Seidler Applauds Chamber's 1999 Efforts

It was a night of reflection as over 300 Chamber members
and guests celebrated a year of much hard work and many successes at the 81st Annual Meeting of the Manhattan Area
Chamber of Commerce.

In a review of the prior year’s events and accomplishments, Rich Seidler, 1999 Chairman of the Board, applauded the efforts
of business and community leaders for many successes. Particular note was given to the announcement of over 50 new
businesses, 1,300 new jobs and capital investment of more than $61 million, advocacy, expanded member services and
work on the Tallgrass Prairie Interpretive Center.

Those in attendance were also treated to a video production recognizing a "Century of Progress".

Winners of the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce "Lud Fiser Citizen of the Year" and "Volunteer of the Year" were
announced.
Recognized for his many years of community service and dedication to Manhattan, Richard Hayter, Kansas State University,
was awarded the "Lud
Fiser Citizen of the Year" award for 1999. Hayter, former Mayor of Manhattan, currently serves on the Board of Directors
of the Chamber and is Chairperson of the Public Affairs Committee.

The "Lud Fiser Citizen of the Year" award recognizes individuals who have made outstanding and repeated contributions to
the progress of our community over several years. Originally started around 1967, recipients have been recognized for their
contributions to business, Kansas State
University, Fort Riley, public service and general volunteerism. In 1990, the award was renamed to honor the late Lud Fiser.
Fiser served Manhattan as a public school educator, football coach at both the high school and university levels, and active
leader of dozens of youth and adult projects
over his lifetime. He served as CEO of the Chamber for 27 years.

In addition, Gerald Sprong, First Savings Bank, received the "Volunteer of the Year" award for his dedication to the
Chamber throughout 1999. Sprong served as Chairman of the Economic Development Committee from 1997 to 1999 and
was also a member the Board of Directors during that time.

The "Volunteer of the Year" award originated in 1990 to express appreciation for the hard work and dedication given to the
organization by a Chamber member.

Shirley Baker, PBC, Inc., is now serving as Chair, 2000 Board of Directors.