Community Effort Takes Aim: New Archery Range Opens at Camp Chippewa
Last week, Camp Chippewa and the Ottawa Cyclones Archery Team celebrated a momentous occasion for the camp and their archery club, as they held a ribbon-cutting for their newly unveiled range (pictures here). This effort was spearheaded by coach and archery advocate Jarod Franks, in conjunction with Camp Chippewa Director James Rickner. Ten years ago, they both dreamed of a space where their team could train and the public could take part in. This past week, that dream became a reality! Through dozens of corporate sponsors, in-kind gifts from local companies, and the help of Kansas Wildlife and Parks, this stunning outdoor archery facility now stands. When talking with the KWP representative, he shared that this facility is top-notch, and any community would be jealous of such an amenity. He also shared that when working with other communities on prospective archery projects, he'll be using this space as a template―what a fantastic compliment! If you have a youth interested in learning more about their programs, I’m sure Jarod would love to connect with them (Jarod's email here). If you’re interested in shooting at the range yourself, check out how to reserve a time here (view Camp Chippewa’s reservation portal here).
Celebrating Our Local Chamber
Makayla will testify that I enjoy the random “national holidays” that exist. Things like National Sausage Pizza Day (October 11th), National Dessert Day (October 14th), or National Moldy Cheese Day (October 9th). Those national days aren’t all winners (moldy cheese being a good example), and they rarely change my behavior or the activities I engage in―but I think they’re fun! With that being said, every October 15th, there is National Support Your Local Chamber of Commerce Day. We might be a bit biased in our office, but that seems like one worth celebrating! With the help of Mayor Emily Allen, Ottawa City Commissioners, and City staff, we had an official proclamation this year at the City Commission meeting (read the proclamation here). Thankfully, we feel the support of our members and community more than just one day a year. Our Chamber has a robust history, with roots over a hundred years old. I take great pride in leading our local Chamber, but I know wholeheartedly that the work we do wouldn’t be possible without the immense support of so many. Thank you to those who engage in our programs, take part in our events, and financially support the mission of our organization!
Ottawa’s Tree-mendous Efforts Take Root
The Chamber wasn’t the only group receiving a proclamation this Wednesday. The Willow Domestic Violence Center received a proclamation (as October is Domestic Violence Month), and City of Ottawa Parks Department Superintendent Greg Morrow also received a proclamation regarding Arbor Day. Recognizing Arbor Day was a timely proclamation, as the City of Ottawa also welcomed State Forester Blaine Stroble to discuss their recent findings following the city’s recent tree inventory. This process involved documenting a whopping 6,225 publicly located trees within rights-of-way, parks, and other public spaces! The extent of this report blew me away. If trees pique your interest, check out the full report here (click here for that).
In observance of Arbor Day, and to maintain our status as a Tree City USA, the City Public Works Department planted a new tree in Forest Park yesterday (check that out here). Just east of the dog park sits a new redbud tree. This tree has the potential to grow and provide both shade and aesthetic charm to this area of the park. This isn’t the only new tree planted in Forest Park recently, and it won’t be the last. The City of Ottawa recently received a grant from the Kansas Forestry Service for $97,430. These funds will help do two things: help safely remove trees in poor condition and plant two trees for every one removed. By using the data from the previously mentioned tree inventory, Public Works will begin utilizing these funds to start the tree replacement process in early 2026. Big thanks to City Clerk Melissa Scherman and the Public Works Department for applying for and receiving this grant that will positively impact our public spaces!
Alumni Connect with OU Freshmen
Directly following the proclamations at the City of Ottawa, I headed to Ottawa University as I was invited to speak on a panel for the Freshman Seminar class (pictures here). The panel was made up of six alumni, all friendly faces I’ve had the pleasure of meeting, including two who had overlapping years with me. The six of us shared our journeys from freshman year to where we are now, hoping to provide perspective as they move toward the second half of this semester. This was paired with advice and fun stories. I don’t think there was anything particularly groundbreaking shared that morning. Unfortunately, we don't have all the secrets to life or school... But more than anything, I hope we promoted the idea that life and school are better when you lean on and engage with peers and staff.
2025 General Candidates Forum
This Wednesday evening, the Chamber’s Legislative Action Committee hosted the 2025 General Candidates Forum for USD290 Board and City Commission candidates. This includes four candidates running for three, 4-year positions for USD290 and five candidates running for three open positions for the City Commission. The top two vote-receiving City Commission candidates win 4 year terms, while the third-place vote getter receives a two-year term. You can view all nine of these candidates, their bios, and a recording of the forum on the Chamber’s website (view that here).
A special thanks to the City of Ottawa, which allowed us to use the City Commission Chambers and their technology (along with their IT Director, Paul Sommer) for this event. There is a stark difference when technology-savvy individuals run these recordings versus when Ryland is in charge. Not only is the audio clear as day, but the video quality and angles are incredibly professional. Even if you’re not interested in the forum, admiring the new commission chambers and Paul’s A/V work is worth tuning into!
Candidates from both races answered eight or more questions that were submitted ahead of time or from the crowd that night. Questions about their roles, specific challenges, collaboration with others on their respective boards, and partnerships with the community were some of the general ideas discussed. There was standing room only at the event on Wednesday night, as we had an overflow of folks in the hallway just outside the chambers (picture here). Along with the 60+ in person, we’ve had hundreds tune in online and stream the live recording. If you know someone interested in learning more about the candidates on the upcoming ballot, shoot them over to the Candidate Forum live stream (view that here)!
Understanding the One-Cent Sales Tax Ballot Question
One of the questions posed to the City Commission candidates Wednesday evening was their thoughts on the additional ballot item for city residents regarding the one-cent (two ½ cents) sales tax question. That question can be viewed here (view that verbiage here). There was resounding support for this question from candidates, highlighting its usefulness as a tool to curb the rise of property taxes. It was shared that this 1-cent sales tax has held down our property taxes by 13.87 mills, amounting to a $30.06 million reduction over the last 10 years. It was also stated that 30% of all sales tax collected came from outside of city limits. Because this tax burden is shared with visitors and residents alike, it is a definite relief for those who live and own property in Ottawa.
It’s important to note that this is not a new tax, but would replace the already existing one-cent tax that is currently in place and sunsetting in 2026. Several uses are being discussed with these monies, including infrastructure, public safety, parks/pool, and power enhancements. Ottawa citizens voiced their concern about these areas in the most recent survey done by the City (view that survey here). If you’d like to see more about this ballot topic, view the mailer citizens received recently here (view that mailer here). If you're interested in chatting with City staff about the topic, view an upcoming open-house invite here (view that upcoming event here). Like every election, this November 4th will be important for the future of our community. As we look for leaders to support our schools, our city, and how we maintain the services we all desire through this sales tax question. Make sure to go vote before or on November 4th!
Suttons Jewelry Marks 75 Years of Service
Ottawa’s local jeweler, Suttons Jewelry, threw a party and invited Chamber members to celebrate with them this morning (photos here). This family business can proudly say that they have been in operation for 75 years. An absolutely massive accomplishment! At this morning’s Chamber Coffee, Phil Sutton shared that his father’s hobby of fixing watches quickly turned into a viable business. As time went on, services were expanded until it became a full jewelry store and repair. Phil grew up around the store, but he didn’t originally think he'd be co-owner/operator, let alone for 30 years like he and Cathy have. But when things are meant to be, they fall into place so easily.
Lionel and Betty ended up running the store for 45 years and Phil and Cathy have run the show for the last 30 years. When asked about how you run a family business for as long as they have, he shared that, much like marriage, it involves staying in your lane (which received quite a few laughs). Cathy has long been the business-minded and operations manager. Phil shared that he enjoys staying on the workbench, working with his hands. I interpreted this wise response as, “happy wife, happy life!” Along with the give and take of working with your spouse, you also need to have an open mind when the next generation comes and works alongside you. Ian and Lindsay Sutton, Phil and Cathy’s son and daughter-in-law, have spent the last handful of years in the family business. Much like Phil, Ian didn’t think the jewelry business was for him. But as time has shown, he also finds a lot of joy in this line of work―it runs in the family! Ian brings a new perspective to the jeweler's bench, which Phil said might not look exactly how he would do things, but he’s excited to see his son make this trade his own.
75 years of success does not happen by accident. Cathy shared that she owes much of their success to the fantastic employees they’ve had through the years, as well as their committed customers. I think anyone who has utilized Suttons Jewelry know that when you walk through those doors, you’re going to be taken care of. I personally have been a benefactor of this hospitality. From beginning to end, I knew I was in good hands! Not only did I get exceptional service, I know as a fact that I got a better deal than if I were to go through a big box store.
Talking about deals, to celebrate 75 years, they’ve been rolling out deals over the last few weeks and will continue to do so through the end of the month (check those out here). Along with great savings, they’re also having weekly raffles that lead up to a grand prize raffle at the end of the month. Not that you need an excuse to stop by their store at 213 S Main, now you can’t afford not to!
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If you’re a craft brew enjoyer like myself, make sure to snag some tickets to the Ottawa Memorial Auditorium event Saturday evening, Taps and Tunes (click here for a link). Makayla and I have loved the last couple of years we attended and would recommend it to anyone hoping for a memorable Saturday night. Talk to you soon,
Ryland Miller
President/CEO
Ottawa Area Chamber of Commerce
ryland@ottawakansas.org
785-242-1000
