As we have been telling you, Becky Blake, Director of Travel and Tourism Division, with the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism spoke at the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce Membership Luncheon today.

We caught up with her after her speech and talked about the importance of tourism. Although the marketing budget for promoting Kansas was cut, they still are able to promote the state throughout the Midwest.

Now, most people don’t think of Kansas as a tourist destination such as the coast or Hawaii, or the gulf coast. Blake admits that, but says some see Kansas as a unique destination. She says people that may travel a lot and have seen the coast, the mountains and other destinations may now want to try something different, and adds Kansas has different ideas with out western heritage.

She also agreed that Kansas doesn’t always get portrayed in a good light in movies and on television, but says those who visit Kansas are pleasantly surprised. She says she would hope everyone would visit Kansas at least once. She say those who come from out of the country are especially taken back by the beauty and the kindness of the Kansas people.

Before Blake moved to her state position, she worked at the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce & Convention & Visitors Bureau. Since becoming Director of Tourism for the State of Kansas, Blake has led the development of several initiatives including the Flint Hills tourism initiative, nature based tourism initiative, and has expanded the marketing program through innovative collaborative partnerships.

She also mentioned Hutchinson as a unique destination with the Kansas Cosmosphere and the Underground Salt Museum. She says she works closely with Hutchinson officials on promoting this area of the state. And, she’s impressed with what the local Convention Visitors Bureau has done to promote Hutchinson and Reno County.