KANSAS AGRIBUSINESS RETAILERS ASSOCIATION
KANSAS AGRI BUSINESS EXPO
An Expo to Remember After nearly a year of tireless planning and preparation, the 2017 Kansas Agri Business Expo was held Nov. 15-16 at the Century II Convention Center in Wichita. The theme, “Shooting for Success” turned out to be a reality as vice president of event planning, Shari Bennett, sold the trade show floor to capacity with 159 exhibitors.
Moran and Pat Roberts recorded comedic segments on their working relationship with Tunnell from their offices in Washington, D.C.
Thursday morning’s recognition breakfast featured keynote speaker, Kris “Tanto” Paronto, sponsorship awards, the Tomorrow’s Agribusiness Leaders graduation ceremony and two special surprises This year’s Expo also featured for Tunnell. Kansas Grain and a member-focused retirement Feed Association and Kansas party for longtime president and Agribusiness Retailers Association CEO of Kansas Agribusiness awarded KFSA for its generous Retailers Association, Tom Tunnell. $15,000 sponsorship donation. What is normally the Chairmen’s KARA chairman, Clark Pearson, Reception on Wednesday night awarded Koch Ag & Energy morphed into a Tribute to Tunnell, Solutions with a Founder Sponsor nearly 40 years in the making. trophy for its $7,000 sponsorship KGFA Chairman, Glen Hofbauer (Left), KARA Chairman, Clark Pearson and Tom Tunnell cut the The 260 in attendance Wednesday donation. Dustin Kuntz and Michael ribbon to begin the 2017 Expo. evening all shared laughs and Spade received the “Standing T.A.L. stories of their run-ins with Tunnell. Award” award for outstanding Included in the tribute were speeches Wednesday and Thursday. Mama service and dedication Tomorrow’s from Mike Torrey, Dave Warrington, Lou accomplished feats of strength Agribusiness Leaders. Gary Beachner, Doyle Pearl, Glen like crushing apples with her biceps, Next, as a surprise to Tunnell, Hofbauer and Clark Pearson. Unable rolling frying pans, picking up a association staff played a video in to attend due to prior obligations, sack of potatoes with her tongue which all nine staff members recorded current United States senators, Jerry and shredding phone books with her a personal thank you to their leader. 4
Agribusiness Update
Exhibitors and attendees alike also enjoyed Mama Lou: American Strong Woman’s performances on
bare hands. Mama Lou even called audience members up on stage to a challenge at who could rip a phone book in half faster.