From the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce...
Mark Bitter is well known about town even though he is often described as the “behind-the-scenes guy.” He quietly goes about his business, while helping make things happen.
Mark has played a big role in everything from Final Fridays to the huge downtown-loft project. These ventures, plus many others, are the reason Mark was recognized as Citizen of the Year during the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce annual banquet.
“Despite his many contributions to Great Bend, Mark is kind of an introvert,” said Chris Bitter, his wife. “He certainly doesn’t like the spotlight.”
Well, he got it anyway when he was presented with the special honor in front of hundreds of guests.
Mark and Chris own Kustom Floor Designs, 1515 Main, which opened in 1979; both work at the family business.
When trying to verbalize the reasons Mark deserves the award, one event stands out in the minds of Chris and their daughters, Cori and Lacey - the gathering after the Home for the Holidays Parade.
“Mark said “wouldn’t it be cool to have a party?’” Chris recalled. “That led to families gathering for hot dogs, hot chocolate and carriage rides; and it continues to grow.
“Mark always insists these community events be free of charge. He wants to engage the community and start family traditions. When he sees young people with families come home for the parade, Mark wants to find ways to encourage them to move back. That was the mind-set with Final Fridays too.”
Chris pointed to another illustration of Mark’s drive to help Great Bend prosper. When he is out of town, he checks out the businesses and amenities in other downtowns.
“His mind is always thinking about how we could incorporate something of value. And he has me doing the same thing. When I am out of town, I snap pictures because I know he wants to see what I saw.”
The loft space downtown is a big focus now. “This was a vision of Mark’s when MyTown bought the Zarah Building. When he first saw the space, it was a mess to say the least. But he was undeterred.
“Mark is aware there are negative comments about the lofts but he has a unique ability to shake them off. He constantly looks at the positives and always says that challenges and problems are opportunities.
“People don’t have any idea about the hours and hours of research that go into a project like this. He continues to learn and knows it will work.”
Bitter’s daughters
Cori and Lacey didn’t have a difficult time elaborating on the extent of their dad’s commitment to Great Bend.
“He doesn’t just talk,” Lacey said. “He figures out solutions; he wants to find ways to fuel the business community. But it’s not just that. He also is concerned about the quality-of-life aspects of Great Bend.”
During his research on the lofts, Mark has zeroed in on municipal codes, demographics and the availability of grant funds. “You cannot imagine what has gone into this,” Lacey commented.
Cori, who is the painter and finisher at Kustom Floor, noted that her dad mentors so many people in all walks of life.
“Again, it’s not just the business side of things. He also mentors about personal development and leadership, while encouraging others to be their best. He wants his neighbors to lead meaningful lives.
“What really stands out is that Dad has helped other contractors get their licenses even though they will be our competition. He looks at this as building for generations to come.”
Cori and Lacey’s brother, Klint, now works for the family business too.
Other insights
Sara Arnberger, president of Great Bend Economic Development, mentioned four words that come to mind when she thinks about Mark: inspiration, passion, perseverance and community.
“From the moment I met Mark, his innovative ideas and unwavering commitment to our community have propelled me to new heights,” Arnberger said. “Engaging in conversation with Mark infuses one with empowerment and optimism for our collective future.
“Mark’s tireless efforts laid the groundwork for Great Bend’s prosperity, fostering the success of numerous events, projects and businesses. His enduring faith in our community, even during times of slow progress, serves as a beacon of resilience and hope. His contagious enthusiasm inspires me daily, and enriches the fabric of Great Bend.”
Sheryl Cheely, MyTown board member, echoed some of Arnberger’s comments and mentioned Mark’s “love of Great Bend. He quietly raises money and is open to discussions about how to make our town better.
“During the last 15 years, Mark has helped make MyTown work, with many contributions to Final Fridays and the after-parade party. He also worked with me to bring the Dolly Trolley to Great Bend. Mark is a very good businessman who has his employees’ respect and an eye for making things look beautiful.”
ABOUT THE GREAT BEND CHAMBER OF COMMERCE CITIZEN OF THE YEAR AWARD
The Great Bend Chamber of Commerce annually recognizes outstanding service by an individual who contributes to the quality of life within the community of Great Bend. This award recognizes an individual who has given their time, talent, energy, and shown outstanding service to the community and members of the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce, or persons who have excelled in their chosen profession giving of their time and talent to enhance the culture and work environment around them.
Previous Citizen of The Year Recipients
2022 Scott Donovan
2021 Dr. Perry Smith
2020 Randy Smith
2019 Mike Johnson
2018 Barry Bowers
2017 Mark Mingenback
2016 Dan Bonine
2015 Jim Johnson
2014 Jan Westfall
2013 Roger Murphy
2012 Rick Ball
2011 Glen Opie
2010 Wally Straub
2009 Bob Dema
2008 Sheryl Cheely
2007 Bob Parrish
2006 Bill Berryman
2005 Terry & MelEasa Stueder
2004 Ron Koelsch
2003 Danny Biggs
2002 Jean Cavanaugh
2001 Orville Huss
2000 Mark Calcara
1999 LeRoy Dringmann
1998 Don Whelan