Ames business owners met at Prairie Moon Winery Monday evening to get a closer look at how two local institutions can help them attract visitors and special events.

The Ames Convention and Visitors Bureau's "membership and marketing showcase" was a first-of-its kind event, according to Julie Weeks, executive director.

Weeks said the meeting was organized to let members know about the advertising, promotion and marketing services available to them.

To do that, Weeks said the sponsors wanted to draw the members' attention to some "hidden assets," including:

* The unique relationship between the bureau and the Iowa State University office of Conference Planning and Management.

"Together, we serve as a one-stop resource for events and conferences," Weeks said.

* The bureau calendar, which appears every six months and "gives a complete list of major events" for members to use, Weeks said.

* "CYte Visits," which brings Cy, the ISU mascot, to a member business and offers to create a 60-second Web-based commercial for the business, produced by Ames-based B&G Productions.

The bureau works in concert with the ISU Conference Planning and Management Office. Staff member Jody Larson said her office helps coordinate events from start to finish.

The bureau's relationship with ISU has produced success stories such as the Special Olympics USA National Games and the U.S. Odyssey of the Mind championship competition, according to Julie Kieffer, manager of the ISU office.

Bob Zientara can be reached at (515) 663-6961 or rzientara@amestrib.com.