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Thank you

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2551 NW Button Rd, Topeka, KS 66618 • (785) 246-2295 www.TRUSTKENDALL.com november/december 2020

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It takes true courage to leave behind a career you have spent your life building to pursue a new challenge.

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MAG A TOPEKA’S TOP 20 UNDER ZINE40 Meet this year’s group of young leaders.

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FROM THE EDITOR

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Bring on 2021!

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PUBLISHER Tara Dimick

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Lisa Loewen

CREATIVE DIRECTOR MA& DESIGNER Janet FaustG AZ

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MANAGING PARTNER & SALES DIRECTOR Braden Dimick braden@tkmagazine.com 785.438.7773 MARKETING ASSISTANT Hope Dimick M

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As we near the end of 2020, I hear a lot of people saying, “I can’t wait for 2020 to be over,” or “this was the worst MAGWhile I agree that 2020 dealt year ever.” A hand, INEit wasn’t all bad. us a pretty lousyZ Personally, I found myself spending more time with my family. My college-aged kids moved back home, making our house almost full again. Nothing beats the sounds of laughter M coming from the kitchen as your 22-yearAGA ZIand old daughter NE19-year-old son whip up some delicious Coq au vin; or the giggles as your 15-year-old daughter tries to teach her dad how to do a TikTok; or the raspberries that your new grandson has learned to blow through MAGspit bubbles. AZIN Lisa Loewen Collectively, we have all focused our E Editor-In-Chief priorities, made sacrifices for the ones TK Business Magazine we love and learned to appreciate what we have. Most of all, we have a greater understanding of the importance of supporting those around us. MAG AZIN In the last few issues of TK, we haveEshared some amazing stories of people coming together to take care of each other in this difficult period. Whether it was businesses working to help employees navigate staying at home with their children, customers MAG AZIN continuing to support local businesses E while their doors had to be shuttered, or people giving a hand to someone who has been knocked down, the generosity in our community has been pretty darn incredible. As for those of us at TK, we MAG want to say thank you for supporting AZIN us as well. When we had to switch our E delivery method from magazine rack to mail, you not only stuck with us but also encouraged us with your positive feedback. We have received more comments and letters telling us about MAG articles you liked and ideas for future AZIN stories this year than ever before. So, E thank you for keeping us energized and positive.

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COVER PHOTOGRAPHER Emma Highfill

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lisa Brown MABen Broxterman GA ZINEgan Samantha E Lindsay Freeman Miranda Ericsson Kim Gronniger Lisa Loewen Niki Maloney Alissa Menke MAG Enedina Miles AZKathy INEWebber

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Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not always easy to quit MAG AZIN your day job. Micro-businesses E are a way to go into business while still caring for a family, going to school, or working full time. These business owners not only MAG strive to get their own Aproducts ZINE to market but also collaborate with other businesses and connect to their community in so many ways. By working together, microMAG businesses boost in Aeach ZINother E the community, so that everyone succeeds.

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New address, same Foulston. Foulston Siefkin LLP’s office is now at

822 S. Kansas Avenue, Suite 200 just three blocks south of our previous location. As a longtime Topeka firm, we’re very pleased to remain in the downtown area and move into a beautifully renovated 120-year-old building. Our phone numbers and email addresses have not changed, and we remain ready to provide counsel and assistance, as always.

OFFERING THE BEST OF TOPEKA

We’re proud of the variety of tenants who call Fairlawn Plaza home. We encourage you to shop local this season and find unique, one-of-a-kind gifts or decor that will make your holiday celebrations special.

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MARK REZAC Jeremy L. Graber jgraber@foulston.com

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Agent | Partner 785.228.5308 www.kscommercial.com november/december 2020

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“Every detail is important, and customer satisfaction is huge. We’re a part of this community and it’s important to me that we M A deliver a quality product.” G AZIN

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—Elaine DeMeo Owner Analog Candles

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Analog Candles are all about subtle but rich scent, quality and value. These all-natural candles are 100% soy, with no paraffin MAG 9-ounce, handor toxins. Each AZ N E poured candle burns Ifor about 35-40 hours, and the scents are natural, and not overpowering, but will fill a room with fragrance. The line-up includes staple scents that are always available, MAG such as lavender and AZbut wild vanilla, INalso includes scents to suit the E season and special offerings. analogcandles.com

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The idea for Analog Candles came to Elaine and Jon DeMeo on a date night. The two discussed a number of possibilities for Elaine to do some work from home, and on the drive back from their relaxing evening, Jon suggested candles. “I had been talking about learning to make candles, and it seemed like a good opportunity to learn something new and share it with others,” Elaine said. “Candles can help people’s homes smell nice and be inviting, and it gave me an outlet for creativity and warmth.” ANALOG MOMENT Elaine decided on the name Analog because

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AGA she loves how candles can ZINE“I know it seems like create a moment, a timeI could have just whipped out from our busy, digital this out in no time,” lives. She wanted to bring Elaine said, “but it was people back to the analog about a year of research and encourage face-to-face and preparation, and a conversations.M ForAElaine, lot of trial and error. As G the work of blending AZIN I worked, I put together E scents and pouring a book of recipes and the candles is also an analog results of my experiments.” moment, an opportunity Her favorite part of to use her experience and the process is the creation skills to create something of new scent blends. Mher AGhands. lovely with “Every scent tells AZIN Of course, learning a story for me. Each E how to make candles and scent marks something run a business took hard in my life. Wild vanilla, work, too. Elaine wanted for example, is about to make quality candles how having a family and that her customers would kids might seem pretty MAG so she went truly love, vanilla, but it’s a wild ride AZIN E She into research mode. sometimes, too.” learned all she could about Elaine honed her sourcing ingredients, technique for making candle-making techniques a candle that will burn and scents. evenly and long. Her

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Analog Candles start with good jars, high-quality wicks, all natural ingredients and a two-step pouring process to ensure a high-standard product.

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candles are poured MAGin a twoAZ stage process, with 12 hours INE of hardening between layers. Her special candles, such as the Whirlybird Espresso, can sometimes take up to four pours to get right. “Every detail is important, MAG A and customer satisfaction ZINE is huge,” Elaine said. “We’re a part of this community and it’s important to me that we deliver a quality product.” Fortunately, Analog Candles had a big head start

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in marketing the candles once they were ready to launch, with Jon DeMeo as part of the team. As the owner of Top City Creative, a local design, video and marketing company, Jon knows branding and social media. Elaine and Jon worked together on the design and marketing plan. “We had a lot of conversations at night after the boys were in bed,” Elaine said.

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collaborated with Analog to MICRO-BUSINESS FLEXIBILITY create an espresso scented Elaine loves that a MAG with real candle, speckled micro-business, run from AZIN coffee that was roasted her own home, allows E here in Topeka. Analog her the flexibility to work also worked with a local around her family’s schedule artist to create a label for and to take things at a their Topeka Blend Candle. slower pace. TheM design includes many “We didn’t want to Aimportant GAZ to our places grow the business too fast or INE community, such as the say yes to everything right Capitol Building, the Brown away,” Elaine said. “It is hard v. Board National Historic to say no at times, but we’ve Site, and the Topeka and taken it slow and easy and Shawnee County Public seen our sales continue to M Library. grow.” AGA ZINand Elaine Analog Candles E Jon are open to more opportunities to officially began in March of work with small businesses. 2018. Elaine had chosen to “Whatever doors open make a candle that would up, we’re willing to walk be small enough to sit on a through, ” Elaine said. “We windowsill. She committed MAG all benefit to getting all of the details AZIN when we spend E businesses and with small right, including good jars when we support each and strong, high-quality other. ” wicks, set straight in the candle. She used all natural INSPIRING & GIVING ingredients, keeping a high M Elaine has plans to standard for the sake ofAG A Z make I her family as well as her NE city-inspired candles featuring a local artist customers. from other Kansas cities. “I didn’t want a home She would also love to do filled with chemicals,” more fundraising for the DeMeo said. “I was making community by making these candles in my kitchen, M A G custom labels for groups or around my own kids. AZ I N E special events. Currently, she I wouldn’t want to sell donates 10% of her profits to anything that I wouldn’t use local charities, but she’d like in my own home.” to do more. On down the line, she also hopes to invest CONNECTING WITH OTHERS in helping other microAnalog partnered MAhas G businesses get started. with other businesses AZINin E “I would love to invest Topeka in wonderful ways. in others in the future,” Diane Horn of Made Maker Elaine said. “I’m so grateful Pottery designed an 18oz for all of the support and candle jar that can be refilled advice that I’ve received, and with any of Analog’s candles. I would love to give back.” Blue MJazz Coffee Roasters

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LOCAL Greater Topeka

Partnership

Entrepreneurial & Minority Business Development A GO Topeka Program

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Anton Bugg, owner of Uncle Sunny’s Food and Catering, is expanding his line-up of BBQ sauces and enhancing his website to promote online sales.

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Uncle Sunny’s Special Blend BBQ Sauce is where it all started. Its flavor is sweet like a traditional Kansas City flavored sauce layered with brown sugar and MAG molasses added a tanginess A with INE then to perk up yourZtastebuds a nice touch of heat to finish the flavors. This is a versatile sauce, good on burgers, brats, brisket, chicken and everything pork. unclesunnysbbq.com

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ANYTHING BBQ Anton Bugg has had a passion for all things BBQ since his childhood. “It’s always been a part of my life,” Bugg said. “My dad would bring home Grover’s when I was a kid, and that was my favorite treat. In my high school yearbook, I said that anything BBQ was my favorite.” Uncle Sunny’s Food and Catering began with Bugg’s love for smoking meats and creating delicious BBQ recipes. Over time, the hobby blossomed into a business that honors his family. Bugg credits his mom

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with inspiring his love ofAZINE cooking, and she is still his biggest kitchen inspiration. “For two years I was Bugg named the business in my backyard every after his father, whose weekend, working to create smile is so bright that his and perfect that first sauce,” MAGSunny. nickname is Uncle Bugg said. “On July 4 of AZIN The company slogan is a E 2009, I grilled up some quote from his daughter, meats and served the food who was 4 years old when with my sauce. After the she first tried her dad’s meal, my friends asked for sauce: “It’s dang good!” containers to take some Bugg originally home. That’s when I knew M G launchedAUncle that I had it right. That’s AZSunny’s INE in 2010, making a name why I called it the “special for himself quickly with blend” because it will his homemade, signature always be special to me as sauces. He spent two years the first sauce that was a creating his first sauce, real success.” which In 2010, Bugg brought MAGis his personal favorite.AZIN his sauce to market locally.

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Immediately, he began selling out of product, and word of mouth grew from week to week. MAG ZINE “My trainingAground was going to the Downtown Topeka Farmers Market,” Bugg said. “The first weekend I brought two cases and I sold out by 10 a.m. I tookMfour the next week AGcases AZIN and it was gone by 10 a.m. I E feel like if you can make it at the Farmers Market, against so many other great options for customer dollars, that proves something.” After that, Bugg started experimenting with other

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give up and I refuse to fail. My setback has motivated my comeback. I’m still taking Mmy AGparents care of AZINas they fight their illnesses, but E I’m going to use their strength to inspire me and motivate me. I have to give credit to my fiancé, too, because she’s really supported my dream M AGA me to try again.” and pushed ZIN Bugg’s planEfor success includes online sales as well as continuing to expand his line-up of sauces. Currently, Uncle Sunny’s has eight MAG varieties, and Bugg is at work A IN free sauce. He is on aZsugar E also offering pick-up within 24 hours for local orders.

flavors. He won some awards, placed sauce on the shelves of local stores such as Hy-Vee and Herman’s Meat & Smokehouse, and he was featured in local magazines and on television. It was hard to keep up with demand. SETBACK TO COMEBACK Then tragedy struck his family, when his mom was diagnosed with cancer and his father was diagnosed with dementia, both within a short period of time. “I stopped everything and became a caretaker for both parents,” Bugg

LOCAL COLLABORATION Bugg also believes in the MAG importance of collaborating AZIN withEother local businesses. “It’s important for local Currently, there are eight businesses to support each varieties of BBQ sauces in other,” Bugg said. “My labels the Uncle Sunny’s lineare made at Capital Label, up with a sugar free MAsauce I get my t-shirts printed G AZ on its way. INEat Germdizzle’s Custom Tees, and A. Lohrbach Photography has taken my said. “Family is the most photos. In the future, I plan important thing, so it’s what on doing some work with I needed to do.” Mr. Topeka, S.J. Hazim, and Over the eight years M A his marketing business.” G since then, Bugg tried AZtoIN E Bugg would love to grow make business comebacks, Uncle Sunny’s enough that but there just wasn’t enough he can create local jobs. He time to do Uncle Sunny’s wants to ship sauces all over BBQ right. Finally, in 2020, the world and is finalizing Bugg feels in a good place plans for a mobile food to make of it again, and MaAgo G business. he’s confidentAthat this time ZIN E his “I am always reading he will succeed in making and researching, trying to dream come true. become bigger and better,” “I got some used Bugg said. “Topeka has equipment, put some time always supported me, and I and effort into a website, appreciate that. I want to be updated MAG my labels and went A able to give back. ” to work,” Bugg ZINsaid. “I won’t

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Made MakerM pottery features A which a distinctive styleG AZIN E intentionally delivers elements of truth and beauty in a clear and simple way. A neutral color palette keeps things cohesive and the added surprises of maker’s marks, glaze drops, fingerprints and other irregularities uniquely MAG AZIspecial. make these pieces N

etsy.com/shop/MadeMakerPottery

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E PASSION FOR POTTERY Diane Horn makes pottery because it is what she was called to do. Looking at her stunning pieces, it’s clear that Horn has a gift for creating objects that are beautiful, functional and unique. “I make one-of-akind pottery, handcrafted with loving creativity, to add beauty and truth to people’s lives and homes,” Horn said. “I make my pottery the slow, oldfashioned way, taking my time with each piece and praying for the eventual owners.” Made Maker became a business in September of 2018, but Horn’s journey with pottery began when she was a college student at Florida State University, where she was born and raised.

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AZIN “I make my pottery the G slow, E old-fashioned way, taking my time with each piece and praying for the eventual owners.” —Diane Horn MAG Owner A Maker INE MadeZ

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GAZ BUSINESS PASSION TURNED INE A friend suggested that Horn try hosting a booth at Cider Days, which led to serious thoughts about starting Ma A business GA out of pottery. INE The firstZstep was just Photo by EMMA HIGHFILL making more pieces, developing a body of work with a distinctive style. “I wanted the look and branding of my MAG work to align with those “I took a wheel AZIN Eof truth and elements throwing class and fell in beauty in a clear and love,” Horn said. simple way, so I chose to Horn spent several stick with a neutral color years in Florida, helping palette, which keeps my minister to college aesthetic cohesive,” Horn students with her husband MAG and studying under her AZIsaid. NE Horn’s pieces are mentor, Randy Glotfelty, indeed simple, yet of Jen-Ken Kilns. About 10 beautiful. She likes to years ago, Horn’s husband preserve maker’s marks, accepted a pastor position glaze drips, fingerprints, at a church in Topeka. MAGof “In the throes AZIN and other irregularities, E because they are part of the baby/toddler years, what makes the pieces I temporarily set aside special and unique. trying to make a business “I can try to make of my pottery,” Horn two things just alike, but said. “I’ve also been there is definitely a onehomeschooling for the MAG of-a-kind nature to each, last eight years, Awhich ZINE and people value that. still remains my highest My prayer is that at least calling and my full-time every once in a while these job. About two years ago, marks will remind the user my youngest was entering to reflect on the fact that preschool, and I began to they are also special and notice a little glimmer of MAG unique,” Horn said. AZ margin for making.”

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Next, Horn had to work. Then she took the leap MA GAZ and signed up for her first come up with a name for INE her business. She wanted event. something that would help “When I got to Cider people understand the Days and set up my booth, I purpose behind her work. was amazed at the response,” After brainstorming a list of she said. “So many of our options that M didn’t quite fit, friends and church family AGA Zthe her husband suggested INE showed up in support. Those name Made Maker, and it just first few shows I did helped felt right. me to establish a presence “The name reminds us here in Topeka.” that we have all been made with a purpose, with truth and THE POWER OF SOCIAL MEDIA beautyM ingrained Social media also played AG in us,” Horn ZINIEam said. “When IA create, a big role in building a imitating the creativity of God following for Made Maker. who made me.” Horn continued to share Horn began sharing pictures of her work with pictures of her work on good lighting and a neutral various social media platforms backdrop, and friends shared to get feedback and inspire her posts, bringing more other makers to share their followers to her page.

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Every Made Maker piece of pottery is made by hand so no two pieces are exactly alike.

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AZIN “I did not anticipate feels like a sister company, E the amazing community with a similar customer base. supporters that have shared We bounce ideas around and my work on their own social encourage each other. We do media platforms,” Horn a combo piece together—my said. “It has really been all lidded jar with their amazing MAG into them. their doing! Community candles poured AZIN E cheerleaders like Lesleigh Kevin Conard at Blue Jazz Hodam, Miranda ChavezCoffee Roasters helped me to Hazim, Caroline Bivens, develop my pour-over coffee Tammy Thiessen, Alison pot. Mandy Swift at Beauty Beebe, and so many more. from Ashes has included my They promoted my business pieces MAin some of her gift AZIN Kitchen without me ever asking them baskets.G Cambridge E to, which was such a blessing.” and Bath has featured my 2020 has not slowed work in their new showroom. Made Maker down. Fall And, of course, Ash Boutique through Christmas has been has been amazing to showcase the busiest time for her my work in their beautiful Mnew business, but she also has a Most recently, I’ve AGstore. AZIN waiting list for her popular been collaborating with Jan E Topeka Flag mugs, and she Eitel of Antlers and Acorns. takes commissions from She makes the beautiful customers throughout the handcrafted baskets for my year that keep her busy, as bread stones.” well. One of Horn’s goals M “I had anticipated that AG A forZthe is to pass on INfuture E has learned to upCOVID-19 would be a ‘huge what she pause button,’ as my Dad and-coming makers. So far, would say, but it really didn’t Horn has worked with one slow things down at all for apprentice, and found that the me,” Horn said. “If anything, experience was as much about MAG I think people spending human connection as it was AZIN more time in their homes about E teaching. made them think carefully “Taking on an apprentice about what they want in their is work,” Horn said, “but it’s a homes.” gift, as well, a way to give back in thanks for the gifts we’ve SMALL BUSINESS CONNECTIONS been given.” MAG Horn also collaborates Horn has been creating AZIN with other micro and small E her work in a corner of her businesses, which makes her garage, but she recently feel more connected to her expanded into a newly community. constructed studio with the “Topeka has been so help of her husband and warm andMwelcoming, and I community. The space is still AGA with other a part of her home, but it’s love to collaborate ZINE local businesses and makers,” spacious, and dedicated to Horn said. “Tammy Thiessen pottery. with Thiessen Design Co. was Follow Made Maker one of my earliest supporters, online to enjoy the beauty and I have made several of Horn’s work, and to custom for her amazing see where she takes her MApieces AZINCandles interiors.GAnalog artistry next.

TK Business Magazine

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november/december 2020

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Clad Astra co-owners, Thad Lockard and S.J. Hazim, teamed up to make clothing that would boost community pride.

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Clad Astra began with the goal to raise pride in the Topeka community through great looking, high quality gear with positive vibes. With each sale, Clad Astra M AGAa local organization. supports ZINE New items and styles are added monthly, with designs by featured local artists.

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STATEMENT CLOTHES How do you show your pride in your community? Some of us shout it out, some of us write about it, and some of us clad ourselves in clothes that make a statement. Clad Astra is all about high quality clothing with eye-catching, Topekapositive designs. Coowners S.J. Hazim and Thad Lockard teamed up to make clothing that would boost community pride, just by being worn. “We want to make community-based clothing with positive vibes that we ourselves would wear,” Lockard said. “Not hokey, not a novelty. Fashion forward pieces that will become favorites.”

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Hazim and Lockard merch based around that believe that “repping”M your design,” Lockard said. AGA community with clothing fall of that year, ZINBy E had thought of is a great way to show Lockard that you’re proud, without several business ideas, saying a word. but he hesitated to jump “We wanted to make in with a traditional it easy to promote the business model. In MAG community,” Hazim October, Lockard sent a A said. “There are a lot of ZINEhat that he had designed introverts out there. They to Hazim as a way to need a way to promote thank him. Hazim loved without having to say it the hat and pitched the out loud. You’re seeing idea of working together community pride without to make a clothing MAto GA anyone having sayZthose company a reality. A short INE two months later, Clad words. And when people start showing pride, that Astra launched their first inspires others to get clothing and accessories involved, too.” line with a fashion show of community influencers. SPARKED BY TOPEKA FLAG MAG LockardAsaid idea MAKING THINGS HAPPEN ZINthe E for Clad Astra was sparked “S.J. goes out and by the City of Topeka’s new makes things happen,” flag, in April of 2019. Lockard said. “He’s “I was thinking about willing to take chances. how cool it would be to I’m cautious and slow in have some clothing and my approach, and S.J. is M

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Clad Astra makes it easy to “rep” MAG with clothing the Topeka community AZIN that shows you are proud without E saying a word.

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much more confident. invested and decided that he MHe A kickstarted everything andG AZIN wanted to be a part of seeing E took it to a different level.” his vision fully realized. Hazim’s leap of faith is “I begged him to stay on,” not one that everyone would Hazim said, “I’ll admit it. I take. He planned a fashion knew that I needed him to be show and reached out to a part of this. He came up with models from theMcommunity, the name and the concept, and AGA including Danielle Norwood ZINE I respect his ability and work and Melissa Brunner. ethic. We have two totally “We booked the date and different personalities, and the models, but we had hardly Clad Astra needs both.” any designs at all,” Hazim said. “We had about a month to COHESIVE PARTNERSHIP figure it out. Hazim and Lockard have M”AG AZaIN Hazim also took a good partnership that allows E financial risk. both men to focus on their “I didn’t have a lot of strengths as they grow their savings to invest, so the company. money was going to fall on Lockard is focused and me if we didn’t sell these diligent, willing to put in long clothes, ” Hazim said. “I didn’t nights when it’s necessary to MA G Z or slow me let that stopAme get the work done. He created INE down, though, because I had a the company’s website and feeling that this could work.” keeps it up to date. He has Lockard had originally not run a business before, planned to step back from the but he does have about 10 business after helping to get it years of experience in apparel off of the ground, but he felt purchasing for businesses.

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NE is to everything HazimIdoes a high standard. Hazim loves getting to know people and he has a big network in Topeka, both online and in person. Using social media to promote MAG AZcame the business INE naturally to him. “Before COVID-19, I would often visit people to deliver their orders personally,” Hazim said, “and I MAwould GAZpost pictures on social IWe NEdidn’t really come media. up with a marketing plan so much as Thad adds new product, and then I share it. I This has given him valuable make sure that I post a lot.” insights that softened hisM “S.J. is the director of AGA more better,” Lockard said, learning curve. He was excited ZINE by the opportunity to focus on laughing. “He takes what I do quality over economy. and makes it more better.” “Clad Astra can do things that I’ve wanted to do, nicer EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS ideas that cost more,” Lockard The team has a lot of MAend said. “Premium, high and success to celebrate. Sales have GA worthwhile. This is worth ZINE exceeded expectations, and doing right.” they’ve shipped Clad Astra to The face masks sold other states and even overseas. by Clad Astra are a good Facial masks and hats are example. They are not cheap currently their most popular to produce, but Lockard items. M toG was committed A a quality Hazim and Lockard AZIN E believe that Clad Astra’s product, which meant a bigger investment. community positivity is a “We did not want to model that other communities be in the business of low can follow. quality PPE,” Lockard said. “We can provide a “We wanted to make sure roadmap and help others,” MAG we were meeting [PPE] Hazim said. “We had humble AZthe IN high standards, that it’sEhigh beginnings and started out quality, and we could confirm not knowing if we’d be left where it came from.” holding the bag. Now we’re Lockard says that Hazim giving back to the community brings authenticity and energy and ordering more product to toM the business, and that meet demand.” TK AGA Z

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The Jayhawk Area Council, Boy Scouts of America celebrates its 11th year of awarding MAG“Topeka’s Top 20 Under 40” ZINEprofessionals who to recognizeAyoung are impacting the future of Topeka in a positive way.

This year’s honorees serve, lead, give Mand Take a glimpse into the AGinspire. AZIN lives of theseEyoung leaders.

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Compiled by LISA BROWN, BEN BROXTERMAN, LINDSAY FREEMAN, NIKI MALONEY, ALISSA MENKE, ENEDINA MILES & HOPE DIMICK Photos by EMMA HIGHFILL MA

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www.vaerusevents.com (785) 246-5403 info@vaerusevents.com november/december 2020 TK Business Magazine 27

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Rachel impacts the health of kidsEthroughout Shawnee County and the region. On any given day, you may find her advocating for the needs of kids and families within the hospital, mentoring and training new nurses, or working with the Stormont Vail Foundation’s Children’s Miracle Network team M to identify new ways they can support kids AGA challenges. and families facing medical ZIN Rachel is a member of the E Society of Pediatric Nurses, a Pediatric Advanced Life Support Instructor, and chairs the Stormont Vail Research & Evidence Based Practice Council. She also led the effort to help Stormont Vail become a Certified Safe Sleep Hospital. Rachel’s commitment to the health of kids extends MAG AofZthe beyond the walls INhospital. She is the co-coordinator of the Safe Kids ShawneeECounty coalition and serves on the Healthy Babies workgroup for Heartland Healthy Neighborhoods. As a Certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, she facilitates monthly car seat check lanes to help families travel as safely as possible with their children in the car.

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Age 34 MAG AZIN Manager Pediatrics, E Pediatric Intensive Care, Young Adult Center, & Child Life Stormont Vail Health

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What fictional world would you want to live in? I would live in the wizarding world! I would use my magical powers to clean my house and other tasks and be so much more MAG productive! A

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toward? I am currently working on getting my Master’s degree. I am completing my MBA/MSN dual degree at MidAmerica Nazarene University and will graduate mid ZINE2022. What is the biggest professional goal that you’ve accomplished? What do you love most about I was a non-traditional nursing your work? student and started my career I love the variety. As a pediatric as an Associate Degree Nurse. nurse, I get to experience almost MAG to me to It was really important all of the developmental stages AZIN E further my education. I worked of life, so no two patients are full-time and balanced family ever truly the same. As the while I completed my Bachelor’s manager, I get to work on so of Science in Nursing. It was many different projects with rewarding to persevere through people all throughout the that and obtain my BSN. organization.

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“I knew from an early age the importance of being kind, generous, and supportive.”

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Age 32 Senior Manager, Revenue MAGManagement AZIN BNSF Railway

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Growing up on a farm, Michael learned from an early age how to get things done and continues to use those skills in his everyday life. Michael plays a key role in the modernization of transportation systems for theMrailway, a job which requires him to remove AGAeffective development teams, and barriers, build ZINE communicate effectively to diverse audiences. Michael exemplifies leadership through volunteerism both at work and at home. He coordinates BNSF’s participation in the Nancy Perry Day of Caring, organizes the annual BNSF Golf and plans the Christmas Train effort MTournament, AGAidentify families who need help during the to help ZINE holidays. Outside of work, Michael teaches Junior Achievement classes to 5th graders once a week. He has also volunteered with Big Brothers Big Sisters since 2011. “When I became a part of the Topeka community in 2011, I knew I wanted to do more to get involved.”

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What would we most likely find you doing on the weekend? Spending time outdoors with family and friends.

Who would play you in a movie about your life? Bradley Cooper

What trait do you most attribute AG Who has influencedM you most AZIN your success to? when it comes to how you E I have always been very frugal approach your work? or thrifty. If I were to get money From an early age my family for my birthday as a young kid, taught me the importance of I would save every penny for a faith and hard work. As I continue car or a house purchase in the to grow professionally at BNSF very distant future. This trait has MAG is evolving. Railway, my approach enabled me to not only provide AZIN E While hard work is still important, for my family, but has also helped the feedback I have received has me become successful in the challenged me to accomplish workplace by cutting costs and/or work differently. Leading more increasing revenue. Lastly, this trait and managing less through has enabled me to give back time situational leadership has helped and resources to the church and MAG me empower others community. AZto succeed.

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“Success doesn’t come from effortless perfection, it comes MAG AZIN from believing that E I can always grow, learn more, and get smarter.”

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Age 34 General Counsel League of Kansas Municipalities

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GA Amanda supervisesAthe League’s ZINElegal department and advocates for the interests of Kansas cities at the Kansas legislature and regulatory bodies. This role has allowed her to strengthen cities in Kansas by providing legal guidance to elected and appointed city officials and their staff. MA GAadvocate Amanda is a strong ZINE for mentorship and development. As General Counsel, she restarted the League’s robust law clerk program which has allowed her to expose law students to local government. Amanda is responsible for supervising and mentoring two new attorneys, a paralegal MA G AZ and a law student. She watching them INenjoys E networking skills. develop both their legal and She is also passionate about encouraging and developing female leaders, hoping to start a Women in Leadership Lecture Series in the future. Amanda credits much of her success to a “growth mindset.”

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What’s your most used emoji? The shrug emoji. It seems very appropriate in 2020.

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nasty case of cancer and had to take MAG AZoffIN a year of school. During my year E

off, I realized life was too short to hate what you do every day. I took the LSAT, dropped out of medical school, and the rest is history.

What brings you joy? The small things in life bring me joy. Having a friend bring dinner when I am AGA What frustrates you the most about sick, wearing a bright color to work M when Zthe INworld? I know it will be a rough day, blaring my E favorite song to boost my mood, getting That people seem to have stopped drinks with friends, and anytime I am listening to each other. At our core, we playing golf. Life can be really hard but if really aren’t that different. We need to you only focus on the “big” things, I think stop demonizing each other. Someone you miss the actual living part. can have a different view of what our MAG AZIN State’s future looks like and still be Ea “good Kansan”. If we start with the What led you to this career? I graduated college with a biology premise that we are all working toward degree and actually attended medical the same goal (a better Kansas), and school for a time, but I hated it. I quickly start listening to each other’s why, then realized that becoming a doctor was not compromise can be found. The best for me, but I was too scared to admit I solutions are normally ones that meet M had made a mistake. ThenAI G caught in the middle. AZa

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TK Business Magazine

Architecture. Planning. Interiors. Photo Courtesy of Heartland Drone Company

Topeka Dentistry | Topeka, KS

SUPPORTING A COMMUNITY NEED Drs. Carrie Peterson and Ben Rutherford are now providing expanded services to their patients thanks, in part, to their brand new, state-of-the-art facility in East Topeka! Their newly constructed oral health facility, located just west of 29th and Croco Road in Topeka, now offers additional space to allow for dental implant treatments, same-day crowns and digital dental impressons. Paired with a new brand and a new name, Topeka Dentistry (formerly East Topeka Dental Associates) is well-positioned as an industry leader for decades to come. We were honored to help tell their story through inspiring design and look forward to watching their continued success!

LISTEN. DESIGN. INSPIRE. november/december 2020

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Age 39 Assistant Chief Engineer & Facilities Operations Manager Department of Veterans Affairs Commander 1st of the 161st Field Artillery Battalion Kansas Army National Guard

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What three hashtags describe What characteristic do you you best? value the most in your #DanTheMan coworkers? #OhDannyBoy MAG Honesty. Honesty is the #CitizenSoldier trust. AZfoundation INE to building The cornerstone to a good What’s your go-to breakfast relationship. food? Two pancakes butter and maple What is the most important syrup on top, two scrambled eggs personal attribute that you and ketchup on top, andM two slices bring to your job? AGA of crispy bacon. ZINE Perseverance. I am passionate about what I do, but I really just What’s the best advice you’ve don’t believe in giving up or ever heard? taking the easy no as the final Never ask others to do what you’re answer. I don’t believe “I can’t not willing to do yourself. Lead by do that” is ever an acceptable example. answer. M

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Wearing multiple hats is something that comes naturally to Dan. As the facilities operations manager for Topeka’s Veterans Affairs Medical Center,M heAprides himself on leading GAZ modern medical his team to provide updated, INE facilities that enable top-of-the-line medical care to veterans across Eastern Kansas. That same pride carries over to his role in the Kansas Army National Guard, where he has led efforts ranging from cold weather rescue to flood and wildfire M aid,Aemergency response planning, and G AZ medical assistance toIresidents NE across the state. Dan serves on numerous committees and is an active member of his church. He is the Assistant Scout Master for Pack 3009, planning and leading scout meetings, service projects, and other events.

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E “Topeka has allowed me to have a place for my family to thrive while I give MAG AZIN back to the men and E women who have stopped serving.”

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- Nedra, Pianist, Alabama Football Fan, & Lexington Park Independent Living Resident

At Lexington Park, active seniors enjoy a maintenance -free lifestyle – giving them more time to enjoy their hobbies. For Nedra, that means more time playing her piano, watching Alabama football, and MAG enjoyAinZgIN the company of her neighbors. All our residents have the freedom to focus on what matters E most while our staff provide housekeeping, 3 home -cooked meals each day, social activities, and more. Plus, our residents and their families can rest easy knowing health care is available on our campus – should it ever be needed.

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MAGCall 785-329-4696 AZIN E

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to schedule a tour today.

LEXINGTON PARK INDEPENDENT LIVING

1011 SW COTTONWOOD CT TOPEKA, KS 66604 785.329.4696 LEXINGTONPARKCOMMUNITY.COM november/december 2020 TK Business Magazine

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Age 30 Manager The Brownstone

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Abbey manages The Brownstone, a wedding and event venue in North Topeka, and launched the Milestone Market, a wedding boutique, in March of this year. In both of these roles, Abbey focuses on celebrating MAG the community and AZIN bringing people together. E can bring “Events, especially weddings about many emotions. I pride myself on being the voice of reason and the calm that these families need.” Empathy and connecting with others drive Abbey’sM community involvement. She serves AGthe AZKansas as a mentor for INE State University Entrepreneurship Department as well as teaching a Junior Achievement class at Seaman Middle School. As an entrepreneur she connects with other local business owners through the Topeka Independent Business Association, where she serves as the vice chair, as well as through Limitless: Empowered Women Business Owners.

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Owner and Managing Director The Milestone Market

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Gwho AZ areIN breaking barriers, putting What’s the most spontaneous E themselves out there and truly thing you’ve ever done? trying to make a difference. Every year, my husband and I go on an adventure date with another What characteristic do you think couple. These adventure dates most people notice about you? have been my most spontaneous trips because we always end MAG A I believe that most people notice Zthat INE I am always focused on future up doing activities that push goals, plans and dreams. I am also us outside our comfort zones. dedicated to the work I love and Some example trips include dog the team that works alongside me. sledding, skydiving and rock climbing. What characteristic do you value M most the most in your coworkers? What frustrates you the A G AZ INE I strive to surround myself about the world? with honest and hardworking I believe that the world is full associates. We work in a of brave humans pushing the high energy and fast paced boundaries that have previously environment which means that the been set in society and business. folks working events need a level The world needs a bit more grace, MAG head and a whole lot of passion! kindness and humility forAthose Z

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“You don’t impact Epeople without a true relationship.”

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AgeM 35 AGA Head Boys Basketball ZIN Coach Highland Park HighESchool Topeka Public Schools USD 501

Site Coordinator Communities in Schools

Michael, known as “Coach Mike,” knows that leadership is about relationships. Through Communities in Schools, works with educators and school MAMichael G AZ administrators IN to identify challenges that students faceEin class or at home, and he coordinates educational programming and case management services, and connects with community partners to bring resources to those students. Coach Mike is the reigning Topeka MAG AZ Capital-Journal City Boys Coach of the Year, INE coming off a State Tournament bid in 2020. Michael believes in the life changing power of sports and how those life lessons can bring about growth in the lives of athletes. To Coach Mike, winning basketball games is a by-product of his main goal — helping high school boys become young men.

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What’s a trip that changed you? What goal are you working Last year my family and I took a trip toward? to Montgomery, Alabama to trace Winning a State Championship!!! the historical origins of the Civil I want that so much for our kids, Mstopped AGA Rights Movement. We our school and, most of all, the ZINE Highland Park community. in Little Rock, Arkansas to see Central High School and Memphis, Tennessee to see Lorraine Hotel What do you love most about where MLK was killed. We saw your work? the Dexter Ave. Church that The opportunity to truly make an MLK pastored, the Equal Justice impact on those around me. Every MAG museum, Initiative, the lynching day of my life I wake up with the AZ the Rosa Parks Museum, theINE chance to evoke positive change Civil Rights Memorial Center. It’s in the Topeka community and it something to talk about events pushes me. happening in this world, but to actually see them in person has What is your theme song? left a mark on me I cannot begin Grinding All My Life, M to explain.AG AZ by Nipsey Hussle

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MAG A “I am an ambassador. I ZINE look for positive stories about Topeka and share them far and wide.”

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Age 36 President GO Topeka, Greater Topeka Partnership

MAGthe budget and strategic plan Molly manages AZIN E and monitors for the Greater Topeka Partnership progress toward their goal to help grow a more diverse and strong economy in Shawnee County. She recently led the site selection process for Walmart to choose Topeka for its newest 1 million-square-foot distribution center and added another volunteer position.MAG A ZINworking Molly is constantly to make Topeka and E Shawnee County a better place for all people to live, work and play. She’s the Silver Lake Schools Booster Club Secretary and serves on the board of directors for TARC, Inc. “I love to show people the parts and places of our city that make it unique.”

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If you could only eat one item for every meal for the rest of your life, what would MAG it be? AZIN Steak E If you could only have three apps on your smartphone, which would you pick? Pinterest, Instagram and Sam’s MAG Scan & Go AZ

What’s one thing you’re currently trying to make a habit? Only checking my emails every hour or two.

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What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I love cows. Like, stop on the side of a country road if a calf is near the fence so I can pet it kind of MAG love. AZ

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the most in your coworkers? Flexibility. Our industry changes with the community’s needs and you have to be able to adapt and take on new projects that may be outside your wheelhouse.

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Design Group listened MAG Ato dreams and aspirations and ZINE my helped turn my vision into a reality.”

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- Ashley Carson Owner, ASH Boutique

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sc hw e rd t d e si g n g ro u p sd g a rc h . c o m november/december 2020

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Age 39 Director of Volunteer Engagement United Way of Greater Topeka

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“Help others rise.”

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Jessica brings a strong work ethic and collaborative and strategic spirit to any team she is on. In the past six months, amidst theM COVID-19 AGA pandemic, Jessica ZINthan has helped connect more E 750 volunteers with over 75 agencies in our community to help. Jessica says her most significant leadership accomplishment is “helping others rise.” Whether mentoring and MAstudents helping GAZ at Washburn or working INand with the volunteers E families she meets through her role with the United Way, she takes great pride in elevating others. “Topeka has provided me an opportunity to support others through volunteerism and leadership development and it has provided me a family and a place to call home.”

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What brings you joy? What motivates you? My children’s laughter and reading I tell people that at my core I have them a book. It doesn’t matter how a responsibility to engage and help rough of a day or moment I mightM have AGA and do it well. I will do what I say ZII N had, those two things bring me back will do. I keep my promises, and E to my happy place. It hard to read a if I am late on something, it sort children’s book mad…you should try it. of eats at my soul. I want to help individuals become a better version What is your favorite local business of themselves. in Topeka? I think one place I always call my happy What cartoon character best MA G AZ place is Happy Bassett. It has a good INE represents you? local feel, music, food, people and great Wonder Woman. She is smart and beer all in one place. It is kiddo friendly strong. She doesn’t let others get and dog friendly, and I appreciate that in her way of doing what is right for they partner with many other local others. She seeks justice for those businesses to give back or to provide an who are not being heard. She is opportunity for thoseM businesses someone who will tell it like it is and AGA to be ZINE successful too. then do something about it.

TK Business Magazine

Family Service & Guidance Center congratulates

Alicia Guerrero-Chavez on being named one of Topeka’s “20 Under 40!”

Thank you for making a difference in kids’ lives and throughout our community!

FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS

Happy Holidays! GIFT MADE GIVING EASY

Whiskey / Rum / Tequila / & more 2850 SW Wanamaker Rd • 785.273.8899 4301 SW 21st Street • 785.273.2288 www.devlinsliquor.com november/december 2020

TK Business Magazine

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“For every opportunity I have been given to serve, MAG AZIN work or play, I have E received back joy and fulfillment of helping others tenfold.”

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Age 35 MAG General Manager of Hospitality Services AZ University of Kansas Health System INE St. Francis Campus

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Emily focuses on the wellbeing E of others and leading a team to provide the best patient care, visitor experience and innovation. But hospitality in her workplace MAG is only the beginning AZIN MAGfor this E compassionate, caring A community ZINE member. Emily partnered with the What fictional place would Boys and Girls Club of Topeka you most like to visit? TeenCenter to develop support Hogwarts. Rereading the Harry MAG through education, resources and A Potter books to my kids, I still helpingM hands. She also coordinated ZIN feel E amazed by the details AGA a hygiene drive and the revitalization and wonder. First on my list ZINE of a local foster care placement would be to have a big glass of facility and volunteers as a youth butterbeer. volleyball coach. Through nutrition, customer service, and leading with a What three words would your MAG giving heart, Emily contributes toAthe friends use to describe you? ZI overall health of those served in her NE Open-minded, driven, hospitality services. empathetic.

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What’s the worst job you’ve everMAWhat’s a mistake you made G Z in your career? had, and what did you learn earlyAon INE from it? Not taking my seat at the My worst job was a day job for table when it was offered. a promotional company that I Humbleness and grace are MAinGcollege. I walked worked for important, but remember to AZ E around handing outIN heartburn be bold with your ambitions, medication and sunscreen M AGAclear with your intentions, samples at an Independence and always hold true to your ZIN E Day festival. I learned working moral compass. promotional jobs that you have to be flexible, outgoing, on time and M GAZ easily. notAembarrass

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“I do my best every day to show each child that I come into contact with that I care about them and their well-being.”

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Age 36 Director of the Safe and Secure Schools Unit Kansas State Department of Education

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In his role, John works with each of the 286 Kansas school districts to create MAGfor Kansas and maintain safe environments AZIN children to M learn and grow. As a former E A G AZCounty member of the Jackson INE Sheriff’s office and Prairie Band Potawatomi Tribal Police Department, John served in roles within the school systems as a resource officer. He also served as a member to the M G National Association ofASchool AZResource IN E Officers (NASRO) and the Kansas Juvenile MAG AZIN Officers Association. E our community’s John believes that children are the most important asset and he spends his volunteer time with youth as a referee for M theA Upward Sports program, G leading youth groupsAinZhis INlocal E church or volunteering to share the role foster care plays in a child’s educational journey.

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How did you decide to pursue the career you are in today? I am John Calvert the 6th (we all have different middle names). I was a 2nd/3rd MAGshift police officer whose goal was to be onAaZ SWAT INEteam and a K9 handler. I had a Photos by EMMA HIGHFILL daughter, but I wanted to try for a boy to carry on the name. My wife told me that if we What keeps you young? wanted another baby, I had to get on a shift I was born on leap year and only get that gave her some help. The only 1st shift a birthday every four years. I believe spot open was the School Resource Officer that I am the youngest 20 Under 40 MAG position at Royal Valley School District. I honoree at just 9 years old! Seriously, AZIN stepped I think being able to interact with E into the hallways and enjoyed every second. When the KSDE opened the Safe and students from all over the state is what Secure Schools Unit, I really struggled as to keeps me young. Their world, even for what to do. I was having a positive impact in just a moment, gives me the energy Jackson County schools but I am passionate and confidence to strive to make a about every school student and staff difference. MAG member’s safety. The day before I was offered AZ What advice would you give yourself INE the KSDE position, my daughter (7 at the time), asked me if I loved the kids at Royal 10 years ago? Valley more than her. I said, “of course not, 10 years ago, I was a police officer why would you ask?” She responded that I working 2nd shift, ready to change the MAG spent all of my time with the students. At that world. I would tell myself not to focus AZIN moment on changing the world, but to try and E I knew where God wanted me. And MAG yes, I did get a boy, John Calvert (the 7th!) change one person’s life for the AZbetter.

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Age 38 Executive Vice President Heartland Credit Union Association

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Haley says it is unbelievably gratifying to know she is part of helping credit unionsM inA Kansas G AZ and Missouri thrive. Haley serves INE as a member of the board of the Kansas Cooperative Council, a member of the Political Involvement and Grassroots Committee of the American Association of Credit MAG Union Leagues, and a member AZINof E the Kansas Society of Association Executives and the American Society of Association Executives. Haley serves the community as a member of Junior League of Topeka and on the board of the MAG for the Topeka Library Foundation AZ N E Library. and Shawnee CountyIPublic Haley believes that it is important to invest in your community and that her time and attention to bedrock organizations in our community will leave a lasting impact on generations to come.

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“I believe that a leader finds the right person with the right attitude and skill set for the role and then works to develop them to their full potential.”

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What makes you feel old when you think about it? Watching my children interact with technology and thinking about how different their childhood experiences are from mine makes me feel old. They’ll likely never know the pain of trying to find a quarter to use a payphone or having their brother pick up the landline to interrupt a call with friends.

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What is the biggest professional goal that you’ve accomplished? I’m most proud of the work I did to help create the Heartland Credit UnionM Association. AGA Bringing two INE strong, successfulZassociations together to create a new organization was challenging but taught me a lot. Today, five years later, HCUA is a thriving regional trade association with an active M andAengaged GA membership.

What goal are you still working toward? Professionally, I’m working toward becoming a Certified Association Executive through the American Society of Association Executives. Personally, I hope to hit my reading goal of 80 books in 2020!

ZINE

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Age 34 Special Projects Engineer Topeka Metro

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“I want to contribute to a better Topeka. For me, E that means better access to transportation and sustaining an environment that is family friendly.”

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Through Andy Fry’s work at the Topeka Metro, he’s helped bring accessible and affordable transportation options to the community and supported initiatives to expand services to underservedM areas. led the way AGAndy’s AZIN to securing funding for the purchase E of three electric buses and charging equipment and will be managing the implementation of these new buses into Topeka Metro’s fleet. Outside of work, Andy’s the board Mfor president the Topeka Community AG A IN Cycle project. He’s Z activelyEinvolved in writing grants and making community connections to help keep the program operating. Additionally, he volunteers on the Facilities Committee at First Congregational Church and is a board member at University Child Development Preschool.

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What is your biggest vice? If you could write a book about your I am a Craigslist and Marketplace junkie. I life, what would the title be? enjoy the hunt and problem solving to try and Lucky, (to be) on two wheels. find what my friends, family and I are after, regardless of whether we actually NEED it. If Who has influenced you most when nothing else, it’s like garage saling M without it comes to how you approach your AGthe AZIN work? need for a mask or sneeze-guard! E My coworkers from whom I started with What do you wish someone had told you a straight out of college at the Kansas long time ago? Corporation Commission. While some Life isn’t about having “things.” Life is most state employment has a sense of routine successful if you have a network of people who and clerical elements, they impressed you can count on to help you M accomplish upon me that we are hired to be experts AGA or experience the things you aspire to. ZINE in our fields and to be proud of that.

TK Business Magazine

GSEP Welcomes Lance R. Smith

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515 S KANSAS AVE | TOPEKA, KS 66603 | 785.233.0593 | WWW.GSEPLAW.COM

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Lance R. Smith has recently joined the team at Goodell, Stratton, Edmonds & Palmer. Mr. Smith graduated Cum Laude from CulverStockton College and received his Juris Doctorate from Washburn University School of Law. He was admitted to the Kansas Bar in 2020. At college, Mr. Smith was named an Outstanding Scholar in Legal Studies, and was for three years Captain of the AMTA Mock Trial Team. During law school he was President of the Labor & Employment Group of Washburn and was the Student Bar Association representative. He was also inducted into the National Order of the Barristers. Prior to joining GSEP, Mr. Smith worked as a Judicial Law Clerk for all of the Shawnee County District Court judges.

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Age 35 MAG Director of Risk Management & Support Services Family Service & Guidance Center of Topeka, Inc. AZINE

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Are you dog person or a cat person? M aG I’m a kidAperson, AZlol. INIt’s why I have five of my own. But choosingEbetween the two, I’m definitely a dog person.

Alicia is tasked with creating a culture of compliance within the facility by monitoring areas of risk and following applicable rules and regulations. In MA Gcompliance AZIN duties, addition to her E she also oversees the transportation, facilities, kitchen, and administrative support departments, all of which serve to support the FSGC’s clinical programs in providing quality services to clients. Outside of work, Alicia has served on the Shawnee Heights Elementary

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What advice would you give to your teenage self? MToAnever the value of your GAunderestimate Z tribe and theIN importance of faith because E life, while beautiful, is hard, and it’s those two things that give you the strength to keep going.

“The little things I do every day are so much more impactful than any grand gesture I could make in helping the Topeka community be a What drains you outside of work? better place to live in.” MAGUgliness drains me. It hurts my heart to AZIN E being ugly to each other just see people

because they can. School PTO since 2017, and she was recently named the PTO President. She What’s the best job you’ve ever had, and is also actively involved with the Our what did you learn from it? Lady of Guadalupe Parish, serving as By far the best job I’ve ever had was being MAG the current chairperson for the Fiesta an RA at K-State University. That job, more AZIN E any other, prepared me for every job Mexicana Planning Committee and as than a School of Religion Teacher for the last I have had since. It helped me develop 19 years. valuable skills like how to work with a team, Alicia’s motto is “Be Kind,” and how to think on your feet and problem she tries to find small reminders and solve. It also showed me the need for opportunities for kindness in her a strong work ethic, the value of good MAG professional and personal life. AZI communication skills and so much more.

TK Business Magazine

Celebrating 11 years of Recognizing Today’s Leaders

to benefit tomorrow’s.

Presenting Sponsors KSNT/KTMJ

TK Business Magazine

The Dillion House

Platinum Sponsors Stormont Vail Health

Silver Sponsors Kaw Valley Bank Topeka Public Schools USD 501

Silver Sponsors Dr. Kent and Marsha Palmberg Robert and Jan Maxwell Topeka Public Schools USD 501

www.jayhawkcouncil.org

This event supports the Jayhawk Area Council, BSA and the development of youth through leadership and character building programs for boys and girls.

■ Independent

Living Living ■ Home Plus ■ Skilled Nursing ■ Memory Care ■ Short-Term Care ■ Rehabilitation ■ Assisted

aldersgatevillage.org 7220 SW Asbury Drive | Topeka, KS 66614 | (785) 478-9440 november/december 2020

TK Business Magazine

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Councilmember, Sixth District City of Topeka

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Through her dental practice, Hannah provides essential care to her patients, including referrals from the Topeka Veterans Affairs Medical Center and Shawnee County Medical Society HealthAccess. She also speaks with students at USD 501 and the local GSA Troop 3714 about oral care, conditions, and MAG working in healthcare because AZINshe recognizes the importance Ecareers that will continue to of encouraging youth to pursue improve society. Hannah represents the sixth district of the city of Topeka on the Topeka City Council. She listens to citizens and fights for improvements to help make Topeka a safer and healthier city for all citizens and an attractive place for businesses to invest MAG the key to Topeka’s success is developing a For Hannah, AZIN E culture that encourages talented, young Topekans to remain in the community. “We need to raise Topeka kids to grow and flourish so that one day they can give back to this community. I was one of those kids, and I hope I can serve as a role model to those who believe that they can make a true difference in their hometown.”

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“We need to raise Topeka MAG kids to grow and flourish AsoZthat INEone day they can give back to this community.”

Age 30 MAG AZIN Owner/Dentist E Shunga Family Dental Care

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What’s one item you want to What goal are you still working own, but you don’t? toward? A set of encyclopedias (or Creating a better and more encyclopediae, if you so equitable community. Growing up, choose). As a kid, IM would get my parents taught us that leading AGA lost in flipping through the ZINEfull and complete lives is based on pages of a library’s resource the love you show yourself and the materials. In searching for the love you show others. capital of Laos, I would get waylaid by an entry on lemurs What do you love most about or the strange properties of your work? lead. It was M a fantastic I love the relationships I have AGA way to ZINE stumble across new things with my dental team and with and pique my interest in our patients. I am so proud of different subjects. It would the work we provide and the be a completely impractical friendships we are able to cultivate purchase, but not one I would with the different patients we see regret. throughout each year.

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Kyle’s ardent love of history fuels his desire to inspire students MA to be civically active in the Topeka community. As G anA educator, ZINEcoach and leader, Kyle teaches his students the importance of honoring and respecting the men and women who gave selflessly for the cause of freedom to ensure that all citizens enjoy inherent liberties enshrined in the founding documents of the United States. OneM way Kyle has done this is by founding and AG AZthe implementing History Day program INNational E at Seaman Middle School. Two of his students who went through the program were selected to introduce former Secretary of Education, Arne Duncan, during his remarks at the Brown v Board National Historic Site. He has also developed two elective courses at SMS that focus on military MA GAZand civic engagement. sacrifice INE Outside of school, Kyle serves on the board of directors for Kansas History Day, specifically building curriculum and outreach. As a former Eagle Scout he has served as a merit badge counselor and sitting on Eagle Scout project review boards. Kyle also serves his local church, St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, as the chairman of the classical school committee, communion assistant, and usher.

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What book are you reading now? The Conquering Tide by IanM W.AG AZIN Toll. It’s the second book in his E Pacific War Trilogy which chronicles World War II in the Pacific Theater. What do you do to turn things My grandfather served in the around when you’re having a Pacific Theater. It was a project bad day? interviewing him in 6th grade that MAG began my love for history. AZIN I love coming home and spending E time with my boys, Luke and Matthew. When we go to the park, What goal are you still working the zoo, or just play at home, their toward? smiles can turn any not-so-good Becoming a better teacher/leader. day around. My students mean the world to me. It is important to be someone M G What do you love most about students can lookAup to. AIZalso INE your work? want to be a teacher that provides Having an active role in the lives leadership and is an example for of my students every day is what other teachers. As part of this goal, I absolutely love about my job! I am currently working on my Watching their growth, not only building and district leadership in the subjects I teach, but also licenses.M I hope to become a AGA in the their personal growth, is the most building administrator ZINE rewarding part of teaching. future.

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Age 33 Marketing Relationship Manager Advisors Excel

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“I lead through project implementation and by bolstering team morale with my positive outlook and resolve—seeing each hurdle as a welcome challenge rather than a roadblock.”

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Gand AZability MAG Chelsea’s assertiveness INE to AZIN Photos by EMMA HIGHFILL bring people together has served her well E for the last eight years at Advisors Excel. As a Relationship Manager on Matt Neuman’s team, What energizes you outside of What’s a mistake you made early she is responsible for managing, building and work? on in your career, and what did maintaining relationships with advisors and Traveling! Whether a day trip, weekend you learn from it? insurance carriers. her natural athletic road trip or cross country flight, I love Not being vocal enough. I learned the MAHowever, M GAZ to organizing the abilities have lent her talents exploring and visiting friends andAG AZ answer is always “no” if you don’t ask INE IN company’s “FUN Committee” sporting events and family outside of Topeka. theEquestions. has led Advisors Excel to be undefeated in the Topeka Corporate Games. What trip has impacted you the What is the most important Outside of work, Chelsea enjoys including her most? personal attribute that you bring family in her volunteer efforts. Her stepdaughters, My sister and I went to Croatia after to your job? Reese and often join her on her Meals college. We spent the week driving Flexibility. In an industry where there MJosie, M G AG ZIhas on Wheels route.AShe A along the Adriatic Sea fromAone end ZINE is constant change, I consider myself NEinvolved them in volunteerism and “bursts with pride to see of the country to the other. We didn’t to be extremely flexible and have how serving others” excites them. Chelsea has use our phones or any technology a “go with the flow” mentality. You been a “Big Sister” through the Big Brothers to get us from one place to the next, never know what issues will arise Big Sisters program for over five years and also and as frustrating as that was at the day-to-day, so it’s important to be enjoys volunteering through Club Blue, Junior time, it made for an incredible and able to adjust to change of direction Achievement and the Junior League of Topeka. unforgettable adventure with ease. M for us! AGA Z

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MAG “IAtruly love living and ZIN E Topeka. working in I take advocating for our community seriously and am fortunate to have MAG AZhad INEthe opportunity to contribute to bettering our city in a number of ways.”

Age 37 Administrative Director of Performance Improvement and Quality Stormont Vail Health

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Chad works to help Stormont Vail Health deliver care in the most effective and efficient ways possible to create a healthier community. He collaborates with leaders across the organization to MA G AZ drive improvement INEefforts, including a redesign of primary care models to place an increased focus on preventive care and addressing social determinants of health. Chad is a co-founder of Fuse Foundation, an organization that MAG AZIon focuses providing opportunities NE for social networking, support and education for young adults with neuromuscular diseases and serves on the board at the Marian Dental Clinic. He is also involved with his son in Cub Scout Pack 250 and coordinates their Pinewood Derby.

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What’s the most spontaneous thing you’ve ever done? Randomly starting a tree farm (200 trees) at my house. The term “farm” is used loosely.

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better. This applies not only to the work that I do at Stormont Vail Health and the organizations I am involved in, but also to my family and community.

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What’s the best advice you’ve ever heard? Don’t give up something unique to you (spouse, kids, family…etc.) for something someone else will do. The phrase comes from Andy MAG on Stanley (a pastor from Atlanta) AZ the topic of ensuring a balanced INE view of family as it relates to other pursuits in life. What motivates you? I am motivated to contribute MAG meaningfully to change for the AZ

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What E do you love most about your work? I love having the opportunity to work with teams of people from all different parts of the organization to accomplish something or achieve results that no one thought possible at the outset. Seeing an idea/project/process come from beginning to end, and for it to make a real difference for patients or staff, is extremely rewarding both professionally and personally.

november/december 2020

TK Business Magazine

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MAGM “I am interested A AG in the opportunityZINAEZINE to highlight the good work that is being done by theM organizations I AG M AG AZ work to support.” INAEZIN E

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Corporate Counsel Federal Home Loan Bank of Topeka

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Sarah serves as lead counsel to four departments: Housing and Community MAG Development, Human AZ Resources and Inclusion, Operations INE Risk, and Information Technology. She recently became President of the Kansas Women Attorneys Association whose mission is to promote the efficient administration of justice, to encourage the advancement, education, and support of women in the legal profession, and to support equality and justice MAforGall people. She also volunteers with the YWCA of Northeast AZKansas. INE Sarah is a board member of the Friends of the Kaw and a member of the Topeka/Shawnee County Riverfront Authority Riverfront Action Team. Sarah and her husband are currently restoring approximately nine acres in Southwest Topeka with the goal of developing walking trails and re-introducing native species to the property.

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What’s one hobby you’d love to try? What’s something—big or MAG I probably already have too many AZINsmall—that you’re really good at? hobbies, but I’m always looking to try IEcan make some mean cookies. new things. Lately, I’ve been exploring various fiber arts. What’s the best advice you have ever been given? What led you to this career? My mother once told me, “remember My parents are amazing role models why you started.” Sometimes, it’s MAme and their example showed easy to get lost in the rush and press GAtheZlegal profession provides the opportunityIN forE of day-to-day obligations and lose a meaningful and ever-evolving career. sight of the big picture reasons why I chose the career I did. Remembering What energizes you at work? what ideals and goals I sought to Working collaboratively with colleagues pursue in the beginning helps to to find solutions. refocus and rejuvenate me.

TK Business Magazine

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Age 39 Lead Campus Pastor Hi-Crest Campus, Fellowship Bible Church M

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Johnathan moved to Topeka, to truly MAG Along with the help of serve the community. AZIN volunteers, he led the launch of E the Fellowship Hi-Crest church campus. Johnathan brings residents from all over Topeka to Hi-Crest for services each weekend, and the church has grown from a plant team of 60 to over 300 people. MAG helped create SENT, a nonJohnathan AZIN profit with three major pillars: Education, E Business Development, and Community Health. In 2019, SENT built the first new home in the Hi-Crest community in more than 60 years. SENT is proud to offer a clinical therapist on campus and now owns and leases several rental properties for the community.

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“Leadership starts with self. Since AZIN 2003, I have E lost over 350lbs through much dedication and sacrifice.”

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others of me. As I achieved my goals, AZIthought NE changed and that made me nothing really question what success and winning really Photos by EMMA HIGHFILL looks like. I didn’t find it when I overcame poverty to have a successful career as a If you could snap your fingers and chemical engineer. I didn’t find it when I become an expert in something, what MAG lost weight to beat obesity. I didn’t find it AZwhen would it be? INEI finally got married at age 35. I didn’t Loving others. At times, I am stubborn, overly find it when I adopted the kids that I always ambitious and a lot more prideful than I dreamed of. Learning to love God, myself would like to admit. This leads to ungraceful and others allowed me to see that winning is thoughts and sometimes words. If I could enjoying the journey. love God and others like Jesus, that would enable me to achieve what reallyM matters: What advice would you give to your AGA being with God and people in this journey ZINE teenage self? we call life. You aren’t what you achieve. Don’t be in such a hurry. Money may fix your poverty, but it If you could write a book about your life, won’t make you whole. That girl that you like, what would the title be, and why? who won’t give the attention you want, Learning what it means to win. I have spent doesn’t determine your beauty. Timelines Movercome so much of my life trying to are useful, but they aren’t everything. AG what

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Age 28 Owner and CEO O’Shea Strengths Coaching

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“I am very proud to lead others to better MA GAapply understand and ZINE their strengths!”

Strengths Coaching to solve people problems in the workplace so teams and individuals can thrive and drive business outcomes. She provides executive M AG coaching, team training, ZINE and organizational keynoteAspeaking, development consulting for long-term change projects. Kristen sits on the board for the Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library. She also serves on MAGthe National Committee for Young AZINin the Lutheran Women’s Women E Missionary League and created a national bible study for each of the 50 state’s young women representatives. Additionally, Kristen is also president of the Alpha Delta Pi, Kansas State University Building Association.

E Kristen founded O’Shea

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What are a few of your favorite memories from the past year? Keynoting for Junction City Chamber Annual Meeting, one week before the COVID-19 shut down. It was there that someone suggested I run for MAG office. AZ Hawaii with my husband for new year’s! Hiring two team members in marketing and finance MAG administration. AZI

What’s one thing most people don’t know about you? I got a trampoline for my 23rd birthday. I love jumping and doing flips! M

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AZ INdid How E you decide to pursue

your career? I realized I had talent and interest in psychology in high school. I saw how most teams and companies weren’t very effective and efficient with their INEpeople. I knew I wanted to work with human and organizational development with companies.

If you could pick any job other than your current one, what would you do? Interior design, floral design, and owning more businesses. I have a knack for color and design. After running my own business I’ve realized how TK amazing it is.

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What do you know now that you wish you knew then?

I wish I had known then the power and importance of saying “no.” As a young professional, it is easy to get excited and say yes to a lot. While I encourage that early on, so that you have an opportunity to try different opportunities to find your passion, it’s also very important not to take on too much at once.

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Chris Fisher Anchor WIBW-TV Class of 2014

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Do your thing, not what someone else thinks you should do. Awards are nice, but there is no greater sense of accomplishment MA GAchange than seeing for the ZINE greater good because of something you did.

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What valuable lesson have you learned over MAG AZINthe years?

What advice would you give MtoAaspiring G AZ INE young professionals?

Justin Glasgow President MAG Tire & Auto Performance AZ Class of 2010 INE

Amanda Kiefer FVP, Director of Human Resources and Inclusion MAG FHLBank Topeka AZIN Class of 2014 E

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PAST 20 UNDER 40 HONOREES SHAREE THOUGHTS ON THEN AND NOW.

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People will come and go. Your “ride or die” crew will be those who truly invest their time in you. And, you will do the same without hesitation.

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Add value first to customers and then teammates and company, and success will follow your hard work.

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What do you wish you could go back and tell your younger self?

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MPresident AGA & CEO ZINEMetals Inc. Ernest-Spencer Class of 2013

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What advice would MAG ZIN you give Ayour younger E self?

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David Callanan Co-founderMAG A INE Advisors Excel WealthZ Management Class of 2014

Dr. Gina Hendrickson, DDS, MS Co-owner and Orthodontist Hamilton, Wilson, and Hendrickson Orthodontics Class of 2014

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Delegation E followed by recognition motivates people in huge ways.

Owning your own business is tough and at times M requires Gmade. difficult decisions toAbe AZIN E Go with your gut and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t linger on your decisions, even if they have difficult outcomes.

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What leadership tip would you give to aspiring professionals?

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Since your selection in 2012, what valuable M lesson have you learned? AGAZINE

I learned how important it is to have an executive and management team that share the vision of the company. I have, unfortunately, putM people AGA in a management role in the ZINE past that did not share the same vision, and the results were very costly. Team members that are in Greg Gathers tune with the direction that the President & CEO company is going are invaluable. Custom Tree Care MAG Class of 2012 A

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What advice do you have for the new honorees?

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MAG Jamie Stafford AZIN Risk Manager E Kansas Personnel Services, Inc. dba Key Staffing & Premier Employment Solutions Class of 2015

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How have your leadershipMAG AZIN skills evolved? E

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Jammie Serrano Vice President of Advisor Development Advisors Excel Class of 2016

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What words of Awisdom ZINE do you have for the new class of 20 Under 40?

Be mindful. Stay connected with your group. See your MAG AZINhonoree group as a team. Get them E together for a special Nancy Perry Day of Caring project, host a food drive as a team, etc.

Jared Holroyd Executive Director The Sheridan at OverlandM Park AGA Assisted Living and Memory Care ZINE Class of 2010

How can a young Find opportunity in your current organization M to involved. Outside of your A professional make a Gbe Amore ZINElook at volunteering your time organization bigger impact utilizing on nonprofit boards. There you will learn a lot their skills? about what’s going on in the community and be even more able to help!

Jared Rudy President/CEO Norsemen Brewing Company Class of 2017

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learned from my failures. I learned I had to find what works for me. I could no longer try to do things the way everyone else had done them. I was the first female in my role and I was trying to do what all my male peers had always done. I learned to find my own unique abilities and talents as a female in a male-dominated industry, lead with a positive attitude and be innovative. Once I figured that out, I have completely turned things around and am excelling.

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I have always been aware that the driving force of leadership is the motivation to achieve; however, I have not always recognized how this MA can make my relationships seem G AZ INE transactional to others. Recently I have been influenced to nurture an attitude of gratitude, and to find ways to show that I care for others—in ways that they find valuable. Being gracious and recognizing gratitude in others is a skill I wish I had been M more cognizant of in AG A my past; now I embrace it. ZINE

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AZINdoing in my job wasn’t working. E However, I did not except defeat. I

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TK Business Magazine

AZIN

Don’t just join a Club

Join a Family

The Topeka CounTry Club

KBUSINES S KBUSINES TO

P E K A C.C EST. 1905

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love where you

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“I’m going to play at home. I love to be at Topeka Country Club. MAG AZIN It’s where I grew up. That’s one - Gary Woodland E course I’d play every day.” 2019 U.S. Open Champion

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The Topeka CounTry Club www.topekacc.org november/december 2020

TK Business Magazine

2700 Sw buchanan, Topeka, kansas 66611 | (785) 354-8561

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GM AG AZ INAEZ

What piece of advice has guided you well?

Being the change I want to see in the world by being part of the solution and not the problem. It’s so easy to get caught up in complaining. But you can accomplish much more when we are focused on the solution.

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MAGM AG AZ INAEZIN Lindsay Freeman E State Manager, Community Relations Kansas Gas Service Class of 2018

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E Jennifer Kirmse

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AVP Business Services Azura Credit Union Class of 2011

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Lonnie Walker, Jr. Diversity & Inclusion Program Manager FHLBank Topeka Class of 2018

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Being in the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion space, I learn more about myself and others every day. For me, I continue to learn that if you want the most from people, it’s important to meet them where they are; not where you want them to be.

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ZINEevery young WhatAshould aspiring professional have?

Be sure you have a mentor. Your mentor should be someone who challenges MAGyou, doesn’t necessarily agree AZIN E you say and with everything is someone who can help you grow to your greatest potential.

Christina Turner MAG AZIN Owner E Manchester School for Young Children Class of 2014

What have you learned MAwere since you GA selected? ZINE

Wow! I have certainly learned a lot in the last six years. I think the most important thing that I have learned is that I have the right to ask for help. I don’t have to always be Superwoman and do everything myself.

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What is something that has impacted you based on your work experience?

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Never say: “That isn’t in my job description,” because every job function you undertake and skill you learn, especially from the tasks that aren’t in your normal duties, will open doors to other opportunities in the future.

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What is one suggestion you have for young professionals lookingMAtoGadvance AZIN their careers?

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Tom Hagen Corporate Communications Capitol Federal® Class of 2016

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Schendel can give you time to enjoy what is most important to you. How can we help you in 2021?

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Greater Topeka

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Alicia VanWalleghem AG AZ INE Owner Leaping Llamas Artisan Shop Class of 2019

What is something recommend to AZyou INE others?

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Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be afraid to ask the question. Whatever the question is that may be on your mind, you have to ask the question, MAG AZIN otherwise you may never find Eout the answer.

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What leadership skill has served you MAG best? AZI Humble confidence. It has taken me years to build this skill, but once I began to develop a confident, yet humble, attitude, new doors MA began to open, and Gnew opportunities startedAtoZINE present themselves. This is not a skill gained overnight, or even over a year. It is built through patient work and diligence over a number of years. MAG

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Vince Cox Attorney at Law Cavanaugh, Biggs & Lemon, P.A. Class of 2018

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should someone approach work in order to achieve their career goals?

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Rachel Sachs Advisors Excel VP of Life Operations Class of 2015

Success is a grind and it is not a sprint but a continuous marathon. Hard work, determination, commitment and grit are what keeps momentum moving forward to great opportunities in your future.

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COVID-19 has been the most impactful experience for me and to M AGALlamas since we opened Leaping ZIN in 2016. The lockEdown period was a great learning experience as it showed me that life can be just as sweet (if not sweeter) when you slow down and focus on the things MAGthat are truly important instead of AZINyour wheels being busy, spinning E but maybe not as truly productive. I plan to carry this lesson forward and focus on things that are truly important and let go of the rest.

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WhatMAhasGAbeenZIN theE most impactful experience for your business?

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Travis Stryker President CAS Constructors, LLC Class of 2013

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november/december 2020

TK Business Magazine

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An established career brings MAG many rewards: mastery, stability AZIN E and, letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not forget, a larger stack of vacation days. Why leave all of that to start back at square one? Three Topeka M professionals explain whyAGAZIN E they left their thriving careers behind to venture outside their comfort zones in pursuit of a new challenge. M

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Here to Help You Rebuild Your LifeÂŽ

Body Language Can Matter in the Family Court

In any court date in the family court, there are a lot of moving parts. For example, if there is a trial or evidentiary hearing, parties are often worried about the case itself. This might mean worrying about the witnesses who will be called, the evidence presented, and how the judge will rule. It also might involve the emotions and stress involved with having to be in court. For many, it took a long time to get a trial or court date. Even if it is not a trial date, but merely a motion date, pretrial or settlement conference, these court dates can be stressful. Stress can cause parties to become nervous, anxious or even frustrated. These feelings can sometimes bring out bad body language in the courtroom. The bad body language can culminate in frowning, being fidgety, slouching or even reacting negatively from a body language perspective based on what happens in court. Some parties may moan or gasp. Others might throw up their hands or fidget in their chairs. In some instances, parties might furiously pass notes to their lawyers. Ultimately, the poor visuals can be damaging. The bad body language can come when an individual simply sees the other party in a contentious case. But the wrong body language can begin when the opposing lawyer is speaking,

when a witness is testifying or something happens that they feel is bad for their case. Worse yet, it can come when the judge says something or announces a ruling from the bench. Bad body language can damage a case. Judges have lots of discretion in divorce or family court cases in terms of what they do. Often, judges are weighing the credibility of witnesses not only based on what they say, but what they can see. If the family court judge sees body language they do not like, it can be damaging. Ultimately, parties need to be careful that they are in control of their body language. They have to understand that this can make a difference. Some useful tips include remaining stone-faced at all times. No matter what happens in a courtroom, most parties should not react to it in any way. Sitting in a chair with good posture can help. It can project confidence and a sense of calm. Even with the stress of these court dates, parties have to go to their happy place emotionally. It might mean meditating or praying for peace. It might mean engaging in breathing techniques or trying to focus on something. Whatever helps a person display a positive demeanor, they should employ. Parties have to avoid showing their anger, anxiety and frustration as best as possible. To the extent they are getting emotional, talking to their attorney in a private room to express their concerns can help. It might mean taking a walk or going to the water fountain or restroom when emotions are building up. But when a party is in the courtroom, they should realize that everything they do can impact the case. Bad body language can even impact the ability to settle the case. If the opposing party and lawyer can see that a party is becoming unglued, some may decide not to settle because they

might believe that the other party will not make a good impression. Stange Law Firm, PC limits their practice to family law matters including divorce, child custody, child support, paternity, guardianship, adoption, mediation, collaborative law and other domestic relation matters. Stange Law Firm, PC gives clients 24/7 access to their case through a secured online case tracker found on the website. They also give their clients their cell phone numbers. Call for a consultation today at 855-805-0595.

To schedule a consultation:

855-805-0595

WWW.STANGELAWFIRM.COM The choice of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisements. Kirk Stange is responsible for the content. Principle place of business 120 South Central Ave, Suite 450, Clayton, MO 63105. Neither the Supreme Court of Missouri/Illinois/Kansas nor The Missouri/Illinois/Kansas Bar reviews or approves certifying organizations or specialist designations. Court rules do not permit us to advertise that we specialize in a particular field or area of law. The areas of law mentioned in this article are our areas of interest and generally are the types of cases which we are involved. It is not intended to suggest specialization in any areas of law which are mentioned The information you obtain in this advertisement is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls, letters and electronic mail. Contacting us does not create an attorney-client relationship. Past results afford no guarantee of future results and every case is different and must be judged on its merits.

Shawnee County Office 800 SW Jackson Street, Suite 812

Topeka, Kansas 66612

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november/december 2020

TK Business Magazine

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E Casper is the Connie owner and operator of Topeka’s Nothing Bundt Cakes, which opened this summer, 15 months after MAG AZIN her son Drew woke from Ea six-week coma.

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Sweet Satisfaction: Nothing Bundt Cakes

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When’s the best time to start a challenges of building a business. new business? Many entrepreneurs But when her job shifted toward agree there’s never a “good” more meetings and less work with MAtime G ofZ people, something changed. to sacrifice stability for the sake A INE a dream. But opening a bakery six “I didn’t feel like I was being months after your son survives a true to myself,” she said. life-threatening injury? That takes faith. A MIRACULOUS TURNING Connie Casper is the owner POINT MAGNothing and operator of Topeka’s Casper spent years grappling AZIN Bundt Cakes, which opened this with what she truly wanted E summer, 15 months after her son from her career. But a text from Drew woke from a six-week coma. an unknown number brought “I was always told you start a everything to a stop. business when you have nothing or Her son, Drew, had been in a everything,” Casper car crash and was on the way to the MAGsaid. “When AZI realized Drew had his collision, hospital. INE I had everything.” “If you are Drew Casper’s Before breaking into the mother, he is in an ambulance going baked goods business, Casper to Stormont Vail,” the message said, spent decades building her career. “You need to get there.” Starting out as a certified public Drew was internally accountant, realized she liked decapitated and suffered a MAshe GAZpeople more. So, numbers but liked traumatic brain injury that put him INE she shifted to the sales industry and in a coma. Casper said the doctors climbed her way up to executive warned her that the Drew who management. woke up may not be the son she Casper felt the most satisfied knew. when working for companies in the Weeks later at a rehabilitation growth stage. Having a knack for center in Nebraska, Drew’s healing MAG AZIN she enjoyed the building processes, showed remarkable progress. E

TK Business Magazine

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TK Business Magazine

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Casper’s frequent trips to Lincoln, Nebraska’s Nothing Bundt Cakes became a happy part of her almost-daily routine. “Every time I went in, it just felt good,” she said. “It made me think about that next step.”

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Casper also realized she was spending more time with her family than she had in years. MAG “I started to look back and AZIN ask myself, ‘What’s E going to make me happy?’” Casper said. Drew surprised everyone when he woke up from his coma talking. Before his first therapy session, the speech pathologist MAGasked Drew what soft food he AZIN wanted toEeat. His request for a Nothing Bundt Cake marked the beginning of his miraculous recovery — and a new chapter for his whole family.

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Casper looked into opening takes a leap of faith to make that a store in 2016 but dropped the change.” idea after discovering the closest Casper’s positivity pulled her opportunity was in Topeka, 55 through the feelings of doubt, and minutes away from her home inMAG A she pressed on. ZINE Manhattan, Kansas. But three “I knew if we put the right years later, the outpouring of effort into it, even if we started support in Topeka gave Casper a with a low sales volume, we could different outlook. In September build that business,” she said. 2019, she signed her franchise A great staff helped build agreement. Casper’s confidence. She hired 22 MAG Construction went smoothlyAZIN employees: three full time and 19 E on the Wanamaker Road part time. One was an unexpected storefront. But one April evening, surprise. Drew caught his mother Casper drove over to check on the off guard when he asked if he site and felt doubt creep in. could work full time at the bakery. “I thought, ‘Oh my gosh, “I worried,” Casper admitted. what did I do?’” Casper “Would we get along? Would he MAsaid. G It was the beginning ofAZINE enjoy every menial task? But he a world-throttling pandemic has been along for the ride from and her opening date had been the minute we got the keys.” pushed six weeks. Not an ideal time to forego a steady income. WHEN CAKE FILLS A VOID “As we get older, we get more On July 22, Nothing Bundt MAthat comfortable with paycheck Cakes of Topeka opened its G AZ I“It and benefits,” said Casper. doors. Casper was at the helm, NE

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Topeka’s Nothing Bundt Cakes broke the franchise record for opening day sales in spite of launching during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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the process, which so much fun,” MAisG AZIN Casper said. E Casper has also been enjoying every other aspect of the business, including sweeping, waiting on guests and being on frosting duty. “That is what I love,” she said. “I don’t haveM to A beGjust thing.” AZone INE allowed Being a business owner Casper to return to the most fulfilling aspects of her previous career. But now, she gets to do it alongside her family, including the son who has defied all odds.M AGA “I thought ZI Iwas NEon this road by myself to find what was going to make me happy,” Casper said. “But it’s turned into a journey for the whole family, something we can do together.”

Drew was running marketing and doing deliveries. Casper’s husband and daughter were also trained and ready to help. By closing time, they broke the franchise record for opening-day sales. MAG “I understood not every day was AZIN going E to be like that,” Casper said. “But from the welcome and positivity of people who came in, I knew this was going to be great.” While COVID-19 was a concern, Casper said sales thrived because more MAG people were celebrating at home. Yet, AZIN E puzzlingly, curbside pickup hasn’t taken off with Topeka customers. Casper hopes to change that for the holiday season, a challenge well-suited for a process-loving strategist. “The brand is already created, the MAG product is great, now I just get to adjust A

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Stephen Wade, budget andMAG A ZINE performance manager for the City of Topeka, spent three decades running publications that hold the government accountable. Now he helps the government with its accounting.

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A Different Side of the Story: Former Capital-Journal Publisher MAG AZINNew Government Career Creates MAG E

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E Stephen Wade spent three Wade’s photography took him decades running publications that to the Topeka Capital-Journal. He hold the government accountable. started as a picture editor, but later Now, he’s helping the government put aside his lens to explore the with its accounting. business aspect of the news. He A former regional publisher MAmoved to the production side then G AZ with Gannett, Inc. (the media worked Ihis NEway up to the paper’s company that publishes the Topeka director of operations. Capital-Journal), Wade is months While no longer capturing into his new position as budget and championship moments, Wade performance manager for the City enjoyed the new challenges of his of Topeka. Seeing the Capital City leadership role. MAG from a different angle, Wade said AZIN“Whether you’re on the news E the business side, there is his new role challenges him every side or day. And that’s exactly what he something different every day,” wanted. Wade said. “That’s the part of “I figured I have a good 15 working in newspapers I absolutely years left of a working career,” Wade adored.” said. “It was an opportunity to do Eventually, Wade accepted MAG something different.” the role of publisher and spent 18 AZIN Eyears leading regional papers for Wade’s career in journalism began as a sports photographer 12 different Kansas communities. and picture editor in Los Angeles, Even from the top, Wade still felt where he built a solid portfolio connected to his journalist roots. of snapshots from Rose Bowls, a “You’re shining a light in Final Four and several football areas that need a little bit of help,” M championship games.AG AZI Wade said. “You’re helping a NE

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community celebrate. You’re certainly helping citizens stay in touch with what’s on. You’re holding others MAgoing GAZ” accountable. IN

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The extra polish paid off, and Wade landed the job. Despite his confidence in his new path, Wade’s last day in the newsroom was tough. MAG “When you spend 30 years in a career, there’s certainly some AZINE apprehension in not knowing what the new path will be like,” he said. “But I love Topeka. This is where I wanted to stay.”

A CHANCE FOR SOMETHING NEW Despite his affection for news, three decades into his career, Wade’s MAinterest GAZpiqued when the city’s budget management INE position opened. MAG SAME “I had been through so many NEW JOB. NEW INDUSTRY. AZIN E different mergers and acquisitions HOUSE. that it was just time for me,” Wade Wade jumped right into his new said. “The thing about public government role, budgeting capital administration is, you still have the improvement projects, creating MAG ability to affect change and help build operational and personnel budgets and Abetter ZINEcommunities.” developing financial MAforecasts. G Z extra Wade believed his experience The pandemic addedAan INE in forecasting and strategic planning challenge, both for the budgets and for would be a good fit for the role. But Wade’s transition to a new industry. to sharpen his edge, he took classes “If I had stayed in journalism, it from the University of Kansas School wouldn’t have been as a big of deal,” MAG of Public Affairs and Administration. said Wade, who works at home most AZINThe more classes he took, the more AG of the time. M “But changing E AZ professions, assured he felt. learning all new systemsIN and E “I really started to see that that procedures, it’s been tough.” career path made sense,” Wade said. Luckily, working remotely is one The next step was persuading aspect of the job that isn’t new for Wade. employers. In his publishing role, managing from MAG “The hardest part was trying afar was when overseeing a Mrequired AGAcommunity publications. AZIN to convince somebody outside of dozen different ZINE E that industry that my skills would Another bonus from his journalistic translate,” Wade said. roots – knowing how to write well. Wade interviewed a lot of job “When you work remotely, you candidates over the years, but spent learn to communicate differently,” said little time on the other side of the Wade, who has the “touch base” email MAG desk. So, he hired a professional to down MAGpat. AZIN ZINE he missed the help with his resume. He A admitted E “I consider myself a decent writer, electricity of election night coverage in but telling your own story is hard,” the newsroom, but his new venture is Wade said. “Hiring someone helped doing plenty to keep him on his toes. me define my strengths. I think it “Every day so far for me has been helped me do a lot better in interviews different,” Wade said. “Intellectually, because it forces you to reflect and tell MA it’s been a great challenge that I’ve G AZ your story quickly and succinctly.” absolutely INEloved.”

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Katie Whisman, strategy consultant and business development for Mdirector AGGroup, Premier Advisory AZIfelt N she shifted careers for the E right opportunity at the right time for herself and her family.

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AGA ZINE to Visionary: From Facts Former KBI Agent Falls in Love with Storytelling

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Katie Whisman spent 18 AZIanalyzing years violent crime NE scenes and advocating for justice at the Kansas Bureau of Investigation. Today, she coaches business owners through the Premier Advisory Group as MAG a Strategy Consultant and AZIBusiness NE Development Director. What seems like two unrelated fields came together for Whisman through one powerful force: storytelling. You might say Whisman’s career began in second grade. MAG AZIN A lover of the “Unsolved E Mysteries” TV show, Whisman tuned in every Wednesday evening to see what true crime was waiting to be solved. “I became enamored by the investigated process and helping

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people with one of the most to the director of the KBI. difficult times of their lives,M ” AG In her role, she advocated AZ Whisman said. forIN theE agency by leading After solving a 1978 special projects and working homicide case as an intern, with the legislature. Sitting Whisman eventually fulfilled her through legislative hearings, dream of becoming a KBI agent. Whisman recalls wishing more She was passionate about her job people would feel compelled M G but working 60 homicideAcases AZINto help solve the state’s many E in five years took a toll. challenges. “You’re seeing the worst of “Too often, we focus on the worst,” Whisman said, “all feeding them just the facts day, every day.” and fall short of conveying the In time, Whisman decided ‘why.’ And it’s really the ‘why’ she was ready for a change. that matters most to people— MAG “I felt I had done what citizens and elected officials AZIIN E —and inspires them to take wanted to do,” she said. “I helped a lot of people. But I wanted to action.” be home more with my kids.” Whisman found the In 2014, Whisman left opportunity to do just that crime scenes behind to become while working on the Kansas the first female sexual assault kit initiative. M executive officer

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FEEL THE CALL M way I’d never been able to do on my A CHANGE OF HEART OF A NEW CAREER? AGAZIN own—despite all of the networks and When Whisman was first assigned If you are fighting the fear of the E teams we had working together— to lead the initiative, her team’s task that’s where it started to shift for me.” unknown, keep these insights in mind: was to identify all unsubmitted rape kits (medical reports released by MAG THE AZIRIGHT the victim to law enforcement for NE CHANCE AT THE Practice your pitch. RIGHT TIME investigation) that had accumulated MAG After the campaign launched, in law enforcement property rooms AZIN “Selling yourself takes practice—even Whisman still felt a pull to make a across the state. They identified over E for a former journalist! Try telling your change in her life. Ready for more 2,200 untested kits and submitted them story in such a fashion that it emphasizes work-life balance and intrigued for forensic analysis. But still, the issue your skills. If you have a weak area, persisted. MAG by a new way of impacting people, take college courses to gain confidence time seemed right to leave law Even after Whisman identified AZthe in a new career path that is a good fit. Ienforcement N E behind. When the a link between the kit and a suspect, MA Learn as much asG you can about the new AZIN opportunity arose to work with cases were still not getting investigated. industry.” E Premier Advisory Group, an affiliate So, they set out to determine why. of Bajillion Agency, Whisman took it. Whisman and her team discovered Stephen Wade “It felt like the right thing at a lack of trauma-informed training Budget & Performance Manager the right time for the right reasons,” available to law enforcement City of Topeka Mand A criminal justice practitioners. InG AZIN Whisman said. “It gave me an E opportunity to do something I was MA response, Whisman and team trained AZIN what you Think G about passionate about, but also be able over 1,500 professionals. But a E to have time to myself and with my significant barrier remained. Despite bring to the table. family.” more cases making it to court, juries From day one, things were were failing to convict. “Don’t be limited by your own mind. A different. Whisman walked into the To give more victims a greater MAG career shifter should sit down and think AZher hip, open-floor plan office and had chance at justice, Whisman and INE about M AGskills that are transferable to any one thought: “This is so not a state team needed to better educate the industry.AItZ takes a lot of courage to INE government space,” she recalled. “It general public who made up the jury make a career change. Have confidence felt very refreshing.” pools. in yourself and know that at the end of While working with business “I was like, ‘I’m just a cop, I don’t the day, you’re going to land on your own owners seems like a 180 from law know how to do that, but I know we two feet.” enforcement, the project management need to do it,’” Whisman MAG said. Katie Whisman AZaIpublic and conflict resolution skills MAG Whisman envisioned NE AZIN Strategy Consultant & Whisman mastered at the KBI are awareness campaign that would help E Business Development Director key in helping entrepreneurs convert the public shift from a victim-blaming Premier Advisory Group challenges to opportunities. perspective to a focus on offender “This has given me the chance accountability. Bajillion Agency won the bid for the request for proposal, and to work with people, understand Remember: If you challenges, bring visionary leadership the work began. MAG M AGA AZINBajillion’s and brainstorm,” Whisman said. Whisman watched fail, ZINE you can rebound. E She also puts her analytical mind “Yes. This Room” Campaign come to work by helping to build and refine alive through videos, web content, “One advantage we have as we get older, the company’s processes. posters and other pieces designed to is learning to trust our judgment and “I geek out on strategic planning educate Kansans and increase sexual the ability to understand what we want and process improvement,” Whisman assault awareness. Through her work in life. If it doesn’t work out the way you said. “I have really enjoyed creating withM the agency, Whisman felt a planned, focus on the lessons learned. MAG AGA systems to help make everything work new appreciation ZINforE the power of AZIN Even when someone else calls something E a failure, there is actually success in it together effectively and efficiently.” storytelling. Whisman admits she still has “If you are able to make an because of what we learn.” a lot to learn, but, a familiar law emotional connection with the Connie Casper enforcement mantra helps guide audience, it has the power to not only Owner/Operator her steps: “Improvise, adapt and change minds, but hearts,” Whisman Nothing Bundt Cakes overcome.” TK said. “When the message spread in a M AGA Z

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Topeka was the first location chosen in Kansas for Club Carwash because the market had a lot of potential, according to Emeri Burgher, marketing director at Club Carwash.

Club Carwash opened four Topeka locations in 2019, strategically placed to serve different areas of the city. The first location to open was off of MAG24 in the Dillons Plaza Highway AZIN at 831 NW 25th St.E Within just a few months other locations opened at 6017 SW 30th Terrace, 1834 SW Topeka Boulevard and 2524 SE California.

Drive around Topeka and you will likely see cars lined up to enter a Club Carwash, automated car washes with futuristic looking vacuum arms lining the parking lot. Customers can either pay by the wash MA G AZ MISSOURI ROOTS or purchase a monthly E ClubIN Carwash actually membership for unlimited originated in Columbia, washes. Missouri. Rollie Bartels was

working in heavy highway construction in 2006 when he By KATHY WEBBER & LISA LOEWEN purchased his first car wash and M Photos by EMMA HIGHFILLAG Anamed Z it Tiger Express Wash.

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Purchase a Wash Book at one of our locations or online at clubcarwash.com (starts Nov.1)

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Bartels slowly started to open more Burgher notes that even though the car washes in other Missouri cities, MAmajority G Z of Club Carwash customers turning it into a family-run business areAmembers, INE membership is not that included two of his children, required to use the services. MAG Emeri Burgher and Collin Bartels, “We are not like a Sam’s Club,” AZIN E their spouses, as well as other family Burgher said. “You don’t have to have members. a membership to wash your car here, When the company decided but we love our membership concept. to branch out to other states, they MA We want everybody to be able to take decided a name change was in order. G AZ advantage INE of the perks of being part of MAG “We originated where the our club.” AZIN University of Missouri is, so that’s Club Carwash emphasizes a E where the name Tiger Express Wash clean appearance and well maintained came from,” said Emeri Burgher, equipment, something the company marketing director for Club Carwash. hopes will set them apart from the “We decided it was not a veryM fitting competition. AGA name for other states, however. We ZINE “Carwashes don’t have the best MAG wanted our name to represent our reputation for being state-of-the-art AZIN E brand and who we are nationwide.” and clean, so we tried to change that,” Burgher said the company picked Burgher said. “We take pride in the fact Topeka as the first city in Kansas in that everything at every location works which to bring the Club Carwash good, looks good and is well taken care MAG business because the market had a lot of. We know that a vehicle is one of AZIN of potential. MAG E people’s biggest assets, so we want them AZIN ” Burgher said. “At “When we did research we found extremely difficult, to trust us to take care of that vehicle E that Topeka was an underserved some locations, our customer base and keep that asset looking great.” market. There wasn’t a ton of car takes off quicker than others.” washes in Topeka, especially like what The biggest challenge the EXPENSES & EXPECTATIONS we do,” Burgher said. “We also found company has found during its first Keeping a carwash that handles Menough that Topeka was big year in Topeka is hiring, Burgher says. more than 1,000 cars per day and up to AGA to handle MEven ZIN AGA more than one location, which lets though they offer competitive 75 cars per hour, in tip top shape is not E us ZINEit hard to compete support a local management staff.” pay, they find an easy task. with some of the larger factories and “As you can imagine, our water bill BUSINESS MODEL companies in town. is not for the faint at heart!” Burgher The Club Carwash business said. “Equipment and chemicals are model is a subscription based EXPANSION PLANS certainly a large expense for us, but membershipM that offers unlimited Club Carwash has 30 locations we want every wash to be the highest M AG AGA AZIN washes for a monthly fee. The located quality.” ZINEin three states: Missouri, E club membership, which also includes Kansas and Illinois. Most of the Just maintaining the vacuum skip the line privileges, is valid at any expansion has taken place just systems can be a chore—considering all location without a long-term contract, within the past four years. The rapid of the weird items that can clog up the so the membership can be canceled at expansion of Club Carwash locations system. any time. isn’t finished yet. The company hopes “We had a diamond ring sucked up Mconvenient. “It’s It’s kind of to open 10 new locations this year. one time,” Burgher said. “Another a Mwas AGA AG ZIN similar to a Netflix membership. thumb drive on a lanyard. The customerAZIN “We plan on expanding to E E People don’t want to deal with the Wichita and possibly Derby and was on his way to a presentation and his hassle, they just want a low cost option Lansing, Kansas. We also will be presentation was on this thumb drive.” for washing their car, and they want going to Iowa and Nebraska,” Burgher Even though the business model it to be easy. You pay once a month said, “We feel that these locations are is the same for each location, the and you can wash whenever you untapped markets, so we are ready to challenges can be vastly different. want as many times as you want. It’s provide our services and make happy “One location, findingM employees AGA convenient and simple,” Burgher said. TK may be rather easy, where the next isZINE new customers.”

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Club Carwash emphasizes a clean appearance and well-maintained MAG ZINE equipment so everything looksAgood and works well.

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TURN “WHAT IF” INTO

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ZIN| Ewinstonbrown@winston-brown.com 785-271-1661 | 5600 SW 29th St · Topeka | winston-brown.com

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WASHBURN PROFESSORS ADDRESS MAG A ZINE

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The economists in the MAGWashburn School of Business AZIexpertise have in many areas. NE We asked them to address several aspects of how the COVID-19 pandemic is affecting the national, state and local MAG AZIN economic condition. E

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The US economy, declined a MAby GM AG AZ INAEZIN record amount in the 2nd quarter E of 2020. What do you think is the outlook going forward? Gross domestic MAGM product (GDP) reflects AG AZ INAEZIN our nation’s income. It is E the broadest measure of economic activity. In July, the Bureau of Economic Analysis reported the US economy lost 32.9% of MAGM AG AZ income relative to last year INAEZIN E as consumers cut back in spending; businesses Manaf Sellak reduced investments, and Assistant Professor global trade locked up. This of Economics economic contraction was MAG recession in 1957 about three times the economic AZIN (10%), and eight times the economic decline of 2007E 2009 (4.3%). Economic theory suggests that when a global event, like COVID-19, hits an economy, the government should design policies that put the economy back to track. MAGThe current economic contraction would have been severe without the AZImore NE “CARES Act,” in which the government distributed $3 trillion of aid to households and businesses. The Federal Reserve Bank lowered the interest rate to 0.25% to boost consumers’ and investors’ spending. These fiscal and monetary policies have reduced the M unemployment rate from 14.7% to 7.9%. AGA ZIN The continuous increase in E the number of COVID-19 cases and the uncertainty about vaccine preparedness create an economic environment where spending could fall, and more businesses could temporarily shut down. Many economists recommend that Congress maintain aid to the households and MAG businesses—another AZINstimulus package—until we E and/or a vaccine to end the have a better treatment pandemic. PHOTO SUBMITTED

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E How has a world-wide pandemic MAG

affected global trade? What is the AZIN E long-term outlook?

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Is there any fear that the banking and financial sector is under stress? M

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INE The pandemic induced recession shows up in the banking sector. The combined net income of more than MAG 5,000 banks who AZIN E report to the FDIC was $18.8 billion in the second quarter of 2020, a big drop Sungkyu Kwak from $55.78 billion Professor of Economics in the first quarter M G of 2020 and $62.52 in A the second AZINquarter of 2019. Still, the ratio of noncurrentE(bad) loans to total loans, an important measure of banks’ health, has not increased much—it was 1.08% in the last quarter, compared to 0.93% a year ago. And only two banks have failed so far this year, compared to four last year and more M G than 100 in 2009Aand A2010 ZINinEthe aftermath of the Great Recession. The situation is better in Kansas. Important measures in banking, such as the return on asset, the capital ratio and the ratio of noncurrent loans to total loans, have notM deteriorated. However, there are AGsigns. some warning The Federal Reserve AZIN E 34 biggest banks stress tests for the nation’s to see whether they can endure current and expected financial stresses. The most recent test from June 2020 showed that a quarter of them will nearly breach the minimum capital ratio if the economy doesn’t recover M G soon A fromAthe recession. Accordingly, the Fed ZIN E shareholder payouts by temporarily restricted the country’s biggest banks.

Understandably, the initial shock of the pandemic news caused a dramatic drop in world MAG trade activity in March through AZIN May. Containers were stuck at E ports or customs because of partial or complete lockdowns, and new social-distancing and sanitary regulations reduced the throughput capacity of ports and MAG AZIN other transportation hubs. The Dmitri Nizovtse E fact that different countries went Professor of Economics into lockdown at different times also didn’t help. There is, however, evidence that companies are adapting to the new environment and learning to operate in it. The most recent U.S. statistics shows the August 2020 trade volume being 13% smaller thanMinAAugust GAZ 2019. Exports INE Perhaps in particular decreased by 18 percent year-over-year. due to the U.S. stimulus measures, the imports are recovering faster and are only 9% lower than a year ago. It is, however, the export drop that is the most disconcerting, because weaker international demand for U.S. goods and services negatively affects the U.S. job market therefore everyone’s long-term M G livelihood. For that to change, we A depend countries’ AZon INother E the global purchasing power and we do not know how long economic recovery will take. The good news, however, is that international supply chains took years to build, and it is unreasonable to expect them to disappear in the matter of months. Once more normalcy returns, these supply chains will still be in place and ready M to A be utilized to the full extent. PHOTO SUBMITTED

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E Unemployment was extremelyIN low prior to the pandemic and economic shut-down. Will we ever get back to where we were before March? M

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AGA The unemployment ZINE rate will not recover to pre-COVID-19 levels until businesses are fully open and government mandates removed. The three states with the most stringent COVID-19 restrictions: Massachusetts, California, and MA Hawaii,GasAreported ZINE by WalletHub, currently have unemployment rates between 11.3% to 12.5%. States with Rosemary Walker the fewest COVID-19 restrictions Professor of Economics are South Dakota, Idaho, and Utah. Their unemployment rate is between 4.1% to 4.8%;M currently some of the lowest rates in AGA the country. ZINE The longer the COVID-19 shutdowns are maintained, the longer it will take for jobs to recover. Since March 1, 2020 we have seen a steady increase in the number of businesses that have closed permanently. YELP’s economic impact page, shows that restaurants; shopping and retail; and beauty and spas were hardest MA hit by permanent closures during AZIN the pandemic. Home G improvement, professional services, E and auto services have had the least number of permanent closures. It will take longer for employment to recover from permanent business closures than temporary closures because an entrepreneur with capital must determine that the economy is robust enough to make the investment in starting a new business. MA AZfollowed Locally, we G have INE the national trend. The unemployment rate in Topeka on March 2020 was 3.0%. With the COVID-19 related shutdowns in the middle of March, the unemployment rate increased dramatically in April 2020 to 11.7%. As the state started re-opening in May, Topeka’s unemployment rate rebounded, declining to 6.5% in August. If theM current COVID-19 restrictions are eased in Topeka, the AGA employment situation ZIN should improve. E

State and local governments are MAG facing budgetary shortfalls due AZIN E to declines in tax revenues. What has happened locally, and do we face long-term issues?

State and local MAG governments rely on a AZIN mix of income, sales, E and property taxes. In 2019, 51% of the State of Kansas’ general fund came from income taxes and 38% from sales taxes. For MAG AZIN Shawnee County, 73% of its E budget came from property taxes. The City of Topeka Paul Byrne received 23% of its revenue Professor of Economics from sales taxes and 18% from property taxes. According to the Bureau of Mand Economic Analysis, wages AGsalaries A INin Kansas declined by $4.5 billion in the 2ndZ quarter. E In spite of this decline, personal income increased by $9.2 billion. The reason for this divergence is that the CARES Act drove a $17.4 billion increase in transfer payments in Kansas. An estimated 44% of the growth in payments came Mtransfer AGA Impact Payments, from the one-time Economic ZINE 10% from the state’s share of unemployment insurance (UI) payments, 28% from the federal government’s $600 per week UI supplement, and 4% from the federal government’s unemployment payments to uncovered gig workers. MAGprograms prevented a These stimulus AZINand sales taxes at devastating drop in income E the height of the shutdown. In Shawnee County, taxable sales for January through June are down only 0.9% from 2019. Increased UI payments will go a long way in preventing large drops in personal income taxes through July (when the MAGprogram expired). Going forward, largest federal AZ N E of Atlanta is predicting the Federal Reserve IBank 3rd quarter GDP growth at a 35.2% annualized rate. While this recovery is strong, it will still leave the economy below pre-pandemic levels. Although property taxes are very stable, in the absence of federal stimulus propping up income MAG and consumer spending, income and sales taxes AZIN will start to reflectEthe weakened economy. Until the measures to prevent the resurgence of COVID-19 are no longer needed and consumers are willing to return to their pre-COVID-19 activities, weakness in sales and income tax TK M revenue should be expected to persist.

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While all successful businesses focus on the bottom line to turn a profit and make payroll, some also look for ways to extend their resourcesM A to make life better for others in the GAZINE community. Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a new kitchen for holiday entertaining, vehicle repair to safely transport children to afterschool activities, or free advertising MAG to AZIN promote the work of area nonprofits, E these three companies demonstrate how desire and resourcefulness can result in transformation. MAG

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2025 SW Urish Rd #110, Topeka, KS 66615 • 785-862-7971 • info@ckbkansas.com CKBKANSAS.COM

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CAMBRIDGE KITCHEN & BATH In a difficult year, the benevolent effects of the Helping Others Support Topeka (HOST) program continue to tangentially multiply, most recently through the Cambridge Kitchen & Bath Room Rescue contest.

AGA closed In March,MCOVID-19 ZINE Cambridge Kitchen & Bathâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s expansive new showroom just two months after it opened and deferred home remodeling plans for many clients. Owners Amber and Zach Leonetti received a MA check and gift Gcards AZ for themselves E the and their employeesIN from Greater Topeka Partnership HOST program to assist in the interim. MAG

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Amber & Zach Leonetti | Owners | Cambridge Kitchen & Bath

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THANKFUL FOR GENEROSITY Grateful for the outpouring of MAGand generosity through that initiative AZ the kindness of other family, friends andINE acquaintances, Amber persuaded her husband and several subcontractors the Leonettis have used for years to commit to providing $5,000 worth of labor to remodel a bathroom or kitchen. MAGabout what “Every time we worried AZIN E would happen to us and our business, someone stepped up, whether it was a surprise check from the Greater Topeka Partnership and gift cards for three full-time employees we had to let go or a client sending us an encouraging card M G or a friend droppingAoff groceries, A ZINE” she said. “We realized we would be fine even with a closed showroom, and we knew we had to do something for someone else.” More than 50 people in all areas of the city submitted photos of MAG bathrooms, kitchens, living rooms and AZ IN bedrooms needing a faceliftE and better functionality. “We knew we’d get pictures of bad bathrooms and ugly kitchens, but we were surprised by the heartfelt stories that came with many of the MAG submissions, ”A said Leonetti. “Some ZIN E had earlier plans to remodel but then a spouse got cancer or had a heart attack.” The Leonettis culled through the stack and eliminated about 15 entries because they were more cosmetic in nature M Gor had structural issues beyond the A scope the company could Aof ZIwhat N deliver. LeonettiEvisited the homes of the remaining 35 entrants before selecting the top 10—nine bathrooms and one kitchen. Since the winning homeowner would still need to be responsible for MAG purchasing AZIN materials used, the Leonettis E gave cost estimates to ensure that finalists, if selected, would be willing to proceed.

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Clifton and LaTonya Lewis were chosen as recipients of a much needed accessible kitchen remodel, compliments of Cambridge Kitchen & Bath’s MAG Room Rescue contest. AZ

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With tears of gratitude on both sides, the Leonettis and the Lewises moved forward with the project. Work began in late October with plans to finish byM theAMonday G AZ INE before Thanksgiving. This year when the Lewises host their two sons’ families, including four grandsons, for a holiday dedicated to celebrating bounty and M blessings, LaTonya A A festive meal will be preparingGtheir ZINE in a completely renovated space. The project includes removing a wall between the dining room and living room, moving a wall back to make a bigger footprint, installing MAGcabinets, and adding custom-built A IN new appliances,Z countertops, E a sink, faucets, backsplash, tile flooring, and paint.

BRIGHT FUTURE the pandemic MAAlthough GA initially put a damper on ZINE Cambridge Kitchen & Bath’s business, people working from home and no longer racing to weekend activities gave many potential clients ample time to MAassess GAZtheir surroundings. “We’re INEbooking for spring DESERVING WINNERS and the phone’s still ringing,” said The winners were LaTonya and Leonetti. “People have saved money Clifton Lewis, who has muscular for vacations they aren’t taking and dystrophy and uses a wheelchair. The deciding instead to update their kitchen space was difficult for him to homes because they’re spending maneuver and a wall cut her off from MAG A more time in their space and seeing ZINE participating in family conversations things they can no longer tolerate.” taking place in the adjacent dining and Although the showroom isn’t living rooms. open, Leonetti still meets clients “After hearing their story and seeing there for one-on-one consultations their space, I just knew we had to do this at its 21st Street and Urish location. project,” said Leonetti. “But I also knew “We are always looking for MAG that the cost of this project would go well ways to help others any way we AZ over what we’d originally committed to. I INEcan,” said Leonetti. “It was nice had to go back and sell my husband and to know that the community was the subcontractors on it, but after meeting doing the same for us and the Lewises and hearing their story, they other small businesses during jumped on board quickly.” this uncertain time.”

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ZIN Capper Foundation received donations and matching funds totaling E more than $33,000 with inclusion in a promotional package driven by Envista’s EnvistaCares Challenge. MAG

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In the spring of 2019, Tara Dimick, “With our national sponsorship chief business development officer at media buy, I just kept coming back to Envista Credit Union, and Tim Kolling, where my heart is and that’s here in senior marketing consultant at Alpha our community,” she said. “Tim took Mtime Media, came up with a collaborative the to listen and helped us find AGA INE to showcase our fundraising challenge for nonprofit a workableZ solution agencies to enhance their visibility recipients as well as our credit union.” and promote additional community Each recipient receives $10,791 in contributions through media exposure on-air advertising across four stations: they would not otherwise have been Country 106.9, 94.5 Country, 580 able to afford. WIBW and 98.5 Jack FM. Additionally, MAagencies Dimick enlisted Kolling’s GAZ benefited from news INE three billboard placements assistance in parlaying a sizable media conferences, buy that Envista had that sponsored and Envista’s website, email and social a national organization into monthly media promotion. segments featuring local agency “Just like our nonprofit partners, interviews as a complement to the we’re always asking ourselves how we credit union’s storytelling promotional can maximize our budget and make MAG dollars go further,” said Dimick. “I love approach. A

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“We’ve always considered Bartlett & West a leader in their profession, but they’re also a leader in our community. As we went through the redevelopment process with the City and private sector,

Bartlett & West was there hand-in-hand with us the entire time.” Vince Frye, President & CEO

Driving community and industry forward, together.

www.bartlettwest.com

Downtown Topeka, Inc.

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ZINof The Boys & Girls Club of Topeka and The Topeka Chapter E the Links, Inc. are examples of two organizations that, combined with other recipients, have generated more than $287,500 in much needed charitable donations through the EnvistaCares Challenge since its inception in April 2019. MAG

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stories, so giving agencies the chance to have an executive, M G board member or service recipientAtell story on air about Aa Z IN an agency’s impact is really E gratifying.” ENVISTACARES CHALLENGE The EnvistaCares Challenge launched in April 2019 with the credit union’sM commitment to provide $2,500 AGfunds in matching each participating AZIto NE the first few agency. Envista selected organizations from its membership and suggestions from employees serving on boards. “We originally planned to launch in May, but we discovered through LifeHouse Child Advocacy Center, our

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of Kansas, an organization thatG AZIN E provides age-appropriate business instruction in area schools. “What really got the numbers to go up was when agencies like the YWCA, Doorstep and the Jayhawk MAG challenge Theatre got other matching A IN gifts for their month,” DimickZsaid. E “It’s fun to work with enthusiastic organizations as they figure out ways to come up with new dollars and then step in and be a part of making the magic happen.” MAG In 2019, Envista Credit AZINUnion E donated $22,500 to nine agencies that raised an additional $132,372.87. This year, as of September the credit union has contributed $17,500 to seven agencies combined with MAinGfunds they raised $137,683.24 AZIN To date, for a total of $155,183.24. E the two campaigns have raised $287,556.11.

A COMMUNITY PARTNER The EnvistaCares Challenge MAG the credit union’s core exemplifies AZIN Eimpact, unity, values of integrity, passion and exceeding expectations. “We hope people see us as a community partner they can trust,” Dimick said. “We’re always Mevaluating AGA how we can serve the ZINbetter community E and not just do what we’ve always done.” Although concerns about COVID-19 prompted Envista first agency, that April was child abuse to move its April 2020 recipient prevention month so we moved up our to December, the EnvistaCares timetable,” said Dimick. “Since then MAG A Challenge resumed in May with the Z Against we’ve tried to fit agencies with months RaceIN E Breast Cancer. that make sense with their mission.” “We didn’t want to pause the For example, this year Junior program very long because a lot of League of Topeka was featured in agencies needed funds to continue October because of its five-day Little doing their work,” she said. “We Black Dress initiative to promote moved news conferences to video MAand awareness for generational poverty GAZ and did some fun launches with IN community instability. aE virtual torch passing hands to Other organizations have joined continue highlighting the initiative the effort to boost funds for their so agencies wouldn’t lose momentum favorite agencies too. Kona Ice donated in raising money for their services.” a portion of its proceeds from area Envista is currently evaluating businesses that it visited during a whether the EnvistaCares MAG month featuring Junior Achievement Challenge will extend into 2021. AZ

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ZMoore, INE owners of Hoyt’s Truck Center, Hoyt & Laurie support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Topeka and the Family Service & Guidance Center in order to help kids find whatever their passion or purpose might be.

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A HELPING HAND When Hoyt Moore was in his Marvin Spees, owner of Capital The same is true for the company’s tweens and early teens, he and his City Oil and a colleague, asked work with Family Service & Guidance three sisters rode to the Boys & Girls Moore to accompany him on a tour MAschool Center, an agency that provides mental Club on an agency bus after GAZ of the agency with its chief executive INEofficer, Dawn McWilliams. health programs for area youth. In to play games and sports while their AGAmonetary addition to anM annual mother worked the evening shift at a “I knew right away that I ZINE donation, Hoyt’s Truck Center has also packing plant in Greeley, Colorado. wanted to partner with the agency assisted the agency with transportation “We didn’t have money for by donating service work on their issues, including once procuring a day care so without the Boys & vehicles,” Moore said. “I know from replacement van. Over a Thanksgiving Girls Club, we would have been left my own experience how important AGMoore, weekend the Moore family flew to Salt to our own devices,”M said it is to get kids picked up and AZIN E dropped off safely and dependably.” Lake City purchase one they’d found owner of Hoyt’s Truck Center. “Kids Mto AG through one of A the like us needed a place to go and Ztruck If a tire blows or a bus or van INE center’s online resources. guidance, although I’m not sure I breaks down, Moore or one of his “We drove it back to Topeka and fully realized all that in the moment. team members arrives immediately had a lot of fun on that trip,” Moore I just enjoyed playing basketball and to assist. said. “And it taught our kids about foosball with my friends.” “Every one of our employees MAG Moore giving versus receiving, especially After high school, buys into our philosophy about AZIN M E during the holidays. ” A worked for a trucking company taking care of the business and G AZ I N Hoyt’s Truck Center hosts an as a diesel technician. In 1987, he E taking care of others too,” he said. annual customer appreciation event moved to Topeka with his employer “We’re able to absorb some costs and every Flag Day (June 14) with food and and worked as a mechanic. When fix the vehicles at a reasonable rate festivities that include classic cars and his employer went out of business, and it’s gratifying to us to be able to trucks and some of their own vehicles. Moore bought a truck and started MAG in 1991. He added do that.” The company has also sponsored his own company To show their appreciation, AZIN MA G AZ E Hoyt’s Touch-A-Truck, a repair shop in 1993. Today, McWilliams and the kids visit Hoyt’s INE an annual downtown event that celebrates the industry and Truck Center employs 75 people Truck Center to deliver Christmas kindles childhood ideas about potential in three locations and offers truck gifts and tour the shop. career paths. and trailer repairs, maintenance “They don’t really understand “I’ve always believed that God services, rental and leasing options, everything that we do but they think put us on earth to do a task, and if you emergency road assistance and a the business is cool,” Moore said. MAG M find out what it is, you’ll succeed at gear shop. “While they’re here, I talk to a few of AGA AZIN Z E I it, ” he said. N them about my time with the Boys E “My whole life I’ve loved mechanical things and taking care PAST MEETS PRESENT & Girls Club as a kid and they’re of problems and that fascination has Moore was busy growing a receptive to that.” created a good life for me, my family successful business and raising three When Moore is out in the and my employees. We all appreciate children with his wife, Laurie, when community, he’s often wearing a the opportunities we’ve had and the a serendipitous tour of Boys & Girls company logo shirt and children MClubs M AGAof Topeka eight years ago chance to support kids in finding A will approach him to thank himG A ZINE Z I N whatever their passion or purpose allowed him to merge his past and and his team for the services they E might be. ” TK present. provide.

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BUSINESS NEWS

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Kansas Chamber Releases Workforce Report And Recommendations The Kansas Chamber released its The Challenge to MAG Compete—Kansas Workforce AZIN 2020 report. The report uses E research, a review of national best practices, and interviews with Kansas business, education and workforce development leaders to learn MAG what can be done to improve AZIN E workforce development and how education can better align with the staffing needs of our state’s industries. It identifies 20 recommendations in five areas of focus to enhance the effectiveness of Kansas’ efforts to educate, train, recruit and retain a qualified MAG workforce. AZ

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Junior Achievement of Kansas Releases 6th Annual Edition of Kansas College & Career Guide The Guide is a tool that assists students, teachers, counselors, parents and others by directing students toward information on future careers. It provides lists of fields MAG of study and where students take these programs at Acan ZIN Ein Kansas. postsecondary education institutions

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Plug & Play Topeka Officially Launches Silicon Valley-based and Play, a global MAPlug G specializes ZINE in creating innovation platform thatA industry-specific accelerator programs, today held its inaugural pitch competition event in the animal health and ag tech space. The program aims to bring innovative startups from around the world to Kansas every six months, building upon the region’s fast-growing robust animal health industry. The MAand Gthrough AZINthree-month “accelerator” startups will go E programs aimed at helping the businesses get off the ground. There is a 70 percent average success rate for companies that go through a Plug and Play accelerator program, measured in follow-on capital raised. Startups selected for the program will receive benefits including office space, mentorship, business development, pitch polishing, deal flow and potential Minvestment.

ZINE Governor Laura Kelly Signs Proclamation for National Business Women’s Week The proclamation details that working women MAG constitute 75.9 million of AZIN the nation’s workforce, E and almost 57.1% of United States workers are women. Additionally, women-owned businesses account for 36% of all U.S. businesses, generating $2.5 trillion in sales.

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2020 Coolest Thing Made in Kansas Winner Announced MAG After four weeks of competition, AZIN E the Kansas Manufacturing Council (KMC) awarded the EMP Shield the 2020 Coolest Thing Made In Kansas. The EMP Shield is made by Topeka company, EMP Shield LLC. Custom Built Dredge, Custom Dredge Works, MA Inc. of Topeka also madeGitA toZ theIN E final four in the competition.

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Local Company Pioneering the Use of a Bacteria and Making Global Impact MS Biotec is an agricultural technology success story on a global scale, operating in the state of Kansas. The company is pioneering the use of a bacteria that is native to a cow’s rumen, a part of the stomach, to manage diet transitions in cattle.

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