TK Business Magazine - March 2023 [Corrected]

Laces

Lifelong friends Chris White-Ready, Nelson Jones and Canon Fields recently opened the high-end sneaker store, Laces.

Photos by JOHN BURNS

Planning for Financial Independence

Martha Linsner with The Trust Company of Kansas shares strategies to help you plan for retirement to ensure your financial independence.

Topeka Business Hall of Fame

Get to know this year’s Junior Achievement Topeka Business Hall of Fame Laureates: Marsha Sheahan, Dan Foltz, Keith Warta and DL Smith.

Business Transition Planning

10

Creative Problem-Solving Strategies for a Rapidly Changing World

62

Connor England and SJ Hazim of Creative Pathways & Means share ways to shift how you view and approach problems while providing tools and methods to create new solutions.

12

Lessons from a 90-Year-Old Business

64

The story behind MRH Insurance Group is a twist on the traditional tale of a business being handed down from father to son.

30

Miranda Carmona with Goodell, Stratton, Edmonds & Palmer, LLP provides steps to help lessen the stress of transferring your family business.

Leadership Greater Topeka

32

LGT is a leadership program that identifies aspiring and established leaders from the community and introduces them to the opportunities and needs of Topeka and Shawnee County. Meet the Leadership Greater Topeka Class of 2023.

WestSide Story

Kurtis Wells, owner of WestSide Stamp & Awards, recently expanded his product offerings with the purchase of T-Shirts Etc. and Topeka Spirit.

ChatGPT Explained

78

Bob Boncello, Ph.D. with Washburn University School of Business explains ChatGPT and discusses what’s next.

The Business Agenda

82

Get the inside scoop on the legislative agendas from the Kansas Chamber, Topeka Chamber and the regional chamber partnership, METL as they work for business growth.

58

One-on-One with WU President JuliAnn Mazachek

94

TK talks with JuliAnn Mazachek as she steps into the top role at Washburn University.

Photo by JENNIFER GOETZ

Photo by JENNIFER GOETZ

Photo by JOHN BURNS

CONTRIBUTORS

PUBLISHER & EDITOR Tara Dimick

CREATIVE DIRECTOR & DESIGNER Janet Faust

MANAGING PARTNER Braden Dimick & SALES DIRECTOR braden@tkmagazine.com

COVER PHOTOGRAPHER John Burns

WRITERS

Kim Gronniger

Lisa Loewen

Chris Marshall

Samantha Marshall

PHOTOGRAPHERS

John Burns

Braden Dimick

Jennifer Goetz

CONTRIBUTING EXPERTS

Bob Boncello, Ph.D.

Alan Cobb

Connor England

SJ Hazim

Miranda Carmona

Martha Linsner

Eric Stafford

MARKETING ASSISTANT

Cordell Dimick

2023 TK Business Magazine is published by E2 Communications, Inc., 7512 SW Falcon St., Topeka, KS 66610, (785) 438-7773. Reproduction or use of this publication in any manner without written permission of the publisher is prohibited.

Every effort was made to ensure accuracy of the information in this publication as of press time. The publisher assumes no responsibility of any part for the content of any advertisement in this publication, including any errors and omissions therein. E2 Communications, Inc. makes no endorsement, representation or warranty regarding any goods or services advertised or listed in this publication. Listings and advertisements are provided by the subject company. E2 Communications, Inc. shall not be responsible or liable for any inaccuracy, omission or infringement of any third party’s right therein, or for personal injury or any other damage or injury whatsoever. By placing an order for an advertisement, the advertiser agrees to indemnify the publisher against any claims relating to the advertisement.

PLANNING FOR FINANCIAL INDEPENDENCE

30s Planning for Retirement in Your 30s

The earlier the retirement planning starts, the better the chances of achieving financial independence. For the thirty-something, planning is typically not at the forefront of one’s mind. After all, it is 30 years away, and there are likely more immediate concerns, such as paying off student loans, starting a family or purchasing a first home.

Here are several ways to start thinking about the future now and steps to set retirement plans in motion.

Automate savings

Establishing a disciplined approach to save money for the future is key. Participation in a workplace retirement savings plan is the easiest way to contribute automatically. Focus more on the idea of starting to save sooner than later rather than stressing over how much is being set aside.

Strive for 10%

By setting aside 10% starting in your 30s, enough should be saved by the time you reach retirement age in your 60s to have a comfortable life.

Open a Roth IRA

If you are maxing out your workplace retirement plan and want to save more—or you don't have a plan through work—consider opening a Roth IRA.

Ask for a raise

Check out sites such as Payscale.com and Glassdoor.com to research salaries for particular jobs and learn the art of negotiating pay. Then funnel any raises or bonuses into a retirement account.

MARTHA L. LINSNER, CTFA President & Chief Operating Officer The Trust Company of Kansas

Like many areas in life, having a plan to meet a goal is critical. The same holds true when planning for retirement. There are many aspects to consider—age, health, location, hobbies, travel, inheritance, gifting, taxes, on and on. So, when and where do you begin?

Well, the sooner the better in order to gain financial independence.

Invest wisely

Choosing the right asset mix is critical. Deciding on the right mix and sticking to it until goals or circumstances change significantly is a major step toward investment success.

Do not time the market

Often, investors' biggest mistake is letting emotions rule buying and selling decisions. Don't panic and liquidate when the markets fall. It is best to choose a particular investment strategy based on your risk tolerance and stick with it.

Eliminate debt

Debt can get in the way of saving for retirement. The higher your debt levels and the longer it takes you to pay it off, the less money you will have to set aside for retirement.

How much should you have saved for retirement by age 40?

By the time you are 30, you should have saved half of your annual salary. By age 40, you should have twice your annual salary saved for retirement.

40s 50s

If, when you reach your 50s, and an uneasy feeling comes over you because you have not saved enough for retirement; don’t panic. Though you can’t expect to match someone who started planning in their 30s, your cause is far from lost. Steps to take at this point include start saving and protecting the money you have, create additional income streams and cut spending.

Age 65 is a common retirement age because that is when Medicare health coverage begins. Enrolling in Medicare isn't the only thing to do at 65. Other decisions include:

Purchase supplemental insurance

Medicare won't cover all health care expenses. On average, expect it to cover about 50-60% of the health care costs. To gain additional coverage many retirees purchase supplemental insurance.

Decide when to start Social Security—now or later

You need to carefully weigh out the pros and cons of starting Social Security at 65. There is no one “best age” for everyone to start collecting Social Security. Ultimately, it is your choice.

Consolidate IRAs/other retirement accounts

If you have money in a retirement plan at work, you’ll need to determine if you should roll this money over to an IRA. It may be much easier to manage your retirement savings if you consolidate all your retirement accounts into one IRA.

Taking retirement account withdrawals now or later

The IRS requires you to take distributions from IRAs and other qualified retirement plans starting at age 70½. However, you can withdraw funds before this age, and sometimes for tax reasons, it makes sense to do so.

When it comes to planning for retirement, a financial planner can help development a comprehensive plan to assist with reaching goals and accountability to those goals. Finding a wealth management provider who can do a good job managing your assets, but also one who has access to a comprehensive financial planning software that offers clients both, goals-based and cash-flow-based, analyses and projections may be the best solution to achieve financial independence. TK

Freedom to carry the world on your shoulders.

Retiring at 65 and the decisions you’ll need to make 65

Whatever your age, consider a wealth management service advisor

By LISA LOEWEN

The Junior Achievement Topeka Business Hall of Fame recognizes esteemed business leaders in the Topeka area. Business Hall of Fame laureates are individuals who have not only forged successful careers but have also helped strengthen the community.

This year’s laureates, Marsha Sheahan, Dan Foltz, Keith Warta and DL Smith, have many things in common: an incredible work ethic, a deep love for Topeka, and a passion to pay it forward.

Photos by JOHN BURNS

Photos by JOHN BURNS

JOHN & JOELLE FEDERICO RESIDENCE

“I would not hesitate to recommend Schwerdt Design Group to anyone looking for residential design The talent and expertise they were able to marshal within the firm and put towards our home design was nothing short of incredible. We couldn’t have been happier with the entire experience ”

John J Federico, J D Federico // Duerst Consulting Group

Marsha Sheahan has served the Topeka community for as long as she can remember, spending the majority of her career (35 years) acting as vice president of public relations for the Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce. During this time, she over-saw the marketing, publications, website development, special events, and leadership programs for the Topeka Chamber. While her marketing and storytelling skills enabled her to excel at her job, it was her forward-thinking approach to business and community partnerships that helped set the stage for growth in Topeka.

Photo by JOHN BURNS

MAKING THE CONNECTION

The daughter of a business owner, Marsha saw firsthand the risks and rewards of entrepreneurship. She watched her father, who owned Martin Lumber, maneuver the complexities of inventory, marketing, staffing, record keeping and compliance.

“He wouldn’t let me get near the place, though,” Marsha said with a laugh. “He thought it was too male-oriented with bad language and other behaviors he didn’t want me exposed to.”

The daughter of a homemaker, Marsha also witnessed the importance of volunteering in the community and taking care of those less fortunate. She grew up in a close-knit neighborhood where the mothers taught them more than just valuable life skills.

“Our moms taught us those skills you don’t see so much today— how to cook, how to maintain a well-run household, how to play Bridge, and the art of community organizing,” Marsha said.

Every summer, the kids in the neighborhood would put on a community carnival, complete with carnival games and food. After the work was over and the money was counted, one of the moms would take them down to Let’s Help, where they would donate every last cent.

BEGINNING THE STORY

Marsha’s love for storytelling began early. While still in middle school, she helped publish a neighborhood newspaper. She and some friends interviewed people throughout the neighborhood about topics relevant to those

within the small community and even sold advertising to cover the cost of printing and distribution. At Topeka High, she was involved with student government and was co-editor of The World newspaper, and at Kansas State University, she worked on the Royal Purple yearbook staff while earning her home economics and journalism degree.

“My dream job was to write for a magazine, but there were no writing jobs available in 1971, especially for women,” Marsha said. While it wasn’t the magazine writing job she initially hoped for, Marsha spent seven years as special project editor for The Menninger Foundation before joining the Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce in 1979.

As part of her early public relations duties, Marsha was tasked with helping drive support for three key initiatives that leadership felt was essential for long term growth: establishing a community foundation, building a municipal airport and strengthening the reputation of Topeka as place to live and work.

BUILDING CONSENSUS

She set to work, enlisting the help of fellow Junior League members Barb Haney, Janet Kerr and Sandy Vogel. Junior League of Topeka provided funding for them to attend a grant making seminar in Nebraska, where the concept of a community foundation began to take shape.

Marsha credits Junior League with giving her the confidence— through resources, training and mentorship—to build the

community consensus required for the Topeka Community Foundation to become a reality. Armed with a $10K grant from Junior League to plant the seeds of the foundation, Marsha was determined to find the support to help it take root.

“We [Junior League] had a lot of great ideas and the time and the drive and the knowledge to do the work needed to set up a community foundation. But we were women, young women, which meant we didn’t have the clout we needed for business leaders to take us seriously.”

So, the group found the clout, enlisting the help of community leaders such as John Stauffer, Philip Elwood, Bal Jeffrey and Carolyn Alexander, and three years later, in 1983, the Topeka Community Foundation was established.

Today, the Topeka Community Foundation has nearly $100 million in assets and manages almost 400 funds established by businesses, nonprofit organizations, families and individuals.

FOSTERING LEADERSHIP

During that same period, the Chamber discovered itself in a leadership void as it underwent a shift from the influence of major CEOs to more of a grassroots approach to leadership and struggled to find a more diverse board. Marsha played an instrumental role in helping found Leadership Greater Topeka in 1984.

“I was behind the scenes,” Marsha said, “but always pushing

to help Topeka grow as a healthy, well-rounded community that wasn’t one-faceted.”

To achieve that growth, Leadership Greater Topeka sought to teach class members confidence and an understanding of their own skills to help them give back to the community and build consensus on a plan for the future. While that mission has stayed the same, Leadership Greater Topeka has shifted its focus from “know your city” to “how to be a good board member” to “how to solve community challenges and problems.”

With the help of mentor Maureen “Twink” Lynch, Marsha devised a curriculum that delved into boardsmanship, strategic planning, building consensus and discovering root causes.

“I am really proud of that,” Marsha said. “People who go through the program today are now viewed as community resources.”

PUSHING IDEAS FORWARD

Once again working behind the scenes to facilitate change, Marsha found herself using her connections to help bring people to the table during the Heartland Visioning process. Those leaders who had participated in the leadership program were now sitting at the table to help build consensus for a growth plan for Topeka. Those people brought diversity of thought and represented a community approach to the process.

“Leadership in a community is everyone’s responsibility, not just

on the shoulders of a select few,” Marsha said. “The world is different. We can’t do things today the way they were done even 10 years ago.”

For Marsha, leadership means finding shared experiences.

“All people have similar experiences in life,” Marsha said. “They just experience them differently.”

STRENGTHENING COMMUNITY

Marsha views herself as a community builder, someone who helps those outside looking in to develop the skills and confidence to speak up and ask for a seat at the table.

Crediting a strong mother who taught her the value of helping others, Marsha says she experiences almost a maternal sentiment when she watches someone come through the leadership program, obtain the knowledge and skills to maximize their aptitudes, and then be recognized for it.

“I swell with pride knowing I influenced that. I didn’t do it for them, but I gave them a subtle push to follow their own dream and the resources to experience personal and professional growth,” Marsha said.

Marsha is excited to see Topeka move forward with ideas that have been decades in the making. She believes the Greater Topeka Partnership, GO Topeka, Topeka Chamber and Forge, have all made huge strides in the past few years because they are embracing

different ideas about what makes a strong and vibrant community.

“It isn’t enough for businesses and individuals to make charitable contributions and donations,” Marsha said. “A strong community doesn’t just happen because a few people want it to. It takes involvement from everyone.”

ENJOYING THE VIEW

Although she is retired and enjoying more personal time, often with her three adult children and their families, Marsha still finds herself mentoring and connecting people with resources. Just recently, while getting her hair cut, she discovered that her stylist wanted to grow her business but didn’t know how to make that happen. Marsha suggested she meet with Glenda Washington at GO Topeka to learn more about available resources to make that dream come true.

Marsha and her husband, Bill, who once served as a commissioner of streets and public improvements for the city, and then owned his own architectural firm, celebrated 50 years of marriage last May. Remember that close-knit community she grew up in? He grew up there as well. They have known each other their entire lives. When she was in college, they happened to go out for a beer, then another one. And thanks to their mothers, who already had the church reserved before he proposed, more than 50 years later, they are still going out for a beer.

Dan Foltz is no stranger to hard work. Growing up on a farm, the youngest of eight children, he spent long hours on a tractor. He also spent long hours working in the bowling alley and restaurant his dad built in Garnett, Kansas, where he grew up.

“That experience taught me how to do a lot of different things, but loafing wasn’t one of them,” Dan said. “I knew how to fix a bowling pinsetter, fry cook and wait tables before I could drive.”

He didn’t resent the long, often grueling hours, however, because it taught him to learn to enjoy work, no matter what he was doing. The tractor provided quiet soul-searching time, and the bowling alley let him interact with people and learn the art of customer service. And above everything else, he learned to think critically, and problem solve at a moment’s notice.

Photo by JOHN BURNS

TURNING POINT

Losing his father in a car accident during Dan’s junior year of high school, altered his vision for the future and set him on the path to a college degree. That path was a little winding for Dan. He spent a semester at Pittsburg State, then the next one at Allen County Community College. His sophomore year found him at Johnson County Community College, but he then followed a friend to Kansas State University, where he finished his last two years and received his business degree.

He had been working summers at a construction job in Kansas City, which is where Dan also met his future wife, Monica. So, when a small Topeka contractor offered him a job after graduation, he took it. Dan spent the next 10 years at Tefft & Donaldson Contractors, learning the intricacies of the construction business. Placed in charge of safety for the company’s largest client, Southwestern Bell Telephone, Dan found himself on the jobsite, where he learned about telecom and switch rooms. During this same time, Monica began her career with a large pharmaceutical company, where they both learned about navigating a large corporate structure and the power of focused training programs.

“It was basically a 10-year apprenticeship for me,” Dan said, “that, along with earning my MBA from Washburn, set us on a path to a successful future.”

ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT

After Tefft passed away, Dan was faced with a choice: take over someone else’s company or start his own. Monica’s career provided a strong foundation for their family, which now included sons Paul and David, so they chose to “build a better mousetrap, so to speak.” With the help of an experienced project manager/estimator, Neil Fisher, and two superintendents, Terry Dlugosh and Dave Hayes, KBS Constructors opened for business in October 1989. By November, they had landed their first job building a telephone switch room for Southwestern Bell. The only caveat was that it had to be completed by February.

“We worked round the clock to finish that job on time,” Dan said. “But we got it done on time and on budget.”

That led to additional jobs for Southwestern Bell as well as work for the State of Kansas and the University of Kansas. By 1995, KBS employed more than 30 people and was working on 15 jobs at a time. That same year, Southwestern Bell changed to a strategic alliance model where they only hired one contractor to manage all jobs within a specific state.

EXPONENTIAL GROWTH

Dan used the knowledge he acquired while earning his MBA and the experience of his partners to develop a business plan that incorporated the Total Quality

Management model into the strategic alliance thought process and pitched it to Southwestern Bell. Winning that five-year contract meant hiring almost 100 new employees and opening satellite offices across the state. Throughout that growth, Dan refused to compromise on quality.

“Two years into our contract, Bell hired us to take over Oklahoma as well.”

From 1995 to 2000, KBS revenues topped $30 million a year. But that success was only possible because of the company focus on quality control and expertise on critical projects. Dan brought in Kansas State University professors to build training programs, and employees underwent 20-40 hours of continuing education each year. KBS still conducts six training sessions per year.

“Total Quality Management is a huge part of our history. It is part of our company DNA,” Dan said.

OVERCOMING ROADBLOCKS

After so much success in such a short amount of time, Dan suddenly found himself faced with a gut-wrenching reality. At the end of their 5-year contract, AT&T, who had taken over operations for Southwestern Bell, did not renew their agreement, meaning KBS would lose a significant portion of its business.

“I gave myself about a minute to panic and then began exploring other opportunities,” Dan said.

“I knew we excelled at critical environment construction, so I asked myself, ‘who else needs that?”’

The logical answer was a company with projects closely related to work KBS had already been doing: Sprint! Immediately they began bidding on projects for Sprint they would have passed over when working with Southwestern Bell and were rapidly able to replace more than half the lost SWB volume. In addition to those Sprint projects, KBS diversified into jobs with rail, energy and manufacturing. BNSF, Evergy, Hill’s Pet Nutrition and Michelin are now their largest clients.

“That rough patch we faced was actually a blessing because it allowed us to diversify. It opened our eyes to other clients that we now have key relationships with,” Dan said.

THE POWER OF PEOPLE

Under Dan’s leadership, KBS Constructors has seen incredible success, but Dan will be the first to give the credit to the people he has had the privilege of working with over the years. Dan has seen firsthand the importance of employee training and development and has worked to create a culture of continual learning and caring.

KBS adopted the “Open Book Management” system where every team member is taught how the

company works, their role in its success and how they participate in the company’s results.

“I have worked to chart a course where everyone is pulling together in the same direction,” Dan said. “It makes it less likely someone will rock the boat.”

That focus on training has even become ingrained in the succession planning currently underway at KBS.

“As we look at what the future holds for the company, we learned we needed to educate future CEOs and people in other leadership positions about what it means to be a leader,” Dan said.

That means holding CEO roundtables and bringing in experts to offer advice and training in a variety of managerial and leadership aspects.

NO REGRETS

As Dan looks back at his professional and personal life, he has a few words of advice for those following in his footsteps.

“Pay attention to the details, but don’t get lost in them.”

“You will never have all the information. If you over analyze, you may never move forward.”

“Transparency and openness is how you build trust.”

But most importantly, “Give of yourself and you will find that you get back much more than you have given.”

Keith Warta is a true son of Kansas. Raised in Newton, Kansas, with degrees from both Kansas State University and the University of Kansas, he has never had any desire to be anyplace else.

Kansas made him the man he is today. Growing up hauling hay in the summers taught him the value of a hard day’s work; his parents taught him the importance of being part of the fabric of the community; his extended family exposed him to the benefits of charitable giving; and his brother introduced him to the field of engineering.

“I wanted a career that would let me use my mind and let me be part of something bigger than myself,” Keith said.

Photo by JOHN BURNS

NO PLACE LIKE HOME

After completing his master’s degree in civil engineering, Keith never even considered looking for a job anywhere other than Kansas. And when Bartlett & West offered him a job, he found more than a career, he found a home.

“Bartlett & West was a perfect match for what I wanted to do with my formative years,” Keith said. “We are wholly employeeowned, so it provides a huge sense of team. Plus, it has allowed me to build a community—literally.”

Thirty-eight years later, it still feels like home to Keith. Although, like with any family, Bartlett & West had its share of growing pains. One year into his career, the company transitioned into an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), an employee benefit plan that enables employees to own part or all of the company they work for. While this transition ultimately benefited everyone, it took a while to iron out the hiccups.

“We didn’t know how to be an effective ESOP at first,” Keith said. “We didn’t know how to make decisions or reward people as owners. It has been a learning process over the past four decades, but judging by our success, I think we finally have a handle on it.”

THE POWER OF TEAMWORK

When Keith takes an introspective look back at his professional and personal growth, one fact stands out: very few things are accomplished individually. Keith is proud of the team at Bartlett & West and the efforts made by the company to promote employee development in all aspects of business, not just their areas of expertise.

“Through our employee training and workshops, we have taught people to read financial statements, so they have a better understanding of the health of the company,” Keith said. “We also promote emotional intelligence and foster innovation.”

The company has also made a huge investment in promoting mental wellness to help employees embrace their vulnerabilities and be more open about asking for education and support. The benefits of these development programs extend beyond the workplace, helping employees manage financial, family and wellness issues at home as well.

“Well-rounded employees make for a better place to work, and ultimately, a more successful company,” Keith said.

Even the most successful companies must be willing to adapt to changing employee needs and expectations. With an eye on the future, Keith says more emphasis needs to be placed on an enhanced appreciation for equality in the workplace and better work/ family balance that offers employees flexible work hours and more opportunity for growth.

ADVICE FOR THE NEXT GENERATION

Keith offered a few pieces of advice for the next generation of business leaders with the first being to take advantage of every learning opportunity to expand their minds and meet new people.

“Find a place to work that is a living company making a positive impact on employees and the community,” Keith said. “Once you find that place, get in there and look for opportunities to get involved.”

That is the path that Keith took and one that has brought him both professional and personal rewards. Through his work with Bartlett & West, Keith has been able to help lead the community to a better tomorrow, working to implement the holistic strategies for community put forth by Momentum 22 and now Momentum 27.

“Exploring the big picture excites me the most,” Keith said. “It is exciting to see elected officials, business leaders and non-profit organizations working together to make progress on our shared vision. Everyone seems to finally be rowing in the same direction.”

LESSONS LEARNED

Growth, both in humans and in business, results in maturity. And one aspect of maturity is accepting uncertainty. Keith learned that lesson the hard way.

“When I was younger, I spent a lot of time worrying, especially about things that I couldn’t control,” Keith said. “I had to learn to let go of some of that worry and just have faith that things will work out.”

Keith says having faith—the belief that things will be OK, is essential.

“That faith in a better company and a better community is what keeps us striving to be better,” Keith said.

While Keith is pleased with the strides Topeka has made in the past decade, he is not willing to sit back and become complacent because there is more work to be done. Keith would like to see Topeka’s Net Promoter Score (measuring if residents recommend Topeka as a place to live and work to others) move up the scale. He wants all Topekans to be proud of where they live.

“Progress is good, but we have more to accomplish,” Keith said. “We need to look for access to opportunity for the entire community and give all stakeholders a seat at the table.”

Oakland Wastewater Treatment Plant: Producing renewable fuel to drive city revenue and environmental sustainability

By producing energy and selling to the power grid, we avoid flaring and expect to cut down on our operating costs. It’s rare to find a municipal project that generates revenue. This is a huge win for the City of Topeka.

Sylvia Davis, Deputy Director of Operations City of Topeka Utilities Department

Driving community and industry forward, together.

www.bartlettwest.com

“Bartlett & West helped us understand the long-term potential in biogas.

”

DL Smith is a man of faith. He has faith that God will keep him on the right path; faith in the love and support of his family; faith that his business would be successful through good times and bad; and faith in strength of the community that he loves.

“God should be part of everything you do,” DL said. “Faith improves all aspects of your life.”

DL’s faith has served him well over his 80 years of life, and it just keeps getting stronger.

Donald "DL"

smith

Photo by JOHN BURNS

A FATHER’S WISDOM

DL grew up knowing the value of hard work. The son of two working parents, he also knew the value of a dollar. When he was 12, DL’s father bought him a lawnmower so he could earn some extra money in the summers. His dad would line up the customers and handle the money. At the end of the summer, when DL went to collect the money he had earned through many a sweat-filled day, his dad just shook his hand and said, “Congratulations, you just about have that mower paid off.”

“That taught me a valuable lesson. That business is more complex than just doing the work,” DL said.

FALTERING FOOTSTEPS

After graduating from Hayden High School, DL went on to attend Washburn University with the intention of pursuing some form of engineering degree. Like many students who head off to college, he had a really good time. So good in fact that he ended up on academic probation.

“I don’t hide from my faults,” DL said. “They are part of what made me the man I am today.”

After his second year of college, with a new wife at home, DL decided he needed to get a little more serious about his future and start supporting his family. Some electricians he knew

encouraged him to do a four-year apprenticeship program to become a journeyman electrician.

“That apprenticeship was wonderful. I learned on the job, and it got me excited about electrical engineering again,” DL said.

He embraced that excitement and even though he was working as a project manager at a small electrical company in addition to taking night classes at Washburn, he enrolled in a summer class at Kansas State to explore the electrical engineering program.

“This time I was a little more serious,” DL said with a chuckle. “I now had three kids at home and couldn’t afford to goof off.”

DIVINE INTERVENTION

In the midst of juggling all those commitments, DL’s fatherin-law came to him with a business idea. His friend owned a small electrical business, and he was ready to sell it. He told DL, “This is a good opportunity and I think you should do it.”

DL wasn’t quite so confident. Yes, he was an electrician, but he wasn’t a businessman, at least not yet. And it would be hard on his family. His wife, Suzy had just quit her job to stay home with their three children, and DL would have to leave his job with benefits and a regular paycheck. However, he agreed to meet with the owner and discuss the terms of sale.

“He offered me the business for $6,000,” DL said. “I told him I didn’t have $6,000. He offered to lend me $7,500, and I thought to myself, ‘If not now, when?’”

He took the proposal back home to Suzy, whose first reaction was panic. As the conversation went further into the night, panic gave way to possibilities.

DL and Suzy chose the now. They accepted the offer and in 1972, DL Smith Electric opened its doors for business. That first month was enlightening. DL learned the hard way that just because you have customers, it doesn’t mean they pay their bills on time. Thankfully, he had that extra $1,500 in the bank.

“I was scared to death, but I had to have faith,” DL said. “I didn’t know what I was doing, but I surrounded myself with people who did. I found a good accountant and an attorney and a banker that I could turn to for advice.”

PILLARS TO LIVE BY

DL hired another electrician and began the hard work of growing the business. Beginning with mostly residential projects, their reputation for excellence helped them grow into commercial and small industrial services.

As a man of faith, DL wanted to grow a company built on integrity, trust and communication. To that end, he established a set of core values that the company

continues to operate under 50 years later.

“We perform best with a TEAM-APPROACH to deliver our services, are ACCOUNTABLE to each stakeholder within a project, EXPECT EXCELLENCE from each of our peers and partners, constantly look for INNOVATIVE ideas to improve our performance, and put a priority on RELATIONSHIP-DRIVEN opportunities.”

FAMILY FIRST

Continued success resulted in the addition of more employees, and that meant more responsibility for DL.

“I would wake up in the middle of the night worrying because I realized the people working for me were relying on me to support their families. Sometimes that was a heavy burden. I didn’t want to fail them,” DL said.

As most entrepreneurs know, nurturing a successful business takes an incredible amount of work and sacrifice. Time spent growing a business is time away from family. DL often found himself working from dawn to the wee hours of the morning, but his wife supported him. She only had one rule: he had to be home for dinner with the family and help the kids with homework. After that, he could go back to the office.

“I couldn’t have done this without the support of my

family,” DL said. “Suzy is a strong, wonderful woman who did more than stand behind me—she pushed me forward.”

FAITH IN THE FUTURE

DL officially retired in 2005, after 32 years running the company, but remains advisor to son, Shawn, who took over the business. Throughout the transition process, DL was still thinking about his extended work family, so he consulted psychologists and business transition specialists to guide his steps.

“I wanted to make sure those people who had been with me on this entire journey and helped to make the company a success felt like they were still important and valued,” DL said. “I guess it worked because no one quit. Those longtime employees stayed until they retired out of the company.”

Today, DL’s faith is stronger than ever. When he looks back at his life, he can see the hand of God everywhere. And that gives him hope for the future. That is also why he feels it is so important to use the blessings he has received to give back to others.

“Someone helped me get to where I am, and I hope my actions help someone else,” DL said. “That is why the work the Junior Achievement does is so important. It benefits not only the students, but the businesses that participate in the program.” TK

BUSINESS TRANSITION PLANNING

SMALL STEPS FOR LESS STRESS

Transferring your family business to the next generation of leaders can be a complicated process, both logistically

and emotionally. It requires considering several factors including which assets are being transferred, who will be giving and receiving those assets, when the transition will take place, how the transition will take place, and your own family’s dynamics. All these factors can be overwhelming if you think of the process as one transaction, leading to additional stress and possibly inaction when planning your business transition.

2Recapitalize Your Business to Create Voting and Nonvoting Interests

MIRANDA K. CARMONA Partner Goodell, Stratton, Edmonds & Palmer, L.L.P.

Like most things, effective business transition planning does not have to be done all in one step, nor should it be. Breaking it into smaller steps clarifies your objectives, prepares you emotionally, and directs you in your decision making.

1Secure Basic Estate Planning Documents

The first step is to secure basic estate planning documents. A business owner is almost always better served by using a revocable trust and a pour-over will, rather than just a last will and testament, to transfer the business.

When properly funded, a trust can avoid probate and its setbacks, including court oversight of the transfer and public access to personal information. While probate is not always as bad as the horror stories you may have heard and can even occasionally provide a good forum for oversight, in a business, it is almost never a good idea to involve additional complication to the day-to-day decision making. Also, a revocable trust can provide a structure to own the interests of your business until you are ready to relinquish some control or implement some of the more consequential aspects of your transition plan.

You should also have a durable power of attorney for business decisions and a health care directive as part of your plan. These documents appoint someone to act on your behalf to make business and health care decisions if you are not able to. If you do not have these basic documents, a court may appoint a guardian or conservator who will make decisions on your behalf. This causes unnecessary delay, expense, and frustration when trying to make the decisions necessary to continue running your business.

Next, you should ensure you have established a proper business structure. If you are operating your business as a sole proprietorship or general partnership, you should create a separate legal entity, such as a limited liability company, limited liability partnership, or corporation, to operate your business. Not only can the legal entity provide liability and creditor protection for your personal assets, but it can also provide a way to divide the business into separate shares to be transferred to your family.

If you have already established a separate business entity, you should consider recapitalizing your business into voting and nonvoting interests. Because your trust can keep all the interests, you do not have to immediately decide who will ultimately own the separate interests. Once the time comes when you are ready to make those ownership decisions and transfer the interests to the next generation, having the shares divided into voting and nonvoting interests will make the process easier, more efficient, and more flexible. For instance, you can transfer the nonvoting interests to your children equally so each child shares in the value of the business but is not saddled with the day-to-day business decisions. The individuals operating the business, which could include family members or nonfamily managers, could receive the voting shares. Additionally, if you want to include your family in the business ownership structure on a more gradual basis, gifting nonvoting interests incrementally allows you to leverage the tax benefits of annual lifetime gifts and a more gradual transition, while still retaining control of the voting interests.

Consider Life Insurance 3

Another small step you can take is to consider obtaining life insurance. Liquidity is often an issue in estates where most of the assets are small business holdings. Life insurance can provide a lot of flexibility to equalize shares among the family members who will be involved in the business and those who cannot or do not want to be involved. It can be useful for purchasing ownership interests from family members that may want to leave the business, or from outsiders that the new leadership no longer wants involved with the business. It is also useful to have cash available to pay any estate or income taxes that may become due. If you have set up your

basic documents, you can initially make your trust the beneficiary of the life insurance. This defers the need to name individuals as beneficiaries if you have not yet clearly defined some of the details of how the policy will be used.

Estate and business planning is an ongoing process, not a one-time transaction. Just because you are not ready to make the big decisions regarding the transfer of your business does not mean you have to wait to take any action. By taking some of these smaller steps now, your transition plan will be more easily implemented in the future, and more adaptable to the ever-changing economic, tax, and business environment.

TK

LEADERSHIP GREATER TOPEKA

CLASS OF

20 23

Leadership Greater Topeka is a community leadership program of the Greater Topeka Partnership. LGT identifies aspiring and established leaders from the community and introduces them to the opportunities and needs of Topeka and Shawnee County while also teaching adaptive leadership concepts.

Participants are nominated by individuals and organizations. Nominees who complete an application go through a brief conversation with the LGT selection committee. The committee then selects individuals with the goal to build a class that is representative of the diversity within the community.

Compiled by TARA DIMICK

Photos by BRADEN DIMICK

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Ashley Mayer Executive Producer Mammoth Creative Co

What is the most important part of your work?

It elevates a valuable yet overlooked perspective that often gets drowned out in all the noise.

What do you value most in your coworkers?

They find joy in the journey.

What does a day in your life look like?

A large game of Tetris and strategy.

How have you evolved and grown during your career?

I lean in, speak up, and only fear the unmentioned.

What is the biggest professional goal you have accomplished?

Becoming a member of the Producers Guild of

Who would play you in a movie?

Melissa McCarthy

Tiffany Liesmann

Chief Pharmacist

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas

What do you love most about your work?

I spent many years working as a pharmacist, and what I enjoyed most in a traditional pharmacy setting was helping my patients understand their medicines, because that led to them feeling better and living a better life. While I no longer provide direct patient care, the work I do as a pharmacist at BCBSKS still connects our members with access to those medicines that provide peace of mind and improve their health.

We talk about affordability every day and actively pursue solutions to keep healthcare affordable for Kansans. I work with our team on efforts that result in thousands of prescriptions processing through our benefits every day without a hitch. When a member needs direct help, I get satisfaction in helping to resolve an issue that ultimately connects our member with their medicine. Providing members access to medicines that improve their quality of life aligns with my values as a pharmacist. It’s just one of the many things I love about the work I do at BCBSKS.

What is one word you would use to describe yourself?

Funny. I am by no means a class clown, but I enjoy making others smile and laugh in life. My sense of humor can be subtle, and I enjoy throwing out an obscure reference to see who cracks a smile. I find humor in the smallest things and love sharing laughs with others.

Eugene Jones Student Support Coordinator

Communities In Schools of Mid-America

What do you love most about your work?

Being able to provide students and families with resources and tools they can use to better meet their needs. Seeing students succeed drives me to work harder every day.

What led you to this career?

I’ve always enjoyed working with people. While I was in college, I started at a large non-profit in

town working with elementary aged students. Now, I work with some of those students again at the high school level.

What have you learned from the pandemic?

One thing I’ve learned is to value my time. Spending time with my family and friends is something I’ve learned is very important to me. Doing more of the things I love has become a big part of my life.

What music artist do you never get tired of?

Mariah Carey! I have been a HUGE fan of hers since her first album. I have found strength and comfort in so many of her songs. If I had to, I could recite lyrics to 95% of her songs from every album.

What are you grateful for?

I’m grateful for the opportunity to have a job doing something I love. Making a positive impact in the community brings so much joy to my heart.

What is the most important part of your work?

I am a domestic attorney, so I handle family law issues like divorce, child custody and parenting disputes. Taking care of my client is the most important part of what I do. There is nothing easy about deciding to end a marriage or relationship. There is nothing easy about learning to co-parent or dealing with financial struggles following a breakup. Making sure that my client has the resources to succeed and navigate their new normal is of the utmost importance to me. On that same

Keegan McElroy Attorney

Alderson, Alderson, Conklin, Crow & Slinkard, L.L.C. note, domestic issues are emotional. I try to validate the feelings my clients have while also trying to keep matters even-keeled.

What is non-negotiable for you?

I will not let anyone take my peace. I want to invest my time in things that motivate, inspire and challenge me and I will not stay in places or environments that do not appreciate that. If a situation is not for me and my well-being, then it is not an option for me. At the end of the day, it is me, myself, and I, and I will not

allow myself to be a part of something that does not one hundred percent reflect who I am as a person and what I want to inspire.

What characteristic do you most admire in others and why?

I love when others can laugh at themselves. It shows a confidence and self-awareness that is so refreshing. Life is too tough to be so serious all the time. Laugh at the silly mistakes and move on to bigger and better things.

CONGRATULATIONS

LEADERSHIP GREATER TOPEKA CLASS OF 2023

We are proud to say that Andrea is part of #TeamEnvista.

Andrea is a results focused and inspiring leader. She demonstrates integrity and empowers those around her to step into their own leadership.

ANDREA KABERLINE CHIEF LENDING OFFICER

Samuel Feather Partner

Goodell, Stratton, Edmonds & Palmer LLP

What is something you wish someone had told you during your career journey?

Listen more, talk less, resist the urge to have the last word, and do not underestimate the value of being kind.

What is one piece of advice that has served you well in your journey?

My very good friend and mentor, Pat Apple said “do not confuse those looking to capitalize on your professional success and influence with your friends and family. Too many successful people have learned this hard lesson when upon reaching retirement their phone does not ring, their inboxes are empty, and suddenly no one has time for lunch.”

What is your foundation?

The underlying foundation to my personal and professional life is my Christian faith.

What motivates you?

I have six little monsters at my house who affectionately call me Dad. They are in oh so many ways the driving force that motivates not only what I do, but also who I want to be.

What do you love most about your work?

I love that no one day is ever the same in my role at Bartlett & West. Whether it’s arranging travel for one of our 300+ employee owners, planning and executing various events, coordinating charitable giving requests for Topeka and surrounding communities, or working on our internal newsletter, there’s always a variety of things to do.

What piece of advice has served you well in your journey?

I was going through a difficult time in my life and a former manager/friend told me

that until I could be happy being me and being on my own, I wouldn’t be good for anyone else.

What do you do for fun or to recharge?

I love to do all kinds of crafts, but I especially enjoy making wreaths and floral centerpieces.

What’s the last series you bingewatched?

“Sweet Magnolias” on Netflix

Breny Clain Wing Executive Officer 190 Air Refueling Wing

What characteristics do you value most in your coworkers?

Their commitment to our wing mission and willingness to take care of each other.

What do you love most about your work?

Being able to solve problems and improve processes in order to improve our wing and make a difference in both our state’s military and community.

What should one never take for granted?

Our freedom of choice.

What do you do for fun or to recharge?

Build new things—mostly enjoy woodworking (but still a novice).

What music artist do you never get tired of?

Jose Alfredo Jimenez

Rhonda Hamilton Administrator Specialist Bartlett & West

What led you to this career?

I went into nursing because I wanted to help people. Though I no longer work at the bedside, my position now allows me to have an impact on care and outcomes at systems level. I find this aspect of my work very meaningful and rewarding.

What is the secret to a good life?

For me, the not-so-secret to a good life is maintaining a focus on the things that truly matter, God and people (family/friends).

What do you do for fun or to recharge?

I love the outdoors and specifically fishing. My family also enjoys those things and thus we spend a lot of time on the lake in the summer.

What is your leadership style?

I strive to be a servant leader and work hard to remove barriers so that my teams can be successful.

Who would play you in a movie about your life?

Obviously, Ryan Reynolds, due to our striking resemblance.

What is the most valuable lesson you have learned?

What you pass along to others is what will come back to you—make sure whatever you’re passing along is positive and constructive!

What is something you wish someone had told you during your career journey?

That nothing we wish to pursue is impossible! There is no hurdle or problem bigger than our own attitude toward it. I wish I knew earlier on that I could lean on myself and my capabilities to grow and learn to go beyond the doubts of myself and others.

What motivates you?

I love seeing those who I’ve encouraged to explore outside their comfort zone succeed in ways they didn’t think were possible for them.

What is non-negotiable for you?

Integrity. Being dependable and living in alignment to your strongest values—no matter what it costs.

What is your favorite app?

Audible! I love listening to a book during my commute—it’s the perfect way to start and end my day!

What led you to this career?

At 16 years old I had the opportunity to start working at the Prairie Band Casino & Resort busing tables in the buffet. At 19, I was hired as a Tribal Intern at the casino which allowed me to learn more about the business. I found myself drawn to the Human Resources department and knew that’s what I wanted to do. I built a plan on how to achieve this goal and make it a reality. After the internship, I worked in various roles while earning my bachelor’s degree. I had a lot of guidance and

encouragement from the leadership at the casino. Once a position in HR opened up, I seized the opportunity.

What advice has served you well?

“Careers are a jungle gym, not a ladder.”

—Sheryl Sandberg

“Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead”

What is your foundation?

My family. My husband Matthew and my daughter Ophelia. My parents, siblings and extended family. I have always had an amazing support system in every part of my life.

Chad Yeager Vice President of Clinical Quality Stormont Vail Health

Lara Waits Team Member Relations Manager Prairie Band Casino & Resort

Perry Plummer Correspondent Underwriter Capitol Federal Savings Bank

Jake Holly

Foulston Siefkin LLP

What is the most valuable lesson you have

Focus on what you can control. I am a firm believer in the serenity prayer. I’ve learned that spending time worrying about things that I cannot control just creates anxiety and wastes energy. When my mind starts to drift, I always try to remind myself to focus on the things within my reach and apply myself to the fullest in those pursuits. Although, it is not always easy to be able to differentiate between what is and what is not within your control. In those instances, I’ve learned it is best to talk to someone, whether a mentor or friend, and get their take on the situation.

What are your core values?

Integrity. I always want to be honest with everyone and try to always do the right thing. I also value work ethic. It is something that requires zero talent but makes a big difference in not just the workplace, but in relationship building. Lastly, dependability—it is very important to me that I follow through with my commitments, no matter how big or how small.

If you could choose one superhuman ability, what would it be?

No doubt, it would be flying. Not only could I skip traffic, but I could see the world in the most efficient, convenient, and coolest way possible. Sign me up—I’ll happily fall into the vat of radioactive bird seed or whatever other origin story it might take.

What is one word you would use to describe yourself?

Loyal. I’m a good friend, supporter and listener, and I show up when it counts.

What do you love most about your work?

I love helping students navigate the higher education process and watching them grow. I was a first-generation college student, so I understand how difficult the processes can be.

What advice has served you well? My father always said, “If it is meant to be, it will be.”

What music do you never get tired of?

80’s hair bands—I love the 80’s!

What characteristics do you value in your coworkers?

Hard-working, reliable and helpful.

What is the most important part of your work?

Providing moral, legal and ethical training standards for safety.

Who are your mentors?

A now retired TPD employee and Mayor Mike Padilla. I admired his courage, his communication style and his relatability. He inspired me to be better at my job.

What 3 critical skills help you in your work?

Attitude, communication and an adaptive mindset.

What do you love about your work? Empowering new employees by training and teaching.

What is your leadership style?

Candor and honesty while being sensitive to others, even while taking corrective action.

What do you wish someone had told you during your career journey? To be more versatile.

What music artist do you never get tired of?

Durand Jones & The Indications

Stephanie Lanning University Registrar Washburn University

Ruben Salamanca Assistant Director of Training-Sgt Topeka Police Department

Kylie Mergen FVP, Community Investment Officer, Director of Housing and Community Development FHLBank Topeka

What is your leadership style?

I lead with love. Sometimes that looks like tough love, but love, nonetheless. I want people to be seen for who they are and encouraged into who they could be. It’s my job to see potential. It’s your job to realize and step into that potential. And as you figure out who you are on the journey, I’ll hold space for you to make mistakes and learn from them while feeling supported and valued.

What is the most important part of your work?

I believe having a safe place to live is a basic human need. I am fortunate to be part of an organization that helps make housing accessible and affordable. We want to make the greatest impact with the funds we award and to see the money granted turn in to housing opportunities

that can be life changing for those who need it most.

What is something you wish someone had told you during your career journey?

It’s ok to fail. We get so caught up in our successes and striving for the next win that sometimes we hold back because of a fear of failing. I’ve found that failing sometimes leads to an even bigger opportunity. One of my favorite quotes from Maya Angelou is “It is not that I have confidence, but I believe if I fail, so what? Now I have the chance to try again.”

What would we mostly likely see you doing on a weekend?

More often than not, I’m on the sideline or stands of a game my kids are playing. If someone is being a little too loud, it’s most likely me.

Marisol Estrella Marcelo Director of Marketing and Public Relations & Preplanning Specialist

Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home

What do you love most about your work? Working in the funeral industry has given me a much deeper appreciation for life. It allows me to love harder than I could ever explain. It has shown me that not only can I overcome my battles, but how to embrace my new realities. It teaches me how to grow flowers in the darkest parts of me.

Who is your mentor?

Donna Mathena-Menke, owner of Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home. She has shaped me into her little prodigy and is an empowering woman.

It has been a privilege to learn and work alongside such a compassionate and knowledgeable person. She is a second mom to me, my unpaid therapist, and she always knew I was called to serve.

What is one word you would use to describe yourself?

Intentional. I am intentional with my goals, with the people I spend time with, and with my faith. This allows me to live a life filled with purpose.

What has been your biggest Aha! moment? Understanding the things my mom said I would understand when I’m older.

Jermel Walker

Infrastructure Manager

City of Topeka

Sam Sutton Co-Owner/Pilot Fulks Helicopter Services

What led you to your career?

I grew up on a small farm north of Ft. Riley. Our house was located along the low-level route for the helicopters based there. When we heard the helicopters coming, we would run into the yard, waving frantically as they flew over. I knew at that moment I wanted to fly helicopters when I grew up. Fortunately, I had great mentors after high school who helped guide me into the military and navigate my career creating a path for my future.

What do you love most about your work?

The opportunity to travel and meet new people. My wife and I love to travel and have been to all seven continents. Likewise, my aviation career has allowed me to travel all over the U.S. and build a network of friends with similar interests.

What is the most valuable lesson you have learned?

If you don’t make time for maintenance, maintenance will make time for you. This is one of the hardest lessons learned in aviation and in life. Take care of yourself both mentally and physically. Take care of your family and your equipment and it will all take care of you.

What characteristic do you most admire in others?

Humor. It’s a unique characteristic that has the ability to break down barriers and bond people. It can serve as a form of therapy. Making someone laugh can lift them from a dark place, even if it’s just temporary. So, keep laughter alive!

Coordinator and Director Omni Circle

What’s your foundation? Love.

What advice has served you well?

A homeless man shared with me, “Slow down and enjoy life.”

What is the most valuable lesson you have learned? Trust your feelings.

What characteristic do you admire in others? Discipline.

What motivates you? Making wrong right.

What do you collect? Comic books and Nightmare Before Christmas things.

What book are you reading?

“I’m Ok—You’re Okay” by Thomas A. Harris, M.D.

Who inspires you? My children.

What is one word that describe you? Human.

What do you think is the secret to a good life?

Life is good when you are a blessing to others.

What should you never take for granted?

People.

What is the most valuable lesson you have learned?

That life is every changing and you must learn to adapt to those changes when they come.

What are you grateful for?

I am grateful to work for a company that has helped me provide everything that I could ever want for my family.

What motivates you?

Life itself. Every day I get a chance to get it right and help those around me.

What do you collect?

I have been flying drones since 2013.

What is your foundation? My Faith!

What is the most important part of your work?

Helping to develop and execute Envista’s strategic goals.

What characteristics do you value most in your coworkers?

Integrity, responsibility, teamwork, optimism and humor.

What advice has served you well?

Leading by example. I don’t ask anyone to do something I wouldn’t do myself. I learned this from many people who surround me both personally and professionally.

What should never take for granted?

Having a good support system at home. As a working mom of three, I would not be able to juggle what it is thrown at me most days without the support of my husband.

What do you do to recharge?

If the weather is warm, you’ll most likely catch me recharging at a pool or outdoors. I love being outside in warm weather. Key word being warm not cold.

What is your strength?

Being a connector or bridge-builder. Where I come from and what I’ve experienced over the years, I’ve often felt caught between different worlds but that allows me to see situations from multiple sides and appreciate the nuance in a given moment.

What characteristic do you admire in others?

I admire people who are good listeners and aren’t afraid to admit when they’re wrong. I think those who refuse to do that miss opportunities to reflect, learn and grow. I think great leaders listen humbly to those who offer different perspectives on life, and the best leaders lean into the wisdom that comes from diverse perspectives, in order to move communities and causes forward.

What advice has served you well in your journey?

Get comfortable being uncomfortable, because that’s where the growth happens! A friend from high school said that to me, and it’s become a motto of sorts for me. While it isn’t always easy—in fact, it usually isn’t easy—I try to intentionally step outside of my comfort zone often. You never know what might happen when you enter a new situation with optimism and an open mind.

What book are you reading now?

Just finished “Untamed” by Glennon Doyle; it was therapy in 350 pages. Next up is “Nomadland” by Jessica Bruder. I tend to gravitate toward nonfiction and memoirs because I like to draw lessons from the experiences of others and see how those relate to different aspects of my own life.

India Yarborough Director of Communications Greater Topeka Partnership

Adrian Revels Production Associate Goodyear Rubber & Tire

Andrea Kaberline Chief Lending Officer Envista Federal Credit Union

What is the biggest professional goal you have accomplished?

Becoming International President of Junior Civitan. I work to ensure that all needs of Junior Civitan members, clubs, and regions are met to better the organization overall. Junior Civitan is an amazing association that is devoted to their communities and serves those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

What do you love about your school?

My friends and the community. Once I got involved in my school through Junior Civitan, National Honor Society, cheer, and the other organizations, I loved putting

Arianna Womack High School Student Shawnee Heights High School

in the time and hard work to serve others and make a difference in their lives.

Who is your mentor?

Melissa Masoner continues to be my biggest mentor because not only has she helped me throughout my high school years, but she also helps other young people to achieve their goals.

What is the most valuable lesson you have learned? The importance of self-love and confidence.

Darin Stephens Founder and CEO Stone & Story Real Estate Group

What critical skills help you in your work? In real estate you are a connector of people, communicator and problem solver to all parties of the transaction. Balancing these skills allows you to guide clients to achieve their desired real estate goals.

What did you learn from the pandemic?

It’s a constant reminder how precious life is. It was incredible how the world came together during this time to make a difference during adversity.

What motivates you?

Being able to have a positive impact on a person’s journey, whether that is a client or team member. I function as a servant leader, and I look to serve the greater good. It drives me every day to make a difference.

What should one never take for granted?

Your ability to have a voice and make a difference. One can’t forget what a positive impact you can have on the lives of others.

What is one word that describes you?

Caring. This word encompasses how I function with clients, my employees, friends and family members. I work hard every day to ensure those around me have what they need and desire.

Tyler Levier Chief Operating Officer Prairie Band LLC

Who is your greatest inspiration?

My grandfather. His work ethic, integrity, and honesty were unparalleled. He had an 8th grade education, fought in two wars, and worked with his hands every day to provide a solid foundation for his family to thrive. I am a direct result of his efforts and I carry the lessons he taught me every day.

What is your strength?

Solving problems. My father taught me how things work and, to the contrary, if something was broken, we fixed it. Then, we needed to understand why it broke—and that lesson was the greatest gift. Growing up, I thought I would grow up to be a mechanic. Understanding how the individual pieces of something larger interact with one another to accomplish a task is universal and I maintain that mindset in all of my endeavors.

What do you love about your work?

The inspirational people I am fortunate enough to work beside make coming through the door an everyday pleasure. Seeing the company and team grow while knowing that the efforts put forth each day making a genuine contribution to progress is extremely rewarding.

What is one word you would use to describe yourself?

Happy. I face everything with a heartfelt

What should never be taken for granted?

Being able to wake up and breath every morning.

What is your foundation?

Being genuine.

What do you love about your work?

I truly enjoy working and interacting with people. I feel a great sense of accomplishment after helping and building relationships with my clients.

What do you do to recharge?

Cook, travel and spend time with family and friends.

What series have you binge-watched recently?

“Ted Lasso” and “Cobra Kai”

What led you to this career?

Strathman Sales has been in my family since my great-grandfather bought it in 1939. Growing up, it was something I always considered as a possible option. In high school, I spent a few summers working in its sign shop, warehouse, and as a delivery assistant. However, I made sure to get experience working outside of my family’s business as well. I took a few years to work retail and one in food service before deciding to come back into beer distribution. After graduating from college, I began working full time at Strathman Sales spending time working in each position to gain a more complete understanding of how this company operated.

What is the biggest professional goal you have accomplished?

Anheuser-Busch, our primary supplier, requires managers of their wholesalers to submit to an approval process. You must gain experience within every aspect of the business and be interviewed by a member of Anheuser-Busch’s senior leadership to demonstrate your knowledge and ability to run the company. For me, this was a five-year process that allowed me to familiarize myself with how each piece of this company works. After my interview and AB’s Region Vice President signed off on my approval, I felt the greatest sense of accomplishment in my professional life thus far.

What do you do to recharge?

Every day when I get home from work, I sit down at my table, turn on a comedy podcast (something mindless to not pull focus), and draw. Most of my drawing time is spent creating pages for the comic books I’m working on. This is something that I enjoy that helps me recharge, but it also brings about a sense of accomplishment. When I finish drawing a page, I feel deeply satisfied when I see my skills progress, and I’ve created something which realizes or exceeds my initial concept.

Jarrod Guth Community Engagement Manager Capper Foundation

What led you to this career?

My son was receiving services here at Capper Foundation and I saw the incredible work that they do daily. I’ve always been engaged in community efforts, and I wanted to be more involved in helping. Seeing a position that played to my strengths was the opportunity that I needed in order to be more involved.

What is one piece of advice that has served you well in your journey?

My father helped me understand perspective. While it’s not one piece of advice, it is how he lived his life. He taught me that there is never one side to the story. The dragon that was slayed by the knight saving the princess had a family as well.

What makes you unique?

Probably my sense of humor. At least others have mentioned that my love for the absurd and abstract are fairly unique. Comedy is subjective, so others may consider it unique, but with a raised eyebrow.

What are your biggest pet peeves?

The phrase “that’s how it’s always been done,” rudeness, and Steve (he knows what he did).

Colton Strathman Sales Execution Coordinator Strathman Sales Co.

Jade Ramsdell Performance Improvement Director Kansas Department of Health and Environment

What is one word you would use to describe yourself?

Sincere. It’s important for me (and central to my own personal values) to communicate with honesty and civility, to “show up” as a person who others can rely on, and step outside of my comfort zone as a person committed to this lifelong process of learning more about myself.

What do you love most about your work?

The people. I am incredibly fortunate to encounter people from all walks of life. In the spaces we share, it can be very vulnerable due to the nature of the work we do in public health involving social determinants of health and disparities. It’s not unusual to hear direct storytelling from community members and/or individuals with intersecting identities share stories of their unique experiences that bring a diverse perspective to the table and to the work that we conduct on a daily basis. For me, it’s about really being present in those moments and reflecting on them to continuously improve the work we do, and for personal growth as well.

What do you think the secret to a good life is?

Authentic words and actions. I believe by doing so, even when it may be risky, or if it requires a great deal of courage, it helps to form deeper connections (with oneself, the world, and those around us).

What do you do to recharge?

I enjoy acrylic painting. I have always been intrigued by art as a path to emotion and the way art can evoke deep emotional responses.

Craig Barnes Division Manager, Community Health Outreach and Planning Shawnee County Health Department

Who is your greatest inspiration?

My biggest inspiration is and probably always has been my mother. From a young age my mother always instilled a robust work ethic and the desire to want to improve my community. She is amazing at balancing her work as a healthcare provider and volunteering time in her community. She got me started volunteering and interested in working in the health field.

What is the most valuable lesson you have learned?

As a leader you need to ensure a culture of quality and excitement. Your team members should understand that your goal as a leader is to help them align their personal and professional goals to the benefit of the team and organization. If you are able to do that and you are able to ultimately empower your team to put forth their entire motivation, creativity, and passions into the overarching goal of the team and organization anything is possible. When individuals feel empowered and wholly part of a team; performance and innovation increase exponentially.

Who would play you in a movie about your life?

Josh Lucas

Karina dixon HR Manager KBS Constructors

What is non-negotiable for you? Respect. Dealing with people involves working with so many different personalities, backgrounds, and beliefs. You may not always agree with someone, but you should always have respect for them.

What is your strength? Empathy. It is a strength that helps me understand different people’s perspectives while treating them with compassion. At the same time, I am able to have tough conversations and speak up with my own point of view.

What might you be seen doing on a weekend? Baking and decorating cookies, listening to true crime podcasts, and being out and about with my husband and two boys.

If you could choose one superhuman ability, what would it be?

The ability to stop time. There never seems to be enough.

Jacqueline Belden Program Manager Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library

What do you love most about your work?

I love that I get to report every day to a job where I can combine my lifelong love of literacy and learning with my passion for public service and leadership.

What motivates you?

I am so motivated by growth and learning. I love learning something new every day in my work and in my personal life (I am a librarian, after all!), and I always seize opportunities to grow myself as a leader and as a person.

What did you learn from the pandemic?

The pandemic showed me with clarity that there is joy in “missing out” (these days I have JOMO, not FOMO!). There are no more precious moments than the ones spent reading a book on my couch while sipping a coffee and snuggling with my dog.

What are your core values? Empathy, curiosity, service, humor, growth, and learning.

What is one word you would use to describe yourself?

Free-spirited. My beliefs and outlook on life is to find adventures and different joys. I believe in the gray area in life and just take the world as is. I like this characteristic because it helps me help others, I am not judgy and can see another perspective very easily.

What superhuman ability would you want?

Best answer, ability to clone. I would be able to work, learn, and sleep all at once. Having a way of life where I could be in multiple places at once sounds nice.

What advice has served you well in your journey?

A few times throughout the day, just ask yourself what you notice. It can help ground you. Listen to what your body and brain tell you, and notice the things that you normally don’t.

What should one never take for granted?

Friends and peers.

Nicholas Jefferson Senior Litigation Attorney City of Topeka

How have you evolved and grown during your career?

By completely changing careers. I started as a civil engineer doing various aspects of design work and construction project management for two different consulting firms. After about seven years I took a leap and went to law school at Washburn University, which is how I ended up in Topeka. I have been a civil litigation attorney for the last 11 years, initially in private practice, and the last seven years for the City of Topeka. I have also had the opportunity over the last year to work part time for the City in a civil engineering capacity again, by helping with some construction project management part-time. It has been very interesting, and while I love my current job as a litigation attorney, it has been fun to flex that engineering muscle again.

What is something you wish someone had told you during your career journey?

If you find yourself consistently dreading Sunday evenings, it might be time to move on to something else. You are not doing anyone any favors by staying in a position that no longer works for you. That might mean a new job or a completely new career, but if you need to make a leap, make it. Life is too short.

What do you collect?

Musical instruments. I am up to 4 acoustic guitars, 6 electrics, 3 mandolins, 2 basses, and countless miscellaneous instruments strewn about my basement. Music is a large part of my life and has been for years.

Mindy Hardenbrook

What led you to this career?

After graduating high school, I wasn’t ready to head to college. I was working full time in retail, and some of my regular customers worked at the bank that shared the same parking lot. They encouraged me to apply for a bookkeeping position. Over 28 years later, I still love banking.

What has the pandemic taught you?

The pandemic was such an unexpected learning experience. New meaning was given to words like teamwork, flexibility, and understanding. No matter how difficult something seemed, there was always a way to get through it. Pivot, collaborate, and get creative! We

were all going through something for the first time, but we were going through it together.

What advice has served you well?

Early on in my banking career, I was working for one of the first female bank presidents in Boulder, CO. She was charting new territory and always had time for me. She advised me to not get caught up in the gossip; if there’s something that you need to know it will be delivered in an appropriate way.

What’s the last series you binge-watched?

“Ted Lasso.” It makes me laugh and cry in just about every episode.

VP, Retail Manager, Sales and Service - Branches CoreFirst Bank & Trust

Faith Cavazos Student Shawnee Heights High School

What led you to this career? Experiences where I could learn through play as a child led me down my engineering path. College was difficult for me. I did not have straight A’s. In fact, I had C’s and there were times I thought I could not complete it. I thought that I was not good enough for this career because it was not coming to me easily. Thankfully, I kept going and was successful.

While I was at college, I had the opportunity to work at a “before and after” school care program where

Caitlin Luttjohann Vice President of Play and Learning Kansas Children’s Discovery Center

I taught an engineering club. At one point, I had some 5th graders wanting to give up because they could not figure something out in our design. I encouraged them to keep going, to think through the problem, and use their resources. They succeeded. That’s when I realized I wanted all children to know they can do anything they want as long as they do not give up and try their best.

I started at the Flint Hills Discovery Center as an Education Specialist for

Science and have been in the informal education world ever since.

What do you think the secret to a good life is?

1. Be yourself.

2. Allow yourself to fail safely, learn and move on.

3. Stay curious and allow yourself to follow that curiosity even if the path isn’t the “normal” one.

What music artist do you never get tired of?

Queen

Graham Moulden Aircraft Mechanic 190th Air Refueling Wing

What is the biggest professional goal you have accomplished?

Seeing someone who enlisted grow into a professional and watching their success. In 2018, I was able to award several of my troops on a deployment in the Middle East.

What do you love most about your work?

Traveling, learning about different cultures, and trying to understand life through a different lens.

What has been your biggest Aha! moment?

Realizing everyone walks their own path, some are harder than others, but can be much more rewarding.

What is one word you would use to describe yourself?

Congenial. I can remember not being popular in my adolescence, and now realize how little that matters in the real world. I have grown so much from rallying outcasts and proposing inclusion.

What do you do for fun?

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Legos with my kids.

What is your favorite app?

Spotify. It can help me get out of a bad mood, and help elevate a good mood.

Josh Sturm Operations Manager Oak View Group - Evergy Plaza

What do you love most about your work?

Getting to help operate and manage a state-of-the-art facility in Evergy Plaza. I love that we host and produce amazing events and activities for our community to enjoy.

Engaging with lots of different people from our community that visit and enjoy the space is rewarding. The fact that when people visit my work its usually filled with smiling faces and a community making memories.

What should one never take for granted?

Opportunity. In your personal life or professional life, make the most out of the opportunities that we get because you don’t know how many more you may or may not get.

What do you collect?

I am not sure if you would consider it a collection but I have a lot of hats and shoes! I guess my only reasoning behind having so many is that I can show a little bit of my personality through them.

How have you grown during your career? Learning there is value in my voice! Leaders need to be in every department and demographic in order to be successful. Starting out, I thought I needed to be X or had to be Y in order to speak up and share my thoughts and ideas. I have come to realize some of the most influential and impactful leaders are those that come with a different perspective.

What should never be taken for granted?

Your ability to change. Don’t like your outfit? Change into something that makes you feel good. Not happy with your job? Look for a new opportunity that is a better fit for you. Feeling down? Do something

to put a smile on your face—go outside, talk to a friend, pet a dog, watch a funny video.

What do you do for fun?

I coach volleyball. I love that I get to help young athletes realize their potential and help them grow both on and off the court.

What is the most important part of your work?

Making the world a better place. Innovation means we are changing for the better. A better process, a better product with better performance, all leading to a new and better way to do things.

Lindsay Lebahn Senior Program Manager Plug and Play

Roberto Gonzales Owner Ad Astra Logistics, LLC Area Manager Goodyear Tire & Rubber Plant

What is the most important part of your work?

One area that I focus on extensively both as a logistics business owner and in production management is workplace safety. Keeping my teams safe has followed me from the oil fields to transportation to mass manufacturing. Completing safety audits, testing and maintaining equipment failures, and providing ongoing training and support on appropriate safety measures is always at the forefront.

What do you think the secret is to a good life?

There are no secrets, but pay attention to your values and let them be your guide. We tend to be happiest with our decisions when they align with our principles and goals. The only difference between a good life and a bad one is perspective.

What do you collect?

We own 10 horses and at this point I feel it is fair to call that a collection. I never imagined that this would be such a big part in my daily life, but I fell in love with a farm gal and apparently it is a package deal. Despite the work involved, it has been a great experience. Nothing will improve your non-verbal communication, test your patience, and develop your comfort with humility like a 1,200 pound animal—or 10 of them.

Romae Isom Shelter Manager YWCA

What characteristics do you value in your coworkers?

I work alongside beautiful individuals that are super passionate and dedicated to the mission of our organization. Sometimes the work can be a little heavy on the soul, but when I see a great team of individuals showing up for the cause EVERY DAY, I am encouraged.

What motivates you?

My husband and my five children. I try to be the best I can for them. If you give the ones closest to you the best version of yourself, you give them the room and inspiration to search for the best version of themselves.

What’s your leadership style?

I refer to it as a servant-leadership style. I believe in encouraging people and pulling out the best in other leaders.

What’s the last series you bingewatched?

“Georgia and Ginny” with my daughter (and alone *shhh*).

Renee Franklin

Pre-production Quality Control Specialist Southwest Publishing and Mailing

What do you love most about your work?

The fact that every day I make a difference. The skill set that is fundamentally who I am makes me uniquely qualified to do my job well.

What is your strength?

My adaptability. Change does not inspire fear in me, quite the opposite. When there is change there is the chance for transformation, for metamorphosis. It energizes me and creates the opportunity for regeneration.

How have you evolved and grown during your career?

During the 36+ years with this company, I have personally and professionally mellowed with age. Perspective, patience and focus have all improved so much.

What motivates you?

Being the result of the love of thousands that have come before me, my ancestors are my guides and I strive to honor them every day.

What is your favorite app? YouTube. So. Much. Information.

WestSide Story

Community benefits from owner’s unification of businesses

By CHRIS MARSHALL

Photos

by

JENNIFER GOETZ

In the celebratory moments following a championship performance, the victorious team and the trophy they hoist both gleam on stage, free of imperfections—at least to the public eye.

But the journey to becoming a polished final product isn’t always as glamorous. Players talk about the sweat poured into grueling practices when nobody was watching. The trophy itself was molded into shape through a process involving extreme pressure and heat.

Kurtis Wells, owner of WestSide Stamp & Awards, and more recently T-Shirts Etc. and Topeka Spirit, can relate. By running businesses that provide complementary services, Wells is armed with a one-two punch capable of knocking out all of Topeka’s personalized merchandise and award needs. However, getting to this point required Wells to pour in plenty of sweat of his own.

Kurtis Wells, owner of WestSide Stamp & Awards, recently purchased T-Shirts Etc. and Topeka Spirit, which expands his ability to provide a wide selection of personalized merchandise and award needs.

Photo by JENNIFER GOETZ

FORGED BY FIRE

Two years after Wells reached an agreement to buy WestSide Stamp & Awards, the building caught fire. The inside of 2030 SW Fairlawn Road needed to be gutted and the entire roof replaced. For more than six months, operations were moved to another temporary location while the building was repaired in 2013.

The setback was an eye-opener for an entrepreneur who was still adjusting to a new industry. For the previous 12 years, Wells was manager at Sports Center Family Fun Center before being drawn in by the opportunity to work with his hands and build something of his own at WestSide.

The previous owners had a fiveyear plan to work alongside Wells and transition the ownership over before retiring. It was an ideal arrangement for all parties, but nobody anticipated

a fire that would cause structural damage, plus damage to the store’s contents.

People in the community volunteered office supplies, desks and other needs, and the Topeka Chamber of Commerce provided assistance to help the business get back on its feet.

“In those times, you don’t have anything,” Wells said. “The business didn’t stop just because we had a fire. I believe we came out of it stronger. The community was fantastic. They gave a guy like me—who was about to take over—encouragement, and it showed the city wasn’t going to let us go.”

Wells learned that in the eyes of Topekans, WestSide was synonymous with stamp and awards. That association isn’t a bad thing, but in the nearly 10 years since the blaze, he’s made it his mission to show that the business can do so much more.

“A lot of people think it’s a momand-pop trophy shop,” Wells said. “We’re a full-fledged engraving shop that works with all types of material: metal, glass, acrylic, wood, marble. You name it, we can engrave it in some fashion. Corporate awards, promotional items, trophies for sports. It never ends. If there’s something you want personalized, we can probably do it.”

To meet all those needs, WestSide has grown steadily since Wells took ownership.

“When I started, we had five fulltime employees and one part-time,” Wells said. “Within three years, we doubled that number. We’ve enjoyed significant growth. The previous owners did a good job of giving me something to maintain and grow off of.”

After mastering the trophy, award and promotional merchandise market, Wells set his sights on adding even more services. Once again, a situation beyond his control added to the degree of difficulty.

ROLLING UP HIS SLEEVES

When Wells first took ownership of WestSide, he wanted to add screen printing and embroidery to the company’s personalization options. He said he couldn’t find a way to make it work and shelved the idea for about five years. In March 2021, he discovered his answer was just a short drive down Fairlawn Road.

The timing was perfect for Joe Glotzbach, who was looking to sell T-Shirts Etc. after 20 years of ownership. Wells sat down with Glotzbach and developed a transition plan that worked for both parties and acquired a store that allowed him to further pursue his passion.

Like the fire that complicated his first years at WestSide, the Covid-19 pandemic could have derailed his new venture before it even got started. Again, Wells turned what could have been a deterrent into a motivating factor.

“We like being a company that’s able to provide [customized] things for our community,”

—Kurtis

Wells WestSide Stamp & Awards

Photo by JENNIFER GOETZ

“People were saying, ‘What better thing to do during a global pandemic than buy a company?’” Wells recalls. “My belief is, you can get up and do something or wait for the world to tell you what will happen. As a small business owner, I wasn’t going to wait. We needed to be strategic to survive. I had employees with families who needed to get back to work and service the needs of the community.”

Considering the number of times Wells drives back and forth, the two-mile commute to 923 SW Fairlawn is a nice convenience. But that’s not the only perk of owning businesses that dovetail each other.

“Every local company, every local baseball and soccer team, every reunion, every school that’s looking to show school spirit, all these people in the community have a need for T-shirts,” he said. “People will always need these things. The two stores had very similar customer bases, but some weren’t buying their apparel from T-Shirts Etc. and some weren’t getting their engraved tumblers or stamps at WestSide, so it’s been a good opportunity for cross-promoting and merchandising.”

FAMILY FEEL

Now a manager of 16 people, Wells says he’s gotten a lot of support, as well as help around the offices, from his wife of 10 years, April, who has taken on added responsibilities in the businesses since the Wells’ children are of the age to spend full days at school. Together, the husband-and-wife duo have brought a family feel to the workplace.

“They’re my work family,” Kurtis said of his staff. “We joke because I spend a lot of time

with these people. We enjoy each other’s company and we work hard tackling all kinds of projects. And it’s a good problem to have, but we’re outgrowing both locations. Our major goal is to get under one roof as company, so we can provide everything in one place.”

While combining businesses into one building would be an exciting milestone, Wells remains thankful for the everyday wins along the way.

“It might sound corny, but I like all the steps,” he said. “I like meeting with customers and seeing what they’re trying to do. I like engraving and having my hands in it the whole time. And I like the end product and seeing the look on customers’ faces when we hit it out of park.”

Wells continues to look for opportunities to grow and recently acquired a second screen print shop, Topeka Spirit, in October 2022. Given the success, it could be easy to overlook the early challenges, but Wells hasn’t forgotten the community was there for him when he first moved to WestSide. He hopes to continue repaying that favor by anticipating and meeting the needs of anyone who walks through his door.

“We like being a company that’s able to provide things for our community,” he said. “It’s exciting to have relationships with other businesses because you get to be a part of their growth and see that as they get more nameplates for desks or more name tags. We’re a part of that in our own way. It’s pretty cool to see our community grow, and we’re very blessed and happy to be a part of it.” TK

WestSide Stamp & Awards, T-Shirts Etc. and Topeka Spirit share similar customer bases which provides opportunities for cross-promotion and merchandising.

Photos by JENNIFER GOETZ

By CONNOR ENGLAND & SJ HAZIM Creative Pathways & Means

CREATIVE PROBLEM-SOLVING STRATEGIES FOR A RAPIDLY CHANGING WORLD

It is in these times that people look to leaders for direction. Leaders who can navigate the new territory we are all being thrust into, and who can point their people towards safety and success, despite whatever changes may come. People who can solve new problems as they come; who can create opportunities where others only see challenges.

We believe that you (yes, you) are one such capable leader, and it is our hope that you will consider taking up the problemsolver’s call in this time of social and business need. If you’re already doing so, we commend you. If you’re not, and are on the fence, then we have a proposal for you.

Change the Tool

Let us propose to you that, with a simple shift in the way that you view and approach problems and change as a whole, you can make a world of difference in your workplace and your community. To make this shift, all you have to do is change the tool you’re using.

To navigate territory, there are two primary tools that we can use: maps and compasses. To know which one to use at any given moment, you must understand what type of territory you are currently in.

Automation. Supply chain shocks. Artificial intelligence. Globalization. The list goes on and on.

It’s true that things are always changing. Many note, however, that there’s something about this go-around that feels different. Something about the changes of the modern era feels less like a simple swapping of old tools for the “shiny-new-thing,” and more like a tectonic shift in the way that we approach work as a whole. The data and trends corroborate that this is indeed the case; equally worthy of note is that the pace of change will only continue to increase in the coming years. So, what are we to do?

Maps are useful for when the territory is well understood; we use maps to travel from city to city by following predictable routes, and we use procedural maps inside of businesses like handbooks and standard operating procedures to produce products and services and sales outcomes in similarly predictable ways. Follow the map to “X marks the spot,” and treasure awaits you.

In territory where the landscape is unknown, however, no map is available to help you move forward. It is in these sorts of environments where compasses are the tool needed to move from space to space in useful and productive ways. To navigate today’s rapidly changing environment, we must learn to use compasses, not maps.

Everywhere you look, things are changing. Fast.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

Why a Compass?

In a world filled with new problems and challenges resulting from the shifts of technology and beyond, we propose that a sound strategy for creative problem-solving may be one of the most useful compasses you can possess for coming up with solutions to the unknowns that your business and workforce will inevitably face in the years to come.

One such strategy for creative problem-solving is the six-step method used by Creative Pathways & Means (CPM) to help companies work through complex problems in predictable ways.

6-STEP

➀ Properly Define the Problem

➁ Break Down Barriers to Generating Ideas

➂ Generate Solutions

➃ Decide the Course of Action

➄ Implement the Solution

➅ Evaluate the Solution

Each step, given appropriate time and consideration, allows for leaders to shine a light on various aspects of the problem that are unknown. It allows teams to break out of doubt and fear and move towards generating ideas and solutions which can make even the most seemingly insurmountable problems more manageable.

The utility of problem-solving methods can be illustrated by the following humorous example:

A boss and his employee are backpacking in Alaska when a grizzly bear starts to chase them from a distance. Both start running, but it’s clear that eventually the bear will catch up with them. The employee takes off his backpack, gets his running shoes out, and starts putting them on. His boss says, “You can’t outrun the bear, even in running shoes!” The employee replies, “I don’t need to outrun the bear; I only need to outrun you!”

Happy Navigating!

We encourage you to pick up a compass that works for you. If you are looking for a creative problem-solving playbook (on these six categories and beyond), you can explore various free resources on the topic by going to www.pathwaysmeans.com TK

Lessons From a 90-Year-Old Business

How old fashion values became the legacy of MRH Insurance Group

By SAMANTHA MARSHALL

Photos by JENNIFER GOETZ

If you were shopping for a 90th-anniversary gift, tradition would steer you toward something in granite, a symbol of longterm relationships. Such a sentiment perfectly commemorates MRH Insurance Group, a three-generation family business that built its reputation on the trust and loyalty of its clients.

The story behind MRH Insurance Group is a twist on the traditional tale of a business being handed down from father to son. Ross T. Hendrickson, president and owner, took over the firm from his father-in-law, Dave Robinson, who took the reigns from his father-in-law and founder, David McCune.

Since McCune opened its doors in 1932, the business has gone from a local Chanute firm, to a large local firm, to a regional firm whose footprint extends all over Kansas, including an office in Topeka.

The original Teter Rock stone in Greenwood County stood strong to help guide traveling pioneers to the Cottonwood River in the 1870s. Today’s Teter Rock marks the original monument on land owned by the Hendrickson family, descendants of early day settler, James Teter.

PRINCIPLES THAT BUILT A BUSINESS

While Hendrickson has expanded the firm both in size and offerings, he remains focused on the values McCune established in 1932 when he opened his community agency in Chanute.

“Treating our clients and employees like family is pretty key to how we do business,” said Hendrickson. “We practice extreme customer service.”

Business as usual for Hendrickson and his staff means continuing practices that may feel

like hallmarks of the past, things like picking up the phone no later than the third ring. Industry-wise, his team stands out by making sure someone from MRH Insurance Group is onsite if a claim turns complicated.

“That’s the way it used to be, but now, when you have a claim, most of the time you get a 1-800-number and that’s it,” said Hendrickson. “We still stay engaged in the process.”

Hendrickson emphasizes customer service values both to honor his predecessors and also as

an essential way to stand out in a crowded market.

“Insurance is, for the most part, a commodity,” Hendrickson said. “You can work with us or with somebody else, but for the most part, it’s insurance. When it comes to service, relationships, coverages, premiums, those are the areas where we have to work really hard to differentiate ourselves.”

A BUSTING BOOK OF BUSINESS

Since taking the helm, Hendrickson used his previous

political experience to multiply the agency’s clientele several times over. While running campaigns for Ron Thornburgh, former Kansas Secretary of State, Hendrickson clocked hundreds of thousands of miles driving across the state to meet constituents. Those long road trips paid off in terms of future clients.

“A lot of our growth is tied to the relationships I built over many years,” said Hendrickson.

In addition to serving clients across Kansas, MRH Insurance Group’s book of business extends to 24 other states. Clients range across the board, from commercial clients, including farmers, hospitals, and other professionals, to consumers looking for home and auto insurance.

Seeing variety as a key to both growth and stability, Hendrickson made it a priority

Photo by JENNIFER GOETZ

“We practice extreme customer service.”

Ross T. Hendrickson President MRH Insurance Group, Inc.

to expand the firm’s product line, in terms of carriers and lines of coverage.

“We don’t want to be tied to any one industry,” said Hendrickson. “We’re very much a generalist.”

Regardless of the size of the client, MRH Insurance Group holds itself to its usual standard of excellence.

“We put the same amount of effort into a smaller client as we would a high-profile client,” said Hendrickson. “We’d like to be associated with a clientele who expects good service, cares about relationships and is budget mindful. Those are things we’re looking for.”

Being an independent agency allows MRH Insurance Group to shop around to find carriers for clients with unique needs.

“We get calls from people who are trying to do something that just doesn’t fit a box,” Hendrickson explained. “We’re like specialists in

that we’re able to go out and locate a carrier that specializes in what the client needs.”

IN IT FOR THE LONG HAUL

While Hendrickson has successfully grown the number of clients he serves, he said growing his staff has been much more challenging due to the tight job market across the insurance industry.

“Not a lot of people go into this industry anymore,” he said. “When you find good people, you want to treat them really well.”

Now a staff of 11 team members (Hendrickson specifically calls them “team members,” not “employees”), most of MRH Insurance Group is made up of people who have spent between 15 and 35 years at the agency.

Such continuity has only added to the agency’s customer experience, enabling clients to get to know who’s on the other line.

“Our greatest success is that we’re able to treat clients and employees like family,” Hendrickson said. “We’re always trying to honor the McCune and Robinson names through the traditions we’ve had handed down to us.”

Now 52 years old, Hendrickson has started to think about who will continue these traditions after him. So far, he said his two sons don’t seem interested. But, in line with the tradition of passing down the business to an in-law, Hendrickson said he’d welcome the opportunity to hand the reigns to a daughterin-law.

“That would be very, very fine with me,” he said. “In the meantime, I’m staying in the saddle and hoping we can continue on to the fourth generation.”

LESSONS FOR LONGEVITY

So, what can other business owners hope to learn from a company with a 90-year track record?

For one, communication is key. Hendrickson trains his team never to make assumptions.

“That is when people get into trouble,” he said. “We practice extreme communication with clients to make sure everyone is on the same page.”

But more importantly, Hendrickson said it comes down to doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.

“You might never get thanked or paid back,” Hendrickson said. “But over time, when you have a reputation for being a straight shooter and highly ethical, you may not realize when you receive referrals or when someone has stayed with you. I think that’s made a difference.” TK

Photo by JENNIFER GOETZ

MRH Insurance Group has expanded in both size and offerings but remains focused on the values established in 1932.

Foulston Siefkin LLP thanks Topeka associate Jake Holly for his leadership, commitment to our clients, and support of the Topeka community ’s growth.

Jake joined Foulston in March 2020 to focus on business and corporate law, real estate, and estate planning. He followed his undergraduate degree from Washburn with a juris doctor from Washburn School of Law.

Jake is past president of the Topeka Bar Association Young Lawyers section and at-large associate representative for the Sam A. Crow American Inn of Court. He’s also a member of the Kansas and American Bar Associations.

WE BELIEVE IN THE POWER OF PLAY

LOCAL BUSINESS

LeaderTopeka

SPOTLIGHT PARTNERS

From too much screentime to not enough play time, it’s hard to keep your kid happy, healthy and active. Sky Zone Topeka has a solution for all of it—Jump Time.

Located locally at the Westridge Mall, Sky Zone is a space to move, create and be yourself. There’s enough room for everyone, so all kids—and kids at heart—can play together. Our vision is a world where everyone plays, every day.

Sky Zone offers several birthday party options, memberships, group rates, facility rentals, and fundraisers.

“We try to be an active family. The membership is great for our needs. It gets us off the couch and jumping together multiple times every month.”

—A Satisfied Member

Check out Sky Zone and let your family experience the power of play.

www.skyzone.com/topeka

topeka@skyzone.com

785-337-8400

SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS LEADERS

FAST, DEPENDABLE & COMPETENT

Downing Septic is a long time local septic and grease pumping company that’s been serving Northeast Kansas for over 22+ years. Originally founded by Bob Downing, Jerry and Petrina Murphree proudly assumed the responsibilities in 2019.

Downing Septic provides fast and dependable septic and grease services. Knowing problems can arise anytime, they are available 24/7 to serve your needs.

Downing Septic services residential and commercial properties such as: restaurants, realtors, municipalities and homes. Its technicians are certified to perform inspections and repairs of septic and grease systems. They guarantee quality workmanship, and because they know they can deliver on their promise, they take on the toughest jobs.

No job is too big or too small!

www.downingseptic.com

785-357-0046 or 785-428-0129

WELL ESTABLISHED BUSINESS WITH A REPUTATION FOR QUALITY SERVICE

In 1975, a local school teacher by the name of Bob Brown started Bob’s Janitorial Service as a summer business to make ends meet. Throughout his ownership, he built a reputation for quality of service, work ethic and dependability.

Forty-eight years later, Bob’s Janitorial has experienced growth in various ways but the underlying values have lived on. The company’s belief in its employees, its reputation and dependability, and the knowledge of the various services it provides to its customer base remains the heart and soul of the business.

Today Bob’s Janitorial Service is a household name throughout Northeast Kansas because of the trust customers have in that reputation.

You can trust Bob’s Janitorial to deliver great service whether it’s for a residence, a “mom & pop” local business or a national customer.

www.bobsjanitorial.com

785-271-6600

By KIM GRONNIGER

In the spring of 2022, lifelong friends and high school basketball standouts Chris WhiteReady, Nelson Jones and Canon Fields were watching sports and discussing their next steps in life when they landed on the idea of opening a high-end sneaker store in their hometown.

White-Ready, a former assistant manager at Champs in West Ridge Mall, had long been a fan of sneaker culture and apparel, especially Michael Jordan footwear.

“We’d been living our lives and raising kids and doing what we had to do, but we were all at a point where we had some savings and wanted to invest in something together,” said White-Ready. “We noticed a lot of activity on social media with people in the area selling sneakers direct. We all had our own collections of shoes and thought that would make a nice foundation for our business.”

Photos by JOHN BURNS

Sneaker manufacturers and retailers often use raffles to build

(Standing) NELSON JONES, Partner; BRANDON LUARKS, Sneakers Restoration; CANON FIELDS, Partner; (Front) CHRIS WHITE-READY, Partner

Photo by JOHN BURNS

demand for limited edition styles or rely on social media apps for controlled distribution.

“Sometimes you have to work with multiple apps to improve your chances of getting a pair of shoes you want and even then, there are no guarantees,” said White-Ready. “If you wanted to take your chances in a store, you had to go to Kansas City.”

Their conversations about creating a local source for sneakers became more serious, culminating in a lease on a location at 250 SE 29th St. in May 2022.

“All the partners tackled an aspect of the business from different angles, which made everything easier,” said White-Ready. “We all know a lot of people and that was a

blessing to have friends and family pitch in. I called on my connections through Champs. My uncle powerwashed the building and another owner’s best friend did the flooring work. Those contributions and others were really helpful to us.”

The partners installed turf and basketball flooring, painted the walls bright colors, filled shelves with shoes in men’s, women’s and children’s sizes and ordered apparel and hats in preparation for Laces’ grand opening on August 7.

“That day was ridiculous,” said White-Ready. “The whole parking lot was full, and it felt good to have that support. It reassured us that we’d hit the nail on the head with our idea.”

Within six months, customers from area small towns and metropolitan areas like Junction City, Manhattan and Wichita had discovered Laces through social media and local advertising.

Basketball goals at different heights cater to customers of all ages and occupy younger shoppers while parents make their selections.

“The parents are usually ready to go before the kids are,” said White-Ready.

Laces’ flagship brands include Jordan, Nike Dunk, Nike Air Max and Adidas Yeezy.

“Demand for these shoes trickled off the court to become a fashion statement,” said WhiteReady. “The biggest consumers aren’t just basketball players but

Laces’ flagship brands include Jordan, Nike Dunk, Nike Air Max and Adidas Yeezy.

Photo by JOHN BURNS

people who want to look good. If you’re wearing a Jordan 12, you can look up the history of that style and see what games Jordan played in those shoes. The scarcity factor of a high-quality shoe also ups the prestige associated with it.”

Laces sells new shoes as well as trade-ins and authenticates the merchandise through a third party, Legit Check.

“Authentication is especially important in this business since the people who make replicas are getting so much better at it,” said White-Ready. “Our first week of business we realized we’d sold a replica and rectified that right away. Now with the Legit Check app we’ve become a security blanket for people who want to resell or who just want to make sure they own the real thing. We want all of our customers to be satisfied.”

In addition to shoes, Laces sells sports team hats, Chiefs gear and shirts from brands like Polo, The North Face and Timberland.

Laces also features apparel created by current and former Topekans, including Brandon Evans’ Get Right or Get Left shirts and Rick Easter’s RLamar clothing line featuring popular players.

“It’s important to us to give locals a platform,” said White-Ready. “We saw a void in sneaker and fashion culture and wanted an opportunity to invest in things we’re passionate about and give back to a place we’ve all been attached to since birth.”

Collaboration is a key component of Laces success, and White-Ready credits “sneaker head” Eric Patterson Jr., a marketing consultant with WIBW and an artist, for assisting with a project to provide Highland Park varsity basketball players with customized shoes.

“We collaborated with Eric to create a unique design incorporating Highland Park’s colors and we gave the team the shoes at Christmas,” said White-Ready. “We’ve been in those players’ shoes and wanted to help them feel confident, motivated and supported on the court. We want to do that for other high school teams, not just for basketball but other sports too.”

White-Ready said he and his partners were so excited to start their business that they moved too fast to benefit from resources and incentives they could have received through the Washburn Small Business Development Center.

“We’d already spent our own money to get started so if you’re considering opening a business, check with Washburn first,” he said.

Although they were unable to take advantage of Washburn’s offerings, the Laces partners were able to benefit from entrepreneurial resources provided through GO Topeka, including business plan support and loan opportunities.

“No dream is too big,” said White-Ready. “If there’s something you think people can benefit from that you can provide, then just go for it. The worst thing that can happen will be that you fail and even then, you’ll learn a lot for the next idea.” TK

In addition to shoes, Laces sells sports team hats, gear and shirts from brands like Polo, The North Face and Timberland.

Photos by JOHN BURNS

ChatGPT EXPLAINED

By BOB BONCELLO, PH.D.

ChatGPT IS A CHATBOT.

If you have spent enough time on websites, you will have met a chatbot. It is the small dialogue box that appears without any prompting, generally on the lower right-hand side of the screen, asking the question, “Do you need help?” or “Can I help you?”

Let’s suppose you are surfing a website looking for a gift for a friend and a chatbot pops up. In response to the chatbot question “how may I help you?” you may respond with “I am looking for a gift for a friend.”

What might follow is a text dialog between you and the chatbot where the chatbot asks a series of questions. Each question is based on your response to the previous question. The chatbot is reflecting to you, in your language, so you may clarify for yourself what kind of gift you are seeking.

This kind of human/machine interaction is not new in the field of AI. This technique was used by AI pioneered by Joseph Weizenbaum. The program he created was the ELIZA program.

Constructed at the MIT Artificial Intelligence Laboratory from 1964 to 1966, ELIZA is an early natural language processing computer program. ELIZA simulated conversation by using vocabulary pattern matching and a substitution methodology that gave users an illusion of the program understanding the human’s intentions. This technique was expanded to operate within a specific context to create a chatbot. It works where there is a specific vocabulary and limited number of responses to questions within the context, especially for retail sales or help desks. For example, a chatbot can be used to guide users to fix printer problems that may occur.

Just as chatbots are an evolution of the ELIZA program, ChatGPT is an evolution of the chatbot technique. What ELIZA, Chatbots and ChatGPT have in common is a technique to process natural language. Natural language is one of the most widely used forms of communication between humans.

In the nearly 60 years since ELIZA first appeared, the techniques to process natural language have grown exponentially. ELIZA’s language skills are like that of a two-yearold mimicking words. Chatbots are most like middle-aged school children and their language skills. ChatGPT language skills are like those of a college graduate who had perfect scores on their SATs.

The ability to learn depends on language skills. As it happens, there is an enormous amount of knowledge to learn and is available on the Internet. A remarkable AI, a computer program that simulates human intelligence, can be created when these two resources are combined. This AI is ChatGPT. ChatGPT is a product of the company OpenAI.

INTELLIGENT OUTPUTS

ChatGPT is more than a simple AI. It is a Generative AI which is an AI that will produce an output. ChatGPT has

the capability to produce many outputs that may be considered intelligent.

ChatGPT can produce marketing plans; it can track an individual’s fitness and produce the optimal fitness routine for that

In mid-December I needed to renew my digital subscription to The New York Times. At that time The New York Times had two subscription choices: Basic Access or All Access. Each choice had its own subscription fee—Basic Access cost less than All Access. I wanted information about each so I could compare features. Using The New York Times website was not very useful. It seemed to prefer obfuscation over clarification. So, I turned to my old friend “The Google” for help. I conducted the following search using the word string: “Difference between The New York Times Basic vs All Access.”

The search returned about 2,400,000,000,000—yes 2.4 trillion links to websites. I was content to restrict myself to the first page of links. The first four adverts were paid advertisements for The New York Times which I had already seen. I was no closer to a

individual; it can generate computer programming code for building websites or solve computational problems.

ChatGPT can write narratives in the style of noted authors. It can be used to function as a personal

concise explanation of the difference between Basic Access and All Access.

I decided to logon to my ChatGPT account and entered the same prompt: “Difference between The New York Times Basic vs All Access.”

Within 20 seconds ChatGPT was displaying the following response:

The New York Times Basic is a subscription service that gives you access to a limited number of articles per month on The New York Times website and app. With a Basic subscription, you can read a certain number of articles each month for free, and you’ll need to pay to access additional articles beyond that limit.

The New York Times All Access is a more comprehensive subscription service that includes access to all of the articles on The

assistant that writes email, answers your questions, and manages your daily schedule. The “human” ChatGPT communication takes place using natural language. Here is an example of ChatGPT use:

New York Times website and app, as well as additional features such as access to The New York Times’ digital archives, crossword puzzles, and cooking recipes. All Access subscribers also get access to The Times’s daily briefing, The Daily, on their preferred platform, as well as exclusive events, discounts, and other perks.

In summary, The New York Times Basic is a more limited subscription service that allows you to read a certain number of articles each month for free, while The New York Times All Access is a more comprehensive subscription service that gives you unlimited access to all articles on The New York Times website and app, as well as additional features and perks.

HOW DOES ChatGPT DO THIS?

ChatGPT is chatbot constructed from GPT-3.

GPT-3 stands for Generative Pretrained Transformer version 3. GPT-3 is a Large Language Model Artificial Intelligence (LLM AI). It has 175 billion parameters. Its functionality includes the capability to create human-like writing in the style of a selected author (e.g., Ernest Hemingway, Jane Austin, et al). GPT-3 can do language translation, language modeling, mathematical calculations, and has other capabilities.

Combining these language capabilities with the text data that is available on the Internet gives GPT-3 the ability to process natural language, spoken and written, understand the information contained in the communication and respond accordingly.

GPT-3 and its derivative ChatGPT are language models that function on probability. As it is formulating a response it selects the next word based on the likelihood of what the next word will be. It is like that one friend who finishes sentences for you or blurts out the punch line of the joke you are telling.

WHAT’S THE FUTURE OF ChatGPT AND GPT-3?

Competition

Currently ChatGPT and GPT-3 from OpenAI are center stage for LLM AIs. As seen from the example on the previous page, Google is feeling the threat from ChatGPT. Google does have its version of an LLM AI. Google has declared a “Code Red” in its efforts to match and surpass OpenAI’s GPT-3 chatbot—ChatGPT.

More than Text

GPT-3 can only do text. It cannot create video, graphics, or sound. GPT-3 can only do spoken or written words. However, there are AIs that can model non-text intelligence. Dall-E2 can create images based on a textual prompt.

Consider the Past

Most of us can recall when we were accessing the Internet using dialup AOL. Perhaps ChatGPT is the equivalent of AOL in evolutionary terms.

So what’s next? It’s not certain— but it will be amazing. TK

Bob Boncello, Ph.D. Professor of Management Business Washburn University School of Business

THE BUSINESS AGENDA

John D. Rockefeller once said, “I believe that every right implies a responsibility; every opportunity, an obligation; every possession, a duty.”

However, Ben Parker, Spiderman’s uncle summed it up even better, “With great power comes great responsibility.”

It is important to be informed, to vote and to know the legislative priorities of the organizations that are working on your behalf. For business, a few of those organizations include The Kansas Chamber, the Topeka Chamber and METL, a regional coalition of the Manhattan, Emporia, Topeka, and Lawrence Chambers of Commerce. The following pages share some of the priorities for Kansas businesses.

2023 LEGISLATIVE & POLICY PRIORITIES

With headquarters in Topeka, the Kansas Chamber is the leading statewide, memberdriven organization that serves as the most credible legislative voice for the Kansas business community at the statehouse. Its president and CEO, Alan Cobb, said it is a reputation the Chamber doesn’t take lightly.

“Kansas has seen improvement in some economic metrics. Our regulatory climate has improved, and our employment laws are among the best in the nation. Unfortunately, the work is not done.”

—Alan Cobb President/CEO Kansas Chamber

“There is no other organization in the state focused on the laws, rules and regulations that impact a business’ operations like the Kansas Chamber,” Cobb said. “Regardless of the business sector or industry, what happens in Topeka at the Kansas Statehouse can help or hurt expansion and investment. The Chamber is there to stop the bad policy ideas and promote the good ones.”

The Chamber recently released its legislative and policy priorities in connection with the beginning of the

2023 legislative session in Topeka. The agenda’s priorities are based on the work of member working groups, months of conversations with business leaders across the state as well as research from the Chamber’s Annual Business Leaders Poll, Kansas Tax Modernization report, and the Kansas Competitiveness Analysis report.

“Kansas has seen improvement in some economic metrics. Our regulatory climate has improved, and our employment laws are among the best in the nation,” Cobb said. “Unfortunately, the work is not done. Actions taken by other states have made them more attractive to investment and to workers. We must act to become competitive.”

Pointing to examples of the challenges facing the state and its business community, Cobb said, “The lack of population growth continues to be a barrier for greater economic prosperity. And our legal climate has become favorable to the trial bar.”

Cobb said the Chamber’s 2023 agenda proposes how the state can address the challenges and seize on the opportunities before it. The agenda includes policy positions on numerous issues, but the Chamber will actively pursue about a dozen bills focused on five areas: taxes, workforce, legal reform, energy and regulations.

REDUCE THE TAX BURDEN

Tax revenues collected the last few years pushed Kansas’ annual receipts to record levels. The Chamber believes now is the time to further modernize the state’s tax codes to position our state to be regionally competitive and better attract investments and workforce.

The Chamber proposes replacing the state’s current multi-tier tax rates with a simple 5% rate for all taxpayers and businesses, exempting the first $15,000 in income.

Another tax bill to be introduced would grant corporations the choice between the current three-factor apportionment formula and a new, single-factor salesbased formula.

MEET WORKFORCE NEEDS

As we work to attract new businesses to Kansas and create a climate that encourages growth of existing entities, the strain on the state’s workforce will only get worse.

The Chamber will ask the Legislature to establish a new tax credit for employers who participate in the Kansas Registered Apprenticeship Program. Once thought of as a tool for unions to develop tradesmen, apprenticeships are great workforce solutions for small and larger employers, associations, and organizations across multiple industries and sectors.

The Chamber also will support policies to make childcare more affordable and accessible for Kansas workers by relaxing overly restrictive staff-tochild ratios and increasing childcare capacity across age groups.

ADOPT LEGAL REFORM

Kansas has become the 18th best state for trial lawyers as the state’s court system has eroded protections and expanded liability against businesses and individuals.

Requiring disclosure of third-party financing of litigation is among legal reform measures that the Chamber will seek during the session.

The Chamber also will support lowering prejudgment interest rates to bring Kansas in line with other states as well as legislation that reinstates caps on non-economic damages.

IMPROVE ENERGY COSTS

Kansas is the largest producer of wind energy in the world. However, this low-cost source of energy has not resulted in savings for Kansas ratepayers. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. Kansas continues to be the highest energy cost state in the region, making manufacturing and production of goods and materials expensive. Kansas must improve its energy costs to be more competitive.

The Chamber will support efforts to achieve regionally competitive electric rates and delivery costs as well as ensure uninterruptible service, regardless of the source of power.

STOP

OVERREACHING REGULATIONS

Cities and counties across the country, and in Kansas, are banning legal consumer merchandise and household products. These patchwork policies create a compliance nightmare and put businesses outside city limits or in another county at a competitive advantage over those regulated by these restrictions.

The Chamber will introduce legislation prohibiting local governments from banning consumer merchandise and plastic containers.

Vice-President of Government Affairs Eric Stafford leads the Chamber’s efforts at the

statehouse. He said it is imperative state lawmakers and the governor understand the impact their decisions have on the business community and the health of the state’s economy.

“Kansas is at a crucial point in its economic history,” Stafford said. “Overreaching, unnecessary laws and regulations can stop any progress. We look forward to working with the Kansas Legislature and Governor Laura Kelly on the issues important to the state’s business community so Kansas can become more competitive and a great state to do business.”

The Kansas Chamber’s 2023 Legislative and Policy Agenda can be found at www.KansasChamber.org/Advocacy.

2023 LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES

METL is a regional coalition of the Manhattan, Emporia, Topeka, and Lawrence Chambers of Commerce, which seeks to leverage the combined strength of nearly 3,000 member businesses and organizations, represented by 30 elected representatives and senators in the region.

METL is eager to work with state officials to explore creative solutions to the range of issues its member businesses say are their most pressing concerns.

CHILD CARE

Exploring solutions to the lack of available childcare which is presenting significant hardships for many families as they navigate the postpandemic workplace.

Responses could include easing the regulatory burden facing providers and funding creative ways to incentivize opportunities that would result in more children being safely cared for.

• Explore the benefits of universal pre-K education in Kansas.

• Maximize the use of matching federal dollars for Child Care Development Block Grants (CCDBG) by committing additional State General Fund dollars to early care and education.

• Expand Child Care Assistance Tax Credits and making them accessible to more businesses.

• Create a cabinet level Child Care czar to lead the state in developing collaborative, innovative solutions to the childcare crisis for working parents.

TRANSPORTATION

Protect existing transportation funding sources (sales tax, fuel tax, bonding, vehicle registration fees, etc.) and discontinuing the diversion of funds from the Kansas Highway Fund, effective FY 2023.

Undiminished funding of the Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program including working as an active partner to (i) move the project to replace and expand the South Lawrence Trafficway (K10) through the Development and Construction Pipelines; and (ii) ensure the Polk-Quincy Viaduct Project continues to completion without delay.

HIGHER EDUCATION

The requests of the Kansas Board of Regents to restore funding for public universities, community colleges, and technical colleges and proper funding of need-based student aid programs to ensure student access to private colleges and universities in Kansas.

MEDICAID EXPANSION

KanCare expansion will help stimulate the economy and create thousands of jobs. A study by an economist from Kansas State University found that expanding KanCare would create more than 23,000 new jobs. It would protect access to care and save jobs, especially in rural areas.

WORKFORCE HOUSING

Explore ways to help the residential real estate market regain its ability to keep up with the growing demand for quality housing in all our communities. Incentivize residential development by expanding the Rural Housing Incentive District (RHID) beyond just rural counties to help address housing shortages.

FISCALLY RESPONSIBLE TAXATION

We support a tax policy that encourages business growth and is competitive with surrounding states. This includes seeking ways to make state tax reporting requirements more business friendly, especially for small businesses; restoring the Research and Development income tax credit to all types of business entities; supporting the Kansas Framework for Growth, as well as existing incentives, such as the HPIP, PEAK and STAR bonds; and investing one-time federal funding in economic prosperity initiatives.

MILITARY

Strengthening the Governor’s Military Council. The GMC is a key partner with local communities, administration, legislators, the Kansas Congressional delegation, business, and military leaders to grow and optimize the military presence in Kansas, including recruitment and retention of new missions and force structure. The GMC leverages this growth into additional defense related industry and jobs.

2023 LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES

The Topeka Chamber is committed to the legislative priorities of METL with specific focus on childcare, housing and Medicaid expansion. In addition to the METL priorities, the Topeka Chamber is committed to two additional legislative priorities specific to Topeka and Shawnee County.

NAIR STRATEGIC INVESTMENTS

The Chamber will work our partners at the MTAA, GO Topeka and elected officials to identify the strategic investments that will be necessary to ensure Forbes, and the workforce in Shawnee County, are poised to take advantage of opportunities with NIAR WERX.

GATEWAY TO GROWTH

Greater access to the turnpike in SE & SW Shawnee County will unleash Topeka and Shawnee County’s economic potential. The Chamber will collaborate with City officials, KTA and KDOT, legislators and our federal delegation to marshal the resources necessary to build new turnpike interchanges in our community.

LAST WORD

JuliAnn MAZACHEK

PRESIDENT WASHBURN UNIVERSITY

QWhat is your vision for Washburn University?

My vision for Washburn University is our vision. Working with university leaders, faculty, staff, students, alumni and community stakeholders, we will create a vision for Washburn that is innovative, collaborative and bold. There is an incredibly bright future for Washburn.

It is a challenging time in higher education. Washburn, like most institutions, faces enrollment challenges and changing student demographics. Working as a team, we will prepare for and embrace a future that is ready for new ideas to

Photo by JENNIFER GOETZ

Photo by JENNIFER GOETZ

best meet the needs of students and our communities. Academic courses and programs along with delivery methods may need to change while, at the same time, we continue initiatives to make college affordable.

We know the tremendous importance of educating our future workforce, business owners, thought leaders and community partners. The vitality of our communities and economy depends on the next generation which is why Washburn continues to always put students first.

QWhat is Washburn doing right that you hope to capitalize on?

True to its history, Washburn continues to be a student-centered university committed to open access. Devoted to excellence in teaching, our smaller class sizes allow our accomplished faculty to connect with students inside and outside of the classroom and form real relationships, helping students navigate their university life to success even after graduation. We prepare students who are ready to contribute in their workplace, to be leaders in our businesses and communities, and to build and grow a thriving economy for our state.

We continue to launch initiatives to help students succeed. Staying true to our historical mission of open enrollment, we are committed to equitable outcomes for all students. We meet students where they are and help them achieve their educational goals and dreams. Through the campus-wide efforts led by our faculty and our Center for Student Success and Retention, Washburn recently reported a graduation rate of 54% which reflects a university record and the highest rate among Kansas’ regional universities. Many of our students are first-generation students making the increase from 36% even more notable and important.

Washburn continues to create new initiatives to make the cost of college more affordable. We recently unveiled a new scholarship grid for incoming freshmen beginning in the fall of 2023, providing significantly more scholarship dollars for students based solely on their high school GPA. ACT or SAT scores are no longer required.

In addition, we have established a Zero Textbook Cost (ZTC) course marking initiative. Students in a ZTC course are not required to purchase primary

materials for teaching or learning such as textbooks. It is projected that, all students combined avoid total textbook costs of more than $400,000 per semester. I believe these are just a few factors that prompted U.S. News and World Report to rank Washburn University as the top public regional university in the state and the 14th best in the entire Midwest. Washburn also is listed as having the lowest student debt in Kansas, the fifth lowest

among similar institutions in the Midwest, according to the 2022-2023 rankings.

QWhat are your top priorities for Washburn?

Growing enrollment is our top priority at Washburn University. For more than a decade, college enrollment nationwide has been steadily declining. Demographic factors such as falling birth rates, rising education costs and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic are impacting the number of students choosing to pursue education after high school. We will be working diligently to grow the workforce with highly qualified graduates who are ready to work and contribute to the economic vitality of Topeka and our state.

Universities across the country are competing to attract more students to their universities and to higher education. Washburn is committed to doing a better job of telling our story and ensuring students and their parents know the exceptional educational opportunities we make available in such a great community. We have a pathway to educational success no matter what your career dreams or goals. We truly are the best place to pursue an education. We work hard to make sure every student has the best opportunity to succeed. Our vibrant campus allows them to live and learn in facilities that are modern while paying tribute to our rich history spanning more than 150 years.

Students may study abroad or jump-start their careers by seeking internships with area businesses. Others take advantage of our close proximity to the Capitol by working in state government. The opportunities are nearly limitless.

Another priority is to listen. Through meetings with individuals and groups on campus as well as stakeholders in our community, I am eager to imagine the future together and discover the bold hopes and dreams for Washburn University, the important role Washburn will have in growing our community, and then most importantly to bring those shared goals and vision to reality.

My final priority is challenging the status quo. We know the achievement of bold goals will only be possible with a bold approach to reimagining, innovating and collaborating around the ways we serve and teach our students, we work with our business community, and the contributions we make to ensure a solid workforce and thriving economy for the future.

Q

How will you build on Washburn’s connection to Topeka?

The Topeka and Shawnee County communities are experiencing a tremendous amount of energy and momentum right now, and Washburn University continues to be a core part of that. By collaborating with our state and local leaders as well as area business partners, Washburn strives to meet community needs and prepare students to live, work, prosper and belong here. Our graduates are an integral part of the local economy. Washburn alums are leaders and important members of their agencies, companies and organizations. We hope to keep that pipeline flowing. A special component of that is Washburn Tech and the importance its graduates play in the workforce. We will continue looking for new ways to strengthen those partnerships.

I want everyone in Topeka to know Washburn University and Washburn Tech. To know the amazing stories

of our students and graduates, to readily know the great educational opportunities we offer for students, and to know the important difference we make in the community we are committed to serving and growing. We walk together with our community partners in making Topeka and Shawnee County the very best place in Kansas to live, work and learn.

QWhat are you most proud of about Washburn?

During my first interview on campus 30 years ago, I looked for signs that Washburn cared about its students. What I saw then and what I see now is the same. Washburn University is unwavering in its commitment to creating one of the very best student-focused institutions in our state and region. A place where students are known—not numbered. Faculty and staff are genuinely committed to the success of our students and supporting them in achieving their educational goals and dreams.

I have experienced this approach as an educator, administrator and even a parent. Two of my children are Washburn University graduates and I observed, firsthand, the life-changing impact caring faculty had on my children and the difference they can make in the lives of all students. Washburn University is a very special place.

I am also proud and extremely honored to serve as Washburn University’s first female president. While it’s not a focus, I realize the significance of being the first woman in this position. It motivates me, even more, to be the best leader possible as we continue on this amazing journey of moving Washburn University forward. Go Bods! TK

Washburn University’s Master of Business Administration program provides the knowledge and real-world experience necessary to advance your career and enhance your professional skills, regardless of your academic background or prior work experience.

Whatever type of program you’re wanting –traditional in-person, completely virtual or something in-between – Washburn’s MBA program can accommodate. Our program is designed to be flexible and completely customizable to meet the needs of working professionals like you. You can take classes part-time at your own pace or finish your degree in as few as 12 months.

In our program, you’ll learn from our diverse faculty with vast real-world experience and professional connections. You’ll build on your managerial, communication and leadership skills, leading to numerous personal and professional opportunities to transform your career and take you to the next level professionally.

Apply today at washburn.edu/mba

Three convenient start dates: January, June and August For more info: mba@washburn.edu or 785.670.1308

Master of Business Administration

Carter Receives President’s Award for Excellence

The

Future is Bright for The Trust Company of Kansas

The Trust Company of Kansas announced several promotions.

Matthew Broderick

Assistant Vice President & Trust Officer

Paul F. Fowler, C.T.F.A.

Senior Vice President & Trust Officer

Kalie Gillock

Marketing Officer

Carol J. Lindner

Senior Vice President – Compliance & AML Officer

Lisa Mauck

Senior Vice President & Operations Officer

Terry Richards, C.T.F.A.

Senior Vice President & Trust Officer

Ramona Riggs

Trust Officer

Mary Rupp

Assistant Vice President & Cashier

Jess Sojka

Trust Officer

Hannah Carter, branch manager of Envista Federal Credit Union’s North Topeka location, received the President’s Award for Excellence. In addition, the branch she manages in North Topeka, at Highway 24 and Rochester Road, won the Branch of the Year Award for their commitment and focus on member experience.

Shawnee County Reports Record Population Growth in 2022

Data certified in 2022 by the Kansas Division of the Budget report Shawnee County recently recorded its largest singleyear growth in population in 10 years. That increase of 2,265 new residents represents the highest single-year percentage growth among the top-five largest counties by population in Kansas. With 1.3% year-overyear growth, Shawnee County grew faster on a percentage basis than Johnson County (+1.0%), Sedgwick County (+0.8%), Wyandotte County (+1.1%) and Douglas County (-2.6%).

PT’s Coffee Roasting Co. Celebrates 30 Years

Founded as a small cafe in 1993, PT’s rose to prominence upon being named Roast Magazine’s Roaster of the Year in 2009. Today, PT’s operates three cafes in Kansas City and Topeka, an online retail business, and a wholesale program supplying partners nationwide.

MB Piland 25th Anniversary Shines a Light on Student Needs with Punctuating the Period

MB Piland Advertising + Marketing launched a campaign called Punctuating the Period, designed to fight period poverty in Topeka Public Schools. The campaign is part of the firm’s celebration of 25 years in business. The campaign aims to collect donations of period products for Topeka Public Schools and educate on the issue of period poverty.

Harris Fabrication Expansion in Topeka Projected to Make $175M Economic Impact

Topeka and Shawnee County’s Joint Economic Development Organization (JEDO) board approved an incentive agreement that will aid in the expansion of Harris Fabrication, an existing manufacturing business in Topeka that provides world-class metal fabrication services. The expansion is expected to result in an estimated economic impact locally of $175 million over 10 years, with Harris Fabrication preparing to make a $2.1 million capital investment.

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