TK Business Magazine Fall 2016 by E2 Communications & Publishing

FALL 2016

TK Business Magazine

The story of Dave is the story of us.

We know Dave. So we work tirelessly to provide him the advanced care he needs. Like our back pain services, where a team of experts repaired his damaged spine â&#x20AC;&#x201D; from surgery to recovery. Daveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s back is back.

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CONTENTS

FEATURES ► PG 10

Navigating Partisan Polarization Conducting business in the age of political discord. ► PG 12

Double Double—Book Review AE's David Callanan shares his view of the book by Cameron Herold. ► PG 16

The Immigration Debate A look at the economic impact of immigration. ► PG 20

INVESTING IN OTHERS

A Century of Investing in Downtown Three longtime businesses have stayed in downtown Topeka through the good times and the bad.

► PG 28

10 Years in Review TK Business Magazine celebrates 10 years. ► PG 36

Investing in Others Cody Foster makes an investment in the future of Topeka. ► PG 42

The New Smoke Break Smart phones and social media in the workplace.

IT'S ALL IN THE NAME

► PG 50

It's All in the Name Discover three businesses that offer you a different kind of entertainment. ► PG 58

NetWork Kansas e-Community Opening the doors for small business in and around Topeka and Shawnee County. ► PG 60

Heart of the Entrepreneur Jeff Herman introduces Herman's Meat & Smokehouse. ► PG 64

High Profit Margin Businesses Michael Hooper shares his list of industries to watch.

LAST WORD

IN EVERY ISSUE ► PG 66

TK Business Experts • Laura Sidlinger • William Beteta • Pamela Hann • Bryon Schlosser ► PG 77

Scene About Town

Who's who at local business events.

► PG 82

HEART OF THE ENTREPRENEUR

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Last Word Q & A with Gary Starr, Owner of Gary's Berries and Financial Advisor with Edward Jones Investments.

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For more information, visit: www.TopekaENT.com/ent-services.html FALL 2016

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FROM THE PUBLISHER

The power of two words. Tara Dimick Tara@TKMagazine.com

If you are anything like me, you get constant advice—from family, friends, even Facebook. I have discovered that some of the best advice comes in the form of just two simple words. Words that can play over and over in my head like a broken record reminding me and guiding me on what is important in building success. DO MORE. Pat Gideon of Silver Lake Bank gave me these two words of advice as I started my business and acquired TK Business Magazine. I doubt he even remembers saying it to me, but those two words have added fuel to my work ethic, driven my company to grow, and inspired purpose behind our decisions. When you do more than your competition, more than the customer expects, more for your community, more than you thought you could do, success follows. BE SEXY. If you were at the 2016 Junior Achievement of Kansas Topeka Business Hall of Fame event in March, you heard these two words, “Be Sexy,” from Hall of Fame Laureate Eugene Williams of KTWU. Being sexy in business happens when you go above and beyond for the customer to give them what they didn’t even know they wanted. I see being sexy as that wow factor, the emotional response that keeps a customer or client coming back for more.

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BE BOLD. At a meeting regarding the economic growth for Topeka and Shawnee County, CEO of Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce and GO Topeka Matt Pivarnik arrived wearing a suit that might have been made from couch upholstery—it was a bold wardrobe choice to say the least. Matt said he had never worn this head-to-toe plaid suit in Topeka, even though it is his favorite, because he was playing it safe. But Matt’s vision for Topeka is bold, and he decided it was time for him to personally embody that vision—by putting on the suit, wearing it with pride, and encouraging Topeka to be bold. Businesses that win create products, services and cultures that are bold, and by doing so, they are innovative and lead the competition. Businesses that thrive never settle for status quo. Be Bold. Be Sexy. Do More.

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CHECK OUT WHAT'S ON

magazine.com Check out TKMagazine.com to keep up on business happenings in Topeka. Get expert business advice and up-to-date information on business in Topeka. Send your news releases to tara@tkmagazine.com. Trending now: BUSINESS GROWTH

BUSINESS NEWS SIX HONORED AS WOMEN OF INFLUENCE

FINANCIAL:

IS YOUR PROFILE TOO SPICY? Mark Reinert, CFP® Reinert Wealth Management

JUST DO SOMETHING Kelly Pierce Advisors Excel

STORMONT VAIL HEALTH RECOGNIZED BY U.S. NEWS & WORLD REPORT

MARKETING:

BRANDERS: TAKE THAT FOOT OUT OF YOUR MOUTH

DR. JASON MEYERS JOINS TOPEKA EAR NOSE & THROAT

Martha Bartlett-Piland MB Piland Advertising + Marketing LEADERSHIP:

3 QUESTIONS TO HELP YOU RETHINK YOUR JOB Todd Averett Leading People Partners

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Hosted by Tara Dimick, Owner & Publisher of TK Business Magazine

SUNDAYS 11:30 AM - 12:00 PM

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Hosted by Tara Dimick, Owner & Publisher of TK Business Magazine

READ MORE AT TKMAGAZINE.COM

WORKING CAPITAL is about local and regional businesses within the KTWU viewing area. As an on-going series, WORKING CAPITAL showcases entrepreneurship and provides an atmosphere for sharing business concepts and practical business experiences. Aspects of the program also educate the up-and-coming entrepreneur and inspire business owners by focusing on specific business professionals, corporate leaders and innovative thinkers. Tune in to KTWU-HD, Digital Channel 11.1.

Share your news on TKmagazine.com. Email your business news to tara@tkmagazine.com

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EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Lisa Loewen ASSISTANT EDITOR Lyndie Copeland CREATIVE DIRECTOR/DESIGNER Janet Faust CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Keith Horinek Rachel Lock Rob Nall Megan Rogers CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lisa Loewen Karen Ridder Jamie Slack Adam Vlach Kathy Webber

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT:

PUBLISHER Tara Dimick

@TK...Topeka's Business Magazine

TK Business Magazine

@TK Business

CONTRIBUTING EXPERTS William Beteta Paul Byrne, Ph.D. David Callanan Pamela Hann Michael Hooper Bryon Schlosser Dr. Laura Sidlinger ADVERTISING SALES Tara Dimick 785.217.4836 tara@tkmagazine.com PUBLISHING COMPANY E2 Communications PO Box 67272 Topeka, KS 66667 785.217.4836 FOUNDER ǀ Kevin Doel

tkmagazine.com 2016 TK Business Magazine is published by E2 Communications, Inc. 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.

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TALKING POLITICS

Bob Beatty is a political analyst for KSNT News and columnist for the Topeka Capital Journal.

PHOTO PROVIDED BY KSNT NEWS

Navigating Partisan Polarization "Abstaining from all politics can rob communities of talented people who can contribute expertise to solve problems." —Bob Beatty EDITOR: We live in the state capital, where politics are a part of our daily lives. But it seems from many discussions with business owners that the risk of engaging in political conversations has increased, both in discussions about state politics as well as federal politics. For a business owner, the risk is the possible loss of a client because even a calmly stated opinion can be a deal breaker. If business owners, and business professionals, cannot speak their mind without fear of losing clients, how can they engage in the political conversation? What does the community, the state and the country need from business owners and business professionals? How do we talk about the real issues and work together when we are so divided?

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BEATTY: Indeed, according to political science research, polling, and just plain observation, partisan polarization has increased dramatically in the last 20 years. And this polarization has not only impacted elections—Republicans voting only for Republicans and Democrats voting only for Democrats—but is also reflected in the way people interact. Research has shown that conservatives talk less to liberals than they used to, and vice-versa. This factor then increases the polarization, and a selfperpetuating cycle can ensue.

For business owners and business professionals, politics can become a minefield in this more partisan environment. Many may be tempted to abstain from all politics, to go with what seems like the majority opinion, or bend with the wind, agreeing with whomever you happen to be talking to at that moment. All three are not optimal. Abstaining from all politics can rob communities of talented people who can contribute expertise to solve problems. “Going along” with the majority is difficult because majority opinion can change quickly. Finally, agreeing with everyone about everything is not only fake, but also exhausting.

SO WHAT TO DO? ACKNOWLEDGE Business owners and professionals do need to acknowledge partisan politics as a reality, that some of their clients may feel passionately about politics, and that their business may be already involved in partisan politics, albeit inadvertently. This most commonly happens when the business is a member of an association or organization that not only gets involved in political campaigns but also favors one political faction over another. And this may not be Democrat-Republican, but could be much more tribal. For example, in the recent First Congressional District in Kansas, in the Republican primary, the Kansas Chamber of Commerce favored one candidate while the U.S. Chamber of Commerce favored another. In short, every business should do an “audit” of the associations it belongs to and whether that membership puts it in a political position, and if so, whether that’s the position it wants to be in. FOCUS Businesses and business professionals may best become involved in politics by focusing on core issues rather than partisan fights, or even elections. Believe it or not, polling has consistently shown that there are some core issues in which most Americans can agree on, and will not get angry if they see someone earnestly attempting to work toward solving one or more of those issues. I’m sure business professionals can think of many such issues, but some would include: A strong infrastructure (roads, bridges, highways), low crime rates, good schools, a sound, stable tax structure, clean air and water, honest and efficient government and police, help for our veterans, healthy children, and equal treatment for all people (clients and customers included). In short, businesses and business professionals may be “neutral” on partisanship, but rather than a risk, it would seem a benefit for a company to be “for” one or more of the above issues. One of the reasons polarization has increased in America is because so many people view issues through a partisan lens. But businesses do not have to play that game. Businesses and business professionals can play a role that they used to play in communities 50 years ago, which is one of actively being involved in the key issues that make a city and state function and thrive. They can turn the political calculus upside down in a way that allows them to openly and freely participate. Political parties do not own our core issues; both Republicans and Democrats want good roads, safe neighborhoods, and clean water, for example, and corruption from any government entity, from police to city council, is not only bad for a political entity but also bad for business. Every business and business professional can decide for themselves what issues they care the most about and how they want to be involved. But the key is they can be involved in many issues in a way that will endear them to their customers and clients and allow them to participate in the political process— once they realize that politics doesn’t just mean advocating for a party or TK supporting a candidate.

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BOOK REVIEW

I read Double Double about six months ago and realized that at Advisors Excel we were already implementing many of the suggestions offered by the book. Let me share some of the main ideas Cameron presents in Double Double and how we are implementing those at AE.

PHOTO SUBMITTED

By DAVID CALLANAN

David Callanan is a co-founder of Advisors Excel.

CREATE A VIVID VISION A Vivid Vision is a written document that describes in graphic detail what you envision your company will look and feel like three years from now. Get out of your office and turn off your distractions. Think about “WHERE” you want your company to be, not “HOW” to get there. When your vision becomes vivid, an incredible alignment takes place, and employees end up being as aligned as a team of fighter pilots. IMPLEMENTATION At AE, we knew that if we wanted 400 people to move in the same direction, our roadmap needed to be crystal clear. That is where a Vivid Vision became critical.

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REVERSE ENGINEER YOUR GOALS AND PROJECTS. Every company will have projects related to revenue, profit and customer service that they tie to measurable outcomes. Once goals are established, you need to determine which projects will make your Vivid Vision a reality. Categorize projects by importance and priority. Then it's time to vote. Allow the leadership team to vote on the project(s) they think will have the most impact on attaining the overall objective and are the most urgent in terms of the annual goals. IMPLEMENTATION We do this all the time at AE. For example, we may have 22 projects listed under marketing. The six people on the leadership team each get four votes. They can distribute their votes however they wish—all four votes on one project, one vote on four different projects, etc. I try to limit the projects we commit to annually and focus on the critical few verses the important many. Once your key projects have been identified, ensuring that a step-by-step action plan is in place for each goal is key. What process has to happen? In what order will the steps be taken? Who will complete each step? When will each step be done? What is the cost? What other business areas are involved? The person who owns the project is responsible for ensuring that all these milestones are thought-out, assigned, and supported to make sure the project gets done.

CREATE A WORLD-CLASS CULTURE A company has to focus on developing a plan to foster and grow a fantastic working environment for its employees. Start with creating a world-class workspace. Be collaborative. Make the workplace a fun and inviting place to be. Connect with your employees and empower them to help the business grow. IMPLEMENTATION We have been doing this at AE since day one. We have an internal FUN Committee that is tasked with making the office a fun place to work. They plan sports tournaments, holiday parties, tailgates, AE Olympics and more. We bring in motivational speakers and arrange employee trips. We ask our employees what we can do to make their jobs more rewarding. We maximize our 401K match. We also give employees time off to volunteer in the community, Don't underestimate the power of just hanging out with your employees.

FOCUSED ACTIONS FOR FAST GROWTH This includes focused hiring to make sure you have the best people for the task. It involves focused communication so that everyone in your company can communicate with one another and with the outside world. It also means focusing on reining in your non-productive meetings so that every meeting you have is energetic, focused and productive. Different Types of Meetings: Quarterly Business Area Review Every business area presents the following: What was accomplished during the prior quarter. A plan to drive metrics and get projects accomplished in the upcoming quarter. Weekly Action Review (WAR) The first 30 minutes of WAR requires that each person gives a quick three to five minutes update that answers these questions What went well last week? What didn't go well last week? What are the three things I'll be working on this week? For the second 30 minutes, the team reviews the metrics on the dashboard for that business area, looking for areas of concern as well as bright spots. During the final 30 minutes, the group tries to unstick some of the areas that team members were stuck on earlier. IMPLEMENTATION At AE, we hold Leader-Lead Meetings every two weeks. Leadership has individuals who report directly to them present a quick bulletin that outlines the following: What they accomplished in the prior two weeks. What's working in their respective business areas. What could be improved in their business areas.

UNDERSTAND THE ROLLER COASTER RIDE OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP In the final section of the book, Cameron outlines the importance of understanding the emotional roller coaster that comes with entrepreneurship. Knowing that there will be highs and lows, and learning to navigate those fluctuations, are important factors for growth. Cameron’s advice: Don’t say it; do it. Stop saying you want to do things. Stop saying you want to try things. Make a commitment to stop saying you're going to do something, and just do it. TK

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ADVERTORIAL

“We understand, like the fire department, we provide a service nobody wants to use, but it is a life-saving service nobody wants to be without.”

—Greg Hildenbrand, Life Star of Kansas Executive Director

If there is a medical emergency in northeast Kansas, quick, decisive action can be the difference between life and death. For nearly 30 years, Life Star of Kansas has been serving the region with lifesaving medical transportation. “Our job is to securely transport individuals with medical emergencies as quickly and as safely as possible to the nearest hospital,” explains Greg Hildenbrand, Life Star of Kansas Executive Director.

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“We understand the importance of what we do and we do not take our responsibility lightly.” Life Star of Kansas is headquartered in Topeka with operating bases at the airports in Junction City and Lawrence. The company has a fleet of helicopters and ambulances and is on call 24 hours a day serving the majority of northeast Kansas. In 2015, Life Star of Kanas served 760 patients. “We understand, like the fire department, we provide a

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service nobody wants to use,” Hildenbrand says. “But we also know that if we do our job well, we can save a life.” Life Star of Kansas has flown a number of different types of aircraft throughout its history. Starting in a Bell 206L1 LongRanger, the service now utilizes AgustaWestland; AW119Ke and AW109S Grand, and an Airbus AS350B2. Life Star selects its aircraft based on many factors, including safety of aviation operations, speed and patient care capabilities.

board and the local hospitals Maintaining and "Greg and his board needed wanted his organization to be upgrading a fleet of a quick response and were in the future. We approved helicopters is an incredibly becoming uncomfortable the request and funded the important, and expensive, with the position they found deposit on the new helicopter operation. themselves in, needing within a week. The aircraft When the company to fund a deposit soon to was delivered about a month needed to upgrade its aircraft ensure timely delivery of the later. fleet in 2002, Kaw Valley Bank helicopter it was purchasing. "Since 2002, we’ve stepped up to help. Life Star The risk and complexity of helped with the acquisition had found it difficult to secure the requested financing was of multiple aircraft for this the financing it needed more than outweighed by the organization. Life Star locally. The process for a obvious need of the borrower appears to be right on track community bank financing and the benefit the new with its plan as we discussed the acquisition of specialized equipment would create for it 14 years ago.” equipment, particularly our region. Working with Life Star is aircraft equipment, for a "We were impressed with not-for-profit organization Life Star’s overall business a point of pride for Heideman is somewhat unusual and operation and plan moving and Kaw Valley Bank. “We don’t take for complex. forward. Greg was very granted the service they “When we met with prepared and had an exciting provide our community Greg and Life Star, it was plan in place for where his apparent that and region,” Heideman this region’s says. “Being air ambulance “The relationship between Life Star and Kaw Valley Bank able to help service was up has become a key to the success of our organization. The them purchase against some financing they have provided has given us the ability to new equipment tight timelines.” upgrade equipment and better serve the community. They and maintain says Craig the safest fleet Heideman, Kaw are quick to respond to any question and are very good possible has Valley Bank partners.” been extremely Chief Credit —Greg Hildenbrand gratifying for Officer. us.” Heideman goes on to say,

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HOT TOPIC IMMIGRATION

The Immigration Debate The impact of immigration on receiving countries has taken center stage in public debates across the globe. Of particular concern is immigrationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s impact on the wages and job prospects of existing workers. Opponents of immigration often contend that large influxes of migrating workers depress wages and job prospects of existing workers, whereas proponents often contend that migrating workers take jobs the economy would otherwise struggle to fill with their presence having a trivial effect on the wages and job prospects of existing workers. The immigration debate is not unique to the United States and Europe, as the conflict plays out in countries throughout the globe. Nor is it a new phenomenon, as the concerns about immigrationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s impact on native workers has ebbed and flowed since the mid-1800s. Although not the only factor influencing the debate, the fears that immigration contributes to economic insecurity represents a significant component of the debate. So what does economic theory and empirical evidence inform us about how immigration affects labor markets? The most apparent impact of immigration on labor markets is the increase in the supply of workers. Elementary economic theory tells us that an increase in market supply results in lower prices, in this case, wages of workers. However, immigration has a second impact on labor markets, as immigrants are both workers and consumers. As consumers, immigrants use their earnings to pay taxes and demand goods and services in the

Depressed wages and job impact of existing workers vs. the belief that migrant workers take jobs that would otherwise go unfilled is arguably the debate. The real question is how does immigration truly affect the economy? By PAUL BYRNE PhD

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economy, which in turn increases employersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; demand for workers. Thus, immigration has two impacts on labor markets: an increase in both the supply of labor and the demand for labor. As a result, evaluating the impact of immigration on wages depends not on the absolute amount of workers entering an economy, but instead on the relative size of the increases in supply and demand caused by the influx of workers. In the most elementary analysis, if immigration increases the population by 15%, the economy has 15% more workers and 15% more consumers. Figure 1 illustrates this scenario as supply and demand in the labor market both increase by the same proportion, resulting in no net impact on wages and a proportional increase in the number of jobs in the economy. In FIGURE 1, immigration has no effect on existing workers, as wages are unchanged and the number of jobs expands to meet the increase in supply. However, the real impact can deviate from this base scenario if immigrants are disproportionately represented in certain labor markets. For example, if economists make up a larger share of current migrants than in the existing population, then the supply of economists would increase by more than the increase in the demand for economists. Conversely, if economists make up a smaller share of current migrants than in the existing population, then the reverse would occur: the supply of economists would increase by less than the increase in demand. FIGURE 2, shows the impact on labor markets with larger supply shifts. In these markets wages decrease and employment increases by an amount less than the influx of new workers, meaning some current workers would be without jobs in this occupation.

FIGURE 1

FIGURE 2

In FIGURE 3, the opposite happens in labor markets with bigger demand shifts. In these markets wages increase and employment increases by an amount more than the influx of new workers, meaning more existing workers become employed in these occupations. In economics, it is taken as a given that immigration increases overall economic output, as the additional workers are additional economic resources for the economy. In many ways the economic debate centers on the distributional impacts of immigration. Current workers, both native and foreign born, in labor markets like Figure 2 are harmed through lower wages. However, those lower wages result in lower costs for employers that hire these workers and lower

FIGURE 3

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PERCENT FOREIGN BORN WORKERS BY EDUCATION ATTAINMENT EDUCATION ATTAINMENT HS Degree or Less Some College (No Degree) Associate's Degree Bachelor's Degree Master's Degree Professional Degree (MD, JD, etc.) Doctorate Degree (PhD, EdD, etc.) All Workers

Paul Byrne, PhD is an Associate Professor of Economics at Washburn University School of Business.

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% OF WORKERS FOREIGN BORN 19.4% 9.5% 10.4% 13.0% 15.7% 15.9% 25.9% 14.6%

By this rough measure of labor markets, workers on the ends of the educational spectrum, those with Doctorates or HS Degrees or Less, compete with more foreign born workers than the 14.6% average, suggesting Figure 2 would be a more accurate model for these workers. Workers with Some College or Associate’s Degrees, on the other hand, face below average competition from foreign born workers, suggesting Figure 3 better represents these labor markets. The proportion of workers with Bachelor’s, Master’s or Professional Degrees that are foreign born are closer to the average proportion for the workforce as a whole, suggesting Figure 1 is more representative of these markets.

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What these differences in the proportion of foreign born workers mean for actual wages depends greatly on additional factors, such as how many more (less) workers firms hire in response to lower (higher) wages. George Borjas, a prominent labor economist, estimated the impact of the proportion of foreign-born workers on wages using more narrow occupational categories than the table above. Nonetheless, he found that a 10 percentage point change in the number of foreign born workers was correlated with a 3.7 percentage point decline in wage growth. Based on these estimates, compared to an occupational category with the average number of foreign born workers, one with 19.4% foreign born workers would experience 1.8% less wage growth. Conversely, an occupational category with 13% foreign born workers would experience 0.6% greater wage growth than average. The issue of immigration can often spur heated arguments with both sides often emphasizing some factors, while ignoring others. When considering immigration’s impact on labor markets, it may be useful to recognize that market forces make little distinction between the sources of additional supply and demand. Whether new workers migrate from another country or from a neighboring state, the impact on labor markets are the same. So whatever one presumes is the impact of an international migration of workers with a particular skill profile on the national economy, one should also presume a comparable impact on a state economy from a migration of similarly skilled workers from other US states. And vice TK versa.

Photo by MEGAN ROGERS PHOTOGRAPHIE

prices for their customers. As a result, producers and consumers of goods and services that employ these workers benefit. Similarly, although existing workers in labor markets like Figure 3 benefit from higher wages, the higher costs hurts producers and consumers of goods and services that use these workers’ labor. The biggest beneficiaries in all three scenarios are the immigrant workers themselves, who experience significant increases in their well-being as a result of their migration to the US. So in light of the theory, what can we presume about the impact in the real world? The table below shows the percentage of foreign born workers by educational attainment, which can be thought of as a broad measure of distinct labor markets, taken from the Census Bureau’s 2014 American Community Survey.

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A Century of Investing in Downtown By ADAM VLACH Photos by RACHEL LOCK PHOTOGRAPHY Excitement about a revitalized downtown continues to escalate with the promise of new businesses and entertainment opportunities for people in Topeka. Both private companies and the city itself are making a significant investment in downtown Topeka. Pocket parks dot the sidewalk along Kansas Avenue; updated infrastructure brings businesses into the 21st century; and a contagious buzz of anticipation fills the air. While the prospect of new and exciting businesses is the talk of the town, there are several businesses that have been investing in Topeka for nearly a centuryâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; through the ups and the downs. Businesses that fell and got back up from the Great Depression. Businesses that made it through World War II, the Vietnam War and the Cold War. Businesses that survived the economic recession that started in 2008. These longtime businesses have been in downtown Topeka for the good times and the bad, and they are truly its heart and soul. Photo submitted

1910

Briman's Leading Jewelers started as a luggage business, which eventually evolved exclusively to a jewelry store by the 1960s. PG.

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1924

Wolfe's Camera Shop was founded as a film developing business that expanded to a camera store after World War II.

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PG.

1927

Topeka Blueprint & Supply Co. opened just a few years prior to the Great Depression and switched to survival mode until the end of World War II. PG.

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Briman's Leading Jewelers When you are in the business of selling something that lasts forever, you need to find a way to make your company stand out, and that’s what a longtime diamond and jewelry business in Topeka believes it has nailed down.

or three generations, Briman's Leading Jewelers has had an unyielding commitment to provide quality products. Morris Briman started a business around 1910 in Topeka, which eventually became Briman’s Leading Jewelers in 1940. “He had a luggage business,” Rob Briman said of his grandfather’s original business. “It was Briman’s Luggage. He was also in the pawn business in the early years.” After World War II, Rob Briman’s father, Dale, and Briman Latta’s father, Bernie, joined their father Morris in business, which is around the time when the company began selling jewelry in addition to luggage and other goods. In the late 1950s and early 1960s, the business began weeding out the sales of other merchandise and started concentrating solely on fine jewelry. Business was rough for Dale and Bernie Briman during the 1950s, and Morris Briman himself even went bankrupt during the Great Depression and was forced to restart his business. Rob Briman and Debbie Briman Latta both joined as salespersons at their fathers’ company in 1979 and became the sole owners in 2008—just in time for the economic downturn. The company, which had seen expansion in 1988 with the opening of another store and as many as 18 employees during the early 2000s, found itself forced to make a decision to close the second location in West Ridge Mall and consolidate to a single store in 2008. “We inherited our ownership of the company in really tough times and had to make some tough decisions to keep the company viable,” Rob Briman said. But the one thing that the co-owners believe has always given them an edge over competitors, namely chain stores, was

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Briman's tenured staff includes Larry Pressman, Carol Briman, Colleen Velez, Debbie Briman Latta and Rob Briman. the one thing they were unwilling to sacrifice during tough financial times: the quality of their products. “One thing we never did is sell lower quality,” Briman Latta said. “Our grandfather, our fathers, and Rob and I have always stayed with quality, and that was one thing we were not going to compromise.” That unyielding commitment to quality is more than just in the jewelry, however. It is also in the relationships that the company has established over the three generations that it has been in business. “When Debbie and I joined the company, there were already two generations of people doing business with us, bringing their children in, and we are now doing business with fourth generation people that started with our grandfather all those years ago,” Rob Briman said. “The relationships that we have established have been the reward.”

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FALL 2016

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2006-2016

YEARS IN REVIEW

By KATHY WEBBER HIS YEAR MARKS TK Business Magazineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 10th year in production, so we decided to take a look at what Topekaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s business community has experienced over the past 10 years. New businesses have come to Topeka, others have left, and many have seen significant growth. It would be impossible to include all the business news of Topeka over the past 10 years, but the next few pages will include many of the highlights.

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A number of significant decisions were a result of the quarter-cent sales tax that began in 2003 and later turned into a half-cent tax in 2005. This tax is for the purpose of economic development, and the building of roads and bridges. Go Topeka and the Joint Economic Development Organization (JEDO) work together to distribute the tax dollars in order to entice outside companies to move to

Topeka and local companies to stay. Go Topeka, Shawnee County and the city of Topeka worked together to offer Target a 143-acre site valued at $1.5 million and paid for by the economic sales tax. In addition to the land, the city provided a $1.5 million road and property tax exemption for 10 years. In 2008, Targetâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s property tax exemption was extended to 2017 as part of a new agreement after

2007

employment at the facility dropped below 650. The Target Distribution Center is still hiring today. The Central Crossing Commerce Park has since become home to two other employers, Home Depot Rapid Deployment Center and Allen Foods. Home Depot, which built its $28 million distribution facility in 2010, now employs more than 200 people. Allen Foods built its 135,000-square-foot production facility shortly

2008

after in 2011. Allen Foods manufactures bakery products like Oroweat breads and Thomas bagels and brought 52 new jobs to Topeka. Security Benefit Group of Companies, Inc. created subsidiary se2, Inc., a third party administrator providing technology service to the life and annuity insurance industries, in 2005. se2 has grown to more than 600 employees and plans to hire 200 more.

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2009

Hy-Vee Grocery Store opened. Payless Distribution Center closes. Winter 2009

Greg Fox renovated a historic rowhouse and opened RowHouse Restaurant at 515 SW Van Buren Street.

2006

YEARS

TK Magazine was founded by Kevin Doel and Jason Hull.

Alorica Inc., a customer service call company, made its debut.

IN REVIEW

TOPEKA BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS 2006-2016

FALL 2016

Target's property tax exemption was extended to 2017.

Kaw Area Technical School became affiliated with Washburn Unversity and became Washburn Tech. Heartland Visioning was formed.

Frito-Lay expanded its plant to include the production of SunChips, adding 75 new jobs.

TK Business Magazine

TK Magazine

E2 Communications acquired TK Business Magazine. The 800,000-squarefoot Payless Distribution Center was purchased by homegrown Topekabased business PTMW, Inc. Martin Tractor Co., a family-owned business operating in Topeka since 1928, was sold to Foley Equipment Co. based in Wichita. Hillmer's Luggage, Leather & Gifts closes, one of the oldest retail stores in downtown Topeka.

NOTO began talks about revitalization.

2010 The Guggenheim Partners-led investor group invested $400 million to acquire Topeka-based Security Benefit.

FALL 2016

TK Business Magazine

In May 2016, JEDO approved the incentive grant for up to $1,000,000, not to exceed $200,000 per year to provide training and development for existing se2 employees and up to 200 new employees. Another successful growth story for Topeka is Advisors Excel. Coowners David Callanan, Cody Foster, and Derek Thompson formed Advisors Excel, an Insurance Marketing Organization, in 2005. Since then it has grown by leaps and bounds, expanding from

TK Magazine

Winter 2010

First year of the Top 20 Under 40 Awards by the Jayhawk Area Council Boy Scouts. Kansas Super Chief Credit Union changed its name to Envista Credit Union. Credit Union 1 of Kansas and Credit Unions United consolidated to become Quest Credit Union. HOLA Cards, a division of Nos Vemos Greetings of Topeka partnered with Snapfish to sell greeting cards, photo cards and notebooks on Snapfish.com.

FALL 2016

five employees to 320 and growing revenue from $45 million to almost $4 billion. In 2013, the company moved to the old Marlings Home Furnishings Building at 2950 SW McClure Road to accommodate its record growth. In June of 2016, Alorica acquired Expert Global Solutions and has been hiring all summer to meet client demand. They expect to grow to approximately 600 employees this year. While Frito-Lay has been in Topeka for more than 40 years, in 2007 the company took advantage

The Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce/ GO Topeka and MAMTC, along with partners Washburn University, the National Growth Through Innovation Foundation and Eureka! Ranch were awarded $500,000 from the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s Manufacturing Extension Partnership Program (NIST-MEP) as part of a $1.1 million project to promote innovation and competitiveness in Topeka and Shawnee County.

Capitol Federal Financial converted from a mutual holding company to a stock form of organization.

Home Depot built its $28 million distribution facility.

of available half-cent sales tax dollars and expanded its plant to include the production of SunChips, adding 75 new jobs. At that time Allen Moore, director of engineering, said that the Topeka facility was the fastest-growing in the company since 2004. Kaw Area Technical School became affiliated with Washburn University in 2008 and became Washburn Institute of Technology. Since Dean Clark Coco came on board in 2012, Washburn Tech has seen a 44 percent increase in the school’s enrollment.

Westar Energy opened the William E. Brown Professional Development Center in North Topeka. The training center has classrooms and equipment to train field employees, power plan personnel and other skilled craft positions.

2011 Owners of Ed Bozarth Chevrolet purchased Bill Kobach Buick GMC and moved inventory to the Ed Bozarth Chevrolet dealership in Topeka.

Newcomer Funeral Service Group purchased Mount Hope Cemetery.

TK Business Magazine

According to Foresight 2020 Progress Report January 2016, Washburn Tech’s graduation rate tops the chart among Kansas post-secondary institutions and has a placement rate of 94 percent. 2009 brought the closing of a long time employer, Payless Distribution Center, which had been in Topeka since 1956. The closing of Payless Distribution Center eliminated around 500 jobs. That same year, Topeka also said goodbye to a 100-year-old downtown Topeka business. Hillmer's

Westar Energy opened Topeka’s first electric vehicle charging station at the corner of 8th & Kansas.

2012 MARS Chocolate North America broke ground on its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Topeka—the first new chocolate site built in the U.S. in 35 years. The facility was a $270 million investment and brought 200 jobs to the area.

Waste Management expanded to create the Materials Recovery Facility. The $8 million, 30,000-squarefoot facility takes all recyclable items and separates them for further distribution to end-use manufacturers.

Capitol Federal headquarters underwent an $18 million makeover. Service Master took over ownership of Schendel Pest Services. The shopping center at SW 17th & Wanamaker, home of Kohl’s and Barnes & Noble was sold for $11.75 million.

Josten's moved its production work from Topeka to Clarksville, Tennessee.

Luggage, Leather & Gifts, opened in 1896 and was one of the oldest retail stores in downtown Topeka. Heartland Visioning was created in 2008 to collaboratively work with organizations, businesses, government and individuals on improving economic development and overall quality of life. In 2009, Heartland Visioning began the conversation about revitalizing Topeka's downtown business district. Downtown renovations began in 2014, with street and infrastructure improvements funded by

2013

Strathman Sales Co. expanded into its new 59,000-square-foot facility at 4235 SW Burlingame to provide more space to add additional products such as craft beers.

the city. A $3.4 million investment by private donors funded pocket parks and visual improvements above the street. NOTO also began talks about revitalization in 2009. Barbara Waterman-Peters was the first core artist to establish her studio space at 831 N. Kansas in 2010, and now the area is home to 36 new businesses, more than 30 artists and around 2,000 people that attend the First Friday Art Walk Events. In 2012, Josten’s moved its production work from Topeka to Clarksville, Tennessee. The Topeka plant

The Midwest Training Center for Climate and Energy Control Technologies (MTC) located on Washburn Tech’s campus opened its classroom doors looking to address the gap between education and industry workforce needs by incorporating advanced training and updating equipment to reflect the technological innovation in the HVAC industry.

Master of Accountancy

ISG Technology opened a new 12,000-squarefoot facility that houses both a 10,000-squarefoot data center and ISG’s local Topeka operations.

Washburn University School of Business began offering a Master in Accountancy (MAcc) degree. Bryan University in Topeka completed construction of new 6,500-square-foot HVAC training facility.

A fire started by faulty wiring in the ceiling destroyed the production area and the entire west half of WestSide Stamp & Awards (reopened in 2014).

Advisors Excel renovated and moved to the old Marlings Home Furnishing Buildings. Hallmark closed its Topeka plant and moved production to its Lawrence location.

Topeka Regional Airport partnered with United Airlines to offer flights to Chicago.

had been located in Topeka since 1969 and, at one point, had employed more than 1,100 people. When Jostens left, it kept 87 jobs in Topeka for marketing, customer service and technical support, but 372 jobs were eliminated with its move. Another big loss for Topeka was Hallmark Cards, Inc. In 2013 Hallmark had three Kansas facilities and employed around 1,300 - 500 in Topeka, 500 in Lawrence and 300 in Leavenworth. Hallmark closed its plant in Topeka and moved

production to its Lawrence location. In December 2015, Moore D. M. Group purchased Southwest Publishing & Mailing. Then in June 2016, the Moore D. M. Group purchased the Hallmark building to expand its envelope operation and fulfillment services, adding 80 to 100 employees this year. MARS Chocolate North America officially opened in Topeka in 2014, employing more than 200 people at its 500,000-squarefoot facility located off of SW Montara Parkway

}

2014 Compressed natural gas fueling station opened at 5626 SW Wenger Street, a result of a partnership between Questar Fueling, Topeka, Clean Cities and Frito Lay.

Failure of an electrical branch circuit in the ceiling ignited when the baker at Pizagels turned on the exhaust system, closing the restaurant for over a year.

Kansas Bureau of Investigation and Washburn University broke ground on a $55 million forensic lab on the college’s campus. Westar Energy and Topeka Public Schools partner to create the Topeka Public Schools’ Kansas Education and Science Park that supports STEM curriculum.

Washburn University School of Business announced new concentrations for their Bachelor of Business Administration program: International Business and Entrepreneurship & Innovation.

FALL 2016

Crosswinds Commons, located at SW Wanamaker and 11th, was developed by David Christie of Christie Development Associates in Overland Park. The City Council voted to make the area a community improvement district that would reimburse the $22.6 million investment through a one percent tax imposed on sales for businesses in the Crosswinds Commons development. Crosswinds Commons created over 250 jobs and includes: Academy Sports + Outdoors, Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Store, Orscheln Farm and Home, Five Guys Burgers and Fries, McAlister’s Deli, Pie Five Pizza Co. and Sleep Number.

TK Business Magazine

and Topeka Boulevard. According to Bret Spangler, Mars Chocolate North America Site Director, the Topeka plant was the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first new plant in 35 years and was built with expansion in mind. In 2015, Mars announced a $100 million expansion that would create 70 new jobs. In January 2013, Topeka teamed up with United Airlines and began offering two flights daily to Chicago Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Hare International Airport from Topeka Regional Airport located at Forbes

Make-It Lab, a makerspace room in the Topeka Shawnee County Public Library opened.

United Airlines stopped services through Topeka Regional Airport.

Soave Automotive Group acquired Sunflower Motors in Topeka, A BMW and Volkswagen dealership. (MAYBE $20 million)

2015

AmeriPride Services selected the Topeka branch to participate in an alternative fuel pilot program. The Topeka AmeriPride facility purchased five ROUSH CleanTech Ford F-59 delivery trucks that run solely on propane autogas and installed a private propane autogas station to service the vehicles.

Field. The flights held 50 people and cost the same as a ticket from the Kansas City International Airport. Unfortunately, the flights were well below capacity for United Airlines, and they stopped services in September 2014. The Southwest side of town has seen plenty of development over the past 10 years as well. In 2012, the Helping Hands Humane Shelter moved its business from North Topeka, where it had been since the 1950s, to an old Dillons Grocery Store building on 21st

FALL 2016

Street. HHHS raised $7.2 million from individuals and businesses allowing it to move into the new site debt free. Hy-Vee Grocery Store opened its doors at 29th and Wanamaker in 2008. The construction of Crosswinds Commons shopping area in 2014 added 250 new jobs and included: Academy Sports+Outdoors, Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Store, Orscheln Farm and Home, Pie Five Pizza Co., Five Guys Burgers and Fries, McAlister's Deli and Sleep Number.

Topeka businesses have seen their share of highs and lows over the past 10 years. With revitalization efforts, increased opportunities for growth, and an invigorated business community, Topeka is sure to see many more victories and successes in the future. TK

Alorica acquired Expert Global Solutions and expects to grow to approximately 600 employees this year.

712 Innovation, a 5,000-square-foot facility that combines a makerspace and coworking space opened in Downtown Topeka.

The owners of Top City Soda Pop and HHB BBQ watched helplessly as the building that housed both businesses at 720 S. Kansas Avenue disintegrated to ash. HHB BBQ moved down to 906 S. Kansas Avenue and Top City Soda Pop found a home at Forbes Field.

Topeka Metro Bikes available to the community.

Mars announced that it would invest an additional $100 million to add a 90,000-square-foot facility to the Topeka site. The expansion creates more than 70 additional jobs.

TK Business Magazine

Simon Property Group sold West Ridge Mall and West Ridge Plaza and Out Lots to WP Glimcher Inc. Blind Tiger expansion added a cold room and 12 more steel tanks in an adjacent building, increasing their brewing capacity by 40%.

2016

Educational Credit Union and Quest Credit Union merged to become Azura Credit Union.

Robuck Jewelers, a North Topeka staple, closed after being in business since 1997.

Moore D. M. Group purchased the Hallmark building. The expansion comes just six months after purchasing Southwest Publishing & Mailing.

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FALL 2016

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NOT EVEN 40 YEARS OLD YET, Cody Foster has made an indelible footprint on both the business world and the local community.

By LISA LOEWEN Photos by RACHEL LOCK PHOTOGRAPHY

Walk into Cody Foster’s office at Advisor’s Excel and you begin to understand the scope of his business interests. Framed newspaper clippings outlining the unprecedented growth experienced by AE hang on the wall—right next to the reviews and grand opening announcements of several restaurants and bars. Renderings of the Cyrus Hotel, a multimilliondollar project about to unfold downtown, are scattered on a nearby table.

INVESTING IN OTHERS 36

Photo by RACHEL LOCK PHOTOGRAPHY

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TK Business Magazine

CODY'S INVESTING STRATEGY “Yes, I hope to make money off of these investments, but I also want to help people grow and get better in their capacity, improve their position, and help them thrive.”

Photo by RACHEL LOCK PHOTOGRAPHY

ROWING UP in the small town of Stockton, Kansas, Foster said he really couldn’t afford college. However, thanks to the Hindman Scholarship granted to high school graduates from Rooks County who wanted to attend Washburn University, he received a mass media degree in 1999. A combination of the close friends he had made during school, a good job opportunity and a budding relationship with Jen, who would later become his wife, Foster chose to make his home in Topeka. “I didn’t see a reason to leave when Topeka really had everything I was looking for,” Foster said.

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TK Business Magazine

INVESTING IN QUALITY SERVICE After a few years working in the financial services industry, Foster and a co-worker left to become financial advisors. Foster said it was much more difficult to grow their business than they anticipated because of the lack of support they could find in the industry. Seeing the potential of creating a high quality, customer support-oriented field marketing organization, Foster, along with co-founders David Callanan and Derek Thompson, created Advisors Excel in 2004. The rising success of AE over the years is no secret. Founded on the principles of taking care of employees, taking care of clients, and making sure the business was making money, AE has been touted as one of the fastest growing companies in the history of Topeka— expanding from three employees in 2004 to more than 320 today, with sales exceeding $5 billion. As if keeping AE on its upward trajectory wasn’t enough to keep him busy, Foster began investing in areas outside of the company. “The idea of investing in the stock market and sitting there watching it was boring to me,” Foster said. “Investing in businesses can have so many ancillary benefits to them.” INVESTING IN IDEAS The first real investment outside of AE was in his brother’s business, Builder Bees, where Foster provided some startup capital and helped with the business plan and marketing. That experience only served to whet his appetite for more business ventures. His next investment was in Melin, a hat company that specializes in highend, luxury ball caps. He had a friend who knew the owners were looking for investors, so he met with them. While some of his investments have been about the business, Foster admits this one was all about the product. “The owners were so passionate about their products,” Foster said. “They saw an entertainment event where Jay Z was all decked out in luxury brands, but was wearing a simple ball cap. They had this vision for a luxury brand of hats that celebrities like Jay Z would wear.”

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FALL 2016

TK Business Magazine

FAVORITE INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY “Hands down, the Cyrus Hotel is the most fun for me. It is amazing that I have a chance to literally change the face of downtown with this hotel.”

INVESTING IN THE FUTURE From that point forward, the majority of Foster’s investments have been in real estate, restaurants and businesses that can have a positive impact on Topeka. This includes Back Napkin Restaurant Group, which owns both The Rockhill Grille and RND Corner Grill; Liberty Group, which restores and revitalizes historic buildings; and the Cyrus Hotel, which will change the landscape of downtown Topeka. He has also recently purchased a ranch outside of Maple Hill that is being renovated into a dude ranch/retreat called Prairie Fire Ranch. They have built 12 cabins and have renovated the guesthouse and dining area. Foster sees it as being a venue for corporate retreats, weddings and family outings, and hopes to have it operational by the end of the year. It takes a talented team of individuals, experts in their fields, to guide these business ventures toward successful outcomes, Foster said. Each business venture would be a full-time job for him if he didn’t have talented people at the helm.

FALL 2016

Photo by RACHEL LOCK PHOTOGRAPHY

This investment triggered his more robust ventures. Foster created AIM Strategies, LLC, an investment company that manages all of his investments. His investment strategy is to find businesses with people who have the drive to succeed and partner with them to help them flourish and grow. “Yes, I hope to make money off of these investments,” Foster said. “But I also want to help people grow and get better in their capacity, improve their position, and help them thrive.”

“I can’t commit the time it requires to make these ventures successful because my commitment is to AE,” Foster said. “It is critical that I have really great people working on these projects with me so they can handle the day to day details.” Even though he enjoys working with each investment opportunity, Foster admits he has does have a favorite. “Hands down, the Cyrus Hotel is the most fun for me,” Foster said. “It is amazing that I have a chance to literally change the face of downtown with this hotel.” INVESTING IN COMMUNITY Foster’s philosophy of helping people grow and improve goes beyond business and into the community as a whole. While his investments stretch into Lawrence and Kansas City, Topeka is where his heart is. That is why he has chosen to make such a significant

TK Business Magazine

investment in downtown. He firmly believes that Topeka is the best place to live and raise a family, and he wants to be part of its growth. “We are on the cusp of something great here,” Foster said. “People are moving here from all over the country because they recognize all of the potential Topeka has to offer.” Foster also believes that the heart of a community is its businesses, and that they have a key role to play in growth and quality of life. By investing time, money, ideas and enthusiasm, local companies create a stronger, more vibrant community. “As a business owner here, the better Topeka gets as a whole, the better business is for me and everyone else,” Foster said. On a more personal level, Foster admits he has some selfish reasons for investing in Topeka. “I want my kids to want to stay here and build their lives here,” Foster said. TK

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THE NEW SMOKE BREAK By JAMIE SLACK

Social media and cell phones have been fully integrated into our lives for nearly a decade. We use these tools daily to network, close deals and communicate with othersâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;but is this integration of technology jeopardizing focus and productivity in the workplace?

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FALL 2016

TK Business Magazine

OR MANY OF US, the line has been blurred with regard to work/ life balance. We talk to clients on the phone during family dinner and check emails on vacation, so it is natural to do personal business while at work, as well. Companies are increasingly looking into cell phone policies that allow employees to have a connection to family and friends, while still providing the employer with the confidence that quality time is being dedicated to the job. Kristina Dietrick of Creative Business Solutions says boundaries at work should be apparent to the employee and consistently enforced. A well-planned cell phone and social media policy should be a part of a company’s basic introduction to all employees or prospective employees. “You’ve got to have policies that you share with your staff,” Dietrick said. “It has to be a lawful policy with lawful language without taking away the rights of employees.” A recent TK Business Magazine survey of 100 employers and 198 employees revealed differing views about social media and cell phone use in the workplace. Eighty-four percent of employee respondents said their personal cell phone use at work either has no impact or has a positive impact on productivity. However, 57 percent of employer responses said that personal cell phone use at work has a negative impact on production. Similarly, 80

FALL 2016

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percent of the employee respondents felt that social media use has either no impact or has a positive impact on productivity, while 76.5 percent of employers said social media use negatively impacts production at work. “Employees checking messages or texts takes time from usual duties and are distracted,” commented one employer respondent. “However, banning the use of cell phones just leads to employees sneaking time away.” Dietrick said personal calls at work used to only be allowed in emergency situations. “I remember a world without cell phones, and I know that 99 percent of what is happening in the world is not an emergency,” Dietrick said. However, in today’s world of social media, many employees actively use social media as a work tool. Alissa Menke, with jones huyett Partners, said a social media policy should still be in place for employees that use social media as a part of their job. “Our position at jhP is to encourage the use of social media, but rules still need to be in place,” Menke said. “If you don’t agree to abide by and follow our online code of conduct, then you can’t do anything in terms of jhP content. In the digital world, no one will know that you work here.” And, just because employees sign a code of conduct agreement, it doesn’t mean they can be on social media all day long. “If you’re posting too many times during the day, we see it, our clients see it, and if it’s not okay, we’ll have a conversation,” Menke said.

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FALL 2016

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INTERNET ADDICTION Internet addiction may be another real possibility that many employees face. According to the Pew 2015 Smartphone Use Report, 46 percent of adults say they cannot be without their smartphone. Just like any other addiction, social media can negatively affect a person’s life both at work and at home. “Addiction is any behavior that causes negative consequences in your life and you continue to engage in it, despite the negative consequences,” said Dana Vernon, Prevention and Recovery Services Addictions Counselor, LMAC. According to a 2012 Forbes article titled, The New Mental Health Disorder Internet Addiction, “research has shown that people with Internet addiction have demonstrable changes in their brains—both in the connections between cells and in the brain areas that control attention, executive control, and emotion processing. Most intriguing is the fact that some of these changes are what you see happening in the brains of people addicted to cocaine, heroine, special K, and other substances.” In addition, people who are hooked on the Internet have changes in how the brain’s dopamine system operates. The dings of cell phone texts and social media notifications often bring accompanying “feel-good” effects. These feel-good effects create the addiction and reinforce the need to connect.

FALL 2016

TK Business Magazine

This issue has become common as texts, notifications, updates, tweets and such are a part of our daily life and expectations. Individuals experience a basic fear of missing out on what is happening in the world, and the employer may be on the losing end of the battle for employees’ time and attention. ATTENTION DISRUPTION Each ding or notification, no matter how small, feeds the addiction and brings a distraction that diverts attention. Attention that, according to a survey by Fast Company Magazine, takes an average of 23 minutes and 15 seconds to get back on task. That can add up to a big chunk of time away from the employee’s duties. Salary.com reports that 89 percent of respondents in a 2014 survey admitted that they wasted time at work every day. Another survey by CareerBuilder found that personal use of technology is the biggest reason for wasting time. Twentyfour percent of workers admitted they spend at least an hour a day on personal email, texts and personal calls. However, completely banning cell phone and social media use at work might be a little unreasonable. Instead, employers should create a policy that minimizes interruptions and encourages productivity. “What is appropriate and what is not appropriate is where you start,” Dietrick said. “Managing employees is similar to being a parent. Give them boundaries. Let them know the rules ahead of time, and refer back to the rule or the policy when an incident happens.”

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TK Business Magazine

SURVEY RESULTS

The following information provides highlights from TK Business Magazine's Cell Phone and Social Media in the Workplace Survey. Survey was conducted online with 298 particpants in August 2016.

EMPLOYEES

EMPLOYERS

DO YOU FEEL YOUR PERSONAL CELL PHONE USE IMPACTS YOUR PRODUCTIVITY AT WORK?

Strong POSITIVE

9.24%

POSITIVE NEGATIVE

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60%

DO YOU FEEL PERSONAL SOCIAL MEDIA USAGE BY EMPLOYEES AT WORK IMPACTS THE PRODUCTIVITY OF THEIR WORK? Strong POSITIVE

3.80% 17.93% 58.15%

NO Impact Strong NEGATIVE

45.56% 11.11%

Strong NEGATIVE

DO YOU FEEL YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA USE IMPACTS YOUR PRODUCTIVITY AT WORK?

NEGATIVE

14.44%

NEGATIVE

11.96% 4.35%

POSITIVE

23.33%

NO Impact

55.98%

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60%

Strong POSITIVE

5.56%

POSITIVE

18.48%

NO Impact Strong NEGATIVE

DO YOU FEEL PERSONAL CELL PHONE USAGE BY EMPLOYEES AT WORK IMPACTS THE PRODUCTIVITY OF THEIR WORK?

2.35%

POSITIVE

10.59%

NO Impact

10.59%

NEGATIVE

16.30% 3.80%

47.06% 12.94%

Strong NEGATIVE

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60%

THE PERCEPTION OF SOCIAL MEDIA USAGE HAVING A "POSITIVE OR NO IMPACT" ON WORK PRODUCTIVITY, DEPENDS ON WHETHER YOU'RE AN EMPLOYEE

80 48

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TK Business Magazine

AN EMPLOYER.

Full data results from the survey are available online at tkmagazine.com.

YES

I DON'T KNOW

% 40 46 14% %

AT WORK, WHAT ELECTRONIC DEVICE DO YOU USE TO CHECK SOCIAL MEDIA?

CELL PHONE POLICY?

60% 30% 2% 8%

DOES YOUR COMPANY HAVE A SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY?

49% 35% 16% YES I DON'T KNOW NO

OF EMPLOYEES REPORTED THAT THEY CHECK SOCIAL MEDIA ON THEIR CELL PHONE AT WORK.

"It is never productive and the mindless scrolling is irritating / wastes people's time." â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Employee Comment

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(NOT ALLOWED)

OF EMPLOYEES HAVE FRUSTRATION WITH CO-WORKERS' PERSONAL USE OF SOCIAL MEDIA AT WORK.

TK Business Magazine

By LISA LOEWEN Photos by RACHEL LOCK PHOTOGRAPHY

IT’S ALL IN THE NAME KEYNUNDRUM

DANDELIONS

“It is so much fun to see people go through the rooms. Some make it out, others don’t, but they all have fun.” —Dawn Neuhalfen, Co-owner

"Here, the kids can pour paint, sprinkle glitter, spread glue—and we clean up the mess.” —Brenda Ruhnke, Owner

PG.

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TK Business Magazine

PG.

For those of you looking for something a little different to do in Topeka, three new businesses are ready to entertain you. Whether you want to unleash your artistic side; jump, climb or dodge laser beams; or challenge your brain to unlock a mystery, you can find it all, right here in Topeka. You might just need to figure out the business behind the name.

TRAMPOLASERROCKBALL PARK “Families were going all the way to Kansas City to find something similar. It didn't make sense not to have something local." — Tanya Hines, Owner PG.

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FALL 2016

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KEYNUNDRUM Husband and wife owners, Dawn and Aaron Neuhalfen showcase their "Murder Motel" escape room.

F YOU’VE BEEN to New York or Chicago, you might have heard people talking about “escaping the room.” This new game, which challenges groups of individuals to unlock codes, solve puzzles, decipher clues and work together to unravel mysteries, has been taking the country by storm. What you may not know is that you can “escape the room” right here in Topeka. Dawn and Aaron Neuhalfen opened the doors to Keynundrum, located at 2900 SW Atwood, after attempting to escape a room in Hutchinson with their son and a friend last year. They were so enthused by the experience that they decided to open a similar concept in Topeka. “It is so much fun to see people go through the rooms,” Dawn said. “Some make it out, others don’t, but they all have fun.” The concept is fairly simple. Teams have 60 minutes to solve puzzles, unravel clues and figure out the mystery that unlocks the room. That is where simple ends, however. Clues can be

FALL 2016

anything from words written on scraps of paper in the trashcan to tape recorded messages or missing puzzle pieces that uncover a secret meaning. Unlocking one clue simply leads you into the next puzzle, which will send you in a completely different direction. Just when you think you have it all figured out, everything shifts. Don’t worry. If you get stuck, you can ask for a hint from the person monitoring

TK Business Magazine

your progress from outside the room. “The key is to quit overthinking everything,” Aaron said. “Sometimes the smartest person in the room has the hardest time.” Keynundrum offers three different escape experiences: Murder Motel and Jewel Thief, for groups of up to eight people; and General Tao’s Back Room, which can accommodate groups as large as 16 people.

Dawn said her inspiration for the stories and clues in each room come from her family and love of books. The storyline behind their latest room, General Tao’s Back Room, which opened in July, came from Dawn’s father. “This truly is a family business,” Dawn said. “The kids are always making suggestions and the family get togethers always have ‘what if…’ sessions.”

Even though the business is really starting to take off, Dawn and Aaron do not plan to quit their “real” jobs—though, they do hope to retire someday so they can plan more escape rooms. In the meantime, Dawn’s son, Greg, works with them to keep things running when they aren’t available. Even though they both admit they are sometimes too busy to even stop and take a breath, Dawn and Aaron say they wouldn’t change a thing. “Through this whole experience we have never looked at each other and asked, ‘why are we doing this?’” Aaron said. “We are having too much fun.” WHAT’S WITH THE NAME? “Our granddaughter came up with the name when we were brainstorming ideas,” Aaron said. “It was the perfect fit.”

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TK Business Magazine

DANDELIONS

Owner Brenda Ruhnke poses with store mascot, Captain Dan, who resides at Dandelions.

ALK THROUGH THE DOOR at Dandelions and you enter a young crafter’s paradise. Glitter, beads, jewels, feathers, ribbons and numerous other embellishments fill the bright yellow bins behind the rainbow counter. Small tables, pre-set with blue paper mats, cups of crayons, paintbrushes and markers fill the room. Paint smocks hang on the cheery walls, along with samples of various craft projects. Around the corner of the desk, an array of crafty possibilities awaits. Picture frames, paper-maché letters, bird houses, felt pillow monsters, and many other items ranging in price from $2.99 to $24.99, sit waiting to be chosen by budding artists. Nestled in the patio area of the Brookwood Shopping Center between Dillon’s and Boss Hawg’s, Dandelions opened its doors in July. Owner Brenda Ruhnke said her vision was to

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TK Business Magazine

create a place where kids could make awesome art projects and parents wouldn’t have to worry about the mess. “Kids love to create things,” Brenda said. “But it is hard for parents to have all those art supplies on hand. And, they don’t want to deal with the cleanup at home. Here, the kids can pour paint, sprinkle glitter, spread glue—and we clean up the mess.” Brenda knows a little bit about cleaning up after kids. As a stay-at-home mother who ran a day care for 27 years, she had plenty of practice. Five years ago, after the last of her day-care kids hit school age, she took a full-time job in the corporate world. However, she missed working with kids. So much so, that after a trip to Kansas City with her granddaughter, where they visited a similar craft store, she began forming plans to open her own place in Topeka. Thanks to some guidance from the Washburn Small Business Development Center and help from friends and family, Brenda cashed in her 401K and made that dream a reality. “I can’t think of anything I would rather do,” Brenda said. “When I am working with a child, helping put glitter on or pour paint, it is pure joy for me.”

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That joy can be seen sparkling in her eyes as she talks about future plans for Dandelions—or maybe that’s the glitter flower tattoo on her cheek. Brenda hopes to bring in some pre-school classes and set up arrangements with local teachers so kids can come in and make their school projects in her store. She has planned store hours around local school calendars so that when kids are out of school for holidays or in-service days, they can have a place to spend a few hours doing something fun. And because no one is ever too old for crafts, she is planning a ladies night each week to give artsy adults a chance to get in on the fun. While parents are not allowed to just drop their kids off at Dandelions, they don’t have to actively participate in the craft projects if they don’t want too. However, according to a brightly colored sign hanging on the wall, “Children left unattended will be sent home with an open bottle of glitter.” WHAT’S WITH THE NAME? Brenda said it has special meaning to her. “Dandelions. Adults see them as weeds. Children see them as wishes.”

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Sept. 10 Sept. 16 Sept. 24 Oct. 8 Oct. 15 Oct. 22-23

Topeka365.com 785-234-1030

FALL 2016

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TRAMPOLASERROCKBALL PARK

Owner Tanya Hines engages in a little fun and food at her Trampolaserrockball Park.

FALL 2016

RIVE DOWN 21ST STREET and you can’t help but notice the big purple sign next to the sprawling warehouselooking building. Walk in the front door and your senses will be stimulated with neon colors, upbeat music, peals of laughter and tantalizing smells. Like its name suggests, Trampolaserrockball Park offers trampolines, a 5,000-square-foot laser tag arena, four 22foot rock walls, a zip line, an arcade, a soft

TK Business Magazine

play area for younger patrons, and private party rooms. Users load money onto play cards that allow them to access various areas of the park for specific periods of time. Owner Tanya Hines, who hails from Miami, said she opened the park in June 2015 because she saw a need for this type of facility in Topeka. “Families were going all the way to Kansas City to find something similar,” Tanya said. “It didn’t make sense not to have something local.” Tanya said she had been looking for a good investment opportunity, and research into viable markets found Topeka to be an ideal location. That, combined with the positive strides Topeka has taken in the past few years to promote growth and business, convinced her to move here and give her business idea a shot. “Topeka seemed to be on the brink of life and death,” Tanya said. “But I saw more life than death.” While Tanya actually moved to Topeka in 2010, it took her a few years to convince those around her that this venture could be successful. Having spent her adult life working with other people on business ideas, this was the first time Tanya actually took on a project of her own. “This was my first monster like this,” she said. “But I hope to have many more.” Tanya admits that she has had to overcome numerous obstacles to see this vision through. From financing, to hiring and administrative issues, to dealing with an ever-changing demand for new activities, Tanya has taken it all in stride. In spite of a few skeptics, she has even opened a restaurant, The Palette, adjacent to the park. The

Families with kids of all ages will find lots of interactive activities at Trampolaserrockball Park.

full-service menu includes everything from burgers, pizza and pasta, to chicken gumbo and shrimp and grits. While Trampolaserrockball Park isn’t in the black yet, it is doing better than she hoped. Tanya said she keeps finding new ways to add more entertainment options to the facility. For example, she plans to add a Ninja Warrior course later this year. While the road to success hasn’t always been easy, Tanya believes the risk will be worth it in the end. “In order to have everything, you need to be willing to have nothing,” Tanya said. WHAT’S WITH THE NAME? “It was a 2 a.m. thought. I felt like it would tell people what I had in here and no one else had a name like it,” Tanya said.

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TK Business Magazine

NetWork Kansas

e-Community Finding financing for an entrepreneurial venture can be difficult, but if local advocates have anything to say about it, doors will open for small businesses in and around Topeka and Shawnee County. By KAREN RIDDER Dennis Strobel knows finding funding for small business can be hard. He’s been there. As founder of CD Tradepost and multiple other entrepreneurial ventures, he knows financing makes or breaks a business. That’s one reason he and several other local business leaders and entrepreneurs have come together in hopes of making a tax credit-based financing plan for small business available in Topeka and Shawnee County. While several initiatives are designed to help small business owners in Topeka, Strobel knows a creative financing option might make the difference between sink or swim for an entrepreneur. “I have been an entrepreneur several times,” Strobel said. “I have been in the situation where financing was difficult to obtain. I’ve been in their shoes before and I know how it is.” Strobel is one member of a leadership team partnering with the Shawnee County branch of the K-State Research & Extension office in hopes of bringing the NetWork Kansas Entrepreneurship (e) Communities program to Topeka and Shawnee County. A NetWork Kansas e-Community is a partnership that allows a town, a cluster of towns, or an entire county to raise seed money for local entrepreneurs through donations from individuals or businesses within the community. Donors receive a 75 percent state (Kansas) income tax credit for their donation. A tax credit is a dollar-for-dollar credit against income tax liability. This means that for every

FALL 2016

TK Business Magazine

Donors receive

75%

state income tax credit

Every

$1,000 $750 donated garners a

state income tax credit

Minimum donation per year

$250

Maximum donation per year

$66,667

$1,000 donated, donors will receive a $750 state income tax credit. Donors may also be eligible for a federal deduction if they are able to itemize on their tax return. The minimum donation amount per year is $250 and the maximum donation is $66,667. The tax credit program has been available in Kansas since 2007, but benefits from them were originally offered only to businesses in rural areas with populations less than 50,000. The program has been expanded to include parts of larger urban areas that are economically distressed, with 55 communities benefitting from funding through the program in 2016. Cindy Evans, K-State Research and Extension director for Shawnee County, says that not only will business owners in smaller Shawnee County communities, such as Rossville and Silver Lake, be able to take advantage of the program, but that it will also be able to cover businesses in economically disadvantaged areas of Topeka. To be eligible, businesses must be in incorporated areas of the county. Evans hopes they can include everyone at some point in the future. “We’re concerned about not being able to include Tecumseh, Berryton and Dover in this effort,” Evans said. “We want to try to help people who are ready to take the next step to be an entrepreneur and don’t want people to feel excluded. We will just have to keep looking for opportunities to serve them.” Strobel joined the team because he believes Topeka and Shawnee County need more resources to help small business owners,

Although Topeka exceeds the 50,000 population limit, some of its urban area still meets funding opportunities. This map highlights areas identified as eligible [yellow] and "severely distressed" economically [red] that qualify. and needs greater communication and coordination between those responsible for the resources that are available. He believes compared to Kansas City and Wichita, Topeka lags behind in supporting small business and placing weight on the importance of small business growth. “Those markets are more developed because they have been working on it longer,” Strobel said. “Part of my personal endeavors is to try to help Topeka and Shawnee County catch-up. If any gains that can be achieved to help Topeka and Shawnee county catch up or surpass some of those other regions then why not?” Glacial Hills Resource Conservation and Development, led by Executive Director Gary Satter, will be the lead financial administrator for the e-Community. Anyone with questions regarding the Shawnee County e-Community can call Gary at 785.608.8801 or Cindy Evans at 785.232.0062 ext 110. TK

Leadership Team Nancy Daniels, K-State Research & Extension Cindy Evans, K-State Research & Extension Ryan Geist, Silver Lake Bank Karl Klein, Washburn Small Business Development Center Rick LeJuerrne, Washburn School of Business Carol Marple Murray Moore, Youth Entrepreneurs & Topeka High School

Gary Satter, Glacial Hills Resource Conservation & Development Greg Schmidtlein, Cummins & Coffman CPA Jim Showalter, CBIZ MHM, LLC Mike Steinert, Glacier’s Edge Winery Dennis Strobel, Catapult Equity, LLC Forrest Thurber, SCORE

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TK Business Magazine

Jeff Herman, owner of Herman's Meat & Smokehouse, at his newly built location offering a deli counter and restaurant.

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TK Business Magazine

THE HEART OF THE ENTREPRENEUR

Jeff Herman

Herman's Meat & Smokehouse Jeff Herman didn't have to look any further than his family to understand what is the most rewarding part of the restaurant business. By ADAM VLACH

Photos by MEGAN ROGERS PHOTOGRAPHIE

Photo by MEGAN ROGERS PHOTOGRAPHIE

PON ENTERING Herman’s Meat & Smokehouse, one is immediately greeted by a friendly cashier at the checkout counter right by the door. An aroma of barbecue fills the air while, on the far side of the room, the chatter of customers in the dining area creates a lively atmosphere. Two teenagers stand behind a counter, taking orders for barbecue and take-out. Straight ahead is the deli counter with a glass display case, showing off a large selection of deli products and other meats and cheeses that customers can buy and take home. Behind the deli counter, three men in aprons are working side-by-side, cutting and preparing meat to be showcased and sold. However, one of the three men behind the counter isn’t an employee—it’s Jeff Herman, the third-generation owner of the company. Herman’s Meat was founded in the 1950s by Jeff Herman’s grandfather and uncle. After his father became a part of the self-described “Ma and Pop” business, Herman began working for the family venture at the age of 13. “I’ve been here my whole life,” Herman said. After his father passed away, Herman took over as head of the business in 2000. “We have a pretty good base of customers that come in regularly,” Herman said. “Over the years, I’ve kind of grown up with their families. When I was a little kid, the people were buying meat for their family. Now their children are coming in because they’re getting to the age where they’re starting to buy food. You get to know people, and that’s the most rewarding part.”

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TK Business Magazine

Moving to the new location allowed Herman's to add an in-store barbecue restaurant service. Photo by MEGAN ROGERS PHOTOGRAPHIE

But being the owner also presents unique challenges. “Having to control everything in the business is the hard part,” Herman said. “Back when my father was still around, he did all of the behind-thescenes stuff, and all I did was work and learn the business.” Thanks to the mentoring of his father, Herman had a decent idea of how to operate the business side of Herman’s Meat when he took over. However, Herman still had a lot to learn. “You just kind of learn from other professional friends that have businesses,” Herman said. “I got a lot of advice from other family members and friends that was really helpful.” Herman said there isn’t a particular reason why he’s in the meat industry, other than that’s just what he fell into at a young age. But he did say there is a gratifying aspect to being in that specific business. “I’ve just grown up doing meat and stuff like that. It is rewarding to be able to provide customers with products that are quality and what they’re looking for and

giving good customer service,” Herman said. Hoping to make his business stand a cut above the rest, Herman focuses on providing quality customer service to the community. “We strive to have customer service be the number one factor,” Herman said. “I think customer service over the years has kind of lost momentum. I think more people are just worried about putting out something that tastes good and not really concerned about the public as much anymore. We try very hard to acknowledge and treat customers really good and offer them quality service, you

A large glass display case showcases meats, cheeses and deli items customers can buy and take home.

Photo by MEGAN ROGERS PHOTOGRAPHIE

FALL 2016

TK Business Magazine

know, try to bend over backwards for them.” And as to why the owner was behind the deli counter in an apron working with meat alongside employees. “I’m a hands-on owner,” Herman said. “I’m not one that just sits back and lets people run the business. I’m here every day, doing the day-to-day operations and doing all the behind-thescenes stuff. I see just about everybody that comes in and work directly with customers.” Herman’s Meat & Deli moved from its location on SW Fairlawn Road, its home since 1990, to the new location at 4211 SW Huntoon St. on June 6. With the move and addition of the in-store barbecue restaurant came the name change to Herman’s Meat & Smokehouse. “It’s been really good,” Herman said of the new changes. “We’ve had a really good response from the public and everybody seems to be happy and positive about our store. They really like our new location, and products that we provide have gotten really good reviews.” There are no immediate plans to open a second venue. For now, Herman and his team are just enjoying the success of the longtime business in a new location. “We’re excited, and hopefully it just keeps growing,” Herman said. TK

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FALL 2016

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INVESTING IN BUSINESS

REAL ESTATE Real estate sales are a great way for a person to work as an entrepreneur without much startup capital. If you can sell $5 million in real estate every year, you can make a decent living. If you have capital to invest, consider buying real estate and renting out housing units. Jeff Huckabay went into real estate in 2009 after the closing of the Payless ShoeSource Distribution Center in Topeka. He works as a real estate agent for ReeseNichols, owns three rental houses and is remodeling his third house flip. “I love real estate,” Huckabay said. “It has its ups and downs. But it’s getting better.”

High Profit Margin Businesses By MICHAEL HOOPER

Frank Sabatini, a longtime Topeka businessman, once told me that an entrepreneur should find a good business and then duplicate it in other markets. At one time, Sabatini owned more than 60 Pizza Hut restaurants.

INDING THE RIGHT business to own is a challenge. Entrepreneurs should look for businesses that have the potential for high profit margins and develop a business plan that will generate sufficient revenue to accommodate a 10 percent net profit margin. This means if you do $500,000 in annual revenue, you will net $50,000 after paying all expenses. Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway, for example, has a net profit margin of 11.58 percent. Similarly, Westar Energy’s net margin is 13 percent. High profit margins are necessary to insulate the business from losing money. What if the economy tanks or you lose customers? Can you still make enough money to break even? A high profit margin will help you survive the tough times and expand in good times. With the help of my business friends, I have compiled a list of industries that have the potential to produce high profit margins in the future.

Michael Hooper is a Topeka freelance writer and investor. His website is http://thoughtfulinvestors.blogspot.com

FALL 2016

TK Business Magazine

TRANSPORTATION AND SHIPPING From its beginning in 1854, Topeka has been a hub for transportation. BNSF Railway, UPS, FedEx and 30 trucking companies operate in Topeka. A person who loves to drive can go far in this business. You could work for others or you could operate your own truck, be your own boss and run your own company. This is a capital intensive business. Net margin at UPS is 8.41 percent. MONEY MANAGEMENT/ACCOUNTING AND TAX PREPARATION his is a low capital investment business, meaning there is little to buy except desks, computers, software and office space. Money management, accounting and tax preparation all require specialized skills, education and licenses. Many Americans hate doing their tax returns. As a result, people who are good at tax preparation will always have a job, and could easily run their own business.

SELF-STORAGE BUSINESS With steady demand for storage, Topeka has room for more competition in the self-storage space. Americans are shop-a-holics, they can't keep all their stuff in their homes and must rent storage units. Self-storage units are high-margin businesses that require minimal maintenance. Public Storage, one of the largest operators of self-storage units in America and Europe, has a net profit margin of 53 percent—which is staggering. STAFFING AND PAYROLL MANAGEMENT This is a low capital investment but high profit margin business. Many companies use temporary staff and get labor from staffing companies. I once was part-owner of a staffing firm in Nebraska. Our business did $500,000 in sales in our first year, with a net profit of $50,000. HEALTH CARE Nurses, doctors and physical therapists are all in demand. Margins in health care are decent. About 70 percent of Americans are overweight;

many suffer from diabetes and pain in their joints. Companies with a track record of helping people lose weight and strengthen their knees, hips and feet have a solid future. HOME AND GARDEN Kansans love to spend discretionary income on decks, outdoor patio spaces and water gardens. I see an opportunity for selling non-GMO organic seeds, flowers and vegetables that will go direct from the garden to the table. I have a friend who grows his own fruits, vegetables and honey; his urban garden is a virtual jungle of sunflowers, tomatoes, honey bees, butterflies and bat populations. TECHNOLOGY Computer experts are almost always in demand. I know several people who make a good living designing software, running information technology departments or servicing computer equipment. One challenge is staying on top of current trends and not letting your business fall behind.

PLUMBING, HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING SERVICE AND REPAIR This area offers opportunities for skilled professionals to earn a high income—either working for others or by starting a company. Smart business people do their research. They make sure there is a market for their goods and services. They build in high margins to make sure they remain profitable and viable for the long term. They do what works and they do it all the time. Wash, rinse, repeat. CaChing. TK

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www.alliancebankks.com FALL 2016

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TK EXPERTS

PG.

SLEEP HYGIENE

Laura Sidlinger VALEO BEHAVIORAL HEALTH CARE

FALL 2016

CURB APPEAL

William Beteta SCHENDEL LAWN AND LANDSCAPE

TK Business Magazine

PG.

UNCOVERING TALENT

Pamela Hann KANSASWORKS

PG.

LOCATION SELECTION

Bryon Schlosser

COLDWELL BANKER GRIFFITH & BLAIR

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SLEEP HYGIENE

Photo by RACHEL LOCK PHOTOGRAPHY

Laura Sidlinger VALEO BEHAVIORAL HEALTH CARE

The sleep-wake cycle* is a complicated process with many interconnected elements. It includes complex neurological circuitry and diverse endogenous molecules. Sleep onset is influenced by the circadian rhythm and sleep promoting neurons in various areas of the brain. The sleep cycle is comprised of several different phases with varying purposes.

ISRUPTION TO ANY ELEMENT of the sleep process can produce significant alterations, including ineffective daily function, impaired physical health and decreased quality of life. Acute and chronic stressors can redirect circuitry to maintain wakefulness rather than allowing for sleep induction. Naturally, the body experiences a 24-hour cycle where hormones and neurotransmitters are released to maintain a sleep-wake pattern. The purpose of sleep is to restore equilibrium; thus, short-term sleep deprivation is typically followed by compensatory extra sleep. Should sleep restoration not occur, the effects on oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s well-being become more prominent.

COMMON SLEEP DISORDERS The most common sleep disorder is insomnia. Insomnia is defined as hyperarousal, which is induced by the stress response. Common symptoms are difficulty initiating or maintaining sleep and early morning awakenings without being able to return to sleep. Insomnia often results in distress or impairment in social and occupational/academic settings. It must occur three or more times per week, be present for at least three months and occur despite adequate opportunity to sleep. It cannot be explained by another sleep-wake disorder or be caused by a medical condition or substance use. Shift workers have a unique type of sleep dysfunction. They often attempt to be alert at different times of the 24-hour cycle, causing disruptions in the circadian rhythm. These individuals often report dissatisfaction with the quality of the sleep, decreased alertness, impaired mental ability and lower quality of work performance. There is evidence to support that those who work the night shift have a shorter life expectancy. Medical conditions that are commonly associated with sleep dysfunction include, Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Restless Leg Syndrome. OSA is diagnosed through the use of sleep studies and is often treated with weight loss and the use of Continuous Positive Pressure Airway. RLS is often treated successfully with specific medications.

Sleep Hygiene Advice

TREATMENTS FOR SLEEP DISORDER One of the most effective treatments for sleep disorder is good sleep hygiene. Sleep hygiene requires a person to take specific steps to eliminate subtle triggers. Subtle triggers induce neurochemical stimulation, or alterations, which disrupt sleep. Consistent application of sleep hygiene techniques will often reverse sleep dysfunction. If these interventions prove to be ineffective, medications may be required to augment sleep. Over-the-counter options include melatonin, a natural hormone produced by the pineal gland in the brain which may be producing insufficient quantities. Other over-thecounter sleep aids typically include diphenhydramine (generic name for Benadryl), which blocks wakefulness. A healthcare provider should be consulted for appropriate dosing. It is important to remember that sleep disturbance may be a symptom of another mental health disorder or medical problem. Establishing and maintaining care with a primary care provider is an important first step in treating sleep dysfunction. Allow for adequate time for neurochemical imbalances to stabilize before moving on to more aggressive treatments. If improved sleep is not achieved, a referral to a sleep specialist or behavioral health provider may be warranted.

PERSONAL HEALTH 68

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TK Business Magazine

Laura Sidlinger, DNP, APRN-C is the Director of Medical Services and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner-BC for Valeo Behavioral Health Care.

Tips for Good Sleep Hygiene Establish a pre-bedtime routine. Turn off the TV, take a warm bath or shower, meditate, journal, decompress from the day. Maintain a regular sleep routine. Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day. Ideally, your schedule should remain the same within about 20 minutes from day-to-day. One of the best examples of having to re-establish sleep routines is when children return to school after extended breaks; summer is even worse because of later daylight in the evenings. Avoid naps if possible. Naps often will delay sleep onset as the body has not experienced sufficient fatigue. Naps may be followed by sleep fragmentation and progress to insomnia. Don’t remain in bed for more than 10 minutes if you are awake. If you find your mind racing, get out of bed and sit in a chair in the dark. When you find yourself sleepy, return to the bed for sleep. Don’t watch TV or engage with devices such as tablets, phones or other backlit devices while in bed. This artificial light prevents the brain from releasing melatonin which will interfere with drowsiness. Don't drink fluids, especially caffeine, late in the day/evening. Some people are more sensitive than others to the stimulating effects of caffeine, but nearly all are affected by full bladders and the need to go to the bathroom at night. Minimize interruptions. Don’t forget about hidden caffeine in chocolate, some teas and energy drinks/herbal supplements. Avoid other substances that interfere with sleep. Cigarettes, alcohol and some medications may increase fragmented sleep. Exercise regularly. If possible, exercise before 2 p.m. as late exercise might be invigorating and interfere with sleep onset. Maintain a quiet, comfortable bedroom. Maintain a comfortable temperature, turn off the lights, and consider replacing the mattress if you cannot maintain a relaxing sleep posture. Avoid looking at the clock. Turn it away or upside down if you tend to look at the time.

* Sleep-Wake Cycle Defined: Physiology. The biological pattern of alternating sleep and wakefulness, in humans roughly 8 hours of nocturnal sleep and 16 hours of daytime activity. Resources: The National Sleep Foundation Neurophysiology of Sleep and Wakefulness: Basic Science and Clinical Implications by Jonathan R. L. Schwartz & Thomas Roth; Current Neuropharmacology. (2008) 6, 367-378.

FALL 2016

TK Business Magazine

CURB APPEAL

Photo by RACHEL LOCK PHOTOGRAPHY

William Beteta SCHENDEL LAWN AND LANDSCAPE

Lawn and landscape maintenance shouldn't end with the conclusion of summer.

ALL IS AN IMPORTANT TIME of year to plan and prepare your outdoor space for winter. Companies and homeowners can take a number of steps in this cooler time of year to ensure your landscape will look its best come spring. Thinking about adding or redoing some landscaping? Want to install a new patio or outdoor kitchen at home? Is your company considering an irrigation system? Planning and budgeting in advance for work you would like to have done next year means you won’t scramble to choose a company, determine a budget, and finalize a design when you are ready to start the work in the spring.

William Beteta is a Business Development Specialist and Landscape Architect at Schendel Lawn and Landscape.

5 THINGS TO DO THIS FALL

to make your lawn and landscape look its best next spring.

BUDGET. Budgeting for next year’s lawn fertilization, mowing and lawn maintenance now, means you aren’t trying to fit it in your budget in the spring. You also may be able to take advantage of pre-payment and early sign up savings.

PLANT. We often think of planting as a spring project; however, fall is a great time to plant trees and bushes. The cooler temperatures mean less stress for the plants, giving them a better opportunity to thrive. Also, some spring time flowering plants, like tulips and hyacinth, have to be planted in the fall.

RAKE. It’s down there at the bottom of fun landscaping chores, but cleaning up leaves in the fall helps keep your lawn healthy for the spring. When leaves sit on the grass and landscape beds during the winter, moisture can collect underneath them and cause fungus problems. Sitting leaves prevent sunlight from reaching the grass, which means the grass is missing out on a key nutrient. They can also provide a habitat for unwanted pests. Removing leaves from your property now, makes spring-time cleanups easier and more affordable. Most importantly—the curb appeal factor—customers don’t want to trudge through leaves to get to your front door.

CLEANUP. Correctly cutting back perennial plants in the fall will help them start growing in the spring without additional effort. Also, cleaning up debris from around your property helps prevent pests and diseases from collecting in your yard and landscape, making for a healthier place for plants and grass to grow.

PLAN. Establishing a snow removal plan in the fall eliminates the stress of trying to find a plowing company when snow suddenly appears in the winter forecast. Snow and ice removal is crucial to the safety of your employees and customers. When contracting with a company, make sure you agree on key services, such as: the snowfall amount that will trigger a service, if they will clear sidewalks, and if they will apply sand or salt.

LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE 70

FALL 2016

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YOUR

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FALL 2016

TK Business Magazine

UNCOVERING TALENT

Photo by RACHEL LOCK PHOTOGRAPHY

Pamela Hann KANSASWORKS

The state of Kansas has reached the lowest unemployment in 15 years. People are working, gaining new skills and talents, and providing for their families. It is also a time of a “selective workforce.”

ANDIDATES HAVE THE PRIME PICK of which employer they would like to talk with. Desperation is a thing of the past. What are your company’s recruitment needs? Is your team working at maximum capacity? Are you retaining the talent you worked so hard to attract? If not, what is missing? As you prepare to recruit new talent, identify your company’s needs to customize a plan of action to recruit those that will make your business profitable. Uncovering the “Hidden Talent Market” is a challenge worth pursuing.

Pamela Hann, CPRW, OWDS/OERS, GCDF is the Regional Operations Manager for KANSASWORKS, a part of Northeast Kansas Department of Commerce's Workforce Division.

FALL 2016

TK Business Magazine

RECRUITING SUGGESTIONS to find the hidden talent pool in this market.

UTILIZE YOUR STATE WORKFORCE SYSTEM. The State of Kansas’ workforce system is a hidden gem called KANSASWORKS. The workforce centers are able to help you with exclusive hiring events, job postings and customizing services to fit your needs. KANSASWORKS knows which candidates are passively seeking employment and which are underemployed for their skill set. The employer-driven access to the KANSASWORKS website allows you to post your own job openings, review résumés and check labor market information to remain competitive in today’s market. Jobseekers receive email alerts from KANSASWORKS to learn about your hiring opportunities.

2 3 4 5

NETWORK. As the saying goes, “good people know good people.” Talk to your top performers—who do they know looking for work? Where do they suggest to recruit from? Don’t stop there, talk to other individuals you respect and trust. Let them know that you are looking, ask them for prospects and encourage them to share your company’s opportunities with their friends and associates. DIVERSIFY YOUR WORKFORCE. Veterans are returning, older workers are looking for a new challenge, stay-at-home moms are checking back into the workforce, previously incarcerated individuals are returning citizens, and people with disabilities want to work and provide for their families. In addition to benefiting from having a representation of the community, hiring these individuals could qualify your business for Work Opportunity Tax Credit and save your business up to $9,600 on year-end taxes.

ATTRACT TALENT BY ENGAGING ON SOCIAL MEDIA. Are you engaging with the potential jobseekers before they are looking? Use social media to connect with talent. Tell them your story, your purpose and your culture to attract them to you. Be aware, potential candidates are watching. If you don’t engage online through social media and your website, they will notice that as well. TRAINING PROGRAMS. Does your company need a specialized skill set? Higher education programs will partner with you to provide interns and graduates on a regular basis. Consider working with a university or tech school to develop a customized training program.

RECRUITMENT

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY November 26, 2016 Entrepreneurial & Minority Business Development A GO Topeka Program

FALL 2016

TK Business Magazine

LOCATION SELECTION

Photo by RACHEL LOCK PHOTOGRAPHY

Bryon Schlosser COLDWELL BANKER GRIFFITH & BLAIR

In these times of virtual offices and virtual storefronts, it is possible for many businesses and entrepreneurs to work from a cave. Nevertheless, some businesses by necessity, or by their service model, require a local location. But, where?

Selection vs. Elimination HE BIGGEST MISTAKE site locaters make is to start by choosing a site, then trying to acquire it. It is better to start with all the possibilities, then begin eliminating those that do not meet a prioritized list of success factors identified for this business location. The Process of Elimination gives a more thorough evaluation than the Process of Selection. It also allows you to negotiate from a position of strength, knowing that through the process of elimination, you have identified a number of acceptable alternatives from which to choose.

12 THINGS TO CONSIDER to make an educated location decision. ll Traffic Patterns and Drive Times:

What does the traffic look like on the days of the week and the times of the days you expect your customers want to be there? ll Demographics: What is the

demographic makeup of the population living, working or driving by the area, and does it match the consumers you want to attract and the employees you want to hire? ll Visibility: Can drivers and passengers

see your storefront? I know lots of businesses classify themselves as “destination locations.” That means they feel like their customers drive to their location on purpose, not just on impulse. Be careful not to be so in love with your business that you take visibility for granted. Great visibility can be the equivalent of thousands of dollars of marketing. Think of your location as a billboard. ll Accessibility: I’m talking about ingress

and egress by vehicle to your location. Do traffic signals back up traffic past your points of ingress and egress, or do they block traffic so that accessibility is made easier? Can a driver turn left into or out of your location? ll Utilities: Water, sewer, gas, electricity

Bryon Schlosser is the president and owner of Coldwell Banker Griffith & Blair American Home, and Griffith & Blair Commercial.

and Internet service availability are affordable in Topeka, but does your location deliver an adequate supply for your intended purpose?

ll Parking: Topekans expect to walk a

few blocks when they shop in Lawrence or Kansas City, but we have different expectations for our city. Does your location provide sufficient parking, and does it meet governmental requirements for the size of the operation? ll Delivery-Receiving: How are deliveries

and/or pick-ups going to be made, especially during business hours? Where do you dispose of trash and is that safe for your employees? ll Competitors: Where are your

competitors, and do you want to be close to them or as far away as possible? ll Cannibalization: If this will be a new

location for a multiple location business, how many of your current locations will lose business because of your new location? ll Street Projects: Are street

improvements scheduled that might temporarily or permanently disrupt traffic patterns in the future? ll Future Considerations: What will this

location look like 10 years from now? ll Pioneering: Do you have the staying

power to be the first retailer in the area? History remembers pioneers, but many pioneers got shot. If you are counting on the location being the retail growth area of the future, it might be better to let someone else be the canary in that coal mine.

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE 74

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CONGRATULATIONS Amanda Lewis from Coldwell Banker Griffith & Blair who was named to the prestigious Coldwell Banker Real Estate 30 Under 30 list representing the top young real estate professionals worldwide. Amanda is a second generation Coldwell Banker family member and grew up with a fascination with real estate and the idea of helping people achieve their "American Dream". We are proud to work with Amanda.

The Coldwell Banker network can help you build global relationships, offer award-winning educational opportunities, and provide you with the industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most innovative technology and marketing.

Did you know we can replace a missing tooth? Get the feel, function and appearance of natural looking teeth with dental implants.

Julie C. Swift, DDS, MS

FALL 2016

www.topekaperio.com

TK Business Magazine

WHERE TO SHOP

For Every Occasion WESTRIDGEMALL.COM | 1801 SW Wanamaker Rd, Topeka, KS

FALL 2016

TK Business Magazine

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

For every fan,

PHOTO 1 Brett Klausman, Midwest Health; Greg Schwerdt, Schwerdt Design Group; Kevin Holland, Cook, Flatt & Strobel Engineers; Mike Morse, Kansas Commerical

Fast Forward Golf Tournament TOPEKA COUNTRY CLUB AUGUST 5, 2016

there is a season.

FIND YOURS HERE.

PHOTO 2 Brian Armstrong, Jeff Lolley, Scott Uhl and Brian Austin, Bartlett & West

Photos by ROB NALL

PHOTO 3 Drew Judd, White Star Machinery; Kelly McFarland and Deb McFarland, Coldwell Banker; Mac McFarland

PHOTO 4

Gabriel O'Shea, Fast Foward; Scott Griffith, Intrust Bank; Trey Pivarnik; Matt Pivarnik, GO Topeka & Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce

PHOTO 5

John Hunter, Heartland Visioning; Andrew Drinkard, Jayhawk File Express; Eric Claspill, Waddell & Reed; Marc Dewey, Cox Business

PHOTO 6 Keith Drinkard, Intrust Bank; Brian Adams, Top City Soda Pop; Matt Deustch, Berberich Trahan & Co.; Gary Haag, Haag Oil

PHOTO 7

Nathan Morris and Keith Richards, Meridian Roofing; Kevin Richards, BNSF; Owen Metheny, Meridian Roofing; Brad Barnett, Intelligent Roofing

“Season tickets with my husband has been the best thing we’ve ever invested in. So much fun!!!” -Melanie

881

Voted Topeka’s Favorite Date Night

YEARS

FALL 2016

TK Business Magazine

FALL 2016

TK Business Magazine

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

For every fan,

there is a season.

FIND YOURS HERE.

Photos by KEITH HORINEK

“Great theater. So proud to take our families to productions at TCT.”

Topeka Active 20-30 Children's Benefit Auction & Gala DOWNTOWN RAMADA AUGUST 13, 2016

- Shirley

YEARS

881 Voted Topeka’s Favorite Customer Service & Place to Work FALL 2016

TK Business Magazine

FALL 2016

TK Business Magazine

SCENE ABOUT TOWN

For every fan,

there is a season.

Downtown Topeka After Hours JAYHAWK THEATRE AUGUST 11, 2016

PHOTO 1 Zach Snethen, HTK Architect; Amber Bonnett, Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library; Sarah Fizell, ARTSConnect

FIND YOURS HERE.

PHOTO 2 Anna Keena, League of Kansas Municipalities; Tom Stubbs, Doublestar Mingren Export; Lisa Stubbs, Security Benefit

Photos by KEITH HORINEK

PHOTO 3 Mark Kossler, Fidelity State Bank; Roger Frye, Downtown Ramada

PHOTO 4

Doris Henning, Equity Bank; Garry Cushinberry, Core First Bank; John Hunter, Heartland Visioning; Jim Deines, Strategic Funding

PHOTO 5 John Holecek, Jayhawk Theatre; Jeff Carson, Gizmo Pictures; Jim Klausman, Midwest Health; Vince Frye, Downtown Topeka, Inc.

PHOTO 6 Lisa Sandmeyer, Historic Topeka Cemetery; Cris Cruz, Smith Audio Visual

“TCT productions are brilliant. We have been season ticket holders for many years. Wouldn`t miss a show”

881 881 - John

YEARS

Voted Topeka’s Favorite Customer Service & Place 6 to Work FALL 2016

Voted Topeka’s Favorite Entertainment Venue & LIVE Theatre TK Business Magazine

LAST WORD

GARY STARR

Aaron and Gary Starr

OWNER GARY'S BERRIES

FINANCIAL ADVISOR EDWARD JONES INVESTMENTS

Why did you open Gary's Berries? I grew up picking strawberries with my grandfather. I always thought if someone gave me 25 acres I could make a living out of it. I wanted to share that with my children, giving them experiences most children didn't have. This resulted in a home school project that got out of hand!! How do you balance your time between Gary's Berries and being a financial advisor? Not many people have the opportunity to merge their business with their hobby. I have the best of both worlds by having a place to invite my clients and spend time with them outside of the office, sharing the farm and its facilities.

FALL 2016

Two of your three kids work for you at Edward Jones. Do they work for Gary's Berries as well? Emily and Aaron are both Financial Advisors with Edward Jones. My oldest son, Michael, works with me at Gary's Berries along with Aaron. Emily got married this past spring and now lives in Osawatomie. What are the rewards and challenges of working with your kids? REWARDS: You always get to see them! Having something to bring you together every year can never be replaced. CHALLENGES: Facing the fact that they have become adults and actually have good ideas that you didn't come up with yourself.

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What is your favorite part of Garyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Berries? That has to be the little children. One day I gave this little girl, who was about 3 years old, some cotton candy. She was surprised. A little later I saw her again. Cotton candy was on her face, and her parents said it was her first time eating cotton candy. She had told them this was the best day ever. You cannot buy that. What are the rewards of Gary's Berries? The rewards are easy. The kids. The friends you make. Seeing them return year after year with their growing families. And, most importantly, being able to share with others what we have been blessed with.

Challenges? The unpredictable weather that can greatly impact your weekends, and finding more than 100 people to employ to help us keep everything running smoothly. Have you ever gotten lost in the corn maze? The first year, when we were cutting the maize, it got away from us (grew too much). Michael, our oldest son, would walk in front of me while I sprayed the paths and say, "over here Dad," but I could not see him. Are there secrets to the corn maze? Secrets. Yes. That is why they are secret. What are your hopes for the future of Gary's Berries? To continue to create an environment where the fun and memories never end for generations to come.

FAMILY MUSICALS DRAMA WORLD PREMIERE CLASSICS THOUGHT-PROVOKING FARCE

For every fan, there is a season.

FIND YOURS HERE. 2016-17 SEASON MEMBERSHIPS are now on sale. Starting at $199, each membership includes a flexible bank of eight tickets, allowing you to only see the shows you want. A season membership makes the ultimate gift for your spouse, securing four shows (or date nights) per year. Or purchase a membership and take the whole family to one or two shows.

BOX OFFICE

357.5211 topekacivictheatre.com FALL 2016

TK Business Magazine

FALL 2016

TK Business Magazine