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stormont-vail & cotton-o’neil
After Hours Care Stormont-Vail HealthCare provides a variety of levels of care. If a medical need occurs when your primary care physician is not available, you have two options:
Mild
Moderate
Cotton-O’Neil ExpressCare Severe With three locations in Topeka and one in Osage City, these urgent care clinics, complete with lab and X-ray services, are available to patients of all ages who need treatment for a minor illness or injury. At each ExpressCare clinic, a physician is available to treat adult and pediatric patients, whether you are a Cotton-O’Neil patient or not. ExpressCare – Croco: 2909 S.E. Walnut Dr. 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. weekdays, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekends ExpressCare – Urish: 6725 S.W. 29th St. 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. weekdays, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekends
Mild
Moderate
Severe
ExpressCare – North: 1130 N. Kansas Ave. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays ExpressCare – Osage City: 131 W. Market 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekends
Stormont-Vail Emergency and Trauma Center Open 24 hours a day, every day, and designed for sudden, serious injury or illness. Located one block west of Eighth and Washburn in Topeka.
Call Health Connections’ Ask-A-Nurse at (785) 354-5225 evenings and weekends for help finding the most appropriate level of care.
stormontvail.org
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contents
{Fall 2013} Features
8 The Business of Music A look at how Topekans have turned music into business. 16 Managing Your Money at Any Age Kansas Financial Resources provides advice on smart money management. 24 Living Your Golden Years Your Way Lifestyle choices and health options for older members of the community. 36 Expanding the Expocentre An in-depth look at proposed improvements to the Kansas Expocentre.
8
THE BUSINESS OF MUSIC
36
expanding the EXPOCENTRE
In Every Issue
54
4 Editor’s Page Rock on Topeka 6 A Guide to Style Personal stylist Kimberly Marney gives us a peek at fall fashion trends. 52 Fostering Excellence The Center For Excellence explains the benefits of Lean Six Sigma. 62 Extra Extra
nib's house of coffee
Columns 44 Heart of the Entrepreneur Martha Piland's entrepreneurial journey. 48 From the Professor Liviu Florea and Sorin Valcea, assistant professors of management at Washburn University, take us inside the health-care debate.
66 Scene About Town
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managing your money at any age
54 Nibs’s House of Coffee A Love Story 58 Stepping Up To Leadership Rich Drinon discusses the practice of visioning.
On the Cover: Column of snare shells: 5.5x14 North American Rock Maple, 5x14 Quilted Maple, 6.5x14 Mahogany, 5.5x14 Purple-dyed Maple, 5.5x14 Dark Zebrawood, 7x14 Lacy Red Oak, 6.5x14 Quilted Cherry, 7x14 Quarter-Sawn Sycamore
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[editor's note]
TK
Topeka’s Business letters to the editorMagazine Fall 2013
Publisher
TARA DIMICK
Editor-in-Chief LISA LOEWEN
ROCK ON TOPEKA
Writing the article about the business of music in Topeka reminded me of what a musical treasure Topeka truly is. I vividly remember arguing with my husband 18 years ago about where we were going to live when he finished school. I knew we would live in Kansas, but I was adamant it not be in Topeka. After all, there was nothing cultural to do in Topeka. Not like Lawrence or Kansas City. Needless to say I didn’t get my way. And I am honestly thankful every day that I didn’t. What I didn’t understand all those years ago is that Topeka is rich in musical and stage talent. I discovered wonderful community theaters, great live music venues and a wealth of musical talent. After all, it is home to rock legend Kerry Livgren of the band KANSAS. Who doesn’t have “Dust in the Wind” or “Carry On Wayward Son” on their best songs of all time playlist? You might not know who Andy McKee is, but I bet you know who Prince is. Andy just came back from an Australian tour with Prince where he opened the concert with an acoustic version of “Purple Rain” and then played a medley of other Prince hits. Prince specifically searched out Andy and asked him to be part of the tour. Where did he find him? Right here in Topeka. TreeHouse Drums also calls Topeka home. This little custom drum shop in the basement of Supersonic Music has sent drums all over the world and has built quite a reputation for its quality of sound. The most recent custom TreeHouse drum set is going on the road with a band you might have heard of—Queen. We also have one of the most renowned venues for blues music in the Midwest and a treasure trove of talented performers, teachers and creators of music. Topeka may be a small city in the middle of the country, but it is on the radar of the music world. And that’s pretty cool.
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Designer JENNI PONTON
Account Executives Tara Dimick - 785.217.4836
Photographer RACHEL LOCK
Contributing Writers Melissa Brunner, Rich Drinon, Liviu Florea, Rick LeJuerrne, Lisa Loewen, Kim Marney, Karen Ridder, Thomas Underwood, Sorin Valcea
Contributing Experts Eric Hunsicker, Scott Hunsicker, Todd Zimlich
Founder KEVIN DOEL PO Box 67272 | Topeka, Kansas 66667 785-217-4836 | tara@tkmagazine.com www.tkmagazine.com
Comments & Suggestions tara@tkmagazine.com
Publishing Company E2 Communications, Inc. 2013 TK...Topeka's 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 there in. 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 companies, 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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by Kimberly Marney
Stacy London-trained style for hire personal stylist
must have Fall Fashion Trends
Heirloom Jewelry Keep it simple and tasteful.
Alexis Bittar 'Semiprecious Jeweled Lucite Ring' $295 at saksfifthavenue.com
for the Workplace Black & White Whether it’s prints or contrasting garments, black and white is a nice modern statement for fall.
Mixed-Dot Wrap $59.50 at Talbots.com
Eliza J 'Ponte Knit Skater Dress' $138 at Nordstrom.com
Color Rich Bordeaux and vibrant blues dominate men and women’s garments this season.
Dots Scarves and blouses, even footwear can be appropriate in the boardroom.
HUGO BOSS 'Hutch' Trim Fit Wool Blazer $595 at Nordstrom.com
Plaids Ditch the solid suits for vibrant or soft plaids. Men should go bold with a tartan tie.
Gray Dove, charcoal and other iterations are perfectly expressed in a new structured handbag. This conservative piece goes with practically everything and is a must have for fall. For men, think gray on gray in tweeds, plaids and flannel suiting. Michael Kors 'Hamilton - Large' Saffiano Leather Tote, $358.00 at Nordstrom.com
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Smythe 'Elbow Patch Hunting Jacket' $595 at Nordstrom.com
Michael Kors Silk Bow Tie $39.50 at Nordstrom.com
Candy Colored Coats A must! Have some fun with your outerwear. It brightens up the grayest of days.
Roofing excellence since 1979.
Do the right thing. Vince Camuto 'Heidi' Double Breasted Trench Coat $138.00 at Nordstrom.com
Oxfords Both men and women can enjoy these smart shoes with trousers. Also perfect with a skirt. Stuart Weitzman 'Suitable' Oxford $390 at Nordstrom.com
“When a customer needs help, we always do the right thing.” – Don Morris For 35 years and three generations our family has kept that promise. Our proven approach saves money and prolongs the value of your investment. Don’t risk your facility’s roof on an unproven contractor. Call the pros at Midwest Coating.
Intarsia Sweaters Think color-blocking but don’t go too wild. Pair a sweater with a skirt or trousers on more casual days.
(785) 232-4276 www.MidwestCoating.us
Nic + Zoe 'Belted Scroll Cardigan' $144 at Nordstrom.com
For more information on how to refresh your wardrobe for Fall, Kimberly Marney is your go to resource for wardrobe consultations. Kimberly.marney@styleforhire.com
Randy Morris
President
Brandon Aldridge
Sales Manager
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by Lisa Loewen
You hear stories all the time about how tough the music business is. Many musicians barely scrape by or have to work other jobs to pay the bills. However, some musical entrepreneurs right here in Topeka have turned the tables and turned music into business success.
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Andy fell in love with the guitar at the age of 12. By the time he was 14, he knew he wanted to pursue a career in music. A Washburn Rural High School student, Andy opted to get his GED at the age of 16 and throw himself into his music career. Teaching others to play was the first step on his career path. He taught guitar lessons from the time he was 17 until 27. Teaching lessons paid the bills. In his free time he wrote original instrumental acoustic guitar music and began to perform. After appearing in numerous finger-style guitar contests, his name started circulating in “guitar circles.” He networked with other musicians around the world and soon found himself performing across the United States and even internationally. Secrets to Success Andy always had a vision for where he wanted to go—a career in music. He put in the hours of practice, used the influences of other guitarists such as Preston Reed and John Ross to create his own unique music, and networked like crazy to get his name out there. Reaping the Rewards At 34, Andy has seen his music career evolve dramatically. Last year an independent music label in Milwaukee released some YouTube videos of Andy performing that quickly went viral. Those videos led to music icon Prince asking Andy to go on tour with him in Australia as a guest performer. He also completed an Asia tour performing in more than 250 shows. On the Horizon This year Andy plans to stay home a little more to spend time with his family. He has a 2-year-old son, Lachlan and his wife is expecting another baby in September. This year will be one of performing every other weekend, creating new music, and being a dad. photo by: Christine McKee
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You can’t hail from Kansas and not recognize the name Kerry Livgren. As one of the founders and primary songwriter for the band KANSAS, Kerry quickly made a name for himself with his creative expression and originality. Following a brilliant career with the band, he released several solo albums and founded Grandyzine Productions and Numavox Records. When Kerry first started out in music, he barely eked out a living. That all changed when KANSAS’ first hit, “Carry on Wayward Son” hit the charts. Although he always felt it was just a matter of time before he was successful, it took three years after being signed before it really hit home. He says he’ll never forget the moment he knew he had made it big—when the band was presented with its first Gold Album. From there he embarked on the ride of his life. Secrets to Success As a serial entrepreneur, Kerry has always understood that while music was his passion, it was also a business. He credits much of his success to hard work and good business decisions. While other musicians were throwing money to the wind, Kerry was investing his. When he got his first budget with CBS to do a solo album, he rented a studio and pocketed the money. He used the budget for his second album to buy his own studio equipment so he wouldn’t have those out-ofpocket expenses going forward. Kerry says musicians need more than raw talent— they must find the creative difference that makes them original. And, if you want to be serious about the music business, he says you need to have people in your corner to help you wade through the process. Reaping the Rewards Kerry has ridden the proverbial wave of fame as a performer and songwriter. His ongoing royalties from writing songs such as “Dust in the Wind” and “Carry on Wayward Son,” coupled with royalties from CDs and singles of the band KANSAS, provide a steady revenue stream. He is still writing and recording original music. His favorite song ever produced? A piece that no one has heard yet—a Cantata—30 years in the making. photo submitted by Kerry Livgren
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BRENT& MILTON 8 year Customer “I got involved with Capital City Bank when I was rehabbing a property. I was a rookie at what I was doing and needed someone to guide me through that process. Capital City Bank was my guide. Having a relationship with my bank is very important to me.” – Brent Morrison
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TreeHouse Drums was born in 2000 when Derek Sharp, owner of Supersonic Music in Topeka, was tasked with building a custom drum for a client who wanted to add onto his existing drum set. Derek was already refurbishing drums made by other people, so he thought “why not?” Derek spent the next year and a half making the tools he needed to make drums. From there, his custom drum business has grown into an internationally recognized brand. Secrets to Success Already having a storefront that paid the bills allowed Derek to open his custom drum business without much financial risk. Then, instead of marketing the drums through his store, he put them into the hands of drummers at music festivals, high school jazz festivals, and KU, K-State and Pitt State music festivals. Once drummers heard the quality of sound coming from these custom drum sets, they were sold. Reaping the Rewards Already this year, TreeHouse Drums has made more drums than any other year. One custom set went to a popular band in Scotland. A Tupan (Gypsy) drum is appearing at various renaissance festivals around the country. A Surdo (Brazilian) drum is heading to Wichita for Derek’s son’s wedding. An order for a Broadway show turned into a whole new concept for a compact, more portable drum set—already in high demand. And the coup de gras? His latest custom set will tour with Queen this fall. Why TreeHouse? The name comes from a love story. When Derek was 10, he saw a 9-year-old girl dragging wood across the street from his house. When he asked her what she was doing, she replied, “building a tree house.” He offered to help. Little did they know that tree house would result in a marriage lasting 22 years and counting.
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Five years ago, David Schaffer put his lifelong dream into motion—an academy of rock in Topeka. A working musician all through the 90s, when David moved back to Topeka, his first thought was, “I’m a musician, what am I going to do now?” He dreamed of taking his love and knowledge of music and paying it forward. So when the right location became available, he took the first step to making that dream a reality. Secrets to Success Because a school of music is only as good as its teachers, David sought music professionals and skilled individuals who wanted to make teaching a long-term priority. He also wanted to make music fun. He saw so many kids taking private lessons who would simply go home and practice in their bedrooms. They followed the same routine week after week, often becoming bored with both the music and the process.
At LMI, kids not only take lessons, but also have an opportunity to play with other musicians their age, with similar interests. They learn to work together as a band and even perform on stage. LMI “band aids” help tutor them along the way, strengthening their technical skills and bolstering their confidence. Most people associate LMI with rock music. They expect students to learn guitar and drums. What they might find surprising is that students can take lessons for virtually any instrument—from harmonica to trumpet. Reaping the Rewards LMI Academy of Rock students are getting some “gigs.” David has groups play at Cider Days, the Celtic Fox, Gage Amphitheater and the library. In fact, his greatest satisfaction is seeing some of these groups still playing together after three or four years, forming close friendships and lifelong memories.
Pictured from left to right: Max Lock, Celeste, Arec Rich, Izzie Girl of Destiny, Dave (owner of Live music) Jiana Van Higgins
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The
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Uncle Bo’s Blues Bar, located in the Ramada in Topeka, is known for its outstanding concerts and performers. Bringing quality blues talent from around the country to a small city like Topeka might seem a difficult task, but one that Suki Willison makes look easy. Suki began booking bands with her lunch money while she was in junior high. She loved music, especially blues. She traveled to Memphis to watch and learn about performers, audiences and the magic that makes entertainment. Her countless connections tied her to a giant musical family where everyone knows everyone. She brought her knowledge, her sixth sense about talent and her vast network of artists to Uncle Bo’s eight years ago. Since that time the popularity of the blues club has skyrocketed. Secrets to Success For Suki, the number one key to success is watching and listening to understand what people like. She travels to watch new bands perform, looking for that special “something” that captures the audience. Her ultimate goal is to find bands that entertain people. Suki also understands that this is a business, not only for her, but also for the artists themselves. As a result, she sometimes feels more like a traffic controller than a talent scout. She spends countless hours looking at performance schedules trying to route popular bands through Topeka as part of a road tour. And she continually works her connections at blues festivals to find new talent and keep old acquaintances top of mind. Reaping the Rewards The laundry list of big name blues bands speaks for itself: Phantom Blues Band with Mike Finnigan—Played back up for the Blues Brothers. Their agent called and said,” We want to play Bo’s because we heard it’s the place to be.” Tab Benoit—Advocate for wetlands in Louisiana Paul Thorn—Singer-songwriter whose music is a mix of blues and rock Curtis Salagado—2013 BB King Entertainer of the Year; Soul Blues Male Artist of the Year; Soul Blues Album of the Year Suki knows she really has something when bands say, “I know I’ve made it when I get to play Uncle Bo’s.”
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managing your money at any age
No matter what stage of life you are in, having a solid financial plan will help you prepare for the future. Kansas Financial Resources walks you through appropriate financial steps to take throughout four major life stages.
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Just Starting Out Age 20-28
This is a vital stage of the financial timeline and some of the most significant gains come from financial education.
• Learn to live within your financial means and be financially responsible. • Understand compound interest and the importance of saving. If you don’t save money today, it won’t be there when you need it. • Avoid credit card debt. If you are unable to avoid using credit cards, be sure to pay more than the minimum balance due or you will never catch up. • Take advantage of employer sponsored retirement plans. Many employers provide an incentive for you to participate by matching your contributions. Do not leave money on the table. If your employer matches 5 percent, look at it as a 5 percent raise rather than an additional 5 percent out of your check. • Learn about Open Roth IRAs. This could be one of the most valuable decisions you make for tax-free growth on investment/retirement income.
Q:
I’m fresh out of college and starting a new job. Should I participate in my employee retirement plan and/or a Roth IRA or should I pay down my school loans first?
A:
This is a tricky scenario and has a couple of different variables that will determine the best choice. First of all student loans are not necessarily bad debt. Generally they have exceptionally low interest rates (4% or lower). Another benefit is the ability to deduct the interest on your student loans from your taxes; however be sure to visit with an accountant when doing this because there are income limits and a credit limit you must qualify for before a deduction is allowed. If you are able to take advantage of low interest student loans and qualify for the tax deduction, it would be recommended to pay less on student loans and direct more toward retirement and savings. In general, your money will work harder for you in your retirement plans/investments than it will in your student loans. Plus the beauty of starting to save at an early age lets you see the importance of saving and the effects of compound interest.
FINANCIAL ADVICE FROM:
Eric hunsicker Eric Hunsicker is a second-generation KFR agent who began his career with the firm in 2004. He focuses on clients of all income levels and specializes in assessing the needs of the local farming and business communities.
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plan & protect Age 28-45
During this stage of life, it is important to continue to make smart financial decisions.
Q:
At 34 years old with a growing family, how should I prioritize my credit card debt, student loans, mortgage payments, college funds and retirement savings?
A:
• Continue taking advantage of employer sponsored retirement plans and your Roth IRA. Increase contributions if you are able. • Develop a financial plan.
As with all areas of life, we need to have balance. Your finances are no different. Debt reduction and saving and investing can go hand in hand. High interest debt (like credit cards) should be eliminated as soon as possible. Any debt where an individual can deduct the interest paid annually from one’s income for tax purposes (like mortgages and student loans) can be considered favorable debt depending on the interest rate being paid. Ideally, you can pay reasonable amounts on these “favorable” debts and still make contributions to an employer sponsored retirement plan (especially when it is matched). Other considerations should be establishing an emergency fund and an account that has growth potential yet allows access for pre-retirement needs.
FINANCIAL ADVICE FROM:
todd zimlich Todd Zimlich (ChFC, CLU, LUTCF) began his career with Kansas Financial Resources in 1994. He works with a wide range of clientele and helps determine risk and exposure of families and business through the use of insurance products.
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• Pay off high interest debt. • Risk tolerance with regards to your investing can be more aggressive than in your later years. • Plan for your family’s financial protection with the use of life insurance and disability insurance. • Begin saving for your children’s education with 529 college savings plans—college tuition increases an average of 8 percent a year. • Set up a will.
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return of money Age 46-58
As you get closer to retirement, you may need to make some adjustments to your financial plan.
• You may need to become more cautious with your investment options. Consider the risk vs. reward. At this point the return of your money is more important than the return on your money. • As you near 7 to 10 years from retirement, start to re-diversify by
Q: A:
How do I know if I am saving enough for retirement?
The younger you are, the more difficult it is to calculate what is necessary to accumulate for retirement. Numerous factors can and will change over time. Meet with an advisor to guide you along in this process. If you determine how much you need to live on now and calculate in any significant changes to that amount prior to retirement, you can get a good idea of where you are heading. Once you know the amount you need/want to live on, you can select a desired retirement age and consider the following variables:
incorporating safer investments such as bonds and guaranteed annuities. • Plan for your long-term health care needs. • Evaluate Social Security options.
• • • • • •
Inflation rate Pre-retirement savings growth rate Pensions Expected Social Security income Post-retirement savings growth rate How long you expect funds to last (or how long you expect to live)
Checking these calculations periodically with your advisor as situations and goals change will help you stay on track.
FINANCIAL ADVICE FROM:
scott hunsicker Scott Hunsicker (ChFC, CLU, LUTCF) is president of Kansas Financial Resources. As a life insurance and financial services professional, Scott works with top tier clients to help them reduce taxes, invest wisely, develop strategies for retirement, and pass on estates with minimal tax liability.
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Change is coming … and we’re Ready to Go! The Affordable Care Act offers widespread access to reliable health insurance. Whether you’re a long-time Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas member, or new to health insurance – we’re ready to answer your questions. Learn about Health Care Reform plus everything we have to offer. With Blue Cross, you’ll be good to go! Visit www.bcbsks.com/hcr
An Independent Licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association M.1303
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retirement Age 59-66
Remain actively involved with your financial plan to determine the best strategy for retirement income.
Q: A:
How do I make sure I do not outlive my money at retirement?
Careful retirement planning should alleviate some of these concerns. Once you retire, you need to continue to save money and remain involved with your financial advisor to be certain you are on the right path and not putting yourself in jeopardy of unnecessary financial risks. Because this is one of the biggest questions for retirees today, insurance and investment companies have designed specific products and programs to help a person create a guaranteed lifetime income stream. One of the most useful tools in this process is a guaranteed annuity. With so many annuity options on the market however, it is important to visit with a financial professional to determine the best product for your situation.
Kansas Financial Resources is a family-owned and operated business. The agency serves more than 3,000 local individuals, families and businesses. The KFR team has more than 50 years of combined experience in helping individuals and businesses with their financial strategies.
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• Understand your pension options, meet with a financial advisor to evaluate which option(s) will be best for you and why. • Several financial products are specifically designed to create guaranteed income at retirement. • Evaluate the impact on your spouse in the event of a premature death. • Legacy planning—determine the most cost effective and tax favorable way to pass wealth to beneficiaries at death.
RAISE the ROOF on your next party! DA I LY B A R S P E C I A LS OPEN TO CLOSE SUNDAY: $3.50 Zing Zang Bloody Marys Domestic draws: $2 pints / $3.50 jumbos $3 Breakfast shots / $2 Woo Woo shots, Melon Ball shots MONDAY: $3 Microbrew pints / $3.50 calls $3 Four Horseman shots, Oil Spill shots, Frosted Crown shots TUESDAY: $2.50 wells / $2 domestic pints, $3.50 jumbos $2 Dessert shots: Chocolate Cake, Oatmeal Cookie, Pineapple Upside-Down Cake, Cranberry Cookie, Peach Tart, Cherry Cheesecake WEDNESDAY: $2.50 wells / $3.50 calls $2.50 domestic bottles / $2 Washington Apple, Fireapple shots $4.50 Long Islands, Long Beaches, Grateful Deads THURSDAY: $3 microbrew pints $3.50 all import and premium bottled beers $2 Barrel Bombs / $4 Irish Car Bombs FRIDAY: $4.50 premium liquor singles / $3 Fireball shots $3 Ruby Slippers shots / $2 domestic pints, $3.50 jumbos SATURDAY: Domestic draws: $2 pints / $3.50 jumbos $4 X-Rated / $5 Something Good / $5 Something Better
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SEPTEMBER 21: Paradize Band
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Fall 2013
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Living Your Golden Years Your Way
by Melissa Brunner
It's inevitable—we will all get older. As the years pass, the lawn mowing may go from a weekly nuisance to a literal pain; those "senior moments," once humorous, may morph into forgetting important medications or not remembering you left dinner cooking on the stove; and negotiating the stairs might as well be climbing a mountain. It means we also have important decisions to make about how we will live as we get older. You may be adamant about staying in the home you've always known or perhaps you want to downsize. Maybe you want to save your children the worry of looking in on you; or maybe you are the child making the decision with your parent(s).
INDEPENDENT LIVING: Building a Lifestyle
A stone outside the front door of a southwest Topeka home proudly proclaims it is the residence of the Redikers. Janet Rediker, a retired extension agent, and her husband, Jerry, a retired teacher, moved from Emporia a year and a half ago and promptly made the house their home. Their beloved flower gardens are alive with color, even in the summer heat, with birdhouses, figurines and other assorted surprises placed throughout to enjoy. Inside, one room is devoted to Janet's collections, including a stunning array of Marlow woodcuts, while another room is an office where Jerry can hide away. Not that they're there
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Janet and Jerry Rediker
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much. Janet has a full schedule giving people rides to appointments and visiting shut-ins, while Jerry runs down a weekly agenda packed with meetings, volunteering, and pool and cribbage games. The Redikers' home is part of Aldersgate Village. When they decided to downsize and move closer to their children, they chose an independent living community. "Health wise, we needed to go someplace where I knew she would be taken care of down the road," Jerry said. Independent living is at the lowest end of the continuum of senior living communities. Renessa Lolley, sales and marketing coordinator for Aldersgate Village, says it is for people who truly are independent. "We're targeting those people who aren't getting out of their homes as much, who want a community setting where there are activities going on," Lolley said. "You're surrounding yourself with other people who are your age and similar lifestyle, but you have the freedom to be as active as you want to be." While it is much like living in your own home, independent living communities offer services to make life easier. Independent living residents at Aldersgate receive maintenance, lawn mowing, emergency call systems and security. If desired, they have access to housekeeping, laundry and transportation services. Residents are welcome to make additions to the yard, such as the Redikers’ flower gardens, but they must care for them themselves. Those who need a bit more assistance, but aren't at a level where they need full-fledged assisted living, may utilize home health services. Plus, all residents are invited to participate in the social activities Aldersgate offers.
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Aldersgate is one of several Topeka senior living communities that also offer higher levels of care, which means a person can go from independent living to assisted living to skilled nursing care without moving far. Lolley says that often is a big plus for families. "You don't need to start the process all over again," Lolley said. "Change is hard, so thinking about moving to another level of care can sometimes be scary. Having people you trust to visit with about it can make the transition easier."
ASSISTED LIVING: A Helping Hand
Every evening, at 6 p.m., a group gathers in a common area at Atria Hearthstone to play cards. Jared Holroyd, senior executive director at Atria, believes it's those small, social engagements that are the biggest advantage of an assisted living environment.
Residents of Atria Hearthstone
"We've talked for decades about the increasing depression of seniors but we haven't looked at why," he said. "They're not out and about. They're not seeing their friends." Marsha Anderson, marketing director of Presbyterian Manor agrees. "(Seniors) may not have the interaction required to stay mentally healthy and emotionally stimulated," she said. "We see people move in and start to bloom. Most people respond to human touch. They flourish when they get it." While social interaction is important, the basis for assisted living is providing help with the activities of daily living. People may receive meals, laundry and cleaning service, assistance with dressing and bathing, and help with administering medications. Residents in assisted living choose the extent of services they receive. The services are delivered in a home-like setting, with residents generally bringing their own furniture to outfit their apartments.
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"You are free to come and go," Anderson said. "They are independent, except they need a little help on a daily basis. The Home Health staff sees each resident daily based on their individual needs. You can be as active or inactive as you want. Your independence isn't taken from you—it's enhanced." Holroyd admits home care services can provide some of the same basic assistance. But, he says, if the burden is increasing on family and caregivers, it may be time to consider a move. "The reality is somebody may be spending six hours a week with mom, but the rest of the time, she's by herself, so you get things like isolation dementia or depression," Holroyd said. "It is ideal for the person who lives at home and who is lonely." Anderson says it also gives peace of mind to both the family and the older adult. Residents can call for assistance at any time. "It alleviates that, 'I'm all alone and I'm afraid and I can't get out,'" she said. "(In addition), parents have a terrible time with role reversal. They don't want to impose on family, so they don't call for help and they start to decline."
Memory Care
A growing need at all levels of care is in the realm of memory loss. While Presbyterian Manor is among facilities with a memory care unit in their skilled nursing area, Atria has a separate, secure area within its assisted living facility for those who are in physically good health, but who have severe dementia or Alzheimer's disease which puts them at risk for walking away from home. Staff in this Life Guidance area are specially trained and take the same approach to caring for residents with memory loss as they would with any
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Staff member talks with a resident of Brewster Place Retirement Home
"I like being around other people. Otherwise I'd be sitting home alone." - Maxine Taylor, Brewster Health Center resident other resident. "It's trying to help them live that same high-quality lifestyle everyone else has, but meeting them where they're at and realizing they're not going to get that back, but they can still enjoy life," Holroyd said. Holroyd says assisted living is a relatively new industry, just coming into its own over the past few decades. Once seniors and families understand what it is, he says, they feel more comfortable with what it can offer.
SKILLED NURSING FACILITIES: Not Your Grandparents' Nursing Home
Maxine Taylor proudly holds up the bright red and yellow birdhouse she's just painted. Five other ladies and three certified nursing assistants gather around the table express their approval. "(I like) being around other people. Otherwise I'd be sitting home
alone," Maxine states matter-of-factly. Maxine lives at Brewster Health Center, the adult care home portion of Brewster Place Retirement Community for people needing round-the-clock skilled nursing care. "This is truly 24/7 care," said Lea Chaffee, the administrator of Brewster Health Center. "There is a person available to help with everything. This setting really is what you need, whenever you need it." The adult care home setting is designed for people who can no longer be safe in their own home without 24hour support. They may be unable to take their medications appropriately or have a physical disability that requires assistance for daily tasks such as eating or using the restroom. But, Chaffee says, today's skilled nursing facilities aren't about merely making sure a person is dressed, cleaned, fed and getting their medications. Today's facilities are about helping a person live.
"The biggest surprise is that (residents) are busier than they would have been at home," Chaffee said. "A lot of people come to this setting and think there's nothing to look forward to and we give them things to look forward to." Chaffee says the realm of choice is a big shift in the long-term care industry. "I think (seniors) feel like they come into this environment and the nurse will make all the choices for them and they don't," Chaffee said. "They get to wake up when they want. They get to eat when they want. They're able to make choices about their medical care, too. It's not like a hospital anymore. It's more like a home."
The Tradeoff
Families can expect the cost of a skilled nursing facility in Topeka to run $5,000 to $8,000 a month, depending on the level of care needed and the privacy level of each room. "It's the most expensive time in our lives, the senior years," Cory Horinek, director of marketing for Brewster Place said. However, he says, the tradeoff is that many families will find their older loved one's condition will stabilize or even improve. Chaffee agrees. "Most people will live a little longer," she said. "They will often improve greatly because they have that support. Oftentimes, they will be more independent because we're providing the care."
HOME HEALTH: Care Comes to You
Home health aides visit a certain Topeka-area home every morning and help a husband and wife get out of bed, dress for the day and get into their wheelchairs. At night, the aides return and help the couple into bed. The couple wants to grow old, together, in the home they've always known. Their story comes to mind for Marsha Kent, vice president of Clinical Services at Midland Care, when she describes the range of services available for people who want to continue living at home as they age. "If we didn't go out there twice a day and help them, they'd be in a nursing home," Kent said.
Golden Years at Home
With baby boomers facing the realities of their golden years, the demand for home health care services has skyrocketed over the past two decades. Karren Weichert, Midland Care President and CEO, says her organization has responded by creating a full continuum of care for those who desire home-based services. "It really does support dignity and helping a person stay in control of their own lives," Weichert said.
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PACE: Program of AllInclusive Care for the Elderly
To that end, the government created PACE, the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly. Midland was the second PACE site in Kansas and Presbyterian Manor just implemented the program as well. Services are provided through a contract with the state of Kansas and the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services. PACE is a comprehensive program through which enrollees have their health care needs PACE participant Mary Jo Foster and Midland Care employee Erica Sutton coordinated, as well as other personal care needs that "The goal is to keep people in their homes because that is where may need to be addressed. To they want to be." qualify, people must be 55 years of age - Marsha Kent, VP of Clinical Services for Midland Care or older and meet the state’s criteria for nursing facility care. needed dose of companionship. they want and what they need." "The intent of it is to keep people "It's just being there to listen and Kent says it is possible to meet in their home as long as possible," share time and stories," Kent said. most needs at home, but it really is Weichert said. "Sometimes, when people live alone, meant to be a part-time service that Those who are not eligible for they feel isolated. They can't get out compliments caregivers and families. PACE, or who have less-intense needs, to the grocery store and talk to the At the point that 24-hour care is may opt for Midland's Thrive at Home checker anymore. The relationships required, Kent says families will need or Home Health programs. that develop are pretty incredible." to weigh cost factors and decide if moving to a facility is a better option Thrive at Home Home Health for their situation. Thrive at Home addresses nonMidland's Home Health program medical needs with which people is for the more skilled nursing needs Adult Day Care need assistance including personal required after a hospital stay. Kent If caregivers need a short break care, running errands such as buying says these services are short term or if a family simply needs assistance groceries, doing laundry or preparing or intermittent and might include in watching an older loved one while meals. The program also has licensed wound care management, overseeing they're away at work, Midland offers staff who can assist with certain adjustments to a new medication, an Adult Day Care. medical needs such as setting up physical therapy or social work "It allows caregivers a break," pill boxes, administering monthly Weichert said. "It also allows an intervention. injections, providing non-skilled opportunity for socialization for "The goal is to keep people in their wound care and helping manage homes because that is where they people who are often isolated (and) it conditions like diabetes. want to be," Kent said. "We wrap the provides an opportunity for wellness Many times, the staff also offer a services around them based on what monitoring."
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Sometimes hospice patients and their families need a home away from home. By lifting the burden of care, we give families time with each other to share treasured stories. The House at Midland Care: • Registered nursing care 24/7 • Physicians certified in pain and symptom management • Personal care attendants, social worker and ecumenical chaplain • CHAP accredited
785.232.2044 www.midlandcare.org The community not-for-profit hospice that families have turned to for more than 30 years.
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Nancy Riddle, RN Director of Home Health Presbyterian Manor; Vi Swafford
'How do you take your bath? Do you have a shower chair? Do you have grab bars? Or do you stand up at the sink and sponge bathe because you're afraid to get in the tub?'"
Support System
End-of-Life Home Hospice Service
The continuum of services offered in the home extends through end-oflife hospice service, for which perhaps Midland is more commonly known. Weichert says 80 percent of hospice care is done in a person's own home. "We believe that you go to hospice when you're at the end of fighting the disease," Weichert said. "We're very aggressive about palliative care, about enhancing quality of life for people when they're at the end of their life."
Do Your Homework
It's important to do your homework in choosing a service. After all, the staff will have access to everything in your home and will be overseeing vital health needs. • Check that the service is licensed or certified in some way. • Check a service's record with the Better Business Bureau. • Ask for references.
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Continuum of Care
Susan Harris, options counseling program manager for the Aging and Disability Resource Center at Topeka's Jayhawk Area Agency on Aging, helps older adults and people with disabilities understand their options for care, and then connects them with resources in their communities. "We hear the concerns they're having, their needs, the difficulties they have, then we will start with the continuum of services," Harris said. The continuum of care ranges from in-home services, up through independent and assisted living, to 24hour skilled nursing care.
Safety
"Loved ones think they can do everything on their own," Harris said. "We encourage the older person to ask, 'Am I doing it safely? Is it taking me a lot longer to do something and, if it does, do I get tired easily while I'm doing it?' We'll ask questions like,
From there, Harris says, the conversation may turn to the person's support system. She says people need to consider how much family and friends are willing and able to do, whether those people are becoming overwhelmed and whether there is a backup plan for daily services that cannot be missed. "A person could get sick or have a conflict," Harris said. "If you don't have an informal support system of family, friends and church members that could provide that backup, you may have a time when you don't have a person come that day to give your bath or provide your lunch." Harris says many services provide in-home assistance for daily living tasks, such as cooking, cleaning, small errands and even bathing. More skilled services, such as medication assistance and nursing visits, she says, might lead to considering a move outside the home.
The Cost Question
Make no mistake—cost must be part of the discussion for families looking at lifestyle options. Janis DeBoer, executive director of the Kansas Association of Agencies on Aging, says many people don't realize that they will pay out-of-pocket for care and support services during retirement.
Medicare / Medicaid
Medicare provides some limited coverage for services like skilled nursing or physical therapy, but not
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for the bulk of the bill. For example, DeBoer says the state’s average Medicare payment for nursing facility care last year was $3,564 a month. HHS figures put the average monthly cost upward of $6,200. Medicaid will assist people with limited resources.
Senior Care Act
The Kansas Senior Care Act provides some money to assist senior citizens with services enabling them to stay in their homes. Harris says those funds are administered through the Agencies on Aging, setting a sliding fee scale for home services based on a person's income and assets.
Long-Term Care Insurance
Jim Hanna of Ameriprise Financial Advisors says longterm care insurance is a resource that may benefit middleclass people the most. He also says people with fewer assets may elect to spend them down to qualify for Medicaid. The financial issues should be explored when in your 50s or 60s. "Think about how you want to live and what might go wrong," Hanna said. "When you're in your home, you have property tax, upkeep, the yard, but perhaps lower overall costs if you need care. With independent and assisted living you may not have the expenses of a household, but you might face other fees.� If you do go the long-term care insurance route, Harris says, be sure you read and understand what your policy will cover.
NEEDS ASSESSMENT Check the boxes next to the tasks that you or your loved one may experience difficulty with completing. Bathing (including in/out of tub safely) Dressing or grooming (including nails, dentures, shaving) Toileting Transferring (including getting in/out of chairs, bed, etc.) Walking Eating Preparing meals Managing medications Prescription payments Medical treatments Housekeeping (including dishes, vacuuming, changing bedding) Laundry Making and accepting telephone calls
Do Your Homework
This is a big decision so don't be afraid to ask questions. In addition to in-person counseling, the Aging and Disability Resource Center offers a booklet that lists the service providers in all of the key areas. They also have a separate booklet specific to nursing facilities, including a checklist of questions to ask and what to observe on your visits.
TK
Reading Writing Shopping Running errands Transportation Fun and recreation If you checked any of these tasks, it may be time to talk with a counselor. Complete assessment available online at www.jayhawkaaa.org.
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Expanding the
Expocentre by Karen Ridder
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A BIG Ask to Keep the Expocentre Competitive for the Future The Kansas Expocentre needs a facelift, and local business leaders hope Shawnee County residents agree that a bigger, better and more modern convention center will be worth the investment. The issue may be hitting the ballot soon. Here’s why proponents are arguing for changes...
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EXPO HISTORY: The Expocentre is a staple of event business in Topeka. It hosts more than 700 events a year ranging from association conferences and trade shows to the rodeo, professional sporting events and superstar concerts. It was built on the old Shawnee County Fairgrounds in 1987 after Shawnee County voters passed a $19.7 million dollar bond issue. That money constructed the 10,000 seat Landon Arena; a 44,500 square foot exhibition hall; Maner Conference Center; and a livestock arena.
Return on Investment That investment has paid back big dollars to the community. More than 400,000 people attend events at the Expocentre each year. While
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the facility does not actually pay for itself, requiring about $1.5 million in county subsidies each year, the estimated yearly economic impact to the community is about $13 million. Many event attendees are out-oftowners who bring new dollars into the area when they attend events at the Expocentre. Business leaders also see the Expocentre as an overall asset that makes Topeka an attractive place to live and work. Doug Kinsinger, the President and CEO of the Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce and the GO Topeka Economic Partnership says the facility is a must have. “We need a major convention and events facility that will attract new dollars for our community,� Kinsinger said.
EXPO PROBLEM: For 25 years, the Expocentre has done a good job fulfilling its role in Topeka, but times have changed. Standards for events are different today than in 1987. H.R. Cook, the General Manager of the Expocentre, says the facility is starting to have a hard time keeping pace. Newer event centers and arenas have been built in Kansas that offer a wide appeal to event planners, agricultural shows and big-name concerts.
Size Constraints Some meeting planners have simply changed the way they do business. Many planners for association conferences, who generally like to have meetings in the Capital city, are now combining efforts
with other groups in order to keep costs down. This means more people at one conference, and more attendees than the Expocentre can handle. Cook sites the Kansas Hospital Association as one group that can no longer use the Expocentre because of size constraints.
Outdated Amenities Size is not the only issue. Stars of major concerts and events simply want better amenities than currently offered backstage at Landon Arena. One of the most well attended events at the Expocentre, the televised WWE, has some high-tech electronic needs that Landon Arena simply does not provide. Promoters of that show told Cook they will not be able to come back to this facility unless improvements are made. The Topeka Roadrunners have to move out of their locker-room every time a big event comes to town. The expectations of patrons have also changed in 25 years. Visitors want the wider seats and concourses available at newer arenas. They want better concessions and TV connectivity to events when they have to leave their seats. They want to be connected to the hotel space at meetings, and would prefer to not have to use the Landon Arena space for trade shows.
Aging Facility Cook says another challenge is just age. “We’re always fighting against what I call the shiny new penny,” he said. “Everybody picks up the shiny new penny.” Several new facilities across the state have opened in the last 5 to 10 years or are expected to open soon. The newest competitor, the Kansas Star Casino in Mulvane, is expected to be a big draw for current users of Expocentre space. Not only will it offer comparable facilities, but it will also have a casino, which is a hard draw to compete against. The final problem faced by the Expocentre is deferred maintenance—about $8.4 million worth. “This is not a lack of care or a neglect. It’s regular maintenance. It’s just wear and tear,” Cook said. Repairs needed to simply keep the facility in good shape include things like repaving the parking lot, replacing the roof on the livestock facility, upgrading lighting and improving signage.
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EXPO PLAN: The Kansas Expocentre has developed a strategic long-range plan to address the issues at hand. It includes a total of $60.5 million in repairs, renovations and expansions. Cook explains they have put a lot of thought into what changes would be best for Topeka. “We want to make sure what we build will take us into the future because we are only going to have one shot at this,” Cook said. Aside from the deferred maintenance, three major areas at the Expocentre have proposed changes: the Exhibition Hall/Meeting Space, Landon Arena and the Livestock facilities.
Exhibition Hall/ Meeting Space Changes to meeting spaces would include expanding the exhibition hall by 30,000 square feet. The extra
space allows for trade shows to have enough space to move off of the floor of Landon Arena, freeing it up for other events. It would also provide a connecting piece for the entire complex. Maner Conference Center would be reconfigured to allow for the Sunflower Ballroom to be subdivided.
Landon Arena The major changes proposed for the Landon Arena include changes to the concourse to widen and enhance entry and exit areas. New seating for patrons will be more comfortable and keep up with what people expect in today’s market. The plan also adds club seating and meeting rooms. It will also address the locker room problems and update the behind-the-scenes features that may keep concerts and events from using the space.
Livestock Facility The livestock facility expansion could potentially build a niche market for Topeka, drawing mid-size events. It is an area Kinsinger believes holds big potential for the Expocentre because attracting large horse competitions could draw participants from a multistate area. “There’s quite a bit in the horse industry and we want to make sure we are capturing that,” Kinsinger said. The expansion proposal includes adding two new indoor show arenas and exercise areas. It would also increase livestock capacity from around 250 stalls now to over 400 stalls.
EXPO CHALLENGE: The big question on plans for the Expocentre future is how to pay for it, and what to pay for. The Kansas Expocentre belongs to Shawnee County, which leaves the final decision Expocentre General Manager H.R. Cook
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with commissioners and voters. Shawnee County Commission Chair Shelly Buhler explains the county feels they have a responsibility to take care of the Expocentre since it is a large county-asset, but how that will happen is still up in the air. She believes all of the interested parties in the project still have some talking to do before figuring out how much of the project will be put into place. That work falls largely to the Shawnee County Commissioners because they will have the final say on the wording of any ballot issues.
In Voter's Hands Buhler points out that there are already several countywide elections scheduled in 2014. With a gubernatorial election and other offices expected to bring out voters, one of those elections might be a good time to bring up any ballot issues. While all sources for funding are still on the table, the possible extension of a half-cent economic development sales tax set to expire in 2016 is a strong contender. The sales tax, which was first approved by voters in 2004, generates approximately $15 million a year, $5 million of that goes to GO Topeka. The sales tax, administered via the Joint Economic Development Organization, has paid for economic development and a number of bridge and road projects throughout the county. Other potential funding sources would be to pay for a portion out of the general fund, find private or corporate money, or look for bond options. “I’m pretty sure a tax extension will (be put to a vote). What will be included in that extension is still undecided,” Buhler said. “That’s the biggest piece of work that we have in front of us in the next 12 months.”
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Moving Forward Cook sees the updated Expocentre as an important economic link that connects many of the good things Topeka has built in the last few years. “If you look at the Expocentre, we sit in the middle,” Cook said. “We can start connecting the dots of things that people have wanted in their visioning process.” All of the players agree that Shawnee County taxpayers need to have input on what happens to the Expocentre.
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“Anything this large is an asset of the county,” Cook said. “I believe the citizens should have a say. It has to have the support of the entire community.” Mayor Larry Wolgast, who chairs JEDO, the committee that oversees the spending of the projects paid for by the half-cent sales tax, agrees. He says that people with thoughts about programs that should be funded either at the Expocentre or throughout the community with an extension of the half-cent sales tax should get in contact with their elected officials.
“We want to have the community involved and get people thinking about this,” Wolgast said. A complete breakdown of the Kansas Expocentre Long-Range Strategic plan is available on the Expocentre’s web site at www.ksexpo. com
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2005-2016 Half-Cent Sales Tax Cashflow Totals on Projects under the Economic Development Program Financed by the Half-Cent Sales Tax (Actuals as of 7/26/13 plus the budgeted projects through 2016) Go Topeka County Bridges Service Charges
$58,750,000
$18,000,000
$38,531 Topeka Blvd Bridge
Wanamaker Road Improvements N. Topeka 46th Street SE 45th Street Croco Road
SW 29th Street
$11,579,619
$2,814,939 $11,365,104
$8,142,014
SW 21st Street
$36,239,238
$11,843,916
Proposed Expocentre Renovations
$62,000,000
$10,660,597
GO Topeka Use of Funds
(2008 - 2012)
Incentive/Sites/Business Retention $19,200,817 61% New Business Attraction $5,220,5590 16% Special Initiatives $292,421 1% Workforce Development $1,660,067 5% Research and Governmental Relations $743,346 2% Entrepreneurial & Minority Business Development $2,976,324 9% Heartland Visioning $490,000 2% General and Administrative $1,184,173 4%
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e h ft
o t r a e
h
r u
ntreprene E sweet Science the
Martha Piland // MB Piland by Rick LeJuerrne
The sport of boxing is known as the “sweet science.� To the casual observer, boxing can be a brutal sport where the sole objective is to beat your opponent to a pulp, but below the surface there is so much going on tactically and strategically between the combatants that boxing is much more like chess than a bar room brawl. It is elemental, simple yet complex. For the entrepreneur, marketing is the sweet science. It is the magic that makes everything go. It is the most important skillset of the entrepreneur. And just like the great fighters, great entrepreneurs make it look easy. Their businesses work. Sales are made. Customers are happy. But what looks simple on the surface is not; it is often the result of a combination of a hundred different little actions executed carefully by the entrepreneur. No one has mastered the marketing skillset, the sweet science, quite like Martha Bartlett Piland. Fifteen years ago she started MB Piland Advertising & Marketing and since that time she has built a successful business out of sharing the tactics and strategies that entrepreneurs need to know. Recently, I sat down with Martha to discuss what it takes.
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RICK: Do you remember when you first got the idea to start MB Piland? MARTHA: Gary (Martha’s husband) and I were in a restaurant in Chicago. I had been mulling over the idea. I was working in a corporate marketing position at that time and I was really missing the chaos and energy of the agency business. We were having dinner and I was daydreaming out loud, “wouldn’t it be cool if I could start my own agency.” Gary said, “Why don’t you? There is no reason you can’t do that.“ That was my light bulb moment. I thought, “I can do this.” RICK: What did you do next? MARTHA: At that point, I started researching and wrote my business plan. Then I gave my notice to my boss, quit my job, and started. I remember that time very clearly. I didn’t have any clients when I started. A lot of times a new ad agency starts when someone leaves the agency where they’re employed and takes a client with them. I started from scratch. I had my home office, my computer, my brand that I worked up, and I just started. RICK: One of the attributes of entrepreneurs that make them different is their ability to deal with uncertainty. Starting out with no clients, it doesn’t get anymore uncertain than that… MARTHA: In the early days, I was just calling people and taking them to lunch, telling them what I was doing, and using my network to get the word out. I remember some days thinking, “What have I done? Was this a big mistake? Is this going to be okay?”
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RICK: Did you have a contingency plan? MARTHA: No, it was going to work! I had my plan but it didn’t say, “I’ve got this many months to make it.” I assumed that we would be a viable product. RICK: Do you remember the moment you knew you were going to make it? MARTHA: I remember I had a major pitch to the Kansas Department of Commerce really early on, for tourism. We made the top two in the cut. We didn’t get the account. But to me that was huge, because the client had been around, they had worked with agencies before. For us to have made it that far… And the agency that won the job was really good. It was great credibility for us, good external validation.
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RICK: What is your secret for “Working on your business, not just in it?” MARTHA: I think you plan your work and work your plan. You have to do that. You have to be focused. And you have to be self-disciplined. I don’t think there are any lazy entrepreneurs. You can’t be. It is too easy to get sidetracked and waste time doing the fun stuff and let the hard stuff languish. I try to do the hard stuff first.
Heart of the Entrepreneur Lessons Learned 1. Starting and growing a small business without spousal support is extremely difficult if not impossible. Make sure you both understand what it is going to take to be successful and that there will be sacrifices along the way. 2. Martha said it best – plan your work and work your plan. But be flexible. It never turns out exactly like you planned it. 3. There are no lazy entrepreneurs. It takes focus and self-discipline. 4. Sharpen your steak knives. You are going to need them. Not sure what this means? Read the article! 5. Do your employees share your purpose and passion for the brand? That is the first step to aligning your internal and external brand. Doing so will grow company sales measurably.
RICK: Do entrepreneurs get enough credit? MARTHA: Yes and no. If someone hasn’t been a business owner, they can’t really know what it is like. How much you pay in taxes when you’re self-employed. All of the administrative tasks you have to do. What it feels like to lose a major client. I think about the entrepreneur who gets up every day through the good and bad. It can be hard. It is difficult to appreciate, but do people respect entrepreneurs? I think they do. RICK: What is the toughest part of being an entrepreneur? MARTHA: The toughest part is also the best part, and that is, it rides on you. I am fortunate to have a great team around me, really stellar people, but still, ultimately what we do are my decisions. I can screw it up or do it well. I either have the rewards or the painful results. So sometimes that can be tremendous pressure. RICK: Can you believe it has been 15 years? MARTHA: In some ways it feels like more than 15 years and in some ways it feels like a lot less. I think about my abilities and what I knew then and I feel like I have grown tremendously. Fifteen years ago the idea of cold-calling someone was intimidating. Obviously, I did it, but it was mentally hard work for me. Now it is kind of fun. RICK: Anything else you can share about being an entrepreneur? MARTHA: A friend recently sent me a note with a quote on it that I thought was appropriate for entrepreneurs, “Life without risk isn’t an adventure, it is a shame.” I like that, it suites me. The risk and uncertainty can be scary, but the adventure—the reward—is well worth it… TK
Rick LeJuerrne
RICK: What does it mean to be entrepreneurial? MARTHA: I think people can be entrepreneurial whether they are in business for themselves or not. It is a way of thinking about looking for new opportunities and ways to grow your business or the enterprise you are working in and acting on those with vigor, intention, strategy, and purpose. I also think being an entrepreneur is a lot like climbing a mountain with two dull steak knives. It’s by your own force of mental toughness and will that you are going to get to the next height.
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Entrepreneur and attorney at law Flow Capital, LLC
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[from the professor]
HEALTh-CARE
RECENT DEVELOPMENTS AND TRENDS
The new legislation does not address entirely underlying causes of rising U.S. health care costs.
In this article, we will provide our perspectives on recent changes in U.S. health-care and emerging trends, including: possible modifications in health-care plans, health-care costs, and changes in employees’ health-care responsibilities.
DEVELOPMENTS IN HEALTH CARE AND HEALTH INSURANCE In 2010, U.S. Census Bureau reported that 49.9 million residents did not have health insurance. As illustrated in Figure 1, over the first decade of this century, the number of Americans with employer-sponsored health coverage fell from 170.5 million (69.7 percent) to 159 million. According to a study published in HR Magazine, the cause of this decrease is two-fold: fewer private sector employers offered coverage and fewer employees took advantage of employer-sponsored coverage.
Controversy by Liviu Florea and Sorin Valcea, Washburn University School of Business The authors express their gratitude to Dr. Michael Atwood, Vice-President Medical Affairs & Chief Medical Officer and Mr. Matt All, Senior Vice-President and General Counsel, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas for the helpful comments and insightful suggestions.
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New health care legislation, 2010 Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act has been marked by controversy. The new legislation, the largest change in U.S. health care since the introduction of Medicare in 1965, facilitates health insurance coverage and proposes to make health insurance more affordable.
Starting in 2015, employers with at least 50 full-time employees that do not offer coverage face a penalty of $2,000 times the total number of fulltime employees, excluding the first 30 employees. Full time employees are defined in the law as employees who average at least 30 hours per week. Employees with household income between 100 and 400 percent of the federal poverty level (currently $23,550 for a family of four) are eligible for tax credits if they don’t have access to affordable employersponsored coverage. According to the law, the coverage is not affordable if employees are asked to contribute 9.5 percent or more of their income to health insurance premiums. New legislation will increase the number of people with health insurance through different provisions, including: · Individual mandate, representing the requirement that all citizens have health insurance · Federally-subsidized private coverage · Potential expansion of medicaid According to different projections, the number of uninsured people will drop to 23-30 million in 2019. While it greatly expands federal authority over health insurance, the new health
employees. They are considering the implementation of health plans such as consumer-driven plans, higher-deductible, Employer-provided health-insurance low-coverage plans, and coverage between 2000 and 2011 reference-based pricing. C onsumer-driven health plans supply a lump sum for health benefits and let consumers pick their plan in the market. These plans are characterized by lower premiums, but higher deductibles and higher co-payments may Source: HR Magazine, June 2013 become more common than traditional high-end health insurance plans. The main concern is that the new In addition to providing tax legislation does not address entirely advantages, consumer-driven health underlying causes of rising U.S. insurance plans may increase personal health-care costs, which include: accountability among consumers · Aging population. when purchasing medical services. · Increased demand from Nonetheless, a by-product of the consumers. penalties on high-end health care · Introduction of technology that plans may be employers’ tendency to significantly improves quality but scale back health benefits and control does not bring down costs. health care costs. · Treating illnesses at an advanced As summarized by Cynthia stage because many people are not Weidner from the benefits consultant insured or underinsured. firm HighRoads, “the consumer · Rewarding providers of healthshould continue to expect that their care services for the volume rather plan is going to be more expensive, than the quality of services. and they will have fewer benefits.” Some employers with low-wage The law will cut funding for employees may limit employees’ hours safety-net hospitals, impose taxes on and offer limited health plans, in order medical device companies and health to avoid coverage requirements and care businesses, and tax individuals penalties under the federal health who don’t buy coverage. law. Low-coverage plans, referred to as “bare-bones health plans” can WHAT WE MAY EXPERIENCE IN THE FUTURE lack benefits such as hospital or Change in Plans surgery coverage and focus instead on Health insurance plans may preventive services and doctor visits. change. Some employers are actively Alternatively, insurers may searching to curb health-care offer small businesses the option spending and keep health-care costs to switch to self-insurance that has under control, while still offering the been traditionally offered by large highly-valued health benefits to their legislation gives flexibility to states for its implementation.
businesses and will face fewer changes under the federal health law. However, Department of Health and Human Services officials doubt the success of such strategies, pointing to the lack of evidence of their widespread implementation. Alternatively, insurers such as Aetna and WellPoint plan to implement reference-based pricing plans in which the employer pays only a set amount for a medical service, while employees who select costlier services pay the difference. Costs of Health-Care How health-care is purchased and how employees pay are likely to change. The new law will impact how health care coverage is purchased. As emphasized by the University of Chicago economist, Casey Mulligan, while well-paid employees are likely to keep their employer-provided health insurance, small businesses with as many as 100 employees and lowerpaid employees who are not offered affordable insurance through their employers will be shifted to health insurance exchanges that would be set up by each state or federal officials. The new health legislation requires health insurance exchanges to cover everybody, irrespective of their age or health condition, at regulated prices, often with government subsidies. The new legislation allows each state to set two exchanges: one for individuals and one for small businesses. The health insurance exchanges are expected to help consumers compare insurance plans, options and costs. Employers who continue to offer health care coverage are expected to participate in or open a health insurance exchange. Meanwhile, insurance carriers may limit provider networks and expand health-insurance coverage.
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Under the new legislation, premiums are expected to rise for small-group plans because of increased cost of medical services and a requirement that 10 essential areas be covered, including maternity care, substance abuse and mental-health services and prescription-drug coverage, which aren’t standard for all such policies today. Insurance carriers may try to control premiums by shrinking the number of providers based on the criteria of cost or quality. Change in Responsibilities Employees should prepare for significant changes in their healthcare responsibilities: An important characteristic of the health-insurance system is adverse selection, according to which there is an expectation that younger and/or healthier may subsidize older and/or sicker people. The new health care legislation is also expected to raise premiums for some employees, mostly younger, healthy employees, and small businesses that hire them. Emphasizing their selfinterest, some people may be reluctant to enroll in the health insurance system and subsidize others. With fewer people paying premiums, the health insurance costs would increase for everyone. Additionally, areas in which significant changes are expected and that are likely to require everyone’s attention include: enhanced personal choices and accountability, larger impact of wellness benefits, and application of creative health initiatives. Insurance carriers are set to release price estimators and price comparisons tools and compete against each other in the new health insurance exchanges. Therefore, insurance carriers are likely to
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emphasize attracting as many customers as possible, even at the cost of charging lower premiums. As a result of increased competition, price transparency and ability of insured individuals to make comparative shopping, insured individuals will have more discretion in making health-care choices. Most likely, insured individuals will be more engaged about their health and pay more attention to health costs.
quality lives, these initiatives are not a panacea to health-care problems. The real challenges for increasing the health impact and effectiveness are the continuity of health-care and involvement of quasi-totality of employees in the wellness programs. Most employers report rates of participation that are lower than 8085 percent of their employees. Not surprisingly, the 15-20 percent of the employees who do not participate in wellness programs accounts for the majority of the employer’s overall health costs. The success of any employee wellness program may depend on the capacity to attract in the program all employees and
Wellness Benefits To reduce health-care costs and help employees live a healthier lifestyle, employers may implement wellness benefits. Many employers have tried a variety of health initiatives, Employer-provided wellness benefits experimenting with between 2008 and 2013 an array of wellness programs, setting up their own work-site clinics, and incentivizing their employees to take a pro-active stance. Employers, such as CVS pharmacy and Topeka Public Schools Unified Source: SHRM Employee Benefits survey report, 2013 School District 501, link premiums to wellness especially those employees who need factors, such as requiring employees most preventive health care. to receive health screenings or face an To the degree to which the return additional amount on their monthly from employee wellness programs health insurance premiums. and other preventive activities will According to SHRM’s 2013 not be significant, the health-careEmployee Benefit Survey report 64 industry will likely focus more on percent of employers reported offering providing health-care services in a a wellness program. The same report, cost-effective manner and addressing summarized in Figure 2, found that health-care needs of underserved the percentage of employers that people in underserved geographic provide wellness-related benefits has areas through measures designed to increased significantly over the last enhance quality and availability of five years. primary health-care providers. While preventive health-care TK initiatives such as employee-wellness programs help people live healthier,
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Fostering Excellence in the Topeka Community by Thomas Underwood
LEAN:
a production practice that assists in the identification and steady elimination of waste; preserving value with less work; term first coined by John Krafcik in 1988.
SIX SIGMA:
fact-based, data-driven techniques and strategies that seek to improve the quality of process outputs by identifying and removing the causes of defects and minimizing variability in manufacturing and business processes; developed by Motorola in 1985.
LEAN SIX SIGMA: a managerial
concept combining Lean and Six Sigma that results in the elimination of seven kinds of waste: transportation, inventory, motion, waiting, overproduction, over-processing and defects.
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Lean Six Sigma is a structured and systematic approach for organizational improvement whose focus is on customer satisfaction and organizational sustainability--thereby enhancing employee morale, product quality and profit. More than 50 organizations and 2,000 participants have participated in one or more of the Lean Six Sigma courses offered by Washburn University Academic Outreach in partnership with the Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce/GO Topeka. To what extent has the Lean Six Sigma program been successful in fostering excellence? We asked representatives from local organizations how Lean Six Sigma has affected their business.
Payless Shoe Source Al Frost, Director of Learning and Development “Lean Six Sigma has made a tremendous impact at Payless over the last five years, and we’ve trained over 1,100 associates. It has enabled us to have a common language around project management, a focus on “Voice of the Customer,” and a better quantitative and financial focus. Many associates were initially concerned that the Lean Six Sigma process would take too much time. We
were able to overcome this by showing outcomes. Our leaders published several highly successful results, which reflected savings of over $18 million from 2009 to 2012. A specific example of a Lean Six Sigma project is the new Performance Management system. The average number of help desk requests went from 90 each day to about one, and we were able to remove 12 steps from the former approach. A pulse survey indicated a statistically significant 10 percent increase in satisfaction.”
Veterans Administration Health Resource Center K. Mitch Baker, Associate Director Customer Experience “The Health Resource Center (HRC) is a national contact management center serving our Veterans throughout the United States. HRC, which employs more than 750 employees in Topeka, Kansas and Waco, Texas, has been actively applying Lean Six Sigma principals to organizational processes for the past four years. HRC’s culture is transforming from a “fix-it-factory” to a “center of excellence” where our goals have shifted from short-term wins to long-term sustainability. Since HRC is a government agency that does not generate revenue, one
LSS challenge is showing a monetary return on investment. However, HRC has overcome this challenge by identifying and capturing cost avoidance, cost savings and improved quality of services to our nation’s Veterans. Through LSS, HRC identified a key process with high costs. HRC defined the opportunity for improvement, measured the actual performance, and engaged front-line staff in analyzing why HRC talk time was so long. Possible solutions were then identified and tested prior to implementation. The outcome? HRC customers wanted to talk to a live person in less than 30 seconds and they demanded precise, accurate information delivered as quickly as possible. HRC delivered on every customer requirement and increased quality of service – measured through customer surveys. HRC has sustained this improvement for nearly two years.”
Valentine, Zimmerman & Zimmerman, P.A. Angel Zimmerman, Managing Partner “Valentine, Zimmerman & Zimmerman, P.A. used elements of Lean Six Sigma in the move of the law firm in the fall of 2012. Planning a move is always difficult when you have been at the same location for 17 years and Lean Six Sigma helped make it a smoother transition. It is being used again in the transition phase of Tom Valentine's retirement and the firm change to Zimmerman & Zimmerman, P.A. Employees have used process flow maps to help with consistency in cross training. Lean has been used to see where cuts can be made and efficiencies in process tightened up. The greatest benefit to small businesses is that if the person who wants to implement Lean Six Sigma is the owner then getting top down buy in is easy, where it is a challenge for small businesses is the ability to step back and take the necessary planning and training time.”
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For further information about any of the professional development programs, consultation, or other initiatives offered by the Center for Organizational Excellence, contact Dr. Thomas Underwood, Assistant Dean of Academic Outreach at Washburn University: (785) 670-1399, thomas.underwood@washburn.edu.
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Z HOUSE
OF COFFEEZ a
story by Melissa Brunner
Back in the 1930s to 1950s, Larry Yingling's family ran a little cafe in North Topeka, along with their gas station and garage. A young lady named Peggy began working as a waitress and, before long, she and Larry fell in love and became partners in work and life. Little did they know their love story would get a modern retelling by their grandson, Brady Yingling, and his high school sweetheart, Nichole.
Z The Proposal Y
When Brady graduated from Seaman High School in 2000, he went to work for his uncle Brian at the Yingling’s Auto Service Center. When Nichole graduated from Seaman in 2002, she started working at a local credit union. Both were also full-time students at Washburn University, Brady majoring in business and Nichole studying to become a teacher. Brady began talking with his uncle about what could be done with a portion of the Yingling's building that had been vacant for quite some time. One day, out of the blue, he called Nichole and asked, "Do you want to start a coffee shop?" Nichole and Brady Yingling
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Perhaps it was the idealism that comes with young love, but Nichole said "yes" to the proposal, and Nib's House of Coffee was born.
"We didn't know what we were doing, we just really wanted to do something on our own and this was it," Nichole said. "A few people were negative about it, but that was motivation. We were like, 'We'll show you!'" Nichole was 19 years old; Brady was 21. They went to a state office and got a packet on what paperwork was needed, then, in Spring 2003, put on a pot of coffee. What would go with the coffee? Well, it was the height of the Krispy Kreme doughnut craze. "We'd drive to Lawrence every morning, leave at 3:30 a.m., to pick up doughnuts," Nichole said. "I would stand along North Topeka Boulevard and we'd sell dozens of doughnuts off the streets, then I had a flyer taped up to show people we were a coffee shop."
Z The Honeymoon Period Y
Slowly, the couple built up a core of regular customers. Nichole says it was a blessing it was so slow at first, admitting the couple made a lot of mistakes. "Six months into it, we realized how hard it was going to be," she said. "There was a lot to it; it was a lot of hours; we didn't know anything. We didn't have any help. We learned it the hard way." Nichole switched her major to business with emphasis in accounting; Brady's was finance and management.
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"We were hoping between the two of us, we'd have a well-rounded education," she said. Brady was continuing part-time work at Yingling's and had started a lawn care business, Lawn Tech. Nichole eventually took a semester off school to devote time to getting the coffee shop business on solid ground. "It took three years before we started to figure out what we were going to be," she said. "We saw the finances. Our first business plan of just selling coffee didn't work; we had to grow. We realized, in North Topeka, we had to be more than a coffee shop. We had to be a cafe." They added sandwiches to the menu and wedding rings to their fingers. Nichole and Brady married in 2005. "We closed for two days around the wedding and we put up a sign that said, 'Join Us,'" Nichole recalls. “We had so many customers and regulars come our wedding. They brought us gifts and danced with us. It was really sweet."
Z The Break Up Y
But then, as often does, life happened. Nichole and Brady welcomed their first daughter, Kenadie, into the world. Brady had grown Lawn Tech into a thriving business. In addition to overseeing Nib's, Nichole was using her accounting knowledge to assist with the bookkeeping for the lawn care side of the family finances. Juggling the business responsibilities with the stresses of first-time motherhood made them willing to listen when one of their lawn customers, the owners of Juice Stop in Lawrence, approached them about buying Nib's. "It was hard because we had (Kenadie) and I knew how much time
I had to spend down here (at the coffee shop) and thought, 'That's really not fair,'" Nichole said. "I felt like I was letting my customers down. I cried. It was a very tough decision, but it was the right decision. It was for the family."
Z The Reunion Y
Nichole never totally retired. She stayed home, raising Kenadie, while assisting Brady with the business end of Lawn Tech. A few years later, their second daughter, Hope, arrived. That’s when they heard the news— the coffee shop, their coffee shop, was on the market and, if a buyer couldn’t be found, it would likely close.
“I was not going to let this little place be closed and not exist anymore,” Nichole said. “I had spent those first seven years (building it) and I knew it was a great little place. And, I knew North Topeka needs a nice little place.” Hope was six months old when Nichole and Brady officially retook control of Nib’s House of Coffee at 2525 NW Topeka Boulevard last spring, the same age Kenadie was when they decided to sell it. But this time, with experience on their side, they knew they could make it work.
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HELPING YOU PUT
YOUR BUSINESS
ST
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The Topeka/Shawnee County First Opportunity Fund is a program that can help you: Qualify for a micro loan up to $10,000 Receive consultation and counseling on your operations Get connected to additional resources to help your business grow and thrive! It’s for any Shawnee County business that meets any one of the following criteria: Business is owned by low-income person Business is located in an economically distressed area Business will employ low-income individuals Services are confidential, professional and you maintain control of all business decisions. READY TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS? TAKE THE FIRST STEP TODAY.
Call Cyndi Hermocillo-Legg at 785.231.6000 Or email clegg@GoTopeka.com
Entrepreneurial & Minority Business Development
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[stepping up to leadership]
{en}Visioning the
Future by Rich Drinon, M.A.
The practice of visioning, including writing a vision statement, can help your organization create the future by design, rather than by default. Visioning provides a target for the leader, followers and other constituents. If done effectively, the resulting vision statement includes input from stakeholders as it pertains to the future of the organization.
Developing a Vision Statement
Rich Drinon, M.A. Drinon & Associates, President He has 25 years experience as an executive communication speaker, trainer, coach and facilitator.
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A vision statement is a declaration of what your organization will do in the future. Developing the statement is a collaborative effort that creates a collective picture of a shared future. The vision provides a target at which you take aim and then make plans to reach. Although the vision statement represents a future destination for the organization, the document is stated in the present tense as though already achieved. The subconscious mind recognizes and responds more readily to the here and now than to some distant “will be” time. If the group decides: “Someday we will be the top company in our
industry” the subconscious mind might respond by saying: “Fine, tell me when that someday comes.” If, instead, participants state, “We are the top company in our industry,” the subconscious goes to work creating that reality.
Conducting a Visioning Session The visioning session should include the leader, facilitator, selected followers and any other parties who may be considered instrumental in the visioning process. Set aside enough time, usually a half to full day, for a visioning meeting. Utilize a setting that is conducive to relaxation and creative thinking and free of interruptions.
Oil Painters of America 2013 Western Regional Exhibition Sept. 6 - Oct. 26
Ann T. Hardy, OPA, Samovar and Reflective Cup, 16x20 Deb Kaylor, On the Corner, 24x30
Cally Krallman, Splendor in the West, 20x24
Oil Painters of America (OPA) is known as one of the most prestigious arts organizations in North America with 3,400 members and a reputation for assembling some of the finest exhibits of representational oil paintings in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. Each year, OPA schedules three major juried shows — Western Regional, Eastern Regional and National — and presents awards totaling over $100,000 to winning artists.
Bryce Cameron Liston, An Aura of Fragrances, 28x22
SouthWind Gallery is the exclusive host for the Oil Painters of America 2013 Western Regional Exhibition
www.SouthWindArtGallery.com
3074 SW 29th Street • Topeka, Kansas 66614 • 785-273-5994 888.206.5994 • Info@SouthWindArtGallery.com
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During the visioning session participants will want to address several important items, including:
Changing Paradigms A paradigm is the current point of view by which an organization or individual operates. Any current point of view will usually peak in usefulness and then decline in value and eventually become outdated. A current mindset usually needs to be revised or replaced in changing times. To be successful in any endeavor, you must recognize what worked yesterday might not work today. You will have to change, adapt and update your modes of operation to stay viable in today’s world. If not, you run the risk of becoming a dinosaur or worse, of extinction.
Improved Operating Models Being exposed to new and better models often causes a paradigm shift. This exposure to the new and better gives you or your staff a view of how
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things could be done differently. Your efforts to seize on improved operating models can bring fresh approaches to getting things done, while changing your ideas about how the world works and giving you new viewpoints complete with working parts.
debating the pros and cons of the current reality and what to actually do next. Actively learning organizations perpetually stay open to new ideas, make new choices and make decisions that allow them to move forward in new ways.
An Actively Learning Organization
A Collective Vision
When you inspire and encourage your followers to be active learners, they are more likely to anticipate change, remain open to change and watch the horizon for improved ways of doing things. You don’t want to pursue change for the sake of change, but you do want to read the writing on the wall and watch the horizon for what comes next.
Dialog AND Discussion Participants in a learning organization engage in both dialog and discussion regarding change. Dialog involves the open consideration and contemplation of ideas and possibilities. Discussion includes
During a successful visioning process, a collective picture emerges from different individual views. A skilled facilitator can help participants voice their views on the organization’s products, services, operations, market, customers, investors, board, leadership, membership, technology and many other factors. The facilitator can, from that information, help participants weave a shared vision for the future of the organization.
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[extra, extra!] $10k
Grant awarded to Stormont-Vail Foundation from the March of Dimes to enhance programming that reduces premature births.
#47
jones huyett Partners ranks #47 of 100 in Ingram's Corporate Report 100 of fastest growing companies in the Kansas City region.
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Coldwell Banker had 155 agents make the list of America’s Top 1000 residential real estate agents based on 2012 performance.
Go Red for Women Luncheon Marks 10Year Anniversary Topeka’s annual Go Red for Women event, that aims to raise awareness that heart disease is the number one cause of death for women, will be held Dec. 6 from 11:00 to 1:30. The luncheon will bring 400 women together in Topeka for a heart healthy lunch, a presentation by keynote speaker JoAnne Owens-Nausler, Ed.D. and the “Purse-onalities” silent auction featuring purses filled with various items donated by local women. Tickets are $45 and all funds raised will go to women’s cardiovascular research in Kansas
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Armstrong Named NSPE Fellow The National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE) Board of Directors selected Brian Armstrong, P.E. F. NSPE, unit operations manager in Bartlett & West’s Public Works Division, as a Fellow. Armstrong was among 17 engineers from across the nation selected for this honor in 2013.
New Program at Topeka Presbyterian Manor Bridges Gap in Medical Care Topeka Presbyterian Manor introduces its new Post-Acute To Home (PATH) program. PATH helps seniors by providing a place for them to transition from hospital to home and provides a variety of services, including physical, speech and occupational therapy; orthopedic and neurological rehabilitation; cardiac recovery and post-surgical care. These services help individuals regain their functionality, and in many cases, allow them to return to their previous lifestyle
Bloomerang Joins Westboro’s Creative District Building on the creativity and neighborhood pride that can already be found in the shops in Westboro, Carol Bradbury will open Bloomerang Studios this month at 3127 SW Huntoon St. Topeka, KS 66604. With approximately 15 tenants, the Westboro Creative District houses an eclectic mix of creative businesses.
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Talk Business think
Topeka Masonic Center
e v a H n a C u o Y It ALL!
Meetings n Seminars n Conferences Banquets n Special Events n Ceremonies Training Sessions n Retreats
785-783-7720 2300 SW 30th, Topeka, KS kellyl@topekamasoniccenter.com www.topekamasoniccenter.com www.facebook.com/TopekaMasonicCenter TK...Topeka's Business Magazine
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[extra, extra!] Westar Energy Foundation Helps Kids Fight Cancer
Washburn Law Alumni Association Honors Seven with Awards
Westar Energy Foundation gave more than $10,000 to enhance the exam and treatment rooms at Stormont Vail Cancer Center so that children may be treated and heal more comfortably. This project transformed a portion of the Cancer Center from an adult-oriented treatment center to include an area that is a child/young-adult oriented treatment and healing center including:
The following individuals were honored at the Washburn Law Alumni Association's annual awards luncheon on Friday, June 21, 2013: The Honorable C. William “Bill” Ossmann—Distinguished Service Award. Professor Gregory J. Pease—Honorary Life Member Award Nola Tedesco Foulston—Lifetime Achievement Award Dr. Max M. Halley—Lifetime Achievement Award Mark V. Heitz—Lifetime Achievement Award Congressman Dennis W. Moore—Lifetime Achievement Award Ronald E. Wurtz—Lifetime Achievement Award
• Video gaming system • Two exam and one treatment room updates • Children and young adult bibliothearpy library
Brewster Place Wins Award The State of Kansas recently honored Brewster Place with a PEAK award for their approach in helping residents "get the most out of life.” PEAK stands for Promoting Excellence Alternatives in Kansas. To qualify, a facility must meet four core requirements for an extended period of time: 1. Staff empowerment 2. Giving residents choice 3. Creating a homelike environment 4. Ensuring residents have a meaningful life
Visit Topeka Inc. Announces New CEO Visit Topeka Inc. welcomes new president and CEO Terry Cook. Cook served as executive director of the Harrison Convention and Visitors Bureau in Harrison, Arkansas since October 2004. Before running the Harrison Convention and Visitors Bureau, Cook served as director of sales and marketing for the Best Western Inn of the Ozarks in Eureka Springs, Arkansas from 2001 to 2004, and as president and CEO of the Eureka Springs Chamber of Commerce, from 1999 to 2001.
Topekan Honored at Big Brothers Big Sisters of America National Conference Topeka Native, Pat Ferrell, son of Dean and Pam Ferrell, is this year’s national Big Brother of the Year. Big Brothers Big Sisters of America selects the winner from hundreds of submissions from the mentoring network’s 340 local agencies across the country.
Nobility Construction Welcomes New Team Members Paul Brown and Chris Thompson have joined the Nobility Construction Team. They bring extensive knowledge in medal buildings, framing and concrete.
Also available at 900 N. Ks Ave
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[scene about town] First Friday Art Walk NOTO Arts District August 2, 2013
[Patti Torrence, Shannon Bannerman, Jenny Torrence, Chris Page: Serendipity]
[Lea Heryford, Hope Myers, Elaine Spencer: The Eclective]
[Megan Rogers; Megan Rogers Photographie: Ross Williams, Musician]
[Stella Penry & Sandra Fountaine: Generations Antiques Collectibles]
[Tiffany Robben & Karen Robben: Vintage Vibe] 66 66
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[Linda Rife & Lisa Cusick: Two Days Monthly Market]
[Jandi Burkett: Metalsmith Jewelry Artist]
ILLUMINATE
414 se second street | topeka 66607 232.8008 | www.warehouse414.com
T, TR, F, SAT: 11a - 5:30 p by chance or by appointment
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[scene about town] Topeka Independent Business Association Golf Tournament Shawnee Country Club // GreatLife Golf & Fitness July 25, 2013
[David and Colleen Lippe: MACI; and Steve Waugh]
[Bob Evenson: RW Evenson; Roy McCoy; Tim Harrington: Cartridge King of Kansas; Andy Wunder: Wunder Works Construction]
[ Jordan Ochsner, Tony Ochsner, Kevin O'mara, and Ty Hysten: Century Health Solutions]
[Sara Schulz, Kevin Curry, Kevin Payne, Ryan Garrison, Ben Coates, and Shandra Ragsdale: Coventry Health Care]
[Ron Rindt, Rick Farrant, Brett Broxterman, and Gary Farrant: GreatLife Golf & Fitness]
[Chad Redeker, Teresa Brown, Marcia Stecklein, and Carl Noyes: Aldersgate Village] TK...Topeka's Business Magazine
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[scene about town] Topeka Active 20-30 Children's Benefit Auction & Gala Ramada Convention Center August 10, 2013
[Scott & Barbara Hughes and Shannon & Matt Bergmann]
[Timothy & Melissa Gateley and Sheri & Joshua Gateley]
[Jared Richert, Brett Klausman Kevin Holland, and Braden Dimick]
[Phil Jones, Paige Ward, Kathy & Mark Ward, Rachel Thornburgh and Mark Ward II ]
[David & Danielle Byers and Jessica & Nathan Miles] 70
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[Darren & Laura Brennan and Ashley & Karl Earnest ]
[Bret & Beth Spangler and Jenny & Brian Lang]
#7
EASY TIP One of the easiest ways to reduce sodium in cooking is with ingredients like spices, dried and fresh herbs, roots (such as garlic and ginger), citrus, vinegars and wine. From black pepper, cinnamon and turmeric to fresh basil, chile peppers and lemon juice, these flavor enhancers spice up the palate with less sodium.
SPOT THE SALT SPOTTHESALT.COM
SIMPLE WAYS TO REDUCE SODIUM
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New Location. Same Dedication.
St. Francis Health Family Medicine is Now Open in Lake Shawnee.
A Mission Woods
C Jewell
B Hunter’s Ridge
D Lake Shawnee
2835 SW Mission Woods Rd. 271-1818 4646 NW Fielding Rd. 286-4475
600 SW Jewell Ave. 295-5310 (Now Open) 3310 SE 29th St. 270-7444
To find a physician or schedule an appointment, call 888-365-0440.
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E Brewster Place
(Opening Early 2014) 1101 SW 29th St.