winter 2014
TK Business Magazine
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Winter 2014
TK Business Magazine
WINTER 2014
CONTENTS
FEATURES ► PG 6
Innovation
The innovative strategy leading Kansas Medical Clinic. ► PG 8
Kid Biz
Businesses in Topeka talk about the challenges and rewards of having a business that appeals to kids. ► PG 14
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Retailers Want Wanamaker
Crossroads Commons's simple equation for development success. ► PG 18
What Is True Leadership?
Michael Hooper shares his lessons from the trenches. ► PG 21
Topeka's Top 20 Under 40
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Meet the Jayhawk Area Council Boy Scouts' 2014 Honorees. ► PG 48
Multi-Generational Workforce
A greater understanding of the generational differences in the workforce will build better working relationships. ► PG 62
Heart of the Entrepreneur
Get to know the woman behind the coffee at Juli's Coffee and Bistro.
IN EVERY ISSUE ► PG 4
Extra Extra
Business news from around the Capital City. ► PG 53
TK Business Experts
6 Retraction from the Fall 2014 Issue of TK Business Magazine Our apologies to Dr. Paul Byrne. A closing paragraph that wasn't part of the submitted article Funding Economic Development was added during the editing process but was not removed prior to printing.
Local experts provide valuable information on issues that affect you and your business. ► PG 64
Scene About Town Who’s who at local business events. ► PG 70
Last Word: Keith Warta
Bartlett & West President shares his outlook on business and life. winter 2014
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Extra Extra Women’s Initiative Award Winners
The Entrepreneurial and Minority Business Development Council names Women’s Initiative Award Winners: ▶ Mentorship Award: Cindy Barry, Washburn University Foundation ▶ Woman of Achievement Award: Amanda Kiefer, FHLBank Topeka ▶ Education Award: Joanna Lassley, Helen Hocker Theater ▶ Community Service Award: Glenda DuBoise, Marian Clinic ▶ Rising Star Award: Sarah Fizell, ARTSConnect ▶ Outstanding Entrepreneur: Diana Ramirez, Express Employment Professionals of Topeka & Emporia
Grant Awarded |
The Stormont-Vail Foundation has been awarded a grant of $50,250 from the Capitol Federal® Foundation for a bar code system in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Sneden Joins Chamber Staff | Curtis S. Sneden will assume the role of Chamber vice president government relations. Sneden most recently served in the Payless ShoeSource Law Department as Counsel supporting Retail and International. Valeo Unveils New Regional Crisis Center | The new regional center specializing in mental health emergency care will provide support for the overburdened health and law enforcement systems, while providing appropriate care to people in a mental health crisis. MRH Insurance Expanding Offices | Bob Gunther has been promoted to Central Region Producer with MRH Insurance Group and will be opening a new branch office in Lincoln, Nebraska. 20 Years at KFR | Todd Zimlich celebrates 20 years of service at Kansas Financial Resources. 37 Years at Gage Dental Group | Congratulations to Katrina Anderson for 37 years at Gage Dental Group.
Local Businesses Receive Awards ▶ EHS Today names Westar Energy one of the safest companies in America. ▶ Tallgrass Surgical Center has been awarded the National APEX Quality Award for Healthcare Excellence by Voyance for the second year. ▶ Century Business Technologies Recognized as a Top 100 technology organization in the United States for its premier imaging systems. ▶ Mize Houser Named a Top 200 Firm by INSIDE Public Accounting. ▶ Stormont-Vail HealthCare has received the American College of Cardiology’s NCDR ACTION Registry–GWTG Platinum Performance Achievement Award for 2014. Stormont-Vail is one of only 256 hospitals nationwide to receive the honor. ▶ Local FASTSIGNS® Team Member, Stephen Ramer, was recognized with the National Bronze Sales Award. ▶ Mars Chocolate North America’s Topeka facility earned LEED Gold Certification from the U.S. Green Building Council.
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Lisa Loewen DESIGNER Janet Faust COVER PHOTOGRAPHER Nathan Ham CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Nathan Ham Bethany Hughes Megan Rogers CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Michael Hooper Lisa Loewen Wendy Long Karen Roth Ridder Kathy Webber CONTRIBUTING EXPERTS Bob Boncella, Ph.D. Carol Boncella, MA, RN Kurt Guth Karl Klein Alissa Menke Mike Munson ADVERTISING SALES Tara Dimick 785.217.4836 tara@tkmagazine.com PUBLISHING COMPANY E2 Communications PO Box 67272 Topeka, KS 66667 785.217.4836
BEFORE
FOUNDER ǀ Kevin Doel
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AFTER JOIN THE CONVERSATION! TK BUSINESS BOOK CLUB FACEBOOK GROUP
Winter Book Recommendation TK recommends “Leaders Eat Last: Why Some Teams Pull Together and Others Don’t” by Simon Sinek.
Winter 2014
PUBLISHER Tara Dimick
Schendel Lawn & Landscape’s Renovation
TK Business Magazine
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Winter 2014 Contributors
TK Business Magazine
2014 TK Business Magazine is published by E2 Communications, Inc. Reproduction or use of this publication in any manner without written permission of the publisher is prohibited. Every effort was made to ensure accuracy of the information in this publication as of press time. The publisher assumes no responsibility of any part for the content of any advertisement in this publication, including any errors and omissions therein. E2 Communications, Inc. makes no endorsement, representation or warranty regarding any goods or services advertised or listed in this publication. Listings and advertisements are provided by the subject company. E2 Communications, Inc. shall not be responsible or liable for any inaccuracy, omission or infringement of any third party's right therein, or for personal injury or any other damage or injury whatsoever. By placing an order for an advertisement, the advertiser agrees to indemnify the publisher against any claims relating to the advertisement.
Topeka Ear Nose & Throat has good news for ears, noses and throats...
Our Lawrence location is opening soon! Since 1997, our Lawrence neighbors have traveled to Topeka to receive the highest level of expertise and care when it comes to ENT diagnosis, treatment and surgical services from Topeka ENT. Now Topeka Ear, Nose & Throat is pleased to announce to our loyal Lawrence patients that we’ll soon be opening a location right in Lawrence. Two KU alums, Dr. Mike Franklin & Dr. Doug Barnes, will take appointments at this location, along with Dr. Scot Hirschi. The office will also be staffed with our expert audiologists and speech pathologists. We can’t wait to open our doors.
Opening January 2015 Stay tuned for our new address!
TOPEKA 785-233-0500
EMPORIA 620-340-0168
NEW! LAWRENCE
Coming Soon! Meanwhile, our Topeka office will be happy to help you.
www.TopekaENT.com winter 2014
10 SATELLITE OFFICES Across NE Kansas
TK Business Magazine
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innovation By Kathy Webber
Photos by Bethany Hughes If you Google Dr. Shekhar Challa, you will not find a man who settles into a routine, goes about his day to simply get through it or does the minimum needed to get by. What you will find is a man who thinks outside of the box, has an unstoppable drive to be innovative and forward thinking, and has a love for the people of Topeka and Kansas. Challa, co-founder and president of Kansas Medical Clinic, moved to Topeka 27 years ago to start his Gastroenterology practice. Dr. Challa said he liked Topeka because it was ideal. “We liked the smaller city, close to a big city and close to a big college,” Challa said.
Dr. Challa demonstrates how the Fibroscan non-invasively measures the amount of fatty tissue in the liver.
unit that enabled technicians to service rural hospitals. At its peak, Challa said they served more than 150 rural hospitals and were in eight different states that do not normally have access to bone density testing. Challa has continued to seek simpler, more cost effective ways to treat his patients and the people of Kansas. He was the first doctor in the state to use the Bravo capsule, a test for measuring acid reflux. Then he introduced the small bowel capsule that allows doctors to view the small intestine. Next, he began using Halo ablation, which removes diseased esophageal tissue, and, most recently, has introduced the Fibroscan, which measures the amount of fatty tissue in the liver. Challa said he has always been fascinated with liver disease, and that obesity and diabetes, which Dr. Shekhar Challa are both on the rise, contribute to Co-Founder/President Kansas Medical Clinic liver disease. “Every one of these directly or together can cause what we call Over the past two decades, Challa fatty liver, or fat disposition in the liver,” has been busy changing Kansas’ medical Challa said. technology. Before the Fibroscan, the only way to “If you are going to think and dream, detect fatty liver was to do a liver biopsy. you might as well think and dream big,” Challa said a liver biopsy is both invasive Challa said. and expensive. In addition, the sample size In 1997, Challa created a way for the is small and pathologists can have different people of Kansas to get better medical care diagnoses. The new Fibroscan measures by founding Osteoporosis Services, which 100 times more area of the liver than a is the largest bone density testing company biopsy, is less expensive and non-invasive. in the Midwest. Challa devised a mobile “One of the beauties of the liver is that
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it is the only organ that can regenerate, meaning it can form new cells,” Challa said. “So when we know the reason for whatever problem the liver has, we can suggest lifestyle changes and then we are able to follow the progress of improvement and it’s non-invasive.” Even though Challa has had many successes, he admits there have been some failures along the way. But that’s not necessarily a bad thing. “Failure is good,” Challa said. “It gives you a new perspective. It’s not all easy so you enjoy your successes better if you have failures along the way. The key is perseverance. You get back up and get going.” Challa certainly is “going.” Kansas Medical Clinic has seen significant growth over the years. “Innovation fascinates me and that’s why we, today, are the largest privatelyowned dermatology group in Kansas,” Challa said. TK
“If you are going to think and dream, you might as well think and dream big.” — Dr. Shekhar Challa
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KID BIZ Kids are big business, and not just at the holidays. While everyone knows that much of the fever over gift buying in December focuses on children, families are increasingly taking their kids' opinion into account when they open up the wallet all year long. Research shows a growing trend in parents considering their children’s input about what to buy. About twothirds of parents say they consult their children on purchases for the whole family, and one-third even consult their children on purchases for themselves. Kids influence choices about vacations, clothes and food. They even participate in online shopping. Local businesses marketing to children say that, while selling to families has changed over time, the rewards have stayed the same. Working in business geared toward children is fun and carries the reward of making a difference in the lives of our most impressionable consumers. TK talked to three Topeka businesses about the challenges and rewards of having a business that appeals to kids. Source: npd.com and blog.viacom.com
By Karen Ridder Photos by Bethany Hughes 8
Winter 2014
s r e k n o B g n i o G
When Joe Tongish decided to bring the Going Bonkers franchise to Topeka in 2011, he had never owned a childoriented business before. He had retired and was volunteering at the YMCA when he realized the family fun center business model could have a place in Topeka. “It was something Topeka didn’t have, but appeared to be needed,” Tongish said. “I could differentiate Going Bonkers from anything else.” The business model was sound; giving kids a place where they could burn up calories and work up a good sweat was an added bonus.
Bringing in Visitors
Topekans responded quickly. In the first year, more than 100,000 people walked through the doors. Considering the total population of Topeka is just about 127,000, it was a result that well surpassed Tongish’s expectations. Going into a child-oriented business was a big change for Tongish. While he had owned businesses before, Tongish had never been in the food business nor had part-time employees. The biggest change though was the atmosphere. It was fun. “It was 180 degrees different from anything I’ve ever done in the past,” Tongish said. “They (the kids) are going 100-miles an hour and sometimes it’s kind of crazy. People who came in are having fun. They were smiling, and it was pleasant.
TK Business Magazine
Dustin Frame General Manager
Having kids there, it was always fun. I got a lot of personal enjoyment out of it.”
Making Business Fun
Fun also became part of the business plan. When Tongish worked with his young, part-time employees he emphasized three things he wanted customers to take away from a visit. 1. The thought, “That was fun” 2. The feeling that the people who worked at Going Bonkers were friendly 3. The idea, “Let’s go back again” Family interaction plays a huge part in the success at Going Bonkers. The center has a large play structure that is big enough for full-sized people to enjoy with their children. “We love to see people up in the playground and playing with the kids getting good exercise themselves,” Tongish said.
Undergoing Change
Tongish sold the Topeka Location to the Going Bonkers corporate office earlier this year. The corporate owners have not made many changes to Going Bonkers, and Tongish is still working with the company. Visitors may see some fresh paint and new menu items, and birthday parties are going to have an overhaul, but the same family fun is still there.
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Dr. Shekhar Challa &
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KID BIZ Nearly every day The Toy Store owner Margaret Warner gets to meet someone who loves a child and is trying to make a special memory with that child. An aunt comes in looking for an activity that would give her niece and nephew a take-away to remember an upcoming visit—she finds a potholder maker and a paint craft. The young parent or grandparent seeks a way to have fun with their child and get out of the house—enter story time and drum circle. It is not uncommon to see the sidewalk in front covered with chalk drawings, or a fire truck in front of the store—not for an emergency, but for fun. The Toy Store in Topeka has seen generations of kids, parents and grandparents walk through the door. Warner has been in the toy business for nearly 40 years (owner for the last 30), and says working with children is the only thing she has ever done or wanted to do. Her mother owned the store before she took it over. “I love it. I say, ‘It is in my blood.’ I knew as a junior in high school. I said I wanted to own toy stores in the yearbook. I love what I do,” Warner said.
Providing Childhood’s Best Tools
Warner says her goal is to provide the best, most creative, open-ended toys to the public. While some of the store’s mission, which includes providing what Warner calls, “the best tools for childhood,” has always stayed the same, the approach has changed a bit, particularly in the last few years. “It seems like there is less time for play. So the time they [children] do have is precious and special,” Warner said. “I have seen that families have a lot more time constraints. So, customers want to come in and get their needs met quickly and get on with their day.”
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e r o t S y o The T Creating an Experience
In order to persuade people to linger, The Toy Store has greatly expanded its instore activity opportunities in the last year. Whereas the store used to host an event once a month, it now has an activity at least once a day and sometimes two or three times a day. Among the regular activities are Story Time, Mad Scientist, Kids Drum Circle and a Skill Toy Club. Warner says they try hard to create an in-store environment in which the toys can be played with and touched. They have 25 different play spaces throughout the store where children can have the chance to explore what is on the shelf. “The toys we put out, we find out if they really love it or really don’t. Parents will head for what they see the child playing with and enjoying. It makes for a much more fun shopping experience and a much better buying value because you know you are buying something the child will use. You know it is age appropriate and level appropriate,” Warner said. Getting parents into the store also helps fight the increasing competition from online purchases. While the Toy Store does offer its own online catalogue, those in-store experiences give customers a reason to walk in the door.
TK Business Magazine
Margaret Warner Owner
Stepping It Up a Notch
Warner says the store not-only provides a hands-on experience, but also offers toys parents cannot buy anywhere else. “The expectation is higher today; everything has had to go up a notch,” Warner said. In the last couple of years, they have also revamped the inside of the store, repainting with bright colors and investing in roll-able shelving that allows them to move the merchandise in order to have floor space for all of those activities.
Harvesting Sales
The National Retail Federation reports that retail businesses on average make about 20 percent of their total sales during the holidays. For The Toy Store the holidays are truly “harvest” season; 70 percent of its business occurs during the last eight weeks of the year. Warner says what she loves best about working in a child-oriented business is the opportunity to grow something larger than herself. “It is something that will last after I’m gone—the tools to help form a child in those formative years. That’s the most important work there is,” Warner said.
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KID BIZ s c i t s a n m y G E G A C Since 2002 CAGE Gymnastics has been offering classes for children—from toddlers to teenagers. They have programs at all levels, from beginners for fun to serious competitive gymnastics. Owner Triny Lindsay started working in a child-oriented business because of her own background in the sport. “I couldn’t stay away from gymnastics. I got into coaching and then went from coaching in Olathe to owning a gym in Topeka,” Lindsay said. While the gym has been there since 1987, Lindsay purchased the facility in 1999. It became known as CAGE in 2002. The gym currently serves about 500 children a month in regular programs that teach artistic gymnastics including vault, bars, balance beam and floor exercise. The foam pits and tumble tracks are two of their main features.
Changing Parents
Lindsay said the biggest challenge of working in her industry is keeping up to date on the changes in techniques and health and fitness news. In the 15 years
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since she purchased the gym, what parents want has also changed a bit. “Years ago, parents just wanted their kids to have fun. Now, parents are leaning toward wanting to see results and tangible improvements,” Lindsay said. Another change is that people are focused more than they used to be on getting more than one thing out of a sports experience. When students come to gymnastics they are learning motor skills, hopping, leaping, jumping, bending and stretching, but they are also working out their minds. Lindsay says parents don’t just want a babysitter, they want to make sure their children are also getting a learning experience that includes things like, facing fears, sportsmanship, how to work with a partner and problem solving.
Offering More Options
An important part of the CAGE business plan is to offer a lot of community opportunities. They have open gym times, birthday parties, private lessons, field trips for scout groups, parents’ night out events and even a New Year’s Eve Overnighter.
TK Business Magazine
Triny Lindsay Owner All of these events give people who are not taking classes the opportunity to get inside the gym and experience it. “It helps get folks in, and get comfortable with the facility and get to know it and see what we’re about,” Lindsay said.
Developing the “Aha” Moment
Lindsay says she loves working with children and feels like she learns a lot from the experience. “The kids are so curious and they are little sponges and sometimes they will do something that is completely surprising to both them and the coach,” Lindsay said. “You cry with them; you laugh with them; you get frustrated with them; you feel the joy and the pain and heartache.” When a child has that kind of “aha” moment it is rewarding to be able to be a part of the experience. Lindsay says children and parents are equally her customers. If both sides are not happy with the experience at CAGE, it will not work TK for anyone.
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Anchor + Location + Audience = Economic Development
RETAILERS WANT WANAMAKER By Lisa Loewen Photos by Bethany Hughes
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Crosswinds Commons Academy Sports + Outdoors 125 full and part time employees
Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Store Orscheln Farm & Home 25+ employees
Five Guys Burgers and Fries
20+ hourly employees 2 to 3 managers
McAlister’s Deli
50 to 60 hourly employees 3 to 4 managers
Pie Five Pizza Co. 25 hourly employees 3 to 4 managers
Sleep Number
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Drive north on Wanamaker and you will see how the combination of a big box anchor retail store, a high-traffic location and a vibrant community formulate a simple equation for development success. In an area that less than a year ago appeared to be deteriorating to the point of blight, now stands an attractive strip with nationally recognized retail stores and new construction promising additional restaurants and retail venues. The new development, Crosswinds Commons, is located at S.W. Wanamaker and 11th, in the space formerly occupied by Discovery Furniture, Room Makers,
Factory Direct Appliance and Orscheln Farm & Home. Developer David Christie, of Christie Development Associates in Overland Park, said he knew the property was underutilized and seized the opportunity to redevelop the area when the Winter family chose to move their furniture business to West Ridge Mall. “Topeka was already on the retail radar,” Christie said. “A lot of potential tenants are looking at opening locations in Topeka; they just need the right location. Having worked with Academy Sports + Outdoors in other locations, Christie pitched a retooled Wanamaker location and they liked what they saw. Once Academy was on board, Christie said it was relatively easy to bring in the other retail stores. “You have to have a big box retailer as anchor to drive the development,” Christie said. You also need a great location. Mike and Holly Richey, owners of Five Guys Burgers and Fries said they have been trying to open a location in Topeka for four years, but they really wanted to be on the Wanamaker corridor. Before this development, nothing was available that fit their location requirements. “When this Wanamaker location became available and we knew it was going to involve some new construction, we jumped on it,” Holly Richey said. McAlister’s Deli owners, The Saxton Group, had the same idea. Vice President Adam Saxton said they had already been looking at Topeka as a viable market based on the mix of business people to build a lunch crowd, residential areas to build a solid customer base and retail
"A lot of potential tenants are looking at opening locations in Topeka; they just need the right location."
TK Business Magazine
— David Christie Christie Development Associates
shops to draw in traffic. However, they also wanted a location on Wanamaker. “We needed to be where the highest traffic potential would be,” Saxton said. “We also like to go into new construction so we can customize the location the way we want.” However, to attract that anchor store and the subsequent smaller retail outlets, concessions in rent levels and upfront fees had to be considered. In order to make the location affordable for the new tenants, Christie asked the City of Topeka for its help. The City Council voted to make the area a community improvement district that will reimburse Christie’s $22.6 million investment through a 1 percent tax imposed on sales for businesses in the Crosswinds Commons development. City Manager Jim Colson said the City agreed to approve the Community Improvement District based on confidence that the planned development and infrastructure improvements could lead to incremental development in the surrounding area. “Even an area as vibrant as the Wanamaker Corridor needs to continue to grow and improve,” Colson said. TK
Other Christie Development Associates LLC projects in Topeka ▶ California Crossings, SE 29th and California (1992) ▶ Whelan’s, 5515 S.W. 21st (2002) ▶ 1131 SW Winding Road (ongoing)
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winter 2014
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Americans are fond of worshipping leaders. They throw parties for them. They give them awards. They expect leaders to provide answers to profound questions. Some of the attention is deserved, but I’ve seen false praise given to a person for his title only.
WHAT IS TRUE LEADERSHIP? LESSONS FROM THE TRENCHES.
True leaders serve others. The boss is willing to forego personal gain for the betterment of his employer and the community. He quietly pursues results. He does not seek praise; he earns it. A leader sets a high standard and actions speak louder than words. The boss gets in early, works hard all day and stays late to make sure everything is done right. Business is more than money. It’s about relationships. The loathsome employer may be right, but he is not fun to work for if he exhibits reprehensible behavior. I remember one employer told me, “We want to work with people we like.”
Smart leaders match employees’ skills to available needs in the workplace. A strong leader cherishes employees’ hard work and sincerely praises individual and collective achievement. One of my favorite leaders was a newsroom manager who empowered others to grow in their skills and obtain higher levels of responsibility and achievement. Her praise and criticism were fair, sincere and inspiring. I would work for her again in a minute.
Wise leaders know the best deals (and really the only good deals) are a win-win for each party. One manager taught me to under promise and over deliver. Customers will be loyal to you for your extra effort.
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Effective leaders are tough-minded and stubborn when they know they are right. They will say, “No” to the wrong deal 20 times if necessary to save the company. Former Capitol Federal Savings Chairman and CEO John “Jack” Dicus was approached about investing in nodocument loans. Dicus refused because such loans did not verify income to pay for the loans. By saying no, Dicus, now chairman emeritus, prevented the bank from suffering losses. He upheld high lending standards with a focus on the single-family, owner-occupied mortgage business. As a result, Capitol Federal Savings has weathered several national financial crises in the past 35 years and prospered.
Good leaders know what really matters. One time a railroad leader was about to speak at a press conference, but suddenly was taken away due to a pressing phone call. Some reporters were miffed that they had to wait another 15 minutes. I found out later the railroad executive was talking to a person who had just lost a loved one on the job. The leader was right; reporters can wait. A sincere act of kindness will be remembered forever.
Good leaders are ethical and trustworthy. There is not a lie in them. They are able to take criticism, fix problems and move on quickly and efficiently.
TK Business Magazine
By Michael Hooper
photo submitted Michael Hooper is a freelance writer based in Topeka. He has worked as a journalist for over 20 years in Kansas and Nebraska.
Exceptional leaders are visionary. They can see and evaluate market conditions and make wise decisions. A smart leader is keenly aware of his weaknesses and won’t let pride ruin his judgment. He can let a marginal idea die and move on.
Quality leaders surround themselves with trusted colleagues who are willing to discuss an idea without fear. They are willing to hear all sides — pros and cons — about whether to pursue a certain objective. They want the truth, and debate polishes truth. A democratic leadership team that encourages employee participation creates better results. TK
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TK Business Magazine
2014 marks the fifth year that the Jayhawk Area Council Boy Scouts of America have presented the “Top 20 Professionals Under 40� to recognize young professionals who are impacting the future of Topeka in a positive way. Achieving this honor is no small feat as 275 nominations for 210 individuals were submitted by 223 people. Nominees must then complete an application focused on personal and professional goals, leadership, professional experience, and community involvement. Those applications are then reviewed and vetted by a selection committee made up of community leaders that have the challenging task of narrowing that list down to the top 20. This year’s honorees serve, lead, give and inspire. The following pages provide a glimpse into the lives of these young leaders.
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photo by Nathan Ham Photography
Amanda Kiefer
Adaptable
Assistant Vice President, Assistant General Counsel, and Director of Minority and Women Inclusion Federal Home Loan Bank of Topeka Age: 38 Education: Kansas State University, BA Washburn University School of Law, JD Hometown: Overland Park, KS Spouse: Curt Von Lintel Children: Kiefer (9), Ava (6) and Elena (4)
Best Advice Ever Received:
My dad has always said: “Make them tell you no.”
Accomplishment Most Proud Of:
I am most proud of becoming a runner. I was a college athlete (a rower), but never a runner. Running was the thing we were required to do when we couldn’t get on the water. After my second baby, who is 6 years old, I started running. When I started, I couldn’t run a mile. Now, I’ve finished more half marathons than I can remember and two full marathons. Running centers me. I can work through almost any stress by running and often I find solutions to problems during my early morning runs.
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Favorite Thing About Humanity:
My favorite thing about humanity is our amazing ability to be considerate of others. It’s sometimes a small gesture, like giving up a seat or holding a door, and sometimes, it’s huge, like the folks who rushed in to help at the Boston Marathon bombing. No matter the size, consideration of others is a recognition that we are all in this together. I love that.
WOW Factor:
• President of the Topeka Bar Association. • Chair of the Kansas Bar Association. • Founder & Chair of FHL Bank Diversity Council. • Leadership Greater Topeka Class of 2014. • Outstanding Young Lawyer Award from the Topeka Bar Association 2006. • Woman of Achievement from EMBD's Women's Initiative 2014.
“Not only has Ms. Kiefer established herself as a leading member of the Topeka Bar, she is known throughout the state for her community service and professionalism. Ms. Kiefer has demonstrated excellence in her legal profession and has paved the way for many young women attorneys.” — Jennifer Bazine Legal Services Bureau Kansas Department of Revenue
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HAPPINESS
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photo by Nathan Ham Photography
Aarion Gray, Ph.D.
photo by Nathan Ham Photography
Achiever
Principal at Logan Elementary School Seaman USD 345 Age: 35 Education: Jackson State University, Ph.D. Hometown: Jackson, MS Spouse: Dr. Minervia Scott-Gray Children: Braylon (2) and Zoey (1)
Role Model
My father is my role model. He taught me the value of hard work and the importance of treating everyone, regardless of their situation, with dignity and respect.
Best Advice Ever Received
“The true measure of a man is how he treats those who can’t do anything for him.” Advice from my former boss at AmSouth Bank, Mr. Frank Whittington.
Favorite Thing About Humanity:
The ability to show empathy for others.
• NET Reach Board Member. • Sunday School Superintendent for El Shaddai Ministries Community Church. • Seaman USD 345 Technology Committee.
“Dr. Gray is a true agent of impact on the lives of youth in our community who truly need us most. His investment in each student is genuine, his passion for what he does is inspiring and he works tirelessly, despite challenges and barriers to assure that each and every child reaches the maximum success possible.” — Dawn McWilliams Chief Professional Officer Boys & Girls Clubs of Topeka
Winter 2014
Adrian Guerrero
Director of Operations State of Kansas - Kansas State Board of Nursing Age: 38 Hometown: Topeka, KS Spouse: Darcie Guerrero Children: Matthew (17) and Michael (15)
Best Advice Ever Received
“It’s better to be the engine leading the train from the front, than it is to be the caboose following from the back.” Advice from Mary Blubaugh MSN, RN, Executive Administrator, Kansas State Board of Nursing.
Accomplishment Most Proud Of:
Receiving the George C. Askew Award in 2013 presented by the University of Kansas Public Management Center and American Academy of Certified Public Managers for the Kansas Automated Nurse Notification Alert System. The KANNalert System is a Push Notification System that is used to notify nurses licensed by the State of Kansas when they are ready for license renewal. It sends information via email and/or text message. The system also can be used to notify licensed nurses within the State of emergency preparedness information.
WOW Factor:
WOW Factor:
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• Owns small IT consulting business that helps small business and residential customers. • Committee chairperson of Nursys Committee of the National Council of State Board of Nursing. • Received George C. Askew National Award from the University of Kansas Public Management Center. • Received Centers of Digital Government Best of Breed Award in 2001 for developing online license renewal system, the first of its kind in the state.
“What truly impresses me about Adrian is his willingness to go above and beyond the call of duty.” — Carolyn Orozco, Ed.D. Assistant Superintendent Seaman Unified School District #345
Post-Acute To Home (PATH)
PATH acts as a bridge between hospital and home by helping patients overcome the challenges of recovering from an injury, illness or surgery. To learn what we can do for you, contact Topeka Presbyterian Manor at 785-272-6510. TopekaPresbyterianManor.org
PATHrehab.org
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David Callanan
Leader
Co-Founder Advisors Excel Age: 38 Education: Washburn University, BBA Hometown: Benton, KS Spouse: Karlun Callanan Children: Chloe (7) and Jolie (4)
Best Advice Ever Received:
“Success is the peace of mind, which is a direct result of the self-satisfaction of knowing you did YOUR BEST to become the BEST you are capable of becoming.” – John Wooden I love this because it tells me it isn’t about measuring up to others. Your success is tied to you, and if you do your BEST that is the key.
Accomplishment Most Proud Of:
Building Advisors Excel with 250 amazing people: • We impact 250 families in Topeka by providing what I believe to be the best place in the Midwest to work. • We impact another 1,000 Financial Advisors across the country, assisting them in building GREAT Financial Planning Businesses. • Through those 1,000 advisors we impact more than 50,000 families annually helping them plan and execute a successful retirement.
3 Items if Stranded on an Island:
• My family- because my wife and girls truly make me smile. • Sun Screen- because sunburns hurt and we will be outside in the water all day. • Personal Chef with a wide variety of choices- because my wife and I love great food and my kids are really picky. I think my 4-year-old still only eats five things and she is really clear “meat is yucky.”
WOW Factor:
• Started Advisors Excel in February 2005 with Derek Thompson and Cody Foster using every penny they had. • Assists in strategic planning with Fellowship Bible Church. • Eagle Scout.
“David displays character and integrity. He is humble. His success has not given him an over-inflated sense of worth. He is authentic and sincere. I value his friendship and wisdom. He sharpens me as a leader in my church.” — Joe Hishmeh Lead Pastor Fellowship Bible Church
photo by Nathan Ham Photography
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Winter 2014
TK Business Magazine
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winter 2014
business
our is growing
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photo by Nathan Ham Photography
Allison Nichols
photo by Nathan Ham Photography
Caring
Volunteer Kansas Special Olympics Age: 21 Hometown: Topeka, KS
Role Model:
My mom is my role model because she believes in me.
Best Advice Ever Received:
“To have fun and do your best.” Advice from my mom.
Accomplishment Most Proud Of:
Becoming a Global Messenger so I can spread the word about Special Olympics.
Favorite Thing About Humanity:
Caring about other people.
WOW Factor:
• Athlete in the Special Olympics of Kansas. • Profiled in MVP Sports Magazine. • Has Down syndrome and serves as a spokesperson for others with mental and physical disabilities.
“Allison’s strengths of Caring, Competing and Confidence are spot on. She loves a challenge, is contagiously enthusiastic, and instantly welcomed where ever she goes. She has proven that all leaders are not “typical,” some have a “different ability,” but don’t make it a disability. With her different abilities she is a role model that any young person could look up to.” — Donna Zimmerman Senior VP Public Relations/Communications Special Olympics of Kansas “While it is relatively easy to train people to develop technical skills, leadership is one of those intangibles that requires a predisposition toward service. Allison is undoubtedly predisposed to lead and to serve.” — Allan L. Henderson Coach Topeka Junior Blues Special Olympics
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Dedicated
Brian Haug
Account Executive 13 WIBW Age: 28 Education: Washburn University, BBA Hometown: Baileyville, KS
Role Model:
Dean David Sollars is one of my role models because of his dedication to the Washburn School of Business and continued encouragement to everyone around him!
Best Advice Ever Received:
“Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life.”
Biggest Fear:
Not being able to accomplish all of my goals and aspirations in my lifetime.
Accomplishment Most Proud Of:
After moving to Topeka for college and completing my sophomore year of college, I bought my first home at the age of 19.
WOW Factor:
• Leadership Greater Topeka Class of 2010. • President of Topeka Youth Project. • Greater Topeka Chamber Ambassador. • Spearheaded raising the funds for the largest Habitat for Humanity House in Topeka – over $130,000.
“Brian Haug has remarkable compassion that he brings to bear in improving Topeka.” — James R. Ogle, Jr. Vice President & General Manager 13 WIBW-TV
VALUGUARD
™
photo by Nathan Ham Photography
Candis Meerpohl
Driven
4-H Youth Development Agent K-State Research & Extension Age: 31 Education: University of Kansas, BS Hometown: Hanston, KS Spouse: Kelly Meerpohl Children: Daryl (6) and Alex (2)
Northeast Kansas’ leading commercial roofing protection, maintenance and repair service. PREVENT minor issues from becoming costly ones
Best Advice Ever Received:
PROTECT against dangers like debris buildup
Accomplishment Most Proud Of:
PRESERVE your warranty with certified technicians
“When you get a job, show up, be early and do your work.” – Rod Thomasson, Colby Community College Professor My first career was four and a half years at Central National Bank climbing the company ladder until I was a branch manager in Topeka. My employers were happy with my performance, but I was not happy with my career track. When I left the bank in 2009, I did not have another job lined up, I just felt I needed to take some time to really figure out what I was suppose to be doing. Through some trial and error, I found my 4-H family in Shawnee County. I also found out that I was created to serve other people. I am a hard worker and I believe in positive change. When you have that passion you can motivate those around you to help as well.
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WOW Factor:
• Has been a “Big” since 2007 in Big Brothers Big Sisters. • Knit Topeka Club Member. • Teaching Robotics Technology Camp.
“She is a leader who is well-prepared, goal-oriented and results driven. It’s fun to work with her; a smile never leaves her face.” — Nancy K. Daniels
Brought to you by the leader in commercial roofing for over 35 years, Midwest Coating, Inc.
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Drs. Hamilton & Wilson are so proud of Dr. Gena Hendrickson for being selected as one of ‘Topeka’s Top 20 Under 40’!
2235 S.W. Westport Dr. Topeka, KS 66614 785-272-3722 • www.hwortho.com
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photo by Nathan Ham Photography
Christina Turner
Happy
Owner/Director Manchester School for Young Children Age: 35 Education: Washburn University, BA Emporia State University, MS Hometown: Topeka, KS Child: Alyssia (3)
Best Advice Ever Received:
“You have to do what makes you happy and just let everything else fall into place.” Advise from my best friend, Sarah Meyer.
Accomplishment Most Proud Of:
My biggest accomplishment is opening Manchester. I had zero business experience and many people telling me that it wasn’t a good idea. Fortunately, I also had a group of people that were incredibly supportive and believed in me and helped me get to where I am today.
Favorite Thing About Humanity:
Seeing people come together in times of need, putting their differences aside, and truly being united for a common cause or reason.
WOW Factor:
• Early Childhood Education Board Member at Washburn Institute of Technology. • Court Appointed Special Advocate for two children. • Mentor to early childhood providers around the state through Child Care Aware of Northeast Kansas. • Selected as a “Topeka Women Who Rock” in seveneightfive Magazine.
“I could go on and on about Manchester School for Young Children and the impact that Christina has had on Topeka’s children through her school, which only exists through her dedication that children in Topeka needed something different.” — Jennifer Sourk Parent of child attending Manchester School for Young Children In-House Corporate Counsel Midwest Health Inc.
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photo by Nathan Ham Photography
photo by Nathan Ham Photography
Imaginative
Chris Fisher
Anchor 13 WIBW-TV Age: 32 Education: Friends University, BS Hometown: Basehor, KS Significant Other: Stephanie Schultz Children: Blake (8)
Role Model:
My late grandfather, Ron Brown, was one of 14 children, born dirt poor in the Ozark Mountains who rose from poverty with a 6th grade education. He taught me humility, the value of a hard day’s work and the satisfaction that comes with it. Most importantly, he continues to help me realize how there is far more to life than having some of the finer things, such as fancy cars, a huge house and a big boat.
Best Advice Ever Received:
“Just be yourself. It’s all you got, it’s all you’re gonna get, and thankfully, it’s all you need.” Advise from Dale Carter, former boss and program director of KFKF-FM
Accomplishment Most Proud Of:
It has to be the evolution of my annual fundraiser, the “Sporting Clays for Kids.”
WOW Factor:
• Big Brothers Big Sisters Community Advisory Board Member. • Organized the TARC Sporting Clays for Kids Fundraiser. • Capitol Citizen Award 2013 by Capitol Federal Savings and Cox Communications. • Leadership Greater Topeka Class of 2013.
“Chris has a true passion for making a difference in the Topeka community and has put that passion into action.” — Sherry Lundry Development Director TARC, Inc.
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Honest
Hattie Mitchell
Tribal Treasurer Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation Age: 30 Education: Washburn University, BBA, CPA Hometown: Mayetta, KS
Role Model:
Warren Buffett. He has built a great fortune and yet is still down to earth. His investing principles are sound and he gives back to charity, which I admire and also plan to do.
Best Advice Ever Received:
I attended the Summer Venture in Management Program at Harvard University and the instructor told us to: “Do one thing and do it well.”
Accomplishment Most Proud Of:
I am proud to be the Tribal Council Treasurer for the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation. I have worked hard to get my education and obtained outside experience so I could strive in attaining this position. I was able to accomplish my goal because enough people believed in me and voted for me.
Favorite Thing About Humanity:
That we hold universal truths.
WOW Factor:
• Native American 40 Under 40 by the National Center for American Indian Enterprise Development. • VP on the Board of Directors of PBPN, LLC. • Foster for dogs with Saving Death Row Dogs.
“This outstanding young Prairie Band members has inspired our community in many ways, working with all age groups…Uncommon for reservations, she has managed to instill a desire into our youth to achieve short and long term wealth management. Hattie has taken the initiative to create and coordinate a “Will and Estate Planning Workshop”… for our tribal elders….Hattie has a heart for the people for which she serves and protects.” — Thomas M. Wabnum Prairie Band Potawatomi Tribal Council Member Retired, BIA and OSTAI Viet Nam Veteran
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winter 2014
Brian Roth VP of Lending
Randy Currie Branch Manager
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Buck Reuter
Analytical
Manager Transmission Accounting Westar Energy Operations Officer Topeka Police Reserves Age: 36 Education: Washburn University, BA, MBA, CPA Hometown: Overland Park, KS Spouse: Crystal Reuter Children: Tucker (5) and Hudson (3)
Best Advice Ever Received:
“Never give up and keep working hard to accomplish a goal.” Advice from my mom.
Biggest Fear:
Losing someone important to me in my life.
Accomplishment Most Proud Of:
Becoming a Reserve Police Officer and taking a leadership role in the unit. I work hard to be a leader at Westar and the police department so that my boys see a positive role model.
Role Model:
I don't have just one role model. From a young age I learned that everyone has good and bad qualities to them. I don't like to just pick one person and say that is my role model. Growing up my father wasn't around much and I felt the need for a father figure in my life. Today my father-in-law plays an important role in my life as a positive role model.
Favorite Thing About Humanity:
My favorite thing about humanity is that we are all different and we all have different life experiences, which make us all unique.
WOW Factor:
• Topeka Police Reserve means Buck is a VOLUNTEER police officer – he works as a Topeka Police Officer for FREE! • Washburn University football team captain and MVP. • Compete in a Topeka Tinman Triathlon. • Responsible for collection of over $250,000,000 annually.
“Mr. Reuter has demonstrated his leadership, loyalty and sense of civic responsibilities as long as I have known him. He balances his family, work and volunteerism at the TPD in a way that few have the ability to do. In the end, the Citizens of Topeka benefit from this high-level commitment.” — Major Jerry Stanley Division Commander-Criminal Investigations Topeka Police Department photo by Nathan Ham Photography
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photo by Nathan Ham Photography
Jenalea Randall
photo by Nathan Ham Photography
Witty
Community Relations Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas Age: 37 Education: Stephens College, BA; Baker University, MBA Hometown: Hartford, KS Spouse: Anthony S. Randall. Tony passed away in July following a two and a half year battle against brain cancer.
Role Model:
Pam Walstrom with Capper Foundation Easter Seals understands what motivates people and offered them an opportunity to help when they can.
Best Advice Ever Received:
“Let people do their jobs.” Advice from Brig. Gen. Tod Bunting (ret). I translated it to mean: let people do what they are good at and they will deliver.
Accomplishment Most Proud Of:
I am most proud of the life I created with my husband and the love we shared. We didn’t let his cancer diagnosis stop us from enjoying life, being optimistic about the future or creating memories. We traveled. We laughed. We lived life. We remained positive until the cancer took control and all there was left was to say good-bye. I am very proud that when Tony passed away he knew I was crazy about him and that he was deeply loved.
WOW Factor:
• Leadership Greater Topeka Class of 2007. • Sertoman of the Year 2010, Topeka Evening Sertoma Club. • American Red Cross Kansas Capital Area Board Member.
“Her drive, compassion, and big heart would make her a valued member of any team. She defines the word volunteer, and serves with a giving heart for our true mission to serve those in need and help prepare our communities for the unexpected.” — Jim Allan General Manager/Red Cross Board Chair Country Legends 106.9
Confident
John Bell
Recreation Program Supervisor Old Prairie Town at Ward-Meade Historic Site Gage Park Mini-Train & Carousel Shawnee County Parks & Recreation 7th Grade Head Football Coach & 7th Grade Boys Assistant Basketball Coach USD 501 – Jardine Middle School Age: 34 Education: Emporia State University, BS Hometown: Topeka, KS Spouse: Stacey Bell Children: Brady (4) and Cambrie (2)
Role Model:
My role model is my father, Kurt Bell. He went above and beyond to show me what it takes to be a responsible adult and father. I’ll be forever grateful to this man. He continues to be a wonderful influence and role model in my life.
Best Advice Ever Received:
"Live life with no regrets."
Accomplishment Most Proud Of:
Graduating college, it took a lot of hard work and dedication.
WOW Factor:
• Vice President of Topeka Tourism Alliance. • Under his supervision, Old Prairie Town received Historical / Cultural Facility Award by the National Association of County Parks & Recreation. • Created “Friends of Old Prairie Town.”
“John is a very conscientious, hard worker. He is always considerate of his co-workers and volunteers. John is very organized. He makes certain that every employee is working to their best capacity… John is a great leader. He gives his volunteers the freedom to lead a project and make suggestion to make it better.” — Philicia McKee Executive Director Keep America Beautiful-Topeka/Shawnee County
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photo by Nathan Ham Photography
Vince Avila III
Selfless
Sr. Human Resources Business Partner Westar Energy, Inc. Age: 34 Education: University of Kansas, BSME Hometown: Lawrence, KS Spouse: Julie Avila Children: Alex (15), Haley (12), Lila (10) and Titus (5)
Best Advice Ever Received:
From a friend’s father: "Never let other people’s sin lead you to sin." Or said another way, have the integrity to do what’s right, even when others around you do not.
Accomplishment Most Proud Of:
My transition from a poor supervisor in my first leadership role to being a student of leadership and practicing the art at a high level. I received some very candid feedback in my first job that allowed me to see my shortcomings. Now I’m in a place to give that feedback to others and help them improve their leadership. I consider myself a coach. My primary purpose is to bring out the best in my team and get them to perform at a higher level than they thought was possible.
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Favorite Thing About Humanity:
God created us all different. We each have strengths we bring to the table. I am amazed and encouraged every day by the resilience of folks who encounter difficult things in their lives and bounce back.
WOW Factor:
• Kansas Children Service League Board of Directors and Finance Committee. • Pregnancy Care Center of Lawrence Board Member. • Leadership Westar 2007.
“Vince has been intentional in developing true leadership. Good leadership requires empathy, a full understanding of all the issues, an ability to get beyond the details to see the vision, and getting others to see it as well. This epitomizes Vince.” — David Santee President True North Market Insights Chairman The Pregnancy Care Center
Taking energy to heart.
Congratulations! All of the 20 Under 40 honorees provide wonderful energy to our communities. Thank you! Congrats to Vince Avila, Buck Reuter and the rest of the honorees for your commitment to giving positive energy.
winter 2014
WestarEnergy.com
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Dr. Gena Hendrickson Persistent
Orthodontist Hamilton and Wilson Orthodontics Age: 29 Education: Kansas State University University of Missouri-Kansas City, MS, DDS Spouse: Jeremy Hendrickson
Role Model:
My mom and dad are both my role models. They have blessed my little brother and me with every opportunity to be successful, happy and self-sufficient. They have instilled in us values of hard work, dedication and determination. My parents have the unique ability to protect us while also allowing us to make mistakes and learn from them. This ability has been invaluable. I truly believe I have the best parents in the world.
Best Advice Ever Received:
The best advice I have ever received was from my parents. They have always told me I could achieve any goal I set my mind to; I just had to work very hard for it.
Favorite Thing About Humanity:
The surprises. In our world of negative media coverage there always seems to be that uplifting story of humanity that makes you believe everything will be ok.
WOW Factor:
• President of Topeka District Dental Society. • Leadership Greater Topeka Class of 2014. • Accepted into Dental School after only attending KSU for three years. • Student Council President at UMKC School of Dentistry. • American Association of Orthodontics Award. • American Academy of Oral & Maxillofacial Pathology Award. • Quintessence Award for Research Achievement.
“Gena knows the importance of giving back to make a difference in her community.” — Pam Walstrom VP Development Easter Seals Capper Foundation “She is extremely intelligent and relates well with patients and staff. She also is motivated and knows how to get things done.” — Scott D. Hamilton DDS, MSD Drs. Hamilton & Wilson Orthodontics photo by Nathan Ham Photography
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“As a participant in the various Lean Six Sigma courses, I have learned to use Lean Six Sigma to help my company eliminate waste, develop effective systems, and work to be a company of continuous improvement.”
get
Tara Dimick Owner of E2 Communications
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winter 2014
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photo by Nathan Ham Photography
photo by Nathan Ham Photography
Michelle McCormick Spirited Batterer Intervention Program Certification Unit Coordinator Office of the Kansas Attorney General Age: 35 Education: University of Kansas, MS Hometown: Olpe, KS
Best Advice Ever Received:
A woman named JAC Patrissi told a humorous story about her aunt from Brooklyn, NY who owned a neighborhood dress shop. JAC grew up hearing her aunt say to the patrons, “If the dress doesn’t fit…leave it on the floor!” She used this as a metaphor to describe how to handle criticism without becoming defensive. She suggests that you should learn what you can from the feedback but if it does not “fit” you can “leave it on the floor.” Good life (and fashion) advice!
Accomplishment Most Proud Of:
I am proud of my work to help draft and pass legislation to strengthen the response to domestic violence offenders.
Favorite Thing About Humanity:
My favorite thing about humanity is its complexity and diversity! I am interested in people who have had different life experiences other than my own. I believe that compassion for others starts with understanding and appreciating that our differences should be respected, but that we share many common core beliefs.
WOW Factor:
• Owner & member of Craftivists Art Collective. • Participating artist of NOTO District. • Drafted a state law that was passed on how our courts respond to domestic violence offenders.
“Michelle is equal parts passionate and practical. She is deeply involved and always the first to step up and get something done.” — Laura Burton Midland Care
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Generous
Nathan Schmidt
Topeka City Councilman; City of Topeka Senior Database Administrator; State of Kansas Age: 36 Education: University of Kansas, BS Washburn University, BS Hometown: Hays, KS
Role Model:
My parents. They are both educators and active in their communities. They have dedicated their lives to bettering the future of others and they instilled that desire to make the world around us a better place in my siblings and me.
Accomplishment Most Proud Of:
Rallying the city of Topeka around the celebration of the 60th anniversary of Brown v. Board of Education. First, I think it is the most important Supreme Court decision ever rendered, but I also think it encapsulates who we are as a city. This is a city that has never shied away from having the difficult conversation. It has happened with slavery, prohibition, women’s suffrage, segregation, mental health and how we treat the mentally ill, LGBT rights, religion, Native Americans and many more. We have those conversations here and they change the country and the world.
WOW Factor:
• Voting member of the Joint Economic Development Organization. • Chair of Topeka Advisory Board on Community Planning for the Metropolitan Topeka Planning Organization. • Persuaded First Lady Michelle Obama to visit and speak in Topeka for Brown vs. Board of Education 50th Anniversary and graduation.
“Nathan is a sincere, solid Topeka citizen with a gift of understanding the community and quietly going about serving in a way that does not draw attention to himself. This is a refreshing attitude to witness: someone who truly wants to improve our community and using their leadership skills to do so in an unassuming manner.” — Mayor Larry E. Wolgast City of Topeka
I want to get a loan for my business. What do banks consider when making a decision? Scan the QR code to watch INTRUST commercial banker Scott Griffith answer this question.
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Nathan Morris
Focused
Owner / Co-Manager Meridian Roofing Solutions, LLC Age: 32 Education: Washburn University Hometown: Holton, KS Spouse: Annie Morris Child: Elyse (3)
Role Model:
My role model is my grandfather, Don Morris. He has taught me so many things about life and business. He is a man from the Silent Generation. The mix of hard work, determination, and unwavering values is what I look up to the most.
Best Advice Ever Received:
It is simple. Happiness is a state of mind. It doesn’t matter what you are going through or how hard it is. It is all in your control whether you are happy or not.
Accomplishment Most Proud Of:
Finishing Ironman Lake Placid in 2012. It was the first time in my life that I set an extreme goal and completed it. When I was 310 pounds and telling myself in three years I would swim 2.4 miles, bike 112 miles and run a marathon all in the same day, I thought I was crazy. Sometimes crazy can be a great thing.
Favorite Thing About Humanity:
There is always someone willing to step up. No matter what is going on in my life or out in the community, when something happens someone always steps up.
WOW Factor:
• Co-founder of Entrepreneurs & Ale. • Leadership Greater Topeka Class of 2012. • Topeka Active 20-30 Member. • Chair of TEDXTopeka. • Immediate Past Chair of Fast Forward.
“Nathan’s dedication to the community, desire to succeed and overall positive attitude are exactly the qualities that we need in young professionals and young entrepreneurs in Topeka. He is a proven leader who is well respected by the people that he works with.” — Jennifer Owen Fast Forward Manager Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce
photo by Nathan Ham Photography
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photo by Nathan Ham Photography
Shanna Russell
Effective
Pine Ridge Prep Site Coordinator Pine Ridge Prep – Topeka Public Schools Age: 32 Education: Kansas State University, BS; Fort Hays State University, MS Hometown: Auburn, KS Significant Other: Ssgt. Michael McKenzie, USMC Children: Marquel (11), Mystie (8), Mashayla (6) and Maddox (5)
Best Advice Ever Received:
John Johnston and Sophie George from the Topeka Housing Authority told me when I was hiring, “just get rid of the entire job description except the little line at the bottom that says ‘other duties as assigned’ and everyone will do their jobs.”
Accomplishment Most Proud Of:
My children (I’m a mom, saying that is a must) but, other than that, the Pine Ridge Prep program. The success of this school has been because of the dedicated, caring and talented people that make it happen. People who volunteer and work here give it their all every day and because of that we are rewarded every day by the children and families, we serve. This program is for the kids and families and everything we do centers around how to make their lives the best possible.
WOW Factor:
• Gives a voice to those who are often most misunderstood. • Sunflower Hero by KSNT-TV for her work with Pine Ridge Community. • Three of her children are adopted through foster care.
“Ms. Russell is passionate, intelligent, committed and tireless. She is perfectly suited to the challenge she has taken on. She has the insight, skills and commitment needed to make change happen, and she is deeply committed to helping low-income, minority women transform their lives and the lives of their children.” — John Johnson President & CEO The Topeka Housing Authority
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Andrew Wiechen
Innovative Senior Project Manager / Designer Architect One P.A. Age: 36 Education: Kansas State University, BA Hometown: Topeka, KS Spouse: Casey Jo Wiechen Child: Mikaela (15)
Role Model:
My parents Robert and Diana Wiechen. They have instilled in me a work ethic that has made me the outgoing, determined and motivated person that I am today. They always believed that once you make up your mind about something, you complete it—you complete it without complaint and complete it with respect to those whom you surround yourself with. They taught me that being loyal and trustworthy is something that isn't solely done by telling someone "I love you," "I will get that done," and "I promise," as all are lacking of meaning if one doesn't follow up by action.
Best Advice Ever Received:
“If you want to take the island, you have to burn the boats.” – Tony Robbins
Accomplishment Most Proud of:
I'm still working on this one.
Biggest Fear: Failure
WOW Factor:
• Topeka Active 20-30. • Leadership Greater Topeka Class of 2014. • 2010 Capstone Award for Multi-Family Award Winner for Hyde Park Hotel in Midtown, Kansas City, MO. • Board Member of Diggin’ Downtown. • Study Abroad for Architecture and Built Environment in Geelong, Victoria Australia with Deakin University.
“Andrew grew up in Topeka and has chosen to make Topeka home for his family. He is a great role model for other young professionals who want to be a part of the community. He’s truly part of the new “generation Topeka” that will move our community forward into the future.” — Marsha Sheahan Vice President Public Relations Great Topeka Chamber of Commerce photo by Nathan Ham Photography
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MULTI-
GENERATIONAL WORKFORCE TRADITIONALISTS
BABY BOOMERS
GENERATION X
MILLENNIALS (GEN Y)
GENERATION Z
AGE 68-92 YRS 1922-1945
AGE 50-68 YRS 1946-1964
AGE 34-50 YRS 1964-1980
AGE 16-34 YRS 1980-1998
AGE 16 YRS & YOUNGER 1998-PRESENT
Today’s workforce is a convergence of multiple generations employed by businesses to produce a service or good. These groups often differ in their world views, values, work styles and personal and professional development. Occasionally, generational peers are plagued by underserved stereotypes from members of other generations.
Generations Defined This article explores generational characteristics, including their differences and similarities. A greater understanding of the forces at play in the members of each generation present in today’s workforce will build better working relationships.
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The oldest group among today’s workers is the Traditionalist. The most abundant groups are the Baby Boomers, Generation X and the Millennials. The youngest, smallest, yet, the one on the cusp emerging in great numbers, is Generation Z, those born near the turn of the century. Traditionalists, sometimes referred to as the World War II generation, are people born between 1922 and 1945. And, yes, some people still are working at age 90. Baby Boomers include the swell of people born after the war when Traditionalist started families. The term
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BOOM aptly describes the 76 million births in the United States from 1946 to 1964. By contrast, the only 66 million births during the 19 years following the baby boomer generation, make up the Generation X group. This period includes the Baby Bust of the 1970s. The Generation Y or Millennials, numbering approximately 72 million, is the generation of people born between 1980-1998. Newest to the workplace are members of the youngest group, Generation Z. References differ on the start of their birth
range, but most fall between the mid to late 1990’s. Undoubtedly, they have already been at least superficially encountered in the business workplace during Career Days, bring your child to work days, volunteers, or interns. The oldest of this new cohort is just starting to enter the workforce, and has yet to completely determine its work characteristics. Yet, some estimates indicate that the 18-22 year olds already account for 7% of the current workforce.
World Views and Attitudes
Each group brings a unique world view to the workplace. This world view is often characteristic of its peer members and stems from the major historical events and the heroes of the day that are shared by cohorts of a generation. World War II, the Kennedy assassination, the collapse of the Berlin Wall, the Challenger disaster, Columbine High School shootings, and the attack on the Twin Towers, continuous conflict, locally and globally, and so many other events have indelibly influenced world views for each generation. They also help shape certain values, which are then brought to the workplace. World views and personal values are formed for each generation, not only by tragedies as listed above, but by everyday occurrences spontaneously arising in cultural phenomena, science, and technology.
The experiences of the patriotism prevalent during WWII or the turmoil over civil rights or of being a latch- key kid have powerful and lasting effects. Imagine how values are altered for generations because of artists like Frank Sinatra, the Beatles, Nirvana, Michael Jackson, and Adele or novels like: To Kill a Mocking Bird, Lord of the Flies, the Harry Potter series, or The Hunger Games. Consider science; imagine the influence of penicillin, the Salk vaccine, birth control, the moon landing, organ replacements, test tube babies, the climate change debate or the capability to conduct war by remote control. Finally, technology stands tall in its impact on the workplace and the workforce and the global culture. Electric typewriters have given way to computers, to iPads. Smart phones are almost standard issue for many businesses nowadays. However these technologies are minor when compared to the Internet. Never before has the global community been as affected by anything more than it has by the Internet. Its reach is pervasive, extending into gaming, online shopping, and even electronic health records. It is not hyperbole to say that never before in human history has it been possible to communicate “with anyone, anywhere, at any time”. Not only the employment of technology, but also for comfort and
ease of using it, can be a generational issue. Digital natives, those who grew up with technology long before entering the workforce, are much more at ease than those who had to learn its use in the workplace, often from a person from a younger generation. Even absorbing the vocabulary of technology presents another layer of difference among generations. Who knew “google” would become a verb and “call me” would be replaced by “txt me”
Work Styles
Other factors that accentuate differences among the generations are work styles, views about personal and professional development, attitudes about authority figures, and rewards. We will highlight a few. The work style of the Traditionalist is one dedicated in toiling to get the job done, regardless of the personal sacrifice. The Baby Boomer likes to process, discuss and collaborate on various work projects or concerns while Generation X is more self-reliant, preferring working solo. The personal and professional development of Baby Boomers really flourishes in coaching and mentoring situations, whereas, opportunities for independent research and online selfstudy help the Generation Xer and the Millennials to grow.
continued to page 50
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GENERATION WORKPLACE TRAITS
Authority figures loom large for the Traditionalist, understandable given their GENERATION X MILLENNIALS (GEN Y) TRADITIONALISTS BABY BOOMERS World War II influences. Generation Xers, on the other Get the job done, Likes to process, More self-reliant, Independent - two way of personal discuss and collaborate preferring to work solo. learning. hand, believe two way learning WORK STYLE regardless sacrifice. on various work projects or concerns. experiences are valuable. That Follow the rules and Flourishes in coaching Independent research Wants meaningful work. PERSONAL & PROFESSIONAL is, they believe that even though prove yourself with and mentoring and online self-study. DEVELOPMENT loyalty. situations. they can learn from their boss, their boss can learn from them Expects an authority Respect for authority but Two-way learning Respects authority but BOSS EXPECTATIONS figure. not formalized. experience with their not automatically given. also. boss. People from all generations of a Enhance their future External recognition, i.e. Autonomy and freedom, RECOGNITION & Acknowledgement job well done. security, i.e. promotion, gift certificates, awards i.e. flexible work hours, want to feel valued for the REWARDS DESIRED raises and retirement ceremony. working from home. work they do. The manner of Required of job. It will help get ahead, Get a life! I decide Sure, but not all at work. recognition of their value may LONG WORK HOURS Prudent thing to do. expect more money and when, where, and how. bonuses. be different among generations given that members of each Essentials Money Time Affirmation GIVE ME MORE... generation may personally value different things. It no longer is a “one size fits all” workplace. Baby Boomers, for example, feel good job, want to be kept in the loop about generation’s work style, personal and valued when they are rewarded in ways matters that concern them and want clear professional undertaking, and even its that enhance their future security, i.e., communication about their employer’s response to authority and rewards offered promotions/raises and retirement. expectations of them. by businesses. Nonetheless, they all desire Generation X’s value the external The approach members of various the organizations for which they to be recognition, i.e., gift certificate, awards generations take to achieve business goals successful. ceremony. While the Millennials want to may look different; after all, each person The successful manager understands be rewarded with more autonomy and has been influenced by the momentous and respects the unique characteristics freedom, i.e. flexible work hours, working historical events in his/her life that have that each generation brings to the at home. affected one’s world view and value organization and leverages those qualities system. Likewise, the impact of significant to insure a successful working relationship cultural phenomena, the advancement of among employees and the success of the science, and the explosion of technology organization. TK cannot be understated as shaping a Given how different generational characteristics are, it may be easy to slip into stereotypic thinking. Some pitfalls are that others are judged solely on age. Occasionally, members of one generation routinely complain about members of other generations. This can go up or down generations. It is counterproductive when employees and employers consistently dismiss ideas offered by younger or older colleagues. Differing generational work photo by Megan Rogers Photographie styles may easily be misinterpreted as disengagement or lack of interest in work Robert Boncella is a Professor of Computer Carol Boncella is a research associate with by members of other generations. Information Systems in the School of Business Washburn University School of Business. She Yet, like it or not, most businesses at Washburn University. He is the Director of has presented guest lectures at Washburn have a mixed bag of ages in their human the MBA Program at Washburn University and University on Managing Generations in the a visiting professor at Wuhan University of Workplace, Working with Difficult People, and resource pool. Despite their differences, Science and Technology in Wuhan, China and Conducting Effective Meetings. members of all generations want to do a the University of Galati in Galati, Romania
Opportunities for Managers and Employers
Robert Boncella, PhD
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Carol Boncella, MA, RN
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Miniature art Show Nov. 1, 2014 – Dec. 31, 2014
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TK BUSINESS
EXPERTS Michael R. Munson
Gay, Riordan, Fincher, Munson, & Sinclair Law Firm
Kurt Guth
American Tax Service, Inc.
Karl Klein
Washburn Small Business Development Center
Alissa Menke
jones huyett Partners
photos by Megan Rogers Photographie
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Expert: Legal
4
Q.Q. When should A.
my business seek legal counsel?
The time to get competent counsel is before you need it.
An Ounce of Prevention
Your business is sued. You receive notice of an impending audit from the Internal Revenue Service. You need legal counsel, and you need it fast! This scenario is ugly, but not uncommon. Often situations that devolve into serious problems for business owners could have been avoided had legal counsel been sought as part of the overall planning for the business or a particular transaction. The preemptive use of business or tax lawyers is often vastly less expensive than hiring attorneys once a situation has reached the “crisis” stage.
arl Klein,
Michael R. Munson, J.D., Partner
photo by Megan Rogers Photographie
Gay, Riordan, Fincher, Munson, & Sinclair Law Firm
AREAS YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS LEGAL PRE-PLANNING
1. Forming Your Business Entity
Poor entity formation planning is like building your company on a flawed foundation. A number of very practical issues need to be addressed up-front when starting any business: • What entity type? You need to know whether a limited liability company, corporation, or some limited partnership form will maximize efficiency and mitigate risk. • Who has the final say if owners disagree? Addressing a number of operational issues in the operating agreements of LLC’s or partnerships or in the by-laws of a corporation goes a long way toward better harmony amongst owners once the “honeymoon” phase is over. • How can a business co-owner sell an interest and exit the business? Whether other owners and/or the company itself will have preemptive rights to buy out a parting owner, and at what price, should be addressed in the entity’s governing documents.
2. Taking On Additional Investors
Admitting new investors as owners can introduce significant issues. Making sure that a new investor has had a chance to make an accurate and full review of the financial and operational condition of your business and then having this fact correctly documented by legal counsel through a subscription agreement and other corollary documents is essential. Absent this diligence, it is very possible that a future lawsuit against your business is in the works.
3. Unexpected Tragedies
Planning for the untimely death or disability of a co-owner of a business is important. When an owner dies or becomes disabled, the future success of a business may depend upon not having to deal with that owner’s power of attorney holder (in the event of disability) or
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personal representative or ultimate heirs (in the event of death). “Buy-Sell” agreements setting forth when an owner’s interest is automatically repurchased by other owners or the business is usually the best approach in dealing with this problem.
4. Business Succession
Advance planning for this inevitability is almost always cheaper than leaving problems for lawyers to clean up later. Make sure the business is not unduly tied up in the probate process and make effective tax planning decisions. • The probate process can be avoided by planning for the ownership interests of a business to be owned by, or transfer-on– death, to a trust established by the owner during his or her life. Estate planning documents that set forth how a trustee of a trust will manage the business interest, along with a methodology to get the business interest sold or transferred to heirs at some future point, are critical. • Estate tax laws have been overhauled such that an individual who gave no prior taxable gifts during lifetime can leave approximately $5.34 million worth of assets estate tax free at death (in 2014). A married couple therefore can effectively leave $10.68 million in assets to their heirs collectively. Most closely held businesses will fall under these values. • While methods exist for paying estate taxes over a period of years where closely held business interests compose a significant part of the estate, our experience is that avoiding long-term agreements with the Internal Revenue Service for the payment of taxes is generally preferable. With insufficient lifetime planning, certain businesses that were supposed to be passed down to successors end up in a forced sale position.
Lisa R. Manley, CFP® Waddell & Reed, Inc. Financial Planning is an essential piece of the retirement puzzle. Lisa R. Manley, CFP® helps her clients make that connection. While females may be the minority in this industry, they can offer a unique perspective. “I think women can often be better listeners. We are more open to talking about the emotional side of investment planning,” Lisa said. “I want people to feel comfortable, and I try to keep the experience on a personal level rather than technical.” Having been in the industry for 14 years, Lisa achieved her Certified Financial Planner (CFP) Certification in 2011. There are not many in the Topeka area with this achievement. The achievement provided Lisa the opportunity to be an example to her two children, showing them that the education process will continue throughout their lifetime. Lisa is currently studying for the Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA) Certification. This certification will allow her to assist her clients in the divorce process beyond the help that the client may receive from their attorney. Each individual’s financial picture is much like a puzzle made up of different life factors; retirement, educating our children, life insurance, long-term-care insurance, etc. Lisa’s goal is to create an environment that champions excellence by helping her clients achieve their goals and complete their financial picture. “As a connected community, we strive to empower and encourage one another, sharing our expertise, and expanding our perspective,” Lisa said. “Together, we can achieve great things.”
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Expert: Business Tax
Q.Q. What should I
A.
watch out for on my 2014 business tax return?
The biggest topic on most business owners’ minds is how their businesses will be affected by the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The good news is that the Employer Shared Responsibility provisions (the mandate) have been delayed for businesses until 2015, and then only those with 99 or more employees will be required to supply health insurance costs for workers. Those businesses with 50 or more employees won’t be affected until 2016, and those with less than 50 are exempt from the mandate.
More good news!
If your business has 25 or fewer employees and your average workforce’s wage is less than $50,000 per year, you may qualify for a health insurance tax credit. However, the credit can only be claimed if you meet a pretty complex set of requirements—only about one-third will qualify. The main gist is that the mandate has been delayed or eliminated for most businesses in our community.
photo by Megan Rogers Photographie
KarlKurt Klein,Guth, EA, CISA, Corporate Officer American Tax Service, Inc.
1099-MISC FORM
Follow the rules or be prepared to pay big. The 1099-Misc form is extremely important to the IRS. If you deduct independent contractor payments on your business tax return, it’s likely that you should report the payment on a 1099Misc form. Generally, you should issue a 1099-Misc for any vendor you use that is not incorporated on the Federal level—just having an LLC in Kansas doesn’t satisfy the corporate filing requirement. It’s best to have the vendor complete a W-9 form before any work is completed. Conversely, be prepared to receive a 1099-Misc if you perform contractor
A Primer on 2014 Tax Law Changes Don’t deduct that!
SECTION 179 CHANGES
Expensing assets is limited in 2014 to
$25,000*
It’s expired.
Bonus depreciation on new purchases is no longer available.
* 1/20th of last year’s limit!
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MILEAGE RATE ¢ 56 per mile*
* down from 56.5¢
work. Even if you don’t receive a 1099, you are required to report the income you made. Audit techniques are designed to catch unreported income and this is a particularly touchy area with the IRS.
Work with Your Tax Professional. Help me help you.
Accountants are reviewers, consultants and tax law gurus. As such, our rates are pretty steep when you use us as file clerks and bookkeepers. Bringing in unorganized records causes us to do a lot of pre-work on a tax return which is a waste of our time and your money. We want you to see your financial statements as decision making tools and can teach you to rely on them, not fear them. Ask your accountant for a profit and loss template if you are not using accounting software. Total the expense categories and insert them into the spreadsheet. Anything that is questionable should be a discussion item. Present all of your year-end statements, mileage logs and asset purchase records. Ensure bank and loan statements are available if needed. Your organization will allow for a more pleasant once-a-year experience. Elevate your game and let your accountant help you grow your business.
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winter 2014
www.envistacu.com
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Expert: Entrepreneurship
4 1.
2. 3. 4.
MYTHS of Entrepeneurship “My great invention will make me rich.” In general, it’s really not about what you have created, but more about how you build market share, brand your product or service, and the creation of value for your customers that will help you achieve financial rewards.
“Keeping a business idea a secret is critical to success.”
For most business ideas, discussion is very beneficial in obtaining valuable feedback, additional thoughts, ideas, and creating connections with believers who can be brought on board to help spread the good news about your venture.
“It takes large sums of money to start a new business.”
Many small businesses “bootstrap” their startup and use very little capital in getting their business off the ground. For a litany of low cost new venture success stories, read “The $100 Startup” by Chris Gilliebeau.
“I’ll make lots of money owning my own business.”
New businesses can take some time to grow and prosper. It is important to invest in a new venture you will enjoy in those early formative years while working your way to maximizing the business income. Keep in mind, it may not be all about the money along your journey.
Karl KarlKlein, Klein, Regional Director
Washburn Small Business Development Center
Q. A.
I want to start my own business. Where do I begin?
One of the first critical steps to take when making the leap to start your own business is to be honest with yourself about your commitment. Assessing a new venture requires follow through and due diligence for making the best possible decisions. When starting your new venture, take full advantage of the available resources for small businesses right here at home. We are fortunate in Topeka to have some great small business resources.
photo by Megan Rogers Photographie
The Topeka Shawnee County Public Library
The library has an outstanding small business reference section online and inhouse to help with your research needs. Top picks for online research and material are the Business Reference Center for general information, Reference USA for knowing your competition, and Business Decisions for demographics and market data.
Go Topeka and Entrepreneurial Minority Business Development (EMBD)
Touch base with this organization to access area business knowledge, financial resources, micro loans, and classes for starting your small business and developing business strategies. The EMBD offers a tremendous conduit for small business networking.
Topeka SCORE
Connect with mentors from the local Topeka SCORE chapter for business assistance and mentoring, or attend one of their Roundtable Workshop events held the first Saturday of every month on the Washburn Tech campus. See topeka.score.org.
Washburn University Small Business Development Center (WUSBDC)
Discuss your plans with one of the consultants from the WUSBDC in a no cost consulting session. The WUSBDC provides a wide range of consulting services that include assistance with starting a business or buying an existing business.
3 Ways Entrepreneurship Is Like Poker
1. Don’t go all in before testing the water. In poker, this is placing small bets to see trends and patterns. In business, this involves gathering information, market testing, and analyzing the business landscape to be in the best position for playing your hand. 2. Know when to change your play. Even the best game plan may need significant deviation for a win. Be prepared to adapt your business plan as your business evolves. 3. Learn the habits of your opponents. In business, this means know your competition. Know what they do well, what you will do well, and develop your winning tactics.
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Expert: Internet
Q. A.
How does online tracking work?
There’s been a lot in the news this year about online privacy—Big Brother and the National Security Administration (NSA) following you around on the Internet. By now you’re aware that a lot of what you do while surfing the net is being tracked. In fact, unless you’ve made modifications to your web browser (or you use Google Chrome’s Incognito mode), pretty much everything you do online is tracked. To most, that probably seems creepy, but there’s value in it for you, and your company can benefit from it too. Tracking occurs when a website places “cookies” on your web browser (like Google Chrome, FireFox or Internet Explorer) or profile (like your Google account through Gmail, YouTube, etc.). These cookies are little chunks of online code that run in the background and collect information that’s sent back to the tracking service. On the personal side, online tracking can improve your Internet experience. Many websites you visit are free to access because of the digital ads. Since the ads are going to be there, you might as well have ads and messaging that interests you.
What information can be tracked while I'm online?
ü ALLOWED
l Websites you’ve visited l Searches you’ve done l Webpages you've landed on
photo by Megan Rogers Photographie
KarlAlissa Klein,Menke, Senior Digital Strategist jones huyett Partners
How can online tracking benefit my business? A common form of tracking is website analytics software, like Google’s Universal Analytics. (It’s free and widely used.) With analytics software you can get a good picture of the people visiting your website and make some insights.
■ How many people are visiting?
■ How long are visitors on your site, and where are they within the site when they choose to leave?
X OFF LIMITS
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Knowing the length of a visitor’s experience and the content they were looking at when they left helps you identify weak spots on your website.
■ What content did visitors interact with the most?
l Name l Social Security Number l Email Address l IP Address l Financial Information
Knowing how many people visit (or don’t visit) your site allows you to set a benchmark for improvement and determine the right amount of time/money to invest in it.
This helps you find the content people consume most and focus on making it great and producing more of it.
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■ What drove visitors to your site?
If you’re spending money on digital ads, knowing which ones drive good visitors to your site helps you know where to invest your advertising dollars.
■ How were visitors viewing your site?
Knowing when people are looking and what device they used will help ensure your site is best suited to their experience.
■ How can online tracking improve my digital ad placements?
If you buy digital advertising, you can use cookies and online tracking to better target your ad buy. This allows you to make the most efficient use of your advertising budget because you won’t waste ad impressions on people who aren’t in your target audience.
Read more from Alissa at www.tkmagazine.com
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Online Learning Resources www.isgtech.com/resources winter 2014
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“One of the best things I learned was to get rid of the negatives.” — Juli Cuthbertson
r u
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Juli Cuthbertson Juli’s Coffee and Bistro Winter 2014
TK Business Magazine
By Wendy Long
Photos by Bethany Hughes Juli loves her coffee. And she loves her business. But she really loves her people— from the die-hard coffee drinkers, to the frazzled lunch crowd, to the weekend brunchers. “That is one of the greatest things about me and my shop. I build relationships with people,” Juli said. “I know their kids’ names. I know what is going on in their lives. They talk to me about things and I love that.” And the feeling is mutual. Which is why her customers keep coming back – and bringing the people they love. “With our family, it has become a tradition to go to Juli’s on Saturdays for lunch after my daughter’s gymnastics class,” said Noble Morrell of Topeka. “Juli (a K-Stater) is a real jokester and loves to tease my son about being a KU fan. We always have a good time when we go there. It is all about creating good memories together.” For almost 10 years, Juli Cuthbertson has owned and operated a coffee shop in Northeast Kansas. Now in downtown Topeka, she has a bustling bistro and catering business to boot. Her new location in the historic downtown building is ideal for breakfast through lunch hours with large windows and an open inviting atmosphere in the main area. She also has a ballroom in the back that is ideal for smaller parties and groups. It all started with her first little coffee shop in Rossville, which she opened shortly after the birth of her daughter,
Macy. Juli and husband Curt had planned on her staying home as a full-time mom. But that didn’t work out so well. “It just wasn’t healthy for me,” Juli said. She soon realized she really needed to work outside of the home to be the best mom she could be. So Macy (then almost a year and a half) went to play with friends at a local family day care while Juli opened her little coffee shop. “My life was once again balanced and back to ‘normal’,” she said. When Curt’s job moved them to Junction City, Juli opened a coffee shop there. When they finally ended up in Topeka however, Juli was intimidated by the size of the city, so she started a coffee shop in Wamego. After a year there, she was ready for the move to Topeka and opened Juli’s Coffee Shop & Bistro at Huntoon and Gage. With each shop opening (and closing), Juli learned many lessons— some harder than others, but all effective nonetheless. She learned business savvy and efficiency. She learned to value her time and resources, and to not just give them away. She learned to surround herself with people who are positive and hard working. “One of the best things I learned was to get rid of the negatives,” Juli said. For three years, she maintained a nice little shop with great food and great service. But she still felt like her business was not expanding like she knew it could. She felt like she had all the right components in place, but something was still missing. “Curt and I have learned if something is not coming together, we need to stop. Renegotiate,” Juli said.
Juli started doing some renegotiating and research. She watched the traffic. She ate at the local establishments. She found out 30,000 people spend every workday from early morning until evening in an 8-block radius. “This wasn’t just happenchance. It wasn’t like the planets lined up and I decided to move here,” Juli said. “It was more like ‘Okay. I serve breakfast and lunch; I need to get where those people are.’” So Juli made the move to downtown Topeka. After years of hard work and positive energy, everything finally came together. She has all the right people in all the right places. From her knowledgeable food rep to her local delivery guy, Pat, who is retired and always available. And even husband, Curt, who is involved with his award-winning barbecue team.
“It is like sunesis where all of the rivers of understanding flow together,” Juli said. “Everything just came together.” Since moving to its new location, not only has Juli’s shop thrived but her catering business has also drastically expanded. They now handle around eight deliveries a week, which includes breakfasts, box lunches and sandwich platters. With a well-trained staff to handle the shop business, Julie has time to focus on “more specialized stuff.” She has numerous wedding receptions and Christmas parties scheduled in the ballroom, and she is catering other events like an upcoming barn party in Silver Lake. With all the good stuff happening, her greatest challenge now is balancing work and home life. “Sometimes I have to force myself to leave and go home, because it is really easy to get wrapped up,” Juli said. “It is just like anything else, you want to do more of it. I have to work on not being here. I can always find stuff to do. It is really about keeping balance. Because if I allow it to, it will overwhelm me.” All the years of hard work, good service and positive energy are certainly paying off. “Everything I have done up until now was to get me ready for this,” said Juli. “This is my perfect storm. In a good way.”
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SCENE ABOUT TOWN
Junior Achievement Announcement Brunch Topeka Country Club 1 September 9, 2014 PHOTO 1 Greg Schwerdt, Schwerdt Design Group; Laura Schwerdt, Schwerdt Contract Interiors; Ed & Loretta Schwerdt
PHOTO 2
John Dicus, Capitol Federal Savings; Brenda Dicus and Jack Dicus
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Jim Parrish, Parrish Management; Bob Washatka, The Great Game of Business; Mark Kossler, Fidelity State Bank & Trust; B. Kent Garlinghouse, M-C Industries
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Gary Newberry, AmeriPride; Mitch Miller, Dynamic Computer Solutions; Bob Young, Blue Cross Blue Shield; Stephanie Luke, Mize Houser
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Jeff Wietharn, Coffman, Defries & Nothern; Vince Fry, Downtown Topeka, Inc.; Paula Landoll-Smith, Landoll Corporation
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John Stauffer; Noel Etzel, Jetz Service; Marc Shepherd, Copeland Insurance; Justin Glasgow, Performance Tire
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David Sollars, Washburn University School of Business; Harry Craig, Craig Group, Inc.; Kay Craig; Lt. Col. Chris Gnagi, 190th Air Refueling Wing
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Tracy Broxterman, Patti Bossert, Jamie Stafford, Hannah Bossert, Paul Bossert of Premier Employment Solutions and Key Staffing
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Topeka Business Hall of Fame presented by
Congratulations to the Class of 2015 Laureates:
Patti Bossert
John B. Dicus
Steve Briman
Greg Schwerdt
Premier Employment Solutions
Bartlett & West
Capitol Federal
Schwerdt Design Group
Celebrate these leaders Thursday, March 5, 2015 Ramada Topeka Downtown 785.235.3700 or amy@kansasja.org
Dr. Shekhar Challa &
If this is how you rolled back then..
It’s time for your colonoscopy.
GASTROENTEROLOGY
Call today to schedule 785.354.8518
www.kmcpa.com | store.kmcpa.com
Dr. Shekhar Challa
Dr. Balaji Datti
Laura Welborn, APRN-C
Traci Hoffman, APRN-C
Jill Powell, PA-C
Susan Lueger, APRN-C
KANSAS MEDICAL CLINIC GASTROENTEROLOGY 2200 SW 6th Ave, Topeka, KS 785.354.8518 winter 2014
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Carol Bradbury, Bloomerang and Emma Starkey, Heartland Visioning
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Sara Fizell, ARTS Connect; and Jason Fizell, St. Francis Health Foundation
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Renita Harris, My Company, Inc. and Glenda Duboise, Marian Clinic
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Lucy Ramirez and Diana Ramirez, Express Employment Professionals
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Youth Entrepreneurs BizConnect Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library September 30, 2014
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Katie Hall, Youth Entrepreneurs and Kaitlyn Truesdell, Youth Entrepreneurs Topeka High Alumna
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Tommi Soto and David Walker, Topeka High School Youth
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Warren Wilson, Megan Risetter, and Jennifer Risetter
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Jeff Taylor, PT's Coffee and United States Barista Competition
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2014 • 5PM • DOWNTOWN TOPEKA
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9 TH ANNUAL MKA RESCUE RUN 5K RUN & 1.5 MILE WALK
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Women of Influence - Women's Initiative Recognition Reception Capital Plaza Hotel September 30, 2014
Brought to you by
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Downtown Topeka, Inc. 50th Anniversary Gala Downtown Ramada October 6, 2014
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Kari Erpelding, Angel Romero and Jennifer Owen
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Ryan Mowinkle, Ann Adams and Jim Rinner
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Elizabeth Young and Barbara Heller
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Earl Kemper, Kymm Hughes and Julie & Richard Liedtke
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HR & Connie Cook, Shelly Buhler and Roger Schwisow
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Marsha Sheahan, Mitch Miller, Adrianne Evans and Phil Tysinger
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Karen Wagaman, Betty Lou Pardue and Teresa Kuszak
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The Last Word
Keith Warta, P.E. President ǀ Bartlett & West What is the most important ability a leader should have?
The ability to listen. It shows that you respect other’s opinions, but just as important, you can learn much more by listening.
What does employee-ownership mean for Bartlett & West?
Give us the skinny on you.
I am an engineer, a fourth generation K-Stater and I’ve been a part of Bartlett & West for three decades. Over the years, I have been fortunate enough to move into different roles and, in reality, I’ve had multiple careers with the same company. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and attending sporting events.
What companies do you admire the most?
The New Belgium Brewing Company is a great example of a company that effectively empowers employees through ownership. They involve everyone in important activities like strategic planning, and have regular discussions focused on the financials. New Belgium also makes beer, which is a huge plus! Locally, Capitol Federal does an outstanding job of supporting our community, and Westar is making a difference through their many local interactions including a focus on science, technology, engineering and mathematics education.
In a word—empowerment. We believe that a company is much more likely to grow, to perpetuate itself, to create thoughtful solutions, if everyone thinks like an owner, not just a handful. At Bartlett & West, all of us are working for ourselves, our co-workers, our families and our communities. Employee ownership has transformed our company. Bartlett & West has been included on industry expert ZweigWhite’s Top 100 Hot Firms list for the last four years, and we intend to keep growing and continue innovating. We are now one of the top 200 largest design companies in the country. We are trying to make ownership real, not just a tag line on the logo. Ownership has become a natural part of our daily discussions—everyone has a voice. We discuss things like, “Does it make sense to spend money on an initiative?” “If we hire this person, will she become a good owner?” “What should our long-term strategy be?” These are all questions that we ask various owners to answer on a regular basis to make ownership real.
Bartlett & West has continued to grow both in services and in locations, what are three reasons this expansion has continued over the last 63 years?
1. Employee ownership. Every part of our company must convey our employee-ownership belief—it’s the key to our success. 2. Associating ourselves with the right people. We want to have the right people in our company and we want to work with the right partners. 3. Strategic planning. We strive to be strategic in everything that we do. Strategic planning forces us to focus our resources on the greatest opportunities.
What is one quirky belief that you have?
I think everything looks better in purple. Go Cats!
At this point in your life and career, what do you know for sure?
Relationships matter. Developing trust is important whether it’s with coworkers, clients or others in your life. It’s important to continue learning. I started out my career in a highly technical position and now my daily focus is business-related. The two are worlds apart, but I prepared myself for each. If you have initiative, you can overcome TK many shortcomings.
Read more from Keith Warta at www.tkmagazine.com
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