TK Business Magazine - November 2021 Issue

VETERAN OWNED BUSINESSES | MOMENTUM 2022 | DESTINATION RETAIL | BENEFITS OF BUYING LOCAL NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

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CONTENTS

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TK BUSINESS MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

VETERAN OWNED BUSINESSES

Local business owners share their journey from military service to entrepreneurship.

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PG.

LISTEN. DESIGN. INSPIRE.

Architecture Inspired by the Surrounding Nature ‘Conserving Youth - Preserving Nature’ has been the mission of The Villages since they were founded in 1964. We are excited to share their administrative and education services will soon be relocating to a new 21,000 sf building on their existing 360-acre property.

Critical to the design process, the leadership team of The Villages required the new building to respect the site and take full advantage of the view. Our team at Architect One developed a design that amplifies the natural light and capitalizes on the surrounding views of the beautiful rural setting in which the building is encased. The contemporary style maximizes the practical use of natural building materials in a modern, efficient way to optimize the functional space included in the design.

Architect One is honored to be leading the design team and a trusted advisor for The Villages, to bring their dream facility to life as they continue providing the children in their care a safe environment to promote growth at all times.

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CONTENTS

TK BUSINESS MAGAZINE | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

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20 UNDER 40

Meet this year’s 20 Under 40 honorees.

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MOMENTUM 2022

Photo By JOHN BURNS

Explore the progress of Momentum 2022 and the areas that hope to be addressed in the future.

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DESTINATION RETAIL

Photo By EMMA HIGHFILL

When you are out and about this holiday season looking for gifts for friends and family, don’t forget about Topeka’s hidden retail gems.

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Manaf Sellak with Washburn University School of Business shares the economic benefits of supporting local business.

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CONTRIBUTORS

PUBLISHER

Tara Dimick

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Lisa Loewen

CREATIVE DIRECTOR & DESIGNER

Janet Faust

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

MARKETING DIRECTOR & SALES Ally Oakes ally@tkmagazine.com

COVER PHOTOGRAPHER

WRITERS

Vince Cox Samantha Egan Connor England Andrea Etzel Lindsay Freeman Kim Gronniger Katie Kapal Misty Kruger Jessica Lehnherr Ally Oakes Eric Smith Adam Vlach Kathy Webber

PHOTOGRAPHERS

John Burns Emma Highfill

EXPERT

2021 TK Business Magazine is published by E2 Communications, Inc., 7512 SW Falcon St., Topeka, KS 66610, (785) 438-7773.

Reproduction or use of this publication in any manner without written permission of the publisher is prohibited.

Every effort was made to ensure accuracy of the information in this publication as of press time. The publisher assumes no responsibility of any part for the content of any advertisement in this publication, including any errors and omissions

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therein. E2 Communications, Inc. makes no endorsement, representation or warranty regarding any goods or services advertised or listed in this publication. Listings and advertisements are provided by the subject company. E2 Communications, Inc. shall not be responsible or liable for any inaccuracy, omission or infringement of any third party’s right therein, or for personal injury or any other damage or injury whatsoever. By placing an order for an advertisement, the advertiser agrees to indemnify the publisher against any claims relating to the advertisement.

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IN THIS ISSUE TK is crafted to inspire readers by showcasing innovation, growth and leadership right here in Topeka.

When you read the pages of this issue it is filled with fighters that are leading, innovating and growing.

From young professionals striving to make their mark, to Momentum that is bringing people together and working toward a common goal, to retail owners who are the core of the business community and have had nothing if not a unique 18 months as they navigated the ups and downs of Covid but are still standing, still fighting, and finally, those individuals that literally fought for us and our country who are now entrepreneurs using the skills they gained from their military service to invest in our community. This is an issue of hope and inspiration for what the future holds.

While at times we seem so divided, it is at our core that we want a better community and that we are willing to fight for it.

I hope you join us and fight with them and for them by buying local and celebrating the heart of the entrepreneur.

—Lisa Loewen Editor-in-Chief TK Business Magazine

@TK...Topeka's Business Magazine

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Get expert business advice and up-to-date information on business in Topeka at TKmagazine.com. Send your news releases to news@tkmagazine.com.

BUSINESS NEWS

Women of Influence The following women were honored at the Seventh Annual Women of Influence Awards for their leadership, mentorship, creativity, innovation and commitment to their work and their community. The event was hosted by GO Topeka and the Women’s Initiative Committee, and sponsored by Envista Credit Union.

Woman of Influence Honorees: Melissa Brunner, WIBW Lucy Opit, Midwest Barber College Outstanding Entrepreneur Honoree: Cheryl Clark, Dare to Dream Breakthrough Business Award Honorees: Leslie Fleuranges, Tender Loving Care Pet Nursing Hotel Darlene Morgan, Milk & Honey Coffee Co. Distinguished Mentor Honoree: Rhonda Harris, Kansas Department of Commerce Community Service Honoree: Lauren Tice Miller, Office of Kansas State Treasurer Lynn Rogers Rising Star Honoree: Grace Clinton, Helping Hands Humane Society Education Honoree: Carla Pratt, Washburn University School of Law Emeritus Award Honoree: Kak Eli-Schneider, (retired) Washburn Rural

Reliant Apparel Earns Certification as Minority Business Enterprise Reliant Apparel, a Blackowned and Woman-owned business founded in 2011, has earned certification by the State of Kansas as a Minority Business Enterprise.

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2021 Coolest Thing Made In Kansas Winner Announced After eight weeks of competition, the Kansas Manufacturing Council (KMC) announced the Hometown Pie Company is the winner of the 2021 Coolest Thing Made In Kansas.

Amy Klotz Named to Top 100 List For Females in Finance For the first time, Amy Klotz, Advisors Excel Chief Financial Officer, was included in The Top 100 Women Leaders in Finance of 2021. Klotz debuted on the list published by Women We Admire at number 44.

This year’s awardees were nominated and selected for their achievements. These women are trailblazers in the industry, focused on making progress in a sector where they continue to be under-represented.

New Hires & Promotions Ranae Baum Joins Vision Bank as Mortgage Loan Processor India Yarborough Joins Greater Topeka Partnership as Communication Manager Carol Baber Joins Mize CPAs Inc. as Audit Shareholder MyKel Rodriguez Joins Landmark National Bank as Retail Banking Coordinator and Bank Manager Regina Platt Joins YWCA as Racial Justice and Advocacy Director Terry Wright Joins Envista as Vice President of Mortgage Service Jamie Beaton Promoted by Envista to Vice President of Member Experience Anita Fry Promoted by Stormont Vail to Vice President of Marketing & Communications Melissa Sowers Joins Visit Topeka as Vice President of Convention Sales & Marketing

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The Jayhawk Area Council, Boy Scouts of America celebrates its 12th year of honoring “Topeka’s Top 20 Under 40” to recognize young professionals who are impacting the future of Topeka in a positive way.

This year’s honorees serve, lead, give and inspire. Learn more about these 20 young leaders and what motivates them to go above and beyond.

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Written and compiled by Katie Koupal, Misty Kruger, Andrea Etzel, Connor England, Jessica Lehnherr, Vince Cox, Lindsay Freeman, Ally Oakes Photos by JOHN BURNS

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Photo by JOHN BURNS

LETIFFANY

OBOZELE

Chief of Prosecution Legal Department for the City of Topeka LeTiffany is responsible for criminal case appeals to Kansas District and Appellate Courts.

She also provides legal guidance to the city’s elected officials and employees. LeTiffany previously worked for the Douglas County District Attorney, the Office of the Kansas Attorney General, and the Sedgwick County District Attorney.

Originally from Virginia, LeTiffany fell in love with Topeka while attending Washburn Law. A proud Kansan, by choice, she is committed to staying and actively contributing to Topeka’s present and future. She is a member of the City of Topeka Core Team for the Kansas Leadership Center, a member of the Topeka Bar Association, and Sam A. Crow Inn of Court. LeTiffany is on the Board of Directors, Leadership Team, and the Health Heard for Forge Young Professionals. She also is the Topeka representative for the Kansas African American Museum Board of Directors and is the rotating host for KTWU’s I’ve Got Issues program.

With what little additional free time she has, she is also an adjunct professor at Washburn Law where she teaches trial advocacy and coaches the Washburn Law School trial team.

What is the biggest professional goal you have accomplished?

Right now, I think it’s quite simply becoming a better leader day by day, learning to manage myself, and becoming more self-aware.

Listening and observing more than I speak.

Seeking advice to be better, continue to grow, and become more knowledgeable. Learning from those who have institutional knowledge of the organization and creating avenues for all to learn those things. Determining how people best learn and helping them succeed.

It’s also been taking time for self-care and

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spending quality time enjoying the company of my friends and family and this community I get to be a part of. You can’t pour from an empty cup.

What advice do you have for future leaders?

“Give yourself permission to learn.” I tend to be harder on myself than anyone could ever be. So, when I was stepping into my new role, all I could see was what I was doing wrong/ didn’t know/still had to learn/what I could do better, etc. Somehow someone telling me

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that simple phrase helped me not take myself too seriously and know that as you learn, sometimes you knock it out of the park, and other times you keep growing and adjusting, and as you know more, you become better, and do better. It really allowed me to take the pressure off myself and be kinder to myself.

If you could own stock in any business in Topeka, which would it be?

Architect One…they seem to be investing in Topeka and creating and renovating to make Topeka even cooler!

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DERIK

FLERLAGE

Infectious Disease Division Manager Shawnee County Health Department As Infectious Disease Division Manager for the Shawnee County Health Department, Derik has certainly overcome many obstacles and challenges in the last year and a half.

Derik helps oversee operations of the County Health Department in tandem with the incident command team concerning COVID-19 response.

As Deputy Chief of COVID-19 Operations, he works side by side with the health officer to ensure proper data evaluation and management as well as implementing mitigation strategies and other techniques to dampen the spread of infectious disease in Shawnee County. He has worked to ensure safety for our most vulnerable in our long-term care community, health care systems, schools and beyond.

His tireless work doesn’t just stop with the COVID-19 response. He serves on Heartland Healthy Neighborhoods, Communities of Care and the Shawnee County Parks and Recreation Advisory Board to help mobilize community engagement to take action on health priorities to promote health and wellness for everyone in Shawnee County.

What led you to this career?

I was lucky to spend many years in the hospital setting, first as a phlebotomist and then as a registered respiratory therapist.

I will attribute this to acclimatizing me to high-stress situations. Whether it was managing someone’s breathing in the emergency room or neonatal ICU, or when a trauma was brought in, I learned from some of the best in these settings. As COVID-19 began to ramp up, I was working in the nursing home setting to implement strategies to protect our residents and staff.

I felt called to public service and wanted to offer any help that I could. It was then that I joined the health department.

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What has challenged you?

Professionally, it was the creation of the Infectious Disease Division in the middle of a pandemic. As I joined the health department and while trying to manage the COVID-19 pandemic, I was also developing and structuring a brand new division. This included the hiring of staff; determining who reports to who, who manages and does what; establishing how we are funded; etc. It taught me a great deal about communication with others.

I wanted to surround myself with greatness and experience to assist me in directing this new division

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together. There was/is no room for egos.

How do you make a bad day good?

I am inherently optimistic. Like…

SUPER optimistic. I try to always see the positive side of things and keep a cool and calm attitude when things aren’t going right. I really enjoy the readings/ teachings of Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus and “Stoicism.” Essentially, I only have control over what I have control over. I always try to be a bright bulb in a dim room. In fact, I don’t think I can go to one meeting without trying to get everyone to smile in some manner.

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ERIN

ALDRIDGE Executive Director The Library Foundation Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library Erin works to provide opportunities for community members to “live their best life.” Programs and services like the Rainforest Adventure, Bookmobiles and Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library would not be possible without the support of The Library Foundation. Erin collaborates and engages foundation trustees in guiding growth, investment, and usage of assets and financial resources. In her first year, Erin outpaced contributions from the three prior years by over 50% despite the pandemic.

Erin is no stranger to Topeka’s 20 Under 40. For over seven years she was the Development Director for the Jayhawk Area Council, Boy Scouts of America and stewarded the signature fundraiser to where it is today. As a volunteer with Junior League of Topeka since 2014, Erin has held several roles including president. Erin also serves as the Committee Chair for Scouts BSA Troop 12, one of the first Scouts BSA Troops for girls in the Shawnee County area in addition to being an active parent with the Topeka Swim Association.

What would you tell future leaders?

Enjoy the journey. You’re never too young to make an impact but know that there are others who have come before you who are willing to guide you along the way.

What advice would you give yourself 10 years ago?

Keep a journal. In the past 10

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years I have done so many things personally and professionally, that I sometimes forget (until Facebook reminds me).

Best book you have read?

Burnt Toast by Terri Hatcher. It was a refreshing way to look at the fact that we as moms sometimes ‘eat the burnt toast’ because we don’t want to waste it, but it’s not wasteful to want more for ourselves.

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Who is your role model?

I am blessed to have many personal and professional role models in my life, but there are four who continue to make a considerable impact in my life. Marsha Sheahan, Brenda Rodvelt, Tara Dimick and Marlou Wegener. These women have poured into my life in ways that they could have never imagined, and I am so thankful and blessed for their guidance and insight.

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JAMES

BARRACLOUGH

Director of Undergraduate Initiatives Washburn University

Photo by JOHN BURNS

What is your most proud accomplishment at Washburn University?

The fact that I have been able to incorporate a holistic approach to supporting students in both curricular and co-curricular endeavors. Academic success is at the heart of what we do in education but that simply does not happen if we are not able to support the whole student. Knowing that a mindset of holistic student support is at the core of programs from my unit is something I take great pride in.

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What goal are you working toward?

I met my wife here in Topeka and we now have two beautiful children who were born here.

Topeka is home. Our 6-year-old daughter enjoys dance, soccer and basketball. Over the next few years I am looking forward to becoming the best “dance/soccer/basketball dad” that I can be, in addition to watching our 2-year old son continue to grow into his outgoing and happy personality.

What makes you unique?

My friends, students, and colleagues alike have all shared with me that I have an uncanny ability to use questions to help people arrive at their own TK Business Magazine

James coordinates the First-Year Experience program that impacts all incoming students. He has also developed and coordinated multiple student success initiatives, such as the Ichabod Success Institute, Peer Educator Program, First-Generation Mentoring Program and Skillshop Series. James has dedicated much of his career to helping young adults from various backgrounds find pathways to postsecondary success. Being raised to believe that education matters and that people deserve compassion and an equitable chance at a good life drives his compassion to eliminate barriers to postsecondary educational attainment.

Even through outside community involvement, education is a true passion for James. He is an active volunteer with United Way of Greater Topeka by serving on the OnGrade Achievement Impact Council, helping identify investment strategies and programs to help children develop on-grade skills in reading and math. Additionally, he volunteers for Nancy Perry Day of Caring and the Junior Leader Reader program. James takes pride in actively looking for and securing opportunities to create effective pathways for Shawnee County students to further their education and thus change the trajectory of their own families.

truths without giving them answers. Listening to understand, rather than respond, and allowing space for meaningful self-reflection are keys to helping those around you grow.

What cartoon character would you be?

It would have to be Batman. I know that Bruce Wayne has all kinds of wealth at his disposal, but what always resonated with me was the idea that one person, with no super powers, could use their skills, intellect and will-power to make a difference. The fact that Batman is always in the shadows, cloaked in anonymity, is also fitting for me.

Photo by JOHN BURNS

JENNIFER

GOETZ

Director of Marketing & Communications Kansas State Treasurer Lynn Rogers’ Office Jennifer sets a prime example of how to lift-up communities with both creativity and kindness.

Jennifer is responsible for outreach, branding and service elements of the Kansas State Treasurer’s Office, which together help to financially empower communities throughout the state of Kansas.

In 2020, Jennifer developed her own creative agency, Blu Door Creative, which has helped change the shape and aesthetic of Topeka’s business scene, and acted as a vehicle for her to go deeper into both her craft and her service. She hopes to grow Blu Door’s impact and reach to include developing strategy and content for political figures in Kansas. It is also her hope to see the agency align itself with social causes like supporting survivors of domestic violence and introducing the creative industry to at-risk youth.

Jennifer was a member of Leadership Greater Topeka’s Class of 2021, and exemplifies leadership in many places outside of her employment. She serves as one of the nine commissioners on the city’s Human Relations Commission, is a member of the Topeka South Rotary, and sits on the YWCA Governance committee.

How has your professional career inspired you personally?

Every day I field concerns from people wanting local and statewide change, and yet, change can’t be accomplished if you’re only expressing opinions behind the veil of a keyboard. My professional life has deeply influenced my personal belief that you cannot demand change if you don’t get involved. Therefore, I personally get involved in my community by providing creative services and support outside of my job. There are nonprofits that serve the underserved, small businesses trying to get off

the ground, and great individuals attempting to do big things in elected positions that need help I am uniquely qualified to provide.

as funny, creative, fast paced, involved, empathetic, reliable, and always the counselor!

What is something most people don’t know about you?

I almost went to Wichita State on a discus scholarship but instead became the third female drum major ever at the University of Kansas as a sophomore.

What trait do you most attribute to your success?

A perpetual willingness to go, “Sure! I’ll give it a shot!” mixed with a tenacious need to always be learning from other people and new experiences, and to set a standard... no, a demand, that I deserve to be at every table I’m at, even if self-doubt tries to convince me otherwise.

How would friends describe you?

I believe my friends would describe me

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Photo by JOHN BURNS

DANIELLE

HALL

Executive Director Kansas Lawyers Assistance Program Kansas Judicial Branch Danielle oversees the daily operations of the organization and works to ensure law students and practicing lawyers across the state of Kansas have access to resources to assist them in a variety of areas including mental health, substance abuse, methods to attain a healthy and sustainable practice, and implementing best business practices to serve clients.

Danielle serves on the board of the Women Attorneys Association of Topeka, the Kansas Women Attorneys Association and is a committee member for the National Institute for Well-Being in the Law. She has coached mock trials at Washburn University for the last decade and volunteers for the American Mock Trial Association. Danielle also spends her time helping provide opportunities to lead food drives for Harvesters, raising scholarship dollars for students and helping with several social justice and diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.

Woman of Influence Distinguished Mentor given

by Entrepreneurial & Minority Business Development of GO Topeka, Washburn School of Law Graduate of the Last Decade Award given by Washburn School of Law and Young Lawyer of the Year given by the Kansas Bar Association are all honors Danielle has under her name.

What has influenced you the most when it comes to how you approach your work?

During an opportunity I had to help provide some insight into the legal profession for a project I was working on, I got to travel and consult for another business. It may sound silly, but during that trip I noted a poster that was prominently placed at their office. One line read, “focus on the solutions, not the problem.” For whatever reason that line has stuck with me throughout the years. When

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there is a problem to be solved, I try hard to be part of the solution or to focus on finding a solution.

If you were a teacher for a day, which subject would you teach?

I would teach U.S. Government, because it is important for young people to receive a foundation in civics education to become informed and engaged citizens. It can empower them to take part in the public process and get involved in their communities.

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What frustrates you about the world?

The inequalities in the world frustrate me. I also wish there was generally more kindness in the world.

What characteristics do you value most in your co-workers?

I value their resilience. Over the last year and a half, I have had to ask my team to completely change how we work and to innovate during the pandemic. They enthusiastically accepted change-overcoming challenges and never missing a beat-to ensure we were able to continue to provide services to our clients.

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CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR VERY OWN VP OF ACCOUNTS & OPERATIONS, JESSICA HORTON & TO ALL THE WINNERS O F ‘TOPEKA’S 2 0 UNDER 40’

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JESSICA

HORTON Vice President of Accounts and Operations Sprout Creative Jessica works directly with clients, businesses and non-profits to strategize, plan and execute tactical marketing tools. She collaborates to develop and support their client’s strategic goals and objectives for successful marketing campaigns.

When she is not at work, Jessica serves as a board member for Family Service and Guidance Center’s Foundation and serves on the advisory council for Seat at the Table, a platform that allows for dialogue, impactful discussion, and change around racial equity, inclusion, and social justice. Jessica is active in her children’s school and was a member of the Leadership Greater Topeka Class of 2020.

Every year, Jessica and the Sprout Creative team dedicate countless hours to enhance the success of nonprofits in our community.

In the last year alone, their team has provided marketing guidance and support to countless local nonprofits.

What leadership trait would you like to be known for?

Kindness and a willingness to dig in and do the hard work.

What is your vision for the community of Topeka?

Topeka was really a forward-thinking and acting community on a lot of social justice issues in the past. My vision for Topeka is to become a magnet for

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people who want to make a difference through innovation and equity. I hope we can create a business community that supports unusual ideas that go against the status quo to open the door for future generations to build on.

How has being a mother made you a better business woman?

I believe being a mom has impacted almost every facet of the way I do business.

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I am a much-improved multi-tasker, I can block out distractions and focus on a whole new level, and my empathy to understand what other people may be battling outside of the office has evolved.

How do you define success?

If my daughter wants to tell her friends about the initiatives I support and get them involved in serving our community, I will feel fulfilled.

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Photo by JOHN BURNS

NATHAN

MARSH Lead Pastor First Baptist Church of Topeka In his role as lead pastor, Nathan is responsible for the short-term and long-term planning of the church, church administration, leading staff and volunteers, and leading all ministry teams. Prior to joining First Baptist Church of Topeka in 2019, he was associate executive minister for the American Baptist Churches of the Central Region, and senior pastor of the Ada/Minneapolis Baptist Churches.

Not one to be left on the sidelines, Nathan serves on the Executive Committee of Topeka JUMP, a volunteer for Upward Sports, and frequently volunteers at the Topeka Rescue Mission. When the coronavirus pandemic became a reality in Topeka, Nathan gathered a team of volunteers at First Baptist Church to set-up the church as a meal drop-off location to ensure children would not go hungry.

Nathan and his wife are proud parents to two children, Shamonique and Tyson, who they adopted through the Kansas Department of Children and Family Services. Since finalizing the adoption, the family continues to serve as advocates, supporters and local resources for the Department and adoptive families.

What was a life-changing moment for you?

When we found out my now daughter, Shamonique, needed a loving home. She was in my wife’s second grade class when we moved to Topeka. She didn’t know we were wanting to adopt her (at least I didn’t think so) at the time. I went with her class on a trip to the Topeka Zoo. Midway through the trip she turns to me and says, “So, are you going to adopt me or something?” Being completely stunned I said, “Would you like us to?” “Yes,” she replied. Then I said, “Good. We’re working it!”

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What did the adoption process teach you?

It taught me that kids have a wonderful resilience despite the circumstances they may have grown up with. Like any family, adoption comes with its fair share of challenges, but it’s a beautiful process of blending together individuals to become a family unit.

Who is your role model?

My mentor and role model is Richard Copeland. Richard is the senior pastor at

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First Baptist Church in DeSoto, Kansas.

This was the first church he served out of seminary, and he has been there for over 50 years serving as pastor. Richard has served with grace, humility, and has done great service in the DeSoto community.

What is something you strive to do every day?

Every day I try to be an encouragement to people I interact with, so they know they are loved, encouraged and supported.

Photo by JOHN BURNS

JENNIFER

COCKING

Assistant General Counsel Capitol Federal Savings Bank As the assistant general counsel at Capitol Federal, Jennifer provides legal and business advice for many areas of the bank.

In addition to excelling at her job, Jennifer is active in professional and community organizations. Her involvement includes serving as past president of the Women Attorneys Association of Topeka, chair of the Kansas CLE Board, and member of the Washburn University Alumni Association Board of Directors, as well as volunteering with the Kansas Women Attorneys Association.

Jennifer has received many honors. In 2020, she was named a Women of Excellence Honoree by the YWCA of Northeast Kansas.

Committed to serving others, Jennifer says she has made her career decisions based on opportunities to improve the lives of not only Topekans, but, more broadly, her fellow Kansans.

How did you decide to pursue the career you are in now?

When I went to law school, I thought I’d spend my career working for the courts as a research attorney. But I ended up enjoying and excelling in my business law classes and decided to seek opportunities to serve corporate clients after working for the Chief Justice of the Kansas Supreme Court.

What energizes you outside of work?

I love spending time outside with my family-playing games, going to the park, and eating on patios around town. I also get a lot of

energy from the amazing women who are part of the Women Attorneys Association of Topeka and Kansas Women Attorneys Association.

They are dedicated to improving the practice of law and the well-being of women in so many ways.

What are you an expert in?

Can I reject the premise of the question? I’ve worked hard and learned a lot about banking and how to be a good lawyer over the last five years. I am competent but labeling myself an “expert” makes it seem as though I know it all and there’s nothing left to learn. One of the

things I love most about being a lawyer is that I have opportunities every day to learn new things, push myself, and grow.

What would you say is the secret to a good life?

I think there are two things. First, focus as much as possible on the things that bring you joy. Second, practice resilience. Things won’t always go your way. But, if you can train yourself to adapt and recover from setbacks, it becomes much easier to turn your attention back to the things that energize you and make you happy.

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LINDSEY

DOWELL Teacher & Gifted Facilitator Auburn-Washburn School District Washburn Rural Middle School Lindsey is a teacher in the Auburn-Washburn School District and serves in the role of gifted facilitator at Washburn Rural Middle School.

Her job is to provide special education services to approximately 50 gifted 7th and 8th grade students each school year. In 2019, Lindsey was named the Kansas Council for History Education Teacher of the Year, which is an award given to one of the top history teachers in the state of Kansas.

Lindsey is also involved at Western Hills Church, where she has volunteered in activities like coaching UPWARD sports, participating in Sharefest, leading connect groups, and being involved in the planning and leading of mission trips. In fact, mission trips have been a very big part of Lindsey’s life. She has served on mission trips to Honduras and Rwanda, Africa. Lindsey wants to make Topeka a better place by investing in the people that live in this community. Her number one goal is to bring others along on her experiences and hope they get as much out of it as she does.

What is the proudest moment in your educational career?

When we started the service project to send basketball jerseys and backpacks to Rwandan refugees, I knew it was going to be tough. At the end of the year, we did not have enough money to send the jerseys, and the pandemic had set in, giving us few options for fundraising. I decided to wait until the following school year and hoped things would look better, but they didn’t. At that point, I gave the students three options: use the money we have to send a few boxes, donate the money we have, or try another fundraiser.

I was sincerely hoping they would choose

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to donate the money, but of course, they wanted to get every one of the boxes we had promised to Rwanda. Their determination paid off when, after two years of work, they raised enough money.

I was so incredibly proud of their grit, perseverance, and desire to see through on our commitment to the refugee camp.

What’s been your most valuable lesson?

Never let the fear of failure keep you from trying something new. Your greatest growth will come when you are in situations that stretch you and make you uncomfortable.

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Should zombies be slow or fast?

My students just completed a mock simulation of the United Nations using a Zombie Apocalypse as the problem they were trying to solve, so I feel like I have some great insight into this question.

Slow-moving zombies would be much preferred over fast-moving zombies.

Zombies have a 100% infection rate, so being able to get away from them quickly is imperative. It would also give the living more time to develop warning systems and safe places in the event that there is a zombie outbreak. Also, a slow-moving zombie would be easier to catch in order for testing purposes to create a vaccine.

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Photo by JOHN BURNS

DEL-METRIUS

HERRON

Realtor Genesis Real Estate, KW One Legacy Partners LLC In both a professional and community sense, Del-Metrius has a keen ability to transform places and spaces into somewhere that truly feels like home. As a realty professional and a board member of the Sunflower Association of Realtors, Del-Metrius works to help people buy and sell their houses in the city, always striving to move them closer to a place where they can fully live, work and play.

Del-Metrius acts as the chair for Forge Young Professionals, a Topeka organization focused on making the city a great place to live, work and play for young talent. Additionally, Del-Metrius sits on the SENT Housing Committee, and serves as a commissioner for the Topeka Planning Commission.

Through her work with these organizations, Del-Metrius uses her platform to empower and support others personally and professionally, to spur economic development and to create diverse, equitable and inclusive community environments.

Prior to serving her community, Del-Metrius served her country in the Kansas Army National Guard in the areas of recruitment and information technologies. Her commitment, hard work and integrity led to her receiving multiple military service awards, including the Army Commendation Medal, three Army Achievement Medals and the Battery Soldier of the Year award (A2-130th FA).

What inspired your real estate career?

Two things: my faith and my family. I got licensed in 2016, but due to insecurities I didn’t believe anyone would purchase a home from me. So, I found a 9-5 position in the IT world. Soon after, I found out that I was deploying with my unit to Syria and Kuwait and served overseas in 2017-18.

After I returned home in 2018, my son got incredibly sick and I needed to be physically and emotionally present for him in a way

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that my job wouldn’t accommodate. I was a single mother so the tug of war between needing to financially provide and the need to be available 24/7 to tend to my son’s needs was excruciating. After much prayer I felt like God was leading me to quit my job, and I did. It’s one of the best decisions I ever made.

What is your leadership style?

A servant leader/partnership. I would TK Business Magazine

never ask someone I am leading to do something I wouldn’t do. I don’t lead by ruling over others. I personally don’t respond well to that style. I treat those I am leading the way I want to be led.

What challenges young professionals?

Lack of patience. It causes young professionals to not lead a quality life in the present as they are constantly seeking what is next.

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KASEY

CLARK IT Manager Evergy Kasey oversees a team of application developers, business analysts and contractors who are responsible for all meter data and related IT infrastructure within Evergy. He has been with Evergy for the past 10 years and been able to use his knowledge in the IT field to develop a social organization for software developers called Code Topeka. He’s been recognized as an industry leader in field-side mobile technologies by IBM, and has spoken at numerous tech conferences about field side technologies.

No stranger to volunteer work, Kasey also has a love for hiking and mountain biking, currently serving as a head coach of SHRED Topeka as part of a statewide effort to launch a mountain bike league.

Through SHRED Topeka, he has the opportunity to help provide a safe environment for kids of all ages to explore biking and grow in the sport. Through his volunteer work, he was able to partner with Evergy’s Green Team and the Kansas Trail Council to help build over 6 miles of trails at Skyline Park over the last eight years. Kasey also serves as a committee member on the Shawnee County Parks and Rec Advisory Council and is the statewide coaching director for NICA Kansas Chapter.

What does a day in your life look like?

I try and separate my life into buckets to make sure that I’m meeting all my priorities and balancing things that are important to me: family, work, volunteerism and self-care. Usually I am up at 6:30 in order to get my daughter her breakfast and out the door for school.

Then I head to the basement to get work done. Since I’ve been working from home the last year or so, I’ve been going on more bike rides over lunch, which allows me to come back for the second half of my workday with good energy. Once my

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daughter gets dropped off from school you can usually find my family and me at Skyline Park, Cedar Crest, Heartland BMX, or occasionally with a group of friends on mountain bikes riding around town.

I am never afraid to ask questions, as I think being curious can lead to some pretty great things. I’m also a giant data nerd and think benchmarking and KPI’s are really important to keep as many eyes on the prize as possible.

How do you track success?

I’m one of those folks who constantly gives and takes feedback from my employees, peers and leadership. There’s a concept in cycling known as marginal gains—where even the smallest tweak is done to make processes more efficient.

What is the biggest risk you have taken?

On mile 2 of a 37 mile mountain bike ride, I once drank straight from a mountain stream. I’m still alive so that’s good—but I was super worried that I had swallowed an amoeba or something.

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Moving Communities Forward

Welcome to the team!

Evergy congratulates Kasey Clark, an honoree for 20 under 40 in the Topeka Community.

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Photo by JOHN BURNS

KEEGAN

MCELROY Associate Attorney Alderson, Alderson, Conklin, Crow & Slinkard, LLC Keegan is an associate attorney responsible for providing legal counsel and advice to her clients. Her practice focuses on domestic issues where clients often need a listening ear and help with navigating their new world of co-parenting or single parenting.

Keegan graduated from Washburn Law in 2019. During her time at Washburn, she served as a director of the Children and Family Law Center, student director of the Study Abroad Programs, and a teaching assistant for the legal writing program. Keegan received recognition for her excellence in clinical practice as well as pro bono honors.

When not advocating for her clients, Keegan serves as president-elect of the Topeka Bar Association Young Lawyers Committee. She is also an associate member of the Sam A. Crow Inn of the Court and a member of the Topeka Bar Association Family Law Committee. Keegan is a board member of the Sertoma (Service to Mankind) Evening Club and contributes to the Great Topeka Duck Race Sales Committee.

She serves on the board of directors of CASA of Shawnee County and was elected president of the board in July.

How can people be bolder?

By standing up for themselves. It is okay to say “no,” and you do not need to give an explanation for saying “no.” That is something I try to do more for myself—saying “no” when I don’t want to do something, or I don’t have time to dedicate, and not feeling like I need to justify myself.

What’s your sing-along song?

Mr. Brightside by the Killers. I mean, come on, it’s a total banger! But also, any song from Hamilton.

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What do you do to make a positive impact?

I try to bring a positive attitude to every aspect of my life. I want to leave everything I touch better than I found it, including the people around me. I probably cannot solve all the world’s problems, but maybe I can make my corner of the universe a little brighter and a little more joyful for those around me. I do my very best to make everyone I encounter feel valued and important.

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What lessons have you learned from difficult moments?

Difficult moments teach you that you are capable of surviving what was meant to destroy you. Difficult moments in my life have taught me that I am often stronger than I feel. I’ve learned that sometimes you need to create your own sunshine on a rainy day, and that the people you surround yourself with are vital to your emotional well-being and physical health.

Photo by JOHN BURNS

BRAIL

WATSON Worship Director Fellowship Hi-Crest Inc. Brail’s position is centered around three key areas: worship services, mentorship and facilitation of community engagement. He takes pride in leading multiple teams in creating diverse, non-toxic methodologies of ministry that are reflective of the Hi-Crest community’s cultural, socio-economic and racial make-up.

Brail serves the Hi-Crest Community and surrounding areas through multiple avenues, whether that’s through volunteering at Topeka Public Schools, or using his entertainment industry skills to help record and edit videos and collaborate with SENT Topeka, mentoring through The Billboard 500 Club. He has been actively involved in working with youth through YoungLife of Topeka and Megacake Meltdown Fighting Game Tournaments where intergenerational relationships can be formed around mutual competitions.

Through Brail’s professional and personal pursuits, he takes part in mentoring musicians and spiritual leaders. He’s able to meet with individuals to help them develop skills in administration, performance and leadership to enhance their lives, and the lives of others.

Which local leader has inspired you?

Johnathan Sublet. He gets things done plain and simple. But his “why” is what is the most compelling. He’s able to do so much for the community, because of the years that he spent amassing skills, overcoming poverty and learning how to be a leader. That’s awesome, but the best part is that his main goal is to help others do the same. I believe in sharing the gospel through helping others to use their God-given gifts at their highest level.

Johnathan always strives to teach others everything he knows.

What is one big item on your bucket list?

To create the world’s fourth major record label. I believe that the current business model for the record industry is exploitative and limits people’s abilities to use their gifts.

I want to create something that will allow people to connect with others through their gifts, grow in their gifts and serve others through creating great music, and I want to

plant it in Topeka, Kansas, so that it creates opportunities for future generations to build up the community.

What drives you in tough times?

The love that God has given me for both the company and the uplifting of others.

What should one never take for granted?

That you have the right to be right.

Sometimes being correct is not what’s best for those around you.

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JENNIFER

LECLAIR Vice President of Development Boys & Girls Clubs of Topeka

Jennifer plays a huge part in building great futures for children in our community.

She recognizes children are our future leaders and changemakers, and says she is honored to have a small part in their journey. Jennifer spends the bulk of her time cultivating donor relationships, amplifying her organization’s board-driven annual campaign efforts, and overseeing the development of partnerships between Boys & Girls Clubs of Topeka and businesses and individuals within our community.

Outside of work, Jennifer enjoys anything that involves her daughter, Vida, and her husband, Corey. Their family loves spending time outside, going to Royals games and exploring the amazing places in our community. Jennifer is a proud board member of Friends of the Topeka Zoo (FOTZ), volunteer for the American Heart Association and committee chairperson for TDC Adventures in Early Learning Center.

What characteristic should a great leader possess?

I think it’s incredibly important to be a good communicator—to know when to talk and when to listen. A leader should be able to motivate others and naturally build passion for their organization’s mission. In the presence of a good leader, the atmosphere is inherently more positive. They inspire others to dream bigger and work harder for the common good.

What’s a dream business of yours?

At the onset of the pandemic, I started taking on a few commissioned painting projects here and there. As a former

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painting teacher, it has been especially nice to have a creative outlet during a time of such uncertainty. If I had limitless time, I would certainly try to expand on my little art business.

care about, to assess the needs of our community and jump in to help where we can, and to be there to listen to others who are feeling lost. We rise by lifting others.

What has the pandemic taught you?

I have learned how important it is to be there for others, not always in ways that make sense to us, but in ways that are meaningful to them. Feelings of isolation and the loss of all we perceived to be normal left so many of our friends, colleagues, family members, and neighbors struggling to find coping mechanisms. I’ve learned that it is deeply important to check in on the people we

Share your favorite “life hack.”

Start every “to do” list with one to two things you have already done so that you can cross them off right away.

Sometimes, the hardest thing to do is just getting started. It’s easier to be more productive if you already have a tangible sense of accomplishment for the things you’ve done. Something as simple as a strikethrough line on a piece of paper can really ignite a mindset shift!

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Do you want to see a lush, green lawn in the spring? Now is the perfect time to prepare.

We’re here to make your home or business the best place to be. Learn more at schendellawn.com

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Photo by JOHN BURNS

CAITLYN

HALSEY Owner & CEO Dialogue Coffee House In 2019, Caitlyn opened Dialogue Coffee House, an innovative coffee shop that has an employee base of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Dialogue Coffee House gives everyone a place to be part of the conversation, without the definition of one’s abilities. In addition to all it takes to effectively manage a small business, each day Caitlyn has the unique opportunity to coach her team on job, life and social skills.

Within our community, Caitlyn serves as the business development co-chair for Forge and as a group leader for YoungLife. She also volunteers with Special Olympics of Kansas and at events such as Tim Tebow’s “Night to Shine.”

Through volunteer and learning opportunities in our community, she discovered that each person who makes up a community comes with a unique story and background. This understanding has become the foundation that Dialogue Coffee House began on, a desire to know an individual’s story and a desire to help shape them for a brighter future.

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What is your favorite thing about being a small business owner?

Owning and operating a small business brings many joys, but my favorite is the unique friendships that develop in my little space of Topeka.

What excites you about your work?

My passion is to be an advocate for my friends with disabilities. I love waking up knowing Topeka is just starting to see and change the conversation on what it means to have a disability.

What’s trait do you admire in people?

Resilience. I admire when people can quickly bounce back from a tough situation because it shows their deep interest in growing and moving forward.

What is something that everyone should know about you?

I am an introvert through and through.

Yet, this allows me to listen intently to people’s stories.

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What advice would you offer someone starting a career journey?

Everyone’s journey is different and you write the definition of success.

The road to a successful career can, but does not always include a fouryear degree.

Who is your hero?

Jesus Christ. In the Bible, He models so clearly what it looks like to love others well.

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Join Us Build & Grow!

What TIBA Does We urge members to do business locally whenever possible.

We work to foster business opportunities for independent businesses.

We provide benefits, services, and education to aid in the operation and profitability of its members.

We promote entrepreneurship as affording the greatest opportunity for youth.

Our Mission The Topeka Independent Business Association is organized to promote the formation, growth and viability of small and independently owned businesses in the Topeka area, and more.

For further details, visit us at topekatiba.org

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DR. ERIN

LOCKE Health Officer Shawnee County

Photo by JOHN BURNS

What advice would you give a young woman in your field of study?

Medicine is a highly rewarding career, but it is also extremely challenging.

My advice is to actively seek out mentors who will support you and guide you through your medical training and after.

What’s a true passion of yours?

I think my family would say I’m addicted to reading. Growing up I always had a book with me and

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Dr. Erin Locke is the medical “voice” for the Shawnee County community. She is responsible for planning for and responding to public health emergencies such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Among the many aspects of her position, Erin is a liaison to state agencies as well as the local medical community. In addition, she assists in the investigation and management of outbreaks, issues isolation and quarantine orders, identifies emerging public health trends, and establishes local health policy.

For Erin, the commitment to take on the role was not made lightly, “the truth is that I did not know if I had made the right decision, if I would do a good job or what consequences I might face.... Leadership is often about stepping forward, and that’s what I did.”

Since 2011, Erin has been an active member of the American Academy of Family Physicians, serving on the board of directors in both the Kansas and Washington chapters.

She is now acting co-chair of the Governmental Advocacy Committee for Kansas.

would frequently get in trouble for staying up too late at night reading.

My husband is also a big reader, and we have stacks of books all over our home, most of them “impulse buys” we couldn’t resist. It remains a part of our daily routine.

What is the most important part of your work?

In medicine, the patient is the most important. As the health officer, I have tried to take the same approach, but for me the community

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is center. I base my decisions and recommendations on providing the best health outcomes for the community as a whole.

What superpower would you like to have?

If this superpower is solely for my personal benefit, then I think I would choose teleportation! Our world is so beautiful with interesting people and different cultures. I would use my power to see as much as I could.

Photo by JOHN BURNS

JEREMY

GRABER Topeka Partner-In-Charge Foulston Siefkin LLP Jeremy has achieved a balance of business success and intimate community involvement. As a partner with Foulston Siefkin LLP, Jeremy focuses on business and corporate law, taxation and estate and succession planning. Jeremy holds two leadership roles within the firm: partner-in-charge of Foulston’s Topeka office and vice-chair of the Northeast Kansas Transactional and Business Law practice group and uses each as a platform to grow those who he leads.

Jeremy has been a member of the Topeka Bar Association since 2009 and represents his firm as a member of the Greater Topeka Partnership and investor in Momentum 2022, with previous involvement in Forge Young Professionals. He is a graduate of Leadership Greater Topeka and has collaborated to help launch Quantum Alliance, a group of professional services firms that helps startups in Topeka access legal, marketing, and accounting resources.

Jeremy joined the Junior Achievement Board in 2020, serves as a Cub Scout den leader and as an assistant coach of his children’s soccer, basketball, and baseball teams.

What motivates you?

I like to work hard to help my clients as well as provide for my family. My reputation of getting things done, and done the right way, motivates me at work and home.

As a youth coach, what life lessons do you hope to pass along?

Practice and hard work pay off, but let’s have some fun along the way.

What’s an early career misstep you made that changed you?

Submitting a rough draft as work product.

That experience taught me to always produce my very best work every time; whether a quick email to a colleague or friend, detailed letter to a client, or court filing. Doing good work every time, at the office and elsewhere, is a reflection of you and the importance you place on quality in all aspects of your life.

What is the most spontaneous thing you’ve ever done?

Even my most spontaneous decisions are thought through.

What’s your favorite hashtag?

If I ever start “twittering,” I’ll let you know.

If you could eat one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?

The Pennant’s creamy jalapeno fries.

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CHERRYL

DELACRUZ 6-12 Mathematics Consulting Teacher Topeka Public Schools Topeka Center for Advanced Learning and Careers Cherryl’s responsibilities include supporting teachers with teaching strategies, resources, assessment procedures and effective programming. She feels blessed and privileged to influence not only teachers but also students district wide.

Cherryl engages students in high-quality instruction, preparing them to become lifelong learners and strong community members.

In addition to her work, Cherryl is committed to making her community a better place. She has volunteered with the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) Learning Across Kansas, and the Topeka Filipino-American Association. Cherryl is also involved with her church community at Christ the King Catholic Church and Most Pure Heart of Mary Catholic Church. She supports her faith community by planning and organizing Filipino-American Catholic events. She believes that understanding different cultures helps build relationships within the community and results in a more peaceful Topeka.

What inspired you to pursue a career in education?

I have always wanted to impart wisdom and an excitement for learning. Teaching my classmates in elementary and high school felt very rewarding, so I decided to become a teacher. When I started working with students, I realized that teaching is more than just imparting knowledge. I want to be a positive role model in the

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lives of my students and show them that with commitment and hard work, they are capable of anything.

What is the best piece of advice you were ever given?

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.”

—Deuteronomy 31:6

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How would you describe yourself in just one word?

Ambitious. I tend to be very driven in my approach to life and work. I thrive on challenges and constantly set goals for myself and persevere to reach those goals.

Describe a pet peeve of yours.

I do not like when people tend to be pessimistic and have negative attitudes.

I like to remain positive. Even during a difficult situation, I do not let people’s negative attitudes affect my mindset.

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As a business and tax lawyer, Jeremy focuses on wealth transfer and business succession, estate planning, employee benefits, and real estate.

Committed to downtown Topeka, Jeremy oversaw relocation of Foulston’s office to a renovated historic building at 822 S. Kansas.

He serves on Topeka’s Junior Achievement board and is a Leadership Topeka alumnus.

Jeremy, an Eagle Scout, stays in touch with Scouting as a den leader and pack chair for his sons.

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LACEY

BISNETT Project Management Office Vice President Advisors Excel Being an active leader in both her professional life and through community engagement, Lacey has been provided opportunities to not only advance herself but to also help mentor others along the way. As the project management office vice president at Advisors Excel, Lacey built the division from the ground up and has used her knowledge and drive to help others develop and advance in the company.

Lacey gives back to community by serving as the chair of the Community Development and Leadership Counsel for Shawnee County at the Kansas Children’s Service League, volunteering with Topeka United and being a founding member of the Rotary Club of Community Action Against Human Trafficking. Lacey uses her time to help mentor others and lead for change in our community. Her involvement doesn’t stop there.

Lacey has found ways to engage her children to make Topeka a better place. Together they have made meals for Silverbackks, host and stock a blessing box, and make and distribute homeless care kits.

How did you choose your career path?

In my undergrad I explored all the different areas of psychology, but the one that really clicked with me was industry and organizational psychology. The focus on productivity and efficiency from the approach that it makes a more relaxed and enjoyable workplace naturally moved me into technology and project management.

How has community involvement influenced your children?

Perspective is the biggest thing my children have gained by their involvement in the

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community. Working with different community groups helps them understand their privilege and how to use it in a way that improves the lives of others.

the years. Jacque Russel and Sherry Schoonover at City of Topeka were strong, empowered women in leadership who helped me discover my path forward.

What superhuman ability would you like to have?

I don’t know about superhuman, but if I could have the timeturner that Hermione had in Harry Potter, that would be life changing.

Ryan Fickel helped me in learning a networking and growth mindset.

Who are your mentors?

I’ve had many informal mentors over TK Business Magazine

Right now, I’m absorbing everything I can from my current mentor, Katie Buck.

She balances a successful career in financial services and a wonderful family. There is just so much to learn there!

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Photo by JOHN BURNS

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TK Business Magazine

VETERAN OWNED BUSINESSES

By KATHY WEBBER SAMANTHA EGAN ADAM VLACH Photos by JOHN BURNS

While veterans are often touted as great employees, they truly shine when they become entrepreneurs because of their military training.

Many military veterans are often well equipped to handle the stresses of entrepreneurship while remaining functional and effective. They take leadership seriously and believe in placing the needs of their followers ahead of their own. Their training focuses on teamwork where success is measured on how well the entire team performs. Bringing this attitude to a business encourages higher levels of performance.

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Photo by JOHN BURNS

TOTAL FITNESS BODY ZONE

Empowering Future Generations

By KATHY WEBBER

Anthony Cay, Owner | Total Fitness Body Zone

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Anthony Cay, owner of Total Fitness Body Zone, originally planned to become a physical therapist.

However, life experiences, including serving in the U.S. Army and being deployed in Iraq, led Cay down the career path of gym owner and personal trainer.

Cay decided to join the Army in 2005 based on numerous reasons, but none so poignant as the terrorist attack in 2001.

“9/11 really made me mad,” Cay said. “Serving our country continued to weigh on me when I was ready to do something else with my life. Plus, the military pays for your education and teaches you an actual trade that you can immediately utilize.”

When he joined the army, Cay chose the career path of Army medic, or combat medic, because he hoped it would eventually lead to him becoming a physical therapist.

“They told me that in order to do that, I would need to start as a medic, and then I could branch off into what I wanted to do,” Cay said. “They call us combat medics because the first emphasis is on combat, make sure you disperse the enemy, then go treat all those that need actual medical assistance.”

After Cay completed his military training, he returned home to Topeka and worked as an emergency medical technician for Topeka’s ambulance service, AMR Medical Transportation. As an EMT, Cay was able to gain experience in actual trauma situations, which would come in handy when he was deployed to Iraq, where he would serve for a year.

“There were only six medics deployed to care for over 300 military personnel,” Cay said. “Out of those six combat medics, I was the only one with actual experience dealing with trauma, so everybody was fighting over me. That felt pretty good!”

Photo by JOHN BURNS

“When I can help someone to strengthen muscles, improve agility and conditioning, as well as help with their mental health and to get off medications, I’m checking off so many boxes.”

—Anthony Cay Owner Total Fitness Body Zone

FROM SERVING TO TRAINING After serving a year in Iraq, Cay returned home to Topeka and was working out at a local gym when the manager suggested he do some personal training. At the time, being a personal trainer was the farthest thing from Cay’s mind, but after a little persuasion from his children, Cay decided to give it a try. He began training people at the gym, but eventually moved his clients to his own home for their training sessions. It was during this time that Cay discovered he preferred personal

training over his original dream of becoming a physical therapist.

“Physical therapy just moved too slow for me,” Cay said. “The biggest thing I like about personal training is that I can help people. When I can help someone to strengthen muscles, improve agility and conditioning, as well as help with their mental health and to get off medications, I’m checking off so many boxes. I feel like a superhero!”

As Cay’s personal training business grew, so did his need for more training

space. He began leasing space from a local gym near Forbes Field to accommodate his clients, and then in 2011, he opened Total Fitness Body Zone. Cay continued to serve in the Army Reserve until 2017. After 12 years of service, Cay decided to end his army career and focus on his growing business.

“In the Army Reserves, you serve two to three days a month, and then for three weeks once a year.

Being gone for three weeks was conflicting with me trying to run

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Total Fitness Body Zone trains kids from age 4 all the way to Division I, and even on into the professional ranks in different sports.

the gym. I was the only one working at my gym, and I couldn’t leave for three weeks and expect it to survive,” Cay said.

Once he could focus on growing his business, Cay found he once again needed a bigger location to serve his clients. In 2018, Cay moved Total Fitness Body Zone to 4601 SE Adams in Topeka. This bigger location allowed Cay to create targeted athletic training experiences for any type of sport.

Total Fitness Body Zone boasts an indoor football field, basketball court, punching bags, batting cages, power lifting equipment, specialty bars, ropes, tires, and several cardio machines.

TRAINING ALL FOR EVERYTHING “Our main focus is athletic training,” Cay said. “We train kids from age 4 all the way to Division I, and even on into the professional ranks in different sports. We train for everything—from golf, football, soccer, volleyball, baseball—everything. Several sporting teams practice here, and then after practice, they get speed, strength,

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and agility training with me, so it’s a one-stop shop. And at the same time, the parents that are here with their kids can choose to either participate with the kids or use the full-sized commercial gym.”

Cay says starting training at a young age really helps with personal confidence and physical ability.

“It’s hard for people to understand why I start training kids so young because 4-year-olds are all over the place, but that’s my gift to be able to deal with kids. If they start here at a young age, they excel at their athletics and their physical education at school,” Cay said.

By helping kids to excel and be the best they can be, Cay hopes to turn the heads of DI recruiters and start seeing Kansas kids be the top pick for nearby colleges.

“We have two DI colleges nearby, KU and K-State, and their first look isn’t even in their own backyard.

Something has got to change in our backyard, and I am that change,” Cay said.

TK Business Magazine

EMPOWERING WITH EXERCISE Cay also has a passion to help fellow veterans and offers discounts for those who have served.

“I want vets to come in here and focus on their PTSD instead of relying on pharmaceuticals,” Cay said. “Exercise is a huge part of how you can put down the pills and stop the diabetes, stop the high cholesterol. I want to help you alleviate your need for pharmaceuticals.

This is a place where you can take your anxious issues and do something positive with it.

With eight acres available on the property that houses the gym, Cay hopes to one day add an outdoor football field with a track around it, making Total Fitness Body Zone a truly unique experience for anyone seeking to better themselves.

“People need our services. We empower adults, empower kids, and this is what the world needs. We are trying to put some light in the darkness. When people know what we are trying to accomplish, word of mouth will get my name out there,” Cay said.

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D’Andrea and Ken Hausler, Owners | CBD Nation Photo by JOHN BURNS

CBD NATION Helping Others Heal

By SAMANTHA EGAN

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Ken Hausler will tell you that his business, CBD Nation, has given him a new passion for helping people, including veterans like himself, find a new way to ease their ailments.

When Hausler ended his 18 years of service in the U.S. Army, he was ready for a new chapter. After his wife, D’Andrea, suggested starting a business, their first step was finding an industry that wasn’t already saturated. Seeing the exponential growth of CBD, they dove in and opened their first retail store, CBD Nation in 2018. Less than two years later, the Hauslers grew their business to a national scale through their retail, wholesale and white-labeling services.

At the time they opened their store, Hausler was new to CBD. At D’Andrea’s suggestion, he tried a few products and found he was eventually able to replace some of the pharmaceutical medications he’d been taking for years. Hausler said many of his customers have had similar experiences, including

CBD Nation exclusively sells its own line of organic formulated CBD products that they created.

Photo by JOHN BURNS

those who have ailments from their time in the military.

“The benefits for PTSD, once people find the right dose, have been really surprising,” said Hausler. “We have nothing we can show as a medicinal claim, just the people who come in and see differences. It helps them process through things and relax a little bit.”

After selling other companies’ products for a year, the Hauslers got the itch to create their own. Based on their extensive research and D’Andrea’s experience as a certified CBD nurse (the only one in the state), they made their own blend of CBD. Starting with capsules, their bestselling product, they created an organic formula that eliminates synthetic ingredients.

Now CBD Nation exclusively sells its own line of CBD products, which include tinctures, gummies, vapes, salves and roll-ons. The Hauslers take an active role in harvesting the hemp that goes into their products, spending hours helping farmers cut, dry and hang it.

“It’s a huge process,” said Hausler, “but it helps us build good relationships with our farmers.”

BIG GAINS AND GROWING PAINS CBD Nation’s business model took a pivotal shift when one customer, a hemp farmer, asked if the Hauslers would help him create his own blend. Not seeing any reason to object, the Hauslers worked with him to make his own products. From there, word of mouth spread.

Soon, CBD Nation added manufacturing and white-labeling to their list of services.

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Photo by JOHN BURNS

CBD Nation product lines include capsules, tinctures, gummies, vapes, salves and roll-ons.

Their new business models demanded more equipment and more expertise. Not exactly sure what they needed, the Hauslers learned as they went. But when the demand exceeded their capacity, things got strained.

“It caught us off guard,” said Ken. “People were asking for thousands of particular items, and it was a lot more than we could manage just manually doing it.”

A pandemic-related equipment shortage made things even more strained. But the Hauslers kept at it.

“I’m not really good at quitting anything, and I think that’s because of the military,” Hausler said.

Today, CBD Nation has the ability to produce 100,000 units a day, for themselves and for their white-labeling clients that span the country.

ADVERTISING WITH STARS AND STRIPES When developing their brand, Ken and D’Andrea made a conscious decision to brand their business as veteran owned. The decision resonated

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with their veteran customers, several of whom would bring their coffee into the shop to talk with Hausler.

“When you can relate to somebody, it’s beneficial for everyone,” Hausler said. “When you’re a veteran and you talk to another veteran, it doesn’t matter where you served, we all have commonalities.”

The “veteran owned” part of their brand also helps add legitimacy among those hesitant about CBD. “When you come into our store, you see professional people,” said Ken. “You don’t see people who are going to sell you meth outside.”

As CBD has become more widespread, Hausler says they see that hesitation less often. But the normalization has also led to more competition.

While the manufacturing and white-labeling side of the business skyrocketed from word of mouth alone, driving customers to their retail store has been more of a challenge.

Hausler stays motivated by keeping focused on the big picture.

TK Business Magazine

“The biggest thing that I’ve learned is to just stay true to your goal,” he said. “This is your business.

Don’t let anybody dictate it to you.

That has been huge for me.”

LOOKING BEYOND HEMP Now in their fourth year, CBD Nation hopes to eventually branch into medicinal marijuana, when and if it becomes legalized in Kansas. Hausler has lobbied for the legalization of marijuana several times over the last couple of years, driven by what he’s seen with his veteran customers.

“It’s a natural progression for us,” he said. “When we’re helping veterans, they talk about marijuana use and how it’s benefiting them.”

While Hausler has many other demands on his time, serving his customers remains a key priority.

“That’s the big reason we do this,” he said. “We work diligently to make sure customers get the best benefit. We’re always there to listen and help.”

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Matt and Sarah Vanderpool, Owners | 8 Iron Therapy

8 IRON THERAPY

Finding Long-Term Opportunity in the Short Game

By SAMANTHA EGAN

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Building a business from the ground up takes grit. But for a couple of veterans, that’s a non-issue. Matt Vanderpool, who served 12 years with the Kansas Army National Guard, and his wife, Sarah, a retired Major with the Army Reserves, applied the mental and physical endurance from their time in uniform to open 8 Iron Therapy, an indoor simulated golf facility in Southeast Topeka.

The idea came last fall when Matt begrudgingly prepared for the dreaded cold temperatures that signal the end of the golf season.

“It sucks knowing you have to put your clubs up in bad weather,” said Matt. “In Kansas, if you take wind and weather into consideration, you have 70 ideal days for golf. That’s it.”

During quarantine, Matt’s time at the range became even more sacred. When he needed a break from the world of remote work and school, Matt told Sarah he was heading out for a little “8 iron therapy.”

TK Business Magazine

That October, as the clock was ticking on his lockdown escape, an idea took hold. Inspired by the 24/7 gym model, Matt thought about applying the same concept to an indoor golf facility. Sarah was immediately on board. With her master’s degree in business and Matt’s in technology, it felt like a winning combination.

“I thought if anyone could do it, he could,” said Sarah.

“Between our combined education and experience, I figured we’d be able to make anything go.”

Less than 10 months later, 8 Iron Therapy opened.

For golfers craving a longer season to work on their short game, the shop is a dream come true. Course simulation technology gives players access to over 100 different courses.

In the rare case a golfer wants to play less than 18 holes at once, players can pause and resume their game later. Perhaps best of all, golfers get stats for every shot, including ball speed, trajectory and smash factor.

“They love seeing that,” Matt said. “Golf really is a numbers game. You have to know how far you can hit shots and with what clubs.”

Even for less enthusiastic golfers, like Sarah, the indoor setting provides a better environment.

“I much prefer playing in the shop,” she said. “I don’t have to worry about people watching me hack at the ball or good golfers coming up behind me on a hole because I’m taking too long.”

Matt and Sarah were hands on in building their space, ordering the granite, cutting out walls and picking out furniture. While Matt was away on a three-week training for the Reserves, Sarah laid the carpet. Enlisting the help of her friend’s teenage kids, Sarah led a small troop of workers. But the physically taxing labor soon took a toll, and Sarah had to dig into her military experience to rally the group.

“One thing the army taught me is I can do anything,” said Sarah. “If I have enough time, money and willpower, I can do absolutely everything.”

OPERATION: OPEN DOORS Aside from the physical toll, the Vanderpools had to push through the relentless legal requirements before getting the city’s OK to open their doors. From

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A GRITTY ROAD TO THE GRAND OPENING Before 8 Iron Therapy opened to the public, Matt and Sarah had a few bunkers to conquer.

Matt spent five months researching and refining the business plan. Talking to owners of indoor golf facilities across the country helped him shape his model. Getting advice from Army Reserve friends who owned small businesses also played a key role, especially with financial preparation.

“We just assumed we’d be able to pay the bills right away, which hasn’t happened,” said Sarah. “It was great to know we needed to have operating capital in the bank to pay bills for a few months.”

By the time the business plan was complete, Matt had thought through everything from software to beverages.

The next part was picking a location. While an indoor golf facility doesn’t require the lush greens of a traditional course, the Vanderpools had other factors in mind. When Southeast Topeka came to mind, it felt right.

Just a half mile away from their house and minutes away from three golf courses, Southeast Topeka offered both convenience and the chance to serve their community.

“Southeast Topeka is its own small town,” said Matt. “It’s really an underserved part of Topeka, we felt.”

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Photos by JOHN BURNS

Course simulation technology at 8 Iron Therapy gives players access to over 100 different courses to challenge their golf skills.

inspections to informational meetings with local residents, the hoops seemed endless. But they pushed through anyway.

“Military instills a lot of values,” said Matt. “One of them is that grit to push through.”

Despite their frustration, they said the people behind the desks were supportive.

“The staff we worked with at the City of Topeka were very helpful,” said Sarah. “They weren’t excited to tell us about regulations requiring x, y and z.”

Final approval arrived the day before their grand opening.

“It was a lot of hard work,” said Matt. “We were just relieved that we were there.”

A NEW WAY TO SERVE Even months after opening, military values continue to shape the way the Vanderpools do business. Integrity, being leaders of character and doing the right thing all the time are the values

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at the heart of their operation. 8 Iron Therapy’s no-commitment policy is one example of those values in action. While Matt and Sarah offer a player’s card, they tell customers not to get it unless they plan to be in the shop at least 8 hours a month.

“Life happens. Things change,” said Matt. “We don’t want to be a burden to anyone, especially not anyone in our community.”

While military values drive their business from the inside, Matt and Sarah choose not to highlight their veteran status as part of their marketing.

“We want people to come in because they love golf or love a golfer,” said Sarah.

Matt and Sarah also have plans to use the space to serve their community by using the space for blood drives, fundraisers and local school events.

“We’re really there to serve them,” Matt said. “Just like Sarah and I served in the military, we really take a lot of pride in serving our customers, soliciting that feedback and making the experience better and better.”

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Mike Luellen, Owner (center) with employees Matt, Marvin, John and Howard | Shorey Automotive Photo by JOHN BURNS

SHOREY AUTOMOTIVE A Lifetime of Service and Mechanical Craftsmanship

By ADAM VLACH

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Founded in 1988, Shorey Automotive can aptly be described as a labor of love. The Topeka-based auto repair and maintenance shop is the culmination of a lifetime of service and mechanical craftsmanship, both of which have remained a common theme throughout founder Mike Luellen’s storied career.

A United States Army veteran, Luellen can trace his professional start back to his time in the military, during which he served as a construction equipment repairman.

Undoubtedly, the skills, resourcefulness and unwavering integrity so commonly exhibited by service members have since served him, particularly when he turned an eye toward entrepreneurship.

Following the completion of his time in the Army, Luellen honed his craft at a few different truck shops and car dealerships—most notably at Bruckner’s, working on Mack trucks, and then at Fruehauf Trailers—before landing at Noller Ford Truck Center in Topeka.

“After that I was working for Ben Schreiner Construction. I was the only mechanic working

Photo by JOHN BURNS

in that shop, and from there I started my own business in 1988,” Luellen recalled.

Seeing as Luellen had not found a job up to that point that truly captured his passion, it seems quite logical, at least in retrospect, that he would decide to forge his own path. Apart from the uncapped earning potential inherent to entrepreneurship, the driving force behind Luellen’s decision to take the leap and strike out on his own was a profoundly simple one.

“I was looking for a change, and I wanted my independence,” he shared.

FRONT LINE, HANDS-ON Luellen takes pride in being primarily self-taught when it comes to mechanic work. Although he does take formal education and certification classes, his real training, he contends, has come from on-the-job learning, something many entrepreneurs can

surely relate to. Moreover, his frontline, hands-on experience provided great insight into what matters most in the automotive repair industry.

Having been in business for 33 years now, Luellen understands very well the value of mastering the fundamentals and simply doing the right thing at every turn. Not one for gimmicky sales tricks, he is intent on providing true value to his customers through quality service and honest dealings.

“I really just like fixing people’s car problems,” Luellen said.

In turn, Shorey Automotive, a family-owned and operated company, developed a strong and loyal customer base by embodying these core principles as a business. By prioritizing the customer’s needs, the delivery of value, and an overall safe driving experience, the business has not only survived these past few decades, but it

has grown. What started out as a oneman show is now a thriving business, with Luellen at the helm of a team of four highly trained employees.

The services offered by Shorey Automotive are wide-ranging, with expertise running deep in every area.

By building a staff of technicians and service advisors that complements his own skillset, Luellen finds himself in the fortunate position of being able to service a substantially broad portfolio of vehicle types, whether it be a modern sedan, a classic car, an SUV, a diesel pickup truck, or an RV. It is a rare day that Luellen finds himself sending a prospective customer elsewhere.

“I do all kinds of auto repair, so there’s really not any one thing that we specialize in,” Luellen said. “Our business motto is ‘We Do It All.’ That’s really what has gotten me by all these years. I don’t really

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Photo by JOHN BURNS

Employees are proud of the repair and maintenance service work they provide at Shorey Automotive.

turn anything down. I do European imports, Asian imports and American cars. I work on about anything.”

In addition to repairs, Shorey Automotive offers an array of routine maintenance services.

Tire and brake inspections, air conditioning services, transmission maintenance and oil changes account for a few of the services the business provides that just about any vehicle owner will need to procure on a regular basis.

FREEDOM DRIVES MOTIVATION Any business with such diverse capabilities would be well positioned for long-term success.

Some may even be tempted to pursue expansion or hypergrowth. For Luellen, though, the craft itself and the people with whom he practices it are what he finds most fulfilling. The people, the process, and the freedom are his guiding lights, and true to form, his goal is simply to run his business in such a manner that he never loses sight of them.

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“I just want to make enough money to keep my employees and myself comfortable, and just keep fixing cars,” he shared. “I want people who work here to make good money and have a good place to work.”

None of that is to say, of course, that there aren’t any challenges in running the business. Like any venture, Shorey Automotive has its peaks and valleys and in-betweens. Consistent with its core focus— people and cars—most of the challenges Shorey Automotive faces can be attributed to either the challenges that come with serving a very large, very busy customer base; or certain automotive repair problems that prove more perplexing or difficult to resolve.

But even on the most frustrating of days, the crew at Shorey Automotive love what they do.

Luellen’s ability to simplify and illuminate what is often a confusing, opaque experience—vehicle repair—is a talent in its own right.

“We’ve always prided ourselves on being honest and just telling people the truth,” Luellen said.

“Nobody deserves a medal for that. Just tell people the truth. Inspect the cars, find out what’s wrong with the cars, and tell them what’s wrong with the cars. That’s all I do. It’s not tricky.”

Indeed, many of the values emphasized by the Army are still evident in Luellen and his work today.

And while he and Shorey Automotive may make running a world-class auto repair business look easy from the outside, the veteran founder again brings the conversation back to the fundamentals when sharing words of wisdom with aspiring entrepreneurs.

“Give it a try. You don’t get anywhere without taking a chance,” he said. “If you’re a good mechanic, you can go get a good job anywhere, anyway, so if it doesn’t work out you can always go back to working for somebody.”

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“There is no other way to say this, Momentum 2022 was a game changer for our community.

When people say Topeka has changed so much over the past few years, they can look at this strategy and begin to understand why.”

- Matt Pivarnik, CEO, Greater Topeka Partnership DEVELOP HOME GROWN TALENT

CREATE VIBRANT & ATTRACTIVE PLACES

GROW A DIVERSE ECONOMY

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COLLABORATING AS A COMMUNITY

Choose Topeka

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Washburn Tech East

Redbud Park

Innovation & Animal Health

Earned Media Success

Seat at the Table

TopCity Interns

Riverfront Advisory Council

Digital Equity

TopCity Teachers

Downtown Master Plan

Choose Topeka Lifestyle Campaign

Topeka Youth Commission

$100M in Downtown Investment

Early Childhood Development

Bring Back the Boulevard

Plug & Play Walmart Distribution Center Innovation Campus GO Topeka Wins/Metrics Poverty Down 44%

Wheatfield Village Sherwood Crossing Wanamaker Hills

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GDP up $1B Average Wages up 33%

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Learn more at Momentum2022.com

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2022

MOMENTUM

mo∙men∙tum

[/mō´men(t)ә m, mә ’men(t)ә m/] noun the force that drives something forward to keep it moving

By KIM GRONNIGER

Momentum 2022 began in 2016 with input from a wide range of individuals committed to course-correcting issues identified through a comprehensive county assessment undertaken by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The survey highlighted concerns about everything from economic development and education to poverty and community pride. The report’s findings galvanized local leaders, who built an extensive framework for shoring up the community’s weaknesses and capitalizing on its considerable strengths. Four participants in the process share their perceptions about progress made so far and preview areas that will be addressed in the next five-year plan.

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A STRATEGIST’S ASSESSMENT Michelle Stubblefield PHOTO SUBMITTED

Michelle Stubblefield, senior vice president of strategy for the Greater Topeka Partnership, said that while significant headway has been made on many Momentum 2022 goals, “there is no such thing as complete” as one fiveyear plan wraps up and another begins.

“We’ve made strides in comparison to where we were, but we still have work to do to offer higher wages, further reduce poverty, be more intentional about diversity, equity and inclusion, and influence factors that affect families and financial stability through social services and economic development,” she said.

Among Momentum 2022’s many successes, Stubblefield said a few that stand out for her are dynamic core amenities like the Evergy Plaza and new downtown businesses, Plug and Play, the Choose Topeka relocation program, a grant to address digital equity, the Washburn Tech East campus, the creation of Pine Ridge small development grants and the Top City Internship program.

Plug and Play has positioned the capital city as a worldwide resource for agtech startups. Choose Topeka garnered mention from multiple national media outlets for a program providing a cash incentive up to $15,000 for persons interested in relocating to Topeka.

“We’re speaking with a number of people who want to move away from large metropolitan areas, especially after the pandemic,” she said. “We’ve heard from people with no ties to the community, boomerang individuals with some history with the city who want to raise their families here and retirees considering coming

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back because they see Topeka as a wonderful option.”

The Kansas Health Foundation provided a $250,000 grant to pay for a part-time digital coordinator and a part-time technician to improve digital access for families. The program is administered through the City of Topeka.

“With classes being conducted online for so many months during COVID-19, the need for digital access and affordability became critical,” Stubblefield said.

Describing the opening of Washburn Tech East as a “fantastic win,” Stubblefield said the campus has created post-secondary opportunities for skill development and helped overcome transportation issues for students who had difficulty getting to the main complex in the southwest section of the city.

Stubblefield said the Pine Ridge neighborhood has benefited from small community development opportunities to spur entrepreneurship in the area.

The Top City Internship program, a collaboration among multiple companies led by Forge, the Greater Topeka Partnership’s young professionals organization, provides immersive experiences so participants can see firsthand what the community has to offer as they consider where they want to start their careers.

Stubblefield said several things are poised to help Momentum 2022 finish strong and potentially transition into the next strategy. SAVE (Strategies Against Violence Everywhere) is a local initiative designed to curb gun violence. The program is managed TK Business Magazine

by the Topeka Center for Peace and Justice and the Shawnee County District Attorney’s Office, along with national consulting support.

A group of public and private community members have established “Bring Back the Boulevard,” a grassroots beautification campaign focused on the South Topeka Boulevard gateway.

“Other initiatives that will continue to bubble up that will surely be part of the next strategy are riverfront development, childcare and food deserts,” she said.

Stubblefield said the Riverfront Advisory Council is developing a multi-use strategy that will consider the river’s landscape and integrate additional opportunities for recreation, dining and entertainment to build upon the plan’s quality of life component.

The Kansas Health Foundation provided funding to support an early childhood literacy coordinator managed through the United Way of Greater Topeka to complement the efforts of the Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library, Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library, the Kansas Children’s Discovery Center Discovery Kindergarten program and others.

A lifelong Topekan, Stubblefield said she is energized by Momentum 2022’s evolving strategic focus and the extensive support of so many people, whether active participants in the process or beneficiaries of the inroads being made.

“There’s much more hope as we’re able to see what we’re capable of as a community,” she said.

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A BUSINESS PROFESSIONAL’S PERSPECTIVE Keith Warta PHOTO SUBMITTED

Keith Warta, president of Bartlett & West, has served as a tri-chair of Momentum 2022 since the initiative’s inception in 2016.

Warta’s impetus for involvement stemmed from the county assessment finding that only 10 percent of people surveyed thought their children would remain in the community as adults.

“It just floored me,” said Warta.

“I think commitment to family and having grandparents around as a support structure for kids growing up is so important. That 10 percent figure continues to motivate me because I have children that I want to see be part of our community and I know others feel the same about their kids too.”

From a business perspective, Warta said Bartlett & West’s mission to “lead communities to a better tomorrow” aligns well with Shawnee County’s transformation strategy.

“Our company is committed to creating vibrant and attractive places and infrastructure that adds to quality of life,” he said. “The work I do for the company and the work I do for Momentum 2022 are near and dear to my heart.”

Warta said his company, along with many others, is competing to attract technical resources “from a pool in the Midwest that’s not large.”

He credits the “liveliness” of Forge activities to engage young professionals and enhanced amenities downtown as assets in the company’s recruitment and retention efforts.

“There’s a new attitude about Topeka now,” Warta said. “We can take candidates downtown on a Wednesday night and show them

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vibrant restaurants and people enjoying themselves. It’s made such a difference.”

Of the many things Momentum 2022 has accomplished in five years, Warta’s top three accomplishments include facilitating a shift in attitude, establishing the Greater Topeka Partnership and reducing poverty.

“This is a much more positive community than when I arrived 35 years ago with an engineering degree from Kansas State University,” Warta said. “Just a few years ago, the county assessment headlines indicated that most people were not likely to recommend our city to others. Now, there’s so much positivity. Our net promoter score moved up more than 40 percent from 2017 to 2019.”

The Greater Topeka Partnership was created as an umbrella organization to integrate economic development and community enhancement initiatives.

“The process was fragmented before with the efforts of Downtown Topeka Inc., the Chamber and GO Topeka often overlapping one another,” he said. “Now there’s more coordinated funding and consistent messaging, an accomplishment that can’t be undervalued.”

Warta said the county’s poverty rate has dropped 44 percent over a 10-year period. Although progress in this area was already being made before Momentum 2022, Warta said the initiative has had “a huge impact” on reducing generational poverty and enhancing economic opportunities for more people.

A complementary component that will be given further attention in the next five-year plan is housing

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across the spectrum of price ranges and neighborhood locations.

“The value statement we’re centered on with Momentum 2022 is access to opportunity for everyone,” said Warta. “When you have a public value statement like that, it’s important to have different voices participating in the process to reach all segments of the county.”

Warta said an East Topeka council has been established to ensure issues related to infrastructure, housing, technical education and other needs are top of mind.

Although the pandemic slowed progress in some areas of the comprehensive plan, such as additional downtown development and cradle to career initiatives, Warta said leaders learned valuable lessons about racial justice during 2020.

“As a result, we’ve put more emphasis on diversity, equity and inclusion,” he said. “Glenda Washington’s position as chief equity and opportunity officer at the Greater Topeka Partnership will be really important to facilitating discussions.”

Warta is optimistic about the next stage of the strategic plan and heartened by the ways in which people in Topeka and Shawnee County now talk about the area.

“It’s such a different ballgame than when I arrived in Topeka,” he said. “It’s just so powerful to have the business community, elected officials and organizations like the Greater Topeka Partnership and the Topeka Community Foundation all working in the same direction. The stars are aligned now to continue making changes.”

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A FUNDER’S COMMITMENT Marsha Pope PHOTO SUBMITTED

Topeka Community Foundation President Marsha Pope’s a-ha moment occurred in 2016 when the Robert Wood Johnson assessment revealed that health in Shawnee County had gotten worse instead of better over time.

“We had granted millions of dollars to programs that hadn’t produced the outcomes we wanted,” she said.

“Health care was the third largest area our foundation and our donors cared about, and the data told us we had to do something differently.”

Pope also learned that 20 percent of a person’s physical well-being is determined by genetics, 20 percent by health care access and 60 percent by zip code.

“Just by virtue of zip code, a person’s health could be different than someone living just five miles away,” she said.

“We realized that we could focus on improving neighborhoods as a way to improve health.”

Pope, who became president of the foundation in 2016, brought together a Kansas Leadership Center facilitator and representatives from Stormont Vail, the Topeka Police Department, the Topeka Rescue Mission, the Greater Topeka Partnership and other entities to assess social determinants that were having an adverse effect on health.

At the same time, the Greater Topeka Partnership was starting community conversations about Momentum 2022.

“As we were having internal discussions about what to do, the Greater Topeka Partnership was talking about holistic economic prosperity for all so our goals were aligned,” said Pope. “The effort was no longer just nonprofits helping the less fortunate but an inclusive call to action to change systems, policies and environments.”

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The three funders of Momentum 2022 are the Greater Topeka Partnership, the Topeka Community Foundation and the Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library.

Pope said that before the Greater Topeka Partnership and Momentum 2022, the foundation hadn’t had an opportunity to interact with the Chamber of Commerce “in a meaningful way, so to be invited to participate and be perceived as having an important voice in this process was wonderful.

The Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library was also brought in and seen as an entity that does more for the community than provide books. There has been this realization about the importance of working together not for what’s best for individual organizations, but what’s best for the community.”

The St. Francis Health Center Foundation transferred its assets to the Topeka Community Foundation after Ardent Health Services purchased the hospital in 2017. Those funds, along with estate gifts and other monies, account for $95 million in foundation assets and investments across 400 funds.

“After the study’s findings, we realized we couldn’t grant our way to success,” said Pope. “Instead of investing in businesses around the world, we decided to move our approach from transaction to transformation and invest in social good in Shawnee County through our Impact Investing initiative.”

The Kansas Health Foundation provided funds for the Topeka Community Foundation to learn about local impact investing and develop guidelines and policies around the process.

One of the foundation’s first initiatives included providing funds in the Hi-Crest neighborhood for SENT

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Prep Academy, an early education center; supporting affordable housing initiatives; and identifying food access obstacles.

“If you don’t have transportation, you may have to walk to a Dollar General or Dollar Tree to get groceries, and when you get there, you won’t find fresh fruit or vegetables,” she said. “And you may not feel safe making the trip because your area may be known for violence or may not have sidewalks.”

When the pandemic arrived, the foundation temporarily shifted back to transaction mode to help nonprofits stay afloat.

“Nonprofits had immediate needs, so we would make decisions within 48 hours and hand deliver checks so they could continue their important work,” she said.

Pope said previously the city and county would experience an economic win like the arrival of the Mars Wrigley manufacturing facility and then there would be a dry spell waiting for the next big thing to materialize.

“Now we have Evergy Plaza, Plug and Play and so many things happening to grow our community and build momentum,” she said. “There’s a feeling of positivity and possibility. People are wearing Topeka shirts and flying Topeka flags off their porches. You can feel the sense of pride as people catch a vision of what we can be.”

The foundation’s two-fold focus for the next five years will be on community health and mental health, the latter of which will use the St. Francis Health Center funds earlier allocated to the foundation for that purpose.

“Ten years ago our community wasn’t ready to undertake the hard work being done now to provide positive changes across the board,” Pope said. “I give Matt Pivarnik (president and CEO of the Greater Topeka Partnership) a lot of credit for opening his arms and inviting people and organizations to be part of the team, as well as Mayor Larry Wolgast (former mayor) and Shelly Buhler (former county commissioner) for displaying a great example from the start about how public and private organizations can come together to make progress.”

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AN EDUCATOR’S PASSION JuliAnn Mazachek PHOTO SUBMITTED

JuliAnn Mazachek’s roles as vice president for academic affairs and associate professor at Washburn University blend her personal and professional passions to help students reach their potential. A member of the Momentum 2022 executive council, Mazachek has been tasked with overseeing the plan’s cradle to career efforts.

“When Momentum 2022 got underway, I knew that at the core of any vibrant community, there must be a highly qualified workforce to support job growth in the business community,” she said. “Education, whether it’s high school or Washburn University or Washburn Tech, has to play a role to make sure we have the strongest workforce possible.”

Initiatives to address all facets of education delivery were underway when the pandemic upended childcare, after-school programs and classroom education across the board.

But even during the pandemic, Mazachek said the team was able to bring people together for conversations and make progress.

“Through our discovery efforts, we were able to determine what organizations were doing and how their work complemented or duplicated services available in the community,” she said. “We were able to pool resources and accomplish more together to address factors that can influence a lifetime continuum of learning.”

An outgrowth of those discussions was a comprehensive inventory of all day care organizations available in the community and establishment of a central listing of resources for job seekers.

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“We thought it was important to create a central resource with links to all the organizations available to make the process easier,” she said. “Now the information is available on the Greater Topeka Partnership website so anyone already in the community or considering relocating here can have access.”

Mazachek said one area that the group will focus on next is making sure students have “a seamless pathway in our community regarding information about careers they want to pursue.”

She cited the opening of Washburn Tech East as a solid example of Momentum 2022’s efforts to provide post-secondary education opportunities in an underserved area, facilitating both economic development and educational opportunities.

“What we found during this process is that there are certain goals that appear in multiple pillars,” she said. “You can’t discuss goals in isolation. When talking about education, you also have to talk about social services and housing because not having a warm coat or shoes or food can impact learning. It’s all intertwined. Our partners are helping us meet those needs too so we can ensure students across the entire spectrum of backgrounds, P-20, can get an education and know about opportunities available when they’re old enough to join the workforce.”

At the university level, Washburn leverages its extensive relationships with the business community to offer internships, operates a robust Ichabod Student Success program focused on freshmen and offers a food pantry to students who may be stretched financially. Washburn also works closely with local high schools to support and ensure clear pathways to further students’

TK Business Magazine

educations and prepare them for careers.

One of the things Mazachek has enjoyed most about participating in Momentum 2022 initiatives is the diverse composition of the steering committee and community partners.

“We all have a different perspective and experience to bring forward and we’re all passionate about Topeka and Shawnee County,” said Mazachek.

In particular, Mazachek is excited that so many young people are taking part in the process.

“I’m fortunate in my role that I get to work with young people all the time but that is not the case for some,” she said. “I’m in the back half of my career, along with others in the group, and we recognize it’s critical that young people are involved and have the opportunity to significantly influence what happens to shape our community. These next generations must share how they want to live and what they want to see here in the future if we want our community to continue to thrive.”

Mazachek said that Momentum 2022 established “audacious goals” that will continue through the next five-year plan.

“When Momentum 2022 first rolled out, many people were skeptical and even doubted that we’d be able to accomplish much,” she said. “I knew that I wasn’t going to stand on the sidelines and let that happen, and so many others felt the same. While there will always be more to accomplish, we’ve made tremendous progress. The important work we’re doing to create a thriving community where people want to live, work and play will continue and we know it is inevitable that Topeka will be even more amazing in the future.” TK

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Photo by EMMA HIGHFILL

Red Door Home Store

n o i t a n i t es RETAIL

The Toy Store

By ERIC SMITH Photos by EMMA HIGHFILL

Photo by EMMA HIGHFILL

D

The Firehouse Boutique & Studio

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Photo by EMMA HIGHFILL

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Whether it’s toys, clothing and accessories, home décor and gifts, jewelry, or do-it-yourself items, Topeka has several hidden gems that attract patrons from out of town and even out of state.

When you’re out and about this holiday season looking for gifts for friends and family, don’t forget about these options.

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Photo by EMMA HIGHFILL

RED DOOR HOME STORE

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For owners Jesse and Stacie Borjon, their Fairlawn Plaza home goods store, 2131 S.W. Fairlawn Plaza Dr., continues to be a destination shopping experience for folks in the area.

“We are very grateful for the support that Topeka has provided,” said Jesse Borjon.

“We get customers from all over northeast Kansas and folks that, when they travel to see friends and relatives in Topeka, make it a point to stop by and shop with us. We’re grateful for all of that.”

“We offer a warm welcome and a wonderful collection of classic furniture, home accessories, seasonal products and holiday décor,” Borjon said.

“Our fragrances and candles are some of our customers’ favorite items.”

Additionally, the store also offers some gourmet food items and does custom florals, seasonal decorating, as well as in-home decorating services.

The business the couple opened in 2015 has done so well it has expanded in recent years with a seasonal pop-up store at

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Town Center Plaza in Leawood.

Red Door started the KC-area pop-up store in 2019 but sat out in 2020 due to the coronavirus.

“What was fun to see about 2020 was that folks who had found us at our Leawood location made the trek to Topeka, and shopped with us here,” Borjon said. “And they wanted to know: Where should we go to have lunch? What other shops are in Topeka? What other things should we do while we’re here?

That was really cool to see.”

The seasonal pop-up store is back this year at 4840 W. 119th in Leawood. The KC-area store, which opened Oct. 1 and is doing business through Dec. 31, has more focus on a seasonal collection, offering items for fall, Christmas, holiday, as well as some furniture and everyday home décor pieces.

“We pride ourselves on customer service and really meeting the needs of customers when they come in,” Borjon said.

“We also feel like our selection is a step above, and we try to carry a good variety.”

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OFFERING THE BEST OF TOPEKA

Jesse Borjon | Owner | Red Door Home Store Photo by EMMA HIGHFILL

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

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Michele Billam | Owner | MB Addis & Co. Photo by EMMA HIGHFILL

MB ADDIS & CO.

Sometimes, the stars align and send you a message.

That was the case for Shawnee Heights and Washburn University graduate Michele Billam about a year ago, as she was going through the pandemic like much of the rest of the world, working a ton of hours on Zoom.

A 15-year veteran of the corporate jewelry industry with positions at Zales, Helzberg Diamonds and Louis Vuitton, and lots of international travel, she had a vision of returning to the capital city and opening a store that would reinvent retail jewelry.

“I just had this strong feeling that I wanted to do this now,” Billam said. “I felt like the time was right.”

So, she put plans in place to make it happen, and on

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Shop

DOWNTOWN During this upcoming holiday season, find a mix of new retailers among your giftable favorites.

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Photo by EMMA HIGHFILL

Photo by EMMA HIGHFILL

Sept. 25 held the MB Addis & Co. grand opening at 923 S. Kansas Ave. The story gets more interesting.

This location is on the same block as a former jewelry store owned by Margaret Addis who Billam said was the first woman jeweler recognized in the United States when she started into the business in the early 1900s.

Billam was so blown away when she discovered Addis was from Topeka that she named her store in part after this amazing pioneer of the industry. The MB is Billam’s initials.

“It’s a really cool feeling to know that I’m sort of back doing

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this thing that this area was already known for,” she said. “It was pretty significant in 1906 to not only have a woman entrepreneur but also someone in the jewelry industry, which was a very traditional industry at the time.”

With MB Addis & Co., Billam is going for a modern approach and an upscale shopping environment that focuses on the customer experience along with having a large selection of diamond, gemstones and jewelry.

“It feels amazing when you walk in the door,” Billam said. “It’s light, and it’s bright. We’re in a historic building, which has been really fun. The store feels very open and inviting. It’s meant to be very engaging, a place you pass on the

TK Business Magazine

street and you go, ‘Oh my gosh, that looks amazing. I want to go in there.’”

The new business offers a bar with a complimentary cup of coffee or a glass of wine while you shop. It also provides a complimentary ring cleaning.

Additionally, Billam said her store stands above the rest because of her expansive jewelry knowledge, experience, connections to the right people and access to a largecurated assortment of suppliers and manufacturers.

“I’m really looking forward to building this business and getting involved in the community,” Billam said. “It has been really amazing to return home and sort of give birth to this dream here.”

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

Sylvia Davis, Deputy Director of Operations

Driving community and industry forward, together.

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www.bartlettwest.com

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Stephanie Stromgren | Owner | Prairie Trading Company Photo by EMMA HIGHFILL

PRAIRIE TRADING COMPANY

Twenty-three years is a long time for any business to be open, but that’s how long the consignment boutique in Brookwood Shopping Center has had its doors open to capital city customers.

Owner Stephanie Stromgren approaches her family business at 2900 S.W. Oakley Ave. more as a retail boutique and less of a thrift or retail store, and that’s felt in everything in the store, from the dressing rooms to the displays.

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The store specializes in more upscale clothing and accessories for women and men and offers some home décor, furniture pieces and art. Most items are pre-owned, and they do carry some vintage, antique and new merchandise.

“Basically, what we carry are top name brands and designer brands that are two to three years old or new that are in excellent condition,” Stromgren said. “For some of the stores that aren’t in Topeka, people can come here and buy items rather than driving to Kansas City. And they can support Topeka and small businesses by doing it.

And of course, they’re a lot less expensive.”

Although they’re not all active simultaneously, Stromgren said Prairie Trading Company has more than 3,000 consigners.

“I think that our consigner base is probably the number one thing that makes us stand out because of the types of items we’re able to get,” she said.

“We’re able to be really particular

TK Business Magazine

because we have a large and loyal consigner base, and I think a lot of that comes from the way we handle them.”

With COVID, Stromgren said many retail stores were short on inventory because of how things closed during one season and opened during another. Stores also suffered from manufacturing and shipping issues. She said she feels lucky in this regard because Prairie Trading Company was great right out of the chute when they reopened. “[Our inventory] was already in our consigners’ closets,” Stromgren said. “And they spent time while they were at home, organizing and cleaning out stuff. So, we had a huge influx of inventory.”

The store began using consignment kits during the pandemic and continues to use those today. The process involves having everything bagged, sealed and tagged and then brought in by consigners. The bags remain closed for 72 hours before being opened by staff.

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THE TOY STORE

The Toy Store has been a Topeka staple for so long that owner Margaret Warner is helping customers who were first-time parents in her business 30-plus years ago, now shop for toys for their grandchildren.

“We love our customers, and we love seeing the generational customers come back in,” said store merchandise manager Emily Guffey. “It’s nice to continue to have the same customers for years, literally, even if we go decades between seeing them.”

One of the largest independently owned toy stores in the world, The Toy Store was first opened in downtown Topeka in 1976 by Mary Warner, Margaret’s mother, before eventually settling at the current location at 5300 S.W. 21st St. (across from Fairlawn Plaza).

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Photo by EMMA HIGHFILL

Emily Guffey | Merchandise Manager | The Toy Store

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Margaret has run the store since 1984.

Additionally, Margaret’s son Nick Guffey, store manager at the downtown Lawrence location (936 Massachusetts), and his wife Emily are part of the third generation of the family to help run the store.

Guffey said the store inspires creativity, individual thinking and community awareness through play and reading while offering a wide selection of hand-picked children’s toys, books, games, gifts, puzzles and more.

“Staff is trained in child development and play, so

TK Business Magazine

they’re able to help anyone pick a toy for a child at any age at any stage,” Guffey said.

“We have a nice mix of what people would consider current trendy toys but also very classic nostalgia toys that people really love and appreciate.”

The store’s top-selling items recently, Guffey said, are Legos and Squishables, which are plush pillow-type stuffed objects.

“Business is good,” Guffey said. “We’ve kept growing. Like everybody, we did have a small dip during COVID, but we’ve come back stronger this year, and it’s been really wonderful.”

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Susan Dickerson | Owner | The Hub of Topeka Photo by EMMA HIGHFILL

Photo by EMMA HIGHFILL

THE HUB OF TOPEKA

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When you shop at The Hub of Topeka, you have the unique opportunity to shop at six different boutiques, all in one.

The collective, trendy boutique marketplace at 5333 S.W. 22nd Place in Fairlawn Plaza has been in business for more than 10 years and offers women’s clothing, kids clothing, doll costumes, stylish gifts, apparel, accessories and home décor from a variety of local Kansas vendors.

As owner Susan Dickerson describes it, The Hub rents space to different boutiques to move in.

“It has the feel of just one boutique,” Dickerson said. “It doesn’t feel like vendor shopping.

That way, you get a lot of price points and styles, all under one roof.”

The vendors at The Hub include Jess & Rosie’s, Funky Trunk, Lullaby Loft, Sassy Grace,

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Over the Rainbow, and T&T Styles.

Dickerson said The Hub provides a relaxing and contemporary atmosphere equipped with dressing rooms, a lounge area for kids and adults, and upbeat employees.

Additionally, the store offers merchandise that caters to all styles from contemporary to vintage and classic to shabby chic.

Looking ahead, the store is having a holiday open house at Fairlawn Plaza on Nov. 27.

“We’re slowly coming back to life [after the pandemic]; each month is getting a little better,” Dickerson said. “We’re starting to see more people out and about.

When we were allowed to open back up, we did have a lot of people coming in here shopping saying that they were trying to keep small businesses open, and we really appreciated that.”

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Photo by EMMA HIGHFILL

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DEE & MEE HOBBIES

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Richard Zeller says he remembers shopping at Topeka’s Dee and Mee Hobbies when he was 12 years old.

Fast forward to today, Zeller is in his 11th year of owning and running the store at 5331 S.W. 22nd Place in Fairlawn Plaza.

“People drive here, and their mouths hit the floor,” said Zeller, who is the third owner of the longtime capital city business.

“We are an absolute treasure, and Topeka is very lucky to have a hobby store as nice and as big.”

Zeller said the store has more than $300,000 in inventory of remote control (RC) cars, airplanes, drones, and then traditional hobbies like trains, slot cars, and plastic models.

“I have truck drivers from out of state that stop by Topeka just so they can see the store,” Zeller said. “I get people that come by all the time and say, ‘This place blows away my local hobby shop,’ wherever they’re from.”

TK Business Magazine

While the pandemic was difficult for many, Zeller said that wasn’t the case for him.

“My business has been outstanding the last two years. I’m one of few businesses that COVID has been a bump to business versus a negative to business,” Zeller said. “It’s done the opposite to the hobby shop industry. People want to do stuff, and that’s what they’re spending their money on.”

Zeller emphasizes the “old-school brick and mortar experience” that you get when you can walk in, touch the things, feel them, see them, get superior customer service and buy the items you want instead of possibly making the wrong purchase online still plays a role in this industry.

“If customers come to visit an expert on the subject, they’ll get a free education on why they should buy a certain product, get the pros and cons, and they can make whatever decision is best,” said Zeller.

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Richard Zeller | Owner | Dee & Mee Hobbies

Photo by EMMA HIGHFILL

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RUSTIC CREATIONS AND MORE

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Are you looking to discover your inner creativity and make a unique, customizable wood sign or other wood décor piece for your home, business or event?

Topeka offers a few locally owned do-it-yourself workshop opportunities for those feeling crafty.

One of them, Rustic Creations and More, has new owners in Rich and Wendy Ufford, who took over the business in January 2020.

The family-owned business offers public workshops and private parties where you choose a design, stain and color pallet.

Rustic Creations then provides all the materials to create customized works of art such as signs, decorative boxes and stovetop covers, among other items.

The instructor-led workshops feature step-by-step instructions to guide you through the process from start to finish.

Ufford said her husband and son do the work to get the wood ready, while she does the stencil work. All three of the Uffords’ kids

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play a role in the business, as well as their teenage grandchildren.

“We offer a relaxed and social DIY experience perfect for individuals or groups interested in having a good time and relieving stress,” Wendy Ufford said of the business that has been in Topeka since 2017, adding that Rustic Creations allows you to bring your own drinks and food. “We let you do all the work you want to do on a project, and if you can’t do something, we’ll step in and help you.”

With fall ongoing and winter upcoming, Rustic Creations and More will be hosting holiday events and will have different holidaythemed projects.

Ufford said the DIY-based business is in the process of changing locations, but it can be found online at rusticcreationstopeka.com. The Uffords want patrons to know that workshops or events, such as birthday parties, bachelorette parties and office parties can be scheduled by calling the business.

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Rich & Wendy Ufford | Owners| Rustic Creations and More

Photos by EMMA HIGHFILL

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Ashlie Dains | Angel McGhee, Owner | The Firehouse Boutique & Studio Photo by EMMA HIGHFILL

THE FIREHOUSE BOUTIQUE & STUDIO If there’s one thing owner Angel McGhee wants folks to know about her North Topeka business, The Firehouse Boutique & Studio, it’s the variety the store now has.

“There’s nothing quite like our place,” McGhee said. “There are boutiques, and there are DIYs—but none that offer everything in one place.”

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The Firehouse opened more than three years ago as a do-ityourself workshop where people could come in and complete projects. But after moving to a new location at 3030 N.W. Topeka Blvd., and dealing with the pandemic, McGhee had to sort of shift gears.

So, the store added a boutique clothing line and more home décor.

“Clothing is a huge part of our business right now,” McGhee said. “I feel like we have a really good price point on our clothing.

We try really hard to make sure it’s affordable, good quality, stylish, and up on-trend.”

The Firehouse also offers new and used furniture, a paint line and unique gifts.

McGhee said workshops and group parties have begun again for birthdays, team-building groups, business appreciation groups and the like, offering a way for patrons to come in and be creative with a custom project.

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“It’s just fun,” McGhee said. “You get to know people, especially when they’re sitting in here making stuff for two or three hours.”

The most popular thing to make right now are door hangers, McGhee said, because there are so many different designs they can do. Additionally, the store is gearing up for the upcoming seasons and holidays, and McGhee encourages those who want to do a DIY event to schedule early because they fill up quickly.

During the pandemic, The Firehouse started offering takeand-make kits that offer crafts you can do at home, and that helped the store get through the tough times, McGhee said.

“The community was really instrumental in making sure we made it through the pandemic,” McGhee said. “You could tell that they were very concerned and made a point to shop local.” TK

Photo by EMMA HIGHFILL

Photo by EMMA HIGHFILL

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Leader Topeka LOCAL BUSINESS

SPOTLIGHT PARTNERS

ALL-INCLUSIVE GIFT, HOME DECOR AND MORE In 40 years of existence, Linen Tree & Co. has transformed from a popular bed and bath store to an all-inclusive gift, home decor and more place to shop.

Kelly Schuster, decorator and owner of Linen Tree & Co., recently doubled her retail space in Brookwood Shopping Center in order to meet customer demands.

Linen Tree & Co. “littles” department sells cute and trendy brands like Posh Peanut, Tesa Babe, Mud Pie and others in infant clothing to 6T. Complimentary wrapping allows customers to be “gift-giving ready” as they walk out the door.

Kelly’s amazing merchandise displays at Linen Tree & Co. highlight the store’s selection of accent furniture, lamps and lighting, bedding, kitchen and bath linens, rugs and framed art.

Additionally, you’ll find Trapp candles, Kendra Scott and Spartina jewelry, purses, women’s fine clothing, and home and body fragrances.

Linen Tree & Co. is open Monday-Friday 10am 6pm; Saturday & Sunday 10am - 4pm. Everyone is encouraged to shop local especially for Small Business Saturday Celebration on November 27th. www.linentreeco.com 785-272-9344

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TK Business Magazine

TRENDY, CONTEMPORARY, AFFORDABLE Madison Avenue Boutique is a new contemporary women’s boutique located across from The Burger Stand in the Brookwood Shopping Center. It opened in June and there has been a steady stream of support ever since.

Madison Avenue Boutique offers a wide variety of women’s clothing, jewelry and accessories.

It also carries a popular line of candles, lotions and several different gift options, as well as gift cards.

Madison has always had an interest in the fashion industry, which led to the opening of her own boutique. Her main customer base consists of teens to early professionals, although there is something for everyone!

Madison Avenue Boutique is open MondayFriday 10am - 6pm; Saturday 10am - 4pm.

Also check out the latest arrivals and fashion trends for fall and winter wardrobes on Madison Avenue Boutique’s Facebook and Instagram pages.

RELIABLE, TRUSTWORTHY AND ALWAYS AVAILABLE 785 Bail Bonds is always available when you need bail fast to get released from jail. They are the #1 trusted bail bond company in the area and serve all of Northeast Kansas and surrounding areas.

785 Bail Bonds is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days a year.

785 Bail Bonds offers fast, affordable and convenient service. No matter what type of bail bond you are in need of, rest assured that they will be there when you need them.

Visit 785 Bail Bonds’ website or call for a free consultation on services today. www.785bailbonds.com 785-845-8154

2831 SW 29th St. 785-249-3883

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FROM THE PROFESSOR

PHOTO SUBMITTED

The Economic Impact of Buying Local

By MANAF SELLAK, PH.D. Manaf Sellak, Ph.D. is an Assistant Professor of Economics at the Washburn School of Business.

THE BENEFITS OF

BUYING LOCAL •

Strengthens the local economy

•

Protects the environment

•

Supports small businesses

•

May lead to better living standards The local business community in the State of Kansas has been recovering from the negative implications of the ongoing pandemic using stimulus funds provided by the federal, state and local governments. Along with these government incentives, the practice of “buying local,” in which households’ purchasing behavior prioritizes local goods and services over non-local ones, could ease the negative impact of the current pandemic by strengthening the local business community and maintaining a more robust local economy in the long run.

In a report released on May 20, 2020, the U.S. Small Business

Administration reported that 99.1% of Kansas businesses are small businesses, employing 50.5% of the private workforce.

When consumers buy local, the demand for the local goods and services provided by small businesses increases, thereby increasing the wages, profits, and jobs available in the local economy. In other words, if Kansas households substitute local goods and services made by small local businesses for a portion of non-local goods and services, the State’s economic output will increase; therefore, local businesses gain more revenues, and households would have access to a variety of local products and probably higher local job opportunities. A study published by Maine Center for Economic Policy shows that if residents of Portland were to shift 10% of their spending from chains to locally owned businesses, $127 million value would be added to the local economic activity, and 874 new jobs would be created.

Source: U.S Small Business Administration, May 2020

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BUYING LOCAL is environmentally friendly Local small business owners demand fewer resources to run their businesses, and this causes less environmental disruption than globalized businesses. For example, local farmers’ farm products take less fuel to transport than products shipped from overseas or a long-distance farming location. Food transportation generates fuel emissions and higher energy consumption.

Reducing the distance between where the final products are produced and consumed will reduce fuel emissions and maintain a sustainable environment.

When households purchase local products, they reduce fuel emissions caused by transporting goods from non-local businesses.

BUYING LOCAL generates wealth in our local communities Spending a higher proportion of money in the local economy supports local businesses, which generate a higher income for local people, a higher purchasing power, and more job opportunities. Not only that, but it also generates more tax revenues for the government.

The tax revenues generated by buying local could be used to provide more funds to schools, build better infrastructure, and build cohesive institutions that serve local people’s needs, all of which could lead to better living standards.

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