VOLUME 48, NO. 2
FEBRUARY 2013
A PUBLICATION OF THE GREATER TOPEKA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
GO Topeka Elects 2013 Officers
and Directors
Allan Towle, president of Fidelity State Bank and Trust Company, was
installed as chairman of the board of GO Topeka at the organization’s
February 1 board meeting. He served as chair-elect in 2012 and played
a significant role in securing pledges for the Seizing the Opportunity
campaign that raised private funds that will augment the economic
development sales tax dollars GO Topeka receives under contract with the
Joint Economic Development Organization (JEDO).
Allan Towle
Towle replaces Maynard Oliverius who was the 2012 GO Topeka board chair.
Other officers include Scott Griffith with INTRUST Bank as chair-elect; Wendy Wells with US Bank
as treasurer; Scott Gales with Architect One as secretary. Doug Kinsinger, Chamber/GO Topeka
president & CEO, also serves on the GO Topeka executive committee.
NEW BOARD MEMBERS ELECTED TO THREE-YEAR TERMS WERE:
Linda Briden, Topeka Area Association of Realtors
Russ Briggs, Briggs Auto
Robert Erickson, St. Francis Health Center
Joyce Guerrero, Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation
Matt McPherson, McPherson Contractors, Inc.
Jerry Ney, Aldersgate Village
Keith Warta, Bartlett & West
Rick Wienckowski, retired from Hill’s Pet Nutrition and community volunteer
FEBRUARY
HIGHLIGHTS
Online Registration Available:
TopekaChamber.org
Chamber Lunch Connect
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
Quinton’s Bar & Deli
4121 SW Huntoon
11:45 a.m.- 1:00 p.m.
Call Adrianne Evans to RSVP, 785.234.2644
Federal Forum
Featuring Senator Jerry Moran
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Capitol Plaza Hotel
1717 SW Topeka Boulevard
7:30 a.m. - 8:45 a.m.
$20 per person
*RSVP online
Business After Hours
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Aboud’s Catering
2127 SW Westport Drive
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
No cost to attend
*RSVP online
Fast Forward Ignite Educational Lunch
Thursday, February 21, 2013
Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library
1515 SW Tenth Avenue
Noon - 1:00 p.m.
“Hot Topics”- Free event
*RSVP online
Fast Forward Inspire Series —Dinner Service
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
Topeka Rescue Mission
600 N Kansas Avenue
Email Angel Romero to volunteer:
angel.romerojr@gmail.com
Breakfast Buzz
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
Ramada Convention Center, Madison Room
420 SE Sixth Avenue
7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.
“Selling Without Selling Out”
Speaker: Business Coach Mike Grogan
*RSVP online or by calling 785.231.6000
Fast Forward Networking Social
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Wild Horse Saloon
3249 SW Topeka Boulevard
5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Free for Fast Forward Members; Guests $5
*RSVP online
Candidate School
For those individuals who have filed to run for City
Council Spring 2013
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library,
Marvin Auditorium
6:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
RSVP by calling 785.580.4540
*You are encouraged to make reservations and pay
for these events on the Chamber’s Website at www.
TopekaChamber.org. (See “Register Now” in the center of
the home page.)
Award recipients were commended for their support of the Chamber programs during 2012 during the 2013
Annual Meeting at the Ramada Convention Hotel. See pages 2 and 3 for details.
CHAMBER
eNEWS
ARE YOU GETTING
THE CHAMBER ENEWS?
Make sure the Chamber has
your correct email so you can
receive weekly communication
from the Chamber about events
and projects YOUR Chamber is
involved with! If you’re not getting
eNews on Friday mornings, call
Adrianne at the Chamber and make
sure she has your correct email,
785.234.2644. You might also want
to put into your contact information
the following email so it will get
through your security systems:
msheahan@TopekaChamber.org.
CHAMBER OFFICERS
Coleen Jennison
Chairman of the Board
Neil Dobler
Chairman of the Board-Elect
Brent Boles
Treasurer
Greg Schwerdt
Immediate Past Chairman
Douglas S. Kinsinger
President & CEO
COUNCIL VICE CHAIRMEN
Curtis Sneden
Government Relations
Maynard Oliverius
Development/GO Topeka
Jim Ogle
Leadership
Karla Clem
Marketing
Randy Goldsmith
Membership
CHAMBER
NEWS
Annual Meeting Wrap-up and Awards
Parrish Hotel Corporation was recognized at the 2013 Annual Meeting of the Greater Topeka
Chamber of Commerce as the Chamber Member Firm for 2012. Maynard Oliverius, retired from
Stormont Vail HealthCare and now a community volunteer, was named Member of the Year
for 2012. A crowd of over 600 Chamber members attended the annual luncheon at the Ramada
Convention Hotel in
downtown Topeka.
The official “change of
leadership” was completed
with Coleen Jennison,
Cox Communications,
becoming the 2013 Chamber
Chairman of the Board.
Greg Schwerdt, Schwerdt
Design Group, served as the
2012 Chamber Chairman
of the Board. Allan Towle,
Fidelity State Bank and
Trust, assumed the 2013
chairmanship of the GO
Topeka board of directors,
replacing Maynard
Oliverius, retired from
Stormont-Vail HealthCare,
who served as chairman of
GO Topeka in 2012.
Parrish Hotel Corporation
was recognized for their
ongoing contributions to the
Chamber’s programming
through sponsorship and
hosting of Business After
Hours, Business Expo, the
statewide YP Summit and
The official “change of leadership” from Greg Schwerdt to Coleen Jennison,
2013 Chairwoman of the Board.
Federal Forums. The firm
also has sponsored the annual
Inter-City Visit and they are a corporate member of Fast Forward.
Oliverius, who served as chairman of GO Topeka during 2012, was cited for his focused work
in securing pledges for the Seize the Opportunity fundraising campaign to provide private
dollars that will augment public sales tax dollars from the county-wide sales tax for economic
development that GO Topeka receives via contract with the Joint Economic Development
Organization (JEDO).
The award recipients were commended for their support of Chamber programs and participation
during 2012. “We feel it very important to continue to recognize our own volunteers who promote
the Chamber’s program of work throughout the year,” said Doug Kinsinger, Chamber/GO Topeka
president and CEO.
Other awards presented during the annual meeting included the Top Ambassador Award to
Maggie Kelley, an individual Chamber member. Mickey Shaver, Mickey’s Promotions, was
presented the Top Diplomat Award and Paul Bossert, Premier Employment Solutions, earned the
Fast Forward Member of the Year award.
(continued on page 3)
2
Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce
CHAMBER
NEWS
ANNUAL MEETING WRAP-UP AND AWARDS
(continued from page 2)
Top Ambassador Award was presented to Maggie Kelley (center); Fast Forward
Member of the Year was presented to Paul Bossert (right).
Parrish Hotel Corporation was recognized as Chamber Member Firm for 2012.
James Parrish (right) accepted the award from emcee Shannon Riley.
Maynard Oliverius (right) was named Member of the Year for 2012.
Coleen Jennison (left), new chamber chair, and Doug Kinsinger (second from
left), Chamber/GOTopeka president, visited with keynote speaker Mike Kiley
(second from right), Security Benefit, and Topeka Mayor Bill Bunten (right).
2013 COMMITTEE CHAIRS NAMED
Chamber members have been named chair of the standing committees for the Chamber and GO Topeka. Thanks to those members that
have stepped up to serve and lead the committees!
Inter-City Visit: Neil Dobler, Bartlett & West
Ambassadors: Rise Quinn, Topeka Home Builders Association
Leadership Greater Topeka Planning Committee: Lisa Stubbs, Security Benefit
Leadership Greater Topeka Selection Committee: Becky Holmquist, US Bank
Business After Hours: Ray Remp, CoreFirst Bank & Trust
Chamber Lunch Connect: Sue Buckley, Dynamic Computer Solutions
Chamber Power Breakfast: Barb Barnard, Community Bank
Diplomats: Brenda Smith, Quik Print
Fast Forward Steering Committee: Nathan Morris, Meridian Roofing Solutions
Federal Employers’ Committee: Curtis Sneden, Payless ShoeSource
February 2013
Legislative Information Committee: Curtis Sneden, Payless ShoeSource
Member Benefits Committee: Rise Quinn, Topeka Home Builders Association
Minority & Women Business Development Council: To be named in March
3
ECONOMIC
TRENDS
Monthly Economic Indicators for the Topeka Area Economy
Topeka MSA* (five counties)
Civilian Labor Force
Total
Employed
Unemployed
Unemployment Rate
November 2012
119,647
112,406
7,241
6.10%
Employment (In Thousands)
Non Farm Wage and Salary
Natural Resources/Construction
Manufacturing
Trade, Transportation,
Warehouse, Utilities
Information
Finance Activities
Professional & Business Services
Education & Health Services
Leisure & Hospitality
Other Services
Government
Total
October 2012
119,236
112,202
November 2011
122,575
114,525
7,034
5.90%
8,050
6.6%
November
2012
5.1
7.5
October
2012
5.2
7.5
November
2011
5.0
7.5
18.0
17.6
18.0
1.6
7.1
11.4
17.7
9.1
4.9
25.7
108.1
1.5
7.0
11.2
17.5
9.2
4.9
25.8
107.4
1.7
6.9
10.9
17.4
9.2
4.8
26.2
107.6
*These numbers reflect the five-county MSA. Comparing these figures with 2004 and prior years is not advisable.
Construction Permit Information November October
YTD
November
YTD
City of Topeka
2012
2012
2012
2011
2011
New Single Family Residential Permits
2
12
82
6
74
New Multi-Family Residential Permits
0
5
10
0
3
Value, New Residential Units
$318,000 $2,830,000 $16,832,863
$190,000 $13,673,750
New Commercial Units
5
3
49
3
43
Value, New Commercial Units
$1,180,169 $3,161,400 $33,725,689
$80,400 $10,389,549
New, Commercial Alterations
27
38
442
43
390
Value, Commercial Alterations
$1,940,672 $3,339,040 $27,082,652 $7,228,270 $34,754,516
Construction Permit Information
Unincorporated Shawnee County
New Residential Permits
Value, New Residential Units
New Commercial Buildings
Value, New Commercial Buildings
New Commercial Alterations
Value, Commercial Alterations
Estimated Taxable Sales Topeka/Shawnee County
November October
2012
2012
11
13
$2,394,856 $2,521,428
0
1
$0
$125,000
1
0
$20,000
$0
September 2012
208,535,777
YTD 2012
1,873,413,776
YTD
November
YTD
2012
2011
2011
102
8
88
$19,437,267 $1,675,000 $16,817,668
8
1
5
$6,300,500
$190,000
$590,000
8
0
2
$2,706,068
$0
$721,750
September 2011
217,148,904
YTD 2011
1,830,723,107
ACCRA Cost of Living Data
Selected
Cities
2012 Annual
Average
Little Rock, AR
100.3
Kansas City, KS/MO
99.5
Manhattan, KS
92.9
Topeka, KS
92.5
Oklahoma City, OK
90.8
Des Moines, IA
90.2
Springfield, MO
89.9
Omaha, NE
89.6
Tulsa, OK
89.2
Topeka participates in the ACCRA Cost of Living Index
study which measures differences between areas in the
cost of consumer goods and services, excluding taxes
and non-consumer expenditures, for professional and
managerial households in the top income quintile.
UTILITY HOOK-UPS CITY OF TOPEKA
December
2012
December
2011
Residential
69,094
69,104
Commercial
8,259
8,391
48
48
77,401
77,543
Westar Energy*
Industrial
Total
*Includes those within the Topeka city limits.
Topeka Water**
Residential
Commercial
Total
December
2012
December
2011
50, 810
49,470
4,122
4,107
54,932
53,577
**Includes those within the county who use Topeka water.
Source: Kansas Department of Revenue
Washburn University School of Business Leading Index & Coincidence Index
NOVEMBER 2012
4
The Washburn University School of Business Leading Index
decreased 0.1% in November to a preliminary estimate of 95.1
from 95.2 in October (2005 = 100). The index is a composite of
national, state and county indicators whose movements often
precede changes in economic growth. The leading index is up
0.4% over the last three months and down 0.1% over the last 6
months.
The Washburn University School of Business Coincident Index,
which measures current economic conditions in Shawnee
County increased 1.0% in November to a preliminary estimate
of 97.9 from 97.0 in October (2005 = 100). The index is a composite index of county non-farm employment and taxable sales.
The coincident index is up 0.4% over the last six months and up
0.5% from November 2011.
Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce
COMMUNITY
NEWS
Pies & Politics Added as New Chamber Benefit
PIE
&
POLITICS
A Program of the Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce
Watch future E-News notices
for a new program called PIE &
POLITICS. This program will offer
members the opportunity to meet
with legislators to discuss current
“hot topics” at the Statehouse.
These meeting will be in the Chamber Board Room on Friday
afternoons, seating is limited so registration will be required.
Bartlett and West is sponsoring PIE & POLITICS as an opportunity
for Chamber members to hear firsthand about legislative issues
and enter into the discussion. Watch for the announcement of
the PIE & POLITICS events in upcoming eNews emails on Friday
mornings.
If you’re not getting the Chamber eNews early on Friday mornings,
please make sure we have your current email by calling Adrianne
Evans, Chamber vice president membership, at 785.234.2644.
YP Summit Announces Key Speakers
The fourth annual YP Kansas Summit
will be Thursday, April 4, at the Ramada
Convention Center, 420 SE Sixth Avenue.
The Summit will be a day jam packed with
innovative breakout sessions, inspiring
speakers and fun aimed at helping young
professionals grow both personally and
professionally.
Mitch Holthus
Mitch Holthus, “the Voice” of the Kansas
City Chiefs will be the keynote speaker at
this year’s Summit. He is the longest tenured and most decorated
play-by-play voice in franchise history and was recently awarded
an Emmy for his video and online work by the Academy of
Television Arts and Sciences.
Other key speakers will be Ed O’Malley, president and CEO of the
Kansas Leadership Center, and Shannon Reilly, artistic director at
the Topeka Civic Theatre & Academy.
Early bird registration which goes through March 15 is $55.00 a
person; after March 15, registration goes up to $65.00 a person.
Lunch only tickets (to hear Mitch Holthus) are available for $25
per person and table sponsorships are available for $250.00. For
more information or to register for the YP Summit, go to www.
ypkansas.com or contact Jennifer at jowen@topekachamber.org or
785.234.2644.
Fast Forward Membership Renewal Campaign
Underway
It’s time for Fast Forward members to renew their membership
for 2013. Individual memberships for those that work for
Chamber member firms is $50 and can be paid online at www.
fastforwardtopeka.org or by sending your check to the Chamber,
attention Jennifer Owen.
Fast Forward membership allows members to attend most Fast
Forward events free of charge as well as receive regular eNews
blasts about YP friendly events in our community.
Corporate memberships are also available that allow a firm to
have multiple members as well as recognition that the firm is
supportive of retaining and recruiting young professionals to our
community.
February 2013
Events scheduled during the balance of first quarter include
networking socials at the Wild Horse Saloon and Topeka Habitat
for Humanity; insiders events (behind the scenes tours) at Topeka
High School and the Kansas State Capitol Building; and Ignite
Luncheons at the Library and Washburn. Fast Forward members
are also continuing their dinner service once a month at the
Topeka Rescue Mission.
If you have questions, call Jennifer Owen at 75.234.2644, or check
out www.fastforwardtopeka.org.
5
GOTOPEKA
NEWS
“Selling Without Selling Out” Topic of Breakfast Buzz
Business Coach Mike Grogan will offer an uncommon approach to
other’s expense, the prospect is viewed as a capable decision-maker
who may or may not need your product or service and who might or
might not be a good customer for you. Grogan says, “selling is not so
much about what you “do,” but who you “are” during the process.”
Grogan will explore the myths of selling and open a new paradigm
for engaging prospects in dialogue. Rather than seeing prospects as
an adversary in a contest, where both sides are trying to win at the
Tickets are $15 for Chamber members and EMBD graduates; $20 for the
general public. RSVP online, or by calling Mary Ann at 785.231.6000.
selling and customer service at the Wednesday, February 27 Breakfast
Buzz event from 7:30 a.m.-9:00 a.m. at the Ramada Convention Center
in the Madison Room.
Lean Six Sigma Classes Offered This Spring
The Yellow Belt level of Lean Six Sigma, a structured and systematic
method for organizational improvement, will be presented by
Washburn’s Center for Organizational Excellence twice this spring—
March 21-22 and May 2-3.
The Yellow Belt is a foundation level course that provides a basic
understanding of methodologies with the goal of improved project
management skills, problem solving and more effective cross
functional teams. The course will also provide an understanding
of the more advanced levels of Six Sigma knowledge and skills. The
course is appropriate for anyone working at any level within an
organization and in any industry, particularly those practitioners
who are overseeing projects, looking for a formal improvement
process or looking for ways to improve customer satisfaction.
Course sessions are from 8:15 a.m.-4:45 p.m. with additional
application assignments. The cost is $730 per person. For registration
information go to www.washburn.edu/ao or call 785.670.1399.
The program is offered by the Washburn School of Business,
Washburn Academic Outreach and the Greater Topeka Chamber of
Commerce/GO Topeka.
Sponsorships Available for Small Business Awards
The annual Small Business Awards Luncheon will be Wednesday,
May 15 at the Washburn Union from noon-1:30 p.m. Presented by GO
Topeka and the Chamber, the event will honor an outstanding nonprofit, minority & women business, an emerging entrepreneur and
Ribbon cutting ceremonies for the new multi-million dollar expansion at State
Street Elementary School were January 17. New classrooms, a gym and other
support rooms were constructed as part of connecting State Street Elementary
with Chase Middle School on Topeka Public Schools property at 500 NE Sumner.
6
the Capital City Business of Distinction for 2013.
Sponsorships for this event are available at various levels ranging
from $350 to $1,500. Please call Tiffany Hall at 785.234.2644, ext. 243
for information.
Ribbon cutting ceremonies for the Kanza Cafe, 2701 SW East Circle Drive on the
grounds of Kanza Park, were January 22. At right Larry Robbins, representing
Topeka Public Schools, spoke about the Cafe which is not only a a resource for
training students in restaurant management skills and food preparation, but it
also provides food for several schools and Meals on Wheels. The Cafe, open to
the public for breakfast and lunch, can be reached from MacVicar entrances onto
the grounds of the former state hospital.
Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce
COMMUNITY
NEWS
Candidate School Scheduled
The second of two sessions of the 2013
Candidate School will be Thursday, February
28 from 6:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. at the Topeka &
Shawnee County Public Library. Registration
is required for this session (call 785.580.4540).
This session, for those who have actually
filed for a city council office, will cover public
service expectations, working with the
public and constituents, image building, open
meetings rules and Roberts Rules of Order,
working together and consensus building and
weathering controversy.
Candidate School is not intended to provide an
exhaustive education of all relevant issues and
campaign methods, but is designed to assist
in a candidate’s decision making process and
help them learn first-hand from people with
experience in the process. Candidates are
encouraged to come learn and ask questions.
Candidate School is coordinated by Downtown
Topeka, League of Women Voters, CRC, the
Topeka Chamber, North Topeka Business
Alliance and the Topeka & Shawnee County
Public Library. Persons attending Candidate
School are not endorsed by any of these
organizations.
Senator Moran to Speak
Kansas Senator Jerry Moran will speak at a Chamber Federal Forum
Tuesday, February 19 from 7:30 a.m.-8:45 a.m. in the Emerald Ballroom
at the Capitol Plaza Hotel, 1717 SW Topeka Boulevard. Tickets are $20
and are available through the Chamber’s online registration system or
by returning the flyer that was in your Chamber mailing. AT&T is the
presenting sponsor with additional sponsorship from the U.S. Chamber of
Commerce.
Senator Jerry Moran
MULTIPLY
YOUR BUSINESS.
REACH CHAMBER COLLEAGUES BY ADVERTISING
IN TOPEKA BUSINESS DURING 2013.
Business card size ads:
• $100 for one month, or
• $250 for three months.
Double business card size ads:
• $200 for one month, or
• $500 for three months.
Call Marsha Sheahan or Tiffany Hall for
details: 785.234.2644.
February 2013
SMALL BUSINESS
RESOURCE DIRECTORY
AVAILABLE
The Chamber, in cooperation
with the Washburn Small
Business Development
Center, offers a Small
Business Resource Directory
that is available free of charge
to individuals interested
in starting a new business
in our community. If you
or someone you know is
considering starting a
small business, stop by
the Chamber office and
pick up a directory.
THINKING OF ADDING
EMPLOYEES OR
EXPANDING YOUR
FACILITY?
There may be $$$ available to
you in the form of tax incentives
and small business or employee
on-the-job training programs!
Call GO Topeka at YOUR
Greater Topeka Chamber of
Commerce for more details –
785.234.2644.
Dawn Wright
Vice President
Economic Development
Jo Feldmann
Vice President
Existing Business
Cyndi Hermocillo-Legg
Vice President
Entrepreneurial and Minority
Business Development
7
MEMBERSHIP
NEWS
REINVESTMENTS
Thanks to those Chamber member firms and organizations that have renewed their commitment to the growth and development of
the Greater Topeka community through Chamber membership.
A T & T Inc.
A-1 Lock and Key, L.L.C.
Absolute Design by Brenda
Alderson, Alderson, Weiler, Conklin, Burghart & Crow LLC
Allegiant Networks
AmericINN
Anthony Jaramillo
Antioch Family Life Center
Architect One, P.A.
Blind Tiger Brewery & Restaurant
Sharon Boranyak
Breakthrough House, Inc.
Brian Ismert - Northwestern Mutual
Buffalo Wild Wings Grill & Bar
Capital Area Gymnastics
Cavanaugh & Porter, PA
CenturyLink
Clayton Financial Services, Inc.
Colmery-O’Neil VA Medical Center
Commercial Fleet Repair
Community Bank
Cornerstone Construction
Country Inn & Suites
Cowabunga Safaris
Cumulus Broadcasting
Darrell’s Shell
Diamond Everley Roofing
Doug Richert Pontiac Cadillac
Duffens Optical Co.
Easter Seals Capper Foundation
EC Enterprises
Ed Swift
Faith Roofing Company
Fidelity State Bank & Trust Co.
Foulston Siefkin LLP
Framewoods of Topeka, Inc & Southwind Gallery
Frito-Lay, Inc.
G & S Marketing
Gaches, Braden and Associates
Gray & Company
Hallmark Cards, Inc.
HealthWorks
Heartland Hospice
Heartland Park Topeka
Heartland Title Services, Inc.
Hospice Care of Kansas
ICI Manufacturing
International Brotherhood of
Electrical Workers Local Union #304
JB Turner & Sons Roofing & Sheet Metal
Johnny Carino’s Italian
jones huyett Partners
Kansas Hospital Association
Kansas Turnpike Authority
Kentucky Fried Chicken
Land Air Express Inc/Emporia
Freight & Delivery
Lewis Toyota
Mark Boling Construction Inc.
Maximus Fitness & Wellness/
Woodvalley Racquet & Fitness Center
MBI, Inc.
Michael L. Van Dyke, CLU,CHFC
Midwest Health
Mize Houser & Company P.A.
Ogden Publications, Inc.
OneAmerica Securities Inc.
P1 Group, Inc.
Peoples Benefit Group
Peterson Architectural Group
Professional Fire Alarm Systems Inc.
PT’s Coffee Roasting Company
Shawnee Heights USD 450
Shawnee Lawn & Landscape
Sovanski Photography
Subway (J. Orange LLC)
Sunflower Foundation: Health Care for Kansans
Susan Shaw - AFLAC
The Oread
Topeka Area Association of REALTORS Inc.
The Topeka Capital-Journal
Topeka Harley-Davidson
Topeka Public Schools, USD 501
Valentine, Zimmerman & Zimmerman PA
Wal Mart #2131
Walt’s Auto Service Plus, Inc.
Westar Energy
Wild Horse Saloon
Youth Entrepreneurs
NEW ASSIGNEES
Melanie Shannon
Great Life Golf & Fitness at Shawnee County Club
Some Things in Business Need Expertise
A Commercial Real Estate
Transaction is One of Them
Tom Moses, CCIM
Senior Vice President
NAI Martens
Topeka, Kansas
785-232-1602
tmoses@naimartens.com
www.naimartens.com
30 Years Experience
8
Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce
MEMBER
PROFILE
Family Owned Franchise has Family Feel
with every meal along with complimentary ice
cream and dill pickles. Another perk, kids eat
free on Sundays.
The Wenrich family has been active in the
Topeka business community since 1996, when
Dave Wenrich brought a couple new franchise
restaurants to town. After college his sons
Ryan and Eric moved to Topeka to join him
in those business ventures. The Wenrichs
have expanded their investments to property
management, real estate and other restaurants
in our community.
The latest endeavor is Dickey’s Barbeque Pit
located at 609 NW Highway 24, which opened
May 2010.
When looking for something to add to their
portfolio they chose Dickey’s for many reasons.
After eating at a Dickey’s franchise restaurant
they looked into it and found that the franchise
had a “good proven history,” according to Eric
Wenrich, Dickey’s Barbeque Pit operator.
Travis Dickey opened the first Dickey’s
Barbeque Pit in 1941 in Dallas, Texas. Dickey’s
continued to be run as a family owned
business, expanding through the Dallas/Fort
Worth areas. Franchising options began in
1994 and to maintain the same quality and
consistency they offer support to owneroperators from the beginning with Barbeque U,
an intense three week training session where
owners are trained how to run the restaurant
from open to close. There are now nearly 300
of these franchises in the U.S.
Aside from dine-in and take-out Dickey’s
Barbeque Pit offers many catering options.
box lunches, delivery buffet and full service
catering are available. Whether you are feeding
10 or 5,000 Dickey’s can help you out. Find a full
menu at www.Dickeys.com.
On any given day you can find them working
right alongside their staff, meeting customers
and providing customer service. This along
with the great atmosphere of thoughtfully
placed businesses keep their family owned
businesses feeling like family owned businesses
rather than a franchise chain location.
Long time Chamber members and supporters
of GOTopeka and the downtown project, both
agree that watching and being part of the
growth in the community is exciting to see and
experience.
The Wenrichs continue to stay invested and
committed to not only their businesses but
the community. In their free time they stay
busy getting involved with community events
from athletic to philanthropic. Instrumental
in creating the DART, Downtown Adventure
Race Topeka, Ryan Wenrich enjoys bringing
experience from other communities and
sharing with Topeka.
Though both Ryan and Eric never pictured
themselves moving to Topeka after living in
larger cities, they both are very pleased with
their decision. “Topeka is a great place, it has
everything you could need or want. It is what
you make of it.”
Stop by and check out the exceptional
barbeque with a great price at 609 NW Highway
24. For more information on catering call
785.215.8215 or visit www.Dickeys.com.
A Chamber member firm will be featured in Topeka
Business each month. Company names will be
drawn quarterly by the membership department
from the labels prepared for the Chamber Power
Breakfast. Chamber communications specialist
Erin Mohwinkle writes the company profiles.
According to Eric, “We chose North Topeka
for the location because this area of the
community is under served in the dining
category, plus it seemed to be a good fit.”
Unique from many other franchises, every
Dickey’s location smokes their meats in the
restaurant just as it was done in the original
location. They offer smoked beef brisket, pulled
pork, ham, turkey breast, chicken breast, pork
ribs, polish sausage, spicy cheddar sausage
and an extensive choice of home-style sides,
including: jalapeno baked beans, macaroni and
cheese and fried okra. Buttery rolls are served
February 2013
Michelle Moore, restaurant manager and Eric Wenrich, owner/operator show off a few
of their specialties after a busy lunch rush.
9
BUSINESS
NOTATIONS
What qualifies for Business Notations? Tell your Chamber colleagues about your expansions, new locations, awards and
honors, or new products and services. Sorry, personnel changes or announcements are not included. Notation information
should be e-mailed to Marsha Sheahan at msheahan@TopekaChamber.org.
Washburn University’s website,
washburn.edu, was recognized with a
Gold Award in Integrated Advancement
Programs – Complete Institution
Websites at the 2012 Council for
Advancement and Support of Education
(CASE) District VI conference in Chicago, December 9-12. Washburn
embarked on a redesign of its entire website in summer 2011 to better
meet the needs of all constituent groups and to establish a webbased presence for the University’s brand while truly showcasing the
Washburn experience. The new washburn.edu launched May 21, 2012.
Imagery and design for the website were developed by BarkleyREI and
jones huyett Partners.
For the sixth consecutive year, Blue
Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas has
been awarded the Highest Customer
Service Award in the health care
industry by the Service Quality Measurement Group (SQM). The BCBSKS
customer service center also was recertified as a “World Class Certified
Call Center.” This indicates the company’s customer service center
performed at or sustained the World Class call level. “Our dedicated
employees are committed to providing quality customer experiences
by developing a relationship of trust with our fellow Kansans.
We recognize that understanding how our members judge their
interactions with us is crucial to providing them World Class service,”
said Andrew C. Corbin, BCBSKS president/CEO. “It is an honor to receive
the SQM awards because it shows that we are striving to meet our
members’ needs.” For more information, visit www.bcbsks.com.
Book your February Engagement Party, Wedding
Celebration, Bachelor Party, Bridal Shower or
Rehearsal Dinner at the Blue Moose Bar & Grill
on Wanamaker Road and your toast is on us! Call
or e-mail Beth Inman, event coordinator, today!
913.322.2440 or binman@kchopps.com, Clients
must guarantee $250 before tax and gratuity
and book your wedding type event between February 1st and 28th to
receive one complimentary bottle of Prosecco the day of event. Must
mention offer when booking and be 21 years or older. Not valid with any
other offers, discounts or promotions.
CITY OF
CHARACTER
10
The 190th Air Refueling Wing at Forbes Field Air National Guard
Base is one of two bases in Kansas that have advanced to the second
round of candidate bases to host the country’s next-generation
refueling aircraft currently in production. The McConnell Air Force
Base in Wichita is the second Kansas location. Final selections will
be announced in spring 2014. “The selection of not just one, but both
Kansas Air Force bases is a testament to the critical role our state plays
in supporting our military and their partners as they carry out missions
overseas and at home,” Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., said in a news release.
“Strategically positioned in the heart of America, the location, capacity,
and mission of McConnell and Forbes make both bases exceptionally
equipped to provide air mobility globally at a moment’s notice.”
Although the 190th hasn’t been selected, just the fact that Topeka’s
refueling base has made it this far in the selection process is good news
for Forbes Field and the state, said Joe Blubaugh, wing executive officer
with the unit. “This doesn’t guarantee us the tankers coming to Kansas,
but it does allow us to showcase our current and future capacity,”
Blubaugh said. “It also helps with our long-term viability and relevancy
in today’s changing military environment.” In making the first round
of candidates, Topeka’s 190th Air Refueling Wing is in the running to
be the first Air National Guard base to receive the new aircraft. The
U.S. Air Force is planning to select three bases in its first round of KC-46
allocations — two active-duty bases and one Guard base.
Blassingame Home Care has assumed the ten members of the Seniors
Helping Seniors staff. Seniors Helping Seniors closed effective December
31, 2012. Bev Blassingame, owner of Blassingame Home Care, says she is
excited to continue serving the clients of Seniors Helping Seniors and
is thrilled to be able to preserve these ten positions with Blassingame
Home Care. For more information, call Bev Blassingame at 785.286.CARE
(2273).
Rasmussen College will host a “Sneak
Peak” for area Corporate Partners,
businesses, Chamber members and elected
officials Thursday, February 21 from 4:00
p.m. – 6:00 p.m. This exclusive event will
take place at their new Topeka Campus, 620 SW Governor View. Please
RSVP at 785.228.7320 or email Freida Bou at freida.bou@rasmussen.edu.
To find out more about Rasmussen College visit www.rasmussen.edu or
visit us for a personalized tour.
FORGIVENESS:
clearing the record of those who have wronged me and not holding a grudge.
Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce
MEMBERSHIP
NEWS
Please join the Chamber staff in welcoming these firms and organizations to Chamber membership and support them by buying from
your Chamber colleagues! The following members joined in December 2012 and were approved for membership at the January 2013
Board of Directors meeting.
Accident Fund Insurance Company of
America
Insurance
Theresa Ross
PO Box 40790
Lansing, MI 48901
517.281.9813
Sold by: Adrianne Evans, Chamber Staff
Jermey Hall - AFLAC
Insurance
Jeremy Hall
6136 SW 38th Street
Topeka, KS 66610
785.806.7691
Sold by: Dr. Julie Swift, Topeka Peridonitics /
Noreen Fenton, Chamber Staff
CenterPoint Energy Services, Inc.
Natural gas marketer
Scott Jurgensmeier
5531 SW 23rd Terrace
Topeka, KS 66614
785.501.3254
Sold by: Noreen Fenton, Chamber Staff
Legacy Chiropractic & Wellness, P.A.
Chiropractor
Charles Shively
2400 SW 29th Street, Suite 213
785.267.2400
Topeka, KS 66611
Sold by: Selena McNaul, Chamber Staff
Color Me Beautiful with Shakina
Cosmetics and color analysis
Shakina Lawton
2514 SE Monroe Street
Topeka, KS 66605
785.383.3877
Sold by: Noreen Fenton, Chamber Staff
Newman, Riffel & Hesse, P.A.
Law office
Billy Newman
1613 SW 37th Street
Topeka, KS 66611
785.267.0660
Sold by: Adrianne Evans, Chamber Staff
Intergrity Insurance Agency, Inc.
Independent insurance angency
Marshall Madill
2047 SW Topeka Boulevard
Topeka, KS 66612
785.233.5401
Sold by: Noreen Fenton, Chamber Staff
Orange Leaf Frozen Yogurt (SE)
Ice cream, yogurt, frozen deserts
Mark Kelly
2841 SE Croco Road, Suite 7
Topeka, KS 66605
785.806.4286
Sold by: Selena McNaul, Chamber Staff
February 2013
Paint Therapy Uncorked
Arts & entertainment
Margie Mudge
5130 SW 29th Street
Topeka, KS 66614
785.861.7299
Sold by: Phil Tysinger, Dynamic Computer
Solutions; Tysinger & Associates / Noreen
Fenton, Chamber Staff
Quinnox, Inc.
IT services
Prashant Vishnu
2056 Westlings Avenue, Suite 190
Naperville, IL 60563
630.388.1191
Sold by: Doug Kinsinger, Chamber Staff
Riddle’s Jewelry
Jewelry store
Marc Rose
1801 SW Wanamaker Road, Space D15
Topeka, KS 66604
785.215.8609
Sold by: Selena McNaul, Chamber Staf
Yaskawa Motoman Robotics
Manufacturing
Douglas Schenher
100 Automation Way
Miamisburg, OH 43442
Sold by: Adrianne Evans, Chamber Staff
11
Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce
120 SE Sixth Avenue, Suite 110
Topeka, Kansas 66603-3515
Periodical postage paid at Topeka, Kansas
Topeka Business
Topeka Business (USPS 576520)
is published monthly for
$10.00 per year for members
of the Greater Topeka Chamber
of Commerce, 120 SE Sixth Avenue,
Suite 110, Topeka, Kansas 66603-3515,
785.234.2644. Periodical postage is paid
at Topeka, Kansas.
POSTMASTER:
Send address changes to
Topeka Business
120 SE Sixth Avenue, Suite 110
Topeka, Kansas 66603-3515
Editor: Marsha Sheahan
CALENDAR
OF EVENTS
CBR: Chamber Board Room, 2nd floor ECR: Executive Conference Room, 1st floor
Febuary 2013
1 GO Topeka Board of Directors, 7:30 a.m.-9:00 a.m., CBR
1 Ambassadors, noon, CBR
6 Chamber Lunch Connect, 11:45 a.m.-1:00 p.m., Quinton’s Bar & Deli, 4121 SW Huntoon
7 Fast Forward Steering Committee, noon-1:00 p.m., CBR
8 Leadership Greater Topeka Session #1
11 Diplomats, noon, CBR
13 Power Breakfast Committee, 7:30 a.m.-8:30 a.m., ECR
15 Chamber Board of Directors, 7:30 a.m.-9:00 a.m., CBR
19 Federal Forum: Senator Jerry Moran, 7:30 a.m.-8:45 a.m., Capitol Plaza Emerald Ballroom,
1717 SW Topeka Boulevard
19 Business After Hours, 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m., Aboud’s Catering, 2127 SW Westport Drive
20 Fast Forward Insiders, 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m., Topeka High School, 800 SW Tenth Avenue
21 Fast Forward Ignite Educational Lunch, “Hot Topics”, Noon-1:00 p.m., Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library, 1515 SW Tenth Avenue
22 Leadership Greater Topeka Session #2
25 Diplomats, noon, CBR
26 City Council/Mayor Primary Election – VOTE
27 Fast Forward Inspire Series, 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m., Volunteer Dinner Service, Topeka Rescue Mission, 600 N Kansas Avenue
28 Fast Forward Networking Social, 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m., Wild Horse Saloon, 3249 SW Topeka Boulevard
28 Candidate School (for those running for City Council), Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library, Marvin Auditorium, 6:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. (registration required, call 785.580.4540)
HAVE YOU
NOTICED?
March 2013
1 GO Topeka Board of Directors, 7:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m., CBR
1 Ambassadors, noon, Exhibition Hall, Kansas Expocentre
7 Fast Forward Steering Committee, noon – 1:00 p.m., CBR
8 Leadership Greater Topeka Session #3
11 Diplomats, noon, CBR
13 Chamber Power Breakfast, 7:30 a.m.–8:30 a.m., Great Life Golf & Fitness at Shawnee Country Club, 913 SE 29th Street
15 Chamber Board of Directors, 7:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m., CBR
19 Business After Hours, 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., CoreFirst Bank & Trust, Location TBD
20Fast Forward Insiders, 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m., Kansas State Capitol Building,
900 SW Jackson Avenue
21Fast Forward Ignite Luncheon with Leaders, noon – 1:00 p.m.,
Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library, 1515 SW Tenth Avenue
22 Leadership Greater Topeka Session #4
25 Diplomats, noon, CBR
27Fast Forward Inspire Series, 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., Volunteer Dinner Service, Topeka
Rescue Mission, 600 N Kansas Avenue
28Fast Forward Networking Social, 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., Topeka Habitat for Humanity,
3249 SW Topeka Boulevard
You can now register for most Chamber events online.
Go to the Chamber’s Website,TopekaChamber.org, and
click on “Register Now!” It’s easy and quick!