The Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library has been recognized as a high-performing library in a time of need. This week, the library was given four out of five stars by Library Journal, by the oldest and most respected publication covering the library field.
Libraries across the nation are playing a key role in their communities in this current economic crisis, and your library is no exception. Libraries were judged on number of visits, circulation, program attendance and public Internet computer use.
“Each month since the economic downturn, we’ve broken circulation records. More customers are coming in looking for job search tips or looking for free entertainment. We’re happy to fulfill their need and be recognized as a library of distinction,” Paul Brennan, collections manager, said.
Each day more than 3,000 visitors walk through the doors of the library. The library has experienced a 19.3 percent increase in the number of people coming into the library this year compared to last. In 2008, we checked out 2,453,453 items. This year, checkout is up 7 percent.
The library provides free computer and Internet access and training. We offer about 500 computer-training classes each year. Our instructors say attendance at computer training programs has increased as the unemployment rate has increased.
258 libraries from across the United States earned a star ranking. To find out what other Kansas libraries were awarded stars, visit http://www.libraryjournal.com/article/CA6705870.html#KS.
Friday, November 20, 2009
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Heartland Visioning Inaugural Report, 2009
Today Heartland Visioning released its inaugural report. The report, which is promised every year, will provide a look at what has been accomplished in the year toward achieving the community-wide vision. The efforts put in by the dedicated vision partners and over 500 volunteers from around the community are what make the success of Heartland Visioning possible.
There are changes taking place in Shawnee County. In 2008, Shawnee County grew by 0.8% only 0.2% away from the 1% annual growth target.
The average earnings per job increased 1.6% in Shawnee County during the first quarter of 2009 versus a decline of 2.5% nationally. This is 3.35% over our benchmark target of being 0.75% over the national average for average job earnings.
Lastly, from 2006 to 2007, crime in Shawnee County declined by 12%, a greater decrease than the U.S. average. Additionally, crime in the City of Topeka has dropped 6.4% from 2007 to 2008.
These Key Benchmark results show that change is happening for the better. From here, the goal for Heartland Visioning is to keep these changes going in a positive direction. The Key Benchmarks are used as indicators, letting the Strategic Alliances and everyone know that what we are doing is working.
“There are a lot of wonderful things happening in our community,” said William Beteta, Executive Director, Heartland Visioning. “This was a learning year for all of us. One thing we learned was about all the great people and programs that exist and are working on things the community said it wants.”
In learning about existing programs, Heartland Visioning’s mission is to help like minded individuals and organizations build collaboration and make what they do even better for the community.
A copy of the report is available by contacting the Heartland Visioning office 785.231.6006, info@heartlandvisioning.com or go to the Website www.heartlandvisionoing.com.
Heartland Visioning is a community-wide initiative to develop and implement a shared strategic vision for what we want our community to be in 5, 10, or 20 years.
There are changes taking place in Shawnee County. In 2008, Shawnee County grew by 0.8% only 0.2% away from the 1% annual growth target.
The average earnings per job increased 1.6% in Shawnee County during the first quarter of 2009 versus a decline of 2.5% nationally. This is 3.35% over our benchmark target of being 0.75% over the national average for average job earnings.
Lastly, from 2006 to 2007, crime in Shawnee County declined by 12%, a greater decrease than the U.S. average. Additionally, crime in the City of Topeka has dropped 6.4% from 2007 to 2008.
These Key Benchmark results show that change is happening for the better. From here, the goal for Heartland Visioning is to keep these changes going in a positive direction. The Key Benchmarks are used as indicators, letting the Strategic Alliances and everyone know that what we are doing is working.
“There are a lot of wonderful things happening in our community,” said William Beteta, Executive Director, Heartland Visioning. “This was a learning year for all of us. One thing we learned was about all the great people and programs that exist and are working on things the community said it wants.”
In learning about existing programs, Heartland Visioning’s mission is to help like minded individuals and organizations build collaboration and make what they do even better for the community.
A copy of the report is available by contacting the Heartland Visioning office 785.231.6006, info@heartlandvisioning.com or go to the Website www.heartlandvisionoing.com.
Heartland Visioning is a community-wide initiative to develop and implement a shared strategic vision for what we want our community to be in 5, 10, or 20 years.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
AFP-Kansas prepares transportation policy primer for legislators, taxpayers
The Kansas chapter of the grassroots group Americans for Prosperity has prepared a ‘policy primer’ to help Kansans understand what Kansas spends on transportation in the state, and how our state compares with others in the region.
Derrick Sontag, AFP-Kansas state director, said Kansas has had a comprehensive highway or transportation plan for twenty years now.
“There are many in Topeka who believe that the simple act of building new roads and highways spurs economic growth, but the numbers suggest otherwise,” he said. “For example, between 2002 and 2006 Kansas ranked eighth in the country in highway spending per capita, yet our Gross State Product growth lagged at 33rd.”
Sontag said that generally speaking, economic research studies have not found that increased spending and building more roads will lead to a larger economy and to more private capital in a given state.
“Kansas’ rankings in highway spending and GSP growth, as well as other economic measurements, suggest there is no direct correlation between increased government spending on highways and economic growth,” he said.
Sontag also noted that the state’s annual population growth has averaged less than a half percent.
“With lagging Gross State Product and population growth, one has to wonder just what economic measurements the proponents of implementing a new highway plan cite in making their claims that simply building new roads will lead to an economic recovery in Kansas,” he said. “Reducing the tax burden and government spending will best assist the private sector, not increasing our tax and debt burden.”
Sontag said it would be irresponsible for the Legislature to do anything further than authorize an appropriate maintenance plan during the upcoming legislative session.
“Kansas’ roads and highways are in great conditions, and AFP-Kansas supports the implementation of a responsible maintenance program,” he said. “However, with the state facing a $500 million shortfall and Kansans already facing an uncompetitive tax and debt burden the last thing the Legislature should do is embark on a massive tax and debt plan that further places Kansas families and businesses in a financial bind.”
The AFP transportation policy primer outlines the state funding for highway plans, which has traditionally involved taxes and debt. It also compares the Kansas tax rates to those of neighboring states.
Derrick Sontag, AFP-Kansas state director, said Kansas has had a comprehensive highway or transportation plan for twenty years now.
“There are many in Topeka who believe that the simple act of building new roads and highways spurs economic growth, but the numbers suggest otherwise,” he said. “For example, between 2002 and 2006 Kansas ranked eighth in the country in highway spending per capita, yet our Gross State Product growth lagged at 33rd.”
Sontag said that generally speaking, economic research studies have not found that increased spending and building more roads will lead to a larger economy and to more private capital in a given state.
“Kansas’ rankings in highway spending and GSP growth, as well as other economic measurements, suggest there is no direct correlation between increased government spending on highways and economic growth,” he said.
Sontag also noted that the state’s annual population growth has averaged less than a half percent.
“With lagging Gross State Product and population growth, one has to wonder just what economic measurements the proponents of implementing a new highway plan cite in making their claims that simply building new roads will lead to an economic recovery in Kansas,” he said. “Reducing the tax burden and government spending will best assist the private sector, not increasing our tax and debt burden.”
Sontag said it would be irresponsible for the Legislature to do anything further than authorize an appropriate maintenance plan during the upcoming legislative session.
“Kansas’ roads and highways are in great conditions, and AFP-Kansas supports the implementation of a responsible maintenance program,” he said. “However, with the state facing a $500 million shortfall and Kansans already facing an uncompetitive tax and debt burden the last thing the Legislature should do is embark on a massive tax and debt plan that further places Kansas families and businesses in a financial bind.”
The AFP transportation policy primer outlines the state funding for highway plans, which has traditionally involved taxes and debt. It also compares the Kansas tax rates to those of neighboring states.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
St. Francis Health Center named on Top 100 Hospital: Best in Value Hospitals™ list
St. Francis Health Center was recently named by Data Advantage LLC as a Top 100 Hospital: Best in Value Hospitals™ list from the 2009‐2010 Hospital Value Index™, the first and only national study on U.S. hospitals and the value of care they provide.
The hospitals in the Top 100 list represent nearly every state in the U.S. St. Francis was the only hospital in Kansas that was named to the list.
“These are the hospitals that set the bar for the nation when it comes to value. If every hospital performed at the level of the Top 100, we found that more than $60 billion per year could be saved,” said Hal Andrews, chief executive officer of Data Advantage.
“We are honored that St. Francis has been recognized for its stewardship in delivering value to patients,” said Grant Wicklund, interim president and chief executive officer of St. Francis. “We appreciate the efforts of our physicians and staff and the work they do to provide care that is both high-quality and cost-effective and acknowledged as such by national consumer health organizations.”
“The Hospital Value Index™ winners are a geographically diverse group of hospitals that have a proven ability to deliver high value care to their communities and represent a model of care that other U.S. hospitals should look to,” Andrews said. “As legislators consider health reform, we believe that it will be increasingly important to recognize and reward those hospitals that deliver outstanding value.”
These results are part of the findings from the 2009‐2010 Hospital Value Index™ study, an analysis of the value of care provided at more than 4,500 U.S. hospitals.
The hospitals in the Top 100 list represent nearly every state in the U.S. St. Francis was the only hospital in Kansas that was named to the list.
“These are the hospitals that set the bar for the nation when it comes to value. If every hospital performed at the level of the Top 100, we found that more than $60 billion per year could be saved,” said Hal Andrews, chief executive officer of Data Advantage.
“We are honored that St. Francis has been recognized for its stewardship in delivering value to patients,” said Grant Wicklund, interim president and chief executive officer of St. Francis. “We appreciate the efforts of our physicians and staff and the work they do to provide care that is both high-quality and cost-effective and acknowledged as such by national consumer health organizations.”
“The Hospital Value Index™ winners are a geographically diverse group of hospitals that have a proven ability to deliver high value care to their communities and represent a model of care that other U.S. hospitals should look to,” Andrews said. “As legislators consider health reform, we believe that it will be increasingly important to recognize and reward those hospitals that deliver outstanding value.”
These results are part of the findings from the 2009‐2010 Hospital Value Index™ study, an analysis of the value of care provided at more than 4,500 U.S. hospitals.
New Residence Providing Assisted Living and Memory Care Services Planned For Topeka, Kansas
Legend Senior Living today announced plans to construct a free standing assisted living and memory care residence in Topeka, Kansas. Legend at Capital Ridge Assisted Living and Reflections Memory Care will be located at 1931 SW Arvonia Place and consists of 51 private apartments for Assisted Living and 15 private suites dedicated for Memory Care.
Legend at Capital Ridge will provide daily assistance to older adults who can no longer live alone, but don’t require the advanced level of skilled medical care provided by a nursing home. The care model emphasizes a homelike residential design and programming developed to help older adults maintain a rich quality of life.
Reflections Memory Care Residence at Legend combines beautiful private suites with state of the art life enrichment programs and trained staff to meet the needs of individuals with memory impairments such as Alzheimer’s Disease and other dementias.
WDM Architects, Wichita KS, designed the residence. The Law Company, Inc., Wichita KS is the general contractor and Roger Mullanax (316-268-0200) is the project manager. Construction is scheduled to start immediately. The Legend at Capital Ridge is planned for completion in late 2010.
Legend Senior Living is a privately held company founded in 2001 by Timothy Buchanan and is dedicated to providing quality services and housing to senior adults. Legend Senior Living owns and operates Independent Living and Assisted Living Residence in Kansas, Oklahoma, and Florida.
Legend at Capital Ridge will provide daily assistance to older adults who can no longer live alone, but don’t require the advanced level of skilled medical care provided by a nursing home. The care model emphasizes a homelike residential design and programming developed to help older adults maintain a rich quality of life.
Reflections Memory Care Residence at Legend combines beautiful private suites with state of the art life enrichment programs and trained staff to meet the needs of individuals with memory impairments such as Alzheimer’s Disease and other dementias.
WDM Architects, Wichita KS, designed the residence. The Law Company, Inc., Wichita KS is the general contractor and Roger Mullanax (316-268-0200) is the project manager. Construction is scheduled to start immediately. The Legend at Capital Ridge is planned for completion in late 2010.
Legend Senior Living is a privately held company founded in 2001 by Timothy Buchanan and is dedicated to providing quality services and housing to senior adults. Legend Senior Living owns and operates Independent Living and Assisted Living Residence in Kansas, Oklahoma, and Florida.
Monday, November 09, 2009
TIBA ANNUAL MEETING TO HONOR TOPEKA INDEPENDENT BUSINESSES
The Topeka Independent Business Association will hold its annual meeting on Tuesday, November 10, 2009 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM at The Shawnee Country Club, 913 SE 29th Street in Topeka. The annual meeting will include the installation of the new TIBA board members, and the presentation of the Top TIBA Businesses of 2008 in three categories and the Ron Stryker Key Member Award.
Those being honored as the Top TIBA Business of 2009 include E2 Communications in the 1-5 employees category; Kendall Construction, Inc. in the 6-50 employees category; and St. Francis Health Center in the 50 + employees category. The awards are based on business growth, community involvement, activities which enhance the small-business climate in Topeka, active involvement in TIBA, and leadership in the community.
“The TIBA Annual Meeting is our opportunity to celebrate independently-owned businesses and business owners in Topeka,” said Tara Dimick, TIBA chair.
The Ron Stryker Key Member Award will be presented to the key member of TIBA in 2009 and is chosen annually by the TIBA chairperson. The award was created to honor Ron Stryker who passed away in May of 2008. Ron was an advocate for independent business and a founding board member of the Topeka Independent Business Association. He started his career as an entrepreneur in the heating and air conditioning industry and acquired twelve related businesses. The winner of the Ron Stryker Key Member Award will be announced at the TIBA Annual Meeting on November 10, 2009.
Seating is limited and reservations are required. To make a reservation, email tiba@topekaiba.org or contact Sharon DuBois at (785) 783-2897.
The Topeka Independent Business Association (TIBA) is the voice for independent businesses in Topeka and Shawnee County. TIBA members are locally-owned businesses that want our community to grow and prosper; and have their voice heard on taxes, health insurance, and local and state issues.
TOP TIBA BUSINESSES
E2 Communications is owned by Tara Dimick. E2 a full service strategic planning company focused on effective and efficient communications in marketing, advertising, public relations, proposal and grant writing, board facilitation, and company and organizational training.
Kendall Construction, Inc. was started in 1994 by Richard and Sheri Kendall. Kendall Construction provides general, renovation, specialty and design-build construction. Their mission is to establish and maintain positive customer relationships by meeting and exceeding customer expectations in regard to quality craftsmanship, safety, budget and deadlines.
St. Francis Health Center has 378 licensed beds, a medical staff representing nearly all specialties, adult and youth volunteers and a thriving auxiliary. Skillfully integrating unparalleled technology in an environment steeped in Christian values and compassionate care, St. Francis and its employees have fostered a premier regional hospital featuring the newest medical innovations and state-of-the-art equipment.
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Those being honored as the Top TIBA Business of 2009 include E2 Communications in the 1-5 employees category; Kendall Construction, Inc. in the 6-50 employees category; and St. Francis Health Center in the 50 + employees category. The awards are based on business growth, community involvement, activities which enhance the small-business climate in Topeka, active involvement in TIBA, and leadership in the community.
“The TIBA Annual Meeting is our opportunity to celebrate independently-owned businesses and business owners in Topeka,” said Tara Dimick, TIBA chair.
The Ron Stryker Key Member Award will be presented to the key member of TIBA in 2009 and is chosen annually by the TIBA chairperson. The award was created to honor Ron Stryker who passed away in May of 2008. Ron was an advocate for independent business and a founding board member of the Topeka Independent Business Association. He started his career as an entrepreneur in the heating and air conditioning industry and acquired twelve related businesses. The winner of the Ron Stryker Key Member Award will be announced at the TIBA Annual Meeting on November 10, 2009.
Seating is limited and reservations are required. To make a reservation, email tiba@topekaiba.org or contact Sharon DuBois at (785) 783-2897.
The Topeka Independent Business Association (TIBA) is the voice for independent businesses in Topeka and Shawnee County. TIBA members are locally-owned businesses that want our community to grow and prosper; and have their voice heard on taxes, health insurance, and local and state issues.
TOP TIBA BUSINESSES
E2 Communications is owned by Tara Dimick. E2 a full service strategic planning company focused on effective and efficient communications in marketing, advertising, public relations, proposal and grant writing, board facilitation, and company and organizational training.
Kendall Construction, Inc. was started in 1994 by Richard and Sheri Kendall. Kendall Construction provides general, renovation, specialty and design-build construction. Their mission is to establish and maintain positive customer relationships by meeting and exceeding customer expectations in regard to quality craftsmanship, safety, budget and deadlines.
St. Francis Health Center has 378 licensed beds, a medical staff representing nearly all specialties, adult and youth volunteers and a thriving auxiliary. Skillfully integrating unparalleled technology in an environment steeped in Christian values and compassionate care, St. Francis and its employees have fostered a premier regional hospital featuring the newest medical innovations and state-of-the-art equipment.
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Thursday, November 05, 2009
Washburn University student a contender for prestigious scholarship
Washburn University senior Garrett Love, of Montezuma, was recently nominated by the university to compete for the prestigious Rhodes Scholar Award.
“Garrett has excelled in the academic and extracurricular arenas and has distinguished himself as a leader,” said Robin Bowen, vice president of academic affairs. “He is a positive role model for other students and is very deserving of the nomination.”
Currently president of the Washburn Student Government Association, Love is, according to university archives, the first Washburn student to be nominated for the award in more than 100 years. In 1904, the first year nominations were accepted for the Rhodes, Washburn senior Frank Mohler was selected and completed his studies the next year at Oxford University. Merrill Templeton, a 1909 graduate, was selected for the honor, but became ill and had to withdraw before he began coursework in England in 1910. In 1910, Philip Whitcomb became the third Washburn student named a Rhodes Scholar. He began at Oxford in 1911.
Prior to being elected president of Washburn Student Government Association, Love served for two years as a senator. He currently is a member of the Kansas Board of Regents Student Advisory Council, a student representative of the Washburn Budget Reduction Task Force and the Washburn Strategic Planning Committee and is a member of the Topeka Heartland Visioning Steering Committee.
Love holds a 4.0 grade point average and is majoring in economics, management and finance. He was a member of the Washburn men’s basketball team for three years and was twice named Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association Presidential Scholar. His honors include membership in Phi Kappa Phi, Beta Gamma Sigma, Mortar Board and Sagamore honor societies and participation in the Washburn Leadership Institute.
A Rhodes Scholarship provides the opportunity to study at Oxford University for two years, with all tuition fees paid and a living allowance provided. American Rhodes Scholars are selected from all over the nation to pursue a course of study of their own choosing at Oxford; students may work toward a master's degree or a second bachelor's degree. If named to the program, Love plans to research methods through which theories of justice and freedom of choice can be incorporated into the analysis of optimal taxation.
Established in 1902 through the will of English-born businessman and politician Cecil John Rhodes, the Rhodes Scholar Award is the oldest fellowship program in the world and is bestowed to only 90 students each year. A nominee must possess a high standard of intellectual and academic achievement, exhibit integrity of character, display interest in and respect for fellow beings and display the ability and desire to lead. Applicants must also demonstrate physical vigor that will enable them to make an effective contribution to the world around them, which can be achieved through participation and success in athletics.
“Garrett has excelled in the academic and extracurricular arenas and has distinguished himself as a leader,” said Robin Bowen, vice president of academic affairs. “He is a positive role model for other students and is very deserving of the nomination.”
Currently president of the Washburn Student Government Association, Love is, according to university archives, the first Washburn student to be nominated for the award in more than 100 years. In 1904, the first year nominations were accepted for the Rhodes, Washburn senior Frank Mohler was selected and completed his studies the next year at Oxford University. Merrill Templeton, a 1909 graduate, was selected for the honor, but became ill and had to withdraw before he began coursework in England in 1910. In 1910, Philip Whitcomb became the third Washburn student named a Rhodes Scholar. He began at Oxford in 1911.
Prior to being elected president of Washburn Student Government Association, Love served for two years as a senator. He currently is a member of the Kansas Board of Regents Student Advisory Council, a student representative of the Washburn Budget Reduction Task Force and the Washburn Strategic Planning Committee and is a member of the Topeka Heartland Visioning Steering Committee.
Love holds a 4.0 grade point average and is majoring in economics, management and finance. He was a member of the Washburn men’s basketball team for three years and was twice named Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association Presidential Scholar. His honors include membership in Phi Kappa Phi, Beta Gamma Sigma, Mortar Board and Sagamore honor societies and participation in the Washburn Leadership Institute.
A Rhodes Scholarship provides the opportunity to study at Oxford University for two years, with all tuition fees paid and a living allowance provided. American Rhodes Scholars are selected from all over the nation to pursue a course of study of their own choosing at Oxford; students may work toward a master's degree or a second bachelor's degree. If named to the program, Love plans to research methods through which theories of justice and freedom of choice can be incorporated into the analysis of optimal taxation.
Established in 1902 through the will of English-born businessman and politician Cecil John Rhodes, the Rhodes Scholar Award is the oldest fellowship program in the world and is bestowed to only 90 students each year. A nominee must possess a high standard of intellectual and academic achievement, exhibit integrity of character, display interest in and respect for fellow beings and display the ability and desire to lead. Applicants must also demonstrate physical vigor that will enable them to make an effective contribution to the world around them, which can be achieved through participation and success in athletics.
St. Francis Physician Receives National Award
A national organization has recognized James J. Hamilton Jr., MD, FACS, a St. Francis physician, for his work in cancer care in 2008 by awarding him the State Chair Outstanding Performance Award in October, becoming just one of three physicians to receive the honor nationwide.
The Commission on Cancer, an affiliate of the American College of Surgeons, gives the honor, which recognizes individuals who provide extensive leadership and support to their physician volunteers and cancer programs in the state. They are collaborators, innovators, and experts working with cancer programs, professionals and state coalitions to improve the quality of cancer care.
The award is bestowed on individuals who exhibit excellence in the following areas:
Consistent and innovative communication methods used for maintaining relationships with the cancer liaison physicians
Support and initiation of Commission on Cancer activities at the state and regional Level
Collaboration with American College of Surgeons Chapter, American Cancer Society and Comprehensive Cancer Control Coalitions
Established by the American College of Surgeons in 1922, the Commission on Cancer is a national consortium of professional organizations dedicated to improving survival and quality of life for cancer patients through standard-setting, prevention, research, education and the monitoring of comprehensive quality care. Its members include 96 individuals who are either surgeons representing the American College of Surgeons or representatives from 46 national, professional organizations or Commission member organizations. These individuals direct the activities of the Commission through committee work.
Hamilton is chairman of the St. Francis Comprehensive Cancer Committee. He is board certified in general surgery and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He is employed at Tallgrass General, Vascular, Thoracic and Bariatric Surgery. He received his medical degree from the University of Kansas School of Medicine and completed his surgical residency at Harvard Medical School.
The Commission on Cancer, an affiliate of the American College of Surgeons, gives the honor, which recognizes individuals who provide extensive leadership and support to their physician volunteers and cancer programs in the state. They are collaborators, innovators, and experts working with cancer programs, professionals and state coalitions to improve the quality of cancer care.
The award is bestowed on individuals who exhibit excellence in the following areas:
Consistent and innovative communication methods used for maintaining relationships with the cancer liaison physicians
Support and initiation of Commission on Cancer activities at the state and regional Level
Collaboration with American College of Surgeons Chapter, American Cancer Society and Comprehensive Cancer Control Coalitions
Established by the American College of Surgeons in 1922, the Commission on Cancer is a national consortium of professional organizations dedicated to improving survival and quality of life for cancer patients through standard-setting, prevention, research, education and the monitoring of comprehensive quality care. Its members include 96 individuals who are either surgeons representing the American College of Surgeons or representatives from 46 national, professional organizations or Commission member organizations. These individuals direct the activities of the Commission through committee work.
Hamilton is chairman of the St. Francis Comprehensive Cancer Committee. He is board certified in general surgery and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He is employed at Tallgrass General, Vascular, Thoracic and Bariatric Surgery. He received his medical degree from the University of Kansas School of Medicine and completed his surgical residency at Harvard Medical School.
Wednesday, November 04, 2009
Sunflower Showdown Benefits Topeka Rescue Mission
Tomorrow night a very reliable indicator of the outcome of the “Sunflower Showdown” will be revealed. Clients of Wells Fargo Advisors will be bringing food items and other contributions to score points to show their loyalty for their favorite team—including KU, K-State, Washburn and Emporia State. In the past 5 years, the team with the most donations has also been the winner of the Sunflower Showdown between KU and K-State!
This year’s beneficiary is the Topeka Rescue Mission. As a warm up to the KU/K-State game on Saturday, Wells Fargo will be hosting a fun-filled event at the Great Overland Station between 4:30 pm and 7:00 pm on November 4th. Clients of Wells Fargo will be greeted with much fanfare as they are enthusiastically cheered to see which team can bring in the most food pantry item donations and monetary contributions for the Topeka Rescue Mission, a non-profit agency dedicated to providing services to individuals and families in need or in crisis. The team that has the most points (for items and donations) at the end of the evening will have all contributions for the Rescue Mission made in on behalf of either KU, K-State, Emporia State or Washburn’s name.
For every food pantry item donated, the team will receive one point towards their score. Making a monetary donation scores a touchdown for 6 points. The team with the highest number of points will represent who has the best school and Rescue Mission spirit.
“We are proud members of the Topeka Community and are looking forward to the “Are you Ready for Some Football” challenge. We hope this will really help the Topeka Rescue Mission and the families they assist and that this event will be a fun and exciting way to kick off the pre-game rivalry”, says Neta Jeffus, Branch Manager of the Topeka Wells Fargo Advisors office. “We are looking forward to getting the teams rallied around the Topeka Rescue Mission”.
“We are excited about this event”, states Barry Feaker, Executive Director of the Topeka Rescue Mission. “Many families are in need right here in Topeka and this is a great way to show support of the Topeka Rescue Mission, the community, as well as team spirit”.
The event is expected to have well over 150 in attendance.
This year’s beneficiary is the Topeka Rescue Mission. As a warm up to the KU/K-State game on Saturday, Wells Fargo will be hosting a fun-filled event at the Great Overland Station between 4:30 pm and 7:00 pm on November 4th. Clients of Wells Fargo will be greeted with much fanfare as they are enthusiastically cheered to see which team can bring in the most food pantry item donations and monetary contributions for the Topeka Rescue Mission, a non-profit agency dedicated to providing services to individuals and families in need or in crisis. The team that has the most points (for items and donations) at the end of the evening will have all contributions for the Rescue Mission made in on behalf of either KU, K-State, Emporia State or Washburn’s name.
For every food pantry item donated, the team will receive one point towards their score. Making a monetary donation scores a touchdown for 6 points. The team with the highest number of points will represent who has the best school and Rescue Mission spirit.
“We are proud members of the Topeka Community and are looking forward to the “Are you Ready for Some Football” challenge. We hope this will really help the Topeka Rescue Mission and the families they assist and that this event will be a fun and exciting way to kick off the pre-game rivalry”, says Neta Jeffus, Branch Manager of the Topeka Wells Fargo Advisors office. “We are looking forward to getting the teams rallied around the Topeka Rescue Mission”.
“We are excited about this event”, states Barry Feaker, Executive Director of the Topeka Rescue Mission. “Many families are in need right here in Topeka and this is a great way to show support of the Topeka Rescue Mission, the community, as well as team spirit”.
The event is expected to have well over 150 in attendance.
Local Pharmacy Achieves Health Care Quality Accreditation; Pharmacist Receives National Award
Topeka: An engraved plaque pledging to “Never Stop Improving” hangs in the owner’s office. Clearly it sums up Michael K. Conlin’s philosophy about his work, his patients and his business—Jayhawk Pharmacy and Patient Supply. There’s no question that his commitment to quality improvement has been instrumental in helping him achieve recent recognition of national significance and local notoriety.
For more than 20 years, Conlin, R.Ph., F.A.C.A., F.I.A.C.P., has been delivering personalized cu stomer service from behind the counter of Jayhawk Pharmacy. As a boy he sat in the original store and watched Pharmacist Bob Drumm deliver prescriptions to the folks in the Brookwood neighborhood. After graduating from the University of Kansas School of Pharmacy in 1978, Conlin returned to the community to work and later buy the Topeka company.
Jayhawk Pharmacy took the spotlight this summer in achieving the Award of Accreditation from the Health Care Quality Association. This recognition means the pharmacy successfully completed a yearlong process documenting their high level of consistent patient care. Beginning September 30, 2009, suppliers of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics and supplies (DMEPOS) must be accredited to continue to serve and bill Medicare Part B patients. The accreditation process included a three-day site visit during which credentialing staff held in-depth interviews with patients and medical providers regarding the quality of care provided by Jayhawk Pharmacy and Patient Supply.
The purpose of national accreditation is to ensure the highest quality of patient care is provided as well as state of the art medical and oxygen equipment to address all aspects of patient home care. In order to retain Medicare billing privileges, all DMEPOS suppliers must comply with the Medicare program's supplier standards and quality standards to become accredited. Nationally, the accreditation requirement applies to suppliers of durable medical equipment, medical supplies, home dialysis supplies and equipment, therapeutic shoes, parenteral/enteral nutrition, transfusion medicine and prosthetic devices, and prosthetics and orthotics.
“At Jayhawk Pharmacy, our commitment has always been to our patients. We compete with mass merchandising, by doing what’s best for our individual patients,” Conlin said. “I saw the “never stop improving” phrase in a manufacturing plant in China. It stuck with me. I am dedicated to improving our business, our community. This national accreditation is improving service to our patients.”
The accreditation is only one of two national awards garnered by Jayhawk Pharmacy and Patient Supply and Conlin.
Last year, specialized credentials and outstanding customer service earned Conlin
The National Award for Innovative Pharmacy Practice in 2008 presented by the Kansas Pharmacist Association on behalf of the National Alliance of State Pharmacy Associations. The award is made to an association member who consistently demonstrates innovative pharmacy practices resulting in improved patient care.
Conlin’s nomination by pharmacists from throughout the state of Kansas noted his efforts in improving, broadening and diversifying the services that are provided by all Kansas community pharmacies providing individualized patient care. In addition to owning and operating Jayhawk Pharmacy, Conlin has been instrumental in providing durable medical equipment training to his community pharmacy colleagues throughout the Midwest. He also is nationally recognized as a Certified Menopause Educator by the North American Menopause Society and provides individualized patient hormone consultation to menopausal women throughout the Midwest.
Conlin is a Fellow of the American College of Apothecaries (F.A.C.A.) as well as a Fellow of the International Academy of Compounding Pharmacists (F.IA.C.P.).
Jayhawk Pharmacy and Patient Supply has three locations in Topeka: 2860 SW Mission Woods—Clinical Pharmacy and Patient Supply; 6730 SW 29th—Custom Prescription Compounding; and 2620 SW 6th-- Medical Equipment and Patient Supplies.
For more than 20 years, Conlin, R.Ph., F.A.C.A., F.I.A.C.P., has been delivering personalized cu stomer service from behind the counter of Jayhawk Pharmacy. As a boy he sat in the original store and watched Pharmacist Bob Drumm deliver prescriptions to the folks in the Brookwood neighborhood. After graduating from the University of Kansas School of Pharmacy in 1978, Conlin returned to the community to work and later buy the Topeka company.
Jayhawk Pharmacy took the spotlight this summer in achieving the Award of Accreditation from the Health Care Quality Association. This recognition means the pharmacy successfully completed a yearlong process documenting their high level of consistent patient care. Beginning September 30, 2009, suppliers of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics and supplies (DMEPOS) must be accredited to continue to serve and bill Medicare Part B patients. The accreditation process included a three-day site visit during which credentialing staff held in-depth interviews with patients and medical providers regarding the quality of care provided by Jayhawk Pharmacy and Patient Supply.
The purpose of national accreditation is to ensure the highest quality of patient care is provided as well as state of the art medical and oxygen equipment to address all aspects of patient home care. In order to retain Medicare billing privileges, all DMEPOS suppliers must comply with the Medicare program's supplier standards and quality standards to become accredited. Nationally, the accreditation requirement applies to suppliers of durable medical equipment, medical supplies, home dialysis supplies and equipment, therapeutic shoes, parenteral/enteral nutrition, transfusion medicine and prosthetic devices, and prosthetics and orthotics.
“At Jayhawk Pharmacy, our commitment has always been to our patients. We compete with mass merchandising, by doing what’s best for our individual patients,” Conlin said. “I saw the “never stop improving” phrase in a manufacturing plant in China. It stuck with me. I am dedicated to improving our business, our community. This national accreditation is improving service to our patients.”
The accreditation is only one of two national awards garnered by Jayhawk Pharmacy and Patient Supply and Conlin.
Last year, specialized credentials and outstanding customer service earned Conlin
The National Award for Innovative Pharmacy Practice in 2008 presented by the Kansas Pharmacist Association on behalf of the National Alliance of State Pharmacy Associations. The award is made to an association member who consistently demonstrates innovative pharmacy practices resulting in improved patient care.
Conlin’s nomination by pharmacists from throughout the state of Kansas noted his efforts in improving, broadening and diversifying the services that are provided by all Kansas community pharmacies providing individualized patient care. In addition to owning and operating Jayhawk Pharmacy, Conlin has been instrumental in providing durable medical equipment training to his community pharmacy colleagues throughout the Midwest. He also is nationally recognized as a Certified Menopause Educator by the North American Menopause Society and provides individualized patient hormone consultation to menopausal women throughout the Midwest.
Conlin is a Fellow of the American College of Apothecaries (F.A.C.A.) as well as a Fellow of the International Academy of Compounding Pharmacists (F.IA.C.P.).
Jayhawk Pharmacy and Patient Supply has three locations in Topeka: 2860 SW Mission Woods—Clinical Pharmacy and Patient Supply; 6730 SW 29th—Custom Prescription Compounding; and 2620 SW 6th-- Medical Equipment and Patient Supplies.
3nd Annual Westboro Plaza Glow Shines Brighter Than Ever
Tomorrow night, there will be hundreds of glittering new lights winking in the Topeka sky. On Thursday, November 5, the Westboro Plaza will hold its third annual Westboro Plaza Glow, ushering in the holiday season.
Once again, the Westboro Mart will be the most festive spot in Topeka—filled with the sights, sounds and tastes of the holidays. Hear the Topeka High Jazz Band play holiday music amidst the twinkling lights, along with activities galore:
6:30 pm—activities begin
Glass blowing demonstrations at the Haute Shop
Surprise fun from Gizmo Pictures
Santa photos at Centerpiece Photography
Food vendors will be selling delicious treats
7:00 pm—lighting ceremony
The switch is thrown and hundreds of lights come ablaze
Merchants and galleries will be open until 9 pm to entertain customers and friends with prize drawings and treats of their own.
“The Plaza Glow is growing into the kickoff for Topeka’s holiday season,” said Pat Gideon of Sliver Lake Bank, and co-owner of The Westboro Mart. “We have a wonderful neighborhood and thriving arts culture here. Of course the night after the Plaza Glow is First Friday, so there’s much to see and do. We invite the whole community to join us.”
Porterfield’s Flowers is a business that’s been in the Westboro Mart since 1981. Owner David Porterfield also loves helping make the historic district shine even at holiday time. “The area is full of history—and was the first shopping center in the city. It just makes sense that we welcome the season right here in the Westboro Mart,” he said.
The Plaza Glow is the brainchild of Frank Johnson, DDS, whose office is on the northeast corner of Huntoon & Oakley. His early vision has caught on in the neighborhood and Plaza Glow is quickly becoming a Topeka tradition. The event is open to the public, with many free activities for all ages.
Once again, the Westboro Mart will be the most festive spot in Topeka—filled with the sights, sounds and tastes of the holidays. Hear the Topeka High Jazz Band play holiday music amidst the twinkling lights, along with activities galore:
6:30 pm—activities begin
Glass blowing demonstrations at the Haute Shop
Surprise fun from Gizmo Pictures
Santa photos at Centerpiece Photography
Food vendors will be selling delicious treats
7:00 pm—lighting ceremony
The switch is thrown and hundreds of lights come ablaze
Merchants and galleries will be open until 9 pm to entertain customers and friends with prize drawings and treats of their own.
“The Plaza Glow is growing into the kickoff for Topeka’s holiday season,” said Pat Gideon of Sliver Lake Bank, and co-owner of The Westboro Mart. “We have a wonderful neighborhood and thriving arts culture here. Of course the night after the Plaza Glow is First Friday, so there’s much to see and do. We invite the whole community to join us.”
Porterfield’s Flowers is a business that’s been in the Westboro Mart since 1981. Owner David Porterfield also loves helping make the historic district shine even at holiday time. “The area is full of history—and was the first shopping center in the city. It just makes sense that we welcome the season right here in the Westboro Mart,” he said.
The Plaza Glow is the brainchild of Frank Johnson, DDS, whose office is on the northeast corner of Huntoon & Oakley. His early vision has caught on in the neighborhood and Plaza Glow is quickly becoming a Topeka tradition. The event is open to the public, with many free activities for all ages.
Heartland Visioning Announces Dates to Report Back to Community
As promised Heartland Visioning is reporting back to the community regarding what has occurred over the past year. You can join Heartland Visioning from 11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m., Wednesday, November 18, 2009, in Washburn Room A in the Student Union at Washburn University or from 5:30 p.m. - 7:30p.m., Wednesday, December 2, 2009, in the Rotunda of the Topeka and Shawnee County Library.
Heartland Visioning is a community-wide initiative to develop and implement a shared strategic vision for what we want our community to be in 5, 10, 20 years. Our community is defined as Shawnee County which includes: Auburn, Rossville, Topeka, Silver Lake, Willard, and unincorporated Shawnee County.
It has almost been one year since the release of the Heartland Visioning Strategic Plan. Implementation began immediately and the Foundation Teams and Vision Partners have been working diligently to make the vision a reality.
Heartland Visioning will discuss the accomplishments of the past year and the community will have the opportunity to interact with Vision Partners and Foundation Team members from each of the six Foundations: Education, Quality of Life, Infrastructure, Economic Development, Private Sector Leadership and Government. The community will have the opportunity to ask questions regarding strategies that are being worked on and the priorities that each Foundation Team has set for the future. In addition, the community will have the chance to provide Heartland Visioning with feedback.
We hope that you can join us to learn more about the exciting things that are taking place in Topeka and Shawnee County.
Heartland Visioning is a community-wide initiative to develop and implement a shared strategic vision for what we want our community to be in 5, 10, 20 years. Our community is defined as Shawnee County which includes: Auburn, Rossville, Topeka, Silver Lake, Willard, and unincorporated Shawnee County.
It has almost been one year since the release of the Heartland Visioning Strategic Plan. Implementation began immediately and the Foundation Teams and Vision Partners have been working diligently to make the vision a reality.
Heartland Visioning will discuss the accomplishments of the past year and the community will have the opportunity to interact with Vision Partners and Foundation Team members from each of the six Foundations: Education, Quality of Life, Infrastructure, Economic Development, Private Sector Leadership and Government. The community will have the opportunity to ask questions regarding strategies that are being worked on and the priorities that each Foundation Team has set for the future. In addition, the community will have the chance to provide Heartland Visioning with feedback.
We hope that you can join us to learn more about the exciting things that are taking place in Topeka and Shawnee County.
Monday, November 02, 2009
MIRACLE ON KANSAS AVENUE COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS TREE CUTTING
The Community Christmas Tree has been chosen! After much deliberation, the Westar Energy Women's Association in conjunction with the Miracle on Kansas Avenue Committee has chosen a tree.
The 2009 Christmas Tree is currently located in rural Shawnee County and belongs to Ms. Jean Riley. A crew from Westar will be cutting it down on Wednesday, November 4, 2009 between 9:00 and 10:00 am.
The tree will then find its downtown home at the Westar Energy building at 818 S. Kansas Avenue. The tree will, again, be decorated by the Westar Energy Women's Association beginning Sunday, November 8, 2009 and the official tree lighting ceremony will be held at 5:30 pm on November 28, 2009. The Miracle on Kansas Avenue Christmas parade will kick off shortly thereafter, at 6:00 pm.
The 2009 Christmas Tree is currently located in rural Shawnee County and belongs to Ms. Jean Riley. A crew from Westar will be cutting it down on Wednesday, November 4, 2009 between 9:00 and 10:00 am.
The tree will then find its downtown home at the Westar Energy building at 818 S. Kansas Avenue. The tree will, again, be decorated by the Westar Energy Women's Association beginning Sunday, November 8, 2009 and the official tree lighting ceremony will be held at 5:30 pm on November 28, 2009. The Miracle on Kansas Avenue Christmas parade will kick off shortly thereafter, at 6:00 pm.
Topeka Home Builders Association Hosts Nationally Recognized
The Topeka Home Builders Association is proud to announce that for the first time in Topeka, we are hosting the National Association of Home Builders Professional Designation of Certified Green Professional (CGP) . Nineteen (19) area Builders, Remodelers, Heating and A/C companies, Realtors, City Officials, and Home Energy Auditors are attending this three day course to earn a professional, nationally recognized designation for Green Building.
Attendees at this conference will learn how green homes provide buyers with lower maintenance, a more comfortable indoor environment and greater long-term value. Techniques are also discussed for competitively differentiating your home products with energy and resource efficiency. This three day course for building professionals discusses strategies for incorporating green building principles into homes without driving up the cost of construction.
Dawn Wright, CEO of Topeka Home Builders Association, states “ We are very excited to be able to bring this level of education to local companies, that are striving to become more educated on the process of green building. This professional designation of CGP from the National Association of Home Builders is the highest level of green building education that a professional in the building industry can receive. This is also the first time that Topeka has hosted a nationally designated course. The National Association of Home Builders University of Housing also has professional designations for Certified Graduate Builder (CGB), Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR), and Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS).”
Attendees at this conference will learn how green homes provide buyers with lower maintenance, a more comfortable indoor environment and greater long-term value. Techniques are also discussed for competitively differentiating your home products with energy and resource efficiency. This three day course for building professionals discusses strategies for incorporating green building principles into homes without driving up the cost of construction.
Dawn Wright, CEO of Topeka Home Builders Association, states “ We are very excited to be able to bring this level of education to local companies, that are striving to become more educated on the process of green building. This professional designation of CGP from the National Association of Home Builders is the highest level of green building education that a professional in the building industry can receive. This is also the first time that Topeka has hosted a nationally designated course. The National Association of Home Builders University of Housing also has professional designations for Certified Graduate Builder (CGB), Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR), and Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS).”
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Novembers Are A Blessing At Beauchamp’s Gallery
It was November, 1975. Paul Beauchamp had recently moved his business to the Westboro Mart and was exhibiting the artwork of old friend Bob Sudlow. In those days, teenagers still bought eight track tapes and wore bell bottom jeans. President Gerald Ford lived in the White House and politicians argued about America’s dependence on foreign oil. Earth Day was still a new idea and Bill Gates had just launched a little venture called Microsoft. Things have changed somewhat since then……but not everything. You can still buy those bell bottom jeans. That nasty “oil problem” is still with us and the whole idea of “saving the planet” seems to have really caught on lately.
And something else remains the same- a November exhibit of Sudlow paintings at Beauchamp’s Gallery. At 89 years young, Bob Sudlow’s age is catching up with him a bit. He doesn’t paint as much in the fields as he’d like, but he still paints. That’s because painting is not just what Sudlow does, it’s who he is. And if the weather, (or those damn knees), keep him from venturing into a spring pasture as he would prefer, he can still be found toiling away in his studio; working amidst wafts of oil paint and stacks of drawings. Sudlow is a blessed man and he knows it. After all, how many people discover their calling so early in life and also have sense enough to answer the call? Sudlow did and did. And his blessing has been that for nearly 70 years he has been able to do exactly what he was born to do – paint.
And Sudlow’s paintings have been Beauchamp’s blessing. This November, Paul Beauchamp will once again welcome his old friend Bob Sudlow to an artist’s reception. The two will sit and reminisce. They will talk about the first Sudlow painting Paul ever bought…. over 50 years ago. They will talk about that canoe trip long ago when Paul made the best eggs anyone ever had. Paul will comment about what a great selection of art is on the wall this year and Sudlow will scoff and say he should have done a little better. But regardless of Bob’s humility, Paul will be right. There will be a great selection of art on the wall this November and Bob Sudlow will still be one of the best artists in Kansas……just like in 1975.
This year, the reception for Bob Sudlow will be held in conjunction with the First Friday Art Walk on the evening of November 6th. His show is called Sudlow; Paintings & Lithographs and the public is invited to stop by an visit with the artist. Included in the exhibit will be older ;landscape paintings, newer landscape paintings and a good selection of stone lithograph prints. The show will be displayed through December. Beauchamp’s Gallery is Topeka’s premier provider of original fine art, classic custom framing, art restoration, and repair. Located at 3113 SW Huntoon in the Westboro Mart, Beauchamp’s has been a mainstay of the Topeka arts community for over 35 years.
And something else remains the same- a November exhibit of Sudlow paintings at Beauchamp’s Gallery. At 89 years young, Bob Sudlow’s age is catching up with him a bit. He doesn’t paint as much in the fields as he’d like, but he still paints. That’s because painting is not just what Sudlow does, it’s who he is. And if the weather, (or those damn knees), keep him from venturing into a spring pasture as he would prefer, he can still be found toiling away in his studio; working amidst wafts of oil paint and stacks of drawings. Sudlow is a blessed man and he knows it. After all, how many people discover their calling so early in life and also have sense enough to answer the call? Sudlow did and did. And his blessing has been that for nearly 70 years he has been able to do exactly what he was born to do – paint.
And Sudlow’s paintings have been Beauchamp’s blessing. This November, Paul Beauchamp will once again welcome his old friend Bob Sudlow to an artist’s reception. The two will sit and reminisce. They will talk about the first Sudlow painting Paul ever bought…. over 50 years ago. They will talk about that canoe trip long ago when Paul made the best eggs anyone ever had. Paul will comment about what a great selection of art is on the wall this year and Sudlow will scoff and say he should have done a little better. But regardless of Bob’s humility, Paul will be right. There will be a great selection of art on the wall this November and Bob Sudlow will still be one of the best artists in Kansas……just like in 1975.
This year, the reception for Bob Sudlow will be held in conjunction with the First Friday Art Walk on the evening of November 6th. His show is called Sudlow; Paintings & Lithographs and the public is invited to stop by an visit with the artist. Included in the exhibit will be older ;landscape paintings, newer landscape paintings and a good selection of stone lithograph prints. The show will be displayed through December. Beauchamp’s Gallery is Topeka’s premier provider of original fine art, classic custom framing, art restoration, and repair. Located at 3113 SW Huntoon in the Westboro Mart, Beauchamp’s has been a mainstay of the Topeka arts community for over 35 years.
Arts Survey
The Topeka Symphony has been asked by ARTSConnect of Topeka and the Heartland Visioning Project of Topeka to share their Arts & Culture Satisfaction Survey with you. This survey has been developed by the "Happiness" Survey committee serving the Arts & Culture Team of Heartland Visioning. The committee hopes to gain insight into the satisfaction of our community as it relates to the arts. This survey also explores how the Topeka community finds out about arts events, which will be a key component to future arts marketing efforts.
Please help by taking this short survey! This online survey is the committee's only method of gathering information so your participation is critical. If you have any questions about the survey, please direct them to Kathy Smith, Executive Director of ARTSConnect of Topeka.
YES! I WANT TO TAKE THE SURVEY!
Please help by taking this short survey! This online survey is the committee's only method of gathering information so your participation is critical. If you have any questions about the survey, please direct them to Kathy Smith, Executive Director of ARTSConnect of Topeka.
YES! I WANT TO TAKE THE SURVEY!
DOWNTOWN TOPEKA HALLOWEEN COSTUME BASH
Over $3,000 in cash and prizes will be awarded at the First Annual Halloween Bash, Saturday, October 31, 2009 in Downtown Topeka. Ten downtown bars will be participating with their own frightful parties, ghoulish drink specials and creepy costume contests with cash and prizes at each bar.
Then at 11:00 participants will gather at one of the qualifying bars, The Celtic Fox, The Office, and Seabrook Bar and Grill, for the semi-final round.
At the stroke of Midnight the winners of the semi-final round will advance to the Finals, held on stage at 120 SW 8th St. The Grand Prize winner will receive cash and prizes of over $500.00, Second Place receives $250.00 in cash and prizes and Third Place receives $200.00 in cash and prizes. The cash and prizes have been donated by bars, restaurants and merchants in Downtown Topeka.
Then at 11:00 participants will gather at one of the qualifying bars, The Celtic Fox, The Office, and Seabrook Bar and Grill, for the semi-final round.
At the stroke of Midnight the winners of the semi-final round will advance to the Finals, held on stage at 120 SW 8th St. The Grand Prize winner will receive cash and prizes of over $500.00, Second Place receives $250.00 in cash and prizes and Third Place receives $200.00 in cash and prizes. The cash and prizes have been donated by bars, restaurants and merchants in Downtown Topeka.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Oktoberfest Fundraising Event to be Held at Matrot Castle
The Kansas Heritage Foundation is sponsoring a Halloween Oktoberfest Fundraising event beginning Thursday, Oct. 29 and concluding Saturday, Oct. 31 with a Halloween Family Fun Day. This event will raise money for Washburn University student athletes. The Washburn “Williams Fund,” similar to the Williams Fund established at Kansas University many years ago, has been created for this purpose. The program is to help the athletic program at Washburn University compete in the tough MIAA conference.
On Thursday and Friday, at 10 a.m., the gates of the Matrot Castle and Vineyard, 6424 SW Huntoon, will open for a huge garage sale. Gates will close at 5 p.m. Washburn Alumni have contributed art and property including antique automobiles, rustic cabins and rustic wood carvings, bronze statuary, Yoder Amish wood furniture and wood products, paintings, sculptures, Artesania (Molas) from Panama, as well as clothing, furniture, household items, and much more. We will also feature the Kansas State Fair chainsaw artist who has carved many of our bears, and other rustic art.
On Saturday, Oct. 31, we will conclude our Oktoberfest with a Halloween Family Fun event. Gates will open at 10 a.m. and close at 5 p.m. The Chainsaw artist will be offering his art for sale at an auction to be held on 4:30 p.m. as a fundraising event to benefit Washburn students and interns and other Kansas Heritage projects. There will be art/crafts on display and for sale in addition to the wood carvings, and the Matrot Wine Cellar will be open for free wine tasting!
We will host tours of the Matrot Castle to see the “ghosts of Matrot” in the attic of the Castle, free wine tasting in the Matrot Wine Cellar, woodcarving activities, costume events, kids games, music, etc. There will be fun and games for all ages with the Wittmer “Der Wiener Wegen” to serve brats, wieners, crout, etc.
The Washburn “Williams Fund” invites anyone who would like to donate property to the fundraiser to call 785.272.8989.
For media information, contact: Jill Bronaugh, 785.224.1851
On Thursday and Friday, at 10 a.m., the gates of the Matrot Castle and Vineyard, 6424 SW Huntoon, will open for a huge garage sale. Gates will close at 5 p.m. Washburn Alumni have contributed art and property including antique automobiles, rustic cabins and rustic wood carvings, bronze statuary, Yoder Amish wood furniture and wood products, paintings, sculptures, Artesania (Molas) from Panama, as well as clothing, furniture, household items, and much more. We will also feature the Kansas State Fair chainsaw artist who has carved many of our bears, and other rustic art.
On Saturday, Oct. 31, we will conclude our Oktoberfest with a Halloween Family Fun event. Gates will open at 10 a.m. and close at 5 p.m. The Chainsaw artist will be offering his art for sale at an auction to be held on 4:30 p.m. as a fundraising event to benefit Washburn students and interns and other Kansas Heritage projects. There will be art/crafts on display and for sale in addition to the wood carvings, and the Matrot Wine Cellar will be open for free wine tasting!
We will host tours of the Matrot Castle to see the “ghosts of Matrot” in the attic of the Castle, free wine tasting in the Matrot Wine Cellar, woodcarving activities, costume events, kids games, music, etc. There will be fun and games for all ages with the Wittmer “Der Wiener Wegen” to serve brats, wieners, crout, etc.
The Washburn “Williams Fund” invites anyone who would like to donate property to the fundraiser to call 785.272.8989.
For media information, contact: Jill Bronaugh, 785.224.1851
TOPEKA LOCKSMITHING GRAND OPENING
The Grand Opening Ribbon Cutting for Topeka Locksmithing will be held tomorrow, Thursday, October 29, 2009 at 1400 S. Kansas Avenue in beautiful Downtown Topeka.
Jon Abernathy, Owner of Topeka Locksmithing Company has more than 37 years experience in the Locksmithing industry ranging from simple lock out assistance to a complex Nuclear Power Plant. He has installed lock systems in companies as diverse as Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station to St. Francis Hospital. From 1986 to 1993 he ran Schlossmeister Lock & Key, which has now reopened as Topeka Locksmithing Company, or TLC.
Jon Abernathy, Owner of Topeka Locksmithing Company has more than 37 years experience in the Locksmithing industry ranging from simple lock out assistance to a complex Nuclear Power Plant. He has installed lock systems in companies as diverse as Palo Verde Nuclear Generating Station to St. Francis Hospital. From 1986 to 1993 he ran Schlossmeister Lock & Key, which has now reopened as Topeka Locksmithing Company, or TLC.
Friday, October 23, 2009
JUNCTION CITY COUNTRY CLUB ACQUIRED BY GREATLIFE GOLF & FITNESS
GreatLife Golf & Fitness announced today that they have acquired the Junction City Country Club in Junction City, Kansas. The new addition to the GreatLife family will include a 9-hole golf course and a state-of-the-art fitness center.
“Renovation and golf course maintenance have already begun,” said Rick Farrant, owner of GreatLife Golf & Fitness. “We expect to have the course ready to play by next April or May.”
The Junction City Country Club was shut down last year after approximately 80 years in operation.
GreatLife Golf & Fitness is committed to providing their members and guests with great golf and great fitness in a considerate, professional manner maintaining an atmosphere of relaxation and fun. Additional locations include: Western Hills, Berkshire and Prairie View in Topeka, Kansas; Lake Perry in Meriden, Kansas; Maple Creek in Kansas City, Missouri; River Oaks in Grandview, Missouri; and Chisholm Trail in Abilene, Kansas. More information on www.greatlifegolf.com.
“Renovation and golf course maintenance have already begun,” said Rick Farrant, owner of GreatLife Golf & Fitness. “We expect to have the course ready to play by next April or May.”
The Junction City Country Club was shut down last year after approximately 80 years in operation.
GreatLife Golf & Fitness is committed to providing their members and guests with great golf and great fitness in a considerate, professional manner maintaining an atmosphere of relaxation and fun. Additional locations include: Western Hills, Berkshire and Prairie View in Topeka, Kansas; Lake Perry in Meriden, Kansas; Maple Creek in Kansas City, Missouri; River Oaks in Grandview, Missouri; and Chisholm Trail in Abilene, Kansas. More information on www.greatlifegolf.com.
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