Topeka, Kansas Day One
Wednesday, January 15, 2025
Submitted by: Justine Henderson
Kansas Bureau of Investigations
The KARL Class XVII started out their Topeka trip with an unforgettable opportunity to step into the real life (and a lot more accurate) CSI. Stepping into the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) was like entering the nerve center of Kansas law enforcement.
Spread across three locations—Kansas City, Pittsburg, and Topeka—the KBI tackles state and federal cases, receiving evidence from every corner of the state. Our tour guides, Stephanie and Jessica, experts from the firearms department, walked us through the facility and gave us a glimpse of the incredible work happening there. They explained that the staff training process at KBI is rigorous – since I am sure she knew we we’re all thinking how this would be the coolest job ever.
New hires start the application process with a thorough background check and interview process before undergoing a two-year program ending with a competency test that includes mock cases and testimony in front of the entire lab and legal teams. They joked that it was a process that was meant to make them feel pressure and test their limits. They touched on their staff environment and mentioned that collaboration is key among departments. The staff will even donate blood and saliva for practice tests, fostering a hands-on approach to learning. We started the tour at the top floor and worked our way from top to bottom, getting a short synopsis of each department.
Digital Evidence: Typically, this is where specialists examine cell phones, GPS devices, computers, and much more. KBI’s lab is home to the only RF-shielded room in the state—a secure space that prevents any signals from entering or leaving. With a team of 5–6 fully trained experts, the tech’s usually start off with something small like a phone, and then expand to more complex devices like computers as their expertise and comfort level increases.
Chemistry: Next, we learned about the Chemistry department, where scientists analyze the composition of drugs found in evidence. Using tools like GCMS (Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry), they compare samples to known substances to determine type, amount, and purity.
Toxicology: The Toxicology team examines substances within the human body, like blood, urine, or other bodily fluids. Their work often focuses on identifying what was in a person’s system during the criminal event, in Kansas most often a DUI case.
Trace Evidence: The Trace department is divided into several specialized areas. Primer gunshot residue testing involves taking and testing stubs/swabs from a suspect’s hands or face and using a microscope to detect even the tiniest traces of gun residue. They also handle arson evidence and physical fit and fracture matches, which is where they examine pieces of evidence to determine if they were once part of the same object by physically fitting them together.
Questioned Documents and Impression Evidence: Here is where they examine documents that are suspected to be forged or altered, as well as the examination of physical impressions like footprints, tire tracks, or tool marks to identify potential suspects in a criminal investigation. The class lightened the mood by joking that if they were to ever commit a crime, they’d make sure they wore a different size shoe and walked with a limp. However, after walking through the building I had a feeling they’d be hard pressed to get away with anything. The best of the best was hard at work to solve these mysteries.
Latent Prints: In the Latent Prints section, science is the core of all. Here, experts compare fingerprints manually, using dusting techniques, UV light, and AVIS, a system that narrows down potential matches. But the final identification is always done visually, ensuring the most accurate results.
Biology: This team works with DNA—from fluids to touch DNA left behind by skin cells. A significant portion of their cases involves sexual assault kits. Using CODIS, a database of DNA profiles, they match samples to known individuals.
Firearms and Tool Marks: The Firearms and Tool Marks department was a favorite (ours and our tour guides). From testing whether a firearm functions correctly to comparing bullet markings under a dual-view microscope, the work is both intricate and impactful. The team also specializes in restoring serial numbers on firearms and matching tools like pliers or screwdrivers to crimes. You could tell that Stephanie and Jessica were extremely passionate about what they do at KBI, it was truly an honor to get their version of such a vital player in our criminal justice system.
We ended the tour with lots of questions and departed for lunch at the Kansas Bankers Association.
Kansas Secretary of Agriculture, Mike Beam
We gathered at the Kansas Bankers Association headquarters, where the day officially kicked off with lunch and welcoming remarks from Doug Wareham and a presentation from Kansas Secretary of Agriculture, Mike Beam, who provided an overview of the state of Kansas agriculture and dug deep into highlighting the Department of Agriculture’s role and programs. The department operates under the legislature’s guidance and encompasses multiple programs like Division of Agribusiness Services, Division of Agricultural Marketing, Division of Animal Health, Division of Conservation, and Division of Water resources. He highlighted Kansas agriculture as a cornerstone of the state’s economy and the 7th highest valued state at $24 billion in outputs. The top five sectors are beef cattle ($11.6B), animal slaughtering ($9B), grain farming ($6.8B), meat processing ($4.8B), and farm machinery ($4.2B).
Mr. Beam gave us a synopsis of the success of the Department of Agriculture in the Kansas Legislature and named his top 7 significant legislative actions affecting agriculture:
Mr. Beam also touched on a few bills that weren’t passed that would have had detrimental effects on Kansas agriculture. These measures reflect Kansas’s commitment to supporting its agricultural sector while addressing environmental and economic concerns, too.
CEO Kansas Bankers Association, Doug Wareham
We had the privilege of hearing from Mr. Doug Wareham, President and CEO of the Kansas Bankers Association (KBA). He provided an insightful overview of KBA, sharing key facts about the organization. Established in 1887, KBA has been banker-driven for an impressive 138 years and operates under a “one bank, one vote” philosophy. The association is made up of 42 staff members, 167 state-chartered banks, 25 nationally chartered banks, and 7 savings and loan institutions.
Mr. Wareham also addressed the challenges facing the banking industry, particularly the historical decline of rural banks. He highlighted factors such as excessive regulations, insufficient revenue, rising operational costs, a heavy regulatory burden, and the growing expenses of data and fraud protection. Despite these obstacles, his passion and commitment to sustaining and revitalizing rural banks were both inspiring and reassuring.
To end his time with us, Doug went out with a bang of an activity for the KARL class. We got to participate in his well-known activity called “I’m Just a Bill.”, where he and Ryan (also known as “Bill”) showed us the path and process a Bill goes through within the legislature. It was a great learning experience for those who were unfamiliar with the intricacies of the process and was a great way to learn.
Department of Commerce, Matt Godinez
We then heard from Matt Godinez, Assistant Secretary for Quality Places at the Kansas Department of Commerce, who provided an overview of the Quality Places Division. This division focuses on enhancing the environment, civic traditions, cultural amenities, and recreational opportunities across Kansas. It offers numerous grant and program opportunities aimed at supporting rural community development efforts – something we all found valuable. Key initiatives include the Kansas Office of Broadband Development, Kansas Main Street, Community Development Block Grants, the Office of Rural Prosperity, Rural Murals, and Rural Opportunity Zones, which provide financial incentives for individuals returning to rural communities. Additionally, the division includes Quality Place Specialists who lead programs such as Spaces to Places, Community Service Tax Credits, and the Historic Economic Asset Lifeline Grant, which supports the rehabilitation of downtown buildings, whether through new construction or façade improvements. Another innovative effort is the Residential Opportunities on Main Street initiative, which focuses on creating housing options in downtown areas.
As someone who comes from a rural community and has a growing passion for our community and making it a place worth coming to, I found the resources provided by Matt some of the most valuable of the day. We appreciated his dedication to community development.
Kansas Farm Bureau, Brenden Wirth
We ended our time at KBA with an excellent panel led by Brenden Wirth, Director of Political Affairs for the Kansas Farm Bureau. He began by sharing his passion for the Engaged Kansas program, which encourages and supports individuals considering public service or running for public office. He gave us a brief tour of the Engage Kansas website, where you can learn about various public offices such as school boards, county commissions, city councils, and more. Mr. Wirth also introduced us to the KFB Campaign School and Mini Sessions, which are available to those running for state legislature, school board, county commission, or other public offices. These sessions are designed to teach the nuts and bolts of campaigning and help participants execute successful campaigns. It was a great resource that the entire class could use either for themselves someday or to share with someone in their community who might need guidance.
He transitioned into the panel discussion with a powerful quote: “No better way to screw up your community than to screw up your school,” emphasizing the importance of strong leadership in school districts. He also highlighted that school boards are one of the top seven factors influencing teacher retention, a statement that resonated deeply with all of us – rural or not. The panel featured stories, advice, and encouragement from Jay Hall, Spencer Duncan, and Rollie Martin, who shared their leadership journeys and insights for those considering or currently serving in public office. Rollie Martin, who recently retired after an impressive 30 consecutive years in public office, offered some great and even humorous stories and advice, making it a fitting and inspiring conclusion to our time at KBA.
State of the State Watch Party
After a quick and eventful hotel check in (parking garages are not Class XVII’s friend), the class met for their State of the State Watch Party at the Celtic Fox Lounge. This opportunity brought KARL Class XVII Fellows and special guests together to witness the governor’s address. Laura Kelly addressed past accomplishments and outlined goals for the upcoming session, concluding a day filled with learning, networking, and meaningful conversations.
Topeka, Kansas Day Two
Thursday, January 16, 2025
Submitted by: Lisa Schemm
As many of you know Thursdays are the “big” days for KARL and today lived up to that in the amount of information that we received and the length of the day. We started the day at the Chamber Office with a fantastic breakfast. Eric Stafford gave us valuable information on the KS Chamber and what they do.
Dr. Watson with the Kansas Dept of Education challenged us in our knowledge of how many state board members as well as naming one member. We also were challenged in our thinking from his quiz that he gave to the class. It made me really reflect on how students can view or perceive things in their learning.
In 2024 Kansas had the highest graduation rate ever!
The panel discussion with Kelly VanZwoll (KS Bankers Assoc.), Jackie Garagiola (KLA), and William Wilk (KS Chamber) gave us the typical day in the life “in session” and “off session” here in the state of Kansas. They all agreed it is best to have an open and honest relationship with delegates and another point that they were passionate about it to keep your points to one page.
After hearing from the lobbyists on the panel we had some time to spend in the Capitol, either going to see our delegates, sitting in a committee meeting, or touring the Capitol.
We had a wonderful lunch sponsored by KS Co-op Council at the Celtic Fox.
Tara Mays, VP State Legislative Relations, and Larry Van Der Wege, Director of Regulatory Affairs and Preparedness, with the Kansas Hospital Association had the task of keeping us awake after the noon meal. They did a fantastic job of informing us of the challenges that hospitals and especially rural hospitals are facing. Hospitals are the 3rd largest aggregate employer in the state of Kansas. Hospitals are facing a lot of the same hurdles as many businesses in the State, limited workforce and under reimbursement are some that came up.
Adam York, Class XVI Fellow, was able to be with us and went over what to expect for the Hill visits in DC. He came with useful tips to manage our time there.
Kansas Commodities was the panel that we had the privilege to have this afternoon. Jancey Hall with Kansas Soybean (KARL Class XIV Fellow), was the moderator. Also present were Kaleb Little, Kansas Soybean Assoc. CEO, Adam York, Kansas Sorghum CEO, and Matt Teagarden, KS Livestock Association CEO, who talked to us about how the checkoffs were figured versus association fees. They also went in depth on how commissions and associations worked and the reasoning behind the rules and regulations in this area.
To conclude the day, we heard from KBI Director Tony Mattivi about his work and the events that went on in Garden City with the attempted bombing and murder of the Somali refugees. It is inspiring that you can have everyday people be heroes but it is equally mind boggling that people could have that much hate towards another human being.
On a personal note, the most eventful day was Friday though! Twelve of us got stuck in the elevator in the Judicial Center. One, it takes longer to get an elevator opened than most think. Two, it is great to be with great people in a difficult situation! It is in situations like this that you learn the true nature and personality of the class. I would not have wanted to have the memorable experience with anyone else.
Topeka, Kansas Day Three
Friday, January 17, 2025
Submitted by: Lucas Simmer
The day began with breakfast where we debriefed sessions from Wednesday and Thursday. The group shared its primary takeaways. Many were inspired by Department of Education Commissioner Dr. Randy Watson’s passion for education. Dr. Watson’s passion was evident through his actions to support children in schools and encourage them to lean into discovering and achieving their futures.
Additionally, we reflected on Kansas Bureau of Investigation Director Tony Mattivi’s keynote which provided a stunning review of the heinous conspiracy to commit a mass murder of Somali refugees in Garden City. We were rattled by the depravity that hate and ignorance could bestow on our local communities. I personally had to confront the reality that “it could never happen here” is a fallacy. It can and nearly did. Thankfully through the patriotic and heroic acts of law enforcement which and aided by a regular everyday man’s conscience that led him to risk his life as an informant, the militia’s plans were averted. I wrestled with the fact that the militia was comprised of men who could otherwise be any one of our fathers, uncles, brothers, or neighbors. Prevention is within our power, if we see something and subsequently do something about it.
As the debrief wrapped we moved into more sessions. Representative Ken Rahjes, equipped with personal experience, provided us with an overview of the Kansas Legislature. As Kansans we are fortunate to have a Legislature composed of everyday residents in session that doesn’t last from one year to the next. The part-time nature of the Legislature encourages elected officials to have other jobs not making a career of it.
Next, we heard from Reagan McCloud, Director of Government Relations for Kansas Electric Cooperative (KEC). McCloud presented historical and emerging energy issues. Urban areas were the first to receive access to electricity, higher concentrations of end users resulted in more favorable profit margins. President Roosevelt through the Rural Electric Administration (REA) in 1936 made strides toward electrification of our rural areas.
We learned about emerging challenges facing our energy sector such as grid reliability in an era of evolving energy sources and increased demand (16% annual increase or doubling by 2050) driven by technological advances such as artificial intelligence.
Along similar lines, Wendee Grady of the Kansas Farm Bureau, discussed landowner considerations for solar or wind energy land leases. A plurality of energy generated in Kansas is wind energy. Meanwhile Kansas is ranked 11th for solar generation in the United States. We learned about the critical importance of non-financial lease considerations such as gate procedures and decommission bonds. Agrivoltaics is the practice of simultaneously using land for agriculture and energy production. I anticipate that as time moves forward, so will this practice.
We ended our Topeka seminar at the Kansas Supreme Court with a presentation and Q/A from Justice Dan Biles. Justice Biles provided us with a thorough overview of the Kansas Judicial System including its Constitution, separation of powers, and court structure. We also discussed emerging challenges such as the rural shortage of attorneys and consistent implementation of technology. The absence of technological implementation, which enables virtual hearings disproportionately impacts rural attorneys, litigants, and other court personnel.
