Truth?

**Mostly true on the core facts and the filing, but the "$20 million" figure is an estimate/projection that's not fully documented, and the legal violations are alleged/disputed rather than proven.**

### Verified Elements:

- **Jane Roberts' income (2007–2014)**: Yes, documented. Whistleblower records (from former colleague Kendal Price at Major, Lindsey & Africa) show she earned **$10.3 million in commissions** on ~$13.3 million in attributed revenue from placing lawyers at top firms. Some of those firms later argued cases before the Supreme Court. This was first reported in 2023 by Business Insider and covered widely.

- **Disclosures**: Chief Justice Roberts listed his wife's employer on financial disclosure forms (as required by the Ethics in Government Act — source only, not exact amount). The complaint alleges he mislabeled commissions as "salary" in some years and omitted an equity stake in her later employer for three years (2019–2021). He later amended some forms.

- **Disbarment filing**: True. On April 22, 2026, attorney/journalist Christopher Armitage (The Existentialist Republic Substack) filed a formal disciplinary complaint with the D.C. Bar against Roberts (who is admitted there). It cites DC Rule 8.4(c) (dishonesty), alleged false statements on disclosures (18 U.S.C. § 1001), and failure to recuse in hundreds of cases involving firms that paid his household. He encourages others to file similar complaints.

### The "$20 Million" Claim:

This comes from the documented ~$10.3M (2007–2014) + an **estimate** of another ~$11.8M+ for later years based on averages and firm growth. It's not a confirmed total — Jane Roberts' later income (after leaving MLA) isn't publicly detailed due to disclosure rules. Fact-checkers like Snopes treat the full amount as unrateable/unverified.

### Context on Ethics/Recusal:

- Spousal income from firms with Supreme Court business has been a long-running controversy for several justices (not just Roberts).

- Federal law requires recusal for financial conflicts (28 U.S.C. § 455), but enforcement is limited — Supreme Court justices self-police to a large degree.

- No indication yet of formal discipline, impeachment, or removal. Disbarment of a sitting Chief Justice would be unprecedented and extremely unlikely without stronger evidence or broader consensus.

The image is promotional material for Armitage's Substack post — it's advocacy framed as journalism. The underlying $10M+ commissions and the recent disbarment complaint are real, but the narrative pushes a stronger "corruption" interpretation with extrapolated numbers. It's a legitimate ethics debate, not settled "gotcha" proof of criminality.

Henry McClure

785.383.9994 

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E. coli closes swimming beach at Kansas lake https://share.google/llcVVwOOrpaehJp2E

Henry McClure  
785.383.9994
sent from mobile 📱
time kills deals

Noted ✅️

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) issued an urgent cybersecurity advisory warning public and corporate users about a sophisticated phishing platform named Kali365. This "Phishing-as-a-Service" toolkit specifically targets Microsoft 365 environments—including Outlook, Teams, and OneDrive accounts—allowing attackers to bypass traditional multi-factor authentication (MFA) and gain persistent control. [1, 2, 3, 4] 

------------------------------

## 🛡️ How the "Kali365" Attack Works

Unlike traditional phishing schemes that seek to steal a victim's password, Kali365 abuses Microsoft's legitimate OAuth device registration workflow. [5, 6] 

   1. The Phishing Lure: Victims receive a highly convincing email designed to look like a trusted cloud collaboration or document-sharing service. The lure often mimics fake Microsoft Teams message notifications or secure business voicemail alerts. [2, 7, 8, 9] 

   2. The Device Code Trick: The email displays a specific alphanumeric code and instructs the recipient to visit a legitimate Microsoft device verification page (such as ://microsoft.com) to insert the code. [2, 7] 

   3. The Token Hijacking: Because the user enters the code on a real, official Microsoft page, the victim unknowingly authorizes a new device connection. The Kali365 platform instantly intercepts the generated OAuth authentication tokens. [2, 3, 7, 10] 

   4. Bypassing MFA: With these stolen session tokens, cybercriminals maintain persistent access to the victim's inbox, files, and chat records. They can log in freely without ever needing the account password or triggering subsequent MFA prompts. [3, 4, 7, 10] 

------------------------------

## 🛑 FBI Recommended Mitigation Steps

Since traditional MFA is insufficient against session token theft, the FBI advises organizations and users to apply a layered security approach: [3, 4] 

* Enforce Conditional Access Policies: Enterprise administrators should create strict policies within Microsoft Entra ID to block or limit device code flows for standard users. [6, 7, 10] 

* Disable Cross-Device Auth Transfers: Block the setting that permits users to seamlessly pass or transfer authenticated sessions from personal computers over to mobile devices. [3, 10] 

* Protect Emergency Logins: When disabling device code flows company-wide, ensure break-glass or emergency-access admin accounts are excluded to prevent complete system lockouts. [3, 10] 

* Audit Active Sessions: Regularly inspect enterprise access logs for unauthorized active sessions, unfamiliar device footprints, or abnormal geolocation logins. [7, 8] 

------------------------------

## 📝 What to Do If You're Targeted

If you encounter a suspicious device-link email or suspect your account has been breached, the FBI requests that you file an official cybersecurity incident report through the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3). [3, 7] 

When submitting, provide as much evidence as possible, including full email header data, the unredacted email body, any unauthorized devices added to your Microsoft account, and the timestamps or IP addresses associated with suspicious login attempts. [3, 7] 

[1] [https://www.facebook.com](https://www.facebook.com/fox5dc/posts/the-fbi-is-alerting-the-public-to-a-new-cyber-threat-involving-a-phishingasaserv/1464038702427352/)

[2] [https://www.livenowfox.com](https://www.livenowfox.com/news/fbi-alert-outlook-onedrive)

[3] [https://www.fox10phoenix.com](https://www.fox10phoenix.com/news/fbi-alert-outlook-onedrive)

[4] [https://invenioit.com](https://invenioit.com/security/fbi-microsoft-365-phishing-scam/)

[5] [https://www.inc.com](https://www.inc.com/amaya-nichole/fbi-just-issued-urgent-warning-anyone-using-microsoft-over-new-phishing-scheme/91351360)

[6] [https://www.facebook.com](https://www.facebook.com/fox29philadelphia/posts/the-fbi-is-warning-the-public-about-a-new-phishing-scam-called-kali365-that-allo/1448599040635887/)

[7] [https://www.govtech.com](https://www.govtech.com/security/fbi-issues-scam-warning-for-users-of-microsoft-outlook-teams)

[8] [https://www.facebook.com](https://www.facebook.com/FOX10Phoenix/posts/the-fbi-is-warning-the-public-about-a-new-phishing-scam-called-kali365-that-allo/1324814363186020/)

[9] [https://www.facebook.com](https://www.facebook.com/wfaa/posts/fbi-warning-%EF%B8%8F-a-new-phishing-tool-can-bypass-microsoft-365-multi-factor-authenti/1460840062746813/)

[10] [https://www.kark.com](https://www.kark.com/news/national-news/cyber-attackers-are-hijacking-microsoft-outlook-teams-and-365-log-ins-fbi-says/)

Henry McClure

785.383.9994 

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Credit Rating History =

Topeka’s Credit Ratings, Bonds, and Borrowing Power (2005–2026): Impact of Leadership Turnover

Topeka transitioned to the council-manager system in 2005 amid hopes for more professional, stable administration. However, the high turnover in city managers and interims (detailed in prior timelines) coincided with a period of financial management challenges, including reliance on reserves, budget pressures, and modest economic growth. While the city’s credit ratings have remained relatively stable in the upper-medium grade range, the frequent leadership changes likely contributed to a more conservative, reactive fiscal posture that has constrained bolder long-term planning and potentially increased borrowing costs indirectly.

Credit Rating History

Topeka’s general obligation (GO) bonds — backed by the full faith and credit of the city — have generally held steady ratings:

• Moody’s Investors Service: Long-term issuer/GO rating consistently at Aa3 (upper-medium grade) in available records from the early 2010s through 2024–2026. This was affirmed in multiple bond issuances (e.g., 2020 utility bonds, 2024 reviews). Aa3 reflects a strong but not elite capacity to meet obligations, with some vulnerability to economic shifts.
• S&P Global Ratings: AA long-term rating with stable outlook for GO bonds in multiple issuances (2021, 2023, 2024, 2025). This has been consistent in rating reports, supported by very strong reserves and financial policies, though tempered by an adequate economy and weak debt position relative to revenue.
• Fitch Ratings: Limited specific mentions for the city proper, but aligned with stable investment-grade assessments.

Key observation: No major downgrades tied directly to city manager turnover appear in public records. Ratings have held despite leadership churn, thanks to strong reserve policies (e.g., targeting 15–20% unassigned fund balance), sales tax revenue stability, and conservative debt practices. However, the lack of upward movement (e.g., to Aa2 or AA+) amid national peers’ improvements may reflect the cumulative drag of inconsistency.

State-level Kansas ratings (Aa2 from Moody’s with recent positive outlook in 2026) provide a supportive backdrop, but city-specific factors dominate local borrowing.

Bond Issuances and Debt Trends (2005–2026)

• Debt Levels: Total bonded indebtedness grew from ~$298 million in 2013 to ~$524.5 million by end of 2024. GO debt (core taxpayer-backed) has fluctuated but trended downward in recent years (e.g., decreased by ~$4M or 2.9% in 2024; down significantly from peaks). Revenue bonds (utility-backed) increased more substantially.
• Major Issuances: Frequent GO and utility revenue bonds for infrastructure (streets, water/sewer upgrades, levees, etc.). Examples include 2021 refunding/improvement bonds (~$38M total), 2023-A GO bonds, 2024-A, and 2025 series. These were routinely rated AA/Aa3, allowing market access at reasonable rates.
• Debt Limits and Capacity: Kansas law caps GO debt at 30% of assessed valuation. Topeka has stayed well under this (e.g., ~27.9% usage in recent years), preserving borrowing room. Legal debt margin remains healthy.
• Borrowing Costs: Stable ratings mean competitive interest rates, but not the lowest possible. Frequent leadership transitions may have led to more refundings (to manage costs) rather than transformative projects. Short-term temporary notes have also been used for interim financing.

Impacts of the Revolving Door on Finances and Borrowing Power

The ~10–12 leadership transitions since 2005 (5 permanents + multiple interims) created measurable drags:

• Disrupted Planning and Institutional Knowledge: New managers (and interims) require time to assess finances, often leading to short-term budgeting. This contributed to patterns of drawing down reserves for operating deficits (e.g., projected $15M+ gaps in 2027 discussions) rather than structural reforms. Long-term capital plans (5-year CIP) exist but face execution risks with each change.
• Reactive vs. Proactive Management: Firings/resignations (e.g., terminations of Bonaparte and Wade) create uncertainty. Rating agencies note strong policies but highlight adequate (not exceptional) budgetary performance and economic base. Turnover likely amplified reliance on one-time fixes, reserves, and sales tax (vulnerable to economic cycles).
• Staff and Morale Effects: Repeated onboarding erodes expertise in finance departments, potentially leading to higher internal costs or missed efficiencies. This indirectly weakens credit narratives around "very strong" management.
• Borrowing Power Outcomes:
  • Not Weaker Overall: Access to markets remains solid; no defaults or near-misses. Debt service coverage stays satisfactory.
  • Opportunity Cost: Stable but not upgraded ratings mean slightly higher interest costs than top-tier peers. Inability to pursue more aggressive growth-oriented debt (e.g., for major economic development) due to perceived instability may have limited diversification beyond government/services.
  • Current Strain: Recent budgets show pressure — using reserves, personnel costs rising, revenue lagging in some projections. This echoes national findings that high municipal turnover correlates with weaker long-term fiscal outcomes.

No Bright Spots in This Context: While ratings held, the "consistently inconsistent" leadership has reinforced stagnation. A more stable executive team could have built stronger reserves, diversified revenue, or executed visionary infrastructure/economic plans to boost the tax base and ratings. Instead, Topeka maintains a solid-but-not-outstanding profile — adequate for survival but insufficient for breaking out of slow-growth patterns.

In summary, turnover has not caused a credit crisis but has contributed to a ceiling on potential. Borrowing power is intact yet underutilized for transformative change. For the absolute latest, review the City’s most recent ACFR or rating reports on EMMA (MSRB) 

why spend the money?

Topeka’s Economic Stagnation: A Balanced Exploration

Topeka, Kansas, as the state capital, has long relied on government, services, education, healthcare, and some manufacturing/logistics. While it offers affordability and a central location, the city and its metro area show persistent signs of economic stagnation relative to faster-growing U.S. regions.

Population Trends

Topeka’s population has been largely flat or slightly declining for years:

• City proper: Peaked around 127,000–128,000 in the early 2010s; ~125,500 in recent estimates (2024–2025), with annual changes often near zero or negative (-0.15% to -0.65% in recent years).
• Metro/Shawnee County: Modest gains since 2020 (~2,000 new residents reported in some local updates), but overall long-term growth is minimal compared to national averages.

Kansas as a state has seen slow growth (~0.4% annual average since 2000), with domestic out-migration in many periods. Topeka struggles to attract and retain younger workers and families.

Economic Output and Jobs

• GDP: Topeka MSA real GDP was ~$12.2 billion (chained 2017 dollars) in 2023, showing modest growth from ~$11.7 billion in 2020 but limited acceleration.
• Employment: Government and services dominate (>50% of the economy). Unemployment hovers around 3.5–4.0% recently (close to or slightly below national averages), with stable but not booming job growth.
• Recent BLS data shows small fluctuations in sectors like manufacturing (stable but with some declines) and trade/transportation.

Local leaders note ~6% local economic growth since 2020 in some metrics, alongside targeted wins like logistics/distribution hubs (Walmart, Target, etc.) and financial services.

Income, Poverty, and Affordability

• Median household income: ~$56,956 (2024 data), below Kansas and national averages.
• Poverty rate: ~15.7% in Topeka (higher than Kansas ~10.9% and U.S. ~12.5%).
• Strengths: Lower cost of living and housing affordability compared to many metros, which some see as a draw (e.g., "Choose Topeka" relocation incentives).

Key Challenges Contributing to Stagnation

• Heavy Reliance on Government: As a capital city, public sector jobs provide stability but limit private-sector dynamism.
• Slow Growth and Out-Migration: Limited high-wage private industry diversity; challenges retaining talent.
• Housing and Infrastructure: Demand outpaces supply in some areas, with calls for more affordable units.
• Broader Perceptions: Rankings like WalletHub have placed Topeka lower on quality of life, education/health, despite affordability. High turnover in city leadership (as discussed previously) can hinder consistent long-term planning.

Kansas overall ranks mid-to-lower in private-sector job and wage growth in some analyses, with Topeka mirroring these state-level trends.

Positive Developments and Efforts

• Targeted Growth: Focus on logistics, food processing, financial services, and aerospace. Recent wins include Magellan Financial expansion (175 jobs expected, significant economic impact).
• Rankings: Topeka ranked #5 nationally for economic strength in Area Development’s 2024 report.
• Initiatives: Downtown revitalization, affordable housing funds, business incentives via GO Topeka/JEDO, and relocation programs. Infrastructure projects continue.
• Assets: Low business costs, central U.S. location, and institutions like Washburn University.

Outlook

Topeka isn’t in freefall — it has stability, affordability, and pockets of progress — but it lacks the rapid private-sector momentum seen in places like Kansas City or Wichita suburbs. Breaking stagnation likely requires sustained focus on diversifying the economy, improving quality-of-life factors (e.g., housing, amenities), and consistent leadership to execute long-term visions.

Like the "struggling flower on a vine" metaphor from our earlier discussion, Topeka has deep roots and potential but needs consistent nurturing to fully bloom. Local organizations like the Greater Topeka Partnership are actively working on this. What specific aspect (jobs, housing, etc.) would you like to dive deeper into?

"look at this" we need change = David Banks for Mayor

The Revolving Door at City Hall: A Timeline of Topeka’s City Managers Since 2005

Topeka, Kansas, made a significant shift in 2005 when voters approved the council-manager form of government. This change professionalized city leadership by placing day-to-day operations under a hired city manager, while the mayor and council focus on policy.

Since then, the position has experienced considerable turnover — both with permanent hires and interim leaders who step in during transitions and national searches.

Here’s a consolidated chronological timeline of Topeka’s city management since the change:

• April 2005 – April 2006: Neil Dobler (Interim) Former Public Works Director who helped guide the city through the transition to the new government structure. Served approximately one year.
• March 2006 – July 2011: Norton N. Bonaparte, Jr. (Permanent #1) Topeka’s first permanent city manager. Served roughly 5 years and 4 months before being terminated by the council.
• July 2011 – June 2012: Dan Stanley (Interim) Former councilman and state official. Served about one year.
• June 2012 – August 2012: Pam Simecka (Interim) Interim Finance Director who filled a short two-month gap.
• August 2012 – October 2016: Jim Colson (Permanent #2) Served approximately 4 years and 1 month before resigning to return to family in Arizona.
• October 2016 – August 2017: Doug Gerber (Interim) Then-Deputy City Manager. Served nearly 10 months.
• October 2017 – December 2021: Brent Trout (Permanent #3) Served about 4 years before resigning to take a county manager position in North Carolina.
• Early 2022 – September 2022: Short interim period (Details vary by source, with limited public prominence.)
• September 2022 – July 2023: Stephen Wade (Permanent #4) Served only about 10 months before being fired amid controversy.
• July 2023 – June 2024: Richard (Dick) Nienstedt (Interim) Veteran Kansas city manager who provided nearly a full year of steady leadership.
• June 2024 – Present: Dr. Robert M. Perez (Permanent #5) Currently serving. Perez holds a Ph.D. in Education with a focus on organizational leadership.

Patterns and Reflections

In roughly 21 years, Topeka has had five permanent city managers, with an average tenure of about 3.5–4 years. Interim managers frequently bridge gaps lasting from a few months to a full year.

Common reasons for departure include firings, resignations for personal or career reasons, and the natural conclusion of interim contracts. While some turnover is normal in municipal government, this pace is relatively high.

Topeka remains a non-growing city facing stagnation. Population trends show little to no growth, and many residents feel the city lacks a bold, unified long-term vision for the future. Like a flower struggling on a vine, Topeka has real potential — rooted in its role as the state capital and its central location — but consistent, stable leadership will be essential if the city is to build momentum on infrastructure, economic development, and quality of life.

Strong leadership continuity could be the key to breaking this cycle.

---

 

Watch "Saagar Enjeti is Lying about America’s weapons production capacity" on YouTube

https://youtube.com/shorts/7MXPhrfgr84?si=b_o3uxhL1xpJKN58

Henry McClure  
785.383.9994
sent from mobile 📱
time kills deals

Hey

You should put a light layer of hay (or preferably, weed-free straw) over freshly planted grass seed to protect your newly planted lawn, retain essential moisture, and shield the seeds from the elements. [1, 2, 3]  

Hay or straw serves several primary purposes for new seeds: 

• Retains Moisture: Seeds require constant dampness to germinate. The covering slows down evaporation, meaning you won't need to water quite as frequently. 

• Prevents Erosion: It shields the loose topsoil from washing away during heavy rains or strong winds. 

• Deters Birds & Pests: Birds and rodents will eat unprotected seeds. A light cover makes the seeds less visible and accessible. 

• Regulates Temperature: It insulates the soil slightly, keeping it warmer during cool nights and shielding delicate seeds from the harsh, baking sun. [2, 9]  

A Few Words of Caution 

• Hay vs. Straw: While often used interchangeably, straw is generally recommended over hay. Hay is made from nutrient-rich grasses and often contains viable weed and unwanted pasture seeds, which can take over your new lawn. Straw, which is the hollow stalks of grain plants, is cleaner and contains far fewer weed seeds. 

• Apply Lightly: Only apply a very thin layer (about ¼ to ½ inch thick). The soil should still be visible through the covering. Applying too much will smother the seed, blocking essential sunlight and trapping excess moisture, which can cause mold. [2, 10, 11, 12]  

If you'd like, I can: 

• Tell you how to properly remove or manage the hay as the grass begins to grow. 

• Suggest better alternatives to hay (like peat moss or erosion control mats). 

• Share a watering schedule to help you maximize germination. [10, 11, 13, 14]  

Let me know if you'd like to narrow down any of these options! 

AI responses may include mistakes.

[1] https://www.youtube.com/shorts/D7K8_p8u2ao

[2] https://lawnlove.com/blog/should-you-put-straw-over-grass-seed/

[3] https://www.facebook.com/groups/2732437180206924/posts/7502182079899053/

[4] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7kqNtdO5fns

[5] https://www.greenviewfertilizer.com/articles/why-you-shouldn-t-use-straw-on-your-newly-seeded-lawn

[6] https://www.facebook.com/groups/2732437180206924/posts/7502182079899053/

[7] https://www.quora.com/Is-it-okay-to-use-hay-to-cover-grass-seed

[8] https://northwestmeadowscapes.com/pages/faq

[9] https://www.facebook.com/scottslawn/posts/avoid-straw-when-planting-new-grass-heres-why/1474596111376016/

[10] https://www.reddit.com/r/landscaping/comments/50ift5/is_straw_necessary_for_new_grass_seed/

[11] https://www.reddit.com/r/lawncare/comments/inolgw/i_highly_recommend_against_using_straw/

[12] https://www.facebook.com/groups/creativegardening1/posts/1792757801209218/

[13] https://www.facebook.com/groups/creativegardening1/posts/1192331674585170/

[14] https://www.tamelings.com/grass-seed/

Henry McClure

785.383.9994 

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Good morning

Drinking hot lemon water first thing in the morning rehydrates your body after sleep, aids digestion by stimulating the GI tract, and provides a gentle dose of vitamin C. It is a simple, zero-calorie morning habit that can also promote fullness and help prevent kidney stones. [1, 2, 3, 4]  

The primary benefits of this morning ritual include: 

• Rehydration: You lose fluids overnight, so drinking water as soon as you wake up wakes up your body's systems and prevents dehydration-related fatigue. 

• Digestion Support: The warm water helps stimulate gastrointestinal motility (the movement of your digestive system), while the citric acid from the lemon triggers digestive fluids. 

• Immune & Skin Health: A squeeze of fresh lemon provides a natural boost of Vitamin C, which supports your immune system and helps the body produce collagen. 

• Kidney Stone Prevention: The natural citrate in lemons can increase urine volume and pH, making it harder for calcium-based kidney stones to form. 

• Healthier Weight Management: Replacing sugary morning beverages (like juice or sugary coffee) with lemon water reduces your caloric intake and aids hydration, which is linked to better weight management. [2, 3]  

A quick word of caution: The acid in lemons can erode tooth enamel over time. Consider drinking it through a straw, waiting 30 minutes before brushing your teeth, or simply rinsing your mouth with plain water afterward. [3, 5, 6, 7, 8]  

If you'd like, let me know: 

• Is your goal for this habit hydration, digestion, or weight management? 

• What is your current morning beverage routine (e.g., coffee, tea, or straight from the tap)? 

I can help you adjust your morning rituals to best fit your personal health goals. 

AI responses may include mistakes.

[1] https://health.clevelandclinic.org/benefits-of-lemon-water

[2] https://www.verywellhealth.com/hot-lemon-water-benefits-11945031

[3] https://www.nm.org/healthbeat/healthy-tips/nutrition/is-drinking-lemon-water-good-for-you

[4] https://www.vogue.com/article/lemon-water-benefits

[5] https://www.guardianphysician.com/blog/7-reasons-to-start-your-day-with-lemon-water

[6] https://8fit.com/nutrition/rise-and-shine-benefits-of-drinking-lemon-water-in-the-morning/

[7] https://www.coolwatercompany.co.uk/what-does-lemon-water-do-for-you/

[8] https://www.truemeds.in/health-library/benefits-of-drinking-warm-lemon-water

Henry McClure

785.383.9994 

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Robert (Dr. Robert M.) Perez (May/July 2024 – present) — ongoing (as of late 2026). How long will he make it?

 Norton N. Bonaparte, Jr. (often called Norton Bonaparte) was Topeka’s first permanent city manager.

Topeka switched to a council-manager form of government in 2005 (after earlier mayor-council and commission systems). Bonaparte started in March 2006 as the first person hired for the role on more than an interim basis.

List of Permanent City Managers

Here is the list of the five permanent (non-interim) city managers based on available records:

• Norton N. Bonaparte, Jr. (March 2006 – ~2011; terminated by council) — ~5 years.
• Jim Colson (August 2012 – October 2016; resigned) — ~4 years.
• Brent Trout (October 2017 – end of 2021; resigned) — ~4 years.
• Stephen Wade (September 2022 – July 2023; fired) — ~10 months.
• Robert (Dr. Robert M.) Perez (May/July 2024 – present) — ongoing (as of late 2026).

Interims (e.g., Richard Nienstedt, Doug Gerber, others) served between some of these but are not counted as permanent.

Average Tenure

Using approximate completed or current tenures for the first four (to allow a full calculation): roughly 5 + 4 + 4 + 0.83 years = ~13.83 years total → average of about 3.5 years per permanent city manager.

This is a bit below the national average for city managers (often cited around 5–7 years in studies, though it varies), which aligns with Topeka’s pattern of relatively short stays, often due to resignations for personal reasons, firings, or better opportunities elsewhere.

Note: Exact start/end dates can vary slightly by source, and interims fill gaps. For the most authoritative details, check the City of Topeka’s official site or archives.

Me. Barber

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FXIb_HM0J9U&t=397s 

Topeka Factor

Summary: "Henry McClure 'Live'" (YouTube video)

This is a casual, lengthy live stream (about 1 hour 13 minutes) by Henry McClure, a licensed real estate broker in Topeka, Kansas, and former mayoral candidate.

Key Details:

• Format: Informal live broadcast, likely on Facebook/YouTube, featuring conversation, local commentary, and audience interaction.
• Main Topics (from transcript snippets):
  • Light-hearted banter (e.g., "Sober October" jokes).
  • Local Topeka government discussion, including city salaries, hiring an assistant city manager, bureaucracy, and costs (e.g., criticizing high salaries for administrators while promoting his own business experience).
  • Real estate and business talk — McClure highlights his deal-making experience as a real estate professional.
  • Personal promotion: Mentions his real estate listings, career (started in 1979), and contact info.

The description notes some segments are sponsored by SNCO First (with McClure listed as Treasurer), and he promotes his real estate work and blogs.

Context on Henry McClure:

He ran for Mayor of Topeka in 2025 but lost to Spencer Duncan. He positions himself as an advocate for reducing bureaucracy and bringing business sense to local government.

The stream feels like a personal update/live chat style video rather than a polished, structured presentation. The user-linked timestamp (t=397s ≈ 6:37) falls early in the casual conversation portion.

If you want a more detailed breakdown of specific sections or topics, let me know!

Henry McClure’s Real Estate Strategies (MCRE, LLC, Topeka, KS)

Henry McClure is a veteran real estate broker with ~45 years of experience. He founded MCRE, LLC in 2000 after earlier roles at Coldwell Banker and the MaceRich Company (a major mall owner/operator). His career emphasizes commercial real estate, with a strong track record in redevelopment, leasing/sales, and navigating local government processes.

Core Focus Areas

• Commercial & Retail Specialization: Heavy emphasis on shopping mall redevelopment, commercial leasing, and sales. He also handles mixed-use developments and Tax Increment Financing (TIF) projects.
• Residential Involvement: Consistent work in residential sales alongside commercial activities.
• Advisory & Deal-Making Role: Acts as a broker, advisor, and "dealmaker," helping clients with site selection, investments, partnerships, zoning, platting, and complex transactions.

Key Strategies & Approach

1. Redevelopment Expertise McClure specializes in revitalizing underperforming retail properties (e.g., malls) and mixed-use/TIF projects. This involves working with public incentives, infrastructure improvements, and repositioning assets for new tenants or uses. He stresses making land "shovel-ready" through utilities, demolition, and site clearance.
2. Local Market Knowledge He frequently notes that "Real Estate is local in Nature," shaped by economic conditions, regulations, demographics, and community factors. His strategies prioritize deep understanding of Topeka/Shawnee County dynamics over generic national approaches.
3. Government Navigation & Bureaucracy Reduction A recurring theme is fighting bureaucratic hurdles in zoning, platting, incentives, and approvals. In his mayoral campaign, he advocated for uniform TIF and CID (Community Improvement District) agreements to streamline deals, reduce legal costs, and create predictability for developers.
4. Client-Centric Deal Making
   • Provides tailored solutions for new locations, profitable investments, strategic partnerships, or smooth transactions.
   • Strong negotiation focus to deliver favorable deals.
   • Long-term relationships (e.g., family involvement, such as working deals with his daughter).
5. Marketing & Visibility
   • Active content creator: Live videos, vlogs, blogs, and social media (YouTube @HenryMcClure, personal site) to share insights, listings, and build community trust.
   • Listings promoted via platforms like Crexi and LoopNet (commercial focus).
   • Personal branding as an experienced, creative, and accessible broker ("Inspiring creativity through the art of Real Estate").
6. Investment & Development Mindset
   • Encourages exploration of real estate investment opportunities.
   • Example: Developing land at 37th & Gage in Topeka for fast food, coffee shops, restaurants, and other users (including selling parcels to growing organizations like a church).

Business Model Highlights

• Independent Brokerage: Runs a lean operation (MCRE, LLC) rather than a large firm, allowing flexibility and direct client service.
• Long-Term Leasing: Interestingly, McClure himself leases his office (10-year) and home (20-year), which may reflect a strategy of preserving capital for deals rather than heavy personal ownership.
• Diversified but Specialized: Balances commercial redevelopment (higher complexity/value) with steady residential/commercial leasing.

Strengths

• Deep experience in complex, incentive-driven projects.
• Strong local network and government navigation skills.
• Personal branding through media builds visibility and trust.
• Pragmatic, results-oriented "dealmaker" approach.

Potential Limitations (Observed)

• Primary focus on Topeka metro may limit scalability for clients seeking broader regional/national opportunities.
• Emphasis on fighting bureaucracy suggests strategies rely heavily on local policy and incentives, which can be unpredictable.

Overall Assessment: McClure’s strategies suit clients needing an experienced local expert for commercial redevelopment, leasing, or TIF/mixed-use projects in the Topeka area. His approach combines traditional brokerage with modern content marketing and a pro-development, anti-bureaucracy philosophy. He positions himself as a practical problem-solver who leverages incentives and local knowledge to close deals efficiently.

Dr. City Manager

 

Trump's past rhetoric gives ammunition for holding any candidate accountable to results, outsider energy, and winning — regardless of who gets the endorsement. Kansas voters can weigh records, platforms, and that "drain the swamp" standard directly.

Trump's 2015-2016 Outsider Message was a core theme of his campaign. He repeatedly positioned himself as a successful businessman and non-politician who would "drain the swamp" and fix Washington from the outside, contrasting himself with career politicians and the establishment.

Key Quotes and Moments

• June 16, 2015 Announcement Speech (Trump Tower): Trump declared his candidacy and hammered on the need for an outsider. He said things like the system was rigged by insiders and that "we will never fix Washington from the inside unless we send someone to Washington from the outside." He emphasized his business success as proof he could get things done where politicians had failed. Full video is widely available on C-SPAN and YouTube.

• Liberty University Commencement Address (May 13, 2017) — though slightly after the initial campaign, this crystallized the theme he pushed in 2015-2016:

  “Treat the word ‘impossible’ as nothing more than motivation. Relish the opportunity to be an outsider. Embrace that label — being an outsider is fine, embrace the label — because it’s the outsiders who change the world and who make a real and lasting difference.”

  Video clips of this speech are easy to find online, where Trump directly encourages embracing outsider status against critics and the broken system.

Trump's broader 2015-2016 rhetoric framed the election as a battle against the "Washington ruling class," "career diplomats," "pinstriped bureaucrats," and establishment insiders who put America last. Supporters cited his outsider status and business experience as top reasons for backing him (per Gallup polling at the time).

This anti-establishment populism was central to his appeal: he wasn't beholden to lobbyists, had self-funded much of his early campaign, and promised bold action that career politicians wouldn't deliver.

On Tim (Ty) Masterson

Ty Masterson (often referred to as Tim in casual talk) is the longtime Kansas Senate President (since 2021) and a state legislator since 2005 (House 2005-2008, Senate since 2009). He's a career politician with over 20 years in elected office, including time on the Andover City Council. He's a realtor and small business owner by background.

President Trump endorsed him on May 24, 2026, for the Republican primary for Kansas Governor, calling him a "fantastic candidate" who "will never let you down" and praising him alongside Sen. Roger Marshall. Masterson has leaned into the endorsement, highlighting alignment on taxes, energy, borders, etc.

Your point on the contrast: You're tracking the tension between Trump's historical "outsider vs. establishment" pitch and endorsing a long-serving legislative leader in a state race. Sarnecki's campaign explicitly runs on being the true political outsider/businessman in this race — self-funding heavily, criticizing career politicians for Kansas's losses to Laura Kelly despite Trump's strong wins here, and promising business-style results on taxes, economy, etc.

Voters in the August 4, 2026 Kansas GOP primary have a choice: Masterson (establishment insider with Trump backing) or alternatives like Sarnecki (self-described outsider/business success story). It's a classic primary dynamic where endorsements can clash with the original outsider ethos that propelled Trump. Many supporters feel the same frustration you do when long-time politicians get the nod over fresh blood.

Trump's past rhetoric gives ammunition for holding any candidate accountable to results, outsider energy, and winning — regardless of who gets the endorsement. Kansas voters can weigh records, platforms, and that "drain the swamp" standard directly. 

Tim Gibbons --- You're Invited! Please join us for a special Meet & Greet with Tim Gibbons

 You're Invited!

Please join us for a special Meet & Greet with Tim Gibbons

Come say hello, enjoy great conversation, and connect with Tim in a relaxed setting.

Date: Monday, June 1, 2026 Time: 5:30 PM – to whenever

Location: The Cyrus Hotel 920 South Kansas Avenue Topeka, KS 66612

Whether you’ve known Tim for years or are just meeting him for the first time, this is a wonderful opportunity to chat and spend time together. Light refreshments will be served.

We look forward to seeing you there!

RSVP or just show up 

Updated Profile on Tim Gibbons

Timothy "Tim" Gibbons, a Topeka, Kansas native (Topeka West High School connections), had a long and successful career as a commercial real estate leasing executive, most notably with Macerich Company (often stylized as MaceRich in earlier references). He specialized in regional mall and shopping center leasing, working on tenant mix strategies, major retailer deals, and property revitalization across markets like California and Arizona.

His tenure at Macerich spanned decades (roughly mid-1980s into the 2010s), during which he served as Vice President of Leasing. He was involved in deals for properties such as Huntington Beach Mall (early 1990s) and later Phoenix-area centers like Arrowhead Towne Center. He helped navigate the evolving retail landscape, including post-recession recovery and the shift toward experiential retail.

Retirement and Current Life

Per your update, Tim has retired from Macerich and relocated to North Carolina. This marks the end of his active executive role in mall leasing after a notable career in the REIT sector. Public profiles (e.g., LinkedIn) had previously listed him in the Phoenix, AZ area, which aligns with Macerich’s strong Western portfolio, but your info indicates a post-retirement move east.

No high-profile public announcements about his retirement appear in recent news, which is common for senior leasing VPs who operate behind the scenes rather than as C-suite figures. He maintains ties to his Topeka roots, as evidenced by local conversations and references (including your own mentions of speaking with him about real estate and his “Topeka Boy” background).

Suggested News Article / Update Piece

Here’s a polished, ready-to-adapt draft in news/feature style:

Topeka Native Tim Gibbons Retires from Macerich, Settles in North Carolina

Topeka, KS — Tim Gibbons, a hometown success story in commercial real estate, has retired after a distinguished career with Macerich Company, one of the nation’s leading owners and operators of regional shopping centers.

A Topeka native with deep local connections, Gibbons rose through the ranks at Macerich (formerly often referred to as MaceRich), serving as Vice President of Leasing. Over decades, he played a key role in leasing strategies for malls and retail properties, securing major tenants and adapting centers to changing consumer demands—from the 1990s California market to Phoenix-area developments in later years.

Friends and colleagues describe Gibbons as a knowledgeable industry veteran with a strong work ethic rooted in his Kansas upbringing. Local real estate voices, including Topeka connections, have recalled conversations highlighting his insights into the sector’s evolution amid e-commerce pressures and the need for vibrant, experience-driven retail spaces.

Now retired, Gibbons has made the move to North Carolina, where he is enjoying the next chapter of life. While he steps away from day-to-day leasing responsibilities, his contributions to Macerich’s portfolio and the broader retail real estate industry leave a lasting mark.

For a more personal angle: Include quotes from you or mutual contacts about his career reflections, favorite deals, or advice for today’s market.

Additional Notes for Your Deep Dive

• Challenges in the Sector: Macerich faced headwinds common to mall REITs (department store closures, online shopping shifts, pandemic effects). Gibbons’ work likely involved repositioning assets during these times.
• Sources: Primarily professional directories, historical press on Macerich deals, and local Topeka references. Retirement/move details come directly from you.
• Next Steps: If you have contact info or want to reach out for a direct quote/interview, that would add great color. Public records searches for NC could yield more (property, voter, etc.), but privacy limits what’s openly available.

Would you like me to expand this into a longer article, suggest interview questions, research specific Macerich properties he worked on, or help with anything else (photos, related industry context, etc.)? Just let me know how to build on this!

Phillip say over the last 10 years spending has gone up by $10Billion (Ty is not my guy)

 Yes, the claim is accurate for the state's total (all-funds) budget.

Kansas's total state spending (all funds, including state general fund, federal funds, and other sources) has grown by roughly $10 billion over the last ~7 years:

• Around FY 2018: All-funds spending was approximately $15.9–16.9 billion (actuals and budgets in that range).
• By FY 2025: All-funds spending reached ~$25–27 billion (e.g., enacted budgets around $25.1–25.4 billion, with some reports near $27 billion including projections).

This represents an increase of about $9–11 billion, or roughly 60–65% growth in total spending.

Key Details

• General Fund (SGF) portion (core state revenues, excluding much federal money): Grew from ~$6.6–7 billion in FY 2018 to ~$10.4–10.9 billion in FY 2025 — an increase of ~$3.5–4 billion.
• The larger jump comes in all-funds totals, driven by federal funds, special revenue, and post-COVID expansions in areas like education, human services, and public safety.

Kansas Policy Institute and other analyses note that General Fund spending alone rose ~64% from FY 2018 to FY 2025 (vs. ~27% inflation), with actual FY 2025 spending at ~$10.9 billion instead of an inflation-adjusted ~$8.4 billion.

Context

• Kansas population has been relatively flat, so this is mostly per-capita growth.
• Spending accelerated during/after COVID with federal aid and policy choices (e.g., education funding, human services). Recent budgets under Gov. Laura Kelly and the Legislature have continued year-over-year increases in most categories, though some FY 2026 proposals trimmed slightly.
• This has led to concerns about structural deficits ahead (projected shortfalls by FY 2028–2029 despite rainy-day funds), even with tax cuts.

The "10 billion" figure commonly circulated (e.g., in political posts) refers to the total all-funds budget, which did rise by that amount. Official sources like the Kansas Division of Budget, legislative reports, and nonpartisan trackers confirm the scale.

For the most precise numbers, check the Kansas Division of Budget’s Governor’s Budget Reports or Kansas OpenGov databank.

You have my vote

Vote for the outsider, just like Trump told us to do so in 2015.  

---

From: Philip Sarnecki <team@sarneckiforgov.com>
Sent: Tuesday, May 26, 2026 2:42 PM
To: mcre13@gmail.com <mcre13@gmail.com>
Subject: Welcome to the Team!

 

County Captains: Welcome to the Team!   Congratulations and thank you for joining this movement!    By joining the team, you have become a critical part of our mission.  The Mission: To WIN in Kansas.    Every door knocked, phone call made, sign placed, and social media post sent brings us closer to victory. Every person reached is another vote on Election Day.    Because of you: More Kansans will hear our message More communities will be reached  More voters will turn out on Election Day   What This Campaign Is About   To WIN again in Kansas. The days of Republicans losing to Democrats are over To create good-paying jobs in Kansas for working families To lower property taxes and income taxes for working families To save our education system for our children To eliminate waste, fraud, and abuse in our government    What You Can Expect:    Mission Monday: Every Monday I will send you an email with a mission for that day. It may seem small at first, but with hundreds of County Captains across the state accomplishing the mission, we will reach every corner of Kansas.    I’m so grateful and proud to have you on the team. We are going to win, together.    Let’s get to work. — Philip Sarnecki   Candidate for Governor of Kansas I’m Philip Sarnecki, and I'm running for governor. I’m not a career politician—I’m a Kansas dad, husband, and businessman who is tired of Republicans losing in Kansas.   Here’s what I believe: Taxes should be low, property affordable, and opportunity within reach. Families—not bureaucrats—should guide our kids’ education. Faith, family, and freedom must come first. Kansas should lead—not lose.   I can’t be bought. I won’t play by the old political rules. And I refuse to keep losing while Democrats rewrite the future of our state. Paid for by Philip Sarnecki for Governor; Julia Samaniego, Treasurer Privacy Policy   Unsubscribe