Bob Luder began his career as an award-winning journalist in 1983 as a sports reporter for The Daily Reporter-Herald in Loveland, Colorado. That was followed by a 24-year stint as a sports writer/reporter at The Kansas City Star, where he worked the beats of just about every level of sports, from high schools to professional. Though he interviewed countless highly-famous athletes during his career, Bob counts an interview with pop superstar Elton John back in the 1990s an encounter that left him most star-struck. An '83 graduate of Kansas University's William Allen White School of Journalism, Bob began writing for Lawrence Business Magazine about 10 years ago and has reported on and written about everything from long-standing local businesses, the fire department, Allen Field House, and most recently, the development of Alvamar. He also writes for several publications in the Kansas City area, as well as Baldwin City. When he's not writing, Bob enjoys running, playing golf, and attending live music events.
Kansas State House Representative, House District 10
Professor, University of Kansas, Schools of Law, Business, and Political Science
Emprise Bank Market President – Lawrence
An activist for people with disabilities, Dot Nary works to eliminate disparities in housing, health care, transportation and recreation, and create a more inclusive community so the disabled can thrive in a society that often rejects them.
The seeds of a life in public service were sown early in Kansas Rep. Barbara Ballard, who gained her drive toward civic duty from her all-female high school and college, as well as with hands-on experiences during the Civil Rights Movement.
Alvamar, home to many of Lawrence’s most prominent and successful businesses and organizations, spurred the growth of Lawrence west of Iowa all the way to Clinton Lake.
Expanding west in Lawrence moves residents and businesses out of flood zones, and a combination of new development and infill may well be the ticket for Lawrence moving forward.
These local businesses have adapted and thrived through the years thanks to hard work and generations of smart business practices.
These Lawrence companies have overcome the challenges through the years and have become iconic staples in the community.
