Planting the Topeka Zoo

TL;DR Topeka Zoo horticulturist Rick Knight thinks about the animals first when he decides what to plant. He's a bit afraid of the animals but, ironically, loves the bugs. He cautions against "plant blindness" and says having a green thumb is no more than folklore.

Rick Knight's first selfie. Plant is dancing doll ginger. It's the first time it's bloomed in 19 years.

Department Director Snow Plow Challenge

TL;DR Snow plow driving isn't for the meek...or department directors. But the City's media relations director has bragging rights for the next year. Just sayin'.

Our snow plow team really knows what they're doing, in case you somehow missed our V in KC. Bring it, winter.

Muddin' with the water crew

TL;DR: Replacing water pipes is dirty, muddy business. But our crews have a good sense of humor, and work hard to get water turned back on as soon as possible.

Human Resources should be left to the professionals

TL;DR I'm terrible at recruitment, so good thing we have professionals. City has a Personnel Review Committee to vet each position request for how it fits with our goals (we deny and change them, so no rubber stamps).

HR would hurt me if I didn't put this at the top

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Taking the Plow Crown

TL;DR: Driving snow plows around cars and people is extremely challenging, but we've got the best crew in the state for the job -- officially.