News Stories

Stephane Pinhal, product specialist, Concentrating Pipette Select, InnovaPrep

From finding SARS in sewers to brewing better beer, InnovaPrep scales tech from KC cleanroom

As COVID-19 began to spread, InnovaPrep could almost immediately see the reason why — and it’s a realization that has gained the startup some serious traction, explained David Alburty.  “All the puzzle pieces fit neatly in place for us. The high transmission rate without definitive contact was one of the biggest tells,” added Alburty, the Drexel,…

Rightfully Sewn Mask Initiative; photo by Kim Golding

Rightfully Sewn acquisition stitches new path toward re-establishing KC as garment capital, Lapka says  

Rightfully Sewn’s acquisition by a 109-year-old nonprofit with national reach means more contracts, more employees and more impact for the mission-focused fashion company, said Jennifer Lapka. “No shakeups, no drama. The brand, programs, and team will stay intact,” said Lapka, founder of Rightfully Sewn, which this week announced a merger with Kansas City-based Alphapointe. “We…

Ofrenda at Guadalupe Centers in 2019

Guadalupe Centers gala, ofrenda pass from physical to virtual world; pandemic could reshape cultural traditions

It’s not a normal year, Alyx Bartrom said, acknowledging the obvious and embracing opportunities to innovate a more-than-30-year-old community tradition.  “You have to either adapt or you get left behind,” Bartrom, director of fund development and marketing for Guadalupe Centers, said of the century-old non-profit and social service agency’s upcoming Blanco y Negro Awards Gala…

Kay Hansley

Vine Online artist preview: A look inside Vine Street Studio’s first-ever virtual art show 

Kay Hansley is a doula, seamstress, art teacher, dietary manager and artist. She pulls inspiration from all aspects of her life, she said, and isn’t scared to take risks. “We should never feel afraid to express ourselves and let people see the real us. This was my first time really being able to explain how…

TRIOLOGY, NOWsystems, Inc.

Liquid barrier (plus fresh breath): Lenexa startup tests all-natural mouth rinse as COVID-killing solution

A couple’s curiosity in nutrition and health inspired TRI-OLOGY — a versatile liquid solution intended to combat oral diseases. Lab tests now are showing that same liquid solution to be capable of eradicating SAR-CoV-2, known as COVID-19, Janice King and Dale Winetroub said.  “We’re not doing rocket science; we’re taking whole plants and when they…