Topeka Native Bob Totten grew up in the capitol city, attended Highland Park High School and graduated from the University of Kansas with a degree in journalism. Totten spent ten years as a reporter and news director at KSNT News, Channel 29 in Springfield, Mo., and KTKA Channel 49 in Topeka, before becoming a lobbyist for highway contractors. After retirement, Totten became a trustee and executive director for the Shawnee County Historical Society. The Shawnee County Historical Society runs and operates Ritchie House next door. Built in 1856 by abolitionists John and Mary Jane Ritchie, the Ritchie House is the oldest home in Topeka, and once served as a stop on the Underground Railroad. “The heritage we have in Kansas and in Topeka is really a big deal,” said Totten. “It tells you what the fabric of our community is like.” The Docking State Office Building, located in downtown Topeka, has made up the city’s skyline since 1957. The Joint Committee on State Building Construction met in September to discuss the demolition and reconstruction of the Docking Building to three floors or renovating and bringing the landmark building up to code. Bob Totten has recently been lobbying for the restoration of the Docking Building, while lawmakers finalize plans. “Haven’t had much luck yet on that,” said Totten. On a personal note, Totten has a passion for locomotives. “I like trains,” said Totten. “I wish I was involved in railroading of some sort.” He and his wife have also been busy restoring a home in Branson. “My wife is really into home décor,” said Totten. Bob and Bonnie Totten met in high school and now have four children and five grandchildren in Topeka and surrounding areas. Totten attributes his parents as a significant influence in his life and education. “Since I was born, they basically said, ‘you are going to college,’ said Totten. “And there just wasn’t any chance that I wasn’t.” Bob Totten admits he’s a jokester. “I have to be,” he said. “Sometimes there’s things that go on and the only way you can accept them is by looking at them from a terribly different point of view.” When asked about his hopes and dreams for the future, Totten replied, “World peace,” before letting out a chuckle. “In every Miss America contest, they ask the contestants, ‘what do you want?’ and they always answer, ‘world peace.',” he said. “That’s one of my hopes…to get people to be a little more congenial and understanding of the other person’s point view.”