CPI celebrates with ribbon-cutting

CPI Technologies celebrated its new location in downtown Iola with a Friday ribbon-cutting.

By TIM STAUFFER, REGISTER MANAGING EDITOR

November 24, 2025 - 3:08 PM

Celebrating with a ribbin-cutting to mark the opening of CPI Technologies’ new Iola location at 2 N. Washington Ave., are, from left, Gary McIntosh, John Baker, Heather Curry, Leslie Crane, Sandy Ryman, Roberta Crane, Neil Crane, Corky Lynes-Baker, Erik Crane, Rob Kassing, Sharla Miller, Josh Glover, Josiah D’Albini, Sarah Bowser, Ethan Martin, Alana Kinzle, April Kroenke, Jeff Yocham and Drew Shepherd. Photo by TIM STAUFFER / Iola Register

CPI Technologies celebrated its new Iola location at 2 N. Washington Ave., Friday afternoon with a ribbon cutting organized by the Iola Area Chamber of Commerce.

Vern and Toni Starks founded the company in 1963, selling it in 2017 to Erik Crane and their daughter, Heidi Starks Crane. Michael Middleton and Chase Vaughn recently refurbished the building, formerly home to Renee’s Bakery and Bake My Day.

“We’re happy to be on Iola’s square,” said CEO Erik Crane. “This is an Iola company, and we want to continue to be active in our community.”

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