RUSSELL — Allison Neal wanted to find a job with a local family-owned company and the position at Office Products Inc. in Russell filled the bill. Neal is now the manager at the OPI Russell location.

"In addition to managing the store, I am also getting out into the community," Neal said. "We want local and areas businesses to understand that we offer a full line of office products at competitive prices. The goal is to build personal relationships and explain OPI’s commitment to its customers.

"I have been in Russell for over five years now and have been eager to work in the community," Neal added. "This family-owned business is the perfect fit for me."

Alex Lofland is her colleague at the Russell store.

Neal served as the national sales manager for ImagiPLAY, a small eco-friendly toy company in Boulder, Co. After moving to Russell, she continued to work for the company at her home office and then was given the choice of moving back to Colorado or staying in Russell.

Neal has an extensive background in restaurant management, and most recently was in the management program at a Hays business.

"Then I heard about the OPI position in Russell," Neal said. "I cannot tell you how excited I was when offered the job."

Jim Grabbe, OPI sales manager, said he is pleased that someone of Neal’s caliber was available for the job.

"Allison is very qualified and knowledgeable, and we are fortunate to have her at OPI," Grabbe commented. "We are looking forward to many exciting things for customers of the Russell store, which has access to all OPI services and print shops in Great Bend and Larned."

Neal’s husband, Brad, was born and raised in Russell. They have two children, Jamie and Jordon.

OPI is located at 724 N. Main in Russell, 1204 Main in Great Bend, and 516 Broadway in Larned.