Wichita, meet Adam. You probably already have. Adam Hartke is the Deputy Executive Director of ROK ICT! - the progressive movement to “foster a positive attitude for, and activity within, Wichita Arts Culture.” This group of passionate volunteers has big goals for ICT, like their mission statement says.

“ROK ICT! was developed as a platform through which Wichitans can connect. It is also intended to be a showcase, representing the talent of local creative professionals and the vibrant lifestyle of the community. ROK ICT.com is a social network, featuring a publicly editable events calendar, forums, photo upload, video upload, member profiles and groups.”

Adam has been a part of it since inception; bringing his own love of music to the table along with his expertise as owner of Hartke Records. Currently they are working with two local artists: Aaron Newton and the band Outerboundary. His role as owner varies; at the moment he is organizing an October tour to New York for both the artists in which they’ll be playing a number of shoes and recording some tracks at Mason Hall Recording Studio. Primarily he acts as manager and producer.

How does he split his time?

“Local musician Derek Tucker has taken on a strong role with Artist Development with the Aaron Newton project. RokIct's Jared Brickman has been integral in contractual work for Hartke Records. Currently I am running at about 90% RokIct & 10% Hartke Records,” he said. And loving it.

Name? Adam Hartke

Age? 29

Title? Deputy Executive Director - RokIct! & Owner - Hartke Records

Place of Employment? RokIct! & Hartke Records

Number of Years Employed there? Less than a year.

Education?

3 1/2 years of college (Butler CC & Kansas University)

Are you from Wichita?

Yes, born & raised. My favorite thing about Wichita? The people. I love the people.

What do you do in your spare time?

Spare time is sparse. On the rare occasion it arises my favorite things to do are go to music & art events, go to the Flint Hills in Southeast Kansas, and play Risk with close friends.

Who is one person you’d like to meet and why?

Obama & Ian McKay. Because Obama is Obama & Ian Mackaye is Ian Mackaye. They are tied in my book.

What book are you reading?

"Shot by Shot". It is a book about filmmaking.

What was your first job?

Bus Boy at Steak & Ale on East Kellogg. I lasted a week.

What advice would you give to someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?

Your reputation is as important as the relationships you build. Never be scared to take a risk. Don't be discouraged, even in the face of great adversity. Learn from those who came before you. Be prepared to fall. Never compromise your integrity, NEVER. Study & research, always attempt to set the pace.

Do you have any pets?

No.

If you had to live your life over again, what one thing would you change?

Nothing. If one lives with no regrets, one hasn't lived & does not understand what it is to be human.

If you won $50 million in the lottery, what would you do with the money?

Lock myself in the studio and start producing numerous albums for numerous musicians. Follow that with massive promotional drives. Go all out to give artists & musicians an avenue in which to make a living creating and doing what they love.

What 5 words describe you the best?

Riverside, alive, aware, happy, & ready.

Are you pursuing your dream?

With every breath.

Are you a collector of anything?

Stickers on my bedroom window & $2 bills.

What is your taste in music?

Eclectic.

Favorite childhood program?

"Search For Animal Chin" (a Powell Peralta movie).