Topeka, KS August 2021

AU G U S T 2 02 1

We Are The Golden City!

K I D S + P E T S IS SU E T H E D O G L IS T EN ER A S U P ERS TAR I N T H E M AK I N G B E "I N N" O N T H E SEC RE T

TOPEKA ER & HOSPITAL

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

AUGUST 2021 PUBLISHER

Brian Rodehorst | brian.rodehorst@lifestylepubs.com

Summer Days Pass Too Fast, Enjoy Them While They Last!

EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Kathy Graham | kathy.graham@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Rachel Chrisman L AYO UT DESIGNER

Emily Lisenbee

HELLO, GOLDEN CITY! We’re excited to launch our new interactive section called “Local Experience”. In each issue, we will create a list of local places you need to try. In this issue, our focus is on kids and pets so we have rounded up places in our area to take your kids for outdoor play, plus we’ve sniffed out the pet friendly spots too. Topeka has so much to offer; get outside and visit a new playground or bark park. Look for

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Kelsey Huber, Linda Ditch, Sue Baldani CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Kristol Kumar, Thomas Hall

“Local Experience” in future issues for awesome things we’ve found around town!

Since this issue features pets, I wanted to show you our very own fur babies. Meet Tyson, our twelve year old boxer, and Wes, our Tabby cat, pictured above. Tyson and Wes were not always buddies but have grown to tolerate each other quite well over the years. It’s probably because Tyson is too old now to chase Wes. LOL This issue also gives you an inside look at a beautiful secret garden right here in Topeka at The Woodward Inn! Looking for ideas for that final summer getaway?

That’s in here too. Check out some fun things to do in nearby St. Lou! We’ve got our list of the top six destinations. Make time for a fun trip with the kids (because we can finally travel) before the summer is gone and they’re back in school! Also, check out our tips for getting your kids to eat healthy foods.

Speaking of school, read about T'ahjanae Ray, who will be the first student to receive the Washburn Early College Scholars Program scholarship enabling her to earn her high

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

school diploma AND her associate's degree at the same time. Way to go, T'ahjanae!

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

One of our goals here at Topeka Lifestyle Magazine has been to bring attention to the

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

amazing non-profit organizations that make life better for so many in our community.

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

We are excited to share that we are starting online articles this month that feature

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

these wonderful stories that will warm your heart and restore your faith in mankind.

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Click the QR Code on page 26 to read about and support these worthy causes.

Take this month to spoil your little ones, whether they walk on two legs or four, as summer comes to a close and we watch them all get a little bit bigger and a little bit smarter.

Thanks so much for your readership and we hope our magazine is a small part of making the Golden City even brighter and shinier.

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

Blessings, ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEVADA | NEW JERSEY

Kathy Graham, Editorial Coordinator

CityLifestyle.com/Topeka COVER PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRISTOL KUMAR 4

Topeka Lifestyle | August 2021

NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

Proverbs 3:5-6 Topeka Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Topeka area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

Information in Topeka Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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INSIDE THE ISSUE AUGUST 2021

FEATURES 16 Kid-Friendly Road Trip to St. Lou! Visit The Gateway City

18 The Dog Listener Dog Day Afternoon owner seeks to provide exceptional service to incredible dogs

22 Be “Inn” On the Secret Discover a tropical oasis in an unexpected place

28 A Superstar in the Making Highland Park High School

22 18

sophomore gets admitted to Washburn University

28

DEPARTMENTS

16

4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Good Times

10

Around Town

14

Local Experiences

16

Road Trip

18

Animal Kingdom

22 Local’s Choice 28 Inspired By 30 Culinary Creations 33 Realty Report 34 Local Limelight

Independent Living • Assisted Living Home Plus • Memory Care • Respite Care

AldersgateVillage.org 7220 Southwest Asbury Drive | Topeka, KS

(785) 478-9440

CHOOSE NATURAL. CHOOSE TIMELESS.

I love the people working in the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), and really, at Midland Care in general. PACE helps to fill the needs of our participants and focuses on prevention. Our participants are given the care they need, with the compassion they deserve, at the standard they expect.

PACE is all-inclusive. We can meet and provide for participant needs at almost every level from mental to physical, and participants will come to understand how much they mean to our staff.

At Midland Care, we all care so much about the services we provide, and the integrity here is top-notch. The staff really love the participants, and so they go above and beyond constantly, to meet the needs of the participants.

- Kristie Hartig MSN, RN, PHN, CWOCN, CNE, Midland Care Staff Member

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CityLifestyle.com/Topeka

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GOOD TIMES 1.

2.

3.

Zoo Kids Camp The Topeka Zoo offers two camp sessions for teenagers each summer. These camp weeks are spent connecting these students to nature through live animal interactions, guest speakers, off-site field trips, hands-on activities, and more! Interested in getting your teen involved in zoo activities? Please contact 785-368-9137 for more information.

4.

5.

6.

1. High School Teen Camp 2021 | 2. High School Teen Camp 2021 | 3. High School Teen Camp 2021 | 4. Middle School Teen Camp 2021 | 5. Middle School Teen Camp 2021 | 6. Middle School Teen Camp 2021

PROFESSIONAL, RELIABLE & CLEAN CHAUFFEURED GROUND TRANSPORTATION SERVICES

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Topeka Lifestyle | August 2021

EAGLE AERIAL

SOLUTIONS

American Family InsuranceMashayla Hibler American Patriot Supply Brookwood Retail Liquor Cruise Holidays Dillons H&R Block Heart and Home Design Co. Kansas Drug Testing Linen Tree & Company Madison Avenue Boutique Pam Luthi Insurance Solutions Prairie Trading Company Ryan’s Pub

Shear Heaven Styling Simply Sweets by Janna SoulFire Nutrition Stillpoint Massage and Body Work Stitching Traditions Tequila’s Mexican Restaurant The Burger Stand The Laundry Chute The Tasteful Olive The Wild Bird House TopCity Tech Triple Edge Barbers Wheatland Antique Mall

FINE ART AND COMMERCIAL PHOTOGRAPHY Professional Commercial and Private photography for all your image needs, from digital images to prints, from handheld to drone.

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SHOP LOCAL. SHOP BROOKWOOD. Located at 29th & Oakley

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AROUND TOWN

Your Pool or Spa deserves the Expert Touch from Patio Pool & Fireside!

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TOPEKA PHOTOGRAPHER NAMED PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR Nathan Ham of Nathan Ham Photography Studio is honored by peers and jurors for high-quality pho-

3109 SW Huntoon St. • Topeka, KS Phone: (785) 357-5194 Facebook: @patiopoolandfireside Web: patiopoolandfireside.com

tography during Kansas Professional Photographer Association in 2021 Photographic Competition. It is his third award in the past five years. After being in business for over 39 years, and winning multiple awards throughout the years, Ham can proudly say: "We've based our whole business on great images that will live on the walls for decades. We believe that the quality of the final product and the whole

USE YOUR SMILE TO CHANGE THE WORLD!

Creating beautiful smiles for you and your family.

experience is important and worth the money.”

20THIRTY GALA The 20/30 Gala has turned into a Topeka tradition. We all look forward to having fun with lots of people that you only see a few times a year. The monies raised have changed the lives of many children in our community and everyone can be proud

800 Governor View | Topeka, Kansas | 785.233.0582 10

Topeka Lifestyle | August 2021

of putting financial help where it’s needed most.

Join us August 7, 2021 at the Stormont Vail Event Center. Visit 2030gala.org to donate or purchase tickets.

YOUR JEWELER FOR LIFE Shop for the perfect piece of jewelry or have one custom made.

We’re also experts in jewelry repair.

NEW PROGRAM OFFERS CASH REWARDS FOR TIPS ON ANIMAL CRUELTY The

Northeast

Kansas

Animal

Welfare

Foundation has created a new program to help stop animal cruelty. The Cruelty Stoppers pro-

Da ve Horn • Ow ner/Jew eler ( 7 8 5 ) 2 7 3 - 5 0 8 0 | donaldsonsjewelersks.com 902 North Kansas Avenue; Topeka, Kansas 66608

gram, offers rewards for tips leading to the arrest and conviction of people who abuse animals. Bill Acree, President and CEO of NKAWF, says if you suspect animal cruelty, contact local law enforcement or your county attorney. The agencies will notify the foundation of those who may qualify for a reward after the conviction. For further information about Cruelty Stoppers or the NKAWF, visit their Facebook page or NKAWF.org.

SCHOOL SPORTS PHYSICALS AVAILABLE AT TOPEKA ER & HOSPITAL Throughout August, Topeka ER & Hospital is offering sports physicals for student athletes.

The sports physicals are available 24/7 with no appointment necessary. Sports physicals are open to all middle and high school students and must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. “Being a parent myself, I know how hectic life can be,” Dr. Jared Schreiner, CMO says. “Making sports physicals available 24/7, without the need for an appointment, ensures every family will be able to easily fit this into their busy schedules.” Visit www.topekahospital.com for more information.

CityLifestyle.com/Topeka

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Topeka Lifestyle | August 2021

Designing homes from concept to completion.

KITCHEN B AT H WHOLE HOME REMODELS NEW CONSTRUCTION FURNISHING D EC O R AT I N G www.tdesigncompany.com

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CityLifestyle.com/Topeka

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LOCAL EXPERIENCES

KIDS + PETS WHILE IT’S NOT OVER YET, SUMMER IS SOON COMING TO AN END AND WHAT BETTER WAY TO BID ADIEU THAN TO SPEND TIME WITH FRIENDS, FAMILY, AND OUR FAVORITE FOUR-LEGGED FRIENDS! Embrace the end of the season by gathering the kids, dogs, and adults alike for some indoor and outdoor recreation and exploration, pet-friendly destinations that embrace our furry friends!

KIDS AT PLAY + Shawnee North Family Aquatic Center, fun aquatic center features a lazy river, kiddie play area, diving boards, and slides.

300 NE 43rd St, Topeka, KS 66617 + Lake Shawnee Adventure Cove, introducing the new floating playground in addition to the beach, paddle boards and boats, sand volleyball courts. A whole day of fun in one stop!

3125 SE Croco Rd, Topeka KS 66605 + Evergy Plaza Splash Pad. From a splash pad, to a fountain show to yard games and a 16 foot fire pit, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

630 S Kansas Ave. Topeka, KS 66603 + Sports Center is a family entertainment center featuring 18 holes of Goony Golf, 36 holes of Putter Golf, Go Carts for kids of all ages, nine baseball/softball batting cages, a golf driving range, and arcade room.

6545 SW 10th Ave, Topeka, KS 66615 + Kansas Children’s Discovery Center is a special place where children can explore, create, discover and learn through play.

4400 SW 10th Ave, Topeka, KS 66604 14

Topeka Lifestyle | August 2021

scan for more city-wide tips

PET-FRIENDLY EXPERIENCES + Bring your dog out for some exercise at Hill's Bark Park at Gage Park.

10th St & Gage St, Topeka, KS, US, 66604 + Tender Loving Care Pet Nursing Hotel offers 24/7 24/7 grooming, daycare and overnight boarding for elderly and recovering pets.

2500 SW 17th St, Topeka KS 66604 + Daycare and boarding services provide outdoor run, fun and play for your dog in an organized, safe environment at Dog Day Afternoon. Two locations, 8235 SW 10th Ave and 121 NE US Highway 24.

121 NE US Highway 24, Topeka KS 66608 + Fun for fido. Join the dog swim at Shawnee North Family Aquatic Center on Sept. 7 from 6-8 p.m.

300 NE 43rd St, Topeka KS 66617 + Taste the unique Beer of the Month with man's best friend at Happy Basset

scan for more city-wide tips

Barrel House. That's right, your four legged buddy is welcome to join you on the patio or indoors.

510 SW 49th St, Topeka KS 66609

IT’S YOUR TIME TO

SHINE! Care for your winning smile at Fox Family Dental

2300 Southwest 29th Street, Topeka, Kansas 66611

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ROAD TRIP

THE ST. LOUIS ARCH

K I DFR I E N D LY R OA D T R I P T O S T. L O U!

01

If you haven’t visited America’s tallest monument, this is a must. Take the tram up to the tip top of the arch and gaze out from 630 feet in the sky over the mighty Mississippi River. On a clear day, you can see up to thirty miles in either direction. Then go underground to the Museum at the Gateway Arch below the magnificent stainless steel structure to learn about the history of the arch and the city on the river. Visit www.gatewayarch.com for details.

The kids will love The Magic House, St. Louis Children’s

VISIT THE GATEWAY CITY

Museum located just 15 miles west of St. Louis in Kirkwood, Missouri where they will enjoy 60,000 square feet of fun

ARTICLE KELSEY HUBER

and educational interactive exhibits. Check out Dinosaur Train: the Traveling Exhibit available till September 6th.

Plus, play outdoors at Sand Castle Beach, a beachfront park, complete with tons of sand, hidden seashells, and beach umbrellas. Visit www.magichouse.org.

THE MAGIC HOUSE

IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A QUICK AND CLOSE SUMMER GETAWAY WITH THE KIDS THAT DOESN’T TAKE A LOT OF PLANNING, ST. LOUIS IS A MERE FOUR AND A HALF HOURS AWAY AND HOLDS SO MANY TREASURES FOR THE KIDS. Here are our top six picks for a weekend trip (or longer) to The Gateway City.

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Topeka Lifestyle | August 2021

02

GRANT’S FARM

03

05

ST. LOUIS SCIENCE CENTER

See what’s new at the Saint Louis Science Center. Kids

This family-themed farm about 25 minutes southwest

can explore over 700 hands-on displays. Be amazed

of St. Louis is home to over 900 animals. Take a ride on

by the life-sized animatronic Tyrannosaurus Rex. Take

the tram through the wildlife preserve. Your kids will love

a wild ride in the Pulseworks Simulator, experience air

the animal shows, deer park, feeding the goats, milking a

combat with the I-360 Interactive Flight Simulator, or fly

cow, riding the carousel, taking a camel ride, feeding the

a plane through the arch using the Take the Controls!

parakeets and more. Best of all, admission is free! Visit

simulator. Take in a show at the four-story Omnimax

www.Grantsfarm.com.

theatre, or see a thrilling space show at the Planetarium.

Visit www.slsc.org.

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A museum unlike any other, constructed from reclaimed building materials, including old chimneys, salvaged bridges, construction cranes, even abandoned planes, it is an eclectic mixture of children’s playground, fun house, and architectural ingenuity. This all-ages playground is filled with caves, slides and climbing equipment made from recycled and found objects. Hit the roof and grab a bite to eat, a view of the city, and a rooftop ferris wheel! Visit www.citymuseum.org.

With limited capacity on some attractions due to COVID restrictions, we encourage you to make reservations whenever possible to ensure you get to experience everything on your list.

CITY MUSEUM

ST. LOUIS UNION STATION There’s so much to do at St. Louis Union Station. Play golf on an 18-hole mini-golf course. Ride the carousel or the 200-foot ferris wheel. Check out the Aquarium at Union Station with 1.3 million gallons of water and thousands of

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aquatic animals. Plus, get lost in the mirror maze or test your agility on the three-story ropes course. Finish the day with an outdoor Fire and Light Show on the lake. Visit stlouisunionstation.com.

CityLifestyle.com/Topeka

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ANIMAL KINGDOM

‘7 7 MERCEDES 450SL HARD TOP CONVERTIBLE

THE DOG LISTENER WHEN JULIE CASTANEDA WAS IN THE FOURTH GRADE, A DOG WANDERED ONTO HER ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PLAYGROUND. The administration planned to call animal control, but Castaneda convinced the janitor to hang on to the dog until after school, possibly by insinuating it was her pet.

He agreed, and she took the dog home, where her parents gave her ten days to find it a new home. She did, with a neighbor on a nearby farm.

Today, Castaneda owns Dog Day Afternoon, a daycare and boarding service housed in two Topeka locations.

One is the Doggy Dude Ranch on SW 10th Street, which features a large meadow, hiking trails, and a swimming pond for the ultimate outdoor dog experience. The second is the Pet Ranch and Resort on NE US 24, which has a

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Topeka Lifestyle | August 2021

DOG DAY AFTERNOON OWNER SEEKS TO PROVIDE EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE TO INCREDIBLE DOGS

Julie Castaneda - Owner

D

DOG DAY

ARTICLE LINDA DITCH | PHOTOGRAPHY KRISTOL KUMAR

7,500 square foot indoor play area and a teeny town

for indoor and outdoor play. Castaneda has plans to open a large dog park at that location soon.

“I grew up with dogs,” Castaneda says. “I’ve always had a dog throughout my childhood, probably more

dogs than I should have had because I would bring home every stray and beg my parents not to call the dog catcher. I diligently advocated for dogs from a very young age, like seven or eight years old.”

Dog Day Afternoon opened on March 1, 1999.

Castaneda put a classified ad in the paper, hoping someone would see it. Local radio DJ Marty Brandon would make fun of the classified ads on his morning radio show. However, when he targeted her ad, people called in asking for more information. The next day, he read the entire ad on-air, complete with the

telephone number. Castaneda’s phone started ringing non-stop. Eventually, Brandon brought his dog, Reggie the Wonder Dog, to her daycare.

Today, besides daycare and boarding, Dog Day Afternoon also offers grooming and transportation services. There is also a specialized Individual Enrichment Program (IEP) available for dogs who CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Topeka

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AFTERNOON ANIMAL KINGDOM (CONTINUED)

“I’ve been in the game for 25 years, and I’m on my way to an exit strategy that involves more horses and fewer dogs,” she explains. “We have a five-year exit plan for me to be able to retire, and these kids take may not fit well in the more traditional daycare setting

over. Keep the name, keep it strong, keep it meaning-

because of anxiety, medical conditions, or a low toler-

ful to the community because it has such a fabulous

ance for group play. The staff and client create goals, and

reputation. I’m fully, fully convinced that these kids,

then the program evaluator and director come up with a

who are not kids, can take the reins and do what

personalized plan based on those goals.

Mama taught them to do. Keep providing exceptional

Many people call Castaneda a dog whisperer, but she doesn’t see it that way. “I’m a dog listener,” she explains.

“I get their cooperation by listening and building trust, and you build trust by showing them that you hear them.

Whispering is still telling a dog what to do. Listening is a whole different thing. I want to do right by the dog.”

Castaneda is now looking towards the future with a plan to let her children and employees take over the business.

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Topeka Lifestyle | August 2021

service for incredible dogs.”

A SMILE IS THE PRETTIEST T H I N G YO U C A N W E A R

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ARTICLE SUE BALDANI | PHOTOGRAPHY THOMAS HALL

DISCOVER A TROPICAL OASIS IN AN UNEXPECTED PLACE

LOCAL’S CHOICE

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Be “Inn” On the Secret

Topeka Lifestyle | August 2021

IN THE MIDDLE OF THE COUNTRY, THERE IS A LITTLE SLICE

The double-level pool garden has a 42x10’ heated lap pool which

OF THE CARIBBEAN. A secret garden and pool that many people

is open year round, plus a large hot tub. It’s surrounded by stone and

don’t even know exists. Where is this faux-island getaway? Right

cedar walls so it’s very private and hidden, and extremely romantic. A

here at the The Woodward Inns in Topeka.

unique feature is the adult tree house that overlooks the pool. Inside,

The owner, Elizabeth Taylor, wanted to retire to Belize, but when

guests can relax and enjoy the view on the double chaise lounge.

a hurricane came through, she decided to bring the tropics home.

Besides the main Inn, which Elizabeth bought 27 years ago,

“The pool area has an island getaway kind of feel. It’s lit up at

she also owns 13 other properties on the street used for business

night for socializing and night swimming, which the guests love.

extended stay. And although the bed and breakfast is reminiscent of

We also have a Calypso weekend every summer which is quite

old world luxury, it was in dire straits when she found it.

fun. With the music and the food, you don’t feel like you’re in the middle of the country.”

“I bought the main Inn because I believe Jesus told me to save her,” she says. “The former owner had died, a tornado had come CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Topeka

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LOCAL’S CHOICE (CONTINUED)

Adult Tree House

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Topeka Lifestyle | August 2021

through, and it had been used institutionally; it was in need of someone to love it.”

And love it she did! In addition to the pool garden, there are sweet smelling and colorful gardens all around the Inn. Elizabeth has always made sure the gardens had pretty flowers, but they, along with the pool garden area, have been completely renovated earlier this year.

“My friend, James Widman, who owns Cornerstone Landscape Studio, has also come to love the place and wanted to redo all of the Fence by Chris Ortega @ Met-Con Products Co

gardens,” she says. “He’s quite an artist. For three months he worked to renovate the gardens by taking out the old and putting in the new.

Now, they are just gorgeous.”

It wasn’t just the house James was drawn to, but Elizabeth as well. “There’s a reason people call her ‘Mama Bear’; she’s just a beautiful soul,” he says. “I was planning on renting one of her properties three years ago, and she and I started talking about life. There’s a generation between us, but she’s taught me and I’ve taught her. It’s the purest type of friendship I ever had, and it was God who brought us together.”

It really was a match made in heaven. The main features of the The Woodward gardens are the back pergolas that James built over the last couple of years. They are big and tall and wide and gorgeous.

The main Inn and the gardens are the perfect place for guests to relax. The comfortable double hammock is a delight, as is the cozy swing.

“I always wanted to have beautiful flowers and a good smell all around,” says Elizabeth. “The yard smells delicious with the honeysuckle and lilac and roses. It brings so much to the senses.”

“My guests love the property and I also have strangers knocking on my door asking to see the gardens. It’s overwhelmingly beautiful. It’s like a fantasy place.”

To find out more, go to www.thewoodward.com and then call Elizabeth to make a reservation.

“I can tell them what’s going on in town when they plan to visit, and about the different rooms, so people can get excited about coming.” For information about Cornerstone Landscape Studio, go to www.clstopeka.com.

CityLifestyle.com/Topeka

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INSPIRED BY

A Superstar in

the making HIGHLAND PARK HIGH SCHOOL SOPHOMORE GETS ADMITTED TO WASHBURN UNIVERSITY ARTICLE LINDA DITCH

PHOTOGRAPHY KRISTOL KUMAR

IN 2018, USD 501 TOPEKA PUBLIC SCHOOLS BEGAN COLLEGE

of program in her previous school systems.

PREP ACADEMY WITH 43 SEVENTH- AND EIGHTH-GRADERS.

What began with middle school students has

That first group from Eisenhower and Chace Middle Schools followed

now expanded to the elementary level with

a rigorous course of study, working two grade levels above the tradi-

the creation of Early College Prep Academy

tional curriculum with year-round academic opportunities. The goal

at Loman Hill Elementary.

was to see them graduate high school with 30 to 60 hours of college credit or an associate’s degree, and a clear plan for their future.

“I’m so excited not only for T’ahjanae but for all the students she represents,” Anderson

One of those original students, Highland Park High School’s

says. “She’s demonstrating that working at the

T’ahjanae Ray, will spend her junior year also as a freshman at

highest levels of rigor in middle school and

Washburn University. Ultimately, she will graduate with both her

high school can lead to college opportunities

high school diploma and liberal arts associate’s degree at the

very early. College Prep Academy also closes

same time. The district has secured community partner donations

that economic gap for families who simply may

to provide a full scholarship for Ray, who has also secured schol-

not be able to afford college expenses. We take

arships to complete her bachelor’s degree.

care of almost two years of college.”

“I’m ecstatic,” Ray says of attending college. “So excited and a

Ray feels prepared for university stud-

little nervous just because I’m the first, so I have a lot of pressure

ies. She will major in political science at

on me just to make sure I’m doing everything right. I want to set an

Washburn while staying involved in theater

example, and I want to show other students they can do this too.”

and other extracurricular activities at HPHS.

“This is a superstar in the making,” says Dr. Alan Bearman, Dean of University Libraries and the Center for Student Success and

Her plans include obtaining a law degree to help women in need.

Retention at Washburn. “T’ahjanae is going to do great things. We’re

“College Prep Academy was hard, but I feel

so happy she’s coming to Washburn. Schools all over America want

like it made me a better student because it

students just like this. We’re going to help her live her dream, and

made me take charge of my own learning,” Ray

she’s going to be a star.”

explains. “It really makes you understand who

The TPS College Prep Academy was the brainchild of district superintendent Dr. Tiffany Anderson, who implemented this type 28

Topeka Lifestyle | August 2021

you are as a student and what you need to grow and be strong academically.”

T’ahjanae Ray

Dr. Tiffany Anderson

CityLifestyle.com/Topeka

29

CULINARY CREATIONS

ARTICLE JENNIFER ANDERSON MSPH RDN

TE AC H I N G YO U R K I D S TO E AT H E A LTH Y

HEALTHY LUNCHES & SNACKS FOR KIDS AS PARENTS, ONE OF OUR BIGGEST PRIORITIES IS ENSURING THAT OUR KIDS ARE GETTING THE NUTRIENTS THEY NEED. But getting them to eat their fruits and vegetables isn’t always easy, especially if your kids are picky eaters like many seem to be.

Let’s talk about the benefits of introducing healthy food to your kids at an early age. Read on to find helpful information about feeding picky eaters.

With over 1.3mm Instagram followers and over 250,000 visitors each month, Kids Eat in Color is a VIBRANT, educational, and inspiring national resource for parents to learn the ease and creativity of “what to feed kids” who “love to have fun.”

About the Author

Known for her beautiful and colors-of-the-rainbow photos of flavorful meals, Jennifer Anderson is a registered dietician who has a FUN and playful approach to guiding parents to reduce mealtime stress.

30

Topeka Lifestyle | August 2021

4 B E N E F I T S O F H E A LT H Y LU N C H E S A N D S N A C K S F O R K I D S TO E AT NUTRITION IS ESSENTIAL TO KIDS’ DEVELOPMENT Kids develop quickly in the first few years of life, so incorporating a variety of nutritious foods is essential to their growth and development.

BALANCED NUTRITION LEADS TO HEALTHY KIDS Feeding your child a variety of foods is the key to getting them many different types of nutrients. Eating lots of fruits and vegetables can help your child fight off illnesses.

HEALTHY EATING AS CHILDREN EQUALS HEALTHY EATING AS ADULTS When little kids learn to eat fruits and vegetables at an early age, they are more likely to continue eating healthy foods as adults.

COLORFUL FOOD PROVIDES ESSENTIAL NUTRIENTS Each plant compound does something different in your body, which is why eating lots of different colors helps keep our bodies healthy.

3 T I P S F O R G E T T I N G YO U R K I D S TO E AT H E A LT H Y F O O D S MAKE SNACKS AND MEALTIME FUN We all know that kids like to play and have fun, so why not make food fun? Whether you’re turning broccoli into a microphone at dinner, or playing tic-tac-toe with edible carrot sticks, kids get into it.

DON’T GIVE UP Parents often assume that if a child doesn’t eat a food the first or sec-

GREEN STR AWB E R RY SMOOTHIE Real Easy

Weekdays

Prep time: 10 minutes

Meal Plan

Cook time: 0 minutes Yield: two 10-oz smoothies

ond time it’s served, the child doesn’t like the food. Many children may need to see or taste a food 10 or 20 times before they are willing to eat it.

INGREDIENTS + 2 cups / 235 mL baby spinach, packed

FORCING HEALTHY FOODS ON KIDS OFTEN BACKFIRES Often, making a child eat food or eat a certain amount of food

+ 1 ripe banana + 1⁄2 cup / 120 mL frozen blueberries

backfires. It may backfire in the short run by making a child more

+ 1⁄2 cup / 120 mL frozen strawberries

selective and less likely to eat the foods you want them to eat.

+ 1 cup / 235 mL full-fat milk of choice + 1 Tbs. / 15 mL hemp hearts, optional

S TA R T H E A LT H Y H A B I T S E A R LY The key takeaway here is to introduce healthy foods to your child

+ 2 Tbs. / 30 mL nut/seed butter of choice Sprinkles, optional METHOD

at an early age. Be patient with your pickiest of eaters, and re-intro-

1. In a blender or food processor, combine all

duce a food several times. Stick with it; their long-term health habits

ingredients. Process until smooth.

depend on it!

2. Transfer smoothie to two glasses. Top

Children tend to mimic adults, so try to be a good example and

with sprinkles, if desired.

eat the foods you want them to eat. Your health will benefit too! Try

DAIRY-FREE:

to make snacks and mealtime fun for your kids so they will want to

Use alternative milk and ensure sprinkles

participate and develop a healthy relationship with food.

are dairy-free.

CityLifestyle.com/Topeka

31

SCAN ME

Darin Stephens 785-250-7278

Annette Stahl 785-383-3157

Brian Laird 785-670-0043

Lance Royer 785-845-6618

Pam Trusdale 785-608-5117

Kelli Higgins 785-817-9255

Abby Dunford 785-608-8408

www.stoneandstory.com

REALTY REPORT NEIGHBORHOOD

TOPEKA

REALTY REPORT

ORIGINAL PRICE

SOLD PRICE

%SOLD/ORIG

DOM

BDRMS

BATHS

McFarland Farm

$975,000

$975,000

100%

0

5

6

Eagle Point

$620,000

$620,000

100%

3

6

4

Lauren's Bay

$600,000

$600,000

100%

0

6

5

Shawnee County

$450,000

$450,000

100%

2

4

3

Clarion Lakes

$435,000

$435,000

100%

23

4

5

Lauren's Bay Estates

$422,000

$422,000

100%

1

4

3

Colly Creek #3

$415,000

$415,000

100%

3

5

4

Clarion Woods #2

$410,000

$410,000

100%

156

5

5

Sterling Chase

$405,000

$405,000

100%

2

4

3

Shawnee County

$375,000

$375,000

100%

20

3

5

Sherwood Park

$334,900

$334,900

100%

25

5

4

Sherwood Estates

$330,000

$330,000

100%

1

3

3

Walnut View

$330,000

$330,000

100%

2

3

4

Shadywood West #2

$321,700

$321,700

100%

1

4

4

Westboro

$320,000

$320,000

100%

4

4

4

Urban Hills #13

$315,000

$315,000

100%

2

5

3

Shawnee County

$311,000

$311,000

100%

4

4

3

Shadywood West #2

$285,500

$285,500

100%

0

4

4

Belhaze #3

$280,000

$280,000

100%

0

3

3

Capricorn Woods #3

$279,900

$279,900

100%

67

3

2

Cherry Creek North

$275,950

$275,950

100%

9

5

3

College Place

$266,695

$266,695

100%

7

5

3

Wanamaker Meadows

$260,800

$260,800

100%

0

4

3

Woodgate

$255,000

$255,000

100%

7

4

3

$250,000

$250,000

100%

3

4

2

Westboro

This reflects a 30 day time period prior to our print deadline.

Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed and not a complete list of all activity. *DOM=Days on Market

From your vision...to reality

WE BUILD MORE THAN NEW HOMES, WE BUILD NEIGHBORHOODS. Annette Stahl 785-383-3157 | annette@stoneandstory.com | www.dultmeierhomes.com CityLifestyle.com/Topeka

33

LOCAL LIMELIGHT

INSTRUMENTS THAT ARE GUARANTEED TO SOUND JUST RIGHT

ARTICLE SUE BALDANI PHOTOGRAPHY THOMAS HALL

JIMMY HAYES, OWNER OF HAYES HOUSE OF MUSIC IN TOPEKA, IS AN INTERESTING GUY. In addition to selling new and used instruments and doing repairs, he’s also been a National Pool Champion, grew up and was best friends with the MVP of Super Bowl 17, John ing life and shows no signs of slowing down.

“I’ve been doing repairs since 1967 and can repair any instrument, usually within 24 hours,” says Jimmy. “I stopped counting the number I’ve repaired when I hit 50,000.”

He owes his career to his high school band director, Glenn Axelton, who gave him a job and taught him how to repair instruments. Since then, Jimmy’s invented 15 to 20 instrument repair applications and has a patent on one. He can also make parts for older instruments when none are available.

Hayes House of Music sells mostly band instruments such as trumpets, saxophones, and trombones, but also guitars, drums and other popular instruments. Every one, whether new or used, comes with a one-year guarantee.

“On eBay I specialize in unique instruments such as bass clarinets and baritone saxophones. These also come with a one-year guarantee.”

Jimmy has done repair work for well-known bands such as the Carpenters, Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass, and the Watts 103rd Street Rhythm Band. He also handles repairs for the musicians at Juilliard, USC, UCLA

L E T T H E M U S I C P L AY

Riggins, and met Robin Williams. He’s led an interest-

and all the schools in the Big 10 and Big 12, and the SCC. “I’ve sold and repaired instruments on every continent except for Antarctica,” he says.

Jimmy also believes in supporting the community by donating to just about any organization that needs it. “It’s just something that feels right.”

And, no matter how busy he gets, he always finds time to fish with his grandson, Mighty Max. Visit us at 2007 SW 6th Ave or contact us at (785) 234-4472 hayeshousemusic@aol.com 34

Topeka Lifestyle | August 2021

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