Issuu

F E B R UA RY 2 022 | TH E LO C A L LOV E I S S U E

The Golden City

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A Sweet Activity from Topeka Collegiate Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to get out the art supplies! It may be cold outside, but your child will warm your heart as you create “Heart People” together!

Step 1:

Cut out various sizes of hearts with construction paper or craft foam. The colors you use are up to you! You will need to have a larger heart for the body, a medium-sized heart for the head, and four smaller hearts for the hands and feet.

Step 2: Cut four strips of construction paper roughly 1 inch wide and 10-12 inches long (the length is up to you). These will be used for the arms and legs.

Step 3: Attach the strips to the body as straight strips or bend them, accordion-style. To do this, simply bend the strips forward and backward to make it springy prior to attaching them using a glue bottle or glue stick.

Step 4:

Add a face and any other details you wish with markers, crayons or colored pencils. You could also find some googly eyes or buttons!

Step 5:

Display your “heart people” proudly in your house. You could hang them on your front door or window to share with your neighbors! These also make great valentines for the special people in your life. Have fun and Happy Valentine’s Day!

2200 SW Eveningside Drive, Topeka | 785.228.0490 | topekacollegiate.org

This activity was shared by Mrs. Berryman, a kindergarten teacher at Topeka Collegiate. As the only independent school in the region, we prepare students to succeed in a rapidly changing world. Learn more at www.topekacollegiate.org

SHOW TIMES

Friday Feb. 25 - 7:00PM Saturday Feb. 26 - 2:30 & 7:30PM Sunday Feb. 27 - 12:30 & 5:30PM General Admission: Adults $16 Children (12 years or younger) $14

Arrive early for the best seats! There are ONLY 2 ways to purchase tickets: At the Stormont Vail Events Center Sky Zone Box Office (Open WED-FRI 10am-5pm) OR Online at Ticketmaster.com ONLY. DO NOT go to any 3rd Party Ticket ReSale site where you will pay double or more the price of a ticket! Parking is $10.

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

Love Local

February 2022 PUBLISHER

Brian Rodehorst | brian.rodehorst@citylifestyle.com EDITOR IAL COOR DINATOR

Kathy Graham | kathy.graham@citylifestyle.com

January was long and cold, but filled with the excitement that comes with the promise of the new year ahead. Reflection and resolutions lead us hopefully into 2022. And now we find ourselves in February - the month of love. So let’s keep that resolute spirit alive and use it to work on the things we love - our families, our relationships, ourselves, and our community. I will personally try to make those around me aware of my appreciation for them. I will work harder in the direction of spreading more love. My goal is to spend more time with the people that I most care about, to rid myself of my stress, and to lessen the anxiety that I may put on those whom I love. Let’s continue feeding our souls with kindness and respect and make this city and this world a better, warmer, more accepting place. Every month we strive to bring you the best stories of Topeka people and places, in an effort to unveil the past, improve the present, and inspire the future. We’re uncovering the gold in our Golden City one story at a time. Like jewels placed in a crown, these colorful tales of gratitude, grit and grace reflect the local spirit and deserve to be worn with pride. Our community grows stronger, richer, and more vibrant with every connection we forge. So get out there, get involved, love local and enjoy this beauty of a town that we call Topeka. And don’t forget, February is the shortest month of the year, so don’t waste a single day! With much love,

STAFF PHOTOGR APHER S

Thomas Hall | thomas.hall@eagleaerialworld.com Kristol Kumar | kristol@kristolkumar.com STAFF WR ITER S

Linda Ditch | lindaaditch@gmail.com Sue Baldani | suebaldani@yahoo.com Kelsey Huber | khuber2@gmail.com STAFF PHOTOGR APHER

Miranda Chavez-Hazim hazimhappenings@gmail.com AD DESIGNER

Rachel Chrisman LAYOUT DESIGNER

Jayme Emery

CONTR IBUTING WR ITER

Kathy Graham

CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER

Janie Jones

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Randy Radosevich CHIEF DIGITAL OFFICER Bruce Ianni DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

K AT H Y G R A H A M , E D I TO R I A L C O O R D I N ATO R @TOPEK ALIFEST YLE

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson AD MANAGER Chad Jensen WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise

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Proverbs 3:5-6 Topeka City 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 City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / M AGA Z I N E

F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 2

inside the issue The Local Love Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

16 Distinction in Jewelry

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Fashion Forward

Skin Care

Local Limelight

How To

Events

Realty Report

MB Addis owner brings her knowledge and experience to downtown

22 Confidence is Beautiful Options for looking and feeling your best

26 Taian to Topeka

Love Story Spans Two Continents, Two Decades, and Leaves Two Hearts Hanging in the Balance

32 Create Lasting Memories this Valentines Day with New Traditions Surprises for all ages

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Thomas Hall Janney’s Garden, North Topeka Kansas

S HO PPI NG

B EAU T Y LI FE + C U LT U R E

LI FE + C U LT U R E

R EA L ESTAT E

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F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 2

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen in the city. 1

@MRSLANEYLOU

@SJHAZIM

@STORYFACTORY.MEDIA

1: Love this little family of mine as well as a good party hat! 2: SJ Hazim and his lovely wife Miranda Chavez-Hazim. Photo by @Withyoubeloved Jackie Vincent 3: Exploring Gage Park Topeka, our son and dog. Photo by Miki Hicks.

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @topekalifestyle

F Plan Now

C I T Y SC E N E

Masonry done the modern way. One dream at a time. (785) 845-6068 • www.modernmasonryllc.com • chriscazier@modernmasonryllc.com

Keep Home Close to the Heart Family Owned, Locally Made Handcraffed Fine Jewelrr

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The Topeka CounTry Club TO

P E K A C.C EST. 1905

Love Where You Play! Join Today! www.topekacc.org (785) 354-8561 FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / M AGA Z I N E

F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 2

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses. The Center For Manual Medicine for Whole Body Wellness Dr. Steffen, DC, MS is currently in the 300 hours DABCI program (Diplomate of the American Board of Chiropractic Internists) to better serve the Topeka and surrounding communities. This additional service will compliment the chiropractic care while treating the whole body. DABCI providers utilize many tests (including: blood tests, food sensitivities, etc) to find out the cause of the problem and create a customized care plan for your health, wellness, and functional needs.

Scan to read more.

Thiessen Design + Construction Purchases Home at Last Furniture Store Thiessen Design + Construction has bought Home at Last, Topeka’s local furniture store. Thiessen Design + Co is a design-focused, GC remodeling and construction company offering an innovative approach to designing homes from concept to completion. Home at Last is known for carrying quality and custom upholstery items as well as trending home decor. You will continue to see those, while we curate the signature Thiessen Design look in the space.

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Peace of mind for life.

Visit CityLifestyle.com/Topeka to get in touch.

Life insurance can help provide security and peace of mind. Call today to see how I can help secure your family’s financial future. Yana Ross 6028 SW 29th St., Topeka, KS Office | 785.266.9262 Mobile | 785.215.1102 AgentYana.com

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Distinction in

Jewelry MB Addis owner brings her knowledge and experience to downtown 16

FASH ION F OR WA R D | SHOPPI NG

Michele Billam’s entire career has centered around retail merchandising, with the past 15 years focused on jewelry. The Topeka native started with Helzberg Diamonds in Kansas City. Then she moved to Dallas, Texas, to join Signet Jewelers, who own the Kay, Zales, and Jared jewelry brands. Her final move was to Miami and a job with a division of Louis Vuitton, placing jewelry and luxury items in cruise ship shops. Then the Covid-19 pandemic hit. Billam says, “I was spending a lot of time managing teams on Zoom, and there was a lot of Zoom fatigue. It gave me a chance to look at my life and say, okay, is this really what I want to be doing? Do I want to be in Miami, which is gorgeous and an easy place to live, but where we are far from family and friends? It was time to move home, but I was not going to give up jewelry. I love jewelry. It was an opportunity to hit a reset button.” Billam, a Shawnee Heights High School and Washburn University graduate, was attracted to the energy and revitalization of Downtown Topeka. She opened MB Addis & Co. in a newly refurbished 1913 building across from the Cyrus Hotel, featuring a different shopping environment from the competition. The atmosphere is upscale, open, airy, and bright. Coffee or wine is offered to customers for their enjoyment while they shop. Perhaps most important, the store offers a unique assortment of pieces curated worldwide. Billam has access to world-renowned designers thanks to her international market travel during her corporate years. She maintained relationships with business associates and companies certified to have sustainable and ethical sourcing practices in place. She notes, “A couple of the collections we have in the store, I was the only one in the U.S. to have them when they came out, and now there may be 10 other retailers with them. I’m getting ready to launch a collection close to Valentine’s Day, where I’m one of only 50 stores for the next year to receive products. So, my relationships and what I’m allowed to get access to and bring to Topeka sets me apart.” CONTINUED >

ARTICLE BY LINDA DITCH PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRISTOL KUMAR FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / M AGA Z I N E

“One of the reasons I love jewelry is because every piece of jewelry in your jewelry box has a memory tied to it. Sometimes it’s a sad memory, a reflective memory, a happy occasion. Whatever it is, it’s very sentimental to you.” -MICHELE BILLAM

However, if you’re budget-conscious, don’t let the luxury feel scare you. “We have sterling silver and diamonds starting at $65 in our store,” Billam says. “Just because we’ve provided an upscale luxury environment so that you can enjoy the shopping experience doesn’t mean you can’t afford to come in here regardless of your budget or occasion.” Billam and her staff know how to help customers find the perfect piece, whether for them or as a gift for someone else. The team goes through a series of questions: Does the recipient like white or yellow metals? Gemstones or diamonds? What does she wear every day? What are her interests? “But at the end of the day, most people love a piece of jewelry no matter who gave it to them,” says Billam. “One of the

FASH ION F OR WA R D | SHOPPI NG

reasons I love jewelry is because every piece of jewelry in your jewelry box has a memory tied to it. Sometimes it’s a sad memory, a reflective memory, a happy occasion. Whatever it is, it’s very sentimental to you. You know when you got it, who you received it from, and what the occasion was. I think that’s one of the beautiful things with jewelry.” The MB in the store’s name is for Billam, while the Addis pays homage to Margaret Addis, who opened her first Topeka jewelry store in 1906. Addis was one of the few women jewelers and was known nationally for her business acumen. An article in The Topeka Daily Capital published on February 27, 1909, states, “Miss Addis, of 817 Kansas Avenue, has demonstrated the fact the business of conducting a most up-to-date and reliable

jewelry business is quite within a woman’s province, provided the woman is resourceful, intelligent, industrious and honest as to method and intention… Distinction in Jewelry is her motto. No woman in Kansas has been more successful in business and her store is destined for greater things in the business world.” Billam says, “Margaret Addis commanded a lot of respect from a lot of traditional men in the industry, to the point where when she tried to retire from a board position, they wouldn’t let her. That’s what I hope to aspire to. To be that well known in the community. To be that well-loved, but then also to be important to the industry.” MB Addis & Co. is at 923 S. Kansas Ave. For store hours and to browse some of the collections, visit mbaddis.com.

Michele Billam - Owner

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / M AGA Z I N E

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FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / M AGA Z I N E

Dr. Jack Peterson

CONFIDENCE IS BEAUTIFUL OPTIONS FOR LOOKING AND FEELING YOUR BEST ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRISTOL KUMAR

S KIN CA R E | BEAU TY

Breast augmentation, Botox, and Brazilian butt-lift surgeries may seem commonplace among the rich and famous, but plastic surgery and aesthetic procedures aren't just for those living in Hollywood. Many people across the Midwest are also choosing these procedures, including right here in Kansas. Dual-board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Jack Peterson, with an office in Topeka, meets hundreds of patients a year seeking out ways to reshape their bodies, enhance their faces and/or refresh their appearances. “We spend a lot of time discussing things we can do for people in a positive way, and we don’t focus on beauty, but on confidence,” says Mary, the patient coordinator, who helps guide clients through the entire process. “We don’t say, ‘We’re going to make you look more beautiful,’ but instead, ‘We’re going to make you feel more confident in life,’ whether that’s through surgery, skin care or everything in between. We want to help clients be the best they can be in their day- to-day life.” Mary will also listen to clients’ goals and work within their budgets. If they decide to move forward, she’ll handle the scheduling and work with insurance companies if a procedure is medically necessary. She also can put their worries to rest about the procedures themselves. “Dr. Peterson has been practicing for 27 years, so he has a lot of experience,” says Mary. “He hasn’t done hundreds of procedures; he’s done thousands, and I think when people are contemplating plastic surgery or other medical procedures, they feel more comfortable knowing that.” Dr. Peterson performs body and facial surgeries, restoration procedures, minimally-invasive treatments, and non-invasive aesthetic services. "There are many people in the Midwest and greater Topeka area

who seek out plastic surgery procedures or cosmetic services to fix something they don't like about their appearance or their body shape," he says. One of the most popular procedures is liposuction, which helps remove areas of stubborn fat that will not budge even with the healthiest of diets or most rigorous gym routine. Abdominoplasty (also known as a "tummy tuck") and breast surgeries - including breast implants and breast lift procedures - are also popular. "While breast implant surgery is an often-requested surgery, many women also seek out breast lifts to improve the appearance of their breasts after the effects of pregnancy and breastfeeding," says Dr. Peterson. In the last few years, he’s also seen patients combine body surgical procedures into packages, such as the “Mommy Makeover.” "This is a popular approach, as it can give clients the desired results without having to undergo anesthesia multiple times.” he says. And, these combination treatments are not just for women. Men can also feel self- conscious about their bodies and are choosing to combine body surgery procedures as well – what some are calling the “Daddy Do-over.” They are choosing stand- alone surgeries like liposuction, tummy tucks, and breast reduction as well. Often requested facial surgeries for both men and women include rhinoplasty (nose job), facelift, and a blepharoplasty eyelid lift procedure, which can treat sagging skin on the eyelids. "Eyelid lift surgery is a very popular procedure, and its benefits are twofold," says Dr. Peterson. "First, sagging skin can impede vision, making driving dangerous and other day-to-day activities difficult. Second, sagging skin can also make the eyes look older, making your overall appearance appear older as well." CONTINUED >

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / M AGA Z I N E

Dr. Peterson has seen changes in the demand for plastic surgery and aesthetic procedures in the last 25 years - some of which means no surgery is necessary at all. "Advances in technology have changed how these procedures are performed,” he says. “For example, where before the face lift procedure was a very invasive surgery, we now have options that have made it minimally invasive. Fillers can replace areas of lost volume in place of an implant, as well.” These procedures are subtle and also mean little to no recovery times. Although these procedures are non-surgical, Mary stresses that care needs to be taken to avoid complications. “People should have a review of their medications that, for example, may make you bruise more easily or medications that may not mix well with some injectables,” she says. “When clients go to a Med Spa, they should find out who the medical director is and make sure the establishment keeps medical records, such as lot numbers. So, if a

S KIN CA R E | BEAU TY

year down the road, they need to know what the lot number of their Juvéderm ® injection was, they can find out.” Having a doctor in-house when doing some of these procedures is not only a legal requirement in Kansas, but also a necessary one. “In our office, Dr. Peterson handles all the injections,” says Mary. “Not only is he a board-certified plastic surgeon, he’s also an ENT [Ear, Nose & Throat] doctor, so he knows facial anatomy really well and clients don’t need to worry that when an injectable is being done under their eyes, for example, that there will be any issues or complications.” Dr. Peterson’s experienced and highly-trained aestheticians provide many of the other non-surgical treatments, such as laser hair removal, microneedling and chemical peels. To find out more, or to make an appointment to look your best, go to https://drjackpeterson.com/ or call 785-329-4148.

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Dave Horn Ow ner/Jew eler ( 7 8 5 ) 2 7 3 - 5 0 8 0 | donaldsonsjewelersks.com 902 North Kansas Avenue; Topeka, Kansas 66608 FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / M AGA Z I N E

TAIAN TO TOPEKA A Love Story That Spans Two Continents, Two Decades, and Leaves Two Hearts Hanging in the Balance ARTICLE BY KELSEY HUBER PHOTOGRAPHY BY THOMAS HALL

On a small island just off the shore of a little lake in northern Topeka stands a beautiful Chinese pagoda. It seems simultaneously out of place and at home. To those who know Steve and Janney Duncan, it is a symbol of love. An unlikely love that brought two people from different continents to a single place they call home. This love story begins back in 1996 in Taian, China. Janney had gotten her engineering degree and was working for a Chinese company when she met Steve Duncan on a business trip. “We were having breakfast at the hotel when he said, ‘Hi,’ and we exchanged business cards,” Janney remembers. About a year went by before the pair would meet again. Steve was back in China on another business trip and needed help shopping. He called Janney, one of the few people he knew who spoke English, and left a message. She helped him shop and their friendship began. “Steve is a very outgoing, friendly person,” Janney shared. “He was easy to get to know. My English wasn’t very good back then. But talking with Steve was a great way to improve it.” CONTINUED >

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | L IFE + CULTURE

CONTINUED > FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / M AGA Z I N E

At this point, both were married to other people and their relationship continued platonically through email for several more years. “We learned a lot about each other and helped each other with business-related things,” Janney recalls. One of her business trips brought her to the U.S. and they were able to visit each other in person again. “Steve is a people-person. He was always so nice,” Janney explained. “I knew I could trust him.”

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | L IFE + CULTURE

While their friendship grew stronger, other relationships did not enjoy the same good fortune. Steve’s marriage ended. “He assured me it had nothing to do with our friendship, but my own marriage had been slowly disintegrating as well,” she said. They found themselves simultaneously single. Janney did not think Steve was interested in her romantically until at one point she went on a date with someone else after her divorce. “I could

tell it hurt Steve’s feelings. That’s when I thought, ‘Hmmm…maybe there’s something here after all this time,’” she laughed. Chinese mythology teaches about yin and yang. In the perfectly balanced symbol, yin is said to be dark and feminine, while yang is light and masculine. One flows into the other… just like the light into darkness. They balance each other perfectly. So was the case with Steve and Janney. The principle of yin and yang shows that opposing forces are invaluable because each needs the other to coexist. It is commonly believed that the unconscious mind leads individuals to a specific type of partner who is theorized to fulfill the missing pieces within them. And when Steve & Janney finally started dating, the pieces quickly fell into place. In true yin and yang fashion, they found the harmony and balance that had been missing in their previous relationships. “Steve is detail oriented. I am more of a big picture person,” Janney shared. “He is a dreamer. I am a planner. He is the sail. I am the rudder.” As they delved deeper into their differences, and discovered how well their personalities complement each other, their feelings grew stronger and the relationship got more serious. In June of 2001, Janney and her young son moved to the U.S. and the couple tied the knot that August. Fast forward to today, more than 20 years later, and it’s obvious that the relationship has stood the test of time. The pagoda itself is yet another testament to their unpredictably perfect partnership. After they moved to Topeka in 2010, they decided to clean up the area behind their warehouse at SD Engineering. The lake and surrounding land had been neglected and the property was overgrown. But Steve had a vision. A long-time fan of Chinese architecture, he decided he would design and build a beautiful pagoda in honor of his wife’s heritage and place it on an island in the lake.

While researching designs, they fell in love with a pagoda they found online that was pre-made and could be shipped from China and reconstructed here. It was perfect! Steve had lots of connections, so he didn’t anticipate any problems with the shipping. Unfortunately, he discovered that because the pagoda was made of wood, it fell under different shipping regulations. Just when they thought their prized pagoda was a no go, Janney remembered she had a friend who imported furniture. They worked out the legal details and shared a shipping container to get the pieces to the U.S. A true labor of love, the pagoda took six months to construct with the help of employees Austin Blush and Adam Beason. Made of Chinese cedar, the hexagonal structure stands 20’ tall with a 15’ base featuring a built-in bench and railing. Two hand-carved marble elephants, which represent good luck in China, flank the entrance to the 42’ long bridge leading to the pagoda. The bridge was designed with a matching wood pattern featuring 888, the Chinese symbol of wealth, which echoes the design in the top section of the pagoda. The finishing touch is a wooden sign reading “Janney’s Island”. The pagoda truly is a fitting symbol of their love and commitment, not just because it represents Janney’s homeland, but because the architectural concept of a pagoda is to showcase proportionality and symmetry. It is another physical embodiment of balance and stability… yin and yang. “We never dreamed we would end up where we are,” Janney admits. “But it’s been an amazing journey.” Another love Janney brought with her from China is her love of dance. When Steve built his man cave/ warehouse on the SD Engineering property to house his antique car collection, he was sure to include a loft dance studio where Janney practices traditional Chinese folk dances.

CONTINUED > FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / M AGA Z I N E

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | L IFE + CULTURE

FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / M AGA Z I N E

C R E AT E L A S T I N G M E M OR I E S T H I S VA L E N T I N E S DAY WITH NEW T R A DI T IO N S

H OW TO | L IFE + CU LTU R E

Surprises for all ages ARTICLE BY KATHY GRAHAM | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

It can be a challenge sometimes to impress your loved ones on Valentine’s Day. Maybe you have tired of the traditional candy and flowers routine. If you’re plumb out of unique ideas, hopefully these will inspire you to start some new traditions. Try this idea for your adult valentine. Set the table in a non-traditional casual setting—the coffee table in the living room. Layer pillows and cozy blankets on the ground for comfortable seating. Use two layers of fabric for the runner, and added a handmade floral arrangement as the centerpiece. To

achieve this look, use a two-layer serving tray and layer flowers and stems to adorn the tray. Add grapes or berries to give a fuller and textured look. For a romantic ambiance, add candle sticks, and a bottle of wine. Ooh la la! For a no-hassle dinner, order out and serve your favorite takeout in the comfort of your own home. Or if you like to cook together, Chef Jasper Mirabile Jr., chef-owner of Jasper’s Restaurant in Kansas City, Missouri, provided a go-to pasta recipe perfect for a Valentine’s Day in. CONTINUED >

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Capelli d’Angelo alla Nanni INGREDIENTS • 8 oz. Barilla Capellini • 2 tsp. salted butter • 4 oz. prosciutto ham • 4 mushrooms, sliced thin • 12 oz. Jasper’s Marinara Sauce • 4 oz. heavy cream • 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes • 4 oz. Romano cheese

DIRECTIONS Cook pasta al dente according to package directions. Melt 2 tsp. butter in a saute pan over medium high heat. Add prosciutto and let it crisp, then add sliced mushrooms. Saute for 2 minutes. Stir in marinara sauce and cream, red pepper flakes, peas and Romano cheese. Bring to a light boil. Add cooked pasta and toss. Serve immediately. “Capelli d’Angelo alla Nanni is a recipe my father, Jasper Sr., created and today is Jasper’s most-requested pasta dish. In the late 1960s, he ate this pasta in a restaurant in Italy and became intrigued with it, returning to the trattoria three nights in a row, trying to decipher the ingredients. While on the surface the recipe appears simple, believe me, it took many hours for my father to perfect this dish. When he returned home, he and my mother experimented with Jasper’s chefs until he said it was perfect. Customers requested the recipe for over 50 years, but my father would never give it out. It wasn’t until several years ago that we decided to share this delicious pasta with our guests, in my father’s honor.” — Chef Jasper Mirabile Jr. What can you do for the wee ones? Surprise your children with a sweet treat table. Keep it simple with a few favorite snacks and candies, or for a more extravagant display, use fresh flowers and create a handmade centerpiece. To achieve this look, start by placing the largest greenery on the bottom layer in a circle around the table. Next layer varying types of greenery on top of the first layer in shorter widths to achieve the final look. Next add Valentine’s Day mini cupcakes, chocolate dipped Oreos, and Valentine’s Day cookies for an inviting sweet treat table. To create the easy and eye-catching Valentine’s Tree centerpiece, collect fallen branches and paint them white. Use a thrifted, repurposed white ceramic jar to assemble the branches in for the base. Use a floral foam to stabilize the branches, and place moss at the top of the jar. You can use this homemade tree for any occasion as it’s sturdy and just about anything can be hung on it. Create heart ornaments to hang on your Valentine’s Tree Centerpiece. These ornaments can be used as clue cards for a kids Valentine’s Day scavenger hunt. Instruct children to choose a heart on the tree with clues written on the back and then hunt for the treasures you have hidden around the house. Use recycled shipping boxes to create the heart base and paint them red and pink. For extra fun, and a personal touch, place the childrens’ photos on the ornaments too. Regardless of the age of your valentine, hopefully these ideas will help you to create lasting memories with those you love.

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F E B R UA RY 2 0 2 2

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in the city.

F E B R UA RY 4 T H M AY 1 ST

F E BRUA RY 18T H - 2 0 T H

SUE: The T. rex Experience // Topeka Dino Days

T HE G R EAT OVER LAN D STATIO N Step into the world of SUE the T. rex to uncover the mysteries about the life of this fearsome fossil. Get to know SUE at the Great Overland Station. This newly updated exhibit includes a one-of-a-kind narrated show and realistic computer-animated scenes. Dates: February 4 through May 1 www.topekadinodays.com

59th Topeka Home Show

STORMON T VAIL EVEN T CEN TE R Your first stop for Building, Remodeling, Construction Products and Services. Dates: Feb 18 - Feb 20, 2022 www.buildingtopeka.org/homeshow

F E BRUA RY 25T H - 2 7 T H

Arab Shrine Circus

STORMON T VAIL EVEN T CEN TE R | 7 :0 0 P M Join us Feb 25-27, 2022 to see one of America's longest running circuses! With FIVE exciting performances, there is sure to be a time we can entertain you and your whole family. SHOW TIMES: Friday Feb. 25 - 7:00PM, Saturday Feb. 26 - 2:30 & 7:30PM, Sunday Feb. 27 - 12:30 & 5:30PM www.arabshrinecircus.com

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FEB R UARY 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM / M AGA Z I N E

FE BRUARY 2 0 2 2

realty report A sample of recently sold properties in Topeka. N E I GH BO RH O O D Westwood Pl Add

LIST PRICE

SO L D P RIC E

%SO L D/ O RIG

DO M

B DRM S

B AT H S

$369,900

$330,000

89%

Capricorn Woods #3

$279,900

100%

Westboro

$265,000

$260,500

98%

Millers Glen

$380,000

$391,000

103%

Wanamaker Woods

$264,900

100%

Woodglen Sub

$259,900

$270,000

104%

Shawnee County

$359,900

$368,000

102%

Wood Valley Hills #4

$265,000

$270,000

102%

Shawnee County

$374,900

$325,000

87%

Tallgrass 2

$370,000

$390,000

105%

Shawnee Gardens

$248,000

$255,000

103%

Sterling Chase

$412,000

100%

Brookfield West

$289,500

$300,000

104%

Misty Harbor Estates #4

$399,900

$407,000

102%

Sherwood Estates #51

$430,000

100%

Brookfield #2

$270,000

$262,000

97%

Timber Ridge

$359,900

$370,000

103%

Sherwood Estates

$319,000

$290,000

91%

Cherry Creek N

$275,000

100%

Sherwood Park Sub No 5

$335,000

$315,000

94%

Capricorn Woods

$435,000

100%

Shawnee County

$395,000

$362,000

92%

Sterling Chase #1

$495,500

$500,000

101%

North Valley Farms

$395,000

$400,000

101%

Sherwood Park Sub No 5

$420,000

$384,000

91%

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

R EA LT Y R E P ORT | R EAL E STATE

PROPERTIES LISTED

AVERAGE SALE PRICE

PROPERTIES LISTED

AVERAGE SALE PRICE

PROPERTIES SOLD

AVERAGE DAYS ON MKT

PROPERTIES SOLD

AVERAGE DAYS ON MKT

Darin Stephens 785-250-7278

Brian Laird 785-670-0043

Brittany DeBarge 785-364-6205

Ian McAsey 785-851-9365

Abby Dunford 785-608-8408

Susan Rhule 785-364-6928

Sara Fox 785-364-0424

Lance Royer 785-845-6618

Margie Grace 785-305-1686

Annette Stahl 785-383-3157

Kelli Higgins 785-817-9255

Pam Trusdale 785-608-5117