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Explore The Golden City A P R I L 2 022

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

April Explore

April 2022 PUBLISHER

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

Kathy Graham | kathy.graham@citylifestyle.com

Spring symbolizes new beginnings. Nature reveals its beauty through budding trees and flowers, and the fresh temperate air invites us to spend more time outdoors. As we prepare our gardens and flowerbeds, the new life awakens within us a renewed appreciation for the beauty of our world and creates the desire to explore it. And for those of us without a green thumb, don’t worry. The local farmer’s markets are gearing up for a busy season of visitors to enjoy fresh produce from local farmers. There are a multitude of diverse spots in and around Topeka waiting to be discovered this spring. Whether it’s a new restaurant with a great patio to enjoy with friends and family, a hiking trail to take in nature and the surrounding scenery, or an escape to a scenic retreat for a relaxing staycation - our Golden City offers something for everyone. For our April Explore issue, we wanted to share with you how some of our neighbors are getting out to explore both locally and globally. We would love to hear from you about your favorite hidden gems in town and your go-to travel destinations, so drop us a line or share it with us on Facebook or Instagram. We hope that the destinations featured this month give you something to dream about and inspire you to visit in the near future. Here’s to a happy spring full of joy, sunshine, and new adventures.

STAFF PHOTOGR APHER S

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

Sue Baldani | suebaldani@yahoo.com Linda Ditch | lindaaditch@gmail.com Kelsey Huber | khuber2@gmail.com SOCIAL MEDIA COOR DINATOR

Creative Pathways & Means Partner@pathwaysmeans.com AD DESIGNER

Hunter Richie LAYOUT DESIGNER

Jayme Emery CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Kevin Johnston, Paul Versluis

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Randy Radosevich DIRECTOR OF SOCIAL MEDIA Mindy Hargesheimer

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

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

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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.

Topeka Public Schools Earns Grand Prize Magna Award for Dual Language Program Topeka Public Schools is the only PreK12 Dual Language Program in Kansas. The program integrates native English speaking students with native Spanish speaking students for academic instruction. The Dual Language Program prepares students to be bilingual and biliterate global leaders. For more information on the Dual Language Program visit topekapublicschools.net or contact the Dual Language Schools: • Scott Dual Language Magnet School • Landon Middle School • Topeka High School

624 SW 24th Street Topeka, KS 66611

APRIL 2022

inside the issue The Explore Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

18 A Farm-to-Table Meal

Lifestyle Letter

The opening of farmer’s market season makes it easy to source

City Scene

ingredients directly from growers

Business Monthly

Farmers Market

Must See

Decor Trends

Family Care

Road Trip

Realty Report

24 East Bank on Mill Creek Unplug, Unwind, and Get Away from It All

32 Make a Splash in the Kitchen Let Your Creativity Loose

36 Seeing Eye to Eye

Superior vision care for every member of the family

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Thomas Hall Allison Kure kayaking on Lake Shawnee. Many thanks to Dirty Girl Adventure for providing the kayak. Explore Compass Point Store on 800 N Kansas Ave for your outdoor adventure needs. www.dirtygirladventures.com

FO O D + B EV E R AG E

T R AV EL HO ME + DES I GN

HEA LT H + WELLN E SS

T R AV EL R EA L ESTAT E

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What we do:

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As the only independent college preparatory school in the region, Topeka Collegiate’s mission is to inspire and prepare every student for a successful future through academic excellence, active citizenship, and humanitarian ideals. To learn more, visit www.topekacollegiate.org.

APRIL 2022

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen. @SJHAZIM

@GLORIAGAYNOR

@STUDIO34PHOTOS

1: SJ Hazim sporting “The Golden City” apparel by @Clad.Astra & cladastra.com 2: Thank you Gloria Gaynor for tagging us. 3: Veteran Jeffrey Buggs at Topeka Crunch Fitness.

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

F Plan Now

C I T Y SC E N E

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AP R I L 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / TO P E KA

APRIL 2022

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses. Budz & Brews Parking Lot Party Happy Basset Brewery along with CBD American Shaman of Topeka Wanamaker will be hosting the Budz & Brews Parking Lot Party, featuring live music, food trucks, beer and cocktails, and a tie dye station on April 23rd in the parking lot between their two stores in the Villa West Shopping Center 6032 SW 29th St. Visit their websites for more information www.happybassetbrewingco.com and www.facebook.com/CBDAmericanShamanWanamaker.

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B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

The Beacon is Fully Open for Your Next Event! The Beacon is a newly renovated, historic event venue in Downtown Topeka. Renovations of the former Topeka Woman's Club building at 420 SW 9th St were completed in February, and a ribbon cutting ceremony was held March 31. The venue has 10 different spaces available for events, including a theater, ballroom, cocktail lounge, conference room and more. They can accommodate large and small gatherings. For more information, visit beacontopeka.com or call 785-409-6715.

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Overnight Boarding for Cats and Dogs at TLC Tender Loving Care Pet Nursing Hotel provides overnight boarding for cats and dogs with flare! All of our guests stay in premium luxury suites with full glass doors. Each one is custom decorated and includes premium bedding. Our team is on-site 24 hours a day to walk, play, enrich and send daily digital updates with pictures to owners. Treat Time and Cuddle Time is three times a day. The TLC experience is like no other. Visit tlcpetnursinghotel.com.

Scan to read more.

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/Topeka

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

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AP R I L 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / TO P E KA

Thinking of adding a Medicare supplement plan? For Roger and Cindy Day, it makes a diﬀerence.

The ﬁrst time we went to the doctor and showed them the Medicare supplement insurance card, we paid much less than expected. I was astonished, that had never happened before.

Call your Farm Bureau agent to learn more. Yana Ross 6028 SW 29th St., Topeka, KS Office | 785.266.9262 Mobile | 785.215.1102 AgentYana.com

Medicare Supplements insured by Members Health Insurance Company, Columbia, Tennessee. Supplements not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. or state government. This is a solicitation of insurance. A representative of Kansas Farm Bureau Health Plans or Members Health Insurance Company may contact you. Beneﬁts not provided for expenses incurred while coverage under the policy is not in force, expenses payable by Medicare, non-Medicare eligible expenses or any Medicare deductible or copayment/coinsurance or other expenses not covered under the policy. PR-H-B (2-22)

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A Farm-to-Table Meal THE OPENING OF FARMER’S MARKET SEASON MAKES IT EASY TO SOURCE INGREDIENTS DIRECT FROM THE GROWERS

April is when farm-to-table meals become more accessible with the opening of the vast Downtown Topeka Farmers Market on Saturday mornings. In the early days of spring, you’ll find baby lettuces and greens, plus radishes pulled fresh from the soil, early peas, and the first asparagus and strawberries. Stands featuring local honey, meats, eggs, jams, and baked goods help round out your meal plan. Plus, delicate blooms for table decorations. The market opens from 7:30 a.m. until noon. Plan to arrive early for the best selection, though latecomers may get deals on the produce farmers don’t want to take back with them. Bring your tote bags and cash in small bills. Also, be sure to chat with the vendors. Most are happy to share their expertise, and many have recipe ideas. We love this farm-to-table menu. Start by sipping this signature cocktail, a lightly sweet, pleasantly bitter El Ahumado, served with a small charcuterie board. Next, pass around a platter of grated radishes, crumbled goat cheese, skillet-roasted (or grilled) corn, and shaved zucchini as toppings for individual mixedgreens salad (photo on page 20). The main course is Buttermilk Brined Fried Chicken with roasted carrots drizzled with hot honey. Peach Bread Pudding topped with Salted Vanilla Caramel Cream finishes off the meal. Enjoy!

FAR M E R S M A R K E T | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

EL AHUMADO BY CORDIAL CR AF T “Spanish for Smoky” INGREDIENTS • 1 1/2 ounces Reposado tequila • 1/2 ounce Aperol • 3/4 ounce lime juice • 1/2 ounce agave nectar • 1/4 ounces Luxardo cherry syrup • 1 spritz of Mezcal DIRECTIONS 1. Lightly sweet, pleasantly bitter. The Mezcal adds just a hint of smoke to make a beautifully balanced, interesting cocktail.

ARTICLE BY LINDA DITCH PHOTOGRAPHY BY PAUL VERSLUIS

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PEACH BREAD PUDDING INGREDIENTS • 1 loaf brioche, challah or Hawaiian bread • 5 fresh peaches (or 1 1/2 pounds frozen peaches, thawed) • 2 tablespoons sugar • 2 tablespoons butter • 2 cups milk • 1 cup heavy cream • 5 eggs • 2 teaspoons cinnamon • 2 tablespoons brown sugar • 2 teaspoons vanilla DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Cut bread into 1-inch cubes. Dice peaches into medium dice. Place peaches, white sugar, and butter in saucepan. Cook until sugar is dissolved and peaches are soft, and then set aside. In a separate bowl, mix all other ingredients together. Spray a 9x13-inch baking pan and add peach mixture with brioche pieces and then add milk mixture. Bake for 45 minutes. Let cool for 20 minutes before cutting.

S A LT E D CAR AMEL SAUCE INGREDIENTS • 1 cup granulated sugar • 6 tablespoons salted butter, room temperature and cut into 6 pieces • 1/2 cup heavy cream • 1 teaspoon salt DIRECTIONS 1. Heat sugar in a medium saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly with a spatula or wooden spoon. Sugar will form clumps and eventually melt into a thick brown, amber-colored liquid as you continue to stir. Be careful not to burn. Once sugar is completely melted, immediately add the butter. Be careful in this step because the caramel will bubble rapidly when the butter is added. Stir the butter into the caramel until it is completely melted, about 2 minutes. If you notice the butter separating, remove from heat and vigorously whisk to combine it again. Very slowly drizzle in 1/2 cup of heavy cream while stirring. Allow the mixture to boil for 1 minute. Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of salt. Caramel thickens as it cools. Cover tightly and store for up to one month in the refrigerator.

FAR M E R S M A R K E T | FOOD + BE VE RAGE

BUT TERMILK BRINED FRIED CHICKEN DRIED SPICE MIX INGREDIENTS • 2 tablespoons white pepper • 1 teaspoon ground mustard • 5 teaspoons paprika • 2 teaspoons fresh black pepper • 2 tablespoons garlic powder • 2 teaspoons dried oregano • 2 teaspoons cayenne • 1 teaspoon celery salt • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme • 4 teaspoons onion powder • kosher salt BUTTERMILK BRINE INGREDIENTS • 4 cups buttermilk • 1 bunch fresh sage • 1/2 of spice mixture DREDGE INGREDIENTS • 2 cups flour • 1/2 cup cornstarch • 1 tablespoon baking powder Whole cut up chicken or 2 bone-in breasts, 2 thighs and 2 drumsticks To cook: 4 cups shortening

DIRECTIONS 1. Marinate chicken in brine for up to 24 hours. Place chicken in large Ziploc bag and pour marinade over top. Add fresh sage and store in fridge. 2. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Prepare a baking rack with a sheet pan for raw chicken and one for cooked chicken. 3. Add remaining spice mixture to flour mixture. Whisk together well. 4. Heat shortening to 350 degrees. (Preference is cast iron Dutch oven) Pull chicken out of buttermilk mixture and let drip. Coat firmly in flour mixture and set on raw chicken rack. Complete each piece of chicken. 5. Heat oil to 350 degrees. Place 2 or 3 pieces of chicken in oil and cook 3-5 minutes per side. Place on cooked chicken rack. Put cooked chicken in oven to complete cooking for 15 minutes. 6. Let chicken rest for 5-10 minutes before serving! Recipes by Sammie Laforce Cocktail recipe by Brandon Burke AP R I L 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / TO P E KA

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East Bank on Mill Creek UNPLUG, UNWIND, AND GET AWAY FROM IT ALL

ARTICLE BY KELSEY HUBER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KEVIN JOHNSTON, INNOVATIVE MEDIA CREATORS

In east-central Kansas, you’ll find the largest continuous area of tallgrass prairie left in the world - the Flint Hills. It extends nearly 200 miles from the Nebraska border in the north to Oklahoma in the south and is 80 miles wide at its widest point (just south of the Kansas River). Home to over 800 different kinds of wildflowers, the Flint Hills were created because the flint they contain is an extremely hard mineral impervious to millions of years of erosion. Over the last hundred and fifty years, as the surrounding areas and their tallgrasses were slowly but surely tilled under in the name of agriculture, the stubborn flint refused to fall victim to the farmers’ tools and so, miraculously, the tallgrass prairie remains. Today, the buffalo roam (in protected areas) and some deer and antelope still play, but thanks to the flint, much of the prairie exists - beautiful, wild, and unchanged.

M UST SE E | TR AVEL

Just 20 minutes from Topeka, high atop one of those flint hills, sits a lodge overlooking the wild Kansas prairie with its rolling hills and tall grasses. Grasses, that after eons of waving with the wind, bowing under heavy snows, and stretching for the sun, seem oblivious to time. And almost as if the prairie winds whispered it into existence, East Bank on Mill Creek sits watching over this serene setting. A sanctuary on the prairie, East Bank on Mill Creek is an event space and resort like no other. Families looking to get away from it all, can unplug and reconnect at the same time. It’s the perfect place for family reunions, weddings, anniversaries, birthday parties, and baby/wedding showers. And while it’s ideal for family fun, East Bank on Mill Creek was also designed for corporate events

like strategy sessions, team building, and retreats. There’s so much to offer, let’s break it down by taking a tour of this beautiful property. Guests arrive through the private gated entrance and park in front of the lodge. The lodge is a twostory building waiting patiently on the banks of Mill Creek (yes, the east bank) to welcome her guests from the city. Wood, stone, and iron incorporated into the decor create a rustic, yet homey vibe throughout the lodge. An expanse of large windows along the back wall of the lodge not only affords a close-up view of the tree-lined creek behind it but also of the picturesque sunsets every night. Four bedrooms on the upper floor each offer a king bed and private bathroom. The adjoining hallway spans the width of the lodge and overlooks the spacious

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chef’s kitchen and gathering room complete with pool table, TV, and comfy couches and chairs arranged for relaxing and easy conversation. Directly across from the lodge entrance is the pool. An airy pavilion on the south end is the perfect place for a family cookout, complete with a large stone bar, two TV screens, seating, and a barbecue grill. On the north end, an enclosed air-conditioned cabana offers a welcome respite from the Kansas summer heat, along with a restroom and an exercise room. Guests can lounge on a pool chaise under a shady umbrella, read a book, or just take a well-deserved nap. The pool is heated and remains open from the end of March until the end of October. Just up the hill is the conference center, which features a large conference table, Wi-Fi, three TVs, and breakout areas, making it ideal for corporate events. Keep walking up the hill and you’ll see the amphitheater and events center. This former horse stable has been reimagined and is now the perfect venue for weddings and receptions. Four large glass garage doors can be raised to allow guests to spill onto the open-air patio and amphitheater area, while the flat roof above the events center serves as an outdoor dance floor! Twinkling lights strung from the large, old, stately trees create a magical atmosphere at night. Venture to the very top of the hill and you’ll find The Cabins. Glamping anyone? Three large buildings house four cabins each. In front of each building is a large fire pit just waiting for the telling of late-night scary stories, or toasting up some s’mores before bedtime. The cabins offer ample room for a variety of guests, from couples on a weekend getaway to rambunctious family reunions. Just a few steps from the cabins is one of

M UST SE E | TR AVEL

two stocked fishing ponds on the property. Fishing, hiking, swimming…oh, and we forgot to mention the tennis and basketball courts. Throw in the fresh country air and the kids won’t be able to keep their eyes open around the bonfire. East Bank has plenty to offer, but if you feel the need to roam (like the buffalo), the quaint little town of St. Mary’s is just ten minutes away. Try out Froggy’s family restaurant (get the bread pudding), Sugar Creek Country Store, and

charming boutiques. Prairiefire Winery and Alma Creamery (famous for their cheese) are other nearby attractions. Looking for an excuse to check out East Bank on Mill Creek? Make reservations for their Murder Mystery Dinner Theater on April 16th. Or if you’re a whiskey aficionado, plan to attend the Bourbon Tasting on April 29th. To learn more about this hideaway on the hill, or get tickets to these fun events, visit eastbankonmillcreek.com or call 785-256-6567.

AP R I L 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / TO P E KA

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D E C OR T R E N D S | HOM E + DE S I GN

ARTICLE BY KELSEY HUBER

M a ke a Spla sh in the K itchen Let Your Creativity Loose

When redesigning a kitchen, there are only a handful of options to personalize the room and make it your own. Paint color, countertops, cabinets, and backsplashes. And of these, the backsplash is by far the best opportunity for creativity. Like many decorative things, backsplashes started as a practical solution to an everyday problem. Early backsplashes were much smaller than today’s full walls of beautiful tile. They were only four inches tall and usually found only behind the sink or stove. They kept water, grease splatters, bubbling sauces, and steam from damaging the walls in these areas. Eventually, the short backsplash was extended horizontally and ran all the way around the kitchen above the countertop. Fast forward to today and backsplashes have become one of the most beautiful focal points in kitchen design. From porcelain and ceramic tile to natural stone to metal and glass, the only limit is your imagination. 1. Designers have taken the once humble backsplash to new heights in this kitchen featuring an expansive counter-to-ceiling marble slab. The swirls of black and grey add upscale elegance making this wall the perfect marriage of practicality and beauty. 2. Subway tile is a classic look that will never go out of style, but today’s homes get an update with larger glass tiles. And if you like the look of clean, bright white but want just a touch of originality, change it up with contrasting grout. Subway tile is available in a wide variety of colors too so you can spice things up if you like. 3. Break away from smooth and shiny glass and marble and try a little texture. This multi-color stone combines the rustic charm and warmth of stone with a fun color pattern that elevates the backsplash to backdrop status. 4. Backsplashes can take any kitchen from ordinary to ooh-la-la. You can even create a work of art within your backsplash in the area above your stove. Use contrasting or complementary tiles to create a frame. Use a larger decorative tile in the middle. Don’t be afraid to break the rules! Backsplashes are one of the few places in kitchen design that allow for personality and individual style to shine through, so have a little fun.

AP R I L 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / TO P E KA

“I don’t want to be a burden.” Have you ever made that statement? Many of us feel that way and yet we don’t know how to bring up the topic of our final wishes. Advance care planning is the process of thinking about, discussing, and writing down your future healthcare wishes. It includes a conversation with your physician and family and completing documents that communicate those wishes. Midland Care wants to help and invite you to a Midland Care healthcare decisions event. Saturday, April 9, 2022 10 a.m. – Noon Midland Care - The Compass Center 2134 SW Westport Drive Topeka, KS 66614 Please RSVP to Monica Gottschamer 785-232-2044 mgottschamer@midlandcc.org

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785.267.6120 | jaredfoxdds.com

AP R I L 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / TO P E KA

Seeing Eye to Eye Taking care of our eye health involves more than just getting or updating a prescription every so often. Having regular yearly eye exams is an important part of our overall healthcare. “There are many ocular problems that don't necessarily have symptoms,” says optometrist Dr. Susan Rollenhagen, with Family Eye Care of Topeka. “Glaucoma is one of those things. It's a very serious sight-threatening disease.” By examining the eyes, eye doctors can also see signs of other illnesses, such as diabetes, and on very rare occasions, cancer and different types of tumors. “Your eyes are really a direct connection to the brain, and if your vision is good, it doesn't necessarily mean that your eyes are healthy,” she says. Family Eye Care of Topeka has been a trusted provider of optometry services and vision care products in the Topeka community since 1999. With its advanced diagnostic technology and vision correction products, patients can be assured that all their vision and eyecare needs will be thoroughly and thoughtfully addressed. In addition to the issues mentioned above, the practice also diagnoses and corrects common eye problems such as astigmatism, farsightedness, nearsightedness, and aging eyes. They can also treat computer vision syndrome, dry eye syndrome, inflammation of the eyelid and eyelashes and more. Having worn glasses and contacts from a young age, Dr. Rollenhagen became interested in health professions while in high school. After shadowing a few different practitioners, she felt that becoming an optometrist was the best fit.

FAM ILY CA R E | HEA LTH + W E LLNE S S

SUPERIOR VISION CARE FOR EVERY MEMBER OF THE FAMILY ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI PHOTOGRAPHY BY THOMAS HALL

Dr. Jessica Mai & Dr. Susan Rollenhagen

Her partner in the practice, Dr. Jessica Mai, originally intended to go into business. “In college, I quickly learned that my business classes were not nearly as interesting as math and science, so I decided to pursue a health profession. I started doing volunteer work with the Society for the Blind, and I just fell in love with helping people enhance and protect their vision.” Before having children, Dr. Mai also took part in multiple mission trips to provide eye care to people in Central America. “They were fun and a lot of work, but also very rewarding,” she says. The two women had known each other for many years before partnering up. “I graduated in 1999 and worked in a few different offices,” says Dr. Rollenhagen. “I joined Family Eye Care of Topeka in 2009 and became a partner. I love that it's small and very patient-focused.” By January of 2021, Dr. Mai had been practicing in Topeka for about 14 years. “I once worked in an office where Susan was an optometrist, and we've known each other for quite some time.” When Dr. Rollenhagen’s previous partner decided to retire, she asked Dr. Mai to join her as a partner. “I really like the small family atmosphere, and how we really treat our patients like family,” says Dr. Mai. “Plus, to have a chance to partner with Susan was one of the big things that brought me here.” CONTINUED > AP R I L 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / TO P E KA

The two see patients ranging in age from pediatric to geriatric, which necessitates a diverse set of skills and services. “We treat many medical conditions and refer those who need surgery to someone here in town,” says Dr. Rollenhagen. Family Eye Care of Topeka also really prides itself on offering custom made, quality eyewear. “It’s a really big part of what we do,” says Dr. Mai. “We've found that a lot of patients come in with glasses that aren't correctly made or correctly fit for them, and they're also not meeting safety standards. Here, we provide hands-on service to ensure the best fit and quality.” The office manager and head optician, Lori, along with Kylie, another optician, help patients select glasses and choose the best frames and materials that will best suit their prescriptions and needs. Their insurance specialist, Janie, also assists patients with contact lens training and handles some testing prior to the doctor visit. Sylvia also assists the doctors and gets patients ready to see them, and then there’s Linda, who handles the front desk like a pro. Comfort is also a focus of the practice. “We don't have a lot of office-type furniture, but instead comfortable chairs and a couch,” says Dr. Rollenhagen. “We even have a little kids’ playroom.” A recent development the women are really excited about is partnering with a new nonprofit in town called Project 2 Restore, which will be a shelter for survivors of human trafficking. “This program will help women recover and get back on their feet, and we're going to provide glasses and eye exams to help out.” says Dr. Rollenhagen. One nice bonus they both love about their careers is how it allows them to be there for their families. “My husband and I have three amazing kids, a new son-in-law, and a beautiful granddaughter," says Dr. Rollenhagen. "A large part of my life is centered around them, and I feel very blessed to have a career I love that allows me to spend quality time with my family." Dr. Mai has been married for 18 years and has two boys, ages 11 and 8. “They are very active and we try to keep up with them. We like to bike as a family and often take bike riding trips.” To find out more about the services offered, go to visionsource-topeka.com/ or call (785) 271-8989.

“We don’t have a lot of office-type furniture, but instead comfortable chairs and a couch,” says Dr.Rollenhagen. “We even have a little kids’ playroom.”

FAM ILY CA R E | HEA LTH + W E LLNE S S

Spring!

“A great way to unwind”

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

CELEBRATE WITH US JULY 2ND!

• Independent Living • Assisted Living • Home Plus • Skilled Nursing • Memory Care • Short-Term Care • Rehabilitation

AldersgateVillage.org 7220 Southwest Asbury Drive | Topeka, KS

(785) 478-9440 AP R I L 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / TO P E KA

Visit Music City

Getaway to Nashville

and ‘Write Your Own Music City Story’

Write your own music story. That’s exactly what the chefs, artists, historians, musicians and impassioned locals of Nashville want visitors to do as they dive into this culturally diverse and oh-so-friendly city. Our team of local lifestyle fanatics at City Lifestyle are thrilled to collaborate with Visit Music City to present a customized visitor’s guide and exclusive GIVEAWAY* to this city rich in experiences that only Nashville can give. As the largest city in Tennessee, Nashville boasts an impressive array of destinations, including luxurious hotels such as the Sheraton Grand in the heart of downtown, the centuries-old landmark and winery, Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery, and Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery, which carries an incredible story of origination and bottles a remarkable 1860 family recipe that made Tennessee Whiskey world famous. Three things Nashville is known for are hot chicken, barbecue, and meat & three restaurants. Plus, Nashville has amassed a lot of attention over the last 10 years for its exquisite food scene, with several James Beard award-winning chefs and an incredible independent restaurant scene. For the art lovers at heart, Nashville’s ever-growing arts scene is as diverse and approachable as its music scene. Music history venues such as the new National Museum of African American Music will complement your old favorite Frist Art Museum, Cheekwood Estate & Gardens, and Grand Ole Opry experiences. Last but not least is the music scene. Spend one night on Broadway hopping bar to bar, sit orchestra-side at the Schermerhorn Symphony Center, tour and take in a show at the 130-year-old Ryman Auditorium, then experience a songwriter’s night at The Bluebird or The Listening Room Cafe.

Scan the code to ENTER to WIN at @citylifestyle on Instagram!

R OA D T R IP | TR AVEL

“Nashville’s ever-growing arts scene is as diverse and approachable as its music scene. Murals, street art, public art, art galleries, and museums are all a part of experiencing Nashville’s visual art offerings.”

WIN a 3-night Weekend GETAWAY to Nashville! City Lifestyle and Visit Music City are giving one lucky winner and a guest the chance to explore Music City with a uniquely curated hospitality itinerary! With three days filled with complimentary hotel, food, entertainment and shopping experiences, the only thing you need to do is arrange transportation to and from Nashville. This giveaway will close on April 30, 2022. The trip must be taken by the end of 2022. For a chance to win, follow @citylifestyle and @visitmusiccity on Instagram and tag unlimited friends and family on the April 1st giveaway post for additional entries to win.

$3,200 MUSIC CITY GETAWAY FOR 2 INCLUDES: • • • • • •

3-nights at Sheraton Grand Nashville Downtown Dinner at Drusie & Darr Tour at Belle Meade Historic Site & Winery Tour & Tasting at Green Brier Distillery $500 Gift Card to Nordstrom in The Mall at Green Hills VIP Star Card – an attraction pass good for two people to experience the best attractions in Nashville • Music City Gift Bag *Star Card is not available to the public, this is an exclusive offering in collaboration with Visit Music City.

AP R I L 2 0 2 2 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / TO P E KA

AP RIL 2 0 2 2

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

LIST PRICE

S O L D P RIC E

%SO L D/ O RIG

DO M

B DRM S

B AT H S

Shawnee County

$274,900

$270,000

98%

Shawnee County

$297,000

$330,021

111%

West Hills #2

$405,000

$435,000

107%

Sherwood Park

$299,900

100%

Colly Creek #9

$255,000

$259,500

102%

Shawnee Meadows

$249,900

$255,000

102%

Sherwood Village

$349,900

$347,000

99%

Timber Ridge

$370,000

$370,812

100%

Lauren's Bay Estates

$369,400

$375,000

102%

Westboro

$329,500

$298,500

91%

Sherwood Estates #59

$382,500

$395,000

103%

Prairie Trace #11

$260,000

$270,000

104%

South Pointe Bay #2

$695,000

$700,000

101%

Shawnee County

$249,900

$255,000

102%

Jackson County

$399,900

$395,000

99%

Lauren's Bay

$554,900

$551,225

99%

Capricorn Woods #2

$399,950

$425,000

106%

Lauren's Bay Estates

$550,000

100%

Deerbrook

$339,900

$372,500

110%

Sherwood Estates

$259,950

$300,000

115%

Sherwood Estates #8

$389,900

$385,000

99%

Arlington Heights

$249,900

$256,000

102%

Sherwood Estates #7

$355,000

$345,000

97%

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

(785) 251-0717 www.stoneandstory.com

This is Kinzie

She is 3 and loves all things Peppa Pig.

The Matthews' family came to Stone & Story Real Estate Group in desperate need to find a larger home before their family expanded. Terrified of this unknown market, because they had worked with another company and placed 5+ offers on homes that they never won. Defeated, they took one last try and decided to hire Stone & Story Real Estate Group.

1 offer and 33 days later...

They found their dream home, had a few hiccups with the home inspection. We worked through the issues and the Mathews now have a safe and wonderful home.