Topeka, KS May 2024

Lad ies and Lavender in our Golden City

4420 SW LINCOLNSHIRE ROAD

THIS EXCEPTIONAL PROPERTY IS OFFERED AT $764,000 by Cathy

Lutz of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices

First Realtors

Enjoy waterfront, luxury living in prestigious Laurens Bay. Updated to provide modern elegance and enhanced livability with expansive windows offering picturesque sunset views. You’ll love the four main floor bedrooms, each generously sized with ample closet storage. The chef’s kitchen boasts pro-style appliances including a Dacor gas range top, warming drawer, and Subzero refrigerator/freezer. The finished walkout basement offers two conforming bedrooms, two full baths, office, and rec room with fully furnished kitchenette. As perfect for family gatherings as it is for large-scale entertaining, the backyard features a 2023 built inground pool with retractable cover overlooking the neighborhood lake and adjoining an expansive paver patio with outdoor fireplace. You’ll appreciate the three extraheight garage bays; the fourth garage in the lower level is ideal for hobbyists. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to make every day a vacation getaway with this stunning SW Topeka home.

Cathy Lutz Associate Broker/Realtor

Smart - Strong - SupportiveSuccessful Ladies

In celebration of the remarkable achievements and resilience of women in our Golden City, we've curated a collection of articles that highlight their voices, experiences, and impact across various fields and walks of life.

I'm in awe of how the women in my life are master multitaskers, effortlessly juggling an array of roles with finesse and grace. From being dedicated professionals to nurturing mothers, supportive partners, car ing friends, and active community members, women wear many hats in their daily lives, each one adding depth and complexity to their character.

From inspiring stories of entrepreneurship to personal health struggles and the road to healing to reflective pieces of introspection and wisdom, this issue is dedicated to honoring the strength, talent, and contributions of the women in our community.

We hope that the stories shared within these pages inspire you, provoke thought, and spark meaningful conversations about the important role women play in shaping our society and our future.

Happy Mother’s Day to all!

KATHY GRAHAM, EDITOR @TOPEKALIFESTYLE

May 2024

PUBLISHER

Brian Rodehorst | brian.rodehorst@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Kathy Graham | kathy.graham@citylifestyle.com

STAFF WRITERS

Sue Baldani | suebaldani@yahoo.com

Kelsey Huber | khuber2@gmail.com

Amanda Knowland | amandalanum@gmail.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS

Kristol Kumar | kristol@kristolkumarphotograpy.com

Lindsey Wagers | info@wagersphotography.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Sara Schultz | saraschultzstyling@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Angie Hockett

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER

Janie Jones

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

AD DESIGNER Laura Paige

LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster

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

Local Adoption Lawyer Earns Prestigious Honor

Adoption Services & Law Group is proud to announce the selection of Lisa M. Williams-McCallum as a Fellow of the Academy. This honor is in recognition of her outstanding work and dedication to the field of adoption law. Lisa is a testament to her professionalism, integrity, and commitment to serving clients with legal assistance in adoption matters. Her dedication has earned her the respect and admiration of her peers and clients alike. Visit adoptiongroup.com

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Convenient and Reliable "Mobile" Mower Repair

Just in time for mowing season, Jacob Outcalt, makes house calls!! Say goodbye to the hassle of hauling your mower to a repair shop! Jacob has been repairing all brands and types of lawn mowers, chainsaws, trimmers, leaf blowers, tillers, generators, snow blowers, and small utility tractors for 17 years and brings this service right to your doorstep. He now offers new products to sell too. Call 785.304.4162 to get your equipment running it's best.

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“REFINISHING”

BEAUTIFUL • DURABLE • AFFORDABLE

BEFORE AFTER

MICHAEL AND KAREN

Weight Loss Center

We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.

Want to suggest a monthly pick?

Merit Weight Loss meritweightloss.com | 785.329.6282

Stormont Vail Weight Management Center stormontvail.org/specialtycare/weight-management | 785.354.9591

Dr. Lisa Goularte, DO kutopeka.com | 785.295.8877

Heartland Health & Wellness heartlandhealthtopeka.com | 785.286.7069

Dr. Tague's Center for Nutrition & Preventive Medicine - Topeka Clinic taguenutrition.com | 785.273.4443

Lash Studio

Del Real Luxe LLC (Brows By Crystal) facebook.com/DelRealLuxeLLC | 785.517.8022

GHAZAL BEAUTY LOUNGE facebook.com/ghazalbeautylounge | 785.506.2682

Perfect Brow Bar perfectbrowbar.com | 785.228.9400

Amazing Lash Studio amazinglashstudio.com | 785.470.3108

Onyx Salon and Wellness Spa (Downtown) onyxsalons.com | 785.329.6646

DEAR YOUNGER ME

ARTICLE BY AMANDA KNOWLAND

BY KRISTOL KUMAR PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTOGRAPHY

A Local Entrepreneur’s Letter to Her Younger Self

Dear Younger April,

As I sit down to write this letter to you, a flood of memories and experiences rushes through my mind, each shaping the person you will become. If only I could reach back through time and whisper words of wisdom and encouragement into your eager, uncertain ears.

There is so much I want to share with you. First and foremost, I want to tell you to embrace kindness with every fiber of your being. Live and love like Jesus.

Growing up in a household filled with love and faith, you already understand the importance of treating others with compassion and respect. Your capacity for kindness will be your greatest strength, forging meaningful connections and fostering a sense of community wherever you go. One day, you will pass on your heart for kindness to your own children.

Lean on your faith in times of joy and in moments of darkness. Know that you are never alone, and that there is a higher purpose guiding your steps. Your faith will sustain you, comfort you, and inspire you to reach out to others with love and understanding.

As you journey through the years, you will encounter challenges that test your resilience and perseverance. Remember that every obstacle is an opportunity for growth. Do not be afraid to stumble, fall, or make mistakes. It is through these trials that you will discover your inner strength and resilience. Embrace adversity as a teacher and emerge from each setback stronger and more resilient than before.

You will enjoy a long career as a teacher. These memories and relationships are invaluable. And when that path has run its course, you will transition to a career in client relations that will open new doors and present exciting opportunities for personal and professional growth. You will become the owner of your own Farm Bureau Financial Services agency. Surrounding yourself with a supportive husband, quality friends, and a rockstar team of women will help you figure it out. In fact, your small but mighty team helps run your office with integrity and first-class customer service.

And just as you lean on others who lift you up and inspire you, stay open to opportunities to help others in your community. You don’t know it yet, but you’re going to help young girls by providing feminine products to local schools. Topeka will rally behind you in this endeavor, supporting your Sister Goods organization with countless donations.

Above all, remember to cherish the relationships you build along the way. Your love for connecting with others, for building bridges and forging bonds, will enrich your life in ways you cannot yet imagine. Nurture those connections, seek out kindred spirits, and surround yourself with those who lift you up and inspire you to be your best self.

While I have your attention, remember these things: You are enough! Don’t burn bridges. Find the people that hold you accountable, yet love you unconditionally. Get out and move a little each day. Read your Bible every day. Get up and get your day started. And flex your organization muscle – don’t let mail pile up!

Younger April, as you embark on this journey called life, know that you are loved, valued, and destined for extraordinary things. Trust in yourself, believe in your dreams, and never lose sight of the kindness and faith that define you. The road ahead may be winding and uncertain, but know that I am here, cheering you on every step of the way.

With love and admiration, April

THREADS OF LOVE

A Story of Fashion and Role Reversals

ARTICLE BY KELSEY HUBER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDSEY WAGERS/WAGERS PHOTOGRAPHY

Moms and daughters share a special bond and sometimes that bond is so strong and shines so brightly that onlookers can’t help but notice. Such is the case with Monica Rivera-Martinez and her two daughters, Jessica and Christina. “My mom was a single mom. Many nights she worked the second or third shift to make ends meet,” said Jessica, the eldest daughter. “We all

“I am so grateful to my daughters for taking care of me.”

- Monica Rivera-Martinez

had to pitch in to make it work.” Growing up, Monica leaned on Jessica to take care of her little sister and the three formed an unbreakable bond. “It was us against the world,” Jessica said.

Monica is a cancer patient at Cotton O’Neil Cancer Center. Her Nurse Practitioner asked her if she would be interested in modeling for the Couture for Cancer fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. “It was way out of her comfort zone,” Jessica said, “but she did it for us and for all of the other cancer patients and survivors. She is a giver.”

The runway models for the Couture for Cancer event, all cancer survivors, gathered for a photo shoot. It was there, while volunteering, that Topeka City Lifestyle editor Kathy Graham got the inspiration for this article. The models got hair and makeup done and got to pick an outfit to be photographed in.

She noticed the chemistry that Jessica and Christina had with their mother when helping her choose her clothing. The three women exuded such a wonderful energy that she knew they would be perfect for this story. Monica agreed (with a little encouragement from her daughters) and they scheduled another photo shoot at Madison Avenue Boutique for a little mother-daughter fashion fun.

Moms and daughters are notorious for their differing opinions on fashion. When we’re young, we rely on our moms to dress us with little input of our own, but as we mature, we develop our own sense of style. Some young ladies push back declaring they will only wear dresses or conversely, they declare all-out war against dresses. Others whine and cry about sock seams, itchy tags, or crooked underwear. Ugly ultimatums and magnificent meltdowns ensue.

“Growing up, if Mom set out an outfit, you wore it,” Jessica laughed. “There was no arguing or back talk. Sometimes I would bribe Christina by letting her wear one of my shirts to keep her happy, but overall, we didn’t make a big fuss.” So what was it like when the tables were turned and the girls were in charge of helping to dress their mother?

“Oh, she had the final say, for sure,” Christina confirmed. But Monica surprised everyone with how agreeable she was to expanding her wardrobe. “Mom leans toward neutrals and more conservative styles,” Christina said. “But we helped her choose some bolder pieces and colorful accessories. It was fun making Mom the center of attention. I think she really enjoyed the role reversal that day.”

“We knew if we got her out it would be good for her,” said Jessica. Not surprisingly, their hunch was correct. “They have filled my days with light, laughter, and fun,” Monica said. “I am so grateful to my daughters for taking care of me.”

Women like Monica are an inspiration to all of usstrong, brave, selfless, and beautiful both inside and out. As mothers, we are all models for our children, especially our daughters. Thank you, Monica, for being a wonderful model both on the runway and in real life. When it comes to love…you wear it well.

NURTURING BONDS

THE HEALING RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN PATIENT AND DOCTOR

When wife and mother Jessica MortonWilliams first felt a lump in her armpit in October 2022, she decided to also check her breasts and discovered a tiny bump. She wasn’t too concerned because earlier in the year she had had a mammogram, and nothing showed. Plus, she was only 42, and cancer didn’t run in her family.

To be on the safe side, she saw her doctor. After examining her, she sent Jessica to the Cotton O’Neil Women’s Center. “I had another mammogram that October, and it showed something, so then I went for a biopsy in November.”

ARTICLE BY SUE BALDANI

PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDSEY

WAGERS/ WAGERS PHOTOGRAPHY

“DR. HASHMI HAS THIS ENERGY AND CONNECTION TO HIS PATIENTS. HE’S NOT THERE FOR THE MONEY. HE GENUINELY CARES, AND THAT JUST TOUCHES MY HEART.”

On November 16, Jessica was diagnosed with stage two breast cancer. “I was in shock for a few days, but then I just prayed,” she says.

Shortly after, she was sent to the Cotton O’Neil Cancer Center, where she would come to meet the Center’s comprehensive team. From the moment she met oncologist, Dr. Mehmood Hashmi, he and the staff exuded complete positivity.

“It fed into me being so happy go lucky and thriving throughout my cancer journey,” says Jessica. “Dr. Hashmi was also so knowledgeable about everything.”

Dr. Hashmi was inspired to become an oncologist when he saw how hard cancer patients were fighting for their lives. “Our patients are going through a very rough time, so we want to make sure that we’re there for them when they need us,” he says. “It’s a long journey, and the main thing is to walk along with them and make it as easy and comfortable as possible.”

He adds, “Cancer treatments are highly complex, so they need their oncologists and teams to navigate them through the whole process.”

Jessica, he says, is a very positive person. “Whenever I entered the exam room or while taking her to chemo, she was always smiling. It’s very important for patients to be in a positive frame of mind like that.”

Adds Jessica, “Dr. Hashmi has this energy and connection to his patients. He’s not there for the money. He genuinely cares, and that just touches my heart.”

It’s been a long road for Jessica, who has gone through surgery, chemotherapy and radiation, but she’s thankful for the support of her husband Antwaun and children. “Antwaun took me to every appointment,” she says. “He was there with me every step of the way.”

As an IT security specialist, he also helped her set up a Facebook page, Make Pink Lemonade, which is all about people who are thriving, not just with cancer, but other challenges as well. She’s also starting an Etsy page soon.

Jessica now takes a chemotherapy pill every day and will do so for two years. She also alternates visits every month with Dr. Hashmi and his nurse practitioner, Robin McKay, who she thinks is wonderful too.

When working with cancer patients, Dr. Hashmi believes medical providers need to have a lot of compassion. They also have to understand the impact cancer has on patients’ families and lifestyles. “It’s not just about the cancer, it’s about their everyday lives and getting them back to living that life,” he says.

ARTICLE BY AMANDA KNOWLAND PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDSEY WAGERS/WAGERS PHOTOGRAPHY

Uncovering Beauty, Dreams, and the

Scent of Success

At the west edge of rural Topeka lies a hidden gem known as Somerset Lavender. In the summer, you can find rows of the beautiful lavender plants, with their signature purple flowers, nestled within the nearly 10 acres of land owned by Joe and Teryl Studebaker. Despite the serene picture, the journey to establish this farm has been a test of faith, patience, and perseverance.

The couple’s introduction to this showy herb came nearly ten years ago, while redesigning the front landscape of their previous home. They purchased three lavender plants simply because they were on sale.

“After planting it and seeing it bloom the next few years, it became one of my favorite plants in the bed,” Teryl recalls.

When the couple moved to their current home and purchased two empty adjacent lots, they had nearly 10 acres that they did not want to sit empty.

With the help of two seasoned mentors, Teryl’s entrepreneurial spirit, and Joe’s unwavering support, they laid the foundation for Somerset Lavender.

Unlike the plant itself – which is said to have calming properties – starting the farm was a stressful learning process. In 2017, they purchased 80 plants, all of which died before they were able to get them in the ground.

In 2019, they tried again. Of those 50 plants, 35 survived.

Determined to succeed, Teryl found the United States Lavender Growers Association, connecting with other lavender farmers in the region and across the nation. With the knowledge and support of their new network, the Studebakers began to grow the farm. Over the next five years, they planted nearly 1,300 additional plants, but experienced a devastating 90% loss due to a hard freeze in the Fall of 2022. Refusing to surrender the dream, Joe and Teryl planted 500 more the following Spring, and will add 500 more in June 2024.

As they uncover the lavender for the 2024 summer season, the Studebakers’ dream of providing a unique and beautiful place for visitors is beginning to take shape. By next summer, they plan to have a gift shop built and mature plants available for the community to enjoy. Within five years, they hope to be one of the state’s top agritourism locations.

“We truly want to contribute to the economic growth of our community and feel we have a great vision,” Teryl says of the unique experience they will provide. “We want to give visitors an escape from the busyness – a place they can unwind and appreciate God’s creation. We’ve had so much encouragement from our family and friends to stay the course. This is our gift back to all who have supported us.”

The Studebakers also dream of building an event venue, providing glamping spaces, and hosting lavender festivals and other immersive experiences.

When they’re ready to retire, the couple says they would love for one of their children to take over the farm and carry on the legacy. As the 9th generation of the famed Studebaker automobile family, building a family business is part of Joe’s DNA.

“I come from a long line of engineers and entrepreneurs. From cars to boats, the Studebaker family has made their mark,” Joe says. “But what truly excites me is working hard alongside my wife on the land God gave us. I hope one day my children will at least appreciate what we’ve built, and at most, carry it on!”

Somerset Lavender

You can find Somerset Lavender products at area farmer’s markets, online at SomersetKS.com , and at The HIVE, 4034 SW Huntoon. Utilizing lavender’s many beneficial properties, Teryl currently hand-makes 21 different all-natural products, including seven scents of Goat’s Milk Soap, Lavender sugar, Lavender sunscreen, teas, lip balm, and more.

Dr. Susan Rollenhagen

Dr. Jessica Mai

L a d i e s , a r e y o u

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1107 SW Gage Blvd.

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Mon-Fri 8-1 & 2-5

realty report

Envista Eats & Beats @ Evergy Plaza

Evergy Plaza Downtown @ 630 S Kansas Ave. Topeka, KS | 6:00 PM - 9:30 PM

Where live music and excellence meet. Bringing top notch bands to the heart of downtown for the benefit of the community. Make sure to come prepared with an appetite and be ready to rock. Opens at 6pm and the headliner starts at 7:15pm. Presented by Envista Credit Union, sponsored by KSNT and Cumulus Media.

MAY 17TH

TPAC presents The Phil Collins Experience

TPAC @ 214 SE 8th Ave, Topeka, KS | 7:30 PM

The role of Phil Collins is performed to perfection by Terry Adams Jr. A British born front man will make you forget that he’s not Phil! Terry Adams Jr brings the look, the sound, the emotion, the energy. The true feel of Phil Collins! Backed by his world class 12-piece band complete with a sensational horn section and backup singers.

MAY 31ST-JUNE 15TH

Topeka Civic Theatre Presents Ken Ludwig's The Gods of Comedy

TCT @ 3028 SW 8th Ave., Topeka, KS

SYNOPSIS -  Daphne and Ralph are young classics professors who have just made a discovery that’s sure to turn them into academic superstars. But something goes disastrously wrong, and Daphne cries out in panic, “Save me, gods of ancient Greece!”…and the gods appear! A pair of screwball deities encounters the carnal complexity of college coeds, campus capers, and conspicuous consumption.

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April Kelsey

April Kelsey

5825 SW 29th St Ste 150 Topeka, KS Office | 785.272.2132

5825 SW 29th St , Ste 150

Mobile | 785.817.1688

aprilkelsey.com

Topeka, KS Office | 785.272.2132

Mobile | 785.817.1688

AprilKelsey.com

This is one of my constant “go to” DIY projects. It’s fast, it’s easy and it looks oh so professional. I love displaying photos, but I don’t necessarily love a lot of photo frames. These canvases create a crisp, clean look... All in about 30 minutes! Let’s get started.

DIY Photo To Canvas In A Snap

ARTICLE BY ANGI HOCKETT | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

STEP 1:

First things first, grab your supplies.

• Photo on photo paper

• 1 ½ inch thick wrapped canvas

• Mod Podge in Matte finish

• Black spray paint in Satin finish

• Clear spray paint in Satin finish

• 4 inch or 6 inch foam paint roller

• Small paint tray

Place your photo on the clean, dry canvas to make sure it fits correctly. Trim if necessary.

STEP 2:

Spray paint the canvas sides and a little of the top with the black spray paint. It is VERY important to let this dry completely.

STEP 3:

Using your foam roller, roll Mod Podge over the entire top of the canvas. Center your photo on top of the wet Mod Podge. Smooth the photo with your hands starting in the middle and pushing out toward the edges

STEP 4:

Roll a thin even layer of Mod Podge over your photo. This is a little scary “painting” over your photo, but I promise it will dry clear. Once it is covered with a thin layer start at one side and roll straight rows from side to side, in the same direction, as to avoid roller lines once it dries. If you see small bubbles in the wet Mod Podge, it is too thick. Thin it out by taking an almost dry roller over the photo to lift some of the Mod Podge. Repeat until the bubbles are gone. Let this dry completely.

STEP 5:

Spray the top and sides of the entire canvas and photo with satin spray paint. Dry…Hang….High Five. Congratulations on your new Photo Canvas!

This same technique can be used on 4x4 tiles of your choice to create custom coasters. You will add a bit of Peel and Stick Cork or felt to the back of the tile so the coaster doesn’t scratch. Cheers!

SIP N SAVOR

FOOD AND DRINK GUIDE IN THE GOLDEN CITY

Tiki Taco Shack

Pizagels

Paisano’s Ristorante

Herman’s Meat & Smokehouse

Globe Indian Cuisine

The Weather Room

The Pennant

Iron Rail Brewery

TaCo (Westridge Mall)

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