Topeka, KS June 2025

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Gears, Shears, Luxury Steers in the Golden City's Gentlemen Issue

TRIBUTE TO GENTLEMEN

If you’ve ever wondered where we get our content, it’s from you—normal, everyday Topeka citizens! I wanted to give a shoutout to some Topeka fellows who have contributed to the stories in this month’s magazine. Gentlemen, thank you for your editorial nominations and introductions! I thought it would be fun to give you a behindthe-scenes peek into the exchanges that led to this month's collection of stories.

First, I'd like to thank Terry Knowles, who reached out to my editorial team with a remarkable story about his neighbor, Richard Alexander. At 89 years old, "Alex" has been cycling for 77 years all over the U.S.— and even in Russia.

Second, I was visiting my good friend Eric Kueser, owner of CBD American Shaman on Wanamaker, and he told me about a young barber next door. After a quick introduction to Pavin Cole at The Mill Barbershop, I realized I knew his father from my years as a soccer coach in Topeka. After a quick look at Pavin's new barbershop, I knew we needed to share his story.

Third, after a conversation with Sole Reason's Jerry Hudgins last year, he connected me with Mike Surey of Lewis Toyota, who then invited me to attend a Big Brothers Big Sisters event—an organization he’s been involved with for a long time. The experience was eye-opening. So when my editorial team said they wanted to do another vehicle story, I knew I had to involve Mike and a vehicle from Lewis Toyota.

Fourthly, we’ve been fortunate enough to meet people from all over the country. From time to time, we feel so moved that we want to share those adventures and experiences with our readers. We hope you enjoy learning about a journey of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail and to Montana, where the hit TV series “Yellowstone” and its prequels “1883” and “1923” were set.

On behalf of the amazing staff at Topeka City Lifestyle Magazine, we honor you—our beloved readers. It's the amazing people in Topeka, many of whom you may never meet personally, who make our community so rich. We love sharing their stories with you and, in doing so, stitching our community just a little more tightly together. If you enjoy “meeting” the people in our Golden City on the pages of our magazine, please feel free to leave a thoughtful comment on our Google page or on social media.

June 2025

PUBLISHER

Brian Rodehorst | brian.rodehorst@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Kathy Graham | kathy.graham@citylifestyle.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS

Kristol Kumar | kristol@kristolkumar.com

Lindsey Wagers | info@wagersphotography.com

Create Uplift | info@createuplift.com

STAFF WRITERS

Amanda Knowland | amandalanum@gmail.com

Kelsey Huber | khuber2@gmail.com

Linda Ditch | lindaaditch@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Nicci Lavine, Chelsea Lyn Agro, Terry Knowles

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders

AD DESIGNER Mary Albers

LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

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

CoolVu Auto Spa inside Mad Viking Customs

CoolVu Auto Spa offers premium automotive detailing, window tinting, and ceramic coating services to keep your vehicle looking its best. Our expert team uses industry-leading products and techniques to enhance, protect, and restore your car’s appearance. From deep interior cleaning to advanced ceramic coatings and window tint, we provide top-tier care for every ride. Experience the perfect blend of luxury and protection. Veteran Owned & Operated  www. lookandfeelcool.com | 785.329.5091 | 805 N Kansas Ave - NOTO

Topeka Scarecrows - Our New Professional Hockey Team

Pro Hockey is back in Topeka at the Stormont Vail Events Center this winter. Topeka will host 28 home games beginning on October 17th with opening night with games running through April of 2026. Season Tickets are on sale now and ticket information can be found by visiting TopekaScarecrows.com or by visiting stormontvaileventscenter.com

Photo: Don Lewis (L) and Chris Bryniarski (R) owners of the Topeka Scarecrows.

The right agent is the one who can best communicate your home’s unique value to make sure you get the most out of it. See why working with a Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices network agent makes all the difference at CathyLutz.com

cathylutz.com / (785)925-1939 / 2858 Southwest Villa West Drive, Topeka, KS

Cuts, SHARP STRONG ROOTS

A new generation honors tradition while creating something entirely fresh.

BY

For Pavin Cole, a single haircut shifted the trajectory of his life.

When he was 19 years old, Pavin’s best friend, Greg, invited him to a barbershop in McPherson, Kansas. Until that moment, Pavin had never stepped foot inside a barbershop, nor did he fully understand what barbers really did. But as he sat in the chair at Fox and Ash Barbershop, talking with co-owner Andrew, something sparked.

“I instantly became more curious and excited to learn about barbering as I talked with Andrew,” Pavin recalls.

Andrew Schwartz, barber and co-owner of Fox and Ash, encouraged Pavin to go to barber school and promised to mentor him through the process.

That first appointment marked a turning point.

Immediately after leaving the shop, Pavin talked to his parents about applying to Midwest Barber College in Topeka. He enrolled, kept in touch with Andrew weekly, and even had his mentor cheering him on during his barber board exams.

Now, after seven years in the industry, Pavin’s not just a skilled barber, he’s the proud owner of The Mill Barbershop, a modern, revitalized version of Topeka’s longtime staple, The Hair Mill.

His journey from first haircut to ownership may have unfolded faster than expected, but it was no accident. On day one of barber college, Pavin listed “own a barbershop” as one of his top five life goals. When Scott Fulton, another mentor and former owner of The Hair Mill, offered Pavin the chance to take over the business at the end of 2024, he knew it was the right time.

“I had become comfortable with barbering and my career path had become stagnant,” he recalls. “One of my life mottos is ‘if you are comfortable, you are not growing’.”

Pavin remodeled and rebranded the shop with a modern yet rustic feel: muted green walls, new lighting, and Husky toolbox stations to accommodate eight barbers.

CONTINUED >

A glowing exterior sign welcomes clients to the transformed space. But while the look has changed, the heart of the barbershop remains rooted in tradition.

“The Hair Mill is one of the oldest shops in Topeka. I still value and uphold that tradition,” Pavin says. “The Mill is about community, comfort, and professionalism. We have clients from kids to elders, and we have a barber for everyone.”

It’s not just the atmosphere that’s fresh - the Mill is dialed into modern grooming trends, too. Social media drives much of the evolution in men’s style, and Pavin and his team are constantly studying what’s new.

“We’ve seen a rise in textured crops, mullets, and high skin fades. We talk through trends as a team and push each other to perfect them,” he explains.

The biggest trend Pavin is seeing in the shop now is the desire for an elevated experience.

“Men aren’t just wanting a haircut anymore; they are wanting pampered and a detailed service,” Pavin says. “My barbers will go above and beyond to pay attention to details and give the client a quality and relaxing haircut.”

Another growing trend? Grooming for grooms. Pavin has provided services for wedding parties and believes more grooms should consider treating themselves before the big day.

Every service at The Mill is elevated - hot lather neck shaves with every haircut, steam towels during shaves, straight razor work and attention to detail set the shop apart.

“There’s a difference between getting a haircut and getting a service at The Mill,” Pavin says.

His leadership style emphasizes enthusiasm, professionalism, and leading from the front.

“It’s no longer just about me,” he says. “My goal is to get my newer barbers filled with clients and focus on their success as a barber.”

As trends change and the industry grows, one thing remains the same: Pavin’s passion for barbering and building a space where people don’t just get a haircut, they feel at home.

Located in: Villa West Shopping Center @ 6039 SW 29th St.  Phone: 785.273.0303

Cool Savings

ANDINGLIFESTYLE FORTOPEKACYC

A LOCAL 89 YEAR OLD’S LIFETIME OF COMMITMENT D E M

I S T

ARTICLE BY TERRY KNOWLES | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CREATE UPLIFT
“Alex is an inspiration to all of us who enjoy cycling.”

Topekan Richard “Alex” Alexander has developed a rigid lifestyle that literally defies comprehension. At 89, Alex is pain free, devoid of any prescribed medicine, relies on a unique meatless diet, and adheres to a demanding workout routine. Alex cycles 18 miles-a-day (he is projected to complete over 6,200 miles for 2025). For Alex, every day begins promptly at 4:00am!

The foundation of Alex’s daily routine is his passion and lifetime commitment to cycling.

A retired bank regulator, Alex has been cycling for 77 years, dating back to 1948

when his father purchased Alex’s first bike -- a single-speed J.C. Higgins from Sears & Roebuck. His cycling escapades set him apart from all others who enjoy cycling. For example, on three separate occasions, he cycled 725 miles (Topeka to Hamilton, Ohio) simply to attend his high school reunions….feats that amazed his former schoolmates. Each trip required six days across five states (KS, MO, IL, IN, & OH) and included daylong rides up to 140 miles. Alex completed those cycling ventures for his 35th, 45th, and 50th high school reunions.

CYCLING IN RUSSIA

While serving in the U.S. Navy, Alex was assigned to a three-year tour of duty with the American Embassy in Moscow where he enjoyed his regular routine by cycling around Gorky Park, through Red Square, and out to the Embassy’s dacha (country house) located some 25 miles outside Moscow. Cycling rules in Russia and the U.S. are very different, such as Russia prohibits cyclists making left turns. Alex vividly recalls committing this traffic violation, and being abruptly stopped by a “Moscow militiaman,” as Russian police officers are called. “Thankfully, I only received a stern warning and was allowed to proceed back to the embassy," Alex remembers.

“Moscow was an interesting assignment, and I took full advantage to cycle on a regular basis,” Alex said. “As a member of the U.S. embassy staff, I enjoyed diplomatic immunity and always felt protected by that ‘special status’ when outside the office .”  Would he cycle the Russia countryside today given the current risk of arrest, wrongful conviction, and imprisonment in dire conditions? “Absolutely,” Alex responded without hesitation.

CYCLING HIS AGE EVERY BIRTHDAY

His epic birthday rides have taken various forms and routes as he aged. On his 81st birthday, he cycled from Topeka to Leonardville, KS where he enjoyed a country dinner to partially restore the 5,000 calories burned enroute.

In 2016, after being the victim of a hitand-run while cycling in east Topeka, Alex decided future birthday rides would be when vehicular traffic was safely lighter. Thus, for his 85th birthday, he launched his ride at one minute after midnight, and finished shortly before the heavy morning traffic.

During the past twenty years, Alex has only been in a hospital on two

occasions, both the result of bicycle accidents.  “ Cycling is supposed to be a healthy outlet, but it can be hazardous due to careless and distracted motorists,” he explained .

GRAVEL CYCLING IN KANSAS

In search of safer cycling, Alex began riding on rural gravel roads surrounding Topeka. “Tractors, farm equipment, and pickups on gravel roads are far less threatening than speeding or distracted drivers on city paved roads,” he explained.

Now as a gravel-cycling enthusiast, he is one of the oldest cyclists ever to compete in the Unbound Gravel , a grueling endurance ride on gravel roads and cow paths through Kansas’ Flint Hills surrounding Emporia. The annual event, formally the Dirty Kanza , now referred to as Unbound Gravel , is considered the world’s premiere gravel event, with distances of 25, 50, 100, 200, and 350 miles.

Unbound Gravel annually attracts over 5,000 cyclists, including riders from each of the fifty U.S. states and some 40 foreign countries!  Alex is listed among those passionate and gritty cyclists who dare to take on and conquer Kansas’ Flint Hills.

Alex will once again be in the field of elite cyclists this June for the Unbound Gravel challenge. “There is something special about this annual event,” he says. “And, to be the oldest cyclist competing in this worldly event is a distinct honor.”

“INSPIRATION TO ALL OF US.”

Chris Armstrong, manager of Capp’s Bike Shop in Topeka, describes Alex as “one of a kind” when it comes to cycling. “Alex is meticulous and very specific about his bikes and cycling equipment. He is willing to take on any challenge,” Armstrong stated.  “Alex is an inspiration to all of us who enjoy the sport of cycling here in Topeka.”

THE ADVENTURE RETURNS

The Toyota Land Cruiser is often featured in adventure television programs navigating dusty African roads or maneuvering through rainforests. Although the auto company discontinued the model in 2021, its cult following prompted them to reintroduce it. The 2025 version is a four-wheel-drive hybrid vehicle designed to take you anywhere, from rural gravel roads to the tight parking spaces of downtown Topeka. Lewis Toyota's general manager Mike Surey is currently driving the premium style Land Cruiser

in color Underground with a black interior. He says, "I've been driving a truck for essentially the last ten years, pretty consistently. At one point in time, I was kind of a Jeep guy, too. The Land Cruiser is the best of both worlds. The seats are slightly more comfortable, and the leather is a little more subtle and luxurious. It handles fantastically. Then, of course, you still have your utilitarian space in the back, which is great for me when I go golfing or transporting whatever the kids need."

Some comfort highlights of the Land Cruiser include a 12.3-inch multimedia touchscreen, a heads-up display, a console cool box that keeps your drinks cold while you drive, and heated/ventilated front seats.  When headed out on an adventure, this SUV has a 60/40 split rear seat for storage, and the roof can hold 770 pounds of gear. If tech is a necessity, there is also a Qi wireless charger and USB-C charging ports.

Surey adds, "This is the best handling vehicle I've ever been in. When we had those 17 inches of snow this winter, I was cruising around town with no problems whatsoever. It was phenomenal."

To test drive a Land Cruiser, visit Lewis Toyota of Topeka at 2951 SW Fairlawn Road or get more info at LewisToyota.com.

Toyota 2025 Land Cruiser Specs

• Styles: Land Cruiser 1958 and premium Land Cruiser

• Engine: i-FORCE MAX 2.4-liter 4-cylinder Hybrid Turbocharged, Double Overhead Cam (DOHC) 16-Valve, D-4S Fuel Injection

• Horsepower: 326 hp @ 6000 rpm

• Torque: 465 lb.-ft.

• Full-time 4-wheel-drive

• Rear and center locking differentials

• Multi-Terrain Select with Crawl Control

• Stabilizer disconnect mechanism

• 2400W power outlet

• Three Drive Modes: Normal, Sport, and Eco

• MPG: 22 city, 25 highway, 23 combined

• Maximum Towing Weight: 6,000 lbs.

• Fuel Capacity: 17.9 gal.

• Blind spot monitor

• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto

• Available moon roof

• Pricing: Land Cruiser1958 $56,000 base. Premium Land Cruiser $61,470 base.

The Toyota Land Cruiser is Back and Ready to Explore Any Terrain

realty report

The bluegrass state of Kentucky with the Appalachian Mountains is indisputably known as the Mecca of bourbon and the location of America’s only Bourbon Trail.

The Kentucky Bourbon Trail, established in 1999, is dotted with a total of 37 distilleries scattered throughout the regions of Louisville, Western Kentucky, Bardstown, Lexington and North Kentucky.

For bourbon aficionados and road trip lovers alike, the trail promises scenic country drives, historic architecture, and an abundance of restaurants and tasting rooms with some distilleries spanning more than 100 miles apart.

The most popular bourbon distillery locations one might expect to see along the trail are: Angel’s Envy, Maker’s Mark, Michter’s, Wild Turkey, Heaven Hill, Lux Row, Old Forester, Four Roses, Evan Williams, Bulleit, and Jim Beam.

Within each distillery and on its grounds, bourbon lovers can expect to find a variety of bourbon price points, flavor profiles, distilling and aging techniques, and historical points of interest. Each location offers a variety of tour options: some focusing on the chemistry of bourbon distillation, the art of tasting, the barrel charring process, or the rich (and checkered) history of bourbon’s origins.

A TOUR OF AMERICA'S ONLY BOURBON TRAIL

TOASTING

One constant seems to remain—most Kentucky distilleries cannot broach the topic of their favorite drink without also offering a glimpse of its history. The name “bourbon” hails from the original Bourbon County, which was a region carved from a portion of the Fayette County of Virginia in 1785. The county, which belonged to the then-brand-new state of Kentucky, was named in honor of the French House of Bourbon to show gratitude to King Louis XVI for his vital assistance during the American Revolutionary War.

Prior to its exodus from the region, loads of white oak barrels cut from the forests of Arkansas were first branded with the Bourbon County label. The county logo branded on the barrels soon gave way to its shorthand references: Bourbon. The rest is, quite literally, history.

THE

The oldest operational distillery in Kentucky is Maker’s Mark, which began distilling in 1805 and has since been recognized as a National Historic Landmark. In 1964, a Congressional Resolution declared bourbon to be an indigenous product of the United States. This distinction renders bourbon as the official American Spirit. To be recognized as a bourbon, a spirit must meet specific and strict requirements set forth by law. In fact, bourbon distillation marks one of America’s very first examples of a consumer protection law with the establishment of the “Bottled-in-Bond” Act in 1897 (The Bottled-in-Bond designation have bourbon standards which supersede those of single-malt Scotch).

All bourbon starts as what distillers refer to as White Lightning—an uncolored, unaged, and unflavored whiskey. During the distillation process, the liquid must not supersede a proof of 160, and must not supersede a proof of 125 at the time it’s poured into barrels to begin the aging process. All bourbon must be aged in new, charred, white oak barrels for a minimum of two years before it is finally bottled at 80 proof or higher. No other dyes or flavors may be introduced into the distilling or aging process if a bourbon is to retain its namesake.

Even though 95% of bourbon is distilled in Kentucky, bourbon does not need to be distilled in the state to be considered authentic. Most bourbon was historically made in Kentucky due to its geography. The rich source of limestone in Kentucky earth acts as a natural aquifer, purifying the water and removing the more peaty flavors one would find in spirits distilled with earthier water quality, such as Scotch. The varied temperatures, humidity levels, and weather patterns in the Kentucky region cause the white oak barrels to contrast and swell. This unique aging process gives bourbon its signature amber hue as well as its sweet and dynamic flavor.

While the tour itinerary is flexible enough to have many starting points, the official “start” of the trail can be found at the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Welcome Center located at the Frazier Museum on Historic Whiskey Row in downtown Louisville. The destinations along the trail can be planned a number of ways: by distillery, by region, or by organized tour itinerary. Some distillery locations are packed as tightly as an 8-mile radius, with the average tour lasting about 90 minutes.

For those who want to travel off the beaten path, several famous distilleries in the area do not appear on the official Kentucky Bourbon Trail list. One of the more famous of these is the Buffalo Trace Distillery, responsible for distilling bourbon of that name as well as the more rare and sought-after bottles of Blanton’s and E.H. Taylor. The Buffalo Trace distillery is located on a national landmark and offers free tastings, as well as Ghost tours for those who are interested in a different kind of spirit.

For a complete list of distilleries, tour schedules, tour booking details, and frequently asked questions, visit KYBourbonTrail.com

SO YOU WANT TO BE A COWBOY

DISCOVER THE WHIMSY OF THE WEST AT PAWS UP MONTANA

Favorably referred to as the “Last Best Place” and the “Treasure State,” Montana has captured the hearts of cinematic cowboys like Taylor Sheridan and Harrison Ford and inspired the television series, “Yellowstone” and its prequels, “1883” and “1923.” Though fictional, they’ve reminded America of its deeply-rooted spirit for adventure and the simple yet rugged way of life that we all crave. Whether its the backdrop of jagged, snowcapped peaks or the endless golden pastures that are peppered with livestock, this Rocky Mountain soil is a breeding ground for dreamers and doers, and the people who call it home are no strangers to the ritual of ranch life.

So, you want to be a cowboy? Slipping on some leather and having a little hide in your hat are good ways to start, but visiting a resort that brings the best of this life to the forefront, while also embracing modern luxury, is the experience of a lifetime.

Paws Up Montana sprawls the distance of 37,000 private acres of historic estateland, which houses a working ranch and 10 miles of Blackfoot river. Personalization is key—a divine selection of cuisine for the foodies, awe-inspiring activities for the adrenaline seekers, and world-class lodging that tickles every fancy from stargazing glamping, to timber-style family dwellings, to the uniquely designed green “o hauses” that invite the outside world in.

CHELSEA LYN AGRO PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

WHERE TO STAY

WHAT TO DO

To change your attitude, you need a change in altitude. Gain some speed or turn up the adrenaline level with ATV tours, electric biking, mountain biking, go-karts, paintball, rappelling down Lookout Rock or whitewater rafting down the Blackfoot River. Indulge in the western art of living with archery, fly-fishing, hiking or sporting clays. For those who want to immerse themselves in the language of horses, there are horse-related adventures such as lessons, grooming or feeding, horse-whispering workshops or organized trails rides. Riders can also enjoy cattle drives that bring you back to yesteryear—driving a herd of cattle across the famed landscape—and bear witness to mustang gentling, where the Equestrian Manager communicates with a wild horse through body language and tone of voice. Skyline Aerial Adventure Park is another notable warm-weather activity, taking guests on two high-ropes courses.

Luxury Homes are categorized into preference-based properties that boast the thrill of wilderness living. For larger families and multigenerational groups, consider the Wilderness Estates. At 3,250-square-feet, these estates sleep up to eight guests and feature three large suites with private baths. The Big Timber Homes are available in one-to-three bedroom options and come ornamented with fire places and private decks. The Meadow Homes are 1,100-square-foot single-story homes that sleep up to four guests, situated amid a pastoral and treed setting. For an extra nod of perfection, choose one of the luxury homes that comes equipped with a private tent—ideal for anyone traveling with children (or adults who beckon back their childhood!).

For a more primitive experience, Glamping Homes offer the right amount of canvas to create a close-to-nature experience. Available mid-May through mid-October, choose from river settings to creeksides, bluffs or cliffs. Each tent is adorned with something unique—a copper tub, a picturesque view of Lewis and Clark’s famous Lookout Rock and Western-chic furniture throughout. Zip down the windows to allow for the cool nightly breeze, yet enjoy the modern convenience of electricity. Each campsite has a dining pavilion. And don’t miss the s’mores boards around the communal fire pit, offered by your own s’moresologist—yes, you read that right, and yea, it’s a thing.

Lastly, but certainly not least, are the state-of-theart accommodations of the Green O hauses. This portion of the property is completely curated for those 21 years of age and older. It’s a resort within a resort, a hidden pearl in an oyster of experience. The Tree Haus is elevated 23 feet in the air and offers unparalleled forest views. The Green Haus includes a skylight above the bed for an unmatched view of pluck-em-from-thesky stars. The Round Haus has curved, floor-to-ceiling windows that offer 180-degree panoramic views. Both the Green and Round Hauses are dog friendly, too, so Fido can rest in the lap of luxury. The Light Haus is illuminated by skylights and unique glass design.

DRINK & DINE

Montana’s best kept secret? Our hideaway chefs, making waves from the Montana wilderness. Chef Brandon Cunningham, Executive Chef at the Green O, is a James Beard Award finalist whose creations at the Social Haus are highly curated through an 8-course tasting menu. Other highly trained and talented chefs like Chef Brett Edlund, Chef Ben Scott, Executive Pastry Chef Krystle Swenson, and Sunny Jin, the General Manager of Food and Beverage, are part of the intricate patchwork of the culinary experience at Pomp, Trough, Shed, Camp and the notable Chuck Wagon—a summertime treat where guests can ride a hay wagon along the banks of the Blackfoot River for an Old West-inspired chuck wagon dinner. The menu ranges from all-natural chicken and Tomahawk ribeye to fresh vegetables grilled over an open flame campfire.

HOW TO GET HERE

Airport: Missoula Montana Airport (MSO) Airport transfers from Missoula are complimentary for guests and all luxury home and Green O accommodations come with a Lexus luxury SUV for transportation use on property.

events

JUNE 13TH - 14TH

Edgar Allen Poe Speakeasy

Stormont Vail Events Center

The Edgar Allan Poe Speakeasy is a chilling cocktail experience in Topeka that brings four of his stories off the page and onto the stage as told through the Poe Historians while pairing them with four classic cocktails. Tickets: https://www.edgarallanpoebar.com/tickets

JUNE 20TH - 22ND

Topeka Renaissance Festival

The Woodshed Event Center @ 1901 N. Kansas Ave, Topeka, KS | 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Jousting, Living History, Pirates Vikings & Fantasy, Axe & Arrow Games, Highland Games, Art Contest, And More...  A STEP BACK IN TIME!  Visit @topekarenfest on Instagram

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