TopCity Rise Aug/Sept 2023 Issue #10

August

Issue 10

A WORD FROM THE TOPCITY RISE EDITOR

Fostering a strong and interconnected community is vital for safeguarding our economy, and a powerful way to achieve this is by championing small businesses and nonprofits. These entities serve as the backbone of our economy, playing a pivotal role in generating employment opportunities, driving economic growth, and supporting the city of Topeka. This is our mission. It is both our mission and privilege to celebrate the remarkable local businesses and nonprofits in Topeka.

When we lend our support to small businesses and nonprofits, we are investing in the prosperity of our local economy and contributing to a robust and sustainable future for all. By patronizing local businesses, we keep financial resources circulating within our community, leading to job creation and enhanced economic stimulation.

We exist because of the generosity of our business community. Our community sponsors make our efforts possible by giving to support our efforts in spreading the word about our small business community and nonprofits paving the way for a brighter tomorrow.

So, let us unite and work hand in hand to nurture our community's growth by wholeheartedly supporting small businesses and nonprofits.

Topeka Food Truck Festival: Where

Foodie’s Live The Dream!

Get ready to mark your calendars and join in the excitement of the inaugural Topeka Food Truck Festival! On Sunday, August 27, from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm, the West Lake Shelter House and Amphitheater in Gage Park will come alive with a celebration of local businesses, entertainers, and vendors. This is not just an ordinary event; it's a testament to the vibrant spirit and flavor of Topeka!

The festival committee, consisting of Poppin Squeeze, Poppin Minis, The Burger Bus, Flavor Wagon_785, and Stumpy's Smoked Cheese, has poured their hearts and souls into planning this spectacular event. Since August 2022, they have been working tirelessly to create an unforgettable experience that will become an annual tradition for our community.

Picture this: a sun-soaked day in Topeka's most beautiful park, filled with mouthwatering aromas and the sound of laughter and live music. The Topeka Food Truck Festival is all about supporting local. From the moment you step foot in the festival grounds, you'll be immersed in a truly local experience, surrounded by Topeka and Shawnee County businesses, entertainers, and vendors.

Prepare your taste buds for an epic culinary adventure! A mouthwatering lineup of food trucks awaits you, featuring beloved favorites like Poppin Squeeze, The Burger Bus, The Sugar Bus, Poppin Minis, Stumpy's, Flavor Wagon, and so many more. From refreshing lemonades and gourmet burgers to delectable ice cream treats and savory barbeque, there's something to satisfy every craving.

But it's not just about the food! The festival is a haven for families, with a plethora of exciting activities for all ages. Let your imagination run wild with free activities like a photo booth, balloon artist, face painter, SCPR Rec and Roll Van, and even a foam pit that guarantees endless fun. And don't forget the live entertainment! The Paradise Band will take the stage, filling the air with infectious rhythms and melodies that will have you dancing and singing along. Plus, My Gym will be there to get the little ones moving with energetic dance sessions.

In the true spirit of community, the festival will also host a charity basket raffle to support the Boys and Girls Club. With prizes like the "Family Day in Gage Park" basket, which includes tickets to the Topeka Zoo, Discovery Center, Mini Train, and Carousel, and a variety of food truck-themed baskets, you'll have the chance to win incredible prizes while making a difference in the lives of local children.

As if all that wasn't enough, the festival's location in Gage Park means you'll be just steps away from fantastic attractions like Animal Land, the Gage Park Mini Train, the Gage Park Carousel, the Topeka Zoo, and the Discovery Center. Make it a day to remember by exploring these nearby gems!

With both indoor and outdoor seating available, you'll have the perfect spot to indulge in delectable food, enjoy the live entertainment, and create lasting memories with family and friends. Remember, seating is limited, so bringing your own chair is highly recommended.

The countdown is on for the inaugural Topeka Food Truck Festival. Don't miss your chance to support local businesses, savor mouthwatering cuisine, and immerse yourself in a family-friendly extravaganza. It's time to come together and celebrate the vibrant spirit of Topeka in the most delicious way possible!

Boxer Q BBQ

Indulge in delectable BBQ from a premium meat food truck. They serve smoky brisket, pork, ribs, and chicken, but you better rush for the popular brisket and ribs. Enjoy daily fresh sides like cheesy potatoes, baked beans,

Rosi’s Food

Experience the true essence of Mexican cuisine with mouthwatering tamales, flavorful rice, and authentic beans. The fruit cups offer a refreshing touch. This spot flawlessly captures the essence of traditional Mexican flavors, a must-visit for an authentic culinary journey.

The Burger Bus

Absolutely a must-try – The Farmhouse at Burger Bus is a culinary gem. Don't miss the delectable burger adorned with pulled pork, egg, and sensational BBQ sauce. And if a burger isn't your fancy, their Pulled Pork Grilled Cheese is equally exceptional. Indulge soon, you won't regret it!

Food Truck Lineup:

• Poppin Squeeze

• The Burger Bus

• The Sugar Bus

• Poppin Minis

• Stumpy’s

• Flavor Wagon

• Kona Ice

• Tod’s BBQ

• Hook and Que

• JLG Mexi-Q

• Pineapple Dream

• Manila Snow Cone Co.

• Southern Star

Poppin Squeeze

The food truck offers a delightful experience with its swift service and mouthwatering options. From classic kettle corn flavors like regular, caramel, snickerdoodle, to refreshing lemonade, limeade, and flavorful smoothies. A perfect blend of freshness and speed, making every visit a treat.

Flavor Wagon 785

Craft your perfect meal with their signature build-yourown power bowl, catering to meat lovers, vegans, and vegetarians. Select 1 protein and 2 veggies atop a bed of grains. Don't miss the enticing Street Tacos and Da Mac dishes – a flavorful journey you must embark on!

• Boxer Q BBQ

• Dj’s Catering

• Cooking with Mike

• Rosi’s Tamales

• Grounded on the Go

Diverse Styles & Local Charm: Topeka’s Newest Boutique

Strolling down Kansas Ave in downtown Topeka just got even more exciting with the opening of a new boutique called "The Mix." Founded by four talented and determined women – Danielle Byers, Loni Foster, Lanelle Dinkel, and Jennifer Foster – this boutique brings curated items and a mix of different styles to cater to a wide range of clientele, from young adults and beyond.

The idea of starting The Mix was not something any of them had initially dreamed of. Rather, it was a fun concept that they collectively felt Topeka needed. With three of the owners being Topeka natives and Loni being a transplant who has been a part of the community since 1999, they all share a deep love for the city and its people. Being mothers and having diverse backgrounds, the quartet has come together to offer a fresh and diverse shopping experience to the local community.

Pictured: Danielle Byers, Loni Foster, Lanelle Dinkel, and Jennifer Foster Photographer: Lisa Schwarz

The name "The Mix" perfectly reflects the essence of this boutique – a mix of different ages, styles, and ideas all brought together in one place. Their goal is to serve everyone's needs, and to do that with a hand curated unique selection, The Mix will offer an array of items, including apparel like jeans, sweaters, dresses, tops, and casual/lounge wear, as well as jewelry, bags, home deEcor, gifts, candles and so much more.

One of the aspects that make The Mix unique is their commitment to supporting locally made products. Over the course of the next year, they hope to collaborate with local and Kansas vendors. Not only to promote the thriving local business community but also offer customers a chance to find unique, handmade items that resonate with the spirit of the region.

The owners of The Mix are not only enthusiastic about providing an exceptional shopping experience but also about creating a community hub. They have plans to host various events and vendor pop-ups, such as personal shopping experiences, monthly ladies' nights, and charity nights to give back to local causes. These events will not only attract customers but also foster a sense of togetherness and support within the community.

The decision to become entrepreneurs was serendipitous for these four women, and they are excited to embark on this new adventure. The Mix provides a onestop shop for those looking for clothing, accessories, and home decor, making it a convenient destination for all shoppers. Their dedication to creating a space that caters to everyone in terms of sizes, price points, and variety of items reflects their commitment to inclusivity and accessibility.

Photos: 5 Senses Photography

Photo: 5 Senses

Photography

Starting a new business is no easy task, but the support from their families and the strength of being four partners sharing the workload have made the journey worthwhile. Their passion for supporting local charities further highlights their commitment to giving back to the community that has embraced them.

Supporting The Mix is not just about shopping; it's about investing in the local economy and encouraging small businesses to thrive. By shopping locally, customers help create jobs, contribute to the growth of the community, and foster a sense of pride in their city. Additionally, shopping at The Mix allows patrons to discover unique and one-of-a-kind items that cannot be found in big-box stores, making every purchase special and meaningful.

The Mix is more than just a boutique; it's a testament to the power of community, collaboration, and the belief that great things can happen when people with diverse backgrounds and ideas come together. By supporting this new small business, the community of Topeka is not only investing in their own city's growth but also contributing to a unique shopping experience that will enhance the efforts to make downtown Topeka a vibrant and cherished destination for all.

Photos: 5 Senses

Photography

We

by lifting others.

~ Robert Ingersoll

The Hive of Creativity: The Community is Buzzing

In the heart of Topeka, Kansas, a new business has emerged, known as The Hive. This endeavor is spearheaded by the passionate and talented owner, Chris Page. Her journey into the world of creativity began at a young age with her mom, who was a true "creator," sparking a love for all things artistic in Chris. Little did she know that later in her youth her mother would secretly enroll her in floral design school, which set her on a path to discovering her true passion.

Growing up on a farm, Chris developed a strong work ethic, which she carried into her adult life. At the young age of 19, she opened her first flower shop in Nortonville, and eventually, she moved to Topeka when she married her love, Wayne, 24 years ago. Together, they have built a beautiful family with two adult children, Hannah and

The name "The Hive" was thought of by Chris's friend, Autumn, who learned about Chris's inspiring story and business dream, during a trip to Florida. The name was a homage to Chris's mother, fondly known as Queen Bee by her grandchildren. Just like her mom, Chris possesses a diverse range of talents, and she loves learning new crafts and attempting various media.

With The Hive, Chris wanted to create a space where people could come together and enjoy the process of crafting, irrespective of their skill level. It is all about the joy of creation, whether with friends, in moments of relaxation, or when learning new skills. Crafting provides a way for people to unwind, relieve stress, and create something meaningful.

The fall lineup of workshops at The Hive is brimming with excitement and creativity. From chunky blankets and personalized candle scents to macrameE items and wreaths, the offerings are catered to a wide range of interests. They even have workshops on Cricut machines, flower arranging, and a special homemade Christmas series.

Beyond workshops, The Hive welcomes parties for all ages, offering delightful experiences for bachelorettes, bridal showers, DIY brides, birthday celebrations, and even work retreats and teambuilding events. The store is open to all, with drop-ins encouraged during business hours to indulge in quick and fun 30-minute crafts, perfect for a lunch hour escape.

Chris's vision for The Hive extends beyond workshops and crafting into a gift shop setting. She has already introduced the Baby Bee line and carries various kitchen and household items. She has begun to carry items to create gift baskets for all ages and wants the store to feature even more products from local artisans. In her heart, she hopes to broaden the workshops through collaborations with talented artists willing to share their skills.

As this new business grows, Chris is still figuring out how The Hive fits into the community, and she is open to suggestions and is always looking for ways to contribute and collaborate.

Chris really has a heart for community. During the Covid pandemic, she created the porch tour, which was a huge success that raised funds to provide Christmas to those in need. Despite a setback due to a foot injury, Chris is hopeful that the porch tour might return, driven by her desire to help underprivileged children and those facing challenges.

Besides running The Hive, Chris and Wayne are both licensed REALTORS with Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Wostal Realty, contribute to the community in multiple ways through their real estate business as well.

Above all, The Hive is about building a supportive and inclusive community through crafting and creating. Chris has aimed to make everyone feel accomplished, loved, and encouraged after each workshop. She also has kits for those who can't attend in person and makes sure to have take-home kits available with all the supplies, detailed instructions, and step-bystep videos, making creativity accessible to everyone, even those outside of Topeka.

With The Hive buzzing with creativity, Chris Page has found her calling in bringing people together through the joy of crafting, one artistic endeavor at a time. Make sure you check out The Hive’s creative calendar and see which class you’re ready to dive into. Make sure you give The Hive a follow on social! If you have any questions, please reach out to:

Chris@thehiveworkshops.com

Book your day for creativity now!

https://www.thehiveworkshops.com/

Empowering Change: The 35th Annual Women of Excellence Awards

YWCA Northeast Kansas will proudly present the 35th Annual Women of Excellence Awards, where the focus is on honoring remarkable women who are working tirelessly for growth, equality, education, and leaving a lasting legacy for future generations. The organization firmly believes in a world where women community pillars, showcasing their boundless brilliance. This event serves as an opportunity to celebrate the trailblazers who have made a significant impact and continue to inspire positive change in the community.

The Women of Excellence Honorees take center stage at the awards ceremony, each embodying the values that YWCA Northeast Kansas holds dear. These outstanding women are dedicated to overcoming challenges and making a difference. From advocating for women's rights to making groundbreaking contributions in various fields, their tireless efforts have broken barriers and set new standards for future generations to follow.

The awards ceremony goes beyond a typical gala event; it is an evening of inspirational storytelling. The stories shared during the event demonstrate resilience and determination. The tales serve as a powerful reminder of the potential for greatness within everyone and the positive impact that women can have on society.

This momentous occasion will take place Saturday, September 23rd, 2023 at the Beacon in Downtown Topeka. The awards program will commence at 6:00 p.m. in the auditorium, where the honorees' stories will inspire and uplift the audience. Following the awards program, the EmpowerBall will take place in the upstairs ballroom, offering delectable food, a silent auction with unique items, drinks, music, and an ambiance of celebration.

As the event honors these trailblazers, it also pays tribute to the collective effort of all women who have paved the way for progress and equality.

Attendees are invited to join in this memorable celebration of women's achievements and contribute to the essential programs, resources, and advocacy efforts of YWCA Northeast Kansas. Together, they can build a future where the brilliance of women knows no bounds and the impact of these extraordinary trailblazers leaves a lasting legacy for generations to come.

In less than two months this gorgeous staircase at The Beacon ,will be full of honorees being recognized for their tremendous community efforts. Over the next few weeks, we will be introducing them on our social feeds, but we thought it would be fun to tell you about a few today!

Photo: The Beacon

Jessica Savard is the Community Engagement Coordinator at Advisors Excel. In her role she leads Advisors Excel’s volunteer efforts for their nearly 920 staff members. In her role she works with dozens of community agencies to learn the needs of their organizations and how her team can help move their mission forward and make an impact through public service. Jessica’s other responsibilities include, reviewing and evaluating non-profit agency grant requests, assisting with facilitating and arranging annual charitable events, coordinating yearly employee giving campaigns, and building and maintaining relationships with various community agencies to increase awareness and support of their organization. Since joining Advisors Excel’s Community Engagement team, Jessica has coordinated over 15,000 volunteer hours.

Jessica’s civic engagement includes serving as an Advisory Board member for Leadership Greater Topeka and Washburn University’s Leadership Institute. She is also a Community Leadership Council member for Kansas Big Brothers Big Sisters Serving Shawnee County. For nearly 2 years, Jessica has served as a “Big” to her “Little”, Elissa, through the Big Brothers Big Sisters program. She is also a proud member of Omni Circle Group. In her free time, Jessica enjoys spending time with her husband and daughter, volunteering and reading.

Miranda Hazim is a dedicated professional at the intersection of creativity and community service. As the driving force behind Hazim Happenings, she captures not just moments, but the essence of community engagement. In tandem with her role as a co-owner of MAD Marketing alongside Alison Beebe, Miranda's commitment to volunteerism shines brightly.

Miranda's lens extends beyond the ordinary, capturing the heart of community involvement. Her volunteering journey includes sharing her photographic talents with a myriad of organizations. From empowering sessions at the women's prison to contributing her skills to Sharefest, she leaves an indelible impact. Miranda's portfolio reflects her deepseated belief in giving back.

Through partnerships with community-rooted clients like Authentic Expressions, she not only documents events but also becomes an integral part of the fabric of local gatherings.

In the realm of MAD Marketing, Miranda's dedication finds expression in working with diverse clients, each contributing to the vibrant tapestry of the community. From Topeka Home Show to Build My Future, her efforts amplify local initiatives.

Miranda’s legacy is commitment to community enrichment. Through her lens and her ventures, she exemplifies the power of giving, creating a lasting impact that resonates far beyond the frame.

Dr. Lauren Edelman serves as the Director of the Leadership Institute at Washburn University. In her role, she teaches undergraduate courses for the Leadership Studies Minor and graduate courses for the Master of Arts in Communication and Leadership. She also oversees the development and execution of pillar leadership development programs such as the Leadership Challenge Event™ and supports student-led leadership programming through the Student Leadership Council.

Lauren has a passion for helping individuals reach their full leadership potential. Her purpose is to help equip the next generation of leaders to combat the complex challenges our communities and citizens are facing so everyone can thrive. Lauren and her husband, Kyle, are raising three young girls.

Together, they are committed to raising women who know their worth, fight for equity in everything they do, and to advocate and care for others. Her hope for our community is that we can bring people together from all facets of life, lived experiences, cultures, and backgrounds, to value the humanity in others and ensure that everyone in our community has access to basic needs and necessities that promote well-being.

Ebony White is the visionary founder behind Inspire & Company Candles, a manifestation of her profound passion for candle-making and an unwavering commitment to inspiring others to chase their aspirations fearlessly. Fueled by her resolute belief in overcoming obstacles, Ebony embarked on this journey to spread the message of unwavering determination and self-belief.

At the heart of Inspire & Co. Candles lies a dedication to crafting top-tier, all-natural candles. These exquisite creations are fashioned from 100% soybean wax, free from additives, and feature natural cotton wicks.

While predominantly an online venture, Inspire & Co. Candles finds a physical presence at local events, including The Downtown Farmers Market and Stormont Vail Hospital Gift Shop. Ebony's aspirations stretch beyond commerce; she aims to nurture a legacy of unyielding perseverance, urging individuals to surmount challenges and embrace their destinies.

Ebony's quest for empowerment is particularly pronounced among young adults, especially women and minorities. Her resolve to uplift budding entrepreneurs in Topeka, Kansas, underscores her commitment to community growth.

Follow our social feeds to hear about several other amazing women who are also

Congratulations

2023 WOMEN OF EXCELLENCE HONOREES

MISTY BOSCH-HASTINGS

City Of Lawrence

JANE BROWN

Aetna Better Health Of Kansas

VERONICA BYRD

Parents As Teachers

PAIGE CAUDLE

Corefirst Bank & Trust

KAYLEE CHAMPAGNE

Schwerdt Contract Interiors

MIRANDA CHAVEZ-HAZIM

Mad Markeitng And Hazim Happenings

AIMEE COPP-HASTY

Valeo Behavioral Health Care

LISA DAVIS

New Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church

LAUREN EDELMAN

Washburn University

KAYLA FAY

Envista Credit Union

NICKI FLANAGAN

Blue Cross And Blue Shield Of Kansas

JACKIE FOX

HTK Architects

WENDY GUERRA-GARCIA

Topeka Habitat For Humanity

RHONDA HARRIS

Kansas Department Of Commerce, Office Of Minority And Women Business Development

TRACY JEPSON

Kantex Financial & Flying Fish Divers

JACQULINE MORALES

Security Benefit

DANIELLE NORWOOD

KMAJ-FM Majic 107.7

JULIA RICHARDSON

Sunflower Community Inc.

SARA ROBERTS

Kansas Insurance Department

JESSICA SAVARD

Advisors Excel

KAYLA SCHADEGG

My Gym Topeka

DANIELLE TWEMLOW

Stormont Vail Health And Topeka Public Schools Parents As Teachers

CHRISTINA VALDIVIA-ALCALA

Tonantzin Society And Topeka City Council

VAL VANDERSLUIS

KTWU

EBONY WHITE

Inspire And Company

Additional information can be found here:

Is Your Digital Presence on the Rise? ONBUSINESS

By: Lesleigh Hodam

Have you been keeping an eye on the digital trends and how your Facebook page could help assist in raising your business closer to the top of Google searches? Social SEO is a newer practice that is a cost-efficient marketing tool helping small businesses reach new heights. Facebook SEO refers to the optimization of Facebook pages and content for search engines to improve their visibility and ranking in search results. It is an essential part of digital marketing that helps businesses increase their online presence and reach a wider audience.

The benefits of Facebook SEO are many. Firstly, it helps businesses attract more traffic to their Facebook pages, which can ultimately lead to increased engagement, brand awareness, and sales. Secondly, it allows businesses to target specific keywords and phrases, which can help them rank higher in search results for those terms. Thirdly, Facebook SEO can also positively impact a business's Google SEO by improving the overall authority and relevance of the brand's online presence.

To understand how Facebook SEO works with Google SEO, it's essential to note that search engines look at a wide range of factors to determine a page's relevance and authority. These factors include content quality, keywords, user engagement, backlinks, and social signals. Facebook SEO plays a crucial role in this equation by providing valuable social signals that search engines use to measure a page's popularity and authority.

Facebook SEO is an important component of any business's digital marketing strategy. By optimizing your Facebook page and content for search engines, businesses can attract more traffic, increase engagement, and ultimately improve your online visibility and authority. Also, by aligning your Facebook SEO efforts with your Google SEO, businesses can achieve even better results and further enhance your online presence.

If you aren’t sure where to begin, feel free to reach out topcityrise@gmail.com.