Topeka, KS January 2021

JA N UA RY 2 02 1

We are the Golden City!

W E LLN E S S A C O M B I NAT I O N APPROAC H T O PAI N REL I EF S T REN GT H , S T RE T C H AN D S TAB I L IZ E WI T H PI L AT ES HOME + DESIGN H O M E H ERO ES

PREMIERE ISSUE

We are here to make

you comfortable in your own home.

Call Blue Dot Today! 785.272.1633 BlueDotKansas.com | BBlueDotTopeka

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

JANUARY 2021 PUBLISHER

Brian Rodehorst | brian.rodehorst@lifestylepubs.com EDITORIAL COORDINATOR

Inspired by Topeka HAPPY NEW YEAR, AND WELCOME TO THE PREMIERE ISSUE OF TOPEKA LIFESTYLE. After the year we’ve had, we’re so excited to start this new year with a fresh outlook, renewed hope, and a brand new magazine all about Topeka! We are proud to call the “Golden City” our home.

Topeka Lifestyle was created to bring people together and strengthen our commu-

Kathy Graham | kathy.graham@lifestylepubs.com AD DESIGNER

Miranda Read L AYO UT DESIGNER

Emily Lisenbee CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Linda Ditch, Sue Baldani, Kelsey Huber, Kathy Graham CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Thomas Hall, John Burns

nity. From the carefully crafted food being served up at local restaurants, to beautiful homes; from start-ups and successful businesses to local artists, designers and fashionistas, our goal is to accentuate the good and celebrate the positive by sharing the stories of everything and everyone Topeka has to offer.

We want Topeka Lifestyle to become your go-to magazine for everything Topeka. We hope it introduces you to your favorite new sushi joint, helps you find the perfect pet groomer, points you in the direction of a doctor or dentist, and nails it when it comes to nail shops close to home. Small businesses took a beating in 2020, and we’re here to give them a voice and encourage Topeka folks to shop local. There’s never been a more important time to support our local businesses!

We have to give a shout out to our advertisers too! Without them, none of this would

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore

be possible. We are so grateful for their support and we hope you’ll take a minute to

ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor

peruse the ads and see if there isn’t something new that you didn’t know about or a

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

Topeka service you could use close to home.

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams

After the hubbub of the holidays, it seems that the new year gives us a quiet moment

WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

to take a pause and reassess our lives. During this retrospection, on the cusp of a new year, many of us ponder questions like, “What can we do better in 2021?” and “How can we improve our lives and ourselves?” With that in mind, we will kick off 2021, and our maiden issue, with a focus on health and wellness. Flip through the pages and enjoy!

514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

Wishing you a very healthy and happy new year!

ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN

Kathy Graham, Editorial Coordinator

MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEW JERSEY | NORTH CAROLINA OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA | SOUTH CAROLINA TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON

ON THE COVER Ashley Sandefur is an instructor for Pilates Performance and Rehab

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN BURNS 4

Topeka Lifestyle | January 2021

CityLifestyle.com/Topeka

Proverbs 3:5-6 Topeka 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 Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

A Winter Activity from Topeka Collegiate During the colder months, help your child get the wiggles out while also working on gross motor development, impulse control and communication skills. This activity is “Red Light, Green Light” with a winter twist!

Step 1: Designate a starting and finish line. Stand at the finish line and ask your child to stand at the starting line.

Step 2: Turn your back to your child and say, “Snowflake!” They should extend their arms and legs like a snowflake and stiffly make their way toward the finish line.

Step 3: Turn around to face them again and say, “Snowball!” By the time you turn

fully around, they should quickly tuck their bodies into a ball on the ground and freeze. If they are still moving, they must go back to the starting line.

Step 4: Once they make it to the finish line, it is your turn to go to the starting line while they give the commands.

Advanced Version: For older children, create “ice skates” using paper plates.

Secure them with “straps” using masking tape applied over their socks. Then say, “Ice Skate!” when you are facing away from them and, “Please Wait!” when you turn around.

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

This activity was shared by Mrs. Rippel, a prekindergarten teacher at Topeka Collegiate.

As the only independent school in the region, we prepare students to succeed in a rapidly changing world.

Learn more at www.topekacollegiate.org

INSIDE THE ISSUE JANUARY 2021

FEATURES 10 Grilled Chicken Breast & Strawberry Salad Fresh, Delicious and Easy to Prepare

18 A Combination Approach to Pain Relief Teamwork and dedication to helping others are their prescriptions for success

22 Strength, Stretch and Stabilize with Pilates

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26 Home Heroes Stone & Story Real Estate Group

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DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

8

Around Town

10

Culinary Creations

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Inspired By

26 Open House 30 Realty Report 32 Lifestyle Calendar 34 Local’s Choice

oft L

LIVING You can have it all when you live, work and play in downtown Topeka. With much to see and do outside your window, it’s no wonder so many are making a home on and off of Kansas Avenue.

downtowntopekainc.com

AROUND TOWN more, or stop by their showroom in the Brookwood Shopping Center at 2827 SW 29th Street in Topeka.

LILLY GRACE BOUTIQUE GRAND OPENING Owner Ashley Carson was pleased to announce the grand opening of her second boutique clothing store on Nov. 28th 2020. Lilly Grace is a boutique to celebrate girls. Specializing in size 6-14, plus juniors.

Everything is curated with your girls in mind. Check it out online at shopashboutique.com or pop into the store located at 3123 SW Huntoon St.

CELEBRATING TWO YEAR ANNIVERSARY

YOUR TAKEOUT IS TAKING MONEY OUT OF TOPEKA You’ve probably ordered food from a local restau-

Onyx Salon & Wellness Spa was excited to

rant using a convenient delivery app like Uber Eats,

have celebrated their second year in business

Grubhub, or DoorDash. But did you know that those

on Dec. 4th, 2020. Owner Heather Graves and

large companies take a sizable chunk of the revenue

her talented staff offer services from hair styling,

(15-35%) with each order? AIM Strategies, LLC, a

skin care and so much more, to an on site cafe

Topeka company that own the popular restaurants

featuring coffee, juice, Kombucha and treats. The

The Pennant, Iron Rail Brewing and Ghost Peppers,

salon is located @ 920 N Kansas Ave in the NOTO

has partnered with Cortez Transportation, a local

Arts & Entertainment district. Meet Heather and

limousine company, to increase business for both

her team and learn more about their Wellness

during this Coronavirus pandemic. AIM Strategies

Packages by visiting Onyxnoto.com

pays Cortez’s drivers a delivery fee, so they can help each other and the local economy survive. These two local companies are working to educate people to keep that money in Topeka and help local businesses survive. Spread the word!

HEART & HOME DESIGN OPENS NEW SHOWROOM Congratulations to another great locally owned business in Topeka - Heart & Home Design Company, who celebrated the grand opening

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TOPEKA CHRISTMAS ELF

of its new design showroom on Nov. 13th, 2020.

A new holiday tradition is to take your fur-baby

This kitchen design company is known for its

out to get a picture with the Topeka Christmas

customer service and personal touch. Heart &

Elf. It was on Dec 13th at Fairlawn Plaza. It was

Home serves Topeka, Lawrence and surrounding

hosted by TLC Pet Nursing Hotel and all proceeds

areas. Visit heartandhomedesignco.com to learn

went to the Helping Hands Humane Society.

Topeka Lifestyle | January 2021

:: Home Organizing / Moves & Relocations :: Attics | Bathrooms | Closets | Garages Home Off ice/Den | Kitchen/Pantries Laundry Rooms | Mudrooms | Kids Rooms | Storage Areas

Celsie Sneden

Owner - NEAT Method Kansas City Also serving Lawrence + Topeka

785.213.5781 | celsie@neatmethod.com | neatmethod.com

FRESH, DELICIOUS AND EASY TO PREPARE

CULINARY CREATIONS

G R I LLE D CH I CK E N B R E AST & STR AWB E R RY SA L A D INGREDIENTS For the dressing: + 3 tbsp golden balsamic vinegar + 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil + 1 tbsp chopped shallots + 1 teaspoon honey + 1 teaspoon water + 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt + fresh black pepper For the chicken: + 16 oz boneless skinless chicken breast + 1 clove garlic, crushed + 1 teaspoon seasoned salt, to taste For the Salad: + 6 cups baby spinach + 3 cups sliced strawberries + 3 cups sliced red apples + ½ cup walnuts + ½ cup pine nuts

ARTICLE KATHY GRAHAM

DIRECTIONS

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1. In a small bowl whisk together the dressing ingredients.

2. Season chicken with seasoned salt, then mix in crushed garlic.

3. Grill the chicken on medium heat, about 10 to 11 minutes on each side until charred on the outside. Set aside on a cutting board and slice on an angle.

4. In a large bowl toss the spinach with the dressing.

Divide between 4 plates and top sliced chicken, strawberries, red apples, walnuts and pine nuts.

Topeka Lifestyle | January 2021

• 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

Great custom home sites are still available

Topeka’s premier new home neighborhood.

CATHY LUTZ

(785) 925-1939 | CathyLutz.com Cathy@CathyLutz.com

CityLifestyle.com/Topeka

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INSPIRED BY

C H

YO U A R E T H E C ATA LY S T F O R CHANGE

ARTICLE DR. JOHN C. MAXWELL IF SOMEONE WERE TO ASK YOU, “WHAT GETS YOU OUT OF BED IN THE MORNING?” how would

A

you reply? Would you talk about your job or your family? Would you tell them about a dream you’re chasing or a goal you’re trying to meet?

What we give our lives to says a lot about who we are. For forty years now, I’ve gotten out of bed in the morning with one single focus: adding value to leaders

I’ve spent decades learning what it takes to trans-

who will multiply value to others.

form communities and countries, and with my

Because of that focus, I’ve authored over 80 books

writing partner, Rob Hoskins, have produced a

on relationships, equipping people, attitude, and lead-

book that offers step by step instruction on how

ership, all with the purpose of expanding my reach to

leaders—people who care to make a difference—

add value to leaders.

can produce transformation in their own backyard.

Four decades, dedicated to making better leaders.

It’s a book written for everyone—including you.

But now, as I enter into my fifth decade, my purpose

You are a potential catalyst for change in your

has expanded. I still get out of bed with the goal of

community, no matter where you live, no matter

adding value to leaders who will multiply value to

what you do. All it takes is your willingness to

others, but there’s an even greater purpose behind it all.

step up as a leader. Harriet Tubman once said,

Transformation. I want to see our world transformed

“Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always

into one where every human being is encouraged and

remember, you have within you the strength, the

allowed to live to their full potential. Imagine what it would

patience, and the passion to reach for the stars

be like to live in a world where everyone—men, women,

and change the world.”

children—were equipped and empowered to live a life of deep purpose. We would truly see a transformed world.

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RENOWNED LEADERSHIP COACH DETAILS HOW CHANGE IN A COMMUNITY CAN START WITH ONE PERSON: YOU

If you dream of changing your community, or city, or country, you must not only dream, you must

That’s the message of my latest book, Change Your

also act. Many things in life just happen, but pos-

World: How Anyone, Anywhere Can Make a Difference.

itive change isn’t one of them. Changing anything

G

Topeka Lifestyle | January 2021

in our world requires someone to be the catalyst.

Someone like you.

N

N

Dr. John C. Maxwell

Leaders like you become catalysts for change when they do three things: pick a problem to address, invite others to join

1. Pick a Problem to Address A leader can never become a catalyst until he or she first takes

them, and do what they

ownership of the problem they wish to solve. You cannot rally

can where they are.

days; people know when a leader is being half-hearted, and they

people to a cause that you aren’t willing to own, especially these don’t respect it. When you pick a problem to solve or a cause to rally around, you must have conviction in order to succeed.

Over the years, I’ve learned that whenever I feel a sense of conviction about an issue, I need to start moving in the direction I believe I should go, even if I’m uncertain. Action creates ownership, and ownership creates credibility with people. And you need that credibility because transformation cannot be done by one person alone—we all need people to join us on the journey.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Topeka

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INSPIRED BY (CONTINUED)

2. Invite Others to Join You When you’ve settled on the problem you want to tackle you should immediately begin looking for others to join you. In the book, Rob and I recommend starting with friends and family; you already have influence with them, and chances are you’re of like mind in many areas. Go to those family members who frequently ask you for advice or seek your opinion on personal matters, as you likely have greater influence with them.

To move beyond family, however, you’ll need to take a leap of faith and begin sharing your passion for solving the problem with other people. Passion attracts, and when people come to you with interest, don’t be afraid to ask them what they think or invite them to improve your ideas. Empowering people to help you creates a bond, and once that bond is established, you will quickly discover who you can truly work with and invite them to take action with you.

3. Do What You Can Where You Are Action is the final step. It doesn’t have to be big or grand; it doesn’t even have to be guaranteed of success. Nothing happens in life until someone does something, and once you take your first step, the next step will come into focus. Remember that transformation is a process, not an event. It takes time and repeated action to bring about positive change. So focus on purpose, not perfection, and do what you know to do.

These three steps may seem too simple, but I assure you they work. The goal of all transformational movements is making things better however possible. Incremental change is better than the status quo; and when you’re truly committed to making your community a better place, you know that any improvement is a significant improvement.

If you’d like to learn more about transformation

No matter what problems or challenges face your

and how to become a leader of transformation,

community, you are the catalyst for change that can

then I encourage you to pick up my book, Change

make all the difference. But you must choose to get

Your World, from your favorite bookstore or online

involved; transformation won’t choose you—you

retailer. If you’re concerned about making the world

must choose transformation.

a better place, then you know that now is the best time for leaders like us to make that dream a reality.

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Topeka Lifestyle | January 2021

For the sake of your community and mine, I sincerely hope you do.

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CityLifestyle.com/Topeka

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A COMBINATION APPROACH TO PAIN RELIEF TEAMWORK AND DEDICATION TO HELPING OTHERS ARE THEIR PRESCRIPTIONS FOR SUCCESS

THE

GOAL

FOR

MANUAL

OF

THE

CENTER

MEDICINE

AND

REGENERATIVE ORTHOPEDICS IS NOT ONLY TO TREAT PATIENTS’ PAIN, BUT TO FIND THE ROOT CAUSE OF WHAT’S CAUSING IT. By doing this, patients can start to heal, avoid relapses, and improve mobility.

“One of the main things we really put an emphasis on is diagnostics,” says Dr. Doug Frye, MD. “So physical diagnostics, which is putting your hands on people, seeing what works, what doesn’t work, and where they’re tender and not tender.”

The Center, located in Topeka, offers a combination approach to pain relief.

“What we stress is that imaging doesn’t show pain, so it’s up to the physician, the chiropractor and the physical therapists to determine where the pain is coming

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Topeka Lifestyle | January 2021

ORTHOPEDICS ARTICLE SUE BALDANI

PHOTOGRAPHY THOMAS HALL

from,” says Seth Harrison. Besides being the office manager, Harrison has an extensive background in musculoskeletal rehabilitation and has been with the practice for over 20 years.

Dr. Doug Frye, MD

“We get to see people get better faster by having multiple entities to attack the problem as well as more hands and eyes,” says chiropractor Dr. Dani Steffen.

“First, there is an evaluation to determine what area I need to address, if it’s safe to treat, or if I need to get other members of our team involved.

“After the evaluation and being cleared to treat, there’s different things we can do. There’s the traditional diversified technique that most chiropractors use, and there are instrument assisted treatments with tools and blocks.”

Matt Elniff and Courtney Simon are the physical therapists on the team. “You have to address the joint motion and try to fix muscle and postural imbalances Matt Elniff, PT, FAAOMPT

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Topeka

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ORTHOPEDICS A COMBINATION APPROACH (CONTINUED)

which is really key to preventing joint dysfunctions from returning,” says Elniff. “If you continue to move abnormally, and have the same faulty postures, you will always fall back into the same dysfunction.”

Elniff’s training goes well beyond what many other physical therapists attain. “The training that I’ve completed and Courtney is going through is one of the highest levels a physical therapist can complete in orthopedic manual therapy. What that means is we have a lot better ability to see with our hands. We can feel things moving or not moving much better than your average therapist because of the training. We also know how to correct those movements and posture.”

Adds Simon, “I have patients tell me they’ve been dealing with their issues for a year or two and they’ve been to so many different doctors and physical therapists and then they finally get referred here and it’s the first time they haven’t had pain in years. That’s rewarding for me.”

Seth Harrison, CSCS

The Center also has the distinction of being the first practice in Kansas certified for musculoskeletal ultrasound. “As far as we know,” says Dr. Frye, we’re still, 13 years later, the only one.”

He is often called upon by the other practitioners to help with a diagnosis through the use of ultrasound.

“Instead of spending thousands on an MRI, an ultrasound costs a few hundred,” says Harrison. “It’s vastly cost saving for the patient and greatly improves the speed of timing to feel better.”

In addition to the manual medicine side of the practice, there’s also the innovative regenerative orthopedics aspect. “Basically you have wear and tear on your joints and you have repair that your body does,” says Dr. Frye.

“If you get out of balance and don’t have the ability to repair it, you get pain. Regenerative treatment is where we’re trying to boost that repair process.

“We do that with injection therapies with your own cells, either plasma rich platelets or fat cells which have stem cells. We have the ability to do things most people Courtney Simon, DPT

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Topeka Lifestyle | January 2021

can’t.” The Center also has a sterile lab on site where the materials for these injections are prepared.

S

“What sets us apart from others is that we’re using patients’ own biologics, so we’re injecting their own platelets, their own stem cells,” says Harrison. “And these are living cells, whereas other places use cells that are cryogenically frozen and shipped so there are no living cells in there.”

While focusing on pain relief and mobility, the Center is also following all guidelines to keep their patients and staff safe says Dr. Frye. “We haven’t had anybody test positive here.”

To find out more about The Center for Manual Medicine and Regenerative Orthopedics, go to its website at www.ctrmm.com. Here, you can also find its YouTube page containing many helpful videos.

Dr. Dani Steffen, DC

ORTHOPEDICS

during COVID-19. “We feel like we’re doing a really good job,”

“We get to see people get bet ter faster by hav i ng mu lt iple ent it ies to at tack the problem as wel l as more ha nds a nd eyes.”

CityLifestyle.com/Topeka

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Owner - Desima Dawdy

S T R E NGT H , STR ETCH AND S TA BI L I Z E WITH PI L AT E S

Client - Kathy Selig

Client - Dr. John Gay, MD

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Topeka Lifestyle | January 2021

ARTICLE LINDA DITCH PHOTOGRAPHY JOHN BURNS

Clients Natalie Maupin & Craig Maupin

SALLY BOLEY WAS BUSY GOING THROUGH HER ROUTINE ONE RECENT MONDAY MORNING AT PILATES PERFORMANCE AND REHAB, WHERE SHE HAS WORKED OUT FOR THE PAST TWO YEARS. She exercises on her favorite apparatus known as The Reformer. An avid golfer, Boley not only plays on the course with three of her golfing buddies, but they also exercise at PPR and are known affectionally as the Pilates Fore Golfing ladies.

“I started Pilates because exercise is so important to our health and well-being,” Boley says. “Pilates helps with all sports that involve flexibility, range of motion, and strength. I play golf, so it has been very helpful for flexibility in my swing. It has definitely helped my core strength, which is so important for daily living, especially as we age.”

Pilates Performance and Rehab (PPR) owner Desima Dowdy is passionate about this form of exercise.

Developed by German immigrant Joseph Hubertus Pilates in the early 20th Century, Pilates is designed to improve flexibility, strength, posture, alignment, breathing, balance, gait, coordination, and core control. It can be done without equipment, where it is referred to as mat Pilates, or it can incorporate unique apparatus such as The Reformer that can assist or challenge a person to stretch, strengthen, stabilize and align the body through controlled movements and breath.

CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Topeka

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STRENGTH, STRETCH AND STABILIZE (CONTINUED)

Fate played a role in Dawdy’s introduction to Pilates. While on a pre-med education track in her college days, she discovered her passion leaned more towards preventive medicine and lifetime wellness. In the 1990s, she owned Absolute Fitness for Women, which was recognized by Club Industry Magazine as one of the top three entrepreneurs/innovators in the United States for work in the field of women’s health and wellness.

“In my thirties and at the height of our growth, I experienced some major medical injuries caused by both auto and freak accidents that put me out of play in the then trending step aerobics, spinning, weight circuit, and group fitness world,” Dawdy says. “Prior to my injuries, I was pretty oblivious to the specialized and adaptive needs of those with soft tissue and neurological issues, or even the concept of someone under 50 unable to easily get down and up from the floor.”

Out of desperation, Dawdy searched for alternative therapies, which lead to her study of Pilates and the eventual creation of PPR. Twenty years later, the business is going strong.

“Truth be told, I did not find Pilates, but by the grace of God and divine providence, it found me,” she says.

Dr. John Gay was also working out that Monday on the trapeze table. A client of PPR for more than 12 years, he credits Pilates with managing his chronic lower back pain, cervical spine dysfunction, and poor posture. He also believes the practice is healthy for the brain and stabilizes mood.

“Pilates is a full-body program that strengthens all muscles,” Gay says. “The moves are slow, precise and controlled working against gravity and the resistance of the springs. Personally, I have found this system to be superior over working with a traditional trainer and free weights.”

Like other fitness facilities, PPR had to shut down for a time in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. With input from Shawnee County Public Health Director, Dr. Gianfranco Pezzino, they modified the floor plan to utilize three entrances, created four separate unique training spaces, and purchased more props to create social distance stations six feet apart. At the same time, every trainer was transitioning as many personal training and rehab-based clients as possible to Zoom.

“I have been quite comfortable going to the studio during Covid-19,” says Dr. Gay. “This is because the studio is kept very clean, masks are worn appropriately and distance is maintained.”

Pilates Performance and Rehab does not require an annual membership. Payment is per class. To find out more details, go to pilatesperformanceandrehab.com to learn more.

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Topeka Lifestyle | January 2021

Joni Wells - Comprehensive Polestar Pilates Instructor

Client - Marsha Mechtley Pilates Fore Golfing ladies Vicki Conroy, Sally Boley, Cindy Cooper, Marsha Mechtley

CityLifestyle.com/Topeka

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OPEN HOUSE

ARTICLE LINDA DITCH PHOTOGRAPHY THOMAS HALL

Home Heroes STONE & STORY REAL ESTATE GROUP

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Topeka Lifestyle | January 2021

“We’re not just here for th is t ra nsact ion. You’re now a pa r t of ou r fa m i ly.”

IT WAS A GREAT IDEA AT THE TIME. Stone and Story Real

downsize, or build their dream home. The mission is to inspire

Estate Group joined forces with Dultmeier Homes to build a

growth and possibilities to be the hero of their story.

model home where they could not only set up their offices, but also show off design and building options to potential clients.

Stahl says, “We don’t want you to make a bad investment because we want to be with you for life. We’re not just here for

Then came the pandemic.

this transaction. You’re now a part of our family. You’re getting the

“Everything was being framed and we were putting drywall up,

free pie at Thanksgiving!”

and COVID happened” says Annette Stahl, realtor and designer

Darin Stephens, Co-Founder and COO, adds, “It’s important

for Stone and Story. “We were going to have events and training.

that, as we’re putting a house on the market, we’re getting the

So, none of that could happen. Instead it’s being re-imagined. We

homeowner back to the honesty. They may not want to hear it, but

do a lot of FaceTime from here.”

we’re going to tell them what they need to do to get to where they

Stone and Story, a Keller Williams One Legacy Partner, is a full-service Realtor who not only helps people find or build their

need to be. That’s why people trust and respect us, because they know we will do it professionally and respectfully.”

new home, but they also help them sell their existing home. Their

In designing the model home, Stahl went for a modern, open-

clients range from first time homebuyers and ones looking to

space feel with lots of natural wood. She wanted to inspire clients

relocate, to people seeking investment properties, wanting to

to have fun and play with their design choices while giving them CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/Topeka

27

OPEN HOUSE (CONTINUED)

We wa nt to ma ke su re you

ca n go out to d i n ner, go on vacat ion, a nd do the other th i ngs you wa nt to do a nd you’re not sit t i ng at home

wor r y i ng a bout how you’re goi ng to ma ke the nex t house pay ment.”

28

a sense of how she can help them with paint, wallpaper,

this time of year are serious. They want a house and they

flooring, and fixture selections. Her philosophy is to pick

want it now, where those looking in other seasons may

solid basics, like flooring and kitchen cabinets, and then

just be doing it to see what’s available without any real

have fun with things easy to change out as styles change,

intent to buy. As of now, the majority of the houses put on

such as paint, lighting fixtures and window treatments.

the market sell within a month.

While most homeowners think January isn’t the best

If someone is thinking of buying a home, these are the

time to sell, both Stephens and Stahl emphasize winter

top three things Stahl and Stephens want them to con-

as a great time to enter the market. The reason: Buyers at

sider before getting started:

Topeka Lifestyle | January 2021

1. Budget: How do you want to live? How much money

“We are hyper sensitive to putting people into a home

do you want to go towards the house verses other inter-

they can live in,” said Stephens. “There can be a big dif-

ests, such as travel, boating, etc?

ference between what you qualify for and what you feel

2. Why are you moving? Are you running away or mov-

comfortable in. We want to make sure you can go out to

ing to? Neither are right or wrong, but it’s important to be

dinner, go on vacation, and do the other things you want

clear about the reasons behind the move.

to do and you’re not sitting at home worrying about how

3. What are the three things that are non-negotia-

you’re going to make the next house payment.”

ble must-haves in the house? For men, it’s typically the garage, yard, basement. For women, it’s the kitchen, mas-

Stone and Story is located at 2655 SW Wanamaker. Contact

ter suite, and home location.

Stephens or Stahl at 785-250-7278 or log onto www.stoneandstory.com for more information and real estate listings.

CityLifestyle.com/Topeka

29

REALTY REPORT

REALTY REPORT

NEIGHBORHOOD

TOPEKA

ORIGINAL PRICE

SOLD PRICE

%SOLD/ORIG

DOM

BDRMS

BATHS

3768 SW Wood View DR

$255,000

$250,000

98.04%

17

4

3.5

4405 SW Brandywine LN

$255,700

$255,700

100.00%

0

4

3.5

2028 SW Wildwood LN

$269,900

$280,000

103.74%

9

4

2.5

4114 SW Misty Harbor AVE

$285,000

$282,400

99.09%

0

4

3

2232 SE Aspen CT

$289,777

$290,000

100.08%

24

4

3.5

7518 SW 27th ST

$315,000

$300,000

95.24%

66

4

3

7638 SW 27th ST

$317,200

$317,200

100.00%

3

5

3.5

8016 SW 28th CIR

$309,900

$320,000

103.26%

2

4

3

1331 SW Pembroke LN

$325,000

$325,000

100.00%

25

4

2.5

2424 SW Millers Cove CT

$330,000

$330,000

100.00%

0

4

3

7904 SW 29th ST

$360,000

$360,000

100.00%

0

4

3.5

4438 SW Deer Run ST

$365,000

$360,000

98.63%

3

4

3

4342 SW Urish RD

$385,000

$393,000

102.08%

3

3

2

7543 SW Ambassador PL

$415,000

$400,000

96.39%

1

5

3.5

2746 SW MacVicar AVE

$429,000

$429,000

100.00%

24

5

4.5

5910 SW Valencia RD

$430,000

$430,000

100.00%

0

4

4.5

3812 SW 40th ST

$439,000

$439,000

100.00%

34

3

3

9603 SW 45th ST

$440,000

$440,000

100.00%

0

5

4.5

4101 SW Marlboro RD

$455,000

$455,000

100.00%

0

4

3.5

5908 SW Clarion LN

$465,000

$465,000

100.00%

0

4

3.5

3401 SW Hodges RD

$439,900

$475,000

107.98%

4

3

4

5727 SW Clarion LN

$485,000

$489,512

100.93%

6

5

4.5

4850 SW 53rd ST

$539,900

$539,900

100.00%

2

4

4.5

5832 SW Clarion LN

$589,900

$585,000

99.17%

122

5

5.5

5729 SW 37th TER

$625,000

$619,950

99.19%

0

5

5.5

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.dultmeirerhomes.com 30

Topeka Lifestyle | January 2021

THERE IS A NEW SIGN IN TOWN Stone & Story Real Estate Group

We love helping buyers find their dream home! That’s why we work with each client individually, taking the time to understand their unique lifestyles, needs and wishes. You’ll find that we’ll be a committed ally to negotiate on your behalf and with the backing of a trusted company.

Get in touch with us today!

Stone & Story Real Estate Group, LLC 5714 SW 55th St | Topeka, KS 66610

785-250-7278 • stoneandstory.com

LIFESTYLE CALENDAR

1 - 31 TOPEKA SCAVENGER HUNT: TOP CITY'S TOP SIGHTS

298 SW 10th Ave, Topeka, KS 66612 (833) 202-7626

This is the story of a patch of potatoes that grew into the magnificent capital of Kansas. We explore the city center's iconic buildings, epic sculptures and cultural attractions. Why did it take four decades to build the Statehouse? Which hall-of-fame musicians played the Topeka Performing Arts Center? Find out on this scavenger hunt of Topeka.

ASH BOUTIQUE A WOMEN’S BOUTIQUE OFFERING CONTEMPORARY WOMEN’S FASHION. 921 SOUTH KANSAS AVENUE | TOPEKA, KS

785.438.2345 shopashboutique.com bvf

Daily Tickets - $11

1 FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK/CREATE YOUR OWN ART Studio 62 816 N Kansas Ave, Topeka, KS 66608 (785) 431-3221

Create your own art this first Friday! No experience necessary, an artist will be here to help you step by step through your creation process!$5 4*6 canvas$15 8*10 canvas$25 16 *20 canvas

1 ARTSCONNECT FIRST FRIDAY ARTWALK

All across Topeka - NOTO, Downtown, Westboro, Brookwood and MORE!

During the ArtsConnect First Friday Artwalk, we find every corner of Topeka filled with art, friends and exciting special events. Every month is different - and every business is different, so please check our website at www.artsconnecttopeka.org for information each month and then join thousands of people in this fantastic monthly event!

2 - 30 WALK IN PAINT NIGHTS

Studio 62 816 N Kansas Ave, Topeka, KS 66608 (785) 431-3221

Recurring weekly on Sunday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday Share with your friends that can't commit to reservations! LOL Walk in anytime between 4 & 6pm and 32

Topeka Lifestyle | January 2021

JANUARY

create awesome art with help from a studio artist. Even if you come in at 6 you can paint as long as you need! *Price Options* $5 -Canvas $15 -Canvas $25 -Canvas

5, 12, 19, 26 FREE TEAM TRIVIA

Norsemen Brewing Company 830 N. Kansas Avenue, Topeka, KS 66608 (785) 783-3999

Topeka's most popular trivia challenge is on! Fun, thoughtful questions and an entertaining host take your game night to the next level! Prizes for top teams and great varieties of locally brewed beer - it's a win-win!

Recurring weekly on Tuesday

10, 24 JAMMIN ADULT SKATE NIGHT

Sk8away 815 SW Fairlawn Rd, Topeka, KS 66606 (785) 232-0303

Jammin Adult Skate Night every Second and Fourth Sunday Night for persons 18 and Older. Good Times, Great Music and all welcome regardless of experience.

Would you like to get in touch with us? We would love to hear from you! Contact us at CityLifestyle.com/ Topeka using the Get In Touch link and let us know what you think.

CityLifestyle.com/Topeka

33

LOCAL’S CHOICE

MEET THE PUBLISHER BRIAN'S FAVORITE THINGS

BRIAN Hometown: Topeka, KS

SOCCER

HAWAIIAN VACATION

Growing up and playing through

A 15-day vacation to the four islands

college then coaching competitive

with my wife, just tops my 2-month

youth teams for 17 years in Topeka

hitchhike across Europe in the 90’s.

has made soccer my favorite sport.

GALAXY Z FOLD 2 PHONE This has been the most enjoyable phone I’ve ever owned.

GLENMORANGIE 18YR EXTREMELY RARE SCOTCH

FEDORA HATS The classic of the classics.

My current favorite, I enjoy a dram of this “neat”.

ARTICLE KATHY GRAHAM 34

Topeka Lifestyle | January 2021

“Life Insurance Made Simple, With Kristina Smith.”

As your local agent with Bankers Life & Casualty in Topeka, KS. I am here to ensure that you understand your coverage, and that you’re not paying for something you don’t want or need.

Kristina Smith

Insurance / Financial Services

Call 785.414.7069

Flexible and convenient payment options Quarterly reviews of your risk portfolio Enjoy our traditional, world-class service Take Advantage of Your local Insurance Provider with access to more than 40 A-Rated Carrier Partners!

The Best Coverage for the Best Price, with the Best Companies!

for a Free Review of Your Insurance Needs

kristinasmithinsurance.com

Bankers Life Securities Inc, and Bankers Life & Casualty Corp are affiliated companies. Non-affiliated insurance products offered through Bankers Life Securities General Agency, Inc. Securities and variable annuities offered through Bankers Life Securities, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC (dba BL Securities Inc, AL, GA, IA, IL, MI, NV, PA). Investment Advisory products and services are offered by Bankers Life Advisory Services, Inc. SEC Registered Adviser, (dba BL Advisory Services, Inc, AL, GA, IA, MT, NV, PA). Investments are: Not Guaranteed—Involve Risk—May Lose Value. Bankers Life Securities Customer Call Center: (844) 553-9083

3745 Southwest Wanamaker Rd. Topeka, Kansas 66610

Experiencing hand or wrist pain?

We can treat you!

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5000 SW 21st Street, Topeka KS 66604 • 785-271-8100 • www.ctrmm.com