A New Take on Investment in Our Golden City
The New Face of Investment
When we hear the word "investment," our minds often jump to stocks, bonds, and portfolios. But true investment extends far beyond financial markets. It's about vision—seeing potential where others see the ordinary. It's about commitment—believing in something long before its value is recognized. And most importantly, it's about impact, shaping the future in ways that money alone never could.
In this issue, we explore investment in its many forms. We look at two local art galleries, where seasoned collectors and novices are not just buying paintings, but preserving culture and history. We visit with a Farmers Insurance agent who not only can protect our investments through insurance but also preserve history through collecting memorabilia. We dive into the rich history of a beloved neighborhood that has shaped the landscape of our Golden City. And we examine the transformation of a local mall, once home to retail giants, now being repurposed into a thriving hub of workspaces, eateries, and mixed-use developments.
Each of these investments requires more than just capital; they demand foresight, creativity, and patience. Whether it's a canvas, commercial space, collectible cards, or a corner lot, the value lies not just in what it is today, but in what it can be tomorrow. The power of investment is the promise of what’s to come.
So, as you turn these pages, we invite you to think beyond the balance sheet. The most rewarding investments are not just about financial returns; they're about bringing joy to today by building a better tomorrow.
Happy investing!
KATHY GRAHAM, EDITOR @TOPEKALIFESTYLE
April 2025
PUBLISHER
Brian Rodehorst | brian.rodehorst@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Kathy Graham | kathy.graham@citylifestyle.com
STAFF WRITERS
Amanda Knowland | amandalanum@gmail.com
Kelsey Huber | khuber2@gmail.com
Linda Ditch | lindaaditch@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Kristy Belley, Amy Salvagno
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS
Lindsey Wagers | info@wagersphotography.com
Kristol Kumar | kristol@kristolkumar.com
Create Uplift | info@createuplift.com
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Gary Jones, Eddy Van Fleet
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
Proverbs 3:5-6
TopCity Pickleball Tournament by Topeka South Rotary
The 2025 TopCity Pickleball Tournament hosted by Topeka South Rotary will be held June 21st-22nd at Hughes Park, $60 per team, per event, Men's & Women's Doubles | Mixed Doubles. One registration per team per event. If you plan to play both days you will need to fill out a separate registration form for each event. Men's & women's doubles will be Saturday. Mixed doubles will be Sunday. topcitypickleball.com
Scan to read more
Attend the 5th Annual Woolly Farms Gala
Our differences define us. At Woolly Farms Foundation, we choose to celebrate them, providing adults with diverse abilities the distinct ability to shine. Join us for a colorful evening celebrating our members at the 5th Annual Woolly Farms Gala April 25th at Vaerus Aviation Hangar in Topeka. With dinner, dancing, live music and inspiring stories, it’s the best night of the year. All funds raised support the Woolly Farms Foundation. Tickets and sponsorships available woollyfarms.org/events
Topeka Children's Fest at Every Plaza
Join us for a day of fun and excitement at the Topeka Children's Fest held this year at the Every Plaza April 19th 1pm-7pm. Hosted in benefit of Sole Reason and One Can One Kid. Donate used footwear or aluminum cans for a chance to win prizes. Free event with lots of kids activities, vendors and food trucks. Special appearances by KC Wolf and Heavyweight Boxing Champion John "The Ironman" Cantrell. Facebook @solereasonforkids
MCFARLAND FARM
A Lasting Tribute
ARTICLE BY KELSEY HUBER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY FIRST SHOWING PHOTOGRAPHY
To truly appreciate the rich history of McFarland Farm, one must go back nearly a century to the early days of Topeka.
The previous owner of the land and patriarch of the McFarland family was Dr. Kenneth McFarland, a nationally renowned speaker and Kansas native. He earned a bachelor's degree from Pittsburg State College of Kansas in 1927, followed by a master’s degree from Columbia University in 1931 and a doctorate from Stanford University in 1940. In 1942, when he was appointed Superintendent of Topeka Public Schools, he moved his family to the outskirts of Topeka—to the 138 acres that are today known as McFarland Farm.
As the subsequent heir to the family farm, Kay McFarland called this property home until 2001. After graduating from Washburn University School of Law in 1964 as the sole female in her class, she became the first female judge of the probate and juvenile courts for Shawnee County in 1970. In 1972, she became the first woman elected as a Shawnee County District Court judge. Five years later, she was the first woman appointed to the Kansas Supreme Court, and in 1995, she became the first female Chief Justice, holding the position until her retirement in 2009. Though Kay McFarland passed away in 2015, her impact and legacy live on through her generous endowments.
In 2001, Kay McFarland sold McFarland Farm to developers to construct a premier, master-planned residential community that would pay tribute to the land’s unique heritage. “The development partners set out to honor the McFarland Farm legacy, keeping the name and creating a beautiful new home community in the heart of Topeka,” said Cathy Lutz, Associate Broker, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices First REALTORS®.
Early in its conceptualization, partners Ron Lutz, Joyce Lutz, Ron Andersen, Mary Andersen, Craig Lutz, and Elinor Hart worked closely with land planners to create a beautiful neighborhood
Opposite RIght Bottom: McFarland Family Above: Eddy Van Vleet/First Showing Photography
and peaceful retreat—just minutes from downtown—with abundant green space, berms, plantings, sidewalks, and neighborhood lakes for residents to enjoy. The founding partners’ dedication to this project for over two decades reflects their deep love for the land and their community. Their vision, the McFarland Farm community, is their legacy—one that will be enjoyed for generations to come.
As Topeka's only master-planned neighborhood, McFarland Farm includes a community pool, private gated maintenance-provided homes, and larger single-family estates. “Heritage Homes, which is owned by Craig Lutz, General Contractor, has custom-built most of the homes in the community,” Lutz said. “To his credit, their team building approach incorporates some of the area's best designers, subcontractors, and craftsmen, creating custom homes as wonderful and unique as the families who own them.”
The founding partners’ thoughtful design is not just seen—it’s felt. Wide, well-lit walking paths encourage evening strolls. A neighborhood pool provides a gathering place for families, while
fully stocked fishing lakes invite grandparents and grandchildren to fish from the banks. The landscaping, lush foliage, and ample green space echo the beauty of the original farmland.
At the entrance to McFarland Farm stands Spring & Sprite, a bronze equine sculpture by Colorado artist Veryl Goodnight. Specially chosen by the developers, the horses are mounted within a waterscape cascading over granite boulders sourced from the land. The entry monument serves as a fitting tribute— connecting the land’s history as a renowned horse farm to its present-day use as Topeka’s premier new home community.
Above: Eddy Van Vleet/First Showing Photography
EJ’s Sportscards and Collectibles
Passion for sports cards turned business: connecting collectors and fueling the thrill of the hunt
For Eric Finck, business and passion go hand in hand. By day, he’s a Farmers Insurance agency owner, helping people navigate their insurance needs. But outside the office, his lifelong love of sports collecting has led to his second venture—EJ’s Sportscards and Collectibles, a space where collectors buy, sell, and trade memorabilia.
A LIFELONG PASSION
Eric’s love for sports cards began in 1984 when he was a young Kansas City Royals fan growing up in Manhattan, Kansas. A visit to Dev’s Dugout, the local card shop, changed everything.
“I bought my first pack of cards, and from that point on, I was hooked,” he recalls. The thrill of collecting, studying player statistics, and chasing complete card sets fueled his passion for decades.
By 1989, Eric was attending sports card shows to buy and sell, supporting his collection while meeting fellow enthusiasts. Over the years, he built an impressive collection, focusing on vintage baseball sets from 1970 and earlier. Some of his prized possessions include a complete 1953 Topps set, a 1954 Topps Hank Aaron rookie card, a 1948 Bowman Jackie Robinson, and a 1953 Bowman Color Pee Wee Reese card.
“I love the hunt,” Eric says. “Finding that one missing piece to complete a set is what drives me. It’s the thrill of the chase.”
ARTICLE BY AMANDA KNOWLAND
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDSEY WAGERS/ WAGERS PHOTOGRAPHY
THE BIRTH OF EJ’S SPORTSCARDS AND COLLECTIBLES
With his collection growing, Eric needed a dedicated space. He converted a building on his property into a shop, creating a haven for his hobby while giving local collectors a place to connect. EJ’s Sportscards and Collectibles, at 10388 S Road in Hoyt, is open on Saturdays and features sports cards, autographs, figurines, magazines, and more.
THE COLLECTIBLES MARKET
While Eric primarily buys and sells at shows, he also lists items on eBay and Facebook Marketplace. He closely follows sports trends, researching player performance and market fluctuations to understand what’s hot. Right now, he says, football rookies Bo Nix and Jayden Daniels are in demand, while Patrick Mahomes cards continue to hold strong value.
“The market is pretty hot right now,” Eric explains. “My concern is overproduction, like in the late ’80s and ’90s – those cards
are not valuable. That’s why I focus on vintage—those cards are set in value, and they’re not making more of them.”
Beyond sports cards, Eric has expanded into Pokémon trading cards, recognizing their growing popularity among collectors of all ages. He also carries figurines, magazines, pictures, and autographs.
THE BALANCE OF BUSINESS AND PASSION
Balancing two businesses might seem challenging, but for Eric, both fulfill a core part of who he is. As an insurance agent, he enjoys building relationships and helping clients understand their coverage options. At collectibles shows, he applies the same approach—engaging with people, learning their interests, and helping them find what they need.
“It’s always cool to meet different people and help them complete their collections,” Eric says. “Talking to people is key. If you’re a dealer who engages with customers, you’ll have a good time and make sales.”
While his children may not share his collecting passion, his spouse, Tammy, surprised him with an unforgettable 50th birthday gift: a 1953 Topps Mickey Mantle card.
“I was pleasantly shocked,” Eric says of his favorite collectible memory.
A HOBBY FOR LIFE
For Eric, collecting isn’t just a business—it’s a lifelong passion that provides fulfillment and community.
“I’ll be doing this forever,” he says. “It’s a great release, like therapy. When I’m in my shop, it’s peaceful—just me and the cards.”
Follow Eric’s memorabilia shop on Facebook and search: EJ’s Sportscards and Collectibles.
Investing in the Community
How Advisors Excel is Breathing New Life into West Ridge Mall
ARTICLE BY AMANDA KNOWLAND
PHOTOGRAPHY BY LINDSEY WAGERS/ WAGERS PHOTOGRAPHY
Since 1988, West Ridge Mall has been an integral part of Topeka’s retail scene. More than a shopping destination, it was a gathering place, a space for shared experiences, and, in some cases, the backdrop to a love story. Now, thanks to the vision and investment of Advisors Excel (AE), the mall is poised for a remarkable revival - a transformation that will not only impact its tenants and patrons but the entire Topeka community.
A LOVE STORY IN THE HEART OF WEST RIDGE MALL
For AE employee Kelsey Smith, West Ridge Mall holds a special place in her heart. It was there, on September 16, 2001, just days after the tragedy of 9/11, that she met her future husband, Chris. Searching for a distraction from the heavy news cycle, Kelsey decided on retail therapy, a routine she often indulged in as a newcomer to Topeka. She also held a part-time job at the Kirkland’s in the mall at the time.
Chris and Kelsey Smith 2005
Chris and Kelsey Smith 2025
“I didn’t know a lot of people in town,” she recalls, “I often spent time at the mall because it was a vibrant place at that time. It was a good way to make friends and meet people.”
As she stood beneath the palm trees by the escalators that day, watching Beverly Bernardi Post dancers perform a patriotic tribute, she struck up a conversation with Chris, a local part-time radio DJ covered in Q103 stickers, who was there raising money for disaster relief.
Their serendipitous meeting led to an impromptu three-hour conversation in the food court. It was the first spark of a connection that would later bring them back to the mall on their wedding day in 2005 for a photo under the very spot where they first met. On September 16, 2013 – exactly 12 years after she met Chris – Kelsey started working for AE. Now, Kelsey prepares to return to West Ridge Mall in a professional capacity, as AE transforms the space into a world-class headquarters—an unexpected full-circle moment for her.
THE VISION FOR WEST RIDGE MALL’S FUTURE
The decision for AE to invest in the mall was both a financial and community-driven initiative. Co-founder Cody Foster saw an opportunity to not only secure a sustainable headquarters for AE, but also revitalize a cornerstone of Topeka’s commercial landscape.
“When you look at the cost of new construction, buying and revitalizing West Ridge Mall was a financially sound decision,” Foster explains. “But beyond that, we saw a chance to help save the mall, attract new retail, and create a space the community can take pride in again.”
Foster recalls the mall’s former vibrancy and recognizes its potential to return as a prime retail and entertainment hub for Northeast Kansas. With a population of over 500,000 in the greater region, West Ridge Mall has the capacity to become a major draw, not just for shopping but for dining, events, and social gatherings. AE’s investment aligns with national trends that indicate a resurgence in brick-and-mortar shopping, particularly among younger consumers who crave interactive, in-person retail experiences.
A COMMITMENT TO TOPEKA’S GROWTH & ECONOMY
For AE, Topeka has been – and always will be - home.
“We’re never leaving Topeka,” Foster says. “Our long-term goal is to have a life-changing impact on this community, and West Ridge Mall fits perfectly into that vision.”
A thriving mall doesn’t just benefit its occupants; it has a ripple effect across the entire city.
“West Ridge Mall should be the #1 driver of sales tax revenue in Topeka,” Foster notes. By increasing traffic to the mall, AE’s investment will contribute to higher sales tax revenue, benefiting public services, infrastructure, and overall economic health.
This investment sends a strong message that Topeka is a city worth believing in. Foster likens it to an investment strategy: “In the investing world, you want to buy low and sell high. I’ve felt for years that Topeka was a ‘buy low’ opportunity with immense potential. The momentum we’ve seen—record-breaking housing markets, increased university enrollment, and major corporate investments—only confirms that belief.”
“Our long-term goal is to have a life-changing impact on this community, and West Ridge Mall fits perfectly into that vision,” Foster says.
AE Co-founders: David Callanan & Cody Foster
THE COMMUNITY’S MALL
For Kelsey, the transformation of West Ridge Mall is particularly meaningful. Having experienced its heyday firsthand, she’s eager to see it reclaim its role as a vibrant hub.
“When I heard AE was moving in, I thought, ‘What a full-circle moment,’” she shares. “I know people have been negative about the mall in recent years, but this change is going to be incredible for the community.”
She’s especially excited about the renewed focus on small businesses and interactive experiences. “I’m a big supporter of small businesses, and I love the idea of creating a space that’s welcoming, lively, and full of energy again. I can’t wait to see it come to life.”
A FUTURE TO LOOK FORWARD TO
The vision for West Ridge Mall is becoming clearer: a dynamic, engaging space where people can shop, dine, gather, and create new memories. AE’s commitment to this project underscores a belief in Topeka’s potential, reinforcing that investing in the community is not just good business—it’s a catalyst for long-term growth and prosperity.
For residents like Kelsey and Chris, West Ridge Mall has always been more than just a mall. Now, thanks to AE’s investment, it will once again be a place where connections are made, stories unfold, and Topeka’s future is shaped—one revitalized storefront at a time.
Renderings provided by Hufft Projects of Kansas City
AE Co-founder Cody Foster says they saw an opportunity to repurpose the mall, breathing life into a structure that has been underutilized in recent years. The goal is to create a premier gathering and shopping destination, complete with top-tier retail, entertainment, and dining options. They are also dedicated to supporting the remaining tenants, providing short-term strategies to increase foot traffic while long-term revitalization efforts take shape.
AE Co-founders: David Callanan & Cody Foster
AE Co-founders: David Callanan & Cody Foster
THE ART OF Investing
Finding Beauty and Value in Topeka’s Local Art Galleries
ARTICLE BY KELSEY HUBER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRISTOL KUMAR PHOTOGRAPHY ARTIST’S PALETTE
When it comes to investing, most people think of stocks, real estate, or retirement funds. But in the heart of Topeka, two gallery owners see art as an investment with its own unique rewards—both financial and deeply personal. Stephen Smith of Stephen Smith Gallery and Bob Swain of Beauchamp's Art Gallery believe that while art can hold monetary value, its greatest return comes in the form of inspiration, connection, and daily joy. Whether you’re looking to diversify your portfolio or simply bring more beauty into your life, these local experts share why investing in art is about so much more than just the numbers.
We spoke to Stephen Smith, owner of Stephen Smith Gallery, who emphasized that patience is key when collecting an artist’s work, as financial returns can take time. Rather than buying for investment purposes, he encourages people to find art that speaks to them and to personally enjoy it while they have it. “Owning and enjoying art goes way beyond the financial rewards,” he said. “When you connect with an artist and their work, and you purchase a piece or two, you’re making a long-term investment in your own joy, inspiration, and encouragement.”
Smith’s personal medium is photography. After years of operating Stephen Smith Images, he reimagined his photography studio into an art gallery in 2018. “Some art galleries are sterile and intimidating,” he shared. “But our gallery is the opposite. It’s very welcoming and warm.” There’s no pressure to buy. In fact, he considers it more like a museum. “Our main purpose isn’t just selling but also displaying. We want visitors to come in, look around, take their time, explore, and discover. When a gallery guest connects to an art piece, we are happy to help them own and display it in their environment.”
Stephen Smith Gallery is located in the historic building at 931 S. Kansas Avenue and dates back to 1888. Its design features original stone, brick, and concrete walls stretching upward to meet tall, ornate tin ceilings. “Artists and visitors alike love the architecture,” Smith said. “It’s simultaneously surprising and soothing.”
Smith shared that the goal of his gallery is to invite new collectors and artists and introduce them to each other, much like introducing friends. “Of course, we also appreciate seasoned artists and collectors, but everyone starts somewhere, and we welcome the curious and encourage new connections,” he said. “Ultimately, it’s thrilling for me to see new creators and collectors connect. It’s not so much about the medium as it is about good human beings realizing their dreams.”
"Wild Blue Red Dog" Artist: Cindy Manry
We also spoke with Bob Swain, owner of Beauchamp's Art Gallery at 3113 SW Huntoon Street in Topeka, and his wife, Kim, are in their 20th year of business. Swain bought the gallery from a previous owner who had established it 30 years prior, making Beauchamp's the oldest continuously operating art gallery in Kansas. A painter himself, Swain decided to buy the studio after retiring from a career in the technology field.
“Bigger markets are more eclectic, but here in Topeka, when it comes to what’s popular, the prairie-related genre— whether modernist, traditional, impressionist, etc.—makes up 75% of our sales,” Swain shared. He surmises that it has something to do with the fact that most people in Topeka are only two or three generations removed from farm life. Historically, landscapes served only as backgrounds for subjects, but they took on a life of their own in the early 1800s. Today, landscapes remain universally popular.
If you’re interested in investing in art—whether for financial or personal enrichment—stop by one of these local galleries or try attending a First Friday Art Walk. It’s a great opportunity to see work from local Topeka artists. “First Fridays make a great date night, too!” - Stephen Smith
On Left: “Morford Hill” Artist: Rodney Troth
ARTIST’S
For those interested in dabbling in art investment, Swain offered these tips:
“Enjoy the art. Artists want to communicate the vision or the truth that they’ve seen. Art is to be enjoyed and shared.”
- Bob Swain
When it comes to purchasing art for profit, Swain noted that very few people buy art solely as an investment. “First of all, it’s a much smaller market than, say, stocks,” he explained. “And it’s not very liquid, meaning it’s hard to turn around and get your money back out quickly.” However, he did mention an online investment platform called Masterworks, which allows investors to buy and trade shares in art from internationally known artists. “It’s appealing for investors who want to diversify their portfolios, and because art typically doesn’t fluctuate with the economy, it’s a good hedge against inflation.”
• Buy from professional, active, working artists who are established. As names become known, the pieces increase in value.
• Have a long-term horizon for resale (ten years or more). Don’t go in with a preconceived timeline for profit.
• Be patient. There’s no way to predict what will become popular and more valuable.
Swain’s top tip for investing in art, however, is to follow your heart. “My best advice for the personal shopper is to buy to enjoy,” he said. “This is something that you will see every day. If the piece speaks to you, buy it.”
ARTICLE BY KRISTY BELLEY
The drink that makes you look forward to TAX DAY
INCOME TAX cocktail
INGREDIENTS:
• 1½ oz. Gin
• ¾ oz. Dry Vermouth
• ¾ oz. Sweet Vermouth
• ¾ oz. Freshly Squeezed Orange Juice
• 2 Dashes Angastura Bitters
• Orange Twist
• Glass Type: Coupe
DIRECTIONS:
1. Squeeze your OJ.
2. Add everything to your shaker with ice.
3. Shake.
4. Pour into your coupe.
5. Twist your orange peel again, like you did last summer.
6. Garnish.
7. Enjoy being done with taxes.
8. And a good cocktail.
The Income Tax Cocktail likely popped up during the Prohibition party scene of the 1920s. Its exact origin story remains a bit blurry, but it was definitely a hit in speakeasies. The name? Well, it's like a cheeky nod to the idea that sipping on this cocktail might be more fun than paying actual taxes! Made with gin, sweet vermouth, orange juice, and a dash of bitters, it's like a boozy adventure for your taste buds, with hints of citrus and herbs. Despite its vintage roots, the Income Tax Cocktail still brings the party vibes, transporting you back to the roaring '20s.
EMILY AUGUSTINE
HAYDEN HIGH SCHOOL
H.S. SENIOR SPOTLIGHT: Hayden Catholic High School and the Topeka community have provided me with precious opportunities to give back. I love my summers helping at Vacation Bible School at my parish since teaching children about the importance of faith and community is a priority of mine. At school, I am involved most heavily in Debate and Forensics, which have nurtured my confidence and enabled me to grow into the person I am today (and given me cool, shiny medals). I plan to attend KU and pursue a degree in behavioral neuroscience.
View Bio online...
3 things to know about Emily
I have a pet bunny named Rexy, who is the best study buddy.
I read a lot. My favorite author right now is Murakami.
I always prefer listening to music on CDs. My collection is extensive and always growing.
BILLY LANICH
CAIR PARAVEL LATIN SCHOOL
H.S. SENIOR SPOTLIGHT:
I am a football player and in my free time when I’m not studying or working on my sport, I play video games with close friends and eat unhealthy amounts of food. My other interests include Marvel, particularly Spider-Man and basketball. My favorite class is Science and Theology.
3 things to know about Billy
I can bench 280 pounds.
I love Spider-Man.
I have played football since the 7th grade.
This Senior Spotlight Made Possible By
Photos provided by Hayden HS
View Bio online...
Photos provided by Cair Paravel Latin School
PHOEBE BRODINE
SEAMAN H.S.
H.S. SENIOR SPOTLIGHT: I'm very active at our high school, including my current roles as Key Club President and Student Council Secretary. I'm also part of Viking Brew, Viking Crew, Suicide Prevention Club, National Honor Society and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. I have served as head section leader in the Marching Vikes Drumline, and I've participated in volleyball, basketball and softball for four years. I have a small business selling custom-made wood vases, and I plan to attend Washburn Tech to learn Cabinetry & Millwork, and then study further in the Electrical program.
View Bio online...
3 things to know about Phoebe
I've worked at the school coffee shop, Viking Brew, for four years, but I don't like coffee. 1. I was born in Vietnam, and my family spent 10 days there over Christmas exploring, eating, and shopping! 2.
All of my spare money goes toward Sonic drinks, Legos, and my 80-pound dog (Marvin). 3.
PARKER WILLIAMS
WASHBURN RURAL HIGH SCHOOL
H.S. SENIOR SPOTLIGHT: I am extremely passionate about STEM education and strive to provide opportunities for elementary and middle schoolers through the Computer Science Honor Society, of which I am Co-President. Additionally, I founded the WRHS Car Club to spread inclusion and create a community for students to come together over a shared interest. I plan on attending Kansas State University to pursue a degree in Mechanical Engineering and to continue leading initiatives in college and beyond to further support my community.
View Bio online...
3 things to know about Parker
I restored a 1969 Ford Mustang Mach 1 with my father when I was in middle school. 1. I am a nationally certified Mustang Club of America Concours Judge for 1969-1970. 2.
I can name every song released by The Beatles. 3.
of
This Senior Spotlight Made Possible By
Photos provided by Washburn Rural HS
This Senior Spotlight Made Possible By
Photos provided by Seaman HS
FAMILY TIME is the Best Investment
EAT DINNER TOGETHER AS A FAMILY.
This meaningful time around the table is where connections happen. Let everyone share good moments from the day or something they struggled with. Create a jar of conversation starters, exchange giggles and cook up something delicious.
CREATE SURPRISES
Everyone likes to feel special – and surprised. The littlest things make the biggest impact: A backyard picnic; a sleepover in an indoor fort; an after-school ice cream treat; a bathroom spa day.
CREATE FAMILY TRADITIONS
Build weekly or monthly traditions – movie nights with popcorn, board game marathons, a gratitude jar, evening bike rides, living room dance parties,
even a family book club to discover old favorites and new reads.
EXPRESS LOVE AND GRATITUDE
In busy seasons, it’s easy to forget to let a loved one feel appreciated and thought of. Tuck a hand-written note in a lunch box or give an unexpected hug; spend time sharing what you’re thankful for about them.
KEEP GENERATIONS LINKED
Consider Sunday meals with grandparents or weekly phone calls if distance separates. Invite them to share their childhood stories and treasured memories. Start a yearly family scrapbook filled with favorite photographs and vacation souvenirs.
realty report
GET INSPIRED EAT & DRINK SHOP LOCAL
APRIL 18TH - 20TH
The Flyover Cornhole Tournament
Stormont Vail Events Center
Get ready for The Flyover Open Cornhole Tournament at Stormont Vail Events Center! This three-day indoor event welcomes all skill levels, from backyard players to seasoned pros, with $20,000 in guaranteed payouts. Don’t miss the Corporate Challenge, where businesses compete for bragging rights! For more information visit stormontvaileventscenter.com/ events/2025/the-flyover-opencornhole-tournament
APRIL 25TH
Hairball
Stormont Vail Events Center
7:00 PM — 10:00 PM
V100 presents Hairball: The Bombastic Celebration of Arena Rock, returning to Topeka on Friday, April 25 at Stormont Vail Events Center! Experience electrifying performances recreating legendary bands like KISS, AC/DC, Van Halen, and more. Tickets available now at the Cable Dahmer Box Office and Ticketmaster. Don’t miss out! For more information visit stormontvaileventscenter.com/ events/2025/hairball
PRESENTS
MORE INFO
APR 25
Prepare to be blown away by electrifying performances that deliver spoton recreations of legendary bands like KISS, AC/DC, Van Halen, Motley Crue, and more. It’s not just a concert—it’s like witnessing 20 epic shows all in one unforgettable night!
