Loving Our Golden City, Its People And Its Treasured History
As February rolls around, love is in the air - and not just the romantic kind. This month in our Love Local issue, we’re celebrating a different kind of connection: the love we share for the vibrant local businesses, generous individuals, and our Golden City’s rich history.
Recently, I took a trip to the capitol building and the strangest thing happened. We were in the library and I spied a book on an easel titled “Diary of a Waitress: The Not-So-Glamorous Life of a Harvey Girl” by Carolyn Meyer. I was immediately overcome with a strange sensation - like that book and I shared some kind of otherworldly connection. I can’t really explain it. There was no one there so I couldn’t check the book out. Over the next month or so, the book continued to call to me and wouldn’t let me go. Finally, I found it online.
While reading it, I was amazed at how many connections I had with the story. It mentioned El Paso, a town I lived in for some years, and Albuquerque, another place from my past. While fictional, it was based on historical facts from the late 1800s. It told the story of The Harvey House Restaurants, (the first of which was located in downtown Topeka). Read the article for yourself in the pages of this month's 50th issue.
Why had this book spoken to me? I was struck when I realized the amazing history it revealed about Topeka, which I have known for years now, yet had no idea the secrets it held. Isn’t that the way it goes? People who live by majestic mountains take them for granted. Those who reside by the sea forget the beauty of the beach. There are treasures in Topeka under our noses that are obscured by the fabric of familiarity.
I found this book in the Capitol building - a building that is one of the most beautiful state capitols in the country (I know this because my nephew is a lobbyist and after seeing many, told me Topeka’s capitol is among the very best). I think the universe somehow wanted me to read this book, meet the young girl named Kitty from Leavenworth, and experience the history of Topeka through fresh eyes so that I could appreciate the treasure that Topeka is…and share it with you!
Warm regards,
February 2025
PUBLISHER
Brian Rodehorst | brian.rodehorst@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Kathy Graham | kathy.graham@citylifestyle.com
STAFF WRITERS
Linda Ditch | lindaaditch@gmail.com
Kelsey Huber | khuber2@gmail.com
Amanda Knowland | amandalanum@gmail.com
STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS
Kristol Kumar | kristol@kristolkumar.com
Lindsey Wagers | info@wagersphotography.com
Create Uplift | info@createuplift.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Teryl Studebaker
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
KATHY GRAHAM, EDITOR @TOPEKALIFESTYLE
business monthly
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Calhoun’s Jewelers
ERSONALIZED S ERVICE, EXPER
Calhoun’s Jewelers has been a trusted name in Topeka for over two decades. Known for their exceptional craftsmanship, personalized service, and stunning collections. Calhoun’s specializes in creating timeless pieces for every occasion. Their expert team ensures every customer feels valued and heard. We asked four of those team members to choose a favorite piece to share. On the next few pages, read why these pieces – and Calhoun’s – are special to them.
ARTICLE BY AMANDA KNOWLAND PHOTOGRAPHY BY KRISTOL KUMAR PHOTOGRAPHY
Deb Tenpenny, Sales Associate, chose to feature an 18k gold freeform diamond ring from Calhoun’s collection.
“I have had my eye on this ring for quite some time,” Deb says. “I love the solid gold, contemporary style of the ring. It would be stunning with a casual outfit or dressed up.”
18k gold conveys quality and exclusivity while also being durable enough for most people to wear daily. There are four factors to consider when choosing a diamond: cut, color, clarity, and carat. This ring’s .75 carat, stunning diamond helps it stand out as a truly special piece.
Deb Tenpenny
Deb worked with high fashion jewelry for 23 years before joining the Calhoun’s team.
“I ran my own business putting together clothing ensembles and jewelry combinations for clients,” she says. After that, her friend, Debbie, called Deb to see if she would work for her at Calhoun’s.
“I enjoy working with the other employees and seeing familiar faces when they come into the store,” Deb shares. “Calhoun’s is a special place because of its local ownership, personal touch, and excellent craftsmanship.”
Manny Hernandez
Manny’s childhood love for watches and jewelry never dissipated. He decided to pursue that passion in adulthood, making the move from a job in real estate to a career at Calhoun’s.
“For every sale you have, you meet someone new and get at least one good laugh,” Manny says of the job. “I feel like it’s a big family.”
Manny says the experience and personal service Calhoun’s gives its customers is special. “The first thing we want to do is get to know them and how we can help,” he says. “We get to know their story.”
Manny Hernandez, Sales Associate, modeled the Rolex Submariner Bluesy. In fact, it was a Rolex that inspired Manny’s love for fine watches and jewelry. This timeless, pre-owned Rolex features a vibrant blue dial with matching ceramic bezel and two-tone 18k yellow gold and steel band.
“I had a friend whose dad had that watch,” Manny recalls. “My friend and I both saved up all our money and told each other we were going to buy a Rolex and share it. We both worked really hard and saved enough money to each get one. That was special.”
Tonya Schreiber, Designer/Jeweler, chose a 14k yellow gold ring with Alexandrites and diamonds. Alexandrites are unique gemstones that appear to change color in different lighting. In natural light, they look purple or red. In incandescent light, they appear more teal or deep green. The Alexandrites in this specific ring are all natural, creating a mesmerizing color variation from stone to stone.
“Even though I know a lot of thought went into the layout of the stones, it feels very natural,” Tonya says, “like something that grew in a garden or washed up on some gorgeous beach.”
Tonya Schreiber
Tonya joined Calhoun’s after working for a small regional chain of jewelry stores in the Pacific Northwest. Having grown up in Kansas, Tonya knew it was time to return home to pursue a more hands-on, creative role in the jewelry industry.
“Everyone here listens to and supports each other,” Tonya says of the Calhoun’s team. “We're different in personality and background, but instead of that being a barrier, it allows us to do and make much cooler creations than we could alone.”
Hartley Reynolds
Hartley’s family has been long-time customers of Calhoun’s, which inspired her to apply for a job at the store when she was looking for work. She says one of her favorite things about the job is the people she works with. As for what makes Calhoun’s special, she echoes the sentiments of her co-workers.
“It’s a family business,” she says, “so they treat you like family, whether you’re an employee or a customer.”
Opals are a favorite of Hartley Reynolds, Sales Associate, so it’s no wonder she chose this unique opal pendant to feature.
“I believe the opal was found at a gem show. Tonya created the piece after a vote on Facebook as to what it should be made into,” Hartley said, noting that she likes the abstract look of the oneof-a-kind piece.
Opals are a type of precious gemstone that are typically transparent, which allows for small points of shifting color. The birthstone for those born in October, Opals are primarily sourced from Australia and Ethiopia.
Visit Calhoun’s Jewelers online at calhounsjewelers.com or in person at 1801 SW Gage Blvd.
YOUR ONE-STOP SHOP FOR AUTOMOTIVE CUSTOMIZATIONS - WHERE EVERY RIDE IS AN EXPRESSION OF INDIVIDUALITY
MAD VIKING CUSTOMS
You never know where life will take you, but one thing is for sure…you gotta enjoy the ride! Sometimes you’re tooling down life’s road and you meet someone - just happenstance, really - and you become business acquaintances, then professional friends, then genuine friends, and then you realize you share more than the same road. You share interests, beliefs, and passions. Before you know it, you share a business. So goes the story of Mad Viking Customs.
Zach had started CoolVu Window Tinting, but the pair stayed in touch. A couple of months later, John suggested a partnership - Zach had the tools and the know-how, John was looking for a new venture after working in the construction/drywall industry, and they both shared a passion for customizing vehicles. The timing was right and Mad Viking Customs was born in November 2023.
“We are kind of a one-stop shop for automotive work,” Zach said.
“WE’RE KIND OF A ONE-STOP SHOP FOR
AUTOMOTIVE WORK,” - ZACH WAGERS
Several years ago, Zach Wagers worked for a company that performed custom work on vehicles. John Harris took his truck in for various custom jobs - a bed topper, side steps, and a custom computer screen for navigation. Impressed with his attention to detail, Zach quickly became John’s go-to man for custom work. “I was the only one he would trust with his truck,” Zach laughed.
Zach eventually moved on and started another company. When John noticed he was gone, he looked him up.
From dent removal, paint chip repair, ceramic coatings, and window tinting to electronics like audio, remote starts, radar, dash cams, and rock lights to truck gear and accessories like bed covers and side steps, Mad Viking has it all. They even do auto repair and maintenance like tune-ups, oil and brake changes, and engine rebuilds. But their passion lies in the restorations.
“My favorite jobs are the custom restorations where we have to use our brains to tear it down and build it back up. We’re working on fabricating a bed
frame for a ‘46 Ford truck right now,” Zach shared. “We both have a soft spot for trucks.” These projects are where their slogan - “Where Rides Become Legends” truly comes to life, blending craftsmanship, innovation, and individuality into every job. “Every vehicle is as unique as its owner,” Zach explained. “Each custom job is an opportunity to create a piece of art…a piece of art with four wheels and an engine that can be driven down the road. It’s the best job ever!”
“I can’t believe it’s already been a year,” Zach said. “I couldn’t ask for a better business partner. I was looking to build a business that I could pass down to my kids one day and it turns out, so was John.” Zach and his wife Lindsey have five sons and a daughter. “John’s son already works for us and my boys always beg to come to the shop. It’s really like one big family,” Zach laughed. “My kids call him ‘Uncle John’. We both feel lucky to be doing what we love and building a legacy for our kids.”
When it comes to protecting, maintaining, or customizing your vehicle, trust Mad Viking Customs. If you’d like to learn more about truck and automotive customizations, stop by or call. Mad Viking Customs is located at 805 N. Kansas Avenue in the NOTO Arts & Entertainment District. (785) 329-5091 FB @MadVikingCustoms
The Life of a Harvey Girl
Women Were the Key Component of the Fred Harvey Dining Empire
A great deal of romance and nostalgia is wrapped up in the image of train travel. Topeka's railroad history was one of the reasons I fell in love with the city when I moved here almost 15 years ago. As a food writer, I was especially intrigued by Fred Harvey. He transformed dining for rail passengers with the creation of Harvey Houses, which were lunchrooms, restaurants and hotels that dotted the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe rail lines. His dining dynasty started here in the Capitol City.
In the early days of rail travel, there were no dining cars. Passengers had to bring their own food or eat at ramshackle eateries located at water stops, where the trains would restock their water and coal supplies along the route. These establishments were notorious for bad food, filthy conditions, and expensive prices. It was common for slow service to cause customers to abandon their paid-for meal (or never receive it!) or risk missing the train's departure.
Then, along came Fred Harvey. He opened his first lunchroom at the Santa Fe Depot in Topeka in 1876. In the following decades, Harvey House restaurants became known for delicious food, clean settings, and excellent service. Every table had white tablecloths, beautiful dinnerware, and a red rose as the centerpiece. Eventually, Harvey owned 65 restaurants, 60 dining cars, 12 large hotels, and all the restaurants and retail shops in five of the nation's largest stations.
In the early years, Harvey House servers were men. However, they were prone to altercations with customers, so Harvey decided to go with women servers instead. This was a controversial choice because being a waitress was considered one of the lowest professions for women, just slightly better than prostitution.
However, Harvey Girls were different. Advertisements for the job listed being of good character, attractive and intelligent as job requirements. The women, ages 18-30, signed a contract to work six, nine or twelve months, stating they would not wear makeup or jewelry and not marry for at least a year. They lived in a boarding house with a house mother and had an 11 p.m. curfew. The pay was good for the times, and since food, uniforms and housing were included, most women could save a nice nest egg or send the money home to help support their families.
ARTICLE BY LINDA DITCH |
Recently, Topeka City Lifestyle's editor, Kathy Graham, introduced me to the book Diary of a Waitress: The Not-So-Glamorous Life of a Harvey Girl by Carolyn Meyer. In it, we follow the journey of Katherine "Kitty" Evans from her family home in Leavenworth, Kansas, out west as a Harvey Girl. Her fictional story is in line with factual accounts of the real life of these women, from the job interview at Union Station in Kansas City to thirty days of training in a Kansas Harvey House (often in Topeka) and then moving on to locations in the West.
It was hard work being a Harvey Girl. They toiled 12 hours a day, six to seven days a week. Their shifts were often split to accommodate the meal trains, which arrived two to three times a day and stopped for 30 minutes. In that time frame, orders were taken, a threecourse meal served, and then diners were sent back to their train. Between meal service, the
women polished silverware and ensured their stations were spotless. Each wore the traditional uniform of black skirts, high-collared shirts, and white aprons and bibs. If they got the slightest stain on their outfit, they had to immediately change into a clean one.
Many Harvey Girls went on to marry men they met along the way or to use their money for school and new careers. In Meyer's novel, Harvey Girl Kitty, who dreams of being a journalist, serves navy bean soup to renowned editor William Allen White while training in Emporia. He encourages her and even gives her his card.
As a writer and admirer of White's, this was one of the book's highlights for me, which is why I've included the soup recipe for you to make at home. Try serving it in Harvey Girl-style, with shiny cutlery, sparkling glassware, and fine china.
OLD-FASHIONED NAVY BEAN SOUP
Adapted from The Harvey House Cookbook by George H.
Foster
and Peter C. Weiglin
Ingredients (Serves 12)
• 2 cups navy beans
• 2 quarts water
• 1 cup diced ham or ham bone
• 2 small garlic cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup butter
• 6 slices bacon, diced
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup chopped carrot
• 2/3 cup chopped celery
• 2 cups diced tomato
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
Directions
Rinse the beans and place them in a large soup pot or Dutch oven. Cover with the water and let soak overnight.
The next day, add the ham to the pot with the beans and water. Heat to boiling, and then cover the pot and reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the beans cook for three hours.
Finely mince the garlic. Melt the butter in a skillet and add the garlic, salt, bacon, and onion. Sauté until the onion is tender and starting to brown, and the bacon is crisp. Add the flour and cook for two minutes while constantly stirring. Add the mixture to the beans with the carrots and celery. Simmer for 30 minutes. Add the tomatoes and cook for an additional 15 minutes. Add the milk and pepper just before serving.
RESOURCES
• National Fred Harvey Museum, Leavenworth, KS, firstcitymuseumslhma.com
• Harvey House Museum, Florence, KS, florenceks.com
• Belen Harvey House Museum, Belen, NM, harveyhousemuseum.org
• The Harvey Girls: Women Who Opened the West, by Lesley Poling-Kemps
• Appetite for America: Fred Harvey and the Business of Civilizing the Wild West--One Meal at a Time, by Stephen Fried
Photo by Kristol Kumar Photography Fred Harvey
realty report
PUTTING SNEAKERS ON FEET AND SMILES ON FACES
Sole Reason
ARTICLE BY AMANDA KNOWLAND | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
“
“A new pair of sneakers can change a child’s life.”
- Jerry Hudgins
In 2015, Jerry Hudgins was working 12-hour shifts at a warehouse when he read a church bulletin seeking volunteers for Catholic Charities. The message stuck with him, though he felt he was too busy to help. But then he remembered a pastor from his youth, David Ring, who had cerebral palsy. Ring’s message resonated: “I have cerebral palsy. What’s your excuse?”
Those words moved Jerry to action. He began volunteering at Catholic Charities, working with his friend Ping Enriguez to collect food for the pantry. After witnessing a family in need with holes in their shoes, Jerry realized he could do more: provide proper footwear to those in need. Thus, Sole Reason was born in 2016.
A COMMUNITY MOVEMENT
It began as a grassroots effort, collecting gently used sneakers for those in need. To start, Jerry and Ping collected 3,000 sneakers. Ping suggested they use Facebook to promote their new program. A woman in Andover, Kansas saw their post and reached out for help with a fundraiser to get a service dog for her autistic child. The fundraiser involved collecting shoes, with the proceeds based on their weight. Sole Reason’s massive donation helped the family reach their goal and get the dog!
Sole Reason began gaining sponsors and shifted its focus to providing only new sneakers to children. To date, the organization has distributed more than 9,200 pairs of sneakers with support from 38 sponsors.
“Our mission is ‘Putting Sneakers on Feet and Smiles on Faces,’” Jerry says. “A new pair of sneakers can change a child’s life.”
MORE THAN FOOTWEAR
For children, new shoes may mean a source of belonging, self-esteem, or relief from physical pain. Jerry vividly remembers delivering sneakers to a child wearing shoes two sizes too small, causing constant pain. In another instance, he brought shoes to three kids whose old pairs were unwearable.
Most of the recipients come from single-parent households or families living below the national poverty line. By partnering with schools, social workers, and teachers, Sole Reason donations reach those most in need.
“A lot of times, the new sneakers these kids receive are the only new things they get all year,” Jerry explains.
COMMUNITY SUPPORT
Organizations like the 20/30 Club of Topeka, Advisors Excel, the Topeka Community Foundation, Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation, and Lewis Toyota have been instrumental in Sole Reason’s success. The organization also relies on dedicated board members and volunteers who share Jerry’s passion for serving others. The organization is also largely successful due to his wife Becky’s support.
Jerry – who still works a 12-hour shift job outside of Sole Reason – recognizes the team effort. “We definitely could not do what we do without the community support.”
Sole Reason also runs a used footwear program, collecting gently used shoes—free of holes—from local drop-off sites or through pickups. The shoes are sent to a nationwide program, cleaned and sent to families in Third World countries. In return, Sole Reason receives funding that helps sustain its efforts.
HOW TO GET INVOLVED
Each year, Sole Reason hosts a fun event at the Boys & Girls Club where they give away sneakers. They are also seeking businesses, churches, or individuals to partner with them and a van to assist with pickups and deliveries. Fundraisers are held throughout the year, with the largest being a two-day golf tournament in June.
To support Sole Reason visit FB @SoleReasonforkids or solereason.net.
AVA HARRISON
HAYDEN HIGH SCHOOL
H.S. SENIOR SPOTLIGHT: I’ve lived in Topeka my entire life, and I attended school at Most Pure Heart of Mary. At Hayden, I am involved in band, Wildcat Writers, GRACE, and theater. I am blessed with an amazing family that has always encouraged me to be my best self and supported me no matter what. They continue to support me as I look forward to going onto college and plan to major in biological systems engineering.
View Bio online...
3 things to know about Ava
1. At home, I am often called the name of my lovable and goofy dog, Remi! 2. Before I go to bed, I thank God for at least three things that have happened that day.
Recently I performed in Hayden’s production of The Little Mermaid as Scuttle!
BRYSON LEON
CAIR PARAVEL LATIN SCHOOL
H.S. SENIOR SPOTLIGHT: I have lived in Topeka all my life and have attended Cair Paravel Latin School since 2nd grade. I have acted in all of my school’s dramas and musicals since my freshman year. My favorite musical is Ruddigore. I take great pride in my art and you may see some of my paintings on display in the school. In my free time, I like to tinker with various machines and electronics. I like to repair and build computers. I also have a minor interest in video editing. I plan to attend Washburn University to study computer science. View Bio online...
3 things to know about Bryson
I’ve done karate for 7 years at Moore’s Martial Arts Academy. I’m working towards my Jr. Black Belt and help mentor younger students.
I enjoy volunteering at Bethel Baptist Church’s Vacation Bible School each summer.
I enjoy pondering moral & political dilemmas. My favorite class is Great Ideas at CPLS.
This Senior Spotlight Made Possible By
This Senior Spotlight Made Possible By
FEBRUARY 14TH - 15TH
GT Arena Motocross @ SVEC
Stormont Vail Events Center | 7:00 PM
GT Arena Motocross will return to the Stormont Vail Events Center in February 2025! GT Arena Motocross is one of the most extreme racing environments in the world with top professional and amateur athletes competing on man-made, custom-designed tracks built inside the country's most well-known arenas. More info at https://arenamotocross.com
FEBRUARY 21ST - 23RD
Arab Shrine Circus @ SVEC
Stormont Vail Events Center | Show times vary
Get ready for jaw-dropping acrobatics, hilarious clowns, and mesmerizing acts as the Arab Shrine Circus rolls into town. Five thrilling performances to choose from, making it easy to find the perfect time for family fun! Don’t miss one of America’s longest-running circus traditions – an unforgettable experience for all ages! https://arabshriners.org/circus
KATELYNN NORRIS
WASHBURN RURAL HIGH SCHOOL
H.S. SENIOR SPOTLIGHT: I’m an International Baccalaureate Program Candidate and am involved in a lot of things at WRHS and in the community, but I’m most proud of being the 20242025 Student Council President. I enjoy spending time with my family, going to youth group at Town and Country, and reading anything historical or political. Next year I plan to double major in political science and psychology on the pre-law track. I aspire to be a constitutional lawyer, US Senator, and President of the United States.
View Bio online...
3 things to know about Katelynn
1.
2.
I’ve been to Rancho del Cielo twice and have met President Reagan’s son, Michael!
I know all of the words to “We Didn’t Start the Fire” by Billy Joel and the entire “Hamilton: The Musical” soundtrack.
If you show me any outline of any country, I can tell you what it is. 3.
ANNA BECKER
SEAMAN H.S.
H.S. SENIOR SPOTLIGHT: I am a very involved student and participate in various clubs, the main one being Spirit Club, which I am the president of. I love sports and being outdoors I currently participate in basketball and soccer both of which I have had leadership roles in since I was a freshman. I am highly competitive no matter the game or activity, which has to do with me being the oldest and having 3 siblings. View Bio online...
3 things to know about Anna
1. I grew up playing many sports, mainly soccer, basketball, and softball. Last year I committed to playing basketball at Drake University, D1.
3.
I have been a soccer referee since 7th grade. I have been at Sunflower Soccer in rain, snow, and sun and have learned referee uniforms leave quite the tan lines.
2. I’m outgoing and love to support others. I’m always in the student section cheering on my siblings and friends. I was voted spirit princess for participation in events outside my sports.
Possible By
Repair, Tire Sales, Tire Services 2625 N.W. Rochester Road (785) 215-8800
This Senior Spotlight Made
