Topeka’s guide to art, entertainment, lifestyle + local flavor
Songs + Songwriters Top CITY ARTISTS ON love, LIFE + loss.
FREE don’t fret it
Vol. VI Issue VI March 1 - April 15, 2012
NEW CITY KNOWS LUNCH
DOWNTOWN TOPEKA
St.Patrick’s Day HEADQUARTERS 2012
THE CELTIC FOX
OPEN @ 8 am Gage Shopping Center & NOW in Downtown Topeka 715 S. Kansas Ave LUNCH:
11 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. | M - F
4005 Gage Center Drive
LUNCH: 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. | M - F DINNER: 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. | M - Th 5:30 - 9:30 p.m. | Fri & Sat
“The ultimate dining experience.”
Celtic Fox is Irish. Festivities all day include traditional Irish food, a large selection of Irish beers and entertainment.
BLOCK PARTY
The party isn’t confined to our brick walls. The street will be closed and The Office will be rockin’ for the largest St. Patrick’s Day Party in Topeka.
Gage: 271.8646 • Downtown 215.8141 newcityonline.biz | Friend US on Facebook
Upcoming Events for YPs InsIders serIes Members FREE / Guests $10
Wednesday, March 7 | 11:30 am - 1 pm
Governor’s Mansion / Meet the First Lady and take a tour of the grounds.
Wednesday, April 11 | 5:30 - 7 pm
Jeffrey Energy Center | 25905 Jeffrey Rd. St. Mary’s
Monthly networkIng socIals Members FREE / Guests $5 / 5- 7 pm / Thursday
March 15: jones huyett Partners 3200 SW Huntoon
April 26: Sports Car Club of America 6700 SW Topeka Blvd. Bldg 300 B
yP suMMIt | aPrIl 5
Ramada Convention Center | 8 am - 5 pm | $55 / $25 for lunch only Fast Forward is hosting the state-wide YP Summit complete with breakout sessions and keynote luncheon speaker Eric Alexander. For more info and to register go to ypkansas.com
Fast Forward is a program of the Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce designed to offer young professionals a place to socialize, network and grow in leadership potential through a variety of yearly programs. For more information or to RSVP:
fastforwardtopeka.org
seveneightfive magazine
Publisher/Owner
March 1 - April 15, 2012 | Vol. VI Issue VI
Kerrice Mapes kerrice@seveneightfive.com
| in this issue |
Poetry Editor
Dennis Etzel Jr. poemslyrical@yahoo.com
Weekender Editor
Rio Cervantes-Reed
Lifestyle
Marketing Specialist
7 serendipity - a truly unique venue 22 very radical dudes 25 big plans for jayhawk theatre 26 couture for cancer
Rio Cervantes-Reed rio@seveneightfive.com
Advertising
Kerrice Mapes + Rio Cervantes-Reed
Layout / Illustrations
Aymen Ghali Amanda Reynolds Kerrice Mapes
LOCAL FLAVOR
writers
Tommy Anderson Amber Bonnett Robin Cremer Tony Davis Dennis Etzel Jr. Cale Herreman Larissa Keller Gary Piland Matt Porubsky Patrick Porubsky Rio Cervantes-Reed Kevin Reed Josh Rouse Melissa Sewell Boone Smith Macie Smith Regina Stephenson Michelle Ullom Tom Wah Janice Watkins Erin Wynkoop
photography
Tiffany Bonnewell EJ Drake Amber Farmer Adam Koger Gary Krohe Colin MacMillan Amber O’Dell Josh Rouse
Distribution
Rio Cervantes-Reed Larissa Keller Jill Lira Kara Garcia
Business
Liz Bell
Copy Editing
advertisers AO Productions (19) ArtsConnect (17) Backs By Popular Demand (left) Blue Planet Cafe (16) College Hill Tavern (3) Debonaire’s (4) Envy Salon (25) Fast Forward (left) Flying Monkey (23) Nathan Ham Photography (inside back) New City Cafe (left) Pigskins / Boss Hawgs (back cover) Reed’s Lakeside / Ringside (24) Rowhouse Restaurant (3) Seafood Thyme (25) Ben Swinnen & Associates (12) Tailgator’s (23) The Celtic Fox (left) The Dutch Goose (17) The Topeka Symphony (2) Topeka Civic Theatre (2) Warehouse 414 (2)
3 artichoke bisque - Blue Moose 4 BEER: ale alchemist + mug shot 24 thyme for seafood 28 where do you get your moxie ARTS + ENTERTAINMENT
8 songs + songwriters - top city artists 13 movies at home: movie magic 14 the rockstar photographer 16 black solo cup 18 5Q: Faces for Radio 19 future music scene 27 art after words
D. O’Brien
Bar WArs
Jared Hitchens
seveneightfive is a free lifestyle magazine highlighting entertainment, art, local businesses + more in Topeka. Disclaimer: seveneightfive strives for accuracy in all of our materials, regrets errors, but cannot be held responsible. We recommend contacting venues to confirm dates and events (sometimes they change).
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send a check to: P.O. Box 750491 Topeka, KS 66675 Subscribe online:
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|on the cover| Aymen Ghali Encore! We couldn’t help but ask Aymen Ghali to flex his design muscles once again and design this issue’s cover, appropriately featuring a story on Topeka songwriters. Aymen is lead guitarist for Soul Rebel and the Beast and teaches private music lessons at Manning Music. Make sure to see him St. Patrick’s Day at College Hill or during the All Star Jam on Wednesdays. photo by Nique Prokop | www.THErockstarphotographer.com
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The Topeka Symphony presents:
Cinema Classics
3028 SW 8th Ave. | Box Office: 357-5211 www.topekacivictheatre.com Follow Us on Facebook
TCTA’s Own Improvisational Comedy Troupe
March 10
An evening of music from blockbuster movies featuring Lillian Sengpiehl, soprano. Christopher Kelts, Conductor
Fabulous Finale
Warning: Contains adult humor.
Cold drinks. Belly laughs. Good times. APRIL 6 & 7 | $10 | 7PM
April 14
John Strickler, Conductor Tchaikovsky: Piano Concerto No. 1 Julius Kim, piano Shostakovich: Symphony No. 5
All Shows 7:30 pm | White Concert Hall For tickets call: 785-232-2032 topekasymphony.org
a high style home furnishings store with an eclectic mix of new designs, antiques and vintage pieces... a high style home furnishings store with an eclectic mix of new designs, antiques andavintage pieces... storefront with new online
with a new online storefront www.warehouse414.com www.warehouse414.com 414 south east second street | 785.232.8008 Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday: 11a - 5:30 p 414 south east Friday second&street | 785.232.8008 By chance or appointment Tuesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday: 11a - 5:30 p By chance or appointment 2
menu proc
menu proclamation • one item worth talking about
by Rio Cervantes-Reed
artichoke bisque
I
f someone tells you they love rainy Kansas days, there must be an extraordinary reason for that love. I found one of those reasons to be the Artichoke Bisque at the Blue Moose Bar and Grill.
LIVE MUSIC
T ueSday : S ongwriTer S eSSionS w edneSday : a ll S Tar J am F riday : k araoke
Dr in k it Up !
Visit our Fb for more up coming events.
St . Pa tri ck ’s Da y
C H T S Ty le : P
a r k in g
loT
S l o w Ya R o l lP
Soul Rebel &
a rT y
The Beast
1616 SW 17th St. 785.234.0700 rockinthehillnow.com
College Hill
THE plaCE To bE
coming soon For many, the experience with the artichoke may be the woody, rough pieces encountered from time to time in a dish of spinachartichoke dip. You’ll have none of that here. The artichoke is blended into a creamy sauce, with steamed tomatoes lending a soft pink hue, like the sunset you won’t see on a rainy day. The delicate flavor of green onions evoke fresh cut grass wafting across your nose. The soup is topped off with a nightcap of sorts: a small piece of crostini setting off an intoxicating blend of goat and blue cheese, floating perfectly atop the soup. With the Artichoke Bisque, every day, rainy or dry, can be a perfect day. The Artichoke Bisque is available for $4.99 in a bowl, or $2.99 in a cup. Blue Moose Bar and Grill is located at 3030 SW Wanamaker. They are open daily for lunch, dinner and drinks, and serve brunch on Sundays from 10a-2p. aseveneightfive
Blue Moose Bar and Grill
FRESH: Recipes from RowHouse These recipes came to the plate here in our little kitchen. All of the pictures are of our plates just like they are served—no stunt doubles, no pretend food. It was all made with a lot of love, a little luck and a pinch of salt. greg fox | owner of RowHouse
3030 SW Wanamaker Rd. 272-6800 View full menu and daily specials at www.thebluemoosebarandgrill.com
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Debonaire’s All Types of Hair
Barber
Shop 611 SE Carnahan Ave. 611 SE Carnahan Ave
233-7626 233-7626
Lewis: 230-2612 8:30am -5:30pm Tues - Thur Michael: 250-2395 7am5:30pm Fri - Sat 8:30am - 5:30pm: Tues - Thur 7am - 5:30pm: Fri - Sat
ale alchemist + mug shot • it’s all about the beer
Debonaire’s
beer+
how to make extract homebrew 120210
ale alchemist with patrick porubsky Chemical Curator University of Kansas
S
o far I have been under the assumption that you know how to make homebrew. If you don’t, below is a brief description of the process. I hope that more seveneightfive readers will join us this year and get started on their first batch. How to homebrew
make
extract
Take stock of what you have. These are the contents of a standard 90 shilling scottish ale kit. Today I am livening it up with an extra 1.5 lb of honey and 1 oz of cluster bittering hops. The hardware you will need is a kettle of at least 4 gallons and a fermenter (5 or 6 gallon bucket or carboy). Kits like this are available at your local brew shop or at online venders. Steep the grains. Add about 4 gallons of cold water to the brew kettle. Add grain to a straining bag and heat water until it reaches 180F. Remove strain bag and heat to boil. Add malt extract. Remove kettle from heat and add the liquid and dry malt extract. Stir until completely dissolved. This is the source that most of the sugar that will be converted by the yeast to carbon dioxide and alcohol. Return to heat until boiling. Add hops. Add a measured quantity of hops to the boiling “wort.” This will give your beer its bitter character. The “wort” will boil for 60 minutes. After the time is up, an additional amount of hops is added to give the floral hop flavor and sent. While you are just sitting around drinking beer and waiting for your boil to get done, you should take the opportunity to sterilize your fermenter.
Sterilize the fermenter. There are many commercial products for sterilizing homebrew equipment. The important thing is to get one that does not require you to rinse out the sterilizer before you add your wort. This is the most important step of the process. Good tasting beer comes from clean and sterile equipment. Cool the wort. This can be done a number of ways. The cheapest method is just capping the brew kettle with a lid and setting it in a sink full of ice water. There are many other ways of cooling that are much faster but this does the trick. Pitch the yeast. Once the wort has cooled to ~70 degrees, then you can transfer it to your fermenter and add your yeast. Attach a sterilized airlock to the top of the fermenter. This will allow carbon dioxide to escape but prevent bacteria from entering. You let the yeast do its thing for between two and six weeks (even longer for strong beers). Rack and bottle. After fermentation is complete, the flat beer is transferred to a bottling bucket where a precise amount of dry malt extract or corn sugar is added. The beer is then bottled and the small amount of additional sugar is converted to carbon dioxide and alcohol, carbonating the beer. It is ready to drink about two weeks later. I will let you know how this Scottish Ale turns out next month. Hopefully you will have the interest to brew your first batch soon. Bottoms up my friends. aseveneightfive Patrick is a Topeka native with chemistry degrees from Washburn and KU. He currently works as compound curator and purification chemist at KU and is an part-time adjunct professor at Washburn. He loves spending time at his family’s deli with his wife, son and little one on the way.
mug shot
A quick word about beers found around town. by Kevin Reed
st. murphy’s day
D
ue to the fact that February has 29 days this year, St. Patrick’s Day gets pushed to a Saturday. For most of us, a clever, creative way to get out of work is no longer a prerequisite. Since we are no longer weighed down with such a burden, let us focus on enjoying the day, as St. Patrick intended. While I enjoy the day downtown at Bosco’s, enjoying the perfect perch for the passing parade, my focus will be fixed on a 16 oz. Draft Flow Can of Murphy’s Irish Stout. Proper attention must be paid to the pouring of this deep, dark nectar of the gods. As the glass fills up, enjoy the dancing foam as it cascades upward in a dance of slightly roasted flavor. Brewed in Ireland with 100% natural ingredients, Murphy’s is a less bitter, more drinkable and creamier product as compared to other Irish stouts. Happy St. Patrick’s Day! aseveneightfive Kevin Reed, when not inflicting psychological trauma on the editors of seveneightfive with his atrocious grammar and nonsensical puns, is busy distributing physical terror as a group fitness instructor and personal trainer at Great Life Golf & Fitness at Berkshire through his Sujikan Fitness System. He tweets @seveneightfive using the hashtag #785mugshot.
shock top wins the race
C
ongratulations! You have just finished your first 5k, half-marathon or completed another personal challenge. While rehydrating on water or your favorite sports drink, you reflect on the training that enabled you to get to this point. It is now time to take the opportunity to toast yourself for a job will done. The following selections from Shock Top Brewery will allow you to indulge in the flavor of personal triumph. For the traditional enthusiast, I recommend the Shock Top Wheat I.P.A. Its blend of wheat malt and mild hops is sure to be enjoyed by many. Think of it as a cool, carbonated distraction as your tightening calve muscles plan their revenge on you. To satisfy the more select palate, the Belgian White is a suitable option. The Belgian style wheat ale is naturally cloudy, with a light golden hue and slight orange taste. Served with a slice of your preferred citrus fruit, it helps calm the spirit as you contemplate your next adventure.
Speaking of fruit, I saved the Raspberry Wheat Ale for last, since it is most like dessert. For those with a bit of a sweet tooth, this unfiltered wheat ale has just enough raspberry essence to create a perfect balance of flavor and refreshment. (You can have your dessert first, I won’t tell.) Now for the real dilemma: which one do you buy first? Fortunately, the kind staff at Shock Top Brewery had the foreshadowing to pre-empt such a stress-inducing situation. Available year round, the Shock Top Variety Pack comes in both 12- and 24- bottle packs, each featuring Belgian White, Raspberry Wheat and the new Wheat I.P.A. With that in mind, train hard, stock up, and I will see you at the finish line. aseveneightfive ** Look for Shock Top Wheat “Shandy” this spring. Live life unfiltered, while you still can. Enter The Final Challenge from Shock Top at facebook.com/shocktop. The Official Beer of the End of the World™. (12/21/12)
NOTHING TO DO? We call Shenanigans. Go to www.seveneightfive.com and sign up for the weekender - a weekly eblast filled with the top art and music events of the week.
by Rio Cervantes-Reed
great guitarist
Joe Bonamassa has steadily grown his reputation as one of the world’s greatest guitarists. A recent showing of, “Joe Bonamassa: Live from Royal Albert Hall,” on local PBS stations has helped to catapult the popularity of this blues guitarist into the mainstream, as he played not only to a sold-out London crowd (where he was joined on stage by his hero, Eric Clapton) but to millions of households internationally. Born in 1977 in New Hartford, N.Y., Bonamassa was only 10-years-old when he caught the attention of B.B. King, and went on to open shows for him, and perform on-stage with Buddy Guy, Robert Cray and Gregg Allman, among others. Don’t miss this blues prodigy when he visits the Topeka Performing Arts Center on May 2. Tickets are available now at Ticketmaster outlets. Look for the seveneightfive interview in the April 15 issue. aseveneightfive
writer awarded
seen + noted | cool things you should know about
sn +
ReThink Topeka T
he Third Annual ReThink Topeka Exhibition and Art Walk is scheduled for Saturday, April 14, noon 7:30pm. Attracting over a thousand people to downtown Topeka for this event in each of the past two years, this is a wonderful way to meet local artists and familiarize yourself with locally owned businesses. A $2 donation gets you in to each venue where you can enjoy music, art, poetry and prose, and art activities for children and adults alike. Many of the venues will also provide refreshments, or have them available for sale, so you can make a whole day of it without going elsewhere to refuel. As of print the following venues have committed to participating: Breakroom, Blue Planet Cafe, Nexlynx, Celtic Fox, Bosco’s, Supersonic Music and Jayhawk Tower. Additional venues and artists will be announced at www.rethinktopeka.com, or visit our website at www. seveneightfive.com for updates as information becomes available. aseveneightfive
Local author Thomas Fox Averill has been announced the winner of the 2012 Western Heritage Award Winner in the category of Outstanding Western Novel, for his book, “Rode.” This distinction has been bestowed in the past upon writers including James Michener, Larry McMurtry, Barbara Kingsolver and Cormac McCarthy. With the addition of Averill to their ranks, these writers can now say they are in excellent company. Except Michener, who passed in 1997, so who knows who he’s rubbing elbows with. Or, with whom he is rubbing elbows. On that note, Averill is also is Writer-in-residence and Professor of English at Washburn University of Topeka, where he teaches courses in Creative Writing and in Kansas Literature, Folklore and Film. Averill will be recognized by the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum on April 21 in Oklahoma City. Giddy up! aseveneightfive
noto market
The Grand Opening for the Saturday Market has been announced for April 7, and it will be open weekly through November 3. Just The NOTO Arts District, named by shortening steps away from the popular Arts District, NOrth TOpeka, was formed in response to the Market will be located at the north end priorities listed by over 5,000 community of Kansas Avenue, just under the Memorial members during the Heartland Visioning Bridge. There will be a focus on art, antiques, process, and is now a popular spot for art lovers fine crafts, flea market items and local to gather for First Friday Art Walks. The NOTO produce, with the goal of providing a rich Arts District Leadership Team, co-chaired by cultural experience enhanced by music and Anita Wolgast and John Hunter, is now providing entertainment. another opportunity of Topekans and our visitors Potential market vendors are invited to to enjoy the eclective art studios, gallery spaces, apply to participate in the Saturday Market specialty retail markets, eateries, and more with by visiting the NOTO website at www. the NOTO Saturday Market. NOTOartsdistrict.com. aseveneightfive
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SXSW
Congratulations to local band Interior Sea, who have been chosen to represent Kansas at The State Of Music Showcase in Austin, Tex. The State Of Music is a project by UK-based music lover Dominik Paczko. The aim of the project was to discover one unsigned or independent act from each of the fifty American states. The State Of Music has been given the opportunity to take its talented array of bands to one of the biggest stages of all with an unofficial showcase at the SXSW festival. Twenty-four bands featured on The State Of Music will perform at a free show, running across two venues. This is a unique opportunity to discover a vast range of exciting new bands, and to celebrate the wealth of fantastic independent music coming from every corner of America. Interior Sea includes Justin Marable on guitar and vocals, Brian Langham on percussion and vocals, Ben Alford on bass guitar, and Sam Smith on guitar. They will be performing at J.Blacks Feel Good Lounge on Wednesday, March 14. aseveneightfive
serendipity
820 N. Kansas Ave NOTO Art District www.serendipitytopeka.com 806.0604 or 286.7676
serendipity a truly unique venue by Maggie Thompson-Doll • photos by Ken Doll Photography
T
he owners call it a happy accident. An idea born during a networking meeting that quickly grew into reality. That idea – Serendipity Topeka’s newest event venue, located at 820 N. Kansas Ave., in the heart of Topeka’s NOTO Arts District. After a discussion at a local networking meeting, Jenny Torrence-Harris and Chris Page from Chinell’s Floral realized that Topeka needed a little something different when it came to wedding and event spaces. According to Jenny, the two felt like Topeka needed a space that was more modern and contemporary in design, that offered a lounge feel, a bar, and enough open space that could cater to all events. In no time, the two were searching for and found the perfect location. Jenny and Chris, with the help of Jenny’s friend Shannon and sister Patti, along with spouses in tow, started the remodeling work that would refurbish every inch of the historic North
Topeka building. In just 37 days, they transformed the building into a beautiful event space, perfect for wedding receptions, corporate meetings, celebrations, and family reunions. But the owners of Serendipity wanted to do more than just create a unique event space. They feel it’s important they play an active role in the community. For example, each month Serendipity will donate a weeknight for a charity to host an event. Serendipity has also committed to participate in the ArtsConnect First Friday ArtWalk in NOTO featuring works of art and hosting musicians for entertainment. Serendipity’s owners also think it’s important that visitors during First Fridays have a place to stay for dinner and spend their evening in NOTO. Therefore, they will be working with a local caterer each month to offer a dinner option for First Friday visitors. Jenny calls it a perfect date night or girl’s night out that will keep people in the area for a longer time on First Friday nights. aseveneightfive
March 2 “What’s YOUR Green?” Band: Monk’s Wine Belgium beer specials + beer sampling Dinner from The Office Too $10 includes live entertainment, dinner & soft drink.
April 6 “Empowering Women” Showcasing pieces from the Concealed / Revealed Art Auction - a benefit for YWCA (Event April 27) Band: Ellie & The Commotion Dinner, entertainment + soft drink: $10 (Dinner TBD) 7
SONGS +
songwriters Top City Artists on Love LIFE
& LOSS.
“The music business is a cruel and shallow money trench, a long plastic hallway where thieves and pimps run free, and good men die like dogs. There’s also a negative side.” often attributed to Hunter S. Thompson by Tom Wah • photos by Nique Prokop | www.THErockstarphotographer.com
“…better slow your Mustang down…” “…cause Mama, I’m sure hard to handle now…” “…I’ve been holding out so long, I’ve been sleeping all alone, Lord, I miss you…” << Jeff Toda
Whether penned by Wilson Pickett, Otis Redding, or Mick Jagger, the songs one is likely to hear around town on a given weekend night are covers that are familiar and danceable.
B
ut most folks realize, to escape the gravitational pull of Topeka, they have to start writing tunes, creating their own energy and putting themselves out there emotionally, musically and lyrically. Kerry Livgren and Andy McKee quickly come to mind as successful Topeka songwriters whose music reaches an international audience Fortunately, a whole new crop of songwriters and performers is maturing in the Top City with hopes of enjoying the success of Messers Livgren and McKee. Whether it’s in the country-folk sound of Greg Fox and Jacob Hodge; the troubadour perspective of Rick Bruner; the clever insights of Chris Aytes or Ashley Reynolds; the fresh take of boy-meets girl by Riley Voth; the edgy acoustic approach of Jeff Toda; or the expression of heartfelt angst of Joey Desch, Topeka performers are writing new tunes and getting them out there as solo artists, hard-hitting bands or studio productions. Whatever the route, dozens of local musicians are immersed daily in a labor of love: creating an aural experience that is meaningful to the artist and connects to and affects the listener.
…lyrics start my songs, but until just the right plucking on the guitar happens, it doesn’t come to life. -Greg Fox So where does a good song come from? For Rick, it was pretty simple. “Songs are everywhere, it’s like fishing - you put your line in the water and wait. Throw back the little ones and let them grow bigger. They’ll be back. The good ones want to be caught.” Ashley, who writes with his piano, “…starts with the lyrics and the rest sort of takes care of itself. As I go along, I start to hear chords, bass lines and beats, usually by the end of the lyrics, the song is pretty much finished.” Not surprisingly, other writers have other approaches. Chris noted, “Typically, it’s music first. Then lyrics evolve as the melody comes together. I basically never write the lyrics first. I’m not a poet. I’m a songwriter.” >> continued on next page
Chris Aytes
And then there’s Jeff. “I never start from the same place twice as far as songs are concerned. Sometimes it is a turn of a phrase that gets me going, and sometimes there may be a melody that haunts me that I need to get out.” Joey offered perhaps the emotional starting place. “All of my songs are a reaction to not being able to deal with complicated emotions like love, death, regret or loneliness. Sometimes the lyrics will just flow out, and I’ll figure out the music later, or the music will already be in place, and the lyrics just hit me when I start playing.”
The best song is one that invites the listener in for coffee, and maybe we’ll dance, too. -Rick Bruner
Ashley Reynolds
When asked just what made a song a favorite for them, some were able to pick the song, while others had to take a broader run at it. Greg noted Counting Hills as his favorite. “The message is clear and the melody memorable. The story stopped being just my story, which I think makes a really great song.” Chris picked his Why I Need You. “It seems like a very romantic song at first, but it’s actually about family, friends, community, God, the whole shebang.” For Joey, it happened when he blended three songs into one. “Not only does the song have good lyrics and an engaging melody, it is the best song structurally. It has two different bridges and refrains that are both melodic and beautiful.” Ashley picked his Message 3. “It’s a strong tune with great lyrics. Regardless how it reaches others, every time I hear it, I’m amazed I was actually able to write it.” Riley didn’t identify one song but noted (not a surprise if you’ve heard his chops), “... a catchy guitar riff cannot be over emphasized and is often the Rick Bruner catalyst to a great song.”
If I wrote every song in first person it would be self-indulgent. And I promise you, I spent a lot of time trying to break the first person perspective. I guess I figured out that I’m just not that interesting.- Jeff Toda
T
he artist’s choice of perspective is always a key to communicating his or her vision for the piece, and can determine what the audience sees or hears. Not a surprise, Joey takes the road less traveled. “I’ve been getting into writing songs in the second person because it is a very powerful tool in getting the audience to think seriously about the emotions the song is trying to relate... it can feel [to an audience member] as if this stranger is on stage somehow singing just for them…” Riley’s take is “[the artist] needs to have something that sets them apart from the crowd, and the truly successful ones are clearly individualistic and have something to say no one else does.” Greg pointed out a concern of his. “I try to be hyper-conscious of my perspective changing mid-song. A mistake some writers make is to flip flop which side of the story they are on.”
LISTEN LIVE Song + Songwriter Showcase
hosted by seveneightfive prior to the The Songwriter Sessions College Hill Tavern | 1616 SW 17th St. Tuesday, March 13 | 6:30 - 8:30 pm $3 per ticket | OPEN @ 8:30 pm to public for The Songwriter Sessions with Jeff Toda and Nate Dingman. 10
limited number of tickets - go to seveneightfive.com
The songwriters agreed on one thing; writing for a band is different than writing for a solo performance. Greg said, “I write from the songwriter perspective; the band is never in my thoughts.” Riley offered, “I usually write music to perform with a band, so I try to keep the other instrumental parts in mind.” Ashley likes to keep “the songs closer [to him] with less instrumentation, but every song is brought to the band for work. We enjoy playing together and comparing notes.” Rick’s take was, “A great song is great, no matter how you play it,” using a Neil Young song played with Crazy Horse and himself as an example. Jeff turns very practical on the subject. “I don’t work with a band, and I don’t see that happening. I love the IDEA of a band, but I have to be able to see a return on my investment. The local economy doesn’t support the cost of
Jacob Hodge
The songwriters agreed on one thing; writing for a band is different than writing for a solo performance. time, effort, and financial investment it takes to rehearse and hone your skills as a band.” Although it is obviously the individual’s effort, talent, and emotion that define his or her success, these astute people are more than willing to listen to, and learn from, others who ply their craft. When asked about their most powerful “hook” –that refrain, that moves a song into an iconic status (think “I’ve got friends in low places,” or, “with a little help from my friends,”) Jeff offered the greatest compliment one could offer up describing one of Joey’s songs. “I find it absolutely brilliant and wish I had written it.”
Joey Desch
Riley Voth
Please don’t leave, cause this might be the end of me And my heart is breaking, pieces falling from my sleeve Please don’t you leave ‘Cause you’re all I need Many of the most popular bands/musicians locally are always going to be those covering other’s tunes. It’s just the way it is for most of them, and the way it should be, as there have been thousands of songs written over the last 50 years that fit like comfortable shoes, warm the heart, and bring either a smile or a tear to the face. Ellie Smith and the Commotion are performing a number That’s the nature of of her tunes. (The band’s lead player, Ryan Verthein, also is a the local music scene. talented songwriter.) Hopefully, however, these talented artists Wyndi Sengoles and Topeka veteran Kenny Smith will get more and write for Bridges. more opportunities to Ross Williams is the principle song writer for Artifact. get their music out to The collaboration of Luke Dwyer and Aymen Ghali create a bigger and broader a growing number of songs for Soul Rebel and the Beast, audience. They’ve got Topeka’s best shot of breaking out given their performances something new to say. last year at the Wakarusa Music Festival and Kanrocksas.
There are number of other songwriters/bands counting on originals to bolster their set list:
aseveneightfive
Josh Vowell of Josh Vowell and the Rumble
These talented players can easily be found around town at a variety of venues: Ashley Reynolds: Monk’s Wine Chris Aytes: Chris Aytes and the Good Ambition Riley Voth: Gypsy Jazz Quartet + local jams around town Rick Bruner: Rick Bruner Band & Nick Hearn Band Joey Desch: The Songwriter Sessions (hosted weekly by Jeff Toda + Nate Dingman at College Hill Tavern). At special performance, local jams and even playing after in the parking lot. Jeff Toda: The Songwriter Sessions / Solo shows around town (look at Abigail’s) Greg Fox: Easy to find at his eatery - The RowHouse Restaurant Jacob Hodge: The Songwriter Sessions * Please note this is only a SMALL sample of the talented singer / songwriters in Topeka. To hear them and stay in tune with the Topeka music scene, sign up for the seveneightfive weekender at www.seveneightfive.com.
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DUI DEFENDER
BEEN CHARGED? 785-272-HURT
A
s I moved to Oakland in January 2011, I was excited for two weeks. I passed Oakland Video’s window, gazed in at the movies for rent, the popcorn machine, and reminisced about my past experiences in such locally-owned stores. It was at the end of the two weeks when the going-out-of-business signs appeared, as that popcorn machine disappeared. The owner told me it was difficult to sustain her rental business. Of course, I made a connection as to why when I noticed a line of people at the Redbox a block away from her store. There is a local history that mirrors America’s history of movie rentals—the chance to rent movies to take back home. In 1982, Duncan’s Movie Magic opened in Topeka as the exclusive rental store of VHS players and tapes, first on East 29th, then West 29th. Their selection was enormous, even as other rental stores opened in grocery stores and independent rental stores. Then Blockbuster et al came— successful chains that drove smaller stores out. Finally, with Netflix and Redbox, these larger chains could not sustain having buildings in Topeka. Everyone might know Family Video works as a franchise in our city, but there is one store that has remained. Gerry runs Movie Magic, previously that very same Duncan’s Movie Magic, until Gerry purchased the DVD and VHS tape selection from Gary and Josette Duncan in March 2004. “We have a lot of regular customers,” Gerry told me. I noticed the personal attention he gave to customers, knowing a few by name. Another thing I enjoyed about being in the store is the personal touch—ice cream, candy, and soft drinks are for sale, too. Plus, an oldfashioned popcorn machine stands next to the soda. “Customers can get a free bag of popcorn or a large bag for $1.50,” Gerry commented.
Full Circle
movies at home
Aside from the personal attention, another benefit is each disc is cleaned as it is returned and checked before it goes out. I affirmed my experience from Redbox with Gerry, as he told me a complaint he hears about red machine dispensers is that renters sometimes cannot get the discs to play. “We have approximately 14,000 movies in this store,” Gerry noted. “We rent many of these library titles to families who are looking for comedies or family releases.” Other sections include Action, Thriller, Sci-Fi, Horror, Anime, Games (Wii, PS3, X-Box 360), and Drama. There are also 150 old classics on VHS for rent. New titles are rented for two nights: $3.49 for one, $5.50 for two, and three for $7.50. This is comparable to one of those red machines, and one is more likely to find what she or he is looking for. The library titles (the non-new releases) are four nights for $1.85, but the special for library titles is five movies for five days, renting for $5.55. Games are four night rentals for $5.95 each. One of the features that impressed me is the AFI Top 100 wall of DVDs. These classics, as voted on by the American Film Institute, are “the best” American films of all time. There is also a special: On Mondays, when you rent one, the second rental is free. Also, check the poster bin for any free posters that once were displayed. Overall, I want to support local businesses, keep sustainable communities, and seek out the personal touch a corporation often fails to offer. I really don’t mind paying a little extra for these things—to continue to go back to Movie Magic for movies at home. aseveneightfive
Movie Magic 510 NW Broad St (one block west of NW Topeka Blvd & Broad St) 233.9933
by Dennis Etzel Jr. • photos by Dennis Etzel Jr.
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artist highlight
Special thanks to Sal Curz and the Topeka High Drumline
by Regina Stephenson â&#x20AC;˘ photo by Colin MacMillan | Nathan Ham Photography
the rockstar photographer
A
woman sits in a booth at Topeka’s Flying Monkey, eyes wide as she curls around her cup of java. The setting of her new favorite Topeka business reflects this artist’s personal tastes: eclectic, unassuming, open.
Nique Prokop, 29, is a native Topekan whose art has taken her far beyond the plains to the coasts of America and even across the pond to a few countries in Europe. Nique, best known for her photo shoots of bands like Shinedown, says she’s fortunate to not have to be “working” when she’s working. “It’s not really my job, it’s what I love, it’s one of my passions.” Nique said. “I’ve been lucky, I’ve been able to harness it and be able to live off of doing things I love to do, like travel.” The travel was what springboarded Nique into doing photography in the first place. A few years ago, she found she had reached a rut, spinning her wheels without going anywhere. “I just woke up one morning and I was just unhappy. Unhappy with my dead-end job, unhappy with my dead-end relationships,” Nique said. “So I sat down and actually thought about what would make me happy.” After that, she quit her job, packed her bags and quickly found herself with nothing but two trunks of clothes and the drive to go somewhere. She started taking portrait photos for free, moving up to charging a
small fee as she continued to improve. Soon she was freelancing photography for musicians and their bands.
Nique traded in a dead-end job and relationships for a job where the road never ends and she constantly meets new people. She really is doing just what she wants.
“I got really lucky when I started shooting bands,” Nique said. “I had a contact in with Shinedown, and got a deal doing some photos and design work for their merchandise, and it spiderwebbed from there. I was so thankful I had put in all of that work beforehand to prepare myself.”
Now she has traded a dead-end job and relationships for a job where the road never ends and she constantly meets new people. She really is doing just what she wants. “I wake up in the morning and I do what I want to do. I don’t want to work today? I don’t work. I may not have money tomorrow, but it’s whatever I want to do.” The various bands that she works with have given Nique a well-established portfolio, rich with the color and light that is unique to stage-lit photography. However, she has a more recent line of photography that she finds uniquely rewarding. Nique’s newest photographic foray is into the world of pinup art, with the challenge of finding the clientele herself. She asks women to gather a few friends to do pinup photo shoots. She said it is usually easier, once one friend has agreed, to get others to join in the shoot, so it almost always turns into a pinup party complete with wine and snacks. “I sit down with every person I shoot and find out their favorite things about themselves and their least favorite things,” Nique said. “Then when I shoot I try to focus on their
favorite things and maybe shed their least favorite things in a different light.” Although she hopes to one day contract a burlesque show client or two, she said the age ranges and interests of her pinup clients keep things interesting. “My portfolio has expanded, I’m never just shooting the same type of girl over and over. So far they’ve all been personal individuals.” Nique’s work has given her a lot more opportunities and experiences than what she had back when she felt stuck in place, but she said there may be a radical career shift headed her way; she’s going back to school. She plans to get a psychology degree, and even pursue a Master’s. “At some point, I want to become a therapist,” Nique said. “I’m not sure what kind, but I know that’s what I’ll actually live off of, and then my photography will become kind of secondary.” No matter where her future takes her, this artist is assured to continue using the colorful side of her skills and personality to effect those around her. “If I can make people feel amazing and see the world while I’m at it, I can’t have any complaints,” Nique said. aseveneightfive
music | a rundown studios production
by Amanda Reynolds * photo by Sally Roediger | SlyShotS Photography
black solo cup If you are offended by hip thrusting, tongue wagging or pure sexiness, this video is not for you.
L
ong ago and far away, a band was formed from the bowels of the earth and brought forth to share their genius with the world. This band goes by the name of One Shot Kidz. A lucky few were able to witness their masterful artistry at Rundown Studios on January 20th when a taping of Black Solo Cup took place.
Why write this song?
I was enthralled by the brilliance I had beheld. This compelled me to dig in deep and find out more about these three special individuals. I stopped Antonio DiPaolo, Pauly V and Uncle Marv, from Trenton, N.J., to ask them a few questions (keep in mind that all answers below are said in a thick Jersey accent).
Any plans for the band’s future?
What is Black Solo Cup? Pauly V: The Black Solo Cup is a version of the Red Solo Cup but its black, so… Why film it in Topeka if you are from Trenton, N.J.? Antonio DiPaolo: Are you kidding me? Where else are we supposed to film it? It’s Paul Schneider producing it. He’s the best!
PaulyV: The Red Solo Cup song pissed us off so we decided to write Black Solo Cup to punish everyone. How did all this come to pass? PaulyV: Easy! We just flew to Topeka, played the first thing that came to mind, made a crazy video and BOOM! Black Solo Cup mania. PaulyV: We plan to make a full album, probably move right to VH1’s “Behind the Music,” and then release a greatest hits album. We want the most bang for the buck, ya’ know? Check out this phenomenon on YouTube by typing in Black Solo Cup. This is not for the faint at heart. If you are offended by hip thrusting, tongue wagging or pure sexiness, this video is not for you. Black Solo Cup is sure to go down in the history books. aseveneightfive
One Shot Kidz performing Black Solo Cup. (L-R) Antonio DiPaolo, Pauly V and Uncle Marv.
Join the thousands who have already viewed Black Solo Cup. Use your phone and scan the QR code to be directed to the video on YouTube.
Specialty coffee, baked goods and sandwiches... Happy Hour M-F 3-5pm 110 SE 8th Ave. • 785-783-8883 • blueplanettopeka.com
illustrations by Amanda Reynolds
Get to know a seveneightfive staffer as they share their top picks, Topeka secrets and what they are absolutely into at the moment. 7 things I love to do, and you should too! 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
Oscar’s Whitehall Gifts Farmer’s Market The Shop - Topeka’s Garage Gym Bark Park Governor’s Mansion trails Iwig Dairy Store
8 bars and eateries I tend to frequent, for obvious reasons. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
Oscar’s sour cream and chicken enchilada Blind Tiger County Seat Wheat beer Daimaru Las Vegas roll College Hill Tavern’s crab rangoons Rowhouse Restaurant Pigskin’s/ Boss Hawg’s spinach artichoke dip Abigail’s chicken fried steak North Star Steakhouse
5 events you must attend, and if you do, you get to see me! 1. Opening day at Farmer’s Market - April 2. The Great American Trailer Park musical - opens May 4 at TCTA 3. MMA + Boxing Matches - April 21 | KS Expo 4. Avenue Q opening March 2 | TCTA 5. Topeka Community Concert Series presents “American Spirit” - March 13
y l n o s ’ a k e p o T e v i d r 5-sTa St. Patrick’S Day 2012! After the pArAde, follow us bAck to the Goose! food, GreAt drink speciAls & bAG pipers.
3203 SW 10th | 785-357-8474 @thedutchgoose
ArtsCONNECT First Friday Art Walk 1NIGHT | 40+ art shows
March 2 & April 6 view map + gallery info www.artsconnecttopeka.org
Larissa Keller is an awesome wife and a loving mother of two dogs and a cat. As a true Gemini, she works as an accountant by day, but her other half is addicted to tattoos and intense workouts at The Shop. After spending years lazing on the couch, she now leads a life filled to the brim with living, loving, and having fun. 17
5Q: |five questions with Faces for Radio
5Q
Faces for Radio by Michelle Ullom • photo by Amber O’Dell - AO Productions
“We don’t want anyone to take us too seriously, because we don’t…we like to get up there, have a good time, and give that feeling back to the audience.” Adam Angelini, guitarist. Talking with Faces for Radio on the Dutch Goose’s back patio with beers and cigarettes in hand, vocalist Mark Rose described the band’s genesis a year and a half ago as ‘the disposal of one band and the creation of a new one.’ Along with drummer Dustin Ensley, the two put their heads together and pulled guitarist Adam Angelini and bassist Joe Herold into the mix. Their sound draws influence from bands like Tool, Guns and Roses and the Red Hot Chili Peppers, including a diverse range of music genres; from jazz and bluegrass, 90’s rock, to metal. Attend one of their shows, and you’ll hear all this synthesized into guitar and vocal-driven covers along with material original to the band. 1. What’s your biggest non-musical influence? Adam: Comedy. Dustin: Honestly, when we’re not playing, we’re just f ’n around…and we can draw from that (in retrospect, I should have brought a digital recorder to the interview; the one-liners where flying fast and furious). Joe: Life. We’re all great friends, and we spend time together on and off the stage. Mark: We definitely like to mix it up. 2. What’s the worst and best about playing in a band? The band members were unanimous in finding it a struggle to make time for music among lives filled with work, relationships, and day-today details that need to come first. But on a lighter note….Joe: We’ll butt heads a lot over what we are going to play. Adam: Or how we’re going to play it. Mark: How over the top we’re going to be. Dustin: Or who’s going to keep Mark in line (everyone laughs).
And the best? Adam: Giving back to the crowd as much as they give us. Mark: The energy created between us as a group, us as a band, and the audience. Dustin: A necessary release, fuels me to wake up every day. Joe: The rush you get on-stage, release of all that builds up in day-to-day life. 3. Do you have pre-show rituals to get you ready to play? As a group, they huddle up, take a shot, promise each other they’ll do whatever it takes to have a great show. And as individuals? Dustin: Stretching. Mark: Make-up. Adam: Warm up with my instrument. Joe: Take a shot to get good and loose. 4. Any long-term plans for the group? Mark: Write more original material. Adam: Go on a tour of Kansas during the coming summer and bring live music to small towns that don’t get a whole lot of exposure to that. Dustin: Make our music more accessible through the internet, better exposure. Joe: More work on getting our sound out there and available. They all agreed they would continue to do what they love, and that a big focus of their show is just that…putting on a show and connecting with an audience. 5. And probably the most important question of all…the Whopper or a Big Mac? Adam: Whopper, cause it’s flatter…but somehow bigger, and more satisfying. Joe: Whopper, I don’t like McD’s secret sauce. Mark: Jimmy John’s veggie sub, ‘cause I like vegetables a lot, which the Whopper has more of, but the Big Mac has that extra slice of bread that if you DON’T have it, totally changes the taste, which makes no sense…(Mark continued along this line of thought for a few minutes, but that’s about the gist of it) Dustin: The Big Mac. Anticipating that first mouthful with special sauce…it’s so intriguing to me to be able to call something like that dinner. aseveneightfive
future music scene Jam4Dan
$2,500 was raised for scholarships at Jam4Dan V. Scholarship applications are being accepted now through March 18. For the annual repor t and scholarship guidelines and application, please visit www.Jam4Dan.com
by Robin Cremer
Jam4Dan, the 2-day long guitar extravaganza honoring the memory of Topeka’s late great Dan Falley, just celebrated its 5th anniversary. The event, held Martin Luther King weekend at the Celtic Fox, has become such a prestigious event in the city, that many in the local music community plan their itinerary around it. There have been bands that have played their debut performance, while others have chosen the occasion to present their final swan song. It has become a time for local musicians to reunite, reminisce and rock out to each other’s music in a non-competitive and celebratory environment. Jam4Dan also gives serious music connoisseurs a chance to sample a wide variety of diverse bands and genres in one place. Whether it’s blues, jazz, classic rock, modern rock, punk rock, or anything else that can be classified as music, J4D offers a wide variety of auditory delights for the hungry soul. If that was all Jam4Dan was about, and the only thing it had to offer, it would still kick ass up 8th and down Kansas. Jam4Dan is the primary fund raiser for The Dan Falley Memorial Fund & Scholarships. The scholarship has been providing the means for many talented students, otherwise unable, to continue proper musical instruction due to a lack of sufficient financial support. Scholarship board member Tom Krebs says, “by making these scholarships available, we hope to keep a young person in contact with a caring adult as he or she develops the commitment and effort it takes to learn to play the guitar, characteristics that will serve them well throughout their lives.”
Musician Chip Janda; a guitarist of 35 years and teacher for ten; has been a part of the scholarship program for 3 years. “I am so proud of my students and their achievements. Forrest Evans was a 2010 J4D scholarship recipient. He will do great things musically and J4D had a part in it.” Evans, now on tour with Cary Cooper; was recently referred to as a “guitar god” by the Texas singersongwriter. He’s thankful for the J4D scholarship. “Receiving this scholarship was a huge honor. It helped me to further my music education at a time when money was very tight. I now do my best to honor [Dan’s] legacy by providing time for my fans and students.” Chip, whose band Soulbleed performed this year, goes on to say, “I have several other students who would not have been able to continue lessons without the financial support of a scholarship.” If you’re only coming for the established bands, you’re missing out on some of the most significant performances of the weekend. It’s during the first few hours of each day that our city’s young musical talents have a chance to climb on stage to show off their chops, and give us a glimpse of the future of Rock and Roll. This years performers included, Free Rock, Ida Knows, Rock Tots; which is made up of kids under ten; and my personal fave, Jagged Edge. With so many components involved in getting a rock show on stage, wouldn’t it be great if sometime down the road, we could have a full week of Jam4Dan? Teaching several aspects involved in the music industry to kids. Make Jan4Dan part of your itinerary in 2013. January 19 and 20. Now that you know the dates, plan accordingly. aseveneightfive
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h+n
@785heardnoted Help! Rupe, I’m having a lot of trouble concentrating and I can’t seem to carry on a normal conversation with anyone. What’s up? - Losing It Dear It, Yer suffering from a case of early spring fever brought on by a too-warm winter and the girl in accounting’s skirt being too short. Cold Shower time! - RR ____________________________
?*@! overheard out+about
ARIES compiled by Erin Wynkoop Asking if yer jeans make yer illustration by Amanda Reynolds butt look big is like asking Mitt Romney if he’s pro choice or “Can we build sand castlespro in that?” @never 39th St. Bar know life. Yer gonna if the answer is true! “How can Luke Skywalker understand R2D2?” “Um,
because he’s a fucking Jedi!” @College Hill Tavern TAURUS
At long last the people you “How do you work this fancy thinking box?” @ Tailgators can’t stand are going to get
“This is all I want to do with my life right to now. I just want to what’s coming them. And, have a good time.” @ Quintons no, I’m not talking about IRS. “Ren & Stimpy is like Dude, Where’s My Car? to me. I just GEMINI can’t get it. @ The Dugout I’ve thought a lot about this
and all Iiscan say “I’m not afraid of you - your shift over inis,an“blecroochi hour.” OH @ nobkis elarbliga!” Bet ya didn’t The Dutch Goose see that coming!
“I only like that Flo-Rida guy because he did a song with Ke$ha. And we all know how I feel about that b...” @ The CANCER Trap Costume parties are fun unless
yer you the only one who “And I finally had to say ‘Can put your penisthought back init was a costume party. Again. your pants?’” @ The Goose
“They have no motivation.LEO They don’t even get high.” OH @ Denny’s. ;-) Classic Bean VIRGO @785HeardNoted “I like your approach. Now I’d like to see Soon, when you least expect it, your departure.” OH @thedutchgoose someone will say some little
@785HeardNoted “The story was so funny I almost choked something that really makes yer on my Hot Pocket.” OH @ day. Henry T’ssorta soon. Well,
@785HeardNoted “Girl canLIBRA I be your test driver? Cause I wanna show you how I canEveryone handle those curves” OH @ The knows love is blind, Wild Horse Bucko, but not everyone is aware she carries a taser and a @785HeardNoted “I am competitive. I win every pants-off an anal probe and has the dance-off ”
hearing of an arboreal fruit bat. (Sounds of flopping on a hard Be sure to RT + Tweet @785HeardNoted all your floor and surprised with grunting...)
favorite witty tweets you hear out-and-about 20
SCORPIO Well, it’s official. Wikipedia is adding yer photo next to the following subjects: gorgeous, amazing, fun-to-be-with, stylish, and gorgeous. Wait... did I already say gorgeous? Yes, I did. SAGITTARIUS Alert! Ms. Skanktoes is no longer woolying the walnut wookie with he who is smelly. (No, I don’t really know this for a fact but I had to find some way to include that wonderful euphemism one more time. I’m just that kind of chicken.) CAPRICORN Long ago and far away there was a tiny princess who was all alone until suddenly, on a golden stallion, a handsome prince rode by and missed her completely in the tall grass. Tiny has its drawbacks, Bucko. AQUARIUS So... it’s that time of year again. One-piece, two-piece, thong, or go Brazilian with some floss and a postage stamp—ya have to decide how many pounds yer willing to lose to lure yer next ex-boyfriend this summer. PISCES Dear Hate Mongers, Although yer never gonna see this, ya better quit hating or we’re coming to yer hate-filled house and removing yer tiny, hate-filled brains with a dull, rusty spoon. Have a nice day. ___________________________ Question for the Blue Guru? While I realize yer never going to be totally sure I’ll keep yer identity a secret (uh, gee), ask yerself which is worse, Bucko, not knowing the answer or having yer friends know ya asked the question? Email me! Ruprecht@PsychicChicken.com ___________________________ * Astrological predictions are about as appealing as Mitt Romney’s and Newt Gingrich’s personal beliefs. One’s a polygamist wannabe and the other’s a heartless bastard willing to do anything to make a buck. And, we’re not sure which is which. - RR
Poetry + Lit Events March 9 | 7 pm Sherman Alexie Washburn University March 13 | 4 pm Denise Low Mabee Library | WU March 15 | 6 pm Matthew Porubsky Topeka Shawnee County Public Library (TSCPT)
If you would like to be informed of other Top City poetry readings, please look for Dennis on Facebook under “Top City Poetry Reading Series.”
Matthew Porubsky is an internationally published poet. His first book of poetry, “voyeur poems,” was awarded the Kansas Authors Club Nelson Poetry Book Award in 2006. His various art pursuits have been honored by the KU, The Kansas Humanities Council, The Capital-Journal and other community/arts organizations. He is an occasional contributor to seveneightfive and XYZ magazines. He works as a switchman for the Union Pacific Railroad and lives in Topeka with his wife and children. Eric McHenry is a native of Topeka, KS. He attended Beloit College and Boston University where he earned his MA in creative writing. McHenry’s poems have been featured in many publications including, The Harvard Review and Slate. He has won the Academy of American Poets Prize. Kevin Rabas co-directs the creative writing program at Emporia State and edits Flint Hills Review. He has three books: Bird’s Horn, Lisa’s Flying Electric Piano, a Kansas Notable Book and Nelson Poetry Book Award winner, and Spider Face: stories. Lisa Moritz teaches literature and composition at Emporia State University. Her poems have won the Kay Alden, Green Wyrick, and Kansas Voices awards. She has recent work in Thorny Locust. She is also a singer/songwriter with two CDs: Dream of Blue and Holding Time.
kansas themed poems Top City Poetry: Hello, poetry readers! seveneightfive decided to change up the format of its regular Q&A focus on a poet to concentrate on several poets around a certain theme. What better theme than the state we love: Kansas. Although I am not accepting unsolicited submissions at this time, please be sure to follow this section to read the latest happenings in wordsmithing. Thanks! -Dennis
Transaction
Eric McHenry
I say loiter, you say hang: loiter. Sir, do we look like a gang to you? That officer said we look like a gang. We must look like a gang. He said we do. She’s black, about 16. Her clothes are blue. Her friends are black. Their clothes are blue and red. The Jayhawks are at home tonight; KU clings like a snowcap to Mt. Oread. Sir, do we look like a gang to you? My friends and I? She’s livid and polite. It’s Friday night. Their clothes are red and blue. They’re out on Mass. because it’s Friday night. They’re out on Massachusetts Street, named for the home state of the man who gave the land beneath it, and of whose deeds any more history might force the poem’s hand. Thank you, she says. But what else can she say? It isn’t satisfaction on her face. Of course, I tell her, and I’m on my way uptown again, a credit to my race.
(originally appeared in Seattle Review)
Tallgrass Prairie Preserve Kevin Rabas
The sunlight is full of midges, small flies, small as dust motes, the color of heather, and the sun is out from behind the hills, and the rain is up from the rocks and the tall grasses in waves, in mist, and my hand is clasped to hers. We walk the tallgrasses. I set up my camera, open a small box, ask her. The ring shines in the sun.
John Brown
Matthew Porubsky
My sermon remains a painting only in pencil sketches. Hangs, dangles on a tight rope. I whistle in the breeze.
On the First Warm Day in February
Lisa Moritz
This afternoon a red-bearded man in a cowboy hat cruised his blue convertible with the top down past the university. I stood on steps outside the library and watched him pass, listened to the persistence of Maples turning unopened buds toward the sun. Early warmth took me back to summers past at Lake Waconda and for a moment I was a front-seat passenger in Kim’s Buick Regal--eyes closed, feet on dashboard, head cocked back--listening to wind wrap itself around us. Nowhere to be, we took our time, found our way out to the shoreline of Takota Point and let sun sink deep into our skin. In the early evening now, I stand and watch from the kitchen window my husband who walks barefoot in the grass with his khaki trousers rolled. I separate bones from the canned salmon, break eggs, crush saltines and knead it all together. My son, his limbs pale as early blossoms, has left his red jacket at the edge of the patio. He bends beneath a spruce with a stick in his hands poking at what is to come.
poetry + literature
lit
poetry editor: Dennis Etzel Jr.
local entertainment • fun. the podcast
b y j a n i c e Wa t k i n s • p h o t o s b y E J D r a k e P h o t o g r a p h y
very radical dudes What do you get with two dudes, one kitchen table and a case of Bud Light?
American Zero on: The Jersey Shore - “It’s the same shit over and over.” Did you see when Snooki was a slut and screaming and yelling?’ Come on.” On Lifetime - “Let me guess. She is getting raped, beaten, or a combination of the two. Apparently only white people are getting beaten too.” On Branding - “I want edrake photography water presents American Zero water - all on the same label. I want people to say ‘This American Zero water brought to you by edrake photography water is the shit.’” On the podcast’s appeal to a female audience - “Absolutely not. Other than the fact that Jackie is sexy as shit.” On 2012 - [most looking forward to] “The Dark Knight Rises. I will look at that stuff at work and turn the pages with my dick - shimmy shake and swordfight.” On what’s next - “The official podcast of seveneightfive magazine?” *** If these opinions offended you in anyway, seveneightfive extends an apology. These views are not representative of our opinions as a whole. However, if you laughed out loud put that beer down and download it now.
“When I recommend something it’s because I’ve got you in mind - I’m not going to tell you to go watch
“Pregnant and Didn’t Know It” or anything like that, like ‘Oh I’ve been constipated for nine months. Oh my God, it’s a living thing.’ I don’t like my shit crying,” rants Wesley Rausch, going slightly off topic in a recent podcast. Wesley, coupled with John “Jackie” Murray, form American Zero. American Zero, with the name derived from a slogan on a friend’s t-shirt in the late nineties, began with a group of friends, aptly named the VRDs (Very Radical Dudes), performing sketches and progressed from there. They are currently branching out in the form of a weekly podcast, with growing popularity among Canadians, laughs Jackie in a recent sit-down with the duo. “We’re pretty opinionated and wanted to share that with the world,” says Wesley while slugging back a cold Bud Light at his dining room table. The growing pop-culture based podcast features everything from movie reviews, to music and current events that the pair deem entertaining. “Literally ninety percent of what we talk about on the show just randomly happens,” chortles Jackie. Meanwhile prepping for a weekly taping; snapping his finger in front of the mic, adjusting a pair of pantyhose with a bent wire inside, acting as a makeshift popper, atop a carpet-lined cardboard box to keep the echoing to a minimum during the cast. Although the makeshift operation is just re-starting in the form of podcast, American Zero’s finished product would not reflect a taping of two guys, a questionable pair of pantyhose, and a case of Bud Light. Currently available via iTunes, the Stitcher radio app for the iPhone and Android and the Blackberry podcast app, American Zero’s following continues to grow, hopefully elevating the duo to the next level. “I hope anybody that’s going to give us money is listening,” says Wesley. “I don’t care if it’s the dude down the street who says - ‘Here’s fifty bucks’.”
“The world and God,” chimes in Jackie in response to his desired audience. “I don’t,” retorts Wesley. “Because if He is...we’re never getting paid.” “We kept it real,” sighs Jackie. “Yeah, when we go up there He’s gonna say ‘Well, I was gonna send you to Hell, but your podcast is the shit,” adds Wesley, causing the table to erupt in laughter. And that is exactly how a normal podcast goes, the two’s witty banter eases the fifty minute to one hour podcast to pass unassumingly. Occasionally a local, noncelebrity guest will enter the mix and discuss topics ranging from movies that are so bad you should watch them just to see how terrible they are, to G-rated movie-goer flashers, to Jackie’s trip to the urologist.
2012 St. Patrick’s Day & March Madness (It just makes sense to)
“That’s all podcasts are opinions,” reminds Jackie. Besides, who wouldn’t want to listen to a podcast with a tagline, ‘Fun. The Podcast.’ aseveneightfive
American Zero
itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/ american-zero-podcast/id488654510 www.facebook.com/americanzero *American Zero is currently accepting applications for new podcast taglines.
2025 SW Urish Rd · Topeka · (785) 272-1432 Follow Us on Facebook for daily specials & live music
thyme for seafood by Kerrice Mapes • photos by Adam Koger
As the old saying goes, “Necessity is the mother of invention.” So perhaps one can say, “Frustration is the mother of enterprise.” It was out of frustration of missing great events in Topeka that seveneightfive was founded, to be able to gather and report on these events in one place. It was also frustration in finding quality fish in grocery stores that led Jeff Bledsoe to open Seafood Thyme. Seafood Thyme, 4008 SW Huntoon, is Topeka’s newest local specialty market. The modest space is lined with unfinished pine trim and brightened by green walls and one white display case. However, the product is what will bring this space to life, as Jeff and his wife, Tressie bring fresh fish and a new seafood experience to the Top City. The Bledsoes moved to Topeka in 2001 and at that time Jeff wasn’t much of a fish eater. “I didn’t really eat much of any fish because I didn’t know where it came from and the displays would smell bad,” said Jeff. However, after losing his job last year, one of Jeff ’s first goals was to get in shape. That’s when he starting buying fish from Florida: red snapper, scallops, shrimp, cod and salmon. “All the fish came together in one box and none of it smelled like fish.” This prompted Jeff ’s research into the industry and he asked “How can I bring fresh fish from the coast and make it affordable in a small town like Topeka?”
Facebook page for inspiration in preparing the fish, and to give those less knowledgeable the courage to try something new (think octopus). Working with four vendors including a fisherman and his wife Heather who live/fish in Alaska for four months out of the year before returning home to Illinois, and a lobster supplier in Maine, Seafood Thyme purchases the highest quality of fish for direct delivery/purchase. No farmed raised catfish from China here, Seafood Thyme customers will know where their fish comes from. The selections and quantities will be small, nothing lasting more than three days, and consumer driven. (You want seabass? Tell Jeff.) Products you can find include: Alaskan Sockeye salmon, tilapia, mahimahi, yellowfin tuna, cod, Maine lobster, Gulf shrimp, and untreated scallops. When available, look for daily specials to go, including lobster bisque, lobster rolls and shrimp cocktail. aseveneightfive
Seafood Thyme offers a variety of fresh fish each week for consumers to quickly pick up and go home to prepare. Jeff and Tressie provide recipes on their
Seafood Thyme 4008 SW Huntoon Hours: 10:30am - 6:30 pm | M-F 10:30 - 3 pm | Weekends Facebook / Recipes: @seafoodthyme www.seafoodthyme.com
The REED family has been in the restaurant business for over 30 years!
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2920 SE Croco Rd. (29th & Croco)
(785) 267-7400
Watch your favorite team all the way to the Championship Game
Topeka’s LARGEST Sports Bar 24
4731 NW Hunters Ridge Circle
(785) 286-4477
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big plans for jayhawk theatre
Target date scheduled for grand re-opening.
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by Josh Rouse • photo by Amanda Reynolds
n May 1976, the once proud Jayhawk Theatre closed its curtains for the last time, leaving behind more than 50 years of memories from a formerly-thriving entertainment venue. Nearly 40 years later, the metaphorical phoenix prepares to rise from its ashes and return to its former glory. The Jayhawk Theatre’s renovation took more steps to becoming a reality in 2011, beginning with the Jayhawk Theatre Revival benefit concert in April and The Binary Benefit in October. Later that month, the Transient Guest Committee of the Topeka City Council awarded a $42,400 grant to the Jayhawk Theatre’s renovation efforts. “[These funds are being used to provide] an air conditioning and heating solution because there’s nothing in there to keep the humidity and the temperature managed,” said Jeff Carson, member of the Jayhawk Theatre board of directors. “It’s a Jeff said the current budget of the Jayhawk Theatre board of directors is way that we can stop some of the damage that happens in the earmarked at $8 million, a number he would like to see shrink to $6 or $7 million by the time the bidding process begins. However, he doesn’t summer.” anticipate the need for city tax money to pay for the renovations, Jeff, who founded Gizmo Pictures in 2004 with his business despite the large bill for the renovations and the short amount of time partner Greg Ready, said having a functioning theatre in before the deadline. Downtown Topeka seemed like a logical decision for their business. Jeff and Greg renovated the historic Thacher Building, “I don’t think we’re going to ever have to depend on the city, it’s going at 110 S.E. 8th Ave., to set up Gizmo’s headquarters. “We have to be a non-profit organization and we’ll have on-going, sustaining a great history in Topeka as an entertainment town, a show fundraisers, and, of course, ticket sales.” business town, and it goes back 140 years. When the railroads Yet, the question remains as to how the board plans to renovate the were built, the vaudeville acts all moved around on railroads building without city money. One way Jeff mentioned is through state from city to city and they would perform at the old theatres in tax credits. all these little towns around the nation,” said Jeff. “We are going to rely on historical tax credits,” said Jeff. “Of course, With the recent pique of interest in the Jayhawk Theatre renovations, Jeff announced the restructuring of the board of directors and a target date for the Jayhawk Theatre’s grand reopening: December 2013.
the governor was trying to take those away. I don’t know where it stands now in their legislative process, but tax credits are a huge part of historic renovation. Tax credits were a part of our decision to buy the Thacher Building and renovate it.”
“Our goal is to get some significant traction this year, to get Additional funding is on the way, as well, with another Jayhawk Theatre construction started before the next winter hits,” said Jeff. Revival set to kickoff April 13 at Capital Plaza Hotel | 8p. aseveneightfive
Introducing the express pedicure at Envy Salon, because sometimes all you need is a quickie.
NOW OPEN Fresh Fish & Seafood Shop
Express Break
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Monday - Friday: 10:30am - 6:30 pm Weekends: 10:30am - 3pm
Gage Village (next to Juli’s) | www.seafoodthyme.com
In-and-Out (dry) within the hour.
$25
obtain what you desire
2601 SW 17th St | 233.5577
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parties for a cause • couture for cancer
couture for cancer Shop. Mingle. Give. by Anita Miller Fry • photos contributed
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hether it’s clashing colors or pastel princesses, the place to get your dose of fashionista trends this spring is the American Cancer Society’s 8th annual Couture for Cancer, a shopping, social and charity event. The 2012 runway show will be filled with bright colors and glittery tops, but there will also be a place for ruffles and a sugary soft approach. And be forewarned: wacky, wonderful prints are making a comeback this season on everything from dresses to swimsuits to handbags. If you want fashion in action, then this is an event you won’t want to miss. Fashion and home décor items from world-renowned and local designers will be featured at Topeka’s premier fashion event in April. Couture for Cancer will be 4 to 7 pm April 21, 2012, at Topeka Performing Arts Center (TPAC), Topeka. The Couture line-up for 2012 already includes a stunning Ayala Bar necklace, amazing handbags donated by designer Eric Javits, a turquoise Devi Kroell bag, a Lia Sophia bracelet, and a lovely handcrafted Jane August handbag.
Get involved For more information, to purchase tickets or to volunteer in the fight against cancer, contact:
For those who are also fashion conscious at home, SOHO Interiors in Westboro will be donating a stylish furniture piece. Couture for Cancer provides women (and a few lucky men) the opportunity to enjoy designer fashion and home décor from all over the world as well as local and regional boutiques. The trendy fashion event raises funds for the American Cancer Society. Attendees will enjoy hors d’oeuvres and cocktails while shopping for designer clothes, jewelry, handbags, home items, cosmetic treatments, spa experiences and more.
American Cancer Society 438.5607 Stacie.Schroeder@cancer.org. Information and online tickets for Couture for Cancer can also be found at topekacoutureforcancer.org
Designers generous to the event in the past have included Botkier, Katherine Kwei, Hayden-Harnett, Robert Graham, and Rebecca Minkoff. Well-known local and regional retailers also continue to support the event, including Anchor Gold, Boutique Ten47, Dillard’s, Gallery Classic, RowHouse Restaurant and many others. The Presenting Runway sponsor is Stormont-Vail HealthCare. Reservations are available for $75 per lady. A limited number of reserved seating tickets are $100 each and special VIP seating is $175 each. All attendees will receive a “swag bag” full of fabulous items. “The Man” Table sponsorship reservations are also being sold, which includes a man’s gift bag and special amenities. A limited number of gentlemen’s tickets are $500 each. aseveneightfive
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Check out the Couture for Cancer Facebook page where you can get a sneak peek at the designer fashions, handbags, jewelry and home decor items that have been donated.
art
22 abstract paintings based on poems featured at SouthWind Gallery.
after words b y D e n n i s E t z e l Jr.
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s the ekphrastic brainchild of SouthWind Art Gallery owner Gary Glitsch and Kansas City artist Jennifer Rivera, “Art After Words” is a collaboration between Jennifer and Topeka poets. Jennifer is set to finish 22 abstract paintings based on poems submitted, which will be displayed in the Gallery. The opening is set for the First Friday Art Walk on March 2, to continue through April 21. There are plans in the making for March 2 to have each poem revealed for each piece, then during a VIP event, there will be a poetry reading and each poet will have an opportunity to write a new poem based on another piece of artwork. Whatever plans develop, you should mark the evening of March 2 on your calendar, to make it down to SouthWind Gallery, 3074 SW 29th Street (across from Brookwood Shopping Center)aseveneightfive
interview with artist How did Art After Words come about? I’ve always been fascinated by words of various forms (song lyrics, quotes, phrases, poetry, etc.), and I often find myself using those words as inspiration while painting. One afternoon I was working on a poetry-inspired piece and this idea to do an entire poetry inspired series kept nagging at me. I kept thinking that a sort of “reverse ekphrasis” type of series might be a fun challenge. I hadn’t done any sort of collaborative work before and I had no idea how it would pan out, but I decided to give it a shot. I sent out a local call to poets requesting poetry to use as inspiration for a series of abstract paintings. The call ended
up going national, and I received poetry from as far as California and New York. 37 abstract paintings resulted from the collaboration and they were exhibited in a two-month run in the Kansas City Crossroads last Spring. The series was received very well by both the poets that were involved, as well as the general public. Fast forward a few months to this past summer when I met Gary Blitsch of SouthWind Gallery. Gary contacted me about possibly showing some of my work in his space. Soon thereafter I met with him at his fantastic gallery and I knew right away he would be someone I would enjoy working with. I had brought a few pieces with me for him to check out and as we discussed them, I mentioned the collaborative show I had done. Gary loved the idea and we decided to try it again! We sent out another call to poets and received some really amazing poetry which has been a lovely inspiration to work with. The end result...Art After Words!
What similarities do you see between painting and poetry? The most obvious similarity between painting and poetry is expression. Each art form uses their medium to express some sort of emotional journey. For me, the mark of both a good painting as well as a good poem is when the piece not only conveys the artist’s message, but also allows the viewer to connect with the piece and experience a journey that is all their own. aseveneightfive Known for edgy and emotionally evocative abstract paintings, Jennifer Rivera often employs the use of texture, bold strokes, and rich colors in her work. She has exhibited in many local KC shows as well as in Osage Beach and Des Moines, and has appeared in numerous publications. Rivera’s work has been purchased by collectors from across the country. Her works hang in both private and corporate collections.
>>> Check out www.southwindartgallery.com and wix.com/artistjennifer/rivera
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where do you get your moxie? by Cale Herreman
• photos Adam Koger
soda renaissance
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n the mood for something sweet and fizzy? I recommend that you pay a visit to the NoTo Arts District on the weekend. You can find galleries, art studios, a couple places to eat, shops, and the only place in town to get vintage soda. Within Rusty Haggles Antiques, 826 N. Kansas Avenue is Soda Works, “Your One Stop Pop Shop.” Essentially, Soda Works is a cooler with glass bottles of soda pop that look like they came through a time warp from the 50’s. They are not antiques, but the point is to bring back an experience from the past, stir memories, and enjoy a tasty beverage. Brian Adams, the proprietor (I’ll call him that because it sounds old-timey), recalls, “On our first First Friday, I knew that I had something when a young couple came in, and she grabbed her fella and said, ‘They have Bubble Up!’” Remember Bubble Up? It’s all right if you don’t, but now you have a chance to try it. But you simply must try Moxie, a soda from New England that is new around these parts. It’s a little like a cola, and a root beer, and a cream soda, and a Dr. Pepper, somehow mixed together. And try a Double Cola, the fourth most popular cola in the country. “But people don’t think about number four,” says Adams. “With Coke and Pepsi so dominant, small bottlers had to find their niche. Double Cola was national at one point,” but now it is regional, mostly found in Tennessee. 28
Most of Soda Works’ drinks come from other parts of the country. It does carry the Lost Trail brand, which is made in Louisburg, Kansas, and has some lowcalorie options. Those are local to us, but the others are someone else’s local option. Adams connects this to our bubbling zeitgeist: “There’s a whole generation that’s straying away from the corporate culture. Part of it knows that Coke and Pepsi will survive, even if a meteor hit them. But there are these little guys, and if you could support them a couple dollars at a time, they’ll do it. It benefits everyone. It makes the smaller companies more competitive.” “I read a report a year or so ago that, nationally, soda sales have dipped quite a bit. But, at the same time, the small, local, vintage, more boutique brands, have seen resurgence. So I think we’re hitting a vintage soda renaissance right now,” says Adams, as I finish my bottle of Dad’s Root Beer. Amen. aseveneightfive
Soda Works Rusty Haggles Antiques
826 North Kansas Ave. | 817.0828 HOURS: Thursday + Saturday: 10 am - 6 pm Sunday: Noon - 4 pm
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deejay’s job is finding that perfect balance between art and audience. Mixing sounds and scratching records, beat matching, phrasing and slip-cueing take a nuanced knowledge of and feel for music and rhythms. But getting beats and bodies to come together to create that hot, sweaty mess of a dance floor can be a challenge.
Jason Peters, president and COO of local business Tradepost, began working with this musical art form in 1987, while he was a senior in high school. He was immediately hooked on both the music and mixing in the scene and started deejaying soon after. His original exposure to the idea of mixing came in the fifth grade when he watched the 1989 Olivia Newton-John movie, “Xanadu.” At that point, Jason knew he had the “bite” on music mixing even if he didn’t know what a deejay was at that time. “I didn’t even know I wanted to be a deejay,” Jason said. “I just knew I wanted to blend music together.” The biggest influence from “Xanadu” was a scene involving two individuals with very different music tastes. “There’s this part in the movie where this young guy and this old guy are talking about starting this night club,” Jason said. “The old guy, his vision is that there’s this big band that’s playing and it looks like an old ‘20’s club, and the young guy has got this crazy rock band playing that has the ‘80’s bad hair look. They keep going back and forth talking and while they’re doing that, it switches the music back and forth between them. At the end, the weird thing is the two visions start coming together. I saw that and just thought it was so cool how they did it.” In 1998, Jason walked into a now-defunct Topeka computer business looking for music software and met Travis Williams, who is now director of technology for the Kansas Attorney General’s Office. The duo became fast friends and deejay collaborators, working under the name, “The Hit Squad.” But Travis had some skills to learn -- including mixing old-school, with records, not computers. “I was forced by Jason to learn to mix the right way,” Travis said. “I was basically given two records and he said ‘You’ve got an hour. Figure it out.’ So, there was no sync button or key adjustment. I had to learn. I didn’t get to play for a year out (in public) before I felt worthy.” In the early 2000s, a venue known as Pure Energy opened at Forbes Field. Renowned deejays from other states, even other countries, would make the trip to Topeka to play in front of audiences of 300 to 1,000 people. Jason and Travis were right there with the rest, even running some of the events. “For about six to eight years, my website [Syde-Sho] was pretty much the website to go to for any of your electronic music,” Jason said. “My site was there if you wanted to know where the parties were at or where the deejays were, and that was pretty much for the Midwest. We had people on the website that posted from Omaha, Wichita, St. Louis, but Kansas City was pretty much our hub.” Unfortunately, Pure Energy didn’t last and Syde-Sho more recently lost steam due to Facebook’s popularity. Following the closing of Pure Energy, the most recent attempt by Travis and Jason was at a venue called Axis. But it, too, didn’t make the cut. “We couldn’t find enough people to support the music,” said Travis. Roughly a year and a half ago, another effort was put into reviving the electronic music with the addition of a dance event called Resistance each Thursday at the Boobie Trap Bar, 1417 W. 6th Ave. The venue routinely plays all types of electronic music, not only top-40 hits. William Johnson, a regular DJ at Resistance and Washburn University student, can attest that although Resistance receives a
PIGSKIN’S HAS IT ALL! Nothing is better than award-winning BBQ, cold beer, hot sports and toe-tapping music. Join us for the BEST GAME IN TOWN!
PARTY, BAND AND BASKETBALL SCHEDULE: Wed.- Sat. March 7-10 Big 12 Basketball Tournament Sun. March 11 Selection Sunday Party Thurs.- Sun. March 15-18 NCAA Tournament Sat. March 17 St. Patrick’s Day Party Thurs.- Sun. March 22-25 NCAA Tournament Sat. March 31 Final Four Party followed by Josh Vowell & The Rumble Fri. April 6 Fri. April 13 Fri. April 20 Sat. April 21 Fri. April 27
That 70’s Party Urban Graffitti Party Pigskin’s Pajama Party Josh Vowell & The Rumble Animal House Toga Party
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