Downtown Topeka special section

The Topeka Capital-Journal | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | 1A

D O W N T O W N :

E X P A N D I N G

T H E

C O R E

DOWNTOWN RETAIL S E C T I O N

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O F

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TAKING AIM DOWNTOWN THE JAYHAWK THEATRE

A group of dedicated Topekans determined to restore this entertainment venue to its grandeur.

RISING LEADERS

These visionaries have made a difference in rejuvenating downtown Topeka. Meet them.

FOOD & FUN

Who says there’s nothing to do in downtown Topeka and NOTO? Check out these dining and entertainment offerings.

2A | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | The Topeka Capital-Journal

CYRUS HOTEL

A designer’s insight

By Morgan Chilson

morgan.chilson@cjonline.com

Sometimes knowing what you don’t know is the most crucial wisdom you bring to a project.

Cody Foster, co-founder of Advisors Excel and founder of AIM Strategies, is confident in the financial advisory business. But when he decided to open a hotel in downtown Topeka, he went looking for someone with top skills who knows the hotel business. He found that person in David Bowd, founder and CEO of Salt Hotels, an award-winning firm that specializes in creating boutique hotels and brings international expertise to the process.

Bowd talked to The Topeka CapitalJournal about the process of creating a specialty hotel like the Cyrus.

Q: How do you begin the process of designing a hotel?

A: “I think the first thing that we spend a lot of time on is really understanding the local neighborhood, the local environment — looking at the neighborhood, the competitors and then also the needs,” Bowd said, adding that he considered not just local needs, but also explored Kansas City and Lawrence to see what hotel offerings were there.

“I looked at the conference or wedding market and how strong that is, particularly in Lawrence,” he said. “Cody and I had many, many discussions about this, and he really felt as a local business owner and from the owner of the hotel, that the meetings and events side of things are critical to our future success. We spent a lot of time looking at that. Then that evolved, and naturally bloomed into what makes us different. How do we create something when a meeting or event planner is sitting with four or five hotel brochures in front of them, what’s going to make us stand out from our competitors?”

Q: What goes into creating event spaces?

A: “The way people do meetings and events has changed significantly over the last 10 years,” Bowd said. “There is less of a formality with most meetings. It’s more casual; there are more break-outs. As we planned the hotel, we wanted to take all of that into consideration, not only how does a meeting work today, but how is a

Q&A

David Bowd, founder and CEO of Salt Hotels

“It’s keeping it a space where people just naturally feel very, very comfortable when they come into it,” he said.

Q: Does this extend to the restaurant and bar?

A: “I think that when I approach those, and I’ve done so much traveling on my own, I always think of the single traveler, male or female, and the ability to sit at a bar and have dinner and not feel like you’re the leper in the room because you’re on your own,” he said. “Or feel that you have to eat in your room because you’re on your own.”

Rather than creating a bar atmosphere, Bowd said he focuses on making it a lounge or cocktail area.

SUBMITTED

David Bowd, the internationally renowned owner of Salt Hotels, is bringing his design and management expertise to the Cyrus Hotel in downtown Topeka. meeting going to work in 10 years.”

Shorter, high-tech meetings are the norm today, and Bowd said it’s also important to consider how everyone will want to stay connected during a meeting.

“If suddenly, you’ve got 300 people on your wireless system, you have to be able to cope with that.”

Other considerations are how the space will be used and Bowd said he looked at not only meetings but also studio and exhibition potential for events such as First Friday.

One of Bowd’s favorite aspects of the meeting spaces at the Cyrus Hotel is they all have natural light.

“That to me really gives us a great edge. You’re not going to feel like you’re

in a basement,” he said.

Q: How do you determine an atmosphere for the hotel and then create it?

A: “I spend a lot of time just sitting in cafes or restaurants and just looking at who’s using them, how are they using them, how long are they seated for, that sort of thing,” Bowd said. “I really felt that the lobby should be a gathering place for the community. If you just want to meet your girlfriend or meet a client or meet a work colleague, you could just sit in the lobby of the hotel and have a cup of coffee, get full service. It’s just a little place where you can have a conversation.

To create that feel, Bowd avoids being “too fancy,” or having an elitist feel.

Q: What’s the most challenging thing to get right?

A: “It’s so funny. It’s trying to anticipate how people will use the space,” Bowd said. “We spend a lot of time, even to the point where we will mark out walls and doors in blue tape in a large space, and think about if I’m arriving in the hotel, I physically walk here to check in, I then go to my room.”

He tries to think of everything, such as where people will go to have a cigarette, how wide the doors need to be, “always anticipating and trying to figure out as best we possibly can how people will use the space.”

“Realistically, they rarely use it the way we expect them to use it,” Bowd said. “You start and modify everything as you go.

We approach every project as, ‘Let’s get it as close as we can, and then when people are in the lobby and hotel, we can see how they’re really, really using it.’ I was just saying to an architect literally 15 minutes ago, where we are today is let’s get it so it’s as flexible as humanly possible because everything changes. It’s a constant state of change. It’s all about using our experience as much as possible, but then keeping the flexibility.”

The Topeka Capital-Journal | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | 3A

4A | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | The Topeka Capital-Journal

Developers are taking aim downtown

By Morgan Chilson

morgan.chilson@cjonline.com

The Cyrus Hotel will rise out of the ground in the next months, changing the downtown landscape and fueling excitement about the area’s revitalization.

In recent weeks, the McPherson team has cleared all the buildings out, including existing basements, and they’ve begun to put in the foundations for the hotel, said Seth Wagoner, AIM Strategies CEO and CFO. AIM is the company founded by Cody Foster, Advisors Excel co-founder, to organize his development projects.

In May, the steel began arriving for the tower construction, which will fill the upcoming months, Wagoner said.

“Really, over the next three to six months, that’s the main thing that people are going to see change in the downtown skyline,” he said. “Once that tower is done, then we’ll start working on a lot of the interior design and finishes. It’s going to be fun.”

Organizing a project of this size and scope in a downtown area has taken skill and finesse. Wagoner said he’s grateful to Marvin Spees, who owns the vacant lot on the northeast corner of 10th Avenue and Kansas Avenue, in a way that can’t be fully explained.

“Without him and the availability of that lot, Kansas Avenue would probably have to be shut down between 9th and 10th streets,” Wagoner said. “We’d have to stage everything in the street, which would be detrimental to all the merchants that are already there. I can’t be thankful enough.”

Others in the area, including the state of Kansas employees at the Scott Building, 120 S.E. 10th Ave., have been helpful, too, he added, as construction crews have moved equipment and supplies in through their parking areas.

“Constructing in a downtown environment is much different than a field out on Wanamaker,” Wagoner said.

But progress on the hotel and restaurant has been steady and good. The challenge of replacing the 920 facade, which in original plans was supposed to be left standing but was found to be in bad shape, has been dealt with.

“We’re going to replace that,” he said.

“We can’t, according to the historical standards, replicate it. But it’s going to be 90 percent of what it looked like. We’re trying to use some of the materials that we saved out of the old building, use some of the same bricks, some of the alternating patterns of design. People are going to be like, ‘Did they just lift it and shift it?’ ” Right now, when he’s not juggling multiple other development projects, Wagoner tries to pop by the job site and take videos and appreciate the forward movement.

“We’re extremely excited,” he said. “It’s that satisfaction of progress.”

In other news

Even as the Cyrus Hotel dominates the excitement downtown, AIM Strategies owns several buildings and each is at different stages of renovation and occupancy. n 921 S. Kansas — The former Skivvie’s bar, this long and narrow building is va-

cant. “We’ve shown it many times. I think honestly we’re being a little bit picky,” Wagoner said. “The overriding thing thatwe want for downtown is we want it to be different. We don’t want it to be a redundant offering. We want it to be something that somebody who lives out on 21st and Urish, they want to come downtown.” n 915 S. Kansas — This “very exciting” mystery project should be ready to be announced by the end of the year, Wagoner said. n 913 S. Kansas — Formerly The Merchant, this building will have a new loft on the second floor, but Wagoner said there are no plans yet for what goes into the space on the first floor. The loft space will be used by executives working on the Cyrus Hotel. After their work is completed, it will be leased out. n 735 S. Kansas — Determining a project for the former Wrap City restaurant is on hold while other projects are in the works. Wagoner said there is an “amazingly cool” basement in the building and numerous options are being considered.

It probably will be a bar and should be open in 2018, he added. n 705 S. Kansas — This is the location of the RND Corner Grill, which is expected to open in the first quarter of 2018. n 112 S.W. 6th — The Columbian, a historic building, will be home to a new restaurant, The White Linen, and will continue to offer space for a variety of businesses. Wagoner said each floor will be redone, one at a time to accommodate tenants. n 107 S.W. 6th — This building, home

to Designed Business Interiors, is getting a complete remodel, Wagoner said.

Eventually, two spaces will be opened up for retail use. In addition, the building includes a warehouse, which is being used for storing items for Cyrus Hotel.

Wagoner studies the downtown area to make the best decisions for the buildings owned by AIM. He tries to consider what is needed to make the area successful.

Although food and entertainment have been a prime focus, in the future, he’d like to see something that will draw families downtown.

“It needs something downtown that a family in Seneca or Hiawatha, Kan., is going to wake up and say, ‘Hey, let’s take our kids down there and let’s see this or let’s do this. We’re gonna eat downtown, and we’re going to stay at the Cyrus Hotel or the Ramada.’ Bars and restaurants are great, but there also needs to be some sort of family entertainment component that’s going to come.”

Wagoner said he reached out to Dave and Busters, but businesses like that don’t open for an area with a population of less than 700,000 people.

Such a family draw may be “next level” for downtown. For now, Wagoner and AIM Strategies staff are juggling numerous projects.

“It’s tough. It’s tough,” Wagoner said.

“You’ve got to have a passion for it. It’s fun. I guess my ultimate goal is I’m tired of looking at architectural blueprints and plans. It’s just very rewarding to get things open. I just want to see downtown Topeka succeed.”

Klausman eyes $40M residential project

By Morgan Chilson

morgan.chilson@cjonline.com

Jim Klausman and Butch Eaton launched Midwest Health Inc. in the 1970s, with just one assisted living facility. Today, the pair own more than 50 facilities in multiple states.

But it was about 20 years ago they began to invest in developments outside of the assisted living field, including projects in the downtown area but also throughout the city and in other communities.

“We got involved with the downtown Barley’s,” Klausman said. “It didn’t do so well, but we saw what worked and didn’t work.”

Barley’s Brewhaus opened in 1995 at 805 S. Kansas Ave. Klausman owns the building today.

That venture spawned others, and right now, Klausman, usually with various partners, owns more than 15 buildings downtown. The projects have been many and Jim Klausman varied, from renovating the Dibbles building in 2008 to the tune of $600,000 to purchasing the Kansan Towers at 830 S. Kansas Ave. He bought the commercial and residential building in 2015 with Eaton and Mike Tryon.

Klausman and his partners are taking their time to find appropriate tenants for their multiple buildings.

“Right now, we’re just exploring all the possibilities in the buildings we do own,” Klausman said. “We have the building that’s behind CoreFirst building, which is at 923 Quincy, that we are in discussions with a large multi-family operator out of Kansas City to do a joint venture on.”

The former AT&T headquarters building is 10 stories, he said, and the renovation project there will be in the range of $40 million to $50 million.

“There are several ones that are like this in Kansas City that we’re looking at, built on that same kind of format,” Klausman said. “We’re exploring those right now and hope to be able to start that either later this year or early next year.”

As he looks at increasing residential living opportunities downtown, Klausman said his team also has talked with grocers and other businesses.

“I think that where we’ve lacked before is having all the different services and the residential down there to promote the rest of the entertainment,” he said. “You really have to bring all of those together to make the whole thing successful.”

As he looks at uses for the buildings he and his partners own, Klausman said creating a “cool factor” is an important part of revitalization. He sees that occurring in projects like the downtown plaza.

The whole downtown area, he said, is just in the beginning of the process.

“I think we’ve set the table, and now we just need to go ahead and work out

KLAUSMAN ON DOWNTOWN JUST BEGINNING: “I think we’ve set the table, and now we just need to go ahead and work out the rest of it.”

SUCCESSFUL DOWNTOWNS: “They have walkability factor, and they have a cool factor, and that’s where a lot of the young people would like to live, as well as people who are retired that are looking to downsize.”

CITIES STEP UP: “A lot of cities have been very aggressive in terms of trying to attract people to grow their cities. It just doesn’t happen without interaction between the city and the county and the developer.” the rest of it,” he said. “It’s not going to be an overnight type of process. You have to have buy-in from a lot of different businesses that haven’t really thought about being downtown before, and we’re working on those types.”

Most successful cities that Klausman visits in his travels have strong downtowns.

“They have walkability factor, and they have a cool factor, and that’s where a lot of the young people would like to live, as well as people who are retired that are looking to downsize. They want to be in an area where you can walk out your door and walk to a coffee shop or walk to a grocery store. It makes a big difference.”

Klausman said when he talks to potential tenants, he uses other successful downtowns as examples, such as Manhattan and Lawrence. Manhattan, in particular, has done “a tremendous job” on its downtown.

“I think they did it right, not only with the mall down there, but then the (Flint Hills) Discovery Center,” he said.

“They actually passed a STAR bond that helped them tremendously in bringing a lot of new business downtown. I think those are things we need to think about for our downtown, as well as how to bring public and private partnership together to make it successful.”

STAR bonds are Sales Tax Revenue Bonds.

What’s missing to move the downtown forward?

“I think that anything the city and the county can do to help developers down there. It is a risk right now. It hasn’t been in the past, in the immediate past, very successful,” Klausman said. “I think anything that would be helpful to both the developers and the city in the long-term would be beneficial to both.”

Klausman has used a TIF program, or Tax Increment Financing, in several cities where he’s developed projects, including a $386 million development in Osage Beach, Mo. There, he and partners are building a 226-acre development that includes assisted living facilities.

“The city stepped up and did a large TIF program, about a $60 million TIF program, down there for us,” Klausman said, adding that programs like that or industrial revenue bond issues make or break investment decisions.

“A lot of cities have been very aggressive in terms of trying to attract people to grow their cities,” he said. “It just doesn’t happen without interaction between the city and the county and the developer.”

CHRIS NEAL/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Juli Earl has owned the Classic Bean at its current location, 722 S. Kansas, since 1999. It’s one of the longest-running restaurants downtown, having opened in 1993.

Popular deli/coffee shop looking for evening crowd Classic Bean owner wants to see interest downtown before expanding entertainment

By Savanna Maue

savanna.maue@cjonline.com

Juli Earl has been a downtown Topeka business owner for a long time, 24 years in October.

She’s seen businesses come and go, and she has seen the many mistakes new businesses have made.

“It’s like two steps forward and one step back is how I’ve seen this happen,” Earl said, talking about progress downtown.

“When I came in, there was still a little bit of shopping down here. … So many stores that were here haven’t been replaced.”

The first Classic Bean was at 628 S. Kansas Ave. In 1999, Earl bought 722 S. Kansas Ave. and moved the coffee shop and restaurant there. She loves the character of the old building, which was built in 1887.

“I don’t want to be known as just the coffee place. My interests are more in food and nightlife and gatherings, that’s where my interest is,” Earl said. “We did coffee because there was no coffee. When I opened the coffee shop, there were no other coffee shops in this town. Kansas City had a few, but it was just really new to the Midwest.”

Since then, the Classic Bean has expanded to two other locations, a drive-through on Urish Road and a Fairlawn location, which is the Bean’s main entertainment venue with music offered two or three nights a week.

While Earl would like to expand her entertainment offerings to the downtown location, she has to see the evening crowd before she’ll commit.

Earl said she tried to offer music in the past, but licensing companies swooped in.

“There’s a heavy fee for any kind of licensing entertainment, so I shut it down until it’s more feasible, until I see more stores and shopping and attractions of some sort to bring people down,” she said.

“And I’m not trying to get around that, I pay it at Fairlawn, but it’s well worth it because I have such a great clientele, and there’s such few places that do entertainment anymore.”

In June 2016, Earl expanded Classic Bean Downtown’s hours to 7 p.m. and added alcohol to the menu.

Another addition to the downtown location was a remodeled meeting room upstairs that holds about 40 people, new bathrooms and a small seating area. Earl said plans for the space were always in the works, but after a fire next door in 2015, she and her husband, Doug, were forced to make quick decisions.

Across the hall from the meeting room sits a large event space, with beamed ceilings and white-washed walls, which is being used for storage. But Earl said, in the right time, she would love to be able to bring more events downtown.

“I would like to do more catering and host more receptions and things down here,” she said. “I still do want to get some salsa dancing, wine tastings, not necessarily paired with food in the beginning, because that’s a lot of extra work to get it paired with food, but wine tasting is what I have done in my pastime and to just bring some education down here.”

The Topeka Capital-Journal | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | 5A

6A | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | The Topeka Capital-Journal

Iconic building to house fine-dining restaurant

By Morgan Chilson

morgan.chilson@cjonline.com

A gourmet chef who’s been creating sell-out dinners in Holton is bringing his brand of food magic to a new restaurant in downtown Topeka.

Adam VanDonge will open a high-end, fine-dining restaurant, The White Linen, in one of Topeka’s oldest and most iconic buildings, The Columbian at 112 S.W. 6th Ave. The red facade of The Columbian, called The Knox Building when it was erected in 1888, has been home to offices and The Columbian Bank and Trust for decades. But the bank closed in 2008 and the building languished, waiting to be sold until last year, when investor Cody Foster bought it.

VanDonge will bring a new purpose to the building, taking over space on the first floor to open his restaurant. He has honed his experience operating The Drum Room in Holton, and the kind of unusual, can’t-stop-talking-about-it experience customers have there is exactly what he wants to re-create in Topeka.

A graduate of AIB International in Kansas City, VanDonge worked as a sous-chef in Oklahoma City before returning home to open The Fifth Street Sandwich Shoppe on Holton’s square. An old room in the back of the shop became The Drum Room more than two years ago.

“I do just one dinner a month, on Friday, Saturday night,” VanDonge said. “It’s a seven-course meal. I usually put the menu on my website, and then I’ll say the date and time that seats become available. Usually within five to 10 minutes, they sell out.”

A recent menu featured a choice of coffee-crusted pork tenderloin with parsnip puree and sweet blueberry sauce or beef tenderloin with red-skinned potatoes, horseradish, chive cream and fried onions. For dessert, VanDonge served chocolate soup with croissant croutons and whipped creme fraiche.

But before considering menus for Topeka, VanDonge was de-

termined to find the perfect location for The White Linen. A history lover, he walked into The Columbian and knew he’d found the perfect place.

“We’re going to knock a couple of walls down, and then just do some painting and different things,” he said. “We’re going to build a really nice bar, and specialize in some high-end wines and bourbon and scotch.”

VanDonge is doing the restaurant design himself, but his goal is to keep it simple, even in the kitchen.

“We’re going to do it how we did the Drum Room; everything’s super simple, but we just do it really well,” he said. “I don’t need all the bells and whistles; you can do so much with different foods without having every little gadget possible.”

Seth Wagoner, CEO and CFO of AIM Strategies, which owns the building, said he was pleased VanDonge recognized the value of the historic Columbian building.

“I don’t think Topeka knows how cool that building is,” Wagoner said. “We showed him at least three or four of our different properties that we have downtown, and he just fell in love with the Columbian building.”

The building’s character, with tall ceilings and beautiful details, will make The White Linen special, he added.

The restaurant menu will change monthly, VanDonge said, and it will feature everything from duck and quail to fois gras and truffles.

“What my plans are, as of now, will be to offer a couple of appe-

THAD ALLTON/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Adam and Kasie VanDonge will open The White Linen, a fine-dining restaurant, in the historic Columbian Building (below), 112 S.W. 6th Ave. The couple has plans to create a special chef’s table as part of the restaurant, where diners will be served by Adam VanDonge in the building’s bank vault. tizers, maybe a soup and salad, and then we’ll have a small menu, probably four to five entrees, and then one or two desserts,” he said.

VanDonge said the restaurant will seat 30 to 40 people, and he’ll be able to offer two sittings each evening, available by reservation only.

The goal, he said, is to let the atmosphere and food sell the restaurant. With his Holton businesses, he did little advertising other than online. His wife, Kasie VanDonge, is just starting law school, but she created websites for the sandwich shop and the Drum Room and will do so for The White Linen.

She also pitches in as a server in Holton, but law school will probably limit her ability to help out in Topeka.

Although he’s keeping some surprises under wraps until the restaurant opens, VanDonge shared plans to make use of the

old bank vault in The Columbian.

“Inside the money vault will be the chef’s table, which we’ll rent out one time a night, and I will be the one who takes care of that party,” he said.

He plans to close down The

Drum Room, but he will keep the sandwich shop open.

“The Drum Room was that first stepping stone,” VanDonge said.

“Topeka is my next huge step, so I really want to focus on making this awesome.”

The Topeka Capital-Journal | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | 7A

8A | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | The Topeka Capital-Journal

Investor’s focus: Creating a warm welcome

By Morgan Chilson

morgan.chilson@cjonline.com

Jerry Shelor can tell stories.

It’s easy to get sidetracked from current conversation topics into his tales from decades of lobbying the Kansas Legislature, taking a dive into personalities of top state officials and rarely exposed behind-thescenes maneuvering on issues that changed the Kansas landscape.

But it’s not just the legal and political landscape that Shelor has shifted. He turned toward making a mark on Topeka’s downtown in 2000.

Along with his friend, Mike Fox, Shelor purchased property on the corner of 10th Avenue and Quincy Street, which at the time was home to a dilapidated garage but would soon become Quincy Street Plaza.

The vision was to create a gathering place with international cuisine, featuring varied restaurants. In addition, upstairs space became lofts, and Shelor put his business in another space on the first floor. Today, Daylight Donuts anchors the corner of the plaza, and the Globe Indian Cuisine and Stephanie’s Hair Salon are next door. Opened in May is Bruno’s Downtown Grill and Bar. In the beginning, Shelor said he and Fox “came up with a vision” for the property, focused on creating a spot that would give passers-by a good feeling about the city.

Many people come into Topeka from the

THAD ALLTON/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

When investor Jerry Shelor bought property on the corner of 10th Avenue and Quincy Street, he focused on creating a welcoming ambiance for drivers coming off Interstate 70. nearby Interstate 70 ramp, and Shelor said he wanted to affect how they thought about the capital.

“The entrance to our capital should look like the front door, not the back door. We said, ‘Wouldn’t it be nice to see people sitting in a courtyard, enjoying meals and socializing,’ ” he said. “I think that sets the

tone in people’s mind that you’re a modern, progressive city.”

The concept of an open-air garden on the property’s east side, near Daylight Donuts, was born. Today, Shelor fills containers with flowers and does much of the planting himself to beautify the space.

“I’m a farm kid,” he said. “I like plant-

ing things.”

Shelor, who said he’s been told over and over again that he won’t succeed, believes in what’s happening downtown.

“I’m excited. We’re on the verge of greatness,” he said. “A synergy’s being created.”

Over the years, Shelor bought Fox out of the business as Fox pursued other interests, including The Celtic Fox. But he kept the vision for the space, wanting to draw in restaurants and businesses that added unique flavor to the downtown area.

“My sole concern is to improve this corner,” he said. “It’s all pieces of a puzzle that we have to put together and make it work.

I’m just part of a big puzzle.”

Shelor isn’t resting on his laurels. He recently purchased the building that houses Arturo’s Mexican Restaurant at 105 S.E. 10th Ave., which he’s been trying to acquire for years.

Shelor and Fox also plunged into the loft market, and now Shelor is adding a new loft to the three they already had in the building. He’s converting some office space to loft space.

“It’s easier at this point to rent lofts than it is office space,” he said.

Like other downtown investors, Shelor is appreciative of the efforts made to help developers in the area. He built the lofts using Downtown Topeka Inc. grants.

“I would not have done the lofts had DTI not done the grants,” he said.

Celtic Fox packs calendar with summer events

By Savanna Maue

savanna.maue@cjonline.com

Owner Mike Fox knew as long as there were people in the Capitol, The Celtic Fox at the corner of S.W. 8th Ave. and S.W. Jackson St., would have business.

For 20 years, Fox traveled across the country, building and remodeling more than 700 units for Payless ShoeSource. At home in Topeka, he would buy and build locally.

“The downtown really intrigued me,” Fox said. “And we found this building here which I loved, and I always thought it’d be really cool to have the bar right across the street from the Capitol.”

The Celtic Fox opened in 2003,

and while some may not feel that the nightlife scene in Topeka has improved, those who have spent more than a decade downtown beg to differ.

“It’s changed dramatically,” said Katie Turner, entertainment and booking manager for The Celtic Fox. “Downtown used to be just a complete ghost town after 6 p.m. There was nothing going on. There was hardly even life on the street.”

Turner pointed to the addition of lofts and apartments that have brought more people downtown in the evenings, as well as art installations and the features along S. Kansas Ave. She also cited First Friday activities and efforts by Downtown Topeka Inc., Visit Topeka and others to bring more events downtown.

“I mean, last summer really was the first time that it was exciting to be downtown,” she said.

“We’re really trying to pack the summer full of fun events that we’re doing, that DTI and Visit Topeka are doing. We almost have something going every single weekend at least through the middle of August, which is very exciting for downtown,” Turner said.

Traveling across the country for business, Fox spent a lot of time in different cities and would travel to their downtowns and compare them to Topeka’s.

“These other cities had a lot of life in them, and I figured it would just be a matter of time before Topeka caught up to everybody else,” he said.

CHRIS NEAL/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Entertainment and booking manager for The Celtic Fox, Katie Turner, works with owner Mike Fox.

The Topeka Capital-Journal | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | 9A

Developers push downtown boundaries Growth beyond Kansas Avenue needed, they say

By Morgan Chilson

morgan.chilson@cjonline.com

Downtown Topeka isn’t an area defined by Kansas Avenue.

Although significant revitalization work has been done between 10th and 6th avenues, the success of the downtown will involve an area that encompasses a much larger area. In the past, Downtown Topeka Inc. leader Vince Frye has defined it as Topeka Boulevard east to Adams Street and then from the river to 12th Street.

In the past year, investors have begun to purchase buildings in areas off Kansas, and Frye expects to see that expansion continue.

“Downtown, as we define it, is much more than just Kansas Avenue,” Frye said. “It’s very important that the success we’ve had so far continues in other parts of that downtown area. I think we’ll just continue to see other expansion moving outward. You can’t just rely on a four-block area; it’s got to be something that is supportive of that initial investment.”

Frye pointed to the investment

by Kansas Health Institute in its 212 S.W. 8th Ave. building and said he expects to see more projects like that.

“I think that’s indicative of other things that will be happening, moving outward from the core,” he said. “The city is starting to talk about 6th to the river, and there are certainly projects taking place currently for lofts and other development closer to the northern end of Kansas Avenue.”

Ken Schmanke, president and CEO of K1 Realty LLC, has been selling real estate in the Topeka market for decades. For years, when he was part of KS Commercial, a core principle was the owners didn’t invest in commercial real estate, Schmanke said, because they didn’t compete with

‘‘

I was just getting kind of bored, so I bought a building and thought I would just kind of do it as I had time. But that isn’t the way I like to do things. I’ve already got the roof done, and I’m ready to put the front on it.”

MIKE FOX

downtown investor

their customers.

“I’m kind of in the beginning of my second real estate career,” he said. “Since I’ve left there, one of my strategies was to Fox be more active and involved in the ownership and development of real estate.”

His third purchase — after the former Outback building that now houses Panda Kitchen and a strip mall at 400 S.W. 29th St. — was a building off downtown’s main avenue.

Schmanke bought the former credit union building at 707 S.E. Quincy St. in February, his first downtown investment.

“We’re just kind of trying to slowly build,” he said. “I’m looking for other good projects as well. I try to find properties where I can add some value somehow.”

On the Quincy building, which Shawnee County appraises at $358,500, Schmanke said he’s doing mostly cosmetic work, including putting in new restrooms on the second and third floors.

“It is brand-new space,” he said, “with basically all new finishes, floors, ceilings, lights. I’m putting in brand-new, high-efficiency LED lighting.”

It’s fun to explore the history of the building as he works. It was built in 1900 by the American Le-

THAD ALLTON/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Topeka investor Ken Schmanke is currently remodeling 707 S.E. Quincy St. He’s confident the property will add value to the downtown area. gion, Schmanke said, and then in the mid-1970s, a credit union “put a new skin” on the building.

“The third floor used to be the ballroom, so it’s clear, light, open space,” he said. “For a lot of what’s going on in today’s environment with open floor plans, I think it would be well received. I’m putting in a lot of glass walls for what few walls we do have. I think the days of a lot of closed offices and long corridors are gone.”

Mike Fox, another downtown investor, has also wandered off the main avenue — although, of course, his most well-known business, The Celtic Fox, isn’t on Kansas Avenue either.

But in recent months, Fox purchased 412 S.W. Jackson St. “It’s another one of those old buildings that needs a little care,” he said. “I’m going to put a new front on it; it needed a roof. I’m either going to flip it, or I’m going to use it as storage until I flip it.”

Fox bought the building after he retired from construction about a year ago. “I was just getting kind of bored, so I bought a building,” he said, laughing a little, “and thought I would just kind of do it as I had time. But that isn’t the way I like to do things. I’ve al-

ready got the roof done, and I’m ready to put the front on it.”

The building was what Fox termed “garbled up” by past owners, who put a “little bitty garage door in it.” He plans to leave the building’s brick and the upper part of it looking the same, but he will modernize the bottom, including putting in a larger garage door.

“It would be a perfect place to put a loft,” he said. “It has 1,800 square feet upstairs that has tall ceilings. The Realtor already told me he’s got some people wanting to look at it.”

Other big downtown players are scooping up properties, including Cody Foster, who bought The Columbian building and across from it, the large space at 107 S.W. 6th Ave., and Jim Klausman, who snagged 823 S..W. Quincy.

For Schmanke, the investments are building momentum downtown. But even as the buildings sell, moving forward can be tough.

“I think the biggest challenge is that the cost to renovate some of these properties and deliver them to a tenant is at odds with the rent, and the market rent that tenants are willing to pay,” Schmanke

said. “So you have to be efficient in your remodeling and construction costs in order to deliver space that tenants can afford to rent.”

The downtown activity hasn’t yet affected rents significantly, although there may be properties that Schmanke called “outliers” charging more.

“But in many cases, the (high) rents don’t work,” he said. “I think the answer is somewhere in the middle. For most tenants, new construction or nearly new construction is not affordable. So I think we need to find a happy medium to efficiently remodel the existing spaces and deliver to tenants at a rate that they can afford.”

But the next step will be getting enough demand that rates will elevate to a point where major investments will be made, Schmanke said, and new space will be built.

“It’s a little bit of a struggle right now,” he said. “On a costper-square-foot basis, it’s difficult to make the numbers work.

I frankly bought this project (707 S.E. Quincy) at a pretty good rate and am able to spend the money necessary to deliver brand-new space at market rents.”

10A | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | The Topeka Capital-Journal

Businesses advocate for browsing with beverages Local governments can set rules for indoor or outdoor drinking zones

By Celia Llopis-Jepsen

celia.llopisjepsen@cjonline.com

When Norsemen Brewing — a fledgling taproom on N. Kansas Ave. — held a pre-opening sampling last December at NOTO Arts Center, it was in the midst of artists and artisans displaying and selling their work.

Afterward, Norsemen co-owner Jared Rudy says, a number of the artists said they had seen a healthy boost in sales that evening.

“It’s because people could walk around, have a beer in their hand and look at things,” Rudy says.

He and his co-owners are among proponents of alcohol-related legislation that was sought by Kansas cities including Topeka.

The proposal, which passed the House in April and the Senate in May, allows local governments to designate indoor or outdoor drinking zones.

The zones can be set for certain hours or days of the week, allowing patrons to stroll around with beverages they’ve purchased, as long as they don’t take the open containers out of the designated area.

A designated area could include sidewalks, streets, alleys, public and private property.

CHRIS NEAL/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

L.D. Lawrence, left, gets a beer from Norsemen Brewing Co. owner Jared Rudy.

Rudy and another co-owner, Adam Rosdahl, envisioned the added ambience for NOTO, which attracts big crowds to check out jewelry, paintings and antiques during monthly First Friday Art Walks. Couples could grab a drink together to enjoy while browsing the shops.

“Stores would probably sell more, too,” Rudy said. “I think the experience would definitely be heightened.”

Norsemen’s owners see the legislation regarding alcohol consumption zones as favoring the cohesive NOTO experience they believe in promoting.

“We don’t want to just corral all the customers in one place,” Rosdahl said. “We want to be a complete community that offers options to everyone — they can enjoy our product while they’re going and looking for something else they might want to purchase.”

The proposal passed the House by a vote of 114 to 11. It drew support from 35 of 40 senators.

The Kansas Licensed Beverage Association and Department of Revenue’s division for alcoholic beverage control had initially raised concerns and requests for clarifica-

tion regarding liability in cases of violations, but no one testified against the bill.

Sen. Laura Kelly, a Topeka Democrat who has served in the Legislature since 2005, has said alcohol consumption zones could benefit the capital city, with potential to increase its draw as an evening destination.

“I think it would start to move us up the food chain,” she said, “where not only people from Topeka would go and spend time downtown, but people from out of town would come in.”

In Kelly’s estimation, the bill gives municipalities “flexibility to decide for themselves what can work in their community.”

Vince Frye, CEO of Downtown Topeka Inc., agrees.

“It goes back to the quality of life issue that we’re starting to focus more and more on in our economic development plans for the future,” Frye said.

Helping restaurants and bars flourish could help entice more businesses to the downtown area, and people to live there, too, he said.

Doug Thomas, co-owner of the three Classic Bean cafes, is another fan of the legislation.

“I don’t see why not,” he said. “It’s done in other cities.”

In the past year, the Classic Bean on S. Kansas Ave. extended its hours into the evenings and began serving wine and beer.

The idea of allowing patrons to wander with their alcoholic beverages within a select zone holds promise, Thomas thinks.

“We just need people to come explore downtown,” he said.

$8.5 million Landmark Plaza project updates downtown high rise

By Morgan Chilson

morgan.chilson@cjonline.com

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION

Kimberly Gray, property manager, and Jason Lundgren, vice president of Young Management, which owns the Landmark Plaza, have been excited to see the complete renovation.

The new owners of the Landmark Plaza Apartments have poured $8.5 million into renovating the decades-old property, which has been part of the Topeka downtown landscape for decades.

Jason Lundgren, vice president of Young Management, the Kansas City-based, family-owned company that purchased Landmark in 2013, said the makeover included redoing “basically everything,” as significant work hadn’t been performed since the 1970s.

“The tenants have all brandnew units, brand-new elevators at the property, new furniture, new office spaces,” he said of the building at 1000 S. Kansas Ave. Lundgren said Young Management specializes in operating Housing and Urban Development properties, which offer low-income, affordable housing.

Renovating a property from top to bottom while tenants live there can be challenging.

That process involves a lot of coordination, said Kimberly Gray, Landmark property manager.

As the process started, Gray would hold an apartment open if a tenant moved out. She managed to have 20 empty apartments when they started.

“That way, I could relocate my tenants,” she said. “We had to do it in steps because of the plumbing. A couple of them had to move a couple of times, and some of them only had to move once. I had to move one lady off of the property, and we paid for that.”

But by April, everyone was back, and the countdown was on to complete the project in mid-May.

Gray said everyone was excited to see the 10-story building get a significant facelift, down to plumbing, heating and even new bathrooms.

Landmark Plaza, which has 83 apartments, typically has a wait list of people who would like to live there, Gray said.

“The need is great,” said Lundgren, who added that he’s pleased to offer updated units for the tenants. “For an affordable building — people have this stigma in their minds that the units are going to be awful.

These are really nice units on the inside. Everything’s brand new.”

The Topeka Capital-Journal | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | 11A

Downtown dreamer to downtown businesswoman

By Luke Ranker

luke.ranker@cjonline.com

THAD ALLTON PHOTOGRAPHS/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Maricel Wilson is opening Maricel’s Boutique (below) this month, focusing on handbags, necklaces, scarves and accessories.

When Maricel Wilson moved to the United States, she dreamed of working in a downtown.

As she drove along Topeka’s S. Kansas Ave., she imagined working in one of the offices in whatever role they had open. Maybe as a cleaner, or an assistant.

“In the Philippines, this place is like an exclusive. Only the big people can go to work here,” she said of the central business district. “I just want to be in this place. If I worked here, I’d feel like I was one of those people working in the exclusive place in the Philippines.”

Wilson now works downtown, in an office. She owns her own business, and for a time she owned two properties along S. Kansas Ave. For years, Wilson owned the building at 924 S. Kansas Ave., where she operated the clothing store Maricel’s Closet. When AIM Strategies, the developers behind the boutique Cyrus Hotel, started forming plans for the properties just north of Wilson’s small building last year, she faced a tough choice. Seth Wagoner, CEO and CFO of AIM Strategies, approached her about expanding the hotel project onto her 2,000-square-foot property, but Wilson wasn’t ready to move.

Her location, at the end of the S. Kansas Ave. streetscape revitalization and at a busy intersection, had been prime for business.

“I really enjoyed that area,” she said.

Luckily, she also owned the building at 729 S. Kansas. She tried operating two storefronts, but it was difficult to manage both, so she decided to sell. The decision was best for the community, she said.

“I like their idea for downtown,” she said. “I think we want the same things, to make it a great place for everyone.”

Vince Frye, president and CEO of Downtown Topeka Inc., said Wilson’s move showed a commitment to downtown.

“I think that was quite a significant gesture on her part,” he said This month, Wilson will open Maricel’s Boutique, a store similar to her original shop, but with a focus on handbags, necklaces, scarves and other accessories. She wanted to open the shop in March but delayed the project to focus on her children.

“I do a little here and there because I work for myself,” she said. “I need to be able to give my time to my kids.”

The boutique will be in the southern half of the building, as a payday loan service rents the other half. Wilson also has plans for the whole building.

The downstairs has room for a small consignment shop and the upstairs, after extensive renovations, could be a loft or office space. Ultimately, she wants to open a restaurant focused on breakfast and brunch, she said.

Definitive plans are far off, she said, but regardless she’s’ committed to downtown.

“Whatever I do, I’m going to be here,” she said.

12A | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | The Topeka Capital-Journal

Downtown mix creates eclectic atmosphere

By Samantha Foster

samantha.foster@cjonline.com

An old-fashioned barber pole spins in the window of a small shop on the north side of S.E. 8th St. in downtown Topeka.

The door stands open on a balmy day in May as owner Artemus Lewis and his brother, Randall Lee Lewis III, cut hair as their customers sit in metal chairs with padded red cushions.

Debonaire’s Barber Shop, 108 S.E. 8th, moved to its downtown location about three years ago from S.E. 6th and Carnahan, said Artemus Lewis. He chose the new site because it is centrally located, good for walk-in business and has a nearly 100-year history as a barber shop.

“I want to continue that tradition,” Lewis said.

He even found old black-and-white photographs and bits of memorabilia from previous barber shops when he moved in, he said.

The brothers — both licensed barbers and instructors who cut hair for men, women and children of all cultures — said they enjoy the diverse culture of downtown Topeka. They said they see different people walking past each day and meet lots of different people.

Their shop’s barber pole catches the eye of many passers-by. Lewis said older women, especially, get a kick out of seeing an old-time barber shop, pointing and giggling as they walk past, and young children run inside to look around.

Unique businesses such as Debonaire’s are helping to create an eclectic atmosphere in downtown Topeka.

Michelle Cuevas-Stubblefield, director of marketing and membership for Downtown Topeka Inc., said downtown has a growing mix of businesses and unique shops.

“Stroll through downtown and you will find a charming gift shop, a specialty spice company or longtime barbershop,” she said.

“It may seem unexpected, and that is the beauty of a downtown that is going through revitalization.”

Next door to Debonaire’s is the historic Thacher Building, 110 S.E. 8th, which houses Gizmo Pictures and Juli’s Coffee & Bistro. On the building’s garden level is Prairie Glass Studio, where owner Kymm Ledbetter sells fused-glass gifts, home decor and jewelry and offers classes.

The business marked its fifth anniversary at its downtown location in early June.

Ledbetter said she initially tried to find a place in the NOTO Arts District, but it didn’t work out.

“I think it was fate and listening to my instincts that brought me to downtown,” she said.

When she walked down the stairs and through the door at 110 S.E. 8th, she said, she imagined how perfect it would be for her studio.

Occasionally, Ledbetter said, customers ask her where she would want to go if she had to relocate. She doesn’t have an answer.

“I love being downtown because of the wonderful people I get to meet on a daily basis,” she said. Even with construction, parking logistics and the challenge of getting people to visit downtown, she added, it has been “the perfect spot for the studio to blossom and grow.”

SAMANTHA FOSTER/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Artemus Lewis, right, owner of Debonaire’s Barber Shop, and his brother, Randall Lee Lewis III, moved the business to 108 S.E. 8th in downtown Topeka from East Topeka about three years ago. The brothers said they enjoy the diverse culture of downtown, where they meet and see many different people each day.

Dillon House trail leads to founder’s portraits

By Morgan Chilson

morgan.chilson@cjonline.com

The Historic Dillon House opened its remodeled doors in 2015, and within a year, more than 10,000 people had visited the meeting and event space.

Built in 1911, the Dillon House today offers an elegant, modern space that also glories in the building’s history. Ross Freeman, president of Pioneer Group, which owns the house, has spent much of his career in historic preservation, and he has a finely honed appreciation for the stories and history that tell the tales of buildings.

That’s one reason he was excited to cap-

ture a new glimpse of the Dillon family that built the house.

“We’ve been able to find a number of photographs of Hiram Dillon, but we’ve never found anything about Susie (his wife),” Freeman said of the original family. “Then we tracked down portraits in a warehouse in Phoenix, and purchased them.”

The team at Dillon House set out to find Susie Dillon’s portrait.

“We talked to a large number of the right people and just kept narrowing it down until we finally found them,” Freeman said.

“It so happened there was kind of a treasure trove of portraits of the Dillon family ancestors and nursemaids and all kinds of

people associated with the Dillons.”

Freeman said the artist who painted the 3-foot by 20-inch oval paintings appears to be Elizabeth Fager, but they hit a dead end at tracking her down. He called Beth Fager, a well-known community leader, but she didn’t know the name.

“The southern portion of the west wing was the music room, and with Susie being a very accomplished musician, we hung her portrait over the fireplace mantle in that room,” Freeman said. “Hiram looked like he always enjoyed a good dinner, and the northern portion of the west wing was the dining room, so we hung his portrait over the mantle in the dining room.”

SUBMITTED

When Dillon House owner Ross Freeman found a portrait of Susie Dillon, who along with her husband, Hiram Dillon, built the house, he was excited to acquire the piece of history to display in the house.

The Topeka Capital-Journal | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | 13A

THAD ALLTON/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL (ABOVE), SUBMITTED (BELOW)

Kurt Young, executive director of the Topeka Lodging Association, has worked with his group to support development of a plaza (rendering below) at the northeast corner of 7th and S. Kansas Avenue.

Creating a downtown plaza

With lodging group’s help, plans move forward for ‘outdoor room’

By Morgan Chilson

morgan.chilson@cjonline.com

A multimillion-dollar downtown plaza planned for the capital city is supported by the Topeka Lodging Association, a quiet group that isn’t regularly in the middle of city planning topics.

But Kurt Young, executive director of the organization that represents local hotel and motel owners, said the plaza’s creation will substantially impact his industry. He was first introduced to the idea of a plaza that would offer entertainment options downtown when serving on the Visit Topeka board and consultant Roger Brooks recommended one be built.

“When it comes to booking large-scale conventions and meetings in Topeka or any place, the meeting planner that you’re dealing with for that convention, whether it’s 300 guests or 1,000 guests, they always want to know what is there for our people to do in your fair city after 5 o’clock in the evening,” he said. “For us, it’s been difficult.”

Young said TLA members stepped up strongly to support plaza development efforts by approaching the transient guest tax committee and asking them to renew an expiring 1-percent guest tax and dedicate all or a portion of those funds to build the plaza. That puts $3.4 million toward building the plaza.

The key to the plaza’s success is being well programmed, he added.

“This is not just green space downtown,” Young said. “I have fought that battle even with some leaders in the community. They don’t understand that this is more than just a park downtown.

This is a venue.”

Brooks gave the city statistics saying traffic to Topeka will triple as a result of a downtown plaza, he said, adding that it needs to be programmed with a minimum of 250 event days per year. To adequately handle scheduling, it will cost the city about $500,000 per year, and Young said the TLA stepped in on that aspect, too.

The group worked to form a Tourism Business Improvement

District, in which Topeka hoteliers voluntarily assess themselves $1 per sold room and the resulting funds would support plaza programming. Approval for the district is in process.

“Transient guest tax money is not local tax money,” he said. “So far, we have not asked for one dime of taxpayer money on this project.”

The plaza committee, on which Young serves, did a survey asking what people would like to see included in the downtown

plaza. The plaza group has been working to develop an operation plan before designing the plaza, and part of their work has been contacting other communities to see how their plazas have benefited them.

“I can tell you in Rapid City, (Iowa), they were running in their downtown core area a little over 50-percent occupancy in their retail space,” Young said.

“They’re now 100-percent occupied and have a waiting list.

Their per-square-foot cost of

leasable floor space has tripled.

It’s phenomenal what it’s done for Rapid City, and we hope to do the same thing here.”

Chris Zimmerman, Smart Growth America’s vice president for economic development and director of the Governors’ Institute on Community Design, said downtown plazas are important in revitalization.

“In the 21st century, what we’re finding is that the key strategy for economic development is really place making,” he said, adding that can mean walkable neighborhoods, unique character and creating places people want to be.

Certain elements are important to downtown design, Zimmerman said.

Create an outdoor room, he advised, because what’s around the plaza is important.

“It has that sense of openness but it has that sense of enclosure, too,” he said. “That can be even more important than size. I want it bounded. The edges are really important. A lot of plazas don’t work because the edges die.”

Couple ready to invest in city’s up-and-coming district

By Luke Ranker

luke.ranker@cjonline.com

Nick and Terry Xidis have devoted a lot of energy to Hazel Hill Chocolate, the candy shop that has become a fixture of downtown Topeka, and now the couple is ready to invest even more in the city’s upand-coming district.

Since August 2016, the couple has lived in the refitted office above the chocolate shop at 724 S. Kansas Ave., but by the end of this year, they hope to be moving across the hall to a completely renovated threebedroom apartment above H&R Block at 726 S. Kansas Ave. “We love it down here,” Nick Xidis said recently while touring the space. “We want to be where the action is.”

The Xidises left a multi-bedroom home on five acres off 53rd Street west of Wanamaker Road for their downtown space, which is about 1,800 square feet. Now that their children have left home, downsizing felt right, he said, and the lifestyle change has been “great.”

“We don’t have to mow or shovel snow, and plus we can sit up here and watch what’s going on on the avenue,” Xidis said while looking out the front windows of the apartment. “Now that during the summer there’s an event almost every weekend, it’s really kind of cool to just be able to open windows and take in the music or whatever or pull up your chair and look out on the avenue. It’s not a bad thing.”

Behind him, a pile of old lumber and a stack of nearly century-old ledgers collect dust. When that’s cleaned up, Xidis hopes the food floors can be restored, along with

CHRIS NEAL/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL (ABOVE), FILE PHOTOGRAPH/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL (RIGHT)

Nick and Terry Xidis, of Hazel Hill Chocolate, live downtown and “want to be where the action is.” red brick on the north wall and limestone on the south wall.

That south wall was formerly the exterior wall of 728 S. Kansas, complete with the painted billboards commonly seen on buildings around the turn of the 19th century. Faded white letters advertise “Beeman’s Pepsin Chewing Gum” on a black background.

The nostalgic sign will be the backdrop

to a living room that will open directly into a kitchen area, which will be outfitted with a stone countertop that brings the brick and limestone together.

A hallway will run along the north wall that opens first to a master bedroom, then a den and a guest bedroom. In the rear, Xidis wants a small darkroom next to the utility closet. Throughout, vaulted ceilings of about 15 feet will show off the

buildings timber frame. Altogether, Xidis said the project will be a $100,000 to $150,000 investment.

When the couple moves, the space above Hazel Hill will be left open, but Xidis said they haven’t made a decision on what to do with it. The space could easily be an office or an apartment.

Downsizing is just one part of the couple’s move downtown. Xidis said the remodeled streetscape of Kansas Avenue and talk of year-round events in the downtown have built confidence the area is in the midst of a renaissance.

Business is up at Hazel Hill since the Kansas Avenue street project finished.

Xidis said the store has seen a more than 20-percent increase in sales between 2015 and 2016.

That means the chocolatier is expanding, but not with a new storefront. Xidis said he’s working with at least three wholesalers to sell candies in stores outside Topeka, including one in Stockton in northwestern Kansas.

The store is also staying open an hour later, until 8 p.m., because Xidis said more people are walking around Kansas Avenue in the evening.

14A | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | The Topeka Capital-Journal

Lofts crop up along Kansas Avenue

Interest keen in adding upper-floor apartments to downtown buildings

By Justin Wingerter

justin.wingerter@cjonline.com

As he pulls opens a thick door leading to steep steps at 718 S. Kansas Ave., Randy Clayton warns, “It might smell a little like smoke.”

At the top of the stairs, dust particles float as the midday sun lights up a dark hallway. Green and gray walls are missing plaster. Stacks of unused wood rest under unfinished ceilings.

Randy and his wife, Debra, are restoring the second and third floor of this 19th-century building into three loft apartments.

“Everyone who has been involved in downtown has been interested in building lofts,” Debra Clayton said. “That’s what so many of these buildings were.

The first floor was a business and the upper floors were loft apartments.”

The Claytons own Clayton Financial Services next door. By the time of the tour on a warm May day, they had spent six months working with state and federal agencies that ensure historic buildings maintain their integrity.

“It just took a long time,” Debra Clayton said. “Some of our original ideas didn’t pass city (code), and we discovered the historic preservation people take quite awhile making their decisions.”

By October, construction will be finished and design work will begin. Sometime after that, their first tenant will move in.

Michelle Stubblefield, in many ways, is an ideal tenant. She is a marketing director at Downtown Topeka Inc., which promotes Kansas Avenue as a destination, and is a recent empty-nester.

“I like the opportunity of less space, less clutter,” she said. “I easily can go down the street and visit with friends, go to a restaurant. There are events down here that you can easily go to and take part in and not have to get in your car.”

Stubblefield and her husband will move to a 1,429-square-foot loft, by far the largest of the three being built by the Claytons. Another second-floor loft

THAD ALLTON/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Michelle Stubblefield looks through the second-floor window of her future loft at 718 S. Kansas Ave.

‘‘

It just took a long time. Some of our original ideas didn’t pass city (code), and we discovered the historic preservation people take quite awhile making their decisions.”

DEBRA CLAYTON

restoring space into loft apartments

Clayton will be 680 square feet. Above them, the third floor will house a 722-square-foot loft.

“It’s exciting. It’s going to be a big change, but I think it’s a change my husband and I are very interested in,” she said.

Stubblefield and her husband are not alone. Loft apartments along Kansas Avenue often have tenants before construction is complete. As the street’s popularity grows, so too does interest in

living along it.

A few doors south, Nick Xidis owns Hazel Hill Chocolate. He lives above his shop and owns unoccupied property above an H&R Block next to Hazel Hill, rooms he once intended to turn into office space.

That plan changed when he caught wind of the interest in downtown lofts.

Now, he’s applying for permits in hopes of creating housing at 726 S. Kansas Ave. “It seems like there’s plenty of inter-

est and demand,” he said.

Lofts provide access to downtown without skimping on space, placing tenants in the city’s hub. In large cities, they often appeal to young professionals. In the case of Topeka, they also appeal to slightly older residents like Stubblefield.

“I think we’re finding it to be pretty much a national trend. Millennials are doing it, people my age are doing it,” she said.

If approved, historic tax credits will cover nearly half the cost of renovating the Claytons’ space into lofts. The couple won’t know whether they received the credits until construction is done.

Due to noise on Kansas Avenue, the bedrooms will be toward the back. Living and dining rooms will look out over the avenue, an increasingly popular lifestyle for an increasingly popular street.

“Everybody I’ve talked to is super excited for this,” Stubblefield said.

The Topeka Capital-Journal | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | 15A

16A | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | The Topeka Capital-Journal

The Topeka Capital-Journal | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | 1B

D O W N T O W N :

E X P A N D I N G

T H E

C O R E

JAYHAWK THEATRE S E C T I O N

2

O F

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THAD ALLTON/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

John Holecek, executive director of Jayhawk State Theatre of Kansas, says a capital campaign to raise an estimated $12 million to restore the theater will be launched in early fall.

Holecek knows what it takes to raise money to bring back a historic theater; he brought in $10.5 million to help restore the McPherson Opera House.

NEW RESTORATION EFFORTS TAKE FLIGHT

By Jan Biles

HOW TO DONATE

jan.biles@cjonline.com

Businessman E.H. Crosby was looking toward the future 90 years ago when he invested his money into building the Jayhawk Theatre in downtown Topeka.

The luxurious theater was part of Crosby’s vision for a hotel-theater-shopping arcade complex that would re-energize the city, create jobs, attract visitors and persuade local shoppers to spend their dollars at downtown retailers rather than travel out of town to buy clothing, appliances and other necessities.

It’s a vision embraced today by Jeff Carson and John Holecek, who are leading the charge to restore the Jayhawk Theatre to its former grandeur, while adding state-ofthe-art technology and modern amenities that will stake its claim as the centerpiece of the downtown revitalization effort.

The estimated cost of the restoration is $12 million.

“It’s been proven over and over that returning a downtown historic theater to community use is the greatest driver of downtown revitalization,” said Holecek, executive director of Jayhawk State Theatre of Kansas. “Downtown revitalization (in Topeka) is doomed if the Jayhawk Theatre isn’t restored.”

In addition to a first-rate film house and live performance hall, Holecek and Carson, president of the Jayhawk State Theatre of Kansas board and co-founder of Gizmo Pictures, believe a rejuvenated Jayhawk can function as a venue for community and business events, as well as help create an atmosphere attractive to young people.

“We want to celebrate the history,” Carson said, “but we need young people to come out and feel a cultural comfort … and they don’t have that today.”

The League of Historic American Theatres has calculated the economic impact of a downtown historic theater in a city the

For information about how to donate toward the restoration of the Jayhawk Theatre: n Contact John Holecek, executive director, at (316) 648-5010 or john. holecek@allgoodworks.com. n Email jayhawktheatreks.gmail.com. n Visit the theater’s website at jayhawktheatre.org

THAD ALLTON/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Jeff Carson, president of the Jayhawk State Theatre of Kansas board and co-founder of Gizmo Pictures, looks through some of the posters and photographs reflecting the Jayhawk Theatre’s history. The theater opened in August 1926 and closed its doors in May 1976. size of Topeka as creating 65 full-time jobs, increasing household income by $1.4 million annually and boosting new yearly expenditures by $1.9 million.

Peeling paint and passion

When Carson walks through the Jayhawk Theatre, 720 S.W. Jackson St., he doesn’t see spalling paint on the walls, water damage to the ceiling or an open cavern once filled with rows of seats.

He sees the potential for returning the theater to public use, and an urgency to move forward on restoration plans while

people are rallying the downtown’s revitalization and before the theater deteriorates further.

“We’re riding a wave of renaissance in downtown,” Carson said. “If we don’t do it now, it probably can’t be done. People may not have the same amount of enthusiasm in the future.”

Billed as “Topeka’s first deluxe motion picture palace,” the Jayhawk opened its doors Aug. 16, 1926. People stood in line to be the first to sit in its plush seats, see the twinkling “stars” created by the dome lighting, enjoy the “refrigerated air” cool-

ing the theater, and clap for the silent films and vaudeville acts on its stage.

Fifty years later, the Jayhawk closed, and the theater fell into disrepair. Earlier attempts to restore the theater stalled.

“It just got neglected for a long time,” Carson said.

In December, the board of Jayhawk State Theatre of Kansas, the nonprofit organization dedicated to the restoration of the theater, agreed to hire Vance Kelley, who leads TreanorHL’s Preservation Studio, as the project’s architect and Eby Construction Company, of Wichita, as general contractor. Eby Construction president Mike Grier has been involved in a number of theater restorations in Kansas.

Construction plans and architectural drawings are in development, but Carson said the vision for the theater generally includes: n A main entrance off S.W. Jackson St., with a marquee, ticket box, concession stand/bar, restrooms, administration offices and exit to the Jayhawk Walk, which leads to the eight doors opening into the auditorium. The area is now used as a gallery. n Removal of the east wall in the galRESTORATION continues on 10B

Meet the people working to bring the Jayhawk Theatre back to life Vance Kelley

Mike Grier

Jeff Carson

John Holecek

Kelley, who leads TreanorHL’s Historic Preservation Studio, has managed or reviewed every preservation project undertaken by the firm.

He believes in the viability of historic and older structures and Kelley their importance to a community. Among the historic projects with which he’s been involved are the Dillon House, Great Overland Station, Kansas Capitol and Jackson Street Lofts.

As president of Eby Construction Company of Wichita and a member of the Kansas Preservation Alliance, Grier places an emphasis on restorat ion .

Among his recent projects are the McPherson Grier Opera House, Burford Theatre in Arkansas City, Colonial Fox Theatre in Pittsburg, Brown Grand Theatre in Concordia and the Historic Fox Theatre in Hutchinson.

Carson, co-founder of Gizmo Pictures, is interested in preser vation and the revitalization of downtown Topeka.

He has served on the Shawnee County Historical Society Carson board, Topeka Landmarks Commission and Downtown Topeka Inc. board. In 2010, Carson and business partner Greg Ready purchased and restored the 1888 Thacher building on S.E. 8th Ave.

Before being tapped for the Jayhawk Theatre project, Holecek worked 14 years at the McPherson Opera House.

Serving first as its director of development, he raised $10.5 Holecek million toward an $8.5-million project to renovate and restore the McPherson Opera House. As its executive director, he managed the opera house, including the programming for six successful seasons.

Architect

Contractor

President of the Jayhawk State Theatre of Kansas board

Executive director of Jayhawk State Theatre of Kansas

Assisting with the project are the Jayhawk State Theatre of Kansas board of directors. In addition to Carson, other volunteer board members are: n Nancy Shaughnessy, board vice president, consultant at Shaughnessy & Associates. n Mark Burenheide, board treasurer, trust officer at Capital City Bank. n Ben Coates, board secretary, owner/president of Peoples Benefit Group. n Ashley Bahm, of Bahm Demolition Inc. n Amber Bonnett, digital branch librarian/bibliotechnician at Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library.

LIFE continues on 9B

2B | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | The Topeka Capital-Journal

Jayhawk Theatre: From grandeur to closing to rebirth

By Jan Biles

jan.biles@cjonline.com

It’s been 90 years since the Jayhawk Theatre first turned on its stage lights and movie projector. Here’s a chronological look at the theater’s history.

Aug. 11, 1925: The beginning

Topeka businessman E.H. Crosby announced on Aug. 11, 1925, his plans for a new entertainment complex that would include a hotel, theater and arcade at the corner of S.W. 7th Ave. and S.W. Jackson St. Crosby was co-founder of the Crosby Bros. department store.

Work immediately began on the complex, which ended up costing $1.25 million, of which about $400,000 was spent on constructing the Jayhawk Theatre.

The 1,500-seat theater was designed by Carl and Robert Boller, of Kansas City, who were so pleased with the outcome they used it as a model for other theaters.

Thomas W. Williamson, who designed Topeka High School and other capital city buildings, was the supervising architect.

TOPEKA CAPITAL-JOURNAL/DEC. 31, 1994

From left, Robert Slemmons, Charles McAtee, Jim Parrish and David Porterfield confer in late December 1994 before the formal ceremony that transferred ownership of the Jayhawk Theatre to Historic Topeka Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to the theater’s restoration.

Aug. 16, 1926: Doors open

The Jayhawk Theatre opened its doors on Aug. 16, 1926, with nearly 6,000 people coming to view the ornate theater and see its first show, which was presented five times that day. The show featured live organ and symphony music, newsreels, a cartoon, a song-and-dance number and “Mantrap,” a movie starring Clara Bow. Patrons marveled at the theater’s $25,000 Kilgen organ, which had the volume of a 30-piece symphony and could duplicate the sound of several instruments, including the trumpet, snare drum and xylophone; Jayhawk Walk, an arcade displaying the latest fashions and products in its large windows; “refrigerated air” created by its $50,000 refrigeration, heating and ventilating system; and a mural depicting the goddess of agriculture by Chicago artist William Peaco.

Another eyebrow-rising highlight was the lighted ceiling dome, which could change color — from bright daylight to sunset to moonlight night and then rosy dawn. The dome was pierced with tiny holes to create twinkling stars when nighttime effects were used.

“Charles ‘Stag’ Windburn, master electrician of the Jayhawk, believes he could make a chicken go to bed or a rooster crow, depending upon whether he turns on the twilight or the dawn,” the Topeka Daily Capital reported.

The balcony was supported by 78-footlong steel girders, and the theater’s walls

TOPEKA CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Shirley Grant Bornscheuer, of Carbondale, was looking through the sheets and pillowcases being offered at a public sale several years ago at the old Holiday Inn on S. Topeka Blvd. One the items she spied — and bought — was a napkin from The Jayhawk Hotel. The napkin shows a few small stains, but otherwise is in good shape. were 17 to 21 inches thick. Dressing rooms were underneath the stage, and a projection booth sat above the balcony. The steel-andconcrete structure had two exits with box offices — one on S.W. 7th Ave., the other on S.W. Jackson St.

1927-30s: Silents to talkies

In its early days, the Jayhawk projected silent movies onto its silver screen and booked vaudeville acts and local performers to provide entertainment before or

TOPEKA CAPITAL-JOURNAL/APRIL 27, 1990

Don Chubb, president of Historic Topeka Inc., holds a news conference on April 26, 1990, inside the closed Jayhawk Theatre to introduce Killis Almond Jr., a Texas architect who later spoke about the renovation of the theater. Historic Topeka Inc. led efforts to restore the theater at that time. between the films. Fashion shows, beauty pageants and amateur contests also were mainstays.

The Jayhawk employed its own organist and small symphony orchestra.

“In the day of the silent picture, the larger theaters had regular orchestras who played throughout the performances.

The music was quite important, even as it is today, to bring out the proper mood

The Topeka Capital-Journal | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | 3B

1990s-2016: Restoration efforts

THAD ALLTON/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

The $50,000 refrigeration, heating and ventilating system for the Jayhawk Theatre took three months to install in 1926. The refrigeration unit is still in the basement of the theater. for the scene at hand. … Maintaining an orchestra, even a small one, was an expensive overhead and one that was eliminated just as soon as music could be recorded and reproduced in full fidelity,” wrote James D. Wallace, a Topekan who saw hundreds of movies at local theaters during the 1930s.

Talking pictures were introduced at the Jayhawk on April 15, 1929, with the showing of “The Jazz Singer,” a 1927 feature-length film starring Al Jolson. The talkies and the transfer of its stars from stage to screen in the 1930s ended the days of vaudeville circuit touring.

1940s: Wartime effects

Topeka historian Doug Wallace said two types of movies ruled during the 1940s — patriotic films and musicals. As war spread across the globe, newsreels became important, allowing people to watch actual events a few days after they happened.

The Jayhawk favored westerns and adventures, while musicals and epics were booked at its competitors, the Grand and Orpheum theaters.

After World War II, the Jayhawk — and movie theaters across the nation — took a hit when televisions became a common home appliance.

“I can’t believe that television was the sole contributing factor in our declining interest in the theater, although there can be little doubt that it is much simpler just to sit at home and let the movie come to you,” wrote J.D. Wallace. “Nonetheless, a 21-inch or 24-inch screen can’t quite take the place of the fascinating huge screen with its stereophonic sound which almost makes one a part of the action.”

1950-76: Declining audiences

The Jayhawk installed a Cinemascope

JAN BILES/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Topeka resident Patricia Kane, former Jayhawk State Theatre of Kansas Inc. board member, said the Jayhawk needs to be restored, in part, because it is the only remaining movie theater in downtown Topeka. screen in 1953 so it could display widescreen and 3D movies. But even the new technology couldn’t stave off the growing popularity of drive-in theaters in the late 1950s and early 1960s.

By the 1960s, the Jayhawk was no longer a luxurious movie palace. For several months in 1963, the theater was closed when there was a shortage of films.

“What really becomes the kicker is when (they started) developing mega-shopping centers and the indoor malls,” Doug Wallace said.

Gage 4 Theatres, a four-screen complex at 4121 S.W. Huntoon, opened on Oct. 17, 1969, siphoning off moviegoers from downtown Topeka.

In 1974, the Jayhawk was listed in the National Register of Historic Places, but even that didn’t boost ticket sales. The theater started showing R- and X-rated movies in an attempt to make a profit.

In May 1976, the Jayhawk closed, and the vacated building lay dormant until the 1990s.

The Jayhawk Theatre was nearly razed in 1992, when developer Howard Paul planned to demolish the theater and replace it with a four-story parking garage. Preservationists rallied and blocked the demolition.

In early 1993, the Rev. Richard Taylor launched a drive to “save the Jayhawk,” and the state Senate passed a resolution designating the Jayhawk as the “State Theater of Kansas.”

Jim Parrish, president and CEO of Parrish Hotels, said he purchased the Crosby Brothers Department Store property, which included the theater, in January 1994.

“Upon acquisition, we began talking to Rev. Taylor,” Parrish said.

In December 1994, Parrish and his wife, Nancy, donated the theater to Historic Jayhawk Theatre Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to the theater’s preservation. Fundraising efforts to restore the Jayhawk began, and its future use was debated.

Taylor wanted to construct the theater’s future around “In His Steps,” a play adapted from the best-selling book by the Rev. Charles Sheldon, a Topeka minister who initiated the “What Would Jesus Do” movement.

Taylor believed the stage production could be as successful as “The Shepherd of the Hills,” an outdoor drama in Branson, Mo., based on a novel by Christian minister Harold Bell Wright.

Other supporters had a different vision for the theater, and when Taylor realized those plans included serving alcohol, he resigned from the nonprofit’s board of directors.

Restoration and fundraising efforts continued, although slowly. The roof of the theater was repaired, and temporary electricity and air conditioning were installed using city funds.

The gallery was updated, and a temporary remodeling of the candy nook was completed.

Present day: Renewed efforts

Taking advantage of the energy created by the revitalization of downtown Topeka, a renewed push to restore the Jayhawk to a movie and live entertainment venue has begun.

A capital campaign to raise an estimated $12 million is expected to be launched in early fall. Much of the cost likely will be covered by historic tax credits, grants and corporate and individual donations.

“It’s been not just a fight to preserve the theater, but to deter it from further deterioration. … All you need to do is get people inside to see what it could be,” Parrish said. “To see the progress happening now is really gratifying.”

Patricia Kane, former Jayhawk State Theatre of Kansas board member, said the Jayhawk is the only movie theater left standing in downtown Topeka.

“I want to see it preserved as part of our history,” Kane said. “We have lost so many beautiful buildings in this city.”

TRIVIA TWELVE THINGS YOU MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT THE JAYHAWK THEATRE:

1

In Capone’s footsteps. An 18-year-old Fort Riley soldier was arrested Nov. 10, 1975, minutes after he robbed a cashier at the Jayhawk Theatre of $11. Gerald W. Olson, of Portland, Maine, approached the cashier at 8 p.m., told her he had a gun pointed at her from under a coat on his arm and then demanded money. After sticking the money in a pocket, he told the clerk to wait 10 seconds before calling police and walked out of the building. When police officers apprehended Olson about 10 minutes later, he was unarmed.

The following April, Olson pleaded guilty to robbery. Shawnee County District Attorney Gene Olander said the soldier robbed the theater after watching a film about gangster Al Capone. “That guy got away with millions, and I get caught,” Olson reportedly said when he was arrested.

2

Three dimensions, circa 1958.

When “The Fly,” a horror movie starring Vincent Price, was shown at the Jayhawk in July 1958, paper glasses were handed out so the audience could see the merging of the professor and the fly in 3D. The popular movie, which had a budget of less than $500,000, grossed $3 million in the United States.

3

For the homemakers: During the Depression, the Jayhawk kicked off a weekly promotion called Housewife Holiday. Women who didn’t work outside the home could go to a special show that included a movie; presentations by merchants about the latest models of washing machines or other products; fashion shows; musical entertainment; and giveaways of coupons, flowers or other items.

TRIVIA continues on 5B

4B | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | The Topeka Capital-Journal

RESTORING THE JAYHAWK

Greg Marsters, a plastering artisan and conservator based in Boise, Idaho, became familiar with the Jayhawk Theatre when he was in Topeka to help with renovations of the Kansas Capitol.

He’d walk past the theater on his way to the Statehouse, hoping someday it would be restored, too.

In 1986, Marsters established Custom Plaster, a company that specializes in historic restoration and conservation of flat and ornamental plaster and decorative paint. He recently studied photographs of the interior of the Jayhawk Theatre, providing descriptions of some of its features and what work needs to be done to restore them.

— JAN BILES

Leaf trim of molding

SUBMITTED

A classic acanthus leaf motif repeats throughout the building’s ornamentation. The textured field between the leaves is designed to add depth to the relief sculpture.

FILE PHOTO/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Goddess of agriculture mural

The mural, painted on canvas by Chicago artist William Peaco, is a focal point in the theater’s decor.

It seems to be in very good condition and appears to only need a conservation cleaning and a new protective coating. Its main character is Demeter, the Greek goddess of harvest and agriculture, who according to Greek mythology presided over grain and the fertility of the Earth. From her perch above the stage, she looks out over the entire audience.

FILE PHOTO/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Water damage in balcony FILE PHOTO/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

SUBMITTED

Cherub trim of molding

Cherubs are arranged in a repeating pattern on the ornamental plaster molding that surrounds the upper dome on the auditorium’s ceiling.

Stage

Second level

The second level of the Jayhawk shows considerable plaster damage from water intrusion. The coffered beams separating the barrel-vaulted ceiling into panels created a greater sense of space and added acoustical dampening.

Water damage is shown around the box and the lower section of the pilasters, or rectangular columns, flanking the exit. These conditions are not uncommon in an unrestored theater of this age.

Plaster in auditorium

SUBMITTED

The unique plaster ornamentation at the top of the proscenium depicts a Jayhawk-and-sunflower motif in an alternating pattern. The decoration is unique to this Kansas theater. Perhaps that’s one reason the Kansas Legislature designated the Jayhawk as the “State Theatre of Kansas” in 1993.

FILE PHOTO/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Pipe organ encasement

FILE PHOTO/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Dome lighting trim

The polychrome colors on this ornamental plaster light ring aren’t part of the original paint scheme. A color analysis will reveal the original paint scheme so it can be replicated during the restoration.

Water damage can be seen on the upper part of a balcony wall. Also shown are part of the domed auditorium ceiling, upper left; the front of the balcony, lower left; and the arched beam at the soffit in front of the proscenium, upper right. Carl and Robert Boller went on to use all of these features in more than 300 theaters they designed. On the upper ceiling is a latticed grille with a diffuser in its corner. The grille was the air return for the theater’s heating and airconditioning system.

SUBMITTED

In this close-up photograph of water damage in the auditorium, the white powdery substance created through efflorescence can be seen. During the restoration process, the efflorescence will be carefully removed and the plaster seamlessly patched to blend with the original work that is still intact. When all of the work is completed, the building will appear as it did when it was new.

Exit sign

SUBMITTED

The pediment above the exit at either side of the orchestra area shows the overpaint of successive decorative campaigns. Renovation will leave the space renewed and back to its original decorative finishes — a richer and more subtle collection of colors highlighted with gold metallic paint and leaf.

The Topeka Capital-Journal | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | 5B TRIVIA continued from 3B “They got all of that for the price for a movie ticket,” Topeka historian Don Chubb said. “It got housewives talking about the Jayhawk, so families went back more often.”

4

FILE PHOTO/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Pianist-composer Duke Ellington was the bandleader of a jazz orchestra from 1923 until his death in 1974.

FILE PHOTO/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Chico Marx, far left, was part of the Marx Brothers comedy act, but he also was an accomplished pianist.

Variety of acts performed on Jayhawk stage

By Jan Biles

jan.biles@cjonline.com

The Jayhawk is remembered most as a movie house, but the theater also showcased live performances and unique events, from jazz concerts to weddings to Siamese twins’ performances.

Popular entertainers

n Cab Calloway — billed as “the major general of jumping jive” — brought his Cotton Club Orchestra and signature “Hi-DeHo!” to the Jayhawk stage on May 1, 1945. n Duke Ellington — known as “Harlem’s aristocrat of jazz” — and his orchestra filled the Jayhawk stage in the early 1940s for a show the theater described as “the season’s biggest stage attraction.” His all-star revue, which included Ivie Anderson, the “California song bird,” performed five shows on a single day. The Topeka show may have been one of the last performances by Anderson, who left the band in 1942 because of worsening asthma. n Janice Gutzwiller, 91, of Topeka, recalls watching Chico Marx play the piano on the Jayhawk stage during the break between a double feature. He was part of the Marx Brothers comedy act, with siblings Groucho, Harpo, Zeppo and Gummo, which spanned vaudeville, Broadway and motion pictures. Chico was an accomplished pianist with a unique finger-pecking style. In the 1940s, he led the Chico Marx Orchestra, with a young Mel Torme as vocalist. n Grammy Award-nominated jazz singer Marilyn Maye grew up in Topeka and started singing as a child in local amateur contests during the Depression. She appeared every Saturday morning for two years at the Jayhawk, ending every show with “God Bless America.” RCA signed Maye, now 89, to a recording contract. She became a favorite of

late-night television host Johnny Carson and appeared as a guest on his show 76 times. n The Dynamic Superiors, a group of five young black performers, were featured at the “Midnight Special” on April 11, 1975, at the Jayhawk. The singers had performed a year earlier at Garfield Park. In the interim, they signed a contract with Motown and released the single, “Shoe Shoe Shine,” which sold more than 700,000 records.

Intriguing appearances

n Daisy and Violet Hilton, known as the “San Antonio Siamese Twins,” were members of a company of entertainers who performed in January 1929 at the Jayhawk. The sisters, high school graduates who sang, danced and played musical instruments, were one of the highest-paid vaudeville acts at the time. The Hiltons, who were joined at their hips and buttocks, performed two days at the Jayhawk, presenting four shows each day. n A powwow, featuring a cast of 20 Indians and the Haskell Indian Orchestra, drew a crowd to the Jayhawk in early April 1927.

The show was billed as the theater’s “most elaborate presentation prologue.” The powwow was followed by the showing of “The Flaming Frontier,” an epic film about the Old West that culminates in Custer’s Last Stand. n Maude Butler’s Piano Band — seven Steinway grand pianos being played at the same time — made quite an impression on Feb. 27, 1927. The pianos were arranged at different heights on the Jayhawk stage so all the players, dressed in evening attire, could be seen by the audience. The show was so popular that its three-day booking was extended to a week.

Tying the knot

n Jayhawk staff came up with a promotional gimmick in April 1928 — weddings on its stage, partially paid for by the theater.

Ruby and Ernie Cramer, 20 and 19 respectively, decided to take the Jayhawk up on its offer, and had a day to get their attire together for the 9 p.m. ceremony. A minister conducted the ceremony, in front of about 1,200 witnesses in the audience.

The Jayhawk paid the Cramers $75. The Topeka couple also received a number of gifts: a wedding ring from the Santa Fe Watch Co.; a savings account with $10 at a local bank; a toaster from the Ed Marling Store; an end table from a furniture store; a pound of bacon from a packing company; and a $250 down payment on a bungalow from a real estate firm.

Another couple was married on the stage at 7:30 p.m.

Appealing to women

n The Crosby Bros. department store capitalized on its proximity to the Jayhawk by presenting fashion shows on its stage.

The Spring Fashion Festival, advertised as “a gorgeous procession of spring styles displayed by Ivan D. Martin’s New York mannequins,” was presented at 1, 3, 7 and 9 p.m.

May 27, 1927, as part of an entertainment package that included a newsreel, organ and orchestra performances and “Let It Rain,” a movie starring Douglas MacLean. Models were called “mannequins” in the 1920s.

In March 1929, Crosby Bros. staged “Fancies of Spring,” featuring the latest dresses and handbags, singers and dancers. n Fifty contestants between the ages of 18 and 28 lined up on the Jayhawk stage to face the judges during the Miss America Beauty Show in August 1939. The contestants were vying to be Miss Topeka, with the ultimate goal of competing in the Miss America contest at Atlantic City, N.J. It was the third Miss America show at the theater.

Sources: The Topeka Capital-Journal archives; Topeka Day to Day

Who’s your caddy? The Jayhawk stage wasn’t a place only for professional performers.

Its lights fell on hundreds of people competing in its contests. While most of the competitions were among young TRIVIA people and involved the performing arts, others seemed rather random. Longtime Topeka resident Larry Breuninger remembers a contest for favorite caddy: “Clyde Streeter won. He got new golf clubs.”

5

Rooftop radio. In 1927, Arthur Capper, a U.S. senator and owner of the Topeka Daily Capital, purchased WIBW radio and entered into an agreement with the management of Jayhawk Theatre to broadcast live from its stage. The May 8, 1927, program featured former opera star Marie Rossini, Bob Shreffler’s Grand Theater Orchestra, a talk by Mayor W.O. Rigby, The Raven Trio and accordionist Ruth Nelson.

The station was so popular that after a twoweek trial period on the Jayhawk stage it was moved to the roof of the Jayhawk Hotel, where it began broadcasting on a regular schedule.

6

1930s movie buff. Topeka resident James D. Wallace — father of Topeka historian Doug Wallace — loved movies, and during a period of his life from about 1930 to mid-1938, he documented the films he saw in a 39-cent red spiral notebook. During that nearly eight-year span, Wallace went to 194 movies at the Jayhawk Theatre, plus 116 at the Grand, 126 at the Orpheum, 31 at the Gem and 28 at the Cozy. He also listed motion pictures seen in Hutchinson and other cities.

7

Powerful pipes endure. Huge pipe organs, costing $50,000 to $60,000, could be found in most movie theaters during the silent-movie era. However, during the Depression, many theaters got rid of their organs, selling them for whatever they could get. Some organs were sold for as little as $550. The Jayhawk’s Kilgen organ, purchased for $25,000, was never sold. Some of its original pipes can be seen today in a display case outside the theater’s auditorium.

TRIVIA continues on 11B

6B | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | The Topeka Capital-Journal

CURTAIN CALL SHARING MEMORIES OF THE JAYHAWK

The Topeka Capital-Journal | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | 7B

W

hile the seats have been removed from the auditorium and the lights of the stage have dimmed, the Jayhawk Theatre is full of memories for the thousands of audience members who cheered movie heroes, laughed at vaudeville comedians or applauded live acts, and for the hundreds of teenage and adult employees who took tickets, sold concessions or changed movie reels in the projection booth.

Meet a few of those people, and read their stories on pages 8B-10B.

CJONLINE.COM

NORTHEAST KANSANS SHARE THEIR MEMORIES OF THE JAYHAWK THEATRE.

PHOTO ILLUSTRATION BY THAD ALLTON AND STEWART COLE

8B | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | The Topeka Capital-Journal

Jayhawk holds many memories for area residents

By Jan Biles

jan.biles@cjonline.com

When you mention “Jayhawk Theatre,” fond memories return for many older Topekans and former residents. Here are some of those memories; other accounts can be read at cjonline.com.

A tall order

June (Myers) Dewey came face-to-face with a legend-in-the-making when she was working in the mid-1950s as a cashier at the Jayhawk Theatre — well, sort of.

One day, the 16-year-old was sitting in the cashier’s booth, taking money from moviegoers as she always did.

“I had turned my head away f r o m the glass area (of the booth), and when I turned back around it was all red. (I saw) nothing but red,” said Dewey, 77, of Holton.

The teenager leaned near the glass window, craned her neck and twisted her head so she could get a look at the person buying the ticket.

“I finally found a face up there, and it happened to be Wilt Chamberlain, which was quite exciting because he was quite a noted figure at that time,” Dewey said.

Chamberlain was a star player for the University of Kansas Jayhawks and went on to have successful professional basketball, business and entertainment careers.

Toy story

Larry Breuninger’s father was the city manager for Topeka’s Fox theaters from the 1930s until his retirement in 1956.

That meant Breuninger spent a lot of time watching movies and hanging out at the Jayhawk, which was part of the Fox system.

At times, companies would rent the Jayhawk to promote and sell their products. One of those items was Hadacol, which was marketed as a vitamin supplement but contained 12 percent alcohol.

“I was just a kid then, and I’m not sure quite how it worked, but they had the backstage (of the Jayhawk) filled with boxes of gifts they were going to give out to the kids,” Breuninger, 80, of Topeka, said.

“One Sunday morning, my dad and I … got into these boxes. I ended up with a few gifts of my own, including a cork gun.”

The plastic cork gun remains among Breuninger’s prized possessions.

“It was deadly on Christmas ornaments,” he said with a laugh. “You could kill those things without much trouble.”

Young tapper

Ted Mize, dressed in a white, silk-like shirt, blue shorts and socks, strapped on his tap shoes and took the stage in 1939 at the Jayhawk. The 8-year-old was determined to win first prize in the theater’s amateur contest and tap his way to fame.

“I danced to ‘The Sheik of Araby,’ ” Mize, 85, of Topeka, recalled. “The prize was (an opportunity) to appear on WIBW radio.”

Mize won the contest, and he and his mother later arrived at the WIBW studio for his appearance on “Kansas Round-up,” a popular Saturday night music program.

Homer Cunningham, an announcer for the radio show, looked at Mize and said, “Oh, no, you’re a tap dancer.” The studio was carpeted, and the microphones wouldn’t be able to pick up the sound of the youngster’s tap shoes.

“They put masonite and a mike on the floor,” Mize said, recalling he also was issued a warning, “Don’t touch the mike.”

WIBW staff were so impressed with Mize that he was asked to perform as part of their promotional appearances in small area towns.

Avoiding a fight

Going to Topeka to see a movie at the Jayhawk was a big deal when Ken and Marie Carlat were growing up in smalltown Kansas. Ken hailed from Dover, while Marie lived in Maple Hill.

The couple now resides in Wakarusa.

Ken, 78, recalled how one of his earliest experiences at the Jayhawk wasn’t necessarily carefree.

“I suppose I was about 10, maybe 11,” he said, explaining how his parents had dropped a friend and him off at theater to see a movie.

The boys were sitting — perhaps shifting around or standing up — in the second or third row. Suddenly, a guy sitting in the row behind them directed an order to Ken: “Why don’t you remove the corpse from underneath that coat?”

Ken said he turned around to see who made the demand, and because the guy was much bigger than he was, decided to “turn around and shut up.”

“I enjoyed the movie the best I could thinking this guy might beat me up at any moment,” he said.

Later, when Ken and Marie were teenagers and dating, they would occasionally see a movie at the Jayhawk. Those times were more pleasant.

“We always sat up in the balcony,” Ken said, with a glance toward his 76-yearold wife. “But we won’t talk about that.”

Claus for concern

Marc Drayer thought he was going to see a cheery Santa Claus movie at the Jayhawk on Dec. 24, 1960. But once the credits rolled and the lights came up, the youngster wanted nothing to do with the jolly old elf.

“Santa Claus” was billed as a fantasy extravaganza. The movie had been made in Mexico in 1959 and dubbed in English the following year.

“It was one of the creepiest movies that was ever done,” Drayer, 63, of Topeka, said.

In the movie, Santa operates out of an outer space laboratory and battles a demon that wants to ruin Christmas. Drayer said the lab is equipped with a talking computer with huge lips and a satellite dish with an ear that can tap into people’s dreams.

Santa is assisted by children from around the world, who sing while he plays an organ.

“The creepiest part was these reindeer,” he said. “They’re white mechanical reindeer. (You) wind them up, and they give this creepy sounding laugh, ‘Haaaa-oooh. Haaaa-oooh.’ One reviewer said it sounds like they’re being electrocuted.”

When the movie ended, the theater’s manager came out on the stage and told the young audience members that Santa was there and they were welcome to visit him.

“Nobody took the offer,” he said.

Drayer’s perception of Santa and his reindeer hinged on the Mexican film’s depiction until four years later when he saw “Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer,” a stop-motion animated television special.

The Mexican movie is now a cult classic that makes even Drayer laugh.

“It’s one of these movies that’s so bad it’s hilarious,” he said.

Fonda fantasy

Tom Moses attended his first “somewhat R-rated” movie at the Jayhawk Theatre.

In the late 1960s or early 1970s, he and some buddies put down their money at the theater’s S.W. 7th St., box office to see a scantily clad Jane Fonda play the title role in “Barbarella,” a sci-fi fantasy.

“Jane Fonda was reaching her peak as an actress, and this was sort of a little bit of a divergent for her, I guess, because of a couple of racy scenes,” said Moses, 65, of Topeka. “But by today’s standards, it’s pretty tame.”

In the mid-1990s, Moses was co-owner of a commercial property management company that had a connection to the Jayhawk.

“We were charged with managing the Jayhawk and basically maintaining it and just being a custodial-type of caretaker for it,” he said. “I remember there were times where we facilitated tours (of the theater).

It was still a popular attraction even back in that time, too.”

Unforgettable favor

Linda (Colvin) Funk, an admission clerk at the Jayhawk, asked her sister, Norene Colvin, to fill in for her on Aug. 14, 1963. It’s a favor her sister will never let her forget.

Norene, 17, worked full time at the Dickinson Theatre — both managed by their uncle, Leo Colvin — and would occasionally substitute at the Jayhawk. That night, as Norene was selling tickets to moviegoers at the S.W. Jackson St. box office, the theater was robbed.

“A man came up to the office and (gave her a note that) told her to start giving him the money.

So she started handing him $1 bills, a few at a time. And then when she got through with those, she started on the $5s,” Funk, 70, of Nortonville, said.

The robber grew nervous as Norene doled out the money and decided to flee.

The Topeka Daily Capital reported the robber — “a slender white man, about 25, with a tan complexion, wearing a dark suit and dark shirt with an open collar” — got away with about $85. An estimated $515 was still in the cashier’s booth. Six police cars fanned through downtown Topeka but failed to locate the robber.

The Topeka Capital-Journal | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | 9B

Making a day of it

Marcia Cassidy and her adolescent girlfriends made a day of it when they went to the Saturday matinees at the Jayhawk in the late 1940s and early ‘50s.

“We would put on our Sunday clothes, and then we’d go down to the bus stop at Collins and Huntoon,” Cassidy, 76, of Topeka, said.

The girls would ride the bus to downtown Topeka, have a sandwich and milkshake at the Woolworth’s lunch counter, and then browse the store’s cosmetics and jewelry displays before heading to the Jayhawk to buy their tickets and watch the show, which would include a movie, newsreels and cartoons.

“My mother would always pick us up,” she said. “How she knew what time the movie was over, I’ll never know.”

A few years later, in the early 1960s, her future husband, Michael Cassidy, took her to the Jayhawk to see “The Guns of Navarone,” a war story starring Gregory Peck, David Niven and Anthony Quinn. It was Michael’s first time in the Topeka movie house.

“When I first came into the Jayhawk Theatre, I thought it was the strangest theater I’d ever been into,” Michael, 77, said, describing how they had to make their way from the S.W. 7th St. box office down the long Jayhawk Walk to enter the auditorium. “I was so use to paying my money and walking in.”

Segregated ‘formality’

Topeka resident Jack Alexander said his strongest memory of the Jayhawk is as a teenager standing outside on the street and watching the doormen do their jobs.

“They were dressed in uniforms. They were usually tall people that had a feathery-like cap, and I used to stand and watch them as they would greet a car coming up to let someone out or to pick up someone,” said Alexander, 86, a former Topeka city commissioner and former Kansas Corporation Commission member.

Once inside the theater, Alexander had to sit in a cordoned-off area of the balcony designated for African-Americans, Mexi-

can-Americans and other minorities.

“Of course, people of color at that time had special places where they had to sit in theaters,” Alexander said.

“I personally have to say that I had no real affront to that at the time.”

As long as he saw the movie he had come to see and could socialize with his friends, he said, “it just didn’t matter.”

“It was just a formality,” he said. “It wouldn’t work today, but it was a formality then.”

Armed with a bat

Kathy Duncan, founding member of the Jayhawk State Theatre of Kansas, remembers a story Gov. Joan Finney told her about the Jayhawk and the lesson she learned as a youngster that would prepare her for a career in public service. Finney died in July 2001, at age 76.

Finney, as a young girl, took organ lessons from the Jayhawk’s organist. Finney noticed that her teacher would invite the male students to sit beside her while she played during the shows at the theater.

“She was very offended she was not asked,” Duncan said of Finney’s reaction.

“So she begged and begged the teacher, who finally said, ‘Fine, but this might not be what you’re expecting.’”

A date was set for Finney to sit on the bench by her teacher. A few minutes into the program, the teacher handed Finney a baseball bat and told her she needed to use it to hit the rats as they started running out from underneath the organ so they wouldn’t scurry over her feet and disrupt her playing.

The rats emerged, and Finney tried to ward them off.

“Joan Finney said it was a life lesson. It taught her not to be wishful of something when you don’t know what the outcome may or may not be,” Duncan said.

The experience didn’t deter Finney from wanting to become a theater organist, but her mother shattered that dream.

“She was very devastated when her mother pointed out to her that the career might be a short one, because … the talkies were coming in,” Duncan said.

Birthday matinees

Topekan Don Chubb remembers having birthday parties with his friends at the Jayhawk when he was in first or second grade.

“We were born in 1946. We were the first baby-boom class, and there was a lot of us,” Chubb said. “I think by the time we got into grade school (our mothers) were sick of birthday parties, and they discovered the Saturday morning matinee at the Jayhawk. … They would always have a Bgrade western, and there would be a couple of cartoons.”

Other theaters in downtown Topeka also had Saturday morning matinees, but Chubb thinks the mothers chose the Jayhawk because of its ushers, who knew how to deal with rowdy kids.

“They were trained to walk up and down the aisle, and if you put your feet up on the seat in front of you or threw popcorn over the balcony, they warned you once and the second time they marched you out of the theater,” he said.

Sewing sessions

Jillann (Mosier) Mahoney-Dawdy knew how to maximize her down time as a boxoffice cashier at the Jayhawk Theater. She took her Singer Featherweight sewing machine to work.

Mahoney-Dawdy, who lived in North Topeka, was a senior at Seaman High School who took classes for a half-day and then worked.

“I would work the matinee, and then I would sew in the manager’s office,” Mahoney-Dawdy, 76, of Grantville, said. “I did the evening (movie) as well. It didn’t pay me to get on the bus and go back (home) in order to turn around and come back.”

The teenager also had a brief encounter

with Milburn Stone and Amanda Blake of the “Gunsmoke” television show while working at the box office on S.W. 7th Street.

Stone played Doc Adams, while Blake was Kitty, a saloon owner.

Stone came up to the box office where she was working and asked, “Is ‘Gunsmoke’ playing here?” The teenager answered, “No, darn it.” Stone replied, “Alright then, I guess I have to go talk to these doctors.”

The actors were in town to make an appearance at a doctors convention.

Film journey

Carol Yoho has a long history of moviegoing at the Jayhawk, but four films are burned into her memory.

When she was 5 or 6 years old, she and a friend came to a 7 p.m. showing of “Old Yeller,” the Disney live-action movie starring Dorothy McGuire, Fess Parker and Tommy Kirk.

The ticket line was long, and by the time they reached the box office, the show had sold out. So the youngsters waited in the hallway, with tickets in hand, through the 83-minute movie and then eased into the theater for the later showing.

“What I remember primarily though was the end where the dog got killed, and how I cried,” Yoho, 67, of Topeka, said. “I cried and cried, but it was worth the wait.”

When she was junior-high age, she saw “Go Johnny Go,” a movie about an orphan who becomes a rock ’n’ roll star. A few years later, she took a chance with “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre,” a horror movie about cannibalistic psychopaths.

“It was full of blood and guts,” she said.

“I’d never seen the likes of it before, and I’ve never bothered to see another movie like it.”

After the Jayhawk began running R- and X-rated movies in the 1970s, Yoho, who was taking art classes in college, bought tickets for “Fritz the Cat,” the 1972 adult animated comedy that satirized race relations, the free love movement, college life and politics.

“I confess that I’d read Fritz cartoon books, written by Robert Crumb,” Yolo said, “and the movie version lived up to my expectations.”

Life: Board of directors assisting with project at Jayhawk Theatre Continued from 1B n Robin Bonsall, Realtor at Coldwell Banker Griffith & Blair. n Andrea Etzel, editor-inchief of Kansas Magazine.

n Scott Gales, board member at large, principal/president at Architect One. n Chris Gallagher, media/ public relations at Brewster Place. n John Gonzalez, lead devel-

oper at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas. n Irene Haws, sales and marketing at Dynamic Computer Solutions of Topeka. n Brendan Jensen, owner of Jensen Communications.

n Debra Kirmer, registered nurse at Valeo Behavioral Health Center. n Charles Morgan, account coordinator at jones huyett Partners. n Kelly Rippel, manager of

Oral Health Kansas. n George Scheckel, board member at large. n Joe Scranton, consultant/ owner of Aspera Associates. n Travis Youngblood, CEO of Tradepost Entertainment.

10B | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | The Topeka Capital-Journal

Theater tried to adapt to changes in movie business

By Jan Biles

jan.biles@cjonline.com

The Jayhawk Theatre had its beginning in 1926 with silent movies and transitioned well when talkies took over the screens in the 1930s.

The theater flourished until the advent of drivein and multiplex t he aters .

By the 1970s, the Jayhawk was showing R- and X-r a te d movies to try to keep its doors open.

Here are some of the movies that were projected on the Jayhawk’s screen.

1920s

n “Mantrap,” starring Clara Bow, first

movie at the Jayhawk, August 1926 n “Flesh and Blood,” starring Lon Chaney, May 1927 n “Monte Cristo,” starring John Gilbert, August 1927 n “The Jazz Singer,” starring Al Jolson, first talkie at Jayhawk, October 1927 n “A Woman of Affairs,” with Douglas Fairbanks Jr., March 1929

1930s

n “Sooky,” starring Jackie Cooper, first Sunday matinee at the Jayhawk, January 1932 n “Dracula,” starring Bela Lugosi, May 1932 n “The Prizefighter and the Lady,” starring Myrna Loy and Max Baer, December 1933 n “Captain Blood,” starring Errol Flynn, Olivia de Havilland and Basil Rathbone, May 1936 n “Lloyd’s of London,” starring Tyrone Powers and Freddie Bartholomew, July 1937

1940s

n “The Navy Comes Through,” starring Pat O’Brien, George Murphy, Jane Wyatt, Jackie Cooper, Max Baer and Desi Arnaz,

January 1943 n “That Uncertain Feeling,” starring Merle Oberon, Melvyn Douglas and Burgess Meredith, May 1945 n “The Great Dictator,” starring Charlie Chaplin, May 1945 n “Jesse James,” with Tyrone Powers and Henry Fonda, and “The Return of Frank James,” starring Gene Tierney and Henry Fonda, October 1946 n “Key Largo,” starring Humphrey Bogart, Lauren Bacall and Edward G. Robinson, September 1948

and Claudette Nevins; patrons received a “Magic Mystic Mask” that let them see the movie in 3D, November 1961 n “The Taming of the Shrew,” starring Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, December 1967 n “To Sir With Love,” starring Sidney Poitier, December 1967 n “Thunderball” and “From Russia with Love,” a James Bond double feature starring Sean Connery, November 1968 n “The Jungle Book,” animated Disney feature, November 1968

1950s

1970s

n “Francis Goes to West Point,” starring Donald O’Connor and a “talking” mule, July 1952 n “Them!” starring James Whitmore and Edmund Gwenn, June 1954 n “The Far Country,” starring Jimmy Stewart, February 1955 n “Blood Alley,” starring John Wayne and Lauren Bacall, October 1955 n “Rebel Without a Cause,” starring James Dean, November 1955

1960s

n “The Mask,” starring Paul Stevens

n “Adios Amigo,” starring Richard Pryor and James Brown, March 1970 n “The Exotic Adventures of Zorro,” starring Douglas Frye, October 1972 n “Around the World with Fanny Hill,” starring Shirley Corrigan, October 1974 n “Dolemite,” with Rudy Ray Moore and an “all-girl army of Kung Fu killers,” August 1975 n “Rattlers,” starring Sam Chew Jr. and Elisabeth Chauvet, March 1976 Sources: Topeka Capital-Journal archives; Shawnee County Historical Society publications

Restoration: Holecek able to raise $10.5M for McPherson Opera House Continued from 1B lery to expose an area that will be converted into a green room, dressing rooms, catering kitchen, set-building area and entrance onto the stage. n A marquee at its S.W. 7th St. entrance. n Restoration/repair of the stenciling, plaster, goddess of agriculture mural and lights in the auditorium. n Installation of 950 19- and 22-inch seats in the auditorium and balcony. n Replacement of curtains and sound and lighting systems on the stage and projector/spotlights in the projection booth. n A coffee, beer, wine and snack bar on the promenade leading to the balcony. n Replacement of tubing and repainting of the “Jayhawk” neon signs so they can be displayed inside the theater complex. Other items from the Jay-

hawk on view will include the original light board, pipes from the original Kilgen organ, a large spotlight and original theater seats.

Jayhawk Theatre received a $43,000 grant in 2013 to install temporary electrical enhancements and two 5-ton air-conditioners to reduce the humidity in the auditorium and deter additional damage, Carson said.

A separate grant of $15,000 replaced the door to the alley and a fire escape.

Other major grants have included $250,000 from the Federal Home Loan Bankl; $64,000 from the Heritage Trust Fund/ Kansas Historical Society for temporary roofing; $100,000 from the city guest tax for marquee construction; $680,000 from the city guest tax over a 12-year period for Holecek’s first-year salary and architectural costs; $51,000 from Federal

Home Loan Bank of Topeka; $5,000 from US Bank; $5,000 from the city of Topeka for marketing expenses; and $2,200 from Downtown Topeka Inc. for the gallery remodel.

“A full structure study was done (of the Jayhawk), and it was positive in 2016,” he noted.

Carson said consideration is being given to making the theater a LEED-certified structure with solar panels. The panels would save an estimated $4,000 in energy costs.

“It’s a 90-year-old facility, but we want to look 90 years forward,” he said.

The next step

Holecek is no stranger to asking for money if he believes in a cause. He raised $10.5 million for the restoration of the historic McPherson Opera House — $2 million over the cost for the theater itself — and served as its ex-

ecutive director for 13 years.

“I’ve been asked how I managed to raise $10.5 million in a town of 14,000 people,” Holecek said. “I’m not ashamed to say I pray for money.”

A capital campaign to raise $12 million is expected to be launched in the early fall. Much of the cost is expected to be covered by historic tax credits, grants and corporate and individual donations.

The capital campaign will include opportunities for largescale donors — individuals, families, corporations, organizations — to be part of the theater’s legacy by naming the auditorium or the gallery.

“I truly believe there would be broad thanks to the donors, and over time, (thanks from) the tens of thousands of people who will use the auditorium and its gallery,” Holecek said.

Other fundraising options include:

n Membership in the Million Dollar Club. For $100,000, a donor can have his or her name displayed on a theater wall. n Membership in the Jayhawk Theatre Society. Donation levels range from $25 to $1,000. Society members receive project updates, invites to member-only events and discounts on tickets. n Small name plaques on the armrests of auditorium seats, on which donors can have messages inscribed, can be purchased for various prices.

Holecek said federal and state historic tax credits are being sought for the auditorium’s restoration. The gallery, however, doesn’t qualify for tax credits.

Carson said he is determined to reopen the doors of the Jayhawk.

“The town is tired of the talk of restoration and renovation (of the Jayhawk),” he said. “We’re done talking. It’s really going to happen.”

The Topeka Capital-Journal | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | 11B

Gypsy Rose Lee performed at Jayhawk before successful burlesque career

By Jan Biles

jan.biles@cjonline.com

SUBMITTED

SUBMITTED

A young entertainer’s split from her domineering stage mother after a performance at the Jayhawk Theatre set in motion one of the most famous burlesque acts in America.

“Momma” Rose Hovick had pushed her talented younger daughter, Ellen, into vaudeville, giving her the name “Dainty June” and creating a revue of singers and dancers known as the Dainty June Co. “She was the quintessential stage mother,” said Topeka historian Doug Wallace of Hovick.

The revue was booked to perform the last week of December 1928 at the Jayhawk. The night of Dec. 29, after the show closed, Hovick called the Topeka Police Department, saying Ellen and Bobby Reed, a dancer with the revue, had disappeared.

Hovick feared they had eloped.

Later, at the police department, Reed revealed he and Ellen had married Nov. 30, 1928, at North Platte, Neb., and had a marriage license to prove it. Hovick’s worry turned to anger.

“The police confiscated a small automatic revolver she carried,” The State Journal reported on Dec.

JAN BILES/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Topeka historian Doug Wallace recently found a newspaper clipping that verifies the split-up of the Dainty June Co. after the vaudeville troupe performed on the Jayhawk Theatre’s stage.

31, 1928. “Two hours later, the police department received a second call from Momma Hovick. She complained her son-in-law had struck her. Patrolmen who answered the call found neither (Reed) nor bruises on Momma Hovick that would indicate she had been struck. No arrests were made.”

By Sunday morning, Hovick and her other daughter, Rose Louise, were off to El Paso, Texas.

Rose Louise’s singing and dancing weren’t strong enough to fill Ellen’s shoes in the revue. A new act, Rose

Louise and Her Hollywood Blondes, began touring with little success.

When the troupe came to Kansas City in 1929, only to find themselves booked at a burlesque house, Rose Louise took to the stage and did her first striptease.

That decision that would lead to her lengthy entertainment career as Gypsy Rose Lee and a stage musical and movie, both titled “Gypsy,” based on her 1957 memoir.

“She was probably the greatest of all vaudevillians of the late ’20s and early ’30s,” Wallace said.

(Top left) Rose Louise Hovick, who later would become burlesque queen Gypsy Rose Lee, was part of a vaudeville act that played the Jayhawk Theatre in December 1928. (Left) A poster advertises the Dainty June Co., a touring vaudeville troupe, that headlined at the Jayhawk Theatre on Dec. 29, 1928.

Topeka goes Hollywood for movie’s world premiere

By Jan Biles

jan.biles@cjonline.com

The memory of actor Randolph Scott riding a sorrel horse in a downtown Topeka parade is clear in Keith Ramsey’s mind, even after 68 years.

Scott and several other actors had come to the capital city on Oct. 13, 1949, for the world premiere of the movie “Fighting Man of the Plains.”

“He fascinated me — the way he’d ride in the saddle,” said Scott, 90, of Topeka. “He sat up straight.”

Scott, dressed in a black western outfit, led the 12:15 p.m. parade, straddling the horse he had ridden in many of his movies, according to The Topeka Capital-Journal archives. Riding in convertibles were actors George “Gabby” Hayes, Victor Jory, Dale Robertson, Joan Taylor and Mary Stuart.

A crowd estimated at more than 35,000 jammed the streets along the S. Kansas Ave. parade route. Also in the parade were Sen. Arthur Capper and Gov. Frank Carlson; Haskell Institute

students in ceremonial dress; covered wagons, carriages and a stagecoach from Fort Leavenworth; and high school marching bands.

Hollywood officials agreed to take the parade to Topeka High School because school officials were worried students would skip classes to see the actors.

After the parade, Scott and the other actors performed two shows at Winters Veterans Hospital, while swarms of people lingered near the Jayhawk Hotel, hoping to get the stars’ autographs.

“The Fighting Man of the Plains” told the story of Jim Dancer, a renegade frontiersman who stood against William Quantrill’s raiders.

The Jayhawk box office started selling $1 tickets at 9 a.m. for the screenings at 7 and 9:30 p.m. Giant searchlights and musicians greeted people as they entered the theater that night.

Scott and the rest of the troupe performed a skit at the premiere and left immediately after the 9:30 p.m. appearance to go to Kansas City.

TRIVIA continued from 5B

8

Lindbergh flies to screen.

The first motion picture about Charles Lindbergh’s nonstop flight from Long Island, N.Y., to Paris was shown the week of May 29June 5, 1927, at the Jayhawk — nine days after the flight itself.

The movies playing at the theater that TRIVIA week included “Flesh and Blood,” a drama starring Lon Chaney, and a short travelogue about Ireland featuring humorist Will Rogers.

9

Flower power. When the Jayhawk opened in August 1926, builder E.H. Crosby and his associates were inundated with flowers. According to The CapitalJournal archives, “Floral tributes to members of the Jayhawk Theatre Co. and the executives of the Crosby Brothers Co. are on display in every angle and turn of the Jayhawk Walk, the mezzanine of the theater and in the offices of the two companies.”

10 11

Keeping cool. Were its coils used to cool water rather than air, the original refrigeration plant at the Jayhawk Theater would have been capable of turning out 100 tons of ice a day.

The finest materials.

Built into one of the display windows along the Jaywalk Walk were a pool and fountain, finished in the finest Batchelder tile. The floor in the display window, which could be reconfigured to cover the pool and fountain, was made of zenitherm, a fabricated material that resembled marble.

12

Tourism promotion.

Hollywood actress Kay Gordon arrived in Topeka on June 6, 1935, to make a film to promote the city. The Jayhawk Theatre and The State Journal sponsored her visit. Once finished, the film was to be shown at the Jayhawk.

Sources: Topeka Capital-Journal archives; Jayhawk Theatre Newsette

12B | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | The Topeka Capital-Journal

The Topeka Capital-Journal | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | 1C

D O W N T O W N :

E X P A N D I N G

T H E

C O R E

RISING LEADERS

S E C T I O N 3 O F 4

2017 DOWNTOWN TOPEKA’S RISING LEADERS

2C | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | The Topeka Capital-Journal

Michelle De La Isla 2017 DOWNTOWN TOPEKA’S RISING LEADERS PRESENTED BY THE NEW

WESTAR

BMW VW of TOPEKA

When you are looking for fans of downtown Topeka, you might want to start with Michelle De La Isla.

The 41-year-old New York native, who was raised in Bayamón, Puerto Rico, came to the capital city as a result of her ex-husband’s job.

Before long, she felt like Topeka was her hometown.

She was elected to the Topeka City Council. Now, she is a candidate for mayor in the upcoming election.

A few years ago, De La Isla became involved in the downtown redevelopment process, encouraging young people to get involved.

Her passion for downtown burns brightly to this day.

She said as a councilwoman, it has been a “privilege to have the hard discussions during budget time and to spearhead the conversation on increasing the grant funds that support our infrastructure,” recognizing the impact downtown has on Topeka’s overall quality of life.

De La Isla sees exciting developments in the next few years, with a downtown full of shops, restaurants and entertainment opportunities.

In the meantime, she shows her commitment by supporting downtown merchants.

“I half-time live in Juli’s, support Hazel Hill, Classic Bean, HHB BBQ , Jersey Mike’s, Field of Greens and Moburt’s — have you had their spices? Wow!,” she says.

“Bottom line, we can all have a significant impact by supporting our merchants.”

THAD ALLTON/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Michelle De La Isla says an important step in downtown redevelopment came when youths were included in the planning and dreaming stages.

— PHIL ANDERSON

Pat Tolin 2017 DOWNTOWN TOPEKA’S RISING LEADERS PRESENTED BY THE NEW

MCPHERSON CONTRACTING

BMW VW of TOPEKA

On a bustling work site at the corner of 10th and Kansas sits a McPherson Contracting trailer. Inside, under a television, are the blueprints for the Cyrus Hotel.

The eight-story boutique hotel is expected to be completed sometime next year. For now, it’s a dusty station of steel and sweat overseen by Pat Tolin.

Much of the downtown development this year and next will be guided by Tolin, project manager for McPherson. Along with the hotel, that includes the future 720 Kansas Office Building, 718 Kansas Lofts and RND Restaurant.

“We work closely with the investors, owners and architects to ensure their vision for the project is executed. These projects will lead the effort to revitalize the downtown area,” he said.

Infrastructure projects, pocket parks and sidewalk enhancements along Kansas Avenue laid the groundwork for the ventures Tolin and his crew will build.

“It’s fortunate it worked out that way,” he said.

Tolin is a Topeka native who moved back to town in 2000 after graduating from Kansas State University. He’s mum on a few future projects that haven’t yet been announced publicly, but he has confidence in his hometown’s advancement.

“In three years, I envision downtown Topeka as a vibrant community gathering, dining, and retail shopping venue on a pathway to rival any downtown setting in the Midwest,” he said.

— JUSTIN WINGERTER

CHRIS NEAL/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Pat Tolin, project manager for McPherson Contracting, is working on downtown redevelopment projects.

Sarah & Jason Fizell 2017 DOWNTOWN TOPEKA’S RISING LEADERS PRESENTED BY THE NEW

CHRIS NEAL/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Jason and Sarah Fizell are huge supporters of the arts in downtown Topeka. Their family, including Astra and Geneva, also enjoy the outside space at the Rowhouse Restaurant, an establishment that reminds them of the vibrancy in Washington, D.C.

ARTSCONNECT, SUNFLOWER FOUNDATION

BMW VW of TOPEKA

When Sarah and Jason Fizell moved back to Kansas from the East Coast, they were drawn to the Rowhouse Restaurant and Bosco’s.

The downtown establishments “reminded us of the vibrancy of D.C. and showed a generation of Topeka young professionals that a downtown rebirth was possible and desirable,” they said.

The couple then helped plan an “Arty Party” in unfinished lofts with a view of downtown and the Topeka skyline. That was all about converting an empty space into something cool, Jason Fizell said. The sixth “Arty Party” was held in April at the Dillon House, 404 S.W. 9th.

As executive director of ARTSConnect, Sarah Fizell’s work has emphasized downtown as a place for arts and culture to bloom.

The Fizells believe that a strong arts presence will anchor the downtown district, and both are dedicated to creating public support for that endeavor.

“It is a passion for both of us as we look toward the future and have a personal stake in making sure that Topeka is successful in the future,” Sarah Fizell said.

The pair also loves live music and are excited to see what the Jayhawk Theatre and plaza bring to downtown’s nightlife.

Having a place to socialize and a common space for the whole community will enliven the city center and make a huge difference, Sarah Fizell said.

The couple’s two children have also enjoyed the progress downtown.

“Our daughters like climbing all over the new kid-friendly amenities as well as searching out all the state medallions in the sidewalks,” Jason Fizell said.

— KATIE MOORE

Brett & Amber Oetting 2017 DOWNTOWN TOPEKA’S RISING LEADERS PRESENTED BY THE NEW

VISIT TOPEKA, SYNOVIM

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Brett Oetting and Amber Gentry Oetting are passionate about telling the story of downtown Topeka, whether it’s to friends and family or on social media.

“Our city’s narrative begins downtown, and it begins with all of us sharing that story,” the couple said.

An essential component in that story is the people.

“For me, our downtown shines at its very best when natives, locals and visitors completely transform the area by just showing up. It’s literally what gives our downtown life,” Gentry Oetting said.

Last year, while Oetting was strolling through the inaugural Kansas Chocolate Festival, what he most noticed were the lines of customers at downtown businesses and pocket parks packed with families.

“It wasn’t about what the area looked like, it was about people from all walks of life enjoying themselves together,” he said.

Downtown’s story has evolved immensely since Gentry Oetting moved to Topeka in June 2004. When she went downtown after 5 p.m., she was shocked to find it deserted. Comparing it to downtown districts in Boulder and Denver, she wondered why it was so empty.

It prompted Gentry Oetting to join every volunteer opportunity, organization and committee dedicated to revitalization.

As CEO of Visit Topeka, Oetting is working on an operating plan for the downtown plaza with activities 300 days out of the year. The plan takes the city’s diversity into consideration, as well as arts and culture.

There will be something for everyone, he said.

— KATIE MOORE

THAD ALLTON/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Brett Oetting and Amber Gentry Oetting are passionate about telling downtown Topeka’s story.

The Topeka Capital-Journal | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | 3C

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Jenny Torrence 2017 DOWNTOWN TOPEKA’S RISING LEADERS PRESENTED BY THE NEW

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Jenny Torrence owns several businesses in the 800 block of N. Kansas Avenue Torrence said NOTO’s growth has been a grassroots effort.

SERENDIPITY

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Jenny Torrence has followed in her father’s footsteps as a north Topeka small-business owner.

Six years ago, she took the leap to establish a business in the NOTO Arts District.

“I see the need for rehabilitation and a chance to breathe life into an area that has been forgotten,” the native Topekan said. “I decided instead of sitting back complaining of what Topeka doesn’t have, I could step up and help to create something that Topeka can be proud of.”

Today there’s a “crazy difference,” in NOTO. When Torrence established Serendipity, her “first adventure,” she said there were days when she didn’t see anyone. Now cars line the block throughout the week.

Her businesses — Serendipity, NOTO Burrito, and Pinkadilly — line much of the 800 block of N. Kansas Ave. NOTO’s progress has been “a grassroots thing,” Torrence said.

“I am so proud of Topeka coming out and not only supporting the art walks, but supporting all the small businesses weekly,” said Torrence, who is on the board of the Chamber of Commerce and the NOTO Arts District.

It’s important for people to understand what small, mom-and-pop businesses bring to the community, she said.

Torrence hopes to see the area’s focus expand beyond the 800 and 900 blocks of N. Kansas, with living spaces and a local grocery store.

With growth in the downtown district and development with the Riverfront, it will all link together, she said.

— KATIE MOORE

Tobias Harvey 2017 DOWNTOWN TOPEKA’S RISING LEADERS PRESENTED BY THE NEW

CREATE/UPLIFT

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As head of advertising and multimedia company Create/Uplift, Tobias Harvey is committed to catalyzing a “culture shift of what Topeka is.”

The company’s distinct, edgy look is created at 712 Innovations. Harvey is a strong supporter of the makerspace, which provides a home base where he can meet with clients in a professional setting.

Create/Uplift also teaches classes there and tries to attract members.

A lot of the company’s work outside 712 Innovations also takes place downtown.

“Many of our photo and video works feature the urban landscape of downtown’s back alleyways and streets,” Harvey said.

Harvey and business partner Marcy Gonzalez also have shot downtown events and promotional pieces for projects such as the downtown plaza and Jayhawk Theatre.

Harvey appreciates enhancements along Kansas Avenue such as local art and sculptures that have been added the past couple of years.

“The street and architecture are amazing,” he said.

But he’s straightforward about how he sees the current state of downtown.

“Nightlife in downtown is nonexistent right now,” Harvey said.

He’d like to see an entertainment and nightlife district evolve, with restaurants, dive bars and unique shops.

A cultural shift would change people’s view of what Topeka is, and focus needs to be on the 18 to 32 age group, Harvey said.

— KATIE MOORE

Marcy Gonzalez 2017 DOWNTOWN TOPEKA’S RISING LEADERS PRESENTED BY THE NEW

CREATE/UPLIFT

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Marcy Gonzalez wants downtown Topeka to become the center of activity for a “legit music scene.”

Right now, the Kansas Expocentre and Topeka Performing Arts Center provide large spaces for big-name

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Marcy Gonzalez, left, and Tobias Harvey, of multimedia company Create/Uplift, believe getting younger people involved will contribute to the success of downtown’s makeover. acts, and small bars host local bands.

Cultivating the downtown Plaza and the Jayhawk Theatre will be the middle ground Topeka needs, Gonzalez said.

As part of Create/Uplift, Gonzalez has been involved with organizing downtown events that support that goal, putting together fundraisers for the theater’s restoration and

zalez said. Collaborations between Create/Uplift and the Forge marketing team and ARTSConnect are transforming Topeka’s image and getting the word out about energy downtown.

One important factor in making downtown successful is getting the college community involved, Gonzalez added.

artist collaborations at the proposed plaza site to drum up awareness. The plaza is definitely needed as a venue, and Jayhawk Theater will be an amazing setting once restored to bring in a range of live music, he said.

The media company wants to make Topeka cool and ensure that people know about downtown events — something that doesn’t always happen, Gon-

— KATIE MOORE

2017 DOWNTOWN TOPEKA’S RISING LEADERS PRESENTED BY THE NEW

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Brendan Jensen & Amber Beckley-Jensen 826 S. KANSAS OWNERS

RISING LEADERS RECEPTION BMW of Topeka will honor this year’s Rising Leaders of Downtown Topeka with a reception from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., Thursday, July 20, at its location, BMW | VW of Topeka, 3030 S. Kansas Ave. Also invited will be the Movers & Shakers featured in The Topeka Capital-Journal’s 2016 downtown edition.

Honorees were selected based on their contributions to the downtown area determined through conversations with business and city leaders.

CHRIS NEAL/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Brendan Jensen and Amber Beckley-Jensen are in the midst of renovating 826 S. Kansas Ave. The couple is engaged in downtown development on a number of fronts.

Brendan Jensen and Amber Beckley-Jensen are engaged in downtown’s evolution on a number of fronts.

As owners of 826 S. Kansas Ave., one of the oldest buildings on the east side of the 800 block, the couple is in the process of restoring the façade to reflect the original one from the early 1900s as well as renovating both floors of the building.

They also volunteer with Downtown Topeka Inc. Jensen, a city councilman, has been involved with revitalization efforts for several years, as designs have evolved and public input has been collected.

A major component of progress has been the public-private partnerships that have laid the foundation for downtown’s success, Jensen said.

It’s important to have a central entertainment district, he said, a place that’s the core of the community where people can gather and know there’s something to do.

It will enhance the quality of life, Jensen said.

In the summer of 2014, as construction along Kansas Avenue impeded traffic and therefore business, Beckley-Jensen formed the Downtown Summer Yoga Series.

“I wanted to do something positive and bring in people,” the native Topekan said.

The classes were held at various spots downtown. A unique component was that downtown shop owners had a chance to talk to participants at the yoga sessions in an effort to reach potential patrons.

It worked really well to bring people into downtown establishments, Beckley-Jensen said.

— KATIE MOORE

The Topeka Capital-Journal | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | 5C

6C | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | The Topeka Capital-Journal regular hangout.

When HTK Architects moved its office in late 2013, Snethen once again began having regular interactions with people and spaces downtown.

“Being downtown at all hours of the day over the course of many years has allowed me to experience downtown from many different perspectives,” he said.

Snethen also has been involved with downtown organizations for several years and serves as this year’s chairman with Downtown Topeka Inc. and 712 Innovations.

“I have greatly enjoyed serving on the DTI board,” he said. “More than board meetings, I enjoy regularly helping with events — everything from barricade watching to trash cleanup at the end of the night. This is a great opportunity to ensure these events are successful.”

Snethen said special events bring new crowds downtown to explore.

Since 2013, Snethen has helped organize the annual Downtown Topeka Touch-a-Truck event, which has continued to grow and bring families downtown.

He’s also enthusiastic about the Topeka Metro Bikes system.

“Having bikes readily available downtown is a great asset to our community on both a recreational level and as a means for transportation,” Snethen said.

Maria Kutina 2017 DOWNTOWN TOPEKA’S RISING LEADERS PRESENTED BY THE NEW

HTK ARCHITECTS

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When HTK Architects moved to 9th and Kansas Avenue, it introduced Maria Kutina to a whole new vision of downtown Topeka.

Before that, she didn’t have much of a connection to the area.

“There is a community downtown and a lot of people who want to help make it better. I now feel like I’m a part of the downtown community and have now attended many events,” Kutina said. “I now encourage my siblings to come downtown with their kids to show them how much there is to offer over here.”

Though the family-friendly events draw her downtown for special events, Kutina said she also would love to see more dining and nightlife.

“I often go to lunch downtown to socialize and get out of the office and would like to see more options,” she said. “If there were a few restaurants that had great food and beer, and were open in the evenings, this area would be a wonderful place to go.”

HTK Architects, which has a company membership to GO Topeka, is working on designing the downtown plaza, she said.

“Downtown Topeka has many great leaders who have a passion to make downtown a strong community,” said Kutina, who is a member of the National Association of Women in Construction and Topeka Facilities Managers’ Association.

“I think in a few more years, these efforts will be realized.”

— KATIE MOORE

THAD ALLTON/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

When HTK Architects moved its office in 2013 to the 900 block of S. Kansas Avenue, it gave Zach Snethen and Maria Kutina a chance to connect in new ways with downtown Topeka.

Zach Snethen 2017 DOWNTOWN TOPEKA’S RISING LEADERS PRESENTED BY THE NEW

HTK ARCHITECTS

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Growing up in Topeka, Zach Snethen regularly skateboarded at night in downtown Topeka, and the Classic Bean was a

— KATIE MOORE

Andrea Engstrom 2017 DOWNTOWN TOPEKA’S RISING LEADERS PRESENTED BY THE NEW

Josiah Engstrom 2017 DOWNTOWN TOPEKA’S RISING LEADERS

BAJILLION AGENCY

PRESENTED BY

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THE NEW

As president of the Downtown Neighborhood Improvement Association, Andrea Engstrom is working to reach current residents and attract potential residents.

The goal of the NIA, which was formed this year, is for people to know their neighbors, Engstrom said. To qualify as an NIA, at least 51 percent of the residents have to live below the poverty line. An important component is connecting disadvantaged downtown areas with information and resources, she said.

Living downtown is “like having our own oasis in the middle of fun things that are happening in the heart of the community,” Engstrom said.

As a resident of Kansas Avenue, Engstrom said she has gotten to know her neighbors and local business owners.

She and her husband, Josiah, are generating grass-roots interest in downtown living by showing the quality of life it provides for young families. They often host gatherings at their loft and have other young couples asking if they know of any residential spaces for sale. The couple believes that one way to naturally generate after-hours traffic is by having housing downtown.

Engstrom was part of the Capital District Project and now serves on the Downtown Topeka Foundation board and the Heartland Visioning Steering Committee.

Through her work with Bajillion Agency, she’s also worked on rebranding projects for downtown companies.

— KATIE MOORE

CHRIS NEAL/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Josiah and Andrea Engstrom moved into a downtown loft in February 2016.

MOTOVIKE FILMS

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Downtown resident Josiah Engstrom said he has a much better feel for the community than when he and his family lived in a more suburban area of Topeka.

That feeling, as well as anticipation about incoming restaurants, are perks to living downtown, he said.

RND Topeka, which is expected to open early next year, is on the same block as the Engstrom’s loft, and he half-jokingly said he wants to assemble a pulley system for quick food delivery.

His family of six moved into a downtown loft in February 2016.

“We’ve loved it,” he said.

Engstrom said downtown areas are a natural draw. Wherever he travels, downtown districts are the first place he thinks to go for dinner or to do something fun. Visitors to Topeka must have the same instinct, he said.

Through Engstrom’s work as a cinematographer with MotoVike Films, he’s shot such downtown Topeka events as Doug Danger’s motorcycle jump over 15 cars last summer. He’s also been involved in creating videos for such downtown companies as Architect One and organizations such as Forge.

The film production company is teaming up with Bajillion Agency, where his wife, Andrea, is president, to create a Topeka website that will feature downtown lofts as part of what makes different neighborhoods cool to live in.

— KATIE MOORE

Greg Fox 2017 DOWNTOWN TOPEKA’S RISING LEADERS PRESENTED BY THE NEW

ROWHOUSE RESTAURANT

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Having essentially grown up in downtown Topeka, native Greg Fox wants to continue building his life in the capital city’s urban core.

“I’ve always liked downtown from the time I was 7 years old,” Fox said, adding that his mother fed the children attending Assumption Catholic grade school. “I’ve always liked downtown — from the time Macy’s was here and I was growing up.

I just like this setting of Topeka. It’s not new to me in the slightest.”

Fox, 51, a 1984 Hayden High graduate, left Topeka in 1988 but found his way back almost 20 years later. He said he was drawn back to the capital city by his immediate and extended family members.

“I really didn’t want to invest in another city,” he said. “I wanted to invest in a city where I have family, nieces and nephews and cousins. I have 100 first cousins.

That’s why I came back.”

Fox opened the RowHouse Restaurant, 515 S.W. Van Buren, in 2007, to offer a fresh take on fine dining in Topeka in the historical rowhouses just west of Kansas Ave. He said although he has helped contribute to making downtown Topeka more inviting, recent improvement haven’t diminished the love he has for his boyhood home.

“I’ve always liked downtown in every rendition it’s been,” he said. “I’ve never, ever thought it was anything less than awesome.”

— ANGELA DEINES

Dave Frederick 2017 DOWNTOWN TOPEKA’S RISING LEADERS PRESENTED BY THE NEW

ROWHOUSE RESTAURANT

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Dave Frederick, 41, loves being part of downtown Topeka, literally.

The real estate agent and Seaman High School graduate lives next door to RowHouse Restaurant that he helped his now husband Greg Fox open 10 years ago.

“We are actively living downtown, try-

CHRIS NEAL/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Dave Frederick, left, and Greg Fox love being part of downtown Topeka as residents and owners of RowHouse restaurant. ing to patronize businesses here, living an urban lifestyle,” he said. “We’re walking the sidewalks, just being part of it, literally immersed.”

The renovations to downtown Topeka as whole are welcomed, but in Frederick’s opinion, the single most important enhancement downtown has been the renovation of the state Capitol building.

“I think it’s an awesome architectural building,” he said. “It’s a huge anchor. It’s

awesome, and I think it’s kind of overlooked. People just see it and drive by but it’s an awesome, awesome thing.”

Frederick said he was encouraged to hear the Statehouse would be open on Saturdays, which will encourage visitors to spend more time downtown when normally they might not. He said that can only be beneficial to downtown businesses and for the capital city’s tourism initiative.

Looking to the future, Frederick said

he sees more people deciding to make downtown Topeka their home, as he and Fox have. He said an estimated 800 people actively live in downtown, and he expects a newly formed downtown neighborhood association to continue growing.

“Hopefully more people will move downtown,” he said. “Hopefully there will be more retail businesses for the residents to use.”

— ANGELA DEINES

The Topeka Capital-Journal | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | 7C

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Cody Foster 2017 DOWNTOWN TOPEKA’S RISING LEADERS PRESENTED BY THE NEW

CYRUS HOTEL

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Since arriving in the capital city on an endowed scholarship to attend Washburn University, Cody Foster envisions his adopted hometown having a destination downtown — and he’s willing to invest in making that happen.

“We are trying to bring some quality of life and entertainment options to downtown,” said Foster, owner and founder of AIM Strategies LLC, a leader in the economic development of downtown. “I was impressed when I originally saw the plans for redevelopment, but when I asked if they had any businesses lined up to move into downtown, the answer was ‘no.’ So, we decided to invest in building or bringing new concepts downtown.”

Foster, who is also a cofounder of Advisors Excel, said his vision for downtown Topeka goes beyond Kansas Avenue, where he and AIM partners Seth Wagoner and Don Heiland are developing the Cyrus Hotel.

“I see a vibrant corridor stretching from 10th Street through the Kansas River and into the NOTO district full of unique local restaurants and other entertainment options,” he said. “Ideally, we would find an incredible anchor for the post office building that also draws people downtown.

I truly believe this area can become an amazing entertainment and quality of life district.”

Foster said he believes the improvements to the Statehouse often don’t get the attention they deserve as an enhancement to the downtown area.

“We have an amazing Capitol building with a ton of people visiting it every month,” he said. “It’s an amazing anchor for downtown that sometimes gets overlooked.”

— ANGELA DEINES

THAD ALLTON/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Don Heiland (left), Seth Wagoner (center), and Cody Foster have invested in downtown.

Don Heiland 2017 DOWNTOWN TOPEKA’S RISING LEADERS PRESENTED BY THE NEW

CYRUS HOTEL

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Growing up in southwest Shawnee County, Don Heiland, 23, didn’t get to downtown Topeka often until he worked at Hill’s Pet Nutrition as a college student.

“However, when I joined the team at AIM Strategies in April of 2015 and began looking at downtown, it is easy to see how this area of our community presents a fantastic opportunity,” he said. “Often, many downtown areas of cities are old. Meaning, the businesses downtown have been established for decades, the building and finishes are dated, etc. But here in Topeka, we have the unique opportunity to create something new and exciting downtown.”

Heiland is part of a small but powerful team of investors who

are building the Cyrus Hotel in the 900 block of S. Kansas Avenue.

He said the boutique hotel, which broke ground in December will spur other economic activity in the downtown corridor.

“With construction beginning on the hotel, we are now identifying opportunities to bring unique attractions to accompany the hotel,” he said. “They will contribute to a lively downtown that entices people in Topeka and outside Topeka to visit.”

In addition to working on the hotel, Heiland serves on the board of the Downtown Topeka Foundation to “generate more investment into the downtown area to foster economic, social and cultural development.”

“When every block is filled with businesses, attractions, and entertainment,” he said, “this investment will pay dividends.”

— ANGELA DEINES

Seth Wagoner 2017 DOWNTOWN TOPEKA’S RISING LEADERS PRESENTED BY THE NEW

CYRUS HOTEL

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Seth Wagoner would like to see the day when it is diffcult to find a parking spot in downtown Topeka all the time.

“We need to make Topeka a place where families want to relocate to and businesses want to open their factories and offices,” said Wagoner, 40, who is leading the development and execution of projects in Topeka’s downtown corridor, principally the Cyrus Hotel. “It is very important to me that this initiative succeed, and I also want to use as many existing Topeka businesses to accomplish this goal so that everyone can share in the success.”

Like many who are investing their time, resources and support downtown, Wagoner said he hopes the area becomes a hub

THAD ALLTON/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Rosa Cavazos and Michaela Saunders, with Visit Topeka, are involved with developing downtown festivals and plaza programming.

Rosa Cavazos 2017 DOWNTOWN TOPEKA’S RISING LEADERS PRESENTED BY THE NEW

VISIT TOPEKA

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Rosa Cavazos foresees year-round events coming to fruition downtown.

Several recent festivals have drawn thousands of people and illustrated downtown’s potential as a place for locals and visitors to come together.

“The Kansas Chocolate Festival was absolutely huge downtown,” Cavazos said.

More than 10,000 people attended the September 2016 festival.

The collaboration between Visit Topeka and Mars Chocolate North America was two years in the making, Cavazos said, and plans are in the works to add a “Chocolate After Dark” event.

“I am planting the seeds for events and festivals to take place in the public plaza.

Michaela Saunders 2017 DOWNTOWN TOPEKA’S RISING LEADERS PRESENTED BY THE NEW

VISIT TOPEKA

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Ideas for a downtown plaza collected in a survey by Visit Topeka last spring are now coming to life, said Michaela Saunders.

“It’s just time to make it happen,” she said.

The plaza, which is in the design stage, will change the way Topekans think about Topeka, and Visit Topeka is an active partner on development and programming for the future plaza.

“Those children will grow up with a sense of pride in their community that I hope every Topekan will have,” Saunders said.

Professionally, Saunders is committed to marketing Topeka, including downtown, as a destination. Visit Topeka has

I am hoping our community will see that we can have a variety of events all year long,” the Topeka High School graduate said. “We just need to work within our climate and use it to our advantage.”

In December 2016, Visit Topeka hosted WinterFest, featuring ice sculptures, food trucks and kids’ activities. Cavazos hopes to build on events such as WinterFest and is already seeing programming such as Cyclovia expand.

Cavazos said she’s energized about plans for the plaza, which will provide a space for special events and everyday gatherings.

“With the addition of the public plaza, I see our community coming together to eat, listen to music, see plays, art, exercise and just be a part of our downtown,” Cavazos said. “It is exciting.”

— KATIE MOORE

made strategic decisions to prominently feature news of downtown developments to visitors.

“There is so much good news to share about the new downtown, and as I’ve heard others say, ‘We’re just getting started,’ ” Saunders said.

Personally, Saunders described herself as “a Topekan who loves to explore and experience the community. Our family has gotten to know several downtown shop owners through our patronage, and we enjoy spending time downtown.”

Many of those local business owners have partnered with Visit Topeka during events and have taken risks such as expanding their hours.

“The single best recent enhancement to downtown Topeka is the commitment of the business community to their role in creating downtown’s sense of place,” Saunders said.

— KATIE MOORE

of activity.

“I would like it to be an entertainment district that has unique, local offerings that people don’t leave right after work, and an area of town that becomes a gathering point for festivals, concerts, and conventions,” he said.

Wagoner, CEO and chief financial officer of AIM Strategies LLC, credits local leaders for their approach of investing in the vision to bring downtown back as a thriving area.

“From (former city manager) Jim Colson to (interim city manager) Doug Gerber, Bill Fiander, our county commissioners and all their teams, they get it,” he said.

“The spirit of private investment coupled with local government cooperation is something that Topeka has really needed for a long time, and we are making great strides every day.”

— ANGELA DEINES

THAD ALLTON/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Gabriel O’Shea with Forge and Kristen Brunkow O’Shea with Heartland Visioning have an ambitious vision of downtown Topeka that includes the presence of young professionals, shops and year-round activity.

Gabriel O’Shea 2017 DOWNTOWN TOPEKA’S RISING LEADERS PRESENTED BY THE NEW

FORGE

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A vibrant downtown Topeka will attract and retain young professionals.

“I want to see a grocery store, bars, restaurants, coffee shops, restaurants, lofts and lots of young people,” native Topekan Gabriel O’Shea said.

Young professionals are flocking to cities that offer these amenities in their downtown districts. Affordability and the ability to walk or bike also are important elements.

“Downtown is the heart of the city, and without a thriving downtown, there will not be a thriving city,” said O’Shea, the executive director of Forge. “For Topeka to continue to attract young talents, we need to create this in our

2017 DOWNTOWN TOPEKA’S RISING LEADERS PRESENTED BY THE NEW

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Kristen Brunkow O’Shea HEARTLAND VISIONING

One day in the not-so-distant future, Kristen Brunkow O’Shea hopes to bike through downtown, passing retail shops and stopping off to paint pottery and drink wine with a group of friends. Later, making her way across the Kansas bridge, she catches a glimpse of a person zip-lining across the river.

Though an ambitious vision, Brunkow O’Shea said thinking outside the box and working together with partners are what it takes to make revitalization a reality.

Improvements, as Brunkow O’Shea sees it, would stretch from the NOTO Arts District to the Kansas Riverfront

downtown.”

Forge’s work promotes culture, networking and activities that appeal to young professionals. The organization has hosted events showcasing downtown developments and connected people to various downtown organizations and leaders. Last fall, it hosted Forge Fest at S.W. 9th and Jackson, which drew about 500 people.

As executive director, O’Shea also has been advocating for the Home Rule Bill, which was introduced during the Kansas legislature’s last session. The bill would allow municipalities to designate entertainment districts conducive to nightlife and restaurants. In essence, the bill would allow Topeka to create an area similar to downtown Kansas City’s Power & Light District, O’Shea said.

— KATIE MOORE

and into the heart of downtown on Kansas Avenue, in a continuous expanse of activity and green spaces.

Brunkow O’Shea said one “small but mighty” change that’s already taken place along Kansas Avenue is the landscaping.

“I love the small ginkgo trees, the flowers and greenery planted. It provides a huge boost to the aesthetics,” she said.

Another addition is the formation of the downtown neighborhood improvement association, an initiative that Brunkow O’Shea helped get off the ground.

“This gives the neighbors an opportunity to communicate with each other and the city on their challenges and successes,” she said. “Most importantly, this NIA provides a place where the residents in downtown Topeka can build relationships.”

— KATIE MOORE

The Topeka Capital-Journal | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | 9C

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Alicia VanWalleghem 2017 DOWNTOWN TOPEKA’S RISING LEADERS PRESENTED BY THE NEW

THAD ALLTON/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Alicia VanWalleghem, ownver of Leaping Llamas, sees a renewed vibrancy in downtown Topeka, with “all the little things coming together.”

LEAPING LLAMAS ARTISAN SHOP

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When it came time for Alicia VanWalleghem to open a business in Topeka, she did her due diligence.

The biggest question, once she decided to move forward with her dream, was where to locate her store.

The 33-year-old VanWalleghem, a Topeka native, spoke with a number of people before opting to open her store, the Leaping Llamas Artisan Shop, at 725 S. Kansas Ave. Opening in August 2016, the shop offers gallery space for local artists, in addition to diverse classes for all ages.

Some nine months after opening her shop, VanWalleghem said she has no regrets about locating it downtown.

In many ways, she feels like she is on the ground floor of something big that is about to happen.

“Downtown is an exciting place to be now,” VanWalleghem said. “In three years, I imagine even more vibrancy, with several restaurants, retail shops and events to keep people coming downtown.”

VanWalleghem said she appreciates the support she has received from other downtown businesses as well as the work done by organizations such as Downtown Topeka Inc. There is a spirit of working together so everyone will succeed.

“I believe it is all the little things coming together,” VanWalleghem said. “Several people have put in effort on many fronts, and it is exciting to see the impact it makes.”

— PHIL ANDERSON

Brittany Stiffler Crabtree 2017 DOWNTOWN TOPEKA’S RISING LEADERS PRESENTED BY THE NEW

JONES HUYETT PARTNERS

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Coming to the capital city after living in other areas of the country, Brittany Stiffler Crabtree was able to see the attributes — the potential — of downtown Topeka, possibly more clearly than people who have lived here for years.

Crabtree, a senior strategist at Jones Huyett Partners who previously lived in Indiana, Ohio and Missouri, came to Topeka for a Statehouse internship with former Gov. Kathleen Sebelius.

“That’s when I became passionate about downtown Topeka,” Crabtree says. “Having a thriving downtown isn’t a big, fluffy, visionary idea for me — it’s practical. I’m looking for places to take colleagues on lunch breaks and seeking convenient services on my way home from work, such as grabbing a gallon of milk or picking up the dry cleaning.”

Crabtree says she’s a big fan of mixing the old with the new as a revitalized downtown Topeka begins to take shape. She said it’s everyone’s responsibility to keep the momentum going.

“I’m thrilled about the new downtown plaza development and the pocket parks along Kansas Avenue, but I’m most excited that we’re giving the State Theatre of Kansas — the Jayhawk Theatre — the attention it deserves,” she says. “Neighboring cities have beautiful, historic theaters that add a wonderful ambiance to live shows. I’m ready to see that happen in downtown Topeka.”

— PHIL ANDERSON

THAD ALLTON/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Brittany Stiffler Crabtree believes if businesses keep growing, downtown Topeka will grow along with them.

The Topeka Capital-Journal | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | 11C

Ashley Charest 2017 DOWNTOWN TOPEKA’S RISING LEADERS

GREATER TOPEKA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

PRESENTED BY THE NEW

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Like many young professionals who call Topeka home, Ashley Charest came to the capital city because of Washburn University.

She said she “fell in love with Topeka” on her first college visit and decided to make the capital city her home, calling it one of the best decisions she ever made.

Charest, a 39-year-old native of Lincolnville, said that until 2010, she had “almost zero” connection to downtown.

That’s when her former employer moved the business office from S.W. 29th and Wanamaker to S.W. 8th and Jackson.

“In all candor, I was not excited about the move,” Charest said, “but as the government and private businesses begin to support a revitalization, and we saw the great things to come, I came to find myself supporting the area and coming to it outside of work hours.”

Charest continues to work downtown as vice president of resource development for the Greater Topeka Chamber of Commerce. She says she envisions downtown becoming a place that will offer something for everyone.

“Whether that is the new college graduate hanging at a pub, families enjoying the pocket parks and grabbing a bite to eat, or everyone coming down for a festival,” she said, “I just want to see all Topekans enjoying our downtown in whatever way is best for them, and I think in three years, we’ll see just that.”

— PHIL ANDERSON

CHRIS NEAL/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Ashley Charest says people are now enjoying Topeka’s downtown during lunch, after work and on the weekends. “I think people are the best recent enhancement,” she says.

Missy Lackey 2017 DOWNTOWN TOPEKA’S RISING LEADERS PRESENTED BY THE NEW

THAD ALLTON/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Missy Lackey envisions downtown Topeka with a vibe that appeals to young professionals and Washburn University students.

U.S. BANK

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Missy Lackey’s career took her away from Topeka, then brought her back again.

She’s glad it did.

Lackey, 36, a Coffeyville native, came to Topeka in 2003 to study accounting at Washburn University. She began working at U.S. Bank during the day while taking classes at night.

Lackey left Topeka in 2009 to pursue a growth opportunity with the bank, then returned to Topeka about three years ago, still with the bank. Her office with U.S. Bank is in downtown Topeka.

Since moving back in 2014, Lackey has been active on Heartland Visioning’s steering committee, focused on improving Topeka’s dynamic core, including downtown, the riverfront and NOTO. “I’m also involved in financing projects in our downtown area,” she said. “I believe these projects are crucial to the continued evolution of downtown and the continued vibrancy of the area.”

What stands out most to Lackey is a new energy in the capital city.

“We noticed when we moved back to Topeka in 2014 that something was different,” she said. “I really think it was the optimism. Topeka has momentum.”

She said she wants to see downtown develop a “young vibe,” with activities and businesses appealing to young professionals and Washburn students: “I want our downtown to be the place people go to, because they know there will be something fun going on.”

— PHIL ANDERSON

12C | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | The Topeka Capital-Journal

Chris Schultz 2017 DOWNTOWN TOPEKA’S RISING LEADERS PRESENTED BY THE NEW

FIELD OF GREENS

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Chris Schultz’s downtown businesses have survived a fire and flooding.

Though he’s experienced ups and downs, Schultz said he will still stand in front of people and tell them downtown is something to believe in.

It’s a place to gather, a place that tells our story and a place to celebrate, and there’s a huge future in that, the native Topekan said.

In 2002, Schultz opened Field of Greens. Though some people thought he was crazy to open a restaurant downtown, Schultz thought of it as “build it and they will come.” With ingenuity and community support, the establishment survived. In 2006, Schultz opened The Break Room, an entertainment and performance space next door to the eatery, which integrated his Washburn University degree in theater.

Schultz faced setbacks when a December 2016 fire damaged both of the businesses. Flooding, which Schultz believes was caused by construction on Kansas Avenue, has also caused problems.

Though the setbacks have been a challenge, Schultz remains excited about the seeds being planted downtown.

Schultz also has his bases covered as a board member of Downtown Topeka Inc., ARTSConnect and the Shawnee County Historical Society. He’s the dining and retail committee chairman with DTI. He said he wishes people who have a difficult time feeling pride in the community would get involved.

— KATIE MOORE

THAD ALLTON/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Chris Schultz owns Field of Greens and The Break Room in the Tinkham Veale Building at 909 and 911 S. Kansas Ave.

Linda Kehres 2017 DOWNTOWN TOPEKA’S RISING LEADERS PRESENTED BY THE NEW

CHRIS NEAL/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Linda Kehres hopes that free downtown events will provide entertainment options for the clients she serves as executive director of downtown nonprofit Let’s Help.

LET’S HELP

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Linda Kehres hopes that downtown improvements will help the community — including the working poor.

Free entertainment and free family activities could be beneficial for her Let’s Help clients.

It would be wonderful for those we work with to have something to look forward to at the end of the week, she said.

The organization, at 200 S. Kansas Ave., serves many individuals who live in the area, making downtown events accessible.

As a member of Leadership Greater Topeka, Kehres has had an opportunity to learn about what’s in the works downtown and the strategies that have been implemented to revitalize the area.

“This insider look has given me the chance to become acquainted with some of the folks making dreams come true,” Kehres said. “I have shared my experience with others and take an active role in helping build excitement about the great things occurring in downtown Topeka.”

She’s particularly impressed by the collaboration between different groups and by how many parties have been brought to the table for input. The more perspectives, the greater the effect.

“It’s exciting to see the creative synergy coming together,” Kehres said.

Ultimately Kehres believes that synergy will enhance the community’s energy and pride.

— KATIE MOORE

The Topeka Capital-Journal | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | 13C

David Heit 2017 DOWNTOWN TOPEKA’S RISING LEADERS PRESENTED BY THE NEW

TEVIS ARCHITECTS

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Architect David Heit has had a hand in developing — and preserving — several downtown buildings.

Currently, he’s designing lofts to occupy the second and third floors of 718 S. Kansas Ave. “As an architect, it is fun to bring a particular vision of urban living to fruition,” Heit said.

Clients he’s worked with “have a vision for downtown and the courage to turn their ideas into reality,” he said.

Heit also is working on a project to expand the downtown BP station and serves as a member of the Topeka Landmarks Commission.

“I think it important to safeguard the built heritage that visually tells Topeka’s history and makes Topeka’s downtown unique, but we must also allow buildings to continue to evolve and remain relevant within the community,” Heit said. “Balancing past and present is an interesting challenge.”

Historic tax credits provide a big economic boost to renovating buildings, he added.

Heit wants to see downtown become the core of the city, a place where families from all of Topeka’s neighborhoods come to spend time and attend events.

“I hope the community can maintain the current momentum we have and downtown becomes a dynamic, diverse district with residents, local shopping and great local dining,” he said. “I hope it becomes the place where all segments of our community want to come to socialize and come together as one Topeka.”

— KATIE MOORE

Kathleen Heit 2017 DOWNTOWN TOPEKA’S RISING LEADERS PRESENTED BY THE NEW

U.S. BANK

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As a little kid, Kathleen Heit would come downtown to visit her dad while he was working. It’s where Heit later began her career in the financial industry and reconnected with many of Topeka’s leaders when she moved back to Topeka in 2007.

THAD ALLTON/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

For David and Kathleen Heit, with 2-year-old Morgan, downtown means family, community and career opportunities.

Now she brings her three children downtown to check out festivals, attend First Friday Art Walks and explore the pocket parks that line Kansas Avenue.

Two-year-old Morgan particularly enjoys tossing pennies in the fountains and climbing on the Burlington Northern Santa Fe train.

“Our connection to downtown comes back to family, community and great career opportunities,” Heit said. “Downtown To-

peka is a large part of our past, present and future. We spend our money downtown — we bank downtown, eat, drink and shop downtown. We come downtown for all the events and entertainment. We are clients, customers, service providers, professionals and parking meter violators.”

Heit has been involved with the Downtown Rotary Club, YWCA, Downtown Topeka Inc. and ARTSConnect. It’s with ARTSConnect that Heit feels she has the

most visible impact downtown, with the organization’s commitment to supporting arts-related businesses on Kansas Avenue, activities and events.

She’s also been able to invest in downtown development through her employer, U.S. Bank.

“The corporate leadership has been remarkable, and I have been very proud to be involved,” Heit said.

— KATIE MOORE

Bryan Falk 2017 DOWNTOWN TOPEKA’S RISING LEADERS PRESENTED BY THE NEW

THAD ALLTON/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Architect Brian Falk is working on a project that will light up the water tower at 11th and S. Kansas, making colorful displays visible from Interstate 70.

FALK ARCHITECTS

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Bryan Falk has been involved in downtown improvements for about a decade, and in April 2016, he opened Falk Architects in the downtown district.

His company has worked on design concepts for downtown loft apartments, modifications to the Westar building and renovation work at the county courthouse and city hall.

“I’m a believer that the downtown of a community is its heart, and a community needs a thriving downtown to be healthy,” he said.

For the last two years, Falk also has served on Topeka’s Landmarks Commission, which reviews and approves modifications to historic downtown properties.

“If we want to create a downtown that is truly unique, it will involve protecting and utilizing the existing historic fabric,” he said.

One existing structure Falk is enhancing is the water tower at 11th and S. Kansas Ave. “It’s a really neat structure,” he said.

Though the tower itself won’t change much, Falk hopes that a lighting project will create an eye-catching site that attracts people driving on Interstate 70 to stop and check out downtown’s offerings.

The LED lights are programmable, so the colorful displays can change. The tower will be bathed in lights that reflect holidays and events, from red and green during Christmastime to red and blue when there’s a major University of Kansas basketball game.

— KATIE MOORE

Ramin Mahmoudian 2017 DOWNTOWN TOPEKA’S RISING LEADERS PRESENTED BY THE NEW

ARCHITECT ONE

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When Ramin Mahmoudian sees people using the Westar pocket park, it gives him a lot of pride.

Mahmoudian had a hand in the park’s design.

“The solar panels address a sustainable future, and the form is aesthetically pleasing,” he said.

For more than two years, he’s also worked on the 720 S. Kansas Ave. space, collaborating with the owners, city officials, contractors, utility companies and colleagues at downtown firm Architect One. Mahmoudian said he’s excited for the downtown vision to become a reality. Even though it’s physically only a part of the city, it’s a reflection of the whole, he said.

While a huge amount of time and money has already been invested, attitudes in the city haven’t caught up yet. In a few years, the perception of what Topeka is will be redefined and rival Massachusetts Street in downtown Lawrence, he said.

“I’m proud to be a part of moving Topeka in this direction,” he said.

One component Mahmoudian supports is making S. Kansas Avenue pedestrian friendly.

Ideally, it would be closed to vehicular traffic at least one weekend a month for events. Doing so will take into consideration a flourishing pedestrian culture and promote alternative means of transportation.

Mahmoudian also is a member of the Downtown Rotary Club, where’s he has volunteered on awareness initiatives and youth projects.

— KATIE MOORE

CHRIS NEAL/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Ramin Mahmoudian was involved in the Westar pocket park’s design process and seeing people using the finished product brings him a sense of pride.

14C | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | The Topeka Capital-Journal

Brittany JoRae’ 2017 DOWNTOWN TOPEKA’S RISING LEADERS PRESENTED BY THE NEW

CHRIS NEAL/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Business owner and photographer Brittany JoRae’ is dedicated to bringing diverse voices into conversations about downtown Topeka’s direction.

FREEDOM FOTOGRAFIX

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Brittany JoRae’ believes that reaching people in all parts of the city and bringing their voices into dialogues about downtown is essential to its success.

The Highland Park High School graduate is working with Heartland Visioning initiatives to increase diversity.

“Having diversity downtown is important because it allows for people from different backgrounds and different mindsets to see we all have an opportunity for success — we all have a place in our community,” JoRae’ said. “We may be different, but when we choose to come together we show that we are one.”

JoRae’s commitment to downtown deepened in October 2016, when she established a photography studio at 112 S.E. 8th Ave. Topeka has a lot of “artistic souls,” she said, but not enough platforms. One way to rectify that is through the downtown plaza. It will be a site to showcase talent and a place where organizations and individuals can interact, sharing resources and opportunities. By developing the artistic world, Topeka will better retain its young people, JoRae’ said.

“Being the fully functioning center of Topeka is so vital. We are pumping our blood back into the heart of our city,” JoRae’ said. “Once the heart is steadily beating again, the life blood will begin to flow outward, strengthening the body — and the people are the body.”

— KATIE MOORE

Caleb Asher 2017 DOWNTOWN TOPEKA’S RISING LEADERS PRESENTED BY THE NEW

SPROUT COMMUNICATIONS

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Having grown up in a small town, Caleb Asher understands that the downtown corridor is the heart of a community.

So when he was looking for a location — one with a lot of character — for his marketing firm Sprout Communications, Asher said he knew downtown would be the best place to put down his business roots.

In January 2016, he purchased 728 S. Kansas Ave. and filled the retail space with Cashmere Popcorn.

The second floor, which had been empty for about 30 years and is undergoing renovations, will house Sprout Communications.

“We’ll be returning the windows to their original size and look forward to returning vintage signage to the upper level of the building to mark our arrival downtown,” Asher said.

Much of the marketing firm’s work is dedicated to enhancing downtown’s image with such clients as Clayton Financial and First United Methodist Church. Asher also has developed a marketing plan for 712 Innovations, an organization he describes as an important economic development tool that fosters an “entrepreneurial ecosystem.”

Asher said it just makes sense to grow the downtown district and that an active, vibrant corridor should extend north through NOTO to Garfield Park, with each of the districts having distinct attributes.

In addition to being involved with the Chamber of Commerce and Downtown Topeka Inc., Asher is also the NOTO Arts District’s board president-elect.

— KATIE MOORE

THAD ALLTON/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Caleb Asher is restoring the second floor of 728 S. Kansas Ave., which had been empty for about 30 years. His company Sprout Communications will move into the space once it’s renovated.

The Topeka Capital-Journal | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | 15C

Cassandra Taylor 2017 DOWNTOWN TOPEKA’S RISING LEADERS PRESENTED BY THE NEW

ARCHITECT ONE

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When seventh-generation Topekan Cassandra Taylor was growing up, she painted a nostalgic picture of downtown Topeka’s past, with soda shops, a candy store and department stores.

As an architect, Taylor now has a hand in the future of downtown and what it will transform into.

As groups initiated a push for revitalization efforts about five years ago, Taylor said the effort struck a chord with her.

“It’s a game changer for Topeka,” she said.

Then in 2013, Architect One moved its office downtown.

“I love the energy downtown Topeka has during the daytime. It really helped upgrade our office culture — going from driving everywhere, to walking and enjoying the outdoors and downtown energy daily,” Taylor said.

The firm has been heavily involved in the process, working on at least 10 projects including the Cyrus Hotel, several restaurants, loft apartments, and retail and office spaces. It also collaborated with Downtown Topeka Inc., GO Topeka and Heartland Visioning.

Taylor said community involvement combined with private investment and backing has put downtown’s trajectory on the right path.

“I believe downtown Topeka will have transformed from a place Topeka residents come to work and attend the occasional event to a destination place for business, leisure and special-event activities for the entire region,” Taylor said.

— KATIE MOORE

THAD ALLTON/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

When Architect One relocated downtown, Cassandra Taylor said it upgraded the company’s culture. The firm is working on multiple projects in downtown Topeka.

Brett Klausman 2017 DOWNTOWN TOPEKA’S RISING LEADERS PRESENTED BY THE NEW

CHRIS NEAL/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Brett Klausman is a member of the Downtown Topeka Foundation and is involved with developing several properties, including the former AT&T building at 823 S.E. Quincy, as part of Midwest Health.

MIDWEST HEALTH

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Brett Klausman believes that strong public-private partnerships are key in driving downtown Topeka in the direction it needs to go.

As part of the Downtown Topeka Foundation, Klausman had a hand in the pocket parks coming to fruition, a process that he said was fun to watch. Now the focus has shifted to development and funding for the plaza.

“The people at the table really care about this community and want the best for its residents,” the native Topekan said.

As part of Midwest Health, Klausman is helping develop and manage several downtown properties, including the former AT&T building at 823 S.E. Quincy.

Concepts for transforming the property, which has views of the Kansas Capitol, into residences are in their infancy, but the project is a priority, Klausman said.

“There is definite momentum in downtown, and I really think this is our opportunity to see it become a reality,” he said.

A key factor in that revitalization is public-private partnerships, including committed elected officials, investors and community members.

Private developers take risks and need backing to get projects off the ground, Klausman said.

Recent public investment in infrastructure was necessary to move downtown forward, he said.

“I really hope that our elected leaders continue to see the value in a strong downtown and continue to support it,” Klausman said.

— KATIE MOORE

16C | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | The Topeka Capital-Journal

The Topeka Capital-Journal | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | 1D

D O W N T O W N :

E X P A N D I N G

T H E

C O R E

FOOD AND FUN Heartland Café Uptown

325 S. Kansas Ave. Appraisal records: This building was constructed in 1920.

Luis’ Place

DINING Madison Street Diner/Maddie’s and Uncle’s Bo’s Blues Bar

420 S.E. 6th ave.

Former President Ronald Reagan and Sen. Bob Dole are among dignitaries who have stayed at the Ramada Hotel and Convention Center, where these businesses are.

Shana Cake 435 S. Kansas Ave. This gluten-free restaurant offers allergy-friendly breads and treats.

RowHouse Restaurant

515 S.W. Van Buren Owner and chef Greg Fox transformed this oncedilapidated historic site into a fine dining venue.

The buildings were constructed in 1880.

Jayhawk Corner Café

700 S.W. Jackson, Lobby Jayhawk Tower, where this business is, has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1982.

Jayhawk Tower was built in 1930.

The Celtic Fox 118 S.W. 8th Ave As Topeka’s only Irish pub, The Celtic Fox draws large crowds on St. Patrick’s Day.

Top of the Tower Club 534 S. Kansas Ave., No. 1430 On a clear day, visibility is more than 40 miles from here.

Schlotzky’s

Wendy’s

718 S. Kansas Ave. Jersey Mike’s opened its second shop at this location in 2005, after opening its first in 2003 at 2121 S.W. Wanamkaer Road.

Classic Bean Downtown

Hazel Hill Chocolate 724 S. Kansas Ave. Hazel Hill created and presented a special platter of treats to first lady Michelle Obama during her 2014 visit to Topeka.

722 S. Kansas Ave. This building was purchased in 1999

by Juliann Earl, who previously operated a restaurant and coffee shop with the same name at 628 S. Kansas Ave.

Cashmere GOURMENT Popcorn

728 S. Kansas Ave. This family-owned business, once a pop-up store, moved to its permanent location a couple of years ago.

Lupita’s

728 S. W. Topeka Blvd.

This building was constructed in 1980 and remodeled in 1992.

Jersey Mike’s Subs

607 S. Kansas Ave. This building was constructed in 1910 and has been home to Schlotzky’s since 1981.

732 S. Kansas Ave. Members of Topeka’s Munoz family, which immigrated here from Mexico, have operated this restaurant since 1995.

Juli’s Coffee & Bistro

Field of Greens

110 S.E. 8th Ave. Juli’s is located in the Thacher Building, 110 S.E. 8th, which has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 1975.

909 S. Kansas Ave. Construction began in 1887 on the structure that houses this restaurant — the Tinkham-Veale Building, 909-911 S. Kansas Ave., which has been on the National Register of Historic Places since 2006.

HHB BBQ

Subway

935 S. Kansas Ave. A 2003 Topeka CapitalJournal article told of how “sandwich guru” Michael Fulton, then employed at this location, made a special effort to keep the lines of customers moving.

906 S. Kansas Ave. HHB owner Edward Moege moved his business to this site after a fire in January 2015 significantly damaged his previous location at 720 S. Kansas Ave.

Globe Indian Cuisine

117 S.E. 10th ave.

This building was constructed in 1930.

Daylight Donuts

Arturo’s Mexican Restaurant

Pizza Hut

1001 S.E. Quincy This eatery opened in December 2013 at a place where other businesses have come and gone through the years.

105 S.E. 10th Ave. The building was the site from 2003 to 2005 of Don Julio’s Mexican Restaurant, and housed a Taco Tico before that.

500 S.W. 10th ave.

This property’s appraised value is $588,500. The building was constructed in 1940.

Hanover Pancake House

1034 S. Kansas Ave. This building was constructed in 1969 and has been owned since 1997 by Gray Horse Farms.

El Centenario

1306 S. Kansas Ave. The word “Centenario” in this restaurant’s name translates into “relating to a period of 100 years” in Spanish, Italian and Portugese.

Golden Dragon

1101 S. Kansas Ave. This building was constructed in 1974 and opened that year as a Burger King restaurant.

DOWNTOWN

435 S. Kansas Ave. This restaurant was opened in January 2015 by owner and chef Luis Guillen, who previously operated New City Café.

S E C T I O N 4 O F 4

McDonald’s

1100 S. Kansas Ave. This property has been the site of a McDonald’s Restaurant since 1968. The current building was constructed in 1985.

2D | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | The Topeka Capital-Journal

Experience the flavor in NOTO Halfway through his first year in the NOTO Arts District, Faces

by Mayfield owner George Mayfield explains 2017 has definitely been a learning experience.

Address: “Topeka’s a little 802 N. Kansas Ave. different,” Mayfield Hours: said. “It’s more a 11 a.m. to 1 a.m. laid-back situa(approximately) tion than we were Thursday through anticipating. When Saturday we opened, we were aiming for a more mature crowd, 35 and older — a place you can dress up a little.”

Within a few months, Mayfield noticed that while the white-collar workers of Topeka enjoy going out after work, they don’t necessarily want to stay dressed in their business-casual attire.

“At first, we said no tennis shoes allowed, none of the hat-turned-backward, saggy pants-type. We wanted a more mature crowd. … But really we’ve adapted, and most of the people that come in are

good people, and they can wear jeans and tennis shoes. We just wanted a more respectful crowd.”

Mayfield said the restaurant books bands every Saturday, often features a musician at lunch and offers karaoke every Thursday night.

Beginning in May, Faces expanded its hours to 11 a.m. until close Thursday through Saturday, instead of shutting its doors between the lunch and dinner rush. Mayfield said kitchen hours are flexible, closing at 9 or 10 p.m. depending on the crowd. It also began a happy hour from 4 to 7 p.m. to encourage more patrons to visit after work.

Some of its more popular dishes are finger foods, loaded nachos, Italian sausage, hamburger sliders and its lunch dishes, such as gumbo and lasagna. With the summer beginning, Mayfield said Faces will start tailoring its menu to a lighter fare, including soup and sandwiches.

“It’s really been a pleasure so far working with the downtown merchants,” Mayfield said. “They’re so optimistic about NOTO and what it could be, and they really work hard to bring art, food and a thriving nightlife to the area, but it’s been a hard road.”

Since June 2013, NOTO Burrito has served as the “funky burrito place” of Topeka, according to owner Jenny Torrence.

Torrence, who has traveled Address: the country to see 822 N. Kansas Ave. what works and Hours: what doesn’t, said 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the end of the Tuesday through day, every destinaSaturday tion city has a cool burrito joint.

The first two years were tough, Torrence says. Starting not one but three businesses in NOTO was never her plan.

Her other businesses are Serendipity and Pinkadilly.

“I had purchased the buildings, but when I purchased them they had renters.

But basically renters wouldn’t keep their doors open, so they would fail, and I had a mortgage to pay. So I had to get some-

thing done, and the only one I could depend on was myself. So it was based out of a need,” Torrence explained.

Torrence wishes she could say she was a trendsetter who saw an opportunity and jumped on it, but she admits she didn’t possess the foresight.

NOTO Burrito embraces a cool community vibe. With tin walls and concrete floors, the restaurant pops with brightly colored logos and a chalkboard menu.

NOTO Burrito formerly shared the space with Bunker Coffee Co. For the extreme taco enthusiast, coffee and Mexican food makes the perfect quirky pair.

Favorites vary, but Torrence said overall there are a couple of mainstays.

“Probably our No. 1 burrito is the Planting Peace and Love, and I did that in honor of the Equality House, just to bring awareness to it. It’s two meats.

They can both be the same because we don’t judge, or you can mix them up.”

The Serendipitio, the next most popular, is made of rice, black beans, ground beef, chalula aioli, fried onions, queso and cheese.

FACES BY ELD MAYFI

NOTO O T BURRI

FOOD ON THE MOVE

— SAVANNA MAUE

— SAVANNA MAUE

CHRIS NEAL/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Owner George Mayfield stands in front of a wall of artwork at Faces by Mayfield, 802 N. Kansas Ave.

CHRIS NEAL/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Jenny Torrence holds a burrito at her Mexican restaurant, NOTO Burrito, at 822 N. Kansas Ave., in the NOTO Arts District.

At The Norsemen Brewing Co., a common concern was too many beers, with no food, made for a rough morning.

Crisis solved.

Beginning shortly after the new year, Norsemen owners began partnering with KB’s Smokehouse, a food truck and catering company owned by Karen Glotzbach.

Glotzbach is a retired firefighter and has been perfecting her BBQ recipes for the past 15 years.

She met Norsemen owners Jared and Emily Rudy and Adam and Melissa Rosdahl at the Lawrence Brewers Guild when they were “amateur brewers,” as Glotzbach called them.

Glotzbach installed a kitchenette in the back of Norsemen but still does the majority of her meal prep at home or in her food truck. She is set up Tuesday through Saturday from 5 to FOOD TRUCK continues on 4D

CHRIS NEAL/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Karen Glotzbach stands with her food truck outside The Norsemen Brewing Company in North Topeka.

The Wheel Barrel celebrated its first successful year in the spring, joining the steady stream of businesses moving into the NOTO Arts DisAddress: 925 N. Kansas Ave. trict. It’s owned

by Jon and JenHours: nifer Bohlander.

11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

While Jennifer Tuesday through manages their Thursday; 11 a.m. to midnight Friday- tattoo shop, MaSaturday; 10 a.m. to tryoshka Tattoo, Jon’s baby is the 3 p.m. Sunday restaurant.

Jon works full time as a machinist, but every spare moment he’s not with his family is spent at 925 N. Kansas Ave. When asked why a machinist would be interested in switching gears, Jon answered, “Because we’re insane,” then laughed.

Neither of the Bohlanders had experience in food management, but Jon said they learned quickly.

“Our original plan was two employees, a bartender and a cook, with a

THE L WHEE L BARRE

self-serve window, but almost immediately we realized that wasn’t going to work, because people want full service. So we had to hire a bunch of people and change our model,” he said.

The restaurant offers a full bar and is based around gourmet grilled cheeses, an idea they picked up in Austin, Texas. With options like The Hangover, made with smoked gouda, cheddar, bacon and two fried eggs, and The Monte Cristo, which includes creamy brie and Swiss, ham and turkey, blackberry jelly and a dusting of powdered sugar, its sandwiches far exceed the average Kraft slices on white bread.

Jon said they decided to seize an opportunity in moving to the arts district. Matryoshka had already opened and their daughter had gone away to school, so they decided to “go for it.”

Jon said he loves the chaos.

“It’s just a lot of fun. You meet a lot of cool people, the staff and the customers — especially on a First Friday, the whole rush of trying to keep up, make sure everybody is served right,” Jon said. “Once we came out of the slow period in January, I felt good, I felt like there was some momentum, so I feel really good about the next year.”

— SAVANNA MAUE

CHRIS NEAL/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Jon Bohlander leans on the penny-top bar he created at his restaurant, The Wheel Barrel, at 925 N. Kansas Ave.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 4D

The Topeka Capital-Journal | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | 3D

4D | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | The Topeka Capital-Journal

Sculpture park project ongoing, beginning consultation

By Savanna Maue

savanna.maue@cjonline.com

Leaders of the NOTO Arts District made a splash in December when they announced plans to turn the parking lot across from the NOTO Arts Center, 922 N. Kansas Ave., into a sculpture park.

They since have hired a new executive director, Ingrid Pearson, and are finalizing plans and committees, as well as adding new businesses to fill the storefronts along N. Kansas Ave. In December, The Topeka Capital-Journal reported Glenn and Claire Swogger’s Redbud Foundation had purchased the vacant lot across from the NOTO Arts Center and the lot would be home to a colorful sculpture park showcasing local musicians and honoring the band Kansas. The

foundation will provide financial support for staffing and operations of the NOTO Arts Center for three years, the foundation and arts center announced.

The arts district committee had taken plans from consulting agencies LaMotte West in Lake Oswego, Ore., and Chicagobased planning and design firm The Lakota Group to create an idea that reflected what the stakeholders and residents of Topeka wanted to see in the arts district.

“That is a concept design, so now we figure out what we can really do,” said NOTO Arts District co-founder Anita Wolgast of the drawings for the sculpture park. “We know parameters. It needs to have a bandshell. We want interactive for children. We want recognition of the band Kansas, and my dream is to have bronze sculptures of them, but we need a lot of

money to do that.”

Pearson said plans are tentative. The only solidified aspects are the sculpture park will be called Redbud Gardens and contain redbud trees.

The Shawnee County Parks and Recreation Department has offered to assist NOTO’s design committee chairwoman Ann Palmer and committee member Bryan Falk, of Falk Architects, in developing the plans for the park, Pearson said.

Schmidt, Beck & Boyd Engineering is surveying the plot.

Rachel Meyer, partnership development coordinator for Shawnee County Parks and Recreation, said the alley between Stutzman Leather Shoppe and The Norsemen Brewery Co. and Veterans Park will receive attention in the county’s facility and land use management plan for 2017.

“Some ideas reviewed were a rope climbing play structure at the north end of the parking lot, and seating nearby and open space on the other side of the bridge.

We have a committee of SNCO Parks + Recreation employees in place that helps determine park improvements based on public input,” Meyer said via email. “So no final plan for the county-owned property will be released until next year. Funding sources and possible sponsors will also need to be identified before any approved project construction begins.”

Meyer said the next step would be Shawnee County’s park planner meeting with NOTO’s landscape architect to find out what kind of design concepts they want to finalize.

“We know it’s important, and we’re happy to get the ball rolling,” she said.

Experience the flavor in NOTO (continued from page 2D)

Walking into Bradley’s, customers are often welcomed with the smell of a fresh-baked pie. It’s what the cafe is known for, and the quality is so great it’s kept people Address: coming back for 11 844 N. Kansas Ave. years.

Hours: In February 2006, 6 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Richard Bradley Monday; 6 a.m.

Jennings opened - 8 p.m. Tuesday Bradley’s at the through Saturday; corner of N. Kansas and 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. and N.E. Laurent St. Sunday It was present before the NOTO district formed and has since become a staple.

EY’S L D A R B R CORNE CAFE

While business was slow before the NOTO Arts District was established, the store had returning customers and a reputation in the Topeka community. Once First Friday Art Walks began, foot traffic increased, bringing in more customers to the business. The wait staff says the number of regulars has increased in the past seven years.

Bradley’s has nearly 40 different pies in various cases near the register, from coconut to strawberry to its famous sour cream raisin.

Coconut is definitely the crowd favorite, and it takes about four pies daily to fulfill the city’s cravings.

There’s a hometown feel to Bradley’s — even if you’re a first-time customer — like you already know what you’re going to find on the menu, and you know it’s going to be good.

And what goes better with diner food than a slice of homemade pie?

— SAVANNA MAUE

CHRIS NEAL/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

A few pies sit on a table at Bradley’s Corner Cafe.

Food truck: Smoked meatloaf, ribs popular picks at KB’s Smokehouse Continued from 2D 8 p.m., and once you try her famous smoked meatloaf sandwich, you’ll keep coming back.

“I came up with a smoked meatloaf that seems to have just taken people by storm,” Glotzbach said. “I really have

a lot of people coming in telling me that once they’ve had it that they love it more than their mother’s or that they usually don’t like meatloaf, but they like mine.”

Glotzbach explained the secret is combining jalapeno and cream cheese with her homemade rub, then wrapping

it in bacon and putting it on the smoker for two to four hours.

Another favorite is ribs. From the response at the NOTO First Friday events, though, all her dishes appear popular.

“I went through about 200 pounds of meat on First Friday. That was between pork, ribs, my smoked meatloaf

and the chicken wings that I do,” she said.

The arrangement with Norsemen isn’t permanent, Glotzbach said, but she feels it’s going well. The combination of brews and brisket complement each other — and she doesn’t see that changing anytime soon.

The Topeka Capital-Journal | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | 5D

‘Ragtag’ NOTO Anonymous crew keeps arts district quirky, clean

By Justin Wingerter

justin.wingerter@cjonline.com

CHRIS NEAL/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Travis Garwood paints a storefront in the NOTO Arts District.

CHRIS NEAL/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

From right, Courtney Holthaus, Kaylee Havenstein and Megan Knopp paint a wall at the corner of N. Kansas Ave. and N.E. Laurent St. during a NOTO cleanup effort.

On a cool, windy morning in late April, three Alpha Phi sorority members painted the chipped bricks of a prison-gray wall on N. Kansas Ave. “They said to paint random bricks, so that’s what we’re doing,” Megan Knopp said with a shrug as she laid a highlighter green coat on the south wall of Kaw River Rustics.

The sorority girls had volunteered hours of their time to benefit NOTO Anonymous, a loose band of residents, artists and altruists who believe in this heterogeneous row of art galleries, niche shops, bars and restaurants that was once a seedy strip of sordid and boarded-up properties.

Amy “Boogie-Momma” Johnston, an eclectic resident of this eclectic arts district, bounced between volunteers spread across three blocks of N. Kansas Ave., a smile on her face. It was she who had bought the bright paint that now sticks to the once-shabby wall of Kaw River Rustics.

“We just wanted to do something to help the district,” she said matter-of-factly.

Other entertainment districts in the city have customers. A lucky few even have supporters. NOTO, however, has believers, people who have willed into existence this increasingly popular destination from the ruins.

Some vacant buildings remain. Up the block from Kaw River Rustics, Sean Frost painted pink an empty building near the northern end of NOTO. It would be the site of a third mural on the building, turning a possible eyesore into another brilliant backdrop.

“We’re just happy to help with the vibrancy of the district,” he said.

As he talked, a NOTO patron shouted his support from a passing pickup. A few minutes later, Stella Penry walked over to thank the volunteers. She has owned Generations Antiques across the street since 2003. Decades ago, her parents owned a doughnut shop one block to the south.

“We’re just a ragtag crew that has thrown our money together,” Frost said.

He was referring to NOTO Anonymous but could also be describing NOTO business owners. There are no chain stores in the arts district, only small-business owners, many of whom cobbled together cash to pay homage to a hobby — antiques, painting, beer. Recognizing that, NOTO Anonymous spends a day each year painting, planting flowers and moving furniture for shopkeeps.

“We just try to do the things the NOTO Arts

CHRIS NEAL/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

From right, Emily Bogolin, Kori Meyer and Allee Iverson pick up piles of old plants during a NOTO cleanup effort.

District doesn’t have time for,” said Lindsey Martin as she pulls off gardening gloves and takes a break from moving soil in the 900 block of N. Kansas Ave. Peering south down three blocks, she points to the small trios and quartets of volunteers elsewhere in NOTO. It’s a smaller group than in prior years, she says, probably about 15 people. There were almost 40 last year.

“The people who show up is hit and miss,” said Andrew Wiechen. There was a fundraiser 5K race that morning that likely cost them a few volunteers.

Wiechen co-founded NOTO Anonymous in 2014. Many of the college-age volunteers, he says, have never been to NOTO. One of the Alpha Phi members said she had never been to the district before that day.

“We were trying to find out what would get more people down here, aside from on First Fridays,” Wiechen said, reflecting on the origins of NOTO Anonymous.

As he spoke, two volunteers picked up trash in a grassy lot between Norsemen Brewing Company and Stutzman Leather Shoppe across the avenue. NOTO Anonymous had caught a break to bolster its low turnout: Keep America Beautiful was coincidentally hosting a cleanup event the same morning.

Noticing this, a NOTO Anonymous volunteer shrugged her shoulders, smiled and said, “I guess it’s another good day to be in NOTO.”

6D | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | The Topeka Capital-Journal

Downtown restaurants offer diversity of styles, flavors pieces for serving.

The naan is just the tip of the authentic cuisine iceberg, Singh’s restaurant also offers classic favorites such as meat samosas, the equivalent of meat-filled empanadas; Chicken Tandoori, chicken marinated in a spicy yogurt baked on skewers in the tandoor; Special Biryani, basmati rice cooked with fresh shrimp, lamb tikka, chicken tikka, vegetables, nuts, raisins, spices and cilantro; and super-spicy Chicken Vindaloo, boneless pieces of chicken cooked with potatoes in a special hot tangy sauce.

By Savanna Maue

savanna.maue@cjonline.com

Lupita’s Mexican Restaurant

Address: 732 S. Kansas Ave. Hours: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 5 to 8 p.m. Monday through Wednesday; 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 5 to 9 p.m. Thursday through Saturday For 22 years, Lupita’s has been the staple of authentic Mexican cuisine downtown.

Owner Luis Fernando Muñoz took over the business after his mother and brother died.

Muñoz said Lupita’s stands as a testament to his mother and the amazing dishes she brought with her from Guanajuato, Mexico.

“All of the recipes are handmade. They’re all created by her,” Muñoz said. “When moving to the United States, it’s really important to everyone to represent where you came from. Everyone’s proud of their different regions and have to represent their state, and that’s what she did here.”

A traditional Guanajuato dish is huarache, which is similar to a tostada. It’s a thick, flat-fried corn tortilla topped with a choice of chicken, beef, tinga (shredded roast beef with onions, tomatoes and homemade red sauce), Al Pastor (diced pork with onions and pineapple), Papas Con Chorizo (potatoes and Mexican sausage) or Frijol y Queso (beans and cheese).

A few customer favorites are Monster Burrito, a 10-inch tortilla with rice, beans, chicken, beef, lettuce, tomato, sour cream and cheese; David Burrito, named after former manager and Muñoz’s deceased brother, David Muñoz, made of pork, rice and cheese; and Chili Con Carne, which Muñoz said was his father’s personal favorite, with chunks of pork in spicy red sauce served with rice and beans on a flour or corn tortilla.

Field of Greens

Address: 909 S. Kansas Ave. Hours: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. weekdays

CHRIS NEAL/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Luis Fernando Muñoz, the owner of Lupita’s Mexican Restaurant, 732 S. Kansas Ave., pauses to have his photo taken before delivering some entrees to a table.

Globe Indian Cuisine

Address: 117 S.E. 10th Ave. Hours: 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 4:30 to 9:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday Promoted as one of the only familyrun authentic Indian eateries, Amarpreet Singh’s Globe Indian Cuisine restaurant opened in November 2002. He said there was no Indian cuisine available in the area, and the spot developed a loyal customer base.

Singh said they get all types of people in his restaurant — different ethnicities, races and religions. He estimated nearly 90 percent of customers are repeats, including some who visit more than once a week.

In the back of the kitchen, Singh gives a

Even before Field of Greens became a reality in 2002, owner Chris Schultz’s mother, Diane Schultz, said she’s been involved in the restaurant.

Diane is the creator of the Field of Greens’ famous no-bake cookies, one of the many touches that mark the establishment’s individuality.

On their website, fogreens.com, the Schultz family said choosing their location in the heart of downtown Topeka was more important than the draw of heavier populated areas. Between their handpainted wall-hangings, garden-themed tablecloths and rustic-kitchen-style buffet lines, Field of Greens offers a quick and healthy lunch that brings its own style to downtown.

During a recent Wednesday lunch hour, Diane was busy. She hustled from table to table clearing dishes, stopping to wipe away stray lettuce on the buffet line and continuing to the kitchen to help prepare some of its made-to-order sandwiches and quesadillas.

Field of Greens offers salads, soups and spuds at the buffet. In addition to the no-bake cookies, the restaurant also has chicken, chicken club or cheese quesadillas and about a dozen different sandwiches, served with chips or its signature pasta salad, which Diane said is another customer favorite.

RowHouse Restaurant CHRIS NEAL/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Amarpreet Singh opened Globe Indian Cuisine in November 2002. The restaurant still uses the traditional tandoor, a clay-fired oven to cook its signature chicken tandoori. demonstration of the tandoor, a clay oven used for some of the most popular dishes.

With a few quick twists of his wrist, Singh unballs some naan, a leavened, oven-baked flatbread, and quickly slaps the

bread against the curved walls inside the oven. In a few minutes, the bread begins to bubble and brown. With a few deft moves, Singh uses a metal rod to peel the bread away, and then butters and cuts it into four

Address: 515 S.W. Van Buren St. Hours: 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday; 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday In 2007, owner Greg Fox began his first restaurant: the RowHouse Restaurant at 515 S.W. Van Buren St. Fox described the house-turned-restaurant as “magical,” and a home you have to see to believe. When he was searching for properties, he said he walked past the

The Topeka Capital-Journal | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | 7D

DTI: Attracting popular events essential to downtown growth

By Rick Peterson Jr.

richard.peterson@cjonline.com

CHRIS NEAL/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Diane Schultz, mother of owner Chris Schultz and longtime employee at Field of Greens, 909 S. Kansas Ave., cuts a quesadilla into quarters before serving it to some hungry customers at the downtown Topeka salad bar and boxed lunch provider.

CHRIS NEAL/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

A waiter displays one of the entrees on its way to a table at RowHouse Restaurant, 515 S.W. Van Buren St. RowHouse offers a rotating weekly menu, with specials that change with the seasons. house one afternoon on his way to the YMCA, went in to look around, and by the next morning had put in an offer.

“I was just drawn by the comfort of the house. It’s got these great windows on all four walls, which is really unique in a restaurant,” he said.

The RowHouse offers a rotating menu, with specialty dishes that change with the seasons.

Fox said it’s known for surprise courses and vegetarian dishes, which are always a weekly option.

Each week six courses are prepared, including three different entrees (vegetar-

ian option, seafood option and usually a beef entree), as well as soup, salad and three choices for dessert.

The house is cozy, with seven different dining rooms that can seat from two to 16 people. Fox said business has always been steady, and reservations are the norm.

“There’s never really been a huge shift in business, but I am anxious to see the changes that the city has been working on for some time now,” Fox said. “But I’ve always loved Topeka, I’ve never been one of those people who’ve been negative, I’ve always liked it as is.”

Downtown Topeka Inc. is always on the lookout for the next big event to show off redevelopment in the heart of the city.

Recent endeavors include car shows, concerts, food festivals and kid-friendly events that line the streets, helping to reinforce downtown Topeka’s growing reputation as an entertainment venue.

“On a daily basis, we hear people talk about, ‘Hey, let’s bring out events,’” said Michelle Stubblefield, DTI’s director of marketing and membership. “We get calls frequently about other organizations that want to take advantage of the excitement downtown and create an event.

“That’s what’s been exciting, and we get to see that conversation daily about how we can bring more things to Topeka and really bring excitement.”

Stubblefield said attracting popular events is essential to the growth of downtown, noting that people are more likely to frequent businesses there once they’re drawn to the area by a specific event.

“People are always wondering what’s going on with the redevelopment,” Stubblefield said. “What’s been exciting is having people come down and see the changes taking place, and stopping in to get coffee somewhere, sitting down and enjoying the pocket parks, or taking advantage of the new restaurants.”

DTI’s first major event of the year was the Bridge2Bridge 5-kilometer run on April 22.

Stubblefield said more than 200 people participated in the event, which crossed over the Kansas River on both the Topeka Boulevard and Kansas Avenue bridges. Ages of the participants ranged from 6 to 78, with proceeds going toward the more than 30 free events DTI hosts a year.

“That proved very successful, because it’s such a unique run,” she said.

One of downtown’s marquee events of the summer is 99.3’s Eagle Cruise Night, a classic car show, which was on May 6.

Car shows “give the opportunity for people to talk, hang out and enjoy something they truly love,” Stubble-

field said. “It’s a great way for people to come together and just enjoy each other’s time.”

Cruisin’ the Capital Car Show, set for Aug. 12, is also expected to bring in thousands.

“What’s interesting about that one is those who take part actually get to do a burnout right on the street as part of the event,” Stubblefield said. “That brings a lot of interest and a lot of excitement that most people just don’t get to take advantage of.”

For music and food lovers, Stubblefield recommended the Capital City Jazz and Food Truck Festival on Oct. 7.

“The past few years, that has been another huge exciting event, because again people get to have food, hang out, bring their lawn chairs for a free event,” Stubblefield said. “That’s the big thing … regardless of how much money you have, you can come down and enjoy your time and take in the sight and sounds and explore downtown.

“Our big emphasis in creating events is having things that are free.”

Stubblefield said the presence of food trucks is a big draw.

“We obviously have great food downtown,” Stubblefield said. “When it comes to an event, people also like to try something new. Between our events and Visit Topeka events, and just in general, food trucks are pretty popular, so we take advantage of that interest.”

Other popular events toward the end of the year include Boo It Downtown Candy Crawl on Oct. 26 and the Miracle on Kansas Avenue Parade on Nov. 25.

“I love the fact that downtown is growing, changing and getting better,” Laura Schafer, of Topeka, told The Topeka Capital-Journal after attending last year’s parade. “I’m really enjoying being a part of it.”

“Looking around, there’s just a lot more life down here,” Briana Arkenberg, of Tecumseh, added. “It’s a lot less industrial, and you can see people appreciate that. It’s really nice.”

Stubblefield said it’s satisfying to see the progress downtown Topeka has made the last few years as an entertainment venue.

“We understand the history of what it looked like a few years ago and what it looks like now and how much more life there is,” she said.

8D | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | The Topeka Capital-Journal

Who says there’s nothing to do downtown?

By JC Reeves

john.reeves@cjonline.com

There’s a bit of a stigma that surrounds Topeka.

After talking with someone who lives in the area, you may think there isn’t much fun to be had in the capital city.

“There always was this saying that there’s nothing to do in Topeka,” said Suki Willison, owner of Uncle Bo’s Blues Bar, “and when somebody says that now I always go, ‘Just read the paper.’

“Sometimes there’s so many things to do and so many things going on. … They’ve got stuff going on everywhere, and I’m thinking, ‘You don’t have enough time to go do everything.’ ” Willison opened Uncle Bo’s, which is in the basement of the Ramada Hotel and Convention Center, in 2005. At first, she was a bit hesitant about starting a business in downtown Topeka.

“That was in 2005, and there wasn’t too many bars downtown that people go to, let alone have a band and have people come see the band. So, I was a little apprehensive about coming downtown,” Willison said.

“But then, you know, something’s got to be started, so it was all kind of a ‘grab your ass and go for it’ kind of deal. Over the years in the bar business, and around musicians, you call upon who’s around. …

There’s a lot of people who came in and do the work and help build this little room to be something that they can be proud of in Topeka.”

Uncle Bo’s has brought in many established musicians over the past 12 years that residents of Topeka and surrounding towns might not have been able to see otherwise. Because of this, Willison’s establishment has become a bit of a trendsetter downtown.

“I think it’s an honor that I get to (do this),” Willison said. “You get to do what you love in life and you get to see performances that are wonderful.

“We’ve just been really fortunate and honored to have some of the people we’ve had on our stage. People will sometimes go, ‘I can’t believe it’s in Topeka,’ you know, and then I’m always like, ‘It’s kind of magical here, guys.’ We’ve had a lot of great musicians come out of Topeka.”

But, as Willison said, Uncle Bo’s is just one of many entertainment options downtown.

Another is Leaping Llamas Artisan Shop, which opened in August and provides art classes throughout the week.

“We do Wednesday night kids’ classes and Thursday night adults’,” said Leaping

XASDFASDF

Caenan States, right, alongside his mother, Wendi, watches fire rise off of his ceramic tile during a Fire Ink Art event at Leaping Llamas.

Llama’s owner Alicia VanWalleghem. “We introduced, once a month on Tuesdays, a family night where you can bring any age group and work as a family on a project.

“We try to do two to three Saturdays a month. … Saturdays we actually hire outside teachers, so they do more involved workshops.”

In addition to classes, Leaping Llamas sells art pieces, which line the walls and shelves of the store, made by creators with a connection to Kansas.

“Everyone has a tie to Kansas somehow,” VanWalleghem said. “We do a juried system, so we review the work, and we like to have all levels of artists, people who are just starting out to established artists.”

Juli’s Coffee and Bistro, in the historic Thacher Building, is another option for a wide variety of entertainment.

Juli Cuthbertson, who had been in the coffee business for about 10 years, opened

the business in April 2014. In 2016, Cuthbertson’s husband was relocated for work, and she was forced to sell her shop.

“My stepdaughter worked here, and Juli had told her she was going to sell it, so we talked to her,” said Kelly Edkin, new owner of Juli’s. “It took us about six months to get a business plan all together and all the financing in place.

“It was kind of a family decision. My son and my daughter both worked in restaurants and retail. They were excited. They love coffee shops, and we had been here before on a Topeka History Geeks tour, so we knew the building.”

In addition to selling food and coffee, Juli’s hosts tastings, art exhibits, live music and a plethora of other entertainment options during special event nights, such as First Friday Art Walks, and the occasional Saturday morning.

“We felt like we needed to have some-

thing else in conjunction with the other things we do,” Edkin said. “You know, things fall off so far after 3 p.m. and to get people to stay, you’ve got to have more for them to do.”

While Willison’s, VanWalleghem’s and Edkin’s businesses are vastly different, they each attribute camaraderie to downtown’s success.

“I don’t ever think of it as being competition because people are out,” Willison said. “They have choice, but at least they’re out. They may not pick you tonight, but they might pick you another night. At least they’re not sitting in front of the TV, and they’re out doing something. ”I love it when people from in town will take their family and friends to the bar to see a show. This is like their token, ‘Oh, I’m going to bring you downtown to see what we have,’ and I think, ‘Wow, that’s great!’”

The Topeka Capital-Journal | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | 9D

Specialized snack foods along Kansas Avenue tempt, delight

By Savanna Maue

savanna.maue@cjonline.com

Walking in downtown Topeka, specialty shops make you stop and turn. Whether it’s the smell of fresh-baked cookies wafting out of Shana Cake or the allure of watching Hazel Hill’s chocolatiers dunk apples into a vat of caramel, there are delicious opportunities on every block. Listed below are just three local favorites.

Cashmere Gourmet Popcorn

Address: 728 S. Kansas Ave. Hours: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday Beginning in 2013, the Anderson family began popping its locally famous gourmet popcorn. They offer more than 20 different flavors. Situated between a chocolate store and Mexican restaurant, they offer another unique-to-Topeka snack option.

Flavors range from strawberry to rainbow “promise,” savory cheesy cheddar to spicy chili cheese, and basically everything in between.

The small operation is family-owned and has gradually grown to a full-blown business. Originally. the Andersons — Bill Anderson, his wife, Angie, and their daughters, Emily and Aleigha — sold popcorn at local farmers markets, then for about two years operated a pop-up store at 1003 S.E. Quincy. They then moved to their permanent location at 728 S. Kansas Ave.

Hazel Hill Chocolate

Address: 724 S. Kansas Ave. Hours: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekdays; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Saturday Nick and Terry Xidis opened Hazel Hill Chocolate in March 2016. Nick is a thirdgeneration candy maker, and his craft is almost as close to perfect as one can get.

Walking in the front door, guests are often greeted with chocolatiers creating masterpieces behind a glass pane, whether it’s covering caramel clusters, dipping delectable cherries or drizzling caramel apples with different toppings.

In their glass display case, which runs almost the length of the store, various chocolate-covered fruits, bark candies, truffles, chocolate clusters, nutter butters and an assortment of other chocolate-covered treats fill the case.

Hazel Hill also has a detailed website, where you can order goodies online, including party platters, chocolate collections and boxed chocolates. More information can be found at hazelhillchocolate. com.

CHRIS NEAL/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Fran Morgan, mother of owner Kelly Dempewolf and manager at Shana Cake, 435 S. Kansas Ave., presses some chocolate, allergen-friendly cookies before putting them in the oven for baking.

CHRIS NEAL/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Toby Mikkelsen, an employee at Hazel Hill Chocolate, 724 S. Kansas Ave., slices a caramel apple before giving it to a customer.

Shana Cake

Address: 435 S. Kansas Ave. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. weekdays; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Saturday A Shana Cake flyer boasts: “Free of corn, nuts, casein, artificial colors, dairy, gluten, GMO’s, artificial flavors, wheat, soy and preservatives.” It turns out that tasty treats don’t require any of them.

The allergen-friendly ingredients owner Kelly Dempewolf uses are all delicious.

In April, Shana Cake opened its second bakery in Lawrence, at 914 Massachusetts, which served as a reminder of how many people there have dietary restrictions and are unable or choose not to eat traditional bakery items.

At the original Topeka location, Dempewolf’s mother, Fran Morgan, was busy rolling and pressing chocolate chocolate-chip cookies into balls to be put in the oven. She’s managed the store since her retirement in March, allowing her daughter to open the second location.

Morgan said the common favorites of her customers are cupcakes, orange/ cranberry mini breads and lemon bars.

But with another breath, she listed banana splits, strawberry shortcake and Swiss roll cakes as well.

Without added preservatives or artificial colors, Shana Cake is a necessary stop anytime you’re in the 400 block of S. Kansas Ave.

SAVANNA MAUE/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Several varieties of popcorn sit on the shelves at Cashmere Gourmet Popcorn, 728 S. Kansas Ave.

10D | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | The Topeka Capital-Journal

THAD ALLTON/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL THAD ALLTON/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

Scott Albrecht, owner of the Hanover Pancake House, 1034 S. Kansas Ave., took over operations from his father, Don, who retired in 1999.

Patty Kratochvil bought the Kansas Avenue Cafe, 325 S. Kansas Ave., in 2009. While one particular restaurant has not stayed in the building consistently, the location is known to be one of the oldest restaurant buildings in downtown Topeka. Kratochvil has since renamed the business Patty’s Uptown Heartland Cafe.

Owners of long-running Topeka restaurants offer advice

By Savanna Maue

savanna.maue@cjonline.com

When it comes to running a restaurant, the keys to a long and prosperous career seem simple. Don’t operate outside your means, put quality over quantity, and make sure people like the food.

Sounds easy enough.

But if that were the case, long-time restaurateurs would dominate the market, and it would be much harder to choose your favorites.

While the name has changed, 325 S. Kansas Ave. has housed one of the longest-standing restaurants downtown.

Building owner Patty Kratochvil bought the spot in 2009 when she opened her second location, Patty’s Uptown Heartland Cafe. Tourists may be confused that the name on the menu is different than that on the side of the building, which still declares the establishment to be Kansas Avenue Cafe. However, Kratochvil said, when the usual customers come in, they instantly recognize the food.

“I just started cooking when I was really young. I was cooking the whole Thanksgiving dinner at 8 years old,”

Kratochvil said. “I prefer scratch cooking, but you can’t do completely scratch cooking because not everybody can do what you can do.”

Kratochvil opened her first restaurant, Patty’s Heartland Cafe at 5701 S.W. Topeka Blvd., in the 1980s. While she can’t be everywhere at once, she says she can commute between restaurants in eight minutes flat, if she hits the traffic lights right.

New restaurateurs “should study up on what they’re doing, because I learned a lot of things the hard way,” Kratochvil said. “And you have to have a feel for it, a passion for it … the first time I put the key in the door I had no idea if I could make a go of it, but I was just so happy I could put the key in the door — and I still have the same attitude.”

Scott Albrecht, the owner of Hanover Pancake House, transitioned into the role of owner so smoothly he believes no one noticed.

Scott’s father, Don, retired in 1999. A year earlier, Scott said, his father cut back on hours to let him begin running the restaurant.

“I don’t think anyone ever knew for sure, it was pretty seamless,” Scott said.

PATTY’S UPTOWN HEARTLAND CAFE (KANSAS AVENUE CAFE) Owner: Patty Kratochvil Address: 325 S. Kansas Ave;.

Hours: 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday; 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday-Sunday

HANOVER PANCAKE HOUSE Owners: Jean and Scott Albrecht Opened: 1969 Address: 1034 S. Kansas Ave. Hours: 6 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday; 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday-Sunday “I think we did it in a smart way.”

At Hanover, Scott says they’re lucky, because breakfast is a staple. Bacon, eggs, hashbrowns, potatoes and pancakes are the fixings for any hearty morning meal.

“Make sure you’re using quality ingredients and that you’re getting as fair of a price as you can, and don’t have too many specialty things,” Scott said. “Because if you try to have 60 items that are all different ingredients, you’re going to

go broke trying to have all those ingredients fresh all the time.”

Scott also said to make sure your employees like the food. If they can’t recommend anything good to their customers, it’s going to reflect badly on business. Also, tailor to your clientele.

For example, Scott mentioned the restaurant’s specialty salads.

“I know there’s places out there that make really fancy salads using special lettuces and all that, but what we’ve always found is that older people, which is our clientele a lot of times, don’t like those fancy lettuces,” Scott explained.

“We found that people who were on coumadin blood thinners, they can’t have that dark green because it counteracts their medicine, so they said keep it with iceberg lettuce, that’s all they can have.

“I go to those places with the fancy salads and think they’re really pretty and really nice, but I know with my clientele that isn’t going to work.”

It’s clear from talking with these three owners: They love what they do, they are business savvy, they’re flexible, and they love talking with their customers, keeping them happy and, most importantly, well-fed.

The Topeka Capital-Journal | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | 11D

The best places to get a drink after work

By Savanna Maue

savanna.maue@cjonline.com

At HHB BBQ , nothing goes better with its slow-cooked homemade BBQ than a cold beer. With about a dozen rotating options on tap, you can try anything from the local brews of Happy Bassett Brewing Co. or Blind Tiger Brewery, to the nationally acclaimed brews of Leinenkugel Brewing Co., Boulevard Brewing Co. and the classic Anheuesuer-Busch.

Walking into the sleek space that makes up HHB, the room is divided: an open seating space for dinner guests, and to the right, some high-top tables and a beautiful bar top that runs the length of the room. The restaurant is decorated in a country-meetsindustrial-style decor, with tin sheets lining the counters and old country farm doors suspended from the ceiling.

HHB opened in 2012, became quickly known for its delicious BBQ, and after a fire in 2015 moved to its current location in the heart of downtown Topeka at 906 S. Kansas Ave. Hanging out downtown after 5 p.m., it’s commonly known that there’s not a lot open for after-work social hours, but HHB is one of the growing number of restaurants working to change that. Open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, it offers the perfect spot to bring co-workers after work, chill with a cold brew and enjoy some delicious smoked BBQ. However, HHB isn’t the only place downtown to get a cold beer after 5 p.m. We took the time to give you a few other options to get the full spectrum of what downtown Topeka has to offer.

The best view

For the best view to enjoy your beer after a long work day, nothing beats the view at the Top of the Tower Club, 534 S. Kansas Ave. The club is on the top floor of the Bank of America building in the heart of downtown Topeka. On Thursday nights, the club is open until 8 p.m. It’s open Fridays and Saturdays until 9 p.m. With visibility of up to 40 miles on a clear day, the Top of the Tower Club boasts of having the most breathtaking views in Kansas.

More than caffeine

At the Classic Bean Downtown, owner Juli Earl wants to be known as more than a coffee house. In the past year, the restaurant has extended its hours and now offers a variety of drinks at its full-service bar. While the Bean promotes more than coffee, a few of its specialty coffee concoctions are Classic Irish Coffee; Calypso

CHRIS NEAL/THE CAPITAL-JOURNAL

A small selection of tap beers are available at HHB BBQ, 906 S. Kansas Ave. At any given time, HHB has about a dozen different beers for sale.

Coffee, made with rum, creme de cacao, coffee and whipped cream; Italian Coffee, with amaretto and coffee liquor; and Espresso Chocolate Martini, sky vodka with Irish cream, dark creme de cacoa and espresso. The Classic Bean Downtown is at 722 S. Kansas Ave.

Feeling the blues?

Going to Uncle Bo’s Blues Bar after the work week is done is the perfect way to unwind. On a Friday or Saturday night, grab dinner at Madison Street Diner in the Ramada Hotel and Convention Center, 420 S.E. 6th Ave., then make your way over to Uncle Bo’s for some of its premiere entertainment. And the best part? They’re all in the same place, with easy access to some comfy beds to sleep it off if you’ve had too much fun.

Mexican cuisine

For Mexican specialties, you’ve got your options within a few blocks of the Kansas Capitol. There are Arturo’s Mexican Restaurant, 105 S.E. 10th Ave.; El Centenario, 1306 S. Kansas Ave., or Lupita’s Mexican Restaurant, a few blocks south at 732 S. Kansas Ave. They all offer amazing margaritas or one of their specialty dishes to help unwind.

Irish fare

For the traditional Irish pub experience, go no further than The Celtic Fox, across the street from the Capitol at 118 S.W. 8th Ave. The owners are friendly, the waitresses attentive, and they’re true to their word that the bar encompasses that “Cheers” vibe, where everybody knows

your name. While the Guinness is always a popular option, the pub offers a variety of beverages for the after-5 p.m. crowd.

North of traditional downtown

When asking “Where’s the best place to get a drink in Topeka?” one of the most overwhelming responses was The Wheel Barrel. With its gourmet grilled cheeses and the delicious soft-baked pretzels, The Wheel Barrel’s extensive alcohol options complement their dishes perfectly.

Bartenders create the concoctions themselves, often by recalling a popular drink they had out with friends or re-creating it to make it better. A few summer favorites are Strawberry Mountie, Kansas Sunset and, if you’re feeling really adventurous, C&B Fizz. The Wheel Barrel is at 925 N. Kansas Ave.

12D | Sunday, June 18, 2017 | The Topeka Capital-Journal