2011-12 The Argo Issue 6

THE ARGO

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Sept. 28, 2011

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volume 138, Issue 6

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The Argo Wednesday, September 28, 2011

In this edition of the Argo: Looking for a way to get involved with student media?

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COVER

Courtesy of Google Maps

Cover designed by Maggie Pilcher, photo by Josh Rouse

This Argo focuses on the diversity of artistic interests that spanTopeka and the surrounding community.

The Argo is published by the staff of the Washburn Review for coverage of Arts & Entertainment. To get in touch with the Washburn Review newsroom, please call (785) 670-2506 or e-mail at theargo@ washburnreview.org. We welcome letters to the editor. Please send them in e-mail format to robert. burkett@washburn.edu.

© The Argo Copyright 2011

Contact Us Phone: (785) 670-2506 Fax: (785) 670-1131 www.washburnreview.org

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Argonauts

Page 4 See how the NOTO district has been doing recently

Page 8 Read about local businesses that are brewing up something interesting

Page 12 Read about last weekend at Cider Days as Topeka celebrated its heritage.

Print Editor-in-Chief Rob Burkett Online Editor-in-Chief Brian Dulle Advertising Manager Elisa Gayle News Editor Megan Hash Sports Editor Sam Sayler Argo Editor Trish Peterson Graphic Design Editor Maggie Pilcher Page Design Robert Burkett •Megan Hash• Ryan Hodges • Trish Peterson • Maggie Pilcher • Josh Rouse Photo Editor Mike Goehring Copy Editors Josh Rouse • Richard Kelly Writers Rob Burkett • Michelle Boltz • Angela Connell • Kelly Andrews • Nicholas Birdsong • Jordan Chilcote • Mariauna Hernandez • Matthew Kelly • Derek Koehler • Jordan Loomis • Ben Mack • Scott Moser • Brad Pechanec• Alex Schoenberger • Photographers Kelly Andrews • Ryan Burge • Rob Burkett • Tesa DeForest •Jessica DeJager • Mike Goehring • Jordan Loomis • Nevada Millis • Anthony Richardson • Josh Rouse • Stephanie Wilhelm • Advertising Staff Anne Poulsen • Melissa Bylsma • Autumn Kitchner Business Manager Scott Moser Adviser Regina Cassell

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

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Topeka encouraged to “Do it Downtown” Tricia Peterson

WASHBURN REVIEW

Recently, a new mantra has found its way into the community lexicon.

With the newly-launched public relations campaign

by Downtown Topeka Inc., community members are being encouraged to “Do It Downtown.”

In the last two years, Topeka has seen growth of interest in reinvigorating the downtown part of the city. What began as an attempt to bring highspeed Internet to Topeka with

the Google fiberwire project has transformed into a concerted effort to bring Topekans back to the heart of the city.

It is an attempt to make the downtown area once again a relevant place to go shopping and otherwise spend time enjoying what the city has to offer.

“Our new campaign is focused on putting people in the state of mind that it’s good to go downtown,” said Cheryl Logan, spokesperson for DTI. “We want people to know that they can come down here and

there is plenty to do and enjoy.”

To that end, earlier this month DTI, in conjunction with their community partners, held a Do It Downtown rally to hand out T-shirts and other promotional material to get the word out about their campaign.

Specifically, DTI is attempting to make downtown an attractive area through partnership with Capital District Project, a group that is working through the process for bringing about refurbish-

ment of the downtown area.

“We want to this campaign to become a mentality for downtown as a vibrant place of culture,” said Zach Snethen, Capital District Project marketing co-team leader.

Through its efforts thus far, DTI, along with its partners, has managed to raise awareness of downtown locales like The Break Room, Classic Bean and other businesses looking to attract an after 5 p.m. crowd to their establishments. Part of this has

been, Top City Thursdays, an event by downtown merchants one day a week to stay open later and allow shoppers to experience what they have to offer as a shopping and eating district.

Beyond these efforts, members of the community that have been involved in the process look forward to the buy in from the community that they hope will occur from the launch of the campaign.

“Our hope is that businesses and organizations will really get behind this

campaign and make it part of their promotions about anything good happening downtown,” said Jeff Carson, owner of Gizmo Pictures.

Tricia Peterson is a junior mass media major. Reach her at patricia.peterson@ washburn.edu.

Graphic by Cameron Hughes, Washburn Review

Establishments offer entertainment in Topeka Angela Connell

WASHBURN REVIEW

Several local bars and coffee houses offer a variety of live entertainment for your enjoyment.

39th Street Bar & Grill always has something going on, from karaoke to live bands on weekends.

“What makes us unique,” says owner David Sechrist, “is the variety of music that we offer. From jazz, oldies rock, reggae, classic rock, heavy metal and country&western, you can here it all right here.”

Oct. 1, “Shawn Ward and Straight

Shot” will perform. Owners David and Shelly Bellucci offer lunch daily.

“We have the only 'Big Tony's Porkerkard Table' in Topeka. You can play Texas Hold-Em with up to four players, or if it's just you, you can play against 'Big Tony'. We also sponsor a Dart team, and quite a few pool teams, who are playing in leagues.” said David.

The Classic Bean, located at 2125 SW Fairlawn Plaza Dr., also offers live entertainment every weekend. Oct. 1, The Restless Natives will take stage at 8 p.m.

When inquiring about the poetry readings Lance Elder had some bad news. “ I have been here four years,” said Elder. “Only one person has come in to read poetry. There just wasn't the draw of customers for the poetry readings, so we don't have them any longer.”

Graphic by Maggie Pilcher, Washburn Review

The Classic Bean, which offers two locations, the other being downtown at 722 S. Kansas Ave., have a comfortable 'home-like' environment, and with any purchase, you can tap into their WI-FI, and get your homework done, while enjoying one of their many coffee drinks available.

There are also many more locations that offer great entertainment.

College Hill Tavern, The Boobie Trap Bar, Oscars, with their dart leagues and Keno, pool leagues and tournaments.

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Angela Connell is a junior social work major. Reach her at patricia.peterson@ washburn.edu.

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Wednesday, September 28, 2011

NOTO Arts District thriving after $100,000 gift Jordan Loomis

WASHBURN REVIEW

Despite art budget cuts around the state of Kansas this past year, the North Topeka Arts District, also known as NOTO Arts District, continues to inspire students and produce new projects ahead of time.

With a recent $100,000 gift, renovations, student projects and gallery collaborations, Anita Wolgast, the art district’s current marketing coordinator and co-chair of the project, and John Hunter, Washburn theatre professor and cochair of the project, are especially confident in what the district has to offer to students of all ages this upcoming year.

As the largest urban development since Topeka added the West Ridge Mall in 1988, the NOTO Arts District has plenty of history behind it.

“This project is huge,” said Hunter. “It’s not just about the two and a half streets that make up the historic North Topeka. It’s about the Great Overland Station and the first riverfront park that’s going in—it’s incredibly multi-

faceted.”

On Sept. 2, the NOTO Arts District received a significant combined gift of $100,000 from the Kaw Valley Bank and the Redbud Foundation.

“This gift has truly helped the NOTO project turn a corner,” said Wolgast. “It has allowed us to enter phase two far ahead of schedule.”

Phase two will allow the NOTO Arts District to have national marketing, which will attract more regional and national artists.

“It will also provide moving costs to those who qualify, which will allow further incentive money for the qualifying new artists and will help towards renovation costs for the buildings,” said Wolgast.

Hunter’s enthusiasm matched Wolgast’s completely.

“It was absolutely fabulous to receive such a gift,” said Hunter. “We thought that it would take three years when we first started to end phase one but NOTO took off so quickly that, quite frankly, we blew by it at the end of 18 months. “ Timing and money is

always a problem when working on a restoration project.

“So, this last summer, we were developing phase two, which would be to really kick it up a notch,” said Hunter. “Receiving the $100,000 gift worked beautifully for us.”

One of the important aspects of the NOTO Art District, according to Hunter, is its preservation roles.

“The district is going to play into historic preservation in a way that we haven’t seen anytime before,” said Hunter. “Because it’s not like its one building we’re trying to preserve—we’re trying to preserve an area in the community that goes back to the founding.”

The city of Topeka was only 10 years old when the whole development of the city was starting where the NOTO Arts District building is currently standing.

The NOTO Arts District is a project that began under the production of the Heartland Visioning process, which formed in 2008.

“Over 600 people attended the community

meetings in June 2008 to provide input into what would create a vibrant community,” said Wolgast.

“During those discussions, one of the strategies that became a part of the Quality of Life Foundation was to establish an arts district in Topeka.

Like most community-based projects, a year was spent researching art development in multiple places around the country.

“Taking that plan to people in our community was a large part of that research,” said Wolgast.

“What we received as input was nothing but excitement and support, the people want us to move forward with our plans.”

A collaboration between Topeka Public Schools, Washburn’s Mulvane Art Museum, and the NOTO Arts District, according to Wolgast, made it possible to renovate a building and open the NOTO Arts Center where art-focused classes are being offered for persons of all ages.

Washburn University President Jerry Farley also showed his support.

“Dr. Farley has pro-

Photo by Ryan Burge, Washburn Review

North Topeka Arts District: Bradley’s Corner Cafe hosts a variety of art in scenic North Topeka. It is just one of many places in NOTO where art is prevalent. vided tremendous leadership and I can’t say enough for Cindi Morrison [director of the Mulvane Art Museum] and all the work, in terms of advising, she has provided.”

When looking to the NOTO Arts District, the community can tell just what the project has planned.

Continued on page 10

Art Walk to feature two painters at Southwind Gallery Angela Connell

WASHBURN REVIEW

This month’s Friday Art Walk of Topeka will take place Oct. 7 at Southwind Gallery.

Southwind Gallery, joined with Framewoods of Topeka, is one of the founding galleries of the Art Walk. Nineteen years into existence, the gallery will offer art work done by Kansas artists.

It is located at 3074 SW 29th St. Gary Blitsch, director of Southwinds was a joy to interview on the upcoming event.

“We think it’s a

major success,” said Blitsch. “We greatly appreciate all of the visitors. This event gives them a chance to see all of our art on display and to get to know us—that we are friendly folks, not snobbish at all.”

He said only 15 people showed up for the first Friday Art Walk, compared to the 200-250 people who attend the events now.

There will be two artists painting during this month’s art walk, pastel painter Michael Duane and oil painter Allen Chow. Their work will also be on display

for the November art 80 artists, mostly from walk.

Kansas, with the excepSouthwind Gallery tion of a few who have also has Kansas p u b - “ ties. lished Oct. This event gives a book, 7 will be them a chance to “ T h e the last State opporsee all of our art on of the to display and to get to tunity Art,” view the know us—that we featur“Kaning all sas-150 are friendly folks, of the J u r not snobbish at all.

1 5 0 ied Art pieces Compe- Gary Blitsch t i t i o n ” of art on d i s p l a y Director, Southwinds Gallery p i e c e s t h i s featured month. the ” in T h e book. pieces were created by Ashley Backhouse,

manager of Soho Interiors which her family owns, also agrees that the art walk is very successful.

December marks the fourth anniversary of the art gallery. The featured artist is Jane Heiserman, from Perry, Kan. She said that her art gravitates toward abstract faces or human form (or alien, as she said her husband refers to her work.)

Heiserman said she just sits down on the floor, without any idea of what she is going to draw, and just starts drawing.

She said it gives her joy

and provides great mystery to her work.

Still on display is last month’s featured artist, Carol Keehn, who creates jewelry art. There are 16-17 local artists’ work on display at any given time.

Mulvane Art Gallery will display part of the Permanent Collection.

The gallery is currently closed to set up for its upcoming display and will be open to the public on Sept. 27.

Angela Connell is a sophomore social work major.

Reach her at angela.connell@washburn.edu

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

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Photos by Tricia Peterson, Washburn Review.

Celebrating Art Figure: Audience members listen to live music during the Aaron Douglas Art Fair. Many freelance artists as well as the Topeka Art Guild displayed their wares for sale. The Craftivists were the featured artists of the festival.

Art fair draws large crowd Tricia Peterson

WASHBURN REVIEW

The Aaron Douglas Art Fair has been growing each year in number of artists, as well as the amount of people that show up to enjoy the festivities.

This is the sixth year the fair took place in the Aaron Douglas Art Park at the southwest corner of 12th and Lane, honoring the Topeka-born artist Aaron Douglas, who was known as “the father of African American art.”

Over 40 artists, musicians and performance artists were present last Saturday Sept. 24, including featured artists The Craftivists. They are a group of five women, three of whom met while working at the YWCA clinic. They describe themselves as a group of friends uniting crafts and activism by creating handmade goods. [they] craft for environmental responsibility, social justice, peace, love and the

challenge of bettering the world with crafts.

This group of five women pride themselves in being creative feminists, who make art that allows them to express their opinions about important topics in inspiring ways.

For Nikki MacMillan, Sara O’Keeffe, Laura Burton, Michelle McCormick and Julie Velez, their mission is simple: to rock the world into an understanding about important social and worldly causes through art culture.

“We really had a fabulous experience this year,” said MacMillan. “We love that the fair celebrates diversity and art, two things we feel passionately about.”

The Topeka Art Guild, an association of local artists was also present and featured a variety of mediums from a number of different artists. The Guild has been in the Topeka community since 1916 and is a non-profit organization that operates in Fairlawn Plaza Mall. The group includes new artists, as well as more experienced ones

and has something to offer for both.

Cynthia Stotlar, board president stressed how diverse the group is and encourages all artists to check them out.

“We have over 170 artists, and we have everything from glass to jewelry, to photography, to watercolor to oils,” said Stotlar.

“We try to have a wide variety of different types of art.”

The guild also provides support to those artists who are trying to become fulltime artist entrepeneurs by providing tips, workshops and monthly conceptthemed shows which are optional to the artist. The work is usually displayed in each month’s First Friday Art Walk, and this month’s theme is “Kansans Painting Kansas.”

“We have people that are just starting out,” said Stotlar. “We also have more well known artists who are quite famous and have already got work at museums and The Chicago Art Institute. It really is a nice variety.”

In addition to these

two groups of artists, there were many individuals as well. Jennifer Somers, a photographer, featured a variety of photos taken from around Kansas.

Mary Constant, a junior Seaman High School student, had pottery, paintings and drawings on display.

Julius Trotter, a Topeka native, displayed acrylic and charcoal drawings.

In addition to tangible art, there were three musical artists that played: Good Ambition, Slow Ya Roll and Brail. Karen Hiller, Chair on the Aaron Douglas Art Fair Committee, told the history of the mural. Mariama Hodari, Aaron Douglas’s own neice, told her family history and Cyrene Holt, another niece, did a reading as well.

For a complete list of artists who were present at this year’s Aaron Douglas Art Fair, visit their web site at www.aarondouglasartfair.com Tricia Peterson is a junior mass media major. Reach her at patricia.peterson@ washburn.edu.

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Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

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Hispanic Culture continues to leave its mark on Topeka community heritage Tricia Peterson

WASHBURN REVIEW

Hispanic culture is growing in Topeka, and so is the number of businesses supporting this growth. Not only are there many restaurants around town, there are also markets, clothing stores and nightclubs aimed at Spanish speaking citizens.

East of Branner Trafficway on 6th Avenue are a wide variety of businesses catering to Hispanics in Topeka. Because 14,000 Topeka residents are Hispanic or Latino, and only 7,000 of them speak English, there is a large quantity of people looking for stores they can communicate in. Not only Photo by Tricia Peterson, Washburn Review is communication the goal, Authentic Mexican Food: Los Portales is located at 1116 SE 6th but only certain imported Avenue. goods can be found in these

specialty shops. The diversity in Topeka is growing and has been for some time, and the businesses popping up are a good sign that Spanish culture is gaining popularity here.

“Living in Topeka is interesting because of the diversity,” said Magda Medina, a Washburn University student. “I do feel that this is a good place for people of diversity to live.”

El Rodeo Miscelanea is at 1706 SE 6th Ave. that provides specialty food as well as a meat market. Various cuts of beef are available and some are already seasoned and ready to cook. A variety of dried peppers and chiles can be bought by the pound.

Also, found here are tortilla presses, Mexican-made Coca-Cola, and liquor.

Deportes y Mas, at 1517 SE 6th Ave., another specialized grocer, have some of the same products as El Rodeo Miscelanea, but focus more on materials like clothing and shoes, while having some food and candy. They provide the white dresses and outfits needed for Baptisms, First Communion and other special cultural events. They also have a large selection of shoes for men, women and children.

From soccer shoes to pretty pink boots, they have a little for everyone in the family.

Piñatas are popular here and hang from the ceiling in a variety of characters.

In this same area of Topeka, there are several restaurants and nightclubs that are aimed at Spanishspeaking citizens. El Azteca Nightclub, at 1201 SE 6th Ave. is only open on the weekends, and usually, it’s hit or miss. The owner, Raul Munoz, who also owns Los Portales Restaurant, promises there will be more exciting things to come from El Azteca in the future.

“They are open [on the weekends], but sometimes the business is slower, so sometimes they are closed,” said Munoz. “They [have] new managers, same owners, and they are going to start having big bands and this weekend, they have a big event coming up.”

El Azteca provides entertainment such as live bands, pool and music. They play salsa, reggaeton, merengue, R&B, hiphop, cubia’s and norteno. It is open Friday through Sunday from 7 p.m. until 1:30 a.m.

Los Portales across the street from El Azteca at 1116 SE 6th Ave. They specialize in authentic Mexican food, and pride themselves in being family owned and operated. Munoz himself waits tables, cashiers and does pretty much anything that

needs to be done.

“We are] trying to operate our business to make the customers feel at home,” said Munoz. “I want to make them feel like I like to feel when I am the customer.”

Not only are the restaurant owners attempting to make Hispanics feel at home in Topeka, so are many other people, including the Spanish newspaper available for free throughout the city.

“Dos Mundos” or “Two Worlds” is a periodical available in Topeka for the Hispanic. Not only are the stories in Spanish, they are also written in English. The news includes local, as well as national news, education, recipes and local coupons.

The paper is printed locally with a new issue every two weeks.

Since the early 90’s, Topeka has come a long way and it continues to grow culturally. There are always new restaurants popping up, new markets aimed at certain cultures and a larger Spanish speaking population.

Tricia Peterson is a junior mass media major. Reach her at patricia.peterson@ washburn.edu.

Photo by Tricia Peterson, Washburn Review

Hispanic Culture: Many stores on East 6th Avenue offer a variety of imported goods and specialty foods. The owners and employees all speak Spanish in order to keep the customers happy. Pinatas, clothing, food and many other goods can be purchased at these stores.

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Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Topeka offers locally brewed drinks Tanner Ballengee

WASHBURN REVIEW

With the autumn weather starting to nestle in, nothing goes better with the brisk days filled with wool sweaters and falling leaves than a cup of fresh coffee, a steaming latte or a glass of fine wine.

Whether you like the dropping temperatures or not, you cannot choose the weather; but what you can choose is what kind of beverage can go with it.

Whether you’re a ready-togo coffee person, a cultured wine connoisseur or an easygoing beer drinker, there are numerous places where you can enjoy a beverage that was brewed right here in Topeka.

Whether you’re an investment banker on the way to the firm or a student trying to make it to calculus on time, coffee is a good morning fuel to get ready for the long day ahead, and PT’s Coffee Roasting Co. brews four different varieties of it daily. PT’s serves Topeka at their retail location in Barrington Village at 5660 S.W. 29th St., and also nationwide in restaurants and cafés, including Washburn University’s own Study Grounds Café in Mabee Library.

First starting as a small coffee shop in Topeka in 1993, PT’s owners Jeff Taylor and Fred Polzin were so enthusiastic about coffee that it led them to begin brewing their own in 1997.

Since then, PT’s received much recognition and notoriety for its outstanding locally-brewed coffee, including the prized “Roaster of the Year” award given by Roast Magazine in 2009.

“PT’s is one of three coffee companies in the world revolutionizing the industry and roasting delicious coffees,” said Bret Ar-

Photo by Nevada Millis, Washburn Review

Blind Tiger: Located at 417 S.W. 37th St., Blind Tiger brews multiple types of beer and specializes in Indian pale ales. Blind Tiger is one of several Topeka-area businesses that produce their own beverages. nold, senior sociology major at Washburn and one time employee of PT’s.

Arnold said PT’s and two other major coffee companies, Intelligentsia and Stumptown, created what is called “direct trade,” a type of fair trade among coffee roasters.

“PT’s works directly with a small farm, cutting out the middleman,” said Arnold, in reference to direct trade, “As a business, PTs gets direct control over their product—a beautiful thing when we are discussing a quality-driven commodity in the specialty foods market.”

This way, PT’s Coffee Roasting Co. not only serves coffee all over the nation, but also helps out the community and local farmers.

But if coffee isn’t your drink of choice, there are two local wineries that produce and sell 100 percent Kansas made wine: Matrot Winery in Topeka and Renaissance Cellar’s Winery of St. Marys, Kan. Matrot Winery operates in a brick castle located at 6424 S.W. Huntoon St.,

on the western end of Topeka. This location serves as an outlet for their winery in Eudora, Kan., named Davenport Winery, which has had grape vines since 1992 and been commercially licensed since 1997. Matrot Castle has been serving as an outlet for two-and-a-half years, but has been standing in Topeka since 1883, when it was used for underground winemaking during the prohibition days.

Matrot, like PT’s, has received recognition and awards for its beverage. Josh Bryant, assistant winemaker at Matrot Castle, says that they offer around 10 to 20 wines at any given time and try to have different types year round. The wines include varieties of red (sweet or dry), white and blush wines.

“If you want to try some for yourself, Matrot Castle offers free wine tastings every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., and makes for a really fun experience,” said Bryant.

Both Matrot Castle and Davenport Winery in Eudora provide picnic tables out-

side the buildings, making a splendid spot for fall picnics, perfect for cozy dates and afternoon getaways.

Renaissance Cellar’s Winery is located in St. Marys, Kan. and has been making wine since Oct. 29, 2010, when it first opened.

Like Matrot, Renaissance Cellar’s wine is made with 100 percent Kansan products. Eric Stevenson, winemaker at Renaissance Cellar’s, said they have started vineyards at the winery, but it will be a few years before they can be harvested. He said that they buy grapes from local farmers, crush and press them, let them ferment, then utilize a process called maceration, which is leaving the grapes on the skins for a period of time following the fermentation.

“This process gives the wine natural effects that most American wineries try to replicate chemically,” said Stevenson. “Chemistry is an important part of winemaking, but probably the most important part of chemistry is knowing when to leave well enough alone.”

Renaissance Cellar’s

Photo by Candice Morris, Washburn Review

Matrot Winery: Finding a home in a brick castle at 6424 S.W. Huntoon St., Matrot Winery has a storied history dating back to 1883, when it was used for bootlegging during prohibition.

Matrot has been recognized for its wines. also produces and distributes mead, a honey type of wine, called “Fat Friar’s Honey Mead.” Stevenson said that their mead should start appearing in liquor stores throughout Kansas sometime soon.

“If you don’t see it in your liquor store, be sure to ask the owner, and they will be able to stock it,” said Stevenson, Fat Friar’s Honey Mead is also on tap at Frances O’Dooley’s Irish Pub & Grille in Topeka and is also featured in many of the pub’s special drinks.

Topeka also offers Blind Tiger Brewery & Restaurant at 417 SW 37th St., who locally brew multiple types of beer and specialize in Indian pale ales.

For non-alcoholic beverages, Reese’s Fruit Farm

on highway U.S. 24 provides cider slushes made from their homegrown apples.

To brew beverages at home, Kramer’s Ale-n-Vino, Inc. is a store at 925 N. Kansas Ave. that provides home brewing kits and supplies to make your very own beer or wine. PT’s also sells supplies and machinery for brewing PT’s coffee yourself at home.

Whatever the choice may be, Topeka’s breweries and wineries have years of passion and experience behind them, support local farmers, and bring smiles to the community with their authentic and delectable beverages.

Tanner Ballengee is a senior English major. Reach him at tanner.ballengee@washburn. edu.

Wednesday September 28, 2011

Photo by Tricia Peterson, Washburn Review

Photo by Tricia Peterson, Washburn Review

Grab more than just gas WASHBURN REVIEW

The daily travels of a student can bring one to the edges of Topeka and back, leaving the stomach and car both on E. There are many gas stations that have interesting goods and foods, as well as competitive gas prices.

Larry’s Shortstop is located on 38th Street and South Topeka Boulevard and is well received for the vast amount of foods they sell. They have breakfast items such as biscuits and sausage gravy, scrambled eggs and breakfast burritos. Larry’s offers lunch and dinner menu items like chicken strips and gizzards, burgers of all sizes and chicken/beef and noodles. With all that food they have in tow, Larry’s

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Good Deal: Fairlawn Plaza Mall is home to places where students can get various deals.

Glass Case of Delicious: The food case at Larry’s Shortstop offers more than the garden variety candy bar and soda offerings that other shops have. Larry’s Short stop is located at

Alex Shoenberger

The Argo

has a small café to sit and eat. Gas starts at $3.19 a gallon for unleaded.

Other than Kwik Shop, Larry’s main competition is right down the road at 46th and Topeka Boulevard.

Big Daddy’s doubles as a deli and is connected to a liquor store of the same name. The sign may say Tim’s Pit Stop, because the gas station has not had the time to change it yet. Big Daddy’s offers breakfast until around 10:30 a.m. Big Daddy’s offers mozzarella sticks, fried mushrooms, nachos and the customer favorite, gizzards. They offer a dinner menu as well.

“We have pure octane for gas, the cleanest restrooms, a place to eat the delicious food and starting October 3, we are selling BBQ,” said Elna Black, a Big Daddy’s clerk.

Gas prices are com-

petitive with Larry’s, standing at $3.19 a gallon for unleaded.

Around the bend at 45th St. and California lies one of the few Casey’s you can find in the area.

Casey’s offers a wide variety of foods as well, but what sets them apart is their pizza, which is made to order. Their monthly special right now is taco pizza.

“All of our ingredients are fresh, we cut our own produce and even make our own dough,” said Donna Allen, the assistant manager of the store. This Casey’s has an exclusive coffee bar as well. Gas prices start at $3.23 for unleaded.v Alex Schoenburger is a junior english major. Reach him at alexander.schoenburger@ washburn.edu

Shopping in Topeka Whitney Eastwood

WASHBURN REVIEW

The city of Topeka offers a variety of local and unique shopping to visitors or residents.

“When I first moved here for school, I thought the only shopping was West Ridge Mall,” said Katy Malek, student at Washburn University.

“With a little advice from my friends, I found great shopping in some local strip malls.”

Two of Malek’s favorite stores are Boutique ten47 and The Hub. Boutique ten47, located at 1047 SW Gage Blvd. in Fleming Place, is a clothing and accessory boutique that carries edgy fashion such as Rock Revival Denim, Kiss the Girl and French Connection.

The Hub, co-owned

by Sue Dickerson and Lisa Ritchey, is Topeka’s first and only collective boutique.

“A collective boutique is a great way to bring a variety of unique and stylish merchandise under one roof,” said Ritchey. “It is also a great way for small business owners and vendors to be able to showcase their items in a large marketplace.”

The Hub carries boutique clothing for adults-as well as infants and children--jewelry and home décor. Some vendors include 424 Penn, which carries skin care and cosmetics and alleyKats vintage

and chic furniture.

“We chose vendors who carried merchandise that is unique to Topeka and within a reasonable price range,” said Ritchey.

The Hub is located inside Fairlawn Plaza Mall at 21st and Fairlawn.

Fairlawn Plaza has some other stores, as well.

Sweet! Baking and Candy Making Supply has a variety of bake wear, pastry decoration and candymaking needs. The shop also offers a variety of classes. The website, www. sweetbakingsupply.com, features recipes, how-to guides, printable gift lables and cupcake wrappers, all free of charge.

Classic Bean, in business for nearly 16 years, is a coffee shop that serves fresh, in-house roasted coffee, gourmet sandwiches and specialty drinks. Classic Bean has two locations, one in Fairlawn Plaza and one at 722 S. Kansas Ave. The unique atmosphere, featuring local artwork and an outside patio, is nice for studying college students. There is a small conference room that can be used for business meetings or parties. On Friday and Saturday nights they feature local bands and artists.

“We have always been a big part of the community by helping out with coffee services, catering lunches to the board meetings and supporting charity and fund raisers with gift cards and pounds of cof-

fee for their auctions,” said Juli Earl, owner of Classic Bean.

Another popular and unique place for food and drink, located in Thunderbird Square at 29th and Croco Rd., is Ice & Olives.

Ice & Olives is a specialty market that carries a variety of cheeses and Boar’s Head meats, as well as specialty items like gourmet condiments and spices.

Brookwood Shopping Center at 29th and Oakley also offers unique shopping. Cosomo’s Indian Store features spices, teas, coffees and frozen readyto-eat meals. In addition to food items, they sell traditional Indian beauty products, shoes and purses, Henna tattoos and belly dancing accessories.

Also located in Brookwood Shopping Center is Boss Hawg’s BBQ. Boss Hawg’s is a family owned barbeque joint based in Topeka. The restaurant features fresh, slow-smoked meats and homemade side dishes.

Maximum Golf Magazine put it in the Top 10 Best BBQ in the country, and in 2001, Boss Hawg’s was named World Brisket Champion at the Jack Daniels World Barbeque Championship.

Whitney Eastwood is senior mass media student.

Reach her at whitney. eastwood@washburn.edu

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Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Arts district thrives, continues to grow Continued from page 4 “We look to artists,” said Hunter. “We’re giving them the opportunity to become teachers as well. We’re also embracing anyone in Topeka who wants to do art educational teaching, in a variety of ways: kindergarten teaching, grade school, and high school.”

At this current point and time, the North Topeka Art District has two artist studios and galleries.

“The first person to open in NOTO was Barbara Waterman Peters with Studio 831,” said Wolgast.

Peters actually leases the space to several artists to present and feature a gallery of their own work.

“The second artist to open in NOTO was Renee Johnson with the Elective Gallery and Studio,” said Wolgast. “She, too, subleases to several artists.”

In less than a year, the NOTO Art District has had around 12 artists represented in the galleries.

The renovation of the space in the NOTO Arts District has been a project for Washburn University Tech students, working alongside professionals.

“They have been our

shining stars,” said Wolgast. “Their contribution of work has saved the project a significant amount of money, while at the same time it has provided the students on-the-job training in an historic project for our community.”

With one Washburn student already interested in developing a major public art project in the NOTO Arts District, this is indeed an exciting time for the arts in Topeka. Not only do Washburn students have multiple opportunities to get involved, but community members are encouraged to as well.

“Anyone can become involved by volunteering to serve on planning committees,” said Wolgast. “They can also become involved as potential business opportunities for after graduation and as a very fun place to spend time on the First Friday Art Walks.”

Live music will be provided along with refreshments—a guaranteed good time to students has always brought hundreds of people each month.

Jordan Loomis is a freshman mass media major.

Reach her at jordan. loomis@washburn.edu.

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Wednesday, September 28, 2011

The Argo

11

Local Eateries offer heritage, good eats Michelle Boltz

WASHBURN REVIEW

Porubsky’s Deli and Grocery has been a familiar local gem in the northeast area of Topeka known as Little Russia since 1947, when it was opened

by Charles and Lydia Porubsky.

Porubsky’s is recognized in the Topeka community for its world famous chili, which has just enough of a ‘kick’ to make you want to come back for more.

Many of their clientele that grew up eating their chili will go out of their way to get some when back home for a visit.

Their hot pickles come in at a close second, and pack a great punch to compliment their chili.

Another popular item ordered is their cold plate, which comes with an assortment of four meats, two cheeses, hot and dill pickles and four slices of bread. Porubsky’s also has a small grocery section.

In addition, Porubsky’s provides party trays and catering. It is recommended to call at least two days in advance.

What’s unique about Porubsky’s clientele is being able to reminisce about the past.

“It has always been a fami-

SHOTS FIRED

Photo by Ryan Burge, The Washburn Review.

Little Russia: Porubsky’s Deli and Grocery Store has been a mainstay of Topeka food since its opening in 1947. The restaurant is famous for its chili. ly-owned business,” said Cecilia Porubsky, Charles Porubsky Jr.’s sister. “We have our regulars, and first timers everyday.

We welcome them all.”

Porubsky’s is in its second generation of ownership, and has its own documentary made by Gizmo Pictures and Matt Porubsky called “Porubsky’s, Transcendent Deli.”

Porubsky’s is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. It is located at 508 NE Sardou, right off the Sardou Bridge. To order for catering, call 785-234-5788.

Herman’s Beef and Sausage House

Another treasured place is located in North Topeka named Herman’s Beef and Sausage House. It opened its doors in 1972, and is owned by Jim Herman. Herman’s is also well known for their friendly competition with Porubsky’s with their chili and hot pickles.

“Herman’s makes theirs with mustard oil, Porubsky’s uses horseradish,” said Bob Carpenter, who has been a fixture at Herman’s for the past 25 years.

Chili will start back up

the first of October and it goes quick. One of Herman’s most popular sandwiches is the Walker. It is on white or wheat bread, with hot mustard, hot pickles, ham, roast beef and Longhorn cheese. It adds a pleasant buzz to the taste buds. Herman’s homemade beef jerky is slowly cooked and is made fresh three days a week.

Herman’s has lunch specials that change on a weekly basis. Nine varieties of meat bundles are offered at reasonable prices. Gift certificates are also available.

“It’s like an old-fashioned meat market,” said Carpenter.

Herman’s, located at 823 NW Gordon, off the Topeka Boulevard. bridge, is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays. Lunch is served from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

For more information, visit www.hermansmeatmarket.com or call 785-233-7328.

steaks, sandwiches, salads, chicken fried steak, seafood, pasta, appetizers and more. A lot of Kansas icons frame the walls, which adds a nostalgic touch.

Kansan Grill provides a cozy and casual atmosphere, with comfort food. It makes a great place to hang out with family and friends, and has a kid-friendly menu that is pleasing for even the pickiest eater.

During the week, Kansan Grill has a lunch buffet available.

Downstairs from the restaurant is a separate club that features live entertainment from local bands. Along with meals, Kansan Grill has a full bar and wine list. For catering or to find out about upcoming events, visit their website at www.kansangrill.com or call 785-233-0086. Kansan Grill is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

They are located at 705 S. Kansas Ave.

Kansan Grill

Kansan Grill is another local eatery conveniently located downtown. Kansan Grill offers Angus beef burgers, K.C. Strip

Michelle Boltz is a junior mass media major. Reach her at michelle. boltz@washburn.edu

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Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Cider Days brings out town Rob Burkett

WASHBURN REVIEW

For every season, there are traditions in most communities.

With the chill of fall descending on Topeka, the community came together to celebrate with fun and something warm to sip on.

For the last 30 years, Topekans have enjoyed Cider Days, a show of what regional merchants have to offer combined with arts and entertainment. Originally started as a crafts show in Lake Perry, Kan., near an apple cider maker’s home, the festival moved to Topeka and finally settled in the Kansas Expocentre in 1987.

“I’ve been coming to these things since the late 80s,” said Jim Copeland, Topeka resident.

“It seems like it gets bigger every year. It’s just great to see the community come out and support local people.”

The festival had its share of interesting items from all over the state and region. Artists who create unique items from chainsaw sculptures to various beadwork booths, showed off and sold their wares.

“I try to make it to a lot of these types of things throughout the year,” said Blair Smith, owner of B&R Chainsaw Sculptures.

“We travel from our home in northwestern Iowa to show what we make and give people the chance to support artists like myself. It's great to see a town like Topeka support people who put a

R s I n A o H essi

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lot of time in and make some really interesting things.”

The festival also featured an apple press, providing attendees a chance to enjoy a fresh cup of cider.

Beyond the various items vendors, there were also opportunities to support the local arts with performers of all ages from the Beverly Bernardi Post School of Dance and Pom showing off their dance skills.

“These children are just so precious,” said Gail Evans, Topeka resident. “I am so glad to see these kids getting a chance to do something positive for the community. This gives them a sense of self worth and keeps them from getting caught up in things that they shouldn’t be doing.”

The performances ranged in diversity from traditional cheerleading, to dance team inspired shows to a tap dancing young woman who mesmerized the audience.

“It’s so cool,” said Laura Brandt, 9-year-old Topeka resident. “It makes me want to dance too.”

Brandt, along with other younger members of the community look forward to the future of Cider Days and getting the chance to come back next year.

“It’s a lot of fun,” said Brandt. “I want to come back next year and ride the camels again.”

Robert Burkett is a senior mass media major. Reach him at robert.burkett@washbun.edu

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