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Featuring Beans & Cornbread, KAW River part 1, Great Mural Project photo essay, Binary Benefit for Jayhawk Theatre and more!
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our wall: a vision in paint forms the newest panel of Topeka’s Great Mural Wall
{ photo essay • pg 3 }
paint mefree
Vol. VI Issue II September 1 - October 15, 2011
Topeka’s guide to art, entertainment, lifestyle + local flavor
fix the topeka dam
kaw river{ part one • pg 23 }
craftivists| jayhawk theatre fundraiser the return of the milk man | and much, much more
Publisher/Owner Kerrice Mapes
[email protected] editOr
Leah [email protected] editOr
Dennis Etzel Jr. [email protected]
weekender editOrsAlice C. Hunt + Rio Cervantes-Reed
Marketing sPecialistRio Cervantes-Reed
Kerrice Mapes + Rio Cervantes-ReedillustratiOns
Aymen Ghali Amanda Reynolds
layOut + designKerrice Mapes
Leah Sewellwriters
Amber BonnettRegina Budden
Robin CremerAnthony DavisDennis Etzel Jr.Cale Herreman
Larissa Keller Kerrice Mapes
Gary PilandMatt Porubsky
Rio Cervantes-ReedJosh Rouse
Melissa SewellMacie Smith
Tom WahJanice WatkinsErin Wynkoop
PhOtOgraPhy Lydia Barnhart
Tiffany Bonnewell EJ Drake
Adam KogerGary Krohe
Colin MacMillanJosh Rouse
distributiOnRio Cervantes-Reed
Larissa Keller business
Liz Bellbar wars Jared Hitchens
If you like The Office, then you’re sure to like The Office Too!
LUNCH: Open at 11 amDINNER & DRINKS: Open ‘til 2 am Sun-TuesEARLY MEETING: Breakfast brunch ‘til 5 am Wed- Sat
3251 S. Topeka Blvd. | 785-354-9380Live Music at the Office www.drinkattheoffice.com
AMERICAN APPAREL
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We Support Fair Trade
Business Uniforms - Bands
Casual/Fashion Wear -
Novelty Items -Authentic Art Pieces - Pet Wear - Head WearNovelty Items -
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Custom Personalization Available
(For Men, Women, Children of all ages)
College Students Addition 10% off With Student ID
Athletic Leagues - Events
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Where the Coast meets Kansas Ave.
728 S Kansas Ave. Topeka Ks, 66603Phone (785) 783-8622 Fax (785) 783-8623
3 photo essay: our wallChesney Park’s Great Mural Wall Project continues to grow.
8 binary eventJayhawk Theatre music event
23 fix topeka damThe future of the KAW River: part one. LOCAL FLAVOR7 new city cafe downtown19 iwig delivers26 the office too
LOCAL musiC8 on the house18 5Q: beans + cornbread
LOCAL ART10 craftivists 22 art in the garden
exCLusiVe23 locals take up HGtv challenge27 tommy from speck’s: bud light behind the bar
{on the cover} Adam Koger Photographerkogerphoto.weebly.com
Publisher/Owner Kerrice Mapes
[email protected] editOr
Leah [email protected] editOr
Dennis Etzel Jr. [email protected]
weekender editOrsAlice C. Hunt + Rio Cervantes-Reed
Marketing sPecialistRio Cervantes-Reed
Kerrice Mapes + Rio Cervantes-ReedillustratiOns
Aymen Ghali Amanda Reynolds
layOut + designKerrice Mapes
Leah Sewellwriters
Amber BonnettRegina Budden
Robin CremerAnthony DavisDennis Etzel Jr.Cale Herreman
Larissa Keller Kerrice Mapes
Gary PilandMatt Porubsky
Rio Cervantes-ReedJosh Rouse
Melissa SewellMacie Smith
Tom WahJanice WatkinsErin Wynkoop
PhOtOgraPhy Lydia Barnhart
Tiffany Bonnewell EJ Drake
Adam KogerGary Krohe
Colin MacMillanJosh Rouse
distributiOnRio Cervantes-Reed
Larissa Keller business
Liz Bellbar wars Jared Hitchens
@seveneightfiveOverhear something funny out-and-about? Tweet it here: @785heardnotedEvents we support: #ffaw | #topcitythursday
785
seveneightfive magazineSept.1 - Oct. 15, 2011Vol. VI Issue II
seveneightfive is a free lifestyle magazine highlighting entertainment, art,
local businesses + more in Topeka.
Disclaimer: seveneightfive strives for accuracy in all of our materials, regrets errors, but cannot be held responsible. We recommend contacting venues to confirm dates and events (sometimes they change).
785.235.1700 www.RowHouseRestaurant.net
deliciously evolving...
[ in this issue ] << Bars Give Back: Binary Event photo by Amanda Reynolds
seVeneighTFiVe diReCT subscription for only $20 a year
P.O. Box 750491 Topeka, KS 66675
Subscribe online:
www.seveneightfive.com
2
“The ultimate dining experience.”
LUNCHMon - Fri: 11 am - 2 pmDINNERMon - Thu: 5:30 - 8:30 Fri & Sat: 5:30 - 9:30
photo by Lydia Barnhart
4005 Gage Center Drive | 785.271.8646 |newcityonline.biz
thai chicken PizzaIf you haven’t tried this, you need to call or visit Bosco’s right away.435 S. Kansas Ave.785.232.6726 * See the ad in back of magazine for hours *
ale alchemistwith patrick porubskyChemical CuratorUniversity of Kansas
The only thing I like more than food is beer, and I’ve found the
perfect combination: Bosco’s Thai Chicken Pizza with home-brewed Black Ginger Ale. The savory peanut-flavored pie is enriched by the sweet, citrusy and slightly roasted-tasting black ale. The smooth brew is easy to drink and doesn’t overwhelm the taste of the pizza. aseveneightfive
black ginger ale makes 5 gallons
5 lbs. light malt extract½ oz cascade hops (60 minute boil)4-8 oz fresh ginger in straining bag1 lb. cracked chocolate malt1 packet of ale yeast
Tuesday, Sept . 6 | 6-9p (come 15 min. or stay for hours)
Ramada Convention Center FREE | Open to ALL!
Is a fun & safe event that allows people to write down their big goals & dreams, and post them anonymously. All dreamers connect and offer encouragement to at least one dreamer. It’s REAL people helping each other go after that BIG DREAM. Connect. Dream. Participate.
Learn more: Use the QR code or visit www.bigdreamgathering.com
#bigdreamks
Quarterly Networking Socials: Members FREE / Guests $5 Sept 29: 5 - 7 p.m. @ Ed Bozarth Chevrolet 3731 Southwest Topeka BoulevardOct 25: 5 - 7 p.m. @ Chamber Business Expo Ramada Convention Center, downtown Topeka
Quarterly Insiders Series Events: Members FREE / Guests $10
Sept 9: Easter Seals Capper Foundation3500 SW 10th Ave. / 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.Oct 7, 8 & 15: KS ExpocentreOne Expocentre Drive / 6:30 - 9 p.m.Working behind the scenes at an event! Save the Date - Holiday Party:
December 2 | Location TBD
Fast Forward is a program of the Topeka Chamber of Commerce designed to offer young professionals a place to socialize, network and grow in leadership potential through a variety of yearly programs. We invite you to attend an event as a guest or become a member. Please refer to our website www.fastforwardtopeka.org for information about joining Fast Forward or to RSVP for an event.
Upcoming Events for YPs
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G.K.
{ photo essay }
our wall.
The seventh panel of the Great Mural Wall of Topeka was planned with help from members of
the community. Lead artists Ashley Laird and Dave Loewenstein joined Chesney Park residents and Topekans to add the new jewel to Topeka’s crowning glory at 19th and Western in the Chesney Park neighborhood.
The piece, entitled, “Contagious Beauty,” celebrates Topeka’s artistic past and thriving present.
b y A D A M K O G E R a n d G A R Y K R O H EA.K.
A.K.
G.K.
G.K.
prime.The mural was a community effort from the start, with many Topekans lending a hand and picking up brushes to help make the plan a reality.
G.K.
G.K.
A.K.
A.K.
A.K. A.K.
paint.“The design explores contagious beauty as a metaphor for art in Topeka. As Topeka reflects on its rich history and continues to cultivate art in its community the desire and ability to create becomes more activated and alive. An overall abstract pattern referencing a network of synapses and molecular structures represents the spreading of this inspirational energy. Highlighted throughout the composition are references to both well known and more “under the radar” Topeka art treasures. Prominent Topeka artists from the past such as John Stuart Curry and Aaron Douglas are referenced as well as examples of new artistic momentum exemplified by the NOTOArts District and ReThink Topeka projects.” -- Ashley Laird.
Outlines projected onto the wall at night and the first permanent brushstrokes. G.K.A.K.
A.K.
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The mural is nearly complete as of this printing, and available for the public to enjoy.
Lead artists Ashley Laird and Dave Loewenstein perch on the scaffolding. Laird, a Topeka native and Fine Art graduate of WU, has been assisting with panels for several years. This is her first panel as lead artist. Loewenstein is reknowned throughout Kansas for his murals depicting and celebrating Kansas’ cultural heritage.
culmination.
A.K.
G.K.
G.K.
G.K.
G.K.
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seen + noted |
FLAVORLOCAL
new city openingin the heart of the city b y K e r r i c e M a p e s p h o t o b y L y d i a B a r n h a r d t
NeW CITy CAfe: 715 S Kansas Ave. Offering salads, soups and sandwiches | M-F | Lunch OnlyScheduled to open first of October. This is their 2nd location.
One of our favorite local restaurants is opening a second location in downtown Topeka.
New City Cafe, known for their addictive blend of eclectic Caribbean and Latin cuisine, beautifully prepared with fresh, high quality ingredients, has been pleasing diners in their chic restaurant located in Gage Center since 2003 under owner Luis Guillén. Since the restaurant opened they have also become a great location for lunch, focusing on a deli-style service of sophisticated salads, soups and sandwiches.Luis is excited about the addition and offering quality food in a quick dining atmosphere that downtown Topeka demands.It’s this lunch success that they are sharing with downtown Topekans when their second location opens at 715 S Kansas the first of October.“We’re gonna keep it simple. We won’t serve entrees, just sandwiches, salads and soups that are the quality we are known for. We want to accommodate those bank workers, secretaries and state employees who need a delicious lunch in 30 to 45 minutes.”715 S Kansas is adjacent to Marion Lane Candles and offers free parking on Kansas Ave. during the day.“We are excited to move into this location. Connie, the owner of Marion Lane and our landlord is very excited as well and really wants to help make downtown happen.”Open Monday through Friday for lunch only, Luis hasn’t dismissed the idea of opening for dinner, but it’s not in the near future.“The food for the downtown location will come from here [Gage Center location], so we are keeping it simple. However, if the downtown area kicks off, which I really hope it does, we will expand.”Until then, know that New City has always had a heartfelt desire to offer unique cuisine to their customers, and now we can feel this in the heart of our city, Downtown Topeka.aseveneightfive
b y J a n i c e Wa t k i n s
{ how Topeka bars are giving back }on the house
10.01.11 might be binary code and glorified “geek speak” for the computer literate, but for downtown Topeka, October 1, 2011 marks an event that will be anything but nerdy. The first annual Binary Benefit will done two stages, five local music artists and bands (and possibly counting), vendors, a silent auction, and a chance to tour an architectural Topeka icon. Spearheaded by local band, Monk’s Wine, this far from average block party, hopes to bring awareness to local musicians and raise money for the renovation of the Jayhawk Theatre. “The Jayhawk Theatre is a great place to promote the arts in Topeka,” asserted Jarrod Guth, guitarist and backup vocalist for Monk’s Wine. Monk’s Wine recognized the need for the revival of the classic Topeka venue and tuned into other artists desires to stay in Topeka and play and please their hometown audience. The answer came in the idea of a benefit to renovate the Jayhawk Theatre and a chance to bring together musicians of all genres across Topeka. The goal is to block off 8th Avenue between Jackson and Kansas and have two stages marking the street ends, with amps and drumkits donated by Supersonic Music, blaring onto the block. The musicians signed on for the day will alternate playing original and cover songs from each stage. For only $5, benefit concert goers will experience a full day of music, have a chance to bid on silent auction items inside the celtic fox, promoting only local businesses, and even take a tour of the Theatre, which will be open during the day. A compilation CD, mastered by Rundown Studios, featuring the artists signed on for the event will also be available. All proceeds will go directly to the Jayhawk Theatre. “It [the renovation] is something we really want to see in Topeka. We really want to play there,” says Guth. “All of us are really wanting to grow artistically,” he nods, noting that many local artists and bands have to travel to nearby towns, like Lawrence, for venues to play. “We recognize there is a lot of talent in Topeka that people are missing out on.”For more information regarding the benefit visit The Binary Benefit Facebook page or www.monkswine.com. aseveneightfive
the Binary Benefit
10.01.118th Ave. + Celtic foxdowntown Topeka
more info on FB page, search “The Binary Benefit”or facebook.com/TheJayhawkTheatre
a future venue
i m a g e s p r o v i d e d b y M o n k ’s W i n e & J a y h a w k T h e a t r e
bands scheduled to perform:
Monk’s WineChris Aytes and the Good Ambition
X-MenJamie Sanchez-CabrizaJosh Vowell and the Rumble
The Jayhawk Theatre Board is working to raise funds from the community and through grants to fully restore the 1926 theater and modernize it for use for concerts, performances and more. To learn more, visit jayhawktheatre.com
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heard + notedBe sure to keep RTing + Tweeting @785HeardNoted with all your favorite witty tweets
I can’t drink out of a square glass, my mouth is round @ Blackbird
It’s not my problem if you’re stupid @ Pigskins
She was added during the Farmville craze of 2009 @ Bosco’s
I can’t take anyone talking politics seriously if they still have acne @ College Hill
Oh, it’s good to know you once had a soul @ Hanover Pancake House
He was a hipster before hipsters were cool @ The 20’s
I dated the bartender’s son once. Let’s be honest, who have I not dated? @ Terry’s
Hey! Wanna see my Hello Kitty? @ Goose
RTS FROM @785HEARDNOTED
If some dude ever says, “Take a bite of my heart tonight” I’ll know he’s on drugs and I actually might do it @erinleigh1222
I wish I’d known 15y ago when a college advisor asked, it’s a valid career choice to “Say stupid stuff on the internet.” @benrobbins
seen + noted |
DA RT
On saturday, september 17 at 9 am., teams of three to six people will converge on downtown Topeka for the
Downtown Adventure Race Topeka (DART). Anyone over age 18 can participate (under 18 must be accompanied by an adult) and need not be an athlete. Costumes and team themes are encouraged, with prizes for top finishers as well as other unique categories. The DART is a multi-leg urban adventure race where participating teams compete in a variety of fun challenges and tasks that will
test both physical and mental skills. It is the first of its kind in Topeka. Proceeds from the cost of $35 per person directly benefit the adult basic education and lunch programs at Let’s Help. The cost also includes an official T-shirt, free food and beverages and a race number. Participation is limited to the first 50 teams to register. More information can be found at dothedart.com aseveneightfive
b y L a r i s s a K e l l e r p h o t o b y A d a m K o g e r
The dartboard in the window next to Quizno’s is promoting the DART, a benefit for Let’s Help.
G e t w e e k l y e v e n t s s e n t t o y o u r i n b o x v i a t h e s e v e n e i g h t f i v e w e e k e n d e r . S i g n u p o n l i n e o r u s e t h e Q R C o d e t o t h e b e l o w .
DART RACE: Saturday, September 17 | 9am | Teams of 3 - 6
locals featured on HGtvHe’s a tall cool drink of water named JD. She’s a pretty petite blonde who goes by Sher. It’s a stuffed pheasant named Ricky. Throw in a Chevy Volt named Melanie. Now you may be asking, what kind of sick story is this? It’s all perfectly innocent, as JD Lindman from Topeka, and Sher Bailey from Chanute travel to Chattanooga, TN on behalf of HGTV to compete in the network’s, “Endless Yard Sale Challenge.” Find out how, “Team Comedian,” fared on October 16 when the one-hour special airs. Until then, check out www.seveneightfive.com for our interview with the fearless pair, and learn how Ricky, the taxidermic pheasant came to be their mascot. Be sure to check out their audition videos while you’re there! aseveneightfive
U s e t h i s c o d e t o v i e w t h e a r t i c l e a n d a u d i t i o n v i d e o .
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art
The Craftivists ladies are shining as featured artists for the Aaron Douglas Art Fair for 2011. This is an honor for grassroots artists who love to support the community they belong to. Craftivist Laura Burton was beyond excited to find out they were asked to be the featured artist for the fair. She says the art at the Aaron Douglas Art Fair is, “accessible in so many ways.”
“A lot of the people at Aaron Douglas are people who are making art in their basement,” Burton says, as she describes what makes the art fair so great. “It attracts a lot of people from the community, families out walking their dog who stop by and start looking at the art… To
theart troupe
The grassroots art group, the Craftivists, bring their accessible art to the Aaron Douglas Art Fair as featured artists this year.
b y E r i n W y n k o o p • p h o t o s c o u r t e s y J u l i e V. P h o t o g r a p h y
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authentic feather extensions
obtain what you desire. 2601 SW 17th
233.5577
be the artists chosen to represent that event is a huge honor and speaks very well of the accessibility of our art.”These amazing Craftivists, consisting of Sara O’Keefe, Nicole MacMillan, Michelle McCormick, Laura Burton and Julie Velez, have a mission to use their art, according to MacMillan, “to convey ideas about different social issues” including women’s issues such as empowerment and combating body issues. They also strive to make art accessible to the community through art fairs and art groups at the YWCA. The Craftivists started out with a “group of girls and a bottle of wine” according to Laura Burton. She describes MacMillan as someone who “brings a lot of positive emotional energy into the group.” Burton says that Michelle McCormick has a “really unique creative perspective” but also takes care of business when need be. As for Julie Velez, Burton gushes about how amazing she is at photography and she is not afraid to pitch in and try something new. Burton describes Sara O’Keefe as “THE amazing artist who holds all the creative energy together.”In the next year, the Craftivists hope and plan to be on the internet, selling their one-of-a-kind art and blogging about various social issues and causes that are important to them as well as information on projects and upcycling.Be sure to visit the Craftivists and all the amazing artists participating in the Aaron Douglas Art Fair September 24, 2011 from 10am to 5pm at the Aaron Douglas Art Park, 12th and Lane. aseveneightfive
b y E r i n W y n k o o p • p h o t o s c o u r t e s y J u l i e V. P h o t o g r a p h y
The Craftivists have a mission to use their art to convey ideas about different social issues.
www.heartlandvisioning.com
Your CommunitY taking aCtion
initiatives & Partners of...
Shawnee County’s Largest Workout
Kansas Young Professionals Conference, 2012
Interagency Coordination Council
HPHS Robotics Program
lifestyle
Court Apointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Shawnee County is celebrating their 25th year on September 28th with
a gala fundraiser at the Ramada Convention Center in downtown Topeka. The theme of the event is “Justice is Served,” and CASA will deliver on that promise with a bevy of “celebrity servers” from the local judicial and law enforcement communities. Meals are $75 a plate and dress is business attire for those arriving straight from work. The gala will also honor Judge Daniel Mitchell for his 25 years of service as a District Court Judge as well as for his exemplary support of CASA and its mission. The proceeds from this event will help fund the day-to-day operations of CASA in the form of training for volunteers and costs for administrative oversight. CASAs are volunteer officers of the court, and act as the eyes and ears of judges in cases where children are removed from their homes and placed into the court or foster care systems. At any given time, it is estimated that 1,200 children are classified as “children in need of care” in Shawnee County alone. A CASA is assigned to a case, and that individual will remain with that case until its resolution, a timeframe which lasts 40 months on average.Sharon Boranyak, a CASA board member, stresses that there is still a lot of work that needs to be done.“Of the 1,200 children in need of care, we can only help about one-third of the cases.”Boranyak cites that available volunteers and financial restrictions have forced the CASAs to focus only on the most severe of the cases.“We need increased support from the residents and business community in order to bridge the gap. We need volunteers to train, and the funds to train them.”Operating on a “shoe-string budget” is a fact of everyday life for CASAs, and in Shawnee County they have managed to more with less. In 2010, each of the 431 cases handled by CASAs cost an average of $620, which is approximately half the average cost for similar programs around the country. This is the reason why even small donations can make a big difference.
To make a reservation for the gala, contact Carol Smith at [email protected] volunteer or make a donation, visit CASAofShawneeCounty.org or call 785-215-8282. aseveneightfive
gala for justiceb y A n t h o n y D a v i s • p h o t o c o u r t e s y C A S A
save the date!
The 24th Annual Homes for the Holidays Tour starts Friday, November 18 with a 6 p.m. candle light tour and continues through the 20th. Homes are volunteered by owners and made available for public viewing. Local florists and designers donate time and materials to decorate the homes and showcase their talents. New this year is a house decorated in traditional Jewish style. Tickets are $9 in advance, $10 at the door.
The Potawatomi Tribal Police Department’s Victims Assistance Program is calling attention to Domestic Violence Awareness Month this October by unveiling a
project their survivors art group, along with members of the surrounding communities, have been working on throughout the summer. This Community Story Tree Project, consisting of 72 square foot tiles, create a mosaic of the community tree. This project is set to promote healing through art and striving to become a violence-free community in the future. Please be sure to stop by Jones Huyett Partners for the presentation at the first friday art walk on October 7 to see this remarkable project in its entirety.
seen + noted |
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Bullfrogs Live Lucky dogs Pigskins skinny’s Blind Tiger
community story tree projectb y E r i n W y n k o o p
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DOORS open 5:30 pmBOUTS start 6:30 pm
FIGHT NIGHT AFTER PARTY
2920 SE Croco Rd. (29th & Croco)
(785) 267-7400
facebook.com/ReedsRingsidefacebook.com/DangerFirePromotions
L ars and Bren Nordgren aren’t your typical golf equipment retailers. While
others focus on clubs or golf balls, these brothers instead focus on discs. The Nordgrens sell new and used disc golf equipment via their websites, LSDiscs.com and LSDiscs.net. The idea began when the two were younger and made money by finding lost discs for golfers. As they got older, they started getting more involved in playing tournaments and going to disc golf leagues, and eventually decided to turn the childhood business into a promising new enterprise.“I was doing it through college and I enjoyed doing it, it’s always been an atmosphere for a sport I’ve enjoyed,” said Lars, who graduated from Washburn University in 2008 with a marketing degree. “When I got out of college it was
kind of the perfect time because I didn’t have any strings attached, I didn’t have any commitments to any jobs, and honestly the job market was probably the worst time out of any time in the job market.”This fall, the brothers will host the Mighty Shunga Open during the first weekend in October. Nordgren said it’s easy for beginners to get started with the sport.“Honestly, the best way is just to come out and check out the league,” said Nordgren. “We run a league every Wednesday, at Lake Shawnee the first week of every month and Crestview the rest of the weeks. A lot of people just kinda check out what’s going on. You can come better learn how to throw and have more guidance than just trying to learn on your own.” aseveneightfive
golf brotherslsdiscs
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Two Topeka brothers find their disc niche; host local tournaments.
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SPONSORED BY:
CD Tradepost, 1570 SW Wanamaker9/02/11: Brian Rizzardi 6 -8pm9/17/11: Here to Stay 12-2pm9/24/11: Claire Cox 12 -2 pm9/ 30/11: Dream Killer University 7-8 pm9/30/11: Soil Doves 8-9 pm
CD Tradepost, 3116 SW 29th, Topeka KS9/9/11: Mark Rose (acoustic guitar) 6-7 pm9/16/11: Big Ben Kirby (hand drum) 6-7 pm9/17/11: S. Ranx (reggae dj) 6-7:30 pm
Tradepost Outlet 2121 SW Wanamaker9/18/11 The Trants 2pm – 3:30 pm
CD Tradepost, 826 SW Kansas9/8/11: Headchange 5:30-7:30 pm9/15/11: TWHS Drumline 6:45 – 7:45 pm 9/22/11: Jacob Hodge 5:30-7:30 pm9/29/11: The Hit Squad “Block Party DJs” 5-7 pmCD Tradepost, 1707 SE 29th
9/3/11: Jacob Hodge 5:30 pm9/17/11: Soultaker Records 5:30 pm9/24/11: Wakamojo 5:30 pm9/27/11: Livy High 5:30 pm
magazine
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St. Marys, a town 30 minutes from Topeka on U.S. Highway 24, is hosting its second Flint
Hills Shakespeare Festival. The festival is on the St. Marys Public Golf Course September 16-18 and 22-25, starting at 5 pm. Thursday and Friday, and 3 pm Saturday and Sunday. The focal point of the festival is Shakespeare’s beloved comedy, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” which starts at 7:30 each night.
“It’s always cities that do big festivals,” said Tim Akers, part owner of Renaissance Cellars Winery and the director of the play. “Small towns can do the same thing, and do it just as well.”The festival will feature local artisans such as a blacksmith, carpenter, weaver and potter. Costumed actors will roam the grounds to interact with festival attendees as they shop and enjoy turkey legs and Highland games. The funding, supplies and actors come from the area. Eric Stevenson, Akers’ partner at the winery, is building the set for the show as well as playing the fairy king, Oberon. “What you get with amateur performers versus professional Shakespearean actors is that they put more realism to it,” Stevenson said. “We
don’t have our noses up in the air. It’s enjoyable because we’re not taking ourselves too seriously. It’s more tangible to the audience.”Akers and Stevenson will join other local small business owners to offer their wares at this small-town festival. They said the size is
an advantage for artisans who work from home because most cannot afford booths at a larger festival. Although the play costs $10 per person, $15 per couple or $30 for a family, the festival is free,
which Ben Moats, the show’s producer and a partner of KG Moats and Sons, hopes will entice potential attendees.
“We want to be the Shakespeare festival of Kansas,” Moats said. “Most other states have one, but there’s no big festival in Kansas.”Akers said the biggest draw is that whether someone’s looking for a cheap date or a place to take the kids, the festival can accommodate.“Someone can have tiny kids crying bloody murder and, since you’re sitting outside, it doesn’t matter. It’s not like you’re in a theatre where everything’s close and it echoes. You can bring a picnic dinner, and you can set a blanket out on the hill and if you bring your own food, you bring your food. It’s not restricted in any way.” Moats said the state’s funding cuts should prompt art-lovers to “put their money where their mouth is,” which is the heart of the Flint Hills Shakespeare Festival. “It’s about doing something that can inspire people to live culturally and live locally, even in these economic times,” Stevenson said.For more about the festival, tickets, volunteering or requesting a booth, visit www.smshakes.org or contact Ben Moats at 785-844-1698. aseveneightfive
ren fest next doorThis fall hundreds of people will drive across Kansas to visit the Kansas City Renaissance Festival. Little known is that many of the same experiences are being created closer to home.
b y R e g i n a B u d d e n • p h o t o s p r o v i d e d
flint Hills Shakespeare festivalSt. Marys | 30min from Topeka
September 16 - 18 | 22 - 25Thursday & friday: Open at 5 pSaturday & Sunday: Open at 3p“A Midsummer Night’s Dream” starts at 7:30p each night.[a
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Dear Rupey,I can’t stand it! Every time my boyfriend walks past, he has to reach out and touch my butt. It’s driving me crazy. How do I get him to stop? – Cranky Babe
Dear CB,What’s the down side? Yer sig likes yer stuff, Bucko. Be glad it isn’t someone else’s booty he’s reaching out for... — RR____________________________
ARIESNever be afraid to admit yer a complete fricking moron, ya screwed up and yer really, really sorry. Just not at the IRS.
TAURUSI know it’s been a tough year, with the price of rubber undies and all, but look on the bright side, yer rash is healing nicely!
GEMINIIf someone says, “Could be worse!” all smug and cheerful like, it’s perfectly fine to slap a fat lip on ‘em and add, “Wow, a fortune teller. Cool!”
CANCEROkay, so it’s finally over. Time to grab yer special love pillow and head for home. And yer special glitter thong, and yer special rubber thingies and yer... Better rent a van, Bucko.
LEOIt’s late, yer a little lonely and a little hungry and suddenly, there in the distance—the Denny’s sign. Ya try to look away, but yer helpless to resist the beckoning, mesmerizing glow. A small smile creeps across yer face. Ya turn into the parking lot...
VIRGOSometimes ya just have to walk away, Bucko. It’s not worth the aggravation. Trust me.
LIBRAFinally, the heat has faded and the fall breezes are with us again. That was one long, nasty, hot, smelly summer. Now we can all get ready to FREEZE!
SCORPIOLast month’s Prognosticatio was too good not to repeat... Sung to the tune “California Girls” by The Beach Boys: “The other signs all wish they were Scorpios...” C’mon, sing it!
SAGITTARIUSWell, did ya?
CAPRICORNI’m afraid we won’t be having any sexy fun news for ya this time, Bucko. Nothing personal, but soap is yer friend. Just sayin’.
AQUARIUSI’ve been getting complaints from Leo that yer not dropping by Denny’s as much. Late at night. Loaded. And real friendly.
PISCESAh, the little fishy is feeling frisky, eh? Cooler weather, a bit-o-rain and yer ready to head into the party season? Well, all I can say is go for it. Yer never again going to be as young as ya are right now, Bucko. Enjoy! ___________________________
Question for the Blue Guru? Stop kidding yerself, Bucko. Yer not as big (a loser) as ya think! [email protected] ___________________________
* Astrological predictions are about as real as Rick “W” Perry claiming he has created jobs. Gimme a break. Mostly public sector or minimum wage and not even keeping up with population growth? Besides, the last Texan we had was such a loser—this guy creeps me out! He even sounds like Bush. Ick!
A ll the way down 29th street, past Croco, past Skylark, and then right down Tecumseh there is a dairy farm where you
can buy fresh milk in glass bottles, the way that people certainly bought it before plastic took over packaging. Why haven’t they switched to plastic bottles at Iwig Dairy? “Our customers tell us that the plastic ruins the taste of the milk,” says Tim Iwig, the man in charge. In the past, the dairy store off of Tecumseh was the best place to buy Iwig Dairy’s wonderful, locally produced milk. Now you can buy it at Dillon’s, HyVee and Apple Market in Topeka, and also at the Community Mercantile and Checkers in Lawrence.After selling $227,600 of $250,000 in Iwig stock last summer, the dairy has expanded their business a little further, all the way to a store at 724 Gage devoted to selling Iwig Dairy products. This, too, has been a great expansion of the business, and has provided a new place for customers to get the dairy fix that they crave. The store, however, is only the first of a new, multi-pronged approach to getting milk to the customers.
In the next month, Iwig Dairy will be unfurling a Mobile Marketing Van. “With this truck we intend to create a Mobile Farmer’s Market that will bring local produce to you where it’s convenient,” says Tim. With the success of the store on Gage, the dairy is taking business to the next level. They are planning to find different neighborhoods and church parking lots across the Topeka area on a weekly basis to sell bottled milk, ice cream, cheeses and also locally produced meat, eggs, tomatoes and other fresh, local goods.
“This will bring farm produce to your local neighborhood where you haven’t had access to it before.”Besides the Mobile Marketing Van, Tim Iwig tells me his next big announcement, and the second prong of his multi-pronged approach to get the goods out: “We intend to open a store in Lawrence.” The location has not been decided yet, but they intend to be open by the end of August.
With the store on Gage, the Mobile Marketing Van, and the new store in Lawrence, Iwig Dairy is continuing to find new ways to bring their delicious bottled milk and dairy products to even more people. aseveneightfive
the return of the milk man
purchase IWIG milk + productsTopeka: Dillions, Hy-Vee, Apple Market + IWIG store at 8th + Gage
b y B o o n e S m i t h • p h o t o b y E J D r a k e
Formed around the middle of the last decade, Topeka based Beans & Cornbread is a big ol’ brass band that lays down some serious funkiness, that you can sit, listen, and enjoy; but after hearing a few of their upbeat horn driven funky-licous, tunes, you can’t help but get up, get down and shake, shake, shake your booty.
Building a repertoire from artists representing a wide variety of musical genres spanning a multitude of decades; B & C cover songs by the likes of: Tupac Shakur, the Gap Band, Stevie Wonder, Bob Marley and Bill Withers, not to mention that great New Awlins funk they cut their teeth on. An eight piece band (five horn players, guitarist, bassist and drummer, most sing) with members “spreadin’ out so far and wide,” it’s hard enough getting them together to do a gig much less talk to the “kooky” music writer of seveneightfive, but we managed to pull three of ‘em together long enough to talk about their funked up band and the remarkable music they perform.You guys play mostly covers. How do you choose the ones you play?Alan Eisman; Funky Bass Player: Our main goal when we’re choosing music, are people going to dance to it, that’s our main goal. And are
5 Q / beans & cornbread
are the people gonna dance?For local funky brass band Beans & Cornbread, the answer is always YES.
b y R o b i n C r e m e r • p h o t o b y C o l i n M a c M i l l a n / N a t h a n H a m P h o t o g r a p h y
5 Q / beans & cornbreadwe going to be able to do it well. We’re not going to do a song if we can’t do it well. We’ve tried songs that are great songs but they just didn’t work out for our orchestration, and didn’t work out for the crowd. We tried a bunch of different songs and the end result is get people to dance.Eric Padilla; Funky Vocals and Trumpet: And 90 percent of the suggestions that come to the band we don’t do. Alan is the one who pretty much decides, cause he’s the one who arranges everything. We’re all musicians but these two (Eric and Robert) know how to write out music. So, if it’s a fun song and they think they can arrange it. Robert Kilpatrick; Funky Vocals and Trombone: Because we have so many horns, we have to actually write the music out, you can’t just wing it.What’s been the most unusual cover for you to perform? Eric: Christina Aquilera, Ain’t No Other Man. We played it two or three times, but the vocals were just too high for me.Robert: That and Down, that was pretty unusual. Jay Sean, it’s sort of modern hip hop.The most popular?Eric: The 70s style and when we do our cover of California Love (Tupac), everybody just loves that. Everybody loved our old Stevie song and we got rid of that one and added a different one so we didn’t have to play the same one over and over. Alan: A few years ago, there’s a guy who was holding a Bocce Ball tournament, and had us play. He was a big reggae guy; he wanted us to learn a bunch of reggae and we kept some of it. What are your day jobs?Alan: Air Traffic Control. Robert: I work for the Kansas National Guard.Eric: I’m an advisor with Farm Bureau Insurance.(Lance Quilling on Funky Trombone and Funky Saxophonist Aaron Graverson are high school band directors. Mike Hurla who plays Funky Trumpet is assistant manager of Dairy Queen, while Funky Drummer Lucas Whippo and Funky Guitarist Ross Williams are students at Washburn.) What’s the most unusual place you’ve played at? Alan: That Bocce Ball tournament was one. We’ve done weddings in Illinois, we’re about to do a wedding in Central Kansas.Eric: We played for Washburn. The first years of the band we were a lot more brassy, that New Orleans funk style. And they had a Mardi Gras luncheon and they paid us to come play at lunch and four faculty came in and ate. We were supposed to play two hours. We got paid to rehearse. Alan: We got paid pretty good on that.
Robert: We got paid really good on that. (laughing) aseveneightfive
Catch Beans & Cornbread LIVe at Skinny’s Sports Bar and Grill, 4016 SW Huntoon, Sept. 9 with the Rising Tide
The sign outside may say, “Carry
Out Only,” but it also states, “Home Cookin’ You’ll Love to Take Home.” Stepping into Cora Lee’s, 2511 SE California is a lot like walking into someone’s living room. A small television is tuned to daytime courtroom drama viewable from a comfy living room set. Owner Milton Carr stood ready behind the counter to take my order. After perusing the menu, and asking for suggestions, I got the Sampler Platter: one fried pork chop, 1 fried chicken wing, and one fried fish strip, served with a choice of sides and cornbread. Deliciously sweet, cake-style cornbread.As it was being packed up to go (carry out only, remember), I had time to sit and talk with another customer who came in. Even though she ran a business just down the street, she’d never been in and thought today was a good day to check it out. The atmosphere encourages visiting, and I learned from Milton that the home-style recipes he uses comes from his mom for whom the restaurant is named. I also learned that Milton and I were students at Highland Park at the same time, so we reminisced about the space when it was a Taco Tico. It was a good alternative to cafeteria food, and it was a common gathering spots for Scots such as us. “Have you considered going full-service, or at least dine-in?” I asked, envisioning the space filling with students once again. “If business keeps going the way it is, yeah. It’s going well so far.” The prices are fair and the food is delicious, with a vast menu at several price points. Stop in and get some to go. seveneightfive likes: Cora Lee’s serves James’ beverages out of Kansas City. Locally produced and distributed, the drinks are juice-based and very refreshing. Topeka’s hot weather demands it, so stop in and try it out for yourself. aseveneightfive
seen + noted |
comfort + carry outb y R i o C e r v a n t e s - R e e d p h o t o b y G a r y K r o h e
Cora Lee’s • 2511 S.E. California 785.215.6094
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the spirit of the momentAn interview with Matthew Porubsky
b y D e n n i s E t z e l J r .
{ poetry }
I am looking over the proof copy of Matthew Porubsky’s latest book Fire Mobile (the pregnancy sonnets), which is probably out by the time you read this. I feel honored to both be editor and interviewer for Matt’s book—a true
treasure. To quote Caryn Mirriam-Goldberg, this is a “generative and generous celebration of the sacred feminine” that “shows us the hard-won and shining soul of real love.” dennis: Would you say you have one or more writing processes? What are they?Matt: So, the process starts with a lot of thinking and a lot of music. Lyrics and rhythms inspired me as much as, or even more than, reading poetry. There are some musicians, like Josh Ritter, Sam Beam and Julie Doiron, that I know when I listen to their tunes I will be inspired by any number of lines. From these short lines, that might be of the slightest importance in the song, I be inspired to write an entire poem or series of poems. I think anything I write, poetry or articles, hinges around the idea of “themes.” I can’t help but try and make things work together toward something larger. The way I’m most comfortable writing is this concept of many voices that can come out of one, or combine into one. I guess I always write the same way, just write differently. I mean I have five line poems and twenty page poems, but I am getting at it in the same way. Does that make sense? The spirit of the moment and the original idea for the poem can take me anywhere by the time I sit down to write. There have been poems that I have thought about and taken notes on for years and when I sit down to write them turn into something else entirely, but that is the way it’s supposed to be. I’m telling stories that I feel cater to an honesty inside everyone. I have always wanted to write in a way that any person who would pick up and read it or hear it feel it and know it and can relate to it. I don’t want to confuse anyone or try and sound “literary.” dennis: Was there anything you did differently for your Fire Mobile collection? How did you approach the series?Matt: There was an idea of confinement like I have never done before. Sonnets have always interested me; I try and comply to this form but break away at the same time. I took it a bit farther with this collection and created a confinement for the book as a whole. I split it into three trimesters and only allowed myself one poem for each week or pregnancy. That really isn’t a lot of poems when compared to the wonderful and mysterious changes that are encountered in those 40 weeks or so. I also imposed restrictions on myself as a writer. I wrote the original manuscript when my wife was pregnant the first time and then revised the manuscript during her second pregnancy. I guess you could say I was completely immersed. I was swept up with the process and the images and couldn’t help but bring attention to this incredible construction of life that seems commonplace at times. aseveneightfive
>> buy the book: mppoetry.com
(Weight, Etc.) These new intricacies and additions,both inside and around you, have temperedeach space compressed. Embodied in whimperedsighs, standing on the scale, your condition is weighed in full at its utmost extreme.The numbers spin adding the four extrapounds of blood and a one-pound placenta,amniotic and other fluids seem to make up six more, plus one for each breast,two pounds of nurturing uterus weight,with ten more pounds throughout to illustratewhat it takes to support your baby best, who adds another some seven pounds alone,as the scale stops and you miserably moan.
(Quick-Steadied Footing) You shimmy off the sea-salt of sleeping,unconscious waves of your heartbeats and dreams,one hand below the cloud slowly buildingin your belly which stretches to its seams daily. Off-balanced steps center part-wayacross the veneer, steadied by your breath,as you envision the plotline in playthat changes your aplomb by length and breadth. This embodied growth is partnered throughout - swift draped hair on your shoulders, nails in quickreaching, blouse unbuttoning. This about you is a building, a timpani wick lit and burning the shine of small kindlingto glow as a drumming never dwindling.
“I’m telling stories that I
feel cater to an honesty inside
everyone.”
book artwork by local artist
Stella Robbins
Oct. 10The Raven Book Storew/Leah SewellLawrence, KS | 7p
Nov. 4Blue Planet Cafew/Stella RobbinsArt Show| 6p
Dec. 11w/Begin Again: 150 Kansas PoemsTSCPL | 3-5p
Most Galleries Open ‘til 8:30pBe part of the ArtWalk, call ArtsConnect @271.0065Get a map at artsconnecttopeka.org
(Stretching Wakeup) The small something inside subtly stirsyou to awareness, reaching around deep-rooted dreams, steeping in fog-colored sleep.You both have turned together so long, sure of shared comfort and placement within bounds.Now, this is a scribbling outside the lines,beyond the sinew barrier confinesbelow sheets and skin. You swear you hear sounds of liquid moving as the coil springs longand defined, with formed joints testing limits.It is a firmness pushing set permitsof a union shaped in growth. A new, strong pressure wakes you to the ripening castdiscovering itself from your contrast.
Topeka, Kansas
{ rea
ding
s }
lifestyle
College Hill Tavern
1616 SW 17th Street
Summer Breeze White Patio Yacht PartySeptember 10 | 9p
Sept. 30The Students
7 - 9p
EVERY WEDNESDAYAll Star Band
OPEN JAM NIGHT“Best Jam in Topeka” | 9p
EVERY TUESDAYAcoustic Debauchery
Jeff Toda | 9p
EVERY SATURDAYLIVE, LoCAL MUSIC!weekly
live music
EVERY THURSDAY
DJ Partyw/Groovy Girl | 9p
EVERY FRIDAYKaraoKe
w/Groovy Girl Char |9p
Twenty local and regional artisans will show and sell their work in three large gardens when “art in the garden” opens on
sunday, september 18, from 3:00-7:30p. Included among the works are oil, acrylic and watercolor paintings, jewelry, floral designs, ironwork sculptures, photographs, weavings, hypertufa, pottery, fused glass bowls, charcoal and etched drawings and hand-crafted purses. There will also be an opportunity to win an antique quilt.All three gardens have been featured in the past on Topeka’s citywide garden tours. Since being on tour, each garden has matured and developed in new ways. Primarily a shade garden, the Glatts’ garden features a large variety of hosta and other shade plantings. New additions include a garden house which provides respite from the busyness of life. For new sun garden ideas, the Cavanaughs offer a delightfully decorated garden house, a formal garden and a hypertufa bed located alongside the pergola. Train enthusiasts of all ages will enjoy the garden railroad in the Porters’ garden. Also in this garden, which is located on a quiet cove of Lake Sherwood, are both sun and shade gardens as well as new water features and garden art.“Art in the Garden” is a fundraiser sponsored by Brookwood
Covenant Church. Funds will be used to purchase the supplies for a mission trip to two villages in northern Thailand. While in Thailand, the team of 10, who are paying their own transportation costs, will divide into three groups: a medical team which will see 750 patients; an eye care team which will make approximately 150 prescription glasses at $3 per pair and hand out 500 sunglasses at $1 per pair; and a construction team which will build playgrounds in both villages.The $15 ticket price includes entrance to all three gardens. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 478-3567.tickets will also be available at each garden gate: Glatts: 3107 SW Arrowhead Road Cavanaughs: 3930 SW King Arthur’s Road Porters: 7537 SW 33rd Street. aseveneightfive
art in the gardenb y J o a n P o r t e r * p h o t o s b y D u d e C a v a n a u g h
art in the garden sunday, september 18 3:00-7:30 p
23
tough Kaw
This river of ours is a tough one. You could say that it’s because the state named after it, our beloved Kansas, is also pretty tough. But really, the truth is that our ancestors decided that the river was useless for commerce, so they felt free to build weird dams on it, and couldn’t be bothered to pick up the pieces
when a railroad bridge fell into it. Maybe that was just spite, getting back at the damn thing for all the floods.The Rivermiles organization, organizer of the Missouri 340 race, a multi-day epic canoe and kayak event on the Missouri River, found itself without a race due to prolonged flooding. So eyes turned a very different, but nearby, river, and the Kawnivore 100 was born. Held July 22 to 23—the paddlers were in the river overnight—it was a shorter race, but.
lifestyle
Our river is inhospitable to recreation, with dangerous dams, and sandbars acting as quicksand to canoes and kayaks. The Kawnivore 100 participants trudged through it, losing one of their own in the process.
b y C a l e H e r r e m a n • p h o t o s b y C o l i n M a c M i l l a n / N a t h a n H a m P h o t o g r a p h yP a r t o n e i n a t w o p a r t s e r i e s o n t h e K a n s a s R i v e r
river series
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“You have to earn every mile on this race,” says MR 340 veteran Katie Pfefferkorn. “With the Missouri, you can kind of count on some good currents, where if you need to take ten minutes and just not paddle, you will still be moving. Whereas on this river, you really don’t have that luxury. So every mile that you get is because of more blood, sweat and tears.”The Missouri has been seriously reshaped by the Army Corp of Engineers to be deep, wide and stable enough for barges to carry cargo on it. The Kansas is much closer to a natural state, which means constant change. The Rivermiles website describes it from a paddler’s perspective: “Cornfields that used to line cut banks are now part of the river, and deep channels that you used to count on for easy passage have swapped places with gravel riffles that grab your boat and make you doubt your memory.”David Moore, who competed in the Team division with his brothers, put it this way: “Really low water. Took a lot of effort to get the boat to move anywhere. There were probably thirty straight miles of, every hundred yards you have to pull out of the sand.” Often, this required actually getting out of the boat to push. This did a number on their boat’s paint job, which looked like it had been sanded off on the very bottom.The Moore brothers had two things keeping them going: a strong competitive streak, and the memory of their mother, who had died from colon cancer four years ago. They raise awareness and money
for screening and early detection by using YouTube, Facebook and Twitter to spread the word. (Look up 3 Dudes in a Canoe). Brother Kevin explains: “The original model was like a walkathon, pay me a dollar a mile. That was too complicated, so we just ended up saying, ‘we’re doing this super epic thing, we’re raising money for this cause, donate as you see fit’.”When asked if he actually tweeted during the race, David says no. “I did not. I was too busy pushing the boat through sand.”There was bad news and good news for Topeka in this event. Ryan Moore, a doctor who worked at St. Francis, drowned while attempting to navigate his kayak around the coffer dam, a low concrete structure that directs the river toward the water treatment plant. He was 36, and had been in training for this race.Just across the river from that scene of tragedy, though, was some red-eyed hospitality at Topeka’s Portage Park. The park, only accessible by a gravel road that runs over the top of a levee, was a required stop for race-goers. It has a boat ramp just west of the dam, where they would get out of the water, and then reenter the river through a ramp just east of it. This was partly for safety, and partly to give the paddlers a much-needed break in the middle of the night, early morning, or whenever they showed up.A member of the event support staff, who would only give his name as Darrin, said the Topeka stop was a highlight of the weekend. “It
“Cornfields that used to line cut banks are now part of the river, and deep channels you used
to count on for easy passage have swapped places with gravel riffles that grab your boat...”
25
went well. A drama team [from Topeka West] came out. Did a really good job, bringing food and coffee, and had fruit there, that was real nice.”That stop also made an impression on Pfefferkorn, who was there around 4 AM. “It was really neat and welcoming,” she said, which is nice to hear about Topeka, especially coming from the perspective of someone working their way downstream in this tough river of ours. aseveneightfive
fix the Topeka dam
Topeka is the site of “the most dangerous spot on the entire Kansas River,” according to the Fix the Topeka Dam advocacy group.
Three paddlers have been killed in four years, most recently Dr. Ryan Moore in July, trying to get around the ‘low head’ dam. This concrete structure stretches three-fourths of the way across the river, directing water toward the city’s treatment plant. The ‘notch’ where the water can flow past is where the trouble is.The river falls several feet, and anything that falls with it can be trapped in a “hydraulic,” a looping water current.
“If you can get up, to get a breath of air, you’re immediately pulled back in and pushed down,” says Scott Mansker, river advocate and host of public television show “RiverMiles.” “They found [Dr. Moore’s] boat still stuck in the hydraulic.”Mansker and the others in Fix the Topeka Dam have a solution in mind, and are trying to convince officials with the City of Topeka: “Filling the area immediately below the dam with rock so that the energy of the water is absorbed and spread over a larger area and is no longer capable of trapping people.” The drop-off of the notch would become a slope. “It’s a design that’s been successful around the country. Much simpler, and much cheaper than defending lawsuits,” Mansker says, summarizing the group’s pitch to the city.The group has a petition at: https://sites.google.com/site/fixthetopekadam/petition aseveneightfive
b y C a l e H e r r e m a n
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the south topeka officeb y R i o C e r v a n t e s - R e e d * p h o t o s b y E J D r a k e
seveneightfive delivers the TPS report on the food at The Office Too.
It was only a matter of time before the success of The Office at its downtown location proved that perhaps a second location was in the cards. The Office Too:
Dueling Piano Bar & Restaurant opened Thursday, August 18 at 3251 South Topeka Boulevard [previously Bennigan’s + Boulevard Grill] Three seveneightfivers were invited by chef Rick Seifert to get a sneak peek at the restaurant. Besides the food, the best part was knowing that we could return within five days. Chef Rick, along with Sue Chef Mark Renfro and owner Dan Defendorf have taken the time to create a diverse menu featuring pub favorites up to specials including sashimi-grade Ahi tuna. When Rick and Mark were planning the menu, they wanted to stay in the same spirit as the food that the downtown location was serving, but with a new, larger kitchen and more seating, they knew they could do more and please an expanded palate. The combined experience of the chefs has prepared them for just that.Sous chef Mark Renfro graduated from culinary school in 2008 and for nearly five years apprenticed at the highly regarded Pachamama’s in Lawrence. Knowing executive chef Rick Seifert for 14 years, their paths often crossed as their years of working in the restaurant and bar industry. Rick was just out of the Army when his father told him he’d better learn a trade, and a trade he learned.Both chefs are committed to consistently putting out quality food and are happy for the opportunity to do so at this new location. “I serve comfort food made with a lot of love, but with a lot of culinary knowledge behind it,” said Rick. “Our customers will find our pricing is comparable to many local restaurants, but we strive for better quality. We hope people will enjoy the atmosphere and love the food.”
We think you will. aseveneightfive
Check the Office website to keep up-to-date on live music and dueling piano performances for both locations at www.drinkattheoffice.com.Read the full review and interview at seveneightfive.com
FLAVORLOCAL
Pear and PrOsciuttO salad: Quite a sensation for the tastebuds as each bite presented something new: the sweetness of the honey-dijon-poppyseed dressing, the tartness of the pear, the saltiness of the proscuitto ham, the creaminess of the provolone and crisp of the bibb lettuce.
stacked chicken taMale: By preparing the tamale in the stacked manner, the diner doesn’t have to work for their meal. The masa [made in house] and the spicy chicken are still extremely moist despite not being wrapped. The stacked tamale is highly recommended by our seveneightfive table.
shriMP + grits: This dish is one of Sous chef Mark Renfro faves - applewood smoked bacon-wrapped jumbo shrimp with smoky grits. Topped with a rustic tomato sauce that lends a flavor that kicks the grits into shape. Generous portion and very fulfilling.
ribs w/cOle slaw: “I’m a fan of the ‘dry’ ribs,” said Chef Rick. “When they’re done right, they’re moist, they don’t have to be drowned in sauce.” He was absolutely right. The ribs were prepared with a dry rub giving them a flavorful, peppery taste. A vinegar-based bbq sauce is available for dipping, but seriously, it was not needed. The meat pulled off the bone with a gentle tear of the teeth. Must try. Full + 1/2 slabs available.
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Great coffee, better food!
4010 Huntoon | 228-2001 | www.juliscoffeeandbistro.com
Serving KC Roasterie coffeeEspresso, gourmet lattes, mochas & frozen drinksFreshly made breakfast items & tasty sandwichesFriendly, relaxing atmosphereLive music every First Saturday
Relax at Juli’s: M-F 7a-5p | Weekends 8a-3p
with a new online storefrontwww.warehouse414.com
a high style home furnishings store with an eclectic mix of new designs, antiques and vintage pieces...
414 south east second street | 785.232.8008
Tuesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday: 11a - 5:30 pBy chance or appointment
UPSTAIRSScoTT HolT
Sat. Sept 17Buddy Guy’s blues protege. TIckeTS on SAle now!
NEW MARTINI MENU
Scan this QR Code or visit boscosdowntown.com to view our
new & unique Martini Menu.
PIAno MAnScott Senn every Thursday & Friday
5th + KS | 232.6726 | boscosdowntown.com
DInneR: weD - SAT [5-10]lUncH: M - SAT [11-3]
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Party with Tommy, Bud Light + 785friday, september 23 • 7 - 9 p
Speck’s Bar & Grill • 2105 SW Mission AveBud Light Specials + Giveaways (must be 21)
Follow Us on Facebook for more details.
b y A m b e r B o n n e t t p h o t o s b y C o l i n M a c M i l l a n N a t h a n H a m P h o t o g r a p h y
tell me a little bit about speck’s? We pride ourselves on being a local tradition in Topeka. We’ve been around since 1957. You seriously know everyone’s name and not just give them drinks. We aren’t a sports bar. Everywhere in Topeka seems to be a sportsbar. This is different. It’s a place where you come alone and not be alone.
so it’s kinda like cheers? Yeah exactly.
it’s family day during this behind the bar interview...my whole is family here and you just had a baby, correct? Yes. Scarlett Grace Lewis is 2 months and 7 days old. She’s a super cool baby. I could have brought her, should would’ve just kicked it. Might have been better pictures.
what’s your bartending style in three words? Friendly, fast...and funny. Add alliterative, forgetful and slightly OCD. A clean bar is a happy bar. I don’t like clutter. I like my mugs in the same direction and cups lined up. It isn’t a 5-star dining establishment, but that doesn’t mean it shouldn’t look good.
signature drink? I’ve never been a bartender who took 17 different flavors and mashed ‘em all together. I’m a traditionalist. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. I can make a mean Bloody Mary...haven’t change it since I learned from Aubrey. Made from scratch...secret ingredients (pssst...Porubsky pickles).
drink you hate to make? There’s nothing I hate to make. Some drinks slow me down, but I think the only person that bothers is the guy behind him. We work with a small staff. However, we put out a cool vibe. There’s nothing here to get people worked up. If you are looking for wall-to-wall debauchery, this isn’t the place. Prepare to talk to anybody here.
hangover cure? Yeah, don’t drink. You drink enough of anything, and there is no cure.
bud light behind the bar
your bar is the only one...? Where you can eat a three-pound cheeseburger.
how often does that happen? Last weekend we sold six to seven of them. But usually, it’s a group of people. But there is the challenge - 45 minutes and it’s free. However, that includes the burger and almost three-pounds of fries. If you do it, you would be the second person to do so. There has only been one guy, and he polished a pitcher of beer afterwards. Kind of a local hero.
speck’s gives back to the community, tell me how? We sponsor the Topeka Rugby Team and host all their events. We raise a little money but we love that they are a rowdy bunch and a whole lotta fun. They sing pub songs and throw beer around. They come here for meetings on Thursdays and after
practices on Saturdays.
beards are a trend in this column... Mine is definitely the most trimmed that has been featured. I mean, you had Jefe and then ol’ boy from Boobie Trap. a: what about Johna? I LOVE Johna. She event left me a note when she won last month saying, “I won, you didn’t...ha ha.” Seriously though, she is great...and no, she doesn’t have a beard. aseveneightfive
[TOM
My
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CK’S
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Last issue featured our first female bartender Johna who rocks Terry’s Bar. However, just across the street is another bartender who keeps seveneightfivers’ rocks glasses filled. Tommy Lewis, Speck’s Bar & Grill, serves up extra-large burgers with an extra-large personality.
Over 2000 wine labels.Start your discovery.
Ice& Olives29th & Croco Rd. Topeka, KS 66605 785.215.8460SE 29th & Croco Rd. • Topeka, KS 66605 • 785.215.8460
Knowledgeable staff • Unique selection in all price rangesThe Shops at Thunderbird Square, SE 29th & Croco
Great selection of imported cheeses along with masterful cooking and pairing advice from our staff.
Ice & Olives has Topeka’s BEST sandwiches, made to order with fresh Boars Head meats and cheeses. Stop in for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Deli open all day.
ATTITUDE
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