Arts + Culture

A Timeless Topeka Tradition

Kansas Ballet’s Nutcracker Brings Holiday Magic to Life Article by Amanda Knowland | Photography by Emma Tuttle Each December, the curtain rises at the Topeka Performing Arts Center, and the familiar strains of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker fill the air. Snowflakes swirl, toy soldiers march, and for two enchanting hours, audiences are swept into a world of imagination, tradition, and artistry — brought to life by the Kansas Ballet Company and Academy. At the heart of this holiday...

Life + Culture

Topeka's Santa Ken

The Man Best Known For Bringing Holiday Brightness To Children Article by Linda Ditch As the family photos with Santa Claus are brought out for display, chances are the jolly man with the white beard in the picture is Ken Sutton. Known as Santa Ken, he has been a Topeka Christmas tradition for generations of families. In fact, he's now listening to wishes from the grandchildren of kids who sat on his knee years ago.   This is Santa Ken's 57th season of bringing holiday cheer to children. He...

Life + Culture

Independent Living Plus

This Topeka Retirement Community Allows Residents the Freedom to Do as They Please Article by Linda Ditch | Photography by Kristol Kumar Photography Walk through the doors of Arbor Court Retirement Community, and it's obvious how the word community applies. Just outside the main doors, a woman enjoys a cup of coffee and a book while sitting on an outdoor bench. Inside, some residents are gathered in pairs working on puzzles, while others play cards or enjoy a chat. The tables in the...

Finance + Legal Services

Legacies Built Through Generosity

Joseph Reid helps families align finances with values that last generations. Article by Koshia Silver | Photography by Kristol Kumar Photography If you spend just a few minutes with Joseph Reid, it’s clear his world isn’t organized around spreadsheets or charts — it’s organized around people. One afternoon, he and his wife might be helping a new family celebrate the arrival of a newborn by participating in a church meal train. Another day, they are adopting a family in need for the United Way...