Shopping

Threads of Love

A Story of Fashion, Family and Faith Article by Kelsey Huber | Photography by Lindsey Wagers/Wagers Photography Moms and daughters share a special bond and sometimes that bond is so strong and shines so brightly that onlookers can’t help but notice. Such is the case with Monica Rivera-Martinez and her two daughters, Jessica and Christina. “My mom was a single mom. Many nights she worked the second or third shift to make ends meet,” said Jessica, the eldest daughter. “We all had to pitch in to...

April 2024

Professional Services

Dear Younger Me

A Local Entrepreneur’s Letter to Her Younger Self Article by Amanda Knowland | Photography by Kristol Kumar Photography Dear Younger April,  As I sit down to write this letter to you, a flood of memories and experiences rushes through my mind, each shaping the person you will become. If only I could reach back through time and whisper words of wisdom and encouragement into your eager, uncertain ears. There is so much I want to share with you. First and foremost, I want to tell you to embrace...

April 2024

Life + Culture

Uncovering Beauty, Dreams, and the Scent of Success

The Somerset Lavender Story Article by Amanda Knowland | Photography by Lindsey Wagers/Wagers Photography At the west edge of rural Topeka lies a hidden gem known as Somerset Lavender. In the summer, you can find rows of the beautiful lavender plants, with their signature purple flowers, nestled within the nearly 10 acres of land owned by Joe and Teryl Studebaker. Despite the serene picture, the journey to establish this farm has been a test of faith, patience, and perseverance. The couple’s...

April 2024

Health + Wellness

Nurturing Bonds

The Healing Relationship Between Patient and Doctor Article by Sue Baldani | Photography by Lindsey Wagers/Wagers Photography When wife and mother Jessica Morton-Williams first felt a lump in her armpit in October 2022, she decided to also check her breasts and discovered a tiny bump. She wasn’t too concerned because earlier in the year she had had a mammogram, and nothing showed. Plus, she was only 42, and cancer didn’t run in her family. To be on the safe side, she saw her doctor. After...

April 2024

Home Services

On the Fence

A Fresh Take on Fence and Deck Maintenance Article by Kelsey Huber | Photography by EcoFresh Power Wash Your home is your biggest investment and it takes a lot of maintenance to keep it looking good. Luckily, some home maintenance projects fall into the DIY category - like deck and fence staining. Or do they? We talked to Nic Luttman of EcoFresh Power Wash and we learned a lot. TCL: Is there a wrong way to stain a wood fence or deck? Luttman: There are actually more wrong ways to do it than...

March 2024

Arts + Culture

Legacy Worth Leaving

Faith, Family and Love Article by Amanda Knowland | Photography by Lindsey Wagers/Wagers Photography When we hear the word ‘legacy’, our minds may fill with ideas of wealth, property or children. For Rick and Tiffani Smith, their legacy is taking shape in the form of faith, family and skillset. Both Rick and Tiffani were raised in homes filled with love and respect, which shaped the values they live by today. “When I was young, I admired my grandpa’s skill with the hammer and steady work...

March 2024

Finance + Legal Services

Piece by Piece

Your Community Resource for Personal Financial Advice Photography by Lindsey Wagers/Wagers Photography As the founder of Link Wealth Strategies, my journey in the world of finance has been driven by a passion for helping individuals live a life filled with joy. At Link, we believe the only way to truly do that is to be at peace. We are proud to help our clients invest in their future, secure their retirement, and leave a lasting legacy. Now, I don't see myself as just a financial advisor; I'm...

March 2024

Real Estate

Your Biggest Investment

Expert Tips for Homeowners, Buyers, and Sellers in Today’s Market Article by Kelsey Huber | Photography by Kristol Kumar For most people, your home is the largest investment you will make in your lifetime. We sat down with Melissa Herdman, a realtor with Kirk & Cobb Realtors, a family-owned company that has been in business in Topeka for over 70 years. We asked her what homeowners need to know about owning, buying, and selling in today’s real estate market. Herdman has been working in real...

March 2024

Sports + Recreation

Get Out and Blaze a Trail!

KDOT & Shawnee County Parks and Recreation Invested Nearly Half a Million Dollars in Nature Trails to Connect Communities Article and Photography by Michelle Terry Shawnee County Parks and Recreation offers nearly 60 miles of beautiful, diverse natural and concrete trails. Roughly 32 miles of paved pathways and about 28 miles of natural surface trails run through forested, prairie, and open natural areas. In 2022, the trail system connected the community via the Shunga, Deer Creek, and Lake...

March 2024

Local Services

Brewster Place Living

A Pinnacle of Exceptional Senior Living Article by Amanda Knowland | Photography by Provided In south Topeka, just west of Topeka Boulevard, sits a sprawling campus, bustling with activity. On these 35-acre grounds, residents enjoy learning opportunities, social experiences, discussion groups, exercise, and more. Here, a new chapter of life begins! This campus is Brewster Place, a retirement community that is 60 years young this year, raising the bar and offering a full continuum of services...

February 2024