Flashing lights, a drift of fog and the glimmer of brightly lit laser guns dot a new North Topeka business focused on giving families something to do.

Powell Lazer Tag opened at 1720 N.W. Topeka Blvd. in early November, said owner Danielle Powell. She co-owns the business with her son, Damien Powell.

As a former manager at Toys R Us and then at Walmart, Danielle Powell said, she had the chance to talk with lots of young people. They repeatedly told him there is nothing to do in North Topeka.

Danielle Powell's thought was "I can do something about that," she said. Formerly in the military, she traveled a lot and had been in many fun centers in different cities.

"I'm like, I can take some of that and do that in Topeka," she said.

Along with laser tag, the center offers pool, air hockey and foosball, which are free, and Oculus Rift Virtual Reality game. Charges vary for VR based on which game is played, Danielle Powell said, but they average about $5 per game.

Laser tag is $7 per game per person or $30 for an hour of play.



Danielle Powell said she hopes to build a business that her son will carry on. They both are excited about providing something for kids and families to do together.

"I focus on family for the most part," she said. "I really encourage parents to go play with their kids because ... my biggest thing is there’s so many kids playing video games and doing nothing. There’s no exercise. I’ve got a really big video game. And guess what? You’re getting exercise."

In the first two months of being open, Danielle Powell said, she has marketed primarily through Facebook and by sending flyers to area schools. Getting word out that Powell Lazer is an option for kids and families has been the toughest part of the business so far, she said.

A party room in the back of the building where people can host celebrations has proven to be the most popular option at the business. Danielle Powell said she has had about 20 parties so far.

She also is hopeful a New Year's Eve party, held from 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. on Dec. 31, will draw new customers and offer a chance for more people to become familiar with Powell Lazer. Children 13 years old and older can be dropped off at the facility, although everyone who plays must sign a waiver.

For information about Powell Lazer, visit www.powelllazertag.com.