SPLURGE!316 April 2024

Notes From the Publisher & Staff

Teeing up a Season of Golf Adventures

It’s golf season in Wichita, folks, and we’re here for it! Don’t let that statement fool you — we are not amazing golfers. We are subpar golfers (only one of us actually owns a set of clubs), but that doesn’t mean we don’t enjoy the pomp and circumstance surrounding the game.

Golf season means warm weather, green grass, quality time with friends — and charitable golf tournaments. Our favorite is the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas Wichita Open, of which SPLURGE! has been a part for many years (read more on page 8). We are excited to once again be among the tournament’s 50 Ambassadors. Bringing in 50,000 fans over three days, the tournament has thousands of moving parts, and tournament director Dusty Buell and his team do a fantastic job of involving the community (there are 225 sponsors in all), creating a fun and exciting atmosphere for watching professional golf, and contributing to a good cause.

Funds raised this year go to KU Wichita Pediatrics; last year the tournament raised over $300,000 for charity. The tournament is also good for business with an economic impact of $7.5 million on the Wichita area.

But besides all of that, the Wichita Open is just plain fun. It doesn’t get much better than sitting in the grandstands on a gorgeous summer day with a drink in your hand, friends by your side and some amazing golf being played. Up-close interactions with the golfers are common and delightful. It’s just a great event with a great group of people.

You can get your tickets now at wichitaopen.com. Our advice? Hurry, because tickets sell out each year well before play starts at Crestview Country Club, home of the tournament.

Speaking of Crestview, you can read (page 64) about some great improvements the private club has been making this year to its Grand Ballroom, clubhouse exterior, and the pool and tennis facilities. If you’ve been thinking of joining, now is the perfect time with spring weather underway.

And don’t miss our roundup of all of Wichita’s fantastic golfing venues, both public and private, in our golfing guide (page 62). We’ll see you on the greens!

XO, Jody and Amy

12828 E. 13th N., Wichita, KS 67230 316.267.3678

Publishing Company Inspired Koncepts, Inc.

Owners Dr. Terry and Jody Klein

Dr. Dennis and Ann Ross

Steve Ruud

Publisher and President Jody Klein - jody@splurgemag.com

Vice President Amy Palser - amy@splurgemag.com

Associate Publisher Kelsey Ralston - kelsey@splurgemag.com

Editor Karen Long - proofing@splurgemag.com

Account Executives Kim Azaria - kim@splurgemag.com

Holly Bump - holly@splurgemag.com

Debi Devor-Mullins - debi@splurgemag.com

Dawn Tucker - dawn@splurgemag.com

@splurgeict

splurgemag.com

Accounting Firm of Esther M. Mollhagen, CPA

Graphic Design Mitch Gee

Contributing Writers Julie Underwood Burton, Alexis Evans, Paige Feikert, John Huthmacher, Julie Hying, Caroline Jones, Jessika Mayer, Dawn Tucker

Guest Columnists Nahid Holmes, Joseph Spaniol, Amy Sprole

Fashion Photography Tobie Andrews

Local Faces Photography Michael Carroll Jr.

Jody Klein and Amy Palser pose with the SPLURGE! Ambassador flag at the 2023 Wichita Open.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

8

17th Hole: Behind the Scenes

Wichita Open fans can expect upgrades to their favorite party hole, bringing them even closer to the action during this year’s tournament, June 13–16.

16

Supper Club Buddies

Two old friends, Bill Ayesh and Tom Miller, remember the heyday of private clubs in the ’60s and ’70s, when their parents were innovators on the Wichita scene.

24

Help for Low T in Men

Weight gain, erectile dysfunction, reduced sex drive and energy levels are just a few symptoms of low testosterone. Kate Clawson, owner of PharmAssist, offers discreet intervention.

Makenna Miller

Photography:

Tobie Andrews Photography

Location:

Crestview Country Club

56

Freshest ICT Patios

Sauvignon sunsets, plaza pizzas and al fresco ales beckon Wichitans to drink and dine under the sky and stars. Here’s a tantalizing list of local venues offering patio perfection.

58

Michael Downs, Set Designer

After designing Super Bowl halftime shows, Olympic games, major music concerts and much more, this visual architect brings his diverse talents to Roxy’s Downtown.

The 17th Hole: Behind the Scenes

Upgrades Bring Fans Even Closer to the Action

Written by Paige Feikert

Wichita’s premier golf event is getting a makeover, bringing better views for thousands of fans. The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas Wichita Open kicks off June 13 and continues through June 16, and this year the tournament is modifying the grandstands around the 17th hole, known as the “party hole,” to give fans what tournament director Dusty Buell calls the best view on the course.

More than 50,000 fans watch the Wichita Open each year. The tournament is part of the Korn Ferry Tour, a developmental tour for the PGA Tour. According to the Wichita Open, the tournament has an estimated economic impact of $7.5 million on Wichita and the surrounding area each year.

“We want to continue to raise the bar for ourselves, and let people know we’re going to make this the best tournament on the Korn Ferry Tour,” Buell said.

The changes to the grandstands include converting grandstand A from a double decker to two single levels and expanding those seats around the green and along the fairway. Grandstand B will also become a longer double-decker area, and the Wichita Open Chalet will move next to the Ambassador Suite on hole 17. These changes move fans closer to the action.

“What we are trying to do is create a semi-private experience for the businesses who are buying chalets in grandstand A,” Buell said. “Those people who are buying single-day tickets will have one of, if not the best, view on the golf course.”

The Wichita Open has been a staple in the Wichita community for more than three decades. Along with changes to the grandstands around hole 17, the tournament is making other changes, including new beer, beverage and energy drink suppliers and sponsors, a new caterer and a new Pro-Am sponsor.

“There are a lot of things that will function the same, but they will have some differences,” Buell said. “We don’t make changes just to change, we change to be better, we change to add value.”

Alternatively, golf aficionados can expect a lot of the same things they love about the Wichita Open: The tournament will again be played at Crestview Country Club; the tickets are all-inclusive; fans will enjoy competitive golf and the opportunity for up-close interactions with the golfers.

“We’re the only tournament on the Korn Ferry Tour giving players the fan experience they’ll have at the next level,” Buell said. “Having that opportunity to see these guys and watch them on the next level, there’s nothing like it.”

“If you do something and you do it right, people are going to support you, and the significance of the Wichita Open goes beyond the fiscal impact,” Buell said. “At the end of the day, we do this tournament because we want to showcase our city to the world. We also do it because any funds that are raised go back into the community.”

In 2023, the Wichita Open donated more than $300,000 to charities in the Wichita community. This year proceeds benefit KU Wichita Pediatrics.

“To do really good things for this community and families who need help in their most critical times, we make sure the dollars raised go to connecting them with the services they need,” said Buell.

Much of the tournament’s success is thanks to the hundreds of community sponsors. The Wichita Open has 225 sponsors, with the next closest tournament on the Korn Ferry Tour having 110 sponsors. The title sponsor for the tournament is Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas, and about 50 sponsors are part of the Ambassador Program, something Buell calls the backbone of the Wichita Open. He said the program includes a small group of devoted local sponsors who are passionate about the tournament and have kept the tournament alive through difficult times.

“They’re not only the greatest group of people on the Korn Ferry Tour, but it has become the best networking opportunity for the people in that room. It doesn’t get any better than the opportunity every month to sit with our leaders,” Buell said. “The Ambassador Program includes people in this community who want to see this tournament in this community and never want it to leave.”

The grandstands will start going up at at Crestview in mid-May, taking about six weeks to build. In the meantime, Crestview officials work closely with the PGA to perfect the course, meeting the PGA’s requirements for grass conditions, how high to mow the rough, how the greens should roll, weather procedures and more.

“[The PGA] has pretty rigid standards to hand off to Crestview, and Crestview delivers,” Buell said.

For fans anticipating some of the changes this year, Buell said one thing you can always count on with the Wichita Open: a firstclass experience.

“Fans can expect that they’re going to be taken care of, that they’re going to have a great time and those who are there to watch golf are going to see some pretty incredible golf,” Buell said. “My team and I will continue to make this a passion project for this community and for this golf course.”

Tickets for the tournament are available now at wichitaopen.com.

Wichita Open

Korn Ferry Tour

June 13–16, 2024

Wichita

We, the employees/owners, want to express our heartfelt gratitude to our valued customers as we celebrate our 50th anniversary. Your trust and support have been instrumental in our success, and we look forward to continuing to serve you with the largest selection,

lowest prices and outstanding customer service for many more years to come.

& ANSWERS QUESTIONS

Q. Why did you choose healthcare as a profession?

A. I’ve always liked to help people in need. When I was young I participated in several mission trips with my youth group — I believe that’s where it all began.

Q. What’s the name of your business, and why did you decide to open up shop?

A. The name of my business is HomeER. We are a mobile urgent care and primary care clinic. I started the business because I saw a need in the community for an underserved population and wanted to help fill that need. I also saw emergency rooms that were over capacity with very long wait times to see a physician. HomeER gives families a better option than dragging the kids or elderly parents to the emergency to wait and possibly expose them to more illness. When you call HomeER, instead of waiting at the hospital you can stay in the comfort of your home. We also provide primary care to many patients who may be underserved. Although some of our patients are underserved and may be homebound, we are able to see patients of any age.

Q. How can someone utilize your services?

A. Anyone can utilize our services by calling our intake office and scheduling an appointment. That phone number is 316.871.0995. Questions in regard to our services may also be submitted through our healthcare portal at homeerks.com.

With Megan Hawks Owner, HomeER

Q. Do you have any hobbies outside of work?

A. My hobbies outside of work include spending time with family, traveling, running and spoiling the newest addition to the family, our granddaughter.

Q. What do you see in the future for HomeER?

A. We are currently looking for another nurse practitioner who would be able to help with all of the urgent calls, as well as expanding our services to include regular weekend hours. In the future, I would like HomeER to be able to meet the needs of Wichita and surrounding communities without patients having to wait long periods of time away from home to receive treatment.

Alex Melugin’s Healthcare Highlight

Sponsored by Phoenix Home Care & Hospice

President

Phoenix Home Care and Hospice is the regional leader in home healthcare. We provide the full continuum of care services including: home health, comprehensive disease management/palliative care, private duty care and hospice services. Call Phoenix or check out our website to learn more about services for yourself or a loved one.

316.688.5511 · www.phoenixhomehc.com

Alex Melugin,

of Phoenix Home Care and Hospice

Written by Caroline Jones

Are you frustrated by ongoing gut pain and diarrhea that defies most diagnoses or testing procedures? Dr. Terry Klein and his team at AMR hope to improve your gut motility and decrease your pain with their upcoming research surrounding irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea, or IBS-D. Right here in Wichita, you could play a part in the research that is working to provide IBS-D sufferers with access to better medication and a better quality of life.

Q. What is IBS-D?

A. Irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea is a chronic, long-term condition characterized by abdominal discomfort associated with diarrhea. It is currently diagnosed according to the Rome IV criteria, which include belly pain and discomfort during a bowel movement at least one day a week in the last three months. IBS also is a functional bowel disease, which means it causes no identifiable changes in the gut.

Q. How common is IBS-D?

A. We estimate that about 10 to 15 percent of adults in the United States suffer from IBS. Of this number, only about 5 to 7 percent see a provider and receive a diagnosis. It is currently one of the most common diseases that gastroenterologists, or experts in GI diseases, diagnose.

Q. How do you know if you have IBS-D?

A. There is currently no test to definitively diagnose IBS; therefore, in addition to the Rome IV criteria, IBS is usually diagnosed by ruling out other gutchanging problems like colitis, tumors, celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and other definable causes of abnormal functioning.

Q. What do you hope to see from this study?

A. In the past, the treatment for IBS has really been suboptimal. Some other countries use an antiinflammatory medication called Phloroglucinol to treat irritable bowel syndrome, but Phloroglucinol is not currently approved for use in the United States. Though it can provide symptom relief very quickly, the effect also ends very quickly, requiring patients to dose up to six times a day for it to be effective. In this study, we hope to make this medication safer and more patientfriendly by changing the delivery system so it creates a controlled release of the medication over significantly less doses per day. We hope to see a decrease in the frequency of stools, the cramping and pain caused by IBS-D, and the overall symptoms of IBS.

Q. Who is a good candidate for this study?

A. We’re looking for men and women who are over the age of 18 and are suffering from irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea. Candidates suffering from irritable bowel syndrome with constipation will be unable to participate in this study. We also cannot accept people with chronic bowel problems caused by other conditions like colitis, celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease. Potential participants must have undergone a colonoscopy procedure within the time period recommended for their individual case.

Q. What will the study look like?

A. The treatment period for this study will be 12 weeks, with an additional observation period of up to 8 weeks. This study will also include a work-in period to clarify that potential participants are meeting the criteria of the study. As is common with many other trials, participants will be required to keep electronic diaries to help us keep an accurate history of their progress.

How to Participate

To participate in AMR’s IBS-D clinical trial, call 316.867.6329.

Bill and Ted’s Sons Share

Excellent Adventures Of Wichita’s Private Club Scene

Written by John Huthmacher / Photography by Michael Carroll Jr.

During the 1960s and 1970s, private clubs were all the rage in and around Wichita. A revolutionary idea at the time, these clubs offered monthly tab services that allowed members to dress up, let their hair down, and pay later in an upscale, white-linen establishment where they could dine on steaks, consume drinks, dance and enjoy live music alongside familiar faces.

Wichita residents Bill Ayesh and Tom Miller were high school friends and sons of private club owners Bill Sr. and Susan Ayesh and Ted and Norma Werts respectively. (Ted was Miller’s stepfather.) The duo became fast friends during the heyday of these private clubs. The Wichita scene included the Candle Club, owned by Miller’s parents, and Bill Ayesh’s Steakhouse, the Gaslight Club and the Jet Club owned by Ayesh’s parents, who also managed the Shocker Faculty and Alumni Club (situated on the Wichita State Golf Course) and the Hornblower Club in the Ramada Inn.

These clubs, which screened members through an interview process subject to membership board approval, offered a friendly atmosphere much like the one depicted in the popular television series “Cheers.”

“It was kind of like having family around versus the average restaurant,” Miller said. “Someone could walk in and everybody knew their names. That was a nice touch. A customer could stroll in and the owners would say, ‘Hey, Joe, what can I get you tonight? How are your mom and dad and kids? I hear your mother’s been sick. How is she doing?’ You don’t get that at every restaurant.

“Back in its heyday, the Candle Club was the spot to be. It was like a country club without the golf course and swimming pool. You had to apply for membership, and not every Tom, Dick and Harry got in. If you had a reputation for being a bad sort or a strange personality, you probably didn’t make it. It was a way to keep the riff-raff out.”

For families and businesses, the tab that came due each month was an attractive alternative to saving receipts for tax write-off purposes. A $28 membership fee ensured multiple return visits from affluent customers looking to maximize their club experience during its 39-year-run under Werts’ management.

“People didn’t want to pay the dues unless they were going to use the club a lot,” Miller said. “My stepfather came up with the idea (of offering a tab) and had the only license in the state to do it. You could come in, give them your number, and they would give you an itemized statement. It was really convenient not having to keep putting receipts in your pocket and remembering to give them to your bookkeeper.”

To Ayesh, seeing his and Miller’s parents navigating the ins and outs of their operations was a sight to behold. Overseeing the daily management and compartmentalization of each department required a skill set not for the faint at heart, he said. “They kept a thumb on everything — the bar, kitchen, lounge ... it was amazing to watch that whole deal unfold.

“Back in those days, the Playboy Club was just getting started. At the Hornblower Club, I remember my mom and dad ordering Playboy-type outfits for the cocktail waitresses. That was innovative for Wichita. “Everybody who came into those places felt special. Our parents were there to meet and greet everybody. They would take you to your favorite spot, and the food was always good. They put an emphasis on the food being good. That’s where you start; everything else falls into place.”

Both Miller and Ayesh assisted their parents at their clubs through the years. Miller handled mostly after-hours maintenance work, while Ayers served and poured champagne each Mother’s Day. “There would be times I would go in there and help out if they got extremely busy,” Miller said. “On Sundays, I would go and clean up the place real good.”

“On Mother’s Day, the Shocker Club had a champagne buffet that served 300–500 guests,” Ayesh said. “At the end of the line, they offered everyone of age a glass of champagne. I was the champagne guy. It was a great experience for me, watching my folks be successful for so many years. Every morning my dad made a list of things he had to accomplish.”

Bill Ayesh’s parents, Bill Sr. and Susan Ayesh, who owned and managed several supper clubs in Wichita during the 1960s and 70s.

Bill Ayesh and Tom Miller pose next to a photo of Tom’s mother and stepdad, Norma and Ted Werts (black and white photo), who owned The Candle Club when Tom was young.

Both men credit their mothers for ultimately holding club operations together. “Our moms actually ran the clubs,” Miller said. “If you are in business and don’t have the right spouse behind you, you are not going to be successful. Bill’s mother was the brains behind the operation and did the bookkeeping. His dad was the frontman keeping everybody happy.”

Ayesh agreed. “We really learned a lot just observing what our parents did working together running these hour-intensive clubs,” he said. “Our dads were on the financing end of it, but our moms were the straws that stirred the drink, no doubt.”

Though crooner Dean Martin never performed at any of the Wichitaarea clubs, a large painting of him hangs prominently in the Candle Club today, along with a photo of proprietors Ted and Susan. Celebrities who did frequent the Shocker Club included daredevil Evil Knievel and longtime Chicago Cubs and St. Louis Cardinals announcer Harry Caray.

Both Miller and Ayesh remain good friends today, occasionally revisiting the clubs to reminisce about the good ol’ days. Now retired, Miller owes his career in automobile sales and parts to the persuasion of Ayesh, who continues to sell cars at the Hatchett Automotive Group owned by his stepson, Scott Hatchett. Both find it refreshing to see second and third generations frequenting the clubs still in operation today. Just weeks earlier, they attended dinner with their ladies at the Candle Club, which remains a popular destination among locals.

“The new owners have brought a lot of excitement back to it,” Miller said. “They’ve done a wonderful job updating and bringing in new members. Over the years, I’ve gone there often for dinner. It’s nice to see how many generations still go because their moms and dads took them when they were kids.”

“I think the Candle Club owners are doing a good job,” Ayesh said. “It has a nostalgic history and they want to keep that alive.”

Tom Miller and Bill Ayesh pose in a booth at The Candle Club, which Tom’s parents used to own.

DEATH BY CHOCOLATE Exploration Place

Cynthia Avey, Jennifer Willits, Andrea Cook and Juliana Paskiewicz

Jessie Kadlecek, Jaleesa Mitchell and Danielle Pierce

Ben Sauceda, Bryan and Sheila Sauceda and Joel and Kristin Rodell

Andrew and Laura Chase, Elena Davidson and Trevor McCullah

Event judges: Denise Neil, Annett Lawless, Eddy Brotemarkle, Fert The Foodie and Rob Roach

Ashley and Brian Brundage, Kelly and AJ Pickering, Devon Biberstein, Lauren White and Alicia Gardner

Michelle Carroll, Michael Carroll Jr., Arlene Berks and Linda Carroll

Erin McNaught, Jada Shiya and Phailin Rasynouvong

Josef and Christine Seale, Brenan and Christi Herrera, and Jil and Adam Medlam

Chef Salvador and team

Ashley Jones, Shauna Claycomb and Danae Wilson

Alicia Nicholson, Matt Struh, Tammy Loyd, Antoine Pruitt and James Loyd

Michael Harper, Alexe Dukes, Rachel Frank and Drake Dukes

Susan and Dustin DeVaughn’s party crew

Mathew McCormick, Kendra Cordts and John Michael

Michael Fowler, Lindsay Strader, Samantha Beck and Kegan Moller

Kandace and Jason Day, and Kaela and Stephen Wegeng

Kami Tauer, Bryce Lob and Brandi Colbert

Mike and LaDonna Corbin, and Brendan and Ofelia Boales

Kevin Amos, Tracy Rutledge, Cylie Gillespie and Josh Pullen

Michael Vo, Christopher Edward, Timmy Marr, Jacy Brandt, Ashley Brooks and Tawny Vo

Vanessa Schmidt, Danielle Luman, Lydia Meter, Melissa Gouge, Christina and Nick Singer and Jared Schmidt

Kasey Jolly, Rachel Woods, Mandy Trainer, Mindy McPheeters and Gwen Horsch

Mark and Rita Elder, Steve and Lisa Christy and Brian and Carri Davis

Friday, April 19, 2024

6:00 p.m. Cocktails, Silent Auction

7:00 p.m. Dinner, Program, Live Auction, and Dancing Mark Arts, 1307 N. Rock Rd,, Wichita, KS

With BOLDNESS, Comes POWER

Make an incredible impact in the fight against Alzheimer’s by participating in the 2024 Alzheimer’s Association Memory Gala.

Use your power to fight Alzheimer’s in 2024 and beyond.

BE BOLD

Shonna and Drew Jones, Honorary Chairs. Valet parking is provided. Tickets sell out, so get yours today. More information is available at memorygala24.givesmart.com or scan this QR code:

· splurgemag.com

BridgesICT: On-Ramp to Stability

Written by Jessika Mayer

Residents Invited to Become Mentors, Navigators or Advocates for Positive Change

A new initiative is working to serve the under-resourced parts of Wichita — especially those in the city’s top 10 poorest zip codes — one workshop at a time, one class at a time. Called BridgesICT, the initiative not only brings education to those struggling in poverty but trains volunteers to help those with the greatest economic need in the community.

“We have been amazed at people stepping up and wanting to help,” said Diane Awbrey, a BridgesICT organizer. The initiative has gained traction with events attended by key Wichita figures, including Mayor Lily Wu. BridgesICT operates under the umbrella of HopeNet Inc., the faith-based nonprofit organization that has provided mental health services in Wichita for 30 years.

Part of the BridgesICT initiative includes a 16-week course offered to those affected by extreme poverty called “Getting Ahead in a Just-Gettin’-By World.” Adopted and proven in many communities across the country, the course is based on the model found in the book “Bridges Out of Poverty: Strategies for Professionals and Communities” by Ruby K. Payne.

Payne, founder of aha! Process publishing and consulting firms, is a former school teacher and principal who empowers educators and community leaders to address issues of poverty in classrooms, communities, businesses, hospitals, churches and social services. Her practical steps help communities lift individuals, families and entire neighborhoods out of poverty and into sustainability and growth.

HopeNet has been offering Getting Ahead courses for years in the Wichita community. But the initiative took on a new direction when HopeNet’s Jo Lynn Bright approached Lynn Jackson, who works for aha! Process with Payne. Awbrey joined the collaboration to manage logistics and is also trained as a “Bridges Out Of Poverty” presenter.

The initiative has recently grown and gained momentum due to the vision of Bright, Jackson, Awbrey and their colleagues Cerae Smith of Children First; Michelle Martin, formerly of HopeNet; Tasha Hayes of The Neighboring Movement; and Kisha Bell, a Getting Ahead graduate.

“Now, we have eight to 10 organizations that want to start a Getting Ahead workshop this year,” Awbrey said. During the 16-week Getting Ahead course, attendees receive essential support including a meal, childcare and a $25 stipend gift card each week to eliminate barriers that might prevent participation due to living in poverty.

As demand surges, BridgesICT faces the challenge of keeping up with growth. The heart of the initiative lies in its dedicated facilitators, co-facilitators and volunteers who form cohesive support circles, celebrating achievements and milestones throughout the 16-week workshop journey. BridgesICT is working on expanding its online presence to increase awareness and reach more potential supporters.

“Currently we are completely supported by donors. We need to increase our capacity to meet increasing demand,” Awbrey said.

BridgesICT invites all Wichitans to Bridges workshops currently scheduled for May 9, September 18 and November 8 at Wichita’s Advanced Learning Library. “The aim,” Awbrey said, “is to help them to understand the challenges faced by under-resourced people and inspire them to become mentors, navigators or advocates for positive change.”

For more information, to sign up for a workshop or to donate, email bridgesict672@gmail.com.

Diane Awbrey, BridgesICT Coordinator; Sarah Andrews of the Stand Together Foundation and a Getting Ahead facilitator; Tasha Hayes, The Neighboring Movement and Getting Ahead facilitator; Jo Lynn Bright, HopeNet’s Director of Community Impact and Champion of the BridgesICT movement. Sarah and Tasha also lead the Staying Ahead pillar of BridgesICT.

Kisha Bell, graduate of HopeNet’s 2022 Getting Ahead, poses with her Getting Ahead facilitator, Michelle Martin, team leader of the Getting Ahead pillar of BridgesICT.

EAGLE SCOUTS IN ACTION

Eagle Scout Lewis Simmons

Written by Caroline Jones

The Boy Scouts community is remembering with great fondness one of its favorite Eagle Scouts, Lewis Simmons of Augusta, who passed away February 20 at age 93.

He is remembered by those who love him as a gentleman and a scholar, a thoughtful decision maker and a wonderful husband, father and friend.

“I always looked forward to his visits, and I always looked forward to our conversations,” said fellow Eagle Scout Paul Attwater, who enjoyed a long-term relationship with Lewis. “He would always help me think through good decisions and sometimes bad decisions. He was a very special mentor.”

Attwater said this knowledgeable approach to everything was one of the defining parts of Lewis’ character. “I considered him a very astute and intelligent investor, understanding the stock market, the bond market and real estate. He was a very well respected person in the business community and in his church community, and I think part of the reason was because he was always generous with his advice and his input on how to do things better.”

Born at the beginning of the Great Depression, Lewis was no stranger to hard work, but Scouting provided him with a moral compass and a source of camaraderie from an early age. By the end of his life, Lewis listed his highest accomplishments as

becoming a Christian, becoming a husband, and becoming an Eagle Scout (the latter was accomplished in 1946 at age 16).

Lewis’ wife Joann said that spending time together was very important to him. “We just didn’t go many places without the other. He liked to go out to the land that we own; every day he would go out there if he could, but he wanted me with him. He just wanted us to be together. I think the most important thing to him was just to please me and take care of me.”

Joann remembered the tremendous impact Scouting had on Lewis’ life. “He truly believed in following the principles of Scouting,” she said. “It was just instilled into him. He always reminded me of the motto, ‘Be Prepared.’ ”

Quivira Council and Morgan Stanley are proud to bring you Eagle Scouts in Action, a monthly showcase of community leaders who are banding together to make a difference in our community! If you are interested in joining Scouting or have an Eagle Scout in Action you think deserves honoring, call us at 316.264.3386.

Low T Impacts Work, Workouts and Relationships

Written by Paige Feikert

Kate Clawson, APRN-C

Embarrassment can also keep a lot of men from seeking treatment. “I think they’re embarrassed to talk about erectile dysfunction and some of the other symptoms that come with low testosterone levels,” Clawson said. “It affects their relationships, their marriage, and it’s embarrassing to come to a provider and tell them they need to fix this problem.”

Symptoms of low testosterone levels include difficulty concentrating, weight gain, low muscle mass, erectile dysfunction, low sex drive, low energy levels, changes in mood and cognition among less noticeable symptoms such as reduced bone density. “Initially men will come to me because they want weight loss and they have sleep apnea and no energy, but they haven’t had their testosterone levels checked,” Clawson said. “They kind of go handin-hand because oftentimes as men gain weight their testosterone levels decrease.”

According to a 2015 study published in “Urology” where thousands of men between the ages of 18 and 85 were surveyed, more than 36 percent of men tested with low testosterone levels, while only just under 18 percent of them were treated for it. Research suggests that testosterone levels for men decrease by 10 percent every decade; still, low testosterone levels can affect men of nearly any age.

‘Men are doers, they are supposed to be doing and creating, and when they just don’t feel that and they have no energy when they get home from work, it impacts everybody.’

– Kate Clawson, PharmAssist

PharmAssist Offers Discreet Testing and Customized Help

Thousands of men are coping with low testosterone levels, and many of them may not even know.

“I do feel like it’s often missed,” said Kate Clawson, owner of PharmAssist Weight Management & Men’s Health in Valley Center. “Some men never have their testosterone levels tested, and that could be a barrier to getting treatment.”

Clawson’s background is in weight management, with 16 years as a nurse practitioner in bariatric medicine. Through this work, Clawson noticed a trend: Many men dealing with obesity or weight gain suffered from low testosterone levels but didn’t know, and thus hadn’t considered treatment. Clawson says lack of awareness could be to blame along with other barriers, including concerns of side effects such as acne or changes in mood and difficulty finding a provider. That’s where PharmAssist Weight Management & Men’s Health in Valley Center can help.

“I found that a lot of the larger chain men’s health clinics have difficulty giving men a personalized plan,” Clawson said. “I see each patient as an individual; I look at the whole picture, not just their bloodwork.”

Many men fear testosterone replacement therapy due to misconceptions surrounding it, such as an increased risk of prostate cancer and heart attacks, which studies have shown not to be true.

“Some men say testosterone replacement therapy has improved their marriages, their relationships, it’s improved their work performances, it’s making men feel better and get their lives back,” Clawson said. “Many men come in saying they don’t have drive in their lives and feel they can’t fix it. But after treatment, they didn’t realize how bad they felt until they started feeling better.”

Most testosterone therapy involves twice-weekly injections or a daily cream application. Clawson says men can also preserve fertility despite testosterone therapy. If you are experiencing symptoms of low testosterone levels, Clawson says seeking answers can be life-changing.

“Men are doers, they are supposed to be doing and creating, and when they just don’t feel that and they have no energy when they get home from work, it impacts everybody,” Clawson said. “When I see they are enjoying the activities of daily life and their relationships are thriving, it’s rewarding.”

The clinic also offers weight loss medication and therapies, including injectable GLP-1 medications. You can schedule an appointment on their website pharmaweighthelp.com.

Where to Find Them

pharmaweighthelp.com

Do you su er from low testosterone?

• Do you have a decrease in libido (sex drive)?

• Do you have a lack of energy?

• Do you have a decrease in strength and/or endurance?

• Have you lost height?

• Have you noticed a decreased “enjoyment of life?”

• Are you sad and/or grumpy?

• Are your erections less strong?

• Have you noticed a recent deterioration in your ability to play sports?

• Are you falling asleep after dinner?

• Has there been a recent deterioration in your work performance?

REAL PLASTIC SURGEONS. REAL RESULTS.

Looking for a little extra pout or want to get lips that look “just kissed?” Do you have thin lips, a gummy smile, downturned corners of your mouth, or wrinkles above your lips or smile lines? At PSC, you have several options for lip augmentation and enhancement treatments around your mouth and lips.

By Amy Sprole, MD, and Joseph Spaniol, MD Nousette Jefferson Photography | Instagram: @njeffphoto

Lovely Lip Treatments for the Perfect Pout

The Surgical Lip Lift

The lip lift provides a subtle surgical elevation of your lips and is a more permanent solution than injectables. Your plastic surgeon removes skin between the top of your lip’s edge and the bottom of your nose, exposing more of your inner lip. The result is a fuller appearance of your lip without injections. Your surgeon customizes your lip lift based on your goals and unique facial structure. You can expect minimal downtime and risk of noticeable scarring.

The lip lift is popular among Millennials and Gen Z patients, as well as our more mature patients with aging lips. For more youthful results, we can use this procedure alone, with a facelift, or with other facial rejuvenation procedures.

The Lip Flip

The Botox lip flip is perfect for patients who want a pouty look and for their lips to appear fuller without adding volume. It’s generally a more subtle option than lip fillers. By injecting Botox into your lip muscle, it relaxes and lets your top lip gently lift and “flip” upward for a fuller lip.

Lip Fillers

With hyaluronic acid dermal fillers, our staff can add shape to your lips, increase their thickness, fullness and size, and give them a pout. We can also add volume to the fine lines and wrinkles around your mouth and nose area. Results can last up to one year.

At our own PSC Aesthetics, we use Restylane and Juvéderm products. Depending on your goals, our fillers can:

• Smooth moderate to severe facial wrinkles and parentheses lines like the smile lines around the nose and mouth

• Add fullness and volume to smooth out moderate to severe fine lines and facial wrinkles and folds, like the lines from your nose to the corners of your mouth

• Soften laugh lines and help restore a more natural-looking, youthful look to your face while maintaining your facial expressions so you always look like you

• Plump up thin lips

With So Many Options, How Do I Choose?

We want you to feel strong and confident when you’re happy and smiling. If the shape of your lips or wrinkle lines is making you self-conscious, our experts can help you choose the appropriate treatment to enhance your lips and smooth fine lines and wrinkles, so you still look and feel like you.

Our patients don’t have to settle for thin lips, aging lips, wrinkles around the mouth or gummy smiles. If you’re ready to explore your options, please get in touch with us at 316.688.7500!

Before surgical lip lift

Before lip filler

Before surgical lip lift

After surgical lip lift

After lip filler

After surgical lip lift

Written by Caroline Jones

‘Methadone Gave Me a Way Out’

From Homelessness, Drugs and Prison to a Happy and Healthy Life

As a child, Wichita native Meegan Lockwood was no stranger to addiction. Meegan’s father died of a heroin overdose when she was 12, and her mother got off of heroin only to fall into a cocaine addiction by the time Meegan was 14.

“I first got on meth when I was a teenager. My thinking was that if I got on meth and my mom saw that I had gone down that path while she was on crack, maybe that would bring her out of it … but it didn’t. She didn’t care.”

Meegan left drugs behind when she got pregnant at age 22 after six years of addiction, and she remained sober through the following 16 years of parenting, earning an associate’s degree and working as a surgical technician at the hospital.

“I was with their dad on and off for those 16 years,” she said. “He was very mentally, emotionally and verbally abusive, but that was just something that I’d always been used to. They say that girls marry their dads, but I kind of married my mom.”

Meegan said that the mental, verbal and emotional abuse combined with a long life of untreated PTSD and depression finally got to be too much for her. She left, seeking help from a lifelong friend. During this time, she also gained access to methamphetamine, heroin and fentanyl, which propelled her into six years of homelessness. “I was known as ‘the girl that dies all the time’ because I was always having these overdoses on fentanyl and heroin. I just didn’t care.”

In addition to her 12 overdoses, Meegan was arrested 14 times for possession of fentanyl and auto-theft felonies. “Everything I had was stolen,” she said. “When you live out there, you’re a monster. You steal everything, your sense of right or wrong is gone because you just have to put on this monster mask to survive.”

At her lowest point, Meegan was arrested wearing nothing but underwear and a tank top, and she was given two options: prison or drug court. “I was never happier to be arrested than I was at that moment. I was so done, and I was so tired. I just wanted to get back to my kids.”

Choosing to attend drug court, Meegan got connected with Dr. Greg Lakin at Center for Change and began the methadone program. “I tried to get sober a couple times during my addiction, but it never went more than the length of my jail stays because I didn’t have methadone,” she said. “It’s too much. That hole is evil, and it clings on you. It makes you think

it loves you, but it’s like an abusive relationship. You can’t leave it and you can’t let go of it because you get so used to it. Methadone gave me a way out of that.”

After one year and nine months of sobriety, Meegan can’t imagine going back to a life of addiction.

“It’s so doable, especially when you’re in your addiction like that and you’re down there with nothing. When I was arrested, I didn’t even have shoes on; I had nothing. Now, everything I have in my apartment, it’s all bought legitimately, none of it’s stolen. If I was on heroin, I wouldn’t be sitting at work with my car outside and my son at home in my apartment. I have all this now because I was on the methadone program. It was the best thing I could’ve done.”

Meegan Lockwood

GALENTINE’S TEAM PARTY ICT Therapy Works

Marguerite Fredericksen, LPC, LMAC-T, NCC

Carolyn Moore, marriage and family therapist intern

Angela Merwin, student therapist, Marguerite Fredericksen, LPC, LMAC-T, NCC, and Carolyn Moore, marriage and family therapist intern

ICT Therapy Works owner Rachel Pearson, PhD, LCMFT, CST

Melissa Bais, LMFT

ICT Therapy Work therapists

Paula Philson, LSCSW, and Nancy Trout, LSCSW

Chenoa Simmons-Daniels, LSCSW, LCAC, CST

Laura Hodson, LMFT

Angela Merwin, student therapist

Heather Greenberg, PsyD, LP-T

Rachel Pearson, PhD, LCMFT, CST, and Heather Greenberg, PsyD, LP-T

Written by Julie Underwood Burton

Sullivan Hairwear is a new salon concept specializing in hand-tied, human hair toppers for women. Since opening in January, they have helped many women in the Wichita area discover the “joy of great hair.”

Q. How did this journey begin?

A. This is a passion project for me. I hated my hair for many years and had honestly reached the point of desperation. After much research, I discovered the beauty of human hair toppers. They changed my life, and I realized that the Wichita area needed a business dedicated to bringing this joy to other women with hair despair — and voila, Sullivan Hairwear was born.

Q. The concept of hair toppers is fairly new to many women, and those who wear them love them. What are hair toppers and how do they work?

A. A hair topper is a hairpiece designed to cover thinning areas and add volume by clipping into your existing hair. Made from premium quality human hair, our hand-tied toppers blend with your own hair to provide a look and feel so natural they are indiscernible by others.

Q. What is the difference between a hair topper and extensions?

A. Sullivan Hairwear toppers are used to cover specific areas of hair loss or thinning on the top or sides of your head — adding volume and coverage to your existing hair. They can be worn alone or as an addition to extensions. While hair extensions add length and volume to the sides of your hair, they do nothing to provide coverage on the crown where many women experience thinning.

Q. How many colors and types of toppers do you offer?

A. We stock toppers in over 20 colors, in two lengths and two volumes — so we literally have something for everyone, without having to wait. Customers walk out with gorgeous full hair and new-found confidence. It’s instant gratification.

Q. Why should customers get their topper at Sullivan Hairwear instead of the internet or somewhere else?

A. At Sullivan Hairwear, we provide a private consultation and a safe environment for our customers to share their own personal hair journey and desires. Because a topper is a financial and emotional investment, it is critical to get the correct color and volume. We allow our clients to try on as many lengths, colors and volumes to achieve the perfect color match, and our toppers are made out of the highest-quality human hair — 100 percent natural Remy hair that can be cut, colored and curled as if you had grown it yourself. It is hair that is full of life, because it has never been colored before we color it for you. Our stylist also cuts and styles the topper to harmonize with your own hair. From flat to fabulous in 90 minutes!

With Robyn Sullivan Owner, Sullivan Hairwear

Q. How have your customers responded to the Sullivan Hairwear experience?

A. Response from our customers has been amazing. Women who have hair loss can look in the mirror and be “joy-full” about their appearance again, often with tears in their eyes. We hear things like: “I look like me again!” “Aside from having my children, this is the best thing I ever did.” “Thank you for giving me my confidence back. I give presentations for my company and I don’t have to worry about bright lights glaring off my scalp.” “I can’t believe how much extra time I have getting ready each day!” These are just a few of our rave reviews.

For a consultation, go to sullivanhairware.com and click on “Schedule your Consultation.” Consultation fees are waived should the customer decide to purchase a topper.

Owner Robyn Sullivan and Sullivan Hairwear stylist Alli Russell

Run your fingers through our hair Women’s

Seeing is believing! Come run your fingers through our hair at the Women’s Fair. We will showcase our premium line of human hair toppers and conduct in-the-chair consultations and stylings from our booth during the show.

THE LBD, ETC.

316.440.0772

Location - Blush Bookstore

Photography - Tobie Andrews Photography

Models - Impact Models

Styling - Amy Palser

Hair/Makeup - Crave Beauty Academy

Hair - Alaina A, Alissa H, Catherine Z, Larsen D, Kylie H and Maricela O

Makeup - Anna N, Hannah V, Julie R, Cassandra G, Rubi G and Sandy G

4730 E. Douglas 683.2411

CarolynSayresFineJewelry.com

Open Tues. - Sat.

FASHION PASSION 2024

Supporting Rainbows United

The Hampel family and kids served by Rainbows United, Inc., joined forces to showcase the Lexus RX350 donated by Walser Auto Campus being raffled to help Rainbows kids. The Hampels are this year’s Fashion Passion Chairs. “Our entire family has been impacted by Rainbows services over the years, from direct support to seeing how this organization touches the lives of so many in our community,” said Scott Hampel, president and owner of Hampel Oil.

Members of the Hampel family pose with Rainbows United kids at Walser Auto Campus. The Hampels are serving as event chairs for the 2024 Fashion Passion to benefit Rainbows United. Top row: Scott Hampel, Pat Hampel, Staci Terstriep holding Emma, Nate Hampel, Danny Hampel and Jon Hampel. Second row: Demarcos, Tim Hampel, Eden and Angie.

Win a Lexus RX350!!!

You can help families thrive through challenging times by purchasing a ticket to win a Lexus RX350 donated by Walser Auto Campus with George and Jocelyne Laham. The Lexus winner will be drawn as part of Fashion Passion 2024. The winner does not need to be present to win.

Fashion Passion

Fashion runway show, auction, food and drink

Friday, May 10, 6–11 p.m.

Textron Aviation Activity Center rainbowsunited.org/fashion-passion

Secure your table today!

Angie (wearing an outfit from The LBD Etc.)

Demarcos (wearing an outfit from The Gap) with Staci Terstriep, Tim Hampel and Jon Hampel

Emma with Tim Hampel, Staci Terstriep and Pat Hampel

Eden with Nate Hampel, Staci Terstriep, Danny Hampel and Scott Hampel

Musicians, models, influencers, photographers and other local talent converged at the Commerce Club for YBG Studios’ first-ever solo streetwear fashion show. YBG, which stands for Young Bag Getters, is a local streetwear brand located at 600 E. Douglas Ave. in Wichita inside Knockout Sneaker Boutique. The brand prioritizes utilizing sustainable materials by upcycling old textiles and garments to make one-of-one clothing pieces. For more information visit @ybg.studios on social media.

YBG STUDIOS FASHION SHOW Commerce Club

Models Axie Sanchez, Angela Lujano and Amelia Phommachanh

Runway model Katie Dinh

Gavin Sandborn with family and friends

YBG Studios creator Mark Lozada and the event models

Runway model Sammy Ndabaga

Dequan Mitchell, Mark Lozada and Tyren Willis

Models Davonte Harris, Abrianna Raines and Carlos Ruiz

Runway model Jaythan Lutz

Lyric Posey, D’Aydrian Harding, Amahd and Jeremiah (special guest of Mark Lozada)

DJ 4 The WIN: Win Crabtree, Mark Lozada and Davin Slane

Written by Paige Feikert

Attitudes Dancewear Etc. is celebrating 20 years of outfitting dancers across Wichita this May, and its first open house in its new location. Attitudes Dancewear has been a staple in the Wichita dance community since opening its doors in 2004 for dancers of nearly any genre of dance. Last fall, the boutique moved to Douglas and Hillside — the first move in the shop’s history after almost 20 years in Carriage Parkway. SPLURGE! sat down with owner Beth Misek ahead of the milestone anniversary.

Q. Twenty years is a huge milestone; how have you grown over the last 20 years?

A. It’s crazy to me that it’s been 20 years. I was in my twenties when I opened the business along with business partner Lisa Ritchie, who was very instrumental in getting us up and going. She believed in me and gave me the freedom to make my dream a reality. I feel very lucky to get to do what I want to do every day. The dance world itself has grown exponentially — the number of dancers that we see has grown, which means we have been able to expand our space and the products we offer. Wichita, especially, is an artsminded community, so there’s a lot of enthusiasm for dance, and we’re grateful to be part of that.

Q. Where did you discover your passion for dance?

A. I grew up as a dancer in Wichita and was blessed by being able to dance for several teachers in town who were instrumental in my career and my life. I did move away to further my dance career. When I moved back here I was able to fall into this role of having a dance store, and it fulfilled my passion for dance in a different way.

Q. You’ve recently moved to a new location — where can people find you?

A. We were in Carriage Parkway for almost 20 years, so it was very difficult to make the decision to uproot ourselves from that location. But we found a home here in our new spot in Uptown, and it feels like it just matches the style of our store. The building has a lot of character, so the vintage, romantic, eclectic aesthetic of our store is well suited in this very vibrant part of town.

With Shawna Beth Misek Owner, Attitudes Dancewear Etc.

Q. How are you celebrating 20 years?

A. We’re holding our open house May 1–4 during normal business hours, and because it’s our 20th anniversary we’re going to have a 20 percent discount store wide. We haven’t nailed down a lot of the details yet, but we want to make it a big celebration so come join us!

Q. What has contributed to the success of your boutique for two decades in Wichita?

A. I really attribute it to the Lord. He has blessed me in this business and gifted me with a love for dance itself. But we’re also one of the last remaining full-service stores. Going shopping even 30 years ago was a different experience than it is in today’s world. People knew your name, they knew your preferences, and they knew your size without even asking when you walked into your local store. So we try to carry that old-fashioned quality of knowledgeable service into the shopper’s experience here at Attitudes rather than being just a retail store. I think that’s what brings our customers back time and again.

Piazza, Pizza and Pinot

Written by Julie Hying

Patio Perfection in the ‘Ta

With warmer weather offering more outdoor daylight hours and gathering opportunities, why not explore the many beautiful options available for outdoor cocktails and dining? From east to west, casual to formal, family friendly to adult inspired, wine selections to brews only, Wichita has something for everyone.

Across the city, an array of outdoor eating and drinking experiences await. Wichita’s historic Delano District hosts The Monarch, boasting the largest whiskey and craft bourbon selections in the state. With a spacious, lively patio adjacent to the Delano clock tower, it’s a beautiful place to have a drink and watch the sun go down. Other casual options for pizza and drinks include Ziggy’s Pizza in Clifton Square, Ziggy’s East, Ziggy’s West or their location in Auburn Hills.

Old Town, with its cobblestone streets and unique facades, invites diners to consider Public at The Brickyard. Quaint and original, it’s a gorgeous place to enjoy dinner, lunch or brunch with family or friends. For casual lunching options, one might choose The Kitchen, which overlooks the beautiful Union Station or Tanya’s Soup Kitchen situated directly on Douglas. Its shaded piazza is a perfect area to enjoy their lunchtime menu. All HomeGrown locations also feature outdoor seating with the downtown location adjacent to the ever entertaining Naftzger Park.

Central Standard Brewing

The Pumphouse

The Pumphouse

For live music in Old Town, Mort’s Martini and Cigar Bar boasts a menu of 160 martinis, along with an impressive beer and cigar selection. Patrons return often for the smooth tunes and the cocktail creations. In the Delano District, Alzavino Wine Tavern is a must for wine connoisseurs. They bring modern selections from around the globe to their tables and bar and offer wine tastings to newcomers to the world of wine.

Sports fans and enthusiasts can also find incredible patios. The Pumphouse, a former gas station transformed into view-palooza, offers large outdoor spaces, perfect for partaking in their irresistible pizzas and hanging with friends for a game. A similar westside option can be found at Hurricane Sports Grill. Like the Pumphouse, heaters and unique fans create a pleasant outdoor atmosphere in our ever-shifting Kansas weather.

Wichita offers many upscale restaurants with outdoor availability. For French fare and culinary creations, Georges French Bistro offers an incredible dining experience. Exquisite dishes are cooked fresh in their open kitchen and the patio seating is gorgeous. Further west and along Douglas, the patio at Piatto Neapolitan Pizzeria is the perfect place to enjoy the freshest pizza ingredients cooked in their stone oven, which was designed in Italy and shipped here for the purpose of creating extraordinary pizza.

The downtown area has had a long-time love affair with Larkspur Bistro & Bar. Their pergola-covered dining on the west side creates an upscale, first-class feel. On the east side of Wichita, the courtyard at YaYa’s Euro Bistro is a great place to enjoy time with friends. The fireplace is lovely in the cooler months. In the spring, shade trees canopy part of the patio where one can enjoy appetizers like bruschetta with goat cheese or unforgettable bacon Brussels sprouts. Happy hour specials pertain to drinks, pizzas and appetizers and are some of the best in the city.

Chester’s Chophouse and Wine Bar is where elegant dining meets perfect pairings. Their extensive wine cellar allows patrons to partake by the glass or order an amazing bottle for the table. Lakeside seating is both breathtaking and incredibly relaxing. Current seating is plentiful, and they are hoping to extend their outdoor options this year.

Nestled in College Hill lies the chill ambiance of Wine Dive. Named one of Open Table’s choices for the Top 100 Wine Lists in America, the street-side setting provides a neighborhood feel to enjoy dinner, drinks or other unique finds like an at-your-table s’mores station.

Al Fresco Ales

In the heart of the city as well as its far-reaching perimeters, beer gardens and breweries host hops lovers and provide a vast variety of beer selections and delectable bites.

With a fun backyard feel, Nortons Brewing Company hosts yard games and features friendly competitions to entertain while enjoying a beer with friends. River City Brewing Co. has been serving craft beer and pub faves like pizza for nearly thirty years. With local Kansas-raised beef along with other great pastas and pizzas, it’s no secret why it’s a staple in Wichita.

Near Union Station, PourHouse ICT (by Walnut River Brewing Company) has dozens of beers on tap and serves up tasty favorites like fish and chips. Their attention to detail makes this a great establishment. Located in the original Rock Island Depot, its construction dates back to 1887.

Hopping Gnome Brewing Company’s huge covered patio provides ample seating for their outdoor beer garden. Established with remarkable craft beer 10 years ago, it was the taproom in town.

For German- or Belgian-style beer, Sweet Allie B’s and Limestone Beer Co. is the place to be. Their peaceful patio and food menu prepared and cooked in-house make it a neighborhood favorite. The patio at Central Standard Brewing is a popular place to enjoy a brew. On the weekends, food trucks pull up offering unique and flavorful eating opportunities to accompany the impressive beer selection.

From east to west and so many places in between, culinary creations and beverage options abound. With so many unique establishments and outdoor seating opportunities, we have the perfect dining experience available in our city: something for everyone.

Mort’s Martini and Cigar Bar

Mort’s

Chester’s Chophouse & Wine Bar

YaYa’s Eurobistro

Award-Winning Set Designer Lends

Expertise to Roxy’s

Written by John Huthmacher

A High-School Friendship Pays off Decades Later

Roxy’s Downtown is lucky to have a set designer whose visual art has graced everything from the Super Bowl Halftime Show to six Olympic games. Michael Downs, an eclectic Emmy-nominated designer and Wichita State alum, lived in 27 locations around the globe before moving back to Wichita.

Technically a production designer by occupation, the scope of duties assumed over Downs’ 44-year career has evolved from necessity to include experiential designer, creative director, production and scenic designer, environment designer, video content designer, sport production architect, illustrator and storyboard artist. His work on 1,150 projects, carried out in 48 countries and all but one US state, has been seen by billions around the world.

“The best way I can say it is that I am a 3-D storyteller,” Downs said. “I dimensionalize whatever the written word is, whether that’s a script, brand campaign, production or playwright’s film script.” His creative visual offerings have been showcased at three Super Bowl halftime shows, six Olympic games, major music concerts and festivals, the Electronic Music Awards, American Rodeo, Broadway and other theater productions, television programs, museums, zoos and corporate meetings, and a Founding Day celebration in Saudi Arabia.

An eight-time theater award winner, his involvement in creating a backdrop for NBC’s live presidential election coverage at Democracy Plaza in Rockefeller Center garnered Emmy consideration. Locally, his work with Rick Bumgardner, artistic director at Roxy’s Downtown, has helped breathe life into 11 on-stage productions at the theater since 2020.

It was Bumgardner whose encouragement helped encourage Downs’ passion for theater production during a chance classroom encounter at Wichita Southeast High School in 1980. “I was an undergraduate school drama teacher at Southeast and Tom Pride, theater director,

needed to be gone from drama class for two-and-a-half-weeks,” Michael was in it. That’s how we met.

“He showed me the artwork he was doing in one of his art classes, and I was just blown away by the creativity and lines he drew. I told him, ‘You have a future, my friend.’ We sort of followed each other at Wichita State, then he went on to do great things theatrically and scenically, and I stayed here doing what I was doing.”

Bitten by the Bug

Already a fan of art and music, Downs was formally introduced to theater his junior year at Southeast by a fellow student, who invited him on a date to attend a Sarah Awards presentation hosted by the local drama department. Though her involvement in the production prevented them from sitting together, he was nevertheless mesmerized by what turned out to be a lifealtering experience.

“I was just going to sit there anyway and they needed somebody to run the lights,” he said. “(Instructor) Tom Pride was backstage with me, and I asked him, ‘What do you have to do to win one of these Sarah Awards?’ That’s when I got super involved in theater. It combined all the things I loved on a large scale: art, music and hanging out with really strange people. I was bitten by the bug, and the rest is history.”

The two friends eventually lost touch through the years, as Downs’ business ventures launched a life of globetrotting that necessitated 27 moves around the world for work-related projects. He has since returned to Wichita where he resides with his wife, Rachel, who owns PAINTology custom-paint solutions in Wichita, and their three children: Olivia, 14; Isabella, 13; and Jackson, 9. It took a lull in Downs’ work schedule to reconnect him with Bumgardner during the pandemic. That encounter led to their first of many projects together. “I hadn’t known about Rick for decades,” Downs said. “During the pandemic, Tom Pride was putting together

Roxy’s artistic director Rick Bumgardner (left) and set designer Michael Downs chat with the set of “A Cabaret Christmas” in the background.

Michael Downs

a show at Roxy’s, a parody of ‘Young Frankenstein.’ They asked me if I wanted to do the show. Because I’m 6-foot-7, they asked me if I wanted to be the monster. I’d never acted before, but the monster just screamed at everyone, so I said yes.

“After a while, I asked, ‘Why isn’t anybody asking me to design the set? That’s what I do.’ And they said, ‘Oh yeah.’ Now we’re working on our 11th show together.”

Larger Than Life

The two men continue to share a high level of respect and admiration for each other, one that has blossomed into a friendship that goes well beyond the confines of their theater work together. “Rick’s impact is unbelievable,” Downs said. “We work to take care of the actors on stage so they recognize their character part and parcel to make it a really good show. Rick understands those elements. He knows what the actors think and need to be successful and where we’re going visually.

“It’s become kind of a family affair. We are really good friends, and my wife and Rick are good friends, too. She paints scenic art for the theater, and our kids have been running around there for years. When you work together and really trust each other, you become friends.”

“Michael is larger-than-life,” Bumgardner said. “Not only is he 6-foot-5 inches tall — or 6-7, with his hair spiked up — but also his personality, his visualization and his ability to see the show from an artistic standpoint. He says I get his set designs and movement. I say his set designs show me the movement.

“He and I collaborated on a project proposal last year outside the theater. His level of trust and that he asked me to help him with that meant a lot to me. His wife paints scenes for us at the theater.

I consider them extended family; their kids, my nieces and nephew. We’re friends outside the theater for sure.”

As the Downs family and Bumgardner ready for the upcoming production of “Cabaret” opening April 4 at Roxy’s, Downs acknowledged his good fortune at finding the ideal career through which to express himself. Having poured his heart and soul wholeheartedly into his work, his achieved level of success mirrors the same illusionary magic that has served to define his projects for more than four decades.

“The sky’s the limit,” he said. “If anybody applies themselves and finds something they love, things just happen. If you do good work, are very interested and creative, and love what you do, it all comes to you. It also helps if you have good stories and are fun at dinner.

“I never expected this as a kid at Southeast High School. I remember my school counselor asking me, ‘Why do you want to learn a foreign language? You’ll never leave Wichita.’ And here I am, 48 countries later and counting. If you are a good collaborator, good friend, show up on time and do your best, you are going to win more than you lose.”

Where to Find Them

Michael Downs at the Vancouver Olympics where he helped with visual work.

PHIL MAY’S BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION

The Candle Club

Jaci Weber and Judy Morris

Sharon Mathis, Phil May and Barbara Baan

Cheryl Wells, Brian Miller and Sharon Mathis

Bob Baldauf and Eileen Klundt

Phil May’s birthday celebration

Phil May, Tina and Doug May and Margie Collins

Brenda Golden-Dupont with Phil May

Margaret and Thomas Graff

Thomas Graff, Phil May and Margaret Graff

Jaci Weber and Chris Hull

Cheryl Wells and Phil May

A Golfing Guide for Wichita’s Best Greens

Written by Alexis Evans / Photos courtesy Visit Wichita

Get out on the green and get your golf on! Wichita is certainly not short on golf courses, offering options that are perfect for all, from the dabblers to the professionals to nature lovers. Wichita has it all!

Arthur B. Sim Golf Course

Located in the heart of the Museum district, Arthur B. Sim Golf Course offers some of the most beautiful scenery that Wichita has to offer. Winding around the Arkansas River with views of classic Wichita sights, the Arthur B. Sim course also includes a full-service golf shop that serves all equipment and apparel needs.

2020 W. Murdock | Wichita, KS | 316.337.9100

Search for Arthur B. Sim Golf Course on wichita.gov.

Auburn Hills Golf Course

This breathtaking course is located within a west Wichita residential development. Auburn Hills, designed by renowned golf course designer Perry Dye, features a fully stocked golf pro shop and a course in which “even the most skilled player will be challenged by the scenic wetlands areas, rolling hills, and tight corridors located throughout this stunning course.”

443 S. 135th St. W. | Wichita, KS | 316.219.9700

Search for Auburn Hills Golf Course on wichita.gov.

Crestview Country Club

This course, designed by renowned architect Robert Trent, is set apart as the only 36-hole Country Club in Kansas. Though this course is only available through membership, it’s the perfect course for both beginner and advanced golf enthusiasts.

1000 N. 127th St. E. | Wichita, KS | 316.733.1344

crestviewcountryclub.com

Macdonald Golf Course

Known among locals as one of the most popular Wichita courses, this stately par 72 course first served as the original Wichita Country Club in 1913. This facility has worked to stay up to date in serving all golfing needs and requests, including the hiring of Jack the Goose Dog, a specially-trained dog whose sole job is to drive away the scads of geese seeking to make their home on the course.

840 N. Yale | Wichita, KS | 316.688.9391

Search for Macdonald Golf Course on wichita.gov.

Reflection Ridge Golf Course

This private golf course is a lovely site for the residents of the Reflection Ridge neighborhood. This beautiful course has played host to many golf tournaments over the years and remains a Wichita treasure.

7700 W. Reflection Rd. | Wichita, KS | 316.721.2192 reflectionridgegolf.com

Rolling Hills Country Club

This private course, known as the Birthplace of the LPGA, “is tailored to offer fun for all from the beginner through the competitive player.” This exciting and challenging course is just one of the many perks of holding a membership to the Rolling Hills Country Club.

223 S. Westlink St. | Wichita, KS | 316.722.4273 rollinghillswichita.com/golf

McDonald Golf Course

Arthur B. Sim Golf Course

Auburn Hills Golf Course

Sierra Hills Golf Club

Billed as one of the “best kept courses in the city,” Sierra Hills is the perfect spot to golf in classic Kansas scenery. This full-scale golf course is a must-visit!

13420 E. Pawnee St. | Wichita, KS | 316.733.9333 sierrahillsgolfclub.com

Tallgrass Golf Club

With distinctive native features and beauty, it’s no wonder that one of Wichita’s most prestigious clubs has been a popular spot since 1981. This membership-only club is ideal for golfers of all skill levels.

2400 N. Tallgrass St. | Wichita, KS | 316.684.4110 tallgrassgolfclub.com

Willowbend Golf Club

Willowbend Golf Club is perfect for a casual day of golfing. As many golfers know, half the fun of getting out on the green is getting to enjoy the outdoors in a casual and relaxed setting, and Willowbend is perfect for that!

8001 E. Mulberry | Wichita, KS | 316.636.4653 willowbendgolfclub.com

Wichita Country Club

Though membership is exclusive at the Wichita Country Club, the golf opportunities make it well worth the effort. With a history reaching back over 100 years, this well-established country club will deliver the golfer’s ideal experience every time.

8501 E. 13th St. | Wichita, KS | 316.634.2882 wichitacountryclub.org

Membership Perks and Updates

Great

Things

Happening at Crestview Country Club

Written by Julie Underwood Burton

Founded in 1921, Crestview Country Club has a broad history of excellence. Though the club has stayed true to its traditions through the years, many exciting updates are happening around the club in recent months.

According to Bailey Piper, membership director, “The history of Crestview is precious and preserved with each phase of change; our members and the public will value the many recent updates and those to come.”

In November, Crestview’s 29,000-square-foot Grand Ballroom was repainted and provides its members an incomparable venue for formal and informal events, including parties, receptions, business meetings and member events. Though members have perks and club incentives, the community of Wichita is welcome to entertain at Crestview by reservation, as the Clubhouse is also open to the public for private events with roomy event space for any occasion and celebration. In the grill and lounge, members enjoy weekly specials prepared by Crestview’s executive chef in addition to an exquisite menu offering a variety of favorite dishes. The grill and lounge can accommodate a varying number of guests, and is a popular spot for all members for dining and socializing.

On the outside, members and guests will also see the changes happening throughout the Crestview grounds. Currently, the exterior of the clubhouse, pool and tennis facilities are all being refaced and, according to Bailey, “More cosmetic updates will be happening throughout the property grounds and are being confirmed daily.”

If you are looking for a peaceful country club that is fun and offers an amazing 36 holes of championship golf course, Crestview Country Club could be home away from home for your entire family. In addition to dining and golf, Crestview offers a spacious fitness center that is open seven days a week, an indoor and outdoor tennis complex, fitness classes and gym, pickleball courts and leagues, plus a resort-style aquatics park.

Notably, Crestview’s award-winning tennis directors are certainly impacting the Wichita community, not only with their one-on-one lesson programs, but also with Crestview-sponsored happenings such as Big Brothers Big Sisters events, United States Tennis Association (USTA) tournaments and clinics that are held for every skill level. Crestview Country Club is also proud to host the Wichita Open each year, which is one of Wichita’s most popular community events attracting over 50,000 spectators.

With summer just around the corner, Crestview’s youth programming will vary from golf, tennis, aquatics, camps and afterschool programs. Bailey exclaims, “We pride ourselves on being a family-oriented club and making sure that the club is something the children enjoy as well. We are introducing our teen events this upcoming quarter, so whether you’re young and just learning a skill or are seasoned in your favorite sport or member event, the club is sure to have something for everyone.”

For information about all of Crestview Country Club’s events and membership opportunities, call Bailey Piper, membership director, 316.733.1344, or go to crestviewcountryclub.com.

Fourteen Kansas women were honored at the annual Shine Awards in conjunction with International Women’s Day. Sponsored by Storytime Village, the awards celebrate women who empower others and improve their communities. The event also helps support Storytime Village’s mission of inspiring a lifelong love of literacy. For more information, visit storytimevillage.org.

SHINE AWARDS

Wichita Art Museum

Shine Award recipient Angela Smith and family

Shine Award recipient Dr. Shareika Fisher and family

Conni Munsaw, Dr. Marché Fleming-Randle and Aron Randle

The Ladies of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority

Shine Award recipient Tabitha Brotherton with family and friends

Storytime Village CEO Dr. Prisca Barnes and event emcee Felicia Rolfe

Wanda Whitworth, Shine Award recipient Natalie Rolfe, Amy Palser and Jackie McGilbray

Shine Award recipient Christina Long, Sheryl Wohlford, Elizabeth King, Sarah Lopez and Kara Johnson

Shine Award recipient Stacie Williamson (center) and fan club

Shine Award receipient LaVonta Williams and Darrin Williams

Donna Rolfe, Chela and Lamont Love, and Barbara Mathews

Philip Stutey, Sharron Matthews and Shirley Murry

Junetta Everett, Janell Longwell, Stacie Williamson and Becky Page

Paris Cunningham, Chartell Grissom and Lily Jackson

Kaitlyn Hernandez and Shine Award recipient Ricayah Hayden

Brenda Amaro, Shine Award recipient Claudia Amaro and Elvia Amaro

Kristen Stinnett and Olivia Dempsey

Dr. Alicia Thompson, Lyteesha Martin, Emile McGill and Lisa Henderson

Dr. Rhea Roger-Knowles and Bernard Knowles

Tyler and Rebekah Miller

Riccardo Harris, Renaire Palmer, Jacob Crowley and Jonathan Long

Katie Brooks, Gabrielle Altenor and Courtney Price-Dukes

Distinctly

by Dawn

Written by Dawn Tucker

Design Spring Decluttering

We did it friends! We all survived the winter months, shorter days and less light. Thank you, Mother Nature, because spring is upon us! I don’t know about you, but longer and lighter days bring my favorite time of year: spring cleaning and preparing to organize, or as trends say, declutter!

To some the thought of organization and cleaning brings a high level of anxiety, and I want to help you make this a fun (yes, I said fun) and seamless process. When I have been asked how long the spring cleaning process should take, there is no right or wrong answer. Honestly, I do little things throughout the year, so this makes it a much simpler process. But for others I understand there’s not enough time in your day to think about spring cleaning or organization. So, take your time, don’t put too much pressure on yourself, and create your own schedule to be done in your own timeframe. I’ve included a simple checklist to help you choose how much or little you want to tackle.

If you know me, I have always loved the phrase “less is more” in all aspects of design, home staging and, yes, even home ownership. The less you own, the easier it is to clean. Gone (thankfully) are the days of cluttered bookshelves, china cabinets or piles on tops of countertops, cabinets, etc. Why, you ask? Because, you have not only spent more money to fill a space, you created more work for yourself because it needs ongoing cleaning.

If you follow these simple steps, you are moving toward a significant emotional health benefit — one that is uniquely tied to control over your environment and creating a stress-free space.

I am going to follow this list and try some new cleaning items on the market. If you follow me on Instagram, I will post my thoughts on what I use and if they work.

Happy cleaning friends!

Spring Testing

Dawn

Entryway/Hallway

█ Sweep and mop floors

█ Dust light fixtures, shelves, and decorative items

█ Organize shoes, coats, and accessories

█ Wipe down door knobs and light switches

█ Clean mirrors and windows

Living Room

█ Vacuum upholstery and under furniture

█ Dust all surfaces including shelves, tables, and electronics

█ Wash curtains or blinds

█ Clean fireplace and chimney

█ Rotate and fluff cushions

Kitchen

█ Deep-clean appliances: refrigerator, oven, microwave, etc.

█ Wipe down cabinets and countertops

█ Scrub sink and faucet

█ Clean inside and behind trash cans

█ Sweep and mop floors

Dining Room

█ Polish dining table and chairs

█ Dust or wash light fixtures

█ Clean table linens

█ Vacuum or sweep floors

Bedrooms

█ Wash bedding, including pillows and duvets

█ Vacuum under the bed and furniture

█ Dust all surfaces including ceiling fans and baseboards

█ Clean mirrors and windows

Bathroom

█ Scrub and disinfect toilet, bathtub and shower

█ Throw away expired cosmetics and toiletries

█ Change shower curtain

█ Unclog drains

Closets

█ Donate or toss old clothes and shoes

█ Pack up winter clothes

█ Dust shelves

Outside

█ Sweep porches, patios and decks

█ Clean light fixtures

█ Wash outdoor furniture

█ Power wash driveway, sidewalks and garage door

█ Clean out gutters

█ Plant flowers and pots

A REPAIR

YOU CAN TRUST

WE CARE ABOUT THREE THINGS: YOU | YOUR CAR | OUR TEAM

Merv Schrag

COLDWELL BANKER ANNUAL AWARDS BANQUET Security 1st Title Banquet Room

Rob Pestinger, Myron Klaassen, Janell Enderson and John McKenzie

Todd Woodburn and Shannon Gaskill

Coldwell Banker west side office

Aja Drake and Todd Woodburn

Adam Crowder and Todd Woodburn

A Team: Nancy Johnson, Marty Schlatter, Deb Gardner, Amelia Sumerell and Lindsey Hess

Sharon West, Leah Lawrence, Gaylin Langhofer and Bryan Sheppard

Business partners: Janell Enderson, Kayla Bass, Kristi Weisbrodt, Todd Woodburn, Debbie Najera, Erin Colby and Lauren Brown

Security 1st Title with Todd Woodburn

Wessel team with Todd Woodburn

Karianne Williams, Aubrey Haley and Shannon Pierce

Coldwell Banker Plaza management team