SPLURGE!316 August 2023

Animal Antics!

Zookeepers Share Their Wild Tales

IN THIS ISSUE:

Ultimate Back-to-School Fashion

Library Secrets Revealed Baseball Legend Maybelle Blair

Feed a Monkey, Thank a Zookeeper!

Jody has a thing for cute, cuddly monkeys. So it was great fun when shooting the cover for this month’s issue that we landed in a room with Dexter the owl monkey, a cute and sprightly little guy with nimble black fingers and big, inquisitive eyes. He ate apples and craisins out of our hands and let us pet his thick brown fur.

Meeting Dexter wasn’t the only highlight of our trip to Tanganyika Wildlife Park in Goddard. We hung out with zookeeper Dr. Samantha “Sam” Russak (pictured at right), the zoo’s curator of research and welfare. She’s worked at zoos and animal sanctuaries across the country, and Tanganyika is lucky to have someone with her expertise — but that goes for all of the zookeepers at Tanganyika. The vast majority of them have at least a bachelor’s degree; some have master’s degrees or, like Sam, a PhD.

COO LynnLee Schimdt said that’s often a surprise to visitors, who might think of zookeepers as low man on the totem pole, feeding animals and scooping poop. While those are definitely part of the job, the zookeepers are super knowledgeable about animal care and conservation. “As zookeepers, we’re able to say, ‘Hey, I may not make much money but I do have a lot of student debt!”

LynnLee said with a laugh.

She said the next time you’re at Tanganyika, make sure to stop someone in a brown shirt and ask them questions about the animals — you’ll be even more enriched by your visit! “We have the coolest team on the planet,” LynnLee said. “I actually consult with other zoos and aquariums, so I see other teams, and I’m always blown away by the ferocity of our team. I would match our keepers

against any other facility. They work harder, they dream bigger, and they pour their heart and soul into the facility and the guests.”

In honor of the recent National Zookeeper Week, this issue is a thank you to all of the amazing people who care for animals great and small in our community. Keep up the good work! We hope this issue inspires you to visit the Sedgwick County Zoo or Tanganyika if you haven’t been for a while. And if you find yourself in a room with Dexter the owl monkey, make sure you say “hi” from Jody — and throw an extra craisin his way!

XO, Jody and Amy

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

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Contributing Writers Alexis Evans, John Huthmacher, Julie Hying, Karen Long, Lauren “L” Mercado, Amy Palser, Levi Schwertfeger

Guest Columnists Nataliya Biskup, Nahid Holmes, Gregory Lakin, Eric Litwiller, Joseph Spaniol, Amy Sprole, Randy Yeisley

Fashion Photography Darrin Hackney Photography

Local Faces Photography Michael Carroll Jr.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

8 Zookeepers’ Tales

You think your co-workers are difficult? Just imagine a curious gibbon, a giraffe who thinks he’s a cat, a ground sloth with its own pet, and sea lions in distress. These zookeepers wouldn’t have it any other way.

32

Ultimate Back-toSchool Fashion

Kids aren’t the only ones shopping for new backto-school ensembles. Teachers, college students and moms are all arming themselves for fall with practical yet chic fashion and bags. We’ve got all your tips and trends here.

36

Smart Summer Fashion

Breezy suits, floral prints, a genius bag, and sundresses both short and long. These outfits, photographed at the downtown library, will help you celebrate the last glorious weeks of summer.

64 Baseball Legend

Maybelle Blair

In the 1940s, she was a pitcher for the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League. Maybelle Blair’s still going strong at age 96, and will be a featured guest at the NBC World Series, promoting women in baseball.

66 10 Library Secrets Revealed

This list puts the “advanced” in Advanced Learning Library. If you’ve been wanting to record a podcast, print a 3D creation, put your crafting on steroids or seven other surprising activities, librarians are standing by!

Tanganyika Zookeeper

Dr. Samantha “Sam” Russak

Location:

Tanganyika Wildlife Park

Photography: Darrin Hackney

Wildlife Wizards

Meet the Zookeepers of Tanganyika

Written by Alexis Evans

Being a zookeeper isn’t a 9-to-5 job. Feeding animals, providing veterinary care and even scooping poop has to be done every day — even weekends and holidays — and in the most extreme weather conditions. “A couple winters back when we had negative 30-degree weather, our keepers were walking around with icicles on their eyebrows to make sure our animals have what they need,” said LynnLee Schmidt, COO at Tanganyika Wildlife Park.

In the four years Schmidt has been at the helm at Tanganyika in Goddard, she has found herself caring for animals even in her “off” hours, taking home all sorts of critters who needed extra care: binturongs, cavies, kangaroos, goats, otters, lemurs and gibbons, to name a few. “I have them at work with me all day and they go with me in the car ride home,” she said. It’s made for some interesting and comical stories — ones her children, ages 8 and 12, cherish.

Being a zookeeper means going above and beyond what a normal job might entail. “Animal care is hard. Animals die, they leave us, they get sick, and you spend every day pouring your guts into them,” Schmidt said. “It’s a tough job. It’s physically demanding, emotionally demanding, and our team is just bar none. They’re the biggest, baddest team on the planet.” Who are the zookeepers of Tanganyika? In light of National Zookeeper Week, let us introduce you to a few of them!

Frank Hollo

Title: Hoofstock coordinator

Age: 29

How long have you worked as zookeeper? 7 years

If you could work with any animal in the world, what would it be and why?

It would be rhinos, but I already get to do that every day! What is the craziest encounter you have had while working with animals?

The craziest encounters would definitely be animal knockdowns and transports. It is always guaranteed to be an adrenaline-pumping and thrilling experience.

Karen Tracy

Title: Primate team supervisor

Age: 31

How long have you worked as a zookeeper? 6 years

If you could work with any animal in the world, what would it be and why? Sifaka lemurs! I love the way they jump, and their little faces are so expressive. I’m also super passionate about lemurs in general, so any lemur species I don’t already work with would be a dream animal.

What is the craziest encounter you’ve had while working with animals? Recently a guest dropped her phone in the moat right by our Gibbon Island. I tried to bring the gibbons in, and in true lesser-ape fashion, they refused. So I got waders from maintenance and got into the moat while the gibbons screamed at me from the island. I sifted through a bunch of mud and sand and still did not find the phone, but didn’t realize until after that there was a giant hole in the waders. So I came out of the moat completely soaked from shoulders to toes, but with no phone.

Ben Valencia

Title: Lead carnivore keeper

Age: 33

How long have you worked as zookeeper? 10 years

If you could work with any animal in the world, what would it be and why?

I would do almost anything to work with sun bears again, because they look like a person in a bear suit and have such fun personalities. An animal I haven’t worked with but would love to is Pallas’s cats, because they look so grumpy all the time and I think I would have a blast with them.

What is the craziest encounter you’ve had while working with animals?

As silly as it sounds, one of my craziest encounters is having an argument with a giraffe in the middle of a storm, to convince him to go inside. He didn’t understand that being outside when you’re 18 feet tall is not ideal when there’s lightning around. Now this happened many times, but what makes it crazy is how much I loved this giraffe, when cats are by far my favorite type of animal. He was rude, stubborn, had selective hearing, didn’t like to be touched, went by the wonderful nickname “Weather Witch,” and was essentially a cat in personality. Obviously, these are all the qualities you look for in someone you love, but I was lucky enough to be someone he trusted and trained with. He even allowed me to touch him, and I miss him and his cat-like attitude every day.

Cadence McGary

Title: BREZ lead keeper

Age: 26

How long have you worked as zookeeper? 3.5 years

If you could work with any animal in the world, what would it be and why?

I am obsessed with capybaras and walruses. Capybaras are my favorite animals, as I think they have a ton of attitude. As a child, I loved the movie “50 First Dates,” most especially the walruses that “act” in it. They make my inner child so happy!

What is the craziest encounter you have had while working with animals?

I am not a bird nerd, as we affectionately call our bird super fans. I actually never wanted to work with them, so the craziest thing to me is how I have fallen in love with the birds in our care. Our first non-penguin bird to be hand reared is my pride and joy: her name is Lizzo and she is one of my best friends. My favorite animal I have worked with in my career is Mae the gray crowned crane. She taught me so much, both as a zookeeper and a trainer.

Kiana Lucero

Title: Animal experience specialist

Age: 35

How long have you worked as a zookeeper? 14 years

If you could work with any animal in the world, what would it be and why? Sea lions. They are so smart, fun to train and have huge personalities. I also like that they can be worked with in the water as well as on land.

What is the craziest encounter you’ve had while working with animals?

While doing marine mammal rescue my team got a call for a stranded sea lion at the bottom of a few hundred-foot cliff. When we showed up there were actually three sea lions: an adult female and her two pups. They were all emaciated and needed help, and there were only two of us. We had to tag-team the rescue; I netted the adult while the other rescuer grabbed the youngsters and we got them in crates. Then we had to enlist some bystanders to help us carry them back up the cliff!

Dr. Samantha Russak

Title: Curator of research and welfare

Age: 38 years old

How long have you worked as a zookeeper? 12 years (two years at Tanganyika)

If you could work with any animal in the world, what would it be and why?

Orangutans. I have always been fascinated with primates (monkeys and apes) because of how similar they are to humans, but yet also so different. Orangutans are critically endangered, so maintaining populations in human care is very important for the survival of the species, and it would be amazing to be a part of that.

What is the craziest encounter you have had while working with animals?

One of the craziest (and sweetest) encounters I’ve had was while working on an undergraduate research project at the Lincoln Park Zoo. I was there observing some mixed-species exhibits of monkeys and walked by the gibbon exhibit every day. After about a week one of the male gibbons would follow me from one end of the outside exhibit to the other and then run inside to watch me go into the building. I was there for the entire summer and he did this every day. He would also “whoop” back and forth with me to say “hi.”

Marta Malueg

Title: Supervisor of TMC

Age: 28

How long have you worked as a zookeeper? 5 years

If you could work with any animal in the world, what would it be and why?

I would love to work with African elephants in their native habitat. They have incredibly intricate social structures, memories, and emotional intelligence, which I would love to observe personally — and maybe even contribute to their conservation in Africa.

What is the craziest encounter you’ve had while working with animals?

Animals will always surprise me. Everyday is unique. One of the animals I care for at Tanganyika is the two-toed sloth. One of our sloths, Molasses, likes to pretend to be a ground sloth and seems to have adopted the threebanded armadillo living in her enclosure as a “pet” of sorts. Molasses frequently climbs down to the ground, drags herself across the floor, and sticks her head in the armadillo tunnel searching for her friend. It is incredibly cute and quite funny.

& ANSWERS QUESTIONS

Q. What led you to become a pediatrician?

A. You know, I’m not completely sure. In sixth grade I told my dad I wanted to be a pediatrician. No one in our family over three generations in the states had even gone to college. I remember my own pediatrician and thought he was kind and his office was cool. I also remember a friend in grade school whose father was a cardiologist and also our basketball coach. I was not a good basketball player, so I spent quite a bit of time on the bench with him. He would tell me about being a doctor and helping people, so I suppose those were two influences.

Q. Tell us about your roles within UKSM-W?

A. I love working for the state of Kansas and the University of Kansas School of Medicine-Wichita, my alma mater. As chair of the department of pediatrics I get to serve the truly outstanding people who directly care for the children and families in our region by helping them build the programs kids need. In this role I assist with strategy, collaboration and identification of resources. I am constantly inspired and motivated by their expertise, passion and dedication. I also get to support our educational programs, training medical students, physicians learning pediatrics, and other clinicians in the region, such as physician assistants and nurse practitioners. Part of our oath is the willingness to train the next generation and it’s a privilege to do that at KU.

In my role as president of our campus practice plan, the Medical Practice Association, I get to serve the campus and four clinical departments — pediatrics, family medicine, internal medicine and psychiatry — by supporting the diverse clinical operations which are the foundation of our mission. Finally, I do get to just be a doctor sometimes.

Q. How does your partnership with the Korn Ferry Tour benefit your program?

A. Pediatric programs simply are not sustainable without philanthropy, no matter where they are or how they are situated in our country. When I returned to Wichita in 2014, philanthropic support of the department was very limited. I knew we needed to begin the hard work of changing this, and The Wichita Open and Korn Ferry Tour emerged as our most critical partners. Not only do

they provide direct philanthropic support to the department, they also demonstrate trust and leadership in promoting us and our programs to the community.

Q. What would you say to a young person interested in becoming a physician?

A. I believe the only sustaining reasons to pursue a career as a physician are a deep and authentic desire to serve others through dedication to science and to be a great teammate. If you possess those with authenticity, you’ll be successful and weather the inevitable storms.

Q. If you had to choose one, would you rather play a round of golf or go fishing?

A. My two favorite hobbies, but an easy decision. If I am not working or spending time with family, I am either fishing, looking for a place to fish, or drawing about fishing. I love being outdoors and there is something about the connection to water that is important to me. I think fishing satisfies the hunter/gatherer in me, and also stimulates my interest in science. With fly fishing, there are enough rabbit holes to go down when it comes to fish species, entomology, fish behavior, fly casting, etc. that I can get a little lost in it and forget about work or other stressors when I need that.

Alex Melugin, President of Phoenix Home Care and Hospice

With Brian Pate Professor and Chair Department of Pediatrics University of Kansas School of Medicine-Wichita

Roy Turner, past director of the Wichita Open, presents a check to UKSM-W Pediatrics.

look for a better financing opportunity, and make the move when the time is right. You can always change your financing to more favorable terms later, should better rates and products become available. And if rates only get worse, then you’ll be glad you married the house when you did!

Marry Your Dream Home

Written by Randy Yeisley |

Solving the Retirement Puzzle

Many people think that the key to a successful financial plan is knowing how to invest their money. And while it is true that we need to use sound investment principles, how we invest our money is really only part of a successful long-range financial plan. In an ever-evolving political environment, tax planning should most certainly be part of your overall retirement strategy. And what if you or your spouse face a long-term care event due to an unforeseen health crisis? When should you start drawing your social security benefit? How are you going to generate enough income to last as long as you do? These are all important issues that must be dealt with in order to truly have a successful retirement.

TAX PLANNING

We all feel like we pay too much in taxes, but if you look at historical marginal tax rates, you will quickly realize that we are currently at some of the lowest tax rates in history. We live in a political culture in which the government promises more and more benefits. These benefits have a price tag that can only be paid with more and more tax dollars. You need to have a taxfree source of income in retirement so that changes in future tax policy will have minimal effect on your retirement income.

LONG-TERM CARE

What if you or your spouse need long-term care due to an unexpected critical illness? Do you have a plan in place to take care of these additional costs? Our government says that 70 percent of people over the age of 65 will require some level of long-term care for an average duration of three years. How will you pay for it? Whether it is through long-term care insurance or through some other innovative solution, you must have a plan for dealing with these unexpected expenses or your financial plan is incomplete.

SOCIAL SECURITY

When is the right time to draw your social security benefit? Maybe you’re tempted to draw it early because you are fearful that social security might not last. Maybe you plan to wait until age 70 to maximize your benefit. But how do you know what the optimal filing strategy is for your particular situation? A cookie-cutter answer doesn’t work well here. You need to balance maximizing your social security benefit with maximizing the value of your estate. Social security tends to be a significant part of most people’s retirement income, so proper timing can make or break a successful plan.

RELIABLE INCOME

We all want to know how much money we need to be able to retire. This question often comes from the misconception that we retire on our net worth. We actually don’t. We retire on the income that is generated from our net worth. Market volatility, inflation, interest rates and other factors can wreak havoc on our net worth. What you really need is a reliable, sustainable and inflation-adjusted income plan to ensure that you can retire with the lifestyle to which you’ve become accustomed.

BOTTOM LINE

Don’t get sucked into a sales pitch that all you need to do is buy this product or that product. Yes, you will utilize financial products to implement your retirement strategy and yes, some financial products are better than others — but having a comprehensive financial plan will help guide you to the right financial products for your particular circumstances and goals. Seek a financial advisor that can create a comprehensive plan, not just sell you a financial product. It is this plan that will help you successfully solve the retirement puzzle.

Randy Yeisley is a local, independent investment advisor and is the founder and president of Yeisley Financial Group, Inc., located in northeast Wichita. He can be reached by emailing advisor@yeisleyfinancial.com or by calling 316.719.2900.

SNEAK PEEK NIGHT Scheels

The Klim family

Scheels Early Access winners: Nikki Smith, Caleb Cherryholmes, Candace Allenbach, Trent Tholstrup and Kaden Klim

Tom Quillen, Tony Duesing and Phil Thompson

Myra and Tom Devlin, Cheese Johnson and Josh Jones

Eric Hanke, Brandon Roegge and Jordan Frisch

Yves Aka, Tasha McKeever and Parikshya Bhattarai

Elizabeth Farha, Amy Palser, Myra Devlin, Makenna Miller and Desi Ingram

Tasha McKeever, Amy and Brian Palser, Joel Allenbach

Charissima Albright, Nancy Duling, Olivia Carlson and Michael Littleton

Nikki Smith, Isaiah and Elzay Hill

Phil Thompson and Laura Capps

Malaura Epperson, Kevin Jenks, Brian Turner, Paula Giles and Chrissy Robben

Study Drug Looks to Treat Diabetes, Obesity

Written by SPLURGE! Staff

Oral Medication Could Be Alternative to Popular Injectable

A drug being studied in El Dorado could be groundbreaking for those who have Type 2 diabetes, as well as those who are overweight. Dr. Terry Klein, a partner at Alliance for Multispecialty Research, said the medication is similar to Ozempic, but it’s an oral medication as opposed to an injectable one.

Ozempic has made waves in the last year, thrust to fame by TikTok users touting it as a weight loss treatment and even creating a shortage of the drug. The medicine was first approved for diabetes in the U.S. in 2017. It belongs to a group of pharmaceuticals called GLP-1 agonists, which mimic the hormone GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide one).

“GLP-1-type pharmaceuticals are the rage right now,” Klein said. “With this drug being tested, we’re trying to find the dose that gives you the maximum weight reduction and that is oral and cheaper. If you can prove it decreases cardiovascular risk, it goes to the top of the list. The fact that it’s oral and not an injection just makes it easier.” Currently patients taking Ozempic and other similar medications receive a onceweekly injection.

For the drug study, AMR is looking for candidates over age 18 who have Type 2 diabetes and are overweight (a BMI greater than 27). While weight loss is a likely byproduct of the drug, Klein said researchers are most interested in whether the drug successfully lowers cardiovascular risk. “One of the main problems of Type 2 diabetes is a high cardiovascular risk,” Klein said. “Patients are likely to have compromised circulation resulting in issues with their eyes, kidneys, legs or heart.”

The drug is in Phase 3 of testing, which means it was tested with good outcomes on a smaller group of people, and is now being tested on a larger group to provide more data. “With this study, we want to help people lose weight; we want to help them get in control of their blood sugar — but what we really want is to see them have less cardiovascular destruction. If this drug can achieve all those things, then that’s the trifecta.”

All About Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is a prevalent metabolic disorder characterized by the body’s inability to effectively use insulin or the insufficient production of insulin, leading to elevated blood

glucose levels. The chronic condition affects millions of people worldwide and can have severe implications on overall health, particularly the cardiovascular system.

One of the most concerning aspects of Type 2 diabetes is its strong correlation with cardiovascular issues. Elevated blood glucose levels can damage blood vessels and nerves, leading to atherosclerosis and an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Moreover, diabetes often coexists with other cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertension, dyslipidemia and obesity, creating a dangerous synergy that further elevates the chances of cardiovascular complications.

In addition to cardiovascular concerns, Type 2 diabetes can also result in other health complications, including kidney disease, nerve damage (neuropathy), vision problems, and slow wound healing. People with Type 2 diabetes may face an increased risk of losing toes or experiencing other footrelated complications due to a condition known as diabetic foot ulcers. These ulcers are open sores that typically occur on the bottom of the foot or on the toes. If left untreated or poorly managed, these ulcers can lead to severe infections and, in extreme cases, may necessitate amputation of the affected toes or foot.

One of the primary risk factors for developing Type 2 diabetes is an unhealthy lifestyle. A sedentary lifestyle, poor dietary choices high in sugar and unhealthy fats, obesity, and smoking increase the likelihood of developing the disease. Genetics and family history also play a role in predisposition to the condition.

For more information on the Type 2 diabetes treatment study, call AMR El Dorado at 316.600.5127 or visit heartlandresearch.com.

By Nataliya Biskup, MD, Amy Sprole, MD, and Joseph Spaniol, MD

Making a Significant Impact on a Woman’s Life

Breast reduction surgery has one of the highest satisfaction rates of all plastic surgery procedures. After breast reduction surgery, we often hear from our patients, “I feel more comfortable in my own skin, my pain is gone and I am more confident.”

Women commonly feel better about their bodies, their self-esteem improves, and many of their physical aches and pains go away. Most women are so happy with their outcomes they recommend the surgery to their friends.

Aesthetic, Emotional and Functional Benefits

While there are many aesthetic benefits to breast reduction surgery, there are certainly functional and mental ones as well. Having large breasts can take both an emotional and a physical toll.

• Physically, women have a lot of discomfort from the weight of their breasts. They often have ongoing back, neck, and shoulder pain, headaches, breathing difficulty, and uncomfortable sleep. It can be hard to exercise, find clothing that fits, or even perform common activities. Breast reduction surgery frees women of the burden of large breasts by removing tissue and skin to achieve a breast size in proportion with their body, thus alleviating overall discomfort.

• Emotionally, women feel encumbered by their large breasts and the problems they cause. They may suffer emotional distress and their self-esteem can plummet.

After Breast Reduction Surgery

Women are elated to find their breasts are more proportionate to their frames, and because of this, physical and emotional issues improve. In addition, once breasts are lighter, women find that the strain on their back, neck and shoulders disappears. They can also increase their physical movement through running, walking and other aerobic activities comfortably. Their posture improves, as does their sleep.

Emotionally after a breast reduction, women find that simple pleasures like shopping for clothes and wearing a more comfortable bra can change their entire outlook. Women often experience more self-confidence with their more proportioned bodies. Their self-worth increases, and they simply feel more comfortable in their skin.

Insurance Often Covers Breast Reduction Surgery

When it comes to insurance covering your surgery, it’s best to check with your insurance company. While many insurance companies cover breast reduction surgery, it’s important to note that state insurance does not.

How do you qualify with various insurance companies? Generally, you must exhibit the following symptoms:

• Neck, back or shoulder pain

• Rashes under your breasts

• Numbness in your hands

• A doctor’s exam consistent with your symptoms

• Must meet a minimum number of grams removed in each breast based on your height and weight (a different number for everyone)

• Three-week lead time for insurance approval

When to Schedule Your Surgery

Because breast reduction surgery may be covered by your insurance, it’s a good idea to schedule your surgery this calendar year — especially if you have already met your 2023 deductible from other medical needs.

If you want your surgery to take place this year, we need to see you now to begin the insurance approval process. This can take a little while, so please schedule your consultation promptly. In addition, we generally have a two-plus month lead time for surgery scheduling, so let’s get you on the schedule today!

Considering Breast Reduction Surgery?

Meet with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons to find out if it’s right for you. We invite you to take your first step and have a consultation with one of our highly trained plastic surgeons, certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. We’d love to help you meet your goals. Give us a call at 316.688.7500.

Plastic surgery involves many choices; the most important is selecting a surgeon you can trust. Expect exceptional results when you have your procedures performed by plastic surgeons certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, like Dr.

Dr.

and Dr. Spaniol. These specially trained doctors have at least six years of surgical training and experience, with a minimum of three years of plastic surgery.

Sprole,

Biskup,

Nousette Jefferson Photography | Instagram: @njeffphoto

Written by Eric Litwiller

Mental Health Services Making a Community Impact

How MHA’s Mission Goes Above and Beyond

As a high-functioning alcoholic, Bob* maintained both his job and sole custody of his sons, despite his substance use. But after months of financial strain, late bill payments, and eviction notices during Covid, he lost his job and his sons found him on their apartment floor, passed out drunk. Between the lack of parenting and a learning disability, the boys were barely going to school before, which dramatically lessened the chances of them going to college. But now, the financial upheaval of unemployment, the housing uncertainty, the loss of medical benefits for the family, the substance use, and the educational difficulty for the boys created a confluence of events that ran the risk of becoming generational.

Bob was fortunate to find the Mental Health Association of South Central Kansas (MHA). With the wrap-around services offered right here in Wichita, Bob got treatment not only for the substance use, but also for the underlying trauma he experienced as a boy that contributed to his drinking. He also availed himself of MHA’s Supported Employment program. His sons got case management, attended in-school prevention groups to provide sustainable coping skills for the difficulties they were experiencing, and were held accountable for realistic goals over the course of the family’s treatment plan. MHA is working with the family to find them safe and stable housing through their Residential Care division. And as a not-forprofit organization, MHA’s programs were available to Bob and his family regardless of their financial circumstances.

Now, why should you care? Sure, it’s easy to give a rousing, “Good for Bob,” but why does it matter to you? Well, Bob worked for your company. His disproportionate use of the company health insurance was a major contributor to your high premiums. His substance use — even though he came to work — cost you over $20,000 in bottom-line productivity every year. His termination — and the need to recruit and train someone else — cost you over $10,000 that you’re never going to get back. His sons were taking up a significant portion of their school’s resources, so your children weren’t getting the quality of education that your tax dollars were paying for. And with their truancy rates, the odds of them getting any education beyond high school were slim, meaning fewer good candidates for your company. And without MHA, these issues were going to become generationally entrenched, so your kids were going to have the same issues with Bob’s kids that you had with Bob.

Without MHA here in Wichita, Bob was going to get shipped all over the city, the county, the state, for mental health resources that he could afford. So were his boys. And those three schedules would not have taken into account their lack of reliable transportation. In addition, there are no processes to track the treatment plans, likely resulting in either dangerous gaps in services, or expensive duplication.

There are hundreds of families just like this in the Wichita metro area. But as long as there are also people who understand how broadly mental illness impacts the community, there will be households and businesses who support this cause. Few organizations touch you in so many ways, and MHA is honored to be trusted with your investment in the Wichita community. To learn how you can help, call the MHA Office of Donor Advising at 316.651.1241.

SPLURGE! Night Benefitting MHA

SPLURGE! is partnering with the Mental Health Association of South Central Kansas for the upcoming SPLURGE! Night at the NBC World Series. The foodand-drinks event kicks off the long-running National Baseball Congress tournament at Wichita State University’s Eck Stadium. Proceeds from the event will go towards MHA’s mission of helping people with mental health issues in the Wichita area.

SPLURGE! Night at the NBC World Series

Thursday, August 3, 5 p.m.

Farah All-American Club at WSU’s Eck Stadium For tickets, call 316.265.6236 or visit nbcbaseball.com.

*Name changed to protect identity

Written by Amy Palser

Illicit Fentanyl a Continuing Battle in Wichita

Drug Treatment Physician Shares Concerns about Counterfeit Pills

Despite major fentanyl busts by Kansas officers and an increase in public awareness about the dangers of fentanyl-laced pills, it seems the war on illicit fentanyl in Wichita is just getting started.

Dr. Greg Lakin at Center for Change said pressed pills that contain fentanyl used to be $20 to $30 apiece — but heavy supply has driven the price to as little as $1 apiece. “They’re everywhere,” Lakin said. “The supply is just nonstop from south of the border.”

Illicit fentanyl is used to make fake prescription pills that are sold on the street with names like “dirty 30s” or “blues.” People often think they’re buying legitimate oxycodone because the pills look nearly identical, with an “M” on one side and a “30” on the other. The pills may also mimic hydrocodone, Xanax, Adderall and other prescription medications.

The DEA says distributors in Kansas and other states are selling counterfeit pills laced with fentanyl on social media, appealing to a younger audience. Fentanyl is both highly addictive and deadly. A lethal dose of fentanyl is about 2 milligrams, equivalent in size to a few grains of salt. Because counterfeit pills are made sloppily and not up to laboratory standards, the amount of fentanyl can vary greatly from pill to pill. The “one pill can kill” message is extremely accurate, Lakin said; it’s like a game of Russian roulette. Overdose deaths in Sedgwick County have increased 250 percent in the last three years. The majority of patients at Center for Change are in treatment for a pill addiction, but many of them don’t realize they have been taking fentanyl. “Most of our intakes test positive for fentanyl,” Lakin said. “We test their urine and it’s fentanyl only. Some of them are surprised to find out there was no opioid in their heroin or pressed pills — it was strictly fentanyl and a cutting agent powder.”

Lakin said that 15 years ago, most of the Center for Change patients were seeking treatment for abuse of actual prescription pain pills. “They were taking 30, 40 pills a day and were fine, although severely addicted,” he said. “But fentanyl is 100 times more potent than morphine and 50 times more potent than heroin. The majority of patients coming in now have an addiction to illicit fentanyl and it’s actually requiring higher doses of methadone before we can stop all cravings or withdrawals.”

Patients expecting that methadone or Suboxone will immediately stop their cravings often get discouraged within the first couple of days and return to addiction. Lakin’s goal is to get them through the first few days so they can get out of crisis mode, feel a shift back to normalcy and start to think about the future. Once they get to that point, both methadone and Suboxone are highly effective in curbing cravings and helping opioid addicts live a pill-free life.

‘Trying to Solve the Problem’

Lakin has been trying to address society’s drug problem his entire career. Before becoming involved with drug treatment in 1998, he was a Colorado police officer who saw the destructive nature of drugs

firsthand. He was part of a drug addiction task force for three years, and then decided to shift his attention toward the justice side of drug addiction. He got his law degree and worked for seven years as a prosecuting attorney. ”I think I was trying to solve the problem,” he said. “The people I arrested, as you asked them more questions, you realize they are actually good people with an addiction. If you have no money but a $300-a-day habit, you’re going to do stuff you wouldn’t normally do. So a lot of times as a prosecuting attorney when you had the choice to ask for jail or for treatment, treatment was a really good option that worked.”

As he continues to try to address the drug problem in Wichita, Lakin would like to expand Center for Change’s offerings to rural areas. “I talk to people who drive in from 3 hours away to get Suboxone or methadone. In a lot of these smaller towns, they have so many addiction problems, kids are more isolated and treatment centers are scarce,” he said. “I’d like to provide services to more rural areas. Medication-assisted treatment does work.”

Authentic Oxycodone

Counterfeit Oxycodone laced with fentanyl

U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration

Dr. Greg Lakin

Raising Mental Health Access for All

Written by Eric Litwiller MHA Director of Development and

Communications

Going from 40 to 100

Imagine running your company with a 40 percent QA score. Or only having a 40 percent customer retention rate. Or doing an employee survey and finding that just 40 percent of your staff consider your company a good place to work. Is that good enough for you?

For some of the most common mental health concerns in Wichita, that score of 40 percent is what our community gets … at best!

If you know one of the 38,000 Wichitans who lives with a diagnosable depressive disorder each year, only 40 percent are seeking and receiving health care. What about anxiety disorders like PTSD, ADHD, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder or generalized anxiety? Wichita is home to 76,000 strong living with these types of issues — yet only 40 percent seek care for it. And if 40 percent seems low to you, only 10 percent of people living

with a substance use disorder get the help they need, leaving 90 percent of people struggling with alcohol, illicit drugs, and other types of addictions to fend for themselves.

The goal of any mental health organization or professional should be to remove the barriers to, and the stigma of, mental health care, and increase the number of people seeking help. A city, a company, a family, is only as healthy as the least healthy member. Companies like ITC Holdings, Blue Cross Blue Shield and Delta Dental have all made concrete steps to partner with MHA as we work to remove the hurdles and provide care, regardless of financial circumstances. We hope that you will join them by calling 316.651.1241 to discuss the needs and goals of your organization.

THE GRAND GATHERING Wichita Art Museum

John Rolfe, Chris Jones and Judel Saintil

Jackie McGilbray, Christal Adams, Keenan Penn II and Stephanie Maniche

Kaye Monk-Morgan, Matt Michaelis, Carla Eckels, Taishma Council, Junetta Everett, Anne Kraybill, Jaci and Darryl Kelly, and Corinthian Kelly

David and Caryn Bryant, Gwen Duggins and Carlita Stith

Collette Atkinson, Tiffani Hines and Bri Houston

Kianga Crowley, Ricki Ellison and Ti’Juana Hardwell

Breanna Blackford, Kyle and Ricki Ellison

Janae Kelly, Lauren Eckels and Jayda Kelly

Brandy Evans and Diamond Ellis

DJ Super Mario and Jay Crayton

Greg Cole, Kevin Andrews, Karen Cayce and Drake Johnson

Cristal Adams, Angela Scott, Lavonta Williams, Margaret Thompson and Janice Aziz

Ti’Juana Hardwell, Erin Black, Valerie White and Nicole Williams

Taylor and Alyssa Counter

Wallace James, Jaci Kelley, Todd Lewis, Junetta Everett, and Prisca Barnes

Sandrine Lisk, Mercy Umer and Lynn Ogubere

Lorenzo Breckenridge and Darren McGilbray

Wayne Bell, Ben and Erin Hutton, Shantja and Heather Sharel, Sharon Holmes and Lashea Bell

Lavonta Williams, Kaye Monk-Morgan, Juston White, Christal Adams, Cameron and Payton Morgan

Terrin Everett, Kyle Ellison, Payton and Cameron Morgan and Brandon Johnson

Lauren Eckels, Samuel Eckels and Torin Everett

TaDonne Neal, Winston and Carlita Stith, Crystal Haley and Sherri Stewart

TaTyTerria Gary, Brad Richards and JaNeshia Wilson

Miss Kansas Teen Erin Rolfe and Miss Wichita Alexis Smith

‘Look Good, Feel Good, Do Good’

Written by Lauren “L” Mercado

Smart Fashion Tips for Teachers and Students

Whether you’re a teacher, student, professional or the mom who struts down the pick-up line like a runway, this is your ultimate guide to back-to-school fashion.

What happens when you bring together a fashion stylist and a stylish teacher? You get a uniquely comprehensive guide to back-to-school fashion, of course. For this article, I called on my fashionable friend Cara Decker, center director and co-owner of Kumon Math and Reading Center of Wichita, designed to help students develop a love of learning with individualized lesson planning. Decker’s invaluable perspective from inside the classroom for almost a decade takes us beyond the average back-to-school fashion tips. Even if you don’t have students of your own, the back-to-school fashion season includes fun trends that transcend the classroom. With my experience as a fashion stylist and boutique owner, I’ve mastered the art of curating school outfits. This season is about looking for fashion that serves functionality, and it’s a great time for professionals in any industry to shop for the more conservative styles of the season. Leveraging Decker’s professional experience, we’re thrilled to share style advice, ingenious hacks and the latest trends. Let’s build an effortless and seamless back-to-school wardrobe.

Cara Decker’s Tips for Teachers

When I asked Decker for her styling tips, she truly encapsulated the core elements of personal style: “Look good, feel good, do good! As educators, we dedicate so much of our time and energy to our students. But it’s equally important to take care of ourselves. When you feel confident in your appearance and take the time to dress for success, your attitude is going to be much more positive, and that will ultimately impact your students as well,” Decker says. It’s true, when you feel good and comfortable in your outfits it shows, but where do you begin? How do you “dress for success”? Decker shares her top tricks and hacks in the next sections.

Fashion Tips and Hacks for Teachers

• Wear something that fits well but will allow you to move around a lot.

• Keep it semi-formal and professional.

• Dress in layers. A typical school day will have you in and outside the building multiple times a day.

• Always keep an extra pair of flats in your classroom in case you need to switch over to something comfier mid-day.

• Plan your outfit the night before.

• Find stores that offer teacher discounts, like Francesca’s in Bradley Fair.

• Opt for sneakers: They can be worn with a cute sundress or trousers.

• Prefer a heel? Decker says, “I wear short, kitten heels almost every day at work. I love how they dress up a simple pair of slacks, yet are comfortable enough to walk around in.”

• Accessorize with bright-colored accessories or statement jewelry.

Lauren “L” Mercado is a stylist and owner of Social Style. Follow her on Instagram: @styleby.elle This month, Cara Decker joins L to talk about fashion for teachers and students.

It’s All in the Bag

Let me explain why a bag can make or break your start to the day. Imagine this scenario: You’re running late and you’re carrying a plethora of bags. You’re also juggling a water bottle under one arm while somehow managing to hold your cell phone and a full coffee mug in the same hand. A welldesigned bag can streamline everything.

The best bag brand I’ve discovered for any age and profession to avoid commuting chaos is Dagne Dover. Female-founded, this brand offers stylish bags in various colors and functions with strategically designed compartments providing a designated spot for everything — even your water bottle. For students, I recommend the “Dakota” backpack, and for professionals, the “Daily Tote” is perfect. Whether you’re traveling down the street or across the pond, Dagne Dover is the bag for you. You can check out their collection at DagneDover.com.

Shopping Tips

As late August approaches, Kansas weather often feels like a game of tug-of-war: There are the extremes of 100 degrees or 20, with only a few neutral weeks in between. As you step into the stores this month, even if it’s scorching hot outside, it’s wise to start thinking ahead to that first refreshing, crisp morning in September, because it will be here before you know it. Shop for neutral-colored cardigans, sweaters, solid t-shirts and denim in various washes. These versatile pieces provide a solid foundation for any wardrobe.

What about the mayhem that erupts when you’re shopping for the kids, with the kids? Even older children can be challenging during school shopping, as finding their unique style becomes increasingly important in middle and high school. To make this time calm and enjoyable rather than chaotic or frustrating, consider a one-on-one shopping trip with your student. It can be a fun bonding experience for both of you. Creating a fun mood board with your student (or yourself) can make your shopping time more efficient and productive. Once you have a general idea of style preferences, you’ll have a clearer idea of what you’re looking for.

Back to School ’23 Top Fashion Trends

• A feminine take on menswear: Dad’s neckties are in for women this season. Try this trend by styling a tie, an untucked button-up shirt, and a mini skirt. Complete the look with an oversized blazer and platform loafers.

• Mix prints and styles you already own. Take a look through your closet and pull out any pieces you love, mix them up, and you might find a new outfit with pieces you already own. For example, try pairing a plaid skirt with a floral print in cohesive colors.

• 80’s-style matching suit sets are in! This effortless look makes getting dressed easy. One part blazer, one part matching trousers, just add a basic tee.

‘But My Student Wears a Uniform’

If you have ever watched an episode of “Gossip Girl,” you will know that there are many options to add personal touches to a school uniform. As a graduate of Trinity Academy, Decker is no new student when it comes to private school fashion. “I loved showing off my unique style with lots of jewelry and different purses and bags. You can show off your style with fun socks, and different shoe styles, and decorate your backpack. You can even get creative with some hair accessories like headbands and hair clips,” Decker says.

Ingenious Hack for Dressing Your Little Student

A simple hack for getting your young students ready for the day is to purchase a hanging closet organizer with cubbies. This storage solution allows you to label each cubby for a specific day of the week. Think of it as meal prepping, but for outfits. On Sundays, you can fill each cubby with a complete outfit for each day of the upcoming week, including undergarments. In the morning, your child can easily grab the outfit designated for that day. It’s a fun activity to do together with your child or something they can handle independently. Ah, just imagine, your kid getting dressed all on their own, in an outfit that you preapproved! Decker points out that your child’s shoe choice is also important, suggesting “closed-toe sneakers; something they can walk around and play in without slipping off easily.” Also, don’t forget to send a jacket with your kiddo even if it’s still warm outside. The classrooms can get cold, Decker adds.

Local Shopping

Consider making at least a few of your purchases from a small business. I’ve compiled a short list of boutiques for you to explore.

• LBD in Bradley Fair — This boutique is one of my favorites because of its range of price points, styles and accessory options. You can get full outfits, all in one place.

• Aspen Boutique — A Wichita institution, Aspen Boutique has been in the game for a long time, so you can trust they have their clothing curation down. I recommend Aspen for teachers and college students. They carry brands like Johnny Was, which is a great brand for standout pieces to work into your core wardrobe.

• Jewel Angels — Located in College Hill, this boutique is fun. I would even say this shop has the most unique and fun pieces in town. Your fashionista student will have a great time shopping here, as the selection is full of standout pieces.

• Violet’s Closet — This consignment shop is also great fun to explore. You will find sophisticated, high-end pieces that are one-of-a-kind. I can spend hours in Violet’s Closet.

• Marketplace in Augusta — Check out the dedicated fashion section inside this large home and gift shop. I like that you can explore fashion and other trinkets, making it a great place to find an outfit and a gift for your student’s new teacher.

• 2 Beatz Boutique — Located downtown at 320 S. Market St., this boutique is my go-to for workwear. They carry a wide selection of sizes, and cute blazers are their staple. Anything you buy here will be a compliment magnet!

Location - Wichita’s Advanced Learning Library

Photography - Tobie Andrews Photography

Models - Impact Models

Styling - Jody Klein and Amy Palser

ASPEN BOUTIQUE

VIOLET CLOSET

316.612.6988

Orbit and Tiffany Parker

John Saindon and Lena Phommachanh

Richard Brooks and Mark Lozado

Amelia Phommachanh, Amber Buchanan and Ru Fuschelle

Abby Gerben, Zach Sherman and Hannah Sherman

The Williams family

Mark Lozado with family and friends

Kiera Welsh and Theo Garrett

Jai Watson and Mark Lozado

An Lee and Mark Lozado

Diamond Ellis and Brandy Evans

Adia, Kanha, Gideon and Amelia Phommachanh

JODY KLEIN’S BARBIE BIRTHDAY BASH Odd Fellow Hall

Debbie Bequette-Robins and Marquez Sams

Eileen Kludt, Cheryl Wells, Nancy Knapp, Nancy Roberts, Margaret Shook and Harry Bauer

Brian Milledge, Amy Schlader, Curtis Zerr and Angela Pirner

Brian and Amy Palser with Jackie and Darren McGilbray

Designing Women

Barbie Party Planners

Brad and Shanie Rucker with Jody Klein

Leroy and Pat Thompson

Becky Tuttle, Courtney Sendall and Jessika Mayer

Dean Zook, Cynthia Grau, Steve Ruud, Jody and Terry Klein

Christian Kentling and Lindsey Hall

Jody Klein and Debi Schuckman

Darren and Jackie McGilbray, Jody Klein, Ronetta Norris, Tony and Mimi Wakim

Brenda and Tristan Du Pont

Shannon and Avery Hurt, Taci Klein

Traci Orr, Don Vizner, Sundie Campbell, Jody Klein, Nichole Hedges-Campos and Elizabeth Farha

Autumn and Matt Lowen

Tom and Margaret Graff, Jody and Terry Klein

Natasha Park, Courtney Sendall, Becky Tuttle, Jody Klein, Amy Palser, Jennifer Pitt and Mahlia Cromer

Sundie Campbell and Lesley Bruce

Jody Klein, Mzia Gibson, Jennifer Pitt and Sierra Scott

Angela Johnston and Steven Levan

Wendy Root, Taci Klein, Brandon Root and Dana Lonergan

Julie Goldston, Roger King and Vicki Bower Young

Justin and Jessika Mayer

Members of the Annie Up Band with Jessika Mayer

Steve Ruud and Jody Klein

Lance Dixon, Jody Klein, Andrea Dixon and Taci Klein

Kevin and Aphrodite Campbell

Sierra Scott and Harrison Schenk

Kami and Mark Murphy

Ritchie and Holly Bump

Terry and Jody Klein with Debi and Myron Schuckman

Lindsey Hall, Jody Klein, Cathy Mitchell, Mignon Brewster, Angela Pirner and Curtis Zerr

Martin and Tash Park

Korin and Jessika Mayer, Dawn Tucker, Megan McGraw

Therapy for All at ICT Therapyworks

Written by Julie Hying

ICT Therapyworks, headed by owner Dr. Rachel Pearson, has been serving individuals and families since its inception in 2015. What began as an idea that therapy and positive approaches can help anyone has flourished into a peaceful, safe place that continues to make connections and assist people who strive for wellness. Their waiting area is inviting and tranquil with sensory pleasures: soothing music, comfortable seating, and choice hot and cold beverages. Soon they will have a second location available at 22nd and Rock Road in the Tallgrass Executive Office Park.

Pearson shares that she and the 20 clinicians at ICT Therapyworks “understand the importance of inclusivity and confidentiality. Clients can share as little or as much of their lives and situations as feels comfortable for them. We want time spent here with our dedicated providers to foster wellness and be beneficial.”

therapists vary in age, experience and training so they are able to offer a variety of styles and areas of expertise,” Pearson said. “We are a diverse team of therapists sensitive to culture, spirituality, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender and economic status.”

Some find their way to Dr. Pearson and ICT Therapyworks because of a traumatic life event like divorce, loss and grief, sexual or physical abuse, traumatic brain injury or PTSD, among many others. The group offers tools to help survive and navigate through those feelings and find better mental health and stability.

She also notes that clients arrive at her doorstep for a wide variety of reasons. Her goal is to meet people where they are and offer whatever type of counseling they need. Support can look very different from one person to the next. This team seeks to listen intently to client needs and find the right approach for each individual, couple or family. The wide range of therapists helps provide a diverse population with a safe support system on which they can rely. With the many therapies the group offers, this is particularly advantageous. “Our

Others come to the facility looking for a little assistance or useful tools to deal with specific challenges. ADHD, OCD, family conflict, spirituality, parenting or co-parenting issues, relationships, sexual concerns, teen issues, school issues, and self-esteem are just some of life’s many complicated areas that can be supported with therapy. “Our goal is to promote wellness and healthy relationships,” Pearson said.

In addition to her many years of experience as a therapist, Dr. Pearson is a certified sex therapist. She helps couples and individuals with issues like intimacy, pain, lack of satisfaction, infertility and trauma. Dr. Pearson aims to provide support and share her knowledge, years of experience and expertise to help her clients.

Dr. Rachel Pearson

Written by Alexis Evans

Q. Where did you get the idea for Perfect Plate?

A. I became inspired to open Perfect Plate by my own personal weight-loss journey. I also helped my cousin, Julia, lose weight by meal prepping with her weekly. I wanted to help others in the same way, so I offered private chef services to a limited number of customers. I quickly realized that to make a bigger impact I needed to open a meal prep service. I have a food service management degree, so this next step was only natural.

Q. When did you begin your business?

A. I opened Perfect Plate in April 2018, and it feels like my life has been on the fast track ever since, as I have since gotten married, had two children, and opened two additional locations.

Q. Give us a basic rundown of Perfect Plate.

A. Perfect Plate provides healthy, nutritionally balanced, and 100 percent gluten-free meals for people who need a readymade, home-style meal. Customers can stop and shop during open business hours with no pre-order necessary; the meals are ready to go! We also have customized meal plans to simplify life even more. As a wife, mom and business owner, Perfect Plate is a lifesaver for my family and I. There is so much value in knowing that a healthy meal is ready for us to heat, eat and enjoy in just two minutes. I don’t have time to cook, as my daughter and son, 4 years and 6 months, demand most of my time. I stock up my freezer and refrigerator once a week so that we always have options.

Q. What’s been the impact on the community?

A. It’s not just busy parents that need the help; I have all sorts of customers at Perfect Plate, and I love to hear their stories! One mother has a son attending college at WSU who has celiac disease, and she can rest assured that her son has healthy, gluten-free food. Another couple purchases meals for their daughter, who is blind, so she can maintain her independence. My meals are perfect for people who are retired, people who don’t like to cook or don’t have time, people on a weight-loss journey, people who need allergyfriendly options, beekeepers, police officers, farmers, doctors, lawyers — you name it, they come! Perfect Plate can brighten anyone’s life.

Q. How do each of your locations differ from one another?

A. Perfect Plate has three locations: The main hub is in Maize, the downtown Wichita location is in the Garvey building, and we have a satellite location at The Coop and Coffee House in Derby. We do all the cooking at our Maize location, which is then delivered to the Garvey and Derby locations. The downtown location is unique in that it not only has healthy

meals, but also made-to-order paninis, wraps, espresso drinks and fresh pastries. The Coop location has a refrigerator of meals that are delivered every Friday.

Q. Do you have a favorite Perfect Plate meal?

A. I couldn’t choose just one favorite meal, but my top three are the Salisbury Steak, Chicken Cordon Bleu, and Turkey Meatloaf.

Q. What do you love most about owning this business?

A. There are so many reasons! It feels great to be appreciated by the customers. I get to express my creativity through my food and social media outlets, and I love the flexibility that this business provides me as a mom. It is a true blessing that my son can come to work with me most days.

Where to Find Them

Perfect Plate

Gluten-free panini

Chicken cordon bleu

‘PEOPLE, PRIDE, and PROMISE’ with Storytime Village

reluctantly served them. Slowly, other retail establishments in town followed, and this single event sparked other peaceful lunch counter Sit-Ins nationwide, including the most famous in Greensboro, North Carolina, in February 1960, that helped bring about inclusivity and change.

‘Part of the Solution’

Barnes’ own desire to help bring change to the community came out of a lifetime love of learning and literacy and an awareness of the inequities among young readers. “I could see the many challenges and wanted to be part of the solution,” she said.

Written by Julie Hying

Celebrating the 65th Anniversary of Wichita’s Dockum Drug Store Sit-In

The same desire for the celebration of diversity and inclusivity that prompted the famous Dockum Drug Store Sit-In in downtown Wichita is what continues to fuel Prisca Barnes, children’s author and CEO of Storytime Village. Now Barnes’ literacy group is going all out to help celebrate the 65th anniversary of the historic Sit-In.

“People, Pride, and Promise,” an event on August 11, will feature activities to remember the work of the peaceful protest and educate the community about the importance of the Sit-In. Storytime Village will partner with the Kansas State NAACP youth and college divisions to host commemorative learning events and activities, with help from a Humanities Kansas grant.

It isn’t the first time Storytime Village has helped to champion the historic Sit-In. In 2020 Barnes published a children’s book called “People, Pride and Promise: The Story of the Dockum Sit-in,” which was awarded the prestigious Kansas Notable Award.

Prior to the Sit-In, African American patrons at the Dockum Drug Store in Wichita’s historic Dockum building (now the Ambassador Hotel) had to take their food to go and weren’t allowed to eat at the lunch counter, as was the case with many other eateries at the time. But on July 19, 1958, a few African American students filled the drugstore lunch counter stools and calmly asked to be served beverages; their requests were denied.

Students peacefully continued to fill the seats at the drugstore lunch counter each day, birthing a high school and college studentled effort to end segregation in the city. Twenty-three days later, on August 11, 1958, their persistence paid off and the store owner

She was further prompted by a guest on “Oprah” — a Fortune 500 business owner who had sold his company to follow his passion of promoting literacy by backpacking around the world and delivering books to young children. Encouraged by this example, Barnes founded Storytime Village, focusing her endeavors on four key pillars to help move her mission forward: providing access to books, creating family engagement, supporting early literacy, and engaging in advocacy and awareness.

Storytime Village accomplishes this through school and community partnerships, as well as events around the city. One of those is at Naftzger Park where, thanks to a partnership with Wichita Park & Recreation, they feature and celebrate children’s books and read to those who gather there (event dates on the Naftzger website). The organization also partners with PBS Kansas to bring “Storytime

Currently Storytime Village is primarily an outreach program. But construction for a literacy center where kids will gather to learn is forthcoming near Wichita State University, and this partnership will help the organization celebrate its 15th anniversary in the community. Located between 16th and Holyoke and 16th and Fairmount, the 20,000-square-foot facility will foster literacy and learning and a lifelong love of reading.

For more information about Storytime Village’s “People, Pride, and Promise” events and activities on August 11 to commemorate the 65th anniversary of the Dockum Drug Store Sit-In, visit storytimevillage.org.

Village The Show” to Kansans (think “Sesame Street” meets “Reading Rainbow”).

To learn more about events and activities to commemorate the 65th Anniversary of the Dockum Sit-In!

It’s Peach Season!

Bite into Summer Bliss with Sweet and Savory Recipes

Written by SPLURGE! Staff

If you’re lucky enough to nab a carton of ripe summer peaches, no doubt you’ll be enjoying juicy, sweet peach slices for breakfast, lunch and dinner. But don’t forget about all the great things you can make and bake with peaches, both sweet and savory. The fuzzy seasonal fruit can elevate any dish to new heights. Add a touch of sunshine to your culinary adventures this summer!

Fresh Peach Crisp

INGREDIENTS

6 cups fresh peaches, peeled and sliced

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup rolled oats

1 cup brown sugar

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon ground nutmeg

Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving (optional)

METHOD

1. Preheat oven to 375º

Peach Caprese Salad

INGREDIENTS

2 ripe peaches, sliced

8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced

Handful of fresh basil leaves

Balsamic glaze or reduction

Extra-virgin olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

METHOD

1. Arrange the sliced peaches and fresh mozzarella on a platter, alternating them.

2. Tuck the fresh basil leaves between the peach and mozzarella slices.

3. Drizzle with balsamic glaze or reduction and olive oil.

4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Grilled Peach and Chicken Skewers

2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced peaches, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Toss to coat the peaches evenly.

3. Transfer the peach mixture to a baking dish or pie dish.

4. In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar and melted butter until crumbly.

5. Sprinkle the crumb mixture over the peaches, covering them evenly.

6. Bake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the peaches are bubbling.

7. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.

8. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, if desired.

INGREDIENTS

2 ripe peaches, pitted and cut into wedges

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks

1 tablespoon olive oil

2 tablespoons honey

1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Salt and pepper to taste

Wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

METHOD

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, salt and pepper to make the marinade.

3. Thread the chicken chunks and peach wedges onto the soaked wooden skewers, alternating between the two.

4. Brush the marinade over the skewers, making sure to coat them evenly.

5. Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and the peaches are slightly charred.

6. Remove from grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving.

TWILIGHT TOUR

Tanganyika Wildlife Park

Abel and Micah Perez, Kristin Shropshire, Melissa Garcia, Michael and Stephen Prenatt

Kayla Rausch with family and friends

Nate and Julie Hampel, Jessica and Brian Dwyer

Circle C Paving

Alex Mora, Meagan Hymel, Roxann Stevens and Charles Williams

Meghan West, Jason Bell and Laurie Spence

Adrian Moody, Ashton Abrams, LynnLee Schmidt

Matt and Lisa Fouts, Jennifer and Jeremy Durham, Jesse Schild and Gabrielle Walsh

Tell and Krisyn Wood, Cassandra Fazell, Diana and Diego Tovar family

Jarett Raney, Kendall Ladd, Bailey Canning, Cindi Torres, Amber Creed and Taylor Padgett

Joe and Teresa Samia, Brandon and Kelsey Baker, Keith and Ginger Bauer, Aaron and Meghan West

Brandon and Dominique Howard, Alexander Wille

C E L E B R A T E O U R B I R T H D A Y

Upcoming Movies, August 2023

Written by Levi Schwertfeger

Get ready for waves of nostalgia, feelings of hope and excitement, as well as a shirt full of candy you brought from home, because August will be full of movies that will give you all of these things and more. So take a break and grab a date for the theaters this month.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem

August 2, 2023, (PG), directed by Jeff Rowe and Kyler Spears

Whether the classic ninja turtles were part of your childhood, or something from your parents’ generation, this movie will be such a fun watch with the family. With a loaded cast including John Cena, Jackie Chan, Ice Cube and Post Malone, there will be a sense of familiarity throughout the movie. Join the Ninja Turtles while they try to make a name for themselves by taking out Superfly and other mutants.

Gran Turismo

August 11, 2023, (PG-13), directed by Neill Blomkamp, based on a true story

The captivating essence of video games is becoming immersive, and believing you are a part of it — well, now some people will get the chance to truly be a part of theirs. Gran Turismo, a popular and realistic racing simulator, had the attention of many gamers, including an average teenager played by Archie Madekwe. Join him in his journey to make his dream of racing in real life a reality through a series of contests put on by Nissan to find the next great driver for their race.

Blue Beetle

August 18, 2023, (PG-13), directed by Angel Manuel Soto

The trailer for this movie will give you the same feeling as any Spiderman movie. A young man, Jamie Reyes played by Xolo Maridueña, comes in contact with an insect that is not all that it seems and turns into the superhero known as the Blue Beetle. With this new suit of armor given to him by alien technology, called the Scarab, there is no telling what Jamie will be capable of, or what the Scarab has planned for him.

The Hill

August 25, 2023, (PG), directed by Jeff Celentano, based on a true story

If superhero movies are not for you then get ready to see

The Hill. A true story based on the journey of Rickey Hill, a disabled boy from a small town in Texas dreaming his way to the big leagues. This movie will be full of emotion, suspense and hope. The life lesson of never giving up cannot be taught enough, and this movie is our next lesson.

Aspiring teenage driver Jann Mardenborough (played by Archie Madekwe) gets a pep talk from his trainer, Jack Salter (played by David Harbour) in “Gran Turismo.” The film is based on the true story of a teenage Gran Turismo player whose skills took him to professional race car driver.

Eagle Scout Class of 2003

Being a part of Boy Scouts of America and achieving the distinguished rank of Eagle Scout left a positive and permanent mark on Jorge De Hoyos — often in ways he didn’t realize until reaching adulthood. Looking back, he says he has Boy Scouts to thank for his career path and the values with which he operates in his field.

“I think Boy Scouts was instrumental in helping me become the person I am,” said De Hoyos, a criminal defense lawyer in Wichita. “It taught me integrity, and there aren’t many programs that talk about integrity — yet the No. 1 thing an attorney must have at all times is integrity.”

A pivotal moment in De Hoyos’ life came in 2005 as he and his troop summited a mountain at Philmont Scout Ranch, the Boy Scouts High Adventure camp in the rugged New Mexico Rocky Mountains. Watching the sunrise at the top of the peak, the young De Hoyos asked a fellow Scout’s father, Doug Stanley, what he did for a living — something he had never thought to ask before. He learned Stanley was the managing partner at Foulston Siefkin, Kansas’ largest law firm.

“He told me about making a difference in other people’s lives as an attorney,” De Hoyos said. “I never imagined 10 years later I’d be walking across the stage

at Washburn with my law degree.” It was actually Stanley who recruited De Hoyos and his brother to Scouting in 1996 after they moved to Wichita. The two boys joined Troop 726 at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton.

“When I first started Scouting, I didn’t know if Eagle Scout was the end goal, but it was this legendary accomplishment that so few obtain, and I felt like I wanted to get everything I could out of Scouting,” he said. He achieved the Eagle badge at age 14.

De Hoyos said he loves working in criminal law. “You and the prosecutors are working for the same thing: a better community to raise your children in,” he said. “My goal is to recognize the power the criminal justice system has, and my hope is to leave it in a better way than I found it.”

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.

Jorge De Hoyos

All The Way Mae Coming to Wichita

We all know there’s no crying in baseball thanks to the 1992 film “A League of Their Own,” and this summer one of the inspirations behind the film will celebrate women’s history in baseball at Wichita’s prolific NBC World Series. The film depicts the emergence of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL) in the 1940s, when Major League Baseball teams feared the collapse of the league due to many young men being drafted into the war. The character played by Madonna, nicknamed “All the Way Mae,” is partially based on the legendary Maybelle Blair, a former pitcher for the 1948 Peoria Redwings. Blair, now 96 years old, still travels the country inspiring the next generation of girls and women in baseball.

Blair is an integral part of USA Baseball and MLB’s Trailblazer Series — a baseball tournament for girls — she is tied in with the USA Women’s National Baseball Team, she makes appearances at girls’ baseball events across the country, and on August 10 Blair will make a stop at Eck Stadium on Wichita State University’s campus for the NBC World Series.

Promoting women in baseball isn’t Blair’s only connection to the NBC World Series; in 1942 Blair’s brother, Tommy, played third base for the Northrop Bombers at the longstanding tournament. Growing up, Blair often followed her brother to baseball practice and sometimes played outfield with his team in California, and still remembers him going to play in Wichita. Aside from her contributions to the game of baseball, Blair is also a trailblazer for women in aviation. Following her professional baseball career and a successful professional softball career, Blair began what would become a 37-year career at Northrop Corporation in California, where she became one of only three female managers early in her career, and the first in transportation. Joining her during the celebration on August 10 at the NBC World Series is one of Wichita’s own Rosie the Riveters, Connie Palacioz, 98, who worked on B-29s at Boeing during World War II.

The journey of women in baseball started more than 150 years ago, but growth has quickened over the last decade, with major accomplishments including the first female general manager in the MLB (Kim Ng, Miami Marlins), the first female MLB minor league coach (Rachel Balkovec, New York Yankees), the first woman to appear in the starting lineup of an Atlantic League game (Kelsie Whitmore, Staten Island FerryHawks), the first woman to make an NCAA Division I baseball roster (Olivia Pichardo, Brown University), and many more accomplishments.

Now, at 96, Maybelle’s goal is to raise funds for an International Women’s Baseball Center in Rockford, Illinois, home of the Rockford Peaches made famous by “A League of Their Own,” that would house a museum, an umpire school, a Hall of Fame and more — all to continue to promote the game of baseball for the next generation of girls. To learn more about her vision and how you can get involved, visit internationalwomensbaseballcenter.org.

Maybelle Blair poses with the original cast of “A League of Their Own” during a reunion event.

Library Secrets Revealed 10 Surprising Things to Do at the Central Library

Written by John Huthmacher / Photography by Craig Hacker

The Advanced Learning Library in downtown Wichita near 2nd and McLean – which made the perfect backdrop for our back-to-school fashion shoot in this issue – recently celebrated its fifth anniversary. The bright and airy building that opened to the public June 16, 2018, replaced the old Central Branch location, offering new spaces and features that have made it an even more welcoming space for community members to gather, collaborate and grow in knowledge. Here are 10 of the library’s more innovative offerings that many visitors know nothing about.

AV Studio

Become a media master. The AV Studio provides access to equipment that allows visitors to record a podcast, edit social media videos, experiment with music, and more. The free-to-use audiovisual recording and editing space is equipped with the latest software technology, creating a vibrant recording experience for future media moguls and curious users looking to try something new in the ever-changing world of media communications.

3D Printers

Bring creations of all kinds to life. To join in the fun, participants must complete two certification classes and one staff-mediated print job to gain access to the futuristic printers designed to recreate objects of various shapes and sizes in amazingly precise detail.

Public Art

Cricut Maker

Explore your creativity! This state-of-the-art machine does it all, from cutting numerous materials (including vinyl and paper) to create eye-popping signs, inviting invitations, clever cards, stylish stickers and more.

5

Research Pavilion

1 2 7 4

Got questions surrounding Wichita, its surrounding communities, or your own family history in the region? Learn about local history or conduct genealogical research at the library’s extensive Research Pavilion. Staff members are available to answer questions and help locals connect to the history that binds them together within the community.

Used Bookstore

Looking to build your book collection for less money? Friends of the Wichita Public Library’s Used Bookstore, located inside the Advanced Learning Library, offers an extensive selection of lightly used books, movies and music to supplement your home library collection at affordable prices. Revenue from purchases benefits the library’s ever growing program offerings.

Laptop Kiosk

While it isn’t uncommon for libraries to promote public art, the Advanced Learning Library localizes the experience with such pieces as the new “Big Red” statue by artist David Stoltz. Other pieces offering local appeal include “Avian Migration” by Lisa Rundstrom, John Harrison and Tom McGuire; “Concentricity” by Conrad Snider; “Electron Membrane 1” by Eric Schmidt; “Keeper of a Brighter Future” by Michella Tripoli; “True Colors” by John Waltner; “Woven” by Kent Thomas Williams and Stephen Atwood; and “Zero Balance” by Josh Tripoli.

3 6 66 AUGUST 2023 · splurgemag.com

Book Club Support

For book club members needing multiple copies of their latest reading conquest, the Advanced Learning Library offers more than 200 titles of book sets to provide members access to content without looking over another’s shoulder.

Book-A-Librarian

Tech Assistance

Challenged by the latest equipment changes and technological advances? The Book-A-Librarian service provides free one-on-one technology guidance with computers, iPads, software, job searching and more. Librarian staff are available by appointment to assist card-carrying members at no cost.

Collaboration Rooms

If a lack of work space poses a problem at home, library patrons may want to bring their work or meeting to the library, where collaboration rooms are available at no cost by appointment.

Where to Find Them

Advanced Learning Library

711 W. 2nd Street Wichita, KS 67203 316.261.8500

wichitalibrary.org

Kent Wiseman with GoCreate, which partners with the Wichita Public Library to offer maker programs at the Advanced Learning Library

Written by Julie Hying

Hying

Navigating the August Back-to-School Shift

As an educator preparing for my 25th year of teaching English to high school students, I can confirm that August brings a significant shift in perspective, often filling students, parents and educators with an eager anticipation — but also a sense of unease. Though learning can be an inspiring and joyful journey, returning to a school schedule after June and July requires a positivity with a willingness to usher in growth and change. Moving from a relaxed schedule to one that is structured is challenging. Here are some approaches to consider to keep chaos to a minimum and create a positive mindset, while moving into what can be an amazing phase of life.

Ease into a new schedule by creating a routine that allows for adequate rest. Kids often stay up later and rise later throughout the summer months. Adjusting bedtimes need not be daunting. Begin three weeks before a new school year begins. That first week, think about getting kids and teens to agree to a set bedtime that is two hours later than a target time during the school year. The second week can be an hour later than the goal time, and the final week, aim for being close to a bedtime that allows for enough sleep on a school day. If this is accomplished, they can begin the school year well rested and ready to learn.

To find fruition in this change, seek to create routines that will transform into habit. Kids thrive on structure and rely on it to propel them through their weekdays. Nighttime rituals signal to their minds that the day is done and it’s time for rest. As summer fun comes to a close, consider the hours that precede sleep: Do they include relaxation, a walk outdoors, a shower or bath, reading a book, enjoying a favorite show or talking with a friend or loved one? Whatever helps ease their mind into restful sleep can be an important part of a pre-sleep routine.

Another tip to smooth the way for change this time of year is to be prepared ahead of time with school supplies, backpacks and lunch boxes — this can simply ease the chaos of those final weeks of summer. Having school essentials at the ready as well as an organized place to house them for easy access can make a huge impact in helping everyone feel ready for the onset of school.

Late July or early August is also an ideal time for kids and parents to go through drawers and closets. Discarding or giving away what no longer fits lends to the organization of rooms but also frees up space as they acquire new clothes for the year. Again, something essential for daily success is ready to go.

With this change on the horizon, remember to include activities that feel fun and joyful. Making family time a priority is also vital to one’s mental health and well being. Time in the pool, making a meal together, a quick getaway, weekend downtime, family movie night or a one-on-one game of chess, checkers, backgammon or mancala all nurture happiness and positivity throughout a month of flux.

Julie

is a high school English teacher and a writer for SPLURGE! Email her at julieh@splurgemag.com.

SIERRA PACIFIC FAMILY EVENT Exploration Place

Silvia Jimenez, LaDonna Corbin, Jessica Hooker, Erin Colby, Michelle Post and Preston Kirkhart

Scarlet Furman and Penny Wright

The Marr family

Holden and Preston Kirkhart, Audrey and Jane Tibbits

Becky, Laken, JD and Breckyn Anderson

The Budde family

Ashley Thompson and Debbie Najera

Sunny, Stryker and Micah Rabourn with Steve Bascombe

The Vargas family

Michelle Post and Rebekah Owens

Rebecca and Robert Beard

Heather, Alexandria, Lucas and Danielle Stewart

REVAMP YOUR WORKSPACE

Written by SPLURGE! Staff

Design Tips for a Productive Home Office

Back-to-school isn’t just for kids. It’s also a great time to reset your home office to give it a fresh look, get rid of unnecessary clutter and give yourself a clean, organized place to work. Having a well-designed home office is essential for productivity and focus. Whether you have a dedicated room or a small corner, revamping your workspace can make a world of difference in your workday. Here are some design tips to create an inspiring and functional home office that promotes efficiency and boosts productivity.

Prioritize Organization

A clutter-free workspace is a must for productivity. Invest in storage solutions such as shelves, cabinets or wall-mounted organizers to keep your supplies and paperwork neatly arranged. Use desk organizers and trays to corral small items like pens, notepads and cables, ensuring easy access to essentials without distractions.

Optimize Ergonomics

Comfort is crucial when spending long hours at your desk. Invest in an ergonomic chair that supports good posture and provides adjustable features like height, lumbar support and armrests. Position your computer monitor at eye level to prevent neck strain and use a keyboard and mouse that promote a natural hand position.

Maximize Natural Light

Position your desk near a window to take advantage of natural light, which not only boosts mood and energy but also reduces eye strain. If your workspace lacks natural light, consider adding full-spectrum lighting that mimics natural daylight, creating a more vibrant and stimulating environment.

Personalize Your Space

Adding personal touches to your home office can inspire creativity and make it feel more inviting. Decorate your workspace with artwork, photographs or plants that reflect your personality and interests. Consider adding a vision board or motivational quotes to keep you inspired and focused.

Color Psychology

The colors in your workspace can significantly impact your mood and productivity. Opt for colors that promote concentration and focus, such as shades of blue or green. Avoid overly bright or distracting colors that can disrupt your concentration.

Establish Zones

If space allows, create distinct zones for different tasks. Dedicate one area for focused work, another for brainstorming or creative activities, and a relaxation zone for breaks. This separation can help you switch gears and maintain a productive workflow.

Cable Management

Tangled cables can be visually distracting and create a sense of chaos. Use cable management solutions like cable clips, cable sleeves or cord covers to keep your wires organized and out of sight. This simple step can significantly enhance the overall aesthetic and functionality of your workspace.

Consider Soundproofing

Noise can be a significant distraction when working from home. If possible, invest in soundproofing measures such as acoustic panels or sound-absorbing curtains to minimize outside noise and create a quieter and more focused environment.

By implementing these design tips, you can transform your home office into a productive and inspiring space that supports your work goals. Remember, the key is to create an environment that promotes organization, comfort and personalization, allowing you to be your most productive self while working from home.

By Nahid Holmes | Design Source Interiors

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We have assembled a highly competent team of surgeons, physicians, nurses, technicians and support sta that are dedicated to providing the highest level patient care. They understand that the best medicine is achieved through the empowerment of caregivers so they are unhindered in their quest to deliver compassionate and evidence based health care. Such care is complemented by utilizing the latest in medical technology while listening to each patient’s needs and customizing care plans.

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