Behind the Scenes
Raising the Curtain on Our Central Cast
How long have you been with SPLURGE?
A little more than a year.
What are some of your favorite moments with the magazine?
I really enjoy meeting new people, and writing for SPLURGE! provides me the opportunity to do that. I wrote a story about the benefits of pickleball for seniors, and that was one of my all-time favorites — the people I met were so interesting and amazing.
Tell us a little about your day job.
I am a research and technology engineer at Spirit Aerosystems. I have so much fun learning about cutting-edge technology in the world of aerospace.
Something new you’ve learned recently?
A cat named Stubbs was the mayor of an Alaskan town called Talkeetna for 20 years.
Favorite creative outlet?
Writing — I love to write about anything.
Hidden talent?
Watercolor painting (although I don’t get to do it often enough).
Paige Feikert Writer
What is Wichita’s best-kept secret?
Well, I’m a french fry connoisseur, and my absolute favorites are at Red Bird, plus they have all of the good dipping sauces. (Their mac and cheese is also amazing.)
If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?
New York City. My dream is to move there and live in a tiny apartment when my daughter is older.
Who’s had the biggest impact on your life?
My daughter — she is everything happy in the world and she encourages me to continue pursuing all of my dreams.
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
Associate Publisher Kelsey Ralston - kelsey@splurgemag.com
Lead Editor Karen Long - proofing@splurgemag.com
Director of Operations Jessika Mayer - splurgeoffice@gmail.com
Account Executives Kim Azaria - kim@splurgemag.com
Debi Devor-Mullins - debi@splurgemag.com
Dawn Tucker - dawn@splurgemag.com Julie Hying - hyingj@usd385.org
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, Karen Long, Jessika Mayer, Dawn Tucker
Guest Columnists Ashley Opliger
Fashion Photography Darrin Hackney
Local Faces Photography Michael Carroll Jr.
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
10
Our Cover, Your Kid
She’s a baker, tinkerer and “math queen,” exuding curiosity and imagination. Meet this year’s winner of our cover contest, Aaliyah Williams — plus four fabulous finalists with sparkling smiles!
36
Velvet, Suede and Metallics
Welcome this triad into your winter wardrobe and you can’t go wrong. Accent an elegant forest green dress with silver stack heels, or a black and white knit with a dash of red suede boots. Cozy and eye-catching!
56
’Tis the Season for Entertaining
Whether you’re planning a chill evening of movie watching or a block-busting holiday party, these Shortbread Jingle Bells, Savory Sausage Bites and White Christmas Margaritas will add a festive spin.
Our Cover, Your Kid Cover Winner, Aaliyah Williams
Photography Tobie Andrews
64
Ballet Wichita’s 50th ‘Nutcracker’
For its 50th production of the twinkling holiday classic, Ballet Wichita’s artistic director, Logan Pachciarz, has reimagined “The Nutcracker” with a blend of traditional choreography and refreshed storytelling.
68
Holiday Memories of Local Leaders
Whether year-end traditions include homemade tamales, a menorah, a kinara or a visit from St. Nicolas, holiday memories have roots from around the world. Here, stories from four community leaders.
Morgan Stanley is proud to congratulate The Flint Hills Group
Named one of Forbes’ Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams
Being named to the Forbes’ 2024 Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams list is a testament to your experience, focus, and dedication to your clients’ financial future.
Thank you for the work you do each day and for carrying forward the standard of excellence at our firm.
The Flint Hills Group at Morgan Stanley
1617 N Waterfront Pkwy, Suite 200 Wichita, KS 67206 316-383-8300
flinthillsgroup@morganstanley.com www.morganstanleyfa.com/flinthillsgroup
L-R: Rob Ralston CFP®, Financial Advisor; Emily Harris, Registered Client Service Associate; Thomas West, Financial Advisor; Gregory Brown, Financial Advisor; Danielle Schreck, Portfolio Associate; Jim Roman, Financial Advisor; Paul Attwater III, Branch Manager; Kay Koehler, Senior Registered Associate; Brooks Brown, Financial Advisor; Greg Ek, Financial Advisor
CFP Board owns the marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the U.S.
Source: Forbes.com (Jan 2024) 2024 Forbes Best-In-State Wealth Management Teams ranking awarded in 2024. This ranking was determined based on an evaluation process conducted by SHOOK Research LLC (the research company) in partnership with Forbes (the publisher) during the period from 3/31/22 – 3/31/23. Neither Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC nor its Financial Advisors or Private Wealth Advisors paid a fee to SHOOK Research LLC for placement on its rankings. This ranking is based on in-person and telephone due diligence meetings to evaluate each Financial Advisor qualitatively, a major component of a ranking algorithm that includes client retention, industry experience, review of compliance records, firm nominations, and quantitative criteria, including assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Investment performance is not a criterion. Rankings are based on the opinions of SHOOK Research LLC and may not be representative of any one client’s experience; investors must carefully choose the right Financial Advisor or team for their own situation and perform their own due diligence. This ranking is not indicative of the Financial Advisor’s future performance. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC is not affiliated with SHOOK Research LLC or Forbes For more information, see www.SHOOKresearch.com.
Our Cover, Your Kid
Written by Jessika Mayer | Photography by Tobie Andrews
Winner: Aaliyah Williams
Aaliyah Williams chews her tongue as she tries to understand how to attach a cardboard box to her penny board. “Mom, can I use the hot glue gun?” she asks.
The questions never end from the curious 11-year-old who digs through the junk closet for tape and glue and pipe cleaners to outfit her new invention. Aaliyah is always looking to solve the next problem, from make-shift toys for her cats to gadgets to zoom around the house. She even went through three big boxes of baking soda in a month for her homemade science experiments.
“The experiments just come to my imagination to make pretend dough and food because I love to bake,” Aaliyah said. “It’s satisfying when I solve a hard problem.”
Problem-solving has almost become a pastime for Aaliyah. She brings home her math assignments with “queen of math” written in the name space, and her favorite tasks are ones that most people find difficult. In August, Aaliyah picked up a cassette player and tinkered with it until swoony 90s country music started playing through the speakers.
“That goes to the fact of being an only child, and you have to figure things out on your own sometimes,” said Aaliyah’s grandmother, Lori Feikert. Her independence and problem-solving tie in with her creativity and imagination — a gift she shares with her family.
“She has a huge imagination and tons of creativity and the will to make it happen,” said Aaliyah’s grandfather, John Feikert. “Some of the stuff she comes up with is amazing. She’ll just do crazy things, whether it’s a craft thing or something on her computer, you could go on and on”
Maybe it’s a side effect of being an only child and the youngest child in her mother’s family — a title that she has held longer than almost anyone in the family. “When Aaliyah was born, I was very disappointed, but now I am very protective of her and I love her like a little sister,” said Aaliyah’s cousin, Kameryn Feikert. “Even though she stole the title as the baby of the family from me.”
It must be more than that, though: Aaliyah can get excited about anything, and she maintains a thread of optimism in everything she does — even while getting a flu shot she can see the bright side. But she’s also stubborn and holds her ground, and she has a competitive streak that rivals top athletes.
“I like how she doesn’t let the boys at school bother her. If they’re playing football on the playground, she doesn’t care — she’s out there doing it, she doesn’t let anybody dictate what she wants to do,” Lori said. Her headstrong nature could be a nod to her namesake. Aaliyah’s middle name, Bobbi, comes from her late great-grandmother, a woman who led with compassion, but also held firm in her beliefs. “Aaliyah has a pretty big heart, too,” Lori added. “She doesn’t wear it on her sleeve, but she does have a big heart, and that’s something that Bobbi had, she loved unconditionally.”
“We have a handshake, it symbolizes gratitude or appreciation for just being us, being around each other. It’s a symbol of a multitude of things; it’s just something we do,” said Aaliyah’s father, Demetric Williams.
Someday, Aaliyah plans on opening her own restaurant, serving none other than the meal she often eats three times a day — breakfast. “I can definitely admit to giving in to the breakfast for dinner, I was against it because I would eat breakfast, and I was like ‘why eat breakfast twice?’ ” Williams said.
“I think a lot of fathers can speak to giving in, she won me over.”
The Finalists!
Avett Friesen, 7
Parents:
Elizabeth and Linsey Friesen
Hobbies:
Avett loves playing his ukulele, riding his bicycle, swim team, building anything and picking out a snazzy outfit.
Favorite school subject:
Math, because he likes solving problems with numbers. Science, because he loves experiments.
Personality:
Avett would wear a suit and tie every single day if we’d let him! He is always the first to compliment a good outfit. He is a free-thinker, adventurer, builder and protector. He is best buds with his dog “Lasso” who is a mini Australian Shepherd.
What he wants to be when he grows up:
An engineer so he can build things.
Other fun facts:
Avett loves to bike on Red Bud Trail. His farthest this summer was over 11 miles. He is the big brother to two sets of twins!
Sebastian Scott, 9
Parents:
Kacee and John Scott
Hobbies:
Playing his Nintendo Switch and playing tag at school
Favorite school subject:
Math, because he likes to find new answers
Personality:
Energetic, talkative (especially in school), loving to his baby brother
What he wants to be when he grows up:
A dentist to help patients with check-ups and cavities
Other fun facts:
He’s named after one of the main characters in “Cruel Intentions,” his middle name is from a character in “Gladiator,” and his baby brother loves him more than anyone else (except for Mom).
The Finalists!
Aria Thompson, 8
Parents:
Tramaine and Erin Thompson
Hobbies:
Making bracelets, gymnastics, volleyball
Favorite school subject:
Math, because she enjoys solving problems
Personality:
We would describe Aria as a very mature and determined little girl. When she sets a goal for herself, there is no stopping her until she accomplishes it. She prides herself on doing what is right and helping others.
What she wants to be when she grows up: A fashion designer, because she loves expressing herself through clothes.
Other fun facts:
Aria taught herself how to do a backhand spring and an aerial by the age of 6. Her birthday is on New Year’s Eve.
Austyn Thompson, 7
Parents:
Tramaine and Erin Thompson
Hobbies:
Bike riding, playing outside with friends, soccer, gymnastics
Favorite school subject:
Science, because she enjoys learning about outer space.
Personality:
Austyn is a care-free spirit who’s never met a stranger. She is incredibly kind, full of joy, and one of the funniest characters you’ll ever meet! She’s empathetic toward others and always makes sure everyone feels included.
What she wants to be when she grows up: A veterinarian, so she can help animals.
Other fun facts:
Austyn has a beautiful singing voice but only her immediate family members would know that! Austyn loves reading books about animals and sharing fun facts she learns with others.
Shawn Rhodes, Christa Vezeos and John “DOC” Strange
The Garcia family
Krystal and Zander Kelsay
Cecilia Brandt, Holly Miller and Reese Watkins
Kendall Carson and family
Henry and Mike Hoheisal, Melanie Addington, Lily Wu and Dalton Glasscock
The Day and Phillips families
Eleanore and Bunny Houston
Shocker Sound Machine
Wichita Wagon Masters
Melanie Addington, Alicia Sanchez, Loren Fields, Oletha Faust-Goudeau and Eddie Ulloa
Jason and Lisa Edward
Faithbuilders Stands in the Gap for Families and Individuals In Crises
Written by John Huthmacher
When the going gets tough and needs exceed means, oftentimes it is faith that enables the down-trodden to rise above their circumstances.
No one understands this better than FaithBuilders non-profit founder Andrea Dixon. Dixon founded FaithBuilders in 2007 after seeing her short-term fostering experience with a young child turn into an eight-month commitment.
“There were just so many challenges and issues that I didn’t understand,” she said. “I wanted to figure it out and be part of someone’s solution.”
Through FaithBuilders, she has done just that, offering solutions through services and support that help families and individuals struggling with various challenges to get their lives back on track. Operating mostly on private donations and with the help of more than 150 volunteers, the organization — which became incorporated in January of 2012 — assists individuals of all ages in crisis by offering assistance, education and emotional support, connecting them with various agencies and individuals able to address their specific needs.
respite homes offer care to children of parents in crisis.
Assisting some 2,500 families each year with no state or federal funding, the non-profit relies on grants and donations from the community to dole out such necessities as clothing, hygiene supplies, pantry staples, diapers, wipes, formula, furniture and household items from its warehouse located at 1855 S. Rock Road, Suite 149, from 1–3 p.m., Tuesdays and Fridays. For single mothers in crisis, FaithBuilders offers shelter, transportation and life training to those residing in its transitional living house in Wichita. Services offered address substance abuse and behavioral issues that so often keep those living in crisis from ever realizing their hopes and dreams for a new life. Thirty
“The transitional home is for women who want to turn their lives around and become independent, positive members of society,” Dixon said. “In our mentoring program, we walk alongside parents and teenagers and just try to help them live life in a more positive way.
“God stays in the center of it. You can’t do it by yourself. That’s how God keeps all the glory.”
Through its partnership with USD 259 (Wichita), FaithBuilders assists students and educators alike, providing incentives and classroom supplies to help inspire and motivate, both inside the classroom and beyond, in real-world situations. Items most requested for students by their teachers include shoes, clothing, coats and food for families.
Working with area churches, FaithBuilders provides pregnant women and mothers of newborn and infant children with car seats, cribs and other necessities that would otherwise go unmet. An educational endowment set up by a donor enables disadvantaged children to experience new and better ways of living and interacting with their peers.
“Kids learn the mindset of putting others first and giving back,” Dixon said. “We’re just trying to help them recognize and mimic healthy and positive habits.
“We do a lot of educational training, budgeting, nutritional … a lot of our families don’t know how to cook. They’ve never even had a bank account. They are struggling with something, whether it be poverty, addiction, domestic violence or generational dysfunction. You have to be able to walk with them through the whole scope of life.”
Ashley Opliger is a follower of Jesus, wife, and mom to three children (a daughter in Heaven and two sons). She is the founder and Executive Director of Bridget’s Cradles, a nonprofit ministry that serves families who have lost a baby. Ashley is the host of the Cradled in Hope podcast and wrote a book by the same name that will be released in July 2025.
Written by Ashley Opliger | Daughter of Steve Golik
The Cost of Impaired Driving
Remembering Steve Golik during National Impaired Driving Prevention Month
A man should be able to go on a motorcycle ride and come home safely to his family. But on the night of Sunday, July 28, 2024, my dad, Steve Golik, was struck by a drunk driver in a hit-and-run on Central Avenue near Greenwich in Wichita. The drunk driver left my dad, paralyzed and in critical condition, on the road to die.
Fortunately, a woman and her daughter were driving by when they spotted him on the road. They immediately pulled over, called 911, and performed CPR until the ambulance arrived. My dad lived for a week on life support until he succumbed to severe injuries caused by the collision. He took his last breath on August 4, 2024, surrounded by his family. Two days later he would have celebrated his 42nd wedding anniversary with my mom, his high school sweetheart.
Painful “Firsts” and Lost Memories
Instead of going out for dinner with his wife and three kids, his body was being delivered to the coroner’s office, and we were left canceling our restaurant reservation in tears. This was just the beginning of many “firsts” we’ve had to painfully endure without him.
Our once complete family of five now feels incomplete as we gather with just four around the table. There will be no more birthday parties with him. No more Christmas mornings. No more trips to Table Rock Lake, watching him steer the boat with his grandsons on his lap. No more family card games. No more printing sports spreadsheets for my son. No more texts from him alerting us of severe weather.
There will be no more listening to him play Rush music on his Gibson Les Paul. No more going to 70s and 80s rock concerts with him. No more calling him when we need him. No more having him help us with house projects. No more watching Chiefs games with his son, son-in-law and grandsons. No more trips to visit his siblings.
There will be no more of him tracking our flights and picking us up from the airport in his truck. No more playing with his grandkids or going to their baseball games. No more of his funny sense of humor. No more hugs with his famous pats on the back.
In a split second all of that, and so much more, was taken from us because someone chose to drink and drive. My dad was robbed of the chance to live the rest of his life, enjoy his retirement, and make memories with his family. And these same years were stolen from us, too.
There are no words to describe the unbearable grief my family has experienced. Watching him suffer and die in the hospital due to someone else’s poor decisions was pure torture. Living through that trauma has been an absolute nightmare — the worst mental, emotional and physical anguish you could ever imagine.
If, by sharing my dad’s story, we could save even one person’s life and prevent just one family from experiencing the excruciating heartbreak we have endured, then it would be worth it. No family deserves to lose a loved one in such a tragic, sudden and senseless way and be forced to live the rest of their lives without them.
The 4 D’s of Impaired Driving
When I was given the opportunity to share my dad’s story, it felt symbolic since his birthday falls in December. But I soon learned that December is also National Impaired Driving Prevention Month.
The Golik family on vacation in Florida: Teresa, Steve, Tara, Ashley, Aaron
This campaign raises awareness about the four D’s of impaired driving: drunk, drugged, distracted and drowsy. With so many people traveling for the holidays and celebrating Christmas and New Year’s Eve, December is one of the deadliest months for drunk driving. A $20 Uber ride would have saved my dad’s life. Had someone made the responsible decision, my dad would be celebrating his 65th birthday on the 16th of this month, and opening presents with us on Christmas morning. But instead, his chair will be empty, and we will be visiting his grave. We will be missing him immensely and sending our love to him in Heaven.
Please don’t drink and drive. The cost of impaired driving is a matter of life and death. It causes lifelong, irreparable consequences for you, others on the road and their families. I humbly urge you to always drive sober. Save a life. Spare a family from knowing this pain.
Keep Motorcyclists Safe
• Look twice for bikes! There’s a life riding on it.
• Check your blind spots and watch your left turns for motorcycles.
• Put your phone down. Don’t drive distracted.
• Give motorcycles extra space by keeping your distance.
• If you ride, wear a helmet and practice defensive driving.
Prevent Impaired Driving
• Never get behind the wheel if you are impaired.
• If you know someone is impaired, don’t let them drive.
• Plan ahead by designating a driver or arranging for a ride-share service.
• If you’re on the road and suspect someone is driving impaired, call 911.
For more resources visit madd.org or DUIvictimscenterofkansas.com
In Loving Memory of Steven Richard Golik
12.16.59 - 8.4.24
Steven Richard Golik of Andover, KS, 64, devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, son and friend, entered eternal life in Heaven on Sunday, August 4, 2024. Steve was born December 16, 1959, to Edwin and Georgia Golik. He was raised in Decatur, IL, and Tiffin, OH, with three siblings, Pam, Kim and Rich, with whom he remained very close throughout his life.
Steve met his wife, Teresa, in 1977 in geometry class when they were 17 and 16. They were married on August 6, 1982. Together, they had three children, Ashley, Tara and Aaron, who were his pride, joy and “biggest accomplishment in life.” Steve developed a passion for airplanes after a ride in a Piper Cheyenne. He earned his pilot’s license at 19 and won first place in the Buckeye Air Rally in 1980. After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering from Kent State University in 1984, he began his career at Beech Aircraft in Wichita, Kansas. He was a dedicated employee for 36 years before retiring from Textron Aviation in 2021.
Steve was an incredibly talented musician and selftaught guitarist. He was also an excellent carpenter and handyman. He often helped his kids with various house projects. Steve’s greatest joy was spending time with his family and dogs. He loved traveling with his family, riding motorcycles and making elaborate spreadsheets. He was a man of integrity and strong morals. Steve was dependable, reliable and always loyal to his family, friends and coworkers. He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. His memory will live on in our hearts as we await seeing him again in Heaven.
Steve and Teresa with their grandsons, Branton and Brenner, on Table Rock Lake near Branson, MO
& ANSWERS QUESTIONS
Q. Please tell us a little bit about your healthcare journey.
A. My journey into healthcare has been a unique one. I was not initially focused on a career in healthcare, but some very formative experiences during my college years led me to change course from architecture to business. I earned my degree in business administration while working in the kitchen of a local long-term care facility, and went on to complete the Administrator in Training program and earned my license in 2014. Over the past decade I’ve served as an administrator in the local long-term care market, and at Catholic Care Center, where I now serve as the chief operating officer and administrator, since 2021.
Q. What are some of the unique challenges you face in the long-term care industry?
A. The greatest challenge we face in long-term care is that we are people caring for people, and that is an imperfect science. That is also one of the greatest blessings of our industry, because when you find that employee who truly has a heart for senior care, that’s when the magic happens! The stringent and sometimes misguided regulations and reimbursement strategies also create very challenging situations for our industry.
Q. Why do you think Catholic Care has achieved so much over the past decade?
A. Catholic Care Center has been very fortunate to serve seniors and their families for almost 35 years, and the past decade has been a great one for us, especially the past few years, because we have had the opportunity to redefine areas of our campus and improve and expand the ways that we provide care. This is truly a ministry, not a business, and we believe that when you do the right thing, the right thing happens. Whatever success we’ve enjoyed, I believe, is testament to the good work we try to accomplish each day.
With Devon Hiebert Administrator, Catholic Care Center
Q. What are some common misconceptions that people have about your profession?
A. A common misconception about long-term care facilities is that they’re just “nursing homes” for minor care needs, but in reality, they play a crucial role in the healthcare system. Many long-term care facilities now handle high-acuity cases similar to those in acute care hospitals, managing complex medical needs for patients with chronic conditions, disabilities, and post-surgical recovery. This sector significantly impacts the lives of those we serve, offering specialized, ongoing care that helps prevent hospital readmissions and enhances quality of life for those we serve.
Q. How can someone tour your facility?
A. We love showing people around our community! I invite everyone to call 316.744.2020 and speak with our team of senior living advisors. Our experienced team have been working with residents and families for decades, and they will help guide you on your journey to determine which area of our community best meets your needs and goals.
Sponsored by Phoenix Home Care & Hospice
Alex Melugin’s
Alex Melugin, President of Phoenix Home Care and Hospice
Step Into the Past
Written by Alexis Evans
Wichita’s Most Enchanting Castle-Like Landmarks
Did you know this city in the heartland is the site of several charming and opulent castles? Wichita is littered with these landmark locations contributing to a unique historic vibe. Many of these buildings were designed and constructed in the late 1800s concurrently with the opulent homes of wealthy East Coast families such as the Vanderbilts and the Astors. These still-standing structures would be considered by many to be “fit for a king.”
Davis Administration Building, Friends University
Anyone who has driven on west Kellogg will have noticed the imposing Davis Administration Building, located on the Friends University campus. According to their website, the Davis building, the crown jewel on what is already a picturesque campus, was constructed in 1888 as Garfield University, and closed in 1890 after funding was lost due to crop failure throughout Kansas. The magnificent building “sat empty for five years. until James M. Davis, a wealthy Quaker businessman, bought the building and donated it to the Society of Friends (Quakers).” Renamed after James Davis, this imposing structure has been at the center of the growth of Friends University, which has expanded over the past century into a sprawling, park-like campus that recently celebrated 125 years. The Davis building with its impressive 148-foot-high tower, complete with 10-foot-tall clock face, is a “Richardson Romanesque-style building designed by noted architects Proudfoot and Bird.” Many efforts have been made to keep this beautiful building up to date, and anyone who visits feels the rich history.
Campbell Castle
Further north, tucked alongside the banks of the Little Arkansas River in the Riverside neighborhood, stands Campbell Castle, former residence of cattle baron Col. Burton Harvey “Barbeque” Campbell. According to wichitahistory.com, this unique residence was completed in 1888, and “rivaled all others as the only one designed after a Scottish castle.” Designed by architect Alfred Gould, this 15,000-square-foot castle boasts 17 bedrooms and 19 bathrooms, a turret room, formal sitting and living rooms, and a solarium. This building has been known by several names, including Crumm Castle and The Castle Inn Wichita, and has existed as a bed and breakfast as well as a museum. Campbell Castle, restored back to its original name, is now a private residence, but any who travel along N. River Boulevard can see that this breathtaking home sets a standard for the surrounding residences in the area. The real estate listing on priceypads.com shows photos last updated in 2018, which showcase the gorgeous interior details that set this building apart as a classic of Wichita.
The Wichita-Sedgwick County Historical Museum
Known to many as simply the “downtown castle,” the Wichita-Sedgwick County Historical Museum is housed in Wichita’s original City Hall. According to wichitahistory.org, this “landmark building was constructed in 1890 and is considered an exhibit in itself.” The rich and full history of Wichita is on display within this museum, showcasing artifacts from the Native American Wichita tribe, the original cowboys who made this land their home, and the inauguration of “the city’s role as the Air Capital of the World.” More can be found about the history of the structure and museum tours information at wichitahistory.org.
Scottish Rite Building
This gorgeous building, which features “an eye-catching mixture of ornate and opulent” elements, was built during the architectural boom of 1880s Wichita, according to wichitascottishrite.org. This was a time in which the East Coast architects Proudfoot and Bird had a hand in the design and construction of 29 projects, including the building formerly known as Garfield University, and a YMCA building, now known as the Wichita Scottish Rite building. As the building boom began to wane, the YMCA building lost financial support and became available for purchase by the Scottish Rite in the late 1880s, an organization that continues to occupy the building to this day.
Treating Depression at the Source
Live Life to the Fullest With
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NeuroStar has been cleared by the FDA as a non-drug, non-invasive approach, and psychiatrist Dr. Paul Murphy is proud to be among the first in the area to offer this proven treatment.
• Safe and effective without the common side effects of medication
• Revitalizes inactive synapses in the brain
• Accepted by most major insurance
Major depression is a serious illness that affects over 14 million Americans, and 4 million of them don’t respond well to standard antidepressant medications.
83% of patients completing NeuroStar treatment experienced measurable depression relief, and 62% experienced full remission of their depression symptoms.
HOLIDAY TABLES: GIRLS’ NIGHT OUT
Mark Arts
Chloe Spencer and Natalie Hershberger
Elaine Kusk, Tania Pemar, Alexandra Palmer and Samantha Levin
Designing Women
Ashlyn Stuart and Callie Thomas
Angela Mazzara, Chris Mackenroth, Martha Sundstrom and Katie Higgins
Amy Gepner, Malaura Epperson, Karen Williams and Gaylyn McGregor
GNO Attendiees
Bayli Gumeringer, Christiana Blair and Candace Huslig
D.J. Carbon
Jan Bishop, Holli Davis, Shelley Martin and Kristen Cass
Candice Bhargava, Sylvia Do and Deanna Ternes
Brecken Morel, Kassidy Barrett, Cassie Goode, Rita Bagby Kuykendall and Jackie Redford
Shara Mulryan, Stacy Malicoat, Lisa Barmore and Katherine Sanneman
Tara Ritter, Tammy Routon, Daniela Garcia, Catherine Heidel and Lisa Mayfield
Mindi Chance-Peare, Aeramy Porter, Darcy Estes and Susan Taylor
Lisa Barmore, Megan Stearman, Jessika Mayer, Jody Klein, Patricia Thompson, Kelly Watkins, Aja Drake and Stephanie Sutton
Jo Walters, Melody Matulewic, Erica Combs, LewJene Schneider and Coleen Jennison
Jill Coad, Kelly Kemnitz, Kathryn Krsnich and Elizabeth Young
Sonya Luna, Jeanne Quinn, Amanda Luginbill and Laurie Boorigie
Laura Hands, Dara Geoffroy, Whitney Ward, Courtney Lazzo, Courtney Patton, Jillian White, Alexa Houlik and Taylor Phipps
Shari Hand, Jamie Schmaltz, Audrey Hane, Christy Cox, Stephanie McCurdy and Cindy Hand
Tiffany Fisher-Zacker, Chelsea Lee, Marty Lee and Gayle Koster
Sara Hootman and Tara Albin
Mackenzie Low, Jamee Scholtz and Megan Jenish
Written by Caroline Jones
Patient-Oriented Addiction Treatment
This month, we had the privilege of interviewing Dr. Greg Lakin about his work with Center for Change. If you are in addiction, if you have a loved one in addiction, or if you want to help the addiction community, here’s a way to learn more about what Center for Change is doing in Wichita.
Q. How did you end up at Center for Change?
A. I’ve always wanted to help people directly. Originally I was a police officer, so I got to see what drugs did to families. There’s so much collateral damage, and I saw it destroying families. The reason that some of these people were stealing things and acting this way was because they had a very expensive habit. They’d just do whatever it took. Before Center for Change, I worked with a facility that didn’t feel very patient-oriented. The best people and I left, and we decided to start our own thing.
Q. What’s your mission at Center for Change?
A. Our model is a lot more about counselor contact. We have a lot of counselors, and we really focus on any underlying mood disorders as well as problems with addiction. It could be anything — bipolar, depression, anxiety. If they have it already, it’s going to be way worse if they’re on drugs, because part of the brain goes into this crazy crisis mode. Our goal is to use medications and counseling to get those people back on a stable path.
Q. What does an average day in your clinic look like?
A. Well, we’re also a pharmacy, so we’ll have about 150 people come in here on any given day. They come to get their medications, to talk to our counselors if they need it, and to meet with me if there’s any medical issues. And they’re not all feeling great yet. Sometimes, it can take the better part of a week to get them feeling normal again. Withdrawals are just terrible. They often say they have to keep taking these drugs just to not feel deathly sick. They say that it controls their life. We want to help addicts have hope. We want them to know they can come to us and that they can succeed.
Q. What’s been rewarding about working with Center for Change?
A. It’s so rewarding to help patients get their life back. We see a significant difference with people right away. You can just tell that the panic and the crisis is leaving, it’s getting better, and it’s gone. They tell me within the first week they feel like they’re getting their life back. They feel in control again.
Q. What’s sometimes difficult about what you’re doing at the clinic?
A. When you’re taking illicit drugs, your mood is going up and down, up and down. All your brain cares about is the next ten minutes. That crisis mode is just hard to watch. Sometimes, it takes some tough love, but we try to get people out of that, and out of the victim mentality of blaming everyone else for their problems. The truth is, every day they’re taking a risk. We get patients all the time who say, “My friend overdosed and died right in front of me,” or “My best buddy almost died, but he’s still taking the stuff. He doesn’t even remember it, but I watched him turn blue.” But no matter how bad someone thinks their situation or addiction is, we have success stories from people who were there once as well.
Q. What would you say to someone currently struggling with addiction?
A. That they’re worth it, and they can do it.
HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE AND GRAND OPENING
Bre Mitchell and Addison Cook
Cari Buresh and Hallee Powell
Jamie Hall, APRN, FMPTC, Owner
C.J. Aguerrevere and Cindy Stephens
Keven Golightley, Erika Wells, Madi Troyer, Addison Cook, C.J. Aquerrevere and Jamie Hall
C.J. Aguerrevere and Madi Troyer
Madi Troyer, Erika Wells and Keven Golightley
Drew and Shelly Francis, Hallee Powell and Cari Buresh
Shelly French and Jamie Hall
Heather Adams and Shonda Colella
C.J. Aguerrevere
Jamie Hall and Addison Cook
Distinctly by Dawn
Written by Dawn Tucker
Dawn Tucker is a design consultant and owner of DTConsulting LLC in Wichita. Reach her at dawn@splurgemag.com.
SPARKLE AND SHINE!
Holiday-Inspired Outfits for Everyone
One thing I love about the holidays this season is the inevitable sparkle and shine. When I was asked to share some fun and flirty holiday outfits for this season, the subject is definitely in my wheelhouse.
If you are like me you love to see universal outfits that look good on almost any body type. Sometimes it can be hard to find something
you feel confident in for the holidays, and this is the time you really want to show up feeling fabulous at that occasion or party.
I follow many different shops and boutiques, always looking for the next trend and what everyone will be wearing this season. These are the top three essentials for the season:
Sequins Skirts LBD
This is the part that makes me happy. I have found that sparkling never seems to go out of style
This is an essential casual and dressy piece that any body type can wear with confidence. Even better: a lot of these skirts come with pockets.
I have a special place in my heart for the always safe Little Black Dress. This color will always be timeless and classy, so if this is your go-to I give you permission to grab that LBD — but make sure you have some fun pearls, feathers or sequins to wear with it.
Photo: Neiman Marcus
Photo: Torrid
Photo: Amazon
Holiday Cheer Found Here!
Written by Paige Feikert
Shop Local Gift Guide
Whether you’re searching for the perfect white elephant gift or something for that friend who has everything, local businesses are a great place to shop. Not only can you find unique gifts, but you’ll support your neighbors and help boost the local economy. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, the Wichita metro is home to more than 57,000 small businesses, which employ more than 127,000 people. If you’re not sure where to start, check out the list below.
For the Green Thumb
Indoor plants, outdoor plants, pots, seeds and plant-themed gifts — local plant stores have the perfect wares for your plant-loving friends. Check out Dutch’s Greenhouse, a staple for plant lovers in Wichita since 1957, where you can find locally grown poinsettias. Other local plant shops include Grow Plant Bar, Plant Kingdom, Hillside Feed & Seed and more.
For the Bookworm
There’s something about curling up on the couch with a hot drink and a good book that sets the scene for the holiday season. Left on Read, a new bookstore dedicated to sharing stories from local and national Black authors, is opening just in time for the holiday season. Check out other local bookstores such as Blush for the romance lover in your life, Watermark Books & Cafe for books and bookish gifts, or Book-A-Holic for a huge selection of used books.
For the Friend Who Always Reps Their City
If you’re looking for a uniquely Wichita gift, look to one of Wichita’s dozens of boutiques. You’ll find locally-made body care and candles at Bungalow 26 in Delano, Wichita flag home décor at the Workroom downtown, and even custom Wichita sneakers from Aida Stenholm in College Hill.
For the Foodie
Wichita is a hot spot for local restaurants. Consider supporting them this holiday season through purchasing gift cards, booking holiday catering or party locations, or even meeting up with outof-town friends and family. Grab a basket of fries with all of the dipping sauces from Red Bird, or warm up with a bowl of soup from Tanya’s, or a classic bierock from Prost — the list is endless.
For the Coffee Lover
Whether you’re looking for a gift for a coffee lover or you’re in need of a caffeine boost yourself while out shopping, check out one of Wichita’s local coffee shops. Pick up locally roasted coffee at Reverie or grab a Gansito latte at Las Adelitas Café. Check out Il Primo’s huge holiday menu, and a slice of avocado toast from Coffee Daze.
For the Friend Who Likes Local Brews
Much like Wichita’s restaurant scene, breweries and wineries are great spots for gathering with friends, and many of them, like Central Standard Brewing and Hopping Gnome, offer gift cards and local merch. Plus, if you’re looking for the perfect gift for a holiday party host, consider a bottle of wine from Grace Hill Winery or kombucha from Apollo Fermentations for your non-alcoholic friends.
Something for the Whole Family
If you’re looking for an experience gift for the whole family, consider a family membership to one of Wichita’s museums or family-friendly attractions like Exploration Place, Botanica, Cowtown or the Sedgwick County Zoo.
For the Friend With a Sweet Tooth
Chocolates, candies, popcorn and nuts — snacks and treats are a trademark for the holiday season. For family gatherings or stocking stuffers, grab a popcorn ball from the Popcorner, or a holiday tin from the Farris Wheel Candy Co. Of course, Nifty Nuthouse is always a holiday favorite, and who doesn’t want to find a box of Cocoa Dolce chocolates under the Christmas tree?
For the Friend Who Likes to Get Out
Experiences are great alternatives to physical gifts, and locally that means tickets to a Wichita Thunder Hockey game, a show at Century II or a class at Mark Arts or Wichita State University Community Education.
Location - Tobie Andrews Studio
Photography - Tobie Andrews Photography
Models - IMPACTMODELS
Hair/Makeup - Crave Beauty Academy
Hair - Alyssa H, Joe’Lisa S, Yazmyne T
Makeup - Odalys G, Raina J, Tearyn S
Styled by: Jody Klein
Baking With the Farmer’s Almanac
First published in 1792, The Farmer’s Almanac touches on numerous topics including weather predictions and forecasting that is based on solar science, meteorology and climatology. Today, it is still published in Lewiston, Maine, and guides various aspects of life with planting schedules, sundry pleasantries of rural interest as well as astrological charts and tables. Perhaps most inspiring are their treasured, time-honored recipes.
Cocoa Cream Bundt Delight
CAKE
1 cup salted butter
1 ½ cups packed light brown sugar
1 cup sugar
5 large eggs plus 2 yolks
2 tsp. vanilla
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup cocoa powder
½ tsp. cinnamon
2 tsp. baking powder
½ tsp. baking soda
A pinch of salt
1 ¼ cups sour cream at room temp
¼ cup whole milk
1 cup chopped walnuts
1 cup milk chocolate or white chocolate chips
GLAZE
4 oz. semisweet chocolate, chopped
4 Tbsp. butter cut into 4 pieces
½ cup heavy cream
½ tsp. vanilla
⅓ cup hot (not scalded) milk
CRUST
1 ½ cups flour
⅓ cup powdered sugar
¼ tsp. salt
10 Tbsp. cold, unsalted butter (cut into ¼” pieces)
FILLING
16 oz. cream cheese (softened)
¾ cup sugar
2 large eggs at room temp
½ tsp. vanilla
1 tsp. finely grated lemon zest or
½ tsp. lemon extract
¾ cup strawberry preserves
Place the oven rack one space above the center rack. Preheat oven to 325ºF. Butter a bundt pan (preferably non-stick) and set aside. Using an electric mixer, cream butter, gradually adding in the sugars. Add the eggs and the yolks, one at a time, beating after each addition. Blend in the vanilla. Into a large bowl, sift flour, cocoa powder, cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Set aside. In a small bowl, combine sour cream and milk. Add ⅓ of the dry ingredients into the creamed mixture and beat on low. Add in half the sour cream mixture and blend. Repeat with the remaining dry ingredients and the sour cream mixture. Fold in walnuts and chocolate chips. Bake for 70–75 minutes or until a tester comes out clean. Let the cake pan cool for 30 minutes on the counter or stovetop. Carefully run a butter knife around the edge to loosen slightly. Then invert onto a cake stand or plate and unmold the cake.
Glaze the cake while still slightly warm. As the cake is cooling, combine chocolate, butter and cream in a microwave-safe bowl loosely covered to prevent splattering. Heat for 45 seconds, about 15 seconds at a time until the mixture is hot and the butter is nearly melted. Let stand for 5 minutes, and then stir to blend. Add the vanilla and powdered sugar. Whisk until smooth. Thin the glaze with just enough hot milk to make its consistency a little thinner than heavy cream. Spoon glaze over cake.
Strawberry Cheesecake Dream Bars
Butter a 9” x 9” baking pan and set aside. To make the crust, combine flour, powdered sugar and salt in a food processor. Pulse to mix. Add the butter pieces and pulse until the mixture is still crumbly but holds together when pinched. Press the mixture evenly into the pan. Refrigerate for 10 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Bake the crust on the center rack for 15 minutes; then cool a cooling rack.
For the filling: Beat the cream cheese with an electric mixer, gradually adding sugar. Beat in the eggs one at a time. Mix in the vanilla and lemon zest until it is blended smooth. Set aside. Spread the preserves over the crust. Then slowly pour the cream cheese mixture over the preserves, spreading evenly with a spoon. Bake on the center oven rack for 25–30 minutes until the filling is set. The edges may be a little puffier than the center, which should have a sheen. Cool completely on a cooling rack. Then cover the pan with foil and refrigerate several hours before slicing
EAGLE SCOUTS IN ACTION
Eagle Scout Bob Lappin
Written by John Huthmacher
Being an Eagle Scout has been a source of pride for Bob Lappin for more than 65 years. As a Boy Scout coming of age in the mid-1950s, Lappin enjoyed exploring Native American customs and practices with his unit, Explorer Post 502, Mi-Kan-Na-Mids (translated to “Scout”). Themed troop activities included making authentic Indian attire (“not costumes,” he said) and learning traditional Indian dances. “I remember the impact of going through the entire program as a boy.”
Class of 1959
Lappin has maintained a hand in scouting in some capacity, serving as a scoutmaster and an Order of the Arrow advisor. In 1983, Bob Lappin was presented with the Quivira Council’s Silver Beaver Award, the highest award given to an adult volunteer. Recently Lappin was recognized by the Quivira Council with the James E. West Fellowship Award.
The 79-year-old husband of Carolyn and father of two was also honored at a reception given by the local council of Eagle Scouts held at the Wichita Country Club. This was in appreciation of his devotion to overseeing the advancement of more than two dozen Eagle Scout members during his many years of service. The list of names includes community leaders such as Paul Attwater, Dr. Kevin Hoppock, Steve Philip and Sean Philip.
Lappin remembers well how it felt to achieve his Eagle badge through hard work — it’s an opportunity he aims to share with all eligible scouts: “It is totally about seeing my boys advance. I try to find a counselor for them to earn their merit badges before they age out. I’ve had to get many of them off their butts to get them through to Eagle. I say to parents, ‘Why doesn’t he have his Eagle? I’m going to get him!’ ”
“Eagle Scout just makes one a better individual who can be honest and represent himself, his family or his business,” he said. “If I can help them, I’m willing to do that.”
Quivira Council and Paul Attwater, Financial Advisor at 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.
Happy Holidays
Written by Julie Hying
“Not what we say about our blessings, but how we use them is the true measure of our thanksgiving.” — W.T.
Purkiser
Countless opportunities and programs for giving live in every city and town across the globe. These fortuitous moments might require little effort, but mean a great deal to the recipient. As humans we long for community, understanding, companionship and simple pleasures that fill our souls with hope, inspire us to live intentionally, with joy and to share those gifts with others. Blessings, abounding or subtle, are meant to be shared and often appear in the way we use our time, talents and treasures.
A contradiction of sorts, time is both finite and infinite. It marks the days and passing hours, flies in the sunshine, falters in the rain. Although measured in likeness every twenty-four hours, a day can feel like a mere moment or an eternity. Invaluable, yet as a gift, it is freely given. Sharing time is a uniquely human aspect that can make a significant impact.
Senior centers and hospitals are filled with people who spend much of their days in solitude. Visiting with the sick or elderly can be both enlightening and enjoyable. Playing cards or games together gives a specific focus, but also an easy and natural backdrop for conversation. Churches, community centers, even pre-schools provide opportunities to share an hour or two of one’s time supporting others, doing good in the world.
In passionate ways, artists, writers, athletes, musicians and many others share their innate talents. But one need not possess a rare or extraordinary ability to share gifts. Perhaps someone has a certain skill: playing guitar or piano, painting or print making, displaying athletic abilities on the tennis court or golf course, excelling at billiards or bowling or culinary arts. All of those skills can be shared and taught. Coaching young kids also affords an incredible opportunity to share time and talent. Baseball diamonds, basketball and volleyball courts, football, lacrosse and soccer fields are
filled with energy and excitement, and being part of that enthusiasm and encouraging love of a sport is both inspired and time honored.
Another idea for giving includes creating a “blessing bag,” to keep in a vehicle. This is a large Ziploc bag that holds items that would help someone and could be easily given. This bag could contain almost anything: a five- or ten-dollar bill, chapstick or lotion, a bag of chips, beef jerky or a Slim Jim, a warm hat and gloves, a gift card to a local restaurant or store. Blessing bags are a beautiful way to share our treasures.
MEET A RISING STAR Crave Beauty Academy
Kylie Bishop, Kylie Bannister, Christine Thompson and Lauren Russell
Amira Yaacoub and Jordon Woodruff – Beauty Lounge Studios
Erin Garcia – Erin E’nae Hair and Beauty.LLC
Candy Rosner and Adrienne Fry – Cosmo Prof
Tiffany Moore and Meghan Martinez – Salon Brands
Crave Academy rising stars
Michelle McKenzie – Haus of You asthetics lounge
Toni Walker, Kim McIntosh, Michelle Hengler and Jessica Milstead – Great Clips
Journie Bales, Kameron Wilson, Alyah Lopez and Kylie Bannister
Darci Kier and Shelby Miller – Sport Clips
Rachelle Richards, Jessy Orty and Journie Bales
Alyah Lopez and Kylie Bannister
’Tis the Season for Entertaining
As December gatherings and festivities bring the year to a close, people find a special spirit in the cusp of winter. Time spent together may include gift giving, musical selections, movie watching, thanksgiving, holiday parties, spirits and of course, delicious foods. Here are some recipes to bring magic to seasonal celebrations.
Written by Julie Hying
Savory Sausage Bites
1 box Red Lobster Biscuit Mix or 2 cups Bisquick
1 lb. Jimmy Dean sausage 2 cups grated sharp cheddar
Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Add the biscuit mix with seasoning pack to a mixing bowl along with ground sausage and freshly grated cheddar cheese. You can use a masher or stand mixer with a paddle attachment to combine the mixture, but it’s best to utilize disposable gloves and mix by hand to ensure everything is well incorporated. Work the mixture until it is fully combined. It may take some time, but it will come together perfectly. Grab a small bit of the ingredients and roll it in your hands to create small 1 ½” balls that are well-formed and compacted.
Line your sausage balls on a parchment-lined baking sheet about ½ inch apart. They will puff up just a bit, but you can still place them fairly close together. You should end up with around 32 cheddar bay sausage balls, which means you may need two trays. Bake for 20–25 minutes
VARIATIONS
Sausage Balls with Cream Cheese – Elevate your sausage ball game by adding 4 ounces of cream cheese to the mixture to make the sausage balls extra cheesy.
Spicy Jalapeño Sausage Balls – Turn up the heat with a spicy variation by adding ½ cup of diced jalapeños to the mix. This version brings a kick of heat to the savory sausage balls, adding a zesty and flavorful twist to your usual snack.
Maple Glazed Sausage Balls – Add a touch of sweetness to your sausage balls with a maple glaze. 2 Tbsp. melted butter and ¼ cup maple syrup creates a sweet mixture to brush over sausage balls after they come out of the oven.
Elegant Gouda Pinwheels
2 sheets (1 package) of Pepperidge Farms Puff Pastry
8 slices of gouda
12 thin slices of Boar’s Head Honey Maple Ham
2 Tbsp. butter
2 tsp. Dijon mustard
2–3 Tbsp. fresh spinach minced in food processor
½ cup finely shredded mild cheddar
Preheat the oven to 350ºF. In a glass bowl, microwave or melt butter and set aside. Cover a large sheet pan with parchment paper and set aside. Prepare a flat counter surface. Using a rolling pin, roll out two sheets of puff pastry side by side. Brush 1 tsp. of Dijon mustard onto each. Place six slices of ham on each sheet. Cover with four slices of gouda over the ham. Sprinkle the spinach over the gouda. Then sprinkle ¼ c. mild cheddar over each of these. Roll into a log lengthwise and cut into 1” pinwheels. Place pinwheels on a prepared baking sheet and brush each pinwheel with the butter. Bake for 20 minutes or until golden.
White Christmas Margarita
18 oz. coconut milk (in a can)
6 oz. coconut water
6 oz. Cointreau or Grand Mariner
9 oz. Patron Silver or other high quality blanco tequila
½ cup fresh lime juice
3 Tbsp. agave syrup
Garnish items: lime wedges and sea salt for the rims of glasses, fresh or frozen cranberries or vanilla-orange sugared cranberries.
In a large glass pitcher, add full fat coconut milk, coconut water, Cointreau, silver tequila, lime juice and agave syrup. Using a whisk, stir ingredients together until coconut milk no longer separates. (If you wish, prepare glasses by rimming with lime juice and turning over on a plate of salt — not necessary but adds a special touch). Pour over ice and serve.
Shortbread Jingle Bells
Irish Caramel Coffee
1 oz. caramel vodka
2 oz. Irish Cream (Baileys or St. Brendan’s)
6 oz. freshly brewed coffee Whipped cream topping Smucker’s or Ghirardelli caramel to drizzle over the whipped cream Pour caramel vodka in a coffee mug or tall glass. Add the coffee and Irish Cream. Top with whipped cream. Lightly drizzle the caramel over the whipped cream topper.
½ cup unsalted butter at room temperature (plus more to butter the pan) ¼ cup granulated sugar
¼ tsp. almond or vanilla extract
1 ¼ cup all-purpose flour
¼ tsp. salt
4 tsp. Christmas-colored nonpareils
Preheat the oven to 325ºF. Butter the bottom and sides of an 8 x 8-inch pan, then line with parchment paper, pressing the sides and corners to stick. In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, sugar and extract at medium speed until creamy, about 1–2 minutes. Add the flour and salt. Mix on low speed until well mixed. Stir in the nonpareils until evenly distributed.
Use your hands to knead 4 to 5 times to form a dough ball. Transfer the dough to the lined pan and press evenly into the bottom. Use the parchment paper to lift the dough from the pan and transfer to a cutting board. Cut the dough into ½-inch square pieces (a pizza cutter works well). Place the squares ½ inch apart on an ungreased baking sheet; discard parchment paper. Bake for 13 to 15 minutes, or until bottoms just begin to brown.
Notes: If the dough is too dry, add a splash of milk until the mixture comes together. Don’t add too much. Make sure your butter is at room temperature. Too soft, and the cookies will spread. Too cold and the dough will be too dry.
Wichita
Credit Union of America
Idalia Shuman, Sen. Molly Baumgardner and Diane Albert
Carla Eckles, J.K. Campbell and Dawn Pleas
Anita Mendoza and Susan Addington
Dr. Prisca Barnes and Fayola Oyatayo
Danielle Ramirez, Caela White-Kinchion, Tasha Hayes, Nicole Brown, Janisha Kirby and Monique Garcia
Holy Savior Catholic Academy
Brad Richards, Gina Johnson and Misty Bruckner
Gordon Parks Academy – 3rd grade choir
Jennifer Friend, Ed McKechnie, Howard Smith and Jennifer Kulp
Cindy Hand, Aimee Shultz and Marietta Wetzel
Capital Federal
Susan Estes, Verner Cartledge and Linda Baker
Wichita Collective Impact
Ryan Baty, Maggie Ballard, Lavonta Williams, Brandon Johnson and Diane Albert
Layia Wisariua, Pheobe Sims and Amya Williams
Kody McDowell and Kimberly Wilson
Judge Jennifer Jones and Judge Jacqueline Kelly
Terrell Davis, Lavonta Williams, Sandra Rankin, Allen Smith, Lora McLaurin, Janice Thacker and Patience Temple
PBS Kansas
Tasha Hayes, Essence Redd, Erik Stone, Nicole Brown and Kisha Hines
Wichita Park and Recreation Dept.
Stephanie Wise, Kenya Cox, Linda Baker and Tonya Buckingham
Rick Remsberg and Jeremy Sundgren
GIVE THE GIFT OF A SAFER RIDE!
At Best Body Shop, we believe peace of mind is the greatest gift you can give your family. With O.E.M. parts and repairs that follow manufacturers’ guidelines, our skilled technicians ensure your vehicle is safe, reliable, and ready for the road ahead.
Whether you’ve had a recent accident or just want to make sure everything is in top shape, we offer free consultations to guide you on the best repairs for your vehicle. Drive into the holidays knowing your loved ones are protected.
A Tradition Reimagined
Written by Karen Long | Photography by Aaron Patton
Ballet Wichita’s 50th ‘Nutcracker’
For 50 years, Ballet Wichita has brought the beloved holiday magic of “The Nutcracker” to life for Wichita audiences. This year’s anniversary production promises the timeless beauty of Tchaikovsky’s score and classic choreography, reimagined with an inspired vision from artistic director Logan Pachciarz, whose journey with “The Nutcracker” began in childhood.
“When I was 10 and 11, I auditioned for ‘The Nutcracker’ at Nashville Ballet, and I was given the role of Fritz, Clara’s mischievous brother,” says Pachciarz. Today, with decades of experience, he brings a new perspective and original choreography to Ballet Wichita’s stage.
Pachciarz’s vision for this production blends traditional choreography with modern theatricality and refreshed storytelling, making this “Nutcracker” feel alive and relevant to today’s audiences.
“This year with Ballet Wichita is my first foray into choreographing an entirely new ‘Nutcracker’: fresh slate, fresh ideas, fresh acting, fresh choreography,” Pachciarz says. He describes his vision as sweeping, yet traditional, “with all the wonderful characters that people have come to know and love over the years.”
The Ballet Wichita Symphony will accompany the performance under the baton of Whitney Reader, whose approach adds an energetic new dimension to Tchaikovsky’s iconic score. Guest artists, including principal dancers from Kansas City Ballet, will join the cast of over 120 Ballet Wichita members.
A Half Century of Impact, A Future of Opportunity
Executive director Sandy Wolter is leading Ballet Wichita into its 51st year with a series of bold, visionary initiatives, including the launch of Wichita’s very first professional ballet company and an intensified focus on dancer training. “We’re thrilled to announce that Wichita now has a professional ballet company,” Wolter says. “This is a monumental achievement for our organization, our community and our dancers. Thanks to the unwavering support of our donors, board members, and our incredible staff, we’re excited to bring this elevated level of artistry to Wichita.”
In addition, the Ballet Wichita Academy, led by director Brette Sweeney, has expanded its curriculum to include preparing dancers for professional careers. “Our academy now offers a robust training program that helps students transition smoothly into professional roles,” says Pachciarz. “As they graduate from high school or college, they’ll have pathways into apprenticeships and positions within Ballet Wichita and other professional companies. We’re building a bridge to careers that didn’t exist here before.”
Over the past year, Wolter and Pachciarz have also assembled a dynamic team to broaden ballet’s reach in the community.
“We’ve developed a great team that not only handles our major productions but also coordinates community outreach events with various organizations, allowing us to connect with new audiences and bring ballet to more people than ever,” Pachciarz explains.
“It’s truly exciting to be part of Ballet Wichita on this milestone 50th anniversary,” he continues. “This feels like a fresh start for the company, and it’s been incredible to contribute to the artistic team at such a pivotal time. I can’t wait to see where we go from here.”
Ballet Wichita Presents the 50th ‘Nutcracker’
Featuring the Ballet Wichita Symphony Century II Concert Hall
Friday, Dec. 13, 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 14, 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 15, 2 p.m.
For more information go to balletwichita.com
Purchase tickets through Select-a-Seat: selectaseat.com/ballet
CATTLE BARON’S BALL
Wichita Marriott
Dennis and Debi Mullins, Tricia and Eric Brown Rebekah and Nick Snyder, Curt Ghormley, Ashlyn Runnion, Sarah and Dr. Jordan Marshall
James and Fe Vorderlandwehr
Chad and Allison Patton, Amy and Josh Sheppard
Rob and Lynn Jacobs, Sierra Scott, Harrison Schenk, Susan and Mark Douglass
Lisa Teachman, Jessica Lee and Curt Ghormley
Cattle Barons Ball event committee
Eric and Samantha Neuberger, Keisha Humphries and Brian Olson
Andrea and Thomas Budwell, Dustin and Kara Suffield
Janele and Mike Rohlmeier
Connor Hurst and Kelli Sleefe, Chris and Matt Schultz
Angie Von Feldt, Chad Walers, Heather and Don Burner, Curt and Nicki Klein
“CTO” Ladies
Michele Glancy and Ann Houk
Lauren Linweber, Matthew Schippers, Landon and Megan Grams
Laurance and Tish Keap, Tena and Ken Stoppel, Leslie and Josh Robertson, Brad and Stacey Goolsby
Jerry Addington and Bonnie Ryland
Tanner, Jessica and Annie Lee
Mark and Monica Ingalls
Dennis and Debi Mullins, Cindy Patry and Susan Perkins
Speedtrap Distillary – El Dorado
Theo and Susan Sponset, Lisa Teachman and Curt Ghormley
Paul Mainz, Patrice Grauberger, Bob Baldauf and Eileen Kludt
Merry Murray-Roger, Gordon Rogers, Christopher Trimmell and Brenda Rodriguez
The Joyful Holidays in December
By Julie Underwood Burton
Treasured Memories of Local Community Leaders
December is the month for joyous holiday celebrations, each with traditions rich and diverse. Here’s a look at the most celebrated December holidays, including favorite holiday memories shared by several of Wichita’s community leaders.
Posada
The traditional Mexican Posada is a celebration held between December 16 and 24 that honors the story of the pilgrimage of Joseph and Mary as they search for a place to give birth to Jesus. Families celebrate with prayers of thanksgiving and have a fiesta with traditional foods and games, including the breaking of a piñata.
Gary Torres, incoming president of the Hispanic Chamber, grew up in Emporia and his family’s most important family tradition was going to midnight Mass each year. He recalls how his church only seated 75 and many families had to stand outside in the snow to attend the service. His favorite memory is the big Christmas day meal shared with 10 kids. As the family grew with the addition of spouses and more kids, they had to eat in shifts. His mom and sisters always made homemade tamales with pork meat and some fabulous dessert tamales which he recalled had raisins added to the recipe.
“Celebrate as many holidays as possible with family and friends and take lots of pictures at every gathering. Preserve those memories by sharing them with those you love. It is important to share memories made and to pass down those images to future generations.”
— Gary Torres
Hanukkah
Hanukkah is the eight-day Jewish festival of lights, celebrated with a nightly menorah lighting, special prayers and fried foods. Traditionally beginning at sundown December 25 and ending at nightfall on January 2, this holiday commemorates the victory of the Maccabees over the Syrian Greek army and the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem.
Julie Fruhauf, director of the Mid-Kansas Jewish Federation, believes the most special part of their holiday was the time spent with grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins. Everyone would gather around to light the menorah and share a meal. Today, family members still laugh at how she and her cousin would pick out all the mandarin orange slices from the Jell-O mold her mom or aunt would make, which caused the dish to shrink in size. However, the diminished dish was still served alongside the very popular potato latkes. “Hanukkah is not Hanukkah without potato latkes!” declares Fruhauf.
One truly special tradition Fruhauf has started with her own children is lighting a menorah candle that belonged to her parents. She says, “It still had wax on it, and I have never washed it, and we just let wax drop on it year after year.” Her children recognize how special this tradition is, so they do not wash their menorahs either and today they have years of “family wax” on each of the menorahs.
“Sitting together around a table with family and friends is the best thing anyone can do to celebrate a good time or a bad one. It is healing. Sharing a meal is an important tradition and every holiday has its traditional foods. Everything is better with food and family!”
— Julie Fruhauf
Kwanzaa
Kwanzaa honors African-American culture and is celebrated every year from December 26 through January 1. Families and friends typically gather each day during the week-long celebration to give thanks, exchange gifts and share feasts.
Dr. Maaskelah Thomas, administrative assistant with the African American Council of Elders, says, “Kwanzaa holds special significance because it creates an inclusive space for all of our relatives, especially since not everyone celebrates Christmas.”
Thomas adds, “This is a profound celebration that allows us to honor and teach our children about the richness and beauty of our culture and heritage, and Kwanza serves as a powerful reminder of our commitment to growth and unity.”
Thomas’ most cherished Kwanzaa memories revolve around the Nguzo Saba, the seven principles that guide the celebration. Each day, they light a candle in the kinara, a symbolic seven-stick candle holder. One of the youngest children has the honor of lighting the candle while family members recite the corresponding principle and share personal reflections on its significance in their lives.
Kwanzaa meals focus on vegetables and fruits, and on the final day — which coincides with New Year’s Day — the traditional meal featuring black-eyed peas and collard greens is served, which symbolizes prosperity and good fortune for the year ahead.
Thomas adds, “My absolute favorite dish is the sweet potato casserole with its warm, comforting flavors that also evokes fond memories of family gatherings and represents the love and care that goes into our holiday meals.”
“This time of unity allows us to share our stories and celebrate our successes from the past year and renew our commitments for the upcoming year. Celebrations also emphasize the importance of connection, reflection and the shared journey of growth.”
— Maaskelah Thomas
Christmas
Christmas is a Christian holiday that celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. Celebrated in our country on December 25, this holiday is steeped in many beautiful family and festive traditions, but the most anticipated moment for children is when Santa Claus, originally known as a patron saint of children named St. Nicolas, arrives with gifts on Christmas Eve. Former City Councilman and newly-elected Sedgwick County Commissioner Jeff Blubaugh lived next to a beautiful Catholic cathedral where he would serve midnight Mass on Christmas Eve. Traditionally, his entire family would attend Mass, and they would take turns guessing who might fall asleep in church each year. Blubaugh and his family often would not arrive home from Mass until after 1:15 a.m. in the morning. Those late hours never stopped the family tradition of unwrapping the gifts once home in those wee hours, but Santa’s gifts did not arrive until Christmas Day. Typically, the Blubaugh home was filled with family, including grandparents; the family favorite holiday snacks were venison jerky and summer sausage!
Often during the Christmas season, one of Blubaugh’s notable favorite memories included the holiday city lights tours with his real estate clients. The rented party buses would be filled with colorful lights, holiday music and lots of great hors d’oeuvres. The buses would pass by many of Wichita’s great holiday displays, including The Arc’s Lights on St. Paul, now known as Lights at Ability Point, and the very popular neighborhood display in northwest Wichita named Candy Cane Lane.
“There’s almost an endless list of holiday events in Wichita and surrounding towns, some classic and some new. There’s something for all ages so load up your family and friends, start new traditions and enjoy the holiday season!”
— Jeff Blubaugh
May your holidays include many joyful holiday celebrations filled with family, friends and an array of memorable traditions to recall and share in the years to come!
Tremendous Teens
Written by Julie Hying | Andover High School English teacher
LEADERSHIP HUMILITY HUMOR
One aspect that educators value about any student is the quality of being coachable: exhibiting strength of character, understanding humility, displaying a willingness to try new things and explore new ideas. Among many wonderful and coachable students at AHS is senior Tate Hutchinson.
Tate comes from a family of teachers who have instilled in him the value of education and the importance of investing himself in every opportunity to learn. His mom, Melanie Hutchinson, is an ELL educator at Wheatland Elementary. Brett Hutchinson, Tate’s dad, is a principal IT architect for Sedgwick County.
Brett’s and Melanie’s parents were also lifelong teachers shaping Tate with a passion for learning and investigation: Dennis Hutchinson was a celebrated choir teacher in Smith Center and self-proclaimed musical nerd. Pam Hutchinson, an English teacher, was grandma and grammar wizard to Tate. Bob Reed served as a school counselor and basketball coach for many years and was recognized as a Kansas High School Hall of Fame Coach in 2009.
Tate’s grandmother, Sandy Reed, taught English and was later the heartbeat of Andover High, to kids as well as fellow teachers, through her dedication to reading. She reflects on her oldest grandson: “We all knew very early on that he was obsessed with learning, and it came easily for him. Even as a young boy, it was hard to keep up with his current interests. Incredibly curious, physically active, determined,
competitive and kind, Tate possessed an advanced sense of humor. He has always made us laugh.”
Tate’s inspired curiosity and love of learning continually propel him to achieve academically. The dayto-day dedication and devotion to acquiring knowledge help him hone problem-solving skills and critical thinking.
“Tate is a special student,” says Robin Anderson, Andover Middle School math teacher. “He is trustworthy, dependable, responsible and takes pride in his community. He works hard in and out of the classroom. Plus, as all of the other students rush out of a classroom, Tate stays behind to thank the teacher, ask a quiet question or to befriend a lone student. He is truly exceptional.”
He has taken challenging courses, been a forerunner among his peers and shown humble leadership, greatly influencing those around him.
Joel Schaefer, Andover High School social studies teacher, says, “Tate is an amazing young man whose dry wit, charm and inquisitiveness is infectious. Every day he brings a levity and humor to our class discussions coupled with insight and wisdom.”
Some of the lessons Tate carries with him come from family members or his experiences in the classroom, but others come from his commitment to sports. Tate feels that wrestling has shown him “perseverance and accountability. Matches and practices can be difficult and intense. They require an understanding of body mechanics and how to use one’s body to create leverage.” Tate considered one wrestling coach, Boo Dryden, to be a coach he grew with and would now call a friend. Dryden helped shape Tate’s sports mentality as he pursued his own dreams by wrestling Division I for Big 10 schools in Minnesota and Nebraska.
Through football, Tate learned how communication is key and crucial to the success of every single snap. Relied on greatly by his teammates, he supports his team on both sides of the ball, playing offensive tackle and defensive end. Through this teamwork and cooperation, Tate will take those developed attributes as he works toward his future goals.
With a heart for service and a mind for complexities, Tate plans to study medicine at The University of Tulsa. As a recently named National Merit Scholar, Tate joins a very elite group of students recognized for their academic drive and achievements as well as an advanced ability to learn. The road ahead may prove challenging, but hard work is nothing new for this Andover High senior, and it pairs perfectly with his goal to help others as a physician.
Tate Hutchinson, National Merit Scholar
Senior Night at AHS, Tate with his parents Brett and Melanie Hutchinson
Tate with sister Malia, brother Drew and grandparents Bob and Sandy Reed
Photography by Melanie Hutchinson
GET (Christmas) LIT!
Written by Alexis Evans
Wichita is a city that loves the holiday season, which is made obvious by the amazing selection of events and light displays. Creating this moment with your family is the perfect way to find calm in the chaos and create new memories. Peruse one of the many options below to find that special moment.
Botanica Illuminations is a well known and popular holiday attraction, and the perfect place to create a tradition with your family. From November 29 to January 4, you can take the whole family to see this spectacular display. This two-million-light display was recently voted into USA Today’s “Top 10 Best Light Shows” in the country, and features a mega-sized dancing Christmas tree, a land of miniatures, and even a carousel. Visit the website for ticket info, special ticketing options and other FAQs. botanica.org.
Luckily for Wichita, Wild Lights at Sedgwick County Zoo opened in October, and runs all the way through December 22. This family favorite lights up the zoo with one-of-a-kind Asian lantern sculptures. As if you didn’t need more motivation to check out this fun tradition, each of the zoo concession locations is serving up special menus for Wild Lights hours, including paninis, s’mores, bubble waffles, cocktails and beer, and lots of other fun treats! Visit the website for ticketing information and other FAQs. scz.org
Fulton Valley Farms in Towanda, KS, is once again hosting A Country Christmas, and is a marvelous spot to create wholesome memories with your family. Visitors to this idyllic farm can view the live nativity scene, visit Santa and his reindeer, or walk through a wooded path lit with 1,200,000 music-coordinated lights. This amazing and immersive experience is a long-standing top family holiday destination; with events and lots of cozy lights, every visitor will be excited to visit. Visit the link to view special holiday events, admission information and directions. This is a must-visit holiday location. fultonvalleyfarms.com
Wichita boasts many amazing displays of Christmas and holiday lights, both in activity-driven locations such as Botanica Illuminations, and in displays that are put together by people for the pure purpose of sharing Christmas joy with their friends and neighbors. One such place is Candy Cane Lane in West Wichita. The whole cul-de-sac in this neighborhood participates in this spectacular showing, and the result is a delightful and exciting display. Ready to take the tour? Visit this helpful article published by Visit Wichita last year, which lists homes and neighborhoods known for sharing their light displays for all the world. Be sure to check the links before visiting, as some displays update their dates and hours according to weather. Go to visitwichita.com and search “Best Places to See Christmas Lights in Wichita.”
You truly cannot go wrong with any of these attractions. Whether you are looking to take a drive around with the family piled into the car, or want to visit a Christmas wonderland, you have plenty of options right here in Wichita!
Wild Lights
Candy Cane Lane
A Country Christmas
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