Raising the Curtain on Our Central Cast Behind the Scenes
How long have you been working with SPLURGE?
Ever since the creation of the magazine. I photograph fashion every other month. I also shoot the cover and a sprinkling of ads. How did you get started in photography?
I learned photography in my high school yearbook class. My boyfriend-turned-husband (23 years and still going strong!) bought me my first really nice camera. He would take me for long drives in the country and we would find cool churches and barns and paths to photograph. I loved it. Then my best friend bought a portrait studio and I went to work for her.
Tell us about your other businesses around town.
Along with my portrait studio in Old Town, I also have a real estate photography business, which includes five photographers and a drone pilot. Plus, I have a real estate team where I partner with Mikaela Rehmert-Fira at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Penfed Realty. Our team name is Rehmert Andrews & Associates. We have 10 team members.
What is one of your happiest memories?
Family vacations of course! One year we got trapped in a blizzard while eating dinner in a mountaintop fondue restaurant in Keystone, Colorado. The gondola was closed down due to the blizzard, and we were all trying to figure out if we were going to have to sleep there. There was a break in the storm and 150 people were able to travel down in the gondolas to the base of the mountain. It was delicious food with great friends and a tiny bit of danger.
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
Jamie Luallen - jamie@splurgemag.com
@splurgeict splurgemag.com
Accounting Firm of Esther M. Mollhagen, CPA
Graphic Design Mitch Gee
Contributing Writers Julie Underwood Burton, Alexis Evans, Paige Feikert, John Huthmacher, Julie Hying, Dawn Tucker
Guest Columnists David C. Austin
Fashion Photography Darrin Hackney
Local Faces Photography Michael Carroll Jr.
Tobie Andrews, Photographer
INSIDE THIS ISSUE:
10
Wichita Man Finds His Leading Lady
In pursuit of the golden rose, Chock Chapple was looking for someone he was really compatible with, and he found her in Golden Bachelorette Joan Vassos.
38 Elegant or Easy Valentine’s Fashion
From a clingy carmine dress to a slouchy pink sweater to a red cowboy hat, we have you covered for an elegant excursion or a fun, quirky evening with friends.
56 Dinner for Two on the Town
Cozy booths, candlelight and artful dishes make a romantic night to remember. Couples celebrating Valentine’s Day have a wealth of fine dining choices in the ’Ta.
Chock and Joan
“The Golden Bachelorette”
Photography
Tobie Andrews Photography
Location
Wichita Country Club
60 Valentine’s Crafts With Kids
Baby footprints across a canvas, potato stamp art, decorated sugar cookies and heart pillows are just a few imaginative ways to spend quality time with kids this month.
66
Valentine’s Movie Match
Grab your significant other, kid, dog or favorite gal pal and let this flowchart lead you to the perfect movie, from “Ghost” to “Princess Bride” to “The Notebook.”
- Harmony Home Concepts
team of surgeons, physicians, nurses, technicians and support staff 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.
Wichita Man Finds His Leading Lady
Written by Paige Feikert
Chock Chapple and Joan Vassos of “The Golden Bachelorette”
The heart of the country is the new backdrop for the love story that captured the attention of America. ABC’s Golden Bachelorette Joan Vassos accepted a marriage proposal from local insurance executive and Garden Plain native Chock Chapple in the finale of the first season of the show last November.
Since the finale, America’s newest favorite couple has spent time together across the country: New York, Vassos’ home in Maryland, and of course in Wichita. The couple rang in the new year in Wichita and spent time shopping and dining in the city, making stops at some of Wichita’s most popular local shops such as the Spice Merchant, Nifty Nut House and Cocoa Dolce.
“I wanted Joan to come back and meet my friends and go out and have dinner and have fun and show her my house and the world’s largest sock collection,” Chapple said. “We are eating and drinking our way through Wichita.”
Blind Date on National TV
Chapple’s story with the “Golden Bachelorette” started when his daughter, Taylor, submitted an application on his behalf, posing as Chapple.
“She’s got this incredible outgoing personality and she called and said, ‘Dad, you’re not going to like what I did, but I signed you up for [“The Golden Bachelorette”],’ ” Chapple said. “She really cares for Joan and Joan’s family. Taylor just wanted me to be happy; she’s had a lot of fun with the process, too.”
While Vassos was familiar with the “Bachelor” franchise after appearing in the first season of “The Golden Bachelor,” Chapple had never watched an episode from the “Bachelor” franchise, something he thought gave him a unique edge.
“I wanted to come in completely new, not having any idea of what I was getting myself into,” he said. “Everyone just stopped and said, ‘this guy has no clue,’ but I liked it that way, and I still have the golden rose.”
Wichita native Chock Chapple
“To make this succeed you can’t hold back, because it’s such a short journey . “ – Joan Vassos
Vassos and Chapple grew close while filming “The Golden Bachelorette,” making the most of their brief interactions together, starting with the very first night that ended with the rose ceremony where Vassos eliminated six of the 24 contestants.
“The first rose ceremony people would say, ‘Chock looks so nervous.’ I wasn’t nervous — I was tired,” Chapple said. “It’s that process of letting all of the gentlemen have time with Joan, so it takes a long time.”
Vulnerability and Compatibility
Vassos was much more well-versed in the ”Bachelor” franchise than Chapple, having been a contestant on “The Golden Bachelor” and watching other seasons of the “Bachelor” and ”Bachelorette.” She notes that she encouraged contestants on the “Golden Bachelorette” to make the most of their time with her.
“I told the guys you can’t leave anything on the table — all of these interactions are important, anything you want to tell me you have to put it out there,” Vassos said.
From the beginning, Chapple set one thing as priority while he pursued Vassos — compatibility.
“What I’m looking for is someone I’m really compatible with and we got really lucky, because you can be in love with someone, but if you’re not compatible it’s not going to work out,” Chapple said. “What are your non-negotiables? We talked about that before a decision was made to see if we’re two people who could make it. Do you have the same morals, the same beliefs?”
“And the same hopes for the future,” Vassos added. “When you’re younger and you’re looking for a spouse, you want to start a family and you don’t know what your life looks like. Now we know what our lives look like — it’s more about what the future holds.”
The Rose Ceremonies
The rose ceremonies, where The Golden Bachelorette chose who would stay and who would be eliminated, became increasingly difficult. Vassos says she didn’t take those decisions lightly, and not having the help of reflecting with family and friends made the decisions even harder.
“I had a terrible time with the rose ceremonies — I hated them. The day before I started feeling down. I felt guilty; I wouldn’t sleep the night before,” Vassos said. “Every single week after the people who didn’t get roses had left and we were in the room doing a toast, I’d look at the group and I’d go, ‘I’m in the right place.’ ”
The rose ceremonies were not the only vulnerable moments for Vassos throughout the show, but opening up was her plan from the beginning. That’s something she learned during her time on “The Golden Bachelor,” and something she wanted to share with the contestants.
“To make this succeed you can’t hold back, because it’s such a short journey,” Vassos said. “It’s a competition but we’re all there, being supportive of each other, because we’ve all gone through some crap in our lives. It’s more about supporting each other in these journeys, so becoming vulnerable is easier, because you don’t have people judging you.”
Chapple also became vulnerable, not only through his relationship with Vassos, but through building relationships with other contestants competing for her affection. He built lasting relationships — many fellow contestants he still talks to months later.
The show wrapped up filming in August, but the couple couldn’t be seen in public until after the finale aired in midNovember. Still, they were able to have several visits postfilming. “We got to see each other almost every other week,” Vassos said. “We got to know each other with almost no noise, we were pretty solid.”
Since their love story played out on national television, Chapple and Vassos have enjoyed getting to know each other, sharing their friends and families, and even their hometowns.
“I’m very proud of Wichita, and I’ve been very happy to have Joan here,” Chapple said.
Up next, the pair is looking forward to spending more time together, moving to New York, and eventually a wedding featuring the golden rose that started it all.
“[New York] is where we want to spend our time together,” Vassos said. “When we’re [home], we’re distracted, and we want it to just be us.”
Happy New Year
If you’re thinking of buying a new house or refinancing your home in 2025 let us start the process now. Being pre-approved takes the stress out of your home-buying experience.
Make Home Bank & Trust your first call for a no-obligation consultation and see why so many people choose our team. You're going to feel right at home with Home Bank & Trust because we don't have
Shining a Light on Teen Dating Violence
Written by Julie Underwood Burton
From Awareness to Advocacy, You Can Help!
February is National Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (TDVAM), and people of all ages are encouraged to raise awareness about teen dating violence and how advocacy and education can help stop dating abuse before it starts.
Today, teens are talking more and more about their abuse — but not enough. The U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention reports 19 percent of teens experience either sexual or physical dating violence and 65 percent have been psychologically abused. Past studies from the Department of Justice also have shown that only 33 percent of teens reported their abuse to anyone, and 81 percent of parents believed teen dating violence was not an issue.
Often, these young people do not yet have skills to manage conflict, and most youth do not know how to cope or navigate feelings of jealousy, rejection or the fear that arises with sexual aggression, according to the American Psychological Association (APA). Plus, the APA reports how challenges have intensified with the rise of social media because teens’ lives, thoughts and opinions are exposed online, which add feelings of shame and fear of judgement.
Teen dating violence is an issue that impacts everyone including the teens and their parents, teachers, friends and communities. New approaches to prevention and intervention are critical.
Free and Confidential Help From a Local Organization
In our own city, Wichita Family Crisis Center (WFCC) works to increase our own community’s understanding of the dynamics of domestic violence and the needs of victims, including teens. Their mission is dedicated to preventing domestic violence, providing needed services and advocating for survivors.
“Our advocates spend a significant amount of time doing presentations and trainings for community members, agencies, religious organizations and schools,” states Tracey Gay, WFCC’s director of client services. “Our outreach team works with various middle schools and high schools in multiple counties. We have been able to reach colleges and universities as well to make sure the message is being shared and people know what resources are available to them. WFCC services are free and confidential, and our hotline is answered 24/7 by an advocate.”
Here are ways you can help through the Wichita Family Crisis Center:
• Spread the word about the center
• ”Follow” and “like” the center on social media: @WichitaFamilyCrisisCenter
• Make a donation online or contribute wish list items listed on their website
• Contribute to WFCC every time you shop at Dillons. (You can register or link your Dillon’s Plus Card to WFCC)
• Invite interested community members to tour the center and learn about their mission
• Become a Guardian Angel (women’s group whose mission is to support WFCC)
• Encourage youth in grades 9–12 to apply to serve on the Youth Advisory Council
• Become an advocate
• Plan to attend the Hope Gala, a benefit for the Wichita Family Crisis Center, on March 7 at the East Wichita Marriott. Or become a sponsor. For more information or tickets, go to WFCC’s website at wichitafamilycrisiscenter.org.
We can educate ourselves to become greater advocates for our youth. It is critical to talk to young people about the dangers of teen dating violence and educate them about the warning signs of dating abuse and how everyday media portrays healthy and unhealthy relationships. Loveisrespect. org and youth.gov are both excellent resources that can also be of help and provide an array of information on their sites about risk factors for teen dating violence victimization and perpetration.
Above all, connect teens to these resources that will help them. Be inspired to help, be inspired to give — not just in February, but every day throughout the year.
& ANSWERS QUESTIONS
Q. Tell us about yourself and your role with the American Heart Association?
A. I relocated to Wichita from Lincoln, Nebraska, in 2018. My journey in the nonprofit sector began with the American Cancer Society after my father passed away from cancer. In 2018, I was recruited by a retail company opening in Wichita to manage their community relations and events. My role involved collaborating with nonprofits and raising funds for their organizations in Wichita and the surrounding areas. During this time, I formed a strong connection with the team at the American Heart Association (AHA), supporting their events and fundraising efforts. In 2019, I joined the AHA as a development director. Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to advance in my career and now serve as the senior development director. My responsibilities include raising funds in the Wichita market, increasing awareness, and recruiting volunteer leadership. I manage our local board of directors and the AHA development team, which engages the community through fundraising events such as the Heart Ball, Heart Walk, Teen of Impact and Woman of Impact.
Q. Why is recognizing February as Heart Month so important?
A. February is American Heart Month, a time when everyone, especially women, is encouraged to focus on cardiovascular health. Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the nation. As a mom and a person who lives with a hole in my heart, I am deeply committed to ensuring all women have the opportunity to live long, healthy lives. For Heart Month 2025, the American Heart Association has set an ambitious goal of doubling the survival rate of cardiac arrest by 2030. To achieve this, we must increase the number of people who respond to cardiac arrests by calling 911, performing high-quality CPR, and using an AED as soon as it is available. We encourage everyone to join the Nation of Lifesavers and learn CPR today!
With Heather Smart Senior Director of Development American Heart Association
Q. How does the American Heart Association give back?
A. The American Heart Association is not only a driving force across the country, but right here in Wichita, too. The organization teaches the importance of hands-only CPR, funds innovative scientific research and advocates for stronger local and state public health policies. From visiting schools to providing crucial resources to local groups, we are boots on the ground in Wichita and across the state of Kansas. We have also made blood pressure kits available for checkout at libraries around the county to relive the financial burden and encourage people to monitor their blood pressure.
Q. How can readers get involved with events like Heart Ball and Heart Walk?
A. The Heart Ball is an elegant gala and Wichita’s most significant fundraiser. This event brings together 500 community leaders, philanthropists and volunteers to celebrate the American Heart Association’s mission and raise funds for research, education and community programs. You can participate in the Heart Ball by becoming a sponsor, volunteering or forming a team to raise funds together. High school students can appy to become Heart Ball Ambassadors. Other ways to support the AHA include joining the Nation of Lifesavers to learn CPR and joining advocacy efforts to support hearthealthy policies at the local, state and national levels. If you’ve been impacted by heart disease or stroke, telling your story can help raise awareness.
For more information on these events and how to get involved, visit the AHA’s website at heart.org/ en/affiliates/kansas or contact the Wichita office at 316.768.3830. Your participation can help make a difference in the fight against heart disease and stroke.
Sponsored by Phoenix Home Care & Hospice
Alex Melugin, President of Phoenix Home Care and Hospice
A Circle of Support
Written by David C. Austin | Outreach and development director, AbilityPoint
Celebrating Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month with AbilityPoint
You may think February when you think love, but our heart is in March. Since it was signed into law as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month in 1987, March has served as a call to action for communities across the nation to honor those living with disabilities and provide an opportunity for them to thrive in their communities.
In our own community, we have a special place where abilities are highlighted every single day. AbilityPoint is a nonprofit, founded in 1953 for providing inclusion and opportunities for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD.)
When Marilyn Belcher received custody of her grandson, Caleb, she found a network of support at AbilityPoint: “For Caleb, this is his circle, his safe place. AbilityPoint is a miracle. I don’t know where we’d be without them, really. It’s just been a real blessing.”
These heartfelt words encapsulate the spirit of AbilityPoint, a vital regional organization that has transformed the lives of thousands of individuals with developmental disabilities. As the largest targeted case management provider in Kansas, AbilityPoint offers guidance, advocacy, and a sense of belonging to those who need it most.
The Purpose of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month shines a spotlight on the triumphs and challenges faced by individuals with developmental disabilities, such as autism, down syndrome, cerebral palsy and more. It’s a chance to break down barriers, educate the public, foster inclusion, promote accessibility, and share stories that inspire and educate.
AbilityPoint: A Lifeline in Wichita
For more than 70 years, AbilityPoint, formerly known as The Arc of Sedgwick County, has been a beacon of support for families in south-central Kansas. Through youth programs like Youth Education and Summer Socialization (YESS) and Discovery Days, AbilityPoint provides much-needed respite and enrichment for working families during school breaks. Meanwhile, adults benefit from year-round social and recreational activities and self-advocacy events. With over 250 activities annually, AbilityPoint serves more than 2,000 individuals, creating opportunities for personal growth and community connection.
How You Can Get Involved
There are many ways to support Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month and AbilityPoint’s impactful work:
1. Spread Awareness: Invite AbilityPoint to speak at your business, civic group or church to increase understanding.
2. Volunteer: Passionate individuals are always welcome to contribute their time and talents to AbilityPoint’s programs and events.
3. Inclusion and Acceptance: Find ways to include individuals with developmental disabilities in your workplace, social gatherings and community.
4. Support the Mission: Attend the EDGE gala on March 13, an inspiring evening of stories, activities and opportunities to directly benefit AbilityPoint’s programs. Or make a financial contribution to sustain AbilityPoint’s life-changing programs.
A Vision for a Brighter Future
Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month reminds us that a truly inclusive community values and celebrates every individual. Organizations like AbilityPoint and events like EDGE are pivotal in turning this vision into reality. As March unfolds, let’s unite as a community to empower dreams, generate energy, and build a more inclusive Wichita. Together, we can create a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive and shine.
Carie Glaze and Jacob, ready to watch the Chiefs
Aaron Mathews and Jacob
Improving Lives One Project at a Time
Written by Paige Feikert
Harmony Home Concepts Celebrates 20 Years
Wichita’s premier home repair and home organization business is celebrating 20 years of service. Harmony Home Concepts is a local family business providing high quality home solutions and filling a need in the Wichita area.
“It’s a high level of service — all of our reviews are five-star reviews and we really want to reflect the family perspective of wanting to be successful and taking care of your home,” said Phil Davis, owner of Harmony Home Concepts.
In their two decades of business the company has grown and expanded from handyman services to include custom slide-out shelves and closet solutions. The business operates under the name Harmony Home Concepts, which includes The Best Home Guys, Slide Out Shelf Solutions and Harmony Home Closets. The motivation for expanding the business was driven by their customers.
Over the years, the business also grew to include Phil’s wife, Shelley, and their daughter, Kaylee Thompson, whose young son also hangs out at the office sometimes.
“Kaylee has the support to do whatever she needs to do, which provides something that a lot of moms don’t get, and we feel blessed that we can put that as part of who we are as a business to benefit all of us,” Shelley said.
The business started after Phil was laid off from a corporate job in 2005. He looked at ten different business opportunities, including a handyman franchise. Though he had no experience owning a franchise, the Davises wanted to stay in Wichita and try something new, and they saw a need in Wichita.
“We’ve tried to answer a need for our clients — high service and guaranteed,” Shelley said. “I can guarantee that it will be done right, it will be done efficiently, and if something goes wrong, we fix it and we always have.”
The Davises stayed with the franchise for ten years, but then spun off with their own company The Best Home Guys. When the company first started, Phil had limited background in home repairs
— namely working on projects at home and rental properties — but he did have a strong customer service foundation, which set the stage for the company. Harmony Home Concepts offers a guarantee for their services: a 12-month warranty for all handyman work, and free repairs for any slide-out shelves and closet solutions for as long as a customer is living in their home, plus their Extraordinary Service Promise, which is a guarantee to clean up, show up on time and take pride in their workmanship, going above and beyond any customer’s expectations.
“Phil would be what you might call a backyard mechanic, as far as home repair goes. He can do it, knows a little about it. It wasn’t his career, but he was able to bring a level of professionalism to an industry not known for professionalism,”
Shelley said. “We were the first professional home repair service in the city. We offered a guarantee, we answered the phone, we showed up at an appointment time, we did it differently than what had been done before.”
It’s their customer service and high-quality work that has grown their brand throughout Wichita over the last two decades.
“We have people who we’ve done slide-outs in one home and now they’ve moved into another home, so they’re calling us again,” Shelley said. “That reputation is something we’ve worked hard to preserve and really be unique.”
Harmony Home Concepts also specializes in adaptive home solutions and Phil is a certified aging-in-place specialist, making homes more accessible, particularly for seniors.
“We help people stay in their homes with adaptive access, and we learned early on that people need to stay in their homes, and we can do that through rails, larger doorways and other solutions,” Phil said.
As Harmony Home Concepts celebrates 20 years of service, it’s clear their commitment to quality, professionalism and customer care has set them apart in Wichita. From their humble beginnings as a familyrun handyman service to becoming a trusted provider of custom home solutions, their journey is a testament to hard work, innovation and genuine care for their customers. Here’s to 20 years of making homes better—and many more to come.
Where to Find Them
Phil and Shelly Davis with daughter Kaylee Thompson
SPLURGE! CHRISTMAS PARTY
The Home of Terry and Jody Klein
Greg Sullivan, Andrea Dixon and Robyn Sullivan
Jody Klein and Lisa Barmor
Esther and David Mollhagen and Sherry Baker
Cara and Fayola Oyatayo
Ashley Moore, Cara Oyatayo and Addi Lowell Ann and Dennis Ross
Joana and Byron Cleary
Cara Oyatayo, Jaylee Hennessy and Kassidy Watkins
Jackie and Darren McGilbray
Jody, Terry and Taci Klein
Grant, Mae and Jennifer Bauserman
Dennis and Debi Mullins
Santa, Jody and Terry Klein, Averie Mountain and Alexis Smith
Natasha and Martin Park
Nick, Kinsley and Jaime Luallen, Kim Dugger Attwater and Paul Attwater
Lisa Anderson and Blake Nelson
Kim Dugger Attwater and Paul Attwater
Kara Billie and Amy Mulch
Santa and Michael Carroll Jr.
Megan and David McGraw
Jessika Mayer, Stephanie Sutton, Dawn Tucker, Jody Klein, Pat Thompson, Megan McGraw and Kelly Watkins
The Whitaker family and Jesse Robideau
Peter and Erika Salmeron
Michael O’Donnell, Caleb James and Grant Davis
Looking for Love in All the Right Places
Written by Alexis Evans
Anyone who’s ever seen a romance movie is familiar with the supposed signs of love: sweaty hands, quickened heartbeat, butterflies in the stomach when the object of your affection draws near. But these are merely the feelings associated with attachment. As Valentine’s Day approaches, many begin to interpret these feelings as “true love.” How do you gauge if your connection is a true and lasting love, or something that is fun but fleeting? Here are a few questions you can ask yourself when wondering whether your love will last.
Do they respect you?
Knowing and identifying when someone respects you can be difficult, especially if you have never seen that healthy interaction before. A sign that someone respects you is that they actively listen to you when you speak. They don’t just listen to respond but listen to understand. When they engage you, and when they validate your feelings and opinions, this is a huge sign that not only do they love you, they respect you and want to know you more.
Do their actions show regard or contempt?
It may go without saying, but the opposite of respect is contempt. This can look like invalidating your actions, thoughts and opinions (this can be subtle too). It can be name calling, or even just showing little to no interest in who you are or what you care about. If your partner is showing these signs, it may be a sign that it’s not meant to be.
Do
they talk about the future with you in tangible terms?
If you haven’t already done so, open up a conversation about your future together. This doesn’t mean immediately jumping to how many kids you want. It can simply look like opening a dialogue about what you see for yourself and your relationship. If your partner seems to be in line with your thoughts and in agreement, that’s an excellent sign. But if they are vague, or if they don’t seem interested in discussing the future in any terms, they may not be ready for the relationship to move forward the way you want it to.
Do they respect and honor your boundaries?
Mental health plays a central role in human relationships. Because of this, more people are developing an understanding of how to set and respect boundaries. You likely have your own set of boundaries whether you realize it or not, and upon reflection can probably identify them. The question is, does your partner maintain and respect those boundaries, or do they ignore them and brush them aside? This goes back to respect: if they don’t respect your boundaries, chances are they don’t respect you.
Do they make an effort to get to know those closest to you, your family and friends?
Families can be complicated. Friendships can be dicey. Yet we all have special non-romantic relationships in our life that we know are lasting. Does your partner recognize these relationships, and make an effort to get to know those people who are important to you? If they want to know your people, it means they want to know more of you. Lasting love is more than just flowers and gifts. While these can be tokens of a true and lasting love, they merely scratch the surface of what it means to be fully dedicated to another person. Valentine’s Day sometimes paints an unrealistic picture of relationships that are truly functional and healthy. Hold your standards high for someone who treats you with love and kindness every day of the year — especially Valentine’s Day.
EAGLE SCOUTS IN ACTION
Eagle Scout Carl Coonrod
Written by John Huthmacher
As a youngster raised in the city, scouting opened a whole new world to Wichita resident Carl Coonrod.
Coonrod, 74, spent a good portion of his formative years in Maize, Kansas, amongst urban surroundings, showing little interest beyond the city limits in terms of potential life opportunities. It was through his involvement in scouting that “Carl ‘Fred,” as he became known, was introduced to the great outdoors. This exposure influenced his second career choice running the family ranching business from 1998–2004 after working much of his professional career in construction alongside his since-passed father, Carl.
“Scouting was a great experience for a kid in the city,” Coonrod said. “The summer camps really opened my eyes to a lot of stuff urban kids don’t see.
“I think all kids need to have something like that, some kind of group organization that gives you great education in all kinds of circumstances. I was taught to be prepared, respectful, and to try to do things right. Scouting kept me on the right line.”
From hiking excursions on the Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico to canoeing adventures through the backwaters of Minnesota and Canada, there was always something new for him to explore in summer camp as a member of the Scouting troop out of Woodland Methodist Church in Wichita. It was at age 16 in 1966 that he earned his Eagle Scout merit badge through a project that helped determine the necessity of a new stop sign placed at a busy Wichita intersection.
Shortly thereafter, he earned Old Warrior status in the Tribe of Quivira at Summer Camp after chiseling his initials in a rock and carrying it for a week. His etched rock was placed at the campsite. He also earned his Indian name which, translated, means “Good Helper.” During his stint at Quivira Scout Ranch he accompanied the troop with pack donkeys on a day and night excursion through the woods that included a snipe hunt, where younger Scouts were captured and “bagged” during evening activities.
As a rancher, Carl and his wife, Donna, (who share five children), hosted an annual “Kids Day” event for fourth graders of Elk County, introducing them to a myriad of activities that included hayrack rides, saddling horses, collecting dropped antlers in the woods, storytelling, roping and other ranching duties foreign to most of them. He likened the enlightening experience to the many learning opportunities afforded him during his years in Scouting.
“It opened my eyes to everything around me,” he said. “My troop leaders were fantastic. For urban kids, I think it is probably one of the best things they can do to learn honesty, respect and life’s teachings.”
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.
Written by John Huthmacher
Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor Meet Barbara Spurlock
When those dealing with addictive behaviors seek help from licensed clinical addiction counselor Barbara Spurlock, it doesn’t take them long to realize they are dealing with someone who speaks their language.
Spurlock, 69, is an Ohio native and Wichita resident who has twice rebounded from alcohol and drug abuse through treatment programs, showing by example that there is always hope for those trapped in addictive behaviors to reclaim their lives through sobriety. Working with Dr. Gregory Lakin at Center for Change, an opioid medication assisted treatment center, she has helped provide clients with invaluable tools to understand and combat their destructive behaviors, strengthening her own resolve to stay the course in the process, after 30 years of sobriety.
“I’m trying to give back what was given to me,” Spurlock said. “I know what my patients are going through. I remember what I went through and try to explain to patients that it does get better.
“I still have times where, if I didn’t have a full toolbox, I could relapse. Doing this job keeps me strong and focused, helping me to provide services to the best of my ability.”
Spurlock’s struggles with addiction began following her divorce at age 20. Reared by a strict “Victorian” father, she found herself increasingly enticed by the freedoms she would come to abuse with her friends. A single mother raising two sons, she turned to alcohol to satisfy her lust for fun, leaving her teenage son to care for his 7-year-old sibling while she routinely partied into the wee hours of the morning.
“It was like I felt free to do whatever I wanted, so I started drinking night after night with friends,” she said. “We would drink until it was time to go to work the next day. It was very excessive.”
Continuing the cycle for nearly a year, Spurlock’s selfdestructive behavior caught the attention of local law enforcement. Though able to function at her job as program director at a home for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, her virtual abandonment of her children led to threats of disciplinary action from the court system.
“I was gone a lot,” she said. “I was still functioning at my job: I just wasn’t there for my kids. They had everything — food, shelter and clothing — but I was absent.
“I didn’t know anything about addiction, and because it (alcohol) could be bought, I didn’t think anything was wrong. When I finally started getting alerts from the courts, I went to treatment and quit drinking.”
But after years of sobriety, her “addictive brain” quickly became enamored with opioids, an addiction she never saw coming. Initially prescribed by her doctor following surgery, she found it impossible to wean herself off them once the prescription expired. Her habit required spending most of her food and housing money on the addictive drug obtained from friends.
“I really got out of control. I almost lost my house. I knew I had a problem and went to a mental health facility. My therapist saved my life.”
–
Barbara Spurlock
“I really got out of control,” she said. “I almost lost my house. I knew I had a problem and went to a mental health facility. My therapist saved my life.”
After moving to Wichita, Spurlock obtained her master’s degree in family therapy, putting her expertise to work at Center for Change for the past 11 years.
“I’ve impacted a lot of lives,” she said. “It’s why I will work until I can’t work anymore.”
Live Life to the Fullest With
For those struggling with debilitating depression, NeuroStar offers significant, long-lasting improvement. Affiliated Family Counselors is excited to offer this proven treatment, which uses a non-invasive magnetic field similar to an MRI to activate the natural function of the brain's neurotransmitters.
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.
GIRLS’ NIGHT OUT
The Home of Terry and Jody Klein
Dawn Tucker, Stephanie Sutton and Megan McGraw
Betty Troutman, Cathy Mitchell, Mignon and Mary Brewster
Jody and Taci Klein, Hadasa and Lisa Barmor
Natasha Park and Jennifer Pitt
Stephanie Sutton, Aja Drake, Veronica Stuart, Jody Klein, Megan McGraw, Jessika Mayer, Pat Thompson, Dawn Tucker
Rick Barnett and Peggy O’Donnell
Margaret Graff, Eileen Kludt and Kathy Wulf
Stephanie Sutton, Aja Drake, Megan McGraw, Veronica Stuart and Dawn Tucker
Lisa Barmor, Sveta Yakubovich and Hadasa Barmor
Martha Messman, Margaret Graff, Carol Ann Ramsay, Margaret Shook, Vicki Young, Eileen Kluzt and Sundie Campbell
Tayton, Jody and Taci Klein
Betty Troutman, Margaret Graff, Vicki Young, Sundie Campbell
Jessika Mayer, Sierra Scott, Jody Klein and Erin Rhinehart
Betty Troutman, Cathy Mitchell, Jody Klein, Angela Pirner, Mignon and Mary Brewster
Autumn Lowen and Pat Thompson
Melissa Tucker, Andrea Dixon and Peggy O’Donnell
Jamie Luallen and Kelly Watkins
Sheri Love, Jody Klein and Jessika Mayer
Jessika Mayer and Jackie McGilbray
Shanie Rucker and Debbie Bequette
Meredith Young and Dana Lonergan
Ronetta Norris and Jackie McGilbray
Jody and Terry
Jessika Mayer, Jody Klein and Dawn Tucker
a f e f o r e a c h p a t i e n t W e e k l y w e i g h - i n s ,
c o a c h i n g a n d s u p p l e m e n t s a r e a v a i l a b l e t o e a c h p a t i e n t d u r i n g t h e i r w e i g h t l o s s j o u r n e y
D u r i n g t h e m o n t h o f F e b r u a r y , a n y N E W p a t i e n t t o
s i g n u p f o r a w e i g h t l o s s p r o g r a m w i l l r e c e i v e
B 1 2 p a i r s g r e a t w i t h t h e w e i g h t l o s s i n
CHAMPAGNE AND CHOCOLATES
Home of LewJene Schneider
Sharon Iorio, Paula Morris, Jan Jones, Janet Meyer and Ginny Bair - EM P.E.O. ladies
Jennifer Hall, Lindsay Hall and Sandy Wendt
Joann Pottorff, Ann Staples, Linda Peressin and LewJene Schneider
Fawn McDonough and Kate Bastian
Coleen Jennison, Melody Metulewic, LewJene Schneider and Leslye Woodard
Amy Scheer, Patricia McNeill, Rhonda Rickert, Barbara Waitt
Adrienne Rosenberg, Marion Coultis, Mary Eves and Shoko Sevart
Joanie Firsching, Jamie Katzenmeier, Linda Hollis, Eilene Cooke and Carol Noel
Debbie Donaldson, LewJene Schneider, Leslie Wessel, Rita Bagby-Kuykendall and Becken Morel
Stephanie Sutton, Kelly Watkins, Jody Klein, Dawn Tucker, Megan McGraw, Pat Thompson, Jessika Mayer and Kassidy Watkins
Heidi Surber, LewJene Schneider, Diana Stanley and Susan Addington
Diane Hsu, Elizabeth Cochran and LewJene Schneider
Shari Hand, Vicky Rockhill, Cindy Hand and Patty Armstrong
Stephanie Wise, LewJene Schneider, Hazel Stabler and Jessika Mayer
Tony Caputo, Teresa Winfield and LewJene Schneider
Melissa Mallony, Sylvia Do, Coleen Jennison, Martha Thompson-Messman, Jeananne Houchen and Barbara Baan
Julie Gentile and LewJene Schneider
Ladies celebrating
Judy Weatherall, Jennifer Hall, Laura Roddy and Betsy Redler
Terisa Olson, Nancy Shih, Nancy Lawrence and Ashley Lawrence
Maunie Stilwell, Adrienne Edward, Mary Campuzano and C. Linda Mason
Vicky Rockhill, Michelle Naftzger and Karla Fazio
Pat Porter, Marilyn Tadman, Diane Lachenmayr, Ann Crow, Mim Hiesterman and Barbara Murphy
Megan Sullenger and Deb Stockman
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.
Think Pink and Red Valentine’s Day Outfit Inspo for Every Body
Roses are red, and so are the trending outfits this month! Red and pink happen to be two of my very favorite colors, and this season they’re stealing the spotlight. This time of year we can all agree that love is on our minds. Whether it’s a love for chilly weather, hot cocoa, fireplaces or chocolate, February has a way of spreading this warm, fuzzy feeling through the air.
As we lean into the spirit of Valentine’s Day, I couldn’t wait to share some amazing finds and stylish options that work for just about anybody and every body type. If you’re like me, you know the thrill of finding an outfit, bag, accessory or pair of shoes and then hunting down the best bargain. Well, look no further! Whether you’re dressing for valentines or galentines, I’m here to help you find that perfect outfit to make you feel confident and fabulous
Let’s talk style: I love the idea of pairing a mini skirt with cute tights or socks, standout shoes, and yes—the perfect clutch or shoulder bag to complete the look. These elements come together to create a flirty, chic vibe that’s perfect for the season of love. If you’re planning a romantic dinner, a fun brunch with friends, or even a cozy night in, these pieces are versatile enough to fit the occasion.
Let’s take a cue from the classic movie “Grease” and its famous line: “Think pink!” In my case, it’s more like, “Think pink and red.” Embrace these bold, beautiful colors and let them light up your February wardrobe. Here’s to finding the perfect outfit and having a happy Valentine’s Day!
Pink clutch
Red heart shoulder bag
Pink mini
Pink heels
Red ruffle dress Red heart mule
HOLIDAY
Barbara Mann and Timi Caro
Cyndra and Jim Whiddon
Patricia McNeill, Cheri Hoover and Brenda Fulmer
Erica W. and Jennifer Johnson
Selah Walker
Gabby Tanner and Kylie Lewis
Patricia Thompson and Dawn Tucker
Martha Thompson-Messman, Sheri Love and Patricia Thompson
Stephanie Sutton, Dawn Tucker, Jody Klein and Jessika Mayer
Gabby Tanner, Libby Welu and Cameryn Spell
Samantha Carney, Barbara Mann and Candy Hardesty
LBD staff
2 0 2 5
March 8, 2025 Share Your Shine! Share Your Shine! The International Women's Day Celebration recognizing Women who shine is back at a new location! Mark your calendars to join Storytime Village for this unforgettable experience! Proceeds will support Storytime Village’s early literacy initiatives in Kansas
CATHY MITCHELL SURPRISE BIRTHDAY PARTY
The Home of Terry and Jody Klein
Ryan McKay, Eliabeth Mitchell, Cathy Mitchell, Ashlie and Rick McKay
Terry and Jody Klein, Cathy Mitchell and Dean Zook
Jody Klein, Cathy Mitchell, Hankie Holefelder and Angela Priner
Cathy Mitchell, Rebecca and Jason Kandt
Cathy Mitchell, Dale and Rebecca Steven
Betty Troutman, John Kready and Cathy Mitchell
Natasha Park, Cathy Mitchell, Jessika Mayer and Lisa Barmor
Dora Coccetella, Cathy Mitchell and Kathleen Tate
Ryan McKay, Elizabeth Mitchell, Cathy Mitchell, Scott McEwen, Grace and Michael Sanchez
Tom and Connie Rudd, Cathy Mitchell, Grace and Michael Sanchez
Lori Holt, Kathleen Tate, Cathy Mitchell and Ann Wommack
George Dragush, Mignon Brewster, Cathy Mitchell and Scott McEwen
Dinner for Two on the Town
Written by Julie Hying
Elegant and Elevated Valentine’s Day Experiences
No one can argue that Wichita, from east to west, offers an array of quality restaurant experiences, from quick and easy to leisurely and elegant. Winter weather invites couples to celebrate their connection in cozy booths and in places with a hint of intimacy. Often the atmosphere is created with soft lighting and candle glow, beautiful and sometimes live music, crafted or specialty cocktails, artful dishes, perfect pairings and delectable dessert selections.
Itzcali Tapas and Tequila
Celebrate love this Valentine’s Day with an unforgettable dining experience at Itzcali Tapas and Tequila!
Indulge in a 3-course meal featuring an appetizer to share, and entree for each and a dessert to share. Enjoy a romantic evening filled with delicious flavors, handcrafted cocktails, and a cozy ambiance perfect for you and your special someone.
Available: Friday, Saturday and Sunday
Price: $70 per couple
Location: 2819 E. Central Ave., Wichita, KS 67214
Reservations: Call 316.358.9955 to book your table now
Valentine’s Menu for Two
Starter - Choice of one to share
Tuna tartare
Dipping trio bruschetta
Calamari Mediterraneo
Entree - One per person
Skirt steak and enchiladas
Linguine poblano with choice of protein
Fajitas with choice of protein
Tacos: choice of street tacos or quesabirrias
Dessert Pink tres leches with strawberries
Deluxe chocolate cake
Siena Tuscan Steakhouse
Nestled in the classy Ambassador Hotel, Siena Tuscan Steakhouse calls to mind northern Italy by offering a signature dining experience showcasing the cuisine of Tuscany. The atmosphere exudes urban style and sophistication and offers a subdued ambience enhanced by beautiful natural lighting during the day and quiet candlelight at night. Its location and valet service offer easy access to countless venues including Intrust Bank Arena, the Orpheum Theatre, Music Theatre of Wichita and Wichita Grand Opera.
Siena offers breakfast and dinner menus featuring locally sourced food crafted to northern-Italy-style cooking and preparation. Morning fare selections include a crusty, breakfast piada with potato, eggs, bell pepper, capicola, bacon, chive and salsa. Brioche French Toast boasts sweetened mascarpone, along with seasonal macerated berries, silky syrup and whipped butter. The Four White Egg Frittata includes ratatouille vegetables, sundried tomatoes, baby spinach, ricotta and marinated tomatoes. Tuscan Eggs Benedict features grilled zucchini, capicola, poached eggs, confit tomatoes, basil hollandaise and an English muffin.
Photo credit - sienawichita.com
Photo
6S Steakhouse
Wichita’s westside features 6S Steakhouse, an intimate setting with visual nods to historic buildings throughout the city. Some specific preludes provide an introduction to the meal. Seasonally, the restaurant prepares Purple Rain crafted with Empress Gin, crème de violette, fresh lemon and simple syrup. Blackberry Whiskey Lemonade highlights blackberry- and vanilla-infused whiskey, a simple syrup, lemon juice and soda. Additionally, they mix up four hot takes on a well-loved classic cocktail, the Old Fashioned, as well as other artful spirits, mocktails and wine selections. Some inspired appetizers include wild-caught New Zealand calamari and house-prepared, beer-battered crab beignets with remoulade and pickled peppers. They also fire crispy truffle fries beneath a blanket of smoked gouda, bacon and chive. Another popular patron favorite is the lobster cargot featuring garlic butter and Havarti cheese. A chilled offering is the smoked beef tartare elevated with elements of black garlic, shallot, Dionnaise, mustard seed and truffle potato gaufrette.
Wichita offers many wonderful options for couples looking for an intimate dining experience. From prime steak preparation and tannin-rich wine pairings to classic and inspired French dishes, from Tuscan breakfast and dinner selections to unique, crafted cocktails and delectable appetizers, this city has something for anyone hoping for a romantic, amazing night out and a memorable dinner for two.
Chester’s Chophouse & Wine Bar
Chester’s Chophouse & Wine Bar is an elegant establishment located on Wichita’s Waterfront. It features an extensive collection of perfect pairings, French and Italian reds, choice domestic wines and numerous others from their wine cellar, including patrons’ favorites from the Opus One Winery, Nickel & Nickel and Caymus Vineyards. The spacious outdoor patio and the adjacent indoor patio-area seating provide a gorgeous lake view. Dinner inside includes intimate booths and romantically lit tables that speak of sophistication. On Friday and Saturday evenings, guests may be treated to live music to enhance their dining experience.
Among the many menu favorites, the oak fire grill perfectly sears Creekshire Farms’ Prime Black Angus Beef for which Chester’s is renowned. Beyond this, a specialty steak choice includes Wagyu beef cuts such as ribeye and tenderloin. To further elevate the steak experience, there are house sauce selections: bleu cheese butter, red wine shallot butter, garlic scampi butter, as well as pan-seared scallops, Oscar style and shrimp scampi enhancements. After-dinner decadence can be found with Chester’s “famous” tumbleweeds enjoyed by the glass, pitcher or carafe. They are elegantly served with chocolate shavings, an edible white and milk chocolate ribboned straw and chocolate-covered cherries. Chester’s speaks of elegance, intimate conversation and enjoyment from start to finish.
Photo credit - 6ssteakhouse.com
Photo credit
Chad Glenn and Katie Skouras
Eddy Brotemarkle and Megan Royer
Briana and Stan Bogdan
Andrea Ray, Monnette Gagnon and Clay Gagnon
Akeam Ashford and Brett Harris
Adam Halabi, John David Harris and Nadine Gourley
Dusty Weber and Jamie Brannan
Ashley and John Rhoden, Ted Branson, John Potts
Cleve and Tina Scholl
Jace and Haylee Giffin, Kendall Day
Casino Night event committee
Brian and Sarah Suellentrop, Leah and Paul Suellentrop
Valentine’s Crafts With Kids
Written by Alexis Evans
Valentine’s Day is one of those holidays where it feels right to get a little kitschy with your decor, especially if you have small ones at home. What better way to go all out than doing crafts with your kids? Taking time to do a craft with them will fill their quality-time cup, and give them the pride of accomplishing a fun project with their favorite person in the world. Bonus points if you find a way to display their craft for them to enjoy every day. Don’t be afraid to do a little extra in assisting your child. The outcome doesn’t matter, but what does matter is that you were able to make a fun memory together. Pinterest. com has endless ideas and tutorials for valentines crafts with kiddos! Listed below are some excellent options for all ages that are easily searched.
Infant (0–12 months)
• Heart “hand painting”
• Baby footprints across a canvas
With little babies, your best bet is to do a simple and straightforward craft. Their dexterity hasn’t developed much yet, so letting them play in some baby-safe paint, or capturing their tiny footprints across a canvas is a fun
Toddler (1–3 years)
Construction paper hearts
Potato stamp art
As your little one begins to show more interest in making their own art, these crafts are fun ways to customize their art! These crafts are perfect for the little one who is beginning to make their preferences known. Adding their art to their personal space is a good bonus to making the activity especially memorable.
Kid (8–12 years)
• Heart pillow
• Modge Podge string art
• Decorate a flowerpot
For those older elementary kids or preteens, it might be a little more difficult to convince them to sit down and do a craft with you. These projects are a little bit messy and may take more prep, but anyone can enjoy it. A heart-shaped pillow can be customized with their fabric of choice, and may be a special token as they enter into a fun but challenging age.
Child (4–8 years)
• Decorate a valentine mailbox
• Decorate sugar cookies
• Create heart paper chains
These options are for those kids who are able to handle a pair of scissors. (Or have the impulse control to not eat every cookie they decorate!) Decorating or creating a mailbox can be a fun way for your elementary schooler to collect their school valentines, and is a special memento they can hang onto each year. Paper chains are a fun craft to decorate your home and will give your child pride in
Holidays with kids can feel high-pressure, but these options add a level of simplicity that will help you both slow down enough to enjoy the day and enjoy each other’s presence. You don’t have to have special skills to have a good time with your child.
SPLURGE NIGHT
Charles Koch Arena
Ball presentation
Aliyah Abbul-Hameed, Jeff Boone and Sarah Buffington
Aaron Ramey, Vanessa Comb, Zach Ledwich and Joe Shook
Ginger Baker, Olivia Kerschen and Jenifer McMillan
Jeff and Jana Mullen, Jessi Radmacher and Spike Anderson
Jeff and Susan Bloomer, Jeff Ayesh, Donna and Kevin Ayesh
Dale and Becky Beddow, David and Penne Welch, Alan Howarter and Margo Nunn
Chase, Kristen and Seth Selby with Bowen Parks
Jaylee Hennessy, Jessika Mayer, Jody Klein and Dawn Tucker
Cathy Mitchell, Scott McEwen, Curtis Zerr and Lisa Barmor
Brian and Jill Nitcher, Gina and Kary Dixon
Dennis Mullins, Mariah Schnitker, Isiah Vallejo and Myles Loewen
Lindi Lanie, Chris Wettig and Lymbert “Cheese”Johnson
Kristina Mound, Emma Ewing, Zoe Harris and Logyn Johnson
Jon McConnell, Ryan Blasdel, Justin Baxter and Fahad Feroze
Shane Tucker, Terry Klein and David McGraw
The Hattrup family
The Munby family
Regina Ballard, Brent Kimnitz, Stacie and Reed Williamson
Miles and Mike McCulley, Reed McElroy and Max McCulley
WSU Spirit Squad
Micah and Lamon Kirksey with Trinity Morton
Megan Mcgraw, Dr. Sheri Love and Kelly Watkins
Richard and Judy Ochs and friends
Tremendous Teens
Written
Adison Kamman: A Drive for Sports, a Heart for Service
Youth and high school sports programs teach many fundamental skills: teamwork, sportsmanship, perseverance, the value of working hard, communication and an ability to deal with adversity. Adison Kamman, an Andover High School (AHS) senior, has been playing soccer since she was very young. This experience fostered her love for the sport as well as dedication to her teammates and to working hard.
More recently, she has developed an affinity for rowing. Adison rows on a team with the Wichita Rowing Association and competes against teams from Oklahoma, Texas, Iowa and the Kansas City area.
This new passion may be a pursuit next fall when she attends The University of Kansas where she plans to study forensic psychology before working toward a master’s degree at the University of Denver. In an effort to prepare for the academic rigors that lay ahead, Adison has devoted herself to study and preparation in an
TEENS
AP English class and honors courses while taking on a dual credit course load through Butler County Community College. Along with supporting her teams, Adison has taken on leadership roles that allow her to develop her talents while doing good in the world. With a heart for service, Adison has become involved with Kids for Kids, a club that raises funds and gathers supplies for The Wichita Children’s Home and other organizations that support young people in need. She serves as a committee leader, organizing fundraising events like Trunk-or-Treat so families can participate in an organized, fun-filled event with a goal of paying it forward and uplifting other kids. Her outreach includes collecting gift cards so the organization can host supportive events and reciprocate the kindness with a gift.
Dedicated to being part of something beyond herself, Adison has passionately pursued music with the AHS band and plays both clarinet and bass clarinet. Supporting the drama program by playing both instruments in the pit orchestra for the last three years, most recently she was part of Andover High’s production of “Little Shop of Horrors.”
She has also assumed a leadership position with the National Honor Society as a committee head on its executive team, hosting such events as Light the Night, a school and communitywide fundraiser supporting research in the areas of leukemia and lymphoma. An AHS math teacher and NHS sponsor shares this: “Adison is an exceptional young woman. She excels in the classroom, but even more impressive is the mark she is making beyond her schoolwork. Adison has taken a leadership role in National Honor Society where her servant heart truly shines. She motivates other students by being an example of the power of hard work and determination. Adison truly cares about her fellow students and community, and it shows in everything she does.”
Adison’s ability to work well independently or with others has propelled her academically and socially. She’s also nurtured by close relationships with her siblings, parents and maternal grandparents. In addition to trips and holiday celebrations, Adison and her family spend time playing board games, viewing movies and eating home cooked meals, as well as many other activities shared in each other’s company.
by Julie Hying | Andover High School advisory teacher to Adison Kamman
Imagine possibilities
Full Service Interior Design & Furniture Store
Think Design Source Interiors for your next home/office update Achieving your design dreams is our misson service · expertise · unique-to-you design
window treatment, custom furniture, retail & design showroom
by Nahid Holmes
Nestled in our community, Sparkle Jewelry shines as a beacon of ne craftsmanship and devotion. A multi-award-winning establishment, Sparkle Jewelry has cultivated a legacy of trust, quality, and artistry. We recognize that your jewelry and timepieces hold immense sentimental and monetary worth. Harnessing our passion for the craft along with an unwavering commitment to perfection, we are experts in revitalizing your cherished possessions.
Jewelry Store | Ring Sizing | Rolex Repair | Watch Batteries
