SPLURGE!316 March 2023

IN THIS ISSUE: Shockers Basketball

ICT Irish Feasts

TikTok Trends in Fashion

Heart & Seek

Here’s how to play:

• Find the Heart Diamond in the pages of this month’s SPLURGE! Magazine.

• Go to mikeseltzerjewelers.com and scroll to the bottom to register your answer.

• Like SPLURGE! and Mike Seltzer Jewelers on Facebook and/or Follow on Instagram.

• A winner will be chosen on March 20.

Mike Seltzer Jewelers is giving away this Diamond XO pendant to the winner of the March contest!

Congratulations to everyone who found the Heart Diamond on page 67 of the February issue. Jessica Mollhagen won the drawing and received a pair of diamond earrings from Mike Seltzer Jewelers!

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

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Owners Dr. Terry and Jody Klein

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Steve Ruud

Publisher and President Jody Klein - jody@splurgemag.com

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Editor Karen Long - proofing@splurgemag.com

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Graphic Design Mitch Gee

Contributing Writers Julie Underwood Burton, Alexis Evans, Julie Hying, Lauren “L” Mercado, Amy Palser, Joe Stumpe

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

Fashion Photography Darrin Hackney

Local Faces Photography Michael Carroll Jr.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

8 Shockers Up the Tempo

Late in the season the Shocks are still bringing the passion and boosting the pace, thanks in large part to the big men and leading scorer Jaykwon Walton, according to Coach Isaac Brown.

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TikTok Trends in Fashion

If you’ve been noticing full monochromatic outfits in lime green, welcome to just one of the trends born on social media — thanks to influencers who now hold more sway than traditional fashion houses.

46 Bodybar Pilates

A big believer in intentional body movement, Kalene Hoffmann offers classic yet modern Pilates to Wichitans in an upbeat and inclusive environment for all experience levels. Work that powerhouse!

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ICT Irish Feasts

St. Paddy’s celebrations don’t stop at green beer, Irish whisky and parades. Here are three Wichita establishments serving authentic Irish dishes like corned beef and cabbage, Rueben sandwiches or Guinness stew.

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Best Body Shop

Clay Hoberecht is taking on big insurance. This owner of an auto body repair shop always puts the client experience first, and provides a safe haven from misleading insurance agents and adjusters.

Shockers senior point guard Craig Porter Jr.

Photography: WSU Athletics

Now or Never

Seniors Fuel Shockers’ Late-Season Intensity

Isaac Brown loves the passion that James Rojas brings to the Wichita State basketball team, and the Shockers coach thinks he knows where it comes from. “You know, this is his last year as a college athlete,” Brown said of Rojas, a 6-foot-6 forward.

After an All-American career at Hutchinson Community College, Rojas spent three injury-marred seasons at Alabama before transferring to WSU as a sixth-year senior.

“He’s a guy that’s willing to do everything he can to win a basketball game,” Brown said. “A guy that’s willing to play through injuries. He’s had a couple games where he sprained his wrist. He turned his ankle, I think, in the South Florida game. It was purple and black, and he still went out there on the floor and was able to play.”

Or as Rojas said: “Any time I get to be on the court, man, it’s a blessing.”

Not that Rojas’ last year as a college athlete has been bumpfree. Through mid-February the Shockers had played well against some good teams (Missouri, Kansas State, Houston) but came up short, showed a propensity to blow leads (against those three teams plus Tulane, East Carolina and Central Florida) and compiled a somewhat shocking 2–5 home record against American Athletic Conference opponents.

Despite that, Brown and players believe the example set by Rojas and other seniors is having a positive effect, one that hopefully will lead to wins in March.

Craig Porter Jr., another senior, has enjoyed a much different college experience than Rojas. After helping lead Vincennes to a national junior college championship, he’s spent three years developing into the kind of do-everything point guard

WSU is known for producing. This year, Porter was leading the team in every important statistical category — assists, rebounding, steals, blocks (at 6-foot-2) and minutes played — except scoring, where he stood at second.

The one thing Porter hasn’t experienced yet as a starter is the same level of winning as his predecessors. Porter said the team simply hasn’t played at its best on a consistent enough basis. “Something we still need to work on is just putting a full game together,” he said. “We still, at times, have lapses where we don’t score, or we’ll have a three- or four-minute dry spell where we don’t get any baskets and let our defense slip because of that. So, if we cut that out, we’ll be good.”

Of course, identifying the problem and correcting it are two different things.

Written by Joe Stumpe / Photography by WSU Athletics

James Rojas

Coach Isaac Brown

The day after Porter made his comment, the Shockers squandered two second-half leads and fell at home to Central Florida, which had lost five straight. Porter led the Shockers with 19 points and seven assists, but WSU turned the ball over on six of 10 possessions at one point.

The Shockers narrowly avoided a repeat in their next game, rallying to win a double-overtime game at home over SMU, thanks to sophomore big man Kenny Pohto’s career-high 28 points and another superlative overall game (22 points, six assists, three blocks) from Porter. The game drove home the point that the Shockers need Porter, who played all but three of the game’s 50 minutes, on the court at nearly all times for a chance to win.

With conference games still remaining against the AAC’s top four teams at that point, the Shockers’ hopes of finishing the season above .500 seemed slim. Brown’s biggest challenge has been incorporating 11 new players into the team, even though a majority of them were transfers like Rojas who’d played for other Division 1 schools. A 57–66 home loss to Alcorn State in the second regular season game signaled struggles to come.

“Jaykwon Walton’s a tough match-up

he’s so athletic and versatile … He’s one of the best players in the AAC right now.”

— Isaac Brown, basketball head coach

Brown, now in his third year as head coach, said he’s seen “night and day” improvement on the offensive end thanks to more involvement by big men Rojas and Pohto, who’s second on the team in assists.

The Shockers were held to less than 70 points in 10 of their first 15 games. Stingy defense still allowed them to win seven and keep most of the others close. Starting with a Jan. 8 win over South Florida, WSU scored 70 or more points in eight of 10 games.

“I do feel like we’re playing inside-out more,” Brown said. “The ball is going inside to Kenny Pohto and James Rojas and those two big guys are really making the game easy for the other

players on the team. Getting them wide-open, stationary threes. When they get doubled, those guys cut to the basket for layups. It’s allowing us to get in the bonus early, so we’ve got to continue to do that in order to win games.”

Leading scorer Jaykwon Walton, a 6-foot-7 transfer guard from Georgia, has been named to the conference honor roll after several big games this year and poured in 24 points during the Feb. 2 loss to No. 3 Houston. “He’s a tough match-up because he’s so athletic and versatile,” Brown said. “He can finish with both hands. And now he’s making those stationary threes again. He’s rebounding. He’s one of the best players in the AAC right now.”

The Shockers are also earning more “easy” baskets garnered by pushing the tempo. Brown compared Rojas to former Shocker rebounding machine Rashard Kelly (2014–18) in his ability to collect defensive boards and start fast breaks.

The Houston loss was in some ways a microcosm of the Shockers’ season, at least to that point. WSU led for two-thirds of the game. Rojas recorded a double-double but said what he’ll remember is “our crowd against Houston. That was the biggest our section’s been this season. It was a big time. They were great for us.”

because

Isaiah Poor Bear-Chandler

Craig Porter Jr.

James Rojas

Shockers Hall-of-Famer Teaching Youth Value of Work

Written by John Huthmacher

Cheese Johnson’s Diversity UJump Program Mentoring Wichita Students

Growing up in New York City, Lynbert “Cheese” Johnson learned quickly the value of hard work and its role in making one’s own breaks in life. But it was the helping hand of others in his neighborhood that inspired the former Wichita State Shocker All-American hoopster and NBA player to create the UJump youth program in Wichita.

Now in its third year, the education-oriented program for boys grades 5–7 illustrates how applying a dedicated work ethic in the classroom can lead to honest success in a world plagued with violence and deception. “Kids are committing more crime at a young age,” Johnson said. “It’s sad. We show them that hard work will pay off. We’re letting them see what’s available in life.”

Johnson said it was his good fortune to be raised in Harlem, New York, with concerned parents who enabled him to realize his dreams. “We had parents who helped raise, not only their own kids, but the whole neighborhood,” he said. “That and sports helped me big time.”

Enduring such jobs as helping the elderly with their groceries, washing cars and shining shoes fueled Johnson’s drive to becoming a Hall of Fame basketball player at Wichita State. His pro basketball career included a stint with the Golden State Warriors in 1979–80 and overseas play in European leagues in France, Belgium, Italy and Sweden.

Johnson first entertained the idea of launching the UJump program three years ago while recovering from bypass surgery. Touched by the outpouring of support shown by well-wishers, his response was to create a program geared toward keeping youngsters on the straight and narrow. “That gave me an ‘aha!’ moment,” he said. “Friends said, ‘It’s not time for you to pass away. God’s gift is for you to do something that needs to be done.’ And this was it.”

Still a favorite son of Wichita, his ear-to-ear smile and 6-foot-6-inch frame make him easy to spot at Shocker home games. His annual summer basketball camp for disadvantaged youth is always well-attended.

Participation in the UJump program is limited to 40 male students per year from Wichita schools, selected by their teachers and principals. Seeking to serve students from varying socioeconomic levels, the program currently is at Andover Central Middle School, Prairie Creek Elementary, Brooks Middle School, Holy Savior Catholic Academy, College Hill Elementary, Wichita Collegiate School and Robinson Middle School.

Already the unique program has attracted national attention. Interviews with the Today Show and CBS Mornings with Gayle King are pending. An awards ceremony recognizes the accomplishments of graduates while doubling as a fundraiser for the 501(c)(3) program. This year’s ceremony in May will include an appearance by singer Gary Houston, brother of deceased superstar Whitney Houston.

Essentially a one-man operation, Johnson said UJump could not operate without the support of the Wichita community. Participants must maintain a 2.5 grade point average, though those who fall short but are working toward that GPA are encouraged to apply. Students adhere to a list of 12 core values that call for improved grades, perfect attendance, class participation, and choosing friends who stay out of trouble. Parental involvement is mandatory. Johnson spends an hour at each school daily, visiting with students and teachers to monitor their progress. Monthly field trips by charter bus introduce students to potential career opportunities at area businesses. From maintenance worker to CEO, the impact of seeing actual workers performing their daily tasks can be immediate and lasting, he said. “We show them all the jobs so they can get the ethic,” he said. “It leaves a big impact when they see people at area businesses working their jobs.”

Take Advantage of Falling Mortgage Rates

Written by Julie Underwood Burton

Down Payment Grants for First-Time Homebuyers

Home Bank & Trust Co. has an impressive historical past proudly serving Kansans since the year 1904. For its first 85 years, the bank was firmly rooted in Eureka, Kansas, and later purchased Severy State Bank in 1989. By 1995, they expanded their customer reach to Sedgwick County and built a bank in Clearwater. By the year 2000, the first Wichita bank was opened, and Home Bank & Trust has been proudly serving customers throughout Wichita ever since.

With almost 120 years of banking and lending experience, Home Bank & Trust’s goal is to help our communities thrive by empowering individuals financially and by supporting organizations that make a difference in its five locations, including Wichita, Eureka, Clearwater and Severy.

A full-service bank offering customers personal and business banking, investments and lending options, Home Bank & Trust has held true to their belief that doing the right thing makes all the difference, and they currently offer mortgage and lending solutions that can make a difference in their customer’s lives. Through most of 2022, mortgage interest rates skyrocketed to percentages that home buyers have not experienced in years. There are indicators that a housing market correction is underway with mortgage rates starting to come down, and Home Bank & Trust is offering a new down payment assistance program designed expressly to help first-time homebuyers. Available March 6, Home Bank & Trust is offering first-time homebuyers up to $7,500 in grant funds for those who qualify for home purchases in both rural and urban areas. Funds may be used for down payment and closing costs assistance. To qualify, participants must:

• Be a first-time homebuyer, not owning a home within the past three years

• Not own or be an investor of another residence

• Meet income eligibility requirements

• Complete an online homebuyer education course

• Agree to retain the home for at least five years

• Program reservations accepted on a first come, first served basis

Home Bank & Trust Co. is a full-service lender, and mortgage options offered include:

• Conventional fixed-rate loans

• Adjustable-rate mortgages (ARM)

• Federal Housing Administration (FHA) loans

• Veterans Affairs (VA) loans

• Construction loans

• Refinances, cash-out or straight refinance

The National Association of Realtors predicts that the housing market has reached the bottom of low sales activity. With mortgage rates stabilizing near 6 percent, it appears the housing market will turn around and inventories will also improve this year. This is great news for individuals wanting to buy a new home and is a good time to call on Home Bank & Trust’s years of experience and expertise to help find the right mortgage for your next home purchase.

For more information about mortgage options, including information about the limited grant program offered by Home Bank & Trust Co., or for general information about personal and business banking, call Mai Schendel at 316.686.5000.

While our business is to help people make the most of their money, our passion is to enrich people’s lives, so they can enrich the lives of others.

Where To Find Them

Home Bank & Trust East 1409 N. Greenwich 316.686.5000

homebank-trust.com

Written by Randy Yeisley | Yeisley

When Should You Draw Social Security?

Recently, I posted a one-minute video on Facebook encouraging people not to make the decision about when to draw Social Security based on fear — the fear that Social Security will be discontinued by the government or the fear that you won’t live long enough to wait until a later age. To my surprise, this video created a firestorm! It has almost 500,000 views, 500 comments, 200 shares and 2,000 likes. Most of the comments that people made are not only emotionally charged but also grossly inaccurate. Not that Facebook should be the source of information for anything of great importance, but the level of misunderstanding about Social Security was mind numbing to me.

SOCIAL SECURIT Y ISN’T GOING AWAY

Obviously, Social Security and Medicare have financial problems that the government has to address. According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), unless legislative changes are made by Congress before 2034, the government will only be able to pay 78 percent of the monthly benefits. There have been several potential solutions proposed that would make Social Security solvent and these could include raising the Social Security tax on earnings, raising the wage cap for Social Security taxes, delaying the full retirement age, delaying the early retirement age or perhaps reducing benefits for higher wage earners. The politicians have kicked this issue down the road for as long as they can, and we now only have a decade left to fix the problem. But I believe that the problems will get fixed. After all, Social Security benefits are the sole source of income for nearly 40 percent of Social Security recipients today. Doing away with Social Security would impoverish an entire nation.

LONGEVITY MATT ERS

How long you are going to live definitely affects the age at which you should begin drawing your Social Security benefit. The only problem is, we don’t know how long we are going to live. Your lifestyle habits, medical issues and family history can all affect your life expectancy. One helpful tool is to use a longevity calculator to help estimate your lifespan by taking into account these external factors. You can either Google life expectancy calculators or use the one on our website at yeisleyfinancial.com/longevity-calculator to estimate your life expectancy based on your particular lifestyle habits and your family medical history.

DO THE MATH

If you draw your Social Security at age 62 instead of age 67, you give up 30 percent of your Full Retirement Age (FRA) benefit … for life! Yes, you will get a benefit for longer, but you could end up robbing yourself of more money toward the end of your life when you need it even more. The graph shows the breakeven analysis for an actual 60-year-old female client for various filing ages. You can see that if she lives to at least age 75, she gets more lifetime income from Social Security by waiting until FRA (age 67) than if she drew it at age 62 — and she gets even more lifetime income if she waits until age 70. According to Social Security, the average life expectancy for a 60-year-old female today is about 85.

BOTTOM LINE

Making any long-term decision based on fear will almost always be the wrong decision. Don’t let emotion or fear cause you to start your Social Security benefit too early. Instead, do the analysis for your particular situation and compare all the pros and cons for various filing ages. A comprehensive financial plan will evaluate and optimize when you should start your Social Security benefit. Choose a fiduciary advisor that will put your best interests first, and then make the Social Security decision with confidence.

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

Research Center Looks to Battle Weight Issues with New Drug

Written by SPLURGE! Staff

World Obesity Day is March 4

Worldwide obesity has nearly tripled since 1975, and what was once considered a wealthynation issue has expanded even into third-world countries. In 2016, more than 1.9 billion adults worldwide were overweight, with 650 million considered obese, resulting in obesity-related chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and some types of cancer.

As groups across the world look at solutions to a global problem on World Obesity Day, March 4, a Wichita-area medical research center is doing its part by testing a drug that offers weight reduction and looks to improve obesityrelated diseases, like issues with blood pressure, blood sugar and liver function.

“We’ve seen obesity triple from 1975 to 2016, and it’s increasing in all the age groups — even in kids 5 and under,” said Dr. Terry Klein of Wichita, a partner at the Alliance of Multispecialty Research (AMR). “A large part of this is due to the cultural changes that have happened in the world, where jobs are less physically demanding and transportation is in an easier fashion than it used to be. In addition, foods that are highly dense in their energy content like fats and sugars are consumed more and more all the time.”

AMR is studying a diabetic medication that offers weight loss. Participants will be given either the study drug or a placebo, and all will receive education in diet and exercise, plus encouragement to lower their risk with lifestyle changes. The drug is in Phase 3, which means it has been tested widely with good results, and now thousands of participants nationwide will receive the drug and report on side effects and outcomes. If the FDA approves this phase, the drug will be ready to go to market.

Klein said the study is considered an outcome trial, where researchers look at measurable changes in health to assess the efficacy and safety of the drug over a long period of time. AMR is looking for candidates ages 18–80 who are either obese, or who are overweight and have another risk factor like hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol or cardiovascular issues. “It’s a rather broad look that’s going to be done,” Klein said.

World Obesity Day

The theme for World Obesity Day 2023 is Changing Perspectives: Let’s Talk About Obesity. Established in 2015, the event was created with the goal of stimulating and supporting practical actions that will help people achieve and maintain a healthy weight and reverse the global obesity crisis.

Obesity is a complex condition that results from a combination of genetic, behavioral, and environmental factors. It is defined as having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, while anything higher than 25 BMI is considered overweight. The prevalence of obesity has been steadily increasing worldwide over the past few decades, with the World Health Organization estimating that there were over 650 million obese adults in 2016.

The World Obesity Federation hopes to use World Obesity Day to promote practical solutions for improving people’s health and preventing obesity. This includes advocating for healthier food choices, increased physical activity, and better healthcare policies and practices. The day also aims to reduce the stigma and discrimination faced by people with obesity, who often face social and economic disadvantages.

For more information on clinical trials or to participate, visit heartlandresearch.com or call 316-689-6635.

Dr. Terry Klein

WE’RE CELEBRATING

The party kicks off with giveaways, prizes and MUCH MORE during our 2nd Anniversary Celebration at CrossWinds Casino!

Winners will be cheering for their share of over $50,000 in cash and prizes with promotions starting Wednesday, March 1st.

Creating a Life of Meaning

When Katie Leiding and her husband, Tony, moved to Wichita with their three-week old baby, Tony had just completed eight years as an Army Medevac pilot. They were excited to put down roots in Katie’s hometown. While she was an Army wife, Katie was a Realtor specializing in military relocation, but switched to the nonprofit industry when they moved to Wichita. “My mom, Bunny Hill, had an incredible career in education,” Katie says, “and I always loved seeing the impact she had on people. I didn’t inherit her teaching genes, so I thought I could make a difference in the nonprofit world.”

Katie loved working on a team in service to the community, but missed many aspects of real estate. She and Amelia Sumerell, one of the city’s top agents, spoke often about real estate as they built a friendship.

In the summer of 2019, Amelia shared more of the behindthe-scenes way her team operates as service providers, not salespeople. She invited Katie to join her small, elite “A-Team.” “Amelia completely reframed what a career in real estate could look like,” Katie says. “She offered me a chance to be on a service-oriented team that works together for our clients’ benefit. Everything Amelia’s team does is focused on clients and what is truly best for them. I was intrigued, and in some ways felt like my dad, Patrick Hill, had a hand in it. He had passed away just weeks before this conversation, and always told me he thought my true calling was in real estate.”

Now that she’s worked with Amelia for more than three years, Katie feels like she’s found her sweet spot in life. “Real estate the A-Team way is so fulfilling, and I love what I do. Solving complex problems, brainstorming new ways to market a home, negotiating a deal — it’s exciting and it keeps me energized. I love my clients, and I work my heart out to be worthy of the trust they put in me.”

Best of all, Katie’s heart for the community is encouraged on the Amelia Sumerell team.

Amelia says, “I love seeing the kind of impact Katie makes in the community. She seamlessly blends her vibrant real estate career with her tireless volunteerism. She provides the highest level of service to her clients, while raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for nonprofits to improve life in Wichita.”

“Tony and I feel lucky to raise our little boys, Lincoln and Jameson, in Wichita, and love the lives we’ve created here,” Katie says. “Weaving service to our clients and service to our community together fills my life with meaning. I am grateful every day that I get to do this!”

“Everything Amelia’s team does is focused on clients and what is truly best for them.”

– Katie Leiding, Realtor

Katie Leiding

Amelia Sumerell and Katie Leiding

Katie, Tony, Jameson and Lincoln Leiding

Ami Schlader, Angela Pirner, Dean Zook and Kelsey Lueger

Peggy Williams, Steve Ruud, Dean Zook and Kelsey Lueger

Mignon Brewster, Naomi Arnold, Dean Zook, Pam Parker and Natasha Park

Ritchie Bump, Dean Zook and Holly Bump

Dean Zook, Kelsey Lueger, Andrea and Lance Dixon

Christian Kentling, Lindsey Hall, Dean Zook and Chuck Miller

Mimi and Joey Wakim, Dean Zook and Tony Wakim

Terry and Jody Klein, Dean Zook and Kelsey Lueger

Eli Bey, Dean Zook and Erin Chapman

Jessika Mayer, Dean Zook and Justin Mayer

Steve Ruud and Dean Zook

Dean Zook and Kelsey Lueger

The GOTM Program combines advanced equipment with access to physicians 5 days a week to deliver outcomes comparable to top hospitals. Our residents enjoy: Enhanced menu Activity options

The GO Rehab Program, a nationally recognized leader in short-term rehab from illness, injury and surgery, offers the very best in comfort, privacy and results. Patients benefit from the most advanced therapy, getting them home faster and stronger. 3

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

What Can You Do About Dietand Exercise-Resistant Fat?

Over and over, we hear, “I eat right and I exercise, but my fat just won’t go away.” The truth is that all of us have some fat that is resistant to diet and exercise. So, don’t beat yourself up about that last little bit of fat you can’t get rid of. CoolSculpting Elite may be the solution. Through CoolSculpting, we can target and freeze your stubborn fat. Following treatment, your body naturally eliminates the dead fat cells and flushes them out. This can result in up to 20 to 25 percent reduction of stubborn fat per treatment in the treated area. Your fat continues to melt away over several months.

What is CoolSculpting Elite?

It’s a non-invasive body contouring treatment that permanently freezes fat with little downtime and no surgery. With the new advanced Elite technology, we freeze two times the stubborn fat with dual applicators. As a result, we can treat two areas at the same time it used to take to treat one.

What areas can I treat with CoolSculpting Elite?

CoolSculpting is FDA-cleared to eliminate stubborn fat under the jawline, under the chin, the upper arms, back fat, bra fat, the flank area (love handles), abdomen, thighs, and under the buttocks (banana roll). We can pinpoint your exact trouble spots and customize your treatment plan to your body contouring goals. So not only will your clothes fit and look better, but you’ll feel better, too.

How long does a treatment take?

A CoolSculpting treatment typically takes as little as 35 to 75 minutes, depending on the area treated, with treatment sessions lasting one to three hours on average. We recommend two or more treatment sessions for most patients to help you reach your body contouring goals.

How long do results last?

Once your treated fat cells are gone, they’re gone for good. CoolSculpting is not a weight loss treatment, though. It reduces fat. Your remaining fat cells function as normal and can get bigger or smaller depending on your weight loss or weight gain.

Am I a candidate?

The best candidates are active and eat healthily, but they still have stubborn areas of fat that won’t go away. If you’re ready to learn how CoolSculpting can target your trouble spots, your first step is a consultation at our office. Our CoolSculpting providers at PSC Aesthetics will develop a plan to fit your goals.

Real Patients. Real Results.

Our CoolSculpting patient feels much more confident after her treatments.

Tell us about your journey to the CoolSculpting treatment.

PSC patient: I am a skincare patient and heard about the treatment. I thought it would be good for my problem areas, so I tried it out. I have had several treatments on my tummy and arms, and one on my inner thighs.

Tell us about the procedure.

PSC patient: The treatment is pretty easy. There is a little pinch when it starts, and then it gets really cold. After that, the area becomes numb. During the treatment, I usually relax, sleep, or look at my phone.

How did you feel after the treatment?

PSC patient: I usually feel sore and tender after my treatments. Each area is a little different, though. I also experienced some itching about a week after my inner thigh treatment. I wore compression garments, and that made it better.

When did you notice your results?

PSC patient: You feel tighter right away and know something is happening. A month to six weeks later, I really started to see results. My waistband isn’t as snug now, and nothing is hanging over it. I know my results will continue to improve.

Do you feel different now?

PSC patient: I am definitely more self-assured. I feel better, and it’s a confidence builder. I do CoolSculpting for myself.

Are you happy with your results?

PSC patient: I am very happy and would do it again. It’s a boost for me. It’s a great treatment as you get older and have stubborn fat.

Do you have advice for people considering CoolSculpting Elite?

PSC patient: Do your research. Like anything, there can be side effects. Find someone who has been doing CoolSculpting for a while, is knowledgeable and whom you trust. You want someone to tell you if it’s for you honestly.

Plastic surgery involves many choices; the most important is selecting a surgeon you can trust. Expect exceptional results when you have your procedures performed by plastic surgeons certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, like Dr. Sprole, Dr. Biskup, and Dr. Spaniol. These specially trained doctors have at least six years of surgical training and experience, with a minimum of three years of plastic surgery.

Nousette Jefferson Photography | Instagram: @njeffphoto

Patient was treated with CoolSculpting® Elite on her abdomen. Results may vary.

Shine Awards Honor Inspirational Kansas Women

Thirteen honorees and an inspirational family of women will receive a Shine Award at the annual award luncheon on International Women’s Day, March 8. The Shine Awards celebrate Kansas women who empower others and improve their communities. The luncheon helps raise funds to support Storytime Village’s mission of inspiring a lifelong love of literacy.

This year, the Shine Awards will come to the Wichita Art Museum in partnership with the “Isabelle de Borchgrave: Fashioning Art from Paper” exhibition. Tickets are $75, with proceeds supporting early literacy initiatives in Kansas.

Kim Doze-Lohmann is director of marketing at Martin Pringle Law Firm and provides regional marketing support for over 40 attorneys in three offices across two markets. She is also the vice chair of leadership for the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. Doze-Lohmann has worked to help close the gender pay gap and is also passionate about advocating for the differently-abled.

Carla Eckels is the director of organizational culture at KMUW. She has been an award-winning announcer and news producer for KMUW since 1996, producing and hosting shows like the gospel- and R&B-focused Soulsations. Eckels has received numerous awards for her broadcast journalism, including being inducted into The Kansas African American Museum’s Trailblazers Hall of Fame in November 2020.

Virdena Gilkey is the executive director of the Wichita Bar Association and the Sedgwick County Law Library, which serves over 1,200 legal professionals. With degrees from Friends University and the University of Phoenix, Gilkey was employed with the City of Wichita for over 25 years. She is also a licensed evangelist missionary in the Church of God in Christ.

Teketa Michelle (Berry) Harding is a community development manager for Capitol Federal. With 30 years of experience in the banking industry, she helps improve the community by originating mortgage loans and promoting affordable housing loans, grants, and special lending initiatives in underserved neighborhoods. She has served on several boards and committees and is a member of several service organizations.

Sheila Kinnard retired from teaching drama after 17 years at Mayberry Cultural Fine Arts Middle School, where she also directed and produced scores. She is a self-described artist of words and song; audiences have enjoyed her talents since 1998 in shows and musicals at the Forum Theatre, Music Theatre of Wichita and Roxy’s. In 2022 Kinnard made her professional directorial debut with “Canaan,” a cultural presentation by the Kansas African American Museum.

Mary Beth Jarvis is the executive director of NXTUS, Inc., which helps entrepreneurs grow companies of significance. Her previous roles include president and CEO of Wichita Festivals, Inc. and 15 years at Koch Industries, including serving as vice president of the Public Affairs Division. Jarvis is the current chair of the Greater Wichita YMCA and a director of its YMCA360 digital venture, and she serves on the board of Visit Wichita.

Dr. Chela Love is a family nurse practitioner whose goal is to see her patients healthy while taking minimal medications. She received her bachelor of science degree from Wichita State University and her master of science from Maryville University in St. Louis. Love feels that being a medical provider is a ministry and loves serving those in need.

Roseline Onijala is the founder and owner of Roseline’s International Enterprise, a clothing store specializing in African clothing and artifacts, which she opened in 1996 to share the rich African culture with the community. Onijala dedicates much of her time to supporting organizations like the Kansas African American Museum and community events like Juneteenth.

Amber Sellers was elected to the Lawrence City Commission in 2021, the first African American woman ever to do so. Her professional experience includes early childhood education, community health, field organizing, and systems improvement. Sellers is currently a regulation specialist for the Bureau of Family Health with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, and is also involved with many local and national organizations.

Sue Tirukonda is a financial planner at Cordell Wealth Management and is past president of the Financial Planning Association of Kansas and the Wichita Estate Planning Council. She is also a past president of the Wichita Downtown Rotary and serves on the board of the Wichita Independent Business Association, United Way of the Plains, and HumanKind Ministries.

Dr. Michelle Vann is CEO of Vanntastic Solutions, a coaching and speaking company designed to help women accomplish their goals, and is also the founder of the nonprofit organization Sistahs Can We Talk, which helps fill gaps in health disparities among BIPOC women. Vann retired from Wichita Public Schools after 20 years of service and is a licensed minister of the gospel.

Amy Williams is Spirit AeroSystems’ executive director for global diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) and corporate culture. She serves on the boards of Music Theatre Wichita, Via Christi Foundation, the Wichita Public Library Foundation, and the Wichita Foundation. She is co-chair for the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce’s DEI Advisory Council and community advisor for the Wichita Chapter of the National Association of Asian American Professionals.

Annika Wooton is most known for her historic two-year reign throughout the pandemic as Miss Kansas in 2019 and 2020. She serves as a national program officer with Lead for America and is a primary consultant for Crown the Nation, her business that creates customized coaching plans for young women entering pageants. Wooton recently launched Beyond the Crown, a program that helps competitors find post-pageant purpose.

Shine Awards

March 8, 11 a.m.

· Farha Great Hall at Wichita Art Museum

For tickets, visit storytimevillage.org

& ANSWERS QUESTIONS

Q. Why did you choose colorectal surgery as your profession? (Ew, right?)

A. This is my favorite question to answer! Being a colorectal surgeon is an amazing profession. I have a large colonoscopy practice where I frequently remove large or complex polyps. I’m always happy to be able to prevent and even sometimes cure colon cancer with a colonoscopy. In addition, I’m the only female colorectal surgeon in town so I provide a lot of women (and men) relief in the area of anorectal disease including the treatment of hemorrhoids, fissures and fistulas. Remember, I have the smallest hands in town!

Q. Your husband is a well-known attorney in town — we all want to know who wins most of the debates in your house?

A. I would say we are pretty well matched in the wit department. I daresay my husband has suggested I go to law school for a second career!

Q. Have you had to overcome obstacles being a female surgeon? If so, how have you handled these challenges?

A. Definitely. As a young female, I am commonly misjudged as not “looking like a surgeon.” I handle this by volunteering to prepare the future female surgeons in this community. I started a small group for the female surgery residents to discuss important issues including gender bias, maternity leave, gender pay gap and glass ceilings. This group has brought me so much joy!

Q. What advice would you give to young girls who are interested in becoming a surgeon?

A. When I started medical school, I was in the first class to have an equal number of men and women. Now, more than 50 percent of physicians in the United States are women. Recently, some studies have shown female surgeons have better outcomes, including lower mortality. So go get it, girl! We need more of you!

Q. What is something that most of your colleagues and patients don’t know about you but would find interesting?

A. I am able to use sign language with my deaf patients. I didn’t realize what a difference this made until Covid hit with the increased use of masks. The past several years were difficult for everyone, but especially to those who are deaf or hard-of-hearing, and being able to sign always seems to bring a small amount of relief to deaf patients undergoing procedures.

With

Dr. Lindsay Strader Wichita Surgical Specialists, P.A.

Alex Melugin, Executive Vice President/Partner

CF Organization Helping Families Breathe Easier

Written by Amy Palser

Red Carpet Affair Raising Funds to Support Cystic Fibrosis Patients and their Parents

As the mother of a child with cystic fibrosis, Stacy Wessley of Wichita knows the burden CF can be on families. Daily treatments are time-consuming, medication is expensive and hospital stays are common — all of which take an emotional and financial toll.

“It’s definitely a family disease because the whole family feels the effects,” said Stacy, whose daughter, Natalie, 17, was born with CF. The genetic disorder affects the lungs, pancreas and other organs with an overproduction of thick and sticky mucus. In the lungs, mucus clogs airways and traps germs, leading to infections and other complications, so minimizing contact with germs is a top concern for people with CF.

Natalie is a social, active junior at Maize South High School who is thriving despite her CF diagnosis. But Stacy’s No. 1 job is to keep Natalie healthy with daily medication, breathing treatments, and a vest she wears that vibrates the chest to thin and loosen mucus.

“Self-care, hygiene and germ-prevention are key,” Stacy said. “Natalie’s missed 20 days of school so far this year fighting viruses.” CF patients can also end up in the hospital for one to three weeks at a time for a lung “tune-up,” resulting in missed work or school and major medical bills. Because she knows the hardships so well, Stacy is working to help local families shoulder the burden of CF. Her organization, Creating Tomorrows, raises money to help offset costs for CF patients. “We’ve always been big in the local chapter of CF Foundation and helping to raise money for a cure, but we thought it would be beneficial and amazing to help families with the financial burden.”

After starting Creating Tomorrows in 2018, Stacy organized the group’s first fundraising event in 2019, the Red Carpet Affair, which sold out. Funds raised at the event helped pay for medical bills for a college student with CF, and for a Derby family whose adolescent daughter with CF has been in and out of the hospital frequently. They’ve also hosted two pickleball tournaments to help other local families in need.

“It is an amazing feeling to be able to surprise and bless these families,” Stacy said. “It’s really important to help families with these expenses so their kids can live a longer life and a higher quality of life.”

This year’s Red Carpet Affair is April 14 at Mark Arts. The girls’ night out event features photos on the red carpet, a fashion show and shopping with Wicked Stitch. Guests will enjoy drinks and dinner. Jemelle Holopirek will be the evening’s emcee. Stacy’s youngest daughter, Natalie, will be speaking, and another incredible speaker is in the works. There will also be silent and live auctions.

While the goal of Creating Tomorrows is to provide emotional and financial support to local families dealing with CF, Stacy said she continues to partner with the local chapter of CF Foundation, whose focus is funding scientific research. “We feel there is such a big benefit to coordinating with them to find a cure,” she said. And advancements are happening: Recently the FDA approved a new medication that helps turn off the defective gene that causes CF. Natalie began taking the drug in December 2019 and has experienced improvement in her overall health. “I am so passionate about my daughter and this disease and helping people faced with this disease,” Stacy said. “My goal is to help every single family in Wichita that is affected by cystic fibrosis at some point. This organization will not stop until a cure is found.”

Creating Tomorrows founder Stacy Wessley (left), poses with daughters Britney (center), who heads up fundraising for the group, and Natalie, who has cystic fibrosis and will be speaking at the Red Carpet Affair.

Natalie Wessley, who has cystic fibrosis, will be speaking at the Creating Tomorrows Red Carpet Affair.

PRESENTS A

Red Carpet Affair

Join us at the 2nd annual Creating Tomorrows Red Carpet A air! Enjoy a girls night out with a full dinner, drinks, silent auction, live auction, speakers, shopping, and a fashion show. This fun evening out is a non profit event to help those a ected by Cystic Fibrosis. Grab your girlfriends and buy a table! You won't want to miss this event!!

PLEASE JOIN US

FRIDAY APRIL 14 MARK ARTS

1307 N. ROCK ROAD

WICHITA, KS 67206

5:30 p.m. check-in

6:30 p.m. dinner

7:45 p.m. presentation

LADIES NIGHT OUT

FASHION SHOW WITH WICKED STITCH

FOOD/DRINKS

SILENT & LIVE AUCTION

Scan the QR code to purchase tickets and reserve a table

COME DRESSED TO IMPRESS!!

Spotlight on Seniors’ Mental Health

Written by Eric Litwiller MHA Director of Development and

Communications

Programs for Active and Social Seniors

The desire of seniors to “age in place” rather than relocate to senior care facilities is understandable. However, the chances of those seniors being near family supports are slim, creating a real risk of mental health concerns for the roughly 45,000 seniors who call Wichita home; even more so for those who live alone, as 14 million seniors in the U.S. do.

The cost of elder fraud and scams in the U.S. increased 500 percent to nearly $1.7 billion between 2017 and 2021. And a University of Michigan poll on healthy aging recently reported that the number of seniors who feel isolated more than doubled from the same poll just two years earlier. When seniors feel isolated, they are at significantly higher risk of unhealthy weight loss, depression, substance use, and cognitive decline, among others.

The Mental Health Association (MHA) has long offered programs in our Aging Services division to offset these concerns, including the RSVP program, which keeps seniors engaged by providing them

with opportunities to volunteer. Our most popular program is Senior Companions, which places volunteers 55 and over with isolated seniors to run errands, play games, cook meals and have conversations. The volunteers receive a small stipend, while the seniors remain active and social. It also provides respite services for family members who may have been pressed into care-giving duties without training, and who need some time to care for their own mental health.

Unfortunately, these programs and others like them have been placed in financial limbo in recent years as past sources of funding have been stretched beyond capacity. Without the support of companies like Rhoden Roofing, 3ten Architecture, and Scholfield Honda, they might already be gone.

If your company includes senior care among the philanthropic causes that matter to you, please consider calling our development office at 316.651.1241 to discuss ways to be involved.

Thank you to Angel Culver, Realtor with JP Weigand & Sons, for her gracious support of this column and the MHA mission.

s

EAGLE SCOUTS IN ACTION

Eagle Scout Class of 1978

When résumés land on Devin Hansen’s desk, the candidates whose achievements include “Eagle Scout” always go to the top of the pile. “For somebody to actually accomplish that is really cool,” said the president and owner of Wichita’s Sunflower Travel. “It takes dedication and time — transitioning through the ranks and learning different skills and ultimately applying yourself to earn that rank. It definitely sticks out on a résumé.”

Hansen himself earned the Boy Scouts of America rank of Eagle at age 14. He was one of the lucky members of famed Hutchinson, Kansas, Troop 301, led by Scoutmaster and Dillons Food Stores exec Paul Dillon. The troop operated like a well-run business, with clear goals and expectations, including that boys had to retire by age 15 — whether they achieved Eagle Scout or not — to make room for others waiting to get into the troop.

“We had a lot of fun; we looked forward to it,” Hansen recalled. “We always had really good equipment and when we went to camp we’d build towers and everything, and make some of the other troops a little jealous.”

Hansen said the Scout Law character traits ingrained in him as a Scout are on display daily as he runs his busy travel business: trustworthiness, loyalty, helpfulness and courtesy, to name a few. “It did form who I am today,” he said, “helping people plan trips, being detail-oriented, taking phone calls after hours or working on weekends to help a customer.”

He remains a believer in the Boy Scout mission and serves on the executive board, as well as the Eagle Scout Board of Review. “It’s girls too, now, which is so cool,” he said. “I’ve talked to a number of women who said they were sad they couldn’t be Boy Scouts when they were growing up, because they didn’t get to do a lot of those adventurous things in Girl Scouts.”

Though Scouting may not have the popularity it once had, its purpose and mission are as important as ever — if not more so. Whether teaching survival skills, enjoyment of nature, reaching goals or character development, Scouting lays a solid foundation. “It’s still viable and there’s still a need for it,” Hansen said. “It really does help shape people’s lives.”

Quivira Council and Morgan Stanley are proud to bring you Eagle Scouts in Action, a monthly showcase of community leaders who are banding together to make a difference in our community!

If you are interested in joining Scouting or have an Eagle Scout in Action you think deserves honoring, call us at 316.264.3386.

THE FLINT HILLS GROUP AT MORGAN STANLEY

Devin Hansen

JP WEIGAND HONORS NIGHT Mark Arts

Austin Chippeaux, Haley Fahnestock, Kari Higgins, Carey Kubik, Kristen Luinstra and Amy Feather

Susie Heer, Tammy Hamman, Craig Burns, Lisa Anderson, Stephanie Jakub, and Angel Culver

Lynette Dooling, Kevin and Tracy Dreiling

Tyler Rettegrew, Alexis Hinman, Katie Eastman, Rick Hopper, Brian Hopper, Mark and Roxann Taylor, Melissa Goodwin-Bell and Tracy Brown

Derby Weigand Group

Cathy Sheets, Kendra Kuchta, Barbara Boulanger and Ronda Tackett

Stephanie Jakub, Angel Culver and Lisa Anderson

West Weigand Office team

Fidelity Bank team

Josh Tafolla, Jessica White and Todd Brown

Stephen, Nestor and Johnathan Weigand, Kevin Howell

DeLaine Lacey and the West Weigand Group

Written by Amy Palser

Mom of 4 Wants to Tell Others About Hope for Addiction

Looking back on her lengthy addiction to pain pills, Mandi Sims wishes that early on she would have reached out to her family, a friend, or even to the surgeon who prescribed her painkillers in the first place.

“If I had reached out back when this started, even called the doctor who had done that ankle surgery … If someone would have said, ‘You might be addicted, here’s what to do,’ that might have changed everything, ” she said. “I was the only one in my family that had ever struggled with addiction, and my biggest fear was having to tell my family. I felt like I was completely alone.”

Today Sims is 10 years clean and sober, a successful car saleswoman in Salina, Kansas, and the single mother of four great kids. Addiction is far behind her now, but she is eager to tell her story, hoping she might help someone else. “I would love to go back to that prison I spent years in and speak to those women,” she said, referring to time served on drug-related charges. “People can relate to someone who’s done it, who came out on top.”

Sims did come out on top, but not without trials and tribulations. Though she had repeatedly tried to get clean on her own, it was when she found Dr. Greg Lakin and one of his medication-assisted treatment centers that everything changed. She still visits Center for Change in Wichita every 90 days and remains on a very low dose of Suboxone, a prescription medicine used to treat opioid addiction in adults. “Suboxone was a life-saver for me,” she said. “Dr. Lakin may not realize how much he changed my life. I probably would have ended up back in prison or dead.”

An Addiction Begins

Growing up in Mankato, Kansas, Sims had a great childhood in a family that didn’t struggle with addiction. When she was 24 she underwent reconstructive surgery on her ankle from an old injury sustained in a car accident, and was prescribed narcotics for recovery pain. After three months the doctor took her off pain meds and declared her “good to go.” But she didn’t realize the extreme illness that followed was because of addiction withdrawal.

Her boyfriend at the time had some leftover pain pills from a dental procedure and gave her one. “I felt phenomenal,” she recalled. “I realized, oh my gosh, as long as I’m taking these I feel great! That’s where my addiction started.”

For seven years she crafted reasons to get more painkillers from doctors. When she would run out of pills or try to get clean, she was debilitatingly sick for weeks at a time, motivating her to get more narcotics. “The fear of getting sick is what kept me addicted,” she said.

At age 31 and pregnant, Sims tried to break into the pharmacy where her mom worked, got caught and went to prison. While the two-year sentence seemed grim, it forced her into sobriety and saved her life and that of her son, who was born in prison nonaddicted and went to live with Sims’s mom. “When I got out I hit the ground running. Within a year I had a job, a house, a car and full custody of my three kids. Things were great,” she said.

But four years later when she underwent another surgery and was prescribed narcotics, she once again became addicted. Pregnant with her fourth child and a year into a renewed addiction, Sims was referred to Dr. Lakin who practiced at Valley Hope at that time. Bound and determined to get clean, and with only a week until her daughter was to have a tonsillectomy, Sims entered the program. “I was there seven days and that was 10 years ago,” she said.

She continued to see Dr. Lakin throughout her pregnancy, and after the birth of her daughter headed straight to his office. “I have a picture of him holding her the day we got out of the hospital, with her curly red hair,” she said. “It’s not going to be a perfect road; you’ll have struggles, but if you do it sober you’ll make it through. But people can’t be afraid to ask for help. There is a better way.”

Mandi Sims

From Social Media to Your Closet

Written by Lauren “L” Mercado

How TikTok Is Changing the Way We Find Trends

To talk about social media and fashion, you have to first address the need for self-expression because that is where it all begins. Underneath the addicting endless scroll and the insatiable need to post, the desire to selfexpress or consume is the force behind social media.

We want to be seen and we also don’t want to miss out on what is trending. Which at the core is no different from how the fashion industry has worked for so many years. For decades, trends have trickled down, but the difference now is that, many times, “regular” people on social media perch at the top of the fashion pyramid — not the fashion houses. Not to mention, Pinterest’s effect on how we consume fashion trends and inspiration.

A well-defined personal style can convey confidence, creativity and individuality — which are pretty beneficial to a social media presence. Social media creators are very familiar with these qualities, and they’ve used their platforms to show off their fashion sense. People are watching, even the higher-end fashion houses.

TikTok has had a significant impact on the fashion industry by creating new trends and popularizing existing ones. The app provides a platform for creators to showcase their personal style and provides a source of inspiration for others. This has given rise to many new fashion trends, from the way people style their outfits to the type of clothing and accessories they wear. We’re no longer only looking at the major runway shows to find out what’s in or out.

The rise of social-media-first fashion trends has created a multitude of micro-trends that can be a little overwhelming. To help, I’ve compiled a few of the biggest trends emerging from creators for spring.

Versatile Lime Green – The hue of the season is lime green! This loud color will be seen in everything from gowns to shoes. If you’re feeling edgy, a monochromatic lime-green look will be fashion-forward this season and I suggest that you go for it! Play with different tones and textures to make a statement. You could also opt for a small pop of lime green, like an accessory, in the hue.

Slim Maxi Skirt – Maxi skirts have been a spring go-to for so many years now that they are almost cliche for the season. The updated style for 2023? A slim silhouette. So yes, skinny jeans are out, but skinny skirts are in. The sleekness of the slim maxi skirt is a nod to ’90s neominimalism. When you style this trend, opt for platforms or higher heels to give you even more length, and pair with either a tighter-fitting top or cropped sweater. (This also works well with wide-legged jeans.)

Under the Sea – The “mermaid vibes” trend that’s already been adopted by TikTok influencers is making its way into our closets this year in the form of sequins, sheer fabrics and pastel hues (and sometimes all at once!) The look is ultra-feminine and show-stopping.

Rosettes Are Back – From Harry Styles to your favorite fashion influencer, rosettes have already been popping up on social media, and they’re not going anywhere this season. Look for choker necklaces and pins, and add feminine flair by styling rosettes with your new spring aesthetic.

Be sure to tag @styleby.elle and @splurgeict if you try any of these trends!

Lauren “L” Mercado is a stylist and owner of Social Style. Follow her on Instagram at @styleby.elle

THE LBD, ETC.

316.440.0772

Location – Free State Flora

Photography - Darrin Hackney Photography

Models - Models and Images

Styling - Amy Palser

Hair and Makeup - Crave Beauty Academy

Hair - Allison M, Alyssa R, Nakia C

Makeup - Keila C, Kolsee D, Carmen S

Multi-Million Dollar Producers: Lisa Anderson, Sylvia Bartel, Sherrie Bieberle, Jenney Blevins, Jen Brown, Phil Brumbaugh, The Carlson Connection, Carol Carpenter, Lisa Carter, Wendy Goertzen, Heather Golden, Julie Gooch, Kali Graber, Kellye Harp, Chad Harris, Liz Hauserman, Pam Hesse, Kari Higgins Team, Tori Hiebert, Hinman Homes, Debbie, Holmes, Rick Hopper Sara Linnebur, Mike Loveland, Patsy Lovett, Krista Lowry, Leisa Lowry, Amanda Maxwell, Dee McCallum, Matthew McClure, Joseph Myers & Associates, Arlan Newell, Lori Newfer, Annie Ronda Tackett, Bradley Tidemann, Grant Tidemann, Becky Turner, Alissa Unruh, The Vadnais Home Team, Whitney Vliet Ward, Elizabeth Voegeli, Tiffany Voran, Kylan Ward, Kelly Watkins, Million

Producers: Taffy Axline, Justin Bell, Kay Donham, Randy Flickinger, Arlene Fowler, Vanessa Garcia, Gina Greenlee, Bonnie Sue Hultgren, Ann Klein, Brittany Marie, Rebecca

2132 N Rock Road #104 Wichita, Kansas

Q. Fitness seems to be a passion of yours. Tell me about why you love fitness so much.

A. Growing up, I was not an active or healthy child. I preferred TV and popcorn over neighborhood sports. Upon achieving my BA and beginning my MBA journey, I obtained employment in a corporate position. I found myself in a sedentary lifestyle working at a desk all day and spending my evenings in class or studying. At age 25 I started feeling sluggish and fatigued; I also started putting on weight, so I decided to quit contributing to the electric bills at my local gym and begin using the membership I was paying for. The first months were a struggle, but I desperately wanted to feel better so went back day after day and tried new classes. I slowly started seeing results and this encouraged me to also learn more about good nutrition. Over the years I have created a lifestyle involving intentional body movement and nutrition that I now love. I am forever grateful for this journey!

Q. What inspired you to bring Bodybar Pilates to Wichita?

A. I believe intentional body movement is medicine. A quote I love from Joseph Pilates is, “Change happens through movement and movement heals.” Early in my fitness endeavors I participated in bikini competitions. I was willing to do anything and everything to have a certain aesthetic appearance, but what I quickly realized is lasting results only come with intentional movement, which is the foundation of Pilates. Wichita needed an upbeat Pilates environment teaching classical Pilates in a modern fashion to provide the best transformational results. After traveling to Bodybar corporate in Dallas and experiencing several class types firsthand, I knew our community would benefit from these workouts.

Q. How is Pilates different from other forms of exercise?

A. Pilates is different because of the focus of the core throughout every movement. Joseph Pilates believed all movement stemmed from the “powerhouse” (aka the core) and if we have a strong powerhouse, all movement will happen freely.

Kalene Hoffmann Owner

Bodybar Pilates East Wichita

Pilates is different because every exercise is designed to use strength, stamina, stretch, and stability. One of the biggest focuses in Pilates is good form. Maintaining excellent form is part of what makes Pilates so beneficial for everyone, regardless of your age, gender, abilities or fitness level. The equipment is designed to support you and challenge you in achieving the best form possible.

Q. Can you talk about the class types you offer?

A. At Bodybar Pilates we offer high intensity, low impact classes for all fitness levels. We are an inclusive boutique Pilates studio that you will love. Our class formats are designed to meet you at your fitness level. We have plenty of class options to help you achieve your individual goals.

Reformer: Our house favorite! Our Reformer class is our signature format and is the foundation for our Bodybar workout. This fast-paced class is filled with cardio, contemporary movements and modern techniques. Classic: This is the perfect format to build your comfort level on the Reformer! Take things slow and develop a deeper understanding of the Pilates repertoire and equipment. Great for beginners looking to work their way up the Bodybar method.

Power Tower: While still toning and strengthening, Power Tower is a slower-paced class incorporating active stretching and toning. Recommended for clients with ailments or clients that need a less intense class.

Mixed Equipment: This fast-paced class is based on our signature Reformer method with the addition of Jump Board for a cardio burst and Chair for added strength. This advanced class will help you build lean muscle and burn calories!

“You will feel better in ten sessions, look better in twenty sessions, and have a completely new body in thirty sessions.”

—Joseph Pilates

4

Locations Across Kansas Dodge • Emporia East & West Wichita

Spread the Sparkle!

Corned Beef, Bangers and Mash, Oh My!

Written by Julie Underwood Burton

Wichita’s Picks for a Smashing Irish Feast

If you plan to step out and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day and are seeking an authentic Irish dish typically not found on menus, here are three notable Wichita stops serving up something very Irish for your tastebuds.

Mort’s Martini and Cigar Bar

923 E. 1st Street

First stop is Mort’s Martini and Cigar Bar, where one of the most familiar faces at Mort’s, longtime bar manager Emma Russell, will be making her “legendary” corned beef and cabbage stew. Emma has been personally making the stew for Mort’s customers on St. Patrick’s Day for at least 15 years. It’s a favorite and according to Emma, “I have to make it. I have no choice. If I did not make it, I would get in big trouble and my staff requires it too.” In the Irish spirit, Mort’s also makes all their drinks green all day long and offers the typical Irish whiskeys, brews and other celebratory drink specials. Mort’s will be open from noon to 1 a.m. March 17 with live bands starting at 2 p.m.

Artichoke Sandwichbar

811 N. Broadway

The Artichoke Sandwichbar will be starting the party early, joining Wichita’s Fake Patty’s Day celebration held one week earlier on Friday, March 11 in conjunction with the popular Delano downtown parade, recently renamed the Paddy Day Parade. Artichoke’s featured Irish dishes will include their Mulligan stew, bangers and mash, and their Reuben sandwich, a customer favorite on the menu year-round. Co-owner Uche Onwugbufor will tell you what makes those two specially prepared Irish entrées undoubtedly stand out: their own homemade onion gravy, truly an untold family secret recipe. Their celebration continues with the Artichoke’s Irish Weekend March 17-18.

Walt’s East Wichita

7732 E. Central

At Walt’s East Wichita, a popular establishment with a reputation for being your neighborhood “Cheers” pub, they’ve been serving scratch hamburgers, homestyle meals and a variety of other dishes since 1947. Every week their menu includes daily specials and — just for St. Patrick’s Day — their daily special will include what they also call their “legendary” corned beef and cabbage special along with a side of Irish bread for $14.99. In honor of the Irish, Walt’s is also offering $5 16 oz. pint drafts of Warbeard, a popular Irish red ale brewed by Walnut Brewing Company in El Dorado. Walt’s East is open daily 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.

‘Magical’ Event Celebrates 20 Years of Helping Wichita Moms and Babies

Written by Amy Palser

The Treehouse Trio: Giving Necessities, Education and Love

The Treehouse is for moms of all kinds.

Moms who are lacking basic necessities.

Moms who need infant care and parenting skills.

Teenage moms who just learned they are expecting.

Forty-something pregnant moms who thought their childbearing days were behind them.

Moms who don’t have a supportive partner.

Moms who just need a little extra love and care.

Located in the heart of Wichita near Douglas and Volutsia, The Treehouse has been helping expecting moms and those with infants for over 20 years, making sure that no woman walks through the maternal season of her life alone. The nonprofit organization, started by the Wichita Orthodox Christian Church community, said the ICT community at large has been a big part of why they’ve been able to carry on the mission so faithfully for two decades. Without grants and financial support from churches and organizations such as American AgCredit, Lattner Family Foundation, Spirit, Cargill and Junior League of Wichita, The Treehouse wouldn’t be able to offer their services and programs free of charge to local moms and families.

“We partner with a lot of different community organizations — everyone from the K-State Research and Extension Office offering classes on food and nutrition, to the Child Advocacy Center of Kansas and Wichita Family Crisis Center, to Intrust Bank offering practical financial information through the Money Smarts program,” said Karey Padding of Wichita, the group’s executive director. “We also receive support from many local churches that volunteer their time and talents. We really try to pull from the community, because it helps them see who we are and what we do. But it also gets people from the community into our building and shows our Treehouse moms that people care and want to help them.”

Wichita moms who are expecting or have a newborn receive education, guidance and parenting support, based on an Earn While You Learn design. As moms take classes on a multitude of topics such as pregnancy health, positive parenting, life skills and spiritual growth, they can earn necessities like diapers, wipes, formula, baby bucks to shop at the onsite thrift store, and even household cleaning supplies. Daily classes or “mommy meetings” are offered in person, in English and Spanish, with free childcare available in the onsite playroom for children 1–5 years of age.

Moms can also access over 150-plus videos through a videostreaming service called BrightCourse. “This is a great way for moms to view a variety of information if they can’t make it to class or have work obligations, but still earn those much-needed

incentives,” Padding said. Court-approved parenting classes, such as Strengthening Families or Better Brains for Babies, are also available at The Treehouse, free of charge.

“We receive referrals from crisis pregnancy centers, the hospitals and clinics, schools, and other organizations,” Padding said. “But people also find us on social media, and moms bring other moms in.”

Padding’s favorite testimonials are The Treehouse moms who received help from the organization and are now volunteering — and some even helping to lead classes. “I’ve been really impressed with the moms who have participated in our services, stepping up and volunteering now. We have several moms who started out as Treehouse moms but now truly love to volunteer, help out in the thrift store or sorting room, and even interpret for us. They began by receiving help but have grown into being able to offer help to someone else.”

Karey Padding

Photo:

Wow Moments

at throwback prices!

Remember when life was simpler? No pesky screens, no technology Your little rug rats will flip their lids over how close they can get to nifty critters, like giraffes and otters. Put away those darned gadgets, pick up some carrots for the hippos, and head to coolsville!

CHRIS AND CARLISLE’S GOING AWAY PARTY The Do Residence

Angel and Angelica Gomez, Erika and Peter Salmeron

Peter Najera, Carlisle Williams, Chris Gomez and Jan Najera

Michelle Naftzger, Trish and Bruce Van Osdel, Caesar Naftzger

Robin and Coleen Jennison, Becky and Patrick Tuttle

Chris Gomez, Sonia Greteman, Carlisle Williams, Johnathan Weigand and Jody Klein

Brian Le, Jeren Francois and Ethan Wagoner

Pat Do, Helen Galloway and Peter Salmeron

Terry and Jody Klein, Susan and Dustin DeVaughn

JR and Linda Fox, Jennifer and Oscar Morales

Madeline Janzen, Dr. Pat Do and Jacob Archer

Carlisle “BJ” Williams and Christopher “Angel” Gomez

Chad Cowan, Wynn Hukle, Stephanie and Ted Troth, Buffy Dodson and Kathy Galichia

BREAKING ALL THE RULES

Best Body Shop

Clay Hoberecht, owner of Best Body Shop in Wichita, KS, is here to break the mold of shady auto body shops. Between insurance adjusters, agents and body shops that are in the pocket of big insurance companies, Hoberecht knows the general perception of the auto-repair and collision business is poor, and that any experience with this industry leaves the typical client feeling frazzled, taken advantage of, and stressed.

Hoberecht is determined to be the difference in this collision repair business. He explains: “I come from a state of mind that if you can’t keep your doors open based on customers alone, you shouldn’t have your doors open in the first place. Far too many shops are open simply because of referrals from insurance companies, and not because individuals choose to come to them.”

Of course, Hoberecht’s mindset has changed drastically since he opened his shop in 2014. Originally, a body shop called C. Hoberecht for Customs, he initially only dabbled in collision repair and mostly worked on customization for hot rods. However, when he realized how saturated the market was with disreputable body shops, he quickly changed the focus of his own business to address the serious need for a body shop that is primarily an advocate for the client.

be done following a crash. He found that there are laws to protect consumers, which allows them to use a body shop of their choosing, even when their insurance companies make it seem as though they have no other choice.

As evidence of Hoberecht’s and Best Body Shop’s impact on customers, Kevin O’Malia, self-described “born-again Best Body Shop believer,” has provided a quote about his recent highly positive experience working with Hoberecht:

“The first time I went to Best Body Shop was on a lark, as his shop was close to where we live. I had always gone to a chain body shop, and I had no allegiance to any of them as I had never had a good experience. I took my son’s car out, and after conversing with Hoberecht, I said to my son ‘This could either be the worst experience or the best experience,’ and expecting the worst, it was the best. His approach is fundamentally different from any shop I had interacted with, and he obviously makes an effort. It was the first time working with a body shop that I felt was actually on my side, almost like I had a firewall between myself and the insurance company. They were extremely transparent, and I knew with certainty that they were using the best parts while also making the cars look fantastic. When you go to Best Body Shop just once, you’ll be sold for life.”

Visit bestbodyshopinwichita.com for shop information, or be sure to follow them on Facebook, @bestbodyshop, which features educational and interactive behind the scenes videos and posts.

He explains, “I found out how much of an abyss this market is, and set out to take on and restore the collision repair business to become something that consumers deserve.” His family background and upbringing greatly contributed to this, as his father, who is a pastor, raised him to have integrity in everything he does, and he strives to set the same example for his family.

In changing the focus of his business to be ‘client-centered,’ Hoberecht knew he had to educate himself on the rights of the consumer. Hoberecht’s platform changed to one in which insurance companies have no space to tell their customers where to have their repairs done or even what work is to

Written by Alexis Evans

“They were extremely transparent, and I knew with certainty that they were using the best parts while also making the cars look fantastic.” — Kevin O’Malia

WICHITA STATE BASEBALL FIRST PITCH BANQUET Charles Koch Arena

Robert Granz, Brianna Utecht, Lynn and Kevin Hammer, Teresa and Rick Favors, Carolyn Stewart

Jeremiah and Stacie Williamson, Brian Preston, Kristin and Nate Robertson, Elizabeth King, Scott Mark and Blake Blasi

Steve Ruud, Peggy Williams, Gene and Jana Stephenson

Bailey Andrade, Alex, Erin, Dylan and Michael Birge

Alex Johnson, Nate Robertson, WSU President Rick Muma and Rick Cage

Kristina and Jim Snead, Hogan Shelby, Ryan and Tammy Henry, Charlie, Susan and Thomas Rogan with WuShock

Wichita State Baseball Coach Loren Hibbs with Lisa, Erin and Lanie Hibbs

Brittanie Shepherd, Andrew, Carolyn and Thomas Stewart, Mike Sirianni

Gary, Garrett and Janet Pennington

2023 Wichita State Baseball team

Ashley and Connor Behrens, Chuck Ingram, Colton Vercoe, Gage Williams, Jordan Rogers, Connor Holden, Hope Eckley

Enchanted Gala

Launching New Year Of Empowering Women

The Junior League of Wichita is happy to announce the return of the Enchanted Gala! This second annual event will be a fabulous evening dedicated to celebrating the impact that the Junior League of Wichita has on the Wichita community.

The Junior League of Wichita (JLW), part of the larger Association of Junior Leagues International, is a women-led organization committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Junior League members, reflecting a wide range of backgrounds, interests and professional pursuits, work together to identify unmet needs, forge effective coalitions and serve as catalysts for lasting community change.

On April 5, 2022, The Junior League of Wichita voted to approve the new issue area as follows: Empowering Women to be Safe, Smart and Successful.

The first stage is empowering women to be safe. Safety is a central human right everyone is entitled to, and our focus is ensuring the safety of women. Having their most basic safety needs met lays a solid foundation for women to be smart and successful in other areas of life.

The second stage is empowering women to be smart. The three major factors are healthy relationships, financial literacy and education. While education, training and hard work affect career and professional success, healthy relationships have proven to have great influence on individual success. Junior League of Wichita can help both our members and women in the community by offering resources and training in this area.

The third and final stage is empowering women to be successful. There are many opportunities to partner with our community to help women become successful through mentorship, leadership programs, and salary negotiation training. We have a wealth of knowledge within JLW and can tap into it to help all women in our community create more successful lives.

Help us help our Wichita community! Tickets to this fundraising gala are now available to purchase for $125, with many sponsorship opportunities available as well. Your ticket includes both a silent and live auction, open bar and a plated dinner, catered by Georges French Bistro. The silent auction will be available to both in-person and online bidders, while the live auction will be on site. Bid on incredible auction items while enjoying an evening of reminiscing, celebration and fundraising for the Junior League of Wichita. We will be highlighting key moments in the history of the Junior League of Wichita, along with the women who have made those moments possible.

Please visit enchantedgala.cbo.io for more information and to purchase tickets or sponsorships!

Enchanted:

A Junior League of Wichita Gala

March 24, 2023

6–9 p.m. Mark Arts

1307 N. Rock Rd. Wichita, KS 67206

enchantedgala.cbo.io

"Stephanie has sold a house for us and helped us find a new one on pretty short notice! She is VERY knowledgeable as both a sellers and buyers agent. We felt as if all we needed to do was sign the papers She has resources and referrals for anything you might need done with your property and is always a phone call away. She answers her phone! Oh, and at year end she sends your closing paperwork you’ll need for taxes! She is the best!"

-Bridget & John Turner

Danny Chad Proudly Serving All of Kansas Since 1991

Couple Raises The Roof on Home Solutions

Written by Julie Hying

Announcing Harmony Home Concepts

Phil and Shelley Davis are best known for their three companies, Slide Out Shelf Solutions, Creative Closet Concepts and The Best Home Guys. Now they’re announcing a consolidation and an exciting new path forward for the company.

What inspired you to integrate your three brands into Harmony Home Concepts?

We wanted to make it easier for those who are searching for the solutions we offer. This new brand identity reflects our commitment to helping our customers create a harmonious and organized home, where everything has its place and every space is optimized for maximum functionality. By combining the expertise and experience of all three companies, we are able to offer a complete and comprehensive solution to our customers’ home storage and organization needs, making their lives easier, more efficient and more enjoyable. Many times our clients find out we offer more services after we’ve completed a project in their home. Consolidating our three brands means they now have access to multiple solutions from the same trusted source.

How will this new approach impact customers?

Formerly our three companies offered individual and distinct services, but by merging and rebranding as Harmony Home Concepts, we are able to offer a wider range of innovative home storage solutions — including slide out shelves, closet systems, garage storage solutions, and professional handyman services — under one unified brand. Same quality of service, but easier for our clients to know how we can help.

When will the transition to Harmony Home Concepts take place?

It’s already begun! We will officially launch the new brand publicly at the Home Show coming up in March, but you can already access everything at harmonyhomeconcepts.com.

What do your clients love about your service?

• We are a local, Wichita, family owned and operated company, not a franchise.

• Clients can trust that we will take care of their home like it was our own — we protect floors, countertops and appliances in the areas where our team is working.

• Our Extraordinary Service Promise means we provide quality service and products with a lifetime guarantee.

• Our designs make storage spaces easier to organize and access, increasing function and reducing daily stress. We even put together a guide about relieving stress that can be downloaded at hhcgift.com.

• Clients’ lives becomes easier with the transformation of their storage spaces.

• We collaborate with them to design custom solutions specific to their individual needs.

• All our products come with a lifetime guarantee.

Harmony Home Concepts is a one-stop shop for home improvement needs, with a range of innovative storage solutions and professional handyman services. We design custom closet and garage systems, slide out shelves and other storage solutions tailored for each specific need and lifestyle, saving time and streamlining day-to-day life.

What sets Harmony Home Concepts apart?

Our team has over 17 years of experience in the industry with a focus on exceptional customer service. We work directly with clients to create customized solutions to fit a specific need. We are licensed, bonded and insured and all our craftsmen are our employees. Our wide range of products and services make us a comprehensive solution for home storage and accessibility needs. Our goal is to help clients create a harmonious and organized home that suits their lifestyle. In short, Harmony Home Concepts brings together exceptional service, quality products from a trusted and established local company, and solutions that make every day easier.

Harmony Home Concepts owners Phil and Shelley Davis

Project Spotlight

Primary Bath Remodel

By Nahid Holmes | Design Source Interiors

3 - Step Design Process:

1. We visit your home, look, take pictures, and measure.

2. We meet with you in store to develop a plan together.

3. We execute the plan.