SPLURGE!316 March 2025

Raising the Curtain on Our Central Cast Behind the Scenes

Kim Azaria, Account Executive

How long have you been with SPLURGE!

I’ve been an AE since June of 2017, helping clients get their message out to new audiences in the pages of the magazine. My favorite thing about the job is meeting new people and helping them grow their businesses. I love to see people succeed.

Where is your happy place?

My dad was a professional bass fisherman, and Table Rock Lake is mine and my family’s favorite place to be! I have a second home there, and love boating, fishing, taking long walks in nature and seeing all of God’s amazing creations.

What gets you through the day?

I’m a music lover, so within five minutes of waking up every morning my music app is tuned to ’70s, ’80s, rock, classic rock and some country.

Do you have any hobbies?

I make baseball hats and bandanas with Swarovski crystals.

Are you a world traveler or staycation type?

I’ve been to Israel and the Dead Sea, and it was wonderful. Scuba diving with dolphins was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But I also have a love for the Keeper of the Plains, a local icon.

If you could take a dream vacation, where would it be?

Fiji, the Maldives, Bora Bora, Italy or Greece are on the top of the list. What’s something most people don’t know about you?

I was a hairdresser in New York City and worked at Toni & Guy on Madison Avenue.

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 Jessica Provines, Randy Yeisley

Fashion Photography Darrin Hackney

Local Faces Photography Michael Carroll Jr.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

10

Xavier Bell: Setting the Standard Senior guard Xavier Bell is having a standout season. Shocker coach Paul Mills counts on Bell’s hard work and “high care factor” to inspire the other players and staff.

22

When TBI Masquerades as Depression

Korin Mayer struggled with mysterious mental symptoms for the better part of a year. Finally, she was diagnosed with a brain injury from a car accident eight months earlier.

52

Irish Fare with American Flair

In the month honoring St. Patrick, try these contemporary twists on classic Irish dishes such as Guinness Brown Bread, Irish Apple Cake and a complete Boxty Brunch.

Xavier Bell: Setting the Standard

Photos provided by: Wichita State University

60 The Green Machine Returns

Gather your green togs to celebrate St. Paddy’s Day with a parade, food trucks, 5K run, bar crawl and a Shamrock Scramble. Not all in the same place of course! All the details here.

66 Spring Planting Prep

For gardeners eager to sink their hands in the soil, this is the month for pruning, clearing, prepping, designing and planting. And, in Kansas, the allimportant frost watch.

Flint Hills National Residences is a carefully planned community wrapping around the Tom Fazio designed and nationally recognized Flint Hills National Golf Club. Home sites from 1/3 acre to more than 1 acre combine with generous common areas to create the perfect environment for every phase of life. Few places rival the natural beauty of this 640-acre private retreat. Club Estate home sites beginning at $85,000 and Park Estate home sites beginning at $200,000.

Down Payment Assistance

Available March 3rd, 2025. The Homeownership Set-Aside Program provides support to First-time Homebuyers for home purchases in Kansas, up to $15,000 Grant for down payment and closing costs assistance.

To qualify, participants:

• Must be a first-time homebuyer (have not owned a home within 3 years)

• May not own or be an investor of another residence

• Must meet income eligibility requirements (please call for income limit)

• Must complete an online Home Buyers Education Course

• Must agree to retain the home for at least 5 years

• Reservations will be accepted on a first come, first-serve basis

Xavier Bell: Setting the Standard

Written by Paige Feikert

Top Court Performer Goes All Out in Final Shocker Season

Xavier Bell is getting his daily vitamins, but not the ones you’d find at the pharmacy. He’s arriving to the gym before practice and staying after, putting up extra shots, getting in extra lifts — not to mention studying to complete his master’s degree — and it’s paying off.

“Daily vitamins is what they’re called, trying to do something every day, whether it’s work out, a lift, a stretch, just to give back to the game so hopefully it sees that — and I think the basketball gods are real, so hopefully they see that and they see you putting in so much time and effort; they’ll give something back to you,” Bell said.

The senior guard at Wichita State University is putting up career high numbers this season, and has become a leader for the Shockers, setting a high standard of work ethic and character, shaping the culture of the team for years to come.

“It’s been a lot of confidence, I bank a lot of the stuff that I’m able to do now on my faith and really my resiliency to keep showing up every day,” Bell said. “But at the same time, it’s not all on me, I’m not the only one showing up in the gym, I’ve got a bunch of GAs coming in early morning, staying after practice, I’ve got guys going through film, I’ve got family members who are reaching out to me, it takes a whole village for somebody to start to make the right stride, but at the same time it doesn’t happen overnight.”

Bell has a strong tie to the city and the university. The senior is originally from the Wichita area — playing both football and basketball at Andover Central High School and earning top honors as a high school basketball player, including a McDonald’s All-American nomination. He was named Mr. Basketball by the Kansas Basketball Coaches Association and led the Jaguars to a state title his junior year.

But his ties to WSU run even deeper — his father, Wayne Bell, a native of St. Louis, played football at WSU. It’s what brought him to Wichita years ago, but the elder Bell’s time as a Shocker student-athlete stopped short when the football program was cut after his sophomore season. Now, he’s once again a regular on campus, attending every game in support of his son.

“It’s been a real blessing to see Xavier come through and be able to do all of those things that I would loved to have done,” Wayne Bell said. “He’s been able to flourish, and he’s doing really well right here in Wichita. It’s been wonderful, it’s definitely full circle.”

A Shocker Namesake

At the time Wayne Bell attended Wichita State University, legends like Antoine Carr, Aubrey Sherrod and Xavier McDaniel played basketball for the Shockers. All three would go on to play professional basketball. Wayne Bell and McDaniel became friends, and Wayne went on to name his son, Xavier, after the Shocker legend.

“It wasn’t so much that I named him after Xavier [McDaniel] because of the relationship, it was because I really loved his name,” Wayne Bell said. “I thought it was cool that everyone called him ‘X-Man’ and that name was one of my favorites. It’s cool to see Xavier [Bell] embracing that.”

Xavier Bell is now a key player for the Shockers, both on the court and off, embodying his namesake who held a similar role in the mid 1980s. Bell has watched some of the most successful Shocker teams in action as he was growing up in Wichita, and he understands the tradition of Wichita State basketball.

“Being around when they went to the Final Four, seeing that, experiencing that — I just hold that time and remember what it can be like when we’re winning. It’s something I try and work toward every single day,” Bell said.

Bell’s work in the gym has led him to a standout season — averaging more than 14 points per game, making more than 36 percent from three-point range and more than 86 percent behind the free-throw line — improvements of 7 and 13 percent respectively from last season. Coach Paul Mills attributes these strides to Bell’s extra work and dedication.

“You can get 3 to 5 percent better, and if you see guys doing that they probably had to put in a ton of time in order to do that — but you don’t see double digit jumps in one year,” Mills said. “It’s a tribute to him; he wants to leave this place better than he found it.”

‘If you keep showing up with the right attitude, right intentions, it will all play out the way it should.’

– Xavier Bell

Xavier Bell leads the Shockers this season with an average 14.5 points per game after double-digit improvements in three-point field goal percentage and free-throw shooting from last season.

That’s the legacy Bell will leave at Wichita State — selflessness, hard work, dedication and, as Coach Mills calls it, a high care factor.

“These players will hear about Xavier Bell for a while — his approach. I don’t know that he’s ever missed a single practice. I think he’s shown up, he’s been very vocal,” Mills said. “I’ve always been able to do that in previous programs — put up a player that players are very aware of, that set the standard — and he’s done that for us as a staff, and we are very appreciative of his investment.”

The hard work, the daily vitamins as Bell calls them, they are coming despite the team’s struggles. Wichita State men’s basketball has struggled to reach .500 over Bell’s time on the team. They’ve gone through coaching staff changes and player transfers, but Bell understands that the work he’s putting in now will set the foundation for future greatness.

“At the end of the day, it’s not always pretty going through these transitional years, but it can’t be like this forever,” Bell said. “If you keep showing up with the right attitude, right intentions, it will all play out the way it should.”

For Wayne and the rest of Bell’s family, the end of his college career has been bittersweet.

“I just know that our family, all of Xavier’s siblings, everyone is happy and so proud of him, and we’re looking forward to senior day at WSU. I know it will be a sad moment, but we’re really proud of him,” Wayne Bell said.

Not only is Bell a top performer on the court, but the senior recently made the fall Athletic Director’s Honor Roll with a 4.0 GPA, and was named to the American Athletic Conference AllAcademic team in both his sophomore and junior seasons. Bell expects to graduate in the fall with his master’s degree in sports management, after already completing his bachelor’s degree in business management. He hopes to continue his basketball career and eventually pursue a sports management career in operations, coaching or the front office of a professional sports league or team.

WSU men’s basketball senior game is March 9 against Tulsa. The team will travel to Fort Worth, Texas, for the American Athletic Conference Championship March 12–16.

Representing the city and the Shockers is important to Bell, who grew up watching some of the most successful Shocker teams in recent years.

Growing With the Women’s B-Ball Program

Family Support System Spurs Ella Anciaux to Leadership, Dedication, Consistency

For the last four years, section 104 has been a source of inspiration for Wichita State’s Ella Anciaux. Whether she was starting games or getting limited minutes, the same seats in section 104 were taken.

“Being able to look across from the bench and see my family in section 104 every single game without fail, and going to see them after the game has really carried me through,” Anciaux said. “The level of pride and support that they have in me has instilled that, no matter what was happening, they were going to be there no matter what.”

Anciaux’s path in collegiate basketball has been hard-fought. The senior center earned looks from top programs as a high school basketball standout at Kapaun Mount Carmel, where she became the number three prospect in the state of Kansas according to the “World Exposure Report.”

She earned some minutes during her freshman and sophomore years at WSU, but it wasn’t until late in her junior year that she cemented a more regular spot in the starting lineup. Through it all, Anciaux’s hard work and support system carried her.

‘Big Sister Energy’

Anciaux is the oldest of six children — a big sister in her family and on her team. As a senior who has played her entire collegiate career at Wichita State, Anciaux is embodying those big sister traits on the team — being a voice in the locker room, providing advice for her teammates, offering rides or help in other ways off the court.

“I think growing up being the oldest of six kids, the big sister energy is kind of naturally within me, it’s part of my character,” Anciaux said. “I feel like that’s how you build a culture on a team is by creating that family atmosphere where people are willing to help each other and sacrifice for each other.”

Coach Terry Nooner agrees and calls Anciaux a leader on the team and a testament to hard work: “Consistently we’re going to get the same attitude, we’re going to get her being smart, she’s going to be in the right spots all the time on the court and she’s going to take accountability for making mistakes. I think as a coach you really like to have somebody out there who you can trust and you know is going to be consistent every day,” Nooner said.

Anciaux embodies her big sister role in other ways, too. The team has played through three losing seasons out of the four years she has been at WSU. Through coaching staff changes and player transfers, she’s remained committed to the Shockers. Anciaux hopes the work she is putting in now with her teammates will be reflected in the future.

“I have no problem being a part of the foundation and being part of the growth of this program, because I know that this program can be very successful as we have been in the past,” Anciaux said. “I don’t think you’ll get very far in life if you give up the first time you reach something that is a challenge.”

‘Consistently we’re going to get the same attitude, we’re going to get her being smart, she’s going to be in the right spots on the court.’ — Coach Terry Nooner

Those big sister moments are carrying through and being recognized by even some of her youngest supporters.

“My little sisters want to wear number 13 on their basketball teams, and that means the world to me because they look up to me,” Anciaux said.

Anciaux is studying exercise science with a certificate in fitness and weight lifting, and is expecting to graduate this spring. In the fall, Anciaux plans on attending Cleveland University in Overland Park to work toward her Doctor of Chiropractic degree.

WSU women’s basketball senior day is March 4 against Tulsa. The team will travel to Dallas for the AAC Tournament March 8–12.

Ella Anciaux is a senior with the Shockers, playing all four years at WSU, and has taken on a leadership role on the team.

Ella credits her “big sister energy” to growing up as the oldest of six children. Here she is with her family at Koch Arena — parents Todd and Kimberly and siblings Will, Nick, Grady, Adelyn and Greta.

Written by Randy Yeisley | Yeisley Financial Group

When Should You Draw Social Security?

During meetings with clients and prospective clients, no topic is more emotional than that of Social Security. The majority listen to reason and logic and wait until the optimal age to draw Social Security for their particular circumstances. However, there are a few that make comments such as “I’m taking Social Security as soon as I can in case it goes away.” This response usually stems from a basic fear of either not having enough income to retire or having to work longer than they desire. Decisions based on fear usually turn out not to be the best ones.

WHEN TO DRAW

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 might end up robbing yourself of more money toward the end of your life when you need it even more. The chart below shows the age that workers drew their Social Security retirement in 2022. You will notice that a significant percentage of people elected to draw their Social Security at age 62 rather than waiting until their full retirement age. If you were born between 1943 and 1959, your full retirement age is 66. If you were born in 1960 or later, your full retirement age is 67. Your benefit will continue to grow at 8 percent per year that you defer taking it after your full retirement age, but without a detailed analysis, you don’t know for sure if waiting is the best decision for your particular situation. Don’t just make a “seat of the pants” decision because that one decision will affect your income for the rest of your life. Another consideration is whether or not you want to continue to work after drawing your Social Security benefit. If you draw before your FRA, you are limited in how much you can earn without affecting your benefit. The maximum income for 2025 is $23,400. This means that if you are under FRA and earn more than $23,400 in a year, your Social Security benefit will be reduced.

LONGEVITY MATTERS

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 that 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. Beyond your own life expectancy, you should also evaluate your spouse’s life expectancy. If your spouse has a lower Social Security benefit than you do, it may behoove you to delay taking Social Security in order to benefit your spouse when you are gone. Keep in mind that the surviving spouse gets to keep the higher benefit of the two, but they will lose one of the Social Security benefits.

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 connect@yeisleyfinancial.com or by calling 316.719.2900.

Inspired to Give

Written by John Huthmacher

Kansas Family Voice

A local non-profit Christian ministry is working to make Wichita and Kansas elected officials better informed when it comes to understanding issues that impact the long-cherished family values shared by many.

Kansas Family Voice (KFV) is a non-partisan, faith-based group focused on defending biblical principles through fundamentally sound legislative policies. Affiliated with the national Family Policy Alliance and Alliance Defending Freedom organizations, KFV engages government officials and area churches to defend religious freedoms.

Jeff Bennett, who serves as executive director, said the grassroots group works to engage government and church officials in bringing its faith-filled works to fruition. Core values behind its family oriented platform are that they are gospelcentered, non-partisan, relationally driven and prayer focused. Primary legislative issues include the defense of unborn children, sexuality policies involving children, religious freedom and school choice.

“We come alongside government officials through legislative policy, engaging them with a gospel-centered voice,” Bennett said. “We deal with many issues that revolve around faith within the state of Kansas. Whenever any of these core issues come up and our legislators are trying to understand them better, we share our subject matter expertise. It’s critical for us to educate them on these votes. We are constantly there for them and they appreciate that support.”

Through the interaction of Brittany Jones, director of policy and engagement, KFV is able to communicate with elected officials while tracking senate sessions at the state Capitol in Topeka.

“She’s up there every day our government is in session, working with legislators on both sides of the issue to bring education, awareness and understanding to the various issues at the core of our ministry,” Bennett said.

“We advocate for biblically informed policy to influence governmental outcomes,” he said. “There are many initiatives our state government has taken over that the church could be doing — immigration, foster care and other localized issues — that are happening within our communities. The church has stepped away and allowed government to step in, and frankly, the government doesn’t always do that well. We need to partner with government and figure out ways to handle things like homelessness and other major issues within our communities.”

Concerning church involvement, director of ministry development Stephanie Wiens labors to spur on local business leaders to action by bringing to their attention matters poised to impact the local community.

“The word of God says we should share the gospel and be praying for our governmental leaders,” Bennett said.

“We don’t care if they are Republicans, Democrats, or Independents, we just want to lift them up.”

As a 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) nonprofit, KFV relies on donations from area businesses and churches to fund operations. For information or to donate, visit kansasfamilyvoice.com or email Stephanie Wiens at swiens@kansasfamilyvoice.com.

The Kansas Family Voice team poses with Riley Gaines at the Celebrating Leadership & Courage event, hosted by KFV on September 10, 2024 in Wichita, KS.

The Kansas Family Voice team and KFV board of directors gathers for an afternoon of food and games at the annual KFV Christmas party in December of 2024.

& ANSWERS QUESTIONS

Q. What brought you to Wichita and why have you chosen to call it home?

A. My husband Aaron is the reason we live in Wichita. We met in college at the University of Nebraska, where he graduated a semester ahead of me and was recruited to work for Cessna Aircraft Company. At first, I was seriously questioning, “Why Wichita?” However, I followed the next year and began working for Cessna as well. And from that point all the “whys” gradually disappeared. We loved our jobs and the impact that Cessna had on a global scale. We also found a great community in our church, Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, and have made lasting friendships along the way. Ultimately Wichita has been an incredible place to raise our four children, I am so grateful Aaron listened to his gut and chose Wichita to be our home!

Q. Tell us a little bit about your healthcare journey?

A. My first role in healthcare was medical equipment sales. While it was a great learning experience, the focus was solely around numbers day in and day out: It left me feeling unfulfilled. I wanted to use my experience and capabilities to make more of an impact in the lives of patients. It was through a relationship that an opportunity in the home health and hospice industry was introduced. I was hooked on being able to immediately impact and brighten the day of patients and clients.

Q. What prompted you to start your company Trusted Senior Advisors?

A. I had been saying for years that I wanted to begin something of my own that would make a true impact in peoples’ lives. It became abundantly clear following a hospice consultation: The patient was a year older than me and was dying of cancer. Having to have such a difficult conversation makes you look at your own mortality, and it’s humbling. It was at that time I decided to believe in my capabilities and take the risk to start my own company.

With Wendy Havlovic Owner, Advisor, Advocate Trusted Senior Advisors

Q. How can our readers learn more about your company or utilize your services?

A. The best way to learn more about my complimentary service is to connect in person, over the phone at 316.200.7356, or through my website trustedsenioradvisorswichita.com.

Q. What are some of the biggest challenges senior care faces today?

A. In my experience, care coordination can be one of the biggest challenges facing seniors with multifaceted health needs and unexpected declines. The pressure experienced by family members to find care or alternate living arrangements for a loved one and navigate all the different obstacles can be overwhelming. My hope is that my services will ease those major stressors by providing families with knowledge and guidance every step of the way.

Alex Melugin, President of Phoenix Home Care and Hospice

Wendy with family

Spring Forward: How to Embrace Seasonal Change

Written by Alexis Evans

Every March, people begin to feel that inevitable shifting from winter to spring: The air is warmer, tiny buds are peeking up from the soil, and mornings begin with birdsong. Springtime is one of the sweetest transitions of all, as it’s the season of new life and beginnings. Here are a few ways to introduce springtime into your life this March.

Revamp Your Diet

It can be easy to become lax about what we eat during the winter. Access to fresh veggies is at a minimum, and cozy or hearty foods are an easier and more appealing option to warm up from the frigid Kansas wind. However, it’s still good to aim for a balance of fruits and veggies, even in the dead of winter. There are foods grown in warmer climates that we’re fortunate to have access to. Try to include lots of root vegetables in your diet such as carrots, potatoes, sweet potatoes, turnips, parsnips, etc. Hearty greens such as kale, swiss chard, or other nutrient-dense options are a wholesome addition to include in your favorite winter soup or pasta dish. Including an extra portion of veggies per day can have a huge effect on your overall health, making your transition to spring that much more pleasant.

Get Outside

It’s cold. No one wants to freeze their fingers off. But every winter brings brief reprieves in the weather, such as a perfect 60 degree Sunday without wind. As March descends, more and more pleasant days appear. Use these days to get outside as much as you can. Sunlight and sunshine are so incredibly good for you, and spending time outside is clinically proven to heal whatever is wrong you (according to my mom). It’s not rocket science. Go outside; it’s good for you.

Spring Cleaning

It feels much easier to kick the hibernation mindset when you declutter and clean your space. Spring cleaning starts early! Take a look around your main living and work spaces to identify items that bring you no joy and serve no purpose. It’s easy to let bills and mail pile up, so why not create a quick filing system that allows you to create some order from the chaos. Or go through your closet and find the items that no longer fit or that you haven’t worn in a while. Many have that one sweater that we tell ourselves we like, but every time we put it on, it just doesn’t feel right. Donate it! Someone else will find reasons to love it. Many say that a decluttered space creates a decluttered mind, and as a bonus, this helps your tidy home become a clean home when the real spring fever cleaning frenzy hits.

Spring is almost as welcome as fall. Make the most of it by starting your springtime habits early. You won’t regret it.

SA V E TH E D AT E

March 13th, 2025

Distillery 244 Wichita

Join us in celebrating Developmental Disability Awareness Month with an unforgettable evening of delicious food, inspiring stories, exciting auctions, entertainment, and more.

Reserve your tickets and tables today: www.AbilityPoint.org/EDGE - 316-943-1191

Guidance and Advocacy by AbilityPoint

March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, a time to promote inclusion, challenge stereotypes and celebrate individuals with developmental disabilities. Established in 1987, this month highlights the importance of accessibility, equal opportunity and community support.

In Wichita, AbilityPoint brings this message to life through its advocacy, education and social programs. Since 1953, the organization has supported individuals with developmental disabilities, providing essential resources and a sense of belonging.

One of those benefiting from AbilityPoint is Caleb Seagraves, 27, who has the mentality of a 4-year-old due to complications at birth. His grandmother, Marilyn Belcher, gained custody of him nearly 20 years ago and relies on AbilityPoint’s support.

“I don’t know where we’d be without AbilityPoint,” Belcher said. “Talking to other parents and knowing I’m not alone — that is important to me.”

Beyond support, Caleb enjoys social and educational opportunities that enrich his life. “This is his circle, his safe place,” Belcher said. “He gets to experience so much with his friends, going places and enjoying life. It gives me peace of mind because I know he’s safe and happy.”

As Kansas’ largest targeted case management provider, AbilityPoint ensures individuals like Caleb have guidance, advocacy and a plan for the future. “That is a real blessing,” Belcher said.

WHEN TBI MASQUERADES AS DEPRESSION

Written by John Huthmacher

How Korin Mayer Got Her Brain Back

After enduring a frightening car accident in January of 2021, Wichita resident Korin Mayer believed the serious injuries sustained to her right arm were the worst of it. Little did the now 20-year-old know that her collision involving a large pickup truck and an SUV would leave her mired in depression from undetected brain damage.

In light of March’s designation as National Brain Injury Awareness Month, Mayer recently reflected on her ordeal and how her initial non-diagnosis caused her eight months of mental agony as she struggled through depression caused by a frontal lobe injury.

“I never even knew there was an issue,” she said. “I broke both bones in my wrist, had torn ligaments, and wore a cast way up my right arm. A brain injury is not the first thing you think about when you have a broken wrist. But then it impacted my decision-making skills and mental health so badly that I couldn’t get control of them. I didn’t feel safe anymore.”

Plagued with short-term memory loss and thoughts of suicide, Mayer sought treatment for a month at a mental health residence in Florida. When symptoms persisted, she pursued treatment locally, hoping doctors could determine just what was triggering her declining mental state. That’s when her mother spoke with a friend of a friend whose

former husband had exhibited similar symptoms and been diagnosed with brain damage issues. With that, hope sprung eternal.

Mayer worked with a local physician who offered brain mapping, a non-invasive EEG analysis of 19 brain regions, and her brain map revealed traumatic brain injury (TBI). Though terrifying at first, the diagnosis of brain inflammation and injury led to treatment that ultimately brought her unsettling journey to an end. Following multiple rounds of brain training on her iPad, she was back to her old self inside three months.

“I had worked for eight months through all kinds of therapies and diets and nothing helped. The only thing that did help was the brain training.”

— Korin Mayer

“After a month of doing 45 minutes a day on my iPad, the change was super significant,” Mayer said. “My focus returned, and I could actually sit and read a book as I retrained those (impacted) brain waves. I could feel myself becoming happier and less anxious. I feel OK now.”

Her advice to anyone exhibiting depression, memory loss, or other like symptoms: get a brain map test, pronto. The results could prove life-changing, she said.

“There are a lot of things that can be helped through brain training (treatment), not just specifically brain injuries,” she said. “I had worked for eight months through all kinds of therapies and diets and nothing helped. The only thing that did help was the brain training.

“If you are struggling, don’t be discouraged. There’s always hope for you. The stigma around brain injuries is that they can’t be fixed. It’s important that people get the help they need to continue on with life and be able to do the daily things that are so hard with a brain injury.”

WSU, Charles Koch Arena

Shocker Sound

Curtis Zerr, Jessika Mayer, Jody and Terry Klein

The Provines family

Natalie Arnold, Kennedy Denson, Isabel Prine, Kinley Howland and Elise LeGrand – Shocker Spirit Squad

Daniel Scislowski, Kat Fishwick, Abi Rees and Caleb Godbey

Cora Olson and Zoe Scislowski

Christopher Leonard, Angel Morales, WuShock, Ransom Butler and Sarah Selman

Student Health Services

JoAnne Fenn, Michelle Cagle, Lourdes and Bryan Williams

The Young family

Sarah Selmon, Jessica Provines, Christopher Leonard and Mari Young

Melissa, Grant, Christopher and Harrison Leonard

WSU’s Suspenders4Hope Program Expands Mental Wellness

Written by Jessica Provines, Ph.D.

Building a Healthier Kansas

In today’s fast-paced world, mental health challenges affect nearly everyone — whether personally or through a loved one. Wichita State University is leading the way in fostering community mental wellness through the Suspenders4Hope prevention program. Designed to empower individuals with education, resources and practical tools, this initiative is making a real difference for businesses, schools and organizations across Kansas and beyond.

Now, through an exciting new partnership with OneRise, the impact of Suspenders4Hope is expanding even further, bringing critical mental health education and resources to more communities across the state. This collaboration strengthens Kansas’ behavioral health network by training more advocates, equipping workplaces, and breaking down barriers to care in underserved areas and priority groups like veterans, construction workers and those in the hospitality industry.

What is Suspenders4Hope?

Suspenders4Hope is more than just a campaign — it’s a movement. Rooted in research and developed with mental health professionals, the program provides free online training, workplace wellness resources, and a communitydriven approach to preventing suicide and overdose. Through partnerships with local businesses and organizations, WSU is equipping leaders and employees with the knowledge and confidence to support those who may be struggling.

Be a Mental Health Advocate With the Share, Ask, Support Method

You don’t have to be a professional to make a difference. One of the most powerful tools Suspenders4Hope offers is training in the Share, Ask, Support method:

• SHARE your own experiences to normalize conversations about mental health and express concern when you notice someone struggling.

• ASK for the help you need and check in on others. Talking directly about suicide can save lives.

• SUPPORT by connecting to resources without judgment and staying in touch.

These simple yet effective steps foster hope, connection and action — creating a stronger, healthier Kansas.

Expanding Access with Hope Kits

Through multiple community partnerships, WSU is also working to distribute Suspenders4Hope Kits to those in need. Hope Kits are grounded in evidence-based treatment strategies and are designed to bring tangible mental health resources to those

who may not have access to professional care. These kits serve as a personalized toolbox for resilience, often including comforting items, coping strategies, crisis resources and reminders of reasons to keep going.

Anyone can create their own Hope Kit by filling a box with meaningful items — such as uplifting notes, sensory objects or self-soothing tools — that provide distraction and calm during difficult moments. By building a Hope Kit, individuals can take an active step toward mental wellness and crisis prevention. Add a reminder that the 988 crisis line is always available to offer support.

Take the Free Training to Access Workplace Wellness Tools

Suspenders4Hope offers free online mental health training for individuals and workplaces. Whether you’re an employer looking to improve workplace culture or simply someone who wants to help a friend in need, this training provides practical skills to recognize and respond to mental health concerns.

Together, we can build a stronger, healthier Kansas — one conversation at a time.

Visit Suspenders4Hope.com to:

• Take the free training

• View real stories of hope

• Explore free wellness resources Join the movement. Share, Ask, Support.

Stuffing Hope Kits at the 2025 Wellness Retreat.

Written by Alexis Evans

Life After Opioids:

Harvey

Boxberger’s

Journey through Addiction

Harvey Boxberger’s childhood is what many would call complicated. As one of six siblings, he was often labeled the troublemaker and black sheep of his family, most especially in comparison to his twin brother, who according to Harvey “could do no wrong.” These kinds of painful assumptions about your character are a difficult thing to overcome, as many who are described as troublemakers are merely misunderstood. Though Harvey tried marijuana once when he was in high school, it held little appeal for him, and he quit before he even began. However, there was a more fierce and darker drug that would find its way into his life.

Harvey worked as a protoshop supervisor at Excel Industries for 35 years until retirement. He married his wife, Carolyn, 45 years ago, and they have four beautiful children and nine grandchildren. However, due to a series of unfortunate medical incidents, including two broken backs, nasal surgery, and lingering injuries from a head-on vehicle collision, Harvey found himself, like many others, in the clutches of opioid drugs. As he recovered from these injuries and surgeries, he found himself becoming more and more desperate for painkillers, which led to him stealing from one of his wife’s patients, asking his friends to fill prescriptions, and even locating a prescriptionhappy doctor who did nothing to address an increasingly complicated addiction.

Harvey unfortunately took a long time to acknowledge that he had a problem, at one point even denying and ignoring an intervention by his wife and children. However, when his children set the boundary of no contact with their own children, he knew it was time to face the problem head on.

This led him to Valley Hope addiction treatment and recovery center in Moundridge, Kansas. There, he went through the program several times before his treatment and rehab finally began to stick. Through Valley Hope, Harvey found Center for Change, which was another major factor in his addiction treatment. At Center for Change, where Harvey calls the desire for improvement “inevitable,” he began to realize just how important his family was, especially his wife Carolyn.

“You have to find your why. You have to want it. The first time I went through the treatment, I did it for others. The last time I did it, I finally had the revelation: ‘I have to fix this, or I am going to die.’ ” Especially after such a complicated upbringing, Harvey realized how much he has to live for, and finally did the hard work of overcoming his addiction.

Through Dr. Lakin and Center for Change, Harvey has found the support he needs. Dr. Lakin and his staff were instantly receptive to Harvey. “Anyone who gets hooked up with Center for Change will have their life transformed,” Harvey says. “All

the people who work there are deeply committed, kind, nonjudgmental and eager to help.” Though addiction will always be a part of Harvey, he is equipped with tools and expertise that allow him to enjoy his beautiful family and life.

Now, Harvey can be found working as a “house husband,” happy and eager to keep the household running while his wife continues to work. Harvey credits his wife with his

“Anyone who gets hooked up with Center for Change will have their life transformed. All the people who work there are deeply committed, kind, non-judgmental and eager to help.”

Harvey Boxberger

recovery: “If it hadn’t been for my wife, I would probably be dead. She didn’t give up on me, she hung in there, and things are wonderful.” Now the happy couple spends their free time outdoors hunting, fishing, boating and planning “grandkid camps” for their nine grandkids. Harvey does not take his life for granted and is aware every day of how lucky he is to be alive.

The Family of Harvey and Carolyn Boxberger

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.

EAGLE SCOUTS IN ACTION Eagle Scout Joe Tigert

Written by John Huthmacher

From descending the heights of the Grand Canyon to exploring underground mine shafts, being a scout left a deep and lasting impression on Wichita resident Joe Tigert.

Class of 1976

The 61-year-old husband, father of three and grandfather from Telluride, Colorado, relocated to Snowflake, Arizona, at age 10. As the token Catholic in Latter-Day Saints-sponsored Troop 265, he attained Eagle Scout status in 1976 at age 13. Additionally, Tigert attained Gold, Silver, and Bronze Eagle Palm awards by earning five additional merit badges for each level. His adventures in the troop included several camping and hiking excursions that instilled in him a sense of leadership that has served him well during his 30 years as manager at New York Life and in his current role as owner of R.T. Financial wealth management in Wichita since 2021.

Serving as a senior Scout patrol leader, Tigert developed an aptitude for communication and following through on tasks, skills he continues to utilize to this day: “At scout camps, they measured how well we were communicating. Honing the skills needed to get different types of people to work together toward a common goal is precisely what business management is all about. You’ve got to get everybody going in the same direction.”

He credits scoutmaster Mike Little for making his scouting experience both enjoyable and educational. Though seemingly lost at some points during troop wilderness

hikes, Tigert is pretty sure Little’s ongoing use of maps was more for their edification than anything else.

“We literally had to get the map out on every hike!” he said. “As an adult, I now think he maybe knew where we were all along.”

Though no longer active in scouting, Tigert continues to tout the value of becoming an Eagle Scout. Lessons taught through scouting provide invaluable insights to young people seeking to better themselves through the process of completing demanding tasks with their peers.

“Scouting is a challenge,” Tigert said. “It challenges you in ways that you are not going to get challenged elsewhere, teaching you how to survive in unpleasant conditions. It helps you to grow up and realize there is a lot out there to be learned in nature.”

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.

This St. Patrick’s Day wear green socks,

OPEN HOUSE RIBBON CUTTING CEREMONY

Sullivan Hairwear, The Studios on Market

Megan Hoffman, Robyn Sullivan, Alli Russell and Lexie Gomez

Toyanna Ariyaratne, Stephanie Nadeau, Kim Sanders, Faith Poulos and Hannah Villarta

Open house ribbon cutting ceremony

Owners Lisa Miranowski and Clint Jackson

Robyn Sullivan, owner

The Studios on Market

Lauren Schutz, Robyn Sullivan, Haylee McCormack and Alli Russell

Greg and Robyn Sullivan

Makayla Tanner, Allison Quinones, Robyn Sullivan, Bhavini Mahapatro, Lori Tanner and Alli Russell

Alli Russell and Donna Bremser

Clint Jackson, Lisa Miranowski, Alli Russell, Greg and Robyn Sullivan

Alli Russell, Robyn Sullivan, Jeff Mount and Tina Turner

Written by Julie Underwood Burton

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

Q. How did this journey begin?

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

Q. The concept of hair toppers is new to many women, but those who wear them love them. What are hair toppers?

A. A hair topper is a hairpiece designed to cover thinning areas and add volume by clipping into your existing hair. Made from premium quality human hair, our handtied toppers blend with your own hair to provide a look and feel so natural they become a part of you. They can be cut, colored and curled as if you had grown the hair yourself.

Q. How does this magic matching process work?

A. The Sullivan Hairwear salon experience is unique. During the 90-minute private consultation we get to know our clients — asking about their personal hair journeys and hair goals — even before they try on their first topper.

We offer and have in stock over 25 popular colors in different volumes and lengths. Our stylist, Alli, works with clients and toppers to find that perfect match. She then cuts and styles — and can even custom-color — the topper to harmonize with the client’s own hair. Our clients walk out the door with gorgeous, full hair and new-found confidence. It’s instant gratification.

With Robyn Sullivan Owner, Sullivan Hairwear

Q. You help women who suffer from hair loss, but what about those who just want a big boost in volume?

A. All our clients come in for beautiful hair. Some want the whispers: “She looks amazing, what’s different?” Some want full volume hair for those big occasions and that, “Wow, look at her!” response. Sullivan Hairwear toppers can be whatever look you’re seeking — from everyday to special-occasion stylish accessory.

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

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

Q. What is the first step for a new client?

A. It’s simple — go to our website at SullivanHairwear.com and click on “Schedule Your Consultation.” Consultation fees are waived should the customer decide to purchase a Sullivan Hairwear topper.

Where to Find Them

Robyn Sullivan before-and-after

Robyn Sullivan and Alli Russell at the ribbon cutting of their new location at The Studios on Market. “We are so jazzed to be part of this new creative energy downtown,” said Sullivan.

JUNIOR LEAGUE 100TH ANNIVERSARY GALA Exploration Place

Braden and Stephanie McCurdy

Bruce and Macaela Harris, James and Veronica Seberger, Jill and Todd Walters

Corey and Cindy Patry, Sara Abrahams and Jared Schrag

Ami Schlader, Alyssa Hoffine and Niomi Thompson

Junior League –100th Anniversary committee

Junior League past presidents

Junior League – Memory Walk volunteers

Cameron and Megan Sellers, Sarah and Jake Hartman, Mary and Jared Ayers

Jessika Mayer, Dawn Tucker, Pat Thompson, Megan McGraw and Mary Pfannenstiel

Janice Schmaltz, Lisa McPherson and Joan Moore

Anisha Patel, Priscilla Richecky, Amanda Gorney and Michelle Naftzger

Abhilash and Samantha Jacob, Leslie Wessel and Eric Papon

TeOndra Phillips, Glen and Mariane Misko and Molly McFerson

Tim and Jinny Ellis, Jessica and Chris Strong

Troy and Laura Fichen, Jenn and Andy Naumann

Sue Boots, Lynne Tinker and Kathy Gann-McCoy

Linda Newman, Tony and Katie Leiding and Cindy Nolte

Julie Buth, Mandy Wilbert, Jennifer Bauer, Shannon Braun and Mary Kate Barnthouse-Taylor

Jessica Suhr, Jinny Ellis and Shannon Braun

Todd and Ellen Winkler, Betsy and Scott Redler

Lynn and Dale Ward

Vicky Rockhill and Julie Rains

Susan and Mark Kiefer

Sarah Lopez and Brent Lewis

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.

Spring Fashion Trends : A Fresh Take

The days will be getting longer (yay) and the weather will start to warm up. That means one thing in the world of fashion: refresh. This season I’m noticing that designers are embracing a healthy mix of boldness, elegance, comfort and style. So whether you love your fashion vibrant, soft, breezy or timeless, here’s what you need to know for Spring 2025.

Floral and Nature Inspired

When we think spring we think florals! Add tropical motifs and leaf-inspired designs and bring a resort vibe to your daily wear. Pair with a fun blazer, strappy sandals or even tailored trousers to give a playful yet sophisticated look.

Pastels and Vibrant Hues

Spring fashion seems to always be synonymous with colors, and this season is no exception. Pastels like lavender, baby blues and soft pinks are still here and offer that romantic and delicate touch to your wardrobe. On the other hand, bold hues are still around, like tangerine and fuchsia. These colors bring out the twist of your playful side.

Accessorize Me Please

Spring is always the time to add bold, fun accessories like a chunky necklace, oversized sunglasses and a unique handbag to express your personality in every outfit. When it comes to shoes, colorful sneakers, flats and strappy sandals are here to dominate the season.

Light and Airy

With rising temperatures comes the must-have of the season. Breathable and flowy dresses, shorts, trousers and jumpsuits. Pair any of these fabrics with a light cardigan for those cooler evenings.

This season is all about embracing light, color, creativity and elegance. There is something for everyone when you pair these together. The key is to mix comfort, style and a touch of your personal aesthetic. So as the rain comes and flowers bloom, step out in style and make this spring your most fun and fashionable yet.

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

A Spirited Step Up to the Next 50 Years

Written by Paige Feikert

The Ulrich Museum of Art

An iconic and unmistakable stop on Wichita State University’s main campus is celebrating half a century of sharing art with students and the rest of the Wichita community. Ulrich Museum of Art turned 50 years old in December and is continuing a two-year long celebration this spring with the Ulrich50 Gala.

While the museum’s official 50th birthday was December 7, the celebration kicked off January 1, 2024, and will continue through 2025. Part of that celebration includes the Ulrich50 Gala on May 9 from 6 to 9 p.m. at NICHE in downtown Wichita. The event includes an upscale art auction, wine and whiskey pulls, food and drink, a performance by New York-based hammered dulcimer virtuoso Max ZT and the debut of a book featuring memories and stories from the museum’s first half-century. Tickets go on sale March 10 and are available online. The museum, located on the southwest corner of campus, is marked by a vibrant mural called “Personnages Oiseaux” (Bird People) designed by artist Joan Miró. The mosaic mural features bright colors and an unmistakable design — one that was donated by the artist himself.

Another defining feature of Wichita State University’s main campus includes dozens of sculptures spanning the 330-acre campus. These sculptures are part of the Martin H. Bush Outdoor Sculpture Collection, which includes 88 sculptures, two of which were installed just last year. The collection will grow again in April with the addition of the 89th sculpture by American artist Bianca Beck.

The mural and sculpture collection are just two features of this hidden gem, which holds a permanent collection of more than 7,000 pieces of art, including paintings, ceramics, photographs, fiber works, prints, drawings, films and more. These works make frequent appearances in new exhibitions that rotate throughout the year together with works loaned by other museums.

Photography, Pop-Ups, Paintings

Feature in First Half of 2025

Spring exhibitions currently on view are a part of the anniversary celebration. “Devan Shimoyama: Rituals” features vivid and colorful works by the contemporary artist that are inspired by fantasy and transformation. “Jim Riswold’s American Death Part 1” is a display featuring death masks and photography that explores historical figures and cultural icons through time. “Listening Devices: The Photographer and New Perspectives” is a reflection on the act of listening to create understanding and empathy. “The Ulrich Co-Lab: Homegrown,” highlights work by nine local artists inspired by pieces in the museum’s permanent collection.

The Dr. Sam and Jacque Kouri Collection Study Center is located at the Ulrich. Students and members of the public can request to view specific works from the permanent collection which can be displayed for them in this learning space.

The center features a number of pop-up exhibitions this semester, including “Telling Your Stories,” a photo competition exhibition inspired by Gordon Parks. The Ulrich Museum is honored to steward 176 photographic works by the groundbreaking photographer, writer, and filmmaker. The exhibition is on display until March 15. Three other pop-up exhibitions will take place here during the spring semester: “Kansas Global Cuisines and Cultures Week” in late March, “Gaypril Drag Fest” in early April, and “The Hidden Side of Emergency Medical Services” in late April.

The Ulrich Museum also offers free programming for anyone in the community who is interested in the arts, including artist talks, artist workshops, Senior Wednesday programming and community events. You can find programming information on the museum’s website.

The work done by the Ulrich Museum of Art is aimed at serving the students at WSU and the Wichita community through interactions with modern and contemporary art. Admission is free, and the museum is open Tuesdays through Saturdays. For tickets to the Ulrich50 Gala, information on exhibitions, and programming, visit the museum’s website at ulrich.wichita.edu.

Deborah Butterfield, “Lumen,” 2020, cast bronze with patina. Museum purchase with funds from Woolsey Hall.

Irish Fare with American Flair

Irish Apple Cake with Ree Drummond

For the streusel topping:

¾ cup all-purpose flour

½ cup granulated sugar

¼ cup old-fashioned oats

1 pinch of kosher salt

½ cup unsalted butter, cubed

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, oats and salt. Using your fingers, rub the cold butter into the ingredients until the mixture is well combined and easy to pinch together. If the dough appears sandy, continue working the butter in until you can form it into a dough ball. Cover and refrigerate the streusel for at least 15 minutes before using or up to one day.

For the cake:

Baking spray with flour

1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. ground cinnamon

¼ tsp. kosher salt

½ cup unsalted butter, melted

⅔ cup granulated sugar

2 tsp. vanilla extract

2 large eggs, room temperature

3 Tbsp. milk

3 small Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored and thinly sliced

The Ides of March usher in St. Patrick’s Day along with a nod to traditional Irish cuisine. Inspired American chefs like Bobby Flay, Ina Garten and Ree Drummond give contemporary twists to classic Irish dishes.

Written by Julie Hying

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray a 9-inch round baking pan with baking spray with flour and line the bottom of the pan with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon and salt. In a large bowl, whisk together the melted butter, sugar and vanilla. Add the eggs, one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Add the flour mixture to the butter mixture in 2 parts, alternating with the milk, folding until just combined after each addition.

Spoon the batter into the prepared baking pan. Top with the sliced apples, arranging them so they lie in an even layer. Remove the cold streusel from the refrigerator and break it into dime-sized pieces. Cover the apples with the cold crumbled streusel. Bake until golden brown, 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes. Allow the cake to cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Turn the cake out onto a plate, remove the parchment paper, and turn it over again onto a wire rack, allowing it to cool completely, streusel-side up.

For the vanilla custard sauce:

5 large egg yolks

½ cup granulated sugar, divided 1 ¾ cups half-and-half ¼ tsp. kosher salt

2 tsp. vanilla bean paste

For the vanilla custard sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and ¼ cup of sugar until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is lightened in color, about 1 minute. Place a fine-mesh sieve over another empty medium bowl. In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, heat the half-and-half, salt and remaining ¼ cup of sugar. Heat, stirring frequently, until steaming (do not boil). Whisking constantly, slowly pour about 1 cup of the warm half-and-half mixture into the egg mixture. Add the warm egg mixture back to the remaining half-and-half mixture, whisking to combine. Cook until the mixture starts to thicken, coat the back of a spoon, and an instant read thermometer registers 175°F to 180°F, 2–3 minutes.

Immediately pour the mixture through the prepared fine-mesh sieve. Stir in the vanilla bean paste. Set the bowl over a bowl of ice water and stir to cool the mixture to room temperature. Place a piece of plastic wrap directly over the vanilla custard sauce and refrigerate until fully chilled, at least 1 hour. Serve the cake in slices, drizzled with vanilla custard sauce, if you like.

Irish Guinness Brown Bread with Ina Garten

1 cup quick-cooking oats (not instant), such as McCann’s, plus extra for sprinkling

2 ¼ cups whole wheat flour, such as Heckers ¼ cup all-purpose flour

½ cup dark brown sugar, lightly packed

2 ¼ tsp. baking soda

1 tsp. baking powder

2 tsp. kosher salt

1 (11- to 12-oz) bottle Guinness Extra Stout beer, at room temperature

1 cup buttermilk, shaken

5 Tbsp. unsalted butter, melted, plus extra for brushing the pan

1 tsp. pure vanilla extract

Salted butter, such as Irish Kerrygold

Preheat the oven to 450ºF. In a large bowl combine the oats, whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, brown sugar, baking soda, baking powder and salt. In a separate bowl, whisk together the beer, buttermilk, melted butter and vanilla. Make a well in the dry ingredients and pour the wet ingredients into the well. With your fingers, stir the batter from the middle of the bowl to the outside, until it’s well mixed. It will look more like cake batter than bread dough.

Boxty Brunch With Bobby Flay

Cheesy Hash Browns

2 Tbsp. unsalted butter

1 Tbsp. canola oil

1 medium Spanish onion, diced

1 ½ lbs small Yukon gold potatoes

2 tsp. paprika

Salt and freshly ground pepper

1 ½ cup grated, aged white Irish cheddar cheese

Chopped chives

Preheat the oven to 375ºF. Heat the butter and canola oil in a cast iron pan over high heat until the butter begins to sizzle. Add the onion and cook until soft and slightly caramelized. While cooking the onion, put the potatoes in a large pot of cold, salted water, bring to a boil and cook until nearly tender. Drain well and smash with the back of a wooden spoon.

Add the potatoes to the onions, packing it evenly with the back of a metal spatula to form a cake. Season with salt and pepper and cook until the underside is golden brown, about 10 minutes. Transfer potato mixture onto a plate or baking sheet without sides by carefully inverting the potato cake onto it. Carefully slide the potato cake back into the skillet and cook until the bottom is just set and pale golden brown, about 4 minutes. Spread the cheese on top, cover the pan with a lid and let it melt. Transfer the potato cake to a cutting board cheese-side up and cut into wedges. Garnish with chopped fresh chives.

Roasted Tomatoes with Bread Crumbs

6 plum tomatoes, halved lengthwise

Unsalted butter for greasing the baking dish

Olive olive for drizzling

Honey for drizzling

1 tsp. sweet paprika

1 cup Panko (Japanese) bread crumbs

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

2 Tbsp. finely chopped, flat-leaf parsley for garn

Preheat the oven to 350ºF. Put the tomato halves in a lightly buttered baking dish, cut-side up, drizzle with olive oil, honey, and sprinkle with Panko. Remove the tomatoes from the oven and sprinkle with parsley. Drizzle with olive oil.

Brush a 9×5×2½-inch loaf pan with melted butter. Pour the batter into the pan and sprinkle the top with oats. Put the bread in the oven, immediately turn the temperature down to 400ºF, and bake for 45 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean. Turn the bread out onto a baking rack and allow it to cool completely. Slice and serve with salted butter.

Sautéed

Mushrooms

Canola oil to coat pan

1 pint cremini mushrooms, stems trimmed, cut into sixths

Salt and pepper

Heat the canola oil in a pan and saute the mushrooms until soft. Season with salt and pepper. For serving: Arrange on a platter the fried eggs, cooked bacon, cooked sausage, cheesy hash browns, roasted tomatoes, sautéed mushrooms, toasted brown soda bread and butter.

For serving

4 fried eggs

Bacon cooked to a golden-brown crisp

Good quality cooked lamb, chicken or pork sausages

Brown soda bread, toasted — see Ina Garten’s recipe

Room temperature butter

Ch e life, Sip tequila

Wednesday, March 26th at 6:30 pm. $90 per person.

• Includes tapas bar, street taco station, and try the Don Fulano Blanco, Reposado, Anejo, and Extra Anejo!

• Reservations required. Please call 316.358.9955 to make your reservation.

• Guest speaker to discuss the Don Fulano story and learn more about tequila as a whole.

1/2 off the entire tequila selection on Wednesdays & Sundays.

Erica Nanny-Rouse and Nea Alvarez

Estavan Luna, Jason Lans, Erick Arellano, Emmanuel Correa and Amanda Rempe

Jaci Weber and Chris Hull

Daryl Dienstbach with Amy Bailly-Kaufman and friends

Chef Omar Martinez and Judah Craig

Ben Mayer, Erik Maybee, Guin Robles, Kevin and Amanda Rempe

Adam Brownfield, Randy Pulec, David Laws and Corey Conyers

Isaias and Monica Quintana, Brittany Norris and Mike Reid

Chef Omar Martinez

Jason and Sherrie Lane

Eric and Laura Barnes, Amber Wilson, Nikki McCoy and Rosanne Greene

Crystal Wiley, Stuart Lu, Angelene Bergeron, Jessica Slater, Crystal and Alex Kessinger

Standard Beverage reps

Tony Jacobs, Freddie Van Duyne, Veronica and Navid Haeri

Whitney Stratton, Emily Donahue and Letitia Dakin

Miranda James and Tameka Reynolds

Lisa Tucker, Tonya Hytche and Sharris Nelson Menefee

Kim Azaria and Alan Nelson

Jason Riddle and Erika Knapp

Veronica and Navid Haeri, owners, Itzcali Tapas & Tequila

Maggie Zigler and Joe Giffin

Fantastic turnout on the Maestro Dobel tequila tasting event

Nicole and Dan Powers

Marlyn Castro and Alex Montelongo

WSU FIRST PITCH BANQUET

Aetna Multi-Purpose Center

Bryan Bonham, Tim and Alicia Strobel, Cristy and Reuben Kerbs

Cambree Smith, Marigny Williams, Hannah Flynn, Mila Seaton, Davis Mauzy, Lane Haworth, Kaleb Duncan and Arnad Mulamekic

Ayden, Maddy and Asher Hinkle, Ashlyn Isaacs, Alyssa and Drew Anderson

Zoe, Becki and Coach Brian Green

2025 WSU Shocker baseball team

Daniel Zang, Kennedy Noonan, Ali Jacobs and Drew Iverson

Addie, Adriane, Jay and Izzy Stephenson

Cole Chisolm, Jordan Butcher, Tami and Brett Cutler

Dean Whellams, Zoe and Becki Green, Jennifer Saal, Brian Green and Paul

Brian Flynn, Tobin Mateychick, Tyler Baker, T.J. McGreevy and Jordon Cooper

Ashley Davis and Logan Kreske

Nico Rodriguez, Nick Potter, Owen Reynolds, Kasen Richard, Aaron Arnold, Brock Lulewicz, Nate Langbehn, James Umbarger and Jaden Gustafson

Sarah and Cliff Anderson, Justin and Stephanie Arnett, Jeremiah Arnett and Emma Rhea

Lane Haworth, Marigny Williams, Kaleb Duncan, Hannah Flynn, Jordan Black and Chloe Chen

Jordan Rogers, Mauricio Millan, Emily Heibert, Taylor Ott, Jace Miner and Ryan Callahan

Jana and Gene Stephenson

Hellas Construction

Rick Case, Rick Muma, Jennifer Saal, Kiersten and Greg Harrod

Keaton Mans, Hunter and Jaiden LaMunyon, Connor Lungwitz, Chelsea Crovetti, Paige and Christian Cedeno

Peyton Walters, Hunter Holmes, Mason Munz and Michael Mulhollon

Shane Dennis, Clayton Dennis, Brent Kemnitz and Chris Wimmer

Melissa and Christopher Leonard, Nick and Jamie Luallen

Keith, Camden and Patti Johnson

The Green Machine Returns

Written by Alexis Evans

St. Patrick’s Day Event Round-Up

You don’t have to be Irish to appreciate a gorgeous green shamrock, or imbibe a green beer or a hearty meal of corned beef and cabbage. On the day when everyone pretends to be a little Irish, why not join in the fun with the rest of Wichita while you play the day away!

St. Patrick’s Day 5K

Delano Paddy Day Parade

It wouldn’t be St. Patrick’s Day without the show-stopping Paddy Day Parade in the historic Delano district on March 15. With food trucks and the street party beginning at 10 a.m., the parade beginning at noon, and individual celebrations by Delano, this all-day event is a mustattend for the whole family. With live music, kids’ and teen zones, food and booze trucks and an amazing parade, Delano hosts the emerald jewel in the weekend’s celebrations. Douglas Avenue will be closed through most of the day, so plan accordingly, and as always, drink responsibly. Visit the link for more information: delanopaddydayparade.com.

Green it up at the St. Patrick’s 5K Run/Walk. This annual event is a popular attraction for the whole family! Join the fun at the 15th annual Wichita St. Patrick’s Day 5K taking place on Sunday, March 16. With participation options for adults and adults, this event is perfect for both professional and amateur runners. According to the event website, this race will be chip timed, and awards will be given to the top three contenders in each group, with all participants receiving a custom event shirt and finishers’ medal. The regular 5K begins at 8 a.m., the kids’ fun run begins at 9 a.m., and the virtual 5K takes place all day. Follow the link for location, ticket and registration info: wichitarunningcompany.com/st-pats-5k.

Official Lucky’s

St. Patrick’s Day BarCrawl

Join in on the Official Lucky’s St. Patrick’s Day Bar Crawl! Taking place on March 15 from 4 p.m. to midnight, this crawl promises to be a good time with a day full of “green drinks, shamrocks, and epic, bar-hopping fun.” Amateur Irish enthusiasts will get plenty of opportunity to “crawl” around Wichita and support local bars while decked out in their best green. Find more info about this fun event here: crawlwith.us/wichita/stpattys.

Shamrock Scramble (Day 2 Only)

This popular yearly event has already sold out of their Day 1 tickets, so they’re adding a second day this year. Enthusiasts of every level are ready to celebrate St. Paddy’s with a little golf at Auburn Hills with the Shamrock Scramble Golf Tournament. Entry fee includes all the essentials for a perfect day of golfing: green fees, cart, range ball, a special tee gift for every player, lunch, prizes, and of course, plenty of green beer. Called “one of the most popular events of the season,” this tournament is a must-attend. Follow the link for registration information: wichita.gov/1536/Tournament-Schedule.

Tremendous Teens

Written by Julie Hying

Crusader for a Cure: Ruby Baker Shines a Heartlight

Kapaun Mt. Carmel junior Ruby Baker has always shown commitment and heart for service. Beginning at the tender age of 3, Ruby fell in love with dance and has been with Kansas Dance Academy ever since, a studio where hard work and the beauty of dance coalesce. There she spends many hours each week mastering dancing styles including ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical and modern dance. As a member of KDA’s Senior Company, Ruby pays it forward as a volunteer instructor to the “little” dancers who attend the academy.

At Kapaun, Ruby excels in mathematics, as well as other subjects, and is part of their Cum Laude program which includes a rigorous honors curriculum and high GPA requirements. After competing with the debate team her freshman year, the school dropped the program. Swift to action, Ruby helped start a debate club at her school so she and others could continue practicing their debate skills.

She also has a natural bent for artistic pursuits — one reason she may study architecture in college. With an eye for design, Ruby volunteered much of her summer a few years ago at Great Beginnings Boutique in El Dorado. This stylish and inspired clothing store partners with Branches Pregnancy and Family Center, which receives the proceeds from the boutique.

Many of Ruby’s experiences show dedication, support of those around her and a willingness to help others. In addition to her many volunteer hours, she is a good friend to her school and dance peers.

“Ruby’s teachers, even from a very early age, have shared that Ruby seems instinctively attuned to the feelings of others and is quick to be a friend to those who feel vulnerable or in need,” says Kristin Bogner,

TEENS

Ruby’s mother. Although this is an admirable quality, Kristin is most proud of her daughter for “her ability to always be true to herself, her beliefs and her faith. Even in times of difficulty, Ruby recognizes what is right and does what’s right, despite what is popular or what others believe.”

“Once Ruby decided to take this on, she fully committed to it.”

– Kristin Bogner, Ruby’s mother

Currently, Ruby has been working hard to raise awareness and funds for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS) along with Crusaders for a Cure team members Tammy Le and Julissa Miranda. With a lofty goal of raising $50,000 to fight blood cancers, further fund research and assist those who persist in this fight, they have devoted many hours to their campaigning efforts.

Nominated by former LLS Student Visionaries at Kapaun, these three have taken up the torch and reached out to countless individuals, businesses and organizations. “Once Ruby decided to take this on, she fully committed to it. I love to see how she is choosing to dedicate her time to something beyond herself. She’s been presenting to businesses and has found traditional as well as innovative ways to raise money,” said her mother, noting that the team is nearing $20,000.

Looking back over the weeks of fundraising, Ruby says, “I’m surprised by the number of people who are willing to support the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society and people with blood cancers. So many people, those I’m close to and many others, are willing to donate their time and resources.”

By serving others, Ruby Baker is making a difference in her school, within the community and in many ways, the world. To assist Ruby and her team in their efforts to help (ideally by March 8, but they will accept donations after), go to events.lls.org/mid/svoywichita25/tcrusaders. To see if your company matches charitable gifts, go to lls.org/matchinggifts.

Kapaun kids raising funds for LLS.

Photo by 22nd Story Photography

Spring Planting Prep

Written by Julie Hying

Helpful Hints From Janet Harding

Expert designer and master gardener Janet Harding of Bloom, Kansas, shares insight and thoughtful ideas for the early phases of spring and the preparations that will lead to beautiful blooms throughout the season. Bloom’s love of community and gardening informs her advice when it comes to designing and creating beautiful flower pots and beds, flower bed maintenance, plant replacement, seasonal clean-outs and vibrant yard makeovers.

Early March is the time to consult a local garden center and to schedule time with landscapers and designers who book up quickly during their busiest time of year. A good plan can lead to amazing results: plants, trees and flowers that can flourish throughout the growing season.

Pruning and Clearing

Take stock of established pots and beds to make sure last season’s annuals are cleared away, and the expected perennials are emerging from the soil. Remove any weeds, rocks, debris or surface stones, and loosen soil in empty pots and the extra soil around perennials.

March is also the time to cut back ornamental grasses. Hedge trimmers or a garden mini scythe can prove invaluable when cutting through the bottom of the stems quickly and efficiently. Closely inspect crabapples and other ornamentals to be sure there are no limbs touching or rubbing against each other as this can cause sores that allow boring to take place.

Prune crepe myrtles and cut back rose bushes. Cut back any gaura, a flowering plant, to five inches off the ground. This woody plant, when properly cared for, thrives in Kansas.

Planning, Palettes and Design

Consider whether a consistent color scheme is desirable or a more whimsical approach to the palette among plantings. Think how plants of various textures and heights draw the eye. These aspects may inform and guide the types of plants and flowers you wish to select.

Plan to include annuals in various areas around your home. Landscaped areas close to the home, around walkways, near patio, pool and deck areas add beauty and visual interest to the look of a home.

In addition to pot design, consider raised beds for flourishing gardens. This concept improves drainage, resists pests, inhibits weeds, provides a better soil temperature earlier in the planting season, is visually appealing and can be made from a variety of materials. They also require far less bending of the back and consequently, are easier to maintain.

Prepare and nourish soil in pots, in beds and even around trees (which may require taking out old mulch) by depositing a high quality fertilizer. Cotton Burr compost is preferable since it is organic, fermented, nutrient rich and known to promote adequate water retention. This is only to be spread at ground level rather than built up around a tree as one might do with mulch.

Planting and Frost Awareness

Some flowers like Shasta daisies and black-eyed Susans can be started from seed indoors in the late winter and early spring. Other flowers that begin as seeds are available in a wide variety of types and colors. Pansies, which are very cold-hardy, can serve as an early planting and provide a pop of color to a sidewalk, garden, walkway or pot of any size. If landscape areas or pots are planted in April, note that Kansas freeze patterns of the last five years have occurred during this month. If a frost is expected, cover plants and flowers with old bed sheets or something similar to protect the plantings from frost. They can be removed during the day as temperatures approach 40 degrees and the sunlight warms the soil.

From mid-April through early May, temperatures and ample sunlight typically provide prime conditions for planting annuals, additional perennials and ornamental trees into the ground or soil. These areas emerge with vibrance and liveliness and can thrive in the springtime rains and sunshine.

Keep in mind that many local garden centers in Wichita and surrounding areas are staffed with knowledgeable people who can provide assistance and answer questions regarding planting and maintaining healthy and beautiful trees, flowers and plants this spring and summer. Looking online for pruning and trimming guidelines can also be helpful.

Improve Your Water, Improve Your Health

Written by Julie Underwood Burton

Clear Choice Water of Kansas

Nick McKenzie and Grant Davis are thrilled to partner up as the new owners of Clear Choice Water of Kansas and are committed to continuing to provide Wichita and surrounding communities with innovative and effective water solutions. Growing up in the same Wichita neighborhood and inspired by the need for reliable and accessible water services, together they have set out to continue to build this business committed to healthy living through clean water sources.

Water quality is essential, and there is more drive than ever to understand the purity of water we drink, especially water from the tap.

According to a recent study by Sustainable Brands, over 70 percent of Americans drink tap water, however, most individuals do not know whether it is contaminated or clean. In another study, Quench USA reports that 19 percent of the population says they do not drink enough water because they do not trust the purity. Although bottled water seemed to be an answer this past decade, prices continue to skyrocket, and more people are becoming aware how plastic containers severely impact the environment.

Consumers Searching for Better Water Solutions

“Individuals honestly do not know the quality of water they drink, whether tap or bottled, and people need to drink safe water every day, and lots of it, for optimal health and lifestyle benefits,” states McKenzie. “The best way for you to guarantee that you are consuming clean, safe water at home, or to have purified water to take with you in a safe container on the go, is by installing a home water purification system. A water filtration system installed in your home is the answer.”

“Staff exceeded our expectations, and the installation was neat and clean. Our softener and reverse osmosis system comes with the best equipment and warranty available in the industry. Clear Choice is the best choice.”

— Customer Tim W.

Clear Choice Water delivers precise water treatments designed to enhance your home’s water quality. Services are grouped into two main categories: water purification products and water softener systems.

“Testing is the cornerstone of our service and allows us to understand your water condition fully before recommending and installing the appropriate system,” states Davis. “We offer treatments specifically designed for city and well water applications and a variety of purification options, including reverse osmosis drinking water systems for both city and well water.” Clear Choice Water is a Kenai authorized dealer and services many makes and models of equipment, plus providing diagnostics on existing water treatment equipment.

During March, Clear Choice Water’s Home Show Special is being extended and offers consumers a home water softener and reverse osmosis system for a reduced total of $3,995. (Some restrictions might apply.) “This is one of the best specials ever for this system that we offer to our consumers. Kenai brand is known to be the absolute best in the industry and the system also comes with a lifetime warranty. The Home Show Special is a savings of $2,000. It includes free installation and is a great incentive for anyone wanting to substantially improve the quality of their water with an excellent system and equipment” says McKenzie.

Free Consultation

Make a free in-home water consultation by calling 316.633.5769. McKenzie or Davis will come to your house to personally test your water, discuss water quality issues, offer personalized solutions and a free estimate. To learn more about the water filtration and softener systems, a list of helpful FAQs is also available on their website at clearchoicewaterofkansas.com. You can also request an estimate online.

Where to Find Them

clearchoicewaterofkansas.com nick@clearchoicewaterofkansas.com 316.633.5769

Imagine possibilities the

Full Service Interior Design & Furniture Store

In-stock, special order, and custom furniture · Accessories · Large rug selection · Bedding · Art · Custom window treatment · Kitchen & bath renovations · Fireplace installation/resurfacing · Flooring · Wall Treatment · Basement remodeling · Lighting · and More!

Think Design Source Interiors for your next home/office update

Achieving your design dreams is our misson service · expertise · unique-to-you design

Rugs, window treatment, custom furniture, retail & design showroom

Not just remodeling, not just construction, not just retail... Do you love your rugs?

by Nahid Holmes

easter treats & sweet smiles