WHITE KITCHEN RED WINE
IN THIS ISSUE: Moms Just Wanna Have Brunch Go-To Gardening Guide The Art of Fashion




















IN THIS ISSUE: Moms Just Wanna Have Brunch Go-To Gardening Guide The Art of Fashion
Hey, it’s May! We’re excited for warmer weather, blooming flowers, and long walks on (fingers crossed) windless, perfect evenings. We’re also pumped for all the celebrations this month brings: graduation parties, Cinco de Mayo, Memorial Day and — most importantly — Mother’s Day. It’s time to celebrate the women who have nurtured, loved and supported us throughout our lives. We will accept jewelry, flowers and cold, hard cash, thank you very much.
But seriously, we wouldn’t be who we are without the strong female figures in our lives. Mothers come in all shapes and sizes, and while some of us may have a biological mother, others may have a stepmother, grandmother, aunt, or a close family friend who has played the role of a mother figure. The beauty of motherhood is that it transcends bloodlines and family ties. It’s the love and care that matter the most.
In this issue, we’re sharing the story of one Wichita mom who started blogging as a way to stay home with her newborn daughter. Today, the blog and social media channels known as White Kitchen Red Wine are providing delicious recipes, party ideas and hosting tips to readers and viewers across the nation and globe — many of them moms seeking to make their families’ lives a little more “rosy.” Check out our fun interview with Sara Ayesh, and look for the special SPLURGE! Spritz cocktail she concocted for our readers. We tasted it and it’s oh-so-yummy.
12828 E. 13th N., Wichita, KS 67230 316.267.3678
Publishing Company Inspired Koncepts, Inc.
Owners Dr. Terry and Jody Klein
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Publisher and President Jody Klein - jody@splurgemag.com
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Editor Karen Long - proofing@splurgemag.com
Account Executives Kim Azaria - kim@splurgemag.com
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Also in this issue is our May movie roundup. Treat the mom in your life to one of the new releases at a local theater and let her eat popcorn to her heart’s content. If you’re looking to feed her more than movie theater snacks, make sure to check out our list of great places to enjoy Mother’s Day brunch. It’s more than just pancakes and omelets!
So let’s take a few moments this month to celebrate all the mother figures in our lives. From the woman who stepped in and raised us when our biological mother couldn’t, to the grandmother who always had a listening ear and warm embrace, to the aunt who never missed a birthday or a holiday, and to the friend who always had a shoulder to cry on — we thank you.
XO, Jody and Amy@splurgeict splurgemag.com
Accounting Firm of Esther M. Mollhagen, CPA
Graphic Design Mitch Gee
Contributing Writers Julie Underwood Burton, Alexis Evans, John Huthmacher, Julie Hying, Karen Long, Amy Palser, Levi Schwertfeger
Guest Columnists Nataliya Biskup, Nahid Holmes, Gregory Lakin, John M. Lasak, Eric Litwiller, Joseph Spaniol, Amy Sprole, Randy Yeisley
Fashion Photography Darrin Hackney Photography
Local Faces Photography Michael Carroll Jr.
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Recipes, inspiration, gorgeous photography, and one 4-year-old add up to lots of “rosy” moments for followers of White Kitchen Red Wine, the blog of Wichita influencer Sara Ayesh.
Young aspiring soccer players with financial constraints now have another opportunity: WSU student Chris Castaneda rallied volunteers and community support to launch Underground FC.
Exuberant floral prints, splashes of color and flowing fabric are perfect expressions of summer — and what better way to frame them than with the paintings, architecture and installations of Mark Arts.
White Kitchen Red Wine blogger Sara Ayesh
Photography: Kay + Bee
If you celebrate Mother’s Day at one of these delectable brunch spots, Mom will be gracious and claim it’s all about the quality time — but don’t stand between her and the build-your-own omelette bar.
Gardeners across the state are rolling up their sleeves and prepping for another hot and dry summer. The Kansas Garden Guide has answers for composting, fertilizing, cultivating, harvesting and more!
To be neighbors with Sara Ayesh is to get unexpected deliveries of desserts, appetizers, breads and other yummy things. Those are the perks of living next to a food blogger. “I always have leftover food and I’m dropping things off saying, ‘Let me know what you think,’ ” said Ayesh of Wichita, who runs the successful blog White Kitchen Red Wine (WKRW).
Ayesh has cultivated a local and national following for her simple but elegant recipes, party ideas and hosting tips — all beautifully produced and shot at her east-side home. Daughter Rosie, 4, is a frequent WKRW guest, helping her mom with kid-friendly dishes. “She’s vying for my job,” Ayesh said with a laugh. “She’s good at it. She’s out here making recipes in her little kitchen and taking orders: ‘What do you want in your salad? What do you want in your smoothie?’ That makes me happy.”
Motherhood was one of the reasons Ayesh started her blog. She had shuttered a successful online clothing boutique when Rosie was born, but with a degree in apparel marketing and business, she had an itch for a creative outlet. She started documenting the healthy recipes she was making to slim down postpartum, and in 2019 the food blog was born. It was an endeavor that allowed her to be home with Rosie and to use her skills in photography, social media, marketing and business.
It wasn’t long before national companies wanted to partner with Ayesh for branded content. Today, companies often seek out Ayesh for the added mom-and-daughter factor. “Rosie getting to work with me on sponsored content with brands — and brands specifically coming to me saying, ‘Hey, we want you and we want Rosie’ — is exactly why I started the blog. It’s something we can do together and it doesn’t feel like work. It doesn’t feel like it’s taking me away from her. If anything it’s given us ways to bond.”
Ayesh’s attractive blog is full of tried-and-true recipes as well as new ones she has created, all photographed in an airy and beautiful aesthetic. From doling out recipes to ebooks to party ideas, Ayesh said she is proud to offer her content for free to her online community thanks to partnerships with national brands that help fund the blog. It’s her way of engaging with and appreciating the tight-knit community of followers.
“Every day you’re trying to reach the right people,” she said. “But the people who are following me now and in my little community are the people who are supposed to be there. They’re loyal, they love what I do and I feel a real connection with them. They support the rosy moments.”
The “rosy moments,” as Ayesh’s followers well know, are the occasions to enjoy life with a little something extra, whether that’s a weeknight dinner or an elegant dinner party. “Big moments, little moments, significant milestones, or just something you’re thankful for … that’s a rosy moment!” Ayesh explains on her blog.
Ayesh was born in Mississippi and lived in Georgia and Arkansas before moving to Wichita at age 12. After graduating from Kansas State University, the apparel marketing major planned to move to Dallas and become a buyer. “And then I met my husband Ryan and I’m like, I love this man so I’m going where he’s going,” she said. The “where” was back to Wichita.
She landed a job as a buyer for a boutique in west Wichita before starting her own online boutique, Shop Mondays, with her college bestie. They closed the shop when they both had babies, and not long after Ayesh’s blog was born. The name White Kitchen Red Wine was an easy fit. “Those are my two essentials that I need when I’m hosting,” she said. “That to me married the two sides of the blog: I loved cooking and getting people together in our white kitchen in College Hill and I loved red wine. It was just who I was then and I feel like it’s going to stick with me for the rest of forever.”
Ayesh didn’t grow up cooking; instead, that task was left to her father. “He loves to host people and he has this big personality and he’s very, very good at it,” she said. “So I grew up with him hosting and I loved just watching him do that. It was very inspiring.” Cooking wasn’t on Ayesh’s radar until she got married, “I thought, either we’re going to starve to death or I learn to cook. So I did.” She loved the fact that she could zone out and forget about the day’s troubles while cooking a meal, or stir over a problem while stirring a big pot of soup. “I like the recipes that take a long time and I get to stand over the stove forever, but that’s not feasible for everyone. I’m a mom; I know you need dinner and you need it fast,” she said. Hence she has incorporated both types of cooking on her blog.
Photographing her food creations was another natural fit for Ayesh. She had learned to style and shoot clothing for her online boutique, and by trial and error developed her own style of food photography. Her aesthetic helped set her apart and catch the attention of brands seeking her skills in food photography, recipe development, branded content creation, food styling, and sponsored content. Past and current clients include such familiar names as Boulevard Brewing Co., Honeysuckle White, National Pork Board, FitVine and Quaker.
I like to host parties with different friend groups because people look for an excuse to dress up and get out. The PJs, Prosecco and Disco party was a favorite; we had pizza and Prosecco and I draped silver streamers from the dining room rafters and we had like 100 disco balls. I recently did a Peter Rabbit-themed tea party for Rosy’s friends and their moms, inspired by the cover of an antique Peter Rabbit book. Free State Flora did a gorgeous greenery installation over the table and I served a spiked sweet tea to the moms.
Go for basic, white dinnerware for at least 12 guests. You can dress it up by layering in colorful disposable napkins from Love of Character. My go-to wine glass for parties is the Camille from Crate and Barrel; a medium-size white wine glass is a good all-purpose starter. Stemless wine glasses are more dishwasher safe, but I prefer a stemmed wine glass because it feels fancy! For the table, I love a white table runner and tons of candles. Make sure they’re dripless to keep from ruining your furniture or table runner.
My go-to meal is anything with seafood, which is crazy because we’re in the middle of the United States without access to great seafood. But salmon is a fish Rosie will eat, my husband will eat, and you can make it lots of different ways. My husband is Lebanese and I fell in love with Mediterranean cuisine and learned from the ladies at the church. So now I’m the official cook of the family. My go-to seasonings are garlic powder and crushed red pepper. You can use them on veggies, meats or anything.
Blog: whitekitchenredwine.com
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On recipe shoot days, she usually tries to make and photograph three to five recipes, which requires lots of advanced planning. “The day of the shoot it’s chaos and there’s a ton of dirty dishes; the whole kitchen looks like there’s been an explosion and a tornado,” she said with a laugh. “It is tricky to plan the shoots, cook the food, be the photographer and editor — but that’s where I feel I bring a lot of value to brands that work with me. It’s a one-stop shop. You’re not having to go out and have someone source models, source photographers, source props, find a studio. They come to me and I’m doing all of it at home.”
Next up, she’d love to use her skills to photograph and produce a coffee table book of her own recipes and hosting hacks. “I want it to be pretty and one that people want to leave out,” she said. “It would be a legacy I can leave for Rosie.” She also is looking for more opportunities to connect with her online followers who live in the Wichita community — perhaps a supper club that would bring her digital content into real life.
“I think the huge takeaway I have from doing all of this is that I would have never come out of college saying, ‘I’m going to be a food photographer and recipe developer.’ But the journey I had to take to get here — there was a purpose in all of it,” she said.
“There’s so much you can learn if you’re interested, just by asking and not getting discouraged if you’re stuck. Being a stay-athome mom, you’re thinking, what am I ever going to do that could make money, be fulfilling and incorporate my kid? There’s always something, and I feel like I hit the jackpot in seeing that all come together, and I feel so lucky.”
Food blogger Sara Ayesh of White Kitchen Red Wine developed a summery drink especially for SPLURGE! readers. Gather some friends and enjoy this refreshing cocktail all summer long.
INGREDIENTS
Cucumber
Mint
Lime juice
Vodka
Lime-flavored sparkling water
Muddle together a slice of cucumber, a few mint leaves and 1 ounce of lime juice. In a martini shaker, shake the mixture together with ice and 1.5 ounces vodka. Strain into an ice-filled cocktail glass and top with lime-flavored sparkling water. Garnish with a slice of lime. Enjoy!
Being an Eagle Scout was somewhat of a rite of passage for the family of Dr. Dennis Moore of Wichita. His grandfather, father and three brothers all attained the Boy Scouts of America’s highest rank, as did Moore and two of his sons. The Eagle badge indicates the recipient has cultivated traits such as fortitude, leadership, citizenship, selflessness and good character. “You hear – and it’s true – that a lot of the astronauts, presidential candidates, political leaders, military leaders and certainly the majority of the people in the service academies like West Point are all Eagle Scouts,” said Moore, an oncologist and hematologist at Cancer Center of Kansas. “I put it on my application for my med school interview and I’ll be darned if they didn’t ask me about it.”
Moore encouraged his sons to include the accomplishment on their applications, and though they doubted their dad’s wisdom, they too experienced the same result. “When you’re a kid in Scouting you’re absorbing little bits and pieces of character development, responsibility, leadership, all while learning things like plumbing, home repairs, pet care, fishing and archery,” he said. “All the way
through are lessons of character – basically the components that make you a better human being, no matter what you do.”
Troop 542 at Holy Cross Lutheran Church was an active troop where Moore’s father was a leader, and Moore recalls going to fantastic places for hiking and canoeing. Time with dad is another huge benefit of Scouting, he said. “Scouting really provides a place to spend hours with your dad,” he said. “And you need your dad to motivate you when you have that last mile to get to Eagle. You need your dad to continue to strongly encourage you to finish the job, and you’re so glad you did.”
Moore is thankful for the practical lessons learned in Scouting – from public safety and emergency preparedness to first aid and citizenship. “But the really interesting thing, looking back, is it really gave you an opportunity to learn and demonstrate leadership, and you just don’t get that anywhere else.”
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.
Last year, it was the Russia-Ukraine war, the highest inflation rate in 40 years and the policy shift at the Federal Reserve to raise interest rates that caused both stocks and bonds to lose value at the same time. Bonds ended the year down about 13 percent and stocks ended the year down about 19 percent. By April of 2023, the market was up about 7 percent for the year, but many are worried that there is more volatility to come. Some believe that we could very well be headed towards a recession this year. So, what is an investor to do in this environment?
With so much turmoil in the world, many investors have been fearful and want to retreat to a place of safety. The problem is that we still have significant inflation, so we need to be able to make as much return as possible just to keep up. You could chase promotional CD rates at the bank, but tying the money up for long terms could work against you by not having available cash to take advantage of good buying opportunities in the market. If you want to be prepared to take advantage of the next market boom, but are worried about current market volatility, one option is to simply use a money market mutual fund within your investment account. By having the funds still in your investment account, they will be available for rapid deployment to take advantage of the next growth opportunity in the market.
Another choice you have for safety is fixed-rate annuities. These are not new products — they were first introduced to the public in this country in 1812. Funds placed into fixed-rate annuities are not FDIC insured, but each state has a guaranty association whose purpose is to protect policyholders and claimants in the event of an insurance company’s impairment or insolvency. In other words, these state guaranty associations serve the insurance industry in a similar fashion that the FDIC serves the banking industry. Fixed-rate annuities have stood the test of time as a reliable source of fixed return, and today, rates as high as 5.5 percent for a 3-year term are available.
Another useful type of annuity for volatile times is the fixed indexed annuity (FIA). These innovative annuity products were first introduced in 1995, but have gained much
popularity in recent times. Essentially, an FIA allows you to earn interest based on the movement of a market index, such as the S&P 500, but protects your principal from any market losses. You don’t lose any money due to market downturns, but the upside is limited, or capped, at about 8 to 10 percent depending on the insurance company and product features. This can be a good option when there is so much uncertainty about the future direction of the market. If the market goes down from here, the annuity protects the money from any market losses. If the market goes up, then the annuity will capture a reasonable portion of the market’s upside potential. This makes it possible to benefit no matter which direction the market goes from here.
It is important to note that there is no perfect place to invest money. There are pros and cons of investing money in bank products, insurance products and securities products. A well-diversified portfolio will usually include all three of these investment strategies. Seek the advice of a professional investment advisor that you can trust to help guide you through these turbulent times. Don’t settle for the same old advice that your advisor has handed out for the past several decades. Today’s financial world demands professional investment advice that is innovative, forward-thinking and product agnostic.
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.
If you or someone close to you suffers from migraines, you know what a debilitating condition it can be. Severe throbbing pain is often aggravated by physical activity and exposure to light, sound and smells. Lasting for hours or even days, migraines can also cause nausea and vomiting, blurred vision and dizziness.
But researchers at Wichita’s Alliance for Multispecialty Research are studying several medications that would help treat migraine symptoms or even prevent them – and that’s a relief to anyone who suffers from the often crippling condition. “Migraines cause the most disruption of normal life of any neurologic condition,” said Dr. Terry Klein of Wichita, a partner at AMR. “It affects productivity, quality of life for students, for employees — it has a significant economic impact. We’re looking for safer and more effective acute care treatment of migraines.”
AMR is conducting two different studies — one for adults and another for children — and is seeking participants for both studies.
AMR is exploring how an existing and frequently used hormone, oxytocin, can improve or alleviate the symptoms of migraine sufferers. Oxytocin is a hormone that plays a crucial role in social bonding and reproduction in mammals, including humans. It is produced by the hypothalamus, a region of the brain, and released into the bloodstream by the pituitary gland.
The medical community has used oxytocin to treat painful nerve problems in the past, but this study looks at how oxytocin might prevent migraines. Researchers are looking at what the hormone does to nerves and inflammation in regard to headaches. The medication being tested is a nasal spray.
“This is a novel approach — a new indication for an existing medicine,” Klein said. The study is in its second phase. Researchers are looking for participants over age 18 who have 14 headache days in a month.
The other study being conducted at AMR is for children ages 6–18 who experience two to eight migraines a month. Now in its third phase, the study looks at a new class of medication that treats migraine pain by a different method than those typically taken by migraine sufferers.
“Migraines create a throbbing-type pain, so for a long time treatment has been focused on getting control of the blood vessels within the brain,” Klein said. “These medications, called triptans, are very good and they go to a receptor that’s on the nerves to help the pain, but the medication also has an effect on the blood vessels.”
That is concerning for patients with known vascular disease or history of heart attack or stroke. But this new type of medication won’t have an effect on blood vessels, so theoretically it’s safer for people who have cardiovascular compromise.
Researchers believe the treatment being studied will target sensory nerve receptors — the nerves that give the pain sensation in a migraine — to get rid of migraine symptoms. “This new class of medication was developed because of the older medications. Researchers saw there wasn’t an effect on the blood vessels but there was an effect on the sensory nerves,” Klein said.
AMR hopes that both studies will help bring medications to market that will safely and effectively eliminate migraine symptoms or prevent migraines altogether — and make migraine pain a thing of the past.
In 1997, Angela Razook-Wright had a vision to build an answering service that targeted apartment communities throughout the Oklahoma City area. Known as “Inphonemation” for many years, RazookWright says, “Our vision was to build an answering service that solved all the complaints and problems with traditional live answering services.” After phenomenal growth over the next decade, in 2006 the company’s name was changed to Answer Advantage. As the company continued to grow, significant equipment upgrades were required to service the medical industry and to become HIPAA compliant, and these changes propelled the company to expand nationwide.
Q. Tell us about Answer Advantage and your services.
A. Answer Advantage is a fully automated answering service with over 2,400 clients nationwide. We serve a variety of businesses ranging from medical practices to apartment communities, customizing each account. What makes Answer Advantage special and sets us apart from our competition is our 24-hour customer care team. We take the time to personally set up every customer. Our goal is to out-service our competition.
Q. What makes Answer Advantage different from traditional live answering services?
A. I think people love the idea of a live service. The issues and concerns include situations where callers are put on hold, operators are overwhelmed with multiple calls and operators often don’t convey the actual needs of patients to doctors — plus live service is far more expensive than Answer Advantage. With Answer Advantage, callers are never put on hold, on-call staff hear the actual message left by the caller, creating a significant reduction in operator errors, the personalized menu helps route calls efficiently, and our company is far more cost effective. The Answer Advantage equipment combined with the 24-hour customer care team is a win-win.
Q. What is the company’s current focus and future vision?
A. My team, including Stefanie, Lynde, Kelli, Te’a, True, Staci and Don, are all excited about our current operations and projected growth. Our customer portfolio continues to focus on customized answering service solutions for apartment communities, medical offices and small businesses. Although we reach and help businesses nationwide, we want to continue to focus on helping our local businesses across Wichita and surrounding communities that need communication solutions and emergency after-hours service. We believe there are many businesses in the area that don’t yet know about Answer Advantage. We definitely are a local hidden gem!
To learn more and to see how Answer Advantage can customize a solution for your business, go to answeradvantage.com.
Feel free to call for local references or to set up a demo line for your office.
316.687.5056
answeradvantage.com
‘We worked hard to get to where we are. Our history speaks to our many years of passion and dedication toward our industry, and most importantly, to our clients.’
— Owner Angela Razook-Wright
GRAND OPENING
Colony Co-working Space
As a youngster growing up in Wichita, Chris Castaneda was drawn to soccer at an early age. The next-to-youngest of seven children, he played his heart out in games at Cloud Elementary School from second to fifth grade, but was unable to continue due to financial constraints at home.
After returning to the soccer field himself at age 17 through participation in adult leagues, the now-aspiring sports doctor and Wichita State University junior is giving marginalized children ages 9–16 the opportunity to experience what it feels like to be part of a team, without worrying about having the rug pulled out from under them — a chance to pursue their passion without limitation.
His youth club soccer program called Underground FC makes it possible for area youngsters — most of whom have never played organized soccer before — to compete and learn the game without cost to them or their families. Now three youth teams strong, Castaneda and his assistant coach give their time freely to teach the game and its life lessons of camaraderie, competition and friendship to help the fledgling athletes blossom into confident, successful individuals.
“I felt like I had unfinished business,” Castaneda said. “When I got older, the option to play soccer went away because of finances. I lost something I really enjoyed. After high school, I decided to pick the sport back up and started as a YMCA volunteer coach and wanted to tap into the community. That’s where the non-profit soccer club started.”
Launched in 2020, the program has been heartily embraced by players, their families, and the community at large. To date, all 49 players who have committed to the program are still active in it. Teams compete at the YMCA and Stryker Sports Complex, at levels ranging from recreational to intermediate to competitive soccer. Games at Stryker are the most competitive, with high-dollar clubsoccer opponents among the weekly competition.
Equipment is provided by the coaches, with community donations covering uniforms and player fees. Community support from area businesses and individuals demonstrates the strong buy-in locally, Castaneda said. “Every time I’ve asked for a sponsorship, I’ve gotten it,” he said. “A lot of times I’ve gotten offers without having to ask.”
To participate, players must maintain a 3.2 grade point average in school. Parental involvement is also key, though the coaches are happy to provide players with rides to practices and games when needed. Though all three teams play in boys’ divisions, the program is open to boys and girls in Wichita and surrounding communities who face economic challenges. Though composed largely of newcomers to the game, Castaneda said players with experience are equally welcome to participate and share their skill sets with their lessexperienced teammates. Despite giving away years of playing experience in most instances, the Underground FC teams are quite competitive, benefitting from the one-on-one instruction provided by the two coaches. But winning games is only part of the equation, Castaneda said.
“The biggest takeaway is trying to teach and inspire them,” he said. “The hope is that they continue, share the same vision we have, and show others that no obstacle is too big. What I find most satisfying is showing them that, if you have a hiccup in front of you due to finances, there is always a way around that. It’s just a matter of going forward and getting that support.”
The Underground FC U14 team poses after a recent match in Wichita. Founder Chris Castaneda is pictured in the red jersey at far right.Q. Explain how a die-hard OU fan ends up graduating from OSU?
A. Growing up in Oklahoma, my family would gather around the TV watching the Sooners and Barry Switzer’s dynasty dominate the football landscape. I still to this day love watching OU football! When it came time to choose a medical school, I only applied to OSU College of Osteopathic Medicine. I had worked at Tulsa Regional Medical Center, the major training hospital for OSU, and really fell in love with the people, program and philosophy of OSU-COM and knew it was the right fit for me. I love sports and will pretty much cheer for any team (well maybe not so much Nebraska or Texas!) in a good game but I love the tradition of OU football and KU basketball.
Q. How did you end up living and practicing in the Wichita community?
A. I met and married my husband in medical school and he was in the class one year ahead of me. He came to Wichita for residency training, so by default I followed him to Wichita the following year and was fortunate enough to match with KU Wichita Pediatrics for my residency training. Our initial plans were to return home to Tulsa following the completion of our residency training. However, we loved and embraced the Wichita community and here we are, 20 years later calling Wichita home.
Q. Your husband (Dr. Zachary Kuhlmann) is a wonderful OB-GYN physician here in town. How do you both juggle professional and personal life with such busy schedules?
A. Ha, when I figure out the answer to this question, l will let you know! In the meantime, we try to remain as flexible and adaptable as we can due to the unpredictable nature of an obstetrical practice. We have learned to drive two separate cars to any outing when Zak is on call for the day. We have been fortunate over the years to have had tremendous help and support with raising our two daughters and getting them to their schools and activities. As our daughters are getting older, we continue to really prioritize our family time together.
Q. You sit on the board at the Kansas Children’s Foundation. Could you tell us a little bit about that organization and how readers can support this cause?
A. The Kansas Children’s Foundation is a nonprofit organization that exists to provide support and resources to ill children and their families throughout Kansas. KCF is near and dear to my heart as I see its direct impact on so many of the pediatric patients and families I provide care for in the hospital setting. KCF has an individual financial assistance program that helps offset the cost burden families may encounter due to certain medications or supplies not being covered by insurance, transportation costs due to frequent appointments or therapies, or medical equipment needs in the home setting. KCF supports and funds several programs within Wesley Children’s Hospital that help provide emotional support and comfort for hospitalized children and families. Examples of these programs include music therapy, art therapy, bereavement services, and perhaps the most popular among our patients and staff, our therapy dog Carl.
We’re so excited to introduce you to our new weight loss injection, semaglutide. It suppresses your appetite, increases your energy levels, and helps you lose weight! It’s FDA-approved and safe to use.
It’s part of an exciting new class of medications called GLP-1 agonists that work on both your brain and your gut.
• In your brain, semaglutide helps dramatically reduce or even eliminate your cravings.
• In your gut, semaglutide slows down motility, so the foods you eat stay with you longer. You will find you get full, even after eating much less food.
You don’t have a special diet, but because you are so much less hungry it’s very important to eat nutrient dense foods while using semaglutide. With your sustained weight loss, you’ll find you are healthier and naturally more energized. This in turn makes exercise and an active lifestyle more appealing.
We see excellent results, and you can expect the following:
• Long-term weight loss
• One weekly injection
• Reduced appetite
• Better glycemic control
• Increased energy levels
Finally, it’s safe to take semaglutide for a lifetime. Like diabetics who must take insulin, semaglutide helps those who are prone to obesity keep their weight at a healthy place.
With our weight loss tools, you can have the body you’ve always dreamed of. What’s more, if you’d love to have plastic surgery but need to lose weight first, semaglutide can help you do just that. Along with reduced calorie intake and exercise, you can reach your weight loss goals easier than with diet and exercise alone.
Get your body summer-ready with semaglutide — come see us today! Our board certified plastic surgeons, Dr. Amy Sprole and Dr. Joe Spaniol, can help you on your weight loss journey. And after weight loss, they can help you with your body contouring goals.
Call 316.688.7500 today to get started.
Our weight loss patient, Troy N., feels great after going from 380 pounds to 225 pounds with weight loss injections. Here’s his story.
Tell us about your journey to the semaglutide injections.
Troy: My wife was having a treatment at PSC and learned about these weight loss injections. We discussed it and decided to try it to lose some weight.
Tell us about the treatments.
Troy: I do the injections in my stomach, and they are very easy. The injections are ready to go with a small needle, and I don’t have to prime them. It’s not intrusive at all, and the injections are painless. I wait 10 seconds, and then I am on my way.
Do you have any side effects?
Troy: I really didn’t experience any side effects.
How much weight have you lost?
Troy: I have lost 155 pounds. I will probably stay on semaglutide so I can lose more weight.
Do you feel different now?
Troy: I feel great, and I have so much more energy. I have always been the “clean plate” kid and got a gold star for eating well at every meal when I was a kid. With weight loss injections, I stop eating when I’m full. I no longer want to eat my whole plate. It’s been mentally hard to leave food, but now, when I’m done, I’m done! In addition, my sex life has greatly improved! I am very happy with my results and don’t want to go back to where I was.
Do you have advice for people considering semaglutide?
Troy: Set your mind to your goal when losing weight. The best part about semaglutide is it helps you reach that goal by making you want to eat less.
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.
Dr. Benjamin Weaver sees over 500 patients each month at Central Kansas Podiatry Associates, and many are seeking relief from common foot problems such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis or posterior tibial tendonitis. He also treats many wounds of the foot and leg, a complication associated with diabetes.
Now Dr. Weaver can successfully address all these ailments using SoftWave Tissue Regeneration Technologies, a safe, non-invasive treatment that sends short and frequent high intensity bursts of mechanical energy, in the form of a shock wave, deep into injured or inflamed soft tissue at the cellular level. “Amazingly, these energy waves turn on the body’s natural healing by basically tricking the body to into thinking it is being traumatized. New blood cells, along with stem cells, are triggered into action to build that tissue back up stronger and faster,” says Dr. Weaver. “One of the most significant things about this treatment is I have not seen many recurrences of the wound after SoftWave treatment has been completed.”
ShockWave technology has been around for a long time. It’s the standard of care for soft tissue injuries in Europe and has been a non-surgical option in the U.S. for 20 years. Contrary to traditional treatments, SoftWave requires no anesthesia or numbing agents, and with the patented SoftWave applicator, a deeper and larger area can be treated, up to seven by 12 centimeters. Another benefit for Dr. Weaver’s patients is actual treatment and recovery times are
significantly reduced, and the treatment is often long lasting. Studies show success rates of up to 60 to 90 percent.
“Typically, we can treat any area from the knee down.
In addition to the typical heel and foot ‘itis,’ — also known as soft tissue or musculoskeletal issues — I can also treat neuropathy, and have even treated rheumatoid arthritis. After an initial evaluation patients come to the office, usually once per week, and one SoftWave treatment only requires 15 minutes of a patient’s time. A full cycle of treatments takes between six and eight weeks, and benefits can last up to four months or more,” says Dr. Weaver. SoftWave is FDA approved for treatment of wounds and musculoskeletal problems and can be combined with other treatment modalities such as physical therapy, chiropractic, massage and soft tissue mobilization.
Dr. Weaver introduced SoftWave as a treatment option at Central Kansas Podiatry Associates six months ago. What patients appreciate most is avoiding surgery, shots or steroids. Treatments are painless and there are no side effects such as bruising or swelling. SoftWave treatments are not covered by insurance, but often the initial visit, evaluation, ultrasounds and x-rays are covered. Notably, for wound care such as a diabetic ulceration, venous ulceration or any wound on your foot, treatment is a covered expense for Medicare patients. For uncovered costs, patients often use their health savings or flex spending accounts to pay for SoftWave packages, which start as low as $400 for four treatments.
For more information about this innovative treatment modality, call Central Kansas Podiatry at 316.269.3338.
The most recent annual State of Mental Health Report shows Kansas to be dead last in the country — 51 out of 51 including the District of Columbia — in mental health in the United States.
The report is a comprehensive measure of criteria including health insurance that covers mental health care, the number of clinicians per capita, increases in mental illnesses across all age groups, and much more. And while it is a sad commentary for our state, it serves as a vital reminder that whatever has been happening to provide care clearly isn’t working.
A variety of explanations have been offered. “Well, it’s because we’re a rural state!” So are Vermont, Montana and Alabama. And they all scored higher. “It’s because of healthcare spending per capita!” Utah, Arizona and North Carolina all spend less and still rank higher. Mental Health Association (MHA) continues to work with elected officials on both the state and national level to remove bottlenecks to care, but this may be one of those situations where the limitations of public policy simply don’t provide the answers, and the reliance on our private partnerships will need to take center stage.
Companies are realizing more and more how the lack of healthcare for their employees hits their bottom-line productivity. Every employee you have in every company and every industry — myself included — costs you $7,000 every single year. Multiply that number by the size of your payroll or the number of employees on your team or in your department, and then decide whether or not you can afford to step up to help. And it’s not just money. Time, talent and treasure are all needed every day. Vehicles to transport our clients to medical appointments. Roofs to protect our veteran’s housing. Marketing firms to help us raise awareness of the issue. All investment can be used, and all of it makes Wichita a better place to live, earn, learn, play and pray.
To offer your support or to speak with someone at MHA about how we can serve your family or company, call 316.651.1241 or visit mhasck.org.
Do you struggle to understand conversations at home? At dinner parties? The theater? Socializing with friends and family? Do you struggle to hear the TV?
Then you are probably experiencing hearing loss. Even mild hearing loss can affect your ability to communicate, understand, and enjoy time with family and friends. Having fun with your friends and family is required for a healthy mind and body!
The Lancet Commission on Dementia Prevention and Intervention concluded that treating hearing loss is protective against dementia1. Hearing and socialization is simply good for your health!
Hearing loss may occur anywhere along the hearing pathway, and can be treated medically, surgically or with hearing aids.2 Whether your loss is mild or profound, or in one ear or two, there is a solution.
I know; nobody wants them! They come in several types, shapes and forms. The skinny: you don’t likely need that big clunky thing grandpa wore behind his ear. We can try to hide them if you want to be discreet, or we can make them purple if you want to stand out in the crowd!
The Lyric is a disposable hearing aid that is completely hidden in the ear canal. We swap it out for you in the office every few months and there are no batteries to worry about. It’s discrete and you can exercise, golf, shower, and do just about everything but submerge your head in water while using it.
Sometimes middle ear surgery can be performed so hearing aids aren’t necessary. This typically involves fixing a problem with the eardrum or hearing bones. Otosclerosis is a correctable form of hearing loss that often runs in families. The hearing loss is corrected with a stapedectomy, a short outpatient surgical
procedure to replace a poorly mobile stapes (stirrup) bone. This often obviates the need for a hearing aid.
Bone conduction hearing aids (BAHA) are surgical devices for people who can’t wear traditional hearing aids for a variety of reasons. This implant can be used for hearing loss in one or both ears and can bypass hearing loss due to problems with the ear canal, drum, or hearing bones. This outpatient surgery directly stimulates the inner ear (cochlea) and improves the ability to hear and understand in noisier environments. There is no in-the-ear component with this device since it is an implant.
The cochlear implant is a device that bypasses a poorly hearing inner ear (cochlea) and directly stimulates the hearing nerve. This device is typically a game changer for those with severe communication difficulties.
Cochlear implants have traditionally been for adults and children with bilateral severe to profound loss; however, implantation for hearing loss in one ear is becoming more common.
Our goal is to improve your quality of life! Contact us for an appointment.
Your hearing health is an insight into your overall well-being.
High blood pressure and heart disease are positively correlated with hearing loss.
Hearing loss is associated with impaired cognitive performance and an increase in dementia.
Prediabetics have a 30% higher rate of hearing loss.
Cigarettes, vaping, and smokeless tobacco increase the risk of hearing loss.
stomach, not being able to control your bowels. When they talk about being ‘dope sick,’ it’s terrible. It’s the most excruciating, nasty feeling in the world. And it lasts for weeks.”
Cerullo said his biggest obstacle to stopping was the impending withdrawals. “I was continuing to go down a very bad road,” he said. “It came to a breaking point. I finally told my doctor, ‘I think I’m addicted.’ My doctor cut me off.”
Without any resources or offers of help from his doctor, Cerullo knew he wouldn’t be able to kick his addiction alone. His online research pointed him in the direction of Dr. Greg Lakin at Center for Change in Wichita. His treatment at Center for Change included a prescription of Suboxone, a drug that blocks the effects of opioids, curbs cravings and stops the painful withdrawal symptoms. When used in combination with therapy and education, opioid addicts have great success in breaking the addiction cycle for good.
Jared Cerullo of Wichita has a message for anyone with an addiction to doctor-prescribed pain pills. “There is help available. You don’t have to suffer,” said the longtime journalist, news anchor and former Wichita City Council member. He knows all too well how difficult it is to be bound to medication, yet not know how or where to get help.
“Ten years ago I found myself between a rock and a hard place,” he said. “The stigma of being addicted is still bad today, but a decade ago it was even worse. I was afraid to tell my own doctor.”
Cerullo may be familiar to many Wichitans as a longtime TV and radio news anchor in Wichita. Today he provides news, weather and traffic for about 30 different radio stations nationwide from his home studio in south Wichita.
A bowling injury was what first sent Cerullo to the doctor in search of shoulder pain relief. “The doctor always told me I wasn’t bad enough to do surgery, so he started me on pain pills,” he said. “I wanted to continue bowling but I couldn’t bowl if I hurt, so the pills really helped.” Cerullo was soon taking pain pills daily. With time, his dependence on them increased — as did the number of pills he was taking each day. His doctor continued to prescribe the pain pills month after month, and Cerullo continued taking them.
“I was long past the point of being able to stop,” he said. “I had tried several times, but when you are down the path of having taken Percocet and Hydrocodone for six or seven years, there is no weaning off. Cold turkey is not possible.”
When he switched jobs to a manual labor position, he continued to increase his dosage to deal with the shoulder pain. “When you’re that deep into taking pills — 10, 12, 15 Percocets a day — if you stop taking them, the withdrawal symptoms are so severe: cold sweats, hot sweats, upset
“At that point in time Suboxone had just come on the market, and there were still a lot of questions about it,” he said. “But once I got on Suboxone I didn’t have to worry about withdrawal effects — and that was my biggest fear about getting off pain pills.”
Cerullo says Dr. Lakin and Center for Change saved his life. No more pills. No more withdrawal effects. “Instead of worrying about how many pills I was taking or if I was going to run out, I would think, what am I going to do today to be productive? That was a nice feeling.”
Today, he tells his story because he wants others to know there is hope. And he wants to remove the stigma around pain pill addictions. “When you think about being an addict, you might think of junkies and people shooting up heroin,” he said. “But a larger portion of this problem is everyday people: your friends, neighbors, family. It’s professionals, lawyers, attorneys, police officers. They are suffering because of these pills. I would highly recommend Dr. Lakin’s program to anyone who is struggling with this.”
Matching in style can also serve as a symbol of the special bond between moms and their kids. It’s a fun and heartwarming way to celebrate the unique connection and love shared between a mother and her child. It creates a sense of togetherness and allows kids to feel a sense of pride in matching their moms, and moms to share in the joy of seeing their children dressed in similar fashion. Plus, it makes for cute photo opportunities and lasting memories that families can cherish for years to come.
When it comes to selecting mommy-and-me outfits, it’s important to consider comfort and practicality. Kids need to move freely and comfortably in their clothes, and moms need to feel at ease in their outfits while taking care of their little ones. Opting for high-quality fabrics that are soft, breathable and durable can ensure that both moms and kids feel comfortable throughout the day. Additionally, choosing designs that are ageappropriate and suitable for the occasion can help create a polished and put-together look.
As fashion trends continue to evolve, the concept of mommy-and-me outfits has gained popularity among parents and children alike. The look involves coordinating or matching outfits between moms and their kids, creating a stylish and adorable aesthetic for both. From matching prints to coordinating colors, mommy-and-me fashion offers an opportunity for kids and moms to bond over fashion and express their unique style together.
One of the appealing aspects of the trend is the wide range of styles available, catering to various tastes and preferences. Whether it’s a casual day at the park or a special occasion, there are endless possibilities for matching outfits. For instance, moms and daughters can rock matching sundresses with floral prints, while moms and sons can coordinate with matching button-up shirts and shorts. The options are limitless and allow for creativity in styling.
One popular approach to mommy-and-me fashion is coordinating colors or complementary patterns. For example, moms and kids can wear outfits with matching color palettes, such as pastel hues or monochromatic looks. Alternatively, they can choose outfits with complementary patterns, such as stripes, polka dots or plaids, creating a cohesive and visually appealing ensemble. This can create a harmonious and coordinated look without necessarily wearing identical outfits.
This playful trend allows kids and moms to express their unique style while celebrating their special bond. It offers endless opportunities for creativity and fun, from matching prints to coordinating colors or patterns. Comfort and practicality are key considerations in selecting mommy-and-me outfits, and the options are vast, catering to different tastes and occasions.
So why not embrace the trend and create some fashionable memories with your little one? After all, matching in style can be a delightful way for kids and moms to bond, express their individuality, and create lasting memories together.
4730 E. Douglas 683.2411
CarolynSayresFineJewelry.com
Open Tues. - Sat.
316.440.0772
Location – Mark Arts
Photography - Darrin Hackney Photography
Models - Models and Images
Styling - Jody Klein and Amy Palser
Hair and Makeup - Crave Beauty Academy
Hair - Toyjaunna B, Samantha C, Jordan S Makeup - Kassie B, Lesly A, Yardira G
The twisting stickwork behind Paycie is the art of Patrick Doughtery, who combines carpentry skills, a love of nature and studies in art history and sculpture to create his one-of-a-kind pieces. Over the last 30 years he has created more than 300 monumentalscale works around the world. Over 100 Wichita-area volunteers helped Doughtery build his twisty, whimsical sculptures outside Mark Arts out of simple tree saplings. Learn more at stickwork.net or markarts.com.
The large-scale canvas behind Pam is the work of Wichita abstract expressionist painter and longtime art educator Charles Baughman, whose picturesque landscapes, birds, flowers, trees and clouds are brought to life with contrasting and harmonious colors and bold compositions. A selection of his works are being shown at Mark Arts in conjunction with the release of his artist book, “Splatter Scapes.” For more information visit charlesbaughman.com or markarts.com.
316.682.6784
Mark Arts was proud to feature American painter John Newsom’s show “Universal Frontier” through March.
The New York-based artist was born and raised in Hutchinson, Kansas, and the natural landscape by which he was surrounded as a child provided a well of inspiration from which he continues to draw. His large-scale canvases frequently place realistic winged creatures against impressionistic geometric abstract surroundings. Visit johnnewsom.info or markarts.com to learn more.
Sean-Carlo Prolago graduated in 1997 from The Wichita State University where he earned his degrees and also completed training as a physician assistant. Sean-Carlo began his profession by working rural medicine in Southeast Kansas and later returned to Wichita to earn over 20 years in the emergency room. In addition, he also spent several years training in hyperbaric medicine and wound care at Wesley Medical Center. Sean has joined the team at Innovative Vein after completing extensive training, evaluation and education from certified phlebologist, Dr. Paul Cheatum, MD. He works closely with his patients to see that they achieve appropriate treatment and results. Sean-Carlo works primarily at the West Wichita location, but also travels to the Emporia and Dodge City locations.
Sometimes Mother’s Day can feel a little overwhelming. So many core emotions and memories are associated with this holiday, which can be a good and a bad thing. It can be difficult to know how to celebrate the mother figures in your life — especially the ones who give so much of themselves on a daily basis. This one day of the year should be a pinnacle of celebration for one of the true heroes of our society: moms. Flowers and balloons are fun, chocolate and sweets are a welcome choice, and of course, surprise gifts can be a nice surprise. However, what many moms really want is the gift of quality time over a delicious meal, particularly if they do not have to cook or wash dishes afterwards!
What better way to give Mom her wish than at one of the many excellent brunch spots in Wichita? Whether you are celebrating at a build-your-own-omelet bar, with a tasty mimosa or bloody Mary, or the invaluable gift of uninterrupted time together, brunch is never the wrong choice. Start Mother’s Day off on a high note, and treat all the mommas to a delicious brunch.
One thing that Wichita can boast about is an amazing variety of incredible restaurants, from high class, to theme oriented, to homestyle. Many of these gourmet spots also offer Sunday brunch and buffets. The list below includes both restaurants that serve brunch daily and others that offer brunch for special occasions or weekends. Be sure to plan accordingly by calling ahead or making a reservation for your party, and as always, treat the restaurant and its employees with respect and gratitude, especially as they serve your family on a holiday.
Moms are the unseen heroes of our society, and sometimes all they want is some appreciation for the effort and energy they pour into their family, whether with a tasty brunch, or even a kind word. Be sure to find a way to tell your favorite mom how much you appreciate her!
The Beacon
The Belmont
Crutch & Biscuit Co.
Doo-Dah Diner
Egg Cetera
First Mile Kitchen
Harvest Kitchen/Bar at Hyatt Regency Wichita
HomeGrown Wichita
Jimmie’s Diner
Magnolia Cafe
Newport Grill
Public at the Brickyard
6S Steakhouse
Stearman Field Bar & Grill, Benton
The Sweet Spot
Twelve Restaurant & Bar
Vora Restaurant European
Wine Dive + Kitchen
YaYa’s Euro Bistro
Q. Why and when did you start Keto On With Kerri?
A. I started this business as a hobby in late 2019, to provide low-carb and sugar-free cheesecakes to those who desired them. In early 2020, the hobby quickly moved to a full-time business, which now includes a full-service bakery, meal prep service, and shelf stable products, all of which fit into a low-carb, gluten-free and sugarfree, or keto, lifestyle.
Q. What motivated you to start Keto On With Kerri?
A. I started my own journey with this lifestyle in 2019 and while I was thriving with it, I saw others were struggling to find sustainability in it due to the lack of availability of ready-made products. This lifestyle changed my health and life dramatically and I wanted others to experience that same improvement in their quality of life. You can find more about my personal story on our website at ketoonwithkerri.com.
Q. Do you like to involve your family or friends with your business?
A. Absolutely, my family and friends are 100 percent behind my passion for this business. My business was not immune to the employment difficulties caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, and if my friends and family had not lent helping hands, I would have had to close as well. I currently work 15–19 hour days, and it’s never enough, even with outside help.
Q. What kind of impact do you hope your business can make?
A. We hope to show and educate individuals who live a keto lifestyle that they do not have to settle or sacrifice foods that they love. To see faces light up with delight and pleasure when they taste my foods is the ultimate goal.
Q. What is the best part about running Keto On With Kerri?
A. Our favorite kind of day at Keto On With Kerri is when we receive customers who are considering this lifestyle because of certain health issues or needs, and I am able to spend time on the sales floor providing samples and education. We have the best customers, and they are all important! We love it when we get to educate someone on this lifestyle and then see how it changes their lives, especially when they come in and share their personal journey and successes.
Q. Do you view keto more as a diet or a lifestyle?
A. Keto is not a diet, but a lifestyle. So many make that mistake and go back to eating sugar and bad carbohydrates after losing a ton of weight, only to find they end up gaining more than they lost. However, living this lifestyle does not mean you can never have your favorites ever again. We teach classes on how moderation is possible, and teach how to monitor the way different foods affect your body internally.
Q. What would say to someone who is skeptical about the keto diet, and how would you educate them on the benefits?
A. I love talking to skeptics about this lifestyle. I would suggest they research food history, and the peerreviewed, qualified studies that show how a keto lifestyle is the prime source for gut health and healing of almost all health issues, and also the way processed foods were initially introduced and “healthified” in the US. Keto is the direct response to this unhealthy movement, and you can find more information about this on my website!
WHERE
Keto On With Keri
619 N. Rock Rd. Derby, KS 67037
316.371.1302
ketoonwithkerri.com
Hours: Tues.–Sat., 8 a.m.–7 p.m. · Sundays, 10 a.m.–5 p.m
She wasn’t actually born a coal miner’s daughter like singer Loretta Lynn, but the mere fact she has familial ties to a coal-mining town isn’t lost on Wichita singer/actress Kim Dugger Attwater.
A professional singer, musician and actor who has made a career out of showcasing her diamond voice, the former Miss Kansas believes it was the musical talents inherited from her grandmother, Oma Dugger, a native of coal-mining haven Harlan, Kentucky, that graced her with the ability to excel in numerous professional musical pursuits. Those have included stints with several rock bands, lead roles in multiple musical theater productions, big-band singing in Dallas, jingles sung for national commercial campaigns, and performance work in Nashville and Branson.
A child prodigy who began singing and playing piano at age 4, it was those inherent abilities that opened doors for her both professionally and at home, where playing piano and singing afterdinner songs with her father, Paul, provided a clear path around doing the dishes – an out frowned upon by her three older brothers.
“God gives each of us gifts,” she said. “My gift is singing and I love it. It was my major in college and my hobby, and I’m glad I’ve been able to use the gifts I’ve been given.” A native of Wichita, Attwater performed her first vocal solo at age 7 at First Bible Baptist Church in Wichita.
Among her live musical performances were shows at the Crown Uptown Theatre, Forum Theater, Music Theater of Wichita, and Shoji Tabuchi Theatre in Branson, where she served in roles as musical director and assistant director. Her performance resume includes concerts with Tuxedo Junction, a 20-piece bigband ensemble based in Dallas, and regional touring rock band experiences with Annie Up and Three Ring Circus.
“My major in college was classical, but that isn’t my favorite style to sing,” she said. “Brought up in the church, I love to sing gospel, country, rock, and musical theater.” Her musical career has taken a back seat during the past year while she helps care for her parents, Paul (now deceased) and Marilyn. She also serves on the Friends University board while co-heading its $12 million capital campaign for her alma mater.
She continues to perform at special events and college athletic games around Wichita, ducking in the occasional appearance at professional sporting events. In April, she returned to Kansas City’s Kauffman Stadium to perform the national anthem during the Royals season-opening homestand, reprising her first national anthem appearance there in 1991 while wearing her Miss Kansas crown. “I swell up with pride every time I sing our national anthem,” she said.
Upcoming anthem performances on her docket include May 2 at the Wichita State–Kansas State baseball game, and June 22 at Riverfront Stadium for the Wichita Wind Surge vs. Arkansas game.
Supported in her craft by her husband, Paul Attwater, and four grown stepsons, her biggest fans may be her mother, who encourages her to record an album, and Maggie, her golden retriever who seldom misses the opportunity to join her in song during home rehearsals. “I have to stop singing because I’m laughing so hard,” she said. “I don’t know if she loves it or hates it, but she sits or lays beside the piano and chimes in.”
Kim continues to look forward to new opportunities to sing, whether before live audiences or recording some of her favorite songs. She’s motivated by sharing her voice whenever possible and by encouraging young people to explore their own musical talent. “I was honored to sing the national anthem again for the Royals, and my fingers are crossed that they will ask me back again.”
Agritourism is all about finding the roots that connect us all.
Is it a trendy new event venue? Is it an Airbnb? Is it a community space to showcase Wichita’s artistic and musical talent? All of the above, and more. The Hudson St. Francis is the brainchild of Blake Guthrie, who also owns The Hudson, along with wife Lauren. Although The Hudson, a popular wedding venue, is just one block away, Guthrie says with the new location, “We’re trying to be more than just an event space, which is why we did the Airbnbs. As well, we want to be a staple for downtown without any boxes — not just corporate, not just weddings.”
No boxes, that is, except for the boxcar. Now converted into one of three Airbnbs on premises, it’s splashed with eye-popping art, a piece of Commerce Street history. “That’s the work of local artists over the years, we didn’t touch it.” Guthrie said, “People have just been coming by and tagging it for 15 years.”
The Hudson St. Francis is now booking the venue space for concert pregame parties, showers, corporate events and any gathering of 75 to 100 people. In addition to the bar, event space and Airbnbs, there’s an outdoor patio complete with fire pit and cafe lights, and the rooftop deck offers an “incredible” view of downtown and the arena. Their soft opening in March boasted a local musician, and Guthrie envisions hosting more public events to showcase Wichita culture. “We want to be a space where people can explore their creativity.”
To book a private event at The Hudson St. Francis go to www. thehudsonict.com/stfrancis. The three Airbnbs are listed at Airbnb.com. For upcoming public events follow their socials: @TheHudsonStFrancis on Facebook and Instagram.
When you want to get your hamachi on, there’s a new place in town. “A delicious sushi place in the center is something that Wichitians want,” says Andy Hubbard, general manager at Sushiya in Old Town Square. The new restaurant continues the 27-year tradition established by Hana Cafe, which was purchased by the owners of Wasabi East.
While the new owners have completely rebranded and remodeled, Hana regulars will be happy to see they’re also continuing the beloved mango salmon roll (a sweeter special roll) and the bibimbap, a Korean dish that comes with your choice of protein, plus veggies, rice and gochujang sauce. And Wasabi East fans will enjoy favorites from that restaurant, including the popular deep fried Crazy Stonehenge roll. The large menu also features everything from edamame and poke salad to yakisoba and noodle bowls. There are several pages of sushi rolls — baked, deep fried, and “on fire” — not to mention sushi burritos.
Sushiya patrons will be greeted by a more open and airy space with exposed ceilings and hanging lamps in a modern and clean ambiance, according to Hubbard. “We also have seating at the bar and sushi area, so guests can have a good conversation with the bartender or watch our extremely talented sushi chefs work their magic,” he says. Sushiya offers signature drinks such as the Red Lotus and Dragon Mist, in addition to beer, wine, sake and cocktails. Watch throughout the week for various drink specials. “We only see positive developments in the future of Old Town,” says Hubbard, “and are excited to grow with it.”
For more information, go to sushiyawichita.com or find them on Facebook and Instagram: @sushiyawichita.
Photography by Michael Carroll Jr.In Nebraska, we believe that only boring people get bored. So we invent our own fun. Like when we realized that a livestock tank would float, and thought, “It’s a boat.” Soon, “tanking” became the preferred method of meandering down our slow-moving rivers. It might not be everybody’s cup of tea, but if it sounds as good to you as it did to us, go to VisitNebraska.com for a free Travel Guide. And welcome aboard.
Get ready for in-theater movie experiences that will be hotter than the weather, as funny as your new friends, as exciting as your summer adventures, and as romantic as your summer dreams. This list highlights a few blockbusters releasing this month, so start conditioning those popcorn-lifting biceps now!
May 5, 2023; PG-13; directed by James Gunn, Marvel Studios; starring Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Vin Diesel and Dave Bautista
In this latest installment of Marvel Studios’ interdimensional romp, Marvel Studios teases the film’s premise: “Still reeling from the loss of Gamora, Peter Quill must rally his team to defend the universe and protect one of their own. If the mission is not completely successful, it could possibly lead to the end of the Guardians as we know them.”
The misfit group of mercenaries returns once again to protect what they love. We can expect the same feelings as when watching the previous “Guardians of the Galaxy” volumes: comedy, drama, romance, and a whole lot of action.
May 12, 2023; PG-13; directed by James C. Strouse, Sony Pictures; starring Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Sam Heughan and Celine Dion Celine Dion stars in her first film role, and has recorded multiple new songs for “Love Again,” according to Sony Pictures. “Coping with the loss of her fiancé, Mira Ray sends a series of romantic texts to his old cell phone number, not realizing it was reassigned to journalist Rob Burns. Rob becomes captivated by the honesty of her words in the beautifully constructed texts. When he’s assigned to write a profile of superstar Celine Dion, he enlists her help to figure out how to meet Mira in person — and win her heart.”
In this romantic comedy, where Dion plays none other than herself, you will be guaranteed to have a new look on the mysterious concept of love. Just watching the trailer will make you want to see the movie for answers to the questions it leaves open to the viewer. What will happen in the end?
May 26, 2023; PG-13; directed by Laura Terruso, Lionsgate Films; Starring Sebastian Maniscalco and Robert De Niro
Robert De Niro plays an old-school immigrant father in this comedy; from Lionsgate Films: “Encouraged by his fiancée, a man and his father spend the weekend with her wealthy and exceedingly eccentric family. The gathering soon develops into a culture clash, allowing father and son to discover the true meaning of family.”
This film is an incredibly hilarious story about two opposing worlds coming together with a redemptive ending. Two families that could not be farther apart in views and life in general get together due to a relationship between their children. The main redemption happens between the father and his son as they learn more about each other, although they’re somewhat forced to.
You might also want to check out these upcoming summer flicks: “Fast X,” “Kandahar,” “Hypnotic,” “The Little Mermaid,” and “Book Club: The Next Chapter.”
“Every chapter has a printable chart or table that provides a quick reference to information,” McMahon says. “Planting and harvesting calendars advise gardeners how and where to plant crops and offer spacing and timing tips to encourage maximum success. Common concerns are addressed including weather conditions, soil challenges and more.”
In Kansas, more than $25 million worth of vegetables are grown in home gardens, according to the Kansas Garden Guide itself. This produce is raised in small and large individual gardens, as well as those with backyard farmsteads. According to McMahon, “We’re seeing a greater number of urban farms and gardeners who grow their crops to sell.” The Kansas Garden Guide continues to be an excellent resource for those wishing to cultivate a garden or even just grow food they love.
K-State Research and Extension — Sedgwick County is an excellent resource for gardeners as well. Experts are available to field a wide range of questions. People may call, email photos or bring in plants or crops they are having issues with for consultation. Often people are able to quickly receive helpful information and advice.
expanded guide for every level of vegetable gardener — from novices and newbies to those who have spent a lifetime cultivating the soil and seasonally reaping a bountiful harvest. Rebecca McMahon, Kansas State expert shares this: “The expanded guide takes into consideration the realities of a modern gardener. It’s highly relevant to anyone seeking information regarding herb and vegetable gardening. It appeals to new gardeners as well as experts looking to improve their approach.”
The guide’s collaborators contributed their expertise in many areas, but it’s also a direct reflection of McMahon’s background in horticulture as well as field experience as a lifelong gardener. After fifteen years of working with a team at the Sedgwick County Extension office as a horticultural agent, she accepted a position with K-State Research and Extension as their local food system program administrator.
Kansas Garden Guide
The 198-page guide is available as a free download: bookstore.ksre.ksu.edu/pubs/S51.pdf
K-State Research and Extension – Sedgwick County 7001 W. 21st St. N. Wichita, KS 67205
316.660.0100 sedgwick.k-state.edu
Garden Hotline
316.660.0190
What makes the Kansas Garden Guide remarkable lies in its accessibility as an online resource as well as its user-friendly design. A beautifully laid out table of contents lists everything from planning a garden and considering bed design, to planter and crop options, to tips about navigating pitfalls like pest infestation and inclement weather conditions. The guide offers ideas for vertical planting and raised beds, for soil fertilizers and composting, as well as how to plant, cultivate and harvest nearly every kind of vegetable or herb.
sgemghotline@gmail.com
Monday–Friday
9 a.m.–noon, 1–4 p.m.
K-State Horticulture Resource Center hnr.k-state.edu/extension/horticulture-resource-center
‘In Kansas, more than $25 million worth of vegetables are grown in home gardens.’
— The Kansas Garden Guide
The Farmer’s Almanac bears a long history of forecasting seasonal conditions. Based on a proprietary formula that relies on a number of factors, including the moon, its early predictions include a summer much like 2022: hot and dry. That poses many challenges for those hoping to grow flowering plants in pots, beds and boxes this spring and summer. Yet with specific focus in the areas of flower selection, irrigation and fertilizer, beautiful flowers can grow all season.
Consulting experts is one way to ensure success. Bloom KS owner and master gardener Janet Harding creates visual masterpieces for porches, patios, pool areas, decks and landscape beds for people to enjoy. She is also a brilliant resource for questions and tips about plantings. At the heart of flourishing flowers, she suggests three key components: “ample water, appropriate fertilizer and obtaining the right plants for your areas and containers. With these in place, flowering plants will thrive.”
Harding shares this advice. “If you don’t have a hose or watering system that waters your pots, think about adding an olla to guarantee continuous water to your plants.” An olla watering system is an inexpensive method of keeping plants irrigated. The slow release of water around the plants keeps them hydrated yet conserves water. Plant roots grow around the olla which allows for even and consistent watering. An ancient method discovered long ago by people living in arid regions, it can still be utilized effectively as a water source. Bloom’s ollas can be purchased through their website beginning in early May at bloomsks.com.
Harding offers several tips for conditioning the soil: “Start with a root stimulator when you plant and follow with a fertilizer. This ensures the blooms remain enriched and healthy. Finally, condition your soil.” She recommends Blooms’ proprietary brand, Garden’s Gold (available at Stutzmans); Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Flower Food; Dr. Earth Root Zone Starter Fertilizer; Jobe’s Organic Rose & Flower Fertilizer as well as many others.
“If you think your soil is lacking in something, take a sample to a local extension service.” Harding adds. “They can test your soil and provide a report showing what is missing, along with suggestions for how to best fix the problem.” The K-State Research and Extension office in Sedgwick County also staffs a hotline at 316.660.0190 to assist with an array of questions.
As we are expecting warm weather, choose flowers that will tolerate heat. Harding recommends “zinnias, marigolds, sedums and grasses since they generally thrive in high temperatures.”
Flowering vincas also thrive in hot, sunny areas. Typically drought resistant, their blooms remain beautiful in any well-draining soil. They are low maintenance (no deadheading required). Keep them well watered, as one missed day in high temperatures quickly diminishes the vinca with wilting and withering.
Bloom KS will assess a customer’s soil, and with a knowledge and understanding of how flowers respond to certain conditions, can make your flower pots amazing. Harding also recognizes colleagues in her area of expertise who are happy to guide novices through the planning process: “My favorite is Stutzmans. They are quite good at recognizing what will happen each year with the weather and plant accordingly. Meagan in Derby and Julie at 21st and Webb are absolutely the best at offering plants that will thrive in these hot summers.”
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