SPLURGE!316 May 2024

Notes From the Publisher & Staff

Take Our Keeper Quiz!

In celebration of its 50th birthday, here are 10 questions about Wichita’s Keeper of the Plains. How much do you know about the captivating monument, its rich history and remarkable symbolism? Answers are on page 9.

1. The Keeper of the Plains was created by artist Blackbear Bosin, who was a descendant of what two Native American tribes?

2. The statue stands at a site considered sacred by the Native American tribes that inhabited the region at the confluence of what two rivers in downtown Wichita?

3. How often are the ring-of-fire pits that encircle the base of the statue lit?

4. The Keeper of the Plains stands at what height?

5. The sculpture is made of what material that develops a rust-like patina over time, giving it a weathered appearance that blends harmoniously with the natural surroundings?

6. The statue represents the unity of the Plains tribes, with the Keeper holding aloft what sacred object that symbolizes peace, strength and honor?

7. At the base of the Keeper of the Plains, there are how many large steel panels that rotate, each depicting different aspects of Native American culture and history?

8. The Keeper of the Plains was dedicated in a ceremony attended by thousands of people, including representatives from many Native American tribes, on May 18 of what year?

9. The site underwent a major renovation which included the addition of a pedestrian bridge to improve access to the monument and enhance its visibility in what year?

10. What building adjacent to the Keeper of the Plains features exhibits and educational programs dedicated to preserving and celebrating Native American culture and heritage?

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

Vice President Amy Palser - amy@splurgemag.com

Associate Publisher Kelsey Ralston - kelsey@splurgemag.com

Editor Karen Long - proofing@splurgemag.com

Account Executives Kim Azaria - kim@splurgemag.com

Holly Bump - holly@splurgemag.com

Debi Devor-Mullins - debi@splurgemag.com

Dawn Tucker - dawn@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, Caroline Jones, Dawn Tucker

Guest Columnists Joseph Spaniol, Amy Sprole

Fashion Photography Darrin Hackney

Local Faces Photography Michael Carroll Jr.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

8 Keeper’s 50th Birthday

A symbol of rich cultural heritage and unity, the history of the Keeper of the Plains is also the story of Native American tribes fighting for a space to call their own.

16 Kansas Prairie Courses Venture farther afield than the local city golf courses and you’ll be rewarded with everything from stunning natural scenery to an awardwinning Scottish-linksstyle course.

26 Mommy Makeover

If you still have a baby “bump” long after the baby has been born, and diet and exercise have no effect, check out this combination of procedures at Plastic Surgery Center.

60

Cinco de Mayo Fiesta

Celebrate Mexican Independence Day in your own casa with these recipes for Coconut Margaritas, Pollo Pizza, Street Tacos, Margarita Cheesecake Bites and more!

64 Golden Age of Pickleball

The local senior leagues in Wichita have lured players like 95-year-old Don Roe into a low-impact sport that keeps them strong, flexible, mobile and socially active.

Our cover model Hannah Ramahi is a descendant of Blackbeard Bosin, the artist who created the Keeper of the Plains.

Photography: Darrin Hackney Photography

Location: Keeper of the Plains

24 - Organization Meets Style

50 - Athena Jewelry, Rich in Tradition

74 - Designing with Dawn

Photo by Darrin Hackney

She knows the Wichita real-estate scene backwards and forwards. She is a woman of integrity, is honest, and wi level with you.

She gained our trust from the start and then just blew us away during negotiations.

She was ALWAYS on our side and we can’t thank her enough.

Celebrating the Keeper of the Plains 50 Years Watching Over Wichita

Written by John Huthmacher

Conceived to symbolize and promote prayerful unity among the indigenous tribes in the area, the Keeper of the Plains statue continues to hold out a welcoming olive branch to all who set eyes on it today.

First appearing on the grounds of Mid-America All-Indian Center (now MidAmerica All-Indian Museum), the original statue design conceived by artist, muralist and designer Francis Blackbear Bosin evolved from some six 10-to-12 foot mobile works of art into the five-ton, 44-foot-tall steel sculpture that has become the most recognizable landmark in Wichita, standing stately at the intersection of the Big and Little Arkansas Rivers.

In celebration of its 50th year, the community will host a birthday party dedication, Party for the People, on May 18. Hosted by the Bosin Society, City of Wichita, Sedgwick County, and other sponsors, the free all-day event will feature a powwow, a rededication ceremony, Native performances, Native youth and adult art exhibits, free museum admission, food trucks, outdoor games and activities, and a fireworks show.

“We are excited to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Keeper of the Plains, as we honor the rich cultural heritage and history of Wichita and its Indigenous roots,” said Jemelle Holopirek, director of public relations for Visit Wichita. “The Keeper stands as a symbol of unity and reverence for our community and the Native American traditions that shaped our city.”

Virginia Susan “Sue” Seal is a retired ethnologist and Wichita State graduate who worked alongside her uncle Blackbear Bosin in his souvenir shops in Wichita. A native of Redstone, Oklahoma, the now-retired 76-year-old was among the Kiowa and Comanche tribes who traveled in search of gainful employment during the early 1950s with their families to Planeview, a community in Wichita that came into being during World War II as temporary housing for more than 20,000 defense workers. Her mother, Betty Nixon, served on the board responsible for bringing the Indian Center into existence.

“At that point, it was all about providing for their families,” Seal said. “My uncle was an artist in his home life who came for work and worked at Boeing for a while doing graphic design. Eventually, his desire to create art led him to leave his job and strike out on the road to sell his paintings, doing the majority of his transactions with souvenir shops.”

As the fledgling community of Planeview grew, most of the families living there purchased modest homes and settled in the Quonset hut structures located there. Initially, many of them shared homes, Seal said.

“There was a dwelling on each end of the house,” she said. “Sometimes two or three families lived in one half, two or three in the other half.

The bonds that existed between the various tribes flourished, she said. Apache, Kiowa, Comanche, Wichita, and other natives lived together in harmony, despite the cultural differences between them.

Photography by Taylor Hunt

But while the neighborhood climate seemed at peace, something was indeed missing from the picture. The spirit to gather and celebrate their cultures was strong among residents, but there was simply no designated place in town to do so. A few area churches would lend out their basements for such meetings, but those spaces were cramped and unaccommodating. That’s when the need to build an Indian center for gatherings became imminent.

“Natives in Wichita recognized we didn’t have a place to dance or get together to celebrate,” Seal said. “They had nothing for Native Americans. That’s when we started holding meetings at my parent’s home to promote an Indian center.”

Tasked as secretary, Seal said organizers of the gatherings chipped in to provide her with a tape recorder to track the minutes of each meeting. Eventually, their persistence led them to persuade Wichita city officials to build the native center.

“It took years for this dream to come true,” she said. “We needed a mutual place for everyone to dance and share their culture. Not all tribes are exactly alike.”

It was in that spirit of unity that the first Keeper of the Plains statues were born.

“The first statue was at the Indian Center set up by itself,” Seal said. “It was small and was only up for about 1 ½ years. At one time there were three smaller ones around the Indian Center.”

The statue as it stands today was designed by Bosin in 1968 at the behest of Kansas Gas and Electric Company. Part of a beautification project, it was earmarked to be placed at the confluence of the Big and Little Arkansas Rivers on land owned by KG&E. Funding shortages delayed the project’s completion until May 18, 1974. Prior to its completion, the sculpture was adopted as the bicentennial symbol

of the Wichita community, leading to financial support from the Wichita City Commission, State Bicentennial Commission, and Quivira Council of Boys Scouts of America.

As part of a subsequent beautification project in 2006, the City of Wichita elevated the Keeper onto a 30-foot rock and added bridges and a plaza area. Facing east toward the rising sun, the structure stands on a large rock with a wooden door image bearing a turtle cut into it.

From its conception, Bosin’s iconic statue was intended to promote a spirit of unity among area tribes, Seal said. The subject’s posture with hands held high to the heavens symbolizes a call for spiritual union within the community.

“In the drawing itself, he knew that gesture was going to have meaning,” she said. “That’s why his (the sculpture’s) hands are up. He is praying for peace and goodwill for the people of Wichita. When you pull that many people together, for us, that’s a big thing, because we all have different beliefs.

“The statue is there for all Native people and those who care about them. As my uncle would say to me, ‘We were here first. This is our home.’ ”

Party for the People

May

18, 2024

Mid-America All-Indian Museum

The 50th anniversary for the Keeper of the Plains will be an all-day celebration. There will be a park run and a rededication ceremony in the morning and a powwow and festival in the afternoon, including outdoor games and activities, food trucks, Native American art exhibits, and ending with fireworks. This is a free, family-friendly event you won’t want to miss! For complete schedule, go to visitwichita.com and search “Party for the People.”

The late Blackbear Bosin, the artist who created the Keeper of the Plains, works on a painting that can be seen today at the Mid-America All-Indian Museum (file photo courtesy Mid-America All-Indian Museum).

Photography by Taylor Hunt

Written by Caroline Jones

“We know that cardiovascular death is still preeminent in our country. That’s what we die of. The focus on hypertensive care is really a focus on community health.”

Nearly half of American adults have high blood pressure, otherwise known as hypertension, and many don’t even know they have it. Terry Klein and his team at AMR hope to find a safer and more effective method for managing your high blood pressure and decreasing your risk for cardiovascular disease so that you can enjoy a happier and healthier lifestyle.

Q. What is high blood pressure?

A. High blood pressure is a common condition that affects the body’s arteries. If you have high blood pressure, the force of the blood pushing against the artery walls is consistently too high, and the heart has to work harder to pump normal amounts of blood. In this case, we describe high blood pressure as a negative determinant of cardiovascular disease that we have control over, as opposed to a problem like genetic disease. Of the things that can be controlled, changed and managed, hypertension has the highest cardiovascular risk factor, leading to complications such as heart attack, stroke, kidney disease and peripheral vascular disease.

Q. Who is eligible for this study?

A. We are looking for men and women 18 years and over who are high-risk hypertensive patients. Many high-risk candidates will have had cardiovascular compromise at some point. These people will also be taking between two and four of the standard hypertension therapies without seeing their blood pressure go down very much. If you are a person with high blood pressure who is medically unstable, or with alternative problems causing high blood pressure (such as an endocrine problem), you are probably not eligible for this study.

Q. What makes this study necessary when there are already medications for high blood pressure?

A. Usually, a high blood pressure medication responds to the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), which is a complex system of hormones, proteins and enzymes that is essential for long-term blood pressure regulation. In the RAAS, there is a protein produced by the liver that can have a negative effect on people with high blood pressure, and current medications help to decrease the effect of that protein. However, our bodies tend to compensate very quickly, and we will often see a wane in the effectiveness of those medications.

Q. What do you hope to see with this study?

A. In this study, we are continuing to evaluate a medication that blocks angiotensinogen, a protein nearer to the beginning of the cascade. If you think about it like a reverse March Madness bracket, angiotensinogen branches off one of

With Dr. Terry Klein Partner at Wichita Research Facility AMR

two ways, causing the body to metabolize and create another chemical (and another and another). By blocking the initial chemical, we block everything cascading from it that tends to increase blood pressure problems. So far, we’ve seen a reduction of angiotensinogen by greater than 90 percent, and that reduction has been sustained over a longer period. We are currently working on dosing and other delivery strategies so that it does not have to go through the digestive system.

Q. What will the study involve for participants?

A. Participants can expect an injection of this medication once a month or once every three months during a 12-month trial period. This study will occur at our El Dorado and East Wichita locations. As usual, this study will involve a pre-screening process, and members of the study can expect monetary compensation for their participation.

Q. What will the study look like?

A. The treatment period for this study will be 12 weeks, with an additional observation period of up to 8 weeks. This study will also include a work-in period to clarify that potential participants are meeting the criteria of the study. As is common with many other trials, participants will be required to keep electronic diaries to help us keep an accurate history of their progress.

How to Participate

To participate in AMR’s clinical trial for high blood pressure, call 316.867.6329.

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 $75,000 and Park Estate home sites beginning at $190,000.

& ANSWERS QUESTIONS

With Ryan Simpson, D.C., F.A.S.A. Founder, Back to Life Family Wellness

Building Bridges in Patient Care and Collaboration

You have a very unique story about getting into healthcare later in life. Please share with the readers.

A. My youngest daughter was born six weeks premature and spent three weeks in the NICU specialty care unit where she received incredible, lifesaving care. We were told at that time that she would likely have life-long lung problems and be on breathing treatments, as is normal for children born early. A pediatric chiropractor helped us see that there is a difference between doing what we needed to keep her alive and what it meant for her to thrive. We began going through some processes of letting her body heal and boosting her body to truly be well and, in time, she no longer needed breathing treatments. All of the antibiotics were stopped, and we were able to support her body naturally. None of this is to say that the care we received was inadequate, in fact we thank God every day for the doctors and nurses who kept our baby girl alive. It just provided a prospective shift for me on what is truly available out there in the world and art of healing. So, at 29 years old, I quit my comfortable government job and went back to school to become a Doctor of Chiropractic.

Q. Tell us about your clinic.

A. Currently we have t wo chiropractors and a massage therapist. We provide a wide range of services, including traditional chiropractic, low-force techniques, geriatric care and instrument-assisted soft tissue release. I also practice traditional Chinese acupuncture and cupping. We also do food sensitivity testing, Department of Transportation physicals, and sports physicals. Our massage therapist performs deep tissue, Swedish, prenatal, scalp, and facial massage. We believe that chiropractic is part of the healthcare equation; the body was gloriously and wonderfully made and interference in that design is where health begins to break down. Our goal every day is to empower our patients to take health back into their own hands so they may live their life to its fullest.

Q. What do you believe is missing in the Wichita healthcare community?

A. Collaboration. For far too long healthcare in Wichita has been segmented, because patients would see their primary care doctor and not want to tell their physical therapist or chiropractor, and vice versa. Patients are receiving alternatives to traditional allopathic medicine at rates higher than ever seen before. One of my driving forces is to bridge the gap between alternative medicine and traditional healthcare. This will require understanding from everyone involved.

Every day in my office, at least once a day, the words “my pride doesn’t live here” come out of my mouth. If one of my patients got better while seeing their primary care doctor, praise God, that was the goal. If one of my patients got better by seeing a physical therapist, so amazing, that was the goal. As long as it remains about our patients getting better, without bias on how that happened, the patient will always win.

Q. How can someone receive your services?

A. Give the office a call at 316.247.5458 or check out our website at b2lchiro.net. We also accept walk-ins. New patient appointments and massages can be scheduled online as well.

Alex Melugin, President of Phoenix Home Care and Hospice

Smile Makeover

Dr. Joseph Houlik

‘I was very self conscious about my teeth and always felt my teeth were the first thing people would notice about me.’

— Patient of Houlik Dentistry

Initial Consult

Our patient had waited decades before deciding to invest in her new smile. For her personalized treatment plan we first discussed what was most important to her. Next, we reviewed our options to replace her missing front tooth, fix any cavities and old restorations.Lastly, how could we accomplish all of this while transforming her smile?

Developing and Executing Our Smile Plan

After studying her photos and designing the blueprint for the new smile, it was time to begin executing our plan. We first performed a guided implant surgery to replace the missing front tooth. Then, we restored the top ten teeth, refining the color, length and shape of each individual tooth to have it all flow. We chose a color that had a natural appearance and didn’t draw too much attention.

Patient Testimonials

“I smile more and feel like I make a better first impression when meeting new people. I feel more confident.”

“Dr. Houlik is literally the best. He wants what is best for you as a patient and is very conscientious about doing the right thing for you. He was so particular and careful throughout the process of fixing my smile.”

There are two kinds of people in this world. The ones who think Nebraska is nothing more than a 77,000-square-mile cornfield, and the ones who don’t. We find that second group to be a lot more interesting, and are comforted by the knowledge that there are people willing to look deeper to discover what makes this place so special. We’re not trying to convince everyone. Just you. So go to VisitNebraska.com and be the kind of person who gets a free Travel Guide.

GOLF ON THE RANGE

Written by Alexis Evans

Once you’ve hit the many amazing golf courses within the city limits of Wichita, why not make a quick trek to hit other nearby greens. Wichita’s outlying cities boast their own beautiful and established golf courses, which highlight the natural Kansas landscape, allowing golfers to get out and relax on the course! Perfect for golfers of all backgrounds and ages, beginners and pros, casual and competitive — there is no shortage of golfing opportunities in the area.

Andover

Andover Municipal Golf Course is well known for being highly accessible to golfers from all levels. Established in 1988, it is first and foremost a community course — even offering availability to kids 12 and under (with supervision), with a goal to remain “very user friendly at working people’s prices.”

1208 W. Hwy 54, Andover KS 67002 | 316.733.8070 | andovergolf.com

Flint Hills National Golf Club is ideal for golfers looking for a more exclusive experience. Recognized as a “world-class golf experience,” this membershiponly course is designed by renowned golf course designer Tom Fazio, and is aimed toward those who share the “commitment to the highest standards of sportsmanship.” Visit the website for more information about how to become a member.

1 Flint Hills National Drive, Andover, KS 67002 | 316.733.7272 | flinthillsnational.com

Terradyne Country Club is a prime and beautiful club for those who are “ready to enjoy life at its finest at the four-star, award-winning Scottish-links-style golf course.” Terradyne boasts all the amenities you’d expect in a country club, and the course has a reputation as a challenging and rewarding golfing opportunity for members. Visit the website for more membership information. 1400 Terradyne Drive., Andover, KS 67002 | 316.733.2582 | terradynecountryclub.com

Augusta

Augusta Country Club & Fitness was established in 1922, making it one of the area’s most storied courses. The site of many notable annual events and tournaments, it’s known for being a perfect blend of beauty, accessibility and difficulty. Follow their Facebook page for up-to-date event information, and visit their website for pricing and course info. 1610 Fairway Drive., Augusta, KS 67010 | 316.775.7281 | accgf.com

El Dorado

Prairie Trails Golf Course is ready for everyone to come check out their amazing course. Described on their website as the “best trails course in Kansas,” this course is an excellent opportunity for golfers of all experience levels, from beginner to expert. Complete with truly stunning natural scenery, this El Dorado course is a must-visit for residents of this area.

1100 Country Club Lane, El Dorado, KS 67042 | 316.321.4114 | prairietrailsgolf.com

Valley Center

Valley Point Golf Course is the perfect spot for those located north of Wichita to hit the greens. Conveniently located in Valley Center, this “non-traditional, nine-hole course is designed to accommodate every level of player, from beginners to seasoned ardent golfers.” Visit their website for more scheduling and rate information.

820 North Emporia, Valley Center, KS 67147 | 316.337.5402 | valleypointgolfcourse.com

Kansas Prairie Courses Known for Views, Variety and Friendliness

Newton

Sand Creek Station is an absolute must for every golfer. Though the course remains public, they “strive to offer an unmatched experience similar to a private setting.” This amazing course, featuring plenty of natural Kansas scenery, is also set to host the last ever USGA Amateur Public Links Championship. Make time to hit this amazing course on your next golf outing.

920 Meadowbrook Drive., Newton, KS 67114 | 316.284.6161 | sandcreekgolfclub.com

Pine Edge Golf Course is nestled in the Kansas countryside, boasting terrific views and well-groomed greens and fairways. Professionally-built and challenging, yet friendly, you’ll see why their favorite saying is, “Sharpen your wedge at Pine Edge.”

468 130th, Newton, KS 67114 | 620.747.0707 | Find Pine Edge Golf Course on Facebook

Cheney

Cherry Oaks Golf Course is a true prairie treasure. Offering expansive and beautiful views, this public course is owned and operated by the City of Cheney, making it highly accessible and accommodating. This fantastic course offers lessons and leagues for golfers of all professions and ages, including men’s, women’s, senior and youth. Be sure to visit the website for tee times and event information.

1119 N Main, Cheney, KS 67025 | 316.540.0133 | cherryoaksgc.com

Hesston

Hesston Golf Course has a noted philosophy: “Great golf, accessible to all.” This delightful Hesston course was designed with the customer’s preferences in mind. This walker-friendly course “provides a fair challenge for all playing abilities,” and is another excellent option for the Newton or Hesston golfing crowd, or anyone looking for a fun and accessible course to try out. Visit the website for more membership information.

520 Yost Drive, Hesston, KS 67062 | 620.327.2331 | hesstongolf.com

Derby

The Derby Golf & Country Club is the perfect spot for Derby residents to get their golf on (or one of the other many recreational activities available here.) This prairie-style course has the “experience of a split-personality course with the links-style openness of the higher-level holes, and the style of a traditional inland course on the wooded holes.” This membership-only club has no shortage of sought-after Kansas charm and natural beauty.

2600 Triple Creek Drive, Derby, KS 67037 | 316.788.3070 | derbygolfcc.com

Hidden Lakes Golf Course is a wonderful challenge for golfers of all abilities. With newly renovated facilities — including a practice range, chipping green, practice bunker and practice greens — this long-standing range offers some of the finest golfing opportunities in the area. Established in 1958, this privately owned public golf course is a great option for golfers of all abilities.

6020 S. Greenwich Rd., Derby, KS 67037 | 316.788.2855 | hiddenlakesgolfcourse.com

WICHITA OPEN MASTERS PARTY

Hinkle Law Offices

Sean Bateman, Jessica McDowell, Tyler Nordman and Cyle Barriwell

Susan and Frank Shoffner, Rob Patton and Mike Herd

Melissa NeVak, Amy Peterson, Trisha Richmeier and Joy Miller

Mark Ballenger, Joe Samia and Todd Anciaux

Stephanie Kuhlman, Lori Dean, Anne Pleviak, Melissa Smith and Madison Schulte

Mark Malony, Bruce Witt and Greg Young

Dusty Buell, Kelli Elmore, Amy and Brian Palser, Seth Nesmith and Jacob Liles

Shane Whitmer, Jon Rainbolt, Mary Moore, Jacob Crouse and Betty Johnston

Troy Jordon and Bruce Witt

Rich Trease and Joe Surmeier

Matt Schulte, Seth Nesmith and Matt Jacobs

Joe and Teresa Samia, Joe and Missy Surmeier

•

•

•

•

•

• Are you

• Are your erections less strong?

• Have you noticed a recent deterioration in your ability to play sports?

• Are you falling asleep after

• Has there been a recent deterioration in your work performance?

Madison Terstriep

Do you have Leg pain or swelling?

Get your legs ready for Get your legs ready for summer! summer!

LYMPHATIC FORMULA

Clinically shown to support Venous Heath and Function

VEIN FORMULA

Clinically shown to support the Lymphatic System

Created by a Board-Certified Cardiovascular Surgeon Formulated and packaged in the USA in an FDA registered facility.

Over 30 years of Research on Flavonoids, such as Diosmin and Hesperidin, that are found in the brightly colored rinds of citrus fruits.

Vegetarian, Non-GMO, Gluten Free

No Tree nuts or peanuts, shellfish or Soy

EAGLE SCOUTS IN ACTION

Eagle Scout

Written by Caroline Jones

For Dr. Rick LeCompte, nothing is more important than perseverance.

Growing up in beautiful Cassville, Missouri, Dr. LeCompte got involved with Scouts from a young age. “It kind of starts off fast,” he said, thinking back through his Scouting journey.

“You go through a lot of badges quickly, but then as things get a little bit more difficult, and as time and life get in the way, you slow down. Eventually, a lot of people don’t persevere and they don’t finish; they don’t make it through to the Eagle. I was determined to make it all the way through, and it was a great experience for me.”

The lessons Dr. LeCompte learned by committing to reach the rank of Eagle Scout propelled him through a grueling doctorate program at the University of Texas, a fulfilling and exciting career as the H. Dene Heskett Chair in Finance at Wichita State University, and a very difficult 107-day hospitalization and rehabilitation process after he suffered a life-threatening cardiac arrest and stroke in January 2022.

“I was in there watching these patients in the hospitals, and I was worse off than a lot of them,” Dr. LeCompte said. “I was determined to get back to work. I couldn’t walk, I had all these things I couldn’t do, but I was determined to get back to work,

and my therapists at St. Teresa in Wichita and Madonna in Omaha pushed me through and helped me get to that point.”

Looking back on his road to a complete recovery, Dr. LeCompte said the encouragement he felt from his wife, children, his team of doctors, therapists and friends reminded him of the support system he saw and experienced as a Boy Scout.

“You can’t get through without that person, that support system. Everybody needs support, and Scouting is a very supporting thing. We had a lot of kids in Scouts you wouldn’t have thought would finish — but they did. A lot of them didn’t have much parental support, but their Scoutmaster and their assistant Scoutmaster supported them through, and they did it.”

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.

Organization Meets…

Style

Written by Julie Hying

Harmony Home Concepts

Do you want to free up time in your schedule? Would you like to feel more organized? Do you wish to easily add value to your home?

Harmony Home Concepts, owned and operated by Phil and Shelley Davis, has custom storage solutions that can help you experience the profound impact of an organized home. Their philosophy is rooted in the belief that a decluttered space enhances mental clarity, reduces stress and improves overall well-being. Harmony Home Concepts offers custom storage solutions for every area of the home, from the kitchen to the garage, helping individuals reclaim time and elevate their quality of life.

An efficient kitchen is vital to a functional household, according to The “Ultimate Home Organization Handbook” from Harmony Home Concepts. As the heart of the home, where meals are prepared and families gather, the kitchen should be a haven of order and tranquility. Harmony Home Concepts achieves this with innovative solutions such as slideout shelves and vertical spice racks that transform inaccessible cabinets into easily navigable spaces, ensuring that every utensil and appliance is accessible when needed.

In the bathroom, where days both begin and end, the importance of organization cannot be overstated. Harmony Home Concepts advocates for the use of smart storage solutions like slide-out shelving to maintain order among the myriad of products that typically fill these spaces. This organization streamlines morning and evening routines and keeps essentials within easy reach.

Similarly, an organized closet is key to beginning each day smoothly. By offering customized shelving and storage options, every item is made visually accessible and simplifies the process of choosing outfits and accessories. As Shelley suggests, “A clutter-free closet not only stores clothes but also calms your chaos, and contributes to a peaceful start to the day.”

The entryway or mudroom is the first impression of the home. Harmony Home Concepts illustrates the importance of this area being well-organized with hooks and shoe racks to prevent clutter from spreading throughout the house. Efficiently designed entryways ensure that everything has a designated spot, making these spaces both welcoming and functional for everyday use. Their closet systems can be used to create a custom entryway just for your space.

The garage, often a catchall for everything from tools to seasonal decor, can also be transformed under the guidance of Harmony Home Concepts. They implement customized storage solutions like shelves, cabinets and slat walls to neatly organize various items, making them easily accessible while freeing up space for vehicles or hobbies. Additionally, Phil and Shelley advocate for a “seasonal sweep,” a decluttering session to remove items no longer wanted or in use, ensuring the garage remains a practical and orderly component of the home.

Harmony Home Concepts is committed to transforming homes into serene and functional sanctuaries. Their “Ultimate Home Organization Handbook” shares ideas to make your home more organized. By integrating custom storage solutions and slide-out shelves, they not only maximize space but also significantly add to the value of your home. These thoughtful designs ensure easy access and optimal organization, making daily routines more efficient and your home more appealing. To elevate your living space, download the handbook from their website at harmonyhomeconcepts.com, and start your journey toward a beautifully organized home.

Where to Find Them

REAL PLASTIC SURGEONS. REAL RESULTS.

By Amy Sprole, MD, and Joseph Spaniol, MD

Change Your Life with Mommy Makeover Surgery

Many women come to us because they can’t get rid of extra skin and fat after pregnancy, childbirth, breast feeding, aging or extreme weight loss. These things can leave a lasting mark on a woman’s body. Diet and exercise may help, but often bodies can only be tightened through surgery.

If you’ve tried diet and exercise, but you have sagging skin, a postbaby “bump” on your tummy, or breasts that don’t feel like they used to, a mommy makeover can help you reclaim your body so you look and feel like you again.

Mommy makeovers are a combination of cosmetic procedures that reshape and enhance your body at any age. They may include:

• Breast surgery, including breast augmentation, breast lift or breast reduction

• Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) or mini tummy tuck (targets only the lower tummy) to correct stretched and loose skin

• Liposuction to contour problem areas

With a mommy makeover, you and your surgeon discuss your goals and create a plan. Your first step to getting your body back and renewing your self-confidence is a consultation with one of our expert plastic surgeons.

Real Patients. Real Results.

Our real Plastic Surgery Center patient appreciated the care and professionalism she received at the Plastic Surgery Center. Read about her mommy makeover surgery, which included a saline implant exchange for silicone, a tummy tuck, and liposuction.

Tell us about your journey to mommy makeover surgery:

PSC Patient: I have been getting facials and Botox for years and loved the staff, so I was comfortable with the practice. I got saline implants over 20 years ago in another state and started to notice them deflating. I knew I needed to have them replaced, so I went in for a consultation. Dr. Sprole recommended silicone implants and I decided to have a tummy tuck at the same time.

Describe the days after the procedure:

PSC Patient: I knew I wanted an Exparel block, which is an injection that provides pain relief after surgery. Dr. Sprole agreed and said that would really help with post-surgery pain. After the surgery, I didn’t have any pain in my chest, but I did have manageable tummy pain. I slept in a recliner and took pain pills for about a week. I went out to dinner at one week and was back to work in two.

When did you notice your results?

PSC Patient: I noticed them immediately. My husband and sisterin-law were amazed at how much better I looked, and they couldn’t believe how good the incision was.

Are you happy with your results?

PSC Patient: Yes! I can now tuck in my shirt and feel confident. While I didn’t lose much weight, all that extra stomach skin is gone. Seeing the expression on my husband’s face as he said, “Now I can see why you wanted to do it,” was wonderful. There was nothing I could do about the extra skin except surgery, and I am so glad I did it.

Do you have advice for people considering mommy makeover surgery?

PSC Patient: Just do it. It feels so good not to have to cover up! I wish I had done it sooner so I could have enjoyed the results longer. Don’t overdo it after surgery — you’ll have better results. Let someone else take care of you for at least the first week. Don’t be scared. It’s totally worth it.

Nousette Jefferson Photography | Instagram: @njeffphoto

Before/After tummy tuck

Before/After breast surgery

Written by Caroline Jones

From Success to Addiction and Back Again

Jeremy Overcame Opioid Addiction and Reclaimed His Life

Born and raised in small-town Iowa just across the river from Omaha, Nebraska, Jeremy Manosh was successful, driven and hard-working, becoming the general manager of a large petroleum company by the time he was 30. All that changed when he offered to help with an everyday repair at his office. After heading home on his motorcycle to pick up coveralls, Jeremy was hit head-on by a van going 65 miles per hour, and he was life-flighted to Topeka, eventually entering intensive care in Kansas City. Though surgeons were able to save both legs from amputation, he was prescribed multiple intense narcotics, including Dilaudid and Oxycontin. When his doctor eventually ended the prescriptions, Jeremy experienced his first opiate withdrawal, which he described as one of the worst things he’s ever had to go through.

“Because I was still a general manager, I had about 40 to 50 employees who were asking me questions every ten seconds, and I was getting phone calls every 30 seconds. There was no way I was going to be able to function like that. Since I couldn’t get it from my doctor anymore, I started getting it from people off the street.”

For years, he juggled a full-time job with a full-time drug addiction, all while hiding it from his wife.

“Finding your next fix is maddening,” Jeremy said. “It’s the constant ‘who am I going to get it from?’ You’re making a ton of phone calls, you’re going into bad parts of town, meeting people you would never normally associate with, and you’re spending tons and tons of money because you’re getting ripped off since the people who are selling it know you’re going into withdrawal. The only thing worse than searching for your next fix is not being able to find it.”

Jeremy’s wife eventually confronted him about the lies. “She thought I was cheating on her … which I technically was — with drugs, just not with another woman. That’s kind of when everything came out, and I was finally honest with her.”

The desire to save their relationship brought him to Dr. Lakin and Center for Change. “Suboxone and Dr. Lakin changed my life,” Jeremy said. “I feel very fortunate that I got out of this before all the fentanyl stuff because I guarantee that I would’ve been part of that statistic. I guarantee it, because I didn’t care: ‘Give me whatever you have, I’ll take ten of them, I don’t care.’ I was ready for life to be over.”

Jeremy finally faced his withdrawal with the help of Suboxone, one of the main medications used to treat opioid addiction.

“Suboxone has something in it that prevents you from getting the opiate high. You’re taking it to stave off withdrawals, but you don’t get high off the medication. To me, it’s more like a maintenance thing. Some days, I don’t even have to take it.”

Today, Jeremy has enjoyed over 10 years as a stable and fully functioning father, employee and member of society.

“There are times you want somebody to get help like you did and you’ll refer them, but some people don’t care to get help. They just want to get high, they don’t want a medication that’s not going to get them high, and they think, ‘Well, what’s the point?’ To me, the point is to get away from all the ups and downs and finally get some stability in your life. You can tell a drug addict pretty much anything you want to, but they’re only going to do it on their own terms.”

Jeremy Manosh

Jayhawk pride was on display as KU fans mingled and enjoyed refreshments at this special happy hour. They learned more about the exciting developments happening within Kansas Athletics and listened to the featured guests, esteemed KU track and field coaches

Coach Stanley Redwine and Coach Tom Hayes, who shared insights into the goals and aspirations of the program.

Quinton’s Bar and Grill

Coach Stanley Redwine, Andrea Norris and Casey Seberger

Coach Tom Hays, Lisa Anderson and Blake Nelson

Debi Shuckman, Martha Thompson Messman and Tom Messman

Coach Stanley Redwine, Dave Murfin, and Coach Tom Hayes

Angela Pirner, Debi Schuckman and Holly Bump

Bart Dick, Andrea Norris, Jimmy Walker and Casey Seberger

Coach Tom Hays, Jody Klein and Coach Stanley Redwine

Dawn Tucker, Stephanie Sutton and Megan McGraw

Coach Stanley Redwine

Coach Tom Hays, Paul Titus, Cynthia Grau, Dean Zook , Malea Redenbough and Coach Stanley Redwine

Jack Dill and Robert Baldauf

Lois Jeter, Coach Stanley Redwine and Chris Jeter

Rick Navarro and Steve Gebert

Steve Ruud, Terry Klein and Patricia Thompson

Ken Nelson, Richelle Barkdull, Chris Ellis and Ryan Barkdull

Linda and Bob Nugent with Steve Gebert

Lisa Barmor, Hadasa Barmor and Vicki Young

Katy Winters and Vance Holtzman

Megan McGraw, Dawn Tucker, Stephanie Sutton and Jody Klein

Andrea Norris and Casey Seberger

Megan McGraw with Kelli and Kassidy Watkins

Steve Gebert, Jody Klein, Jeff Ayesh and Roger Theis

Bart and Carmen Dick

A DESTINATION BOUTIQUE

601 State St, Augusta, KS 67010

Phone: 316.358.0894

Hours: Monday - Saturday 10a - 6p HOME + CLOTHING + GIFTS + MORE

EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED!

The Marketplace 67010 is a unique boutique-style, destination shopping experience! You will find Consuela handbags, jewelry, gourmet foods, Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar Bar, home decor, men’s unique gifts, women's fashions, baby and kids clothing and so much more

LIVY Jewelry!

ZODICA Perfume!

Marana Jewelry!

Oils & Vinegars

113 W Central

El Dorado KS, 67042 316-321-3280

www.robinseldorado.com

Tue-Fri 10am-5:30pm Sat 10am-4pm

Rich in Tradition

Written by Bridgette West-Williams and Julie Underwood Burton

Find your Treasure at Athena Jewelry

For more than half a century, the Anthimides family at Athena Jewelry has been creating beautiful jewelry in Wichita. This family-owned business located in the heart of downtown is renowned for exceptional customer service and for providing customers with high-quality jewelry, watches and gifts for all ages and occasions.

Established in 1969 by Steve Anthimides Sr., Athena Jewelry is now owned and operated by his son, Steve Anthimides Jr. Continuing his father’s legacy of fine custom jewelry, the new owner has expanded the inventory of boutique fine jewelry lines and collections carried in-store for every taste and style. From classic cameos and pocket watches to the latest in stackable rings and chunky chains, each piece and collection at Athena has been specifically curated with customers in mind, extending the same quality and care expected from every custom or bespoke piece created in-store.

Each custom piece begins with a consultation with Anthimides, where he learns the story behind the person, the couple and the piece. Custom jewelry can be created from vintage settings, heirloom jewels or sourced precious stones. Throughout the process of selecting gemstones, metal and style, Anthimides says: “I love working with my clients to bring their vision to life and create a truly unique piece for their loved one. Using handdrawings and technology to create a design is my favorite part of the creative process.”

Once a budget and design are set, the team will turn the design into a counter drawing, or Computer-Aided Design (CAD) for the client to visualize the piece in the most realistic way before it goes to production. The piece is then produced to the CAD specifications, and finally stones are mounted, set and polished for the client’s final review and pickup. The process from start to finish typically takes four to six weeks.

Not every budget or vision is right for custom or bespoke jewelry. For those moments, Athena offers lines of boutique fine jewelry carried in-store. Customers can also choose from a selection of loose stones that can be set in a semi-mount of their choosing for a budget- and time-friendly semi-custom option for engagement or right-hand rings.

Mother’s Day and Father’s Day are just around the corner; it’s the perfect time to invest in a piece of fine jewelry or a watch to show your love for a member of any generation in your family. Athena’s collection of fine watches for either parent or selection of white, yellow and rose-gold rings, earrings, bracelets and necklaces are all special pieces that will surely become treasured family heirlooms.

For any occasion, you will find your treasure. The Anthimides family’s knowledge and decades of experience in fine jewelry and their rich tradition of customer service excellence are truly part of what makes Athena Jewelry one of Wichita’s finest treasures.

Where to Find Them

Written by Paige Feikert

Jelly Facials, Soft Gel Nails, Lash Lifts and More Trending Beauty Treatments

Beauty and skincare are taking over social media, and now all the services you’re reading about in your feed are available right here in Wichita.

Crave Beauty Academy is a cosmetology school where students learn and offer services for hair, skincare and nails; with new beauty trends constantly taking over the internet, Crave Beauty is keeping up.

“Right now, we’re seeing a big influx of people requesting skincare services,” said Jessy Orth, director of Crave Beauty Academy. “Proper skincare is a huge thing in the market right now, so we’ve added some more advanced techniques and services that you’re seeing a lot on TikTok and YouTube.”

Some of the top skincare services Crave Beauty has added include dermaplaning, a service where a technician uses a surgical scalpel to exfoliate your skin and remove vellus hair, allowing for better penetration of your skincare products and providing antiaging benefits. Another popular trend is the jelly mask, and Crave Beauty has options for everyone. “We’ve added jelly masks because it’s a trendy service. We have a collagen mask, a jelly mask with hyaluronic acid — even a luxury gold mask and a vampire mask to help with specific issues,” Orth said.

Crave Beauty offers facials for any skin type: sensitive skin, aging skin, acne-prone skin — but Orth says skin is not one-size-fits-all. That’s why Crave Beauty offers customized facials as the perfect solution for your skin. Clients can come in for free consultations to understand what products and services are right for them.

“Clients can do consultations first if they’re unsure of what they need. They can come here and we’ll do a skin mapping service on them, look under a scope and see what products would be best for their skin and what advanced services would be right for them,” Orth said.

Social media trends have also influenced teens and pre-teens, many of them starting skincare routines at a younger age than prior generations, but some skincare products and services are not fit for their skin and could cause more harm than good. “This generation that we’re in, social media can be a really good thing, so people become aware of how important skincare is,” Orth said. “But I do think there are some people out there who put things on their face just to replicate social media without really knowing what it’s for, or they’re using products that aren’t meant for their particular skin type.”

Cosmetic and nail trends are also filling social media pages. Crave Beauty is now offering detox, jelly and organic pedicures, and while nail trends are moving away from acrylics, students at Crave Beauty are also offering services for soft gel nails.

Many of the students at Crave Beauty are flexing their creativity while applying extralong nails with customized nail art, similar to those worn by top celebrities. Other trendy services include lash lifts and brow laminations, and while social media advertises athome kits for these services, Orth says you should instead turn to the professionals.

“It’s a very delicate area, the eye area, and if one little thing goes wrong it could cause blindness or irritation. Having a professional who not only knows how to do the application properly but knows the ingredients in these products as well is very important,” Orth said.

While Crave Beauty is a school for students learning how to provide hair, skincare and nail services, students are always supervised by professionals, and many of the services offered at Crave Beauty are at reduced cost compared to many spas and salons.

“I’ve let the students do my hair, skin and nails, and it’s pretty rewarding to see them learn and have those ‘aha’ moments; letting them practice on you and getting that experience is really rewarding,” Orth said.

FASHION PASSION

QUIVIRA COUNCIL ON MY HONOR BREAKFAST WITH FORMER K-STATE FOOTBALL COACH BILL SNYDER

Wichita Marriott

Bob and Janeen Hughes, Jamie Cline and Julie Dalton

Jana and Gene Stephenson

Ben and Jennifer Gorman, Stephanie Scott, Sonja Morrios and Tina Luper

Arnold Bengtson, Brandon Brungardt and Josh Gordon

Andy Gamble, Todd Wedel, Keith Howell, Luke and Christian Zimmerman

Paul Attwater, Bill Snyder and Brian Nastase

James Lewis, Javion Napier and Angela Mulligan

Roger McClellan, and Chris and Shelby Steincamp

Audrie Mangel and Jeanine Philly

Charlie Moon with event Scouts

John Rongish, Brian Galica and Gabriel Bickham

Bill Snyder and Charlie Moon

Paul Attwater, Molly Edwards, Bill Snyder, Bill Pickert and Brian Nastase

Ryan Henry and Stephanie Wise

Paul Attwater, Jody Klein, Brian Nastase and Amy Palser

Mayor Lily Wu, Clanita Jiggetts, Mario and Prisca Barnes, Junetta Everett

Kelley and Jeff DeGraffenreid, Lynn Goering and Katherine Bruce

Mike Redondo and Keith Howell

On My Honor steering committee

Rick and Melissa Bloom, and Chris Madsen

Todd Anciaux, Aron Dunn and Chris Purdum

Corinthian Kelly and Darryl Kelly Jr.

Audrie Mangel, Amelia and Emma Huerter

Patrick Goebel, Jamie Coyne, Ryan Walker and Matt Burnett

May 2024 - October 2024

10 AM

Every 2nd & 4th Tuesday

Join Storytime Village at Naftzger Park this summer. Read along with stories on the big screen and enjoy music, snacks, free books, and an activity for the kids. Admission is FREE, and this event is open to the public.

2024 SCHEDULE

Cinco de Mayo Fiesta en la Casa

Written by Julie Hying

Celebrating Mexican independence and history reminiscent of Cinco de Mayo (May 5, 1862) with gatherings and great food has become a May tradition throughout Mexico and the United States. Here are some ideas for celebrating at home with family and friends.

Coconut Margarita

6 oz. tequila (gold or silver)

4 oz. cream of coconut

2 oz. Cointreau

Fresh limes for garnishing

Toasted coconut for rimming the glasses

Run a lime wedge around the rim of the glasses and roll them in the toasted coconut. In a large cocktail shaker or pitcher filled with ice, combine tequila, cream of coconut, Cointreau and lime juice. Shake to combine. Add ice to the prepared margarita glasses; divide cocktails evenly among the four glasses. (Note: if pouring from a pitcher, use a wooden spoon to dam the ice as you pour.)

Five Layer Fiesta Dip

16 oz. refried beans

½ of a 1 oz. package of taco seasoning

8 oz. cream cheese (room temperature)

8 oz. sour cream

16 oz. jar of Mateo’s mild or medium salsa

Strawberry Margarita

1 cup sliced strawberries (fresh or frozen)

½ cup tequila (blanco or silver)

¼ cup Cointreau

¼ cup simple syrup

¼ cup fresh lime juice

Lime zest for the rim

Fresh lime slices and strawberries for garnish

Add strawberries, tequila, Cointreau and lime juice to a blender and blend until smooth. Mix salt and lime zest together in a shallow dish. Rub the rim of two glasses with a slice of lime and dip in lime salt. Fill glasses with ice and pour in the strawberry margaritas. Garnish glasses with fresh lime slices or strawberries.

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

2 ¼ oz. sliced black olives

¼ cup thinly slice jalapeños (optional)

1 tsp. butter

Preheat oven to 300 degrees. In a 9x9 or 8x8 pan, begin by spreading out the refried beans. In a bowl, blend softened cream cheese, sour cream and the taco seasoning and smooth over the bean layer. Then pour the salsa over it to cover completely. Sprinkle cheddar over the salsa. Bake at 300 degrees for 15 minutes. Once out of the oven, top with black olives and jalapeños.

Elote in a Cup

3 cups corn (fresh or frozen)

3 Tbsp. mayo

3 Tbsp. sour cream

4 Tbsp. cotija cheese (extra for garnish)

1 tsp. chili powder (extra for garnish)

1 tsp. garlic powder

1 lime divided, ½ juiced and ½ cut into wedges

2 green onions thinly sliced

3 Tbsp. chopped spinach or parsley

2 cup Frito chips (some for topping)

*4 oz. clear plastic cups

Saute fresh corn or thawed frozen corn in a skillet with 1 tsp. butter for 5–7 minutes. In a bowl, stir together mayo, sour cream, 3 Tbsp. of the cotija cheese, chili powder, garlic powder, the juice from half a lime, green onion, and parsley or spinach. Once cooled, add corn and stir to combine. Spoon mixture into four individual cups. Optional — add a layer of Fritos in the middle like a parfait (if serving immediately). Otherwise, add Fritos on the top just before serving. Top the cups with the remaining cheese and parsley or spinach and a sprinkle of chili powder. Cut a slit in each lime wedge and place on the rim of each cup.

Pollo Pizza

1 premade pizza crust (11-inch round) or 2 flatbreads (Flatout flatbreads)

¾ cup enchilada sauce or Mateo’s Gourmet Salsa

1 cup shredded cheddar or Colby Jack

1 cup Monterey Jack cheese

For the elote sauce

1 ½ cup shredded chicken breast

¼ cup red onion

cup corn kernels

Toppings (after baking)

3 Tbsp. queso fresco or cotija cheese

¼ cup fresh chopped cilantro or spinach

3 Tbsp. mayo / Juice of 1 lime / �⁄ ₈ tsp. chili powder

Preheat the oven to 425 degrees. Place flatbread or prepared pizza crust on a large baking sheet. Top flatbread or crust with enchilada sauce or salsa, and spread with a spoon. Top with shredded cheeses, red onion, corn and shredded chicken breast or rotisserie chicken. Bake for 8–10 minutes or until cheese is fully melted and just beginning to brown. Transfer to a cutting board and allow to cool for five minutes. Sprinkle with cilantro or spinach and queso fresco or cotija. In a small bowl, make the elote sauce. Add mayo, lime juice and chili powder. Stir to combine. Cut pizza and drizzle with elote sauce. Serve immediately.

Street Tacos

cup olive oil

3 Tbsp. fresh lime juice

1 Tbsp. of brine from jalapeños (jar)

5 cloves of garlic

2 Tbsp. brown sugar

1 Tbsp. cumin

1 tsp. chili powder

1 tsp. smoked paprika

1 tsp. oregano

1 ½–2 lb. flatiron steak

12 flour tortillas (street taco size)

1–2 cup shredded cheese (Mexican or Colby Jack)

Salsa or hot sauce

Mix all ingredients except the steak in a gallon zip-close bag. Pour half of the mixture into a crockpot. Place the flatiron steak on top of this marinade and cover with the rest of the mixture. Cook on low for 7–8 hours. As the meat cools slightly, use two forks to shred the meat. It will be incredibly tender. Use tortillas to assemble the tacos. Begin by using a slotted spoon to place steak into the tortillas. Then layer with flavor (salsa or hot sauce) and top with shredded cheese and any other ingredients you enjoy with tacos.

Margarita Cheesecake Bites

10 graham cracker sheets, finely crushed

¼ cup sugar

½ cup salted butter

12 cups cream cheese (room temp)

1 cup powdered sugar

2 Tbsp. premium silver tequila

2 Tbsp. fresh lime juice

1 tsp. lime zest

½ tsp. vanilla

Caramel topping (to drizzle on top)

In a large plastic bag, crush graham crackers, sugar and melted butter. Stir mixture well and dump into a 9x9 baking dish that has been lined with parchment paper. Press down with the back of a measuring cup. Freeze for 15 minutes. Note: zest the lime prior to juicing it.

In a separate bowl, combine cream cheese, powdered sugar, tequila, lime juice, lime zest, and vanilla. Using an electric mixer, beat until smooth. Spread the mixture evenly over the graham cracker crust. Lightly drizzle caramel topping over the top of the cheesecake, and freeze for one hour. Once frozen, transfer onto a cutting board. Cut into 1x1-inch squares. Peeling away from the parchment paper, carefully transfer onto a serving plate or tray.

GRAND OPENING PARTY

Genesis of Wichita

Jim Lee, Summer Williams, Scott Redler and Sylvia Do

Lee Ritchie, Michelle Phipps, Shawna Geist, Greer Geist and Jeanine Muloney

Faith Vautravers, Randall and Hannah Vautravers, and Kaitlyn Schrock

Brenden Gordon, Jonathan Payne, and Duane and Rhonda Hertel

Ashley Moore, Sarah Birchfield, and Shanon and TJ Thomas

Ashley Moore, Jamie Hanson and Darrin Hackney

Kelli and Javier Torres, Walter Zitlow and Dan Erwin

Diane Lachemay, Jane Nelson, Jeananne Houchen and Beth Bower

Jo and Jim Walters

Melody Matulewic, Tom Devlin, Brian Barents, Robin and Coleen Jennison

Gina and Lee Cole

EMPIRE 6 - featured band

Susanne Hamker, George Sevick, Alice Stevens, Molly Gaddis and Gabby Stevens

Tony Caputo, LewJene Schneider, Melody Matulewic, Beth and Guy Bower and Brian Barents

Shelby Boso and Olivia Stineman

Michelle Wheeler, and Daryn and Karen Keeter

Tommy Devlin and Melody Matulewic

Mike Conley, Steve Phillips, Scott and Jenny Hatchett, and Dalton Tillett

The Hatchett family

Rex and Jill Coad, and Jill and Duane Poynter

Tanner Cross, Makenzie Bell and Dezirae Potter

Walker and Carla Russell, Coy and Danielle Schwager, Michaeleah Assini, Chase Ross and Jack Stevens

Stormie Hightower, Tristan and Camilla Abella, Chloe LaCombe and Anna Jackson

Scott Sarver, Eric Tucker and Renee Sarver

Golden Age of Pickleball Growing Sport Keeps Seniors Fit and Flexible

Written by Paige Feikert / Photography by Jude Palser

It’s Monday morning at eight o’clock sharp, and Don Roe is taking the pickleball court at the Downtown Senior Center in Wichita. It’s where you can find 95-year-old Roe every Monday, Wednesday and Friday morning, searching for his winning partners among dozens of other seniors for the center’s competitive pickleball session.

But pickleball doesn’t stop for Roe at 11:30 a.m. when the center’s session ends — he has other places to play: Linwood Park, Orchard Park, Country Acres Baptist Church. In fact, Roe plays pickleball several times a week throughout town.

“Pickleball is so much fun, and it’s very good exercise,” Roe said. “It’s more fun to win, but even if you lose you still get good exercise.”

The Downtown Senior Center is where Roe started playing pickleball in Wichita more than 40 years ago, which at the time were the only courts in Wichita, according to Roe. But over the last several decades the game has erupted with excitement, especially within the last few years.

“Nobody knew about pickleball except those who played at the downtown senior center,” Roe said. “But since then, my stars, has it grown like crazy.”

Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in America, and it has been for the last three years. According to the Association of Pickleball Professionals (APP), 36.5 million people played pickleball in the United States last year.

The national excitement is fueling excitement in Wichita as well, with the growth of leagues, tournaments and venues that accommodate pickleball. Wichita even has connections with top pickleball pros like Matt Wright, a Wichitan currently ranked fifth nationally in men’s doubles, and Lucia Kovalova, a former Shocker ranked fourth nationally in women’s doubles.

For seniors, pickleball has become a way of life — exercise, a social outlet, a chance to participate in a competitive activity and much more. “I’ll play anywhere, anytime,” said Margo Shepler, a competitor in the 50-plus pickleball league at the Ralph Wulz Riverside Tennis Center.

Don Roe, 95, plays pickleball three times a week at the Downtown Senior Center.

Noi Sourinthone, Pickleball Pro

Shepler picked up pickleball during the height of the pandemic. While at first she was hesitant, she quickly fell in love with the sport. At the time, a dedicated league for seniors didn’t exist at Riverside Park — that is until Noi Sourinthone moved to Wichita about two years ago to become the city’s pickleball director. Sourinthone noticed a gap, and after just a few weeks on the job, he had started the 50-plus pickleball leagues.

“I wanted to give them their own space, and sometimes competing within your own age group is fun,” S ourinthone said.

Sourinthone is also the pickleball pro at Riverside Park, where he provides lessons and runs several leagues. In the roughly two years since the 50-plus league started, Sourinthone has seen tremendous growth, more than doubling the number of teams who regularly participate. In fact, Sourinthone has taken note of the interest in the sport from seniors so much that he’s planning on including age groups for players in their 60s, 70s and 80s for a national tournament at Riverside this summer.

Unlike most of the pickleball groups for seniors in town, the league at Riverside involves a consistent partner, something Shepler enjoys most. “You can learn together. It makes it easier, because once you play with someone over and over again you know where they are on the court and what their strengths are,” Shepler said.

The benefits of the 50-plus league aren’t only for the players; 39-year-old Sourinthone has found his own endearing connections through the league.

“They keep me alive. They are a constant reminder of what it means to really be in the moment,” Sourinthone said. “As one of the local pros here, to be able to spend court time with them, I hope I am reminding them that they are loved and appreciated, and they are human.”

“If you’re out there working on strength, mobility and balance with pickleball, you’re less likely to sprain your ankle, less likely to have a fall.”

— Dr. Andrew Porter, sports medicine and family medicine physician

Pickleball Potential: Strength, Mobility, Balance in Seniors

Physicians are also noticing the potential in pickleball for seniors. Pickleball provides low-impact exercise for aging adults, which not only helps them slow the physical effects of aging, but also helps prevent injuries both on and off the court.

“If you’re out there working on your strength, working on mobility, working on balance with pickleball, then you’re less likely to sprain your ankle, less likely to have a fall, you’re more agile, less likely to trip on something. It’s definitely reasonable to think that injuries have been avoided because of pickleball,” said Dr. Andrew Porter, a sports medicine and family medicine physician with Ascension Via Christi.

Porter says the benefits of pickleball for seniors are far deeper than the physical perks: the sport has both mental and emotional health benefits. “It kind of forces you to get out and interact with others,” Porter said. “If it’s singles, you have to get out there and play against your opponent — but also, with doubles, you have to communicate and work together, so I think those aspects are equally as important as the pure physical aspects.”

With aging comes loss of muscle mass, reduced flexibility and decline of the cardiovascular system, says Porter, but pickleball is slowing those processes for seniors.

“I feel like it’s an attainable activity for most people to do. I love my patients who run marathons or participate in Ironmans, but I don’t feel like that’s for everybody — pickleball is something that everyone can do,” Porter said.

Though the sport is popular among seniors, the largest age bracket for pickleball players nationwide is ages 18 to 34. Now grandparents, parents, kids and grandkids are all sharing the court. “My son and daughter play pickleball in Texas, and they’re both very good players — better than I am,” Roe said. “We usually play a lot of pickleball when they’re in town.”

While Roe is often playing against competitors who are 10 or more years his junior, he never shies away from a pickleball match, and if he seeks you out, just know he’s out to win.

“You make a lot of friends in pickleball, see, you play with different people nearly every game — but of course I try to find a real good partner to play with, and then hope to play against people who aren’t so good so that we can win real easily,” Roe said.

Wichita Marriott

Fred Thurlow and Bobbi Hansen, Nancy and Shoen Fitzgerald

John and Barbara Hoffman, Bob and Rosie Dool, Scott Post, Janet Wright, and Susan and Chris Addington

Eileen Kludt and Ric Wolford

Deann Sullivan, Geri Appel and Eric McGonigle

Dane Estok, Brian and Susan Burrus, and Andrew Prigmore

Brenda Fulmer, Sid and Dave Sproul, and Bob and Rosie Dool

Jim and Tricia Faith

DeeAnne Fahnestock, Sid Sproul, Brenda Fulmer, and Rosie Dool

Jessica Dunbar, Kim Hurtig and Deb Brinegar

John and Barbara Hoffman

Fred and Joyce Heismeyer

Kelly Ulmer and Kevin Rathert

Scott and Diane Post, Susan and Steve Houlik

Tony and Kim Hurtig, and Rosann and John Exline

Michelle Tong, Michael Moeder, and Debby and Greg Ek

Larry and Kathy McNeil, Susan and John Vetter

John and Sally Alefs, Kelly and Will Momsen

John and Sher Hurst

Tom and Peggy Church, Greg and Debby Ek, Darin and Tara Kater

Larry Hatteberg and Fred Heismeyer

Scott and Lori Hampel

Tony Hurtig with Rosann and John Exline

Robin and Eric McGonigle

Mark and Carol Campbell

Exline

AWARDS EVENT

The Venue at Madison Park in Derby

Patrick and Laura Mormando, Terry Marr and Cathie Barnard

Tiffany Webb and Shana McCain

Kim and Sly Cowans

Debi Strange, Stacia Kolbeck and Sissy Koury

Chino and Kendra Deluna

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty

Stephenson Bascombe, Mahmood and Manna Karim, Tien Nguyen and Co D Chung, and Mirza Baig

Jessica Hooker, Michelle Post, Lauren Brown and Debbie Najera

Robin Davis and Val Peare

Troy and Jill Smith with Joseph Scapa

Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices PenFed Realty - Newton office

Jon Quincy, Tiffany Mekkaoui, Aubrey Benjamin, Patty Sanders, Mandi Serrioz and Christine Lunsford – leadership team

BEST BODY SHOP

1422 E Flint Hills National Pkwy

$2,340,000 • Flint Hills National • 5 Bedrooms • 5 Full & 3 Half Bathrooms • 6,041 SF • Pool Pool Bath • Outdoor Kitchen • 6 Car Garage • 1 Acre Lot • Gated Community

This incredible new design by Craig Sharp Homes is the newest addition to the architecturally distinctive homes found in the spacious Park Estate areas of Flint Hills National. Located on a scenic 1 acre home site and just a short walk to the prestigious and nationally recognized Flint Hills National Golf Club, the exterior of stone, stucco and glass compliments the surrounding natural beauty of native grasses, wild flowers and woodlands. Over 6,000 SF finished in this open floor plan with 5 bedrooms (potential for 6 BR's), 5 full baths, 3 half baths and a 6 car garage. Spectacular outdoor living area features fantastic lanai and covered patios wrapping around a beautiful pool. Flint Hills National is a 640 acre private and gated retreat that feels a world removed from traffic and congestion, but is just a short drive from the area's best public and private schools, as well as the best retail and dining opportunities in east Wichita.

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.

Interiors by Design Gallery Brings a Lot to the Table

And Chairs, Doors, Windows and Floors

Last month I had the honor of attending the open house at Interiors by Design Gallery. This showroom was once owned and operated by another local family for over 20 years. Previously this showroom catered to designers and builders; now it’s open for business and ready to serve the community as a whole.

In November of 2021 Ashley Moore decided that she was ready to expand her business ventures, so she rebranded to start Interiors by Design Gallery. This month I wanted to showcase Ashley and her team because, as I listened to them, I could see that they’re a driven, well educated, remarkably strong and talented team. As we sat and spoke, the team talked about the good, bad and ugly of being in the design industry — but the best part was seeing a team that will always have each other’s best interest at heart in every part of the business.

As a mom, wife and grandmother myself, I am in awe as I watch the Interiors team balance family, work and friendships. This remarkable team also plays a vital role with my Designers Supporting Designers (DSD) group by helping me to remind our industry leaders that we are better together. We teach our group leaders that our belief is collaboration over competition.

A Woman-Owned and Run Business

The team at Interiors by Design Gallery were gracious enough to answer a few of my questions.

Q. From one women-owned business to another, what do you want to share with women everywhere about how to start and find success?

A. Just start! Take that first step and be willing to make mistakes. Create a community of like-minded women who will mentor, support and encourage you as a leader and dreamer along the way, and truly do not be afraid to ask for help. It could be the catalyst to creating something great when you humble yourself and allow people to walk beside you with added wisdom and discernment.

Q. What is one important short and long-term goal for Interiors by Design Gallery and your team?

A. We set several goals during our strategy meeting at the beginning of the year as we strived to build our community reach. We set the focus on building solid relationships with builders, vendors, home owners, designers, realtors and tradesmen. By doing that, we know it will help us gain business, but also credibility that will result in growth.

Q. How can people have a hands-on experience of your showroom?

A. We are excited to have the opportunity to host lots of different kinds of events in our new space, such as lunch-and-learns and small private gatherings. We want all who enter our showroom to leave inspired and encouraged as they create the perfect atmosphere for their home or business.

Finally, we are now accepting walk-ins! We are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. for guests to come and shop. From wallpaper to flooring, tile to furniture, people will be warmly greeted and guided as we answer questions and show product.

DESIGN SOURCE INTERIORS

by Nahid Holmes

a r t y w i t h a p u r p o s e

S A T U R D A Y , J U N E 1 5 T H , 2 0 2 4 5 : 0 0 P M T O 1 0 : 0 0 P M

GET TOP NOTCH CARE AT KANSAS MEDICAL CENTER

We have assembled a highly competent team of surgeons, physicians, nurses, technicians and support sta that are dedicated to providing the highest level patient care. They understand that the best medicine is achieved through the empowerment of caregivers so they are unhindered in their quest to deliver compassionate and evidence based health care. Such care is complemented by utilizing the latest in medical technology while listening to each patient’s needs and customizing care plans.

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ED SERVICES: Main Campus