SPLURGE!316 October 2023

Talking Shop

Wichita Boutiques Share Fall Fashion Finds

Queen Beekeeper

Oktoberfest

Tremendous Teens

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Welcome to Two Fans-Turned-Family Members!

We love SPLURGE! fans — and we really love it when SPLURGE! fans become SPLURGE! family! So we’re delighted to introduce to you two wonderful women who are representing your favorite people magazine in the ICT. Holly Bump and Dawn Tucker will be helping Wichita-area businesses grow by marketing their brands and offerings in the pages of this magazine and through our other SPLURGE! products.

Holly is a Houston native who moved to Wichita from Arizona in 2021 with her husband, Ritchie. She says the first time she stepped into Wichita 13 years ago, she was in love, so she welcomed the move and hasn’t been disappointed. As a former business owner with a background in sales and marketing, Holly says she’s excited to help companies further their reach with SPLURGE! “There are so many loyal customers of SPLURGE! magazine; I wanted to be a part of its future,” she said. “The magazine shows class and has a great image. And the people who represent the magazine made me want to be a part of it even more.” (Well thanks, Holly! *blushing*)

Dawn is Wichita-born and raised and has worked in the interior design field for over 10 years with her business, Dawn’s Designs. Today, she has a design consultant company, DT Consulting LLC. She and her husband, Shane, have two kids and two grandkids. In addition to helping businesses promote their brands in the magazine’s pages, she will also be bringing interior design content to readers. “My hope is to expand readers’ palettes for design and educate them on everything Wichita has to offer, from exterior design, like a well-furnished patio, to interior finishes to smaller

details like place settings. And I’ll be doing it with every budget in mind,” she said. “My joy is making every part of the home functional and beautiful — a space you want to come home to every night.”

You’ll be seeing Holly’s and Dawn’s faces at many SPLURGE! and community events, so be sure to say hi!

XO, Jody and Amy

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

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Graphic Design Mitch Gee

Contributing Writers Julie Underwood Burton, Alexis Evans, Paige Feikert, John Huthmacher, Julie Hying, Caroline Jones, Lauren “L” Mercado

Guest Columnists Rebecca Billups, Nataliya Biskup, John Lasak, Eric Litwiller, Joseph Spaniol, Amy Sprole, Randy Yeisley

Fashion Photography Tobie Andrews

Local Faces Photography Michael Carroll Jr.

We’re happy to introduce you to two new members of the SPLURGE! family, Dawn Tucker and Holly Bump.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

8

Five Local Boutique Owners

“People buy from people,” as the saying goes. This month, fashion columnist Lauren “L” Mercado went behind the racks at five boutiques to find the faces behind local fashion. Meet your neighborhood fashionistas!

22

Tremendous Teens

Avery Johnson, McKenzie Fairchild and Clay Shively have all built glowing resumes in football, javelin, shot put, discus or long-distance running — but what they express through their character shines even brighter.

54 Oktoberfest

A citywide toast to autumn and beer, the eighth annual ICT Bloktoberfest has grown enough to move to an expanded venue at Naftzger Park. And Manu and Austin English are bringing authentic festbiers to Revolutsia.

56

Queen Beekeeper

When Michelle Knight added bee hives to her small hobby farm, she entered a fascinating world of one of “nature’s great wonders.” From establishing a hive to harvesting the honey, there’s always something new to learn.

64

Best Body Shop

For Clay Hoberecht, knowing his way around automotive power tools is just part of the job. His real mission is educating customers and advocating for them when it comes to dealing with insurance companies.

Jackie McGilbray, wearing clothing from her Wichita boutique Jewel Angels

Photography: Tobie Andrews

Location: Stratosphere outside WSU Barton School of Business

Stratosphere, created and installed in 2022, is the work of internationally acclaimed artist duo Hybycozo and is the 86th piece in the Ulrich Museum’s Martin H. Bush Outdoor Sculpture Collection.

Lauren “L” Mercado is a

and owner of Social Style.

@styleby.elle

Written by Lauren “L” Mercado

Who Are the Fashionistas in Your Neighborhood?

Running a boutique involves more than glamor. It’s a daily effort to stay updated with evolving trends, offering the community handpicked, unique styles that express individuality. In the age of online fast-fashion giants, supporting these local boutiques means contributing to our community’s entrepreneurial spirit and fashion artistry right here in Kansas. As the saying goes, “People buy from people,” so I embarked on a mission to meet the faces behind our beloved local boutiques pictured in the

brother were the children of a pastor, so they were raised dressing up for church and their mom taught them to sew. This fostered a unique sense of style — a characteristic that McGilbray didn’t initially realize was a coveted virtue.

“We made everything ourselves. We sewed our prom dresses and we didn’t even like them that much, but when we’d get to prom everyone would say, ‘Oh my gosh, your dress is so cute!’ It’s almost like a gift we didn’t know we had, until people started to copy it,” McGilbray says with a laugh. McGilbray, who has a business/management degree from Friends University, opened Jewel Angels in 2010 in a St. Louis suburban mall. Three years ago when she and husband Darren moved back to Wichita, she opened her shop on Douglas Avenue in College Hill. During the pandemic, she decided to model her weekly merchandise arrivals in a Facebook Live event called Fashion Friday. It was such a hit (especially drawing out-of-state viewers and shoppers) that she has continued the event every week since. You can watch Fashion Friday on her Jewel Angels Facebook page every Friday at 8 p.m. Catch her Fashion Forward Tuesday show at 11 a.m. Tuesdays on Good Day Kansas on KSN Channel 3. This fall vests are giving blazers a run for their money, McGilbray says, cargo jeans and pants are everywhere, and the fashion world has gone metallic. “Last year’s faux leather leggings are in metallics this year.”

Tonya Scott, Marketplace 67010

“We get new merchandise every week, and I don’t repeat the same items. Our reason for doing that is so everyone is not in the same look. We’re trying to allow our customers to wear unique items that they won’t see someone else in town repeating,” McGilbray says. She and her six sisters and one

I was excited for the opportunity to roll out to Augusta to check out Marketplace 67010. Entering the shop’s front door, I experienced what the team at Marketplace calls the “Wow! moment.”

stylist

Follow her on Instagram at

“Guests will literally say, ‘Wow! It’s so big,’ ” says Marketplace owner Tonya Scott. It’s true, I was surprised by the square footage and how every inch of the shop was full of a wide range of products. There I was, thinking I was going to check out a sleepy hole-in-the-wall boutique, and instead I walked into a naturally lit, spacious store with high ceilings, high energy and thousands of products.

Along with its trendy and unique fashion staples, the shop has an abundance of specialty food items, gifts for anyone, home goods, a full-service flower shop and truly a lot more. “There is really something for everyone,” says Scott. “We try to have fun and unique items. The Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar Bar is an eye-catcher and tastings are encouraged! We have customers who spend hours shopping and then take home a fresh flower arrangement for the dinner table.”

When I met Scott, I noticed she was wearing a bracelet with the word “Nana” written in alphabet beads. I was surprised to hear that 12 humans call her “Nana.” Scott glows, and you can feel that radiance inside her shop. I had such a heartwarming feeling being there, maybe because of the small town location, but mostly because of the kindhearted smiles with which Scott and her staff welcome you.

67010 Marketplace is well worth the drive to Augusta. Plan for enough time to explore the shop, but also the town. “Augusta is a fun little town with a growing downtown area called the Red Brick Social District,” says Scott. “We have an established restaurant, boutiques and two breweries coming this winter. Our restored bowling alley is opening soon, a brand-new coffee shop, and more. It’s a nice place to go on a day trip.”

Tara Castillo, The Violet Closet

Tucked away a block north of east Central is a unique consignment shop located in Green Elephant Village. Located inside a 1920s converted home, The Violet Closet, named after owner Tara Castillo’s grandmother, is the epitome

of a “hidden gem.” You are instantly met with an uplifting “Hello!” and jam-packed racks, featuring designer pieces from Coach and Chanel to Gucci, Anthropologie and Dorothee Schumacher.

Castillo is a petite, bubbly blonde with an incredibly sweet demeanor — the type of person you just want to chat with all day. Between chatting, I was distracted by the clothing on the racks: A denim Coach bucket hat and a Burberry miniskirt caught my eye. I browsed around while Castillo completed her opening duties, which — as you can imagine — included the usual tasks, like organizing the racks, as well as more unlikely ones like feeding the pair of cats that live outside her shop. If you’re more of a dog person, you can catch her dog, George. “He works Wednesdays and Fridays.” Castillo tells me.

Yes, Castillo is an animal lover, but she’s also a fashion enthusiast to the core. She truly knows her designers, and much of her job consists of researching new ones. “On a recent trip to Paris I saw a lot of pleated midi and maxi skirts, and of course the French love a good, classic trench. I have also been admiring pinks and variations of super red-pinks. Very pretty for this fall.” That’s what you want in a consignment shop: a well-curated, well-researched collection by a person with a well-rounded fashion sense. Shopping at big-box fashion stores just can’t give you the individuality that The Violet Closet offers. “There is something special about wearing quality pieces,” says

Castillo. “My 5-foot self definitely walks a little taller when I’m cloaked in something smart and fanciful.” Stop into her shop for one-off pieces, with designer labels at a discounted price, not to mention the sustainability factor of pre-loved clothing.

Allison Baker, Aspen Boutique

My next stop was Aspen Boutique, located at Douglas and Oliver. Arriving early, I had the chance to capture beautiful photos of the building; then, just before 10 a.m., the empty parking lot soon became full. One by one, women dressed to the nines were arriving. Some were early-bird customers and others were arriving to work at the store. Owner Allison Baker arrived dressed in a colorful watercolor print dress and an awesome pair of boots. She’s the queen of “the Aspen look,” no doubt. “I love boots — ankle boots, midcalf or tall boots are always a great staple for fall and winter,” she says. “They can be worn with jeans, skirts and dresses, and provide a casual or sophisticated tone, depending on the look you are putting together.”

longtime owners two-and-a-half years ago, Baker has added over 30 new fashion and jewelry brands to the store, while keeping the brands that existing customers love.

“Aspen Boutique has always been known for its unique fashion and jewelry,” Baker says. “The store has a bohemian feel to its fashion sense, but, with the new brands, we’ve diversified to include fashion that appeals to a broad customer base of women in their mid-20s and up. It’s often referred to as a store where mothers and daughters can shop together.”

Aspen carries brands like Johnny Was, Sympli and Habitat. Baker tells me, “The first thing customers notice is the array and selection of jewelry — both fashion and estate fine jewelry ranging from southwestern turquoise and sterling silver to diamonds and rubies. I am especially proud to have a selection of seven local artisan jewelry collections. Once you get past the jewelry cases, the store is filled with an assortment of unique fashion and accessories including hats, handbags, scarves and shoes.”

Baker has an eye for the unique and luxurious, which only adds to the 36 years Aspen has been in business. Her additions to the already iconic Wichita boutique will keep me coming back for decades to come.

Candy Hardesty, The LBD Etc

Sure, The LBD Etc. has a multitude of little black dresses, but they sell so much more. It’s a robust collection of clothing that could dress you from head to toe. “We have tons of great dresses for every occasion. We also carry every fashion category you would love to have in your closet. Designer denim, great sweaters, silky blouses, shoes, boots, jewelry, handbags — all the best stuff,” says Candy Hardesty, manager and head buyer.

The LBD is locally owned by Barbara Mann and is going on 14 years in business. As the extrovert that I am, I appreciate a talkative staff with high energy, willing to help me explore everything the store has to offer, and that’s what you get inside The LBD. I walked into a busy store full of laughter and conversations. Customers seemed to know the store staff and the staff knew the customers by name, which is the magic you get from a local boutique shopping experience.

Hardesty has an impeccable style, which you can see actualized in the collection she buys for the boutique. She’s everything I picture an LBD customer looks like in the wild, wearing their latest purchases. When I stopped in to take pictures of the store and Hardesty, customers were arriving wanting to shop with her, and she gracefully helped them while taking a moment to pose for me. She commented: “This is probably a good time to take the shots; this is as slow as it will get.” That says a lot about The LBD. After our shoot, Hardesty was headed out to New York on a buying trip. Be sure you visit The LBD as the holidays approach to see all of the new pieces she found. The LBD is my go-to place for holiday wear, and any occasion, really.

Written by SPLURGE! Staff

Fall is here, bringing with it pumpkin bread, apple pie, Halloween candy and the many joys of a Thanksgiving feast. While we all know and love that fall feeling of too much good food, this season Dr. Terry Klein pursues medical research to help those with gastroparesis, a condition that affects nerve and muscle activity in the stomach, slowing or stopping the movement of food from the stomach to the small intestine. Wichita’s AMR Research Facility is seeking to enroll people with gastroparesis in a clinical trial that will help participants better digest their holiday meals, providing the chance to feel better and receive compensation for their participation.

Q. How would a potential participant know if they have gastroparesis?

A. Well, gastroparesis means the stomach becomes a rather lazy organ, and that affects people variably. Some people are very minimally affected, and they can just feel full. Most of the time, though, we see people have more difficulty with it. After they put something in their stomach, it fills up very quickly, so they have early satiety, or early sense of fullness. Most of these cases are caused by Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, but it can also result from abdominal surgery, gastrointestinal infection or autoimmune disease. In general, most people are diagnosed with gastroparesis by a doctor.

Q. Why would Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes cause gastroparesis?

A. Gastroparesis is most common in people who have had diabetes for at least 10 years, and many of these patients experience other related complications as well. A recent study found a diagnosis of gastroparesis in about 5 percent of patients with Type 1 diabetes and 1 percent of Type 2 diabetics. This is mainly because diabetes can slowly damage the vagus nerve, which controls how quickly your stomach empties and how long food remains in the body.

Q. Are there any other symptoms of gastroparesis besides early satiety?

A. Gastroparesis can frequently cause bloating, abdominal pain, acid reflux, heartburn, constipation and indigestion. People will also often have nausea and vomiting, and the vomiting will be daily in more advanced cases.

With Dr. Terry Klein

Q. Are there currently medication options for people with gastroparesis?

A. We have chemicals that can help, but they’re ultimately not great options. For example, Metoclopramide, or Reglan, works pretty well to help the stomach churn things better, but it also goes into the brain and can cause fatigue, sluggishness and tardive dyskinesia. Tardive dyskinesia is what happens when people who have psychiatric issues take psychiatric medications and get a twitching by their mouth or some other involuntary muscle movement on the face, neck, arm or leg. Reglan unfortunately is substantially associated with that. Really, our objective is to try to find something that will help stimulate stomach muscles and allow the stomach to empty while getting rid of those naggy side effects.

Q. What does your approach to helping solve these problems look like in AMR’s upcoming clinical trial?

A. Right now, unfortunately, we’re very limited on how to help people who have gastroparesis. There is a medication available in some countries outside of the United States, but it’s available only in very restrictive dosages. We are working on a dosage for this type of medicine that is much safer, and can be utilized more effectively to help people who have diabetes — or, really, a slowing of the gut for any reason — enjoy a more active and healthy stomach.

How to Participate

To participate in AMR’s gastroparesis clinical trial, call 316.689.6635 or visit amrwichita.com.

Partner at Wichita Research Facility AMR

Written by Randy Yeisley

Realistic Investment Returns

How much return should you make on your investment portfolio? Before I entered into the wealth management arena almost 20 years ago, I would ask others who I considered more knowledgeable than me how much I could make in the stock market. I was almost always given answers such as, “You will make about 10% over the long haul.” I had no reason to disbelieve this information and it was coming from people involved in wealth management, so I accepted it at face value. But is that a reasonable or a realistic expectation in the world in which we live today? I think not.

RISK VS. RETURN

Obviously, there is a correlation between the amount of risk (or volatility) that we take with our investments and the amount of return we can expect from those investments. In general, if we’re willing to accept more volatility in our portfolio, we can usually expect to be rewarded with greater investment returns. If we want less volatility, then we generally get lower returns. Keep in mind that our risk tolerance probably changes with age and stage of life. The older we get or the closer to retirement we get, the less comfortable we are with the potential for major market losses.

INVESTOR EXPECTATIONS

How much return do investors expect? In many cases, they expect what they’ve been trained to expect from the wealth management world. And, frankly, I think that investment advisors have done a great disservice to the average investor. The graph above shows the annual returns of the S&P 500 since 1928. The horizontal bar represents return levels between 9 and 11%. How many annual returns actually fell in this 9 to 11% range? Only six of them! The truth is that market returns tend to be either really good or really bad. Rarely do they fall in the “normal” range.

REASONABLE RETURNS

We live in a different era of wealth management and financial planning since the turn of the century. It is much

more appropriate to evaluate potential market returns based on historical data from the year 2000 to present than to look at 50-year historical data for the stock market. We just live in a different world than we did 50 years ago. If you factor in all of the bad years and all the good years, the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from January 1, 2000 to January 1, 2023 is only 6.3%! The CAGR is the annualized rate of return over these most recent 23 years. It’s not the 10% that we’ve been told to expect by the experts.

BOTTOM LINE

We live in volatile times. If you are on the home stretch to retirement or already in retirement, then you should get a reality check on how much return you can reasonably make on your investments and how much impact portfolio losses will have on your ability to maintain your lifestyle in retirement. If you are younger, then you can probably tolerate more volatility and capture some better returns. But you still need to understand that market returns may be lower than you’ve been told and you may need to save more aggressively over the course of your career to ensure that you will enjoy a successful retirement lifestyle. Seek the advice of a fiduciary advisor that you can trust and create an investment strategy that works, even at reduced return levels.

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.

Only 6 returns between 9% & 11%

Taking Dressage World by Storm

Written by Alexis Evans

Augusta Native Named Grand Prix Champion, Headed to Pan American Games

The little known sport of dressage, more commonly practiced on the East coast, has captured the imagination of 27-year-old Codi Harrison for over 20 years. Just how did this young woman, born to a “nonhorsey” family from Augusta, Kansas, not only develop an interest in dressage, but also excel enough to work her way up to her recent Grand Prix win? Codi was first bit by the “horse bug” at a very young age. She explains, “I fell in love with the sport. I never had any doubt I wanted to do this professionally. While it was probably a delusion, I told everyone from the time I was 8 that I wanted to work with horses when I grew up.”

From the moment she began to compete in dressage, Codi pushed herself and her team to achieve great things. She worked her way up to the Grand Prix by the age of 22, a competition made even more prestigious by the fact that only 10 to 12 top riders are invited to participate. After succeeding in her first major win at age 23, Cody has continued to achieve more by the year, including her most recent achievement of making the 2023 Pan American Games team taking place this month in Santiago, Chile. This decorated young woman is seasoned to say the least, with many competitions and huge wins under her belt. Despite all this, Codi takes a very wise approach to her profession: “My favorite saying is ‘The more you learn, the more you realize the less you know.’ From a young age, I’ve learned that life doesn’t always go your way, as horses have a way of breaking your heart.”

In Codi’s own words, dressage is “basically teaching a horse to have the flexibility of a ballerina with the power of a gymnast. Horses aren’t like dogs; you can’t teach these movements by giving a verbal cue. This training can take upwards of six years, and the end goal is to make it look as if the rider is sitting there doing nothing, while the horse ‘dances.’ ” This complicated and beautiful sport is not for the faint of heart, but the result of a well-bonded horse and trainer is a sweet prize.

Codi credits her accomplishments to the fervent support of her parents, Warner and Renee Harrison, who now reside in Wichita. While it is unlikely that they could have predicted their daughter would have the life that she does, they are undoubtedly proud, and 100 percent in support of all she has accomplished. Warner recalls watching her chase her dreams from such a young age, remarking how incredible it was to see someone who was not born into the dressage world be so intent on such a far-reaching goal. He adds, “She’s a beautiful person inside and out, and I couldn’t be more proud of who she is and chooses to be.”

When not preparing for competition, Codi can be found training her horses in her home of Wellington, Florida, including 8-year-old Bossco, 6-year-old Bella Flora, and 3-year-old Phelon. Training is an all-consuming daily task, and every horse requires constant work. Codi’s knowledge of dressage is vast, but she reveals that sometimes the best way to train horses is to approach them with three things: lots of time outside, compassion — and above all — snacks. She leaves off with this final thought: “I wish everyone knew the amount of effort that goes into creating these horses. I know many say it’s not a sport, and while I wouldn’t compare our riders to top athletes in sports such as track or gymnastics, there is an incredible amount of skill that goes into it.”

Follow Codi Harrison’s journey on Instagram @codiharrison.

125TH ANNIVERSARY RECEPTION Friends University

Amy and Ken Stoltzfus, John Lewis and Rob Ramseyer

Fred Berry, John and Mary Ellen Crandall, Beth McDonald, and Susan and Richard Felix

Joyce and Thayne Thompson

Brie Boulanger, Veda and Kevin Journagan, and Sanya Wiles

Ben and Denise Staley, Kevin and Melissa Hoppock, Debbie and Brent Edminsten

Heather and Guy Chmieleski

Anna, Elise, Brett, Amy and Bryan Carey

Gary and Connie Young, and Sharon and David Hewitt

Tim and Gail Buchanan

Cecil Riney, Bob Hett, Doug Riney and Ben Staley

John Lewis, Lynn Ghormley, Laura Fuller and Paul Moore

Biff Green, Jennifer Cook, Heather Carlton and Kevin Journagan

Celebrating 125 Year s of Friends Univer sit y Friends University opened its doors in September 1898 and celebrates 125 years in the Wichita community. A new timeline wall and commemorative documentary were revealed to celebrate this anniversary milestone.

Celebrate with us and learn more at friends.edu/125

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

What Is Breast Reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction surgery aims to restore breasts to near-normal shape, appearance, symmetry and size. Women have breast reconstruction surgery following a mastectomy, lumpectomy, radiation treatment or congenital breast deformity. Breast reconstruction often involves several procedures performed in stages, and can either begin at the time of mastectomy or be delayed until a later date.

In this article, we aim to answer some common questions about modern reconstruction. For more detailed information and examples, please visit our blog at pscwichita.com/blog.

How Is Modern Implant-Based Reconstruction Done?

Traditionally, reconstructive implants were always placed below the chest-wall muscles. However, this created more elevated, painful and less natural-appearing reconstructions. Commonly, these patients have animation deformity, which is the movement of the implant when the chest muscle contracts.

To overcome this, surgeons have started placing implants on top of the muscles in the place where the breast tissue existed and cover the implant completely with mesh. This is called prepectoral reconstruction. This is usually the best placement for most patients. Keeping the implant above the muscle decreases postoperative pain and eliminates animation deformity. If the patient needs radiation and the muscle stiffens afterwards, it does so underneath the implant and thus does not affect the implant as much.

Which Mastectomy Incision Is Right for Me?

The traditional mastectomy incision directly across the breast is no longer the only option. For patients who want smaller breasts, we often use traditional breast reduction incisions for the mastectomy so that the final reconstructed result ends up looking similar to a breast reduction procedure.

Other patients are good candidates for a nipple-sparing procedure and these patients may be able to have their mastectomy and reconstruction done through much more hidden incisions placed around the nipple or in the crease under the breast.

One Stage or Two? Can I Go “Direct To Implant?”

Typically, patients undergo two-stage reconstruction. This means tissue expanders are placed at the time of the mastectomy, and they are used to stretch the skin and soft tissue very gently over a period of weeks until there is enough space for an implant. Occasionally, patients are candidates for one-stage, direct-toimplant reconstruction. This is less common, but results are often excellent for well-selected patients.

Will My Breasts Look Natural After Reconstruction?

Many patients have visible implant rippling with reconstructed breasts. This can be apparent particularly in prepectoral reconstruction, as the implant is not hidden by muscle at the upper part of the breast. We treat this with fat grafting by taking a small amount of fat from another part of the body and using it to smooth any visible ripples. This procedure is often done at the second stage of reconstruction when the expanders are removed and implants are placed.

What About Nipples?

If a nipple-sparing procedure was not an option for a patient, nipple reconstruction can be performed. Alternatively, a patient may elect to undergo 3D nipple tattooing after their implants are placed. This is covered by insurance and done by our aesthetics team.

The three board certified plastic surgeons at the Plastic Surgery Center are uniquely qualified to help you with your breast reconstruction. Please contact us at 316.688.7500 for your consultation.

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

Nousette Jefferson Photography | Instagram: @njeffphoto

This patient underwent bilateral mastectomy using Wise-patterned, anchor-shaped, incisions with placement of tissue expanders and mesh on top of the muscle. She is now shown eight months after her second surgery and has had radiation to her right breast. Next step: 3D nipple tattooing with our aesthetician.

This patient underwent nipple-sparing reconstruction in two stages. She underwent fat grafting at the time of placement of her 605cc silicone implants.

ABOVE &

Written by Julie Underwood Burton

Celebrating Tremendous Teens in the ICT

Nothing but Athleticism and Accolades for This Rising Star

After graduating from high school a semester early, Maize High School quarterback Avery Johnson has already moved to Manhattan, and Kansas State University could not be more thrilled to welcome this rising star from Wichita to their Wildcat football team. His resume speaks for itself. Avery was the Gatorade Player of the Year. He was the Barry Sanders Male Athlete of the Year. He was recognized in 2022 as the top Kansas football player by MaxPreps, a top honor awarded to one player in every state for individual excellence in high school football. And he was one of very few high school quarterbacks selected to all four major All-American Bowls — in Dallas, San Antonio, Orlando and Honolulu. Because he was an enrollee at Kansas State, he did not participate in Hawaii as he had his sights set on camp and what’s next in Manhattan. Also, as a talented basketball player, he was named MVP his sophomore year when Maize won the state championship. Avery is also talented in baseball and golf. But football is his game and Avery’s name will continue to go down in football history, already starting his college journey early as a freshman, and one who undoubtedly will become one of K-State’s all-time great quarterbacks.

Avery’s dad, Mark Johnson, describes Avery as being very athletic since the age of three, but says what truly stands out about his son is his accomplishments. “When he left Maize USD 266, Avery was one of the very few students who had straight A’s from kindergarten through grade 12, so he never had a B grade in any subject prior to enrolling at KSU.” That is quite an accomplishment.

Avery was also known for the example he set in the classroom, and enjoys helping kids — especially those with special needs. His father also says Avery responds positively to the interviews and autographs requested of such an accomplished athlete, but adds he is not an attention seeker and likes the simpler things in life. His dad proudly exclaims, “Avery understands that God has put him in a position that most don’t have the opportunity to do. And when all the spotlights are turned off, then I really love who my son is.”

Avery Johnson

BEYOND

On Track With an Award-Winning Past and Future

McKenzie Fairchild is not just a high school track star — she has been referred to as one of the greatest javelin throwers in Kansas history. In her junior year she posted the nation’s top high school javelin throw and won state in all three events: javelin, shot put and discus. In this year’s state finals as a senior, again she claimed the same three state gold medals for the second straight year, helping Andale win its sixth consecutive 4A team title.

Not only is McKenzie a winner on the track. In volleyball, she was awarded three-time, all-state, 4A player of the year, and took first, second and fourth during her four years. She was an all-state player in basketball, starting all four years and finishing fourth at state in her senior year.

In recognition of all these achievements, McKenzie was named the Lynette Woodard High School Female Athlete of the Year at the

Greater Wichita Sports Banquet, held annually by the Wichita Sports Commission. Her father, Tim Fairchild, says, “McKenzie worked very hard in the weight room and the classroom. She was a 4.0 student. She was a great teammate and leader. We are very proud of her accomplishments in high school.”

Coming from a family of athletes, McKenzie and her older sister, Katelyn, dominated the track scene at Cessna Stadium in Wichita and throughout Kansas during their high school careers. Enrolled as a freshman this fall where her sister attends at Texas A&M in College Station, Texas, McKenzie and Katelyn will again be side-byside throwing the javelin as McKenzie also signed on as a student athlete with the Aggie’s track team. Her parents are excited to watch them both compete on the college level.

McKenzie Fairchild

Running and Records Go Hand in Hand

Clay Shively is a Wichita Trinity Academy senior who is quickly becoming a well-known track star with record-breaking runs. Recently, his time of 14 minutes, 42.60 seconds in a 5-kilometer course broke a Kansas high school state record, plus, this past year in the mile event, Clay broke a 58-year-old record held by Kansan and Olympian Jim Ryun with a time of 4:04.95. Clay has competed against the fastest class of high school milers in history at national indoor competitions in New York City and Boston, where he finished in third and fifth place. Other notable finishes include his two Kansas state titles in the 800- and 1600-meter events, and he became the state all-time leader in both the 1600- and 3200-meter races. This past June, Clay ran a 4:01 mile at the Hoka Festival of Miles in St. Louis that placed him as the second fastest miler in Kansas history.

In his early school years, Clay had set his sights on playing football until a knee surgery in the eighth grade kept him on the sidelines. Clay’s friend, Ian Carroll, convinced him to go out for cross country and track, and midway through that Trinity freshman season, he moved up to the varsity squad. With his speed, Clay has virtually been unstoppable on the track and has also helped Trinity teammates win several track championships.

Clay has the reputation of being an amazing kid, both on and off the course. Mom Jennifer Shively says, “Clay is extremely disciplined and committed to small things that I believe make a big difference, such as nutrition, hydration, stretching, mental wellness, sleep, habit tracking and watching races. And I believe what makes Clay so terrific is his deep abiding faith.”

His father, Clayton, also speaks of his great faith, plus the abounding love his son has for family, friends and teammates. His father exclaims, “Clay has a strong love for Jesus, is super positive, loves to celebrate others and is a great brother to his five siblings. He is also an honor student and is super humble.”

In fall 2024, Clay will attend national cross-country powerhouse Northern Arizona University, where he will undoubtedly be a team favorite to watch, touching many lives both on and off the track.

Clay Shively

Read and Rise With Storytime Village

Written by Julie Hying

In the wake of September and National Literacy Month, a new wave of passion and inspiration for promoting literacy arises among Wichita’s family members. According to Prisca Barnes, president and CEO of Storytime Village: “The Read and Rise Program is finding its phoenix moment to reignite the community’s passion for children’s literacy.” That opportunity’s catalyst will begin on November 1 with an event of the same name, the Read and Rise Breakfast Gala. The event will occur at Wichita State University in the Rhatigan Center and will inspire a renewed sense of community-driven financial support. “The Gala helps raise the funds to maintain our critical literacy programs, especially our Read and Rise family and community literacy program.”

The Read and Rise program was originally funded through a grant from the Kansas Health Foundation. With a pre-K through third-grade focus, community readers gathered to read and distribute books, promoting cultural literacy. These efforts also included school-wide book distribution to create a culture of literacy in the entire school. The final component of the program was for the family. Family literacy night workshops provided guidance and enrichment activities. The fun-filled evenings engaged families in new ways to incorporate reading in the home and supported family members.

The event will include delicious foods, live art, a children’s choir, auctions and special guests. It will be a morning of celebration honoring ambassadors and organizations that support children’s literacy. This year’s Literacy Champion Award will be presented to Jaime Nix, director of Wichita Public Libraries. Literacy Legacy Award recipients include Bridging the Word Gap of Kansas City, KS, the Kansas Children’s Cabinet in Topeka, and the Wichita Literacy Coalition. Barnes shares that as Storytime Village approaches its 15th anniversary, she hopes to find partners to “be the village and support the Read and Rise family and community literacy program, promoting access to books, literacy programming, and family engagement.” Barnes envisions new and renewed support, with “both individuals and organizations serving as Read and Rise Ambassadors at the forefront who support these everimportant endeavors.

“Our breakfast this fall is meant to galvanize our sense of cultural literacy and create a resurgence in the program,” Barnes reiterates. The current and past honorees inspire others with their work, commitment and dedication to promote children’s literacy.

The inception of the Read and Rise program in 2014 paved the way for people to come together to inspire a lifelong love of reading for underserved children and families. The first Read and Rise Breakfast Gala was also in 2014, and celebrated “people and organizations who rise to the occasion in supporting children’s literacy statewide,” Barnes adds. This November, the tradition of honoring worthy literacy advocates will continue at the Read and Rise Breakfast Gala.

November 1, 9 a.m.

Beggs Ballroom

For tickets go to storytimevillage.org

Read and Rise Breakfast Gala

WSU Rhatigan Center

Written by Dr. John Lasak | Wichita Ear Clinic

Written by Dr. John Lasak | Wichita Ear Clinic

What Do You Do When Hearing Aids No Longer Help?

Hearing Loss Impact

Hearing loss can make communicating with family and friends difficult, especially when it progresses. Some people will compensate by looking at lips, facial expressions, and strategically placing themselves in the room. However, as the hearing worsens, hearing aids are necessary to stay engaged and keep up with conversation. When a person’s hearing loss becomes too great for traditional hearing aids, they realize they cannot socialize with their family and friends as they did in the past. This decreased socialization, and at times isolation, is not healthy for the mind, and significantly decreases quality of life.

The Anatomy of Hearing Loss

Hearing loss can occur anywhere within the auditory circuit, including the ear canal, eardrum, hearing bones, cochlea (the hearing organ), and the hearing nerve. Hearing loss due to the eardrum or hearing bones is frequently repaired with surgery. However, most hearing loss is sensorineural and caused by loss of cochlear hair cells. Hair cell loss cannot be treated with medication or surgery. Hearing aids are therefore required; however when the loss becomes too severe, they are no longer effective.

The Solution

When speech understanding is compromised, and hearing aids no longer adequately help, we need to directly stimulate the hearing nerve and bypass the damaged cochlear hair cells. This is what a cochlear implant does. It directly stimulates the hearing nerve so the sound information can be transmitted to the brain and interpreted as speech. Cochlear implants are approved for adults and children, and are done in an outpatient setting. Patient satisfaction is typically high, and one or both ears may be implanted.

Why Wichita Ear Clinic?

At the Wichita Ear Clinic we have completed over 700 cochlear implants. All hearing testing to determine cochlear implant candidacy is done on site at the Wichita Ear Clinic, as is all postoperative implant programming and speech therapy and rehabilitation. You and your family will be counseled regarding the candidacy process, surgery, implant programming, and expectations by our cochlear implant team. We will be your source for any cochlear implant needs for life. To see if you or a loved one is an implant candidate, please make an appointment with our team.

Hearing Health Q&A at Wichita

are not alone. If you are interested in learning more about hearing implants – how they

or your loved one struggling with your hearing even when using

During this time we will:

• Discuss hearing loss and implantable technology

• Discuss how a hearing implant can benefit you in your everyday life

• Have a Q&A session

Register at www.cochlear.com/us/events or call 800.790.8427 to ensure you receive the latest event updates.

Questions? Contact Colleen Kinsella at 720.785.0703 or email ckinsella@cochlear.com for more details.

Written by Caroline Jones

A Night and Day Difference

Former Opioid Addict Credits Suboxone, Center for Change for ‘Better

For Eric, the first step toward getting clean was an unexpected phone call from his dad with an offer to live with his aunt and uncle in Kansas. His dad got him a plane ticket and took him to the airport from a rehabilitation center in Florida. “The opportunity was presented to me pretty much on the spot, and I was in such a bad place I just took it. I was like, ‘Okay, let’s try this,’ and it worked.”

He enrolled at Center for Change in Wichita. It was the first step toward what would become a life free from drug addiction. Part of Center for Change’s program for Eric included Suboxone, a prescription medicine used by medical professionals to treat adult opioid addiction as part of a complete treatment program. “I did a lot of damage to my brain that changed the chemical balance of my brain,” he said. “To me, it’s something that I need to function and live a normal life, and I just accepted that. Some people look at this as a crutch, but to me, it’s a part of my life that changes my life for the better. I probably wouldn’t even have a life without it, to be honest.”

Since he got clean, Eric has found joy in the past six years of normal, everyday life. “It’s just a lot better. I can hold a job for six years, I can save money, I’m a productive member of society. None of those things were possible prior to Center for Change.”

Eric Ward is just a normal Kansan, but he has worked hard to earn that title.

Originally from North Town, New Jersey, Eric started taking Roxicodone, a prescribed opioid painkiller, in his sophomore year of high school after landing on his head and pulling muscles in his back during a snowboarding injury. When his prescription ended, he didn’t immediately recognize his symptoms. “I felt sick, and I thought at that time that I had the flu,” he said. “One of my friends had found prescription pills in his parents’ medicine cabinet, and I took one and immediately felt better. That was the time I found out I was in withdrawal.” After multiple relapses, he eventually traded prescription pills for heroin because it was cheaper and easier to find.

This began a long and difficult path through 11 different in-patient rehabilitation centers that could never fully help him. “If somebody goes because a family member forces you to, it’s still worth going because you’re going to pick up some tools along the way that can help you in the future, but chances of success are pretty low. It’s really not going to make a difference until the person’s ready to do it on their own.”

One of Eric’s favorite drug-free memories was meeting his newborn nephew two years ago in New Jersey. He said that rebuilding his family relationships has become a big part of the gratitude he finds in his new life. “I have the ability to feel that joy now, and I never could before,” he said. “You know, my sister had a baby, and I got to meet him, and we’re in good standing. Before, none of that mattered. Not that it didn’t matter, I just had something greater to me that took precedence over everything else.”

When he’s not at work, Eric likes to chill, work on cars, watch movies, and invest in his family relationships. Center for Change and Dr. Greg Lakin helped make sobriety a longterm reality for Eric, and he encourages others to seek their help. “Give it a try,” he said. “Dr. Lakin is fantastic, and this conversation wouldn’t even be happening without him. He’s a huge advocate for getting clean, he takes it seriously, he cares, and Center for Change is great.”

Eric Ward

With Renee Shahan Assistant Production Manager

Written by Julie Underwood Burton

Bringing Job Opportunities to Wichita

NORC at the University of Chicago is a nonpartisan research organization that has studied almost every aspect of the human experience and every major news event for more than eight decades. Today, NORC partners with government, corporate and nonprofit clients around the world to provide the objective research and expertise to inform the critical decisions facing society.

Q. How many call centers does NORC operate? Why did NORC choose Wichita as a call center?

A. NORC currently operates three call centers across the U.S., including Wichita, Albuquerque, New Mexico and Chicago, Illinois. NORC internal experts and an external partner assessed more than 1,100 markets in the U.S. and looked at more than 100 quantitative factors including time zone, transport and technology infrastructure indexes, population density, call center employment saturation rates, ease of travel and cost of living. After meeting with local chambers of commerce and employment agencies, plus assessing suitable and available real estate in each of the final candidate locations, Wichita was a clear front-runner as an ideal location for NORC’s core business.

Q. How many job positions have been created?

A. NORC currently has 312 employees in Wichita. We anticipate the Wichita headcount to increase to 450 by the end of 2023.

Q. What are the most important reasons individuals will want to work at NORC’s call center?

A. NORC is a mission-driven organization that knows employees do their best work when they are happy, healthy and engaged. Working with us, you can make a meaningful impact, because our research informs policies and products that make life better for people across the country and around the world. We also offer competitive pay with rewarding job perks, and an inclusive, collaborative work environment.

Q. What types of positions will you be filling, and what is a typical day like at NORC?

A. NORC believes in fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment that encourages growth, innovation and collaboration. As we continue to expand operations, we are actively seeking talented individuals to join our team. We offer a range of positions at various levels, each with its own unique set of responsibilities and growth opportunities. The most common position that we hire for is the customer service representative, which is an entry-level, part-time opportunity. A typical workday would mean talking to people across the United States in an effort to record their opinions on topics prevalent in our society today.

For information on current employment opportunities, visit norcjobs.org or email nowhiring@norc.org.

NORC at the University of Chicago

Work that Matters

At NORC, the TSSO (Telephone Survey and Support Operations) staff are energetic, results-driven, and vital to our nationwide survey research team. Our Customer Service Representatives are primarily responsible for screening and interviewing respondents over the phone about issues such as health care, employment, and education. Our work is meaningful and makes an impact nationwide.

Prevention Programs for Children’s Mental Health

Written by Eric Litwiller MHA Director of Development and Communications

Creating Brighter Futures

And Saving Tax Dollars

No green spaces. Food deserts. Bad schools. Lack of good jobs. These issues and more are known as social determinants of health. And they all contribute to mental illness.

To be sure, it is known that most mental illnesses have a strong biological or genetic component. Everything from anxiety and depression to substance use has wellidentified genetic markers. But a person who is biologically predisposed to mental illness might never manifest those illnesses if they have opportunities and easy access to the best schools, jobs and healthcare. Whereas that same person — living in an underprivileged environment — might show symptoms of their mental illness earlier or more strongly due to lack of those same opportunities.

For this reason, prevention programs remain a vital part of the children’s division at Mental Health Association.

Catching our city’s youth early on when we know they are living in a difficult environment provides our entire region the chance to offer these kids the tools to cope with their situation, rather than succumb to their lack of access to a better quality of life.

Given the choice between spending $1 now or $10 tomorrow, it’s easy to punt the ball. After all, there’s always another tomorrow. But imagine the thousands of your tax dollars that would be saved each year for every individual who no longer utilized law enforcement, hospital emergency rooms, and the social safety net. All because you joined companies like Aetna, Intrust Bank, and Rusty Eck Ford in funding proactive prevention instead of retroactive treatment. 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.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2024

MARK ARTS

LEARN MORE, SECURE TICKETS & BECOME A SPONSOR: WICHITA.EDU/BARTONBEYOND

THE VIOLET CLOSET

316.612.6988

Location - WSU Barton School of Business

Photography - Tobie Andrews Photography

Models - Impact Models

Styling - Jody Klein and Amy Palser

Hair/Makeup - Crave Beauty Academy

Christine T, Kendra H, Madison S , KiMia K, Estie, Mireya A, Maribel N, Katia F, Itzel C

MARKETPLACE

316.358.0894

50TH ANNIVERSARY PARTY FOR TOM AND JOY MCGRAW

Home of Elyse and Luke Schwertfeger

Kathy and Bruce Winegar

Lydia, Tamy, Luke, Elyse, Karen and Ty Schwertfeger

Debbie and Jay Hinkel

Bruce and Kit Donavan

Lewis and Nancy Erickson, Betty and Steve Slusher

Jude, Max and Ruby Palser, Luke and Elyse Schwertfeger, Amy and Brian Palser, and Joy and Tom McGraw

Tom and Joy McGraw

KT and Julie Thiessen

Tom McGraw and Gerry Holmon

Debbie Wendt, Karen and Lydia Schwertfeger and Jacqueline Raymer

Jon and Teresa Harrell

David and Patsy May, Joy McGraw, and Debbie Wendt

THE LBD, ETC.

SPLURGE! WINE AND DINE Redler Institute of Culinary Arts

Danae Loomis, Tom Spiers, Anna Poolma, Scott Peggie, Alicia Peña and Chef Luis Peña

Lisa Wilt, Linsey Friesen and Kelly Snedden

Tom Borrego and Kelly Snedden

John and Julie Dombo, Margaret and Tom Graff

Ann Ross, Dr. Kim Krull and Dr. Dennis Ross

Tim and Beth Rohrig

Dawn Tucker, Chef Luis Peña, Debi Mullins and Holly Bump

Patricia Thompson, Margaret Graff, Cheryl Wells, Nancy Knapp, Margie Collins, Tom Graff, and John and Julie Dombo

Victor Devor, Dennis and Debi Mullins, Beth and Mike George

Joy and Tom McGraw, Luke and Elyse Schwertferger, and Karen and Ty Schwertferger

Kelly Snedden, Cindy Rabe and Jennifer Green-Miracle

Dawn Tucker, Megan McGraw, Stephanie Sutton and Patricia Thompson

Written by Paige Feikert

Start Working That Stein-Lifting Arm

Oktoberfest-inspired celebrations have made fall the best time of year to celebrate beer, and ICT Bloktoberfest is bringing local brews together for festival goers to experience them all at one event.

This year, Xclusive Events is partnering with the City of Wichita for the eighth annual ICT Bloktoberfest celebration on October 13 and 14 at Naftzger Park. This is the first year that Naftzger Park will host the event, providing more space to expand the already popular festival.

Friday night is all about beer, with one of the largest beer events in Wichita: Beer Fest. The event is for adults only and requires a ticket, (plus there are options for VIP tickets) which includes a tasting stein and unlimited samples of local, regional and German beers. Many of Wichita’s local breweries will bring signature Oktoberfest brews to the event.

VIPs can find local liquor brands and distilleries in the VIP zone at Beer Fest. Ron Knackstedt, director of marketing and events with Xclusive Events, says Beer Fest sold out last year with 700 tickets sold, and — despite increasing the capacity to 900 tickets this year — he’s expecting another sold-out event.

“We always try to add something new and exciting every year, just to keep it fresh,” Knackstedt said. “I think that’s what makes it successful: People are not always expecting the same old thing. We are going to add something new to it each year.”

While Friday is for adults only, ICT Bloktoberfest becomes kid-anddog friendly on Saturday with a festival geared toward families. Saturday’s events include an all-day local vendor market and food truck rally, live music, wiener dog races, the ICT Dad Bod contest and much more.

“Sometimes these big beer festivals can be for adults only, so that’s one thing we like to do with Bloktoberfest, yes, have Friday be an adult day, and let Saturday be a kid friendly, dog friendly, family friendly day for free,” Knackstedt said.

The wiener dog races and the ICT Dad Bod contest have generated a lot of excitement in the last several years, bringing both bigger crowds and more contestants.

“The last few years we started the ICT Dad Bod competition, and it is hilarious. I think last year we probably had three thousand people standing there watching the Dad Bod competition,”

Knackstedt said. “The kids love the wiener dog races; that’s always a huge hit. There are always a couple hundred dogs out there, so it’s a great time.”

Bloktoberfest

October 13–14

Naftzger Park

Purchase Beer Fest tickets at ictbloktoberfest.com

Oktoberfest at Revolutsia

Another business is bringing the authentic flavors and atmosphere of the iconic German festival to Wichita. Manu and Austin English, owners of German restaurant Prost and neighboring Ze German Markt, are celebrating the season with their fifth annual German-inspired Oktoberfest celebration, October 5–7, at Revolutsia. The event will feature three authentic festbiers from Munich, German music, dancing and German food — all served by staff dressed in traditional lederhosen and dirndl.

“All of our beer comes from Germany, all of our food is handmade just like from Germany, all of our tables come from Germany, our glassware is from Germany, the beer is typically poured right in the glass, so there are little things we’re doing to make it as authentic as we can to Germany,” Austin said. “We want to give that, ‘Hey, I’ve been to Oktoberfest,’ feel to those who have never been.”

Each ticket will get you entrance to the event, your first liter of beer, and a branded glass stein imported from Germany for you to keep. Each liter of festbier after the first will cost $14, which is the everyday rate at Prost. Entrance is free for those who aren’t drinking, and food will be available for purchase (including vegetarian and vegan options), as well as all the favorite snacks and German items stocked at Ze German Markt.

Follow Prost (@prost_wichita) and Ze German Markt (@zegermanmarkt) on social media for ticket information.

Queen Beekeeper

Bees had long been on the radar of Michelle Knight. Though her grandfather had kept bees, his passing when she was 2 years old denied her the opportunity to see his operation. So when her family moved from Atlanta to Wichita in 2018 and purchased acreage suitable to the task, the wife and mother of three decided it was time to give her ambitious endeavor wings.

Knight recently completed this year’s honey harvest, which happens to coincide with September’s National Honey Month. Its purpose it to promote national beekeeping, the beekeeping industry and honey as a natural and beneficial sweetener.

As the proud owner of three hives, Knight now understands what all the buzz was about. The hives have become an integral part of her small hobby farm, pollinating her sizable garden while co-existing alongside a modest brood of chickens.

“I’ve always had a general interest in the farm-to-table food experiences,” Knight said. “I’d always been interested in honey bees, so after we moved, I started looking into it and decided to start a couple hives.

“I love their connection to nature and their importance to the environment. It has always fascinated me how the whole hive works together to survive. They are one of nature’s great wonders.”

Knight launched her small-scale operation in 2019 with big hopes but no experience. What little she knew was gleaned primarily from self-help books and online tutorials. Her startup option of choice was to purchase a pair of nucleus hives, which included a mated queen with bees already housed in hives containing four to five frames. Each frame serves a particular

Written by John Huthmacher

Andover resident Michelle Knight dons her beekeeping garb.

purpose, providing storage spaces for the queen to bear and store her eggs and for worker bees to store honey pollen. Other start-up options included buying the bees and queen package separately and shaking them gently into their new home, or setting out swarm traps to attract migrant bees that have outgrown their former hive habitat.

Knight’s three hives house thousands of bees, which produce between one to four gallons of honey annually, along with wax she uses to make soap, candles and lip balm. The bees produce the honey from spring through fall, which Knight harvests between late summer and early fall. Larger operations may harvest more than once during a season, though rotations and months vary from keeper to keeper.

The typical lifespan of a bee is just three weeks during summer months, whereas bees hibernating in the winter survive four to five months. With so much to do and so little time to do it, a bee’s life is a busy one.

“They go through different jobs throughout their lives,” Knight said. “They may be an attendant or nurse queen at first, then graduate to janitor bee and clean out the hive, removing dead bees. Guard bees will sting you if you get too close to the hive, and worker bees build the honeycomb and store the pollen.”

To sustain the bees during the winter, beekeepers must be careful not to overharvest their honey supply, which bees subsist upon during winter months. Though condensed sugar water fondant may be used to supplement or replace a depleted honey supply, Knight said the mix can have a negative impact on the taste and texture of the new honey produced by the bees.

“It will help them survive through the winter, but it’s not the best honey to harvest if it is made from sugar water,” she said. “Taking too much honey from them can starve the bees. They live on what they have. I try to harvest in late summer to early fall so they have time to make more honey going into winter.”

Honey harvested by Knight is purified using a hand cranked metal extractor that filters the honey through a mesh strainer and cheese cloth to extract impurities such as small hive beetles, varroa mites and dead bees. Collecting the honey can be a tricky proposition, as bees don’t take kindly to strangers extracting honey from their hives. And though

she wears a beekeeping suit for protection, stings remain an ongoing threat when harvesting honey.

“My first time I did it, I had panic moments with the bees swarming around my head,” she said. “When I realized, ‘I can actually do this,’ I took a few deep breaths and was fine. You really can’t be allergic to them because you are going to get stung every now and then.”

Caring for bees can be difficult and challenging, with time management being perhaps the greatest challenge for keepers. Opening the hives every few weeks during summer months to monitor honey output can be time consuming and dangerous, depending on the aggressiveness of the hives’ occupants. Clearly, beekeeping is not for everyone. But to Knight and those willing to do what it takes to maintain their operations, it can be a rewarding and fascinating journey from one season to the next. Perhaps the only certainty in beekeeping is that there are many opinions circulating on just how best to handle them. For as long as beekeeping has existed, there are few absolutes beyond “handle with care” that are universally accepted by keepers.

“One thing you’ll see in forums is that if you ask 10 beekeepers a question, you’re going to get 10 different answers,” Knight said. “People have been doing it differently for hundreds and hundreds of years.”

Though she has no aspirations of growing her beekeeping operation beyond its hobby farm status anytime soon, Knight continues to educate herself on bee behavior

through online beekeeper forums and reading materials. She now seeks out local beekeepers whenever possible when questions arise, hoping to make herself the best steward she can be to those she cares for on her acreage.

“There’s nothing like the hands-on experience from someone who can take you through the hive,” she said.“Great Plains Beekeepers has great resources. I’ve learned a ton reading “Beekeeping for Dummies” and the ”Beekeeping Bible.”

“Keeping bees is a lot of work. ‘Busy bees’ is an honest term. They never stop.”

Michelle Knight cuts honeycomb into squares. The silver container is the extractor for harvesting liquid honey.

A package of bees that the Knight had shipped through the postal service.

Honey after harvest is ready to be strained before bottling.

Deck the Halls for a Cause

Midian Shrine Hosts Ninth Annual Feztival of Trees

If you’re a Christmas decor lover, you won’t want to miss the ninth annual Midian Shrine Feztival of Trees, November 17–21 and 24–26. Each year organizers decorate dozens of Christmas trees in different themes — from traditional trimmings and fancy frills to sports teams and children’s themes.

“Our event has all kinds of Christmas trees in all shapes and sizes. Each tree is decorated with a different story and theme — and they are all elaborate,” said event chairwoman Terri Wells. “There are also bookcases, shelving units and other items decorated with holiday ornaments.”

While the trees are a joy to peruse, the best part is that you may get to take one of them home. Buy a raffle ticket for $1, or 25 tickets for $20, then use your tickets to vote on your favorite tree. A raffle drawing November 26 at 3:30 p.m. will decide the winner of each of the trees. There are anywhere from 25 to 40 trees to be raffled off, plus gift basket raffles.

While you’re there, grab a bite to eat at the Snowflake Cafe, get a treat at the Sweet Shoppe, and do some Christmas shopping at the Feztival Marketplace. Don’t forget to grab a selfie with Santa!

“If you love Christmas, you have to visit the Feztival of Trees,” Wells said. “It is a gorgeous way to kick off the holidays. You have to see it in person to truly enjoy this beautiful, Christmassy wonderland.”

Proceeds from Feztival of Trees benefit Midian Shrine, helping them attain their philanthropic mission of providing specialized pediatric care at the 22 Shriners Hospitals for Children in the United States, Mexico and Canada. The Shriners Hospitals provide treatment for orthopedic conditions, burns, spinal cord injuries, club feet, scoliosis, and cleft palate reconstruction. Care at Shriners Hospitals is provided at no cost to the patient and their family, regardless of the family’s ability to pay.

The Midian Shrine currently provides medical care to about 400 children in southern Kansas. The Shrine has been a part of the Wichita community since 1909 and has over 2,000 members in its 43 units across the southern Kansas region, including Eureka, Liberal and Garden City.

“For over 100 years the Shriners have helped children receive the medical care they need at no cost to the family,” Wells said. “It is tear-jerking to hear the families’ stories. The Shriners take the financial stress off of families, allowing them to focus on their kids and help their children heal.”

Feztival of Trees

November 17–21 and 24–26

Friday 9 a.m.–7 p.m.

Saturday 9 a.m.–8 p.m.

Sunday 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

Monday and Tuesday 5–8 p.m.

Admission $5 (unlimited re-entries)

Children 10 and under: Free

Midian Shrine

130 N. Topeka

Wichita, KS 67202

Find them on Facebook:

Midian Shrine Feztival of Trees

Enhanced Wellness: Helping Clients Feel and Look Good

Weight loss, hormone optimization, IV Therapy among clinic’s offerings

Just because you’re aging doesn’t mean you have to feel exhausted all day. It doesn’t mean you have to endure sleepless nights. And it doesn’t mean that you have to gain unwanted pounds. It might just mean that — whether male or female — you could use some hormone optimization in your life.

Enhanced Wellness, a clinic in Derby, has been helping people optimize their hormone levels, as well as shed weight, rejuvenate their skin and even get an extra boost of energy. Their team of nurses, led by nurse practitioner Melanie Hall, believe in helping clients achieve their desired results through a holistic approach.

‘I went to Mel about weight loss. She was great! Kind, caring — and this girl knows her stuff. She, too, has done the weight loss journey, so she knows the struggle is real. Helpful tips and encouragement to keep going.’

— Christine, Google review

From her own personal experience, Hall shares her clients’ health goals. She successfully lost 72 pounds on her own medical weight-management program, and has seen her staff have the same success.

It is Hall’s personal achievement that equips her to encourage her clients, who come to her not just for a lower number on the scale, but for individual happiness on a meaningful level. Hall remains motivated to see others achieve success just as she did herself. Enhanced Wellness’ growth has come mainly through word-of-mouth, thanks to the testimonies of other clients who have lost weight, gained energy and are living their best lives. Hall’s clients feel and see the difference throughout multiple sessions with a trusted provider. “Their success invites others in the community to experience the same level of confidence and health,” Hall said.

Designed as a full-service clinic for every part of the weightloss experience, Enhanced Wellness is amplified by Hall’s emphasis on holistic personal success and beauty. With programs for both women and men, many clients come to Enhanced Wellness for their expertise in weight loss or hormone optimization and find they offer so much more to help in their health goals.

According to Hall, many clients seek her help after visiting their doctor and hearing that their aches and pains, weight gain, trouble sleeping and low energy levels are just part of getting older. “You don’t have to live with that type of life as you age,” she said. “By getting your hormones balanced, you will start feeling better and losing weight naturally.”

Hall and her staff provide free consultations. Clients can begin a tailored medical weight management program designed to fit their specific needs. In addition, Enhanced Wellness offers intravenous (IV) infusions that promote energy, in addition to aesthetic services and more. Hall and team offer a holistic approach with attention to the entire wellness process, caring for clients at every stage of their journey.

Where to Find Them

Enhanced Wellness

1701 E. Madison Derby, KS 67037

316.358.9780

Holiday Open House

Thursday, November 2, 5–8 p.m.

Services

Botox

Fillers

Lasers

Morpheus 8

IV therapy

Hormone Optimization

Domestic Violence Doesn’t Discriminate

For Women in Crisis, Amazing Grace Expands Programs to Include Art, Equine Therapy

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. As the founder of Amazing Grace Discipleship Ministries, I’ve seen my fair share of domestic violence cases over the last five years. One of the missions of Amazing Grace is to help women coming out of domestic violence find a safe space to heal.

The statistics keep growing, and every time a woman calls I pray she chooses to leave then. If she doesn’t, she may not get another chance. One in four women experience severe physical violence by an intimate partner at some point in their lives, and what’s staggering is that one in five homicide victims are killed by their domestic partner.

Domestic violence doesn’t discriminate. It may be a CEO of a company or a waitress at your local restaurant.

Amazing Grace is partnering with organizations to spread the message and educate women on the signs of domestic violence and the resources available. Domestic violence is more than just physical: Many women deal with emotional, economic, psychological, sexual and verbal abuse. These wounds can last a lifetime. During the month of October, Amazing Grace will be running an awareness campaign across television, billboards, radio and print to help women find the resources they desperately need. The campaign is called Domestic Violence Doesn’t Discriminate and a resource page has been set up at domesticviolencedoesntdiscriminate.com.

Most women who have entered the outreach or residential program have tried to leave many times. Amazing Grace wants to help women heal from their past abuse and move forward in freedom. We deal with the heart of the matter or root issue that had them stay in a domestic violence situation. Most women feel helpless, like they have no way out, and continue to suffer in silence. Amazing Grace utilizes a curriculum and counseling that focuses directly on healing trauma and helping women find their identity so they can move forward in freedom. The program has truly transformed lives.

Amazing Grace provides a safe place, hope and healing to women and their children coming out of unthinkable circumstances like addiction, sex trafficking and domestic violence. Housing, resources, biblical counseling, and life and job skills have always been a mainstay of the program. As we grow, we also are expanding our services and therapies.

We recently partnered with Catherine Smith and her program, Walking Free Equine and Art Ministry Center, which utilizes faith-based equine sessions, pottery and art to transform hearts through Jesus Christ. When women come out of

traumatic situations, often their trust with other people has been broken. The first step in gaining trust is sometimes through an animal. The horses are very calm and kind, and they help the women we serve truly start to trust again.

I experienced this healing encounter firsthand when I was having a rough day and walked to the stables as I was praying. When I sat down, a horse leaned against me and touched my face. It was like an unexpected hug! It can also be healing to do pottery and art, working out issues through your hands. We’re so grateful for the increasing ways we’ve been able to help women in crisis. And we’re always thankful to the community members who help make it possible through the giving of their time and money. Watching grace in action — whether it’s seeing women and children set free or experiencing the community support for our mission — is always exciting.

For more information about Amazing Grace Discipleship Ministries, visit gracemultipiedks.com. If you are in a domestic violence situation, go to domesticviolencedoesntdiscriminate.com, gracemultipliedks.com or call 316.619.3932. Help stop the violence.

Written by Rebecca Billups | Amazing Grace

Amazing Grace has partnered with Walking Free Equine and Art Ministry Center as part of their program to help women and children in crisis situations.

Written by Alexis Evans

Q. What sets Best Body Shop apart from others in the area?

A. We work hard to provide educational materials for our customers and for social media followers. Our goal is to pull back the curtain from the body shop world, and inform our customer on what is going on with our business and others in the area. We want to do more than just fix peoples’ cars, we want them to know what we did, why we did it, and the ethics of how it should be done. The average car today is a highly engineered vehicle, and there is a very specific way they are supposed to be handled. Other shops aren’t prioritizing that, and we want customers to know about this.

Q. How do you educate your consumers?

A.

1. We leverage all of our social media accounts with a huge amount of content focusing on consumer advocacy and education.

2. We regularly hold in-shop classes. As an example, last month we had a seminar on electric vehicles, covering the potential dangers — including the possibility of fire. With these kind of vehicles, there is a high risk, as they are highpowered electric devices.

3. We let our customers know we are not scared or intimidated by insurance companies, and that we will be their advocate when the tension with those companies comes up.

Q. What challenges have you faced in running a body shop with this level of transparency?

A. The biggest challenge is that, in order to do the right thing, you have to be an outlier. It’s not a comfortable position to be in, and many body shops hate what we do because it exposes their bad behavior. But other body shops like ours throughout the nation have reached out to thank us for choosing to do the right thing, and for educating the public. They want to do what we do, and when they discover our platform, they feel more encouraged to keep going.

Q. How do you approach hiring and training technicians and employees so that they know and understand your high priority for customer transparency?

A. To get good help, good training is essential. We have found it’s easier and better to hire people from outside the industry and then train them within our standards. Because of this, we place more emphasis on background and trainability, rather than experience.

With Clay Hoberecht Owner of Best Body Shop, 2023 Executive of the Year Nominee, “Fender Bender” magazine

Q. Do you have a recent repair you’re particularly proud of?

A. We recently repaired a 2016 Subaru. When you pull the repair procedures for this vehicle, there are detailed specifics about how to measure and remove the steering column (see photo above). In this case, the column was totally collapsed, so if we hadn’t followed protocol, we would have been sending our client out on the streets driving a potential life risk. To my knowledge, there are very few shops in Kansas that also follow manufacturer procedures, so if this customer had not come to us, they could very well be traveling around with a collapsed steering column. Subaru even specified that this step is essential, even for something as minor as hitting a mailbox. Every single car has specifics like this. However, many body shops not only pay no attention to this, but purposely ignore it, as they are under the thumb of their insurance, so they follow their protocol instead of the manufacturer’s guidelines. You can watch the Facebook live here to get the whole story:

fb.watch/mjuHnYoizt

Ready to learn more from Best Body Shop? They have an active social media presence on Instagram and Facebook, with daily live broadcasts and valuable insider information! Follow them here:

A technician measures the collapsible steering column on a Subaru. Best Body Shop follows manufacturer repair guidelines, down to the smallest detail.

eagle Scouts Paul, Patrick, Nick, Tom and Joey Attwater

Written by Caroline Jones

Paul Attwater remembered taking his four sons, Patrick, Nick, Tom and Joey Attwater, to go wild caving in Oklahoma when they were younger. He guided his sons down into the cave system, each person carrying water and three sources of light in case they got stuck. Each of them dragged themselves through a tunnel that was 18 inches wide and filled with 6 to 8 inches of mud, dropping immediately into a room of cold water that rose to their necks. After passing through more rooms, they came to the “Greased Pig,” another tunnel that they had to squeeze through to get out of the cave.

Each son walked away from the challenge ready to go back and do it again, thanks to a generational Attwater grit fostered in the Boy Scouts of America. “My dad would always tell me that, along the path, there’s so many people who quit,” Paul said. “Every day somebody else is quitting, and if you stick with it, if you stay the course, you’ll be successful.”

True to their father and grandfather’s value of perseverance, all four sons passed through every stage of Boy Scouts, earning the rank of Eagle Scout like their father. From a parent’s perspective, Paul said the most important parts of Scouting were the lessons his sons learned about independence. “When you have those things where everybody goes, ‘Oh I could never do that,’ and you know that you did it, you just know that made you stronger, and you can face whatever the world hands you,” he said. “I care about my sons deeply, but I don’t have to worry about them as much, because I feel like they’ll figure it out.”

Today, Patrick, Nick, Tom and Joey are all “figuring it out” in different careers in various parts of the country, and each of them can connect their professional success to their time in Scouting.

Patrick Attwater, 36, started the San Antonio- and Austin-based solar energy company One80 Solar in 2014, which develops, designs, engineers, constructs and operates commercial and industrial-scale solar energy projects. “The unique thing about Scouting that I think a lot of people don’t understand is that it is actually more than just spending time camping outdoors,” Patrick said. “I think it was an incredible training ground for being an entrepreneur. I mean, learning how to organize, learning how to lead a group of people … there’s just not many other places you can do that before you’re 18.”

Nick Attwater, 34, works for an educational technology company in Ferndale, Michigan, training teachers on how to use new instructional technology in their classrooms. He connected his six years of leadership opportunities at Quivira Scout Ranch to his professional passions. “Because of those experiences of teaching and learning and practicing and working with youth, it really helped me inform my career trajectory in education,” Nick said.

Tom Attwater, 33, is a freelance filmmaker and photographer based in Missoula, Montana, where he pursues a life in outdoor recreation through his love for storytelling and art. He said that many of the

skills he uses today came from his Scouting career. “It taught me how to deal with adversity, how to deal with a lot of different personalities. I also heard stories from other people in Scouting who found deeper connections with the outdoors based on their life experience,” Tom said.

Joey Attwater, 28, is the chef de cuisine at Lenoir Restaurant in Austin, Texas, where he manages all recipe development, ordering, hiring and day-to-day operations for the kitchen. In addition to learning how to sharpen knives and start a good fire, he said there are many Scouting skills that he uses every day as a chef. “Scouting teaches you a lot of leadership skills, and learning how to run a kitchen and run a team has come in very handy.”

Patrick, Nick, Tom and Joey all described their experience in Scouting as unique and valuable, and each of them have fond family memories from Boy Scouts. For the Attwaters, it was always about the family aspect – about making time for each other on a weekly basis.

“So oftentimes, our lives get filled up with many activities,” Paul said. “Scouting does take time, but a lot of that time was spent with my sons, not watching my sons.” He enjoyed being a part of the moments where his sons learned leadership skills that would follow them into their careers. “We’re all rowing in the same direction,” he said. “We’re all helping each other, and I think that’s important.”

Quivira Council and Morgan Stanley are proud to bring you Eagle Scouts in Action, a monthly showcase of community leaders who are banding together to make a difference in our community! If you are interested in joining Scouting or have an Eagle Scout in Action you think deserves honoring, call us at 316.264.3386.

THE FLINT HILLS GROUP AT MORGAN STANLEY

Cox Farm Still Serving up Local Produce, Fall Fun and More

Cox Farm is a family owned and operated business providing fresh produce to Wichita and surrounding areas since 1924. It’s like having your own garden without all the work.

Founders Roy and Daisy Cox began Cox Farm as a roadside stand where they would sell their produce. Throughout the years they became well known in the community for their high-quality homegrown produce. Eventually daughter, Helen, and sonin-law, Charlie, became actively involved helping them expand the farm, and the first barn produce store was built. Customers came from all over the Wichita and surrounding area for delicious produce and friendly customer service.

But in 1991, Cox Farm was destroyed by a tornado, and everything —buildings, trees and equipment — was gone in a heartbeat. But God’s protection was over the Cox family and everyone was safe. The Cox determination was alive and well, and soon a makeshift store was up and running with lots of homegrown produce.

The barn was soon rebuilt and the farm continued to grow and flourish. Eventually Helen and Charlie’s oldest son Ron and wife Vickie took over the farm. The farm continued to grow and evolve as times changed. One major change was the barn got air conditioning. This not only helped preserve the freshness of the produce but also improved working conditions for the employees. Customers love coming into the store and saying, “I remember when this place didn’t have air conditioning.” Ron and Vickie worked hard making the store a great place to shop, not only for fresh produce but also for jams, jellies, sauces and so much more. They also expanded the fall fun with a pumpkin patch, corn maze and other fall activities. Eventually they decided it was time for them to retire. The farm closed in the fall of 2017 and waited for a new owner.

In the fall of 2019, Roy and Daisy’s great niece, Mary, along with Pete, decided to reopen the farm. They wanted to stay with the traditional Kansas-grown produce when in season but to also expand with locally made-in-Kansas products. Today the store is open year-round offering fresh produce, meats, cheeses and so much more. Lots of seasonal and gift items are always waiting to be discovered throughout the store.

Andrew Wiens, Jaci and Darryl Kelly, and David Thorne

InSite Real Estate Group

Lily Wu, Tina Andra, and Dana and Stephen Schmitt

Eaton Roofing team

Bryan and Hillary Kreutzer, Justin and Amber Reece, Rachel Oetken and Robyn Davis

Juvetta and Mark Slane with family and friends

Blake Wilson, Amie Emerson, Lily Wu, Toni Porter, and Joe and Sheila Tigert

Jerry and Marilyn Hardin, Jake and Gail Jernigan, Sandy and Gary Skinner, and Holly and Mark Rehwinkel

Pat and Talia Penn, and Stephanie and Michael Proctor

Fayola Oyatayo, Ishmael Morris and William Munguya

Grace and Cary Humphries, Jill and James Buettgenbach

Cathy Turner, Amy Palser, Stephanie Weishaar and Jen Shively

Chandler Dan’s Culinary Creations for Individuals, Parties, Events

Chandler Dan’s is well known in Wichita and the surrounding areas for cooking on location and bringing flavorful dishes to events and establishments. In 2022, they won two awards at Greater Andover Days. They can be found every week at Botanica, preparing lunchtime feasts for the Wichita Rotary Club members who gather most Mondays. At the 2023 Wichita Riverfest, Parten and Whitehead were chosen to honor the 2023 Admiral Windwagon Smith with their dishes. Together they created a carving station to serve prime beef and cooked lobster for crowds to enjoy. Chandler Dan’s also grilled and cooked for golfers and fans on the 18th hole of the 2023 PGA’s Wichita Open this past summer. Early last fall, Parten and Whitehead competed in the Wichita Wagonmasters Downtown Chili Cook-Off and won first place. Parten says, “We’ll compete this year for the Alzheimer’s Association on September 30.”

What began as a restaurant-centered relationship based on mutual admiration for culinary skills and restaurant savvy has been forged into a partnership that brings food and friends together in a unique dining experience. Joe Parten combines over forty years of restaurant experience and expertise, together with Jordan Whitehead’s passion for cooking delicious culinary creations to form Chandler Dan’s. They met years ago when Whitehead worked for Parten at Carrabba’s Italian Grill in Wichita.

When Whitehead decided to branch out into mobile catering with the Rollin’ Steak Wagon, he looked to Parten for guidance and support with onsite set-up, materials, ideas and business connections. A few years later they teamed up, and now share a thriving business named for Jordan and Briana Whitehead’s two older children, Chandler and Dan. They cook for individuals, parties, events — essentially wherever great food is desired.

Chandler Dan’s mobile catering selections are farm-to-table fresh, prepared from scratch using high quality ingredients. Expertly grilled, flavorful proteins serve at the forefront of their incredible cooking. Grilled beef tenderloin and strip steaks, along with juicy pork chops, burgers, and chargrilled chicken and shrimp, create delicious main courses to be savored. Hand-crafted seasonings and signature spice blends enhance these quality meats. An array of inviting sides like zucchini and roasted new potatoes enhance their meals. Also on the menu: plenty of hearty comfort foods like Joe’s Meatloaf, touted as the area’s best; rich chicken pot pie; meatballs — Italian style or Swedish — resting in creamy, rich mushroom gravy; pasta with meat sauce, uniquely paired with succulent shrimp; as well as chicken enchilada casserole. A variety of salad selections and fresh fruits finish these satisfying foods beautifully. Whitehead says, “Preparing and cooking our foods for people is incredible. I love to see the smiles and hear the comments as what we share is enjoyed. Friends and family members gather and have delicious and memorable experiences with us.”

This fall Chandler Dan’s can be found at Applejack’s Pumpkin Patch the last weekend in September, plus every Saturday (10 a.m.–6 p.m.) and Sunday (12 a.m.–6 p.m.) in October, They will join Grace Hill Winery for their Wine Walk at Applejack’s on November 4 and 11 from 3 to 6 p.m. Some special selections at this location include New York strip steak and prime beef ribeye, sliced thin and served on toasted hoagies. This will be the 10th year that Parten and Whitehead have partnered with Applejack’s owners Renee and Scott Berggren to inspire autumn traditions and enjoy fun, fall activities while offering amazing outdoor cooking.

For more information, reach out to Joe Parten at 316.371.9118 or Jordan Whitehead at 316. 207.9016.

Written by Julie Hying

Baseball fans had the honor of meeting 96-year-old Maybelle Blair, a former player with the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League, made famous by the movie “A League of Their Own.” Blair’s appearance coincided with the NBC World Series Women in Baseball celebration during the 10-day tournament. Blair was a former pitcher for the 1948 Peoria Redwings and the inspiration for Madonna’s character, nicknamed “All the Way Mae,” in the 1992 film. To learn about Maybelle’s vision of promoting girls in baseball, visit internationalwomensbaseballcenter.org.

MAYBELLE BLAIR NIGHT NBC World Series

Donna Cohen, Connie Palacioz and Maybelle Blair

Maybelle Blair and The Wichita Wildcats

Christine Pileckas, Lyndsey Cook, Kelli Elmore, ess Viramontez and Morgan Dawson

Carrie Moore, Jamie Norman, Nick and Jennifer Woods

Lisa Capps, Sally Stevens, Courtney Sendall, Charissima Albright, Audra Dinell and Arianne Gross

Justine Hedge and Maybelle Blair

Jennifer Burns, Karlene Clarke, Keshia Ezerendu, Arianne Gross and Heather Krull

Sharon Kincaid, Charlene VanBurkleo and Sharon Hamric

Corbin Tailey, Connie Palacioz and Laces

Deena Flanigan-Kreutzer, Sue Jenkins, Judi Hayashi, Jennifer Marshall and Cheryl Schmidt

Chris Manuel, Tracy Hoover and Tonya Witherspoon

A Design Company for ALL of Your Design & Remodeling Needs

By Nahid Holmes | Design Source Interiors

Cooler fall temperatures call for cozying up by a beautiful fireplace.

We are experienced in helping our clients achieve their fireplace goals –from creating a fireplace wall to resurfacing your current fireplace surround, we can help you realize your fireplace dreams.

There’s not any hocus pocus going on around here, just Nahid and her team sprinkling a little magic touch and a lot of hard work, resulting in spaces that feel inspired. Let Nahid and her team help you upgrade your space this fall.

Warm your space visually and physically with a fireplace wall.

Fall in love with your fireplace again by resurfacing your existing fireplace. Or add a fireplace anywhere like we’ve done here!

For more information, give us a call or stop by Mon-Sat 10am-5pm.