SPLURGE!316 September 2023

THE MUSIC ISSUE

RUDY LOVE JR. MIDTOPIA WICHITA GRAND OPERA FALL CONCERT LINEUP

YOUTH IN MUSIC

Notes From the Publisher & Staff

No Shortage of Fun in Dog Days of Summer

August was hot, but that didn’t keep us from getting out and about in Wichita! We are always amazed at the wide variety of things to do in the city — especially if you are the curious type who likes to try new things and see new places.

First up, we helped the NBC World Series kick off their tournament with a SPLURGE! Party in the All-American Club at WSU’s Tyler Field. The weather was hot and the clubhouse was — well, a little hotter than we anticipated due to an air conditioner malfunction. But never fear, the NBC World Series folks sprung to action, picking up eight donated fans from Vornado and installing them to blow cool air on our Barbie-pink-clad partygoers. A great time was had by all, and we raised money for the Mental Health Association of South Central Kansas.

A couple of weeks later we helped Butler Community College’s Redler Institute commemorate the first-year anniversary of their state-of-the-art culinary school with a SPLURGE! Wine & Dine. Chef Luis Peña wowed the crowd with both his wit and culinary skills, treating us to cavatelli, Amish chicken ragu, prepared veggies from the Redler garden and a fabulous flourless chocolate cake with chocolate mint ice cream. You won’t want to miss our next Wine & Dine. Stay tuned!

For this month’s fashion shoot, we found ourselves at the top of the Hillcrest Apartments in College Hill, which was the state’s tallest building when it opened in 1927. The views from the tenth floor sky room are stunning, and the city takes on a very park-like

appearance with miles and miles of leafy tree canopy. You can even see McConnell Air Force Base from this lofty perch. Our hostess was Eileen Kludt, who has become the Hillcrest’s unofficial historian, gathering huge binders of articles, accounting sheets and other memorabilia in the few years since she started researching the grand old building. She was gracious in sharing her residence with us for the photo shoot, which feels much more like a home than an apartment in both size and layout.

Finally, we had a raucous time at Scheels, where store employees turned models to show us both the fashions and features of this beautiful new store. If you haven’t shared a scoop of ice cream at the store’s Fuzziwig’s Candy Factory, put it on your summer bucket list. You won’t regret it.

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

Debi Devor-Mullins - debi@splurgemag.com

@splurgeict splurgemag.com

Accounting Firm of Esther M. Mollhagen, CPA

Graphic Design Mitch Gee

Contributing Writers Julie Underwood Burton, Alexis Evans, John Huthmacher, Caroline Jones, Karen Long, Lauren “L” Mercado, Amy Palser, Natasha Park, Joe Stumpe

Guest Columnists Nataliya Biskup, Paige Feikert, Nahid Holmes, Eric Litwiller, Joseph Spaniol, Amy Sprole, Randy Yeisley

Fashion Photography Darrin Hackney Photography

Local Faces Photography Michael Carroll Jr.

XO, Jody and Amy

Amy and Jody with photographer Darrin Hackney and Scheels employees.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

8

Rudy Love Jr.

Continuing an ICT family legacy, this soul, funk and R&B artist needs three bands and numerous collaborations — including an electronic jam band — to express the full spectrum of his versatility.

9

Wichita Music Scene

A groundswell of musical innovation is crescendoing over the Wichita area. Meet some of the musical maestros creating a thriving audio ecosystem, and the bands and artists they support.

40

Historic Hillcrest Apartments

The live-in maid quarters have all been converted to home offices or extra bedrooms, but this highrise apartment building, built in 1927, is still known for its stately facade, old-school ambiance and sunset views.

56

Oh lá lá! Wichita Grand Opera

WGO’s fall season is drawing inspiration from all things French, including a New Orleansthemed Opera Ball and a performance of “La Bohème,” celebrating Paris, youth and l’amour

68

Fall Fun!

This year the farms, corn mazes, pumpkin patches and pick-yourown orchards have outdone themselves with autumnal ambiance, imaginative activities and tasty food and drink.

Photography: Justin Labaddie

Rudy Love Jr. performs with Keo & Them during a concert in Ft. Collins, Colorado.

Wichita Loves Rudy Love Jr..

Written by Natasha Park

Though we love to claim him, he is a well-known singersongwriter, multi instrumentalist and performer who often plays outside of Wichita’s local scenes. But, when he is performing here, make a point to catch his feel-good, masterfully soulful and awe-inspiring performances.

Rudy Love Jr. has continued his grandfather’s and father’s legacy of deep understanding, talent and passion for music. Most of Love’s family members have created a solid impact on Wichita’s music scene — an impact that has carried some of them to great recognition. For example, Rudy Love Sr. who, over his long career, has written songs for Little Richard and Ray Charles.

“My father and my grandfather were both amazing singers,” said Rudy Love Jr. “I have a very big family, and most of them are musical. It’s been important to me to find my own voice, but continuing my family’s legacy has always been the reason that I do what I do. I’ve learned everything from watching them. I first started doing music and playing keys in my family band, Rudy Love & the Love Family.”

Throughout Love’s career, he has shared the stage with many notable artists. Besides playing with his family, career highlights have included opening for Snoop Dogg, Kansas, Teddy Swims, and singing with Aloe Blacc.

Currently Love contributes his talent and music to his label and team, Midtopia, a dedicated space for artists and music professionals to gather and create. A place for live sessions, artist interviews and video concert series, it’s an initiative of M.E.A.D.O.W., a 501(c)(4) organization. However, Love’s numerous collaborations and his three bands express his versatility: Various genres of soul, funk and R&B with Rudy Love & the Encore and The Love Family seem to be the core of his style. He also plays in his electronic jam band, 2 ŁØT.

2 ŁØT is an electronic, soul, funk, jazz, and rock fusion band. Music aside, they are a group that “focuses on social change such as overcoming addiction, and helping kids overcome barriers,” according to their website.

Rudy Love & The Encore

Love stays dedicated to his craft. He’s found his unique voice through his family’s musical history, but more so his persistence, his natural talent, various collaborations and projects. But mostly his own life is relatable, and his music conveys that. His performances embody freedom, skill and infectious feel good vibes. A true musician who’s lived music, he is a highly respected national artist.

“I love the music scene in Wichita. I love the people who are willing to sacrifice so much in the pursuit of being different and disrupting the status quo,” Love says. “I feel like Wichita is a beautiful, well-kept secret that will someday be the source of books, movies and documentaries because of all of the talent that comes out of our little dot on the map!”

Midtopia: The Music Incubator

Written by John Huthmacher and Natasha Park

A Wichita couple is working to make it easier for local artists to achieve success on the local music scene. For more than a decade, Jessie and Adam Hartke have been developing their concept for putting local musicians on the map. Co-owners of local music venues WAVE, The Cotillion, and promotion company Hartke Presents, the couple unveiled their venture, Midtopia, in March to provide “often undervalued and overlooked” independent area artists a template of tools and resources to jumpstart and sustain their musical ventures, Jessie said.

Supported through the generous grants of a local philanthropist, Midtopia operates as a 501(c)(4) nonprofit, devoted to helping Wichita artists realize their musical dreams. Midtopia recently revived The Brickhouse Studios in Wichita as a dedicated space for music workers to congregate and utilize the studio to create video content such as live sessions, artist interviews, and video concert series.

The list of impressive artists includes The Cavves, an indie surf band; Social Cinema, gelling alt indie rock; and Keo & Them, known for their enigmatic neo soul. And we’ve all heard of the multi-talented Rudy Love Jr., and his iconic soul, funk and R&B.

Rudy Love Jr. Upcoming Shows

September 2, Local Flavor

September 3, Brickyard

September 8, Industry Old Town

September 9, The Shadows

September 16 with 2 ŁØT, The Mothership, Taos, New Mexico

September 23 with Rudy Love & the Encore, Black and Loud Festival, Seattle Washington

September 30th EP release party for Rudy Love & the Encore at an undisclosed Location

New single: “Good Time”

Rudy Love & The Encore just dropped their new single. Check it out on your favorite music streaming platform. For more information: rudylove.com

“It is a passion of ours to showcase the amazing talent this community has,” Jessie said. “We’re focused on building up the Wichita music ecosystem. Historically, not a lot of resources have been available in that realm.

@RudyLoveJr. @RudyLoveandtheEncore

“It is a passion of ours to showcase the amazing talent this community has. We’re focused on building up the Wichita music ecosystem. Historically not a lot of resources have been available in that realm.”

— Midtopia co-founder Jessie Hartke

Jessie Hartke Adam Hartke

“You can have amazing artists, but they can get burned out or left behind because they don’t have the resources to continue their craft. We’re teaching them good business practices, booking tours, and providing vans they can utilize. We’re pretty much creating a small business incubator for artists to become established businesses.”

— Midtopia co-founder Jessie Hartke

“Two years ago, we were able to dive into this concept after Covid as more opportunities were afforded the Wichita music scene. We launched in March, after almost 15 years, to work with artists in our own community, where resources and infrastructure were lacking. We’ve always been in awe of the amazing creative energy that cities like Wichita have, and wanted to establish a sustainable trajectory for artists and music workers in our community.”

Driven by a shared love of music, Jessie, a classically trained flutist, and Adam, a community organizer who plays a mean guitar, understand just how difficult it can be for an artist to gain a foothold in the ever-changing music industry. Through Midtopia, their goal is to keep musicians sufficiently inspired to press on through difficult times in pursuit of establishing viable music careers. Incorporating suggestions collected during multiple study group sessions, Midtopia offers artists a bundle of essential services to showcase their talents. Tools include a recording studio, video studio, booking services, use of tour vans, and online and in-person networks connecting area musicians for collaborative and creative interaction.

Fans gather at a concert at WAVE in Wichita. Midtopia founders Jessie and Adam Hartke own local music venues WAVE and The Cotillion, bringing in shows and musicians far and wide, including those on these pages. They also support local musicians. Photography on these pages by Fernando Salazar.

Whiskey Myers

“You can have amazing artists, but they can get burned out or left behind because they don’t have the resources to continue their craft,” Jessie said. “We’re teaching them good business practices, booking tours, and providing vans they can utilize. We’re pretty much creating a small business incubator for artists to become established businesses.”

Using D Tour, an independent booking collective encompassing more than 50 markets from coast to coast, Midtopia artists can gain exposure through concert booking opportunities at venues with seating capacities of 200 to 8,000. Such exposure is vital when looking to make connections and win fans.

Already four Wichita bands currently involved with Midtopia are benefiting from its connections. In early July, representatives from the four acts attended the National Independent Venue Association conference in Washington D.C. to broaden their musical horizons. Two Midtopia bands, Rudy & the Encore and Keo & Them, played on the stage at the Atlantis, which had hosted the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame band, Foo Fighters, a month earlier. The recently opened venue is becoming a mustplay destination for up-and-coming acts.

What’s especially gratifying to Jessie and Adam is that Midtopia helps not only the musicians involved, but also those individuals behind the scenes who assist them. To that

“Wichita has been a home to countless talented musicians and legendary artists who have held their own and established an incredible music scene for the rest of us to learn from. The music here goes way back, yet our scene maintains a very friendly and inviting energy. New groups and new music are forming constantly, and it’s always inspiring to see what the talent here will do next.”

— Sophie Emerson, The Cavves

“In Wichita you’re surrounded by passion and people playing music just for the joy of playing music alone. Lots of people always trying to make it work with what they have.”

— Logan Bush, Social Cinema

“Despite Wichita’s size and location, we have a great diversity of music and a very supportive community that bonds together over a general love and passion for art.”

— Austin Engler, Social Cinema

end, Midtopia employs 16 people to help provide services for its musician clients, including booking agents, sound engineers and graphic designers. Band members also work behind the scenes to supplement the numerous operating costs associated with sustaining a working act, including equipment, travel expenses and props.

“We utilize the different talents we have within our community,” Jessie said. “We stress helping not only musicians, but also music workers. Music is like a flower. When you see a flower, you may not notice roots and soil are involved. We want to involve all these artists through the work this non-profit does.”

Though still in its infancy, plans are already in the works to expand Midtopia into an enterprise that continues to open doors for area musicians for years to come, Jessie said. And that, she said, is music to the ears of Adam, herself, and the Wichita music scene at large.

“Every day this is our dream job,” she said. “We’re super grateful to have this opportunity to showcase the talent our city houses. At this point, we’re creating a space where people can come to elevate their craft, share ideas and attain their goals.”

For more information go to Midtopia.com

“I love the music scene in Wichita. I love the people who are willing to sacrifice so much in the pursuit of being different and disrupting the status quo. I feel like Wichita is a beautiful, well-kept secret that will someday be the source of books, movies and documentaries because of all of the talent that comes out of our little dot on the map!”

— Rudy Love Jr.

“We’re all (in the music community) pushing each other constantly to be the best versions of ourselves. The love and support is tangible, and now, with the formation of Midtopia, artists have a hub to collaborate, experiment and explore their craft along with the resources and support to help us realize our full potential.”

—Willy Simms, Rudy Love & The Encore

Dropkick Murphys

The Wailers

Flint Hills National Residences is a carefully planned community wrapping around the Tom Fazio designed and nationally recognized Flint Hills National Golf Club. Home sites from 1/3 acre to more than 1 acre combine with generous common areas to create the perfect environment for every phase of life. Few places rival the natural beauty of this 640-acre private retreat. Club Estate home sites beginning at $75,000 and Park Estate home sites beginning at $190,000.

look for a better financing opportunity, and make the move when the time is right. You can always change your financing to more favorable terms later, should better rates and products become available. And if rates only get worse, then you’ll be glad you married the house when you did!

Marry Your Dream Home

Written by Randy Yeisley | Yeisley

Recession? Probably, But Not Yet.

There are no official criteria that define a recession. Whether or not we are in a recession is decided by eight economists that you’ve never heard of. These economists serve under the umbrella of the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER), a private nonprofit organization. And to make matters worse, these economists usually don’t define a recession until after it is over. Many economists remain divided in their opinions of whether or not we will see a recession in late 2023 and into 2024, but there are several factors that point to a potential recession. On the flip side, the overall economy and the jobs report have remained strong and the unemployment has been steady at a historically low level. The problem with predicting a recession is that normal indicators are in conflict with each other right now.

GDP GROWTH

A common rule of thumb for a recession is negative GDP growth for two consecutive quarters. The first two quarters of 2022 had negative GDP growth, but we have had positive GDP growth for the past four quarters. However, the GDP growth seems to be slowing over the past 12 months. Starting with the third quarter of 2022, the GDP growth has been 2.6%, 2.9%, 2.0% and 2.4%. These numbers are trending down and that could be an indication that the economy is cooling.

INVERTED YIELD CURVE

Another indicator of a potential recession is an inverted yield curve. Each of the last 10 recessions since 1955 were preceded by an inverted yield curve. In a normal yield curve, long-term interest rates are higher than short-term interest rates. In other words, a 5-year CD usually pays a higher interest than a 1-year CD. The yield curve inverts when short-term interest rates are higher than long-term interest rates, like we are experiencing today. The graph above depicts the yield spread between the 10-year Treasury note and the 2-year Treasury note. We have a normal yield curve when the data points are above the zero line, and we have an inverted yield curve when the data points are below the zero line. The vertical bars show past recessions. You can see that every recession occurred after the yield curve inverted. The current yield spread has been inverted since July of 2022.

INFLATION

The inflation rate climbed in July to 3.3% from 3.0% in June. The inflation rate in June of 2023 was the lowest it has been since June of 2022, when the inflation peaked at 9.1%. This most recent bump in the inflation rate could make the Fed more hawkish and cause them to raise the interest rate at their next meeting in September. Continued increases in interest rates will put a damper on business expansion and job growth, which could also trigger a contraction in the economy and push us into another recession.

BOTTOM LINE

While we may not experience a recession in the near-term, it would appear that all the indicators are in place to nudge us into the next recession. Recessions normally occur after the yield curve inverts and are usually characterized by a rise in unemployment. The yield curve is currently inverted and the Federal Reserve may further increase interest rates to continue their fight against inflation. A rise in interest rates could slow business growth and cause an increase in unemployment. The handwriting is on the wall for a recession, but it may take a while before it actually occurs. In the meantime, make sure that your portfolio is prepared for a market downturn that would accompany a recession. Now is the time to take a defensive position in your portfolio.

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.

Reaching a Generation through Music

Empowering Young Musicians, Changing Lives

Written by Caroline Jones

Cathy Grant can’t even pick up groceries at Dillon’s without a reminder of the impact that her program, Music Youth Partnership, has had on the lives of people in the Wichita community. With a mission to “change lives, improve graduation rates, fill youth music programs, and beyond,” MYP is so much more than a successful non-profit organization serving lower-income middle and high school music students in USD 259. “We are not just out to build musicians but to introduce a greater number of kids to the beauty and disciplines of music education,” Grant said.

For Grant, the program that she started nearly 30 years ago has always been about the kids, and her vision has expanded into a small army of passionate musicians and educators relentless in their pursuit to transform lives. “There is overwhelming scientific evidence that playing an instrument while reading music positively changes every part of the brain,” she said. “It literally has the power to transform a life and allows students to perform better in every area of their life.”

MYP hires experienced musical professionals to “wear a lot of hats,” silently partnering with band directors to accomplish classroom goals, teaching individual and group lessons, and, as Grant says, “becoming mother and father figures to a generation.” Because MYP works in USD 259 high schools and their feeder middle schools, these professionals become a constant, stabilizing adult figure in the lives of students, which helps them gain confidence, accountability and belonging.

They also provide a place for Wichitans to donate lightly used instruments for students in USD 259 band programs. Grant remembers the impact of a recent instrument donation from a parent whose daughter took her own life. “When I got out of the car, I went over and hugged her and she hugged me and she sobbed into my shoulder,” she recalled. Every donated instrument receives a brass plate with the name of the donor. She says, “To be able to share that and to know that the gift that you gave is going to help a kid that couldn’t play otherwise … that’s just huge.”

For more information on Music Youth Partnership, visit musicyouthpartnership.org. You can donate instruments by calling 316.847.2049 or dropping them off at Damm Music Center, 8945 W. Center Ave.

There’s a reason “partnership” is in the organization’s name. Grant says, “We are fighting for a generation, and everybody can help. If somebody can donate an instrument, if somebody can pay a little bit to have an instrument repaired … any monetary donations are priceless.” MYP invites the Wichita community to attend their gala event in early December, where they hope to receive enough donations to fund their music teachers’ salaries for the coming school year.

Music Youth Partnership Executive Board Members (left to right) Rob Simon, Jan Fox-Petersen, executive director Cathy Grant, Claire Woody, Robyn Bellner, Becker Truster and John Probst.

The Wilbur Middle School Jazz Band performs at Music Youth Partnership’s first annual Jazz For a Cause at Prairie Hill Vineyard.

Music Youth Partnership encourages people to donate instruments, either by contacting them at 316.847.2049 or dropping them off at Damm Music Center, 8945 W. Central Ave.

Advocating for Optimal Patient Care

With Melissa Newby, RN

Comprehensive disease management (CDM) is a proactive, holistic approach, and one that Phoenix Home Care and Hospice nurse, Melissa Newby, RN, takes when guiding patients through the complex and turbulent journey that is living life with a serious illness. The CDM program serves as the foundation for Phoenix to support families through emotional, stressful and difficult times.

The goal of CDM is to improve quality of life for both the patient with a chronic or life-limiting illness and their families. Phoenix Home Care and Hospice believes this program is an integral part of a person’s healthcare journey. As true advocates for patient care, the core of the CDM program is centered around providing the right care, for the right patient, in the right place at the right time.

Newby states, “As a nurse, I’m not just there to treat the physical health of a patient, to help them navigate the emotional highs and lows. Good patient care stems from the genuine care and compassion one has for others,” and she believes the CDM program epitomizes that.

Phoenix Home Care and Hospice believes in providing the full continuum of care to patients on their journey, which is why the CDM program can be utilized in conjunction with home health, hospice and other palliative care programs. This integrated care approach empowers individuals to advocate for their health needs, understand how to implement selfcare strategies to minimize effects, and improve the care they receive for chronic conditions. Appropriate individuals who could benefit from CDM services include patients with:

• Significant diagnosis, chronic or life-limiting illness

• Multiple comorbidities

• Multiple recent hospitalizations

• Unmanaged pain and symptoms

Key components of a CDM program include:

• Assisting in advanced care planning and helping coordinate care options

• Education on available resources and providing practical and emotional support

• Navigating complex medical decisions

• Minimizing the decline of disease progression

• Optimizing patient care through proactive interventions and incorporating patient self management

• Unexpected changes such as: weight loss, significant change in health condition, increased weakness or fatigue

Phoenix CDM is a free service available to any patient who qualifies; they do not need to be on Phoenix services. If you’re interested in learning more, or have a loved one who may benefit from this program, contact the Phoenix CARE Team at 866.396.0493 or by email at CAREteam@phoenixhomehc.com.

Alex Melugin, Executive Vice President/Partner

‘As a nurse, I’m not just there to treat the physical health of a patient, to help them navigate the emotional highs and lows. Good patient care stems from the genuine care and compassion one has for others.’

– Melissa Newby, RN

SPLURGE! PARTY TO KICK OFF NBC WORLD SERIES

All-American Club at Tyler Field

Dennis Ross, Nikki Brown, Addi Lowell and Ann Ross

Jon and Martha Messman, Patricia and Leroy Thompson

Patricia Thompson, Nancy Knapp, Becky Tuttle and Eileen Kludt

Christian Kentling, Lindsey Hall, Steve Ruud and Angela Pirner

Becky Tuttle, Jody Klein, Debbie Bequette Robins, Terry Klein and Debi Schuckman

Martin and Tasha Park, Angela Pirner

Amy Highmoor, Monica Ingalls, Brandon Jensen, Chad Patton and Daniel Johns

Kevin and Brenda Ashton, Debbie and Kyle Russell

Stephen Zacker, Mimi and Tony Wakim, and Addi Lowell

Emily McEachern, Lucy Nguyen, Lillian McEachern and Shawn McEachern

Jody Klein, Holly Bump, Debi Schuckman and Amy Palser

Eric Johnson and Airin Rhinehart

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

Nousette Jefferson Photography | Instagram: @njeffphoto

It’s Time to Forgive the Sins of Summer

Being outside during the summer has many health benefits, but all that sun exposure can significantly damage your skin. With the help of our advanced and innovative laser treatments, we can help you “forgive” the sins of summer.

Our treatments can reduce the appearance of wrinkles, dark spots and other signs of aging, helping you look and feel your best. We can also help protect your skin from future damage so you can enjoy healthy, youthful-looking skin.

Fall and winter are perfect for laser treatments, because you naturally spend less time in the sun. Now that the summer months are over, let’s look at some of the laser treatment options at the Plastic Surgery Center and PSC Aesthetics.

BBL Hero

The BBL Hero delivers light energy to stimulate skin cell regeneration and restore your skin’s youthful appearance. It can eliminate the visible signs of aging, such as age spots, sunspots, freckles, redness and dull-looking skin, and it can treat you from head to toe. The Hero provides impressive results with little to no downtime.

The treatment uses broad-band light to target the pigment within your skin. The BBL Hero delivers triple the amount of light energy in half the time. Patients may see sun damage darken within hours of the first treatment and continue over the next 10 to 14 days. This sun damage naturally sloughs off, leaving you with a brighter complexion.

Patients usually tolerate the treatment without anesthetic numbing cream, but it’s available if needed. A typical patient requires three to five treatments, while those treating rosacea require a minimum of six treatments. Most patients begin to see results in two to four treatments.

Halo Laser

Halo is a fractionated laser treatment we personalize for your desired results. We use Halo alone or pair it with the BBL laser to treat more severe sun damage. The Tone & Glow treatment uses a lower setting, which focuses on stimulating collagen in the deeper layers of the skin with minimal downtime. Depending on the intensity of your treatment, downtime can range from three to 10 days.

Halo addresses signs of aging, such as sun damage, uneven skin tone and texture, fine lines, wrinkles, large pore size, discoloration and scars.

MicroLaser Peel

With the MicroLaser Peel, we remove the top layer of your skin, so you have fresh-looking and less tired-looking skin with fewer wrinkles and improved skin tone. This laser completely resurfaces the superficial layer of skin and can be a stand-alone treatment or combined with other laser treatments.

The MicroLaser Peel addresses areas on the face, neck, chest and hands, and improves wrinkles, scars, keratosis, sun damage (like freckles), and pigment irregularities.

Most patients see terrific results in just one treatment, while some may need more than one treatment depending on their concerns. We may also combine the MicroLaser Peel with other aesthetic procedures for enhanced benefits.

CO2 Laser

The CO2 laser is our most aggressive laser that can help you look younger and erase years of aging. This fully ablative laser addresses a wide range of skin imperfections on your face, including deep wrinkles and scars. It improves skin tone, texture, fine lines, wrinkles, age spots, hyperpigmentation, skin texture and acne scarring.

Our plastic surgeons use the CO2 laser under anesthesia. We can use it on its own or with any facial surgery. We commonly pair it with a facelift to help target the fine lines around the eyes and mouth that a facelift can’t improve.

Downtime is 10 to 14 days, and patients have ongoing redness that may take up to three months to resolve. Patients must stay out of the sun for at least three months and wear sunscreen.

Ultherapy

Ultherapy is a unique, non-invasive ultrasound procedure that naturally lifts and tightens loose, lax skin from the inside out and without surgery! Ultherapy differs from our laser treatments in the way it improves the skin’s thickness (which breaks down as we age), but it is still beneficial.

Ultherapy lifts areas such as your neck, jawline and eyebrows and improves lines and wrinkles on your chest. It uses ultrasound energy to lift and tighten your skin naturally, without downtime, by stimulating your collagen production. You may notice results over two or three months as new collagen works to lift, tighten and smooth your skin. It’s ideal as an annual treatment to delay the need for a surgical facelift.

Which Laser Treatment is Right for You?

Meet with one of our expert team members to determine which treatment best addresses your needs. We’d love to personalize a plan based on your needs and goals. Schedule your consultation at 316.688.7500.

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.

Plastic surgery involves many choices; the most important is selecting a surgeon you can trust. Expect exceptional results when

With Dr. Heather Sandison, ND Founder of Marama and Clear Mind Center

An Innovative Approach to Memory Care

Q. What is the Clear Mind Center?

A. Clear Mind Center is a state-of-the-art program clinically proven to stop cognitive decline and reverse dementia symptoms. With careful consideration I have partnered with Avita Rolling Hills to mirror my Marama model and implement world-renowned Dr. Dale Bredesen’s protocol. Our unit is only the second of its kind in the nation. We strive to execute four pillars: nontoxic environment, organic keto-flex meals, brain healing activities and exceptional caregiving. We provide the space, food, staff, amenities and experience to support the lifestyle changes necessary to support cognitive health.

Q. How is Clear Mind Center different compared to traditional memory care?

A. We offer an immersive experience of a holistic approach following the Bredesen Protocol that aims to address multiple factors contributing to cognitive decline, while traditional memory care focuses on daily assistance and care for individuals with cognitive impairments. Clear Mind Center addresses the underlying causes of dementia symptoms with the ultimate goal of sending the resident back to independent living. So, the expectation at Clear Mind Center is people get better when they move in. When staff expect it, residents will rise to that expectation. When the expectation is that someone will get worse, they will often succumb to that. Our residents and our staff expect for residents to get better, and they do! I think that’s a big part of it.

Q. Why did you choose to partner with Avita at Rolling Hills?

A. I was introduced to Matt Lillie and Chance Becnel on the leadership team at Avita Rolling Hills as the Covid pandemic was wrapping up. I was impressed and inspired by their desire to truly help the residents and families they serve. This commitment to excellence and service was reinforced in all of our many conversations and as I learned more and more about the awards they have received, met more people on the team and saw the physical home. Not only do they do a great job, they have a fun time doing it. I can see it in the smiles and kindness that permeate the entire organization. This is not your typical community. Their cutting-edge facility is second to none and is designed to provide worldclass care and resident experiences.

Q. What measures does Clear Mind Center take to help reverse memory loss?

A. Dr. Bredesen uses the metaphor of a “leaky roof” to explain his approach to addressing cognitive decline. Just as a leaky roof can have multiple causes, cognitive decline can be driven by various factors like inflammation, nutrient deficiencies, toxins and more. His protocol aims to identify and address each of these contributing factors to effectively “patch up the leaks” and improve brain health. The Bredesen Protocol involves a personalized, multifaceted approach that includes dietary changes, exercise, sleep optimization, stress reduction, brain training, and target supplements, among other strategies. To measure the success of the program, Clear Mind Center utilizes the Montreal Cognitive Assessment to measure changes in cognition every 12 weeks.

Q. What special training does the staff have?

A. All staff undergo training in the Bredesen Protocol techniques and therapies. Careful time is taken with each resident to tailor a unique care plan to meet each individual’s specific needs. Our staff in the Clear Mind Center are specially trained to promote the best outcome for each resident. Clear Mind Center director, Pamdora Moore, LPN, is one of only two nurses in Kansas certified as an Apollo Health ReCode 2.0 practitioner. We employ physical trainers, life coaches and lifestyle coaches. We are all about encouraging people and making sure that they are seen and heard and are participating in activities.

Q. How many residents are you able to accommodate?

A. We have 15 fully furnished studios available.

Where to Find Them

Clear Mind Center at Rolling Hills 629 S. Maize Ct. Wichita, KS 67209

For pricing and availability call 316.361.2500

Spotlight on Kansans’ Mental Health

Written by Eric Litwiller MHA Director of Development and Communications

Mental Health in the Workplace

According to a recent survey done jointly by Deloitte and Workplace Intelligence, 75 percent of C-suite employees are “seriously considering” quitting their current job for one that better supports their mental health. Over 80 percent give their mental health a higher priority than career advancement. And 72 percent of company leadership believes that executive bonuses should be directly correlated to employee well-being metrics.

If your key leadership believes this firmly in the importance of mental health in the workplace, imagine how your line- and staff-level employees must be thinking — and how that affects your hiring and retention outlook. As it is, an estimated 40 percent of employee turnover (and therefore recruiting, hiring and training costs) are directly correlated to mental health.

Through a new partnership, Mental Health Association (MHA) is offering a mental health component as part of AGH’s Professional Development Program. This curriculum helps executive teams, directors and other leaders in Wichita’s corporate sector learn about mental health concerns in their companies and receive training on how to address them. This is in conjunction with the educational programs we have offered since 1957, which include providing lunch-and-learn events for staff, participating in company resource fairs, and more.

We are proud of the premier position we hold in helping hundreds of companies like GLMV Architecture, IMA Wealth, Professional Engineering Consultants, and more address the mental health needs of their staff, and are excited to grow this role even more through the relationship with AGH.

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.

Q. How did you land on photography for a career, and how long have you been doing it?

A. Photography as a career was never on my radar. I worked in bars and restaurants; that’s what I knew, and I did it well. Everything changed in 2005 when I picked up my first real camera. I started to see the world differently around me, and people started approaching me, asking me to capture their family photos. I remember thinking, “I can make money with this thing?” I started Darrin Hackney Photography in 2009 and went full-time in 2011.

Q. What’s difficult about being a photographer in 2023?

A. It’s figuring out how to stand out among the thousands of other photographer options clients can choose from. I believe it’s up to the photographer to give people a reason to hire them. The days of “if I build it, they will come” are gone. The photographers who rise above the others are the ones who can serve their clients, rather than make it about themselves.

Q. What’s the best part of your job?

A. Meeting people and creating fantastic visuals from ideas clients have come to me with, which they can use for their projects, will always make me smile.

Q. Why should people hire a professional photographer when iPhones take such good photos?

A. People should hire a professional photographer when they want more than “good enough” photos. I’ve lost count of how often headshot clients come to me because they tried using an iPhone image for their LinkedIn profile — but realized later that the picture didn’t show their personality and believed it hindered their hiring ability. Which leads me to my favorite quote: “If you can’t invest in yourself, how do you expect your clients to invest in you?”

Q. Part of what makes you an awesome photographer is your people skills. How did you learn to work with people so adeptly?

A. My people skills developed over my 30-plus years behind the bar. I learned a lot of psychology about people by just paying attention to them while they were in front of me. Facial expressions were everything

With Darrin Hackney Owner Darrin Hackney Photography

from where I stood. I could tell if you were angry with someone, needed directions to the bathroom, were infatuated or annoyed with your date, and if your one-liner didn’t work on the pretty girl.

Eagle Scout Daniel Moeder

Growing up in Troop 502 at College Hill United Methodist Church, Wichita native Daniel Moeder was always going to be an Eagle Scout. “I’ve been involved in Scouts since first grade, and was involved with Scouts all through elementary school, middle school, high school and into college,” Moeder said.

Class of 2006

His fondest memories from his time in Scouting took place over nine summers working at Quivira Scout Ranch in Sedan, Kansas. During his time at the 3,000-acre ranch, he worked for six years as a waterfront staff member, and for three years as the director of programs. “I really made some of my best friends for life through that program and spending all summer long with those guys. I still talk to those people on a regular basis,” he said.

Moeder recently received the unique opportunity to return to Quivira with Pack 506 as the father of 6-year-old Cub Scout, Whitney. As he helped her earn the Lion rank over her first year in Scouts, Moeder has enjoyed seeing her confidence and love for the outdoors grow. “It was just fun watching her get more comfortable with being outdoors in the middle of nowhere. By the last campout, she was begging to go on

hikes and play down by the creek with some of the other kids and parents while I stayed back at camp.”

Moeder has loved watching his daughter experience the Cub Scout process. “It’s just fun to see boys and girls with their moms and dads going through all the things again,” he said. “You know, the first days, the campouts, all that stuff. Everything just seems way more inclusive today. Not that it wasn’t inclusive then; it just seems way more family oriented now.”

He hopes that Scouting will teach his daughter valuable lessons about adapting to new situations and overcoming unexpected challenges. “Nothing goes as planned,” he said. “Things are constantly changing, and being able to quickly adapt and adjust to things makes life way easier.”

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.

Suffering From

Dr. Weaver and the staff at Central Kansas Podiatry Associates are the regional leaders in treating these and all types of foot problems.

Don’t wait any longer to take control of your health. We accept accept all forms of insurance including Medicare.

THE FLINT HILLS GROUP AT MORGAN STANLEY

As cooler weather begins to descend on the Wichita area, Dr. Terry Klein’s thoughts tend toward flu vaccinations and the goal of keeping people healthy throughout flu season, especially those in high-risk groups. The Wichita research facility he oversees is enrolling participants in three different flu vaccine studies, and that means that your annual vaccination doesn’t cost you anything. In fact, you could actually be compensated for participating — and helping to save lives.

Q. Kids are just getting back to school and it still feels a lot like summer. Why is now the time to think about the flu vaccine?

A. Historically in the Wichita community, flu cases tend to peak from late fall through early spring. So if you get the vaccine in, say, October, you’re probably covered until the time you most likely will see the flu. It’s a good idea to get it anytime between now and until the supply is gone in February. It takes about two weeks to get the effects of the vaccine while your immune system becomes adjusted.

Q. Who should be getting the flu vaccine?

A. The Centers for Disease Control recommends everyone age 6 months and up receive an annual influenza vaccination by the end of October. But it is especially important for those in high-risk groups to get the flu vaccine: the elderly, those with underlying health conditions, pregnant women and health care workers.

Q. How is it decided which flu viruses will be included in the vaccine each year?

A. As the World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control collaborate to decide which viruses to include in the development of the influenza vaccine, they look to influenza cases in the Southern hemisphere. We get a sneak peek into what’s happening because the Southern hemisphere has already been where we’re going in terms of flu season. Unfortunately, they’re projecting the flu season is going to be worse this year. The good news is, the last few years we’ve gotten better at vaccines that are appropriate and matching it better to the type of viruses that flu season brings.

With Dr. Terry Klein Partner at Wichita Research Facility AMR

Q. Weren’t flu cases down in 2021? Have they returned to normal?

A. In 2021 everyone was masking up and Covid was in its ravages, so because of the extra precautions being taken, exposures for influenza went down. Last year, in 2022, we had 650,000 hospitalizations and 58,000 deaths — and that wasn’t a bad year. So influenza is an ominous thing that continues to take lives.

Q. What is AMR doing to help improve flu vaccines?

A. Researchers are always trying to improve the flu vaccine — how to make them in a more timely fashion, make them less costly and make them more effective. Currently we are enrolling for three different flu vaccines studies. We encourage folks to call in and see if they’re eligible for one of the studies, because if you don’t meet the criteria for one of them, you might for another. In all cases, participants receive a free flu vaccine — no placebos are given — and they have peace of mind knowing they are helping to improve the vaccine for future flu seasons.

How to Participate

To participate in one of AMR’s influenza vaccine drug trials, call 316.867.6329.

Written by SPLURGE! Staff

BARBIE PARTY WITH SPLURGE! COVER WINNER ADDI LOWELL Apropos Aesthetics

Jamie and Eric Schmidt, Brian and Jacqui Clothier

Christine Smith, Taylor Richeson, Rylie Allen and Stacy Butts

Natalie Hinkin and Adriana Gray

Aria and Addi Lowell, Ashley Moore, Blaire Waterman and Kaity Robinson

Allison Clark and Madyson Glenn

Lindsey Andersen, Danielle Cornejo, Addi Lowell, Niki Caro and Sarah Fisher

Addi Lowell, Merri Brown, Jordin Burleson, Nikki Brown and Aria Lowell

Julia White, Raechel Peters and DeeDee Stroot

Phil Bundy and Susan McNamara

Cathi Maltbie-Hoss, Megan McGraw, Stephanie Sutton and Mary Pfannenstiel

Cheyenne Murphy, Arianna Letterman, Hope Klausmeyer and Madyson Glenn

Apropos team

Written by Caroline Jones

Choosing Joy Instead of Pain

Kechi Mother and Grandmother

Overcomes Addiction to Painkillers

Brenda Spruell, a Kechi resident and mom of two kids, never imagined that playing frisbee with dog Sheba in the backyard would lead to years of pain and drug addiction. When Sheba’s tail hit her behind the knee, she fell off the house’s back deck, breaking her back in four places. After surgery, she was prescribed 5 milligrams of Lortab, a powerful combination of acetaminophen and hydrocodone meant to relieve moderate to severe pain. “By the time I was done taking them, I was taking ten 10-milligram pills on my worst days, and that’s all I ever thought about was my next pill, my next pill, my next pill,” Brenda said.

Brenda didn’t view herself as a drug addict until she started searching for extra painkillers. “It wasn’t like I was out in the streets begging for pills or anything like that,” she said. “I mean, it just creeps up on you. You don’t realize you have a problem until it’s too late.” Though her back injury forced her to end a long-term career as a deli manager, Brenda knew a friend from her previous workplace who was in a similar situation and helped her get more drugs every month.

Brenda hated “feening” — a word used in the addiction community to indicate obsessive craving — for pills every time she woke up. “You just don’t know what you’re going to do because the second you wake up, what you need is a pill,” she said. When her supportive son John died of lymphoma cancer, she found motivation to get clean by fulfilling his dying wish to help a friend and single father raise his 4-year-old son, Anthony. “I just said, ‘I’ve got to take care of this kid, and I’m going to do whatever I can to get off this crap,’ and that’s what I did.”

Offering Anthony and his father a place to stay so Anthony would grow up with a stable environment helped Brenda realize what she wanted most. “It was a stable environment, but not really — not with me being on drugs,” she said. “He’s such a good kid, but he didn’t know anything about it really. All he knew was that I took pain medicine, and now he’ll tell you I’m much nicer since I don’t take pain medicine anymore.”

Anthony and Brenda, or “Grandma” as he calls her, like to read books together, play board games, and go shopping, and Brenda loves watching Anthony ride his bike. “Just the boring stuff I guess, but it means the world to me,” she said. She remembered riding a cart through the grocery store in her early days with Anthony because of her lack of mobility.

“I’m past that now, I don’t use the cart anymore. My strength has quadrupled. I get to go places with Anthony, and we do stuff together, and he’s just like a real grandkid even though he’s not my real grandkid.”

Today, after three years of sobriety, Brenda wants to thank Dr. Greg Lakin at Center for Change for helping her leave her old life of addiction behind. “It’s such a joy not to wake up and have that feening anymore,” she said. “I’m able to think about joyful stuff, laugh, carry on, play around with Anthony and do all the fun things without even thinking about pain pills. Another world has opened up to me, and not having to take them is just about the most joyful thing I’ve had in my life for years.”

Brenda Spruell with Anthony

Online Therapy Serving Women Across Kansas

Femme Fall-tale

Written by Lauren “L” Mercado

Drop-Dead Gorgeous Fall Fashion

There’s no doubt that the last season will be remembered as the summer of Barbie. For fall we can expect the feminine energy to continue to flow — but this time more like lava. Fall fashion is turning it up a notch, bringing the heat to the upcoming chilly days; the trends are sexy, edgy, and maybe a little rebellious. From head to toe, here is what to expect from this year’s fierce femme fall-tale fashion.

The Color

Red is to fall as pink was to summer. Don’t ditch the pink, just add red. Opt for a monochromatic red look for a high-fashion style, also try mixing red and pink for a fun new look.

The Hair

Italian bob — Thanks to the character Lucia, played by Simona Tabasco in the TV series, “White Lotus,” the bob is on trend this season. The show is set in Sicily, Italy and her character is cast as an uber sexy and rebellious young woman, complete with a fashionable bob. The Italian bob features a chin-length soft chop complete with layered bangs. Surprisingly, there are so many bang styles to choose from.

Bangs — 2023 brings new buzz-worthy bang styles you should start saving to your Pinterest board. Similar to curtain bangs — curve and Birkin bangs are the new bang trends. Curve bangs are more elongated and subdued, much like face-framing layers, and look great with a bob cut. Birkin bangs pair well with longer hair lengths that go past the shoulders. Birkin bangs styled in a center part effortlessly blend into the long hair.

The Fashion

Across the board, high-end designers (even those that don’t usually), opted for looks that are actually ready to wear. Maybe due to the more casual days of 2020 or the increase in remote workers, wearable looks like casual denim, luxe basics and oversized trousers all had their moment on the runway.

High-water hemlines — Try tea-length skirts and pants that hit just right at your ankle. This look gives an effortless New York-cool vibe, especially when paired with a sweater and sneakers. LBD in Bradley Fair is my go-to shop for this look. LBD’s curation of show-stopping sweaters and mix of evening wear and basics makes this boutique a perfect one-stop shop for this style.

The Outerwear

Cinched waist blazers — From peplum cuts to single-button blazers that close at the waist, look for blazers with a cinched waist to give a business look a feminine touch.

Updated “puff sleeve” — It felt like for a moment there, puff sleeves were becoming the new shoulder pads of the eighties. Understandably, puff sleeves add a flattering fashionable flare. No matter how subtle the change is, sculpted sleeves are a fresh update — the new sleeve offers a more structured and less frilly look. The Louis Vuitton runway featured sculpted sleeves on their fall runaway. Classic, and I mean classic, turtlenecks — Slouchy and oversized sweaters have had their moment, but this season a classic, slim turtleneck is back. Opt for a structured, neckaccentuating style like the ones seen on the Gucci Fall 2023 runway.

Conclusion

Every element of this season’s fashion narrative aligns with the contemporary dialogue of empowerment and individuality. Fashion is an art of self-assuredness, a canvas on which we can paint our unique personal style. Let this autumn be an exploration of drop-dead gorgeous fall fashion.

For more pointers on how to accessorize all the fall looks with jewelry, clutches, ties, makeup and nails (red, naturally), find L’s bonus tips at splurgemag.com.

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

Blakely and Brooks, age 6

Ten Reasons You Should Be at Holiday Galleria

Written by Holiday Galleria Steering Committee

Holiday Galleria is always the place to be in Wichita each October. From great shopping to tasty hors d’oeuvres and special guest emcees to flavorful beverage samplings, the stage is set to make Holiday Galleria 2023 the best year yet. Here are the top ten reasons you won’t want to miss our largest fundraiser..

10. Gallery of Giving

Did you know? Every dollar donated to Gallery of Giving goes directly to the community (and is not used to fund Holiday Galleria). Not only that — it is the best way to get your tickets.

9. Junior League of Wichita VIP Party

You will be given the red-carpet treatment at the Premier Party on Thursday Oct. 5, from 5–6 p.m.

8. Ticket Specials

On Saturday, Oct. 7, from 10 a.m.–5 p.m. we celebrate our hard-working teachers and school staff employees by offering free admission with a valid work ID.

7. Auction Items

Only the best packages for our Holiday Galleria friends. You will see jewels, wines, fun outings in and around Wichita, along with date night packages for you and your sweetie or your favorite group of friends.

6. Premier Party

On Thursday, Oct. 5, at 6 p.m. the doors open on our premier event. A first look at our fabulous merchants, live music, wine, tasty bites and swag bags. (But they are limited!) Plus, see No. 7. (And, since we are always asked, cocktail attire is suggested.)

5. Shopping

All your favorite merchants are here: K Lane’s & Co. Boutique, All About Dips, Hair Distrikt, Cricket Alley and G&T International will be back, plus some new and exciting merchants.

4. Girls Night Out

C’mon ladies! On Friday, Oct. 6 from 6 to 10 p.m., the first 500 shoppers get a swag bag. And everyone will enjoy live music, great food, amazing drinks and shopping. (This event is 18 to enter, 21 to drink.) Plus….

3. Live Entertainment

A local Wichita favorite, DJ Carbon, will be spinning the beats live at Girls Night Out. Now this you don’t want to miss

2. Signature Fundraiser

Holiday Galleria is the largest fundraiser that Junior League of Wichita puts on. Please support this event and, in turn, help us support the Wichita community.

1. Surprises

And, as always, we have a couple surprises up our sleeves! Santa might even stop by for a visit. See you Oct. 5–7.

Location - The Hillcrest, College Hill

Photography - Darrin Hackney Photography

Models - M&I Models

Styling - Jody Klein and Amy Palser

Hair/Makeup - Crave Beauty Academy

Hair - Alyssa, Kendra, Kimberly, Toyjaunna

Makeup - Itzel, Maribel, Mireya, Miya

THE LBD, ETC.

316.440.0772

ASPEN BOUTIQUE

316.682.6784

Ahead of Its Time

site of an osteopathic hospital at the southwest corner of Douglas and Rutan for an apartment building. Hoffman paid $30,000 for the property, trading a 10-acre chicken ranch in Riverside as part of the deal.

The next year, Hoffman incorporated the Douglas-Rutan Building Co. with architect Lorentz Schmidt and other partners. Hoffman also purchased another 100 feet of frontage on Douglas for a parking garage.

The H-shaped apartment building, designed by Schmidt’s firm, was projected to cost $1.2 million and contain 88 apartments ranging in size from two to six rooms. It now holds 97 units ranging in size from 700 to 1,700 square feet.

According to the website of the Society of Architectural Historians, the Hillcrest followed the same Tudor revival style as some surrounding residences: “a picturesque combination of rough brick and stucco decorated with half-timbering … Tudor elements were used in a more inventive way at the top of the building, where an array of gabled, half-timbered forms project from the building’s brick mass, as if a medieval English village had landed atop the structure.”

Historic Hillcrest Apartments

Written by Joe Stumpe / Photography by Taylor Hunt

A Wichita woman was reading the Saturday Evening Post one day in the 1920s when she mentioned that the city could use a luxury highrise apartment building like the ones in New York City and Chicago. “That’s how the idea blossomed with her husband, and it became his dream,” said Eileen Kludt, who lives in the Hillcrest Apartments completed by Herman Hoffman and others in 1927. Nearly a century after it opened, the Hillcrest remains a dream residence for Kludt and others charmed by its stately facade, oldschool ambiance and location on the slope of College Hill. And then there are the sunset views from the tenth-floor, westward-facing sky room.

Hoffman wasn’t able to enjoy his creation for long, dying of a heart attack a year after its completion. But the ten-story building fulfilled his ambition of becoming a home to the kind of folks who appeared in social columns of the Wichita Eagle and Beacon. An early newspaper advertisement for it depicted a family relaxing in their living room while a maid toiled in the kitchen. A governor, congressman and scores of prominent residents have called it home.

Today, the live-in maids are gone, their quarters converted to home offices or extra bedrooms, and a ballroom on the top floor has been converted to apartments. But residents can still relax in a parlor off the main entrance that looks much like it did when male residents gathered there to smoke cigars (don’t worry, any trace of smoke is long gone). Back then, the women had a separate lounge in which to socialize (also now converted to an apartment).

The Hillcrest was the state’s tallest building when it opened. The Eagle and Beacon covered its development in detail, starting in 1925 when Hoffman successfully petitioned the city to rezone the former

The website says the building has changed little, a credit to the quality of its construction and its cooperative ownership structure. Residents own their units, pay a monthly fee that covers operations of the building such as maintenance, utilities and taxes, and elect a five-member board to oversee it.

The parking garage — the first in the state with ramps — originally held a small filling station. Non-residents could park in it for 25 cents per day. There have always been a handful of small businesses and offices on the first floor, accessible by a separate entrance.

The inspiration for the building — Hoffman’s wife, Lottie — served as its first manager. She died in 1970.

Today, residents range from families with small children to senior citizens, with somewhat more of the latter. Some units have been passed down through generations. Kludt, who moved to the Hillcrest four years ago, notes that residents are free to modify the interior of their apartments as they see fit. “Once you go in, you see every style you can imagine, from very modern to apartments that look like you’re walking back into the ’20s and ’30s,” she said. Kludt’s grandchildren think she lives in a hotel, and have asked where the pool is (the building doesn’t have one, although it originally had a children’s playground). Residents have a book club and crocheting group, and there’s a book exchange library and game room in the basement next to the laundry. Kludt loves amenities like the valet parking and doorman who will carry groceries to residents’ apartments, and little touches on the building like a decoratively carved drainpipe outside and stained-glass window in the parlor.

A gardening enthusiast, Kludt admits she originally wasn’t keen on giving up her yard to live in the Hillcrest. Now she gives talks about it to local groups.

“It was ahead of its time,” she said. “It became the place where things happened in Wichita. I could go on for days.”

Eileen Kludt

4730 E. Douglas 683.2411

CarolynSayresFineJewelry.com

Open Tues. - Sat.

scheels.com

Jennifer Wood, Cedar Falls, Iowa

Department: Women’s Fashion Manager

Wearing: 7Diamonds Restoration slim-fit joggers, 7Diamonds Restoration half-zip hoodie, 7Diamonds core t-shirt, Lolë belt bag, Steve Madden sneakers

Jacob Conklin, Arkansas City, Kansas

Department: Sunglasses and Mens Swim Manager

Wearing: 7Diamonds tee, flannel and jacket, Seeded & Sewn straight jeans, Mission belt, gold chain, and Cole Haan shoes

Red Prochaska, Wichita, Kansas

Department: Women’s Fashion Manager

Wearing: 7Diamonds tee and shacket, Flying Monkey bootcut jeans, Myra belt, Corral boot

Tyler Hosman, Wichita, Kansas

Department: Women’s Sport Shoe Manager

Wearing: Nike Sportswear Club Fleece crewneck over Nike Sportswear Club Fleece hoodie, UNRL joggers, On Cloud 5 shoes

Candy Hardesty and Kelly Dandurand

Patricia Thompson and Francie Foster

Stephanie Sutton, Megan McGraw, Patricia Thompson, Dawn Tucker, Sierra Scott and Jessika Mayer

Libby Welu, London Wilson, Alyssa Dooms, Samantha Carney and Avery Looney

Kelly Dandurand and Lou Ann Prusa

Sally Andrews, Martha Thompson-Messman, Ann Ross and Jessika Mayer

Joan Pinnell and Tiffany Fisher-Zacker

Patricia Thompson, Carolyn Cozine and Val Learned

Vicky Rockhill, Stephanie Sutton, Jessika Mayer, Jody Klein, Dawn Tucker and Megan McGraw

Maggie Graff, Nancy Knapp and Kerri Dupont

Nikki McCoy, Erica Combs and Eileen Kludt

Kelly Dandurand, Stephanie Sutton, Patricia Thompson, Sierra Scott and Lou Ann Prusa

Allison Baker moved back to Wichita in early 2019, and soon after purchased the iconic women’s store, Aspen Boutique. In 2021, she opened the unique vintage fine furniture and home decor store, The Vault Collection, across the street in Lincoln Heights Plaza. The Vault Collection features an intriguing selection of carefully curated vintage items from around the world.

Q. Congratulations on the two-year anniversary of opening The Vault Collection. Will you be doing anything special to celebrate?

A. Thank you! The team and I are very excited to see the progress we’ve made in the last two years. Customers frequently remark on how special and unusual our selection is for a town the size of Wichita. To celebrate, we will be having an anniversary sale starting on Saturday, September 16, offering customers a 25% discount storewide. The sale runs through the end of the month and will be our biggest sale to date. We expect our customers will be thrilled to shop the event.

Q. The holiday season is around the corner. What are some unique gift items to be found at The Vault Collection?

A. The pieces at The Vault Collection are very eclectic, and I like to think we have something for everyone. Over the past couple years we’ve sold everything from an electric German professional accordion to an extremely rare, signed, 1970s Paul Evans dining room table. We have a large selection of vintage crystal decanters and barware that features items from luxury brands such as Cartier, Tiffany & Co and Baccarat. Midcentury modern furnishings have probably been our most sought-after items and we always keep a great selection in the store.

We also have Wichita’s largest collection of estate fine jewelry pieces at Aspen Boutique. As we head into the holiday season, our jewelry cases are filled

With Allison Baker Owner

with glittering diamonds, rubies, sapphires and all things beautiful. We are also one of the few places in town where you’ll also find a range of vintage Rolex brand watches for men and women.

Q. Do you carry any locally-made furnishings?

A. Last month we added pottery from Wichita potter Bruce Rowley. Bruce digs his own clay at his High Hill Ranch in the Flint Hills of Kansas, and creates beautiful one-of-akind pieces. We are excited to exclusively carry his work in our store. Bruce’s pottery is also a great gift option for something unique and local to ICT.

Q. How can readers learn more about The Vault Collection?

A. We regularly feature updates on Facebook and Instagram. Additionally, you can sign up for our email list at thevaultcollection@thevaultllc.com to get more information on item updates and special events. Our website is a great way to get a sense of what is available in the store, and our brick-and-mortar store is open Tuesday through Sunday.

Where to Find Them

The Vault Collection and Aspen Boutique 4737 E. Douglas Ave. (Corner of Douglas & Oliver) Wichita, KS 67218

316.351.3580

thevaultllc.com

The Vault Collection and Aspen Boutique

Written by Julie Underwood Burton

BLING SUMMER SOIREE Home of Bling Owner Nicole Campos

Amanda and Aaron Page, Jennifer Saunders, Jon and Ashley Schlatter

Katy Fisher, Sammy McBride, Nicole Campos, Kadra Boulware and Ashley Schlatter

Sheila and David Muhwezi, Deborah Gladney

Joe and Bailey Mitchell, Tiffany and Christian Trotter

Brian and Karen Prahm, Katy and Collin Fisher

Sammie McBride and Nicole Campos

Andrea Craig, Dee Hedges and Nicole Campos

Sam Farha, Marisa Amphonephong, Elizabeth Farha, Ashley and Jamie Percival

Steve Hutchinson, Susanne Suellentrop, Thane and Dee Hedges, Karen and Kevin Strecker

Lana Hattar and Fadi Joudi, Karen and Kevin Strecker

Mark and Nicole Campos, Lily Wu and Steven Clark

Calvin Baker, Chance Sanger and Thane Hedges

Wichita Grand Opera Oh lá lá!

Written by Paige Feikert

Fall Season Shows off French Flair

The sounds, sights and scents of France are coming to Wichita this fall with the Wichita Grand Opera!

The fall season kicks off on September 15 at the Orpheum, where the Wichita Grand Opera will host Caroline Campbell, a violinist whose talent and broad musical repertoire has taken her to iconic stages around the world. The performance will be her second in Wichita, according to WGO’s general and artistic director, Whitney Reader.

“Caroline made quite a splash here, creating a sensation on Valentine’s Day two years ago and bringing our beloved opera company, which had just struggled through the pandemic, sizzling back onto Wichita’s radar,” Reader said.” Her combination of musical virtuosity, magnificent stage presence, poise and gracious generosity … worked magic here in Wichita. We want to honor her artistry in re-offering this musical bouquet to our expanding audience, keeping alive the flame that she lit here!”

Wichita Grand Opera’s fall season is taking on a French flair, featuring several world premieres, which will include a fiery rendition of Danse Espagnole; the pastel grace of “La Vie en Rose” (merci, Édith Piaf!), arranged and orchestrated especially for this performance; a suite spotlighting the most memorable moments of the magical film composer, Ennio Morricone — which will be performed for the first time ever in Wichita — as well as many more musical bonbons.

Campbell routinely tours with world renowned tenor Andrea Bocelli, with whom she has collaborated across continents, along with dancers Brittany O’Connor and Paul Barris, who will be making their Wichita debut alongside Caroline in the Orpheum, ICT’s historic jewel box of a theater.

“One thing I really like in general, both in and outside of opera, is combining art forms!” Reader said. “In this case, a stunning violin virtuoso, full of verve and musical poetry combined with the elegance of dance ranging from classical ballet to modern interpretations and rhythms. Seeing music illuminated through motion can be very powerful; truly, dance has been the inspiration for much of the world’s great music since time immemorial.”

Campbell was trained as a classical violinist and has a diverse repertoire of music she performs — from classical to rock — but one of her favorite genres is movie themes. She has recorded for major films including “Hunger Games” and “Frozen,” and will bring her passion for movie scores to Wichita in a second event this fall. The Wichita Grand Opera will host Campbell at Odd Fellow Hall in the historic Delano district on September 17, where she will perform music from films such as “James Bond” and “West Side Story.” The event is a catered private dinner and private performance by Campbell.

Reader calls the Caroline Campbell concerts an “amuse-bouche” (appetizer) to WGO’s season. The Wichita Grand Opera will create a Louisiana French atmosphere with a New Orleans, French-themed, Opera Ball on October 21 at The Hudson in downtown Wichita. The event will feature the KC All-Stars (official band of the Kansas City Chiefs), a meal catered by Georges très magnifique French Bistro, and a live as well as silent auction to support the opera.

A performance of “La Bohème” will round out the fall lineup at Century II Concert Hall on November 4, celebrating all things Parisian, all things youthful, and all things concerning opera’s favorite subject: l’amour. “La Bohème” takes place in 1820–30s Paris, and has long since secured its place as one of opera’s most beloved and most performed gems. Reader says the Wichita Grand Opera’s performance will be a traditionally beautiful production, with sets and costumes that will take you back to 1820s Paris, and presented to Wichita’s public by a world-class cast of singers, celebrating both Kansas and national talent.

“We’d like to offer something to everyone here, and in doing so, utilize some of Wichita’s unique and wonderful venues,” Reader said. “If it’s musical fireworks that you desire — step into the old-world atmosphere of the Orpheum Theater! If it’s a whirling, French-witha-Cajun-twist opera ball in the French Quarter of New Orleans that suits your palate, come eat, drink, dance and win a prize at the auction in the uniquely yesteryear-yet-modern vibe of the Hudson in Old Town Wichita! Or do you fancy an elegant night at the opera in the Latin Quarter of Paris? Come join us in our familiar home with our friends at Century II. We want everyone in Wichita to feel welcome and remain or become part of our family.”

You can find tickets to all of Wichita Grand Opera’s events on their website: wichitagrandopera.org or call 316.683.3444.

Wichita has an undeniable character, and that character is growing stronger every year. One thing contributing to that strong vibe? The music and festival scene. Wichita is home to impressive musicians of all genres, from bluegrass to rock to R&B. These talented people couldn’t have picked a better place to play their music, as Wichita is also host to some truly unique and fun venues, which feature both local and touring musicians and artists.

The Cotillion · thecotillion.com

• Los Huracanes Del Norte, Sept. 1

• Three Dog Night, Sept. 8

• Nothing More, Sept. 12

• Ancient Aliens Live: Project Earth, Sept. 22

• Avatar: Chimp Mosh Pit Tour, Sept. 26

• The Gaslight Anthem, Sept. 27

Hartman Arena · hartmanarena.com

• Kip Moore: Damn Love World Tour, Sept. 14

• TriggrCon 2023, Sept. 22–24

Intrust Bank Arena · intrustbankarena.com

• Bert Kreischer, Sept. 22

• ICT Ice Classic: Coyotes vs Blue, Sept. 23

• Lauren Daigle: The Kaleidoscope Tour, Sept. 28

Union Stockyards · @WichitaUnionStockyards on Facebook

• Tracy Bird, Sept. 15

• Tre Twitty and Tayla Lynn, Sept. 16

Wave · waveict.com

• Thee Sinseers/The Altons, Sept. 2

• Gilda House, Sept. 7

• ICT Fest 2023, Sept. 8–9

• Here Comes the Mummies/Perpetual Groove, Sept. 10

• Mersiv, Sept. 14

• Taste and Tour, Sept. 16

• Common Kings/Steel Pulse, Sept. 22

• Midnight Tyrannosaurus, The Gauntlet Tour, Sept. 23

The Orpheum Theatre · wichitaorpheum.com

• Devon Allman and Donavon Frankenreiter, Sept. 9

• Heather Land Live! Sept. 15

• An Evening with John Cusack/“Sixteen Candles” screening, Sept. 17

• Screening of “The Wedding Singer,” Sept. 21

• Brincos Dieras, Sept. 22

• Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band, Sept. 23

• Whose Live Anyway? Sept. 26

• Girl Named Tom, Sept. 29

Brickyard · publicbrickyard.com

• Nostalgia, Sept. 1

• Candice and the Business Casual, Sept. 8

• Monterey Jack, Sept. 9

• Mountain Deer Revival, Sept. 22

• The Old No. 5’s, Sept. 29

• A Band in Kansas, Sept. 30

Written by Alexis Evans

Christopher Banzi and family

Storytime Village crew: De’Andra Hughes, LeAndra Poole, Tasha Hayes, Samaria Hines, Prisca Barnes, Devin Martin, Kisha Hines and Jayden Johnson

LEAP Author honorees

Boys and Girls Club of South Central Kansas

Tyler McClelland and family

LeAndra Poole with Lori Santos and Yamil Ramos Kevin Cisneros Reyes and family

Kevin Cisneros Reyes with Lisa, Mike and Giovanna Haist

Norma Ramos and Jasmin Fortiz

Brandon Johnson and Prisca Barnes

Christopher Banzi with Jayden Grimsley and Victoria Farr

Aaliyah and Layla Teague and family

Fresh on the Scene

Written by Karen Long

If you’re looking for an affordable yet singular steak in a locallyowned restaurant, there’s finally an option for you: Forge ICT. Launched by David Jewett earlier this summer, with Kevin Gillenwater as executive chef, this downtown establishment bills itself as “The working man’s chophouse,” and has the goods to back it up. “Fridays and Saturdays are getting to where you need a reservation,” Jewett says.

It could be the crab cakes, made with 100 percent crab meat, luring in diners — or perhaps the Pepito, a sandwich on the lunch menu, which includes truffle frites, grated parmesan cheese, thinly sliced steak, cilantro lime aioli, pico de gallo and more, all on a buttertoasted hoagie roll. Another crowd pleaser is the churrasco steak, a teres filet topped with chimichurri, roasted red mashed potatoes and a grilled citrus asparagus.

Something else that sets Forge ICT apart is an innovative cooking technique used with a majority of their steaks: sous vide. “It’s a process of cooking when you vacuum seal the steak and place it in a water bath,” Jewett explains. “When using sous vide, the steak is so juicy because you aren’t losing any moisture … Once the steak is at the desired temperature you remove it from the water bath and then sear it on the grill.”

Jewett is also known for his award-winning bartending skills, and created Forge ICT’s signature cocktail, the Leatherneck, which was recognized by Liquor.com. “It is a riff on a Manhattan. It has a leather and lavender simple syrup with Boot Hill bourbon, dry vermouth and Strega. It’s an absolutely amazing cocktail.”

Forge ICT | 917 E. Douglas Ave, Wichita, KS | forgeict.com | Hours: 11 a.m.–10 p.m.

StretchLab Wichita

SPLURGE! Welcomes New Businesses and Happenings to Wichita Forge ICT

To quote Ralph Waldo Emerson, “The mind, once stretched by a new idea, never returns to its original dimensions.” Wichitans are having their minds — and bodies — introduced to a new concept called assisted stretching.

StretchLab, a new franchise that opened in the Waterfront this summer, extolls the benefits of personalized, assisted stretching sessions, which includes improved flexibility, posture and range of motion, reduced pain, and enhanced sports performance. But there are also surprising mental health benefits, according to general manager John Le.

“Stretching helps switch your body from a stressed state to a relaxed one by activating the parasympathetic nervous system, also known as the rest and digest state. It’s no coincidence to feel a weight lifted off your shoulders and simply feel happier after stretching.”

While working with clients on custom-designed benches, flexologists talk them through the exercises and employ a “push and release” mode of stretching “where you will be resisting a bit at times during the stretch and then releasing, resulting in a more effective stretch,” Le explains. To help the flexologists design the most effective, customized stretch session, every client is scanned through MAPS, a 3D body scanning tool that generates a free, fullbody assessment. Le says StretchLab has helped clients from age 8 on up. There’s no firm age cutoff, but a parent or guardian will need to sign a waiver for anyone under 18.

The Wichita community has been very receptive to StretchLab, according to Le. “As a new studio introducing this specific modality, we felt there was an absolute need to provide this highly popular service.”

One-on-one and group stretching sessions of 25 or 50 minutes are available. Book a StretchLab flexologist by going to stretchlab.com.

Photography: StretchLab

Photography: Forge ICT

GRAND OPENING PARTY Apropos Aesthetics

Jacqui Clothier, Vanessa Al-Khub, Tracy Butts and Madyson Glenn

Girl gang

Norma Arnold with family and friends

Carmon Davidson, Sue Evans, Victoria Hayden and Christine Smith

Carrie and Ali Urbina, Chi Dang and Addi Lowell

Nancy Leiker, Jacqui Clothier, Mindy Mills and Christine Smith

Apropos Staff

Jennifer Grapengater, Paula Kim, Kim Grapengater, Nancy Leiker, Glenda Larkin and Mindy Mills

Stacy Butts and Jacqui Clothier

Carrie Hagan and Paula O’Donnell

DeeDee Stroot and Andrea Baalmann

Brian Judd, Phil Bundy, Craig Helger, Jeff Tripon and Brian Clothier

Bridget’s Legacy of Hope

Written by Caroline Jones

A huge part of Bridget’s Cradles’ support system centers around October — Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness month — and the Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day that Ronald Reagan instituted on October 15, 1988. “Then someone created the idea of Wave of Light: that on this day, if every grieving family lights a candle at 7 o’clock at night, there will be a continuous wave of light across the Earth in different time zones,” Opliger said. “So we decided that we wanted to organize a community event in Wichita so that families can light their candles and honor their babies together.”

Every year on October 15, the Bridget’s Cradles volunteer team hosts a community candlelight vigil and water lantern release, along with a light display of over 50,000 pink, blue, and white lights, “in memory of our babies in heaven,” Opliger said.

“Even though our stories may all be a little different, we’re all united in the same heartbreak,” she said. “We’re all grieving our baby, we’re grieving the hopes and dreams we had for their life, and there’s something so powerful about not feeling alone standing in the midst of a crowd where other people have walked the same journey. We’re sitting in our sadness together, but we’re also pointing everybody to hope.”

Bridget’s Cradles is also hosting their Shine Their Light peer-topeer fundraiser. They hope to raise $50,000 during the months of September and October. One hundred percent of donations go directly toward serving grieving families through the nonprofit ministry.

Support Bridget’s Cradles through donations at bridgetscradles.com/donate and by volunteering at volunteer@bridgetscradles.com.

On October 22, 2014, Ashley Opliger gave birth to beautiful, 13-ounce Bridget Faith Opliger, who was born stillborn. Her family was able to hold her for 24 hours after her birth at Wichita’s Wesley Medical Center. “Aside from Jesus, Bridget has changed my life more than any other person on this earth,” Opliger said of her daughter, “and she never even took a breath.”

After carrying Bridget for 24 weeks and five days through a subchorionic hemorrhage and 11 weeks of bedrest, Opliger went into labor, but Bridget was “already in heaven when she was born.” “She was absolutely perfect, but she was very tiny, and so when they put her in that big hospital blanket, she was swallowed up in it, and we couldn’t really see her or feel her weight,” Opliger said. In that moment, Bridget’s grandmother, Teresa Golik, offered a hand knitted, mint green cradle, providing a “very loving but functional way” for the family to hold their baby.

“The cradle in the midst of such heartbreak and grief and overwhelming trauma … it provided such peace to us, and we wanted to offer that same kind of comfort to other families who were going through the worst day of their lives,” Opliger said. She started Bridget’s Cradles in honor of Bridget’s life, providing hand-knit cradles to over 1,300 hospitals in all 50 states, as well as creating a strong support system for families mourning the loss of their babies.

The Opligers hold baby Bridget after her birth.

The Opliger family at the 2022 Wave of Light event in Wichita

Fall Fun!

Written by Alexis Evans

Soak up Autumn

Ambiance at These Area Farms

It’s pumpkin patch season once more! Kansas is blessed with a wealth of beautiful and homey farms, and many have created the cutest and most family-friendly pumpkin patches full of fall fun. With a wealth of activities available for kids ages 0–100, it’s not a question of if, but which one.

Applejack Pumpkin Patch, Augusta

This pumpkin patch and event venue is not just for kiddos! This fun and diverse spot is the pet project of owners Scott and Renee Berggren, who loved the idea of creating a place where families could come year round to experience the unplugged prairie life. Since its public opening in 2007, each new year has brought more and more visitors, and more opportunities to bring fun and life to the Wichita area. With the opening of their 2023 season on Sept. 30, Applejack will once more offer all the fall amenities, as well as a petting zoo, zip line, jump pad, hay rack rides, corn maze, festival foods, live entertainment and so much more. Get all the info at applejackpumpkinpatch.com.

Cedar Creek Farm & Pumpkin Patch, Maize

This beautiful spot is a family memory waiting to happen. At Cedar Creek Farm visitors will find an exciting corn maze, a cozy fire pit (s’mores fixings available), a relaxing ride through the scenic countryside on the barrel train, pony rides, a petting zoo, a corn pit, several play areas for kids of all ages — and of course, a pumpkin patch. With promises of family fun around every corner, Cedar Creek Farm is sure to create lasting memories for all ages. Opens late September; check out cedarcreekict.com for dates and details.

Cox Farm, Wichita

What began as a quaint roadside stand in 1924 has developed into a full-blown yearly market serving the Wichita area with delicious produce and old world charm. When the farm closed in 2017, it sat for nearly two years, waiting for the next owner to bring it to life. Now, Cox Farm is open year-round, offering seasonal produce, Kansas beef and cheese, seasonings, honey, and other goods and specialty items. Come the end of September, they also open up their Fall Festival. With hayrides, a pumpkin patch, a corn maze, bounce houses, and play areas of every kind, there truly is something for everyone at this fun local farm. Visit coxfarm.com/fall-fun for more information.

Klausmeyer Farm & Pumpkin Patch, Clearwater

This beautiful spot is the ideal location for a charming autumn outing. The daughter of owners Dave and Debbie writes, “Klausmeyer Farm and Pumpkin Patch is a local favorite for creating those cherished life-long memories. Farmer Dave and his wife Debbie work hard year round to create a nostalgic atmosphere where every guest is treated like family. This is a place where you can catch your breath, escape your busy routines and schedules, and just enjoy the simple life out on the farm. Come out and enjoy all the fall activities, including a beautiful sunflower field in mid to late September. It’s a stunning place to take family photos, especially at sunset. Continuing into the fall season we’ll also have a sorghum maze, hayrides, pumpkin patches, zombie shooting — and even a spooky haunted barn. There are photo ops throughout the farm, and don’t forget to grab some yummy kettle corn to snack on while you watch those hysterical pig races!” Find all the details at klausmeyerdairyfarms.com.

Marietta Farm, Andover

This family-friendly environment opens September 23. According to their website, the 2023 season includes “everything you can imagine from corn cribs, playgrounds, corn cannons, maze, bounce houses, train rides, and more.” With a variety of photo opportunities, this iconic location is a sure way to grow some extra fun in the harvest season. Make sure to check their website for pricing and admission, as some activities are free while others charge a fee. Regardless, everyone will find something they can enjoy at Marietta Farm. Click over to mariettafarm.com for more info.

Meadowlark Farm, Rose Hill

This farm offers pick-your-own fruits and vegetables from June through October. Owners Tom and Gina have created a relaxed and idyllic place where folks come for the fresh produce and stay for the ambiance. Their pumpkin patch opens around mid to late September and features photo opportunities, hayrides and an autumn environment where families and other groups can picnic and relax with a delicious glass of cider. Visit their store for fresh produce as well as other seasonal goodies and treats. Discover all the details at themeadowlarkfarm.com.

Walter’s Pumpkin Patch, Burns

With plenty of accolades and awards for their 73-acre pumpkin patch, a fall day at Walter’s will be one to remember. Each year, owners Carrol and Becky, alongside their staff, add a plethora of fun attractions and tasty food to their farm to draw fall explorers. Their yearly Pumpkinfest, beginning September 16 and running through the end of October, has no end of activities and sights. The question is, which one? This spectacular farm has eight areas with plenty of activities for the whole family: the Woodlands, Prairie Playground, Crow’s Nest, Railroad Pass, Riverside, Addition, Fun Acres and Mountain Side — each with their own entertainment. One thing’s for sure, no one who goes to Walter’s Pumpkin Patch will ever be bored! Plan your day at thewaltersfarm.com.

See listed websites for locations, contact information, admission prices, group and event options, and hours of operations. Most patches will open mid to late September. Start your fall fun ASAP!

Q. What is the mission of ProTeX?

A. In 2005, when Mr. Wes Gage started the company in Tempe, Arizona, ProTeX was very small — one or two guys conducting material inspections — and Mr. Gage’s motto was, and still is: “Bringing everyone we work with the very best of who we are and what we do.” It continues to be something we strive for in all departments 18 years later.

Q. What services does your organization provide?

A. We are professional testing (PT) experts and provide construction support services, which include environmental services, geotechnical engineering, material testing, special inspections, laboratory services, engineering and design.

• ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES — Our technicians and geologists are experienced with hundreds of Phase I, II and III environmental site assessments, asbestos, lead and mold inspections, UST and excavation oversight, soil and groundwater sampling, as well as corrective action plan preparation, overall project management and expert witness testimony.

• GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEERING — Our engineering staff has over 100 years combined experience providing geotechnical engineering services, foundation, pavement and constructibility recommendations, slope stability analysis and drainage review.

• MATERIAL TESTING — Our highly experienced field personnel are qualified in every manner of construction project, providing construction materials testing, sampling and testing of soils during earthwork, wet and dry utilities, concrete for sidewalks, curb and gutter, driveways, placement ABC, and asphaltic concrete (AC).

• SPECIAL INSPECTIONS — Our staff and engineers offer a wide range of experience and certifications dealing with special inspections: structural steel, welding, masonry, concrete inspections and more.

• LABORATORY SERVICES — We have three full-service construction material labs, providing specialized testing in concrete, soils, asphaltic concrete and ABC. ProTeX is CCRL and Department of Transportation (DOT) certified.

• ENGINEERING and DESIGN — Pavement design, pavement rehabilitation, soils cement design, subgrade and foundation support recommendations.

Q. Do you have any additional services?

A. While the main business models for ProTeX are environmental engineering, civil engineering and geological engineering, land surveying is another service ProTeX routinely provides to clientele. We are able to do that as ProTeX owns Strategic Surveying, where land surveying services (ALTA surveys, etc.) are the main scope of business.

Q. What market sectors does ProTeX serve?

A. Our four office locations serve residential, governmental, commercial, Native American, energy and highway projects in Kansas, Arizona, Colorado, Nevada and New Mexico. The overwhelming majority of our clientele are home builders and different types of developers.

With Ritchie Bump Director of Environmental Services ProTeX

Key Team Members

RITCHIE BUMP

Director of environmental services

Over 25 years of environmental consulting and contracting experience

Registrations and certifications:

• AHERA 2-hour asbestos awareness (teaches)

• Asbestos building inspector (several states)

• Lead-paint inspector

• AGCA electrical lockout/tagout

• AGCA fall protection

• 40-Hour HAZWOPER certified

EMILY ROGERS, R.G.

Environmental senior project manager

Over 25 years total industry experience

Registrations and certifications:

• Registered geologist: Arizona

• Professional geologist: Illinois

• 40-Hour HAZWOPER certified

JEFF RITTER

Project manager, vice president

29 years total industry experience

Registrations and certifications:

• ATTI field certified

• ATTI soils and aggregate certified

• ATTI asphalt lab certified

• ACI field certified

• Nuclear safety certified, HAZMAT certified

• MSHA safety certified

• CPR and first aid certified

JERRY GROTHARTH

Soils lab manager

33 years total industry experience

Registrations and certifications:

• ACI field certified

• Nuclear safety certified

• ACI concrete strength

• ATTI asphalt lab certified

• ATTI soils and aggregate certified

Where to Find Them

ProTeX Wichita office 450 N. 159th St. E. Wichita, KS 67230 316.247.0780

www.protex-az.com

By Nahid Holmes | Design Source Interiors

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

technology while listening to each patient’s needs and customizing care plans.

7:30 pm September 15

Orpheum Theatre

Catered private dinner and performance

6:30 pm September 17

Odd Fellow Hall

For tickets to either event, visit wichitagrandopera.org or call 316.683.3444.