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.
How long have you been with SPLURGE?
Three years.
How many pets do you have?
Just one — Nellie our dog.
Do you have a favorite fall sport?
Football. What else is there in fall?
What’s your hidden talent?
Playing guitar. Drawing. Singing. Fixing things that people normally pay to get fixed.
Favorite thing to do for fun?
Anything outside. Hunt, fish, be in the woods, relax and drink beer.
What was your first job?
Ninth grade, working for a guy who repaired cars and raced Corvettes on the side.
Do you have any collections?
Just little knick-knacks like petrified wood or animal teeth, a Jack’s Bait-N-Tackle book of matches from the 70’s (a place by the Walnut River in Ark City we would ride our bikes to before going fishing).
Stuff like that.
What kind of art do you do just for fun?
Drawing or painting wildlife, forging knives when I have time.
Who had the biggest impact on your life?
My parents. They gave me a great childhood and raised me right.
One piece of advice you’ll never forget?
Watch for bootlegs and reverses, from my WSU football coach, the great Willie “Jeff” Jeffries.
12828 E. 13th N., Wichita, KS 67230 316.267.3678 @splurgeict splurgemag.com
Publishing Company Inspired Koncepts, Inc.
Owners Dr. Terry and Jody Klein
Dr. Dennis and Ann Ross Steve Ruud
Publisher and President Jody Klein - jody@splurgemag.com
Associate Publisher Kelsey Ralston - kelsey@splurgemag.com
Lead Editor Karen Long - proofing@splurgemag.com
Director of Operations Jessika Mayer - splurgeoffice@gmail.com
Account Executives Kim Azaria - kim@splurgemag.com
Debi Devor-Mullins - debi@splurgemag.com
Dawn Tucker - dawn@splurgemag.com Julie Hying - hyingj@usd385.org
Accounting Firm of Esther M. Mollhagen, CPA
Graphic Design Mitch Gee
Contributing Writers Julie Underwood Burton, Alexis Evans, Paige Feikert, Julie Hying, Caroline Jones, Dawn Tucker
Guest Columnists Eric Litwiller
Fashion Photography Tobie Andrews
Local Faces Photography Michael Carroll Jr.
Amelia Phommachanh sparkles onstage — but she’s also quick to share more vulnerable memories of suicidal ideation at age 14. Her platform of suicide prevention is a core mission well beyond the pageant stage.
23
Love Pickle. Stop Cancer. Wichita has been part of the story of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital since the very beginning, back in the 1950s. The next chapter is the popular pickleball tournament called Love Pickle. Stop Cancer.
34
Have a closet full of clothes but nothing to wear? You could be a candidate for a capsule wardrobe. Find inspiration, simplicity and sustainability in a small, select wardrobe where everything matches.
Since he was three years old Fin Andrews has been playing chess — the past nine years with chess coach Josh Fernandes. Now 17-year-old Fin enjoys the competition and strategy in tournaments at the local and state level.
Model
Amelia Phommachanh
Location
iTzcali Tapas & Tequila
Photographer Darrin Hackney
61
Downtown Chili Cookoff
Fire up the chili burners on the streets of Wichita — it’s September and that means it’s time for the spicy, savory challenge known as the Wichita Wagonmasters Downtown Chili Cookoff. May the best chef win.
12 - Beautiful Minds Gala
70 - Rattan and Wood Decor
74 - Art al Fresco
Q. What is a challenge you face in assisted living?
A. One of the biggest challenges in assisted living is balancing the residents’ needs with their desire for independence. Finding this balance is crucial because it impacts their quality of life and overall well-being. By encouraging open communication and building strong relationships with residents and their families, we can adapt our services to meet their evolving needs. Overall, the key is to strike a balance between providing care and encouraging independence, ensuring residents feel respected and valued in their home environment.
Q. Tell us a little about your role at Larksfield Place.
A. As the executive director of assisted living at Larksfield Place, my primary responsibility is to oversee the general operations of our assisted living community. This involves managing key services and programs in accordance with our established policies and procedures, as well as ensuring compliance with current federal, state and local standards. I assure that each resident receives the necessary medical, nursing and psychosocial services they need to attain and maintain the highest possible mental and physical functional status.
Q. What are your hobbies?
A. Going on adventures with my three-year-old son, Greyson. We love playing outside, building with Legos, exploring local parks and learning all about dinosaurs together. He recently discovered his love of lakes and jet skis! Greyson and I also spend a lot of time at Risk Barbell. Powerlifting is a love of mine and a great way to work on my strength, relieve stress and teach Greyson the importance of physical activity and exercise.
With Jess Easterwood, LNHA, CMDCP Executive Director of Assisted Living, Larksfield Place
Q. How can readers learn more about Larksfield Place?
A. Readers can reach us directly at 316.361.2800, where our friendly staff will be happy to answer any questions they may have regarding Larksfield Place Assisted Living, Long Term Care and Independent Living. Our website, larksfield.org, is also a valuable resource, providing detailed information about our services, amenities and community life. Additionally, we warmly welcome you to stop by anytime for a tour. Seeing our vibrant community firsthand is the best way to experience what makes Larksfield Place special.
Written by Paige Feikert
Earlier this summer Amelia Phommachanh stood on a stage in Overland Park wearing a sparkling red gown and an excited smile alongside four other contestants for Miss Kansas USA. The 20-yearold Derby native was one of the top five during her first time on stage, ultimately earning third runner-up.
It’s a far cry from the place Phommachanh found herself six years ago, a time that’s central to her mission online and in front of pageant crowds and judges. At 14, Phommachanh suffered a mental health crisis, and was admitted to the hospital with suicidal ideations and a near suicide attempt. Phommachanh says it was a transitional time in her life — her parents were going through a divorce, she was switching schools, and now she recognizes that she didn’t have the tools to cope with her pain.
“I knew one thing — I didn’t want to die, I just wanted my pain to stop,” Phommachanh said. “As soon as I figured that out, I was able to talk to people and get help to properly cope.”
According to a 2023 report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 22 percent of high school students reported having seriously considered suicide in 2022, and 10 percent of high school students attempted suicide in 2022. Phommachanh recognized that other teens and young adults have experienced the same mental health challenges she felt six years ago, and through pageants she felt empowered to share her story with others.
“Before pageants came into my life, I felt a lack of direction in where I wanted to go and what I wanted to do; I knew I had a platform but didn’t know how to use it,” Phommachanh said.
At just 17 Phommachanh competed in her first pageant: Miss Kansas Teen. While she enjoyed the pageant, she thought her career in pageants was over, until she was approached by the organizers of the Miss Wichita Asian Festival pageant. Phommachanh is Laotian, but didn’t always feel so connected to her Laotian roots, until the Miss Asian Festival pageant opened her eyes to the Asian community and culture in Wichita.
“I was completely blown away when I set foot on that Miss Asian Festival stage and saw all the unique cultures come to light,” Phommachanh said. “To understand my family’s fight for freedom and truly finding that voice has totally inspired and changed my journey.”
Phommachanh earned recognition as Miss Asian Cultural Ambassador in 2023, and then became a finalist in Miss Kansas America with the platform “HEAR For You: Suicide Prevention,” with the acronym HEAR standing for help, empathy, awareness and real
conversation. Earlier this year, Phommachanh earned the title of Miss Derby USA through the Miss ICT USA organization, which brought her to that Overland Park stage in June of this year where the final question was: “What would you tell your younger self?”
“You know, growing up I had a mental health crisis, but if there’s one thing I could tell my younger self it’s that there is light at the end of the tunnel and it does get better,” Phommachanh said. “I wasn’t able to identify, I wasn’t able to understand that this pain that I felt right now was temporary, but as an adult I can understand that.”
“I am so much more than the emotions that I face, we are so much more than the challenges we face, there is so much light at the end of the tunnel.” — Amelia Phommachanh
Now, Phommachanh has made suicide prevention a core mission well beyond the pageant stage. She is a board member for Mental Health America of South-Central Kansas. As a mentor for teenagers and kids, she partners with the National Alliance on Mental Illness for their End the Silence campaign where she shares her story with middle and high school students, and she promotes mental health to her 3,300 Instagram followers and her nearly 100k followerson TikTok.
Phommachanh’s Instagram page links to the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, and her bio reads “be good to people for no reason.” She shares photos and videos makeup-free sharing her life behind the scenes alongside videos of her in full glam modeling or taking the stage for a pageant.
“Comparison is the number one thief of joy, and as somebody who’s grown up on social media that’s something I’ve had to navigate for myself,” Phommachanh said. “It’s combatting the romanticized thoughts and showing the reality of it.”
Phommachanh says she makes mental health a priority in her personal life — she talks to people often about how she feels; she journals, leans on her faith, works in her gardens and cares for her plants, exercises and spends quality time with her loved ones. She prioritizes time for rest and reflection.
“Keep your inner circle small to people you trust, so you aren’t giving out your energy to everyone,” Phommachanh said. “Your energy is so sacred. It’s okay to go out and speak to people and that’s what I do because that fulfills me, but it’s also taking that time to recharge.”
At just 20 years old, Phommachanh says she has so much to reflect on, and so much to look forward to: “That Amelia who experienced a mental health crisis didn’t think there was hope in the future. It’s really about reflecting and realizing there’s so much more — there’s so much more than what you know.”
Phommachanh was recently named Miss ICT USA. While her pageant career continues to bloom, she is also focused on her modeling career and will soon graduate with her associate’s degree in digital marketing. When asked what the future holds, Phommachanh rattles off several ideas, but at the heart of them all, she wants to help people.
“At the end of the day I’m human. I still struggle — we all do — but it’s about understanding the struggle and moving forward from it,” Phommachanh said. “I am so much more than the emotions that I face, we are so much more than the challenges we face, there is so much light at the end of the tunnel.”
You can follow Phommachanh’s mission on Instagram or TikTok at @memepho.
Written by Eric Litwiller | MHA Director of Development and Communications
A new truck to move those living with mental illness into safe and stable housing off the streets of Wichita. Employees who provide no-cost education sessions to our city’s corporate sector, helping them know what to look for when it comes to mental health concerns at work. The ability to provide mental health care across all ages, without regard for financial circumstances.
This is just a minuscule sampling of what your investment in Mental Health America can and does provide to the entire south central Kansas region when you support our annual Beautiful Minds Gala. Some companies offer direct support to programs that are in line with their philanthropic goals. Others sponsor the gala, or attend the event. Some have a #ProjectChangeLives container in their office. Others purchase badly needed durable program items from our Amazon wish-list.
However the support comes in, MHA stewards our gifts to ensure the highest possible utilization of our scarce resources to serve those living with anxiety, depression or substance use disorders in and around Wichita. Your investment shines a light into the dark corners where mental illness has lived for far too long:
It’s your business partner, who doesn’t get a drink with you after work because of his social phobia. It’s your son, battling with and hiding his addiction that he thinks no one knows about. It’s your 9-year-old niece, who’s losing weight due to anorexia because a girl at school called her fat.
Sixty percent of all diagnosable mental illnesses are never brought into the light, but your support can change that. All of us at MHA have believed in that, from the moment of our founding here in Wichita in 1957, and we will continue to believe it as long as churches, civic and fraternal organizations, and business entities reach out to ask for our help in talking about and offering the hope of recovery that your family, friends, and co-workers need every day.
Mental illness doesn’t care how much money you make. Or what your job title is. Or in which ZIP code you live. It does not discriminate — which means that those who care about the issue cannot either. The support of Fidelity Bank, the Kansas Health Foundation, and Mariner Wealth Advisors — among many others — shows us that the message is getting out. And we hope that it’s getting out to you, too.
The 4th Annual Beautiful Minds Gala is almost here! Join us at the Wichita Art Museum on October 5th to win amazing trips to:
Space is limited, so don’t wait! Reserve your table for the Beautiful Minds Gala now!
Just like moons and like suns, With the certainty of tides, Just like hopes springing high, Still I’ll rise. — Maya Angelou
Written by Julie Hying
Moving through the waters of grief can feel overwhelming and unfamiliar. The waves that wash over us seem unyielding, perhaps relentless. Although these times of difficulty present challenges, hope resides in a single reassuring thought: even in grief, joy can be found. Joyful moments, fleeting or ongoing, nurture the soul and allow people to pass through the stages of grief and transcend those emotions through gratitude.
Life, at times, is enveloped in loss: the end of a relationship or friendship, someone moving far away, an unexpected career change, a devastating diagnosis, the loss of a loved one. These fundamental changes present many challenges and create a personal sense of stress that leads to grief. Elisabeth Kubler-Ross, an expert in the fields of psychiatry, hospice and palliative care as well as bioethics and grief, is renowned for the Kubler-Ross model, which outlines the five stages of grief: denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance. Working through these stages can be a process that takes months or even years. Every person is unique, and there is no set pattern, consistency or linear way to experience the grieving stages. Since these emotions can be very strong, simply recognizing them on a logical or cerebral level and acknowledging their existence may be a first step to moving toward peace.
Speaking with a supportive friend or family member, perhaps a counselor or therapist, can help a person who is in denial or one who cannot come to terms with the current situation. Some of life’s realities reveal themselves, and it can be far from easy to know how to handle them in our already full and busy lives. Seeking or accepting support is a solid first step. With devastating news, it is natural that anger follows. Reactions may erupt without warning. When a person can come to recognize that the anger is a secondary emotion caused by a deeper one, he or she can detach from that emotion and respond rather than react. Moving through initial anger and letting go of some it frees a person to have other thoughts and feelings.
Sometimes, desperation sets in, and someone can find themselves attempting to bargain for a better deal. The “what ifs” and “if onlys” loom large in the attempt to overcome the problem. According to experts, this is the stage that people quickly pass through since there is no potential for possibility, like clinging to a sinking ship.
When a deep sense of sadness settles upon us, we may find ourselves in a state of depression. The weight of a new reality and the burdens it entails can be daunting. It leaves us with a false sense that there is permanence in the hurt and loss we are feeling, that life will never feel better. While in this stage of the grieving process, it is critical to seek support of some kind.
Understanding that you are not alone in these very natural emotions can lead one from the boundless sea of denial to the shores of acceptance. It is not an acceptance of the tragedy or loss but rather an acceptance of a new reality in which one resides. In that acceptance, there is joy. In accepting, there is hope. It is a quiet acknowledgement that grief will always be there, but we can be released from the pain that initially arrived with the grief. And hopefully, we find our way to the ultimate goals, remembering with peace and joy the person or relationship that is no longer ours and knowing there are still good days ahead.
Write it on your heart that every day is the best day in the year. This new day is too dear, with its hopes and invitations, to waste a moment on the yesterdays. — Ralph
Waldo Emerson
$2,590,000
• Inside and outside living areas - an entertainers paradise
• Chef's kitchen
• Elevator to access all of the homes levels
• Custom designed heated salt water swimming pool
• Private access to Terradyne golf course along with a one year executive membership to Terradyne Country Club
• Fully appointed and furnished detached guest apartment
• Andover schools
Written by Caroline Jones
Are you generally healthy and over the age of 18? You could have a direct impact on the health and wellness of your community.
Though bird flu is not often seen in humans, patients tend to have a high mortality rate, and there has been an uptick in reported human cases of bird flu in the US this year. Dr. Terry Klein and his team at AMR are working to stay ahead of the issue, creating an important role for you in the protection of the Wichita community.
Q. What is bird flu?
A. Bird flu (or avian influenza) is an infection from a type of influenza virus that usually spreads in birds and other animals. In general, one of the most common types of bird flu is influenza A (or H5N1), which is named based on the type of proteins on the surface of the virus. People who work with poultry, waterfowl and livestock are most at risk of catching this from infected animals. While symptoms often look like those of other types of flu, the severe complications of bird flu can lead to pneumonia, acute respiratory distress, bacterial infections, sepsis, brain swelling and respiratory failure.
Q. How common is it for a human to catch bird flu?
A. Because it is extremely rare for bird flu to pass from person to person, the risk of human infection is usually highest when there’s an outbreak affecting large numbers of birds or other animals. However, we have seen a recent rise in the number of human cases in the US: Compared to 14 total reported human cases in the US since 2022, we’ve seen an additional 13 human cases of avian influenza A since April 2024. The mortality rate for bird flu in humans is very high; over 50 percent of all people diagnosed with bird flu die from it.
Q. What is this study about?
A. We are doing pre-pandemic planning with this study, and we hope to find a vaccination directed specifically against the bird flu that will allow the community to fight the virus more effectively in the long run. These vaccinations have been given to people in previous studies, and the safety margins have been exactly what we predicted. While past studies have helped to identify specific viral types and proteins, we are trying to build a product that provides protection against this specific virus.
Dr. Terry Klein Partner at Wichita Research Facility AMR
Q. What will the process look like for study participants?
A. This study will follow the typical, time-tested method for vaccination development, and we are expecting it to last about 203 days per participant. During this time, you’ll complete an initial patient history and testing, receive an initial dose of the vaccination, and another dose by injection about three weeks later. Patients will receive financial compensation for their participation in the study.
Q. Who can participate in this study?
A. We are looking for male and female patients 18 years and older who are generally healthy and medically stable. This study will be offered at multiple locations in and around Wichita, so we suggest contacting our team for location details.
To participate in AMR’s bird flu clinical trial, call 316.867.6329.
Dr. Joseph Houlik
“This magic moment, so different and so new.” These are great lyrics to a classic song by the Drifters, which happened to come on when we were finishing up Sandi’s smile.
For the longest time Sandi wasn’t happy with her teeth. She was afraid to smile; she didn’t want to smile. Over time we had repaired multiple teeth and did our best to fix things in the most cost-effective manner.
For years the main factor holding her back was the cost. A few events transpired in her life to provide the finances and pave the way to the smile she always wanted.
As always, a well thought-out plan is a great place to start. Our goals were to replace the missing teeth, fill any cavities, replace old crowns and enhance the length, color and shape while making it all blend together.
Our first step was to create the blueprint and design her new smile. After working on the teeth, we delivered her provisional restorations, which allowed her to take the new teeth for a test drive and confirm the direction we were headed. Finally, we delivered her definitive restorations.
“I decided to get my teeth done by Dr Houlik. It was an amazing transformation to say the least and well worth it! He did an amazing job. He explained everything, made sure I was comfortable and everything went smoothly! I’m so thrilled and have my smile back again! Thank you! If you’ve ever thought of doing this I highly recommend him!”
WICHITA GRAND OPERA FUNDRAISER AND CANDIDE
MEET AND GREET WITH KELSEY GRAMMER
Ambassador Hotel & Century II
Written by Mackenzie Booth
In the late 1950s, when a child was diagnosed with pediatric cancer, it was considered a death sentence. Words like “cure” were never uttered, and treatment protocols mostly involved end-of-life comfort and care. The survival rate for acute lymphoblastic leukemia, the most common form of childhood cancer, was less than four percent.
It was around this same time that Danny Thomas was a young entertainer, with a baby on the way. Work wasn’t easy to come by and his despair grew. He turned to St. Jude Thaddeus, the patron saint of hopeless causes, and vowed:
“Show me my way in life, and I will build you a shrine.”
That prayer marked a pivotal moment. Soon after, he began finding work, eventually becoming one of the biggest talents of radio, film and television in his day. He starred in “Make Room for Daddy,” later known as “The Danny Thomas Show.”
In remembering his vow to St. Jude, Thomas first visited Wichita as part of a nationwide fundraising tour that would lay the foundation for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. As a Lebanese-American, Danny had many friends around the country who shared not only his heritage, but also his passion for taking on what seemed like an impossible task — curing childhood cancer.
One of those dear friends was Wichita’s own William F. Farha. And not only did the foundation for St. Jude begin as part of that meeting, but it also began a family legacy of supporting St. Jude that continued with his son William G. Farha through the inception of the Wichita St. Jude Dream Home Giveaway in 2016. That legacy continues today with W.G. Farha, William’s grandson and the chair of the inaugural Love Pickle. Stop Cancer. pickleball tournament, which raised $150,000 in its inaugural year.
“So many of our supporters know of St. Jude through the stories of patients in our impactful television commercials. And these are
“Anytime Bella needed a medication for her treatment, they overnighted it to our doorstep by FedEx.”
— Local patient father, Josh
real stories of hope, joy and triumph,” says ALSAC/St. Jude area executive director, David Ochoa. “What isn’t seen is the dedicated physician scientists who are literally working around the clock to find the next advancement in treatment. These researchers are key in fulfilling the second part of our mission — finding cures.”
One of the core tenets of the mission of St. Jude’s is that no family ever receives a bill for treatment, housing or transportation. Local patient father Josh shared his, and his daughter Bella’s, St. Jude journey with guests at the evening celebration. Bella was diagnosed with a rare brain tumor and traveled to St. Jude for treatment.
“Here’s where St. Jude has really impacted us: Anytime Bella needed a medication for her treatment, they overnighted it to our doorstep by FedEx. They’ve also kept us from going bankrupt. We’ve never had the anxiety of going to the mailbox and thinking, ‘How much did that treatment cost?’
“There’s so much joy. St. Jude is such an amazing place because it gives children and families hope.”
For more information on sponsorship opportunities for the 2025 Love Pickle. Stop Cancer. tournament, please contact Mackenzie Booth at Mackenzie.Booth@alsac.stjude.org or 816.400.5780.
Follow St. Jude on Facebook and Instagram for an upcoming announcement on the 2025 event date and other ways to support them.
@stjudemidamerica
Written by Jessika Mayer
When people are suffering from depression, they often seek effective solutions. Thankfully, those solutions don’t always have to come from a pill bottle. While antidepressants can be beneficial, they often come with a range of unpleasant side effects, and some patients find little to no relief despite trying multiple medications. If you’re looking for an alternative treatment, there’s good news.
Dr. Darcy Buehler, owner of Affiliated Family Counselors, is excited to offer an in-office treatment designed to help those struggling with debilitating depression. The treatment is called NeuroStar, and it’s covered by most commercial and government health plans.
NeuroStar uses targeted magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain, providing relief to individuals suffering from major depressive disorder. Psychiatrist Dr. Paul Murphy, also with Affiliated Family Counselors, is proud to be among the first in the region to offer this proven and effective treatment.
“Major depression is a serious illness that affects over 14 million Americans,” says Dr. Murphy. “While antidepressant medications can be helpful in managing symptoms, clinical studies suggest that an estimated 4 million patients do not benefit from standard treatments, often due to inadequate response or intolerance to side effects.”
This is where NeuroStar makes a significant difference. By activating the brain’s natural neurotransmitter functions using a non-invasive magnetic field, similar to that of an MRI, NeuroStar treats depression at its source with precision.
To date, over one million treatments have been performed. This innovative, FDA-cleared approach is drug-free and non-invasive, offering a promising alternative for those who have struggled with traditional treatments. Patients who have undergone NeuroStar treatment report “significant, long-lasting improvement.”
Treatment sessions last between 19 to 37 minutes, five days a week, for four to six weeks. Anesthesia or sedation is not required, and the only discomfort reported is mild pain at or near the treatment site.
For more information, visit afcwichita.com or call 316.636.28 88.
“When you’re depressed, you’re constantly fighting to survive the next day. NeuroStar made a huge difference. I suddenly felt empowered, strong and no longer a victim.”
— Debbie
“I had tried 11 different medications without any relief. NeuroStar treatment has helped me reclaim my life, bringing me a happiness I had never experienced before.”
— Todd
“NeuroStar treatment has changed my life. It’s given me life, joy, and new opportunities.”
— Colleen
Where to Find Them
For those struggling with debilitating depression, NeuroStar offers significant, long-lasting improvement. Affiliated Family Counselors is excited to offer this proven treatment, which uses a non-invasive magnetic field similar to an MRI to activate the natural function of the brain's neurotransmitters.
NeuroStar has been cleared by the FDA as a non-drug, non-invasive approach, and psychiatrist Dr. Paul Murphy is proud to be among the first in the area to offer this proven treatment.
• Safe and effective without the common side effects of medication
• Revitalizes inactive synapses in the brain
• Accepted by most major insurance
Major depression is a serious illness that affects over 14 million Americans, and 4 million of them don’t respond well to standard antidepressant medications.
83% of patients completing NeuroStar treatment experienced measurable depression relief, and 62% experienced full remission of their depression symptoms.
Open the curtain to magic as the Wichita Grand Opera unveils its captivating 2024–25 season — an enchanted lineup that will transport you to the realms of imagination and wonder.
First, immerse yourself in the haunting beauty of Dvorak’s “Rusalka” (The Little Mermaid), the poignant tale of a captivating water nymph who sacrifices her very voice to become human and win the love of a dashing prince. But as the witch Ježibaba warns, Rusalka’s transformation comes at a dire cost — if she fails to secure the prince’s affection, she and he will be forever damned. Come and be swept away by the romantic beauty of this poetic tale of love, risk and the unpredictable pathways of the heart.
This will be a new production by the WGO and projection designer Jordan Slusher, who is well known in Wichita and beyond for his gorgeous visuals. Bringing this new production to life are artists carefully selected by artistic director Whitney Reader, who has assembled a cast of seasoned performers and local Kansan artists.
Next, join beloved siblings Hansel and Gretel on a delightful and perilous journey through a mysterious forest. Lured by a magical house made entirely of sweets, the hungry children soon discover a dark secret — a wicked witch who captures children to turn them into gingerbread and devour them. Using their wits and courage, Hansel and Gretel must outwit the witch and free the other captive children in this timeless tale of bravery, faith in the face of fear, and the triumph of good over evil. Redolent with beautiful music, this production will enchant audiences of all ages.
Mr. Reader is delighted to bring “Hansel and Gretel” to Wichita, as this opera holds a special place in his heart. In Germany, this piece is a cherished masterpiece and has been performed across the country every year during the Christmas season since its premiere in 1893. Two wonderful young talents grace the stage for the title roles of Hansel (Stephanie Shelden of Wichita) and Gretel (Theresa Carlomagno of New York City. Also appearing on stage are native Wichitan Brian Yeakley and newly adopted Kansan Hilary Grace Taylor of the Wichita State University voice faculty. The WGO has also enlisted the talented children of the Wichita Community Children’s Chorus.
Rounding out this fairy tale extravaganza is Rossini’s enchanting operatic twist on the classic Cinderella story, “La Cenerentola.” Take in hilarious comedy and glittering melodies as the kind-hearted Cenerentola captures the true prince’s heart — not with a glass slipper, but with a pair of matching bracelets. Witness delightful hijinks and family tensions as the prince, in disguise, seeks a bride for her nobility of character rather than for her appearance. This production proves that dreams really do come true when inner beauty shines through.
Prepare to be swept away by the sheer wonder of it all as the Wichita Grand Opera takes you on an unforgettable journey into the magical world of fairy tales. Here, the power of love and courage overcomes the direst of perils, and the most enchanting dreams come to life before your eyes. This 2024–25 season is a must-see celebration of timeless classics that will captivate audiences of all ages.
Season tickets are on sale now at Selectaseat.com — don’t miss your chance to experience the magic. Wichita Grand Opera’s fairy tale favorites await!
Written by Caroline Jones
Firstborn Suzana Hernandez grew up in a Mexican household in McAllen, Texas. When she was 12 years old, she responded to trauma and familial rejection by turning to the most popular drug in her area: free-base cocaine.
“I’m from the border, and the border is just high drug trafficking,” she said. “Everybody you know has at least one person in their family that deals. In my mind, I was like, ‘I’ll show you that I can run with the best of them.’ It spiraled very quickly.”
When Hernandez learned that she was pregnant with her third child while still using cocaine daily, she got clean by moving to Iowa. Though she knew no one in the state, she gave birth before quickly relapsing due to the prevalence of crack cocaine in the area. As a situation with domestic violence worsened, Child Protective Services got involved. “I was not able to stay clean, and they removed my kids from the home. When they removed the kids, that’s when everything spiraled,” she said. Her children were adopted by a church friend, and Hernandez moved to Wichita, saying that she wanted to “get clean somewhere where nobody knows me.” Unfortunately, she soon fell into old habits.
“Nothing big happened because the kids were gone. I had bought houses and lost them, I’d moved, I’d lost family connections,” she said. “One day I was just done. It just wasn’t fun anymore, and there was really nothing to do it for. And I remember I was sitting on the edge of a bed, and it just hit me. What if I do it for me?”
Today, almost 13 years later, Hernandez has rededicated her life to helping Wichitans get out of the ruthless cycle of domestic violence and substance abuse. Among many other titles and positions, she has led women’s and men’s domestic violence and substance abuse groups, and she has taught classes at Wichita State University advocating for the formerly incarcerated. She has been invited two years in a row to speak about that topic at the Kansas Community Health Worker Symposium, which took place at WSU. She is currently a Kansas-certified peer mentor and a community health worker coordinator.
Hernandez and her staff also help Center for Change patients overcome their addictions.
“I have an ex-coworker who actually works with Dr. Lakin part-time. She gave us a recommendation to go in, and they were very happy with our services,” Hernandez said. “That’s been part of the relationships built because of my recovery. Everything leads back to the recovery. If there was no recovery, I wouldn’t be able to do what I do.”
When Hernandez looks back on her 25 years of cocaine addiction, she sees a story of hope.
“It doesn’t matter how deep you go. You can come back from anything. You just have to put in the work.”
Wichita Marriott
Written by Paige Feikert
Monday mornings are daunting, but nothing tops a Thursday morning outfit struggle — staring at a dull closet, uninspired and already three business casual outfits into the week. Sometimes it feels like no matter how you try to refresh your wardrobe, it quickly becomes drab and mostly unworn, and by the next season you’re spending hundreds of dollars for a new refresh, only for the cycle to continue.
But a new trend is seeking to put an end to that cycle — cue the capsule wardrobe. The goal of a capsule wardrobe is to curate a small wardrobe — generally 30 to 50 items — where every piece looks good together.
“Your closet should be cohesive and that’s what a capsule wardrobe is; it completely goes together. It can be as loud and flamboyant or as classic and timeless as you want, there are no limits,” said stylist Adriele Dixon.
Dixon says step one of creating a capsule is understanding your needs and your wants — whether you have a job with a professional dress code, or you spend most of your time chasing your toddler around — you need a wardrobe that is functional for you. Capsule wardrobes are often made up of neutrals, but Dixon says that patterns and colors can be central to some personalities, and that can be reflected in a capsule wardrobe.
“Everything is tailored to the person. Say someone likes patterns on patterns, that could go in their capsule,” Dixon said.
“Really good style happens when people tend to step out of their comfort zone a little bit.”
— Adriele Dixon
Dixon says the bare bones list she gives her clients for a capsule wardrobe includes: three to four neutral tops, two button-ups, two blouses, two sweaters, two jeans, one trouser, one skirt,
one dress, one trench coat or wool coat, one blazer, one casual jacket (i.e. denim, bomber, leather, etc.), one white sneaker, one ballet flat or loafers, one black ankle boot and one heel. From here, she encourages her clients to build upon this list and make modifications. If, say, someone doesn’t prefer dresses or skirts, ditch them for another pair of pants.
Step two of building a capsule wardrobe is to take a look at what you have, and how it measures up to this list. Anything you don’t wear — get rid of it.
That brings up a few more considerations while building a capsule wardrobe: simplicity, sustainability and cost-effectiveness. Dixon says to keep it simple and buy sustainable pieces that are made well and will last a long time. This allows you to get more wearings per item, becoming less expensive over time, than if you were to buy something inexpensive that has a lower quality.
If you’re worried about getting bored with a small cohesive wardrobe, Dixon has a trick for that. She says take an afternoon and try on every single outfit combination you can imagine with your wardrobe and take a picture and save it in your phone. Then, at times when you want to freshen up your look, look through those pictures for new ideas.
“Having a visual helps tremendously to get you out of your own brain,” Dixon said. “Really good style happens when people tend to step out of their comfort zone a little bit.”
The change of seasons from summer to autumn may be the perfect time to take a look at your wardrobe and make some changes. “If someone hasn’t done a capsule wardrobe before, I say just try it for a season instead of trying to do an entire year capsule, because that can be daunting,” Dixon said.
“If you start ignoring all the fads and you pick what looks good on you, you’ll be fine and you’ll look cute and you don’t have to worry about it.”
You can reach Dixon via email at adriele.dixon@gmail.com or on Instagram at @styleassisted.
Written by Julie Underwood Burton
Q. When did the dream for iTzcali begin?
A. The dream for iTzcali began as a true labor of love. My husband Navid and I embarked on this journey at the onset of the pandemic, diving headfirst into the restaurant’s construction. Little did we know the process would take much longer than anticipated, with many setbacks caused by the challenges of Covid. Despite the obstacles beyond our control, we remained determined to see our vision through. Navid, an art major from Wichita State, poured his creative energy into every detail of the restaurant.
Q. Why did you both choose to pursue a career in the restaurant business?
A. Our journey into the restaurant business is a blend of our cultural roots and shared passions. I was born in Wichita with Mexican-American heritage, while Navid, born in Iran, carries a rich Iranian and Mexican background. Over the years, our weekly lunch and dinner dates became a cherished tradition, allowing us to explore and appreciate the local food scene. We often joked about opening our own restaurant, never taking it seriously until Covid hit. As the pandemic took hold and restaurants began to close, we found ourselves at home with time to reflect. Those casual jokes turned into serious conversations, and when Navid asked if I wanted to build our own restaurant, I didn’t hesitate.
Q. How did you decide on the concept for iTzcali?
A. The concept for iTzcali was born from our vision to create an upscale dining experience that elegantly blends our cultural heritage with contemporary influences. The name “iTzcali” is derived from the Nahuatl language of the Aztecs and means “house of beauty,” which encapsulates our vision. At the heart of our concept is the idea of shared experiences. Drawing inspiration from the Spanish tradition of tapas, we designed our menu to encourage communal connection.
Q. What do patrons love most about iTzcali?
A. Our menu, crafted with authentic, high-quality ingredients, offers a symphony of flavors: bold and spicy, yet nuanced and savory. With seating for up to 300 guests, our spacious yet intimately designed dining areas ensure that each visit is memorable by blending grand scale with personalized elegance. A standout feature of iTzcali is our bar, which boasts an extraordinary collection of over 500 premium tequilas, complemented by an extensive selection of meticulously crafted cocktails. Our margaritas, expertly prepared with fresh citrus ingredients, are a particular favorite. iTzcali offers a happy hour every Tuesday through Saturday until 6 p.m. and all day on Sunday during which time many appetizers are discounted. For more information or for reservations, call 316.358.9955. Reservations are not required but are encouraged to avoid wait times.
With Veronica Haeri Co-Owner, iTzcali Tapas & Tequila
Written by Julie Hying
- Deep fryer or skillet filled two-thirds full of vegetable oil
- Taco shell mold, or use two forks to fold taco wrap after about 30 seconds in oil
- Taco holders
1 Tbsp. olive oil
1 cup finely chopped yellow onion
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb. ground beef (85% lean)
2 tsp. chili powder
1 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. oregano (preferably Mexican)
1 tsp. garlic powder
1 tsp. smoked paprika
1 tsp. kosher salt
½ tsp. cayenne pepper
½ tsp. black pepper
1 Tbsp. flour
½ can Rotel
1 cup beef broth
12 corn tortillas
Vegetable oil for frying
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded lettuce, for garnish
1 cup tomatoes, seeded and diced, for garnish
Mateo’s medium or mild salsa for serving
Heat olive oil over medium-high heat in a skillet. Cook the onion until soft, about 4 minutes. Add the garlic, and sauté for another minute. Add the beef and brown, stirring often, using the spatula to mince until no longer pink. Tilt the skillet and use a large spoon to remove most of the rendered grease. Discard safely. Add all seasonings and the flour. Stir until well blended and aromatic, about one minute. Stir in 1 tbsp. all-purpose flour. Cook for another minute. Then add the Rotel and beef stock. Cook until thickened somewhat, stirring every few minutes until most of the liquid has cooked down, about 10 minutes total. The mixture should appear moisture rich, not runny or too dry.
Meanwhile, heat vegetable oil to 350ºF degrees. Fry corn tortillas in a deep fryer or in a skillet. (If using a skillet, place the tortilla in the hot oil for about 10 seconds. Then, using tongs and a fork, grab one end of the tortilla and gently fold it in half. Continue cooking for about 20 seconds. Then flip, and cook for another 20 or 30 seconds until golden and crisp).
2 lbs. boneless and skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch pieces
4 small or 3 medium zucchini, diced
1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
½ yellow onion, shredded
4 large garlic cloves, minced
1 cup fresh or frozen corn
1 Tbsp. olive oil for sautéing
1 14 oz. can of low-sodium black beans, rinsed and drained
1 14 oz. can of low-sodium diced tomatoes, not drained
1 Tbsp. taco seasoning, store-bought or homemade
1 Tbsp. cumin
1 tsp. salt
½ tsp. black pepper
1 cup Mexican or Colby Jack cheese, shredded
½ cup green onions, chopped
½ cup cilantro, chopped (optional)
Preheat a large, deep (12-inch) skillet on low to medium heat. Add and swirl oil to coat. Add onion, garlic and bell pepper; saute for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Move vegetables to the side of the skillet and add chicken. Sprinkle with 1 tsp. cumin, salt and black pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add corn, beans, tomatoes, zucchini, taco seasoning and remaining cumin. Stir, cover and cook on low-medium heat for 10 minutes. Sprinkle with cheese, cover and cook for a few minutes or until the cheese has melted. Top with green onion and cilantro.
1 lb. brisket from the flat cut
Salt and pepper
1 Tbsp. vegetable oil
1 yellow onion cut into disks
8 garlic cloves, peeled
¼ cup red wine vinegar
2 cups low-sodium beef broth
1 tsp. cumin
2 jalapeños, halved lengthwise and seeded ¼ cup chopped cilantro
2 poblano chiles
1 Tbsp. vegetable oil
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
12 6-inch flour tortillas
Preheat the oven to 250ºF. Season all sides of the brisket with salt and pepper. Heat the oil in a large oven-safe pot. Add the brisket and brown on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove the brisket from the pot. Add the onion to the pot and cook until browned, stirring occasionally. This should take about 10 minutes. Add the garlic cloves and cook for another 2 minutes.
Turn the heat off and add the vinegar, scraping the bottom of the pan as you pour to remove all of the pan drippings. Add the cumin, jalapeños, cilantro and bay leaf. Add the brisket back into the pot, fat side up, (along with any accumulated juices). Cover the pot with a lid and transfer to the oven. Cook for 5–6 hours (or 1 ½ hours per pound) until the meat is fork tender.
Remove the pot from the oven, take off the lid, and let it rest for 30 minutes. While the brisket is resting, turn the oven to broil. Place the peppers on a baking sheet (cover with foil first for easy clean up) and place in the oven. Let the peppers cook, turning every 5 minutes, until the peels are charred. It’s OK if there is some green left, but you want them mostly charred so that the skins will be easier to remove. This should take about 20–25 minutes. When the chiles are charred on all sides, transfer them to a heat-proof bowl and top the bowl with plastic wrap . Let the peppers sit until they are cool enough to handle. (The plastic wrap will help them to steam, which makes it easier to remove the peels)
When cool enough to handle, peel the skins off. If a few patches remain, that is ok, but you want the majority of the skin gone. Transfer to a cutting board and cut the peppers open. Discard the stems and the seeds. Cut the peppers into strips. Set aside.
Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring often, until the onions are soft, about 10 minutes. Add the pepper strips and cook for another minute then remove from the heat. Once the brisket has rested, remove it from the pot and cut off the fat. Shred the meat with 2 forks. Strain the remaining cooking liquid and discard the fat. Add 2 tablespoons of the liquid to the brisket and reserve the rest for serving. Add more salt and pepper to the brisket, if needed.
Heat the broiler. Place 3–6 tortillas on a baking sheet (however many you can fit without overlapping) and top each tortilla with 2 tablespoons of cheese. Place under the broiler until the cheese melts, about 30 seconds. Repeat with the remaining tortillas. Fill the tortillas with the shredded meat and the onions and peppers. Serve with the reserved liquid for dipping.
Written by Paige Feikert
If you’re anywhere near new construction, you might have seen Maddie Terstriep and her Pomeranian, Mike, flying a drone nearby. It’s one of Terstriep’s passions, and what propelled her to start Amaven — a Wichita-based business specializing in marketing, web design and small business consulting in the construction industry.
Terstriep worked in construction doing marketing and project management throughout college and shortly after, and found that videos from drones are particularly beneficial to the industry for progress, dimensions and building scans, among other benefits.
“We offer different packages — the most common one for building is completion, before and afters, or a lot of time it’s nice when developers have a project out of state and need a status update, then I’ll fly the drone around and send them the footage,” Terstriep said.
“It’s nice to see the lay of the land without having to walk it.”
Terstriep’s drone content is popular with those who aren’t in the construction industry, too, proven by her company’s more than 3,800 followers on Instagram, where Terstriep also shows off her branding work, social media marketing, real estate photography and day-in-the-life videos. In the construction space, Terstriep leans on her background to understand how to be strategic about the marketing messages and how they fit into the time of year, such as the best time of year to perform certain scopes of work specific to each contractor’s capabilities.
“I plan their marketing around the season and based on their team’s workload,” Terstriep said. “General contractors have to keep work flowing for their contractors, so we look at what we need to push for each quarter specific to each company’s needs.”
While the digital marketing, web design, photography and videography is a passion of hers, Terstriep also enjoys helping smaller general contractors manage the business side, including financials, scheduling, building team structure, and establishing general operating procedures.
“I like organizing from the base and expanding with the teambuilding structure throughout,” Terstriep said. “I enjoy the pretty side of it, the marketing, but I really like the deeper details and tracking progress month-to-month.”
Terstriep has always been drawn to construction in one way or another. She first went to Kansas State University to study architecture, but found that, while she enjoyed designing homes, she also enjoyed understanding the practicality of building homes, so she completed her degree instead in construction management.
“I started out in architecture because I liked to draw up houses, but we always had to stick to the modern look — it’s so funny, I would always put a roof on my projects and fail the assignment because they had a slope,” Terstriep said. “So one day when I went to present a project to a client, they said, ‘The cost is $3 million?,’ when my original budget was $2 million… — architects don’t typically learn that kind of process in most colleges, so I wanted a solid understanding of both.”
Amaven was created after Terstriep spent time in the construction field and often experienced her voice being diminished.
“I thought, if I could start this on my own, successfully, for multiple smaller contractors, then why not continue building together with more,” Terstriep said. “I feel happy that I can just wake up and do my own thing. I can work with my dogs by my side, and I feel like working one-on-one with a contractor really makes them appreciate my efforts.”
Terstriep has also worked on product marketing for specific tools such as Leachrod and in the fitness and restaurant spaces. You can check out Amaven online at amavenmedia.com.
Discover th at Friends Universit y
You're invited to immerse yourself in the arts in our newly remodeled Riney Fine Arts Center!
From an expanded, welcoming gallery space hosting first Friday exhibitions and receptions to the newly renovated Sebits Auditorium with upgrades that will enhance all performances in the space, an updated Black Box theatre for close-up performances and an added worship space, to miss a performance!
To see our full schedule and to purchase tickets visit friends.edu/fineartstickets or scan the QR code!
Talented, outstanding teens can be found all over the state of Kansas. Some come from the city and some are raised in rural areas, on farms or ranches. Their skills are emerging and being honed in schools and in so many other places. One Wichita teen, Finley Andrews, found his passion and unique skill set at the tender age of three when his parents, Brandon and Tobie Andrews, taught him the complex game of chess.
Now Fin, 17, has been working with chess coach Josh Fernandes for the past nine years. They share a deep love of the game, and Fernandes has joyfully shared his knowledge and expertise with his most devout pupil. In his second year of medical school, Fernandes has limited time to continue his teaching, but Tobie, Fin’s mom, says: “Throughout his high school and college years, Josh has made time around his studies and on college breaks to continue coaching Fin.”
Their relationship began through a Wichita Collegiate chess camp where Fernandes was a high school student. The summer camp forged a mentorship that continued even as Fernandes attended Creighton University while he and Fin continued their lessons via Skype. “Finley has always been my favorite student,” Fernandes says. “His passion for chess is truly inspiring and excites all those around him, something that has stayed consistent throughout the many years we have worked together. I am confident he will have great success wherever life takes him, both on and off the chess board.”
Fin will be starting his senior year of high school at The Independent School, but plays chess as often as he can. Although his school does not currently have a chess team, Fin competes at scholastic tournaments, typically five or six tournaments a year, one of them a two-day tournament. These intense gaming arenas prepare Fin for
various levels of competition at the state chess tournament where people of all ages are welcome to compete. “I like playing just as much as winning,” Fin says. “Each game is unique and requires its own strategy.”
His introverted nature and advanced skill set lend themselves beautifully to his chess pursuits. In his free time, Fin also uses those nuanced skills to help his mother, a talented photographer who works in real estate. Fin and his sister Evie both use their digital savvy and editing skills to help create visually appealing displays for her clients.
Looking to the future, Fin hopes to attend Wichita State University or another local college or university. Regardless of what he chooses to study, he will continue to assist his mom and passionately pursue the game of chess.
Written by Julie Underwood Burton
Wichita’s Windwagon cannon will sound promptly at 9 a.m. on Saturday, September 28, signaling the chili competition is on, and it’s time once again to ignite the chili burners on the streets of downtown Wichita!
The Wichita Wagonmasters Downtown Chili Cookoff has been a Wichita tradition for over 30 years, with approximately 80 teams from Kansas and surrounding states competing for top honors. It is estimated that over 10,000 attendees will purchase their $5 chili tasting kits and be ready with spoons in hand to sample a wide variety of chili and salsa. The event starts at 9 a.m. and when the cannon sounds again at noon, the chili can be served and the tasting begins. Chili teams compete in eight different categories including Traditional Red Chili, Chili Verde, Chili for Charity, Chili for Restaurants, No Beans About It, Anything Goes and Salsa. Over $5,000 in prize money is awarded with the top prize set at $1,000. In addition to the culinary skill that goes into the chili, judges will also add points for booth design and overall spirit. All teams are also automatically entered in the Mike Moore’s People’s Choice Category, whose winner is determined by festival goers. One bean is included in each tasting kit and the booth who receives the most beans wins.
‘There’s no better party for five bucks in the city of Wichita!’ — Andy Smith, Wichita Wagonmaster
To spice things up, festival goers won’t want to miss the Pepper Eating Contest that starts at 2:45 p.m. The brave contestant who eats the highest volume of peppers humanly possible in a five-minute timespan will take home a $500 cash prize. Prizes and awards will be presented to the tastiest winners at 3 p.m. Other events include the Wichita Wagonmaster 50/50 raffle, live music by Jet City, bands, kids’ games, local beer and drink vendors, plus the Wagonmasters will be doing what they do best: grilling up hamburgers and hotdogs. This event wouldn’t be possible without the tremendous sponsors throughout Wichita who will have competitive booths and teams at the cookoff. This event is certainly not possible either without the hard
work of Wichita’s Wagonmasters. With a membership of over 100 men, the Wagonmasters volunteer annually at hundreds of local events and are famously known for showing up with their grills and cooking up whatever is needed to help make every event a success.
Since the Wagonmasters took over the chili cookoff in 2005, the event has grown tremendously in popularity and size, and is the primary funding arm for their Good Life Grants program. Good Life Grants was established in 2012 with the sole purpose of providing funds each year to local nonprofits in need. The Wichita Wagonmasters purpose is “to promote and sell the good life in Wichita.” Certainly more people can enjoy the good life in Wichita, thanks to these men and their investment in our community.
Come on out and join in the fun on Saturday, September 28!
Although the chili tasting starts at noon, come out early to enjoy all the activities, plus some booths will begin running out their tasty chili just after a few hours. And it may not be too late to enter your recipe and team! The entry form, deadline and rules, plus event and raffle information, is posted at wagonmasters.org.
Wichita Wagonmasters Downtown Chili Cookoff Saturday, September 28
500 E. Douglas (next to Naftzger Park) For more information go to wagonmasters.org
GRACEMED HOTCAKES FOR HOPECARE
Jimmie’s Diner
Photography by Dan Alcala |
Since 1974, the Kansas Shrine Bowl has showcased the top high school senior football players from across the state. But the Shrine Bowl is much more than a game: This select fraternity of all-stars has helped raise more than $3.8 million for Shriners Children’s Hospitals while playing for the kids! Selection of the teams took place by media voting and coach selections following the 2023 football season.
The 2024 Kansas Shrine Bowl took place on June 29 in Emporia, Kansas, presented by Mammoth. All net proceeds from the benefited Shriners Children’s, a health care system of 22 hospitals dedicated to improving the lives of children by providing pediatric specialty care, innovative research, and outstanding teaching programs for medical professionals. Children up to the age of 18 are eligible for care and receive all services in a family centered environment, regardless of the patients’ ability to pay.
The week of the Kansas Shrine Bowl includes a full schedule of additional events, including The Kansas Masonic All-State Marching Band Camp, The Kansas Shrine Bowl All-Star Cheer Camp, The AllStar Friday Night Showcase, a golf tournament, parade, alumni events and much more!
To show your support for the Kansas Shrine Bowl visit KansasShrineBowl.com/support.
Creating a room or area that feels restful & restorative can be simple. Whether that is one small, calm-feeling corner of a room, a peaceful bedroom, a bathroom oasis, or all of the above, you can achieve the goal of transforming your space to be more conducive to rest & relaxation
- Minimize clutter
- Include soft layers of fabrics on windows and furniture with pillows & throws
- Bring in some natural elements such as greenery
- Incorporate calming colors
- Enjoy relaxing smells with a candle or essential oils
- Play soothing sounds
- Adjust lighting with various ambient light sources
Taking time out to take care of yourself is important. It allows you to recharge so you can be at your best – healthy, energized, and empowered to keep going –so you can help & love those you care about.
Create space in your home where you can relax and practice self care, take some time to breath, and just be
Written by Dawn Tucker
This week, my creative friends, I find myself back at Dallas World Market. While market week for a designer can be exhausting, it is equally exciting. Most designers attend market up to four times a year so we can bring you the most current and latest trends, while educating ourselves with companies and representatives on quality pieces we want to bring home for you.
As fall approaches, we find ourselves spending more time outdoors and enjoying family, friends, bonfires and the smell of a brisk autumn evening. With that said, I must confess, as I walk through the halls of The Dallas Market Center, I love seeing all the trends of color and texture. Hello warm colors and arrivederci to those cold sterile colors.
You may have noticed that warm colors and wood tones are making their way back into our homes, I personally am excited that texture still faithfully remains as a companion to each of these. Two of my favorite textures are bamboo and rattan. I’m seeing these two remain specifically popular in fashion, furniture, fixtures and art.
Most of my clients find themselves loving the resurgence of bamboo and rattan, as they are a humble alternative to wood and add warmth to any space, whether it is inside or out. They offer peace and tranquility, while pairing well with most any natural color palette or textiles like linen, cotton or wool, creating an aesthetic you want to love and live in.
So I leave you with a few of my favorite pieces from market this year. These pieces have both of my favorite textures as well as one of my very favorite colors. I hope you love these as much as I do.
Creatively yours,
Dawn Tucker is a design consultant and owner of DTConsulting LLC in Wichita. Reach her at dawn@splurgemag.com.
Written by Alexis Evans
Kansas native Mervin Schrag with BV Power is ready to help you use the sun to fuel your electricity savings with a homebased solar electric system.
There are some people who have an immediately distinguishable quality of character and integrity, and Schrag is one of those people. After a five-minute conversation with Schrag, you know that he will deliver the highest quality solar energy system to your home or business. You’ll also feel confident in making the right choice: the system design, installation, performance and service is built around financial benefits and a design that will endure beyond the 25-year warranty.
Installing solar in your home or business has far-reaching positive benefits, explains Schrag. These solar systems take a major load off the power grid; an overloaded power grid is a major cause for black-outs during peak usage. As a bonus, solar is environmentally friendly as it harnesses clean power from the sun and eliminates inflationary costs on your electric bills. The system, designed especially for your home or business, is guaranteed to produce renewable, clean electricity for 25 years, and Schrag and his crew will help you predict and manage the costs of your electric energy bills over those next 25 years.
Adding a home-based renewable energy system to your home or place of business can significantly increase the value of your investment: There are several government assistance programs offering tax credits and grants as an incentive to install renewable energy systems. Schrag has the experience and professional contacts to design, provide and service your own environmentally friendly solar power system, which will give you confidence in the management of your energy cost over time.
Schrag, with 40 years of quality assurance management in his arsenal, is eager to speak with anyone who has an interest in adding solar energy to their home or business. Contact him for a complimentary fifteen-minute appointment in which you’ll have the opportunity to ask any questions. “If you feel comfortable in moving forward, I’m ready to get started,” says Schrag, “and if you decide not to take advantage of the opportunity we say thank you for being a new friend.”
Allow Schrag to educate you on all things solar; you’ll walk away feeling confident in him and in the future of your home’s energy.
Schedule a free 15-minute consultation. Call or text: 620.217.1123
Email: merv.bvpower@gmail.com
Web: bvpower.solar/partner/mervin-schrag
Written by Julie Hying
Originally inspired by Cherry Creek Art Festival in Denver, Colorado, Autumn & Art celebrates their 15th year of bringing a sensory sensation to east Wichita. This autumn on September 13 to 15, Bradley Fair Parkway will host over 90 talented artists to share their creations at a free event for those looking for an al fresco art experience. There are pieces in a variety of mediums available for purchase. This is all made possible by the sponsorship of Pella Products of Kansas whose generous support enables Autumn & Art to grace the fall here in Wichita. Some of those skilled specialty areas include mixed media, both 2D and 3D, drawing, painting and photography, as well as graphics and printmaking. Other tangible art pieces include glass, wood, fiber, sculpture and ceramics. Some past favorites also included handcrafted jewelry and detailed metalwork designs
This year’s artists hail from seventeen other states, including one Canadian artist as well as at least thirty local Kansas artists. To be a part of Autumn & Art, there is an application process for the juried art event where individuals (around 130 this season) may submit their work for consideration; a panel of judges then select quality art and artisans to participate in the threeday event.
As a former participant of Autumn & Art in both 2012 and 2013, professional photographer and Andover High School photojournalism teacher Cary Conover says: “I had recently relocated back to Wichita (my hometown), and those two years at Autumn and Art were important in determining what I had to say as an artist working in photography, as opposed to my work up until that point, which had all been more photojournalistic …. I tried to infuse my love of social commentary into the work I was showing, and my last year at Autumn & Art I received an Audience Award, a big ribbon and a check for several hundred dollars.”
This is a full sensory experience — aside from the impressive art displays, Autumn & Art’s event stage will feature outstanding musicians providing instrumental entertainment. To further enjoyment, spirits and other refreshments will be available for purchase along the parkway.
There will also be specialized learning and creation opportunities for children. Both Saturday and Sunday, Mark Arts and City Arts will host designated areas for kids to spend time and create their own masterpieces to take home.
Along Wilson Estates Parkway on Friday evening, Autumn & Art will host its Patron Party from 6 to 9 p.m., a fundraising event to support future festivals. For a donation fee of $125, art patrons may partake in delicacies and cocktails prepared by local favorites, Newport Grill and Il Vicino Wood Oven Pizza. Tickets for the Patron Party can be purchased by phone at 316.267.2817 or online at autumnandart.com.
Autumn & Art
13–15
Written by Caroline Jones
“You’ve got a hold of one weird cowboy here!” said Eagle Scout and New Jersey native Dave Hewitt about himself.
Though Hewitt said that he stayed in Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts because “my mother made me do it,” Scouting quickly became a crucial part of his life. “I enjoyed Scouts because it was all that I had,” he said. Looking back, he saw his time in Scouts as a unique opportunity to try new things. “If you have no particular interests, when you get into Scouts, you might find that you do have interests. You’re building model airplanes, not because you like airplanes but because you like models. Perhaps you could be a silversmith or another job where you’re working with your hands.”
Hewitt’s wife, Sharon, said that Dave was so invested in Scouting as a teenager that he “sold soap and silverware door-to-door for two years to earn the money to attend the 1953 Boy Scout Jamboree at Irvine Ranch in California.”
These skills of ingenuity and resourcefulness only grew as he became an Eagle Scout, and he went on to pursue wide-ranging interests in his career and personal life. Hewitt worked with cannon artillery in the Howitzer battalion of the United States Army before becoming a straight commission sales and service rep in the automotive and motorcycle industry, and he later organized,
sponsored and ran a camp through McPherson College that taught valuable skills to teenagers in foster care.
Of the 12 points of the Scout Law, Hewitt embodies helpfulness, kindness and cheerfulness, and he aims to live his life by Luke 12:48, which reads, “To whom much is given, of him much is required.”
“We’ve worked hard, but we’ve also been blessed. If you’ve been blessed, then pay it forward,” he said.
In closing, he encouraged young people to find their passions through the unique experience of Scouts. “Broaden your horizons. You may find something that you love but never thought about, and there’s nowhere else where you can do this. There’s no program like Scouting.”
Quivira Council and Paul Attwater, Financial Advisor at Morgan Stanley are proud to bring you Eagle Scouts in Action, a monthly showcase of community leaders who are banding together to make a difference in our community! If you are interested in joining Scouting or have an Eagle Scout in Action you think deserves honoring, call us at 316.264.3386.
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!
