Issuu

NOTES FROM THE

publisher & sstaff p WHAT ARE YOU MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO THIS SUMMER?

Jody Klein

Shirley Davis

PUBLISHER AND PRESIDENT

BOOKKEEPER

14 YEARS WITH SPLURGE!

8 YEARS WITH SPLURGE!

We are going on our first family

Our family reunion, vacation,

beach vacation with Renley and

spending time with friends and my

ALL five of our kids and spouses!

grandchildren. Most importantly

It has been 15 years! #11ismorefun

continue in spiritual activities.

Lauren Boughfman

Karen Long

WRITER

WRITER AND COPY EDITOR

1 YEAR WITH SPLURGE!

12 YEARS WITH SPLURGE!

I am really looking forward to

My son’s home from college, and

being out of school and getting to

we’re going to log some serious

spend more time with family and

quality time traveling and playing

friends!

Animal Crossing!

12828 E. 13th N.,Wichita, KS 67230 316.267.3678 PUBLISHING COMPANY

Inspired Koncepts, Inc.

OWNERS

Dr. Terry and Jody Klein

KaCey Green, Mattie Warner

Dr. Dennis and Ann Ross

splurgewichita@gmail.com

GRAPHIC DESIGN

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Steve Ruud CONTRIBUTING WRITERS PUBLISHER AND PRESIDENT

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Kelsey Ralston - kelsey@splurgemag.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Kim Azaria — kim@splurgemag.com

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GUEST COLUMNISTS

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EDITORIAL PHOTOGRAPHY FASHION PHOTOGRAPHY LOCAL FACES PHOTOGRAPHY

Michael Carroll Jr. Darrin Hackney Photography Michael Carroll Jr.

© 2021 SPLURGE! is published by Inspired Koncepts, Inc. This publication may not be reproduced or transmitted in any means, in whole or in part, without the express prior written permission of the publisher. All images produced by Inspired Koncepts, Inc. are the exclusive property of Inspired Koncepts, Inc. Every effort was made to ensure accuracy of the information in this publication as of press time. The publisher assumes no responsibility to any part for the content of any advertisement in this publication, including any errors and omissions there in. Inspired Koncepts, Inc. makes no endorsement, representation or warranty regarding any goods or services advertised or listed in this publication. Listings and advertisements are provided by the subject companies, Inspired Koncepts, Inc. shall not be responsible or liable for any inaccuracy, omission or infringement of any third party’s rights therein, or for personal injury or any other damage or injury whatsoever. By placing an order for an advertisement, the advertiser agrees to indemnify the publisher against any claims relating to the advertisement.

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TABLE OF

CONTENTS SPLURGE! MAGAZINE

Vol. 16, Issue 6 — June 2021

FEATURES 6

Former MLB athlete Nate

Day Tripper: New Frontiers In Napping

Robertson followed in

Sleep cycles, siesta length,

his dad’s footsteps as a

time of day — modern

baseball coach. Today

research is showing us how

he shares the love of

to up our napping game

the game with players at

and remain energized

Maize High School — and

throughout the entire day.

From The Field To Life Lessons

A Son Steps Up When TEC Systems Group moved into a freshly renovated Old Town warehouse last month, owner Eric Eakins was fulfilling a promise he made to his father six years earlier.

25 Years Of Mort’s This month the legendary Mort’s Cigar and Martini Bar celebrates its 25th anniversary with live music and a photo booth, plus food, fun and festivities. And of course drinks and popcorn.

his own three children.

Talking Cabinets, Countertops And More! From white Shaker cabinets to ebony honed granite to large-format tiles, Kitchen Tune-Up owner Rachel Phillips sets the trend table on our favorite room of the house!

On The Cover: NATE ROBERTSON

LOCATION: TANGANYIKA WILDLIFE PARK PHOTOGRAPHY: DARRIN HACKNEY

HIGHLIGHTS

52 — NAPOLI ITALIAN EATERY 70 — FLUTTERBYE RANCH 74 — SEVERY’S HARVEST HOUSE FOOD PANTRY

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live

WRITTEN BY JULIE HYING

A Father’s Legacy FEATURING NATE ROBERTSON In our ever-changing and chaotic world, the

As Wyatt has grown, he and his father share

foundations we build must be strong and our

in their love of the game. Wyatt, now thirteen,

choices filled with conviction and commitment.

attends school and pitches and plays outfield

Some of the lessons we learn seem easy and

for the ICT Rangers. A natural leader on and off

effortless. Others may be more difficult and

the field, he loves to have his dad come to his

learned over time. All of these are valuable and

games and practices, as well as run through

contribute to who we are and the roles we play

aspects of the game with him. Nate shares that,

in the lives of others. Among these leaders,

“Those are some priceless moments, ones to

mentors and role models are outstanding men

really breathe in and enjoy because you never

who embrace the crucial role of fatherhood.

get them back.”

Kansas native and former MLB athlete Nate

Nate’s daughter, Shea, threw the family a curve

Robertson understands this role as he shares his

ball when she was born with Down syndrome.

outgoing and candid nature, positive attitude,

Now seven, she is the light of their lives. Nate

his integrity and character with his own three

describes her as someone who doesn’t know

children as well as the young men on Maize’s

a stranger, is warm and kind to everyone and

high school baseball team where he serves as

completely unjaded: “Shea sees the world and

a pitching coach. He has committed his time

life as everyone should see it, full of fun and

and energy, contributing to our incredible city.

love.” She’s a sports lover with an amazing

A longtime owner of the Wichita Wingnuts, he

perspective about what’s important, taking

enjoyed supporting that team and helping to

time each day to enjoy being with people and

grow their program. Additionally, Nate has been

playing outdoors.

a part of various local fundraisers including Wesley Children’s Hospital’s annual charity

One more surprise, the pregnancy of their

event, Wine Women & Shoes.

daughter Brielle, brought joy to Nate and Kristin. She is almost three but runs the

Nate’s own baseball career began in Miami and

Robertson family like a boss. A sassy spitfire

soon after, in 2003, Nate was traded to the MLB

full of spirit and enthusiasm, she’s also a sports

team in Detroit where he pitched for the Tigers

lover and shines on the soccer field. Although

for the next seven years. Being part of a Major

independent and strong, Brielle admires and

League Baseball team means a life of travel

looks up to Shea and Wyatt.

and flexibility. So as Nate and his wife Kristin

had their son Wyatt in 2008, his focus was

Nate’s love of baseball may have come from

shared between his professional commitment

the countless hours he spent with his own

to his team and his love for his family.

father and brothers on and off the field. His

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From the Field to Life Lessons dad coached many of the teams he and his brothers played on, and baseball was often a topic of conversation. A military man who spent many years in the Army Reserves, he instilled a strong sense of character, commitment and integrity in his sons — lessons Nate now shares with his own children. “These aspects are so important in life, the lessons we learn and those we take away and share with others.” Nate knows his father has had a significant impact upon his life, as well as many other young men he coached throughout the years. He recalls many of his dad’s birthday parties where former players would stop by to reminisce and help him celebrate. Those lessons Nate learned from his dad have influenced him and left an indelible imprint on his life as a player, as a father and now as a coach. Nate values time spent as a pitching coach at his alma mater, Maize High School. Those young pitchers are gaining knowledge and expertise from someone who has dedicated years of his life to the game of baseball. “I hope to help them develop their skills and provide leadership, but also help them become the best young men they can be.” Nate and others passionate about baseball can attest to the fact that the dirt diamond is a place where valuable life lessons can be learned and shared.

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live

Day Tripper

WRITTEN BY KAREN LONG

NEW FRONTIERS IN NAPPING What if there was a free exercise you could

longer they napped, the better they were doing

“While snoozing is prohibited at Ikea stores

perform in just 20 minutes per day that would

in school.”

elsewhere, the Swedish retailer has long

increase alertness and motor skills, clear your

permitted Chinese customers to doze off,

mind and improve memory, and even enhance

Not only that, the napping kids showed

rather than alienate shoppers accustomed to

creativity and perception? Science is proving

similar positive results for grit — resilience

sleeping in public.”

that — far from being the exclusive domain of

and toughness in confronting daily obstacles

toddlers and slackers — napping can power

— and a decrease in negative traits such as

acuity and productivity throughout the day for

anxiety, depression and aggression.

people of all ages and walks of life.

A Quick 20 Winks In our own culture, where day sleeping is about

In her book, Dr. Mednick explained that

as socially acceptable as day drinking, maybe

During the pandemic, many work-from-home

catching a few midday z’s is hardwired into

some scientific tips and tricks will sway the

adults discovered what Sara Mednick, Ph.D.,

our DNA, similar to animals. Both modern

nay-sayers. Dr. Mednick explained that the

revealed in her book “Take a Nap! Change

scientific experiments and historical patterns

timing and length of a nap determines how

your life.”

throughout various societies show that, left

refreshed you’ll feel afterwards — and how

to our own devices, humans gravitate to

much it will affect your nighttime sleep. The

“We proved … that certain kinds of naps can

“biphasic” slumber, consisting of six or seven

interplay between sleep cycles and our body’s

produce improvements previously observed

hours of long sleep followed by a shorter sleep

circadian rhythms will determine if we wake up

only after a full night of sleep.”

span in the middle of the day.

feeling bright-eyed and bushy tailed or meaner than a junkyard dog.

Dr. Mednick, a Harvard-trained research scientist

To this day China and Japan enjoy a culture

who describes herself as “an in-veterate napper,”

of catnaps scheduled into the daily routines

Perhaps the proverbial 40 winks should

is a leader in the field. After collaborating on

of all ages, including school children, college

actually be 20 winks. The first two stages of

a 2019 napping study involving 3,000 school

students and corporate desk jockeys. “The New

sleep are light, lasting about 20 minutes, but

children in grades 4–6, she explained the results

York Times” even published an article featuring

together they still increase alertness, motor

on a recent podcast, “The Snooze Button.”

photos of Chinese consumers napping at Ikea

skills and coordination. Any longer nap takes

When it came to academic performance, such

— moms, dads, kids and grandparents, all

you into a “slow-wave” brain architecture, a

as studying for a test, “There was really strong

putting sofas, chairs and beds through a test

deep sleep that is harder to wake up from.

evidence that the more the kids were napping,

drive right in the showroom.

the more frequently they napped, and the

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ALL ABOUT YOU. MAKE 2021 YOUR BEST YEAR.

The time of day you doze off is important for the

imagery during this brief twilight as we drift off

impact on your nighttime sleep. A morning nap

to sleep, also known as the hypnagogic nap.

has been shown to have no effect on the length of nightly sleep — but a nap in late afternoon

One famous story describes how Thomas

or evening could make it challenging to fall

Edison practiced better engineering through

asleep later. “When we put a nap in the middle

napping. He would drift off in a chair while

of the day, people were able to maintain their

holding a fistful of ball bearings. Upon entering

best performance — and in some cases even

full unconsciousness at Stage 2 sleep, Edison’s

get better than their best performance,” said

hand would relax, releasing the ball bearings

Dr. Mednick on the podcast.

with a clatter into a metal bucket below and waking him, hopefully with new insights.

A nap of 90 minutes — about the length of a movie — will give you time to soak up one

In her book, Medick described how German

complete sleep cycle with all the restorative

chemist Friedrich August Kekulé discovered

benefits of stress relief, tissue restoration, fat

the benzene ring. While pondering a chain of

metabolization, learning consolidation and more!

atoms, he dozed off in front of his fireplace and saw the chains undulating as winding

Bottom line: a 90-minute nap during morning

snakes. When one snake curved around and

or midday, or a 20-minute nap any time of day

seized its own tail to form a ring, Kekulé woke

is the sweet spot to avoid waking up groggy in

up instantly with a eureka moment: He was

the middle of your deepest sleep.

dealing not with a chain, but a ring.

The Ball Bearing Nap

“Powering through is not necessarily going to have you performing at your best at the end of

Stage 1 of sleep, while lasting only two to five

the day,” Dr. Mednick said on the podcast. “But

minutes, has garnered a legendary following

if you took, say, a 15-minute nap, you could

among artists, scientists and mystics seeking

really have your best performance lasting

to connect with the dream-like subconscious

throughout the whole day.”

SOURCES “Take a Nap! Change your life.” Sara Mednick, Ph.D. “The Snooze Button” Podcast, The Art of The Nap with Dr. Sara Mednick “Shh. It’s Naptime at Ikea in China.” The New York Times “To Increase Creativity Thomas Edison Toggled The State Between Awake And Asleep,” Will Burns, Unleash Creativity blog

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What Should I Do if I Am Involved in an Auto Accident? Remember to stay calm, accidents happen. First, check yourself for injuries. Call 911 or ask someone else to do so. If you’re not too hurt to move, check on the other passengers. If your car is safe to drive and is causing a hazard where it is, pull it to the side of the road and turn on your hazards. Next, take a look at the damage to both vehicles. Remember to stay out of traffic, giving other vehicles plenty of room to get by. Next, exchange information with the other driver. You’ll want to get as much information as you can, such as: their contact and insurance information, license plate number, photos of the scene and vehicles, witness contact information, name and badge number of all responding officers, and any personal notes. I always recommend calling 911 even if no one is hurt. While at the scene, it is important that you never admit responsibility for the accident. Your insurance company adjuster will determine who is at fault. There are too many unknown factors when accidents occur and while we want to be fair to all parties, an investigation is normally required to determine fault. If there is no question that the other party is at fault, I recommend calling their insurance company to file a claim and demand that they accept responsibility, including providing a rental car. By filing a claim under your insurance, you are required to pay the deductible (until reimbursed) and the claim will show under your personal CLUE report. An insurance agent can help guide you through this process and again, always remain calm and make sure everyone is okay. Chock and Tubbs can be reached at 316.641.7906 or chock@chapks.com. Chock Chapple is owner and president at

MONEY MATTERS

Insurance Services Group.

Here Are a Few Reasons to Refinance Now 1. Lower your monthly payment by refinancing to a lower rate or by extending your loan. 2. Convert an adjustable-rate mortgage to a fixed-rate mortgage and lock in a guaranteed rate that will never increase. 3. Get cash with a cash-out refinance that lets you access the equity you’ve built in your home. 4. Trade in a mortgage that no longer works for you for a new adjustable-rate or fixed-rate home loan that fits your life today. 5. Save money on interest over the long term by refinancing to a shorter term loan—you’ll pay off your mortgage much faster. 6. Consolidate your debt by using the money you’ll save to pay down tuition or high-interest credit cards. Let’s review your specific situation and discover if this is a good time for you to review your loan. Visit Home Bank & Trust Company at homebank-trust.com to discuss your financial goals and mortgage options. Member FDIC, Equal Housing Lender. Brian Sandberg, NMLS #468586; Mai Schendel, NMLS #468583; Jeff Rathbun, NMLS #543215; Home Bank & Trust, NMLS #416329 Some restrictions may apply. All borrowers are subject to credit approval. Programs subject to change without notice. The information provided is for dissemination to and for the use of real estate and financial business entities only, and is not an advertisement for the extension of credit to consumers.

The Truest Sense of Wealth There was a time when I thought that having a million dollars, or at least a few hundred thousand, would have made me rich and wealthy. What I’ve learned since then is that having money and having a luxurious lifestyle can make you rich, but it doesn't necessarily make you wealthy. Instead, wealth is a perspective. An important perspective we share at Leading Edge Financial Planning is that time is the most limited resource we have. Having the flexibility and freedom to wake up every day and do what you want to do for as long as you'd like to do it? That is the best measure of wealth, believe it or not. Riches and wealth might seem like the same thing, but we’ve discovered that being rich means focusing on collecting money as an achievement in itself, while being wealthy means focusing on how you can use money as a tool to achieve fulfillment in your life. If you’d like to discuss your own financial perspective as it applies to your unique situation, scan this QR code to schedule a free introductory meeting. Leading Edge Financial Planning, LLC, is a Registered Investment Advisory firm and is registered with the states of Kansas and Colorado. Contact Michael Proctor, CCO, with any questions at 316.768.7526 or mike@leadingedgepf.com. 12

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faces

EAGLES IN ACTION RECEPTION Wichita Country Club

Carl Coonrod, Paul Attwater and Michael Redondo

Brian Nastase with Carolyn and Jim Grier

Michael Redondo, Bob Hughes and Dr. John Lewis

Dr. John Lewis and Al Higdon

Judy Higdon, Bob Hughes and Al Higdon

Warner Harrison and John Davis

See More at Facebook.com/SplurgeICT

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experts

WRITTEN BY BRUCE FERRIS, MD, AMY SPROLE, MD, AND NATALIYA BISKUP, MD

Men Turn to CoolSculpting to Get Rid of Stubborn Belly Fat REAL PLASTIC SURGEONS. REAL RESULTS. AMY SPROLE, MD, BRUCE FERRIS, MD AND NATALIYA BISKUP, MD Women aren’t the only ones who want to get rid of stubborn fat. With CoolSculpting Elite, men can say goodbye to love handles and fat on their abdomen and back — and under their chin, too. Today, more men are turning to CoolSculpting to freeze away stubborn fat with the No. 1 non-surgical, fat-reduction treatment.

Our CoolSculpting Elite patient, Nate, explains he is so much more comfortable with his body. Tell us about your journey to the CoolSculpting Elite treatment. Nate: I have always been active and I played soccer in college. As I got older, I tried to stay in shape running and lifting weights. Yet, no matter

What is CoolSculpting Elite? It’s a non-invasive body contouring treatment that permanently freezes fat with little to no downtime and no surgery. With the new advanced Elite technology only available in Wichita at PSC Aesthetics, we freeze two times the stubborn fat with dual applicators. We can treat two areas in the same time it used to take to treat one.

what I tried, I had areas of fat I couldn’t get rid of. I hated looking in the mirror and seeing love handles no matter what I did. So, I decided to try a series of CoolSculpting Elite treatments. Tell us about the procedure. Nate: The actual treatments were easy, quick and completely pain-free.

CoolSculpting Elite eliminates up to 20 to 25 percent of treated fat cells for good. Once your treated fat cells are frozen, your body naturally eliminates these dead fat cells. Your fat melts away over several months.

How did you feel after the treatment? Nate: I felt completely fine after the treatment. I didn’t run for two days, but after that I was back to my regular workouts.

What areas can I treat with CoolSculpting Elite? CoolSculpting is FDA-cleared to treat the regions under the chin and jawline areas, abdomen and flanks, back fat, thighs, the banana roll underneath the buttocks, the upper arm, and bra fat.

When did you notice your results? Nate: I noticed them about a week or two after the treatments. I was amazed at how fast they were working. I lost three inches in my waist size, and I went from a 36-inch waist to a 33-inch waist!

We can pinpoint your exact trouble spots and customize your treatment plan to your body contouring goals. Not only will your clothes fit and look better, but you’ll feel better, too.

Are you doing anything different now? Nate: I am still working out and maintaining my weight. I concentrate on cardio and strength.

How long do results last? Once your treated fat cells are gone, they’re gone for good. CoolSculpting is not a weight loss treatment, though. It reduces fat. Your remaining fat cells function as normal and can get bigger or smaller depending on your weight loss or weight gain.

Am I a candidate? If you’re ready to learn how CoolSculpting Elite can target your trouble spots, your first step is a consultation at our office. We’ll work together to develop a plan tailored to your goals.

BEFORE

REAL PATIENTS. REAL RESULTS.

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

Are you happy with your results? Nate: I am so happy and so much more comfortable. CoolSculpting has made such a difference. You work so hard to improve yourself, and my CoolSculpting results give me the motivation to reach my goals every day. Do you have advice for people considering CoolSculpting Elite? Nate: Just go for it. It’s so easy, simple and comfortable. If you’re active, and you’ve tried to get rid of stubborn fat, CoolSculpting is a great solution.

BEFORE BEFORE

AFTER AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

You deserve expert guidance and exceptional results. Plastic surgery involves many choices. The most important is selecting a surgeon you can trust. Expect exceptional results when you have your procedures performed by plastic surgeons who are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and who are members of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons like Dr. Ferris, Dr. Sprole and Dr. Biskup. These specially trained doctors have at least six years of surgical training and experience, with a minimum of three years of plastic surgery. 18

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live

WRITTEN BY KAREN LONG | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL CARROLL JR.

AS GOOD AS HIS WORD It was during a road trip in 2015 that Eric Eakins

“The first thing my dad asked me to do was to

made his dad a promise. Father and son had been

take care of the people at TEC, because he just

logging multiple hours together on I-35 as Eric

really cared for them and didn’t want to see

drove his father, Rolland, back and forth to Dallas

anyone lose their jobs. The second thing was,

to receive treatments for pulmonary fibrosis, a

the company was meant to be bigger and more

life-threatening lung disease. During the long

expansive than what it had become.”

miles, a frequent topic of conversation was TEC Systems Group, the business that Rolland

Eric was going from a “creative and free-flowing”

had started in 1984, specializing in industrial

position as an architect to leading a team

automation and process control solutions.

of engineers. Over time he was able to draw on previous experience as a small business

On one of those drives, Eric promised his dad, “I’ll

owner and manager, and he laid out a vision

give you two years of my life, and I’ll come over

for growing and modernizing the company. He

and run TEC. You just focus on getting healthy.”

rebranded TEC with a new logo and website and became more aggressive with recruiting,

Eric’s two-year plan turned into a much larger

forming a partnership with the WSU engineering

commitment later in the year. Rolland took an

department. And revenues saw a steady upward

abrupt turn for the worse after a seemingly

trend, with just a single dip in 2018.

successful lung transplant. Infection and surgical complications claimed his life in

The Father of Invention

February of 2016, and Eric found himself solely responsible for his father’s business.

“We increased revenue dramatically through the pandemic.” Eric says. He attributes that to

“I went from, ‘I’m parking myself here for two

another nugget of wisdom learned from his dad,

years until Dad gets healthy,’ to ‘Now I own it.’ ”

decades earlier: “In every downturn there’s an

Taking Over TEC

opportunity, you just have to look for it.” So Eric went mining for opportunities — and

At the time Eric was in the middle of a flourishing

found them. When a competitor laid off staff,

career as an architect with GLMV Architecture. He

Eric applied for a PPP loan and landed some

had designed prominent buildings in the region,

stellar hires. When industrial plants in the

such as Goddard Middle School, Saint Catherine

Midwest shut down operations due to virus

of Siena Catholic Church, and the Wichita

outbreaks, TEC salespeople were waiting with

Advanced Learning Library. When Eric left that

automation solutions.

position to become president and CEO of TEC, he brought two pieces of wisdom from his father.

“We had the capacity to do more work and we started doing more work,” Eric says.

A SON STEPS UP Wall-to-Wall TEC

primary space and an industrial mezzanine housing the tech lab.

One of the main aspects of the business that Eric wanted to modernize was the TEC office space.

TEC moved into its new home last month, along

He purchased a warehouse at 127 S. Washington

with a company owned by Eric’s wife, Joy Eakins.

St. in Old Town, situated on property with a

Cornerstone Data “takes businesses from data

long history going back to 1906. It had been

to decisions with advanced analytical skills.”

through several lives as a lumberyard, auto

This partnership allows TEC to offer beginning-

repair shop and a Shriners’ storage facility. Eric

to-end industrial data solutions.

turned the windowless brick shell into a lightfilled space complete with accent walls, eye-

Expanding the Vision

catching angles and open ductwork running under a soaring wooden barrel-vault ceiling.

As he grew the number of employees by over 25 percent, Eric’s vision has evolved into a larger

Expressing what TEC does as a business was

dream for the Wichita community and drawing

high on Eric’s list as he designed the space:

workers to the area. “I wanted to build something

“We work in industrial environments where you

that would energize our employees, excite them,

see the workings of the plants. I just wanted to

be downtown, be around all the restaurants —

inspire our guys with the types of spaces where

and also help us attract young talent, which has

they install our control systems,” Eric says.

actually played out this last weekend.”

Preserving historic details and character was

His most recent hire, an engineer from Seattle,

also key. The main hallway is set on an angle and

just informed Eric that the new building “sealed

studded with rustic I-beams bearing weathered

the deal” in the decision-making process for

paint. The open employee lounge is framed by

him and his wife.

the original 1906 Wichita Lumber Company brick building on one side, which Eric preserved, and

“You can get people to move here,” Eric says,

an expansive glass garage door on the other.

“you just have to give them the right opportunity and the right kind of work environment.”

The door can be rolled open during balmy weather to bring in fresh air and sun —

While he doesn’t rule out a return to his prior

also revealing a ‘40s-era, wall-painted sign

career at some point, Eric says, “I don’t mind

advertising “Auto Repair: All Kind.” Garage

doing this — in fact I feel called to do this,

doors on the other side of the building were

and I feel like I made Dad a promise and I’m

transformed into windows overlooking the

fulfilling a promise.”

live

WRITTEN BY JULIE HYING

Vein Care:

Assessment and Improvement WITH DR. STEPHANIE OBERHELMAN, KANSAS SURGICAL ARTS

Kansas Surgical Arts cares for patients using

As a result, varicose veins can make the legs

a variety of treatments including plastic and

feel heavy, fatigued or full.

cosmetic surgery, weight loss, skin care, and are best known for their excellent vein care.

Venous insufficiency is a condition that causes

People from Wichita and all over Kansas

increased pressure throughout the legs. It is

seek vein care because of pain or discomfort.

often mistaken for aging. But if left untreated,

Others’ primary concerns may be spider or

it can lead to bleeding, changes in skin color

varicose veins.

and even ulcers. Common complaints of this include: a sensation of swelling, pain in the

For the last 13 years, Dr. Oberhelman and her

legs, heavy legs and skin discoloration. can

vein disease. She has treated over 4,000 legs

Conservative

and utilizes a technique called “vein mapping”

compression socks or stockings fit snugly

to evaluate and assess the patient’s veins.

around the legs and apply pressure to the leg

Ultrasound technology creates images of

and ankle. They offer support and move blood

the veins in the legs so that specific issues

upward to help keep blood from pooling in

can be diagnosed, then a treatment plan is

the legs. When calf and thigh muscles are

developed and vein problems are treated.

exercised, it helps the blood flow upward.

helpful,

That, along with elevation, allows gravity to One in four people suffer from vein disease,

help blood flow back to the heart.

called venous insufficiency, a condition that occurs when the vein wall or the valve in

Minimally invasive treatments are offered

the leg are not working effectively. Of those

people who have vein disease, very few are

Closure, laser therapy and microphlebectomy

diagnosed and even fewer — only about

are presented to patients as options and

1 percent — are treated. Kansas Surgical

thoroughly explained to provide the best care

Arts provides a variety of therapies and

per individual.

KSA.

Radiofrequency

ablation,

VNUS

treatments for those in need. All of these treatment solutions that Kansas All different vein disorders can be trouble-

Surgical Arts offer allow a person to resume

some. Spider veins (small clusters of veins)

his or her normal activities within 24 hours.

can form with hormonal changes, during

Some short-term bruising, discoloration or

pregnancy; they may be hereditary or form

swelling may occur but quickly subside. Dr.

due to injury.

Oberhelman’s goal is to improve her patients’ overall health and quality of life.

Varicose veins form when the vein valves fail

Kansas Surgical Arts 3460 N. Ridge Rd. #160 Wichita, KS 67205

staff have evaluated and treated patients for therapies

WHERE TO FIND THEM

to function properly. Blood flows the wrong

For questions about vein treatments or

direction causing blood to pool in the veins.

screening dates, please call 316.573.4850.

SPLURGE! MAGAZINE // splurgemag.com

316.573.4850 www.kansassurgicalarts.com

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WRITTEN BY AMY PALSER

Wichita Doc: RSV’s Risk To Seniors Largely Ignored POLING HOPES VACCINE WILL DR ASTICALLY REDUCE HOSPITALIZATIONS, DEATHS FROM VIRUS Did you know RSV kills more seniors each year

headache and a cough that lasts for one to

than influenza? Most people don’t realize the

two weeks, and it typically affects the smaller

threat respiratory syncytial virus infection —

airways of the lungs as does Covid.

a type of pneumonia — is to the health and longevity of the nation’s 65-and-up population.

RSV doesn’t usually pose a problem in younger and healthy individuals. But age can worsen the

“RSV is probably the single greatest killer of

effects and cause complications. The CDC says

elderly people of all the pneumonias,” said

the infection can sometimes lead to serious

certified trial investigator Dr. Terry Poling

conditions like pneumonia and congestive

of Wichita, vice president of Alliance for

heart failure, requiring hospitalization and

Multispecialty Research (formerly Heartland

even resulting in death. RSV can also be worse

Research Associates). “It’s gonna take us years

for those who have a history of asthma, COPD,

to get that across to people.” The Centers for

emphysema, chronic lung conditions, heart

Disease Control and Prevention estimates that

issues and other vascular diseases.

each year more than 177,000 older adults are hospitalized and 14,000 of them die in the

Poling said the vaccine study is in the third

United States due to RSV infection.

and final stage of testing. In Phase 1, the vaccine was administered to volunteers who

Poling said that because there’s no treatment

were monitored for one to two weeks in a

for RSV, it’s been largely ignored by the

hospital setting. Phase 2 involved establishing

medical community. But he’s hopeful that an

the most effective dosage and included tens

RSV vaccine could curb hospitalizations and

of thousands of people, Poling said. In the

deaths from the virus in the older population.

current stage, Phase 3, the trial vaccine will be administered to between 50,000 and 100,000

AMR is taking part in a large-scale study on the

people nationwide. “We need huge numbers

efficacy of a trial RSV vaccine and is looking

in Phase 3, and we’re looking for a large cross

for participants aged 60 and older. Candidates

section of the population,” he said.

will be given either the trial RSV vaccine or a placebo and monitored for over a year.

Poling stressed that participants can’t get RSV from the vaccine. Much like the Covid vaccine,

RSV is common in all ages and causes mild,

this one uses a part of the peptide that

cold-like symptoms. According to the Centers

stimulates the antibody to protect against RSV.

for Disease Control and Prevention, most

The vaccine was shown in Phases 1 and 2 to

people recover in a week or two, but RSV can

be effective and had no visible side effects, he

be serious, especially for infants and older

said. The study is a rather large one for AMR,

adults. Symptoms appear about five days after

involving 600 to 800 candidates between the

exposure. It causes a runny rose, sore throat,

Wichita area’s four AMR sites.

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The Wichita-area AMR locations are looking for healthy candidates age 60 and older to take part in the RSV vaccine trial. The trial begins June 1. Candidates taking part in the study will be compensated. If you think you’re a good candidate, you can apply for the study in one of the following ways: 1. Apply online at heartlandresearch.com/ studies/rsv-vaccine 2. Call the AMR location closest to you: AMR Wichita East, 316.689.6652 AMR Wichita West, 316.462.0420 AMR El Dorado, 316.600.5127 AMR Newton, 316.283.0828

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CINCO DE MAYO FIESTA Rivercross Hospice

Alan Nelson and Kim Azaria

Rivercross Hospice

Aaron Starks and Christina Mattioli

Andrea Jones, Katherine Ambrose, Naiya Lilly, Willie Wactor, Ashley Benitez, Samantha Simons, Chandra Bilhimer and Kelsey Banwart

Cinco De Mayo event sponsors

Love My Nurse Home Health Care — Brian Miller, Seth and Dede Armstrong, Chris Higgins, Samantha Landrum and Mary Gonzalez

Ciara Kendall, Roxan Ryan, Mark Rowe and Mary Gonzalez

Lena Spencer, Caden Konecay, Kathy Udelhofen and Forrest Schumaker

Suzan Hickey, Brianna Zerger and Mark Shulte

LaShonda Garnes, Seneca Porter and Maureen Downing

Rick Rekoske, Denis Cleary, Chelsea French, Sonya Elliott, Christina Ellis and Michelle Lowder

Angie King and Eric Rivero

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WRITTEN BY AMY PALSER

Q&A

MAKE THE NEWBORN TIME THE BEST TIME

With Certified Postpartum Doula, Newborn Care Specialist and Infant Sleep Consultant

Sara Skiles, CEO of Wichita Baby Company

Q. Tell us about Wichita Baby Company

sleep is an absolute game changer that brings

NICU and pediatric nurses, and board-certified

A. We offer daytime postpartum support,

your life as a parent to the next level.

lactation consultants — all with current certificates, licenses, insurance, background

overnight infant care, lactation support and infant sleep consulting. We’re here to help

Q. What is the response from your

checks and infant CPR. We are extremely proud

you reach your goal, whether it’s to have

postpartum clients?

of our well-vetted, professional, friendly and

professional hands-on guidance for your

A. They wished they had known about us

low-turnover team!

baby’s daily feeding, sleeping and care; or

sooner! One of the most satisfying parts of

to avoid sleep deprivation by having help at

the job is watching them go from exhausted,

Q. How does purchasing your service work?

night; or to “mother the mother” by ensuring

weepy, dark circles under their eyes, to

A. Parents purchase a package of hours from

you get to eat, nap, shower and talk to us about

confident, blooming, happy and ready to go

us — typically between 100 and 500 hours —

whatever is on your mind.

back to work fully healed and rested.

and then “spend” those hours as needed on

Q. When did you realize the need for

Q. What’s your biggest piece of advice for

Depending on how many consecutive night shifts

these services?

new moms?

are requested, between one and three of our

A. When I first began practicing as a doula

A. Be willing to accept help. We were never

staff may be assigned. The daytime shifts are a

and newborn care specialist, there weren’t

meant to do this alone! Our ancestors had

minimum of 4 hours per day, while the overnight

really any professional services like this in the

the “village” of women to step in and take

shifts are from 9 p.m. to 7 a.m. We provide care for

Wichita area. People think this is something

care of you during the whole process of

babies from birth to 6 months old.

that only exists in places like New York or

pregnancy, labor and postpartum recovery.

L.A. Many new parents here are anxious and

We are standing in that gap for the parents of

Q. Is overnight care breastfeeding friendly?

overwhelmed, with limited family support and

Wichita. By accepting support — emotionally,

A. Absolutely! Many of our clients desire to

little or no experience parenting a newborn.

physically, practically — you are actually

breastfeed, and their goals are our goals. When

They are very excited when they learn that we

offering your baby the best version of yourself

the newborn displays hunger cues, we bring

are here to help.

as their parent.

them to mom for feeding, then take them back

daytime support, overnight care or a mix of both.

to the nursery to burp, swaddle and settle so Q. Which of your services is most in demand?

Q. It’s hard to trust a new person with

mom can go right back to sleep. Since it can

A. Definitely the overnight care. Having a

your newborn. What is your hiring process?

take 45 to 90 minutes per night waking to feed

trained professional, who all your friends have

A. Our practitioners are the best in the industry.

and put baby back to bed, our services are still

used, to provide the highest-quality tender,

Our staff comprises certified postpartum

a massive sleep-saver for a breastfeeding mom.

loving care to your baby while you catch up on

doulas, newborn care specialists, registered

WHERE TO FIND THEM Wichita Baby Company wichitababyco.com wichitababyco@gmail.com 316.302.4484

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WRITTEN BY JULIE HYING

New Designs Wrapped in Old Town Charm GREAT IMAGE DESIGNS

Great Image Designs

Wichita’s downtown area displays historic

Final Four in 2013, this company has supported

charm and invites community members to

Shocker Nation and the WSU Shocks with

check out fresh apparel ideas at Great Image

deluxe local fan wear. Designed in-house for

316.267.5030

Designs. Owners Calah and Andy Titus, along

a custom look, many can enjoy supporting and

gidesignswichita.net

with help from their son Javan, run the store

representing their favorite team.

with an enthusiasm for their customers and their creations. As a small family business,

The Tituses are active in the community and

they are able to spend time and energy with

support schools and teams by taking part in

their family as a primary focus.

fundraisers and alleviating the ordering and money collection part of the process so that

Located at the corner of First and St. Francis,

coaches and school personnel can focus on

they are situated in the heart of Old Town near

their main priority, teaching and coaching

other local favorites such as Nortons Brewing

kids. Coaches and schools place a final seal of

Company, Cocoa Dolce and the Old Town

approval on any design to ensure satisfaction

Farm & Art Market. Calah shares a personal

before production even begins. All of this is

favorite about their location. “I love our unique

meant to take pressure off of others who are

building look: the structural integrity of the

so dedicated to serving our community.

old brick, original woods and steel beams are beautiful features and beautifully complement

Being an integral part of the city is important

the windows filled with new creations and

to these special store owners. What began

design options.”

as a part-time endeavor many years ago has flourished into a full time commitment

They are a full retail store and welcome

and relationship with people of the Wichita

walk-in customers each week, Monday through

area. Calah says, “Working with customers

Saturday. Much of their business focus is

and delving into the imagination behind the

corporate apparel, creating a desired look and

designs they are hoping to create, learning

sharing company logos so that they may support

about the stories behind a saying or quotation

others’ endeavors with their clothing. “From

printed on a gift for a loved one, or where

Corporate to Custom,” they enjoy working with

they draw their inspiration from is as fun and

teams as well as individuals who wish to create

important to us as the clothing we create.”

a gift or something special for themselves. They feature many fashionable options for their female clientele as well as sporting choices, t-shirts, caps, polos, etc.. for men. Great Image Designs is the exclusive fan gear designer for the Wichita Wizards basketball team and The Wichita Force football team. The company also creates and sells unique Wichita State University Shockers sportswear. Beginning with that Cinderella trip to the NCAA 34

WHERE TO FIND THEM

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620 E. 1st Street N., Wichita, KS 67202

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Location // Tanganyika Wildlife Park Photography // Darrin Hackney Photography Models provided by // IMPACTmodels Styling // Jody Klein Hair // Crave Beauty Academy: Chantel C., Hana B., Lexi L., Matraisa L., Theresa D. Makeup // Crave Beauty Academy: Hailey T., Sangai N., Dallas P.

THE LBD, ETC. 316-440-0772

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GREAT IMAGE DESIGNS 316-267-5030

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THE LITTLE DRAWER 316-644-7000

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BRAND UNVEILING COCKTAIL PARTY Le Luci Event Lighting

Nancy Clifford, Dawn Tucker and Amber Williams

Abigail Ranney, Jess Jurczewsky and Jaylee Hennessy

Aharon Hoopes, Ashley Labus and Lise Dugger

Austin, Samantha and Kareya Robinson

Jason and Melissa Hebb with April Johnson and Faith Moore

Cara Decker and Fayola Oyatayo

Le Luci owners Kathy and Jorge Reyes

Jose Gomez, Karen Bres, Zach Fales, Miguel Jimenez and Matt Hinton

Ian Worrell and Connor Hampton

Jovana Johnson and Tony Vu

Jamie Gott and Vanessa Barnard Xclusive Events

Greg and Rachel Hunt

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JEWEL ANGELS 314-779-6600 SPLURGE! MAGAZINE // splurgemag.com

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SPLURGE NIGHT The Candle Club

Cindy Carnahan, Cheryl and Phil Near with John Carnahan

Terry and Jody Klein with Shanoha Hansell and Dean Zook

Shelly Cannady, Lori Nilson, Adrienne and Randy Rathbun, Andrea and Lance Dixon

Cole, Susan and Nicolas Thornton

Christian Kentling, Lindsey Hall, Naomi Arnold, Lisa Barmor and Dawn Long

Stan Rickert and Pam Parker

Lexi Lonergan, Lydia Sharpe and Taci Klein

Leroy and Patricia Thompson, Phillip May, Maureen Youngmeyer, Ann and Dennis Ross

Larry and Judy Doss

Naomi Arnold and Tina Thorpe

Jose Moreno, Pam Bugler, Bart Pilcher and Morgan Goudie

Phil and Rachel Walkup

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WRITTEN BY LAUREN BOUGHFMAN

The Best Father’s Day Gifts for Every Type of Dad With Father’s Day right around the corner, here are some great ideas for every type of dad. It does not matter what you are looking for, we are sure that you will find something perfect for him, just in time for summer. An all-star gift for your all-star Dad will be an awesome way to show your love and appreciation for all that he does.

For the Cook

For the Family Man

Men can be notoriously difficult to shop for.

There are many, many ways to celebrate your

Great accessories for the kitchen, grill or bar

dad on Father’s Day. Selecting the perfect

can make this task a lot easier. Accessories

gift and writing a kind message in his card

specific to one of their favorite summer

are probably a given, but it is important that

activities will be a perfect gift that they can use

this special day is filled with activities that

for years to come.

will bring him even closer to the people he cherishes most: his family.

Where can you find it? • All Things Barbecue, Delano

The true golden gift for Father’s Day is quality

• Williams Sonoma, Bradley Fair

time with the family. Before you dive into the

For the Sports Fan

planning, consider what kind of celebration your dad has in mind. Is he one for a jam-packed day with a full itinerary or does he prefer something

What better way to celebrate Father’s Day

more low-key? This is a very important aspect

than a baseball game with the family? Support

to consider when planning the perfect day.

your favorite MILB team, the Wichita Wind

From stay-at-home activities such as a game

Surge! Spending a night at the ball game is a

night, to weekend plans that’ll take you miles

gift not only for dad but the whole family as

from home, you are guaranteed to find a way to

well. Where better to do it than brand new

spend this special day that can be appreciated

Riverfront Stadium? Visit the MILB site at

by the whole family — Dad, especially.

milb.com/wichita now to buy tickets and merch.

For the Outdoorsman For this kind of dad the possibilities are endless. At the start of summer, this is the time for some of Dad's favorite activities. From fishing to fun at the lake, we got you covered right here in Wichita. Where can you find it? • REI, east Wichita • Cabela’s, east Wichita • Academy Sports + Outdoors, east and west Wichita 48

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dine

WRITTEN BY KIM DUGGER ATTWATER

Napoli Puts Italian Food on the Map in Wichita After 20 years of cooking in other people’s

bruschetta board of whipped ricotta, tomato

kitchens, Jeremy Wade knew exactly the kind

conserva, pesto and more; and spaghetti Nero,

of restaurant he wanted to own.

made with squid ink pasta, blue crab, pickled Fresno chiles, lemon, garlic and butter.

One where “the food’s high quality but the place is comfortable,” as he put it.

Rickard also produces specials on a near daily basis, recently ranging from sea bass and

He’s done it with Napoli, the Italian restaurant

lobster over a potato mash to Sicilian beef

he opened in Siena Plaza last October. It’s an

ragu over house-made cappelletti pasta.

80-seat restaurant that manages to feel both spacious and cozy, with room for 24 more in

Wade and Rickard have come up with a fun

the bar. Outside, the patio seats 120.

way for diners to experience some deep dives

WHERE TO FIND THEM Napoli Italian Eatery 7718 E. 37th St. N. Wichita, KS 67226 316.260.5859 napoliwichita.com

into regional Italian cuisine. “Passport to Italy” The

features

moderately

priced

dinners are offered after 4 p.m. Sunday through

appetizers, pastas, pizzas, sandwiches and

Thursday. The menu changes each month to

traditional entrees such as chicken parmesan

highlight the food of a different region. In May,

and shrimp risotto. Wade, who’s cooked in

for instance, the dishes derived from Calabria,

many of the city’s most popular restaurants,

located on the toe of Italy’s boot. They included

knows what local diners like. But there’s a little

Nduja Panzerotti, a fried pizza fritter filled with

more going on, thanks to Wade’s confidence in

spicy sausage and ricotta; Fileja de Aubergine

his chef, Jordan Rickard.

de Calabrese, a house-made pasta with tomato sauce and eggplant; Polpo di Calabria, charred

Rickard, a Wichita native, graduated from

octopus over warm potatoes and arugula; and

Johnson and Wales culinary school in Denver,

Tartufo di Pizzo, chocolate and hazelnut gelato

then spent several years cooking in Michigan,

with a cherry center.

California and Colorado. When he returned, he sensed a change in his hometown’s tastes.

The dinners, priced between $35 and $45,

“I think the Wichita dining scene is ready for

come with two glasses of wine specific to each

more innovative, regionally inspired food.”

region. Diners get a passport book they can have stamped after each meal, and Wade is

Wade agreed. “We started talking and it clicked

promising a special thank-you for patrons who

right away. I needed his creativity and talent.”

collect all twelve.

Which is why Napoli also features dishes such as a grilled carrot salad with pecans, goat cheese and creamy radicchio dressing; a

Special Offers Napoli offers daily drink specials and a happy hour featuring $3 off pizzas and $2 off appetizers from 3 to 5 p.m. In the bar, pizzas and appetizers are half off from 4 to 7 p.m. Sunday through Thursday.

Watch Kim Dugger Attwater’s interview

If you would like to see your restaurant

with owner Jeremy Wade on our social

in the SPLURGE! Restaurant Spotlight,

media and website, splurgemag.com.

@SPLURGEICT

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The Standard for Excellence

www.weigand.com

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WRITTEN BY JULIE UNDERWOOD BURTON

CELEBRATING 25 YEARS IN WICHITA THE SUCCESS AND FAMILY BEHIND MORT’S MARTINI AND CIGAR BAR Twenty-five years ago, when brothers Morrie and

Morrie is adamant that Mort’s would not be

Matt Sheets met for a martini in a small Kansas

what it is today without Emma and the servers

City bar, they were convinced Wichita needed

she has trained.

a new place where friends could simply meet, enjoy a good drink and listen to great music.

“The best thing we do here is service. Our tremendous staff will see you coming, knows

Morrie shared that vision and partnered with

where you will be sitting and will have your

lifelong Wichita friend Matt Carney, and Mort’s

drink waiting for you. Over 90 percent of our

Martini and Cigar Bar soon opened in 1996.

regulars don’t even have to place their order,”

Located at First Street and Washington, Mort’s

exclaims Morrie.

became a cornerstone for Wichita’s new Old Town development. The original building was

Ask anyone at Mort’s. It is a well-known fact

actually a corner gas station owned by the

that customers often have their drink waiting

Sheets brother’s grandfather. When you step

for them at their favorite table, before they can

inside today, you will see Grandfather Sheet’s

even get inside the door.

picture hanging on the wall alongside picture frames of friends, celebrities and all of Mort’s

Sadly, Morrie lost his brother Matt in September

“Best of Wichita” awards.

2019, yet Matt’s wife Sharon remains an active partner who is committed to overseeing the

Matt Carney and Morrie owned the bar until

business in the manner her husband did. “I

2001 when they both decided to leave the bar

come in each morning, just like he did and

business. After owner Frank Whitmer passed in

make sure everything is clean. And I place

2011, Morrie and his brother Matt jumped on the

the chalkboard announcing daily specials

opportunity to be in business together. They

outside, just like Mattie did”. A mural painted

bought Mort’s back, updated furnishings and

by PAINTology’s local artist team, Michael and

created a year-round enclosed, temperature-

Rachel Downs, will soon don the building’s

controlled patio venue prior to reopening.

outside south wall. In Matt’s honor, part of the drawing includes his chalkboard, plus the

Mort’s

its

mural will depict the many things Mort’s Cigar

impressive martini list of 160 martini types

undoubtedly

famous

for

and Martini Bar is known for including their

along with their full bar, rotating tap beer

martinis, music and cigars.

selection with Wichita microbrews, and free popcorn. Patrons are also appreciative of the

In the bar industry, the longevity of Mort’s is

quality cigar selection. Live music plays on the

unprecedented and is to be celebrated. On June

award-winning “Best Patio” seven days a week

26 and 27, Mort’s will host a 25-Year Anniversary

and rarely is a seat left empty and tables are

Party with live music, a photo booth, food, fun

always to be shared.

and festivities. And of course, great drinks and popcorn will be served. Everyone is invited!

Staff turnover at Mort’s is practically nonexistent as the Sheets brothers always worked hard to create a “family affair” atmosphere for patrons and staff. Likely the most familiar face is that of Emma Russell, who has worked at Mort’s almost the entire 25 years. Starting at the age of 18 as a server, with a keen business sense and people skills, she was quickly promoted to general manager and later became an operating partner when the business was bought back by Morrie and Matt. 58

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WHERE TO FIND THEM Mort’s Martini and Cigar Bar 923 E. First Street N., Wichita, KS 67202 316.262.1785 mortswichita.com

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WRITTEN BY JULIA UNDERWOOD BURTON

A CLOSE GETAWAY!

TOP 7 REASONS TO VISIT 7 CLANS CASINOS Billed as the “hottest gaming destination of the north,” 7 Clans Casinos is a great destination for gaming, entertainment and dining. With five casino locations within an easy drive from Wichita, each casino has something different to offer, yet the mission remains the same — to offer a great gaming atmosphere in a safe exhilarating environment. 1. More Winners, Many Chances To Win

5. Stay and Play At Luxurious Hotels

7 Clans First Council awarded one winner an

First Council Casino & Resort offers two cozy

enormous $50,000 progressive prize already in

towers: the Beachfront and the Oceanview

2021. This month, 7 Clans Chilocco Gasino will

Hotels. Whichever you choose, these new

be giving away a brand-new Harley-Davidson!

hotels will never charge you extra fees for

It's simple. More contests, more winners!

parking, Wi-Fi, the fitness center, waterpark

Check the website for new promotions and

access, or in-room coffee and water. They

giveaways. You won’t want to miss out on the

even offer a state-of-the-art arcade for the

fun — you could be their next winner.

kids with the latest video games, and there’s a

2. The Indoor Waterpark The 7 Clans Waterpark at First Council Casino offers fun for the entire family. The 19,300

great bar, snacks and dining options. A total of 142 rooms are available, including suites that accommodate parties of up to eight or 12.

square-foot waterpark caters to all ages and is

6. Customer Service

reserved exclusively for hotel guests. Whether

Looking for a rewards program that is

you enjoy floating or soaking in the lazy river,

unparalleled? The 7 Clans Reward Card is your

zipping down one of the four water tube slides

passport to unique events and experiences. The

or simply enjoy splashing or swimming, the

more you play, the more you earn in rewards.

indoor waterpark is full of fun and can be a

Their staff is always eager to greet you with a

great place to relax any day of the year. Plus,

smile and happy to answer any questions.

it’s just steps away from the casino.

3. The Best, Loosest Slots

7. Amazing Concerts and Events More than 100 national recording artists and

In April, 7 Clans First Council paid out over $5

comedians have played in the 7 Clans First

million to individuals in jackpots, and claims

Council Events Center. And the best is yet to

to have the widest variety of games on their

come. Concerts and events are posted on their

spacious gaming floors, always ready for action.

website, so you can always see who’s coming

4. Best Game Tables

next. There’s definitely an event for everyone!

The fun’s not limited to just slot machines.

Play all day and relax the night away or just

Available on the gaming floor is live blackjack,

come for a day. For more information about any

craps, roulette and ultimate Texas Hold ’Em

of the 7 Clans casinos, go to sevenclans.com.

for casino guests. Come on in, have some fun and place your bets on the best game tables around. For beginners, they even offer video tutorials on their website.

DISCOVER NON-STOP GAMING ACTION AND FIRST-RATE CUSTOMER SERVICE AT ANY OF THE FIVE 7 CLANS DESTINATIONS: 7 CLANS FIRST COUNCIL CASINO & RESORT NEWKIRK, OK 7 CLANS PARADISE CASINO RED ROCK, OK 7 CLANS PERRY CASINO PERRY, OK 7 CLANS CHILOCCO GASINO NEWKIRK, OK 7 CLANS RED ROCK GASINO RED ROCK, OK

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WRITTEN BY JULIE UNDERWOOD BURTON

Back to Work, but Where Am I To Go? OMNI BUSINESS CENTER OFFERS THE RIGHT OFFICE SOLUTION

The COVID-19 pandemic abruptly changed our

from-home office,” offers amenities, choices and

workspaces for an infinite number of staff so they

work culture, forcing many to shift and adapt

a work environment like no other in Wichita

can work and interact as a team. And for those

to a virtual home or remote office setting. Now,

and stands apart as a unique, reinvented work

individuals working remotely, employers can take

as the workforce moves into a post-pandemic

environment where a sense of connection is

advantage of the cost-savings options by renting

world, there are emerging trends about how and

truly fostered.

the minimum office space size they need and then

where we will return to work. The office scene has ultimately shifted and so has the mindset.

provide memberships for the staff who do work Once inside, Kansas art and artists are showcased

remotely, or work a large part of their day out in

on practically every wall. The kitchen offers fresh

the community.”

Companies are recognizing that not everyone is

roasted coffee, plus a popular complimentary

keen about moving back to a traditional office

beer tap featuring a local microbrew. Members

Omni’s motto is, “Downsize your office, upgrade

setting and admit that face-to-face interactions

can relax anytime in the sleep pods or take a break

your life.” Stop by anytime for your tour of this

on a daily basis are not required. In some cases,

in the large lounge, which boasts a 90-inch TV and

incredible office campus. For more information,

a previous office space or building does not

a pinball machine. The lounge is also available

call 316.689.3539 or visit omnibizcenter.com.

even exist. One thing employers do recognize is,

for after-work or evening group gatherings.

without a central gathering place, there is virtually

Outside is a landscaped garden area complete

no office culture, which naturally happens when

with a waterfall, putting green, BBQ grills and soft

groups of people come together. CEOs, business

seating. Nearby are bike and walking paths and

owners and HR managers really are contemplating

the pickleball court is under construction. Best of

what the next new normal might be, and many are

all, Omni H20 is dog-friendly!

seeking hybrid workplace solutions. Members from all three buildings on the Omni Step into my office! Wichita’s Omni Business

campus can enjoy any of the amenities and

Center, located just west of Towne East Mall, off

appreciate the door-side parking, keyless entry,

Rock Road and Douglas, has been in the office

fresh food market, catering kitchen, dry cleaning

leasing business since 1986, leasing private suites

and laundry drop services, and onsite postal and

with an exclusive address, dedicated phone

shipping services. Private and semi-private offices,

line, personal receptionist, conference rooms, a

conference rooms, workstations and cubicles are

kitchen and full-service business center. When

all available as cost-savings options.

one of its three buildings became vacant in 2020, owners Buff Farrow and his brother Jeff quickly

“We wanted to bring in something different and

repurposed the building into a hybrid office

give employers the flexibility to choose an office

model dedicated to stress-free officing with

or work culture based on their needs,” states Buff

flexible, cost-savings membership options.

Farrow. “The pandemic has certainly changed how individuals prefer to work today. At Omni,

With this emphasis on enhancing work-life

with a hybrid office and campus model, we are

balance, the new Omni H20, “Your home-away-

thrilled with our concept which provides efficient SPLURGE! MAGAZINE // splurgemag.com

WHERE TO FIND THEM Omni Business Center Campus

111 S. Whittier Street, Wichita, KS 67207 316.689.3539 | omnibizcenter.com

experts

WRITTEN BY ZACH AND SHANNON HETTENBACH, FLUTTERBYE RANCH

FlutterBye Ranch

Linking Past With Presence Crowley Ranch has been a part of Shannon

The Hettenbachs are committed to giving back

Hettenbach’s

1899,

with events such as a Sweetheart Dinner that

crops,

benefits a local family in February, and in March

grassland for beef cattle and quarter horses,

their TimberRun 5K benefits Hope Ranch for

a dairy and even a Pony Express outpost. The

Women. In the fall, they host a music festival

one thing the ranch has always been is a place

to bring awareness to a veterans suicide

to gather friends, family and community in

prevention group called F22. This year will

the beauty of the Flint Hills.

feature Jason Calhoun, as well as the locally

providing

family

four

legacy

generations

since with

popular Flashpoint. In November, a holiday Shannon and husband Zach have been

market benefits the Butler Homeless Initiative.

working for over 15 years to bring the ranch into the future by adding their vision: honoring

Father’s Day weekend features the annual

the past, giving back to the community, and

Patio Party, with yard games and hayrack

providing a beautiful backdrop for amazing

rides plus music, food and drinks on the patio.

memories. Just 10 minutes southeast of

“Every year we make a dedication to our own

Augusta, the heart of the property is now

dads,” Shannon said. “My dad was literally the

called FlutterBye Ranch, with a centerpiece

reason I came back to the farm, and Zach’s

they

dad was a farmer at heart. So we really take a

features sparkling chandeliers, a modern

minute to honor them and the difference they

stone fireplace and 20-foot ceilings, plus

made, as they have both passed on and left

stylish loft lodging that sleeps eight. Guests

us with important memories and traditions. ”

christened

FlutterBye

Pavilion.

enjoy games, fishing, roasting marshmallows at a huge fire pit, and exploring the many trails

The Hettenbachs say that everything about

running along calming waters and pristine

FlutterBye Ranch pays homage to the past

prairies and reaching deeply into the forests.

and to their families — including the name, which is a nod to Shannon’s brother. “He

The pavilion is rated for 183 occupants,

passed away in a car accident at age 18,” Zach

and 24-foot glass doors open to unlimited

said. "When we were first dating, we were on a

outdoor activities with available gazebo

hike during the monarch migration and I said

and archways, a stone staircase, thousands

something about the ‘flutterbyes.’ It got oddly

of flowers and a shimmering pond. The

quiet. I look over and Shannon is getting

FlutterBye is a photographer's dream.

teary-eyed.” She told him her brother was dyslexic, so the word “flutterbye” reminded

Zach, who has over 20 years’ experience in

her of him. Zach and Shannon’s daughter,

the culinary industry, combines his expertise

Ruby, dubbed the pond “Callipitter Pond,”

from his years as a chef at YaYas Euro Bistro,

a gentle reminder to respect and celebrate

catering manager at Spirit and food service

what makes us different.

director at Learjet. He keeps the guests well fed with his many foodie favorites such as

The couple says there’s a lot of history to be

balsamic-braised pork, custom taco bars, and

enjoyed at The FlutterBye, and a lot more to be

his signature Reuben sandwiches. A full cash

made with the help of their guests. Whether

bar is another addition to a complete menu of

you come for a fancy event, or to casually chill

choices for any kind of gathering.

on the patio, the Hettenbachs are looking forward to having you out to the ranch.

SPLURGE! MAGAZINE // splurgemag.com

WHERE TO FIND THEM FlutterBye Ranch 1001 SW 140th, Leon, KS 67074 316.689.2311 flutterbyeranch.com

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Frank Lichtlin, Joe White and Troy Jordan

VIA CHRISTI CHARITY GOLF CLASSIC Crestview Country Club

Via Christi Charity Golf Classic committee members

Ron Harris, Garney Hill, Rick Jackson and Melissa VanDorn

Emma Hickey and Kara Warkentine

C.R. Nelson, Tim Lenz, Jude and Ben Simon

Kent Koehler, Christine Beck, Scott Tomlinson and Alison Burt

Club Car Wash

Team Regent Park

Team EBY

Michelle Ojeda, Evelyn and Jacqueline Nguyen and Thaihoa Huynh

Kathleen Jagger, David Alexander, Randy and Jon Simon

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Hite, Fanning & Honeyman LLP

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WRITTEN BY LAUREN BOUGHFMAN

Make Dad Feel Like

a King

TEN ACTIVITIES FOR FATHER’S DAY

If you’re looking to show your gratitude towards Dad, Father’s Day is the perfect way to do so. Gifts are a great way to show your love and appreciation, but nothing is more special than the act of quality time. If you are able, your company is the best gift you can give him. Looking for a way to make your dad feel like a king on his special day? Continue reading for 10 activities that make the ideal Father’s Day celebration. 1. Go to the lake

6. Spend the day with family

Right in time for summer, Father’s Day is the

Spending a day on the lake is the perfect cele-

perfect time to enjoy the beautiful weather.

bration for Father's Day. Rent a boat or jet ski for

A short day trip to the lake will give Dad the

the day and spend quality time on the water.

getaway he is looking for and give the family the fun they are looking for.

2. Buy tickets to his favorite sporting event

7. Give him a well-deserved day off He’s given you so much, now it’s time to give back. One way to give Dad a break would be to pick up some of his chores. Something as

Tickets to his favorite sporting event are always

simple as mowing the yard for him will make

a winning idea. Want to be the favorite child?

him feel appreciated.

You could even consider season tickets for his No. 1 team. Of course, Father’s Day falls right

8. Take him to his favorite restaurant

in the heart of baseball season, though buying

Treat your dad to a five-star meal at his favorite

tickets for any of his favorite sporting events in

restaurant. Take him and the family out

advance is also a great gift idea.

for dinner to celebrate him and all that he is.

3. Go camping This year, you could start a camping tradition.

9. Accompany him in doing his favorite activities

Pitch a tent, start a campfire, or whatever

Whatever his favorite activity may be, your

camping looks like for your family. Explore

company will make it ten times better. This

campgrounds near you and try something new

day is about him — what better way to spend it

that is fun for the whole family.

than a day full of his favorite activities with his

4. Family game night

favorite people?

Hosting your own family game night is the

10. Give him a call

perfect way to bring out his competitive side.

If you live far away from home and are unable

This activity is fun for the whole family and is

to make the trip, just hearing from you can

guaranteed to make some memories.

make your father’s day. A simple conversation

5. Weekend getaway

can put a smile on your dad’s face for his special day.

June is a great month to travel and get away. Though it does not have to be far — this trip can be to whatever extent you desire it to be. This is the perfect way to escape from home and distractions, even if for only a weekend.

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Q&A

WRITTEN BY JULIE UNDERWOOD BURTON

TALKING CABINETS, COUNTERTOPS AND MORE! with Rachel Phillips Owner and Designer, Kitchen Tune-Up

From colors to finishes, this year is a turning

recently dominated the countertop industry

point for kitchen design. Let’s explore!

as the most durable and neutral product available. However, recent advances in stone

Q: What are current trends in kitchen cabinets?

sealer have companies offering an unbeatable 20-year warranty against accidental staining.

A. In cabinetry, we typically see two styles. A

So, for many clients, “sealed granite” is a top

modified shaker is a simple shaker style with

choice as well as the stronger natural stones

small details or insets to make it a bit more

like quartzite.

interesting. Another popular option is the slab door. This sleek style can be contemporary,

A new trending choice is the matte finished

industrial, mid-century modern, luxe and even

countertop available in quartz, granite, concrete

farmhouse. The finish and hardware on these flat

and a new porcelain material. A local customer

doors will define the tone and style of the space.

favorite is the “ebony honed” granite that provides texture and durability with the look

When it comes to color, white cabinets have

of less durable soapstone. Also, the matte gray

been popular for years. While other colors,

quartz that looks like concrete is in demand.

styles and stains come and go, white painted shaker is a staple for this market and is our top

Q: What other trends are emerging?

seller. You can dress it up or dress it down and it is a transitional foundation for any home. This

A. A matching backsplash is also a new trend

style is perfect if you are considering reselling

and creates a sleek, cleanable surface without

your house because it presents such a clean,

grout lines and minimal caulking. Another

classic look and is a great investment.

popular choice is the large-format tiles that can be used in a variety of fun ways, including

Rich charcoal and onyx-stained cabinets or

backsplashes, showers, fireplaces and floors.

colorful painted cabinets in blues, greens and

Some of these tiles are now available in sizes

even black have increased in recent months.

up to 5-by-9 feet, which is a dramatic shift from

Color trends are beginning to shift from the

a 3-by-6 inch subway tile. If a smaller tile is

popular deep navy blue color to the green

used, typically it is a shaped tile such as a hex,

family of deep teals, jade, sage and soft mint.

picket or arabesque.

Wood tones are also starting to be a popular

And mixed metallics are in! Long gone are the

choice as we are seeing natural, organic

days of every piece of metal finish matching

elements combined with painted and metallic

in a home. Today, we are looking for lighting,

elements or mixed with live-edge walnut open

hardware, plumbing fixtures and appliances

shelving, natural knotty wood island cabinets

that use multiple finishes like matte black and

and beautiful hickory flooring. Combining the

champagne golds, mixed with shiny surfaces

wood-tone elements with painted cabinets

like chrome or polished nickel.

or metallic tiles and hoods offers gorgeous combinations that complement and make even

There are so many great style combinations.

a small space big on style.

At Kitchen Tune-Up, we will help you make informed decisions and focus on the elements

Q: What are today’s top countertop choices?

you want to incorporate, all within a budgetfriendly design. Request your consultation by

A. Once again, it’s all about granite countertops!

calling 316.558.8888.

Quartz that looks like white marble has 80

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WHERE TO FIND THEM Kitchen Tune-Up serves Wichita and surrounding communities including Andover, Newton, Kingman, Derby and Wellington. 3545 N. Hillside St., Wichita, KS 67219 316.558.8888 | kitchentuneup.com

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BABY LONDON’S CHRISTENING BRUNCH The home of Chris Angel Gomez and Carlisle Williams IV

Rolando and Kristha Garcia

Baby London, BJ Williams and Christopher Gomez

Rolando Garcia Sr. and Adela Gonzalez

Angel and Angelica Gomez

Celebration cake

Auddie Cordero

Baby London and BJ Williams

Angelica Gomez and Baby London

Marlen Luaces and Shannon Hoffmann

Barbara, John and Shannon Hoffmann

Auddie and the Hoffmanns enjoyng brunch

Cheri and Andrew Koke

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Q&A with Cozine Memorial Group President and Funeral Director, Ashley Cozine

WRITTEN BY JULIE UNDERWOOD BURTON

Over the past year, many families have been

memorial service generally takes place after

to consider a plaque at a cemetery so that you

unable to hold a funeral or memorial service for

the process. In determining which type of

and your family are able to have a permanent

their loved ones due to Covid-19 restrictions.

service to choose, you may want to consider

place to memorialize your loved one.

As a funeral service professional, Ashley Cozine

if viewing or a visitation is important to

says the absence of this significant ceremony

your family. Many families choose to have

has heightened awareness of the importance

a visitation because, like the service or

of gathering together and supporting each

ceremony, it too brings about closure and

other during one of life’s most difficult times.

serves as an important part of the healing

Q. What are the benefits of having a funeral or memorial service?

process. Services can be wide ranging, from contemporary to traditional and from religious to secular. Music, scripture, poetry, shared memories and stories can be added

A. It is important to remember that a funeral

to make the service unique, personal and

or memorial service is not only a way to honor

memorable. Oftentimes, families will set up a

the deceased, but rather, it is primarily used

table with special memorabilia and pictures

as a way to support and comfort the living. In

that

fact, most psychologists agree that a funeral

interests and personality of the individual.

or memorial service is the best way to bring

All of these ideas can add meaning to the

closure to a life that has been lived. It not only

service or ceremony and help everyone to

helps family and friends move ahead with their

share in this special time of remembrance.

lives following a loss, but it also serves as an opportunity to honor, celebrate and remember the life of a loved one. The service allows family

acknowledge

the

accomplishments,

Q. What are the options after cremation?

and friends to find strength and comfort by

W. ASHLEY COZINE is a third-generation

gathering together and sharing memories and

A. There are many options for final disposition

funeral director. He is president and owner of

special times with one another. Gathering at

when cremation is selected. Most families

Cozine Memorial Group.

the service allows everyone to be included in

find comfort in knowing that their loved

the grieving process and, most importantly,

one is in a permanent resting place. The

allows the immediate family to begin the

specific location gives family and friends, as

healing process. It is a good idea to discuss

well as future generations, a place to go for

the importance of the service with family and

reflection and remembrance. The cremated

friends before the actual need arises.

remains can be placed in an urn and kept in

Q. Are there different types of services when cremation is selected?

a niche at a columbarium, or they can also be placed in an urn vault and buried in a space at a cemetery. Another option is to keep the cremated remains of your loved one with you

A. Cremation offers the choice of a funeral

for final disposition at a later time. Some

or a memorial service. A funeral service,

families scatter their loved one’s remains

in which the body is present in a casket,

over water or at another meaningful location.

takes place before the cremation process. A

If this is the option you choose, you may want SPLURGE! MAGAZINE // splurgemag.com

Cozine Memorial Group 316.COZINES 316.269.4637

www.cozine.com

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WRITTEN BY JULIE UNDERWOOD BURTON

It Takes the Right Handyman A PERFECT CAREER PATH FOR BUSINESS OWNER PHIL DAVIS Growing up in Wichita as a kid, Phil Davis

with home improvement projects, but Phil

spent endless hours watching and helping his

decided to take this franchise to a new level.

dad repair televisions and radios. Letting kids

For your Slide Out Shelf Solutions complimentary consultation,

discover their own talents can say a lot about

“The handyman industry was not necessarily

where their gifts lie and possibly this is where

known yet for being a service, let alone for

Phil’s story truly begins.

construction in general. With my background

call Phil Davis at 316.768.8808.

in business and customer service, the one By the age of 6, Phil

thing that mattered to me was that the phone

learned to solder and

was answered and customers would receive

proudly remembers his

personal callbacks the next day for after-hour

“show and tell” project

calls.” Under Phil’s leadership, the franchise

where he soldered parts

business grew quickly and, after fulfilling the

316.768.8808

borrowed from his Dad.

10-year franchise agreement, it seemed to be

SlideOutShelfSolutions.com

As a youth, he recalls

the right time for Phil to own his own business.

A division of The Best Home Guys

enjoying hobbies that

With its slogan, ‘Your Home Deserves the Best,’

involved mechanical and moving parts and says

Phil’s new company named The Best Home

he particularly loved building planes, models

Guys opened in 2015.

and anything to do with rocketry. Another door soon opened with an opportunity While

attending

School

that seemed to fit perfectly within the

and Wichita State University, Phil focused

handyman service business plan. After meeting

on computer programming, math, physics

a dealer who sold slide-out shelving units,

and

engineering

Southeast

classes.

High

Phil introduced this concept to numerous

chose accounting as his profession with the

Eventually

homeowners. The popularity and demand for

conviction that all successful businesses must

this unique, space-saving product skyrocketed,

have a good accountant. While in college, he

prompting Phil to create a separate division

married his wife Shelley and together they

within his company. Appropriately named

raised two daughters.

Slide Out Shelf Solutions, Phil has now been installing these popular slide-out shelves in

And as many of us know, when one door closes,

Wichita homes for over 14 years.

another opens. This certainly proved true for Phil’s career path when the company he worked

Phil personally visits each home where he

for suddenly closed its doors. According to

works one-on-one with customers to design a

Phil, “With a severance package and some

customized plan based on individual storage

ignorance, I was able to buy into a franchise”

needs, lifestyle and budget. What customers

and so the story continues. Committed to stay

love most is how this shelving solution

in Wichita where he had lived his entire life,

amazingly doubles or triples usable space

Phil began working with a franchise broker

within their kitchen, pantries and bathroom

and was presented 10 different business

cabinets. Made in the U.S.A. and constructed

opportunities. What appealed most was the

of Baltic birch, the shelves are fully extendable

opportunity to buy a handyman franchise.

and can support up to 100 pounds. As always, with a dedication to customer service, Phil

In 2005, a handyman service was a new

offers his customers a limited lifetime warranty

concept. People typically relied on a friend,

that stays in place for the original owner.

neighbor or anyone who had a truck to help

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WHERE TO FIND THEM Slide Out Shelf Solutions

experts

What to do for your special man this Father’s Day... give him the gift of a Man Cave! BY NAHID HOLMES | DESIGN SOURCE INTERIORS Now more than ever before I am seeing a demand

THE INFAMOUS TELEVISION: I get it. Every man

for a man’s space to call his own. It is not unheard

needs his television. All I ask is that you dress up the

of for the main entertaining spaces of the home

area around it. If you are going for a more casual

to be decorated by someone other than the man

space don’t mount the TV to the wall. Rest the TV

of the home, but that doesn’t mean his space

on an interesting sideboard underneath it. Or if you

should be any less luxurious or well thought out.

are going for more of the theater room feel, add

This Father’s Day do something different...give the

curtains to the side of the TV. And if you really want

man of the house a space he can call his man cave!

to go the extra step, install the curtains on a motion rod that will open and close with the touch of a

In most cases the basement is the designated

button. (Trust me. It’s easier than you think! And fun

space for the man of the house. It’s time to put

to show off at every Super Bowl Party.)

more down there than just a big screen TV! And remember that size doesn’t matter. You can have

GAMES: OK let’s admit it — many husbands are just

an incredible space if it is well planned out. Here

big kids. So, let them have their games and enjoy

are some tips to creating a man cave for the man

their space. But push them to incorporate textures

of the house this Father’s Day.

around these tables. For example, even if you have carpet, put an area rug under your round game

FLOORING: Most people have carpet in the

table. Or replace the Budweiser light over

basement. It’s time to get rid of the carpet! This is a

the pool table with an iron chandelier. Or

space when you can try something different. Stain

add some fabric on the windows next to

the concrete, add chiseled travertine, or lay wood

the foosball table. *DESIGNER’S RULE*

grain ceramic tile. If you must have carpet at least

When installing window treatments in a

have carpet with a tone on tone texture or subtle

basement go all the way up from floor to

overlay pattern. The basement flooring does not

ceiling. A window topper will make your

need to match the main level flooring.

room feel shorter.

imagine the possibilities 98

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FULL INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICES INCLUDING: Furniture • Accessories • Large rug selection • Custom window treatments • Bedding • Art SPACE PLANNING: There is hidden opportunity around every corner. Nothing frustrates me more

For Father’s Day, this year do something different. Make your husband smile by showing

than when someone remodels a space without

him you care by coming up with an idea to make a space in the house his. For more ideas or

thinking HOW it could be done differently. Under

for help with coming up with those ideas, call me. I’m happy to come out and help put some

your stairs, you have opportunity. Use that for

ideas together. He will thank you! (And imagine what next year’s Mother’s Day will be like!)

audio video equipment so you can eliminate that hand me down oak dresser that your TV is sitting on. Or use that unfinished storage room as an exercise room. If you haven’t used that Christmas wrapping paper in over 10 years, it’s time to let it go! FIREPLACE: Since the dawn of age it has been proven that man loves fire. And as long as the stone and mantle around it is pretty, so do women. There are fantastic alternatives to complete chimney, flue, firebox remodel options. Electric fireplaces have come a long way in both visual appeal as well as efficient heat control. Another alternative is ethanol. Both are cost effective and add value engineering to any space. Surface mounted electric or gas fireplaces bring in an element of casual elegance. WINE CELLAR: A wine cellar can be as simple as you wish or as extensive as you can dream. Basement space is much cooler by nature than the main level so for the average homeowner it may not be necessary to invest money into all of the climate controlled equipment as the pros. A wine cellar must have ample storage for the bottles but must also look great from every angle, both day and night. So, lighting is important and can come in the form of sconces, LED tape light or multi pendants. Lighting sources don’t need to be expensive because each form is impactful in its own way. Your splurge investment may come in the door to the cellar. Floor to ceiling clear glass allows you to see what is happening or you can go with a heavy iron door to intrigue guests as to what is behind that door.

316.733.7080 WEATHERSTONE VILLAGE 736 N. ANDOVER RD., ANDOVER KS

Call or visit our showroom today to schedule your in-home consultation.

DSIANDOVER.COM

home

WRITTEN BY JOE STUMPE

Thinking About a Dock? LISTEN TO AN EXPERT

Q&A WITH W.C. WILSON, WILSON DOCK CONSTRUC TION Lake season is here, which means many people

Q. Can you help clients with design?

Q. What brought you into the Kansas market?

will be thinking about installing or replacing

A. Yes. I was pretty much born and raised in

A. There was a developer there building

docks. SPLURGE! Magazine recently spoke with

the industry and have done it my whole life.

houses about 12 or 13 years ago and he gave

W.C. Wilson, one of the Midwest’s foremost

My great-grandfather had one of the first

us the opportunity to put a couple of docks

dock builders. Wilson owns Wilson Dock

commercial resorts on Bull Shoals Lake.

out there. The docks are still around and word

Construction, which is based near Branson,

Started in 1952. My family still owns that today.

spread.

Q. What are some things people should think

Q. How much do your docks cost?

about when deciding on a dock?

A. Right now, the market’s pretty volatile due

Q. How do you approach your business?

A. If it was me personally, I would think about

to fluctuating steel prices. A little one-stall

A. I’d say the thing that sets us apart in the

longevity. I want to build something that fits

dock would probably start at about $20,000.

industry is everything’s done in-house. We

the client and the client can appreciate for

Depending on how custom it gets, it could go

can handle just about any project from the

years. That’s a big thing for me, to see people

up to $40,000 or $60,000. It’s a pretty big price

float up. We are very open-minded to projects,

post photos year after year of family gathering

range depending on what the customer wants.

very custom oriented. We kind of allow the

on the dock. If it was my family, I would look at

customer to have a free range of design as

what best suits us and lasts the longest.

Missouri. The company has built numerous docks for clients in Kansas.

long as it meets Corps of Engineers standards or the standards where they’re located.

Q. How long does it take to have one built? A. Right now, you’re looking at three to five

Q. Haven’t you done some pretty elaborate

months. Materials are getting slowed down,

docks for famous clients?

but we have our own in-house trucking

Q. What’s the advantage of doing things

A. We’ve done a lot of them. We have a lot of

company so we are able to go a little further

in-house?

clients that we’ve built multiple docks for,

out to help our vendors get us material. Right

A. It allows us total control over quality.

from presidents of companies to professional

now, that’s definitely a good thing.

Some companies buy their structures from

athletes and entertainers. We’ve definitely

a supplier. We build ours and pretty much

had several where they were working with a

Q. Last question: Do you sell boat lifts?

everything else in-house. Swim ladders to

blank check. We’ve been pretty blessed with

A. Yes, we own E-Z Rider Boat Lifts. The E-Z

fishing stations to wet bars — you name it. We

our clientele.

Rider has been in production since the ’70s,

also truck our own material and have our own

and we bought it from the very first owner. We

crews install the docks.

build all of our lifts in-house.

100

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101

faces

WSU SOFTBALL Wilkins Stadium at the Kemnitz/Ruud Party Deck

Emma Lanham, Larry Teague, Alex Johnson and Ricky Brotherton

Dana and Lexi Lonergan with Taci, Jody and Terry Klein

Steve Ruud with Kelly, Kaitlyn and Jimmy McEntaffer

Jason White, Mike Sharp and Brent Kemnitz

Dominic Okon, Darron Boatright, Brent Kemnitz, Steve Ruud and Alex Johnson

Ryan Hillard, Coach Isaac Brown and Domiic Okon

Chris Purdum and Craig Shultz

Monica and Dominic Okon, Chris Purdum, Ryan Hillard and Alex Johnson

Steve and Cheryl Carr

Tonya, Jeff and Ava Gaona, Tayton Klein and Max Middleton

Kevin and Kelly Kelly

Todd and Dani Klein with Dalton McAlister and David Toelle

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