NOTES FROM THE
publisher & sstaff p WE ALL LOVE OUR SHOCKERS, SO WHO IS YOUR SECOND FAVORITE BASKETBALL TEAM AND WHY?
Jody Klein
Kim Azaria
PUBLISHER AND PRESIDENT
ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
14 YEARS WITH SPLURGE!
4 YEARS WITH SPLURGE!
I feel like I am cheating on our
The historic Kansas Jayhawks
Shockers by even thinking about
program, because the inventor
a second favorite! But if I have to
of the game coached there.
select one, it would be the Kansas
James Naismith not only brought
Jayhawks since my husband and
basketball to the university but
daughter are KU graduates!
evolved it into what it is today.
Amy Palser
Nicklaus Lawrence
WRITER
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
4 YEARS WITH SPLURGE!
1 YEAR WITH SPLURGE!
Back in the day I loved the
Kansas
Chicago Bulls when they were
grew up as a kid watching KU
winning NBA championships left
basketball with my father. Plus,
and right. You weren’t cool in my
it’s hard not to like the Jayhawks
school unless you were wearing
when your last name is Lawrence!
Jayhawks,
because
I
red and black and Air Jordans!
12828 E. 13th N.,Wichita, KS 67230 316.267.3678 PUBLISHING COMPANY
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Kelsey Ralston
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© 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 3 — March 2021
FEATURES 8
Pivot Drills: Shocker Basketball In the face of coaching changes, transfers and a pandemic, players from every level on the men’s team are stepping up, guided by an interim coach providing continuity and leadership.
9
The Evolution of WuShock What’s puzzling to outsiders makes perfect sense once you know the history of WuShock. How a shock of wheat came to embody the combative Shocker spirit.
12
Walser Auto Campus Paul Walser expanded his dealership into the Wichita area with a focus on luxury brands and a “oneperson, one price” transparency model as clear as the windshield on a new Porsche.
16
The Smallest Step: Liz Willis When local mom Liz Willis woke up from a C-section as an amputee, her first race was learning to walk before her young son. Then she went on to compete
HIGHLIGHTS
in the Paralympics.
22 — WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH 24 — DANCING WITH DEVIN 52 — WICHITA BABY COMPANY
48
The Greens at Terradyne At this new restaurant the views are almost enough to distract you from the grilled bone-in pork chops,
on the cover:
THE EVOLUTION OF WUSHOCK
PHOTOS PROVIDED BY WICHITA STATE UNIVERSITY
14-ounce rib-eye or stacked brisket sandwich. Almost.
54
Fitness Fresh Start Already fell off the New Year’s resolution wagon? Start your March resolutions with a Reformer Flow class, strength-driven interval training, holistic fitness or aerial yoga.
4
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WRITTEN BY AMY PALSER
Alzheimer's Disease Research: Could Gut Health Be Key? While significant breakthroughs in Alzheimer’s
AMR performs clinical research trials to support
But even that method of diagnosis is falling to
disease have been few and far between over the
pharmaceutical companies in the development
the wayside in favor of tests that look at specific
last decade, science is now looking to the gut
of new drugs, devices and vaccines. AMR has 15
proteins in the blood. “We can see that amyloids
for answers, and it could be the breakthrough
locations (four of which are in the Wichita area)
and other proteins like tau have been shown to
the medical community has been waiting for.
and two affiliated member centers across the
rise in people who are going to get Alzheimer’s,”
Researchers, including those in Wichita, are
United States, not to mention 126 investigators,
Klein said. Researchers then began to study
asking the question: Is there a connection
over 7,749 previous clinical trials and access to
whether removing these proteins would slow
between Alzheimer’s disease and gut health?
databases of over 657,344 patients.
the progression of Alzheimer’s, but their
Dr. Thomas Klein of Wichita, a family physician
For the particular study in which Klein is
and founder of Alliance for Multispecialty
involved, AMR is seeking participants who have
About two years ago, British researchers
Research
Heartland
been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or
discovered that intestinal bacteria was tied to
Research Associates), said AMR is conducting
who have a family history of a diagnosis. The
Parkinson’s disease. “This opened up a whole
research connecting Alzheimer’s disease to gut
research is promising, Klein said, and he hopes
new thought: What’s the chance that if the
issues. They’re actively seeking participants
AMR’s studies might shed some light that could
intestine is having a problem, that is leading to
for the study, but coming up with willing
reverse Alzheimer’s symptoms, or perhaps
the development of Parkinson’s — and then if
participants can pose a bit of a problem.
eliminate Alzheimer’s disease altogether.
Parkinson’s, what about Alzheimer’s?” Klein said.
“Some people who are good candidates for a
Inflammation and Brain Health
Now
findings weren’t promising.
(formerly
known
as
are
exploring
whether
in the study, or what they will find out about
Diagnosing a patient with Alzheimer’s disease
the brain and affecting normal brain function.
themselves in the study,” Klein said. “If we have
used to be based on symptoms — things
“And if we decrease inflammation in the
any difficulty as researchers, it’s participants’
like how patients answer specific questions,
intestines, will it decrease signs and symptoms
fear and concerns of being involved in research.”
whether they have distortions in balance and
in the brain?” Klein asked. “And why is this
how well they recall recent events. But in the
happening in the first place? Many of those
In order to make strides in Alzheimer's disease
world of research, Klein said, those methods
questions have yet to be answered.”
research, though, having study participants is
are becoming archaic. “Now we can tell if
imperative. “Everything is dependent on people
someone is going to get Alzheimer’s even
Klein said that’s exactly where this promising
being willing to take part in research,” Klein said.
before he or she has cognizant impairment by
research is headed, and he has hopes for some
“If I had a message to convey to the public, it
using MRIs and PET scans.”
major breakthroughs. To take part in the study, visit AMR at heartlandresearch.com.
would be this: Don’t be afraid of research.”
6
researchers
inflammatory cells from the gut are moving into
study are afraid of what it will mean to take part
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WRITTEN BY JOE STUMPE
TYSON ETIENNE
MORRIS UDEZE
PIVOT DRILLS
SHOCKERS ROLL DESPITE COACHING CHANGE, TRANSFERS AND PANDEMIC So much for freshman jitters, sophomore
And they certainly had plenty of help. Junior
“We have a lot of upperclassmen. We’ve got
slumps and “senioritis.” The Wichita State
guard Dennis Dexter’s shooting was off but he
guys that are more composed and don’t really
Shockers basketball team proved all of those
made up for that with all-conference (if not
fold under pressure, just because they’re older
college clichés wrong through the first two-
All-American) defense, usually assigned to
and more experienced.”
thirds of its 2020-21 season.
slow down the opposing team’s best player. Junior forward Morris Udeze has looked like a
Etienne attributed the quantum leap in his
The “freshman” is interim head coach Isaac Brown,
different player, powering through and around
production to rigorous off-season training,
thrust into the job when Gregg Marshall resigned
bigger opponents to give the Shockers a
when he sought to identify and then attack
under pressure. Brown had many years of
scoring threat in the low post. Freshman Ricky
any weaknesses in his game. The result is a
experience as an assistant coach but this was his
Council IV, sophomore Clarence Jackson and
physically impressive guard who’s confident
first time in charge. All he did was lead the team
juniors Isaiah Poor Bear-Chandler and Craig
shooting from the NBA three-point line or
to a 13-4 record and first place in the American
Porter, Jr. have contributed off the bench.
taking it into the lane.
Under Brown, the Shockers showed a knack for
“He’s making shots at a high clip,” Wade said.
Athletic Conference after beating Houston, the No. 6 team in the country, on Feb. 19.
winning close games and, perhaps with one
“It’s impressive to see. Tyson definitely puts in
The sophomore is Tyson Etienne. The guard
exception, never seemed to believe they were
the work. This is what he do.”
from New Jersey had a good year as a
beaten, no matter what the score.
freshman, averaging 9.4 points per game and
When the University of Central Florida did
threatening some WSU rookie records before
“We’d love to have him back (as head coach)
succeed in shutting down Etienne through
the pandemic shut down the season. But few
next year, for sure,” Udeze said.
double teams, Gilbert made the crucial shots
predicted what he’d accomplish this year,
and Dennis recorded the team’s first double-
ranking among AAC leading scorers with a 17.2
Wade said Brown was succeeding in part
average and becoming the team’s first (but not
because he hadn’t tried to radically alter
only) option in crunch time.
what the Shockers were doing, successfully,
The Shockers faced a tough stretch of games
under Marshall.
to end the regular season, partly due to
The seniors are forward Trey Wade and point
the pandemic-shuffled schedule. Whatever
guard Alterique Gilbert. Wade led the team in
“Just because (Marshall) isn’t here, doesn’t
happens,
rebounds and doing a little bit of everything else
mean the system doesn’t work,” he said. “Why
predictions of mediocrity look misguided.
while serving as the team’s “glue guy.” Gilbert, a
not roll with it?”
Udeze said the plan is to “go out, practice hard
fifth-year senior transfer from the University of
they
had
made
pre-season
every day and prove them wrong. We’re just
Connecticut, led the team in assists and steals
A pandemic and Marshall’s abrupt departure
and trailed only Etienne in scoring.
weren’t the program’s only disruptions. Eight scholarship players from last year’s squad transferred. Wade said that made for a different type of team this year.
8
double of the season.
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trying to stay locked in as a team.”
SHOCKER WOMEN SHOW RESILIENCY “Crazy, crazy, crazy.”
ASIA STRONG
“The school and the conference are doing the
One obvious bright spot for the team has
right thing to make sure we’re staying safe.”
been the play of junior forward Asia Strong,
That’s how Shockers women’s coach Keitha
who leads the team in scoring and has made
Adams sums up the 2020-21 season. And yet,
The Shockers started out 4-9, with 9 games
the AAC weekly honor roll three times. Guards
she says, “I can’t complain. It’s been the most
postponed or cancelled. “The biggest thing is
Seraphine Bastin and DJ McCarty have also
unique year I’ve ever coached.”
just the disruption and having absolutely no
made the honor roll.
flow in our season,” said Adams. Unique because in addition to keeping
Adams stressed that she’s proud of all the
track of wins and losses, there are COVID-19
Mariah McCully, named to the AAC’s all-
players, noting that some teams chose to
numbers to reflect on. Adams said players
conference third team last season, was
forfeit all their games this year rather than
and coaches had been tested about 50 times
quarantined three times for a total of 38 days.
battle through adversity and uncertainty.
through-mid February.
Adams thinks she’s had 10 players healthy and
“You’re going and testing three times a week.” Again, she’s not complaining.
able to practice together only about three or
“It’s been a struggling season in the win-loss
four times all season. Against South Florida,
column and that’s been really hard, but I have
then ranked No. 18 in the country, the Shockers
to tell you I’m very proud of our team and staff
suited up just seven players and still hung with
for just continuing to be resilient.”
the Bull for three quarters.
ON THE THE COVER: COVER: ON THE EVOLUTION OF WUSHOCK It’s been ranked one of the 10 strangest mascots
and its teams. In 1948, contests were held
in college sports — No. 5, to be specific — but
among students to design a mascot and
that just endears WuShock to Wichita State
name it. Wilbur Elsea, a junior who’d been a
fans all the more. After all, what’s puzzling to
Marine during World War II, won the design
outsiders makes perfect sense once you know
competition, while freshman Jack Kersting
the history of WuShock.
coined the name “WuShock.”
WuShock is descended from the school’s
Through the decades, various changes have
first name for its athletic teams — the
been made to WuShock’s design, but the current
Wheatshockers — back when it was still
one is close in spirit to the combative WuShock
Fairmount College in the early 1900s. The name
drawn by Elsea. As the former Marine said, “The
made sense because so much wheat was and
character should be tougher than a boot.”
is grown in the area. But the image of a shock of wheat was not considered ideal for representing the school
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WRITTEN BY JOE STUMPE
SHOCKER FANS CHEER FOR TEAM AND ITS INTERIM COACH When the Wichita State Shocker basketball
Weatherbee said fans have come up with a
Other fans echoed that, saying the Shockers’
team lost a home game earlier this season,
new way to make themselves heard.
12-4 record through mid-February, when they
Sherl Weatherbee knew just what was wrong.
were tied for first place in the AAC, was better “We bang on the seats and they make a lot of
than they expected. Seeing games in person,
“I remember reaching out to (WSU Athletic
noise,” she said. “My friends watching at home
they’ve been struck by the way the players
Director) Darron Boatright. I said we’ve got
say, ‘Keep it up, we can hear you.’ That’s going
perform for Brown, a longtime assistant pro-
to have some fans in there,” Weatherbee, a
to be the only thing I miss when the pandemic
moted to interim head coach after the depar-
longtime season ticket holder, said. “We would
is gone, banging on those seats. But I want the
ture of Gregg Marshall.
have won that game with fans.”
arena full of fans for the guys.” “I am totally surprised by their success this
She may be right. Since Sedgwick County
Weatherbee, 65, attended her first Shocker
year,” said season ticket holder Joe Johnson.
began allowing a limited number of fans to
game at the age of six months — her parents
“The team looks like they’re playing together.”
attend, the Shockers have gone 8-1 at Koch
had tickets when WSU played at The Forum
Arena, and longtime fans such as Weatherbee
downtown — and has had season tickets in
“The kids like Brown a lot,” Foust said. “He’s a
may be part of the reason.
her own name since 1975. She and her hus-
take-charge kind of guy and a player’s coach
band, Tony, generally attend every game
for sure. I hope they extend him an offer.”
As TV announcers have noted, those fans seem
with their daughter, Staycey, a former WSU
to be making a racket out of proportion to
cheerleader. Most years, they also go to
their actual numbers.
many away games. They’ve not done that this year but plan to travel to Fort Worth for the
The county began by allowing the arena to be
American Athletic Conference tournament. If
filled to 5 percent capacity, or about 525 fans.
the Shockers get an NCAA tourney bid, they’ll
Through mid-February the capacity had been
go to the site of that game, too.
increased to 25 percent, or 2,625 fans. Fans must wear masks and are spread around the
“We just feel very blessed that they allowed
arena rather than in their usual seats.
fans in” to Koch, Weatherbee said. “It’s a big deal to us. We call ourselves Shocker Nation
“Early on, it was like a preseason game, kind
for a reason. I would just like to congratulate
of quiet, but now that we’re in conference
Coach (Isaac) Brown. Most of us, we want them
games, it gets pretty loud,” said John Foust,
to take away that ‘ interim’ (coach label). We’re
a WSU grad who’s had season tickets for over
ready for it. We believe in him.”
a decade.
10
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WRITTEN BY JULIE UNDERWOOD BURTON
Walser and Wichita THE PERFECT PLACE TO BE
The Walser legacy began in 1954 at a small
Porsche, the group has been rebranded as
retail locations, you will see “5%” on the walls,
dealership in South St. Paul, Minnesota, where
the Walser Auto Campus.
on name tags and on their signs, because 5
Jack Walser and two investors purchased Peter’s Oldsmobile.
percent of pre-tax earnings is contributed to Walser is not conventional in its sales approach.
the Walser Foundation. Their motto is “Our
Adopted in 2001, all dealerships evolved from
cars drive change” and the foundation awards
Growing up in the automotive industry, Paul
a typical dealership pricing model, to a “one-
grants and sponsorships for education and
Walser, alongside his brother Andrew, naturally
person, one price” transparency model, which
career training in the communities where
stepped in to take over the franchise upon
eliminates back-and-forth negotiations in the
dealerships are located. To learn more, go to
their father Jack’s retirement in 1997. Named
sales process. According to Walser, “The set
WalserFoundation.org.
the Walser Automotive Group and based in
price approach allows the sales staff to focus
Edina, Minnesota, Paul became the CEO and
on what the customer wants and not what they
Locally, the Walser Foundation has sponsored
the company quickly grew with consolidations
want to sell for their own financial gain.”
galas and fundraisers for over a dozen non-
and
acquisitions
of
multiple
profit organizations and has supported
dealerships throughout the state.
Paul Walser recently took the helm as 2021 Chairman of the National Automotive Dealership Association (NADA). To hear his vision, go to https://youtu.be/qD10fkxlC-w
But in order to grow and because automobile manufacturers limit the representation in any given market, Walser had to make a fundamental decision about growing the company outside of Minnesota. Believing the auto industry is one where growth is critical for survival,
USD 259. Their “Driving a Stronger Community”
scholarship
program
recognizes high school seniors who give back to their communities through volunteer service and civic engagement. The $1,000 scholarship is specifically to be used for post-secondary education and has been awarded to deserving recipients at Wichita Southeast High School and Andover High School.
Walser and his team of brokers began to search for the perfect opportunity
Today, Paul serves as chairman of the
for expansion. In 2016, Walser made
Walser Automotive Group. The company
the greatest expansion at one time in
is now led by CEO Andrew Walser, after
the company history by purchasing
Paul’s retirement in 2017. Following 67
the Wichita Luxury Collection.
years in operation, the family business has grown to offer 22 distinct franchises
Why Wichita? “We knew we wanted to continue
Walser believes that communities the size of
across 25 rooftops in Minnesota, Kansas and
our journey somewhere in the Midwest,”
Wichita with people who have lived here for
Illinois. With his philosophy rooted in providing
shared Walser. “We love the Midwest way of
many years are more respectful of their ‘Walser
their customers a positive transparent sales
thinking, the integrity of the people and the
Way’ approach. He states, “We do best in an
experience, he also firmly believes in the
culture.“ Also extremely appealing to Walser
environment where people have integrity and
importance of landing in a community with
was the opportunity to suddenly get involved
stability and they respect our straightforward,
stability and integrity.
with luxury brands. Consisting of nine
transparent approach.”
brands including Acura, Audi, BMW, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, MINI and
We are thankful Walser landed right here with When you walk into any of Wichita’s Walser
WHERE TO FIND THEM 12
us in Wichita.
Walser Auto Campus 1545 N. Greenwich Road 316.221.7057 www.walserautocampus.com
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Walser Foundation
live
WRITTEN BY KAREN LONG | PHOTOS COURTESY LIZ WILLIS
‘The Smallest Step in the Right Direction’ TAKES WICHITA MOM TO THE PAR ALYMPICS AND BEYOND Liz Willis’ running career started in the early
“I refused to take a drug test,” Willis says,
When she returned to Wichita after the
2000s when she was a long-distance runner at
“because I was still addicted to narcotics from
Paralympics, Willis approached Nick Taylor
Friends University. After getting married and
the amputation three years prior.”
and Grady Landrum of Wichita Wheelchair
becoming pregnant, she would continue to
Sports and said, “I would really like to include
race in ways she could never have anticipated.
ambulatory athletes.” She worked with them to
When she lost a leg to complications of Crohn’s
rebrand the foundation and rename it Wichita
disease and pregnancy, that didn’t stop her —
Adaptive Sports. Now, in addition to wheel-
she went on to represent Team USA in the 2016
chair basketball and tennis, the non-profit
Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro and now
offers track and swimming lessons to ambula-
works with other adaptive athletes.
tory athletes and everyone comes together for the track program, which is coached by Willis.
RACING A TODDLER In 2011, after 10 days in a medically induced
ADAPTIVE ATHLETES
coma, Willis woke to find herself the mother
In 2021 Willis is looking forward to a new pro-
of a 32-week-old premature infant and her
gram launching this spring where teenaged
left leg amputated below the knee. It was six
adaptive athletes will have the opportunity to
months before she could even be fitted for a
compete in two high school track events, with
walking prosthesis. “So I had this premature
the potential of going all the way to state. That’s
child and no leg,” she remembers, “and try-
in addition to the Wichita Adaptive Sports pro-
ing to relearn how to walk, that was quite an
grams, including track practice, beginning this
adjustment. Just basic things like, your child is
month, and a potential 5K in July, depending on
in the crib crying, how do you get the baby out of the crib and into your arms?”
the public health status in the area. 12 STEPS With the encouragement of her pastor Willis
All this is in addition to being a soccer mom
But as Calum grew into a toddler, he also
signed up for a 12-step program called
to Calum, now 10, and his adopted sister,
became a source of inspiration — and Willis’
Celebrate Recovery, where she was sustained
Micah, age 4. Calum is a budding farmer who’s
first post-surgery competitor. “One of my goals
by her favorite Toby Mac quote: “Sometimes
invested in 80 chickens, which he tends on 5
was to be able to walk before my son. I beat
the smallest step in the right direction ends up
acres of land in southeast Wichita where the
him by about three months.”
being the biggest step in your life. Tiptoe if you
Willis family has made their home.
must, but take the step.” A few years later Willis strapped on her first
16
Looking back on the many steps she’s taken
running blade and was invited to participate
Finally, Willis was able to say “yes” to the USOC
over the past 10 years Willis says, “It’s all about
in a 5K race in Oklahoma City where she set
recruiter. She entered the year-and-a-half-
setting the small goals. And how I set my goals
an American record. That drew the attention of
long Paralympic program where she trained as
— I look at what obstacles are standing in my
a USOC recruiter, who approached her to train
a sprinter. In Rio de Janeiro she was the only
way, and how I’m going to overcome those
for the 2016 Paralympics in Rio de Janeiro. But
American amputee to qualify in all three sprinting
obstacles. Those become my short-term goals,
there was an obstacle.
events, the 100, 200 and 400 meters. Her strongest
and short-term goals lead up to achieving your
event was the 400 where she took sixth place.
long-term goals. “
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WRITTEN BY LAUREN BOUGHFMAN
Women’s History Month March has been declared Women’s History Month in the United States. We celebrate the power and hard work of women of the past as well as women of today, even women of our own community. Here are a few of the many hardworking, inspiring women who should be honored and recognized not only this month but throughout every day of the year. Ladies, thank you for your service and contribution to our community.
Wendy Glick
Susan Wagle
Kansas Senate President
Founder and CEO, Jenny Dawn Cellars
Wendy has worked in social services since
Susan has shattered stereotypes for women
Jenny is an entrepreneur located right here in
1998, addressing many issues in the community
since the start of her political career. In 1991
town. Many know her as the CEO and founder of
including hunger, homelessness and domestic
she was sworn into the Kansas State House
Jenny Dawn Cellars, a boutique urban winery in
violence. Within her leadership position, she
of Representatives and immediately rose to
downtown Wichita. Throughout her career, she
plays a key role in providing a vision for the work
become a key part of the Republican party,
is constantly breaking the molds constraining
of Catholic Charities, managing the day-to-day
serving as the first female speaker pro tempore
women in the world of business. Her persistent
operations as well as identifying, cultivating
in 1994. Six years later she was elected to
and determined mindset has helped her become
and soliciting major donors for capital and
the State Senate. Today, she is known as the
the successful businesswoman she is today.
annual gifts. The journey began with the start
47th Kansas Senate President, being the first
What started as a hobby evolved into something
and development of the Lord’s Diner where she
woman to ever hold that position. Throughout
much, much more, making her the first African
began as a volunteer coordinator. When asked
her political experience as well as her daily
American commercial winemaker in the state.
why she believes National Women’s History
life, Susan has stood up and fought for women
Her goal is to transform the local wine industry
Month is important, she said, “Women since the
all over Kansas. Mrs. Wagle led the fight in
and do her part in making it more inclusive and
beginning of time have had a huge impact in the
addressing and updating sexual harassment
diverse. Jenny also strives to inspire other young,
community. They have a special perspective
policies and has done her part to create a
Black and talented individuals to do what they
coming into their jobs. The compassionate and
safe environment in the State Capitol. Along
love no matter what that might be. Jenny’s story
caring tactics of women come straight from
with all of these accomplishments, Susan
is an inspiration to chase your goals and do what
their DNA. Using these gifts for good, these
is not only a fighter but a survivor. She is a
you’re passionate about.
talents cause a greater impact and make the
cancer survivor along with several of her
world a better place while doing so.”
own children. Her own life has been directly touched by healthcare challenges similar to those facing many Kansas families and she has been a leading advocate in attacking these issues. Throughout her political involvement, Susan has started many difficult conversations in the Senate and has represented her fellow Kansans in the most effective way.
22
Jennifer McDonald
Executive Director, Catholic Charities of Wichita
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play
WRITTEN BY NATASHA PARK | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL CARROLL JR.
Boost Mental Acuity, Decrease Dementia Risk ALL WHILE BURNING UP TO FIVE-HUNDRED CALORIES IN ONE SESSION?! Dance-inspired fitness classes like Zumba, DMF and Urban Groove are on the rise again. It's no surprise you'll achieve several cardiovascular and other physical benefits. Sure, you can look better in your favorite pair of jeans after a few sessions, but most important, unlike other genres of exercise, dancing boasts a decreased risk of dementia by 76 percent, according to the New England Journal of Medicine.* According to their study, dancing for maintaining mental acuity proved better than cognitive activities such as reading or doing crossword puzzles. These hidden benefits are attained when making split-second decisions while using almost every part of your body to do so. Difficult classes are better for you as they will create a greater need for new neural pathways. So don't get discouraged if you are new to a dance-inspired group fitness class; be proud to participate.
VASA Fitness Currently Hosts Favorite Local Instructor, Devin Roberts
Tips for New Class Members
Devin Roberts is an athlete, personal trainer,
1. Commit to at least three sessions.
fitness trainer, coach, model and dancer. He
Dancing isn't easy at first. Give your
holds a Masters degree in exercise science from
brain a chance to develop new neural
WSU and nine various training certifications.
pathways.
When Roberts is not training, he competes in
2. Focus on the footwork. When comfort-
bodybuilding shows, CrossFit competitions,
able, add the arm movements, then
obstacle course races and various acrobatic
the hips. After those are established
dance performances. He has performed in
try to connect those movements to
dances for ArtAid which raises money for AIDS
the emotional feel of the music.
research. He also helps run a nonprofit called Dancers for Cancer. D4C is a highly entertaining
3. There is no need to feel intimidated.
male burlesque-style performance. This group
Class members are mostly focused
raises money for local cancer patients, their
on the instructor and themselves
families and cancer research. So far D4C has
in the mirror. You can dance like
raised sixty-thousand dollars.
nobody's watching.
So who better than Devin Roberts to lead you
Most importantly have fun!
into a fitter, smarter you? For more information and inquiries on "The thing I love about Zumba, and dance
Roberts’ services go to drobfitness.com.
fitness in general, is that it is so much fun,” says Roberts. “No matter how you are feeling or what you are going through, you can't help but leave class with a huge smile on your face as well as burning a ton of calories. (Especially if you are taking one of my classes!) Also, I love how inclusive it is. No matter your level of fitness, dancing skills or age, Zumba is easy to modify to fit your needs."
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*Source: A 2003 study in the New England Journal of Medicine by researchers at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine
experts
WRITTEN BY BRUCE FERRIS, MD, AMY SPROLE, MD, AND NATALIYA BISKUP, MD
Self-Care and the Mommy Makeover: One Patient’s Story REAL PLASTIC SURGEONS. REAL RESULTS. AMY SPROLE, MD, BRUCE FERRIS, MD AND NATALIYA BISKUP, MD “This is the body I have to live in forever, and I want to love every inch of it,” explains our mommy makeover patient. Having recently had her breast augmentation and tummy tuck, we sat down with one of our real patients to share her story and real results with you. This mom of three started researching the mommy makeover after her third child. She’d had twins at 19, and she felt like her tummy stretched to the max as she created two lives at the same time. With her third child, her stomach continued to stretch. In addition, she breastfed her little ones for 30 months, causing her breasts to drastically change shape. She says she never felt confident in her body until she visited with our surgeon who made her feel safe and comfortable with her decision to proceed. She tells us the afternoon after surgery she felt sleepy and sore. After eating a salad, she took a nap. As several days passed, she says, “I felt very tight and sore in my abdomen and chest area.” She explains she was hunched over for two weeks, but she kept moving the whole time. At this point, she says, “I felt positive and excited for my results.” Graciously she explains her pain only lasted a week. She needed her husband’s help for the first two days to get to the bathroom, walk around, shower, and stay current on her pain meds. She says, “I was pretty much a newborn baby, resting and healing for two weeks. Thankfully, my mother watched my children so I could have my husband’s help whenever I needed him.” She explains her soreness was very manageable and lasted about a month. At just two weeks after surgery, she was pretty much back to normal. She was cautious about what she picked up or how hard she worked her body, but she was glad to return to ordinary household duties and taking care of her children.
BEFORE
AFTER
BEFORE BEFORE
As for her results, our mommy makeover patient explains, “I was one of the lucky ones who didn’t have to go through the ‘swell hell’ stage. I hear it can be very disappointing to deal with because you don’t get to see your results until your swelling goes away. For me, I could tell right away that my breasts had life in them again. My tummy was so tight it was like I never even had kids. It was the best feeling ever.” Our patient tells us she is incredibly happy with her results. She says, “I’ve never been so confident while being a mom. This is exactly how I imagined my body would look. My surgeon went above and beyond!” She goes on to say, “This procedure changed my life. That may sound cheesy, but it’s not. Every day I would complain to myself how much I hated my body. I knew that diet and exercise would never get rid of the skin, and this was heartbreaking. I hated looking in the mirror, I wore baggy clothes, and I avoided dressing up.” She says now she can throw on her favorite jeans without having to tuck in her loose skin. Her surgery was life changing, and she wants our readers to know the following: • Do your homework. Research plastic surgeons, ask questions, and watch videos. • It’s an absolute must to buy yourself an electric recliner. She slept in it for weeks, and it helped her stand up and sit down because she was too sore to engage her core. • Schedule the surgery. She says, “You won’t regret it. We moms deserve this. We work so hard to take care of our children that we often forget ourselves.” Ready for your mommy makeover, which may include a tummy tuck, breast procedure, and liposuction? Your first step is a consultation with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons to discuss your goals and create a plan — call 316.688.7500.
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. 26
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faces
VALENTINE’S DAY SALE Grey Boutique
Kathy and Alyssa Kissane
Jody Klein, FaithBuilder baby, Sarah, and Natasha Park
Kim Azaria and Lindsey Hall
Lugene Prior and Alyson Houlden
Lesa Dreifort, Mary Bernard and Naomi Arnold
Sarah and Faith Cooper
Lesa Dreifort and Mary Bernard
Leslie Crawford
Mary Bernard and Naomi Arnold
See More at Facebook.com/SplurgeICT 28
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30
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THE LBD, ETC. 316-440-0772
32
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GREY BOUTIQUE 316-358-0016
Location // Wichita State University Photography // Darrin Hackney Photography Models provided by // M&I Models Styling // Jody Klein
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SHOCKER STORE 316-978-7490
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FAITHBUILDERS’ BE ONE BANQUET CERTIFICATE WINNER WHITLEY, AGE 9
GAP 316-634-0225
36
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live
WRITTEN BY JULIE HYING
New Non-Surgical Weight Loss Procedure WITH DR. STEPHANIE OBERHELMAN, KANSAS SURGICAL ARTS
Losing weight is a challenge for most people.
and durable solution. People who have
coupled with a network of supportive family
It is recognized that only 10 percent of
an increase in body fat, increased waist
and friends, a person’s weight loss and
people who diet and exercise are successful
circumference
maintenance can be achieved.
long term. If medication is added, only 15
(BMI) typically between 35 and 45 may be
percent will have long-term success. Until
candidates for ESG. The procedure is for
The same technique can be used for gastric
recently, the only other option has been
those who do not qualify or do not wish to
bypass surgery patients who have gained
surgery requiring long recoveries and the
pursue weight loss surgeries like gastric
weight. Stitches are used to reduce the size
risks and complications that go along with it.
bypass or sleeve gastrectomy.
of the gastric pouch. The procedure takes less
New techniques using endoscopy provide
Multiple factors are considered before
non-surgical weight loss options. One of
offering ESG as a weight loss option.
If you or anyone you know has struggled with
those options is the OverStitch procedure
Consultation with the doctor and health
weight loss and does not want to undergo
or endoscopic suture gastroplasty (ESG).
care team is essential in determining if
surgery, then the ESG procedure may be the
An endoscope, a flexible tube fitted with a
the procedure is appropriate. The patient
optimal option for you. Although no one can
light and camera, is placed in the stomach
must be willing to commit to a healthier
guarantee any one person’s success, finding an
through the mouth. The OverStitch is a
lifestyle, be evaluated by a psychologist,
experienced health care team that can provide
special piece of equipment fitted on the
and participate in behavioral therapy when
after care and routine follow up is essential
endoscope. This allows multiple stitches
recommended.
in helping you make transformative changes
to be placed in the stomach to reduce the
as ulcer disease or a hiatal hernia, may
size. Decreasing stomach size means eating
disqualify a person from undergoing ESG.
and
body
mass
index
than an hour, and there is little to no downtime.
Certain
conditions,
such
smaller portions which then leads to weight
The Kansas Surgical Arts medical team
loss. Patients are sent home the same day
Weight loss success is improved by combining
provides support for patients every step
and experience very little downtime.
ESG with a program that includes diet and
of the way. Consultations are available by
nutritional counseling, coaching to increase
appointment at 316.573.4850.
The ESG is for patients unable to lose
activity levels and taking part in groups that
weight who are looking for a more effective
specifically address weight loss goals. When
Resources BMI calculator — Search for “Mayo Clinic BMI Calculator” OverStitch videos — On YouTube search for “OverStitch Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty”
WHERE TO FIND THEM 46
necessary to achieve your weight loss goals.
Kansas Surgical Arts 3460 N Ridge Rd #160 Wichita, KS 67205 316.573.4850 www.kansassurgicalarts.com
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dine
WRITTEN BY KIM DUGGER ATTWATER
The Greens at Terradyne Hits All the Right Marks You don’t have to be a golfer to enjoy The
Talking to Erin McRae, the club’s food and
Greens at Terradyne Country Club. The Greens
beverage director, we learned that the brisket
is the name of the new restaurant operating
sandwich is actually the top seller. It’s made
inside the country club. It opened to the public
up of smoked and coffee-rubbed beef brisket,
earlier this year and no club membership is
served on a brioche bun and topped with a
required to partake of the great food and drink
fried egg, bacon, pickled red onion, smoked
served there.
gouda cheese and barbecue sauce. That’s
WHERE TO FIND THEM
definitely something I’ll try next time. We visited on a chilly day in February, which made the huge fireplace inside all the more
The diverse menu features an array of appetizers,
wonderful. The restaurant also features a
steaks, seafood, sandwiches, pasta, salads and
spacious patio overlooking the golf course,
desserts, ranging from a charcuterie board to
which
when
a 14-ounce rib-eye topped with caramelized
temperatures warm up a bit. Views of the
shallot butter. There’s something for just about
championship golf course and the clubhouse
every age and taste. Indeed, everything we saw
itself, known locally as “the castle on the hill,”
and smelled coming out of the kitchen during
are part of the dining experience.
our visit made it a cinch that we’ll be back.
We ordered several dishes. The grilled, bone-in
Under McRae, a veteran of some of the city’s
pork chops may have been the best I’ve ever
finest restaurants, The Greens’ staff does
tasted. They’re served with mashed potatoes,
a great job of making diners feel welcome.
fried
There’s a gorgeous bar across the hall from the
I
look
Brussels
forward
sprouts
to
and
visiting
a
delicious
housemade jalapeño jam.
The Greens at Terradyne 1400 Terradyne St. Andover, KS 67002 316.425.1999 terradynecountryclub.com Hours Open for dine in and take out Tuesday–Thursday, 11 a.m.–8 p.m. Friday–Saturday, 11 a.m.–10 p.m.
main dining room that’s perfect for hanging out (there’s a happy hour 3-6 p.m., Tuesday-
Just as good were the chicken nachos, which
Friday), plus private dining rooms are available
feature chips made in-house topped with
as well. Whether your visit is for a casual family
queso, chipotle chicken, sour cream, pico de
dinner, dress-up date, group affair or business
gallo and the club’s own salsa.
lunch, The Greens is sure to satisfy.
Watch Kim Dugger Attwater’s interview with
If you would like to see your restaurant
food and beverage director Erin McRae on our
in the SPLURGE! Restaurant Spotlight,
social media and website, splurgemag.com.
48
@SPLURGEICT
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contact us at 316.267.3678.
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play
WRITTEN BY JULIE UNDERWOOD BURTON | PHOTOS COURTESY DELANO ST. PATRICK’S PARADE ASSOCIATION
ORIGINS OF ST. PADDY’S PARADES
TRADITIONS SHOW MARCH IS FOR MARCHING St. Patrick’s Day is one day of the year when
Fifth Avenue in Manhattan. Floats and cars are
everyone thinks of themselves as Irish.
banned from the procession and, in accordance
Although parades and large gatherings are
with tradition, a green line is painted along
canceled because of the pandemic, we can
Fifth Avenue to mark the route.
still observe the occasion by exploring a bit of history about how and when these Irish
The largest St. Patrick’s Day Parade in New York
celebrations, particularly the famous St.
City happened in 2002, when the parade was
Patrick’s Day parades, became popular.
dedicated to the heroes of 9/11. Over 300,000 participants marched in a ceremonial parade
St. Patrick’s Day is celebrated in more countries
as 3 million spectators watched. The entire
than any single-day celebration and spreads
parade paused for a moment of silence at
far past Ireland to cities with sparse ethnic
midday as everyone turned to the South Twin
Irish origins. History tells us the famed Irish
Tower to honor the victims of 9/11. It was also
patron, Saint Patrick, was known for bringing
the first time ever in history that the President
Christianity to Ireland. In his honor, the people
of Ireland watched the parade.
of Ireland have observed the Roman Catholic Feast Day of St. Patrick on March 17, the
Other cities tracing parade traditions to the
anniversary of his death.
late 1700s and early 1800s include Boston, Chicago, Philadelphia, Pittsburg, San Francisco,
Americans certainly have a love affair with
Savannah,
many Irish traditions stemming back to the
Francisco. Hot Springs, Arkansas is known
early 1600s. Rituals gained popularity as
as the shortest Saint Patrick’s Day Parade in
Irish immigrants asserted their cultural and
America. The route covers only a distance of
political presence and celebratory parades
98 feet and draws 30,000 spectators annually.
started cropping up. Historic records show the
However, the Guinness World Record awarded
earliest recorded St. Patrick’s Day parade was
the world’s shortest parade to a village in
held on March 17, 1601 in a Spanish colony, now
southern Ireland when residents marched
known as St. Augustine, Florida.
for only 77 feet — the distance between the
Scranton,
St.
Louis
and
San
village’s two pubs. Over the next century, particularly when Irish Catholic immigrants faced discrimination,
Much closer to home the Delano St. Patrick’s
Irishmen serving in the British military
Day Parade has historically been one of
organized their own parades, as did fraternal
Wichita’s most attended events, typically
and charitable societies. In 1848, several Irish
drawing between 10,000 and 20,000 spectators.
Aid societies united their parades to form one
This year, due to Covid, the historic streets in
official New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
downtown Delano will again be strangely quiet
Today, that parade is known as one of the
and the street lines usually painted green will
oldest civilian parades in the world and is the
remain yellow, but parade goers and event
largest parade in our country.
organizers here, as well as around the world, are hopeful this popular Irish tradition will
Since the 1850s, this famous New York City
return next year.
parade has traditionally been led by the
50
69th Infantry Regiment. An estimated 150,000
Meanwhile, don your green, raise a mug and
participants, including bands, firefighters,
chant “Sláinte!” (pronounced slawn-CHA), the
military and police groups, historically march
Irish equivalent to “Cheers.” Until we march
five hours over a 1 1/2-mile parade route on
again in 2022, luck of the Irish to you! SPLURGE! MAGAZINE // splurgemag.com
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51
home
WRITTEN BY JULIE UNDERWOOD BURTON
Because Sleep Matters! WICHITA’S ONE-OF-A-KIND COMPANY MAKES DREAMS HAPPEN
It’s all in the name: Wichita Baby Company.
postpartum doulas can also assist with light
passage. Today’s trends show, however, that
housekeeping, meal preparation, integrating
day and night postpartum support services
Owned by certified doula Sara Skiles, The
older siblings, and provide professional refer-
have been growing, especially in the past five
Wichita Baby Company and Skiles’ skilled
rals when needed. Lactation consultant ser-
years and largely in major metropolitan areas.
team of specialists are 100 percent devoted
vices are also available.
Young parents move away from the places
to providing postpartum care and support
where they grew up, and do not have many
to parents when the newborn baby comes
relatives nearby to help.
home, typically the time when infant care guidance and sleep is most critically needed.
This scenario is certainly true for the Wichita
One quote on the company’s website says it
area as Skiles states, “Almost all of our clients
all. “If you are a new parent who enjoys eat-
are people who have moved here. We only
ing, sleeping and showering, you’ve come to
occasionally serve clients who are native to
the right place.”
Wichita.” Many Wichita Baby Company clients report that they have moved here from other
“Everyone focuses on planning for the birth
major U.S. cities where night nurses and post-
and the brand-new baby. Suddenly there are
partum doulas are well-known. In Wichita,
no more meals, no visits, no flowers. Reality
Skiles’ company is the local trailblazer in offer-
sinks in and parents realize they are not
ing these services.
sleeping or showering and this new parenting experience is more difficult than they thought.
The Wichita Baby Company has a staff of
That’s when they realize they need this extra
eight close-knit, health-conscious, newborn
support,” states Skiles.
care specialists including certified postpartum doulas, registered pediatric and neonatal
Countless families have proclaimed their
nurses, lactation consultants, and childbirth
desire for help at night, when babies and
educators. During the pandemic, strict Covid
moms typically struggle with sleep patterns.
procedures are followed as staff are required
Overnight shifts begin at 9 p.m. and the night
to socially distance, wear personal protection,
doula stays all night with the baby in their
The initial consultation for Wichita Baby
remove shoes and wash hands upon enter-
nursery. The baby is brought to the mom for
Company services is a 45-minute, in-home visit
ing homes. Parents determine whether masks
breastfeeding, or the doula can bottle feed
that costs $49. Skiles personally meets the par-
are worn the entire time in the home or while
the infant, change diapers, swaddle and put
ent or parents, discusses goals, evaluates the
holding the baby.
the infant back to sleep. At 7 a.m., the baby is
nursery set-up and explains the levels of care.
ready to go and handed back into the arms of
New moms-to-be typically inquire about ser-
Wichita Baby Company offers services for
the sleep-restored, well-rested mom.
vices during the third trimester, while repeat
infants from birth to 6 months of age and
clients often call immediately upon receiving
serves the Wichita community and sur-
pregnancy results.
rounding areas. If you are expecting a
Daytime postpartum doulas support and guide the parents through the infant’s eat,
52
new baby soon, rest assured and plan for
wake, sleep cycles, and help babies settle
Persevering through endless nights with a
those well-deserved dreams by visiting
down to naps at appropriate times. The
newborn has long been a parenting rite of
wichitababyco.com.
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play
WRITTEN BY KAREN LONG
ALL ABOUT YOU. MAKE 2021 YOUR BEST YEAR.
Fitness Fresh Start It’s just two months into 2021, and 80 percent
The Pilates Restore class reduces soreness
of us have already given up on our New Year’s
in the muscles thanks to myofascial release.
resolutions, according to “U.S. News.” But March
It increases flexibility, range of motion and
is a whole new month, and any Wichitan looking
strengthening around all the joints. Other
for inspiration during the continuation — or
classes combine interval training with Pilates,
outset — of a fitness journey will find plenty of
which Moses calls “part of their special sauce.”
innovation and surprising health benefits right here in our own backyard. Here’s to working
“We have some unique formats that you will
toward better conditioning, improving energy or
not see in a traditional Pilates studio,” she says,
kick-starting weight loss, and much, much more!
“and that’s what makes us so successful really.
Fusion Pilates CLUB PILATES
Unique formats, creative sequencing, building
We have full classes here and people are lovin’ it. And feeling good, too, when they leave.”
Strength-Driven Interval Training
bone density and myofascial release are just a few appealing incentives of the fusion workouts
For people who’ve hit a plateau while trying
found at Club Pilates, which opened last year in
to lose stubborn pounds, there’s a new secret
Bradley Fair. For example, lead instructor Kim
weapon in town.
Moses describes the aptly named Reformer Flow class: “There are limited transition times, and
MADabolic, a new gym at K-96 and Greenwich,
our goal is to have one exercise after another,
focuses on carefully calculated short bursts of
constantly moving.” All while maintaining the
intensity alternating with rest periods. Although
traditional Pilates focus on core strength.
it has similarities to high-intensity interval training, owner Yvette Ysidro explains, “We’re
Classical Pilates is typically thought of as
not HIIT really. We’re more ‘time under tension.’
a somewhat functional modality, but Club
We’re all about the pace. We go slow and we
Pilates has introduced a cardio element with
are controlled. You really get that burn in the
their Cardio Sculpt class, which focuses on the
muscles you’re working.”
Springboard and traditional Pilates exercises. In
FLOW FOUNDRY
contrast to the usual silent Pilates studio, the
When you feel that burn, Ysidro says, that’s how
class makes use of music designed around the
you know your muscles are actually building
choreography, similar to a Les Mills class.
and growing. She calls the MADabolic approach, “strength driven interval training.” The sequence
Exertion and stress on working muscles is
of workouts is carefully calculated over minutes,
the force that causes them to lengthen and
hours, days and weeks to provide stimulation
strengthen in Pilates — but that’s not the only
to a variety of muscle groups and a complete
body system to benefit. Any exercise that has
workout alternating with rest periods. The
sufficient “force of impact” will also build
objective is to build power, speed, strength,
bones, according to Moses. This is an additional
endurance and athleticism.
benefit of the Cardio Sculpt class, thanks to moving the body through all planes on the
During each sequence, trainers work with
classic Reformer machine, using the resistance
members to achieve the ideal intensity target,
of springs while on your back, side or belly and
ranging from 70, 80 or 90 percent on Momentum
practicing different combinations of classical
days, 80 percent on Durability days or a full-out
and contemporary Pilates exercises.
100 percent pace on Anaerobic days.
OPTI-LIFE MIND + BODY STUDIO 54
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MADabolic opened at the end of 2020, and
TreadX Studio for running. “So think of a spin
of awkwardness in your body, that’s your brain
already they’re thinking about expansion.
studio, but with treadmills,” says Lillie.
trying to catch up with what you’re doing. Once
“It’s going so well,” says Ysidro, “hopefully we’ll
Another innovation is an app that guides
— that pathway’s been built and that’s where
have a second location and be open on the west
members through over 250 home-based online
muscle memory comes from.”
side in a year or year and a half.” At this rate it
classes, or integrates with Opti-Life’s equipment
sounds like this secret weight-loss weapon may
to track progress. “You can be more proactive
Join us in April for the next installment in this
soon be not-so-secret.
from a technology standpoint in our facility
series, where we’ll explore the topic of sleep and
than you can in any other facility in town.”
how to be more refreshed, calm and clear in 2021!
you get good at it you’re not awkward anymore
The Blue Zones
Aerial Yoga and Aerial Silks
“If you want to live a long life you’ve got to treat the body well and treat the mind well,” says Matt
If you want to take your yoga practice to new
Lillie, co-owner at Opti-Life. “It’s not just about
heights, or build strength and endurance while
working out — that’s one part of being fit, but
practically floating in midair, Flow Foundry
really it’s about, ‘What are you doing to take
will bring a whole new level of creativity and
care of yourself?’ ”
excitement to your workout.
Opti-Life is a “Vitality Club + Spa” near Woodlawn
Both aerial yoga and aerial silk classes take
and 13th offering rejuvenation and functional
place while hanging from the 18-foot tall ceilings
nutritional in addition to a complete complement
in the Flow Foundry space on south Meridian.
of workout systems and over 100 fitness classes.
Owner Christina Duncan, who also teaches classes at Opti-Life, explains the difference
The inspiration behind Opti-Life comes from
between the two.
research into the “Blue Zones,” a study of regions around the world whose citizens live to
Aerial yoga focuses on the therapeutic side —
a vibrant and active advanced age. “The people
mindfulness and breathing with the moves, all
who lived the longest, the happiest, had certain
while suspended in an aerial hammock. She
common traits, including their purpose, their
says, “It’s a very large piece of strong fabric
community, movement and moderate eating,”
that you can sit in like a swing.” Aerial silks, on
says Lillie. “It’s whole-person centered.”
the other hand, are two lengths of long fabric
MADABOLIC
hanging side by side, which you “climb up tall Mindfulness, community and purpose are
and make the beautiful poses.”
central at Opti-Life, and that’s expressed in part through a wide variety of yoga classes,
This fun, playful approach to fitness gives
including restorative, Vinyasa flow, couples’
Flow Foundry students a boost of confidence
yoga and warm yoga, in the dedicated Mind +
that keeps them engaged in their practice
Body Studio. “Yoga originally wasn’t an exercise
and eagerly anticipating the next lesson. With
for the body, it was an exercise for the mind and
classes for ages 7 on up, beginners are welcome
the spirit,” says Lillie.
and Duncan says, “If you practice once a week you can make progress in a surprisingly short
Opti-Life boasts six studios altogether, including
amount of time. In 6 to 12 weeks people are
a Pilates Reformer Studio; a Cycle Studio; an
really impressing themselves.”
Opti-Fit Studio for HIIT workouts and a GroupX room featuring BodyPump, RPM and CXWorx
During that time students are building entirely
classes by Les Mills. They also have a unique
new neural pathways. “When you feel that bit
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play
Spring Break ICT WRITTEN BY LAUREN BOUGHFMAN
March 7, 2021 marks the one-year anniversary of Covid-19 in Kansas. On this day the first case was introduced to the state. Little did we know what, exactly, this would evolve into. Almost a year later, our daily lives have yet to return to normal. Still, there’s always something to look forward to. The days are getting longer and the weather is slowly but surely getting warmer. Luckily spring is right around the corner — and along with this comes spring break. Yes, this year’s break might look different from years past, but there are still so many great options available to you and your family. Take a breath and create your own adventure right here in Wichita.
Spring Break Doesn’t Mean Breaking the Bank In need of ideas on where to go and what to do? Plan local! A memorable spring break does not require an extravagant getaway. There are plenty of family-friendly attractions right around the block. Here are a few affordable
our surrounding businesses have also been impacted by Covid-19. Flexing your shopping dollars is one of the easiest and most effective ways to show your support. In times like these, a little goes a long way. Here are just a few out of a long list of locally owned businesses available to you right at home:
options for all ages:
Shop
Get competitive at one of the many indoor/
• Old Town Farm & Art Market
outdoor entertainment facilities Wichita has
• Paramount East Antique Mall
to offer including:
• The Farris Wheel Candy Co.
• Chicken N Pickle
• Assistance League of Wichita thrift shop
• Dave & Buster’s • The Alley Indoor Entertainment • All Star Adventures and All Star Sports If the sun is shining, look to one of these activities to fill your itinerary and spend some
• The Popcorner • The Workroom • Colour t-Hair-apy Salon & Oxygen Bar • Urban Interiors • Camp Creek Vintage
Dine
time outdoors: • Stearman Field Bar & Grill • Bike Share ICT
• Ziggy’s Pizza
• Botanica, The Wichita Gardens
• Little Lion Café
• Sedgwick County Zoo
• Picasso’s Pizzeria
• Tanganyika Wildlife Park
• HomeGrown Wichita
• Old Cowtown Museum
• Doo-Dah Diner
• Golf courses
• Peace Love & Pie
Support Local Another way to fill up your spring break is exploring the city. This is the perfect time to try new things and experience all that Wichita has to offer. Sampling a new restaurant or shopping a new store can be an adventure, and a great chance to explore and support local businesses. This past year, just like you,
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• Harvest Kitchen | Bar • Reverie Coffee Roasters • River City Brewing Co. So much has changed in a year, while many things have stayed the same. The pandemic did not shut down the city. There are so many safe ways to spend your spring break right in the heart of ICT. Just don’t forget to wear your mask!
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home
WRITTEN BY JULIE HYING | PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY MARY TERHUNE
Springtime Blossoms in Glorious Gardens
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A garden often involves planning, preparation
There are a variety of ways to approach bed
be uniquely tiered to save space while main-
and design. Some seed selection, pre-planting
design. Step one is choosing a location that
taining adequate drainage.
and indoor cultivation will begin as early as
offers plenty of sunlight. Some opt for tradi-
January. Many invest in small plants at a local
tional rows planted in the ground somewhere
Upper tiers also allow low-lying plants like
garden center closer to the early spring when
in the yard or utilize pots on a porch or deck
lettuce and peppers to remain easily accessi-
the planting season begins. What you choose
area. Other gardeners prefer raised planting
ble while lower boxes provide ample room for
to grow depends on several factors: what you
boxes that offer unique advantages. Like in-
tomatoes and other tall plantings to stretch
and your family like to eat, what space you
ground gardens, raised planting boxes can be
and flourish. Cucumbers and other vine veg-
have available for planting and how much gar-
placed parallel to one another, be staggered
etables may like a planted lattice to climb as
den space you wish to maintain.
with floral blooms such as rose bushes, or can
they grow.
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Various materials can create this look, for
evenings. Established and larger vegetation
example 2-by-10 wooden boards or discarded
may only require one good soak per day, while
railroad ties. The base of each bed should
newer and smaller plants may need multiple,
contain a weed barrier, either purchased or
lighter waterings.
something that disintegrates eventually such as cardboard. The boxes are then filled with
Fragrant herbs, planted in May, do well in
soil or perhaps half full with mulch first, then
flower pots. Rosemary, dill, chives and other
covered with a nutrient-rich dirt.
herbs are aesthetically pleasing, aromatic and add flavor and variety to cooked and
Beside creating an interesting focal point in
fresh dishes. Rosemary, among others, can
the landscape, raised beds allow for easier
be dried and enjoyed throughout the fall and
picking of fruits and vegetables rather than a
winter months.
far reach to the ground for harvesting and bed maintenance. They also keep small animals
Avid gardener and culinary enthusiast, Mary
like rabbits from feasting on the delights of the
Terhune, shares some of her favorite aspects
garden. Only twelve inches of height is enough
of gardening. “With a coffee in hand, I like to
to deter the bunnies.
inspect my plantings and survey the area early in the morning. Then watering begins. About
By St Patrick’s Day celebrations, cold weather
30 minutes before sunset, I return to the gar-
plants such as potatoes, cabbage, broccoli,
den, consider the peaceful nature all around
and cauliflower will be added to the pre-
and check to be sure the plantings are well
pared earth. Veteran gardeners know to turn
watered.” She loves that she is showing her
their garden beds, often adding a homemade
kids how to grow their own food while teach-
or purchased compost or a good soil like
ing them something they can enjoy later in life.
Miracle Grow to renew and enrich the earth prior to planting.
Some of her garden creations include homemade salsa and marinara sauce. “Garden picks
Compost ICT is owned and operated by Wichita
add so much flavor to whatever you happen
native, Travis Folds, also a chef and garden
to be cooking. Peppers, cucumber or onion
enthusiast. Some call on the company to share
can enhance a simple lettuce or pasta salad.
compostable waste as a way to preserve the
Sometimes there is a sparse yield of veggies.
earth. Others give their compost to Folds to
So instead of waiting for more to grow, I may
have him compost it on a farm and return it
just gather what is available, ocra, green beans,
to them enriched, broken down and ready for
a pepper, whatever, and sauté with olive oil to
use in their home gardens. For a nominal fee,
create a veggie stir fry.” She advises people to
Compost ICT gives customers a 5-gallon plastic
see what is plentiful in their gardens and plan
bucket to fill throughout the week, returning
meals around availability rather than look at
on Monday to pick up the contents and provid-
the week ahead with preconceived ideas.
ing a new bucket for the coming week. Her advice to those new to gardening? By early May, some of these foods will be
Start with a few staples that you love to
ready for harvest and others just on the verge
eat. Consider a few pots of favorite herbs.
of being planted. Lettuce, peppers, okra, green
Experiment with each new growing season to
beans and tomato plants begin to grace garden
add variety and interest. Be willing to consult
spaces for their growing time. Generally in our
with other gardeners for advice or rely on gar-
area, the growing season extends from March
den centers for their expertise. But mostly,
through late August or even early September,
have fun and enjoy gardening with anyone
depending on the year and the weather.
willing to share in the experience.
Gardeners monitor their plantings and beds diligently, watching for weeds and maintaining an adequate amount of moisture in the soil to sustain plants throughout the midday sun and on into the sunbaked Kansas afternoons and
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WRITTEN BY AMY PALSER
The TLC Circle
CARING FOR PATIENTS, CARING FOR NURSES
“Making lives better” is more than just a
Caring for those with cancer, Parkinson’s, COPD,
addressing mental health issues, employee
mission statement for Home Health & Hospice
dementia and other chronic diseases is not for
ultimate challenges like setting weight-loss
of Kansas — it’s a philosophy that permeates
the faint of heart. Houk said that’s why looking
and health goals, and meet-ups with a social
everything from patient care to staff education
out for staff members’ physical and emotional
worker so employees can talk through issues
to workplace happiness. “My team truly
needs is an important piece of the puzzle. She
and challenges. When staff members are well
lives our mission statement every day,”
is happy to say that the company had only a 1.8
cared for, Houk said, they can take better care
administrator Ann Houk of Wichita said.
percent loss in staff in 2020. “Most of my staff
of their patients.
have been here for three years or longer, and Home Health & Hospice of Kansas offers
at least a quarter of my staff have been here
Continuing education for staff members is
in-home services and hospice care 24 hours
over five years,” she said. “My staff are very
another goal for Home Health & Hospice,
a day, 365 days a year. CEO Anthony Ndungu
experienced. They’re amazing.”
like physical therapists who are Parkinson’s specialists and nurses who are wound
started the company in 2013; today it serves nearly 400 patients with a staff of around 90
When schools closed for quarantine last
certified. “One of the things I like is that right
in Wichita and the surrounding communities.
spring, Houk stood to lose staff members who
now, almost 100 percent of my clinical field
“We’re
mom-and-pop
needed to stay home with their children. But
staff are dementia certified,” Houk said. “We
company,” Houk said. “Anthony started the
the group sprung into action, making a large
know how to talk to, respond to, and handle
company thinking about the kind of care he
conference room into a socially distanced
dementia patients.”
wanted for his mom. He’s a nurse and he’s
classroom for children of employees. “I was
compassionate and caring. He really serves
able to retain nine staff members because of
Home Health & Hospice’s goal is keeping aging
and cares about the staff.”
that,” Houk said.
patients in one place by assisting in any stage
That goes for big things as well as the little
They also opened up a food pantry for staff
of-life hospice care. With caretakers who are
things, Houk said — like two therapy puppies
and patients. “Basically we went on a shopping
skilled, kind and dedicated, Houk said, that
that hang out in the office and have started
spree and filled a pantry area and staff could
goal is achievable. “Each one of my nurses is
going to patients’ homes. Ila the Boston terrier
come and get any food they wanted or needed,
so knowledgeable, caring and compassionate
and Oreo the golden doodle love to spend time
no questions asked,” she said.
with what they do. ‘Making lives better’ is our
a
locally
owned
of care, from early disease treatment to end-
mission statement, and every one of them
with the staff, even napping on their desks. And they are a bright ray of sunshine and source of
They hold special staff events such as a just-
delight to patients. “Animals bring happiness
for-fun weekly Zoom call with interactive
and joy no matter what,” Houk said.
games like Jeopardy, their own podcast
WHERE TO FIND THEM
Home Health &
Hospice of Kansas 7607 E. Harry St. Wichita, KS 67207 316.869.0015
Call for a free in-person or phone consultation or to start services. Most insurances accepted. 70
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does that every day.”
PHOTOS FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: CEO ANTHONY NDUNGU HOLDS THERAPY DOG ILA, THERAPY DOG OREO, ADMINISTRATOR ANN HOUK WITH A PATIENT’S GRANDSON, STAFF MEMBERS AT A RECENT EVENT
expert
A Rug for Every Room BY NAHID HOLMES | DESIGN SOURCE INTERIORS
Since a rug serves to anchor the room, the color and style of your rug can establish the mood. From artisan-crafted, high-low pile rugs to stunning, worry-free rugs for high traffic, we have hundreds of indoor rugs that can anchor any room in style!
Dining Room Your chairs need to slide in and out comfortably, so you should add 24 to 30 inches to each side of the table for the perfect rug size. If your table has extensions or leaves, take measurements with them in place so you’ll have a large enough rug regardless of the size of your dinner party.
Here are some design tips! Living Room This rug needs to complement your furniture. To create an inviting, complete feel, choose a rug large enough for your furniture to sit on.
Bedroom There’s nothing better than hitting the warm, soft surface of a rug when you roll out of bed in the mornings. To create a cozy border, allow an additional 30 inches on each side of the bed. From there the size of the rug can vary depending on how much or little flooring you’d like to see.
imagine the possibilities
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FULL INTERIOR DESIGN SERVICES INCLUDING: Furniture • Accessories • Large Rug Selection • Custom Window Treatments • Bedding • Art
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316.733.7080 WEATHERSTONE VILLAGE 736 N. ANDOVER RD., ANDOVER KS
Call or visit our showroom today to schedule your in-home consultation.
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