SPLURGE!316 February 2022

SPLURGEMAG.COM

FEBRUARY 2022

Meet The Meitzners Wichita’s Sweetest Couple

IN THIS ISSUE:

Opera Man The Date Maven ‘Iconic Eats of Wichita’

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FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

The market is HOT and Buyers need a Realtor who can get their offer accepted.

Call Amelia, Deb or Katie - we’ll help you find your dream home!

Deb Gardner

316-734-2511 dgardner@plazare.com

Katie Hill Leiding 913-956-9233 katie@plazare.com

©2021 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

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NOTES FROM THE

Publisher & Staff

What’s your ideal Valentine’s gift: chocolate, flowers or jewelry?

Jody Klein

Esther Mollhagen, CPA

Lauren Boughfman WRITER 1 YEAR WITH SPLURGE!

WRITER 6 MONTHS WITH SPLURGE!

Flowers die and chocolate melts, but jewelry reminds you of the giver every time you wear it. I inherited my love of shiny things from Mom – she wore gold lamé slippers when she was 81.

Sparkle is my love language!

I think I’ll go with jewelry – no calories and lasts a long time!

I think a bouquet of flowers makes the perfect Valentine’s Day gift. As simple as it seems to be, flowers are a thoughtful and meaningful gift.

Nothing makes me feel more like a giddy elementaryschooler than some gorgeous, fragrant flowers. This simple and understated token from hubby is a welcome and lovely Valentine’s Day gift.

PUBLISHER AND PRESIDENT 14 YEARS WITH SPLURGE!

CHIEF ACCOUNTANT 12 YEARS WITH SPLURGE!

@splurgeict splurgemag.com

12828 E. 13th N., Wichita, KS 67230 316.267.3678 Publishing Company Owners

Publisher and President

Graphic Design

Inspired Koncepts, Inc. Dr. Terry and Jody Klein Dr. Dennis and Ann Ross Steve Ruud Jody Klein - jody@splurgemag.com

Associate Publisher

Kelsey Ralston - kelsey@splurgemag.com

Editors

Karen Long - proofing@splurgemag.com Amy Palser - amy@splurgemag.com

Account Executives

Kim Azaria - kim@splurgemag.com Debi Devor - debi@splurgemag.com

Accounting

Alexis Evans

Mitch Gee

Contributing Writers

Lauren Boughfman, Julie Underwood Burton, Alexis Evans, Julie Hying, Karen Long, Amy Palser,

Guest Columnists

Guy Bower, Nataliya Biskup, Nahid Holmes, Gregory Lakin, Joseph Spaniol, Amy Sprole, Randy Yeisley

Editorial Photography Fashion Photography Local Faces Photography

Michael Carroll Jr. Tobie Andrews Photography Michael Carroll Jr., Maggie Marshall

Firm of Esther M. Mollhagen, CPA

*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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FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

Call our team for a strategic approach to your real estate goals

KELLY KEMNITZ & ASSOCIATES

Home

There’s No Place Like

FEATURES

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

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Every milestone in the 41-year marriage of Pete and Suzi Meitzner has been interwoven with a rich tapestry of family and friends, grounded in friendship and humor.

Here they share a few of their favorite stories.

Snapping the best smiles in ICT for over 20 years, Tobie Andrews has documented Wichitans of all ages and life stages, from weddings and engagements to architecture and real estate – plus an abundance of kidcentered events.

Wichita’s Sweetest Couple

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Tobie Andrews Photography

Opera Man After 15 years of living in Germany and conducting in opera houses across Europe – the “fountainhead” of music – Whitney Reader is coming home to Wichita as general director and music director of Wichita Grand Opera.

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‘Iconic Eats of Wichita’ Joe Stumpe brings a wealth of experience writing about local cuisine, chefs, restaurants and food trends to his latest book, “Iconic Eats of Wichita.” He reveals legendary ICT recipes and so much more, including history, stories and culture.

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The Date Maven Handmade valentines worked in elementary school, but finding romance and a life partner are a little more complicated for adults. Enter The Date Maven founder, Suzanna Mathews, offering matchmaking services and relationship coaching.

Special Double-Cover Edition!

HIGHLIGHTS 16 - “Amelia’s Tuesday Tips” Go Viral 58 - Expressions of Love 60 - Sherry, The Noble Wine of Spain

ON THE COVER

Suzi and Pete Meitzner Photographer: Tobie Andrews Location: Love of Character 6

ON THE BACK COVER

Whitney Reader Photographer: Kinga Karpati Location: Polish National Opera, Warsaw

FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

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Wichita’s Sweetest Couple

Suzi’s high-school graduation photo

Pete’s high-school graduation photo.

“The ‘swoop’ was in!”

Pete and Suzi Meitzner Written by Karen Long

Ask this couple about milestones in their long journey together and it soon becomes clear that their marriage is deeply interwoven with a rich tapestry of family and friends – and even got an assist at times from members of that community nudging them together. Pete and Suzi Meitzner, who celebrated their 41st anniversary last year, were each born and raised in Wichita. Their love story includes a wealth of classic ICT businesses, people and landmarks, all intertwined with a relationship grounded in friendship and humor.

A Special Graduation Gift Pete and Suzi met in high school at Kapaun Mt. Carmel, where they shared many common friends. “His friends were my friends, and mine were his, and we all just knew each other,” Suzi says.

“Those people are still great, great friends,” adds Pete.

The two dated for a while in high school, but then “college happened.” Suzi set off for K-State while Pete attended Wichita State University. They kept in touch through the years, and when Suzi graduated she landed a teaching job at Griffith Elementary, bringing her back to her hometown.

Both Pete and Suzi came from large, active families – Pete 8

is the oldest of seven and Suzi the youngest of five – who loved to spend time at Grand Lake. Water skiing was a major pastime and when Suzi graduated from college her dad, (perhaps with a hidden agenda) called Pete and requested his help with a special graduation gift for his daughter.

“He wanted to buy all new water-ski equipment for me,” Suzi explains.

Pete continues the story: “My uncle at the time – Dick Curry – was an executive at Coleman, which had acquired O’Brien Watersports. I went to the Coleman Factory Outlet and bought skis, gloves, rope, a new jacket, the whole thing.”

Opening her graduation gift, surrounded by family, Suzi was stunned. “Dad! How did you know what to get?”

“Oh, I called Pete Meitzner,” her dad said.

It wasn’t long before Suzi reconnected with Pete and they were soon “officially dating.” That very Christmas season the couple got engaged, and were married the next summer on June 21, 1980. Throughout their relationship Grand Lake has continued to play a major role as the setting for long weekends and vacations, a place to unwind with brothers and sisters or friends. Eventually their own children, Erich, now 27, and Natalie, 26, were added to the circle.

FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

Early Careers and Politics Even though Pete was student body president at Kapaun, foreshadowing later political involvement, his early career went in another direction, something he calls “trying to get into the entrepreneur business.” The couple partnered with Dan Carney, Pizza Hut founder and local legend. They invested in some Florida franchises, and over the years moved around the country chasing various entrepreneurial pursuits. Along the way Pete gained expertise dealing with local, state and federal governments connected to the telecom business.

Even though they lived around the country in West Palm Beach; Scottsdale, Arizona; and Dallas, Texas, Pete says, “We never lost our roots here in Wichita because our family was still here.

I had my Shocker season basketball tickets that whole time and gave them away to my brother.”

When Erich and Natalie were about 6 or 7, the Meitzners sold their business, returned to Wichita, and quickly re-established their lives here, becoming involved with their church, Kapaun and WSU. In 2011 locals started approaching Pete, insisting that the city needed somebody with a business background in government. Pete ran for City Council, served as a Council member for seven years, and later became a Sedgwick County Commissioner where he still holds a seat.

“A lot of politicians are in office because they have a passion about something,” Pete says, “My passion is just to make the community better.”

During those years Suzi continued teaching, then stayed home with Erich and Natalie through elementary school, and finally worked for the Catholic Diocese for 11 years until recently retiring.

Cero’s Chocolates and a Block of Salt The last two years have provided plenty of opportunities for Pete and Suzi to lean on one another. “Covid has been difficult,” Pete says. “There have been a handful of times where I would be upset and Suzi would really ground me, so I’m able to compartmentalize.”

Suzi says of Pete: “He has a great sense of humor, that’s for sure. I think we both do, and that attracted us to each other.

We’re a little bit crazy in a good way.”

One story that’s become part of the family lore goes back to their college days. Unbeknownst to Suzi, Pete was in touch with her family while she was away at K-State. Suzi explains, “One Christmas Mother opened a box; it was a box of Cero’s chocolates and when she passed it around, we’re all like, ‘Who got you Cero’s?’ And she said, ‘Well, Pete Meitzner.’ ” Suzi’s father quipped, “Oh, he’s saltin’ the cow to get the calf.” When everyone looked puzzled he explained that, on the farm, when farmers want the calves to come in, they set out a block of salt to attract the mother cow and the calf follows her in.

“I just thought it was so funny he was doing that.” Suzi laughs. “One year, after we were married, Pete bought my mom a salt block and wrapped it up in Christmas paper. My whole family already knew about it, so when she opened it we all burst out laughing. He got the cow and the calf.”

“We’re fortunate to have these big families,” says Pete.

“You don’t have choices with family so we’re lucky to have very, very great families.”

Suzi finishes the thought: “Family and friends, and our faith.”

Pete’s family of seven kids. He is the oldest on the far right.

Suzi is the youngest of five, pictured on the far right.

Natalie, Erich, Pete and Suzi

FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

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NEW YEAR’S EVE BASH Crestview Country Club

Bob and Linda Nugent, Gerry and Ann Estep

Back row: Lisa Anderson, Bridgette Kappelman, Emily Johnsrud, Jenny Leiker, Kristi Hall, Mary Billings Front row: Sheri Love, Alison Moore, Lindsey Walter, Becca Henry

Megan and Christopher Watson, Scott and Tiffany Sutherland

Nicole and Zach Cooper

Stacey and Don Cary, Shannon and Kelli Grate

Terry and Jody Klein, Lance and Andrea Dixon, Dawn Dowers, Lindsey Hall, Curtis Zerr, Naomi Arnold, Dean Zook

Wes and Becky Good, Kim and Brad Moses

Todd Truitt, Scott Afman, Travis Sears, Tony Hayes, Brett Ruggles

Tony and Mimi Wakim, Gregg Vance, Sherry Knox, Christian Kentling, Denise Alexander, Susan Thornton, Pat Nieman

Ruben and Sarah Vieyra, Christina and Jon Rainbolt, Rachel Rainbolt, Angie and Jeff Granger

Airin Rhinehart, Jennifer Ruggles, Kristi Truitt, Shawne Boyd, Kari Sears, Mercedes Hayes, Stephanie Afman, Lauren Brown

Sean Miller, Kenny Moses, Sam Scharenberg

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FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

Let’s make 2022 great!

Now is absolutely the best time to buy and sell!

I’d love to add you to my list of satisfied clients!

2114 N Clear Creek Ct - $1,798,000 4330 N 247th St W, Andale - $825,000 4740 N Portwest Ct - $725,000 13616 W Verona Ct - $619,900 1818 S Horseback St - $511,232 424 N Herrington St - $438,500 1202 N Shefford - $400,000 4914 N Portwest Cir - $389,500 1631 N Blackstone Ct - $387,890 251 N Dellrose Ave - $375,000 6 S Drury Ln, Eastborough - $374,900 1712 S Butternut St - $359,000 1211 S Siena Ct - $364,900 2845 E Mantane Cir - $337,701 14314 E Brookline Ct - $319,900 428 N Jaax Ct - $300,000 6226 W 34th Ct N - $299,900 2615 W Keywest Ct - $295,000 4110 N Rutgers Ct - $289,900 2200 W 60th St N - $289,900 6105 W Kollmeyer Ct - $268,775 1426 N Bellick St - $249,900 1051 N 119th Ct W - $249,500 1219 W Riverside Ave - $239,900 345 S Belmont St - $239,900

0 SE 90th, Murdock - $239,000 13718 W Autumn Ridge St - $235,000 1543 N Aksarben St - $225,000 7302 SW Overland Trail Rd, Andover - $225,000 1823 N Topaz St - $224,900 1628 N Harlan Ave - $209,000 904 Southwind Cr, Goddard - $195,000 1129 N Bitting Ave - $193,000 1124 W Franklin St - $178,000 203 N Lee St, Clearwater - $172,500 2025 N Boradmoor St Apt 181 - $170,000 2204 W Manhattan Dr - $169,800 6007 E Jacqueline St - $169,500 232 S Bleckley Dr - $168,500 215 N Marlen Dr, Haysville - $164,900 1202 N Pinecrest St - $160,000 812 E English Ct, Derby - $152,500 307 S Maple Ln - $147,500 3906 W 20th St N - $138,500 137 N Meridian Ave - $120,000 1210 N Forest Ave - $112,000 421 W Davis Rd, Valley Center - $109,900 500 N Meridian Ave, Valley Center - $97,000 1306 W Dallas St - $84,000

Call me today to discuss your real estate needs! Let’s get started!

Alissa Unruh

FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

Realtor, ABR, GRI, CRS J.P. Weigand & Sons, Inc. Direct: 316.650.1978 aunruh@weigand.com www.AlissaUnruh.com

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MONEY MAT TERS Be Ready for Spring Storms

After 33 years of loyalty to Allstate Insurance, I sold my agency and bought a franchise from We Insure. I have multiple A+ companies to give a range of options to my clients. Spring will be here soon – don’t be caught with partial repairs when you think you have 100 percent replacement cost. Verify with your current insurance company that they will pay for 100 percent of your roof and siding if you have partial damage. You might be shocked to find out that they will pay only for the damage on your roof. With my carriers, they will repair 100 percent if you have partial damage.

Here are some important coverages to have: HOME INSURANCE Loss forgiveness and decreasing deductibles replaces the whole roof, siding and painting of home.

EARTHQUAKE INSURANCE (My old company didn’t have that coverage.)

AUTO INSURANCE Accident forgiveness and decreasing deductible.

It’s a good time to review your insurance because the cost of goods sold has increased so much. It is very important to shop around every two years if a company has had major rate increases.

Contact me if you’re buying a home or refinancing your existing home.

Ross Viner is an independent agency owner with We Insure. He’s an LUTCFdesignated insurance advisor with over 40 years experience, licensed in home, auto, health and life insurance. Call or email him for a review at 316.600.0520 or ross.viner@weinsuregroup.com 12

Mortgage Options at Home Bank & Trust Co.

Life-Centered Financial Planning

CONVENTIONAL FIXED-RATE LOANS A conventional fixed-rate loan is the most popular type of home mortgage. Since the interest rate does not vary, monthly payment for principal and interest stays the same.

I start to get really tired of the cold weather about this time of year and wish the long, cold winter was over. Thankfully, planning for a good summer trip gets me through. When I design a vacation for my family, I want to make sure that it will be a great one and that takes time!

ADJUSTABLE RATE MORTGAGES (ARM) Rates are adjusted at a specific time each year. A five-year ARM, for example, has a fixed rate for 60 months and will then change every 12 months. Changes are tied to an index such as a one-year LIBOR index rate, and all of our ARMs have periodic or lifetime rate caps.

FEDERAL HOUSING ADMINISTRATION (FHA) LOANS An alternative to conventional mortgage insured loans, FHA loans offer more lenient lending requirements, often making qualification easier. FHA offers both fixed-rate and adjustable-rate mortgages.

VETERANS ADMINISTRATION (VA) LOANS The VA loan program was created by the federal government to assist U.S. service men and women who might not qualify for a conventional mortgage. VA loans are available only to veterans.

CONSTRUCTION LOANS You can build your own home with a construction loan from Home Bank & Trust Co. Call us for details.

REFINANCES CASH-OUT/STRAIGHT REFINANCE Borrow up to 90 percent of your home’s value to access money for remodeling, debt consolidation or major purchases. Homeowners qualify based on their home’s value through a conforming conventional fixed-rate 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.

FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

There’s nothing wrong with planning a great vacation, but at some point, we’ve got to put in the time toward planning for our financial future. What kind of life do we want to have? For me, it was a new career. For you, it might be more about slowing down, new hobbies, spending time with family and friends, traveling or just enjoying life.

Being a guide toward living the life you want to live without fear of running out of money is what I have done for my family, and it is what I want to do for yours. I call this life-centered financial planning because it puts life at the center of your financial plan. I do this because life is not a rehearsal. So, what do you want to do with the time you have left? Money is an integral part of our planning, but helping you have a great “return on life” is the most important.

Contact Lyndon Zielke at 316.535.0750 or lyndon@leadingedgefp.com to learn more about how we can put our planning tools and expertise to work for you. Leading Edge Financial Planning, LLC, is a Registered Investment Advisory firm and is registered with the states of Kansas and Colorado.

5 Area Branches With 2 Convenient Wichita Locations to Serve You. Are you thinking of buying a new home or selling your current home? Looking at refinancing? You need a lender you can trust!

Check out our expert column in Money Matters on Page 12.

Make Home Bank and Trust your first call for a no-obligation consultation and see why so many people choose our team. You're going to feel right at home with Home Bank and Trust because we don't have customers, we have family.

Meet the Home Bank and Trust Lending Team

Brian Sandberg

Wichita East (316) 686-5000 Brian@homebank-trust.com

Mai Schendel

Wichita East (316) 686-5000 Mai@homebank-trust.com

East Wichita (316) 686-5000 1409 N. Greenwich · Wichita, KS 67206

Jeff Rathbun

Wichita East (316) 773-6000 Jrathbun@homebank-trust.com

West Wichita (316) 773-6000 10421 W. Central · Wichita, KS 67212

Visit us at www.homebank-trust.com to learn more

Written by Randy Yeisley | Yeisley Financial Group

Looming Market Crash?

We are living in a time of great turmoil and financial uncertainty. At the same time, we are experiencing social unrest, downright political hatred, rising inflation, shortages of goods and services, and a general disruption to normal life due to the ongoing pandemic. In spite of all of this, the stock market has somehow managed to continue to grow at significant levels. But, how long is this growth really sustainable?

are definitely facing many potential changes this year. It makes a lot of sense to take a defensive approach in your investment strategy this year as we face so many unknowns. You need to understand exactly how volatile your current portfolio style is and you need to stress-test your current portfolio to determine how much you stand to lose if we have a market crash in the near future.

It Feels Like 1999 Again Prior to the dot-com crash of 2000 to 2002, there was almost a euphoria around investing in technology companies. Investors were in a buying frenzy of internet companies that had never made a profit, but their stock prices were skyrocketing. Sound familiar? It is certainly starting to feel a lot like 1999 all over again. Just take a look at the graph (right) showing the historical price of the Nasdaq, which is where many technology companies are traded. You can see the spike in growth of the Nasdaq in the late 1990s and then the crash that occurred in the first three years of the 2000s. In fact, the Nasdaq lost 75 percent of its value during the dot-com crash. Now, here we are again. The Nasdaq has grown 138 percent over the past three years alone and we appear to be in another buying frenzy of Big Tech companies. How long can this continue? It is quite likely that the current bull market frenzy will run out of steam soon. Have you evaluated your portfolio to see if some changes are appropriate? If not, you should.

Be Cautious in 2022 While no one can predict where the financial markets are headed, it would appear that we are facing some serious challenges to continued growth in 2022. We have a president and vice president with the lowest approval ratings in decades. We have midterm elections this year.

The Democrats have all but conceded that they will lose control of the House and probably the Senate in the next election. The Fed has hinted that there may be as many as four interest rate hikes this year as they try to control the highest inflation in 40 years. The pandemic is still lingering with new variants after two years. The financial markets generally don’t respond well to change and we 14

Nasdaq

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Bottom Line Both fear and greed are powerful emotions and you should not make important, long-term financial decisions based on any emotion. A trusted advisor can help you make decisions that are logical and prudent in turbulent times. There is no perfect financial product, but there are certainly some financial tools that are available today that can help protect you from market crashes. If you aren’t sure how much risk you are taking in your portfolio, now is the time to find out and make changes to protect against future market losses. Once you have taken the proper precautions to protect your portfolio, you should be able to rest in spite of future market turmoil.

FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

Randy Yeisley is a local independent investment advisor and is the founder and president of Yeisley Financial Group, Inc., located in northeast Wichita. He can be reached by emailing advisor@yeisleyfinancial.com or by calling 316.719.2900.

With

Amelia Sumerell

“Amelia’s Tuesday Tips” Go Viral Q. What inspired you to do a weekly Tuesday Tip?

A. I always have a lot of tips for my sellers when they

are getting ready to list their homes. Over the years, I’ve just developed a lot of tips to make life easier – whether it’s related to home ownership or not. During the pandemic, our team started doing video tours of our listings, and I’d drop some of these ideas during those videos. Eventually, I decided I wanted to do something fun to help my clients, friends and the general public and it just grew from there.

Q. What do you focus your Tuesday Tips on?

A. My tips are all over the place! Sometimes it’s something

related to a home, sometimes it’s a cool gift idea. If something makes my life easier or more fun, I love to pass that on to my clients, friends and now the general public. I try to give tips that show how small inexpensive changes can make a big difference.

Q. What’s been your favorite Tuesday Tip? A. My favorites are the little changes that make a big

difference in the way a space looks and functions. I am obsessed about all lightbulbs matching – you can’t believe how much better a room looks when there aren’t mismatched light bulbs! I also love showing the difference that the simple task of installing new hardware and pulls on cabinets in your kitchen, laundry area or bathroom can make in these rooms. Also, you will not believe how much better your closet looks when all the hangers match.

Q. What has surprised you most?

A. The reach! I expected my close friends and a handful of

clients to get a few helpful ideas. The fact that my Tuesday Tips get seen by literally hundreds of thousands of people is wild to me. I think it shows how much people just need a quick little idea to make their lives easier – and I’m always searching for things to do just that.

Follow and like “Amelia’s Tuesday Tips” on Facebook or Instagram.

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FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

From Our Hearts To Yours!

Happy Valentine’s Day.

KansasHomeHealth.com · Wichita · 316.869.0015 FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

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Well-Known Drug Could Help Arthritis Sufferers Written by Amy Palser

AMR Seeking Participants Who Want Relief From OA If you or someone you know suffers from osteoarthritis, you know how difficult and frustrating it can be living in constant pain and discomfort. Unfortunately, that’s the situation for about 27 million Americans who are affected by OA. But Wichita research facility AMR is studying a well-known drug that could bring good news for OA patients. The medication in question has been commonly used for bladder issues in adults, among other things, but never for OA. Researchers have reason to believe, however, that the drug could also bring OA relief.

“We’re always looking at ways for getting people a higher quality of life with arthritis, but we haven’t been effective with being able to amend the progression of osteoarthritis,” said Terry Klein, a family physician at Family Medicine East in Wichita and a partner in Alliance for Multispecialty Research (AMR).

Because the drug being tested has been commonly used to address other health issues, researchers know it generally has very few side effects, Klein said. The drug is a subcutaneous injection, meaning it is injected under the skin, but not into the joint. “That’s important because some people are apprehensive about the thought of a needle going into the knee or another joint,” Klein said. “We have a good safety record on this product, so we feel very comfortable with it.”

The drug, which due to the trial parameters can’t be named, has been both studied and commonly prescribed to patients for other uses besides OA, but Klein said it hasn’t been in an arthritis study for over 20 years. “It has even been used for arthritis in animals, so there is some traction in its history,” he said.

Often called wear-and-tear arthritis, OA is the most common type of arthritis and is caused by aging joints, injury, joint overuse and obesity. OA causes the normally firm and rubbery cartilage in a joint to lose elasticity and become stiff and even wear away in areas, resulting in joint stiffness and pain. “The knee is the most susceptible joint to arthritis,” Klein said. “It’s large and has so much weight on it, so we tend to see it on the knee a lot.”

Unfortunately, Klein said, as OA patients avoid painful activities like climbing stairs or even walking, the supportive muscles begin to weaken, and balance and stability decline. “One of the reasons we’re taxed so heavily with arthritis in our society is that we’re relatively sedentary and overweight, so all those things contribute to a further destruction of that point,” Klein said. “Strengthening muscles, exercise and weight loss are good preventative measures for osteoarthritis.”

The Wichita-area AMR locations are enrolling candidates ages 18 and older who suffer from osteoarthritis for an OA drug trial. Candidates taking part in the study will be compensated. If you think you’re a good candidate, visit heartlandresearch.com/ studies/oa-of-the-knee-research-study, or call the AMR location closest to you:

The study will focus on the body’s inflammatory mechanisms and whether the drug reduces the destructive component of inflammation. If the drug works as researchers believe it will, it should allow OA patients to extend the years before needing surgery or other invasive techniques.

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FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

AMR Wichita East, 316.689.6652 AMR Wichita West, 316.462.0420 AMR El Dorado, 316.600.5127 AMR Newton, 316.283.0828

Are you living with knee pain?

Now Enrolling for Current & Upcoming Investigational Osteoarthritis of the Knee Clinical Research Studies

AMR

OA of the Knee Clinical Research Studies Get back to life! AMR Wichita locations are now enrolling for current and upcoming investigational OA of the knee clinical research studies.

To qualify, you must: be 18 years of age or older experience knee pain due to Osteoarthritis meet other study criteria

Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ

Qualied participants will receive: Ÿ all study-related care at no cost Ÿ investigational medication or placebo Reimbursement for time and study-related travel may be available. Insurance is not required. To see if you qualify, call AMR today.

AMR Wichita East - 316-689-6609 AMR Wichita West - 316-838-7700 AMR Newton - 316-283-0828

www.heartlandresearch.com

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FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

THANK

YOU Thank you from all of us at Coldwell Banker Plaza Real Estate for a great 2021!

With the support of our friends, family and neighbors, Coldwell Banker Plaza Real Estate has helped the community buy and sell homes for over 40 years!

Find an agent today at PlazaRE.com East Office: 316-686-7121 West Office: 316-722-0030

Check out next month's issue to see the winners of our annual Coldwell Banker Plaza Award Celebration!

2022 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of Fair Housing Act and Equal Opportunity Act. Each office is independently owned and operated. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC.

©

With

Braden Foster, DO Rebecca Foster, DO

Q. How did you two meet and where did you go on your first date?

A. Rebecca: Braden and I

met in medical school.

My maiden name is Fandrey, so we were frequently placed together in groups since our last names were close alphabetically.

We were in the same cadaver group. We spent a lot of time in anatomy lab and that’s where we really got to know each other. Not romantic at all! There is some debate over our “first date.” Braden will say it was when he asked me out for dinner and a movie on the plaza in Kansas City. I say it could be when I asked him to lunch at a local sandwich shop in my neighborhood. He did pay both times!

Q. Why did you take the path of family medicine?

A. Braden: I became interested in family medicine early in

medical school. It is the only medical specialty that combines all scopes of medicine to some degree. This keeps things new and exciting on a daily basis. I also had some amazing mentors in residency who were family physicians. They showed me the impact you can have on the lives of your patients through the practice of medicine.

Q. What do you find most rewarding about being a physician?

A. Rebecca: Recently, I was seeing a patient who is pregnant

with her first child. She told me, “When this baby arrives you

will be seeing four generations of my family.” Being able to care for generations of families at the same time is very special and I think somewhat unique to family medicine. That dynamic of family medicine allows us to get to know our patients as people and not just their medical concerns.

Q. What makes Rebecca a great physician?

A. Braden: Becky is an amazing physician. She

epitomizes what a family physician should be by showing compassion and a true sense of responsibility in the health of her patients. Nobody cares more about the impact they have on all aspects of a patient’s life, not just their health, than she does.

Q. What makes Braden a great physician?

A. Rebecca: Braden is incredibly smart and hardworking.

He doesn’t hesitate to shorten his lunch or stay late to care for a patient who needs to be seen. Also, Braden’s ability to recall medical information and apply it is remarkable. He can easily remember things that we learned in one lecture in medical school or residency.

This allows him to provide wonderful patient care with exceptional attention to detail. This also makes him an outstanding medical resource for me!

Q. Who’s going to win an argument about a medical disagreement?

A. Braden: Well let’s be honest. Becky will win any

argument we have. However, we really don’t argue over medical issues. From the time we met in medical school we have always been very supportive and laid back when it comes to the medical aspects of our lives.

Rebecca: However, we can be competitive with each other in lighter things like tennis, ”Wheel of Fortune” or even a game of horse in the driveway.

Alex Melugin’s Healthcare Highlight Sponsored by Phoenix Home Care and Hospice

Alex Melugin, Market President of Phoenix Home Care and Hospice

Phoenix Home Care and Hospice is the regional leader in home healthcare, disease management and private nursing and hospice services. Call Phoenix or check out our website to learn more about services for you and your family.

316.688.5511 · www.phoenixhomehc.com 22

FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

Featured Listing

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WIBA WINTER WONDERLAND Ruffin Building

Jose and Andrea Gutierrez, Jeff and Susie Longwell

Randy and Denise Hall, Tammy Taylor, Ashtin Diamonte, Sarah Suter

Tasha Park, Lindsey Hall, Jody Klein, Angela Priner, Cathy Mitchell

Wendell and Shelley Funk

Belinda Atteberry, Mitchel Diemer, Parikshya Bhattarai-Diemer

Chris and Tina Mann, Mike Flores, Gary Bond

WIBA Staff: Jaclyn McAnarney, Wendell Funk, Jennifer Willits

Jessica Viramontez, Brandy Evans, Marisa Pechanec

John and Terran Dold, Wendell Funk, Matt and Rachel Magnuson

Ken Jenks, Santa Claus, Meghan and Aaron West

Manny Villarreal, Alex Ibarra

Ragu and Sue Tirukonda, Jeff Lackey, Janice Perkins, Adam Stodal

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FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

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REAL PLASTIC SURGEONS. REAL RESULTS. Nousette Jefferson Photography | instagram: @njeffphoto

Real Patients. Real Results.

Our patient changed her eating habits for good and is so happy with her sustained weight loss and arm lift.

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

Lose Weight Without Surgery and Keep It Off Are you frustrated with failed weight-loss attempts and diets that don’t work? At Plastic Surgery Center, we have two non-surgical options for you: Orbera and endoscopic suture gastroplasty.

What is Orbera?

Orbera is a two-part weight-loss program that helps people achieve their weight-loss goals and maintain them long-term, all without an invasive surgery. Orbera combines a weight-loss balloon with nutritional coaching and exercise programs.

The Orbera procedure takes about 20 minutes as we place a temporary balloon in the stomach without any incisions. The balloon stays in the stomach for six months to help encourage the body to adapt to healthier portion sizes. To help patients get the most out of this procedure, we provide a coaching team and connect patients with a dietician. This way, once the balloon comes out, patients may continue to lose weight and keep it off.

What is Endoscopic Suture Gastroplasty (ESG)?

This weight-loss procedure is also non-surgical and is done through the mouth using an endoscope. Your surgeon takes a normal, large, stretchy stomach and tightens it into a narrow sleeve shape. Your stomach is smaller, so you can eat less to feel satisfied, leading to weight loss. ESG takes about three hours, and patients return home the same day. Most return to work in two to three days.

Many patients lose an average of 20 percent of their total body weight in one year. Results may vary for each person, but most patients lose 70 percent of their excess weight. In addition to the procedure, patients commit to our dietary program and optimize their success through our diet and exercise recommendations.

Explain your journey to Orbera and body contouring.

PSC Patient: When I went in for my neck lift, I saw the information about Orbera. It seemed so simple, and I was excited it was non-invasive. I had tried every diet and form of exercise I could, and I still couldn’t lose the weight I wanted to. I inquired about Orbera and decided it was the treatment for me.

How did you feel after treatment?

PSC Patient: The treatment took about 20 minutes. It was pain-free, and I walked out on my own. The first couple of weeks were hard, but I had a lot of support from my Orbera team. I never felt alone.

How much weight did you lose?

PSC Patient: I lost about 30 pounds, and I am down two sizes. They give you a special scale, and you download an app on your phone. Plus, you get ongoing support from a person to help you learn how to eat differently.

Are you happy with your results?

PSC Patient: Yes! I am thrilled – I look great at 63. I would do it over again. My self-confidence is amazing, and I look and feel so much better. I didn’t have any problems at all, and I am so glad I did it.

Do you have advice for people considering Orbera and body contouring?

PSC Patient: Just do it. It has changed my life. You can do just the Orbera, or if you have excess skin, the body contouring really helps. Neither procedure was that bad. It just took a couple of weeks to get used to the balloon. I don’t crave bad food anymore, I eat slower, and I look forward to keeping the weight off with what I learned from my support team.

Before (back)

Before (front)

After the Weight-Loss Treatment

Once patients lose the weight with Orbera or ESG, they are in their best health. Many opt for body contouring options such as tummy tucks and arm and leg lifts to help reduce loose, hanging skin so they can look and feel their best. Patients may add body contouring on the day their Orbera balloon comes out, or they can come back later for surgery. With ESG, patients come back after they’ve lost weight.

We are so excited to offer you proven weight-loss programs that help people lose more weight than diet and exercise alone. If you’re ready to kick-start your weight loss with Orbera or ESG and explore body contouring options, call us at 316.688.7500.

After (back)

After (front)

Before-and-after photos with Orbera-assisted weight loss and surgical removal of skin.

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 plastic surgery performed by the highly skilled plastic surgeons at the Plastic Surgery Center.

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FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

GRAND OPENING Evolution Fitness Wichitans got a chance to experience the all new Evolution Fitness Studios at their grand opening event with free classes, giveaways and a session on injury prevention and pain management.

The fitness gym features boxing, kickboxing and mixed martial arts; yoga and flexibility; kids programs; and personal training. Check them out on the web at evolutionict.com, or on facebook and instagram: @evolutionfitnessstudios

Angela Easiley with Shred

Brandon Turner

Donielle Watson, Manny Thompson, Gary Tate, Manny Brown

Kim Umscheid

Laura Hay

Manny Brown

Manny Thompson

Michael Chaloud

Monica Morris, Kristen Voth, Laurie Spence

Sean Muder, Scott Bell

Tyler Stinson

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FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

Weight Loss for Moms

Emily VinZant, MD

Obesity Medicine certified physician The Life Coach School certified weight loss coach Virtual Small Group Weight Loss Coaching emily@doctormome.com · check out “The School of Weight Loss” podcast

doctormome.com

FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

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FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

Written by Gregory Lakin, D.O., J.D. | Center for Change

Telling Stories That Heal, Inspire I am convinced that personal stories are powerful – especially authentic stories that don’t gloss over the ugly parts. People struggling with addiction would much rather hear a good success story from someone who was in their shoes than listen to a doctor ramble on about the neurobiology of addiction.

could succeed, as well. The patients could see how someone just like them joined a program with medication-assisted treatment; worked with their counselors and addiction providers; and have seen their brains change from constant modes of desperation and crisis to calmer, controlled, normal thinking.

That was the idea behind “Lakin Chronicles,” a podcast and video series we started about two and a half years ago, just before the pandemic hit. It proved to be a valuable resource during the shutdown as clients could no longer attend group meetings to learn from others.

Those on the podcast have shared how sobriety is worth it on the other side. Many got their relationships back, are doing well at their jobs, and are enjoying time with their kids or grandkids again, rather than seeking drugs and using up all their money. It is these stories that give patients hope.

As an addiction doctor, I have talked to hundreds of people who have successfully overcome addiction, and I wanted to share those stories to help others in their recovery journey. So far we have recorded and published around 30 episodes. These are stories from all types of people – from first responders and healthcare workers, to construction workers, aircraft mechanics and moms. Two podcasts are from mothers who lost their adult children to overdoses. We follow two couples – one who is doing well and the other still struggling.

All of those interviewed in the podcasts are Kansans, so the episodes have caught on here locally, and many people share the links with a relative or a friend struggling with addiction. We have about 30 more people who want to tell their stories, which takes a lot of courage and is so selfless on their part. I admire every one of them. Those who are telling their stories, with all their toils and troubles, are doing so with the sole intent of giving back and helping others.

No matter who we interview or what the circumstances, it seems there is always a patient for whom that particular program has resonated. They realized they weren’t alone and were inspired by the person being interviewed, giving the patient hope that they

Lakin Chronicles Listen to Dr. Greg Lakin’s podcast on YouTube or Facebook: @lakinchronicles

FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

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LITTLE STARS THERAPY SERVICES HOLIDAY EVENT The Monarch Little Stars Therapy Services provides exceptional services to those impacted by special needs in Wichita since 2018.

Their dedicated healthcare professionals provide evidence-based interventions in a fun and engaging family-centered environment. Request an appointment today and see what Little Stars can do for your loved one. Call 316-364-8767, or visit littlestarstherapyks.com.

Kim Becker, Audrey Graber, Nicole McArthur

Nicole McArthur, Brooke Brecheisen, Kim Smith, Michael McLain, Mary Rawcliffe

Adrian Palmore, Jada VanNordstrand, Jayden Cornejo, Cheyenne Brill

Karina Martin, LaKayla Thomas, Ashley Murphy, Karli Berry

Baylee Kampfe, Nisha Dean, Ariel McMurphy, Tarika Standifer, Karli Berry

Jeremiah and Kelly Coon

Katie King, Cahlea Drescher, Jessica Beevers

Kelsey Rawcliffe, Amber Dejmal, Madisyn Babcock

Raven Roberts, Courtney Harper, Krysal Irvin, Guadalupe Cobain, Tiffiny Brewer

Summer Shore, Kaycie Ball, Jayden Cornejo, Celeste Johns, Corey Brown, Katelina Rutler, Abrielle Inbody, Jada VanNordstrand

Taylor Miller, Audrey Graber, Christina Hourani, Amber Dejmal, Ryan Baker

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FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

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The LBD, ETC. 316.440.0772

36

Sweet

Sassy

Location - The Vault Collection Photography - Tobie Andrews Models - IMPACTmodels and SPLURGE!316 Magazine Styling - Jody Klein Hair - Crave Beauty Academy: Alia S, Morgan M, Mariah F, Trina W, Valrey P Makeup - Crave Beauty Academy: LaZaria T, Anastaja Z, Huda A, Journei B, Kailey C

The LBD, ETC. 316.440.0772 FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

37

Grey Boutique 316.358.0016

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FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

2132 N Rock Road #104 Wichita, Kansas

MODEL SEARCH 1/29/22 10 AM-2 PM At the Market LLC 601 N West St Suite 246 Wichita, KS 67203

GET GETSCOUTED! SCOUTED! GET SIGNED! SIGNED! GET GETTRAINED! TRAINED! GET MODELING! MODELING! Be an IMPACT in the modeling industry with IMPACTmodels, where we have our models’ best interest at heart with in-person training.

Scouting ages 5 & up for models & influencers for local, national and world!

316-204-7123 · www.impactmodels.biz/get-scouted

PICK ONE NEW SPRING DRESS FOR

20% OFF SAM EDELMAN DRESSES, PISTOLA DENIM, CHINESE LAUNDRY, MARLYN SCHIFF, AG DENIM, FIVE AND TWO JEWELRY, SEE YOU SOON, TED BAKER, RAILS BAILEY 44, FRENCH CONNECTION, LAVENDER BROWN, AMANDA UPRICHARD, TART, VELVET HEART, MAURITIUS, PAIGE JEANS, HUDSON JEANS, 7 FOR ALL MANKIND JEANS, JOE’S JEANS, GREYLIN, LOVE TOKEN 316.440.0772 | Find Us On facebook.com/thelbdetc

FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

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Aspen Boutique 316.682.6784

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FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

FASHION

Carolyn Sayres 316.683.2411

4730 E. Douglas 683.2411 CarolynSayresFineJewelry.com Open Tues. - Sat. FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

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Marketplace 67010 316.358.0894

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FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

Valentine’s Gift Cards

BOGO

1/2 Off all month long until February 28, 2022 Shop our Valentine Collection Jewel Angels Design District 3236 E Douglas Ave

You Drop It Off. We Sell It Online!

DO YOU HAVE GENTLY USED ELECTRONICS, JEWELRY OR DESIGNER BAGS YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT TO DO WITH? WE HANDLE EVERYTHING FROM THE MOMENT YOU WALK THROUGH OUR DOOR AND GET YOU PAID QUICKLY.

Looking for a fun, exciting career?

Classes for 2022 enrollment are happening NOW for February & March 3804 W Douglas Ave · Wichita, KS 67203 316.943.5516 · CraveBeautyAcademy.com All services performed under the direct supervision of licensed instructors. For Consumer Information of median debt and other consumer facts, please visit www.cravebeautyacademy.com

A LAPTOP SELLS EVERY 40 SECONDS! ELECTRONICS HOUSEWARES VEHICLE PARTS & ACCESSORIES

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AND MUCH MORE! 37th & Woodlawn | 316.684-EBAY | www.myedrop.com

FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

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The new Kendra Scott collection has arrived!

NOW HIRING

For career opportunities check our website www.blingglamour.com or email bling.district@gmail.com

w w w. b l i n g g l a m o u r. c o m

Bling Greenwich 2684 N. Greenwich Court Wichita, Ks 67226 316.260.3626

Bling New Market 2441 N. Maize Road Suite 407 Wichita, Ks 67205 316.252.8429

Bling Derby 2100 N. Rock Road Derby, Ks 67037 316.358.0564

20 stores in Kansas Nebraska and Oklahoma

Waterfront · Towne East · New Market Square · Hutchinson www.specseyewear.com 44

FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

Violet Closet 316.612.6988

1151 N. Charlotte

D L O

S

• McEwen • Main Floor Family Room • Wood Floors • 3 Bedrooms • 2.5 Bathrooms • Sq. ft. 2,486

©2021 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.

CALL TO SCHEDULE YOUR SPRING APPOINTMENT!

316.612.6988 · 517 N. Lorraine TheVioletCloset.com FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

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Treat That Someone Special!

Make a reservation in our couples suite.

MANICURES

·

PEDICURES

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FRESHSPAMARKETNAILS

FACIALS FRESHSPAWICHITA

NEW LOCATION 214 S. Rock Road Suite 101 | Wichita, KS 67207 316.409.0727 | www.FreshSpaWichita.com

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FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

$11 per unit (Regularly $12/unit)

$3.50 per unit (Regularly $4/unit)

All Dermal Fillers are $50 OFF per syringe

Farmhouse fresh products include: Moon Dip body mousse, shea butter hand cream, iridescent illuminating facial mousse, shea butter for body, body balms, body wash, body oils, lip balms, whipped shea body polish

Free consultations offered

316.425.7980

10523 E 21st St N · Wichita, KS 67206 FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

47

Make her

SPARKLE

this Valentine’s Day Jewelry Design · Jewelry Repair Stone Setting · Ring Sizing Watch Repair · Battery Replacement and MORE!

Mon 1 - 5pm · T - F 10am - 5:30pm · Sat 10am - 4pm 540 S Rock Rd. · Eastgate Shopping Center, Kellogg & Rock 316.305.2233 ·SparkleWichita.com 48

FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

Happy Valentine's Day 4737 E Douglas Ave Wichita, KS 67218 (316)351-3580

4724 E Douglas Ave Wichita, KS 67208 (316)682-6784

Mon-Fri Sat Sun.

10AM - 6PM 10AM - 5PM Closed

THANK YOU FOR 35+ YRS

Wed-Sat 10AM-5PM Mon-Tues

By Appt Sun. Closed CURATED UNIQUE FURNISHINGS

FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

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FASHION PASSION Textron Aviation Activity Center Wichitans dressed to the nines to watch a high-fashion runway show, eat fabulous food and enjoy live music, all in the name of helping Kansas kids.

The annual Fashion Passion benefits Rainbows United, a Wichita nonprofit that aims to enhance the lives of children with special needs and their families through community resources and customized services. For more information visit rainbowsunited.org.

Kim and Mike Mann, Scott and Betsy Redler, Kristen and Zach Woodburn

Esperanza Tejano, Lily Ashcrom, LewJene Schneider, Alleigh Allen, Sheila Tigert, Melody Matulewic, Bonnie Bing

Forever Friends

Gavin and Elsie Kreidler, Janeen Hughes

Jackie and Pat Gearhart, Kristen and John Gearhart, Rich and Carmen Trease, Shawn and Kelsey Jiwanlal

TJ and Michelle Dixon, Sarah and Joe Nold, Trey and Lindsey Anderson, Martin Millis and Antoine Agnew

Kelly Escobar, Whitney Turek, Emma Krehbiel, Ali Raymond

Shannon Angle, Ann and Dennis Ross, Patricia Thompson, Helen Galloway, Pam and Cash McCall, Linnie and Dennis Dietz

Tasha Park, Mignon Brewster, Jody Klein, Michael O’Donnell, Angela Pirner, Lindsey Hall, Cathy Mitchell

Tenille Schwanke, Abi Griffin, Heather and Randy Eilert

Zach Woodburn, Mike Carroll, Kristen Woodburn

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FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

WE HAVE MOVED! 300 Building

New address: Cypress Medical Park 300 Bld 9300 E. 29th St. Suite 315 Wichita, KS 67226

Cypress Surgery Center

We are open and ready to serve the community!

beautifuleyesllc.com 316.425.9925

316.425.0445 ICTEyeLLC.com

Be Our Valentine and Fall in Love with Grey Boutique

20% Off $50 or More 30% Off $100 or More Feb 1 - Feb 14, 2022

9746 E. 21st St. N. · Wichita, KS 67206 316-358-0016 · GreyBoutique.net FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

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FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

design your lifestyle 3 1 6 - 7 0 6 - 3 8 5 8 s t e p h a n i e J a k u b . c o m STEPHANIE JAKUB REALTOR® & DESIGNER

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HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE Randy Cooper’s Fine Jewelry

Jeanne Tiller, owner Randy Cooper, designer representative Paul Pilla, Marsha Hatcher

Junetta Everett, Tracy Williams

Nancy Mundhenke, Jenny Paulseen, Sandra Thomas, Tracy Farrell

Tami Caro, Nicole Eckert, Barbara McClellan, Charlotte Bass, Pat Beran

Randy Cooper, Beth and Tim Rohrig

Bob Knight, Ron and Mary Groves

Chris and Tonya Crawshaw, Errol and Suzie Luginbill

Phuong and Matthew Riley

Lillian and Dr. Jennifer Burgoyne

Rhonda and Bill Martin, Pamela and Bob McGrath

Kevin O_Neill, Maxine Unruh, Bruce and Beth Peters

Julie Goldston, Rick Saenger, Shauna and Paul Gunzelman, Terry and Sandy Rupp

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FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

2122 S. Ironstone s ck t Ba Eas

D L O

S

• Sierra Hills • 5 Bedrooms • 3 Bathrooms • Sq. Ft. 3,734 • Upgrades Throughout • Covered Deck • Finished Walk-out Basement

©2021 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.

Beautiful, Unique & Quirky Gifts

Many Made By Local Artisans

Come shop for that special Valentine Signs Candles Baby items Jewelry Dish towels T-shirts custom laser engraved signs And much more!

10% off . 28, 2022 expires Feb mention When yoisu ad. th

2110 N. Maize Rd. Ste. 600 · Wichita, Ks 67212 316-444-0257 · LavenderWinks.com

FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

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Tobie Andrews: Making an Impact, One Photo at a Time Written by Alexis Evans

When Tobie Andrews first stepped behind a camera in her high school yearbook class, she never imagined that she would go on to create a career out of capturing smiles and memories. This significant name in the Wichita community is the owner of three different businesses, and has been snapping the best smiles in Wichita for over 20 years. Through her years as a photographer and real estate agent, she has had the opportunity to photograph everything from weddings and engagements, architecture and real estate, professional headshots, bridal and family portraits, and an abundance of kid-centered events.

As her business has shifted and she has gained more freedom, Andrews has been able to take on those projects that are most meaningful to her. This includes photographing the yearly Heartspring Family Weekend, in which she gets to spend the day taking photos of the kids and their families. This event is especially memorable because many of the youth who live on the Heartspring campus are many states away from their families, so being the one to photograph those significant moments is incredibly impactful for her. Andrews has a particularly soft spot in her heart for these children, and explains, “It’s a part of my life I’ll never be able to go without … These kids just want to feel comfortable and confident and loved, like anyone else in the world.”

In her Old Town studio, she has recently made a positive personnel change in hiring photographer Anna Rambo. Like Andrews, Rambo has a passion for children, and is especially skilled in family and newborn photography.

This shared passion comes in handy with their most popular service, the Children’s Highlights program, which is a 5-minute, mini-themed session for children, held year-round. Visit tobieandrewsphotography.com to view the full scope of this and Andrews’ other services, as well as scheduling and pricing.

In addition to her thriving studio business, Andrews recently began a partnership with Wichita business Love of Character to present “Birthday Days!” During these shoots kids are photographed with a stunning balloon arch or background wall as a fun and exciting way to remember their birthday. More details about this monthly event are available on the Tobie Andrews Photography Facebook page.

The name “Tobie Andrews” is all over the local business scene in Wichita, including that of Berkshire Hathaway. Alongside her business partner Mikaela Rehmert-Fira, the two women lead the team known as Rehmert Andrews & Associates. Andrews has found that she often will spot her own work in the homes she shows.

“It’s fun to see the stuff that I’ve shot impact people’s lives, even after 20 years!” she explains. Making an impact is important to Tobie Andrews. From her ambition to take her mother to the Kentucky Derby, to her daily goal to make every client feel seen and supported, the photographer will always give her all to deliver only the best.

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FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

Expressions of Love Written by Julie Hying

10 High-Impact Gestures That Are Easy on the Wallet In February, when thoughts of valentines reign supreme, we look for ways to celebrate the holiday. Valentine’s Day, celebrated on February 14, originated when St. Valentine ignored a king’s edict to marry young lovers and has transformed into a holiday that arrives with reminders of romance. The ways in which we show love and appreciation are varied and can be creative and filled with imagination and meaning. They need not be paired with expensive price tags to bear importance or convey emotion.

Symbols and tokens can speak volumes and say to that special person, “You and no other.”

10. Comfort and Joy – a Gift to Warm Heart and Soul

Winter winds blow frigid and chill. Envelop the heart of your loved one by warming them with a carefully chosen scarf. Colorful cashmere, flannel, classic plaid, perhaps one crocheted or hand-sewn, warms the spirit and provides luxury and comfort throughout the season.

9. Meet Me at the Movies

Date night, whether single or married, can include a trip to the theater or a movie at home. Stories told on the big screen enhance the experience and create a lasting memory to be treasured. Choose a film that tells a heart-felt story or a romantic comedy with light moments eliciting laughter and smiles that linger all night, and long after the credits roll.

8. Your Chariot Awaits

In the busy bustle of our lives, it’s a nice surprise to have someone tend to our vehicles.

Fill your loved one’s ride with fuel and take a trip through a car wash. Return your loved one’s chariot to him or her with a shine, ready to be taken for a spin. Then enjoy a drive together filled with lively conversation, quiet tenderness or musical selections.

7. Love Letters

Instead of composing one of your own, borrow the beautifully written letters shared throughout history. From Beethoven to Bonaparte, writers, along with other famous figures, both male and female, have classically penned their thoughts of love and longing. Allow these love-filled letters to inspire you and share feelings with your special someone.

6. A Loving Touch

The relaxation of massage goes beyond the moment, offering stress relief and restored energy.

A professional appointment is always nice; better still is time set aside to deliver a massage with your own loving touch. Tenderness expresses caring, kindness, calm and consideration.

Healing hands need no words to say, “I love you.”

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FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

5. The Dance

Great stories of love may be remembered by a single dance. Reminiscent of a previously celebrated special occasion or just a moment between two people, the movement to music can bring two hearts together.

A rooftop, backyard, a space in front of the fireplace – any atmosphere can be a place to embrace and move to music and melody in sweet harmony.

4. Starry Night

Let your girl or guy know that each night, when you gaze upon the stars in the heavens, that one special star bears his or her name, and brightens the darkness beyond in a unique way. Among Orion and Cassiopeia, a single star shines and reminds you of a special loved one.

3. A Perfect Symbol: The Rose

Although fragrant and beautiful, a bouquet of roses feels formal and sometimes cliché. Unique and personal, a single rose in blossoms of red, pink or white whispers hints of romantic love and intimacy. Classically elegant, always in season, a rose aromatically calls to mind thoughts of romance and passion, and renders the recipient enraptured by a spell of love.

2. The Way to the Heart

It’s often been said that the way to a man’s (or woman’s) heart is through the stomach. For palatable reasons or those connected with time and effort put forth, this rings true. Warm, rich lasagna, fettuccine Alfredo or perhaps a perfectly prepared filet mignon paired with a mellow red or a crisp white wine can be as delicious, as pleasing and as appreciated as any meal served in an elegant city restaurant.

1. Drive-By Surprise

One frigid day in February, stop by the workplace of your Valentine to drop off a cup of coffee or a treat of hot tea to be enjoyed. Just holding the warm vessel with its delicious liquid will warm the heart of your loved one. Going out of your way to show you care is a kind and thoughtful gesture, ever enjoyed, always appreciated.

FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

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Written by Guy Bower

Sherry, The Noble Wine of Spain!

If you’re like most Americans, you may have never enjoyed the refreshing complexities of sherry, this often-misunderstood classic wine from southern Spain. Cadiz, located in the ancient sun-drenched southwestern coastal province of Andalusia is the home of the “Sherry Triangle,” made up of the three famous sherry producing cities; Jerez de la Fronterra, El Puerto de Santa Maria and Sanlúcar de Barrameda. It’s here that the hot, dry Mediterranean climate and the chalky soil provide the perfect microclimate for the indigenous grape variety, palomino.

Sherry begins just like any other wine; the fermented palomino grape produces a dry, thin wine notoriously prone to oxidation.

But it’s here that the process becomes unique! The wine begins its journey through the solera process, where each bodega has stacks of American oak barrels or butts arranged in criaderas

Basic Styles of Sherry Fino - “The wine of Jerez” is pale and straw colored, light and very dry. Fino sherry is crisp, delicate and slightly pungent. Its distinctive aroma, reminiscent of almonds, comes from the flor yeast that grew on the surface of the wine during development in the solera. Served chilled, Fino is an excellent aperitif or goes well with chilled seafood, olives, spicy meats, sausages and salty snacks like potato chips, pretzels or nuts.

Fino manzanilla Another type of fino, the palest, driest and lightest-bodied of all sherries. It is only produced in the Atlantic coastal town of Sanlúcar de Barrameda. Tangy and tart, this limited production is also a great aperitif and goes with all the items listed above.

Amontillado - A rich amber color, this sherry has a distinct pungent aroma with a lingering nutty aftertaste. Medium-dry and full-bodied with slightly higher alcohol content than fino, amontillado is a great accompaniment to Spanish cheese, smoked fish, roasted red peppers and artichokes.

Oloroso - This fragrant sherry has a nutty bouquet reminiscent of walnuts. Oloroso ranges from dark gold to amber, and is softer and mellower, with more body than amontillado. Hints of sweetness make this wine a perfect light dessert wine.

or cradles. The newest wine is added to the top criadera along with the aging wine already present. The wines are racked off to the lower levels as they age, finally ending up in the bottom row or solera. Each criadera represents a step in the aging process, with the wines becoming darker and richer at each stage and older wines training the newer wines, providing consistency and character.

All sherry is non-vintage, consisting of the marriage of many different vintage years. One of the key elements in producing dry, crisp fino sherry is the “velo de flor” or natural yeast cap that forms inside the fermenting barrel in the upper criaderas.

The flor prevents the oxidation of the young wines as they age in the upper racks. It’s from these upper racks that the driest finos are extracted and bottled. The higher alcohol content in the lower racks inhibits the production of flor, resulting in controlled oxidation. This slow, gentle aging process is evaluated, classified and, at various levels of age and color, extracted to produce the different styles of sherry.

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Cream - The biggest seller in America, this rich, smooth, sweeter wine is a blend of oloroso and Pedro Ximenez or moscatel. A nose of dried fruit with nutty overtones, this is a rich dessert wine.

Pedro Ximenez - Made from the grape of the same name, this is desert in a glass! Deep dark rich color with a sweet nose and long, lingering, sweet finish. Try this aged wine with a blueveined cheese, some toasted almonds, or over vanilla ice cream.

Serve sherry in a traditional copita - a slender, clear tulipshaped glass. All sherry is ready to drink when bottled and doesn’t require further aging or storing on its side. Fino should be refrigerated after opening and enjoyed fresh, but due to the higher alcohol content all others can be stored at room temperature and will hold up well for a long time after opening.

Guy Bower is host of The Good Life radio show airing every Saturday, 12–1 p.m. on 98.7/1330 KNSS, featuring special guests, book reviews and a wine of the week.

FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

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How To Show Your Heart Some Love Written by Lauren Boughfman

The most romantic day of the year is generally defined as a way to show others how much you love and care for them. As important as it is to spoil your loved ones this Valentine’s Day, it’s just as important to give a little extra attention to yourself.

Take the opportunity to show yourself some love this holiday, and every day. Here are a few ideas to spark some inspiration.

Prioritize “Me” Time “Me” time categorizes as anything you want it to be. Take some downtime by binge-watching a Netflix show on your watch list, flip through your favorite magazine or take some time to rest. Pamper yourself and schedule a massage, mani-pedi, or even a blowout.

Create your own spa night at home and partake in a facial mask and bubble bath. Most of all, be selfish and do something that makes you happy.

Try Something New It is so important to find activities and things to do that make your heart happy. Experiencing things you’ve never tried is a great way of doing so. Spend some time with yourself and try something new. Try a new workout class, visit a new town, try out a new restaurant, or anything else on your wishlist. Maybe you’ll even discover something new about yourself!

Plan a Night Out With Friends Gather your friends and celebrate the holiday together. Plan an exciting evening out with your friends or even a night in. Take some time to reconnect and enjoy an activity you have in common.

Sometimes it may feel almost impossible to set aside time to spend with friends, but turn this holiday into an opportunity to do just that. Spending a day with your besties is the perfect way to express your love and gratitude for those special friendships!

Take Some Time to Unplug Though this can be a hard one, it is so important. Take some time off your phone to be more present. Many of us are glued to our phones without even realizing it. When we are so focused on our phones, we miss so many things going on around us. Taking a break from your phone will give you the opportunity to reconnect with those around you. This Valentine’s Day, make it a priority to really appreciate the moment. Cherish time with loved ones and show them just how much you care.

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FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

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Curtain Up, Spotlight On, Drumroll Please Talents Shine at Sunrise Christian Academy Written by Julie Underwood Burton

Since 1983, Sunrise Christian Academy has offered the most expansive K–12, Christian-based, college-preparatory education in Wichita. Fine arts classes are expressly designed to show students how to use the arts to honor God with their many talents.

Offerings include band and orchestra, choir, pep band, drumline, debate and forensics, drama, and art.

Depending on the program, opportunities begin in kindergarten and extend past high school where students earn fine arts scholarships, with some students pursuing a post-graduation professional career in a fine arts field. Many of Sunrise Christian Academy’s programs are award-winning, both locally and statewide. Recently their drama program earned more Jester nominations from Music Theatre of Wichita than any other public or private school in Kansas.

Students Speak Out I “I have been in the Sunrise orchestra program since fourth grade. , Colwell Daniel or, instruct our of learned to play the violin with the help year, Every God. of glory the for best very our play to who encourages us I learn a violin solo and compete against many other students. I feel blessed to be in the orchestra and look forward to it every day. Sunrise Christian Academy believes it is important that every child does find are not something that gives them a sense of belonging, and if students ge or backsta always are directly enrolled in one of its many classes, there . involved become can s student where behind-the-scenes opportunities t Eckhar Piper – shine!”

Let those talents ”What I have always loved about the fine arts program at Sunrise is that there is an area of involvement for students on every level. From music to art to drama, there’s either an elective or an extracurricular program that covers all levels of creativity. I have always found the fine arts programs to present us a challenge, but then through time and effort our teachers guide us through those obstacles, and we become more accomplished and ready to face future challenges because of it.” – Nathan Lindholm

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“When I was new to Sunrise, it was one of the best ways for me to meet new people and they have become some of my closest friends. All the teachers are extremely talented and have helped me grow in my love for music.”

– Victoria VanDellen

y together “Part of the glue that holds our theater famil ts for Him. talen our is our reliance on God to help us use nt to share rtme depa the ed allow This year specifically has musical a im,’ ‘Pilgr show fall our gh throu our testimony were able We ress.’ based on John Bunyan’s ‘Pilgrim’s Prog would God that ng prayi week to spend a morning of show ts.” hear our and nce’s audie work in both the – Alysha Keck

Where To Find Them

Sunrise Christian Academy · 5500 E. 45th Street N. Bel Aire, KS · 316.744.9262 sunrisechristian.org

FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

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Opera Man Wichita Native Returns to Hometown to Lead WGO

Written by Amy Palser In Germany and other European nations where Whitney Reader has been a conductor over the last 15 years, opera is a way of life. Supported by the government, European opera houses are run differently than in the U.S., with singers engaged permanently at the opera house and shows regularly performed throughout the week.

It’s something Reader would love to see more of in Wichita – making opera part of everyday life. The 41-year-old Wichita native made the transatlantic move from Germany to Kansas last month to take over as general and music director of the Wichita Grand Opera. And he hopes to bring some of what he experienced in Germany to Wichita.

“People don’t need to be compelled into loving music, just reminded, perhaps, that they already do.”

– Whitney Reader

Tobie Andrews Photography

“One of my goals is to make opera more accessible to people – not just the elite. Once people can connect with this art form, they can recognize its pertinence and universal appeal,” Reader said. “People don’t need to be compelled into loving music, just reminded, perhaps, that they already do. Opera may represent uncharted waters for audience members, but beyond all clichés, the music and the stories are timeless, universal.”

The son of Dr. G. Whitney and Eva-Marie Reader of Wichita, the younger Reader earned a bachelor’s degree in violin and a master’s in conducting at Wichita State University before moving to Germany to work as a pianist and conductor. “While I never intended to spend the rest of my life in Europe, I wanted to be closer to the fountainhead of all this music for a time,” he said.

“Not only was all this great music composed there, but it has been cherished and kept alive there for centuries; many great performance traditions were created on the continent over time, and I felt that going there was the best way to absorb these – by being immersed in them.”

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The Reader family in New Mexico, a favorite haunt, in the 1980s.

FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

Moving to Germany made sense to Reader on many different levels: Not only could he immerse himself in the musical heritage there, but he could spend time with his grandparents who lived in Germany.

Reader’s mother is German, so the Reader children grew up with German as their first spoken language.

Working his way up in the world of conducting in Germany, Reader landed a job at an opera house in Düsseldorf, a city in western Germany known for its fashion industry and art scene. He traveled and worked in various countries, and along the way had opportunities to guest conduct in places like Italy, Norway, Denmark, Spain, Switzerland and Cyprus. At the time of this interview he was giving a masterclass at the opera in Warsaw, Poland.

WGO general and artistic director Alan Held said the Wichita arts community will benefit from Reader’s skills and energy. “He has talents that are unique to someone who has spent a great amount of time working with artists on an international stage,” said Held, who plans to advise the new director and company on artistic matters Whitney Reader and his mom, for the foreseeable future.

Eva-Marie, just before a WGO Held, an internationally performance of “Don Giovanni” last spring. acclaimed baritone who joined WGO leadership in 2019, will continue duties as a voice professor and director of opera at WSU, and as the director of sacred music at The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Wichita, all while pursuing his own singing career.

Reader has worked with Held during visits to the WGO, including a collaboration last spring in a performance of Mozart’s “Don Giovanni,” of which Reader is particularly proud, since most other opera companies in America – and the world – were dark due to Covid. “I have a tremendous amount of respect for Alan,” Reader said. “He has been a big inspiration to me as an artist and as a person. It’s been the privilege of a lifetime to work with him. I’m certainly following in other people’s footsteps.”

Making Music

Music was always important to Reader growing up. He and his siblings frequently played together and even had a string quartet.

“My parents wanted us to have music in our lives,” he said. “We had a wonderful theory teacher at WSU – Walter Mays, who is also an acclaimed composer; he and his wife would come over often with stacks of music and we would play for hours on end. They had a big impact on me and I think on all of us.”

Opera, however, was not on Reader’s radar. “There was no opera in Wichita when I was growing up, and had there been, I likely would have had little to no interest anyway,” he said with a laugh. But just as opera was returning to Wichita (WGO was formed in 2000), so too was opera making its mark on Reader. Eventually the two intersected, and Reader played violin for WGO’s inaugural concerts featuring Luciano Pavarotti and Plácido Domingo, consecutively, and served as principal pianist and assistant conductor for WGO’s very first opera production in 2003, Bizet’s “Carmen,” performed at Bradley Fair. In the last decade, Reader has had multiple opportunities to conduct the WGO, including “Madama Butterfly” in 2011, “The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber” in 2018, “All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914” in 2019, and most recently, “Don Giovanni.”

Whitney Reader conducts the orchestra at Wichita State University as a student.

it’s been a wonderful run,” he said. “But I knew that I didn’t want to stay in Germany forever, so when this opportunity became a reality, it made all the sense in the world.”

The first thing he wants to do after taking the helm at WGO is to start performing operas with more frequency, and working to continue to engender enthusiasm for opera in Wichita, beginning with a performance Feb. 11 with violinist Caroline Campbell that he says will be highly entertaining. “She is a phenomenal violinist in every sense – a real virtuoso – and puts on a spectacular performance,” he said.

Reader would also like to start mounting more American pieces.

“Italian opera’s great, German opera’s great, but there’s great American opera, too. For one thing, they’re in English, and some of the subject matter is more American,” he said. One of his longterm goals is seeing an actual opera house built in Wichita. It would generate a lot of interest in the opera, he said, and could be a spectacular venue for opera, symphony or dance.

Dr. Dennis Ross, WGO board chairman emeritus, said he has gotten to know the young conductor through the Reader family and through WGO, and is excited to have him on board. “He’s young and energetic and I hope he attracts some younger people,” Ross said. “He loves all kinds of music, so although he may be an opera guy, he’s willing to do things outside of pure opera, as long as it’s done well. He has a lot of enthusiasm, and I think he will bring new life to the opera and to Wichita’s cultural scene in general.”

Reader is ready for the task: “There’s a lot of work to be done. It’s exciting because – aptly, for the Air Capital of the World – the sky’s the limit.”

Upcoming at the Wichita Grand Opera Violinist Caroline Campbell Feb. 11

Century II Concert Hall For tickets, call 316.683.3444

Reader said that, although he has loved his time living abroad, he is ready to make a return to the states. “It’s been a colorful time; FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

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JERSEY RETIREMENT CEREMONY Sunrise Christian Academy Sunrise Christian Academy retired the No. 11 jersey worn by alumnus Lourawls “Tum Tum” Nairn Jr., head coach of SCA’s post graduate basketball program. Originally from the Bahamas, Nairn was a highly sought Division I prospect during his days as a Sunrise Buffalo. He played four seasons for the Michigan State Spartans before joining the Phoenix Suns’ coaching staff in 2018.

The jersey retirement ceremony was part of SCA’s Sunrise Madness event to kick off the Buffaloes’ basketball season. See the schedule at sunrisechristianhoops.com.

Lourawls “Tum Tum” Nairn Jr., Monalisa McKinney, Laquan Nairn

Lourawls Nairn Jr., Kyle and Anita Lindsted, Daniel Marklewitz

Patrick Wolz, Ivan Leal, Lourawls Nairn Jr., Kyle Lindsted, Luke Barnwell and Spencer Dexter

Sunrise Academy athletes with Lourawls Nairn Jr.

Sydney Hick, Ashleigh Morton, Janay Dill

The Brown family

Tia Bodine, Jarad Stubbs, Tatum Jones, Ivan Leal

Tia Bodine, Jarad Stubbs, Tatum Jones, Ivan Leal

Bob and Rosie Dool, Jeannie and Sandy Dillard, Nancy and Glenn Kubina, Deb and Richard Coe

Jeremy and Kaycee Adair

Patricia Sherwood, Joe Johnson, Howard Sherwood, Bill Hanna

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FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

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I’m still learning new scenarios all the time and love my job, meeting new families and helping them into their next home. I’m happy to welcome a new baby boy to my family – now it’s really time for 6th gear as I strive for a great 2022. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you.

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My passion is getting you the best deal possible when it comes to your home loan. I do this by making banks compete and give us their best offer.

Marketing is one of my greatest loves in life, and I was very proud to get Phoenix Mortgage involved as a community sponsor with CASA of Sedgwick County. CASA is a non-profit helping kids in our community who need an advocate on their side in court. Growing up in Peck, Kansas, the old-school values of hard work and honesty were instilled in me from a very young age. I use these principles along with faith and determination in every challenge I face. There is no goal that can’t be achieved with a proper plan and guidance, and I would love to be your guide through the home loan process.

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FANTASTIC FOOD FINDS IN ‘ICONIC EATS OF WICHITA’ Written by Julie Hying Combining a love for food and cooking with a lifetime of writing experience … magic. The author of “Wicked Wichita” and long-time writer, cook and food enthusiast Joe Stumpe has done it again, writing a brilliant book ruminating on the rich history of our beloved city with interesting anecdotes and personal accounts in addition to sharing outstanding recipes.

Stumpe’s new book, “Iconic Eats of Wichita,’’ focuses on something that sustains life, brings people together, is part of celebrations and parties, and can speak volumes about someone’s upbringing, culture Photo by Patz or preferences. Cooking and the city coalesce in this unique cookbook where the author, a discerning food critic, looks at local dishes Kansas. He and his wife, Carrie Rengers, love cooking together and prepared with expertise and dedication. dining all over the city. He also enjoys teaching culinary classes at Mark Arts. Enjoy these two featured recipes, just a small taste of “Iconic Eats of Wichita.”

“I hope the book turns people on to some food, recipes and restaurants they’ve never tried before.” – Author Joe Stumpe

“Iconic Eats of Wichita” has the feel of a cooking journal, yet tells stories, shares cultures, and highlights beautiful aspects unique to the city of Wichita. A few recipes are well known to locals, but many lie in wait, like hidden treasures, longed for by some and now waiting to be discovered within the pages of this book. It is available in local bookstores and an autographed copy can be ordered directly by emailing Stumpe at jstumpe@cox.net.

This collection of stories, histories and recipes includes a variety of cooking styles and cultural influences, and boasts chapters dedicated to three specific cuisines that have shaped the city’s restaurant landscape: Hispanic (El Pueblo, Mi Pueblo), Mediterranean (Middle East Meets Middle West) and Asian (Friend of Pho). Other sources that inspire the city’s restaurants and dishes include French, Italian, Greek and German food traditions.

Initial sections of the book speak about early cooks in the area and how they prepared hearty, delicious foods for family members. It tells tales of days gone by and some of the origins of the dishes Wichitans have loved and grown up with. Other highlights such as Restaurant Reveals feature many local dining establishments that prepare delectable dishes. For cocktail enthusiasts, the book’s chapter To Your Health, offers crafted cocktail options to enjoy in the new year.

In addition to his two books, Stumpe has written about food, chefs and cooks as well as restaurants in “The Wichita Eagle” and “SPLURGE!” for a number of years. He serves as the editor of “The Active Age,” a local publication distributed throughout parts of 74

Bagatelle: Manoushi

Olive oil 1 pita loaf 1/3 cup halloumi, feta or mozzarella 1 small tomato, sliced 1 tablespoon freshly chopped herbs, such as oregano, thyme or basil Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Brush olive oil over pita loaf. Slice cheese into thin pieces and place on pita loaf. Top with tomato and herbs. Put pita loaf on a lightly oiled baking sheet and bake until the cheese melts and the edges of pita start to brown, about 5 to 7 minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Restaurant 155: Seared Salmon

1/4 cup olive oil 2 salmon fillets, about 8 ounces each 1 teaspoon kosher salt 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper Preheat oven to 500 degrees. Heat oil over medium heat in an oven-proof pan. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper and sear in pan for 45 seconds to 1 minute on each side or until a crust forms.

Remove pan with salmon from burner and place in oven for 7 to 8 minutes or until done.

FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

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Dating Really Can Be

Fun, Fruitful & Efficient!

With the Help of The Date Maven Written by Julie Underwood Burton

Most of us likely first celebrated Valentine’s Day as a child when we exchanged homemade valentines at school. Finding our romantic match seemed quite simple then, because we often met our future sweethearts at church, in school, or they might have been a neighbor and sometimes even children of our parent’s friends.

The art of dating certainly has gone through significant changes over time. One of the biggest shifts happened twenty-plus years ago when instant messaging and dating apps created what seemed like endless pools of potential partners and instant contact could be made round-theclock. Today, our daily realities have shifted again because of Covid, which has singles reconsidering what dating looks like in this new world. The good news is that the pandemic has encouraged many to pursue a partnership in a more intentional way and prompted others to consider more broadly what they want out of their relationships and lives.

Wichita’s relationship coach and The Date Maven founder Suzanna Mathews, along with her life partner and coach, Michael Rivera, helps singles navigate the complicated aspects of modern dating. Seeing an increase in the demand for their services, Suzanna states, “People have become quite lonely, and that loneliness became very acute during isolation, which actually drove people to try online dating. But when they did not particularly care for the online experience, that drove more interest in relationship coaching and matchmaking.”

The Date Maven is Wichita’s only locally owned dating and matchmaking service. According to Suzanna, “It was no accident that we officially opened our business on February 14, 2011.” She believes what sets their services apart from others is how they can offer a unique perspective from both a female and a male viewpoint. Plus, other dating services do not offer the component of relationship coaching, which has proven critical to successful, long-lasting relationships.

From dating audits and strategy sessions to power opening sessions and online dating profile makeovers, clients can work with either coach and most often choose to participate in The Date Maven’s popular and exclusive six-month relationship coaching program. This one-on-one coaching program begins with a Dating Audit and Strategy Session and clients have weekly focused coaching calls or may 76

Suzanna Mathews Michael Rivera

accompany their coach on an experiential field trip. A threemonth “jumpstart” program is offered to individuals who have had previous coaching. All clients receive a personalized plan identifying online and offline social strategies.

The Date Maven coaches are also expert matchmakers who introduce couples based on extensive compatibility profiles, and create personalized action plans designed with comfort, security and privacy needs in mind. Courtship is their specialty and they have been quite successful matching couples for over 11 years.

If you are ready to find love, The Date Maven is ready to help you fine-tune your dating skills and match you with your next valentine. On their website, you will find an array of services available and a queue to schedule a free 20-minute exploratory call with coach Suzanna or coach Michael. Be sure to subscribe to their newsletter for dating and relationship tips, and watch for upcoming singles mixers and event announcements. Go to thedatemaven.com.

Where To Find Them The Date Maven

200 N. Broadway, Suite 110 Wichita, KS 67202 suzanna@thedatemaven.com thedatemaven.com

FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

Featured Listing

14100

E

PINNACLE W I C H I TA

DR.

67230

• 5 Bedrooms

$2,075,000

• 9 Bathrooms • 11,427 SF • 1.4 Acres Double Lot on Crestview Golf Course

PHONE: EMAIL: WEB:

3 1 6. 5 1 8.0 02 8 la n d ers o n @ weig a n d .co m

lis a a n d ers o n .weig a n d .co m

FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

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You Drop It Off. We Sell It Online!

DO YOU HAVE GENTLY USED ELECTRONICS, JEWELRY OR DESIGNER BAGS YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT TO DO WITH? WE HANDLE EVERYTHING FROM THE MOMENT YOU WALK THROUGH OUR DOOR AND GET YOU PAID QUICKLY.

9530 S. Rock Rd. | 65 acres | $845,000

A LAPTOP SELLS EVERY 40 SECONDS! ELECTRONICS HOUSEWARES VEHICLE PARTS & ACCESSORIES

JEWELRY ANTIQUES MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS COLLECTIBLES HIGH-END CLOTHING MEMORABILIA & ACCESSORIES (SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT)

AND MUCH MORE! 37th & Woodlawn | 316.684-EBAY | www.myedrop.com

STEM

CREATION ROOM

©2021 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.

Science Technology Engineering Mathematics

STEM Activities for Kids that will Foster Curiosity!

Mon-Friday · 9am-12pm For more information call: 316.650.4021 thecreationroom.wixsite.com/info FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

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STEARMAN SANTA BREAKFAST 2021 Stearman Field Bar & Grill, Benton

Stearman staff: Maegan Bull, Santa, Brianna Morgan, Alyssa Schnitker, Erin Rousseau

Kayla and Harper Brumley

The Roth family

Delilah and Carson Yenor

The Kossen family

The Ramsey family

The Keith family

Full house at Stearman Field

The Moon family

The Kerri family

The Hummel family

The Murphys and Santa

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FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

You Drop It Off. We Sell It Online!

DO YOU HAVE GENTLY USED ELECTRONICS, JEWELRY OR DESIGNER BAGS YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT TO DO WITH? WE HANDLE EVERYTHING FROM THE MOMENT YOU WALK THROUGH OUR DOOR AND GET YOU PAID QUICKLY.

A LAPTOP SELLS EVERY 40 SECONDS! ELECTRONICS HOUSEWARES VEHICLE PARTS & ACCESSORIES

JEWELRY ANTIQUES MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS COLLECTIBLES HIGH-END CLOTHING MEMORABILIA & ACCESSORIES (SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT)

AND MUCH MORE! 37th & Woodlawn | 316.684-EBAY | www.myedrop.com

DON’T BE FOOLED BY YOUR DIRECT WRITER After 33 years of loyalty to Allstate Insurance, I sold my agency and bought a franchise from We Insure.

Multiple A+ companies to give a range of options!

Here are some important coverages to have: HOME INSURANCE Loss Forgiveness and decreasing deductibles replaces the whole roof, siding, and painting of home.

Earthquake insurance. (My old company didn’t have that coverage)

It’s a good time to review your insurance because the cost of goods sold has increased so much!

Ross Viner, Agency Owner

AUTO INSURANCE Accident forgiveness and decreasing deductible.

316.600.0520 Ross.Viner@weinsuregroup.com WeInsureRossViner.com

Call Ross Viner for a Review!

FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

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EAGLE SCOUTS IN ACTION

Eagle Scout Class of 1946 Fred Berry

Fred Berry almost let his Eagle Scout Award get away, but thanks to a little friendly competition from his younger brother, the farm boy from southern Illinois earned the Boy Scouts’ highest rank just shy of his 18th birthday. Wichitans know Berry, 93, as the founder and owner of Berry Companies, including Berry Tractor, Berry Material Handling and multiple Bobcat dealerships.

When the young Berry left for the University of Illinois in the fall of 1945 at age 17, he still needed a merit badge or two. “I wasn’t as committed as I should have been,” he said. “But while I was away, my brother who was two years younger completed his. We were far more competitive than I realized, because I wasn’t about to let him be an Eagle and me not.” So the elder Berry managed to earn the remaining merit badges in college, receiving the award in the spring of 1946. Boys must achieve the rank before their 18th birthday.

Berry never had an Eagle Scout Award ceremony that he can remember, so a few years ago, fellow Eagle Scouts Brian Nastase, Jim Grier and Paul Attwater held one for him and awarded him an Eagle Scout pin.

Berry said earning the Eagle Scout rank instilled in him qualities that helped him be successful in business and in life – things like goal setting, selfconfidence, morality and service to God and country.

“In Scouting, you’re always trying to reach the next goal; sadly some kids miss learning that,” Berry said. “If you have a tendency to have a lack of self-confidence, Scouting can help that. Looking back, there was a lot more benefit than I realized at the time as a kid.”

Most of all, for a couple of farm boys like Berry and his brother, attending Boy Scout meetings was a source of pleasure during the war years. Said Berry, “It was great fun having those activities every week.”

Quivira Council and Morgan Stanley are proud to bring you Eagle Scouts in Action, a monthly showcase of community leaders who are banding together to make a difference in our community!

Quivira Council was incorporated on March 11, 1918, chartered by the Rotary Club of Wichita. Since then, it has been our honor to instill in the youth we serve the values and traditions that make Boy Scouts of America stand apart in the crowd. If you are interested in joining Scouting or have an Eagle Scout in Action you think deserves honoring, call us at 316.264.338

facebook.com/QuiviraCouncil

quivira_council198

www.quivira.org

Nothing says

“I Love You” more than a new rug!

7310 W. MAPLE

682-0033

In the Horton’s Carpets Building Professional Rug Cleaning 82

WichitaRugs.com M-F 10-5 / Sat 10-2 FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

SPLURGE! NIGHT AT METRO WITH CHEF JEFF Metro Appliances & More Butternut squash soup, beef filet, garlic whipped potatoes, and a spiced apple dessert warmed up foodies on a cold evening at SPLURGE! Night at Metro.

Wichita favorite Chef Jeff Owen prepared a perfect winter dinner while Standard Beverage Sommelier Karl Lakin introduced new wines with each course. If you missed out, don’t worry: The next SPLURGE! Night at Metro is Feb. 23. Purchase tickets by calling 316.267.3678.

Eileen Kludt, Celia and Mark Ralston, Nancy Knapp, Cheryl Wells

Angela Pirner, Dianne Cork, Ami Schlader, Angela Weidenbener, Jessica Dunbar

Jennifer McCrae, Lindsey Hall, Cindy Rowsey

Bonnie and Dave McElroy, Tracy and Nancy Drosselmeyer

Terry and Jody Klein, Amy and Brian Palser

Janell Sawyer, Deb Haney, Penny Brungardt, LouAnn Prusa

Dawn Long, Noami Arnold

Standard Beverage sommelier Karl Lakin serves Mark and Celia Ralston

Mike and Rene George, Debi Devor, Dennis and Briley Mullins

Sara Keen, Mary Reed, Tawnya Anderson, Linda Conrady

Nancy Tully, Shelly Cannady, Paul Mainz

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FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

Night at Metro February 23, 2022

FEATURING

COOKING DEMONSTRATION · WINE TASTING · A NIGHT OF FUN!

Chef Zach With a culinary degree and over 25 years in the industry, Zachary Hettenbach of FlutterBye Catering brings skills, passion and commitment to the art of preparing and sharing a memorable food experience. His motto is "Anything, Anywhere, Anytime – Almost!” Hettenbach and wife Shannon run FlutterBye Ranch near Leon, on land settled by Shannon’s family in 1899, featuring a newly constructed wedding/events center on acres of mature timber and prairie.

Join us at:

Catering by:

Metro Appliances & More 3545 N Hillside St, Wichita

Metro Mingle 5:30-6:30 Chef demonstration begins at 6:30 Call 316.267.3678 for reservations $50 per person (must be 21 or older)

FLUTTERBYE RANCH

FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

FlutterbyeRanch.com

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For 50 years Cheney Door Company has been Kansas’ leader in residential and commercial garage door installation and service.

We Do So Much More Than Garage Doors • Entry doors • Replacement windows • Door and window screens • Dog doors • Gates and openers • Security and surveillance • Smart home services • And more!

See why so many people choose Cheney Door. www.cheneydoor.com · 316.262.2198

34 years in business

Call for a FREE Winter Special estimate! Mention this ad and receive 10% off!

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FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

Your

GO to Realtor Genaro Ocasio 5 Bed / 3.5 Bath MLS# 606168

PENDING FOR LEASE

1,500 sq ft off Maize Road near NewMarket square.

MLS# 603117

SOLD

1551 N. Waterfront Parkway, Suite 301 Wichita, KS 67206 · 720.620.9929 genaro@reecenichols.com genaro.ReeceNichols.com

FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

87

SIERRA SCOTT GREEN ROOM DEDICATION KPTS Channel 8 Guests who are waiting to appear on television at PBS KANSAS Channel 8 will have the honor of spending those waiting minutes in the Sierra Scott Green Room. The room named in Scott’s honor is at KPTS’s new building at 8710 E. 31st St. N. in Wichita. Scott’s friends and family members gathered recently for the room’s dedication at KPTS, where Scott was a television host for 12 years.

88

June Meusburger, Sierra Scott, Harrison Schenk

Rob and Lynn Jones, Deb Mason, Cayla and Brent Wasson

Chelsea Blake, Perry Schuckman

Terry and Jody Klein, Mzia Gibson, Sheila and Joe Tigert

Eileen Kludt, Nancy Knapp, Cheryl Wells

Sierra Scott, Hugo Castillo, Jennifer Pitt

Sharon Mathis, Barbara Baan

Betty and Lola Jones, Kate Catanese, Sierra Scott, Shawna Horsch

Amy and Bryan Carey

Charlie and Mary Moon

Christopher and Sheryl Gulick

FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

When Making The Biggest Purchase Of Your Life, You Should Know Your Lender.

A little about me: I grew up in the small town of Mulvane, Kansas. Raised by a single mother, I didn’t realize how beneficial being pushed to early independence would be. I was able to buy a house at age 19, and after that experience I knew real estate was a career path for me! I had the opportunity to get taken under Adam Hamilton’s wing as a loan originator, soaked up as much knowledge as possible and still work under him today.

I’m still learning new scenarios all the time and love my job, meeting new families and helping them into their next home. I’m happy to welcome a new baby boy to my family – now it’s really time for 6th gear as I strive for a great 2022. I look forward to the opportunity to work with you.

Chayse Cowan

Loan Officer, NMLS#1608804

– 316.461.3616

My passion is getting you the best deal possible when it comes to your home loan. I do this by making banks compete and give us their best offer.

Marketing is one of my greatest loves in life, and I was very proud to get Phoenix Mortgage involved as a community sponsor with CASA of Sedgwick County. CASA is a non-profit helping kids in our community who need an advocate on their side in court. Growing up in Peck, Kansas, the old-school values of hard work and honesty were instilled in me from a very young age. I use these principles along with faith and determination in every challenge I face. There is no goal that can’t be achieved with a proper plan and guidance, and I would love to be your guide through the home loan process.

Ryan Lee

Marketing Director / Loan Officer, NMLS#1785584

– 316.744.5819

Phoenix Mortgage is dedicated to making your home buying experience hassle free! We proudly offer excellent rates and even better customer service – reach out today to get started.

Kansas licensed mortgage company the Phoenix Mortgage Group, Inc. MC.0001205 NMLS# 323881

Lower Rates. Make Us Prove It.

240 N. Rock Rd. Suite 280 · Wichita, KS 67206 · 316.942.8228 · phoenixmortgagegroup.com FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

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KITCHEN TUNE-UP CAN WORK MAGIC IN YOUR KITCHEN, TOO MANY REMODELS COMPLETED IN ONLY 1-5 DAYS!

BEFORE

Refacing • Cabinet Painting • Redooring • Custom Cabinets 1 Day Tune-Up • Countertops and Backsplash • And More

Options beginning as low as $99 - $249 a month!

316.558.8888 | kitchentuneup.com 90

FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK

Local Company Serving Local Community

FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

91

Unique Selection of Vessel and Stone Sinks, Wine Racks, Fire Pits, Fire Glass, and Kitchen and Bath Remodel

Nordic Stone

Granite and Quartz from around the World.

Scott Bishop - Owner

9720 E 50TH ST NORTH · BEL AIRE KS 67226 · AT THE HOT CORNER OF 50TH & N WEBB RD · 316.214.0771

CARPET CHANGES EVERYTHING

EAST

WEST

NEW MARKET

13th & Greenwich

Maple & Ridge

29th & Maize

shop in-store or online at HortonsCarpets.com 92

FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

Looking to Buy or Sell?

Get experienced assistance with your home, Lindi Lanie knows the market.

Call Lindi today and get started with the experience of a 25 year veteran in the Real Estate Industry.

Your search begins at LindiLanie.com (316) 312-9845 lindi@reecenichols.com

FREE ROOF

You could qualify for a FREE roof!

Must have homeowners insurance and own your home.

316.670.0750

300 W. DOUGLAS · WICHITA, KS 67202 FLINTHILLSROOFINGCO.COM · FLINTHILLSROOFINGCO@GMAIL.COM FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

93

Love Your Kitchen Even MORE!

Call Today To Fall Back In Love With Your Storage Spaces!

For you Free Design Consultation call 316-768-8808

SlideoutShelfSolutions.com Showroom by appointment 2969 W 13th St N

FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

95

CHRISTMAS PARTY Pella Windows & Doors

Heather Bachelor, Andee Higgins

Jim and Adrienne Knight, John and Betsy Noel

Dominick Willoughby, Zach and Hannah Osterman, Ted Bennett, Charles Wakes

Mackenzie Lomshek, Corbin Francisco, Brandon and Kelli Sims

Lauryn Hanson, Mason Baysinger, Nicole and Michael Weaver, Jake and Haley Burpo

Retail sales team

Serena and Chris McGinn, Jess Brearton and Judy Moody

Tim and Laura Royer, Michael and Lora Smith

Brandon and Danielle Trostle, Crystal and Austin Moots, Steve Parker and Lori Yarbrough

Margaret and Paul Mrozik, Gary and Linette Carroll, Chris and Serena McGinn

Rick and Dana Collins

Warren and Sherri Hardy, Larry and Judy Cox, Reta Foley

96

FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

RAINBOW OF POSSIBILITIES When Exploring options for a new front door we offer Steel, Fiberglass and Solid Wood options.

Call for your free consultation today 316-686-6900 or Toll Free 877-807-5593 15% off Qualifying Pella Projects OR 0% for 72 Months. Offer good thru February 28, 2022.

Not Just Kitchen & Bath Remodeling

By Nahid Holmes | Design Source Interiors

Full Interior Design Services Including:

Furniture · Accessories · Large Rug Selection · Custom Window Treatment · Bedding · Art

98

FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

Call for a FREE in-store design consultation to turn your home into your dream home.

316.733.7080

Your Unique Design for Your Unique Home

316.733.7080 Weatherstone Village 736 N. Andover Rd., Andover KS dsiandover.com FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

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• Limit one food and free play offer per stay • Offer valid for new club members, 21 and older only • Limited availability, call hotel for full details

FEBRUARY 2022 · splurgemag.com

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SPLURGEMAG.COM

Opera Man Wichita native returns to lead WGO

FEBRUARY 2022