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1 al e r 2 r c e 20 ne len inn e l G ce W x d E ar w A
Vol 42 • No. 12
All-female biker club rides for fun and friendship
ACTIVE AGING PUBLISHING, INC 125 S West St., Suite 105 Wichita, Ks 67213
Nonprofit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Wichita, KS 67276 Permit 1711
By Amy Geiszler-Jones When Janice Friedman saw four women bikers roll up to a HarleyDavidson dealership in Wyoming, she was intrigued. “I’d never seen women Harley riders before. But I was the last person you would ever guess would do that,” Friedman said. “I won’t lie, I was kind of high maintenance.” In fact, she didn’t even enjoy riding as a passenger on her husband’s bike. “It messed up my hair,” she said. But there was something about seeing women in command of all that horsepower that resonated with her. She turned to her husband, who had bought his first motorcycle in the 1990s, and told him she intended to learn to ride her own bike. His response: “You only want to do that
www.theactiveage.com Kansas’ Largest Newspaper
November 2021
Heels on wheels
Members describe the club, which started in 2004, as a fierce support group that enjoys organized rides, social gatherings and charitable work. “I have sisters, but the Krome Kitty club has brought another set of sisters that I didn’t know I needed,” said Jennifer Patterson, one of the newest members of the group. “The support is unreal.” Creating the club Friedman signed up for a motorcycle safety course not long after visiting that Harley dealership in Wyoming. “Some people take to it naturally,” said Friedman, who retired as manager of the Hite Fanning & Honeymoon law firm in 2015. “I was not that girl.” After a few months of riding, however, she was hooked. Photo by Joe Stumpe “I just can’t describe the The Krome Kitty Motorcycle Club gathered in Derby last month. satisfaction and empowerment,” Friedman said. biker wardrobe, she also founded and for the cute clothes.” In 2004, Lori Gibbs, a neighbor leads an all-female biker club, the In the 18 years since, not only has See Kitty, page 12 Krome Kitty Motorcycle Club. Friedman accumulated an impressive
Social media? Yes, with reservations
By Debbi Elmore After more than a decade on Facebook, Flossie Alexander can speak with experience about the good and bad aspects of social media. “In the beginning, I was drawn to Facebook as a means to promote my business as a life fitness coach,” Alexander, who joined in 2009, said. “I soon discovered that I enjoyed getting to know people from all over the United States. In the early days, Facebook was less political and more focused on establishing connections. I was amazed at how willing people were to share details of their lives with people they would likely never meet in person. Maybe knowing they would never meet in person made it easier to share. In the beginning, I would spend three or four hours a day on Facebook. Today, I would say I spend only three to five hours per week on it.” Alexander, who has almost 5,000 Facebook friends, also uses Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat from the time to time, Retired school administrator Rod Milne said social media is too political but good for a "few See Social, page 14 laughs from memes."
Questions about services?
Central Plains Area Agency on Aging/Sedgwick County Department on Aging: 1-855-200-2372
Butler County: (316) 775-0500 or 1-800-279-3655 Harvey County: (316) 284-6880 or 1-800-279-3655
Page 2
the active age
November 2021
November Briefs New AARP state director announced
TOPEKA — Glenda DuBoise has been named director of the AARP Kansas State Office. She will oversee operations of the Kansas state Glenda DuBoise office, which includes a staff of four full-time employees and an eightperson volunteer advisory Executive Council. AARP has nearly 300,000 AARP members statewide. Glenda succeeds Maren Turner, who served in the role for more than 20 years. A graduate of Washburn and Baker universities, DuBoise most recently served as executive director of the Topeka Center for Peace and Justice and is also immediate past Volunteer President of AARP Kansas. “I am looking forward to serving with the strong Kansas team to keep the momentum going and our mission
advancing,” she said in a news release from AARP.
McCormick School Museum open house
The McCormick School Museum, 855 S. Martinson, will hold its Christmas open house from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5. Musical performances are planned by several school groups, and building tours will be available. There will also be tours offered from 2-5 p.m. Dec. 4.
Alternative gift market to be held Nov. 13
The 27th annual Wichita Alternative Gift Market will take place from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 13 at Hillside Christian Church, 8330 E. Douglas. The market offers people the chance to make tax-deductible donations to more than 30 causes — such as U.S. food pantries and school supplies in developing countries — in honor of family and friends, then present them with a greeting card
describing the project being supported. Last year’s market raised $32,000, of which $2,900 went to four local nonprofits: First Presbyterian Breakfast Mission, Grace Presbyterian Bus Pass Ministry, National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)-Wichita, and Camp Sunflower, Inc. Online shopping is available
now through mid-December at https://alternativegifts.org/giving/ crowdfunds/99. In-person shoppers receive complimentary onarments representing their sponsored causes. The market will also feature local charities, fair trade items and Peace Corps wall calendars. CDC guidelines will be followed.
NOTE TO READERS: The Active Age has experienced some problems with its mailing list for subscribers recently. If you or someone you know has not received an issue of The Active Age, please contact us by calling (316) 942-5385 or emailing joe@theactiveage.com.
Like us on Facebook! Visit our website www.theactiveage.com for updated information.
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November 2021
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Page 3
The Active Age takes general excellence, first place awards
SAN DIEGO — The Active Age won the 2021 General Excellence and Best of Show awards from the North American Association of Mature Publishers, the group announced at the annual NAMPA convention held here last month. The awards were for publications with more than 50,000 circulation, with entries judged by journalism faculty at the University of Missouri-Columbia. Other awards won by the newspaper include:
First place, Senior Issue, Amy Geiszler-Jones, for an article about parents and grandparents drawn Geiszler-Jones into domestic
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disputes, which appeared in the April issue. First place, COVID-19related article, Mary Clarkin, for an article about nursing home deaths, which appeared in the July 2020 issue. First place, How-To Feature, Bonnie Bing, for helpful and lighthearted tips on dressing for older women, which appeared in the June issue.
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First place, Column/Book review: Ted Ayres, for book reviews that focus on Kansas subjects. Ayres
Clarkin
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First place, Personal Essay, Ted Blankenship, for humorous look at hard-to-open packaging, which appeared in the October 2020 Blankenship issue. Second place, Profile, Nancy Carver Singleton,
for profile of music store owner and musician Phil Uhlik, which appeared in the August 2020 issue. Second place, Feature, Amee Bohrer, for an article about grandparents turning a beat-up camper into a grandkids getaway, which appeared in the July 2020 issue. Second place, Topical Issue, Joe Stumpe, for an article about longtime civil rights advocates, which appeared in the July 2020 issue. First place, Senior Resource Guide, The Active Age, for its 2020-21 55+ Resource Guide. First Place, Special Section, The Active Age, for its Thrive special section honoring difference makers in the community, which appeared in October 2020.
Wichita West 9125 W Central Ave, Wichita, KS 67212 (316)779-8700 Central Wichita 739 W 13th St N, Wichita, KS 67203 (316)262-6703 Derby 824 N Baltimore Ave, Derby, KS 67037 (316)425-0057
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Page 4
the active age
November 2021
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The active age, published the first of each month, is distributed in Butler, Harvey and Sedgwick counties. To subscribe, call 316-942-5385, write the active age or visit theactiveage.com.
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November 2021
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Page 5
Thankful for the memories and so much more By Mary Corrigan When I was asked to write the Thanksgiving column this year, I admit to having a few moments of panic. There are so many things I am thankful for, and Corrigan so few column inches to work with. Though I will be stepping down as president of The Active Age’s board of directors in December, I will always be thankful for the experiences I’ve had with it and the people I’ve gotten to know. The people first. The newspaper staff ( Joe Stumpe, editor, Mike Parker, advertising manager, and Tammara Fogle, business manager)
Carol Ablah Carole Campbell Al Alliston Phyllis Carr Claziena Alvarez Susan Carroll Juanita Ast Jo Ann Christy Paul Babich The Conrads Charles Bagshaw Barbara Cowl Joan Barrier Nancy Crandall Charlotte Bates Chong Croft Diane Bebak Larry Cross Mary Ellen Beckham Robert Cummings George Beran Jessie Dean Donna Bickham Jerry Decker Craig Bloom Linda Destasio Betty Boyd Alma Dunn David Calvert Nina Eberhart
From the Editor are so organized it made it easy to serve as president. The members of the board (Tim Marlar, Linda Matney, Diana Wolfe, Harry Clements, Shana Gregory, Lona Kelly, Julie Schaar, and Sharon Van Horn) always offered their time and talents to make The Active Age a success. The work of the staff and board is aided by so many volunteers each month it is impossible to name them all, but I am thankful for each and every one of them. I am also thankful for our readers and everyone who has been able to make a donation, no matter how small, to The Active Age. Your care and concern help us ensure a quality and timely publication each month. And
speaking of quality, you will read in this issue about national awards that The Active Age recently won. I am proud of the staff and all the writers whose stories were recognized. I am thankful for each edition of the paper that includes items about the history of this area. Although born and raised in Kansas, there are many things I had forgotten about. A few months ago, a story about the Innes Tea Room really struck a personal chord with me. I remember being so excited when my parents treated us to a lunch there. I am thankful for the recipes that appear in each issue of the paper, even if I’ve gained a few pounds trying some of them out. On a very personal level, I am thankful that as I write this, I have my right arm back. Last Christmas
Thank You Recent Donors!
Nancy Farmer Daniel Fisher Mr. & Mrs. L.J. Ford Donald Fraizer Booker Gilbert Gerald Gray Joyce Gregg Thelma Guinty Mardith Hammond Tricia Hanning Beth Harris Paul Harrison Neal Harrison Jr. Jo Ella Hartman Sheila Hatcher
Karen Henschel Suzanne Herzberg Bernie Hess Patricia Higgs Ausbie Hook Phyllis Irby Linda Jield Lyla Keith Joyce Kent Robert Kozicki Ronald Lauppe Lucy Lavelle Bernardita Ligons Helene Longhofer Phil Lovchik
Nadine Mae Carol Malashchuk Janet Malcom Timothy Marlar Shirley Marsh Lewis Martin Terry Mason Paulette Mattingly Jerry Maxwell Sherry Mccoy W. David McDonough Louis Medvene Jeanne Mendoza Gordon Michel Judith Michel
Eugene Sommerhauser Jean Spalding Gay Spradlin Stanley Springsteen Thomas Steele Gloria Strong Barbara Thimesch Sandra Tholen Suzanne Thomas Carol Tucker Celia Turner James Urban Nancy Vine Chinh Ngoc Vu Marjorie Walton
Donna Neufeld Florene Nickel Maria Novak Carolyn Peterson Theresa Pitzer Wesley Provines Karen Rector Roy Rufenacht Kathie Sartin Thomas Schaefer Pamela Schrag Elizabeth Shockley Joan Smith Janice Soden Kay Sommerfield
Day I fell and fractured my shoulder in four places. I spent nine weeks in a torturous shoulder immobilizer and then months of therapy to get movement back. It is bizarre to say I am thankful for the experience of the fracture — the first bone I’ve ever broken — but the experience made me more appreciative of family and friends. Special kudos to my sister, Susie, who took care of me through those nine weeks. I think my column inches are used up now, so I’ll close by wishing each and everyone of you a very happy Thanksgiving. Editor’s note: Although Mary Corrigan is stepping down as our president, she has agreed to stay on as a board member for the time being, and we are very thankful for that.
Nancy Ward J. Dean Wasser Anne Welsbacher Mary Alice Wiard Mary Willoughby Donald Winton Janis Wooley Geneva Younger Rena Younger Corrine Zimmerman
Honor Roll of Donors Elaine Aaron Anna Anderson Mickey Armstrong Roy Baker Richard Brandorff Phyllis Burch Jon Callen Karen Combs Hazel Cook Carol Copeland Mary Corrigan
Elvira Crocker John Davis Ruth Anne Ellis Carol Flower Earl Fouse Mary Lou Freach Susan Fritemeyer Judith Froman Constance Gaston Carroll Gunter Sue Ann Halliday
Barbara Hammond Irene Hart Marlene Hayes Jo Ann Hetrick Allan Higdon Joan Hogan Sally Hoofer Martha Housholder Martha Hund Theresa Johnson Anita Jones
Carol Jones Keith Kohlmeier Clifford Leighton Treva Lichti Barbara Lofstead John Lysell Linda Mann L. Jane McClenny Pauline McGreevy Mary McKenney Diane Meitner
Rose Marie Mintz Linda Morris Kent Moxley Berneil Mueller D. O.Rourke Diana Peak Esther Reed Ann Rempel Robert Rives Janine Schenck Dennis Schmidt
Dianna Schmitt Mary Ann Shaft Mary Singleton Stephanie Skillman Maryann Skolaut Ruth Smock Lynn Stephan Betty Strickland Patricia Sullivan James Todd Christie Triplett
Wallace Uttinger Vera Vaughn Barbara Wade Diane Warta Paul Weigand Marilyn Wells Roxe Yarbrough Douglas Young Dennis Zitterkopf Pistotnik Family Trust
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the active age
November 2021
It’s time to shop and compare Medicare plans for 2022
By the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Medicare’s Open Enrollment period gives those who rely on Medicare the opportunity to make changes to their health plans or prescription drug plans, pick a Medicare Advantage Plan or return to Original Medicare. The Medicare Open Enrollment period occurs every year from Oct. 15 through Dec. 7, with coverage changes taking effect Jan. 1. During this time, people can find a plan that better meets their needs, saves money, or both. Medicare plans can change year to year. Medicare’s official website, Medicare.gov, makes it relatively easier to compare coverage options and shop for plans. People can do a side-by-side comparison of plan coverage, costs,
and quality ratings to help them more easily see the differences between plans. Here are some things to consider when shopping for Medicare coverage: • Check if doctors are still innetwork and prescriptions are on the plan’s formulary. • Realize that the plan with the lowest monthly premium may not always be the best fit for specific health needs. • Look at the plan’s deductible and other out-of-pocket costs that factor into total costs. • Know that some plans offer extra benefits, like vision, hearing, or dental coverage, which could help meet individual health care needs. • Consider whether Original Medicare or a Medicare Advantage Plan is the best choice.
Where to find info and help Here are four ways you can compare plans and look at savings options: • Find plans at Medicare.gov and do side-by-side comparisons of costs and coverage. • Call 1-800-MEDICARE. Help is available 24 hours a day, including weekends. • Access personalized health insurance counseling at no cost, available from State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). Visit shiptacenter.org or call 1-800-MEDICARE for each SHIP’s phone number. Many SHIPs also offer virtual counseling. • Check eligibility for Medicare Savings Programs. People with Medicare facing challenges paying for health care may qualify for Medicare
Saving Programs run by their state. These programs can help save money on premiums, prescription drugs, and other health care costs. If your income for 2021 is below $18,000, it may be worth contacting your state’s Medicaid program about help that may be available to you. Contact 1-800-MEDICARE to find out where to apply. For more information, visit Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-6334227). TTY users can call 1-877-4862048. Help is available 24 hours a day, including weekends.
For a look at Medicare.gov ratings of Plan D drug and Medicare advantage plans, see next page.
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November 2021 MEDICARE
the active age Page 7 RATINGS These quality and performance ratings are taken from the government’s official Medicare website, medicare.gov. Unless otherwise noted, all plans are available in Butler, and Harvey and Sedgwick counties. These quality performance ratings are taken from the official Medicare website, medicare.gov. Unless otherwise noted, all
MEDICARE PLAN RATINGS
plans are available in Butler, Harvey and Sedgwick counties. Ratings are based on 5 stars, with 5 being best. Medicare Advantage plan ratings Plan D drug plan ratings AARP MedicareRx Preferred (PDP) AARP MedicareRx Saver Plus (PDP) AARP MedicareRx Walgreens (PDP) Blue MedicareRx Plus (PDP) Blue MedicareRx Value (PDP) Cigna Essential Rx (PDP) Cigna Extra Rx (PDP) Cigna Secure Rx (PDP) Clear Spring Health Premier Rx (PDP) Clear Spring Health Value Rx (PDP) Elixir RxSecur e(PDP) Humana Basic Rx Plan (PDP) Humana Walmart Value Rx Plan (PDP) Mutual of Omaha Rx Plus (PDP) Mutual of Omaha Rx Premier (PDP) SilverScript Choice (PDP) SilverScript Plus (PDP) SilverScript SmartRx (PDP) Humana Premier Rx Plan (PDP) Wellcare Classic (PDP) Wellcare Medicare Rx Value Plus (PDP) Wellcare Value Script (PDP)
3.5 stars 4 stars 4 stars 4 stars 4 stars 3.5 stars 3.5 stars 3.5 stars 2 stars 2 stars 3 stars 4 stars 4 stars 3.5 stars 3.5 stars 3.5 stars 3.5 stars 3.5 stars 3.5 stars 3.5 stars 3.5 stars 3.5 stars
Eric R. Yost RETIRED DISTRICT JUDGE
AARP Medicare Advantage Choice Plan 1 (PPO) AARP Medicare Advantage Patriot (PPO) AARP Medicare Advantage Plan 1 (HMO-POS) AARP Medicare Advantage Plan 2 (HMO-POS) Aetna Medicare Eagle (HMO-POS) Aetna Medicare Elite (PPO) Aetna Medicare Premier (HMO-POS) Aetna Medicare Premier Plus (PPO) Ascension Complete Via Christi Access (PPO) Ascension Complete Via Christi Access Plus (PPO) Ascension Complete Via Christi Reward (HMO) Ascension Complete Via Christi Secure (HMO) Blue Medicare Advantage (PPO) Blue Medicare Advantage Choice (PPO) Blue Medicare Advantage Comprehensive (PPO) HumanaChoice H5216-032 (PPO) HumanaChoice H5216-033 (PPO) HumanaChoice H9070-004 (PPO) HumanaChoice R4845-001 (Regional PPO) HumanaChoice R4845-002 (Regional PPO) Humana Gold Choice H8145-120 (PFFS) Humana Gold Choice H8145-122 (PFFS) Humana Gold Plus H0028-013 (HMO) Humana Honor (PPO) Humana Value Plus H0028-018 (HMO) Lasso Healthcare Growth (MSA) Lasso Healthcare Growth Plus (MSA) Medica Prime Solution Core (Cost) Medica Prime Solution Premier (Cost) Medica Prime Solution Thrift (Cost) Wellcare Assist (HMO) Wellcare Giveback (HMO) Wellcare No Premium Open (PPO) Wellcare No Premium (HMO) Wellcare Patriot Giveback Open (PPO) Wellcare Premium Hybrid Open (PPO) P Plan too new to be measured PP Not enough data available PPP Plan not available in Sedgwick County
4 stars 4 stars 4.5 stars 4.5 stars 4.5 stars 4 stars 4.5 stars 4 stars P (see below) P PP PP 3.5 stars 3.5 stars 3.5 stars 4 stars 4 stars 3.5 stars 3.5 stars 3.5 stars 4 stars 4 stars 4.5 stars 4 stars 4.5 stars 2 stars 2 stars 4 stars PPP 4 stars PPP 4 stars PPP 3 stars 3 stars P 3 stars P P
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Page 8
the active age
November 2021
Warning: Don’t read this column!
By Ted Blankenship Today I’m writing a column that I hope you don’t read because it’s about how to write a column, and I’m afraid that if you read it, you’ll write a column that’s better than this one, and I’ll be out of a job. Nevertheless, as a fearless journalist, I’m going ahead with it because I think it’s the right thing to do. First, if you plan to write a column, you will need to know what the subject of your column is going to be. As a seasoned journalist, I have discovered that ideas for columns are everywhere. The problem is that not all of these ideas are suitable for column subjects. Let’s say you read an article about the Russians finding a frozen mastodon,
say, in Siberia, and you’re thinking, why not do a hilarious column on making meatloaf out of a frozen prehistoric animal that looks like an elephant? You may not believe this, but there are several problems with this idea. One is that the Russians may have plans for the mastodon that don’t include making a very large meatloaf. You would also have a problem getting the animal to a conveniently located oven. Besides, any oven you would find in Siberia probably would not be large enough to accommodate an elephantsize animal, particularly a frozen
one. So maybe we should just drop the frozen animal thing as a column. But if you persist in using this idea, you need to know that if your readers follow through and make the meatloaf, they’ll be faced with a serious hair problem. Mammoths were covered with shaggy hair — a lot of shaggy hair. Before we leave this fascinating subject, you need to know that the name mastodon means “nipple tooth.” I know what you’re thinking, “Oh, boy, I’ve found a fantastic idea for a column.” Alas, I have to tell you that the name has nothing to do with what you think it does. “Nipple” refers to the shape of the mastodon’s molar teeth. What did mastodons otherwise
By Laura Olson Kansas Reflector WASHINGTON — A federal vaccine advisory panel has endorsed a second dose of Johnson & Johnson’s one-shot COVID-19 vaccine, meaning millions more Americans are expected to soon join the line for booster shots. Anyone who received a J&J shot at least two months ago will be eligible for an additional dose, under the committee’s recommendation. The Food and Drug
Administration is expected to follow the advice of its advisory panel. Formal guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also is required, and it’s expected to occur as soon as next week. Authorization of the second dose will essentially turn the one-dose J&J vaccine into a two-shot regime like those from Pfizer and Moderna, which use a different type of technology to spur the immune system to create antibodies.
That FDA advisory panel vote came a day after the same group of independent vaccine experts recommended a third dose of Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine for older and higher-risk adults. That same population also has been recommended to receive a third dose of the Pfizer shot to ensure better protection against infection. The one-dose shot from J&J’s vaccine division, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, initially was approved
look like? They resembled a modernday elephant but had smaller ears and trunk, longer tusks and something that looked like a toupee on the head. Not attractive, perhaps, but they didn’t deserve to become a meatloaf. In any case, this idea for a column has now been taken. Contact Ted Blankenship at tblankenship@cox.net.
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November 2021
Kansas guidebook likely to inspire road trips “100 Things To Do In Kansas Before You Die,” by Roxie Yonkey (Reedy Press, 2021, 176 pages, $19.95)
By Ted Ayres For some 28 years, Kansas was the state I drove through to get to Colorado, the home of the rival Jayhawks (I am a proud Mizzou grad) and the place an 18-year-old Missourian could buy beer back in 1965. However, meeting and falling in love with a young woman from Cottonwood Falls provided me with a new appreciation for Kansas, which has been our home since 1986. I am thrilled every time I drive through the Flint Hills. Now, a new book called “100 Things To Do In Kansas Before You Die” has me itching to explore even more of Kansas with book in hand. Author Roxie Yonkey provides a fun, entertaining and informational guide to the Sunflower State. Of course, many of the 100 places were familiar to me. We’ve seen Jackson Browne perform at the Stiefel Theatre in Salina. I was present when
the Hattie McDaniel commemorative marker was dedicated in Wichita. And I took our three sons to Hutchinson to experience the Cosmosphere when they were young. Marcia and I spent some time in Dodge City on our honeymoon. We have stayed at the Grand Central Hotel in Cottonwood Falls and enjoyed the food at Ad Astra in Strong City. However, I had not heard of the Kansas towns of Scammon, Altoona, Lincoln, Marienthal, Athol, Weskan, Canton, Codell, Lebanon or Bennington or the attractions located therein. I was not aware that The Shepherd’s Mill in Phillipsburg manufactures yarn and fabric from a zoo’s worth of animals, from alpaca to yak. I did not know the origins of “Rock Chalk, Jayhawk,” that Council Grove founder Seth Hays was Daniel Boone’s great-grandson or that Elk
Falls is the Outhouse Capital of the World. I did not know that the Battle of Punished Woman’s Fork was the U.S. Army’s final battle in Kansas. Thanks to Yonkey, I am now informed that Charles H. Hyer invented the cowboy boot at his Olathe shoe shop in 1875 and that C.W. Parker produced about 1,000 carousels at his factory in Leavenworth before it closed in 1955. This book is a trove of information about Kansas and Kansans. The book is divided into five main sections: Food and Drink, Music and Entertainment, Sports and Recreation, Culture and History and Shopping and Fashion. Altogether, the book describes many more than 100 things to do or places to visit. Each page offers a travel tip, and Yonkey also provides suggested itineraries and a list of activities by season. Any list like this is going to be
incomplete. I think the omission of the Kansas History Museum in Topeka is a glaring omission (Full disclosure: I serve on the Board of the Kansas Historical Foundation). I would have also considered mentioning the Wichita Art Museum, WichitaSedgwick County Historical Museum, Stearman Field Bar & Grill Restaurant in Benton, the Historic Ritchie House in Topeka, 1904 Carnegie Library in Lawrence and the wonderful independent bookstores of Wichita (Watermark Books) and Council Grove (Flint Hills Books). Yonkey has lived in and written about Kansas for more than 30 years and, according to her bio, “loves road tripping on roads less travelled." Her writing shows an appreciation for people and history and a charming insight for the unusual and quirky, but with an underlying respect and appreciation for Kansas and its residents. But be warned: Read this book, and you’ll be motivated to take to the highways and byways of this state we call home. Contact Ted Ayres at ted.ayres@ shockers.wichita.edu.
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Page 12
the active age
Kitty
From Page 1 who’d seen her tooling around the neighborhood, joined her on her rides. Then another friend joined the two. Friedman had a logo created and T-shirts made. By the end of the 2004 riding season, the Krome Kitty club had grown from three riders to 31. It now has an entire line of club-logoed gear, available for members to purchase through the club’s website. It is, as far as members know, the area’s only club restricted to women riders. Male significant others and spouses are allowed to join Krome Kitty riders once a season for the club’s annual Tom Kat ride. “Over the years, 140 women have found us and joined us,” said Friedman, whose biker name is Queenie. She’s put her skills as a former human resources director and law firm manager to work, keeping detailed club records. The club currently has 50 active members; 21 are ages 55 and older. Kathryn Langrehr, 70, who started riding at age 50, is the oldest club member, followed by members who are 69 and 68. “I was thrilled to find a group
November 2021
Pictured on page 1: Janice Friedman, in front, and other members of the Krome Kitty Motorcycle Club prepare to depart Derby on a ride. Left to right, second row, are Kathryn Langrehr and Melaina Phares; third row, Sonja McCall, Cindy McGuire, Pat Sherry and Bobbie Cole; third row, Nellie Taylor and Lily Nordyke.
of women riders,” said Langrehr. together four years ago. Langrehr, who retired in October “I instantly felt like these are my from an accounting career in the oil people. Every single person was kind and gas industry, rides with two other and welcoming.” motorcycle clubs, often as the lone Meow Mixers woman rider or one of just a few. The club holds organized monthly “I think women are easier to ride rides of about 100 to 120 miles from with. Believe it or not, the guys have a April to October, weather permitting, lot of drama sometimes,” Langrehr said as well as “Meow Mixers” in which with a laugh. She moved from Kechi members meet up for dinner or lunch. to outside of Hutchinson five years ago Members also get together during but still attends as many Krome Kitty the winter to stay connected. Those activities as she events are can. usually held at Kim the Douglass Jones, a nurse Avenue in a Wichita Assembly of medical clinic God or the who has Fire and Iron been riding Motorcycle motorcycles Club, which is for 34 years, considered a said she felt sort of sibling a connection club. The Fire unlike any and Iron club’s other when she membership went to her consists Neighbors Janice Friedman, right, and first Krome of active Lori Gibbs were the club's first two Kitty getand former members.
Many members' bikes feature decorative elements. firefighters. “We’re so entwined that I don’t feel the riding season really stops,” Jones said. “We’re still together, just not on bikes.” Usually, the club does one bigger annual trip, riding about 500 miles over three days. Destinations have included Pueblo, Colo., and Route 66 in Oklahoma. Membership costs $40 annually and is open to women who have taken a motorcycle safety course or have had an active motorcycle license for two years. Locally, safety courses are offered by Motorcycle Rider Education driving school in Wichita and the Twister City Harley-Davidson dealership in Park City. To remain an active member, See next page
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November 2021
Patricia Sherry, left, and Kathryn Langrehr are the club's two most senior members. members must take part in at least two organized rides a season. Members who record perfect attendance for the riding season are rewarded with a Kit Kat candy bar. To kick off each riding season, the club holds a bike blessing each April. Since 2020, the Krome Kitty club has been supporting Family Promise of Greater Wichita, a national charity that works with faith-based communities and groups to provide shelter, meals and other support services to families without a home.
the active age The club helps the Douglas Avenue church provide meals, overnight hosts, financial support and more. The club has also raised money for the Women’s Family Crisis Center in Wichita. Patterson, who scored major mom points with her 10-year-old daughter when she joined the motorcycle club, said her daughter sometimes accompanies her when volunteering for Family Promise, providing an opportunity for another generation to witness the power of sisterhood and helping others in the community. “We support each other on and off the road,” said Langrehr. Raising awareness Creating a safe environment for her fellow club members is paramount to Friedman. The club’s motto, according to its website, is safety first, fun second. Every year, the club has an annual safety meeting during its Kitty Konference. No alcohol is allowed during club rides. Recently, a club member was involved in an accident that resulted in a leg amputation. The member had been riding alone on Douglas, Friedman recounted, when a car turned into her path. The rider swerved to avoid hitting the car head-on but still struck it, suffering the catastrophic injury to her leg. Also this year, another member received compound wrist
Page 13
fractures and facial injuries when a car did a U-turn in her path. The accidents have served as reminders to club members to stay vigilant, Friedman said. “You have to assume every car and truck is out to get you,” she said. Friedman said she is creating an awareness campaign for vehicle drivers to pay attention and be mindful of motorcycle riders. “I want drivers to understand that person isn’t just a biker. It’s someone’s daughter, mother, sister. True enough there are bikers that give us a bad reputation, who take off screaming down the road, but not everyone rides like that.” ‘You’re not too old’ Jones, the youngest member interviewed for this article, said she enjoys the intergenerational relationships she’s forming with her fellow Krome Kitty members. “For me, having that older generation of women involved in the club helps me mature,” said Jones, who said she was surprised to learn
Langrehr was 70 when the club celebrated her birthday during its September ride. “I had never looked at her as being 70.” Langrehr herself said she doesn’t look like someone a passerby would pinpoint as a biker. “I do not have a single tattoo. I look like a little old lady you’d meet at church. Most people are shocked to find out I ride. I didn’t start this as a young person, either. Sometimes, people get the idea that I’m too old to do that. Well, if you can do it, you’re not too old. That goes for any hobby or anything else. Sometimes you don’t have the time or money when you’re younger to start something.” Contact Amy Geiszler-Jones at
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the active age
Social
From Page 1 mainly to share things with her daughters. Although widely regarded as a tool for youth, many older adults have discovered that social media provides a quick, easy and free way to keep in touch with the world. Threequarters of adults aged 50-64 use social media on a regular basis, while about 45 percent of those 65 and older do so, according to a 2019 report from the Pew Research Center. Facebook is the most popular platform, followed by Instagram and LinkedIn. Older Americans most often sign on to social networks on smartphones (55 percent), followed by computers (47 percent) and tablets (41 percent). By most accounts, the COVID-19 pandemic sent even more people onto social media. For instance, when the Covid pandemic forced her west Wichita assisted living residence into lockdown, 90-year-old Janice McVicar relied on social media to maintain contact with her extended family and friends. She enjoys looking at family pictures and hearing about important events in their lives. As popular as it has become,
even those who use social media on a daily basis point to some problems with it. “I would say the pitfalls of social media are that while it increases communication with strangers or casual friends, it can get in the way of communication and intimacy with the people who are the closest to you,” Alexander said. “Who has not been in a restaurant and noticed a family sitting together not saying a word to each other because everyone’s face is buried in their phones? On the plus side, it is a great way to find and reconnect with friends from the past.” Alexander’s husband, David, is on Facebook and YouTube (considered a form of social media because people can post comments on it) although he was slow to engage at first. “I simply wasn’t convinced that there was anything so interesting about my life that people would want to know about it,” he said. “Over the last five years I have become fairly active on Facebook. It has been a great way to stay connected with former coworkers and friends I don’t get to see on a regular basis. It is also a great way to send funny and interesting things to my children through the Facebook Messenger feature. Like it or not, I have had to accept that social media is
November 2021
the way my children’s generation likes to communicate. “From a work perspective, I have come to realize that it is a great way to connect with the community,” he added. “Nearly every week I post information on what is happening at work, such as events we are hosting or stories of people doing great work. When their baby granddaughter contracted cancer, both Alexanders turned to Facebook to keep concerned family and friends informed of her progress. Fortunately, the little girl is now getting along fine. “The down side to social media is that now reflects just how politically divided and sensitive our country currently is,” David Alexander said. “Social media has emboldened some people to be more disrespectful than they would be in person. Social media that was designed to bring people together is now used to separate people.” With a laugh, Alexander admits he “used to complain about how much time my wife spent on social media and now I spend way more time on social media than she does.” “Watching YouTube videos has replaced watching a lot of TV for me. I especially like to watch historic videos. I also have a couple of podcasts that I enjoy listening to. Despite my use of
Rita Kirkpatrick of Newton checks in on social media. social media, if I could snap my fingers and go back in time to when we didn’t have it, I would do it. It is a strange paradox that something designed to increase communication has increased isolation for many and had a detrimental effect on their mental health.” Nevertheless, it’s a trend that shows no sign of slowing down. “I initially joined Facebook because I found out there was a group created for my high school friends and classmates,” Janene Schroeder, a substitute teacher from Sedgwick, said. “They were posting many old pictures and comments from people I grew up with. So it became a connection platform to link up with this group. This interest still holds true for me See next page
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November 2021 today after nine years of being a member.” Rita Kirkpatrick, a church secretary at First United Methodist Church of Newton, uses it for a variety of reasons. “I like to keep track of some of my casual friends,” she explained. “I have enjoyed getting to know two siblings of my classmates. I love to hear when someone’s child wins the spelling bee. Social media helps me keep track of dance events in my area and food events and fundraisers. I like to post about my trips after I get back. Facebook groups have helped me organize family reunions and gatherings of Wednesday women.” Betty Fry, who is in her 90s, believes Facebook is popular partly because “everyone is so busy anymore, so this is easier for everyone. I also belong to several quilt groups and
the active age enjoy following them, and of course book reviews and discussions. Oh yes, and new recipes.” Rod Milne, a retired Wichita school administrator, uses social media but said it’s not a big part of his life. “Except for a few laughs from memes, I don’t get much benefit from social media,” Milne said. “I am only on Facebook, and I have no desire to add more. “I don’t remember how I decided to join Facebook – probably when the grandkids were little, and Facebook was a good way to keep track of what they were doing,” he added. “Today, it is so full of politics and ads that I only glance at recent posts four or five times a day. Most of my phone time is spent googling stuff I want to know and two games of solitaire before I turn off the lights.”
Page 15
Celebrations Irvin and Nadine Palmer celebrated their 75th wedding anniversary Oct. 5. Irvin served in the U.S. Army and retired from Montgomery Ward. Nadine retired from the Wichita Shirt Co. They have three children — Rita Randall, John Palmer and Gena Payer — nine grandchildren and two greatgrandchildren.
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the active age
November 2021
Scammer steals $100,000 from Wichita woman The Active Age A Wichita woman recently lost more than $100,000 in what’s known as the “Miscrosoft scam,” District Attorney Marc Bennett’s office said. The scam works by fooling people into thinking they need technical support from Microsoft. The scammer telephones the intended victim pretending to be a technician or engineer from Microsoft or a related company, or manages to send a fake pop-up warning message to the victim’s personal computer. The victim is told they have a virus or other problem with their Windows-based computer that needs to fixed. They may be asked to provide personal information, call a phone number or click on a link. The Wichita victim, who is in her late 70s, receive a message on her
computer which included a phone number. When she called it, the person who answered told her that her Social Security number had been compromised and that for security reasons, she needed to transfer money out of her bank account. The caller said Microsoft would then “clean” her computer of a virus that had attacked it. The woman was also told that other people were listening in on her phone calls. The woman went to her bank and withdrew several large sums. When a teller asked her why she was doing that, she responded, “These are investments for my family.” The scammer had suggested she use that explanation if anyone from her bank questioned her about the withdrawals. The woman transferred the money to
accounts as directed by the pretended Microsoft engineer. The calls between the woman and scammer lasted from July to September. Before the woman’s family discovered what was going on, she had lost more than $100,000. Bennett’s office is trying to recover the money but said it’s “very rare that lost funds are able to be retrieved in cases like this.” The Microsoft scam has been around since 2009. According to Bennett’s office: • Microsoft will never proactively reach out to you to provide unsolicited PC or technical support. If you receive a phone call claiming to be from Microsoft, or see a pop-up window on your PC with a fake warning message and a phone number to call and get your “issue” fixed, it’s better to be safe
Brian Grimmett KMUW Your natural gas bill is going to go up this winter. Natural gas prices run nearly double what they did a year ago and experts predict the increased prices to last at least through the winter. Utility companies pass the cost
of natural gas directly on to their customers. As the price of wholesale natural gas increases, so will the fee your utility charges every month. For Kansas Gas Service customers, that fee this month is $5.67 per thousand cubic feet of gas used. Last October it was only $3.76. Other large gas utilities have made
similar increases. The Atmos Energy gas purchase fee this month is nearly $1.50 more than last year. At Black Hills Energy it’s more than $3 more. “Right now, what we see is a relatively tight market, and higher prices signalling that more (gas) supplies are needed on the market,”
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and not click any links or provide any personal information. • Never call the number provided in the error message. Real Microsoft error messages never include a phone number to call.” That information is at the top of Microsoft’s security page. • To avoid scams, hang up the phone if you receive an unsolicited call from someone asking for personal information, or if the caller asks you to wire money, mail cash, or put money onto gift cards. • If you are the victim of a scam it should be reported to local law enforcement. said Richard Meyer, vice-president of the American Gas Association that represents natural gas utilities. The U.S. Energy Information Agency said the price will likely remain high all winter. If it does, the average Kansan could see a monthly bill increase as much as $100 higher than last year.
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the active age
The Active Age needs your help updating our calendar! Please call Joe at 316-942-5385 or email joe@theactiveage.com with your current schedule.
Calendar of Events Sedgwick County Senior Centers
Note to readers: Senior center schedules and other events normally listed on this page are expected to be affected by the coronavirus through November. For information, call the numbers listed below. BEL AIRE 7651 E Central Park Ave 744-2451, ext 121 www.belaireks.org BENTLEY/EAGLE 504 W Sterling, 796-0027 CHENEY 516 Main, 542-3721 CLEARWATER 921 E Janet, 584-2332 DERBY 611 N Mulberry Rd, 788-0223 www.derbyks.com DOWNTOWN 200 S Walnut, 267-0197 www.seniorservicesofwichita.org EDGEMOOR 5815 E 9th, 688-9392
GARDEN PLAIN 1006 N Main, 535-1155 GODDARD 120 N Main, 794-2441 HAYSVILLE 160 E Karla, 529-5903 KECHI Kechi City Building, 744-0217, 744-1271 LA FAMILIA 841 W 21st, 267-1700 LINWOOD 1901 S Kansas, 263-3703 www.seniorservicesofwichita.org MCADAMS GOLDEN AGE 1329 E 16th, 337-9222 MT HOPE 105 S Ohio, 667-8956
Butler County Senior Centers ANDOVER 410 Lioba Dr, 733-4441 www.andoverks.com AUGUSTA 640 Osage, 775-1189
CASSODAY Cassoday Senior Center 133 S. Washington, 620-735-4538
BENTON Lion’s Community Bldg, S Main St
EL DORADO 210 E 2nd, 321-0142
DOUGLASS 124 W 4th, 746-3227
Senior Wednesdays
NOTE: DUE TO CORONAVIRUS, THE SENIOR WEDNESDAY SCHEDULE FOR NOVEMBER IS INCOMPLETE. FOR MORE INFO, CHECK SENIORWEDNESDAY.ORG OR CONTACT THE HOSTING VENUES. Nov. 3 ropolitan Area Planning Department, 1:30 pm Museum of World Treasures discusses distinctive architecture found The Cost of Beautification, presented by in Wichita. Kaysey Richardson. This lecture will discuss Call (316) 261-8500 or register online. the beautification movement that swept the United States and wcompare early Nov. 17 beautification with gentrification in large 10 am Ulrich Museum of Art. cities. In-person: Free for members, $4 Tour the Ulrich Collection Study Center, a for non-members. Virtually via YouTube space for visitors to encounter works from Livestream, $2, free for museum members. the Ulrich’s permanent collection with Nov. 10 head of education Jana Erwin, curator Ksenya Gurshtein and registrar Jo Cox. 10 am Sedgwick County Zoo. Polar Adaptations. $4. November 24 1:30 pm Advanced Learning Library. No Program 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM | Zoom Kathy Morgan, Senior Planner for the Met-
Dances
Derby Sr Center, 611 Mulberry. El Dorado Jam & Dance, Senior Center, 210 E 2nd. Goldenrod Golden Age, 1340 S Pattie. Linwood Golden Age, 1901 S Kansas. Minisa Golden Age, 704 W 13th. Info 617-2560. Mulvane, 101 E. Main (Pix Community Center Second Tuesday of every month at 7-9pm. Oaklawn Activity Center cafeteria, 4904 S Clifton. Info: iamgary48@yahoo.com. Orchard Park Golden Age, 4808 W 9th.
www.seniorservicesofwichita.org
OAKLAWN 2937 Oaklawn Dr, 524-7545 ORCHARD PARK 4808 W 9th, 942-2293 seniorservicesofwichita.org PARK CITY 6100 N Hydraulic, 744-1199 VALLEY CENTER VC Community Center 314 E Clay, 755-7350
LEON 112 S Main, 745-9200 or 742-9905 ROSE HILL 207 E Silknitter, 776-0170 TOWANDA 317 Main, 776-8999 Open 10:30 am-5 pm Mon, Wed, Fri WHITEWATER Legion Hall, 108 E Topeka
Harvey County
www.seniorwednesday.org
Augusta Sr Center, 640 Osage. . Info: 755-1060
MULVANE 632 E Mulvane, 777-4813 NORTHEAST 2121 E 21st, 269-4444
Park City Sr Center, 6100 N Hydraulic. Info: 755-1060 Prairie Wind Dancers: Plymouth Congregational Church, 202 N Clifton. Joyce, 683-1122.
Oaklawn Activity Center, 4904 S Clifton. Info: Nick, 529-2792, or Mike, 650-2469. wichitacontra.org. Westside Steppers Square Dance, 1st and 3rd Sunday of each month at the Sedgwick County Extension Building at 21st and Ridge Road. Contact: Sheldon Lawrence (316) 648-7590 or countrycaller@cox.net for furher information. Wichita Solos Square Dance, For Info email: Curtis, wichitasolos@yahoo.com.
BURRTON 124 N Burrton, 620-463-3225
HALSTEAD 523 Poplar, 835-2283 HESSTON Randall & Main, 620-327-5099 www.hesstonseniorcenter.com GRAND CENTRAL 122 E 6th, Newton, 283-2222 www.grandcentralseniorcenter.com SEDGWICK 107 W. Fifth, 772-0393
Transportation Sedgwick County
Sedgwick Co Transportation, 660-5150 or 1-800-367-7298. Information: 8 am-5 pm, Mon-Fri; closed most holidays. www. sedgwickcounty.org/aging.
Butler County Transit
Weekday transportation in El Dorado, Augusta and Andover. Rides to Wichita on Wed, Thu. Information: Augusta, 775-0500; El Dorado, 322-4321; toll free, 1-800-2793655. 48-hr notice required.
Harvey County
Transportation reservations or information: 316-284-6802 or 1-866-6806802. Round-trip: $8 Newton (wheelchair only), $12 Harvey County, $20 outside Harvey County. AVI to Newton: Tue, 12:304:30 pm from Burrton, Sedgwick, Halstead, Hesston, Walton.
www.theactiveage.com
Page 17
NOTE: AGING PROJECTS, INC. PLANNED TO MAKE FRIENDSHIP MEALS AVAILBALE THROUGH PICK UP AND DELIVERY IF NECESSARY. FOR INFORMATION, CONTACT YOUR LOCAL MEAL SITE OR CALL 316-681-4440
Friendship Meals Aging Projects serves a hot, nutritious meal weekdays for persons 60 and older in Sedgwick, Harvey and Butler counties. Reservations are necessary. For locations and reservations, call 620-669-8201. WEEK OF NOVEMBER 1 Mon: Mexican beef soup, pea salad, pineapple, snickerdoodle cookie, cornbread. Tue: Chicken & cheese casserole, mixed green salad, dressing, mandarin oranges, garlic bread. Wed: Pork roast w/ gravy, mashed potatoesw/gravy, mixed vegetable, pears, bread. Thu: Creamed chicken over biscuit, broccoli/ cauliflower/ carrot salad, peaches, mixed fruit crisp. Fri: goulash, hominy, strawberries, garlic bread. WEEK OF NOVEMBER 8 Mon: Tuna bake w/ tartar sauce, macaroni & cheese, spinach, strawberries. Tue: Chili, crackers, combination salad, dressing, pears, cinnamon roll. Wed: Easy chicken & broccoli pie, carrots, pineapple, sweet muffin. Thu: Beef roast, mashed potatoes w/ gravy, green beans, mixed fruit, pumpkin spice pound cake, wheat roll. Fri: Brunswick soupw/ crackers, black eye pea salad, peaches, gelatin. WEEK OF NOVEMBER 15 Mon: Pork patty on biscuit w/ creamy gravy, potato wedges, tomato salad, banana. Tue: Liver & onions in gravy or beef cutlet in gravy, mashed potatoes w/ gravy, parslied carrots, mixed fruit, wheat roll. Wed: chicken salad on a bun, broccoli cheese soup, hot spice peaches, applesauce gelatin. Thu: Turkey, mashed potatoes w/ gravy, green beans, cranberry sauce, pumpkin spice square. Fri: Spaghetti w/meat sauce, combination salad w/ dressing, ,pineapple, garlic bread. WEEK OF NOVEMBER 22 Mon: Chicken fried steak, mashed potatoes w/gravy, mixed vegetable, applesauce, roll. Tue: BBQ pork on bun, cabbage salad, baked beans, apricots. Wed: Harvest turkey soup, crackers, hot buttered beets, peaches, molasses cookie. Thu: Holiday. Fri: Holiday. WEEK OF NOVEMBER 29 Mon: Meatloaf, baked potatoes, broccoli, blushing pears, roll. Tue: Tuna Noodle casserole w/ peas, cole slaw w/ carrots, peaches, wheat bread. * Milk is served with all meals.
FUNDING MADE POSSIBLE THROUGH THE OLDER AMERICANS ACT, KDADS AND CENTRAL PLAINS AREA AGENCY ON AGING
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the active age
November 2021
Classified Advertising
F CEMETERY PROPERTY FOR SALE F
F ESTATE SALES F
Lakeview lots. Everlasting Life Lawn Crypt. C-4 space 10. Sold out area in Lakeview. $4,500. 316-839-2301
CUSTOMIZED ESTATE SALES GREATER PROFITS WITH LESS STRESS Insured with 20 years experience Free Consultations 316-806-7360 Julie
Two Mausoleum Crypts plots, Lakeview Gardens (K-96 and 13th) Peace Garden, Level D, Space 3&4. $4,995/each OBO Please call 316-641-7199 Single Plot – Resthaven Cemetery – Garden of the Cross 46A1 $5000 OBO Email: arkpegram@cox.net OR 479-644-6680 Serious inquires only Resthaven Garden of Gospels double lawn crypt with bronze marker. Value $10000 sell $6000. Seller pays transfer fees. Call 316 293 9442 Plot in White Chapel. It has a vault already paid for. Asking $500 and buyer pays $500 Catholic cemetery 1640 N. Maize Rd Wichita, Ks 67212. Niches # 53&54. Call 316-258-4118. White Chapel, Garden of Devotion. Lot 49-B, plot 4. Buyer pays $299 transfer fee. Asking $2,000. Call/Text 316-655-6667 2 side by side plots Lakeview Veterans First. Includes granite and bronze markers. Value $7,500, sell for $6,400. 316-686-6500. Resthaven. 4 plots in Garden Sermon on the mount. Lot 149-D spaces 1,2,3&4. $2,000 for all 4. Jsbp7983@gmail.com or 813-486-1952.
IPK Enterprises Estate Sales. Know your options, you have many. Please call us for a free consultation. 316-806-3435.
HAVING TO DOWNSIZE? MAKE MONEY DOING IT! TOP Wichita Auction
–
F GROOMINGF
• 316-932-8524•
Professional Dog Grooming Over 5 year experience with certification Single owner/operator One-on-one with pet Call or text 316.243.6020
F FOOT CARE F Cheryl Rosine ~ The Foot Lady ICMT RN Benjamin Jones ~ CNAICR $40: In-home, Sedgwick & surrounding counties Diabetic, thick toe nails, ingrown & callous care Foot Care in home. Home visit $40.00 Call Francine at 316-943-4360. Leave a message.
F FOR SALEF
Downsizing? Don't have an Auction, or Estate Sale. We Buy Entire Estates, Storage Units, Garages, Barns, Sheds. Call Kelly 316-283-8536. Furniture Warehouse 200 Main Newton, KS
F FURNITURE F
F HOME CARE F Private Duty Aide with light house keeping. Availability evenings and weekends. References upon request. Cynthia CNA/HHA 316-992-6711
Sisters Dependable caregiver for elderly person in their home. Alzheimer's & Dementia. Cleaning, cooking & meds. Weekends, night, days or overnight. 30 years’ experience. 316-390-9526
F HELP WANTEDF ATTENTION JOB SEEKERS – AGES 55+
Place your ad today! Call 316-942-5385 Deadline for the Dec. issue is Nov. 10
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO DELIVER MEALS ON WHEELS
• 316-312-2025 •
www.topwichitaauction.com
Resthaven Gardens, plot #38-C-2, prime location in front of the Praying Hands. Value is $4,200. Asking $1,500 OBO. Seller pays transfer fee. Maggy Thompson 702-254-5024
Prairie Express Courier and Delivery Services • Will deliver packages, crates, parts, etc., • Transport people for errands such as grocery store, airport, doctors’ appointments, etc. Call/Text 316-640-6327
F HELP WANTED-VOLUNTEER F
FOOT CARE IN YOUR HOME
Dave Dvorak * 316-641-5690
Lift Chair. Chocolate in color. Used very little. $500. 316-686-6122. Leave Message.
F COURIER SERVICESF
F HELP WANTED CONTF
Retail Store, answering phones, waiting on customers, run errands Call 316-945-4722
Routes are open each weekday to deliver a lunchtime meal. Thursday & Friday has the most open routes. If interested please visit our website at https:// seniorservicesofwichita.org/meals-onwheels/ and fill out then submit the application online at the bottom of the page. No walk ins please. All volunteers must be prescreened prior to delivering routes.
White Chapel Memorial in Last Supper Section. 3 adjoining lots 292B Spaces1,2,3. Value $6,300. Sell $3,300/all.Transfer fee included. 316-990-5442.
F CLEANING SERVICESF
Place an ad: 942-5385
The Senior Employment Program’s Job Club is meeting in person again. EVERY TUESDAY at 1:00pm. Call 267-1771 for details.
EARN BIG COMMISSION
Outside Sales Rep Wanted in Butler & Harvey Counties We are looking for a self motivated person who would like to make some extra $$$ promoting the active age. Must be comfortable with cold calls.
Call Mike at 613-3547 or email mike@theactiveage.com
F HOME IMPROVEMENTS F Dave’s Improvements Painting—interior/exterior. Doors and windows replaced, grab bars, wheelchair ramps. All general repairs. Guaranteed lowest rates. Senior citizen discount. Lic #7904. 316-312-2177 Molina Electric - Wichita Lic #1364 Comm. or Residential wiring. Service calls. New electric service. Troubleshooting. Cell 316-461-2199. Handyman RX- We have a remedy for almost all of your “fix-it” jobs! Light carpentry including deck and fence repair, indoor misc. repairs and installations, lawn mowing “LG or SM”, Yard & Garage clean-up, mulching, hauling, ect, what you need done I can probably handle. Call for HELP! Brian 316-217-0882. Free Estimates
JS Guttering & Construction
F HOME IMPROVEMENTS CONTF Cowboy Construction Remodeling, siding, decks, fences, windows, doors and more. 20 years locally owned. Free estimates. Senior discounts. Todd Wenzel 316-393-4488 VERY AFFORDABLE Walk-in Showers & Tubs Bathe Safe & FEEL SAFE!! "Tub to Shower Conversion Specialist" CALL 316-633-9967 - SENIOR DISCOUNTS www.bathroomheadquarters.com
Derby, Haysville, Mulvane, Rose Hill, Wichita. Exterior & Intereior. House painting, siding, decks, fences. Build, repair and stain. Free Estimates and references. See us on angieslist.com. Keith Kimball 316-250-2265 or 316-789-9639 Be Blessed. Thank you. MOBILE GLASS REPAIR Windows * Patio * Doors Windows won’t stay up, Crank Outs, Patio Rollers and Lock Latches, Morris Glass & Service, 316-946-0745
Beard & Son Concrete Construction Drive ways, sidewalks, patio and landscaping. Dirt work and more. Licensed * Bonded * Insured
I bid’em to get’em!
Steve 316-773-9320/316-259-0629
Roofing – Windows – Siding A Reliable General Contractor Senior Discount
316-361-2787
garywilbertroofing.com garywilbertroofing@cox.net
5"-6" SEAMLESS GUTTER WHOLE HOUSE PAINTING SIDING & WINDOWS
Call Josh for an estimate
316-393-8921
SENIOR HELPING SENIOR FORSHEE MASONRY- 50 Years Any Brick, Block, Stone Repair Sidewalk Leveling
Heating/AC, Plumbing Light Electrical, Drywall, Painting, Tile, Basic Home Repairs Licensed & Insured 25% Senior Discount
Senior Discount
RICK 316-945-8751
PLUMBCO
Compare Our Prices Weekly Plumbing Specials
Ins/Lic #5803
www.theactiveage.com
316-942-1967
*Small fee for Pickup outside of City Limits
November 2021
the active age
Page 19
Classified Advertising
Place an ad: 942-5385
F HOME IMPROVEMENTS CONT F
F HOME IMPROVEMENTS CONT F
F LAWN AND GARDEN CONTF
S & V Concrete
AGAPE CONSTRUCTION
Fall Leaf Clean-up, Over seeding, Verti-cutting and Lawn aeration. 316-821-6341
Snow Removal Steps, porches, patios, sidewalks, driveways & garage floors. Also 4-inch steps with 18-inch landings for seniors. Licensed, bonded, insured. Free estimates
Steve 992-6884
Total Concrete Services
Westside Lawn Service Fall cleanup. SNOW REMOVAL Bush and hedge trimming, bed work,mulching, gutter cleaning, handyman , odd jobs and hauling 30 years experience. Free estimates. 316-339-4117.
Locally Owned by Pastor Steven Blalock 10% off Senior/Military Discount
807-8650
www.agaperoofingandconstruction.com
AGAPE ROOFING
316-945-9473
Residential/ Commercial
Fall Leaf Clean-up • Verticutting/Overseeding Senior Citizen Discounts Bush Trimming • Gutter Cleaning & More! • Family Residential and Commercial owned and operated with over • Painting for Interior and 30 years experience and fully insured! Exterior
Three Generations of Local Roofers Quality Work – Fair Prices Residential & Commercial
• Power Washing 316-737-4890 • Some Home Improvements Free
F PAINTING F
Call for Free Roof Inspection Locally Owned by Pastor Steven Blalock Licensed & Insured
316.312.4391
K & A Maintenance Experts We specialize in the following
Wheel Chair Ramps • Landscaping • Remodeling Decks • Safety Hand Rails
FREE ESTIMATES
All General Maintenance and Repairs Please call Jesse at 316-854-7642
Ballard Plumbing ALL PLUMBING REPAIRS • FREE estimates • Senior Discounts
Affordable Painting
Licensed & Insured Veteran Owned - Family Operated
Call Brad at 316-260-0136 www.BallardPHC.com
BRICK & STONE WORK OF ANY KIND Tuck-pointing, foundation & chimney repair. Insured. Free Estimates.
CALL DAN 316-516-3949
LIFT-RITE GARAGE DOORS
Scheduled maintenance, repair, sales on all garage doors. *Springs-Torsion & Extension *Garage Door Openers, Doors & More Paul Williams (316) 650-8807
"We've Been Covering The Town For 30 Years!"
316-945-9473
Jesus Landscaping Complete lawncare. Spring clean-up * Aeration * Over Seeding Gutter cleaning * Fencing * Landscape install/maintain * Shrub/tree trimming/removal Call for a free estimate! 316-737-3426 or 316-708-7236 WWW.JESUSLANDSCAPINGKS.COM
Spring Specials 10% off • Residential and Commercial • Painting for Interior and Exterior • Power Washing • Some Home Improvements
Free Estimates * Senior Citizen Discounts www.affordablepaintingwichita.com
F PERSONALSF
Mike E. 316-708-1472 MOWING BRICK, BLOCK AND STONE repair. Garage clean out, gutter cleanup, hauling, roto-tilling. APPLIANCE REMOVAL.
SWF seeking SWM to date. Write #63, c/o the active age, 125 S. West ST, Ste Art Busch 105, Wichita, KS 67213.
316.990.7039 artbuschwichita.com artbusch@plazare.com
F REAL ESTATEF
All Season Clean Up Lawn Care Quality Lawn Care • Yard Clean Up Tree Trimming • Gutter Cleaning Fall through Spring raking. Free estimates, senior discounts. 316-409-8780. Perry's Lawn Service Mowing, trimming, edging and leaf cleanup. If you need any of these services Call Perry Haggard, 316-619-6126 HAULING HANDYMAN Brush, Junk /Trash Removal MISC. ODD JOBS, NO JOB TOO SMALL Honest & Reasonable. 316-807-4989.
Senior Real Estate Specialist
Senior Real Estate Specialist
Easch office is independently Owned and Operated
Art Busch
316.990.7039 Art Busch artbuschwichita.com 316.990.7039 artbusch@plazare.com artbuschwichita.com artbusch@plazare.com Senior Real Estate Specialist
Christian Lawn Care Mowing-$20, verti-slicing, core-aerating, overseeding, new lawns, mulching flower beds, fall cleanup, leaves, shrub trimming and removal, gutter cleaning, hauling. Pampas trimming & clean-up. Senior discount. Steve 316-685-2145 Clean Cut Lawncare: Residential/Commercial Mowing, Spring/Fall Cleanup, Mulching/Rototilling, Landscaping, Scalping, Tree & shrub Trimming. Gutter Cleaning. Snow Removal. Fence building and repair. Single owner with over 9 years’ experience. 316-821-6341
Estimates
McCoy Painting 316-516-6443 Do you need any interior or exterior painting done? I’m your man. Free estimates, affordable rates. References available..
F LAWN AND GARDEN F
Free Estimates
TREE BOSS
MOWING "We've Been Covering The Town For 30 Years!"
316-807-8650
Repairs, Free estimates
Felipe Tree Service Evergreen trimming. Tree removal. Brush hauling. Splitting. Deadwooding. Free estimates. 12 years experience. 316-807-4419
Affordable Painting
Siding - Guttering - Windows
Grandpa’s Plumbing
F TREE SERVICE CONTF
Art Busch 316.990.7039 artbuschwichita.com Artbusch@plazare.com
Each office is independently Owned and Operated
F SERVICES F
U Call, I haul! 316-821-4420 or 316-650-9021 Easch officeisisindependently independently EachEstate office Senior Real Specialist Ownedand and Operated Owned
Easch office is independently Need help on your electric scooter, power Owned and Operated or lift chair, stair or platform lift or hand controls? Call Howard Distribution at 316-648-1694. Howard is a certified service center and dealer for Best Bath walk-in tubs, Bruno, EMC, Golden Tech, Pace Saver, Pride and Ricon. Working for you since 1987.
Robert Rodriguez Owner/ Operator
316-806-9592 Licensed & Insured
Alfred's Superior Tree Service 316-522-9458
www.alfredstreeservice.com pruning - tree removal - stump grinding - debris/ brush haul off - chemical sprays - emergency services - firewood - consultations - demolitions
Professional & Insured • Certified Arborist Residential & Commercial Free Estimates
TREE & STUMP TREE &REMOVAL STUMP REMOVAL
Advantage • Fast &Home Reliable Services • Free for316-518-8553 Qualified Licensed & Insured Seniors
Stan 316-518-8553 Advantage HomeF Services F WANTED Licensed & Insured
Want to Purchase mineral and other oil/gas interests. Home Improvement & Repair Send details toBathrooms, P.O Box 13557, Denver CO 80201 Kitchens, Roofing & more Donate your Durable Medical Equipment. Will pick One call does it all! 316-518-8553 up. Tax credit. Medical Loan Closet of Wichita. 316-779-8989
Check out the
NEW & IMPROVED
Active Age website.
F TREE SERVICE F Bruce’s Tree Service
Complete Tree Trimming & Removal Gutter Cleaning and Leaf Rake Trees * Shrubs* Hedgerows * Evergreens Senior Discounts. Insured. Over 30 years exp. ALL FARM & RURAL AREAS Firewood Call 316-207-8047
NOTE TO READERS
The Better Business Bureau and other organizations recommend that consumers not pay for services before they are completed to the consumers' satisfaction. For larger jobs, a signed contract is recommended. www.theactiveage.com
• Tree Removal • Trimming • Deadwood • Stump Removal • Dirt/Gravel/Rock Work • FREE ESTIMATES
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the active age
November 2021
Bigger than life
Murals have become a trend across rural Kansas. Here’s a look at some designed to inspire pride in residents, attract tourists and reap economic benefits.
Photo courtesy Clay Center Chamber Of Commerce
This Clay Center mural turns one of the town’s buildings into a bookshelf.
Photo by David Condos
This new 360-degree mural by Australian artist Guido Van Helten covers a grain elevator in Salina.
Photo by Robert Moran
Clay Center’s largest mural, “Bucolic America,” covers this 90-foottall grain elevator with a Kansas farm scene.
Photo by David Condos
Hays artist Matt Miller holds a smaller version of the artwork he created for his new mural. He’s had it taped to the wall to help him translate the painting to a larger scale.
Photo courtesy Clay Center Chamber Of Commerce
With this mural, right, and more than a dozen others, Clay Center has sparked a trend of more small towns across Kansas investing in outdoor artwork.
Kansas News Service www.theactiveage.com
November 2021
the active age
Do you have these symptoms in your legs? • Restlessness • Cramping • Fatigue
• Heaviness • Swelling • Aching
Call us today at 316-425-7980 to schedule a free screening
The Goofin’ Around Adult Keyboard Class
Page 21
LARKSFIELD PLACE HOME HEALTH & HOSPICE
is forming NOW!
Paul Cheatum, MD specializing in the treatment of varicose vein disease Offices WestWichita, Wichita, Officesin inEast East and and West DodgeCity, City,Emporia, Emporia, Dodge andWinfield, Winfield and Ponca City, OK
InnovativeVein.com mynewlegs.com
Enroll now for January classes and SAVE 25%! Offer expires Nov. 30
(316) 942-1337 4235 W. Central Wichita, KS GartensMusic.com
Now serving Sedgwick, Reno, Butler, Harvey and Sumner Counties.
CALL 316.636.1000 www.larksfield.org
• Skilled Nursing • Physical Therapy • Occupational Therapy • Speech Therapy • Medical Social Work • Home Health Aide • Wound Management • Diabetic Teaching • Medication Management • Bereavement Services • End-of-life Care
MONTESSORI METHOD MEMORY SUPPORT at Larksfield Place
We are pleased to announce that Larksfield Place has dedicated Memory Support residences within Assisted Living. We bring the same loving attention and quality of life that is a Larksfield tradition.
Our staff is the first in Kansas to be trained in the Montessori Method of Memory Support. This method reduces feelings of loneliness, boredom, and apathy by engaging residents skills in a productive way. It boosts self-esteem and reduces anxiety in every stage of dementia. Call today for a tour! 316.361.2800 www.larksfield.org www.theactiveage.com
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the active age
November 2021
SO CLOSE. SO FUN!
If you’re looking for fun, you don’t have to look far! Crosswinds Casino is just minutes north of Wichita. Get up from your sofa and on your favorite slots in no time. We even have a high limit lounge for more exciting action. Get lucky on the most popular games including some of the hottest Red Spin Bonus machines! Plus, our friendly staff is ready to serve you a specialty drink or quick snack at Bottles & Bites Bar and Café.
It’s fast, friendly, fun right in your backyard!
777 North Jackpot Way
I
Park City, Kansas 67147 www.theactiveage.com
I crosswindscasino.com
November 2021
the active age
Page 23
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Color your care continuous.
Why do they call them the “golden” years? Maybe because it’s the time of life that’s most precious, when we get to do the things we’ve always dreamed of doing. Of course, it’s also the time when we need more healthcare than ever to get the most out of those golden years. And the more care you need, the more you need it coordinated by one team of professionals. That’s why a Patient-Centered Medical Home like GraceMed makes sense. It’s a way of delivering care that puts your specific needs at the center of a comprehensive plan that includes primary medical, dental, vision and behavioral health services. We even have an in-house pharmacy. So the hand-off from one provider to the next is seamless for the best possible outcome. For some patients with chronic conditions, we even provide Point-in-Care telemedicine monitoring devices that will let us check up on your health in your home. There are 12 GraceMed locations around Wichita, so you can color us close by, too. We also have people who can coordinate referrals and access to other community services should you need them. All of which makes GraceMed the gold standard in healthcare for your golden years.
www.theactiveage.com
ALL CARRY OUT ORDERS & DINE IN CUSTOMERS
Learn more about how we care for our senior patients. Call (316) 866-2000 and ask for our Senior Services brochure.
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the active age
November 2021
Athlete puts heart into games
By Debbi Elmore Being the oldest competitor at this year’s Heartland Games didn’t faze Jerry Reiserer, who has spent a lifetime engaged in physical activity. He was a child when his father first took him along on his job of drilling wells for area farmers. “I remember my dad taking me to the fields and the guys would say, ‘Does that boy know what he’s doing?’ My dad would reply, ‘He sure does.’”
“We were different than kids today,” he added. “We always had to work. It kept us out of mischief, I guess.” Reiserer enjoyed the work enough that it became his own career for 70 years. “He drilled water wells until he was 90 years old,” his daughter, Gina Morgan, said proudly, “and still works with customers.” Reiserer was 11 when the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor, and he vividly recalls the reaction among farmers. “All the men went to war or to work in the defense plants,” he said. After the war, as economic prosperity returned to the United States, he noticed many farmers discarding old items to replace them with new. “I told them I would have my dad drill a couple more feet if they wanted to give the items to me. That’s when my collecting old things started. I just like things that someone put their heart into making.” Reiserer and his wife have three
children: Gina, Randall and Ronald. The family has now grown to include seven grandchildren. “He was a hard-working man,” Morgan said. “He didn’t take much time for hobbies, but loves golf and collecting antiques. He was a natural athlete. He never had to work out much. He kept in shape participating in sports and drilling wells. He played football in high school and college, but track and field was his love. He was on the track team while in the Marines.” “He continues to participate in masters track and field. He has boxes full of medals. He has excelled in every age group. He now finds that he is sometimes the only one in his age group so he misses the competition, but still enjoys the medals. He competes with himself to always do well.” The Heartland Games originated as a series of competitions to help support operations at the four senior centers operated by Senior Services of Wichita and to celebrate the abilities
of older adults.At this year’s games, held June 5, Reiserer competed in shot put, discus, javelin, standing long jump and 50-meter dash. At 91, he was the oldest competitor. “The Heartland Games have always been a chance to showcase that abilities are ageless,” Senior Services Director of Programs Karen Dao said. “Jerry was the perfect individual to demonstrate this.”
“Jerry is an inspiration to anyone, athletic or not, on the value of living an active and healthy life.”
— Senior Services Director of Development Chris Heiman
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November 2021
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Extra! Extra!
Twin Lakes area back in the swim
By Joe Stumpe As a shopping center, you could say Twin Lakes is older than the city of Wichita. Jesse Chisholm, the early trader for whom the Chisholm Trail is named, established a post at the present location of Twin Lakes Shopping Center in 1864, six years before Wichita was incorporated. Chisholm used the site between the Big and Little Arkansas Rivers to cater to Native Americans and the U.S. Army. When Twin Lakes Shopping Center opened nearly a century later, it was considered the city’s first suburban mall and premier shopping destination. Now, after decades of ups and downs, Twin Lakes and the adjoining area around 21st and Amidon seem to be bustling again, with an emphasis on food. Indeed, it’s the only intersection in the city with supermarkets on all four corners, in addition to numerous restaurants. “I was up there the other day, and there’s a lot going on,” said Martha Clothier, who worked in the shopping center toward the end of its heyday in the late 1970s and early 80s. The area didn’t originally feature lakes. The Twin Lakes — one on either side of Amidon — were formed by the pumping of sand from the earth to pave city streets, creating pits that filled with groundwater. Plans for Twin Lakes Shopping Center were first announced in August 1963 when Lakeview Development Co. said it would build a shopping center at the southeast corner of 21st and Amidon, along with apartments on the shore of the lake just to the south. According to an article in the Wichita Eagle, the Ritchie Brothers construction company bought the property in 1946 and started pumping sand from it, deliberately leaving land around the resulting lake that could be developed. Renters moved into the first 44 apartment units in the spring of 1965, and the shopping center opened that summer with 155,000 square feet of leasable space, enough for
A movie theatre was one attraction at Twin Lakes Shopping Center. Upper left: Rio Bravo Supermarket recently opened in the center. Upper right:Twin Lakes apartments remains a popular all-adult conclave. 30 shops. Sears and Hinkel’s were of the western Twin Lake disappeared the first tenants to open their doors, in 1972 when a New Jersey company followed by Safeway. That same announced plans for the Marina year, construction started on Twin Lakes shopping center, to be located Lakes State Bank — now Southwest at the southwest corner of 21st and National Bank — across Woodrow Amidon. According to a newspaper Street from the shopping center. article, a Texas dredging firm filled in The next year, Henry’s announced the lake with sand pumped out of the that it would build a $1 million store Arkansas River. The developer paid the at Twin Lakes. Other popular stores state two cents a ton for the sand. The in the mall included Charles Roberts, westernmost portion of the lake was Orr’s, Cricket Alley, Colonial Ice not filled in and is today bordered by Cream Parlor and Swiss Colony. A the Marina Point and Pelican Point nightclub overlooked the lake. apartments. Woolco, a discount retail In 1968, Twin Lakes Theatres I and chain, opened as the new shopping II opened showing “The Odd Couple,” center’s anchor in 1973. The center is with Kansas-born Miss America now known as New Leaf Plaza, home Debra Barnes in attendance. It was to A-OK Pawnshop, Planet Fitness the city’s first new indoor theater since and more the 1950s (and perhaps an indication Further development took place that drive-in theaters were losing on the northwest corner of 21st and popularity). Three new buildings were Amidon, where Elizabeth MacLean, added to the Twin Lakes apartment daughter of a former Wichita mayor, complex. owned the Plans to property expand that became Sears and Sweetbriar the mall’s Shopping upper Center. and lower Building levels were permits announced for were in 1970, and issued for construction it in 1966, of Twin and Mr. D’s Lakes supermarket Office opened Park to the there later south of the that year. center began The east and west Twin Lakes can been seen in The Twin this photo from the 1960s. Black and white photos two years Lakes area courtesy of Wichita-Sedgwick County Historical thrived as later. Museum. Most the city’s old www.theactiveage.com
downtown shopping district, which featured department stores such as Innes, Buck’s and Montgomery Ward, were in decline and the city’s west side was growing. “Henry’s was probably the most popular store in Wichita at that time,” Clothier remembered. But she worked at and was partial to Charles Roberts, which she called a “really progressive, cool place. They had Le Creuset and Dansk (cookware) and stuff you didn’t really see in Wichita at the time.” But the opening of Towne East Square in 1975 and Towne West Square in 1981 drew away many shoppers. Ritchie Enterprises sold its shopping center to a group of California investors in 1980, having done the same with the apartment complex the previous year. Twin Lakes Apartments, which advertises itself as “Wichita’s best kept secret,” remains a favorite with tenants who appreciate views of the lake and its Eagle’s Nest Island. Meanwhile, commercial buildings at 21st and Amidon have seen many vacancies and comings and goings by businesses (not to mention sales, foreclosures and lawsuits) since Twin Lakes Shopping Center was the city’s newest, brightest retail spot. A 2020 newspaper reported the mall was being offered for sale for $5.1 million and was 64 percent occupied. There’s been growth as well. Cooks can now choose between Dillons, Aldi, Walmart and Super Del Centro supermarkets that flank the intersection. Diners have the option of five Mexican restaurants, Chinese take-out, American homestyle and at least nine fast-food joints, while cars in line for Starbucks snake through the Twin Lakes parking lot. You can get a haircut, prescription, cell phone, oil change, thrift shop outfit, storage space, gasoline and plenty more at the intersection. However, some residents are mourning the flattening of the neighborhood dive bar, Penny’s Caravan, to make room for a car wash, clean vehicles apparently being in more demand than cheap beer.
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November 2021
New Club Parkinson’s offers help ‘at any stage’
The Active Age Marilyn Alcala suspected she suffered from Parkinson’s disease before she was formally diagnosed with it in May. That would have explained symptoms such as tremors and rigid muscles. But her physician’s confirmation still thrust her into a great unknown. As her husband, Dan Alcala, said, “We are new to Parkinson’s disease, which we knew nothing of before.” Today, the Alcalas feel more optimistic, thanks partly to a new Wichita program called Club Parkinson’s. There’s no known cure for the degenerative neurological disorder, but the program’s founders say certain activities — chiefly involving physical movement — can delay or help those affected manage its effects. Currently, members meet on Monday, Wednesday and Friday at the Heskett Center on the campus of Wichita State University. There are 30- and 60-minutes sessions in Nordic walking, Tai chi, aquatics, motion, strength, agility and fall prevention, plus an “empowerment group” session
departments with applied learning opportunities in majors ranging from exercise science and counseling to public health and engineering. A membership costs $149 per month, plus $50 if a caregiver wants to join. That includes unlimited fitness classes, a monthly educational series, full access to the Heskett Center and a parking pass. A 50-percent discount is being offered through the end of the year. The organization also offers two Club Parkinson's members excerise in the Heskett center at Wichita free classes called WellRep InMotion State University. Above left: Marilyn Alcala, who says her symptoms have which are held from 1-2 p.m. on improved, greets a student assistant. Above right: The club was started by Monday and Wednesday. Shana Gatschet and Connie Urbanek. “We can help anybody at any in which members and their caregivers medication but no other advice on how stage,” Gatschet said. “If people are given the opportunity and education share experiences. to manage it. “It was devastating,” she and tools, they will see progress. They Organized as a nonprofit, Club said. will see benefits.” Parkinson’s was started by Shana The idea behind group sessions, Dan Alcala said the sessions Gatschet and Connie Urbanek, who she said, is that “when you have a helped his wife, a church music own a mobile therapy clinic called community or group together, they director, stop using a wheelchair and Parkinson’s Connect. Urbanek is work harder together, they motivate walker. a physical therapist assistant and each other. You get more success in a “She’s now walking alone without Gatschet is an occupational therapist. group setting.” any help at all,” he said. “It’s really The pair started putting together Urbanek said they approached helped us look forward to enjoying our Club Parkinson’s about a year ago, WSU about collaborating because as retirement.” although Gatschet said they’ve been a new nonprofit, “There was no way For more information about Club aware of a lack of help for Parkinson’s we could have started with brick and Parkinson’s, call 252-1877 or visit patients for years. She recalled in mortar” otherwise. clubparkinsons.org. particular one man who’d been Club Parkinson’s also provides diagnosed with the disease and given WSU students from several
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November 2021
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Ham it up for the holidays
Page 3
Recipe for You or Two: Raisin Nut Bread Pudding
Family Features Few things bring family and friends together quite like the holidays, and serving up an elegant, seasonal meal centered around a mouthwatering main dish is a recipe for creating lasting memories with the ones you love. This recipe comes from Davie Rose, executive chef with Omaha Steaks.
Rum and Cola Holiday Ham
Ham: 1 spiral-sliced ham, about 8 pounds Glaze: 1 cup cherry fruit spread 3/4 cup dark spiced rum 3/4 cup cola 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt Directions: To make ham: Thaw ham, if frozen, in refrigerator 24-48 hours. Remove from refrigerator and let ham come to room temperature, about 3045 minutes. Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Remove ham from foil and film. Return ham to foil wrapping and place in oven-safe roasting pan. Roll foil down leaving 2 inches of foil around bottom of ham. Place roasting pan with ham in oven on lower rack and heat uncovered 6075 minutes, until ham starts to brown. While ham cooks, make glaze. To make glaze: In medium saucepot, whisk fruit spread, rum, cola, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard and salt until well incorporated. Bring to boil then reduce heat to medium. Simmer over medium heat 10 minutes then remove from heat. Cool to room temperature. During last 15 minutes of cooking, glaze ham every 5 minutes.
Floyd Price of Newton is the winner of a $25 gift certificate donated by The Spice Merchant for this month’s Recipe for You or Two: Raisin Nut Bread Pudding. Price said he experimented with the recipe until it tasted like one his mother and grandmother made. Plus it cuts down on ingredients since the bread includes raisins and nuts. Price, a former Kansas State University faculty member, admits he was spoiled by their cooking Floyd Price growing up on a farm where butter, cream and eggs were plentiful. Today, he does the cooking for his wife, Phyllis, and himself. “There comes a time in life when you get tired of eating out in restaurants out of self-defense,” he said. He’s known to bring cookies to coffee klatches at the Kansas Christian Home as well. “I can always find someone to eat my cooking.”
Raisin Nut Bread Pudding
6 slices raisin nut bread, such as Braum’s 4 eggs, slightly beaten ½ cup sugar ¼ teaspoon cinnamon 1 cup half-and-half or cream Directions: Tear bread into pieces and place in a mixing bowl. Add eggs, sugar, cinnamon and half-and-half or cream; mix well. Grease a small pan such as an 8 x 5½-inch Pyrex pan. Bake in a 350-degree oven for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown. Serve with caramel sauce or other topping, if desired.
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Jazz band spreads the love
November 2021
November Theatre By Diana Morton Forum Theatre at the Wilke Center, 1st United Methodist Church, 330 N. Broadway. Cool Yule: A Swingin’ Christmas. Santa Claus and his supporting cast reimagine Christmas favorites old and new. 8 pm Thu-Sat, 2 pm Sun, Nov 26-Dec 19. Tickets $23$25. 316-618-0444
The Active Age When the Heartland Jazz Band played back-to-back shows in Wichita last month, one member flew in from Florida and another did the same from Texas to take part. Considering that members don’t get paid, that’s a pretty good indication of how much they love the music. “This group likes to play fun music,” said Dennis Schmidt, the band’s tuba player. “We like to share it with folks, bring some joy into their lives.” Heartland specializes in Dixieland or traditional jazz such as “When The Saints Go Marching In” and
“Alexander’s Ragtime Band.” Schmidt put the group together about a year ago but like most members, he’s been playing music nearly all his life. Members range in age from 92 (banjo) to 61 (drums). Band members are hoping to play more shows this fall and winter, adding Christmas songs to their set list as the holidays approach. Groups who are interested in scheduling them should contact Schmidt at (316) 263-5555. “We don’t want money,” Schmidt said. “We did get a nice donation from Wesley Friends which we donated to a charity. We just want to spread fun for people.”
Guild Hall Players, St. James Episcopal Church, 3750 E. Douglas. The Father: A Tragic Farce by Florian Zeller, translated by Christopher Hampton. An independent elderly gentleman struggles to understand the challenges of aging and identity. 8 pm Thu–Sat, 7 pm Sun. Nov 4-7. Tickets $12, students $10. 316-683-5686 Kechi Playhouse, 100 E. Kechi Road, Tuna Christmas by Storme Maynard. 8 pm Fri–Sat, 2:30 pm Sun, Oct 1-24. Tickets $13-$15. 316-744-2152 Mosley Street Melodrama, 234 N. Mosley, The Hallmork Channel Christmas Melodrama, a new melodrama written by Molly Tully and Ryan Schafer that lovingly parodies holiday television movies. Following
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intermission, enjoy a musical revue featuring some favorite holiday tunes and characters. Dinner 6:15 pm, show begins 7:50 pm. Tickets $24-$34; Show only, $24. Nov 13-Dec 23. 316263-0222 Music Theatre Wichita, Century II, PAC, Convention Hall, 225 W. Douglas, Twelfth Night. A lively romantic comedy about mistaken identify and self-discovery, featuring a jazz-funk score, fast-moving plot, youth choir and 90 minutes of comic complications.7:30 pm Wed-Sat, 8 pm, matinee show Sat, 2 pm. Nov 10-13. Tickets starting at $28. 316-265-3107 Roxy’s Downtown, 412 E. Douglas, cabaret-style theatre. Away in a Basement! A Church Basement Ladies Musical. This musical comedy from the Church Basement Ladies franchise chronicles Christmas-time with the ladies who work in the church basement of the Lutheran Church. Take a sweetly nostalgic look at holiday traditions and life in rural America. 8 pm Th-Sat, 6:00 pm Sun, Nov 18-Dec 19. Tickets $20-$30. 316-265-4400
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November 2021
the active age
Quick shot artist
Dave Quick exhibit marks 65 plus years behind camera Dave Quick was 10 years old and in for a shock when he developed a photograph he’d shot of a taxi whizzing through Riverside Park. “There’s an Dave Quick older woman in the back looking straight ahead and the cabbie is giving me the finger!” Quick recalled, with characteristic enthusiasm. “That’s when I learned photography is full of surprises.” Quick, who has been looking for those surprises ever since, will exhibit about 50 photographs in a show at the Riney Fine Arts Gallery at Friends University Nov. 5-27. He is scheduled to discuss the show in a talk at the gallery at 6 p.m. on Nov. 17. Quick spent about 25 years on the east coast making art and working in various art-related jobs before returning to Wichita 31 years ago. Since then, he’s taken thousands of photographs of the city and its people, always looking for the unexpected. “If any art form relies on serendipity,” he said, “it’s photography.”
Dave Quick photographed the family at right near the Keeper of the Plains, which appears frequently in his work. Far right, a young girl rides outside Bicycle Express. Below, a rider races in Yoder's Heritage Days. Below right is writer William Burroughs, who Quick photographed in Lawrence in the early 1990s. The flutist represents Pan.`
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November 2021
Seeking a simple, inexpensive final farewell? Dear Savvy Senior, My husband and I are looking for the simplest and least-expensive way to dispose of our bodies when we die. We hate the idea of wasting a lot of money on high-priced funerals and would like some advice on some simple and cheap send-offs. Simple Seniors Dear Simple, With the average cost of a fullservice funeral running around $11,000 today, many people are seeking simple ways to make their final farewell more affordable. Depending on how you want to go, here are several low-cost options to consider. Direct Cremation If you and your husband are interested in cremation, a direct cremation is the simplest and leastexpensive way to go. It includes picking up the body, completing and filing the necessary paperwork, the cremation itself and returning the cremated remains to the family. There’s no embalming, formal viewing or casket. A simple cardboard box called an “alternative container” is used to hold the body. Depending on where you live and the funeral home you choose, the average cost for a direct cremation runs between $1,000 and $3,000. If you want additional services beyond what a direct cremation offers, ask the funeral
home for an itemized price list that covers what the other services cost, so you know exactly what you’re getting. All providers are required by law to provide this. To locate nearby funeral homes, look in your local yellow pages, or Google “cremation” or “funeral” followed by your city and state. You can also get good information online at Parting.com, which lets you compare prices from funeral providers in your area based on what you want. Immediate or Direct Burial If you’re interested in being buried, an immediate/direct burial is the most basic and low-cost option. With an immediate burial, your body would be buried in a simple container shortly after death, skipping the embalming, viewing and use of the funeral facilities. If your family wants a memorial service, they can have it at the graveside at your place of worship or at home without the body. These services usually cost between $1,800 and $3,500, not counting cemetery charges, which can run you an additional $1,000 to $3,000. All
donating your bodies to science. This option won’t cost you a cent, however, some programs may charge a small fee to transport your body to their facility. After using your body for medical research projects, anatomy lessons and surgical practice, your remains will be cremated and your ashes will be buried or scattered in a local cemetery or returned to your family, usually within a year. To locate accredited university medical school body donation programs in your state, see the University of Florida’s U.S. program directory at Anatbd.acb.med.ufl.edu/ usprograms, or call the whole-body donation referral service during business hours at 800-727-0700. Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.
funeral homes offer direct burial. Green Burial An eco-friendly green burial is another affordable way to go that costs anywhere from $1,000 to $4,000 depending on the provider. With a green cemetery burial, the body is buried in a biodegradable coffin or just wrapped in a shroud, without embalming chemicals or a burial vault. The Green Burial Council (GreenBurialCouncil.org, 888-9663330) has a state listing of cemetery operators who accommodate green burials, as well as funeral professionals who provide the services. Anatomical Donation If you’d like to eliminate your cremation/burial costs all together, as well as help advance medical research, you and your husband should consider
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November 2021
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Page 7
Caregivers benefit from care, too
By Monica Cissell Today more than 65 million people, or nearly 30 percent of the U.S. population, provide care for a chronically ill, disabled or older family member or friend. Locally, caregivers can get help from Central Plains Area Agency on Aging (CPAAA), which serves Butler, Harvey and Sedgwick counties. They are welcome to call 855-200-2372 to visit with a CPAAA Resource Specialist or the Caregiver Coordinator to find out what community services may be right for them. Below are caregiver programs that are available: • Caregiver Coordinator: Offers counseling or consultation to help caregivers/families determine what type of support they need. • In-home services: Limited inhome support with housekeeping and hands-on care such as bathin and dressing. • Caregiver counseling: Offered to the caregiver alone or with others (such as siblings, spouse or care recipient) to assist with challenging situations.
• Caregiver support group: Offered at two locations through Prairie View. • Transportation: Available to help care recipients. • Education: Training is available through Trualta, an online educational platform. Includes practical skill, information on dementia and more. • Respite: In-home assistance to relieve the caregiver for a short period of time. There is no set fee for these services, although donations help expand the reach of the programs. In addition, the Caregiver Coordinator may connect caregivers with other available services such as homedelivered meals and legal services. Here are some activities taking place during November, which is National Family Caregiver month: Nov. 3 Aging is Living Podcast – “Celebrating Caregivers with National Caregiver Month.” Find us on Central Plains Area Agency on Aging Facebook page at Facebook.com/ centralplainsareaagencyonaging. For more information, visit www. cpaaa.org. Monica Cissell is director of information and community services for CPAAA.
Kansas honors vets with flights again Jim Cotter is surrounded by friends and family after returning from a Kansas Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. The flights have resumed after a one-year suspension due to the pandemic. Ten flights were scheduled to take place between August and early November, transporting World War II, Korean War and Vietnam War veterans to memorials and historic sites in the nation’s capital. Cotter was an 18-year-old farm boy when drafted into the Navy during World War II. About 6 a.m. on Easter Sunday, 1945, he was with the first wave ashore in Okinawa. He was also offshore earlier at Iwo Jima, and was called back to serve during the Korea War. The last welcome home ceremony of the year for Honor Flight participants will be held a 1:25 p.m. Friday, Nov. 5 in the baggage claims area of Eisenhower Airport. Mask are required.
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