September 2023

Hoarding a ‘generational’ issue for some

By Rose Conlon KMUW

Before Beck Bright-Samarzia gets down to work, she suits up: back brace, gloves, N-95 mask.

Inching through one of her clients’ living rooms, between stacks of boxes and bins, she explains she used to wear an industrial-grade mask here — before they got the dust under control.

“It might look like not a lot has happened,” she said, “but so much has happened.”

Through her Wichita business, Paper Shift ICT, Bright-Samarzia helps people deal with their stuff — mostly when there’s way too much of it.

People call her after a loved one dies and it’s too overwhelming to sort through their belongings alone.

See Hoarding, page 7

Dancers don't want music to stop

By Joe Stumpe

“Take the ribbon from your hair.”

As the Reno County country band eases into “Help Me Make It Through the Night,” Betty and Jack Sawyer rise and take their position at one end of the basketball court in the Orchard Park Recreation Center, slowly swaying to the music. At 94, Jack can’t hear or see as well as he used

to, but that doesn’t stop the Sawyers from attending one, two or even three Golden Age dances a week.

“It’s just good to get out of the house,” Jack said. "You get stale."

Added Betty: “You get to dance to different bands, and you meet such nice people.”

The Sawyers are part of a group of regulars at senior dances that have

been put on at three locations in Wichita for decades. Ranging in age from their late 50s and up, the dancers are a diverse lot: Depending on the music, you might find them twisting, twirling, waltzing, polkaing, chachaing or lining up for a line dance. Singles and couples are both welcome,

See Dances, page 25

Senior Expo returns this month

PBS Kansas chief welcomes event as part of station makeover

By Joe Stumpe

PBS Kansas chief Victor Hogstrom says there’s a simple reason why the public television station is bringing back the Senior Expo this month.

“We knew it was a very popular event,” Hogstrom said. “Our audience is also that audience.”

Hogstrom is all about audience engagement, and resurrecting the Expo is just one of many moves he’s made since arriving in Wichita in 2016. He said the Central Plains Area Agency on Aging, which discontinued the event in 2020 after a 33-year run, was supportive of its return.

One of Hogstrom’s biggest moves was finding the station a new home in the former Meritrust Credit Union

headquarters at 8710 E. 32nd St., which is where the Expo will be held on Thursday, Sept. 28.

He remembers walking into the old headquarters on West 21st Street for the first time. “Honestly, I looked around, and I came so close to saying, ‘No, I’m not going to do this,’” he said.

The well-traveled Hogstrom said the station had made several overtures to him prior to his hiring.

Eventually, he said, “I came because I saw a lot of challenges.”

Hogstrom grew up in New Jersey and Liberia, where his father, a mechanical engineer, worked for a mining company. After graduating valedictorian of his high school

See Expo, page 6

Photos by Fernando Salazar

At left, Rick Vesterse spins Sondra Frank at Orchard Park Recreation Center. Above, Casey and Larry Furnish coordinate the Orchard Park dance.

Victor Hogstrom has led PBS Kansas since 2016.

Langel family gift benefits McCormick School Museum

The McCormick School Museum has received a donation that will allow it to move forward on several key projects, including a security system, masonry repair, accessibility, an audiovisual system and a sign to advertise the museum.

In a news release, the museum said it had received “a generous donation from the Langel family, who became interested in our community effort

to restore this wonderful, historic building.”

“We are thrilled at the prospect of having a state-of-the-art security system of cameras and lighting to protect the facility. Unfortunately, the facility has been vandalized several times suffering substantial damage. We trust that the cameras and lighting will be a deterrent and provide muchneeded protection for the museum and

its historic contents.”

The AV system will be installed in the auditorium and a platform lift will provide wheelchair access to all three floors. “Our goal is to become another uniquely historic venue for community events,” the news release stated.

The museum expects to begin replacing and repairing limestone masonry and deteriorated mortar this fall, and the building will also be

cleaned to remove mold staining its exterior.

The museum, located in the former McCormick School at 855 S. Martinson, contains an 1890s era classroom, a replica of East High’s 1923 science laboratory, historic photographs and archives of USD 259. For more information, contact Cynthia Davie at (316) 708-0676.

Melon man makes many mouths happy

By Joe Stumpe

When Kenneth Simons says he’s been raising watermelons all his life, he’s only exaggerating slightly.

He started helping his dad raise them when he was 5 years old, or 85 years ago.

“All I could do was walk around and be under his feet,” Simons, of Haysville, recalled. Within a few years, he was driving a tractor and horsedrawn wagon on his father’s 100 acres in Oklahoma.

Simons kept up the family business as a summer sideline after moving to Kansas. During the hottest days of August, he was out selling watermelons in his usual spot on South Broadway just north of Colonial Heights Church. Motorists might have missed a small hand-lettered sign pointing the way,

but longtime customers knew where to look for the short, wiry, overallclad Simons and his yellow 1954 Ford pickup with its bed piled high with melons.

“I’ve been coming for years,” one woman said before leaving with a medium-size melon, which Simons was selling for $12.

When a young first-time buyer told Simons he hadn’t brought enough money, Simons told him to take the melon anyway. The teen carried the melon to his truck, found two dollars in quarters and brought it back to Simons.

Working in the season’s hottest, driest weather was no coincidence. Simons said the vines on his melons were shriveling up, so it was time to get picking. “After you’ve raised these

things, you better get out here and get something for them.”

That, he concedes, is not as easy as it used to be, which is why he has a helper. He can still pick a 25- or 30-pound watermelon, but he can’t pick all of them.

In recent years, Simons has raised two varieties — the round Sweet Crimson and oblong Legacy. Both are noted for their firm, sweet flesh. Both take about 85 days to grow — with lots of hoeing of weeds required — and average about 25 pounds, although they can get bigger. And both have seeds, the only kind he grows.

Of seedlesss varieies, he said, “They’re good if you don’t know what you’re doing,” he said.

His customers seem to agree. “Best watermelon I ever had,” one customer

said.

“If it’s not, come on back,” Simons replied.

It’s possible that this will be Simon’s last year to raise melons. But don’t think for a second that he’s tired of them.

“I eat one about every day.”

Kenneth Simons

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Expo

From Page 1

class, he enrolled in Brigham Young University because it was relatively cheap and then stacked enough courses to graduate with multiple degrees in three years.

Hogstrom worked as a producer and host for a public television station while still in college. When KSL, a powerful commercial station in Salt Lake City, offered him a job, he jumped at it. But he was ready to return to public TV when a PBS station in Pensacola, Fla., offered to make him director of news and public affairs.

“I had been in both worlds, and I wanted to provide a service. It was about service for me. Now it takes money, of course, but it was all about the service.”

Hogstrom’s next goal was to lead a public TV station. He got the chance in Redding, Calif., where he found the station housed in a 2,000-square-foot former meat locker that still had the freezer door hanging in it. Hogstrom led the effort to buy and renovate a much larger building.

Then it was on to Chattanooga, where the station was $1 million in debt and in need of a new facility. He erased the debt and spearheaded a new 31,000-square-foot facility before leaving for the Kansas City PBS

station. There, he reduced the station’s debt from $7 million to $600,000. He returned to Utah for a job in public TV for two years before accepting the job here, where the station had been in a kind of holding pattern for several years.

At 31,000 square feet, the station’s current home is nearly four times larger than its predecessor. The old building had one studio, which meant sets had to be switched out between every program. The new building has one mid-size studio and another big enough to hold a live audience, plus LED lighting and room for more equipment such as a large green screen “that can do just about anything” in Hogstrom’s words.

There’s also space for the Cochener-Garvey Children’s Education & Discovery Center, which Hogstrom called the first of its kind in the nation for a TV station, as well as more space that can be rented.

Hogstrom also recognized room for improvement in the station’s programming, fundraising, viewership and image in the community. He has added several locally produced shows that appear on a regular basis, including “Positively Kansas,” “Hatteberg’s People,” “Empowering Seniors,” “Inside the Cover” and “One on One with Victor Hogstrom,” plus documentaries such as “Kansas Ghost Towns,” “Kansas From Above,” “Kansas Pie Style” and “Wichita the

Life Enrichment series set at Bethel

NORTH NEWTON — Bethel College has set the line-up for its fall Life Enrichment series.

Sessions are held in Krehbiel Auditorium. The cost is $30 per semester or $3 per week, with firsttime attendees admitted free.

Highlights include:

Sept. 6, 9:30 a.m., “Are You from Here? People, Place, and the Future of the Rural Church,” Brad Roth, Hesston pastor and author; 10:50 a.m., “My time at Channel 12,” Rob Schunn.

Sept. 13, 9:30 a.m., “Nursing Shortage, Why? How can that be

Air Capital.”

“Our documentaries, during pledge time, bring in more pledges than the national (PBS) programs,” Hogstrom said. “People love them.”

Speaking of pledge drives, Hogstrom made them more effective by getting well-known local figures to appear on air asking viewers for pledges. Last year, the station ended a pledge drive early when it exceeded the goal with a couple weeks to go.

The station has added staff, tripled membership and added events such as the BritClub High Tea at Botanica for fans of its British programming. The station raised the $4.5 million needed for its new building in about a year, Hogstrom said, in part by finding sponsors for the studios, discovery center and other spaces.

Hogstrom changed the station’s name from KPTS to PBS Kansas because “we are serving more people than any other station in the state,” he said. Thanks to the internet, he said, the station has viewers and members in just about every county in the state.

Currently, a website that covers public media nationwide, recently profiled Hogstrom as a “Turnaround CEO” in an article titled, “How PBS Kansas regained its footing in Wichita.”

Hogstrom has achieved all this while a part-time resident of Wichita. He spends many long weekends in Chattanooga, where his wife, twin

changed?” Val Gleason, President and CEO, NMC Health, Newton; 10:50 a.m., “The Remarkable Life and Writings of Mennonite Activist J.G. Ewert,” Christopher Dick, Tabor College professor of English; Sept. 20, 9:30 a.m., “Glimpses of Prairie View’s Beginnings,” George Dyck, MD, North Newton and Justina D. Neufeld, RN, North Newton; 10:35 a.m., “What Seniors Need to Know

2023 Senior Expo

When: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 28

Where: PBS Kansas headquarters, 8710 E. 32nd St. N., Wichita

What: Health-related presentations, fashion show, live music, food trucks, vendors

For more information, visit kpts. org and click “events”

28-year-old sons and 16-year-old daughter live. He is proud of having raised his sons himself after an earlier marriage ended in divorce. Jeremy and Jermaine Hogstrom are both physicians in Chattanooga with, their dad notes proudly, several million TikTok followers as the “Twin Doctors.” When not on a plane, in the office or out in the community promoting PBS Kansas, Hogstrom enjoys cooking, reading and watching PBS Kansas. “Like I tell the staff, I watch it like a hawk.”

He isn’t done. He wants PBS Kansas to have a mobile unit for broadcasting live from events such as Riverfest, the Kansas State Fair and sporting events. “Just imagine us broadcasting live the high school game of the week,” he said.

He has big plans for the Senior Expo as well.

“Our goal is to make it an annual affair, spread it out in the parking lot and grounds. Just make it huge.”

and How to Speak Up When Needed,” Donna M. Lehane, Silver Hair Legislature Chair, and “How the Silver Haired Legislature Advocates to the Kansas Legislature,” Chuck Schmidt, former state representative and former SHL Speaker of the House, Wichita; 11:30 a.m., “Hesston College Bel Canto Singers,”  Dr. Russell Adrian, conductor; Ken Rogers, piano.

Hoarding

From Page 1

Others need help gaining control of their own possessions, often due to mental illness or physical limitations.

Jamie Park hired Bright-Samarzia to help clear out decades of clutter from her family's home. The house, just south of downtown Wichita, has been in her family for generations — and for generations, she said, her family has struggled with hoarding.

“It’s kind of crazy growing up in this environment,” she said. “I couldn’t see the floor growing up.”

Park and her family are among thousands of Kansans who deal with hoarding. It’s a problem that’s frequently depicted in the media, but mental health experts say it’s often misunderstood. And they worry hoarding is on the rise in Kansas due to the state’s demographic makeup and a scarcity of support for those who struggle with it.

A generational problem

Park, now in her 20s and a caregiver for her aging parents, is trying to break her family’s history of hoarding. Bright-Samarzia recently helped her clear out the laundry room so she could reach the washing machine. Park, who deals with chronic pain, had been going to laundromats for years.

“Oftentimes, hoarding is generational,” said Bright-Samarzia, a former therapist. “People pass it down to their kids and their kids and their kids. But somewhere down the line, someone says, ‘Enough.’”

Down in the basement — where Park will soon move with her kids — the duo start sifting through a half century’s worth of memories, relics and junk: Old pay stubs. Abandoned baby toys. Tangles of unidentified wires.

Park steers clear of the more sentimental stuff.

“People think, ‘I have a lot of photos; I’m going to start with that,’” Bright-Samarzia said. “But you’re going to get stuck on memory lane. The feelings are going to come up regardless, but go through photo albums and mementos last.”

A budding business

More than a decade ago, BrightSamarzia got a call from a man who would become her first client. He asked whether she could help him sort through about 20 banker’s boxes full of unopened mail. It had been building up for years.

After six months of chipping away after work and on weekends, they got it under control.

“Then I put him on quarterly maintenance,” she said.

Earlier this year, Bright-Samarzia decided to quit her job at a mental health professional education company to focus on her decluttering business full time.

The work can be intense, both physically and emotionally. She said a lot of people are reluctant to ask for help because they’re in denial about how bad the situation has become — or ashamed they can’t handle it on their own.

Even if they acknowledge they need to pare down their belongings, the process can stir up complicated feelings.

“For some people, getting rid of things is like throwing away a part of themselves,” she said. “It’s the support of the emotional side that is an enormous component to this.”

What is hoarding?

At its core, hoarding is a difficulty

parting with things. It often also involves compulsive collecting.

It’s not always extreme, but it can be. When it begins to significantly interfere with people's ability to live their life or use their home, mental health professionals might diagnose them with a hoarding disorder.

People of all ages and backgrounds struggle with hoarding, but Wichita therapist Nancy Trout said issues with clutter often begin to appear in childhood and worsen with age as mobility issues make it harder for people to do the physical work of clearing it out. Grief and trauma can trigger or exacerbate the issue.

“The stuff becomes kind of a protective nest,” said Trout, who runs a monthly support group for people who struggle with hoarding.

She said hoarding often exists alongside other mental health conditions like depression and anxiety, and the issues can feed on themselves.

“Anxiety and depression may have been part of why the problem started,” she said, “but the fact that the hoard is still there makes people more anxious and depressed.”

She thinks most portrayals of hoarding in popular media — including the reality TV show "Hoarders," where teams go in and gut the homes of people with extreme hoarding problems — don’t focus enough on the complex mental health issues at work. The hoarding often returns, she said, if those aren’t addressed.

“If someone is still acquiring, it doesn’t matter how much stuff they get rid of,” she said. “They will refill the

Aging population, lacking support

But it can be hard for hoarders to get the mental health support they need — especially in Kansas, which ranks among the worst states in the country on access to mental health care.

Experts worry the lack of access, coupled with a fast-aging population, could fuel a rise in hoarding in the coming decades.

Most estimates peg the prevalence of hoarding at around 2.5% of the general population, says Randy Frost, a professor emeritus of psychology at Smith College and longtime expert on the disorder. But among older adults, the prevalence is likely much higher.

“The behavior itself appears to start early in life,” Frost said. “But, most of the time, when we see someone with a clinically significant hoarding problem, they tend to be older.”

Research has also identified a link between hoarding and loneliness — which experts say can exacerbate older adults’ already elevated rates of social isolation. Frost says the disorder can drive a wedge between a hoarder and his or her family.

“As the person with hoarding gets older, their adult children have a great deal of difficulty trying to convince them to improve the state of their home,” he said.

At some point, family members might get so frustrated that they refuse to visit the hoarder’s home — or arguments might get so bitter that the hoarder stops allowing them to visit.

“Once that happens, the clutter tends to get worse,” Frost said.

Out-of-control clutter makes it difficult — and dangerous — for first responders to reach people in distress. It can also create fire hazards.

“It’s the really severe hoarding situations that cause the most health and safety problems,” said Trout, the Wichita therapist. “They can also cause problems for the neighbors.”

She and other experts want to see Kansas invest more in addressing the unique problems older adults face in managing their homes, whether or not they have a clinically diagnosable disorder. And, they say, officials need to do more to ensure people of all ages can access mental health care to help treat problems before they become serious.

Digital Active Age offered

The Active Age is now available in a digital edition that allows you to flip through pages and increase the size of the print. It is emailed to subscribers on or before the first of each month. To sign up for it, contact joe@theactiveage.com.

Rose Conlon reports on health for KMUW and the Kansas News Service.

Photo by Rose Conlon/KMUW Beck Bright-Samarzia, left, is helping Jamie Park declutter her family's home south of downtown Wichita.

This rider lacked much horse sense

By Ted Blankenship

For the most part, I believe horses are noble animals, and I’m sure they had a lot to do with making this country what it is today. Yet, my experience riding them has not always been satisfactory.

My first attempt came when I was about eight years old. A neighbor had a sorrel saddle horse that was too lazy to be dangerous, so he let the neighborhood kids ride him.

I avoided it as long as I could, but one day he talked me into mounting the horse with his daughter. He hadn’t bothered to saddle the animal, so we were to ride bareback. I was in front and was told that all I had to do to make the horse go was to gently tap him in the ribs with my feet. It turned out that the horse’s back was wider

than my legs were long and I couldn’t reach any ribs. I gently tapped his back and he just stood there, occasionally dipping his head to eat grass.

Thirty-five years or so later, neighbors in Wichita who owned a ranch near Cripple Creek, Colo., invited Dorothy and me to spend a few days there with them. Part of the entertainment was to help move a herd of cattle to better grass about five miles from the pasture they were in.

It hadn’t occurred to me that we would be doing this from the backs of horses. The ranch foreman found horses for everyone, including me. Unfortunately, my legs were about

September quiz: Colorful songs

By Nancy Wheeler

Here’s one for music lovers. Name the song titles or colors associated with famous songs using these clues. The answers appear on page 14.

1. Wizard of Oz fans should be familiar with the name of the seventh studio album by English singer and composer Elton John, first released in October 1973?

2. What slow dance and skating

September Theatre

By Diana Morton

Crown Uptown Theatre, 3207

E Douglas Ave. Dreamgirls. Inspired by Motown and R&B legends of the 1960s-70s, Dreamgirls follows the rising stardom of the Dreamettes, an all-girl singing trio from Chicago. 8 pm Fri, Sat; 2 pm Sun, Aug 25-Sept 10. Tickets $30-$50. 316-612-7696

Kechi Playhouse, 100 E. Kechi Road, Slow Night. Set in the lobby of Hole-in-the-Wall Motel during third shift, this comedy is the debut play of local performer Dawn DeProspo. 8 pm Fri–Sat, 2:30 pm Sun, Sept 1-24. Tickets $15-16. 316-744-2152

Mosley Street Melodrama, 234

N. Mosley. Fresh Prince of Bel Plaine by Carol Hughes. Billy has been hired by his Uncle Carl to find out why all

rink favorite was a top 20 hit for Tony Bennett in 1951 but reached No. 1 on the charts with a 1963 version by Bobby Vinton?

3. “Well, it’s one for the money, two for the show, three to get ready now go, cat, go” begins what song first recorded by Carl Perkins, then performed by Elvis Presley?

4. What was the color of the underwater craft made famous by Paul

the money from his business has been vanishing. Family and friends are the chief suspects. A new musical comedy revue follows. Dinner 6:15 pm, show begins 7:50 pm. Now-Sept 2. Tickets, dinner & show $26-$30; Show only $20. 316-263-0222

Nightmare on Mosley Street by Kyle Vespestad & Monte Wheeler. New musical revue follows. Dinner 6:15 pm, show begins 7:50 pm. Sept 15-Oct

28. Tickets, dinner & show $26-$30; Show only $20. 316-263-0222

Music Theatre Wichita, Century

II Concert Hall, Cats. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s megahit Cats won seven Tony Awards including Best Musical. Sept 6-10. Tickets, call 316-265-3107

Roxy’s Downtown, 412 E. Douglas, cabaret-style theatre, The Last Five Years. A powerful musical about two New Yorkers in their twenties who fall in and out of love over the course of

six inches too short to reach the stirrups, meaning I couldn’t stand up or otherwise control my position relative to the horse.

My horse was trained to immediately chase any cows or calves that strayed from the herd and bring them back with authority. If the wrangler on his back could not get his butt off the hard leather saddle, that was his problem.

She took me under hanging limbs, through prickly cactus, down steep hills, all at top speed, with me bouncing up and down all the way. When we got back to the house, I could barely walk and could not sit down for sure.

A few years later, we were traveling in Mexico with Dorothy’s brother and sister-in-law and their and our kids.

McCartney in his 1966 song recorded by the Beatles?

5. What color was the sports coat with the pink carnation in the Marty Robbins song released in March 1957?

6. What color were the eyes of the girl highlighted in a song by Northern Irish singer and songwriter Van Morrison in 1967?

7. According to the Guinness World Records, what Irving Berlin 1942 yuletide song, performed by Bing Crosby, is the best-selling single

five years. 8pm Fri-Sat, Now-Sept 2. Tickets $20-$30. 316-265-4400

The Golden Girls, a Parody. Wichita theatre favs Tom Frye, Scott Noah, Kyle Vespestad, Monte Wheeler and Christine Tasheff star in this send-up of the TV show. 8pm Fri-Sat, Sept 1511/4. Tickets $20-$30. 316-265-4400

Wichita Community Theatre, 258 N. Fountain. The Wild Women of Winedale. Comedy focused on three wom-

We came upon a tourist attraction aptly named Horse Tail Falls. There was a restaurant near a steep hill that featured a bosa nova band and a bunch of horses and donkeys. For a price, you could walk up the hill and ride back down on a horse or donkey. I chose a horse that raced down the hill. The quicker he got down the quicker he could eat some hay and go to sleep.

Loooking back, I would have enjoyed the bossa nova more than the dash down the hill.

Contact Ted at tblankenship218@ gmail.com.

worldwide?

8. What color ribbon was tied “Round the Old Oak Tree” in the song originally recorded by Tony Orlando and Dawn?

9. What song made popular by both Porter Wagoner and Tom Jones records a longing for the verdant lawn of his boyhood?

10. What 1977 song by Crystal Gayle mentions two different colors in its title?

en at crossroads in their lives—sisters Fanny and Willa and their frustratingly quirky sister-in-law Johnnie Faye. Performances are at 8 pm Thursday through Saturday with a Sunday matinee on Sept. 17 and Sept. 24 starting at 2 pm. Tickets are $18 for adults, $16 for military/seniors/students. There is a special ticket price of $14 for everyone on Sept. 14 and 21. 316-686-1282

A purist on passion and purple jelly

By Niki Lewis Shepherd

During the last week in August, I begin to look for them. Reason tells me I am foolish — it’s the hottest time of the year — and so much effort for ten small jars. Economically unsound. Yet, each year I pick wild grapes for jellymaking.

After a week of watching the clusters swell through their powder bloom, I squeeze one and taste it. It is mostly seed, but the sweet-tart flavor stirs a remembrance and I make a mental listing of my equipment. Where is my jelly pan? Do I have paraffin left from last season?

I choose early morning to pick, while the dew is still clinging. A tall

Guest Column

ladder boosts me high into the bosom of the tree. When I begin to pick, a Cardinal peeks from a nearby twig and gently scolds as I steal his treasure. The juice turns my fingers purple as I pick my basket full.

In the kitchen, I fill the sink and float the grapes, picking them free of stems. They glisten like violet peas and I plop them in my black graniteware jelly kettle. With a potato masher, I crush their skins, releasing the juice to be heated over a stove burner.

When they are soft, I strain them through a clean tea towel scarred with

holes from use. I knot the towel and hook it to the door of my kitchen cabinet, leaving the mash to slowly drip into the pan.

To the juice, I add only sugar. A purist in this matter, I let no commercial pectin taint the efforts of my natural harvest. I depend on the skill of my picking — a blend of ripe and under ripe — to assure a jellied product.

I heat the mixture and the bubbles roll like hot lava. Now and then I skim the lacy scum from the top. When the brew has bubbled itself down, I test a spoonful on the side of a cold dish. It forms a thick skin as it cools. I haven’t lost the touch. I

have jelly.

With tongs, I pull my assortment of small jars — mustard, baby food, pimento — from their boiling bath and place them on the kitchen table. I fill them one by one.

For the next hour, I rid the kitchen of purple, scouring the floor, counters and stove.

I sit at the table licking the saved sweetness from one wooden spoon. The next day, after the jellies are set, I store them in the safety of the basement. There I hoard them. And on bleak days, I will bring them up, one at a time, like sunbursts. My summer in a jar.

‘Sod and Stubble’ wraps filming despite strike, weather

By Joe Stumpe

Like the protagonists in his current film project, Ken Spurgeon faced some challenges while making “Sod and Stubble” this summer.

First came the strike by the actor’s union, SAG-AFTRA. Then came the blistering heat.

After shutting down for a few days, Spurgeon received a waiver from the union that allowed him to resume filming, as many independent movie and TV projects did.

As for the weather, the show had to go on, and it did.

“We filmed many days when it was over 100 degrees, and most of it was filmed outside,” Spurgeon said, adding that most interior scenes were filmed in buildings without air conditioning.

“It was a hot film set, for sure. Everybody stayed healthy, which was our biggest chore. We had a nurse on set every day. You can see how important that is with 40 people” in

the crew.

“Sod and Stubble” is based on a non-fiction novel by University of Kansas professor John Ise that was first published in 1936. The book closely follows the good and bad real-life events involving Ise’s large family, who were pioneer farmers of German descent in Kansas in the 1870s.

“It’s a bit of a pioneer love story — love of family and love of the land,” Spurgeon said.

Spurgeon, a history professor at Friends University, wrote the screenplay five or six years ago. Work on the film began in earnest about a year ago, with funding from an investment group formed for that purpose.

Filming took 25 days. The crew used Old Cowtown Museum as a backdrop for six days and spent a day each at the McCormick School Museum and the Kansas Oil Museum in El Dorado, where Spurgeon is a

consultant. Most of the filming was centered in Downs in north-central Kansas, about three miles from where events in the book actually took place.

“We had a set and house built there by incredible people in Downs,” Spurgeon said.

The film’s leads are Bailey Chase and Dodie Brown but the bestknown cast member is Barry Corbin, who’s appeared in “Urban Cowboy,” “Northern Exposure,” “Yellowstone” and many other films and TV shows. Mark Mannette, Newman University’s director of theatre, served as Spurgeon’s assistant director.

Spurgeon’s previous films, “Home on the Range” and “Road to Valhalla,” both won Best Documentary awards from the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City. He considers “Sod and Stubble” his first full-length feature and says it’s much more ambitious in scope. He hopes to wrap up post

production work by the spring and find a buyer for the film.

“When you get out there and actually do it, it’s a lot different than talking about it,” he said of making a movie. “It’s a lot of work, and you’re constantly evaluating what you’re doing and saying, ‘We can do better tomorrow.'0”

Courtesy photo "Sod and Stubble" director Ken Spurgeon, center, is shown with cast members Darby Hinton and McDonough.

Niki Lewis Shepherd is the author of “The Wintering,” a novel set in western Kansas in the 1880s.

Best medical alert systems you don’t have to wear

Dear Savvy Senior, Are there any monitored medical alert devices that you know of that don’t require pushing a wearable help button?

My 82-year-old father, who lives alone, has fallen twice during the past year but doesn’t like wearing an SOS pendant button.

Dear Searching,

Searching Daughter

Yes, there are actually several monitored medical alert systems and other technologies on the market today that have voice-activated capabilities that let seniors call for help using voice commands, without pushing a wearable help button.

These new technologies are very helpful for elderly seniors who live alone who forget, or prefer not to wear a help button, as well as for those who have physical challenges that makes using a help button difficult.

By simply speaking the “wake words” these devices will connect your dad to a trained dispatcher at a 24/7 monitoring center who will find out what the problem is and get him the help he needs, whether it’s calling emergency services or contacting a family member, friend or neighbor to come and help him.

All of these technologies also offer family/caregiver smartphone apps that will help you keep tabs on your dad from afar and notify you know if a problem occurs.

Hands-free medical alerts

Some of the best voice-focused medical alert systems available today are GetSafe, Aloe Care Health and HandsFree Health.

Rated by U.S. News & World Report as their No. 1 medical alert system for 2023, GetSafe (GetSafe. com) comes with a cellular base console, voice-activated and push wall buttons, an optional personal help button and fall detection sensors. To call for help your dad would simply say “Call 911” twice and he would be connected to GetSafe’s 24/7 monitoring service.

Prices for GetSafe start at $79 plus a $30 monthly monitoring fee.

Another highly rated system is Aloe Care Health (AloeCare.com), which comes with a voice-activated Smart Hub and optional wearable help button with fall detection capabilities.

This system would connect your dad to the Aloe Care 24/7 monitoring center by simply saying “Emergency” repeatedly until connected.

It can also make voice command nonemergency calls to preassigned contacts. Prices start at $150 plus a monthly fee of $30.

The WellBe by HandsFree Health (HandsFreeHealth.com) is a nice third option to consider. This comes with the WellBe Medical Alert Speaker that would let your dad call for help by saying “OK WellBe Call Emergency.” WellBe also offers hands-free calling and messaging to contacts, will answer health questions and provide reminders for medications and doctor appointments. It also offers a medical alert watch and pendant (sold separately) with fall detection capabilities. WellBe starts at $100 plus $20/month.

Smart home solution

Instead of a traditional medical

alert system, another terrific handsfree way to call for help is to get your dad an Amazon Echo device (prices range from $50 to $250) and sign him up for Alexa Together (Amazon. com/AlexaTogether). This is a remote caregiving service that will turn his Echo into a medical alert system. To get help your dad would say “Alexa, call for help” to be connected to their 24/7 Urgent Response center.

Alexa Together, which costs $20/ month, also works with compatible third-party fall detection devices like Vayyar and AltumView. If a fall is detected, Alexa can ask your dad if he needs help, then connect him to the Urgent Response line and alert his emergency contacts.

Amazon Echo devices also let a user ymake hands-free calls, receive reminders, set timers and more.

More Savvy Senior

Find more Savvy Senior tips at theactiveage.com, including:

1. How to plan a green funeral

2. How does Medicare cover preventive health services?

3. Retirement planning tips for single women

Donate for chance to win Botanica family membership

Donate at least $50 to The Active Age, and you could win a family membership to Botanica. The Active Age will hold a drawing for a family membership each month for the next six months from among people on our “Honor Roll” list of donors. This month's winner is

Nancy Deyoe. Donations may be made by calling 316-942-5385; through our website, theactiveage.com; by mail to The Active Age, 125 S. West St., Suite 105, Wichita, KS, 67213; or in person at the same address.

Wichita's Number 1 Stairlift & Home Elevator Dealer 316-304-2845

Affordable Home Elevator and Stairlift Company

Showroom: 1639 S Meridian Wichita, KS 67213

The singing and dancing multi-instrumentalist is sure to dazzle and wow audiences of all ages

Accompanied by a Big Band, this high energy performance is surely one you don't want to miss!

Saturday - September 30th 8:00 p.m. Call 316-612-7696 or visit www.crownuptown.com for tickets

Indian bread is versatile

Congratulations to Annette Van Blaricum of Wichita, winner of a $25 gift certificate to The Spice Merchant for submitting this international recipe.

From 2010-2012, Van Blaricum tutored two youngsters from India whose parents managed a hotel in Pratt. She found this recipe for the Indian bread known as naan on the internet and made it for them.

Naan is traditionally served as a

2 tablespoons warm water

1 package quick-acting yeast

1 teaspoon white sugar

½ teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

2½ to 3 cups plain flour

¾ cup thick, plain yogurt

“wrap” for grilled meat or used to mop up curries and other saucy dishes. Van Blaricum notes that it’s also delicious with jam, jelly or honey. Because it contains a fair amount of butter, the bread will keep for several days if stored properly.

If you have an international recipe you’d like to submit, send it to: The Active Age, 125 S. West St., Suite 105, 67213; or email joe@theactiveage.com

Naan

4 tablespoons melted butter, plus more for brushing

1 egg, beaten

Directions:

Stir together first three ingredients in a small bowl. Place flour, salt and baking powder in a larger bowl and make a well in the middle. Add yogurt, melted buter, beaten egg and the yeast mixture to the well. Mix well, adding more flour as needed to make a smooth ball. Knead dough 5 to 8 minutes. Cover with a slightly damp cloth and let dough rise in a warm place for 1½ to 2 hours.

Preheat oven to 500 degrees. Divide the dough into 8 pieces. Roll out into flat oblong shapes. Place 2 or 3 on a greased sheet pan and bake for three minutes on top shelf. Remove and brush with melted butter.

Win tickets to Sweden’s ‘Queen of Swing’

The Active Age and Crown Uptown Theatre are giving away four pairs of tickets to see Gunhild Carling, a Swedish performer who sings, dances, juggles and plays 11 musical instruments — including three trumpets at once on one song. Backed by a big band, Carling specializes in the classic jazz of 1920s era New Orleans, but also is known for swing

versions of songs such as Abba’s “Dancing Queen.” Audience members are encouraged to dance.

To enter our drawing for tickets for the Sept. 30 show, visit The Active Age website, theactiveage.com, and fill out the form at the top of the page. You can also mail the form below to The Active Age, 125 S. West St., Suite 105, Wichita, KS, 67213.

The caller said he was IRS. What I heard was a scam.

AARP Fraud Watch Network® helps you recognize government impostor scams, so your money, health and happiness live longer. The younger you are, the more you need AARP. Learn more at aarp.org/fraudwatchnetwork

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Call for an Appointment with Wichita’s most experienced fitter today. We file

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SEPTEMBER 8, 11 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.

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Lifelong Learning

Check out our 10 new Lifelong Learning courses for this fall!

The courses are FREE* for Kansas residents 60+ years old, if enrolled by September 13, 2023. All courses will be o ered in-person or online; registration is required classes will be held at 1-3 pm at the Wichita State University Metropolitan Complex located at 5015 E. 29th St. North. Students who select the online option will receive a link via email each week to view the class on their own device. Students can choose to watch the link live during the class time or can watch the recording at their convenience.

Fall 2023 Courses

The Life and Work of Vincent van Gogh | Wednesdays, Sept. 6, 13, 27 & Oct. 4

William Shakespeare and Christopher Marlowe | Tuesdays, Oct. 10, 24, 31 & Nov. 14

Name That Rock! An Introduction to Rocks, Minerals and Their Identification | Fridays, Aug. 11, 18 & Sept. 1, 8

Finding Fossils: An Introduction to Paleontology and Earth's Geologic History | Fridays, Oct. 27, Nov. 10, 17 & Dec. 1

Wichita's Neighborhoods | Mondays, Aug. 28, Sept. 11, 25 & Oct. 2

Remember the Ladies | Tuesdays, Sept. 12, 19, 26 & Oct. 3

Native Americans Advocating for Native Americans | Mondays, Oct. 9, 23, 30 & Nov. 13

How to Know You Know | Wednesday, Oct. 18, 25 & Nov. 1, 15

Developing Countries: Challenges and Implications for the U.S. | Thursdays, Aug. 10, 17, 24 & 31

Movie Musicals: Escapism or Reality Check? | Tuesdays, Aug. 8, 15, 22 & 29

11:00 a.m. Welcome & Speaker, Marco Alcocer, Editor, El Perico Informador

12:00 p.m. Lunch & Learn Series ~

Immune, Prosperity, Healthy Aging

12:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Vaccination Clinic (covid & flu)

3:45 p.m. Ice Cream Social & Booths

5:30 p.m. Folkloric Dancers, Horace Mann Students

6:30 p.m. Invitational Dinner, Speaker Angela Martinez

KS Representative District 10 3 ~ Voting Rights in KS.

$25.00 RSVP 316-267-1700 ~ Space is limited

La Familia Sr Community Center 841 W 21st N. Wichita, KS 67203

a.m. ~ RSVP

(FREE packet worth $65 for those completing data form)

Senior Expo ~ KPTS ~September 28th 10 a.m - 3:00 p.m. 8710 E 32nd St North

Immune Building/Vaccine Awareness, by LaFamilia many booths.

Nursing Meeting ~ October 13th

Booth on Immune Building ~ Registration required, Contact 785-233-8638 ext 300 Dana Erickson, KSNA Executive Director

Fall

Sept. 8, 11 am - 7:30 pm at La Familia Center

All fundraising proceeds to La Familia Center

Sorority Sighting- Beta Sigma Phi members enjoyed an outing at Bartlett Arboretum in Belle Plaine. Founded in Abilene, Kan., in 1930, the non-academic sorority has about 100 members in the Wichita area. Although primarily a social and cultural group, Beta Sigma Phi supports the Carpenter Place children’s home and awarded five college scholarships this year. From left to right are Lana Stone, Donna Murphy, Darlene Melton, Kathleen Allen, Sherri Lichtenberger and Sharilyn Heiman.

Promote pollinators with native plants

Meagan Cramer

Kansas Living

One out of every three bites of food we eat is because of pollinators — the buzzy and busy insects and animals that pollinate and fertilize plants. In fact, almost 80 percent of the 1,400 crops grown around the world require pollination. And some of the foods we enjoy most like almonds, apples, pears, coffee beans and cocoa beans are very dependent on pollinators.

What do you imagine a pollinator looks like? A plump little bumblebee comes to mind first, but there are many types of pollinators. They do include our friend the bumblebee and other bees, but wasps, moths, butterflies, birds, flies, ants and bats (yes, bats!) are also pollinators.

Some pollinators (like bees) collect

Courtside Homes

pollen on purpose while others do it all by accident. Pollen sticks to them while they are drinking or feeding on nectar on flower blooms and is then moved from flower to flower.

Pollinator Prairie

If you’d like to see a pollinator garden in action, visit the Pollinator Prairie at 320 S. Blake St. in Olathe. Formerly a hazardous waste site, today the area has been cleaned up and consists mostly of native plants that provide sources of food, shelter and safe areas for breeding pollinators like bees, birds, butterflies and Monarch butterflies. Besides creating a healthy and beautiful area for local residents, the garden’s other goals include showing them what a thriving pollinator garden looks like.

From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday,

Sept. 30, the garden will hold its Hasta Luego Monarchs celebration for Monarch butterflies passing through on their way to Mexico.

Dyck Arboretum

Another great resource in Kansas is Dyck Arboretum of the Plains in Hesston, a public garden owned by Hesston College that sits on 30 acres. It’s one of the largest native plant gardens in the region, featuring more than 1,000 varieties of native and

Enjoy life knowing our Medicare team is here to help.

Looking

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We have offices across the state. Schedule your consultation in Hutchinson, Manhattan, Salina, Topeka or Wichita.

adaptable trees, shrubs, wildflowers and grasses.

From Sept. 8-10, it will host FloraKansas: Native Plant Days, which raises money through the sale of

See next page

plants. Katie Schmidt, the arboretum’s horticulturist, says fall is a perfect time to plant native plants because the weather is milder.

Schmidt has three tips for anyone just starting to plant for pollinators: Start small: Most of us are taught how to care for lawns and annuals and not native plants. There’s a learning curve, so start small with a back corner of your yard. When that is up and established, move on to another section. It will be easier to manage the watering and weeding.

Treat it like an experiment: Things are going to die, and plants will need to be replaced because you’re learning about new ones. Schmidt says even as a professional, she still kills a lot of plants, so don’t be discouraged.

Use your resources: Schmidt encourages everyone to check out Dyck's website, dyckarboretum.org, and look at its blogs and social media.

Attracting monarchs

Matthew McKernan, Kansas State University Research and Extension horticulture agent in Sedgwick County, has another tip for anyone getting started with pollinator gardens.

“People need to understand it’s not always going to look pristine,” he says. “You want larvae to eat the leaves so you can get new butterflies. Expect some holes in leaves from time to time or plants to get partially eaten while they support our ecosystem.”

McKernan encourages gardeners to look for a variety of plants that will bloom from spring through fall

because this strategy will create an attractive landscape and provide a continuous food source for pollinators, since something will always be in bloom.

If you’re interested in attracting monarch butterflies, McKernan says monarch caterpillars only eat milkweed.

For questions about native plants or pollinators, contact your local Kansas State University Research and Extension agent.

Supporting pollinators on the farm

Royce and Sharon Schmidt have 40 acres of farmland in Harvey County that’s been in their family for three generations. The couple has made a concerted effort to turn the land back to prairie after Sharon became concerned when the fruit trees in their orchard weren’t producing fruit.

They reseeded most of their acreage to native grass, and their neighbor cuts it for hay. They leave five acres unmowed and two acres are set aside as a pollinator garden. Their work has paid off with an uptick in pollinator activity and fruit production.

“We have a creek that runs through our property and when I walk through, I can see a buzz of things,” Sharon says. “The number of butterflies, bees, different moths and even birds is incredible.”

Katie Schmidt’s favorite pollinator: Wasps because they are great pollinators, and many eat pests like aphids. Just don’t put your face next to their nest.

Katie’s favorite pollinator plant: Purple prairie clover. It gives pollinators so much nectar and pollen in one place. It’s also the best cut flower.

Square dancing classes back

The Village Steppers club is offering lessons for the next several months in addition to holding its regular dances.

Starting Sept. 19 and continuing into early December, the lessons will be held every Tuesday and Thursday from 7-8:30 p.m. in the Oaklawn Elementary school, 5000 S. Clifton. The lessons cost a total of $25 per

Celebration

person, which also gets participants entry to the club’s regular dances.

Those dances are held at 7:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Saturday of each month, starting Sept. 9 and ending May 11, at the Oaklawn Activity Center, 4904 S. Clifton. The cost is $6 per person.

Mike Huddleston, an instructor and the club’s “caller,” said the Village

Steppers are one of 16 square dancing clubs in the area, and that many start lessons in September.

For a complete list of the clubs and their contact information, visit kansassquaredance.com. For information about the Village Steppers, contact Huddleston at (316) 524-0997.

107 Birthday

Imogene Tice will celebrate her 107th birthday on Sept. 13. Send birthday greetings to: Imogene Tice, Azria Health, 7057 W. Village Circle, Apt. 210, Wichita, KS, 67205.

www.theactiveage.com

NOTE:The Active Age is printing regularly scheduled senior center activities as space permits. Please email Joe at joe@theactiveage.com to have your center’s activities listed.

Calendar of eventS

SedgwiCk County Senior CenterS

BEL AIRE

7651 E Central Park Ave

744-2700, ext 304 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

Mon: 10 am Chair Yoga

Mon: 1 pm Dominoes

Tue, Thu: 10 am STEPS

Tue, Thu: 11 am Cards

Fri: 10:30 am Drumming

Fri: 12:30 pm Game Time

Fri: 1 pm Tai Chi KECHI Kechi City Building, 744-0217, 744-1271

LA FAMILIA

841 W 21st, 267-1700

LINWOOD 1901 S Kansas, 263-3703

MCADAMS GOLDEN AGE 1329 E 16th, 337-9222

MT HOPE 105 S Ohio, 667-8956

MULVANE 632 E Mulvane, 777-4813

Tue: 8-9:30 a.m. Coffee and donuts

2nd Tue: 8-9:30 a.m. Mulvane

Senior Breakfast, $3.

NORTHEAST 2121 E 21st, 269-4444

OAKLAWN 2937 Oaklawn Dr, 524-7545

ORCHARD PARK 4808 W 9th, 942-2293

PARK CITY

6100 N Hydraulic, 744-1199

VALLY CENTER COMMUNITY CENTER 314 E Clay, 755-7350

2nd Mon: 11 a.m. Computer/ smartphone class

4th Thu: 12:30 pm Bingo

Tues: 6:30 pm 10 Point Pitch

Tue, Thu: 10:30-11:15 am WellREP exercise

Tue, Thu: 6-8 pm Pickleball

Fri: 9 a.m. Line dancing

Butler County Senior CenterS

ANDOVER

410 Lioba Dr, 733-4441

www.andoverks.com

AUGUSTA

640 Osage, 775-1189

BENTON

Lion’s Community Bldg, S Main St

CASSODAY

Cassoday Senior Center

133 S. Washington, 620-735-4538

DOUGLASS

124 W 4th, 746-3227

EL DORADO 210 E 2nd, 321-0142

LEON

112 S Main, 745-9200 or 742-9905

ROSE HILL

207 E Silknitter, 776-0170

Senior wedneSdayS

www.seniorwednesday.org

September 6

10:30 am Wichita Art Museum

1400 W. Museum Blvd., $2 admission. Sketching in the Galleries.

1:30 pm Museum of World Treasures

835 E. 1st St. Info unavailable

September 13

10 am Sedgwick County Zoo, 5555 Zoo Blvd. (316) 266-8213,

$4 Day to Day Dinosaurs

1:30 pm Advanced Learning Library, 711 W, 2nd, (316) 261-8500, Free. Iconic Eats of Wichita.

September 20

10 am Ulrich Museum of Art, 1845 N. Fairmount. Memoir: Telling Your Story.

1:30 pm Great Plains Nature Center, 6232 E 29th St N. Info unavailable

September 27

10 am Wichita-Sedgwick County Historical Museum, 204 S. Main. The Life and Times of Rea Woodman by Jim Mason

1:30 pm Mid American All-Indian museum. 650 N Seneca (316) 3503340, $2 + tax admission; free for MAAIM members. Info unavailable

danCeS

Derby Sr Center, 611 Mulberry. 1st & 3rd Tuesday 7pm-9:30 pm.

El Dorado Jam & Dance, Senior Center, 210 E. 2nd.

Goldenrod Golden Age, 1340 S Pattie.

Dances every Wednesday 7pm-9:30pm.

Linwood Golden Age, 1901 S Kansas. Every

Saturday 7pm-9:30pm. Call Jim 316-945-9451

Minisa Golden Age, 704 W 13th. Info

617-2560. Every Thursday 7pm9:30pm. Call Rita 316-364-1702

Mulvane, 101 E. Main (Pix Community Center

Second Tuesday of every month at 7-9 pm.

Oaklawn Activity Center, 4904 S. Clifton.

Contra Dance1st Saturday of each month.

7pm-9pm. Call Amanda at 316-361-6863.

Orchard Park Golden Age, 4808 W 9th. Every Friday 7pm-9:30pm. Call Casey 316-706-7464 Park City Sr Center, 6100 N Hydraulic.

1st and 3rd Saturday 7-9:30 p.m. Info: 755-1060. Line Dance every Wednesday 2:30pm. Call Madison 316-744-1199. Square dance 2nd & 4th Sunday 6pm-8:30 pm.

Prairie Wind Dancers: Plymouth Congregational Church, 202 N Clifton. Joyce, 683-1122. Village Steppers Square Dance, Oaklawn Activity Center, 4904 S Clifton.

Westside Steppers Square Dance, 1st and 3rd Sunday of each month, 6-8:30 p.m., West Heights United Methodist (entrance "D"), 745 N. Westlink Ave. Info: Sheldon Lawrence (316) 648-7590.

TOWANDA 317 Main, 776-8999

Open 10:30 am-5 pm Mon, Wed, Fri

WHITEWATER Legion Hall, 108 E Topeka

Harvey County

BURRTON

124 N Burrton, 620-463-3225

HALSTEAD 523 Poplar, 835-2283

HESSTON

Randall & Main, 620-327-5099

www.hesstonseniorcenter.com

NEWTON AREA SENIOR CENTER

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

NOTE: AGING PROJECTS, INC. PLANNED TO MAKE FRIENDSHIP MEALS AVAILABLE THROUGH PICK UP AND DELIVERY IF NECESSARY. FOR INFORMATION, CONTACT YOUR LOCAL MEAL SITE OR CALL 316-686-0074

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 316-686-0074

WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 4

Mon: HOLIDAY.

Tue: Sloppy Joe on bun, coleslaw w/ carrots, peaches.

Wed: Chicken & Rice cass, green beans, pineapple, breadstick.

Thu: Chicken soft taco, mexican rice, Fiesta corn & black bean salad,craisins.

Fri:Tuna salad, croissant, tomato salad, blushing pears.

WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 11

Mon: Glazed chicken, mixed vegetab;es, ambrosia fruit salad, wheat roll.

Tue: Ham & Swiss broc pasta, corn, peaches, breadstick.

Wed: Chicken & cheese cass, peas and carrots, fruit cocktail, garlic toast..

Thu: Cranberry meatballs, mashed potatoes, cinnamon apples, wheat roll, chef's choice birthday cake.

Fri: Salisbury steak, green beans, apricots, wheat bread.

WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 18

Mon: Ham & beans, potatoes & onion. pears, cornbread muffin.

Tue: Breaded chicken patty on un, calico salad, applesauce.

Wed: Tuna Noodle cass w/ peas, mixed vegetables, mixed fruit, garlic cheddar biscuit.

Thu: Hot turkey sandwich, mashed potatoes, wheat bread, cantalope slice .

Fri: Goulash, green beans, pineapple, garlic breadstick.

WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 25

Mon: BBQ pork riblet, hoagie roll, scalloped potatoes, aprictos.

Tue: Meatloaf, mashed potatoes, fruit cocktail, wheat roll.

Wed: Turkey w/ noodles, diced carrots, pineapple, garlic toast.

Thu: Calico beef and beans, corn, apple & cherry crisp, cornbread muffin.

Fri: Scalloped chicken, mixed vegetables, pears, wheat bread.

* Milk is served with all meals. Meals fall within the following ranges: Calories 650-750; protein 25 grams or higher; fat 20 to 30 percent of calories; calcium 400 mg or higher; sodium 1,000 grams or less; fiber 9 grams or higher.

FUNDING MADE POSSIBLE THROUGH THE OLDER AMERICANS ACT, KDADS AND CENTRAL PLAINS AREA AGENCY ON AGING

* Milk is served with all meals. Meals fall within the following ranges: Calories 650-750; protein 25 grams or higher; fat 20 to 30 percent of calories; calcium 400 mg or higher; sodium 1,000 grams or less; fiber 9 grams or higher.

FUNDING MADE POSSIBLE THROUGH THE OLDER AMERICANS ACT, KDADS AND CENTRAL PLAINS AREA AGENCY ON AGING

F BATHING SPECIALIST F

WE INSTALL EASY ACCESS

Walk-in Showers & Bathtubs

Huge Senior Discounts

"Bathe Safer" 316-633-9967

www.bathroomheadquarters.com

F CEMETERY PROPERTY FOR SALE F

Resthaven, Garden of Freedom, 1 Plot, $3,000 plus transfer fee. 405-751-8801.

White Chapel, Garden of Gethsemane, 2 plots w/ vaults, side by side. $2,800 plus transfer fee OBO. 913-558-0486

4 plots in Resthaven in Rose Garden. Section 62 lots C1,C2,C3 & C4. 1 marker, 2 vaults, 2x-opening/ closing. $22,000 for all or will sell separately. Transfer fee included. Call 316-992-1931.

2 burial spaces and 1 vault at Resthaven. One sealing vault, one opening and closing and one bronze makrer. Located in the Garden of Christus. Selling both spaces and the vault for $11,000. 240338-9743.

Garden of the Praying Hands, Resthaven, Lot 38D, Space 2, $4,000. 785-478-4015

Lakeview Cemetary - Everlasting Life DoubleDipped Lawn Crypt - C-11 Space 10. Retail $7,500, asking $4,500 OBO. Call Scott 213-798-8689

ESTATE SALE: White Chapel Memorial Gardens. 2 burial plots, valued at $1,899e ach sell for $1,500 each. One 2-piece concrete vault. Valued at $1,348. Sell for $1,000 plus transfer fee. 541-840-0783

Lakeview Everlasting Life Lot 102 Spaces 3 and 4. Will sell both for $3800. Seller pays transfer fees. Cash, cashiers check or certified check only. Call 316-259-4446

Kechi Cemetery. 6523 N Hillside. 2 spaces available. Value at $2,000 asking $1,500 for both. Call Kenny Miller 316-358-0670.

Resthaven Cemetary Garden of Faith, Prime location. 2 lots on center isle. 48A&B. $12,500. 316617-8581

Resurrection Cemetery. 2 single niches. D1 & D2. $1,500 each plus $100 transfer fee. Call 316-729-0649.

The plot is in Lakeview Gardens in the Garden of Memory, Lot 21. Lakeview values it at $4,125 as the section is nearly full - we’d sell for $3,250 with seller paying the transfer fee.

2 plots at Lakeview in Holy Rosary section. Lot 52 #3&4. $3,000 for both plots or $1,500 each OBO. Call 316-461-4061.

White Chapel ~ Garden of Love

2 stacked plots $4,000 and seller pays transfer fee 316-529-4152

FOOT CARE IN YOUR HOME

Cheryl Rosine ~ The Foot Lady ICMT RN

• 316-312-2025 • Benjamin Jones ~ CNAICR

• 316-932-8524•

$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.

Wanted reliable person with house keeping skills. Will also have some simple out door duties. 3 days a week. For interview in person call 316-682-5766.

Needing someone to clean home. Willing to pay $20/hr. 316-744-0288.

Dave’s Improvements General Contractor Lic #7904 Roofing, Siding, Doors, Gutters, Windows, Storm damage repair, Senior Discount. 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 miscellaneous,hauling dirt, sand, and rock/gravel upto 3.5 tons. What you need done I can probably handle. Call for HELP! Brian 316-217-0882. Free Estimates

Cope-N-Land Home Improvements

Steps,

Downsizing?

Don't have an Auction, or Estate Sale. We Buy Entire Estates. Call Kelly 316-283-8536. Furniture Warehouse 200 Main Newton, KS

Vinyl Siding and Windows. Many Colors and Styles to choose from.Free Estimates. City Licensed and Insured since 1977. 316-312-0877

Cowboy Construction Remodeling, siding, decks, fences, windows, doors and more. 20 years locally owned. Free estimates. Senior discounts.

Todd Wenzel 316-393-4488 F

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

Derby, Haysville, Mulvane, Rose Hill, Wichita Exterior & Interior. House painting, siding, decks, fences. Build, repair and stain. (SEE REVIEWS)- KC KIMBALL DERBY KS ANGI Free Estimates. Be Blessed. Thank you 316-250-2265 or 316-789-9639

MOBILE GLASS REPAIR

Hauling Handyman Brush, Junk /Trash Removal MISC. ODD JOBS, NO JOB TOO SMALL Honest & Reasonable. 316-807-4989.

Private Duty Aide with light house keeping. Availability evenings and weekends. References upon request.

Cynthia CNA/HHA 316-992-6711

28 YR EXPERIENCED LICENSED HOME HEALTH AIDE Providing rides to Dr etc. Home Health Care Specializing in Dementia/Diabetes. Ref avail. Kay 316-882-9127

F HELP WANTED F

Windows * Patio * Doors Windows won’t stay up, Crank Outs, Patio Rollers and Lock Latches, Morris Glass & Service, 316-946-0745

Also occasional on as needed basis. 316-207-3145

12499978 Rail Kit 2013-2017 Buick Enclave Thule Ascent 1500 15 cubic feet luggage carrier; Champion & Blower Forge Company Lancaster, PA Antique Drill; B-R Electric & Telephone Co celebrated K-C telephone; Maisto, Welly. 1-18 Die Cast Models. 316-648-4532.

Lawn Service FALL CLEANUP Mowing Bush and hedge trimming, bed work, mulching, odd jobs and hauling. Free estimates. Larry 316-210-5370.

Henricks Lawn Care Owner/operator 35 yrs. experience. Lawn /landscaping/tree & shrub care. Spring & Fall cleanup, gutter cleaning & hauling. Servicing West Wichita, Goddard, Cheney, Colwich areas Toby Henricks 316-680-9183

Always wanted a garden you could be proud of and enjoy? Call Robert for garden planning, planting and maintenance. No job too big or too small. Free

Tree Trimming Junk Removal

Brock Eastman 316.765.1677

Affordable

F SERVICES F

'Let us Help you- Medical Loan Closet!' Call 316-779-8989

Downsizing / Moving / Fall Cleaning

We buy everything from individual items to whole estates. House cleanout service also available. Give us a call to learn more about all the services we provide Bud Palmer Auction 316.838.4141 BudPalmerAuction.com

Felipe Tree Service Evergreen trimming. Tree removal. Brush hauling. Splitting. Deadwooding. Free estimates. 12 years experience. 316-807-4419

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

Medicare counseling available through SHICK

By Melissa Reeves Schrag

Are you new to Medicare and want to better understand the program? Do you have questions about eligibility, signing up, Original Medicare Parts A and B, Medigap (supplement insurance), Part D, Medicare Advantage Plans or how to get help paying for Medicare costs?

The Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas (SHICK) Assistance Program can help. A SHICK options class will be offered on Tuesday, Sept. 19th from 4:00 to 5:30 pm at the Derby Friends Church, 1034

N. Woodlawn. Registration is required. Call the church at (316) 788-1751 or email josiah@derbyfriendschurch.com or call SHICK staff at (316) 660-0126. There is no cost to attend.

If you are already on Medicare, you should know that the open enrollment period for Part D runs from Oct. 15 through Dec. 7. During this time, beneficiaries have the opportunity to change their Medicare Part D prescription drug plans.

All beneficiaries should review their coverage even if they’re content with their current plan.

Medicare Part D plans can vary in terms of cost, coverage, and benefits. Here are some reasons to review Medicare Part D:

1. Changing health needs: As time passes, health needs may evolve and you might require different medications or dosages. Reviewing your Part D plan allows you to ensure that your current medications are covered and that you’re not paying for unnecessary or non-preferred drugs.2

2. Cost savings: By reviewing your Part D plan, you may identify costsaving opportunities. Different plans have varying premiums, copayments, and deductibles. By comparing plans, you might find one that offers the same coverage at a lower cost or better coverage for a slightly higher premium.

3. Formulary changes: Part D plans have formularies, which are lists of covered drugs. These formularies can change from year to year, so it’s important to check if your medications are still covered and at what cost.

4. Network changes: Part D plans have networks of pharmacies where you can get your medications at the most favorable terms. If your preferred pharmacy is no longer in your plan’s network, it could impact your out-ofpocket costs.

I am a Caregiver

CPAAA is here to help guide older adults and caregivers by providing information, assistance and support.

855-200-2372 • CPAAA.org

5. Plan ratings: The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provide star ratings for Medicare Part D plans based on their performance and customer satisfaction. Reviewing these ratings can give you insights into the quality and reliability of different plans.

Reviewing your Part D drug plan can seem daunting, but there is help available. The Medicare Plan Finder on the official Medicare website, medicare. gov, can simplify the process by comparing plans based on your specific drugs and pharmacy preference.

You can also meet with a SHICK Medicare counselor. To make an appointment, call the SHICK office in Sedgwick County at (316) 660-0126. SHICK has offices in the Sedgwick County Extension Center, 7001 W 21st St. N.; the WSU Metroplex, 5015 East 29th St. N.; and the Oaklawn Activity Center, 4904 S. Clifton Ave. Residents of Butler and Harvey counties should call the Central Plains Area Agency on Aging at (316) 6605132 or (800) 367-7298, ext. 5132. Counseling is also available by phone. Appointments are available on a first come, first served basis.

Melissa Reeves Schrag is the adult and aging agent with the K-State Research and Extension-Sedgwick County office.

Wichita Foot & Ankle Wound Center, LLC

Christopher Surtman, DPM 316.652.5251 office call for an appt. 316-652-9913 fax

Podiatric Services & Wound Care

Heel

Podiatric Services &

Heel Pain, Arch Pain, Corns & Callouses, Fungal & Ingrown Nails, Ulcers Try our NEW LIGHT ORTHOTICS, wear them home

220 Hillside, Suite B (located behind the Neurology Center of Wichita)

/ FAX (316) 264-6910 (BASIC ADULT CREMATION $895)

My husband can’t drive anymore, I take him where he needs to go.

‘Unwinding' of Medicaid could put your coverage at risk

By Monica Cissell

In Kansas and across the nation, Medicaid beneficiaries are at risk for losing their Medicaid coverage and critical services. Safeguards were put in place to ensure that individuals on Medicaid would not lose their coverage during the pandemic. Since the Public Health Emergency ended on May 11, 2023, all states are resuming the regular renewal process. This may put eligible individuals at risk if they don’t take proper action.

The Kaiser Family Foundation has estimated that between 8 and 24

million people will lose Medicaid coverage during what is being called the “unwinding of Medicaid.” Many of these individuals may still be eligible for Medicaid but will lose coverage because they didn’t return needed forms or an error was made either by the state agency overseeing Medicaid or the individual. The Medicaid process is complicated and many eligible individuals may not be aware of the requirements or may be unable to complete the tasks required to maintain coverage.

In Kansas, the Medicaid program

is called KanCare and three Managed Care Companies provide coverage, services and supports to beneficiaries (Aetna, Sunflower Health Plan and United Healthcare Community Plan).

Everyone covered by Medicaid should:

Renew coverage — Over the next 12 months, everyone with health care coverage including HCBS in-home services through Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) will need to renew their coverage. When forms arrive in the mail, respond in a timely manner. If you don’t, you may lose your coverage even if you are still eligible. You should respond even if you are not eligible or are enrolled in other coverage. Your children could still be eligible for coverage.

• Update contact information — Update phone, address or any critical contact info with KanCare (800-7924884).

• Learn about appeal options — If you lose Medicaid coverage and think you may still be eligible, there are advocates available to help you understand your appeal options: Call the KanCare Ombudsman at (855) 643-8180 or Kansas’ Elder Hotline at (888) 353-5337.

• Learn about other options — If you are no longer eligible for Medicaid, you should check to see if you can get coverage through your employer or through the Affordable Care Act Marketplace at healthcare.gov. The Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services have established a special enrollment period for the Affordable Care Act Marketplace from March 31, 2023 through July 31, 2024 for anyone who loses Medicaid coverage during unwinding.

• Learn about Medicare coverage — Adults 65 and older and people with disabilities who are eligible for Medicare can also find assistance through the Senior Health Insurance Counseling of Kansas (SHICK) at (800) 860-5260.

According to the Kansas Health Institute, the Kansas Unwinding Plan, developed by Kansas Department for Health and Environment, is to re-determine eligibility for current Medicaid enrollees within 12 months.

Help get the word out, share this article with others you know who may have Medicaid coverage or receive Medicaid services. The Central Plains Area Agency on Aging is here to help. If you have questions, call 855-2002372.

Monica Cissell is director of communications and services for CPAAA.

September Briefs

Empowered Seniors session

“Longevity Secrets: Vibrant and Living Well” is the theme of the free Empowered Seniors session from 10-11:30 a.m. Sept. 14 at Botanica. The guest panel will include Father Tom Welk, Charlie Moon and Cindy Coughenour.

New Register of Deeds office

Sedgwick County Register of Deeds Tonya Buckingham has opened a satellite office at 5620 E. Kellogg Dr., within the Sedgwick County Tag Office. The office is across the street from the Dole VA Medical Center and will record documents, file DD214 military discharge forms and issue military discount cards.

The office is open Monday–Friday 8 a.m.–5 p.m. and closed for an hour at noon for lunch.

Protect yourself from health insurance scams

The Kansas Insurance Department is urging consumers to be on guard against these health insurance scams:

Fake insurance plans: A scammer will contact you unsolicited by phone or email and offer a plan that sounds too good to be true. The plan does not exist; the scammer simply wants to get your personal information for illicit purposes. If you receive such a call, contact the Department’s consumer hotline at 800-432-2484 to confirm the agent is licensed to sell in Kansas.

Medical discount plans: Scammers may try to sell you a

medical discount plan. Discount health plans are not a replacement for health insurance and the promised discounts may be exaggerated or may not exist. Check with your insurance agent before purchasing a discount plan. Phony benefits: Scammers offer a fake plan that offers full benefits at low prices. It will often assure consumers that the plan covers preexisting conditions, specialists and other essential benefits, usually at no extra cost. Contact the Department to confirm that a company is authorized to sell the plan in Kansas

Sunflower Market BUHLER — Gaeddert Farms will hold its fourth annual Sunflower Market from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sept. 2. Admission is $8 to the event, which features craft and food vendors, live music and the farm’s sunflower field maze. For directions, visit gaeddertfarms.com.

Ulrich seeks volunteers

The Ulrich Museum of Art is seeking volunteers to serve as docents and in other capacities, including program and event assistance, community outreach, research and more. If interested, contact Ann. Keefer@wichita.edu Visit

Dances

From Page 1

and attire runs from skirts and sports coats to pressed jeans, boots and cowboy hats. Like the Sawyers, some dance at Minisa Community Facility on Thursdays, Orchard Park on Fridays and the Linwood Recreation Center on Saturdays.

But even though they still fill up the dance floor on occasion, there is concern that falling attendance at some point might cause the get-togethers to be discontinued.

Casey Furnish, who coordinates the Orchard Park dance with her husband, Larry, said the Orchard Park dance used to average about 160 people, and it wasn’t unusual for 200 or even 220 to show up on occasion. Now attendance ranges from 70 to 100.

Organizers report similar falling numbers at Minisa and Linwood. The culprit? You probably guessed it.

“After COVID, things kind of went downhill all the way around,” Furnish said.

Early in the pandemic, the dances were canceled for 15 months. They resumed on a twice-monthly basis in June 2021 and returned to weekly in August of that year. “We never had an outbreak, never had a cluster, so that

was good,” Furnish said. But they also never attracted the same kind of crowds as before.

“It’s not what it used to be, but gosh, we lost a lot of people,” Furnish said. “Especially during COVID, our people passed away because they were isolated. I really believe that.”

Furnish noted that organizers of the Goldenrod Golden Age dance, which had been held on South Pattie, discontinued it, and the dance held at the Augusta Senior Center recently met the same fate.

The Golden Age dances charge $3 per person, almost all of which goes to paying the band. The dances feature a regular rotation of performers

including Reno County, Mood Swings, Timeless, The Pruitts, Triple Play and Jim McCann. Most play a mix of older rock and roll and country tunes, although Mood Swings features a saxophone and Big Band music.

“Some of the people, it’s their era, they love that,” Furnish said.

While the dances could be done with recorded music, dancers left no doubt that live music is a big draw.

They also said the dances are about more than just moving their feet and bodies, as much fun as that can be.

“There’s no drinking or smoking, and everybody’s the same age as you,” said Rosie Miller, a regular at Minisa and Orchard Park for 25 years. “So you can talk to each other and know what each other are talking about.”

Furnish said the dances have “a family feel.” At the Orchard Park dance, two get-well cards were set out at the entrance to be signed for regulars who couldn’t make it.

“People really, really care about one another,” Furnish said. “You’ll see them — even during the music — they’ll stop. They’ll see somebody they haven’t seen in a while, get in a little circle and hug someone.”

To help people stay in touch, the

Don’t

Orchard Park group put out a directory of members’ names and phone numbers if they wanted to be included in it.

At Linwood, members have started a potluck on the second and fourth Saturday of each month. “It’s nice to get together with people — the socializing — and of course the dancing,” said Jim Ruboyianes, who coordinates the Linwood dance with his wife, Donna.

The dances start at 7 p.m., break for a half-hour of refreshments and talk at 8 p.m., and wrap up at 9:30 p.m. Attendees come from as far away from Peck and Winfield.

“One guy is 95, can’t drive, but by golly he gets a ride and he pays the person who brought him,” Furnish said.

Jack Sawyer can’t understand why more don’t do the same.

“They’re missing something,” he said. “Put this message in (The Active Age). You people should get off your butt and dance.”

Photos by Fernando Salazar

Above left, Jerry Fletcher and Charlotte Barr show off some smooth moves at Orchard Park. Above right,Dale Havercroft and Shirley Rowan enjoy a slow number at Orchard Park

More dance information

A list of senior dances in the area can be found on the Calendar page of The Active Age each month.

At Homestead, our team helps seniors remain independent while providing quality care in a friendly environment. Participate in a variety of activities while we take care of homecooked meals, housekeeping and linen service, and more. Let our team help you find the right care solution for your family.