December 2015 - 2
I INSIDE
Volume 31 • Issue 2 December 2015
ON THE COVER Merry Christmas!
A snowman hangs in one of the decorated trees at Prairie Pines Christmas Tree Farm in Maize. Photo by Travis Mounts
Church teams with The Arc for huge Thanksgiving dinner | 5
Features People and Places ......................4 From the Publisher’s Files ..................................................8 Cinema Scene ..............................9 Movie Review............................10 Pet Smarts ..................................11 Dateline.......................................15
Local ‘Iron Man’ heading to world championship | 12
Performing Arts Calendar.....16 Focus On Business...................18 Wichita Homes .........................23
WestSide Story Editorial
WestSide Story
Publisher Paul Rhodes Managing Editor Travis Mounts Graphics Abbygail Wells Reporters/Contributors Sam Jack, Amy Houston, Jim Erickson, Dr. Jason Albertson
Sales & Billing
Sales Valorie Castor, Briana Bade Billing/Circulation Tori Vinciguerra A Division of Times-Sentinel Newspapers 125 N. Main • P.O. Box 544 Cheney, KS 67025 Phone: (316) 540-0500 Fax: (316) 540-3283
Now in our 31st year! The WestSide Story is a monthly newspaper focused on the far west side of Wichita. It is delivered free to most west Wichita homes within our coverage area, although distribution is not guaranteed. Guaranteed home delivery by mail is available for $10 per year. Single copies are available for free in west Wichita Dillons stores and at Times-Sentinel Newspapers. Email story ideas and photographs to news@tsnews.com. Visit us on Facebook. © 2015 Times-Sentinel Newspapers
Compassion at the top of holiday wish list I’m feeling a bit conflicted as we head into the heart of the holiday seasons. Personally, things are great. I spent Thanksgiving Day with my boys and my parents. The rest of my immediate family – consisting of two brothers, one sisterin-law, three nieces and two nephews – were kept away by distance or commitments to other parts of their families. But we will have a chance to be together at Christmas time, and I’m already having a hard time containing my excitement. But as I look at the greater world around me, what I see is a mixed bag of emotions, feelings and actions. This time of year, Americans do seem more compelled and more motivated to help others. We pull tags of Angel Trees and similar things to buy gifts for people less fortunate, and we put food into boxes to help food pantries. For some of us, the effort gets a little more personal. We deliver the food and gifts, and we serve others at dinners for the needy. Maybe we reach out to someone we know personally in need – a friend who is out of work, a co-worker who can’t be with family this year, an elderly neighbor who has no family. But when people in need are more removed from us, it’s more difficult to show compassion. When barriers such as language, culture or religion come up, it is easer to turn off the compassion we’ve been showing to people closer to us, more similar to us. Fear drives some of that. The recent attacks in Paris scared a lot of us, especially those of us who have memories of 9/11. As people started showing their solidarity, often by posting French flags on social media, there was some push-back. There were people who asked about Lebanon and other places that suffered attacks the same day. It’s alright to show support for France. The French have long been a friend of America. They figure into our history as much as Great Britain. We feel for France because we have a connection. We reacted less to bombings in Beirut that claimed 44 lives. But Lebanon is less like America. That country has a significant Christian popu-
Travis Mounts | Managing Editor
lation that wields political power, but it’s more diverse than here. It’s part of the Middle East, a place we just don’t identify with the same way we do with people in Europe.
When people in need are more removed from us, it’s more difficult to show compassion. Our fear has us suspicious of Syrian refugees. Yes, it appears at least one or two of the Paris attackers got into Europe by embedding themselves with refugees. That’s one or two out of hundreds of thousands, and getting to America is a much more difficult proposition. As Christmas nears, I hope we can set our fears aside and reach out to others in the spirit of the season. If “Jesus is the reason for the season,” then we should embrace his words and then embrace those in need. That includes native Wichitans, immigrants from south of our border, and even Syrian refugees should any come our way. I’m no biblical scholar but I believe Jesus, Mary and Joseph were Middle Eastern refugees themselves. I’ll even go so far as to hug someone from Missouri and welcome a Dallas Cowboy fan into my home. ‘Tis the season, right? I’m not asking anyone to change their political views. I’m just making my Christmas wish – a little compassion from each of us and for each of us. And maybe that feeling of caring for each other will carry on into the new year.
Bishop Carroll assistant football coach and former Goddard head coach dies suddently story
by
Sam Jack
Roger Robben, left, celebrated Bishop Carroll’s runner-up State finish with son Riggs Robben and father Bob Robben on Thanksgiving weekend. The Bishop Carroll assistant football coach died unexpectedly Monday morning, Nov. 30. Contributed photo
big win, his father, Bob, greeted him with a hug and a kiss on the forehead. ... I thought it was something that a big man has that relationship with his father, and there was no shame – only praise and respect between them. That was a dynamic between a son and his parents that I wanted to have in my own life.” During San Martin’s 2007 senior season, Robben led the Goddard Lions to a 9-3 finish and a State semifinal berth. Logan Watkins, who was also a senior in 2007, said he and his former teammates still talk about how memorable that year was. “He and the coaches he had with him on the staff made it pretty special,” said Watkins. “We came in as freshmen during
his first year at Goddard, so we all took the journey together. For the seniors and guys I play with, we still talk about it all the time. We’ve got memories that will last a lifetime, from that year, and he’s in a lot of them.” Watkins was drafted into the Chicago Cubs organization after high school, and Robben always cheered him on. “My little brother ended up playing at Goddard, so I would come back for the games, and he’d make time to talk to me and see how I was doing in baseball. He was the kind of guy who really cared,” said Watkins. Eisenhower High School principal Bill Kelley, who worked with Robben as a Goddard administrator and as a
fellow assistant coach at Bishop Carroll, noted that Robben went out of his way to contribute to the community beyond football. “He worked with kids in the summertime on weightlifting programs. He donated a lot of time to the community and to the Catholic community. All around, just a great guy and a good family man,” said Kelley. A Bishop Carroll high school graduate, Robben played football at the University of Kansas, twice earning All-Big Eight honorable mentions. He was inducted into the Kansas Shrine Bowl Hall of Fame in 2007. He had three children, including his son, Riggs, who he coached in the Class 5A State title game Nov. 21.
WestSide Story
Bishop Carroll Catholic High School assistant football coach Roger Robben died suddenly Monday, Nov. 30, after returning from his morning run. Robben was an assistant coach at Bishop Carroll this year and last. He coached at Goddard from 2004 to 2009 and also served as head coach at Remington, Augusta and Buhler. His death at the age of 46 prompted an outpouring of grief and remembrance from current and former students and colleagues. “Roger was Bishop Carroll,” said Alan Schuckman, Bishop Carroll’s head football coach. “He was an alum, and a former employee who returned. In our conversations since he came back, he really felt like he was coming home. He’s entrenched in our community, with his kids here, and it’s definitely a sad loss.” Robben’s Bishop Carroll team learned of his passing at a meeting the same day. “We prayed together and held each other, and talked about the things we learned from Coach Robben,” said Schuckman. “It wasn’t just about what we learned on the field; it’s what we learned from him off the field, with him being a faith-filled man and a great father to his three kids. That’s what I tried to impress on our guys: to learn from him and carry on the things he believed in.” Lucas San Martin, a 2008 Goddard graduate who played offensive and defensive line for Robben, echoed Schuckman’s praise of Robben’s moral character. “I was 17 years old, and going through that maturation process, from an adolescent to an adult. Every child has struggles with family or parents, and Roger exemplified respect and adoration for his mother and father,” said San Martin. “It didn’t matter whether or not we suffered a brutal loss or got a
3 - D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 5
Robben remembered as a family man
December 2015 - 4
A crowd of more than 1,000 gathered for The Thankful Feast, held annually at The Cotillion and put on by Cross Road Church. The meal is for clients of The Arc of Sedgwick County, which serves people with intellectual and development disabilities.
WestSide church provides Thanksgiving meal for 1,000
WestSide Story
STORY
BY
AMY HOUSTON
Most family Thanksgiving meals aren’t followed by a DJ playing dance music, but The Thankful Feast isn’t an ordinary holiday gathering. The Arc of Sedgwick County, which serves those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, invites its clients to an annual meal called The Thankful Feast. The event drew about 1,000 people this year. Cross Road Church, located at 2139 S. Maize Road, makes the meal possible. “It’s a huge blessing for us to have an opportunity to all come together to celebrate the kickoff to the holiday season,” said Kevin Fish, executive director of the Arc of Sedgwick County. “We really are a family, and some we don’t get to see as often as we’d like. It really is a family reunion at times – lots of hugs and smiles. I think the church values the fact that it helps bring smiles to our individuals and gives them the opportunity to connect and feel appreciated and excited about the holidays.”
The church became involved in The Thankful Feast 12 years ago. At that time, the event served about 200 people at Orchard Park. “Through their involvement, interest continued to grow, and we outgrew the recreation center we were meeting at,” Fish said, “and they rented The Cotillion.” This year’s event took place Nov. 17 at The Cotillion, which is near the church. DJ Ronnie Choy provided music after the meal, and those in attendance continued their celebration on the dance floor. “Eventually we had to pull the plug,” Fish said. “They would have just stayed forever. He did a great job.” Laiketa Brown is Cross Road Church’s Arc team coordinator. “When Cross Road started, one of our members was on the board of the Arc,” she said, “and the Arc had told her that if we wanted to meet in their meeting room on Second See THANKS, Page 16
• Music composed by students at Concordia University in Nebraska was featured in a recital on Nov. 18 in the recital hall of the music center on campus. Students participating in the recital included Molly Goltl of West Wichita. “None of this music has ever been heard before by anyone,” said music instructor of composition David von Kampen. “The student composers create the music, recruit performers, for their works and organize their rehearsals, and many are participating in their own pieces as performers or conducting.” Each piece that will be played has different instrumentation, so numerous musical styles will be performed throughout the recital. Goltl also will perform in the school’s annual winter JazzFest concert at 7 p.m. Dec. 11 in Wellner Hall on campus. Goltl, a sophomore, will play saxophone in the jazz band. • Wesley Healthcare has named Jennifer Krier its new vice president of human resources. A Wesley human resources veteran of 10 years, Krier left for six months for another job opportunity before coming back to Wesley in October. Krier graduated from Wichita State University with a bachelor’s degree in human resources management, and she received a master’s degree in human resources development from
Webster University in Wichita. • Fourteen sophomores at the University of Kansas have been selected as Global Scholars. This competitive program, coordinated by Stuart Day, director of faculty programs for international programs, recognizes and encourages undergraduate students who have an interest in global studies and a strong academic record. The students come from a wide range of disciplines across the university. They were selected for their demonstrated interest in global and international studies, plans for studying abroad and potential for high academic achievement and leadership. The group will participate in a three-hour weekly seminar, “From the Social to the Global: Seeing the World through Flamenco and Latin Popular Dance,” taught by professor Michelle Heffner Hayes. Students will be paired with a faculty mentor with similar interests and present research on global and international studies during the spring semester of their senior year. Each will receive a $1,000 scholarship to be applied toward a KU-approved study abroad program. The students included Kellor Yde, a graduate of Maize High School majoring in political science and global and international studies. His parents are Timothy Yde and Cindy Yde.
5 - December 2015
WestSide Story People and Places
Construction training offered for Construction Education and Research core curriculum, which includes instruction in power tools, hand tools, construction math, materials handling and construction drawings. The program also provides physical fitness training and life management skills. The first session runs Jan. 25 to March 10. Information sessions will be held on Jan. 11 at 2 p.m. and Jan. 13 at 10 a.m. Graduation will be March 10. The program is free. To register, call 316-263-9620.
WestSide Story
KANSEL is offering a construction job training program starting in January. KANSEL, a non-profit organization providing adult education in the Wichita area, works with the Kansas Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration to provide a seven- week construction training program several times a year. The program is for adults age 18 or older. Minorities and women are encouraged to participate. The program teaches basic skills in construction using the National Center
December 2015 - 6
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7 - December 2015
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December 2015 - 8
Final thoughts on ‘Citizen Kane’ Sam Koehn Mortgage Loan Officer 316-945-9600
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Well, I think it’s time to put a deadline on “Citizen Kane.” You wouldn’t believe how much I’m passing over. For example, the book that lies on Kane’s mother’s table exactly square with the table edge, compared to the sloppiness of Kane’s scribblings, implies some of the differences between the two, whether they loved each other or not (maybe part of their trouble was they both had a little Mr. Kane in them after all). And I have said almost nothing about the dialogue. Writer-director Orson Welles was basically a radio man, remember, and he appreciated what words can do. But if go at this present rate, we’ll finish with Part 15. Anyway, if I get such a kick out of this kind of thing, why not leave some of it for you to play with on your own? You must have noticed that it takes no particular knowledge. Have fun with it. And one question I’d like an answer to, if you can find it – don’t worry, I and 30-plus years of student couldn’t – why, in a movie so careful with its sets and props and costumes, is child Charles’ snowman such a miserable fake? I grew up in Minnesota and can guarantee you, no snowman was every as spherical as that. Remember the blank page with writing on it that began the Thatcher part of the movie? Well, we return to it at the end as if to accompany us to the five-narrator structure of the move as a whole. Each narrator presents Kane from a particular point of view, as well as regarding a particular aspect of his life. Welles has been criticized for his failure to show Kane using the peak of his power, and Thatcher’s story is as close as we get to showing that, from Thatcher’s disapproving view. But about all we see of it is represented by a series of headlines of newspapers being read by a succession of riders on the interurban train. The movie goes down the central aisle, revealing huge-type frontpage stories about Kane’s triumphs over the slumlords, “copper robbers” and, especially, the Traction Trust Transit Company. But lest we start thinking of Kane as a people’s hero, we have already heard him as thinking “it would be fun run a newspaper,” (an opinion scorned repeatedly by Thatcher) and saying it is his “pleasure” to take on the
Cinema Scene
Jim Erickson
causes of the common man. Still later, his determination to make his second wife an opera star is obviously more an ego trip than an effort to serve her or the world of art. Both his best friend and his second wife say all he wanted was the love of people, which he could never get because he had none to give. It’s as close as we ever get to an explicit statement of theme for the movie, though at the very end the reporter, who is trying to find out who Kane really was, says that is perhaps something we can never know about anybody. That’s what I think the movie’s point is. But Welles is not simple; even the best friend admits there may have been love between Kane and his mother, and there are a number of indications of that, which we’ll get to later. For the moment, Kane’s prosperity is brought down by the crash of 1929, and he removes himself from the newspaper in one of those cold, cavernous rooms that are almost always associated with the powerful. But Welles is never that simple. Consider the Colorado mountains of Kane’s childhood and his Xanadu at the end, a manmade mountain containing in its cellars reminders of all aspects of his life. And Bernstein, the next narrator and Kane’s only lifelong associate, will immediately go on to show us all we will see of Kane at work, and his attitude toward the “decent, hard-working people” he supposedly likes to serve. The fact that Bernstein is the only major character to be alive and functional at the end may be worth contemplation. He is the only major character who never showed any personal ambition and who remained an unquestioning admirer of Kane until the end. See CINEMA, Page 9
“Spotlight” was the name of the Boston Globe’s team of investigative reporters that brought out the Catholic Church’s policy of defending child-molesting priests back in 2003, and “Spotlight” is the title of the new movie about the considerable reporting achievement, and a very good movie it is. I’m no such historian as to testify as to its accuracy, but it is 100 percent convincing. I only wish it were more complete. Because “Spotlight” is so concentrated on the reporters – played by Michael Keaton, Rachel McAdams, Mark Ruffalo and Brian D’Arcy – we see very little of the church officials who covered up for the guilty priests or the civilian officials who helped cover things up. We do meet several of the victims, but only after many years have passed and the cases have gone cold. Nobody represents the rare but not unknown position that child molestation is not in itself as much of a problem as the public reaction to it; about the only defense of the coverups is a few remarks about how much good work even a corrupt church does and how many people need the church in any case. And the characters, while excellently acted and clearly defined, are shown so strictly in terms of their jobs
Movie Review
Jim Erickson
that we are almost unawared of the personal costs they might have to pay for their professional development. And their jobs are limited, convincingly, to endless telephone calls and footwork and reading old files, tracking down even the most unlikely leads among people who are far from in a hurry to revive the unpleasant past, often at considerable risk to themselves. There are no Rambos and James Bonds here; no car chases, shootouts, big orange explosions. This is what real police work, and a lot of other work, is really like – everybody doggedly doing his unglamorous
bit and then consolidating with others to achieve the final goal. “Spotlight” is often compared to “All the President’s Men,” the only other movie I can think of that is so focused on the regularities of investigative work – certainly the only one that was a big hit. And it will remind you how time-consuming and expensive big investigations have to be. Dialogue points out that few private organization can afford efforts like this, and you may find yourself thinking about “Truth,” which made the same point about television programs like “60 Minutes.” And you might be anticipating “Concussion,” about football injuries. There is a lot to be said about the need for organizations that can look in depth at big issues like whether the battle of Tonkin Gulf ever took place and whether the arguments of climate change deniers have any substance. But there is a good edeal of good old-fashioned entertainment in “Spotlight.” Suspense and aggravation are about equal as Keaton, McAdams, Ruffalo and D’Arcy – not to mention lesser characters like Stanley Tucci, Liev Schreiber, John Slattery and Billy Crudup – struggle against odds to bring the public the facts. There’s inspiration, too, in the convincing proposition that we don’t need Edward Snowden and Danial Ellsbergs and Deep Throat from “All the President’s Men,” not to mention Rambos, James Bonds, comic-book superheroes and honest, ordinary people who believe in their work and are allowed to do it, to handle a lot of problems in the world. I hope “Spotlight” finds enough audience to make a profit. “Truth” about Dan Rather and “60 Minutes” with a comparable problem, apparently did not. Realist movies like “The Hurt
Locker” and “American Sniper,” with their rather unattractive pictures of certain psychological types we need during war but can’t quite accommodate during peacetime, did well. But there is a risk in making movies like these in a time of special effects and superheroes. I tip my hat to people like writer Josh Singer and writer-director Tom McCarthy and anyone else promoting this kind of serious social-content movies. And I wait nervously to see whether anybody will really dare to take on the business of football in “Concussion.
Cinema Continued from Page 9
Lelan (Joseph Cotten) is in the oldage hospital. Susan (Dorothy Comingore) is the alcholic owner of a rundown night club. Thatcher (George Coulouris) and the rest are dead. But Bernstein (Everrett Sloane) … “Me? I’m chairman of the board. I got noting but time.” He seems to have been totally unaffected by a lifetime of working with Kane, though he’s sitting in an enourmous office under a heroic-size portrait of Kane. I’ve always wonder whether Orson Welles, egomaniac that he was, was trying to make up to the common people with that. Author’s note: Serious study of “Citizen Kane” should start with “The Citizen Kane Book,” with introduction “Raising Kane” by Pauline Kael. But be careful not to confuse the shooting script, pp. 128-306, with the movie as released, pp. 309-446.
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‘Spotlight’ may not be profitable but is worth seeing
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December 2015 - 10
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Dancing for all the right reasons I really enjoy dancing…real dancing, not just moving my feet on a crowded barroom dance floor. I first started taking ballroom dance lessons several years ago, and it has been an on again, off again activity ever since. These days it’s on again, and I hope it stays that way. I say that with all seriousness because of the opportunity I had recently to help cover a fascinating story for our newspaper group. The focus of the story was on Wichitan Ron Hovan, who suffers from Alzheimer’s disease but is showing remarkable improvements through ballroom dancing. Ron was our cover story for the East Wichita News last month, and also was featured in the WestSide Story. Ron lives in a memory care facility in Wichita, and his sister was hoping that dancing – a former passion for her brother – might help him in some way. As fate would have it, she contacted Chie Cline, who also has been my dance instructor for some time. What Chie witnessed as she started working with Ron was nothing short of a miracle. Here’s how she described that miracle: “He said, ‘I don’t remember anything. Not only dancing, but I don’t remember how to drive a car, and a lot of important things that I need to remember to live.’” Chie acknowledged Ron’s hesitance that day, but went ahead and turned on her stereo, cuing up a waltz. Hearing the music, Ron held out his hand. “That was an amazing moment. He started with a couple of basics, then twinkle, pivot, oversway... He started an amazing silver (intermediate level) waltz, with beautiful rise and fall.”
From the Publisher’s Files
Paul Rhodes | Publisher
When Chie told me about the experience and wondered if our newspaper group would be interested in documenting this remarkable transformation, we jumped at the opportunity. On Oct. 22, I handled the photo assignment, and our lead reporter Sam Jack did the interviews and wrote the story. We also helped promote a benefit dance for the Alzheimer’s Association that was held last month. And yes… my girlfriend Kim and I were there, dancing away the evening with fellow students from the studio, supporters from around the community…and special guest Ron Hovan. The event raised nearly $3,500 for Alzheimer’s research, and was a wonderful way to highlight some of the benefits of ballroom dancing…besides being wonderfully fun and a great fitness activity. Studies have shown that ballroom dancing can decrease the risk of developing dementia, so that’s just one more reason for me to keep dancing. No, it didn’t keep Ron Hovan from falling prey to Alzheimer’s, but it is helping him get some slices of his life back again. And that, in and of itself, is pretty remarkable.
Contact publisher Paul Rhodes at prhodes@tsnews.com
11 - December 2015
Christmas in the Country
Family to host public light display When WestSider Greta Semsroth was little, she loved the Christmas display her grandfather put up each year in Cheney, just west of Wichita. Floyd “Shorty” Semsroth – “Poppy” to Greta – built large plywood displays. There were three mechanized elves; one elf sawed toys, one painted them and one hammered them. It was young Greta’s favorite part of the holidays. It’s still a favorite memory today. “When I was a kid, it made Christmas believable,” she said. About a year ago, Semsroth decided she wanted to help create memories like hers for other children. Semsroth convinced her mom and stepfather, Jane and Steve McLaughlin of Cheney, to host a public display. Semsroth and her mom have been collecting and purchasing pieces for the display since last year. There will be close to 100 items in the display, gathered in numerous scenes. There are about 50 plastic pieces, about 20 large inflatables – “substantially large,” according to Semsroth – and more smaller pieces plus lots of lights. They are calling it “Christmas in the Country.” Semsroth wants it to be a tradition. She said the memories of Christmas are what she treasures the most. McLaughlin said her daughter has always loved Christmas. She said Semsroth used to dress in an oversized shirt with a black belt and a fake beard made of cottonballs. Family and friends helped to put the display together. Several local churches have offered their help, too.
“I want to thank everybody who has helped and offered to help on a moment’s notice,” Semsroth said. The display is free. Donations will be accepted to benefit the Cheney Emergency Fund. Christmas in the Country will be a drive-through display. Visitors are asked to enter at the west driveway. Signs will be posted. Their display opened to the public Thanksgiving weekend and is now open every weekend through Dec. 26 at 15734 SE 20th Street in eastern Kingman County. That’s 2-1/2 miles straight west of the intersection of Cheney’s Main Street and MacArthur Road. The home is located immediately west of McLaughlin Equipment. A walk-through night will be held on Sunday, Dec. 20, with free hot chocolate, hot cider, sugar cookies, gingerbread cookies and candy canes. To get their, drive west on MacArthur Road to Cheney, or go west on U.S. 54 to the first Cheney exit, then head south through town. At the intersection of Main Street and MacArthur on Cheney’s south edge, go west 2-1/2 miles.
Christmas in the Country Open 5:30-10 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday through Dec. 20
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The Sedgwick County Zoo, Westar Energy and the City of Wichita are teaming up to give away firewood and mulch this winter. The firewood and mulch is provided from Westar Energy’s ReliabiliTree tree trimming program and the City of Wichita’s forestry tree pruning and removal operations. The public can pick up the free firewood and wood chips, to use as mulch, now through February 2016 from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the north parking lot of the Sedgwick County Zoo. The wood is normally delivered between 3:30 and 4:30 p.m. daily. The Sedgwick County Zoo, Westar Energy and the City of Wichita ask that anyone picking up firewood refrain from using chainsaws, splitters or any mechanical equipment. Those with questions about wood delivery may call 1-855-937-8275.
Contact Conway Springs City Hall for more information. 620.456.2345
December 2015 - 12
Iron
Man
WestSider will represent U.S. in world championship triathlon
WestSide Story
STORY
BY
WestSider Dale Bing will represent the United States in the Long Distance Triathlon World Championships, to be held in Oklahoma City next September. Bing has come a long way as a runner since 1998, when his son Eric asked him to run with him in a casual, twomile race. Seventeen years later, he has competed in dozens of races. He completed a full Iron Man race – 140.6 miles of swimming, biking and running – in August 2013, at the age of 61. He qualified for the long distance triathlon world championship on his first try, by placing eighth in his age group in the national championship race this September.
SAM JACK And he’s still working hard, hoping to push himself even further. “I’ve done 15 races this year,” said Bing. “Mentally, it beats you up, because I race to win. You have to go there and take the pain. When you race hard, there’s a lot of pain involved, whether it’s a 5K or a full Iron Man. Right now I’m probably only running 20 to 25 miles a week, swimming three times a week and biking two or three times. Probably equivalent to 50 or 60 miles of biking and three-and-a-half miles of swimming a week.” Those numbers will go up as Bing ramps up for his next race, he said.
When Bing competed in that first, two-mile race he did not plan to go on abd become an ultra-endurance athlete. “I didn’t do my first 10K until like 2009,” said Bing. “When Eric got me into the two-mile run, I thought that people who were doing 10Ks were out of their minds. Six miles, how can you possibly do that? But then I kept running two miles and ended up placing in that race, and I thought, ‘Hmm, I’m not so bad at this.’ So I just kept rolling.” A half-marathon fell on Bing’s birthday, so he decided to do it as a one-time challenge. “I ran that and placed in my age group,” he said. “That was pretty cool. I said, ‘I’ll never run that far again.’”
But soon enough, Bing was in training for a full marathon sponsored by his former employer, Fidelity Bank. The route of his training runs happened to go past the home of Alan Farrington, a member of the Kansas River Valley Triathlon Club. Farrington invited Bing to join the club. From there, Bing became a triathlete. Bing has a natural talent for running, but the swimming and bicycling legs of the triathlon are more of a stretch. “I’m not a very good swimmer; I just swim,” he said. “I don’t try to swim hard, because it won’t get me that much more speed anyway. The swim is to get through it and get on the bike. And the bike, I go by the way my legs feel ... You don’t want to burn your legs out,
not going to do that anymore.’ The difference is that they stay within their comfort zones, and I didn’t. I’m still going outside my comfort zone. The worlds (World Championship) will be the longest swim I’ve ever done, but I’ll be ready for it by then.” Bing does not have any plans to stop competing. The International Triathlon Union has age groups all the way up to 85+. For more information on Bing’s group, the Kansas River Valley Triathlon Club, visit ksrvtc.com.
Remember God’s Love for us all at this special time of year
13 - December 2015
because you’ve got a long run ahead of you. You don’t want to go all out on the bike; you want to save some for the run.” Bicycling and running, though both leg-powered, require different techniques and engage different musculature. “Starting out, I went and looked at bikes with my buddy Alan (Farrington), and ended up buying one,” said Bing. “I sat on that thing for ten miles and wanted off of it. ... It sounds weird, but it takes thousands of miles to get that efficient pedal stroke. “You notice when the (triathletes) start in running, they look very strange, bobbling back and forth, taking little baby steps to get their legs to wake up and get ready for the run. It’s difficult, painful,” Bing continued. Now retired from Fidelity Bank, Bing is very plugged into Wichita’s running scene. He works part time at Old Town’s First Gear Running Company, helping everyone from beginners to other triathletes choose shoes and gear. “Most people that get into running want to stay in it,” he said. “I don’t usually hear, ‘Well, I tried it, and I’m
7355 West Taft · Wichita 316-721-1228 125 Andale Rd. · Andale 316-444-2125 30010 W. Harry · Garden Plain 316-531-2295
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Triathlon is an endurance competition that includes running, bicycling and swimming. Dale Bing started running seriously several years ago and added the other two disciplines after getting involved with the Kansas River Valley Triathlon Club. He qualified for the Long Distance Triathlon World Championships on his first try.
December 2015 - 14 WestSide Story
Send your letters to Santa The City of Wichita, Starkey, Inc. and Cambridge Market are once again teaming up to spread holiday cheer through the Letters to Santa project, with new incentives for classrooms to participate. Through Dec. 11, children in Wichita and the surrounding area ages 12 and under are invited to drop off their letters to Santa Claus at one of six locations. Every child who participates will receive a reply from Santa himself and be entered into prize drawings. To receive a reply, the letter must include the child’s age, phone number or e-mail, and a return address; return postage is not necessary. The two grand prizes are: • A guest appearance on KAKE News at 11 a.m. with Jemelle Holopirek to read his or her letter on live TV; and, • A ride on a Wichita Fire Department fire truck. Other individual prizes
Letter drop-off locations: • CityArts, 334 N. Mead. • Cowtown, 1865 W. Museum Blvd. • Mid-America All-Indian Center, 650 N. Seneca. • Century II Performing Arts and Convention Center (Concert Hall entrance), 225 E. Douglas. • Cambridge Market, 9747 East 21st Street N. • Starkey, Inc., 4500 W. Maple. include family memberships to Cowtown and the Indian Center, a youth art class at CityArts, gift certificate for four to attend an upcoming performance at Century II and $50 in Cambridge Bucks that can be spent at any store in Cambridge Market. New this year are the addition of classroom prizes including pizza parties for two classrooms courtesy of Little Caesars and Pizza Hut; and field trips for three classrooms to CityArts, Cowtown and the Indian Center (transportation is not provided). Teachers may deliver their students’ letters at any drop-off location in a large envelope with their school’s name on the outside. The individual letters should include the child’s age, phone number and/or e-mail so they can be eligible for individual prizes as well. Santa’s responses will be sent to the students via the schools’ addresses. Class letters are due by Dec. 4 with the drawing scheduled for Dec. 7 to allow enough time for the pizza parties to take place before winter break. For more information, e-mail Angela Cato, marketing director, City of Wichita Division of Arts & Cultural Services, at acato@wichita.gov or call 316-303-8639.
• Through Dec. 31, Illuminations, 5:30-8:30 p.m. nightly at Botanica Wichita (closed Christmas Eve and Christmas). Tickets $8 adults and $6 children. Tickets at the door, online at www.botanica.org or at Wichita area QuikTrip locations. Tour themed gardens, hear live music and visit Santa in his cottage. • Through Jan. 2, Gifts in the Gallery, at CityArts in the Main Gallery. This boutique-style art show invites shoppers to pick out their favorite handcrafted art pieces and take them home for themselves or as holiday gifts. Items include paintings, jewelry, pottery and more made by more than 60 local and regional artists. Admission is free. For more information call 316-350-3245. • Through Jan. 3, Kansas Watercolor Society National Exhibition, Wichita Center for the Arts, 9112 E. Central. Gallery open 1-5 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, free admission. Visit wcfta.com or call 316-634-2787 for more information.
• Dec. 4-5, 11-12, 18-19, free horsedrawn carriage ridges, Bradley Fair Plaza, 21st and Rock Road. Rides available 6-10 p.m. • Dec. 5, “Indians in Aviation,” a special screening in commemoration of Pearl Harbor Day. Events run 1-3 p.m.
Dateline
Upcoming events in and around Wichita
at the Mid-America All-Indian Center. Q&A with filmmaker Douglas Robertson follows the film. Event is free and museum admission is free to veterans. “Indians in Aviation” tells the stories of American Indian families that moved to the Wichita area during World War II to help build airplanes for the war effort. The migration helped develop Wichita’s Indian community and led to the creation of the Indian Center. For more information call 316-350-3340 or visit www.indiancenter.org. • Dec. 11-12, Living nativity, Madison Avenue United Methodist Church, 900 E. Madison Ave., Derby. 6:30-8 p.m. both nights. Drive-through, free admission. Live animals. Donations will benefit missions and ministries. Dec. 26-27, “Rock the Dome,” Pink Floyd cosmic light shows at Exploration Place. www.exploration.org. Blood donation opportunities: • Dec. 3, Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, 430 N. Broadway, 1-5 p.m. • Dec. 4, Wesley Medical Center, 550 N. Hillside, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. • Dec. 4, Bostic Elementary School, 8103 E. Gilbert, 3-6 p.m. • Dec. 6, East Point Church of Christ, 747 N. 127th St. East, 8:3011:30 a.m. • Dec. 6, Dillons, 3211 S. Seneca, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. • Dec. 6, Blessed Sacrament Church, 3801 E. Douglass, 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. The Wichita Blood Donation Center, 707 N. Main, is open Monday-Saturday. Visit redcrossblood.org to learn more about hosting a blood drive. To make an appointment to donate blood, download the free Red Cross Blood Donor app from app stores, visit www. redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
West Heights United Methodist Church GINGERBREAD HOUSE NIGHT
Thursday, December 10 · 6-7:30 p.m. · Family Life Center Bring the whole family to decorate gingerbread houses. Take your creation and leave the mess!
Call 722-3805 by December 8 to make reservations! $3 per House
Advent Services 8:15 & 10:30 a.m. Sermon Series “Touched by Angels”
CAROLS AND CHOIRS
PRAIRIE BLUEGRASS CHRISTMAS
Celebrate with our children, adult and bell choirs as we experience the story of Christmas in scripture and song.
Bluegrass sounds by Richard & Karen Crowson, Dennis Hardin and Friends!
Sunday, December 13 10:30 a.m. · Sanctuary
Sunday, December 20 10:30 a.m. · Sanctuary Suggested Donation $5
CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICES
Touched by Angels: Angels in the Outfield 5:30 p.m. Contemporary, Family Service Children’s Choir · Nursery Provided
7:30 p.m. Family Candlelight Service with Holy Communion Nursery Provided
11 p.m. Traditional Candlelight Service with Holy Communion
Sunday, December 27 ONE SERVICE ONLY 10:30 a.m.
745 N. Westlink
North of Central between Tyler Rd. and Maize Rd.
316-722-3805 · www.westheightsumc.org Check us out on Facebook!
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• Through Jan. 5, “Design Zone,” traveling exhibit at Exploration Place. Find out how architects, engineers, video game developers, music producers, roller coaster designers and more use math and science to create their crafts. www.exploration.org.
15 - December 2015
• Through Dec. 24, The Arc’s Lights (formerly known as the Lights on St. Paul), fundraiser to support The Arc of Sedgwick County. Drive-through light display open nightly (weather permitting) through Christmas Eve. Hours are 5:30-9 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, 5:30-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and until 11:30 p.m. Christmas Eve. A $5 donation per car is requested. The display includes 1.4 million lights and more than 200 displays. Enter at the intersection of Douglas and St. Paul. Pictures with Santa are available on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays and Dec. 21-23 (not on Christmas Eve).
December 2015 - 16
KWLS 107.9 Real American Country “Thanks to our listeners...The fastest growing radio station in South Central Kansas” Tune in and hear ALL the great reasons why!
Elly Kitchen, left, and her friend Abby Scholfield were among the many people at The Thankful Feast. Roughly 220 volunteers from Cross Roads Church helped make the event happen.
Larry Steckline, the voice of Kansas agriculture: Tune-in Monday thru Friday to hear the Steckline Report.
Big D and Bubba Show,
National On-Air Personality of the year, 2014 CMA Award Winners and 2015 ACM Award Winners: Tune-in in the mornings.
Todd Taylor: Join Todd on
Saturday’s to listen to your favorite Red Dirt Country!
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Rockin’ Rick, #1 Local Radio Personality: Join him for the “Rockin Ride Home” and KSN News. Gentle Ben, Long time local legendary
radio personality: Tune-in in the evenings to listen to your favorite “Classic Country”!
K-State Wildcats: Listen to the 2015-2016 Football and Basketball Broadcast on the only FM Station in South Central Kansas!
Thanks Continued from Page 4
Street, we could do that. … That was our first meeting place, and then we’ve just had a relationship with them ever since.” Brown said approximately 220 volunteers from the church helped with The Thankful Feast. Some were on site to set up and serve food. “If they weren’t able to be there, they helped by donating food items,” she added. The turkey or ham that was served came from Air Capital Catering. Church volunteers prepared all the side dishes, and the church donated pies. “We have a group of ladies that’s on the team, and some helpers, that cook everything else,” Brown said. “They cook it at the church, and then we have wonderful men volunteers that load everything up, and they bring it over right before we serve. And it’s in roasters and different containers that keep it hot, so there’s no time for it to get cold.” An Arc volunteer provided table decorations, and church volunteers supplied tablecloths and then seated people as they entered the building. Fish said
it was obvious to Arc clients and staff members that the church had a quality system in place. “They just brought out waves and waves of food,” he recalled. “It was amazing. Within 10 minutes, everyone who was there had food. It was a well-oiled machine. It was impressive to watch.” A picture station was set up for those in attendance to get a photo taken with their friends. And, of course, the dance traditionally follows the meal. Fish said the event is one that those involved with Arc look forward to all year. “It’s a big thing we get on the calendar early every year,” he said. “We’ve been excited to see the enthusiasm and growth with many of our folks that may not have opportunities to do many other activities or events. They all get it on their calendar early. To have 800 people sign up for an event is just outstanding. To see well over 1,000 people come together is always a wonderful thing to see.” According to Brown, members of Cross Road Church also anticipate The Thankful Feast. “I can honestly say they do,” she continued. “They ask me, ‘Are we doing it again this year?’ and ‘When is it?’ and ‘It’s one of my favorite things to do – The Thankful Feast.’ They love that.”
December 2015 • Through Dec. 13, “A Christmas Story,” Wichita Community Theatre. Shows: 8 p.m. Dec. 2-5, 7 p.m. Dec. 6, 8 p.m. Dec. 9-12, and 2 p.m. Dec. 13. Tickets $14, $12 for students, military and seniors 60 and older. Call 316-686-1282.
316-667-2429 www.mounthopedental.com
• Dec. 4-5 and Dec. 18-19, “The Runaway Snowman,” performed at Wichita Children’s Theatre and Dance Center, 201 Lulu. The show is recommended for youth 2-8 and for families. Showtimes: 6:30 p.m. Dec. 4, 12 p.m. Dec. 5, 6:30 p.m. Dec. 18, 12 p.m. Dec. 19. Pizza served 30 minutes before. Weekday school performances Dec. 2-4. For tickets, call the Wichita Children’s Theatre and Dance Center, 316-262-2282. • Dec. 8-13, “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever,” performed at the Irene Vickers Baker Theatre, The Wichita Center for the Arts, 9112 E. Central. Showtimes: 6:30 p.m. Dec. 11, 1 and 3 p.m. Dec. 12, 2 p.m. Dec. 13. Weekday school performances are Dec. 8-11. For tickets, call the Wichita Children’s Theatre and Dance Center, 316-262-2282. • Dec. 11-13, “A Christmas Story, The Musical,” Music Theatre for Young People, Century II’s Mary Jane Teall Theater. Shows: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 11-12, 2:30 p.m. Dec. 13. Tickets $12 in advance, $15 at the door, $10 students. Call 316-3038100 or www.wichitaTIX.com. More information at www.mtypks.org. • Dec. 12-13, “The Nutcracker,” Ballet Wichita, Century II Concert Hall. The show features guest dancers from Dance Theatre of Harlem and a cast of more than 140 Ballet Wichita company dancers. Shows at 7 p.m. Dec. 12 and 2 p.m. Dec. 14. Tickets $12.50 to $40 at the Century II box office or www.wichitatix. com. There will be a Dec. 6 performance at the C.L. Hoover Opera House in Junction City.
WestSide Story
Wichita Community Theatre’s next production is a fundraiser to improve lighting. The original script, “Goldie’s Bar,” runs Dec. 16-20. The original script was written by Mary Lou Phipps-Winfrey, a local actor, director and playwright. “I wrote ‘Goldie’s Bar’ to remind myself of all the warm, funny folks I’ve met over the years in small towns. Some are relatives who were delightful characters.” In small towns people often have nicknames such as “Squirrel,” “Sweet Pea,” “Silk Hat” and many more. Phipps-Winfrey added some of the characters she developed when she lived and performed improvisation with Shock of the Funny in New York City. Glenn Williams, a local actor, is co-starring with Mary Lou. All in all, “Goldie’s Bar” is slice of life from a small town tavern in Waverly (where there’s a sign of a hand waving at motorists). There is audience participation. But don’t worry, what happens at Goldie’s stays at Goldie’s. Fundraiser performances are at 8 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, Dec. 16-19, and 7 pm. Sunday, Dec. 20. Tickets for this fundraiser are $30 per person (sales tax included). Beer and wine will be served. You must be 18 to enter and 21 to drink. Call for reservations, 316-686-1282. Wichita Community Theatre is located at 258 N. Fountain.
Performing Arts Calendar
17 - December 2015
Fundraiser part of Wichita Community Theatre’s 70th anniversary
December 2015 - 18 WestSide Story
FOCUS ON BUSINESS
Featured this month Auburn Family Dental................... Page 18
Focus On Business is a monthly feature offered to area advertisers. If you would like your business featured here, please contact our sales office at (316) 540-0500.
Independent Living Resource Center/Autism Avenue.................. Page 19
New dentist in town
Wichita native returns to launch her solo practice There’s no place like home…just ask Dr. Behnaz Raisdana, DDS. Born and reared in Wichita, Dr. Raisdana knew she wanted to be a dentist ever since she was in middle school. Don’t laugh, but she actually liked going to the dentist. “It just feels like I always wanted to be a dentist,” she said, as she reflected on those childhood memories. “I was sitting in my dentist’s office one time and thought, ‘this would be a good job.’ From then on, I knew that’s what I wanted to do.” After graduating from The Independent School, Dr. Raisdana earned her B.S. degree from Wichita State University in chemistry and business. She attended dental school at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, and then did her residency work at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill. With her schooling and training complete, Dr. Raisdana moved to Denver, Colo., where she worked with a general
dentistry practice for the next two and a half years. It was an excellent way to get started in her career, but she also knew there was something important still waiting for her. She wanted to launch her own solo practice back in Wichita. “This was a huge decision for me, but I know it’s the right move at the right time,” said Dr. Raisdana. “I’m ready to build my own practice from the ground up.” Dr. Raisdana is married and her husband is a former employee of the Office of Economic Development in Denver. He is currently working for the Navy in San Diego. “He was very supportive of this move for me, and we’re both excited to make our home here in Wichita,” said Dr. Raisdana. Right now, Dr. Raisdana is focused on getting her new facility completed at the corner of 135th and Maple in West Wichita. The address is 13605 W. Maple, in the same shopping center where
Dr. Behnaz Raisdana, DDS
Kanza Bank is located. “I like the opportunity that I will have on the west side to get a solo practice up and running,” said Dr. Raisdana. “And of course I’m hoping to draw patients from all across Wichita.” The new practice, Auburn Family
Dental, will provide general dentistry services for patients of all ages. Dr. Raisdana has a passion for cosmetic dentistry, and will be sharing that area of expertise with patients, as well. The dental office will be set up to help patients with all types of insurance. The new dental office will be equipped with the latest in dental technology, and Dr. Raisdana’s cheerful and easy-going personality will help new patients feel at ease right from the start. “This is such a great city and I’m so excited to be back in Wichita,” said Dr. Raisdana. “The people here are fantastic, and it will be wonderful to be of service to them.” For more information about Dr. Raisdana and Auburn Family Dental, visit www.auburn-familydental.com, or call 316-201-6323. The new dental office will be open in just a few weeks, and appointments are being scheduled now. Hours for Auburn Family Dental will be Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
3033 W . 2nd St r eet N or t h W ichit a, KS 67203
New flower and gift shop in Delano will break down employment barriers From there, Erbert and supporters at the ILRC believe that launching a business where skills and self-esteem can abound will be a powerful experience – for staff members and shoppers, as well. “This was always my dream,” said Erbert. Autism Avenue will open its doors on Friday, Dec. 18, with a grand opening celebration. Special hours that day will be 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., with lots of giveaways and prizes throughout the day. Single wrapped roses will be presented to the first 50 shoppers. Several drawings will be held at the store. And, a Facebook giveaway also is planned. Autism Avenue is opening at 2514 W.
Douglas Avenue in the Delano District. Through their work experience, staff members will learn social skills that are important for the workplace, and that growth will help participants in the Greater Expectations program excel in other ways, as well. “At Autism Avenue, we will do our part to support the community,” said Erbert. “The power of giving back to the community is an integral part of what we do.” Participants will build confidence, and valued friendships. Business relationships also will be forged with local retailers who might want to take advantage of consignment opportunities.
The shop’s gift items will include an eclectic blend of jewelry, home interior décor and specialty pieces. The flower shop will feature signature arrangements, as well as fresh flowers and regular specials. Autism is a prevalent issue in the U.S., where 500,000 teens with autism will leave school and enter adulthood over the next decade. One of the most critical needs is adequate employment opportunities. For more information on Autism Avenue and opportunities to volunteer or donate through the ILRC, contact marketing director Diane Belden at 316-942-6300 or dbelden@ilrcksorg.
FOCUS ON BUSINESS WestSide Story
When Autism Avenue opens its doors in the Delano District later this month, the goals for the new flower and gift shop will reach well beyond its retail sales targets. In many ways, organizers want the shop to blend in with other retailers in the vibrant Delano business area of midtown Wichita. Simultaneously, though, Autism Avenue will be pushing to make a statement for its workers. “We want this shop to be a model to teach and inspire other businesses how they can benefit from the employment of autistic adults,” said Connie Erbert, who will be managing the new flower and gift shop. The idea for Autism Avenue was born out of Erbert’s work with autistic children, and her desire to start something positive and productive to help autistic adults. That spark lit a fire when Erbert, who had years of experience working with autistic children at Wichita Public Schools, started talking with Cindy Unruh, the executive director of Wichita’s Independent Living Resource Center. “We quickly realized that this was something we wanted to pursue under the umbrella of the Independent Living Resource Center,” said Unruh. As the concept of creating a new program for autistic adults unfolded, the new Greater Expectations program was launched at the ILRC. Through this program, supporters hope to provide the foundation for future independence and successful employment. Erbert believes that through a structured teaching model coupled with real-life work, individuals with disabilities – including autism – can learn to manage their daily routine just like other adults. “We’re a family and community-centered program that involves a change of mindset and behaviors,” said Erbert. “Inclusion and understanding of adults with disabilities is the goal.”
19 - December 2015
Autism at work
December 2015 - 20
Signings LEFT: Miranda Rohleder is pictured with family members at her recent signing. The Goddard High infielder will play softall at Fresno State University. Contributed photo
ABOVE: Flanked by parents John Kridner and Mardie Gardner, Eisenhower High School senior Aspen Kridner signed a letter of commitment to play volleyball at Wichita State next year. Stepfather David Gardner, who is also Aspen Kridner’s high school coach, is pictured at right. Contributed photo RIGHT: Braden Minor is the first Eisenhower athlete to commit to a Division I college. Minor will play baseball at the University of Oklahoma. He is pictured with his parents, Nancy and Paul Minor (seated) and EHS coach Cary Dinkel. Contributed photo
Email signings to news@tsnews.com.
WestSide Story
The WestSide Church Directory
This empty seat…
…is for you and your family
Worship at the Church of Your Choice
Aldersgate United Methodist Church 7901 W. 21st St. N. (west of Ridge Rd.), (316) 722-8504, www.aldersgatechurch. org. Sunday morning services at 8:15 a.m. (traditional), 9:30 a.m. (blended), and 11 a.m. (traditional). Wednesday night activities. Nursery available for all services. Sunday school each week at 8:15 a.m. for adults and at 9:30 a.m. for all age groups. Youth group and youth worship on Sunday evenings. Bible studies, children’s activities, and different fellowship events available throughout the year. Asbury Church – Administrative Offices - 2810 W. 15th St., Wichita (one block north of 13th on St. Paul) (316) 9421491. Two locations across the Wichita Metro Area. Sunday Services: Central Campus – 15th & St. Paul. Traditional Service at 8 a.m., a Praise Service at 9:15 a.m. and a Blended Service at 10:45 a.m. West Campus – 119th & Pawnee. An Upbeat Praise Service suited for the whole family at 10:45 a.m. Visit www.asburychurch.org to learn more about Asbury’s many familycentered ministries. Asbury Counseling Center information can be found at www. AsburyCounselingCenter.com Beacon Community Church - 810 N. Casado, Goddard; 794-2424; 10:45 a.m. Sunday Service; Sunday School at 9:25 a.m.
For HIS Glory Church – 2901 W. Taft St., Wichita • (316) 794-1170 • Worship Sunday 11:00 a.m. • ChurchForHISGlory@gmail.com • Family integrated full Gospel church where all ages worship and study God’s word. Goddard United Methodist Church – 300 N. Cedar, Goddard; (316) 7942207 • 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. Worship • Children’s church during both services • Nursery Available • 10 a.m. Sunday School • Steve Morgan, Pastor • Eric Wilson, Youth Pastor • Children’s Pastor, Kassie Taylor Good Shepherd Episcopal Church – 8021 W. 21st St. N., Wichita; (316) 721-8096; Saturday 5:30 p.m. Spoken Worship; Sunday 8:45 a.m. Contemporary Worship; 11 a.m. Traditional Choral Worship; Church School - Children 9:50 a.m., Adults 10 a.m.; Children’s Chapel 8:45 & 11 a.m. Harvest Community Church – Worship at 8340 W. 21st in Wichita Sunday at 10:30 a.m.; Senior pastor Rev. Dr. Dave Henion; www.wichitaharvest.com. Heritage Baptist Church – Corner of 135th St. & 13th St. N., Wichita; (316) 729-2700; Sunday School 9:45 a.m.; Morning Worship 10:45 a.m.; Evening Worship 6 p.m.; Wednesday Adult Bible
Study/Prayer Time 7 p.m.; Wiseguys 3 yrs.–6th grade 7 p.m.; Nursery provided at all services. “Your neighborhood church just around the corner.” Email: swede132@sbcglobal.net; Website: heritage4u.net. Hope Christian Church – Meeting 10:30 a.m. Sunday mornings, NEW LOCATION - 1330 E. Douglas. Worship is casual and encouraging. Online at www.hope4wichita.org and on Facebook. Pastor Mark McMahon. markm@hope4wichita.org. 316-6480495. West Heights UMC – 745 N. Westlink Ave. (Just north of Central on Westlink); (316) 722-3805, Email: westheights@ westheightsumc.org. Sunday services 8:15 and 10:30 a.m. (Traditional/ Blended); Sunday school 9:15 a.m.; Wednesday meal (during school year) 5:30 p.m. fun classes and study for all ages; nondenominational preschool, host to the Shepherd’s Center of West Wichita providing dynamic activity for the Classic Generation, full children’s programming, and an active youth program challenging today’s generation, website: www.westheightsumc.org. Pathway Church – Westlink Campus, Saturday at 5pm, Sunday at 9:30 & 11am • Café Campus, Sunday at 11am • 2001 N Maize Rd (21st & Maize), Wichita • 316-722-8020 • Goddard Campus, Sunday at 9:30 & 11am • 18800 W Kellogg, Goddard • 316 550 6099 • www. pathwaychurch.com • Following Jesus/ In Community/For Others.
Trinity Reformed Church (RPCNA) – Come glorify and enjoy God with us. 3340 W. Douglas Ave., Wichita, KS 67203 • Sunday worship 9:30 a.m. • Sunday School 11 a.m. • Evening services 5 p.m. • Pastor Adam King • www.trinityrpcna.org • 316-721-2722 Westlink Church of Christ – 10025 W. Central, Wichita; (316) 722-1111; Sunday 9:30 a.m. Bible Classes, 10:30 a.m. Worship, 6 p.m. Devotional; Wednesday 6 p.m. Meal (during school year), 7 p.m. Bible Classes; Gary Richardson, Minister; Nick Miller, Youth Minister; Website: www.westlinkchurch. org. Westwood Presbyterian Church – 8007 W. Maple, Wichita; (316) 722-3753; “Simply making disciples who walk with Jesus, grow to become like Jesus, and live for Jesus by loving others.” Worship Sunday 9 a.m. with Praise Team, 10:30 a.m. with Choir; Fellowship and coffee between worship services; Sunday school for all ages 9 a.m. Nursery open 8:45-11:45 a.m.; www.westwoodpc.org. Rolling Hills Community Church (Church of God, Cleveland, TN) – 8605 W. Maple, Wichita; (316) 722-1251; Sunday Christian Education Classes 9:30 a.m.; Sunday Worship Service 10:30 a.m.; Wednesday Recharge Service 7:00 p.m. Pastor Mark Ingram; www.rhcc.church and Facebook. ‘We love God, love people, and help people love God.’ Come join us.
Welcome to our new Health Each year, the Office of the State “Lt. Kanaga’s efforts resulted in savFireOutlook Marshal joins with the Kansas ing the life of the victim,” said Blacklisting! State Association of Fire Chiefs and well. “His selflessness and compassion
Kansas State Fireportray the image of a We are always new to fighters Association to trying to bring something fresh true and public servant.” our WestStory readers, and the accompanying Health Outlook honor a firefighter for The Tom Mclisting is aabove “new” idea brought over from our East Wichita News heroic actions Gaughey Fire Service andpublication. beyond the call Award recognizes of duty. This year, the exemplary The Health Outlook has been a regular feature in the accomEast agencies bestowed the plishments and acts of Wichita News for several years, and we want heroism to makeby it firefighters a 2015 Tom McGaughey permanent addition to the WestSide Story, as well. Fire Service Award and other persons at Included in this months issue, you’ll find our Regionalincidents Medical in upon Lt. Rob Kanaga fire-related of the Wichita individual Guide, andFire with that publication’s success, weKansas. wantedThe to offer Department. is recognized for their medical outlets a great way to reach out to readers on a monthly Kanaga was nomacts above and beyond basis. This effort also helps readers make a connection with and inated for the award their basic duties medical resources in and around Wichita. by Wichita Fire Chief responsibilities, and for is justfora Kanaga’s start, and the Health Outlook hopefully will growof RonaldThis Blackwell lifesavexemplifying the finest traditions ing to actions a multi-story apartment theour fire area. service. a fullat page of medical listings for building firemore on March 15. TheOutlook, award is named in memory For information about Health contact sales of Kanaga was among the first respond- Wichita Fire Chief Tom McGaughey, representatives Castor orwho Briana Bade ers to arrive at the sceneValorie and comperished in at a fi316-540-0500. re, along with three menced extinguishing the fire in one others (Chief Fire Inspector Merle of two apartments that were ablaze.and regular O. Wells, firefi ghter L. Austin It’s an affordable way toJimmy connect Upon hearing an announcement that an and firefighter Dale J. Mishler) at the readers. occupant remained inside the with adjacentour Yingling Auto Dealership on Nov. 21, apartment, Kanaga entered the apart1968. ment through heat, smoke and reduced Kansas Fire Marshal Doug Jorgensen visibility, located a barely conscious per- presented Kanaga with the award at the son and was able to successfully remove Nov. 17 meeting of the Wichita City the victim to safety. Council.
Game wardens seek assistance in poaching cases
Your directory of wellness services, care providers, and products.
Barney’s Pharmacy & Grocery 3108 W. Central • Wichita Store: 316-945-9490 Pharmacy: 316-945-3388
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Welcome to our new Health Outlook listing! We are always trying to bring something fresh and new to our WestStory readers, and the accompanying Health Outlook listing is a “new” idea brought over from our East Wichita News publication. The Health Outlook has been a regular feature in the East Wichita News for several years, and we want to make it a permanent addition to the WestSide Story, as well. Included in this months issue, you’ll find our Regional Medical Guide, and with that publication’s success, we wanted to offer medical outlets a great way to reach out to readers on a monthly basis. This effort also helps readers make a connection with medical resources in and around Wichita. This is just a start, and the Health Outlook hopefully will grow to a full page of medical listings for our area. For more information about Health Outlook, contact sales representatives Valorie Castor or Briana Bade at 316-540-0500.
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WestSide Story
If you’ve ever seen a photo of a poached deer, chances are you wish you hadn’t. The sad reality is countless numbers of big-game animals are illegally killed in Kansas each year. While Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism game wardens make every effort to solve these cases, lack of evidence often leaves criminals unpunished. The good news is, you don’t have to be a game warden to play a significant role in helping solve a poaching case. Operation Game Thief (OGT), 1-877-426-3843, is a toll-free line available 24/7, 365 days a year, where citizens may anonymously report wildlife-related crimes. Once a call has been placed, the message is relayed to the game warden nearest the violation. If you suspect you are witnessing a wildlife crime, do not confront the suspects. Pay attention to detail so you can provide as much specific information as possible when you call OGT. Information such as vehicle model and color, license tag numbers, descriptions of people involved, location and the time the incident occurred will help game wardens find the poachers.
HEALTH outlook
21 - December 2015
Firefighter’s actions earn award
PT Pl Thera
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December 2015 - 22
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Ha pp y Holid ay s
CLOSED Sunday & Monday Tuesday - Saturday 11 am - 4:00 pm Before & After Hours By Appointment
Happy Holidays
MTYP’s ‘A Christmas Story’ coming to Century II
WestSide Story
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the staff of Audiology & Hearing Aid Services, Inc. Audiology & Hearing Aid Services Inc. 8020 E. Central Ave., Ste. 100 T: 316-634-1100 F: 316-634-2928 10209 W. Central, Ste. 4B Please call our East office for appoitments.
Music Theatre for Young People will stage “A Christmas Story The Musical” Dec. 11-13 at Century II’s Mary Jane Teall Theater. Show times are 7:30 p.m. Dec. 11 and 12, and 2:30 p.m. Dec. 13. Tickets are $12 in advance and $15 at the door, $10 for students. For tickets, call 316-303-8100 or visit www.wichitaTIX.COM. For more information, call 316-262-6897, email mtyp@mytpks.org or visit www. mtypks.org. WestSiders in the production include: Lillian Jerome, Madison Palmer, Lexye Collins, Kelsey Crews, Courtneay Craig, Jackson Mannis, Hannah Soderstrom, Kinsley Scott, Zoey Ellis, Leo Larson and Emma Smith.
Free firewood, mulch available The Sedgwick County Zoo, Westar Energy and the City of Wichita are teaming up to give away firewood and mulch this winter. The firewood and mulch is provided from Westar Energy’s ReliabiliTree tree trimming program and the City of Wichita’s forestry tree pruning and removal operations. The public can pick up the free firewood and wood chips, to use as mulch, now through February 2016 from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the north parking lot of the Sedgwick County Zoo. The wood is normally delivered between 3:30 and 4:30 p.m. daily. The Sedgwick County Zoo, Westar Energy and the City of Wichita ask that anyone picking up firewood refrain from using chainsaws, splitters or any mechanical equipment. Those with questions about wood delivery may call 1-855-937-8275.
FACES WANTED. At the WestSide Story, we’re already working on feature stories for upcoming editions. If you know of someone whose face (and story) should appear on these pages, please let us know! news@tsnews.com | 316-540-0500 www.facebook.com/TheWestSideStory
Wichita Homes
Philip Holmes | Interior Designer
home office looking like a real office. This usually comes down to organization. The lesson here is to have proper storage (and plenty of it) for all of your stuff. Even though we are living in the digital age, paper tends to accumulate over time. You need to have enough storage for now and later. Lighting will be a key component of a productive home office space. Natural light is ideal as long as you can control the glare. Well-placed general and task lighting is essential. Soft and controlled lighting should be the goal. And, please, no cool fluorescent bulbs. The colors you use are really a matter of personal preference. Some design experts suggest neutral colors are best for productivity, the premise being that these colors do not distract. Other experts recommend using certain colors to boost productivity. Both red and yellow are energetic colors, but should only be used as accent colors. The point is that all experts agree about the psychology of color. How you use color in your home office is an individual matter. The same could be said for the style of your home office. Your office should command productivity, so you don’t want to clutter it up with a lot of personal items. On the other hand, a few pictures or mementos will add a little soul to your workspace. Regardless of how you decide to set up your home office, it should be a place that is comfortable and that you enjoy. By setting up your office to be a productive place, you hopefully will be able to eliminate frustrations and distractions that simply don’t need to exist. In turn, you will have improved your own job satisfaction index.
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WestSide Story
In setting up a home office, there are many things to consider. For the purpose of this article, it is assumed that you have worked through the “is this right for me?” aspects of having an office at home and are ready to get right to the meat and potatoes of how to make it happen. How you furnish your office will differ depending on if you are actually running your business at home or if just need a space to keep your household organized. The underlying design principles, however will be the same. In the real estate business, it’s “location, location, location.” The same is true when staking out real estate for your home office. This may be dictated by available space. Ideally, the decision will be based on how you will be using your office. Evaluate your prospective office space in terms of your need for privacy, access for clients and co-workers, or other use-specific criteria. Once you have identified your territory, it’s time to consider your budget. Decide what items are your biggest priority. Besides the furnishings and equipment, there may be a need to get the room itself “office ready.” Compared to other rooms in the home, offices have unique needs in terms of electrical and lighting. Be realistic about your expected costs but do not take short cuts on the items that will make your office perform at maximum efficiency. Be sure that your homeowner’s insurance covers these additional assets and improvements. When evaluating your potential home office equipment, get the best that you can afford and that is appropriate for your actual needs. You may not need the mega-huge office printer but you should select items that will allow you to be as efficient as possible. If you are going to spend a good part of your time at a desk, don’t skimp on the right desk and chair. If you are not comfortable, your productivity tends to suffer. Also, look into ways to organize and hide your cords. A little planning upfront will save a lot of frustration later. One major challenge is keeping the
Painting & Remodeling
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The home office: Designing space for your individual needs
December 2015 - 24
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WestSide Story
501 Easy Street Goddard 316-794-8635
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the Staff and Residents!