‘I was gasping for breath’: Covid-19 survivor
By Bob Rives
“Where do you think you got it?”
Friends ask me that about the Covid-19 that felled me for much of this spring. The answer, unfortunately, is I have no idea. There are guesses....
Film captured Wichita’s first gay pride parade 30 years ago
Click the DVD cover below to watch the documentary on YouTube.
By Amy Geiszler-Jones
Thirty years ago this month, Gregory Boyd filmed history in the making by documenting the genesis of Wichita’s first gay pride parade....
Hot on the trails
If there’s a silver lining to these last few months, it may be this: People are discovering an outdoors they’ve previously experienced mostly through car windows.
The greater Wichita area boasts numerous scenic paths for...
Cause of deadly nursing home clusters difficult to pinpoint
By Mary Clarkin
Roz Hutchinson believes her mother receives excellent care at Chisholm Place, a memory care home on Webb Road in Wichita. Seven deaths among residents from COVID-19 haven’t shaken that opinion.
“I believe that...
Senior Expo discontinued after 33 years
The Active Age
The Senior Expo is apparently no more. The Central Plains Area Agency on Aging, which hosted the long-running event each fall, notified sponsors last month that it would no longer be involved....
Latest challenge for the Greatest Generation
By Harry Clements
I am part of what’s popularly known as the Greatest Generation, which survived both the Great Depression and World War II, two decidedly challenging eras in American history. We are now experiencing...
Newton woman puts extra time to tasty use
By Joe Stumpe
A Newton woman expanded her culinary horizons during the coronavirus pandemic. Is it any wonder that someone whose last name is Kitchen-McKinney enjoys cooking?
Speaking of names, she goes by Kevin, her middle...
Swing back to the ‘60s with this quiz
By Nancy Wheeler
The 1960’s brought tremendous improvements to Wichita, including a new zoo, library and Art Association building. Take this quiz to see what else you remember about Wichita during the Swinging 60s.
1. The...
Soaring spirit
When aircraft from McConnell Air Force Base soared overhead last month in a tribute to those fighting the coronavirus, Roberta Seiwert Lampe couldn’t help feeling thankful.
Thankful for medical personnel, first responders and others on...
Sedgwick County gets $100 million for coronavirus fight
The Acrive Age
Sedgwick County Commissioners are dealing with an interesting problem: how to spend nearly $100 million given to the county by the federal government to battle the coronavirus pandemic.
At least some of the...
My two cents’ worth on the county’s millions
By Joe Stumpe
Last July, Sedgwick County manager Tom Stolz promised a review of the Department on Aging and its funding. Stolz has kept his word, enlisting help from the Public Policy and Management Center...
The Active Age seeks nominations for Thrive Awards
The Active Age plans to celebrate 25 people this summer for their achievements and contributions to our community. We’re asking you to help us narrow down the field by submitting nominations.
Called the Thrive Awards,...
Volunteers deliver help as residents abide restrictions
By Joe Stumpe and Leslie Chaffin
Normally this time of year, Jim Unruh would be puttering around the house, traveling with his wife or working part-time for a funeral home.
“Just a very relaxing lifestyle,” he...
Pandemic effects will linger, health expert predicts
By Joe Stumpe
The lifting of stay-at-home orders caused by the coronavirus — whenever that happens — won’t signal that things are back to normal, a health expert says.
“The world’s going to look different even...
A good fit
You walk, bike, stretch, garden.
Lift weights, swim, do yoga and water aerobics.
Team up with neighbors, friends and spouses. Turn for help to physical trainers and therapists.
Age is no barrier, and you’re not letting the...
Spring showstoppers
Yes, everything got cancelled last month. But as if on cue, nature put on an even more spectacular spring show than usual.
Redbuds and tulips exploded. Whole fields looked like they’d been painted violet by...
Delano’s past was as lively as its present
By Keith Wondra
Editor’s note: An expanded version of this history can be found at the end of this article.
The 2015 Historic Delano Visitor’s Guide painted a colorful picture of the area’s early days: “Springing...
Extra innings
By Kollen Long
It’s obvious where Bob Lutz stands on the pressing issue of American cheese on crackers. Clearly against it, as evidenced by a debate on his daily radio show with his son and...
The Active Age seeks nominations for Thrive Awards
The Active Age plans to celebrate 25 people this summer for their achievements and contributions to our community. We’re asking you to help us narrow down the field by submitting nominations.
Called the Thrive Awards,...
1971 a busy time for young wife, mom and part-time secretary
By Diana Breit Wolfe
Hmm…what was I doing when I was 28 years old? That’s what came to mind as I wrote to one of my one of my great-nieces on her 28th birthday. I...
If you liked Ike, you’ll love this ’50s quiz
By Nancy Wheeler
How much do you remember about life in Wichita during the 1950’s? Remember eating at Wolf’s Cafeteria, seeing performances at the Wichita Forum and attending sock hops?
Try your hand at these questions,...
But seriously, folks: A little laughter is good for us
By Ted Blankenship
I have been fascinated by humor as long as I can remember. Maybe it was compensation for being a fat kid. How could I feel inadequate if I came up with fat...
‘Unfollow’ follows story of controversial Phelps family
"Unfollow: A Memoir of Loving and Leaving the Westboro Baptist Church,” by Megan Phelps-Roper (Farrar, Straus & Giroux, 2019, 286 pages, $27.00)
By Ted Ayres
In this time of global calamity and concern, I feel compelled to...
Make the old new again in this year’s garden
By Janice Sroufe
Spring has never been quite like this. Many of us have spent weeks at home, trying to make do with what we have and distancing ourselves from other people. I’ve been trying...
Father Time
By Joe Stumpe
Jazz formed the soundtrack of Bob Scheid’s childhood in pre-World War II south Chicago, a swinging big-band beat that some think has never been equaled....
Minor Miracle
By Bob Rives
When Wichita’s first real baseball stadium opened in 1905, it cost $1,500 and was painted green, like most of its kind. In...
Coronavirus shakes region
Karen VanDam celebrating her 80th birthday before the Kansas Masonic Home was placed on lockdown because of the cornonavirus threat.
By Joe Stumpe
As a...
‘Restricted access’ can’t stop wedding bells
By Susan Hill
Editor’s note: Susan Hill, a member of the active age board of directors, lives at Larksfield Place, one of many area senior communities affected by the...
The Active Age seeks nominations for Thrive Awards
The Active Age plans to celebrate 25 people this summer for their achievements and contributions to our community. We’re asking you to help us narrow down the field by submitting nominations.
One of a kind: Vern Miller did things his own way
By Celisa Calacal and Matthew Long-Middleton
Kansas News Service
Kansas’ 36th attorney general was infamous for popping out of trunks, inciting gunfights on buses, and going...
Cooking: A long love story
By Pat Gallagher
I have enjoyed cooking and reading for most of my life. I don’t cook as much anymore but I have broadened my reading interest to include...
Superintendent spreads joy in person and social media
By Kollen Long
At 8:15 on a chilly morning two days before Thanksgiving, Janet Eaton, the superintendent of Catholic schools for the Diocese of Wichita, held the door and...
Win wine and chocolate by solving the retirement puzzle
RETIREMENT PUZZLE CONTEST
Retirement gives us more time to do the things we enjoy – like solve puzzles, eat chocolate and drink wine! We’re giving away a...
Vertical gardening a good way to maximize space
By Janice Sroufe
City-dwelling gardeners like me often have limited space to grow all of the wonderful fruits and vegetables they would like. Over the years, I have experimented...
New Wichita Carriage Works in the works at Old Cowtown
Old Cowtown Museum wants to recreate one of Wichita’s early business buildings to store and display its “rolling stock” of wagons, buggies and buckboards.
The museum currently uses a...
“Maker community” growing into new space
By Leslie Chaffin
The Wichita area has always taken pride in its skilled workers, and an organization called MakeICT shows that talent isn’t limited to employees performing their regular...
Artist ‘feels like a child in a candy store’
The active age
Give Anthony Dozier a box of old decals or expired gift cards and you might get a work of art back in return.
Take our fitness survey for chance to win books
What’s your favorite way to stay fit? Is it a nightly walk around the neighborhood, a Silver Sneakers class at your local YMCA, a regular round of golf? Or is it a...
First abortion, then coronavirus hinder Medicaid expansion push
Jim McLean
Kansas News Service
TOPEKA — A bipartisan plan to expand Medicaid coverage in Kansas may go nowhere if the threat of coronavirus shortens the 2020...
Win iconic prints in history contest
Eighteen sites have been designated as historic by a committee helping plan the city’s 150th birthday, which takes place in November.
How much do you know about Wichita’s history?...
Keeping the faith
For years, a good-natured religious controversy has simmered in Wichita: Which church is the city’s oldest, First Presbyterian or St. John’s Episcopal?
“The holy war,” as Gary Huffman, archivist...
‘Get started and don’t stop’
By Amy Geiszler-Jones
Nancy O’Donnell and Beryl Krueger like dancing to the beat of a Middle Eastern drum.
“It helps me keep fit and maintain a...
Medicaid push hits roadblock
By Stephen Koranda
Kansas News Service
TOPEKA — The Kansas legislative session began with what seemed like a done deal for expanding...
Neighborhood history to be recorded
Got a great story from one of Wichita’s early neighborhoods? The Old Wichita Neighborhoods Interview Project would like to hear from you.
Patrick O’Connor, an author and contributor to...
Man making most of ‘second chance’
By Dave Gear
EL DORADO – Dale’s back.
More than 10 years ago, Dale Wilson’s family bought him a YMCA membership following his recovery from a...
Pro tips for pork loin
By Joe Stumpe
Pork loin packs plenty of promise, from great flavor and low price to nutritional makeup and ease of preparation. However, it suffers from a tendency to...
Bag a bunch of books
The Friends of the Wichita Public Library will hold a book “bag sale” Saturday, March 28 at the Advanced Learning Library, 711 W. 2nd St. The members-only sale is from 8-10 a.m.,...
El Dorado artist chalked Jayhawk
By Joe Stumpe
When the University of Kansas basketball team returns to the NCAA tournament this month, some attention will naturally fall on its iconic mascot, the Jayhawk. And...
Our Duty evokes life in wartime Kansas
Our Duty by Gerri Hilger (Kat Biggie Press, 2018, 301 pages, $15.99)
By Ted Ayres
Gerri Hilger is a life long resident of Kansas who lives in...
Meatless Mexican
Fed up with fish on Fridays during Lent? Our Lady of Perpetual Catholic Church N. 2351 N. Market in Wichita, will hold its annual meatless Mexican food dinners each Friday 5-7 p.m....
Rolling with it
By Amy Geiszler-Jones
Casey and Larry Furnish often refer to the first 32 years of their 38-year marriage as “BS” – short for before stroke.
Late...
Medicaid expansion, senior funds on agenda in Topeka
the active age
TOPEKA —Expanding Medicaid coverage is just one of several issues before the 2020 Kansas Legislature that could affect seniors for years to come.
From the big leagues to McAdams Park, big Bob Thurman belonged
By Bob Rives
Bob Thurman’s name may not be as well known as those on other signs in McAdams Park. After all, playing fields there have been named for...
Wings hot again
New team playing at Hartman while documentary tells story of city’s first professional soccer team
the active age
There are a lot of folks winging it...
Say Bonjour to ‘Mister Crunch’
By Joe Stumpe
Each day, Americans eat almost as many sandwiches as there are people in the country. You can look it up.
Impressive as that...
Active Age Day at Koch Arena: Readers cheer win by Shocker women over Temple
"Go Get It Girls"Lilaha Bolen, Charlotte Harmon and Nancy SeibertVicki Forbes and Dana EdwardsPat WierengaDonna Adams-ZimmermanKaysue HallWanda Groves and FriendRoz and Tom HutchinsonRichard and Sue GoatesResidents of Via Christi Village Wichita State...
AARP members, WSU to weigh in on Sedgwick County budget
By Joe Stumpe
Sedgwick County commissioners likely will hear from more folks this year calling for additional funding of senior-related services.
A group made up of...
Whitewater museum captures past
By Nancy Carver Singleton
WHITEWATER – The Whitewater Photo Museum offers a glimpse into this town’s past, and not just through a camera lens.
Here’s a...
Newton choir is golden
the active age
NEWTON —After the busiest holiday season in their history, members of the Golden Notes choral group have no intention of slowing down. The Golden Notes performed...
Census Bureau taking applications for 2020 jobs
The Census Bureau is recruiting hundreds of thousands of temporary workers for the 2020 Census. This is not only a chance to earn extra income, it’s also an opportunity help our community...
20 in ‘20: a little activity each day adds up
As a health professional, Jane Byrnes says she can’t help but notice the decline of people who don’t stay active, even with simple walks.
“They want answers and pills...
Don’t travel cancer survivorship journey alone
A 25-year cancer survivor and research instructor at the University of Kansas School of Medicine – Wichita has developed a free webinar to help people diagnosed with cancer work toward wellness.
Shockers to host active age readers at Koch Arena
You’re invited to attend a Wichita State University women’s basketball game as guests of the Shockers and the active age.
The Jan. 19 game at Koch Arena pits WSU against...
Should it stay or should it go?
Century II too iconic to lose, supporters say
By Celeste Bogart Racette
Wichitans have always supported and loved Century II. They have memories of special...
Expanding Medicaid in Kansas tops 2020 priorities for AARP
By Mary Tritsch
AARP Kansas believes that expanding Medicaid (KanCare) is the most critical thing lawmakers can do for older Kansans when they convene in Topeka on Jan. 14....
Kiddieland amusement park lives on in memories
By Debbi Elmore
Once upon a time in south Wichita, there existed not one – but two – fantasy lands for children. Joyland, on south Hillside, was designed for...
Waffle wizardry latest trick for adventurous cook
By Joe Stumpe
A family member was going through Nancy McMaster’s refrigerator over the holidays when she came across a jar of sourdough bread starter, all bubbly and yeasty...
Ref keeps order for love of game
By Kollen Long
If a referee notices you on the football field, it’s usually bad news.
But Craig Helser often surprises players by offering a compliment...
Documentation and dying: Help others keep your wishes
By Amy Geiszler-Jones
A body left for weeks in a morgue while a search is underway for a relative to claim it. Critical medical documents left behind when an...
My story: Back to civilization
By Suzie White
I had lived in Springfield, Mo., for about five years when I decided it was time to return to my hometown of Wichita. My first marriage...
Getting by with a little help from our friends
By Joe Stumpe
With 2020 here, it’s interesting to note that the active age has now been around for all or part of six decades.
Originally...
Silent partner
By Leslie Chaffin
My husband’s family bears a strong history of cancer. His father, brothers, aunts and uncles died of the disease. We carry cancer insurance as a result.
ORPHEUM CHRISTMAS SHOW TICKET CONTEST
Qualify for a chance to win tickets to Christmas shows at the Orpheum Theatre by identifying which classic holiday movies or TV specials contain the nine lines at right. From all the...
Santa makes a mean tiramusa
By Joe Stumpe
For years, Tim Churchill has enjoyed baking Christmas treats for family and friends, often using recipes learned from his Greek in-laws. A few years back, another...
Once a Wildcat…
Class of '54 reunites in El Dorado
EL DORADO – El Dorado High School’s class of ’54 always prided itself on its togetherness. Members showed off that closeness –...
Painting pastor
Gallery showcases works of Newton pastor
NEWTON – Jeffery Sparks sees a connection between his two passions of painting and pastoring.
“These are not two different...
Six Two Riding Club revs up support for local charities
By Debbi Elmore
The roar of motors shatters the Sunday quiet on a south Wichita street. Within moments, the first motorcycles appear. The Six Two Riding Club has arrived...
Chew on this: fingernails more important than you think
By Ted Blankenship
If you’re like me, you’re tired of impeachment talk, the 2020 election and even more unpleasant stuff going on in Washington. So I thought it would...
December Theatre
By Diana Morton
Crown Uptown Theatre, 3702 E. Douglas Ave. A Very Special Crown Christmas. An evening that promises you a bountiful buffet, belly laughs and beautiful holiday music...
Hospitals, health care and housing top senior wish list
An AARP Kansas survey of Wichita – area residents regarding the livability of their city revealed that nearly all of them (99 percent) believe that well-maintained hospitals and healthcare facilities are extremely...
JOY MAKERS: Volunteers get old Joyland carousel rolling at Botanica
By Joe Stumpe
When Botanica was given the old carousel from Joyland amusement park, it came with one roller coaster-sized problem:
It wasn’t in anything close...
Not crazy cat people
Sue and Ray Jones helped feral cats. Then the City of Augusta took them to court.
the active age
AUGUSTA – Sue and Ray Jones want...
Changes coming to Veterans Park
the active age
Families with more than one member who’ve served in the military will soon be able to commemorate that fact at Veterans Memorial Park.
WICHITA CELEBRITY PUZZLE CONTEST ANSWERS
Congratulations to the winners of last month’s puzzle contest/theater ticket drawing: Lois Barrett, Theresa Bills, Mrs. Pat Postlethwait, Debbie Rohrback and Maria Tenborg. And thanks again to the participating theaters who provided...
Street ministry and children’s garden: an era ends
By Debbi Elmore
Thirty-seven years after launching The Street Ministry to help the “motel moms” and their children on south Broadway, Straw Hidaka has hung up her mantle, following...
My yoga journey: strength, flexibility and courage unite
By Donya Rawlings
I remember the exact day I made the choice to make yoga a priority in my life. It was the day I took an online balance-based...
Time to get garlic in the ground
By Janice Sroufe
Fall is an ideal time to plant garlic. Just about any sunny spot of well-drained soil will work. Crumble up the dirt, add some compost, and...
November Briefs
Black history explored
A new exhibit looking at African American history in early Wichita focuses on what was known as the “West End” or “Black Belt” area of the...
Stop the presses, but for real this time
By Joe Stumpe
After 30-plus years in the newspaper business, I finally got to utter the words “Stop the presses!”
It wasn’t quite as much fun...
Down, ready, set . . . volunteer!
By Tim Marlar
It is fall and football season is in full swing. Have you heard the NFL has
a new promotion?
In honor of its
100th season, it is...
November Theatre
By Diana Morton
Crown Uptown Theatre, 3702 E. Douglas Ave. A Very Special Crown
Christmas. An evening that promises you a bountiful buffet, belly laughs and beautiful holiday music...
Senior board sees shake-up
By Joe Stumpe
The Sedgwick County Advisory Council on Aging and Disabilities has new leadership amid questions about what its role should be.
Chairman Joe Brown...
October time to check prescription plan
the active age
A free service that sounds like a famous razor might just help trim your spending on prescription drugs. Here’s how SHICK (Senior Health Insurance Counseling for...
Kansas beer fans gather for food & fun
By Joe Stumpe
Think young hipsters are the only folks enjoying all those local brewpubs that have popped open in recent years? Think again.
A group...
Slow-cooker standouts
By Joe Stumpe
Beer isn’t the only reason friends show up at Charlie Buess’ office on Fridays. One week he put together a batch of chili in a slow...
Longwell and Whipple face off in mayor’s race
the active age
Wichitans will vote in November whether to keep their current mayor, Jeff Longwell, or replace him with his challenger, state Rep. Brandon Whipple.
Songs with soul
Singing Quakers Alumni Choir readies 25th anniversary concert
the active age
A love of singing is something that never goes away, especially when the songs have...
City’s aviation history now in book
the active age
When Wichita’s new airport terminal opened in 2015, one of the most talked-about features was the large-scale display about the city’s aviation-related history.
WICHITA CELEBRITY PUZZLE CONTEST
We had so much fun with our last puzzle/theater ticket giveaway contest that we’re staging a sequel. This time, winners will receive tickets to one of these theaters: Crown Uptown, Mosley Street...
October Briefs
Telling tales
If you enjoy a good tall tale, the Derby Public Library has an event for you. And that’s no exaggeration.
Jim Hoy, an Emporia...
Resource Guide arrives
The active age's new 2019-2020 Resource Guide is now available. The FREE 82-page publication lists hundreds of organizations and businesses that serve seniors. Copies can be picked up at the active age...
Memorable friend
Celia Easley was the fun-loving face of Central Plains Area Agency on Aging to many local seniors, as the accompanying photo shows. “She advocated for those facing illness and difficult life circumstances...
‘Grandfamilies’ on rise
By Amy Geiszler-Jones
Last year, 67-year-old Lynn Ackerson became a parent again.
When she became the legal guardian of her granddaughter, Gracie,...
Senior budget sparks debate
By Joe Stumpe
Sedgwick County’s spending on senior-related services and programs won’t keep up with inflation in 2020.
County commissioners last month approved an aging services...
The Wichita Rotary built
By Clark Bastian
Sometimes a project just falls into your lap. In 2010, I arrived early for a board meeting at Rotary Club headquarters. In the meeting room was...
Savor this to-die-for pie
the active age
It’s hard to imagine a better use of late-summer tomatoes than this luscious and colorful tomato pie. Angie Prather found a version of this recipe in...
Living life to the Maxx
Half the fun of this job is running into people like Maxx Fairbanks.
Maxx introduced himself via email. He’d spotted an article in last month's issue about the filming...
September Briefs
5K run and fun
The final leg of the Heartland Games – a 5K run – takes place Sunday, Sept. 8 at the Downtown Senior Center, 200 S. Walnut....
Slam! Bang! And other points about exclamations!
By Ted Blankenship
I like punctuation as well as the next guy. The period is pretty handy and so is the comma if you don’t make it into an...
89 and looking for the next challenge
By Joe Stumpe
Dolores Cooper wants to keep helping people. But the respite program in which she’s done that for 30 years has come to an end.
Rotary couple say reading is ‘fun’-damental
By Joe Stumpe
Ben and Mary Grisamore are headed back to school again this fall to share their love of books with children whose homes sometimes contain none.
Get help with life’s challenges at 34th annual Senior Expo
By Monica Cissell
Three of Wichita’s favorite locations will host the 34th annual Senior Expo on Sept. 26: Botanica, the Wichita Art Museum and the Advanced Learning Library.
Low vision rehabilitation: Seeing a way forward
the active age
Too often, people experiencing age-related vision loss ignore the symptoms, hide them, or try to compensate for them with improvised inventions that fall short of providing...
Quirky collection carries memories for Newton man
By Nancy Carver Singleton
NEWTON – People almost always have something to say when they spot Kelly Hayes’ collection of old lunch boxes. “The conversation, it brings back old...
Fall a favorite time of year
By Julie Schaar
The welcoming sights, sounds and smells of fall have arrived. What comes to your mind when you think of fall? Do you think of football games,...
When Hollywood came to town
Film caught stars, locals in '69 action-drama
By Joe Stumpe
BENTON – When a Hollywood movie crew arrived here to make The Gypsy Moths, the...
Seniors flock to CBD, but does it work?
the active age
One afternoon last month, a 56-year-old woman walked into The Health Connection, a CBD shop on Douglas Avenue. Within minutes, she’d spent about $80 on a...
Ticket contest puts a song in winner’s heart
Linda Hitchcock screened the first phone call she received from the active age. No offense taken; lots of people do that with unfamiliar numbers these days.
When we finally...
Great eating in the good ole summertime
By Joe Stumpe
Turns out there is a cure for the summertime blues: Summertime food.
This is the time of year when less work means more...
Free fall gardening classes offered
Editor’s note: Incorrect information about these classes was printed in the July issue of the active age.
The Wichita Public Library will partner with the Sedgwick County Extension Horticulture...
Sedgwick County tweaks senior budget, plans review
The active age
Sedgwick County Manager Tom Stolz says it’s time for a comprehensive look at how programs that serve seniors are funded.
“One thing I...
City logs double bogey on Clapp Golf Park
By Dale Goter
On Aug. 1, a dark chapter in the history of Wichita public golf will occur as city officials shutter L.W. Clapp Golf Park.
August Briefs
Musical afternoons
The Thursday Afternoon Music Club has announced its schedule for 2019-2020. Unless otherwise noted, programs are held at 1:30 p.m. in Senseney Music Recital Hall, 2300...
Animals march to the beat of a different drummer
By Ted Blankenship
I was doing some serious research on the internet the other day when I came across a movie clip purporting to show how animals are attracted...
Editorial: Time for county to step up
An editorial from the board of the active age:
It’s time.
Over the past decade, the governing bodies of Wichita and Sedgwick County have made impressive...
Tunnel vision … and notes on a friend
By Joe Stumpe
While promoting Wicked Wichita, my book on the city’s early criminal history, I’ve been asked one question more than any other. And no it's not :...
Wichita Music Theatre Ticket Contest
Solve the word puzzle at right and qualify for a drawing to win four free tickets to Music Theatre Wichita, courtesy of the active age.
To solve the puzzle,...
Biking Across Kansas: Where the rubber meets the road
By Jim Mason
Editor’s note: Jim Mason wrote about preparing for his first BAK in the June issue of the active age. In this article, he tells what it...
It’s always prime time for prime rib
By Joe Stumpe
Even experienced cooks can be intimidated by large, expensive cuts of meat like prime rib. It’s not just the cost. Because prime rib is usually a...
July Briefs
Go Fourth
A new memorial to the American Revolutionary War will be dedicated Thursday, July 4, at Veterans Memorial Park, 329 Veterans Parkway(west of Second Street and North Waco). ...
Active Age editor led with humor, grit
Fran Kentling, former editor of the active age, died in the same way she lived her life: without fear or fuss and absolutely ready for the next adventure if there happens to be...
A letter to my younger self
By Martin Mendoza
I ran across a YouTube video of LGBT elders writing to their “younger selves” for National Coming Out Day, so I thought I would write one...
Riding high
Floodwaters detour but can't dampen fun on steamboat cruise
By Ted Blankenship
If you’re thinking about a steamboat river cruise, I suggest doing it when the...
Newton store like stepping back in time
By Nancy Carver Singleton
NEWTON —In a world full of change, Newton shoppers have been able to count on one thing: Phil Anderson III will usually be there to...
Wichita’s ‘Coney Island’ featured in new documentary
By Amy Geiszler-Jones
Before there was Joyland, there was Wonderland, Wichita’s first amusement park built on a now long-gone island in the Arkansas River near downtown Wichita.
Cyclist gets ready for the ride of a lifetime
By Jim Mason :
For years, I dreamed about participating in Biking Across Kansas (BAK), an organized, annual group ride that spans our state from the west border...
Aging funds to be cut?
By Joe Stumpe :
The Sedgwick County staff has presented a 2020 budget that would cut spending on aging programs and services by 2.3 percent, from about $10.9 million...
State’s elderly low in food security
Kansas seniors experience food insecurity at a rate greater than the national average, according to a new report.
The report, by an organization called Feeding America, found that across...
Gardening to attract butterflies a sign of Nature Astonishment Syndrome
By Janice Sroufe :
I saw this cartoon on Facebook about Nature Astonishment Syndrome: the process where one by one, plants, soil, fungi, insects and bacteria become amazing to...
From captain to Admiral: Ken Atnip personifies Wichita
By Joe Stumpe :
Ken Atnip used to catch bad guys for a living. But no, those magnificent whiskers he sports weren’t some kind of undercover disguise. Nor did...
May Briefs
Photo by Joe Stumpe
Hundreds of seniors took part in a shredding/food donation event sponsored by AARP at the Sedgwick County Extension Center last month. Here, volunteers Lana Murphy...
Games of the heart
By Joe Stumpe
You could get tired just watching Claire Overstake at a track meet. Her specialty is running – especially sprints and hurdles – but she also throws...
Senior council shifts from advice to advocacy
By Joe Stumpe
A group of seniors charged with advising Sedgwick County commissioners is embracing another role – advocacy. Whether they can persuade the county commission to increase funding...
Book it: Volunteers move, spruce up library
By Teresa Bachman
LEON – What can a handful of senior citizens with a small budget in a tiny town do? They can mobilize a whole community and revitalize...
Ten years later, Wichitan looks back at Tiller’s death
the active age
Dr. George Tiller’s murder shocked Wichita and the world 10 years ago this month, not least of all because the controversial abortion clinic operator was gunned...
Kansas legislative session: Not much good for older adults
By Mitzi McFatrich
TOPEKA – The 2019 Kansas legislative session began with older Kansans facing a number of serious issues. Progress was made on a scarce...
Selling out: 10 tips for a successful garage sale
By Leslie Chaffin
Two sure signs of spring: we get that “itch” to re-organize and garage sale signs start popping up on street corners.
Pick a...
RSVP Volunteers feted for service
Volunteers with the RSVP were honored April 11 at the Sedgwick County Extension Center. Last year the program placed 320 volunteers at 45 different sites in Sedgwick County (including the active age)....
Blazing a trail
African American history mapped across Kansas
By Amy Geiszler-Jones
From stops on the Underground Railroad to the headquarters of abolitionist John Brown, a new history trail...
She leads ‘Wild Women of the Wilderness’
By Joe Stumpe
NEWTON – When Marlis Nickel was growing up, schools didn’t offer much in the way of sports for girls. So she’d jog to school carrying her...
April Briefs
O’Keeffe at WAM
The Wichita Art Museum is staging one of its most anticipated exhibits in years with Georgia O’Keeffe: Art, Image, Style.
O’Keeffe is best...
Back to work: Seniors train for new jobs
By Joe Stumpe
Larry Crosswhite got used to a certain kind of reception as he tried to re-enter the workforce.
“Most people, when I would appear...
Christmas decorations finally coming down . . . and down
By Joe Stumpe
Ragene Moore is one of those people who leave their Christmas decorations up long past the holidays. But in her case, it’s by popular demand. Hundreds...
Something new just what the doctor ordered for our brains
By Leslie Chaffin
Our brains age just as our bodies do. But how they age depends on how we “exercise” them. Whether you’re still working or retired years ago,...
Wichitan named 2019 Ms. Wheelchair Kansas
By Joe Stumpe
The new Ms. Wheelchair Kansas plans to advocate for more than just people with disabilities.
“The policy that I’m trying to develop actually...
Barking up wrong tree just part of a dog’s job
By Ted Blankenship
They say (I don’t know exactly who) that the dog is man’s best friend. If it is a MAN’S friend, it’s not going to be a...
Riveting Rosies
Women helped win war on homefront
By Nancy Carver Singleton
Connie Palacioz worked twice on the storied B-29 Superfortress known as...
Senior funds lag behind
By Joe Stumpe
A Sedgwick County commissioner says more money is needed now for senior-related programs and services, along with a way to make sure that funding grows in...
Mexican melting pot draws US travelers
By Rob Howes
There are places in this world where cultures come together, mix their offerings and create a delicious array of food.
One such locale...
‘Oatmeal Twins’ Laurine and Florine turn 98
the active age
It was snowing that night in 1921 when a doctor rode out to an Oklahoma farmhouse to help a couple expecting their first baby.
The art of architecture
Editor’s note: Ronda Voorhis recently published an art book called "Drawing Wichita", which features 97 pen-and-ink illustrations of historical buildings and beloved sites in Wichita. The book is on sale for $27.99...
Digging into the seedy side of gardening can pay off
By Janice Sroufe
I am a notorious collector of seeds. It’s fascinating that a tiny, dead-looking speck of fiber or rock-like nugget can, with soil, light and water, turn into a huge plant
Little globs of...
New board member for the active age named
Julie Schaar of Valley Center has joined the board of the active age newspaper, bringing with her 23 years experience in health care.
“One of my first jobs was...
Cecil Riney is alive and, well, busy
Courtesy Photo
Cecil Riney and Lisa Hittle, a former colleague at Friends University.
By Joe Stumpe
Music brings generations together
By Joe Stumpe
“Rosy cheeks!”
“I want to see this little baby better!”
“I’m telling you, she’s going to be a drummer!”
When some young children come to make music for residents of the Caritas Nursing Center, they...
A second chance at love
By Amy Houston
There is life after divorce or the death of a longtime spouse. This Valentine’s Day, three couples will celebrate the new partners who helped them find love when they least expected it.
Rick...
‘Farm girl’ looks back on 107 years
By Joe Stumpe
Don’t expect Edna Hall to single out one remarkable day from her remarkably long life.
“My life was all pretty interesting,” Hall, who will turn 107 on Jan. 31, said. “I was a...
Friends U. prof retiring, but not from music
By Joe Stumpe
Lisa Hittle discovered jazz as a seventh grader in Winfield. It wasn’t just the swing and soul of what’s been called America’s only original art form, it was the chance to do...
Byblos’ best bites in new book
Editor’s note: This is an excerpt from “Cooking with Inspiration: Lebanese Cuisine” by Ilham Saad, who owned Byblos, one of Wichita’s most popular Lebanese restaurants, from 1989-2017. The book, which includes 124 recipes, can...
Dale Strattman brings ‘clusters of ideas’ to CityArts
By Mike Dwyer
Ten years ago, in Dale Strattman’s 65th year, CityArts held a retrospective of his black-and-white, silver gelatin print photographs. Since then, several exhibitions of a topical nature – on women, on children,...
Wichita Symphony Orchestra at 75: One fan’s view
By Helen Bullock
A classical violinist playing on stage in bright red shoes? What is this? Oh, yes, it’s the Wichita Symphony Orchestra’s “Wizard of Oz” movie/concert with its story of Dorothy trying to get...
‘Reality-based’ TV renovation shows mostly fantasy
By Ted Blankenship
Watch some of those cable shows where they “flip” houses (no they don’t toss them on their roofs), and you’ll discover that the laundry room is an important part of the modern...
New report examines how nursing homes are performing in region
The active age
Kansas Advocates for Better Care has released its annual report on health safety inspections of nursing facilities for 2018. Several area facilities appear in the report’s “good” or “poor” performance columns.
KABC, a...
A life in black and white: Secret lasted 70 years
By Joe Stumpe
Growing up in Newton, Verda Byrd felt lucky to be the daughter of Ray Wagner, an African American railroad porter, and his wife, Edwinna.
“They loved me,” Verda said. “They were my world....
Ironman: ‘I don’t do it for fun. I do it to win.’
By Joe Stumpe
Dale Bing hadn’t run on a regular basis since junior high school when his 11-year-old son asked him to jog alongside him in the 1998 5K River Run.
“I thought it was pretty...
Wichita shows new face to world in 2019
Artist GLeo, left, may be camera shy, but there’s nothing quiet about the mural she’s painted on the east side of the Beachner Grain Elevator. The mural can be seen from 1-135 and E....
Sweet! State’s best pies star in new cookbook from KPTS
Beth Bower hit the highway to map Kansas’ pie ways. Bower, a food writer and freelance editor, hosted “The Pie Way…Kansas Style,” a documentary which debuted on KPTS-Channel last month, and also wrote the...
Play it again, Doris: Pianist has dazzled Wichita since the ‘40s
By Ted Blankenship
Drop in for a nightcap at the Wichita Country Club and if you’re lucky, you’ll hear the sweet sound of traditional jazz coming from a grand piano. Delicately touching those 88 keys...
Telling Stories
By Leslie Chaffin
When Sharon Brown read to her grandchildren, she often found herself “thinking that I could write a better story.”
Today she’s the author of three children’s books and is at work on a...
Free monthly series to help seniors take ‘positive actions’
By Amy Geiszler-Jones
A seminar about downsizing and senior living options was just the “incentive” that Joe and June Miller needed.
With information gleaned from that seminar, the Millers felt more confident about making the decisions...
Toilet paper more than a little good bathroom reading
By Ted Blankenship
When you penalize your friends, they ought to be able to retaliate, and they often do. Consider Canada, Australia and Mexico. Our President slapped tariffs on the import of some of their...
The White Sack
Editor’s note: Reader Rita Hephner came across this story of Depression Era Wichita while going through some family papers. It was written by her mother, Lela Eitel, and presented to Lela’s siblings at Christmas...
Lunch ladies
By Joe Stumpe
When members of the Thursday Afternoon Cooking Club first got together 127 years ago, they surely didn’t anticipate that some of their great-granddaughters would be carrying on the tradition today.
Yet that’s what...
Oh lordy, the active age turns 40
By Fran Kentling
The active age marks its 40th birthday this month.
Strike up the band, blow out the candles and celebrate!
First, let’s thank the mother of the active age, the Older Americans Act (OAA).
It was...
Election may boost seniors
The active age
The 2018 election could lead to improvements in health care, the legalization of medical marijuana and other changes sought by seniors at the state and local level.
Democratic Gov.-Elect Laura Kelly favors expanding...
Awards for the active age
The active age won awards for general excellence and four other categories of work in the 2018 North American Mature Newspaper Publishers Association competition. Competing in Division C, for newspapers with circulations between 50,000...
Toy exhibit ranges from ray guns to rockets
By Amy Geiszler-Jones
In the early 1930s, children suddenly began asking Santa for a new kind of Christmas gift: space toys, popularized by the first science fiction radio show and fueled by marketing gimmicks. Later,...
Halstead Harvey Girl looks back on “elegant experience”
By Nancy Carver Singleton
Helen Collins of Halstead was volunteering at the Halstead Heritage Museum & Depot one afternoon when each of the three couples who visited wanted to meet “The Harvey Girl.” They were...
Rider, 77, still blazing trails on two wheels
By Jim Laney
I seem to have a knack for riding on two wheels, with or without a road to follow. As a kid in the country I rode on dirt roads and trails through...
Setting sail
Wichitans asked to help support new ship bearing city’s name
By Joe Stumpe
A new Navy ship called the USS Wichita will soon be patrolling foreign seas, and a retired rear admiral from Derby is raising...
Try this tariff theory of Ted’s on for size
By Ted Blankenship
President Trump says his tariffs will punish the Chinese without hurting Americans.
The Chinese-naturally-enacted retaliatory tariffs on American agricultural products, cars and industrial goods. Then they began talking about buying airplanes from the...
Looking for Earl in a haystack
RoseAnn Kirkpatrick just wants to know one thing:
What happened to Earl?
I doubt I can help her find the answer, but here goes anyway:
Kirkpatrick was reading through a stack of old Reader’s Digest magazines recently when she...
Singers performance
The Wichita Broadway Singers are calling themselves the “Off-Broadway Singers” for this year’s December Dreams concert. That’s because they’re opening with “Try to Remember” from The Fantasticks, which has the longest run of any...
Holiday spirit at WAM
The Wichita Art Museum hosts two free family-oriented events this month.
From 2-4 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 2, WAM’s annual Holiday Open House offers refreshments, live music, dance performances and a chance to visit with...
New Nutcracker
Photos Courtesy of Dr. Joseph Myers
Friends University is presenting a new, full-length production of The Nutcracker that "is not your grandma’s Nutcracker."
Andrea Vazquez-Aguirre, new director of the dance program, has choreographed the work to...
Wichita takes pass on centers
Photo by Joe Stumpe
Northeast Senior Center in Wichita has run out of mats to hide carpet stains.
By Joe Stumpe
A new library for $32 million. Up to $81 million for a minor league ballpark....
River Castle ‘BBQ’ Campbell left mark on city
By Jack Kellogg
Few buildings in Wichita provoke more curiosity than Campbell Castle, the 17-bedroom, feudal-style mansion overlooking the Little Arkansas River at 11th Street and North River Boulevard. As it turns out, builder...
Stroke can’t stop love of music
By Amy Houston
When Lisa Shorter walked into a keyboard class for adult beginners last year, it took all her courage and patience. After all, she was the only student who’d be forced to play...
CHILI CHAMPS
Red Hat Society members claim trophy on first try
By Joe Stumpe
It took Sandra Whittemore five years to persuade her fellow Red Hatters to enter the Wichita Wagonmasters Downtown Chili Cookoff.
Maybe next time they’ll listen.
Members...
First letters, then love for pair
By Debbi Elmore
Don and Ona Bates met through the written word – the old-fashioned, pre-Internet written word. In 1993, Don responded to an article in The Wichita Eagle looking for people interested in corresponding...
Andover trail on the wild side
By Joe Stumpe
ANDOVER - Don’t be surprised if you spot some furry friends while checking out Andover’s newest biking and walking trail. Scaly ones, too.
The four-mile extension of the Redbud Trail, from Prairie Creek...
Wichitan advises candidate to ham it up
William T. Davitt thinks the upcoming gubernatorial election could all boil down to ham. If only a certain candidate would take his advice.
Davitt copied the active age on a letter he sent to Democratic...
Navigating Alzheimer’s focus of conference
By Amy Geiszler-Jones
With no single test, scan or exam for the disease, getting a diagnosis for Alzheimer’s can be a challenge, Caregivers and patients often have to become advocates if they suspect the disease.
“Some...
‘Gentleman farmer’ airs beef with cattle
By Ted Blankenship
I tell people that I grew up out in the country and they usually assume I was raised on a farm. I did see an occasional haystack and every spring our house...
Alternative market ‘makes a little difference in the world’
Tammy Tidwell went from shopper to volunteer at the annual Wichita Alternative Gift Market.
“Whether you are here to buy or work a booth, we are all here to make a little bit of difference...
The long and short of it
By Joe Stumpe
At 6 feet tall, Samajae Haynes-Jones isn’t exactly short. Until, that is, you stand him next to Asbjorn Midtgaard, his 7-foot-tall Wichita State basketball teammate.
At last month’s Shocker media day, we asked...
Brain freeze Senior blips funny and frustrating
By Elvira Crocker
We’ve all experienced them at one time or another. Those lapses in memory that can often be either embarrassing or hilarious.
Though they can happen at any age, they do seem to happen...
Back on the Racks Again!!!
Active Age is back at Dillons on a regular basis, convenient for readers and offering great visibility for our advertisers. And don’t forget to pick up our annual +55 Resource Guide, THE comprehensive source...
Project Wichita collects seniors’ views
By Joe Stumpe
Older residents appear just as interested as younger ones in helping chart the area’s future, according to results of the Project Wichita survey. Of 13,907 people took time to fill out the survey,...
Almost 5 Million Fed
By Joe Stumpe
Marc Mourning cooks with a wooden spoon the size of a canoe paddle. When you’re preparing food for a couple thousand people per day, everything gets bigger.
“This is like a workout,” Mourning,...
Sloppy Joes
Fajita seasoning, Worcestershire sauce and two kinds of sugar make Sloppy Joes at The Lord’s Diner “the best Sloppy Joes I’ve ever had,” in one volunteer’s opinion.
1 lb ground beef
1/2 Tbs fajita seasoning such...
Minor league baseball back
By Bob Rives
William H. Hemp is no longer a household name.
Even the colorful nickname, Ducky, he got while playing baseball here, is lost in time.
But in 1887, the 18-year-old from St. Louis was a...
Election spotlight: candidates address senior issues
The active age sent questionnaires to political candidates last month to get their views on issues affecting seniors. All the candidates were asked questions No. 1 and 2. Additionally, candidates for governor were asked...
Fire deaths hit elderly
By Joe Stumpe
Two recent deaths highlight the risk posed to seniors by house fires, a danger that increases during cooler months.
In September, a 65-year-old Andover man died after being trapped in a house fire....
Highland hoopla: Historic cemetery sparks book, renovation
This is adapted from the author’s introduction to “Walking With The Wichita Pioneers: A Guidebook to Highland Cemetery” by Barb Myers. The book sells for $20, with all proceeds going to renovate Highland Cemetery.
By...
Walk to End Alzheimer’s coming to arena
Show your support for the fight to end Alzheimer’s by taking part in the Wichita Walk to End Alzheimer’s on Saturday, Oct. 13, at Intrust Bank Arena.
Or even better, put together a fundraising team...
Panda-monium at EP
Exploration Place presents Pandas: A Journey Home, a new documentary in its digital dome theater starting Saturday, Oct. 20. Filmmakers “were granted unprecedented access to the Wolong Panda Center in China,” according to a...
Civil War Women
Did you know that during the Civil War, hundreds of women cut their hair and donned men’s clothes so they could report to Union and Confederate army recruiters? And that others served as scouts...
Jackie Brown in town
Actress Pam Grier will receive the Ad Astra Award when the Tallgrass Film Festival returns for its 16th year this month.
“Pam Grier is someone that Tallgrass has sought to bring to Wichita and...
Native American Day
A dance exhibition, talks by Native American groups and free traditional meal are on tap for The Native American Celebration Day on Saturday, Oct. 6 at the Mid-America All-Indian Center.
The free event runs from...
Gardening ideas for fall and beyond
By Janice Sroufe
Although summer with its hot weather is my favorite time of year, the cooler temperatures and beautiful colors of fall are comforting and sometimes a relief. This year we have had nice...
Project Beauty looks forward at 50
By Joe Stumpe
Project Beauty, Inc. may be down in numbers, but it’s not out. President Sue Boewe admits to an ambitious goal for the 50-year-old group founded to spruce up Wichita.
“I’m hoping we’re going...
Wanted: Poll workers for Sedgwick County
You can help promote democracy and make a few bucks in the bargain.
With this year's elections rapidly approaching, the Sedgwick County Election Office is recruiting poll workers. The Election Office is increasing the number of...
Bow wow! ‘Theo’ is a hero
By Joe Stumpe
A tiny dog named Theodore is turning out to be worth his weight in gold.
Mary Enstrom acquired the 2.3-pound Teacup Yorkie as a sidekick for her ministry serving nursing home residents.
Theodore ended...
‘Fireball’ Jackson inspires book
By Debbi Elmore
Gerald McCoy was a boy when he saw Isaiah “Fireball” Jackson pitch in Wichita’s National Baseball Congress tournament. Jackson’s explosive fastball wasn’t the only remarkable thing about him. There was also the...
Centers for seniors see funds frozen
By Joe Stumpe
Sedgwick County commissioners have again decided to keep funding for area senior centers at 2010 levels, frustrating users and supporters. The centers serve thousands of residents with meals, recreation, educational activities and...
Lazy, luscious lasagna
By Joe Stumpe
Easy isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when making lasagna. But a couple of shortcuts will put this dish on your table in about an hour, with little mess to...
Small town realizes big dream
Valley Center’s old library sat so close to railroad tracks that it used to shake when a train passed.
“We didn’t know whether it was an earthquake or train,” the library’s office manager, Terry Foster,...
Volunteers, ‘old farts’ and the active age
From The Editor:
By Joe Stumpe
I picked a good day to attend my first meeting of the Sedgwick County Advisory Council on Aging. The council was hearing how local tax dollars are being distributed to...
‘Must-see’ Senior Expo expands to new library
By Monica Cissell
Valuable information, free health screenings, new opportunities and useful items for seniors and caregivers await visitors at the 33rd annual Senior Expo.
Held at three sites, including the new Advanced Learning Library at...
All aboard…for downtown Railfest
3rd annual Railfest features train rides
By Amy Geiszler-Jones
This year’s Railfest offers a rare opportunity to ride the rails in downtown Wichita.
Volunteers with the Great Plains Transportation Museum, located at 700 E. Douglas across from...
Tremont Street: Lusty, boozy, bloody
By Joe Stumpe
If you look at a map of Wichita today, you won’t find Tremont Street. In its time, though, it was one of the city’s best-known thoroughfares.
Indeed, Tremont was notorious across the...
Classified Ads:
Ron Goodwin’s Painting
Painting, interior/exterior. Power washing, gutter cleaning, roofing repairs, handyman services and odd jobs. 30 years experience. Senior discounts. 316-461-2510
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Golden Power lift chair has custom bucket seat with comfort backrest. Sterling grey plush...
Warning: Douglas closed – for fun
For a second year, Open Streets ICT will bring Wichitans of all ages together for a fun afternoon on Douglas Avenue. And if it’s anything like last year, when 18,000 people showed up, it’ll...
PEAR, WALNUT AND GOAT CHEESE TART
1 pie crust
1 pkg. (8 oz.) cream cheese, softened
3 oz. goat cheese
Pinch salt
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 1/2 cup peeled and sliced ripe pears
½ cup chopped walnuts...
Who do you think you are? Seven generations to choose from
By Miranda Allen
What’s the matter with kids today? Why won’t anyone listen to me? They are so lazy and have no work ethic! They are so stuck in their ways!
How often have you heard...
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