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Golf Courses in Wichita, Kansas- Tee Time!

There are some very skilled golfers in this great state and that’s why there are so many great golf courses in Wichita, Kansas. Maybe all the great courses are why we have so many skilled golfers. Either way, we have a nice list for you!

Whether it is for business, pleasure, or both and you have a desire to play some golf, there is an amazing variety available to you in and around our city. The relaxed, welcoming, and laid back vibe in the air capital make it the perfect destination for you to test your golfing skills.Golf-CourseWe will highlight some of the best golf courses in and around Wichita so you are aware of what your options are when seeking to get in a round here in the river city! You’ll be wanting to schedule a tee time soon!

Sim Park Municipal Golf Course

The Sim Park Municipal Course, also known as the Arthur B. Sim Golf Course is smack in the center of Wichita’s Museum district at 2020 West Murdock Street and is one of the favorite public golf courses for locals and visitors alike.

This charming course has been operational since 1919, and many generations of Wichita golfers have fond memories of this beautiful course. The Sim Park facility is an 18-hole par 70 course with a total area of 6330 yards.

The course is relatively flat with a slope rating of 119, the course rating is 70.5, and the greens are made up of Bermuda grass.

 

You can also take advantage of the Pro-Shop that is available at the facility. To secure your Tee Time at this popular Wichita Golf Course, you can call 316-337-9100 or click the link above.

MacDonald Golf Course

The MacDonald Golf Course is located at 840 North Yale Avenue in Wichita and is another public golf course that is available to all the golfers around town. This sophisticated course has been open to the public since 1924 and was designed by noted golfer James Dalgleish.

Our Wichita Flag Golfer Design….Click Image To Browse Or Buy!

The MacDonald course is an 18-hole par 71 course with a total yardage of 6911. MacDonald’s Golf Course has a slope rating of 131 on Bermuda grass and has a United States Professional Golfers Association (USPGA) rating of 73.9.

 

 

There is also a fully stocked pro-shop available at the MacDonald Course. To book your Tee Time for the MacDonald Golf Course, please contact 316-688-9391 or click the link above.

 

LW Clap Memorial Golf Course

This public golf course is located at 4611 East Harry Street in Wichita. The LW Clap Memorial Golf Course has been continuously opened to the public since 1923.

This fun course is an 18-hole, 6087 yard facility with a slope rating of 120 and a USPGA rating of 70.2. The LW Clap Golf course is regarded as moderately challenging and is a great option for both experienced golfers and beginners.

There is also a pro-shop available at the facility for you to grab anything that you might need before you Tee off! To reserve your Tee Time, you can call 316-688-9341 or click the link above.

Tex Consolver Golf Course

This course is known by many as Pawnee Prairie Golf Course. Tex Consolver is located at 1931 South Tyler Street in West Wichita and is the longest public golf course in the city with a yardage of 7361.

Tex Consolver is an 18-hole, par 72 courses with a slope rating of 120 and an available pro-shop. The course is very accessible for people flying into Wichita due to its proximity to the Eisenhower National Airport.

Tex Consolver is an ideal course for avid golfers who want to hone their skills. This gorgeous course is regarded as challenging due to the presence of tall trees and at least six water holes throughout the lengthy trek.

To book Tee Times at Tex Consolver, please contact 316-337-9494 or click the link above.

Sierra Hills Golf Course

The Sierra Hills Golf Course is the smallest public course in Wichita with a total yardage of 3100 and is perfect for golfers who want to test their short game and is great for beginners since it is one of the least challenging courses in Wichita.

This nice little course is located at 13420 East Pawnee Street and opened in 2004. The Sierra Hills Golf Course is an executive 18-hole course; it has a slope rating of 113 and a USPGA rating of 70.0.

Please contact 316-733-9333 regarding Tee Time information or click the link above.

Auburn Hills Golf Course

Auburn Hill Golf Course is located on South 135th Street West in Wichita and began operation in the year 2001. The course was designed by Perry Dye and is an 18-hole par 72 facility, with a total yardage of 7143.

The slope rating is 142, and the USPGA rating is 76. The Auburn Hill Golf Course is surrounded by a beautiful community with a lot of trees and is a top-rated course in Wichita.

For Tee Time reservations, please contact 316-721-7477 or click the link above.

The courses below require at least one member in your group.

Reflection Ridge Golf Course  

The Reflection Ridge Golf Course located in Northwest Wichita between Ridge and Tyler off of 21st street. It  is a private 18-hole championship golf course and is regarded as one of the best courses in the city.

These beautifully manicured greens were opened in 1989 and were designed by Karl Litten. It is a par 72 course with a yardage of 6659 and a USPGA rating of 73.1 and a slope rating of 128.

The course includes amenities such as a clubhouse, grill, and a fully equipped pro-shop. So, if you are in Wichita and desire a top-notch private golf course, the Reflection Ridge Course is a great option for you, please call 316-721-4653 to book your Tee Times or click the link above.

Tall Grass Country Club

Tall Grass Country Club is another upscale private 18-hole championship golf club in the city of Wichita. The golf course is known for its lush native tall grass which gives the course a distinctive and beautiful look. This picturesque course has been operational since 1981 and was designed by Arthur Hills.

Tall Grass Country Club is a moderately challenging golf course and golfers of varying skill levels will enjoy Teeing off here. The course is par 71 and is 6,758 yards in length and has a slope rating of 137. It has also garnered a USPGA rating of 74, which is one of the best in the city of Wichita.

This Golf Club also includes a fully stocked pro-shop with a variety of branded golf apparel and equipment for you to choose from. If you are desirous of hosting a golf tournament in Wichita, the Tall Grass Country is the perfect place to do so. To get more details about Tee Times and schedules, you can contact 316-684-5663 or click the link above.

Finally, these are some of the leading golf courses in the city of Wichita. All of them are available to you whether you live here or if you’re just passing through and want to enjoy the pleasures of golfing!

Share your golf story or comment below if you’d like. We would love to hear from you! Let us know your thoughts on these courses or tell us about another.  Don’t be late for your tee time!

Alexa

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Italian Restaurants In Wichita, Kansas

I love Italian food! There are many wonderful Italian restaurants in Wichita, Kansas. Italian food is delicious and it stands out as a favorite of so many people because of its unique ingredients and methods of preparation. Before our list I must give an honorable mention to AJ’s Sports Grill , who is not only one of the best pizza places Wichita has but I feel they rank with some of the best pizza I have had anywhere. And I’ve been around!

However, they aren’t on this list because AJ’s is a sports bar and not an Italian restaurant. However, I felt compelled to mention their awesome pizza! If you want the best pizza Wichita KS has you covered. If you want the best Italian Wichita KS has you covered.

One can hardly talk about Italian food without mentioning the pizza pie, which is the top Italian choice of so many. We will have plenty of other pizza pros on this list I assure you!

Many Italian food lovers would go to great lengths to have a taste of their favorite authentic meal. There is no need to travel far to get that Italian masterpiece, especially when you have great Italian food close by ready to be served to you. Yes, fresh hot pizza and many other delicious dishes of Italian cuisine! One of many great benefits of being a Shocker is you don’t ever have to wonder if there are any great Italian restaurants close by!

If you love Italian food and you are currently in the air capital then you should know we have many establishments in this city with wonderfully authentic recipes of your favorite dish. Some of the best rated Italian is right here in the river city. This article lists some of the best Italian restaurants Wichita has to offer of which you should definitely try!

Most of these restaurants serve lunch and dinner and they mostly open by 11:00 am and close at 9:00 pm, sometimes 9:30 pm, depending on the restaurant and the day you choose to visit. Links are provided for your convenience.

Here are some wonderful restaurants in Wichita offering authentic Italian cuisine:

1- Il Vicino Wood Oven Pizza

Located on Douglas Ave, this restaurant offers Italian dishes of all types that you will love. As expected, you will get pizza in this restaurant, together with traditional plates and other meals that are vegetarian friendly and also gluten free.

A family friendly restaurant and their food is fresh, tasty, and well presented. Their main menu includes different types of Pizza, Calzone, Panini, Bambini, and many other Italian treats.

2- Bella Vita

If you want to visit a restaurant offering Italian cuisine, you should try visiting Bella Vita. Located on West St. This is a great place to get Italian food and they also have vegetarian friendly meals. In addition, lovers of gluten free foods will find this place welcoming as they offer gluten free options as well. The food tastes great and the service is awesome there! I feel it is something you will enjoy.

One of the cuisines you will come across here include Chicken Pomodoro, which is chicken sautéed with fresh tomatoes, basil, olive oil and garlic with light marinara sauce, served over penne pasta.

Another delicious classic you can order from this restaurant is Fettuccini Alfredo, which is my favorite, fettuccini pasta sautéed in a homemade white Alfredo cream sauce.

Other greats I recommend you enjoy include Chicken Cacciatore and Chicken Damabianka.

3- Picasso’s Pizzeria

The name sounds Italian, doesn’t it? Voted Wichita’s best pizza six years in a row. Yes, just as the name sounds, the cuisine in this restaurant is really outstanding. This one is also located on Douglas Ave. and offers great Italian meal options, various types of pizza, and fresh toppings.

Here you will surely eat every bite as the pizza is delicious and the waiters are most attentive. In this restaurant, you get treated well and served whatever you want, be it lunch or dinner. They offer catering services and Gluten-sensitive options.

4- Siena Tuscan Steakhouse

A classy restaurant with gorgeous décor, this restaurant is located on Broadway Ave, in the Ambassador Hotel. Here you will get various choices of great Italian food, as they offer assorted tasty Italian delicacies.

In this spot, the Alfredo sauce is amazing, the Eggplant Parmigiana tastes delicious, the knot rolls are splendid, and everything is superb!

5- Albero Café

Offering Italian and vegetarian friendly options, this restaurant is a great option for lovers of Italiano! It is located on Central Ave. The food from this place is fresh and made from the best Italian ingredients. The foods here is authentic and the atmosphere of the dinning room is awesome with prices that are very reasonable.

6- Carrabba’s Italian Grill

Here you will get tasty Italian and vegetarian friendly foods with the right toppings and flavors. This restaurant just like many on the list offers lunch, dinner, and catering services. It is located on Rock Rd. In this restaurant with a fancy dining room you will receive some of the most mouth watering dishes.

7- DeFazio’s

You probably won’t find any Wichita Italian cuisine list without this hometown favorite because DeFazio’s is here to make you experience the great taste you love. An Italian restaurant situated on Amidon Ave. It is a nice place for family to eat with a pleasant atmosphere and lots of assorted traditional Italian favorites.

8- Angelo’s Italian Restaurant

Think Angelo, think Italian. This Italian restaurant located on Central Ave. is just as good as the Italian comfort food of the old Angelo’s from the same owners and recipes that have been either around Wichita or in Derby for over 50 years. They must be doing something right. I must say, you will be served yummy Italian at this restaurant, be it pizza, spaghetti, or any other Italian treat you may fancy.

In this restaurant, you can choose from many appetizers. They also offer great sauces and salads. You should try their garlic bread stuffed with mozzarella cheese along with marinara sauce or the sliced Italian sausage sautéed in olive oil, garlic, shallots, basil, and marinara.

9- Piatto Neapolitan Pizzeria

This is another awesome place to try out, as the atmosphere is great and the food is delicious. Also located on Douglas Ave. this restaurant offers great Italian! Whether you are going there for lunch or dinner, you will get your desired treats with specialty sauces such as marinara, olive oil, garlic, basil, Alfredo, and alla panna. Their salad options are awesome too!

10- Olive Garden

A great and reliable place to have lunch or dinner. This well-known classic restaurant offers all the great Italian treats you love where you will surely ask for more. So whenever you are looking for a solidly faithful Italian cuisine, give Olive Garden a try.

They offer tasty meals for lunch, and they also offer different variety of sandwiches such as the Meatball Parmigiana, which consists of baked French bread topped with meatball marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese. Another great treat is the Philly Cheese Steak made up of baked French bread topped with sautéed onions, green peppers, mozzarella cheese, and of course, sliced steak. You will also come across other great options I enjoy like the Chicken Parmigiana sub.

These are some lovely restaurants with delicious Italian favorites. Their tasty cuisine will not let you down!

Did we forget one that you think should make our list? Let us know by commenting below!

 

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Lawrence Dumont Stadium History- An Icon

My daughter's drawing

Lawrence Dumont Stadium is something dear to the baseball fans in Wichita and the surrounding area.  Not every baseball fan knows all Lawrence Dumont Stadium history, but they appreciate the stadium and know it is special to them and to most baseball fans around the city.

Anyone who has any connection with the town of Wichita, Kansas, would know about the iconic field. This stadium has been a part of the Wichita landscape since 1934 and has been the retreat for baseball fans and a source of great joy and pride over its eighty-four years of existence.

The stadium accommodates 6,400 people – the intimate nature of the stadium has resulted in the fans bonding together whenever a baseball game is hosted at the stadium.

My daughter drew this
My daughter’s design

However, the time is up for Lawrence Dumont Stadium and it will be completely demolished in the next few weeks, paving the way for the development of a new 75 million dollar stadium that will be the home of a Minor League Baseball Team, the New Orleans Baby Cakes.

The history and significance of the Lawrence Dumont to the town of Wichita should not be discounted. We will chronicle the history and impact that the stadium has had on Wichita and its surroundings over the last eighty-four years.

Early Days of the Lawrence Dumont Stadium

The main person behind the idea to create a stadium in Wichita was local businessman Ray “Hap” Dumont, who convinced the former Mayor of the town, Charles Lawrence, of the need for a baseball stadium in the region.

This stadium was necessary after the first baseball stadium in the area – Island Park which was built on the Akerman Island in the Arkansas River was torn down to facilitate the widening of the river channel. Island Park was in existence from 1912-1933.

Lawrence commissioned the creation of the stadium in 1929 and construction was completed in 1934. He strongly believed that the stadium should be located within the boundaries of the town and the stadium was built on lands given to the city by local landowner Charles Payne and was named the Lawrence Stadium in 1934 in honor of Mr. Charles Lawrence who died that same year.

When the Lawrence Stadium opened in 1934, it had no tenants and was used to host the National Baseball Congress (NBC) games, which was a semi-professional tournament created by Hap Dumont.

In the first year of the tournament, Dumont used his business savvy and negotiation skills to convince baseball legend, Satchell Paige, to bring his team – The Bismarck Churchills to the new Lawrence Stadium to partake in the NBC World series League. Paige was reportedly paid $1,000 to be a part of the League.

This move by Dumont was a major success, and the stadium has been home to the National Baseball Conference since the initial series in 1934. The National Baseball Conference (NBC) World Series is now the longest running sporting event in the United States and is a major part of the legacy of the Lawrence Dumont Stadium.

Lawrence Dumont Stadium
(One of the many photos that inspired my daughter’s awesome drawing that is displayed at the beginning of this post.)

For his outstanding contribution to the construction of the baseball stadium in Wichita, the stadium was renamed the Lawrence Dumont Stadium in 1971 after the death of Hap Dumont. He is considered by many as the single most important figure in the history of baseball in the Air Capital.

Many teams have called the Lawrence Dumont Stadium their home. Over its storied eighty-four-year history, Lawrence Dumont Stadium has been the home to four different minor league teams. These teams include the Wichita Indians, Wichita Aeros, Wichita Wranglers, and Wichita Wingnuts.

The Wichita Indians

The Wichita Indians team called the Lawrence Dumont Stadium their home between 1950 and 1955, playing as a part of the Western League. They were the first club to claim the stadium as their home ground which makes them a significant team in the history of Lawrence Dumont Stadium.

The Wichita Aeros

After a break of fifteen years with no team being hosted at Lawrence Dumont Stadium, the Wichita Aeros came onto the scene in 1970. They played in the Triple-A American Association Minor League between 1970 and 1984.

The Aeros were associated with five major league baseball clubs (The Cleveland Indians, The Chicago Cubs, The Texas Rangers, The Montreal Expos, and The Cincinnati Reds) during their fifteen-year history. The Aeros won a single division title during their era here and then transferred to Buffalo New York in 1984, changing their name to the Buffalo Bisons.

The Wichita Wranglers

“Hear that Wrangler thunder, hear that Wrangler beat, Wichita Wrangler Baseball, Stampede!” That commercial is still stuck in my head after all these years.

The Wranglers team was based at the Lawrence Dumont Stadium from 1987 -2007. The team played as a part of the Texas Minor League and was an affiliate of the San Diego Padres Major League team from 1987 to 1994. They were also affiliated with the Kansas City Royals from 1995 to 2007. The Wichita Wranglers won the Texas League Championship on three occasions – 1987, 1992, and 1999. Then they moved to Springdale, Arkansas in 2007. They became the Northwest Arkansas Naturals.

The Wichita Wingnuts

The Wichita Wingnuts are the most recent team to reside at the Lawrence Dumont Stadium. They had been at the Stadium since 2008 and played their last game in 2018 when the lease was terminated by the city of Wichita. They played in the American Association League and won the championship in 2014.

Renovations at the Lawrence Dumont Stadium

This iconic stadium has lasted eighty-four years in the River City. For the stadium to have the longevity that it has had, renovations were necessary.

Major improvements were made in 2001 and 2011. In the 2001 phase of the refurbishment the infield turf was re-laid, a new outfield fence was built, the sound system was improved, and the seating area was repainted.

In the 2011 wave of renovations, the entire grass outfield and AstroTurf infield were replaced by a ram turf which is a more modern type of surface. New lights were also installed, the dugouts were extended, and the concourse areas were also improved. These renovations allowed the Lawrence Dumont Stadium to continue functioning as a good venue for hosting baseball games.

Even after those efforts to continue the legacy for the fans, this year the city finally decided the stadium had outlived its usefulness and that a new stadium was necessary to continue the rich baseball tradition of Wichita.

America's pastime

This new stadium will be built on the same venue and is scheduled to be completed by the 2020 baseball season.

The End of an Era

Finally, the inevitable demolition of the Lawrence Dumont Stadium has pained the hearts of Wichita baseball supporters. Since this is the stadium that has been the home of Wichita Baseball for generations, it will be missed.

However, the building of the new and improved stadium will inspire renewed hometown hope of a new baseball beginning. A continued legacy and an exciting future for the baseball crazy town of Wichita.

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Wichita Shockers Basketball Schedule- 2018-2019

We have the 2018-2019 Wichita Shockers Basketball Schedule below and then an article after the win loss chart so far this season.  The Black And Yellow won the exhibition game handily to kick things off. That symbolic victory has been followed by some exciting games even if we didn’t leave with the win in several of those close match-ups.

We will look at some of the talent and prospects of the Wichita State University basketball schedule and the team as a whole.  After the article Iwe have pieced together the same schedule with many more details on game locations, links for ways to listen or get live statistics, and we have even included stadium links to buy tickets if you want them.

2018-19 Wichita State Shockers Printable Basketball Schedule
Wichita Shockers Basketball Schedule

How will the Wichita State Shockers fare in the 2018-2019 Basketball Season?

It is that time of the year again when the college basketball season and the Wichita State basketball schedule is in full swing. It has pretty much just kicked off and everyone is so looking forward to watching their favorite team in action and all the thrills and excitement that come with it. Most in the Wichita area are banking on the exciting Shockers team to do well and to go far, way in the tournament.

I must admit that some of the optimism is based on just pure emotion that all sports fans feel about their team, without examining and analyzing other factors that might either support or go against that cause for optimism. The Shockers are playing in the American Athletic Conference (AAC), which has a total of twelve teams, of which the top four will qualify for the playoffs.

But what are the chances of the Shockers going far in this tournament and who are the players that will shine? We will examine how they have done so far and predict where they will end up at the back end of the season.

My daughter's latest design.
My daughter’s drawing.

Early Season Jitters

Up through November 19, 2018, the Shockers have played five (5) games and currently sit at the bottom of the AAC standings with a win-loss ratio of 2-3. All three matches that they have lost have been extremely close encounters with the Shockers lacking the cutting edge to finish off those games.

The closeness of the games are reflected in the overall points that have been scored by the Shockers as opposed to their opponents – the Shockers have scored 362 points in those five games, compared to 374 by the opposing teams. This statistic shows how competitive the Shockers have been in the early season so far without being too successful.

We are hopeful that they will shake off these early season jitters and continue to compete feverishly as the season goes along and hopefully claim some more victories, especially in the close encounters. Please see the data chart below that speaks to the Shockers performance so far in the 2018-2019 season.

2018-19 American Standings

TEAM GB OVR

Tulsa

0-0 – 4-0

Houston

0-0 – 3-0

Temple

0-0 – 5-1

South Florida

0-0 – 4-1

Wichita State’s Markis McDuffie blocks the shot of Catawba’s Daquan Lilly during an exhibition game earlier this season for the Shockers.

Wichita Eagle Pic. and link.

UCF

0-0 – 4-1

U Conn

0-0 – 4-1

Cincinnati

0-0 – 3-1

East Carolina

0-0 – 4-2

Memphis

0-0 – 2-1

SMU

0-0 – 3-3

Tulane

0-0 – 2-3

Wichita State

0-0 – 2-3

The chart  above shows the early stages of the season where most teams have played on average five games, Tulsa and Houston are the only teams with perfect records so far, but they have played four and three games respectively. It is way too early to make a call on which team will dominate; we will have a clearer picture after a few more weeks of competition.

Players To Watch On The Shockers Roster

The Shockers have a pretty young but exciting roster of players. Eight of the players are freshmen, four are sophomores, three are juniors, and two are seniors. The team does not have the experience of recent years, but Coach Greg Marshall has proved that he is a genius at developing talent and we are excited to see how the team will perform throughout the season.

We have identified Markus McDuffie, Ricky Torres, Dexter Dennis, and Morris Udeze as potential star players that can carry the team forward in the 2018-2019 season. There are other great players we may get to in a later article.

Markus McDuffie

Markus McDuffie is one of only two seniors on the team and have been a revelation in the season so far; he currently averages 21.6 Points per game (PPG) after five games in the season, which is the best statistic of any Wichita Shocker forward in the past 20 years.

McDuffie was named in the American Athletic Conference Honor Roll for the week of November 12-18 and was also named co-player of the week in the Conference for the week of November 6-11. He continues to be a shining light for the Shockers, and it is imperative that he keeps flowing in this rich vein of form for the Shockers to continue being competitive throughout the season.

Ricky Torres

Ricky Torres is one of Greg Marshall’s recruits for the 2018-2019 season. He plays as a Point Guard and Marshall expects him to get a lot of game time in the position for the whole season. He was recruited from Missouri State-West Plains where he averaged 17.2 points per game, and 8.1 assists per game, which was the 3rd best nationally for the 2018 season.

He has also been identified as a leader who can motivate the team and help the unit to play at their very best. We look forward to watching Ricky Torres competing for the Shockers this year and expect him to be one of the team’s top players this season.

Dexter Dennis

Dexter Dennis is a Freshman hailing from the town of Baker, California. He is an extremely athletic and mature player that can play the position of small forward or shooting guard. Pundits, including Greg Marshall, believe Dennis has the potential to play in the NBA due to his supreme natural ability.

He has started the 2018-2019 season with a bang, scoring 19 points and grabbing five rebounds in a really exciting game against Alabama. He was one of the key players responsible for the spirited fightback from the Shockers in the second half of that game which almost took them to victory coming from a deficit of twelve points.

For the season so far, Dennis averages 8.8 points per game, has grabbed ten rebounds and has four assists. We are excited to see what his stats will be at the end of the season!

Morris Udeze

Morris Udeze is another exciting prospect hailing from Houston, Texas. He is a Freshman that plays the position of small forward and center. Udeze was ranked among the top 15 prospects in the state of Florida in 2018 by 247 Sports after spending a year at the Montverde Academy in Orlando and ranked 18th nationally among centers.

Udeze is a complete athlete, possessing strength, skill, and athleticism which definitely makes him one to watch in the yellow and black for this season!

Prospects For The Shockers This season

The Shockers lost six outgoing seniors at the end of the 2017-2018 season and are currently rebuilding their team. They have one of the best players in the conference in Markus McDuffie on their team and an extremely talented pool of players overall to provide support.

The team, however, lacks experience playing together and might take some time to gel and play as an efficient unit. However, we expect the Shockers to be extremely competitive throughout the season under the expert tutelage of Coach Greg Marshall.

The Shockers will be a force to be reckoned within the American Athletic Conference (AAC) in 1-2 years, and we will see at least glimpses of this potential all season long. We look forward to watching the Shockers play and as usual, we will be supporting them all along the way!

A More detailed schedule with ways to listen, live stats, and how to buy tickets below:

As of 11-23-2018

  • OVERALL  2-3
  • PCT .400
  • CONF 0-0
  • PCT .000
  • STREAK L 1
  • HOME 0-1
  • AWAY 0-0
  • NEUTRAL 2-2

Scheduled Games

  • NOV 6 (TUE) VS. LOUISIANA TECH—L, 58-71
  • NOV. 9 (FRI) VETERANS CLASSIC VS PROVIDENCE—W, 83-80
  • NOV. 15 (THU) CHARLESTON CLASSIC VS. DAVIDSON— L, 53-57
  • NOV. 16 (FRI) 3:30 P.M. VS. APPALACHIAN STATE—W, 82-76
  • NOV. 18 (SUN) 12:30 P.M. VS. ALABAMA—L, 86-90
  • ——————————————————————————————

NOV. 25 (SUN) 2:00 P.M. COX YURVIEW KEYN 103.7 FM

VS. RICE WICHITA, KAN. CHARLES KOCH ARENA

DEC. 1 (SAT) 7:00 P.M. CBS SPORTS NETWORK KEYN 103.7 FM

VS. BAYLOR LISTEN WICHITA, KAN. CHARLES KOCH ARENA

DEC. 8 (SAT) 11:00 A.M. ESPNU KEYN 103.7 FM

AT OKLAHOMA––OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLA. CHESAPEAKE ENERGY ARENA

DEC. 12 (WED) 7:00 P.M. COX YURVIEW KEYN 103.7 FM

VS. JACKSONVILLE STATE LIVE STATS FOR THE GAME—WICHITA, KAN. CHARLES KOCH ARENA

DEC. 15 (SAT) 4:30 P.M.—TV: CBS SPORTS NETWORK RADIO: KEYN 103.7 FM

VS. SOUTHERN MISS—WICHITA, KAN. INTRUST BANK ARENA—LIVE STATS

 

JAN. 6 (SUN) 3:00 P.M. LIVE STAT

VS. TEMPLE WICHITA, KAN. CHARLES KOCH ARENA

 

JAN. 19 (SAT) 1:00 P.M. CBS KEYN 103.7 FM—

VS. CINCINNATI—LIVE STATS—WICHITA, KAN. CHARLES KOCH ARENA

 

JAN. 26 (SAT) 5:00 P.M. CBS SPORTS NETWORK KEYN 103.7 FM–

AT UCONN—LIVE STATS—STORRS, CONN. —HARRY A. GAMPEL PAVILION

 

JAN. 30 (WED) 8:00 P.M. ESPN2/ESPNU KEYN 103.7 FM—AMERICAN

VS. SMU—LIVE STATS—WICHITA, KAN. CHARLES KOCH ARENA

 

FEB. 2 (SAT) 1:00 P.M. ESPN2/ESPNU KEYN 103.7 FM—AMERICAN

VS. TULSA—LIVE STATS—WICHITA, KAN. CHARLES KOCH ARENA

 

FEB. 6 (WED) 6:00 P.M. ESPNEWS KEYN 103.7 FM—AMERICAN

AT ECU—LIVE STATS—GREENVILLE, N.C. MINGES COLISEUM

 

FEB. 9 (SAT) 7:00 P.M. ESPN2/ESPNU KEYN 103.7 FM—AMERICAN

VS. TULANE—LIVE STATS—WICHITA, KAN. CHARLES KOCH ARENA

 

FEB. 17 (SUN) 12:00 P.M. ESPN KEYN 103.7 FM—AMERICAN

AT CINCINNATI—CINCINNATI, OHIO FIFTH THIRD ARENA

 

FEB. 20 (WED) 8:00 P.M. ESPN2/ESPNU KEYN 103.7 FM—AMERICAN

AT TULSA—TULSA, OKLA. DONALD W. REYNOLDS CENTER

 

FEB. 23 (SAT) 7:00 P.M. ESPN2/ESPNU KEYN 103.7 FM—AMERICAN

VS. MEMPHIS—LIVE STATS—WICHITA, KAN. CHARLES KOCH ARENA

 

FEB. 28 (THU) 6:00 P.M. ESPN/ESPN2 KEYN 103.7 FM AMERICAN

VS. UCONN—LIVE STATS—WICHITA, KAN. CHARLES KOCH ARENA

 

MAR. 3 (SUN) 1:00 P.M. CBS SPORTS NETWORK KEYN 103.7 FM—AMERICAN

AT SMU—LIVE STATS—DALLAS, TEXAS MOODY COLISEUM

 

MAR. 5 (TUE) 8:00 P.M. CBS SPORTS NETWORK KEYN 103.7 FM—AMERICAN

VS. ECU—LIVE STATS—WICHITA, KAN. CHARLES KOCH ARENA

 

MAR. 9 (SAT) 7:30 P.M. CBS SPORTS NETWORK KEYN 103.7 FM—AMERICAN

AT TULANE—NEW ORLEANS, LA. AVRON B. FOGELMAN ARENA

——————————————————————————

  • AMERICAN ATHLETIC CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIP

MAR. 14 (THU)-MAR. 17 (SUN)

AMERICAN ATHLETIC CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIP

My daughter's Wichita State Shocker drawing
My daughter’s Wichita State Shocker drawing.

Go Shocks!

Shocker Man Cave Here

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Christmas Lights in Wichita-Family Tradition

I think we can all agree that a really fun family tradition is taking the kids to see the Christmas lights in Wichita! I love the Christmas season as a whole and everything that goes along with it! Going to see light displays are some of the most cherished holiday memories I have from my early childhood.

Christmas lights in Wichita
Let it snow, let it snow.

I love revisiting those feelings by seeing my own kids enjoy that little part of Christmas wonder. In case you can’t wait any longer to find out, after the next few small paragraphs the list begins!

 

In our home we celebrate the birth of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He is the greatest gift of all, but we also enjoy many other aspects of the holiday in addition to The Reason for the Season. After all, it’s the most wonderful time of year, right!

It should be the case all year long, but this time of year especially is about giving thanks, appreciating and giving to our loved ones, and giving in some way to those we don’t even know. For many of us this time of year is also about remembering loved ones who are no longer with us.

Gingerbread is delicious. Yummy!
I want to eat you, Gingerbread man!

Those cornerstones along with several other pieces, put together a meaningful and complete Christmas puzzle. The tradition and wonder come together to compliment the Christmas Spirit that is all around us and in our hearts.

So grab some cookies, hot cocoa, or even some pie, and enjoy the ride!

 

Like a ticking time bomb, Wichita is going to burst with Christmas cheer after Thanksgiving Day when residential areas will be adorned with tens of thousands of lights to officially launch us into the Christmas season!

From small lighting presentations to complex showings with music, there’s a huge array of jolly entertainment for your entire family.

Here’s a list of a few very popular Christmas lighting displays from Wichita:

A number of light displays in the air capital accept contributions for their efforts and others charge a small fee. Additionally, a number of are in residential areas and are free to drive by.

Christmas Lights in Wichita- Family Tradition
Yummy.

Watch out for signs that show a radio station channel to turn to for music corresponding with the lights.

Santa's elves?
Little elves or little men?

 

 

 

 

 

Hello there.
Hi there.

Drive slowly and watch out for kids and elves!

The Arc’s Lights (Drive thru)

Arc's lights picture
Picture courtesy of the Arc’s lights.

2919 W 2nd St, Wichita, KS 67203—Open November 22 – December 28…..2018 is the 22nd year Anniversary for The Arc’s Lights!A yearly convention in Wichita proceeds with the Arc’s lights. This event is just one of the most significant fundraisers organized by The Arc of Sedgwick County, together with contributions going to funding kids and adults with disabilities.

This event is exceptional particularly since almost all the Christmas light spectacles are made by volunteers working tirelessly to put this wonderful series together every year. The jolly fat man will also be around for photos the very first two weekends of this occasion.

Opening Night: Thanksgiving (Nov. 22nd)—5:30 to 9:00 pm; Donation night Fridays and Saturdays —5:30 to 10:00 pm; $10 Admission nights Sundays—5:30 to 9:00 pm; $10 Admission night

Mondays through Thursdays— 5:30 to 9:00 pm; Donation nights Extended Hours: Dec 19th, 20th, and 23rd, 5:30 – 10:00 pm Then Christmas Eve— 5:30 to 11:30 pm; Donation night

Entrance for The Arc’s Lights is at Douglas Ave and St Paul St. For more info. Click: TheArcsLights

Illuminations at Botanica (Walk thru)  

701 Amidon St, Wichita, KS 67203 (Right past Sim Golf Course) Open November 23 – December 31, excluding Christmas Eve and Christmas Day

Christmas Lights in Wichita- Family Tradition

Come and be involved in Wichita’s largest light exhibition at Botanica Illuminations. No known affiliation with the Illuminati  🙂

 

Gather up and take your family through over 30 enchanted Christmas gardens because it’s possible that you will love their more than 1 million dazzling lights and gorgeous chandelier trees.

 

Illuminations!
Click the picture to visit their site and more of their awesome photos!

Stop and buy some hot chocolate or apple cider, then s’mores or some yummy treats all throughout the displays. Midway through your walk if it’s your thing, wait in line to meet Jolly St. Nich.

There are warming stations along several paths plus the indoor area with music and plenty of seating. And you won’t miss the choreographed show with over 50,000 Christmas lights set to music.

Hours: 5:30 – 8:30 pm

Admission: $7 Kids, $10 Adults, $7 Members

Click for their website

Christmas at the McKinneys’ 

1462 N Coolidge, Wichita, KS 67203

Referred to as the very ideal Christmas light exhibition in Wichita, Christmas at the McKinneys’ is just a typical home where the household takes far from typical pride in their own holiday merriment. Ice crystals

The display remains open to all. Donations are accepted and shared among different charity organizations. Open November 22 – December 31
Hours: Opens nightly at 5:30 pm
Admission: Free

Candy Cane Lane

1021 N Azure Cir, Wichita, KS 67235 Opens November 22 Admission: Free

Candy Cane Lane
Candy Cane Lane picture from their Facebook page.

This west Wichita display of group holiday effort incorporates many homes in one particular neighborhood who are definitely enthused about the Christmas season.

You may want to bring your camera to capture shots like the one above as you go through the whole display, as you can also share photos on their Facebook page.

Lights On TEXAS

11603 W Texas St. Wichita, KS 67209

Santa Claus and wife.
The Christmas Clauses

Formerly Called Lights on Lawrence, their 300,000-light Exhibition has ventured into the west side to preserve its own Cheermeister glory. A wonderful mixture of conventional brightly colored lights.

Several of those displays have a brief history in light shows from around the river city, such as a portion of a massive display at 17th and Park place that stuck around for over 2 decades.

Drop by Lights on Texas on your own Christmas lighting tour. Opens November 22

Hours: Opens nightly at 5:30 pm   Admission: Free

Click here for more info.

Lights on Gold Street

Address: 5336 S. Gold, Wichita, Kansas.

Lights on Gold Street
Nice!

(beautiful pic. from their website)

Jump in the car and listen to 99.5FM to see more than 13,000 lights dancing in sync to some great Yule Tide music. This private light series is available to all the Wheat-land people and it has been around since 2009.

Kick off the celebration at Lights on Gold Street around Thanksgiving and adore the display of lights through the New Year.

Hours of Operation:
Sunday – Thursday: 5:30 PM – 10 PM
Friday – Saturday: 5:30 PM – Midnight

Pictures and Website

Marshall Family Christmas
620 N. Stratford, Wichita, KS

The effort of a single family will pay off as people will be attracted to the joy of The Marshall Family Christmas-lights to east Wichita. With Christmas light displays at to 5:30 pm, drop by once you get off work and listen to 91.7FM to know the music which matches with the lights.

 

The display is absolutely completely free of charge, but all contributions will go to aid the Lord’s Diner along with St. Anthony Family Shelter at Wichita.

Open November 22 – January 6
Hours: Opens nightly at 5 pm
Admission: Free

Christmas Lights at the North Pole Express Substation

1841 S. Glenn, Wichita KS 67213

Drop by the Sub Station for Christmas lights, then meet the Jolly-C.L.A.U.S. Inc. man and feel the enchantment of The Reason for the Season. It’s fun for your entire family!

Here’s the 2018 schedule: Nov. 22-Dec. 23 6-9 p.m. Free  (Donations accepted)

 Nov. 23, 24, 29, 30—Dec. 1, 6, 7, 8, 13, 14, 15, 20, 21, 22, 23. Open at 6 pm.  Closes at 9 pm.  For more info. click here: https://www.clausinc.org/north-pole

 

These are merely some of the extraordinary light displays in Wichita this year.

Feel free to share more places with great lights in or around Wichita. These are just a few that we enjoy. 

Also, we welcome your Christmas memories of any kind that you would like to share! Thanks for visiting our blog and Wichita flag themed clothing store.

Alexa

 

To Comment Or Read Comments Click Here.

 

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Pumpkin Patches near Wichita, KS

Are you on the lookout for pumpkin patches near Wichita, KS? Are you looking for corn mazes, gourds, hay-rack rides, and other fall activities in or around the Air Capital? Well you have come to the right website, my friend!

There are definitely some great pumpkin patches in Wichita KS, but some of the best are right outside the city limits of the river city. Scroll down to see Our Pumpkin Patch Party List!

 

Whether you only want a pumpkin patch in the great ICT, or cool corn mazes in Wichita, KS. We have some awesome choices in this post! Many of these patches have a great variety of pumpkins to select from.

Although, to make it more fun for the kiddos, you’ll of course want to find a place that has additional activities they will really enjoy; such as a corn maze, hay rack ride, or maybe even a spook house for the older kids.

If you are on a tight budget, there are great options to save you money and still have a fun experience picking out a pumpkin and making good memories. After all, a pumpkin from a farm is much cooler and way more fun than picking one up from Dillions or Walmart.

Many pumpkin patches and corn mazes generally open in mid-September. Some opened a bit sooner, but if you are reading after this update, you only have a couple weeks left to hit a patch!

 

So get started planning your fun memories for those little bundles of joy! Trust me when I opine that kids love a hay rack ride! Also, picking their own pumpkin at harvest time is a neat experience for them!

The pumpkin patches presented below offer similar features and activities. This list is not in any particular order.  They are all good choices!

• Applejack Pumpkin Patch- 

10007 SW. Indianola Rd • Augusta, KS 67010

Tuesdays-Fridays 9:00-3:00 (closed Mondays) Saturdays 10:00-6:00 PM Sundays 12:00-6:00 PM

Just outside the East Wichita border, The Applejack Pumpkin Patch kicks off our list because they seem to have all the goods!

 

They have train rides, corn and milo mazes, tractor-pulled hay rack rides, previously picked produce, refreshment stand, picnic area, petting zoo, and too many more fun things to list. After all, this is a blog not a book!

Emoji

 

I will have a link to their website and all the other patches as well, so you can get more information and look at more pictures if you’d like!

The fields at Applejack are filled with those pumpkin treasures! The petting zoo has goats, rabbits, chickens, and fish. You can feed the goats and the fish so be sure to bring some quarters to buy the chum!

Have some refreshments like funnel cakes, slushies, and shaved ice. Families are encouraged to play together in this impressive outdoor, low-tech, farm oriented setting.

Whether you’re interested in a conventional outing in order to find your very own pumpkin or just wanting a local family adventure, this patch has you covered! Have a blast on their zip-line, rat racer, hay forts, and tire swings. Check out their pumpkin cannon and paintball shooting!

There’s plenty of fun for the whole group! We could probably do a whole post just on this place alone.

Dates of operation: Open for fall family fun the last full weekend of September through the end of October.

Admission price

  • $9.00 per person (2 and under are FREE) – pumpkins extra and sold by the pound– market value
  • See website for discount info. on admission.

Most all activities at this patch are included in admission cost, except for pumpkins you buy to take home and pumpkins you destroy in the artillery line!       www.applejackpumpkinpatch.com

• Pumpkins at the Park- Tanganyika Wildlife Park,

1000 S. Hawkins Ln, Goddard, Kansas

Oct.19, 20, 21 and 26, 27, 28 (6-9:30 pm)

Celebrate with kid friendly activities, characters, inflatables, waterfall light show, a 3-D maze, Fire Performers, and last but not least, animals.

Guests of all ages will love watching their performers twirl, throw, and yes, even breathe fire.

A party like Pumpkins at the Park would be incomplete without a lot of pumpkins! Kids of all ages can visit their pumpkin patch to find the perfect pumpkin (pumpkins are an additional charge).

You can’t go wrong with Tanganyika!

Tuesdays-Fridays 9:00-3:00 pm (closed Mondays) Saturdays 10:00-6:00 pm Sundays 12:00-6:00 pm

Cost: $15 Each

http://www.pumpkinsatthepark.com

• Meadowlark Farm Pumpkin Patch– 11249 SW 160th St, Rose Hill, KS 67133 (just east of Wichita, Kansas)

Fall Hours: Wed- Sat, 10 am – 5 pm, Sunday 12-5 pm

This farm is a Pick-Your-Own peach and apple orchard, pumpkin patch, and they sell Hard Cider (Don’t booze and drive).

Snacks, salsas, jams, slushies, ciders, regular pumpkins and mini-pumpkins.

Costs: A tractor/hay rack ride to and from the pumpkin patch costs $3.00 per person regardless of age with a minimum of 5 riders.

If you have less than that you can just hire the whole ride to and from the pumpkin patch for $15.00 (rides every 30 min. or walk the 10-minute trek for free.)

http://www.themeadowlarkfarm.com/ or Facebook: MeadowlarkFarm

• Walters Pumpkin Patch-  10001 NW U.S. Highway 77, Burns, Kansas 66840

In Walters pumpkin patch, pumpkins are available at the store or Farm-stand, Pump-Kin patch-pick Inside the field, a fall festival, train rides, corn maze, child-sized maze, and goat walk.

They have tractor-pulled hay rides, a swaying pillow, gift shop, concession stand, picnic area, face painting exhibition, jumping cushion, pony rides. Did I mention zip-line?

They also have other farm animals grazing about and birthday celebrations available to plan for your kids.

 

Cost: Admission on Mondays through Fridays is $10. On Saturdays and Sundays, pumpkin patch admission is priced at $13.    www.thewaltersfarm.com

• Bergmann’s Corn Maze & Pumpkin Farm 

Wichita’s largest Corn Maze

They have the largest corn maze in Wichita (15 acres). Over 200 fun trivia questions and brain teasers are located throughout their maze. Answer so many correctly and win a free pumpkin. Also enjoy one of our many other attractions when visiting the corn maze:

  • Trailer Rides
  • Inflatables
  • The Mindless Mini Maze
  • Giant Slingshots
  • Movies (FREE)
  • Carnival Games
  • The Two-Headed Copperhead
  • Tractor Tire Swing
  • Tornado Twister
  • Merry Go Cycle
  • Quad Teeter Rider
  • Fun Ball
  • Concessions
  • Pony Rides
  • Petting Zoo (FREE)

visit www.bergmanncornmaze.com

• Klausmeyer Dairy Farm- 8135 S 119th St W
Clearwater, KS, 67026

Price $7.00  for mostly everything (ages 2 and under free)
Klausmeyer Dairy Farm is a fun place with awesomely-nice people!
They have a huge-awesome jumping pillow, pumpkin patch, farmer ninja warrior, hay bale, barrel rides, hay wagon rides, petting zoo, pig races, sorghum maze, barn of fear, corn maze, and zombie paintball.
Saturdays: 

Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze -10 am-7 pm

Day time Zombie Paintball – 10 am-7 pm

Zombie Paintball that’s Glow in the Dark and an

Evening Corn Maze 

7 pm – 10 pm

Sundays: 

Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze – 10 am-7 pm

Day time Zombie Paintball – 10 am-7 pm

Wednesday & Friday Evenings:

(by appointment only)

Zombie Paintball (Glow in the Dark) & Corn Maze

Their last day of the season open to the public is November 4, 2018

www.klausmeyerdairyfarms.com

•Mr. Gourdman’s Pumpkin Patch
3750 S. Dusty Rd
Derby, KS 67037

Close by in Derby, Mr. Gourdman’s Patch has all you need for a fun time at a pretty low price.

Much more than just a patch, they have a corn maze, mulch mountain, hay maze, nature trails, horseback rides, tractor rides, canoes, and you can even fish!

Admission Prices     $7.00 per person
(kids 3 and under free)
$5.00 for Military (show ID)
*** Pumpkins are extra and
are sold by size

More info. at  wichitaspumpkinpatch.com

 

 

• Kansas Maze in Gaeddert Farms- 13209 E. 82nd Ave, Buhler, Ks 67522

September 29-October 27

Fridays 6 pm-10 pm

Saturdays 2 pm-10 pm

Sundays 2 pm-8 pm

Weekdays available by reservation only.

Wow, 20 years and still going strong!

This Kansas maze has pumpkins that are available at the store or Farm-stand, Pumpkin patch-pick inside. They have a location for picnics and also wedding receptions.

Where Getting Lost Has Never Been More Fun!

www.kansasmaze.com

2018 20th Anniversary Corn Maze design

We hope this information helps you decide on a fun time!

Enjoy your loved ones!

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Wichita State Shockers Basketball – A Tradition Of Excellence

 

Whether you are a current or past student of Wichita State University (WSU), some things that you will surely remember are the exploits of Wichita State Shockers basketball.

When you step into the Charles Koch Arena for a game, you will experience the passion and deep-seated camaraderie that will get your adrenaline flowing, creating memories that you will cherish for a lifetime!

The excitement is turned up a notch when the Shockers are playing bitter rivals such as Missouri State, Tulsa, or Creighton. The rivalry between the Shockers and these teams goes way back to the 1930’s and is a fundamental part of the Shockers basketball tradition.

This elite program at WSU started back in 1906 when the name of the school was Fairmont College and has been a part of the school’s sporting tradition ever since.

We will look at some main achievements of the Shockers over the years and also speak to their chances in the upcoming season.

The Wheat Shockers Era

In 1906 when the sporting visionary Willis Bates decided to put a sports program together at Fairmont College, he needed to come up with a name quickly. The fact that most of the students in the school at that time shocked wheat for extra cash during the summer months.

Bates thought that an appropriate name that would represent the college very well would be the Wheat Shockers. This is how the name was borne and all the sports teams at Fairmont College used the new name in all college competitions including basketball and football.

This era is when the tradition of sports began to take shape at the school and laid the foundation for the success that would follow in the next.

The Ralph Miller Era

Ralph Miller is regarded as one of the greatest Coaches in the history of the Wichita State Shockers. His contribution to the development of the game is well documented, during his thirteen year reign from 1951-1964 he presided over 255 victories making him the second most winningest Coach in Shockers history.

His time in charge of the Shockers basketball program also coincided with the playing days of Shockers College Basketball legend Cleo Littleton. Littleton is probably the single most influential player in the history of Wichita State University basketball.

His contribution was so mercurial that even today, Littleton still owns seven Shockers school records including the best average (18.2 points per game) as a freshman. He also scored over 2000 points in his college career – a record that still has not been surpassed.

Cleo Littleton was a trailblazer for African American college basketball players, being one of the first to play in the Missouri Conference. The exploits of the Shockers team led by Littleton and under the tutelage of Coach Ralph Miller led to the construction of a new basketball stadium that could accommodate 9000 spectators.

This stadium was unveiled in 1955 and was known as the Wichita University Field House. It was later renamed the Charles Koch Arena in 2003 after investor Charles Koch provided 6 million dollars towards the redevelopment of the stadium.

Miller also coached the Shockers first consensus All-American Dave Stallworth who achieved the feat in 1964. Ralph Miller is a member of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and is highly regarded as the individual who made the Shockers a force in College basketball.

 

Notable Contributors

After Ralph Miller retired in 1964, he was replaced by Gary Thompson. Thompson presided over one of the most successful seasons in the history of the Shockers when he guided them to a final four finish in the 1964-65 season. Some of his key players were Warren Armstrong and Terry Banton.

Other coaches that contributed significantly to the Shockers development were Harry Miller (1971-78) and Gene Smithson (1978-1987). Smithson led during the years of Cliff Levingston, Antoine Carr (1979-83), and the great Xavier McDaniel (1981-85), nicknamed the X-Man. Also, Coach Mark Turgeon (2000 – 2007) and many others that could be mentioned are all part of W.S.U. blood line.

The Greg Marshall Era

The current Coach of the Shockers Greg Marshall as been in the job since 2007. He has also surpassed the legendary Ralph Miller as the winningest Coach in Shockers history.

One of his major achievements so far includes a final four berth in the 2013-2014 season. The team’s season record of 35-1 in 2013-2014 is one of the best in division one college basketball history. Some of his key players were Ron Baker, Fred VanVleet, and Landry Shamet.

Coach Marshall’s hard charging coaching style and passion for basketball has resulted in a very disciplined culture and consistent performance by the Shockers team. The Shockers topped the Missouri Valley Conference in 2013-14, 2014-15, 2015-16 and 2016-17.

He has raised the bar of the Wichita State Shockers and a final 16 appearance is now a yearly expectation of Shockers fans. Greg Marshall is without a doubt one of the best coaches in Shockers history and he is not finished yet!

Prospect For The 2018-19 Season

The Shockers Team has lost several experienced players and will start the 2018-2019 season with a somewhat new looking team. The doubters say the Shocks will be hard-pressed to replicate the 25 victories they had in the 2017-2018 season and with their lack of experience it will be interesting to see if they make it to the NCAA Tournament.

However, it would be foolhardy to underestimate the tactical genius of Greg Marshall and we will just have to watch and see how the season unfolds. One thing for certain is that the Shockers will compete with passion and in accordance with their excellent basketball tradition! Go Shocks!

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Top Restaurants In Wichita- Delicious!

Nestled in the large, sprawling state of Kansas, there is a city which has delicious cuisine for every kind of food-lover. Welcome to your list of the top restaurants in Wichita. From sizzling steaks to mouthwateringly fresh seafood, you will definitely adore the culinary scene in this beautiful city.

Top Restaurants In Wichita make you smile.
Wichita food makes me happy!

After a long day of visiting the gorgeous sites, walking the historical roads, nature trails, and maybe even buying a Wichita flag shirt from ICT Threads, you may very well be hungry and conflicted from the huge variety of places to eat in this town. Don’t worry – we’ve saved you some trouble in your choosing. Read on to find out about some of the best eateries in Wichita!

There are too many great places to eat here just to narrow it down and call this list the top ten 10 restaurants in Wichita, KS or the best rated restaurants in Wichita, KS. Therefore, we simply call this list some of the top picks!

Wichita Flag with The Keeper of the plains.
The Keeper of Food.

1. Redrock Canyon Grill

If you’re craving a meal of seafood, then Redrock Canyon is the place to go. They specialize in serving amazing combinations of American and Southwestern cuisine; paired with the warm, friendly environment, it is the perfect place to visit with your friends, family, and significant other alike.

Their seafood dishes are the most demanded, but Redrock Canyon Grill also serves a large variety of other items including BBQ ribs, chicken enchiladas, pork chops, shrimp scampi and much more. It is all good at Redrock.

Top Restaurants In Wichita
Good food!

2. Public

Located in the same place as The Brickyard, Public has made a fine name for itself with its freshly collected ingredients and wholesome meals. The restaurant has strong ties with local farmers, from whom they directly collect produce to make delicious contemporary American meals.

Their dishes range from banh mi (slow cooked pork shoulder with sauce, cilantro and a baguette), to garlic fries, Cuban sandwiches, brisket tacos and much more. Public is special for the live music venue, and its location at the bottom floor of a restored warehouse: it’s a perfect place to gather with loved ones.

3. Doo Dah Diner

A comfortable, laid back restaurant whose food is so famous that you may need to make a reservation to get in. Doo Dah Diner always has a line outside their doors and for good reason too; customers rave about their fantastic breakfast meals and are always craving more.

They serve traditional Kansas styled dishes; the bestsellers are Chicken and Waffles and Crab Cake Benedict. Chicken fried steak and eggs and crispy corn beef hash are also very popular on their menu! Please note that Doo Dah Diner only serve breakfast and lunch dishes.

Steaks in Wichita
Yummy!

4. Bite Me BBQ

Like the name says, this place is highly popular for their barbeque! Bite Me BBQ’s signature dish, their smoked prime rib dinner is talked about far and wide by the people in Kansas.

The restaurant was also featured by Kansas Magazine as one of the best restaurants for barbeque in the whole state. Do give a visit if you’re in the mood for a fulfilling barbecue meal or maybe a traditional sandwich.

5. My Tho

Craving Vietnamese food? If that’s your thing, look no further, because My Tho is just the right place for you! They serve traditional Vietnamese cuisine such as the American favorite noodle and beef broth soup (pho) and bahn mi sandwiches.

Vegetarians can indulge veggie and baguette meals and order a soothing iced tea on the side. The food there is affordable and fulfilling and this place fosters a comfortable family environment.

Vegetables
Eat your vegetables!

6. Bella Luna Café

A gorgeous, popular restaurant in Bradley Fair, Wichita. They cater to people of all sorts of tastes – shawarma, lobster and hummus are just three of the many fabulous dishes Bella Luna Café has to offer.

Did you know that they have voted for making the best hummus for 12 years in a row? They also received awards for making the best sandwich and best salad too! The Café’s Mediterranean cuisine is also extremely popular among their customers.

7. Hana Café

Remember me saying that Wichita has the right sort of meal for everybody? Well guess what – this beautiful café serves Japanese/Korean food. Experience the tastes of Korea in the U.S. and try your hand at some delicious spiced Kimchi!

The spicy beef soup or a tempura udon – are both dishes close to every Korean lover’s heart. Talk about “tempura appetizers”, “excellent miso” and “ramen noodle soup.” They have awesome sushi! Yumm!

8. Newport Grill

This restaurant is adored for its beautiful outdoor patio which is located on the water. Take your meal of crab cakes and Baha fish tacos outside to enjoy the food in the open air!

Newport Grill is famous for its American grill routines, and specialized in serving fresh seafood and steak.

Top Restaurants In Wichita
Great soup!

9. Tanya’s Soup Kitchen

Looking for something light and warm? Well then, take a walk to Tanya’a Soup Kitchen. Perfect for vegans, vegetarians and carnivores alike, Tanya serves soups for the soul made from freshly grown local ingredients.

If it is your first time, then be sure to try the flight of soups which is a delicious sampling of the day’s four selections.

10. Fizz Burgers and Bottles

Every great city needs an iconic burger spot; for Wichita, Fizz Burgers and Bottles definitely sets the mark. Enjoy glorious beef patties topped with any add-on you can possibly think of!

Be adventurous and go for a fried egg and avocado, or seek comfort in juicy bacon and cheese. The restaurant has a unique array of signature sauces which will leave you wanting more.

Great Burgers in Wichita
Great Burgers!

What are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Wichita’s food scene now and set out to try these amazing dishes yourself!

Hey, you forgot about _______!

Please comment below!
I know, I know, there are many more places that could be on this list. Comment below about a place (or more) that you think should be listed in my next food post.    
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Kansas State Fair

It’s That Time Of Year Again, Wichita!

The Kansas State Fair is upon us! Aren’t you excited?!? Okay, maybe that’s overstating it just a bit. Nevertheless, you have yet another chance to take your lovely family and friends to Hutchinson’s yearly extravaganza known as The Kansas State Fair.

From fun rides and slides to unique exhibits and demonstrations, there will truly be something for everyone in your group to appreciate. There will be a petting zoo for the kiddos as well as a birthing center where people of all ages can observe newborn calves, lambs, goats, and little piglets. They’re going to have big, beautiful horses, miniature horses, and of course, sheep.

There will be desserts galore, like pies and funnel cakes. Have yourself some traditional American food or live it up and sample all-things-fried; things you didn’t even realize were possible to fry and still be edible (more on that below). The 2018, Kansas State Fair will be from Sept. 7-16

Never Been To The Kansas State Fair?

Maybe you hear the phrase state fair and images come to your mind of cowboys with lassos, banjo-strumming-country-folk, and cow milking contests.

Maybe you then ponder “that’s probably not for me,” Well that is because you are most likely stereotyping some of your fellow Kansans. Not to imply that all stereotyping is inherently wrong, but many stereotypes are definitely incorrect.

While some aforementioned things may indeed occur at a typical state fair such as this, I can assure you that most of those partaking in such activities at The Kansas State Fair, are some of the nicest people you will ever meet. But don’t forget that there are plenty of other activities for you and yours to enjoy at the Kansas State Fair.

There Is So Much To do.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Just as the great city of Wichita has plenty of fun things that we love to do, and some in particular which may be more appealing mainly because they are family traditions; that is also the case for our great state as a whole, when it is Kansas State Fair Time.

In my opinion, every Kansas family should go to the fair at least once.

Whether you go to enjoy the venue for great concerts performed by some world renown bands (see below), in addition to more local musicians; or you go primarily for the reason I have in the past, which was to create fun memories for your family while spending quality time with them.

Of course, you can spend quality time in a thousand different ways, but maybe you just want to do something out of the ordinary.

 

From traditional to more creative competitions of many sorts. Whether it be agriculture, floriculture, or horticulture. That’s a lot of culture people!

If those don’t interest you, there are Photography and other Fine Art competitions, as well as Wood Carving Demonstrations, Japanese Beading Demos, Candle Decorating, China Painting Demonstrations, Fused Glass Demos, and Magic Shows.

For your little science lovers, let them observe Dr. Goddard’s Lab (from The Kansas Cosmosphere also in Hutchinson). Maybe he will blow up something with dry ice! Plus, there are multitudes of free stuff and samples from many varieties of booths and exhibits throughout.

And Now To Name A Few Things That Probably Won’t Surprise You!

There will be “Celebrity Grape Stomping”! I am sure that is very exciting..Not.

Don’t miss The Kansas Arm Wrestling Contests, Shooting Competitions, Pigeon Judging, and a Celebrity Goat Milking Competition! (Oh boy!). See the states’ largest pumpkin. Watch a sheep shearing. Did I mention The Goat Milking Demo?!? There will be pig races AND DON’T YOU DARE FORGET The Great American Spam Championship!!  There are competitions that I didn’t even know existed. And can you say Llama show?!?

                         Okay, maybe a few stereotypes are justified.

Cool Off And Eat Fried Stuff!

Take a break from the heat in the Air conditioned Cottonwood Court (food court). It consists of two levels with well over 20,000 sq. ft. of open floor space combined, and they have plenty of tables and chairs.

From the food court to the many other dining options scattered throughout the grounds, you will have your choice of just about every American food possible.

Sure there will be healthier food options at the fair, but this only happens once a year, so how about trying some Frosted Flake Fried Chicken on a Stick, Fried Candy bars, or a Fried Oreo!

There will also be Fresh Salsa Contests, All-Natural BBQ Sauce Contests, Grilled Cheese Competition, and Bacon Cook-off. Plus, an on site Flapjack Flippin’ Contest. Finally, Homemade Ice-Cream and Topping Contests, and Pies, Pies, and more Pie Contests!

New Attractions for 2018 with a couple of “Must Do Items” for The Kids.

MOO U BARN TOURS

These guided trips through the fairgrounds barns will take about 45 minutes each, and will be available all 10 days of the fair. Tours begin in the Livestock Annex at 10am, 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 4pm, 5pm, 6pm, and 7pm daily, except no 10am tour on Sept. 7

“THE BUTTERFLY EXPERIENCE”

An enclosed butterfly garden, where children and adults can walk among fluttering butterflies and watch caterpillars munch on plants, all while learning about the life cycle of a butterfly. Located at the East side of Lake Talbott. Open 9 am-8 pm daily.

 

TIMBERWORKS LUMBERJACK SHOW

Featuring a variety of lumberjack competitions, such as log rolling, speed climbing, axe throwing, speed carving, hot saw, and springboard chop. Located at Gottschalk Park, show are at 11 am, 1:30 pm, and 6:30 pm daily.

LASER LIGHT SHOWS

On Sept. 7, 8, and 9, The Nex-Tech Wireless Grandstand will light up after each nightʼs concert, thanks to an encore laser light show with music to create a dynamic evening experience for fair goers.

 

 STROLLING ACTS

An energetic band of percussionists, Street Drum Corps, on various items such as buckets and steel barrels, to produce a unique and mesmerizing sound. Also, “Robo Cars” will transform right before your eyes!

 

“KIDDIELAND” 

KiddieLand is home to a variety of new inflatable fun stations. Mazes, a tower of terror, face painting, temporary tattoos, and fun twisted balloons will provide hours of fun for kiddos. Located west of 4-H Centennial Hall.

 

 

AUSTIN ANDERSON & THE TEXAS TRICK RIDERS

Featuring skilled riders and horses in the Bison Arena. Shows at 10 am, 1 pm and 5 pm from Sept. 7-12

There are many other bands and singing groups that are free of charge throughout the week. You can find a list and schedule plus much more through the website link at the bottom of this post.

All paid concerts take place at the Nex-Tech Wireless Grandstand on the fairgrounds in Hutchinson.  

The 2018, Kansas State Fair will be from Sept. 7-16

The grandstand lineup includes:

  • KC and The Sunshine Band, 7:30 p.m. Sept. 7; tickets from $5-10. This disco band came into popularity in the 1970s with such hits as “That’s The Way (I Like It),” “(Shake Shake Shake),” and “Get Down Tonight.” The band’s performance will be the cheapest concert of the fair as well.
  • Dan+Shay with special guest Cassadee Pope, 7:30 p.m. Sept. 8; tickets from $25-$60. Dan+Shay is a country duo. The pair will be accompanied by country pop artist Cassadee Pope, formerly of the rock band Hey Monday.
  • Josh Abbott Band with special guest BlackHawk, 7:30 p.m. Sept. 9; tickets from $15-$45. The Josh Abbott Band, frequent guests at Wichita’s Cotillion, will play at the State Fair on its first Sunday.
  • Demolition Derby, 7:30 p.m. Sept. 10; tickets $7 for ages 13+, free for children 12 and under. As is tradition, the fair will bring back its popular demolition derby on Monday night.
  • Roots & Boots Tour featuring Sammy Kershaw, Aaron Tippin and Collin Raye, 7:30 p.m. Sept. 11; tickets from $25-$45. These three country artists are currently touring as part of what they call the Roots & Boots Tour, which will stop at the fair on Tuesday.
  • For King & Country with special guest Zach Williams, 7:30 p.m. Sept. 12; tickets from $20-$50. For King & Country is a very popular Contemporary Christian music duo from Australia. Their guest Zach Williams is a Grammy winning Christian artist.
  • Bret Michaels, 7:30 p.m. Sept. 13; tickets from $25-$60. On Thursday of the State Fair, the former front man of ’80s hair band Poison will perform many of their greatest hits.
  • Trace Adkins, 7:30 p.m. Sept. 14; tickets from $25-$65. Popular country artist Trace Adkins will visit the fair on its second Friday.
  • The Beach Boys, 7:30 p.m. Sept. 15; tickets from $25-$60. The Beach Boys, one of the most popular groups of the 1960s and ’70s, will perform on the fair’s second Saturday.
  • Outlaw Truck and Tractor Pull, 7:30 p.m. Sept. 16; tickets $12 for ages 13+, $5 ages 5-12, free for children 4 and under.

2018, Midway Rides and Ticket Costs

Daily Hours of Operation

Friday, September 7 Moonlight Madness (Wristband) 3 p.m. – 11 p.m.

Saturday, September 8 Opens at 11 a.m.

Sunday, September 9 Opens at Noon

Monday, September 10 1 Ticket per Ride Noon – 10 p.m.

Tuesday, September 11 (Wristband) 1 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Wednesday, September 12 Ride-O-Rama (Wristband) Noon – 10 p.m.

Thursday, September 13 Ride-O-Rama (Wristband) 3 p.m. – 10 p.m.

Friday, September 14 Moonlight Madness (Wristband) Noon – 11 p.m.

Saturday, September 15 Opens at 11 a.m.

Sunday, September 16 Last Blast (Wristband) Noon – 8pm

2018, Wristband Prices

$30 after August 1

2018, Carnival Ride Sheet – 22 Tickets

$20 through Sept 6

$25 beginning Sept 7

2018, Fairground Rides

Daily Hours of Operation / Prices

Purchase these tickets at the Kansas State Fair Ticket Office

Big Slide 9:00 am – 7:30 pm $2.00 or Package of 4/$7.00

Lake Talbott Boat Ride 9:00 am – 7:30 pm $4.00

Sky Ride 9:00 am – 7:30 pm $5.00 Round Trip

State Fair Railroad 9:00 am – 7:30 pm $3.00

Ye Old Mill 10:00 am – 10:00 pm $3.50

Special Rides For The Kids In The Link Below

Adobe PDF

kids ride

For more info. Go to https://www.kansasstatefair.com

Kansas State Fair

2000 N Poplar St, Hutchinson, KS 67502

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About us

 

Hello and welcome to ICT Threads-Wichita Proud

We hope you love our Wichita themed clothing and accessories. We really appreciate our customers! It is our pleasure to provide you with great products and valuable information about our awesome city and the many things Wichita has to offer its residents and visitors. Wichita has great food, history,  activities, and people!

A Great Place To Grow Up.

My name is David Leierer. I am a proud and thankful father of my daughter (our art designer), Madison Leierer. Without her drawings and assistance, this site would not exist. However, her drawings of Wichita flags barely touch the surface of her skill as an artist. She is a National Art Scholar that has won several awards. For many reasons other than that I am very grateful to be her dad!

I’ve always loved Wichita. I was born and raised here. I have a lot of great memories with “bowling alley friends” playing in one of many arcades as the adults bowled, playing at parks while the adults were on the softball diamonds, and visiting Barnacle Bill’s FantaSea Water Park at least once every summer. Also, I can’t forget to mention the good memories of visiting Joy-land, the river city’s very own little amusement park.

However, most of my wonderful Wichita childhood memories are from my old neighborhood in Orchard Park, where I spent the first eleven or twelve years of my life. I have fervent memories of growing up around that area before, during, and after my grade school years – back in the nineteen-eighties and early nineties.

I enjoyed playing most sports. Although, I was more thrilled about playing hide-and-seek with school and neighborhood friends (only the chase to base version), skateboarding the streets, building dangerous ramps to jump with our bikes and boards (excluding the well crafted ones my dad made us), playing at the park and Orchard Recreation Center, swimming at Orchard Park Swimming Pool, and of course, riding bikes until the street lights came on. Those seemed like such simple times without much for a kid to fear. I myself grew up to be a proud helicopter parent until my daughter was much older 🙂

I loved exploring creation in those early childhood years. We, the kids of the neighborhood, had approximately 5-10 acres of woodland right across the street from my house. It was probably no more than five acres of trees, but it seemed like a square mile to us kids.

We would build forts and the most pitiful tree houses. Those times in “our forest” kept us occupied for hours on end. We caught frogs, toads, turtles, and baby birds. We were really young and didn’t yet know we weren’t supposed to borrow baby birds from their nests or take them home to show mom and dad, okay, Sorry! (FYI: The bird-nappings were when I was 4 or 5 years old)

Most of these memories were similarly experienced by other kids all over America, but those are some important ones of mine here in Wichita.

Passing It On.

Many years later I would again experience some of those magical feelings vicariously through my daughter during her own discoveries of nature’s splendor. In case, you were wondering, I taught her not to touch baby birds in the nest. However, I did lift her up to peek at some quite a few times over the years.

Of all the parenting goals I have had as Madi’s dad over the last eighteen years, one was to ensure she had many occasions to experience most of those childhood wonders. I have always taught her to slow down, unplug, and appreciate the beauty that surrounds her wherever she goes.

I truly believe Madi admires our beautiful Kansas sunsets and sunrises almost as much as I do.

 

We would love to hear about your Wichita memories from your childhood, or as parents in the comments below if you would care to share them.

Our Purpose And Our Goals.

We want to help you find great Wichita themed gear.

Our purpose here is to sell top quality-unique products that are perfect for decorating a den, a kids room, a poolside patio, or clubhouse. Also, our products make great gifts and souvenirs.

We have many Wichita shirts, hoodies, leggings, socks, towels, flags, pillows, tote bags, phone cases, coffee mugs, stickers, and more.

Our other goal here is to spark or re-spark your love for Wichita and the community as a whole. We would also like to educate newer residents on some of Wichita’s history as well, in future blogs.

 

If you ever need a hand or have any questions, feel free to leave them below or email me at david@ictthreads.com and I will be more than happy to assist you. Also, please share some Wichita memories below.

All the best,

David

Please check out our Wichita themed clothing store above.