seeing wichita through fresh eyes
Twenty-one years. That’s how long I have lived in Wichita. I was born and raised in the Air Capitol of the World. Good or bad, I have had plenty of time to form an opinion on this city. Growing up I wanted out, out, out of here. My perception was that the city was slow and quiet – no night life, no entertainment and a general lack of appeal to the younger generation. In the short time that I have been with The Chamber, however, my perception has shifted toward the positive.
Did you know that in downtown Wichita, alone, there are more than 14 homegrown restaurants that offer unique dining experiences? Did you know that there are more than 20 drinking establishments that serve home-brewed beer to martinis to eclectic drink selections? After a night on the town you can get your mojo back by grabbing a cup of coffee or juice at more than 15 different java and juice cafes. From my perspective, that’s an impressive list of options!
Aside from our local entrepreneurs, who take such great pride in making our city a better place to live, our city showcases its community pride through the waving of our very own Wichita flag. On June 14, 2017 the Wichita flag turned 80 years old. It was designed by Cecil McAlister, who won $40 for his design. Our flag has its own special symbolism.
- The blue sun symbolizes happiness and contentment.
- Embossed over the blue sun is a Native American symbol for “hogan,” which means permanent home.
- Around the blue sun the red and white rays show the path of freedom to come and go.
Happiness and contentment, a permanent home and the freedom to come and go… all sound like a place I want to be. Throw in a little night life and some cool places to socialize and you have a winning combination. Each day at The Chamber I learn new and exciting things about Wichita. Over the coming weeks you can join me and see the beauty and vibrancy of Wichita that I now see through fresh eyes.
