Together with Advanced Orthopaedic Associates

There are times when you need to visit the ER.

But there are also times when there are better options, like AOA Now Orthopaedic Immediate Care from Advanced Orthopaedic Associates.

If you experience a sudden bone, joint, or muscle injury such as a sprain, strain, broken bone, sports injury, or sudden joint pain, their team can help you get the care you need without the long waits or high cost of the emergency room.

Walk-ins are welcome, and you will be seen by orthopaedic specialists who can evaluate your injury, order imaging if needed, and help coordinate follow-up care in one visit.

AOA Now is open seven days a week, making it a convenient option when injuries happen outside normal doctor’s office hours.

Hidden under Wichita

If you are a native Wichitan, you've likely met our 7' tall green friend and I don't mean Shrek.

Just around the corner from the Keeper of the Plains, the (nameless) Wichita Troll reaches for freedom under a grate.

If you have no idea what I'm talking about, take a seat and let's have a quick chat.

Beginnings

In 2007, there was an overflow pit along the river. It was still functional and would have cost a pretty penny to take out, so what did Wichita decide to do with it?

Lock up a troll. 

Local artist Connie Ernatt sculpted and placed our 200 lb bronze buddy inside this cage, now his home. He's not so much scary, and not so much cute. Some would say he is a slightly evil, taller Yoda. The Troll went through a ​couple different design phases​ based on looks and installation requirements before landing on the current design.

Connie and her husband own ​Diver Studio.​

She has created beautiful bronze statues for Botanica and the Sedgwick County Zoo!

Vandalism

In 2013, our boy was ​viciously attacked by vandals​. They stole his arm and bird skull necklace. 

He was promptly repaired and returned in April 2014, this time with better security.

How to find the Troll

Without cheating, do you know where the troll is? ​

The Troll was locked up along the Ar-Kansas River for nearly 3 months before anyone discovered he was down there. That should give you an idea of how discretely he has been placed.

There is no sign or plaque that points to where the Troll lives. You have to find it on your own. The only hint I'll give is that it's on the north side of the river. Start at the Keeper and keep your eyes peeled.

Many people recommend to go at night to catch the full effect with green lighting.

(Okay fine, if you really want to cheat, ​here you go​).

Although he is locked up most of the time, he does occasionally get to cruise the river as The Captain when the Wichita Wind Surge transform into the ​Turbo Tubs​ for Thursday home games.

Make sure you see him from above and eye to eye for best effect.

Google Reviews

Here are some of the Google Reviews:

A recent youtube video about our friend:

What do you want to see us go deep on in a future deep dive?

Let us know!

Together with Wichita Riverfest

Riverfest Sign-Ups are now open! Riverfest is only 79 days away which will be here before we know it.

This year the party takes place from May 29 through June 6, but you can sign up for many of the events today!

• 5/30 - Fidelity Bank River Run

• 5/30 - 6/5 - Photography Contest

• 6/6 - Pickleball Tournament “Dinks on the River”

• 5/30 - 6/2 - 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament

• 6/6 - Classic Car Show

• 5/31 - Cardboard Regatta

• 5/30 - Cowboy Bathtub Races

There are so many ways to get involved and participate, make this the year you try something new (or continue a tradition)!

Quick Rundown

• WBIT | Charles Koch Arena | 3/30 & 4/1

• Wichita Life Dinner Club | Various | 4/7

• Wichita Riverfest | Downtown Wichita | 5/30 - 6/7