WINTER 2023
www.porchprairiemag.com
It may seem like just a flight, but it is far more than that. Each journey is the culmination of careful planning, flawless execution, and an unbridled passion to provide the best in world-class customer service. It is in each friendly handshake with the industry’s best pilots and it is in the calm that takes over as you settle into your seat aboard a perfectly appointed aircraft, all Owned and Operated by NICHOLAS AIR. From the personalized attention to our commitment to providing the highest quality aircraft to the Most Refined Set of Private Flyers, the NICHOLAS AIR team is solely focused on one mission--- yours. Choose from one of our flexible and cost effective Jet Cards programs and leave the rest to us.
JET CARD PROGRAMS BLUE: Ideal for Members who plan to consistently fly in one particular aircraft model. Members may purchase 30, 60, or 100 hours in the aircraft type of their choice. RISE: A deposit based program designed for Members who plan to utilize our entire fleet with the ability to select the aircraft that best suits their travel needs. Occupied hours are deducted based on the associated hourly rate in each aircraft type. LITE: Designed for Members with more flexible travel plans, offering better hourly rates and many of the same advantages offered by our other Jet Card Programs.
WATCH
NicholasAir.com • 866.935.7771 #NicholasAir All aircraft are Owned and Operated by NICHOLAS AIR. NICHOLAS AIR and INNOVATIVE PRIVATE AIR TRAVEL are registered trademarks ®2023 NICHOLAS AIR. All rights reserved.
Legends of America brought to life yet immortalized
pride in crafting the finest Americana and Foundry Michelangelo takes Western Art Statues.
They are dramatic works of sculptural art that reflect historical characters and wildlife of the Old West. Uncompromising in detail and patina hand finishing, perfect for the most discriminating of collectors.
Presidential American Patriot 32”h x 16”w x 28”d (Bronze)
The Source for the World’s Greatest Fine Art Masterpieces 808 SE Commerce Ave, #120, Battle Ground, WA 98604
Tel: (503) 208-0942
www.foundrymichelangelo.com
THE FALL GETAWAY
Of Your Dreams
Crisp weather. Luxury amenities. High-end accommodations.
TABLE OF CONTENTS 20
PERFECTION BY PARKER BOOT
34
WISDOM WELL-TRAVELED
50
FROM DALLAS TO THE DESERTS
58
HIGHLIGHTS AND INSIGHTS FROM AMERICANANAFEST 2023 By Rebekah Iliff
68
HOLLY JOLLY HOLIDAYS
74
CARING FOR THE KING
82
34
JOHN WAYNE: FOR WHICH HE STOOD By Beka Garbutt
88
THE OUTDOORSMAN'S INHERITANCE By Cameron Kirby
90
BEHIND THE HAT: WENDE KUNKLE AND THE LEGACY OF KEMO SABE
100
DARN TOUGH BIRDS by Edgar Castillo
106
RUNNIING WILD WITH RUNNING W
20
50 58
SideBar 10
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
12
CONTRIBUTORS
14
PAGES
16
FRONT STEPS A Love Letter to Christmas by Abby Carlton
74
18
PLEDGE
128
BACK PORCH Deep Thought by Peder von Harten
90 WINTER 2023
www.porchprairiemag.com
106
MAGAZINE
Spring Summer FALL winter
FOUNDER / EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Peder von Harten
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Todd Malone
ASSOCIATE EDITOR Abby Carlton
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Peder von Harten, Abby Carlton, Rebekah Iliff, Edgar Castillo, Cameron Kirby
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Seth Iliff, Bethany Johanna, Matt Nichols, John "Hutch" Hutcheson, Stephanie Weinreis, Patrick Tracy, Brooke Welgos
NATIONAL SALES Tonie Ellis at tonieellismedia@gmail.com Chris McIntosh at Chris McIntosh chris@piperranchmedia.com or advertising@porchprairiemag.com
TO SUBSCRIBE
WATCH
visit porchprairiemag.com/subscribe Porch + Prairie is published four times a year by Flying V Media, LLC DBA Piper Ranch Media, Oxford, MS 38655. Subscriptions are for one and two years (5 issues per year), Postmaster: Send address changes to P.O. Box 587 Oxford, MS 38655
SUBMISSION GUIDELINES To offer stories and /or photographs to be considered for publication in Porch + Prairie,email them to todd@porchprairiemag.com. Emails should include full contact information. We reserve the right to edit submissions for clarity, brevity and print quality. Porch + Prairie may not be reproduced or photocopied without permission of the publisher Flying V Media, LLC or Piper Ranch Media © Flying V Media, LLC 2021.
Proudly Printed in the USA
SUBSCRIBE ONLINE AT
PORCHPRAIRIEMAG.COM
#PorchPrairieMag • contact@porchprairiemag.com
PORCH + PRAIRIE magazine | WINTER 2023 - 9
LETTER FROM
THE EDITOR Peder von Harten - Editor-in-Chief Dear Friends, I’ve been fortunate to have encountered some incredible people over the course of my life and that’s something that has never been lost on me. In fact, I think about it often, how the runt of the litter from a large family somehow has shared a meal or round of golf or a hunt out west with some really great folks. Some are athletes, some are music artists, some are business luminaries, and yes, sitting back and listening to them talk about their worlds have created some really special moments for me. Some stories I could share, but the best ones should remain between the group gathered around the campfire late at night. Your definition of what “incredible people” might describe may differ than mine and I’ll admit, my definition has shifted over the years. I used to think that backstage access or a pair of tickets left at the ballpark will-call window were what mattered, but nowadays that’s changed. When I look into this issue of Porch + Prairie and the others that came before it, it’s clear that I am much more drawn to relationships with those who are building our future and are meaningfully benefiting our society with their efforts. Sure, they may still be celebrities or athletes or luminaries, but those positions are not what define them to the world. The names of their occupations are replaced by what they are doing for those who they may never meet. People like Chris Dorsey, who is using his platform as a media mogul to educate the next generation on the natural world around them in a fun and engaging way. Or Benjamin Minden (featured in P+P, Fall 2023), who eschewed the typical path of a Harvard MBA and instead devotes his life to helping his fellow veterans learn the vocations of the American rancher. Or frankly any of the folks that we have featured in our pages as they all have left a noticeable fingerprint on the world around them. These people are incredible, by any definition of the word and what they are doing for the future of our country even more so. When you hear their stories, when you see the magnitude of their efforts and the results of that work, you have no choice but to come away impressed. To know how much work goes into their ventures to make them successful is inspiring. Just think, they could have spent all that time and effort purely on themselves and in today’s world, no one would say a word against it, but yet they took their tools, time, and talent to better someone else’s world. That itself is, in a word, incredible. As we’ve gotten to know these new friends, you come away wanting to be a better person and you come away aspiring to do something bigger than yourself. Me personally, I’m taking those steps, and what better time of the year than for you to do the same. With great appreciation,
PvH
MORE PELLETS ON TARGET. ISN’T THAT REALLY WHAT IT’S ALL ABOUT?
Comes in 12ga, 20ga, 28ga, 16ga*, and 410 bore*
EXPERIENCE YOUR BEST SHOT.
TM
DOWNLOAD OUR 2022 CATALOG
*Available upon request
At 18.1 g/cc density, APEX TSS loads really pack a punch. The APEX difference is the amount of tungsten in each pellet - 95% to be exact. Along with 2.5% nickel and 2.5% iron. Pair this with our tungsten grade TPS wad delivering the tightest pattern possible, and you’ll experience more pellets on target than you ever thought possible. At APEX, we take our name and our mission seriously. We meticulously hand load every TSS shell to the industry’s most exacting standards. It’s time to experience wingshooting ammunition that outperforms and out-patterns anything else available today. Shop now at APEXammunition.com
PORCH + PRAIRIE magazine | WINTER 2023 - 11
CONTRIBUTORS Abby Carlton was born and raised in Alexandria, Louisiana, where her and her family never shied away from a road trip or flight to a new city. She loves exploring new places she’s never been before and creating traditions around spots worth returning back to. Whether it’s making someone smile or laugh, or spending a little time out of her day helping others out, Abby is always appreciating the little things that help her choose joy each day. Abby currently lives in Oxford, Mississippi and enjoys traveling to visit her family on the Mississippi Coast and back in Louisiana, which will always be home.
Kevin Martone balances a busy professional life with his passion for the outdoors. A nationally recognized expert in mental health and the Executive Director of a national non-profit, Kevin’s business travels enable him to enjoy the local culture and landscape in states throughout America. From Alaska and the Pacific Northwest, to New England and across the South, Kevin creates opportunities in the outdoors whenever and wherever he can. Kevin spends his personal time hunting, fishing, trail running, and enjoying sunsets with his wife, Sasha, on the dock of their family pond.
Kelsi McKee has been writing poetry and stories since she was old enough to scratch words on paper. She completed her first novel when she was 18 and continues to write while balancing a full-time job in the news industry. Originally from Northwest and a graduate of Texas A&M, Kelsi has enjoyed adventuring across the country and making her way to her current home in South Carolina. Away from pen and paper, Kelsi enjoys her time on the golf course and of course, cheering on her Aggies.
Beka Garbutt is southern born and raised and currently resides in northeast Mississippi. She loves a good view of nature whether from the top of a mountain after a hike or simply admiring the sunset from the front porch. Travel usually takes her to visit family in an effort to maintain her “cool aunt” status with her growing number of nieces and nephews. She believes laughter is the best medicine and is happiest when surrounded by those she loves.
Rebekah Iliff is an award-winning humor writer, author, and entrepreneur raised in the midwest living in the south. She has a knack for turning difficult topics into digestible stories and loves giving people the unexpected laugh. Her work has been featured in publications ranging from Fast Company and Forbes to Weekly Humorist and the Erma Bombeck Blog. She released her first book, Champagne for One, in February 2022. Rebekah’s favorite part of the day is sitting on the back stoop, watching the sunset with her husband and pup. Personal website: rebekahiliff.com IG: @rebekahiliffweaver Book website: ChampageforOne.com
Edgar Castillo is a recently retired law enforcement officer for a large Kansas City metropolitan agency. He also served in the United States Marine Corps for twelve years. Edgar was born in Guatemala, and when his family came to the U.S., his father, a new bird hunter himself, would take Edgar afield in search of roosters and bobs. Edgar’s passion lies in the uplands as he self-documents his travels across public lands throughout Kansas and the U.S., hunting open fields and prairies, walking treelines, & bustin’ through plum thickets, in a never-ending chase to hunt wild birds in wild places. You can follow his adventures on Instagram at @hunt_birdz
Cameron Kirby, a Northwest native, has always had an affinity for the uninterrupted stretches of wilderness calling to those who seek out the unknown. He enjoys time spent hunting, fishing, caving, sailing, and anything else that can be a vehicle to enjoy the outdoors. Cameron has been married for 17 years and as a family man, he knows it’s his responsibility to pass on his respect and deep admiration for nature to his two boys. In addition to the pursuits of a naturalist, he enjoys vintage cars, firearms, a good book, and an even better scotch. You can follow his exploits on Instagram at @tradekraft
PPICK +P
r e t n i W Reads LOST ON PURPOSE: THE ADVENTURES OF A 21ST CENTURY MOUNTAIN MAN
by Patrick Taylor “Lost on Purpose” is the true story of former tech exec Patrick Taylor reinventing himself as a modern-day mountain man. Tired of a life that wasn't working anymore, he chose adventure as a gateway to a new life. In early winter 2013, he walked across the Rockies alone to retrace the historic route of Lewis & Clark through the rugged and remote mountains of Idaho. This book achieved #1 Bestseller status in THREE Amazon categories: Mountaineering, Extreme Sports, & Solo Travel. It's the first of the 'Real-life Adventures of theTexas Yeti'; a unique collection of non-fiction adventures blazing 6 (six) Kindle #1 Bestsellers across 4 Amazon categories... every book spending time as #1 Bestseller in Solo Travel. Each of his offbeat adventures is unique; the antipode of Walter Mitty, Taylor actually lives the lives he imagines.
CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform
14 - WINTER 2023 | PORCH + PRAIRIE Magazine
OTHER PAGES TO PERUSE
THE WATCHMAKER'S DAUGHTER by Larry Loftis
THE BOOK OF CHARLIE:
WISDOM FROM THE REMARKABLE AMERICAN LIFE OF A 109-YEAR-OLD MAN
by David Von Drehle The Watchmaker’s Daughter is one of the greatest stories of World War II that readers haven’t heard: the remarkable and inspiring life story of Corrie ten Boom—a groundbreaking, female Dutch watchmaker, whose family unselfishly transformed their house into a hiding place straight out of a spy novel to shelter Jews and refugees from the Nazis during Gestapo raids. Even though the Nazis knew what the ten Booms were up to, they were never able to find those sheltered within the house when they raided it. Corrie stopped at nothing to face down the evils of her time and overcame unbelievable obstacles and odds. She persevered despite the loss of most of her family and relied on her faith to survive the horrors of a notorious concentration camp. But even more remarkable than her heroism and survival was Corrie’s attitude when she was released. Miraculously, she was able to eschew bitterness and embrace forgiveness as she ministered to people in need around the globe. Corrie’s ability to forgive is just one of the myriad lessons that her life story holds for readers today. Reminiscent of Schindler’s List and featuring a journey of faith and forgiveness not unlike Unbroken, The Watchmaker’s Daughter is destined to become a classic work of World War II nonfiction.
When a veteran Washington journalist moved to Kansas, he met a new neighbor who was more than a century old. Little did he know that he was beginning a long friendship—and a profound lesson in the meaning of life. Charlie White was no ordinary neighbor. Born before radio, Charlie lived long enough to use a smartphone. When a shocking tragedy interrupted his idyllic boyhood, Charlie mastered survival strategies that reflect thousands of years of human wisdom. Thus armored, Charlie’s sense of adventure carried him on an epic journey of the Jazz Age, racing aboard ambulances through Depression-era gangster wars, improvising techniques for early open-heart surgery, and cruising the Amazon as a guest of Peru’s president.
William Morrow
Simon & Schuster
David Von Drehle came to understand that Charlie’s resilience and willingness to grow made this remarkable neighbor a master in the art of thriving through times of dramatic change. As a gift to his children, he set out to tell Charlie’s secrets. The Book of Charlie is a “genuinely original, formula-shattering” (Bob Woodward) gospel of grit—the inspiring story of one man’s journey through a century of upheaval. The history that unfolds through Charlie’s story reminds you that the United States has always been a divided nation, a questing nation—a nation of Charlies in the rollercoaster pursuit of a good and meaningful life.
PORCH + PRAIRIE magazine | WINTER 2023 - 15
Front Steps by Abby Carlton
I
A Love Letter to Christmas
can smell it, I can hear it, I can feel it. The scented candles, the fresh-bakes cookies, the carols, and the cold wind on my cheeks, all because it’s the holiday season---Christmas time is here, and it feels like I can breathe again. I don’t know when in my life I started to love Christmas time as much as I do now; Maybe it was when my sisters grew to just the perfect age to understand the magic of the holiday, or my first time putting up my very own tree in my very own home. This season has always held a special place in my heart, and I feel so moved thinking about the traditions I have with my family and the ones I’ll create as I continue to build my own. The most beautiful thing about the holiday season, to me, is how different it can look for every single person, while we’re all celebrating and appreciating the same meaning of Christmas. This time of year, I really feel like our everyday lives slow down in the best way possible. We’re shopping for gifts for others, we’re driving down long roads full of houses with intricate Christmas lights, and we’re snuggled by the fire drinking the sweetest cup of coffee on a Sunday morning. It’s this season that reminds me to cherish the little moments, and bottle them up to remember forever. I never want to forget the look on my family’s faces, or the laughs shared, as we pull out ornaments one by one while decorating the Christmas tree, telling the story of each ornament, how it became part of the collection, and why it’s special to our family. I want to always remember the smell of breakfast cooking and the sound of the classic songs throughout the house. I even want to cherish the feuds over broken tree lights and accidentally shattered glass ornaments. All of the memories and the traditions are what makes Christmas, Christmas. What I love about Christmas time, and this season we’re in in general, is the extra mile we all go for each other even more than other times of the year. We get so caught up in our own worlds throughout the months, as soon as it turns to Spring and Summer, we’re back to our routine and work lives like we never left. There’s a hustle to the warmer months that I’m sure we can all appreciate to an extent, but to me---there’s nothing like the pace of the holiday months. The twinkle in little ones’ eyes when they hear stories about reindeer and elves, the tracking of Santa’s map on Christmas Eve, and the little chance you have of sleeping in Christmas morning, all bring back that child-like faith and hope for me. Now that we’re
growing up, it’s exciting to know that new traditions can be made every year, and it’s our responsibility to keep them going. With the holiday season comes the end of a calendar year, which can feel pretty daunting to some, but I believe that we can both reflect on the year we’ve just had, at the same time we’re gearing up for a new year ahead. It’s the chance to start over if you need, the opportunity to make changes and grab ahold of who you want to be over the next year. New Year’s resolutions are fleeting, but it’s a beautiful thing that we’re in charge of our own future. We get to say yes, have our “yes year.” We can commit to being a better version of ourselves over the next year, until next Christmas, then we can do it all over again next year, always becoming stronger, healthier, and more confident in who we are. I hope that this Christmas and holiday season, you will spend time with your loved ones, create new traditions, while honoring those you’ve had along the years, and I pray you find the best version of yourself, whether you know exactly who that is, or you’ve been searching for years. Hug your parents, and especially your grandparents, let your people know you love them. The holidays can be the hardest time for some, but with this new year on the horizon, comes a new beginning. The true reason for this season is giving thanks for the love and hope that we have, and pausing our everyday lives to celebrate all that we’ve been given. In this intimidating world we live in, full of media and society telling us what to do and who to be, what we can hold onto are things that will never change. If you need me this holiday season, I’ll be by the fire, under a mound of blankets, with a full mug of black coffee in my hand, reading the latest issue of Porch + Prairie Magazine. Thank you to our readers, our advertisers, and to our friends we’ve met along the way, for letting us tell your story. Our team is eternally grateful for your support these past few years as we’ve grown and learned, and as you’ve done the same with us along the way. We’re glad to be a part of all of your seasons. Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, Happy 2024, we’ll see you in the Spring. All my love,
Abby PORCH + PRAIRIE magazine | WINTER 2023 - 17
18 - WINTER 2023 | PORCH + PRAIRIE Magazine
I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.
PORCH + PRAIRIE magazine | WINTER 2023 - 19
Perfection, by
PARKER BOOT COMPANY
20 - WINTER 2023 | PORCH + PRAIRIE Magazine
Your style • Your fit • Your life • Your story
BLUETHREADPROJECT.ORG By Appointment Only. 32 - WINTER 2023 | PORCH + PRAIRIE Magazine
Wisdom,
Well-Traveled Photos by Dorsey Pictures
PORCH + PRAIRIE magazine | WINTER 2023 - 35
From Dallas to the Deserts How DSC’s Corey Mason Brings the Globe Together
T
here are many reasons to visit Dallas. The Cotton Bowl, the diverse selection of food, great music, and the arts to name a few. But each January, the Big D plays host to tens of thousands of outdoor, hunting, and conservation enthusiasts who come for the annual experience of the Dallas Safari Club convention. Beyond the countless number of opportunities for attendees to interact with their friends and hunting buddies, they get to engage with the wide variety of brands, vendors, and outfitters who have traveled from around the world to be a part of this event. In the span of the weekend, guests can speak with a leather goods retailer from right there in Texas and talk to a hunting guide who makes his living in the African safari. For those who’ve never been, it is truly a spectacle for the entire family to behold. Each year, seemingly more and more children have come in attendance and are able to get up close with exotic taxidermy and interact with true experts in the field. For most of the show’s attendees, the date is circled on the calendar year after year, and one of the large reasons behind that is DSC leadership’s commitment to making it the best hunting and outdoors expo on the planet. At the head of that leadership tree is Corey Mason, Dallas Safari Club’s CEO. A native Texan, certified biologist, and an accomplished hunter himself, Mason understands the importance of the show not just to show off the best products and programs, but to showcase DSC’s importance in worldwide conservation efforts. The key word there? Worldwide. Far from the
halls of the Kay Bailey Hutchinson Convention Center, the efforts of DSC are being felt in small communities in Asia, in the green hillsides of Scotland, and into the villages and outposts throughout Africa. The work being done to preserve the traditions of the hunt, support the millions who rely on our sporting lifestyle, and bring up the next generation of hunters and anglers. As CEO of Dallas Safari Club, Mason’s every day is devoted to these important missions, but it extends past just a professional responsibility. For Mason, it’s personal as well. Like many others who have such great appreciation for the outdoors, he wants to ensure that his family and the future generations of it get the opportunity to do the same. While preparing for this year’s DSC Convention, Porch + Prairie spent time with Corey to discuss the upcoming show and his passion for all things outdoors. One thing, however, is that it is hard to convey through written word alone is how important Mason’s work is for anyone who enjoys the outdoors. The level of conviction that he speaks with is palpable. The amount of thought and effort that goes into his profession is apparent in every word, and whether it is through organizations like DSC, or his seat on the Board of Directors for the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation, you get the quick understanding that this is vitally important to Corey Mason. Beyond that, it’s personal, and because it is, those who are a part of DSC and its annual expo, are getting a level of commitment from the very top of the organization that is a sight to see. The results? Well they speak for themselves.
PORCH + PRAIRIE magazine | WINTER 2023 - 51
BEYOND THE MUSIC BUSINESS
Highlights and insights from AMERICANAFEST 2023
Photo by Seth Iliff
Ishkodé Records and Neon Moon present 8th Fire Sessions at The 5 Spot featuring Crystal Shawanda and Aysanabee.
“T
By Rebekah Iliff
he music business needs artists, but artists don’t need the music business.” These words fell smoothly from producer Steve Jordan’s mouth as he stood on stage at Nashville’s acclaimend Ryman Auditorium to introduce “Legacy of Americana Award” winner Bettye LaVette. His recent collaboration with her resulted in the release of LaVette! —a culmination of her wide ranging skill set spanning disco to R&B to gospel, and featuring guest artists John Mayer, Jon Batiste, and Steve Winwood. At first, his declaration struck me as an easy thing to say, coming from someone who was already successful in the music business;
58 - WINTER 2023 | PORCH + PRAIRIE Magazine
but over the next few days, as I bebopped around Music City immersing myself in the sights and sounds of AMERICANAFEST 2023, his words crystallized, and I was reminded of the artist’s paradox. Artists have no choice but to pursue their art; if it happens to turn into something lucrative, then so be it. You figure out ways to make it work. You take the 9-to-5 job; work nights as a bartender; walk seven poorly-trained dogs a day (sometimes at once), with the end goal of facilitating your precious work. Art, I have come to believe, is synonymous with the word truth. Something else I have learned from first hand experience — to not create, to not reveal the gifts given and the trauma survived, is to somehow deny the most fundamental part of yourself.
Photo by Matt Nichols
68 - WINTER 2023 | PORCH + PRAIRIE Magazine
R
eturning November 18, the annual Holly Jolly Holidays transforms ESPN’s “Best College Town” into a winter wonderland! As the holiday season begins in Oxford, locals and visitors alike will gather to take part in the myriad of festive events and celebrations that make the charming small town a holiday destination. From the ceremonial “Lighting of the Square,” visits with Santa, a 4,000-square-foot ice-skating rink, and the newly launched Peppermint Trail, the holidays in Oxford will give you all the Christmas joy you need! With so many celebrations and activities to take part in, the holiday spirit is infectious here, even warming the heart of the grouchiest Grinch! Be sure to follow this Oxford holiday guide so you don’t miss out on one bit of Holly Jolly Holiday cheer. Lighting of The Square The start of the season is marked by the ceremonial lighting of the canopy of lights and buildings around the Square. This year, join Santa Claus on Sunday, November 19 at 6 p.m. to ring in the holiday season! FOX Business Network’s Small Town Christmas will also be on site to capture Oxford’s small town holiday magic, so be sure to tune in on December 16 when the episode airs. As the Square lights up and is cloaked in a holiday glow, you will feel transported to the set of a Hallmark movie. This tradition truly encapsulates the magic of the holidays, and it is the perfect way to kick off the season!
PORCH + PRAIRIE magazine | WINTER 2023 - 69
PORCH + PRAIRIE magazine | WINTER 2023 - 73
Caring for the King Leadership and Stewardship of an American Icon
W
hen riverboat captain Richard King first put a stake in the ground and called a portion of the South Texas his own, it was out of pure fascination with the land and its surroundings, as well as its vast potential. Even with the lofty dreams of most entrepreneurs, its hard to think that King could have imagined what King Ranch has become today. But becoming the King Ranch of today, the one we all know and admire, was not by happenstance or because it was too big to fail. It stands today as the beacon of American ranching and conservation because of the steady hands of the many stewards over the years who have understood its heritage and were acutely aware of their role in maintaining the brand standard and legacy. King Ranch is far from just the branding that you might see on a truck around town. For nearly 170 years now, the King Ranch has operated as a successful business, with multiple ventures stemming from both its natural resources, its careful use of the land, its ranching prowess, and the ancillary lifestyle brands known for preserving the Western life. Across the 825,00 acres King Ranch is the home of 40,000 cattle, 225 Quarter Horses, and an abundance of game species that attract hunters and leaseholders annually to the Santa Gertrudis, Laureles, Encino, and Norias Divisions that make up the total property. Being at the helm of such an enterprise is a responsibility that requires a wide range of knowledge and talent that is undoubtedly difficult to find. With business units in cattle, energy, natural resources, retail, real estate, and agriculture (to name a few), one must have not just the experience across all those verticals, but also have concrete plans on how all those units must co-exist and thrive. One can’t simply be a cattleman, he must also be a retailer. One can’t be just an oil man, he must also know crops. With each day mandating
the attention be focused on any one of the Ranch’s dealings, perhaps the greatest skill needed is adaptability and agility. And so you have Robert Hodgen, President and CEO of King Ranch, Inc., leading the charge to strengthen the King Ranch brand and ensure its prosperous future for the next generation to enjoy. Just over two years into the role, Hodgen’s professional experience is the confluence of a strong agricultural background, financial background, and educational background. In other words, the exact makeup needed to be at the top of such an historic brand. In talking with Hodgen, the first thing you’d notice is that the magnitude of the brand and its place as an American icon is not lost on him in any way. He knows what King Ranch means to people of Texas and how just the thought of King Ranch evokes a specific feeling. For some, it’s just a piece of ground between Corpus Christi and Brownsville, while to others, it’s the Running W brand emblazoned on a shirt that symbolizes strength and quality. Combined with his professional past and exceptional education (BS, Animal Science from Oklahoma State University, plus an MBA from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania), Hodgen is an avid outdoorsman who understands the Ranch’s conservation programs and can work with the staff to carefully manage the herds of game species like deer and nilgai. In addition to big game species, Hodgen and the team meticulously maintain the Ranch’s quail habitat and population, ensuring that the longstanding tradition of Texas quail hunting remains at the King. Between bird hunts (you have to experience the product, right?) and good times with friends and business associates in the field, Porch + Prairie spent some time with the Indiana native to bring into focus what the Ranch is today, the pressures that come with its stewardship, and how today’s programs help reinforce the brand’s great future for another 170 years and beyond.
PORCH + PRAIRIE magazine | WINTER 2023 - 75
John Wayne... For Which He Stood. By Beka Garbutt
J
ohn Wayne. The name itself has many different associations. For some, it may just be a name embedded in rolling credits after an exceptional film; for others, a familiar face on the screen and shared time with family enjoying those classic western and military films so many know and love; still others think of a patriotic pilar that stood for the ideals that America has held close to her heart; some hear the name and instantly respond with the well-known catchphrases: “Pilgrim,” or “That’ll be the day,” or even “A man ought to do what he thinks is best.” For me, the name John Wayne is as familiar as my own. I was introduced to the actor at an early age by my grandma who instilled in me a love for all good classic movies, but especially those that starred the one and only “Duke.” She introduced me to “Donovan’s Reef,” “Chisum,” and “True Grit;” but her favorite was the best-known classic, “McClintock!” We could quote the best lines and always shared a sigh of contentment as the final credits rolled by. My grandma loves America better than most, I believe, so her appreciation for the actor ran deeper than his on-screen presence. His patriotism drew a level of respect from her. She made sure I listened to his album “America, Why I Love Her,” and I have vivid memories of being in her home with John Wayne’s deep voice declaring his love for America in the background: “From Alaska’s gold to the Everglades, from the Rio Grande to Maine My heart cries out, my pulse runs fast at the might of her domain. You ask me why I love her? I’ve a million reasons why. 82 - WINTER 2023 | PORCH + PRAIRIE Magazine
My beautiful America, beneath God’s wide, wide sky.” My grandma’s influence ensured that John Wayne was high on my list of heroes. I loved his movies and as I got older, I took an interest in learning about the man behind the screen. Who was John Wayne? He was Marion Michael Morrison. Only not really. He was actually born Marion Robert Morrison, but his mother decided to name her second son Robert and, though there is no record of a legal name change, somewhere along the way Marion Robert became Marion Michael. He was the oldest son of Clyde and Mary “Molly” Morrison, born on May 26, 1907, in Winterset, Iowa. The birth announcement in the newspaper stated simply, “A 13-pound son arrived at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Clyde Morrison, Monday morning.” Thirteen pounds that Molly would later say nearly killed her. Winterset, Iowa, was a small farm town that epitomized the “heartland of America” visual. Rolling hills surround the small community and neighbors knew no strangers. It was a modest beginning. Clyde was a pharmacist by trade, but attempted several different business ventures that did not pan out. Finances were tight and Clyde suffered from health problems that eventually forced the family’s move out west where they settled in Glendale, California. He was “Duke.” But Duke was actually the name of the family dog. Marion hated his name; it made him the object of some teasing in school. He was often seen around town with the family dog, “Duke,” in tow and the story goes that boy and dog spent a good bit of time at the local fire station. He refused, however, to tell the fireman what
The Outdoorsman’s Inheritance
Garrett and Ron 88 - WINTER 2023 | PORCH + PRAIRIE Magazine
Behind the Hat: Wendy Kunkle and the Legacy of Kemo Sabe
Photo by Stephanie Weinreis
90 - WINTER 2023 | PORCH + PRAIRIE Magazine
DARN TOUGH BIRDS Written by Edgar Castillo Photos by Jon “Hutch” Hutcheson
T
he weatherman had provided us with an unusually accurate forecast for the second day of the Kansas regular upland bird season. He had rolled the dice and by sheer luck accurately predicted a cold, sunny, and windswept day of blustery temps for our Sunday excursion. Our morning would be focused on the unseasonably dry wetlands for the wily court jester of the uplands. That colorful trickster with its multi-color metallic sheen of mosaic plumage who’s earned the reputation for being difficult to hunt for both hunter and dog. Ringneck roosters are neurotic birds that learn and adapt by the minute during hunting season. They evolve constantly in an effort to just survive the onslaught of orange clad hunters chasing them. Roosters are downright darn tough birds to kill. By days end we would learn just how much ringnecks are determined to survive. Cheyenne Bottoms is the largest wetland within the interior of the United States and a critical stopping point for millions of birds that utilize the Central Flyway. It is synonymous with being a waterfowlers mecca. Duck hunters from across the country venture to this central oasis to shoot ducks and geese. However, this year “The Bottoms” would be void of duck hunters and gobs of floating decoys. Instead, a few of us upland hunters who frequented the area saw the immediate potential after the dismal reports we had seen ALL spring and summer. It was dry to the bone. The once lush and 100 - WINTER 2023 | PORCH + PRAIRIE Magazine
abundant marsh that would fill up with thousands upon thousands of ducks and shore birds needed a new tenant. An over abundance of cattails, tumbleweeds, and fallow fields of various grasses had grown and sprouted up throughout the property. The Bottoms became an open vacancy for pheasants. There have always been pheasants at Cheyenne Bottoms, as we often heard crowing roosters while waiting for that early morning flight of ducks. And on a few occasions chased them in ankle deep water! Heck, I’ve witnessed a pheasant swim to get away. But this time, the entire area was prime real estate for pheasants, and we took advantage of the opportunity to walk areas once filled with water for a chance to shoot some ringnecks. We arrived at Spoonyville. Aptly named for an amazing duck hunt from a couple years prior. Cautious not to make an abundance of noise, as pheasants have hyper-sensitive vision and hearing. Their eyesight is incredible at spotting movement. It’s a safe bet that pheasants can easily spot a hunter wearing orange. And hearing, well we all know they hear us trampling through the grass and brush and maneuver accordingly to sneak around, behind, or through hunters. With non-toxic ammo secured in our vests we stepped off. Three dogs of various sizes scampered out into the sand-colored switch grass. Kyle’s, chocolate-colored German shorthair Blaze, immediately started working the field. He ranged a bit farther than
Running Wild with the Running W
106 - WINTER 2023 | PORCH + PRAIRIE Magazine
STRATEGIC INVESTMENT
BUSINESS ADVISORY
Brands in the Corr Ventures portfolio are able to capitalize on the expertise and structure of the firm by leveraging over 100 years of experience across a variety of verticals—manufacturing, aerospace, luxury goods, media, natural resources, energy, and land, to name a few.
Corr Ventures recognizes that not all brands are seeking investment capital, but that intellectual capital holds a significant value for brands interesting in retaining their equity, but have a desire to seek outside resources to advise on structure, strategy, or exit options.
PRIVATE EQUITY
BUSINESS ADVOCACY
Working capital continues to be one of the biggest factors in creating a sustainable growth plan for most brands, regardless of size. Corr Ventures specializes in assessing the value of those growth programs and performing and completing capital raises, be it for outside investment in non-held ventures, or to infuse financing into wholly owned or majority owned ventures.
Sometimes you just need a voice. A voice that has been there before. A voice that has weight. A voice that has built successful businesses. And a voice that will stand up for you and fight in the interest of fair business. Our strength, and our weight, matters. And when you need it, we’ll be there for you.
manufacturing
aerospace
luxury goods
media
natural resources
energy
technology
land
CORRVENTURES.COM O X F O R D, M S
120 - WINTER 2023 | PORCH + PRAIRIE Magazine
PORCH + PRAIRIE magazine | WINTER 2023 - 121
122 - WINTER 2023 | PORCH + PRAIRIE Magazine
PORCH + PRAIRIE magazine | WINTER 2023 - 123
SportHunter® 1225x
21 LEVELS I 3/4 MILE I DRYTEK® WATERPROOF EXPANDABLE TO 3 DOGS 124 - WINTER 2023 | PORCH + PRAIRIE Magazine
Ne w fo r2 02 3!
Presented By:
November 18 - January 7
Ice Skating, Santa & Holiday Cheer in Oxford, Mississippi visitoxfordms.com/hollyjolly @hollyjollyholidaysoxms
PORCH + PRAIRIE magazine | WINTER 2023 - 125
NEW LOCATION - Our December Premier Auction will take place at our new location in Bedford Texas: 3600 E Harwood Rd. Bedford, TX 76021
Premier Auction History Lives Here
® ®
ROCK ISLAND AUCTION COMPANY
FINE, HISTORIC, & INVESTMENT GRADE FIREARMS
December 8th, 9th & 10th
Well-Documented Elmer Keith's Inscribed Factory Engraved Colt Model 1851 Navy Percussion Revolver with Highly Desirable Raised Relief Steer Head Carved Grip Identified as Originally Owned by Confederate Major R.E. Stratton and Used by Him in the Civil War and the Old West
Historic and Extraordinary Documented Factory Engraved "One of One Thousand" Winchester Model 1873 Lever Action Rifle Ordered by Montana Pioneer and Vigilante Leader Granville Stuart and Inscribed for His Brother and Fellow Pioneer Thomas Stuart in 1875
The
Mac McCroskie Collection
Arthur William Merrifield’s Historic Special Order Winchester Model 1894 Takedown Lever Action Rifle Attributed as a Gift from Theodore Roosevelt’s Nephews During a Western Hunting Trip with Factory Letter
Theodore Roosevelt
The
Greg Lampe Collection
Extraordinary and Historic Theodore Roosevelt Presentation Factory Panel Scene Engraved Third Model Merwin, Hulbert & Co. Army Single Action Revolver in .44-40 Inscribed for Roosevelt's Friend and Ranching Partner William Merrifield with Pearl Grips, J.S. Collins Holster Rig, Roosevelt Presentation Gold Tiffany Pocket Watch, and Extensive Documentation
CATALOG ONLINE NOW WWW.ROCKISLANDAUCTION.COM FOR YOUR COMPLIMENTARY CATALOG CALL 800-238-8022 (REFERENCE THIS AD)
®
ALWAYS ACCEPTING QUALITY CONSIGNMENTS - ONE GUN OR AN ENTIRE COLLECTION! 800-238-8022 or Email: guns@rockislandauction.com Undisputed World Leader for Quality 3600 E Harwood Rd. Bedford, TX 76021 ∙ P: 800-238-8022 ∙ F: 309-797-1655 ∙ info@rockislandauction.com · Fully Licensed Class III Auctioneer Collectable and Antique Firearms
back porch by Peder von Harten
Deep Thought. I spend a lot of time in deep thought, for better or worse. I’ve tried to stop in the past, feeling that too much time thinking would prevent me from being present and enjoying life a bit. For those who are deep thinkers themselves, you know the feeling. You get stuck on a thought and a whole slew of emotions might come into play. Happiness, sadness, grief, anger, excitement, nostalgia, longing. The list goes on forever. From there, thought turns into a form of anxiety that comes with questioning your every move or dwelling on every upswing or downswing. It can be exhausting and entirely overwhelming, so much so that you look in the mirror and want to tell yourself to never go down that rabbit hole again. I’m going the other way. One of my best, or worst qualities depending on how you see it, is that through my work and even some of my personal pursuits, I have a great deal of time that I spend on my own with nothing to do but think. And think. And think. And think. I’ve avoided most of the scientific questions like “why is the sky blue?” and I generally avoid the philosophical “what is the meaning of life?” type stuff, but I do look back a lot on the twists and turns in the road that got me to where I stand at this very moment. There are times when those answers are as clear as mud and that’s ok, it gives me something to think about some other time. But then there are times that the thoughts are so crystal clear it’s like you are reliving something all
over again. These are the moments that I am happy I spend so much time thinking about life, liberty, and that pursuit of happiness. In the past four decades, I have seen some pretty crappy things and stuff I wish I hadn’t endured, but those are far outnumbered by those experiences that I am still humbled to have had, even though at the time they might have felt inconsequential or small. It comes to mind that if I wasn’t so much of a thinker, I might never dust off the old memory of Christmas as a kid, the rainy day forts made from the patio cushions, or the twinkle in a grandmother’s eye when she’d tell us a story or two. No one recognizes the magnitude of those moments when they are living them and all too frequently nowadays, no one stops to look back at them until perhaps it’s too late. I don’t want to be one of those people and while maybe some thoughts and memories I wish would stay hidden, I guess they too serve their purpose for they are those rainy moments that make the sun that much more appreciated. I can’t promise you that it’s all great, but I am pretty certain that unlocking those great memories of the past might help push you toward a more rewarding road ahead. In a season of both reflective thought for the year that’s passed and with hopeful thought for what’s to come, I encourage you to stop and take the time for the deep thoughts that move you. Perhaps to call home, possibly to pick up the pen and write those thoughts down, or maybe even move you to tears. Until then, I’ll be somewhere on the wind, most certainly lost in thought.
Every year, DSC hosts its annual Convention that raises funds for grants in conservation, education, and advocacy. The four-day 2024 DSC Convention is open to the public and will fill over 800,000 square feet with 1,000 exhibitors featuring outfitted hunts, firearms, gear, wildlife art and much more.
Mark your calendars! DSC 2024 Convention – January 11-14