Hutchinson Magazine Summer 2011 by Sunflower Publishing

Gae McKay’s Whimsical Gambini Circus

A view from above with Wray and Sons

Summer 2011

Cause for Paws

finding “Furever” homes

Summer 2011

$3.00

Meet Hutchinson’s super moms

Hutchinson Volume 04 / Issue 01

Magazine

dear readers, This issue marks three years for Hutchinson Magazine. According to industry standards, three years is what it takes to get past the speed bumps and become a viable publication. In Hutchinson, it’s more than that. When we began Hutchinson Magazine, we saw an opportunity to share touching stories, unique features and local profiles with the community. As I continue to tell potential sources, it’s our way of celebrating the people, places and style of Hutchinson. There is no special formula to that except finding real stories written and illustrated by real people. Richard Shank had the pleasure of working with two legendary, yet polar opposite, businesses in this issue. Brad Davison of Pianos Unlimited gives us the white glove tour of a career in the piano business. From providing restoration and valuable customer service to continuing a legacy his father built, his story will inspire any entrepreneur. Meanwhile, the rough and tough gents from Wray and Sons Roofing give us a glimpse into their 70-plus years of serving customers in the Hutchinson area— and beyond. From their family camaraderie to their family antics, their story is sure to entertain and reassure those with a Wray and Sons roof. Writer Amy Conkling wraps up our Health Nut series after two years of covering exceptionally fit individuals in the Reno County area. This issue she focuses on the HEAL Cooperative, which is helping more people lead healthier lives. Of course writer Patsy Terrell was paw-sitively smitten while writing about Cause for Paws. This unique organization is not only making a difference in the lives of animals, but it has become an example to regional shelters from Denver to Oklahoma. Founder Charles Buckaloo created an important legacy that we are proud to share with our readers. Finally, what makes a better story on family than a story on super moms? After we found three amazing moms, we could hardly wait to share this “Mother Knows Best” feature with our readers. Meet the moms we all want to have! We hope you enjoy this issue and the many more to come. After all, we’re not done celebrating the people, places and style that make Hutchinson unique.

Publisher John Montgomery Advertising Director Leslie Shea Advertising Sales Manager Darren Werth For Advertising Rates and Information

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Hutchinson Magazine | Summer 2011

Contents

Departments

Summer 2011

hutchinson living

6 Room to grow in South Hutch

The Mitzner family finds serenity in a new home

Features

12 Life after the storm Bob and Ruthie Barker rebuild their home after a devastating tornado in 1991

Under one roof

Wray and Sons Roofing maintains its reputation by keeping things in the family

hutchinson businesses 18 Twinkling ivories

Pianos Unlimited stays in tune with customers and a changing musical market

local profiles

30 A Paw-sitive endeavor

Cause for Paws continues to help animals in Hutchinson

34 Tilling for the

neighborhood Hutchinson Community

Garden marks its 31st season

health & fitness

46 Health Nut:

HEAL Cooperative A community initiative takes an active role in building healthier lifestyles

travel ideas

52 Silken strand Infused with the languid

rhythm of the Deep South, Alabamaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seaside shore offers a dreamy escape

The fanciful Gambinis

Artist creates whimsical characters with treasured pasts

family

58 Mother knows best Because they just do

In Every Issue On the Cover

Autumn Schmidt with husky pup, Jasmine. (Photography by Deborah Walker)

Hutchinson Magazine | Summer 2011

2 dear Readers 50 Q&A 64 best Bets

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hutchinsonliving

Room to grow in South Hutch The Mitzner family finds serenity in a new home Story by Amy Bicke l Photography by De bor ah Walke r

ay and Jodi Mitzner wanted a home in a quiet, friendly neighborhood with a spacious backyard and a large finished basement for entertaining. Their biggest need, however, was more space where they could raise their two growing boys. The family had outgrown its two-bedroom, two-bathroom house near South Hutchinson Elementary School where sons Darin, 9, and Kodi, 7, shared a room. Taking the plunge, the Mitzners decided to build the house of their dreams in a new South Hutchinson subdivision—with a little help from city enticements. Since 2008, South Hutchinson has offered property tax rebates and utility credits to those who build new structures or renovate an existing one. “South Hutchinson is a nice place to live,” Jay says. “We decided it was time for us to build.”

Hutchinson Magazine | Summer 2011

The functional and well-appointed home of Jodi and Jay Mitzner is a symbol of the new development in South Hutchinson.

hutchinsonliving

South Hutchinson offerings

Although only the Arkansas River divides South Hutchinson from the big county seat of Hutchinson, the town of 2,400 is its own community. Founded in 1886 by Ben Blanchard—the same man who discovered the area’s salt industry by accident while searching for oil—South Hutchinson boasts restaurants, motels, an elementary school and manufacturing businesses. Like any small town, leaders in South Hutchinson want to see continued growth. City Administrator Matt Stiles says they began offering a 10-year tax rebate on a sliding scale for new or renovated structures, plus utility credits, and waived building permits and inspection fees for new home construction. With the incentive package in place, they began to encourage builders to think about investing in a South Hutchinson subdivision. Government officials approached area contractor Mark Borecky and Jay, who owns Mitzner Bobcat and Trenching, about the project. Jay jumped at the city’s proposal. Amid the planning for the new subdivision, Jay and Jodi decided to take advantage of the opportunity to leave their cramped quarters and build their own home with the help of Mark. These days, more than half a dozen homes are situated around the cul-de-sac subdivision they named Prairie Ridge. Located on a corner lot is the Mitzners’ year-old home, a fivebedroom, three-bathroom, 1,500-square-foot, ranch-style residence designed to fit a young family with children. “The boys before had to share a bedroom,” Jodi says of the previous home. “This couldn’t be more perfect to fit our needs. Everyone now has their own space.” Fit to their style

Mark gave the couple a basic home plan featuring a woodand stone-frame exterior, which the Mitzners altered to match their style. They toured various homes Mark had built over the years where they gleaned ideas and incorporated them into the design for their custom-built home. What resulted was a unique style that Mark says he now uses for other projects. Jodi wanted a space where her family could hang out and an open floor plan on the main level—combining the kitchen, dining and living areas.

TOP Arches and other craftsmanship reflect the collaboration of contractor Mark Borecky and Jodi. ABOVE The Mitzners love their finished basement, complete with a home theater for family night. OPPOSITE TOP As Jodi and Jay began designing their new home, they pulled elements from a number of layouts to best accommodate their family. OPPOSITE BOTTOM The boom in development in South Hutchinson was originally a side project for Jay before they decided it was time to build a larger house and call the area home.

THE DETAILS

Woof

Comrade

Convenience

Décor

Achievement

Jam

Lucky is always eager to get inside

A stuffed pup matches Darin’s love for hunting

A flat-screen TV is set in the cabinetry in the kitchen

Small touches illustrate Jodi’s sense of style

Mark and Jay have become an integral part of South Hutch

With two boys, some things are just going to rock

Hutchinson Magazine | Summer 2011

hutchinsonliving

Summer 2011 | Hutchinson Magazine

hutchinsonliving

the start of South Hutch The story of South Hutchinson is the story of Reno County’s salt industry. It dates back to 1886, when Indiana native Ben Blanchard purchased 280 acres across the river from the county-seat town of Hutchinson. By 1887, the town he called South Hutchinson had become a third-class city, according to South Hutchinson city history. Still, Blanchard wanted a new attraction to get people to his city. Wanting oil, he was convinced there had to be a big supply under the town. Blanchard hired a company to drill a well, but as the days and weeks went by they had no luck. Becoming worried, he dumped a few barrels of oil into the well. The scheme did not work, yet a vein of salt was discovered instead. Blanchard, however, had no interest. 6. 3.

Meanwhile a severe windstorm damaged the town. Blanchard already had spent his investors’ money, leaving no capital to rebuild. The dream crumbled and he fled, leaving businesses and homeowners behind to pay the creditors. Residents, however, didn’t want to see their community become a ghost town. They didn’t give up. Today, South Hutchinson has a number of businesses, from a sale barn and Tyson plant to fast-food restaurants and an outdoor store. It rests on major arteries: U.S. Highway 50 going east and west and Kansas Highway 96, a four-lane road that leads to Wichita. Moreover, it has a population of more than 2,400 people. And salt—which Hutchinson’s economy was built on—was found thanks to a man who ran out of town, leaving folks high and dry. According to a past Hutchinson News story, less than a year after the discovery, a salt-processing plant opened in Reno County. Several salt companies still operate in the county today.

TOP LEFT

Family is important the Mitzners, especially having a place to share.

LEFT The boys have a special game cave inside a converted closet in the

basement.

Hutchinson Magazine | Summer 2011

“I can fix dinner while the boys do homework,” Jodi says of the kitchen’s bar. Meanwhile, a large flat-screen television above the microwave allows them to watch television. She also wanted elegance. The couple’s design includes arches throughout the home, some of which are designed into the walls and doors, as well as the barreled front entrance. A lighted coffered ceiling accents the front living area and its leather couches. The kitchen includes granite countertops, stainless-steel appliances, pendant lighting over the bar and hand-scraped walnut hardwood flooring. After living crunched in a two-bedroom house, the couple made sure each son had his own room. Meanwhile, they designed their master bedroom with plenty of space. The area includes a walk-in closet with custom shelving, but the big draw is the master bath, which features his-and-her sinks and a 5-foot by 6-foot walk-in shower with multiple showerheads on each side. “We decided to take out the tub and put in a bigger shower,” Jodi says. A place for entertaining

While everyday living space was one of their top priorities, the Mitzners also wanted an area for entertaining relatives and friends—a place that fit a 21st century family. On any given evening the finished basement is a bustle of activity. The family can grab microwave popcorn, dim the lights and watch a movie on a 5-foot by 10-foot projector screen. “The theater room is probably my favorite part of the house,” Jay says. “It’s great to come down and watch a game on it.”

“This couldn’t be more perfect to fit our needs. Everyone now has their own space.” – Jodi Mitzner

Other basement features include an exercise room, guest bedroom and bathroom. The boys have their own recreation room—a transformed walk-in closet off the downstairs entertainment area. The boys’ den—complete with a flat-screen television and gaming chairs—serves as the perfect spot to watch a movie or play a video game. When the weather warms, much of the entertaining turns to the backyard, where the boys enjoy swimming in their aboveground pool. “We sit out here all the time,” Jay says, adding that the spacious covered porch is a great place to watch a rainstorm or get out of the sun. Jodi loves the uniquely built house, but the location in a small town was part of what makes it ideal. “South Hutch is a small community but close enough to everything you need to feel like you’re in a bigger town,” she says.

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Summer 2011 | Hutchinson Magazine

hutchinsonliving

Life after the storm

Bob and Ruthie Barker rebuild their home after a devastating tornado in 1991 Story by R ichar d Shan k Photography by De bor ah Walke r

n 1984, newlyweds Bob and Ruthie Barker settled into their comfortable singlestory residence in Willowbrook, just outside Hutchinson. Looking forward to starting married life together, they never anticipated that Mother Nature would one day force them to draw plans for construction of a new home. The morning of March 26, 1991, was a typical day for the couple. Bob rose early for his short trip into Hutchinson to work at Leech Products, a firm he purchased several years earlier. Ruthie planned a golf outing with her friends. By 4 p.m., though, radio and television stations interrupted normally scheduled programming to warn the public of an impending storm forming southwest of Hutchinson.

Hutchinson Magazine | Summer 2011

In the living room of her rebuilt home, Ruthie Barker holds up a doll and picture that illustrate the destruction of the 1991 tornado that took her and husband Bobâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first home.

hutchinsonliving

Shortly after 6:30 p.m., they had both returned home and took shelter in separate parts of the home, which lacked a basement. Bob took cover in a small crawl space. Ruthie, who had survived a devastating tornado 25 years earlier in Topeka, ushered the family dog, Gus, and cat, Samantha, into a walk-in shower only to have the furry feline flee at the last minute. At 6:53 p.m., an F-4 tornado with winds of more than 150 mph hit the Barkers’ living room, leaving behind a few standing walls. As Bob emerged from the crawl space, he was relieved to find Ruthie safe with Gus, but Samantha was nowhere to be found. About a third of the 36 homes in Willowbrook were destroyed or had extensive damage. An inventory of the Barkers’ personal belongings took no more than a few seconds, as all they could salvage was a box spring, mattress, antique rocker and dresser along with several items of clothing and a clock stopped at 6:53 p.m.

“We were planning to remodel the kitchen in our home, and I guess one could say that the tornado did that for us.” – Bob Barker

The following day, Willowbrook was a sea of chain saws and high loaders as emergency crews worked to clear the debris. “We woke up the next morning at the home of a neighbor and felt very numb,” Ruthie says. “I walked around in a daze and don’t even remember what all happened that day.” The Barkers temporary stayed in Hutchinson and eventually found themselves in discussions with Don Stiles, a Hutchinson builder, who would help with the construction of a new home on the same Willowbrook lot. “We were planning to remodel the kitchen in our home, and I guess one could say that the tornado did that for us,” Bob says with a laugh. “I had never wanted to build a home, so I had no idea what type of house we wanted.” In the coming weeks the Barkers began studying various floor plans. In June 1991 ground was broken for a 2,800-square-foot, two-story home with a basement. “We knew that we needed to make a decision on a new home, and it became therapeutic to look through books of different floor plans,” Ruthie says. “We felt blessed that we didn’t have to physically recover from the tornado.” Almost a year after the tornado, the Barkers moved into their new home. “I might call this a Southern home in that the floor plan is very

Hutchinson Magazine | Summer 2011

TOP Bob and Ruthie decided to build their “dream” home on the same Willowbrook lot after the storm. ABOVE The beautiful home is a fusion of Texas style and Southern design, according to Ruthie. opposite page top Rebuilding gave the couple, and others on their block, a sense of closure after the storm damaged nearly everything they owned. bottom LEFT Today they happily take advantage of the new amenities, including a pergola in the backyard overlooking the golf course. bottom RIGHT The couple even incorporated a beautiful outdoor kitchen for entertaining, which they do often.

hutchinsonliving

Summer 2011 | Hutchinson Magazine

hutchinsonliving

common in Texas,” Ruthie says of the three-bedroom, twoand–a-half-bath home. “This home fits us,” says Bob as he relaxes in the living room flooded with sunlight via eight 18-foot windows. Here a pair of mirrors sit atop the fireplace and a Knabe piano, purchased by Ruthie’s father in 1937, is a token antique. The Barkers have traveled the world during their 28 years of marriage and remain active in civic affairs. When they are spending a quiet evening at home, Bob and Ruthie stroll up the winding open stairway to a second-floor loft where they settle into matching recliners positioned in front of a large-screen television. The room is tastefully decorated with keepsakes they’ve acquired during trips through Africa, including several masks and a milk container. Ruthie modestly calls herself a “self-taught artist” and converted one of the second-floor rooms into an art studio. “This is my haven,” Ruthie says while pointing out her paintings that adorn the room’s walls. Her artwork has even been honored at the Kansas State Fair. Although the Barkers spent most of their time planning the home’s interior, they made several changes in the yard, including a row of crabapple trees planted in front of the home. The Barkers, gracious hosts by nature, love to visit with their neighbors and built a backyard pergola for gathering. A visit to the Barker home leaves little doubt that this is the dream home they never knew they wanted. Bob and Ruthie have four children and nine grandchildren and are always happy to host family gatherings at their soon-to-be 20-year-old home. At the end of the day, the Barkers seem happiest not with their beautiful home but with the fact that no one was injured in the tragic event two decades ago. “This is our dream home that is grounded in a community where lots of friends gather,” Ruthie says. “The fury of Mother Nature brings people together to support each other to rebuild our lives and go on.”

THE DETAILS

CAT

CLOCK

A memory rock of the Barker’s kitty that was found after the storm

On the back is the full story of the ’91 tornado

PIANO

MEMORY

The Knabe piano that belonged to Ruthie’s father

A photograph of Ruthie with the family heirloom

safety

HOME

Ruthie points to where she and the animals took cover

This photo shows what was left of the home

Barker tornado oddities Several months after the tornado, State Farm Agent John Corey was playing golf at Prairie Dunes Country Club on a summer afternoon. While on the golf green, he was surprised to see a piece of paper blowing by. After closer examination, he discovered the item was a cancelled check signed by Bob Barker. That tiny piece of paper had blown 12 miles across the city of Hutchinson from the Barker home to Prairie Dunes. Equally as disconnected, the Barkers had resettled into life assuming that Samantha, the family cat, was a victim of the tornado. But 59 days after the tornado, the Barkers drove to Prairie Dunes Country Club for a quiet dinner. While there, they received a call from neighbor Rita Mohr, who lived in Willowbrook. Mohr informed them that Samantha was alive and well and had been found in the basement of her home. Minutes later, the Barkers arrived at Mohr’s home to discover their beloved Samantha—looking thin and causing quite a ruckus inside a pet carrier. In seconds, Samantha turned and saw Ruthie, and the meows changed to gentle purrs.

Hutchinson Magazine | Summer 2011

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Summer 2011 | Hutchinson Magazine

hutchinsonbusinesses

tuned to success

Twinkling ivories Pianos Unlimited stays in tune with customers and a changing musical market

Story by R ichar d Shan k Photography by A aron East

he words flexible, available and nocturnal might best describe the daily workings of Brad Davison and Pianos Unlimited. When a surgeon from the MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston called to schedule his visit to Hutchinson and negotiate the purchase of a piano, Brad was more than happy to provide transportation to and from the Wichita airport. “He walked in the store, took one look and pointed at the piano that he wanted to purchase,” Brad says. “He sat down, played the piano, wrote out a check, and we were on our way back to the airport.” Then there was the East Coast physician who landed at the Wichita airport around midnight on a flight from Boston. Brad unlocked the front door of his business at 1 a.m., and by 3 a.m. the two had agreed on terms for the sale of a piano. “Once the paperwork was completed, the doctor asked if we wouldn’t mind giving him a ride back to Wichita for a 6 a.m. return flight to Boston,” Brad says, knowing he’d be happy to. Not all customers are high-flying free spenders, but many sales seem to produce a good story worth repeating. The beginning Brad, 52, runs a quick check of his records to confirm deliveries of pianos to distant cities including Boston, Atlanta, Seattle and even the Big Apple. There was a time, in our not-too-distant past, when piano stores were common in the state’s medium and larger cities. Today, barely half a dozen remain. Brad cut his Brad Davison continues in his father’s footsteps, working in the piano business as the owner of Pianos Unlimited.

Hutchinson Magazine | Summer 2011

Summer 2011 | Hutchinson Magazine

hutchinsonbusinesses

“Pianos are like people in that they are all a little bit different.” – Brad Davison

Brad took over the operation in 1991 after the retirement of his father, Charles, who remains a regular in the store.

teeth in the piano business as a child while working alongside his father Charles, who was initiated into the business as a Hutchinson teenager in 1956. “I took a job with a local piano store. One day the owner loaded two pianos on a truck, handed me several letters of inquiry from prospective customers, and I was on the road to western Kansas,” Charles says. That evening, the elder Davison returned home behind the wheel of an empty truck after selling both units. It was a major turning point in his life. As of that moment he was, as he says, “hooked on the piano business.” In 1968 Charles purchased Nelson’s Music in downtown Hutchinson, and 23 years later, Brad bought the business from his father. However, at 73, Charles remains a regular in the store. Brad markets two types of pianos, grands and verticals, and his customers can see plenty of both in a showroom floor made up of about 150 units at the business on North Main Street. Brad is also happy to take trade-ins for resell, which has become a bit of a booming business. The high notes A Jackson Hole businessman came calling in search of a Steinway piano. Over the next three years, he ordered five: three designated for his trio of homes, one for his church and even one for his ex-wife. Eddie Sharp, a Brownfield, Texas, piano teacher, first learned about Pianos Unlimited in 1996 when he was in the market for a grand piano. “We visited, and they agreed to deliver a piano to Texas, set it up and, if for any reason I didn’t like the unit, they would return it to Hutchinson no strings attached,” Eddie says. Eddie liked what he saw and was only too happy to refer several of his students to Pianos Unlimited, along with several of the churches in the Brownfield and Lubbock area.

Hutchinson Magazine | Summer 2011

hutchinsonbusinesses

Most customers learn about Pianos Unlimited by surfing the internet. Such is the case with Debbie Mewbourn of Oklahoma City who was searching for a Steinway in September 2010. “I literally purchased a piano sight unseen with the assurance from Brad that if I wished, I could cancel the deal on the day of delivery,” she says. “It was an exceptional experience with fantastic customer service.” Half of his business is split evenly between schools and churches, and the remaining 50 percent is from individuals. All sales include free delivery to anywhere within the continental United States. However, several years ago, Brad made a sale to a customer in Tokyo, who ordered two Steinways plus shipping. More often than not, most deliveries lead to additional sales. A delivery of four pianos to a college in Illinois resulted in three additional sales of grand pianos to staff members at the institution. Revival These days, Brad has diversified his business to include the restoration of pianos, some of which are more than 100 years old. “About 20 percent of our sales are of restored pianos,” Brad says. “Some time ago, we restored an 1859 Steinway piano for the Johnny Carson Theater in Norfolk, Nebraska.” Gary Telleen, who relocated to Hutchinson in 2009 from Arizona, manages the restoration end of Pianos Unlimited. “Restoring a piano is like taking something dead and bringing it back to life, and in most cases it will look better than new,” he says. Restorations may take as long as four months to complete, but that is no problem for Gary, who says he is “hooked” on this type of work. Brad also enjoys the unique business of selling pianos. “A piano is a specialty item in that not everyone has one,” he says. “Then, pianos are like people in that they are all a little bit different.”

top Gary Telleen has restored pianos for Pianos Unlimited since 2009, enjoying the instrument’s intricacies.

MORE INFO Pianos Unlimited 900 N. Main St. (800) 201-4551 www.pianospianos.com

Summer 2011 | Hutchinson Magazine

under roof o

Wray and Sons Roofing maintains its reputation by keeping things in the family Story by Richard Shank

Hutchinson Magazine | Summer 2011

Photography by Aaron East

The old expression “one big, happy family” could describe Wray and Sons Roofing, a Hutchinson business that opened its doors 71 years ago. Today, no fewer than six Wray family members remain involved in the downtown Hutchinson business— adding to its legacy and loyalty. Jerry, 68, Greg, 60, and Cliff, 55, all sons of founder Bernard Wray, run the business with Cliff’s sons Grady, 28, and Dylan, 23. Adam Clark, a nephew of the senior family members, also works in the business. Bernard established the business in 1939 in South Hutchinson before moving to the current location in 1971. His uncle Richard, who was a roofer in Hutchinson during the early 20th century, preceded him in the roofing business. In today’s fast-paced and changing times, less than half of new businesses survive more than five years, and, according to Greg, most roofing companies have a lifespan of less than seven years. But the record shows that the Wrays have exceeded the national average tenfold.

Wray and Sons Roofing keeps it all in the family, From left are, Greg Wray, Dylan Wray, Cliff Wray, Grady Wray, Jerry Wray and Adam Clark.

Summer 2011 | Hutchinson Magazine

Secret to success Aside from a listing in the Hutchinson telephone book, the Wrays opt not to maintain an advertising budget, according to Jerry. When an economic downturn struck Hutchinson and the nation in the fall of 2007, Jerry says they were unaffected. “Since 2007 we have had the four best years in the history of the company,” Jerry says. Weather conditions, including a number of hailstorms, helped increase business. “Also, there was some new construction in the Hutchinson area along with repeat business from previous customers.” The residential and commercial roofing business is hard work, as most days start at sun up and may stretch in the dark of the night. Jerry and Greg no longer climb ladders to fasten the shingles into roofs, but Cliff is on site daily to supervise crews of about 25 employees. Jerry and Greg work in the office to prepare estimates, order materials and perform other duties. Wray and Sons Roofing serves a clientele within a 60-mile radius of Hutchinson. The company will travel to cities outside the normal service area for Hutchinson-based customers, an offer that has taken them to jobs in Kansas City and Topeka. “We do not chase hailstorms,” Greg says with a hearty laugh. opposite The business moved to its current Hutchinson location in 1971 and remains downtown with its iconic sign.

Hutchinson Magazine | Summer 2011

Summer 2011 | Hutchinson Magazine

Hutchinson Magazine | Summer 2011

“The Wray family shows a lot of respect for each other. They are a great family and are very good people.” – Debbie Janzen

An office conversation with the six family members confirms their respect and compatibility as they laugh while telling stories of what all can happen in the day-to-day life of a roofing company. The word “conflict” is never spoken in this business. “We never have an argument,” says Jerry. “We don’t come to work in search of conflicts.” Cliff adds that they all discuss major decisions, and if the discussion does not produce a unanimous vote, it is simply not done. When asked to list any complaints about being in the roofing business, there is a long pause before Jerry speaks up to say government regulations can hinder the normal operation of a business. Reflections Debbie Janzen, the office manager, is not related to the Wrays but has worked for the company for 33 years. “The Wray family shows a lot of respect for each other,” Janzen says. “They are a great family and are very good people.” Longtime Hutchinson businessman Bob Peel reflects on his 30 years of business with the company and his longtime friendship with Bernie Wray. “They are very nice people and do great work,” he says. Several years ago, Peel contracted with Wray and Sons to replace the roof of a 70,000-squarefoot warehouse. He says the job was completed flawlessly. “My dealings with the Wrays are always on a personal basis as I have a lot of confidence in their operation,” Peel says. “I wish everyone that I deal with was that good.”

opposite Robert Norris tars a roof in Hutchinson. Wray and Sons can re-cover just about any roof, and business is booming.

Summer 2011 | Hutchinson Magazine

Tall tales As one would imagine, the company’s long history has produced a few stories worth repeating. “Arriving in Sterling one day for a roofing job, we mistakenly went to the wrong building and were ready to start removing shingles when we realized our mistake,” Greg says. While returning from an out-of-town job, Cliff noticed that his dump truck was on fire and stopped before baling out of the vehicle. After the fire was extinguished, he got in the burned-out vehicle. To his surprise, the engine started, so he drove back to Hutchinson. As Adam was driving a load of shingles to a job near Nickerson, he accidently hit a lever that caused the lift to rise, and in the process dumped a load of shingles on the highway. The Wrays are what one would call good corporate citizens and take pride in giving back to the community, which gave them a start. Jerry serves on the Board of Directors for the Reno County Museum and the Underground Salt Museum while Cliff will soon take the oath of office for another term on the school board for the Buhler Unified School District. During the winter, Adam leaves his day job to serve as head basketball coach for Central Christian School in Hutchinson. The family leaves little doubt that Wray and Sons Roofing is in Hutchinson for the long term. “This is a wonderful community,” Jerry says. Cliff quickly professes a similar point of view. “If it was about money, we would be in Kansas City,” Cliff says. “Hutchinson is where we want to be.”

Hutchinson Magazine | Summer 2011

Summer 2011 | Hutchinson Magazine

localprofiles

A Paw-sitive endeavor Cause for Paws continues to help animals in Hutchinson story by Patsy Te r r e ll Photography by De bor ah Walke r

ause for Paws began with a conversation around Charles Buckaloo’s dining room table. As the thriving nonprofit approaches its five-year anniversary, members know they have touched the lives of thousands of animals. “Cause for Paws is a voice for the animals who can’t speak for themselves,” says founding member Sylvia Griggs. It is also a support group for the Hutchinson Animal Shelter and an advocacy group devoted to ensuring the well-being of all cats and dogs. “We make sure animals are treated fairly,” says Buckaloo. The park

The Hutchinson Dog Park is the most visible outcome of the group’s efforts. At the request of Buckaloo, the city agreed to allocate two acres at 1501 S. Severance St. for the park, with the understanding that funds used to build the park would be raised privately. “I had my mind made up to raise the money, then give the park to the city,” he says. Buckaloo wanted the park to always be open to the public, even after this group of interested people wasn’t around. In the end they were able to create a public-private partnership. It is a city park, technically maintained by the city, but volunteers do much of the work. Buckaloo spends time working there almost every day, and other visitors often pitch in to keep it in good shape. The park has welcomed more than 200 visitors on a beautiful day. “We hope to give people a chance to treat animals more like family,” says Griggs. According to Buckaloo, the park does for dogs what a park does for people: It is a place to socialize, exercise and connect with others. Ardy Alexander is big supporter of Cause for Paws and the volunteer coordinator for STOP. She holds her Yorkie, Cooper.

Hutchinson Magazine | Summer 2011

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“Cause for Paws is a voice for the animals who can’t speak for themselves.” – Sylvia Griggs

Nancy Scott, a city employee and founding member of Cause for Paws, now owns two cats and three dogs, including two that came from the shelter. “This started out being ‘duties as assigned,’ but as I got into it and saw the needs and issues, it became a personal cause—a passion,” she says. The others

The dog park is a visual reminder of people enjoying their pets. However, Cause for Paws members know many animals are not as lucky. “We want people to understand what it takes to be a responsible pet owner,” says Griggs. “They are not disposable. We want the relationship between people and their pets to be good ones.” To help care for animals in need, Cause for Paws has a rescue van to transport animals from Hutchinson to Denver, where strict spay and neuter laws have resulted in a lack of animals available for adoption. In response, at least once a month a volunteer makes the eight-hour trip to Denver with animals eligible for adoption. The van made its first transport on April 24, 2008. Since then the group has logged 37,126 miles to Denver as well as other locations. In that time, 430 dogs and nine cats have been taken to new homes. Some volunteers have even made the trek in their own vehicles. Founding member Donna Hessman says, “To open your life to an animal is a wonderful thing, and Cause for Paws wants all animals to be treated well.”

TOP The Cause for Paws van has made multiple trips to surrounding states to help animals get adopted. ABOVE A group of volunteers and their pets gather at the dog park. They are just a small example of the support Cause for Paws has seen in Hutchinson. inset A shelter puppy waits for his “furever” home.

Summer 2011 | Hutchinson Magazine

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Despite those impressive numbers, members of Cause for Paws will tell you that the real secret to controlling the overpopulation of pets is spaying and neutering. “[It’s] what will have the largest impact on the city as far as pet population,” says Griggs. Additional efforts

The group also operates the Stop The Overpopulation of Pets (STOP) program, which provides requesting owners with grant money to spay and neuter their pets. “Spaying and neutering is the ultimate solution. You cannot adopt out of pet overpopulation,” says Ardy Alexander, who is the volunteer coordinator for STOP. Cause for Paws Board member Jessica Miller says STOP provides “a benefit we’ll feel far into the future.” In the three and a half years Alexander has run the program, she has never turned anyone away for lack of funds. She’ll admit she has relied on friends for donations when grant money wasn’t available. Alexander, like everyone who works diligently at Cause for Paws, is 100 percent a volunteer. “As long as there’s one animal in Hutchinson that isn’t spayed or neutered, we will keep doing it,” she says. Cause for Paws even works with Meals on Wheels, a human services agency, to deliver cat and dog food to participants in the program with animals. Griggs, who owns therapy dogs, is fascinated by the connection between people and animals. She wants to help people keep their animals whenever possible. “For many people, animals are the only connection they have,” she says. Cause for Paws members work on other programs. The group also donated oxygen masks to the Hutchinson Fire Department that will fit cats or dogs. And last year the group was one of 18 nationally to receive recognition and a donation from Purina and Kroger through the Tales for the Pet Lover’s Heart project. Members say the group’s recurring themes are the importance of spaying and neutering and the devotion to animals. Griggs says, “It’s not a right, it’s a privilege, to have an animal. We need to stand up for them because they can’t stand up for themselves.” MORE INFO Cause for Paws www.causeforpawshutch.org (620) 728-2906

Hutchinson Magazine | Summer 2011

LEFT Volunteer Amber

Slankard holds her Pekingese, Miss Queen. BELOW Volunteer Sylvia Griggs with one of her two shelties.

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According to Charles Buckaloo, the park does for dogs what a park does for people: It is a place to socialize, exercise and connect with others.

Brenda and Dan Pace take their puppies to the Hutchinson Dog Park, which was founded by Charles Buckaloo with the help of city officials.

Summer 2011 | Hutchinson Magazine

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Tilling for the neighborhood Hutchinson Community Garden marks its 31st season story by Kathy Han ks Photography by De bor ah Walke r

From left, Beth, Dana and Lona Hinshaw cultivate their plot at the Hutchinson Community Garden. The women return to the garden year after year.

Hutchinson Magazine | Summer 2011

yrating water sprinklers create rainbows in the water spray and morning sunlight at the Hutchinson Community Garden. Nearby, a small boy points to a hill of brown dirt. “Here are my pumpkins,” Ian Zolman says with pride. There is no question in his mind that the tiny seeds he just placed in the ground will soon begin to grow. “I love carving faces in my pumpkins,” he says. The 7-year-old has no way of comprehending how many months it will take before his favorite vegetable grows on the green vines, spreading across the patch of earth, sprouting giant orange pumpkins that he can carve into jack-o-lanterns. But patience is a lesson Ian and his brother Dimitri, 2, will learn this summer while helping their father, Donnie Zolman, at one of the 68 plots that make up the community garden. “My backyard is so tiny. This is 10 times the garden I could have at home,” Donnie says as Ian points out the not-so-straight rows of onions, peas, Brussels sprouts and garlic they’ve planted. This is the Zolman family’s first season at the garden, on the corner of Severance Street and Wall Avenue across from Eastside Cemetery, which has been a growing community resource since the spring of 1980. Bob Neier was Reno County’s horticultural agent during the summer 31 years ago that broke state records for heat and drought. “It was the hottest time you can imagine,” says Bob, who now works for the Sedgwick County Extension Service. But that didn’t deter the Kansas Horticultural Society in Topeka from sending VISTA volunteer Pauline Conner to start a community garden as a public service project in Hutchinson. Land belonging to Eastside Cemetery was available, and the cemetery directors at the time, Leroy and Darlene Spence,

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worked with Pauline to have the city designate it as a community garden. “At the time, Manhattan had a successful garden. And Reno County Extension, working with Kansas State University, partnered with [Pauline] to lay out plots, locate water and develop rules. Every garden needs those,” Bob says. After Pauline established the garden, a committee and chairperson were elected to oversee it. Across the nation, community gardens typically are found at housing developments or in areas where people don’t have backyards to plant a garden, according to Bob. While Hutchinson’s garden is in a low-income neighborhood, people from all economic levels dig in its dirt. “They have a common interest: gardening,” Bob says. A community garden also brings together people from various backgrounds and age groups who can learn from each other. “It takes a lot of people working together to make a community garden grow,” he says. Warren Boman knows this all too well. When he moved to Hutchinson, his small backyard wouldn’t handle much of a garden. He came to the community garden and began with one plot. Over the years, that plot has expanded to five. Now, as the chairman of the community garden, he is proud of the “no vacancy” sign that lets onlookers know this garden is full. This is the second of three seasons that some community gardeners will work with the University of Kansas Life Span Institute at Parsons. They are part of a study examining the effects of participating in a community garden during the summer and offering strategies to make gardening more comfortable and accessible for people, regardless of age or ability. “Participants in the study fill out a short survey and a follow-up survey at the end of the growing season. Gardeners have access to adapted tools and equipment,” says Patty Black Moore, a coordinator with the program that has targeted five community gardens in the state. The goal of the program “is to increase the opportunities for people with health conditions—including problems with bending, lifting, stamina, mobility or disabilities—to garden comfortably,” says Patty. Sara Sack, director of Assistive Technology for Kansans and the Inclusive Community Gardening Project at the University of Kansas Life Span Insitute at Parsons, has seen the effects of Hutchinson’s community garden firsthand.

“It takes a lot of people working together to make a community garden grow.”

– Bob Neier

TOP Donnie Zolman and his son Ian use the garden as a family

activity, and appreciate the large growing space. ABOVE The no vacancy sign at the community garden lets residents

know the 31-year-old garden is full and ready to bloom.

Summer 2011 | Hutchinson Magazine

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Lona Hinshaw and Warren Boman help manage the garden and speak highly of its benefits.

Hutchinson Magazine | Summer 2011

“Not only has this project had a positive impact on the health of the 370 gardeners who have disabilities or health conditions that are participating, reports have been received regarding the increased employment that has resulted from getting to know others in your community and demonstrating good work skills such as dependability, timelines, planning and reliability,” says Sara. “What can be better than access to new friends and fresh produce?” Lona Hinshaw, a retired registered nurse, has worked at the garden for four summers. At the YMCA she is known as the “garden lady” because of the bountiful produce she brings in to share. “That’s what makes it fun—giving it away,” Lona says. “People enjoy it, and they tell me the different ways they fix the vegetables.” She and her daughters, Beth and Dana Hinshaw, have learned their strengths in the garden. Dana is the planner who maps and color codes each year’s garden. Beth is the planter who carefully places each onion bulb 2 inches apart in the furrow. And finally Lona covers the onions with dirt. “I just do what they tell me,” Lona says, reminding Beth to plant only the biggest onion bulbs. “See, she’s really in charge,” Beth says. Several extended families share plots. Lucas Soltow gardens with his two sons and his mother, Teresa Ford. The stay-at-home dad is in his first season at the community garden. He thought it would be a good experience for Camren, 5, and Grady, 2. While the boys’ duties are limited now, Lucas envisions his sons picking vegetables with him midsummer. Cora Jackson, 76, is another teacher at the garden. She could garden at her rural Reno County home but prefers the community garden because of the worked ground, water supply and camaraderie. “You have nice people here,” says Cora as she sprays her English peas. “It helps to have an interest, and to see new life grow.”

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Dimitri Zolman is already in training for when he can help his daddy and big brother turn the soil.

Summer 2011 | Hutchinson Magazine

Artist Gae McKay’s tools of the trade are stored in a kitchen cupboard. One old paring knife, several wooden knitting needles and a box of toothpicks are all she needs to carve the clay faces, hands and feet of her creations known as Gambini & Co. These fanciful characters with soulful eyes, ruddy cheeks and all varieties of whiskers are dressed like court jesters. Each character has been individually carved and decorated by Gae, who lives in Hutchinson. Inspiration

“I grew up on Bela Lugosi movies and always have been fascinated with gypsies, big moustaches and crinkled-faced men,” says Gae. After years of experimenting with different art forms, she found her element in these mixed-media characters. From the moment she pulls off a small chunk of modeling clay, Gae knows she’ll create a gypsy-like character with Old World charm.

Hutchinson Magazine | Summer 2011

athy Hanks Story by K

t h e

Photography by Aaro n East

f a n c i f u l

Artist creates whimsical characters with treasured pasts

Summer 2011 | Hutchinson Magazine

Hutchinson Magazine | Summer 2011

Each one takes on a life of its own, such as E. (Emeritus) Gambini, the “ponderer.” He sits on a papiermâché cube with one leg crossed, his hand to his chin as if he is in deep thought. “He’s the chief ponderer,” says Gae. On the side of his cube, she has written “National Institute of Ponderology.” Half of the Gambini collection has a base or prop, such as a papiermâché crescent moon as a perch or a globe in hand. “The expressions on the faces or posing them will make me think of a certain [story] line,” says Gae. The other half stand alone or can be posed. Her husband, Sandy, often helps with the final details of her artwork. “I enjoy the parallel play that we do in our workshops and her involving me in putting some of the bases together,” he says. One of Gae’s creations had a face that appeared startled, as if he was falling. So she asked Sandy to build blocks and put them together so he would sit atop the tumbling blocks—and suddenly another character was born. Then one day in her kitchen she noticed what appeared to be the face of a bear on a lampshade. Inspired by the shadow, she began creating a bear. Now alongside the Gambinis are bears dressed as jesters. The process

Inside the whimsical world of artist Gae McKay, Gambini figurines prance around while sharing a story that inspired their maker.

No two characters are alike, and Gae creates the tiniest details as she completes each one. “As I shape the ball, I make impressions for the eyes and pinch up the nose,” says Gae, who works with polymer clay. “Once I see the face, I decide on facial hair.”

Summer 2011 | Hutchinson Magazine

Gae considers a Van Dyke beard or may create a different persona with a handlebar mustache. Attached to the head, hands and feet is 19-gauge steel wire, which gives the characters a jointed body. Gae holds up samples of batik fabric to the faces to decide which colors she’ll use for the clothing. “It’s fun to watch the clay, material, ribbons, wire, wood and found objects come together,” says Sandy. “The individual personality of a Gambini or bear then generates a story.” Finally Gae covers the face, hands and feet with a dark stain so the whimsical characters appear aged, like they were just discovered in an old trunk. The history

A native of Hutchinson, Gae moved with her family to Colorado when she was 15 and graduated from high school in Boulder. She went on to Washburn University and earned a degree in accounting. Like many good accountants, she admits to being “a detail person,” which explains why she enjoys the time spent decorating each Gambini. She met Sandy in Topeka. When they first married, they managed a Menninger Foundation home for mentally ill adults. By 1977 they moved to Hutchinson to raise their two daughters, Katie and Annie, around extended family. A woodworker, Sandy built workbenches where Gae can mold, sculpt,

Hutchinson Magazine | Summer 2011

For more information on

Gambini & Co., contact Gae McKay at gaemckay@yahoo.com

No two characters are alike. McKay admits that she begins with the face and lets all the other characteristics and features develop from there.

Summer 2011 | Hutchinson Magazine

make papier-mâché and even sew the clothing for her creations. During retirement she has more time to practice her craft. Impressed by the programs at Hutchinson’s Delos V. Smith Senior Center, she began to take art classes. She also took lessons from local artists Velera Adams and Doug Trowbridge. “Anytime you are around artistic, creative people, it feeds your creativity,” says Gae. While molding with clay is something she learned on her own, she has been inspired by the whimsical paintings of James Christianson. She calls her characters “travelers of distant lands from times long ago.” It takes Gae about half a day to complete each traveler, and she has been making several a week. Gae began making the characters as gifts for her family and friends. “I enjoy the reaction from people when they see them,” she says, adding that the recipients always seem delighted. While it’s difficult for her to think of herself as an artist, others do. “What a talented lady,” says Jo Johnson, who owns Bear Blessings in Hutchinson. “Gae does a great job of capturing the Gambini character; they have feeling. I bought a Gambini for a gift and I can’t give him away.”

Hutchinson Magazine | Summer 2011

Oddly enough, the doctorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office is a popular attraction at the Kansas Kids Museum.

Summer 2011 | Hutchinson Magazine

health&fitness 8 | HEALTH NUT We conclude our series of articles on â&#x20AC;&#x153;health nutsâ&#x20AC;? from Reno County.

These individuals, young and old, seek a healthier lifestyle through many forms of well-being and exercise. Our last installment focuses on the efforts behind the HEAL Cooperative.

Health Nut: HEAL Cooperative A community initiative takes an active role in building healthier lifestyles

Story by Amy Con kli ng

Hutchinson Magazine | Summer 2011

Photography by De bor ah Walke r

health&fitness

everal Hutchinson residents, passionate about health and wellness, are foregoing the typical board meetings and putting their ideas into action. The Reno County Healthy Eating and Active Living Cooperative (HEAL) is in fact that—a cooperative, says community investment officer Kate Van Cantfort. “We’re trying to give those people who are interested in a more active lifestyle some interaction in this community,” she says. “We have to have room for all those interested, not just people who do it as a part of their jobs. We can’t just meet at 1 p.m. during work hours. It has to be different, and we need to reach out to the entire community.” And that’s exactly what HEAL is doing. Meetings are held after business hours with an array of locally grown, healthy snacks. Participants talk with each other, as if they’re lifelong friends, passing along ideas about their shared passion for health and wellness.

“We’re trying to give those people who are interested in a more active lifestyle some interaction in this community.” – Kate Van Cantfort Some meetings end with a collaborative session, while others involve small wellness opportunities, such as a taking a walk along Cow Creek or planting some seeds in a takehome container. To make meetings even more lively and youthful, children are welcome to attend with their parents. Healthy community

HEAL is the result of the Hutchinson Community Foundation’s Fund for Hutchinson, which encourages a continued passion for health and wellness. Community Foundation staff members began to survey the community’s desire for healthy eating and active lifestyles. Three years later, after several planning, design and survey meetings, the HEAL Cooperative had its first public meeting in December and has continued meeting monthly. HEAL is funded through the Nutrition and Physical Activity Initiative of the Kansas Health Foundation. HEAL’s mission is simple: to help Reno County residents live healthier lives. Van Cantfort says community members do this through a number of long-term strategies. These include redefining healthy living, fostering healthy lifestyles and encouraging the production of and marketing and demand for healthy regional foods. “We decided that every major institution that touches on healthy eating and active lifestyles has an influence over the decision makers in this community, and we could all work in the same direction,” Van Cantfort says. “We have a lot of good working people in this community, people who are

Opposite Beatrix Laird colors flowers at a HEAL meeting, where families and community members can join in the effort to create a healthier community. top Amy Crockett helps her daughter Hanna with seedlings. The HEAL Cooperative is also intended to help children learn more about wellness.

Summer 2011 | Hutchinson Magazine

health&fitness

Savanah Benedick, left, and Katie Smith share seeds at a HEAL meeting.

doing great things, but because of busy schedules or being in different parts of the county, [they] may not be able to get connected with others. That’s why we’re here.” Such individuals include Jim French, who works as an agriculture advocacy lead in Partridge and joined the HEAL design team at the request of Van Cantfort. “Helping to build healthy and thriving families and communities is an important part of my life,” says French, who grew up in a farm community and still manages a midsize farm. “I appreciate the importance of being involved in the stewardship of creation. That also means I’m concerned in the way we care for our bodies.” French hopes to help people have access to healthy, locally grown foods and encourage lifestyles that are active rather than passive. “Healthy, active living not only makes us aware of our bodies and the land, but it has the potential to involve us more with our families, communities and neighbors,” says French. Healthy opportunities

Want to get involved?

For more information on HEAL meetings, contact the Hutchinson Community Foundation at (620) 6635293 or find the Reno County HEAL Cooperative on Facebook.

Hutchinson Magazine | Summer 2011

When Hutchinson resident Traci Hansen, who works part-time to market and fundraise for YouthFriends, heard news of HEAL’s kickoff meeting, her interest in community health and wellness piqued. She walked away from the meeting with several ideas, including one to build a partnership with First National Bank of Hutchinson. This partnership, called Climbing the Corporate Stairwell, focuses on wellness opportunities in the workplace. The bank’s main location, which also houses more than 30 other business suites, had the perfect fitness opportunity

in the form of a stairwell. Yet employees and visitors rarely used it due to its difficult access and dismal appearance. That’s where Hansen stepped in. She approached bank leaders with an idea to hire an artist who could paint the walls of the stairwell with picturesque scenes to make it more appealing. She also is toying with a stair-walking program featuring incentives and contests. “Focusing on a healthy and active lifestyle is a statement for the community as a whole. Not only does this project make the building more pleasing for employees and visitors, it is a reminder that little life choices—like taking the stairs over the elevator—can have a profound impact for individuals and for the community at large. HEAL initiatives citywide will be a draw to the area for more young families and businesses,” Hansen says. With the help of a mini-grant provided by HEAL, the plan is coming to fruition. The cooperative recently announced 10 mini-grant winners throughout the community during its April meeting. “This entire cooperative is a win-win for the community,” Hansen says.

The Hutchinson Community Foundation awards more than $17,000 in Healthy Eating and Active Living Cooperative grants. The most recent recipients are: Faith Mennonite Church – Expanding access to the Faith Community Gardens in South Hutchinson. Boys & Girls Club of Hutchinson – Feeding kids and families with a seed-to-snack program, which includes garden plots and family cooking classes. Hutchinson Recreation Commission – Launching a recreational youth running program serving late elementary through middle school students as one of six NYSA pilot programs in the nation. The program aims to encourage a low-cost, lifelong fitness habit. The Boys & Girls Club also received funds to help provide shoes for running program participants. South Hutchinson Police Department – Teaching bike safety and encouraging trail use by families. Includes 100 free bikes and helmets. Emanuel Lutheran Church – Introducing children to healthy eating in conjunction with summer Bible camp activities. Mennonite Friendship Manor – Launching a workplace wellness program that affects employees, residents and the surrounding community. First National Bank – Promoting a healthier workplace and lifestyle by making stairwell use attractive and accessible.

Summer 2011 | Hutchinson Magazine

Q&A

Photography by A aron east

Pastor, teacher, motivational speaker and writer

Andy Addis

ndy Addis is clearly exuding good vibrations in Hutchinson. The motivational speaker and pastor values each and every opportunity to share his leadership and guidance with others. “I like to think of myself primarily as a family man. We center our lives around our family, the church and nudging the world around us in a better direction,” Andy says with sincerity. His work is for the benefit of others, whether it’s done Sunday morning at CrossPoint Church in Hutchinson or during the week when he speaks to schools, businesses and civic groups. Hutchinson Magazine takes a moment to learn more about Andy and how he found himself behind a microphone.

HM: What do you enjoy most

about sharing with people? AA: I love the “aha” moments. There are often

extremely clear nonverbals I can see while speaking when someone gets it! The freedom to drop something that doesn’t work … you can see weights being lifted off their shoulders. The idea to replace the last broken system … you can see eyes brighten with excitement. The discovery of self-worth and personal drive … literally, you can see when hope starts to flicker in someone’s life. HM: How does one find they have a knack for speaking? AA: I spent a couple of years teaching business

HM: What brought you to Hutchinson? AA: Being in Hutchinson is almost like coming

home. Growing up in Great Bend, we would often plan trips to come to the big city of Hutchinson. Prior to moving here I was finishing up my degree in theology at Fort Worth, Texas. Over a period of nearly two years, we talked with the church where we now serve and agreed to come lead this congregation. HM: How did you get into

… Life is too important to live like someone else told you to, and in motivational speaking I have the opportunity to help people hit the reset button on their life. Motivational speaking is important not because it makes people more efficient or helps them accomplish goals, which it does do, but because it helps us remember or discover our sense of purpose.

motivational speaking? AA: I have two real passions in my career: I love to see people grow, and I love to make people laugh. As a pastor, people who visited our church often asked, “Are you like this every weekend?” I guess I didn’t know any better, so I just kept teaching what I knew in ways that seemed to be effective. Several years ago, individuals from our congregation started asking me to show up at different businesses and schools and just “say something encouraging and funny like you do.” Little by little I developed some systematic material on becoming successful, finding potential and managing your life. HM: Why is motivational speaking important in a community? AA: We live in a difficult world. That’s a fact.

Someone needs to start sharing the message that it doesn’t have to be a dog-eat-dog world.

HM: Where do you find your

messages? AA: I base my material on three primary

sources. One, I often find my messages from life stories I observe. A life really well lived is worth repeating and understanding. Two, practicality and common sense are really not as practical and common as you would think. Sometimes restating the obvious and pointing out the common is just what we need to wake up and make some very real and easy changes that give us a huge impact. … Three, probably my primary source of material is the wisdom and instruction I find in the Bible. … It’s still amazing how the biblical principles of a strong work ethic, treating others better than yourself, setting goals larger than you can comprehend and living with great expectation still hold great weight.

and professional speaking at Fort Hays State University and LeTourneau University. From that experience I can tell you this: Some people got it and some people ... need to learn it. George Barna’s research institute once reported that the number two fear of most Americans was death. Number one was public speaking. I think that’s a shame, and I can tell you by experience most people can learn the skills and techniques to be effective, productive communicators. HM: Where do you see Hutchinson in 10 years? AA: I’m no city engineer, but I can only forecast

good things for our community. While the past few years have been tough on the entire country, we have tended to thrive more than many other places I have visited. News of major businesses moving in and positive direction from community leaders tend to make me believe Hutchinson is a great place for our church to continue to thrive and our congregation members to prosper. HM: If you had a magic lamp and three wishes, what would they be? AA: If I had three wishes, I would wish for my

kids to have joy, success and passion for the right things in life (and since it’s a wish, I wish that for your kids too). Second, I’d wish the world could know the hope, freedom and forgiveness I’ve experienced as a follower of Jesus Christ. Third, I’d wish that the most effective diet for every human being included fried foods and ranch dressing ... and that chocolate would build muscle. Interview conducted, condensed and edited by Katy Ibsen.

Hutchinson Magazine | Summer 2011

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620-662-7500 • b u d g e t b l i n d s . c o m / h u t c h i n s o n Summer 2011 | Hutchinson Magazine

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Silken strand Infused with the languid rhythm of the Deep South, Alabama’s seaside shore offers a dreamy escape

story by G lor ia Gale

Photography courtesy of Gu lf Shor es an d Or ang e B each Tou r ism

oe in. Without the slightest flinch, the Gulf of Mexico’s warm tide comes up to greet you. Never mind the chilly surf you may have encountered on other seasides; AlaG bama’s coastal ripples are crystal clear and ulf Sh Ora ore and tepid. nge s T B There’s no need to rush when perusing this laidgulf ourism each sho back 130-mile U-shape byway surrounding Mobile res.c Bay. The beauty of this area lies in its dunes, bogs om and bays, inland farms and small Southern towns. It’s a place where nature is celebrated. Alabama’s Gulf Coast obliges visitors graciously. No crowds, no hustle—just miles of scenic views and natural assets fringed with talcum-soft white beaches.

Hutchinson Magazine | Summer 2011

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Summer 2011 | Hutchinson Magazine

travelideas Estuarium seeks to highlight the four key habitats of coastal Alabama: Mobile Tensaw River Delta, Mobile Bay, Barrier Islands and Northern Gulf of Mexico. The facility, the fourth largest in the United States, showcases plants, animals and natural resources with touch tanks and living marsh walks. Day 2 - Salt air, sand dunes and sea life

Day 1 - Coastal connections

On the drive down to Dauphin Island, a barrier island in the Gulf of Mexico approximately 14 miles long and just under 2 miles wide, a must stop is Bellingrath Gardens. This 65-acre estate features elaborate gardens showcasing an explosion of colorful plantings, including camellias in winter, azaleas in spring, roses in summer and chrysanthemums in autumn. Fifteen miles south you’ll find the Dauphin Island Audubon Bird Sanctuary designated by the National Audubon Society as an Important Bird Area as part of a global effort. This is the most significant 164 acres of pristine woodlands, marshes, swamps, pine forests, dunes and freshwater lake on the island. With more than 350 species of birds that routinely visit, the sanctuary is the largest segment of protected forest on the island. Each spring, neotropical migrant birds make their first landfall here after their long flight across the gulf from Central and South America. Refresh with a picnic lunch at the Dauphin Island Beach Pavilion before heading to the Estuarium at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab. The sea lab is Alabama’s only marine science education and research laboratory. Through visual and interactive exhibits, the 10,000-square-foot

Hutchinson Magazine | Summer 2011

Start your morning by taking an hour to explore Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge, a 7,000-acre wildlife habitat where coastal marshes meet scrub forest. The refuge has been designated as one of Alabama’s Ten Natural Wonders. You’ll have time to walk the Jeff Friend Trail, a 1-mile boardwalk, or the 4-mile Pine Beach Trail that leads to 32 miles of sugar white beaches, which are the place to see nesting sea turtles. Let nature come to you and relax on the beach or charter a cruise from one of the numerous marinas at Orange Beach. On these fishing or scenic sails, you’ll see the extensive back bays teeming with wildlife. Be on the lookout for resident wild bottlenose dolphin, a favorite sight on these tours. A must see in the afternoon is Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, one of only 27 designated reserves in the country. The unique ecosystem found along Alabama’s coastal reserve provides sanctuary for waterfowl, marine life and breeding grounds for many species of ocean fish. Meander along two boardwalks at Weeks Bay Reserve, which encompasses more than 6,000 acres of land and water. Be sure to visit the interpretive center housing a live animal room and indoor exhibits. End the afternoon in the charming village of Magnolia Springs nestled along the Magnolia River. Under a canopy of ancient gnarled oak trees, this Mayberry-like town settled in l800 offers a glimpse of old-fashioned Southern hospitality amid its quaint boathouses and shady lanes. Defined by the river, Magnolia Springs boasts the only river route mail delivery in the continental United States. These two days offer a pleasant, unhurried view and, like the tide, your stay along this diverse, relaxed coastal area can ebb and flow at will. As you travel the shoreline and surrounding communities, leave the hubbub behind. Check into the outdoors and give nature a chance to guide you. Alabama’s gentle coast waits.

travelideas Places to eat along the coastal byway: The Grand Hotel Marriott Resort, Golf Club & Spa Point Clear, Alabama (251) 928-9201 www.marriott.com Magnolia Court Restaurant Foley, Alabama (251) 970-5400 www.thehotelmagnolia.com Southbeach Bar & Grill at the Beach Club Gulf Shores, Alabama (866) 348-9112 http://thebeachclub.spectrumresorts.com/

Summer 2011 | Hutchinson Magazine

travelideas Vacation Planning Starts Here

Bellingrath Gardens and Home www.bellingrath.org Dauphin Island Audubon Bird Sanctuary www.dauphinisland.org/bird.htm Estuarium at Dauphin Island Sea Lab www.disl.org Bon Secour National Wildlife Refuge www.fws.gov/bonsecour Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve www.weeksbay.org Magnolia Springs www.townofmagnoliasprings.org

Hutchinson Magazine | Summer 2011

family Super mom Ellen Losew shoots hoops and carts around kids when sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not in the doctorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s office curing sick kiddos.

Mother knows best Because they just do

STory by Amy Con kli ng Photography by Shawn Fr e e man

Hutchinson Magazine | Summer 2011

family

others are the first to wipe away the tears, to kiss the boo-boos, to give hugs and kisses no matter what the age. And Hutchinson moms go above and beyond their motherly duties to give their children life-enhancing experiences—one day at a time. Here’s a look at three of them. Career Mom: Dr. Ellen Losew

Ellen Losew jokes that she sees everyone else’s kids more than she sees her own. As a pediatrician at the Hutchinson Clinic, hundreds of kids and parents come in and out of her busy office. It’s sometimes a difficult balance between home and work, but she knew it would be when her oldest son Jace was born six weeks prematurely—only hours before she took her medical board exams. “Ultimately, I’m a mother before a doctor,” Ellen says. “Thankfully I work with other people to adjust my schedule when necessary so I can attend school events and soccer practice pickups.” Jace, who turned 11 on Mother’s Day, leads the Losew children with younger brother Jack, 7, and sisters Joselyn, 6, and Jessa, 2. Ellen and her husband, Steve, who is able to stay at home to balance the hectic life of four children and a doctor for a spouse, have been married for 15 years. “Steve sacrifices so much so I can work,” Ellen says. “He does most of the home stuff. We’ll balance laundry and housework, but he does a lot of it—along with building things, refinishing the rooms, shuttling the kids back and forth and more.” Life for Ellen revolves around her faith, as well as transporting kids to school, tutoring and soccer practices (sometimes at least four days a week). “I’ve learned not to sweat the small stuff, and all of it is usually small stuff,” Ellen says. She plans out meals in the Crockpot and creates a chore chart for her kids on the iPad. And at 4:30 a.m., when the kids and Steve won’t wake up for at least another two hours, she hits the pavement and runs with a group of fellow physicians. When she’s not balancing the ins and outs of the day, Ellen and her husband work to influence their children with lessons in discipline and values. “We want to model Christ’s love to our kids and teach them the values of forgiveness, honesty and kindness,” Ellen says. “It takes a lot of hard work.”

TOP From left, the Losew brood, Joselyn, Ellen, Jessa, Jace and Jack. ABOVE Ellen works with kids and families on a regular basis as a pediatrician, but makes it a priority to find time for her family. LEFT Patient Jack Voth gives Dr. Losew a checkup.

“I’ve learned not to sweat the small stuff, and all of it is usually small stuff.”

– Ellen Losew

Summer 2011 | Hutchinson Magazine

family

Philanthropist Mom: Tona Turner

ABOVE Tona Turner, executive director of United Way, will be the first to admit that raising a teenager can be fun. Her son, Justin, often joins her in volunteering and giving back to the community. LEFT When it’s time to cheer, Tona is Justin’s top fan on the court.

Hutchinson Magazine | Summer 2011

Tona Turner seems to be in the know when it comes to volunteering in the area. As executive director of United Way of Reno County, she usually is one of the first ones to know the community’s needs. She also strives to be one of the first to help meet those needs with her 16-year-old son, Justin. Tona, a single career mom, had Justin and moved from the corporate world of New York City to be closer to family in Kansas. When she took her job with United Way five years ago, she didn’t know the influence it would have on her only child. “It just sort of happened,” she says of passing on her volunteerism to Justin. “At this point, my hope is that I provide him with experiences that are different than his own life but also allow him to use his natural talents.” Tona did just that six years ago, when she took Justin on a mission trip to Juarez, Mexico, where they helped build homes with 50 other Kansans. He was only 10 at the time, but Justin says it still affects him. “I saw for myself how people in Third World countries live,” Justin says. Having his mom head United Way offers a perspective on life in Hutchinson too. In recent years he has tagged along with his mom during United Way’s Annual Community Work Days. He also helps with youth sports, coaching a fifth- and sixth-grade YMCA boys’ basketball team and announcing youth football games. He tries to assist elderly neighbors by raking their leaves or shoveling snow when he’s not busy with his sophomore year in high school and extracurricular activities. “I’m able to see what’s going on in the community more and where the needs are,” he says. “I want to do my part to make a difference in the community.” Like mother, like son. “I’m glad that he’s exposed to these life experiences,” Tona says. “They can be life-changing.”

family

“It’s hard work being a parent and even harder aspiring to be an excellent parent.”

– Jillian Miller

Stay-at-Home Mom: Jillian Miller

Jillian Miller clearly remembers going to her friends’ houses when she was in grade school and falling in love. “They all had big families, and I just loved how busy it was,” Jillian recalls. “It was just my sister and me growing up, so I knew from the time I was in grade school that I wanted a big family.” Fast-forward 20 years, and the 29-year-old is living her dreams. Jillian married her high school sweetheart, Kevin, at the young age of 20. Months after celebrating their first anniversary, they welcomed their first child, Grant, who’s now 7. Nineteen months later, sister Ella, now 6, joined the family. And from then, it was off to the races. Jillian gave birth to Anna, now 4, followed by youngest son Griffin, now 2. The three redheads and one blonde, Grant, complete the young Miller family’s hustle and bustle. “It’s definitely chaotic, but we knew that it was going to be when we wanted our kids so close together,” says Jillian. Now the chaos increases as Jillian graduates from Hutchinson Community College’s nursing program in May. She hopes for a job as a maternal/ infant nurse; but more importantly, she hopes the transition doesn’t affect her family too much.

inset Ella, Jillian Miller’s second oldest in her pretty pink bedroom, is 6 years old. ABOVE Jillian, with Anna and Griffin, is a mom, wife and student surviving the great balancing act.

Summer 2011 | Hutchinson Magazine

family Jillian and Kevin’s parents live close by and gladly watch their grandchildren as often as they can. Jillian’s sister lives down the street and helps carpool, and their grandmother offers to watch the children while Jillian juggles classes and Kevin balances his work as a financial advisor at Wedel, Thurman and Hall. The adjusted schedule won’t stop them from participating in their regular family activities. Each summer the Millers head to Salt City Splash Aquatic Center, take various leisure arts classes and spend time at the public library. During the school year, the girls take dance lessons while Grant plays flag football and other sports. “We do the best job we possibly can to let them enjoy their childhood and instill all moral values,” Jillian says. “It’s hard work being a parent and even harder aspiring to be an excellent parent. Jillian helps her oldest child, Grant, with his homework after a long day.

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june-aug 2011

june June 8-12 | Kansas High School Rodeo State Finals. Teenagers from

across the state gather in Hutchinson to show off their skills in everything from barrel racing to bull riding. Events take place at the Kansas State Fairgrounds. (620) 459-6577, www.khsra.net.

June 9-12 | All Shook Up. The Family Children’s Theatre presents a musical filled with iconic Elvis Presley tunes. 7:30 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, 3 p.m. Sunday. Adult tickets $10 and children tickets $5. (620) 662-7469, www.familychildrenstheatre. com.

June 14 | Women’s Golf Classic. Get your golf clubs ready for a four-woman

scramble Women’s Golf Classic sponsored by TECH at Highlands Golf Club. $100 entry fee includes snacks, beverages and prizes. 8 a.m. registration, 9 a.m. shotgun start. (620) 663-1596, www.techinc.org.

June 18 | 18 for Buddy. The sixth annual golf tournament to benefit the James “Buddy” Bryant Memorial Scholarship Fund will take place at Carey Park Golf Course. Golfers check in at 8 a.m. with a shotgun start at 8:30 a.m. Deadline for registration is June 12. (620) 665-7182.

June 19 | Dads Get in Free. Celebrate Father’s Day by taking dad to the Cosmosphere where he gets in free. (800) 397-0330, www.cosmo.org.

july July 1-4 | HutchFest. Celebrate Independence Day at the annual HutchFest. Enjoy

music, crafts, food and a parade with a fireworks extravaganza the night of July 4. Event hours vary each day with $4 buttons required for some events. Activities take place in downtown Hutchinson, Carey Park and the fairgrounds. (620) 474-3169, www.hutchfest.com.

July 20-23 | Pretty Prairie Rodeo. Kansas’ Largest Night Rodeo celebrates its

74th year. In addition to the nightly rodeo, the Pretty Prairie event includes clowns, pony rides and a petting zoo. Tickets $8-$25. Rodeo starts at 8 p.m. nightly. (620) 459-6392, www.pprodeo.com.

august August 25 | Winemaker’s Dinner for TECH. A fundraiser event for TECH,

the Winemaker’s Dinner at Jillian’s Italian Grill features a five-course gourmet dinner paired with an array of wines. Tickets are $100 per person. Events begin at 6:30 p.m. (620) 663-1596, www.techinc.org.

August 26 | Downtown Hutch Uncorked for TECH. Spend the

evening sampling hors d’oeuvres and wine at 10 downtown venues. Tickets are $40 per person. Events begin at 6 p.m. (620) 663-1596, www.techinc.org.

August 27 | Yoder Heritage Day. Take in the quintessential small town at

the annual Yoder Heritage Day where visitors and locals alike are entertained by tractor pulls, buggy races and the annual parade down Yoder’s main street. (620) 200-0427, www.yoderkansas.com.

August 27 | Starry Night Observation Party. Bring your lawn chair to

Hutchinson Magazine | Summer 2011

learn about the planets and constellations at the Cosmosphere’s third annual event. Free. Activities start at 6 p.m. at Hobart-Detter Field in Carey Park. (800) 397-0330, www.cosmo.org.

Please submit event information to: hutchinsonmagazine@sunflowerpub.com (Dates and times subject to change)