Hutchinson Magazine Fall 2013 by Sunflower Publishing

Hutchinson M aga z i n e

fall 2013

following in his footsteps Hutchinsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s father and son duos

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discover

circles of hope

redefining the

empty nest

get creative:

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Hutchinson Volume 06 / Issue 02

Magazine

dear readers Publisher John Montgomery Advertising Director Dave Gilchrist Marketing Solutions Manager Anita Stuckey For Advertising Rates and Information

(620) 694-5700 ext. 222 sales Executives

Tammy Colladay Jade Piros de Carvalho Shelby Dryden Kyle Flax Mitch Hixson Ty Lyons Alexis Rhodenbaugh Tom Sullivan Sam Wilk ad designers

William Gates Kim Hoskinson Rachel Hixson Marcos Medrano Jessica Price Photographers

Aaron East Brian Lingle Deborah Walker

Contributing Writers

I am a firm believer in youth and vigor. Bright ideas from the young professionals in our community may at times seem wild, but given a little support it’s amazing to see what they will achieve.

This season, Hutchinson Magazine wants to celebrate that notion with our “4 Under 40” feature on some of Hutch’s savvy young business owners and success stories. They defied the odds and followed their dream all the way to the bank! Meet the Bryans, who turned one butcher shop into a family business; Staci Garrett, who followed her entrepreneurial spirit all the way to the catwalk; Sara Geurian, who solved a gourmet cupcake conundrum; and Levi Julian, who is serving a better fast-casual experience. Read their stories and learn more about what made them shoot for the stars. This season you’ll also meet a few gentlemen who are following in their fathers’ footsteps. See our profile of Bluebird Books—Hutchinson’s hottest “story.” And read about the inspiring organization Circles of Hope. Enjoy this and much more this season.

— Katy, Editor Follow us on twitter @hutchinsonmag find us on facebook: facebook.com/HutchinsonMagazine

Amy Bickel Amy Conkling Gloria Gale Kathy Hanks Edie Ross Richard Shank Patsy Terrell

Production and Editorial Services for Hutchinson Magazine provided by:

Editor Katy Ibsen Designer Jenni Leiste COPY EDITOR Deron Lee GENERAL MANAGER Bert Hull Publishing Coordinator Jenni Leiste Editorial comments (866) 655-4262 Subscriptions

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The Hutchinson News Circulation Department Elizabeth Garwood 300 W. Second | Hutchinson KS 67501 (620) 694-5700 ext. 115 (800) 766-5730 ext. 115 egarwood@hutchnews.com

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Hutchinson Magazine

Fall 2013

contents Features 36

Like father, like son

4 Under 40

These duos find that keeping it in the family is more than rewarding

Hutchinson’s young business leaders are making a name for themselves and blazing a trail

departments Lifestyle

Room with a view

The Fancy (Empty) Nest

A Highlands Golf Club home is a dream come true Ron and Carol Carr gather all their favorites in this lasting home

Profiles

The Early Bird

Thank Goodness It’s Friday

In each other we trust

Bluebird Books is making a name for itself in Hutchinson Hutchinson Artists gather on Friday mornings to tap into group creativity Circles of Hope provides the path and support to leaving poverty

Travel

Mayberry meets Wall Street

A multi-venue Museum Hotel boasts Bentonville’s hospitality

Hutch Talks

Barbara Lilyhorn

Jason Ball

Director of Reno County Departments of Transportation and Aging

President and CEO of Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce

In Every Issue: 2 dear readers

64 best bets

Hutchinson Magazine

departments

8..................................... Lifestyle 20.................................. Profiles 52.....................................travel 58............................hutch talks

Fall 2013

Lifestyle

Hutchinson Magazine

room with a

view

golf club home Jen, Scott and Landry Cooley are all settling in nicely to their Highlands Golf Club home with an unbeatable view.

A highlands golf club home is a dream come true Story by Amy Bickel

Photography by Deborah Walker

For six years, Scott and Jen Cooley dreamed of building their diamond in the rough at Highlands Golf Club, but rarely does property become available. “There is a lot available off the course,” says Scott, 35. “But we wanted our home to have a view of the course.”

Today, in an area where golfers once lost countless balls, the Cooleys’ 4,000-square-foot vision is now reality. When a tree-filled and overgrown parcel of sand hills along the 11th fairway came on the market, the couple jumped at the opportunity to build.

Jen and Scott broke ground on their home last summer, asking Scott’s brother-in-law, local contractor Mark Borecky, to do the project. For years they had visited open houses and made note of things they loved before the Highlands ever became a reality.

Fall 2013

Lifestyle

football season

With 11 flat-screen televisions, Scott and Jen Cooley don’t plan to miss any sporting events, especially during football season. When they are rooting on their favorite football team, the Dallas Cowboys, Scott says with a laugh, “she yells at the television.” Their home features two flat screens in the basement recreation room and a large theater screen, as well as a flat screen behind the bar. They have flat screens in the bedrooms, their living room and their office, which is decorated in Dallas Cowboys memorabilia. Their cell phones control the home’s sound system, including the televisions and music. “I can program music to play while we’re getting ready in the morning,” she says, noting it is also helpful for turning on the TV for their 3-yearold son, Landry. Meanwhile, Scott says, with their sports-minded setup, friends have already told them they are hosting next year’s Super Bowl party.

Hutchinson Magazine

The spacious living room and theater room allows plenty of space for entertaining friends during Dallas Cowboy football games (the Cooley’s favorite NFL team).

“We love going to open houses,” Jen says, adding that she made mental notes from each visit, which helped firm up the final blueprint. Jen and Scott, along with their 3-year-old son, Landry, moved into their home last spring. “We believe it’s something less common in our area, especially given some of the design finishes and interior colors,” Jen says. “[It’s] definitely a lot more contemporary than a typical ‘new home’ in Hutchinson.” The home is elegant, but not overdone. With four bedrooms, three baths and an open floor

plan, the Cooleys have plenty of room to grow. As avid sports fans, they designed a large recreation room in the walkout basement that includes a wet bar and theater-screen television, as well as theater seating. Hues of gray, black and white keep a cool tone to the home, which features espresso-stained, hand-scraped wood flooring. “I like the clean lines of a modern, contemporary type of design, but I have things like an old trunk I converted to a coffee table, little things that have character,” says Jen.

Circular drive

This might be Landry’s favorite part of the home. He races his tricycle and motorized truck around the loop as if he were a NASCAR driver.

An open kitchen

“I wanted something open,” says Jen. “I love to entertain and cook for big groups.”

Contemporary and modern

Jen went online to find much of the décor, which includes artwork as well as blackand-white photographs of airplanes and helicopter-style ceiling fans.

Televisions

The house features 11 flatscreen televisions.

Perfect view

Much of the back wall is glass, giving the couple a view of the Highlands Golf Club, the main reason they built the home on this location.

Fall 2013

Lifestyle evolution salon and spa When she’s not at work, Jen Cooley’s pink Hummer sits in the driveway at the couple’s new home, advertising her business— Evolution Salon and Spa. Evolution is a transformation of a turnof-the-century downtown Hutchinson building into a modern salon and day spa, with much of the same style and elegance that is featured in their new home. The hours they spent renovating the old structure are part of the reason they decided to let someone else build their dream home. The building was originally the three-story New York Hotel. Like all old buildings, it required tender loving care, with the couple spending more than two months working on nights and weekends. It took 50 hours to expose the red brick that is featured on the salon’s north wall, which included removing more than 7,300 pounds of plaster. “We did everything in there but the plumbing—and in only 64 days,” Scott says. “You can definitely see why we’re burned out on renovations and didn’t have much hand in our home other than just helping monitor subcontractors.” Their hard work and sweat paid off; the hair, nail and massage business opened in August 2010. “It’s definitely my thing,” Jen says. “We incorporated the historical part of the building and added a splash of pizzazz here and there— but left the charm.”

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backsplash A metallic backsplash in the kitchen changes colors throughout the day, turning more of a copper tone with the setting sun.

Other focal points include Jen’s exquisite yet progressive style, from the black-and-white airplane photos in the living room to the helicopter-styled ceiling fans and pendant lighting in the bedroom. The Cooleys offset the dark features with hints of color that spread throughout the home. The largest detail in the dream home was a golf course view. The Highlands Golf & Supper Club, which has an 18-hole course, rests in the sand hills of northern Reno County, featuring 6,650 yards of golf. For the Cooleys, the course’s picturesque backdrop was the perfect place to build their long-term home, especially for Scott, an avid golfer. The construction process included taking a hill of sand, grass and trees and turning it into a landscaped residence. Jen recalls looking at the lot

from the roadway during the initial groundbreaking and wondering how they would build a home there. “Once you got past the thick bushes, you had an incredible view,” says Scott. Now that extraordinary scenery can easily be caught from the large picture windows. “The back of the house is almost completely glass, with absolutely amazing hilltop views that overlook holes No. 11, 12, 13 and 14,” says Scott. A wraparound composite deck on the main level gives the couple and guests a place to watch golfers, while the basement patio allows for plenty of entertaining space. “It all eventually came together,” says Scott with a chuckle. “It has a comfortable feel,” says Jen, adding, “It’s beginning to feel like home.”

Fall 2013

Lifestyle

the Fancy

(Empty) Nest Ron and Carol Carr gather all their favorites in this lasting home Story by Edie Ross

Photography by Aaron East

When Ron and Carol Carr faced the inevitability of being empty-nesters, they saw a need for a new “nest.” After building two other homes—one in Great Bend, where they spent the early years of their marriage, and a one-level home in the Woodlands—they were ready for the challenge of building a dream home that not only met their needs, but also had a separate space for their children’s growing families when they came to visit. The wood-and-stone home on Prairie Dunes Golf Course features large open spaces and a walkout basement, which are perfect for entertaining. Natural elements, large windows and warm, earth-tone paint colors provide a soothing atmosphere that, combined with the Carrs’ collection of art, makes the house a home. “We wanted something different,” Carol Carr says. “We tried to pick stone and colors for the home that would blend in the natural surroundings provided by the trees and the lot.”

Ron and Carol Carr are pretty smitten with their emptynest lifestyle.

Hutchinson Magazine

“They have a craftsman-style home, which is different than what I’ve done in the past. ... Their home had some different character to it because of that than some of the other, more generic new construction going on right now.” — Mary Hoover

Fall 2013

Lifestyle

his

Ron Carr had one “musthave” in the new home—a shop. Attached to the couple’s garage is an insulated, air-conditioned and heated sanctuary for tinkering. Just about any tool one might need for any number of woodworking or home improvement projects is available and easily accessible in the shop—the very definition of the phrase “a place for everything and everything in its place.” Not one to sit still for long, Ron already “retired” from the feedlot business, and he promptly filled his time with work in the banking industry. But he knows that eventually he’ll retire in the traditional sense and the shop will be waiting for him to pursue his enjoyment of woodworking—a skill that he’s already honed. In fact, some of his handiwork has been on display in the Carrs’ former houses. He built an entertainment center for the Woodlands house and did most of the finish work in their home in Great Bend. Jayhawk fans might have trouble stomaching the purple-and-gray checkerboard floor (Ron is a 1966 Kansas State University alumnus), but the other perks of the space could win them over—including television, power tools and lots of room for projects.

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ABOVE The first-floor sitting area is nestled between a wall of floor-to-ceiling windows that peer out over a screened porch into the Carrs’ large backyard. LEFT Ron’s garage has all the latest tools for tinkering. RIGHT The backyard deck with a screened-in sitting area is perfect for entertaining with friends.

But while the style is slightly different, the Carrs didn’t waver on the builder, Jim Nunns, who also built their home in the Woodlands. “We were extremely happy with the house he built for us in the Woodlands,” Ron Carr says, adding that the couple had become friends with Nunns over

the years. “So when we wanted to build this one, he was the only person we talked to.” Nunns came up with many of the design features of the home, including a panel of windows in the upper-level great room, a screened-in porch with attached deck and the design

of bookcases and fireplaces in the home, Ron says. “He had a lot of great ideas,” he adds. Another returning player was interior designer Mary Hoover. “Mary helped us with color choices and interior finishes,” Carol says. “She helped us with the Woodlands

Fall 2013

Lifestyle

hers

When she’s not working, Carol Carr has a few hobbies—among them reading and cooking. Behind double doors in a floor-to-ceiling cabinet just off of the kitchen is Carol’s cookbook collection, which includes books from all over the United States and from London and Paris as well. She also has quite an extensive collection of Christmas cookbooks, which provide her with decorating ideas and other tips. “It’s quite the collection,” Carol says, running her eyes over the shelves of cookbooks. While there isn’t one cuisine she most enjoys cooking, there are a few types of cookbooks she finds herself going back to often, including the Southern Living Collection, Gooseberry Patch and Food Network cookbooks. From her travels, she most enjoys Junior League cookbooks. “They tell a story as well as have a recipe,” Carol explains.

Hutchinson Magazine

ABOVE A walkout basement features a wet bar with an impressive oak bar top—another one of builder Jim Nunns’ ideas.

house, too, and we liked that house so much that we went to her again.” It was Hoover’s suggestion, for example, to use white cabinetry to contrast with the dark hand-scraped maple floors—a design element both Ron and Carol now really love. Hoover not only enjoyed working with the Carrs, who she says are straightforward and easy to work with, but she also enjoyed the project itself. “They used a lot of warm, inviting colors, which is what I would choose for my own house,” Hoover says. “It was fun and made it easier to pick up on what they wanted.” Hoover adds that the architectural style of their home was attractive to her as a designer. “They have a craftsman-style home, which is different than what I’ve done in the past,” she says. “Their home had some different character to it because of that than some of the other, more generic new construction going on right now.” While Hoover helped with some of the finishings and furniture options, the Carrs had the artwork covered. Both Ron and Carol work in the banking industry, but they love to travel when they can get away. To commemorate their travels, they always try to find a piece of art from their destinations. Much of the home’s textured walls are covered with art from places like Santa Fe, New Mexico and Provincetown, Massachusetts, as well as from Northern Ireland and Rome. The Carrs say that among the many things they love about the house is that no space goes to waste. “The house is great for entertaining,” Carol says. “We just really like it. It’s nice to come home to.”

Art from around the world From the Vatican, Ron and Carol Carr brought home a statue of the Holy Family. From Northern Ireland came an artist’s rendition of Drumcree Church. The artist was the father of one of the students who came to Hutchinson through the Ulster Project, which the Carrs were involved in as a host family. The Carrs also proudly display an original Birger Sandzén portraying a cabin scene. The piece was given to Ron’s grandparents in 1910 as a wedding present from his great aunt, who was secretary for Sandzén at Bethany College. Ron and Carol both enjoy decorating their home for the holidays and make it a point to collect Christmas tree ornaments when they travel.

Fall 2013

profile

“It’s a really big deal for our community to have an independent bookstore, and it makes me proud people have said that.” —Melanie Green

Hutchinson Magazine

Bluebird Books is all the reading rage in downtown Hutchinson.

the

Early Bird

Bluebird Books is making a name for itself in Hutchinson Story by Patsy Terrell

Photography by Aaron East

Bluebird Books was a dream 10 years in the making. Owner Melanie Green first considered it when her youngest child was born. Although the book industry changed dramatically in that decade, she didn’t change her mind. “I don’t know what inspired it,” Melanie says. “The idea, the thought, the dream just hung on.” That dream became Bluebird Books last year, with a distinctive brand, look and feel. The blue chairs on Main Street beckon visitors inside the store, which uses repurposed and up-cycled items, architectural salvage, bluebirds of all sorts, and original artwork to set the stage for a creative experience. “We did intend for it to be a very cool and comfortable place where people want to come,” says Melanie. “We put a lot of thought into how things would be put together.” Friend Becca Hardenburger helped her with design. “It was my vision and my inspiration, but she did all the planning,” says Melanie. Together they executed Melanie’s vision in creating an area that would allow various configurations for events, such as receptions, musical performances, lectures, book groups and more. As renovations began on Bluebird Books, nooks and crannies revealed the building’s past. Workers uncovered leaded glass windows near the ceiling by the Sherman Street door, and a tin ceiling.

During the renovations for Bluebird Books, contractors uncovered a hole in the floor in the back corner. It would have been a mystery, but the daughter of a former owner told them it was a floor safe from when her family had a jewelry store there. The renovation crew intended to fill it in, but interior designer Becca Hardenburger and owner Melanie Green saw an opportunity. They covered it with glass and lit it from below. Now it’s used to highlight a particular book—to be a gateway into Narnia, Hundred Acre Wood or another as-yetundiscovered land that lives in books and the imagination.

Fall 2013

profile

Eats & Drinks A limited supply of free chocolate chip cookies each day. Thursday-Saturday, scones are for sale from the Sunflower Supper Club. Custom blended and roasted coffee for sale from Radina’s Coffeehouse in Manhattan.

“We’re always looking to be unique and creative, and do things that haven’t been done in Hutchinson,” she says. The bluebird theme grew out of a suggestion made by Melanie’s daughter, Tess, who proposed Meadowlark Books. The bird theme struck a chord with Melanie. “We see bluebirds out where we are,” she says, adding that bluebirds are often referenced in art and literature. “The bluebird is pervasive throughout the design,” says Melanie. Bluebirds are on the walls, the shelves and even the floor. Each month Bluebird Books hosts a different artist’s work, with an opening reception the first Friday of the month. Some of those artists have gifted her with a piece of art featuring the store’s namesake. Occasionally artwork or other mementos featuring bluebirds just magically

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appear—“little random acts of bluebird happiness,” Melanie says.

Connecting A wall of cupboards hangs in the store, originating from 100 Cupboards, which is a children’s fantasy book set in Kansas. The Bluebird Books version includes cupboard doors, a post office box door, hardware and finials. Naturally, that book was the choice for the first children’s reading group. Bluebird Books hosts children’s story time Thursday and Saturday mornings, book clubs for adults and children, writing workshops, live music, beer and wine tastings, teacher appreciation events and a kids’ summer reading program. Bringing people together was one of the goals Melanie had for the store.

“The whole concept of a book store as a community place, a gathering spot, a place for people to come together to grow, to learn, to be creative has huge value,” she says. It is central to all she does. This idea was part of her reason for choosing the downtown space. “I felt it was important that it be located downtown because downtown has a personality, and already has a vibrancy…. I wanted to be a part of that and contribute to that as well,” she says.

Banking on Books Opening a bookstore might not seem like a logical business choice in today’s climate. Despite statistics that show digital-only readers are a small percentage of the book market, she knew Bluebird Books had to offer something beyond physical books.

“One of the things I really love about it is the people who would not have otherwise connected, and it’s over a book.”

In keeping with the bird theme, an ornate birdcage found in Colorado serves as a light fixture. It was in storage at Melanie’s house before it was hung in the store, and the scene was completed with a couple of feeders nearby.

—Melanie Green

“I realized that creating something that would be sustainable in our community—it had to be more than a bookstore,” she says. The store has been well-received since opening last November during Third Thursday. “I was just overwhelmed when we opened with how the community embraced the idea of a bookstore, not just my bookstore, but the idea of a bookstore,” she says.

The Bookkeeper In preparation for opening, Melanie attended a weeklong school for potential bookstore owners. Here she learned about everything from writing a business plan and selecting inventory to opening. After that, she selected a wholesale distributor who offered a customized opening inventory plan.

“I tell them what my community is like, what the demographics are, and what I want the personality of my store to be,” she says. She specified how many linear feet of shelf space she wanted to devote to each section and was sent a massive spreadsheet of options. “Now I have the fun task of figuring out what Hutchinson really wants, and offering a more curated inventory,” she says. Bluebird Books is now flying high and Melanie couldn’t be happier. “I just love books and I love to read, and that was exciting to me,” she says. “You should do something that’s exciting to you.” www.bluebirdbookstore.com

Fall 2013

profile

Thank Goodness

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Friday Hutchinson Artists gather on Friday mornings to tap into group creativity Story by Kathy Hanks

Photography by Deborah Walker

Eyes squinted, Cozette Christian was lost in concentration studying the white gazebo in George W. Pyle Park. In front of her stood a small field easel attached to a tripod, with a handy roll of paper towels dangling from a chain attached

Hutchinson Magazine

to the tripodâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s legs. She would move her brush for a few strokes and then swipe the brush across the towel before moving on to another color. She was trying to capture the moment. Undeterred by the hot Kansas wind, and

with the early morning shadows almost lost to the bright glare, she continued to paint. Christian is a member of the Friday Morning Artists, who gather year round for just two hours each week. In the winter months they work in the studio at the

sculpture walk It’s not polite to stare, but when glancing at the “Canteen Lady,” it’s impossible not to study her for a very long while. Her piercing eyes stare right back. And then you study the detail of her dress, from her high heels and neatly tied apron. And before you know it you are snooping in her basket at the packs of Camels and Lucky Strikes and the Babe Ruth candy bars. “The Canteen Lady” is a bronze sculpture created by Nebraska artist Sondra L. Jonson; it will be on display as part of the 2013 Downtown Hutchinson Sculpture Walk. The idea of a sculpture walk began in 2012, with six sculptures loaned by regional sculptors to be on display for one year on Main Street in Hutchinson. The community art project is a collaborative effort of the City of Hutchinson, Downtown Hutchinson and the Hutchinson/Reno County Arts and Humanities Council. Four of the original sculptures from 2012 received permanent homes around Hutchinson, where they will remain in public view.

Cozette Christian paints the gazebo downtown during Friday Morning Artists gathering.

Hutchinson Art Center, and in the spring and summer months they head outdoors for Plein Air sessions around Hutchinson. On this particular Friday, just a handful of the group showed up at the park to paint. “Artists are such a solitary lot, so it helps to get together with kindred souls,” says Jeanette Mull, a professional artist, who explains the group is for anyone with a penchant for all mediums from oil to charcoal. They range from professionals to hobbyists. “We appreciate the group and have fun together.” “You don’t sign up, you just show up at 9:30 a.m. and paint until 11:30 a.m.,” says Mark Rassette, director of the Art Center. The only requirement to joining the group is that you must be a member of the art association. The group, whose size varies, was first organized in 2007 under the direction of David Murano, the former director of the Art Center.

“Rachel Weeping For Her Children,” last year’s sculpture by Jonson, was named the People’s Choice Award for 2012. The City of Hutchinson is currently negotiating with Jonson to purchase the sculpture for permanent display in Avenue A Park. Meanwhile, this year’s Juror’s Choice Award of $1,000 went to Karen Crain of Littleton, Colorado, for her sculpture “Comforter,” which is a bronze of a woman comforting a small child. From now until December 31, people can vote on their favorite sculpture for the 2013 People’s Choice Award. The winner will be announced in January 2014. *continued on page 27

Fall 2013

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become an Art Association member Go to

www.hutchinsonartcenter.org For former city attorney Carolyn Patterson, a water colorist, it’s a challenge to try new things such as figure drawing. She appreciates the association with people who share her passion for art. “It’s a stimulating way to spend Friday morning,” Patterson says. “We look at each others’ work, and learn how others approach an artistic problem. Sometimes I know I have captured the model and sometimes I haven’t.” Christian also appreciates the way the group challenges her, which she especially finds when she is out on location with the Plein Air painting.

Hutchinson Magazine

“I look forward to painting outdoors. It’s a challenge,” Christian says. “In a studio, you have a composition and you can sit down and work it out. But outdoors, you are on the spot and it’s a lot more difficult. You have to paint quickly and narrow down all that is out there to a pleasing composition.” As one of the newer members, she appreciates the bond that has formed with the group. “You gain knowledge of different shows, and the artists others admire,” Christian says. “And you get the advice of others in the group.” The group depends on one person to send out emails announcing where they

An $8 weekly fee offsets costs associated with models who sit in studio.

will meet during the summer. Sometimes they paint at the Hutchinson Zoo, where they can capture an assortment of wildlife from the bison, pelicans and wild turkeys, or Dillon Nature Center. They have even painted the flowers and scenery at Stutzman Apple Lane nursery. “We welcome anybody,” Patterson says. “The makeup of the group changes year to year and even week to week. I like the regularity of going to the art association.”

Take your own sculpture tour of Hutchinson “Spirit of Energy” by Karen Crain—west side of Third Avenue and Main Street “Butterfly Girl” by Gregory Johnson—northwest corner of First Avenue and Main Street “Eternal” by Gregory Johnson—northwest corner of Sherman and Main “Emma” by Sondra L. Jonson—northwest corner near parking lot at Avenue A and Main Plein Air is a French term for “in the open air,” and is particularly used to describe the act of painting outdoors. It was developed in the mid-19th century with the Barbizon school and the Impressionists. Paints were developed in tubes and could be taken on location. It was also during this time that the field easel was developed, making it easier for artists to paint away from the studio.

“Canteen Lady” by Sondra L. Jonson—northeast corner of Avenue B and Main “Prairie Moon” by Don Lind—southeast corner of Fourth and Main “Eyes on Man” by Sandra Keller—northeast corner of Third and Main “Going Home” by Sondra L. Jonson—southeast corner of First and Main “Whispering Secrets” by Don Lind—southeast corner of Sherman and Main “Comforter” by Karen Crain—southeast corner of Avenue A and Main To learn more about the Sculpture Walk, go to

www.hutchgov.com/department/ division.php?fDD=2-368

Fall 2013

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In each other

we trust

Circles of Hope provides the path and support to leaving poverty Story by Richard Shank Photography by Deborah Walker

Hutchinson Magazine

On July 1, 2011, Circles of Hope was launched in Reno County and hosted its first meeting. Today the group continues help families who demonstrate a strong desire to leave poverty, by surrounding them with a network of training, encouragement and support.

Fall 2013

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Jill Foss, one of the founding members, quickly noticed how this method would help poverty-stricken residents in Reno County.

Unfortunately, poverty exists in Hutchinson. But in just two years, Circles of Hope has made strides in the effort to eliminate it. The Reno County chapter of Circles of Hope is part of a national organization that utilizes a comprehensive approach to ending poverty through empowering circles of relationships. The idea for a Circles of Hope chapter came in 2008, when a group of five Trinity United Methodist Church members ventured to Wichita to attend a three-day seminar entitled “Faith and Leadership Transforming Communities.” Jill Foss, who attended along with her spouse, recalls the meeting as nothing less than intense. “Early in the seminar we caught ourselves saying this approach won’t work in Hutchinson, and the following day said just the opposite,” she says with a hearty laugh.

Hutchinson Magazine

The road According to Circles of Hope, the poverty rate in Reno County sits at 14.6 percent, with 20 percent of all children living in poverty. Five of the city’s elementary schools serve either free or reduced-cost lunches to 75 percent of students. The numbers help illustrate the need to support the community’s poverty-stricken members. Participants are required to complete an application for inclusion into Circles of Hope and to commit to a 12-week training course entitled “Getting Ahead in a Just Getting by World,” plus an 18-month commitment to write, work and achieve goals to become what is labeled as “self-sufficient.” Jim Unruh and Judy Hawk, who serve as co-facilitators of the weekly sessions, screen the applicants before reaching a consensus of class members, who will become known as

“circle leaders.” The meetings are designed to be a family event, and circle leaders are encouraged to bring their children to each session, where local volunteers are on hand to provide child care. As the 12-week course approaches a conclusion, a graduation is planned. Here circle leaders are presented with a certificate for a successful completion of the first level. In the second level, they are matched with volunteers known as “allies,” who work handin-hand with individuals to establish goals and develop processes to accomplish over the next 18 months. “In these sessions, we ask the circle leaders what they want to be in five years,” Foss says. “As allies, we accompany our circle leader on the journey of meeting the goals he or she has set to get out of poverty, and try to connect the circle leader with the resources

A small group of locals sat around a table to start Circles of Hope. They are now in good company, as 50 new volunteers have signed on to offer a helping hand.

Fall 2013

profile This year the group donned bright yellow T-shirts to march in Hutchinsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Independence Day Parade to help raise awareness and welcome new volunteersâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; young and old.

Hutchinson Magazine

needed to achieve those goals,” says LaVerle Schrag. “Along the way, trust must be built between the circle leader and his or her allies,” says Schrag.

Angie Angie Ratzlaff remembers attending her first Circles of Hope meeting hoping to resolve issues with trust that she had faced for her whole life. After completing the program, she not only was able to resolve the trust factor, but simultaneously tackled other issues in her life, including networking, money management and developing friendships.

Christina Christina McCroy, whose top priority is to complete requirements for a high school diploma, is progressing toward the goal even quicker than she anticipated. “I remember dropping out of high school after a guidance counselor predicted that I would never graduate,” McCroy says. All that changed thanks to Circles of Hope allies,

who assured McCroy she has what it takes to take her rightful place as a high school graduate. And if all goes well, she will don a cap and gown in May 2014 to do just that. McCroy’s achievement has an added benefit in that her husband, also a high school dropout, is inspired by Angie’s efforts and is working to do the same. “My husband and I love attending Circles of Hope, and look forward to the meetings every Thursday night,” McCroy said.

The reward Circles of Hope is feeling good about its successes and is hitting the streets with 50 new volunteers to tell the Hutchinson community what the organization is all about. “We contacted agencies in Hutchinson in an effort to determine what issues were not being dealt with involving the eradication of poverty,” Foss says. “This is not a faithbased organization, and although office space, meeting rooms and significant financial support is provided by Trinity United Methodist Church, the majority of

the volunteers are from other churches and organizations from throughout the city.” Today, numerous Hutchinson businesses have stepped forward to donate everything from money to food and other supplies needed to continue the weekly program. To date, about 40 people have completed the program, and with increased visibility in the community there is anticipation that Circles of Hope may be on the cusp of expanding. Unruh, whose infectious enthusiasm has driven the sessions since the program’s inception, summarizes the start of a journey that he says may last 10 to 20 years to achieve desired results. “This is a marathon, not a sprint, and if we were running a 26-mile race, we might at this moment be on mile two,” Unruh says. “We can’t yet see the finish line, but we do know we are on the way.” www.trinityhutch.org

Fall 2013

Hutchinson Magazine

features

36............... Like father, Like son 42.............................. 4 under 40

Fall 2013

Story by Amy Bickel and Amy Conkling

Photography by Aaron East

Like father, Like son

These duos find that keeping it in the family is more than rewarding Generational businesses are common in Hutchinson, but learning how these family teams came to be provides a chance to learn more about the treasured father/son relationship.

Dave and Scott

Stroberg The hot summer sun fades below the Kansas horizon, but Dave Stroberg and his son, Scott, are hard at work driving combines across a field of ripened wheat. No, farming is not a 40-hour workweek, according to Scott Stroberg. However, the tradition runs deep in the veins of this father-and-son team. From the days of livestock pulling a plow to today’s computer-operated tractors and combines, four generations have passed down a love of the job and the land, along with a hard work ethic. Scott, 23, who just returned to the farm this summer, is the fifth generation.

Hutchinson Magazine

“It’s just a way of life,” says Scott, adding that as he progressed through college “it started taking over—the passion I have for farming.” His love of agriculture began early. He recalls riding in the combine with his sisters, Andrea and Amy, and their father during harvests. By age 12, Scott was driving one of the machines himself to help his family bring in the crops. Dave, 57, and his wife, Susan, manage a grain farm and a cow/calf operation in Reno County. He built up his operation through hard work and determination, traits he learned from his parents, Dean and Bernadine Stroberg.

Farming can be stressful at times. It can be tiresome. Dave, however, cou ld n’t imagine doing anything else. “It’s busy. There are long days,” he says. “But I like to be outside and see the growing of the crops and the changing of the seasons.” Scott says he has learned a lot from his father over the years as he followed him around the farm, though he is still learning every day. “I remember one time when I was little and I was sleeping in the truck,” Scott says about one late-night trip with his father to check cattle. “I woke up to a baby calf sitting next to me in the truck.”

Dave laughs at that memory, too, saying his son must have been only 3 years old at the time. “It was probably two or three o’clock in the morning and it was a cold, snowy, wintry night,” Dave says. “We needed to bring in some calves and I had put one in the seat beside him.” Dave instilled the love of farm life in all three of his children. His daughters both have attended Kansas State University for agriculture degrees and Scott will earn an Agronomy degree. “It’s awesome,” says Scott. “Not a lot of people get to work with their dads every day or have a relationship with them like I do with my dad.”

Vernon and Steve

Neufeld Steve Neufeld thanks his dad for his change in career 15 years ago. At that time, Vernon Neufeld was into his second year of owning a trucking company, and he saw potential. He approached his son, who had worked for Dillons Warehouse for 13 years in various positions, about the possibility of expanding his business. “After thinking about it and leaving the security of a stable job, I decided to take the risk and become co-owner,” Steve says. It was then that they purchased a mail courier service to complement the existing truck company, naming it S & V Enterprises, Inc. The fatherson duo, along with three other employees, haul both locally and throughout the Midwest, carrying anything that fits on a gooseneck flatbed or step deck semi trailer. Steve also runs the mail courier service for several Hutchinson-area companies, and has hired three employees to assist him. “I always thought I would be working a nine-to-five job in the corporate world after I graduated college,” Steve says. “It wound up that I never did have that type of job.” Right away the father-son duo had an understanding of each other’s roles in the company, which was necessary to make it successful and keep it going. When they’re not talking to one another in person, they’re on the phone daily to constantly keep each other up to date on every facet of the business. They admit, though, that it’s difficult keeping their business discussions away from the rest of their families. “It’s easier to schedule family functions since we work together, but it is sometimes a little difficult to keep business out of the get-togethers,” Steve says. “Our wives and children do a good job of reminding us that we are off-duty.”

Hutchinson Magazine

Willard and Matt

Stafford Two Rev. Staffords preach God’s word from the pulpit every Sunday morning. At 78, Willard leads the congregation at Temple Baptist, a little church on East Third, just as he has for nearly 45 years. Meanwhile, his 52-yearold son Matt is the pastor at First Congregational Church just three miles down the road. “In the back of my mind, I was going to be in a rock band,” laughs Matt, recalling his early high school career path. “I resisted the ministry my whole life.” God, however, had a different plan—the same plan God had for his father years earlier. “I was 15 years old when I heard the Gospel of the Good News,” says Willard of his divine calling. “I had always

been churchgoing, but this was the first time I heard it, and I put my faith and trust in Him.” In 1969, when Willard began preaching at Temple, only 22 people filled the pews on his first Sunday, including his wife and children. Today, his church has 140 members. “We just all went to work, and the church grew and grew and grew,” Willard says. In 1975, Willard became Hutchinson’s police and fire chaplain, on top of his daily church duties. Watching his father work hard at a sometimes-thankless job for little pay, Matt admits he didn’t think he was cut out to follow in his dad’s footsteps. “What I found out was people are more important than money,” says Matt. “I wasn’t going to

be happy unless I was true to myself.” Matt graduated from Bible college and for several years ministered with his father at Temple. About a decade ago, he reached a crossroads and was contemplating quitting the ministry altogether. God, he says, gave him another nudge, this time to First Congregational on North Plum. The church needed an interim minister. Matt told the leadership no, twice. “God has worked with my mistakes just as much as my accomplishments,” Matt says. “If you want to make God laugh, tell him your plans.” He’s been there for nine years.

He hasn’t forgotten his ch i ld hood d rea m s — h i s 1970s-genre rock band Brand New Day plays at local venues and has released a few CDs. Matt, however, wouldn’t be where he is today without his dad. “He’s had a tremendous impact on my life,” he says. “I’ve known a lot of ministers in my life and great people, but there is no one more genuine than he is. Willard says he knew as a minister that there would be trials and difficult times for his son. However, it warms his heart to see his son’s obedience to the Lord. “Matt and I both preach God’s word, and what doesn’t matter is the location or the name of the church,” Willard says.

Fall 2013

Hutchinson Magazine

Cliff and Chris

Shank

Cliff Shank passed down a lot of loves to his oldest son, Chris: Kansas State University Wildcats, sports and radio. Shank, owner of Ad Astra Per Aspera Broadcasting, Inc., operates four radio stations, and this past year he brought Chris on board to be the vice president and sales manager of the familyoperated broadcasting station. Cliff Shank has lived and breathed all things radio since he graduated with a degree in broadcasting from K-State in 1974. He worked in Hutchinson as well as Topeka and Wichita, working his way up in both sales and management positions before purchasing his first radio station, 106.1 KSKU FM, in 1986. Today he owns and operates four radio stations across the region. Chris, meanwhile, went into education and spent nine years coaching and teaching in northeast Kansas before moving back home to the business his father built. His radio experience came from growing up in a radio family. “I started by taking out the trash around the office in junior high,” he says with a laugh. He later worked his way up to being a DJ on-air throughout high school and junior college. But his radio days ended after his graduation from K-State. Or so he thought. Last summer, when Cliff’s longtime business partner retired, he talked his son into joining him in the radio industry. The timing could have been better, as it followed a devastating fire that destroyed the original Main Street location. Ad Astra now operates about a half-mile north of the original location, just off of Main Street, offering a variety of FM stations including country, classic rock, Top 40 and oldies. Where they flourish—and where father and son are both passionate—is in their local coverage of news, weather and sports. “You can get music all over the place,” Cliff says. “I made the decision a long time ago that music is important on our stations, but it’s really good to have local, breaking news and weather coverage, and great sports coverage of our local schools.” Notably, this is where Chris’ experience as a coach gives him a great advantage at the radio station. “The nice thing about working for my dad is you know him better than any other boss you have,” Chris says. “At the end of the day, even when there’s a disagreement, we both understand that we’re wanting the same thing in life.”

Fall 2013

under

Hutchinson’s young business leaders are making a name for themselves and blazing a trail Meet the trailblazers. A handful of Hutchinson’s young business leaders didn’t let age stop them from fulfilling their dreams. From owning their own businesses to working toward executive management positions, these young professionals truly capture the essence of being a young pro. Their work is inspiring to crowds young and old through their passion, hard work and gusto for life.

Story by

Amy Conkling

Photography by Brian Lingle

Hutchinson Magazine

Andrew and Jeni Bryan had no reason to leave their jobs three years ago. They were both successful in their respective careers, but a unique opportunity came in the form of a popular Hutchinson store, Jackson Meat.

Andrew & Jeni Bryan:

Jackson Meat • Ages: 30 (Andrew); 28 (Jeni) • Store Stats: Jackson Meat is open 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday and 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday. • Family Spirit: Both Jeni’s and Andrew’s mothers—who are in education—come in on the weekends or their days off in the summer to help man the counter or fulfill orders. www.jacksonmeat.com

“A lot of people didn’t know what to expect—we didn’t even know what to expect,” Jeni says of their decision to make a change. “We weren’t experts, but had some wonderful people teach us along the way. And we’re still learning; that’s the fun part.” The couple has resurrected the “good ole days” butcher shop and transformed it into a hometown shop for fresh meats and cheeses, wholesale and retail. In just three years, the Bryans have also expanded to include specialty items, such as smoked ribs and salmon, and other offerings to lure in customers day after day. The business, in addition to Jeni and Andrew, boasts 12 employees who “are a great, young staff, and we’ve been fortunate to have little turnover,” Jeni says. Both Andrew and Jeni have their own roles in the business. Andrew works behind the scenes and oversees wholesale orders and the meatprocessing side of the business, while Jeni spends most of her time assisting the staff and making sure customers have their best experience possible. “We work well together. He’s definitely the boss,” Jeni says, and both are OK with that. What’s difficult now, though, is trying to fulfill their newfound passion of owning a business and trying to turn off the work switch. “We’re living and breathing it seven days a week,” Jeni says. “We try to take time off, and we try not to talk about work around the dinner table, but it’s become our passion. We came in willing to take a chance and not knowing what the outcome would be. It’s turned into a great opportunity, and we’re very blessed.”

Fall 2013

Hutchinson Magazine

Staci Garrett grew up a tomboy—a girl who loved getting dirty, playing sports and putting up a fight whenever her mom tried to put a brush in her hair. So she’s not surprised whenever friends from her hometown of Great Bend find out she is a fashion boutique owner— they look a bit shocked.

Staci Garrett:

White Lily Boutique • Age: 29 • Store Stats: Open 10:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Monday-Tuesday, 10:30 a.m.9 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday, 12:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Sunday. • Philanthropic Spirit: Garrett’s community spirit shines as she supports a number of groups, including Cancer Council of Reno County and the Soroptimist Women’s Show. She also carries handmade bracelets by Nepalese women and supports Project FEED. www.whitelilyfashion.com

Garrett, at just 29 years old, owns the chic White Lily Boutique inside the Hutchinson Mall, a labor of love that she’s called her baby since the doors opened in October 2011. The former high school and collegiate tennis player caught the fashion bug early, studying marketing and entrepreneurship. Constantly educating herself on style and fashion, she also landed a job marketing a boutique and fell in love with the industry. “I kept doing retail and fashion jobs and just realized that I loved it,” Garrett says. So much so that in a whirlwind she took out a small loan, started collecting inventory, and worked hours on end to find and create the perfect shopping experience for her future customers. Ironically, it was Garrett’s dad, also an entrepreneur, who had the hardest time envisioning his daughter’s jump into the self-employment world. “He just wanted to make sure I’d be OK,” she says. Garrett’s business model has attracted a mostly 20s and 30s crowd as she markets 90 percent through Facebook and word of mouth, but she sees a variety of age groups walk through her 2,500-squarefoot store on a daily basis. “We started off completely with my style. I’m still a country girl, so I go after the clothing pieces that could look good with a pair of cowboy boots,” Garrett says. “I feel the community has really embraced this business, but I’m always trying to figure out ways to get others in the door who don’t know or haven’t heard about us,” she says.

Fall 2013

Hutchinson Magazine

Simply, Sara Geurian didn’t like anyone else’s cupcakes. She was tired of searching for a local store that would make the modern-day iconic treats the way she wanted them: filled with fresh and tasty ingredients and free of preservatives.

Sara Geurian:

Serendipity Cupcakes • Age: 31 • Store Stats: 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday. www.serendipityhutch.com

So when her oldest daughter Ava’s first birthday was approaching five years ago, she decided right then she wasn’t going to settle on store-bought cupcakes. She made them herself, and along the way became the queen of cupcakes in Hutchinson as she opened her downtown shop, Serendipity Cupcakes. The cupcake queen expanded, as did her family; along with her husband, Josh, there is Ava (now 6), Chloe (3) and Milo (1). Shortly after those tasty cupcakes made a debut at Ava’s birthday party, Geurian tapped into the Reno County Farmers’ Market and various arts and craft shows, selling her cupcakes and getting her name out there. She spent time taking private orders and baking from her home kitchen until it expanded. Today she offers a variety of designs and flavors, including gluten-free. “I needed a commercial kitchen, and it just worked out that a flower shop was looking for another niche to offer besides flowers,” Geurian says. She opened Serendipity Cupcakes inside the former Petals flower shop in April 2011 and earlier this summer moved to her own building a few blocks away, in the heart of downtown Hutchinson. And while she’s living out her passion, she says the luxuries of owning a business do come with their own challenges. “I’m still learning to control the business instead of the letting the business control me,” Geurian says, as she admits it is difficult figuring out the balance of a popular business while raising a young family. “I’m here to cater to the public, and their schedule isn’t always my own ideal schedule. It’s all about working around the customer.”

Fall 2013

Hutchinson Magazine

Levi Julian always saw himself in a leadership position when he “grew up.” And whether or not he knew it was going to happen, at just 31 years of age he’s found it.

Levi Julian:

Operations Manager for Hutchinson Subway restaurants • Age: 31 • Family Stats: Married for 10 years with a 6-year-old daughter. • Community Stats: Julian is involved in Young Professionals of Reno County and the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce, and is on the council at his church, Our Redeemer Lutheran.

As the operations manager for Subway, Julian oversees 26 of the popular restaurant chain’s stores in Reno County and areas in northcentral and northeast Kansas. He’s worked for Subway for the last 12 years, after having worked with the management team at Long John Silver’s during his high school and early college years. And yet his restaurant career nearly didn’t happen. “I was almost wrapped up with enrollment in the electrical power distribution program for my first year of college when I decided to change my degree to business,” Julian says. So at 19 and ready for a change, Julian responded to a Subway ad seeking management trainees in his hometown of Pratt. And he hasn’t looked back since. He takes a hands-on approach to his management style, understanding that a multi-unit operation, such as a restaurant, always comes with many hats to wear. “When I can, my favorite thing to do is jump on the front line, interact with customers, and make subs sideby-side with the team,” Julian says. “It keeps me tuned up and in touch with those front-line operations and provides guidance by example.” He loves watching employees grow in the company, as it brings him back to his own decision to do so. “I was drawn to Subway because I was ready for a change, liked the concept, and saw the growth potential in their system,” Julian says. “I’ve always had the desire to be in this type of leadership position.”

Fall 2013

travel

Hutchinson Magazine

Travel

21c Museum Hotel in Bentonville is one of three locations where art and accommodations combine.

Mayberry meets

Wall Street a multi-venue Museum Hotel boasts Bentonville’s hospitality Story by Gloria Gale

Photography by GLINTstudios courtesy of 21c Museum Hotels

Arkansas has built a reputation around its natural world. Everywhere the great outdoors prevails—the Ozark hills, lush woodlands and miles of freshwater lakes. It’s a place where Sam Walton grew an idea into the largest international retail giant, amidst verdant local surroundings. The unspoiled charm that endeared Walton to his hometown endures. Now, it’s coupled with a new experience that is impressing both locals and visitors. 21c Museum Hotel has come calling with a playful, witty countenance.

“Sounds like a review of a first date rather than a hotel. But it’s what the folks at 21c want guests to enjoy. We like to think of ourselves first as a museum, then a hotel,” says Rick Reed, director of sales and marketing. This isn’t a hotel like many others. 21c (the name is a nod to 21st-century living artists) has a unique DNA, and it’s thoroughly unexpected. Not just because of the location, just a half-block off the square in downtown Bentonville, but its founding premise. The philosophy of the founders, contemporary art collectors Laura Lee Brown and Steve Wilson, is straightforward. They’re committed to bringing works of art to the public by integrating art into daily life. This is a place where anyone from visiting power brokers to locals can feel at ease.

Fall 2013

travel

21c Museum Hotel Bentonville opened in February 2013 and is one of only three in the country. It’s modeled after the flagship in Louisville, Kentucky. Another is located in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Penguins flocking This whimsical world begins right from the get-go with 3-foot-tall recycled plastic penguins standing sentry throughout the building. “They’re a signature of the Museum Hotel,” says Reed. “Created by Cracking Art Group, a collective of six international artists, the largerthan-life green birds are emblematic of 21c’s mission to integrate art into the brand. Each of the two other museum hotels have the penguins in equally vivid colors.” The penguins amuse, but the exhibitions found in the lobby, the restaurant, the elevator landings, board and bedrooms are the main attractions. Designed by architect Deborah Berke, the expansive 12,000 square feet of exhibition space are integrated into the entire property, featuring artwork culled from the founders’ growing collection of over 2,000 works. Additionally, the roster of art events includes solo and group exhibitions, commissioned installations and a variety of cultural programs. Berke, Brown and Wilson worked together to design the public and gallery spaces with an elegant, modern feel. The 104 guest rooms are equally modern but feel intimate and cozy. “That’s a result of custom-made furniture, luxury bedding and a minimalist approach – there’s nothing overtly fussy in our guest rooms,” says Reed. Because the museum hotel is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 21c visitors keep coming back – sharing the new experience with friends. “Usually, people stroll around and take their time to view the art. Often, as an example, it’s not just guests of the hotel who frequent The Hive, our restaurant – it’s the visitor to the area,” says Reed. The sleek environs feature a menagerie of animal mounts gracing the light-filled space. “Only these animals aren’t like any wild game you’ve seen,” says Matthew McClure, executive chef. Moose, rhino, tiger, ram and the penguins are on display, but their inanimate composition is what intrigues. Some are fashioned from assemblage, some from matchsticks. The tiger is actually formed from deconstructed traffic cones; a ram is made from recycled tires.

Hutchinson Magazine

Travel

The founders are committed to bringing works of art to the public by integrating art into daily life. This is a place where anyone from visiting power brokers to locals can feel at ease.

Breakfast, lunch or dinner, whether in the dining room, in the fashionable marble-topped bar, or seated with a view into the kitchen at the chef’s pantry, dining at The Hive offers plenty of conversation starters. “The public’s embrace of 21c has been astounding, and local and national critics from publications such as Travel + Leisure, The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and W too note and applaud 21c Museum Hotel’s unique experience,” says Stephanie Greene, public relations manager for the Museum Hotels.

National Geographic Traveler (April, 2008) said it best when it added 21c to “The Stay List: 150 Hotels You Will Love.” The list features hotels with a “sense of place” – those that incorporate details of local surroundings, respect the environment and contribute to the community. Bentonville’s natural world is already secure. Including Alice Walton’s Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art along with 21c, the area’s cultural arc is spiraling upward. If Sam Walton were still around, he’d likely give this development a bold thumb’s up.

Fall 2013

Hutchinson Magazine

Art and nature

are natural draws in Bentonville along with a number of other can’t-miss attractions. 1. Sam’s Place

The Walmart Visitor Center is the real deal. Stop by and see how a simple five-and-dime evolved into a global empire championed by the Walton family. Step back in time and linger, and don’t forget to get a dip of your favorite at the Spark Café, housed in the same building. www.corporate.walmart.com

2. Stop and smell the roses

History buffs aren’t the only ones who will enjoy the Italianate villa-style Peel Mansion and Historic Gardens. The mansion, built in 1875, has been authentically restored and is open for tours and private events. www.peelmansion.org

3. Smoke signals

Photographs courtesy of Bentonville CVB

The Museum of Native American History is touted as one of the finest collections of Native American artifacts. Relics date from prehistoric through modern times. This walk-back-intime is comprehensive in scope, covering a vast amount of Native American tribal history. www.monah.us

4. A walk in the park

A devoted naturalist, Dr. Neil Compton is credited with saving Arkansas’ Buffalo River, but he also wanted to preserve the native woodland area in downtown Bentonville. His legacy lives on in the 6.5-acre woodland gardens he donated to the city. Enjoy a stroll in this lush oasis. www.peelcompton.org

5. Heavenly

Renowned Arkansas-born architect E. Fay Jones built a reputation for his soaring glass-paneled chapels. His Mildred B. Cooper Memorial chapel in Bella Vista is a must see for devotees of his signature “Ozark style.” www.beautifulbellavista.com

Fall 2013

hutch talks Tell us about RCAT. Reno County Area Transportation is a tremendous community asset that provides nearly 400 “first come, first serve” general public transportation rides daily. The program is funded through a Kansas Department of Transportation grant funneled from the Federal Transit Administration in a 70 percent to 30 percent match with Reno County. RCAT operates under the same federal regulation as the large public transportation systems like New York and Washington, D.C., and we do a lot of record-keeping. The RCAT fleet consists of 18 vehicles, which provide fixed route service, paratransit service to those who are ADA-qualified, and county route on demand. … RCAT enables people to go to work, shop, enjoy social outings and to reach medical services. Our county’s residents likely have many positive physical and economic health outcomes as a result of having ready access to public transportation.

You also work with the Department of Aging. In the Department of Aging, we serve people over age 60 with intake and referral for services. A major work focus is helping people who are turning age 65 navigate the complexities of transitioning to Medicare. There are so many variables involved that impact their choices and influence good decision-making at that time. We don’t advise people, but do help them get a clear and unbiased picture of how their work history, financial, income and health status should factor into their decisions. Baby boomers are creating a “silver tsunami” and aging is being approached differently than in the past, and we have the capability to help people chart a positive future.

What do you enjoy most about Hutchinson? Hutchinson is a great-size town in a great location. It’s not too big and it’s not too small. People have access to most of what they need or want right here, and it’s relatively close to metro areas. I like that it is centrally located within Kansas and within the U.S. … The people are kind, hard-working and generous. They try hard to get it right the first time.

Tell me about mustangs (the animal, not the vehicle!). I grew up with horses, but when I was

Barbara

Lilyhorn Director of Reno County Departments of Transportation and Aging Barbara Lilyhorn is a force to be reckoned with when it comes to transportation and senior services in Hutchinson. Originally from Nebraska Lilyhorn came to the Sunflower State to study at Kansas State University. She later obtained her master’s of public health through the University of Kansas School of Medicine. Her work has taken her to Fort Scott, Great Bend, Lawrence and now Hutch. “Working as the director of the Reno County Department of Aging and Public Transportation is different every day,” says Lilyhorn. “I like the diversity of each department’s work.”

Hutchinson Magazine

10 years old, during a family vacation, I saw a band of mustangs running in the wild and I was hooked—they were magnificent. I didn’t have the opportunity to adopt one until the Hutchinson Correctional Facility became a holding site for the Bureau of Land Management and started their training program. It’s quite a process. You have to apply and be approved before you can adopt. You have a probationary period for the first 12 months you have the horse. Your corrals and feeding program have to be acceptable, and you go through a site visit with an agent from the Bureau of Land Management at some point during this time. After 12 months you receive the title to the horse and they are finally yours. I adopted two young colts three years ago, and both are extremely gentle, intelligent and gorgeous. It’s pretty humbling to have these once-wild creatures become trusting, willing partners with you. Interview conducted and edited by Katy Ibsen. Photography by Brian Lingle

Fall 2013

Hutchinson Magazine

hutch talks What do you enjoy most about Hutchinson? This is a community that understands the value in investing in itself. The leadership of the business community contributes substantial time and financial resources to philanthropic organizations, community growth and local governance. It is the reason why we have so many top-tier attractions, amenities and recreation opportunities.

What is the most rewarding part about working for the Chamber? This organization is uniquely positioned to make a meaningful difference in the lives of everyone in the region. When our efforts at recruitment of a new business are successful, we have helped someone gain employment and advance their career. We assist existing businesses to grow and expand, creating more economic opportunity for both employees and business owner. And a growing business community generally equates to increased revenue for publicly funded entities; which means revenue to fund public infrastructure, schools and amenities.

What should Hutchinson businesses know about the Chamber? We are much more than a networking and marketing organization. While those are important functions of any Chamber, and we develop a very active calendar every year, the benefit and impact of Chamber membership extends beyond local interactions. We are first and foremost an economic development organization, and an advocate for a positive overall business climate. The Chamber’s economic development program does two things. We work with local employers to access resources and to grow; and market Hutchinson nationally as a viable location for business investment and expansion. Business climate advocacy simply means leveraging relationships and community resources to make business growth (and job creation) locally as easy as possible. That can include incentives and financial assistance, preparing community infrastructure, and providing business assistance managing regulatory challenges that can hinder growth. In my opinion, being an active member in the Chamber is a good investment for any business.

Jason

Favorite Hutchinson event or attraction, so far? Running is my passion, so the trail systems are important

ball

to me.

President and CEO of Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce

1) To be successful in recruiting new employers to town, and assisting the growth of businesses already in Hutchinson and Reno County. 2) To establish the Chamber as the voice for community leadership regarding the challenges we face. 3) To grow the membership base of the Chamber and expand the services and networking functions we provide to them.

Jason Ball and his wife, Sandy, may be recent transplants to Hutchinson, but that isn’t stopping them from immersing themselves in the community. As the new president and CEO of the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce, Ball is responsible for the operations of the entire organization. “My areas of focus tend to be the economic development and public policy functions, but our staff provides programming related to Conventions and Visitors Bureau attractions and community vibrancy, as well as the social and networking functions for members,” he says. As Ball continues to get his feet wet and explore the area with his family, which includes a newborn, he took some time to share some insight with Hutchinson Magazine.

If you had three wishes for your Chamber, what would it be?

Do you have a bucket list? What items are still on it? (No bucket list, but he’s got goals.) My goals are related to consistency over time. Continue to be the best husband and father I can. Provide community vision and leadership through Chamber work. Go running every day that I can. If I can look back on a career and life that shows that kind of legacy, I will be pretty happy. And I hope that I will have authentically made a difference in the lives of those around me. Interview conducted and edited by Katy Ibsen. Photography by Brian Lingle

Fall 2013

the “

end

I feel the community has really

embraced this business,

but I’m always trying to figure out ways to get others

in the door who don’t know or haven’t heard about us.

”

– Staci Garrett,

owner of White Lily Boutique

Stories submitted “The whole concept of a book store as a

community place, a gathering spot, a place for people to come together to grow, to learn, to be creative has huge value.”

– Melanie Green,

owner of Bluebird Books

Babies Born during Production

“Mondays are never slow d o w n d ay s . ”

one. “Artists – Aaron East,

Hutchinson Magazine

are such a solitary lot, so it helps to get together with kindred souls.”

– Jeanette Mull

Congrats to Graphic Designer Jenni Leiste and her husband Anton on the birth of their first child, Oliver, who arrived August 5.

Hutchinson Magazine

“ T h i s i s a c o m m u n i t y t h at u n d e r s ta n d s t h e va l u e i n

investing in itself.” – Jason Ball,

President and CEO of Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce

“We try to take time off, and we try not to talk about work around the dinner table, but it’s become our passion.” – Jeni Bryan,

co-owner of Jackson Meat

quote

2 Writers who pitched Bluebird Books

f o u n d o n fa c e b o o k

Places we want to visit:

“Another great issue: articles and photographs!”

Patsy Terrell, Deborah Walker, Aaron East and Brian Lingle Happy birthday,

Hutchinson Magazine and

Third Thursday!”

in Bentonville, Arkansas

- Gale Wall

dogs of HutcH

(lives on)! This season we only have one furry friend gracing our pages. Meet Jet, the Cooley’s border collie that is ready for his close up.

In light of our father/son feature,

here are some of our favorite father/son movies. It’s a Wonderful Life The Pursuit of Happyness

“He’s had a tremendous

impac t on my life.”

-Matt Stafford

How to Train Your Dragon Finding Nemo Field of Dreams Sleepless in Seattle October Sky Big Fish

on following in his father’s footsteps.

Fall 2013

best bets

Take Grandma and Grandpa to see the animals at the Hutchinson Zoo. Grandparents get a free train ride with a paid child (one free grandparent ticket per one paid child ticket), 1-4:45 p.m. (620) 694-2693

October 5

Grandparents Day at the Zoo

26 October

september

September

Buhler Frolic 2013

This community festival brings residents together for its 125th anniversary. Family events will abound along with a parade, carnival and the famous Pronto Pup. 7 a.m.-10 p.m. For more information, call (620) 727-5785.

6-15

Kansas State Fair Happy Birthday to the Kansas State Fair! This year marks the 100th birthday of the state fair, which is held locally at the Kansas State Fairgrounds. Enjoy flavorful concessions, live entertainment, the midway, the demolition derby and Toby Keith. The Kansas State Fair never gets old. www.kansasstatefair.com

september 22

Downtown Hutchinson Chili & Soup Festival

Join the fun and excitement at the annual Downtown Hutchinson Chili & Soup Festival. Taste the chili and soup and cast your vote for your favorite. Enjoy the shopping and entertainment. The festival will be located between Avenue C and Fourth Street on Main, 11:30 a.m.2 p.m. For more information, call (620) 662-3331

November 9 Wine in the Wild This classy evening of great food and great wine at Friends of the Zoo’s annual Wine in the Wild at Prairie Dunes Country Club. This event will benefit the Hutchinson Zoo otters; it will include dinner, music and a silent auction. Tickets are $50 per person and go on sale August 31 at the Zoo Gift Shop. Begins at 6 p.m.

Hutchinson Magazine

White Christmas

The Family Community Theatre presents White Christmas. Based on the beloved, timeless film, this heartwarming musical adaptation features 17 Irving Berlin songs including “Blue Skies,” “I Love a Piano” and “White Christmas,” a holiday favorite. Showing for two weekends. www.familychildrenstheater.com

2013 Christmas Parade The Annual Ad Astra Per Aspera Broadcasting Christmas parade in Downtown Hutchinson ushers in the holiday season, beginning at 10 a.m.

29 november

Evening Aglow

Run for the Rocks Half Marathon Join Hutchinson Recreation Commission and the Boys & Girls Club for the Run for the Rocks Half Marathon. Starting in Carey Park, the course will wind through Hutch’s great trail system and the beautiful neighborhoods of Old Farm Estates and Kisiwa, with a race-worthy finish inside Gowans Stadium. Registration required. www.runfortherocks.com

November

November 23

fall 2013

www.prairiedunes.com

Stutzmans Greenhouse transforms into a winter wonderland, illuminating its 35,000 square feet. Among the attractions will be live performances to inspire your holiday spirit. Begins at 5 p.m. www.stutzmans.com