Gary Hawk intrigued Iola citizens during Friday’s meeting of See, Hear Iola. Hawk was the guest speaker and gave a talk on his work and achievements. OTHER Iola officials talked to the group about upcoming events. Firework sales start today and will go until July 5 at 5 p.m. Shelia Lampe said Farmers Market will be set up Thursday. The Elks’ fireworks display with start at dusk or 9:30 at Elks Lake on July 4 as well.
Hawk brought multiple visuals for the crowd to see and with the help of Elyssa Jackson, Allen County Historical Society director, explained the item’s purpose. Each item or photo had a story and history behind it. The crowd took special interest in his story of painting an ornament for the White House Christmas tree.
Hawk has worked for many places in the past like Hallmark and Boeing and he said he “loves making things.” He has met important people including U.S. presidents and Walt Disney.
“Work is not work for me,” Hawk said. “Work is a pleasure for me.”
He has created invention after invention and has designed everything from lanterns for Coleman, to knives and ice scrapers.
Hawk also expressed his love for Iola.
“It is such a blessing to be here,” he said. “You couldn’t blast me out of here with a stick of dynamite.”
Iola officer Mike Ford gave an update on the July 12-13 Charley Melvin. The run has about 200 pre-registered participants.
The next See Hear Iola meeting will be July 26.
Hawk tells colorful history
