November 2024 Issue
Business Spotlights
Magic Destinations with Kodi Pianalto
From coordinating patient care as a nurse to crafting seamless vacation experiences, Kodi Pianalto’s path to becoming a travel agent is a story of passion meeting purpose. In 2022, while meticulously planning a family trip to Disney World, Kodi discovered that what overwhelmed many—scheduling, logistics, and details—was something she genuinely loved. Juggling multiple itineraries for her parents, siblings, and their significant others, she found joy in the challenge. “I had spreadsheets for everything,” she recalls. “By the end, I was doing all the work and realized, ‘This is fun for me! I should be helping other families with this!’” That realization led her to Simple Magic Travel, where she now specializes in stress-free vacation planning, ensuring families and travelers can focus on making memories while she handles the details.
Keeping It Fuzzy @ the Fuzzy Buffalo
Tucked away in the heart of Salina, Oklahoma, The Fuzzy Buffalo is more than just a shop—it’s a nostalgic journey through time. Owned by Kevin Murphy, this charming store has become a haven for vintage lovers, collectors, and supporters of local artisans. With an eclectic mix of handmade soaps, antiques, and one-of-a-kind treasures, every corner of The Fuzzy Buffalo tells a story. Whether you're hunting for a rare find or simply soaking in the warm, nostalgic ambiance, this shop offers something special for everyone. In an exclusive interview, Kevin Murphy shares the inspiration behind The Fuzzy Buffalo, its impact on the community, and his exciting vision for the future. Click into this issue as we feel the heart and soul of this beloved local gem!
Multi-Passionate Entrepreneur Balancing Big Dreams and Small-Town Roots
Amanda Wilkinson’s entrepreneurial journey began behind the salon chair but quickly expanded into unexpected ventures. A passion for vintage finds led her to Vintage Market Days, where she now runs five franchise territories across the U.S. Alongside her market ventures, she operates The Local Petal floral business and a seasonal farm stand, blending creativity with community. Her story is a testament to embracing opportunity and following passions wherever they lead.
Our Unforgettable New England & Canada Cruise Adventure
When our travel agent, Kodi Pianalto, first recommended a New England and Canada cruise, I was instantly intrigued. Neither Clay nor I had ever ventured to that part of the world, but we’d often dreamed of witnessing the breathtaking fall foliage that New England is famous for. The idea of sailing through historic coastal towns, experiencing the crisp autumn air, and immersing ourselves in the charm of both New England and Canada felt like the perfect way to blend our love of adventure with our desire to explore new destinations. From the moment we booked the trip, anticipation set in—we knew this journey would be one for the books.