Hallmark Visitor Center
Kansas City
Hallmark’s rich history started when Joyce C. Hall began peddling postcards and eventually added greeting cards to his Hall Brothers business in 1912. Since then, Hallmark has become a world leader in the greeting card and collectible business. A visit to the Hallmark Visitor Center at the company’s Crown Center headquarters in Kansas City gives visitors a glimpse into the company’s history and culture.
Always in a festive spirit, the visitor center recently installed an exhibit of “Keepsake Santa” ornaments that have been produced over the years. All year long, a dozen themed Christmas trees are on display. It all started when the annual Christmas card given to Hall became too large due to the thousands of employee signatures. The idea of gifting Hall a decorated tree created by Hallmark artists turned into a tradition.
“During the holiday season, a Hallmark artist decorates the visitor center with wreaths, lights and ornaments,” said spokesperson Ron Worley. “The lobby’s large Christmas tree is decked with current Hallmark products, such as ornaments or small stuffed animals.”
Groups can meet the creators of some of the company’s most popular products Monday through Friday. The center brings in a writer, an illustrator, a designer, a photographer or a sculptor to talk about the creative process. Groups also enjoy seeing the bow-maker, a machine that, at the push of a button, makes a star-shaped ribbon bow for a souvenir.
Hallmark’s television prowess is evidenced by the Emmy award on display. Classic clips are shown from “Hallmark Hall of Fame” films at a touchscreen kiosk.
www.hallmarkvisitorscenter.com
Endangered Ark Foundation
Hugo, Oklahoma
Animal lovers will enjoy heading to the nonprofit Endangered Ark Foundation that supports endangered Asian elephants. From the organization’s beginnings in 1993, its 200 acres have provided a retirement ranch for performing elephants. In October, the foundation’s first fall festival will offer weeklong activities: hay mazes, hay rides, local musicians, educational elephant tours and a “Trunk or Treat” finale.
“Tours get up close and personal to the elephants like few places do,” said director Arlinda Copeland. “We talk about conservation efforts and hope people leave becoming ambassadors for these magnificent animals.”
www.endangeredarkfoundation.org
