Taking Care of Business: Design Electric of Madison

When you get photographers and lighting design experts in the same room together, there's a lot to talk about. After all, both professions involve sculpting with light. So when Design Electric of Madison called with a request to capture group and individual headshot portraits of their hard-working crew, Focal Flame Photography couldn't have been more delighted. 

For our Taking Care of Business series, we asked Design Electric representative Amy Larson for an inside look into the company. Here's what she had to say. 

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How  long has Design Electric been in business?
Design Electric was started in the spring of 2010.  RJ and Travis Larson created Design Electric of Madison with the goal of taking residential electrical design and installation to the next level in quality and creativity.

How  many  people work for the company?
We currently employee five full time electricians  and one part-time office position. 

What is Design Electric known for within your industry? 
We specialize in lighting design, installation and remodeling.  Currently there are very few electrical contractors that offer lighting design consulation.  We work very closely with our clients to seek out the best functional characteristics that are unique to our clients and their homes.  We pride ourselves on the personal service we give to each of our clients.

What do you find most exciting or fulfilling about the work you do?
The most enjoyable part of my day is spent meeting with clients and designing creative solutions to their lighting and electrical needs.  I love the challenge of helping them resolve often times distinctive and difficult electrical situations. The offering of lighting system design are somewhat unique in the industry and something Design Electric prides themselves in offering to its customers at no additional charge.  We keep up to date on the industry's new and exciting technological advancements and strive to use these advancements as creative and innovative ways to meet the client’s needs. 

What are some of the most frequent questions you hear about Design Electric? 
“Do you  do the installation too or just the design?” is probably one of the most asked questions. The others relate to data installations like phone and cable TV and speaker wiring, which we do perform.

What have been the most interesting trends you’ve seen within your industry? 
The advancement and utilization of LED lighting has been amazing. The speed in which the technology has been integrated into so many areas has brought some really exciting and challenging  processes to our industry.

Any challenges that your company has overcome that you’d like to share? 
Thankfully the largest challenge we have been faced with and have continued to battle with has been a very rapid growth. Thanks to the loyalty of our client base and their willingness to “spread the word” we have grown far more rapidly than we had planned. This, by the way, is a great “challenge” to be faced with!

Are there any ways that Design Electric tries to “give back” to the local community? 
We have been involved in many community projects as a team leader, financial contributor, and labor provider for Aaron’s House, Home Makeover, Hammer With a Heart, and Habitat for Humanity. 

What would you like people to know about Design Electric? 
We truly believe in exceeding our clients expectations of customer service.  We feel that great customer service is what you should EXPECT from your contractor. We will get to know you as a person so we may personalize our service to your particular style, needs, and lifestyle. 

Does your organization need updated headshot portraits? Our team of photographers would  honored to create them on site at your location or in our studio. Contact us today. 

Madison in Motion: One Photography Exhibit, Two Parts

motion (n.) 1. The action or process of moving or of changing place or position; movement. 2. Power of movement, as of a living body. (from Random House Dictionary)

 
Download catalogs of works available for purchase (PDF):

Madison in Motion Part I | Madison in Motion Part II

Many artists have a particular medium that feels like home. It might be oil paints, watercolor, textiles, digital pixels, or pen and ink. 

For artists with Focal Flame Photography, movement and light are the media of choice. It’s hard to explain, this feeling of returning to roots when depicting motion. But it has something to do with a deep understanding of rhythm and timing. And it has a lot to do with a propensity for observation. 

When you study human behavior from behind a camera lens for countless working hours, you begin to comprehend – and even predict – patterns of motion. People move with a studied elegance. Our belief is that it is based in an irrepressible joy that springs from kinetic energy.  

In fall and winter 2014, Focal Flame photographers offered a joy of their own: two art photography exhibitions in two locations. Titled “Madison in Motion, Parts I and II”, they investigated the meaning of motion as expressed within a defined geographical area.

Madison in Motion: Part I exhibited at UW Hospital during October, 2014. The exhibit included large-format canvas prints of photographs made by Focal Flame Photography founder Clint Thayer. 

“Madison is a city filled with everyday people that engage in athletic movement for a great many reasons,” said Thayer. “I wanted to honor that commitment to athletics by attempting to show their passion and dedication to push themselves further than they did yesterday, last week, or last year.” 

The images stepped the viewer through competitive phases. The images themselves were drawn from several different endurance sports. “There are aspects of sports that are universal, regardless of whether an athlete is a swimmer, cyclist, runner, or triathlete,” said Thayer. 

"Waiting" by Clint Thayer depicts a serene moment prior to a triathlon start. 

Madison in Motion: Part I depicted the anticipation of a race (“Waiting,” and “Spectators,”); the frenzy of beginning “(“Starting” and “Chaos,”), the mid-race deep introspection borne of physical suffering (“Focus,” “Breath,” “Driving Rain,” “Balance,” and “Pain,”) and the quietude of the final phase (“Sanctuary,” “Homeward,” “Return,” and “Contemplation.”) 

All works in Madison in Motion: Part I were presented as archival giclee prints on canvas, with dimensions up to 60 inches by 40 inches. “Only when printed at large format does the viewer begin to share the depth of experience that was lived by the athlete,” said Thayer. “For this reason, I felt that large format printing was critical for this series. It’s not as insistent in smaller format.”

Madison in Motion: Part II was a collaborative effort shared by three artistic forces within Focal Flame Photography: Austin Cope, Katie Richard, and Clint Thayer. 

Each photographer contributed five to six works. For Austin, it was an inaugural exhibition. His images also offered a unique interpretation of the concept of “motion.”

“[I had to] put together a cohesive sequence, [which] was a chance to go out on a limb and tell a more complete story,” said Austin. 

"Untitled I" by Austin Cope depicts the constant, unsettling, and frenetic motion of homelessness. 

Austin chose to use street photography to depict the frenetic movement inherent in the lives of homeless individuals in Madison. “These are images of real people in our city that probably have less than we do,” said Austin. “Above all else, I want viewers to come away with a better appreciation for what they've got and a renewed interest in giving to some charitable cause.” Choosing to leave all five of his images untitled, Austin paid tribute to the harsh reality of street life. 

Austin stretched himself while contemplating the composition of his images. “I used to hate square crops for no reason other than that they were hip,” he said. “Now I find them elegant. Challenge yourself to crop square for a while and I bet your compositions will improve.”

"Judges" by Clint Thayer dispelled the notion of an athlete performing in isolation.

Clint Thayer contributed a series of works focusing on another end of the socioeconomic spectrum: youth gymnastics. Since this competitive sport generally requires access to private lessons, gymnastics is, in a sense, a gated athletic community.  “I knew I wanted to attempt to tell a much different (and perhaps darker) story with my selections,” said Clint. “Because this was a joint show, we all had difficulties determining our narratives and how they would interrelate.  It was not until I had an opportunity to see Austin's and Katie's works did I know how to weave my contribution into the show,” he explained.

Clint’s sequence, shown in black and white, portrayed a vulnerable side of youth competitors who have devoted countless hours to developing agility, strength, and balance. While television views of gymnastics competitions may make it seem as if each athlete is performing in an isolated spotlight, Thayer’s compositions show that often they are demonstrating their skill within a few feet of teammates or competitors. In some scenes, teammates whisper behind cupped hands or level evaluative gazes, leaving the viewer to wonder who might be the more challenging judge – the competition officials, or the athletes’ peers. 

"No. 6" by Katie Richard provides an intimate view of individual striving. 

Katie Richard contributed the final sequence. During her study of collegiate league baseball as a photography intern with the Madison Mallards Baseball Club, Richard was surrounded by a sport that offers opportunity. The camaraderie of the team was juxtaposed with individual striving, a duality that is reflected in Richard’s images. “These [images] needed to be up close, personal, and showing an angle that only the team [members] could have,” said Richard. As a vantage point she chose the dugout, in line with first base. The resulting photographs give an intimate view into a sport that seeks to replace the anguish of the solitude shown in works by Thayer and Cope with a sense of completion, teamwork, and togetherness. 

In the end, Thayer found the intellectual exercise of bringing together three different artists’ visions to one of the most remarkable aspects of the project. “…I can see first hand the byproduct of the trust you gain in your colleagues through the process of working together,” he said. “Through the process of collaboration, we each had the freedom to tell a single component of the deeper, richer story.”

Photography Classes in Madison, WI: Our Philosophy

The crew here at Focal Flame Photography is passionate about learning, and we're passionate about photography. So when we developed a series of photography classes in Madison, WI as well as one-on-one photography lessons, we thought about our approach. A lot. In this article, lead instructor Austin Cope shares some of his ideas about teaching photography. 

Austin Cope, Focal Flame staff photographer and photography instructor extraordinaire. And a great all-around guy. 

What is your approach to teaching?
In a few words? My approach is responsive and simplified. 

Responsive in that I adapt my teaching style to fit each individual student's experience level, learning style, gear, and goals; and simplified in that I present only useful and practical information in terms that are easy to understand. 

What you want, the way you want it. 

It's been a successful approach for me.

Why do you teach?
Many reasons. Mainly, I find it genuinely rewarding to pass along knowledge to eager students excited to learn this stuff. There's some kind of “teaching high” that comes from making confusing/intimidating/overwhelming concepts “click” for someone. 

What can students expect from a lesson or a class?
Progress! After we establish where you're at and where you're looking to be, we'll jump into getting you there. Really, as soon as you demonstrate an understanding of the basics, the photographic world is your oyster. In lessons, we can cover just about anything in as great a depth as you'd like from there. In classes, we focus on a specific set of concepts - and have fun a the same time.

For students taking one-on-one photography lessons, how many lessons are generally needed to make progress?
I'm not exaggerating (or bragging) when I say one. Multiple tutoring sessions can be great because they further break up material and allow for things like critique, but even after a single session you'll be much further along than when you started. 

What kind of comments have you heard from past students?
Time for a blatant brag: feedback has been entirely positive. Which is good; it means I've helped people. 

A piece that's always stuck with me: one student said that I not only did a great job, but importantly, didn't judge her for not already knowing this stuff. You know that old teacher or professor you had back in school that knew a ton but made you feel like an idiot when you didn't? That's not what I'm about.

Getting better at something involves admitting a shortcoming and choosing to face frustration head-on. Every photographer's been there, including me, and I want to help you through it.

In the most fun and least unpleasant way possible. 

Focal Flame Photography will be offering two classes in January:

• DLSR Basics on Tuesday, January 13, 2015 at 6 pm ($45)
• Advanced Photography Techniques on Tuesdays, January 20 and 27, 2015 at 6 pm ($80)

Register now - enrollment is limited. Sign up for photography classes here. 

Feet for Dreams: MyTEAM TRIUMPH

What does it mean to give feet to dreams? Spend some time with MyTEAM TRIUMPH, and you’ll see. This non-profit organization pairs physically challenged individuals, referred to as Captains, with able-bodied athletes called Angels. Together, the teams participate in endurance events. In the process, they create bonds of friendship that change lives forever. 

Captains and Angels have made regular appearances before Focal Flame lenses – both during race season, and in a currently-under-production video project. (Stay tuned.) We recently caught up with MyTEAM TRIUMPH Central Wisconsin Regional Director Lee Dalgety as the organization geared up for its “Black Tie Tri Shorts Gala” on Saturday, November 22, 2014. 

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Focal Flame Photography: What are your most proud or favorite MyTEAM TRIUMPH moments from 2014? 
Lee Dalgety: Each race brings a different moment, as every time we see a special interaction between the captain and their athletes. If I was forced to pick I would say mine was watching two staff members not only attempt their first sprint triathlon but do it with a Captain. Their look of joy crossing the finish line was incredible.

Focal Flame: What goals does the MyTEAM TRIUMPH Central WI region have for 2015? 
Lee: Growth and inclusion. We would like more captains included in more races. We are increasing our number of races to 15 from 10 (we were [originally] only supposed to do 4) and [we] are constantly working with race directors to increase the numbers allowed to participate. We do consider the safety of the captains and participants, but there is definite room for growth.

Focal Flame: Were there any surprises or unexpected challenges faced this year? 
Lee: The biggest surprise was just how enthusiastically the community and race organizers embraced us. This led to the challenge of potential burnout. All of us are volunteers with regular day jobs and so we were finding there were more events than we could handle, and it was about getting the balance right.

Focal Flame: What would you like readers to know about MyTEAM TRIUMPH’s 2014 Captains?
Lee: They are the most inspirational group of people you will ever meet. I do not say this lightly. Most of them face challenges every day that you and I cannot comprehend, and yet look at them during events. Who has the biggest smiles?

Focal Flame: How about the MyTEAM TRIUMPH Angels this year - anything you'd like to highlight? 
Lee: I would like to thank the local running and tri clubs in particular. They have embraced the concept and made it their own. We have a little friendly rivalry going on and at the same time they are forming relationships with the Captains that go beyond just the race.

Focal Flame: What's the best way for readers to get involved in MyTEAM TRIUMPH? 
Lee: Please contact my self or any member of my team. There are three key ways they can get involved:

• Volunteer. These events are logistically challenging, especially with many Captains. The more hands the better.
• Become an Angel. We have events to fit all distances and proficiency. This is the best way to get to meet new people.
• Donations. We are a non-profit organization and rely on fundraising and donations to pay for event entries and the equipment the captains need.

Focal Flame: Given all the effort involved in leading a regional chapter, what motivates you?
Lee:  [I can sum this up with my experiences with] Captain Mike during the recent Twin Cities Marathon. He waved, smiled and roared at the crowd for 26.2 miles and they roared back. Lifting his arm is physically exhausting for him, but he did it every time someone cheered him on. I cried for the last two miles. That is what motivates me.

Focal Flame: If you could tell people just one thing about MyTEAM TRIUPH, what would it be?
Lee: Join us, it will change your life! 

Celebrate the achievements of the MyTEAM TRIUMPH Central Wisconsin Region at the “Black Tie, Tri Shorts” gala on Saturday, November 22! Proceeds will help the chapter prepare for an amazing 2015 season. Sign up here. Focal Flame Photography is honored to provide photography services at the MyTEAM TRIUMPH Gala. 

Honoring the Greatest: Madison Marathon Supports Badger Honor Flight

Contemplation and reflection among memorials in Washington, D.C. © 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Clint Thayer

Service. Commitment. Dedication. Sacrifice. 

These are words that have deep meaning to the running community. They are also integral to the U.S. military service personnel, veteran, and civilian support community. 

On November 9, 2014 – in honor of Veteran’s Day - both communities will join together in two ways. First, funds raised at the Madison Marathon will benefit its charity partner, Badger Honor Flight. Second, the official race starter will be Sgt. Ross Gundlach (retired, US Marine Corps) and retired military service K9 Casey, who worked together as a team while serving in Afghanistan. 

Explaining that the spring Madison Marathon events were chosen to coincide with Memorial Day and fall events with Veteran’s Day, Madison Festivals Inc. president Rita Kelliher said, “We chose a charity that would bring attention to the military veterans.” 

Kelliher had personal experience with Badger Honor Flight, which serves 11 counties in Wisconsin as part of the nationwide Honor Flight network. Badger Honor Flight is dedicated to ensuring that WWII, Korean War, and terminally ill veterans from any war have the opportunity to see the memorials in Washington, D.C., that have been erected in their honor. Four flights a year bring veterans and one companion each to Washington, D.C., where they visit war memorials and monuments on the Mallway and in Arlington National Cemetery. All expenses are covered for the veterans in gratitude for their service, and their companions pay a $500 fee out of pocket. 

How many veterans has Badger Honor Flight served? According to president Brian Ziegler, “A total of 1,514 so far. Our goal is to take every WWII and Korean veteran [in the region who applies],” said Ziegler. Each flight takes approximately 85 to 80 veterans, and the waiting list is currently over 500 veterans. “We’re flying as fast as we can,” said Ziegler. 

Considering the advanced age of World War II veterans, speed is of the essence. But the planning stage for each flight is orderly, not rushed. “Our planning really starts once we receive a veteran’s application,” said Ziegler. Each application is reviewed and prioritized, with World War II and terminally ill veterans receiving top placement due to urgency. A medical advisory team of “a couple dozen” healthcare providers also reviews applications to ensure that the rigors of travel would not weigh too heavily on the veterans. Once a flight spot becomes available, veterans and companions (referred to as guardians) are re-contacted to confirm their interest, availability, and whether they feel capable of traveling. 

“There are tons of memories” from the flights, said Ziegler, recounting a trip in which a father and son were met at the World War II Memorial by the late Senator Daniel Inouye. Sen. Inouye was the second longest-serving senator in U.S. history, representing Hawaii in the Senate from 1962 until his death in 2012. “The Badger Honor Flight veteran and Senator Inouye had both been in the same hospital together” after being injured during World War II, said Ziegler. 

As memorable as the nation’s capital might be for veterans, the return trip is often the highlight. “It all culminates in the welcome home at the airport,” said Ziegler. “I had a veteran at this last flight tell me that all he was expecting was his wife to pick him up at the airport.” Instead, he was met at the airport by a crowd of 5,000 people cheering - plus a brass band. 

For Ziegler, those moments are where it all the effort comes together. “A lot of these veterans never got the welcome home that others did,” he said. “They never got the ticker tape parade.”

Sgt. Gundlach and Casey on duty. Photo courtesy of Ross Gundlach.

For Madison Marathon official race starter Sgt. Ross Gundlach, a homecoming after serving on active duty in Afghanistan felt hollow and incomplete without the companionship of his military service canine, Casey. 

The pair had worked together as an IED detection team, relying on the incomprehensible sensitivity of Casey’s nose to warn of danger from explosives. “She was one of the best,” said Gundlach. “I wouldn’t be talking to you…or possibly be alive,” had it not been for Casey’s acumen in identifying IEDs. The bond between handler and K9 was so strong that Gundlach promised his dog that he would find her again after they both returned stateside. 

Gundlach was a man of his word. “We were separated 333 days from the time that I got back from Afghanistan,” he said. At that point, the tables were turned: Gundlach had to detect the whereabouts of his partner, albeit relying on networking rather than nosework. He located her in Iowa where she had been acquired by the Iowa State Fire Marshal's Office as an explosives detection service K9. 

Gundlach began a letter-writing campaign, explaining his commitment to his four-legged partner. Word spread to the Iowa Elk’s Association, a service group supporting veterans, who agreed to donate the $8,500 replacement cost for another service dog. Officials with the Fire Marshal’s Office then summoned Gundlach to the state Capitol in Des Moines for a surprise ceremony to reunite him with his beloved dog. When she saw Gundlach, Casey burst into a fury of joyful whimpering, tail-wagging, and face-licking. 

Today, Gundlach is a full-time student in Madison while he pursues a business degree. When not attending class, he cares for Casey. “I wake up, run together, we go to the park… Anything that’s not beneficial to her happiness I don’t do,” said Gundlach. 

As he cares for a K9 veteran, Gundlach is well aware of the work that Badger Honor Flight does to care for human veterans. “What they do is invaluable,” said Gundlach. “You’re talking about the greatest generation, and this particular war and the monument they’re going to see – people 70 and younger just can’t even imagine” the loss and sacrifices that occurred, particularly during World War II. “We owe it to them,” he said.

Gundlach and Casey will both be present at the start of the Madison Marathon to officially wish racers safe passage. 

He feels a kinship with runners, pointing out, “I can tell you running and the Marine Corps go hand in hand. If you weren’t a runner before you joined the Marines, well, you are now.” Standard training for dog handlers and their K9s is to run together five miles a day, five days a week. 

“The dogs will outrun the guys every time,” said Gundlach. 

The organizers of Madison Marathon encourage all participants to donate to Badger Honor Flight. A $5 donation can be made via cell phone by texting “FESTIVAL” to 20222.  Badger Honor Flight also needs energetic volunteers to assist with administration, medical, fundraising, and publicity to get the word out to get every veteran that wants to apply to go on a flight. For more information on volunteering with Badger Honor Flight, click here. 

- by Robyn M. Perrin

Madison Marathon Profile: Brent Kimbel and Bill Enright

If you’ve attended the Madison Marathon in the last few years, you may have seen Brent Kimbel (42) and Bill Enright (47) of Verona. They’re impossible to miss, because these gentlemen complete the entire race dressed head-to-toe as beer bottles. Their goal? To challenge others to have fun while they run. 

Focal Flame Photography, the official event photography service provider for the 2014 Madison Marathon events, asked Brent and Bill—also known by their alter egos, “Mich” and “Ultra”—about why they run in such spectacularly unique style.

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Mich and Ultra, otherwise known as Bill Enright (left) and Brent Kimbel (right), wave to fans during the 2014 Spring Madison Half Marathon. © 2014 Focal Flame Photography

Brent Kimbel gives a victory salute during the 2014 Spring Madison Half Marathon. © 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Clint Thayer

Focal Flame Photography (FFP): Do you participate in other similar events? 
Brent: I've run 12 half or full marathons, at least 6 in costume, including the 2008 Ironman in Arizona, a couple of Half-IronMans (Racine and High Cliff), a few shorter triathlons (Capitol View), as well as the Haunted Hustle, the Green Bay Marathon, and the Milwaukee Lakefront Marathons.
Bill: Eleven for me including IronMan Wisconsin 2006 and 2009, Milwaukee Lakefront Marathon, and a bunch of Half-Marathon and Adventure Races for years.

FFP: What does running and participating in events such as the Madison Marathon mean to you?  
Brent: Running in races such as this is a great way to put yourself in a very positive environment.  Everyone, racers and spectators alike, are out to have fun and are very encouraging to one another.  
Bill: It is the most healthy way to support our community events.

Bill Enright finishes strong at the 2014 Spring Madison Half Marathon. © 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Edward Esmao

FFP: With so many races to choose from, what makes the Madison Marathon special?  
Brent: When you run in a hometown race you see and run with a lot of your friends so it is more like a party. I also like that the half marathon is a springtime race [Editor’s note: the Half Marathon distance is now offered in both spring and fall]; it motivates you to get out and run after being locked up inside for such a long winter, especially this year.
 
FFP: Do you do anything to make the race more meaningful or fun? 
Bill: Brent and I make it a little more fun than your average racer! We started off running as Ketchup and Mustard (I was Mustard), finishing the race at the World Famous Brat Fest. Now that the event is sponsored by Budweiser, we dress up as beer bottles — Mich and Ultra.  
Brent: Many people we talk to come to the starting line with a goal of "just beating the beer bottles."  Luckily we're not super fast runners, so a lot of people walk away happy.  We have a lot of fun encouraging the other runners along the way too, especially first timers.  It's hard to think about the pain when you are joking around with guys who are cracking jokes.
Bill: We like to think that our presence has resulted in the fastest total combined times for any Half in the country. Just our comical presence motivates a lot of other runners — there is no way they will let themselves be beat by two dudes dressed up like anything. 

FFP: What would you tell other racers about participating in the Madison Marathon? 
Bill: Just DO IT!
Brent: It's a well-run, organized, enjoyable race. The fan support is terrific — the community really comes out to cheer everyone on.  It doesn't matter what time you finish in, just that you are giving it your all.
 
FFP: Is there anything else about your journey as a runner that you think we should know?  
Brent: When I stopped focusing on what my stopwatch read and just enjoyed the miles and the journey, running really became much more fun.  These days I don't even wear a watch.
Bill: If you are going to voluntarily do this to yourself you might as well make it fun.

This article is part of a series featuring athletes who are participating in a Madison Marathon event in 2014. The Fall Half-Marathon and Marathon races will occur on November 9 on the streets of Wisconsin's capitol city.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

- interview by Deborah Proctor

Madison Marathon Profile: Emily Kurian

Running is a family affair for Emily Kurian (age 30) of Madison, Wisconsin. Her journey as a runner started at a young age when her older brothers joined the junior high cross country team. She followed  in their footsteps. As wife of IronMan and accomplished regional runner Joe Kurian (winner of the 2006 Madison Marathon), Emily continues to race with the ultimate goal of maintaining a healthy lifestyle as a lifelong runner. She holds the title for 1st place woman in the 2013 Madison Marathon. Emily and husband Joe competed in the New York City Marathon on Sunday, November 2, 2014.

Focal Flame Photography, the official event photography service provider for the 2014 Madison Marathon events, asked her about why she runs.

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Emily Kurian and husband Joe Kurian celebrate at the Rock 'N Roll Marathon in St. Louis. Photo credit; David Mari

Focal Flame Photography (FFP): How many Madison Marathons or Half Marathons have you run?
Emily Kurian: I have run the Madison Half Marathon and Marathon, and will be taking on the Marathon again on November 9. (Editor's Note: Emily was the female winner of the 2013 Fall Madison Marathon, and 5th place overall.)

FFP: Do you participate in other similar events?
Emily:  Growing up in Springfield, IL, one of my favorite races is the Lincoln Presidential Half Marathon.  Having recently moved to Madison, I am participating in more local races such as the New Year's Day dash, Madison Half Marathon in the spring, Madison Mini Marathon in the fall, as well as the Syttende Mai 20K.  I have also gotten into some really great trail runs like Bear Trax 20K in Kettle Moraine Park. 

Emily Kurian (left-center, jumping) at the Green Bay Marathon. Credit: David Mari

Emily's Personal Story
FFP: What does running and participating in events such as the Madison Marathon mean to you?
Emily: When I was about 9 or 10, my older brothers joined the junior high cross country team.  I followed in their footsteps running cross country and track in high school and then continued to run cross country at St Louis University.   After college, I continued  to maintain my running to stay active.  While I have remained somewhat competitive and continue to race, my ultimate goal is to be a "lifelong runner" and  to maintain a healthy way of life.    

FFP: With so many races to choose from, why do you participate in the Madison Marathon? What makes it special?  
Emily: To have such an incredible event here in my backyard (somewhat literally), I couldn't NOT run it!!   Sharing the experience of running my daily routes through Madison with so many others is a thrill!   

FFP: Do you do anything special to make the race more meaningful or fun?
Emily: I am honored to have my husband, Joe Kurian, and his training partner, Thomas Brunold, both previous Madison Marathon winners, to train and race alongside me. They definitely help me through any rough spots along the way.  

FFP: What would you tell other racers about participating in the Madison Marathon?
Emily: The course is great — both scenic and challenging!  
This article is part of a series featuring athletes who are participating in a Madison Marathon event in 2014. The Fall Half-Marathon and Marathon races will occur on November 9 on the streets of Wisconsin's capitol city.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

- interview by Deborah Proctor

Madison Marathon Profile: Ashley Matthys

During her seventh grade year in her hometown of Zumbrota, MN, Ashley Matthys (now age 24) missed the deadline to sign up for the soccer team. She decided to run instead, sparking a fire of passion for the sport. Now, Ashley is looking forward to her first Madison Marathon this November. 

Focal Flame Photography, the official event photography service provider for the 2014 Madison Marathon events, asked her about the Madison Marathon and why she chose this event as her first full marathon race. 

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Ashley Matthys during the 2014 Madison Half Marathon (spring). Photo © 2014 Focal Flame Photography

Focal Flame Photography (FFP): How many Madison Marathons have you run?
Ashley: This will be my first! I ran the half marathon in 2013 [and spring 2014]. Now I'm ready to take on 26.2.

FFP: Do you participate in other similar events? 
Ashley:  I have run the Twin Cities Marathon and the Madison Half Marathon in 2013 [and 2014], as well as the Get Lucky half marathon in Minneapolis this spring.  I've run a number of shorter-distance races including the UW Valentine's Day 5K, the Crazylegs 8K, the Color Run, and the Ugly Sweater 5K.

ASHLEY'S PERSONAL STORY 
FFP: What does running and participating in events such as the Madison Marathon mean to you?
Ashley: Once I started running, I never looked back, running cross country in high school and then for Luther College in Decorah, Iowa.  

Running has become my getaway, my stress relief. It's how I've met some of my best friends (and my boyfriend!) and the way I've made a lot of my favorite memories. 

FFP: With so many races to choose from, why do you participate in the Madison Marathon?
Ashley: With a gorgeous view of the lakes and the Capitol, why wouldn't I? Madison has been my home for the past year and a half. It's where I trained for my first marathon. I know the loops around both lakes very well. I've heard great reviews from friends who have run it in the past and I'm ready to try out the course for myself. I'm excited to tackle the full marathon this fall!
 
FFP: Do you do anything to make the race more meaningful or fun?
Ashley: I train and run with Michelle, one of my best friends and a teammate from college, who's now at UW. Training would be so much harder without someone running alongside to help me push through those really hot or really cold days. We've gone on 20+ mile runs, early in the morning and really late at night, and covered miles all over the UW Arboretum, downtown, through campus, and on the East and West side. Running is how I've gotten familiar with the streets of Madison.
 
I appreciate the people who don crazy costumes for these events and provide much needed comic relief, but I stick to my comfort zone, wearing the same thing for every race - my lucky green shorts (green means go!) and my Luther College Norse alumni jersey.
 
FFP: What would you tell other racers about participating in the Madison Marathon?
Ashley: Running a marathon is a blast. 'Fun' might not be the first word that comes to most people's minds when they think of pounding the pavement for hours (more likely it's "painful" or "exhausting") but it really is a great time. After logging countless hours of solitary miles, it's like the whole city shuts down to throw you a big party and celebrate your accomplishment. Spectators are such a crucial part of a race; there's a big running community here and many people supporting the participants. 

FFP: Is there anything else about your journey as a runner that we should know?
Ashley: I'm planning to run the Boston Marathon in 2015!

This article is part of a series featuring athletes who are participating in a Madison Marathon event in 2014. The Fall Half-Marathon and Marathon races will occur on November 9 on the streets of Wisconsin's capitol city.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

- interview by Deborah Proctor

Madison Marathon Profile: Anthony Garcia

Runner Anthony Garcia (26), Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, did not always think of himself as an athlete. "I was barely able to make three plays in touch football in college," he said – but Garcia decided to focus on his health and started running. After starting with fun runs, color runs, and mud runs, he got "pumped" for the first portion of the Conquer the Capitol challenge: completing both the Twilight 10K and Madison Half Marathon back-to-back. 

Focal Flame Photography, the official event photography service provider for the 2014 Madison Marathon events, asked him about the Madison Marathon and why he chose it as his first long-distance race. 

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Anthony's Personal Story

On May 24, Anthony Garcia ran the Madison Marathon Twilight 10K, racing through the downtown streets at nightfall. © 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Paul McMahon

Focal Flame Photography (FFP): What does running and participating in events such as the Madison Marathon mean to you?
Anthony: I love the competition of the race — not just against other runners but against your own mind. Being able to break through the barrier of your mind telling you to slow down or stop is a great feeling.

FFP: Do you participate in other similar events? What are a few of your favorites?
Anthony:  I've done the Warrior Dash in Illinois, Beach Dash in Chicago, and Color Run in Milwaukee as fun runs. The Warrior Dash was my favorite because of the combination of challenging obstacles and mud. I also did the Lucky Leprechaun 7k and Frostbite 5k, here in Wisconsin, and I travel to Iowa annually to do the Bix 7 race with family.

A mere twelve hours later, Garcia raced the Madison Half Marathon, finishing strong under a warm early summer sky. © 2014 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Edward Esmao

FFP: With so many races to choose from, why did you choose to participate in the Madison Marathon? 
Anthony: What makes it special? My co-workers who have run the Madison Half Marathon before had mentioned that it is a challenge because of the hills. I was interested in a good challenge for my first half marathon. 

FFP: Do you do anything to make the race more meaningful or fun? 
Anthony:  I've been racing with my co-workers — it adds another level of competition and some bragging rights around the office.

FFP: What would you tell other racers about participating in the Madison Marathon?
Anthony: The "Conquer the Capitol" — a back-to-back 10K twilight run and half marathon in the spring, and a full marathon in the fall —offers a great opportunity to push yourself. The two back-to-back races took all I had; perhaps next year I will add the fall marathon and truly conquer the capitol.

FFP: Is there anything else about your journey as a runner that you would like to share? 
Anthony: I never would have thought I could become a runner. In college I was over 300 pounds. After graduation I began focusing on my health and getting into better shape. Now over 100 pounds lighter I'm pumped to challenge myself to complete. Anything is possible if you put your mind to it and work hard.

This article is part of a series featuring athletes who are participating in a Madison Marathon event in 2014. The Fall Half-Marathon and Marathon races will occur on November 9 on the streets of Wisconsin's capitol city.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

- interview by Deborah Proctor

Madison Marathon Profile: Jan Hagen

Madison athlete Janet (Jan) Hagen, age 65, is an avid runner. Between 2000 and 2003 she completed a marathon in each of the 50 states plus the District of Columbia. Hagen is headed for a triple-digit accomplishment: she will celebrate the completion of her 100th marathon when she crosses the Madison Marathon finish line on November 9th, 2014.

Focal Flame Photography, official race photographers for the 2014 Madison Marathon, asked Jan about her love of the sport.

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Jan Hagen competing in the 2013 Lake Monona 20K race. © 2013 Focal Flame Photography | Photo credit: Clint Thayer

Focal Flame Photography (FFP): You have completed four Madison Marathons. What other running events are your favorites?
Jan:  I have qualified for the Boston marathon and completed the race in 2012. Local favorites include:  Madison Mini Marathon, High Cliff Half-Ironman Triathlon, Green Lake (Ripon) Half Marathon, Silver Lake Triathlon, Lake Winneconne Triathlon, Chicago Half-Marathon, Wo Zha Wa Days Half Marathon, Syttende Mai 20 mile run, and Lake Monona 20K.

Jan Hagen's Personal Story

FFP: What does running in events such as the Madison Marathon mean to you?
Jan:  I enjoy setting fitness and wellness goals and the sense of accomplishment in achieving those goals.  

FFP: With so many races to choose from, why do you participate in the Madison Marathon?
Jan:  I have lived in Madison for over 30 years and have walked or run much of the marathon course at various times.  Running the Madison Marathon is a way to reflect on my past and the city's history and share in the excitement and energy of being a part of this great community. 

FFP: Do you do anything to make the race more meaningful or fun?
Jan: I like to get in the spirit of a run on holidays and dress accordingly.  It is fun to see the creativity of other runners and the costumes they devise.  When I ran the Chicago Marathon in 2000 (it was held just before Halloween that year), a group of runners ran as a pumpkin: 8 runners together under a large orange canopy, each of them wearing a green “stem” hat. Now, that's teamwork in many senses of the word!!

FFP: What would you tell other racers about participating in the Madison Marathon?
Jan: The Madison Marathon is special because it is a way to “showcase” the city to runners from other regions, states and countries.  It is a fun race, with a lot of variety and good crowd support.  

FFP: Is there anything else about your journey as a runner that you would like to share?  
Jan:  After completing my 100th marathon, I plan to continue running but in shorter distance races. Having been diagnosed with and successfully treated for thyroid cancer two years ago, and osteopenia and arthritis for the past several years, I am motivated to pursue a healthy lifestyle that includes running.  Once I can't run anymore, I plan to take up other fitness endeavors appropriate for my health status and hopefully inspire others to be more aware of how fitness contributes to a fulfilling lifestyle.

Jan's response to our questions included this inspirational quote:
"Winners are too busy to be sad, too positive to be doubtful, too optimistic to be fearful, too determined to be defeated."  - Anonymous

We salute Jan and all participants in the Fall Madison Marathon – whether the event is your first or 101st, we celebrate your accomplishment!

This article is part of a series featuring athletes who are participating in a Madison Marathon event in 2014. The Fall Half-Marathon and Marathon races will occur on November 9 on the streets of Wisconsin's capitol city.  For more information or to register, visit Madison Marathon.

- interview by Deborah Proctor