Introducing the ‘Jack Wagon,’ the latest addition to PMMA’s fleet

The “Becky Buggy” was slowing down after many years of rides and trips around the campus. Enter the “Jack Wagon:” Salina Presbyterian Manor’s new oversized golf cart.

The Jack Wilson Charitable Trust granted the funds for the purchase in 2021, which will be used primarily to transport residents around the 42-acre Presbyterian Manor campus.

The gift is especially significant because Jack Wilson was a special character and friend to our community, a man Sarah Oenning, vice president of giving for PMMA (Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America®), described as adventurous and entrepreneurial.

He established the trust to serve organizations in the Salina community, including Presbyterian Manor.

The community has relied on the Becky Buggy for nearly 20 years. It was named for Rebecca Morrison, who, along with her husband Milton, was a resident and big advocate for Presbyterian Manor. The Morrison family funded the purchase of the original golf cart. Ever since, Betty Buggy rides have allowed staff members to take groups of residents for rides around the pond or out to the gazebo to see the geese or admire the foliage.

That tradition will continue with the Jack Wagon, which seats nine passengers.

The vehicle serves a practical purpose, too. The cart will be used as a means of transporting residents living in townhomes for visits to spouses who live in other parts of the community, and staff will also use it to deliver packages.

“Mobility and access are important quality of life elements for our residents,” Sarah said. “This golf cart is an important piece of transportation that also allows for mobility, recreation, and of course, laughter.

‍