By Joe Baker

Jim Hutchens really surprised the owners and customers at Jerry B’s restaurant in Kenedy when he landed his helicopter behind the restaurant on July 26.

"It scared me to death," said restaurant owner Lynn Brown. "I honestly thought it was a tornado."

Hutchens, president of Access Air, has been using his helicopter for seismic surveys in the area related to local oil and gas exploration. He decided to "drop in" to Jerry B’s and offer some of the folks a few rides.

Maggie Hunt was one of the lucky few who went for a ride.

"It was awesome," Hunt said. "It was my first helicopter ride. Tight turns were very weird, but I have never been as delighted! Jim Hutchens and his crew are great!"