Kansas Profile

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CLEMENTS WELDING AND SUPPLY – Rory Clements and his son Remington are mechanically skilled. They went into business together as Clements Welding and Supply and have grown their metal fabrication and design business to the point that they have shipped products from California to Michigan. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says their focus is on trailers and trucks and that they do a lot of work on grain trailers and end dump trailers.

THOMAS EISENBARTH – GROUNDED AG – Thomas Eisenbarth experienced the stress of farm life first-hand, growing up on a farm and having an uncle who took his own life. As a farmer, he experienced intense pressures himself. He finally went to see a therapist and realized there was great need for mental health outreach in the ag community. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says Eisenbarth became a certified Mental Health First Aid provider and founded Grounded Ag, a mental health assistance enterprise focused on agricultural producers and families.

LANCE STAFFORD – CLOVERTON – Last week, learned about Lance Stafford being an accomplished muralist and that he was also in a band. He enjoyed writing and performing contemporary Christian music at a local church. After winning a Nashville music contest, he and his bandmates christened their group, Cloverton, and have traveled the nation performing music. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says Cloverton got a song on KLOVE radio and scored the number one most downloaded song in the history of KLOVE.

LAYNE STAFFORD – MURALS – Layne Stafford enjoyed drawing as a kid and graduated from K-State in art education. After graduation he worked part-time at a middle school. The principal asked him to do a painting of the school’s mascot on the cafeteria wall. After doing other small projects, Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says Stafford decided to go into it full-time. For more than 20 years, he has worked as a freelance muralist and created works for a variety of clients as far away as South Dakota. He typically completes four to five projects a year. Some of these murals are as big as 100 feet wide and 20 feet tall.

LITTLE RIVER DEVELOPMENT GROUP – When Little River’s locally owned telephone cooperative sold its share of a large cell phone business, company leaders recommended that the profits go into a community fund. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says that resulted in the Little River Community Fund, which has been used in several ways, including addressing the community’s critical housing needs.

MIKE BALL – REMOTE WORKER – Mike Ball was working as a software developer in Arizona when the Covid pandemic hit and his entire office went virtual. He took the opportunity to move to Kingman, Kansas, where he continues to work and thrive as a remote worker. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, details his journey to Kansas and the advice Mike has for those considering remote work.

WADE NEWLAND – NEWLAND AG DRONES – Wade Newland was always interested in ag technology while growing up on the farm. After moving back to his home area after college and working in ag sales, he purchased an ag drone to use for spraying pastures and crops. When he needed parts, they were hard to find. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says that’s when Wade decided to develop his own ag drone sales and service company and is building a dealer network.

KANSAS MUSEUM OF HISTORY – Sarah Bell became director of the Kansas Museum of History while it was in the process of a $7 million renovation. Following three years of work, the museum has reopened for visitors. As part of the renovation, the museum displays are organized thematically, rather than chronologically. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says long-time favorites remain on display, such as the 1860s log cabin and the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe train engine.

CHARLES MARLATT – FOOD PROTECTOR – In a follow-up to last week’s Kansas Profile on David Fairchild, an historic food explorer for USDA, we learn about his boyhood friend, Charles Marlatt, who was very interested in insects and became an entomologist with USDA. He led the efforts for Congress to institute a plant inspection program to protect domestic crops from imported pests or parasites. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says both men contributed to the strength and productivity of American agriculture. One’s role was to diversify America’s food supply, and the other’s role was to protect it.

DAVID FAIRCHILD – FOOD EXPLORER – When international guests would visit the family home of George Fairchild, the third president of what is now Kansas State University, his son, David, was intrigued by stories of foreign travel and exotic plants. As a young man, he set out on a career to discover new plants and new foods to enhance and diversify the American diet, visiting more than 50 countries. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says David Fairchild helped bring kale from Croatia, mangoes from India, cotton from Egypt, hops from Bavaria, peaches from China, avocados from Chile, and many more.

PHOTO REPAIR BY AUDRA – When Audra Agin put together family photos for a scrapbook, she wasn’t pleased with the photo quality, so she researched ways to digitally enhance and restore those photos. It went so well that she founded a company called Photo Repair by Audra. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says the company specializes in photo restoration and repair, digitization, scanning and more.

CODY STUFFLEBEAN – K-STATE FOOTBALL – Cody Stufflebean, a defensive end and a two-time captain on the Kansas State University football team, was involved in one of the more unusual plays this past season. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says that on Senior Day, Stufflebean and defensive tackle Uso Seamalo were placed in the offensive backfield to open the path for the running back to score the go-ahead touchdown. Ron takes a closer look at Stufflebean’s career with the Wildcats.

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12-26-25

RUNNING IN BORROWED SHOWES – As a child, Thane Baker dreamed of becoming an Olympic runner. The was put on hold when the hammer claw from the hammer he was using flew off and pierced his knee. Over time, Baker recovered and was given permission to return to sports. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says Baker walked on at Kansas State College and won 10 Big Eight titles. He also achieved his childhood dream of being an Olympic runner, winning a silver medal in 1952 and three more medals in 1956.

2C FARMSTORE – HILL CITY – Claire Roberts had the idea of a store where she could sell fresh meat from their family’s farm. In response to customer demand, that store has transitioned to offering baked goods and premade meals which are available to customers 24-7. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says the combination of convenience and homemade quality is making a difference. In 2024, the store received a business award from the Kansas Department of Commerce.

DARRELL WESTERVELT – BLUEVILLE NURSERY – Darrell Westervelt, the retired owner of Blueville Nursery near Manhattan, turned 90 years old on April 28, 2025. After purchasing the nursery in 1962 and retiring in 2000, his son Keith became president and CEO as he is today. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says one of Darrell and Keith’s favorite sayings is that they are in the people business, not just the plant business. That philosophy has helped the business succeed.

CHRISTMAS AT PUMPKIN PANTS RANCH – After John and Shelley Gardner completed a pumpkin patch on their land near Arkansas City in 2023, they decided to do a Christmas celebration in December. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says that has now grown to include Santa’s workshop, Winter Wonderland, thousands of lights, treats, and a host of activities during the first three weekends of December.

ANNA MARTIN – WEIGHTLIFTER – Last week we met Cindy and Phil Martin whose daughter Anna became a weightlifter. After a remarkable collegiate career as a weightlifter, Anna now operates her own training facility in Mission, Kansas where she’s coaching more than 100 athletes, ages 6 to 79. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says Anna has coached more than 30 National Champions and was named AAU Coach of the Year in 2008.

CINDY MARTIN – ARTIST – Cindy Martin is an accomplished artist. She also loves horses and weightlifting. Her favorite medium is oil on canvas which she produces and sells. Martin has produced custom paintings for the Oz Museum, book covers, illustrations, and other museums, private homes, and churches. After Cindy had a cancer diagnosis, she was going to Kansas City for treatments. She stayed with her daughter, Anna, and she taught her about weightlifting. Eight months later, Cindy was cancer-free. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says Cindy became so interested in weightlifting that she competed at the Masters level, for those age 35 or older, and won a bronze medal at the world competition in Australia.

McCARTY FAMILY FARMS – In 2000, the McCarty family relocated their dairy from Pennsylvania and opened it in northwest Kansas. The multi-generational McCarty Family Farms includes five dairies, a milk condensing plant and a grain storage facility, as well as 230 employees and more than 32,000 animals. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says McCarty Family Farms was recognized at the 2025 World Dairy Expo as Dairy Producers of the Year.

RIDE FOR VETERANS – James Greer is a combat veteran. After serving five years during Operation Desert Storm and rising through the ranks to become a specialist and platoon leader, he returned to Fort Riley, met his wife and settled in nearby Leonardville to raise a family. In 2021, his wife showed him an article that stated, on average, 22 veterans commit suicide each day. It was profound moment that changed everything. He decided to try to ride his Enduro dirt bike to the Arctic Circle in 22 days – one day per suicide. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says this led to the creation of the organization known as Ride for Veterans.

PASSIVE HOUSE ENERGY EFFICIENCY – Mike Gillespie grew up in the 1970s when the nation’s energy crisis made him energy conscious. Following a military career, he retired to Riley County and wanted to build a passive house that was highly energy efficient. With help from a Manhattan architect and other partners, Gillespie and his wife built a passive house and now their electric bills are the lowest they have ever been. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says the Gillespie’s learned there were steps they could take to improve energy efficiency, without having to meet the standards for an official passive house and that a few small changes can make a big difference.

ADVANTAGE ARCHITECTURAL WOODWORK – Bob Holloway enjoyed woodworking as a 4-H project. After learning about a European process for creating highly energy efficient windows and doors, he realized he could use his woodworking skills to create his own manufacturing business. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says this rural Kansas business produces high quality window and door systems that have gone across the nation and beyond.

LECOMPTON: WHERE SLAVERY BEGAN TO DIE – In the bitter political debates of the 1850s, one city’s name was particularly prominent: Lecompton, Kansas. Lecompton would be named the capitol of Kansas territory after a pro-slavery constitution was adopted following a rigged election, but this would be rejected by Congress. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says these actions would lead to the beginning of the Civil War.

FALL COLOR FARMS AND CREEKSIDE – After studying horticulture at Kansas State University, Scott Howe started a landscape business and then a tree farm. His daughter, Miah, decided to come back home to start a U-Pick apple orchard, produce market and event venue under the guidance and partnership of her father. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says Miah is excited for the U-pick apple operation where they’ll have 17 different varieties to choose from in the fall, along with fresh-made cider donuts and blueberry donuts.

GEORGIA ZAVALA – ETZANOA CONSERVANCY – As a college student, Georgia Zavala participated in an archeological dig at sites near Arkansas City where some believe there was a settlement known as Etzanoa, an ancestral Wichita native village site which is believed to have been active from around 1450 to 1700. Today, she directs the Etzanoa Conservancy, which seeks to promote and share this history. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says modern day archeologists have found thousands of artifacts in the region.

KANSAS/AMERICAN AGRI-WOMEN – After growing up on a farm and marrying a farmer, Jean Goslin became active in the Kansas and then American Agri-Women organization. As national vice-president for education, she has worked on creative ways to educate consumers nationwide about agriculture. Today, American Agri-Women is the nation’s largest coalition of farm, ranch, and agribusiness women with more than 20 affiliates and members in 42 states. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says that in November the national convention of AAW will be held in Kansas City.

PRICKLY PEAR FARM AND HOME – After graduating from Kansas State University, Ellie Bowman wasn’t sure what she wanted to do with her agribusiness degree. Then a lumberyard came up for sale in a rural community near her hometown. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says Ellie and her parents bought the lumberyard and reorganized and reset the store with a fresh look. The result: they doubled business in their first year.

GOLDEN WAVES GRAIN – When Tony Adams was visiting Goodland, he learned about a farmer-owned edible bean processing business and thought a similar model might work for processing wheat. Years later he partnered with those farmers and others to create an integrated wheat milling and baking facility in Goodland. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says it’s the only such commercial facility in the state.

RURAL HOSPITAL DRONE DELIVERY – Hospitals typically utilize a pneumatic tube system that quickly and easily transports lab samples, medications and documents between departments. But what about when medical facilities are located in different towns? John Fitzthum, CEO of the Community HealthCare System in northeast Kansas, says they’ve talked about the need for a tube system in the sky and he was excited about a proposed test to use a drone to deliver medical equipment to his hospital in Onaga. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says that on August 12th a drone made the state’s first-ever long-range delivery of medical supplies to a rural hospital.

PUMPKIN PANTS RANCH – John and Shelley Gardner enjoyed taking their two little boys to pumpkin patches. In 2009, they bought land that ultimately became the Pumpkin Pants Ranch. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says the ranch includes more than 30 attractions and has attracted visitors from across the nation and overseas.

JOHN KRAMER – J-SIX ENTERPRISES – After graduating from Kansas State University and working for a hog producer in Illinois, John Kramer came back to northeast Kansas to farm. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says John’s journey, described in the book “Thirty Pigs and a Plan,” includes growing and developing an agricultural operation for his family.

THE WEST RILEY IN DEXTER – Kendra Riley moved back to her hometown to join her mother in starting a furniture upholstery and restoration business, as well as marketing antique furniture and home décor items. The mom-and-daughter business has done projects for customers from Tennessee to California. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says they credit the skills they learned in 4-H and the Kansas Agriculture and Rural Leadership program for helping to make their business a success.

SANTA Fe TRAIL SYMPOSIUM – The Santa Fe Trail has a rich history. Mark Brooks and his sister, Sharmon Richardson, are Santa Fe Trail history buffs in Council Grove. So, it’s fitting that they’re co-chairing the 2025 Santa Fe Trail Symposium that is taking place in Council Grove in mid-September. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says the symposium involves nine days of related activities.KAN

KEVIN AND CHRISTINA MILLER – UNEAK WOOD – As a kid in Kentucky, Kevin Miller enjoyed working with wood. After he and wife moved to Kansas, the Millers started building gazebos and later opened a large retail store offering one-of-a-kind, handmade Amish-made furniture and more near Wamego. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says this business is truly unique.

RURAL EDUCATION AND WORKFORCE ALLIANCE – Kyla Keller took on the role of coordinating a new Rural Education and Workforce Alliance initiative for the Dodge City/Ford County Development Corporation in 2019. Among other accomplishments, Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says the initiative has grown its annual career day participation from 50 students to 1,826.

MAJESTIC SERVICE TRUCK STOP – Bud Erskin repurchased a gas station that he had previously owned in St. Francis and remodeled it into a convenience store, truck stop and restaurant. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says it has become an award-winning gathering place for the community. In addition to fuel, they offer convenience store items, pizza, sub sandwiches, and a full-service sit-down restaurant with a full breakfast daily.

ARTHUR CAPPER– MAKING A DIFFERENCE – Famed Kansas newspaper publisher and two-term governor Arthur Capper’s efforts to support youth merged into what became the 4-H movement. After observing children with special needs, he founded a philanthropy known today as the Capper Foundation. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, takes a closer look at the life of a man who has changed so many lives.

LARK VALLEY FARMS – Kendall Hodgson’s commitment to taking care of the land is highlighted in his family’s south-central Kansas farm, Lark Valley Farms, which has been passed down through the generations. They’ve been early adapters of conservation practices, no-till farming and growing Enogen corn. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says that today Lark Valley Farms, near Little River, produces soybeans, sorghum, corn, wheat, bromegrass and alfalfa with a 130-cow herd.

KANSAS EXPORTER OF THE YEAR – Paul Kaeb, the president and CEO of KSI, was recently named Kansas Exporter of the Year. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says the award recognizes the innovative conveyor belt system Paul developed to move seed efficiently.

SMART WAREHOUSING – Kansas farm boy Carl Wasinger set out to develop a data-based, online inventory management system through a series of warehouses. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says today Carl’s company, Smart Warehousing, manages more than 11 million square feet of space and more than a thousand employees across the nation.

JIM SIPES – SIPES SEED SALES – Jim Sipes, a fifth-generation farmer in Stanton County, is working to make it possible for future generations to farm successfully. In addition to the family farming operation, which consists of wheat and grain sorghum production, Jim has served on the Kansas Farm Bureau Board of Directors since 2009. Ron Wilson. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says Jim is especially proud of a program that provides health care coverage at a reduced cost which has reduced the cost for young farmers and ranchers.

HARRY WHITNEY– MANHATTAN – From flying with the Air Force to Casablanca, and riding a Brahma bull in parades, Harry Whitney of Manhattan, has had a long and varied career of experiences. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says one experience – how he met his future wife – may be his most memorable experience.

CAPTURING THE STORY OF NICODEMUS – After moving back to Kansas, Angela Bates led the founding of the Nicodemus Historical Society. She retired in 2024 and recently produced the documentary film, Ellis Trail to Nicodemus: The Journey to the Promise Land, about the travel of those who founded the community. Bates’ ancestors were among those who first came from Kentucky by train and got off at Ellis. From there, Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says they walked and rode wagons to the townsite of Nicodemus.

IRRIGATION ALES – CRAFT BREWING – Luke Mahin of Courland enjoyed home brewing so much that he and his wife, Jennifer, started their own craft brewing business known as Irrigation Ales, which honors the significance of surface irrigation in their region. One of their creations, Grape Expectations, was recently named one of the top nine beers of 2024. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, has more.

MOUNT MITCHELL – WABAUNSEE COUNTY – Mount Mitchell Heritage Prairie Park in Wabaunsee County has a rich history, beginning with the Native American tribes who lived in the region. After European settlement, the Underground Railroad became active. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says other aspects of the park include the ranching, geology, and landscape of the tallgrass prairie itself. A celebration of the most recent park enhancements will be held June 21st.

ORPHAN TRAINS AND STATUES – When a visitor’s center was added to the National Orphan Train Complex in Concordia, a handful of statues were added as well. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says this inspired the addition of several other statues around the community which help share the remarkable story of the orphans who came more than a century ago.

NATIONAL ORPHAN TRAIN COMPLEX – A lecture at Cloud County Community College on the history of orphan trains spurred interest in Concordia about the trainloads of homeless children who were transported by railroad from big cities in the east to new homes in the west. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says that led to the creation of the National Orphan Train Complex in Concordia.

CONNECTING ENTREPRENEURIAL COMMUNITIES – Kingman has been selected to host the state’s first-ever Connecting Entrepreneurial Communities conference in June. Kingman’s economic development director, Leslie Schrag, says the conference is designed to promote rural communities while highlighting people, businesses and best practices for creating an entrepreneurial mindset. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says Kingman is an excellent choice to host the conference.

DAN BROOKS – STRAND THEATER – Dan Brooks and his wife Kelsey Mai are the managers of the Strand Theater in Sharon Springs. Kelsey’s father ran the projector at the Strand Theater years ago. The theater has been remodeled and is staffed by volunteers. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says the theater shows movies each weekend.

THE HISTORIC CLYDE HOTEL – Patrick and Jolene Girard purchased a historic hotel in downtown Clyde and have modernized the infrastructure while retaining its historic flavor. The original brick part of the hotel building was constructed in 1870. A kitchen and dining room were added in 1912. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says the Clyde Hotel has three standard rooms, two queen rooms, two king rooms, and two double queen rooms – each with a private bath. Guests from as far away as England and Australia have stayed at the hotel.

MAMMOTH MOUTH FREEZE-DRIED CANDY – Former science teacher Sammy Mills tried freeze-drying candy and it was a big hit with her customers. Now Mammoth Mouth freeze-dried candy and other products are being shipped all over the country. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says the company is also expanding its product line to include freeze-dried fruit which is said to retain much more of the fruit’s nutritional value than when it is dehydrated.

CROSS COUNTRY GENETICS – Cross Country Genetics is helping to multiply the miracle of birth, specializing in top quality genetics for cattle producers throughout the Midwestern United States. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says the IVF side of the business has doubled, and it is now possible to determine and select the gender of the embryo. It is also possible to create twins from a single embryo with an intervention at a particular time.

TIM MOHN – MERCHANT CYCLES – Tim Mohn participated in the first Flint Hills gravel bicycle race 19 years ago. It went so well that not only did it become an annual event, it encouraged Tim and partners to open a bike shop of their own in Emporia. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says Merchant Cycles specializes in all types of gravel cycles and related products.

UNBOUND GRAVEL BICYCLE RACING – Bicycling on gravel has become its own specialized sport, something between road racing and mountain biking. Emporia, which hosts Unbound Gravel the weekend after Memorial Day, has been so successful with its race that it’s become known as the gravel bike racing capitol of the world. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says the event attracts participants from 50 states and more than 40 countries.

MEGA PINES MINI GOLF – Kelli and Todd Miller are owners of Mega Pines Mini Golf, a new attraction located near Andover that combines mini golf and national parks. Rather than a typical concrete base which cracks due to the freezing and thawing of Kansas winters, Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says this course is designed with a permeable base so that the water passes through.

KANSAS HUNTERS FEEDING THE HUNGRY – A magazine article inspired Tony DeRossett to pursue a program in which harvested deer could be donated to food pantries and other service providers to the food insecure. Since the early 2000s, Kansas Hunters Feeding the Hungry has provided nearly 3 million meals to food-insecure Kansans. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says a new collaboration with the Southwind Extension District is helping provide protein for food insecure individuals and families in southeast Kansas.

HOLYROOD DEPOT RESTORATION – Holyrood, located in Ellsworth county, was once the western terminus of the Santa Fe railroad – literally the end of the line. Over time, the depot became dilapidated and in 2014, a group of local volunteers began an effort to preserve and renovate the depot, which now includes a community meeting room, an ADA-accessible bathroom, and a museum with artifacts reflecting the community. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, the depot has an unusual distinction. It is said to be one of only five train depots in the nation to be built on pilings on its original site.

WENZ INTERIORS – HOLYROOD – Lois and Gilbert Wenz have been the owners of Wenz Interiors in Holyrood since 1978 – operating out of their home the first five years because no real estate was available. In 1983, they built a new building and added on as the business grew. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says Wenz Interiors is a one-stop source for residential and commercial building and decorating products for new construction and/or remodeling.

WHOLLY COW – GRASS FED BEEF – Matt and Michelle Canny’s farm in southwest Kansas doesn’t have the irrigation necessary to raise grain for feed, so they’re producing grass-fed beef. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says Matt and Michelle are marketing their grass-fed beef online as well as locally and are shipping product from coast to coast.

ELI SVATY– SEWARD COUNTY – Early in his professional career, Eli Svaty (swat-ee) enjoyed teaching and learning. In 2019, he took on a new challenge as Seward County economic development director. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says Svaty is now helping to teach and lead others as president of the Western Kansas Rural Economic Development Alliance and a member of the Kansas Agriculture and Rural Leadership program.

KRISTIN BRIGHTON – HirePaths – When marketing executive Kristin Brighton was chair of the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce, she learned of the need for more youth to be working in the skilled trades, but that message wasn’t reaching kids and families. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says Kristin used her marketing skills to develop a campaign called HirePaths that encourages education for high-demand careers.

CLINT BRAUER – GREENFIELD ROBOTICS – Clint Brauer was a technology executive in California before returning to his family’s farm due to his father’s health. He is now using autonomous AI-powered farming robots that can reduce herbicide use by cutting down weeds, applying nutrients and more. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says these robots are capable of navigating between rows of crops like soybeans, cotton and sorghum with less crop damage than a traditional spray rig.

SLEEPER CARS AND FLANNEL UNIFORMS – Elden Auker grew up playing ball in rural northwest Kansas and then played three sports at Kansas State University. He was voted All-Big 6 Conference in football, baseball, and basketball before having a successful ten-year career as a pitcher in major league baseball. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says Aucker also wrote a book about his time in the majors: Sleeper Cars and Flannel Uniforms.

WYATT THOMPSON – VOICE OF THE WILDCATS – The legendary sportscasters who have broadcast K-State football and basketball games through the years are known as the Voice of the Wildcats. The latest in that long line of sportscasters is Wyatt Thompson. He became the Voice of the Wildcats in 2002. Ron Wilson, director of the Huck Boyd National Institute for Rural Development at Kansas State University, says Thompson is from the rural community of Solomon and that one of the reasons he appreciates being the Voice of Wildcats is because of his roots in rural Kansas.