Shank’s Take: November is a Special Month

November is a special month each year as we pause to remember our blessings and honor veterans of this nation’s Armed Forces who have fought to preserve our freedom for nearly two-and one-half centuries. 

Several years ago, I had occasion to visit Valley Forge in Pennsylvania where George Washington, and what some have called his rag tag Army, spent the winter of 1777 while fighting the Revolutionary War. A historian from that era called it the bleakest days of the war. It was later said the suffering endured by these servicemen at Valley Forge was trifling when compared to the prize won six years later that brought peace, freedom, and a Democratic way of life, which remains today. 

More than one million members of the Armed Forces have paid the supreme sacrifice during our nation’s history. 

On November 11, Veterans Day, or on any other day, when we meet up with veterans of the military at football games, airports, restaurants, shopping centers or on the street, let us thank them for their service. It is my experience that all are shocked with surprise to be thanked, which makes me wonder if few people do so. 

And, on November 28, when we sit down with family and friends for a Thanksgiving dinner, let us say thanks for blessings that have come our way this year. 

When I hear stories of people who started businesses in their garage and sold decades later for hundreds of millions of dollars, it makes me say “only  in America” would a story like that happen where hard work and perseverance could produce a successful result of that magnitude.  

These days, we hear the term entrepreneurship more and more. Many entrepreneurs are young who, through what was once called Yankee ingenuity, are inventing and building businesses and lives destined to create a better life for all. 

Yes, we have much to be thankful for. 

In closing, I want to say a few words about a Legacy Gift program initiated by the Kansas Fairgrounds Foundation (KFF) to encourage supporters to bequeath a portion of their assets and resources for the future projects and improvements at the Kansas State Fair. James Fisher, Executive Director for the KFF, is ready to assist any donor developing a plan based on the contributor’s wishes. It may be something you may wish to consider as we approach the end of another year.  

In closing, I will say Happy Holidays and best wishes for a happy and healthy 2025. 

And, most importantly, thank you for your support of the Kansas State Fair this year, and we hope our paths cross soon.

-Richard Shank

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