Main/News/Network 12.01

December, 2001
KASBO
Network
Volume 11, Issue #2

In This Issue

Message from the President

Baltimore ASBO 2001

Karen's Komments

2002 ASBO

2002 KASBO Convention

KASBO Board of Directors Meeting

KASBO Winter Workshop

 

Message from President Gary Jantz:

The terrorist attacks on September 11 and subsequent events have reminded all of us that our world has dramatically changed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims and families of these tragedies as well as to our service men and women who are putting their lives on the line to preserve our freedom and the American way of life. We need to also remember our president and other national leaders who are making difficult decisions daily as they deal with the wide-ranging political, sociological, and economic impact of these events.

Kansas ASBO members who attended the ASBO International Annual Meeting and Exhibits in Baltimore, Maryland October 11-16 saw first-hand some of the effects brought about by these events. Armed National Guardsmen at airports and long lines due to increased airport security were common. The closing of the White House and several federal buildings to the public during our Washington, D.C. trip served as another reminder of how things have changed. While there were some cancellations, the 87th annual conference did go on and the nearly 2,000 attendees were treated to a variety of informative workshops, outstanding vendor exhibits, and inspirational speakers. A moving video presentation of recent events and a stirring rendition of "God Bless America" by the ASBO choir left very few dry eyes in the convention hall.

These national events have had and will continue to have a lasting impact on KASBO members. The weak national economy, bearish markets, and slow-down in air travel and the aircraft industry have already impacted our state economy and school districts. Property and liability insurance rates will most likely increase dramatically and coverage may even be difficult to obtain. Families will be affected by layoffs and the call-up of military personnel to activity duty. Children will be forced to deal with new fears in an already uncertain world.

Despite all of these difficult challenges, I believe KASBO members can and will continue to provide the leadership necessary to address the educational needs of the children in our state. We must continue to advocate for our students with the legislature and other governmental leaders. We must redouble our efforts to do more with the resources we have. We must be vigilant but not fearful as we attempt to make our schools as safe as possible. We must continue to remember that our most important resources are the children in our communities and that we can make a difference in their lives through the work we do.

If we have learned anything through these events, it is the importance of caring for each other, for taking time to enjoy the little things in life, and to stand united in our efforts to preserve the freedom that we have often taken for granted.

Gary Jantz, President
USD 373 Newton


Baltimore ASBO 2001 A Great Success

Twenty-five Kansans attended the 87th annual ASBO convention in Baltimore during mid-October. The group enjoyed the beautiful city and the wonderful weather during the convention (OK, it did rain one night). The convention provided wonderful opportunities to associate with our peers from around the country and also those from other countries. Security concerns in the wake of the September 11 tragedy kept attendance down, but did not dampen the spirits of those in attendance.

The convention offered numerous pre-convention workshops and some wonderful discussion group opportunities on virtually every subject related to school business operations. The vendor exhibit hall offered information on software, equipment purchasing, food service, busing and other areas of business services. Several individuals had trouble finding room in their luggage for all of the handouts and freebies provided.

The Kansas group shared a wonderful breakfast on Monday, October 15, 2001, sponsored by American Fidelity. KASBO appreciates their continued support of this event.

Kansas hosted a reception on Monday night that allowed attendees from other states to become acquainted with our great state and some good old mid-western hospitality. Congratulations to Karen Schadel, Myrna Morrison and Sharon Zoellner for all their hard work with the hospitality function. The delegation also took the opportunity to wear sunflower badges each day and pin sunflowers on everyone in sight to also promote KASBO. The Kansas delegation was complimented from other convention attendees for being visible and friendly.

Check out the KASBO web page for pictures of the convention. Thanks to Rob Balsters for taking pictures.

Don Adkisson, Chairman
National Convention Promotion & Membership Chairman


Karen's Komments

The Fall Workshop was a success. Good weather, above average attendance and excellent speakers attributed to the success

Dr. Andy Tompkins set the tenor for the workshop. Dr. Tompkins gave an overview of the state of education in Kansas. Senators Lana Oleen, Janis Lee and Ruth Teichman gave helpful suggestions on how we can be involved in improving education in Kansas. This coming Legislative Session will be critical for supporting education. Make your voices heard on the issues. Presentations from the Commissioner and Senators were well received.

The contribution by the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce was sincerely appreciated.

The KASBO Choir has a director and accompanist. Daniel Lassley from dataTeam and Jane Tener, retiree, will fill those positions. Anyone interested in participating contact Lori Blakesley at 620.665.4406 if you cannot be at the Winter Workshop for the first practice.

Be thinking about an individual to nominate for the Distinguished Service Award. Past President Linda Jones will be taking nominations for the award.

A genuine thank you to all the Kansans that attended the ASBO Convention and helped during the reception. It was a fun and exciting evening for all involved.

Karen Schadel
KASBO Consultant


2002 ASBO Convention

Begin planning now to attend the 2002 ASBO convention in Phoenix, Arizona. The site offers some wonderful opportunities to spend extra time before or after the conference. Mark October 25-29, 2002 on your calendars.

KASBO would like to have a large representation in attendance because of plans to host a reception during the convention to promote Rob Balsters, USD 345 Seaman, as a candidate for the position of ASBO Director. While this campaign has not been formally announced, the plans are already underway to support Dr. Blasters in this endeavor. In addition, the learning opportunities provided at ASBO conferences are extensive and the opportunity to network with other business officials and vendors should not be passed up. Hope to see all of you in Phoenix.

Don Adkisson, Chairman
National Convention Promotion & Membership Chairman


2002 KASBO Convention Update

Get Connected @ KASBO is the theme chosen by the convention committee for the 38th KASBO Convention, April 17 - 19, 2002. The KASBO Convention is a prime time to network with colleagues. Staff development offerings will meet the needs of all segments of the KASBO membership.

The Manhattan Holiday Inn, 530 Richards Dr., 785.539.5311, is the convention hotel. Additional hotels that have a block of rooms reserved for KASBO in Manhattan and available for housing during the convention are as follows:

Days Inn, 1501 Tuttle Creek Blvd., 785.539.5391
Manhattan Super 8 Motel, 200 Tuttle Creek Blvd., 785.537.8468
Hampton Inn, 501 E Poyntz, 785.539.5000
Comfort Inn, 150 E Poyntz, 785.770.8000
Fairfield Inn, 300 Colorado. 785.539.2400

Be sure and mention KASBO when making reservations to get the discounted rate. These room blocks are reserved until March 15, 2002.

The first KASBO event during convention will once again be the Golf Tournament. Marvin Sisk is the tournament coordinator for a 'unique golfing opportunity' in Manhattan. The registration form will be in the winter Newsletter.

A tradition has been established for the KASBO Convention. The 'Trade Show' was so well received last year that the board elected to have the show as an annual event on Wednesday, 10:00 - 4:00. Space at the hotel will allow 40 booths to be set up. Vendors will be invited to participate with a booth giving those in attendance an opportunity to meet the vendors and see new items available for schools. The traditional hospitality rooms will again be a part of the convention setting.

The time honored pre-convention workshops will be in place Wednesday afternoon for the early arrivals. The user groups will meet from 2:00 - 4:00. They make good use of this valuable time.

Wednesday evening activities have been organized by the Manhattan committee members. Two opportunities will be available for members and guests.

Tour # 1: Beach Museum of Art, on the KSU Campus. Experience the exhibition "Rags to Riches" at the Beach Museum of Art by making your own paper and viewing artwork prominent contemporary artists have created from handmade paper. The exhibition is a celebration of twenty-five years of collaboration with artists by the Deiu Donne Papermill in New York. Featured artists include Kansan, Alan Shields, Linda Benglis, who was a visiting artist at KSU in the 1970's, Chuck Close, Jim Dine, and Sandy Skoglund.

Tour # 2: Konza Prairie. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the only extensive area of tall grass prairie left unplowed in America. Tour the bison loop by bus or hike the nature trail both accompanied by docents. Visit the Konza Prairie web site for further information about this spectacular Kansas treasure.

Bring your dancing shoes for music by DJ Dave Lewis. The dance will follow the 'Western Barbecue' dinner.

Raise your voices in song! The KASBO Choir will share their talents at the Thursday luncheon.

Keynote speakers have been selected that will both enlighten and entertain. Thursday morning breakfast, 8:00 a.m. will begin with Mark Mayfield, a native Kansan, a KSU graduate that has served as National President of the Future Farmers of America. The "Corporate Wit" will entertain and educate the KASBO membership and guests.

The In-Service committee will soon be finalizing the program offerings. If you have suggestion for topics or are willing to present, contact Rod Dietz at 316.794.4000. Tentative topics include:

School Finance
Department of Education Assistance
Cafeteria Plans
Budgeting
Office Procedures
Food Service Programs
Maintenance Programs
Technology
Legal Issues
Legislative Issues
KPERS

After a day of learning and networking, the banquet will be a time to recognize achievements and honor an outstanding individual for their work with KASBO or for their work toward improvement of education in Kansas. Then it is time to 'boogie' and have fun at the dance.

Susan Carnahan, a speaker with Kansas roots, will deliver the closing address at the Friday luncheon. Her presentation is sure to give convention attendees something to think about and talk about on their way home.

Make plans to attend the 38th KASBO Convention.


KASBO Board of Directors Meeting Highlights

The KASBO Board of Directors met October 4, 2001, at the Salina Red Coach Inn with President Gary Jantz presiding.

Two guests, Don Adkisson, USD 260 Derby Business Manager and Brilla Highfill Scott, Executive Director of the United School Administrators were present for the meeting.

Todd Covault, KASBO Vice President resigned his position. The board elected Kathy Johnson, board member from USD 497 Lawrence, to fill the Vice President position. Kathy was also assigned as the Chair of the membership committee and member of the convention committee and in-service committee.

Don Adkisson, was elected by the board to fill the position held by Kathy Johnson. Don has been a long time member of KASBO and ASBO. He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the board.

A membership report was presented. KASBO has 462 members, which includes 87 vendors, 23 retirees and 352 active members.

The board approved a 'Trade Show' as the opening event for convention. The format will include giving tee shirts to attendees that visit the vendor booths.

A KASBO Choir will be formed to entertain at a luncheon. Sign up sheets will be circulated at workshop.

Plans for the ASBO Convention in Baltimore, October 11 - 16, were discussed. Costs for the reception will be less that estimated earlier. American Fidelity Assurance will provide the breakfast for all Kansans attending the convention. Tom's donated eight hundred packages of sunflower seeds and Russell Stover donated six pounds of chocolates. These items will be used for the Balsters reception. All KASBO members and their spouses that will be attending the convention were encouraged to attend the reception and extend Kansas hospitality to the guests.

The ASBO Leadership Conference will be held in Phoenix, Arizona, February 14 - 15, 2002. Gary Jantz, Lori Blakesley, Kathy Johnson, and Karen Schadel will be attending.

Brilla Highfill Scott encouraged KASBO members to attend the USA Convention at the Wichita Hyatt, January 23 - 25, 2002. Brilla complimented KASBO board member Dr. Sharon Zoellner for her efforts as president of the United School Administrators.

The next board meeting will be Friday, January 25, 2002, at the Wichita Hyatt.


KASBO Winter Workshop

February 6 and 7, 2002, are dates to meet with your colleagues for a time of learning and sharing at the KASBO Winter Workshop. The workshop will be at the Salina Holiday Inn.

The registration fee is $40 for KASBO members and $55 for non-members which includes Wednesday lunch. Review the program schedule, complete the registration form and mail to KASBO, RR 1 Box 17, Alexander, KS 67513 or FAX to 316.525.6368. E-mailing KASBO at kschadel@gbta.net can also be used to register for the workshop. Respond by February 4, 2002. Payment may accompany the registration or paid at the workshop.

KASBO has reserved a block of rooms at the Holiday Inn. Mention KASBO while making your reservation at 785.823.1739 to get the discounted rate. The discounted rate is available until January 21, 2002.

Cancellation notices received on or before February 4, will be recognized by KASBO. All others will be charged the full registration fee.

(Click here for a Winter Workshop Schedule)

(Click here for a Winter Workshop Registration Form)


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