This is typical Jim Palmer: As an on-air personality for KKOY Radio in Chanute, he was asked to judge the cutest baby contest at Eries Old Soldiers and Sailors Reunion.
Parents went all out. Jim realized many were going to be disappointed, with only one winner.
With humor as his companion, he told the organizer, give me 15 minutes to get away before announcing the winner.
He also organized and directed the Lions Clubs annual fishing derby for years, though not a member, and often went beyond the classroom to help students when instructing vocal and instrumental music.
Retired for many years now, Jims longest job was at the radio station, covering well over 20 years.
He grew up in Lindsborg where his dad, Chester, taught shop at the local high school. He earned a music degree at the local college, Bethany. Then, he set sail in music education, first at tiny Pawnee Rock.
Next came Inman, where he met Sheryl. Marriage came June 1, 1969.
Sheryl attended Bethel College in North Newton with her last two years at Wichita State.
About 90 percent of Inman was Mennonite and of 150 kids in high school, 144 showed up for choir, he said. I was scared to death after having a fraction that many in his first assignment. Staging The Music Man, with a full orchestra, was a highlight of his tenure at Inman High, although I had to be careful not to include anything that might upset the Mennonites.
He also taught in Towanda and Conway Springs before arriving at Humboldt High in 1972.
Three years later, Jim decided to try something else.
He worked a spell selling supplies to restaurants and nursing homes.
Then an offer from KKOY was too good to turn down, and gave Jim a chance to once again tap into his theatrical side.
He broadcast games and had a coaches show. His Outdoors with Jim, program explored hunting and fishing. A fond memory is attending the First World Fishing Clinic at Bass Pro in Springfield, Mo., for four days. I did tons of interviews.
Meanwhile, Sheryl liked continuity. She taught business classes in Wichita four years and 35 at HHS. She continues to substitute teach.
