Mike, Susan Salyards to lead 2021 Phillips County Fair parade after decades of behind-the-scenes work for the community

The Phillips County Fairgrounds has seen many changes over the years, especially over the last decade.  While the differences are notable, what some may not know is the work that went on behind the scenes making it all possible.

While prep work for the buildings at the fairgrounds has been a collaborative effort of many hands — one common face behind the heavy equipment is Phillips County Road and Bridge Manager Mike Salyards.

Mike and his wife, Susan, are very familiar with the Phillips County Fair as they raised their three children in 4-H and FFA, showing horses, sheep and hogs. The couple has spent a lot of time at local fairs over the past three decades but this year, they will take a different role — this time as the 2021 Phillips County Fair grand marshals.

Susan grew up on a farm south of Julesburg while showing horses at the Sedgwick County Fair throughout her childhood. After graduating from Julesburg High School in 1979, her sister introduced her to a friend from nearby Haxtun. It was Mike.

Mike, a 1970 graduate of Haxtun High School, grew up and lived in Haxtun and Phillips County his entire life. After high school, Mike and his father, Ken Salyards, partnered in a farming and custom hay business, but by the mid-’80s, business was slow and he knew he needed more steady income to help support his family.

Mike and Susan were married in 1983 at the Julesburg Methodist Church and the same year, they welcomed their first child, Lacey.

Mike started his career with Phillips County in 1985 when he took a job as roadman. Mike said he hauled gravel for the county for close to 10 years and when Clair Pillard retired, then-County Commissioner Keith Sharpe asked him if he would take over as district foreman — a job he accepted.

The full article is available in our e-Edition. Click here to subscribe.