Patriotism blossoms in this front yard
Staff writer
It’s hard for the Seiferts’ home to go unnoticed when driving on Main St. in Marion.
Red, white, purple, and pink flowers perch pretty in pots surrounded by all things red, white, and blue — from flags to hanging ornaments to the flower pots themselves.
That’s not to mention Kansas State Wildcat memorabilia, flamingos, frogs, and a sunflower-shaped bird bath.
Though they don’t have plans for it yet, Steve and Angie Seifert already are prepared for the United States’ birthday this year.
“[It’s] for further respect of our country,” Steve, 64, said. “There might be all kinds of crazy stuff going on right now, but as far as I’m concerned, this is the greatest country in the world.”
The “greatest country in the world” is about to turn 250 years old — a milestone only those born before July 4, 2026, will get to experience first-hand.
Steve, who can tell you where he was and what he did during America’s 200th birthday, stressed the importance of this year’s occasion, especially to his grandchildren.
“Remember this, because you won’t be around for the next 250 years,” he said. “It’s kind of a huge milestone.”
Back at the Seiferts’ home, Steve has taken care of watering the plants while Angie has done the bulk of the decorating.
Slowly but surely, the floral display and Independence Day knickknacks have established residence on their front yard and porch.
“She just started buying all this 250th stuff, and I was like, ‘Holy cow,’” Steve said with a laugh.
It’s taken a week or two for Angie to set it all up.
“She broke her back, so it’s been a process,” Steve said, “because you can only do a little bit at a time.”
Angie, 62, found out about her back nearly a month ago, and has had to use a brace since then. Surgery has not been necessary, according to Steve.
Her back injury hasn’t stopped the couple from accessorizing the outside of their home, however.
“The whole principle of the United States has always been very important in both families growing up,” Steve said.
Steve’s father was in the Air Force, and Angie’s was in the Army. They both served during the Korean War.
The couples’ military lineage doesn’t stop there.
Steve’s sister, and nephew also were in the Air Force, and his son-in-law is in the National Guard.
Steve wanted to join the Air Force. But when he wanted to in the 1980s, it wasn’t taking many new recruits.
“I wanted to go the Air Force Academy,” he said. “I actually probably could’ve been in the academy then, but it didn’t happen. I went on to other options.”
Those other options included working at the grain elevator in Herington and Union Pacific Railroad, where he still works.
The Seiferts moved from Lost Springs four years ago. They like the location.
“It was kind of my idea to move closer to civilization,” he said. “I mean, we had Al’s Café there in Lost Springs. That’s the only business we had.”