The human brain has been a magnet for attention in the past and this year promises to be no exception. The brain will be displayed and discussed as part of the sixth annual "Sixth Grade Health Smarts" at St. Rose Ambulatory & Surgery Center.

The popular event is set for Tuesday and Wednesday, Nov. 8 and 9 when the students will see the brain, along with a healthy lung and a smoker’s lung.

"These are the topics that bring most of the attention," said Stacy Hefley, St. Rose marketing and volunteer coordinator. "However, we will have many other highlights for our sixth-graders."

Topics will include alcohol and drug abuse, body image and fitness, healthy food and beverage choices, communication and listening skills, hygiene and safety.

"The youngsters have always enjoyed this health fair and we are happy to sponsor it again this year," Hefley said. "At this age, they are curious about health-related topics and may be facing peer pressure to make unhealthy choices. We want them to have access to good, reliable information."

The fringe benefit, Hefley noted, is that some students may discover they are interested in health care as a career. "What they learn at the health fair could have an impact," Hefley said. "We have noticed over the years that the information makes an impression on them.

"Teachers and parents also have offered positive feedback," she added. "This is an event everyone enjoys and learns from."

Sixth graders from Riley, Central Kansas Christian Academy and Holy Family are scheduled for the Tuesday session. On Wednesday, Jefferson, Eisenhower, Park and Lincoln students will participate.

The youngsters should arrive in St. Rose’s main lobby at 12:15 p.m. and will leave at about 2:30 p.m. Teachers and teachers’ aides are welcome.

Approximately 270 students are expected and each will receive a few handouts.