Dear Editor,
March 28 through April 1 is Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Week. We are proud that 2016 is Greene County Extension’s centennial year, with plans underway for a November celebration.
Much like life in Greene County, Extension has changed over the last 100 years. We no longer host a three-day women’s conference on “hat making,” but we continue to create learning opportunities for our constituents. Our focus and goals remain the same – to build a STRONG IOWA. Utilizing the cutting-edge resources of Iowa State University, our focus is on four main areas: 4-H and youth leadership, agriculture and natural resources, families and human sciences, and community development.
Elected officials serving four-year terms comprise the Extension council. These individuals guide the operations of the organization. Their pay is not monetary, but they are rewarded by giving back to a community that has helped support them and their families.
As staff, we are fortunate to work with such a dedicated group who challenge us and are there to support our new ideas, programs and activities.
Next time you see one of these council members, please stop them and simply say, “Thank you” for their service to Greene County. Those currently serving are Tom Heater, Amber Lawton, Shari Minnehan, Jake Bohnet, Pam Olerich, Loel Larson, Joe Gannon, Marilyn Parker and Doug Rieder.
Kudos to the communities, businesses and individuals who have supported this organization over the last 100 years. We think Extension is a big deal and we invite you to attend one of our events, visit our website at www.extension.iastate.edu/greene, attend the Greene County Fair (July 12-18), or just stop in our office at 104 W. Washington in Jefferson.
With gratitude, the Greene County Extension and Outreach staff – Laura Ballard, Janice Harbaugh, Kayla Hyett, Lori Mannel, Sue Richardson
