Editor:
I am writing to express my deep concern about the funding of a most important resource to Harrison County. I have recently heard that the Harrison County OSU Extension services are going to have to be funded by a levy on the May ballot.
I am a 33-year-old housewife on a small country farm with just a few animals for my kids to enjoy. I have lived in Harrison County for 12 years. In that time, I have called on the extension’s help at least 30 times.
I get advice and information on everything from how to deal with the multi-flora roses to ladybug control. In addition, I receive two quarterly newsletters that help with my financial planning and how to be a better parent. Extension is an important resource that I cannot imagine living without.
Oh, and by the way, I grew up a 4-H kid.
It began with my older brothers, as most of the fun things did. They started bringing home beautiful blue ribbons for prize ducks and chickens, collecting pins for leadership, getting licenses to drive tractors, hatching chickens, making honey from taking care of bees, camping, and so much more.
I had to wait until I was 9 and I remember how hard that wait was. I chose to raise white Chinese geese, become skilled at photography, writing, cooking, clothing design, art, archery, and so much more.
My geese were awarded the best of show in the state for three years! Competing with sewing projects helped me be able to sew for my family. My projects in leadership, 4-H fashion reviews, and social graces led to modeling jobs that paid for trips to Europe and lessons in budgeting.
The public presentations helped me to conquer public speaking. I held offices and learned how to write and to take pictures. I know where my food comes from.
And I learned how to do research; a skill we all know will be needed to make it in college. I attended university programs during the summer when I was only 15 so I was better prepared for college life. All were sponsored by the cooperative extension 4-H program.
I learned more in those after school hours than any eight-hour day in school. It is the leaders of my community, parents, agents and fellow members that made all this possible. To them I say thank you.
To voters, I say, find out what extension services are and vote yes for the Extension levy on May 7.
Karen Whitescarver
Bowerston, Ohio
