UNIVERSITY EXTENDS TO ROTARY MEETING

Members of the Jackson Rotary Club learned how the University of Missouri is connected to their community at there regular weekly meeting held Oct. 28. A program focusing on the mission of University Outreach and Extension was presented by Rick Sparks, business and industry specialist; Donna Fields, 4-H youth specialist and Gerald Bryan, agronomy specialist.

Sparks explained that University Outreach and Extension is the local link between the resources of the four University of Missouri campuses and Lincoln University and people throughout the state. Through University Outreach and Extension, citizens engage in learner-based educational programs designed to meet clearly defined needs.

Bryan then told the group how these needs are determined by surveying the local people to indentify the concerns in which they are interested. He went on to say that county extension councils--made up of elected and appointed citizens--plan and oversee local extension activities.

Fields further explained that extension specialists, who live and work in each county, help citizens identify issues that affect their lives and their communities. Some of the issues identified include: making communities viable; creating economies in which agriculture, businesses, industries and individuals can prosper; improving family and individual health; and caring for the environment.

All three specialists encouraged the group to use this valuable resource which is located in their community. Sparks ended by saying that "Extension is the place to go, when you need to know" and gave their address 815 S. Hope (Hwy. 25 South) in Jackson.