August 15, 2009
Posted: August 15, 2009
My “Swan Song”
The definition of “swan song” from wikipedia.org is:
The phrase “swan song” is a reference to an ancient belief that the Mute Swan (Cygnus olor) is completely mute during its lifetime until the moment just before it dies, when it sings one beautiful song. However, swans are not actually mute. They produce snorts, shrill noises, grunts, and hisses and they do not sing as they die. Still, “swan song” has become an idiom referring to a final theatrical or dramatic appearance, or any final work or accomplishment. The end of August will be my “swan song” for extension work.
I find it hard to believe that I will soon no longer be an employee of CSU Extension. It really does not seem that long ago, that I walked into the extension office at 500 Right of Way Road, on July 17, 1978. Curt Probert (livestock agent) was loading the bus with 40 plus 4-H members on their way to Elitch’s. (I was surprised that they did not have me go with them). Jim Read, county director, was busy working with groups to spray for grasshoppers. He took a few minutes to show me my office and said. “Get to Work”. One of my first tasks was to wright a news column of introduction. It took me longer than it should have but was good practice for the years of columns that was to follow.
My first activity was junior camp, where I met a lot of fun 4-H members from many clubs. I learned to share their camping experience which we conducted for many years. Soon it was not long before my first Logan county fair. I had been in 4-H and FFA, so I knew what a fair was but did not realize how much work went into one. I quickly learned how hard so many volunteers worked to provide an event where so many people can take pride in the work they have accomplished during the year.
Yes, county fairs take a lot of effort from many people, but the rewards are priceless. Happy and sad tears, laughter, proud parents and grandparents, seeing old friends, making new friends, youth teaching other youth, people helping people, that’s what fair is, a special tribute to Logan County.
In addition to fair, the main part of my job was 4-H and I always have tried to keep that as an emphasis. In fact, even after I retire, I hope to still help in some way as the many volunteers have. I was so fortunate to become a part of your 4-H families and appreciate all of the support that I have received over the years.
If you would like to visit at a “come and go social” for refreshments and stories, stop by the extension office from 3:00-6:00 p.m. on Friday, August 28. I am not leaving Logan County, I am just changing hats in conclusion of my 31 years with CSU Extension.