As I cross the finish line in my service as Pi Chapter president, I would like to share some closing thoughts. Mike Knutz, past president of our national board, once said, “A bend in the road is not the end, unless you fail to make the turn.” I hope that you have been able to negotiate the twists and turns that have developed during these challenging times. The connections I have been able to make virtually with colleagues across the state and across the country are a great reminder of why I joined Epsilon Sigma Phi. ESP offers opportunities for Extension professionals to network across all program areas. Leadership development is a strong component for members willing to serve their colleagues as officers and committee chairs or members at chapter and national levels. Professional development is at the heart of the ESP mission. Through this mission, members can learn and grow as well as teach others from their experience. People are at the center of our work both in Extension and with
The Minnesota Association of Extension Agricultural Professionals (MAEAP) held their 101st anniversary meeting on Sept. 14 at Voss Park of Butterfield in Watonwan County. A business meeting and lunch were followed by mock Extension presentations with period-accurate dress and information from the past 100 years. Other activities included an open mic, dinner and musical entertainment by Julie Weisenhorn's family band, The Abiders. It was a wonderful celebration gathering together many retirees and current educators. Thanks to Brad Carlson, Extension water resources educator, and others who planned this memorable event. Educators dressed in period costume to deliver mock presentations from bygone years, sharing Extension and agricultural history with one another. Front row: George Rehm, Bob Koehler, Neil Broadwater, Marilyn Grantham Back row: Dan Martens, Wayne Schoper, Ray Bisek, Dave Resch, Tim Arlt, Dave Schwartz, Kent Thiesse