Bower retires as extension director

One week before the start of the Jefferson County Fair, the Iowa State University Extension Building on the fairgrounds bustles with activity and Ron Bower sits behind his desk answering the phone and greeting people who come in, just like any other day.

Only Wednesday was not any other day.

It was the last day on the job for the Jefferson County Extension director.

"This is it," Bower said as he retrieved files off his computer and cleaned up his desk.

"As I sit here with a couple of hours left," he said "I realize I still have a lot to do."

After nearly 20 years as the county's Extension director, Bower announced last year June 30 would be his last day on the job.

"One has mixed feelings," Bower said.

Bower said the time has gone quickly, and it feels good to be done.

"I am ready for a change," he said.

Born and raised in Jefferson County, Bower participated in 4-H as a youth and exhibited at the local fair.

He farmed for 20 years and applied to be Extension director in 1986.

Bower said he has seen many changes in the past 20 years.

"There's been a decline in the number of animals exhibited," he said. However, he pointed out there has been an increase in home economics, science and engineering exhibits.

"You don't have to live on a farm to be in 4-H," he said.

Bower said he will miss having people come to him on a daily basis, and "helping them solve problems and answer their questions."

People would come to him to have him identify insects and weeds.

He shared about the time a woman came into the office and said she was getting bit by something in bed. She had an envelop with the culprit inside, but Bower didn't know what it was, and didn't want to know.

"I didn't pursue that one," he said.

Sometimes Bower just didn't have the answer.

          For the complete story, read the July 1 Fairfield Ledger.