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Ohio 4-H Youth Development

Ohio State University Extension

CFAES

1990's

1999 Hall of Fame 

Albert "Les" Disher

Many people in Ohio will write a check for a worthy cause. Les Disher will do that, but he will also do far more. Les will give all of his energy to making this world a better place. By unselfishly giving of his time, he has provided leadership and guidance to his community, church, and area schools. Because of his work on the Ohio 4-H Foundation Board and the state 4-H Advisory Committee, Les has always striven for something higher. His positive attitude and quick smile coupled with his extra ounce of common sense makes him not only a persuasive leader, but a likable one as well. 

Although he's a successful salesperson for a leading refrigeration and kitchen contractor, Les has never lost touch with the values that he learned on a farm. As a breeder of market lambs, he welcomes 4-H members to his eight acre mini-farm each April to help them select animals with prize-winning potential. A high percentage of his club members attend college and many return as 4-H volunteers.

Debbie Endsley

Debbie is a valuable asset to Ohio's 4-H program. She demonstrates a deep commitment and belief in the fundamentals of 4-H by the energy, personal resources, and countless hours of service that she dedicates to 4-H. Although she serves on many advisory committees, she also spends numerous hours working one-on-one with youth, volunteers, and parents. Debbie has been (unofficially but naturally) mentoring club advisors and key leaders for years, not just by answering questions, but also by helping them explore options when faced with tough situations. 

Debbie has served several terms on the East District Advisory Committee and on the State 4-H Advisory Committee. Debbie has served as president of both the district and state 4-H Advisory Committees. Her current passion is the 4-H Shooting Sports Program where she trains adult volunteers in pistol and rifle disciplines and serves on the State 4-H Shooting Sports Committee. Her enthusiasm for learning and promoting 4-H has impacted the lives of hundreds of youth and adults, both within the 4-H program and in the community. 

Charles Lifer, Ph.D.

The Ohio 4-H program would not be the excellent program it is today without Dr. Lifer's extraordinary contributions, visionary leadership, wisdom, hard work, and personal commitment. It is largely because of his work and leadership in securing both public and private resources that 4-H Youth Development in Ohio is stronger than in any other state. 

Dr. Lifer's long-term personal commitment to "making the best better" has also greatly contributed to strengthening the Ohio 4-H program. For example, his personal sponsorship of the "Excellence in 4-H Award," given to the top county 4-H professional in Ohio each year, challenges and inspires agents throughout the state to achieve greater excellence in their programs. Dr. Lifer is one of those rare individuals who continually and consistently makes an extraordinarily positive difference "behind the scenes." His advice and counsel is sought, valued, and used by people ranging from experienced government and university officials to the newest teen 4-H ambassadors. Chuck is one individual who has truly "made the best better" for Ohio youth and adults, as well as for the club, community, country, and world in which they live. 

Cleo Ludwig

Cleo Ludwig is a name associated around Ohio with successful business ventures spanning seven decades. His name is synonymous with leadership, entrepreneurship, innovation, and mediation. Yet in Cleo's estimation, the shy young lad who joined a 4-H club in Lucas County in 1921 would not be recognized today if it were not for his involvement in the 4-H Youth Development Program. 

In the 1940's, Cleo, with Bob Kibbey, founded the L-K Restaurants which are known around Ohio for delicious food and fine service. A gifted leader, Cleo inspired unity within the community of Marion to establish its first public hospital. Believing that the 4-H Youth Development Program should be embraced by more institutions of higher learning, Cleo was the impetus behind the creation of Ohio 4-H Space Camp at Ohio Northern University. Cleo continues as a strong advocate for 4-H and just last year sponsored the first Volunteer Innovator Award given at the Ohio 4-H Volunteer Recognition Luncheon and Conference.

 

1998 Hall of Fame 

Walter C. Horn, Jr.  

Walter has served 57 years as a 4-H advisor. He has served on the Huron County 4-H Committee, the State 4-H Advisory Committee, and the State Extension Advisory Committee. He received the OCEAA Appreciation Award in 1979 and the state 4-H Alumni Recognition Award in 1991. He helped to formulate the Huron County 4-H Cloverbud program. He also worked to refine the county 4-H Honor Club Program, through which his club has been recognized for 38 years. 

Although Walter didn't win many laurels or honors with his own 4-H projects, these early experiences led him to develop a philosophy of "it is not winning that counts, but what is learned and how much improvement is made." Walter has been involved in 4-H all his life: as a child around his mother's 4-H club, as a 4-H member, and as a 4-H advisor. He met his wife, Eloise, at a 4-H meeting held in his home. 

Jan Robert Moser

Jan organized the Western Reserve Rangers 4-H Club in Mahoning County over thirty years ago, and has been a supporter of the 4-H Program ever since. Jan's mentoring style is ever present in his constant encouragement of 4-H'ers to broaden their interests and meet new challenges. 

He encourages club alumni to become Ambassadors, 4-H leaders, serve on county committees, and sponsor awards. Jan leads by example and continues to sponsor awards. He encourages members to submit news releases to newspapers and finds ways for them to do promotional spots on radio and television. 

His home is busy with members working on projects, demonstrations, county and state applications, and making props and signs for parade floats and educational displays. He takes a personal interest in each youth and helps them find success. 

Joseph H. Orr

Dr. Orr has been a 4-H club volunteer in Licking County for 19 years. He has served on the Licking County, the East District, and the State 4-H Advisory Committees. 

Whenever there is a need, Dr. Orr provides his expertise and valuable insight. His love for 4-H is ever present. He has continually worked with county commissioners and state legislators to secure support for the local and state 4-H program. 

With his fund-raising expertise, he helped to establish a 4-H Endowment Fund in Licking County. He spearheaded an effort to raise $15,000 to establish the endowment fund. He has always believed that "success comes one step at a time" and that good parents and 4-H volunteers can help with those initial steps. 

William H. Saum

Bill served as a 4-H volunteer in Auglaize County for 38 years and as a representative on county, district, and state 4-H Advisory Committees for eight years. He believed in "learning by doing" and that new experiences were wonderful teachers.  Bill would often review projects with the 4-H member, parent, or advisor and help them understand the judge's comments. He helped members to recognize their accomplishments, challenged them to learn more, and urged them to continue practicing the skills which they had acquired. 

He was widely recognized for his ability to teach young people in the art of woodworking. He served for many years as a woodworking project evaluator at the county and state level. He also served as a teacher for county and regional woodworking clinics.  Bill and his wife Anna Mae were the first recipients of the Outstanding 4-H Advisor award in 1990.

 

1997 Hall of Fame 

Orris Fields, Jr.

Orris has been a 4-H volunteer in Clinton County for 49 years. He was a member of county and state OSU Extension advisory committees for three years and was honored with a Clinton County 4-H Volunteer Alumni Award in 1994 

Orris and his family have hosted inter-state youth exchanges with Connecticut, Canada, Michigan, Tennessee, and Washington. Orris has worked with the local court system to introduce at-risk youth to the 4-H program, and has welcomed four wards of the court into his club, where he helped them to build self-esteem through positive feedback. 

Orris enjoys working with children and teaching life skills. He believes in giving youth ownership of their 4-H projects and instilling them with pride and confidence. 

Elouise Hardy 

Elouise Hardy was born and raised on a dairy farm in southern Lorain County. She was a ten year member of the "Rochester Winning Workers" 4-H club, which was founded by her mother. She has been an active 4-H volunteer for 37 years. 

Elouise was a driving force behind starting a county 4-H Endowment Fund in 1993. She helped structure the county 4-H Endowment Board, which has helped raise over $74,000 for the Endowment Fund. She has maintained contacts with State and Federal legislators and county officials to secure funding and support for Extension and 4-H programs. 

Elouise has taught 4-H advisor update sessions, 4-H club officer sessions and advisor clinics, and assisted in organizing county 4-H activities. She is a role model, mentor, and supportive 4-H advisor to hundreds of young people in Lorain County. Elouise has helped to keep the family tradition alive, as her mother, Mildred Rowland, was inducted into the Ohio 4-H Hall of Fame in 1986.  

Phyllis McDorman

Phyllis McDorman began her service to Ohio 4-H in Greene County as a 4-H member and teen leader. Since then, she has provided many hands-on activities and educational opportunities to youth in Warren County, providing them with many memorable experiences. 

The "4-H Rocket Fun Match" is an annual event which attracts nearly 50 rocket enthusiasts each summer. Phyllis and her husband Paul initiated the event 12 years ago and continue to provide supervision as Key Leaders of the program. 

Phyllis has been an active participant in Warren County's "4-H Awareness Teams." During these visits, Phyllis and teens promote 4-H and recruit new members. She has coordinated "4-H Day at Paramount's Kings Island," an event that makes the theme park a learning laboratory for a day. 

Kathleen A. Moser

Kathleen has contributed 27 years of volunteer service to 4-H in Mahoning County. She encourages youth to take a variety of projects, participate in county and state activities, and perform community service. Kathleen also encourages demonstrations, public speaking, and participation in county and state contests. As a result, 4-H'ers are called on to moderate at county functions and do 4-H promotional spots on local radio stations as well as local and even national television shows. Her 4-H'ers also give talks and demonstrations to senior citizens each year. 

For twenty-three years, Kathleen has chaired a 4-H sponsored Community Easter Egg Hunt benefiting over 400 children. She also initiated a "4-H Promotional Banner Award" at the county fair to encourage 4-H Clubs to promote the 4-H Program through their booth displays.

 

1996 Hall of Fame 

Jim Dailey

Jim Dailey's contribution to the 4-H Program far surpasses what is normally expected of community leaders. Jim has always been supportive of the traditional needs of the 4-H youth program. Jim's contributions go beyond the everyday efforts. Jim is a visionary. He has the ability to take a thought or an idea and turn it into a tremendous opportunity for young people. This is exactly what took place with the Ohio Valley Bank 4-H Scholarship Program, a small idea that has provided over $100,000 to help over 50 young people in four counties in Ohio and West Virginia. 

The uniqueness about Jim's efforts is that he does not expect those individuals who receive scholarships to do anything with the bank or him in return. Instead, he hopes that they will do something for young people in the future.

Lela Gordon

Lela first became involved in 4-H when she joined what was called a "Boys and Girls" Club as an eighth grader in grammar school. There she learned to sew and do other projects. When she married and her children became interested in 4-H, she became an advisor for the local club. During her tenure as advisor, she not only taught members to learn by doing, but instilled in them Christian principles as that was her walk in life. She not only served the local club but worked closely with the County Extension Office. There she became involved on the Advisory Committee that was instrumental in choosing agents that served the county for many years. She also was on the committee to establish the Home Demonstration group in Tuscarawas County. 

Lela Gordon was not only "Mom" to her family but she was "Mom" to the girls in her Sunday School class, to many girls who attend Camp Piedmont 4-H Camp, to an IFYE from England, and then "Grandmom" to twelve grandchildren. 

Joy Latham

Like the ripples spreading from a pebble dropped into a pond, the impact of the 4-H Program on and through Joy Latham reaches throughout Ohio. 4-H was a formative force in her family, and Joy continues that tradition. Already in 1954, Joy and her seven brothers and sisters had amassed a total of 60 years in 4-H work. 4-H activities in her native Ottawa County prepared her to be a leader there and elsewhere. For nearly 50 years, Joy's energy and example have instilled positive values in countless individuals. 

Joy Latham is active in her community. The leadership skills that she acquired through 4-H also proved valuable to her church, school system, and county. In a time of transition from a rural to a more urban population in Ohio, Joy helped the Ohio 4-H Program adapt to new conditions. Joy has been particularly involved in leadership training and program development. The interest and caring she gave to the hundreds of members she advised and the thousands of projects completed under her direction are her gifts to the future.

Elnora Sargeant

Elnora Sargeant has served as a 4-H volunteer for 56 years. She has touched and encouraged many lives during her years of service. Her high standards and personal leadership serve as a model for members, volunteers, and paid staff of the Erie County 4-H Program. New ideas flow from her, but traditional values and methods make her the rock around which many 4-H programs have been built. Elnora's leadership through serving as church choir director, Farm Bureau Women's committee member, Perkins Community Schools educator, Lutheran Memorial Home Auxiliary president, and Erie County Ag Society board member has also benefited many community residents. 

Elnora Sargeant is an outstanding, innovative leader who leads and promotes 4-H. Five of her 4-H members participated in National 4-H Congress, four have gone on to become home economists, and her own daughter serves as a 4-H agent; thus showing the world her commitment to 4-H. 

 

1995 Hall of Fame 

Gabe Campbell

One of the most significant contributions Gabe Campbell has made to the 4-H program is his involvement with the 4-H Leadership Camp for the past 31 years. His life has revolved around youth, helping them to become better people and better citizens by teaching and encouraging them to serve others, to make lasting friendships, and become community leaders. 

When the search committee for a new minister asked him to come to deliver a sermon in Akron, Ohio, a small brochure was published in which he set forth his professional goals. Quoting from one paragraph, "My best talent is helping others to help themselves, whether that is securing a job, counseling a family, or helping a person reflect upon the meaning and purpose of life. I am a "people person' and always active in the community where we live."

Vera Cook

Vera Cook has lived in Berlin Center, Ohio for 43 years. She is very active in her community through organizations such as the United Methodist Church, 4-H, and the Dublin Grange. Vera has contributed 45 years of her life to being a 4-H advisor. Her four children enjoyed 4-H, and now her grandchildren are active in 4-H. This is a very special year for Vera since it is her club's 50th anniversary. Through her leadership, she has encouraged youth to expand the 4-H program by starting their own clubs. Because of her dedication, a very high percent of her 4-H'ers have won awards for their projects, speeches, demonstrations, skits, and 4-H displays. 

In Vera's community, everyone can admire the beautiful flowers her 4-H club plants each year at the Historical Society House. Her 4-H club marches in the annual Memorial Day Parade, carrying the 4-H banner that they made. They also donate plastic eggs to the annual community Easter Egg Hunt. Her 4-H'ers take turns wearing the two bunny suits Vera has made to pass out candy to all the children who attend. Many people's lives have been touched by Vera in all that she has done through 4-H.  

Ted Kerby

Ted Kerby has been a 4-H advisor for over 37 years and has touched the lives of hundreds of young people. He spent nine years on the County 4-H Committee, many years on the County Horse Committee, was an adult advisor to the Junior Fair Board, and is past president of the Butler County Extension Advisory Committee where he was instrumental in the development of the county endowment fund. 

Mr. Kerby has been a tireless promoter of 4-H and has represented 4-H at many conferences and committees. He has lobbied groups in Washington D.C., promoting 4-H and Extension work with congressmen and senators. Because of Ted's leadership and dedicated service, he was awarded the County Ed Zorn Memorial Award and an OCEAA Friend of Extension Award. His efforts have benefited many 4-H participants over the last 37 years and will impact the 4-H Program for many years to come. 

Thomas Murray

As a native of Johnson, Pennsylvania, Tom was not familiar with the 4-H Program. But after moving to Ohio in the 1970's he learned about 4-H and became an advisor. Because of his interest in camping, he became involved in activities at 4-H Camp Whitewood in Windsor and served on the camp committee. As more leadership opportunities came along, he utilized them to the fullest extent. He became a part of the first Ashtabula County LASER DISC team, attended Regional and District volunteer forums and has been a proponent of mandatory advisor training. He has worked hard to set up advisor training workshops and clinics. Tom has also been a role model to young people by demonstrating to them the importance of commitment and concern for others. 

After his own children outgrew the 4-H program, he remained active as president of the 4-H Committee and a member of the Small Animal Committee. He serves on the Executive Committee of the Ashtabula County Extension Advisory Committee. Tom has also helped to establish clubs in communities where they were needed. Tom is still an advisor, having served for 21 years. His grandchildren are now members of his current 4-H club. 

 

1994 Hall of Fame 

Stan Harrison

As a youth, Gallia County native Stan Harrison was very active in the local 4-H Program. Mr. Harrison has never forgotten the important role that 4-H played on his success in life and has continued to support 4-H youth. Included among the projects in which he has provided assistance, is the Canter's Cave 4-H Camp/Elizabeth L. Evans Outdoor Education Center, where he provided the stimulus needed to complete over $400,000 worth of improvements, since 1987. With Mr. Harrison's insight and assistance, a district-wide citizenship camp was planned and conducted at Canter's Cave, which featured Senator John Glenn as the keynote speaker. Stan has supported the Gallia County 4-H youth program extensively, but most importantly he serves as a role model for young people. 

Mr. Harrison is active in many community improvement efforts. His involvement includes having served as chairman for the Council for Higher Education for Virginia, currently serving on the Board of Directors at the University of Rio Grande, and being an active supporter of the Ohio State University Foundation. With the accomplishments that Stan has made, he still holds strong to his Southern Ohio roots and 4-H heritage. He and his wife, Doris Ann Powell, who was also an active 4-H member in Gallia County, are members of the A.B. Graham Club of the Ohio 4-H Foundation and members of the Ohio State University President's Club.

Bob Hodson

As the President and CEO of the Hillsboro Bank and Savings, now Fifth Third, for 30 years, Bob Hodson made and continues to make an impact on the youth of Highland County. As a busy CEO, Bob served on the first committee to raise funds for permanent buildings on the Highland County Fairgrounds. 

He implemented a low interest loan payment program for 4-H members to purchase livestock, helped develop a 4-H promotional flyer that went out in all check statements, and served on the Highland County Extension Advisory Committee for 29 years representing the business community and 4-H. As a public speaker, Bob recognized countless youth and promoted the values and benefits of 4-H to the residents of Highland County. 

Bob has served on the State Extension Support Committee, the financial committee for the Elizabeth L. Evans Outdoor Education Center, Canters Cave 4-H Camp, and was chair of the Highland County 4-H Endowment, which now raised over $45,000, plus established two other endowment funds for Highland County. He is currently vice chair of the 4-H Foundation Board.

Guy Hummon

Guy A. Hummon accepted a position in Huron County as an Extension Agent in July, 1928. In 1936, while serving as president, he initiated the 4-H "A" Grade Banquet. The banquet was designed to honor any 4-H member who received a grade of "A" on any 4-H project. The fifty-eighth annual "A" Grade Banquet was held in March of 1994. Mr. Hummon also made significant contributions to Huron County 4-H Camp Conger. He was responsible for taking a fledgling 4-H program and developing it into a program unsurpassed throughout Ohio. 

Mr. Hummon moved to Wooster in 1948, where he served as public relations director for the Agricultural Experiment Station. From 1955 to 1960 Mr. Hummon and his wife lived in Chandigarh, India, where he worked for the U.S. Agency for International Development (AID). While in India, Mr. Hummon assisted with the establishment of Young Farmers Clubs, the equivalent of 4-H. 

Al Ulrich

Al Ulrich, a Wyandot County native, served as a county 4-H agent in Lorain County, an area 4-H agent in Fremont, and a State 4-H Specialist for volunteer leadership and all animal projects. He is presently a Key Leader Volunteer in Delaware County. Al was North Central regional director, secretary, and president of the National Association of Extension 4-H Agents. Al developed the first Ohio leadership training program for Junior Leaders, developed several slide sets for use by local 4-H clubs, wrote the present 4-H rabbit books, and developed new volunteer training guides and 4-H committee training materials. 

Under Al's leadership, state 4-H committees in beef, sheep, swine and dairy were developed. These committees have conducted state wide conferences and developed member and volunteer training guides. He served as Ohio State Fair 4-H Horse Superintendent and also as overall Junior Livestock Specialist.  Al has served as a mentor and advisor to many 4-H agents over the years and continues to be active in Extension programs.  

 

1993 Hall of Fame 

Darrel Bacon

Darrel Bacon is a hard-working, dedicated individual who treats everyone with respect and dignity. He is dedicated to his family, church, community, and the Mahoning County 4-H Program. 

He farms 2,000 acres of grain and alfalfa and feeds between 1,200 and 1,400 head of cattle annually with his son. His background in agriculture and finance make him a valuable member of many committees and boards in Mahoning County. Darrel is always willing to listen and is constantly looking for ways to innovate. 

Darrel Bacon has played an important role in the past, present, and future of 4-H in Mahoning County. For over half a century, he has helped to prepare responsible adults and tomorrow's leaders. Either by working with them directly or helping to secure funds for future programs and educational development, he has influenced the lives of thousands of Mahoning County 4-H'ers. 

Marvin Peterson

Marvin is a caring person who shows great concern for his family and community. Farming has been his pride and joy. His leadership has been evident in his election to the Clinton County Agricultural Society where he serves as treasurer. In 1986, the Clinton County Agricultural Society honored Marvin as an outstanding member and dedicated a day in his honor. 

His love for sports is evident by the 35 years that he served as a referee for football and basketball at the high school and collegiate level. Marvin continues to take pride in serving as a 4-H volunteer. He was instrumental in starting the 4-H calf scramble at the county fair. Former 4-H members of his are now school teachers, professors, lawyers, farmers, veterinarians, and 4-H volunteers. 

Ruth Steva

Ruth Steva was a long term supporter of 4-H and the entire Extension Service. She served as a volunteer to the program for over 30 years. She started the first inner city 4-H club in Cleveland. Because of her belief in the mission of 4-H and Extension, she donated her home and farm to it. The Ruth Arnold Steva Endowment Fund was established to enhance Extension programming in Auglaize County. 

Ruth's life and love for education can best be summarized in her own words. "First and foremost, there must be a genuine love for students. The teacher much be the shining example for we teach by our example. The teacher must know students individually and plan to meet individual needs. Frequent communication between parents and teacher will make a noticeable difference in the final success story." These quotes reflect not only the woman, Ruth Steva, but also the goals for which the Ohio 4-H Program strives.

Walter Yeager

Walter Yeager is a dedicated individual who is committed to working with the youth in Mahoning County. 4-H has played a vital role in his life for over 16 years. 

Being involved in agriculture all of his life, Walter is able to share the values and skills he himself learned as a 4-H member. This blending of traditional values with new technology has made him a valuable resource. His extensive knowledge of the sheep industry and market livestock practices has been shared with former 4-H members throughout the United States. Thousands of young people in Mahoning County have been able to be a part of the 4-H experience due to Walter's work as an advisor and his ability to secure funding for educational programs.

 

1992 Hall of Fame 

Lester A. Cronin

Throughout the years, Les Cronin was looked to by leaders in 4-H and the total Cooperative Extension Service as the ideal role model. His strong belief in people, his emphasis on team work, and his follow-through in practice as well as work contributed to a major positive impact on the lives of thousands of young people and adults through eastern Ohio and statewide. Although an Agricultural Agent for the Cooperative Extension Service, he spent as much time working with young people and volunteer leaders as he did with producers. He did this because he believed in the program and knew that investments made in young people and volunteer leaders would pay dividends in future generations and would multiply the influence of his leadership. 

Les was very supportive of the IFYE program. He became acquainted with the young people coming into the USA and helped give them a better understanding of American youth, life, and culture. He was known for visiting the host families and taking the exchange student with him on farm visits. He also took it upon himself to find the host families and raise money for them. 

Les Cronin had high moral and family values and was flexible according to circumstances and conditions within the county. He was 'mission driven' and upheld the philosophy of Extension in helping people in whatever he was involved. He was not only a good listener, but also a great communicator who gave his ideas freely. 

Joan D. Eyerman

It is evident that Joan Eyerman very much enjoys working with young people. She believes in our youth, the leaders of our tomorrow. Joan likes the challenges of organizing activities and seeing them through to the end. 4-H has played a big part in the life of her family. They have four generations of 4-H leadership. She is the third generation, with 26 years as a 4-H leader. 

Joan believes strongly that 4-H provides skills for youth development and enhances family strengths. She also feels that 4-H builds self-esteem in young people, an important aspect for successful leadership development. Joan works with 4-H because young people often find their lifetime careers from 4-H project work. Joan has helped young people expand their cultural awareness by leading older youth groups on exchange visits with six different states. She has given much of her time to the 4-H program. 

It is evident that Joan is sincere in her support of the betterment of our society. Besides her active involvement in 4-H, she has been active through her church and community. She has planned and organized youth and adult retreats, has been an active member of Farm Bureau, and has served many hours as a volunteer for nursing homes and children's home. Joan has given countless volunteers hours for the betterment of youth and adults.

Tony Puskarich

Anthony (Tony) Puskarich is a generous person who is dedicated to the 4-H Program in Ohio. He contributes both financially and personally to recognition efforts at the local, county, district, and state levels. As president of Cravat Coal Co., he sponsors pins for all 4-H advisors in Ohio and has done so for 15 years. For more than 21 years, he has sponsored a banquet, pins, trophies, and plaques for a district recognition program honoring 4-H members. 

Locally, he has provided equipment and human resources for the improvement of 4-H Camp Piedmont, has helped to establish the International Mining and Manufacturing Festival at Cadiz each year, has devoted time and effort to the Puskarich Public Library, and has supported efforts to reclaim strip mining areas. 

Characterized by friends and associates as 'interested in people, accepting of challenges, gracious, patriotic, youth, and community oriented,' Tony has significantly influenced the lives of many families throughout Ohio. He has given time and effort to groups such as the Ohio 4-H Foundation, The Ohio State University, coal organizations, schools, and church groups. He is highly respected by co-workers, friends, family and associates. 

Wilbur C. Tomlinson, Jr. 

Since his own days as a 4-H'er, camp counselor, and IFYE, Wilbur has been a continuous positive influence on his world. That is equally true of his four children and of 4-H'ers who were under his guidance as an advisor. 

Throughout his adult life, he has been heavily involved in volunteer work. His choice of community organizations shows his willingness to make an impact. His positions in those organizations prove that he has the leadership skills and personal characteristics that inspire others. 

His most impressive involvement has been in informal international relations. After visiting New Zealand in 1954 as a 4-H IFYE, Wilbur's home became an open house for the world. He has hosted 36 guests from countries such as New Zealand, Australia, Nepal, Thailand, Kenya, Poland, Guatemala, Sweden, England, and France, in addition to individuals from all across the United States. He has maintained contact with most of these people over the years and has been active in recruiting other host families and IFYE candidates. 

 

1991 Hall of Fame 

Mildred Cronebaugh

Mildred Cronebaugh is one of the great American heroes in our country today. Statistics show that fewer young people are becoming involved in community organizations and programs, and that more are becoming concerned about 'me.' This is not so with 4-H members in Tuscarawas County. Mildred has the ability to spread her enthusiasm about 4-H. Her club has won the "Keep Ohio Beautiful" award for 22 years and won the National Colgate 'Youth for America' award for community service twice.

Although Mildred's husband died in the early 1950's, she continued to manage the 184-acre dairy and grain farm that has been in the family for more than 100 years. She also raised two children and cared for her elderly father. In addition, she has touched the lives of more than 400 young people, providing them with skills in areas such as decision-making and communications. Mildred's motives are that she "enjoys doing it and believes working with and for youth is one of the best things we can do as citizens."

Barb Ditmer

A woman of many talents, Barb Ditmer has been a supporter of 4-H since her membership in a local 4-H club in the 1950's. Not only has she worked with traditional 4-H programs but she has initiated programs for 'at risk' youth in Sidney. She helped to develop the livestock interview process used in many counties throughout Ohio. With the help of her son Eric, a videotape was produced to help train potential livestock interviewers. She also served as chairperson of the State 4-H Advisory Committee in 1984.

Barb has worked to provide local educational efforts directed at issue-based programming efforts for youth who are at risk. In 1989, she gained the cooperation of a local disadvantaged youth outreach agency, 'the Alpha Center,' to begin an after school 4-H gardening club. She supervised the organization, found a garden plot, organized a community service project, and encouraged 'youth at risk' to exhibit at the local fair. The young people used produce from their garden to provide refreshments for their local achievement meeting. "I see more and more how much 4-H is needed. 4-H is a positive activity. It keeps youngsters busy so that they don't have time for negative things," says Barb.

Ed Johnson

For the past 40 years, Ed Johnson has unselfishly given his time and talents to the Ohio 4-H Program. Through his Agriculture Broadcasting Radio and Television Network, he has done more to promote Ohio 4-H than any one person in the last 15 years. Why? Because he believes in 4-H and what it stands for.

From serving as President of the Ohio 4-H Foundation to broadcasting 4-H activities and county fairs around the state, Ed has become synonymous with 4-H and Ohio State University Extension. He is a member of the A.B. Graham Club.

Ed gives tirelessly of his time and energy to 4-H. His involvement and dedication to 4-H and others is an inspiration to all.  

Barbra Johnston

More than thirty years ago, Barbara Johnston's interest in 4-H was ignited as a young 4-H member at Camp Clifton. Because of her love of the outdoors, she became a lay member of the camp corporation. She served as trustee and as a member of the personnel, audit, long range programs, and craft committees so that future generations of young people could have the same great back-to-nature experiences. Her efforts have seen the camp develop into an American Camping Association accredited camp with a full-time manager.

As a leader, Barbara has been involved in the lives of approximately 400 young people in her clubs. Former members have become radio personalities, doctors, lawyers, psychologists, herdsmen, school administrators, farmers, military officials, homemakers, teachers, salespeople, and members of the clergy. Many credit their career choices and abilities to their 4-H experience. Barbara's care and concern is expressed in the attitudes of older 4-H members who now serve as advisors and members of the 4-H Home Economics Committee.

 

1990 Hall of Fame 

Charles Boyles

A noted speaker throughout the country, Charlie Boyles has shown high regard for 4-H volunteer leaders and youth. He has been a guest speaker for more than 100 clubs. The former manager of the Eastern Ohio Research and Development Center in Noble County and the State Feeder Calf Round-Up. 

Charlie and his wife Virginia were among the group of people from Ohio who participated in the "People to People" exchange trip to China or Japan. Using his talent as a public speaker, Charlie encouraged audiences to seek new adventures, never lose sight of what we have in America, and to share our knowledge, especially in agriculture.

Frederick “Fred” C. Eppley

For 54 years, 4-H has been a major part of Fred Eppley's life. Throughout 44 years as an advisor, Fred Eppley and the 4-H band which he leads have been an important part of the lives of hundreds of young people. His life work as a farmer may make him seem like an unlikely candidate for a 4-H band advisor, however, Fred has a passion for music. With other family members, he owns and operates a 700-acre potato and grain farm. Music is his hobby, not the basis for his paycheck. While in high school, Fred was active in band and choir. He still plays the trumpet, tuba, piano, and organ, but has never had any formal musical education beyond high school. 

Fred believes the 4-H band not only teaches and improves the musical skills of members, but just as importantly guides young people into good citizenship through the group cooperation and social skills they learn as 4-H members. 

Dorothy Montgomery

Dorothy Montgomery has unselfishly given her time and talents to improve the quality of life for many people. She has been a positive role model, helper, motivator, teacher, listener and friend. Her efforts have gone far beyond the boundaries of Muskingum County. Dorothy has taught leadership and responsibility by providing opportunities for young people to achieve more than they thought possible. Her guidance of the county Junior Leadership 4-H Club is a model for other county programs throughout Ohio. 

Dorothy serves tirelessly on several Extension committees (county, district, and state levels). Her dedication to community projects is an inspiration to others. Her enthusiasm and positive attitude impacts those around her. Dorothy believes in kids and 4-H and has dedicated her life to making the best better!

Jack L. Ternes

Jack Ternes has been advisor, teacher, and confidant to many youth and adults during his 34 years of involvement with 4-H and the Lorain County Fair. His endless energy, love for youth, and innovative ideas have improved the 4-H experience for many. Jack was a 4-H club advisor for 23 years. In the 1950's he organized one of the first horse clubs in Lorain County and was a key volunteer in raising funds to build two 4-H horse barns and a show ring on the fairgrounds. In 1971 he organized a small animal 4-H club. 

Jack has served on the County 4-H Committee and the County 4-H Horse Council. Since 1961 he has been a director of the Lorain county Fair Board. He is a strong believer in the value of county fairs as learning laboratories for young people. Over the years Jack has led rabbit and small animal clinics, judged at county fairs, and been involved in the Ohio Rabbit School. He has been active in state and national animal clubs and associations, and works to expand youth education in those groups.