LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commemorating the Centennial Celebration of the
Jefferson County Cooperative Extension

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize that the
quality and character of life in the communities across New York State
are reflective of the concerned and dedicated efforts of those organiza-
tions and individuals that are devoted to the welfare of the community
and its citizenry; and
WHEREAS, It is also the sense of this Legislative Body that the quali-
ty of life of the citizens of the State of New York is greatly enriched
by its exceptional cultural, educational and recreational institutions;
these institutions give positive definition to the profile and disposi-
tion of the communities of the State of New York and profoundly
strengthen our society with their commitment; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commem-
orate the Centennial Celebration of the Jefferson County Cooperative
Extension; this auspicious occasion will be celebrated on Saturday, June
9, 2012, at an Open House at 4-H Camp Wabasso in Redwood, New York; and
WHEREAS, Founded in 1912 with the hiring of agricultural agent, F. E.
Robertson by the Watertown Chamber of Commerce in order to institute one
of our nation's first farm bureaus, the program became a model and a
standard followed by farm bureaus throughout New York State; and
WHEREAS, The Jefferson County Cooperative Extension was formed for the
purpose of helping farm families purchase equipment, market produce and
make their community a better place; and
WHEREAS, In keeping with the belief that the most important crop
raised by farm families is their children, the Jefferson County Cooper-
ative Extension began working with youth in 1913 in what would later
become its 4-H program, to tackle specific tasks such as gardening,
sewing and raising calves; and
WHEREAS, During World Wars I and II, the Jefferson County Cooperative
Extension helped the State and the nation tackle food, farm labor, gas
and farm equipment shortages; and
WHEREAS, 4-H Camp Wabasso was established by the Cooperative Extension
in 1950, to provide a permanent camping program for Jefferson County
farm families; and
WHEREAS, Throughout its history, the Jefferson County Cooperative
Extension has responded to the needs and interests of the community with
programs aimed at farm women, beginning in 1916, and involving nutri-
tion, consumer education, budgeting and child care, and national issues
such as the 1970's war on poverty with its "Expanded Food and Nutrition
Education Program"; and
WHEREAS, Today the Jefferson County Cooperative Extension continues to
focus on agricultural outreach, farm business management, dairy and
livestock education, as well as the education of youth in animal
science, gardening, ecology, and community service; and
WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when an organ-
ization of such noble aims and accomplishments is brought to our atten-
tion, it should be recognized and applauded by all the citizens of this
great Empire State; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the Centennial Celebration of the Jefferson County Cooper-
ative Extension; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to the Jefferson County Cooperative Extension.