Quick 5 questions for Carol Jean Mays

1 How important is the University of Missouri Extension Service in the life of this community? The University of Missouri Extension program is of tremendous service to this community. Its mission is to serve all of our people by extending the research-based knowledge and problem solving resources of the University of Missouri to everyone by focusing on the high priority needs of our citizens.

2 What Extension programs best serve consumers and families in these tough economic times? All Extension programs serve our citizens well who choose to avail themselves of a particular program. In tough economic times like these individuals might be attracted to programs like Affordable Housing & Sustainable Environments, Personal Finance, Environmental Efficiencies, Workforce Development, Master Gardners, Rent Smart or Eating From the Garden.



3 How do you keep Extension programs relevant to the suburban lifestyle? There is no problem keeping Extension Programs relevant to the suburban lifestyle. There are more than 200 programs offered to the public statewide so programs most suited to the local population are selected through a cooperative effort between MU Extension professionals and council members.



4 Which of the programs for children are the most popular and successful? The 4-H Youth Development Program has long been a favorite with many children in Jackson County. Currently, Extension works as a partner with LINC to provide after-school programs in many school districts. Eating From the Garden is currently very popular, as is Building Robots for older youth. In some areas old favorites like horse training and raising farm animals continue to be important.



5 Do you garden? Has the Extension Service helped you grow better roses or tomatoes? On a personal level, Extension has been an important part of my life since I was young. I still cherish cookbooks published when I was in school. We often go to Extension to have our soil tested to improve its quality and yes, I have had a superior growing season in my backyard this year which included both roses and tomatoes. Now, I will make tomato sauce from some of the overflow tomato crop using one of those old cookbooks!