Dickinson County residents had no choice when the Michigan State University Extension and 4-H, both more-than-100-year-old programs, were stripped away by the four new Dickinson County Board members in their very first meeting in January.

Since that meeting, county residents have continuously stood up in front of the board and voiced how important both are to our community … to our lives,our youth, our local economy.

The MSU Extension director and the 4-H program director have debunked every piece of incorrect information certain board members used to defend their unfortunate votes.

Paul Putnam and Jessica Ice have also provided to our board massive amounts of information through all these months since — via email, handouts, and personal meetings at the board member’s convenience.

County youth have provided testimonials at many board meetings about their extremely positive experiences in 4-H, including through the Proud Equestrian Program, 4-H STEM programs including science and technology and agricultural involvement. It was plain to see how they blossomed socially as well through these experiences and programs.

On Monday, the Dickinson County Board will consider whether to re-instate or not the $81,000 of state marijuana tax monies — not property tax monies, not general fund — to MSU Extension/4-H. The monies are much more than the salary of the program coordinator.

Please, show support and be there if you can. Please.

Our youth, adults, elderly and disabled all benefit as well from the wide range of free programs offered by MSU Extension.