The Rotary Club of Dayton welcomed Monica Ripkowski, Family and Community Health County Extension Agent with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, as the guest speaker during its weekly luncheon at the Dayton Community Center.
The program was sponsored by Rotarian Jeff Jones, with Ripkowski introduced by Dr. Luke Chachere. She shared information about the educational programs, resources and services available to Liberty County residents through Texas A&M AgriLife Extension.
Ripkowski, who has a background in education, explained that the Extension Service connects research conducted by Texas A&M University with communities throughout the state.
“Our mission is to improve the lives of Texans through research-based education,” she said.
She noted that Extension services go well beyond agriculture, offering educational opportunities in health, nutrition, family wellness, youth development, disaster preparedness and community improvement.
Ripkowski also highlighted the work of fellow Extension Agent Jason Bowen, who specializes in agriculture and natural resources. Bowen assists landowners, farmers and livestock producers with soil and water testing, pond management, tree health and other agricultural concerns.
Many Extension services are available at no cost to residents, although some specialized programs require a small fee to cover materials.
In discussing her own work in family and community health, Ripkowski described partnerships with local school districts, senior centers, churches and community organizations. Among the programs offered is one designed to improve vehicle safety for older drivers. Trained professionals help senior citizens become familiar with their vehicles’ safety features, adjust seating positions and improve overall driving safety.
Another focus of the presentation was the continued growth of Liberty County’s 4-H program. Ripkowski reported that 288 young people and more than 75 adult volunteers have already enrolled for the current year, with 11 active clubs throughout the county.
While 4-H is often associated with livestock exhibitions, Ripkowski explained that participants also have opportunities to explore public speaking, food preparation, fashion design, leadership development and other hands-on activities. She emphasized that building confidence, communication skills, responsibility and leadership is at the heart of the 4-H program.
Following the presentation, Rotary Club President Elizabeth Robertson thanked Ripkowski for sharing information about the Extension Service and recognized Jones and Chachere for organizing the program.
The meeting concluded with updates on the club’s fundraising efforts. Members are selling $50 raffle tickets for a chance to win one of three $1,000 Visa gift cards. Each Rotarian has been challenged to sell at least 20 tickets, with proceeds supporting the club’s community service projects.
The drawing will be held Dec. 5, 2026, during the Nutcracker Market at the Dayton Community Center.