James Overholt recognized at Sale of Champions
James Overholt was recognized at the Sale of Champions Thursday night in Hunter Arena. He is pictured here receiving tickets to attend a recent OSU game.
COSHOCTON – Before the Sale of Champions began last Thursday night, James Overholt was surprised when he was honored in Hunter Arena.
Overholt and his family have been involved in 4-H since the early 1950s. He and his brothers raised and showed hogs, even going to the Ohio State Fair. Overholt and his wife Mary Lou were 4-H adviser for more than 10 years, and he was also a part of a group that organized a campaign in 1987 to build rabbit cages in the rabbit barn that are still being used today.
Overholt served on many committees in a 39-year span. Some of those committees include key leader for rabbits for approximately 20 years, a small animal representative on the Coshocton County 4-H advisory committee, and volunteered at the OSU Extension Office. He was also recognized by the Ohio House of Representatives upon 35 years of service with 4-H.
“Jim has always been very professional and responsible as a 4-H volunteer during his time working with our junior fair auction,” said Sarah Jane Lindsay. “He devoted his time and skills for our local youth and believed in the value of 4-H and FFA programs. He was always a pleasure to work with during activities, even during hectic, stressful times.”
Overholt was also instrumental in the Junior Fair Auction computer program, beginning in the late 1980s and he has also helped the Extension Office by developing Microsoft Access recordkeeping for the countywide 4-H Frozen Foods Program.
In 1999, Overholt was awarded the 4-H Ambassador Award. He is a retiree from the education field after more than 33 years as a teacher and school principal.
“He loves 4-H and enjoys working with the youth in the community,” said Overholt’s wife, Mary Lou. “4-H is always in his blood. He’s very deserving of this award, and the other group taking over is doing a wonderful job too.”
Overholt received an Ohio State University football office chair, a signed football by OSU coaches, and two tickets to a recent OSU game.
“It feels great,” said Overholt. “I’ve enjoyed the fair a lot. It’s in my blood and I’ve had a good time doing it. I appreciate their recognition and I’m very relieved to have someone take my place.”
beth@coshoctoncountybeacon.com
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