Beaver Local senior Sara Bailey is being recognized as the Ohio 4-H Teen of the Year and will represent Columbiana County in the 4-H Global Immersion Project in Greece. She has been involved in 4-H since she was 6 years old, showing a variety of animals and demonstrating leadership and service. Sara has also been involved in other activities at school, such as band and the Science Club, and plans to study animal sciences at The Ohio State University to become a veterinarian.

The Columbiana County commissioners declared March 2 through March 8 as Columbiana County 4-H Week to promote awareness and growth in the 4-H program. Sara shared her 4-H journey with the commissioners, highlighting her involvement in leadership roles and national conferences. She was nominated for Ohio 4-H Teen of the Year by Ohio State University Extension 4-H Educator Audrey Dimmerling and plans to attend the American Farm School in Greece with other Ohio 4-Hers.

4-H Program Assistant Amie Cope praised Sara as a great representative of Columbiana County and emphasized the growth of the 4-H program, with over 700 youth and 170 volunteers involved. Sara encourages new 4-H members to take advantage of opportunities presented to them and not be afraid to jump in headfirst. The 4-H program offers a variety of opportunities beyond livestock, and members like Sara have the chance to travel the world and make a positive impact in their communities.