Rose State College Athletes Clean up Storm Damage at the Historic Harn Homestead Published December 3, 2015 by Ali Sexton

Members of the Rose State College softball team clear fallen branches from the land surrounding the school building at the Harn Homestead.

The sound of chainsaws and cracking limbs echo through the 10-acre plot of land that is occupied by the Harn Homestead and 1889ers museum in Oklahoma City.  Members of the Rose State College baseball, softball, and soccer teams are hard at work removing debris from the property today.

The ice storm that hit Oklahoma City this past weekend did a great deal of damage to areas across the state.  One of the hard hit areas included the Harn Homestead which sits near the State Capitol building.  It is a historic Oklahoma property which gives visitors a “hands-on” and “minds-on” experience, according to their website (www.harnhomestead.com). 

One of the biggest events of the year hosted at the Harn Homestead is a Territorial Christmas complete with hayrides, holiday crafts, Harn House tours, and a visit with Santa. Unfortunately, the big event falls just days after an ice storm ravaged the trees and landscape surrounding the historic home-turned-museum.  Harn Homestead Education Director, David Sapper, said, “Three days ago, we didn’t know if we were going to be able to have the Territorial Christmas because of the damage but thank to Rose State’s athletes we are back on schedule. We depend so much on volunteer help and were thrilled that a group from Rose State wanted to help remove debris from the ice storm.”

While watching the evening news, Joey Davault, Rose State College Athletic Director, saw a story detailing the toll that the ice took on the property.  DaVault said, “It hit me that they are having a big event for kids and need help getting the property cleaned up from the ice damage. I thought this would be a great way for our students to give back and another opportunity to encourage them to serve.”  Each of the athletic team coaches gave their athletes the option to participate in the cleanup. 

Approximately 40 representatives from the baseball, softball, and soccer teams volunteered without hesitation to serve as the clean-up crew during what could be a stressful time for any student as final exams are scheduled for next week.  Bailey Bacon, Rose State soccer player was thankful her coach gave her the opportunity to serve the community.  Bacon said, “This is the perfect time of year to volunteer. Christmas is right around the corner and I can’t think of a better way to celebrate than by helping someone in need.” 

Rose State athletes volunteer throughout the year and actively seek out new opportunities to serve.

About Rose State College:

Rose State College is a community college offering more than 60 degree and skilled-occupational programs conveniently located seven minutes from downtown Oklahoma City. www.rose.edu