Live at Noon on WHIZ-TV

I have always said I am a textbook “introvert.” An introvert is a person whose personality is typically reserved or quiet, who tends to be introspective and enjoys spending time alone.  Introverts gain energy through solitude and quiet. My dear departed mother on the other hand could talk with anyone on any topic, and silence made her uncomfortable.

For most people, especially me, public speaking comes with a great deal of stress. My public speaking career began in high school as President of our FFA chapter. Throughout my career in public served to Perry County, public speaking became and continues to be a vital portion of my commitment to this County.

In my first year as Perry County Commissioner, I set up a monthly spot on the WHIZ TV live at noon, broadcast, which was a first for the Perry County Commissioner’s office. So, as you can believe, for this introvert to voluntarily subject myself to talking on a live TV broadcast takes a great deal of fortitude. However, I made that commitment and will continue with these appearances to present thoughtful and honest information about Perry County.

I believe this TV spot allows me to get my message directly and clearly to the public. It provides me one more opportunity for additional outreach and to get more information out to the public on a monthly basis.

Sometimes I will bring a guest with me. (I think it is great that I am able to share this stressfully experience with others). Guests joining me are typically Perry County department heads, or another elected county official who has timely information about their office or organization to share. The spot is not long, typically 5-7 minutes, but it’s a great opportunity to share information and go that extra mile as a Commissioner to communicate with the public.

I started this in 2017, my first year in office, and continue monthly and will do so throughout my career as a Perry County Commissioner.

You can view videos of these visits with WHIZ in the In The News section, organized by their air date. 

By Ben Carpenter

Ben Carpenter has served as one of three Perry County Ohio Commissioners since 2016. A former director of Perry County's Soil & Water District, Ben champions responsible use of county funds and land. He and his wife Katrina live on Ben's original family farm just outside Somerset, Ohio where they raise grass-fed Black Angus and Longhorn cattle.