Dear co-workers:
As I was preparing my letter to send to you, and contemplating the recent budget woes of Virginia, and the tremendous affect it has had on the 4-H program, I happened to come across a letter that Dr. Jim Rutledge, State 4-H Leader in Oregon wrote. I decided to include his letter to you as my cover letter. Jim's letter places events in perspective as we arrive with the anniversary of the September 11 attack on America.
"How can our thoughts be on anything but the anniversary of 9 - 11? For the past few days all the news and media coverage has been on special celebrations and remembrances that have already started or that will take place during the rest of the week and month. It is an important time for us to stop and think about the events of the past year.
The loss of life in the World Trade Centers, Pentagon, and on the airlines was a terrible tragedy. The heroism of passengers on flight 93, and that of the police, firefighters, news people, and every day citizens has been well documented and appropriately recognized. Our way of looking at our freedoms and our responsibilities has been greatly changed, and will not soon return to the pre 9-11 apathy of the past.
However, as we pause this week to remember the tragedy, we must not forget that in the year since the horrible attacks, more people have died in auto accidents, more children have been abused, more elderly have been duped out of their savings, and more youth have taken their first cigarette or illegal drug than the number that died on 9-11. If we are going to be more patriotic, more concerned about the future safety of our communities, and the health and welfare of our young and old, we must do more than wave a flag, and more than to hope for justice on foreign shores.
We must think about what it means to be a citizen of the United States of America..., or wherever we live. We must think about what it means to be safe in our "homeland". I believe when we think about homeland security, we must think about how important it is for young people to grow up with a sense of who they are and what wonderful gifts they have as citizens in a free democracy. I believe it is what each of YOU is doing to help young people grow up with the skills to be contributing members of this society, that will ensure our homeland security. For the only way we will ever be secure as a nation or as a people, is when every citizen knows that he or she can and must be a member of the same community and that he or she must contribute in a positive way. There is no place in a secure homeland for prejudice or ignorance, and no place for the person who is not concerned about themself as well as their family and their community.
...I know in my heart that guns and bombs cannot make us safe by themselves. Only when every citizen is fully prepared to be part of the community can all of us be safe, and that is one of the things that 4-H can help provide in our communities. Through our 4-H program we help youth and their families develop those skills and attitudes that can contribute to making our homeland secure.
I applaud you for all that you are doing, and I thank you.
This week as I am reminded of the tragedy of 9-11, I will certainly stop to remember those who gave their lives, and all the family members who survive in spite of their loss. I will pray that our nation will be strong, and that justice will prevail around the world, but I will also pause to think about all the ways we can insure a safe and secure homeland by giving today's youth the tools they need to be responsible, contributing members of our communities. I hope you will do the same. God Bless America!"
(Bob Meadows)
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Important Information and Policy Update
At the August 16, 2002 meeting of the Virginia 4-H Leadership Council, the following policies were approved. I am sending these to each of you not only to provide update on the latest changes, but also to make everyone aware of these since we have so many vacancies. Please know that we will be developing the new '4-H Registration Packet' that includes the three forms, and will send these to you in the near future. Each unit will need to follow the Standardized Code-of-Conduct Policy as provided below.
- Standardized Registration Packet - Virginia 4-H should develop a new "4-H Registration Packet," which would be an Extension publication and would include three (3) forms:
- 4-H Enrollment Form
- 4-H Health History Report Form
- 4-H Code of Conduct (See Policy Statement #2 below)
- Standardized Code-of-Conduct Policy - Each Virginia 4-H unit (i.e. county, city, and 4-H Center) district, and state will use a code-of-conduct for all 4-H programs/events. The code-of-conduct will include standardized expectations and will be a new 4-H publication. Although this code of conduct would be available in the packet of forms suggested in Part 1 above, it should also be a separate on-line publication that could be formatted (i.e. Word or Wordperfect format) to allow Extension Agents, Program Directors, etc. to add additional items as needed.
- Use-of-Force Policy - Virginia Cooperative Extension staff (Extension Agents, Extension Specialists, Program Assistants, Program Directors, 4-H Center summer camp staff members) and registered volunteers may verbally intervene in situations that might cause harm to a 4-H participant.
Virginia Cooperative Extension staff have a responsibility to maintain a safe and orderly environment. If physical intervention is necessary to prevent 4-H participants from harming themselves or others, then VCE staff may use physical restraint. The amount of force used will only be that amount of force necessary to restrain the participant(s) and prevent harm or further harm from occurring. Whenever "less intrusive measures" are possible, they will be used.
- Search and Seizure Policy - Virginia Cooperative Extension staff have the right to conduct a search of participants' outer clothing, luggage, personal belongings, lodging rooms, furniture being used by a participant if there is "reasonable suspicion" that the participants has something in his/her possession that is not allowed on-site, such as drugs, alcohol, and weapons. Any contraband that is found will be handled according to state and local laws. If, for whatever reason, a search is necessary, parents/guardians will be notified of the incident, the reason for the search, and the result of the search.
- Medication Policy - Each Virginia 4-H unit, district, and state will develop procedures for the collection, handling, storage, administration, and returning of medication to 4-H participants.
When 4-H programs/events are conducted at a 4-H Center, the medication policies for that 4-H Center should be followed. Extension Agents and 4-H Center program directors should work together to develop a unified medication policy when medications are collected and stored prior to transportation to a 4-H Center. In addition, 4-H Centers have the responsibility to return all medications according to how they were received.
A medication form must be completed for all 4-H participants (youth, volunteers, adults). The medication form should identify the following: (1) name of medication, (2) purpose of medication, (3) appropriate dosage, and (4) special directions for the administration of medication.
Medication can only be dispensed from its original container. Zip lock bags, other bottles, bottles printed with someone else's name, or any other type of container besides the original will not be accepted.
Medication must be clearly labeled with the 4-H participant's name, medication name, dosage, and instructions. Medications must be administered according to the actual dosage listed on the bottle, unless there is a written note from the prescribing physician outlining different instructions for the administration of medications.
Instructions for all medications must be listed in English. If instructions are not in English, the appropriate translation must be provided.
Medications must be stored in a secure, locked area. Any exceptions for special medical needs must be approved by the medical staff for the 4-H program/event or the representative in charge of the 4-H program/event.
(Bob Meadows)
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2003 4-H In-service Cancelled
Due to budget reductions, the 2003 4-H Inservice scheduled for January 28-31, 2002 has been cancelled. Although discussion has taken place regarding the need for some type of statewide meeting to talk about short-term strategic planning in response to budget cuts, such a meeting has not been approved and funds for such a meeting have not been identified.
(Barry A. Garst )
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REMINDER: 2003 Master 4-H Training to be Conducted at the
Northern Virginia 4-H Educational Center
The State 4-H Office will offer Master 4-H Training on March 4-7, 2003. The Master 4-H Training program, which is based upon the Master 4-H Volunteer model, is a staff development event for both salaried and volunteer staff who want to increase knowledge or skills in a specific area for which the training is provided. The following tracks may be offered (tentative):
- 4-H Camp Director
- Resource Development (fundraising/grant writing)
- Volunteer Development / Recruiter Coach
- Project Wet / Wild / Learning Tree Facilitator
- Youth Nutrition (related to childhood obesity)
- Developing/ Coordinating/ Maintaining 4-H Clubs
Each track will consist of 16 or more hours of programming designed to provide not only a solid knowledge base, but also to include an element of practical application of that knowledge based in the "real world" environment. For more information about Master 4-H Training, look for additional information through emails and in upcoming 4-H Newsletters. If you have questions about this event, contact Barry Garst at bgarst@vt.edu or (540) 231-6373.
(Barry Garst)
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Fall Conference of the Virginia Association Of 4-H Volunteer Leaders
Please find attached the schedule and Registration Form for the upcoming Fall Conference of the Virginia Association of Adult 4-H Volunteer Leaders, scheduled for Saturday-Sunday, November 16-17, 2002, at the Hotel Roanoke. We were able to secure a really good price for the conference and invite you and other salaried and volunteer staff to attend.
Be sure to call the Hotel Roanoke for reservations of rooms by the deadline date of October 16. Also, your Registration Form and $50.00 is due by the deadline date of November 2. Hope to see you at the Fall Conference of VAA4-HVL--"4-H Shines in the Valley." More information and registration form may be found on the 4-H vounteer website http://www.ext.vt.edu/resources/4h/volunteers.html#meet
(Bob Meadows)
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Development of Options for Planning/Staffing 2003 Junior 4-H Camp
With the loss of faculty/staff due to early retirement, one of the biggest challenges that Virginia 4-H faces is identifying viable options for planning and staffing our Junior 4-H camp program. Over the past 2 months, the State 4-H Office has been developing a list of options for planning and staffing Junior 4-H Camp. This list reflects input from multiple groups. Once this list has been finalized and approved, it will be shared with the system. If you have an idea for planning/ staffing Junior 4-H camp (and other camps), or if you have any questions regarding this issue, please contact Barry Garst at bgarst@vt.edu.
(Barry Garst)
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4-H Camp Participation Data Due via 4-H Plus
As was reported earlier this year, all 4-H camping participation data should now be entered via the 4-H Plus system, for all camps including: Junior 4-H camp, other residential 4-H camps, 4-H day camps, and 4-H specialty camps. Please be sure to enter complete information for all of your 4-H camping programs. If you have questions, please contact Billie Cline at bcline@vt.edu or Barry Garst at bgarst@vt.edu.
(Barry Garst)
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2002 Future 4-H Camp Professional Applications Due
Applications for the 2002 Future 4-H Camp Professional Award are due October 1, 2002. This competitive award, which has been awarded annually since 2001, is available to outstanding 4-H summer camp staff members who have completed at least one-year of seasonal employment at one of Virginia's 4-H educational centers. Award winners will receive $250 that can be used for educational and professional development purposes. Application information can be obtained from a 4-H Center Program Director or from Barry Garst @bgarst@vt.edu.
(Barry Garst,)
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Tax Check-Off Option to Assist 4-H Educational Centers
Virginia residents will soon have the opportunity to help the Virginia 4-H program by supporting Virginia's 4-H educational centers. The 2003 Virginia tax forms will include a check-off box that will allow individuals to designate all- or a portion of- their tax return to Virginia's six (6) 4-H educational centers. These funds will greatly assist the 4-H program by helping the 4-H Centers to keep program and service costs reasonable for 4-H youth and adults working with those youth.
It is important that you seriously consider giving all- or a portion of- your 2003 tax return to the 4-H Centers, by checking the box marked "4-H educational centers," and indicating the amount that you wish to donate. In addition, please share this information with your 4-H volunteers, 4-H supporters, and friends of 4-H in your unit.
This check-off option will be available on Virginia tax forms for the next 5 years, at which time legislation will have to be passed to extend the check-off program. For more information, contact Barry Garst at bgarst@vt.edu or (540) 231-6373.
(Barry Garst)
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Smith Mountain Lake 4-H Center Website
The Smith Mountain Lake 4-H Educational Conference Center has launched its own web site with an emphasis on conferencing and the opportunity to support the Center with on-line giving. We hope this web site proves to be successful in generating new interest in our Center and revenue for our operations. We plan to share our success with this site with our five partner 4-H Centers throughout the state.
Please visit our web site http://www.retreatatsmithmountainlake.com/ - and feel free to book a reservation (individual or group) or make a donation while you're there!
(Dave Murray)
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Upcoming Events at Smith Mt Lake 4-H Center
2002 4-H Outdoor Adventure Camp Canoeing, Kayaking, GPS, Low Ropes, Tent & Shelters and much more.. Ages 11-14, October 11-13, Smith Mt Lake 4-H Center. Cost $60. contact Becky Gilles at (540) 721-2759 or email at bgilles@vt.edu
4-H Fall Teen Weekend -- Leadership in the Real World, November 9-10..Learn how to rent an apartment, balance a checkbook, more about the Stockmarket, primitive skills, riflery, climbing wall and much more. Cost $50. contact Becky Gilles at (540) 721-2759 or email at bgilles@vt.edu.
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SW 4-H Center Fall Events at Southwest Virginia 4-H Educational Center, Inc
Has several fall events planned that may be of interest to 4-Hers, volunteers, others.
- Appalachian Heritage Day Festival October 12 -
- Teen Leadership Conference November 22-24 - Ages 14-19 -- Cost $50. Focus on building leadership skills, interviewing skills , building resumes, financial responsibilities, community service, dining etiquette, character counts, careers, and more
- Southwest District Cloverbud Camp "Holiday Celebration" December 6-8 ages 5-8. Cost is $26. Focus to be on holiday celebrations, crafts, cooking and games. Designed to give the younger child the opportunity to spend a night away from home.
- Buy, Sell, Trade (an entrepreneurship camp for 7th graders) January 17-19, 2003 . Cost $50. Participants will establish their own society, print their own money and open and run their own business.
For more information on any of the above events and for registration, contact Southwest 4-H Educational Center, 276-676-6180 (email: chgates@vt.edu)
(Crystal Gates)
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From the Curriculum Specialist
Welcome to the busiest September I have had in years! There is energy flowing from places we never dreamed possible as we move toward finding new resources to keep 4-H alive and well in Virginia. For me, this rests directly in the lap of our curricular process. Thanks to all of you who are juggling to keep programs active.
Private Funding for Publications
One "alive and well" program in Prince William County, is Strong Families, Competent Kids. Highly used throughout the school systems in the county, the curriculum has etched an important niche in school enrichment programming. Knowing that the budget would not be able to support the printing demands of the county, Sharon Race, 4-H Youth Educator in charge of In-school programming, secured funding from Lockheed Martin for the printing of the youth and leader books. Currently, the local extension office is looking for additional funding to print the parent book. As in this example, please know that companies often want to support local educational programming and are often willing to up the ante to include supporting a curriculum for use around the state. It is often just the asking that brings an answer of "yes." The State 4-H Office offers support of your efforts to find local monies for the printing of highly charged, intensely used curriculum. Additionally, we are assertively seeking outside funding for general, miscellaneous publications that represent consistent state use. Please email me with any ideas for contacts or let me know how I can support your efforts.
Curriculum Event, 2002
I deeply regret not being able to hold the annual curriculum event in September. I missed the rich interaction that comes from working toward common goals and each of you who bring talent, texture, and creativity to the process. The theme for this yearıs curricular emphasis is "Keeping the Focus." It is important to zero in on what is important to maintain, enrich, and set aside. The 4-H State Office continues to look critically at budgetary demands with regard to curriculum materials.
I welcome all new curriculum committee chairs, listed below.
Animal Science: Mary Elizabeth Williams (mewilliam)
Careers and Economic Education: Karen Lucas (klucas)
Citizenship: Cynthia Rowles and Lloyd Hicks
Communication and Expressive Arts: Reese McCormick
Family Sciences: Linda Licht (llicht)
Food, Nutrition, and Health: Patsy Pelland (pelland)
Leadership and Personal Development: Donna Hamm (dhamm)
Natural Resources and Environmental Education: Doug Harpole
Plants and Soil Sciences: Ruth Wallace (ruwallac)
Science and Technology: Ron Sanderson (rosander)
Both new and experienced agents are asked to contact curriculum committee chairs with ideas, desire to serve, and needs. The committees are your vehicles to address grassroots issues/needs/ trends and bring recommendations to Ed Design. The Educational Design Team is the policy making body for the curricular process, functioning much like the Leadership Council for the area of curriculum.
Educational Design Team Meeting, June 2002
Actions taken at the June meeting of the Educational Design Team area listed below. Please review and make adjustments as needed at the unit and district levels.
- Betsy Campbell reviewed the work from the past year of the Fashion Review Design Team. It was moved and seconded to accept the changes in 4-H Fashion Review Policy. Approved. The revisions will be placed on the 4-H Intranet site for agents to use this year.
- A motion was made and seconded that volunteers serving as chair or chair elects to curriculum committees will get PIDıs so they will be able to have access to Extension Intranet, i.e. 4-H curriculum. Approved.
- A discussion related to awarding single entry competitors the top place when the presentation did not meet standards, led to the following motion. In order for a 4-Her to be recognized as top place winner in state competition, they must qualify as a blue Ribbon Winner. Judges must break ties to name a top winner if more than one 4-Hıer qualifies with blue award. Approved. Jewel Hairson will meet with the Programs Committee to develop a template for criteria at the various competition levels, white/red/blue.
- Motion: In the areas of public speaking, presentations, fashion review, chick-n-que, turkey-que, and share the fun, the Danish system of judging will be used with the top ribbon winner receiving additional recognition. It is suggested that something other than medals will be used for the top place winner. Approved. The Programs committee, under the leadership of Jewel Hairston, will bring recommendations back to the Educational Design.
- Motion: The Photography Exhibit category be removed from State Competition while retaining the photography presentation category. Photo Presentation guidelines are the same as other presentation guidelines. Approved.
- Motion: The Interactive Competition to be deleted at 4-H Congress. Approved
(Kathleen Jamison)
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4-H Dog Project Record Book
Now posted on the 4H website is the new Virginia 4-H Dog Project Record, Publication #388-130. It is available only from the web. Feel free to print and distribute to 4-H members enrolled in the dog project.
(Kathy Jamison)
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4-H Day at the State Capitol
To assist you with planning 4-H events for the upcoming year, 4-H Day at the State Capitol is scheduled for Monday, February 10, 2003.
(Jewel E. Hairston)
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4-H International Program Promotion Idea
As you conduct 4-H Achievement nights this fall, consider using this opportunity to promote the 4-H International programs that are available to your 4-H families. In addition to opportunities to travel overseas, there are short-term opportunities for hosting 12-14 year-old Japanese students as well as the opportunity to host teenage and young adult IFYE's from around the world. The 4-H International program has numerous videos that can be used to vividly bring the exchange experience to life. The VA 4-H International Program Committee is also willing to help you locate a family or an older 4-H member that has participated in an exchange program to come and make a presentation to your group about their experiences in the program. For more information contact Joe Hunnings at (hunnings@vt.edu) or 540-231-6372.
(Joseph R. Hunnings)
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Shawnda Gregory Shares International Experiences
My time here in Kuhmo has been joyous and fun. My host family has been generous and kind. The Seppänenıs have shown great hospitality and have made me feel at home. My host mom Sisko is a researcher at Friendship Park. Her job consists of researching different kinds of fungi and making maps of mires and swamps on the computer. My host father Urho teaches at the high school in Kuhmo. He teaches computer class and different math classes. Sanna my host sister is in her first year of high school and my host brother Sami is in the army. I have been to two museums and the Kuhmo Art Center. The first museum was about Finlandıs Winter War from 1939 to 1940. Most of the Winter War was right there in Kuhmo. The Tuupala museum is a very historical place. The museum was an old homestead of Kuhmo that is located on the side of Tervatie (Tar Road) which used to be the main road from Kuhmo to Sotkamo. I enjoyed visiting both museums and learning about the history. I have also been mushroom collecting and picking black wine berries, red wine berries, and blueberries. Spending time with my host family at their summer cottage has been fun. My host mom Sisko likes to weave rugs and work in her garden. My host father Urho likes to hunt and fish. I went fishing during my second visit to there summer cottage and fishing this time was a little different from when I went fishing with my second host family. This time we used actual fishing rods. My host dad Urho caught two big fish while host we rode to the marsh in the rowboat. Once at the marsh we caught most of our fish using the fishing rods and worms as bate. Fishing with Urho and Sanna was fun. We ate the fish we caught the next day for breakfast. I have visited my host fatherıs school a few times. I visited his computer class first, then one English teachers class for at least 15 minutes. When I visited the English class I first introduced myself, told where I was from, what I do in 4-H and in my 4-H club, and why I am here in Finland. Then there was a short question and answer session. Then I came to visit two other English classes the next week, one on Monday and the other on Tuesday. I taught both English classes about the Character Counts program, Junior Master Gardening program and told about our 4-H and what we do in my 4-H club. I enjoyed the question and answer sessions and teaching both classes. The teachers really enjoyed having me visit their class and I enjoyed visiting their class.
During my first week with my host family my host mom took me to the 4-H office where I met two 4-H leaders. They invited me to come to their 4-H Leaders meeting Thursday August 15th of that week. The 4-H meeting was held at another 4-H leaders new home. Ms. Tulla first served us snacks. Then her husband gave us a tour of their new home. Ms. Tulla wanted everything about their home to be Karelian, for she grew up in a Karelian home. After the tour we had lunch. Then we continued with our meeting. During the meeting all the leaders gave reports about what they have been doing in their 4-H clubs. When it was my turn to speak I told them about the IFYE program, my 4-H club, what I have done over the years in 4-H, and about the different projects you can do in 4-H. Some of their 4-H projects are similar to ours. After the meeting we were all given a little job to do. Some of us cleared a flower garden and the rest of us picked black wine berries. Then we had tea, coffee, and dessert before going home.
My time here with my third host family has been fun. This past weekend we went to Helsinki to visit with a family friend. We left Kuhmo Friday August 31 in the afternoon and returned early Sunday morning September 1. On Saturday we shopped most of the day and during the evening my host sister Sanna went to a disco party. She was invited to come spend some time with some friends she met in England. This summer Sanna was in England taking english classes. I spent most of the evening playing solitaire and watched a little television before going with my host parents to pick up Sanna. Then we returned and went to bed early so we could get up to leave early for our return back home. This is my last week and I look forward to enjoying my two week vacation. Then I will return to go to my fourth host family. The weather is changing into fall here in Finland and the leaves on the trees are changing. I look forward to having a fantastic fall with my other host families and seeing a little of their winter.
(Shawnda Gregory)
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Virginia Cooperative Extension 4-H/CHARACTER COUNTS! Program Evaluations Yield Positive Results in Elementary Schools
For the past two years, the 4-H/CHARACTER COUNTS! (4-H/CC!) Program, administered by Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCE), has been evaluated in elementary schools participating in the program across Virginia. The results show that the program has been successful in increasing behaviors among students that reflect positive character development.
The Evaluation Process
The evaluation process involved teachers of elementary schools reporting observed classroom behavior before and after implementing the CC! framework on a set of indicators reflective of the six pillars of character development in the program. The pillars and behavioral indicators observed were:
Trustworthiness
- Stand up for beliefs about right and wrong
- Respond in truthful and honest ways
- Do what you say you will do
- Cheating
Respect
- Act polite and courteous
- Use "put downs"
- Use threats, physical force, or anger when settling disputes or disagreements
- Judge others on merit instead of race, gender, or physical/mental conditions
Responsibility
- Help others
- Think before you act
- Set a good example for others to follow
- Blame others for your mistakes
Fairness
- Listen to othersı viewpoints before making decisions
- Treat everyone in the group fairly
- Admit and correct your mistakes
- Play by the rules and use the same rules for others
Caring
- Propose ideas and projects to help others
- Do kind acts for one another
- Act sensitively to the feelings of others
- Show caring to those hard to like
Citizenship
- Cooperate to make your group/class/community better
- Respect the authority of teachers and leaders
- Obey rules and laws
- Protect common property or take care of property you are allowed to use
Evaluation Results
In 2001, surveys were returned from 55 schools representing 7,014 elementary school students. Of the 24 behavioral indicators for the six pillars, statistically significant differences at the .05 level were found from pre to post measurement in all but the following indicators: cheating (trustworthiness), using threats, and judging others (respect). However, differences in pre to post measurements for these indicators were in the appropriate direction. When a composite score was calculated for each of the six pillars, statistically significant differences at the .05 level were found from pre to post measurement for all six pillars.
In 2002, surveys were returned from 27 schools representing 462 classrooms and 7,740 elementary school students. Of the 24 behavioral indicators for the six pillars, statistically significant differences at the .05 level were found from pre to post measurement in all indicators. When a composite score was calculated for each of the six pillars, statistically significant differences at the .05 level were found from pre to post measurement for all pillars except respect (although differences in pre to post measures for this pillar were in the appropriate direction).
Overall, this data indicates that the 4-H/CC! program is making a significant impact in elementary schools in increasing behaviors that reflect positive character development. Further CC! evaluation efforts will include a third round of elementary school evaluations in 2002/03, as well as evaluating outcomes at the middle and high school student level, and outcomes on the school level.
For more information contact:
Dr. Michael Lambur
1-540-231-9423
lamburmt@vt.edu
Mr. Joe Hunnings
540-231-6372
hunnings@vt.edu
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4-H Shooting Education Instructor Certification Weekend
Friday, Saturday and Sunday, October 4, 5 and 6 at Holiday Lake 4-H Center located near Appomattox, Virginia.
The following disciplines will be offered - Archery, Coordinator, Muzzleloading, Pistol, Rifle and Shotgun.
(Jinx Baney)
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Kids in the Creek Day- a model watershed experience
Recently I had the privilege of assisting Extension Agent John Blankenship and the Tazewell Soil and Water Conservation District with their annual Kids in the Creek Day for local 7th Grade (Life Science) students. This is a model program both for collaboration and for meeting the Governor's watershed experience mandate for public schools. Each year Tazewell County Schools send all 7th grade students to a farm where volunteers with the local soil and water conservation district organize 10 stations with the overall theme of water quality and conservation. Local agency personnel conduct activities at the stations. Students receive over six hours of instruction when pre- and post- sessions are included, making this a quality 4-H special interest project. A description follows.
Description of Stations
- Fish Station- Local Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries personnel use their fish shocking equipment to show kids how they survey fish populations and what types of fish are in the creek.
- Bugs/Benthics- Save-our-Streams volunteers take kids into the creek to sample creek bottoms for macro-invertebrates, and to see how this technique is used to indicate water quality.
- Water Quality- Soil and Water Conservation District volunteers measure pH, dissolved oxygen and other physical properties of water.
- Game and wildlife- Extension Agent shows his collection of skins, skulls, tracks and calls; and discusses the need of all wildlife for clean water.
- Soils- A Va. Tech student takes kids into a soil pit dug on the property to discuss the soil profile and subsurface flow and storage of water.
- Watershed Education- local volunteers lead kids in an enviroscape activity and see examples of mussel diversity in the Clinch Watershed.
- Fun with Fishing- Va. Tech student shows kids the different types of fishing rods, basics of fish identification, and lets kids practice target casting skills.
- Forestry- local Va. Department of Forestry forester shows kids how to identify tree species common in riparian areas, and how leaves from trees are an important part of the aquatic food web and environment.
- Reflection in Art- local schoolteacher has kids draw from their recent knowledge of nature, incorporating fish rubbings from Fishing Fanatics curriculum.
- Prepare for the Water- Kids attend this class before going into the water for the Fish/Bugs/Water activities. Everyone gets a pair of chest waders to wear, and everyone discusses water safety and etiquette.
Partial List of Donors:
- Wall-Mart- provides 20% discount on all awards; donated fishing rods for target casting; can also provide "Great American Fishing Days" kits.
- Sub-Way- provides sub sandwiches, chips and cookies for all volunteers.
- Funeral home- provided tents for each station.
- Local churches, community centers, Fire Department- tables and chairs for each station.
- Local Farmer- provides streamside location for the event.
For more information, contact:
John Blankenship, Tazewell County Extension, 276-988-0405
Elizabeth Bennett, Tazewell Soil and Water Conservation District, 276-988-9588.
(Jeff Kirwan)
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Annual BeeKeeping Essay Contest
The Foundation for The Preservation of Honey Bees, Inc. is once again conducting its annual 4-H Beekeeping Essay Contest. The contest is open to active 4-H members who have not previously placed at the national level. Essays should be on the theme, "Beekeeping in Colonial Times" and should be 750 1000 words in length.
Essays are due to the Plant Soil & Entomology Committee (address below) by February 10th. One state winner will be selected and his/her essay sent on to the national competition. National winners receive cash prizes.
For a complete copy of the rules and judging criteria contact the following person:
Ruth Wallace, PSE Committee Chair
Buckingham Extension Office
PO Box 227
Buckingham, VA 23921
(434) 969-4261 or emil ruwallac@vt.edu
(Ruth Wallace)
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Financial Support for the In-school Electric Energy Curriculum
Lori Marsh, Extension Specialist, Biological Systems Engineering, is pleased to announce that she has secured $25,000 from the Virginia Electric Energy Council in support of the 4-H In-school Electric Curriculum. The money is intended to purchase electric kits to be placed in 4th-grade classrooms. Since the kits cost $250 each, this will allow the purchase of 100 units.
Lori is seeking your support to make this program a success. If you are interested in conducting a workshop in your unit, contact Lori to discuss possibilities. Basically, you will be responsible for identifying the workshop participants and arranging for a location for the training. Lori will present the training, cover her travel costs and provide SOME of the electric kits. Historically, schools have been encouraged to send all of their 4th grade teachers to the workshop and kits have been distributed one per school. So that schools will value this program, it is desirable to get the school system to cost-share on the kits. Ideally, schools will contribute $100/kit received. Units proposing programs in which the participants will cost-share on the kits will receive first priority for the programming. However, based upon demand, there may be instances where the 100% of the program cost will be covered.
For more information, contact Lori at 540-231-6815 or marshes@vt.edu
(Lori Marsh)
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YOUTH GOLF TOURNAMENT
The Virginia 4-H Foundation will host our 7th 4-H for Youth Golf Tournament on October 2nd, 2002 at Richmond's newest golf course, Providence Golf Course, in Chesterfield County. Our previous tournaments have been a great success, touching the lives of many friends of 4-H and raising much-needed funds!. (Applications can be found at the following website http://www.ext.vt.edu/resources/4h/golfoct02.pdf
We necessitate support from all our Extension Staff. If you know of committee members, ELC members or County Supervisors, etc. that enjoy golfing, invite them to register for our tournament and come out and have fun while supporting our 4-H Youth. If they are not golfers, ask if they would be willing to make a gift donation for prizes. Monies being raised will be used to support mini-grants, State and National 4-H Congress scholarships for all our youth throughout the Commonwealth of VA. Please help market our Tournament. This is a super opportunity to market your program(s) and to "mingle" with folks from our communities (board members) in a casual atmosphere. If you are available to volunteer your time please let me know.
Directions to the Tournament are:
- Take the US-60 W/MIDLOTHIAN TNPK exit towards MIDLOTHIAN.
- Stay straight to go onto MIDLOTHIAN TURNPIKE/US-60 W.
- Turn LEFT onto 1160 SO. PROVIDENCE RD.
(Cindy Barnett)
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Kids Count Data
Kids Count has compiled indicators of child well-being from the 2000 US Census and created an interactive online database that uses a simple, yet powerful, interface to help you quickly and easily create, view, and print reports.
Extensive data are available on:
- Income and Poverty (NEW!)
- Parental Employment (NEW!)
- Education (NEW!
- Language (NEW!)
- Disability (NEW!)
- Neighborhood Characteristics (NEW!)
- Age and Sex
- Race
- Hispanic Origin Status
- Living Arrangements
Reports may be generated for the following geographic regions:
- United States
- Individual states
- Largest US cities
- Counties
- American Indian/Alaska Native/Hawaiian Home Lands (NEW!)
- Consolidated Metropolitan Statistical Areas
- Metropolitan Statistical Areas
- Primary Metropolitan Statistical Areas (NEW!)
- Congressional Districts (for the 106th congress)
- New England Towns
The updates will continue over the next several weeks as the Census Bureau makes data available for all states. Visit Kids Count Census Data Online today at www.aecf.org/kidscount/census.
(Angela J. Huebner)
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4-H'ERS IN THE NEWS
Local Shooters Propel Virginiaıs 4-H Team To National Title
At the recent 2002 National Invitational 4-H Tournament held at the NRA Whittington Center in Raton, New Mexico, the Virginia 4-H Shotgun Team won its first national title. The team, made up of the top shooters from within the state 4-H program consisted of Jason Barham, team captain from Powhatan, Jordan Saba from Powhatan, Bradon Martin from Nottoway and Brandon Oyer from Charles City. This team was no stranger to the tournament as they were runner-up in last yearıs tournament. John Yakshe of New Kent and Frankie Barham of Powhatan coached the team, while Ed Pulley of Powhatan assisted.
The tournament is a three-day event consisting of shooting trap on day one, followed by skeet on day two, and sporting clays on the last day. Virginiaıs team set a precedent on the first day by each team member hitting 98 out of 100 shots, thereby taking first place in trap. On the second day of the event Virginia tied for third place in skeet. On the final day, with only a five bird lead over Texas and Pennsylvania, the team won the sporting clays event with a high score that wrapped up first place for Virginia over last years champion, Texas.
On an individual basis, Jason Barham and Jordan Saba represented Powhatan well at the national event. Saba took fifth place in trap and came in (8th) place in the High Overall Score (HOA). Barham took (6th) in trap, (2nd) in skeet and (2nd) in sporting clays and finished in a tie for High Over All. In a 30-bird shoot-off, Jason won runner-up to Brazos Lakey of Texas, who is currently a member of the US Olympic Shooting Team. Following the competition in New Mexico, Virginiaıs team went to San Antonio, Texas to compete in the first annual National Scholastic Clay Target Program sponsored by the National Shooting Sports Foundation. The tournament consisted of Skeet and Sporting Clays held at the National Shooting Complex of the NSSA and NSCA. It was a two-day, 200-target event that saw 25 teams vying for first place. Virginiaıs team placed third in each event and Barham tied for 1st place in skeet with a score of 198 out of 200 possible shots. As a result of Jason and Jordanıs performance at this national competition, both are being looked at to go to the Olympic Training Development Camp in Colorado Springs in September 2002. The team had the honor of meeting and shooting with Kim Rhode, Olympic Gold and Bronze Medal winner in the Doubles Trap shooting event at the 1996 and 2000 Olympics. Rhode also held a clinic, allowing participants to receive one-on-one help and glean useful shooting tips from her.
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