Dear co-workers:
Now that the New Year is upon us, and hopefully all of you had quality time away from work and busy schedules during the holidays, it is time to focus on the many opportunities and possibilities that the new year affords. We had a very successful 4-H year, even though we experienced a difficult time with the state's budget woes leading to the loss of so many of our experienced colleagues. It is good to reflect on the many positives that occurred during the 2002 year. The following is a short list of what may be labeled as the top 12 Virginia Accomplishments:
- We celebrated the 100th year of 4-H throughout the nation in 2002. Featured stories, displays, and promotions about this celebration were conducted throughout the state including the two land-grant university campuses, the Virginia State Fair, and individual county and 4-H center facilities.
- We conducted the 4th statewide 4-H/CHARACTER COUNTS! Train-the-Trainer event in Richmond, and a statewide CHARACTER COUNTS! Conference with Michael Josephson as our featured speaker. He was recognized on the floor of the Virginia Senate for his outstanding leadership in bringing appropriate character training into the forefront of our state and nation.
- We conducted the State Conversation on Youth for 4-H and other youth serving agencies and groups. Input from this event will help shape the 4-H program for the future. We also sent a delegation of Virginia youth to attend and participate in the National Youth Conversation.
- The Virginia 4-H Foundation conducted its first 4-H Gala, in which over $34,000 was raised for the Virginia 4-H program. The Foundation met its fundraising goals for the year and completely paid for the awards banquet at this year's State 4-H Congress, provided over 30 mini-grants to local 4-H programs, and other needed scholarships and awards.
- State 4-H Congress involved 854 participants, the highest number in many years.
- We conducted a very successful 4-H camping season again in which some 26,000+ participants benefited from the experience.
- We hosted the National Association of Extension 4-H Agents Conference in Norfolk (October 27-31) with over 1200 participants from all 50 states and Puerto Rico. Even though so many of our experienced had to take early retirement in order to prevent layoffs, every single retired 4-H agent who had major leadership responsibility for the Conference carried out his/her duties with outstanding professionalism, dedication, and hard work. Additionally, numerous agents and volunteers assisted with this Conference. On a scale of 1-10 (with 1 being the lowest; 10 being highest), we performed at an '11' level.
- Virginia's 4-H enrollment experienced another growth in numbers over the previous year, increasing from 181,070 to 207,298. This is a 14.5% increase over the previous year.
- Working for the previous 3-4 years with members of the Virginia General Assembly, successfully brought about changing Virginia's Tax Return Forms to allow citizens to donate a portion or all their tax returns to Virginia's 4-H Educational Centers. The money will be equally divided among the six 4-H educational centers.
- A total of 21 counties/cities put up entire funding dollars to employ agents on a restricted base for the year. The 4-H program will greatly benefit from this appropriation, if passed, with 10 of these positions being filled by the employment of a 4-H agent.
- Most of the newly retired 4-H agents continued in voluntary roles to assist the ongoing 4-H program in respective units including going to 4-H camp, working with 4-H volunteers, and spending time in the Extension office to answer questions and help with 4-H programming events.
- A new master's level course at Virginia Tech was developed and delivered by state 4-H faculty on Youth Development and Youth Program Management.
Even though we are experiencing difficult times, keep in mind that thousands of boys and girls throughout our state need our attention and programming. The new year provides us with fresh opportunities to work with volunteers to organize new clubs, maintain existing clubs, recruit new youth in our program, and involved both youth and adults working with those youth in 4-H programming. The Virginia 4-H program will continue to be strong and meet its mission by folks working together and being committed to going about what we are all about. It is time to renew our pledge and commitment to accomplishing the 4-H mission this year. Take time to review the mission and make a commitment to do all you can to help youth become successful. Best wishes for the New Year.
(Bob Meadows)
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Virginia 4-H: What We Are All About
Sometimes, in our zeal to become better and produce quality results, we lose sight of what we are all about. The Virginia 4-H program The Virginia 4-H program has been a powerful force in the lives of thousands of youth and adults working with those youth for nearly 100 years. Indeed, the 4-H program is a world leader in youth development. Our focus is on developing blue ribbon youth; not blue ribbon projects. Curriculum is important, but is not what 4-H is all about. Curriculum is essential in developing youth through adolescence and successful adulthood. Virginia's emphasis is on positive youth development. The nine features of Positive Youth Development Settings include:
- Positive relationships with caring adults, good emotional and moral support;
- Feeling emotionally and physically safe;
- Structure and limits that are developmentally appropriate and that recognize adolescents' increasing social maturity and expertise;
- Feeling a sense of belonging, an inclusive environment;
- Exposure to positive morals, values, and positive social norms;
- Opportunities for skill building and mastery; including learning how to form close, durable human relations with peers that support and reinforce healthy behaviors, as well as to acquire the life skills necessary for school success and successful transition into adulthood;
- Opportunities to value and practice service to others, to do things that make a real difference and to play an active role in the organization(s) themselves;
- Opportunities for self-determination, and engagement in learning; and,
- Opportunities to see oneself as an active participant in the future.
In order for the Virginia 4-H program to continue to accomplish its mission---to develop youth and adults working with those youth to realize their full potential---becoming effective, contributing citizens through participation in research-based, informal, hands-on educational experiences---strong leadership and clear expectations of staff are musts. We need everyone, volunteers, agents, 4-H program assistants, and specialists, to keep in mind the purpose and mission of youth, and adults working with those youth.
(Bob Meadows)
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Virginia 4-H Volunteer Leaders
2003 SPRING CONFERENCE
"4-H in the New Millenium"
March 29-30, 2003
Holiday Inn, I-81, Exit 7, Bristol, VA
Registration forms will be out early Feb . Check the volunteer website for all the information. http://www.ext.vt.edu/resources/4h/volunteers.html#meet
(Donna Hamm)
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Southern Region 4-H Leader Forum Rock Eagle 4-H Center
Request For Workshop Proposals
October 2-5, 2003
Proposals must be submitted in hard copy. These proposals will be evaluated by committee members in Virginia, 2003 co-chair of the Southern Region Leaders Forum Planning Committee, for screening and selection. Limit responses to spaced provided. Workshop Proposal form may be found at http://www.ext.vt.edu/resources/4h/volunteers.html#meet
(Bob Meadows)
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Registration Information for the 2003 Master 4-H Training Available on the VCE Intranet
The State 4-H Office will be offering Master 4-H Training the week of March 4-7, 2003. Up to 22 hours of training will be provided in four areas:
- Youth Development
- 4-H Camp Director
- Volunteer Development
- Project Learning Tree Facilitator
The cost is $136 and scholarships are available. To download registration forms and for a detailed description of each tract.
If you have questions about this event, contact Barry Garst at bgarst@vt.edu or (540) 231-6373.
(Barry Garst)
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4-H In-school Electric Program
Dr. Lori Marsh, Extension Engineer, Biological Systems Engineering
Department, has a grant from the electric utility companies in Virginia to support the 4-H In-school Electric Program. This represents a great opportunity for you to offer a program to the schools in your unit. This opportunity is being extended first to new 4-H Agents around the state. The curriculum was written to cover all 4th grade science SOLs related to electricity and magnetism. Lori will come to your unit and conduct a
training workshop for 4th grade teachers. Participating schools will receive the 4-H In-school Electric curriculum and an "electric kit" with all the materials needed to conduct the lessons with a class of 25 youth. The kits are valued at $225.( Note: schools are encouraged to send all of their 4th grade teachers, but will only be given ONE kit per school, not one kit per teacher. For large schools with four or more 4th grade classrooms, the school may purchase an additional kit(s) for $50/each.) The workshop requires four hours.
Your responsibility is to identify the participants and the location for
the workshop. Lori will conduct the workshop and provide the kits. Of course, you must work with Lori to identify a date that is acceptable.
For more information, contact Lori directly at marshes@vt.edu or by phone
at 540 231-6815.
(Barry Garst/Kathleen Jamison)
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REMINDER: Tax Check-Off Option to Assist 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 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.
Please consider this opportunity to support 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. For more information, contact Barry Garst at bgarst@vt.edu or (540) 231-6373.
(Barry Garst )
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Family Camp--Holiday Lake 4-H Center
June 9-13, 2003
Family camp, an annual event at Holiday Lake 4-H Educational Center in Appomattox, Virginia,. Family camp offers the chance for family members to bond with each other while at the same time experiencing their own level of independence in a safe environment. Participants (youth and adults) take three classes a day, one of which is specifically designated as a family activity. Classes offered include swimming, theatre arts, nature, canoeing, forestry, archery, and more. Afternoons and evenings are filled with special activities such as hikes, canoe trips, and campfires.
Family camp offers a variety of activities for all ages. Lodging is separated by family, with one family in each rustic cabin or bunkhouse room. Space is limited to 25 families. Registration is now underway and will continue until March 28. To receive registration information, please call your local Extension Office or contact Jennifer Bowen, Camp Co-Director, at (434) 392-4246 or Bryan Branch at Holiday Lake 4-H Center at (434) 248-5444.
Family Camp, like all Virginia Cooperative Extension programs, is offered to all regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, veteran status, national origin, disability, or political affiliation. If you are a person with a disability and require assistance to participate in this activity, please call (434)392-4246 between the hours of 8:30a.m and 5:00p.m Monday through Friday by the registration deadline.
(Bryan Branch)
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Adult Offerings at Northern Virginia 4-H Center
The Northern Virginia 4-H Educational Center in Front Royal, Virginia, is proud to offer the following Adult Music Programs for ages 20+ years with Niles Hokkanen and Don Kawalek during the Winter and Spring of 2003:
- Beginner Women's Mandocrucian Boot Camp with Niles Hokkanen
February 16-19, 2003
Cost: $375.00 includes all meals, lodging, instruction, and materials.
- Mandolin Making Workshop with Don Kawalek
March 23-26, 2003
Cost: $500.00 includes all meals, lodging, instruction, and materials.
- Intermediate Mandocrucian Boot Camp with Niles Hokkanen
March 23-26, 2003
Cost: $375.00 includes all meals, lodging, instruction, and materials.
- Musical Improvisation Camp For All Acoustic Instruments with Niles Hokkanen
April 27-30, 2003
Cost: $375.00 includes all meals, lodging, instruction, and materials.
- Hammered Dulcimer Making Workshop with Don Kawalek
May 4-7, 2003
Cost: $500.00 includes all meals, lodging, instruction, and materials.
For any of the programs listed, you may send a $100.00 deposit to secure a spot in the workshop. Please see the website for Early-Bird discounts!
The 4-H Center is only one hour west of Washington, D.C. and near the entrance to Shenandoah National Park. For full program details, more information on the 4-H Center, and a Registration Form, please visit the 4-H Center website at www.ext.vt.edu/resources/4h/northern or email Lance Johnson at lajohns4@vt.edu or call at 540.635.7171.
(Lance Johnson)
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Updated Dates at Southwest Virginia 4-H Educational Center.
- Feb 21-23 Mini-Society Camp - An Entrepreneurship Camp for Seventh Graders
- April 25-26 Spring Cloverbud Camp
- May 10 Southwest Camp Volunteer Leaders Training
- Aug 15-16 Summer Cloverbud Camp
- Aug 22-24 Southwest District All-Stars Teen Weekend
- Nov 14-15 Teen Leadership Camp
- Nov 21-22 Winter Cloverbud Camp
(Chrystle M. Gates)
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Virginia Poultry Federation
Youth Convention
- The VPF Youth Convention will be held in Harrisonburg, VA at the Rockingham County Fairgrounds on Thursday, April 24, 2003. This event will be the state poultry-judging contest for 4-H and FFA. Details and entry information will be mailed to 4-H agents, teachers, coaches, and past year's participants. Poultry judging training sessions will be scheduled for February and March around the state in order to prepare 4-H members for poultry judging contests this year. The training events are required if you will be a new participant in the State Poultry Judging event in April, but past participants are also welcome and encouraged to participate to prepare for the event. Contact your local 4-H office, Curtis Novak at Virginia Tech (540-231-5087), or Bruce Morris (540-231-9160) about times and locations of these events.
- In order to qualify for Nationals this year, we will also have a 4-team training/run off during the summer. The 4 teams will consist of the top four teams from the Poultry Judging contest in Harrisonburg as has been done in the past. The top team from the run off will be eligible for Nationals (Louisville) and the 2nd place team will be eligible for Southern Regional Poultry Judging contest held in Georgia.
- Pre-registration for the VPF Youth Convention will be due no later than March 24, 2003. Remember that late entries will not be accepted due to the preparation involved for the event. All contest information will be on the web. See the 4-H poultry web site for this information:
http://www.apsc.vt.edu/Faculty/Novak/4H/4hpoultry/Poultry_Events.htm
(Curtis Novak - Poultry Extension Specialist)
(Bruce Morris - Extension Volunteer/Staff )
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2002 State 4H Horse Events
| Date | Event | Location | Contact |
| February 15 |
B& B Club Horse Judging Clinic |
Va Tech |
|
| February 22 |
Regional Hippology Contest |
Dinwiddie High School |
Patsy Barnes
804-469-4514
http://www.ext.vt.edu/resources/4h/infoletter/02dec.html |
| March 22 |
B& B Horse Judging Contest |
Va Tech |
|
| May 3 |
State 4H Horse Judging Contest |
Rockingham County Fairgrounds, Harrisonburg |
|
| June 17-20 |
State 4H Congress |
Va Tech |
4H Department |
| July 29- August 3 |
Southern Regional Championships |
Georgia National Fairgrounds, Perry, GA |
http://www.gnfa.com/ |
| September 12-14 |
State 4H Horse Show |
Horse Center, Lexington |
|
| November |
Eastern National Horse Roundup |
Louisville, KY |
http://www.4hhorsecontests.org/index.htm |
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Block & Bridle Club Hosts Livestock Contests
March 14 & 15
Plans are well under way for the Livestock Judging, Meats Judging, and Stockmens Contests hosted by the Virginia Tech Block & Bridle Club. These contests will be held on March 14 and 15 at Virginia Tech. All information has been posted on the 4H livestock website. Go to http://www.ext.vt.edu/resources/4h/livestock/index.html. Select the Block & Bridle heading to access the details.
Entry deadline is February 28. Several motels in the area have blocked rooms for the event, but reservations must be made by February 28 in most cases.
(Mark Wahlberg)
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Beef Expo -- April 18 & 19
The 2003 Virginia Beef Expo will again be held at the Rockingham County Fairgrounds in Harrisonburg, this year on April 18 & 19. This event will include sales of a number of breeds of cattle, an extensive trade show of products and services for the beef industry, and shows and contests for 4H and FFA members. Details can be found at 2 websites. The 4H Livestock website http://www.ext.vt.edu/resources/4h/livestock/index.html contains information about the Beef Expo youth programs. In addition, the Virginia Cattlemens Association has a web site dedicated to the Beef Expo. You can access this at http://www.vacattlemen.org/events.html.
(Mark Wahlberg)
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Virginia Council of Farmer Cooperatives Weekend
The Virginia Council of Farmer Cooperatives sponsors a hands on learning weekend at Graves Mountain Lodge each year. This year's event is March 14-16, 2003. It is open to the first 64 youth between ages of 16-19. Scholarships for the weekend are available from local cooperatives.
This event is a great opportunity for teens to learn more about cooperatives, visit a beautiful part of Virginia and meet many other energetic teens from across the state. The event is open to 4-H and FFA youth. Please contact some of your teens that may be interested in this event and encourage them to participate in this years weekend!
If you would like more information than what is in the attachment, feel free to call me bjelmer@vt.edu, or Hugh Harris for more information.
(Billie Jean Elmer)
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4-H Day at the State Capitol Monday, February 10, 2003.
To assist you in preparing for that day, a schedule of planned events was attached in the December 4-H Information letter or it can be found online at http://www.ext.vt.edu/resources/4h/infoletter/4hdayatthecaptiol.pdf The schedule is available only to assist you in planning your day. It is not something that you must adhere to. You may want to plan ahead by setting appointments to meet with local legislators who will be in Richmond on that day. Additionally, you may want to obtain feedback from your 4-H group regarding tours in Richmond that may be of interest to them. If you have questions, feel free to contact me at the number or e-mail address below. I look forward to seeing you on February 10th!
Note: The Governor's Mansion is closed on Mondays
(Jewel E. Hairston)
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Shamrock Delivery
During 4-H Day at the State Capitol, we are planning to have shamrocks available in the General Assembly building for you to deliver to your local legislators. You will be able to pick-up and deliver shamrocks between 10:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. A designated room to pick-up shamrocks will be announced as soon as we are provided with that information. We strongly encourage you to deliver a shamrock to your legislator. It will be no cost to you, and it provides great visibility for 4-H!
(Jewel E. Hairston,)
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Shekeryak Selected for Civic Education Workshop
Lyuba Shekeryak, Virginia 4-H's FLEX exchange student in Loudoun County, was one of 110 FLEX students selected for the 2003 FSA/FLEX Civic Education Workshop. Lyuba was one of nearly 880 applicants for the all-expense-paid program, which will be held in Washington, DC February 23-March 1, 2003. A copy of the essay that was part of her application is attached to this newsletter.
Lyuba Shekeryak's Essay for
Civic Education Workshop Entry
In August, I made a trip of four thousand mile, the beginning of a journey of a lifetime. I have come to the United States of America to learn more about its culture, way of life, government, democracy, and share my native country's culture. My task is to promote understanding and friendship between the U.S.A and Ukraine in the future.
Even now I remember clearly those endless hours on the plane when I had more than enough time to think about the U.S., and wonder what it would be like. Back in Ukraine I heard many different stories about America and Americans. When I arrived, I discovered that not all of them were true. Sometimes it's really difficult to understand a different culture, to appreciate a way of life that is much different from the one to which you have become accustomed. I think, this contributes greatly to some misunderstandings that still exist. But it's one of our tasks to solve this problem.
But to do this, to help to establish real democracy in Ukraine, it's necessary to understand what makes all the freedoms exercised in real life, but not just recorded on paper. I know that everybody can name immediately at least a dozen reasons. But, I think, there is one major reason that causes everything. It is very simple. It is the first issue that teachers point out for us in order to achieve good results, it is the first thing we talked about during the orientation before coming to the U.S.A. Attitude. Attitude to events changes, life, ourselves. Only people, nation has real power. The power that authoritative figures have is permanent, has to depend upon people's interests and needs. Misusing power by authorities is a result of people's indifference. The worst that can happen to the nation is indifference, waiting for somebody to come and give better life. Such situation is in Ukraine now. People don't care about anything, but just complain and don't understand that they are the ones who have to change the situation.
There was an interesting example of people's attitude that I experienced. Last spring we had the elections to the parliament. There was a candidate who proved to be a patriot of his country, to care about the people, to work hard for country's well being. He gained the majority of votes. On the meeting that was held after the elections there were thousands of people. You could see inspiration on their faces. They believed in the future. But they thought that one man could change everything immediately himself. So, after a few months they just became disappointed. They just didn't realize that without their support and participation nothing could be done. People don't realize their importance.
As far as I could see, in the U.S everything is different. People know about their power. Government and Parliament serves to the people, but not the opposite. How was it achieved? How is it maintained? How to create a government that will take care of people? How are freedoms guaranteed? What is the cooperation between the ordinary people and the authority? What practices are used to support democratic system? These are some of the questions, the answers to which, I am sure, will help to establish real democracy in Ukraine.
(Tom Baker)
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Host Families Needed
Host families are now being recruited for the 2003-2004 4-H High School Exchange. We expect to be assigned two students from Japan and four students from the 4-H FLEX Exchange, which includes the Eurasian countries of Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Ukraine and Uzbekistan.
Host families come in many forms. Some actually resemble your family! They may live in a city, a small town, or on a farm. They may have high school-age children and/or younger children, or even no children at all. Exchange students arrive in late July or early- to mid-August and live with their host families for 10 to 11 months. They usually attend public high school. They may have their own room or share a room with a host brother or sister. All 4-H exchange students speak English, are above average in school and have their own spending money. Most have been involved in a number of extra-curricular activities and continue to do so while in the U.S.
Families may apply to host by completing the 4-H Host Family Application/Information Form. Two references will be checked and a local 4-H professional and/or Virginia 4-H International Programs Committee volunteer will interview the prospective host family in their home. Early applications are encouraged so that we may get "first choice" of the inbound students to make the best possible match with host siblings.
If there is room in your home and your heart for one more teen, contact your local 4-H Office, Joe Hunnings at the State 4-H Office, or Tom Baker, 4-H High School Exchange Coordinator, at 757-721-0558 or 4-h.exchange@cox.net. The hosting experience will last a year; the memories and friendships will last a lifetime.
(Tom Baker)
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4-H / Japanese Exchange -- A World Class Opportunity
Virginia 4-H members have available to them an opportunity to participate first-hand in a Global Society. The 4-H / Japanese component of 4-H International Programs offers HOSTING OF JAPANESE YOUTH as well as TRAVEL TO JAPAN FOR ONE MONTH OR MORE.
Some Japanese youth spending the month, mid-July to Mid-August, 2002, had the following comments regarding their experience and what they enjoyed most:
- "Camping on Virginia Beach with my host family was fun!" (Kanako Miwa, Formo Family, Amherst County)
- "4-H camp, horseback riding and going to Bush Gardens with my host family." (Yuiko Tsugawa, Sowers Family, Shenandoah County)
- "Every family member told me they loved me!" (Yukiko Koshi, Woods Family, Spotsylvania County)
These statements were recently shared with Judy Ann Fray, State Coordinator of the Exchange, and are examples of the appreciation held by the Japanese students for all their host families did for them last summer. (We will try to share more quotes in future Newsletters.)
YOUR FAMILY or someone that you know can become a HOST FAMILY for this summer's 4-H / Japanese EXCHANGE, approximately July 21 - August 23. Contact Judy Ann TODAY to request your application form: 1-888-259-4272, pin # 7916 or jfray@ns.gemlink.com.
Those wishing to TRAVEL TO JAPAN THIS SUMMER may apply to go for the month-long homestay, July 9 -- August 7, for a cost of $2,600. Those wishing to participate in the NIHONGO LANGUAGE PROGRAM of BASIC JAPANESE will depart the US on June 13, and the TOTAL COST of this program PLUS the month-long homestay is $3,350. Applications are due to Judy Ann by FEBRUARY 15. CONTACT HER RIGHT AWAY IF YOU WISH TO TRAVEL AND HAVE NOT RECEIVED AN APPLICATION. 4-H members who have hosted and desire to travel will qualify for scholarship credit based on the number of Japanese students hosted, and the duration of that experience.
The State Coordinator looks forward to hearing from many of you during the next few days.
(Judy Ann Fray )
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4-H Welcomes Exchange Students
Four students, representing three countries, are attending Virginia high schools this year through the 4-H High School Echange program. All are doing well and are enjoying their year in the U.S.
Noriko Kanda, from Tokyo, Japan, attends Fort Defiance High School in Augusta County. Noriko is a Labo member and is being hosted by the Jay and Fran Johnson family of Weyers Cave. The Johnsons had previously hosted Noriko during the 1998 4-H Japanese Exchange summer homestay program. In Japan, Noriko has one older sister. In Virginia she has three younger sisters plus two younger brothers. Two more boys, who the Johnsons are in the process of adopting from Haiti, will join the family soon!
The Joe and Dianne Rice family of Haymarket (Prince William County) is hosting Dmitriy Lemayev, from Kyzylorda, Kazakhstan. "Dima" attends Stonewall Jackson High School. Dima is an only child who is also getting used to a large U.S. family. The Rice household includes three girls plus two stepchildren on the weekends. The Rices have previously hosted through the IFYE program and the 4-H Japanese summer exchange. Mom works full time and is a 4-H Leader while she "rests."
Lyubov Shekeryak hails from the town of Selo Krasnoillya, Ukraine. "Lyuba" attends the brand-new Heritage High School in Leesburg and is being hosted by the David and Susan Taylor family. Lyuba, who has a twin sister back home in Ukraine, has three host siblings: Amy, a high school sophomore and two sisters who are in college. Lyuba has the distinction of being hosted by a former exchange student. David Taylor, her host father, was an exchange student from England before moving to the U.S. permanently several years later.
Yuzuru Yasui, from the big city of Kanagawa, Japan, is spending his American year in the tiny Shenandoah County town of Toms Brook. A Lex member, he joins a long list of 4-H Exchange students that have attended Strasburg High School. Yuzuru is hosted by the Jim and Dawn Johnson family, which includes host brother Lee and host sister Jessica. The family previously hosted through the 4-H Japanese Exchange summer homestay program. Yuzuru took up the baritone sax so he could join the Strasburg High Band.
Our 4-H Exchange students are all prepared to make presentations about their home countries and their exchange experience. Four-H leaders who wish to invite one them to speak at club meetings or other 4-H events should contact the 4-H professional in the counties listed above or Tom Baker, 4-H High School Exchange Coordinator, at 757-721-0558 or 4-h.exchange@cox.net.
(Tom Baker)
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GPS 4-H Adventure Workshop for Adults and Older Teens
Holiday Lake 4-H Center
February 7-8, 2003
For more information, contact: Mike Clifford, Senior Extension Agent Emeritus, c/o Nottoway Extension Office, Nottoway, VA 23955 Phone: 434.645.9315 (office) 804.561.5411 (home) Fax: 434.645.9731 E-mail: mjc4h@vt.edu
(Mike Clifford)
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LIFESMARTS CHAMPIONSHIP
Announcing the qualifying rounds 2003's 8th Annual State Championship
It's free and it's fun! www.lifesmarts.org
Participate online from Fall 2002 to February 28, 2003!
LifeSmarts is a national event, styled as a college-bowl type competition testing consumer and financial management knowledge for high school students. Virginia students who score best online will be invited to participate in the face-to-face statewide competition March 21st at Virginia Commonwealth University. The winning team will travel to national competition.
Students learn to make better decisions about:
- technology
- personal finance
- health and safety
- the environment
- consumer rights and responsibilities
Previous state championship winners:
2002Washington County 4-H
2001 Washington County 4-H
2000 Clover Hill High School
1999 Fairfax 4-H
1998 Henrico 4-H
1997 Northumberland County
1996 New Kent High School 4-H
Your students could be the next winners! Ready to check out LifeSmarts? Register by simply visiting www.lifesmarts.org and clicking on "Play the Game".
Sponsored by: Virginia LifeSmarts Coalition; members represent the Virginia Cooperative Extension, the Virginia Council on Economic Education, the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, the Virginia Office of the Attorney General, the State Corporation Commission and Virginia Credit Union.
For more information, contact: Leah Tesney, Program Manager
Virginia Council on Economic Education at 804/828-1627
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"Good Luck Gala"
Our "Good Luck Gala" will be held Saturday, March 1, 6:30 pm at the Country Club of Virginia, in Richmond. Last year we raised over $37,000, thanks to our wonderful sponsors and participants.
Our auction packages this year include a week-end stay at Graves Mt. Lodge, a week at a Villa near Venice, Italy, recreation passes for Wintergreen, one week at a cottage in Nags Head and fishing and hunting packages.
We are seeking corporate and individual sponsorships. Table sponsorship is $1,500 (ten guests) with a tax write-off of $650. Individual tickets are $150 (tax break of $65 each ticket). You can also gather all your family or friends and purchase a table together, join in the fun and donate to a good cause.
If you would like to join us on March 1st please email your name and address to Alma deLeon at almady@vt.edu and we will see to it that you receive your personal invitation.
(Cindy Barnett)
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4-H Foundation 4-H Wish List
2003 is a special year for 4-H because it is the beginning of our next 100 years!! For 100 years 4-H has been there for our youth, and we want to be there for the next 100.
For 4-H to continue and meet the needs of over 203,000 presently enrolled 4-H'ers, 4-H needs flexible resources to invest in these youths. Your gift will be an important resource for our young people and their volunteer leaders as they work together to design and implement skill-expanding, confidence-building activities.
Here is our wish list.and an opportunity for you to help.
Wish List - Word
(Cindy Barnett)
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Director's Letter
Calendar of Events