We are not in the business of going around saying, "Do you appreciate what I am doing for you?" Nor should we be. Our work's focus is on helping youth and adults working with those youth to realize their full potential--becoming effective, contributing citizens through participation in research-based, non-formal, hands-on educational experiences. This is the mission of the Virginia 4-H program. When we do receive a note, a verbal 'thank you,' or a smile from a young person, it warms our hearts to know that we are making a difference in that person's life. When we receive a written letter of thanks, especially from a previous 4-H'er who is doing well in adult life, it makes us realize just how important our work is. I share with you a letter I received recently from a previous 4-H member in the hope that it might inspire you to keep on keeping on. I do remember well this 4-H'er who stated to me that he wants to be Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia someday. Perhaps he will be:
"Dear Bob: You probably don't remember me. My name is Chip Autry and I was active with 4-H from about 1989-1999 out of Campbell county. I attended summer camp at Holiday Lake, was a central district ambassador from 1996-1997, and was the high ropes instructor at Holiday Lake back in 1999. Anyways through my years of 4-H, especially my year as an ambassador I ran into you quite a few times. I just wanted to thank you for all the time you put in to help me and countless other 4-Hers. I went on to join the army and am currently a Second Lieutenant in the infantry serving in Iraq for a year. I wanted to let you know I thank my years of leadership training in 4-H for shaping me into the man I am today. Thank you to you and those like you willing to put in the time to be a positive influence on the youth of Virginia. Sincerly, 2LT George Autry.
Sincerely,
Robert Ray Meadows
Associate Director, 4-H
(Barry Garst)
(Bob Meadows)
(Joe Hunnings)
(Joe Hunnings)
4-H Clubs and affiliate 4-H organizations are exempt from Federal income tax under section 101(6) of IRS Code of 1939, which corresponds to section 501(c)(3) of IRS Code of 1986. Based on the still valid IRS ruling of February 9, 1973, donors may deduct contributions to 4-H Clubs and affiliate 4-H organizations as provided in section 170 of the 1986 Code.To obtain an EIN number, the 4-H Club or organization needs to submit IRS Form SS-4. In completing the Form under Nature of Business, indicate "4-H Club" or "affiliate 4-H organization" and include the 4-H General Exemption Number - GEN 2704. The GEN, issued by IRS, identifies 4-H entities.
However, the GEN and the EIN are different numbers. The EIN is required when a 4-H Club has more than $10 in interest earned in a year and is required by the banking institution for their reporting with the IRS.
I believe you can get the IRS Forms from their web site: http://www.irs.gov. More information about the tax exempt status of 4-H can be found on the national web site: http://www.national4-hheadquarters.gov. Click under "Tax Exemption information."
(Bob Meadows)
Theme: The theme for this year's Rock Eagle experience is, "4-H History: In the Making." Since Virginia is known for its history, and is the birthplace of 8 Presidents of the United States, our folks decided that this is an appropriate theme. A logo is included in this mailing.
Registration: EARLY BIRD Registration is open until August 1, 2004 (postmarked by then) with a fee of $175 per person. This covers meals and lodging on-site plus the Virginia 4-H t-shirt for each participant (transportation excluded). August 2-until time of conference, a late fee charge will be added--the cost will be $185 per person. A registration form is included in this mailing. Registration forms and fees should be made payable to the Virginia 4-H Foundation.
Health Forms: EACH participant attending the SRLF must have a health form. Individuals may choose to submit a health form in a sealed envelope marked "to be opened only in case of emergency," but a health form is a must. I have included a health form for your use.
Accommodations: Lodging will be in cabins, with a majority of participants occupying bottom bunks. Linens, pillows, and blankets are provided by Rock Eagle.
Workshops and Funshops: South Carolina staff will select the ones to be offered at this year's Forum.
Accident Insurance: Accident insurance will be provided for each participant and is included in the registration fee.
Trade Items: Each year, participants attending the SRLF begin the Forum by participating in a get-acquainted social time on Thursday afternoon. Participants bring trade items to trade with other participants (pins, homemade items, etc.) Delegates are encouraged to bring small, inexpensive trade items to trade with other delegates. NOTE: please know that these items should be offered in the spirit of friendship, regardless of the recipient having something to offer in exchange. Also, trade items should be in good taste and not to be sexually explicit or contain vulgar or offensive language.
The Planning Committee asks that no individual or state offer items for sale at any time during the Forum, with exception of state curriculum exhibitors and venders who are pre-approved. This is in keeping with previous committee recommendations.
First Timers Orientation: For all 1st Timers attending Rock Eagle, an orientation will be conducted on the first day, Thursday, September 30, 5-6 pm. We are encouraging all first-timers not to miss this great experience.
We are looking forward to hosting another exciting and educational benefiting Forum with super learning workshops, top-notch speakers, opportunities for meeting new people, as well as renewing old acquaintances, and having fun. If you have further questions, please get in touch with us. Be on the lookout for additional information and updates of the 2004 SRLF.
(Bob Meadows)
These modules (18 total) are designed for 4-H camp adult volunteers who are unable to attend a face-to-face training. (Completion of these modules can be counted towards the 24-hour training requirement, depending upon the individual volunteer and how long he/she spends on each module.)
Unit faculty/staff and 4-H Center faculty/staff may also use these modules as resources to support unit-based and 4-H Center-based 4-H camp volunteer training.
Special thanks to the following Agents, Specialists, Center Directors, Program Directors, and 4-H volunteers who reviewed these modules and provided important feedback regarding their content and clarity: Donna Wells, Sherry Channel, Marcia Meador, Terry Patterson, Billie Jean Elmer, Kevin Irvin, Andrea Carson, Donna Hamm, Dianette Ferguson, Deborah Berry, Lynn Grosz, and Barry Fox.
(Barry A. Garst)
Science News for Kids
http://www.tsgc.utexas.edu/lists/teachers/links/iv/6/link_02.htmlThe Science News for Kids web site targets a middle school audience and archives a variety of science stories including topics on agriculture, earth, environment, dinosaurs and fossils, space and astronomy, weather, and more. There is also, a weekly brainteaser for those who enjoy solving and inventing puzzles (PuzzleZone), entertaining science-fiction composition exercises for those interested in writing (SciFiZone), and weekly science fair profiles and tips (ScienceFairZone).
The GameZone contains a small selection of logic and memory games, implemented as Java applets. The TeacherZone has materials, some related to the feature article of the week, so that teachers can bring science news topics to the classroom. The LabZone features a weekly hands-on activity
(Kathleen Jamison)
Encourage your young people to display their posters in prominent locations to promote June Dairy Month. I look forward to seeing outstanding posters from your unit at 4-H Congress in June. Please let me know if you have any questions.
(David Winston)
2004 Block and Bridle Contests
(for 4H and FFA Members)
| Meats Judging Contest (March 19) | ||
|---|---|---|
| Contest Division | Number of Teams (3 or 4 Per Team) | Number of Individuals |
| Junior 4H | 3 | 14 |
| Senior 4H | 4 | 16 |
| Junior FFA | 5 | 20 |
| Senior FFA | 13 | 53 |
| Total | 25 | 103 |
| Stockmens Contest (March 19) | ||
| Contest Division | Number of Teams (3 or 4 Per Team) | Number of Individuals |
| Junior | 50 | 197 |
| Senior | 58 | 235 |
| Total | 108 | 432 |
| Livestock Judging (March 20) | ||
| Contest Division | Number of Teams (3 or 4 Per Team) | Number of Individuals |
| Regular | 68 | 266 |
| Advanced | 23 | 96 |
| Total | 91 | 362 |
| Horse Judging Contest (March 27) | ||
| Contest Division | Number of Teams (3 or 4 Per Team) | Number of Individuals |
| Senior 4H | 16 | 63 |
| Junior 4H | 16 | 59 |
| FFA | 13 | 53 |
| Total | 45 | 175 |
| 18 contestants in Horse contest were from out-of-state locations | ||
| Grand Total | 1072 contestants | |
(Celia Ray Hayhoe)
The cost to attend this year is $830. This cost covers the one week stay at the National 4-H Center (food and lodging is included), the bus rental and driver fees, and an evening at Toby's dinner theater. The cost increase this year is a reflection of the increased cost charged by the National 4-H Center, the bus fees, and fewer attendees in the past to adequately cover all costs for the trip. If more 4-Hers can attend this year (at least 15 to 20), the cost may possibly be reduced. The trip is expensive, but well worth it! It is an outstanding experience for 4-Hers! Applications are due ASAP.
If anyone is interested in serving as a chaperone, please contact me via email at jhairsto@vsu.edu
( Jewel E. Hairston).
While it is ideal for the host family to have a child of similar age, it is not required. We are looking for caring families that are interested in giving an international student a once-in-a-lifetime experience living in America.
If you are interested or know of a family that might be interested in one of these two delegates please contact: Rebecca B. Moyer,
VA 4-H High School Exchange Coordinator,
434 Chapel Drive,
Woodstock VA 22664
E-mail: rlbmoyer@yahoo.com
Phone: 540-325-1061 (cell) 540-338-6880 (work)
The placement due date is May 1, 2004.
VA 4-H FLEX Delegates:
Name: Oleksiy ("Alexey") Arutyunov
Country: Ukraine (Crimea)
Gender: Male
Age: 15
Grade: 11
Interests: Sports (Basketball, Bicycling, Soccer, Swimming); Reading; Debate, Chess, Acting (Drama); Computers; Shopping; Movies
Pets: has a dog
Personality: Conscientious, industrious, enthusiastic, leader, good sense of humor, thoughtful
Health: No concerns
Religion: Orthodox Christian (attends seldom) Wants to learn more about religious practices
Education: Grades - 10 - 12's on a 12-point scale; Wants to study International law and work in diplomatic corps
Expectations: "It would be very interesting for me to find out as much as possible about traditions of your family, nationŠcultureŠ All my relative and me too are baptized . . . like to find out if you attend any religious services, it would be interesting for me. . . Like to see real patriotism of Am. Nation, proudness of country, nature of people. . . like to how people live in harmony. . . "
Name: Yulia Lyutikova
Country: Russia (Togliatti)
Gender: Female
Age: 16
Grade: 11
Interests: Physical fitness: aerobics, gymnastics, tennis; Camping, Classical & Pop Music, Movies, Playing cards, Sporting Events, Reading
Pets: Has a cat
Personality: Easygoing, sociable, sincere; Lives with grandparents and has close family ties
Health: No concerns; Special Request: NON-SMOKING HOST Family
Religion: Orthodox Christian (attends seldom)
Education: Grades - All 5's in all subjects (5 point scale); Wants to be a businesswoman and work in a bank; Wants to study finance
Expectations: " I want to be a friend to my host family, learn your traditions, culture, habits, everything about you."
Thanks for sharing this info with someone who might enjoy this experience!
(Joe Hunnings)
(Melanie Soper)
Virginia has been competing in the National WHEP event for at least ten years and has been treated to impeccably planned events that have had the support of many state and regional agencies, as well as the community at large. We have gone to states like, Kansas, Idaho, Wyoming, Tennessee, Texas, Ohio and New Mexico. In each locale, our teams have learned about diversity in environment and customs.
Our event has been in the planning stages since 2001. It will attract senior age, state level 4-H champions from twenty-five to thirty states. We would like to reciprocate the generosity of states who have invited us to participate in their National contests. We have been successful in our fundraising, and have almost met our goals. To put us over the top, we are asking for the help of 4-H'ers from across the Commonwealth.
Here is our proposal to you:
4-H'ers Connecting Counties for Wildlife
By having 4-H members from across the state help sponsor the event, we will be showing the nation how much 4-H'ers care about not only 4-H programs, but also their environment.
This event is a great way for Virginia to showcase its 4-H program. Please help us reach our goal of putting on the best 4-H Wildlife Habitat Evaluation Contest ever! Visit our website http://www.ext.vt.edu/2004whep/ to find out more about the contest and its sponsors.
(Ann Gallus, Co-chair, Volunteer 4-H Leader, Loudoun County )
(Mike Clifford.)
The workshop will take place the week of August 17-20, 2004 at the US Fish and Wildlife Service's National Conservation Training Center (NCTC) in Shepherdstown, West Virginia. Please mark your calendars now, if you are interested. The cost is $65/day/person (for the 3-4 day stay), and would include your lodging and all meals. The cost of the workshop registration itself, as well as some of the lodging expenses are provided for by Texas Parks & Wildlife Department and Texas Cooperative Extension. In addition, a limited number of mini-grants are available to cover travel*.
More detailed information and registration material will be sent out by May 1st and posted on the internet site below. Because late summer and fall are busy times and because registration is limited, we are sending out early invitations for participation. Please contact me to be put you on a tentative attendance list if you would like to participate and I will send you additional details shortly.
Information about the first workshop is available on the following website http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/nature/volunteer/txmasnat/ and will include a registration packet for the second workshop beginning May 1st, 2004.
*This initiative is funded by the International Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies Multistate Conservation Grant Program awarded to Texas Parks & Wildlife Department and Texas Cooperative Extension, and locally co-sponsored by Missouri Department of Conservation and University of Missouri Outreach and Extension.
Contact me jkirwan@vt.edu if you are interested in participating.
(Jeff Kirwan)
For more information, please see http://www.longwood.edu/cleanva/index.htm. Thank you for your commitment to cleaning our environment!
(Jeff Kirwan)
The Virginia Geospatial Extension Program is pleased to announce The Extension Agent GPS Program. Through the Extension Agent GPS Program, every extension unit will receive a Garmin Legend GPS receiver and supporting GPS software (GPS Utility). Hands-on GPS application and software training will be provided to facilitate the capabilities of Virginia's extension community. Each extension unit must send at least one paid staff member to a workshop, in order for the unit to receive their dedicated GPS receiver.
Training will be conducted through several of Virginia's Community Colleges, as well as UVA-Wise and Virginia Tech from 10:00 am - ~2:30 pm on the dates listed below.
In addition to providing GPS receivers and training, the Extension Agent GPS Program has also acquired a GPS Lab Kit. The Lab Kit contains 11 GPS receivers, as well as training documentation. The Lab Kit will be available on a "check-out" basis to support your individual educational and outreach requirements. Additional information about the GPS Lab Kits will be provided at each workshop.
Workshop registration (it is free) is required. Online registration, as well as additional information, is available on the Extension Agent GPS Program Website: http://www.cnr.vt.edu/gep/GPS_Workshops
Please register at least 2 weeks prior to each workshop. VCE has agreed to provide lunch for participants at the workshops. Attendees are responsible for their own travel expenses.
If you have any additional questions, please refer to the Website, the attached document, or contact me directly. John A. McGee, Geospatial Extension Specialist, Commonwealth of Virginia, Department of Forestry, Virginia Tech, Mail code 0324; 319 Cheatham Hall, Blacksburg, VA 24061
Please encourage your 4-H'ers to participate. The National 4-H WHEP Contest is coming to Virginia in just 16 weeks. This is our chance to shine!
Direct link to student data mapper: http://kangis.org/mapping/sdm/students/index.cfm?projid=138 Link to 2004 WHEP Contest: http://www.ext.vt.edu/2004whep/
(Jeff Kirwan)
(Barry Fox)
For more information, contact Barry Fox at 804-524-5848 or bfox@vsu.edu.
(Barry Fox)
(Barry Fox)
(Jeff Kirwan)
TSGC is participating in an effort to build a database of students who are interested in receiving additional information about this scholarship opportunity once it is announced. We would like to have 100s or, even better, 1000s of High School Seniors (Class of 04) in the database. TSGC is requesting that you encourage High School graduating seniors at your school who are going to college to study Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics to submit their name to the database. http://www.tsgc.utexas.edu/lists/teachers/links/iv/7/link_01.html
(Kathleen Jamison)
If you want more information on how to donate appreciated securities call Cindy Barnett, Executive Director of the Virginia 4-H Foundation, at 804-662-7290. For current tax laws that may have an effect on a gift of securities, contact your tax or financial advisor.
(Cindy Barnett)
(c) Copyright 2004, Mike DuBose, Research Associates. All Rights Reserved. The Copyright Law of 1976 prohibits the reproduction, photocopying, optical scanning, or other duplication of any part of this publication without prior written permission of Research Associates. Thank you for honoring our work and financial investments.
National Endowment for the Arts
Grants provided by this agency support excellence in the arts. Applications are accepted in the areas of dance, design, folk and traditional arts, literature, local arts agencies, media arts (film/radio/television), multidisciplinary arts, museums, music, musical theater, opera, presenting, theater, and visual arts. Support is provided in three areas: Access to Artistic Excellence, Challenge America Fast-Track Review, and Learning in the Arts for Children and Youth.
Deadlines: Access to Artistic Excellence: August 18, 2004; Challenge America Fast Track Review Grants: June 1, 2004; and Learning in the Arts for Children & Youth: June 14, 2004.
Eligibility: Contact funder for details
Contact: Visit www.arts.gov/grants/apply/GAP05/Contacts.html for contact information.
US Department of Education
Assistance is provided for the promotion of mentoring programs for children with the greatest need. Funds should be used to assist children living in rural areas, high crime areas, or troubled home environments as well as for programs and activities for children who attend schools with violence problems.
Deadlines: Applications will be available May 28, 2004; applications are due July 9, 2004
Eligibility: Local education agencies and nonprofits.
Contact: Bryan Williams, US Department of Education, OSDFS, 400 Maryland Ave, SW, Room 3E259, FB-6, Washington, DC 20202-6123; (202)260-2391; Fax: (202)260-7767; E-mail: bryan.williams@ed.gov; Internet www.ed.gov/programs/dvpmentoring/index.html.
Singing for Change Foundation
Established by singer Jimmy Buffet, this foundation aims to improve the quality of life and enable individuals to make positive changes in their communities. Ranging from $500 to $10,000, awards will be provided in the following areas: Children and Families, Disenfranchised Groups, and the Environment.
Deadlines: None for letters of inquiry
Eligibility: Nonprofits
Contact: Judith Ranger Smith, Director, Singing for Change, PO Box 7210, Kansas City, MO 64113, (816)363-8132; Fax: (816)363-1290; E-mail: info@singingforchange.com
Goldman Sachs Foundation
Grantmaking interests by this funder include advancing high academic achievement at public and alternative schools; fostering partnerships to improve education; and developing future entrepreneurs and global leaders.
Deadlines: None
Eligibility: Nonprofits
Contact: Grants Administrator, Goldman Sachs Foundation, 85 Broad Street, Seventh Floor, New York, NY 10004, (212)902-3925; Internet: www.gs.com/our_firm/the_culture/social_responsibility/gs_foundation.html
National Endowment for Financial Education
Monies provided by this foundation support programs that educate the public, especially young people and members of underserved, low-income groups, on how to better manage personal finances. Projects should encourage personal savings and investment as a means to financial security.
Deadline: August 3, 2004
Eligibility: Nonprofits that propose projects designed to increase knowledge about personal finances.
Contact: Brent Neiser, CFP, CAE, Director of Collaborative Programs, National Endowment for Financial Education, 5299 DTC Boulevard, Suite 1030, Green Village, CO 80111, (303)224-3501; FAX: (303)220-0838; E-mail: ban@nefe.org; Internet: www.nefe.org
Target
Grants are available for projects to create opportunities for students to explore, experience, and create visual art, music and drama.
Deadline: Apply through November 1, 2004
Eligibility: Each Target store is authorized to make Arts in Education Grants within it's community. Visit your local Target store for guidelines and applications.
Contact: Internet: www.target.com
Anderson Corporation Foundation
More than $20 million is available for funding each year through this foundation, which focuses on education and community affairs.
Deadline: None
Eligibility: Contact funder for details
Contact: Send letters of inquiry to Susan Roeder, Anderson Corporation Foundation, Anderson Corporation, 100 4th Avenue, North Bayport, MN 55003.
Ford Motor Company Fund
Millions of dollars in grants are provided by this corporate giver in the following four areas: Helping Communities, Learning for Life, Sustainable Results, and Willing Hands. To apply, contact your local Ford Community Relations Committee (CRD). Locations are listed online at www.ford.com/en/goodworks/fundingandgrants/fordmotorcompany-fund/2001report/communityrelationscontacts.htm. If a CRC is not located near you, send your application to the fund's headquarters.
Deadline: None
Eligibility: Contact fund for details
Contact: To obtain additional information and application materials, visit www.ford.com/en/goodworks/fundingandgrants/default.htm
Home Depot Foundation
Grants are provided for projects that create or rehabilitate affordable housing, serve at-risk youth, protect the environment and natural resources, and prepare for and respond to disasters. Awards will range from $5,000 to $25,000 each.
Deadlines: April 15, July 15, and October 15, 2004 and January 15, 2005
Eligibility: Nonprofits
Contact: Home Depot Foundation, 2455 Paces Ferry Road, Atlanta, GA 30339, (866)593-7019; FAX (866)593-7027; E-mail: hd_foundation@homedepot.com
David and Lucille Packard Foundation
Committed to helping children reach their potential, this foundation provides grants in the areas of Conservation and Science, Population, and Children, Families and Communities. Applicants should send a letter of inquiry detailing the proposed project. Further information will be provided if the project fits within their guidelines.
Deadline: None
Eligibility: Nonprofits
Contact: David and Lucille Packard Foundation, 300 Second Street, Los Altos, CA 94022, (650)948-7658; E-mail: inquiries@packard.org
Sparkplug Foundation
Applications are invited by this foundation for funding for start-up projects and innovations in the areas of music, education, and grassroots organizing. The foundation is interested in making one-time grants for activities that create sustainable organizing and communities. Projects that promote diversity are favored.
Deadline: April 30, 2004
Eligibility: Individuals and 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations that can document the nonprofit nature of their projects.
Contact: Sparkplug Foundation, PO Box 603, Tarrytown, NY 10591, (877)866-8285; E-mail: info@sparkplugfoundation.org; Internet: www.sparkplugfoundation.org.
American Honda Foundation
The philanthropic arm of this automobile manufacturer will provide funding to assist youth oriented programs, including education and minority programs.
Deadlines: May 1, August 1, and November 1, 2004
Eligibility: Organizations that have an IRS designation as a nonprofit, tax-exempt public charity.
Contact: American Honda Foundation, 1919 Torrance Boulevard, Mail Stop 100-1W-5A, Torrance, CA 90501; Internet: www.hondacorporate.com/community/AHF_brochure.pdf
Finish Line Youth Foundation
Offered are funds for youth education, sports, and exercise programs. The focus of the programs should be on living a healthy lifestyle, bolstering confidence and leadership skills, and teaching the importance of teamwork.
Deadline: None. Applications submitted between Arpil 10 and June 30, 2004 will be considered during the August Board meeting; those submitted between July 1 and September 30, 2004 will be considered during the November meeting, and those submitted between October 1 and December 31, 2004 will be considered during the February 2005 meeting.
Eligibility: Youth education, sports, and exercise programs that stress athletic and wellness while focusing on living a healthy lifestyle, bolstering confidence and leadership skills, and teaching the importance of teamwork.
Contact: Finish Line Youth Foundation, Attn: Administrator, 3308 North Mitthoeffeer Road, Indianapolis, IN 46235; Internet: www.finishline.com/store/corporate_info/youthfoundation.jsp
Hasbro Children's Foundation
Programs seeking to improve the emotional, mental, and physical health of disadvantaged children up to 12 years old should consider applying for funding through this foundation. Grants up to $35,000 will be awarded both locally and nationally.
Deadline: None
Eligibility: Nonprofits
Contact: Hasbro Children's Foundation, 10 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10020, (202)713-7654; Internet: www.hasbro.org.
Director's Letter
Calendar of Events
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