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Virginia 4-H Information Letter

September 2004

In This Issue...
Director's Letter
Check Your 4-H Policy IQ
FAMIS and 4-H make Healthy Kids
National 4-H Week - 4-H Online
State Fair Rules/Entry Online
4-H Info Letter Subscription Reminder
Essential Elements of 4-H Youth Dev. --Satellite
Fall Training Staff & Volunteers - Online
Fall American Camping Association Workshop
Renaissance Festival
Curriculum Update
New Enrollment Form
4-H Pubs on the Web
State Fair Stockmens Contest
4-H IFYE Newsletters
Capitol Holiday Tree
Clean Virginia Waterways
4-H Virtual Forest
4-H CHARACTER COUNTS Training
PURSUING VICTORY WITH HONOR
4-H JMG Wildilife Gardener Training
Virginia 4-H Foundation ~New Members
Employment ~National 4-H Center
Virginia Assoc of Fairs Leadership Awards
$2500 Community Grants - Dollar General
Grants Newsletter
4-H Enrollment Data Website
4-H Name & Emblem Graphics

Attachments...

Calendar of Events


The Virginia 4-H Information Letter is produced monthly to disseminate important 4-H information. This is the on-line version. Attachments which are referenced in this newsletter are not available electronically. To obtain copies of the attachments, contact Billie Cline at the address listed

Editor: Billie Cline

Submissions to be included in the newsletter should be sent to:

Billie Cline
107 Hutcheson Hall
Virginia Tech (0419)
Blacksburg, VA 24061
e-mail: bcline@vt.edu


Robert Ray Meadows
Associate Director, 4-H


Dear co-workers:

The summer season has been an exciting and busy adventure for the Virginia 4-H program. The major programs -- State 4-H Congress; 4-H camps; contests; international, interstate, and intrastate 4-H exchanges; and hosting the national Wildlife Habitat Evaluation Program (WHEP) Conference here on campus, -- have literally involved thousands of 4-H members, volunteers, agents, program assistants, specialists, support personnel, and 4-H educational center staff. Additionally, summer 4-H programs conducted throughout our Commonwealth in local unit programs have provided our youth and adults with educational experiences that contributed to greater leadership, citizenship, and life skills. I personally thank you and others who may not receive this newsletter for the outstanding contributions you have made to the Virginia 4-H program. The 4-H program is stronger because of your hard work, dedication, and concern for the youth of our great state.

The summer season has also been busy with reviewing the massive number of applications for the 22 field staff positions we currently are seeking to fill vacant 4-H agent and 4-H educational center slots. We have been blessed to have such quality applicants for these positions and are working to get these filled as soon as possible. Some interviews have already taken place, while others are being scheduled within the next few weeks. We hope to have all positions filled by early fall.

The volunteers and salaried staff throughout the state have been very busy this summer planning and organizing our duties as hosts of this year's Southern Regional 4-H Leaders Forum at Rock Eagle 4-H Center in Georgia. The event will take place Thursday-Sunday, September 30-October 3, and our theme is, "4-H History...in the Making." Under the capable leadership of Dr. Jewel Hairston and Richard Johnson, the ten committees have met several times and are almost prepared to host this annual event that involves approximately 700 adults from the Southern Region. At the time of this writing, we have approximately 70 registered for this year's event from Virginia. We are looking forward to an exciting staff development and fun experience.

I look forward to the fall season and all the opportunities that we have to impact the lives of 4-H youth and adults working with those youth through 4-H programming. Thank you for making the best better in your community, unit, and state. Best wishes for your work with Virginia's 4-H youth.

Bob Meadows

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Check your 4-H Policy IQ

A teen 4-H member is enrolled in the "Cow Patty" 4-H livestock club and specifically the beef project in "X" county. They discover that the Livestock club in "Y" county is going to a regional contest that his club in "X" county is not. Can he enroll in the beef project in "Y" county too?

Your 4-H Policy IQ Answer!
3.6.1 Eligibility Requirements
Youth will normally enroll for all their 4-H work in the unit in which they reside. However, there may be a situation where it is advantageous for youth to be enrolled in the 4-H program outside their unit of residence. However, youth are restricted from enrolling in the same project in more than one unit in the same year.

(Joseph R. Hunnings)

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FAMIS AND 4-H MAKE HEALTHY KIDS

It's Back-to-School time. Parents are busy getting the supplies their children need to be successful in school. However, one thing often overlooked is health insurance. Getting health insurance for your children can help them succeed in school and in life, because healthy childrenmake better students.

FAMIS is Virginia's health insurance program for children. It provides access to quality health services for children who do not have insurance. FAMIS keeps children healthy, and healthy kids make better students. It covers the regular care children need to keep them healthy plus the services that will help them make a speedy recovery if they get hurt or sick. FAMIS covers doctor and hospital visits, prescriptions, shots, dental and vision care, and much more!

To get FAMIS children must live in Virginia, be age 18 or younger, currently uninsured, and U.S. citizens or one of the qualifying legal residents. A parent's citizenship is not considered and application information is not shared with INS. Having FAMIS coverage will not make families a public charge.

It's as easy as 1, 2, 3 to apply! Families can start an application over the phone.

Families can also choose to stop by your local Department of Social Services for an application.

The good news is that there are already over 95,000 children enrolled in the children's health insurance program in Virginia! Community involvement has been key in helping these families take the first step in applying for FAMIS health care coverage. Many families don't realize that they are eligible. They think that they earn too much, but even a family of four making up to $37, 700 a year can qualify.

4-H groups can do many things to help reach families whose children are uninsured. Brochures or flyers can be sent home with members so parents can learn about the program for themselves or pass the information along to a neighbor. Camp programs may include FAMIS information in camp registration packets and articles can be included in local newsletters. Your 4-H club could also sponsor an informational session with a FAMIS Outreach Liaison. These are just a few proven strategies that clubs may want to try for themselves, but it doesn't have to stop there. Be creative in your outreach ideas!

If you would like to order free FAMIS materials or talk to a FAMIS Outreach Liaison about developing an activity for your club, call Olivia Dickerson at 804-786-3359. FAMIS workshops are also available throughout the state. Check out the FAMIS website www.famis.org for more information about the program.

If your child needs health insurance, call 1-866-87FAMIS today to start an application or to get more information. Together we can help prepare our kids for school and a healthy future!

FAMIS is a program of the Commonwealth of Virginia www.famis.org

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National 4-H Week Will Celebrate 4-H Online!

4-H Online! is the theme for National 4-H Week 2004 as 4-H members, volunteers and staff from across the nation celebrate the 4-H community of young people across America from Oct. 3-9, 2004.

Visit www.4husablogs.org/national4-hweek2004 for access to the kit. Contact Laura Phillips Garner at National 4-H Council at lgarner@fourhcouncil.edu for more information.

(Bob Meadows)

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State Fair Rules and Entry Information---Only Available on the Web

The State Fair of Virginia will be held from September 23 - October 3 this year, at the same site as in the past. However, that site is now called the Richmond Raceway Complex. It's still located at 600 E. Laburnum Ave in Richmond.

Simply go to www.statefair.com and click on the "Competitions" tab, then download the rules and registration form. Be sure to use separate registration forms for each contest or show. Questions? Contact Lil Reynolds at the State Fair: lreynolds@statefair.com or 1-804-569-3224

The participation of the 4-H Clubs in Young MacDonald's heightens awareness of 4-H programs. Not only do these students help maintain the Farm, they interact with the public by providing valuable information about the animals. This experience is a win-win for all concerned.

Once again, 4-H has been asked to recruit 4-H groups as hosts for Young MacDonald's Farm. Groups interested in volunteering are asked to follow the steps outlined in the attachment of this letter.

(Bob Meadows))

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Newsletter Reminder Subscription System

The Virginia 4-H Information Letter is a FREE monthly newsletter from the 4-H Department of Virginia Cooperative Extension. It is archived on the Internet at http://www.ext.vt.edu/resources/4h/infoletter/.

The Virginia 4-H Information Letter provides information about 4-H and other youth events, curriculum, dates and services for 4-H professionals, educators, youth and volunteers. Subscribe to a monthly reminder of its availability. http://info.ag.vt.edu/vce/4hnewsletter/index.cfm

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Essential Elements Of 4-H Youth Development Presented Via Satellite ~ September 30

CATHANN KRESS, Director of Youth Development at CSREES-USDA will address educators on "The Essential Elements of 4-H Youth Development" at West Virginia University on Thursday, Sept. 30. The one-hour presentation, which will be broadcast via satellite throughout the country, will begin at 4 p.m. and uplink coordinates will be announced prior to the presentation.

Kress will speak during a meeting of the National 4-H Council's board of trustees at the National Research Center for Coal and Energy on WVU's Evansdale campus in Morgantown, WV. The essential elements-including fostering belonging, mastery of knowledge and skills, independence and generosity in youth-represent a philosophy that values youth. The presentation will help professionals and volunteers who work with youth learn about strategies for incorporating that philosophy into program planning and implementation.

For more information contact ANN BAILEY BERRY, WVU Extension Communications at (304) 293-4221, ext. 3416 or Ann.Berry@mail.wvu.edu (Bob Meadows)

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Two Fall Training Classes For Staff and Volunteers Working With Youth/Teens.

Save Time . . . Learn Online!
Community-Based Service Learning 101 - October 4, and ending November 19, 2004
Need some new ideas on service learning, community service or just working with teens? Attend a web- based training on community-based service learning without leaving your office or home! Find out what others have found - this is a practical course that can enhance your youth development programming.

This introductory certificate course will help you put community-based service learning concepts into action for your youth program. Done entirely online, you will have opportunities to interact with fellow youth development professionals as well special guests working in service learning and other relevant areas.

This course is designed for: Volunteers and staff who work with youth ages 12- to 19-years-old in organizations such as 4-H Youth Programs, Boys and Girls Clubs, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, recreation departments, schools, faith-based youth groups, community action agency youth groups ¬ and anyone else who works with youth.

Course format & components:
The course will provide 7 weeks of online sessions starting October 4, and ending November 19, 2004. This is a highly interactive, noncredit, certificate course. The course cost is $150. Course description, syllabus and registration are now available on the Web at http://www.msue.msu.edu/cyf/youth/commserv/cbsl101 Registration ends September 17, 2004 or when the course is full.

Spring 2004 Class Members said: "I would recommend this course. If anyone wants to run a successful project this course will really help them out." "The course enhances your understanding of what community-based service learning really is . . ." "This course really combines, citizenship, leadership and community service . ."

Want to know more? For more information, contact: Cynthia B. Mark, Ph.D., Program Leader 4-H Youth Development ,Michigan State University, 160 Agriculture Hall , East Lansing, MI 48824-1039 Phone: 517-432-7602 , Email: markc@msue.msu.edu

New Course -
Jump Through JIFF: A Web-Based Class to Teach Youth Food and Fitness Activities - October 11 to November 24, 2004

How can you make a difference in one of the fastest growing issues facing young people in the United States? Learn how physical fitness and nutrition can help children avoid becoming overweight! Or, if you have taken "Jump Into Foods and Fitness" (JIFF) training, would you like to learn how to train others?

The "Jump through JIFF" Web-based course will introduce you to the information you need to feel confident addressing this hot topic! "Jump through JIFF" is a seven-week noncredit, online certificate course. The course is designed to help you put nutrition and physical activity concepts into action in your community and youth programming.

Who Should Attend?
This course is designed for youth development staff, youth coaches, and teen and adult volunteers who work with young people aged 8 to 11 in organizations such as 4-H Youth Development, Extension, Boys and Girls Clubs, scouting, recreation programs, schools, faith-based youth groups and community action agency youth groups. JIFF was designed for use with young people who live in low-income communities, but can be used in many different settings.

What Will I Learn?
Jump through JIFF allows you to interact with other youth development professionals and special guests who work to address the issue of children who are overweight and other relevant areas to:

How Is the Course Structured?
The seven weeks of online "Jump through JIFF" sessions will run from October 11 to November 24, 2004, with interactive weekly lessons and readings to increase your ability to develop programming to address the issue of children who are overweight. The online classroom will provide activities and assignments, course materials, message board networking and weekly real-time chats with guest experts in nutrition, physical fitness and community capacity building. The main text will be Jump Into Foods and Fitness (JIFF).

For more information on computer requirements, syllabus and registration, go to: http://www.msue.msu.edu/cyf/youth/jiff/JIFFcourse/

How Can I Earn a Certificate?
To receive a certificate of completion for this course, you must:

How Do I Register?
Registration is now open and ends September 17, 2004; however, space is limited, so register early. The $150 fee covers registration and material costs and is due when you register. Cancellations postmarked or e-mailed after September 24, 2004, are nonrefundable. To register go to https://vu.msu.edu/cgi-bin/cc_reg_form and follow the prompts. All registration is done online.

"Jump Into Foods and Fitness" curriculum users say: "Youth need to know how healthy eating and adding physical activity can help their bodies grow strong and their brains work well!" 4-H volunteer leader

"The Jump Into Foods and Fitness program is fun to use with children, and the children love the lessons!" ¬ MSU Extension staff member

Want to Know More?
For more information about Jump Through Jiff: A Web-Based Class to Teach Youth Food and Fitness Activities, contact:

Cynthia B. Mark, Ph.D., Program Leader , 4-H Youth Development,Michigan State University Extension 160 Agriculture Hall , East Lansing, MI 48824-1039, Phone: Phone: 517-432-7602, E-mail: markc@msue.msu.edu

( Susan G. Henry, Associate Program Leader, Children Youth And Family Programs, Michigan State University Extension )

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American Camping Association Fall Workshop

There is grant money available for scholarships to this meeting for adults who are involved in Virginia day camps (you do not need to be an ACA member to apply for a grant).

Please note that you do not submit your completed application to the State 4-H Office. Applications should be mailed to Linda Pulliam at the address listed on the flyer. Questions - contact: bgarst@vt.edu

Registration form and flyer for the Fall American Camping Association Workshop - PDF

(Barry A. Garst )

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Renaissance Festival

Southwest District 4-H Teen Weekend
Sept 18-19, Southwest 4-H Center
Youth age 14-19 are invited to join us in making new friends, renewing old acquaintances, participating in life during the transition between Medieval times and the start of the Renaissance. For more information and registration. Email chgates@vt.edu

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Curriculum Update

An update on the Virginia Curriculum Process is bulleted below. Please feel free to contact me with any questions or needs. I have also included information on available national curriculum.

(Kathleen Jamison)

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New Enrollment Forms:

The New 4-H Member Enrollment Form is on the Web! Please let me know where else this site could be hot-linked for your convenience. Address: http://www.ext.vt.edu/resources/4h/4hpubs/generalmaterials.html#enrollment

Agents have requested flexibility of use with the member enrollment form. To meet this need, you will find the following three format choices:

388-002 Youth Member Enrollment
388-014 Youth Member Enrollment Form - Customizable
388-019 Youth Member Enrollment Form - Front page Only

  1. 4-H Member Enrollment Form (388-002) has all project information and can be printed for use as is. The project information has been expanded to include:
    1. all 4HCCS Projects with an icon ($), indicating cost, and all group projects icon *). It is a longer, more comprehensive form.
  2. 4-H Member Enrollment Form (388-014) is in Word format to provide option of deleting projects not available/offered to 4-Her's in your locality. Simply copy the projects you wish to offer from the Word document onto the Word template, customizing to meet your needs.
  3. 4-H Member Enrollment Form (388-019) is the front page ONLY to be used when customizing your project list. You can begin the printing of the project list on the back of this form if you choose, or you can use it as a separate front page.

Note: Hard copies of 388-002 and 388-019 are both available from the distribution center for your convenience. Order as usual. If quantity on hand is "0", order anyway,as copies are being printed on demand.

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All 4-H Publications will be going on the web.

Final decisions on a few final pieces not currently in electronic format will be decided upon at the Curriculum Event. They will either be revised and placed on the web or discontinued. If you have input on any materials not currently on the web, but that you would like to see there, contact the chair of the appropriate curriculum committee before October 11th. Keep me informed about what is working, what is needed, and how I can support your efforts in the field. .Keep me informed about what is working, what is needed, and how I can support your efforts in the field.

(Kathleen Jamison)

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State Fair Stockmens Contest

Information about the 2004 State Fair Stockmens Contest has been posted to the 4H Livestock Website. Site address is http://www.ext.vt.edu/resources/4h/livestock/index.html Once this page is opened, select "Stockmens Contest". The info about the 2004 contest will be apparent. Also at that site is the entry form for this year's contest. Please download and print, complete as requested, and mail to me with appropriate fees included. Note the postmark deadline of Sept 13.

Information at this website supercedes and replaces information that may be available elsewhere, including state fair website!

A rule change made last year appears in Rule number 1. This rule change states that members who participated in the National 4H Skillathon contest are ineligible for the State Fair contest.

I look forward to receiving entries from your group this year.

(Mark L Wahlberg)

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4-H IFYE's Share Experiences

IFYE's share their experiences. Share information with your club members on how they can participate in international 4-H programs. Letters and IFYE information is located at http://www.ext.vt.edu/resources/4h/citizenship.html

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Capitol Holiday Tree

As you are probably aware, Virginia has the distinct honor this year of providing the Capitol Holiday Tree. Attached is a newsletter from JoBeth Brown, the Coordinator, bringing us up to date on the activities planned or underway. Communities through which the tree will pass enroute to the Capitol are planning celebrations. Youth are making ornaments for the tree. Lots of fun and excitement. More information can be found at http://www.capitolholidaytree2004.org

(Judith Jones)

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Clean Virginia Waterways

This year's river cleanup will occur during the months of September and October. For a list of sites, to register your own, or simply see a list of ways to contribute to the environment, please see: http://www.longwood.edu/cleanva/getinvolved1.htm

(Jeffrey L. Kirwan)

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4-H Virtual Forest

http://www.ext.vt.edu/resources/4h/virtualforest/
We are pleased to announce the completion of Virginia Cooperative Extension's 4-H Virtual Forest 4-H Virtual Forest is an interactive, web-based learning experience that introduces forest management concepts to Virginia's youth aged 9 through 13. Seven learning modules cover the following subjects: human impact on the ecosystem (sprawl), renewable resources, photosynthesis, tree identification, succession, tree measurements, and timber harvesting. The modules complement 4-H experiential techniques and are consistent with the Standards of Learning for Virginia public schools. 4-H Virtual Forest also includes user's guides, student activity sheets, teacher answer sheets, additional resources, and SOL links for each module. In addition, student and adult evaluations can be completed and submitted on-line. Soon we intend to send each Extension Office and 4-H Center one copy of the 4-H Virtual Forest CD. In addition, kits containing 25 CD's will be distributed to each district office. Agents can borrow these kits for use in a computer lab setting to avoid the initial download time for each module. Feel free to use the attached flier as a marketing tool. Bookmarks will soon be available for marketing purposes as well. Although 4-H Virtual Forest is ready for immediate use, we would like to formally pilot test the project at three locations within each district. Agents interested in assisting with the pilot testing process should contact Dan Goerlich at dalego@vt.edu for more information.

(Dan Goerlich)

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4-H CHARACTER COUNTS! Trainings

A one-day "4-H/CC! Training" is being offered at two locations in October -- Wednesday, October 6th in Richmond Virginia at the Farm Bureau Headquarters and Thursday October 7th at the Airfield 4-H Educational Center in Wakefield. Each program runs from 8:45am to 3pm. Extension Agents who are nationally certified trainers will conduct the CC! Training!

The cost per participant for the Richmond based training is $50. Lunch is on your own and can be purchased on site. The Airfield-based training is $60 per participant. Lunch is included for this fee. Each registered participant also receives a copy of the CC! curriculum for ages 4 - teens. This is a $250 value. Pre-registration is required.

Potential participants include schoolteachers, Parks and Recreations Departments, church youth workers, youth organization leaders, community leaders and youth development professionals.

For more information and a registration form contact your local 4-H agent or Joe Hunnings, Extension Specialist, 4-H Youth Development, 109 Hutcheson Hall, VA Tech, 540-231-6371; hunnings@vt.edu

(Joe Hunnings)

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PURSUING VICTORY WITH HONOR Programs

Hardly a day goes by without seeing an example in the media of poor sportsmanship in athletics or examples of poor choices by athletes at all levels of play, from pee-wee leagues to professionals. Because sports is so pervasive in our society it presents a wonderful opportunity for coaches, parents, officials and others to develop positive character traits in young people.

Would you like to see more emphasis in youth sports programs in your community on the development of character and less on winning at all costs, more emphasis on sportsmanship and less on gamesmanship?

Pursuing Victory with Honor is a program led by the Sports division of CHARACTER COUNTS! PVWH is designed to help coaches, athletic directors, principals and other youth sports-related individuals to learn the essence of building character, ethical decision-making and sportsmanship.

Virginia 4-H has a group of nationally trained PVWH instructors that can help create an awareness of the need character education in sports and/or help develop implementation plans for a youth sports organization. To discuss how you can get started, contact Joe Hunnings (540-231-6372; hunnings@vt.edu).

(Joe Hunnings)

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4-H JMG Wildlife Gardener Training

The Wildlife Gardener curriculum is a new 4-H Junior Master Gardener resource to help youth understand wildlife and their needs while learning to appreciate their contribution and aesthetic value to a garden habitat. The curriculum engages children ages 8-10 in hands-on outdoor activities and exploration. It teaches environmental awareness and allows them to learn responsibility in caring for living things. Youth will learn to identify and understand forms of wildlife they may encounter in a garden habitat. They will be able to recognize the basic components of habitat and learn how to incorporate those components into a garden setting to attract desirable wildlife to their wildlife garden.

Two trainings have been set up to train 4-H Agents and volunteer leaders, teachers, master gardeners, and others who have an interest in establishing a JMG Wildlife Gardener program. The trainings will be held on September 28th at the Smith Mountain Lake 4-H Educational Center and on October 14th at the Jamestown 4-H Educational Center. Trainings will start at 9am and be finished by 3pm. The cost is $15 for the training at Smith Mountain Lake and $10 for the training at Jamestown. The fee covers lunch and facility use. Pre-registration/payment is due one week prior to the event.

Trainers will be Joe Hunnings, 4-H Youth Development Specialist and Carol Heiser, Wildlife Habitat Education Coordinator with the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries.

For more information and to register contact your local 4-H agent or Joe Hunnings, Extension Specialist, 4-H Youth Development, 109 Hutcheson Hall, VA Tech, 540-231-6371; hunnings@vt.edu

(Joseph R. Hunnings)

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Virginia 4-H Foundation Names New Members

The Virginia 4-H Foundation has named 11 new members to its board of trustees. They will help guide the organization in its efforts to provide support for 4-H, the youth development organization of Virginia Cooperative Extension.

The new members are: Thomas R. "Tim" Burnett, Lynchburg, vice president of the First National Bank of Altavista; John F. Coates, Culpeper; James Earwood, Midlothian, retired vice president of Dominion Virginia Power; Jacki Easter, Amelia Co., executive director of the Farm Service Agency; James Gardner, Midlothian, retired Virginia Cooperative Extension specialist; David Henderson, Chevy Chase, Md., Senior vice president of the National Council of 4-H; Patricia Kluge, Charlottesville, chairwoman of Kluge Estate Winery and Vineyard; Dalton Dale Nixon, Hampton, 4-H volunteer leader; Ronnie Petera, Toano, Eastern district sales manager, Spirits of Virginia; Sharron Quisenberry, Blacksburg, Dean, Virginia Tech College of Agriculture and Life Sciences; Roy M. Terry, Richmond, owner and director, DurretteBradshaw PLC.

Col. F. William "Bill" Billingsley, Mineral, president of F.W. Billingsley and Co., Inc will be president of the board and working with him will be Marni Byrum, Arlington, attorney at law, vice president; R. Daniel Carson Jr., Richmond, Virginia/Tennessee president American Electric Power, secretary; and Phillip S. Griffin, Winchester, attorney at law, treasurer.

Members of the Foundation's Advisory Board are -John B. Adams, Jr., Fredericksburg, President and CEO of Bowman Industries; Harry L. Carrico. Richmond, Retired, Chief Justice of the Virginia Supreme Court; Alan Kirshner, Glen Allen, CEO Markel, Inc., and William Wampler, Harrisonburg, Founder of Wampler Foods.

The 4-H Foundation insures strong and vital opportunities for the positive development of Virginia's youth through the solicitation, receipt, and management of private donations given to support 4-H, said Cindy Barnett, executive director of the Virginia 4-H Foundation.

The new members join those who are continuing their service on the Foundation board: Kenneth Barker, Richmond, Vice president of Dominion Virginia Power; David Chilton, Richmond, director, senior sales analyst, Universal Leaf Tobacco Co.; Randy G. Cost, Richmond, senior vice president of Morgan, Keegan & Co., Inc.; Robert Felts, Ivor, president of R.M. Felts Packing Co.; Jackie Haney, Blacksburg, owner and manager of JLH Tree Farm; Kenneth Harmon, Richmond, DS System Engineering; Lee Martin, Richmond, president, Lee Martin and Co.; Phil Miller, Richmond, vice president/controller, Southern States; Nancy Massie Moga, Covington, school principal; Joan Moore, Middleburg, president, Chipmonk Farm; Reggie Nelson, Richmond, president Colonial Acres Farm; Nancy A. Redd, Roanoke, Miss Virginia 2003; Barbara Rowe Hunt, Virginia Beach, volunteer; William Scott, Amelia, Amelia Lumber Co., & a member of the Virginia Forestry Education Board; Andy Swiger, Blacksburg, dean emeritus, Virginia Tech College of Agriculture & Life Sciences; Dr. Jesse A. Webster, Vinton, veterinarian Georgia M. Willis, of Ruther Glen. They work with ex-officio members C.L. Sigmon II, Richmond, CLS Marketing Group, the immediate past president of the Foundation; Selicia Gregory, Richmond; Cecil Johnson, Aylett; Lorenza Lyons, Petersburg, dean and Extension Administrator, Virginia State University; Robert Ray Meadows, Blacksburg, director of the state 4-H youth development program; Jodi Neuhauser, Barboursville, youth member; Fred E. Phillips, Blacksburg, Virginia Tech Foundation; Cathy Sutphin Blacksburg, Virginia Cooperative Extension administration; and Patricia Sobrero, Blacksburg, new director of Virginia Cooperative Extension.

(Cindy Barnett/Mary Ann Johnson)

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Employment Opportunity --National 4-H Center

Do you know someone between the ages of 18 and 23 with excellent leadership and communication skills? If so, have them visit http://www.wowwashington.org/programassistant.html and apply to be a program assistant today. We are currently accepting applications for Program Assistants (PA's) for our spring program, Wonders of Washington. PA's receive a weekly stipend as well as room and board at the National 4-H Youth Conference Center. Similar to CWF, WOW PA's become licensed tour guides for the Washington, D.C. area and learn to facilitate educational workshops. Positions begin January 31 with an intense four-week training and end mid-May. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions. Stacy Carrell Staff Assistant 7100 Connecticut Avenue Chevy Chase, MD 20815 (301) 961-2800 ext 3819 scarrell@fourhcouncil.edu

If you experience any difficulties, please contact CWF administrator@fourhcouncil.edu for assistance.

(Kathleen Jamison)

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Virginia Association of Fairs Youth Leadership Awards Competition Packet

Contestants between ages of 14 to 19 must have actively participated in their local fairs. They must also complete the application and be present at the convention to compete in public speaking and interviews.Check website for information http://www.ext.vt.edu/resources/4h/statefair.html The contest that will be held at the 2005 Virginia Association of Fairs Convention, January 8, 2005 in Williamsburg, Virginia.

First prize is $2500 scholarship. Second through sixth place prizes range from $1500 to $500.

The contest recognizes superior leadership characteristics among junior members of the association and the industry and encourages and develops leadership skills among Jr members so that they will be able to serve their local boards, industry and communities as tomorrows leaders.

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$2500 Community Grants Available From Dollar General

The Dollar General Corporation offers grants of up to $2500 for non-profit organizations involved in literacy or basic education programs. This is a great opportunity to engage 4-H'ers in service to their communities. Applications must be received by September 5 or December 5. For more information, visit their Web site at http://www.dollargeneral.com/community/communityinvestments.aspx.

(Bob Meadows)

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Grants Newsletter

National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Urban and Rural Community Enrichment Program specialists will train core educators as a team to conduct interdisciplinary aerospace activities in school districts. Activities included in this program are lectures, demonstrations, and hands-on classroom activities that supplement the ongoing curriculum.
Deadline(s): None.
Eligibility: Teachers of middle school students from rural and urban communities.
Contact: Visit h t t p : / / aesp.nasa.okstate.edu/URCEP/index.html to download the brochure or write to NASA Headquarters, Education Division, URCEP
Program Manager, Code FE, Washington, DC 20549.

National Science Foundation
Informal science education projects for public and professional audiences are eligible to apply for funding. Up to thirty awards totaling $15 million will be granted. Projects should target informal learners, from young children to adults and families and be carried out in locations such as museums, zoos, botanical gardens, or community centers.
Deadline(s): November 5, 2004 for letters of intent (for project grants only); January 6, 2005 for full proposals.
Eligibility: C o l l e g e s a n d universities, other nonprofits, nonacademic organizations, science, and education organizations, for-profit organizations, and state and local governments.
Contact: Julie Johnson, (703)292-5117; Fax: (703) 292-9044; E-mail: jjohnson@nsf.gov; Internet: w w w . n s f . g o v / p u b s / 2 0 0 4 /

General Services Administration
The Computers for Learning program will provide computers for classrooms in an effort to prepare children to contribute and compete in the 21st century. Federal computer equipment will be transferred to schools and educational nonprofits, with special consideration going to those with the greatest need.
Deadline(s): None.
Eligibility: S c h o o l s a n d educational nonprofits.
Contact: E-mail: computers.learning@gsa.gov
Internet www.computers.fed.gov/Public/home.asp.

COMMUNITY
Dunn Foundation
The goal of this foundation is to advocate community development through increasing the public's awareness of the negative effects of urban sprawl and poor development planning on the overall quality of life in communities. Award recipients will receive the ViewFinders Too curriculum. It teaches about visual pollution issues and community preferences on the appearance of neighborhoods and commercial areas.
Deadline(s): Letters of inquiry are accepted at any time.
Eligibility: E d u c a t i o n a l programs serving middle school students.
Contact: The Dunn Foundation, 333 Strawberry Field Road, Warwick, RI 02886, (401) 941-3009;
Fax: (401) 738-1535; E-mail: dunnfndn@tiac.net.

3D Action Grants
Up to $500 will be provided for student-led projects working to foster natural or cultural diversity. All initiatives must be student administered and sponsored by an adult mentor who will support the project but not control it. Past grants have been used to develop community improvement programs, environmental education projects, and partnership efforts. Deadline(s): Applications should be submitted one month before the project is schedule to start.
Eligibility: Student-administered teams sponsored by an adult mentor.
Contact: Laural Jackson, Action Grants Manager, (703) 312-0541; E-mail: lauraj@3dzone.org;
Internet: http://.3dzone.org/html/programs/grants.asp.

National Education Association's Foundation for the Improvement of Education
More than 300 small grants will be awarded for classroom innovations or professional development for improved practice in public schools and institutions of higher education. Awards will range from $1,000 to $3,000. Also, 250 Innovation grants will be awarded for $2,000 per year, and 75 Leadership & Learning grants are available. They range from $1,000 to $3,000.
Deadline(s): None.
Eligibility: Practicing US public school teachers of grades K-12;public school education support professionals; and higher education faculty and staff at public colleges and universities. Preference is given to members of the National Education Association.
Contact: Internet: www.nfieorg/programs/grantguides.htm.

ENVIRONMENT
Captain Planet Foundation
Grants provided by this foundation support hands-on environmental projects for children and youth.
Preference goes to original programs that empower children and youth around the world to work individually and collectively to solve environmental problems in their neighborhoods. Grants typically range from $250 to 2,500 each. This year, the foundation is temporarily limiting all grants to $500. Organizations should apply online.
Deadline(s): September 30 and December 31 of each year.
Eligibility: Nonprofits.
Contacts: Captain Planet Foundation, One CNN Center 12SE, Atlanta, GA 30303; Internet: http://www.captainplanetfdn.org/aboutUs.html

Environmental Support Center
Grants are available to support training and technical assistance in areas related to environmental protection. This center also seeks to strengthen nonprofit organizations in the areas of fundraising, organizational development, and planning.
Deadline(s): The first and fifteenth of each month.

Graphic Arts Education and Research Foundation
Support is provided in four areas comprised of three full grants and one mini-grant. Full grants will be awarded in the areas of Standard, which cover a specific time period, Teacher Conferences , and Continuing for Ongoing Projects. Four mini-grants are provided for $2,500 each.
Deadline(s): May 30, 2005 for full grants and none for mini-grants.
Eligibility: Graphicarts teachers, institutions, and students.
Contact: Graphic Arts Education and Research Foundation, 1899 Preston White Drive, Reston, VA 20191-4367; E-mail: gaerf@npes.org.

American Honda Foundation
National programs related to youth and scientific education may be funded by this foundation. Average grants range from $40,000 to $80,000 per year.
Deadline(s): August 1, November 1, and February 1, 2004.
Eligibility: Public and private nonprofits.
Contact: American Honda Foundation, PO Box 2205, 1919 Torrance Boulevard, Torrance, CA 90509-2205, (310) 781-4090; Fax: ( 3 10) 781-427 0 ; Internet http://www.hondacorporate.com/

First Data Western Union Foundation
Officially launched in December 2000, this foundation supports educational, health, and human service programs globally that improve and enhance the lives of individuals, families, and communities most in need. Support is also provided during times of natural disasters. Grants range from $1,000 to $25,000 each. Visit the website for specific instructions on applying.
Deadline(s): December 1, 2004.
Eligibility: Contact foundation for details.
Contact: Lu e l l a Ch av e z
D'Angelo, President, First Data
Western Union Foundation, ATTN:
Grants Program, 6200 South Quebec
Street, Suite 370 AU, Greenwood
Village, CO 80111; Internet: www.firstdatawestrnunion.org..

Andrew Goodman Foundation
Small grants are offered to organizations working on civil rights, and social and economic justice issues. Grants are also made in the areas of constituency organizing, cultural activism, performing arts, and youth activism. Awards range from $100 to $1000 each. Initial contact should be a brief letter of inquiry.
Deadline(s): November 15, 2004.
Eligibility: Organizations with a 501(c)3 tax-exempt status or a fiscal sponsor.
Contact: Andrew Goodman Foundation, 161 West 86th Street, Suite 8A, New York, NY 10024, (212) 362-7265; Fax: (212) 362-7175;
E-mail: andrewgoodmanfdn@aol.com;
Internet: http://hometown.aol.com/andrewgoodmanfdn.

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.
Deadline(s): October 15, 2004 and January 15, 2005.
Eligibility: Nonprofits.
Contact: H o m e D e p o t Foundation, 2455 Paces Ferry Road, Atlanta, GA 30339, (866) 593-7019; Fax: (866) 593-7027; E-mail: hd_foundation@homedepot.com.

American Honda Foundation
The philanthropic arm of this automobile manufacturer will provide funding to assist youth oriented programs, including education and minority programs.
Deadline(s): Augus t 1 an d 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: http://www.hondacorporate.com/

Hanna Andersson Foundation
The philanthropic arm of this clothes retailer provides funding to promote children's participation and empowerment, work to build healthy lives for children, and support coalitions or public policy efforts to support children.
Deadline(s): September 15, 2004, for letters of inquiry. Letters should be sent to allisakg@hanna foundation.org, preferably as an e-mail attachment.
Eligibility: Contact funder for details.
Contact: Alissa Keny-Guyer, ( 503) 553-3551; Int e r n e t :www.hannafoundation.org.

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4-H Enrollment Data Website

After months of development, the Research, Education and Extension Service (REEIS) Website http://www.reeis.usda.gov now features ALL 4-H enrollment data (state, regional, and national) for 1996 - 2003. Once on the website, simply click the "Reports" tab and you will see the 4-H datasets. For any of the data in the CES-237 Annual Enrollment Report you may view, chart, or download to an Excel spreadsheet the data that are of interest to you. I will call your attention to just three.

Historical Trends in 4-H Enrollment, with Graphs 1996-2003. You may manipulate these nationally, for states within a region, or for individual states. Want to quickly ascertain trends in your state by race, residence, school grade, or curriculum category? It's amazingly easy. You click a couple of buttons, and it creates what you want to see "on the fly."

Comparative Analysis of 4-H Enrollment and US Census School Grade Data 2002. (Annual census data does not come out until August, so 2002 is the latest census data). In late August we will have your Market Share for 2003.

Comparative Analysis of 4-H Market Share - 1992 and 2002. I did the 1992 Market Share analysis the hard way, without use of database. Now we show you graphically what has happened in the 10 year period. Some of these will truly amaze you. The difference between the states in Market Share is nothing short of astonishing. Also amazing is how much this can change in a decade. States range from less than 2% of school-age youth reached to over 90% reached by 4-H.

1996 was the first year everyone was using our "new" reporting system. We hope you will put a hotlink to the http://reeis.usda.gov website on your state website, and bring it to the attention of your researchers and enrollment contacts. Eventually, REEIS is supposed to house all the land grant university datasets. At present, it has 4-H, EFNEP, the CRIS research database, and five others. --Alan Smith, USDA

(Bob Meadows)

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The 4-H Name and Emblem Graphics

The 4-H name and emblem graphics can be downloaded from the National 4-H Headquarters Web site at http://www.national4-hheadquarters.gov/4h_name.htm.

( Bob Meadows)

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