4-H Update

Volume 15, Number 11

Dates to Remember:

• May 28:  University Holiday, offices closed
• June 1:  Colorado 4-H Foundation Golf Tournament, Pelican Lakes Golf & Country Club, Windsor
• June 1:  Youth leadership and Citizenship applications due
• June 19-21:  State 4-H Conference, Colorado State University Campus
• June 23 – 30:  Citizenship-Washington Focus, National 4-H Center, Chevy Chase, MD
• July 4:  University Holiday, offices closed

HOST FAMILIES NEEDED – 4-H JAPANESE EXCHANGE – 2012

Host families are needed for 65 inbound Japanese boys and girls, ages 12-21, coming to Colorado through the 2012 inbound Colorado-Japan Teen Exchange.  Hosting dates are July 23 – August 18 OR July 25 – August 18.

This program is coordinated through Colorado State University and has been running since 1975.

Host families do not need to be a member of 4-H and may reside in urban, suburban, or rural settings throughout Colorado.  They may share a room with their host sibling.  Matches are made on the basis of same sex and close in age, as well as some common interests.  Note:  Host siblings may be as young as nine to match with a 12 year old Japanese participant.

All participants are 100 percent medically covered with 4-H insurance and may participate in host family vacations, camping trips, youth camps.  They are expected to become part of the family, including attending church, helping with household chores, follow house rules, and participate in other aspects of US daily life.  The program covers costs for the exchange.  Each participant has his/her own spending money.

Japanese participants will attend an orientation in Denver before going to host families and a debriefing in Denver before returning to Japan. Orientation for host families is done in Denver on the same day as delegate pickup.   Carpools are planned to transport delegates to homes if host families are not able to attend orientation or pick up their exchange student.  A complete orientation packet including program information, culture information, and complete application of the delegate they are hosting will be mailed to host families.

Host siblings have the option of traveling to Japan to participate in a four or eight-week exchange while staying with Japanese host families and learning Japanese culture.

THE GREATEST SUCCESS OCCURS WHEN FAMILIES TREAT THE DELEGATES AS A MEMBER OF THE FAMILY, RATHER THAN A “GUEST.”

Please contact Courtney Loflin, 4-H International Programs, Colorado State University, 970.491.2711, or email courtney.loflin@colostate.edu

- Ellen Butler

2012 Inbound IFYEs to Colorado – Hosting Opportunity

The Colorado 4-H Foundation (former 4-H Youth Fund) was initially established in 1952 to support two programs – IFYE (International Four-H Youth Exchange) and CWF (Citizenship Washington Focus).  Colorado began participating in the IFYE program in 1951, although the program was developed in 1948 as a post-war peace effort involving 4-H farm youth from around the world.  Currently, IFYE participants come from countries on every continent.  Colorado’s IFYE program is the strongest in the United States.

Austria – Franz Winkler  (male – age 29) – June 18 – July 7.  Speaks German and  English.  Hobbies are biking, running, playing football, skiing, cross country skiing, concerts, theater, choir, traditional Austrian dance, and Landjugen (4-H) activities.  His parents own a farm (grassland, grain, corn, forest).  He attended an agricultural school and finished as a skilled worker, followed by studying the occupation as a joiner and finished also as a skilled worker.  (No allergies/ nonsmoker)

Austria – Christine Dumfart  (female -  age 21) – July 9 – August 16.  Speaks German and English.  Hobbies are clarinet, friends, sports, running, biking, hiking, skiing, climbing, and Landjugen (4-H) activities.  She is interested in nature, sightseeing.  Her parents own a farm with livestock and hay.  She attends polytechnic school.  (No allergies/nonsmoker)

Finland – Annina Kirsti Marjatta (female – age 28) – June 18 – July 30.  Speaks Finnish, English, Swedish.  Hobbies are handicrafts, travelling, childcare, nature, 4-H, sheep, goats, flowers, horseback riding.  She has lived her entire life in the middle of the forest.  She is a teacher at a vocational school.  (No allergies/nonsmoker)

Germany – Maximilian Schulze Esking (male – age 24) – June 18 – July 23, July 29 – September 10.  Speaks German and English.  Hobbies are squash, soccer, badminton, piano, friends, playing poker.  He is interested in the American way of farming, especially large units of livestock and crop land.  He grew up on a family pig farm.  They also grew wheat, corn, barley.  He finished his agricultural apprenticeship in 2009 and is current studying agriculture, finishing in 2015.  (No allergies/nonsmoker)
Note:  Maximilian will attend IFYE conference in Nebraska on July 24-28.

Greece – Vladimiros Topalidis (male – age 17) June  18 – July 30.   Speaks Greek and English.  Hobbies are reading, friends, skiing, soccer, basketball, painting, studying, biking, dancing, cooking, music.  He would like to make new friends, see national parks, go mountain biking, rock climbing, and visit ghost towns and ancient ruins.   Father is a farmer raising peaches, apricots, wheat.  He is a student at the American Farm School where he has attended animal and gardening workshops (including milking cows, gathering eggs, engineering, painting and hydraulics classes).   (No allergies/nonsmoker)

Switzerland –Margrit Stalder  (female age 24 – June 18 – September 10.  Speaks German, French, and English.  Hobbies are music, skiing, mountain biking, rifle shooting riding horses, walking, and skiing.  Other areas of interest are farming and agriculture.  Parents operate a farm with milk cows.  She is currently a retail assistant and hopes to take over her parents’ farm in the future.  (No allergies/nonsmoker)

Taiwan – Ya-Lan Cheng (female age 35) – June 18 – July 23.    Speaks Taiwanese, Mandarin, and English.  Hobbies are music, reading, handicrafts, sewing, singing.  Other areas of interest are agriculture, crop production methods, teaching methods, 4-H clubs.   She lived for five years on a small mango farm.  She is currently a teacher.  (No allergies/ nonsmoker)

Inbound IFYEs from Austria, Finland, Germany, Greece,  Switzerland, and Taiwan will attend National IFYE Orientation in Wichita, Kansas, prior to arriving in Colorado.  They will also attend State 4-H Conference at CSU June 19-21.  (With the exception of Christine who arrives July 9)

IFYEs generally stay with a host family for two-three weeks.  The goal is for these exchange participants to learn about everyday life in the United States by participating in the homestay experience.  All delegates have medical insurance and personal spending money.

Please contact Courtney Loflin at the State 4-H Office for more information regarding these IFYEs,  970.491.2711
Courtney.loflin@colostate.edu

- Ellen Butler

State 4-H Conference

4-H to the Xtreme!

The 2012 Colorado State 4-H Conference will be held June 19-21. State 4-H Conference provides great training and an opportunity for 4-H members, leaders, and Extension agents to strengthen their leadership skills. It also hosts the following state contests including: Livestock Bowl, Livestock Judging, Consumer Choices, Consumer Bowl, Horse Bowl, Horse Judging, Hippology, Horse Demonstration and Public Speaking, Prepared Speech, Impromptu Speech, and Parliamentary Procedure. We look forward to your participation!

Registration
State 4-H Conference information will be available on the web at http://www.colorado4h.org/events_opportunities/stateconference. Registration is $70 per person and for those participating in contests, there is an additional $20 entry fee per contest. For your convenience, we have provided a participant registration form and parent letter for your use; just add your registration deadline and payment information. Please share this information, along with a copy of the workshop descriptions and tentative schedule, with those interested in attending conference. There is also an informational piece to share with parents that you can edit and print on letterhead.

Registration instructions and online registration will be available through 4-H Online May 3 through May 31. Registrations entered after May 31 will be charged a $20 late fee per participant. Online registration will end on June 6 at 12:00 Midnight. Changes can be made directly with Melissa Oliver via email at melissa.oliver@colostate.edu, or by phone, 970.213.0899, after June 6.  Cancellations between May 31 and June 6 will incur a cancellation penalty of a minimum of $20 up to the full registration dependent on what numbers have been turned in and guaranteed.  NO refund will be given for cancellations after June 6.

Payment
Payment for the entire amount is due by June 6. Please use Extension, county government, 4-H leader or youth council checks when paying your registration. Personal checks will not be accepted as it places the entire conference at risk of paying City of Fort Collins taxes. Please make your check payable to the Colorado 4-H Foundation and have it postmarked by June 6. Upon arrival on June 23, we will calculate for additional billing or refunds as necessary.

Please mail to: State 4-H Events Office, ATTN: Melissa Oliver

Rocky Mountain Camps Open to Military Kids Ages 13-17!

Please help us fill our Rocky Mt. Adventure Camps! $25 registration fee for military youth ages 13-17. Go to http://www.active.com/military-camp/golden-co/rocky-mountain-adventure-camp-colorado-state-university-military-youth
Rocky Mountain Adventure Camp 2012-Buses pick up at Fort Carson, The Academy and Buckley AFB.

May 29-Jun 01 RMAC Pingree Camp 1-
Jun 05-Jun 08 RMAC Pingree Camp 2
Jun 19-Jun 22 RMAC Pingree Camp 3
Jul 09-Jul 12 RMAC Pingree Camp 4
Jul 17-Jul 20 RMAC Pingree Camp 5

We have just added 13 year olds so please help us spread the word. Contact Amy Quinn amy.quinn@colostate.edu with any questions.

- Shauna Vail Woods, Operation: Military Kids Program Coordinator – Colorado Military Liaison

Exciting News: Daniels Scholarship Moves to Open Application Process

We are excited to announce that, starting in fall 2012, students will no longer need a nomination to apply for the Daniels Scholarship. A new “open application process” will allow students to initiate the scholarship application themselves, rather than the process beginning with a nomination from a Referral Agency.

While the new approach will provide greater access to students interested in applying for the Daniels Scholarship, we will still rely on the assistance of high schools, youth serving agencies, and college prep providers to share the opportunity to apply with viable candidates and provide recommendations for their scholarship applications.

“We are grateful for the input we received from hundreds of referral agency representatives who responded to the survey sent after the close of the recent application process,” explained Kristin Todd, senior vice president for Scholarships. “The complexity of the application process was a common theme, but we also heard from a number of respondents that many of their students struggled with the nomination and recommendation process,” she explained.

The Daniels Fund listened carefully to these concerns and believes that the open application will streamline the process to make it easier for students to complete and submit their application, as well as confirm that their recommenders have submitted their information.

Students will have access to the 2012-2013 online scholarship application via the Daniels Fund website. The students and all student- identified recommenders will also have access to an online portal to monitor progress during the scholarship application process.

As in past years, the scholarship application will launch in early September and close in late November.

As always, please contact your regional representative should you have questions about the Daniels Fund scholarship.

- Ellen Butler

Invitation to 4-H Members to the CSRN GPS Day Event, June 9, 2012

On behalf of the Colorado Spatial Reference Network, CSRN, (www.csrn.us) a chapter of the Professional Land Surveyors of Colorado, PLSC, I would like to extend an invitation to 4-H members in Colorado to the CSRN GPS Day Event to be held on June 9, 2012, 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, Utah Park, 1800 S Peoria St, Aurora, CO 80012.

The event is free and open to youth and adults to learn about Global Positioning Satellites, GPS, Geographic Information Systems, GIS, Land Surveying, Geocaching, and Geodesy.  There will be professionals who work with GPS, GIS, Land Surveying, Geocaching, and Geodesy volunteering to share their knowledge to those that attend this event.

Click on these links for further information.

http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2012/CSRN-GPS-Day-SaveTheDate.pdf
http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2012/CSRN-GPS-Day-Program.pdf
http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2012/CSRN-GPS-Day-EventSummary.pdf
http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2012/CSRN-GPS-Day-SiteMap.pdf
http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2012/CSRN-GPS-Day-CertificateOfCompletion.pdf

The CSRN would like to have this posted as an activity for 4-H members to attend.  This is open to any age group interested in GPS and the ways it is used.

- Ellen Butler

Awards for State 4-H Conference

I just wanted to remind all of you about the two awards that the Colorado State 4-H Officer Team sponsors.  The 4-H Senate Raleigh Brooks Outstanding Leader Award and the 4-H Senate Mile High Outstanding Youth Leader Award.  The applications for the these awards can be found on the 4-H website at: http://www.colorado4h.org/councils/senate/Forms/forms.php

These two awards are given during the banquet at State Conference.  Please look them over and please recognize your outstanding leaders and 4-H members.

Awards Nomination Forms
•    4-H Senate Raleigh Brooks Outstanding Adult Leader Award
•    4-H Senate Mile High Outstanding Youth Leader Award

- Connie Cecil

4-H Foundation Scholarships Awarded

The Colorado 4-H Foundation Scholarship Committee has completed its assessment of the scholarship applications, and the winners of this year’s scholarships have been selected.  This year we received a total of 92 applications for all the various scholarships.

Those receiving scholarships are:

1st Choice After School Kare ($1,000) (new scholarship this year) – Kelly Buchanan (Boulder)

Colorado Agricultural Development Authority ($1,000 each)
- Taylor Hett (Weld)
- Tyler Konieczka (Jefferson)
- Derek Schroder (Baca)
- Kortnee Spelts (Yuma)
- Emily Wellman (Moffat)

Bill and Barbara Holthaus Scholarship ($1,000 each)
- Conner Gerken (Morgan)
- Abbey Pizel (Rio Grande)
- Thomas Price (El Paso)

Kimberling Family Scholarship ($1,000) (increased from $500 to $1,000 for this year since extra funds were available)
- Nikki Buhrdorf (Delta)

Murdoch’s Ranch and Home Supply Scholarship ($1,000) (five scholarships awarded this year rather than just one as in previous years)
- Natalie Curtiss (Boulder)
- Karisa Fuerniss (Larimer)
- Kasey Miles (Delta)
- Brandon Morgan (Montrose)
- Ayla Newman (Morgan)

Portouw Photography Scholarship ($300)
- Katie Server (Boulder)

Audrey Sandstead Scholarship ($400)
- Kaitlin Williams (Jefferson)

Howard E. and Marjory M. Smith Scholarship ($1,000)
- Mallory Hoots (Routt)

- Bill Gargan, Colorado 4-H Foundation

NIFA Partnership Awards

The National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) recognizes there are many outstanding contributions that our partners in the land-grant universities and other cooperating institutions and organizations have achieved.  To recognize these achievements, the Partnership Awards Program was established in 2007.

NIFA invites all land-grant universities and cooperating institutions and organizations supported by NIFA to submit nominations for the 2012 NIFA Partnership Awards Program.  This program recognizes outstanding contributions, aligned with NIFA strategic goals, in support of the USDA mission.  Awards for this year will recognize excellence in:
•         Mission Integration of Research, Education, and Extension
•         Multistate Efforts
•         Innovative Programs and Projects
•         Effective and Efficient Use of Resources
•         Program Improvement through Global Engagement

Nominations can be submitted for individuals or teams of up to 35 members.  Each institution may submit up to two nominations (combined total across all categories), meaning the entire institution including research, education, and extension functions.

Specific instructions and other information regarding this awards program are attached (2011 NIFA partnership criteria.doc).  Nominations must be submitted via the NIFA Partnership Awards Nomination Form, also attached (2012 NIFA partnership Nom-form.doc).  All signed nomination forms must be submitted by July 13, 2012, via email using scanned files that have been saved as .pdf or .jpg files to Chevon Gibson at Chevon.Gibson@ars.usda.gov according to instructions in the attached guidelines.

Winning nominations will be recognized at the NIFA Day of Appreciation tentatively scheduled for October.  NIFA will pay travel expenses for one person from each winning nomination, whether it is an individual or team award.

Nominations should include only individuals or teams who have performed truly distinguished service.  We ask that Deans, Directors, and Administrators thoroughly review each submission for validity of accomplishments before signing his or her approval on the nomination form.

We have many excellent examples of success in these categories across our partnership, and NIFA looks forward to recognizing great accomplishments in October.

- Chavonda Jacobs-Young , Ph.D., Acting Director
National Institute of Food and Agriculture

USDA Childhood Obesity Challenge Area RFA Released

Hello everyone-Please see the following for the release of the USDA childhood obesity challenge area RFA: http://www.nifa.usda.gov/newsroom/news/2012news/04091_obesity_rfa.html

Please note the application deadline of June 5 and focus area of adolescents ages 15-19.

Suzanne Le Menestrel
National Program Leader, Youth Development Research
4-H National Headquarters, Division of Youth & 4-H
Institute of Youth, Family & Community, NIFA, USDA
Phone:   (202) 720-2297
slemenestrel@nifa.usda.gov
http://www.csrees.usda.gov/youthdevelopment4h.cfm

4-H Update

Volume 15, Number 10

Dates to Remember:

May 1:  4HOnline Youth Enrollment Data due
May 1-3: CAE4-HA, Albuquerque, NM
June 1:  Colorado 4-H Foundation Golf Tournament, Pelican Lakes Golf & Country Club, Windsor
June 1:  Youth leadership and Citizenship applications due

Routt County 4-H Agent Position Opening

4-H Extension Agent, Routt County: Salary range $3,862 – $4,132 plus benefits.  Duties include: provide information on national and state 4-H programs to members, leaders and other county residents, assist with county 4-H projects and programs, oversee youth programs, assist youth and adult councils with club fund raising and community service projects, events, and activities, provide technical support for local 4-H projects and programs, train and coordinate training for youth members and adult leaders, assist with livestock projects.  A full job description is available upon request.  Applicant must have a Bachelor’s degree in agriculture or youth development with a Masters preferred, one to three years of experience in youth programs, community relations or agriculture.  Applicant must have the ability to: communicate effectively with youth and adults, handle and work with livestock, computer skills, and the ability to use multimedia in presentations.

A cover letter and the Routt County Application must be received before 3 pm, May 3, 2012.  You can access the Routt County application on our website.  Click on the Human Resources page: go to How to Apply: click on the Routt County Job Application.

Failure to submit all of the above paperwork will disqualify you from the application process.

Deliver to: Human Resources, Attn: 4-H Extension Agent, 136 6th Street, Steamboat Springs, CO; e-mail Georgian Kalow at gkalow@co.routt.co.us, or fax to 970-870-5362.  Applications can be mailed to PO Box 773598, Steamboat Springs, CO 80477-3598.  The application paperwork must be received on or before the deadline listed.   You may use any of the methods listed to apply for this position. Click on here for more information:  http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2012/RouttCounty4H.pdf

Routt County is an Equal Opportunity Employer, ROUTT COUNTY HUMAN RESOURCES, P. O. Box 773598, Steamboat Springs, CO 80477,  970.870.5361      FAX: 970.870.5632
- Ellen Butler

4-H Enrollment Data Due on May 1

This is just a reminder that the May Deadline is coming soon!

To Verify your counts w/n 4HOnline go to: Enrollment | Search (Make sure the textbox is empty) Check the boxes “Youth”, “Active” and “Archived” – The Number “returned” is the number you will use for the attached form. (NOTE: Archived are members that PAID, but have since decided to withdraw from 4H but we still need to count them in the total)   The form can be downloaded at:

www.ext.colostate.edu/ye/forms/enrollverification.doc

Please provide the appropriate signature (s) and either email, fax or mail to me by May 1 (information listed below).

ALL INVOICES WILL BE SENT VIA EMAIL -  DO NOT SEND MONEY UNTIL THE INVOICE ARRIVES!

Please feel free to contact me at 970.491.3887 or Email: joy.bauder@colostate.edu.
- Joy Bauder

4-H Build a Million Club

Michigan State University Extension has announced a new family and consumer economics curriculum, “4-H Build a Million Club”  funded by FINRA. (See the News Release attached.)   The  “4-H Build a Million Club” is posted on the eXtension.org website listed in the “Financial Security for All” Community of Practice.   Please share this press release and email announcement.   The eXtension.org website is available here:  http://www.extension.org/pages/61531/4-h-build-a-million

Join my4-h.org

I would like to welcome you to register for the just-launched my4-H site. In 5 simple steps, you’ll be using my4-H, giving you instant access to a slew of productivity, professional development, and collaboration tools and even resources and communities specific to Colorado and STEM! STEP 1 — Go here: https://www.my4-h.org/ and click on the orange button called Request Membership. STEP 2 — Fill out the registration form. On Page 3, make sure to check the box for any areas of interest. STEP 3 — Look out for an email with your OpenID login. Click on the link within the email to create your password. STEP 4 — Return to https://www.my4-h.org/ and login with your OpenID. (Note: This will take you to a page that appears to be for ACCESS Enrollment but will in fact take you to my4-H.) STEP 5 — Begin to explore my4-H! Update your profile with your picture and other details… post your first my4-H status… and more! Thanks!
- Claire Dixon, Front Range STEM Specialist

Invitation to Gear Tech 21 Camp Training – it’s not just for camp!

The Gear Tech 21 Camp Team would like to share an invitation to take part in our Gear Tech 21 Camp training that will be held May 29 and 30 in Akron ( 9 am to 4 pm).  We are holding three (3) Gear Tech camps in the Golden Plains this summer and are very pleased to have a trainer coming from UNL to do a two day face-to-face training with the staff and volunteers who will be running the camps. As you probably know, Gear Tech focuses on NXT robotics and geospatial technology. During the training,  we will be learning to do the projects that the kids will be doing – building and programming robots, learning how to use and do activities with GPS units and learning how to use on-line GIS to work with maps.  If you would like to learn more about using these technologies, we would love to have you attend the training with us.  There is a $25 charge for the training for anyone who will not be helping with a camp which goes to UNL.  Lunch is included. If you would like to become one of our camp volunteers, you can do the training for free!  Let me know if that sounds like fun.  It would be a great way to get familiar with the Gear Tech program so you can hold your own next year.

To register for the camp, they ask you first to take a little pre-survey and then you can fill in the registration.  If you do not already have a Gear Tech log-in, there are instructions below to sign up.  You will want that so you can look at the curriculum they provide.

I really learned the biggest part of what I know about robotics from the Gear Tech curriculum so can tell you for sure if you or some of your volunteers have been thinking about taking the plunge into the NXT robotics project, you would find this beneficial.  We will cover robotics the first day and the geospatial material the second day.

Below is all of the info you need to get signed up.  If you do decide to come, please send me an email telling me you registered as all of the registration materials go to UNL and we want to be sure we have enough lunches!

To sign up: The first step in registering for the workshop is to complete the GEAR-Tech-21 pre-survey:  http://tinyurl.com/GT21educatorpresurvey. The last page of the survey will take you to the UNL Marketplace for online registration.  If you need to get directly to the online registration:  http://marketplace.unl.edu/ne4h/geartech21/gear-tech-21-training-registration.html. The fee is $25 per person, and includes a printed copy of the GEAR-Tech-21 Helpers Guide and Youth Workbook.  Those who are assisting with GEAR-Tech-21 camps in 2012 may register for free by entering a coupon code provided to the lead camp coordinator.

Before the workshop: Create a user account on the GEAR-Tech-21 website:  http://www.geartech21.org. Please allow a day or two for account approval.  After your account is approved, you’re encouraged to start looking at the GEAR-Tech-21 activities and Helper Guides.

We would love to have you join us!

- Christy Fitzpatrick Northern Regional Extension Specialist

Wild Bug Fish Camp

Please click on these links for further information about Wild Bug Fish Camp! Save the date – June 25-28!

http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2012/WBFC_Flyer_2012.pdf http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2012/WBFC_Brochure_2012.pdf

FLEX High School and Japanese Summer Inbound Promotions

For further information about recruitment releases for the FLEX high school (Future Leaders Exchange) and Japanese Summer Inbound (month-long) promotions, please click on the link below.

http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2012/HostFamiliesNeeded.pdf
http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2012/2012-FLEX-RecruitmentDescription.pdf

- Courtney Loflin

Ready! Set! ACTion!

Ready! Set! ACTion! is an AMAZING new project launching now for youth leadership groups across the state of Colorado.  Driven by youth organizers, who call themselves Coffee! and as a project of The Civic Canopy powered by Kaiser Permanente, this project is like no other.

What is it?  We are challenging youth to create a health ACTion-project and video of the change they are making around health.  Make an impact on your community and have a chance to receive a donation of up to $5,000 from Kaiser Permanente.

When is the next important date?  Registration deadline is June 30, 2012!

What is our website?  Go to www.readysetaction.org for more information on the project and to fill out a registration form.  Once you fill out a form you will be assigned a youth producer who can answer any of your questions about the project.

Why?  This youth driven initiative provides you with many exciting advantages: 1. Health and youth leadership resources 2. Technical video assistance 3. Youth leadership group connections 4. Blog opportunities 5. Camera access (if needed) 6. Health ACTion-project video premiere event in Spring of 2013! 7. The chance to receive a donation of up to $5,000 for your group

Groups have until March 2013 to complete the project but you must register by June 30, 2012 to be a part of this challenge!

We hope you register to share your amazing work with others through Ready! Set! ACTion!  Please share this opportunity with your youth leadership group and/or share with other groups as well.

Contact:  Ana Soler, Managing Director – The Civic Canopy Phone:  303.292.3144 Cell:  303.319.6022
Email:  ana@civiccanopy.org
- Ellen Butler

American Paint Horse Association 4-H Statewide

Get “CREDIT” For Your American Paint Horse

The PAC (Paint Alternative Competition) program awards credits to Paint Horses for achievements outside of APHA-approved events.  PAC is designed to give youth the opportunity to count their open show and 4-H accomplishments on their Paint Horse’s records, and achieve year end awards for their efforts. This is a great way to get started in the show arena, and gain experience without adding too much cost.  Members can get automatic recognition at any 4-H event, or use a PAC-approved event within the PAC show calendar for further credit.  Your Paint Horse must be enrolled each year ($25) and the owner must also be a member of the AjPHA or APHA.  Once enrolled, the exhibitor forms can be filled out, signed by the show secretary and sent in for automatic credit. For more information on the PAC program go to http://www.apha.com/pac/.  The American Junior Paint Horse Association is the youth component of the American Paint Horse Association. Anyone aged 18 & under (as of January 1st) with an interest in Paint Horses is invited to join the “j”. AjPHA members enjoy the same membership benefits as adult APHA members, and can participate in APHA-approved shows and programs. In addition, the AjPHA offers activities that don’t require a horse, including a youth leadership conference, art contest, photography contest, short story contest, and horse judging contest.  AjPHA offers something for everyone so come join us for some FUN, FRIENDS, and GREAT HORSES.  For more information and for details on how to join AjPHA, visit http://www.ajpha.com/.

In addition, AjPHA also sponsors several State 4-H Horse shows a year giving prizes and awards to all 4-H youth participating in their state competition.  For 2012 AjPHA will also be teaming up with local Paint Horse Clubs to add additional events during the shows as well as awards that will be specifically for Paint Horse exhibitors.
- Ellen Butler

Re-launching of StopBullying.Gov

We are excited to introduce you to a revitalized www.stopbullying.gov! Building on the momentum started a year ago by the Obama Administration and relaunched in partnership with the Department of Education, the new site emphasizes action steps individuals can take to prevent and stop bullying in their schools and communities. It also features easy-to-use tools and resources for community leaders, young people and families, including:

• How to recognize the warning signs and when to take action
• Tips to prevent bullying before it starts
• How to implement strategies for intervention
• Ways to share your community’s resources, policies or strategies to prevent and address bullying
• Information on bullying laws in your state

We hope the new site will help you share ideas and start discussions about the role you can play in preventing bullying in your community. Show your support on your own website with our widgets and badges and subscribe to email updates to find out about new content on the site. We also encourage you to consider submitting your materials for inclusion in our resource database.  You can also follow StopBullying.gov on Twitter or Facebook for more information on how to take action. Please also look for the yellow boxes at the bottom of most pages. This is our new user feedback tool, which you can use to tell us whether you found the page useful or not. You can also share your ideas for how to improve it. We hope you enjoy the new site, and look forward to hearing your feedback on how we can continue to support your work on bullying prevention and intervention.   Sincerely, The StopBullying.gov Editorial Board, with representation from:   U.S. Department of Education U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, including:
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• Health Resources and Services Administration
• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

- Ellen Butler

Speak Now Media Toolkit Training

We hope this finds you well and enjoying the sunny skies! Thank you for your participation in the Speak Now Media Toolkit Training and for your excitement and willingness to assist the Division of Behavioral Health in disseminating the statewide social marketing campaign message “Speak Now! Talk with your kids about the dangers of teen drinking”.    Please let us know if you need the Speak Now Media Toolkit or posters in English and Spanish to display in your community.  You can contact me, sharon.liu1@state.co.us, Shadia, slemus@webbpr.com, or Andy, acohen@wepppr.com to have the toolkit and posters sent to you.  Please provide us with your address and the # of posters you need. Also, feel free to share this with others who may be interested in the Speak Now campaign. I have attached the 2012 Speak Now Communications Plan, Campaign Fact Sheet, and Tactical Action Plan worksheet.   The “Speak Now! Talk with your kids about the dangers of teen drinking.” statewide social marketing campaign will be launching on Monday, April 2, 2012. Be sure to check out the website at www.SpeakNowColorado.org or www.HableAhoraColorado.org

http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2012/TacticalActionPlan.pdf http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2012/CommunicationsPlan-CPPS.pdf http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2012/CampaignFactSheet.pdf

- Ellen Butler

4H Update

Volume 15, Number 9

Dates to Remember:

March 24-29: National 4-H Conference, Washington, DC
April 1:  State scholarship applications due
May 1:  4HOnline Youth Enrollment Data due
May 1-3: CAE4-HA, Albuquerque, NM
June 1:  Colorado 4-H Foundation Golf Tournament, Pelican Lakes GOlf & Country Club, Windsor
June 1:  Youth leadership and Citizenship applications due

National 4-H Congress Update

We wanted to remind you all that the process for National 4-H Congress delegate selection has changed.  Beginning this year, delegates will now be selected by earning Grand Champions status at state fair in 14 different project areas.  Click o this link to see a list of the project areas http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2012/National4hCongress.pdf.  A 4-H member may attend National Congress only once.  If a 4-H member is a selected as a Grand Champion more than once throughout their 4-H career, they can still only attend Congress one time.  The Reserve Grand Champion will not be moved up to fill the position if a member decides not to attend Congress or has been selected as a Grand Champion in more than one project area.
- Connie Cecil

International 4-H Youth Exchange Reporting

Please click on this link to read a brief promotional piece regarding a great opportunity to have our IFYE delegates provide an educational experience in your counties to a variety of audiences.  The three reporting IFYEs still have several time slots available.  Please promote this and let me know if you have any questions.  http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2012/IFYE-ReportingPromotion.pdf
- Courtney Loflin

4-H Robotics

Looking for a one-page hand out to describe 4-H robotics? The attached flyer, created by Kyle Jones at National 4-H Council is just that! You might even recognize Colorado’s guest celebrity! Check it out!  http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2012/4hRobotics.pdf
- Ellen Butler

$10,000 AND $25,000 Grants Available to Rural School Districts through America’s Farmers Grown Rural Education

Statistics show that the United States ranks only 25th in math scores and 21st in science compared to 30 industrialized nations. These facts show that education is strongly in need of support. To help, Monsanto Fund, the philanthropic arm of Monsanto Company, is launching America’s Farmers Grow Rural Education℠ to aid rural school districts by providing $10,000 and $25,000 grants in 1,245 counties across 39 states.

“We believe our rural communities are the heart of America,” said Deborah Patterson, Monsanto Fund president. “We want to help strengthen local communities and education systems, especially in the areas of science and/or math. A strong science and math education helps build a foundation for many careers in agriculture, but also will help our students to be more competitive with those in larger cities and other nations.”

America’s Farmers Grow Rural Education gives farmers the opportunity to nominate a public school district in their rural community to compete for a grant. Nominated school district administrators can then submit an application for either a $10,000 or $25,000 grant to support a science and/or math educational program by April 30, 2012. School districts that apply for a $10,000 grant will compete against other school districts that are located in the USDA-appointed Crop Reporting District (CRD); except that CRDs with fewer than five eligible school districts will compete against each other for a single grant. A school district that applies for a $25,000 grant will compete against schools that are located in its state or designated region.

The Monsanto Fund will award 199 grants this year. There will be 177 $10,000 grants and 22 grants of $25,000 awarded. Visit growruraleducation.com to see a complete list of eligible states and regions. Overall, the Monsanto Fund will donate more than $2.3 million to school districts in 39 states through this program.

Grants will be awarded based on merit, need and community support. The America’s Farmers Grow Rural Education Advisory Council will select the winning grant application. This group is made up of 26 farmer leaders from across the country, who are passionate about both farming and rural education. The council members are actively engaged in their local communities through various leadership positions, such as a member of the local School Board, an active Farm Bureau leader or a member of an educational organization or committee within various organizations. The council is responsible for reviewing the top grant applications to select the winning school. These individuals are passionate about both agriculture and education, which is essential when choosing the best grant.

The program started with a successful pilot in Illinois and Minnesota, in which farmers were given the opportunity to nominate a public school district in 165 eligible counties in those two states. The Monsanto Fund awarded more than $266,000 to local schools in 16 CRDs through the pilot.

The America’s Farmers Grow Rural Education program is part of a broad commitment by Monsanto Fund to highlight the important contributions farmers make every day to our society by helping them grow their youth. Visit www.growruraleducation.com for additional information and to view a complete list of winning school districts.

About Monsanto Fund The Monsanto Fund, the philanthropic arm of the Monsanto Company, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening the farm communities where farmers and Monsanto Company employees live and work.  Visit the Monsanto Fund at www.monsantofund.org.
- Ellen Butler

Announcing the Toyota Innovation Awardees

This year three 4-H National Youth Science Day events earned the top award for their creativity, their ability to build momentum around a Wired for Wind event and their commitment to community impact. These submissions were selected from more than 700 events nationwide and more than 100 submissions overall.

$4,000 Creativity Award Winner University of Illinois Extension, Unit 19 – On Oct. 5, 2011, 75 fourth graders from Cumberland Elementary School visited Lake Land College campus where they spent three hours conducting the Wired for Wind experiment, led by Lake Land College technology division instructors. This community event invited partnerships from University of Illinois Extension, Unit 19, Lake Land College, Cumberland Elementary School, University of Illinois Extension, State 4-H Office and First Neighbor Bank.Read more

$3,000 Revolution of Responsibility Award Winner Harris County 4-H Family Science Night, Houston, Texas – 4-H National Youth Science Day inspired Harris County to form new 4-H Science partnerships that would build capacity for reaching youth audiences with exciting projects in science, engineering and technology. In September, Texas AgriLife Extension and Harris County 4-H Urban Youth Development (UYD) partnered with Alief Independent School District After School Program (ASP) to bring the Wired For Wind experiment to diverse youth audiences. Extension staff secured $1,500.00 in grant funds for the project from Texas 4-H Science Liaison, Matt Tarpley in support of a “family science night” event.

$3,000 Media and Promotion Award Winner WSU Colville Reservation-Ferry County 4-H – Intending to build a buzz about their 4-H Super Science Saturday event, Colville Reservation Extension 4-H initiated their promotion plan by sending press releases to four local newspapers. But, they didn’t stop there. They didn’t stop there: posters were printed in advance of the event and posted in local businesses and community bulletin boards. Handbills were sent home with students at area schools, an ad was displayed on the Ferry County Extension website and an email announcement was sent out to Colville Tribes employees across the reservation.

Stay tuned, we’ll announce the 2012 National Science Experiment in April! Can’t get enough of 4-H National Youth Science Day? Visit our Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/4-h for updates about 4-H science, scholarship opportunities and more.
- Ellen Butler

Dodgeball Tournament at State 4-H Conference

Please let all of your 4-H members know that we are going to have a District Dodge Ball Tournament at State Conference.  It is going to be a blast!!!!!  Click on this link for more information about the tournament. http://www.colorado4h.org/events_opportunities/stateconference/2012/DistrictDodgeBallTournament.pdf

Even the agents and leaders get to have a team.  So anyone who is going to State Conference and would like to be on the adult team –just let me know.    The tournament will be on Wednesday afternoon from 3:45 to 5:00pm.  So what do you say?!  Let’s have a great turn out for this great fun event.
- Connie Cecil

Great Opportunity for Young Women who will be in the 11th or 12th grade in 2012-2013

Vital Voices and ANN INC., the parent company of Ann Taylor and LOFT, have teamed up in a groundbreaking partnership, the ANNpower Vital Voices Initiative. Together, they are working to train and empower young women in the U.S. to invest in their communities and begin their journey as the next generation of leaders.

ANNpower Fellows will be invited to attend the ANNpower Vital Voices Leadership Forum, a three-day leadership training program in Washington, DC from June 4-6, 2012. The Forum’s curriculum will be based on the Vital Voices Leadership Model, and the girls will be mentored by 12 global women leaders who are part of the Vital Voices Global Leadership Network, which includes some of the most influential women from around the world. After completing the curriculum, the 50 ANNpower Fellows will be challenged to go back to their communities and create a project that will affect change at the local level. They will also be eligible later in the year to win project grants to put their ideas into action.

This is a unique opportunity for young women who are committed to reshaping the world for positive change to meet their peers from across the United States and be mentored by distinguished leaders. We invite you to share this information with outstanding rising high school juniors and seniors who you believe will be the next generation of global trailblazers. The application is available online here http://www.vitalvoices.org/annpower and you can read about the inaugural class of ANNpower Fellows here http://vitalvoices.org/annpower-2011. Please direct any questions to mailto:LaurenWollack@vitalvoices.org.

Applicant Eligibility:

*         Applicants must be enrolled in high school in the United States or Puerto Rico

*         Applicants must be enrolled in 11th or 12th grade for the 2012-2013 academic year

*         Applications must be received by March 31, 2012 at 5:00pm EST.

Daphna Kapnik Program Coordinator, Global Leadership Network Vital Voices Global Partnership

Web Conference:  A Focus on Building Military Family Resilience

The Family Development concentration of eXtension’s Military Families Learning Community invites you to participate in an interactive 60-minute web conference focused on resilience among military families.   Mark your calendars and plan to participate!  No registration is needed.

Balancing Work and Family:  A Focus on Building Military Family Resilience

Thursday, April 5 11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. (EDT)

Angela Wiley, Ph.D. Associate Professor of Applied Family Studies and Extension Specialist University of Illinois

Commander David Allen Shirk United States Navy Chaplain Camp Johnson, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina

• Attend this 60-minute web conference focused on work-life challenges facing military families • Learn about strategies that build on the strengths of military families that can effectively manage work-family issues • Share your experiences and ideas through this interactive session

No registration is needed To attend link to http://connect.extension.iastate.edu/milfam a few minutes before 11:00 a.m. (EDT)

Angela Wiley, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor in Human and Community Development and Extension Specialist in Family Life Education at the University of Illinois. Dr. Wiley’s research focuses on work life management, child care and promoting family resilience. She is interested in identifying how family strengths influence family resilience during stressful periods. Her research has been published in Family Relations and in Child Development.  Dr. Wiley has developed a curriculum to help people balance work and their personal lives.  She is currently conducting an evaluation of this curriculum focused on couple well-being.

Commander Shirk is currently assigned as the Officer in Charge, Chaplain and Religious Program Specialist Expeditionary Training Course at Camp Johnson.  He holds a Master’s of Divinity, M.A. in Child Development and Family Relation and B.S. in Business Administration, and is ordained by the Baptist General Conference. While based at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, Commander Shirk served in Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, Individual Augmentation with 82nd Airborne Division.

To avoid technical difficulties, please test your connection prior to April 5 at:  http://bit.ly/MFLNAdobeTest

Suggested reading to prepare for the web conference:

Drummet, A. R. (2003). Military families under stress: Implications for family life education. Family Relations, 52(3), 279-287. http://reachmilitaryfamilies.arizona.edu/sites/default/files/upload_material/Drummet,%20et%20al.%202003.pdf

- Shauna Woods

WFCO Girl’s Leadership Council Launch – Opportunity for Sophomore Girls

Skills to Pay the Bills: Mastering Soft Skills for Workplace Success

We would like to alert you to a new publication from the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Disability Employment Policy’s Youth team. “Skills to Pay the Bills: Mastering Soft Skills for Workplace Success” is a curriculum specifically designed for youth service professionals working with young people ages 14 to 24. The document was field-tested in seven career development youth programs across the country serving all youth, including youth with disabilities.   The basic structure of the publication was created through a lens of Universal Design, with a focus on providing flexible, hands-on, engaging activities that focus on six key skill areas: communication, enthusiasm and attitude, teamwork, networking, problem solving and critical thinking, and professionalism.   The curriculum is available in both English and Spanish on the ODEP website. The Office of Disability Employment Policy invites you to use this curriculum, forward it to your colleagues and/or membership base, and provide us with your feedback. Check this out:  http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2012/GirlsLeadershipCouncilFlyer.pdf  – Jennifer Kemp

Seeking Submissions for Directory of Successful Urban 4-H Programs

NAE4-HA Directory of Successful Urban 4-H Programs The Urban Programming Task Force of the NAE4-HA programs committee is coordinating the sharing of ideas through the Directory of Successful Urban 4-H Programs. The purpose of the directory is to provide 4-H professionals across the country ideas about successful 4-H programs in the urban environment—without having to “reinvent the wheel.” We plan to add more examples of these successful programs to this directory on an annual basis. The call for submissions to the directory is made twice a year. Directory Submission Forms are due: March 15th and August 15th.   New submissions have not been sought for the Directory since 2008, as we worked to move the directory onto the NAE4-HA website.  The Urban Programming Taskforce is excited to once again start collecting submissions.  The Directory of Successful Urban 4-H Programs can be found on the NAE4-HA website at: http://nae4ha.com/urbanprograms.htm  To reach the Directory from the NAE4-HA home page…highlight “Committees” on the left side bar, then scroll down and click on “Research, Evaluation & Programs Team.”  On the Research, Evaluation & Programs Team page, scroll down to Urban Programming and select the Directory of Successful Urban Programs.  We know you do good work in Urban Environments.  Please consider submitting your good work into the Directory of Successful Urban 4-H Programs.  For more information about the directory or the submission process, contact Paul Henderson at West Virginia State University Extension Service at henderpm@wvstateu.edu or by phone at 304.550.4210.
- Ellen Butler

4-H Update

Volume 15, Number 4

Dates to Remember:

* May 30: University holiday, offices closed
* June 3: Colorado 4-H Foundation 16th Annual Paul Hoshiko Golf Tournament, Windsor, CO
* June 15: National 4-H Conference applications due, State 4-H Office
* June 15: National 4-H Congress recommendations due, State 4-H Office
* June 15:  Youth Leadership and Citizenship applications due, State 4-H Office
* June 17:  Shooting Sports Family Camp, Victor, CO
* June 20-24: State 4-H Conference, CSU Campus, Fort Collins
* June 25 – July 2: Citizenship Washington Focus, Washington, DC

Daniels Fund Scholarship awardees announced!

We are excited to announce this year’s class of Daniels Scholars. As a community-based scholarship program, the Daniels Fund works closely with over 600 Referral Agencies that nominated some 2050 candidates this year. We sincerely wish that we could have provided scholarships to each one of these outstanding young people, but this simply is not possible.

A complete list of all scholarship recipients is posted on the Daniels Fund website, http://www.danielsfund.org/. 

Thank you for all that you do to help encourage and support students applying for the Daniels Scholarship. We are grateful to you for helping us further Bill Daniels’ mission of ‘making life better…one individual at a time.’

Congratulations to you all! – Ellen Butler

Colten Karl Rohleder, Elbert County
Eleanor Marie Stewart, Phillips County
Jordan John Sharpe, Baca County
Lexie Kate Hoskins, Otero County

2011 4-H Japanese Exchange

Below is  a program description for the one-month inbound Japanese exchange.  Japan is planning to send the planned delegation to Colorado.  Please promote this program in your county.  This is one important way we can support the people of Japan in the aftermath of the tragedies which have occurred in the last week.

4-H/JAPANESE EXCHANGE – HOST FAMILIES NEEDED – ONE MONTH

Japanese families need our support more than ever this year in the wake of the recent tragedies which have occurred in Japan.  All three Japanese organizations have reported that they are sending exchangees to the United States during the summer of 2011.

Host families are needed for 65 inbound Japanese boys and girls, ages 12-21, coming to Colorado through the 2011 inbound Colorado-Japan Teen Exchange.  Hosting dates are July 23 – August 18. 

This program is coordinated through Colorado State University and has been running since 1975.

Host families do not need to be a member of 4-H and may reside in urban, suburban, or rural settings throughout Colorado.  They may share a room with their host sibling.  Matches are made on the basis of same sex and close in age, as well as some common interests.  Note:  Host siblings may be as young as nine to match with a 12 year old Japanese participant.

All participants are 100 percent medically covered with 4-H insurance and may participate in host family vacations, camping trips, youth camps.  They are expected to become part of the family, including attending church, helping with household chores, following house rules, and participating in other aspects of US daily life.  The program covers costs for the exchange.  Each participant has his/her own spending money.

Japanese participants will attend an orientation in Denver before going to host families and a debriefing in Denver before returning to Japan. Carpools are planned to transport delegates to homes if host families are not able to pick up or return their exchange student.  Orientation for host families is done in Denver.  In addition, there will be a host family orientation in the Montrose/Grand Junction/Delta area.

Host siblings have the option of traveling to Japan to participate in a four or seven-week exchange while staying with Japanese host families and learning Japanese culture.

HOST FAMILIES NEEDED – 4-H/FLEX EXCHANGE (10 MONTHS) – 2011-2012

Host families are needed for FLEX (Future Leaders Exchange) students. This program is funded by the U.S. State Department to instill democratic principles in exchange participants from the New Independent States (NIS) of the former Soviet Union (now called Eurasia): Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Ukraine and Uzbekistan.  Colorado will host five participants, ages 15-18, who will stay with host families and attend high school August 2011 through mid- June 2012.

These delegates are proficient in English, have excellent grades, and speak a minimum of three languages.
They are excited to learn about the United States and share their culture.  Colorado schools have been very receptive to this program due to the high quality of the delegate applications.  55,000 youth apply from these Eurasian countries every year.  1,200 youth are chosen annually to spend 10 months in the United States. 

Since 1993, several thousand students from the NIS have spent one academic year attending schools and living with host families throughout the U.S.  Students are recruited based on English ability, personality factors, social skills, academic achievement and leadership potential.  Prospective students participate in an open, merit-based competition in their home countries and are interviewed by Americans who live in the NIS and work for the American Council of Teachers of Russian.  All students have an extensive orientation to life in America and pursue a full course of study while they are here.  Each country has its own language, culture, history and traditions.  Students and staff where exchange students attend school benefit from learning more about these countries and peoples who were relatively isolated from the rest of the world for nearly 70 years. 

Delegates receive $125/month for personal expenses.  Host families receive $300 initially to assist with “startup” costs.

They are expected to be part of the family:  sharing their culture, learning about the US culture, following house rules, getting good grades in school, helping with household chores, etc.

To review the applications of the delegates available, please contact me for further information.

2011 INBOUND IFYES TO COLORADO – HOST FAMILIES NEEDED

Austria, Daniela Allram, age 19 – July 11 – August 22.  Speaks German, English, and French.  Hobbies are photography, cooking, volunteer fire fighter, and Landjugen (4-H) activities.  Other areas of interest are arts, information technology, and biology.  Father owns a transport company, and mother is an office worker.  She is current attending a higher vocational school.

Germany, Charlotte Schweikart, age 19 – June 20 – September 10.  Speaks German, English, and some French.  Hobbies are friends, yoga, badminton, card and board games, music, reading, and skiing.  Other areas of interest are learning about American culture/people, as well as agriculture in the US.   She is a youth group advisor.   Parents own a winery/30-acre vineyard.  She graduated from school in March and expects to attend a university.

Greece, Katerina  Arzoglou, age 18 – July 12 – August 18.  Speaks Greek and English.  Hobbies are camping, swimming, dancing, walking reading, pets.  Other areas of interest are youth development, agriculture, environment, recreation, culture, horses, landscaping, production of various plants, and animal production.   Father is a plant producer, and mother is a salesperson.  She is currently attending the American Farm School in Greece.

Switzerland, Karin Bartsch, age 20 – June 20 – September 10.  Speaks German and English.  Hobbies are riding horses, walking, and skiing.  Other areas of interest are farming and agriculture.  Parents operate a farm with milk cows.  She is currently a retail assistant and hopes to take over her parents’ farm in the future.

Taiwan, You-Ren Fang (Joyce), age 22.  Speaks Chinese and English.  Hobbies are jazz, classical music, reading.  Other areas of interest are agriculture, agriculture economics and policy, environment, youth development.  She is a 4-H club leader/consultant.  Parents are business owners.  She is currently studying bio-industry communication/development at National Taiwan University.

Inbound IFYEs from Germany, Switzerland, and Taiwan will attend National IFYE Orientation in Wichita, Kansas, prior to arriving in Colorado.  They will also attend State 4-H Conference at CSU June 20-24.

IFYEs generally stay with a host family for two-three weeks.  The goal is for these exchange participants to learn about everyday life in the United States by participating in the homestay experience.  All delegates have medical insurance and personal spending money.

Please contact me at the State 4-H Office for more information regarding these IFYEs; 970-491-2711, Courtney.loflin@colostate.edu
- Courtney Loflin, Colorado 4-H International Programs Coordinator

THE GREATEST SUCCESS OCCURS WHEN FAMILIES TREAT THE DELEGATES AS A MEMBER OF THE FAMILY, RATHER THAN A “GUEST.”

Broomfield County 4-H member Selected for Mongolian Exchange Trip! 

Caitlin Lanzavecchia will be traveling to Mongolia this summer on a Wyoming exchange trip. Selections were based on a written application and also through an interview process. Please read below for further information.

Thirty youth will visit Mongolia through Wyoming 4-H leadership program.

Wyoming State 4-H specialists will shepherd 30 youth and five adult chaperones from eight states to Mongolia this summer in a leadership partnership with the Mongolian 4-H Youth Organization.

Enhancing Global Perspectives in Youth is funded by a $267,434 grant from the United States Department of State Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs and administered by the University of Wyoming Cooperative Extension Service. The Mongolian group is in the country’s capital, Ulaanbaatar.

The group will leave June 16 and return July 15.

“The program will provide an opportunity for students to experience firsthand knowledge of foreign cultures and to collaborate on solving global natural resource and environmental issues,” said Warren Crawford, youth development specialist with Wyoming 4-H.  

Kim Reaman, state 4-H volunteer management specialist, will also accompany the group.

 “This type of experience can be life changing and start a young person down the path to being an involved, global citizen,” she said. “My first international experience was through the International 4-H Youth Exchange to Jamaica. I have had a heart for international programs and the effect they have on a young person’s life ever since. ”

Youth were selected through an application and interview process from the 13-state western region of the land-grant universities Cooperative Extension Service. The finalists selected are from Alaska, Colorado, Idaho, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Wyoming.

Reaman and Crawford traveled to Mongolia last September, paid for by the UW College of Agriculture and Natural Resources Global Perspectives program, to provide technical assistance and training for the newly established Mongolian 4-H program.  While in Mongolia, they had many opportunities to develop and lay the groundwork for this exchange program.

“For most of the stay, the students will live with a Mongolian host family and experience the Mongolian way of life,” said Crawford. “While we are there, we will be learning about environmental issues such as renewable energy, water quality and land restoration and reclamation.”

Youth will also participate in community service projects in and around the capital city of Ulaanbaatar.

Participants and their hometowns are:

Alaska – Mariah McCoy, Chugiak; Kira O’Donoghue, Fairbanks; Peter Stortz, adult chaperone, Palmer
Arizona – Christine Mackey, Anik Regan, Tucson
Colorado – Caitlin Lanzavecchia, Broomfield
Idaho – Molly Myers, Boise; Jeannine Sampo and Killian Sampo, Lowman
Oregon – Emily Cackler, Buxton; Nicholas Morales, Medford; Erynne van Zee, Michael Boggess, Samuel Greydanus, Corvallis; Jaden Bales, Imbler; Shelby Worthing, Prineville; Zachary Lauritzen, adult chaperone, Corvallis
Utah – Alexis Schmid, Sandy; Jenessa Gosar, Manila; Z. Quinn Chandler, Ogden; Alicia Christensen, adult chaperone, Salt Lake City
Washington – Miranda Bean, Ridgefield
Wyoming – Jed Christensen, Alta; Melanie Whitmore, Bear River; Wyatt Slagowski, Farson; Rebel Rauterkus, Freedom; Elizabeth Barlow, Gillette; Jessica Grant, Glenrock; Alanna Elder, Rebecca Garner, Laramie; Kristy Armstrong, Lyman; Thomas Shaffer, Pinedale; Zachery Anderson, Thermopolis; Kelly Barlow, adult chaperone, Gillette; Erin Sinclair, adult chaperone, Cheyenne

Congratulations Caitlin!
- Ellen Butler

Award Applications Due

I just wanted to remind all of you about the two awards that the State 4-H Officer sponsor and present at State Conference.  The State 4-H Officer Team is proud to announce that the Outstanding 4-H Leader Award will now be known as the Raleigh Brooks Outstanding Leader Award.  Raleigh will present this award at State Conference.  The outstanding youth award is now the Mile High Outstanding
4-H Youth Leader Award. 

http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/4-HSenateOutstandingAdultLeaderNominationForm.doc
http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/4-HSenateOutstandingAdultLeaderNominationForm.pdf
http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/4-HSenateOutstandingYouthLeaderNominationForm.doc
http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/4-HSenateOutstandingYouthLeaderNominationForm.pdf
http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/MileHighAwardPoster.pdf
http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/WantedPoster-RaleighBrooks.pdf

There are two posters advertising these awards.  The nomination forms are due back to that state 4-H office by June 1^st.

Please honor those hard working volunteer 4-H adult and youth leaders in your county by nominating them for these two awards.
- Connie Cecil

 4-H Social Media Training

Social Media Training – Webinar Series
Join National 4-H Council for its premiere 4-H Social Media webinar series on Wednesdays in May and June.

These interactive and instructive 45-minute tutorials will help you develop social media strategies that create platforms that are engaging, interactive, safe and effective. Built for those who are new to social media, as well as advanced users, this series will help you harness the power of Facebook and Twitter to communicate with a variety of audiences. You’ll learn how to generate content, build community, increase participation and how to do it all in a safe manner for youth and adults alike.

To attend, RSVP to individual sessions in the social media webinar series; we will reply with instructions on how to join the webinar. 

Questions? Contact Ashley Lusk at 4Hmarketing@4-H.org 

- Basic Users

Content Generation- Wednesday, June 1, 2011, 2PM  EST
Generating content can be easy when you use the incredible resources of the 4-H Community. Learn how to build an editorial calendar, schedule your updates in advance using tools like Hootsuite, and how to use eXtension to collect general content for your social media outlets.

- Advanced Users

Online Safety Best Practices-  - Wednesday, June 8, 2011, 2 PM  EST
The best way to build a 4-H network is to create a secure online community for both adults and youth. Social media experts will provide you with an outline of best practices for adult volunteers who may be interacting with youth online, as well as a series of recommended privacy settings to keep youth and adults safe on your pages.

Measuring your Impact- Wednesday,  June 15, 2011, 2 PM  EST
Make sure your efforts are generating the maximum impact. Discover a series of free metric systems including Facebook Insights, Hootsuite and more.

- Connie Cecil

Rocky Mountain Adventure Camp for Military Teens 14-18 FREE!

Attached is a newly revised brochure for the five Rocky Mountain Camps for military teens ages 14-18. This is a $450 experience and free to military teens. Transportation is provided too. This camp is for youth who have a family member active duty, retired National Guard and Reserves or someone in their family who are military, like a brother, sister or uncle. We need your help in getting the word out to the youth as soon as possible – we are not filled up yet!!!  http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/RockyMountainAdventureCampBrochure.pdf

Shauna Vail Woods, OMK Program Coordinator – Colorado Military Liaison
Operation: Military Kids

4-H Conference Center DC Tours Accepted by NASSP

Big News! Our Wonders of Washington (WOW) http://www.wowwashington.org/trip/? DC tour program has been accepted by the National Association of Secondary School Principals for the National Advisory List of Student Contests and Activities for 2011-2012.

The purpose of the National Advisory List is to provide information regarding a wide variety of student program opportunities. The Committee reviews all programs based on NASSP developed standards in the following areas: educational, financial, organizational, promotional, adjudication and awards. Programs that, in the opinion of the Committee, meet the guidelines are placed on the National Advisory List.

For over 15 years the WOW program has helped students experience the living classroom of Washington DC while also taking the burden of trip planning off teachers and administrators. Combining DC tours with educational workshops, WOW brings history and government to life for students in grades 6-12.  For more information on the program visit the Wonders of Washington homepage or contact a member of our sales team!

- The Sales & Planning Team, National 4-H Youth Conference Center

2011 National Science Experiment

Announcing the 2011 National Science Experiment: Wired for Wind!

4-H National Headquarters and National 4-H Council are pleased to reveal that the 2011 National Science Experiment is Wired for Wind, an in-depth look at renewable energy technologies in the form of wind-power. Developed by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and the University of Nebraska Cooperative Extension program, this three-tiered experiment will help 4-H young people to enhance their science, engineering, technology and applied math skills by allowing them to:

• Design, build and test two different wind turbine models,
• Experiment with variables by examining three different blade pitch angles to determine the effect of pitch on rotor speed,
• Relate their scientific experiences back to their own lives by determining how their communities can harness the power of wind and create a more sustainable and clean energy system, and
• Determine the best location for a potential wind farm in their state or local area by calculating wind power and studying wind data and maps.

This year, 4-H National Youth Science Day will take place on October 5, 2011. On this day, hundreds of thousands of young people across the United States and the world will simultaneously become scientists for a day as they connect important scientific lessons to civic engagement.

4-H youth are a living, breathing, culture-changing movement for doing the right thing, breaking through obstacles and pushing the country forward to successfully face the challenges of the future. Participation in 4-H National Youth Science Day is meant to help spark an early passion for science, engineering and math and to encourage young people to consider these paths of study and future careers.

To learn more about 4-H National Youth Science Day, how you can participate locally or to download program materials, go to www.4-H.org/NYSD

4-H Update

Volume 15, Number 4

Dates to Remember:

* April 12-14: CAE4-HA, Glenwood Springs
* April 14-17: National 4-H Collegiate Conference, Atlanta, GA
* May 1:  4HOnline Youth Enrollment data due
* May 7-14: Western Regional Leaders Forum, Seattle, WA
* May 15:  Host families applications due, State 4-H Office
* May 30:  University holiday, offices closed

Rodeo China Announcement!

The Colorado 4-H program has been asked to take part in an effort to introduce the people of China to the culture of the American West through the art and science of rodeo. In October 2011, an eight-day PRCA rodeo will be held in Beijing, China, at the Bird’s Nest (site of the 2008 Olympic Games).
The Colorado 4-H Program, Colorado FFA, and the National Little Britches Rodeo Association (NLBRA) have been asked to provide youth to travel to China to teach Chinese youth in this effort. The youth component of this project will directly involve American youth teaching rodeo events and livestock handling principles to approximately 3,000 Chinese youth.

Twenty-five Colorado 4-H members will be selected to travel to China on this expense-paid opportunity. 4-H members must be 15 years-of-age or older as of October 1, 2011, to participate in this unique event. Ten adult chaperons will also be selected to assist and travel with the Colorado 4-H Rodeo China team. We are seeking 4-H members and chaperons with the following characteristics:
• Ability to work well in teams
• Interest and/or experience in working with diverse cultures
• Hard working with a positive attitude
• Rodeo and/or livestock experience
Applications are due to the Colorado State 4-H Office by May 15, 2011. The Colorado 4-H Rodeo China team selections will be announced on June 23, during the 2011 Colorado State 4-H Conference being held on the Colorado State University campus in Fort Collins.

Additional information and applications for 4-H members and chaperons can be found at: http://www.colorado4h.org/rodeochina

Rodeo China has a website with basic information at:  www.rodeochina.com

For more information contact Jeff Goodwin at 970.491.6422 or jeff.goodwin@colostate.edu

Please call if you have questions!

2011 4-H Japanese Exchange

Below is  a program description for the one-month inbound Japanese exchange. In spite of the recent disaster in Japan, they are still planning to send a delegation to Colorado.  Please promote this program in your county.  This is one important way we can support the people of Japan in the aftermath of the tragedies which have occurred in the last week.

March 18, 2011: 4-H/JAPANESE EXCHANGE – HOST FAMILIES NEEDED – ONE MONTH

Japanese families need our support more than ever this year in the wake of the recent tragedies which have occurred in Japan.  All three Japanese organizations have reported that they are sending exchangees to the United States during the summer of 2011.

Host families are needed for 65 inbound Japanese boys and girls, ages 12-21, coming to Colorado through the 2011 inbound Colorado-Japan Teen Exchange.  Hosting dates are July 23 – August 18.

This program is coordinated through Colorado State University and has been running since 1975.

Host families do not need to be a member of 4-H and may reside in urban, suburban, or rural settings throughout Colorado.  They may share a room with their host sibling.  Matches are made on the basis of same sex and close in age, as well as some common interests.  Note:  Host siblings may be as young as nine to match with a 12 year old Japanese participant.

All participants are 100 percent medically covered with 4-H insurance and may participate in host family vacations, camping trips, youth camps.  They are expected to become part of the family, including attending church, helping with household chores, following house rules, and participating in other aspects of US daily life.  The program covers costs for the exchange.  Each participant has his/her own spending money.

Japanese participants will attend an orientation in Denver before going to host families and a debriefing in Denver before returning to Japan. Carpools are planned to transport delegates to homes if host families are not able to pick up or return their exchange student.  Orientation for host families is done in Denver.  In addition, there will be a host family orientation in the Montrose/Grand Junction/Delta area.

Host siblings have the option of traveling to Japan to participate in a four or seven-week exchange while staying with Japanese host families and learning Japanese culture.

THE GREATEST SUCCESS OCCURS WHEN FAMILIES TREAT THE DELEGATES AS A MEMBER OF THE FAMILY, RATHER THAN A “GUEST.”
Courtney Loflin, E-mail:  Courtney.loflin@colostate.edu, or call 970.491.2711.

- Ellen Butler

Save Money Shopping and Raise Funds for 4-H

Yes, this can be done with the My Shopping Genie computer program.  The Colorado 4-H Foundation is partnering with My Net Universe to offer this opportunity for Colorado 4-H families and friends.

To use the program go to the Colorado 4-H Foundation web site http://www.co4hfoundation.colostate.edu/shopping.shtml and follow the directions for installing the program.  After the program is installed, each time a search engine (Google, Yahoo, Bing, etc) is used the 4-H Foundation Logo will appear in the lower left hand corner.  Several store names and the words compare, map and deals are also displayed.  Each time a store names or the word “compare” are clicked the best item prices are displayed and the 4-H Foundation receives a small donation.

For more information contact Gary Small at (970)491-1537 or gary.small@colostate.edu Thank you for supporting the Colorado 4-H program.
- Gary Small

Arbor Day Poster Contest 2011

Please click on the links provided for more information about the 2011 Arbor Day Poster Contest!

http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/2011-PosterContestMediaRelease.pdf

http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/2011-COArborDayPosterContestRules.pdf

- Ellen Butler

100,000 4-H Members Expected to Complete the Presidential Active Lifestyle Award Challenge

WASHINGTON, April 5, 2011 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is making a significant commitment to participating in the Presidential Active Lifestyle Award challenge, aiming to have 100,000 4-H members complete the challenge by September 2011. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack spoke today to 300 children and adults at the 2011 National 4-H Conference in Chevy Chase, Md. He recognized the positive influence 4-H membership and programs have in communities throughout the country and encouraged all attendees to make healthy choices.

“Healthy living has been a fundamental principle of 4-H as members ‘pledge their health to better living,’” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “USDA has long been committed to nutrition and healthy living, and I’m looking forward to seeing many 4-H’ers helping us meet – or exceed – our goal. As tomorrow’s leaders, 4-H members have an important role to play in winning the future, starting with a commitment to healthy living.”

4-H strives to equip young people with the knowledge and skills for healthy living that will prepare them physically, emotionally and socially to meet the challenges of the 21st century. 4-H initially committed to this goal during the November 29, 2010, roll-out of the Let’s Move! Faith and Communities Initiative led by First Lady Michelle Obama.

4-H is making this goal a top priority. National 4-H Council and Kraft Foods are offering incentives for each county that sponsors 4-H to encourage local young people to pursue the award. Additionally, during April and May, employees from USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), the parent organization to 4-H National Headquarters, will participate with 4-H members, families and volunteers.

The Presidential Active Lifestyle Award recognizes those who log their recommended physical activity for six consecutive weeks, five days a week (60 minutes for kids, 30 minutes for adults). More information about the program and how to get involved is available at http://www.presidentschallenge.org/natl4-H. Let’s Move! is the First Lady’s initiative to solve the challenge of childhood obesity within a generation. Let’s Move! Faith and Communities is designed to support local efforts and highlight accomplishments in communities across the country. The program looks to work with community leaders, learn from what they are doing in neighborhoods, and share those efforts as broadly as possible.

4-H National Headquarters seeks to promote positive youth development, facilitate learning and engage young people with the efforts of USDA and the land-grant universities to enhance quality of life. Nearly 6 million young people, ages 5-19, participate in 4-H youth development programs in all 50 states, territories and military installations worldwide.  More information is available at www.national4-hheadquarters.gov.      

Through federal funding and leadership for research, education and extension programs, USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture focuses on investing in science and solving critical issues impacting people’s daily lives and the nation’s future. More information is available at: www.nifa.usda.gov.

http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/4H-PALA-FAQ.pdf
http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/GroupAdminSheet.pdf
http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/Million-PALA-ChallengeCertificate.pdf
http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/PALA-SimpleFlyer.pdf
http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/PALA-ChallengeInternational.pdf
http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/PALA-ChallengeOutside.pdf
http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/PALA-KraftPromotionReport.pdf
http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/ParticipantInfoSheet.pdf
http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/TheMillionPALAChallengeFAQ.pdf

- Ellen Butler

2011 Cowboy Camp 

Every year young horse enthusiasts travel to Fort Collins, Colorado to spend five days at the Colorado State University (CSU) Summer Youth Horsemanship Camp.  The camp is designed to be both an educational and fun experience for youth.  English and Western disciplines are available and are taught by CSU faculty and students.  Each day the campers will experience a combination of riding lessons and lectures on topics such as safety, grooming, nutrition, and horse behavior.  Ice-breakers and additional interactive activities, like swimming and crafts, are also included in the camp.

Two sessions are offered every June (Session One: June 13-18 , 2011 & Session Two: June 19-24, 2011).  Most campers  (restricted to ages 10-15) overnight at the CSU dormitories supervised by counselors.   Meals, transportation, and horse boarding are included for overnight campers. An additional day camp has been made available to campers aged 10-18 who would prefer to drive in each day and make their own accommodation arrangements.  Campers are encouraged to bring their own horses and approximately six CSU horses are available to lease.  Campers should have previous horse experience before attending this camp.

Detailed camp information, including logistics and payment details, are available at www.csuequine.com.  Inquiries and registration forms can be sent to megan.grieve@colostate.edu.   We’re looking forward to another great camp this year… One filled with great horses, good kids, and a ton of memories!

Click on http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/2011-CowboyCamp.pdf for further information.

4-H Judging Contests

Elbert County’s Eastern Slope Judging Contests are coming up.
Please forward the entry forms to your judging team coaches.

Eastern Slope Judging Contests

• Livestock Judging Contest on May 7

• Horse Judging Contest on May 14

• Rabbit Judging Contest on June 18

Click on these links for further information:

http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/2011-ES-RabbitEntryForms.pdf
http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/2011-ES-HorseJudgingEntry.pdf
http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/2011-ES-LivestockEntry.pdf

4-H Update

Volume 15, Number 3

Dates to Remember:

* April 1:  State Scholarship applications due
* April 2-7: National 4-H Conference, National 4-H Center, Chevy Chase, MD
* April 12-14: CAE4-HA, Glenwood Springs
* April 14-17: National 4-H Collegiate Conference, Atlanta, GA
* May 1:  4HOnline Youth Enrollment data due

Rodeo China Announcement!

The Colorado 4-H program has been asked to take part in an effort to introduce the people of China to the culture of the American West through the art and science of rodeo. In October 2011, an eight-day PRCA rodeo will be held in Beijing, China, at the Bird’s Nest (site of the 2008 Olympic Games).

The Colorado 4-H Program, Colorado FFA, and the National Little Britches Rodeo Association (NLBRA) have been asked to provide youth to travel to China to teach Chinese youth in this effort. The youth component of this project will directly involve American youth teaching rodeo events and livestock handling principles to approximately 3,000 Chinese youth.

Twenty-five Colorado 4-H members will be selected to travel to China on this expense-paid opportunity. 4-H members must be 15 years-of-age or older as of October 1, 2011, to participate in this unique event. Ten adult chaperons will also be selected to assist and travel with the Colorado 4-H Rodeo China team. We are seeking 4-H members and chaperons with the following characteristics:
•    Ability to work well in teams
•    Interest and/or experience in working with diverse cultures
•    Hard working with a positive attitude
•    Rodeo and/or livestock experience

Applications are due to the Colorado State 4-H Office by May 15, 2011. The Colorado 4-H Rodeo China team selections will be announced on June 23, during the 2011 Colorado State 4-H Conference being held on the Colorado State University campus in Fort Collins.

Additional information and applications for 4-H members and chaperons can be found at: http://www.colorado4h.org/rodeochina

Rodeo China has a website with basic information at:  www.rodeochina.com

For more information contact Jeff Goodwin at 970.491.6422.
- Ellen Butler

4-H Night at the Nuggets

4-H Nights at the Nuggets is Saturday, April 9.  Please be sure to go to the website below to order your tickets. The Nuggets are on a winning streak right now, so this would be a great time to see them!

Remember, this is a contest for the 4-H Districts and that is the only way that we can make your tickets count.  This is what the count looks like so far:  District 11- 22 tickets, District 3- 6 tickets, District 13- 4 tickets.  So get out there and promote your district and make your ticket sales count!

http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/4hNightNuggets.pdf
- Connie Cecil

2011 4-H Japanese Exchange

Below is  a program description for the one-month inbound Japanese exchange. In spite of the recent disaster in Japan, they are still planning to send a delegation to Colorado.  Please promote this program in your county.  This is one important way we can support the people of Japan in the aftermath of the tragedies which have occurred in the last week.

March 18, 2011: 4-H/JAPANESE EXCHANGE – HOST FAMILIES NEEDED – ONE MONTH

Japanese families need our support more than ever this year in the wake of the recent tragedies which have occurred in Japan.  All three Japanese organizations have reported that they are sending exchangees to the United States during the summer of 2011.

Host families are needed for 65 inbound Japanese boys and girls, ages 12-21, coming to Colorado through the 2011 inbound Colorado-Japan Teen Exchange.  Hosting dates are July 23 – August 18.

This program is coordinated through Colorado State University and has been running since 1975.

Host families do not need to be a member of 4-H and may reside in urban, suburban, or rural settings throughout Colorado.  They may share a room with their host sibling.  Matches are made on the basis of same sex and close in age, as well as some common interests.  Note:  Host siblings may be as young as nine to match with a 12 year old Japanese participant.

All participants are 100 percent medically covered with 4-H insurance and may participate in host family vacations, camping trips, youth camps.  They are expected to become part of the family, including attending church, helping with household chores, following house rules, and participating in other aspects of US daily life.  The program covers costs for the exchange.  Each participant has his/her own spending money.

Japanese participants will attend an orientation in Denver before going to host families and a debriefing in Denver before returning to Japan. Carpools are planned to transport delegates to homes if host families are not able to pick up or return their exchange student.  Orientation for host families is done in Denver.  In addition, there will be a host family orientation in the Montrose/Grand Junction/Delta area.

Host siblings have the option of traveling to Japan to participate in a four or seven-week exchange while staying with Japanese host families and learning Japanese culture.

THE GREATEST SUCCESS OCCURS WHEN FAMILIES TREAT THE DELEGATES AS A MEMBER OF THE FAMILY, RATHER THAN A “GUEST.”
Courtney Loflin, E-mail:  Courtney.loflin@colostate.edu, or call 970.491.2711.

- Ellen Butler

Save Money Shopping and Raise Funds for 4-H

Yes, this can be done with the My Shopping Genie computer program.  The Colorado 4-H Foundation is partnering with My Net Universe to offer this opportunity for Colorado 4-H families and friends.

To use the program go to the Colorado 4-H Foundation web site http://www.co4hfoundation.colostate.edu/shopping.shtml and follow the directions for installing the program.  After the program is installed, each time a search engine (Google, Yahoo, Bing, etc) is used the 4-H Foundation Logo will appear in the lower left hand corner.  Several store names and the words compare, map and deals are also displayed.  Each time a store names or the word “compare” are clicked the best item prices are displayed and the 4-H Foundation receives a small donation.

For more information contact Gary Small at (970)491-1537 or gary.small@colostate.edu Thank you for supporting the Colorado 4-H program.
- Gary Small

4-H Foundation Scholarship Applications due April 1

The Colorado 4-H Foundation 2011 scholarship application forms must be emailed to bill.gargan@colostate.edu by April 1.  Supporting documents (letters of recommendation and grade transcripts) can be emailed to the same address or sent to: Colorado 4-H Foundation, 4040 Campus Delivery, Fort Collins, CO, 80523-4040.

Each year the Foundation awards 12 scholarships worth over $10,000 to help Colorado 4-H members continue their educations.  Three scholarships are available for any field of study and any institution of higher learning, while others specify majors and schools. Please go to the following website address http://www.co4hfoundation.colostate.edu/scholarships.shtml to see the specific criteria for each scholarship.  For more information contact Bill Gargan at 970.491.2768, bill.gargan@colostate.edu or Gary Small at 970.491.1537, gary.small@colostate.edu.
- Gary Small

Logan County 4-H Position Available

Logan County Extension Office (county-funded position) is seeking to hire a full-time 4-H/youth professional.  Horticulture background and experience desirable.  Apply by April 1, 2011.  To see the full job description and obtain an application go to www.logancountyco.gov.

Click on this link for the position announcement:  http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/YouthHorticulturePosition.pdf�
- Ellen Butler

Livestock for Small Acres Webinar Series Free!

Handling Cattle and Other Livestock Webinar March 28, 2011 Noon-1:00 pm MST

Join Temple Grandin, the most influential autistic person in the world, as she discusses animal behavior and handling techniques.  Temple’s professional training  as an animal scientist and her history as a person with autism, gives her a unique perspective on understanding animal behavior.  She will talk about what frightens and distracts animals, offer pointers on fixing small or large handling facilities, how to be safe with bulls, and discuss her insight on animal behavior.  Presented by Dr. Temple Grandin, Professor of Animal Science at CSU, and author of many books including, “Animals In Translation.”

Small Scale Cattle Production Webinar
May 18, 2011
Noon-1:00 pm MST

This introductory course is geared toward small-scale operations and homesteaders. Learn about the various options for beef and dairy production.  We will discuss pros and cons, costs, management needs, challenges, marketing, and more.  Presented by Jason Ahola, CSU Animal Science Associate Professor .

Raising Sheep and Goats Webinar
August 11, 2011
Noon-1:00 pm MST

Basic goat and sheep management will be discussed in this webinar geared for landowners who just started or who are interested in getting started with raising sheep or goats.  Participants will learn about feed and nutrition, health concerns, daily care, costs, housing, and products that sheep and goats produce.  Dr. Nancy Irlbeck, Associate Dean of Academic Affairs for College of Agricultural Sciences at CSU, will present this webinar.

Webinars on Pigs, Poultry and Chickens, and Llamas and Alpacas will be announced soon!

Please click on this link for further information:  http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/LivestockWebinarSeriesFlyer.pdf

For more information and to register for a webinar contact Jennifer Cook at 303.659.7004 ext.3 or email jennifer.cook@colostate.edu.
- Ellen Butler

National 4-H Dairy Conference

Below are two links for initial information regarding the 2011 National 4-H Dairy Conference (NDC).  We would like as many people as possible to be aware of, and have the chance to participate in, this educational, hands-on experience.

Please note that the first response is for a projected number of participants and for the contact information for your state/province contact person.

Information on the National 4-H Dairy Conference can also be found on-line at http://www.uwex.edu/ces/4h/events/dairyconf/index.cfm.

http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/National4hDairyConferece-57th.pdf

http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/National4hDairyConferece-Form.doc

Due to scheduling conflicts,  the materials were not sent out in February.  Thus, the response deadline has been extended to April 15, 2011. I apologize for any inconvenience this later mailing may cause you. For further information please contact Peter J. Nordin, 608-262-0575, or email peter.nordin@ces.uwex.edu
- Ellen Butler

2011 Arbor Day Poster Contest 2011

Please click on the links provided below for more information on the 2011 Arbor Day Poster Contest!

http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/2011-PosterContestMediaRelease.pdf

http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2011/2011-COArborDayPosterContestRules.pdf

- Ellen Butler

4-H Update (Vol 14, #18)

Volume 14, Number 18

Dates to Remember:
* Nov. 25-26: Univeristy holidays, offices closed
* Nov. 26-30: National 4-H Congress, Atlanta, GA
* Dec. 1:  Catch-A-Calf applications due
* Dec. 13:  Colorado 4-H Board meeting, CSU
* Dec. 22-24: University holidays, offices closed
* Dec. 31: University holiday, offices closed

IRS Update – Information needed for 4-H Tax Exempt Status

We have been responding to changes in the tax exempt status of 4-H organizations for the past three years. We now have to plan for the end of the national 4-H IRS Group Exemption Number (GEN) and must collect current information on 4-H clubs and affiliated organizations. Our present plan is for the Colorado 4-H Foundation to pursue tax exempt status under 501(c)(3) regulations and apply for a group exemption number for our clubs and affiliates.

What does “tax exempt status” mean? It means that groups do not have to pay FEDERAL income tax. It also means that donors to organizations that are listed as tax exempt may claim their donation as a charitable contribution and claim a deduction on their federal income tax. It has nothing to do with sales tax exemptions.

What groups qualify to be on the new Colorado 4-H GEN and how?

1. Recognized 4-H “entities” who have charters. Chartered organizations are those that we (CSU Extension, 4-H Youth Development) accept responsibility for and who are accountable and compliant with all our policies. These include all of our 4-H clubs, Collegiate 4-H, county 4-H councils, junior leader clubs, etc. If any of these groups are not chartered in your county they should be.
2. Affiliated organizations may be included which a) provide support to 4-H, b) are under our control and supervision, c) are not separately organized (such as foundations with their own 501(c)(3) status), and d) have a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Extension. These would include CAE4-HA, Colorado 4-H Leader’s Council, county 4-H foundations which are not separately organized, county 4-H events, etc.

The bottom line: every organization on our group list needs to be chartered or have an MOU with Extension. No charter or no MOU = no listing under the new GEN.

What groups should not be included on the new GEN?

1.         Organizations currently listed that appear to be county fair livestock sale committees.

2.         “Organizations” that appear to be no more than a checking account for a particular purpose.

3.         Separately organized county 4-H foundations with their own 501(c)(3) status. However, these separately organized groups should still have an MOU with Extension if they use the 4-H name and emblem.

There have been sale committees inappropriately listed on the GEN in the past. Why is this a problem? Sale committees are (or should be) part of county fair management and under control of county government, and not a part of 4-H. They are not under our control. The money spent on purchasing livestock is NOT a charitable contribution to 4-H and is not tax deductible for the purchaser.

What is the Excel spreadsheet all about?

This spreadsheet http://www.colorado4h.org/blog/docs/2010/ListOfAll4hClubAffilates-EXCEL-TEMPLATE.xls is for you to fill out and return to our office with current information on 4-H clubs and affiliated organizations that should be included under the state GEN. This will become the statewide list that the IRS will use to transfer and list everyone appropriately. Accuracy is critical! Please check and recheck all of your entries. Following are instructions on each field in the spreadsheet:

- The Employer Identification Number (EIN) should be unique for each group. It should not be a Social Security number from a volunteer.

- The Chapter Name should be the same as on the groups’ original charter. Please check the spelling and include the entire name of the group without abbreviations. If it is the “Cortez 4-H Club” list it that way not just as “Cortez.”

- Care Of Name. There are two options. Some counties have already changed these names to those of an extension agent to facilitate required annual IRS reporting requirements. County offices take responsibility for filing the annual e-Postcard that acknowledges any change in the status of the group by the filing deadline. This assures an additional level of oversight of clubs and the IRS filing deadlines are met. The second option is to use the organizational leader’s name and address. If the second option is used, they will receive any communications from the IRS. Changes in club leadership will need to be communicated with the IRS with the 990-N e-Postcard.

-  Address, City, State, and Zip. This should align with the Care of Name.

-  Tax Home Choice and Name of Entity. We will fill in these columns.

The deadline for submitting the Excel spreadsheet is February 1, 2011. Please e-mail the spreadsheet to ellen.butler@colostate.edu�
Click on this link to view a sample MOU to adapt and use with affiliated 4-H organizations.   http://www.colorado4h.org/blog/docs/2010/SampleMOU.pdf
Please call with your questions. – Dale Leidheiser

National Web Spotlight – ENOR

We are pleased to inform you that 4-H National Headquarters has selected the Eagle’s Nest / Owl’s Roost  as the November Program Spotlight  for the Programs of Distinction home page (http://www.national4-hheadquarters.gov/about/pod.htm). The Programs of Distinction web page has a special section that highlights one program each month. Your program has been selected to be this month’s “Program Spotlight”. Please check out the web page to see your program spotlighted.

Congratulations on this achievement and the overall success of your program.

2011 ESRI GIS Software Grants

The 2011 ESRI GIS Grants for 4-H (U.S.) are now available.  The application period is Oct 1—Dec 1, 2010.  You will need a letter of support from Jeff Goodwin or myself if you wish to apply, so give us plenty of lead time for the letters.  I would encourage counties to apply for these software grants.  The regional specialists do have GPS receivers that can be used to collect data and we can provide additional training resources.  This program fits into our 4-H geospatial curriculum and GEAR TECH 21.  Applications can be downloaded at www.esri.com/4-h

• Getting Started with GIS and GPS
  This 2011 ESRI GIS Grant Program for U.S. 4-H is for 4-H clubs not already familiar with GPS or GIS technologies that want to begin introducing spatial literacy to youth at a basic level.
• ArcGIS Grant
  This 2011 ESRI GIS Grant Program for U.S. 4-H is for 4-H clubs with adults and youth members comfortable with technology who are now ready to learn and do more with ArcGIS software and GPS technology. The grant now includes software and curriculum that was previously included in the two separate Introduction to GIS and Intermediate GIS grants.
• State or Regional ArcGIS 4-H Educator Train the Trainer Grant
  This 2011 ESRI GIS Grant Program for U.S. 4-H is for 4-H adults who are implementing a statewide or region wide GIS training program for adult 4-H educators with the specific intent that the trained educators will then introduce GIS technology to 4-H youth at the local level beginning with the 2011/2012 4-H enrollment year.

Note:  You will need a letter of support from Jeff Goodwin or myself.  You will also need a list of previous Colorado grantees, they are listed below.  You will also be asked some questions about the state plan of action.

Gunnison County 4-H Program
Douglas County 4-H Program
Cheyenne, Kiowa and Kit Carson County 4-H Programs
Routt County 4-H, Community Mapping Team
Archuleta County 4-H, Community Mapping Team
Boulder County 4-H, Community Mapping Team
Montezuma County 4-H, Community Mapping Team
Washington County 4-H Community Mapping Team
Bent County 4-H
La Plata County 4-H

GEAR-Tech-21 Mini-grants to Host Robotics and GPS/GIS Camps in 2011

GEAR-Tech-21 is announcing mini-grants to host robotics and GPS/GIS camps in 2011.  This is your chance to get GEAR-Tech-21 started in your area or to continue an existing club program.

In order to receive a grant, your site must host a GEAR-Tech-21 summer camp that includes robotics, GPS, and GIS activities for at least 10 youth participants.  Extension staff, teachers, summer programs, and resident camps have held camps in the past.  Camp programs must include at least 20 hours of content-based activities and can have many different schedules, from a one-week, full-day overnight or day camp to two-week, half-day programs or camp activities spread out over the whole summer.  Some 2010 camps were held during spring break or fall break; GEAR-Tech-21 camps can take place anytime during the year.  Sites will provide their own leaders for the camps, who will coordinate and teach all aspects.  GEAR-Tech-21 will provide training for camp staff and assist in finding equipment, software and other resources.

Camp funding is limited to participant costs, like food and supplies, and cannot be used for staff or equipment.  The 2011 grants will cover up to $75 per participant for Year 1 camps and up to $100 for year 2 camps.

In order to complete GIS activities during camp, sites need access to either Google Earth or ArcMap software.  While Google Earth is free, a reliable Internet connection is required.  Camps who do not have Internet access during their programs need to apply for the grant from ESRI to receive ArcMap software.  More information about the ESRI grants is available here: http://4hset.unl.edu/4hdrupal/node/664

Camps will submit program proposals for review beginning December 1. The application period will remain open until the all of the available funding has been allocated.  Find out the program requirements and apply for the grants here:  http://4hset.unl.edu/4hdrupal/node/165

You are welcome to share this request for proposals with anyone who might be interested in hosting a camp.  Please do not hesitate to ask if you have questions.  Contact Kathy Morgan, Project Manager at kmorgan3@unl.edu or 402.472.5027.
- Willa L. Williams

National 4-H History Preservation Program

Here is the second issue of the National 4-H History Preservation Program newsletter which gives you a bit of their own history.  http://n4h.convio.net/site/DocServer/Nov_2010_Newsletter.pdf?docID=441 This nationwide movement to preserve history has been expanding rapidly over the past few months through many programs and activities on the internet and at various conferences and meetings.  This month we’re happy to share information from two states as well as to update you on the work of the team at the national level.

You’ll note in this issue that we’ve added a new display at the National 4-H Youth Conference Center to highlight some of the significant 4-H History of the past 10 years.  We invite you to come by and visit this new “Contemporary 4-H History” exhibit.  If you can’t make it to the Washington DC area, why not plan to celebrate your own Contemporary   4-H History.

The team continues to seek your assistance in identifying people in your state who can serve as contacts with the national team and those who are already working to preserve 4-H History at the local, county or state level.  They would like to help you publicize these efforts across the country through the national website.  Please do not hesitate to send them your comments or questions at: Info@4-HHistoryPreservation.com.
-Ellen Butler

Peer Reviewers Needed

Programs of Distinction (POD) is pleased to announce:
• New presentations have been posted on the website to help staff in learning about and developing manuscripts.
o http://www.national4-hheadquarters.gov/about/pod.htm

• The call for a new team of Peer Reviewers is now open. This is a great professional development opportunity. Applications will be accepted through the end of November.
o http://www.national4-hheadquarters.gov/about/pod_review.htm

• Each month a different program is being showcased on the website.
o http://www.national4-hheadquarters.gov/about/pod.htm

Amy McCune, 4-H National Headquarters
Phone: 202-720-2920; Fax: 202-720-9366
Email: amccune@nifa.usda.gov

ESRI 2011 Education User Conference Call for Papers is Open

The ESRI 2011 Education User Conference Call for Papers is open and abstracts can be submitted at www.esri.com/educ.  There will be a link on the front page and also a link under the “Get Involved” tab.

The deadline for the Education User conference abstracts/proposals is January 14, 2011 and will not be extended.

The Education User conference is July 9-12, 2011 in San Diego – Willa Williams

2011 Team America Rocketry Challenge (TARC)

Take the National Rocketry Challenge
It’s time to form your own rocket team and learn to launch. Registration is now open for the 2011 Team America Rocketry Challenge (TARC), the world’s largest rocket contest challenging participants to compete for $60,000 in prizes and scholarships. Participation is limited to the first 750 teams who register by November 30.

4-H has always done well in this event and had five TARC teams make it to the finals this year, three from Hart County, KY one from Cottage Grove, MN and one from Jefferson County, TX. The Kentucky team finished in18th place nationally.

This year’s challenge is to design, build and fly a model rocket containing a raw egg that reaches an altitude of 750 feet, stays aloft for 40 to 45 seconds, and returns the egg unbroken on a parachute. The team’s qualification entry flight must be launched by April 4, 2011.

Students in grades 7-12 in any U.S. school or non-profit youth organization are eligible to compete. About 7,000 students from across the country take part in the contest each year, and since TARC’s first contest in 2003 almost 50,000 students have taken the challenge.

Aerospace Industries Association (AIA) sponsors the contest with the National Association of Rocketry (NAR), the Defense Department, NASA, and AIA member companies. NAR is a 4-H partner and specifically invites 4-H groups to try rocketry and get into TARC.

The rocket contest gives future engineers the opportunity to demonstrate their math and science skills by designing a real aerospace product. To download the TARC Handbook, Rules and registration form to get started with your 4-H Rocketry Team, visit Team America Rocketry Challenge. http://www.rocketcontest.org/

American Youth Leadership Program with Mongolia

Enhancing Global Perspectives:  American Youth Leadership Program with Mongolia
June 15 to July 14, 2011
Ulaanbaatar Mongolia
Applications due January 15, 2011
http://4-h.uwyo.edu/Mongolia.asp

Do you like to travel? Are you interested in learning about other cultures? Are you curious about global environmental issues? Would you like to see another part of the world with minimal out of pocket expenses? Apply for the Enhancing Global Perspectives American Youth Leadership Program with Mongolia!  This exchange is sponsored by the U.S. Department of State and will be administered by the University of Wyoming 4-H Program.  Youth who are 15-17 years old by June1 and have at least one semester of high school left following the trip are eligible to apply.  There are also opportunities for adult participants to chaperone.

American and Mongolian youth will participate in all of the activities throughout the four week exchange, June 15 to July 14, 2011.  The exchange will include in-depth cultural training in Ulaanbaatar which will focus on language training in English and Mongolian, cultural differences and teambuilding.  A two week host family stay will include community service activities and educational programs around water quality, land reclamation and renewable resources common to both the Western U.S. and Mongolia. Time will also be scheduled to visit cultural sites, such as museums, temples and participate in cultural events.  The final week will be spent in a ger tourist camp in the country side.

Participant expenses will be minimal and include the cost of passport photos, transportation to regional airport for the pre-trip orientation May 20-22 and the exchange trip, spending money for souvenirs, modest host family gift, two books and a child’s horse helmet for the Mongolian 4-H Youth Organization.  All other expenses will be covered by the U.S. Department of State grant.

For more information and to access the application materials, please visit the web site:  http://4-h.uwyo.edu/Mongolia.asp.  Applications are due by January 15, 2011.  By February 1, applicants will be contacted to schedule a web based interview to be completed in February. Questions about the American Youth Leadership Program can be directed to University of Wyoming 4-H specialists Warren Crawford (crawford@uwyo.edu) or Kim Reaman (kreaman@uwyo.edu).
- Courtney Loflin

4-H Update

Volume 14, Number 4

Reminders:

• March 20-25: National 4-H Conference, National 4-H Conference Center
• April 5-6: STEM regional Open Forums, CSU Campus
• April 13-15: CAE4-HA, Cripple Creek
• May 1: 4-H OnLine Youth Enrollment data due, Joy Bauder, CSU Campus
• May 15:  IFYE host applications due, State 4-H Office

Livestock Field Days

With the first livestock field day this Saturday, we wanted to send out a reminder with the links to each of the flyers.  Please share this with the Livestock members and leaders in your counties.  Thanks for your help with this!

Swine Field Day (March 13 – Morgan County Fairgrounds) – http://www.colostate.edu/Depts/CoopExt/Adams/4h/pdf/2010swinefieldday.pdf

Sheep and Goat Field Day (March 20 – Adams County Fairgrounds) – http://www.colostate.edu/Depts/CoopExt/Adams/4h/pdf/2010SheepandGoatFieldDay.pdf

Beef Field Day (March 27 – Morgan County Fairgrounds) – http://www.colostate.edu/Depts/CoopExt/Adams/4h/pdf/2010beeffieldday.pdf

- Julia Hurdelbrink, Adams County Extension 4-H Agent

Consumer Choices – Consumer Bowl Contests – Adams County Judging Extravaganza

Below is a link for information on the Consumer Choices contest that will be held on Saturday, April 3, in Adams County.  Please pass this information onto your members that may be interested in participating.  We will be doing Consumer Choices as well as Consumer Bowl.  Please let me know if you have any questions.

http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2010/JudgingExtravaganzaInfo-ConsChoices2010.pdf

Thanks for your help in promoting this contest! – Julia Hurdelbrink, Adams County 4-H Agent

Livestock Contest at Adams County Judging Extravaganza

Below is a link for information on the 2010 Adams County Livestock judging contest that will be held on Saturday, April 3, 2010.  Please pass this information onto your livestock judging members and coaches.  If you have any questions, please contact Jeff Sterkel at 303.637.8107 or at jsterkel@co.adams.co.us.

http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2010/2010-JudgingExtravaganza-Livestock.pdf

Thanks for your help!- Julia Hurdelbrink, Adams County Extension 4-H Agent

4-H Livestock Quiz Bowl Invitational

The 4-H Livestock Quiz Bowl Invitational is a 4-H National Headquarters approved event started in 2007 as a comprehensive knowledge contest about the livestock industry. The Invitational is conducted as part of the Ak-Sar-Ben 4-H Stock Show held the end of September in Omaha, Nebraska.

The purpose of the Invitational is to serve as a reward and goal for 4-H youths who have excelled in similar events at the state level. A group of Extension faculty and staff as well as industry professionals serve on the National Committee.

The 4-H Livestock Quiz Bowl Invitational is open to all states to send a team as long as the 4-Hers participating meet the Quiz Bowl Invitational and 4-H National guidelines for eligibility. Several states have asked for an expansion of the Invitational to allow more teams and a wider range of participant ages from states. To meet these requests, the Ak-Sar-Ben 4-H Livestock Quiz Bowl Contest has been developed to be held in conjunction with the 4-H Livestock Quiz Bowl Invitational. This will allow states to send additional teams of youth, allowing them an opportunity to gain more experience prior to participating in the 4-H Livestock Quiz Bowl Invitational. This contest, the Ak-Sar-Ben 4-H Livestock Quiz Bowl, is open to youth, ages 10 to 18.

All of these contests are conducted in a professional, developmentally appropriate manner. Each state makes their own determination on how to select respective teams for the Invitational and Ak-Sar-Ben Contests.

Please contact Mr. Steve Pritchard, Quiz Bowl Superintendent, at 402.395.2158 or spritchard1@unl.edu to request more information. We look forward to having your state represented in Omaha this September.

MetLife Afterschool Innovator Award

The Afterschool Alliance and MetLife Foundation are partnering to develop and disseminate a series of Issue Briefs that address topics related to middle school youth and afterschool programs. Nominate a program by April 23, 2010 for a chance to receive a MetLife Afterschool Innovator Award and be highlighted in one of our Issue Briefs.  Awardees will be recognized in the related Issue Brief and in the final compendium.  Awards will be given out by the Afterschool Alliance in conjunction with the 2010 Lights On Afterschool and each recipient will receive an award of $5,000 to be used to continue or improve upon the highlighted program.

We need your help in finding programs that are:

Providing multiple benefits to middle school students:
•    Nominate an exemplary middle school program that is providing benefits to middle school students, including helping them succeed academically in middle school, providing opportunities for service and preparing them for success in high school.

Promoting health and wellness for pre-teens and teens:
•    Nominate an innovative afterschool program that provides a place for middle school youth to be physically active, while teaching them to make positive choices for themselves.

Preparing middle school youth for college and careers:
•    Nominate an afterschool program that better prepares middle school youth for high school, college and careers, while keeping them on track and engaged in middle school.

Merging middle school programs and STEM learning:
•    Nominate a middle school afterschool program that incorporates/features STEM activities, giving students time to develop an interest in science, inspiring them to learn STEM skills and even explore STEM careers.

Your knowledge of the field is critical in helping us identify these potentially lesser known, yet highly effective, programs and the individuals running them.  Take a moment to make the nomination yourself or to point candidates in our direction. Our online nomination form can be found at http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/metlife2010 and additional details are available online at http://www.afterschoolalliance.org/metLife.cfm.  If you have any questions please contact Willa Williams, Colorado State 4-H STEM Specialist, at 970.491.0893 or email willa.williams@colostate.edu.
- Ellen Butler

4-H Update

Volume 14, Number 1

Reminders:

• Jan. 7-10: Western 4-H Roundup, Denver
• Jan. 18: University Holiday, offices closed
• Jan. 22-24: Leadership Development Conference, Denver
• Jan. 25: 4-H Day at the Capitol, Denver

Colorado State University Extension Position Announcement

#01-10, Regional Extension Specialist, 4-H Youth Development – STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math)

Three Positions:  Fixed Term – June 1, 2010 – May 30, 2013

• Western Region (one position) – Office location to be determined

• Southern Region (one position) – Office location Pueblo, CO or negotiable

• Northern Region (one position) – Office located in the CSU Regional Center in Sterling, CO

Provide research-based, objective, informal science education to Extension agents, volunteers, schools & to Colorado youth & families.  Completed Master’s degree by 06/01/10.  All application materials, including transcripts showing degrees conferred, must be RECEIVED no later than 5pm Mountain Time, February 1, 2010 for full consideration.  Application instructions and complete list of requirements located at http://www.ext.colostate.edu/coop/jobsmenu.html.  CSU conducts background checks on all final candidates.  CSU is an EEO/AA Employer. – Ellen Butler

4-H International Exchange Programs 2010

4-H/Japanese Summer Exchange
Japanese exchange students have 100 percent medical coverage and may participate in host family vacations. Teens  from hosting families in Colorado are subsequently eligible to participate in an exchange program to Japan during any of the following summers until they are 21 years old.

Inbound -Host families are needed for approximately 75 Japanese boys and girls, ages 12-21. Japanese teens from the Labo and Lex organizations arrive in Colorado on July 21 and join host families on July 23 after orientation by 4-H staff. Teens from the UTREK program arrive in Colorado on July 21, joining their host families on July 25 after orientation and a camp in the mountains. Both groups return to Denver on Aug. 18 and depart for Japan on Aug. 19.

Outbound-The outbound exchange involves a family that acts as a host for a Japanese youth. This enables their son or daughter, ages 12-19, to apply to be a delegate to Japan for a four-week (July 7 – Aug. 5) or eight-week (June 10 – Aug. 5) homestay experience. Travel expenses are assumed by the traveler.  (Applications due 2-1-10)

4-H/Japanese High School Exchange
Inbound – Colorado will host 10 Labo, Lex, and Utrek Japanese high school exchange students, ages 15-18. These participants stay with host families and will attend Colorado high schools from July 2010 through mid-June 2011. They are proficient in English and will attend an additional intensive English language class before arriving in Colorado.

Families who host a high school delegate are eligible to receive a $1,000 scholarship toward the cost of sending their son or daughter to Japan for four or eight weeks.

Future Leaders Exchange (FLEX)
Inbounds – Host families are needed for FLEX students, ages 15-18. This program is funded by the U.S. State Department to instill democratic principles in exchange participants from the New Independent States (NIS) of the former Soviet Union. FLEX participants come from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Russia,Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Ukraine, and Uzbekistan. Colorado will host 10 participants  who will stay with host families and attend high school August 2010 through mid-June 2011.

International 4-H Youth Exchange (IFYE)
Inbound – IFYE delegates, ages 19-30, stay two to three weeks with several host families during their three-month stay in Colorado. IFYE’s come from many regions of the world: Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Latin America, Australia, Asia and Africa. They share information about their country, culture and the IFYE program with various community groups and travel throughout Colorado during their visit. IFYEs generally arrive in Colorado mid-June or mid-September.

International 4-H Youth Exchange (IFYE)
Outbound-IFYE delegates, ages 19-30, visit a foreign country for three or six months. The countries are located  in Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Latin America, Australia, Asia and Africa. Six-month delegates leave the United States in late June and return in early December. Three-month delegates return in early September. The delegate lives and works with host families and gains a unique perspective about another culture. When delegates return, they travel throughout Colorado to share their experiences and broaden international awareness. The Colorado 4-H Foundation offers two full scholarships each year for IFYE representatives, (personal spending money excluded).

Other 4-H International Programs (applications due 2-1-2010)

Outbound-

• Australia (ages 16-19) – June 16 – July 15
• Costa Rica (ages 15-18) – June 19 – July 17
• Norway (ages 16-19) – June 30– August 2
• Mexico (ages 15-18) – July 3 – 25

Participants travel to the host country as a group, accompanied by adult group leaders. After arrival they stay with a host family. The traveler is responsible for all program expenses. For further information please contact me at 970.491.2711 or email courtney.loflin@colostate.edu. – Courtney Loflin, 4-H International Program Coordinator

National Western Stock Show Group Sales Ticket Offer

All 4-H members, families and friends, and their invited guests, are eligible for discounted prices on reserve seating at the National Western Stock Show.  The prices offered are unavailable to the general public and tickets purchased through this special offer are free of all service charges, an additional savings of $3.75 per ticket. (Tickets must be purchased through Group Services.  Discounts will not be given at the Stock Show Box Office.)

The National Western Stock Show invites all 4-H members to enjoy their personal favorite(s) of our shows, and to spend a day full of fun that will include numerous opportunities to be entertained by the exhibits, shopping, art, delicious food and western spirit.  (Your show ticket includes free grounds admission to all exhibits, all day long 9am-8pm.)

You will receive a $2 discount off of regular price for the majority of our shows.  In honor of “4-H Day”, which is on Wednesday, January 20, you will receive a $3 discount off of regular price for both Pro Rodeos that day.  For the Pro Rodeo at 2:00pm, tickets will be $9 each, and for the Pro Rodeo at 7:30pm, tickets will be $11 each.  Again, these tickets must be purchased through Group Services.

Choose your own best method of reserving your shows:

•    Fax this page to our secure fax line: 303.297.1849.
•    Order by Internet: www.nationalwestern.com/groups.
•    Order by phone: 303.295.2979.

To see a brief description of each show, please refer to www.nationalwestern.com/groups.  To order tickets please click on: http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2009/4h-GroupSalesForm2010.pdf
- Ellen Butler

2010 4-H National Youth Science Day Experiment – Call for Letters of Intent

Due to the tremendous response by 4-H faculty and staff at Land-Grant Universities for the 2009 National Science Experiment, the National 4-H SET Leadership teams (including staff from 4-H National Headquarters, NIFA, USDA and National 4-H Council) are inviting all Land-Grant Universities to submit experiment ideas for youth to conduct during the 2010 4-H National Youth Science Day (4-H NYSD) and provide leadership with experiment implementation. The 2010 4-H NYSD applicants are being asked to focus on the theme of water quality as it relates to climate change. All proposals must be submitted based upon the Letter of Intent which is available at www.4-H.org/NYSD. The chosen LGU will receive $20,000 for use in designing the experiment as well as supporting their state 4-H program and Cooperative Extension efforts around science, engineering and technology.

The letter of intent is due by 4:00pm EST Thursday, Jan. 28, 2010. Selected LGUs will then move on to the RFP process (a full timeline is available in the attached LOI). The final National Science Experiment and materials will be shared with the 4-H System in May 2010. Submissions are to be sent to: 4-HNYSD@4-H.org. – Ellen Butler

CWF Program Assistants

Do you know a 4-H’er who has a passion for government, history, political science, working with youth, public speaking, or leadership? If so, encourage them to apply for the position of Program Assistant (PA) at the National 4-H Youth Conference Center! Application deadlines are approaching soon and we want to give 4-H alumni and Collegiate 4-Hers an opportunity to make a difference during their spring or summer semester. Our PAs will be touching the lives of thousands of high school-aged students from all over the United States while working for the Citizenship Washington Focus (CWF) program in Washington, DC.

CWF gives 4-Hers the opportunity to strengthen their communication, leadership, and other citizenship skills on a national level. Nearly 2,000 young people exchange ideas, practice respect, and form friendships with other youth from diverse backgrounds throughout the summer. Through hands-on activities, simulations, and tours of various monuments and memorials, participants figure out what citizenship means to them and develop action plans to make a difference in their home communities. As a CWF Program Assistant, these 4-H leaders will create, develop, and facilitate curriculum to be used during the 2010 program.

We are looking for individuals with at least a high school diploma (preferably some college experience) and a passion for youth development, hospitality, teaching, history, politics, or leadership. If you know a college student looking for credit towards graduation, National 4-H Council will happily work with the student and the school to make this possible. Listed below is the link for information and application materials.

Citizenship Washington Focus Program Assistant: Application due January 18, 2010. http://www.citizenshipwashingtonfocus.org/programassistant.aspx

For more information please contact: Molly Young, Director, Youth Opportunities, myoung@4HCenter.org, 301.961.2812; or Freeman Thompson, Coordinator, Youth Opportunities, fthompson@4HCenter.org, 301.961.2917.  – Ellen Butler

Western Region 4-H Leader’s Forum!

Registration is open for WRLF 2010! Please help advertise this regional 4-H event occurring March 11-14, 2010 in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Come to the Land of Enchantment.  The website address is http://aces.nmsu.edu/4h/ and then click on “Details” under the WRLF 2010 logo or you may go directly to the WRLF homepage at http://aces.nmsu.edu/4h/wrlf2010/. The Early Bird deadline is just one month away!  Click on these links for an article and graphic you may want to use for newsletters or other promo efforts. Please edit as needed.- Dale Leidheiser

http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2009/2010-WRLF.jpg
http://www.colorado4h.org/Blog/docs/2009/BlazingTrailsToNewMexico.pdf

4-H Update

Volume 13, Number 29

Reminders:

• November 20-22: Colorado Leadership Camp, Glenwood Springs
• November26-27: University holiday, offices closed
• November 27-Dec. 2: National 4-H Congress, Atlanta, GA
• Dec.23-25: University holiday, offices closed
• Dec. 31: University holiday, offices closed

Free Hotel, Meals and Entertainment!

Yes, here’s the opportunity of a lifetime for 4-H agents and volunteers! What could be more entertaining than spending time with 50 outstanding 4-H members and coaches from Colorado? What could be nicer than the Renaissance Hotel? What’s more delicious than great banquets and the Traildust steakhouse? No hidden agendas. Just the opportunity to have fun and chaperon some great young people at Western National 4-H Roundup, Jan. 7 – 10, 2010.

The application is available at:  http://www.colorado4h.org/events_opportunities/adult_chaperone.shtml.  Only the pure of heart and strong of constitution need apply!  – Dale Leidheiser

IRS/4-H Tax Exempt Status Update

There really is no update. Nothing has changed in the past year and a half. What does that mean?
1.   New 4-H clubs should still get an EIN.
2.   All 4-H affiliated Clubs and organizations should still try to file an e-Postcard by the 15 day of the 5th month after the end of their club fiscal year. For most clubs on an Oct. 1 – Sept. 30 year that would be by Feb. 15, 2010.
3.  Failure to file (or attempt to file) could result in the loss of tax exempt status of the group.
4.  For clubs that try to file and get an error message from the IRS that they are not included under the 4-H Group

Exemption Number:
a.  Keep a copy of the message as proof that they tried to file but were unsuccessful.
b.  Do not call the IRS to try and figure it out. More problems are caused by well-meaning volunteers calling the IRS about filing problems than are solved by the call. National 4-H Headquarters asks that individuals do not call the IRS.

5.  National 4-H Headquarter is still working with the IRS to resolve issues with our GEN.
6.  County offices should still collect and keep track of club EIN’s.
7.  At some point in the future we will be notified by National 4-H Headquarters about adding new clubs and deleting defunct clubs from our state certified list.
8.  Please call me if you have questions or concerns about 4-H and our tax exempt status.

CLC Reminders

What to send to the State 4-H office from each county office:

Group Form:   http://www.colorado4h.org/events_opportunities/clc/CLC-GroupForm.doc
Conference Rooming list: http://www.colorado4h.org/events_opportunities/clc/CLC-conferenceroomlist.doc

Please fill out these two forms and send them to me at the State 4-H Office by Nov. 13 with a check for the total of your participants.  I would like to have one county check made out to:  Colorado State 4-H Senate.

The Health and Code of Conduct Form should be filled out by the participants but do not mail them to me—have each participant bring it with them.

Workshop Information:  There will be four workshops at camp. They are Leadership/Ethics, Speech/Debate, Dance, and Mask.

http://www.colorado4h.org/events_opportunities/clc/index.shtml –the health and code of  conduct form can be found on the 4-H website at this address along with the schedule and what each participant needs to bring. The costs is $110 per participant and chaperon.  If you have any questions, please let me know.  Thanks! -  Connie Cecil

IFYE Reporting

Participants in the International Four-H Youth Exchange (IFYE) enhance the 4-H program through educational international, cross-cultural experiences that enable young people to improve their leadership and communication skills, while increasing their international awareness and understanding.

2009 IFYE Representatives Susan Kasza (Bent County to Scotland/England) and Alanna Weber (Kiowa County to Switzerland) are available to share their international experiences through PowerPoint presentations at schools (language, history, geography classes, general assemblies), service organizations, churches, 4-H clubs, etc., starting mid-January through April, 2010. Susan, (23 years) is the daughter of Joe and Kaye Kasza of McClave, Colorado.  Kaye is a 4-H agent in Bent County.  Susan graduated in May of 2009 with a B.S. in Animal Science and Biological Science.  She is an 11-year Colorado 4-H member.

Alanna Weber (20 years) is the daughter of Robert and Peg Weber of Sheridan Lake, Colorado.  Alanna is a student at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs majoring in Business.  She is a 9-year Colorado 4-H member.

Please contact Courtney Loflin at the State 4-H office to schedule Susan or Alanna. Phone:  970.491.2711; E-mail:  Courtney.Loflin@Colostate.Edu