Annual Report 2011

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2011 Oklahoma 4-H Annual Report

SEPT. 22, 2012 WES WATKINS CENTER OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY Reconnect with your 4-H family and friends at the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation’s 50th anniversary Homecoming Celebration! The festivities will feature a barbecue lunch with time to catch up with friends, educators and mentors, with a tour of the new Oklahoma State University athletic facilities as a bonus!

Visit our brand new website to register online for just $20!

Oklahoma 4-H Foundation 205 4-H Youth Development Stillwater, OK 74074 405-744-5390 oklahoma4H.okstate.edu/Foundation 2

2011 Oklahoma 4-H Annual Report

TABLE OF CONTENTS Features

3 Bleeding Green 4 Our Golden Anniversary Revolutionizing Community Service 6 The $1 Million Difference 8 Handing Out Hugs 10 The 4-H Food Showdown 12 14 Growing Through the Drought 16 Making a Difference 17 Rethink What You Eat

Oklahoma 4-H Annual Report Issued June 2012 Published by: Oklahoma 4-H Youth Development Charles Cox Assistant Director, Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service and 4-H Program Leader The Oklahoma 4-H Foundation Jim Rutledge Executive Director

Jim Rutledge is inducted into the National 4-H Hall of Fame.

Suzanne Simpson Editor and Coordinator of Special Programs and Promotions

The Oklahoma 4-H Foundation celebrates 50 amazing years of giving.

Special thanks to Todd Johnson, Trisha Gedon, Rebecca Bailey, and all those quoted within for their contributions.

One Payne County 4-H member’s unique brand of citizenship.

The six figure check that will radically change the face of Oklahoma 4-H.

Unless otherwise noted, all photos courtesy of Todd Johnson or Oklahoma 4-H. 205 4-H Youth Development Building Stillwater, OK 74078 http://oklahoma4h.okstate.edu

A Cleveland County 4-H’er devotes her time to soldiers far from home.

The Oklahoma 4-H Annual Report is published annually for 4-H supporters and Oklahoma 4-H Alumni.

The exciting new competition that has invigorated Oklahoma 4-H.

Oklahoma State University, U.S. Department of Agriculture, state and local governments cooperating. Oklahoma State University, in compliance with Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Executive Order 11246 as amended, Title IX of the Education Amendment of 1972, Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and other federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, age, religion, disability, or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices or procedures.

The Hooker 4-H Club delivered despite impossible conditions.

Enhancement grants continue to revitalize 4-H and local communities.

A dedicated 4-H educator teaches sound decision-making and healthy living.

This publication, issued by Oklahoma 4-H Youth Development, as authorized by the Oklahoma 4-H Program Leader, was printed by Oklahoma Career Tech at a cost of $X.XX for 1,000 issues. #JS0709

Departments Message from the directors

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Revenue and expense report

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2011 Hall of Fame

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2011 Order of the Clover

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2011 Adult Awards

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Honorary and memorial gifts

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Scholarship donors and winners

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Circle of Champions

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OKLAHOMA

4-H

FOUNDATION

I N C O R P O R A T E D

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2011 Oklahoma 4-H Annual Report

Dear Friends of Oklahoma 4-H: President JIM EDEN, JR., Stillwater Vice-President DAN BOMHOFF, Okarche Treasurer JAN KUNZE, Oklahoma City Past President DEREK SMITHEE, Edmond Board of Directors ANN BENSON, Stillwater MARVIN BURNS, Guthrie BEVERLY CHAPMAN, Calvin JERED DAVIDSON, Fort Cobb WHITNEY DOCKREY, Shawnee JOE DORMAN, Rush Springs SHANNON FERRELL, Stillwater KENT GARDNER, Oklahoma City PAUL JACKSON, Oklahoma City JERRY KIEFER, Edmond KIRSTEN MCINTYRE-GANTZ, Edmond RODD MOESEL, Oklahoma City AMY PIERCE, Edmond GWEN SHAW, Edmond MIKE SPRADLING, Sand Springs TERRY STOWERS, Norman DIXIE THOMAS, Wichita ANDREA VOLTURO, Claremore Ex-Officio Directors CHARLES COX, Stillwater JAMES TRAPP, Stillwater Advisory Directors DEBBIE ASHTON, Lawton MATTHEW CHUNING, Barnsdall CINDY CONNER, Enid CHASE HARRIS, Stillwater KENDRA RASH, Stillwater JIM RUTLEDGE, Executive Director 4

2011 Oklahoma 4-H Annual Report

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he past year has been very exciting for Oklahoma 4-H and the 4-H Foundation.

This 2011 Annual Report includes a few of the highlights from the past year, as well as several stories about 4-H’ers and educators who have truly excelled with their project work and programming. We hope you will join us in celebrating another great year for the Oklahoma 4-H Youth Development Program.

Participation in 4-H has positively exploded over the past several years. In 2011, nearly 46,000 members were enrolled in 4-H clubs across the state, with almost 1,000 enrolled in 4-H military clubs sponsored by Oklahoma 4-H Operation: Military Kids. We are serving a more diverse group of youth than ever before, and we have nearly 6,000 certified 4-H volunteers. Overall, Oklahoma 4-H reached more than 140,000 youth throughout the state in 2011. And while this is a wonderful accomplishment, we want to expand our scope even further as we continue to offer outstanding programming to the youth of this state.

The 4-H Foundation also had a fantastic year and achieved several all-time firsts. We received our first One Million Dollar Gift. This is by far the largest single cash gift we have ever received, and it has created the Rule of Law Educational Fund Scholarship Endowment that will produce up to 50 scholarship awards annually. This gift, combined with other gifts and the returning strength in the market, increased our assets to more than $6 million, also a new high. Please see the rest of this story on page 8 of this report.

This is the 2011 annual report, but we also want to make note of the 50th Anniversary of the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation, which occurs in 2012. The Foundation was created in January 1962 in order to become the final beneficiary of the R. D. Farmer Trust. After 45 years, Oklahoma 4-H received the funds from this trust in 2007, and since then the annual revenue from the Farmer Trust has given us a number of new opportunities. We have invested in new scholarship programs, kept up support for the enhancement grant program, increased support for 4-H Roundup and National 4-H Congress, and improved the effectiveness of our office operations with new non-profit software.

We are inviting everyone who has ever been involved with the 4-H Foundation as a donor, a board member, a scholarship or trip winner, or a recipient of any Foundation program to join us for the Homecoming Celebration in honor of our 50th Anniversary on Sept. 22, 2012. More information and registration details can be found in the ad on the inside cover.

We are very excited to share this annual report with you, and we hope you will enjoy reading the stories and articles included. We look forward to seeing many of you at 4-H Roundup, the 50th Anniversary Homecoming or another upcoming 4-H event.

With warmest regards,

Charles B. Cox Jim Rutledge Jim Eden Oklahoma 4-H Program Leader Executive Director President Assistant Director, OCES Oklahoma 4-H Foundation Inc. Oklahoma 4-H Foundation Inc.

For his exceptional commitment to and passion for the 4-H program, Jim Rutledge, past program leader for the Oklahoma and Oregon 4-H programs and the current executive director for the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation, will be inducted into the National 4-H Hall of Fame in 2012.

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e’ve all met someone who is so wholly dedicated to 4-H that they figuratively “bleed green,” but perhaps no one deserves this designation more than Jim Rutledge, a man who has spent the past 54 years working with 4-H on the local, county, state, national and even international level.

“I think Jim’s a very dedicated and committed individual who has a great deal of passion for 4-H youth development,” said Charles Cox, the Oklahoma 4-H program leader. “He’s played an integral role in the development and support of 4-H in this state and, truly, the nation.”

Rutledge began his first role in the 4-H program at the age of 10 as the recreation chair for his 4-H club in Illinois.

When his family moved to Wisconsin, Rutledge became even more involved in 4-H, serving in various offices and attending National 4-H Congress and Citizenship Short Course, the trip now called Citizenship Washington Focus.

“I think I was probably a junior in high school when I realized how truly wonderful the 4-H program is,” Rutledge said.

“Back then, I was a member of our Junior Leadership Club and was beginning to take on more and more leadership roles. By the time I graduated high school, I knew I wanted to be an Extension agent.”

After attending the University of Wisconsin, where he majored in agriculture and extension and was a member of collegiate 4-H, Rutledge was drafted into the U.S. Army for two years. He then went back to Wisconsin and earned a master’s degree with the intention of working in Extension. Though it was seen as an odd ca5

2011 Oklahoma 4-H Annual Report

Left to right: Jim Rutledge, Charles Cox, Lynda Harriman,Wallace Smith and PeteWilliams have all served as program leaders for Oklahoma 4-H.

reer choice at the time, Rutledge said he had always been drawn to the Extension model.

“I still remember the date I got my first Extension job,” he joked. “It was Aug. 22, 1971. So it will be 41 years in August 2012, but I’ve loved every minute of it.”

For seven years, Rutledge served as a 4-H agent in Wisconsin, after which he spent five years as an area 4-H agent in Wyoming. He then moved to Oklahoma to begin a career as a state 4-H specialist.

“Jim came here as a volunteer development specialist, and he was absolutely dedicated to the training of volunteers at both the state and local levels,” said Pat McNally, who worked with Rutledge in Oklahoma from 1983 to 1988. They married in 2009. “He firmly believed in professionalism, and he is a true visionary.”

His commitment earned him the state 4-H program leader position in Oklahoma, which he held for five years.

In 1994, Rutledge decided it was time for another change, and he took the position as the state 4-H program leader in Oregon. Throughout the 10 years he held this position, 4-H enrollment in Oregon grew from 40,000 to more than 106,000, and private philanthropy increased from less than $400,000 to $1 million a year.

“During his time in Oregon, he was very actively engaged nationally and internationally,” McNally said. “He made a real impact on the 4-H program, and it’s hard to tally all of his accomplishments during that time alone.”

In 1996, Rutledge co-chaired the national meeting of 4-H and Family and Consumer Sciences program leaders, a role he assumed for two more years. He later

became a charter member and vice chair of the National 4-H Congress Board of Trustees, and he chaired the International 4-H Programs Committee. National 4-H Headquarters also asked him to chair the National 4-H Centennial Task Force, and before he retired from Oregon in 2004, he served on the Board of Trustees for the National 4-H Council for two years.

For the past eight years, Rutledge has been trying a new kind of challenge, working for the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation. No matter what role he is occupying, however, Rutledge said his main goal has been to expand the capacity of the 4-H program.

“My passion is really creating programs and exploring new things we can do,” Rutledge said. “Maybe that’s why I’ve bounced around so much. In the end, though, the most meaningful thing for me is watching other people grow in their leadership experiences. I like to watch young people develop the life skills 4-H teaches. I know that’s clichéd, but it’s just the truth.

“I think 4-H is just as important today as it was when it started. I owe nearly everything I have – including my family, friends and career – to 4-H and the wonderful folks I have had the opportunity to work with. I have tried to give something back to 4-H, and I hope in some small way I have been successful.”

Rutledge will be inducted into the National 4-H Hall of Fame on Oct. 12, 2012. Other honors he has received include: the NAE4-HA Distinguished Service Award, Meritorious Service Award and Air Force American Spirit Award; the ESP International Service Award; the Oregon Department of Agriculture Distinguished Service Award; and Oregon 4-H Hall of Fame.

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or the past century, 4-H has shaped future leaders through hands-on learning activities and project work.

It has taught millions of youth important life skills they need to be productive members of society, and it has made a lasting impact on leaders across the globe.

For the past 50 years, the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation has supported the clear mission of 4-H while investing in the lives of thousands of members across the state. In the fall of 2012, the Foundation will commemorate its golden anniversary and 50 years of invaluable support to the Oklahoma 4-H program and the youth who have made and continue to make this unique program so special.

Established on Jan. 25, 1962, the Foundation began as the result of a large estate gift from R.D. Farmer, who made 4-H the beneficiary of his estate upon the passing of his heirs, an event that did not occur until 2007. Now the annual proceeds from this $3 million trust help support program and operating expenses, but 6

2011 Oklahoma 4-H Annual Report

even in 1962, the mission of the 4-H Foundation was always clear. It was here to promote excellence among the youth involved in the Oklahoma 4-H program.

“From the very beginning, our purpose has been to provide support for local 4-H programs,” said Jim Rutledge, executive director of the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation. “Our entire purpose is to support the Oklahoma 4-H program, which means helping to provide incentives and recognition for outstanding project work, 4-H leadership and citizenship. Bottom line – we’re here to help 4-H.” In the early days, 4-H Extension Specialist Ray Parker played an immense role in the development of the Foundation.

“Way back in the ‘60s, the Foundation was kind of an extra thing, so we didn’t spend a lot of time on it,” Parker said. “Its main functions were to supervise the available scholarships and, of course, to go out and try to stimulate more giving by contacting prospective donors.”

Though the Foundation faced several major obstacles in the beginning, the individuals involved believed in the Foundation, put in the work and received the support of several large donors, Parker said.

“We did a good job selling the 4-H program,” he said.

Through the years, the Foundation has grown and changed exponentially, Rutledge said.

“The first year they listed less than $14,000 as assets,” Rutledge said. “Now, because of the endowment funds and the balances in those program funds, we have more than $6 million.”

Rutledge said the positive growth and development would not have been possible without the great advocates who champion Oklahoma 4-H. Through their support, the Foundation has been able to provide funds for 4-H promotion, educational conferences and events, awards, and so much more. The 4-H Foundation gives more than $50,000 in college scholarships every year, and they provide 4-H enhancement grants to promote local club growth and innovative programs.

Though the main function of the Foundation is to provide financial support to Oklahoma 4-H, it also provides young people with the opportunity to expand their views of the world.

“When we can take someone from a rural community who may have never flown on an airplane or been to a big city

and expose them to young men and women from all parts of the country, they are able to see there is more out there than what they thought before,” Rutledge said.

“They are able to realize with an education or goals they can achieve much more in life than they ever imagined.”

Susan Murray was a 4-H’er who benefitted from many of the Foundation’s efforts. She was not only a successful 4-H’er, but she has since devoted her life to the program as a certified volunteer, a dedicated 4-H leader, and the Southwest District extension specialist. She said she has seen firsthand the impact the Foundation has, and she believes wholeheartedly in the future of the Foundation.

“As long as we can continue to show we are making a difference in kids’ lives, there will be people who are going to invest in 4-H,” she said.

Murray’s two daughters followed in her footsteps and got involved in 4-H at an early age. Her younger daughter, 17-yearold Jenna, is a current Oklahoma 4-H Ambassador and a 2011 Hall of Fame winner.

Jenna Murray said she credits 4-H for where she is today and is thankful for the opportunities and experiences presented by the Foundation.

“It’s awesome how this group of peo7

2011 Oklahoma 4-H Annual Report

ple is dedicated to making 4-H the best it can be,” Jenna Murray said. “The fact that the Foundation cares so much about youth development, knows we are the future, and invests in us is amazing to me.”

The Murray family is just one of thousands who have benefitted from the Foundation throughout the past 50 years.

“I still hear from young people I worked with 30 years ago who were involved in 4-H,” Rutledge said. “To know they are now successful business people, educators, politicians, own their own businesses, or work for Extension is such a rewarding experience.

“Oklahoma 4-H has such a rich history, and we have some of the best alumni in the country. We have had outstanding board members over the years who have helped so much in the fundraising activities and have given so much of their time to make the Foundation a success.”

Derek Smithee, the 2011 president of the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation, said the Foundation has been so successful because of its tie to a flourishing program.

“Many youth programs are strug-

gling financially now, but 4-H is so basic to teaching youth to be successful adults,” Smithee said. “It has a strong foundation, and I am really excited about the next 50 years. I fully expect the Foundation to continue to grow and generate more funds to help kids for many years to come.”

From left to right: 1) Ira Hollar (far right), one of the principal players in the beginning of the 4-H Foundation and a National 4-H Hall of Fame member, chaperones a group of Oklahoma 4-H’ers during National 4-H Conference at the U.S. Capitol. 2) Johnny Bench (left), a former Caddo Co. 4-H’er and a Major League Baseball Hall of Fame catcher, receives the Outstanding 4-H Alumni Award from Derek Smithee, past president of the 4-H Foundation.

3) The 1973 National 4-H Congress delegation.

National Congress is one of the many annual trips sponsored by the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation. 4) Oklahoma 4-H legends (left to right) Kirsten Mcintyre-Gantz, Barbara Hatfield, Pete Williams, Ray Parker and Mary Sue Sanders lead the 4-H Pledge at the Green Tie Gala commemorating the 100th Anniversary of Oklahoma 4-H. Hatfield, Williams, Parker and Sanders have all been inducted into the National 4-H Hall of Fame. 5) Oklahoma 4-H’ers Shelby Black and Jenna Murray speak at 4-H Day at the Capitol on April 19, 2011.

Photo courtesy of Donna Dollins 8

2011 Oklahoma 4-H Annual Report

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n every neighborhood, socially responsible Americans have countless opportunities to give back to their community. They can volunteer at a local animal shelter, clean the city park, donate to a food bank, or even help an elderly neighbor get his or her groceries. Garrett Dollins of Perkins, Okla., has developed a creative new way to combine some of these traditional service projects, revolutionizing community service and altering negative perceptions of youth in his hometown.

“There are a lot of food closets and pantries in my area, and that’s great,” said Garrett, who is a junior at Perkins-Tryon High School and an active member of the Perkins 4-H Club. “But I wanted to do something different.”

Last summer, Garrett decided not to get a job because of all the mission trips, camps, and activities he was planning to attend. To fill his free time, his father told him he could haul away all the scrap metal at their shop, and that project caused the wheels to start turning in Garrett’s mind.

He decided he could sell the scrap metal and donate the money.

“As he was thinking of service projects for this year, [Garrett] wanted a project that fit his interests and served the community,” said W.E. Dollins, Garrett’s father.

“Knowing the schools were looking at their third year of budget cuts and with his interest in metal work, it only took a little research for him to come up with his Scrap 4 Helping Schools (S4HS) project.”

Tanner Bridenstine (left) and Stetson Freeman (center) assist Garrett Dollins in loading scrap metal for Garrett’s S4HS service project. All proceeds of the service project go to the Perkins Tryon Schools for first aid and safety supplies.

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2011 Oklahoma 4-H Annual Report

Through S4HS, Garrett advertises his willingness to pick up scrap metal throughout his community. When he gets a call from someone in need of his help, he visits the location alone to assess what tools he’ll need to get the job done, then he comes back and collects all the scrap metal at the site. He breaks down any large pieces into smaller, more valuable sections and then delivers the load to the scrap yard.

He has donated all his earnings to the four schools in the Perkins-Tryon system, earmarking the money for much needed first-aid supplies and athletic safety equipment. Thus far, he has given more than $650; his goal is to donate $1,000 by the end of the school year.

“This project means a lot to me because it’s a win-win situation for everyone,” Garrett said. “There are a lot of people in Perkins, especially elderly people, who are not able to do this kind of work by themselves, nor do they have family members who live close by to do it. Our schools also need the help; I found out that one school in our system actually ran out of band-aids!”

S4HS has also provided several opportunities for younger 4-H members to help in the community. Garrett said he has taken some of them with him when he cleans up a site, teaching them about safety and giving them a chance to help their community in ways they may never have considered before.

“I thought it was really cool to get to go junkin’ with Garrett,” said Mattlin Stanek, a junior 4-H’er from Perkins. “He let us help drag stuff to the trailer and help load it up. I was glad to help because the money we raised is going to help our school.”

Garrett has also involved other young people in the community, including his fel-

low members of the National Honor Society. In addition, he has worked to spread his project by giving presentations about S4HS to other 4-H clubs in Payne County.

“As one of the older members in our club, he provides a great role model for the younger kids just getting started with their 4-H career,” said Becky Carroll, who is one of Garrett’s 4-H leaders. “The scrap project is not only helping the school by providing needed safety items, but it is also cleaning up the community and recycling metal for other uses. The community has responded well. It seems that many people have items on their property that need to be cleaned up.”

The project has actually gained more attention than he had originally anticipated, Garrett said. His story has been published in several newspapers and is featured on the Revolution of Responsibility page of the national 4-H website.

“I think it’s important that kids my age show we’re not the ‘bad generation,’” Garrett said. “But that’s really not the most important reason I do this. It’s fun. People in the community are so appreciative that someone my age has the initiative and the drive to do a project like this. When we’re working on a site, the owner does everything they can to help out by giving us refreshments; sometimes it’s hard to actually get the work done because we take so many breaks! When they’re like that, though, you get a great feeling inside that let’s you know you’re doing a good thing.”

In addition to 4-H, Garrett is currently a member of the Perkins-Tryon High School basketball team, FFA and NHS. After graduation, he plans to attend Oklahoma State University and get a degree in mechanical engineering.

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ow big is a $1 million check?

When it is given to the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation, it is big enough to generate funding for 40 or even 50 new scholarships for deserving 4-H members.

“When it’s presented at State 4-H Roundup in front of 1,000 4-H’ers and their leaders, it’s enough to get everyone 10

2011 Oklahoma 4-H Annual Report

excited,” said Jim Rutledge, executive director of the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation.

“It’s the largest scholarship donation in the history of the Oklahoma 4-H program.”

The $1 million gift, which has been named the Rule of Law 4-H Scholarship Program, will produce approximately $40,000 annually and will be used to fund

scholarships for deserving 4-H’ers.

“At a 4 percent or 5 percent interest rate, the money will have a high yield and have a tremendous multiplying effect,” said Rodd Moesel, a past president of the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation who helped design the Rule of Law 4-H Scholarship Program. “This donation is especially ex-

citing because the gift is so large. Since the Foundation typically issues about $50,000 in scholarships each year, this single donation will nearly double the amount already given. It’s an amazing gift, and we’re really excited about the effect this is going to have.”

These new funds were made possible thanks to Terry Stowers, a former 4-H’er, the father of an Oklahoma 4-H Hall of Fame winner, and a generous donor to the 4-H Foundation.

“Being a 4-H dad himself,Terry understood all the good things that could come from the additional scholarship support for 4-H members and alumni,” Rutledge said. “He is with the law firm of Burns and Stowers and represented mineral rights owners in a class action lawsuit. As a result of the suit there were unclaimed funds left to be distributed for what is called ‘cy pres’ or ‘next best use.’”

Stowers, who had just donated $25,000 to the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation from his personal funds, worked with The Honorable Gerald H. Riffe, associate district judge for the District Court in Beaver, Okla., to secure funding from the class action suit for the Foundation.

“He convinced the judge to assign some of the funds to the 4-H Foundation,” Moesel said. “Funds also went to universities throughout northern Oklahoma, including Oklahoma State University.

Though all of these organizations are worthy of additional support, it was mainly Terry’s enthusiasm for the programs that convinced the judge.”

Upon the receipt of the new money, Moesel and Charles Cox, state 4-H program leader, consulted on the final design of the Rule of Law 4-H Scholarship Program. The funds will provide four types of scholarships, including supplemental support for under-funded scholarships, new graduating senior scholarships based upon financial need, 4-H alumni scholarships for continued study, and travel scholarships for club members who need a little extra financial support.

“Scholarships have always played a big part in the 4-H program and will continue to do so,” Cox said. “We appreciate all of our donors who make it possible for us to distribute thousands of dollars’ worth of 11

2011 Oklahoma 4-H Annual Report

scholarships each year. We have so many worthy 4-H’ers who truly need financial aid to afford college, and I am excited that we will be able to help so many more of our members achieve their goals.”

Moesel said he was enthusiastic about the new scholarship program because he hopes it will entice more young 4-H’ers to remain a member throughout high school.

He said the additional monetary support should give them opportunities of which former 4-H’ers could only dream.

“I know the impact 4-H had on my life,” he said. “It took a shy, introverted kid and taught him confidence, public speaking skills, and the drive to succeed.

I’ve seen what it has done for my brothers and sisters and other 4-H’ers I’ve met throughout the years. I’ve seen the overall impact it can have in other people’s lives, and I cannot help but conclude that this is a wonderful program. Hopefully all of these new scholarships will let even more young people experience 4-H at its finest and make it possible for them to have a successful college career after their 4-H years are over.”

If you would like more information about the Rule of Law 4-H Scholarship Program or would like to learn how you or your organization could support the Oklahoma 4-H program, please contact Rutledge by calling 405-744-5390 or sending an email to jim.rutledge@okstate.edu.

Opposite: A $1 million check was presented to the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation during the recent Oklahoma 4-H Roundup that took place at Oklahoma State University.The donation was the largest in the history of the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation and will create 40 to 50 new scholarships for club members. Pictured in the check presentation are (left to right) James Trapp, associate director of the Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service; Charles Cox, state 4-H program leader;Terry Stowers, representing the Rule of Law Education Fund; Rodd Moesel, 4-H Foundation past-president; Jim Rutledge, 4-H Foundation executive director; and Derek Smithee, the 2011 4-H Foundation president.

Here is a brief description of the judge’s order that helped create the new funding: The cornerstone of our society is the ‘Rule of Law.’” The Rule of Law is a legalpolitical regime that guarantees government accountability and protection of rights of individuals through equal access to a transparent and independent judicial system. Our judicial system has numerous safeguards and procedural devices to ensure this equal access and protection.

One of those devices is the class action.

In 1976, U.S. Supreme Court Justice William Douglas, the longest serving justice in U.S. history, proclaimed, “In our society that is growing in complexity there are bound to be innumerable people who would go begging for justice without the class action. The class action is one of the few legal remedies the small claimant has against those who command the status quo.

I would strengthen his hand with the view of creating a system of law that dispenses justice to the lowly as well as to those liberally endowed with power and wealth.”

The Rule of Law Education Fund was created by order of the Honorable Gerald H. Riffe, Associate District Judge for the District Court of Beaver County, as part of a class action cy pres distribution for the purpose of advancing the Rule of Law in Oklahoma through the promotion of leadership, citizenship and education of our youth. The Rule of Law Education Fund was made possible through the joint efforts of attorneys Douglas E. Burns and Terry L. Stowers of Burns and Stowers, P.C., Allen DeVore of the DeVore Law Firm and R. Jamie Kee of Trippet, Kee, Trippet and Parsons, as well as the class representative, Lobo Exploration Company.

While we have continued our normal lives here in the United States, hundreds of thousands of American soldiers have been fighting in the Middle East for more than a decade. Countless people have died in these confrontations, and thousands more remain in the difficult circumstances created by the seemingly endless war in Afghanistan. One Cleveland County 4-H’er, however, has devoted hundreds of hours over the past two years to help these brave U.S. troops receive a little comfort from home.

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or most of us, hugs are a valuable way to connect with other people and express ourselves. We give hugs when we see old friends, we extend hugs to those who are mourning, and we proffer hugs to congratulate each other on major accomplishments. Hugs are important, but they are not necessarily essential; yet, for a soldier fighting in the war in Afghanistan, a “hug” could very well save his or her life.

The Hugs Project is an Oklahomabased, non-profit initiative that sends more than 9,000 care packages annually to U.S. military personnel serving overseas. Each of these care packages contains a “hug,” a homemade cooling device soldiers place around their necks that can keep them cool for hours, reducing their body tem-

peratures by about five degrees Fahrenheit.

Kaylee Young, an active 4-H member from Cleveland County, has been involved with The Hugs Project for two years. Throughout that time, she has spent more than 236 hours volunteering with the organization and has raised more than $8,000 to support its efforts.

“The Hugs Project is my favorite project for 4-H,” said Kaylee, who is 15 years old and will be a sophomore in high school in the fall of 2012. “Right now, I can’t go overseas and walk in the desert in 120 degree weather all day. I can’t dig a foxhole or drive a Humvee, and I can’t carry 120 pounds on my back to fight for our freedom. But there’s one thing I can do to help our soldiers. I can make care packages to

send to the military in Afghanistan to show them we care and support our troops.”

Ever since she visited The Hugs Project on a field trip in 2010, Kaylee has been doing just that. She has helped put together the unique care packages that have aided so many American soldiers. The care packages sent from The Hugs Project include “hugs,” hygiene items, DVDs and CDs, pillows, socks, homemade cookies, survivor bracelets, blank cards to be returned to loved ones at home, and even baby wipes, which, according to Kaylee, could be the only “shower” a soldier gets in a whole month or even longer.

“My husband and I thought it was really important that every American serving in harm’s way know they’re appreciated

Photo courtesy of Katrina Young 12

2011 Oklahoma 4-H Annual Report

During 4-H Day at the Capitol, Kaylee Young of Cleveland County 4-H shared her 4-H project work with Representative Scott Martin, who represents District 46 in the Oklahoma state legislature. Kaylee told him about The Hugs Project, an international, non-profit organization that has delivered more than 435 tons of items in care packages to American military personel serving overseas. Kaylee has worked extensively with the project and has handmade nearly 1,900 items to place in care packages.

and that we respect what they’re doing for us,” said Karen Stark, co-founder of The Hugs Project, which she and her husband began in 2004 and has since spread from its original location in Oklahoma to every other state in the nation and 54 foreign countries. “We thought if we could send them a little taste of home, it would not only give them some useful items but it would add to the knowledge that people back home love and care for them and want to help them get through this.”

Kaylee, who has two cousins who have served in the military, said this was a particularly personal project to her.

“We got to send a package to our Cleveland County 4-H shooting sports coach, who has been deployed several times,” she said. “He enjoyed that, and I enjoyed being able to help a friend. It’s a way our family can give back to the military.”

Kaylee has helped The Hugs Project in more ways than simply putting together care packages, however. She has created several promotional videos for the initiative and given dozens of speeches and workshops to organizations across the state, efforts that have recruited five new, dedicated volunteers to the initiative. In the fall of 2011 she also brought more than 120 4-H’ers from the Southwest District to help with The Hugs Project during the district’s annual Youth Action Conference.

“We have a number of 4-H’ers who have families in the military,” said Susan Murray, the Southwest District 4-H program specialist. “The most important things our 4-H’ers learned through this project were probably empathy and being a part of something greater than themselves.

Watching them develop these skills and get satisfaction from the project is really nice.

We encouraged them to find a way to take this project home to their communities.”

This is certainly something Kaylee has been doing. She has also helped with the annual Blazing Sun – Run for Freedom, from which all proceeds went to The Hugs Project. During the run, Oklahoma troops, in full uniform and gear, were intermingled with the runners. The event also offered the one kilometer “Run with a Hero” event for the children who were present, and one soldier ran with the kids.

As the run progressed, the soldier handed out items in his pack to the children. At the 13

2011 Oklahoma 4-H Annual Report

Photo courtesy of Katrina Young

Kaylee Young (center), a 15-year-old 4-H’er from Norman, Okla., prepares for an interview with Priscilla Luong (right), an emmy-nominated journalist from KOKH Fox 25.The interview appeared on their “Good Morning Oklahoma” morning show on Oct. 20, 2011. Kaylee discussed The Hugs Project and the work she and 120 other Southwest District 4-H’ers were doing for the organization. end, everyone running was carrying something, as if they were lightening the load of a fellow comrade.

“All of these things gave people a taste of what it’s like in Afghanistan, though nothing here can really compare to the heat overseas,” Kaylee said. “The children’s run taught them about teamwork and not leaving a man behind.One woman at the event told me, ‘My child will never look at a person in uniform the same again.’ It was a great way to promote The Hugs Project.”

Still, Kaylee’s devotion to The Hugs Project goes even further. She recently organized a fundraiser at Sam’s Club in Norman, Okla. The manager of the store thought both The Hugs Project and 4-H were worthy causes, so he let the Cleveland County 4-H clubs set up a booth in front of the store for two days.The 4-H’ers brought banners and materials describing The Hugs Project, and they took donations for certain homemade items, like the “hugs.” During the event, the 4-H’ers also gave out lists of items for the troops and asked the store’s patrons to donate them.

More than 43,000 items were given over the course of the fundraiser.

The manager believed the event went so well that he is trying to set up a similar fundraiser for The Hugs Project with all of the Sam’s Club stores in the Great Plains

region. Kaylee said she would like to continue organizing fundraisers like this, in addition to her other contributions to 4-H and The Hugs Project.

“I have learned and grown so much since I started working with The Hugs Project,” Kaylee said. “I have learned how to get out, speak, and get people to listen.

Even though some people just don’t want to hear what you have to say, you cannot be afraid to take charge. I never wanted to talk in front of people when I started this.

Now it’s hard to get me to shut up because it’s such a worthy cause.”

In the future, Kaylee plans to become even more involved in the organization and to get more people to understand the importance of what they are doing.

“Working with The Hugs Project makes me feel really good,” said Kaylee, whose efforts with the organization and other projects earned her the first place recreation and leisure arts state 4-H record book in 2011. “I’m just one person, but I can send out hundreds of care packages that show the troops how much I care.

Hopefully we won’t have to send stuff to the troops for too much longer, but until they come home, I will work hard to make sure they know they are loved.”

To learn more about The Hugs Project, visit www.thehugsproject.com.

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Teaching More Than Culinary Skills

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hat do you get when you combine one clue, four secret ingredients, common pantry items and a lot of imagination? You get the Oklahoma 4-H Food Showdown, a new educational 4-H competition that made its statewide debut at the 90th Oklahoma 4-H Roundup in 2011.

The 4-H Food Showdown is a youth culinary challenge modeled after such competitions as the Food Network’s “Iron Chef.” Healthy living is one of the three mission mandates at the National 4-H Headquarters, and Oklahoma 4-H created the Food Showdown to address the need for a new and exciting food and nutrition educational opportunity for Oklahoma 4-H members, said Cathy Allen, the Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension 4-H curriculum coordinator.

In the 4-H Food Showdown, threemember teams of 4-H’ers ranging in age from 14 to 19 create a dish while demonstrating their knowledge of food, nutrition, 14

2011 Oklahoma 4-H Annual Report

kitchen safety, equipment, consumer education and creativity in food preparation.

“From the secret ingredients, 4-H members must prepare a dish and then present information to the judges related to the serving size, nutritional value and cost per serving of the dish, all in 40 minutes,” Allen said. “Depending on the clue, the teams create a main dish, a fruit/vegetable dish, a bread/cereal treat or a nutritious snack.”

Each team uses supplies from the Food Showdown Supply Box, which contains kitchen items such as cutting boards, a food thermometer, knives, spatulas, a calculator, a timer, mixing bowls and other essential cooking equipment. In the 4-H Food Showdown, the teams must present their dishes in a manner that is pleasing to the eye, and they must demonstrate their knowledge of food budgeting by determining the cost per serving of each dish.

“Good nutrition and food preparation skills are essential,” Allen said. “The 4-H

Food Showdown is a fun and creative way we can help today’s youth learn these skills.

They also learn what types of foods and spices mix well together and how to prepare various things to preserve the quality of the food.”

Following the preparation of the various dishes, the teams meet with the judges to answer any questions they may have about the dish. In addition to the competition itself, the participants in this new educational project also had the opportunity to demonstrate what they learned through posters and displays at the Oklahoma City State Fair and the Tulsa State Fair.

“What I love most about the Food Showdown is that our advisers can only help us so much,” said Steven Baringer, a participant from Murray County. “Once the judges reveal the ingredients, it is all up to us to go do the work.”

Baringer was not the only Oklahoma 4-H member who greatly enjoyed the Food Showdown. The competition has attracted

the interest of hundreds of 4-H members both male and female across the state. Numerous teams competed at the district level to earn a spot at the state competition, and seven teams competed in the inaugural statewide event, with the top three teams hailing from Ellis County, Haskell County and Stephens County, respectively.

Lynda Latta, the Ellis County Extension director, said she has gotten a lot of positive feedback from the 4-H Food Showdown participants in her county.

“They work together as a team and have learned that dividing the responsibility of each member helps in preparing a dish and recording details for the oral report for the judges,” Latta said. “This project definitely helps instill many of the life skills that we teach in all aspects of 4-H.” The 4-H program has long been

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2011 Oklahoma 4-H Annual Report

known for teaching life skills in a fun, inviting atmosphere, and the Food Showdown certainly seems to be continuing this tradition, Allen said.

“What sets the Food Showdown apart from being just another cooking-for-fun activity is the educational aspect,” Allen said. “The 4-H Brand Platform says: ‘Young people in 4-H are uniquely prepared to step up to the challenges of a complex, changing world.’ That is what this program is doing for students, preparing them to succeed with their health and education in a complex, changing world. It’s really great to see the whole state getting excited about this and jumping on board. We started from a dream and laid the groundwork.

We’ve learned some things in this first year, but all in all, we have had great success.”

The 4-H Food Showdown has been a

collaborative effort among the Oklahoma 4-H Program, the OSU Department of Nutritional Science and the Robert M. Kerr Food and Agricultural Products Center. Funding for the program was provided by a Walmart Healthy Living Grant and the Oklahoma Soybean Board, with additional support from various other donors.

The second 4-H Food Showdown will occur at the 91st Oklahoma 4-H Roundup on July 26, 2012.

Randi Hoskins (left) and Laura Givens of Ellis County begin planning their dish for the inaugural Oklahoma 4-H Food Showdown. At the event, the contestants were asked to prepare a healthy, cost-effective meal with common pantry items and a handful of secret ingredients: Chef’s Requested 100-calorie steaks, edamame, fresh tomatoes and yellow peppers.

Despite the obstacles presented by the record-breaking drought of 2011, the Loyal Doers 4-H Club in Texas County started the first 4-H-sponsored farmers market in the state of Oklahoma, thanks to an Oklahoma 4-H Foundation Enhancement Grant sponsored by the Hille Foundation.

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his past year, Oklahoma experienced the hottest summer ever recorded by any state in the nation. Sweltering temperatures of 100° F or more were recorded on 101 days of the year, and July’s average temperature of 89.3° F made it the hottest month on record in the United States, according to the Oklahoma Mesonet.

Drought also swept the state, withering crops in the field and forcing thousands of ranchers to sell their herds due to a lack of forage and water. The small community

Photo courtesy of Hooker News 16

2011 Oklahoma 4-H Annual Report

of Hooker, Okla., recorded a scant 6.2 inches of rain for the entire year, the lowest total ever recorded for a single location in the state of Oklahoma, according to the Oklahoma Mesonet.

Yet somehow, despite these major climactic obstacles, the Loyal Doers 4-H Club in Hooker managed to start the first 4-H-sponsored farmers market in Oklahoma last July.

“Despite nature’s attempt to intervene, the market was a success,” said Bradley James, a USDA supervisory meat grader

and the organizational leader for the Loyal Doers 4-H Club. “The youth gained firsthand knowledge about growing produce and getting involved in the community.”

James said the idea for the farmers market originally came from various people in the community of Hooker, including 4-H alumni, homebound elderly and disadvantaged local citizens who did not have access to homegrown produce. The members latched onto the idea with enthusiasm, and 20 of them participated in the service project.

Through the support of the Hille Foundation,Tractor Supply, Pioneer Seed, and countless members of the community of Hooker, Okla., the Loyal Doers 4-H Club was able to hold the first Oklahoma 4-Hsponsored farmers market.The market taught the members the fundamentals of agriculture, horticulture and community involvement. Due to its success, the club will be hosting it again in 2012.

“Some people in our area do not have the space to grow or are not physically able to grow their own fresh produce,” said Ethan Fischer, a member of the Loyal Doers 4-H Club. “Our farmers market enabled them to have fresh produce, and it showed our community that our 4-H group cares about our area and neighbors.

We were excited to do the project.”

With the support of the local Pioneer Seed dealer, the local Tractor Supply store, the city of Hooker, a Texas County commissioner, and an enhancement grant from the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation, the members obtained the supplies they needed to plant their produce, advertise their event and set up their market.

Throughout the spring and early summer, Texas County master gardeners and Extension educators provided lessons, workshops and additional support to the members as they planted and raised their vegetables. The members needed all the support they could get as extreme drought conditions took root throughout the state, James said.

“Unfortunately, the club members experienced the same drought problems as other local farmers and ranchers in the High Plains region this year,” James noted.

“Several members reported that even watering three times a day couldn’t keep up with plant needs.”

Sadly, the drought wasn’t the only problem the club members faced.

“Animals kept eating my plants,” said Gabe Flanagan, one of the club’s members.

“I learned that planting a garden isn’t as easy as it looks.”

Even with these obstacles, the Loyal Doers 4-H Club persisted, and they passed out flyers for their July 30 farmers market.

When the day for the market finally arrived, the 4-H members brought the produce they had fought so hard to grow and sold it to the eager residents of the community, James said.

“Many in the community thanked the club members for having the market, and some community members made arrangements with the club members to purchase produce later as it ripened,” James said. “In addition, some produce was donated to needy individuals in the community, and several club members reserved their best 17

2011 Oklahoma 4-H Annual Report

Photo courtesy of Hooker News

Cody Fischer, a member of the Loyal Doers 4-H Club in Hooker, Okla., said he learned perseverance in tough situations through the farmers market project. He and his family grew the corn on display and baked the cookies pictured above with flour made from wheat raised on their family farm. samples to enter in the county fair.”

After the hard work the 4-H members displayed through this project, the city of Hooker asked the club to re-establish a flowerbed surrounding the flagpole at the city park, and the city of Adams asked them to repair their park’s playground equipment. Because of the success of all of these projects, the Loyal Doers 4-H Club has received several commendations from entities across the state and from U.S. Congressman Frank Lucas.

“It was not intended to create the amount of attention it is getting, but the recognition for the members is appreciated,” James said. “The farmers market didn’t turn out the way we expected due to the drought, but it and the subsequent service projects were successful in teaching the kids the value of community service and leadership.”

The club members said they learned a variety of life skills through the farmers

market, including perseverance, patience, hard work, problem solving, leadership, resourcefulness and responsibility. They plan to hold the market again next year, with the inclusion of several other local gardeners, and they intend to use the money left over from this year to help fund the market in years to come.

“I think it was important to establish the farmers market because of the need for farm fresh produce in our area,” said Braxton Taylor, a Hooker resident and the president of the Loyal Doers 4-H Club. “I think … I know that the farmers market went extremely well, especially with what we had. It went well because of the heart that was put into it.

“Someone could say the customers benefitted the most from our efforts, but truly the kids involved benefitted the most because of the joy and feeling of accomplishment it brought to each of us.”

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Oklahoma 4-H continues to develop innovative programs through the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation Enhancement Grant program.Through the support of our loyal donors – Derald Suffridge,The Southwest Dairy Center, the Oklahoma Pork Council and the Hille Foundation – 4-H educators have financial resources to conduct community-building programs that would not be possible otherwise.

Check out the following stories to learn about just a few of the exciting programs supported by these important grants!

Though Tulsa County Extension Educator Leslie Lewis hoped to reach some youth with her Moo to You program last year when she applied for an Oklahoma 4-H Foundation Enhancement Grant, she had no idea the funds she received would allow her to teach more than 1,700 people about the origins and importance of milk.

Thanks to a grant provided by The Southwest Dairy Center, Lewis was able to purchase paper, giveaways, books and ingredients for various programs throughout the year. She taught workshops at two summer camps and at several community clubs in Tulsa County, set up a display at the Tulsa Zoo Farm Fest, and held a program during the Tulsa County Fair.

Overall, Lewis said the program was well received in the county.

“The youth and adults loved this program,” Lewis said. “Many learned that their milk didn’t come from a grocery store, and I had several adults tell me they had no idea dairy farmers worked so hard.

“The impact this program made on the urban youth and adults of Tulsa County was great. I hope to continue this program and help even more of the urban community understand agriculture and farming.”

According to Latimer County Extension Educator Tony Johnson, obesity is a growing problem among youth in his area.

“Today’s indoor, video game youth society has created a generation of unhealthy children who are inactive and unaware of the fun opportunities the outdoors can offer,” Johnson said.

With funding from enhancement 18

2011 Oklahoma 4-H Annual Report

grants provided by the Hille Foundation and the Oklahoma Pork Council, Latimer County 4-H held a series of fun-filled outdoor events to get youth up and moving.

On March 12, 2011, they hosted the Youth Trout Fishing Derby at Robbers Cave State Park. The 35 participants learned about species of trout and how to catch, care for and prepare their fish.

Next the county held an Outdoor Fun and Fitness Day Camp on June 3, 2011, where the 40 attendees learned about air rifles, archery, fishing and wildlife safety.

To wrap up the year, 60 Latimer and LeFlore County 4-H members and leaders held their annual Dutch Oven Campout and Cookout, featuring pork products.

“Our groups had a great time at the programs,” Johnson said. “We are busy planning next year’s events!”

American youth are falling behind the world standards in math and science. But through a grant funded by the Hille Foundation, 22 youth in Comanche County were able to learn more about science and technology during the three day summer camp “Adventures in Science.”

“The science camp was designed as a hands-on opportunity for youth to experience a diverse array of science-related subjects,” said Lexie Hayes, Comanche County Extension Educator. “The monetary support allowed us to provide an interactive experience, which enhanced learning and made science fun.”

At the camp, the youth learned about plant science, created a “Beanie Baby,” made their own green house, and participated in a discussion on the life cycle of cotton. And that was just the first day.

On day two, the youth learned how to

operate a video camera and edit film. They were taught about food safety and chemistry, and they even learned about forensic science and crime scene investigation.

On the final day of the camp, the kids learned about exercise physiology, muscle endurance and aerospace science. They ended the day with a bang by building model rockets.

“All the students said they enjoyed science more after attending the camp,” Hayes said. “It was an enjoyable experience, and the youth gained knowledge and skills involving science that could be used in everyday life.”

Thanks to a leadership grant provided by Derald Suffridge, Dewey County was able to offer 4-H volunteer training through the unique “Retreat - Replay - Renew - Recharge” program.

The “Retreat” included an overnight stay in Waynoka, Okla., where the volunteers discussed the county’s 4-H programs.

In the “Replay” portion of the training, the participants held an open discussion, giving each other tips and suggestions for programs based on their personal experiences.

In the “Renew” section, the volunteers participated in fun, hands-on activities from a variety of unique 4-H projects. Finally, during the “Recharge” section of program, the participants brainstormed ideas for the coming year. Each volunteer outlined a plan for their local club and received a binder with useful 4-H information.

“This program provided recognition, encouragement and addition training for current 4-H leaders,” said Dewey County Extension Educator Jean Bailey. “The participants shared their ideas and left recharged and ready for a great year!”

Cindy Conner, a 4-H Extension Educator in Garfield County, taught dozens of eye-opening programs last year about healthy living through Oklahoma 4-H Foundation Enhancement Grants funded by the Hille Foundation and The Southwest Dairy Center.

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s most of us already know, obesity has become rampant in the United States. According to the U.S. Center for Disease Control, nearly 20 percent of children and adolescents ages 6 to 19 are considered obese, and 34.4 percent of adults are classified as overweight.

To combat this alarming pandemic, Garfield County Extension Educator Cindy Conner teaches school enrichment programs, workshops and training sessions about healthy living in her area.

Conner was able to incorporate several new tools into her curriculum this year, thanks to 4-H enhancement grants from the Hille Foundation and The Southwest Dairy Center.

In her “Rethink What You Eat” program, Conner presented participants with a model of a typical American dinner and asked them to disclose how much of the dish they would likely eat.Then she showed the attendees a newly purchased, life-sized model of the human stomach.

“It has been quite entertaining to see the expression on participants’ faces when I show them the actual size of their stomach and tell them how it is almost impossible to fit all that food in it,” Conner said.

Conner said she uses these tools to demonstrate how the stomach must be stretched to hold all the food regularly forced into it. She said this is one of the main reasons so many children and adults have become overweight.

“To actually see the size of the stomach and then demonstrate the amount of food we stuff down when we eat has really made an impact on many,” Conner said. “This has by far been the most useful tool I have used in teaching portion control not only to youth but also to adults.”

Conner has given this presentation 11 times to more than 250 children in three school districts, and she plans to incorporate it throughout the coming school year and in Garfield County’s junior camp in 19

2011 Oklahoma 4-H Annual Report

the summer of 2012.

Conner was not content to teach just one healthy living program last year, however. She also purchased several tools to teach the importance of oral care and calcium in her “Calcium: It’s for Your Bones and Teeth” program.

With her Southwest Dairy Center enhancement grant funds, Conner purchased Mr. Gross Mouth, a model of the human mouth showing the effects of smokeless tobacco; calcium test tubes displaying how much calcium is present in certain foods; and bone models showing the difference between healthy bones, thinning bones and bones afflicted with osteoporosis. Conner used these tools to teach more than 275 children and adults in Garfield County how to properly brush their teeth, what foods they should eat to get more calcium in their diet, and how they would age if they did not persistently work to incorporate these habits in their daily routine.

“When I presented this program to the local FCCLA group, they were amazed to see the difference between the models that show healthy bones compared to bones

that indicate progressive thinning and then osteoporosis,” Conner said. “Many people are not getting enough calcium in the foods they choose, and through these displays, I hope to continue to make teens more aware of the importance of calcium.”

Through the several dozen healthy living presentations she made in 2011 alone, Conner has reached hundreds of people and given them a reality check into their habits. She said she was proud to provide such programs, and she would like to teach similarly impactful workshops in the years to come.

“It is my goal to continue to provide programming that will help young people make better choices when it comes to eating,” Conner said. “It is extremely important to continue to educate our youth and adults about the importance of eating right and the ways food affects our lives.Through these grants and our educational programming, Garfield County 4-H’ers will benefit for many years to come because of the assistance of the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation health grants.”

Photo courtesy of Cindy Conner

Garfield County 4-H teen leaders (left to right) James Olmstead, Ricki Schroeder, Morgan Messall and Mandy Schroeder joined Cindy Conner in comparing the size of an actual human stomach with a typical American meal. Conner uses the tools shown above to teach portion control.

HALL OF FAME

At the 90th State 4-H Roundup, two new 4-H members achieved the highest award offered by the Oklahoma 4-H Youth Development Program.

hen Whitney Dockrey heard her name called as a 2011 Oklahoma 4-H Hall of Fame inductee, it was a culmination of years of hard work and her belief in an organization she knows can change lives.

“I believe that being inducted into the Oklahoma 4-H Hall of Fame will make me more dedicated to sharing the 4-H mission,” Whitney said. “I think it will serve as a lifelong reminder that I can help other youth make the best better in their lives.”

A member of the Dale 4-H Club, Whitney said 4-H has given her a way to learn, achieve and succeed. And succeed she has. She has been named a state record book winner in the advanced leadership and childcare projects, served as a State 4-H Ambassador, and been inducted to the Pottawatomie County 4-H Hall of Fame.

“I love 4-H because I believe this organization truly changes lives,” she said. “It definitely has changed mine. The leadership and public speaking skills will always be an influence on my life. 4-H has given me the opportunity to speak to leading agricultural organizations, on the House and Senate Floors at our state Capitol and many other places that have proven to be

the experiences of a lifetime.”

Whitney has put to great use the many skills she has learned throughout her 4-H career. She has served as local club president, county president and Southeast District reporter. She has participated in 130 public speaking events, 110 leadership activities and 87 citizenship projects.

One of her favorite projects as a 4-H’er was Project Linus, in which she made and donated more than 350 blankets to youth and adults in need.

Some of her school activities and honors at Tecumseh High School include student council, FFA officer and National Honor Society.

Whitney is the daughter of Luke and Angela Dockrey and a 2011 graduate of Tecumseh High School. She began attending Oklahoma State University in the fall of 2011 and is majoring in agricultural business. After receiving her bachelor’s degree, she plans to attend law school.

ven before she was old enough to be a Cloverbud, Jenna Murray learned one important lesson: 4-H was fun.

This early realization laid the foundation for the type of 4-H’er she would become – the type that gets inducted into the Oklahoma 4-H Hall of Fame.

“The positive examples set by my older sister and others helped me develop a need to serve others and the confidence to express my ideas and take on leadership roles,” Jenna said. “Today I try to provide that same type of support and encouragement for younger members at the local and county levels.”

Jenna used her leadership skills throughout her 4-H career. She has shared her talents and skills with almost 24,000 youth and adults through more than 1,500 presentations, workshops and service projects. She has held 4-H offices at the local, county and district levels; is an Oklahoma 4-H Ambassador; was selected to attend

National 4-H Conference; and has spoken at the Governor’s Water Conference for the past four years. Jenna has also received the Masonic Student of Today Award and exhibited the champion Duroc Barrow at the Arizona National Livestock Show.

Jenna said she is thankful for all of her 4-H experiences.

“If I hadn’t become a 4-H member, I would’ve missed out on the project and process skills that I have learned over the past eight years,” she said. “I would’ve missed the opportunity to hone my public speaking and teaching skills, and I would’ve missed the opportunity to develop lifelong friendships with peers who have similar goals.

“As a 4-H member, I have been blessed with many opportunities, and I have developed skills that will continue to serve me through high school, college and adulthood. It is my hope that my actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do

more and become more.”

Jenna is the daughter of Kent and Susan Murray and a senior at Fletcher High School. She plans to attend Oklahoma State University in the fall of 2012 and major in agricultural communications.

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OUTSTANDING T

he Outstanding 4-H Alumni Award is given to former 4-H members who have made significant contributions to their communities since they completed their days as a 4-H member. In 2011, three such members were honored with this award: Joe Dorman, Ron Justice and Terry Nelson.

JOE DORMAN has served as the Oklahoma State Representative for District 65 since 2002, but before he was a successful politician, Dorman was a Grady County 4-H member. During his eightyear 4-H career, he was selected as the state and national entomology project winner, and he was inducted into Oklahoma 4-H Key Club. Dorman credits 4-H with turning him from an introvert into a well-spoken politician. As a member of the Oklahoma House of Representatives, Dorman was the first freshman legislator ever named Assistant Majority Floor Leader. At the community level, he serves on innumerable boards and committees, and he is serving his second term as a board member for the Oklahoma 4-H Foundation.

RON JUSTICE has had ties to 4-H, Oklahoma State University and agriculture his entire life. After growing up as a 4-H member in Blaine County and receiving both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in agricultural education from OSU, Justice started a long and successful career as an Extension Educator. His first position was in Kansas City, Kansas. After three years, he returned to Oklahoma to work in Muskogee and Alfalfa Counties before settling in Grady County, where he spent the remainder of his 31-year career in Extension. In 2004, he was selected as the 21

2011 Oklahoma 4-H Annual Report

Oklahoma State Senator for District 23.

Throughout his career, Justice has used the skills he learned in 4-H to benefit his community, and he has always supported the 4-H program, even in his elected office.

TERRY NELSON is truly a 4-H legacy.

As the son of an Extension Educator, Nelson spent a full 10 years as a 4-H member, during which he was active in numerous projects and inducted into Oklahoma 4-H Key Club and Woodward County 4-H Hall of Fame. After graduating from college, Nelson began his career as an Extension Educator. He spent most of his career in Beaver and Woodward Counties, and he retired after 31 years of service. Nelson said the skills he learned in 4-H have benefitted him throughout his career and his personal life. Today Nelson serves as a state volunteer for the 4-H shooting sports program, and he lives in Stillwater, Okla.

contests. Without Savely, Oklahoma 4-H shooting sports would not be the same.

THE B.A. PRATT FAMILY has

always been incredibly supportive of the Oklahoma 4-H Program. Benjamen Albert Pratt served for 20 years as the State 4-H Club Agent during the most formative era in Oklahoma 4-H history. Appointed in 1921, he was present at the first National 4-H Congress and the first National 4-H Camp, and he was inducted into the National 4-H Hall of Fame in 2011. To commemorate his amazing legacy, the B.A. Pratt family honored him with a large scholarship endowment. B.A. Pratt’s daughter, Jean Garrett, and his grandduaghter, Kathleen Jackson, started the scholarship fund several years ago. Since then his grandson, Bill Pratt, and Bill’s wife Linda Pratt have added to the fund. It now totals approximately $57,000, and it provides two scholarships a year to outstanding 4-H alumni who attend Oklahoma State University.

HILLCREST AND EAGLE HEIGHTS

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he Oklahoma Partner in 4-H award is given to individuals and organizations who have provided significant support to Oklahoma 4-H through contributions of time and/or financial support. This year’s deserving recipients included: Rod Savely, the B.A. Pratt family, Hillcrest Baptist Church and Eagle Heights Baptist Church.

ROD SAVELY is an avid supporter of

the Oklahoma 4-H shooting sports project. He has been a shooting sports volunteer in Woodward County for countless years and made innumerable contributions to the program. Savely has helped organize many state events, taken teams to various national contests, and even designed the score sheets for several shooting sports

Baptist Churches have become true assets to the Oklahoma 4-H program. Because the Oklahoma State University campus is often difficult to negotiate and has onerous parking regulations, Oklahoma 4-H has often held its state programs at other event centers in the Stillwater, Okla., area.

The cost of renting such centers greatly increased the registration fees for many 4-H events; however, for the past several years, these two churches have been gracious in allowing 4-H to use their spaces for inservice trainings, record book judging, and record book interviews. This in-kind support has saved 4-H thousands of dollars. At the same time, these charitable churches have become popular locations for educators, volunteers and members because of their easy-to-find locations and vast parking lots.

4-H Entrepreneurship Scholarship Charles and Betty Smith Makenna Rogers

All Other Projects Science &Technology Charles and Betty Smith Matthew Horinek

4-H Hall of Fame Farm Credit Services of Oklahoma Whitney Dockery & Jenna Murray

All Other Projects Small Animal Jay and Janie Hesser Memorial & Jay and Beverly Hesser Memorial Mitch Miller

Achievement Harold & Edith Shaw Memorial MaKenna Rogers Advanced Achievement Vernon & Ronda McKown Endowment Kendra Rash Elvin Lindley Advanced Agriculture OK LP Gas RM&S Commission Erica Doggett Advanced Citizenship Mike Synar Memorial & Friends of Okla. 4-H Taler Sawatzky Advanced Family & Consumer Sciences Oklahoma Extension Association of Family and Consumer Sciences & Oklahoma Association of Extension 4-H Agents Alicia Daniel Agriculture Kunc Family Farms Gabe Lomon Allan & Dorris Goodbary Scholarship Goodbary Family Maddi Shires All Other Project Ag & Nat. Resources Gary and Becky Stone & OklahomaVegetation Management Association Wooby Armstrong All Other Projects Family & Consumer Sciences Friends of Oklahoma 4-H Tori Burris 22

2011 Oklahoma 4-H Annual Report

Fabrics & Fashions Wilma Wendt Patillo & Bunny Franzmann Memorial Katy Layman Floyd & Viola Hartman Scholarship Floyd andViola Hartman Memorial Coy Pfieffer

B. A. Pratt Memorial Scholarship B.A. Pratt Memorial Endowment James Taylor

Food Science Edwin andWinona Presley Memorial William Derryberry

Beef Kunc Family Farms Levi Shelby

Geology OERB Nicole Ashton

Breads Shawnee Milling Co. Madison Rash

Goats Canadian County Goat Producers Association Garrett Butler

Child Care Kathy Rutledge Memorial Heather Crow

Harold & Jeanne Gibson Memorial Scholarship Harold and Jeanne Gibson Memorial Brian Highfill

Citizenship Gene and Judy McKown Endowment Logan Shelton Collegiate 4-H Scholarship Oklahoma State University Chapter of Collegiate 4-H Taylor Harbuck Conservation of Natural Resources Oklahoma Association of Conservation Districts & Oklahoma Vegetation Management Association Blake Miller Dairy Southwest Dairy Center Shannon Vanderlaan Dana Smith Memorial Scholarship Friends of Oklahoma 4-H Kendra Rash

Health & Fitness Oklahoma Association of Electric Cooperatives Katelyn Wade Horse Shawnee Milling Co. & Check It Out Donors Terra LaRue Horticulture & Plant Science Oklahoma Horticulture Society & Oklahoma Vegetation Management Association Leo Roberts Hugo Graumann Memorial Scholarship Modelle Pattillo & Hugo Graumann Memorial Robbie Maples Human Env. Sciences Scholarship College of Human Environmental Sciences Karin Leimbach

Ira Hollar Advanced Leadership Bill Doenges Jenna Murray

Safety Oklahoma Farm Bureau Hayley Denker

Key Club Scholarship Oklahoma 4-H Key Club Endowment Barbara Bullard

Sheep Cabaniss Sheep Farm & Oklahoma City Sirloin Club Melissa Combs

Larry D. Anderson Memorial Scholarship Larry D. Anderson Memorial Meagan Rhodes

Shooting Sports Oklahoma City Gun Club Chelsea Blevins

Leadership Jerry and Julie Kiefer Endowment Andi Will

Swine Oklahoma Pork Council Ross Taylor

Modelle Pattillo Memorial Scholarship Modelle Pattillo & Hugo Graumann Memorial Natalie Richardson

Tracey Cox Memorial Scholarship Tracey Cox Memorial Mark Miller

OHCE Scholarship Oklahoma Home and Community Education Association Alison Slagell Oklahoma Youth Expo Scholarship OklahomaYouth Expo Austin Kindschi & Whitney Dockrey Performing Arts Oklahoma City Sirloin Club Tarah Satterfield Photography Tracy Family Endowment Whitney McCollum Public Speaking Quinn Family A-1 Moving & Storage Co. Brian Barton Recreation & Leisure Arts Vernor and Barbara Bockelman Kaylee Young 23

2011 Oklahoma 4-H Annual Report

Veterinary Science Edwin andWinona Presley Memorial Brandi Blasdel Wildlife & Fisheries Oklahoma City Sirloin Club & Friends of Oklahoma 4-H Ricki Schroeder From top to bottom: 1) Madison Rash of Payne County accepts a plaque from Caleb Winsett of Shawnee Milling Co. after winning the 4-H Breads Project during Honor Night at the 90th Oklahoma 4-H Roundup. 2) William Derryberry of Stephens County 4-H accepts his award for winning the 4-H Food Science Project from Carolyn Speer (left) and Cecelia Kouns, representatives of the Edwin andWinona Presley Memorial. 3) Shannon Vanderlaan of Tillman County smiles as she accepts her award for winning the 4-H Dairy Project from Betty Thompson, 2011 Miss Oklahoma. 4) Ricki Schroeder from Garfield County accepts a plaque for winning the 4-H Wildlife & Fisheries Project from Celeste Nelson of the Oklahoma City Sirloin Club.

2% 1% 2%

^ ^ ^

4%

3%

9%

79%

2% 1%

^ ^

4%

3%

5% 6% 52%

10%

17%

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2011 Oklahoma 4-H Annual Report

3%

42%

55%

4-H clubs Military 4-H clubs Special interest/short-term programs School enrichment/after school programs Total impact without duplicates

45,974 766 46,431 70,477 140,378

Farm Rural communities Suburban communities Cities

26.9% 31.3% 19.1% 22.7%

Adult volunteers Youth volunteers

4,454 1,209

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2011 Oklahoma 4-H Annual Report

African American American Indian/Alaskan Native/Pacific Islander Asian Hispanic White More than one race Other

11.7% 13.3% 0.9% 6.5% 63.2% 1.7% 2.7%

Grades K-5 Grades 6-8 Grades 9-12 Post high school Not in school/special options

We are deeply grateful for the generosity of our individual, corporate and foundation donors who supported the Oklahoma 4-H program in 2011. ($1 million and higher) Rule of Law Education Fund

($20,000 - $999,999) OGE Energy Wal-Mart Foundation

($10,000 - $19,999)

Choctaw Nation Enterprises Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Oklahoma Beef Council Charles and Betty Smith Stripes Mobile Campaign

($5,000 - $9,999)

Adobe Foundation ATV Safety Institute National 4-H Council OK LP Gas RM&S Commission Oklahoma Pork Council Oklahoma Wheat Research Foundation Jim Rutledge Tractor Supply Company

($2,500 - $4,999)

American Farmers & Ranchers Vernor and Barbara Bockelman Dr. Herman Orthodontics Farm Credit Services of Oklahoma Vernon and Ronda McKown Monsanto Muscogee Creek Nation Oklahoma Association of Electric Coops Oklahoma Farm Bureau Jeanna Sellmeyer Shawnee Milling 26

Southwest Dairy Center The Nix Foundation The Sirloin Club of Oklahoma

($1,000 - $2,499)

Leeland Alexander AXA Foundation Gene and Ann Benson Emmett Carter Jack and Beverly Chapman Clifford L Knight Foundation College of Human Sciences ConocoPhillips Larry Derryberry Joe Dorman Jim Eden Shannon and Cara Ferrell Dan and Sheila Forbes Kent Gardner Brian Hafner Jimmy Hall Lynda Harriman Cindy Hughes Bobby and Lori Johnson Kiwanis Club of Tulsa Southeast Kunc Family Farms Lakeland Cable TV Tracy Lane Roy Lee and Melissa Lindsey John Maloy Oklahoma Cattlemen Retta Miller OERB OK HCE Inc Oklahoma City Gun Club Oklahoma Horticultural Society Oklahoma Soybean Board Oklahoma Vegetation

Management Association Sam and Glenna Ott Sue Peyton Amy J. Pierce Pittsburg County 4-H Carl and Mary Sue Sanders

2011 Oklahoma 4-H Annual Report

John and Julie Schurman Gwen Shaw Patsiann Smith Stockmans Bank Terry and Annette Stowers Derald Suffridge Clayton Taylor Dixie Thomas Verizon Foundation Andrea Volturo Nancy J. Warden

($500 - $999)

35M Ranch 4-H Ambassadors Michael Joe Albert Bill Anderson BancFirst Blackjack Construction Joe Cabaniss Jered Davidson Mary Deaton Drilling Fluids Technology Mary Louise Fields Horizon Energy Services Kent and Barbara Houck Indian Eelctric Cooperative Made in OK Coalition Mangum Brick Co. Martindale Feed Mill Nationwide Environmental Services OEAFCS Oklahoma Association of Conservation Districts Oklahoma Water Resources Board Ray Parker Pontotoc County 4-H Rogers County 4-H Foundation Gary Sherrer Wallace Smith Southwest District Horse Council Stillwater National Bank

Utah State University

($100 - $499)

AKA Stables Susan Allen Debbie Alspaugh Kelly Arrington Kaye Aulgur Bachman Services Evelyn Baillie-Whitley Bankstons Auto Restoration Terry Baransy Julia Bays Tracy Beck Sandy Bendele Dana Bessinger Lee Bixler Dan Bomhoff Wayne Boothe Bradford, Williams, Bradford Mary Ann Briggs Melodie Brinkley Bryan County 4-H Marvin Burns Ricky Burns Randal Burris Caddo County 4-H Foundation Cathy Carr Kristi Chapman Marguerite Christman Citizen Potawatomi Nation Civilian Marksmanship Program Marsha Collum Colvin-Mills Agency Debra Conkling Cindy Conner John Cothren Charles Cox Patricia Crocker Dorlana Crowell Crowley Watercolors Shelly Davis Ann Dillon Discovery 4-H Club

Damon Doye Nancy Dunlap Eagle Wing Apparel Susie Edgar Mark Ely Samuel and Vera Escoe Valeri J Evans Federal Premium Amunititon Dixie Ferrell Judy Ferrell First Security Bank-Beaver Margaret Fitch Cary Froman Frontier City Recia Garcia Suzanne Gilbert Marlin Glass, Jr. Leo Goeringer Margaret Goss Rusty Gosz Kimberly Gray Mark Gregory Cindy Griffith John Deere John and Janice Grundmann Lea Guiney Carl Hamby Barbara Hatfield Pat Heidlage Virginia Hellwege Janet Herren Beulah Hirschlein Geralyn Hoey Lisa Ingle Paul Jackson Sandy Johnson Mrs. Ray Paul Jones Keener Oil & Gas Company Karen Keith Ray Kimsey Kingfisher County 4-H Horse Club David Kinney Melinda Kinney Kivell, Rayment, Francis Isobel Knoepfli Michelle Landolt Carol Laverty Lawton Fire Department Lindley Farm Equipment Roy Lindsey Floyd Allen Lipps Gary Loeffelholz Ryan and Marcy Luter Sarah Maass Masons Lodge #107 27

John Maxwell, Jr. Charla Ann McConnell Steve McKinley Beverly Meeks Messer-Bowers Insurance Darrell and Janie Morrow Susan Murray Francis Nelson Betty Oblander Lucia O’Connor OK 4-H Volunteer Organization OK Property and Casualty Insurance Lois Olzawski Amy Parks Ken Parrott Payne County Bank Ag Youth Merrileta Periard Gaye Pfeiffer Beth Phillippi Pinpoint Monograms Prodigal Hockey Garvin Quinn Rail Unlimited Ramsey Quarter Horses Dea Rash David Ratcliff Jim Reese Karen Richardson Charlotte Richert Linda Riley Regina Ritchie Bette Roby Rocky Farmers Co-Op Shari Roebuck John Roush Robert Rowland Jeff Sallee Seminole City Masonic Lodge Debbie Sharp Jayme Shelton Kathleen Shelts Don and Pam Sherrer Billie Shields Jim Sims Derek Smithee Jeannie Sneed Paula Squires Mike Steele Vernon Stevens George Stunkard Tecumseh Masonic Lodge Carl and Marilynn Thoma Paul and Lola Thompson Joe Trumbly

2011 Oklahoma 4-H Annual Report

Tulsa County Farm Bureau Tulsa County HCE Brian Tuttle Mickey Vanderwork Alan VanDeventer O.H. Williams Eugene “Pete” Williams Sandra Womack Harold Wooderson Richard Wuerflein

($99 and less)

Kathryn Aebi Mary Aebi Kim Arnold Eric Barenklau Patti Barker Madalyn Barker Carol Baustert Claude Bess Suzanne Boles Ann Bowers Larry Brooks Kay Buffington Mary Beth Carver June Cash Matthew Chuning Dee Cooper Ben Costello D’Esta Davison Larry Dewey Joanna Duck Carolyn Dudley Naveda Ely LaDell Emmons Ann Enix Jennifer Evans Kyle Foster Lavinia Frank Martha Gabriel Shalyn Gallaway Robert Gilliland John Gladden R.H. Griffin Kevin Hackett Muriel J Hayes Donna Hobbie Candin Hobbs Lynn Hughes Mae Audell Hughes Impact 4-H Club Tony Johnson Donna Jung Joe T Kelly Gail Kendrick

Gloria King Mike Klumpp Ronald Kouplen Donna Landes Coleta Lewis Burdettya Linn Elizabeth Logan Deb Lutz Jerry Manning Maud Lodge Sandra McKinley Liz McKown McLoud Masonic Lodge Patricia Mennen Barbara Miller Brenda Miller Linda Miller Carolyn Minson Darla Misak Laura Monchuk Patricia Monsees Brett Morris Carol Murphy Pam Myers Newkirk Go-Getters 4-H Sherry Nichols Steve O’Neil Patricia Peters Chris Pool Scott Price Gayle Ritchie Loretta Ross Mona Ryan Adam and Katherine Sallee Larry Sams Arlene Sellers L.D. and Sammy Smith Steven Smith State 4-H Council Michelle Stephens Janice Stokes Becky Stone Holly Stuart Leon Subera Kim Teachey Denise Tulloh Tulsa Garden Club Charlotte Walter Ella Wenman Shirley Williams Ida Fay Winters Alvin Woodruff Harry Woods Mike and Susan Worstell Bill Wynn

Honorary and Memorial Gifts The most enduring of all memorials are those carved in the hearts and minds of mankind. Such sentiments are evidenced yearly as friends and family give to 4-H in memory and in honor of a beloved friend or family member.Thank you to all those who give on the behalf of others. Your care and generosity are appreciated by every party involved.

In Honor Of . . .

Kendra Rash

by Mary Sue Sanders

Don Donahoo

by Dixie Ferrell, Brenda Miller & Jim Rutledge

Sarah Burrows

by Mary Sue Sanders

Erin Robinson

by Jim Rutledge

Dustie Butner

by Randy and Suzanne Gilbert

MaKenna Rogers

by Mary Sue Sanders

Sarah Coffey

by Mary Sue Sanders

Maddi Shires

by Mary Sue Sanders

Chelsea Connel

by Mary Sue Sanders

Derek Smithee

by Jim Rutledge

Whitney Dockrey

by Mary Sue Sanders

Mamie Thompson

by Pontotoc County

Rylee Ellyson

by Mary Sue Sanders

Paul and Lola Thompson

by Pontotoc County

Doris “Arlene� Green

by Martha Gabriel, John Aaron & Burdettya Linn

Margaret Edsel Fitch

by Donna Landes

Evelyn Trapp

by Steven Smith

Raymond Gregory

by Mary Deaton

Sheila Ely

by Mark Ely

Terry Walker

by Beulah Hirschlein

Jewell Griffin

by R.H. and June Griffin

Blair Gee

by Mary Sue Sanders

In Memory Of . . .

Larry Hamby

by Lynda Harriman & Jim Rutledge

Bud Baab

by Gwen Shaw

Elouise Hansen

by Judy Ferrell

Bud Barnes

by Theo and Patricia Fite, Don and Virginia Hellwege, & Maryanne Miller

Robert Heidlage, Sr.

by Pat Heidlage

Annie Jo Gilbert

by Randy and Suzanne Gilbert Shirley Welch Hastings

by Sue Peyton Robin Morris

by Jim Rutledge Bonnie Murphey

by Carol Murphy

Josephine Boydston

by Mona Ryan

Carl Oblander

by Betty Oblander

Geneva Butler

by Laura Johnston Christine Clark

by Recia Garcia

Pontotoc County SE District Action Team

by Pontotoc County

Vivian Cochran

by Ann Enix

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2011 Oklahoma 4-H Annual Report

JD Edmonson

by Bob and Kathryn Aebi, Delvin and Mary Aebi, Eric and Deborah Barenklau, Kay Buffington, Larry and Joan Dewey, Harvey and Naveda Ely, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Gilliland, Loren and Patty Mennem, Darla Misak, Scott Price, Gayle Ritchie, Jim Rutledge, & Leon and Darla Subera Margaret Edsel Fitch

by Donna Landes

Don Hellwege

by Virginia Hellwege France and Leonard Hembree

by Ella Wenman Aileen Hiner

by Phyllis Sams Joe Hughes

by E.R. Kimsey

Hoyt Hughes

by Johnnie and Ann Bowers

Neoma McAskell

by R.H. and June Griffin

Jan Storms

by LaDell Emmons

Jack Johnson

by Tony Johnson

Susan Hayes McNamara

by Muriel Hayes

Gus and Violet Wode

by Judy Ferrell

Louise Keesee

by Charlotte Walter

Charles Monsees

by Patricia Monsees

Walter Knoepfli

by Steve and Tracy Beck, Charles Cox, Dixie Ferrell, Lavinia Frank, Guiney Family, Kevin hackett, Lynda harriman, Mike, Cynthia, and Elizabeth Klumpp, Elizabeth Logan, Liz McKown, Linda Miller, Montellow Family, Susan Murray, Loretta Ross, Jim Rutledge, Marlys Schroeder, Wallace Smith, State 4-H Council, & Shirley Williams

Carrie Gardner Morris

by Charles Cox, Kent Gardner & Jim Rutledge

Gifts in Kind . . .

Jeff Krehbiel

by Jimmie and Beverly Meeks Mrs. Clarence Krittenbrink

by Pam Myers

Jordan Morris

by Alvin Woodruff Carolyn Sue Norman

by John and Janice Grundmann, Josh Grundmann & Ryan and Marcy Luter

Awards and Moore Dan Bomhoff Charles Cox Pinpoint Monograms

Glen and Lena Page

by Mary Louise Fields B.A. Pratt

by Jim Rutledge

The Circle of Champions is a donor organization representing an impressive cross section of Oklahoma residents who are highly committed to 4-H, youth and the future of our nation. It is reserved for men and women nominated by the Circle Leadership Committee and 4-H Foundation Board of Directors who have committed to an annual donation of at least $1,000, which provides financial support to help shape Oklahoma 4-H. Current contributors include: LEELAND ALEXANDER

BRIAN HAFNER

JIM RUTLEDGE

ANN BENSON

LINDA HARRIMAN

MARY SUE SANDERS

VERNOR AND BARBARA BOCKELMAN

RICK HOLDER

GWEN SHAW

JACK AND BEVERLY CHAPMAN

ROY LEE LINDSEY, JR.

CHARLES AND BETTY SMITH

LARRY DERRYBERRY

VERNON AND RONDA MCKOWN

FRED AND LISA STANLEY

JOE DORMAN

RETTA MILLER

CLAYTON TAYLOR

JIM EDEN

SAM AND GLENNA OTT

DIXIE THOMAS

KENT GARDNER

SUE PEYTON

NANCY WARDEN

29

2011 Oklahoma 4-H Annual Report

OKLAHOMA

4-H

FOUNDATION

I N C O R P O R AT E D

30

2011 Oklahoma 4-H Annual Report

Operation: Military Kids

Supporting military families in our own backyard!

Oklahoma 4-H Operation: Military Kids works to create networks of youth workers, educators, counselors and community service agencies in communities across the state to support military children and youth.

Through collaborative efforts, OMK is able to provide fun, meaningful programming to military families throughout Oklahoma before, during and after the deployment of a loved one. http://www.operationmilitarykids.org http://oklahoma4h.okstate.edu/omk 31

2011 Oklahoma 4-H Annual Report

... It’s For Our Kids!

Oklahoma 4-H Youth Development Oklahoma State University 205 4-H Youth Development Bldg.

Stillwater, OK 74074

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2011 Oklahoma 4-H Annual Report