The New York State (NYS) 4-H Office announced last week that John King, Tioga County, has been selected as the NYS 4-H Volunteer of the Year and Ron Niedemaier, Livingston County, has been chosen as the Outstanding Lifetime Volunteer. Both volunteers will be recognized at the New York State 4-H Foundation Annual Meeting on Nov. 12 at the Moakley House in Ithaca, N.Y.
John and Ron’s nominations have also been sent to National 4-H Council for regional and national consideration. Regional winners will be announced in February, and national winners in April during National 4-H Volunteer Week.
John King is an eight-year 4-H Shooting Sports volunteer in Tioga County, N.Y. He first became involved in the 4-H Program when he enrolled his three children in the 4-H Shooting Sports and Livestock Programs.
He then became a volunteer, and is now is the lead instructor in the Tioga County 4-H Shooting Sports Program. A parent in his group said, “He is an excellent youth mentor who promotes the 4-H Shooting Sports program at the county, state and national level.”
John continually focuses on firearms safety, leadership development, and encourages members to develop their skills and take advantage of 4-H leadership development opportunities. One of his 4-Hers said, “Since that first air rifle class, the one that set off the spark in my enthusiasm for shooting sports, Mr. King has taught me and numerous other kids the importance of firearm safety, responsible behavior, and how to properly shoot.”
He thoroughly understands the 4-H Program and is committed and dedicated to its principles and goals. One of John’s fellow instructors says, “The enthusiasm John displays, the interest he takes in the development of the youth in our 4-H programs is infectious.”
To find out more about the Tioga County 4-H Program contact the 4-H Office, Cornell Cooperative Extension, Tioga County at 687-4020 or visit tioga.cce.cornell.edu.
