HAPPY NEW YEAR!

The New Year is underway bringing in new programs, new events, and a new name for the MHC C&NN! We had our first meeting of the New Year January 6th and it went very well. It was a very productive meeting because we have a lot of very eager and energetic committee members who are ready and gearing up to do some very notable programs! Here are some key points of what we covered during the meeting

NAME ALERT!!! The MHC C&NN contacted the national Children and Nature Network to notify them about our current progress. They were delighted to hear about our progress and what we are doing with the community. They were elated that they had inspired this area to take action. However, because the “Children and Nature Network,” is the national organization we are unable to use this name. Therefore our committee members are currently brainstorming potential names for this organization. Will it be the Martinsville Henry County Outdoor Community Network? We will let you know when we decide.

Earth Week! Since Earth Day falls on a Wednesday this year and we would like families and other members of the community to participate in Earth Day, the MHC C&NN will be conducting an entire week devoted to the environment! This week, cleverly titled "Earth Week," will start April 22 and last until April 29. Each day there will be environmental events and programs taking place around the Martinsville Henry County area. So far we have an art contest, hikes, and numerous environmental programs in progress. Keep checking this blog to find out more details about this huge event.

The Network

At our meeting which is mentioned above, we discussed some upcoming events that other organizations are conducting. The following are some events and activities that are going on in your area,

New College Institute: They are having a Lecture Series entitled Healthy Hearts on February 12, 2009 at noon

Philpott: March 18, 2009 at 11:00am there will be a ceremonial tree planting of a blight resistant American Chestnut tree at Philpott Lake Visitor Assistance Center in Bassett, Virginia.

Henry County Schools: Good luck to the students of HC because they started their SOL testing January 7. Also I would like to extend congratulations to them for receiving a grant to do stream testing. Great Job!

Master Naturalist: I would like to congratulate the 23 people who graduated recently from the Southwestern Piedmont Chapter Master Naturalist program! They are currently looking for volunteer opportunities to complete their program requirements. Keep up the good work guys!

Patrick Henry Community College: I would like to congratulate them as well for their numerous achievements. They have received a grant for their agriculture department and they are one of the two community colleges that saw an increase in student enrolment this year! Great Job!

Dan River Basin Association: Started their Tuesday Morning Strolls, the next one is February 3rd at 9:00am. They are also conducting an art contest entitled “Picture Yourself on the River,” this will take place during Earth Week. The art is due April 22 and the winner will be announced April 29.

Virginia Museum of Natural History: Recently had a festival entitled Dino Day that went very well. Great Job! They also are looking for ideas or suggestions for their Special Saturday programs. If you have any ideas or suggestions on what VMNH should have for programs during Special Saturdays please email Tamara Poles.