# USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender. Also surprising were: The novelty and simplicity of the mechanism used by fungi and oomycetes to insert their effectors into host cells. For more information, visit www.nifa.usda.gov. But a small stretch of the amino acid chain, which contains four particular amino acids, binds to a specific type of lipid; this lipid is a fat-like molecule that is part of the membrane surrounding the host cell. When the identified four amino acids in the effector’s protein chain binds to the lipid on the host cell’s membrane, it acts like a key that opens a locked door, unlocking the membrane to the invading effector. This discovery suggests that fungal and oomycete effectors might also enter animal and human cells through the same newly-discovered method they use in plants. Thus this phenomenon may, in fact, be an attack mechanism common to fungal and oomycete diseases of plants, animals and humans. Each of these effectors consists of a long chain of amino acids designed to disable a host cell’s immune system. Further research will be needed to exploit this information to develop therapies for fighting diseases caused by fungi and oomycetes. Through federal funding and leadership for research, education and extension programs, NIFA focuses on investing in science and solving critical issues impacting people's daily lives and the nation’s future. Once unlocked, the cell extends itself to engulf and absorb the effector. Previously, scientists were only aware of how effectors of bacteria were able to enter plant cells, which they did through a needle-like structure produced by the bacteria that punctured the host cell’s membrane .   This research demonstrated the possibility that fungal and oomycete effectors could be blocked from entering the host cells by preventing them from attaching to binding lipids. Media Contact: Jennifer Martin, (202) 720-8188 WASHINGTON, July 23, 2010 – Researchers from Virginia Tech have identified the mechanism several important microbial pathogens use to infect plants and cause devastating diseases. To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Ave., S.W., Washington, D.C. The Tyler Team made two surprising discoveries: 1) the existence of the binding lipid (called PI3P) on host cell surfaces and 2) the ability of the microbial effectors to use the binding lipid to invade host cells. The study, published in the July 23, 2010, issue of Cell, also provides insights into how some microbes cause diseases in humans and animals. The identified mechanism is used by fungi and oomycetes (microbes related to algae), including the kind of fungi that are causing wheat rust epidemics in Africa and Asia, and by oomycete pathogens that caused the Irish potato famine of the 19th century and continue to cause crop losses for producers today. “Our findings suggest broad, new strategies for combating the most damaging diseases of the world’s major crop foods, including wheat, rice, maize and potatoes, as well as several nasty human diseases,” said Brett Tyler of Virginia Tech’s Virginia Bioinformatics Institute and leader of the study. The study, which was funded by USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) and the National Science Foundation, shows that once a fungus or an oomycete comes into contact with a host, it may initiate an infection by secreting special proteins, called effectors, that have the ability to enter and reprogram the host’s cells. The discovery that fungi and oomycetes use the same binding mechanism to introduce effectors into plant cells, even though these two classes of microbes are evolutionarily distinct from one another. The presence of an abundance of the binding lipids on the surfaces of plant cells as well as animal cells, including some human cells. 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272(voice), or (202) 720-6382 (TDD).

This discovery suggests that fungal and oomycete effectors might also enter animal and human cells through the same newly-discovered method they use in plants. # USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender. It wasn’t about having honors classes, it was about having a skill that I could always fall back on.” Hafer is counting on USDA’s grants programs to help provide that skill—and opportunity—to both fill the void of retiring skilled workers and improve his students’ quality of life. Through federal funding and leadership for research, education and extension programs, NIFA focuses on investing in science and solving critical issues impacting people's daily lives and the nation's future. The discovery that fungi and oomycetes use the same binding mechanism to introduce effectors into plant cells, even though these two classes of microbes are evolutionarily distinct from one another. For more information, visit www.nifa.usda.gov. Also surprising were: The novelty and simplicity of the mechanism used by fungi and oomycetes to insert their effectors into host cells. The presence of an abundance of the binding lipids on the surfaces of plant cells as well as animal cells, including some human cells. My students won’t stand a chance, however, unless they can prove they can do the job, and do it safely. “The course has me thinking about small projects I can do, maybe even another career field,” he said. The NIFA Tribal Colleges Education Equity Grants Program helped to pay salaries and develop a curriculum for Hafer’s welding students. “The Equity grant gave me the first step on a ladder of credibility and confidence that let me take the next step to complete this project.” The Equity program promotes and strengthens higher education instruction in the food and agricultural sciences and other educational opportunities at the 32 tribal colleges that are designated as 1994 land-grant institutions. Denny is an agent with the Federally Recognized Tribes Extension Program, a NIFA grant program that funds the work of 1890 and 1862 land-grant institutions as they assist tribal communities on a host of issues, including the competitiveness and sustainability of rural and farm economies. Denny is not only a good instructor—he’s also a role model for his students. “I learned how to weld in high school,” Denny said. 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272(voice), or (202) 720-6382 (TDD). Younger students are also attending this class. Project directors at these schools can use the funding to design curricula, enhance their own skills, promote student learning through real life experiences, provide instructional equipment, recruit and retain students, and collaborate with professors at larger schools. But a small stretch of the amino acid chain, which contains four particular amino acids, binds to a specific type of lipid; this lipid is a fat-like molecule that is part of the membrane surrounding the host cell. When the identified four amino acids in the effector’s protein chain binds to the lipid on the host cell’s membrane, it acts like a key that opens a locked door, unlocking the membrane to the invading effector.   This research demonstrated the possibility that fungal and oomycete effectors could be blocked from entering the host cells by preventing them from attaching to binding lipids. Media Contact: Jennifer Martin, (202) 720-8188 By Jill LeeJuly 15, 2010 Jim Hafer’s passion for teaching is second only to his savvy in leveraging opportunity.  Hafer, an agriculture instructor at Chief Dull Knife College in Lame Deer, Mont., noticed a gathering storm of local retirements forming at both Pacific Power and Light’s cogeneration plants and at Western Energy’s coal mines. Tyrone Woodenlegs, 28, works for the tribal natural resource department. Further research will be needed to exploit this information to develop therapies for fighting diseases caused by fungi and oomycetes. Through federal funding and leadership for research, education and extension programs, NIFA focuses on investing in science and solving critical issues impacting people's daily lives and the nation’s future. If we can help them do that, then the local unions will give them an opportunity to complete their job training.” Students agree. “I worked as a welder during my last three years of college.  Welding not only paid for my education, it’s what kept me in school. Animal husbandry, range management and soil science are all part of the curriculum.  When he offered the welding class in the fall of 2009 it filled up in days—the school had to open up another section to accommodate student interest.  That’s when Hafer brought on Kirk Denny, an MSU extension agent and an experienced welder, to help him teach. His students could—and would—fill the coming talent gap caused by the retirement of the Baby Boomer generation. 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272(voice), or (202) 720-6382 (TDD). Thus this phenomenon may, in fact, be an attack mechanism common to fungal and oomycete diseases of plants, animals and humans. For more information, visit www.nifa.usda.gov. # USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender. To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Ave., S.W., Washington, D.C. Hafer, with funding from USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) and the help of a colleague at Montana State University (MSU), would train them. To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Ave., S.W., Washington, D.C. The study, published in the July 23, 2010, issue of Cell, also provides insights into how some microbes cause diseases in humans and animals. The identified mechanism is used by fungi and oomycetes (microbes related to algae), including the kind of fungi that are causing wheat rust epidemics in Africa and Asia, and by oomycete pathogens that caused the Irish potato famine of the 19th century and continue to cause crop losses for producers today. “Our findings suggest broad, new strategies for combating the most damaging diseases of the world’s major crop foods, including wheat, rice, maize and potatoes, as well as several nasty human diseases,” said Brett Tyler of Virginia Tech’s Virginia Bioinformatics Institute and leader of the study. The study, which was funded by USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) and the National Science Foundation, shows that once a fungus or an oomycete comes into contact with a host, it may initiate an infection by secreting special proteins, called effectors, that have the ability to enter and reprogram the host’s cells. “NIFA’s program helped our college leverage its first-time USDA Rural Development brick-and-mortar monies,” Hafer said. As director of the school’s agricultural program, Hafer teaches a host of classes to help students successfully manage tribal lands. Each of these effectors consists of a long chain of amino acids designed to disable a host cell’s immune system. “There a lot of stuff that I never knew was out there until I took the welding class.” Holdstheenemy says he plans to take more courses in the future and gain even more welding expertise. The starting salary for a welder is $45,000, with experienced welders earning $65,000. “Our college serves 275 students from the Northern Cheyenne Reservation as well as students from adjacent, non-reservation communities,” Hafer said. “The Cheyenne average salary is $12,000–$15,000 annually. He made a decision. The Tyler Team made two surprising discoveries: 1) the existence of the binding lipid (called PI3P) on host cell surfaces and 2) the ability of the microbial effectors to use the binding lipid to invade host cells. Once unlocked, the cell extends itself to engulf and absorb the effector. Previously, scientists were only aware of how effectors of bacteria were able to enter plant cells, which they did through a needle-like structure produced by the bacteria that punctured the host cell’s membrane . Media Contact: Jennifer Martin, (202) 720-8188 WASHINGTON, July 23, 2010 – Researchers from Virginia Tech have identified the mechanism several important microbial pathogens use to infect plants and cause devastating diseases. Al Holdstheenemy, 47, a janitor at a local high school has excelled in the program.   “I was interested in the welding class because I feel that it is a skill that I could definitely use.  Whether it be for a hobby or even a career. And so far I have enjoyed the class,” he said.  I feel that I am getting the best instruction, and I feel very comfortable and safe with the class environment.” To create this program, Hafer combined funding from NIFA with a USDA Rural Development Grant, to finance a 3,000-square-foot targeted vocational facility, classroom renovations, and support facilities.

20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272(voice), or (202) 720-6382 (TDD). “NIFA’s program helped our college leverage its first-time USDA Rural Development brick-and-mortar monies,” Hafer said. My students won’t stand a chance, however, unless they can prove they can do the job, and do it safely. Once unlocked, the cell extends itself to engulf and absorb the effector. Previously, scientists were only aware of how effectors of bacteria were able to enter plant cells, which they did through a needle-like structure produced by the bacteria that punctured the host cell’s membrane . For more information, visit www.nifa.usda.gov. Project directors at these schools can use the funding to design curricula, enhance their own skills, promote student learning through real life experiences, provide instructional equipment, recruit and retain students, and collaborate with professors at larger schools. Further research will be needed to exploit this information to develop therapies for fighting diseases caused by fungi and oomycetes. Through federal funding and leadership for research, education and extension programs, NIFA focuses on investing in science and solving critical issues impacting people's daily lives and the nation’s future. It wasn’t about having honors classes, it was about having a skill that I could always fall back on.” Hafer is counting on USDA’s grants programs to help provide that skill—and opportunity—to both fill the void of retiring skilled workers and improve his students’ quality of life. Through federal funding and leadership for research, education and extension programs, NIFA focuses on investing in science and solving critical issues impacting people's daily lives and the nation's future. The Fiscal Year 2010 CYFAR SCP grantees include: Alabama A&M University, Normal, Ala., The Teens Making Impact initiative assists at-risk teens in metro regions with developing coping and survival skills, fostering career development and enhancing leadership and community service activities. University of Arizona, Tucson, Ariz., The Strengthening Families Program focuses on reducing problem behaviors, improving social competencies, and strengthening parent-child bonds through more effective parenting skills. University of Connecticut, Storrs, Conn., The 4-H Teen Urban Gardening Project will teach teens life skills, develop trust and a sense of belonging through supportive relationships with staff, adult community members and each other as they become competent young adults. University of Florida, Gainesville, Fla., The GRandS: Grandfamily Resilence and Sustainability project is designed to strengthen relationships in at-risk children being raised by grandparents through parent education, family interaction, and community connections. University of Idaho, Moscow, Idaho, The Idaho 4-H Afterschool Outreach to At-Risk Communities will bring afterschool programs to two rural communities and one farm-labor housing complex focusing on science and technology, healthy living and cultural and visual arts. Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kan., Linking Food and the Environment: An Inquiry-Based Science and Nutrition Program merges science and nutrition education content with social cognitive learning and self-determination process skills to reduce consumption of unhealthy foods and sedentary habits in diverse racial, ethnic, gender and socio-economic strata youth. University of Nevada, Reno, Nev., Literacy First will encourage the involvement and support of Spanish-speaking parents in their children's lives and learning. Rutgers University, New Brunswick, N.J., Strong Kids, Stronger Communities establishes a variety of educational opportunities for Latino youth grades kindergarten through 8th grade in urban, at risk communities in community club-based programs. Through federal funding and leadership for research, education and extension programs, NIFA focuses on investing in science and solving critical issues impacting people's daily lives and the nation's future. To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Ave., S.W., Washington, D.C. Each grant recipient receives $660,000 over the course of five years. “There a lot of stuff that I never knew was out there until I took the welding class.” Holdstheenemy says he plans to take more courses in the future and gain even more welding expertise. To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Ave., S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272(voice), or (202) 720-6382 (TDD). Hafer, with funding from USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) and the help of a colleague at Montana State University (MSU), would train them. The presence of an abundance of the binding lipids on the surfaces of plant cells as well as animal cells, including some human cells.   This research demonstrated the possibility that fungal and oomycete effectors could be blocked from entering the host cells by preventing them from attaching to binding lipids. 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272(voice), or (202) 720-6382 (TDD). Al Holdstheenemy, 47, a janitor at a local high school has excelled in the program. "CYFAR promotes positive youth and family development by supporting healthy environments and providing opportunities for learning and leadership by youth and adults in their communities." For example, in Connecticut an urban gardening project will teach teens from low-income families the leadership and entrepreneurial skills that will help them as they grow into adults. The study, published in the July 23, 2010, issue of Cell, also provides insights into how some microbes cause diseases in humans and animals. The identified mechanism is used by fungi and oomycetes (microbes related to algae), including the kind of fungi that are causing wheat rust epidemics in Africa and Asia, and by oomycete pathogens that caused the Irish potato famine of the 19th century and continue to cause crop losses for producers today. “Our findings suggest broad, new strategies for combating the most damaging diseases of the world’s major crop foods, including wheat, rice, maize and potatoes, as well as several nasty human diseases,” said Brett Tyler of Virginia Tech’s Virginia Bioinformatics Institute and leader of the study. The study, which was funded by USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) and the National Science Foundation, shows that once a fungus or an oomycete comes into contact with a host, it may initiate an infection by secreting special proteins, called effectors, that have the ability to enter and reprogram the host’s cells. Also surprising were: The novelty and simplicity of the mechanism used by fungi and oomycetes to insert their effectors into host cells. But a small stretch of the amino acid chain, which contains four particular amino acids, binds to a specific type of lipid; this lipid is a fat-like molecule that is part of the membrane surrounding the host cell. When the identified four amino acids in the effector’s protein chain binds to the lipid on the host cell’s membrane, it acts like a key that opens a locked door, unlocking the membrane to the invading effector. The starting salary for a welder is $45,000, with experienced welders earning $65,000. Since 1991, CYFAR has supported programs in more than 600 communities in all states and territories. The NIFA Tribal Colleges Education Equity Grants Program helped to pay salaries and develop a curriculum for Hafer’s welding students. For more information, visit www.nifa.usda.gov. “I worked as a welder during my last three years of college.  Welding not only paid for my education, it’s what kept me in school. Younger students are also attending this class. Collaboration across disciplines, program areas and geographic lines, as well as a holistic approach that views the individual in the context of the family and community, are central to Sustainable Community Projects. Tyrone Woodenlegs, 28, works for the tribal natural resource department. This discovery suggests that fungal and oomycete effectors might also enter animal and human cells through the same newly-discovered method they use in plants. Each of these effectors consists of a long chain of amino acids designed to disable a host cell’s immune system. He made a decision. The purpose of SCP funding is to improve the quality and quantity of comprehensive community-based programs for at-risk children, youth, and families supported by the Cooperative Extension System. His students could—and would—fill the coming talent gap caused by the retirement of the Baby Boomer generation. “The course has me thinking about small projects I can do, maybe even another career field,” he said. The discovery that fungi and oomycetes use the same binding mechanism to introduce effectors into plant cells, even though these two classes of microbes are evolutionarily distinct from one another. Thus this phenomenon may, in fact, be an attack mechanism common to fungal and oomycete diseases of plants, animals and humans. To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Ave., S.W., Washington, D.C. For more information, visit www.nifa.usda.gov. # USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender. The CYFAR SCP has two strategic objectives: To support community educational programs for at-risk children, youth, and families that are based on locally identified needs, soundly grounded in research and lead to the accomplishment of one of four CYFAR national outcomes focused on early childhood, school-age kids, teens, and parents and families. "Many American children are at risk for problems, such as infant mortality, poor health, abuse, crime, teen pregnancy and poor performance in school," said Roger Beachy, NIFA director. The Tyler Team made two surprising discoveries: 1) the existence of the binding lipid (called PI3P) on host cell surfaces and 2) the ability of the microbial effectors to use the binding lipid to invade host cells. As director of the school’s agricultural program, Hafer teaches a host of classes to help students successfully manage tribal lands. “The Equity grant gave me the first step on a ladder of credibility and confidence that let me take the next step to complete this project.” The Equity program promotes and strengthens higher education instruction in the food and agricultural sciences and other educational opportunities at the 32 tribal colleges that are designated as 1994 land-grant institutions.   “I was interested in the welding class because I feel that it is a skill that I could definitely use.  Whether it be for a hobby or even a career. And so far I have enjoyed the class,” he said.  I feel that I am getting the best instruction, and I feel very comfortable and safe with the class environment.” To create this program, Hafer combined funding from NIFA with a USDA Rural Development Grant, to finance a 3,000-square-foot targeted vocational facility, classroom renovations, and support facilities. If we can help them do that, then the local unions will give them an opportunity to complete their job training.” Students agree. Media Contact: Jennifer Martin, (202) 720-8188 WASHINGTON, July 23, 2010 – Researchers from Virginia Tech have identified the mechanism several important microbial pathogens use to infect plants and cause devastating diseases. Denny is an agent with the Federally Recognized Tribes Extension Program, a NIFA grant program that funds the work of 1890 and 1862 land-grant institutions as they assist tribal communities on a host of issues, including the competitiveness and sustainability of rural and farm economies. Denny is not only a good instructor—he’s also a role model for his students. “I learned how to weld in high school,” Denny said. Media Contact: Jennifer Martin, (202) 720-8188 WASHINGTON, July 15, 2010 – USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) awarded today eight grants through the Children, Youth and Families at Risk (CYFAR) Sustainable Communities Project (SCP) to strengthen outreach program aimed at giving at-risk children, youth and families the skills and knowledge they need to lead healthy and successful lives. This year NIFA awarded $4,620,000 to eight land-grant universities. Animal husbandry, range management and soil science are all part of the curriculum.  When he offered the welding class in the fall of 2009 it filled up in days—the school had to open up another section to accommodate student interest.  That’s when Hafer brought on Kirk Denny, an MSU extension agent and an experienced welder, to help him teach. Media Contact: Jennifer Martin, (202) 720-8188 By Jill LeeJuly 15, 2010 Jim Hafer’s passion for teaching is second only to his savvy in leveraging opportunity.  Hafer, an agriculture instructor at Chief Dull Knife College in Lame Deer, Mont., noticed a gathering storm of local retirements forming at both Pacific Power and Light’s cogeneration plants and at Western Energy’s coal mines. “Our college serves 275 students from the Northern Cheyenne Reservation as well as students from adjacent, non-reservation communities,” Hafer said. “The Cheyenne average salary is $12,000–$15,000 annually. # USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender. To integrate CYFAR programming into ongoing extension programs for children, youth and families – ensuring that at-risk, low income children, youth and families continue to be part of extension/4-H programs and have access to resources and educational opportunities. # USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.

Ultimately, the program seeks to foster a skilled professional workforce in agricultural research by bringing more qualified students into agriculture degree areas.  “The Challenge Grant unbound my students from the narrow definitions of agricultural education,” Dunkel said. Media Contact: Jennifer Martin, (202) 720-8188 WASHINGTON, July 23, 2010 – Researchers from Virginia Tech have identified the mechanism several important microbial pathogens use to infect plants and cause devastating diseases. Thus this phenomenon may, in fact, be an attack mechanism common to fungal and oomycete diseases of plants, animals and humans. USDA’s Higher Education Challenge Grant, administered by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), was established in 1990 so professors like Florence Dunkel could explore new teaching methods that accommodate diverse student learning abilities. Hafer, with funding from USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) and the help of a colleague at Montana State University (MSU), would train them. The presence of an abundance of the binding lipids on the surfaces of plant cells as well as animal cells, including some human cells. The study, published in the July 23, 2010, issue of Cell, also provides insights into how some microbes cause diseases in humans and animals. The identified mechanism is used by fungi and oomycetes (microbes related to algae), including the kind of fungi that are causing wheat rust epidemics in Africa and Asia, and by oomycete pathogens that caused the Irish potato famine of the 19th century and continue to cause crop losses for producers today. “Our findings suggest broad, new strategies for combating the most damaging diseases of the world’s major crop foods, including wheat, rice, maize and potatoes, as well as several nasty human diseases,” said Brett Tyler of Virginia Tech’s Virginia Bioinformatics Institute and leader of the study. The study, which was funded by USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) and the National Science Foundation, shows that once a fungus or an oomycete comes into contact with a host, it may initiate an infection by secreting special proteins, called effectors, that have the ability to enter and reprogram the host’s cells. But when she got to Sanambele, the community had other ideas about what her mission had to be. It wasn’t about having honors classes, it was about having a skill that I could always fall back on.” Hafer is counting on USDA’s grants programs to help provide that skill—and opportunity—to both fill the void of retiring skilled workers and improve his students’ quality of life. Through federal funding and leadership for research, education and extension programs, NIFA focuses on investing in science and solving critical issues impacting people's daily lives and the nation's future. Younger students are also attending this class. Once unlocked, the cell extends itself to engulf and absorb the effector. Previously, scientists were only aware of how effectors of bacteria were able to enter plant cells, which they did through a needle-like structure produced by the bacteria that punctured the host cell’s membrane . 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272(voice), or (202) 720-6382 (TDD). Media Contact: Jennifer Martin, (202) 720-8188 By Jill LeeJuly 13, 2010 Montana State University (MSU) junior Ashley Williams wasn’t sure about her career passion in 2004, only that she wanted to use her geography degree to work internationally and to make a difference. “Ashley linked with the Mali Agricultural Research Organization (IER) so they could hold participatory, gender-based focus groups with local farmers to explore what the people considered their most important concerns,” Dunkel said. A consortium of three schools may receive as much as $300,000 per project. “In Sanambele, it was malaria that was the most feared killer of children.” Ashley credits Sidy Ba, a professor at Mali’s agricultural college, and IER’s Assa Kante with helping her ask the right questions in a culturally sensitive way, and for helping her get permission from village chiefs to conduct her surveys. His students could—and would—fill the coming talent gap caused by the retirement of the Baby Boomer generation. To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Ave., S.W., Washington, D.C. In fact, the idea to ask the Sanambele villagers about what issue they wanted to focus on came from Ashley.” “Florence gives you a lot of freedom,” Williams said. Tyrone Woodenlegs, 28, works for the tribal natural resource department. The Tyler Team made two surprising discoveries: 1) the existence of the binding lipid (called PI3P) on host cell surfaces and 2) the ability of the microbial effectors to use the binding lipid to invade host cells. The CYFAR SCP has two strategic objectives: To support community educational programs for at-risk children, youth, and families that are based on locally identified needs, soundly grounded in research and lead to the accomplishment of one of four CYFAR national outcomes focused on early childhood, school-age kids, teens, and parents and families. “I would encourage anyone to apply to NIFA for a Higher Education Challenge Grant of their own.” Through federal funding and leadership for research, education and extension programs, NIFA focuses on investing in science and solving critical issues impacting people's daily lives and the nation's future. For more information, visit www.nifa.usda.gov. # USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender. Animal husbandry, range management and soil science are all part of the curriculum.  When he offered the welding class in the fall of 2009 it filled up in days—the school had to open up another section to accommodate student interest.  That’s when Hafer brought on Kirk Denny, an MSU extension agent and an experienced welder, to help him teach. For more information, visit www.nifa.usda.gov. # USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender. To integrate CYFAR programming into ongoing extension programs for children, youth and families – ensuring that at-risk, low income children, youth and families continue to be part of extension/4-H programs and have access to resources and educational opportunities. Applications are awarded annually on a competitive basis. Through her program, however, I developed my interest in science and learned how to conduct research that has carried me into graduate school and a future career in water quality.” Williams’ first research efforts under Dunkel’s guidance told her that diarrhea, mainly from poor water quality, was a major contributor to childhood death worldwide; she had found her problem to address. Since 1991, CYFAR has supported programs in more than 600 communities in all states and territories. Now I work as a Forest Service hydrologist and collaborate with farmers on stream restoration projects to protect the environment,” Williams said. Further research will be needed to exploit this information to develop therapies for fighting diseases caused by fungi and oomycetes. Through federal funding and leadership for research, education and extension programs, NIFA focuses on investing in science and solving critical issues impacting people's daily lives and the nation’s future. To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Ave., S.W., Washington, D.C. To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Ave., S.W., Washington, D.C. “NIFA’s program helped our college leverage its first-time USDA Rural Development brick-and-mortar monies,” Hafer said.   “I was interested in the welding class because I feel that it is a skill that I could definitely use.  Whether it be for a hobby or even a career. And so far I have enjoyed the class,” he said.  I feel that I am getting the best instruction, and I feel very comfortable and safe with the class environment.” To create this program, Hafer combined funding from NIFA with a USDA Rural Development Grant, to finance a 3,000-square-foot targeted vocational facility, classroom renovations, and support facilities. 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272(voice), or (202) 720-6382 (TDD). If we can help them do that, then the local unions will give them an opportunity to complete their job training.” Students agree. Now go do it.’ It’s kind of scary. For more information, visit www.nifa.usda.gov. This discovery suggests that fungal and oomycete effectors might also enter animal and human cells through the same newly-discovered method they use in plants. # USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender. He made a decision. Project directors at these schools can use the funding to design curricula, enhance their own skills, promote student learning through real life experiences, provide instructional equipment, recruit and retain students, and collaborate with professors at larger schools. "Many American children are at risk for problems, such as infant mortality, poor health, abuse, crime, teen pregnancy and poor performance in school," said Roger Beachy, NIFA director. “Instead of listening to me lecture, they developed a holistic integrated pest management (IPM) plan working with the Sanambele residents. She is now working with Ba on a project relating to diarrhea and water quality in villages near Mopti, Mali, the results of which they plan to publish. Ba and Kante both know Dunkel from the time they spent earning their graduate degrees at Montana State University in Bozeman. Collaboration across disciplines, program areas and geographic lines, as well as a holistic approach that views the individual in the context of the family and community, are central to Sustainable Community Projects. The starting salary for a welder is $45,000, with experienced welders earning $65,000. My students won’t stand a chance, however, unless they can prove they can do the job, and do it safely. Denny is an agent with the Federally Recognized Tribes Extension Program, a NIFA grant program that funds the work of 1890 and 1862 land-grant institutions as they assist tribal communities on a host of issues, including the competitiveness and sustainability of rural and farm economies. Denny is not only a good instructor—he’s also a role model for his students. “I learned how to weld in high school,” Denny said. To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Ave., S.W., Washington, D.C. “As part of my grant project, I invited several Malian agricultural scientists and an engineer to work on their graduate degrees at Montana State University,” Dunkel said. The discovery that fungi and oomycetes use the same binding mechanism to introduce effectors into plant cells, even though these two classes of microbes are evolutionarily distinct from one another. “I did this to create and train mentors for our undergraduate and graduate students in the Higher Education and Secondary Education Challenge grant programs.”More than 120 students and faculty have traveled overseas, including Native American students who traveled to Mali from Chief Dull Knife Tribal College, in Lame Deer, Mont., who will be the subject of an upcoming PBS documentary. The purpose of SCP funding is to improve the quality and quantity of comprehensive community-based programs for at-risk children, youth, and families supported by the Cooperative Extension System. This year NIFA awarded $4,620,000 to eight land-grant universities. "CYFAR promotes positive youth and family development by supporting healthy environments and providing opportunities for learning and leadership by youth and adults in their communities." For example, in Connecticut an urban gardening project will teach teens from low-income families the leadership and entrepreneurial skills that will help them as they grow into adults. Media Contact: Jennifer Martin, (202) 720-8188 By Jill LeeJuly 15, 2010 Jim Hafer’s passion for teaching is second only to his savvy in leveraging opportunity.  Hafer, an agriculture instructor at Chief Dull Knife College in Lame Deer, Mont., noticed a gathering storm of local retirements forming at both Pacific Power and Light’s cogeneration plants and at Western Energy’s coal mines. Other undergraduate or secondary schools have developed lesson plans and research projects based on information gained by the travelers. “Anyone can adapt their teaching to this kind of experiential learning,” Dunkel explained. For more information, visit www.nifa.usda.gov. Al Holdstheenemy, 47, a janitor at a local high school has excelled in the program. Professors can also use funding to enhance their own teaching or develop a new curriculum and partner with other schools to build capacity. Each grant recipient receives $660,000 over the course of five years. I never even considered it. 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272(voice), or (202) 720-6382 (TDD). “The course has me thinking about small projects I can do, maybe even another career field,” he said.   This research demonstrated the possibility that fungal and oomycete effectors could be blocked from entering the host cells by preventing them from attaching to binding lipids. 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272(voice), or (202) 720-6382 (TDD). All that came into focus after a chance encounter with entomology professor Florence Dunkel, a USDA Higher Education Challenge Grant and a trip to Sanambele, Mali.  Williams discovered her future in that small farming village of 1,000 people—she found herself as an agricultural researcher.  “Agriculture? But a small stretch of the amino acid chain, which contains four particular amino acids, binds to a specific type of lipid; this lipid is a fat-like molecule that is part of the membrane surrounding the host cell. When the identified four amino acids in the effector’s protein chain binds to the lipid on the host cell’s membrane, it acts like a key that opens a locked door, unlocking the membrane to the invading effector. “The Equity grant gave me the first step on a ladder of credibility and confidence that let me take the next step to complete this project.” The Equity program promotes and strengthens higher education instruction in the food and agricultural sciences and other educational opportunities at the 32 tribal colleges that are designated as 1994 land-grant institutions. Grant applicants may request up to $150,000 for a single school. As director of the school’s agricultural program, Hafer teaches a host of classes to help students successfully manage tribal lands. “There a lot of stuff that I never knew was out there until I took the welding class.” Holdstheenemy says he plans to take more courses in the future and gain even more welding expertise. The NIFA Tribal Colleges Education Equity Grants Program helped to pay salaries and develop a curriculum for Hafer’s welding students. “Our college serves 275 students from the Northern Cheyenne Reservation as well as students from adjacent, non-reservation communities,” Hafer said. “The Cheyenne average salary is $12,000–$15,000 annually. “She says, ‘Find a problem you’d like to solve, here’s the literature for your research, here’s the funding to get you there. Media Contact: Jennifer Martin, (202) 720-8188 WASHINGTON, July 15, 2010 – USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) awarded today eight grants through the Children, Youth and Families at Risk (CYFAR) Sustainable Communities Project (SCP) to strengthen outreach program aimed at giving at-risk children, youth and families the skills and knowledge they need to lead healthy and successful lives. # USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender. The Fiscal Year 2010 CYFAR SCP grantees include: Alabama A&M University, Normal, Ala., The Teens Making Impact initiative assists at-risk teens in metro regions with developing coping and survival skills, fostering career development and enhancing leadership and community service activities. University of Arizona, Tucson, Ariz., The Strengthening Families Program focuses on reducing problem behaviors, improving social competencies, and strengthening parent-child bonds through more effective parenting skills. University of Connecticut, Storrs, Conn., The 4-H Teen Urban Gardening Project will teach teens life skills, develop trust and a sense of belonging through supportive relationships with staff, adult community members and each other as they become competent young adults. University of Florida, Gainesville, Fla., The GRandS: Grandfamily Resilence and Sustainability project is designed to strengthen relationships in at-risk children being raised by grandparents through parent education, family interaction, and community connections. University of Idaho, Moscow, Idaho, The Idaho 4-H Afterschool Outreach to At-Risk Communities will bring afterschool programs to two rural communities and one farm-labor housing complex focusing on science and technology, healthy living and cultural and visual arts. Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kan., Linking Food and the Environment: An Inquiry-Based Science and Nutrition Program merges science and nutrition education content with social cognitive learning and self-determination process skills to reduce consumption of unhealthy foods and sedentary habits in diverse racial, ethnic, gender and socio-economic strata youth. University of Nevada, Reno, Nev., Literacy First will encourage the involvement and support of Spanish-speaking parents in their children's lives and learning. Rutgers University, New Brunswick, N.J., Strong Kids, Stronger Communities establishes a variety of educational opportunities for Latino youth grades kindergarten through 8th grade in urban, at risk communities in community club-based programs. Through federal funding and leadership for research, education and extension programs, NIFA focuses on investing in science and solving critical issues impacting people's daily lives and the nation's future. Also surprising were: The novelty and simplicity of the mechanism used by fungi and oomycetes to insert their effectors into host cells. Each of these effectors consists of a long chain of amino acids designed to disable a host cell’s immune system. “I worked as a welder during my last three years of college.  Welding not only paid for my education, it’s what kept me in school. Higher Education Challenge Grants information is available on NIFA’s Web site at www.nifa.usda.gov. Giving students experiential learning, as Dunkel did, is an important emphasis of the Challenge Grant Program.

Media Contact: Jennifer Martin, (202) 720-8188 WASHINGTON, July 23, 2010 – Researchers from Virginia Tech have identified the mechanism several important microbial pathogens use to infect plants and cause devastating diseases. “I did this to create and train mentors for our undergraduate and graduate students in the Higher Education and Secondary Education Challenge grant programs.”More than 120 students and faculty have traveled overseas, including Native American students who traveled to Mali from Chief Dull Knife Tribal College, in Lame Deer, Mont., who will be the subject of an upcoming PBS documentary. Each of these effectors consists of a long chain of amino acids designed to disable a host cell’s immune system. But a small stretch of the amino acid chain, which contains four particular amino acids, binds to a specific type of lipid; this lipid is a fat-like molecule that is part of the membrane surrounding the host cell. When the identified four amino acids in the effector’s protein chain binds to the lipid on the host cell’s membrane, it acts like a key that opens a locked door, unlocking the membrane to the invading effector. The CYFAR SCP has two strategic objectives: To support community educational programs for at-risk children, youth, and families that are based on locally identified needs, soundly grounded in research and lead to the accomplishment of one of four CYFAR national outcomes focused on early childhood, school-age kids, teens, and parents and families. Also surprising were: The novelty and simplicity of the mechanism used by fungi and oomycetes to insert their effectors into host cells. # USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender. “The Equity grant gave me the first step on a ladder of credibility and confidence that let me take the next step to complete this project.” The Equity program promotes and strengthens higher education instruction in the food and agricultural sciences and other educational opportunities at the 32 tribal colleges that are designated as 1994 land-grant institutions. “The course has me thinking about small projects I can do, maybe even another career field,” he said. Hafer, with funding from USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) and the help of a colleague at Montana State University (MSU), would train them. Since 1991, CYFAR has supported programs in more than 600 communities in all states and territories. “I would encourage anyone to apply to NIFA for a Higher Education Challenge Grant of their own.” Through federal funding and leadership for research, education and extension programs, NIFA focuses on investing in science and solving critical issues impacting people's daily lives and the nation's future. "CYFAR promotes positive youth and family development by supporting healthy environments and providing opportunities for learning and leadership by youth and adults in their communities." For example, in Connecticut an urban gardening project will teach teens from low-income families the leadership and entrepreneurial skills that will help them as they grow into adults. To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Ave., S.W., Washington, D.C. In contrast, in organic fields several beneficial species were about equally common. The Fiscal Year 2010 CYFAR SCP grantees include: Alabama A&M University, Normal, Ala., The Teens Making Impact initiative assists at-risk teens in metro regions with developing coping and survival skills, fostering career development and enhancing leadership and community service activities. University of Arizona, Tucson, Ariz., The Strengthening Families Program focuses on reducing problem behaviors, improving social competencies, and strengthening parent-child bonds through more effective parenting skills. University of Connecticut, Storrs, Conn., The 4-H Teen Urban Gardening Project will teach teens life skills, develop trust and a sense of belonging through supportive relationships with staff, adult community members and each other as they become competent young adults. University of Florida, Gainesville, Fla., The GRandS: Grandfamily Resilence and Sustainability project is designed to strengthen relationships in at-risk children being raised by grandparents through parent education, family interaction, and community connections. University of Idaho, Moscow, Idaho, The Idaho 4-H Afterschool Outreach to At-Risk Communities will bring afterschool programs to two rural communities and one farm-labor housing complex focusing on science and technology, healthy living and cultural and visual arts. Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kan., Linking Food and the Environment: An Inquiry-Based Science and Nutrition Program merges science and nutrition education content with social cognitive learning and self-determination process skills to reduce consumption of unhealthy foods and sedentary habits in diverse racial, ethnic, gender and socio-economic strata youth. University of Nevada, Reno, Nev., Literacy First will encourage the involvement and support of Spanish-speaking parents in their children's lives and learning. Rutgers University, New Brunswick, N.J., Strong Kids, Stronger Communities establishes a variety of educational opportunities for Latino youth grades kindergarten through 8th grade in urban, at risk communities in community club-based programs. Through federal funding and leadership for research, education and extension programs, NIFA focuses on investing in science and solving critical issues impacting people's daily lives and the nation's future. “She says, ‘Find a problem you’d like to solve, here’s the literature for your research, here’s the funding to get you there. In fact, the idea to ask the Sanambele villagers about what issue they wanted to focus on came from Ashley.” “Florence gives you a lot of freedom,” Williams said. Further research will be needed to exploit this information to develop therapies for fighting diseases caused by fungi and oomycetes. Through federal funding and leadership for research, education and extension programs, NIFA focuses on investing in science and solving critical issues impacting people's daily lives and the nation’s future. For more information, visit www.nifa.usda.gov. # USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender. For more information, visit www.nifa.usda.gov. Professors can also use funding to enhance their own teaching or develop a new curriculum and partner with other schools to build capacity. Grant applicants may request up to $150,000 for a single school. All that came into focus after a chance encounter with entomology professor Florence Dunkel, a USDA Higher Education Challenge Grant and a trip to Sanambele, Mali.  Williams discovered her future in that small farming village of 1,000 people—she found herself as an agricultural researcher.  “Agriculture? Now I work as a Forest Service hydrologist and collaborate with farmers on stream restoration projects to protect the environment,” Williams said. # USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender. 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272(voice), or (202) 720-6382 (TDD). “Ashley linked with the Mali Agricultural Research Organization (IER) so they could hold participatory, gender-based focus groups with local farmers to explore what the people considered their most important concerns,” Dunkel said. NIFA funded this project through the National Research Initiative Arthropod and Nematode Biology and Management competitive grants program.            Through federal funding and leadership for research, education and extension programs, NIFA focuses on investing in science and solving critical issues impacting people's daily lives and the nation’s future. The NIFA Tribal Colleges Education Equity Grants Program helped to pay salaries and develop a curriculum for Hafer’s welding students. The study, published in the July 23, 2010, issue of Cell, also provides insights into how some microbes cause diseases in humans and animals. The identified mechanism is used by fungi and oomycetes (microbes related to algae), including the kind of fungi that are causing wheat rust epidemics in Africa and Asia, and by oomycete pathogens that caused the Irish potato famine of the 19th century and continue to cause crop losses for producers today. “Our findings suggest broad, new strategies for combating the most damaging diseases of the world’s major crop foods, including wheat, rice, maize and potatoes, as well as several nasty human diseases,” said Brett Tyler of Virginia Tech’s Virginia Bioinformatics Institute and leader of the study. The study, which was funded by USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) and the National Science Foundation, shows that once a fungus or an oomycete comes into contact with a host, it may initiate an infection by secreting special proteins, called effectors, that have the ability to enter and reprogram the host’s cells. The study, which was funded by USDA’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) and published in the July 1 edition of the journal Nature, shows that organic farming practices lead to many equally-common beneficial species, and that this reduces pest problems.  In potato fields that used conventional control practices (e.g., applications of broad-acting insecticides), usually just one species of beneficial predatory insect or pest-killing pathogen was common. She is now working with Ba on a project relating to diarrhea and water quality in villages near Mopti, Mali, the results of which they plan to publish. Ba and Kante both know Dunkel from the time they spent earning their graduate degrees at Montana State University in Bozeman. If we can help them do that, then the local unions will give them an opportunity to complete their job training.” Students agree. “In Sanambele, it was malaria that was the most feared killer of children.” Ashley credits Sidy Ba, a professor at Mali’s agricultural college, and IER’s Assa Kante with helping her ask the right questions in a culturally sensitive way, and for helping her get permission from village chiefs to conduct her surveys. Tyrone Woodenlegs, 28, works for the tribal natural resource department. As director of the school’s agricultural program, Hafer teaches a host of classes to help students successfully manage tribal lands. “NIFA’s program helped our college leverage its first-time USDA Rural Development brick-and-mortar monies,” Hafer said. In potato crops, this led to fewer insect pests and larger potato plants. “It’s always been a mystery how organic farmers get high yields without using synthetic insecticides,” says co-author Bill Snyder, associate professor of entomology at Washington State University. The Tyler Team made two surprising discoveries: 1) the existence of the binding lipid (called PI3P) on host cell surfaces and 2) the ability of the microbial effectors to use the binding lipid to invade host cells. For more information, visit www.nifa.usda.gov.           # USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender. For more information, visit www.nifa.usda.gov. # USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender. Other undergraduate or secondary schools have developed lesson plans and research projects based on information gained by the travelers. “Anyone can adapt their teaching to this kind of experiential learning,” Dunkel explained. Media Contact: Jennifer Martin, (202) 720-8188 By Jill LeeJuly 13, 2010 Montana State University (MSU) junior Ashley Williams wasn’t sure about her career passion in 2004, only that she wanted to use her geography degree to work internationally and to make a difference. The purpose of SCP funding is to improve the quality and quantity of comprehensive community-based programs for at-risk children, youth, and families supported by the Cooperative Extension System. 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272(voice), or (202) 720-6382 (TDD). To integrate CYFAR programming into ongoing extension programs for children, youth and families – ensuring that at-risk, low income children, youth and families continue to be part of extension/4-H programs and have access to resources and educational opportunities. Once unlocked, the cell extends itself to engulf and absorb the effector. Previously, scientists were only aware of how effectors of bacteria were able to enter plant cells, which they did through a needle-like structure produced by the bacteria that punctured the host cell’s membrane . 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272(voice), or (202) 720-6382 (TDD). But when she got to Sanambele, the community had other ideas about what her mission had to be. It wasn’t about having honors classes, it was about having a skill that I could always fall back on.” Hafer is counting on USDA’s grants programs to help provide that skill—and opportunity—to both fill the void of retiring skilled workers and improve his students’ quality of life. Through federal funding and leadership for research, education and extension programs, NIFA focuses on investing in science and solving critical issues impacting people's daily lives and the nation's future. Al Holdstheenemy, 47, a janitor at a local high school has excelled in the program. 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272(voice), or (202) 720-6382 (TDD). Thus this phenomenon may, in fact, be an attack mechanism common to fungal and oomycete diseases of plants, animals and humans. The presence of an abundance of the binding lipids on the surfaces of plant cells as well as animal cells, including some human cells. "Many American children are at risk for problems, such as infant mortality, poor health, abuse, crime, teen pregnancy and poor performance in school," said Roger Beachy, NIFA director. Now go do it.’ It’s kind of scary. Animal husbandry, range management and soil science are all part of the curriculum.  When he offered the welding class in the fall of 2009 it filled up in days—the school had to open up another section to accommodate student interest.  That’s when Hafer brought on Kirk Denny, an MSU extension agent and an experienced welder, to help him teach. To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Ave., S.W., Washington, D.C.   This research demonstrated the possibility that fungal and oomycete effectors could be blocked from entering the host cells by preventing them from attaching to binding lipids. Collaboration across disciplines, program areas and geographic lines, as well as a holistic approach that views the individual in the context of the family and community, are central to Sustainable Community Projects. “Instead of listening to me lecture, they developed a holistic integrated pest management (IPM) plan working with the Sanambele residents. For more information, visit www.nifa.usda.gov. His students could—and would—fill the coming talent gap caused by the retirement of the Baby Boomer generation. Through her program, however, I developed my interest in science and learned how to conduct research that has carried me into graduate school and a future career in water quality.” Williams’ first research efforts under Dunkel’s guidance told her that diarrhea, mainly from poor water quality, was a major contributor to childhood death worldwide; she had found her problem to address. “I worked as a welder during my last three years of college.  Welding not only paid for my education, it’s what kept me in school. A consortium of three schools may receive as much as $300,000 per project. To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Ave., S.W., Washington, D.C. Each grant recipient receives $660,000 over the course of five years. “There a lot of stuff that I never knew was out there until I took the welding class.” Holdstheenemy says he plans to take more courses in the future and gain even more welding expertise. “As part of my grant project, I invited several Malian agricultural scientists and an engineer to work on their graduate degrees at Montana State University,” Dunkel said. Denny is an agent with the Federally Recognized Tribes Extension Program, a NIFA grant program that funds the work of 1890 and 1862 land-grant institutions as they assist tribal communities on a host of issues, including the competitiveness and sustainability of rural and farm economies. Denny is not only a good instructor—he’s also a role model for his students. “I learned how to weld in high school,” Denny said. He made a decision. Ultimately, the program seeks to foster a skilled professional workforce in agricultural research by bringing more qualified students into agriculture degree areas.  “The Challenge Grant unbound my students from the narrow definitions of agricultural education,” Dunkel said. Experiments showed that groups of evenly-abundant beneficial species, typical of organic farms, were far more effective at killing potato beetle pests. Media Contact: Jennifer Martin, (202) 720-8188 WASHINGTON, July 1, 2010 – A team of researchers from Washington State University and the University of Georgia have found that organic farming increases biodiversity among beneficial, pest-killing predators and pathogens. Media Contact: Jennifer Martin, (202) 720-8188 WASHINGTON, July 15, 2010 – USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) awarded today eight grants through the Children, Youth and Families at Risk (CYFAR) Sustainable Communities Project (SCP) to strengthen outreach program aimed at giving at-risk children, youth and families the skills and knowledge they need to lead healthy and successful lives. Higher Education Challenge Grants information is available on NIFA’s Web site at www.nifa.usda.gov. Giving students experiential learning, as Dunkel did, is an important emphasis of the Challenge Grant Program. To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Ave., S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272(voice), or (202) 720-6382 (TDD). “Our college serves 275 students from the Northern Cheyenne Reservation as well as students from adjacent, non-reservation communities,” Hafer said. “The Cheyenne average salary is $12,000–$15,000 annually. “Our study suggests that biodiversity conservation may be a key to their success.” Ecosystems with more total species, and more beneficial species that arerelatively evenly distributed, are thought to be healthiest.  The use of insecticides harms biodiversity by reducing the number of species and by making some species (often pests) much more common than others. I never even considered it.   “I was interested in the welding class because I feel that it is a skill that I could definitely use.  Whether it be for a hobby or even a career. And so far I have enjoyed the class,” he said.  I feel that I am getting the best instruction, and I feel very comfortable and safe with the class environment.” To create this program, Hafer combined funding from NIFA with a USDA Rural Development Grant, to finance a 3,000-square-foot targeted vocational facility, classroom renovations, and support facilities. To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Ave., S.W., Washington, D.C. Media Contact: Jennifer Martin, (202) 720-8188 By Jill LeeJuly 15, 2010 Jim Hafer’s passion for teaching is second only to his savvy in leveraging opportunity.  Hafer, an agriculture instructor at Chief Dull Knife College in Lame Deer, Mont., noticed a gathering storm of local retirements forming at both Pacific Power and Light’s cogeneration plants and at Western Energy’s coal mines. Project directors at these schools can use the funding to design curricula, enhance their own skills, promote student learning through real life experiences, provide instructional equipment, recruit and retain students, and collaborate with professors at larger schools. Younger students are also attending this class. This year NIFA awarded $4,620,000 to eight land-grant universities. My students won’t stand a chance, however, unless they can prove they can do the job, and do it safely. The discovery that fungi and oomycetes use the same binding mechanism to introduce effectors into plant cells, even though these two classes of microbes are evolutionarily distinct from one another. The starting salary for a welder is $45,000, with experienced welders earning $65,000. Applications are awarded annually on a competitive basis. This discovery suggests that fungal and oomycete effectors might also enter animal and human cells through the same newly-discovered method they use in plants. USDA’s Higher Education Challenge Grant, administered by the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), was established in 1990 so professors like Florence Dunkel could explore new teaching methods that accommodate diverse student learning abilities. Because natural enemies are usually more even in organic crops of many different kinds, not just potato, these benefits could be widespread.