Dear Editor: Rockdale 4-H needs the community's help. Last May, a group of high school 4-H'ers from our 4-H horse club worked very hard to learn about horses and competed in our State 4-H Horse Judging competition. They brought home first place honors - something Rockdale 4-H has never done in this event before.

These now Master 4-H'ers (the highest honor a Georgia 4-H'ers can earn) will compete at the National competition in Denver this January.

Unfortunately, we are still in need of funds to get the team there. The group needs approximately $1,800 to finish paying for the trip so everyone can compete. I have worked with some of these 4-H'ers for eight years and they are very positive role models in our community.

It is quite fitting that Rockdale 4-H'ers took home top honors as the equine industry is Rockdale County's largest agriculture commodity. Not only does horse judging teach the youth about horse conformation, performance and health issues but it also teaches life skills such as contribution to group effort, teamwork, self-motivation, self-esteem, responsibility, decision making, problem solving, critical thinking, goal setting, communication and fairness.

If you would like to support positive youth development and help this hard working 4-H team, you can make a tax deductible donation to the Rockdale 4-H Club. Donations should be sent to the Rockdale Cooperative Extension, 1400 Parker Road, Lobby A, Conyers GA 30094. Just note Horse Judging Team on the check. Thank you for your consideration!