Hardy Telecommunications is offering local students the opportunity of a lifetime by sponsoring a free trip to our nation’s capital.
One junior each from Moorefield and East Hardy high schools will be selected to attend the 2011 Foundation for Rural Service Youth Tour in Washington, D.C., June 4-8, during which the students will meet peers from all over the United States. The trip includes sightseeing as well as educational sessions to teach today’s youth about the telecommunications industry. Hardy Telecommunications will pay all basic expenses, including travel.
The Youth Tour provides students from rural areas with a first-hand look at the telecommunications industry, and educates students about the legislative and governmental processes. Students will visit the U.S. Capitol Building and hear presentations from representatives of Capitol Hill and the Federal Communications Commission.
East Hardy High Seniors Jesse Cook and Ashley Dove participated in the 2010 Youth Tour. Jesse said the trip was something he’ll always remember.
“The Foundation for Rural Service (FRS) Youth Tour was an exciting, enjoyable, and educational experience. I was honored to be selected by Hardy Telecommunications to go on the tour,” he said. “I really enjoyed the four days I spent in Washington, D.C., from sightseeing to meeting new people to learning about rural telephone companies across the nation, much like Hardy Telecommunications.
Ashley echoed Jesse’s comments.
“Visiting Washington, D.C., for the FRS Youth Tour was an amazing experience. … I will never forget the memories that were made while I was there. … I would definitely recommend that juniors consider filling out the applications, for this is the opportunity of a lifetime.”
This year’s preliminary agenda includes visits to the U.S. Capitol, the Lincoln Memorial, the World War II Memorial, Mount Vernon (home of George Washington), the Vietnam War Memorial, the Smithsonian Museums, the Korean War Memorial, the National Zoo, the National Cathedral, and Arlington National Cemetery. A night tour of Washington and special entertainment are also planned, including a dance the final night complete with professional DJ.
Because of the widespread interest in the tour from students around the country, Hardy can only sponsor one student from Moorefield High and one from East Hardy High. Applications for the tour may be picked up from the guidance counselors at both high schools or by contacting Derek Barr at Hardy’s Lost River Office, telephone 304-897-9911. To be eligible for the trip, students must be high school juniors of the 2012 graduating class and be either 16 or 17 years old at the time of the tour. Students must also receive service from either Hardy Telecommunications or HardyNet.
The deadline to return applications is February 11, 2010. Applications may be returned to either the high school guidance counselors or directly to Derek Barr, Marketing/Human Resource Director, Hardy Telecommunications, 2255 Kimseys Run Road, Lost River, WV 26810.