Applications are now being accepted for Class 44 of the California Agricultural Leadership Program (CALP). Growers, farmers, ranchers and individuals working in allied businesses and organizations are encouraged to apply.

The Ag Leadership Program, operated by the California Agricultural Leadership Foundation (CALF), is considered to be one of the premier leadership development experiences in the United States. Nearly 1,200 men and women have participated in the program and are influential leaders and active volunteers in the agriculture industry, communities and other areas.

The 16-month program, from October 2013 to January 2015, is composed of monthly seminars delivered by Cal Poly, Pomona; Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo; California State University, Fresno; University of California, Davis; and other academic institutions. Fellows also participate in a 10-day national travel seminar and a 15-day international travel seminar.

If you need a cell phone-- but can't afford one-- you could be in luck!

A new federal program is helping some of those who can’t afford a cell phone, to obtain one for free.

The Fresno Regional Foundation (FRF) is accepting applications for its 2013 Youth Grant Cycle and will be granting $206,000 to youth-serving organizations. Of this amount, $105,000 will be earmarked specifically for Dinuba, Cutler-Orosi, Orange Cove, and Reedley for youth and education. The grant amount range is $5,000 to $25,000. In addition, $10,000 will be earmarked for charter school petition development.

FRF will fund organizations serving children 4th to 12th grade that address the social, education, and health challenges impacting youth in our region, while working collaboratively with community partners to provide services.

To share information about grants, FRF will be hosting a grant information webinar on February 21 at 11 a.m. and an in-person grant information session on February 28 at 1 p.m.