Ryan Foster, a sophomore at Ghidotti Early College High School in Grass Valley, has been selected by the University of California 4-H Youth Development Program to spend eight weeks this summer in Tokyo learning Japanese culture, economics, politics, social life and language.

"I'm really excited and looking forward to what I am going to experience," said Foster, 16. "It's really amazing to be given the chance to experience a different culture. I'm looking forward to learning the Japanese language and improving my skills in speaking Japanese."

Foster has earned part of his trip expenses by working part-time as a lineman for Alpine Aviation in Grass Valley.

To help him pay for the $4,500 journey, Foster is asking for contributions from the community.

Tax-deductible donations can be made payable to Nevada County 4-H and sent to Nevada County Cooperative Extension, Attn: Japan Outbound, 255 S. Auburn St., Grass Valley, CA 95945.

To contact Soumitro Sen, e-mail ssen@theunion.com or call 477-4229.