May 31
Good Monday evening, Calgary 4-H Region folks!
Oh, what a weekend! Amid all the cold and wet... there was so much 'good' to celebrate! And you know what? The smiles on the faces of and laughter emanating from our Calgary 4-H Region's members, all 540 of those who worked and played all weekend... was all the feedback that any of us should ever need.
So many thanks and congratulations to the dozens of volunteers who gave hundreds of hours to making 2010's 4-H On Parade such an amazing success. You know who you are and your efforts are appreciated more than you can ever know.
I have a few highlights I would like to mention...
Trucks from south of Calgary arriving on Thursday with 4+" of snow in their boxes.
The ease with which our members speak to the media, whether in televised, recorded or print fashions. Their confidence and knowledge never ceases to amaze and inspire me.
The continued growth of our Life Skills component, with more than twice as many members participating this year and such a display of talent and learning.
The new "Daily Clover", and how excited members were to solve the "Mystery Photo"! Wasn't this idea of Leanne Niblock's a good one!? I certainly heard such from a number of members and leaders.
The smoothness of the steer weigh-in and the steer show on the whole!
Watching Alberta 4-H Volunteer Hall-of-Famer and Calgary Regional Council Treasurer Sharon Uhrich return to 4-H On Parade as a club project leader, volunteer and proud Grandma. That old saying, "You can't go home again"? Don't believe it; Sharon was as "at home" as I've ever seen her! How interesting and rewarding it is to see the circle completed and start coming around again...
The speed of the horse show. And the fact we had full box stalls for the first time ever! And how about the extraordinary decorations they put up? Candy? Christmas? Our horse clubs go full tilt boogie, to be sure...
The number of visitors we get from other 4-H regions to see how we do things... and do things RIGHT!... including a delegation from the Medicine Hat Stampede.
Murry Rasmussen, leader with Prairie Partners, taking a school group around in an impromptu manner, and doing such a grand job of it! Ask him about castrating... he did have one very savvy student who was all about the 'neutering'...
The good naturedly positive approach by the sheep clubs and the Halter & Harness Heavy Horse club (did you realize their acronym is four "H"'s? Intentional? I bet...) to being located in tents that were much cooler than normal! And how about that Heavy Horse driving contest! I love when new things happen at 4-H On Parade!
Carol Hadway's (West Didsbury) commitment to the Beef Female marketing contest and making sure those members have the ability to qualify for other cool programs and contests taking place later this summer. And Tammi Van Tighem (West Carstairs) and Karen Knight (Cheadle) running around to make everything work for the Team Grooming contest on Saturday. A lot of changes and matching and stacking members led to a great event.
The judging contest volunteer crew who show up early and stay really late... like Cheri Foat (kind of the 'judging MVP' in our region) and all others.
The pride our clubs take in their charity projects, like Foothills Sheep and Jumping Pound. I think these might have both set records this year for revenue from the Charity Steer and Lamb. And when you learn the personal reason why each club wanted to support their charity of choice... well, talk about something to "warm the cockles of your heart"...
The way the dairy club works together. These members certainly seem to be all on the same team and I love watching them! And what about their judging prowess? Lexi Wright, one of the most dedicated leaders in the region, organizes four meetings a year where all they do is judge. Yeah... that helps to explain it!
How each member of the 4-H On Parade Executive Committee is so committed to helping those with questions, to finding the proper information and/or answer, and serving the public at large.
Spencer Sinclair, a parent in the Airdrie Helping Hands club, taking 'matters into his own hands', and that of about 15 helpers, to make right a very wrong situation. Its amazing what 16 people and 5 minutes can 'undo'!
Those agility dogs are just CRAZY, man... and I mean that in a good way! Those members have such personal investment in their dogs and it shows.
Gord Bamford's passion for 4-H and his visible thrill in meeting 4-H personalities from around our region, from little brothers and sisters of current members to their grandparents and great-grandparents! And wasn't it cool of EnCana to purchase almost every participating 4-H member Gord's new cd?
Seeing that Project Herd class in the ring during the Regional Beef Female Show. Those members have worked so hard for years to get to that point.
The joy on the faces of those EnCana folks who delight in flipping pancakes and frying sausages for us on Saturday morning. As well as supplying coffee and hot chocolate (and the self-directed 'moa-kaaaa's' we get to make as a result) on Friday and Sunday morning. Has this ever been more appreciated than in 2010?
How proud the Calgary Stampede is to host us and how responsive they are (many thanks, Erin and Robert) when action is needed.
Cameron Olson, Balzac Beef, and his awesome hog project! As much as I appreciated the 'uniqueness' of his project, the illustration of what he learned in his display was what left the most notable impression on me, until I read the report his mom, Donna, wrote that was part of his display as well! Cameron convinced both his club and his parents of the value to his taking this highly diversified project, and that is what 4-H is all about. I'm hoping we have a few more members next year resulting in a swine show and sale...
Finally, the commitment of sponsors, from those who give a little to those who provide a lot. Their investment in the showcasing of our members' skills and abilities swimming in an atmosphere of fun and friendship is always one of my most enduring memories. 4-H On Parade sponsors ROCK... so please be sure to contact them as indicated on the attached information sheet.
I've included the 2010 results (the stuff highlighted in yellow still needs to come, but I thought you needed this sooner rather than later) so please consider them a brief encapsulation of the achievements at 4-H On Parade. But remember the smiles and laughter as this past few day's greatest legacy in our lives.
So be prepared for 2011 when our dates are as follows: move-in: Thursday, May 26, 2011; Event: Friday, May 27 – Sunday, May 29, 2011.
As always, it will be EPIC!!!
Regional Council Meeting - this Wednesday in Airdrie!
Please remember there is a Regional 4-H Council Meeting in two nights time, in Airdrie, starting at 7:00 p.m. This will be our final meeting until fall, so please try and make it if you can to debrief the year.
Wednesday night will also be the deadline to submit Casino Volunteer forms for our next Regional Casino experience on September 16th and 17th at the Calgary Casino. Our Co-Chairmen for this project are Anita Beaudin and Laurie Jacob-Toews again, so let me know if you want to work and they will be in touch with you.
Finally this Regional Meeting is also an opportunity to provide direction to our two Provincial 4-H Council representatives, Stacy Price and Dwayne Fulton, prior to their next meeting in July. Also, if you have either reports or Agenda items, please send these to me as quickly as you can. Thanks a bunch, in advance!
Rob Smith... OUT!!!
Cheers,
Rob Smith
4-H Specialist - Southern & Calgary Regions
May 26
... and there is news and information in this message that will likely help you out, so take a gander!
Yes... in somewhere between 21 and 48 hours, most of us will be standing on Calgary Stampede Park kicking off our involvement at the 2010 edition of 4-H On Parade, brought to you by the number "4" and the letter "H"... as well as some outstanding sponsors like Encana and the Calgary 4-H Region not to mention hosted by the best-est friend we have in the Calgary 4-H Region, the Calgary Stampede! Myranda and I will be down there tomorrow between 2:00 & 4:00 p.m., and we're are WAAAAAY looking forward to it! So much work on behalf of the members to get themselves and their projects ready... so much work on behalf of leaders to support and train the members... and so much work on behalf of the volunteer committee members who make the whole exhibition happen! I consider 4-H On Parade to not only be the largest 4-H event in the nation, but the most significant celebration of 4-H you can possibly imagine. And if you are not a part of it, come on down and check it out. I'll bet you want to be part of it next year! Anyway, here is some important stuff for you. Check it out!!!
Here are the 4-H On Parade statistics, just so you know... Wanna know what's there? Well, there are (to the tune of 12 Days of Christmas... only a bloated version): 519 members 3 '4-H immersion' try-outs (not sure what else to call them!) 43 clubs 125 horses 21 dogs 130 steers 25 dairy females 52 life skills projects 221 head of beef females 99 sheep 244 in the judging contest Whew!
Here is the Schedule of Events... As well as the Parking Map! ... accompanied by this note from our good friend Erin Bartlett with the Calgary Stampede: As we approach the last few hours before 4-H on Parade – an update for those with RV parking passes: Included is an updated map for 4-H on Parade. The Infield Parking is on asphalt and there are ramps for track crossing (located between the Big Top and the Grandstand). There will be no early admission for RV Trailers to the area. Spots are marked on the pavement which allows enough room for pop-outs, but not awnings and the spots are filled on a first come, first served basis. Please respect the parking attendants’ directions.
Washrooms/showers (secure area) are available in the Grandstand at the following times: Friday May 28 5:00am – 10:00am and 5:00pm – 9:00pm Saturday May 29 5:00am – 10:00am and 5:00pm – 9:00pm Sunday May 30 5:00am – 10:00am We look forward to seeing you in the next couple of days! Erin BartlettAgriculture Program CoordinatorCalgary StampedeT 403.261.0336 F 403.262.3067 ebartlett@calgarystampede.com www.calgarystampede.com
Preserving and promoting western heritage and values. Wanna hear Ambassador Kelsey Cartwright talk about the weekend? Then here you go! Many thanks to our masterful media motivator, Leanne Niblock for her work, once again, to the betterment of 4-H in the Calgary Region: http://www1.agric.gov.ab.ca/$Department/newslett.nsf/all/cotl16654
Its not all 4-H On Parade... there is still room in most Provincial 4-H Summer Programs... Although the deadline to register for the 'personal development' summer programs passed on May 15th, we would rather see them full so we are still accepting applications for all but Junior Camp. There is limited space in Combined Camp 3 and LTCS, and Club Week is getting fuller everyday (YAY!) so if you want to attend, please act quickly. No 4-H member's summer is complete without a summer program personal development opportunity, so please take advantage of these great programs in 2010!
...And a note from Irvine Tack and Western Wear Hi, just wanted to let you know, being that Irvine Tack and Western Wear is a supporter of 4H,we offer all 4 H carded members. We also offer same day shipping. Check us out: www.irvinetackandtrailers.com Thanks Heather
...And an employment request from a travelling Quebecois... Meridith Closs, a 4-H member from "La Belle Province", Quebec, is currently touring through Alberta and would like to find a summer job if such good fortune comes her way. She is experienced with beef, sheep, dairy and horse 4-H projects, so would be just thrilled to find gainful employment in any of those fields from now until the end of August. If you are interested in hiring Meridith, for a few days or the entire time, please give her a call at 613-223-3263. She is a sincere young lady with a strong work ethic, so you would be helping out a fellow Canadian and 4-H personality! Plus getting some great work done... And that's it, folks! See you in Calgary! And until the next time, best of luck, everyone, with your shows and sales and all that grand 4-H stuff we get in May and June!
Cheers, Rob Smith
4-H Specialist - Southern & Calgary Regions
May 7
Good day, folks!!!
My... a day in May, 2010 without a blizzard! How refreshing!!!
I'm banging this out in hopes of getting home to breed a few more cows before the next snow flies... so here goes:
Provincial 4-H Selections
So... last weekend has come and gone and what an extraordinarily proud time this was for the Calgary 4-H Region!!!
We had 25 4-H members in attendance, by far the second largest contingent (the Southern Region - my 'other' one - led with 30) which amounted to 20% of the program. More than a quarter of our awesome members won trips, and given the number of 'younger' (Grade 10 and 11) members we had, I am really thrilled with this outcome. We had a great team go, and I'm truly proud of each and every one whether they are a trip recipient or not. Here are the award trip highlights:
2010-12 Ambassadors (both selected for the Premier's Award Group) - join 2009-11 Ambassadors Jared Hunter and Avery Parkinson
- Kelsey Cartwright, Jumping Pound 4-H Beef - Rockyview District
- Kendra Kelly, Millarville 4-H Saddle Sores - Foothills District
National 4-H Citizenship Seminar - Ottawa, Ontario (April 8 - 14, 2011)
- Wyatt Hanson, Airdrie 4-H Beef - Rockyview District
- Devon Parkinson, Golden Rod 4-H Multi - Rockyview District
National 4-H Conference - Toronto, Ontario (November 3 - 7, 2010)
- Kendra Kelly
4-H Alberta / Northwest Territories Agriculture Development Tour (July 12 - 21, 2010)
- Arleta Bowhay, Bergen 4-H Multi - Mountainview District
- Kelsey Cartwright
- Scott Crebbin, Foothills 4-H Sheep - Foothills District
- Lars Iversen, Mountainview 4-H Dairy - Mountainview District
Alternate List
- Amani Boyer, Central Beiseker 4-H Beef & Multi (Rockyview District)
- Jordynn Jamieson, Bow Valley 4-H Beef & Multi (Rockyview District)
- Harley Morison, Balzac 4-H Beef (Rockyview District)
And I as much as I'm thrilled for this year's trip recipients, I'm really excited that we had another 15 delegates (including Amani, Jordynn and Harley, unless they receive a trip between now and then) who attended who are primed and ready to attend again in 2011. it is important to note that, with only 51 trips awards to 126 members, its around 40% of the total number of delegates at Selections who actually received a trip. I am solidly convinced we will repeat and exceed this year's success in 2011 with those others going back as well as a new crop.
Congratulations to you all... you are the pride of the Calgary 4-H Region!!!
4-H & the Calgary Stampede...
We are still looking for members, clubs, districts and interested parties to help put on 4-H displays during the 2010 Calgary Stampede. I sent the information in my last 'blast' but here it is again:
You should ask your 4-H club if they are interested in helping put on a 4-H show at the Calgary Stampede during the 10-day festival!!!
The Calgary 4-H Region is working with the Calgary Stampede to 'program' displays on the Tuesday/Wednesday, Thursday/Friday and Saturday/Sunday of the Stampede. We want two alleys of 4-H 'stuff' and this is a noncompetitive opportunity to showcase our 4-H projects and members. We are looking for folks to commit to one of those three time periods, and the "sky's the limit" in terms of what can be done - bring down livestock, showcase art, put on a demonstration - you name it, you can most likely do it!
Please let me know if you have any questions. Please see this letter from the Calgary Stampede to provide further details, but I'm happy to talk to you about this if it helps to get you committed to coming down and putting on a 4-H display. And you don't have to do this in clubs if you are motivated to display as an individual member or with some friends from a neighboring club... or district... or even region!
My Summer Student, Myranda Stewart, who started work this week, will be contacting clubs to promote this project. The Ambassadors will be there... the Calgary 4-H Regional Booth will be there... and the Springbank Rawhides and Balzac Beef clubs have also committed to attending and 'plying their wares', so to speak, in marketing both themselves and the entire 4-H program. Remember... ONE MILLION PEOPLE enter Stampede Park for the 'Greatest Outdoor Show On Earth', so the opportunity to market the 'greatest leadership development program on earth' should just make the most sense in the world!!!
And yet more potential Calgary Stampede 4-H involvement, if you want it...
Maybe this could be yet another component of your club's Calgary Stampede plan for 2010... and onward! Please see this note and let me know if you have interest:
Dear Marguerite,
I volunteer with the Calgary Stampede Caravan Committee; we were wondering if it would be appropriate for your club members to be present at Stampede Breakfasts that we host throughout the city during the festival in July.
We have a 'Kidszone' area where we are always trying to offer new activities and giveaways for the children who visit the breakfasts. For many of them, this is their only Stampede experience and they tend to return year after year. We thought it might be a good opportunity for 4-H members to be available to the children visiting Kidszone to answer agriculture questions or provide informal educational info. We have a tent where we offer Stampede themed face-painting and giveaways. Perhaps some of your members could join us here daily during our event and volunteer alongside us. We liked the concept of children and adolescents educating their peers.
Stampede is July 9-18th this year. Our breakfasts run daily from 9:00am to 11:00am and we would be grateful for any of your time during our event. We would hope to have your involvement on Saturday, July 10th and from July 12th to the 17th inclusive. I would be happy to provide more details regarding the Caravan breakfasts; in the meantime our daily location schedule is attached. If there is a more appropriate contact person for this request that you could forward that would be appreciated. Or, if this should be addressed to clubs on an individual basis please let me know.
I can be reached at jrooney.physio@gmail.com or 403.478.2871. We would be very pleased to have your involvement at our Stampede breakfasts and I look forward to hearing from you. Thank you very much for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Jessica Rooney
Calgary Stampede Caravan Committee
230 Silver Springs Way
Airdrie AB T4B 2Y3
www.stampedecaravan.com
Provincial 4-H Summer Program Deadline - May 15th, 2010
So you can't get enough of 4-H? Or you CAN get enough... but not of the opportunity to meet new people, make new friends and travel around Alberta? Well then a provincial 4-H program opportunity is just waiting for you this July and August!!!
The members I listed above as attending and winning trips at last weekend's Provincial 4-H Selections know a lot about programs. For them, acronyms like PDP and LTCS are NOT mysteries... even if they are to you. So overcome that mystery and become familiar with this amazing array of programs.
If you are a Junior or Intermediate, attend one of the many Junior or Intermediate Camps held at the Alberta 4-H Centre on Battle Lake. These camps feature 80+ 4-H members from around Alberta in this beautiful central Alberta setting... one that is partly yours since it belongs to the 4-H Foundation of Alberta! And in order to run these camps we need trained 'professional' counselors, so the 'first order of business' of the summer is to run our "Leadership Through Counselling Seminar", or LTCS, at the Centre and train our Senior members to LEAD the Junior and Intermediate Camps.
As an Intermediate, you have the additional opportunity to attend "People Developing People", or PDP, in one of its forms. This is a program with a bit more freedom and self-directness, produced with the Junior High School mind and interests at heart.
And if you are a Senior, in addition to LTCS and the opportunity to counsel at one of the Provincial or Regional camps, you MUST find the time, one summer in your 4-H career, to attend Club Week. This program defies description and my only advice to you is GO!!! I suppose the possibility exists that it may not be your favorite experience in life, but I will tell you, the VAST MAJORITY of members who attend Club Week rave about this... YEARS AFTER THEY ATTEND... as one of the most incredible weeks of their life. For testimonials, please talk to any 4-H member you know who has gone; their stories, while different, all lead to the same inevitable conclusion - that you MUST attend.
So please get your entries in. Time is ticking by and given how Selections filled up this year, maybe these others will as well. NO program is currently full, so if you get your application(s) in by the deadline, I believe you will be 'good to go'... and so much the better for going!!!
And a special note to those folks in the Foothills District... LTCS is NOT FULL!!! I'm not sure where this rumour started, but let's put it out NOW!!! I hope it will be full, but, currently, there is LOTS of room. So register... and you can do so either through you last Alberta 4-H magazine or from the Alberta 4-H website. Contact me if you need further details or help in any way.
Also, don't forget about the great 'shows' of summer - Provincial 4-H Dairy, Beef Heifer and (the NEW) Horse shows, in addition to Provincial 4-H Horse Classic. These are great opportunities as well, so don't miss them.
Summer Synergy
Many of you have heard about this new program that 'replaces' the former International Youth Livestock Show during Calgary Stampede with a new event that represents a partnership between Calgary Stampede, Olds Ag. Society, Alberta 4-H and the provincial beef breed youth associations. This is where the Provincial 4-H Dairy Show will now be held. If you want more information, here is a flyer put together. Please share this with your 'peeps', and help to 'spread the word' because its going to be great. There is another partner on board now and this just adds value to the already growing interest. The folks at Olds met with the provincial Agriculture Minister today (in addition to at least one other Minister) and reaction is overwhelmingly positive so help to spread the word:
Here is the information I just received today from Tracy Lundago, Chairman of the International Youth Livestock Committee. The show will include Beef, Dairy and Heavy Horse components this year, but plans are in order to include a Provincial 4-H Sheep Show in 2011 so our sheep members will only have a year to wait. And if you want to be part of the judging and marketing, you will be able to enter that off the Calgary Stampede website. I will include these links as they come available. But for now, here is THIS information:
Good Afternoon,
As many of you are quickly preparing entry forms for the show, it was requested that we have a one pager accompany the Summer Synergy information. I have attached a brief form which covers most of the touch points regarding the show.
In addition, we need to make sure that all of you entry forms clearly state the $50 Summer Synergy fee which enables the youth to vie for all the scholarships and extra awards. Should there be any questions about this, please let me know!
Have a super day!
Tracy
CAPL - Calgary Stampede Steer Classic 2010 Tickets
Please see this note from our own 'volunteer extraordinaire', Lorraine Parkinson:
Dear Rob:
If anyone/club would like to sell these tickets they can contact me at 403-948-2618 and I can arrange to get the tickets to them. I have 250 tickets of each color and would appreciate any help selling these that I can get.
I believe that we as 4-H clubs/members/leaders should be helping to support the Alberta 4-H program in any way that we can.
Also, if the other regions would like tickets I would be more than happy to share the tickets with them.
Thanks, Lorraine Parkinson
KEY MEMBER program
A letter has been sent out to potential Key Members inviting them to submit a resume and cover letter to your regional office to be considered as a Key Member for your district. Please feel free to contact your regional specialist to see if any have been received to date. Based on past experience, it has been noted that the most successful districts utilize more than one Key Member at any given time, whether it be two new or one experienced and one new. This allows more flexibility for the members and clubs in hosting workshops, but also allows the members an opportunity to vet ideas and tasks with a peer. With this said, please do what is best for the structure of your district.
If you would like more information on Key Member training it can be found on the 4-H website at www.4h.ab.ca or you can contact me at rob.g.smith@gov.ab.ca.
Kindly submit the names of your Key Member(s) by July 1, 2010 via email: leila.hickman@gov.ab.ca ; phone: (780)853-8115 or by fax: (780)853-4776.
Just a reminder to members - if you are interested in becoming a KEY MEMBER for your district, PLEASE APPLY! It is a fantastic opportunity!
Key Member Training, August 20 – 22, 2010 at Lakeland College, Vermilion AB
Information for your club's leader regarding your UFA sponsorship for 2009-10
Please see this information from the 4-H Foundation of Alberta:
Good morning,
We are trying something new this year with UFA’s club sponsorship funds and are doing our best to make sure that it works. We would like your assistance to get the attached reminder out to the club leaders early next week(April 19-23). If you could please include the PDF attachment in your email blast we would appreciate it. Also if you could let me know when this has been sent out in your region that would be great!
Thank you for your help.
Jessica Patten
Administrative Assistant
4-H Foundation of Alberta
RR# 1, Westerose , AB T0C 2V0
Business: (780)-682-2153
Toll Free: 1-877-682-2153
Fax: (780) 682-3784
Alberta 4-H web site/ www.4h.ab.ca
Alberta 4-H Centre web site/ www.4hab.com
WPCA 4-H Mentorship Opportunity
Please see this note from the 4-H Foundation of Alberta regarding this popular summer program, back again in 2010:
WPCA 4-H Mentorship Opportunity
As a result of the delay in delivery of the Alberta 4-H Magazine Spring issue, we have extended the deadline for 4-H members to apply for the WPCA 4-H Mentorship Opportunity until Thursday, May 20, 2010. The application is available in the Spring Magazine, and on the 4-H Website at www.4h.ab.ca .
Applications may be mailed, faxed or emailed to the 4-H Foundation of Alberta. Applications must be received by May 20, 2010.
WPCA 4-H Mentorship Opportunity
4-H Foundation of Alberta
RR 1
Westerose, AB T0C 2V0
Phone: (780) 682-2153
Toll Free: 1-877-682-2153
Fax : (780) 682-3784
Email: patten@4hab.com
Ducks Unlimited Canada - Field Day at Frank Lake - May
From: Robert Corrigan [mailto:r_corrigan@ducks.ca]
Sent: Wednesday, April 21, 2010 3:40 PM
To: Robert Corrigan
Subject: Ducks Unlimited Canada - Field Day at Frank Lake - May
Spring is in the air and within the next month millions of waterfowl will be making their way on the annual migration to summer nesting grounds in Canada.
The last week of May and the first week of June are often the peak of the migration and we thought this would be a great time to share with you the experience. We will be offering some in field activities that Ducks Unlimited Canada are involved with.
We have a great group of presenters featuring conservation, research and educational experts plus we will be pleased to provide you with lunch and a day in the field with hands on demonstrations.
Attendance will be limited, so let us know as soon as possible if can attend and we will book you a seat on the buses. If you have any colleagues that you would like to attend please let us know and we will add them to our list.
Want to know more? Give me a call and we can discuss the day in detail.
I'm looking forward to visiting with you on the 27th.
PS Family night - by the way we are also doing a family night in the evening of the 27th - If you were interested in bringing your family/children out that evening call me and I can provide you with the specific invitation for the night event.
Bob Corrigan
Ducks Unlimited
Development Manager
3520-114 Avenue SE
Calgary, Alberta
T2Z 3V6
Direct 403 476-1886
Cell 403 836-5002
r_corrigan@ducks.ca
Wetlands are one of the most critical parts of the environment. With active partnerships with over 18,000 landowners, 4.6 million acres secured and 33 million acres of habitat positively influenced through policy and other conservation measures, Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC) is the leading wetlands conservation organization in Canada.
Rooms available for rent IMMEDIATELY in Lethbridge and Edmonton...
Please see this note from a family with a couple of outstanding Calgary 4-H Regional Alumni...
EDMONTON:
1 bedroom available in a 950 square foot 2-bedroom apartment. (Other summer renter is a past 4-H member, male).
Newly renovated with laminate flooring, new countertops and appliances.
$550/room includes heat and water. Power is extra.
Apartment is at 57 Ave and 112 St in south Edmonton (Lendrum area) . 5 blocks from LRT transit and Southgate Mall.
No smoking, no pets.
Available May 1 - August 31/10
Contact: Leaseholder - Russell Shuttleworth (403) 226-0813 Call Russell first please. Landlord - Brandie (780) 756-4418
LETHBRIDGE:
House: 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. House is 4 years old.
Includes kitchen appliances, washer and dryer.
Carpet and laminate flooring.
$1300/month. Utilities extra.
House located in West Lethbridge near bus route to University.
No smoking, no pets.
All four rooms available May 1 - August 31/10
Contact: Landlord: Donna (403) 320-2152 Leaseholder: Laura Shuttleworth (403) 226-0813
Need a Horse skill clinic? Here's a resource:
Hi there, I am Yolanda Garnier and I was a long time 4-H member in the northeast region. I have been out of the 4-H program for a while and have developed my own horse training and instruction business.
This summer I will be giving groundwork and riding clinics and I would like to make them readily available to 4-Hers.
I was wondering if you would be able to give me the mailing addresses/contact information for the Horse 4-H clubs in your region so I can get a hold of them and let them know about the clinics and send them forms if they are interested.
Thank you so much!
Yolanda Garnier
Discovery Horsemanship
Website:www.discoveryhorsemanship.net
E-mail: info@discoveryhorsemanship.net
Phone: 780-522-9706
Finally... we all know some "Great Kids"... wanna nominate them for an award?!?!?!
Please forward to ANYONE around the province who works with youth (coaches, churches, youth-serving organizations, etc)! I apologize if you are receiving this twice…..
***
The Government of Alberta is pleased to open nominations for the 2010 Great Kids Award.
You are invited to recognize a child or youth between the ages of 5 and 18 for their exceptional achievements at home, at school and in the community.
Great Kids Award winners will be celebrated during an awards ceremony at the Fantasyland Hotel in Edmonton in the Fall and receive a prize package from IBM, the Fantasyland Hotel and West Edmonton Mall.
Nominate a Great Kid!
Print off the nomination form attached to this email, fill it out and fax or mail it to:
Alberta Children and Youth Services
Community Partnerships and Youth Strategies Branch
10th Floor, Sterling Place
9940 106 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5K 2N2
Fax: 780-422-5036
All nominations must be received by June 14 at 4:00 p.m.
For more information, visit www.greatkids.alberta.ca , call 780-415-0085 (for toll-free access, dial 310-0000) or email Jackie.Dickson@gov.ab.ca.
And thee-thee-thee-thee-thee-that's all, folks!
Cheers, Rob Smith
Apr 13
Hello, folks!
I can't believe its been almost three weeks since I wrote to you!!! Wow, the time does fly!
In that span, all of the 4-H On Parade entries came in, kicking off the formal run-up to what I like to call the "Greatest Outdoor 4-H Show on Earth"!!! We will welcome 519 Calgary 4-H youth to 2010 4-H On Parade because that's how many have registered! Over 500 4-H members in one place... how awesome!
We've watched Amani Boyer (Central Beiseker 4-H Beef & Multi Club) and Annessa Good (Big Hill West 4-H Light Horse Club) represent us at the Provincial 4-H Senior Public Speaking Contest, as well as Ellen Hondl (Bergen 4-H Multi Club) and Jenna Karmann & Leah Mitchell (Golden Rod 4-H Multi Club) compete at the Provincial 4-H Presentations Contest last weekend in Lethbridge. All the girls did a super job and we must all be proud of them.
Speaking of time flying... Monday, April 12th was the 30th anniversary of Terry Fox dipping his prosthetic leg in the Atlantic Ocean on the Newfoundland coast to celebrate the first day of his "Marathon of Hope". I didn't know it at the time because the start of this run, believe it or not, was completely off the media's radar, but within two months he would become the greatest hero of my life and, in my opinion (while my vote to the CBC obviously didn't count!), the all-time Greatest Canadian. I can't believe its been 30 years, and I'll be a whole bunch of people reading this message can't believe it either...
So... here is all the news I have for you today. Please let me know if you have any questions.
New Calgary Stampede - 4-H project
You should ask your 4-H club if they are interested in helping put on a 4-H show at the Calgary Stampede during the 10-day festival!!!
The Calgary 4-H Region is working with the Calgary Stampede to 'program' displays on the Tuesday/Wednesday, Thursday/Friday and Saturday/Sunday of the Stampede. We want two alleys of 4-H 'stuff' and this is a noncompetitive opportunity to showcase our 4-H projects and members. We are looking for folks to commit to one of those three time periods, and the "sky's the limit" in terms of what can be done - bring down livestock, showcase art, put on a demonstration - you name it, you can most likely do it!
Please let me know if you have any questions. Please see this letter from the Calgary Stampede to provide further details, but I'm happy to talk to you about this if it helps to get you committed to coming down and putting on a 4-H display. And you don't have to do this in clubs if you are motivated to display as an individual member or with some friends from a neighboring club... or district... or even region!
Remember the Regional Council Meeting in Airdrie... tomorrow!!!
- Wednesday, April 14th, 2010 - 7:00 p.m.
And also the 4-H On Parade Committee's Meeting in Balzac... next week!!!
- Monday, April 19th, 2010 - 7:00 p.m.
Nothing really to write here... just don't miss this meeting!!!
Information from the 4-H Foundation of Alberta
In the last 'blast' I sent you, the fax number was incorrect in one of the Foundation documents. Thanks to Lorraine Parkinson for catching this, so please see her note:
Could you please send out an email blast to the club leaders stating that the Fax # on the letter is incorrect. It should read
1-780-682-3784. The # on the letter is the 4-H Foundation’s main #.
Thank you very much, Lorraine... and VERY GOOD eyes!!!
Electronic Timers... for use by Horse Clubs... Just so you know... these have arrived and you can book them through me.
A beef project scholarship... from Alberta Beef Producers!!!
Well... that's all I got for you, Folks! As always, please let me know if you have any questions or if there is anything you want shared with our masses!
Cheers,
Rob Smith
Mar 24
Good day, Calgary 4-H Region!
Here is all the news that is fit to share with you for today... and I promise this message WILL NOT take up your valuable computer / e-mail space near so bad as the one I sent last week did! The biggest culprit last week was information from the 4-H Foundation of Alberta that I truly believe you should have, so while I'm sorry it was such a 'monster' message, I would likely send it to you again because these funding initiatives coordinated by the Foundation are just such great opportunities.
First off, a great event for you taking place this weekend...
Rockyview Drug Seminar - Friday, March 26, 2010
There is a regional workshop being provided about drug usage that the Rockyview District is hosting on Friday night. The workshop includes pizza, beverages & dessert. Once the seminar is complete, everyone in attendance will be able to watch "The Blind Side", released just this week on dvd, so you are watching this Oscar-winning picture (Best Actress - Sandra Bullock... and claimed by my niece to be the best film of last year!) 'hot off the presses'! Popcorn will also be provided for the movie. Here are the forms to send to Rockyview District Key Leader, Lorraine Parkinson:
4-H On Parade entries are due in exactly 1 week, 2 hours and 14 minutes...
That's right... time is ticking away to get your applications in for the largest 4-H youth event in Canada, and one of the biggest in the world... the Calgary 4-H Region's collaboration with the Calgary Stampede... a little show called 4-H On Parade!!! With more than 600 registered members and literally thousands of projects on display, it is such an impressive sight! And you can absolutely be part of it... but you have to get your entry in before 11:59 p.m.on April 1st, 2010. And that means in my office... NOT post-marked!!! And remember... the office closes at 4:30 p.m. so if you are going to be AFTER that, you better contact me to make arrangements to meet me somewhere...
All the forms are available on the Alberta 4-H website. Here is the address: http://www.4h.ab.ca/regions/calgary/parade.html.
Please let me know if you have any questions. And remember EVERYTHING comes to me, all with ONE cheque!!! Except the clothing order, which goes to Lorraine Parkinson.
A 'wrap' on our 2010 Calgary 4-H Regional Communications campaign...
Please see this awesome report on the completion of our public speaking and presentations across the Calgary 4-H Region. Congratulations are due to ALL OF YOU!!!
It took 30 amazing speakers, 22 fascinating presenters, 24 incredible judges, 4 distinguished Emcee’s, 14 unbelievable Officials and 15 invaluable committee members (that’s 109 people if you’re counting) PLUS our invaluable sponsors, not to mention all of the parents, grandparents, siblings, family, friends and districts behind the scenes but the 2010 Calgary Regional Communications Competitions have come to a close.
A full summary of results are attached, and Thank-you once again to everyone who made this year’s event a success!
Best of luck to the following Senior Members who will be representing our region at Provincials on Saturday, April 10, 2010 at Lethbridge College.
Public Speaking Presentations
Amani Boyer - Rockyview - Central Beiseker 4-H Beef & Multi Ellen Hondl - Mountain View - Bergen Multi
Annessa Good - Rockyview - Big Hill West Light Horse Marleen & Dale Palsson - Wheatland - Standard Sheep
Thanks,
Julie Ulseth, Chairman,
Calgary Regional 4-H Communications
Canadian 4-H Scrapbooking Paper... now available!
We have found four varieties of pretty cool scrapbooking paper that is available for you to purchase. Because the file attachment that shows this off is over two million bytes, I'm NOT going to send it to everyone. But if you are interested in receiving this information, please respond to this message and I'll send it to you directly. The coolest thing about this stuff from my perspective? It features the Canadian 4-H logo... which makes me most proud!!!
Calgary Stampede Youth Livestock Show now at Olds... has been renamed. Please prepare yourself to be part of the 2010 version of "Summer Synergy". Here is the new logo and please stay tuned for more details and information...
Laurie Jacob-Toews and her UFA leadership award...
Remember that I told you previously about the UFA acknowledging long-standing Calgary Regional 4-H volunteer Laurie Jacob-Toews as one of the best-est 4-H volunteers under the age of 35 in the province of Alberta? Well, if you would like to provide your own congratulations to Laurie, the UFA presentation to her is happening this Saturday, March 27th at 12:00 noon at the Airdrie UFA. In the words of our own Alberta 4-H Hall of Famer Sharon Uhrich, "Let’s get out and cheer on our own 4-H alumni volunteer as she is presented with this award!"
And speaking of awards for outstanding excellence... let's look no further than two of our grandest members - Edith Wouters and Stephanie Rasmussen!!!
Last Monday evening, March 15th, the Optimist Club of Calgary honoured outstanding youth leadership including rural youth. They selected two of our own fraternity, the 'Regional' Key Members, Stephanie Rasmussen and Edith Wouters! To let you know a little more about these great gals, please see the speech made about each by our own Stacy Price, Rockyview District Key Leader and also Vice Chair of Alberta 4-H Council:
Stephanie Rasmussen
Stephanie is a 'star' of the Calgary Region's 4-H program, Canada's premier youth development organization. As one of the 'brightest lights' of this predominantly rural organization, Stephanie's organization prowess and commitment to the creation of new activities for the area's 4-H members is inspired and inspiring.
A hard-working, eight year member of the Prairie Partners 4-H Club, Stephanie has carried beef projects like market steers and breeding females. She was the "Key Member" for the Mountainview 4-H District in 2008-09 and her outstanding contribution in this role earned her the appointment of "Regional Key Member", a special position created in 2009-10 specifically for Stephanie and her counterpart, to organize events for the entire Calgary Region. She is also a mentor for the District Key Members across the Calgary Region including Foothills, Rockyview, Mountainview, Kneehill and Wheatland Districts, or essentially those municipalities with a 150 km radius of the City of Calgary.
Among her 4-H involvement and achievement include working with the Farm Credit Corporation Food Drive and the Regional "Cookie" campaign for the Tom Baker Cancer Centre, helping to drive this initiative involving more than 300 dozen cookies for the "People's Services" department at Tom Baker. She has delivered training in public speaking and judging as well as beef 4-H skills like showmanship. Among her 4-H highlights would be the 2007-08 Charity Steer Stephanie facilitated with the proceeds going to Alberta Children's Hospital.
Outside of 4-H, Stephanie has volunteered for sporting events at and fund-raising for the schools in her hometown of Didsbury as well as Christmas Angels, Habitat for Humanity and with the Senior residents of the local Aspen Ridge Lodge. She has also been an Honour student with experience in music, drama, sports and showing beef cattle.
Edith Wouters
Edith is in her 9th year as a member of Canada's premier youth development organization, 4-H, but her involvement spans every aspect of her local community with far-reaching impact.
A decorated member of a dairy cattle 4-H club, Edith comes from a dedicated farm family committed to the producing milk for Albertans. She is an active youth leader, attending most of Alberta's 4-H youth development programs and impacting many with her constant positive, high energy nature, including as a program counsellor. She volunteers to organize and deliver many successful workshops and training sessions regarding a variety of skills and subject areas. Working with, informing and motivating youth, as well as the promotion of health and wellness, have been a huge part of Edith's life, and I suspect they always will be. She is a natural born leader, and Alberta 4-H has appreciated the development and sharing of these skills. One of Alberta's most outstanding 4-H members, Edith has won trips to Billings, Montana and Ottawa, Ontario, representing our province in recognition of her skill and ability.
She has also been involved with figure skating, the Terry Fox Run, badminton, volleyball, basketball, track & field and swimming and is very active in her local church. Edith is also an accomplished speaker, singer, artist, musician and dancer, being called on for many engagements and delighting crowds with her artistic range and grace. She is maybe the most engaged leader in her school, leading the Student's Union and various peer committees as well as liaising with staff and parent councils. Her leadership also has an international flavour, since she's hosted numerous 'Agri-venture' delegates from around the world.
An Honour Student, Edith works with the other 4-H honouree, Stephanie Rasmussen, in tandem as the Regional Key Members, a position specially created for these two superior young leaders who are helping Calgary area 4-H youth to "learn to do by doing". Edith is highly successful in motivating both her peers and those younger than herself to have fun, meet others and generally work toward 'expanding their horizons'. Quite frankly, speaking as an adult, Edith even challenges her mentors and leaders to work harder and do more; she truly is a marvel!
Alberta 4-H is incredibly proud of Edith and Stephanie, and believe they are most worthy candidates for Calgary Optimist Club Youth Award recognition. The past honourees are an extraordinary group meeting significant success in their lives and local communities; Stephanie and Edith are most deserving successors.
Please join me in congratulating... and thanking... Stephanie and Edith for their incredible work for and contributions toward the Calgary 4-H Region in recent years.
Premiere - Calgary 4-H Regional Beef Project Workshop
One of Stephanie's recent achievements was organization of the first-ever Calgary 4-H Regional Beef Project workshop. About 25 members and leaders from across the region gathered together last Sunday in Didsbury for a day everyone in attendance thought was informative and valuable. I hope we will see more of these in the future, and many thanks to Mountain View District for taking on this initiative! Truly, 'a good time was had by all', and the learning was pretty impressive as well!
Sad news from Kneehill District...
Please see this information from Colleen Maxwell of the Elnora 4-H Beef Club:
Kaylee Bridge's (one of our Intermediate members) father, Wade Bridge, was killed in a single motor vehicle accident on March 1, 2010. There has been a trust fund set up for Kaylee and her sister Kelsey at any Servus Credit Union.
If you seek to remember Wade or honour his survivors, please stop by a Servus Credit Union to support the trust fund. And, on behalf of the Calgary 4-H Region, we extend our sympathy and well-wishes to the entire Bridge family during this extraordinary loss.
2010 Alberta 4-H Summer Staff
My colleague Mark Shand has completed the process for putting our Summer Staff team in place for 2010 and I am pleased to announce that Myranda Stewart, a current Alberta 4-H Ambassador, will be returning as my Regional Summer Assistant. Myranda was a long-time Cheadle 4-H Club member in the Wheatland District before winning the Premier's Award two years ago during Provincial 4-H Selections, the highest honour a 4-H member in Alberta can receive. Myranda will be working with me on regional and provincial initiatives from May to August, so let's all welcome her back and congratulate her as the hiring process was particularly challenging this year for Mark due to the incredibly high number of skilled, exciting, talented applicants that actually made it to through our interview stage.
In addition to Myranda, other past 4-H members from the Calgary Region were also hired including Russell Shuttleworth, Project Coordinator for the 4-H Summer Program Team and Rita-Marie Leask, also part of the Summer Program Team. Rita-Marie and Russell, who, like Myranda, both return from last summer, are joined by Coleman Massey on the Alberta Summer Program Team. Rita-Marie, a past 4-H Ambassador, was in the Cremona Club of the Mountain View District while Coleman and Russell were clubmates with Airdrie Helping Hands in the Rockyview District. In total, one-third of the Summer Staff hires come from the Calgary 4-H Region, indicative of the quality of member we develop locally. Congratulations to Coleman, Myranda, Rite-Marie and Russell and best of luck with your Summer 2010 employment. And thanks and congratulations are also due to those other applicants who made this such a great competition!
Well... that's all I've got!!! I don't know if I'll have enough information to provide a message next week or not, so, if I don't, please accept my wishes for a great Easter vacation! I'm sure our members are all 'itching' for that spring break, and the weather has certainly been conducive to spending some time outside and getting ready for all the 4-H work that needs to take place between now and Achievement Day season!
Cheers,
Rob Smith
Mar 17
Top of the late afternoon to ya (imagine an Irish accent and me looking like a leprechaun as I'm trying to stay in the spirit of St. Patrick's Day)!
The April 1st deadline is fast-approaching for 4-H On Parade, so please don't forget about it! All the forms have been sent to you and are also available on the Alberta 4-H website. I've sent this address to you before so won't now. However, if you need it, or any form, please let me know. And also PLEASE USE the financial summary form as part of your entry submission! This will hopefully make your life easier as well as mine for processing your entries...
Please accept this e-mail as 'all the news that's fit to send' for this third full week of March, 2010.
BEEF STUFF...
Final Reminder for Sunday's Regional Beef Workshop
Please remember to register for this event IMMEDIATELY with Regional Key Member Stephanie Rasmussen. Her e-mail address is rasmussen@xplornet.com is you want to register still. Here is a reminder from Stephanie for this 'maiden voyage' of a Regional Beef Project Workshop:
Hello everyone,
Here is the information for the Regional Beef Workshop day.
All members, leaders, and parents are welcome to attend. It will take place Sunday March 21 at the Elks Hall in Didsbury. Starting at 11 we will have Lisa Ashton, meat inspector, talking about safe killing and the dangers of on farm kills. She will also be going over humane handling of animals. Lunch will be provided. starting at 1 we will have Eileen Leslie, Verified Beef Producers, talking about verification of cattle, administering drugs and interpreting labels. If you attend this workshop you are considered a verified beef producer and can receive a grant of up to $5000.00 for implementing the VBP program. This grant can be used towards squeeze chutes with neck extenders, weigh scales, computer software, digital thermometers and verification expenses. For more information visit www.growingforward.alberta.ca. We will be taking registration up to noon Friday March 19.
11:00- Meat Inspector
12:00- Lunch
1:00- Verified Beef Program (approximately 2 hours)
We need 10 parents to make this a workable program. Please send out to your club.
Thanks,
Stephanie Rasmussen
Chinook Junior Livestock Show
Here is a message from Cecilie Fleming regarding entry into this popular event held during Easter Week in Claresholm. We have a strong Calgary contingent and it gets larger every year:
Hello Folks
We are down to our deadline to enter hoodies for the Chinook Junior Stock Show.
We really want to make sure all participants get a hoodie.
If you are planning to attend please fax, email or phone your entries to me.
If you have misplaced your forms - attached is the form.
My deadline to order hoodies was today but I have been granted a 2 day extension. I have to place the order by noon on Friday March 19, 2010.
Sponsorship is really tight this year and we are only able to order hoodies for the participants registered.
In the past we would guess how many kids we thought might attend, order the hoodies and hope for the best.
We are in a new financial reality and the luxury is no longer possible.
We have depended on oil & gas sponsorship for many years and that opportunity has dried up in our area. They were $1000.00 & $1,500.00 sponsors. Plus some of our Ag Sponsors are feeling the pinch and are cutting back. We are working hard to replace their support, but that has been tough. Every penny that comes in, goes directly to the show and prizes.
Please pass this message on to any families that you know that are planning to attend & urge them to get their entries in.
They can fax or email their entries and pay the morning of the show. Right now it is the head count & sizes that are important.
Thank you for your understanding,
Cecilie Fleming
403-687-2288
Olds Spring Classic Jackpot Show
And while we're doing BEEF stuff, here is the entry form again for an event similar to that which is listed above, only held right here in our Calgary Region at Olds Agricultural Society, truly one of the best friends of 4-H in both the Calgary Region AND the province of Alberta:
FOUNDATION STUFF...
Here is some information from the 4-H Foundation of Alberta regarding programs and initiatives coming down the proverbial 4-H pipe. And please remember the contact information for the Foundation is:
4-H Foundation of Alberta
RR# 1, Westerose , AB T0C 2V0
Business: (780)-682-2153
Toll Free: 1-877-682-2153
Fax: (780) 682-3784
Alberta 4-H web site/ www.4h.ab.ca
Alberta 4-H Centre web site/ www.4hab.com
WPCA 4-H Mentorship Opportunity
Tire and Electronic Recycling Spring 2010
Many of you have been asking about these fundraisers... so here is the official scoop from the 4-H Foundation of Alberta:
Please see attached documents with information about the Spring 2010 Tire and Electronics Recycling Fundraisers. Could you pass these information documents along to your key leaders as well, as there has been some important changes to the fund-raiser. There will also be updated information going on the website this week. If you have any question we would be happy to answer them.
Rural Roots Run Deep Fund-raising Project with Gord Bamford and 4-H!
Dear Alberta 4-Her,
I would like to take this opportunity to introduce or re-introduce you to the Rural Roots Run Deep Fund-raising Project with Gord Bamford and 4-H. This exciting NEW fund-raiser is very worth your while with the new improvements that have just been made(please see the attached documents or give me a call) Your club has an opportunity to make $9.00 per CD you sell-WOW just think if each club member sells 2 what you could do.
Just a quick note the NEW Day Job CD is HERE and ready to go 1 month early!! It looks and sounds great not to mention that it showcases the 4-H logo on the inside.
There is a lot of opportunity with Gord Bamford yet to come- please call to ask about future possibilities or get involved with the CD fund-raiser.
I look forward to hear from your club.
Susann Stone
Manager, Marketing and Special Projects
4-H Foundation of Alberta
&
Alberta 4-H Council
Administrative Assistant
Email: susann.stone@4hab.com
... and the rest of the 4-H STUFF...
Monsanto Scholarship available
This may be helpful to 4-H members in their final year of high school....
Monsanto is offering post-secondary education scholarships for students from family farms who are enrolled in their final year of high school as of May 14, 2010. Visit www.monsanto.ca for application forms and further information.
Provincial 4-H Horse Show... is a GO!!!
Due to the dogged determination of our own Linda Gooch... and the acceptance of a willing Provincial 4-H Equine Advisory Committee, 2010 will feature the very first ever Provincial 4-H Horse Show held in Olds this August!!! There will be more information coming out about this but, until then, if you are a Level 4 - 7 rider with Alberta 4-H, please mark the dates Tuesday, August 10th to Thursday, August 12th down in your calendar because you will want to be in Olds and participate and compete in the very first Provincial 4-H Horse Show. We are making history here, folks...
So that's all I got for you this week, folks! Best of luck to our speakers and presenters as they get ready for our Regional contest in Strathmore this Saturday. I won't be there since I'm assisting the Southern 4-H Region again this year with their Regional competition in Medicine Hat, but I will be thinking about you and looking forward to Regional Communications Committee Chairman Julie Ulseth's detailed and always-awesome report which I will most certainly be sharing with you next week!
Cheers,
Rob Smith
Mar 10
Good evening, Calgary 4-H Region folks... and here is your 4-H news 'blast' for today... Wednesday, March 10th, 2010!!!
Another STAR among us: Laurie Jacob-Toews - Outstanding Young Leader!!!
Last year was the first year of the UFA Outstanding Young Leader Awards, and we have another recipient this year!
Congratulations go out to Laurie Jacob-Toews of Airdrie for being nominated for and recognized as one of Alberta's five 'best & brightest' 4-H leaders under the age of 35. Please see this Press Release courtesy of Alberta 4-H "Legacy Builder" sponsor, UFA:
UFA 4-H Alumni Award
UFA’s commitment to communities is at the heart of its co-operative and has been for 100 years. Community involvement is integral to the areas in which UFA operates and it is how it stays connected to owners and customers. Alberta 4-H families are UFA members and customers and UFA’s investment in the Alberta 4-H program helps build the next generation of rural leaders.
Alberta 4-H teaches the importance of being an active volunteer and the value of giving back to the community. UFA supports this objective and recognizes the importance of voluntarism through partnering with 4-H. The UFA Alumni Volunteer Service Recognition program awards $2000 gift certificates to five 4-H alumni aged 20-35 who have received a post-secondary education, returned to a rural community after graduation, and continue to volunteer in their communities.
Congratulations to the following 2009 UFA 4-H Alumni Volunteer Service Award recipients from the Calgary Region:
Laurie Jacob-Toews - Airdrie
Laurie has contributed significantly to the Calgary 4-H Region through volunteering and contributing to many regional committees and events. Her hard work and dedication has been especially significant to 4-H communication activities. Thanks to Laurie’s passion for 4-H, she continues to be an outstanding ambassador of the 4-H program.
4-H On Parade Clothing Order
Please see this note from our awesome "all-things-clothing" 4-H On Parade volunteer, Lorraine Parkinson. There are also three attachments entitled: "T shirt 2010.doc", "Windshirt Product Information & Sizing March 2010.doc", and "Order Form March 2010.xls". This is the final form or document you need to consider for your club's entry into 4-H On Parade and it will be posted to the Alberta 4-H website in the next few days:
Hey Rob:
We finally got the pricing today. The type of Windshirt has caused a few problems since it is a slippery material & it is lined. We had to go with a transfer instead of Silk Screening. The cost is $40/Windshirt & $18/T-shirt.
Attached are the order forms and I’ve also done up sheets talking about each of the items. Also, I’ve put in formulas on the order form so Leaders just need to type in the quantity and it will do the calculating for them. There is also individual forms for Youth & Adults so that the club leader can just type name and # in each category. Hopefully that will help everyone out.
Lorraine Parkinson
Regional 4-H Beef Project Learning Day - March 21 - Didsbury!!!
Please take a look at this outstanding workshop for beef producers, including 4-H beef leaders, parents and members, as produced by Regional Key Member Stephanie Rasmussen. Lunch is provided and it will be an informative day with great opportunity for networking. And if you are currently calving, its only for a few short hours...
Progress for Calgary Stampede's International Youth Livestock Show
----- Original Message -----
From: Fraser, Doug On Behalf Of Calgary Stampede Corporate Communications
Sent: Tuesday, March 09, 2010 11:00 AM
To: Staff
Cc: Fraser, Doug
Subject: Calgary Stampede - New partnership
Please find below and attached, a news release regarding a new partnership between the Calgary Stampede and the Olds Agricultural Society which was recently sent to media.
March 4, 2010
news RELEASE International Youth Livestock Show enhanced by new partnership
Calgary – The Calgary Stampede and Olds Agricultural Society are pleased to announce an innovative partnership that will result in a fresh and exciting new direction for the popular International Youth Livestock Show.
In year’s past, the International Youth Livestock Show has been an integral part of the annual Calgary Stampede, with competition taking place over the last four days of The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth. Approximately 90 participants, mostly from communities in Central Alberta, competed in the annual show with special guests from across Canada and the US.
This year, under the new partnership and with the support of Alberta 4-H and Alberta Junior Beef Breed Associations, a much larger, intense and integrated competition will take place at Olds Agricultural Society from July 11 to 16, with the winners in several categories moving on to a Supreme Championship Final at the Calgary Stampede on Saturday, July 17. Over 250 competitors from across western Canada are expected to participate in this collaborative programming between Calgary Stampede and Olds Agricultural Society.
“The International Youth Livestock Show is an engaging way to showcase the keen and knowledgeable future youth of agriculture,” says Tracy Lundago, chair of the Stampede International Youth Livestock Show committee. “This new format will allow us to increase industry awareness, act as a conduit between industry and youth and reward personal development and achievement from competitors across Canada and around the world.”
Young enthusiasts demonstrate their stewardship skills in sheep, dairy cattle, heavy horse or beef species classes and will compete this year for more than $30,000 in scholarship money and prizes.
“Agriculture and youth programs are fundamental to preserving and promoting western heritage and values,” says David Sibbald, Calgary Stampede board director, who has been very involved in the redevelopment of the program. “The Stampede takes a serious role in showcasing the agriculture industry.”
This unique and dynamic program is the first of its kind to elevate and enhance opportunities and experiences for all livestock youth and will remain steadfast and sustainable within industry.
- 30 -
For more information, please contact:
Doug Fraser Tracy Lundago
Media Relations Manager Chair, International Youth Livestock Show
T 403.261.0242 Olds Agricultural Society
C 403.585.3376 T 403-556-3770
F 403.261.0190 E tracy@oldsagsociety.com
E dfraser@calgarystampede.com
The Calgary Stampede is a volunteer-supported, not-for-profit community organization that preserves and promotes western heritage and values. The Stampede contributes to the quality of life in Calgary and southern Alberta through its world-renowned 10-day Stampede, year-round facilities, western events and several youth and agriculture programs. All revenue is reinvested into Calgary Stampede programs and facilities. For more about the Stampede, visit www.calgarystampede.com.
Progress for Calgary Stampede's International Youth Livestock Show
Please read this notice from Lexi Wright, Mountain View Dairy Club Leader, regarding the upcoming dairy judging clinic to be held next week. This is an absolutely outstanding opportunity to learn how to evaluate dairy cattle, one of the greatest challenges I hear from 4-H members in Multi Judging. From a general interest perspective, however, its also a great chance to learn where milk comes from and why a dairy cow is built to produce such a yummy and healthy product!
Everyone,
We are still taking entries for the dairy judging clinic that will be held on March 18th at 5:30pm during the Calgary Dairy classic.
Attached is the form to enter. This is an outstanding opportunity to learn about judging and giving reasons on Dairy cattle. Heifer classes will also be provided this year at this clinic. See more details below.
Lexi Wright
Mountain View Dairy Club
Dairy Judging workshop
As in the past you are invited to attend the following workshop:
Calgary Stampede Dairy Classic Show
Are you interested in learning more about dairy cattle and becoming a better dairy judge? Then plan to attend the Youth Dairy Judging Workshop on Thursday, March 18th. This evening workshop is proudly offered by the Calgary Stampede Dairy Classic Committee and sponsored by BFL Canada. The workshop is open to all youth and is a great chance to improve your judging skills before this year’s multi-judging competitions begin. Participants will have the opportunity to learn about functional conformation of dairy cattle from expert Dr. Gordon Atkins. They will also have the chance to judge a class of top quality dairy cows, a class of dairy heifers and learn how to give oral reasons with instruction from some of the most knowledgeable people in the industry. The clinic takes place in the Agriculture Building at Stampede Park. The cost is $10 and includes a beef on a bun, and there is a special price of $5 for parents and chaperones. This event takes place during the Calgary Stampede Dairy Classic, which also includes a Jersey cattle show and Explosion Heifer Sale on Friday, March 19th and a Holstein cattle show and showmanship classes on Saturday, March 20th. For more information and registration forms visit www.stampedeagriculture.com.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
Danielle Lee - delee.ag@gmail.com - 403-614-8051
And finally... someone needs a home for three horses...
If you have interested or able to take on a new horse, please consider this message below and contact Karen accordingly:
My husband and I are moving from Calgary to Victoria this summer and we are looking for a good home for our 3 horses. Two are older quarter horses which are great for trail riding and kids. The other is a Hanoverian and I have been using him for dressage for the past 5 years. Do you happen to know anyone looking for a good trail or dressage horse? We are not asking anything for them other than a good home. If not, do you have any suggestions as far as finding homes for them?
Thank you,
Karen Urquhart
emmetturquhart@shaw.ca
403-242-6554
And that's it, folks! Until next time... Smith... OUT!!!
Cheers,
Mar 3
Hey folks,
Here is more information for you! Read on, good people...
4-H On Parade
So, for starters, here are some 4-H On Parade forms that I didn't have last week for you. And by the way... this new "Club General Roll-Up" form is essentially a financial form for you to plug your participation numbers into and submit with your entries. You MUST fill this form out electronically (on the computer) since its filled with protected formulas. All you do is drop in the numbers you need of each thing in the highlighted yellow cells or boxes and you're good to go. You can e-mail this to me or print it off. Note, however, that I did not include a Club Name on the form anywhere (silly me) so please submit this with your Club Registration / Accreditation form.
I will send the apparel information and form as soon as I have it. That should be the final thing you are waiting on.
Forms that EVERY club needs to fill out and submit:
Club Registration form - NEW!!! - this form MUST accompany each club's Accreditation Form / entries!!!
Horse Show
Changing of Project Horse form - NEW!!!
Lifeskills Show
Leader's Conference 2011... we need your creativity!!!
Chairman Stacy Price has the following request of our Calgary 4-H Region personalities:
Leader’s Conference 2011
January 14th – 16th, 2011
Red Deer Alberta
I know it seems like we just finished with Leader’s Conference 2010 and you can hardly think about summer, forget January 2011………..but we need you to start thinking ahead.
For those of you who don’t know the Calgary Region is hosting the 2011 Leader’s Conference. We are very excited about it and planning is well underway.
Our theme for 2011 is “Show Us YOUR 4-H Colors”, so what does that mean? We want to showcase our clubs and our 4-H colors in the region. Decorations will be consisting of 4-H clothing, club decorations, the names of all the clubs around the hotel. Dressing up for Friday night will be leaders wearing club uniforms or 4-H clothing in general. There will be prizes!!! For example if you can still fit into your old uniform from when you were a member, put it on you may be in for a prize.
LOGO CONTEST
We are also looking for any talented member or leader to submit a logo for the conference. The logo will be a hand print, so come up with your best submission and it will be judged at our April 21st meeting. It must have the following:
· Handprint
· LC 2011
· Calgary Region
· 4-H
Submit your mock up to Stacy Price @ calgary1@4hab.com
Deadline is April 19th the winning logo will be displayed throughout leader’s conference 2011 on our clothing and bags, and you will win a great prize.
Good luck - LC 2011 Planning Committee
University of Alberta Multi-Species Judging Contest - April 10th, 2010
Please find attached the registration form for the University of Alberta Multi-Species Judging Competition. The competition is open to 4-H members ages 9-21 and will be held in conjunction with the Farm and Ranch show at Northlands in Edmonton on April 10, 2010. Registration starts at 10:30 am with judging to commence at 11 am. If you could forward the registration form to all the district and/or club leaders that would be greatly appreciated.
Marissa Weleschuk - weleschu@ualberta.ca
Alberta 4-H Scholarship program - deadline to apply: Wednesday, May 5th, 2010
The application form is now live and on-line!!! Here is the address: http://www.4h.ab.ca/About/scholarships.html
...as well as some information from the 4-H Foundation of Alberta regarding this program that awards thousand and thousands of dollars every year to deserving current and past 4-H members.
Gord Bamford & Alberta 4-H - your club's opportunity to make some money!!!
By selling one of Canada's hottest musical artist's cd's for $15, your club gets to keep $4, raise $1 for Alberta 4-H's Legacy Fund! What a good deal! Gord is a great friend of 4-H... maybe because he is a past member in Lacombe! Anyway, here is the web address for more information...
http://www.4h.ab.ca/News_Events/fundraisers.html#commission ... or a one-sheeter advertising the program:
Provincial 4-H Beef Heifer Show - the proper dates!!!
Please know that the information in the last Alberta 4-H magazine is incorrect!!! The proper dates for the 2010 Provincial 4-H Beef Heifer Show are Monday, July 12th to Wednesday, July 14th... just before the new Calgary Stampede / Olds Ag. Society youth show. Move-in for the Provincial 4-H Beef Heifer Show is Sunday, July 11th. And if you have any questions about this outstanding show (the largest 4-H member program in Alberta each year), please let me know.
Chinook Junior Livestock Show - Claresholm, AB - Wednesday, April 7th, 2010 Here is the entry form and information for this ever-popular event:
Finally... My Olympic send-off to you fine 4-H folks...
What a great 17 days that was, no? The Men's Gold Medal Hockey Game was the absolute most thrilling sporting experience of my life as a spectator. Such fun! Such thrills! And such patriotism. And, in closing, I want to share with you the 'smash' poet, Shane Koyczan's, Opening Ceremonies presentation:
We Are More
by Shane Koyczan
When defining Canada
you might list some statistics
you might mention our tallest building
or biggest lake
you might shake a tree in the fall
and call a red leaf Canada
you might rattle off some celebrities
might mention Buffy Sainte-Marie
might even mention the fact that we've got a few
Barenaked Ladies
or that we made these crazy things
like zippers
electric cars
and washing machines
when defining Canada
it seems the world's anthem has been
" been there done that"
and maybe that's where we used to be at
it's true
we've done and we've been
we've seen
all the great themes get swallowed up by the machine
and turned into theme parks
but when defining Canada
don't forget to mention that we have set sparks
we are not just fishing stories
about the one that got away
we do more than sit around and say "eh?"
and yes
we are the home of the Rocket and the Great One
who inspired little number nines
and little number ninety-nines
but we're more than just hockey and fishing lines
off of the rocky coast of the Maritimes
and some say what defines us
is something as simple as please and thank you
and as for you're welcome
well we say that too
but we are more
than genteel or civilized
we are an idea in the process
of being realized
we are young
we are cultures strung together
then woven into a tapestry
and the design
is what makes us more
than the sum total of our history
we are an experiment going right for a change
with influences that range from a to zed
and yes we say zed instead of zee
we are the colours of Chinatown and the coffee of Little Italy
we dream so big that there are those
who would call our ambition an industry
because we are more than sticky maple syrup and clean snow
we do more than grow wheat and brew beer
we are vineyards of good year after good year
we reforest what we clear
because we believe in generations beyond our own
knowing now that so many of us
have grown past what used to be
we can stand here today
filled with all the hope people have
when they say things like "someday"
someday we'll be great
someday we'll be this
or that
someday we'll be at a point
when someday was yesterday
and all of our aspirations will pay the way
for those who on that day
look towards tomorrow
and still they say someday
we will reach the goals we set
and we will get interest on our inspiration
because we are more than a nation of whale watchers and lumberjacks
more than backpacks and hiking trails
we are hammers and nails building bridges
towards those who are willing to walk across
we are the lost-and-found for all those who might find themselves at a loss
we are not the see-through gloss or glamour
of those who clamour for the failings of others
we are fathers brothers sisters and mothers
uncles and nephews aunts and nieces
we are cousins
we are found missing puzzle pieces
we are families with room at the table for newcomers
we are more than summers and winters
more than on and off seasons
we are the reasons people have for wanting to stay
because we are more than what we say or do
we live to get past what we go through
and learn who we are
we are students
students who study the studiousness of studying
so we know what as well as why
we don't have all the answers
but we try
and the effort is what makes us more
we don't all know what it is in life we're looking for
so keep exploring
go far and wide
or go inside but go deep
go deep
as if James Cameron was filming a sequel to The Abyss
and suddenly there was this location scout
trying to figure some way out
to get inside you
because you've been through hell and high water
and you went deep
keep exploring
because we are more
than a laundry list of things to do and places to see
we are more than hills to ski
or countryside ponds to skate
we are the abandoned hesitation of all those who can't wait
we are first-rate greasy-spoon diners and healthy-living cafes
a country that is all the ways you choose to live
a land that can give you variety
because we are choices
we are millions upon millions of voices shouting
" keep exploring... we are more"
we are the surprise the world has in store for you
it's true
Canada is the "what" in "what's new?"
so don't say "been there done that"
unless you've sat on the sidewalk
while chalk artists draw still lifes
on the concrete of a kid in the street
beatboxing to Neil Young for fun
don't say you've been there done that
unless you've been here doing it
let this country be your first-aid kit
for all the times you get sick of the same old same old
let us be the story told to your friends
and when that story ends
leave chapters for the next time you'll come back
next time pack for all the things
you didn't pack for the first time
but don't let your luggage define your travels
each life unravels differently
and experiences are what make up
the colours of our tapestry
we are the true north
strong and free
and what's more
is that we didn't just say it
we made it be.
To all of our members competing in Zone and Area as well as District Communications contests, as well as those of you in basketball and hockey play-offs, please accept my wishes for the best of luck. And do remember... the fact you are DOING this is more important than the actual "win"!
Please let me know if you have any questions! Thanks a bunch!
Cheers,
Rob Smith
Feb 25
Good day everyone, and here is 'all the news' that's fit to 'blast' for today! There is so much, in fact, that I'm going to send you TWO messages today! The next one (and I apologize ahead of time because it is a BIGGIE!) is all about 4-H On Parade. I would just send you the links to this information and the forms on the Alberta 4-H website, but I don't think its going to get posted until early next week and I don't want to miss any of your March meetings, some of which happen early next week. So here is "1 of 2"... the other to follow closely on the heels of this one.
First off, I hope you have caught Olympic fever! I know we're not going to 'own the podium' in quite the way we hoped, but it seems like we are doing really, really well, don't you think! Right now Team Canada is playing for the Women's Hockey Gold against Team USA while Kevin Martin's Alberta foursome is leading Team Sweden for the right to play for the Gold Medal in Men's Curling. A couple colleagues and I went to the Flames for lunch here in Airdrie to watch the last three ends as Calgary's own Cheryl Bernard bested Switzerland to move to tomorrow's Gold Medal game against Sweden. Some of us were here last night for a meeting while Team Canada raised our national spirit by summarily dismissing Team Russia from Gold Medal contention in men's hockey, and both Anita Beaudin and Linda Ross kept us all informed via texting... thank heavens for modern technology! I just have to say that is has been positively joyous attending meetings and dealing with folks these last couple of weeks when the first topic of conversation is ALWAYS our nation's latest success at the Olympics. Anyway, I hope you are enjoying what if feels like to be Canadian as much as I am these Olympic days...
Winter Bonanza
We had over 60 campers, counsellors and staff participate in our first 'for-a-very-long-time' regional winter camp at River's Edge just south and west of Cremona each of the last two weekends. By the evaluations it appears that our Junior and Intermediate members as well as volunteer counsellors and staff had a grand time and work is already being done to plan the Winter Bonanza 2011 campaign! Many thanks to our team: Staff and organizers Rita-Marie Leask and Myranda Stewart, Marina Matson, Laura Shuttleworth, Cody Harrison (a great Southern import!) and Counsellors Sawyer Daley, Gina Long, Jenna Konschuk, Kelly Gallelli and Rob Dodds who served 'double-duty' as the lone guy counsellor BOTH weekends!
2010 Selections
With a level of attendance that has been shrinking for three consecutive years, we decided to push this program a bit more this year. After all, Selections is the program at which we award dozens of trips to Alberta 4-H members to travel and represent us across our nation and even into the United States as well as determine our Ambassador Team for the next two years and, finally, to select the bearer of the highest honour in our program: the Premier's Award. It only makes sense to do a bit better marketing for this program, particularly when its audience is the very same as Senior Member's Conference, a program with an annual waiting list that takes place during high school semester break. Well, Calgary most definitely 'stepped up' to the challenge and we have 29 members going to Selections out of the 140 who signed up. In my 8 years as your 4-H Specialist, this is significantly higher than our best year and, I believe, the largest number of Calgary delegates to attend Selections for a long, long time... if not ever! So congratulations, Calgary, for deciding to support Provincial 4-H Selections! It is an awesome weekend and you won't be disappointed! And best of luck to all our delegates. I hope (and suspect) that "a good time will be had by all"...
*** !!! *** Olympic alert *** !!! ***
The 18-year-old phenom Marie-Philip Poulin has put Canada on the board with two first-period goals against the U.S. in the Women's Gold Medal hockey game. And Kevin Martin leads the Swedes by a score of 6-2 after 8 ends. This is looking good...
Livestock PID's, Traceability, and all that stuff...
There is quite a bit of concern and questions regarding Premise Identification numbers with respect to the upcoming 4-H show and sale season. Although we are preparing a document to share with all 4-H personalities that I will likely 'blast' out to you in the next couple of weeks, because I'm getting a lot of calls there are a few tidbits of information that I would like to share with you that will hopefully answer many of your questions. So here goes:
1) Every site that has a 4-H project animal on it (save for pets) MUST have a Premise Identification number (PID);
2) Whether you own farm land or an acreage, you will qualify for a PID. Even if you don't own livestock and its only for your children's 4-H animals, if you own land, you can achieve a PID since a PID is directly related to your legal land location;
3) You can achieve a PID number by contacting your local Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development office. Otherwise, here is the address to find the application form: http://www1.agric.gov.ab.ca/$department/deptdocs.nsf/all/trace12354/$FILE/Premises_Identification_Application.pdf;
4) I have been told that, if you haven't applied yet for your PID, or are still waiting from a previous application, you are likely not going to receive your PID prior to the show and sale campaign. Do not worry!!! When transporting your animals, on the livestock manifest that you will be filling out, just put your legal land description in the spot where the PID goes; to the best of my knowledge, Brand Inspectors are accepting this without question.
5) If you have a PID and are wondering about your kids or other livestock on your place, you can have any many User ID's as you can imagine attached to your PID. I suggest you actually obtain a User ID for each of your children and anyone else who own livestock on your place.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact your local ARD office. Traceability is here to stay, folks, and we will be doing a lot more training with respect to this in the coming year with 4-H. But I will have more information on that in the coming weeks and months...
Bow Valley 4-H Schooling Horse Show
This annual event will be taking place this year on Saturday, May 8th, 2010. For the deadline, entry forms or more information, please contact Maggie Smart-Miller at mac3@platinum.ca.
Dairy Judging workshop
As in the past you are invited to attend the following workshop:
Calgary Stampede Dairy Classic Show
Are you interested in learning more about dairy cattle and becoming a better dairy judge? Then plan to attend the Youth Dairy Judging Workshop on Thursday, March 18th. This evening workshop is proudly offered by the Calgary Stampede Dairy Classic Committee and sponsored by BFL Canada. The workshop is open to all youth and is a great chance to improve your judging skills before this year’s multi-judging competitions begin. Participants will have the opportunity to learn about functional conformation of dairy cattle from expert Dr. Gordon Atkins. They will also have the chance to judge a class of top quality dairy cows, a class of dairy heifers and learn how to give oral reasons with instruction from some of the most knowledgeable people in the industry. The clinic takes place in the Agriculture Building at Stampede Park. The cost is $10 and includes a beef on a bun, and there is a special price of $5 for parents and chaperones. This event takes place during the Calgary Stampede Dairy Classic, which also includes a Jersey cattle show and Explosion Heifer Sale on Friday, March 19th and a Holstein cattle show and showmanship classes on Saturday, March 20th. For more information and registration forms visit www.stampedeagriculture.com.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
Danielle Lee - delee.ag@gmail.com - 403-614-8051
It's that time of year again... Aggie Days!!!
Please see this note from the 2006 Premier's Award recipient, Ryan Hodgson, one of our greatest recent past 4-H members. And do sign up to help at Aggie Days! It is ALWAYS a great time...
Hi Calgary 4-H Region!
As you probably know Aggie Days is coming up in March and like every other year we are looking for some 4-H volunteers. We sent out letters to club leaders a few weeks ago, but don't want to miss anyone. Please accept this information and invitation to work with our greatest Calgary 4-H Region partner, the Calgary Stampede, for this year's Aggie Days!
Hope all is well.
Cheers,
Ryan
*** !!! *** Olympic alert *** !!! ***
Kevin Martin, Ben, Mark and Johnny Mo will battle for Gold on Saturday! YEAH!!! You have to imagine my pumping my fist along with this proclamation! And I think the entire nation is sending Joanne Rochet our best possible energy for her long program in just a few hours. It seems like the bronze is certainly hers... but maybe even silver? And with the right combination of her achieving perfection... even better?
Did you know a couple of 4-Hers ran with the Olympic torch back in January? I can't remember if I forwarded this address or not... so here goes:
http://www.agrimarketing.com/show_story.php?id=58721
Horse and Beef Bowl... starts next week...
Want to test your horse or beef knowledge? On-Line Horse Bowl and On-Line Beef Bowl is happening from March 5 - 14, 2010. These challenges give 4-H members a chance to test your equine / beef knowledge and to win prizes. This year first place winners will receive a trip to the Farm and Ranch Show, including hotel accommodation. Additionally, Lammle's gift certificates will be awarded to 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners in each age category. The presenting partner for the On-Line Bowl program is Northlands Farm and Ranch Show. Other sponsors are Apache Canada. Lammle's Tack and Western Wear and Olds College.
Members who participate in the contest sign onto a web-site during the program time period and are given a certain amount of time (the exact amount depends upon which age group you are in - Junior, Intermediate or Senior) to answer questions.
If you are interested in more information check out this link:
http://www.4h.ab.ca/EventDetails.aspx?a=242
If you want to register, you can go directly to this link:
http://digilearn.nait.ab.ca/olds/survey/Survey.aspx?s=6e3b9fbe-3598-46a6-9946-51cfe7db61b2
Best of luck!!!
4-H Fabric For Sale
The East Central Regional 4-H Council ordered some 4-H Fabric which it had available for sale at Leaders' Conference 2010. It quickly sold out and a new order will be placed on March 1st. The fabric is green with white 4-H logos and the word "4-H" on it in a random print. The logos are about 2.5 inches square The printed area is approximately 54 inches wide. The fabric is a poly-cotton blend. The cost per metre is $ 25. If you would like to obtain some of the fabric, please contact Janet Kerr, 4-H Specialist East and Wester Central Regions, telephone 403-742-7547 (If you want to see a picture of the fabric, she can e-mail one to you) - janet.kerr@gov.ab.ca.
STAY TUNED FOR INFORMATION ABOUT 4-H SCRAPBOOK PAPER!
Olds College Judging Competition
To whom it may concern
Just sending out this reminder to all of you if you could get it out to your clubs! The olds college judging competition is March 13,2010 here at the school.
Thank-you so much
Sarah Reich, OC Judging Club Secretary
4-H Fund-raisers
I have had A LOT of you ask about the Tire Recycling fund-raiser, as well as others. Please see this communication from the Foundation CEO, Bruce Banks, regarding the status of Tire Recycling. And just a hint... its very good news!
Rob,
Tire & Electronics recycling will be offered in 2010.
We know that we will once again have a budget for the amount of tires we can collect and have also been told that a budget will be provided for the amount of electronics that can be collected by Alberta 4-H. We anticipate knowing the budget amounts prior to middle of March 2010.
Clubs should NOT be collecting tires or electronics outside the collection times approved by Recycling Alberta. The forms will be changing for both tire and electronic recycling.
Once we know the new collection dates and any change in what can be picked up and what cannot we will be sending this information to the Regional Specialists so that they can include the information in their email blasts. We will also be asking to put the information up on the web site.
Please call me if you require any other information.
Thanks,
Bruce Banks
Chief Executive Officer
4-H Foundation of Alberta
Bus: (780) 682-2153
Toll Free: 1-877-682-2153
Cell: (780) 621-8265
banks@4hab.com
www.4h.ab.ca
The 4-H Foundation of Alberta respects your privacy. We protect your personal information and adhere to all legislative requirements with respect to protecting privacy. We do not rent, sell or trade our mailing lists. If at any time you wish to be removed from our list, please contact us by phone (780) 682-2153, fax (780) 682-3784 or via our web site www.4h.ab.ca and we will gladly accommodate your request.
And, as always, if you have any questions about these fund-raisers, your best bet is ALWAYS to contact the Foundation because they do truly know BEST!!!
Youth Draft Horse Driving Clinic
This was a lot of fun last year, was well-attended, and so...
... the Alberta Percheron Club is once again hosting it's annual Youth Driving Clinic on April 3 & 4, 2010. Please accept the attached information for your clubs or anyone who may be interested in this clinic. We host this clinic for the main purpose to get youth horse enthusiasts the opportunity to learn how to work with draft horses and also to learn how to harness and drive.
If you have any questions you can contact myself or Keven Graham at 403-227-1722.
Julie Roy
AB Percheron Club Secretary
403-728-3127
Good heavens... I believe that's all! Please remember the Regional Horse Committee Meeting here at the Ag. Centre at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 10th. Our Regional Communications Contests take place on Saturday, March 20th and our Regional Key Members, Stephanie Rasmussen and Edith Wouters, are at it again with a Regional Beef Workshop on Sunday, March 21st in Olds. More information is coming about these items, so please stay tuned...
And know that I'm going to send another message immediately after this one with all the 4-H On Parade information you could EVER want!
Cheers,
Rob Smith
Feb 2
Good day, Calgary 4-H Region personalities...
Please accept all the information required for Wednesday night's Regional Council Meeting, including the Agenda. Please understand that this meeting is NOT a required meeting for your club to attend, but the information contained therein is pretty interesting and the networking opportunity is great.
Regional Council Meeting stuff...
There are a couple of other items for you to consider...
The Alberta Percheron Club is once again hosting it's annual Youth Driving Clinic on April 3 & 4, 2010
Please forward the attached information to your clubs or anyone who may be interested in this clinic. We host this clinic for the main purpose to get youth horse enthusiasts the opportunity to learn how to work with draft horses and also to learn how to harness and drive.
If you have any questions you can contact myself or Keven Graham at 403-227-1722.
Julie Roy
AB Percheron Club Secretary
403-728-3127
Congratulations to the Eagle 4-H Beef Club!!!
They celebrated their 50th Anniversary on Saturday night, joining the elite ranks of 50+ year clubs in the Calgary 4-H Region and, indeed, the province. This is my old club (member - 8 years; leader - 5 years) so I must admit to a extra-special feeling of pride and joy for the families that have comprised the members and leaders over a half-century at the far north end of our Region. Congratulations, folks and, as stated as a club mantra in the past... EAGLE ROCKS!!!
Cheers,
Rob Smith
Jan 28
Folks,
Just a few quick notes...
1) Monday is the deadline for Winter Bonanza!!! We have over 20 Junior and Intermediate members signed up for each of the great weekends in February. If you would still like to get in, I will have to have your applications EARLY next week so we can book the meals at River's Edge, just west of Cremona. Here is the information if you are interested:
2) There is a Regional Council Meeting at the Airdrie Ag. Centre next Wednesday night, February 3rd. If you have any items for the Agenda, please submit them to me by 3:00 P.M. next Monday. I will be sending the Agenda out around 5:00 p.m. on Monday, February 1st. Also, any Districts or Committees with reports, this is a good time to prepare them and send them to me for inclusion with the sending of the Agenda.
3) "4-H Night With the Hitmen" went over very, very well! We should be most proud of our Regional Key Members, Stephanie Rasmussen and Edith Wouters, for all their hard work in getting this arranged. Here is a brief report from Stephanie, the 'driver' of this new and outstanding event:
We had around 500 members and their families attend the game. It seemed that everyone that I talked to had a good time at the game and enjoyed it all. The Flames/Hitmen people are great to work with. I had Dan constantly phoning and asking if there was anything that he could to help us or if we needed anymore tickets etc. He also found dad that night and was making sure that everything was ok and if we had any issues just to come and find him. I know that you were also talking about doing another game and I know that Dan would just be as willing to help us with another. I don’t know how much of a deal we will get if we do the Flames game. But it’s definitely worth a shot.
So maybe we'll be looking at TWO 4-H Hockey nights each year... one with the Hitmen and one with the Flames. Stay tuned for more information...
4) Here is the summary of winners from the Judging Contest held almost two weeks ago in Olds:
There were close to 300 members participating and I continue to be 'bowled over' by the excellence of our members in this skill as well as the dozens and dozens of volunteers who step up to help out. Our thanks must go to the Mountainview District for their organization of this long-standing and supremely well-organized and well-attended event; it is the single largest judging contest in the province and one of the biggest 4-H activities!!!
5) On that note about judging...
If your members are giving you grief about having to judge... tell them about our own Kelsey Cartwright, member of the Jumping Pound Beef Club and Key Member for the Rockyview District. Kelsey attended Provincial Judging in Vermilion last August and made the Top 10. She was awarded a trip to Billings, Montana to the NILE Judging Contest. This morning she received a call from a College in Wyoming offering her a scholarship to come to their school and be part of their judging team. Kelsey hopes to pursue academic studies that put her toward veterinarian training, and the general two year study is offered at the College who is pursuing her! Kelsey and her proud parents are going down during the Family Day break in February to check out the school, but I just want everyone to know the potential outcome for having a bit of focus in the judging stream of 4-H development. Kelsey... your entire region... and, indeed, Alberta's 4-H program, is proud of your accomplishment and wish you the best with this potential opportunity. You can follow in the footsteps of such outstanding former Alberta 4-H Ambassadors from the Calgary Region like Aaron Grant and Brody Gardner who also attended school in the United States on Judging Scholarships. Way to go, Kelsey!!!
That's it, folks. You'll be hearing from me again on Monday with the Agenda for the Regional Council Meeting. Until then, share that Winter Bonanza application form and let's see if we can raise the total campers on each weekend to 30+ or even higher. Our own past 4-H members Myranda Stewart and Rita-Marie Leask (Ambassadors, both of them) are planning an outstanding weekend of fun and games so let's get registered!!!
Cheers,
Rob Smith
Jan 15
Good day! We are 15 full days into this New Year... I hope its going AWESOMELY for you!
Here is just some good information for you so please read, absorb and share!!!
Regional Judging - Saturday, January 16th in Olds!!!
Tomorrow is our first Regional Judging Contest... and what a group we've got! Just look at these clubs and how many entries they each have:
Airdrie Beef - 11
Airdrie Flying Hooves & Paws - 2
Airdrie Helping Hands - 2
Balzac - 17
Bergen - 10
Big Hill West - 10
Central Beiseker Beef & Multi - 13
Cheadle - 5
Cremona - 22
Crossfield-Madden - 15
Crowfoot Multi - 3
Eagle - 14
Golden Rod - 7
Halter & Harness - 7
Irricana Beef & Multi - 4
Jumping Pound - 8
Midnight Express - 11
Mountain View Dairy - 18
Olds - 2
Outlaws - 23
Prairie Partners - 13
Ropes & Reins - 11
Silver Sage - 2
Standard Sheep - 2
Sundre - 24
Three Hills Ghost Pine Beef - 1
Three Hills Wranglers - 4
West Carstairs - 19
West Didsbury - 18
Westglen Wranglers - 11
This means a sum total of 310 4-H members entered, making this the largest Judging Contest BY FAR in the province... and I suspect, the nation!!! Kudos to you all and best of luck!
Remember... success in judging can lead to opportunities to represent Alberta at contests throughout the nation. Already this year, Alberta 4-H members, including some from Calgary, have competed in Regina, Saskatchewan; Billings, Montana; and Denver, Colorado as a result of their placing at the Provincial 4-H Multi Species Judging Contest held annually in Vermilion in August. If you are a Senior 4-H member, you could "catch the (judging) bug" and represent us in cool places like these as well!!!
And while you're in Olds... or shortly before... catch the flame of the OLYMPIC TORCH!!!
Things are just 'bustin' out all over' in Olds tomorrow, as the 2008 Vancouver Olympic torch continues its path all the way from Athens, Greece (birthplace of the Olympic Games) to our neighbor to the west, British Columbia. The torch will be passing through Olds just after 8:00 a.m. tomorrow - Saturday, January 16th, 2010. Come early to judging and be part of the torch run!
Here is a note of invitation from the Town of Olds:
The Olympic flame will pass through Olds tomorrow, Saturday 16 January between 8.17 am and 8.34 am. The torch run will start at Town Office (far east side of town, just as you are entering on Highway 27... even before the Best Western Hotel and Boston Pizza), proceed west on 46 Street (hwy 27), and south down the length of 50 Avenue. Please note that 50 Avenue will be closed to parking and traffic on Saturday 16 January from 7.30 am to 9.00 am. Come and cheer on Dave Harris as he runs with the torch through Uptowne Olds! Following the torch run, enjoy FREE hot coffee and hot chocolate in the ATB parking lot, and bring your camera for photo opportunities! More info at this link: http://www.olds.ca/community/torch.pdf
The torch will best be viewed while traveling through the Uptowne Core on 50th Avenue between Highway 27 and 54th Street. A heated tent will be set up on the corner of 50th Avenue and 50th Street in the south parking lot of the ATB Financial building. There will be hot chocolate, coffee and Timbits provided. Free flags and toques will be available for all those who wish to cheer on the torch runners. Olympic sponsor RBC will also have some extra goodies to hand out to guests.
Bring your cameras for a personal photo op with an Olympic torch runner and their torches. There will be both Olympic Luge and Skeleton sleds and maybe even a Bobsled for you to pose with. And be sure to sign the 16-foot Olympic banner which will be hung in the local Sportsplex. These photo ops will start at 7:00 a.m.
Message from our fearless 4-H On Parade leader... Please see this letter from our 4-H On Parade Committee Chairman, Laurie Jacob-Toews:
Our own Leader Linda Gooch, one of the best in history!!!
At last weekend's Provincial 4-H Leader's Conference, Linda Gooch was awarded the "Golden Clover" award from the Alberta 4-H Council. She won this award as part of a group involving Muffy Knox and Dixie Crowson (one of my great SOUTH region leaders!) and their role in leading the creation of the awesome Equine project video we inaugurated last year for Alberta 4-H. This video has led to accolades across the nation with almost every province starting to use it and we are now getting some of the United States requesting "that awesome Alberta horse video" now as well.
So "all hail" Linda! She is a true example of 4-H leadership!!!
Winter Bonanza...
Please remember the January 31st deadline for our new Junior and Intermediate Calgary 4-H Region Winter Camp. We have over 30 applicants already so it is filling up. If you need a form, please let me know.
Selections...
Today is the deadline for Alberta 4-H Selections, the program for Senior members that gives them travel opportunities across Canada and the United States as well as determined our Ambassador Team for the next two years. And, besides those reasons, its just a super-cool, fun experience for Senior members. I would like to see our Calgary 'team' a little larger heading into this year's program, so if you want to go, please let me know. I just need your completed application form, cheque and all your 4-H diaries. If you want to discuss coming to Selections, please give me a call or an e-mail.
If you are a Beef Project Member, you might like to know about...
The Olds Agricultural Society "Spring Classic"! Here is the information:
And I think that's all, folks, for now! Until the next time...
Cheers,
Rob Smith
Jan 2
Good Saturday morning, 4-H folks! Happy New Year! And welcome to 2010!
I am going to wax a bit rhapsodical to open this message, but please rest assured there is important 4-H news contained further down. If you are not interested in my ruminations, then please scroll down to the coloured titles below...
First off, everyone please be safe when you are out and about this winter. We've already had our share of terrible road conditions and its not getting any better. I am supposed to be in Brooks right now for their first multi species judging contest of this 2009-10 4-H year, but given how icy QEII was this morning (between 6:00 & 7:00 a.m.) with that north west wind blowing snow, I decided Ginny will have to work that event on her own today because I don't want to make that two-hour drive on the #1. Personal safety should always be our first and foremost priority so please give yourself lots of time if you have to get someplace and if you question whether or not the roads are good enough for you, then DON'T GO!!! If you are questioning the worthiness of driving somewhere, then its not worth it!!!
So... here we go... into 2010!!! Our second decade of this new millennium. How exciting...
We're all geared up for the Olympics (February 12 - 28 in Vancouver and Whistler!!!) and certainly for good reason, but did you also know that the United Nations has designated 2010 the International Year of Biodiversity? Also, the World Expo is being held for the very first time in Shanghai this year from May 1 o October 30. Shanghai has been a 'twin' city with Montreal since 1985; of course Montreal hosted Expo '67, the most successful World's Fair up to that point. Vancouver would do so in 1986 while Edmonton is proposed to host Expo in 2017. And 2010 is a World Cup year for FIFA, which will bring millions of people to South Africa in June and July. Whether you call it soccer or football, this is the worlds most popular sporting event, so it is a big deal!
Canada will be on the international stage again a few months after the Olympics when Huntsville and Toronto, Ontario respectively hosts the G8 and G20 Summits.
Although the date is not fixed, GM will unveil its new production model of the Chevrolet Volt electric car.
And finally, the Space Shuttle program will be retired by NASA and replaced by Project Constellation. This project will include new space vehicles called Ares I and Ares V launch vehicles, as well as the Orion capable of traveling to the Space Station, to the Moon, and eventually to Mars.
And this brings me to where, as a young lad, I first thought about 2010: with the help of a famous work of fiction and the dream of flying in space.
In 1982 at the age of 13 I read Sir Arthur C. Clarke's "2010: Odyssey 2", his sequel to "2001: A Space Odyssey". For whatever reason, I was a bit of a science fiction nut, and couldn't wait for this book to come out. When the movie version followed during the Christmas holidays of 1984, I was spellbound. But I must admit... I couldn't even begin to imagine as a mid-teenager that the year 2010 would even... EVER... arrive! Good heavens... I would be in my 40's by then! It was absolutely unfathomable to me...
And now here we are... one full day into 2010. And you know what? Life is pretty much the same as it was in 1982. And 1984.
There are certainly new machines and equipment designed to make our lives easier and makes the "Big Blue Marble" that is Planet Earth seem more like a community at-large than so separate and distinct. But kids still go to school, adults still go to work, we raise livestock and crops in fundamentally the same way (only on a bigger scale with bigger equipment), the environment is still a concern, we laugh at jokes and cry at sad movies and so, in the 1960's words of Sonny & Cher, "The Beat Goes On"...
There were some prophecies, however, that Clarke foretold in his "2010" work of fiction. The predicate of the story is a space mission (to Jupiter, actually) co-managed by the United States and Russia. Back in 1982, it was virtually impossible to believe that these two countries, still fighting the Cold War, could or would ever be allies. Now, they are collaborating on the International Space Station (even though some areas of diplomacy and governance still strain their relations). Clarke indicated that China would become a 'superpower', and give challenge to the two mighty countries mentioned above, and they certainly do now, with the worlds largest economy. But fundamentally, as people, we are the same. And, maybe most importantly to me, we still learn and grow and have a tremendous amount of fun being involved with the 4-H program!
When "2010" came out, I remember Time magazine writing this comment in its review of the book:
"2010 deftly blends discovery, philosophy, and a newly acquired sense of play."
Now, I think these are good words to take into our new year of 2010... discovery... philosophy... and a sense of play! I think we should all try to incorporate those three actions into our lives this year.
Okay... so that is my personal philosophy for the year! Thanks very much for the indulgence... and now on to the true purpose for this message!!!
Time is running out if you want to attend the 4-H Night with the Calgary Hitmen!
Regional Key Member Stephanie Rasmussen will be finalizing the ticket order early this week, and has currently heard from the following clubs:
Airdrie (not sure if this is Helping Hands, Beef or Flying Hooves... so if you are one of these clubs and want to confirm your involvement, please contact Stephanie);
Golden Rod Multi;
Prairie Winds;
Crossfield-Madden Beef;
Jumping Pond Beef;
Calgary Southpaws.
To contact Stephanie, please e-mail her at rasmussen@xplornet.com. Thank you very much!!!
Additions to my Provincial 4-H Horse Classic results from last month...
As sometimes happens, I missed some names of great 4-Hers in the Calgary 4-H Region who had big time accomplishments at this event held back last summer. Many thanks to April Walters for bringing this to my attention. So we also should recognize...
... the great placings from the Big Hill West Horse Club members from the Calgary Region who attended Horse Classic 2009:
Hippology - Annessa Good was on the 3rd Place team;
Top Marketing Individuals:
Savanna Koebisch - 1st Place in her category;
Chad Cena - 1st Place in her category;
Annessa Good - 3rd Place in her category.
Again... many kudos to these outstanding 4-H members for their summer achievements. I look forward to spotlighting those 'really big feats' as they take place throughout this 2009-10 4-H year!
And on that note... that's all I've got for today! I know Ginny has been registering southern 4-H members for an hour now, and they are just about to commence their Judging Contest. I haven't received a call yet so I guess all is well in Brooks. Just as it typically is with 4-H folks... self-reliant, trouble-free, low maintenance, easy-going, adaptable. I do love working with all of you and with this program. Here's to a great... GRAND... 2010!!!
May you LIVE everyday of this year!
Dec 18
Good day, everyone!
There are only six shopping days until Christmas and I'm in the shape I was in almost a month ago. In the middle of November, it seemed pretty good. Now, I think maybe I'm starting to scramble a little. One thing is constantly in good shape, however, and that is the 4-H clubs and councils from across the Region. We've had a solid start to the year, and I'm thrilled to report that "all is calm / all is bright" on our Calgary 4-H scene!
This 'blast' includes some reminder, some news, and my greeting to you for this festive holiday season.
Upcoming deadlines...
- AgriVenture 4-H Adventure Opportunity 2010 - January 1st, 2010
- 53rd Annual Provincial 4-H Selections - January 15th, 2010 (wanna go on a cool trip or become a 4-H Ambassador? Or just have fun in Olds for a weekend in May? This program is for you!)
- 6th Bi-Annual Provincial 4-H Equine Leaders' Forum (PELF) - January 15th, 2010
- Alberta Girls Parliament - January 15th, 2010
- 2010 W. Garfield Weston Foundation 4-H United Kingdom Exchange - February 1st, 2010
If you have any questions about these awesome programs, check out the Alberta 4-H magazine you just got last or this week, or contact me...
Calgary 4-H Regional Curling Funspeil - February 15th, 2010
Here is the application form for this long-standing and always-fun event. Please note the deadline to enter is February 3rd, 2010. The organizer of this event, Earl Ziegler, has been doing so for over 25 years, since back in the day when I attended as a curler. We recognized Earl last month with a Special Regional Award, so three cheers for Earl... and three cheers for the funnest bonspeil on 16 rocks!
Regional Judging - January 16th, 2010 - Olds Cow Palace
I also sent this out a couple of weeks ago. We would love to break the number 300 for 4-H members attending the contest this year. We've been close in the past with 260 - 280, well let's set an 'all-time high' to kick off the next decade! The deadline is January 12, 2010 to me. And I just want to do a shout-out to my old club, Eagle 4-H Beef Club, for having the FIRST application submitted... YAY EAGLE!!!
4-H comes to the Calgary Hitmen!!! - January 22nd, 2010
Please remember the deadline for your club to participate in the January 22nd "4-H Night with the Hitmen"! This is being organized by our Regional Key Members Stephanie Rasmussen and Edith Wouters, and I sent you the form a couple of weeks ago. If you need it again, please let me know. And if you want to go (at $9/person, its truly a 'steal of a deal'... how many other ways can you get a night's entertainment for that price? That's the price of a couple of movie rentals...) please register with Stephanie as quickly as you can.
Calgary 4-H Regional "Winter Bonanza"!!!
Its back... and its "baaaad"! And when I say, "baaaad"... I mean really really good! We've got lots of registrations already, and I know Myranda Stewart and Rita-Marie Leask are going to spend a big part of their Christmas holidays putting together a truly OUTSTANDINGLY AWESOMELY OUTRAGEOUS program for us. The deadline is January 31st and the forms come to me... so don't miss out!
2010 Summer Staff Job opportunities
You know, among the current 4-H Specialists, Mark Shand, Leila Hickman and Jessica Hainstock all worked as Summer Staff. And recently past staff like Vanessa (Belair) Goodman and Mark Muchka did as well. Even our Alberta 4-H Branch Head, Marguerite Stark, worked many summers A LONG TIME AGO for Alberta's 4-H program. So if you think you might like a career in 4-H, maybe you should think about applying for summer staff. Or if you think you've learned a lot from this program and want to give a little back, maybe you should consider applying for 4-H summer staff. Or if you are looking for an awesome challenge and a way to spend four months with cool people and helping to wave that flag of 4-H colours? You should apply!
Applications are due on January 15th. Here is all the information that is 'fit to print' about the 2010 summer jobs: http://www.4h.ab.ca/Left_menu_pages/Summer_Staff.html.
And please let me know if you have any questions.
Leader's Conference 2011
I know what you're thinking, "The jolly fat man in our Calgary Regional 4-H office has made a mistake. He must be wanting to talk about the 2010 program, since it takes place in less than a month." Well... NO!!! I am wanting to congratulate the leaders of the Calgary 4-H Region for making a commitment to attend 2010 Leader's Conference with 30 participants (not the largest participation... can you believe the Peace Region, our province's smallest, is coming on the bus with 35 leaders?!?!?! I guess that bus ride is epic...). But what I really want to start talking about is how GREAT GRAND SUPER COLOSSAL the 2011 Leader's Conference will be because the Calgary 4-H Region is organizing it!!! Under the exceptional leadership of Stacy Price (she is such a peach!), the team is working diligently away to make next year's event even better than the last time we hosted in 2003. I must admit... this feels like a bit of a milestone for me because, with helping our great group of volunteers on this project, I will have come full circle since working with the team led by Pat Pringle and Greg Hawkwood who facilitated Calgary's awesome conference in 2003. Anyway... I will have WAY MORE news coming out about this in the next year, so pay attention...
Deadline to register your Beef Female projects
If you are in a beef project, please remember that your club's Beef Female Project registration sheet must be returned to my office on or before December 31st, 2009. Thank you very much, in advance...
Key 4-H Leaders for the 2009-10 4-H Club Year
Please see this attachment to find out who your 'friendly, neighborhood' District Key Leader is! These folks are great sources of information and your FIRST line of contact for information or anything 4-H-related that you need:
Sponsorship of club, district and regional activity
You all know we have a great group of sponsors who actually give us money to help fund our activities and programs at the club, district, regional and even provincial level. Don't you believe that these sponsors deserve recognition for their investment in our program? Please make sure everyone in your club or council has read the letter than accompanies the cheques representing sponsorship of your group and you are completely familiar with the recognition requirements of each company. Most just want pictures that include their corporate logo (which we can provide you with in a banner form). Let's make sure we give our sponsors the recognition they deserve! And don't be afraid to send them thank you cards, either. Thank you notes and pictures, pictures, pictures makes them very, very happy!
Results from this summer's Provincial 4-H Beef Heifer Show
Calgary totally 'rocked' the nation's largest youth beef show this summer in Olds. Here are some of the highlights:
Colton Church, Balzac - Top 10 Junior Judge; Champion Junior Marketing
Garret Crawford, Prairie Partners - Reserve Champion Junior Team Grooming
Sawyer Daley, West Carstairs - Top 10 Senior Judge
Shallaine Daley, West Carstairs - Top 10 Intermediate Judge; Reserve Champion Intermediate Team Judging; Grand Champion Simmental; Top 10 Intermediate Aggregate Finalist
Lisa Fisher, Eagle - Reserve Champion Senior Team Marketing
Andie Hadway, West Didsbury - Reserve Champion Intermediate Judge; Champion Intermediate Team Judging; Reserve Champion Intermediate Showman; Reserve Champion Intermediate Aggregate Finalist
Alissa Hagel, Irricana - Grand Champion Crossbred 3-Year-Old Cow/Calf Pair
Jared Hunter, Prairie Partners - Honourable Mention Senior Team Judging
Ryan Hunter, Prairie Partners - Reserve Champion Senior Judge; Supreme Champion Project Herd; Top 10 Senior Aggregate Finalist
Travis Hunter, Prairie Partners - Top 10 Intermediate Judge; Honourable Mention Intermediate Team Grooming; Top 10 Intermediate Aggregate Finalist
Jordynn Jamieson, Bow Valley - Champion Senior Team Marketing
Haylea Jones, West Carstairs - Champion Junior Judge; Reserve Champion Junior Team Grooming; Reserve Champion Junior Team Judging; Reserve Champion Junior Showman; Reserve Grand Champion Black Angus; Grand Champion Junior Crossbred Yearling Champion; Junior Aggregate Champion
Kayla Jones, West Carstairs - Top 10 Junior Judge; Reserve Champion Junior Team Judging; Top 10 Junior Aggregate Finalist
Quinci Jones, Olds - Reserve Champion Junior Judge; Top 10 Junior Aggregate Finalist
Justin Matile, Crowfoot - Top 10 Senior "You're Hired" Contest
Patrick Milne, Prairie Partners - Champion Intermediate Team Grooming
Hal Nixdorff, Irricana - Top 10 Senior Judge; Reserve Champion Senior Team Marketing
Cameron Olson, Bow Valley - Top 10 Senior Judge; Reserve Champion Senior Team Judging; Reserve Champion Senior "You're Hired" Contest; Grand Champion "All Other Breeds" & Reserve Supreme Champion Purebred; Senior Aggregate Champion
Lance Olson, Bow Valley - Honourable Mention Intermediate Team Marketing; Reserve Grand Champion Simmental
Cassandra Rasmussen, Prairie Partners - Champion Intermediate Team Marketing
Owen Rodger, West Carstairs - Top 10 Intermediate Judge; Honourable Mention Intermediate Team Marketing; Reserve Champion Intermediate Team Judging; Top 10 Intermediate Aggregate Finalist
J.T. Ross, Crossfield-Madden - Champion Intermediate Team Marketing
Miranda Ross, Crossfield-Madden - Grand Champion Charolais
Keltey Whelan, Irricana - Top 10 Senior "You're Hired" Contest; Top 10 Senior Aggregate Finalist
Piper Whelan, Irricana - Reserve Champion Senior Team Judging; Top 10 Senior "You're Hired" Contest; Top 10 Senior Aggregate Finalist
Let's 'give it up' for our rockin' Calgary beef enthusiasts who did us so very proud last July in Olds, competing against over 100 members from across Alberta!
Results from this summer's Provincial 4-H Judging Contest
Calgary has a long and successful history at this program, and 2009 was no exception. Although we were a bit under-represented compared to recent years, our small but intrepid team rocked the competition and all won trips! Here are the results:
Champion Dairy Judge - Edith Wouters, Mountainview Dairy
Reserve Champion Swine Judge - Kelsey Cartwright, Jumping Pound Beef
Champion Sheep Judge - Edith Wouters, Mountainview Dairy
Reserve Champion Overall Placings Score - Taylor Isley, Bow Valley Beef & Multi
Honourable Mention Overall Placings Score - Kelsey Cartwright, Jumping Pound Beef
Won the Northern International Livestock Exhibition (Billings, MT last October - 2 x 4 member teams) - Kelsey Cartwright ,Taylor Isley and Stephanie Rasmussen
Won the Denver Western 4-H Round-up (Denver, CO next month - 4 member team) - Edith Wouters
So the Calgary Region went into this competition with only four competitors, all of which made the Top 15 and all of which scored trips to the United States. Congratulations to our super Calgary girls!!!
Results from this summer's Alberta 4-H Horse Classic
Calgary is always under-represented at this outstanding provincial 4-H member equine event, but our attendance increased this year and what an impact this had on the results!
The following represents the Top 3 finishes for 4-H members from the Calgary Region. Congratulations to each of these members, all of which hail from the Midnight Express 4-H Horse Club located in the Rockyview District!
HORSE BOWL
It’s the 4-H Horse project’s version of “Reach for the Top or Quiz Kids”. The Horse Bowl gives participants a chance to demonstrate their knowledge of equine related subject matter in a competitive setting.
Reserve Champion - Midnight Express 4-H Horse Club (Megan Beierle / Rheanne Beierle / Sarah Richards / Sierra Scheidt)
PRINT MARKETING
Members develop an advertisement similar to one that would appear in full colour horse industry publications. This year the advertisements focused on promoting 4-H events.
Individual - Honourable Mention - Rheanne Beierle
MARKETING
3rd Place Individual - Megan Beierle
TEAM PROBLEM
Champion Team - Rheanne Beierle
Reserve Champion Team - Mark Lane
HIPPOLOGY CONTEST
All members attending the Horse Classic program enter into the Hippology contest. What is a hippology contest? The hippology contests tests a member's equine knowledge. This is done through four competition phases: quiz/slides / knowledge stations / horse judging / team problem.
Reserve Champion Team - Sierra Scheidt
Honourable Mention Team - Sarah Richards, Taylor Scheidt
4th Place Team - Rheanne Beierle
5th Place Team - Brendan Mather, Sydney Perozak
5th Place Individual - Taylor Scheidt
4th Place Individual - Megan Beierle
3rd Place Individual - Sarah Richards
Denver Western Horse Classic Team - Sarah Richards
Its been a few years since we've sent a Calgary Region 4-H as part of the 4-member Denver Hippology Team. Congratulations Sarah and best of luck next month in the 'Mile High City'!
On-Line Registration... kudos to those of you who did it!!!
Toni Harley, our Alberta 4-H Registrar, indicates that 170 clubs actually registered on-line this year, by far the largest number to ever do so. Congratulations to everyone for joining the electronic revolution and making use of this new technology! That represents 46% or almost half of the 367 clubs currently registered in the province of Alberta. So again... way to go, 4-H leaders!!!
Merry Christmas & Happy New Year...
...from your friendly neighborhood 4-H Grinch!
I love everything about Christmas and I always have. but I have a hugely soft spot for the Grinch and the Dr. Seuss story from the 1950's and the animated Christmas special it led to from 1966 (which is even before I was born... so its REAL old! Thassa joke...) which was a fixture of my youth and I've watched it every years since, even when I lived overseas. The theme that Christmas "...doesn't come from a store. Maybe Christmas, perhaps, means a little bit more..." resonates with me maybe even more the older I get.
And so, in this awesome, special, warm, joyous time of year, I want to leave you with the words of those Who's from Whoville, "the tall and the small", as they "stand hand in hand... with Christmas bells ringing!", celebrating all that is good and right and proper in our lives and in our world. A Dr. Suess wish... from this Grinch to you:
Welcome Christmas, bring your cheer
Cheer to all Who's far and near.
Christmas day is in our grasp
So long as we have hands to clasp.
Christmas day will always be
Just as long as we have we.
Welcome Christmas, while we stand
Heart to heart and hand in hand.
Please accept my heartfelt wish for a blessed Christmas season and a peaceful and prosperous New Year. May you make all of your dreams come true.
See you next year...
Rob Smith
