4-H Alberta Magazine - Fall & Winter Edition

4-H

a t r e b l A e n i z a g a M

UTH POSITIVE YO P.5 T DEVELOPMEN NTAGE TAKING ADVA P.8 OF IT ALL ES P.20 BE CELEBRAT EAST LACOM P.22 UFA & 4-H P.23 ORTUNITIES EVENTS & OPP

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EDITION y

OCTOBER 2019 // VOLUME 15 • ISSUE 3

PM41132526. If undeliverable as addressed, please return with the forwarding address to: 4-H Section, 108-7000 113 Street, Edmonton, AB T6H 5T6

CONNECT WITH US!

We believe in tomorrow’s leaders.

That’s why ATB created the 4-H Loan Program. It provides financing to 4-H members for the purchase of marketable livestock—beef, swine, sheep, meat goats, and horses— and other approved projects.

The program helps young Albertans learn about farming and finance at the same time. Its benefits include: • Loans of up to $5,000.

• Rates as low as prime.

• No fees.

Talk to your 4-H leader to learn more about the program or download an application form at atb.com/4Hloan.

We’ll need a signature from a parent or guardian, so be sure to talk to mom or dad first.

Drop the completed form off at your local ATB branch or agency and you’ll be on your way to becoming a great Alberta farmer.

TABLE OF CONTENTS Contact Us

..............2

Club Registration

..............3

4-H Canada

..............5

It's Your History

..............6

Ambassadors

..............7

Taking Advantage of it All

..............8

Youth Service Leaders

............10

Projects & Community Service

............12

When East Meets West

............16

• Should be approximately 200 words in length.

Breeding Esteem in 4-H

............18

• Should include the author’s name and position. (E.g. Jillian Jackson, Club Reporter, Fun 4-H Club).

East Lacombe Celebrates

...........20

• Should include accompanying photos and captions.

UFA & 4-H Alberta

...........22

Events & Opportunities

...........23

ALBERTA MAGAZINE SUBMISSION GUIDELINES

Your stories and/or photos are important to us, and we want to publish them in the next issue of 4-H Alberta Magazine.

Submit your articles and/or photos to magazine@4h.ab.ca.

Tips for submitting an article and/or photos for the Feature Articles section or the Regional, District & Club Articles section of the 4-H Alberta Magazine: ARTICLES:

DIGITAL PHOTOS: • Should be sent as e-mail attachments, not as embedded images.

• Should be a large file size, 1MB or larger is preferable.

Deadline for Submissions: January 20, 2020 for inclusion in the Spring/Summer 2020 issue.

4-H MOTTO 4-H Motto: Learn to do by doing.

4-H PLEDGE I pledge My head to clearer thinking, My heart to greater loyalty, My hands to larger service, My health to better living,

4-H ALBERTA MAGAZINE Editor: Cameron Horner, 4-H Specialist – Communications, 4-H Section, Government of Alberta Design and Layout: Perpetual Notion Design Inc. – www.perpetualnotion.ca Distribution to Public: Fall/Winter, Spring/Summer Advertising Inquiries Please contact Bianca von Nagy at E: bvonnagy@4hab.com

For my club, my community and my country and my world.

FOLLOW ON… Facebook Twitter Instagram Youtube

LEARN MORE ONLINE: www.4h.ab.ca

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FALL & WINTER 2019/20

EDITORIAL I am going to date myself for just one moment but as I write this, it is 10 degrees and raining outside and it reminded me of a song from my youth titled Cruel Summer by Bananarama. It somehow seemed like a fitting description for Summer 2019 as well.

However, despite the lack of warmth and sunshine for many, we do hope you managed to enjoy some of what 4-H has to offer. Whether it was showcasing your livestock project, going places on a 4-H exchange or laughing the days away at a summer camp there was certainly a flurry of 4-H activities to be had.

As always, summer, no matter the weather, was over in what seemed like a blink of an eye. So here we are with another wonderful 4-H year upon us already. I think a lot of us can relate to that excited feeling of attending the first club meeting – a chance to reconnect with old friends and meeting new members and parents for the first time. And for those new members and parents 4-H can seem a bit overwhelming in the beginning so let us all remember to be welcoming and understanding.

In this edition of the 4-H Alberta Magazine you will find stories of adventure, travel, fantastic projects, amazing members and a whole lot more. Articles that will reinforce how integral of a role 4-H plays in the lives of today’s youth. Thank you again for all of your submissions.

So take a few moments and just revel in the non-stop happenings of this awesome organization. Because it is awesome, and it is non-stop.

Lastly, one never knows where the next adventure will take us but it has been a privilege to put together another edition of the 4-H Alberta Magazine. I hope you still enjoy reading it as much as I enjoy putting it together.

Until next time…

Cameron Horner EDITOR AND 4-H SPECIALIST, Government of Alberta

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CONTACT US

4-H

4-H Alberta has a number of people who would be happy to answer your questions and provide you with assistance. Below is a contact list for the Government of Alberta 4-H Section, the 4-H Council of Alberta, and the 4-H Foundation of Alberta.

4-H SECTION AIRDRIE

BARRHEAD

EDMONTON

GRANDE PRAIRIE

LETHBRIDGE

STONY PLAIN

STETTLER

VERMILION

4-H FOUNDATION OF ALBERTA WESTEROSE

4-H COUNCIL OF ALBERTA WESTEROSE

P: 780.422.4444 E: info@4h.ab.ca 97 East Lake Ramp NE AIRDRIE AB T4A 0C3 4-H Specialist: Calgary Region - Alexia Hoy P: 403.948.8501 E: alexia.hoy@gov.ab.ca 4-H Specialist: Programs – Katelyn Strang P: 403.948.8509 E: katelyn.strang@gov.ab.ca 6203 49 Street BARRHEAD AB T7N 1A4 4-H Specialist: Northwest Region – Stacy Murray P: 780.674.8250 E: stacy.murray@gov.ab.ca J.G. O'Donoghue Building 7000 113 St NW RM 107 EDMONTON AB T6H 5T6 Director – Diane McCann-Hiltz P: 780.422.2249 E: diane.mccann-hiltz@gov.ab.ca 4-H Specialist: Volunteer Development – Alesha Hill P: 780.644.8550 E: alesha.hill@gov.ab.ca Marketing and Learning Tools – Cindy Kremer P: 780.427.4309 E: cindy.kremer@gov.ab.ca Program Administrator – Corinne Wegner P: 780.427.4340 E: corinne.wegner@gov.ab.ca Club Supplies Distribution – Josanne Simonot P: 780.422.4444 E: info@4h.ab.ca Provincial Building 10320 99 St GRANDE PRAIRIE AB T8V 6J4 4-H Specialist: Peace Region – Nicole Hornett P: 780.538.5630 E: nicole.hornett@gov.ab.ca Agriculture Centre 100 5401 1 Ave S LETHBRIDGE AB T1J 4V6 4-H Specialist: South Region – Ginny Smith P: 403.381.5815 E: ginny.smith@gov.ab.ca Provincial Building 4709 44 Ave STONY PLAIN AB T7Z 1N4 4-H Specialist: Communications – Cameron Horner P: 780.968.3519 E: cameron.horner@gov.ab.ca Postal Bag 600 4705 49 Ave STETTLER AB T0C 2L0 4-H Specialist: East Central & West Central Regions – Yvonne Yaremcio P: 403.742.7547 E: yvonne.yaremcio@gov.ab.ca Box 24 4701 - 52 ST VERMILION AB T9X 1J9 4-H Specialist: Northeast Region – Shelly Ann Dodgson P: 780.853.8115 E: shellyann.dodgson@gov.ab.ca P: 780.422.4444 Toll Free: 1.877.682.2153 admin@4hab.com 4-H Alberta Centre RR1 Site 7 Box 10 WESTEROSE AB T0C 2V0 Chief Executive Officer – Leah Jones E: ceo@4hab.com Director, Development – Bianca von Nagy E: bvonnagy@4h.ab.com Fund Development Officer – Nicole Kaczkowski E: nkaczkowski@4hab.com Administrative Coordinator – Tricia Johnston E: admin@4hab.com Kitchen and Janitorial Supervisor – Anna Marshall E: centre@4hab.com 4-H Centre Maintenance Manager – Don Johnston E: centre@4hab.com Board Administrative Support and Grant Writer – Barb Riley E: board@4hab.com P: 780.682.2648 Toll Free: 1.877.682.2244 E: council@4hab.com RR 1 Site 7 BOX 1 WESTEROSE AB T0C 2V0 Executive Director: Susann Stone C: 780.898.4223 E: susann.stone@4hab.com Leader Screening Coordinator: Bernadette Sereda C: 780.898.3037 E: leaderscreening@4hab.com Administrative Assistant – Amy Belec P:780.682.2648 E: 4habstore@4hab.com

4-H ALBERTA MAGAZINE // 4H.AB.CA

LEARN TO DO DOING

Since 191

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IT'S CLUB REGISTRATION TIME! By: Corinne Wegner, Program Administrator, 4-H Section

Welcome to the 2019/20 club year! The following are a few tips that will help make club registration a breeze!

Each General Leader and Club Registrar will have received an email that includes their username and password which they use to register their club. The username and password for each individual is unique and nobody should use another person’s username and password. If, however, you are new to the position of General Leader and/ or Club Registrar please contact the 4-H Registrar at 4hregistrar@gov.ab.ca.

At the first gathering of your club, hand out the 4-H Alberta Member, Leader, Volunteer and Cleaver Kid Registration Information Forms (included in the email to the general leader and/or club registrar and also available online at www.4h.ab.ca/downloads/#Forms).

Have them complete the form and return it to you. All of the personal information that you need to register everyone in your club is collected on these forms.

It is really important that everyone provide a valid email account as 4-H Alberta uses email to communicate with members, leaders, volunteers, cleaver kids and clubs on a regular basis.

Have your club’s banking information handy as you’ll be required to provide the name of the club’s financial institution, where it is located, the account number and type, the bank transit number and the financial institution number. This information is required to allow for the flow of sponsor dollars to your club! Also make note of your club’s Achievement Activity dates.

In order to receive your club supplies your club must submit payment for registration.

There are three ways to pay for your club registration: with a credit card online, a cheque made out to 4-H Foundation of Alberta or a phone call to the 4-H Foundation of Alberta with your credit card information.

Once you have selected your method of payment you can go straight into ordering your club supplies. When ordering supplies, identify the number of copies needed of a resource, submit that resource to the shopping cart then continue on to the next resource needed. You can always see what you have ordered for your club under the tab Supplies located under your club information.

Visit www.4h.ab.ca/registration.html for more information and to access the Online Registration System tutorials which will walk you through Logging In, Changing Your Password and Leader Screening.

Your Regional 4-H Specialist or the 4-H Registrar is also available to help you through the online registration process. 

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FALL & WINTER 2019/20

4-H

4-H HAS AN UPDATED PLEDGE! By: 4-H Canada Staff Following 4-H Canada’s Annual General Meeting on July 11, 2019, the 4-H Pledge was updated to include ‘…and my world’ at the end.

4-H in Canada’s footprint is no longer limited by geography and our programs and the interests of our members reach well beyond our borders. It is something 4-H youth who attended the 2017 Global 4-H Network Summit know from firsthand experience, as they met with other 4-H members from around the world and felt an increased sense of belonging to a global community of more than seven million youth involved in 4-H in over 70 countries. They immediately proposed to align their Pledge in solidarity, so that their fellow members across the country could pledge a similar promise as their counterparts around the world every day.

The 4-H Pledge has been a symbol of 4-H in Canada for generations and hundreds of thousands of members have recited these words millions of times. It represents a 4-H movement that is proud of its heritage and knows the importance of its legacy, while embracing change in a determined, passionate and global-minded way.

We look forward to the day when youth will translate the words into gesture, as they spread their arms further apart to acknowledge their club, their community, their country and the world they live in.

To learn more about the updated 4-H Pledge, visit 4-h-canada.ca/pledge. 

H 4 r u o Y w Sho s i y a D s r Colou !

6 r e b m e v o N our y r a e w d n a n ratio Join the celeeben in support of 4-H. favourite gr .ca 4hcolours

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#ShowYour4HColours Wear green. Celebrate. Give back.

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2019-09-06 3:02:49 PM

4-H ALBERTA MAGAZINE // 4H.AB.CA

HOW IS 4-H IMPACTING YOU? By: 4-H Canada Staff How do you feel the 4-H program has changed you as a 4-H member? What assets do you think you have gained from the experience? What are your thoughts on the activities and experiences in your provinces?

4-H Canada wants to hear from you.

We’ve been working closely with the Search Institute – a U.S.-based organization that studies and works to strengthen youth success in schools, youth programs, families, and communities – to customize its Youth and Program Strengths Survey, so that it is specifically tailored to 4-H members across Canada.

Measuring the impact of 4-H is essential to improving our programs, ensuring relevancy for youth members, and demonstrating the effectiveness and quality of our programs.

By asking youth how they feel about the 4-H program, this study will help us further articulate the work we do as a leading Positive Youth Development (PYD) organization, and make the necessary adjustments to continue to deliver worldclass programs to 4-H youth in Canada.

The survey runs until January 31, 2020.

Custom links have been provided to each provincial 4-H association.

WHAT IS 4-H CANADA’S POSITIVE YOUTH DEVELOPMENT FORMULA? In 2014, 4-H Canada began to articulate its Positive Youth Development (PYD) vision. PYD is a globally-recognized and heavily-researched approach to working with children and youth that is strengths-based and focuses on building assets in youth.

Within this approach, there are 40 developmental assets that young people can build and develop, depending on a variety of internal and external factors. Out of all 40 assets, 4-H Canada has identified six that best fit with the programming and experiences offered across Canada. 4-H Canada’s Positive Youth Development Formula focuses on measuring these six assets that lead to the development of responsible, caring and contributing youth: 1.

Positive Values

2.

Responsibility

3.

Skill Mastery

In addition, 4-H Canada’s programming has three core “Essential Elements” in place, that help to ensure that PYD outcomes can be achieved: 1.

A safe, fun, inclusive environment

2.

Youth members are supported by caring adults

3.

Programming is based on experiential learning or the Learn to Do by Doing motto

The 4-H Section of the Government of Alberta, the 4-H Council of Alberta, and the 4-H Foundation of Alberta are working closely with 4-H Canada to create awareness of the PYD model and outcomes in Alberta.

They are also building 4-H programs in Alberta that align with and support these outcomes. 

4. Leadership Development 5.

Planning and Decision-making

6. Sense of Purpose

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FALL & WINTER 2019/20

4-H

IT’S YOUR HISTORY By: Ginny Smith, 4-H Specialist – South Region

It’s your history. For your entire time within 4-H. It is very important for you and all 4-H Alberta members to celebrate your individual involvement and participation within 4-H and in your community. For each year that you are a member, a completed 4-H Diary provides a perfect place to keep track of your participation, personal growth and skill development as you continually “Learn to do by doing”.

Your completed diaries should be kept somewhere safe, in a place you remember, as they will come in handy for: • Completing a resume or cover letter.

• Applying for scholarships and bursaries, including those available exclusively to 4-H members and alumni.

• Illustrating your diverse experiences for someone in an interview.

GET ED! V L O V IN

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A COMPLETED 4-H DIARY PROVIDES A PERFECT PLACE TO KEEP TRACK OF YOUR PARTICIPATION, PERSONAL GROWTH AND SKILL DEVELOPMENT AS YOU CONTINUALLY "LEARN TO DO BY DOING" If you haven’t completed diaries in the past, start now with the completion of one for the 2018-2019 club year. And remember, it is not too late to complete diaries for prior years of 4-H membership if you didn’t do one before. You just need to fill in the information accordingly – using information from your completed record book or club attendance information - and have a club leader from that particular year, sign it off as correctly done. It won’t take long to complete one and it will come in handy for years to come.

Not only is the 4-H diary a great information source, but 4-H members are eligible to receive the 4-H Alberta Award of Excellence, based on their points accumulated within the 4-H diaries. 90 points of participation is usually achieved in about three years, and equates to a Bronze award. From that level, members can work towards 150 points for silver, which can be in your 4th or 5th year and 220 points for gold in about your 6th or 7th year. Many 4-H members achieve the pinnacle 4-H Award of Excellence, Platinum, once 320 points are reached. Following the 2017-2018 club year, almost 1000 Awards of Excellence were presented to 4-H members across the province.

The award itself has a new look, and 4-H clubs and members are choosing different ways to display them. The bronze, silver and gold awards are coloured medallions, displayed on green ribbons. Some clubs present them this way, whereas some clubs choose to either frame individual awards, or plan for framing up to three awards together.

A medallion within a shadowbox holding a photo of the member with his project is another opportunity.

The platinum medallion is a focal point on an attractive glossy black plaque that may be displayed on a wall, or on a stand. Each platinum award is personalized for the recipient, illustrating the member’s name, club or clubs and the year in which the award was attained.

All of the awards are a nostalgic way to remember your dedication, skill development, learning and fun from 4-H membership. The diary shows what you did and how you developed along the way. A great program, a great way to remember your 4-H history. 

4-H ALBERTA MAGAZINE // 4H.AB.CA

LIFE OF A 4-H ALBERTA AMBASSADOR By: Adriana Van Tryp, South Region 4-H Alberta Ambassador

My name is Adriana Van Tryp and I am serving my second term as a South Region 4-H Alberta Ambassador.

I want to focus on three key areas; how to become an ambassador, the roles and responsibilities, and cool events I have planned, attended, emceed, and volunteered at.

If one wants to be considered for ambassadorship, they must attend the 4-H Alberta Selections program. The process then includes scoring on a quiz, how one’s fellow group members score them, group leader scoring, and the amount of diary points calculated from ones last four years of 4-H. It sounds extensive but it really is just about being yourself.

Ambassadors represent 4-H members at regional and provincial events, and are a resource to be utilized by members, leaders, clubs and districts.

Those in an Ambassador role also exemplify the leadership, communication and development skills for which the 4-H Alberta program is recognized. Consultation with the region’s 4-H specialist and other 4-H staff is also required. We also have a few conference calls as well.

THOSE IN AN AMBASSADOR ROLE...EXEMPLIFY THE LEADERSHIP, COMMUNICATION AND DEVELOPMENT SKILLS FOR WHICH THE 4-H ALBERTA PROGRAM IS RECOGNIZED.

The following is a list of events and opportunities I have partaken in: • 4-H Foundation of Alberta’s Partner Appreciation Event, • Ambassador Training, • Planning and Counselling SMC 2019, • Emceeing at local Club and District Events, • Organizing events for the South Region (We Sweat Green Run), • Ring person for the South Region Sheep and Beef Learning and Breeding Show Day and South Region Horse Show, • Writing articles for the 4-H Alberta Magazine, and • Moderating/posting on the 4-H Alberta Ambassadors Instagram page: @4halbertaambassadors. 

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FALL & WINTER 2019/20

4-H

4-H - TAKING ADVANTAGE OF IT ALL By: Amanda Hardman, 4-H Member and 2019 Premier's Award Recipient

WHO WOULD HAVE THOUGHT A TRIP TO THE YUKON WOULD START A JOURNEY OF A LIFETIME? Close to nine years ago, I visited some friends in the Yukon, a part of one of the only 4-H clubs there, to participate in a horse camp filled with other 4-H members. I had a blast while at the camp and caught the 4-H fever.

After experiencing how much fun working with horses was, I came back home and joined the Stony Riders 4-H club.

I stayed in horse for a few years, but as I became more experienced with my club, I began joining more life skills projects. In my fourth year, I left horse and focused more on other projects. After a while, I had done almost everything apart from anything on the provincial level and wanted something new to do.

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Luckily, 4-H Canada had recently rolled out their national science fair. I never was someone who was extremely interested in science, but I gave a project a try. I went to Nova Scotia for the in-person presentation round of the science fair and had so much fun I went back the next year and participated on the 4-H Canada team at the Canada-Wide Science Fair. That year, I also became a Youth Service Leader with 4-H Canada, a role I took up again this year. I have attended the annual training weekend in Ontario and organized two service projects in conjunction with the club-to-club exchanges; one in Manitoba and one in Rimbey AB. With my participation in the Youth Service Leader program, I have been invited to numerous national youth conferences, most in participation with the Canadian government, representing 4-H Canada.

To top everything off, I have now gained the honour of being named the 4-H Alberta Premier’s Award winner for 2019. In my coming years, I hope to pursue some type of career in agriculture, possibly in communications.

I consider myself very lucky for the timing of all these events in my 4-H career, as if I hadn’t entered in the science fair when I did, I might have not still been in 4-H. Without the science fair, it wouldn’t have given me the step I needed to leave my comfort zone and try new things, like attending provincial and other national events. I do not know where I would have been if I would have quit 4-H!

4-H HAS PROVIDED NOT ONLY ME, BUT ALSO MANY OTHER YOUTH WITH THE OPPORTUNITY TO GROW, TRAVEL AND ACHIEVE.

4-H 4-HALBERTA ALBERTAMAGAZINE MAGAZINE // 4H.AB.CA

The past two or three years have gone by in a whirlwind, but I truly believe they have been the best years of my life. Through the 4-H program I have been given so many opportunities that other youth, especially rural youth, do not always get to experience.

4-H has provided not only me, but also many other youth with the opportunity to grow, travel and achieve. Although I am a little biased, I wholeheartedly believe 4-H is the best youth program any youth can be in.

Through my years of organizing and running business meetings, keeping track of our club’s money, attending and participating in communications activities and everything in between, my public speaking skills, interpersonal skills and organizational skills are leaps and bounds beyond what they would have been without my years in the program. Many people often mention how not only mine but other 4-H’ers social skills are well developed, even for our ages.

Over my years of membership, I have come to realize that many other youth programs do not give youth the opportunities to fully learn to do by doing like 4-H does. They do not give us the opportunity to try something new and to learn from the experience. In 4-H, if we fail, we fail, but we can learn from what went wrong and take those newly learned skills with us for the rest of our lives. I can attest that after having my first big volunteer event to organize on my own, I found some areas of my plan after the event was over that I knew I could improve on for next time.

Without the trust of 4-H, I would not have been able to make those mistakes but be able to learn from them.

At the end of the day, it still seems so crazy that I’ve gotten to where I am today, but 4-H is what got me there. If I were to write out a list of how 4-H has impacted me, it would be a never-ending list! Thank you to everyone who have helped me achieve more than I could have ever imagined, from my family, friends, leaders, volunteers and 4-H staff.

What I have learned from all those who have helped me along the way have set me and others up to be able to achieve our goals.

What I have been able to do these past few years I would have never thought possible a while back. I even remember telling my mom about four years into my 4-H career that “I’d never go to Selections” after hearing about it, since I would have to be social the entire weekend and I’d have to leave my room for once. It just goes to show how influential the first step can truly be!

Now that I am doing more outside of 4-H, including working part-time and running my own business, even in school, I have come to realize how much the program has affected my social skills.

To all the other members who might be in the same situation as I was, my advice is give everything a try. As well, don’t go into opportunities only for the goal of winning.

Participation is so much more important than winning. If I had gone into my first year of the 4-H Canada Science Fair with my only goal being to win, I probably wouldn’t have come back the next year. Imagine how much I would have missed out on! You never know where something might lead you and you never know what you might get out of it. If you told me way back when that by going to a senior winter camp, I’d get to meet the Premier, I would have never believed you.

Take advantage of every opportunity that comes your way! 

ERE NOW WH K R E V YOU YOU NE T LEAD H G I M ING AT SOMETH NOW WH K R E V U NE .

AND YO UT OF IT O T E G HT YOU MIG

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FALL & WINTER 2019/20

4-H YOUTH SERVICE LEADERS LEAD THE WAY

This summer, 22 Youth Service Leaders travelled across Canada to lead and promote community engagement, volunteerism and service, and to help create a culture of service for Canadian youth.

Youth Service Leaders (YSLs) are ambassadors for 4-H service and community engagement. They have been selected through an application process and are trained in service learning. YSLs were matched with Club to Club Exchange groups and helped plan, coordinate and lead service-learning projects in partnership with exchange groups and the communities where projects are taking place.

In 2019 4-H Alberta has four outstanding Youth Service Leaders. Brookelyn Felske, Amanda Hardman, Carissa McGregor and Kianna McGregor all demonstrated tremendous leadership, passion and camaraderie in leading their servicelearning projects.

They were all too happy to share some of their experiences.

“It has been a great experience to work alongside these amazing 4-H clubs. They not only helped plan such great projects, but have helped me and the other members grow ourselves into the leaders of tomorrow!”

– Brooklyn Felske “This year my club dove gloves first into our community! The Namao Trail Busters 4-H club in Namao, Alberta strengthened their passion for community service this year through my Leadership/Community Service project.

A new internet challenge called #TrashTag encourages people to pick up garbage wherever they find it. We spent two days in the spring picking up garbage at the high school, community hall, and along the ditches to take part in the challenge.

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IT HAS BEEN A GREAT EXPERIENCE TO WORK ALONGSIDE THESE AMAZING 4-H CLUBS. THEY NOT ONLY HELPED PLAN SUCH GREAT PROJECTS, BUT HAVE HELPED ME AND THE OTHER MEMBERS GROW OURSELVES INTO THE LEADERS OF TOMORROW!

There were some interesting finds, including a bullhorn! We picked up lots of trash and had lots of fun while doing so! 4-H’s passion for community service has inspired many young people in our club to help in any way they can, even if it's picking up a piece of garbage on the way to school.

We also participated in the Roots for Trees program in Edmonton that is working to increase the number of forest areas in the city. We planted about 150 trees in record time! Our club had a lot of fun and has booked another planting time for this fall.

I’ll be doing the same project this year and we are looking forward to more fun times helping in our community!”

– Kianna McGregor 

4-H ALBERTA MAGAZINE // 4H.AB.CA

THE BENEFITS SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES By: Adriana Van Tryp As I write this article I am sitting in a car traveling across Argentina...

I am in Argentina as a delegate for 4-H Canada’s Going Global Exchanges Program.

Over the past three weeks I visited four different 4-H clubs and attended 4-H camp.

In each instance I iterated the benefits of 4-H and how it personally impacts me.

While in Argentina, I am expounding my experiences as a member and ambassador within 4-H. My hope is that by sharing my benefits of staying involved in 4-H it will motivate others to think twice before discontinuing with this amazing program.

Travel: In 2018 I was selected as a Northwest Territories Agriculture Development Tour delegate by attending the 4-H Alberta Selections program.

This year, 2019, I applied and went through an interview process that allowed me to travel to Argentina for three weeks with 4-H Canada’s Going Global Exchanges.

Ambassadorship: I have always had a passion for 4-H. The 4-H program has been apart of my life for more years than not. As a 4-H Alberta Ambassador I get to advocate for a program I love, meet and network with new people and attend exemplary events.

Resume/Applications: I created resumes for scholarships, travel opportunities, to gain membership on boards and in my applications to universities last year.

Organizations and individuals told me it helped me stand out from other applicants.

Institutions are aware that 4-H builds public speaking and teamwork skills, how to run a proper business meeting, networking and interaction skills.

University: In September, I start my second year of University. 4-H proved to be an exceedingly valuable skill in my first year. I gained an irreplaceable network of peers. I was unafraid to say hello to the person beside me or in joining a new club.

Presenting in class was simple because I had done it so many other times in 4-H. In one specific instance, when applying for the Alumni Relations Officer in CERES Women’s Fraternity, I used 4-H as the main reason I would excel. 

Scholarships/Money: Post secondary education is not cheap. Through 4-H I received District, Regional and Provincial Scholarships. I am grateful as it allowed University to be more cost manageable.

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FALL & WINTER 2019/20

4-H

KAYAKING CRAZE By: Chelsea Webber, Stony Riders 4-H Club

Ah kayaking, floating gently across a lake. Oh so peaceful, but ever wonder how you get to that peaceful experience? A lot of work goes into having a blast kayaking, And The Stony Riders 4-H Club is here to tell you about our snazzy kayaking program.

You should always know how to get in and out of your kayak as well as how to properly steer and propel your kayak. The Stony Riders 4-H Club rents out the Stony Plain Outdoor Pool before we go onto any lakes. Safety is our main priority in kayaking, always know the kind of kayak you’re using and to always have the supplies for boating. For example: always wear a life jacket and have a bail bucket! You don’t want to recreate the Titanic!

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The members of the Stony Riders 4-H club have been gracefully blessed to have wonderful club leaders that taught us all about cleaning our kayaks. You should always thoroughly wash the inside and outside of your kayak! Spreading of bacteria and invasive species from one lake to another can harm the ecosystem in those lakes!

Especially watch out for zebra mussels, they can destroy lakes rapidly!

You should always know the weather before you go kayaking and kayak in groups. Always have a thunder and lightning watcher.

Kayaking in a storm is very dangerous so having someone watching out for you all is the wisest choice.

Make sure to have a whistle on you at all times, you never know when it might start pouring or snowing. This is Canada after all eh?

The cherry on top of this program is the camping trip at the end of the kayaking season. Kayaking to a beautiful campground to roast marshmallows and tell scary stories.

Putting a little effort into taking care of your kayak and the safety of yourself and others is rewarding. So come on out and kayak yourself silly! 

4-H ALBERTA MAGAZINE // 4H.AB.CA

THE FRUITS OF OUR LABOUR By: Margo Redelback

LEARN AND GROW R TOGETHE In early 2019 the Brooks and Area 4-H Beef Club contacted the City of Brooks - Parks Department to inquire of potential projects which the Club could partner on in order to fulfill their commitment to community service. Planned for a number of years, but without enough funding to proceed, was an edible shrub bed to be located within a popular City park space. The purpose of the bed being to provide variety of fruit-bearing shrubs for use by individuals using the park.

Members of the Club were keen to assist with this project and were successful in obtaining funds through the UFA Funds 4-H Clubs grant program to purchase fruitbearing shrubs for the project.

On a pleasant spring evening in early June members of the Club assisted the City of Brooks in planting edible shrubs including blueberries, honeyberries, saskatoon berries, raspberries, and strawberries. A companion bed, consisting of vegetables originating from several different countries, was also planted adjacent to the edible shrub bed.

The leadership of the Brooks and Area 4-H Beef Club in working to implement this project expanded to a collaborative community partnership creating a large garden, accessible to all who use this park. ď Ž

Upon learning the Brooks and Area 4-H Club would be providing funds and volunteering their time to help plant the edible shrub bed, several other local community organizations also agreed to provide additional funds and planting material to the project.

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FALL & WINTER 2019/20

4-H IT'S HAMMER TIME By: Geoff Rohleder, Cremona 4-H Club - Metalwork Project Leader

The 4-H multi club in Cremona offers a unique opportunity where members of the metalwork project can work with tools that most people only ever get to see on TV. The metalwork project involves many different aspects of metalworking, from welding and blacksmithing to grinding and plasma cutting. Members are introduced to these skills through demonstrations and practice, and then are given the opportunity to apply those skills to their own individual projects.

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Some of the past projects included knives, coat racks, and various other creations that the members envision. Parents often comment that they wish they could have had the same opportunity when they were younger as most of the skills the members learn are extremely useful in the agricultural industry.

The project could not be a success without the generosity and support from the community members who volunteer their time to teach these skills to the next generation.

The 4-H members are extremely fortunate to have access to Mystic Forge, one of the largest blacksmith forges in Western Canada.

The kids are thrilled that they can get the chance to work with specialized tools and it is truly fascinating to watch the visions the kids have in their heads transform into actual works of art. ď Ž

4-H ALBERTA MAGAZINE // 4H.AB.CA

October 25-26, 2019

Both Days, Both

CAMPUSES! Visit our Vermilion or Lloydminster campus – or both!

October 25-26 Apply for free | Talk with faculty and students | Participate in hands-on activities | Learn how you can take the lead!

Save the application fee when you apply online or in person.

Enter to win an iPad Air. Plus, if you take a tour you could win a $1,000 tuition credit!

RSVP and learn more at lakelandcollege.ca/openhouse

AIMING HIGH DID YOU KNOW THAT ARCHERY IS THE FASTEST GROWING 4-H PROJECT IN ALBERTA? Jody Wacowich, leader of the Kneehill 4-H Multi Club and a coach with Archery Alberta wanted to create an opportunity for the members in the project to have a competition beyond their regions, so the 4-H Alberta Mailmatch will be offered in 2020.

The Mailmatch will give archery project members across the province a chance to compete against each other. It will be open to all ages and equipment types and members will shoot a minimum of two scores to a maximum of four scores to be entered in the competition.

Members can submit scores in January, February, March and April.

The winners will be announced by late April. The cost to enter will be $10 and the registration deadline is December 31st.

For more information check the Alberta 4-H website or contact Jody at 4hleaderjody@gmail.com. ď Ž

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FALL & WINTER 2019/20

4-H

WHEN EAST MEETS WEST By: Branden Langeweg, 4-H Member – North 40 Mile 4-H Club

The leaders of our club, North 40 Mile 4-H, asked us if we were interested in participating in the 4-H Canada Club to Club Exchange program. Of course, everyone was very excited. It was eventually determined that our club would be paired up with a 4-H club from Ontario – the Durham West 4-H Club. Each club would be hosted by their partners for a week in each province and every member had a ‘twin’.

Before we could go anywhere, however, we had some fundraising to do. We had to raise money for flights to Ontario and of course for some Calgary Stampede tickets - chuck wagons and a night show. We also have to raise money for all the other tourist attraction expenses that we wanted to show our Ontario group.

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MEMBER ROLE MODELS

4-H ALBERTA MAGAZINE // 4H.AB.CA

After much anticipation, it was time to welcome our guests. The first day we picked up our “twins” from the airport. Every day we had something to do like a tour of Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, Waterton National Park, the Great Canadian Barn Dance, and Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park. Some of these things I hadn’t even done so it was great opportunity to explore Alberta. My favorite was the Great Canadian Barn Dance because they taught you how to line dance and the two-step. Another favorite was the tour of Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump which was cool because we were learning about it in social class in school and I always wanted to see it in person. Part of participating in a 4-H Canada exchange is doing a community service project in each province.

We all had great time and I hope to do it again next time. I would definitely encourage other clubs to take advantage of the 4-H Canada Club to Club Exchange program!

We would like to give a big shout out all the sponsors of events and donations that made this amazing opportunity possible. 

Our club chose two projects - painting the local rodeo ground bleachers and building bat houses on farms that are in close proximity to windmills. It was then time to drop our Ontario friends off at the airport. We were excited to know we would be seeing them in a few short weeks.

Before we knew it, it was our turn to take a plane to Ontario and see some interesting things like the lift locks, CN Tower, Ripley’s Aquarium, a Toronto Blue Jays game, and Niagara Falls. I really enjoyed seeing all of these places. The Blue Jays game was my personal favorite because they are a good team and they won the game. The CN Tower was also amazing because there was a glass floor that you could look through!

Before we did our Ontario community service project there was a car rally to see where everyone was staying. Of course we ended up at Dawson Ball’s for a swim in the pool! For our community service project we built birdhouses and did some yard work for WindReach Farm. We also had a question game about 4-H, Alberta and Ontario and that was a lot of fun.

Time sure went by fast – I guess that means we had a lot of fun – and soon it was time to say goodbye to our new besties and head for home.

WE ALL HAD GREAT TIME AND I HOPE TO DO IT AGAIN NE XT TIME. I WOULD DE FINITELY EN COURAGE OTHER CLUB S TO TAKE A DVANTAGE OF THE 4-H CANADA CLU B TO CLUB EXCHANGE PROGRAM!

Earn Up To $500

For Your 4-H Alberta Club We’re giving $20,000 to 4-H clubs in our Chinook Financial communities. Apply for up to $500 for your 4-H club to support: 1. Opportunities for learning and building career skills 2. Tools, supplies and support needed to help your club with volunteer activities Learn more about eligible 4-H clubs and how to apply at ChinookFinancial.com/4H

Applications Open November 1, 2019

ChinookFinancial.com/4H

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FALL & WINTER 2019/20

4-H BREEDING ESTEEM IN 4-H By: Claudelle (Seguin) Key, 4-H Alumnus and 1989 Premier’s Award Recipient

If we follow our peer group, most commence a career in their early twenties. Based on personal experience, I believe many begin to re-evaluate their careers within 20 years.

I’m not sure if it’s because 40 years of age is the quintessential middle age, forcing us to recognize that if we sincerely want to make a change, the time is now. Or if it’s because after about 20 years, one has long mastered a skillset, and the human mind and heart just naturally crave or yearn for a change.

Given his dedication to a career three decades old, which is apparent in his continued, long-standing and tireless coverage of 4-H, there is indeed one newspaper journalist who defies the notion that one’s enthusiasm ever wanes. In the face of writing about 4-H for more than 30 years, when you read or enjoy his latest 4-H story or feature, you could easily think he’s a first-time reporter, on a first-time assignment, covering his first-ever beat.

His unceasing commitment parallels that of our 4-H leaders - those nominated for the prestigious national volunteer leader awards. As a result of his drive and devotion to 4-H, the energies and accomplishments of 4-Hers continue to be recognized, the benefits and values of the program continue to be esteemed, and the support and sponsorship from the community continue to be extended.

I experienced this, this past spring, while home at my parents perusing the Westlock News. Coming across the extensive, fullcolor feature on the local 4-H Achievement Day, I immediately recognized the labours of this local writer (his signature stamp), and commented to my Mom, “After all these years, Mr. Dunford still just does so much to highlight and promote 4-H.”

AS A RESULT OF HIS DRIVE AND DEVOTION TO 4-H, THE ENERGIES AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF 4-HERS CONTINUE TO BE RECOGNIZED, THE BENEFITS AND VALUES OF THE PROGRAM CONTINUE TO BE ESTEEMED, AND THE SUPPORT AND SPONSORSHIP FROM THE COMMUNITY CONTINUE TO BE EXTENDED.

LEFT: Les Dunford has long been a great advocate for the 4-H program.

ABOVE: 9-year old Les with one of his family’s Angus x Holstein heifers.

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4-H ALBERTA MAGAZINE // 4H.AB.CA

Our family’s path had first crossed Les Dunford’s, - senior writer for the Town & Country (a weekly supplement to the Athabasca Advocate), the Barrhead Leader, the Lac La Biche Post and the Westlock News - more than three decades earlier, when he’d first began untiringly covering and promoting 4-H. “I don't like just pulling in the winners,” admits Dunford. “A lot of the kids put in the same efforts and all the same care for their animals,” he says, noting that years earlier he had supported the idea of selling ads so a fuller Achievement Day feature could be both produced and sustained. “It’s work, but there’s a pleasure in doing it,” he says, explaining that people regularly comment and let him know they appreciate seeing the coverage. “The kids like seeing pictures,” he says. While he acknowledges that the cutlines take a bit more work because they afford information such as the animal’s name, starting weight and breed, he expends the energy to further engage his readers. “I’m grateful that the Westlock and Barrhead Achievement Days are two weeks apart.

This allows me to work on them for two weeks steady.”

His care for 4-H was evident at the onset of his newspaper career some 30 years ago.

“The 4-H Reports would come in. Sometimes they’d get used, sometimes they wouldn’t.

I didn’t think that was really fair,” says Dunford, recalling that because there wasn’t an assigned location in the local paper, many would hit the cutting room floor. Often handwritten, some would come through the mail and they would never have a photo because no one had a scanner. Since he had control over the Town & Country, he suggested the Reports be centralized and reside there. “This would encourage our younger readers to open up the paper and read it. It’s the pride.

The kids see their names in the paper and say, ‘I wrote that. That’s mine.’” In addition, 4-H news would be spread throughout four different communities.

“It’s the enjoyment I get out of it… It’s very satisfying to see the kids grow and develop skills - skills that will serve them well for the rest of their lives,” says Dunford, admitting that he enjoys seeing how these young people improve in how they look after their animals.

“It really broadens their 4-H experience….

They get to learn more about their country, cultural differences and it helps bring a better sense of unity - kids in one part of the country see that kids in another part are basically the same…. It’s interesting to see how quickly new friendships are made - lifelong friendships. I’ve seen romances blossom out of there,” he says, adding with a smile, “Not sure if it lasts.” In his mind, another great benefit is the scholarships.

“Between these and the different travel experiences, it expands their whole lives by having all these opportunities if they take advantage of them.”

PHOTO: Visiting a tomato farm in Ontario.

“The first year they’re stumbling around the ring with their animal and are having a hard time - they’re not leading, but goading it along. Sometimes the animal takes over.

But everything changes by the next year.”

This writer highlights that it is very rewarding to watch kids grow up in 4-H. “I look down at them and they’re shorter than me. Next year, by golly, they’re taller than me,” he says, explaining that he’s watched two generations of kids flourish in 4-H and adds if you include their parents (a few who are still leaders), he’s worked with three generations. “They’re kids and then they become young adults.

I see them mature and become leaders themselves,” he says.

“I see the effort they put in and the rewards they get out…The reward comes to the kids who work hard. The animal shows better.

Whether it’s the showmanship championship or grooming, it generally pays off.” He adds, “You can tell which kids put in the extra effort, which care more…. I’ve seen tears when they lead that animal in the ring for the last time. They know what’s coming.

They know they have to say goodbye….

It becomes personal.”

Dunford adds, “The kids are enjoying what they’re doing and learning at the same time.”

In his mind, the interprovincial exchanges epitomize this.

This gentleman admits he’s far from alone when witnessing the difference 4-H makes in a young person’s life. He recalls how the vice principal at the local high school always maintained she could tell which kids in her class were in 4-H, simply because of their public speaking skills and how they spoke in class. “I’ve heard where some people say they’d actually hire a kid over another because he or she has been in 4-H. They know these kids learn to do by doing…. A person figures that kid knows how to work,” says Dunford.

“I’VE GAINED A LOT OF THE LEARN TO DO BY DOING JUST BY BEING INVOLVED IN THE WAY I AM.” While he had the privilege of watching two of his grandchildren flourish in 4-H, he further lights up when he speaks about watching his almost four-year old great-granddaughter Emily ‘help’ his son, or her Grandpa, feed and water the animals at Farmfair. “I only wish I had the 4-H experience as a kid,” says this great-grandfather, whose contributions have impacted 4-Hers for over 30 years and have allowed the program to thrive beyond measure. “I know Emily’s going to be in 4-H one day.” 

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FALL & WINTER 2019/20

4-H EAST LACOMBE 4-H BEEF CLUB CELEBRATES 100 YEARS! By: Erik Sharp, Club Reporter

East Lacombe Beef is the longest continually run 4-H club in Alberta and it celebrated 100 years at the Central Alberta Agriculture Grounds in Lacombe, Alberta on June 15, 2019.

The club celebrated with a BBQ, speeches, cake-cutting ceremony followed by the club’s year-end awards. Four of the current members received their Platinum Awards of Excellence. Over 200 people attended the celebration including alumni members and leaders.

The celebration ended with a family dance.

HISTORY OF EAST LACOMBE 4-H BEEF CLUB: The club was founded by Joe Biglands in 1919 and ran under the name “Lacombe Boys Breeding Club” which was the first youth organization recorded for Lacombe. Some of the original members included John Long, Hugh Sharp, Josh Biglands, Bert Sharp and George Walters.

Hugh Sharp’s great grandchildren are currently the 4th generation to be active in the club and are very proud of the history that the Sharp family has with the club.

The Lacombe Boys Breeding Club was concerned with raising good breeding heifers and met once a month. In 1929, the name was changed to the Lacombe Junior Calf Club which included both boys and girls, with Joe Biglands continuing as Leader until 1949.

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Steers were now a big part of the club, and judging, show fitting and animal care were discussed at their monthly meetings. A finished steer would weigh 700-750 lbs. In 1949 the grand champion steer sold for $0.60 per pound with the reserve selling for $0.40 per pound.

In 1952, boys and girls clubs were changed to 4-H and came under supervision of the Department of Agriculture. The Lacombe Calf Club had grown to such a size that it was split into two clubs. East Lacombe A and East Lacombe B or Best East Lacombe.

Activities have always been a part of East Lacombe 4-H Beef Club.

The club’s curling bonspiel dates back to the 1950’s and is still an annual event for the club with 4-H members from all over central Alberta participating.

The club has taken part in a number of community service activities from Santa’s Anonymous, food banks and raising charity steers.

PHOTO: 2019 East Lacombe 4-H Beef Club Members pictured with the charity steer.

4-H ALBERTA MAGAZINE // 4H.AB.CA

THE FOUNDING LEADER AND MEMBERS OF EAST LACOMBE BEEF HAD THE DESIRE TO LEARN, AND TO IMPROVE WHICH HAS BEEN PASSED DOWN THROUGH THE YEARS. THE CLUB IS CONTINUING TO THRIVE THANKS TO DEDICATED 4-H FAMILIES AND THE LOCAL COMMUNITY.

A name change was done in 2002 to East Lacombe Multi 4-H Club which included a horse project. The horse project ran for two years. The club was then reverted back to the East Lacombe 4-H Beef Club.

The club has participated in two exchanges.

In 2005 the club had an exchange with a 4-H Club from Leader, Sk. The second exchange was in the summer of 2018 with the Anola Northern Lights Club / Lorette Busy Bees Club from Oakbank/St. Adolphe, MB.

Our members participate in public speaking and presentations competitions not only within the club but also at district, regional and provincial levels.

East Lacombe is supported by area businesses and community members in the form of sponsorships and purchasing steers.

The sale average is around $3.00 per pound.

The founding leader and members of East Lacombe Beef had the desire to learn, and to improve which has been passed down through the years. The club is continuing to thrive thanks to dedicated 4-H families and the local community. 

Over recent years two club members, Julie Sharp and Riley Sharp have competed and have been successful in winning trips at the Provincial Judging Competition in Vermillion.

Julie travelled to Denver, Colorado to the Western National 4-H Roundup Judging Competition where her team placed 4th overall in beef judging. Riley travelled to Billings, Montana for the Northern International Livestock Expo Judging Competition.

East Lacombe 4-H members have had a strong presence at the 4-H Regional Heifer Show and the 4-H Provincial Heifer Show winning numerous skill competitions and conformation classes and championships.

Our club members have participated in “Selections” for many years and they have been awarded the Northern Alberta and Northwest Territories Agriculture Development Tour and 4-H Canada Citizenship Congress in Ottawa, ON. In 2016, Christine Suominen, a past East Lacombe 4-H Member won the prestigious 4-H Alberta Premiers Award.

To showcase the success of our female projects, one of our members Emilee Oro had the idea to add a Progeny class (Bred & Owned by 4-H member) at our achievement day. This class has consistently grown in numbers since its inception.

ABOVE: This 1949 scene at the Central Alberta Pavilion was typical of the 4-H shows for many years. Joe Johnson, farm manager at the University of Alberta, was judge, assisted by Howard Fulcher. Joe Biglands, centre with cane, is speaking with Wilf Edgar, a prominent Hereford breeder. Roy Ballhorn is standing beside Edgar.

Lacombe, the First Century photo

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FALL & WINTER 2019/20

4-H

UFA AND 4-H ALBERTA BUILDING FUTURE LEADERS TOGETHER 4-H Alberta and United Farmers of Alberta Ltd. (UFA) have a long history together spanning over 80 years and this year alone, UFA is proud to have funded over 200 clubs in the province.

“4-H members learn leadership skills that set them up for success for the remainder of their lives,” says Kimberly MacDonald, UFA’s Community Investment Manager. “We believe strongly in providing opportunities for youth development and our partnership with 4-H allows us to support future generations of agricultural leaders.”

Leaders like Emmett Sawyer.

Sawyer first caught the public’s attention when he was 13-years-old and published a 4-H speech on YouTube. The speech was about building consumer trust by being open and transparent about how farmers grow and raise the food we buy. At just 16-years-old, he was named the Canadian Seed Trade Association Future Influencer at the 2016 Grow Canada Conference.

Sawyer’s passion for agriculture began at a young age, having grown up on the family farm west of Acme. His involvement in 4-H began ten years ago as a member of the Swalwell 4-H Club.

Up until April when his term ended, Sawyer was the 4-H Alberta Ambassador for the Calgary Region, acting as a resource for clubs.

He is thankful for the 4-H program because he says there are many benefits. “Other than team building and learning new communication skills, there are also educational scholarships to be won as well, so it’s a program with endless opportunities and I wouldn’t trade my experience with 4-H for the world,” said Sawyer.

4-H MEMBERS LEARN LEADERSHIP SKILLS THAT SET THEM UP FOR SUCCESS FOR THE REMAINDER OF THEIR LIVES Sawyer was also recently awarded the 4-H Canada L.E.A.D. Scholarship Award. The scholarship consists of $20,000, awarded $5,000 per University year for up to four years, and the opportunity to receive guidance from a mentor in the recipient’s field through their education journey.

Sawyer is currently pursuing his Bachelor of Arts in Agriculture Enterprise Management at the University of Lethbridge. “I’m very passionate about food security and making sure we produce the safest and most environmentally-friendly food that we possibly can,” he said. He is also very interested in the policy behind agriculture, “how the government makes decisions to make sure that agriculture is on track and protecting the environment while moving the industry forward in a safe way, whether with chemicals used or seed varieties.”

Sawyer is also very passionate about UFA. In fact, not only is he a member but he’s also working for the summer at the Strathmore UFA Farm & Ranch Supply store. He says his future goals include working for an agriculture co-operative or a corporate agriculture company, and possibly farming. For now, he appreciates the support that UFA has given him, not only through the sponsorship of 4-H Alberta but also for being given the opportunity to broaden his skill set by working in an agricultural co-operative setting. “I have always appreciated the support from UFA, not only for sponsoring my 4-H club and projects and now for employing me, but also for being trusted advisors and suppliers at our family farm. It’s because of organizations like UFA that I’m able to pursue my dreams.”

In his short 19 years, Sawyer has become a powerful representative for 4-H, for UFA and for all young leaders in agriculture. Whether it’s supporting a local club’s riding clinic or helping to fund a new pair of shearing scissors, UFA is proud to sponsor 4-H Alberta and to give back to local communities where our members live and work. 

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4-H ALBERTA MAGAZINE // 4H.AB.CA

4-H Alberta

l a i c n i v o r P & Regional

y

•

y

• GUIDE

2019-2020 4-H CLUB YEAR

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4-H CAMP

WE LIKE IT HERE, MAYBE YOU WILL TOO.

Registration Opens DECEMBER 1, 2019 4-H ALBERTA camps provide 4-Hʼers

Illustrative Camps Ad with the opportunity to spend time with old

friends and develop new lifelong friendships, live and learn in a natural and safe setting, enjoy the outdoors, and participate in an endless list of activities.

Junior Camps AGES 9-11

Combined Camps AGES 10-13

intermediate Camps AGES 12-14

senior Camps

AGES 15-20

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CAMPS PROGRAMS •

PROVINCIAL CAMPS AND PROGRAMS

SELECTIONS Event Every 4-H members has the potential to do great things and through the 4-H program, we help them try to reach that potential. The Selections program is one of those ways in which we provide members with the keys to ensure their own success and the success of those around them. Since 1957, Selections has been one of the premier learning and networking opportunities for Alberta 4-H members with various informative sessions and speakers. In 2020, the program will be focused on the future – moving out, budgeting, careers and much more! At the end of the short program, the newest Alberta Ambassadors and the Premier’s Award winner will be selected and a number of travel opportunities will be awarded.

The trip winners, Alberta ambassadors and Premier’s Award recipient all play a very large role in the success of the 4-H program through engaging with other members, getting involved in their communities and demonstrating the benefits of 4-H. DATES

May 1 - 4 LOCATION

Olds College, Olds AB REGISTRATION DEADLINE

March 1 For more information: alesha.hill@gov.ab.ca

SELECTIONS LEADERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

SELECTIONS TRAVEL OPPORTUNITIES

BE NAMED THE 2020 PREMIER’S AWARD RECIPIENT

4-H CANADA CITIZENSHIP CONGRESS

Since the first Premier’s Award was presented in 1964, one senior 4-H member is honoured with this prestigious recognition each year. This is the highest honour that an Alberta 4-H member can receive, recognizing exceptional communication and leadership skills, as well as a strong dedication to their own personal growth and the growth of the 4-H program. The Premier’s Award recipient represents 4-H on a provincial level, attending and speaking at various events, engaging with 4-H'ers and even meeting with the Premier of Alberta.

BECOME AN AMBASSADOR Each year at the Selections program, 14 new members join the ranks of the 4-H Alberta Ambassadors. Two senior members from each region are selected for a two year term where they will promote 4-H Alberta through programs, speaking at events and public engagement. To be selected as an Ambassador, members are judged on their diary points, their engagement in a group setting and their knowledge of agriculture, current events and the 4-H program itself.

Having experienced first-hand much of what 4-H Alberta has to offer, these senior members or recent alumni are the perfect spokespeople for 4-H Alberta.

The 49th annual 4-H Canada Citizenship Congress will once again prove a challenging but inspiring opportunity for delegates across the country. Participants will get to experience government procedure up close and personal while simultaneously developing communication skills and expanding their horizons. Throughout the week, members will engage in workshops and sessions that will culminate in the annual debate. Attendees will learn the skills necessary to construct insightful arguments, be persuasive and effectively convey their thoughts. Throughout the trip, members will also have the opportunity to explore Ottawa, Parliament Hill and learn more about Canada.

DATES

April or May 2021 *This trip takes place the following year

LOCATION

Ottawa ON 4-H CALIFORNIA LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE Be sure to pack your sandals, a bathing suit and lots of sunscreen for the 2020 4-H California State Leadership Conference.

Soak in the sun, meet new people and experience 4-H at the University of California at Davis. At the four day conference you will participate in many activities focused on leadership development, civic engagement and so much more.

DATES

July 2020 LOCATION

California

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EVENTS & OPPORTUNITIES

4-H ALBERTA MAGAZINE // 4H.AB.CA

FALL & WINTER 2019/20

4-H CANADA MEMBERS FORUM Developed in 1931, this hallmark program rotates annually between host locations.

With a different leadership development theme each year, delegates also visit a local agricultural event, such as the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair in Toronto, or Regina’s Canadian Western Agribition.

Through experiential learning, workshops and interactive site tours, delegates develop a deeper awareness, knowledge and understanding of the program theme.

They return home equipped to apply new knowledge and skills to club projects in their home communities.

DATES

November or December 2020 LOCATION

Toronto ON ALBERTA/NORTHWEST TERRITORIES AGRICULTURE DEVELOPMENT TOUR Join 4-H’ers on the road trip of a lifetime through northern Alberta and the NWT. If you like the outdoors and agriculture, this is the trip for you as your group will have the chance to see beautiful landscapes, stop at various agriculture businesses and camp along the way. By the end of the trip you will also have learned a lot about yourself and made incredible friendships with your travel companions.

DATES

July or August 2020

4-H

COUNSELLOR In Training

LEADER In Training

The Counsellor In Training (CIT) program gives our 4-H senior members, ages 15 to 20, a chance to develop the knowledge and skills needed to become a summer camp counsellor.

The Leader in Training (LIT) program is an exciting four-day program for senior members who are ready to take the next step in regards to leadership, responsibility, and learning about programming.

The CIT program consists of the program participants learning about the upcoming programming for the summer, including an overview of the theme and the activities and challenges that will be held at the various camps. Counsellors learn about our skill sessions and acquire the knowledge on how to instruct and lead these sessions.

LIT provides 4-H members the skills necessary to program plan, to implement programming effectively, and to learn more in-depth information on behavior management, risk management, counselling and teaching techniques, communication, and leadership.

Successful participants of the CIT program will be placed at one or more camping programs, regionally and/or provincially, and will be responsible for teaching, supervising, and caring for camp participants.

WHO CAN ATTEND

Senior Members DATES

July 5 - 9 LOCATION

Alberta 4-H Centre, Battle Lake REGISTRATION DEADLINE

May 1 EARLY BIRD DEADLINE

April 15 For more information: 4h.ab.ca

Graduates of the LIT program will then work directly with the Camp Directors during a camp program where they will have the opportunity to plan a portion of the program, to implement the programming and to act as an assistant to the Camp Directors by getting hands-on experience in overseeing the day-to-day activities of the camp.

Applicants must have taken our Counsellor In Training (CIT) program, along with a minimum of one week of counselling at a summer or winter camp program.

WHO CAN ATTEND

Senior Members who have taken CIT DATES

July 6 - 9 LOCATION

Alberta 4-H Centre, Battle Lake

LOCATION

REGISTRATION DEADLINE

Alberta and NWT

May 1 (application process) For more information: 4h.ab.ca

SELECTIONS IS AN EVENT I LOOK FORWARD TO EVERY YEAR! IT BREAKS MY HEART I CAN'T ATTEND AGAIN! EVERY YEAR I GET TO MEET NEW, AMAZING FRIENDS, PARTICIPATE IN FUN ACTIVITIES AND RENEW MY LOVE FOR 4-H. IF THERE'S ONE EVENT YOU SENIOR MEMBERS SHOULD ATTEND THIS YEAR, IT'S SELECTIONS!

26

intermediate Camp We all need a little TLC in our lives right??

Well at Intermediate Camp we’re all about Teamwork, Leadership, and Communication and we’re going to make this camp the highlight of your summer!!!! Whether tackling the low ropes course or the many games and activities trust, communication and teamwork are all integral parts of learning at this camp. Escape your comfort zone and take on an active leadership role with your new camp besties.

Campers will have the opportunity to explore nature and the outdoors, the arts, sports, and much, much more.

WHO CAN ATTEND

Intermediate Members DATES

July 26 - 30 or August 16 - 20 LOCATION

Alberta 4-H Centre, Battle Lake REGISTRATION DEADLINE

May 1 EARLY BIRD DEADLINE

April 15 For more information: 4h.ab.ca

COMBINED Camp Are you between the ages of 10 and 13?

Looking to take your camping experience to the next level? If so, you should totally come join our fabulous crew at Combined Camp!

With awesome games and activities planned (did someone say extreme slip-n-slide?) you'll leave this camp feeling confident in your new found skills and more than capable of standing strongly on your own two feet.

We offer the opportunity for our campers to explore nature and the outdoors, the arts, sports, and much more.

With two camp dates available, parents this is a great opportunity to send your kids to the same camp!

WHO CAN ATTEND

JUNIOR Camp This camp is a great opportunity to ease into our provincial camps and programs!

Our dedicated and well-trained staff and counsellors ensure you feel safe and included.

You will laugh any uneasiness away through days filled with fun, sun and evenings around the campfire. Before you know it, camp will be over and you'll be counting down the days until you can come back.

Junior Camp is perfect for you first-time campers or those of you that just can’t get enough water sports, low ropes, GAGA ball or meeting new friends. And parents don’t be surprised if the only tears shed are when your kids see your car coming to pick them up.

July 12 - 16 or August 9 - 13

Not sure about being away from home for five days? Come check out our new threeday camp. We promise the same great fun!

LOCATION

WHO CAN ATTEND

Junior and Intermediate Members DATES

Alberta 4-H Centre, Battle Lake REGISTRATION DEADLINE

May 1 EARLY BIRD DEADLINE

April 15 For more information: 4h.ab.ca

Junior Members DATES

July 19 - 23 or August 6 - 8 (3 days) LOCATION

Alberta 4-H Centre, Battle Lake REGISTRATION DEADLINE

May 1 For more information: 4h.ab.ca

27

EVENTS & OPPORTUNITIES

4-H ALBERTA MAGAZINE // 4H.AB.CA

Funds available to 4-H’ers who greenUp! Do you have a project designed to save energy or help the environment? Our annual community grants can help you plant trees, naturalize an area or create energy efficiency.

Our greenUp grant program is designed to help create or enhance an environmental program for students in Elementary/Junior High schools in Alberta. We have 25 $1,000 grants for schools within our service area to implement an environmental education program. For more information, visit: service.fortisalberta.com/energyefficiency.

As an Alberta based electricity distribution provider, our community investment program is based on the guiding principle that our organization’s success depends on the wellbeing of the 240 communities in which we operate, and where our employees live and work.

Follow us on: facebook.com/fortisab

youtube.com/fortisab

@fortisalberta

instagram.com/fortisalberta

Offering programs in Agriculture, Agriculture Technology (2 NEW Programs!), Animal Science, Brewmaster, Business, Equine, Fashion, Horticulture, Land & Environment, Meat Processing, Tourism and Trades & Apprenticeships.

Come Visit Us!

Open House (Olds) - October 18, 2019 Open House (Calgary) - October 19, 2019 Experience More: oldscollege.ca/visit

•

Scholarships, Awards

4-H ALBERTA CAREERS ON SCHOLARSHIPS THE GROW Past and present 4-H members registered for a minimum of three years, are eligible to apply for 4-H Alberta scholarships.

Successful applicants must provide proof of attendance from a post-secondary institute as a full-time student.

Applications open March 1, 2020 and close May 15, 2020.

For more scholarship opportunities and application information, visit www.4h.ab.ca/About/scholarships.html.

TRAVEL THE WORLD Going Global Exchanges is your chance to experience how 4-H works in a different country and explore sustainable agriculture and food security practices from a global perspective. Exchanges are available to 4-H members or alumni aged 18 to 25.

APPLICATION DEADLINE

November 30 Visit 4-h-canada.ca/goingglobal to apply.

Careers on the Grow is a career exploration program that encourages 4-H Canada members to explore career paths, apply their skills and gain hands-on work experience.

Made possible through the generous support of the RBC Foundation, Saputo and McDonald’s, Careers on the Grow provides 4-H members with internship placements, networking and mentorship opportunities and career exploration resources.

Internships are available to 4-H members or alumni ages 18 to 25.

2020 placements to be confirmed.

For more information visit: 4-h-canada.ca/growingcareers

SPARK THE SCIENTIST IN YOU! Do you have an awesome idea to make a difference in the world around you? Why not turn it into a science fair project and present it at the 4-H Canada Science Fair in Saskatoon in March 2020? Winners will receive the ultimate prize of competing at the Canada-Wide Science Fair in May 2020.

Registration is open to 4-H’ers in grade 7 to 12 or CÉGEP programs.

•

BECOME A YOUTH SERVICE LEADER Hands to Larger Service is a national initiative that empowers youth like you to improve the world around you through service. Why not be a Youth Service Leader (YSL) next summer and get in on the action? As a YSL, you can work across Canada to lead and promote community engagement, volunteerism and service while helping create a culture of service for youth.

REGISTRATION DEADLINE

December 29 Visit 4-h-canada.ca/handstolargerservice to apply.

LAND YOUR DREAM JOB! 4-H Canada’s free Career Development Webinars will equip you with the tools you need to stand-out in the job application process and prepare you to enter the workforce!

Learn more and register to attend an upcoming webinar today at: 4-h-canada.ca/growingcareers/webinars

REGISTRATION DEADLINE

January 16 Visit 4-h-canada.ca/sciencefair to apply.

29

EVENTS & OPPORTUNITIES

4-H ALBERTA MAGAZINE // 4H.AB.CA

FALL & WINTER 2019/20

4-H

• LEADERS

LEADERS • HANDS-ON SCIENCE TRAINING

LOCATION

4-H Alberta is offering 4-H Canada’s Hands-on Science Training Program!

Hands-on Science is an interactive leader development workshop that helps leaders to incorporate science and technology within their existing 4-H projects. This two-day training will give leaders the tools to promote science opportunities to youth, identify ways to highlight scientific ideas in 4-H clubs and programs and to develop a stronger foundation of the basics of scientific inquiry and process.

Grande Prairie AB

DATES

UNCOVER THE LEADER IN YOU…ACHIEVING YOUR 4-H LEADERSHIP POTENTIAL Leaders, parents and senior members are invited to attend this day-long event that will feature a keynote speaker and a number of different 4-H sessions.

4-H CANADA NATIONAL LEADERSHIP SUMMIT The 4-H Canada Leadership Summit is the premier 4-H professional development, knowledge sharing and networking opportunity for 4-H volunteer leaders. In February 2020, meet 4-H leaders, provincial directors and staff from across the country when we meet in Ottawa Ontario!

*There will be a members stream (Frosty Fest) for juniors, intermediates and cleaver kids.

Dec 7 - 8

DATE

November 15

The conference is an opportunity to explore a variety of programs and topics of interest through all four of 4-H Canada’s Leadership Development Pillars. Participants can expect to learn more about 4-H in other provinces, share best practices, learn more about 4-H Canada programs, and have lots of fun. For more information visit 4-h-canada.ca.

LOCATION

DATES

DATE

November 16

November 23 LOCATION

Drumheller, AB

REGISTRATION DEADLINE

Edmonton Area For more information: alesha.hill@gov.ab.ac

REGISTRATION DEADLINE

November 1 For more information: alesha.hill@gov.ab.ac 4-H CANADA HEALTHY LIVING INITIATIVE Through the new Healthy Living Initiative, 4-H Canada has developed a series of resources and webinars designed to increase the knowledge and capacity of its volunteer leaders when working with youth members. These resources will train leaders to recognize youth in distress and provide the access to support they need. The first of three focuses – Mental Health – is now available for download at 4-h-canada.ca/ healthyliving. Check back in December for more resources on physical and nutritional health.

30

BECOME A KEY LEADER If you are a 4-H leader who is passionate and knowledgeable about the 4-H program, and want to lend a helping hand, you may want to consider becoming a Key Leader.

Each Key Leader acts as the ‘go-to person’ within a district to offer support, help out and answer questions that others may have. They are dedicated and experienced leaders themselves who are well versed in club, committee and council operations. Key Leaders strive for the success of the 4-H program and those within it.

For more information or if you are interested in pursuing this opportunity, contact your district council or Regional 4-H specialist.

February 8 - 11 LOCATION

Ottawa, ON REGISTRATION DEADLINE

October 15 Visit 4h.ab.ca/About/documents/ LeaderDevelopmentApplicationForm.pdf to apply.

For more information: alesha.hill@gov.ab.ca

Growing Leader s OF TOMORROW Cervus Equipment is committed to growing future leaders by proudly supporting 4-H Alberta programs in our communities.

cervusequipment.com

CHAPERONE OPPORTUNITIES

REGISTRATION DEADLINE

DATES

June 1

May 5 - 10

Visit 4h.ab.ca/About/LeaderPrograms.html to apply.

LOCATION

AGRICULTURE DEVELOPMENT TOUR

For more information: alesha.hill@gov.ab.ca

REGISTRATION DEADLINE

Pack your bags and head off on the road trip of a life time with 20-22 senior 4-H members through northern Alberta and the Northwest Territories. You will travel by bus and stop at various landmarks and agriculture centres, all while camping each night amidst the beautiful northern scenery. Though you will depart as strangers, you will return as a family. This year’s route and ultimate destination have yet to be determined but more information will be made available closer to the Selections program.

DATES

July/August 2020

4-H CANADA CITIZENSHIP CONGRESS Chaperone 4-H Alberta’s seven participants at the 4-H Canada Citizenship Congress.

While at the program, participants will deepen their understanding of governance and public policy, nurture your communication skills, and expand their horizons as they discover some of what it means to be Canadian in the nation’s capital.

Workshops will culminate with the annual debate where 4-H members will construct insightful arguments, and practice skills of persuasion and public speaking.

Ottawa ON December 1 Visit 4h.ab.ca/About/LeaderPrograms.html to apply.

For more information: alesha.hill@gov.ab.ca

LOCATION

NWT & Alberta

31

EVENTS & OPPORTUNITIES

4-H ALBERTA MAGAZINE // 4H.AB.CA

FALL & WINTER 2019/20

4-H

• 9TH ANNUAL 4-H ALBERTA PARTNER APPRECIATION EVENING Our partners, sponsors, and donors play an integral role in 4-H and this is our chance to say thank you. Once again, the 4-H Foundation of Alberta would like to invite clubs, leaders, parents and members to participate in the 9th Annual Partner Appreciation Evening. Participants will be treated to a delicious meal where they will have the chance to mingle with sponsors, share their 4-H experience and demonstrate the value and benefits of the program.

The 4-H Foundation of Alberta is looking for volunteers to help make this event a grand success.

DATES

October 22 LOCATION

Airdrie AB If you or your club is interested in participating please contact: nkaczkowski@4HAB.com CLUB TO CLUB EXCHANGES Explore Canada through our Club to Club Exchanges! Groups of eight to ten youth and two chaperones participate in a reciprocal exchange with a 4-H group from another part of the country. This gives each group a chance to explore one of the biggest, most vibrant and most diverse nations in the world. The Club to Club Exchange challenges participating groups to become community ambassadors as they host their twins and put their hometowns on display.

For more information: 4-h-canada.ca/clubtoclub

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CLUBS •

FCC 4-H CLUB FUND

STEEPED IN SOIL

With the continued support of Farm Credit Canada (FCC), we’re providing another year of the FCC 4-H Club Fund. These funds are available to all 4-H clubs, districts and regions across Canada. Together with FCC, our goal is to help young Canadian’s “Learn To Do By Doing” in a safe, inclusive and fun environment.

Through this initiative, supported by Syngenta Canada, your 4-H club will learn the nitty-gritty about soil, participate in a global science experiment, and choose from a variety of hands-on activities to understand the importance of soil health!

$100,000 is available in grants of up to $500 per club, district or region across Canada.

APPLICATION DEADLINE

October 31 For more information: 4-h-canada.ca/clubfunds SHOW YOUR 4-H COLOURS

By participating in this program, members will: • Learn about and identify soils • Understand the importance of healthy soils • Conduct in-the-field tests • Participate in a nation-wide citizen science experiment.

REGISTRATION OPENS

November is 4-H month and 4-H’ers across Canada love to show their 4-H pride all month long, but know that the first Wednesday of the month is our chance to make a big splash—of green that is!

Show Your 4-H Colours Day is National 4-H Day in Canada and is your chance to wear green, celebrate 4-H and share what 4-H means to you as a member, volunteer leader, alumni or supporter, all while having tons of fun. Don your 4-H colours, get out into your communities, post to social media, do acts of kindness, and share your enthusiasm for everything 4-H! Wear green, take selfies and share your 4-H pride with the world using the hashtag #ShowYour4HColours

January 1 - February 29 Apply at 4-h-canada.ca/steepedinsoil PROUD TO BEE A 4-H’ER This annual initiative supported by Syngenta Canada educates and engages 4-H youth to broaden their understanding around the importance of pollinators and the multiple factors that impact bee health. 4-H clubs receive pollinator-friendly seed packets that they can plant at home or in community gardens, hand out in the community or sell as a fundraiser. They also receive pollinator info cards they can share with their friends and community.

REGISTRATION OPENS

DATES

January 1

November 6

For more information: 4-h-canada.ca/proudtobee

Visit www.showyour4hcolours.ca to learn how you can get involved.

FIND YOUR WINGS Find Your 4-H Wings is an exciting campaign supported by TransCanada that encourages 4-H’ers to get active outdoors and learn about their winged friends!

Members will again have the opportunity for hands-on activities where they can: •

Get actively engaged in the outdoors, make healthy choices, and contribute to their community.

•

Be active stewards of the environment and participate in hands-on activities.

•

Participate in activities that explore issues related to biodiversity, endangered species and the importance of sustaining habitats.

•

As Alberta’s largest agricultural show, Farmfair International has been helping grow future leaders for over 45 years.

Share their knowledge with others and build community awareness about protecting our winged friends.

• Junior Futurity Showcase – Nov. 9 • 4-H Day – Nov. 9

REGISTRATION CLOSES

December 16 For more information 4-h-canada.ca/findyour4hwings

farmfairinternational.com

DISCOVER SCIENCE

#FARMFAIR | Edmonton EXPO Centre

Discover Science, supported by Bayer Canada and NSERC, is 4-H Canada’s newest initiative to help 4-H’ers explore STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) in a fun and hands-on way! Through this initiative, club members of all ages will work together to complete a science experiment, themed around a current topic in STEM. Kits will be sent out to participating clubs and will contain all of the necessary pieces to complete the experiment. The goal is for members to cultivate their curiosity and spark their passion for science through a fun, accessible, and hands-on activity!

For more information: 4-h-canada.ca/discoverscience

GE ENCOURA Y L E T I N I DEF NTAGE I WOULD KE ADVA A T O T S LUB CLUB OTHER C CLUB TO A D A N A -H C OF THE 4 AM! E PROGR G N A H C Club X E 40 Mile 4-H orth

ngeweg — N

- Branden La

TRAV E WITH L US

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EVENTS & OPPORTUNITIES

4-H ALBERTA MAGAZINE // 4H.AB.CA

FALL & WINTER 2019/20

•

SHOWS

4-H

COMPETITIONS

4-H ALBERTA BEEF HEIFER SHOW

4-H ALBERTA SHEEP SHOW

For 43 years the 4-H Alberta Beef Heifer Show has provided 4-H members the opportunity to showcase their beef female project, hone their skills and gain further knowledge of trends in the beef industry, all within an experiential environment designed for their learning and development. Through participation in the Beef Heifer Show, you will develop your passion for the beef industry, share your vision with other youth and adults, and have tons of fun.

The 4-H Alberta Sheep show is celebrating its 10th year in 2020!!!

Furthermore, you will sharpen your skills in showmanship, judging, grooming and beef knowledge – plus show off your prized project animal in a series of conformation classes.

Don’t have a female project but still want to see what all the hype is about? No problem!

Come and experience firsthand by helping out fellow 4-H’ers and take part in all the non-animal opportunities.

WHO CAN ATTEND

All Members DATES

July 6 - 9 LOCATION

Olds Regional Exhibition, Olds AB REGISTRATION

April 1 – June 1

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•

COMPONENTS OF THE SHEEP SHOW •

Informative Demonstrations & Sessions

•

Trimming

This always-popular show is a reflection of the thriving Alberta sheep industry and provides a tremendous educational opportunity at the provincial level for 4-H members to broaden their knowledge of showing, trimming, and judging sheep, as well as the general sheep industry.

•

Showmanship

•

Sheep Judging

•

Show Team Judging

•

Marketing

•

Costume Classes

In addition, the 4-H Alberta Sheep Show is great place to learn best practices and connect with like-minded youth. In other words, you will be meeting a lot of great people!

•

Conformation Classes

So if you want to: sharpen your skill base in an industry focused event; get involved at the next level and network; and expand your knowledge base beyond the farm gate then this is an opportunity you do not want to miss.

Don’t have a breeding animal? No problem!

Any member registered in the sheep project, with any level of experience, can attend the 4-H Alberta Sheep Show without an animal.

WHO CAN ATTEND

All Sheep Members DATES

July 7 - 10 LOCATION

Olds Regional Exhibition, Olds AB REGISTRATION

April 1 – June 1

4-H ALBERTA STEER CARCASS COMPETITION Want to take part in one of the fastest growing projects in Alberta? Read on!

“Making the grade” is not about how the steer looks in the show ring, it's about marbling, yield, ribeye size, fat thickness and carcass size as the main criteria. Each of these criteria are determined by a single grader that travels to each facility for competition consistency. Once harvested, all steers are graded by Dr. Oscar LopezCampos - a Livestock Carcass Merit and Market Competitiveness Research Scientist.

We all like a good cut of beef, right? Well, the goal of this competition is to raise quality beef for a restaurant. This is unique, but also challenges and encourages you to consider many different aspects when selecting an animal for a specific goal.

To take things even a step further you will submit DNA samples that provides a Carcass Trait Profile on your animal, to better understand the traits your carcass project exhibits. You are then able to compare the DNA results to the grading results. Carcass traits analyzed included marbling, average daily gain, fat thickness, ribeye area and tenderness. Pretty interesting stuff!

In addition, the 4-H Alberta Steer Carcass Competition incorporates a “science and technology” theme by providing each you with another tool to consider when looking at your animal(s). By providing a genetic profile on 17 different traits, ranging from average daily gain and calving ease, to fat thickness and stayability, you are better able to determine what is the genetic makeup of your herd.

REGISTRATION DEADLINE

December 15 For more information: alexia.hoy@gov.ab.ca

REGIONAL CALGARY REGION WINTER BONANZA It’s January! It’s winter! So embrace it and come for a weekend of fun and friends.

DATES

January 3 - 5 LOCATION

EAST CENTRAL REGION INTERMEDIATE WINTER CAMP All Intermediate 4-H members in the region who are between the ages of 12 and 14 (as of January 1, 2020) are invited to register for Intermediate Camp. The camp will include sessions, games, group activities and lots of fun! Maximum of 80 campers.

DATES

Kamp Kiwanis

November 22 - 24

COUNSELOR DEADLINE

LOCATION

November 1

Circle Square Ranch, Halkirk AB

REGISTRATION DEADLINE

REGISTRATION DEADLINE

November 15

November 1

AWARDS DAY

FUN DAY

DATES

November 30 LOCATION

Hosted by Kneehill District

All 4-H members in the Region are invited to register for Fun Day! The day will include craft sessions, games, swimming and a whole lot more!

DATES

CURLING BONSPIEL Hurry hard!! Come for a great day on the ice with members from across the region.

January 4 LOCATION

William E Hay Stettler Secondary Campus, Stettler AB

DATES

REGISTRATION DEADLINE

February 17

January 2

LOCATION

TBA

JUNIOR WINTER CAMP

4-H ON PARADE

4-H’ers here is a great opportunity to join your friends for a weekend of fun and laughs.

One of the largest 4-H shows in the world, 4-H on Parade offers a regional show with something for everyone. From livestock and equine, to life skills and everything in between, this event is truly one of a kind and a must attend!

DATES

DATES

February 21 - 23 LOCATION

Circle Square Ranch, Halkirk AB REGISTRATION DEADLINE

TBA

May 28 - 31 LOCATION

Calgary Stampede Grounds REGISTRATION DEADLINE

April 1 For information on Calgary Region events contact: alexia.hoy@gov.ab.ca

35

EVENTS & OPPORTUNITIES

4-H ALBERTA MAGAZINE // 4H.AB.CA

FALL & WINTER 2019/20

4-H NIGHT AT THE RED DEER REBELS

4-H WEST CENTRAL REGION INTERMEDIATE WINTER CAMP

KNOWLEDGE COLLEGE & 4-H FAIR

Join 4-H members and their families from the West Central and East Central 4-H Regions to enjoy an evening of hockey!

Great games, group activities, friends and fun – need we say more?!?

DATES

DATES

The NW 4-H Knowledge College is for any leader, volunteer, parent or senior member in the Northwest Region. The 4-H Fair is open to all 4-H members and adults.

March 14

January 17 - 19

DATES

LOCATION

LOCATION

November 23

Enmax Centrium, Westerner Park, Red Deer AB

REGISTRATION DEADLINE

REGISTRATION DEADLINE

January 24 For information on East Central Region events contact Yvonne Yaremcio at Yvonne.yaremcio@gov.ab.ca NORTHEAST REGION FALL FLING

Alberta 4-H Centre, Westerose AB December 15 JUNIOR WINTER CAMP 4-H’ers here is a great opportunity to join your friends for a weekend of fun and laughs.

DATES

February 28 - March 1 LOCATION

Talk to anyone that has ever attended and they will tell you this is the best 24 hour camp in the country! Come join the Bonnyville District and other junior 4-H members from around the Northeast Region for games, challenges, creative sessions, and great fun. This camp also gives senior members a chance to learn responsibility and leadership, as they act as junior staff throughout the weekend.

Alberta 4-H Centre, Westerose AB

DATES

March 14

November 22 - 23 LOCATION

REGISTRATION DEADLINE

January 15 4-H NIGHT AT THE RED DEER REBELS Join 4-H members and their families from the West Central and East Central 4-H Regions to enjoy an evening of hockey!

DATES LOCATION

Ecole Notre Dame High School, Bonnyville AB

Enmax Centrium, Westerner Park, Red Deer AB

REGISTRATION DEADLINE

REGISTRATION DEADLINE

November 15 For more information on Northeast Region events contact Shelly Ann Dodgson at shellyann.dodgson@gov.ab.ca YOU BE THE JUDGE & CONSUMER DECISION MAKING Join us for an interactive livestock judging and consumer decision making workshop.

DATES

February 8

January 24 For information contact Yvonne Yaremcio at Yvonne.yaremcio@gov.ab.ca NORTHWEST REGION 8TH ANNUAL HORSE PLAY A fun day learning all about horses. Includes guest speakers, ID stations, slide show quiz, games, lunch and sessions with horses.

DATES

LOCATION

Lac Ste Anne REGISTRATION DEADLINE

November 1 4-H NIGHT AT THE EDMONTON OIL KINGS DATES

January 5 LOCATION

Rogers Place, Edmonton REGISTRATION DEADLINE

TBA WHAT’S YOUR BEEF? A beef project specific learning day open to all 4-H members and leaders.

DATES

January 18 LOCATION

AgBarn, Barrhead AB REGISTRATION DEADLINE

January 3 4-H WINTER WEEKEND Join in the games as we toboggan and play in the snow, enjoy some warmth with a dip in the pool and indoor games, get to know others from around the region, and re-acquaint yourself with friends made at summer camp. This camp is open to 9-12 year old members only.

DATES

January 25 - 26 LOCATION

LOCATION

November 2

Camp Nakamum, Busby AB

Lakeland College, Vermilion

LOCATION

REGISTRATION DEADLINE

REGISTRATION DEADLINE

Sturgeon Agriplex, Cardiff AB

January 3

March 31

REGISTRATION DEADLINE

For more information on Northwest Region events contact Stacy Murray at stacy.murray@gov.ab.ca

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October 23

SOUTH REGION CONSUMER DECISION MAKING WORKSHOP AND COMPETITION

PEACE REGION WINTER CAMP DATES

All members, junior, intermediate and senior invited to attend this EXCITING new event.

Note there are NO ANIMALS for those who may have allergies or are involved in projects other than livestock projects. Come and join us for what promises to be a fun day!

DATES

November 30

February 7 - 9 LOCATION

Camp Tamarack, Grande Prairie AB CAMPER REGISTRATION DEADLINE

PEACE COUNTRY CLASSIC AGRI-SHOW AND 4-H PROGRAM* DATES

March 7 LOCATION

Evergreen Park, Grande Prairie AB * Non-sanctioned event open to 4-H members

January 31

PEACE BEEF PROSPECT SHOW*

COUNSELLOR APPLICATION DEADLINE

DATES

December 31

April 18

LOCATION

LOCATION

Vauxhall Elementary School, Vauchall AB

Valleyview Ag Society Grounds, Valleyview AB

For more information contact Ginny Smith at ginny.smith@gov.ab.ca

* Non-sanctioned event open to 4-H members

For more information contact Nicole Hornett at Nicole.hornett@gov.ab.ca

37

EVENTS & OPPORTUNITIES

4-H ALBERTA MAGAZINE // 4H.AB.CA

FALL & WINTER 2019/20

4-H

Opening young minds to new skills is job one.

That’s why in 2019 your UFA has supported over 200 4-H programs that give local kids hands-on learning experiences.

UFA.com/Community

38 Š 2019 UFA Co-operative Ltd. All rights reserved. 13429