4-H Ontario News
Syngenta 4-H Ontario Arbor Awards application forms available!
4-H Ontario volunteers are passionate and dedicated individuals essential to the delivery and success of the Ontario 4-H program.
Why not nominate a dedicated volunteer today. Details and application form are now available. Select read more.
Ontario Dairy Youth Trust Fund 2010 Youth Award winners announced
Cambridge, ON July 12, 2010 - The Ontario Dairy Youth Award selection committee is pleased to announce the winners of the Award for 2010. This marks the 31st year of the competition that recognizes young people aged 25-35 who are actively involved in operating a dairy farm, who have demonstrated leadership and taken an active role in their communities and within their breed. These four award recipients receive an all-expense paid trip to the World Dairy Expo in Madison, Wisconsin this fall. The Ontario Dairy Youth Award is funded through the Ontario Dairy Youth Trust Fund and the Ontario Holstein Branch.
2010 Gencor Dairy Challenge East Results
Markham, ON - The 13th Annual Gencor Challenge East showcased a talented group of 144 youth
between the ages of 14 and 21. The event held at the Markham Fairgrounds on July 15 - 16, 2010,
encompassed showmanship, conformation and education divisions.
2010 Gencor Dairy Challenge West Results
Stratford, ON - The 13th Annual Gencor Challenge was held at the Stratford Agriplex on July 8 - 9,
2010. A group of 181 enthusiastic youth between the ages of 14 and 21 vied for top honours in
showmanship, conformation and educational divisions.
31st Anniversary 2010 EBI 4-H Showcase was remarkable!
Spencerville, ON - The 31st Anniversary of the EBI (Eastern Breeders Inc.) 4-H Showcase was by all
accounts, "Remarkable", states Paul Stewart, Supervisor of Genetic Programs and Communications and the Event Organizer. The three-day event, held July 2nd-4th at the Spencerville Fairgrounds, saw close to 130 4-H aged dairy participants from across Eastern Ontario compete and put the 4-H motto "Learn to Do by Doing" to work. This year’s event was held in conjunction with Holstein Ontario's 2nd Annual Eastern Ontario Junior Show.
Junior Farmers members working to secure future with own charity golf tournament
For over 66 years, Junior Farmers has shaped leaders and volunteers through its programming. Members are working hard to maintain the organization for future generations. For the last decade, JFAO has been responsible for raising its own funds through charity events. Fundraising has become a strong focus for JF so that the organization is able to continue to remain a recognizable influence across the province. Close to one hundred thousand past members mainly from rural Ontario can trace their self development and even matrimonial match making to Junior Farmers. Furthermore, the opportunities and lifelong friendships that are made in one’s youth through Junior Farmers are never to be forgotten.
$100,000 for 4-H Ontario Discovery Days over the next five years!
The Ontario Cattlemen’s Association (OCA) continues to support 4-H Ontario programming through to the 100th Anniversary of 4-H in Ontario in 2015.
(July 5, 2010 – Guelph, ON) Over the past two months more than 270 4-H members and their friends, ages 10-13, have had the opportunity to take a “Walk on the Wild Side” during one of six regionally delivered 4-H Ontario Discovery Days.
Ontario 4-H Foundation raises over $25,000 at 4th Annual Golf-East Tournament
(July 5, 2010 – Guelph, ON) With it’s 4th year now under its belt, the Ontario 4-H Foundation Annual Golf-East Tournament, presented by Genuity™, was once again a popular event. With great weather and golf greens at Anderson Links Golf & Country Club in Ottawa, players rallied together to support a great cause raising over $25,000, setting a new fundraising record for this tournament.
Ontario 4-H Foundation raises over $35,000 at 10th Annual Golf-West Tournament
(July 5, 2010 – Guelph, ON) With its 10th year now under its belt, the Ontario 4-H Foundation Annual Golf-West Tournament, presented by Genuity™, was once again a popular event. Despite the weather and with the great golf greens at Victoria Park East Golf Club in Guelph, 164 players rallied together to support a great cause raising over $35,000.
Ontario Mutuals support 4-H with $36,300 contribution
(Guelph – June 23, 2010) 4-H continues to move forward thanks to key partners that lead by example and invest into the health of communities. Ontario Mutuals™, on behalf of its 45 “farm mutual” companies, has provided a $36,300 contribution to 4-H in Ontario during 2010.
Now in their sixth year of coordinated support to 4-H in Ontario, funds are directed at the local, regional and provincial levels. Continuing their long-standing trend of community level support, $12,500 is directed to local 4-H Association needs. At the regional level, $13,800 will be geared toward regionally delivered training workshops, coordinated through the respective 4-H Ontario Regional Specialists to meet the needs within the region.
Monsanto Continues Partnership with Agriculture Leadership at Genuity Technology Expo
(July 5, 2010 – Guelph, ON) Monsanto and 4-H Ontario are once again partnering around the Genuity™ Technology Expo, part of Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show. This will be the third year of the partnership, which also includes the Rural Ontario Institute. To date, this unique partnership has raised over $20,000 to support rural leadership initiatives in Ontario.
This year for each farmer who tours the Genuity™ Technology Expo at Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show, September 14 to 16, Monsanto will donate $5 to rural leadership in Ontario, split equally between 4-H Ontario and the Rural Ontario Institute. In each of the past two years approximately 2,000 farmers have enjoyed the tour and Monsanto has committed a minimum of $5,000 to each organization this year.
Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame announces 2010 inductees
Guelph, ON - Influential Canadians Bertram (Bert) Stewart and the Honourable Lyle Vanclief join the ranks of Canada's most exceptional individuals as the 2010 inductees into the prestigious Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame. The formal induction ceremony will take place later this year at the Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame awards banquet on Sunday, November 7, 2010 at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair in Toronto, Ontario.
"This year's inductees have added significantly to the strength and development of Canada's agricultural industry," says Mary Lou McCutcheon, president of the Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame Association (CAHFA). "Through leadership and a lifelong commitment to a vibrant agricultural sector, Bert Stewart and Lyle Vanclief continue their work and dedication to Canadian agriculture, and CAHFA proudly recognizes their contributions with this highest honour."
To read the entire press release select 'read more'.
Where's Your Sign CONTEST!
How can you enter the contest?
Locate a 4-H flag, municipal/township sign with the logo, or a 4-H gate sign. Take a photo (high resolution - 300 dpi preferred), determine the GPS coordinates and send the photo and GPS coordinates to: communications@4-hontario.ca
Each complete (and eligible) entry will receive a ballot in the contest.
You may enter as many times as you wish providing you are submitting a unique and different sign each time.
Contest closes at midnight on August 31, 2010.
Draw will be held and winners announced in September 2010.
4-H Ontario MEDIA CONTEST!
Are you a Press Reporter for your 4-H Club?
Are you a volunteer who writes press releases about 4-H activities in your community?
Enter to help your Association WIN one of two $1000 4-H Mini-Store promotional vouchers!
For complete details select 'read more'.
2010 Dream Dinner Lottery Winners Announced
The 4-H Ontario Dream Dinner Lottery (Lottery Licence #M12199, Licensee: Ontario 4-H Council) grand prize-winner was announced at the 10th Annual Ontario 4-H Foundation Golf-West tournament, held at Victoria Parks East Golf Club. Congratulations to Annette Cousens (Kinburn, ON) who will be enjoying a gourmet dinner for two anywhere in the world, which includes return economy air tickets, two nights accommodations for two in a deluxe hotel, dinner for two at a gourmet restaurant plus $500 additional spending money!
To read the complete story select 'read more'.
2010 Dream Dinner Lottery Winners Announced
Congratulations to the 2010 Dream Dinner Lottery (Lottery Licence #M12199, Licensee: Ontario 4-H Council) grand prize recipient Annette Cousens (Kinburn, ON) who was the winner of a gourmet dinner for two anywhere in the world! Second prize of dinner for two anywhere in Canada went to Nancy & Gary Pegg (Keswick, ON) and third prize of two nights accommodation for two at a deluxe resort or hotel in Ontario was won by Dale & Marie Smith (Mount Hope).
The second early bird winner was Gerald Jones (Port Perry, ON) and the first early bird prize went to Tom Morawetz (Hampton, ON).
Vote for 4-H member Shelby Gobbo
Shelby Gobbo, a 4-H member since 2002, is competing in The Miss Teen Canada World Pageant. Shelby has done 4-H a big favour by having our organization as her platform.
"I knew the moment I was selected that I needed to represent 4-H. 4-H has been a big part of my life for many years and it is one of the greatest things that I've ever gotten involved with," says Shelby.
Please take 5 minutes and vote for her. Click on the link, sign up, and when you receive your confirmation email... VOTE!
Go Shelby!
Attention Region 2 members: Grenville Mutual $1,500 Scholarship available!
The 4-H member must be: currently enrolled in the 4-H program in Region 2. A 4-H member for at least two (2) years. Entering or is currently enrolled in a Post Secondary Education Program at College or University for the year 2010.
Deadline to apply is July 19, 2010.
To find out more select read more.
Canadian 4-H Classic Junior Dairy Show November 6-8, 2010
The Canadian 4-H Classic Junior Dairy Show committee is preparing for its 31st show that will once again take place at the Royal Winter Fair in Toronto. The show continues to be the highlight of a 4-H dairy member’s career and is a tremendous way to conclude the year with the electric atmosphere at the Royal.
TD Canada Trust Agricultural Services, Kubota Canada, Holstein Canada and the Semex Alliance and their partners are once again the sponsors of our show and they were delighted with the working relationship that they had last year and are looking forward to the future with this amalgamation of sponsors.
Resource Update: The Chocolate Project
The revised Reference & Record Books are now available in the project section of the website.
Log-in to the secure area, select Member/Volunteer Login, select Resources; Projects; New Projects.
Enjoy!
Canadian Red & White Holstein Club 2010 Youth Contest
In order to recognize youth with an interest in Red & White Holsteins, the Canadian Red & White Holstein Club has established a nationwide contest for 2010. Canada will be divided in four areas: West, East, Ontario and Quebec. There will be one winner per region.
All Canadian youth who complete a 4-H or AJRQ (Association des Jeunes Ruraux du Quebec) dairy project this year showing a true Red & White Holstein calf are eligible to enter a draw for one of four special edition Canadian Red & White Holstein Club jackets.
Entry deadline is October 1st.
Inaugural ODY Business Management School provides participants with Dairy $en$e
Forty young dairy enthusiasts descended on the University of Guelph May 6, 7 & 8 to participate in the inaugural Ontario Dairy Youth Business Management School organized by the Ontario Holstein Branch and 4-H Ontario. The three-day intensive workshop was designed to focus on the business and financial side of running a dairy farm.
To read the entire press release select 'read more'.
Kubota Canada will invest $200,000 in 4-H across Canada
Funding helps to support provincial rallies for 4-H youth
[OTTAWA, April 30, 2010] The Canadian 4-H Council is very pleased with the investment that Kubota Canada Ltd. has made by sponsoring provincial, regional and local 4-H beef and dairy shows across Canada leading up to the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair, held each November in Toronto.
To read the entire bilingual press release please select 'read more'.
Ontario Shorthorn Association incentive
The Ontario Shorthorn Association is pleased to announce it will donate $50.00 to any Junior Buyer who is a member of any Junior Cattle Association or any 4-H Club who purchases an animal at the OSA Fall Classic Shorthorn Sale on October 23, 2010 at 1:00pm at Orangeville Fairgrounds in Orangeville, ON. For further details contact Bob Riviere at 905.847.2008 or 905.466.1466. bobriviere@sympatico.ca
Leaders Building Leaders prepare to meet new challenges!
2010 4-H Ontario Conference and Annual Meeting (CAM)
With blueprints and construction of the conference now complete, volunteers can begin to meet the new challenge issued at this year’s conference.
Rounding out a couple of jam-packed days was the 10,000 members and 3,000 volunteers in 2015 Challenge. 4-H Ontario will celebrate 100 years of Leaders Building Leaders in 2015. In order to meet the challenge, the new 4-H habit needs to be that as a volunteer or a member - you will invite a friend to an event or an activity. Once they join, then they too will invite a friend, and our numbers, and new opportunities will grow!
Rural Ontario Institute (ROI) launches new website
The Rural Ontario Institute (ROI) is pleased to announce the launch of our brand new website www.ruralontarioinstitute.ca, a web portal devoted to information, opportunities and resources for a strong and vibrant rural Ontario.
The site features a “What’s New” section on its homepage to provide visitors with information on ROI’s latest activities.
Applications now accepted for Memorial Scholarship from Outstanding Young Farmers
Nominations are open for the Outstanding Young Farmers (OYF) Memorial Scholarship for a young Canadian pursuing a post secondary education in agriculture. Started in 2009, the $1,000 annual scholarship was established by the late Martin Streef, recipient of both Ontario's and Canada's OYF awards in 1996.
For complete details select 'read more'.
4-H Farm Safety Day covered ATVs to sun safety
Rural safety highlighted at Crystal Palace
Posted By Rita Marshall 4 days ago in The Mithcell Advocate
Wholesome country living can be dangerous, too.
About 120 4-H youth from Perth, Huron and surrounding counties gathered at the Crystal Palace April 10 for Farm Safety Day, a chance to learn more about the dangers of living in a rural area and how to deal with them safely.
To read the entire article select 'read more'.
National Youth Week May 1 - 7, 2010
What is National Youth Week?
National Youth Week is dedicated to the celebration of youth and their active participation in their community. Whether it is recreation, drama, sport, dance, civic engagement, art, volunteerism or leadership, every day young people are involved in meaningful activities during their discretionary time. National Youth Week is a time to honour their involvement.
Building stronger partnerships with province's not-for-profit sector
Toronto, ON (April 22, 2010) - It is with great pleasure and anticipation that the Ontario Nonprofit Network learned that the Honorable Eric Hoskins, Minister of Citizenship and Immigration and Helen Burstyn, Chair of the Ontario Trillium Foundation are heading a joint initiative to build a stronger partnership with the Province's not-for-profit sector.
Rob Black named CEO of the new Rural Ontario Institute
Guelph, ON [April 1, 2010] – Accomplished leader and rural Ontario advocate Rob Black has been named as the chief executive officer (CEO) of the new Rural Ontario Institute. Well-known in the agricultural industry, Black will lead the new not-for-profit organization that officially began operations today, April 1, 2010.
The Rural Ontario Institute (ROI) formed through the amalgamation of The Centre for Rural Leadership (TCRL) and The Ontario Rural Council (TORC), with a mandate to provide stronger support for key issues facing rural Ontario. ROI’s new offices are located at Gencor, just north of Guelph.
New 4-H / John Deere merchandise now available across Canada
It has never been easier for 4-H members, leaders and supporters to wear green - as well as some yellow - and show their 4-H colours.
To learn more about this new initiative or to see what merchandise is available, select 'read more'.
Topics and competition date announced for young speakers' competition
Five new topics and a competition date have been announced for the 2010 Canadian Young Speakers for Agriculture (CYSA) competition.
To find out the date and the topics select 'read more'.
Gencor expands support of beef show for Ontario Youth
Gencor is pleased to announce the expansion of their beef youth program by moving away from one general show to two exciting larger shows, the Western Fair Junior Beef Expo held in London, Ontario, and the Youth Forum held in Orangeville, Ontario.
With this new format Gencor will be able to support two larger shows and create an opportunity for more youth involved in 4-H Beef clubs across our service area.
To read the complete press release select 'read more.'
$42,525.00 presented to 4-H Ontario
Funds will be used to develop youth leadership across the province.
In August last year, Eastern Breeders Inc., and Gencor put together a terrific opportunity to support 4-H. With the purchase of a unit of Braedale Goldwyn - the most respected sire in the world - $25 was donated to the provincial 4-H organization to help support 4-H youth.
Syngenta 4-H Ontario Arbor Awards recognizes volunteers
Three amazing 4-H volunteers recognized at the 4-H Ontario 2010 Conference and Annual Meeting.
(February 27th, 2010 - Waterloo, ON ) Three 4-H volunteers were awarded the Syngenta 4-H Ontario Arbor Award recently at the 4-H Ontario 2010 Conference and Annual Meeting in Waterloo, ON. Recipients of this prestigious award are Diane Armstrong, Peterborough 4-H, Shelley Barfoot-O'Neill, Grey 4-H, and John den Haan, South Simcoe 4-H. Each of the recipients were presented with an award at the evening banquet, their name will be displayed on a plaque and a tree will be planted in their honour, within their community.
University of Guelph's College Royal Society invites you to
The semester is flying by, and preparations for the biggest campus wide event of the year, College Royal are well underway.
The College Royal Society is pleased to announce that the College Royal™ Celebrant has been elected, and welcome Sarah Brien, a second year Animal Science major, as the 2010 Celebrant. Brien is anxiously awaiting the Open House and encourages everyone to attend this fun filled family event!
To read the complete press release, select 'read more'.
Minister Mitchell announces $200,000 transition investment to Rural Ontario Institute
Guelph, ON [February 26, 2010] – A provincial government investment will help the new Rural Ontario Institute make a strong, smooth transition from the amalgamation of The Centre for Rural Leadership (TCRL) and The Ontario Rural Council (TORC). Grants totaling $200,000 were announced by the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Carol Mitchell, in Toronto on February 23, 2010.
Eight 4-H volunteers recognized with annual award
Co-operators/4-H Volunteer Leader of the Year Award recognizes the efforts of 4-H volunteers across Canada. The Canadian 4-H Council announced eight recipients of the 2009 Co-operators/4-H National Volunteer Leader of the Year Award, representing eight of the ten provinces across Canada, including Ellen Syme of Almonte, Ontario.
Syme will receive a $100 gift, as well as Co-operators and 4-H products. She was nominated by her club, the Almonte Dairy Calf Club, and has close to 30 years of 4-H leader experience.
"Ellen is always thinking of others, and it is time we thought of her," her club wrote about Syme. "She works tirelessly to ensure that things run smoothly and we all have a good time."
Syme has been extremely active in her community, including volunteer time with her local church on a weekly basis. In addition to 4-H, she also works at a veterinary clinic as well as her dairy farm.
"Ellen Syme is a great example of a dedicated and committed 4-H leader," said Judy Shaw, president of the Canadian 4-H Council. "On behalf of the Canadian 4-H Council, I would like to thank Ellen for her time, commitment and contributions to the 4-H program."
Ten 4-H members have their 2009 projects awarded All-Ontario or Reserve All-Ontario calves
ALL ONTARIO AWARDS ANNOUNCED
Cambridge, ON March 2, 2010 —The Ontario Holstein Branch in conjunction with the Ontario Dairy Farmer magazine is very pleased to announce the outstanding animals selected for the 2009 All Ontario awards. Presentations took place at the Ontario Holstein Branch Annual Meeting on February 24th. To view pictures of these fine animals visit http://www.ontario.holstein.ca/Awards/All-OntarioAwards.aspx
This competition is sponsored by the Ontario Dairy Farmer magazine, the Ontario Holstein Branch, Quality Seeds, Battlefield Cat and Foundation Sires.
Nuffield Farming Scholarship Applications Open
(Innisfail, AB - March 2, 2010) The Canadian Nuffield Farming Scholarship Trust is accepting applications for their 2011 program. Applications are due by April 30, 2010 and forms can be downloaded from the Nuffield Canada website at http://www.nuffield.ca.
Nuffield Farming Scholarships are awarded to enthusiastic individuals, between the ages of 25 and 45, who wish to explore topics of their choice in agriculture, land management, horticulture or the food chain.
Three scholarships of $15,000 each are available for 2011.
Announcing the 2010 4-H Ontario Ambassadors
Five enthusiastic 4-H members will represent 4-H Ontario across the province as part of the Ambassador program which is made possible thanks to the generous support of sponsors GROWMARK, Inc. and UPI Energy LP. 2010 marks the 6th year of this program that not only promotes 4-H and its sponsoring companies but also develops young leaders. The successful candidates will spend the next year promoting 4-H across the province, and hope to pledge their Head, Heart, Hands and Health to this role, through the slogan they have created: “Building Youth one “H” at a time!”. Congratulations to Anikka Bolender, Nicole Charlton, Jessie Groniger, Eleri Morris and Valerie Stone on their success!
2010 Ontario Holstein Branch Board of Directors
Cambridge, ON February 26, 2010 - At their February 24th Board Meeting, Ontario Holstein Directors elected Brian Slaughter of Forest as President and Ron Greaves of North Augusta as Vice-President.
For a complete list of directors select 'read more'.
Gateway to the North lottery winner announced!
The winning ticket, #14, in the Gateway to the North Lottery of the Kubota RTV 500-A unit was held by Bob Ready of St. Marys, ON.
Second prize of a Poulan chain saw went to Andrew James Jessup, Timmins, ON, holding ticket #45.
Licence #626704 - Licensee Region 1 4-H Council
Senior 4-H members embrace entrepreneurship at OYF national awards competition
In early December 2009, seven senior 4-H members were invited to attend the Outstanding Young Farmers (OYF) National Awards Program at the Chateau Laurier in Ottawa, to participate in a panel discussion, to listen and be inspired by the seven national OYF honorees.
2009 Amber Underwood Memorial 4-H News Competition winners announced!
4-H Ontario announces 2009 Amber Underwood Memorial 4-H News Competition Winners, Nicole Shelley of Hanover and Christina Straathof of Westmeath
(Guelph, ON – Dec. 2009) The Amber Underwood Memorial 4-H News Competition had an astounding 24 junior entries and 5 senior entries in 2009. These 29 entries showcased the writing talents of 4-H members from across the province with Christina Straathof and Nicole Shelley coming out on top.
Hardware handed out at annual awards night!
There was plenty of hardware handed out at the annual Kawartha Lakes Haliburton 4-H Association awards night.
Dairy Club leader Rob Garland was awarded the Joy Daniels Volunteer of the Year Award at the event, which was attended by 170 people at I. E. Weldon Secondary School on Nov. 28. The award is named after longtime volunteer Daniels, who served on numerous committees, assisted with Go for the Gold competitions locally and provincially and was active until three weeks before her death in 1992.
The award recognizes an individual that consistently exhibits an interest in 4-H, and displays the qualities of kindness, patience, perseverance, diplomacy and untiring effort.
Garland has been a club volunteer for 14 years. According to 4-H officials, he has opened his home and farm to host 4-H meetings, mentored, coached and encouraged 4-H members through their dairy projects. He and his wife have also chaperoned dairy youth teams to the Gencor Challenge and the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair in Toronto.
Long-time members Anne-Marie Durward and Amanda Staples won the 4-H Leadership Awards, sponsored by CIBC, which recognize senior members that have completed a minimum of four years in 4-H, at least 12 years and be a minimum of 16 years of age. Durward has been a member for 11 years and completed 35 projects in beef, horse, field crops, vet science and numerous life skills projects. She has served as president, secretary and youth leader of clubs, and has participated in local, regional and national 4-H activities.
Staples has been in 4-H for 10 years and has completed 60 projects in vet science, beef, draft horse, sheep, poultry, farm safety, swine, plowing, square dancing and numerous life skills projects.
4-H team ranks 6th at 34th Annual Judging Competition!
Canadian National 4-H & Youth Judging Competition hosted by Canadian Western Agribition in Regina, Saskatchewan from November 22 – 24, 2009, hosts teams from other 4-H provinces, agriculture colleges and one from the United Kingdom.
The Ontario 4-H team of Eleri Morris (Elmvale), Christina Straathof (Westmeath), Cassandra Werry (Oshawa), Ryan Carefoot (Meaford), Kaleb Nieuwehuis (Beachburg), Sean Sutherland (Port Perry) and chaperone John Drummond (Breslau) ranked 6th at this year’s Annual Judging Competition when all tabulations were completed.
Ontario 4-H Foundation provides $1,500 to delegates at national events!
Volunteers and members receive support from the Katherine & Byron Beeler Leadership & Citizenship Endowment Fund.
(Guelph, ON) More than 180 delegates from across Canada gathered at three different National events to share ideas, create change and build marketable skills. Support for 4-H Ontario's delegates at these events - National 4-H Citizenship Seminar, National 4-H Members Conference and National 4-H Volunteer Leaders' Conference - was made possible through the Katherine and Byron Beeler Leadership & Citizenship Endowment Fund.
To read the entire press release select 'read more'.
Who is Ontario's Outstanding Young Farmer for 2010?
Here's your chance to recognize someone with the title of the 2009 Ontario Outstanding Young Farmer. This award will be presented at the Regional Conference to be held next April 2-4 in Belleville, Ontario.
We are seeking people who contribute to the community, who seek new opportunities, and who generally are assets to Ontario's agri-food industry.
Anyone can nominate a young farmer/farm couple for the award. The eligibility requirements are simply: Must be between the ages of 18 and 39; Must operate a farm; and Must derive a minimum of 2/3 of their income from farming.
For complete details select 'read more'.
Horseless 4-H horse clubs a "virtual" reality!
Grand River Agricultural Society supports new partnership between 4-H Ontario and Equine Guelph to help create online horse learning community.
4-H Ontario and Equine Guelph recently announced a new partnership that will see the creation of a 4-H online horse learning community placed within the successful online learning environment developed by Equine Guelph. The Grand River Agricultural Society has generously provided $10,000 as initial funding.
Select 'read more' for further details.
New organization takes the lead on rural Ontario issues
Two provincial organizations have merged to create the new Rural Ontario Institute, a not-for-profit organization formed to provide stronger support for key issues facing rural Ontario. The Centre for Rural Leadership (TCRL) and The Ontario Rural Council (TORC) will officially amalgamate on April 1, 2010 to form the Rural Ontario Institute, operating out of the Ontario AgriCentre in Guelph, ON.
Peterborough 4-H team tops at Royal Winter Fair
The Peterborough County 4-H team was named premier county and won the prestigious Bill Edelstein Bowl at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair in Toronto earlier this month.
The team placed first over 51 other teams from across Canada and exhibited the second-best group of three calves at the Classic 4-H Junior Dairy Show held Nov. 7 to 9 at the Royal Winter Fair.
Eight 4-H members from Peterborough County were selected to represent this area. They were: Christina Crowley, Justin Crowley, Ryan Crowley, Vanessa Crowley, Emily Henderson, Kyle Henderson, Joel Stillman and Stephanie Warner.
Throughout the three-day competition, competitors were judged as a team on their teamwork abilities, sportsmanship and knowledge of the dairy industry as well as their county exhibit, the release states.
They were also judged individually on their showmanship skills and on confirmation with their 4-H project.
The Peterborough team had five people make the Top 10 for showmanship and had four animals place in the Top 10 for confirmation.
Among the accomplishments:
First Place Junior Showman and first place junior calf - Vanessa Crowley.
Second Place Summer Yearling - Kyle Henderson.
Sixth Place Intermediate Showman - Ryan Crowley.
Seventh Place Senior Showman and fourth senior calf - Christina Crowley.
Sixth Place Junior Yearling and ninth senior showman - Justin Crowley.
Tenth Place Junior Showman - Emily Henderson.
More than 355 participants with 51 teams from seven provinces exhibited at this year's show, the release states.
Brant 4-H
This has been a busy year for Brant County 4-H members with the beef, dairy, sheep, crops and square dancing club members competing at area fairs, most recently at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair.
Congratulations to Duncan Archer, winner of the junior young speakers competition at the winter fair.
The Making a Difference (MAD) project participated in the Relay for Life for the third straight year.
The MAD 4 LIFE club youth leader has initiated Brant 4-H's involvement with Con-Kerr Cancer, surpassing 130 handmade pillow cases donated to pediatric cancer units at Sick Children's Hospital, Toronto, and McMaster Hospital, Hamilton, in the past two years.
The Eye on Energy club members experienced a tour of a solar-powered home that is built into the side of a hill.
In July, 14 Renfrew 4-H members along with their leaders were hosted by Brant's 4-H Exchange club members and leaders over four days, touring Brant County and a trip to Niagara Falls.
Renfrew returned the hospitality with 18 Brant 4-H members and leaders travelling to Renfrew County for four fun packed days, with a stop at Old Fort Henry on the return trip.
Many Brant 4-H members participated in regional and provincial opportunities: Careermania and Future Leaders in Action.
Nicole Charlton and Lesleigh Elgie earned the opportunity to attend the 4-H National Citizenship Seminar, Ottawa, in April.
Region 5 grabs gold at provincial Go For The Gold competition!
(Guelph, ON – November 18, 2009) After five preliminary rounds and a nail-biting championship game the team from Region 5 — representing the Huron 4-H Association—grabbed gold at the Go For The Gold (GFTG) provincial championships held on November 7th at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair.
Teammates, Katie Brady, Maggie Aislie, Raina Venerhoeds and Ursina Studhalter along with their Coach Heather Stark, beat out the very competitive team from Region 2's Grenville 4-H Association to come away with the champion ribbon. The runner-up Grenville team consisted of Ashley Connell, Alison Ferguson, Steven Ferguson, Laura Scott, Natalie Templeton and coach Maria Ferguson.
Lights! Camera! Take FARM SAFETY action!
4-H Ontario senior members set to produce farm safety “commercials”
The Canadian Agricultural Safety Association (CASA) recently granted $40,858.00 to 4-H Ontario for their project “Farm Safety - Through the Eyes of Youth”.
The project will allow select senior 4-H members from across Ontario to meet, research, write, star-in, direct and produce three (3) one minute Public Safety Announcements (PSA’s) on farm safety. The PSA’s will then be used to promote farm safety awareness at activities and events around the province, as well as within the 52 local 4-H Associations.
Canadian Young Speakers for Agriculture - Ontario speakers take top awards!
TORONTO, ON - Speakers from Ontario took top prizes in the Canadian Young Speakers for Agriculture (CYSA)'s 25th annual competition, held at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair. Among 26 registrants from six provinces, Cindy Schickedanz of Stouffville, Ontario, won the senior category, with Duncan Archer of Brant County, Ontario, capturing the junior award.
30th Anniversary 4-H Classic still going strong!
353 of Canada's top dairy youth from 51 teams across 7 Canadian provinces took part in the 30th annual Canadian 4-H Classic Junior Dairy Show at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair on November 7-9, 2009.
Erin 4-H Beef Club gives the gift that keeps on giving forward!
Erin 4-H beef club members, present Paul McLellan of SHARE a $700 cheque to buy a cow in Central America for a struggling family. SHARE stands for Sending Help and Resources Everywhere. For complete details select 'read more'.
Lights! Camera! Take FARM SAFETY action!
This is your opportunity to make an impact!
4-H Ontario has received funding from the Canadian Agricultural Safety Association (CASA) to have 4-H members: research, write, star-in, direct and produce, three (3) one minute public safety announcements (PSA's) on farm safety.
Who is eligible: Senior 4-H members (age 15-21) from across Ontario. Volunteers/leaders to form an advisory committee.
To find out how to apply select 'read more'.
DEADLINE to apply is November 13th!
Farm Safety initiatives continue to grow awareness
The David Perrin Memorial 4-H Farm Safety Endowment Fund
Just over one year-ago, on October 4th, 14-year-old 4-H member David Perrin died tragically in a silo gas accident on his family’s farm.
Wanting to take action, the Perrin family and the Ontario 4-H Foundation created the David Perrin Memorial 4-H Farm Safety Endowment Fund and launched the initiative at the 2008 Royal Agricultural Winter Fair (RAWF), raising over $50,000 in memory of David.
Select 'read more' for the entire press release.
4-H Ontario and Hydro One partnership has spirits (and people) lifting
Fundraiser at International Plowing Match offered visitors the chance to ride over 150 feet up in a Bronto Skylift and support youth development.
4-H Kicks Off Show Your 4-H Colours Event on Nov. 4th!
To help kick off National 4-H Month in November, 4-H members, leaders, alumni and supporters will be wearing green on November 4th for the annual Show Your 4-H Colours event.
Contest Winners Announced!
"Design 4-H Ontario's 2009 Holiday Greetings"
4-H Ontario is proud to announce the winners: Junior design winner, Sydney DeVries and Senior design winner Robyn Rutherford. For the full press release select 'read more
Cards will be available for purchase through the 4-H Ontario MiniStore in November.
Agricultural Industry Feeds the Minds of its Future Leaders
The thirteenth class of the Advanced Leadership Program (AALP) began their 19-month leadership journey with an intensive four-dayt seminar in Guelph from September 27-30, 2009.
Ontario Young Farmers Forum Driving to Success
Young and future Ontario farmers are looking for new ideas and advice in developing their businesses amidst changing economics in an increasingly challenging industry are invited to the 2009 Ontario Young Farmers' Forum (OYFF), where the theme is "Driving to Success".
CIBC invests in 4-H youth development in Northern Ontario
$10,000 commitment enables 4-H presence at International Plowing Match & Rural Expo.
CIBC continued its commitment to sponsor a 4-H presence at this year's International Plowing Match & Rural Expo with a generous contribution of $10,000. Billed as "the largest event ever held in Northern Ontario" the International Plowing Match & Rural Expo ran from September 22nd-26th in the District of Timiskaming.
Canadian 4-H Classic Junior Dairy Show entry form and pertinent information
The TD Canada Trust Agriculture Services Youth Leadership Congress at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair will feature the Junior Dairy show and Junior Beef Heifer show as well as other youth shows during the Royal. We also welcome back Kubota Canada, Semex Alliance and Holstein Canada as sponsors to the youth shows at the Royal.
Select 'read more' to obtain entry form and chaperone forms.
4-H Ontario Ambassadors lead by example
Ambassadors promote 4-H in both traditional and non-traditional 4-H venues, bringing enthusiasm and a wealth of personal first-hand experience in encouraging those in attendance at events to get involved in the many varied opportunities available through 4-H programs. In doing so, they learn new leadership and citizenship skills such as communication techniques and public relations, build strong friendships, and learn to do by doing. 2009 represents the fifth year for the popular program, made possible through the generous contributions of GROWMARK, Inc. and UPI Energy LP.
Kubota Canada investment bolsters Learn To Do By Doing experience for 4-H members
Company invests nearly $200,000 in 4-H Across Canada
The Canadian 4-H Council recently announced a $200,000 investment made by Kubota Canada Ltd., geared toward assisting with sponsorship of regional and local 4-H shows across the country, culminating with the 2009 edition of the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair.
Ontario Holstein Branch honours EBI
Cambridge, ON September 3, 2009 – The Ontario Holstein Branch recognized Eastern Breeders Inc. for their support of Branch programs by planting a tree at the EBI Head Office in Kemptville.
4-H to officially open 2009 Canada's Outdoor Farm Show
In recognition of the important role that 4-H plays in the lives of young people and rural communities, Canada's Outdoor Farm Show (COFS) has invited representatives of 4-H Ontario to officially open the 16th edition of the Show at noon on Tuesday, September 15th at the Ginty Jocius Memorial Waterfall.
Ilderton Fair representative crowned 2009 Ambassador of the Fairs at CNE
(Toronto, ON) August 23, 2009 – The Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) today announced Angela Curtis of the Ilderton Agricultural Society as the winner of the 38th annual Ambassador of the Fairs Competition. Over 70 young men and women aged 18 to 25, winners of local fairs across Ontario, competed in the final round of the three-day competition held in the Queen Elizabeth Theatre.
Junior Farmer member headed to Ireland on exchange
Wellington County Junior Farmer member Jennifer Dane from Wroxeter, Ontario will be heading to the Republic of Ireland after being granted an exchange through the Junior Farmers Association of Ontario (JFAO).
West-Central Ontario Junior Show a hit with keen 4-H dairy youth!
On August 19th, over 100 4-H members brought their calves and their enthusiasm to Elora, ON. The 19th was a day filled with fun and learning, the kids learning about getting ready and showing their calves. The kids also played games and took part in a
scavenger hunt that had them searching all around the show-grounds. The kids camped out on the racetrack for the night in anticipation of Wednesday’s show.
Monsanto Continues Partnership with Agriculture Leadership at Genuity Technology Expo
For every farmer who takes the time to tour the Genuity Technology Expo at Canada's Outdoor Farm Show - Monsanto will donate $5 to agricultural leadership programs in Ontario.
The future of agriculture meets the future of agriculture leadership once again at Monsanto's Genuity Technology Expo, part of Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show. Last year, Monsanto celebrated the opening of its technology expo by partnering with 4-H Ontario and The Centre for Rural Leadership through its Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program (AALP), and this year will be no different. Monsanto and 4-H Ontario will continue their partnership, as expectations for this year’s Genuity Technology Expo are even bigger and better.
Boxes from IVOMEC® & EPRINEX® Pour-On help fund local 4-H projects
Merial Canada is pleased to announce the continuation of its IVOMEC & EPRINEX BoxBack fundraising program in conjunction with the Canadian 4-H Council. Merial will donate ten dollars to the local 4-H Club for each box label of eligible IVOMEC Pour-On or EPRINEX Pour-On returned through the program. 4-H members are encouraged to cut out a specified section of the cardboard packaging (after the contents have been used) and submit it to Merial. The program runs until February 28, 2010.
Several clubs and members took part in last year's BoxBack program resulting in $3,360 total being distributed between 19 clubs in Ontario (dependent on how many they each returned). Select 'read more' for the entire bilingual press release.
Western Ontario Junior Show a huge hit with 4-H'ers
Woodstock, ON August 4, 2009 – A large contingent of junior 4-H members flocked to the Outdoor Farm Show grounds in Woodstock for the Western Ontario Junior Show held on July 14-15th.
Inter-County Judging Competition - 4-H'ers judge world class cattle at Ontario summer show
Lindsay, ON July 27, 2009 – At the Lindsay Fairgrounds on Wednesday, July 22, close to 80 4-H members were given the opportunity to judge some exceptional cattle. The new buildings at the Lindsay Fairgrounds were the perfect location for the Inter-County 4-H Dairy Cattle Judging Competition as the Ontario Summer Show was to be held there the following two days. This gave these keen dairy enthusiasts the chance to judge cattle that were about to participate in one of Canada’s foremost dairy shows.
Another Successful Ontario Holstein Summer Show!
Lindsay, ON July 28, 2009 – Judge Orville Schmidt of Ponoka, AB placed 236 head in an extremely deep show on Friday July 24, 2009.
CleanFARMS collection program coming this fall
A well-established obsolete pesticide collection program is being expanded this year to also provide farmers with safe disposal for unused animal health products and sharps. This first-of-its-kind program is taking place this fall as part of an Ontario government supported Great Lakes Basin water quality initiative that offers farmers a way to recycle these items.
Six young Canadians represent TEAM Canada at the European Young Breeders School!
Six young Canadians will take off this fall for Battice, in Belgium, to attend the 10th edition of the European Young Breeders School (EYBS), which will take place from September 2 to 6, 2009.
Congratulations to: Christine Breton of Norbertville, Quebec, winner at the 2008 Holstein Québec Young Breeders School; Anne-Marie Ouellet of Saint-Philippe-de-Néri, Quebec, winner at the 2009 Holstein Quebec Dairy Cattle Fitting School; Lindsay Greenough of Newport, Nova Scotia, winner at the 2009 Atlantic Young Breeders School; Christina Crowley of Guelph, Ontario, selected to represent Ontario; Kyle Rivington of Carp, Ontario, selected to represent Ontario; and, Lee Simanton of Ponoka, Alberta, selected to represent Western Canada.
East-Central District hosts another successful Junior 4-H Show
Dairy 4-H members from six (6) counties in East-Central Ontario participated in the two-day event held at the Orono Fairgorunds on July 6 & 7, 2009.
New partnership features grassroots support and increased visibility for 4-H
OTTAWA, July 16, 2009- Today, Farm Credit Canada (FCC) announced the continuation and expansion of the FCC 4-H 4-Ever program in partnership with the Canadian 4-H Council, with an annual funding commitment of $250,000 for each of the next four years. The FCC 4-H 4-Ever program was conceived in 2006 to help raise awareness of 4-H and grow membership across Canada.
Your Goldwyn opportunity to support 4-H!
FIRST COME - FIRST SERVE!
Braedale Goldwyn's price will be reduced to $150* and EBI will donate $25 from every dose of Goldwyn purchased to your provincial 4-H organization to help support our youth. (*not eligible for Vantage Semen Rebates) Select read more to obtain the flyer.
30th Anniversary 2009 EBI 4-H Showcase was Remarkable!
The 30th Anniversary of the EBI (Eastern Breeders Inc.) 4-H Showcase was by all accounts, “Remarkable”, states Paul Stewart, Supervisor of Genetic Programs and Communications and the EBI 4-H Showcase organizer. The three-day event, held July 3rd-5th at the Spencerville Fairgrounds, saw close to 125 4-H aged dairy participants from across Eastern Ontario compete and put the 4-H motto “Learn to Do by Doing” to work. This year’s event was held in conjunction with Holstein Ontario’s 1st Annual Eastern Ontario Junior Show. Select 'read more' for the entire press release. Photos will be posted in the on-line gallery shortly.
EBI 4-H Showcase & Eastern Ontario Junior Show a resounding success!
Inaugural Eastern Ontario Junior Show a BIG success!
The first Eastern Ontario Junior Show, ran in conjunction with the 30th Anniversary of the EBI 4-H Showcase as it expanded the tradition of junior
shows across the province. The Spencerville Fairgrounds was the site for the joint show as close to 125 4-H members took in many presentations and activities over the three day event. Select 'read more' for the entire press release. Photos available in the on-line gallery shortly.
(BC) Lundy 4-H Beef Club Barbeque Benefits Local Teens
A group of Lumby teens have decided to give a helping hand to some of their less fortunate peers.
The Lumby 4H Beef Club, a group made up of eight individuals aged 14 to 19, have decided to give the proceeds from their upcoming hamburger sale to the Teens Count Too organization.
The 4H Beef Club is one of the 4H clubs of Canada and they raise steers for market at the stock show. The club also showcases female livestock and is involved in community activities and public speaking events. Select 'read more' for the entire story.
4-H Achievement Day brings the beef
Posted By Robert Strachan
The weather was perfect for the Meskanaw – Ethelton 4-H Beef Club annual achievement day on Sunday, June 28. The 12 members of the club proudly marched their steers, heifers and calves around with the hope of having their prized cow honoured as the grand champion. Select 'read more' for the entire story.
Dedication, Commitment and Diversity Shown by Students
Ontario Dairy Youth Scholarship Winners for 2009 have been selected and are to be congratulated for their very impressive attributes. The selection committee is pleased to announce this year's outstanding winners - Congratulations to all!
Degree Winners: Katie Allen, Vankleek Hill, Michael Barnum, Cambellford, Lynsay Henderson, Mossley,and Jaclyn Rivington, Carp. Diploma winners: Justin Crowley, Hastings, Jessie Hubbs, Bloomfield, Shea O'Neill, Hepworth, and Melissa Sager. Select 'read more' to read the entire press release.
AALP selects a new crop of leaders for Class 13
(Guelph, ON) Leadership is not a spectator sport – it must be practiced. The selection of the thirty individuals who will participate in the Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program (AALP) Class 13 was recently made by the board of The Centre for Rural
Leadership (TCRL).
Ontario 4-H Foundation Golf-East Tournament
Driving away the clouds to help provide a bright future for youth
Now into its 3rd year in the East, the Ontario 4-H Foundation Annual Tournament generously presented this year by Monsanto Canada and Genuity™, is proving to be a popular event. With great golf greens at Emerald Links Golf & Country Club, in Greely, players rallied together to support a great cause – the Ontario 4-H Foundation Endowment – raising over $16,000!
Ontario 4-H Foundation Golf-West Tournament
Driving away the clouds to help provide a bright future for youth
Now into its 9th year in the West, the Ontario 4-H Foundation annual golf tournament, generously presented this year by Monsanto Canada and Genuity™, continues to be a popular event. Despite the imposing weather at host course Victoria Park Golf Club East, in Guelph, players rallied together to support a great cause – the Ontario 4-H Foundation Endowment – raising over $32,000!
Dryden 4-H Discovery Day
By Sarah Madussi • Reprinted with permission from the Dryden Observer
The Dryden 4-H Club held its annual Discovery Days over the weekend for kids in the club ages 10-13 years old. The theme this year was “Out of this World” which included cool “space” crafts and learning about astronomy.
The club brought in astronomer, Guy Wescott of the Manitoba Museum’s Planetarium who lectured the kids on the stars, the galaxy and how to tell the difference between meteoroids, meteors and meteorites. His grandson, Ethan Wild, also did a presentation on his trip to the many observatories in the United States over the winter.
4-H Executive Directory, Lyndon Stewart, says that the 4-H club has branched out in to many different themes, not just beef and dairy. They have new clubs such as fishing, photography, dancing, etc.
“The goal of the 4-H is not just to get the kids involved in things such as farming or fishing but to teach them leadership skills and to meet new people.”
The kids got to play with some real pieces of meteorites, make “moon dust” designs in glass jars and create space ships and planets out of old CD’s and Styrofoam balls. They also wrote messages and put them inside helium balloons, which they released over the Oxdrift Hall. They hope someone will find them and reply to their messages.
Since 2005 4-H Ontario Discovery Days have been made possible thanks to the generous sponsorship of the Ontario Cattlemen’s Association.
2009 Dream Dinner Lottery winners announced!
(June 2, 2009) The Grand prize winner of dinner for two anywhere in the world including two return
economy air tickets, all pre-collected taxes, return airport transfers at the arrival of destination, two
nights accommodations for two in a deluxe hotel, all taxes and services included, AND dinner for two
at a gourmet restaurant plus $500 additional spending money was announced at the Ontario 4-H
Foundation Golf-East Tournament held at Emerald Links Golf & Country Club in Manotick on June 2,
2009.
Local 4-H member raises champion
There's much more to raising a successful steer than many people might imagine. Equal portions of hard work, time and effort need to combine with the best suitable animal for it to be considered a champion.
Manitoulin, Region 1 Discovery Day
Discovery day started out cool and later warmed up for a beautiful day on Manitoulin Island. After registration and handing out t-shirts, water bottles and bags with booklets we were off and running. With 38 kids we had a full day starting with games with our 4-H Ambassadors Bruce Betzner and Olivia Groniger, horse grooming, and dress-up races on horseback.
4-H Explorers ready to blast off at Region 5 Discovery Day
(Walkerton, ON) Blast off was scheduled to begin for Region 5 “Out of this World” Discovery Day at 10 a.m. in the morning. A large group of 64 explorers were ready to take off and test what 4-H had to offer!
Region 3 4-H members discover the world of 4-H and beyond!
(COLD SPRINGS, ON) Over 45 youth from East Central Ontario gathered in Cold Springs on June 6th for an "Out of this World" experience at Region 3 Discovery Day. This opportunity enabled 4-H members and their friends, ages 10-12, to explore the diversity of the 4-H program, while the 2009 "Out of this World" theme allowed the participants to learn about the universe beyond 4-H and life on Earth! It was a great way to celebrate 4-H activities and 2009's Year of Astronomy.
P.A. 4-H Beef Show & Sale (Alberta)
The Prince Albert 4-H Finished Beef Show and Sale wrapped up on Monday evening.
The Grand Champion steer was a Charolais cross owned by Litney Curran of the Wild Rose 4-H Beef Club. The steer weighed 1348 pounds and sold for a price of $4.50 a pound. The buyers were the P.A. Co-op and Davidner's Western Wear.
The Reserve Grand Champion Steer was a 1280 pound Angus shown by Amy Wilson of the West P.A. 4-H Beef Club. The price was $2.85 and the buyer was Davidner's. The sale average with champions was $1.72 a pound . . . without champions $1.68. The six participating clubs also had a charity steer. It sold for a price of $2800 to Napa Auto Parts. All of the money went to Habitat for Humanity.
The Grand Champion Female was shown by Colleen Robertson of the Weldon 4-H Beef Club. Carrissa Watson from the Choiceland 4-H Beef Club owns the Maine-Anjou that took the Reserve Grand Champion Female banner.
A total of 200 4-H members participated in the Prince Albert event on Sunday and Monday.
Region 6 Discovery Day
(Glencoe, ON) The weather and atmosphere was more than “out of this world” at the Region 6 4-H
Discovery Day, that took place at the Glencoe Space Centre. With a combination of over 100 4-H
astronauts (members) and volunteers, the energy was buzzing all day as members rotated through six
stations exploring the 4-H Ontario program and outer space.
JFAO Marks 65 Years with Reunion and Fundraising Golf Tournament
JFAO’s annual charity golf tournament fundraiser leads off a celebration on Saturday August 15th of 65 years of leadership and networking opportunities for Ontario youth age 15-29. The anniversary weekend celebrations tee off with a noon shotgun start at Hockley Valley Resort, followed by a reunion banquet and dance at the Orangeville Fairgrounds. A spa treatment option is being offered for those who don’t wish to golf before the afternoon social time gets underway.
4-H program huge success!
By: Mr. Productions on 5/22/2009 1:42:47 PM
The Young Worker Awareness Program hosted by the Sudbury District 4-H Association in Sudbury on May 3rd was a great success!
The purpose of the day was to inform youth about their basic rights in the workplace. Mr. Guido Chezzi, presenter from the I.A.P.A., spoke frankly with the youth.
Region 4 Discovery Day at Beamsville Fairgrounds
4-H Ontario’s regional Discovery Days offer junior 4-H members the perfect chance to interact with other members in a fun and exciting environment. Discovery Days are designed to introduce team-building concepts to members (and their friends) aged 10-12 years old.
Region 4 area covers: Brant, Dufferin, Haldimand, Halton, Niagara, Norfolk, Peel, Simcoe North, Simcoe South, Waterloo, Wellington and Wentworth. This year, Region 4’s first Discovery Day was held at the Beamsville Fairgrounds on May 16, 2009.
Select 'read more' for a re-cap of the day’s events by 4-H member and participant Maggie Kyle as well as comments from other participants.
4-H Ontario volunteer Henry Helder recognized with tree planting
Henry Helder, one of the 2009 Syngenta 4-H Ontario Arbor Award recipients, tree planting ceremony took place at the Aylmer Christian Reformed Church on May 16, 2009.
Select 'read more' for the press release.
Boys & Girls Club members take part in 4-H cooking course
Photos by Michael Lea (mlea@thewhig.com) used with permission.
Club hopes partnership will be a recipe for success!
By Gloria Er-Chua - gerchua@thewhig.com
(Reprinted with permission)
The Boys and Girls Club of Kingston may soon become a hotspot for culinary lovers, thanks to the 4-H club.
RBC Royal Bank 4-H Rural/Urban Youth Outreach Program
(KINGSTON) The Frontenac 4-H Association was successful in receiving a grant of $3800 to reach out to non-traditional areas and bring the 4-H experience to youth who may not have otherwise had an opportunity to be a part of 4-H. This is a pilot project and from the enthusiastic response so far it is hoped to become sustainable for Kingston youth.
Youth Leaders Energized for Change
(Guelph, ON - May 1, 2009) - Fifty high school students from across Ontario are geared up to make a Bushel Basket of Change in their communities after their participation in the three-day 4-H Greenbelt Youth Forum.
The Forum, held at the YMCA Cedar Glen facility in Bolton from April 16-19th, integrated rural and urban high school students from across Ontario. Through facilitated discussions, group work, guest speakers and tours, the delegates developed leadership, public speaking and team work skills while concurrently exploring Greenbelt opportunities encompassing environmental stewardship, resource preservation, land use planning, and local food.
4-H Believes In Giving Back to the Community
By: Christopher Sutherland, Sudbury Clever Clovers 4-H News Reporter
Snuggle, Cuddle and Read, a program started by Faye Langlois, (mother of Paulette Macdonald, Sudbury District 4-H Association President and Sudbury Clever Clovers volunteer Leader), is a retired teacher, from Pembroke, ON. The Snuggle, Cuddle and Read program provides a book, teddy bear and an afghan to children from needy families. The program, having 15 to 20 volunteers, finished 500 gift bags in the 1st year, which were donated to local charities in the Pembroke/Renfrew areas. She accepts donations of books, teddy bears, afghans and wool in mint condition and from non-smoking environments. Mrs. Langlois bundles everything in hand-sewn, homemade gift bags/pouches.
This year, Mrs. Langlois had an excess of afghans, hand made bags, teddy bears, and books. She graciously gave it all to the Sudbury Clever Clovers, so that they could introduce the Snuggle, Cuddle and Read program in Sudbury. Our Members then spent an afternoon assembling the gift bags for donation to YWCA Genevra House; a shelter for women in the Sudbury region and their children.
Genevra House is a 32 bed residence providing a secure and welcoming environment for women and their children. It is currently operating at full capacity. The Sudbury Clever Clovers 4-H Club was pleased to be able to donate, in person, a total of 40 gift bags, recently.
Our President, Ryan Macdonald, spokesperson for The Sudbury Clever Clovers, explained 4-H’s philosophy of reaching out to the Community to some of the staff at Genevra House.
Ms. Ginette Demers, Manager, and 2 other staff members, Christina and Line Bradly were on hand to receive the gift bags. They were very pleased to be able to give the children, (toddlers to teenagers), something of their very own, as most of them had to leave all their belongings behind when they fled from abusive relationships.
Oh, what a feeling knowing the work that we did would be so appreciated by so many who are in need. Hopefully, we can contribute again next year.
4-H Club stronger than ever
Amanda Stafford's pet isn't allowed in the house; she also isn't interested in chasing around a ball.
For half a year, the 16-year-old and 30 other youth in the Orillia area devote a large portion of their time taking care of small, fluffy calves.
Western Fair 4-H Achievers
Rebecca Grose and Cameron Towers were named 4-H Achievers of the Year for Western Ontario.
Congratulations! Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program's Class 12 Graduates
[London, ON] - It is ironic that in the US, graduation ceremonies are called commencement. Or perhaps it is the truth. So began the oration of JD Dunbar, guest speaker at the Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program’s Class 12 graduation on Saturday April 4, 2009 in London, ON.
CYSA Prepares for 2009 Competition - New Topics & 25th Anniversary Celebration Announced!
Do you have a passion for the agriculture industry? Are you between the ages of 11 and 24 and looking for an opportunity to share your enthusiasm with others? If you answered yes, don't miss out on the 25th Annual Canadian Young Speakers for Agriculture (CYSA) public speaking competition on November 7, 2009!
New JFAO Executive Set To Celebrate 65 Years
Nearly 100 members of the Junior Farmers' Association of Ontario launched celebrations of the organization's 65th anniversary with the instalment of the 2009 executive at their annual March Conference, this year held at the Festival Inn in Stratford. While all from rural communities, the members of the new executive have roots across the province and bring a wide range of skills from on and off the farm. This year they will work to further the mission of building future rural leaders while celebrating the achievements of those who built the organization through past decades.
Congratulations Geoff Innes - The best of the best in Oxford!
The surprise award at this year's Oxford County Federation of Agriculture Awards of Excellence went to a longtime community volunteer. The community service award - the only OCFA award whose finalists aren't announced well ahead of the awards banquet - went to longtime 4-H and farm safety volunteer Geoff Innes.
Ontario 4-H Council Directors & Ontario 4-H Foundation Trustees
For a complete listing of Directors & Trustees please select 'read more.'
2009 Syngenta 4-H Ontario Arbor Award Winners
“4-H Ontario volunteers are passionate and dedicated individuals essential to the delivery and success of the Ontario 4-H program.”
The Syngenta 4-H Ontario Arbor Award is presented to 4-H volunteers who have made a difference to 4-H in Ontario. Recipients are recognized for the significant leadership, initiative and positive impact they have made on 4-H as well as by their involvement in other community activities and organizations.
Winners announced at 2009 Conference and Annual Meeting
Winners of several competitions were announced at the 4-H Ontario Volunteer Conference and Annual Meeting in late February. Our thanks to all participants!
SCRAPBOOK COMPETITION:
1. Oxford; 2. Lennox & Addington; 3. Prince Edward
Participants: Frontenac, Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes-Haliburton, Norfolk, and North Simcoe.
Special Mention to Shonna Ward for her Council Scrapbook.
NEWSLETTER COMPETITION:
1. Chatham-Kent; 2. Huron; 3. Durham East
Participants: Oxford, Leeds, Peel and Essex
LOCALLY SUBMITTED PROJECT COMPETITION:
1. Renfrew – Square Dancing project; 2. Waterloo – Pizza project; 3. Oxford – Rise and Shine project
Special Mention to: Norfolk for their Pie Please project and Grenville for the Dairy Fitting project.
SCRAPBOOK PAPER COMPETITION:
1. Linda Werkman, Niagara; 2. Adriana Van Oostveen, Oxford; 3. Jessica Holder, Wellington
2009 4-H Ontario Ambassadors selected
4-H Ontario is proud to announce that six enthusiastic 4-H members will represent 4-H across the province as part of the popular Ambassador program. The successful candidates will spend the next year promoting 4-H across the province, instilling enthusiasm amongst those already involved and encouraging new members and volunteers to take part. Congratulations to Bruce Betzner, Olivia Groniger, Morgan Kluka, Ashley Pulver, Cory Ward and Stephanie Warner on their accomplishment!
Continuing the Royal Legacy - 4-H style!
Dog shows, livestock shows and a junior tractor rodeo, live performances, barbeques, milkshakes and pancakes. Sounds something like an event put on by your local 4-H organization right? Well these types of events are usually part of the 4-H lifestyle, and have been for over 90 years, but 4-H is not organizing this one. So where can you find all these great family activities in one place this March? The answer just might surprise you.
The Canadian Energy Expo joins forces with COFS
Canada's Outdoor Farm Show is pleased to announce that it has acquired the Woodstock-based Canadian Energy Expo and will merge this new acquisition with its existing Sustainable Energy Expo.
"Even though the Canadian Energy Expo and the Sustainable Energy Expo were both vibrant, stand-alone events, it was only logical to combine the two Shows in order to grow this very important energy component of Canada's Outdoor Farm Show," says Coral Defayette, Co-ordinator for Park Logistics and Programming. The combined Shows will facilitate more exhibits and demonstrations around emerging energy technologies, conservation and awareness programs.
4-H club gets provincial recognition
Posted By ELLWOOD SHREVE
A local 4-H Club is featured in the winter issue of the Ontario 4-H Magazine.
Dawne Mudford, leader of the Wallaceburg Canoe and Kayak Club, said the article is about the club working with local special populations children to teach them how to kayak.
She said Cindy McFadden, who leads the Chatham-Kent special populations program, called and asked if her club would be willing to work some kids in the program.
Noting she has some short, wide kayaks perfectly suited for teaching, Mudford recruited some volunteers from her club who spent a week in July working one-on-one with the kids in the shallow waters of Mitchell's Bay.
The program was dubbed Kayaking -- Kids Helping Kids.
4-H sets up for new season
100 MILE HOUSE FREE PRESS
By Carole Rooney - 100 Mile House Free Press
Published: January 20, 2009 7:00 PM
Get your piglets plumped and your rabbits ready; it’s 4-H time again!
The local 4-H clubs are warming up their barns for the new season and held their sign-up day on Jan. 18 for current members.
The official club deadline is actually April 1, although local clubs do prefer current members to re-enroll in January. Applications from new members, or new clubs starting up, are accepted 365 days a year according to 4-H policy.
All kinds of benefits come from 4-H membership and the aspects cover more than you might know at first glance.
Greenbelt - Seeking Students for Unique Rural-Urban Leadership Program
4-H Ontario and Me to We, a division of Free the Children, are seeking rural and urban high school students in grades ten and eleven for the second annual Greenbelt Youth Forum.
The Forum, to be held at the YMCA Camp Cedar Glen near Bolton from April 16-20th, brings together rural and urban students from high schools within the Greenbelt. Through facilitated discussions, group work, workshops, guest speakers and tours, the students work together to explore a variety of issues such as environmental stewardship, resource preservation, land use planning, and local food.
Applications are available on the 4-H Ontario website at http://www.4-hontario.ca/greenbelt.aspx or by calling (519) 824-0101. Applications are due March 1, 2009. A $75 fee applies and covers costs of rooms, food, resources and bus tours.
Advanded Ag Leadership Program (AALP)
The Advanced Agricultural Leadership Program (AALP) is an executive development opportunity for men and women actively involved in Ontario's agriculture, food industry and rural communities. Its aim is to provide our industry's future leaders with the skills, knowledge, broad perspective and positive attitude needed for the future of the agriculture and agri-food sector. AALP is delivered by The Centre for Rural Leadership.
We are seeking individuals who have: A commitment to the future of the agri-food industry and have the potential to give back to their organization, sector or community after the program; Demonstrated leadership potential in past activities; Open-mindedness and vision; Broad interest in agricultural and societal issues; and involvement in farm, rural community or industry organizations
Applications for the next class (Class 13) are now available and due March 13, 2009.
BDO - 4-H Canada Artwork Contest Winners
Winners, Danielle, age 11, of Thamesford, Ontario & Jon, age 13, of Virten, Manitoba.
BDO would like to thank all the 4-H members, parents and leaders for their hard work and effort to create and submit such wonderful pieces of art for our first national BDO/4-H Art Contest. It was exciting to see what everyone drew and we can't wait to see what's in store for next year.
participACTION & SOGO
ParticipACTION has partnered with Coca-Cola Canada to increase the levels of physical fitness of youth across the country. Through the SOGO Active Campaign, youth can log onto the youth friendly SOGO Active website www.sogoactive.com/youth/index.jsf, find peers, places and resources to get active and, by becoming more active, also become eligible to be one of the 1,000 youth selected by Coca-Cola for Torchbearer spots on the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torch Relay. Grants are available for equipment, training, facility rental, etc. and it will allow the youth themselves help youth to get more active.
Ontario Holsteins, Eastern Breeders Inc. & 4-H
Holstein Ontario will be working in partnership with Eastern Breeders Inc. (EBI) and 4-H Ontario to introduce the first Eastern Ontario Junior 4-H Show at the Spencerville Fairgrounds, July 3 and 4. The two-day event will be open to all dairy calf club members 10 - 13 years of age, as of January 1, 2009 who are registered in the counties of the Eastern Ontario Holstein District. This show is designed as an educational and fun event to be held in conjunction with the 30th edition of the EBI 4-H Showcase (July 3 to 5).
Peterborough Awards night
The Peterborough County 4-H Association held its annual awards and recognition program on Nov. 28. This evening is to recognize the volunteers and members for their involvement and achievement in 4-H this past year.
4-H Ontario Hits the Open Road!
The staff at 4-H Ontario will be rolling on 4 wheels - thanks to a five-way partnership anchored by Canada's Outdoor Farm Show (COFS) and Toyota Canada Inc. (TCI). The wheels, used to hit the roads to promote 4-H Ontario, will be on a Toyota Tundra.
A lesson on the 4-H Program
Chatham Daily News (ON)
Fri 12 Dec 2008
I'm sure all of us have heard of 4-H. But do many, especially those of us raised in the city, know much about the 4-H program?
First of all, what are the four Hs? They stand for head, heart, hands, and health. The 4-H pledge states that "I pledge my head to clearer thinking, my heart to greater loyalty, my hands to larger service and my health to better living for my club, my community and my country." 4-H members begin their meetings, banquets and other functions reciting this pledge together.
4-H leader attends national conference
The Upper LaHave resident became involved with the organization a decade ago when her son was invited to join the Wileville-based Hill 'n' Dale club to pursue a somewhat unusual interest.
"It started when Benjamin started with 4-H. A friend of his suggested he join for floriculture because he liked to do flowers," she recalls. "So the second year he did 4-H, he took foods, and the leader quit partway through the year. The general leader and I took it on to do it that year and it just progressed from there."
Floyd quickly learned there is far more to 4-H than farming, with the organization offering over 40 different projects for youth spanning a wide spectrum of interests.
"A lot of them are life skills," she explains. "For example, most clubs emphasize public speaking, but ours really does. Any teacher will tell you they can pick the 4-H kids out, just because they're more confident, they've practiced speaking, and that kind of thing."
Floyd says the Hill 'n' Dale club boasts 38 members in the nine-to-21-year age group, as well as a number of Clover Buds, up-and-coming youth ages seven to nine who are being groomed for regular membership.
"What they do with the younger ones is … if they have a meeting a month, each month they will hit a different project so the kids get a taste of what they might like to do later on," she explains.
Along with the youth members, the club boasts a total of 19 leaders, including Ms Floyd, who completed her 10th year of service in that capacity this fall.
To commemorate that milestone, she applied for and was accepted as one of seven leader delegates to represent Nova Scotia at the Annual 4-H National Volunteers Conference which was held in Toronto in early November.
Region 4 grabs gold at Provincial Go For The Gold competition!
After three preliminary games, a semi-final round and a nail-biting championship game the team from Region 4—representing Wellington County—grabbed gold at the 2008 Go For The Gold provincial championships held on November 8th at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair.
4-H skills build a life, last a lifetime
Melody Sanford faced her first 4-H clipping competition with a pair of scissors and a free-roaming sheep. This summer, she won what could be her last provincial competition with a junior partner, her cousin.
Friends of 4-H Fundraiser raises valuable funds for 4-H youth
Toronto, ON - Hundreds of 4-H Supporters gathered together Saturday, November 8, 2008, at the Royal
Agricultural Winter Fair, to raise valuable funds at the Friends of 4-H Fundraiser. The event organized by
Gencor and Dair y Farmers of Ontario, raised over $25,000 that will benefit 4-H youth across Ontario.
Alberta, Ontario speakers take top awards at CYSA national competiton
TORONTO, ON – Speakers from Alberta and Ontario took top prizes in this year’s Canadian Young
Speakers for Agriculture (CYSA) competition, held at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair.
Among 26 competitors from seven provinces, Kayla Getzinger of Stony Plain, Alberta, won the senior
category, with Sam Kloppenburg of Arva, Ontario, capturing the junior award.
Show Your 4-H Colours
November is national 4-H month. The head of the 4-H branch in Alberta, Marguerite Stark says the program continues to provide youth with the knowledge and skills to succeed in life. "I know that many 4-H alumni look fondly back on being a 4-H member", she says, "it is a wonderful program and we would hate to be Alberta's best kept secret and that's what we are. We really want to get the message out that 4-H is for all Alberta youth." Stark says the 4-H Branch expects to register over 7 thousand members this year. Interested young people can join a club before the end of the November. To launch national 4-H Month, Canadians were encouraged to support the program by wearing green on Wednesday.
Capture the 4-H Spirit
November is National 4-H Month and a time to celebrate how wide 4-H reaches and contributes to communities throughout New Brunswick.
The 4-H program promotes and encourages the growth and potential of New Brunswick’s greatest resource – its youth.
In the 2007-2008 year, the province's 4-H program had approximately 500 members, 150 volunteer leaders and many sponsors of 4-H who helped to contribute to agriculture, their communities and rural New Brunswick. From cows and woodworking to computers and the Internet, public speaking and parliamentary procedures, the 4-H program has been bringing leadership and development programs to New Brunswick young people for over 90 years, allowing them to make new friends, travel, try new things and learn new life skills. 4-H continues to be recognized as an excellent educational program that prepares youth for leadership roles in their communities and in the agriculture industry.
This month pays tribute to the youth, volunteer leaders and sponsors.
Contact Linda Porter, provincial 4-H co-ordinator, at 324-6244 to find out more about 4-H in the local area and help celebrate youth, agriculture and 4-H.
Go green – go 4-H!
Princess Elizabeth Women's Institute hold community involvement night
The October meeting of the Princess Elizabeth Women's Institute was held at Cassel Mennonite Church with 12 members and many community guests present. President, Sandra Stock, welcomed everyone and read a poem, "A Toast to Volunteers", written by a Women's Institute member in 1996.
Portage, Manitoba Is 4-H Central
Between 90 and 120 4-H leaders are at the Canad Inns in Portage, for tomorrow's Provincial Leaders' Conference.
It's the 9th time the conference has been held, and Director Cindy Charette stresses it's important for the leaders to get the information made available because they're working with young people to help realize their potential.
She says two keynote speakers will share their thoughts with the leaders -- Portage's Mark Essay and comedian Ian Tyson from Ontario.
Charette adds interactive are slated for the afternoon, where leaders are brought up to date on new resources and have a chance to exchange ideas and soluitons to problems.
Island 4-H participants excel at Royal Winter Fair
Island 4-H participants excel at Royal Winter Fair
STAFF - The Journal Pioneer
Prince Edward Island 4-H members turned in a strong showing during the 29th annual Canadian Classic Junior Dairy Show at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair in Toronto.
The fair was held over the past weekend.
The show featured 358 of Canada’s top dairy youth between the ages of 12 and 21 from 52 teams representing eight provinces. The teams worked together to produce top quality displays and compete in showmanship classes with their dairy calves.
Members of the Prince Edward Island 4-H team participated in the conformation classes, which included 50 to 104 calves. Jillian Tweedy placed 8th in the Intermediate Holstein Calf class, and Katelyn Tweedy placed 11th. In the Senior Calf class, Susan Frizzell won the 7th spot, and Kyle VanderKloet was 16th. Ashley Profitt’s entry was 23rd in the Summer Yearling class, and Kyle Jewell’s entry placed 20th in the Junior Yearling class.
The Island 4-H team was selected into the final 15 group from among the 52 teams represented. It also had a strong showing in the competition for best exhibit, being placed in the top third.
The Classic show is an opportunity for Canada’s dairy youth to showcase their talents and join with other 4-H members at a world class event.
Lobstick 4-H food drive
Well, it's that time of year again!
Lobstick 4-H will be going around the towns of Entwistle and Evansburg gathering donations of food and toys again for the local Food Bank.
We are moving it up one week this year to help the Food Bank judge the amount of food they will need. Please watch for our group going around town dropping off bags and picking them up. The dates this year will be Nov. 25 for drop off and Nov. 27 for pick up. If you have something to donate, please leave your front light on to let our members know to stop by. Dark houses will be avoided. If you are unable to donate on this day, and still want to make a contribution, feel free to drop off at the Co-operators in Evansburg or Servus Credit Union in Entwistle.
Youth from across Canada continue to excel at The Classic!
358 of Canada's top dairy youth from 52 teams across eight Canadian provinces took part in the 29th Annual Classic at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair on November 8 - 10, 2008. A walk through the barns allowed you to see the true meaning of 4-H: "Learn to Do by Doing".
To read the entire press release select 'read more'.
Northumberland 4-H dairy team wins top spot at the Royal
Posted By Brian Schuette
Toronto – A team of eight Northumberland 4-H members won the Premier Exhibitor award and the Bill Edelstein trophy for accumulating most overall points at the 29th annual Classic Canadian Junior Dairy Show in Toronto Nov. 9 and 10. This marks the second year in a row that Northumberland has won top honours at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair.
The eight junior dairy competitors ages 13 to 21 were Kristin and Michael Barnam, Edward O’Connor, Emma, Ethan and Morgan McMillan, and Bryce Seabourn, all from Campbellford, and Sarah Puffer from Morganston.
The dairy cattle exhibited were seven Holsteins and one Jersey. Herdsman Erin O’Connor, along with Joanna Linton, Richelle McDougall and Ken Heffernan accompanied the team to the show. Teams of eight totalling 374 competitors from all across Canada took part in the show. Judging was based on showmanship (how each person showed their calf), conformation (or how the animal itself looked), and the exhibit wherein each calf was tied up.
“They did a really good job on that, too,” 4-H director Teresa Jeffs said. “We won’t have our points results for a week or so, but they said we won by a fair margin.”
There was a large crowd in attendance at the coliseum with a boisterous cheering section from Northumberland supporters. “The kids were really nervous,” Jeffs said, “and right up until the end we didn’t know that we had won. When they announced first place, I think everyone was almost in shock, but very excited. It was an exciting moment to win up there. The group worked so well together and all their leaders and chaperons are very proud of them.”
Smart Farming Puts Safety First
Farming is a traditional way of life for many Canadians. Most farms in this country are family operations. When the home doubles as an industrial worksite, safety must always come first.
Every year farming mishaps lead to over 100 deaths and 1,500 serious injuries. Most of the fatalities are family members - 60 percent are owner-operators. In addition, an average of 12 children a year under age 10 are killed, and 110 are hospitalized. Death or a disabling injury is not only devastating, but can also mean giving up the farm.
Click 'read more' to learn about basic precautions, safety with tractors and machinery, and risks and precautions to take with SILO gas. Or visit the Canada Safety Council website at: www.safety-council.org.
Canada's Outdoor Farm Show opens September 9 - 11, 2008
Canada's Outdoor Farm Show promises to be both a busy time and financially rewarding experience for 4-H Ontario. From scooping ice cream cones in the dairy pavilion to promoting the amazing story of this outstanding youth development program, 4-H members, club leaders and alumni will be key partners in the 2008 edition of Canada's Outdoor Farm Show.
Cdn 4-H Council and Co-operators seeking nominees for Volunteer Leader of the Year Award
The Co-operators and the Canadian 4-H Council are asking 4-H members to nominate volunteer leaders for the annual The Co-operators / 4-H National Volunteer Leader of the Year Award. Nominations close at midnight on October 15, 2008.
4-H Ontario has its ROOTS in Agriculture
...so it is natural that we would be an Official Partner of the 4-H Field Crop Competition. We are proud of all the 4-H Members from across this province who have put their best foot forward
and participated in this year’s competition.
For 93 years 4-H Ontario has continued to “build leaders”.
With our head, heart, health and hands, we enable Learn To Do By Doing in the areas of agriculture, food, health, and environment to build competence, confidence, connection, character, and caring as the foundation of leadership within self and our Continue to explore our website to discover how you can get involved as a volunteer, member, sponsor or
donor. Contact us directly by phone at 1-877-410-6748 and our team will be happy to answer any of your questions and show you how easy it is to become a member of the 4-H family.
4-H Ontario Volunteer Recruitment and Screening Update
On behalf of 4-H Ontario and our Volunteer Recruitment and Screening Committee, we invite you to attend one of three teleconference meetings to discuss the 4-H Ontario Volunteer Recruitment and Screening Process.
We will be holding three identical teleconference meetings, please select one of the following dates and times to attend:
1. Wednesday, September 24th – 8:00 – 9:00 pm
2. Thursday, September 25th – 12:00 – 1:00 pm
3. Sunday, September 28th – 8:00 – 9:00 pm
For teleconference instructions, please select 'read more'.
2008 Harvest Balloon Tour coming to a sky near you!
Blenheim, ON [August 11, 2008] – Look up on August 16th as the bright yellow harvest balloon begins an eight-week tour across the Ontario skyline from its launch site in Blenheim. Sponsored by Hyland Seeds in conjunction with Farmers Feed Cities! and 4-H Ontario, the 65 foot tall hot air balloon will soar through the sky to draw attention to the vital role of agriculture to all Ontarians.
New Record broken at the 2008 Inter-County 4-H Dairy Cattle Judging Competition
On Tuesday, July 29, 2008, the 19 annual Inter-County 4-H Dairy Judging Competition was held at the new Stratford Rotary Complex with 80 dairy calf club 4-H members from across the province taking part in this educational and competitive day.
As the room eagerly awaited the results from the senior division, Ontario Branch Secretary Manager Jason French commented that never before has one participant placed eight perfect classes with one single switch in the ninth. Will Pulfer from Peterborough County did just that and along with his teammate Justin Crowley as well as Craig Templeton and Kendra Cavanagh from Carleton County will represent Ontario at the National 4-H Dairy Cattle Judging Competition that will be held in Madison, Wisconsin during the World Dairy Expo.
4-H Clubs ready to show their stuff at Napanee Fair
With the fair only two days away, the Napanee Fairgrounds looked nearly as busy as opening day with volunteers preparing grounds, displays, buildings, fences, tracks, benches, and food booths. In the background was the sound of mid-way workers setting up rides, games, and still more food concessions.
4-H members join conservation efforts
BY MARIE PEART, Haldimand 4-H Association
A group of 4-H members and leaders met at the Bassindale Wetlands Project on Saturday, June 21, to lend a hand planting trees. This is a joint conservation project of Ducks Unlimited, Wetland Habitat Fund, Long Point Region Conservation Authority, Haldimand Woodlot Owners Association and the Haldimand Stewardship Council.
The property adjacent to Selkirk Provincial Park is owned by Harold and Howard Bassindale. They have donated about 30 acres of woodlot and wetlands which are being transformed into a natural habitat for local wildlife.
Under the enthusiastic direction of Kelly Tonellato from the Ministry of Natural Resources the volunteers planted 93 trees and 5 pounds of seed. Kelly, along with Howard and Harold gave us a tour of the project and explained the work that has been done since the beginning of the project.
Thanks to 4-H members, Katie Fletcher, Lyndsey Fletcher, Jacqueline McMillan, Matthew Murray, Kaleisha Rossin, and Lynden Rossin for donating their time and energy. 4-H Leaders Kirk Fletcher and Marie Peart, and Haldimand Stewardship member Dan Romanowski were also on hand to help out.
For more information on this or other conservation projects please contact Kelly Tonellato, Haldimand Stewardship Coordinator at 905-772- 1393. If you would like to know more about 4-H in Haldimand County please telephone Lee Killman at 905-768-2719.
New Sponsors announced for the Scotiabank Classic Canadian Dairy Youth Show
Ontario Holsteins has announced the new sponsors of the Scotiabank Classic Canadian Dairy Youth Show for the upcoming year and beyond. The Royal Winter Fair has secured TD Canada Trust as a major sponsor along with additional sponsorship with Kubota Canada, Holstein Canada and Semex. These four companies will be featured as sponsors at different levels due to their financial contribution to the show and the youth events at the Royal.
For 2008, the show will be named The "Classic", Canadian Junior Dairy Show and will hold that name until further notice.
4-H Ontario Dream Dinner Lottery winners announced!
The Grand prize winner of the 4-H Ontario Dream Dinner Lottery was announced at the Ontario 4-H Foundation Golf-East Tournament held at Emerald Links on June 3, 2008.
Our congratulations go to Randy Casselman of Winchester, Ontario!
Second Prize went to Scott Reid of Dunnville, ON.
Third prize was won by John Parks of Amherstburg.
Two early bird draws were also held with the first draw on February 23 won by Dave Eastman of Georgetown, ON, while the second draw on May 29, 2008 was won by Don McNiven of Fergus, ON.
Congratulations to all the winners.
For more information click on read more to obtain the news release.
Tour de Greenbelt - a 'fresh air festival on wheels'
Greenbelt Foundation invites Ontarians to a family fun 'green' adventure across the Greenbelt
(Toronto) The Friends of the Greenbelt Foundation announced the first Tour de Greenbelt,an innovative and exciting opportunity for Ontarians and visitors to bicycle their way through open air adventure in Ontario's Greenbelt.
Orillia 4-H preparing for new fun-filled year
The Orillia Calf Club is getting ready for another year of fun. The Orillia Calf Club has had two meetings, at Rugby Hall, and the second one at Medonte Highlands on Monday, April, 28. At the first meeting, the members elected the club executives, and the second meeting they talked about farm safety. The club members learned the do's and don'ts of tractors, and also played safety games. The members were also lucky to have a guest speaker, Murray Hill, who talked to them about safety while riding on a tractor. The members of the Orillia Calf Club would like to give a big thank-you to Murray Hill for speaking to them about farm safety.
The Orillia Calf Club has had a nice turnout of 33 members at the past two meetings. The Calf Club has some new members in both the beef and dairy side of showing.
The next meeting will be held at Whitmore Meat Packers, with guest speaker Ian Webb on Monday, May, 26, at 7:30 p.m.
Alta Junior Challenge June 27-29, 2008
Open to youth from the Maritimes, Quebec and Ontario.
Where: Richmond, QC
For more information please click on the link.
Dairy Youth Award Winners Announced
Cambridge, ON May 8, 2008 – The Ontario Dairy Youth Award selection committee is
pleased to announce the winners of the Ontario Dairy Youth Award for 2008.
This year marks the 29th year of the competition, initiated in 1980 to recognize young people aged 25-
35 who are actively involved in operating a dairy farm, who have demonstrated leadership, and taken
an active role in their communities and within their breed.
It's About TIME: CAFA's 4th Annual Ontario Provincial Conference
GUELPH, ON, April 25 /CNW/ - The Canadian Association of Farm Advisors (CAFA) Inc. is holding its 4th Annual Ontario Provincial conference at the Holiday Inn, Guelph on June 3rd and 4th.
The title of this year's event is Outlook 2008: It's about TIME: Technology, Innovation, Marketing & Exporting. The Canadian Farm Business Management Council (CFBMC) will also be there hosting their Innovation Day and AGM.
POGS tackle issue of overdevelopment in the Greenbelt
(BOLTON, ON) This April 3-6th , students from grades 10-11 living within rural and urban areas of Ontario's Greenbelt gathered at the YMCA Camp Cedar Glen to discuss and be educated on environmental issues. Through presentations, guest speakers, factual and literal exposure, the students were encouraged to acknowledge and consider those environmental realities within their area.
Government of Canada helps develop rural leaders of the future
STRATFORD, Ontario, April 22, 2008 - The Government of Canada knows our rural communities are the stewards of our future and this Government is ensuring they continue to be bastions of opportunity. We are investing $1.1 million to provide leadership and learning opportunities to the next generation of agricultural leaders.
The 2008 Canadian Living Me to We Awards - deadline to submit April 25th!
Every year the Me to We Awards celebrate five individuals who, through their selfless acts of compassion, have changed the lives of others and made a difference in their community. These are everyday Canadians who are living the Me to We philosophy by putting "we" before "me".
Do you know an ordinary Canadian who is making a difference in the lives of others? Are they a friend, family member, teacher or just an unsung hero next door? Help us shine the spotlight on their amazing work and tell us their story. Nominate them today for the 2008 Me to We Awards!
Canadian Association of Farm Advisors (CAFA) 4th Annual Ontario Provincial Conference
Outlook 2008: It's about TIME - Technology Innovation Marketing Exporting
Wednesday, June 4, 2008 at the Holiday Inn, Guelph, Ontario
For more information select "read more".
Ontario Mutual Insurance Association (OMIA) invests $62,000 in 2008
Shared commitment to working together
(Toronto) The Ontario Mutual Insurance Association (OMIA) on behalf of Ontario’s mutual insurance
companies, commonly referred to as the “farm mutuals”, has provided $62,000 to support local,
regional and provincial 4-H initiatives in Ontario for the 2008 year – as a top level, Summit Club
Partner.
2008 Ontario Outstanding Young Farmers
(Guelph, ON – March 5, 2008) London, Ontario was all a ‘buzz’ on Tuesday March 4 as Chris
and Christy Hiemstra, of Clovermead Bees and Honey in Aylmer (www.clovermead.com) were
recognized as Ontario’s Outstanding Young Farmers (OOYF) for 2008.
2008 Ambassadors selected!
Six enthusiastic 4-H members were successful in becoming 4-H Ontario’s 2008 Ambassadors at the 4-H Ontario Conference and Annual Meeting on February 23rd. 2008 marks the fourth year of the increasingly popular program which is made possible thanks to the generous support of sponsors GROWMARK Inc. and UPI Energy LP. The successful candidates will spend the next year promoting 4-H across the province, instilling enthusiasm amongst those already involved with the program and encouraging new members and volunteers to take part.
Congratulations to Lesleigh Elgie, Jaclyn Hutton, Kelsey Miller, Stephanie Neubrand, Julia Smith, and Justin Williams on their accomplishment!
Ontario 4-H Foundation announces 2008 grants from Endowment Fund
Winners named in annual The Co-operators/4-H National Volunteer Leader of the Year Award!
"National Winner, June Switzer of Ontario"
June Switzer of Hillsburgh, ON was named the National Leader of the Year.
"Leaders are the foundation of the 4-H program," says Kathy Bardswick, President and CEO of the Co-operators. "These unsung hereos who give one of the most precious resources - their time - in order to help develop our youth deserve to be recognized."
FCC & Canadian 4-H Council launch 'Join Again' campaign
Head.
Heart.
Hands.
Health.
Help Wanted.
Right now, 4-H needs volunteers to work with youth in
your area. We also need you to encourage neighbours
and co-workers to do the same. Join for the projects, for
the competitions, for everything that helped you get
where you are today.
Friends of 4-H Fundraiser gives back to 4-H Ontario
(September 19, 2007) Eastern Breeders Inc., who in partnership with Ontario Holstein, Jersey Ontario, Dairy Farmers of Ontario and Ayrshire Ontario, coordinated and hosted this years edition of the Friends of 4-H Fundraiser with a BBQ dinner, dance, silent and live auction in early July, presented 4-H Ontario with a cheque for $47,461.41 at the 100th Anniversary of Extension celebrations held during the International Plowing Match in Crosby.
Partnership creates great learning opportunity for greenbelt youth
In the spring, 200 high school youth from across Ontario's Greenbelt are going to be delving into an innovative program being developed by 4-H Ontario with support from the Friends of the Greenbelt Foundation.
For further details check out the press release section.
Audited Council Financial Statements 2006
To access the 2006 audited Council financial statements please select "read more".
Audited Foundation Financial Statements 2006
To access the 2006 Audited Foundation Financial Statements please select "read more".
4-H Ontario Fundraiser: 'Staying Safe in a Wired World
4-H Ontario is pleased to announce its new fundraising partnership with Rob Nickel. Rob has written the book 'Staying Safe in a Wired World - a parents guide to internet safety'. Rob Nickel is a Cyber-Safety Expert, Professional Speaker and author dediated to helping children stay safe on the interet.
Make a difference - buy a book! Access donation form located to the right.
2007 Dream Dinner Lottery Winners announced
Congratulations to Grand Prize Winner Keith Austin of Elora, ON!
OMIA Summit Club partner of 4-H Ontario
(Guelph) 4-H Ontario continues to move forward thanks to key sponsor partners that lead by example and invest into the health of Ontario's communities. The Ontario Mutual Insurance Association (OMIA)on behalf of its 45 Farm Mutuals across Ontario has provided $62,000 in cash plus in-kind support for the 2007 year: as a top level, Summit Club Partner.
For further details check out the press release section.