Day Dreaming About Spring, Already??

Pledge your hands to larger service this SPRING and join us at the Alberta 4-H Centre for the FortisAlberta Work Bee Weekend!

The FortisAlberta Work Bee Weekend at the Alberta 4-H Centre will be held May 9 - 11, 2014.

4-H members, clubs and volunteers can come out in full force to the Centre to help clean up the site and mark the start of spring. Volunteers will work to help site staff prepare the Alberta 4-H Centre to host a variety of exciting provincial 4-H programs.

The weekend is filled with cleanup activities, fun games, site exploring and team building exercises.

Any club or volunteers interested in registering can contact Andrea McFadden, 4-H Foundation of Alberta, 1.877.682.2153 or email: McFadden@4hab.com.

Visit the Foundation at 4-H Alberta Leaders' Conference 2014

Please be sure to stop by the 4-H Foundation of Alberta Sharefair booth and learn about our Corporate Partners and what's new and exciting with the Foundation this year!

Corporate Partnership Support Packages

The Foundation is asking that all Clubs, Districts and Regional Representatives remember to stop by the Foundation Sharefair booth to pick up the Corporate Partnership Support Packages. 

4-H Alberta is fortunate to receiving funding from several Corporate Partners.  Clubs, Districts and Regions that submitted their sponsorship form with their registration will receive applicable dollars as they become available. 

Pick Up Process:

• Stop by the booth and ask for the Corporate Partnerships Support Package (provide official club name, district or region)
• Regional Packages to be picked up by either: Regional Council Member or Regional Specialists
• District Packages to be picked up by either: District Council Member of Key Leader
• Club Packages to be picked up by either: Club Leader or Key Leader
• Each person picking up the package will be required to sign a pick up form

Following pick up, your club, district or region should:

• Send Thank You's for support received through the 4-H Foundation of Alberta and encourage all those in attendance to send a thank you as well
• Display sponsor banners (provided in packages) at the appropriate sponsored event plus recognize their support in the local media
• Send an invitation for a Corporate Partner Representative to attend the applicable event
• Send a wrap up report (1 - 2 paragraphs) regarding how provided return on investment for your sponsor dollars to partners@4hab.com  

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CHECK OUT OUR 4-H SOUVENIR ITEMS

AT LEADERS’ CONFERENCE SHAREFAIR AREA

 4-H Alberta Gifts and Awards

4-H Foundation of Alberta

RR #1 Westerose AB TOC 2VO

Phone: 1.877.682.2153 | Fax: 780.682.3784 | Email: foundation@4hab.com

http://www1.agric.gov.ab.ca/$department/deptdocs.nsf/all/4h1080/$FILE/AwardsGiftsCatalog.pdf

 

Why is 4-H Great? Valleyview 4-H District Knows Why!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The fourth annual "Why 4-H is Great" concert was held on November 14, 2013, and exceeded all expectations becoming one of the most successful "Why 4-H is Great" concerts to date - raising the highest number of dollars! Gord Bamford rocked the stage in Valleyview at the local Polar Palace, thrilling the audience with an outstanding event that is sure to be on Valleyview residents' minds for years to come!

 

"I have been living and breathing "Why 4-H is Great" for the past 6 and a half months," says Sherry Howey, Chair of the Gord Bamford Concert Planning Committee. "Let me tell you, I have been schooled in "Why 4-H is Great"! The best people on earth are part of this organization, the youth, their families, the businesses associated with this club are the best there is! I am humbled by the drive, determination and follow through the members, clubs, and all associated showed in bringing about our Gord Bamford Concert. You are the best! Thank you!" Approximately 200 4-H members, leaders, and their families volunteered their time to help make this event a success, working tirelessly to promote the concert and sell tickets, plan and organize and perfect every detail of the event.   

 

"It was great to be a part of the "Why 4-H is Great" event again this year and I want to thank ATB Financial for their continued support of my music and 4-H Alberta," says Gord Bamford. "The hard work and group participation that is instilled into the youth of 4-H really showed Valleyview where they raised the bar again this year by raising so much money. As a proud 4-H alumnus I just want to say thanks again to ATB Financial, 4-H Alberta and all those who came out to the show...great job by everyone!"

 

In addition to the fun with 4-H Alberta Alumni Gord Bamford, concert-goers also were able to enjoy some outstanding amateur home-ground 4-H talent.  Taryn Stauffer was selected as the winner of the 2013 "Why 4-H is Great" community concert musicians contest, with her prize being the honor of opening for Gord Bamford at the Valleyview Concert.  She sang 4 songs at the concert which she had written about life in Alberta. Born, raised and still residing near Tofield, Alberta, Taryn Stauffer developed a passion for music at an early age. Just 23 years old, she has composed over 40 of her own original songs, with many more in the works. 

 

Valleyview 4-H District was the 2013 "Why 4-H is Great" concert contest recipient, submitting the winning audio visual entry to the "Why 4-H is Great" Facebook page and receiving the most Facebook "likes". The annual "Why 4-H is Great" concert serves as a fundraiser for the local 4-H host district. "We would like to thank our partners, ATB Financial and Gord Bamford. Your commitment provides our 4-H grassroots with the opportunity to experience something unique and special," says Bruce Banks, CEO, 4-H Foundation of Alberta. "Thank you also to Valleyview 4-H District and all the dedicated volunteers who contributed so much to this event.  The resounding success of the 2013 "Why 4-H is Great" concert is a testament to the entire community of Valleyview." Over the past four years the partnership between ATB Financial, Gord Bamford and 4-H Alberta has raised over $68,000 for 4-H districts in Alberta. 

 

The community of Valleyview will remember this event as one filled with 4-H spirit and pride, fun and generosity. "The excitement the concert created in Valleyview is too big to contain! We receive a tonne of love for 4-H and for ATB Financial. Our community is already requesting an encore performance for next year!" says Linley Coward, Branch Manager of Valleyview ATB Financial.

 

A total of 1,278 tickets were sold for the 2013 "Why 4-H is Great" concert, with all proceeds benefitting the Valleyview 4-H District.  This year, through concert ticket sales, a total of $31,150 was fundraised by clubs in the Valleyview 4-H District.  The Valleyview 4-H District council will be accepting proposals for funding requests from 4-H clubs in the area to determine how the "Why 4-H is Great" money is to be used. An additional $5,000 was raised at the concert, with the auction of front-row seats to the highest bidder as a fundraiser.   

 

Thank You to Calgary Region Clubs and Wheatland 4-H District!

On October 30, 2013 the Wheatland District, with help from the Calgary Region, led 4-H Alberta in celebrating great alignments with the 3rd Annual Corporate Partnerships Appreciation Evening at the Strathmore Civic Centre.

 

This year's event was focused on the theme "Growing on 96 Years" where clubs were able to take our Corporate Partners on a journey of where 4-H has been and where 4-H in Alberta is "Growing".  Corporate Sponsors also were shown "a year in the life of..." various 4-H projects through showcases that focused on some of the great agriculture related initiatives and other unique projects that have helped to shape a great 96 years in Alberta. 

 

Thank you to the Airdrie Beef and Sheep 4-H Club, Arrow Wood River Wranglers, Bow Valley Bandits 4-H Light Horse Club, Central Beiseker 4-H Club, Cheadle 4-H Club, Crowfoot Multi 4-H Club, Jumping Pound 4-H Beef, Midnight Express 4-H Horse Club, Strathmore 4-H Multi Club and the Swalwell 4-H Beef Club for showing their projects in this year's showcase.

Additional thanks to the following people for their efforts and support!

Speakers and Presenters

• Cassidy and Quin Sawyer - 4-H Pledge & 4-H Grace
• Jared, Justin and Alexis Couch - Growing on 96 Years
• Nicole Lamb - Overall 4-H Benefit
• Michael Brewin, Erin Warrack and Sabrina Kooistra - Cheadle 4-H Club - The Story of "Hulk"
• Billie Comstock & Marshall Biskup - Archery Presentation
• Travis Hunter - Multi-species Judging
• Jacob Onyschuk - Benefits 4-H Brings to the Industry

Master of Ceremonies

• Dakota Townsend - Red Deer West 4-H Beef Club

4-H Alumni Helpers

• Myranda Stewart - 4-H Alberta Alumni, Cheadle 4-H Club & former 4-H Alberta Ambassador
• Tyler Bushfield - 4-H Alberta Alumni, Irricana 4-H Beef and Multi
• Pauline Chiacchia - 4-H Alberta Ambassador, Calgary 4-H Region

Special Thanks

• Norma Ansloos
• Michelle Lalonde, Wheatland 4-H District Key Leader

The contributions provided to 4-H Alberta that night by dedicated past and present 4-H members, parents and volunteers allowed our Corporate Partners to see and interact with the great program that is 4-H Alberta!

 

Thank you to all the Calgary Region clubs and the Wheatland District for hosting the 3rd Annual 4-H Alberta Corporate Partnerships Appreciation Event! We truly appreciate the support and for helping us to say thank you to 4-H Alberta Corporate Partners!

 

Please keep in mind that the 4th Annual Corporate Partnerships Appreciation Evening will be held again next fall in Strathmore, Alberta.  If you or your club would like to get involved please contact: Rae-Lee Pieschel by email: pieschel@4hab.com or phone: 587.999.2240.

 

Photo 1: 2013 4-H Alberta Corporate Partners

Photo 2: Swalwell 4-H Beef Club's Showcase 

Ram Canada "100 Scholarships for 100 years of 4-H in Canada" Program

Ottawa, ON - November 6, 2013 – The Chrysler Foundation has teamed up with 4-H Canada to sponsor one hundred scholarships valued at $1,000 each for 4-H members across Canada.

 

4-H scholarships provide opportunities for Canadian youth to further their education and expand their knowledge in support of the agriculture industry. Members also have opportunities to travel nationally and internationally on exchanges, participate in leadership conferences and apply for additional grants and awards. 4-H Canada works with all provinces to create clubs in local communities and has an exceptional track record of developing confident Canadian leaders.

 

4-H youth from across Canada are eligible to apply for the scholarship if they meet the following criteria:

1. applicants must be at least 16 years of age as of January 1, 2013;
2. a current 4-H member in good standing;
3. in their final year of high school and have applied* to a field of study in the arts, science or business of agriculture;

OR

• currently enrolled in post-secondary school and studying arts, science or business of agriculture.

*Applied means the student must show acceptance from a qualified, post-secondary institution by May 31, 2014.

 

Applicants must submit a 500 word essay outlining “What does being a farmer mean to you?” as well as a letter of reference from a 4-H Club leader.

 

An on-line application form can be found at apply.4-h-canada.ca and will open on Tuesday, November 12, 2013.

 

“This educational initiative supports the cornerstone of what 4-H is about”, said Shannon Benner, CEO of 4-H Canada. "We are very fortunate that The Chrysler Foundation understands the importance of developing responsible and motivated young leaders in Canada. This investment truly embodies the spirit of 4-H leadership as it will have community impact from coast to coast.”

 

“In its 100-year history, this is the largest, one-year scholarship program that 4-H has rolled out,” said Reid Bigland, President and CEO, Chrysler Canada. “It goes without saying that The Chrysler Foundation and Ram Trucks are quite humbled to be able provide this many Canadian youth the opportunity to further their education and expand their knowledge in support of our vital agricultural industry. After all, Ram Truck’s ‘Year of the Farmer’ is not only about today’s farmers, but tomorrow’s as well.”

 

The scholarship application process is now open and the deadline to apply is January 15, 2014. Scholarship winners will be notified in March 2014.

 

About 4-H Canada

 

4-H is one of Canada’s longest-running and most respected youth-serving organizations helping young Canadians to “Learn to Do by Doing” in a safe environment. With more than 24,000 members and 7,500 volunteer leaders, the 4-H community has extended beyond its rural roots and offers clubs for a diverse range of interests and skills across the country. Provided with the tools and guidance 4-H members work individually and with others to reach their goals. This unique combination of group-based learning and personal interests is what makes the 4-H experience exciting and memorable for everyone involved. Through this process, we are creating a 4-H culture of skilled, responsible and confident leaders that are committed to positively impacting their communities across Canada. At a national program level, members have the chance to travel nationally and internationally, and participate in leadership conferences and seminars.

 

To learn more about 4-H Canada visit: www.4-h-canada.ca

 

About The Chrysler Foundation

 

The Chrysler Foundation, the charitable arm of Chrysler Group LLC, has established a proud legacy of empowering people and investing in local communities. The Chrysler Foundation focuses its support on four key areas: Education: K-12 and post-secondary education initiatives that encourage the study and pursuit of careers in business, design, science, technology, engineering, mathematics or supply-chain management; Military: support for the nation’s service members and their families in need; Multicultural / Diversity: initiatives that promote inclusion and advancement opportunities for diverse populations; and Youth Development: organizations and programs that provide mentoring and related assistance to aid youth in the transition to adulthood. Since its inception in 1953, The Chrysler Foundation has awarded more than $500 million in charitable grants.

 

About the Ram Truck Brand

 

The Ram Truck brand continues to establish its identity and clearly define its customers since its launch as the newest Chrysler Group LLC vehicle brand. Creating a stand-alone brand for Ram Trucks has allowed the brand to concentrate on how core customers use their trucks and what new features they’d like to see. Whether focusing on a family that uses its half-ton truck day in and day out, a hardworking Ram Heavy Duty owner or a business that depends on its commercial vehicles every day, Ram has the truck market covered.

 

For more information, media can contact:

 

Christine Moses, Marketing and Communications Manager

cmoses@4-h-canada.ca

613-234-4448 (ext 29)

Need a 4-H Loan? ATB Financial can help!

ATB Financial is proud to support tomorrow's leaders.  Through the 4-H Loan Program, ATB provides support to members of the 4-H program by loaning money for the purchase of marketable livestock - beef, swine, sheep, meat goats and horses - and other approved projects.
 

The following conditions apply:

• Loans to a maximum of $5,000
• Interest as low as prime
• Co-signature from parent or guardian is required
• No fee

To find out more, and to print a copy of the 4-H Loan Application Form, please visit:

http://www.atb.com/business/agriculture/agriculture-borrowing/Pages/4-h-loan-program.aspx
 

ATB Financial is a 4-H Alberta Legacy Builder supporter of the 4-H Alberta program - meaning that they are involved at all levels of the 4-H program (club, district, region and province) and contribute to 4-H Alberta's highest level with staff time, company resources and funding. ATB provides support to the following provincial programs: Provincial Leaders' Conference; Senior Members' Conference; Provincial Beef Heifer Show; Provincial Dairy Show; Horse Classic; Provincial Judging Competition; 4-H Scholarships; Awards of Excellence; 4-H Alberta Magazine; Why 4-H is Great Contest & Fundraising Concert as well as offers staffing, support, expertise and assistance with their 4-H Loan Program and 4-H Club Account Programs.

 

 

 

Moody's Equipment Supports District* Communications

 

4-H Alberta is pleased to announce that Moody`s Equipment is continuing as a Champion 4-H Alberta supporter for 2013/2014 club year! Moody’s Equipment is a New Holland agricultural and construction equipment dealership that has committed to building a partnership with 4-H Alberta.

 

Moody’s has committed to supporting select 4-H Alberta District Communications*, 4-H Alberta Calgary Regional Communications, and the 4-H Alberta Magazine. As a result, select districts will be provided funding and support for their District Communications events.  Each District will be notified of exact funding amounts via email and the financial support will be deposited directly into the applicable district accounts via EFT in the new year.

 

Moody’s will be supporting the following 4-H Alberta District Communications: Olds District Areas (Lacombe, Mountain View, Red Deer, Rocky Mountain House); Calgary District Areas (Kneehill, Rockyview, Wheatland); High River District Areas (Foothills, Vulcan, Willow Creek).

 

In light of this development we would like to coordinate a meeting between each applicable district and the related Moody’s representative for the area. Potentially, this face-to-face meeting and discussion could be set up to coincide with one of your District Meetings, depending on the availability of your local Moody’s representative. The goal of this meeting would be to introduce the two parties and to further leverage the partnership by engaging Moody’s Equipment by discussing the objectives of the partnership for both.

 

The 4-H Foundation of Alberta looks forward to working with each applicable district and continuing to facilitate a rewarding partnership with Moody`s Equipment. If the applicable District's President or Treasurer could please contact Rae-Lee Pieschel, Executive Assistant, Corporate Partnerships, 4-H Foundation of Alberta, phone: (587) 999-2240 or email: pieschel@4hab.com, by December 13th, 2013, with details of your district communication date, time, and location, it would be greatly appreciated. Also at this time, we would appreciate if you could let us know what type of volunteers (if any) you require for your communications competitions (for example, if you require volunteer judges). 

 

In the event you have more questions regarding Moody`s Equipment’s support please do not hesitate to contact Carmen Stone directly at the information below:

 

Carmen Stone

Manager, Corporate Partnerships

4-H Foundation of Alberta

#13, 4101 - 19 Street NE | Calgary, AB | T2E 7C4

Ph: 403.869.3528 | Email: cstone@4hab.com

www.4h.ab.ca | www.4hab.com

Why 4-H is Great Tickets Available Now!

 

 

Tickets to the 4th Annual Why 4-H is Great community concert are now available.  The Gord Bamford fundraising concert, for Valleyview 4-H District, sponsored by ATB Financial, will take place on November 14, 2013 at the Valleyview Polar Palace. 

 

$25.00 tickets can be purchased through:

• Harry Gray Elementary
• Hillside Jr./Sr. High School
• Oscar Adolphson Primary School
• Valleyview 4-H District Members
• ATB Financial Branches:
• Beaverlodge
• Fahler
• Fox Creek
• Grande Prairie (all branches)
• High Prairie
• Peace River
• Sexsmith
• Tofield
• Valleyview

In the past three consecutive years, the partnership between ATB Financial, Gord Bamford and 4-H Alberta has raised $37,000 for 4-H.  For more information visit the Why 4-H is Great Facebook page here.

 

 

Don't miss the opportunity to experience the 40th Annual Canadian Finals Rodeo

Don't miss the most action packed finals in Canada.  With six pro-rodeo events: Bull Riding, Saddle Bronc, Barrel Racing, Bareback Riding, Steer Wrestling and Tie-Down Roping the Canadian Finals Rodeo will definitely get your adrenaline flowing. 

Round up your 4-H posse - all you need is 20 or more people for one performance to get discounted group rates!

For a group order form visit here.

4-H can partner to Drive Away Hunger with Farm Credit Canada

As one of Food Banks Canada's Top 10 Food Drives, FCC Drive Away Hunger is making an impact in rural communities across the country...and 4-H can help!

Ten years ago, Farm Credit Canada started Drive Away Hunger.  FCC knew this was something close to the hearts of their customers and employees, and wanted a way to band together to help Canadian food banks help those who go hungry.

Since then, FCC employees and community partners have raised over 11 million pounds of food for food banks in Canada.

This year, until October 18, anyone can make donations of food and cash at your nearest FCC office. Furthermore, 4-H Clubs, Districts and Regions can go above and beyond that and organize their own food drive! In doing so, 4-H can become an official Partner with FCC Drive Away Hunger. To become an official partner each individual club will have to fill out the Letter of Agreement 2013 (by October 9th). For more information or to register as a partner, please email: amanda.wood@fcc.ca.

In addition to feeling great about your contribution, FCC will recognize your club/district/region as a Partner, if you register by October 9th! Partners are essential to FCC Drive Away Hunger.  Your cash and contributions go directly to the registered food bank of your choice and help your community reduce hunger. All donations must be dropped off at the local food bank of your choice and the pounds and dollars raised submitted to FCC by October 20th in order to count towards this year's Drive Away Hunger campaign.

Throughout your campaign 4-H members can use their marketing, community service and public speaking skills to support the Drive Away Hunger! These are valuable life skills that truly set 4-H members apart from their contemporaries. 

This opportunity is also a nice tie into the 100th Anniversary of 4-H Canada Celebrations. The Canadian 4-H Council, as part of their celebrations, has challenged and encouraged all 4-H clubs and councils to make a donation to their local food banks. 4-H Alberta's goal is to raise the most food and funds compared to all other provinces and supporting FCC Drive Away Hunger can help meet that goal!

FCC Drive Away Hunger Tours

Tractor tours will take place the week of October 14 in Alberta, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Quebec and Saskatchewan, including the FCC corporate office in Regina.

Tractor tours in Alberta will be taking place on the following dates:

• Brooks and Medicine Hat - October 16, 2013
• Leduc - October 16, 2013
• Lethbridge - October 17, 2013
• Stony Plain - October 17, 2013
• Fort Saskatchewan - October 18, 2013

Opportunities for 4-H to help directly with these tours may also be available (i.e. delivering and unpacking goods at the local food bank).

If you have questions about FCC Drive Away Hunger and would like to get involved please email: amanda.wood@fcc.ca or call: 306.780.3865. 

Did You Know?

38 per cent of the over 900,000 people who use a Canadian food bank are children? That's more than 338,000 kids right here at home who regularly have to go hungry.

Join Ag for Life for the second annual Harvest Gala

Ag for Life will be hosting its second annual Harvest Gala at Northlands in Edmonton on Saturday, November 2, 2013. 

 

This event supports the work Ag for Life does with agriculture education and farm safety programs across Alberta and is a wonderful evening of great Alberta food, entertainment and networking.  If you're interested in supporting a strong agricultural industry, learning about the programs Ag for Life supports and having a great time at this end of harvest event, please visit Ag for Life's website here to purchase tickets. 

 

4-H Ambassadors Needed

 

4-H Alberta is currently looking for eight to 10 4-H Alberta Ambassadors to volunteer at the Harvest Gala.  Ambassadors will be helping to set up the event, greet guests and host different areas of the Gala.  For more information and to commit, please contact Vanessa Bosworth, ph: 1.877.682.2153, email: Bosworth@4hab.com. Deadline to commit is October 17, 2013. 

Deadline for UFA 4-H Alumni Service Award Quickly Approaching

UFA & 4-H Alberta will once again recognize one 4-H alumni volunteer for their outstanding 2013 contributions to their communities.  Applications can be submitted, no later than November 30, 2013.

 

The UFA 4-H Alumni Service Award will recognize a recipient who has demonstrated leadership through volunteerism. This recipient must have made noteworthy contributions to the development and advancement of their local community by getting involved in 4-H and other community activities.

In order to be recognized, the 4-H Alumni recipient must:

• be newly nominated in 2013 (nominees that have not won in the past may re-apply yearly);
• be between the age of 20 and 35;
• have pursued post-secondary education;
• have returned and remain committed to their rural roots;
• and enhanced their community as a 4-H volunteer for at least two years.

The recipient of the UFA 4-H Alumni Volunteer Service Award will also be presented with a $2,000 UFA gift  certificate in recognition of the contributions.

For more information, please contact:

Carmen Stone

Manager, Corporate Partnerships

4-H Foundation of Alberta

(c) 403.869.3528

NOMINATION FORM AVAILABLE HERE.

Applications to be submitted to:

Jessica Patten

4-H Foundation of Alberta

Email: patten@4hab.com

Fax: 780.682.3784

Mail: 4-H Foundation of Alberta, R.R.1, Westerose, Alberta T0C 2V0

Photography needed for 4-H Alberta Corporate Partnerships Appreciation Evening

October 30, 2013 - the 3rd annual 4-H Alberta Corporate Partnerships Appreciation Evening will take place.  This year, the event will be hosted by the 4-H Foundation of Alberta and the Wheatland 4-H District at the Strathmore Civic Centre in Strathmore, Alberta.

 

The Appreciation Evening will kick off at 5:00 p.m., and from 5:00 p.m. until 8:30 p.m.  the entire hall will be devoted to an engaging and energetic 4-H Showcase.

 

Currently, the 4-H Foundation of Alberta is seeking photos to display at the 4-H Showcase. Pictures can be 4-H photography projects or representations of life as a 4-H member in rural Alberta.  Corporate Partners (sponsors) will be able to view the photographs throughout the evening and get to see first hand the true benefits of 4-H Alberta.

 

Electronic images, accompanied by the name of the photographer, 4-H Club and a brief description of the subject matter, can be emailed to: pieschel@4hab.com by October 13, 2013. 

Alberta Milk funding available for 4-H Alberta Dairy Clubs

 

Alberta Milk has indicated that they have $250 in funding available for each 4-H Dairy Club in the province for the 2013/2014 club year.  To access the funding, each individual club is to contact:

Karlee Conway
Corporate Communications Coordinator
Alberta Milk
Ph: 780.577.3305
Email: kconway@albertamilk.com

Caring for our Watersheds Teams up with 4-H

Are you in Grades 7 - 12? Enter Agrium's Caring for Our Watersheds (CFW) environmental contest for a chance to win cash for your ideas and cash for your 4-H Club!

 

CFW asks youth to submit a proposal that answers the question, "What can you do to improve your watershed?". Teams research their local watershed, identify an environmental concern and come up with one realistic solution.

 

Across Alberta nearly $40,000 will be awarded to students and schools or clubs who participate.

 

Club Prize - For every 10 entries win $100 cash (based on first 500 entries) and all finalists will win matching cash awards for their club. This means that if your 4-H team finishes in first place, the team wins $1000 and the club wins $1000.  Plus, there is still money to implement the idea!

 

To qualify, a club must register online at www.caringforourwatersheds.com. All club members must select their club when they enter the contest.

 

Central Alberta Contest Entry Deadline - Thursday, April 3, 2014

Contact: Nathalie@battleriverwatershed.ca

 

Southern Alberta Contest Entry Deadline - Tuesday, March 18, 2014

Contact: Laura.Ewtushik@calgary.ca

 

Free watershed presentations, mentorship and resources are available upon request.

FortisAlberta Caring for Our Communities Contest Returns *New and Improved*

 

FortisAlberta has announced that 2013 will mark the 3rd Annual Community Cares Contest.  ALL 4-H Clubs ACROSS ALBERTA are invited to enter the contest, complete a community improvement venture and submit their before/after presentation or "Journey", via the 4-H Alberta Facebook page.  This contest runs from September 1, 2013 until June 30, 2014. 

Four top prizes will be awarded - $1000 each!

 

For more information, please contact Rae-Lee Pieschel, 4-H Foundation of Alberta, phone: 587.999.2240, email: pieschel@4hab.com or visit: www.4h.ab.ca and check out the "Contest" page. 

Support 4-H when you book a flight, car, hotel or packaged travel!

 

I.T.S. Travel & Cruise 4-H Alberta Bookings Program offers the opportunity for all members of the 4-H community to easily, affordably and conveniently support local 4-H clubs. 

 

I.T.S. Travel & Cruise, a family owned and operated agency offering personalized travel arrangements around the world, assists in booking airfares, package holidays, cruise vacation, escorted tours and many other travel options at competitive prices.

 

As a 4-H Alberta Champion supporter, I.T.S. Travel & Cruise is proud to offer the ability to provide direct club support while making a booking through them. The 4-H Community throughout Alberta, including parents, leaders, members and families can utilize I.T.S. Travel & Cruise services to book a flight, car, hotel, etc. and support their local 4-H organization. Upon making a booking, all patrons can specify which local 4-H Alberta club they wish to benefit as a result of using I.T.S. for their travel arrangements.

 

The amount of services and travel purchased will then determine the financial support going back to the patron's 4-H Alberta club of choice, and the 4-H Foundation of Alberta.

 

I.T.S. has committed to the following financial dollars, based on booking amounts, to be forwarded to local clubs and the 4-H Foundation of Alberta:

 

• Up to $999 receives $25.00 per person
• $2000 - $4999 receives $50.00 per person
• $5000+ receives $100 per person

 

75% of the financial support based on the booking amounts listed above will go directly to the club; the remaining 25% will go to the 4-H Alberta Member and Leader Travel Fund. 

 

How to use the Bookings Program:

 

Anytime throughout the year, book a flight, car, hotel, etc. by contacting I.T.S. Travel & Cruise:

 

I.T.S. Travel & Cruise

Lynn Holinski

5056 - 50th Street

Innisfail, Alberta T4G 1S7

Phone: 1.877.227.4348

Email: lynn@itstvl.com

 

Upon booking, state the 4-H Club you would like to receive the financial benefit from your booking.  75% of the financial support based on the bookings amounts listed above will go directly to the club you specify; the remaining 25% will go to the 4-H Alberta Member and Leader Travel Fund. 

 

On a quarterly basis, each 4-H club that was selected by the patron when making their bookings will receive the applicable financial dollars directly from the 4-H Foundation of Alberta via electronic funds transfer (EFT). 

 

For More Information regarding the 4-H Alberta Bookings Program or I.T.S. Travel & Cruise please contact:

 

Rae-Lee Pieschel

4-H Foundation of Alberta

Phone: 587.999.2240

Email: pieschel@4hab.com

UFA will award $250,000 in total prizes during GetNGive Contest!

Between September 10, 2013 and April 15, 2014 UFA Co-operative Limited will be awarding five $50,000 prizes to organizations that champion rural sustainability! Over that time frame the total amount awarded will total $250,000.

 

UFA will be choosing the first winner on October 10, 2013.  Each winner will then select the subsequent winners.  It is the ultimate act of rural kindness!

 

Full details and rules and regulations can be found at www.UFA.com/GetnGive.

 

Who can enter?

 

Any group that resides within 200 km of a UFA location in Alberta, Saskatchewan or British Columbia, and has a project that will support or enrich their rural community and have a lasting impact.

 

What kind of project would be eligible?

 

Any project that supports and enriches rural communities. It could be everything from a new piece of equipment to the foundation for a new riding arena, or even the development to an existing structure in your community. 

 

 

How are the winners chosen?

 

UFA judging is involved to choose the first winner.  For the remaining four (4) winners, the judges will assess all entries based on the same criteria and will submit five (5) semi-finalists to the winning group.  They will then choose the next project to win based on the same criteria as the UFA judges.

Are you ready for Gord Bamford Valleyview?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11 4-H districts competed in “Why 4-H is Great” Contest and one walked away with it

 

Battle Lake, Alberta – The 2013 “Why 4-H is Great” contest was once again a resounding success. The five contest finalists thrilled audience members at the Alberta 4-H Centre as they demonstrated their outstanding talents while competing for the top musical honours on August 12. The “Why 4-H is Great” community concert Facebook also concluded at this event, with the winning 4-H district being officially announced near the end of the day’s proceedings. 2013 marks the fourth consecutive year that 4-H Alberta has partnered with ATB Financial and Gord Bamford to present the “Why 4-H is Great” musician’s contest and community concert.

 

By far the best year yet. The district engagement was the highest thus far and certainly the desire to have Gord Bamford do a mentoring session and perform in their region trumped all. "All of the audio/visual contest submissions made by 4-H Alberta districts were a pleasure to watch, and each one highlighted something special and unique about the 4-H program and the partnership we collectively share,” stated Dan Allen, Vice President of Independent Business and Agriculture, ATB Financial on August 12.  “We were very impressed with the calibre of the performances today. Having the confidence to perform on stage in front of an audience is an incredible ability at any age, but is especially remarkable among such young talent. I believe that it is thanks in large part to the life skills learned through participating in the 4-H program that we witnessed so many talented, poised and gifted young acts here today”.

Dan Allen - ATB Financial; Jada Harrion, Cindy Harrion, Sherry Howey - Valleyview District;
Jackie Ray - Newcap Radio; Bruce Banks - 4-H Foundation of Alberta

In absence of Gord Bamford, special guest Scott Schiffner, Professional Bull Rider, offered the audience of 130 people some advice for competing and being successful during a ”Question and Answer” mentorship session. Members of the audience and 4-H summer camp attendees had several questions for Schiffner regarding his experience and career. One of Schiffner’s most notable responses that truly resonated with the crowd was to “be sure to ask lots and lots of questions as there is never a stupid question and make sure you learn to be a great loser.  You never get better if you do not lose.  If you lose, you learn to ask questions and you get better at what you do”. Bamford, recent Canadian Country Music Awards (CCMA) nominee for the 2013 CCMA Fan’s Choice Award, was in Arizona filming his next video release on his new album and was unable to attend the event. 

 

Five outstanding musical acts where invited to perform on August 12. The judging panel was comprised of Terry Andryo, Senior Agriculture Marketing Manager, Business and Agriculture, ATB Financial; special guest Scott Schiffner, Professional Bull Rider; and radio broadcast personality, Jackie Rae Greening, Manager of Edmonton Operations, Newcap Radio. After careful deliberation, Taryn Stauffer of Tofield Beef Club was selected by the judges as the contest winner. She has been awarded with the exciting honour of being the opening act for Gord Bamford in Valleyview, Alberta at the “Why 4-H is Great” concert. 



Dan Allen - ATB Financial, Taryn Stauffer - Tofield 4-H Beef Alumni,
Scott Schiffner - Professional Bull Rider and Jackie Ray Greening - Newcap Radio

“The amazing talent Alberta has to offer is really impressive.  We witnessed great vocals, great songwriting, and great stage presence – thanks to the 4-H communications program! It was a really enjoyable afternoon”, stated Jackie Rae Greening, Manager, Edmonton Operations, Newcap Radio. 

This year all 4-H Alberta Districts were encouraged to apply to be the “Why 4-H is Great” community concert host by submitting audio visual entries that highlight “Why 4-H is Great” or “Why 4-H loves Alberta”. Out of eleven entries, the top 3 were posted to Facebook and were judged by the general public, who were invited to cast their vote until August 11.

The Facebook race was a tight one up until the last weekend, in which the winning candidate – Valleyview 4-H District – managed to jump ahead of their opponents to take the lead in the competition with a total of 1,234 votes. Their fabulous grand prize will be to host the Gord Bamford community concert on November 14, 2013, which will act as a fundraiser for their local 4-H District.  All members of the Valleyview 4-H District will also receive a private Gord Bamford mentoring session as well on the day of the concert. 

Second place went to Drayton Valley 4-H District, with 1,158 votes. They received a 2013 Canadian Country Music Association Prize Package to use as a raffle fundraiser.  Placing third was Mountain View 4-H District, with 613 votes, and they received a $200 4-H Foundation Souvenir gift certificate. 

The “Why 4-H is Great” community concert, sponsored by ATB Financial, will take place on November 14, 2013. Tickets can be purchased starting September 2013 and more information will be available on the “Why 4-H is Great” and 4-H Alberta website.   

“We are really excited to get started with planning and promoting this concert and to bring Gord Bamford to our community! All of our hard work and efforts to showcase and promote 4-H Alberta has paid off! We’re hoping to make this the best “Why 4-H is Great” concert yet,” stated Sherry Howey, President, Valleyview 4-H District.

The Valleyview 4-H District will utilize the concert as a local fundraiser for 4-H. In the past three consecutive years, the partnership between ATB Financial, Gord Bamford and  4-H Alberta has lead to more than $37,000 in total being raised for local 4-H.

About ATB Financial

ATB Financial is the largest Alberta-based financial institution, providing personal, business, agriculture, corporate and investor financial services to more than 635,000 Albertans and Alberta-based businesses in 242 communities. We provide service through 170 branches and 130 agencies, telephone and internet banking, a Customer Contact Centre, and automated banking machines. ATB Financial was established in 1938 and has been a provincial Crown corporation since 1997. ATB has won numerous national workplace awards, including recognition as one of Canada's best 50 employers.

 

About Gord Bamford

Gord Bamford is a true country boy, devoted family man, skilled entertainer, and very successful, multi-award winning Canadian Country Music Artist. Honored with an incredible 6 nominations (16 including all his associated nominations) for the 2012 CCMA Award Show, Gord was named this year’s Songwriter of the Year as well as Interactive Artist of the Year.  2013, Gord is one of the top 5 artists in running for the CCMA Fans Choice Award.  Voting for the CCMA Fans’ Choice Award winner is now open at www.ccma.org.  All voters will automatically be entered into a draw to win the Ultimate Fan Contest with the lucky winner being whisked away to Edmonton to attend Country Music Week® and present the Fans’ Choice Award on the CCMA Awards Broadcast.