Agricultural Societies
Newsletter
MAY c C m
ISSN: 0228-1090
MAY 1990
INDEX
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Pg. |
3 |
Judges Forms |
• Pg- |
3 |
|
|
AAAS or US |
Pg. |
8 |
More Fair Suggestions . . . . |
• Pg- |
7 |
|
Adopt a Classroom |
Pg. |
10 |
Nothing But Ideas |
- Pg- |
5 |
|
Another Fair Idea |
Pg. |
7 |
Notice Board |
■ Pg- |
9 |
|
Pg. |
2 |
Not Your Average Idea . . . . |
- Pg- |
3 |
|
|
Ask Us About Our Idea |
Pg. |
5 |
Order an Idea or Two |
- Pg. |
6 |
|
Community News |
Pg. |
7 |
Please Help |
- Pg. |
5 |
|
Congratulations Editor's Note |
Pg. |
3 |
Spring Into 4-H |
. Pg. |
10 |
|
Pg. |
2 |
10 Hot Tips on How to Get a |
|||
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Fair Ideas |
Pg. |
9 |
Fair Grant Faster |
. Pg- |
4 |
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Fund Raising Facts & Followups. |
Pg. |
2 |
Theme A Year |
. Pg. |
3 |
WILDERNESS PARK, Grimshaw Picture from
Alberta Farm & Ranch, Jan. '90 ^JOll^l Photo by: Carolyn Paul, Grimshaw
AGRICULTURE
Community Services /Rural Services Division, 7000 -113 St. Edmonton, Alta. T6H 5T6 Ph: 427-2171
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Digitized |
by the Internet Archive |
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in 2014 |
https://archive.org/details/agricsocnews94
EDI TOR NOTE
If your agricultural society didn't get "noticed" in our good ideas section, this newsletter, please don't feel slighted. As many of you know, I started in January and now, four months later there are still many things I don't know.
Keep those program and activities reports in your year ends as descriptive as possible because many of these ideas are direct "lifts" from your reports.
I am responsible for the Northern half of the province, so you should not consider the lack of Southern attention as an indication of anything but the fact that I review year ends from the North!
Everyone will have his/her day. Thanks for sharing.
Karen Hoover
ASK ANDY WHAT DO YOU DO WITH A . . .
Several agricultural societies expressed concern about what to do with a member who is very energetic and influential but is blocking the agricultural society through his or her action or inaction.
From the presentation given about volunteers and some experience on the side, we know that we are our own most positive or most damaging promoters.
How do we turn the energies of this person to flow along the same channel our agricultural society is going?
If you've had some success, write or call and we'll have some answers for the next newsletter.
FUND RAISING FACTS AND FOLLOW UP
Fund raising can be a lot of fun and a lot of work. Here are some return rates on
money invested, gathered from financial statements of several agricultural societies. Thought you might find it interesting.
Net Income # of Ag. Societies Project Revenue Direct Costs x % Reporting
|
1. |
Cookbook |
$ 1,400.00 |
$ 2,236.00 |
<36%> |
2 |
|
2. |
Nevadas |
$27,064.08 |
$ 5,125.48 |
428% |
4 |
|
3. |
Raffle |
$ 1,904.00 |
$ 2,458.00 |
<23%> |
1 |
|
4. |
Cal endar |
$ 2, 280.00 |
$ 1,361.00 |
68% |
1 |
|
5. |
Bingo |
$61,436.69 |
$29,070.39 |
111% |
7 |
|
6. |
Cafeteria |
$75,108.00 |
$38,061.52 |
97% |
6 |
|
7. |
Fair |
$178,153.91 |
$136,858.00 |
30% |
21 |
I heard several groups complaining bitterly about having to go out to bingo halls on a regular basis. You need a fund raiser that your members enjoy, have time for and will return enough money to meet your goals.
- 2 -
NOT YOUR AVERAGE IDEA
CONGRATULATIONS
Grimshaw Agricultural Society says it's not FAIR for them! After many years of hosting a successful trade show, they decided to get a project that allowed them to work when farming time isn't so critical and to enjoy the outdoors at the same time.
The wheel chair accessible Wilderness Park is a quarter section with 2 fishing ponds, cross country ski and hiking trails with picnic areas and many unique bird houses. A resident manager oversees the area.
The plan includes a third pond and wildlife sanctuary and will see more gravelled trails in the future.
Don't hesitate to choose a project that you really enjoy! It's worked in Grimshaw.
A MEMBER IS . . .
From the February Newsletter at Genesee
"In the future each membership card will be attached to a list of privileges and a definition of "Active Member", in order to prevent misunderstandings.
The very nominal fee of $2.00 is enough to make one a card carrier, but it takes more than that to run the hall and meet our obi igat ions .
An "Active Member" is one who helps with the social functions, attends the monthly meetings (at least 50% of time) and is willing to take a turn at catering and hall maintenance.
Privileges include lower hall rentals, admission to the curling, appreciation night and the enjoyment that comes from community involvement."
Thanks, Genesee
To those agricultural societies celebrating a special year this year. Here are four I noticed in year end reports.
Willingdon - 46th Annual Fair Wildwood - 50th Annual Fair Westlock - 75th Anniversary Peace River - 75th year
Let us know if you're having special celebrations this year.
JUDGE'S FORMS ARE AVAILABLE AT DISTRICT AGRICULTURE OFFICE. CALL IN FOR YOURS TODAY. Thanks for reminding us Ellen.
- 3 -
10 HOT TIPS ON HOW TO GET GRANTS FASTER
1. Send the grant in as soon as It's complete.
Fair grants can come in any time after the fair and operating grants can be submitted as soon as you have reached your maximum or as close as possible to your year end.
2. Match bills and cheques.
We cannot accept one without the other. Be careful with this step. Time does cost money! It is helpful if the appropriate bill and cheque are copied together.
3. We do not pay late charges or fees charged by banks, etc. when you pay your utility bills. Please subtract these from the totals before you submit them.
4. Copy the full bill .
The auditors are not pleased with just a line which outlines the amount. This tells nothing of who the bill is for, how the charges were set, etc.
5. January 15th is an important deadline.
Until that date, you are in good standing by your last year end. All grants are processed. January 16th we start holding any grants for societies who have not submitted a list of officers, an activity report and a financial statement completed by an accountant. (CA, CGA or CMA) . And there the grants sit.
6. If the person who does your financial statement uses none of the designations (CA, CGA or CMA) he or she probably does not qualify under the regulations. We've had to ask several groups to get their statement redone.
7. There are some expenses that are not el igible.
- Capital improvements are not operating expenses
- Garbage pick up is not eligible
- Judge's expenses on a fair claim form (we pay these separately)
- Prize money on a form called Statement of Fair Expenses
(they are already on the other form) Please refer to the guidelines sent with the grant forms, or if in doubt, call or write us or make a note to us when you send your claim in.
8. Don't cut, staple and paste many little pieces of information onto one sheet.
The photocopier will not accept this so it must all be taken apart before copying
9. Claim only one fiscal year per form!
10. Insurance
We need an invoice to show your cost and your cheque to show you paid it. You don't need to send us a copy of your pol icy.
I'm sure this is very confusing for some - please call if we can help you because we'll be calling you if we don't have what we need to process your grant.
NOTHING BUT IDEAS
Here are some ideas picked from yearend reports. They may be new, old or they may just
give you some ideas of your own.
4-H
* Yellowhead looks after achievement day expenses
* Facility for regular meeting
* Peace River - classes in fair books for 4-H'ers
* Judging competitions
* Innisfree - 1990 Reunion
* Public speaking support
* Workshops
* Potluck and awards night host
* Sponsor to Goldeye Camp
* Joint leadership development
Agriculture Courses
* Extra Income for Rural Families - Willow Prairie
* Farm Women in the Work Place - Two Hills
* Rural Women's Day - Peers
* Agriculture Week breakfasts - Ryley, Sangudo
* Exhibitors' Workshops/Judges Workshops
* Rocky Lane - purchased videos on agriculture related topics
* Safety courses
* Red Angus and Market Lamb Shows - Vermil ion
* Savor Alberta Flavor - Delia Homecoming, Rochester
* Surface Rights meetings
* Rural Crime Watch meetings
* Alberta Wheat Pool meetings
* Seed Cleaning Plant meetings
Farm Family Development
* Worsley nominated a farm family for recognition
* Sponsor a youth of any age to conference or camp (Alberta Women's Week, AAAS)
* Two Hills Farmers' Day - beerfest, dance dance and demol it ion
* Sponsor a local athlete - Kinsella
* Provision of and maintenance of a place for community members to meet
* Donate to health care center
* Subsidization of playschool or minor hockey
* Scholarship fund - Rocky Lane, St. Paul
Other Interesting Ideas
* A wagon train from Red Deer to Westlock
* Vegreville hosts a mural painting and a scarecrow competition
* Mundare runs a tourist information centre, May 1 - September 1
* Victoria Trail - children's parade
* Chauvin - Environmentally safe household cleaners display
* Peace River has a fair class for miniature doll houses and one for shadow boxes
* Mom's and Tot's - fashion show and tea
* Chauvin - inventions class for fair, agricultural and recreational
ASK US ABOUT OUR IDEA
* Ask Maxine Anderson or Karen West from Provost (Phone 753-6871) about their Agriculture Week breakfast. 200 people braved a storm and paid $1.00 per plate or farmgate prices for their breakfast. The Agricultural Service Board co-sponsored the event and displays and hampers told the Alberta "Food" Story.
* Ask Karen Swanson (R. R. #1 Chauvin) how to improve the quality and number of entries at the fair by hosting guided tours for school classes.
* Ask June Conrad (Hondo, AB) what a flat race is.
* If you need some tips on improving your recording system at your fair, ask Colleen Hemingway (Rycroft)
* The 15th Annual Road Rally - ask Edith Anderson at Rochester
* Ask Bertha Kasbolm (Box 2108, Westlock) how to hold snowmobile races with no snow
* La Crete agricultural society donated 10 acres of land to Fairview College, ask Bill Neufeld (Box 351) about it
* Thinking of setting up a Christmas Light Up Contest?, ask H.iordis Armitage at Box 8, Kinsella
* Brenda Jossy of Fort Saskatchewan can tell you about preparing TV dinners for plant workers
* Innisfree had great success getting new members, ask Harry Kulak
Please Help! Have you sponsored a husband calling contest? Corrine Dechaine at 635-4147 would like details. Please give us or Corrine a call.
ORDER AN IDEA OR TWO!!!
If you want to receive an excellent newsletter, here's an address for you!
Newsletter
Resource Centre for Voluntary Organizations
Room 318, 7th Street Plaza
Grant McEwen Community College
10030 - 107 Street
EDMONTON, Alberta T5J 3E4
It's free, it's quick to read and it's well worth the time!
At the AAAS Conference, Louise Welsh and I presented a session about working with your communities.
I have point form outlines on Tips for Working with a Committee and how to do Promotions on a Shoestring. These are tried and true and work for me. Ask for either or both, if you'd like a copy.
Louise attended a conference in Brandon this spring and brought back several good articles on working with the media. If you're interested - check the appropriate articles and we'll send them to you.
Understanding the Media
Importance of, who are the media, meeting the media,
taboo subjects, handling an interview, when to hold
a news conference, when to send out a news release.
Writing Releases - Four styles
4 examples of PNE news releases - each effective
Release Tip Sheet
Concise, "How to" sheet
Guidelines When Dealing with the Media - BC Hydro 13 concise rules to successful encounters and 11 points for a good interview
The Spring '90 newsletter has these articles:
* Fundraising * Tip of the Month
* How to be a Local Hero * Managing Conflict
* Training Tips * What's New at the
* Invigorating your Board
* Borrowing a Fundraising Professional
Resource Centre
Name:
Address:
Postal Code:
- 6 -
Hanna Community Resource Awareness Dav - "Review Your Inventory"
The Hanna Agricultural Society with the assistance of Alberta Agriculture, Agricultural & Community Services sponsored a very informative day for close to 50 participants. Presenters were from Alberta Agriculture, Alberta Gaming Commission, Alberta Recreation & Parks, Alberta Sports Council, The Recreation and Parks Foundation and the Wild Rose Foundation.
The best time to learn anything is when whatever is to be learned is immediately useful .
Postman & Weingarter
Teaching as a Subversive Activity
Each of the resource staff presented a half hour capsule of their services, grants and other resources they offer. Participants also shared their resources.
The purpose of the workshop was to enlighten community organizations regarding resources available to the community and to encourage groups to cooperate in making these services available to the community at large.
The evaluations indicated that the workshop was definitely well received, that they'd like another workshop with different resource presenters and more time for participants to share.
Hanna Agricultural Society has committed funds from their lotteries to support the school in hiring a resource person to be available to talk to students with a focus on stress reduction, lower suicide rates, drug and alcohol abuse.
Rimbey Agricultural Society - New Idea
Bunny Hunt - bunnies are turned loose in a fenced area for youngsters to catch, take home and raise. Good lead into a small rabbit show. Don't forget to provide information on bunny care and housing. The Agricultural and Community Services Branch lias Information to assist you. Phone your Prggr^m Consultant.
ANOTHER FAIR IDEA
Medicine Hat holds an exhibitor's reception prior to the public opening of the fair. This gives the exhibitor's a chance to view the judge's comments and find out their status regarding placement of winners.
It gives the agricultural society a chance to say, "thanks for entering" and become more visible. Perhaps a suggestion box or question and suggestion period could be added to the reception pi an .
MORE FAIR SUGGESTIONS
Regarding a large number of entries in a board general class, add to the fairbook - This category may at the suggestion of the judge and discretion of the fair convenor/management, be split into sections that would reflect the types quality of the articles exhibit .
Have judge's sign their comment tags so the exhibitor can contact them for information.
- 7 -
SKILL TESTING SECTION AAAS or US
There is a lot of confusion about the difference between AAAS - your provincial association and US - Agricultural and Community Services. Try this little game and see how well you know your resources!
1. Administers grants and sends out grant forms
2. _ Provides you with fair tags
3. Writes newsletters
4. Runs an annual conference
5. Sets up mini conferences in your area
6. Louise, Rae, Andy, Karen and Anne are your contacts
7. Has a delightful accent when you speak to her
8. Our address is J.G. O'Donoghue Building, Edmonton
9. Is in the office Tuesday and Thursday
10. _ Is your lobby group to influence issues through various channels
11. Provides an office, equipment, storage, mailing and photocopying, printing
services and phone to AAAS
12. Provided a new resource binder to your agricultural society to keep things
in order
13. Is responsible for the formation of new agricultural societies
14. _ Administers, arrangements for touring and booking of quilts and organizing
quilt workshops
15. Is happy to refer questions directed either to AAAS or US
It's difficult for people to understand that when two offices with different purposes are located adjacent to each other that we don't each know everything the other office does. Have patience and bear with us. We'll all be the better for it!
ANSWERS
1. US 2. AAAS 3. Both 4. AAAS 5. US 6. US 7. AAAS 8. Both 9. AAAS 10. AAAS 11. US 12. US 13. US 14. AAAS 15. Both
If you got (1-5) answers correct - to the back of the bus!; (6 - 10) Good - we'll hire you; (11 - 14), Leave your name and address - Free subscription to our newsletter; (15) Reg & Eve are not eligible!.
A leader is best when peopl e" barely know he exists
i Not so good when people obey and acclaim him.
1 Worse when they despise him.
i Fail to honour people, They fail to honour you.
1 But of a good leader, who talks little,
I When his work is done, his aim fulfilled,
1 The people will say, "We did this ourselves".
1 Lao-Tzu
i _ o I
I wv»p^wv«j^«*!^"^^!«!'^iw*^^ r^rmmf^^^^^^^ www www i
NOTICE BOARD
FAIR IDEAS
2.
3.
4.
Notice to Southern Alberta, mark November 23 - 24 on your calendar and plan to attend the 4th Annual Mini Conference. Our hosts - Associat ion
Taber Exhibition Agricultural Society
From Edmonton Northlands Events Manager, Leroy Emerson (March 2, 1990) Consider adding the question, "Are these cattle originating from a
Leucosis tested herd? Yes No ?",
to the bottom of the entry form you send out to your livestock exhibitors. This would help you to keep tested and untested livestock separate and may encourage more exhibitors to enter your fair.
From Arts Afield. Vol II, No. 1 November '89 - Portable Stage Can Travel to Southern Alberta
"Calgary Exhibition & Stampede [has] a fully-equipped, heated, portable stage, complete with dressing room, lighting and sound input and amplification is available for use at suitable outdoor activities, free of charge..." The stage is ideal for use with a large crowd and is, "14 feet in height, 8 feet, 6 inches deep and 65 feet wide. It is equipped with a 6500 watt generator, is fully-lighted for television coverage, has sound input, amplifiers and speakers and
Helpful Hints from Judge's Update, Region I, Photograph
What does Special Effect mean? Is it a tree with knobby knees? Is it a double exposure? A drop of water on the lens as you take the picture?
Our 'experts', in this case a collection of minds, came up with this definition and suggestion.
Definition PHOTOGRAPHY - SPECIAL EFFECTS
Manipulation of the camera, supplies, materials and dark room techniques to make the object look "out of the ordinary"
Suggestions
- that this definition be included in the fairbook. Special trees with knobby knees, please go to special object or unusual object category.
- also include the rule that the photographer must indicate how the special effect was achieved, on the fair tag.
- photographs entered must have been taken within 18 months or 2 years prior to the fair in which they are entered. In this way, new photographs and increased quality will always be on view for your
heaters, dressing contact, Calgary.
two
There is also a heated room. For more information, John Campbell at 560-0050, in
publ ic have a class indicating a to 1945.
for historical prior to date,
photos ie: prior
The Senior's Craft Society of Alberta Gift Shoppe at #201, 10324 - 82 Avenue, Edmonton, T6E 1Z8, phone 433-2053 is a non profit organization formed to give seniors an opportunity to sell their crafts on a consignment basis in the shop All types of articles are welcome. Call or write them, if you are interested and are 55 years or over . . . REALLY!
SPRING INTO 4-H
4-H has been going strong in Alberta for over 70 years. Currently there are 7,450 members in 460 Alberta 4-H clubs. With the assistance of 2,500 volunteer leaders, 4-H provides an opportunity for rural youth between the ages of 10 and 21 to become productive, contributing members of society.
4-H is an enjoyable, educational and personally rewarding organization. Through 4-H, members acquire knowledge and skills in specific project areas by managing their own project. Educational workshops and clinics supplement project activities. There are more than 32 different 4-H projects. A wide range of agricultural and homemaking projects, plus a variety of other projects including photography, small engines and wildlife are available.
Members gain knowledge through the "learn to do by doing" principle. But, the 4-H program also stresses personal development such as building self-esteem, communication skills and leadership.
Communication skills are an important facet of 4-H. Members have an opportunity to develop both oral and written skills through public speaking, demonstrations and other activities.
Leadership skills are another key aspect of 4-H. Members' skills are enhanced by participating in their club executive and or as a junior leader. Adult volunteer leaders are also encouraged to develop their leadership skills through workshops, programs and training materials.
Through exchanges and other programs, 4-H also offers its members an opportunity to meet new people and socialize with rural youth from across Alberta, Canada and other countries.
Community involvement is an important part of the 4-H movement. Volunteers and sponsors play a vital role in helping members achieve their goals through programs, conferences, awards and scholarships.
As they have for many years now, in early May approximately 6,000 4-H club members participate in the annual Alberta highway clean up. 4-H members cleaned local roadsides to help keep Alberta clean and to fund club activities.
In the summer of 1992, 4-H will celebrate 75 years in Alberta. A "Big Celebration is being planned and 4-H families from across Alberta are expected to attend.
4-H is a well established and worthwhile organization for rural youth. The 4-H movement's aim is to see its members become citizens who will bring responsibility, creativity, reliability and caring to their club, community and country. For further information on how to become a member, leader or sponsor, please contact your nearest Alberta Agriculture district office.
WHY NOT? ADOPT- A-CLASSROOM!
Agriculture in the Classroom is looking for "pen pal" families for urban school cl assrooms.
This may be your opportunity to share country life highlights with an urban classroom. It's fun, it's easy and it's coordinated through the Agriculture in the Classroom Program.
For more information, contact: Betty Gabert
2nd Floor, 7000 - 113 Street Edmonton, Alberta T6H 5T6
Phone: 427-2402
- 10 -
^^L. I. ^0
Agricultural Societies
Newsletter
ISSN: 0288-1090
JSi^PPO^t to other community organizations
SEPTEMBER 1990
CZJbjectives - to improve agriculture, horticulture and homemaking in rural Alberta
CZHommunity cooperation
Ulnvestment in the future of rural communities
!EInthusiastic volunteers
Training for young leaders
_l_ndividual achievements
Hlfiiicati nn of consumers
INDEX Page 7
JSharing with over 300 agricultural societies
/dibcrra
. Mask Making - Alder Flats Fair
AGRICULTURE Believe it or not! The instructors are in the picture!
Community Services /Rural Services Division, 7000 -113 St Edmonton, Alta. T6H5T6 Ph: 427-2171
Caimhif ims
Congratulations to the new fairs that were initiated this summer and fall.
Tomahawk & District Sports Agricultural Society did an excellent job with their first ever fair. The local community- provided excellent support with numerous entries in most of the categories.
Beaverlodge & District Agricultural Society impressed their area and the local DHE, Susan Meyer, with some outstanding displays. The fair was rated as a complete success by all those who attended.
The efforts of all the volunteers was evident in the displaying of the entries. Everything looked good and the quality of the entries was excellent.
The enthusiasm of all the volunteers was evident as the quality of entries and the overall show was a highlight in the local community.
NEW IDEA The convenors who had organized a yard and garden contest had an excellent idea to pass on to other fairs. Winners of each category had pictures of their yards and gardens displayed with a few comments of the judges typed and mounted on the bristol board.
I'm sure Tomahawk will have many successful fairs in their future.
No doubt the Beaverlodge fair will be the first of many more in the area.
The Beaumont
District Agricultural
Society held their first bench show this fall. They picked a theme with lots of potential for displays and entries - Zucchini.
The possibilities for things to do with zucchini added to the fun and enjoyment of all those entering and attending the fair.
A very interesting display idea was a weed identification contest with a slight twist. A scentless camomile plant was brought in and guesses were taken on the number of seeds that one plant would produce. Besides educating more people about those, "lovely daisies", the guesses for the number of seeds helps people understand how fast these weeds spread and their categorization as "noxious".
The Beaumont & District Agricultural Society is endeavouring to make themselves known throughout the community with many more activities already being planned. Good luck to their agricultural society and all their future events.
World Pumpkin Confederation Weigh-In
The Smoky Lake Agricultural Society has an opportunity for you to display your overgrown vegetables. The official
weigh-in will be held, Monday, October 8 at the Smoky Lake Agricultural Complex.
There are prizes and trophies for the heaviest pumpkin, squash, watermelon, garlic, potato and cabbage. The world's heaviest pumpkin will net the producer $3,000 US.
A lot of contests and activities are planned for the day to make it a fun activity for the whole family. So get your front end loader into the garden and load up that prize winner.
Please contact the pumpkin hotline for more details - Barry at 656-3508 or Larry at 656-3599.
^^^nl^ HOTLIME
It s \Arorth getting up early for something this
SPECIAL
Come and enjoy the day . . . Help celebrate and welcome hack Tlje Springbank Country Fair!!!
•^GNAGE SIGNA^F
SIGNAGE AWARDS
La]cedell Agricultural Society - fair signs along highway from Mameo Beach East of Lakedell to Winfield to the West
Mid-River8 Agricultural Society a large bench show schedule sign on a trailer in the buisness area of town, plus large signs announcing the fair at both main entrances to town.
Tofield Agricultural Society addition of fair signage to Town of Tofield sign.
Alberta Beach & District Agricultural Society - a series of signs along the secondary road indicating activities, inviting people to the fair.
A CONE BACK SAMPLE Schedule of Events
Curling Cl|ib Pancake Breakfast — Curling Rink Country 105 Community Cruiser — Curling Rink Community/Commercial Booths — Red Dutton Arena
Contact: Brenda Watson (242-7914) or Rosie Willick (242-9303) Speaker's Comer
Stage Show — Stage, Red Dutton Arena
Contact: Ute Holewa (242-5844) Baseball Tournament — Baseball Field
Contact: Wayne McNeil (249-2%3) Horeshoe Tournament
Contact: Jim McKendrick (242-9152) Heritage Club Soup Kitchen — Cafeteria, High School Farrier Demonstration — Football Field ■ •
Hayrides - Football Field
Agriculture/Craft Show — Gymnasium, High School
Contact: Jackie Ford, Park office (242-2223) home (246-0777) Lions' Auction
Contact: Neil Leeson (286-9846) or Ray Bussey (246-6010) Kite Flying Demonstrations — Football Field Presentation of Awards — Stage, Red Dutton Arena 2nd Annual Springbank Harvest Dance — Curling Rink Doors Of>en 2 Step Lessons Cindy Church Band
Contact: Park office (242-2223) or Gord Phillips (247-1553)
Advance ticket sales only please
Especially for Kids
10 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Bicycle Parade — Tennis Courts,
Contact: Roberta Clark (949-3659) 10:45 a.m. - 1 1 a.m. Awards for Bicycle Parade — Stage, Red Dutton Arena
1 1 a.m. - 4 p.m. Carnival Tent — Football Field
1 1 a.m. - 4 p.m. Castle Fun for Kids — Red Dutton Lounge
1 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. Kids Field Day Activities -
Tennis Court Area Petting Zoo
Camrose county Fair and Festival a comback with a whole new fair format in their new and newly renovated Agriculture Building on Exhibition Road.
Cochrane - Hollywood type sign on hill West of town featuring the Cochrane Agricultural Society.
Oyen - Big Country Fair on highway entrance to town.
Community Events
All 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
IVIinor Hockey Registration and
Dsed Equipment Sale
Dropoff Friday night 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Contact: Doug Biggs (242-9213) Figure Skating Registration and Used Equipment Sale
Drop-off Friday night 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. Contact: Carole Wright (288-9554)
Boy's Brigade Registration
Contact: Bill Lazenby (249-3535) Park Membership & Special Drt
Contact: Rosie Willick (242-9303)
For more information concerning any of the Country Fair events feel free to contact fair coordinator Jane Squier (242-9355).
If we missed your fair signs, please send us a picture or a note telling us what to look for and where they are located.
welcome hack
f^^OSt COUNTY FAIR &FfSmyii
CAMROSE REGIONAL EXHIBITION
Welcome Back
Springbank
ARB YOU JUST A MEMBER?
There are groups and group members who operate as if the President /Chaiirman is totally responsible for the entire leadership of the organization. Experience shows that groups are strongest when many members assume leadership roles.
When people feel they are "just members" of the organization, both the organization and its individual members suffer. Members become frustrated because they do not feel they have a role and do not feel free to express themselves. Others stop attending meetings because they become bored or do not feel they are contributing.
In a healthy, well functioning group, everyone contributes in some way at various times. Members are just as responsible for directing discussions, keeping the meeting on course or running programs. One member may present an idea and others help clarify, enhance, offer a compromise, summarize and call for a decision. It is every member's responsibility to maintain the organization, to help set goals, plan objectives and accept responsibility for the actions and strategies to get the job done.
Some roles are "maintenance" roles which help the group stick together. Other roles are "task" roles which help get the job done. An organization needs working members to fill these roles, small or large, in order to assure a healthy group.
So — "Just a Member"- Use the following checklists and you'll discover you are, "A Participating Member" of your organization. By being aware of your skills, you as a member can help the organization maintain itself by
strengthening your maintenance and task roles.
Maintenance Roles
] Listening - accepting other's ideas ] Encouraging - being friendly, praising others
] Harmonizing - finding common ground for agreement
] Relieving Tension - seeing humor in a situation; putting other ' s at ease
] Elaborating - adding facts or giving examples
] Setting Standards - maintaining a code of conduct
] Helping - enabling everyone to have a say Task Roles, which help the organization
remain productive. ] Initiating Ideas - getting the ball rolling
] Expressing Opinion - saying how you feel. ] Giving Information - Being prepared with
facts
] Seeking Information - questioning and
clarifying ideas, statements. ]BleUt>orating - adding facts, giving
related examples ] Steering - Keeping the group on course,
relating discussions to goals. ] Testing - examining soundness, feasibility of ideas ] Summarizing - restating major ideas and discussions
How did you do? Members often assume several of these leadership roles at different times in different situations without really being aware of their input. As a result, they look at themselves as "just a member". Small roles are important. Leadership is a function of what a person does, it does not always require a title beyond "MEMBER". Be more conscious about your role at the next meeting. YOU ARE A MEMBER, NOT, "JUST A MEMBER" .
4
MORE NEW IDEAS
UP COMING EVENTS
Fair workshop for students. This workshop is designed to inform participants about why we have fairs, why people exhibit, how to prepare their exhibits, what the judges are looking for and how they can contribute to the organizing and running of a fair.
Gleichen & District Agricultural Society plans to add this to their fair activities next summer. Interested? Contact Program Consultant.
your
M OUT
Please note the dates of these regional meetings. This is an opportunity for agricultural societies to share ideas and update your information. A mailout has been sent to your agricultural society.
Region 5 - Barrhead, Athabasca, Edson, Calmar areas
October 27 at Alberta Beach
Region 4 - Vermilion, Lac La Biche, Provost, Ryley areas November 14 at St. Paul
Region 6 - Peace River, Fort Vermilion, Bonanza, High Prairie areas November 17 at Fairview
Agricultural Societies Branch Expands 1 . . so do the McPhee family
Newest Member: Allan
Born to Andy & Elaine McPhee, Robbie & Patrick
Date: August 19, 1990
The Atlas of Alberta Lakes is now in print. Contact the University of Alberta Press, 141 Athabasca Hall, Edmonton, Alberta, T6G 2E8.
Agricultural Society Handbook
Have you received and are you using the big blue 3-ring organization binder we mailed you early this summer ???
AG IN THE CLASSROOM
Agriculture Ambassador Program, sponsored by Alberta Wheat Pool will be launched in Medicine Hat on November 24, with the special Agriculture School Fair.
Come one. Come All! There will be fun activities for both exhibitors and spectators .
For more information, contact: Cindy Dixon 2nd Floor, J.G. O'Donoghue Building 7000 - 113 Street, Edmonton, Alberta T6H 5T6 Phone: 427-2402
Regions 1, 2 & 3 - Fourth Annual Southern Area Mini Conference - "Break 100" November 23 & 24 at Taber
Annual Alberta Association of Agricultural Societies Conference and Canada Packer's Alberta Quilt competition finals
February, 1991 at Grande Prairie
5
LOOKING FOR A NEW BOARD MEMBER?
Try this short workshop with your present board members. It can be fun, enlightening, educational and result in a positive response to recruiting new members .
1: Divide the group into small groups of three persons.
2: Allow everyone time to pick up their favorite beverage on their way to join their group members.
3: Write the following categories on a board, flip chart paper or have them typed to present each group with a copy.
- Title of Position
- Purpose
- Responsibilities
- Qualifications
- Is Responsible To
- Training &/or Resources Provided (or needed )
- Time Estimates (Hours per week, month, year)
- List of events and services the board has planned.
- Ncime of person most responsible for each
- Asterisk events the new board member will be responsible for
4; Have each small group discuss and complete the job description (approximately 1/2 hour) .
5: Have small groups report back and
record the results on a flip chart for all
to see (no need to report duplication but
it's important to record all ideas)
6: As a total group, review the recorded
information and develop a single job
description.
7: You're now ready to turn the job, of finding a board member, over to your nominating committee.
This will have served as an in-service review of the position for present board members and will provide the nominating committee with a job description for recruiting new candidates for the position.
Encourage your committees to use this process to gain committee members and volunteers.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR ASSISTANCE IN ORGANIZING WORKSHOPS, CALL YOUR FRIENDLY PROGRAM CONSULTANT FROM ALBERTA
AGRICULTURAL AND COMMUNITY SERVICES,
Phone 427-2172 Northern Alberta (Reg. 4,5,6) - Louise Southern Alberta (Reg 1 2 3) - Rae
DM
COFFEE BREAK SHARING "8 Heads are Better Than 1"
This program is set up on "coffee break" discussions. A member of the agriculture society invites several of his/her community friends to join them in an "8-to-a-booth" or kitchen coffee break.
The coordinator sets the initial topic for discussion. The group generates future topics and program ideas. At times a guest may be invited to enhance the topic.
TRACTOR PEDAL PULL for kids. Terrific event I Contact Oyen, Big Country Agricultural Society for details or come to the November Mini Conference and find out.
Youth l^ricultural Awatreness Conference
Ask your school to work with you to offer a one-day conference for youth and/or children. Planning and organizing
committee should include young people.
Students could be divided into small cross-graded groups to attend sessions relating to the importance of agriculture in their lives.
Displays by local farmers, ranchers and merchants as well as Alberta Agriculture,
6
Funtastic Fund Raisers
WE ASK THE EXPERTS - YOU 1 to SHARE FOR THE NEXT NEWSLETTER
- Best fundraising idea. What, Why, When, How successful and Where, of course.
- Ideas to feature agriculture in your community or at fair.
- How do you involve youth?
Please, DO IT NOWl We need your help to reply to questions from other agricultural societies. Send us your idea and we'll send you a copy of allw the submissions we receive.
DON'T WAIT FOR THE DEADLINE, NOVEMBER 15, 1990. Mail to the Community Services
Newsletter, Room #201, J.G. O'Donoghue Building, 7000 - 113 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, T6H 5T6 or phone in to 427-2171.
INDEX Page
New Fairs 2
World Pumpkin Weigh-In 2
Signage Awards 3
Are You Just A Member? 4
More New Ideas 5
The Cat ' s Out Of The Bag 5
Up Coming Events 5
Ag. In The Classroom 5
Looking for A New Board Member? . . 6
Coffee Break Sharing 6
Youth Agricultural Awareness ... 6
MURPHY'S LAWS FOR PROVINCIAL ORGANIZATIONS
By Peter Fleming, Program Manager, Ontario Ministry of Agriculture & Food, Guelph
* There are calls for keeping people informed about what's going on, but concerns that there is to much paper flow/too much information.
* There are calls for greater consultation with local people, but concerns that we don't like survey. s
* There are calls for standards set at a provincial level, but concerns need flexibility and local diversity.
* There are calls for more resources to be developed provincial, but concerns that too much budget/staff resources are allocated to the provincial office.
* There are calls for new ideas/ways to doing things, but concerns that we must value our traditions.
* The provincial office/organization becomes concerned that local/regional costs are going up, but everyone else worries about how the provincial of f ice/organization spends its money.
* There are calls for greater input from all levels into provincial decisions, but concerns are raised about how long it takes for decisions to be made.
* In every large organization, the most consistent question that everyone asks, is "What does the provincial office/organization do?
7
U , I . o^ y J-
Agricultural Societies
Newsletter
OEC 1 8
ISSN: 0228-1090
DECEMBER 1990
I
Community Services /Rural Services Division, 7000 -113 St. Edmonton, Alta. T6H 5T6 Ph: 427-2171
THE BEAVERLODGE FAIR.
Submitted by: Susan Meyer, DHE, Grande Prairie
I'm proud of Beaver lodge. The volunteers who organized this first community fair should smile all winter. As an outsider, here are my views on why it was so successful .
1: No volunteer tried to do everything.
2: Every volunteer talked up the great work.
3: The fair was planned with the entertainment and education; exhibitors and spectators in mind.
The little details which ensure a friendly atmosphere and enough interest for everyone included:
1: Name tags on volunteers, judges and exhibitors - there always seemed to be someone approachable for conversation with a stranger.
2: Local judges who stayed for much of the public time.
3: After the judging, each convenor arranged their areas for viewing by the public. The backdrops and tables were works of art in themselves. 4: Displays of exhibits included the judges name and posters describing judging standards .
5: The area had business displays in the center, ensuring a people presence in all parts of the room, and judged events on the outside.
6: The committee piggy backed this first community fair on the annual children's fair which boosted both events in importance .
I heard the pride of volunteers who were turning to plans for a bigger and better show next year. If my address were Beaver lodge, I'd go for better but I might forget bigger. The community feeling is too precious to waste on an event to show off to neighbours - in my opinion.
10 HOT TIPS ON HOW TO GET GRANTS FASTER
1: Send the grant in as soon as it's complete.
Fair grants can come in any time after the fair and operating grants can be submitted as soon as you have reached your maximum or as close as possible to your year end,
2 : Match bills and cancelled cheques
We cannot accept one without the other. Be careful with this step. Time does cost money! It is helpful if the appropriate bill and cheque are copied together.
3: We do not pay late charges or fees charged by banks, etc. Please subtract these from the totals before you submit them.
4: Copy the full bill
The auditors are not pleased with just a line which outlines the amount. This tells nothing of who the bill is for, how the charges are set, etc.
5: January 15th is an important deadline.
Until that date, you are in good standing by your last year end. January 16th we start holding any grants for societies who have not submitted a list of officers, an activity report and a financial statement completed by an accountant ICh. CGA, CMA) .
A Special "Thank You"
To the Taber Exhibition Association and ^ Agricultural Society for hosting the 4th Annual Southern Area Agricultural Societies Conference. It believe this was a first in their updated facility which offered a few chills and thrills. We all learn how things work through experience; they handled their end well.
An extra "hug" for Jean Holman, Pat Goruk, Sharon Shockey, Maureen Paterson and Tilly Gamble for their extra efforts. Ross Gibb, for the added humor which I've dubbed "Gibbers", we didn't fit enough of these into our rushed day. "Gibbers" has delighted all 4 years of our conference.
6: If the person who does your financial statement uses none of the designations (CA, CGA, CMA) he/she probably does not qualify under the regulations. We've had to ask several groups to get their statement redone .
7 : There are some expenses that are not eligible .
- Capital improvements are not operating
expenses
- Garbage pick up is not eligible
- Judge's expenses on a fair claim form (we pay separately)
- Prize money on a form called Statement of Fair Expenses
(They are already on the other form)
8: Don't cut, staple and paste many little pieces of information onto one sheet.
The photocopier will not accept this so it must all be taken apart before copying.
9: Claim only one fiscal year per forml
10 : Insurance
We need an invoice to show your cost and
your cheque to show you paid it.
You don't need to sent us a copy ^
of your policy. ^^y>-;^4-^
Vauxhall Agricultural Society for sponsoring a coffee break and providing entertainment.
Big Country Agricultural Society and Empress/Bindloss Agricultural Society for supporting the conference by sponsoring sessional presenters.
Gifts and door prizes, sponsored by Empress Foods, Taber Exhibition Association Agricultural Society and the Taber Equestrian Club.
65 RESOURCE PEOPLE WEATHER THE STORM
Rose Jardine of Big Country Agricultural Society and her team, Helen Ball, Jim Ball and Anne Goodine shared new ideas for fairs land brought their International pedal pull tractor for a demonstration/try out. Our Dh in Taber, Tilley Gamble, Wayne Bodin of South East Alberta Agricultural Society (Manyberries) and Anne Goodine were w'olunteer "competitors". Rose Jardine, spokesperson, presented her material like a 'pro'- short, sweet, visible and so was Rose, i
Pr. Patel, Treasurer of the Smpress/Bindloss Agricultural Society Iphared the method he uses to claim operating grants for four community facilities. He provided a well-prepared jLtemized account of how to present your fclaim so even Rae can review it for processing in a maximum of 10 minutes, ^he key is organization.
I
These presentations are proof that our agricultural society members are the best resources for each other and are capable presenters .
A representation from the Lethbridge jdandicap Riding Association, Randy Mayne expressed that new insights were gained by attending and sharing with agricultural Societies. The benefit was mutual as he ^hared their program and resources with the ^roup. We need to work at getting more organizations within the communities jinvolved and sharing toward community jpducation and development.
1
llJlint Dunford, Catalyst for Economic pevelopment Consulting Ltd., Lethbridge, putlined clearly and concisely the resources available through Alberta (Tourism.
'Don Gedlamen, Executive Director, sponsored oy the Pacific National Exhibition Association, British Columbia, shared British Columbia's visions and future fplans .
Irene Collinge, Region II Director for AAAS , presented an update of their progress and terrific ideas for agricultural programs.
Other sessions:
GST and Not for Profit Organizations A look into the Future of Fairs, and A Plan to get and Keep Volunteers
were facilitated by Agricultural and
Community Services staff.
The "Trade Your Mug" was a fun break. Sharon Shockey, a Taber hostess rescued those who forgot mugs by rushing in compli- mentary mugs from Shockey Construction Ltd.
A spokesman from each of the 15 agricultural societies represented shared their accomplishments in a nutshell presentation.
Big Country won the case of orange juice from Empess Foods for coming the furthest to attend the conference.
Vauxhall won the mystery prize with 14 members present - case of goodies from Empress Foods.
The Vauxhall Impromptu Players, in their usual jovial manner, provided entertainment in the manner of skits. We must solicit more agricultural society talent at next year's conference. It was great!!
The door prize, a lovely "Country Broom Mouse" donated by the Taber Equestrian Club, also went to a Vauxhall delegate.
All agricultural society members present shared ideas and contributed to a successful day. What a wealth of knowledge and experience!!
The weatherman insisted we close earlier than we planned so he could harass people on their way home and we obliged. (He said he'd try to be nicer next year.)
[MARK NOVEMBER 22 AND 23, 1991 ON YOUR CALENDAR FOR NEXT YEAR'S CONFERENCE]
r
^^^^
Farm Family Treat Managing Agriculture for Profit Kananaskis, March 3-6, 1991.
An opportunity for farm families to be entertained and informed, with this year's theme of Farm Business is Family Business.
This conference is for management teams that want to make or keep their operations among the most innovative, productive, profitable in the Canadian agriculture industry.
Numerous speakers will cover a variety of topics of interest to farm families. Details on the conference are available through your local District Agriculture Office.
Consider this a shared present that will be of lasting value to your farm family.
FREE
Stocking Stuffers for Your Agricultural Society Directors, Members or Yourself
Contact your District Agriculture Office for the new Fact sheets on Leadership. Many areas of leadership and organizational skills are covered in these easy to read materials .
What about a video party?
The video's available from the agriculture library can be borrowed for some future meetings or a Friday Night family meeting. The list of what's hot is also available at your District Office.
Recycle and Make Music
A pamphlet that describes some easy to make musical instruments which you can build using used household items.
4-H Anniversary Cookbook
The 4-H clubs are selling a 4-H Anniversary Cookbook which would add to anyone's culinary library. This project is intended to be part of the build up to 1992 and celebrations of 75 years of 4-H in Alberta.
Individual cookbooks can be ordered directly for $15.00 plus $3.00 for shipping and handling.
Make the cheque or money order payable to: Alberta 4-H 75th Anniversary Committee, c/o Benita Fossen Box 96
Cadogan, Alberta TOB OTO.
This handout is available through our office - Agricultural and Community Services. See the check off sheet at the back of this newsletter.
FLIP A COIN?
Article by: Dorene Slater, DHE, Drumheller
Every day we make decisions. Each decision has several steps to it, but we are not always conscious of going through the process. As the decisions get more difficult, we get hung up in the process and will even go so far as not to decide!
There are a number of reasons for not making a decision. Lack of information, time and money can hamper the decision making process. Our individual perceptions color what we see and can prevent us from finding a solution.
The human brain is a barrier to making decisions. It retains only a small amount of information in the useable memory and is (limited in its ability to calculate the best choice.
Despite all this, making a difficult decision can become easier if you follow seven simple steps.
1: Define the real problem. Think about how it affects you and why. Is it a major or minor problem?
2: List the alternatives. You might feel that there aren't any, but are you sure? |Open the door of your mind and let ideas enter. Make a list of the solutions from the obvious to the insane.
3: Assess the alternatives. Throw out the illegal, impossible and unrelated items. Look at how each alternative relates to the problem.
4: Research the alternatives. Set a time limit to complete this step so that you
■can go ahead with actually making a
Idecision.
5: Choose one alternative. Fear of failure or of being wrong is a major hurdle to choosing a solution. A poor decision is better than no decision. And a partial solution based on the facts that you have is better than no solution.
6: Do it. Put your choice into action.
7: Review it. Keeping an eye on the expected results will enable you to catch minor problems before they become major ones .
The final step is to accept the responsibility of the decision. If it was good, enjoy the success. If it could have been better, accept that, then make adjustments and continue.
lanta's Specials
GST FOR NOT FOR PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS February 1, 1991 - 7:00pm - 9:00pm Red Deer Provincial Building
Sponsored by Alberta Agriculture, Agricultural & Community Services, and Red Deer District Office. Open to agricultural societies and other community organizations .
For further information, call the Agricultural & Community Services Branch, 427-2171.
DEADLINE: 4:30 pm, January 28, 1991 Contact: Lynn Stegman, Red Deer Office Phone: 340-5364
Rural Leadership Training Rural Education and Development Association (REDA) will be holding Leadership Skills Workshops at the Goldeye Center. Level 1, January 21 - 25, 1991 and Level II, February 18 - 22, 1991.
These week-long, intensive learning and participating workshops have been very highly rated by those attending in the past. For more details, contact REDA at 14815 - 119 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta, T5L 2N9 or phone 451-5959.
MASSIVE SHARING CAMPAIGN A SUCCESS
Through three regional meetings held across Northern Alberta, 53 agricultural societies have gained new ideas and knowledge. All three sessions had presentations on the Alberta Association of Agricultural Societies and the dreaded GST.
In October, Alberta Beach hosted an excellent one-day meeting. Highlights of the day included a sharing session on new activity ideas, recycling projects that were very successful, volunteers and how to get more, agricultural connections of agricultural societies and a good discussion of the future role of agricultural societies.
In November, St. Paul, hosted a one-day meeting with Monica King, local District Home Economist chairing a jam-packed day of information. The future of rural Alberta and the agricultural society role was an interesting session and Alberta Recreation and Parks personnel presented an outline of their services. Agricultural programming, volunteers and meeting skills all added to an informative day.
Also in November, a meeting of the Peace region agricultural societies was hosted by the group at Fairview. A lot of good sharing of ideas was a major focus of the day with agricultural education and the image of farmers to the urban public providing a lively discussion. Local MLA, Glen Clegg was available to listen to some of the concerns of agricultural societies. New ideas for volunteer involvement and improving the fair were shared.
The Peace Region is excited about hosting the annual provincial conference of agricultural societies in Grande Prairie in February 1991. From the ideas that were generated as part of their discussions, visiting agricultural societies will be in for an excellent meeting.
!
^ HAPPT NEW YEAR ★ HAPR- NEW YEAR * HAPPY NEW YEAR ★ HAPfT ^
gig^Qf^v
i RESOLUTIONS FOR 1991
II: We will have all our year end forms Including the financial review done by our accountant mailed to Agricultural and Community Services by January 15.
: Our fair plans will be started early,
(a) judges will be arranged at least by May;
(b) fair books will be sent to Rae or Louise at least 6 weeks prior to our fair.
: We will continue to strive to respond o the needs of our community and cooperate i|k;ith others in our similar objectives.
!^ ii
I^ND RAISING IDEA
[n our last newsletter we asked for your fund raising ideas so that we could share phem across the province. Lucky for you, f^ou can still share and we offer this Bxample of something your agricultural society could do as a fund raiser.
:ontact the Heritage Park Fall Fair uommittee and Sell the booklet:
. . . and The Winner Is,
Almost Everything a Newcomer Needs to Know
ibout competing in Old Time, Country and
?mall Town Fairs, (including prize winning ecipes ) .
\ single copy of this book is available for
54.75, orders for 24 or more books can be purchased at $3.75 per book.
4: Our membership and volunteers will be continuously updated on our plans, both short and long term.
5: All volunteers will be shown appreciation, at least a "thank you".
6: Our agricultural society will continue to try ideas and new activities in support of agriculture.
7: We will share with other agricultural societies and the Agricultural and Community Services Branch - Andy, Anne, Rae and Louise to make everyone as happy as they deserve to bell
This booklet would be a welcome addition for your fair convenor and new exhibitors. The book covers hints on exhibiting in: Arts
Handicrafts and Sewing
Children in Competition
Home Cooking (including recipes).
Horticulture
Judges
Small Livestock and Pets
There are references to the judging standards available through the Alberta Agriculture, Publications. Prize winning recipes and advice on exhibiting through the booklet. A quote from the booklet describes it all, "To foster the preservation of agricultural fairs, we- truly hope that this book will encourage you to become a competitor and, perhaps, a volunteer" .
For copies contact:
Heritage Park Fall Fair c/o Betty Wheatley
1900 Heritage Drive, SW
Calgary, Alberta
T2V 2X3 Or, phone: (403) 255-1182
BLIZZARD BLOWS IN AGRICULTURAL AMBASSADOR PROGRAM
The Medicine Hat Exhibition and Stampede hosted the first Agricultural Ambassador School Fair, Saturday, November 24 in the Cypress Center.
The school fair was a terrific success. :260 student displays were seen by the attending community and dignitaries. The students and spectators enjoyed a "Taste of Alberta" lunch (sponsored by Alberta businesses) to kick off the Agricultural Ambassador Program.
Congratulations to the Bashaw and District Agticultural Society and Youth
the agricultural society board has a Junior feoard Member Program with an active junior Livestock Show Committee. This committee is also a part of the board and attends board meetings .
The luncheon was followed by speeches from the Honourable Jim Horsman, Minister of Federal & Intergovernmental Affairs; Honourable Shirley McClellan, Associate Minister of Agriculture and Mr. Lawrence Nicholson, Regional Representative for the Alberta Wheat Pool.
Mr. Nicholson then handed out the divisional high point awards . . . Three of the four winners were in attendance to receive their awards .
The community then toured the student and agricultural industry displays while enjoying agricultural activities like, a sheep shearing demonstration, media hog calling contest, calf roping, butter making and Texas line dancers.
The weather failed to cooperate but those attending enjoyed a fun-filled afternoon, learning about agriculture.
This program will continue to grow next year. Contact Betty Gabert, Coordinator of the Agriculture in the Classroom Program for more details:
Room 200, J.G. O'Donoghue Building 7000 - 113 Street Edmonton, Alberta T6H 5T6
Phone: 427-2402
4-.
AN AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY WORKSHOP
They are now negotiating for junior board niembers to attend meetings and to become full members of the board, responsible for keeping the board up to date on their community needs and to help organize activities and events.
Contact: Jackie Northey, Secretary Bashaw & District Agricultural Society Box 550
BASHAW, Alberta TOB OHO Phone: 372-4021
Contact Rae Hunter or Louise Welsh with your requests and needs. We offer a variety of organizational workshops available to agricultural societies who have identified a need for - Planning Workshops, Leadership Development, Fair Workshops and Community Involvement.
A complete list of workshops is available by calling or writing to this office. This offer is free and only requires that you book well in advance to avoid disappointment .
REQUESTS FOR PUBLICATIONS;
Copy of Agricultural & Community Services, Workshops for Agricultural Societies
Recycle and Make Music
Help? (List your ideas for future newsletter articles )
Please send the above order to:
Name :
Address :
Postal Code:
###############################################################
Please return the following form no later than MARCH 1, 1991 to:
Agricultural & Community Services Branch
Alberta Agriculture
#201, J.G. O'Donoghue Building
7000 - 113 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T6H 5T6
1991 FAIR DATES/ACTIVITIES
Name of Agricultural Society
Contact: Name:
Address :
Phone :
Fair Theme:
Location of Fair:
(Over)
- 2 -
Please check (/) the activities listed below that are included in your fair, enter the date and any comments on special features of the activity you would like others to be aware of.
Check (/) Show/ Activity Date Special Features
Seed Show
Bench Show
Horticulture Show
Livestock Show/Sale
4-H Support
Trade Show
Parade
Midway
Rodeo
Other (Children's
Activities , BBQ,
Ball Tournament)
Is your agricultural society planning any special celebrations or hosting other events/activities you would like others to know about? If so, please list these below.
Event /Activity
Date( s )
Comments
Agricultural Societies
Newsletter
ISSN: 0228-1090
PEDAL TRACTOR PULL - Oyen Big Country Agricultural Society
APRIL 1991
S?upport to other community organizations
C3t>jectives - to improve agriculture, horticulture and homemaking in rural Alberta
C^ommunity cooperation
Investment in the future of rural communities
nthusiastic volunteers
"-L'raining for young leaders
Ulndividual achievements
Am E^Iducation of consumers
.^IuX^KJ Sharing with over 300
AGRICULTURE agricultural societies
Community Services /Rural Services Division, 7000 -113 St Ednr-onton, Alta. T6H 5T6 Ph: 427-2171
Do you ever feel like you have taken on too many commitments and there isn't enough hours in a day. Anne Bennett certainly does. Her hubby brought this list from one of his meetings and they'd like to share it with you.
PLANTING SCHEDULE FOR MEETING GOERS
First plant four rows of peas: . Presence . Promptness . Preparation . Perseverance
Next plant four rows of lettuce:
. Let us obey rules and regulations . Let us be true to our obligations . Let us be faithful to duty . Let us be loyal and unselfish
Then plant three rows of squash: . Squash gossip . Squash indifference . Squash criticism
Finally, plant four rows of turnips: . Turn up for meetings . Turn up with a smile . Turn up with new ideas . Turn up with a determination to do the job
I think these pointers are good, and with this advice, meetings should be more enjoyable. Anne Bennett for those new to agricultural societies, is the office based part of our team in Agricultural and Community Services.
2 -
INDEX
Page
Pedal Tractor Pull - Oyen Cover
Planting Schedule 2
Community Highlites 3
"Mark These Dates" 5
GST Questions & Answers 6
Feature Article - Do Animals Have Basic Moral Rights - CAE Conference .... 7
Resources 9
1991 Census of Agriculture 10
IMPORTAN T MESSAGE
(Please forward to Fair Judges)
If you are interested in forming a Fair Judges' Association to share updates, information, discuss standards, judge's training, apprenticeship program, etc. Contact: Mary Burrows
Phone: 843-2076
(After 7pm is best)
Mary is the chairperson of the Judging Committee, Alberta Horticulture Association. They have a training and apprenticeship program to ensure a standard of judging of Horticulture in Alberta.
SHORT NOTES AND SCRIBBLINGS
Project Development - A "real world" experi- ence! Any truth in the following?? Six Phases of a Project
1. Enthusiasm
2. Disillusionment
3. Panic
4. Search for the Guilty
5. Punishment of the Innocent
6. Praise & Honors for the Non-Participants
COMMUNITY HIGHLITES
GREAT BUSINESS SENSE
ALDER FLATS Community Agricultural Society - Revision of by-laws include, "Audit - 3. The accounts of the society shall undergo a financial review each year but every third year (beginning 1993) a complete audit will be done by the society's auditor in advance of each annual meeting. The audited or reviewed financial statement of the financial affairs of the society shall be presented to the annual meeting." This shows consideration for the board of directors position in handling public funds!
TERRIFIC OPPORTUNITY
BLACKFALDS District Agricultural Society takes advantage of the fact that cable stations are required by law to allow a portion of their air time to promoting local communities. With the cooperation of Shaw Cable in Red Deer, the agricultural society has presented topics to the public such as, potato farming, horticulture, strawberry farming, home made sausage making, v-line fencing, tree pruning, plant care, local businesses and eating places, school science fair and local talent. These topics are
interspersed with announcements of local events and activities. A good way to increase their visibility and inform the public .
NEW TO ALBERTA IDEA
BIG COUNTRY (OYEN) Agricultural Society In addition to demonstrating their Pedal Tractor Pull at the Taber Mini Conference, Herb Norris has drawn plans for the pull-a-long which are available, upon request, from our office. For further information regarding this new to Alberta event for the youngsters, contact Herb at 664-2709. Thanks to Rose Jardine, president of the agricultural society and her team for sharing this information.
A VOLUNTEER BUSINESS
CROSSROADS Agricultural Society president's report. "So with these challenges facing us, our Board of Directors, who were chosen for their skills as visionaries, community leaders, builders, promoters at a government level with abilities to do computerized accounting and record keeping at a professional level, had to be transformed into a Board of Directors involved in the day-to-day operation of a business that provides various kinds of community services. In this area, every local resident is involved in some way with new ideas, the reinforcing of old ideas, praises, criticisms, opinions, etc. which must all be compiled to come up with what is best for the majority. To complicate matters even more, many times the good ideas are gently presented and the unfavorable ideas are very tenaciously presented, as the less you know about a topic the more sure you are that you are right because you don't know all the pit falls in your thinking. The Board being the very flexible and talented people that they are, were able to meet this challenge."
Well presented comments from the President and a reflection of many agricultural society boards and situations. Note the
WORKING TO INCLUDE THEIR PUBLIC
RAYMOND Agricultural Society published their annual objectives as well as their new Board of Directors and they are directed at supporting leadership and agriculture. These "new kids on the block" are old 'pros'. Congratulations for another good year.
- 4
NO DOUBT WHAT THEY'RE ABOUT
WETASKIWIN Agricultural Society new membership cards printed with the agricultural society's Belief and Mission Statements reflect just a few hours of the Board of Director's on going planning time. They have progressed in their planning and now have developed priorities for two years. The set objectives and action plans for the current year are well into the first objective - to increase visibility and active membership. This process came about through their commitment to better service. The planning workshop that Wetaskiwin is involved in is offered, at no cost through Alberta Agriculture, Agricultural & Community Services Branch. Call your program consultant, Rae or Louise.
This certifies that
is a member in good standing
PRESIDENT
WETASKIWIN AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY BELIEF STATEMENT
We believe that it is important to maintain an agricultural society to promote a broad awareness of agriculture in the Wetaskiwin area by improving community spirit and individual lifestyles.
MISSION STATEMENT
Our purpose is to promote, preserve and improve agriculture in the community, by creating opportunites for involvement and by making people aware of our society and its goals. This is to be achieved by educational programs, community service, social events and other functions.
Reprinted from the Alberta LEAD Newsletter, (Leadership Education for Agricultural Development) Features Wetaskiwin
When people ask, "Why does your group exist" What is your answer? "My job was either to increase memberships or find out why we haven't been able to increase memberships". When Ross Foulston took over membership recruitment for the Wetaskiwin Agricultural Society, he quickly realized that even after one year of seeing what the agricultural society did, he was not clear why they did it.
When approaching potential members, the society's lack of direction made it difficult. "How can you get interest from farmers if you are not dealing with their interests?" asks Foulston.
When he expressed his frustration to other agricultural society board members, Foulston found that others felt much the same way. Delwyn Weaver, the current president, describes others concerns. The society, •had been going nowhere the past six years". They had built up some funds but were divided as to how to spend it.
With the help of Alberta Agriculture staff, the group developed a step by step planning process. To date the steps covered are the planning basics including: Philosophy, Purpose or Mission Statement and Goals.
According to Weaver, the first session was a pleasant surprise. "We found that our
(purpose) was the same for most everybody.
19 out of 20 people agreed."
Both Weaver and Foulston point out that the board entered the process with optimism. Weaver advises, "go in with an open mind, that's for sure".
The process is not yet completed. Consequently there has been little impact on general membership. Still, the board's mood remains upbeat. We will keep you posted of future outcomes.
NORTHERN ALBERTA
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SOUTHERN ALBERTA
Northern Alberta Agricultural Society Meetings. All Saturday meetings
( 10am - 4pm) .
November 2 - West lock for all the Northwest Area Agricultural Societies
November 16 - Fairview for all the Peace Area Agricultural Societies
November 23 - Ranfurly for all the Northeast Agricultural Societies
Send in your agenda ideas and suggestions early (by June) to Louise Welsh.
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR VOLUNTEERS
VOLUNTEER MANAGEMENT CONFERENCE Edmonton April 4 & 5, 1991
This conference is being co-sponsored by: Grant MacEwan Community College, Volunteer Action Centre and Volunteers Association. By attending this 15th Annual Conference you can discover and develop your leadership skills, and learn dynamic concepts for enhancing and revitalizing your volunteers. Topics ;
- Eight Sources of Leadership Power
- Leadership Styles and Impact on Others
- Leading People/Organizations Through Change
- Key Qualities and Skills of Exemplary Leaders
Brochures are available. Contact: Resource Center for Voluntary Organizations Grant MacEwan Community College Phone: 441-4623
Southern Alberta Agricultural Society Mini Conference. Mark November 22-23, 1991 on your calendar. Location, to be confirmed, somewhere in Region II.
Send agenda suggestions to Rae Hunter.
Agricultural society members did such a professional job in the presentations that Rae aims to utilize more of the local agricultural society resources this year.
If you'd like to learn or hear something from another agricultural society, please include your request with your agenda suggestions. It's you're input that has made the Mini Conferences a success.
DO IT NOW!
VITALIZE '91
Edmonton June 6, 7 & 8
The Wild Rose Foundation (Alberta Government Foundation funded by lottery proceeds, whose mandate is to assist community volunteer organizations) is hosting VITALIZE '91.
This Provincial Volunteer Conference will provide Alberta's volunteers with education, information-sharing and re-vitalization .
Volunteers will have the choice of approximately 30 different session topics relating to volunteer boards, committee members and front-line volunteers of non-profit community service organizations. A chartered bus system, "Hop-a-Bus" , will run from various locations across the province for early-registered delegates. Contact: Winston McConnell, Special
Projects Consultant, Wild Rose Foundation, 2100 Royal LePage Building, 10130 - 103 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, T5J 3N9, Phone: 422-9305 (Toll-free via your Government R.I.T.E. Operator).
JUNE A, 1991 - CENSUS DAY — . — y
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Question; What is a charity? What is a ?????????? "Non-Profit Organization?"
GST QUESTIONS & ANSWERS This column will be a new feature written by Revenue Canada, Customs & Excise. Please send us your questions for the June newsletter .
Question: Who must register for GST purposes?
Answer; If a person's annual sales from taxable goods and services are more than $30,000 a year, the person must register for the GST. Please remember that taxable goods and services include zero-rated goods and services, but do not include exempt sales and sales of capital property.
Under the GST, a "person" is considered to be an individual, a corporation, a partnership, a charity, an association or any kind of organization.
Charities and Non Profit Organizations that are small suppliers will not be required to register for the GST, nor will they be required to collect the GST on goods and services they provide. However, charities and non profit organizations below this $30,000 threshold may voluntarily register for the GST, which means they will be able to claim input tax credits on purchases used in taxable activities.
Question: Who can claim a rebate?
Answer; Charities and qualifying non- profit organizations may claim a rebate of 50 percent rebate of the GST they paid on expenses used to provide exempt goods and services .
Qualifying non-profit organizations means those organizations that receive 40 percent or more of their funding from governments. NOTE: A person does not have to be registered for GST in order to be eligible for the rebate.
Answer; An organization is considered to be "non-profit" if it is organized and operated solely for a purpose other than making a profit. Charities and registered amateur athletic organizations are not considered to be non-profit organizations. The term "charity" refers both to charitable and national amateur athletic organizations or organizations registered under the Income Tax Act.
WHAT IS CONSENSUS? By: Chuck Bokor, Rural Leadership Consultant Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food, Guelph.
Consensus is a method of decision making in groups in which all members actively discuss the issues surrounding the problem. The group thus pools the knowledge and experi- ence of all its members. Any final decision must be supported by each member of the group. When your group reaches the point where each person can say, "Well, even though it may not be exactly what I want, at least I can live with the idea and support it", then the group has reached consensus.
Here are some tips to help you:
1. Prepare your own position as well as possible prior to discussing the problem with the group.
2. Listen carefully to the views of others
- consider the other person's viewpoint before insisting on yours.
3 . Express your own opinion and explain it fully, so that the rest of the group has the benefit of your thinking.
4. Explore as many views as possible - give everyone a change to be heard.
5. Look for a most acceptable solution - everyone should come out a winner - there are no losers.
6. Deal with conflict with a positive view
- the group's willingness to disagree means that it is committed to the task, is testing how good an idea is, or ensures that many possibilities are being explored.
7. Do not use conflict reducing techniques such as voting or compromising.
ANIMAL WELFARE OR ANIMAL RIGHTS?
That is the Question
The following are exerpts from Al Hickey & Adrian Cooper, speakers at the Canadian Association of Exhibitions Conference, in Vancouver, February 1991.
Some of the traditional activities we present for entertainment and fund raising at our community events may not be ethical. Perhaps we've never thought about it or even been aware of animal rights .
There is a difference between Animal Rights and Animal Welfare. Al Hickey BC Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals assured the audience they are not the same at all.
Animal Rights - Believe humans have no inherent mandate to abuse animals in any way (not for food or otherwise) advocate setting all animals free. He reminded us that this would cause havoc; there 'd be no need for farms, animals not bred for wild would be subject to disease and disaster.
Animal Welfare - believe the animals should be kept to a practical minimum and handling should be with the most sensitive measures possible in mind. We must learn to manage animals with due respect to the dignity of the animals involved (pig greasing, rodeos, chicken slot machines are not presented with dignity in mind and some animals are harmed and harassed) .
Al believes a code of ethics for fairs is needed to manage the animal rights issues and have animal welfare in mind. He encouraged the audience to solicit cooperation from others in developing and maintaining the code, ie: Veterinarians, Animal Welfare, producers, etc..
ADRIAN G. CCX>PER COMMUNICATIONS presented 10 Basic Premises that may be applied to the exhibition of and sport use (rodeo) of animals. Source Veterinary Ethics,
Tannentaum, J.S., Willicims and Wilkins, Baltimore, 1989 with much flexibility...
1. People may benefit from agricultural and sport animals ie: food, fiber, entertainment, draft, companionship.
2. Agricultural and sport animal clients are entitled to a fair profit and may factor economic considerations into management decisions.
3. The role of public demand in the determination of how agricultural and sport animals are treated must be not underestimated .
4. Agricultural and sport animals have interests that must be taken into account.
5. Individual animals count.
6. These animals have basic moral rights ( see later ) .
7. Although assessment of mental states is an important consideration in the determination of animal interests, one must avoid exaggerated claims about these states.
8. All other things being equal, a husbandry method or course of veterinary care that causes animals less pain, suffering, distress or discomfort is preferred to one that causes them more.
9. All other things being equal care that gives animals more positive mental states or greater well being is preferable.
10. It is often unhelpful to maintain that animals should be spared "unnecessary" pain, suffering, distress or discomfort, or that they should be treated "humanely" when this is from a purely anthropomorphic* interest.
Adrian's premise is that domestic animals have no real natural rights in a man engineered world. They most certainly do have the right to be treated kindly and with a basic respect for life. Adrian noted that minimum animal rights referred to by the Brambell Committee 1972 were sufficient freedom of movement for an animal ;
1. to get up 4. turn around
2. lie down 5. strengthen its limbs
3. groom normally
Adrian felt that we need to look more at animal welfare than rights. So what is animal welfare? This is certainly under discussion and new university chairs are needed in this area.
Adrian offered some suggestions . . absence of suffering; the degree to which animals can adapt without suffering to the environments designed and designated by man; absence of methods for handling and management that are so extreme as to induce stress or its overt symptoms distress, on animals. Stress is understood to mean extensive physiological and behavioral disturbances in the animal resulting from noxious environmental factors .
Adrian's thoughts are that we clearly need to do more work and we will eventually make different definitions for different species .
The Veterinarian as an animal advocate.
Adrian felt that the Veterinarian is uniquely able to judge . .
whether an animal is being overworked to the extent that it is threatened with acute or chronic injury or disease, and
whether resting, euthanasia, or shipment for slaughter is the only feasible way of preventing short or long term suffering;
whether an animal is too injured or broken down to be used for breeding without causing suffering or discomfort;
whether an animal needs special nutrition, treatment or care;
whether a condition suffered by one or several members of a herd is likely to spread to other animals unless action is taken;
whether animals require professional care to be maintained at an adequate level of welfare.
The word welfare is used without a strict definition. But Adrian questioned who else is the animals' best advocate, if not the veterinarian.
He states that, for exhibitions and sport events to continue, they must be pro-active. There is a need for animal welfare and to use committees made up of staff, cowboys, SPCA inspectors and veterinarians. Likely they would also benefit greatly from the input of outside consultants .
Producers are concerned about
animal welfare Taken from, "The Mercury", Tofield, March 19, 1991
Some traditional livestock production practices will have to change in the future, says central Alberta rancher Ron Bennett.
Traditional branding, castration and dehorning are three practices in the cattle industry he expects will be replaced or made less stressful on livestock through new technol- ogy and better producer education.
But at the same time, he says the agriculture indusuy has to do a bet- ter job now of communicating with its own members and the public.
"Most ranchers and other live- stock producers today treat their animals with care and respect," he says. "But the message has to be delivered clearly that poor manage- ment that results in any mistreat- ment of livestock won't be tolerated by the public, the govern- ment, or the livestock industry."
Bennett operates a 100 head cow/calf ranch near Alix, in central Alberta. He's a member of the Al-
berta Cattle Commission and chair- man of an ACC committee dealing with animal welfare issues.
"As ranchers we have a dual responsibility," he says. "We must make sure our industry is raising livestock in the most humane way possible, and at the same time, we need to increase public awareness about the clean, safe, caring live- stock production practices com- monly used today."
He says while most livestock are produced for slaughter, that doesn't mean they can be allowed to be mistreated.
Dr. Terry Church, director of Al- berta Agriculture's animal health division, says ongoing research may hold the key for developing improved livestock production practices.
"The industry and animal wel- fare groups have flagged certain traditional production practices used not only in Alberta, but around
the world where changes are needed," explains Church.
These include branding of cattle, raising veal calves in closed hutches, housing hens in cages to produce eggs, and confining sows in stalls which restrict freedom of movement for long periods.
"We hope research and new technology will show us ways to eliminate some practices, while at the same time maintaining efficient and economical production," says Church.
He explains work is being done to develop an clectionic identifica- tion system for cattle that would eliminate branding. Studies are being conducted in Canada and Europe to determine a better means of housing egg producing hens. And computerized feeding systems have been developed that allow hog producers to raise sows in group pens instead of individual stalls.
"The message has to be made to the public that just because we raise hundreds or thousands of hens, hogs or cattle on livestock opera- tions, that doesn't mean they are being mistreated or not cared for properly."
Dr. Jeff Rushen, an animal wel- fare and animal behavior specialist at the University of Alberta is look- ing at improved methods of hog production, for example.
He says, while animals can't talk, there are sophisticated and ef- fective ways to monitor behavior and growth that tell whether an animal is under stress or uncom- fortable in its environment.
"First we need to separate emo- tion from fact," Rushen says. "Wc need to clearly identify what rear- ing practices are stressful on the animal, and then develop imagina- tive ways to improve those condi- tions."
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FUNDRAISING FOR CHARITIES
New rules for fundraisers, which became effective January 1990, may change how charities fundraiee. Alberta's Public Contributions Act now has increased re- quirements for campaigns run by professional fundraisers, and fewer restrictions on smaller volunteer-run campaigns.
Hiring a professional fundraiser to conduct a fundraising campaign will require that:
The professional fundraiser must be licensed by Alberta Consumer and Corporate Affairs, must post a $25,000 surety bond and must act as trustee for all monies received during a campaign.
- Your charity must have a written contract with the fundraiser.
Other changes to the Act include new accounting regulations. If you raise more than $5,000 you must file a financial statement within 60 days of the end of the campaign. The financial statement may be a financial report or an independently audited financial statement. Detail the amount collected, expenses and a breakdown how the money was used. Audited statements will be required when a professional fundraiser is hired, or if you raise over $50,000 from your volunteer campaign.
Anyone representing your charity in a fundraising capacity must reveal basic information regarding the campaign, such as the purpose for which the proceeds will be used or the percentage of funds collected that will actually be used for the charity.
For further information or to request the pamphlet "Planning a Fundraising Campaign: The Public Contributions Act", contact your local office of Alberta Consumer & Corporate Affairs .
"VOLUNTEERS AND THE LAW"
A booklet is available from:
The Public Legal Education Society 150 - 900 Howe Street
Vancouver, British Columbia, V6Z 2M4 (Approximate Cost - $5.00)
SUGGESTIONS - FUNDRAISING BY MAIL
- Know your audience before writing your letter.
- Eliminate trivia in your message
- Remember: women give the majority of gifts; men give the larger gifts.
- Throw away your old brochure; don't use them up.
- Don't be afraid to ask for more money.
- Use newsletters.
- Use the words and phrases that "Pull" and "Tug" .
- Remember to use the "P.S." — often, this is all your prospect reads.
- Use a visually-appealing mailing piece.
- Get your name on every mailing list.
- Use pictures to maximum effect.
- Have a professional look over your copy.
- Create new ideas for your donors to appreciate .
RISING ENERGY PRICES
There are a lot of things you can do to use less energy and reduce your costs - which helps our environment. Helpful tips to conserve energy are available from the GOVERNMENT OF CANADA. To obtain a free package of brochures, call the toll-free energy line: 1-800-267-5166 (Monday Friday, business hours).
You can also receive the Energy Savings Package by writing to: Energy Publications, 580 Booth Street, Ottawa, Ontario, KlA 0E4.
REDA - Rural Education Development Assoc.,
offers a variety of leadership workshops for organizations or communities. If you are wondering which leadership skills to inprove, REDA offers a tool, "Planning Your Road to Leadership" .
PYRTL is designed for any level of experi- ence. This tool will help you recognize your strangths and the areas of leadership development you most need to work on. It will assist you in choosing courses to improve your skills. To receive a free copy, contact:
REDA, 14815 - 119 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta, T5L 2N9 or Phone: 451-5959
19 9 1 C E N S U S^^O F AGRICULTURE
Wliat'siilit
for Hsunners?
H ■ n Juna 4, 1991 — the next Census o\ Aghcuiture — stand up and be counted U as !Z\ important memtier ut Canada' ;> fann cormiuntty. Fanners have always given tt?t Census their full co-opwration; they know what* s at stake.
wnat is at staks?
Yojr I'^acify for making strong tyjsiness decisions, your access to (jiallty services, your impac< or th» environment anr! rrore. depend on everyone's partJdpatJon in the Census.
How can famers use Census of Agriculture information?
The Census provides the industry :)V4V<view needed for making t)usiness deciskxis and i-.iqhiiij'its important fanning trencS. With the Census as a Ijase. you can evaluate your own ay'icCiyral methods (cropptng, irOduction and soil conseryatton). weigh alterrwtives and act on f?.C(S rather than on specuteitfi.
Do you (i9tiiand quattty products and services?
You should ciot have to travel far to get quality products and services. You benefit when ( ompanies spe-jiclizing in fertilizers, pesticides, teed, fencing, seed and f-^rm equipment use Censu.' data to find out where to locate. A farm equipment company in your community, for example, means ready access to equipment sales, rental, parts snd mci.uenance.
W(i2t isbout the environment?
Our envitonment needs protection. Farmers — like everyone else — are do:nq their part. The Census identifies larming practices and measures hew these practices are changing to deal with snvironmenial concerns.
What about the role of women in agriculture?
The 1 991 Census form allows for more than one operator to be named to show the reility of vi/omen's contribution to the farm industry m Canada. The role of women as decision-makers on the farm will be better reflected in the data.
How els!« do you benefit from everyone's participation?
In the case of emergency situations and natural disasters. Census of Agriculture dats are osed to quickly locate and identify agricultural areas affected — possibly your area — and to assess the impact of the damage. Associations and unions use the data for measuring the financi"! well-being of farmers and lor lobbying on your behalf. Accurate data from the Cens.is of Agriculture are an important part of the information needed to support government stabilization and pric<? support programs.
Is being well informed important to you?
Farm organizations and the farm media use the Census of Agriculture database to report on farm industry facts, trends and developments — details essential for getting the viewpoint of farmers in front of legislators and the Canadian public
You benefit from the Census so take a few minutes on June 4 and fill out your form and mail it back. There's a lot at stake.
Agricultural Societies T>Newsletter
ISSN: 0228-1090
SEPTEMBER 1991
FAIR SIGNS ARE GROWING ACROSS ALBERTA (Send Us a Slide of Your Sign)
PINCHER CREEK
FAIR»RODEO
^010 EVENTS Alin, 18 t9-20 '""'^H EXHIBITS "^'^
15 SHOW ; ^
JIREWORKS'MID#AY ^PitiS OTHER E«NTS >
f)
/dibcrra
AGRICULTURE
upport to other community organizations
C)bjectives - to improve agriculture, horticulture and homemaking in rural Alberta
CZIommunity cooperation
I nvestment in the future of rural communities
!EI nthusiastic volunteers
■JL'raining for young leaders
I ndividual achievements
!EIducation of consumers
JSharing with over 300 agricultural societies
Community Services /Rural Services Division, 7000 -113 St. Edmonton, Alta. T6H 5T6 Ph: 427-2171
1992 National Volunteer Week April 26 - May 2
Regional Agricultural Meetings
North West Region - Westlock November 2
Peace Region - Fairview November 16
North East Region - Ranfurly November 23
Details and registration forms have been
sent to your agricultural society
secretary. Contact our office for more details.
'ALBERTA GOLD'
C
Southern Alberta
See
Insert
Mini Conference November 22-23,1991
INDEX
Page
Important Dates to Note 2
Good Fair Ideas 3-5
Procedure for Fair Date Changes .... 5
Fall Tune-Up Tips 6
Volunteer Hunting Guide 7
Unconditional Lottery Funding 7
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FAIR lOEAS FROM
Edgerton Agricultural Fair deserves spec- ial recognition for one of the loveliest bench shows I was able to catch a glimpse at.
The theme "Save Our Earth" was carried right through the fairbook in special classes and decorations centered around the theme.
With the environment being such a major concern, the agricultural society did an excellent job of increasing awareness along with an activity that kept the whole community busy.
If you get a chance next summer, the fair in Edgerton is worth a visit.
Victoria Trail Agricultural Society
(Waskatenau) gave out certificates for the horse show, flower vases for the horticulture and general houseware prizes for the rest of the aggregate winners.
Cheaterroere Agricultural Society A flood of youngsters, identified with large red buttons as volunteers, cheerily ran the whole show in the children's activities area and were very visible in other volunteer roles. TERRIFIC TEAMl
Duchess Agricultural Society The cover of their book was designed by a local artist, Sabina Endersby, - a tree upholding the changing sub-themes of each year on it's branches under the theme "Progress in agriculture" .
This is the second year featuring, "Dairy 1991". 1990 was "Changing Roles of Women". Nice history record 1
High River Agricultural Society gardening section at the fair includes garden information booths.
THE SUMMER OF 1991
New Classes are always of interest to agri- cultural societies. Some of the ideas we've gleaned from this summer include:
Foods - dehydrated food classes, trail mix, children's rice crispie squares or puffed wheat squares, part cakes (half or quarter), smaller pies, small bread loaves, pints and small jars for canning, relish, etc.
Sewing - creative stitching classes using the sergers, neon-bright shorts for boys, designer outfits for girls (although both could enter either category).
Christmas Fair Sections included wreaths, ornaments, stockings, etc.
There have been a few fairs switching from ribbons to smaller tags. A few have given up trophies.
Westerner Exposition Association (Red Deer) The "Little Red Barn" area included McLevin's Blacksmith Shop manned with an experienced blacksmith at work at the anvil.
The "Oldest Brand" competition invited participants to bring their brands and leave their mark on the wall of the Blacksmith's shop.
In the "Speed Knitting Contest", partici- pants cast on 25 stitches and started knitting on signal and knit one row, purl one row for 5 minutes. Annie Varlent won the $25 gift certificate for the most rows - ten. A consolation prize was also offered for the least rows.
Delia & District Agricultural Society
offered a "Paint a Mural" (4'x4' agricult- ural theme) contest for senior high school students. Cash prizes were won by the top five murals. The murals were displayed at the fair.
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ALBERTA AGRICULTURAL SOCIETIES
Partners in Education Source: Delia's Fair Book, 1991
DEAR PARENTS;
Have you ever counted how many bag lunches you make in a year? If you have two children who take lunches to school, they'll eat about 400 lunches each year.
Fun With Nutrition
Children can take part in making their own lunches. Choose simple tasks for younger children such as peeling carrots or helping to package food.
Preparing portable lunches that your children will eat and enjoy takes imagination and knowledge of a variety of foods .
What's In a Good Lunch?
A nutritious lunch provides about one- third of a person's daily nutrient needs. It contains foods from each of the four food groups;
* Milk and Milk Products
* Fruits and Vegetables
* Meat, Fish, Poultry and alternates
* Breads and Cereals
Snacks _
1: Good for Teeth and Body These foods contribute to your total nutrient needs. They are also low in sugar and therefore, do not promote dental decay.
Milk and Cheese
Plain Yogurt (add fresh fruit)
Raw Fruits and Vegetables
Unsweetened Juices
Plain Muffins, Crackers, Breads and Cereals
Nuts and Seeds (Sunflower, Pumpkin) Pizza
Meat, Poultry, Fish, Eggs, Peanut
Butter Hot Dogs and Hamburgers
2: Good for Body Only These foods have nutritional value but, are high in sugar. They are less harmful to the teeth, if eaten with a meal.
Chocolate Milk, Milkshakes
Milk Puddings
Ice Cream, Ice Cream Sodas
Older children can do a great job of pre- paring simple foods. The more experience they get, the less supervision they need. And, chances are, if they make it, they'll
eat itl
Plan a lunch bag competition among your children for a week. Offer small prizes for the most interesting, colorful and nutri- tious lunches.
Flavoured Yogurt
Raisins and Other Dried Fruit
Sherbert
Sweetened Fruits and Juices Granola
3: Good for Teeth Only These foods contribute very few nutrients but, because they have a low sugar content, they are not harmful to the teeth.
French Fried Potatoes
Popcorn
Potato Chips
Pretzels
Sugar-free Soft Drinks Cheezies or Similar Snacks Sugarless Gum
4: Bad for Teeth and Body These foods do not contribute to nutrient needs and are high in sugar. They are poor choices for snacks. Fruit Flavoured Drinks
Regular Soft Drinks
Honey, Jam
Sweet Baked Goods - Cake, Cookies,
Pastry Chocolate Bars Candies, Lozenges Regular Gum
More Fair Ideas . . . ^ Planning an Awards Ceremony
When planning an awards ceremony, there are several key things to remember if you want everything to run smoothly. They appeared recently in an American publication, "Meeting News".
* Limit the number of spealcers.
How many times have you heard someone complain. There were too many speeches!"
* Have two people present the awards. One can announce the names and achieve- ments; the other can present the award.
* Make it easy for recipients to reach the stage quickly.
Why not seat them all at the front?
* Check the sound system to ensure it works .
Get someone at the back of the room to signal if they can't hear.
* Schedule a photo session for after the ceremony .
There's nothing worse than a photo- grapher trying to get posed pictures of ^ everyone during the event.
Follow these guidelines and your event will stand a better chance of success.
PROCEDURE FOR
Fairs are an important service of agri- cultural societies in any community. Due to the closeness in distance of many of our fairs. Fair dates should not be changed without consideration of the effect on other communities. Forward this procedure to your fair chairperson.
1: Obtain a copy of the Alberta Exhibi- tions Fairs and Agricultural Societies publication, Agdex 007.
2: Write all agricultural societies in your area that might be affected by the change of dates.
Inform them of your intent and enquire as to whether or not they would be ) affected by the change and/or have any objection.
5 -
Vegreville Agricultural Society had an agricultural society booth and survey form for their patrons. They also held excellent children's day activities including a toy parade. Children were invited to show some of their treasurers through a few ■ clever categories. Children were also invited to dress up in the "When I Grow Up" class.
Demolition derbys seem to be a real success in a lot of fairs. The urge to wreck something is probably strong in a lot of areas 1
Parades are moving away from throwing candy off floats into the street, a practise which has some dangers, to having people walk beside the floats and along the audience to distribute treats.
More ideas will be shared if you send in your notes about success at your fair.
FAIR DATE CHANGES
3: Write Alberta Agriculture, Agricult- ural and Community Services Branch, to the attention of your area consultant. Provide information regarding the agricultural societies you contacted and the agreed upon change of dates for your fair. Indicate whether the change is for a one time event or a permanent change.
This procedure allows the responsibility for changing fair dates to remain in the community ' s hands .
LAST WORD: The difficulty lies not only in the new ideas, but in escaping from the old ones. - John Maynard Keynes
FALL TUNE-UP TIPS
- 6 -
By: Andy McPhee
Occasionally you will find that your group of volunteers is showing signs of sluggish or inefficient performance. The question then is: "What kind of tune-up is required?"
The following are some simple, inexpensive group tune~up ideas.
1 : To correct for low commitment/ involve-- roent
* Plan an evaluation meeting
* Ask, "Why are we doing these activities?"
* Record the answers and suggestions for changes
* Make an effort to accept and make some of the changes suggested
* Make sure all members hear about the changes being made
2 : To tune-up regular meetings
* Try a written agenda distributed beforehand
* Discuss the agenda first thing in the meeting
* Get the group to agree on the time that the meeting will end
* Encourage participation of members by direct questions from the chairman, time limited discussions in small groups
3: Changing the Oil and Spark Plugs
Every once in a while your organization needs to consider whether a major tune- up is necessary. This is often a difficult decision because there may not be total group consensus that it is time to replace a few of the vital spark plugs that may no longer be as "electric" to the group functioning.
* Deal with group goals and group performance rather than any specific individual's action(s)
* Once group goals have been determined, evaluate, evaluate, evaluate. Ask questions:
a) Why are we doing this?
b) Do we need to write down information and instructions for members and committees?
Does the operation and maintenance committee need a procedures manual to ensure the pipes don't freeze?
Does the finance committee need to write down purchasing procedures?
c) Do we need to review the by-laws to look at terms of office and a rotation of job responsibilities?
* Take time, if possible at a special meeting, to discuss and come to a group consensus on which changes need to and can be made in the next year. Use this consensus at the start for planning activities for the next year.
) The Road Test
After you have poked and prodded, "under the hood" for a while it is important then to get on with the work of your organization. Make the changes in operating procedures and then give it a good run, to ensure optimum performance. Any misfiring can then become the basis for next year's tune-up.
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VOLUNTEER
In the March 1991 issue of "The Pryor Report", Dr. Paul Friedman, Editor, explained how "reciprocation" is the most powerful tool in organizational life.
He noted that people are naturally more willing to give you what you want if you give them what they want. It's human nature! The most powerful people, he says, are not necessarily the ones at the top of the organizational chart. Power generally accrues to those who commend the currency other people wish to deal in.
In a book called, "Influence Without Authority". Allan R. Cohen and David Bradford list a number of these valued currencies. When reading the list, try to think of someone you wish to influence and pick out a currency they value that you can provide or help them gain.
* Vision: to be involved in something with
significance for a larger group )* Excellences to do their work really well; to be the best
* Morality: to do what's ethical or
right, not just what's efficient
* Challenge/Learning: to increase their
knowledge and skills
HUNTING GUIDE
* Assistance; getting your support with
their valued project (or a task they don't like)
* Rapid Response: getting a quick reaction
to a request
* Information: getting the inside scoop
they normally wouldn't have
* Recognition: having their effort,
abilities and achievements recognized and affirmed
* Contacts/Visibility: meeting key people
and having their work known to superiors
* Understanding: having their concerns
heard with compassion
* Gratitude: being appreciated and having
an indebtedness acknowledged
* Involvement /Owner ship: having a role in
planning or taking charge of an activity
* Comfort: being free of hassles, having
something run smoothly
Remembering that you command these curren- cies can help you and those around you work more effectively. You're more powerful than you think!
Jl ft $ $ $ $ ^ $ j/t ^ ^ ,
UNCONDITIONAL
We've been checking our lists and getting them right! The process of requisitioning 278 unconditional lottery grant cheques for agricultural societies for a total of $5,480,000 and then distributing them to the correct address is moving along nicely.
We anticipate that the 1991 Unconditional Lottery Grant cheques for agricultural societies will be distributed well before the end of September.
1
LOTTERY FUNDING
These grants are unconditional in that they do not have to be matched and can be applied to any area of your agricultural society's operation including debt retirement, programs, operations or capital improvements.
Our best wishes go out to all those dedi- cated volunteers who have the responsibility of managing these funds on behalf of their agricultural society.
For further information contact Agricultural & Community Services, Alberta Agriculture, #201, J.G. O'Donoghue Building, Edmonton, Alberta, T6H 5T6, phone (403) 427-2171.
r
V
'*
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A A |
.GRICULTUR |
AL |
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S |
UPPORT TO OTHER COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS |
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O |
BJECTIVES- IMPROVING AGRICULTURE. HORTICULTURE AND HOMEMAKING |
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c |
OMMUNITY COOPERATION |
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I |
NVESTMENT IN THE FUTURE OF RURAL COMMUNITIES |
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E |
NTHUSIASTIC VOLUNTEERS |
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T A. |
RAINING FOR YOUNG LEADERS |
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I |
NDMDUAL ACHIEVEMENTS |
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E |
DUCATION OF CONSUMERS |
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S |
HARING WITH OVER 300 AGRICULTURAL SOCIETIES |
INDEX
Page
wish List from Agricultural &
Community Services Branch Cover
Reminders 2
How Do We Get Volunteers? 3
4-H 75th Anniversary 4
Alberta Rose Jardine 5
Bashaw Junior Agricultural Society 6
Regional Meetings and Mini
Conference Reports 7
Resources for You 8
Agricultural Ambassador Fair and
Conference Report 8
SECRETARY'S HANDBOOK
Have you seen this book? It is blue with colored tabs and dividers and should be in the hands of your secretary.
This book should be updated to contain the 1992 List of Directors, Report of 1991 Activities and the last Financial Statement.
Check your by-laws. A dated copy should also be in the handbook. If the by-laws are more than 5 years old consider doing a revision, or at least review to see if they are accurate .
R E MEMBER
1991 year end reports are due in our office JANUARY 15, 1992.
Fair dates should be sent in or the information can be given over the telephone by March 1, 1992.
Grant forms can and should be forwarded as soon as they are completed. Last date for mailing is February 29, 1992.
Far too soon summer is over (sooner than we wanted it to end) and community organizations are buzzing with activities they plan to provide for the community. Volunteers will be on everyone's list.
The common cry has become, "How do we get volunteers?" Volunteers have become cautious, their comments are, "When I say I'll help for one task for a few hours, I often end up in a lifetime commitment" or "When I got there nobody knew what I was supposed to do". If you are having trouble getting volunteers, here are a few principles to enhance the volunteer's position. Perhaps this will ensure that your volunteer will do the job and volunteer again.
1. Preparation: Determine why you need volunteers. Make a list of specific tasks for which you require help. For each task outline, when you need help, details of the action required, how much time it will take, how many times the task will be repeated, abilities, skills needed to perform the job, the name of the person from when the volunteer will receive support. It's a good idea to keep this information on file cards. Decide who will be responsible for each position. Who will recruit, train and supervise the volunteer work?
2. Develop a second set of file cards for volunteers and members of your organization: Record their name, phone, address, skills and abilities, interests, positions they have filled within your organization and other organizations; the days and time they are available. This provide a ready reference for calling on volunteers and a record for recognizing your volunteers.
3. Advertise your volunteer requirements by
word of mouth if possible, carry the task outlines with you as a ready reference,
with a contact name and dates for interviews. Don't be tempted to call the person who did it before because they are always willing to support you. Let them know the position they filled in the past is open for interviews as well as any new challenges they might like to accept.
4. Plan a time to orientate and brief the volunteers you select. Make this a specific date and time commitment, even if it only requires five minutes. this may be a time for the volunteer to meet co-workers and to become aware of their role. Review the volunteer's task and responsibilities and who to call for support. Take time to make the volunteer feel welcome and needed. This step helps build and then maintain the volunteer's confidence and ability. Further support and training can be done as in-service training throughout the duration of the job/task.
5. Recognition may be a simple handshake, a smile or a "thank you". Whatever it is, recognition is important in letting the volunteers know they make a difference.
6. When the job is done, take time to ask the volunteer for feed-back. Did he/she enjoy the work Do they have any suggestions for improvements, new ideas? Was there anything you could do to make the volunteer more comfortable in the position? Ask if they would volunteer again and whether they have a preference for a specific area of volunteerism.
Remember, you are a volunteer employer, volunteering is an important and vital function in community education and development. The objectives of your group can only be met if you spend time preparing for your volunteers and planning to meet their needs. A good volunteer program will assure a successful organization.
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SHOWCASE *92
Prepared by: Lloyd Marshman
Chairman - Marketing 4-H Showcase '92
As a new and exciting year approaches, I would like to suggest some ideas and themes for agricultural societies throughout the Province.
1992 marks the 75th year of 4-H in Alberta. Since the inception of 4-H in 1917 in Olds, Alberta, 4-H has come a long way and at present involves about 4500 families throughout the province.
Agricultural societies could use this as a theme for fairs and other events, possibly by using local leaders and members to set up displays and enter projects which they have completed.
July 31 - August 2, 1992 at Calgary's Stampede Park, 4-H is celebrating with a huge Jamboree. We are expecting 5-6,000 past and present 4-H members, parents and leaders to participate. There will be major
entertainment in the evenings (concerts and dances), a barbeque, pancake breakfast and throughout the days, livestock shows, horse shows and demonstrations involving all 30 plus 4-H projects.
Perhaps some agricultural societies might like to help promote this in their communities or help send some local 4-H youth to "Showcase '92" in Calgary. There will be all types of billeting, camping and hotel accommodation available.
Last, but not least, I would like to mention two items of interest that are available through your local 4-H clubs.
1: 75th Anniversary Cookbook, with over
1,000 recipes at a retail price of only $15.00.
2: A Collector Plate, which sells for $60 and/or $48 for a frame or a combination price of $99.
I thank all agricultural societies for their consideration of the above and help in promoting an exciting year in 4-H.
For more information on this and other opportunities regarding the 75th Anniversary and "Showcase '92", please call:
Diane Maull, Chairman 4-H Anniversary Committee Box 1865
METISKOW, Alberta TOB 3A0 Phone: 857-3779
Art Griffith, Chairman 4-H showcase '92 R. R. #2
BALZAC, Alberta TOM OEO
Phone: 226-0555
Gail Companion, Coordinator- Promotion Manager 4-H Showcase '92 Box 3130
HIGH RIVER, Alberta TOL IBO Phone: 652-2873
Lloyd Marshman, Chairman Marketing Committee Box 225
ROCKYFORD, Alberta TOJ 2R0 Phone: 533-2315
- 5
AN ALBERTA ROSE, BORN IN SASKATCHEWAN
On November 16, 1991 just under 300 people attended an appreciation night for Rose Jardine, President of the Big Country Agricultural Society in Oyen.
Rose has an impressive history as a volunteer and community supporter. The brief history that follows, highlights a few of her achievements.
Rose Elizabeth Ducie was born November 20, 1911 in Dundurn, Saskatchewan. She attended a one room school through high school in Dundurn. She attended the University of Saskatchewan, graduating with honors in English and History in 1931.
In the 30 's Rose took a correspondence bookkeeping course and later earned her tuition by teaching English and Arithmetic at Scotts Business College. In 1937, she accepted a position as secretary to the women's editor of the Western Producer.
Volunteer and Organizational Commitments include:
- Helped organize a young people's group, "The Cheerio Club, in the 1930' s.
- Member of the Canadian Society for Horticulture
- President of the Canadian Women's Press Club
- 4-H Leader
- Publicity convenor for the Oyen and District chamber of Commerce, since 1964
- Volunteer newspaper report for the Oyen Echo.
- Served as secretary of the Oyen and District Centennial Committee in 1967
- Local news reporter on Drumheller Radio
- Charter member of the Oyen and District Historical Society
- Co-editor of "Many Trails Crossed Here", Oyen Historical Book
- Secretary/treasurer of the Senior Citizen's Workshop group
- Area representative to the Big Country Further Education Council
- Volunteer tutor for adult literacy
- Active organizer of the Big Country Agricultural Society, She helped with her 22 fair this year.
- Member of the Management Committee for self contained suites at the senior citizen's home
- Treasurer for Oyen's 75th Anniversary Committee
- Treasurer of the Oyen and District Pool Committee
Awards of Recognition Include;
- 15 year, 4-H Leadership Certificate for services
- Oyen's Citizen of the Year
- Honorary Life Member in both the Saskatchewan and Alberta Horticultural Associations
- Recognition Award from Alberta Advanced Education
- Elected to the Alberta East Central Agriculture Hall of Fame
- Honorary Kinette of the Year
Obviously Rose is well known throughout the Big Country area as a tireless worker, even at the young age of 80. Her interests and enthusiasm for many aspects of agriculture, has shown itself in the diverse ways already mentioned.
As a final note, the group advised Rose that this wasn't a retirement party, they didn't expect or want her to retire. Oyen would be missing a lot if she did. She was offered advice to slow down a little if she wished, however, the community looks forward to man^ more enjoyable hours of working with Rose an. benefiting from her writing and organizational skills.
BAflHAW JUNIOR AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY
A First in Alberta
^^rom a presentation by Jackie Northey at the 5th Annual Southern Alberta Mini Conference
The formation of a Junior Agricultural Society has been a project of the Bashaw Agricultural Society. We believe that Juniors are very capable young people with many creative ideas that can be beneficial to our community.
The Bashaw Agricultural Society has set up a start-up budget of $500.00 for the Juniors. We do not want to impose any rules or regulations on the Juniors as to what the purpose or philosophy of this society will be. The only rules that must be considered are those that have been placed on all societies (eg: legally or morally).
The Bashaw Agricultural Society will offer their assistance a.id/or guidance if the Juniors so desire. The only other time that the Bashaw Agricultural Society would inflict a set of standards, would be if the Juniors required funding for a project. They would, at that time, be required to follow the same procedures as any other group or organization requiring funding.
The following are the questions give to the young people to help them formulate guidelines for their organization.
Bashaw Junior Agricultural Society Purpose:
Who will be eligible members of the Junior Society?
When will this society meet? How often? How many members should make up the executive?
Will there be a fee to join this society? How will projects be determined?
First Project (s) will be
Whom in the community will it serve? What will the benefits to the community be? What age groups will this project affect? Will the project eventually or presently include persons beyond the generally accepted boundaries of Bashaw & District? What will the project cost? When will it be completed?
Please remember that the above are only some questions, perhaps you will have some ideas of your own about what to include and what should be excluded.
It is not necessary for every project to be geared towards the whole community. Perhaps you believe that there is a need for more Junior Activities in Bashaw, or that there is a need for a particular service in the community. The possibilities are limitless, but the ultimate decisions will be yours.
We hope that the above can provide you with
some guidance to the formation of your unique society. The agricultural society's facilities are available to you free of charge for meetings or activities, subject of course to availability.
Editor's Note: We will be following up with Bashaw and hope to report the successes of the Bashaw Junior Agricultural Society in the future.
7
MEETINGS^ EXCELLENT MEETINGS
As well as annual meetings across the Province, many agricultural societies have attended regional meetings and mini conferences. These meetings have been an excellent opportunity for people to share and learn.
Some highlights of the meetings are noted in this newsletter. We hope that all agricultural societies will note this opportunity and consider picking a representative to attend next year's meetings as you delegate director's duties and responsibilities.
76 agricultural representatives from 37 agricultural societies across Northern Alberta have been meeting through the month of November.
Many new ideas were exchanged, including the following:
- promotion ideas in community
- visible agricultural societies
- insurance updates
- tourism possibilities
- visions for the future
- stress management
- rural communities in the year 2000
- an example of a policy and procedures handbook
Many of those attending will be reporting back to their local agricultural societies at the next meeting. If you missed your regional meeting, check for a letter describing the meeting in your region in detail.
If you would like a copy of some of the ideas from other regions, contact our office for a copy of some of the notes and ideas .
Program Consultants Alberta Agriculture
Agricultural & Community Services Branch
#201, J.G. O'Donoghue Building
7000 - 113 Street, Edmonton, T6H 5T6
WE TALKED, WE LISTENED , WE DANCED (and learned from each other)
The 5th and last Southern Alberta Agricultural Societies Mini Conference was shared by participants from Carmangay, Standard, Vauxhall, Milo, Hanna, Bassano, Raymond, Lomond, Blackf oot (Gleichen) and Big Country (Oyen) .
Thanks and congratulation to the Blackfoot and Bassano Agricultural Societies for cooperating to sponsor the conference. This was a first for the Blackfoot Agricultural Society and all but one of the evaluations complimented their efforts. The dance demonstration and participation dancing presented by the local dance troupe was enjoyed by all and was the highlight of the evening. It was the only session that did not have to compete with the sound of the heating system which was the fault of the designer and not the volunteers who rented the complex.
The afternoon in Bassano was informative ar^ enjoyable. The tour of their complex was a lesson in what results when the whole community gets behind a project to support it. If you are planning a facility in your community I'd suggest that they would be a valuable resource.
The highlight of this conference was the leadership provided by the real experts - people from agricultural societies, willing to give of their time and information to present topics related to volunteers, planning, networking, involving youth in agricultural societies and their program and services .
Thanks to the following agricultural society leaders for a great conference. Jackie Northey, Bashaw; Jennifer Peddlesden, Chestermere; Larry Johnstone, Red Deer; Gordon Porteous, Camrose; Edith Svanes, Carmangay; and our Dinner speaker Don Jacques, Calgary.
A special thanks to the two youth volunteer^ who manned the registration table like a >^ couple of professionals, Venessa Young Man and Glenda Spotted Eagle.
- 8 -
ther Related Resources: For free Fact Sheets, phone 427-0391, or write, Print Media Branch, Alberta Agriculture, 7000 - 113 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, T6H 5T6. You may order up to 10 copies of different publications at once by specifying the Agdex or Homedex number and publication title. Request a copy of the Publications List, Agdex 001
From Community Services Section
Committees will Work, if you tell them what their work is - Rae Hunter
Contact your Program Consultant for a Volunteer, Board Planning and Goal Setting, etc. workshop designed to meet your needs and request a workshop outline list.
Northern Alberta - Louise Welsh
Southern Alberta - Rae Hunter
PEOPLE LIKE TO WATCH THEMSELVES
An idea worth sharing from one "un-named" agricultural society was to have a "video
aper position" to tape activities throughout the year. At the annual meeting highlights of the agricultural society activities could be presented in video form.
Suggestions for this tape would include good commentary, lots of people shots and good editing so that the tape is 30 minutes maximum.
Agricultural societies in the Wainwright area may be interested in a project that Alberta Agriculture is developing. We hope to work with a few fair committees to produce a tape showing the steps in developing a bench show or fair.
Contact Louise Welsh, Program Consultant, Alberta Agriculture, Edmonton (427-2171) or Brenda Nazar, District Home Economist in Wainwright if your wish to participate.
Agricultural society members have always been quick to adapt and change with the latest technology. Consider the technology when making your 1992 plans.
AGRICULTURE AMBASSADOR FAIR & CONFERENCE November 22/23, 1991
The Agriculture Ambassador Fair and Conference was held November 22/23, 1991. This event was a sharing between educators, the agriculture industry and the community.
It featured a school project fair/competition open to all Alberta students from grades one to twelve in all subject areas. There were 425 entries.
The agriculture industry sponsored over $4,000 in prize money for this event as well as tremendous participation by exhibitors, guest speakers and hosts.
As well as the major support of the Medicine Hat Exhibition & Stampede Co. Ltd., new partners for the event were 30 agricultural societies, who generously sponsored the accommodations of more than 50 teachers attending the conference portion of this event. The teachers spent the Friday evening and Saturday morning sharing strategies for incorporating agriculture content into their regular classroom lessons.
The Agriculture Ambassador Program is a partnership with Alberta Agriculture and Alberta Wheat Pool for the purpose of supporting a teacher in every Alberta school who volunteers to share agriculture resources with their colleagues.
The organizers anticipate the volunteer recruitment will take until 1995 to complete. Each year, the prograun hosts the fair and conference to increase awareness of the program amongst students, teachers, the agriculture industry and Alberta communities.
HAPPY hSW YIAR ^ HAPinr NEW YEAR ★ HAPPY NEW YEAR ★ HAPPY
I
AGRICULTURAL SOCIETIES
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N
W
YOUTH FAIR VOLUNTEERS GALORE 1 Jennifer Peddlesden, Chairperson Chestermere Country Fair, 1991-91
Places where young people helped at our fair:
1: Organized a PENNY CARNIVAL for the 5-12 year old group - booked the carnival games (Have Carnival Will Travel-279-6322 ) ; decided on prizes and ordered them or obtained donations (Alberta Bingo, Old Dutch); decorated buttons which identified them as carnival workers; solicited volunteers from other students at school (about 15); set up/took down the carnival games; did a report for school on their project.
Two parent volunteers supervised and took responsibility for this project. The two students were in Grade Nine in a Leader- ship Program. This was their project for this class, so we initially had to approach the teacher with our proposal. This year the two students will speak to the next Grade Nine Leadership class to see if anyone else would like to take on this as a project for their 1992 semester.
2: Worked as MASCOTS. We were able to get the local Scout mascot (a beaver) and the local high school mascot. A student wore the school mascot costume.
3: SOLD BALLOONS and mingled with the children - four girls (age 12-17) dressed up AS CLOWNS and sold helium balloons during the day.
Continued on Page 2
R
MARCH 1992
INDEX
Feature Article, "YOUTH FAIR VOLUNTEERS GALORE!" . . . . .
Community News
Changes in A.A.A.S. Office
Future Events ■
Associate Minister's Address
Fairs & Exhibitions Booklet ,
. Effective Communication . . .
/dibcrra
AGRICULTURE
AGRICULTURAL AND COMMUNITY SERVICES, RURAL SERVICES DIVISION 7000-113 ST., EDMONTON, ALBERTA T6H 5T6 PHONE 427-2171 ISSN: 0228-1090
Page
Cover 3 4 5 5
2.
4; Every student (310) at the local ele- mentary school (Conrich School) COLOURED A POSTER which illustrated some aspect of a Country Fair. The Advertising Committee provided the school with the posters bundled in numbers correct for each class and labelled with the teacher's name. Because our Fair occurs at a busy time for the schools, we made it as easy as possible for the teachers.
These posters lined the walls of the Chestermere Complex on Fair Day. The posters were returned to the students (see picture of Advertising Chairman, Rosemary Paddock, with Mr. Barry Gore, Vice Principal of Conrich School returning a poster to, student. Tammy Press. This was so popular that we will be doing it again.
An alternate idea is to have a poster contest each year as part of the children's bench competition with the winning design being used as the following year's poster. A Fair out in Invermere a number of years ago had school children do large size posters at school and these were placed in the windows of every store on main street. These were not suitable for posting outside or on bulletin boards as they were very large, but the children must have loved seeing their handiwork advertising the Fairl
5: In 1992 we will be having the Chestermere School Band play at the Fair and in our parade.
We had a great deal of success in selling the Fair to the children by having a dis- play of samples of items which they could enter in bench, horticulture set up in the display cabinet at the elementary school entrance. This was up for over a month
Also the Children's Committee in combination with the Advertising Committee visited the school on an Assembly Day 6 weeks before the Fair, showed some examples of entries from a previous year, described the poster project and left the bundles of posters for distri- bution.
Especially popular was the dog we brought in (to advertise the pet show) and the decorated bicycle as a sample for the decorated bike contest and bike parade. The nutritious lunch category had been popular the previous year, so to illustrate the nutritious lunch for the students, we cut out shapes of sandwiches, carrots, apples, etc. described the 4 food groups and placed these in a lunch bag. One enterprising youth entered his lunch as paper cut outs of his choice of nutritious items in his lunch box. We gave him a spec- ial ribbon and decided we had to explain the requirements more clearly next year 1
Many of the older children (Jr. High and up) offered to help on the day of the Fair. Several worked with their parents at the gate, and some inside at our information/ticket booth.
My assessment is that a key to getting youth volunteers is getting the whole family involved. When there is a feeling of excitement about the Fair in the community and the youngsters see everyone else involved, they feel very comfortable helping and being a part of the Fair.
For further information contact: Jennifer Peddlesden, phone 272-3764.
This Newsletter is a publication of the Agricultural and Community Services Branch of Alberta Agriculture.
Reg Kontz, Branch Head
Andy McPhee, Head
Community Services Section
Anne Bennett - Secretary
Rae Hunter - Program Consultant, South
Louise Welsh - Program consultant. North
PHONE: 427-2171
COMMUNITY NEWS
Acme & District Agricultural Society We received information and compliments for their program from Ted Darling, Regional Farm Economist.
The agricultural society sponsored and organized a discussion "Pay the Producer or Pay the Railroad". 65 producers attended. The panel presented all points of view which were carefully considered by the audience.
Crogsroads Agricultural Society Excerpts from a positive president's report by Charles R. Moore.
"As in the past, our Fifth Annual Fair and Sports Days was a big success again this year. This is mainly due to the hard work of the joint committee, sub-committees and many volunteers who make it all happen. We must remain constantly vigilant that there is no let up in this area as we feel we have built a reputation of having one of the finest events of its kind in the Province."
"The addition of a theme, this year saluting our Heritage, was well received and the many antique displays, wearing of pioneer costumes and display of vintage tractors were a credit to all who participated. In keeping with tradition and with the help of local sponsors, our fair grant and lots of hard work from our volunteers were were able to showcase agriculture past and present in a way the whole family could afford, enjoy and participate in."
I would like to thank the retiring directors for their dedicated service in the past and also way that this past year's board have been great to work with, as always. It was personally gratifying to see that volunteerism in our community is alive and well, as many turned out from all parts of our area to help."
Stromc & District Agricultural Society Commitment to agriculture support and research. The Strome & District Agric- ultural Society completed its 3rd of 5 payments to support the Battle River Applied Research Association. This is an organization started up to do research in our area. The organization has conducted test plots and is analyzing crop varieties and types of cultivation and soil conservation, to find those best suited for farmers in our area. A donation was made to the Alberta Association of Agricultural Societies to further their work.
Okotokg Agricultural Society celebrates the agricultural society's 100 Anniversary this year. (1892 - 1992) Their major fund raising for the June 20-21,1992 celebration is the sale of Lottery Calendars offering daily prizes as well as larger amount prizes throughout the year.
Owen Lewis will be pleased to have you 'participate' by purchasing a calendar. Contact him at 938-2494, he still has a few calendars available.
Vauxhall Agricultural Society The mini fair, mighty board and volunteer commun- ity announces date for not one but four fairs:
13 - Flowers, Potted Plants 27 - Fruits, Vegetables, Grains
No . 1 , Aug , No . 2 , Aug ,
No . 3 , Sept No. 4, Sept
10 - Handicrafts, Photography
& Kids Section 24 - Home Baking, Canning,
School Display
000
TREE DECORATING EVENT Empress/Bindloss Agricultural Society
The date for the tree decorating is set at the November meeting and a committee is set up for the evening events that will take place on that day.
The event usually starts around 5:00pm. All members of the community are invited to come and bring a non-returnable Christmas Tree Ornament. The tree is purchased from a local club and is set up in the middle of the park.
The event commences with a hay ride around the town which involves singing Christmas Carols and finishes at the park where hot chocolate is served and a marshmallow roast takes place. During this time everyone hangs up their ornaments on the tree together with the lights and another sing along is held.
. Submitted by: Peter Rafa
Secretary
Rimbey Agricultural Society says "Thank You Fred Harrison" for 25 years of service in the agricultural society.
WHAT ARE VOLUNTEERS?
Taken from the Rumsey & District Agriculture
Society ' s 1991 Activities Report by Audrey Nelson.
Submittec
VOLUNTEERS are like Ford; they have better ideas .
VOLUNTEERS are like Coke; they are the real thing.
VOLUNTEERS are like Pan Am; they make the
going great, VOLUNTEERS are like Pepsi; they've got a lot
to give.
VOLUNTEERS are like Dial Soap; they care
more, don't you wish everyone did? VOLUNTEERS are V05 Hair Spray; their goodnes
holds in all kinds of weather. VOLUNTEERS are like Hallmark cards; they are
enough to give the very best. VOLUNTEERS are like Standard Oil; they expec
more and you get it . But most of all, VOLUNTEERS are like Frosted
Flakes;
THEY 'RE G-R-R-R-R-R-R-R-E-A-T 1 ! 1 1 1 1 1 1 M M I CHANGES IN THE A.A.A.S. OFFICE
Submitted by:
Eve-Lyn Cockle, Secretary/Manager
My husband has been offered a transfer withi his firm to British Columbia and we have decided to make the move. The Agricultural and Community Services Branch asked me to put a short "blurb" in their newsletter, to say "Goodbye" to all my friends in the agricultural societies in Alberta.
For the past nine years, I have been the onl^ paid employee of the association and the Scottish voice at the other end of the phone I have thoroughly enjoyed my tenure with AAAS, especially touching base with many of you. I have made many friends over the year and I am going to miss you.
I sincerely hope that a solution is found to the plight of the rural farming community in Alberta and wish you health and happiness in the future.
Editor's Notes
Eve left her office at the end of February. Best Wishes in new challenges, we know she'll be missed.
FUTURE EVENTS
Fair Judge's Update (Region I) Lethbridge April 2, 1992, Contact Jan Williams, DHE, Brooks, Phone: 362-1212.
Fair Judge's Update (Region VI) Savanna, April 2, Linda Hawk-Sellin, DHE, Spirit River
Find Your Own Sunlight" Women's Conference (Region III) Red Deer, Black Knight Inn, April 2, 1992. Contact Karen Goad, DHE Innisfail, Phone: 227-6565.
Agricultural Service Board, Provincial Tour,
County of Grande Prairie at Beaver lodge, July 13 - 16, 1992.
Agricultural Society Board Planning Workshop,
Goldeye Centre, November 20 - 22, 1992, Contact, REDA, Phone: 451-5959.
Vauxhall Mini Conference (Region I) November 27 - 28, 1992. Contact: Siny Brummelhuis, Secretary Vauxhall Agricultural Society, Phone: 654-2546 or Rae Hunter, Program Consultant, Alberta Agriculture, Phone: 427-2171.
"Control The Future For Your Community's Sake", a one-day institute, will be held at the University of Lethbridge on Satur- day, April 4, 1992. This day-long session, sponsored by Alberta Recreation and Parks with administrative assistance from the Southern Alberta Recreation Association (S.A.R.A.), has been organized in direct response to individuals such as you.
The assistance that David Irvine & Richard Larsen (the Institute's leaders) will give to you on Saturday, April 4th, will be the beginning of your community's desired fut- ure. Make the connection!
Participation in this institute will be the first step for you, as a community leader, in identifying and agreeing on the common goals and values for your community to take control of its future.
Please do not hesitate to call 381-5231 if we can be of assistance in ensuring your participation in this positive self-help session.
\\ SHIRLEY McCLELLAN ' S ADDRESS
J\ We love to get your compli- mentary letters to forward A' to the Association Minister, ^v,^^ however, should you want to mail direct , her address is;
vX Honourable Shirley McClellan Assoc* Minister of Agricultui ^al26 Legislature Building
iton. Alberta T5K 2B6
ALBERTA EXHIBITIONS, FAIRS
AGRICULTURAL SOCIETIES, 1992
AMD
Judging by the pile of responses we have received for the 1992 issue of the fair book, it's going to be the best book ever. Thanks 1
Work is going to start very shortly on preparing the new booklet. If you haven't sent us your 1992 fair/activity dates and wish to be include, we could "squeeze" you in if you can get the information to us by March 20.
Effective communication
6.
By: M. (Mo) Renaud General Manager Red River Exhibition
Key components
Statistics suggest there are three key components in successful informal, or spoken, communications; 7% is word choice, 38% is tone of voice, and 55% is body language. How can we use this information to our best advantage?
There are some significantly power- ful words and phrases that can help to establish trust relationships, jyiot only with staff, but with business associates and volunteers as well: * • "We" not "They" - We is front line and shows that you take respon- sibility for your actions
• "I Don't Know" - It's very human not to know all the answers
• " Your Idea is Better Than Mine" - If someone has a good idea admit it!
• "What Do You Think Should Be Done" - We all have opinions, and we all like to be asked for our opinion. Solicit input!
• "Thank You" - Good manners are never out of style.
• "I Made a Mistake" - Again, this shows humanity. We all make mistakes, so why not admit them? It feels good and helps to resolve the problem.
• "Let's Work Together To Do It" Cooperation will make the program or concept work.
Finally, two words that will cure a lot ofiUs.
• "I'm Sorry" - No one is infalUble, mistakes happen. Take responsibility and personalize it by say ing ' r m sorry ' .
Of even greater importance to effec- tive communication arc the other two components - TCmeTiirvoice and body language.
FAIR SCOPE - January/Febniary 1992
VOLUNTEERS
Used at Appreciation Night at Rich Valley, sent in by Violet Nordlund.
Many will be shocked to find, When the day of judgement nears. That there's a special place in heaven Set aside for volunteers . . .
Furnished with big recliners. Satin couches and footstools. Where there's no committee chairman. No group leaders nor car pools.
No eager team that needs a coach. No bazaar or no bake sale. There will be nothing to staple; Not one thing to fold or mail.
Telephone lists will be outlawed . . But a finger snap will bring Cool drinks and gourmet dinners And rare treats fit for a king ...
You ask, who'll serve this privileged few And work for all they're worth? Why, all those who reaped the benefits And not once volunteered on earth.
TME FINAL WCI^D
EErci^E rcu civc
SCMECODT A DIECE CF rCUl^ MIND,
MArE SUB^E rcu CAN €ET BY WITH WHAT YOU tiAVE l_EETI
SICNED ANCNYMCUS
/diberra
RECREATION AND PARKS
AGRICULTURAL SOCIETIES
JU
NEWSLETTE SUMMERTIME AND THE LIVING IS EASY??
R
JUNE 1992
Summer should be a time for relaxing and enjoying life. This is true for many people but in our group we know that many volunteers in agricultural societies throughout the province think of summertime as FAIR time. Hardly the laid back "sip on a mint julep" time!
The Agricultural and Community Services Branch, Reg, Andy, Rae, Louise and Anne, will be visiting a number of fairs throughout the summer. If you have a special event that you would like us to note or if our schedule allows us to attend, please let us know well in advance.
NOTE:
FAIR BOOKS SHOULD BE SENT TO OUR OFFICE AT LEAST 6 WEEKS PRIOR TO THE FAIR.
Because the best ideas come from each other, we invite you to provide stories and pictures to share with other agricultural societies.
Send in your best fair story for our fall newsletter. The workshops we hold on fairs need some of your ideas for the next season. Write down some of the most successful activities and even some of the thoughts on what didn't work.
TRIED AND TRUE IDEAS FROM THE PAST
Environment issues depicted in youth classes.
Themes for parades that carry through the day. This year Chestermere will have an historical costume contest to emphasize their theme.
Christmas class sections. (Why have even one month without snow! ! )
Live demonstrations and displays, just about anything that will add interest and people seems to work.
Classes that encourage young people to enter the Provincial Ag, in the Classroom fall fair.
Insert your brainwriting or brainstorming session into the next fair committee meeting and let us know some of your creative thoughts for this year's fair.
(Cont'd.)
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INDEX |
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|
Article |
Page |
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Fair Ideas |
1 |
|
Alberta Lotteries |
3 |
|
Insurance |
4 |
|
Upcoming Dates & Events |
5 |
|
Heart Smart Food Classes |
5 |
|
Congratulations |
6 |
|
Survey Results |
6 |
/diberra
AGRICULTURE
AGRICULTURAL AND COMMUNITY SERVICES, RURAL SERVICES DIVISION 7000-113 ST., EDMONTON, ALBERTA T6H 5T6 PHONE 427 2171 ISSN: 0228-1090
VOLUNTEERS The problem of getting the people to attend the fair is small when compared with getting the help required to put the whole event together.
Here are a few quick hints which may help your agricultural society with your recruitment strategies.
Develop an outline for the work required. This should include every job, in detail. If you break down each job into small tasks , you may be able to insert some new people at a level they can successfully handle.
For example, taking in the entries the night before could be further broken into; one person checking off entries against forms from 6:30 to 8:00, one youth putting entries on the tables from 7:00 - 8:30 and one person at the door with a fair book and extra entry tags, etc.
The more detail is written down, the greater the chance is that no one will forget the job and also that some new people may begin to get involved.
Evaluate your activity. The goal of all agricultural societies is to have the best fair in their community. This takes a lot of dedication and commitment but a critical factor for every committee is to objectively evaluate all your efforts . Keep a notebook handy and write ideas on how to improve, also what ideas are very successful.
Visit other fairs with this critical approach and learn from the successes and the failures that others have experienced .
Budget for the fair. Every fair committee should have some established financial plans so that the fair can be rated successful in many ways . What income will the fair provide? There is nothing wrong with having the steak barbecue cover the cost of some of the prize money.
The major discussion comes at the meetings of the agricultural society where no budget has been established and everyone is discussing where the money should have come from or where the money should be spent.
FAIR GRANT FORMS HAVE BEEN SENT TO THE SECRETARY ... PLEASE CHECK AND LET US KNOW IF YOU HAVEN'T RECEIVED A FORM.
This grant can be applied for as soon as you have received all the documentation required. We would like to see many fair grants in September and October.
THE FAIRS AND EXHIBITIONS BOOKLET HAS BEEN PRINTED AND SENT ACROSS THE PROVINCE. Please note these date changes .
Winfield & District Agricultural Society "Ugetuk Days" will be held August 8 & 9, 1992.
Neutral Hills Agricultural Society dates are August 6 & 7, 1992.
fair
- 3 -
CREATIVE JUDGING
As most of you know by now , the payment of fair judges is no
longer part of the responsibility of the Agricultural and Community Services Branch. This budget was one of the items that was eliminated in the effort to balance the overall budget of the Alberta Government.
The good news is that many agricultural societies are accepting the change well and have adopted some creative approaches to looking at their fair judge requirements .
Options include:
1 . Paying judges directly from the agricultural society. Consider your budget and needs before sending out the judge's contracts. This is an opportunity to evaluate your fair competitions in total and decide if outside judges are required for all classes .
2. All judges used to be volunteers. Perhaps there are some local talents and professional knowledge that you have not tapped. Are there some people in your community who would trade some of their talent for recognition or support from the agricultural society in their endeavors?
3 . What about a judging team? This could be less threatening to the individual and perhaps very enjoyable for the group.
4. Have the public vote or run a "You be the Judge" contest for some categories. This could add more interest in the overall competition .
5 . Once again the best ideas usually come from sharing your thoughts with others. Have a brainstorming session and send us some of your creative thoughts on getting judges .
ALBERTA LOTTERY FUNDS
Most agricultural societies have met the requirements that will put them in good standing under the Agricultural Societies Act and qualify them for the lottery funds for this year.
Good Standing
For those of you who are not in good standing - get your documents to us soon as we are starting now to prepare the lists that will be used to generate the 1992 lottery payments .
There is no special application form for the unconditional lottery funds and if all things run smoothly, you can anticipate receiving this year's cheque by September.
4
INSURANCE
PLAY THE UNDER- OVER GAME!
Insurance is an eligible expense which most agricultural societies claim on their operating grant. Both Rae and I have noticed a wide variety of policies and coverage.
All agricultural society executives should review your policies regularly with a few questions in mind.
1 .Do you have enough coverage? Most owners of buildings must have enough insurance coverage to replace their existing facilities if some major catastrophe happens.
Every three years the agricultural society may claim an appraisal under the operating grant . Even if you do an appraisal every five years, you will ensure that you have a policy that looks at the value of the facilities and will provide the opportunity for your agricultural society to review the policy.
2 . Do you have too much insurance? As strange as it may seem, some of the agricultural societies seem to be over- insured.
Occasionally, we notice agricultural societies paying for double insurance on their facilities or insurance on their directors. It is not uncommon to see fidelity bond insurance as part of your major insurance policy as well as a separate cheque paid for fidelity bond insurance when you pay the membership dues of the provincial association.
3. Have you compared the rates? Most agricultural societies like to support their local businesses. I would always encourage you to talk to the local people first.
The Alberta Association of Agricultural Societies offers an insurance program which is optional for agricultural societies. Municipalities can often offer some inexpensive insurance coverage through their program.
We encourage you to shop around for the most appropriate coverage at the best rate.
4 . What do you get for your payments? As most of us have found, you often only know the real policy coverage when something happens.
Make time to review your policy and talk to your agent about the coverage that you have. In the insurance business, service is everything. Have your policy clear to all the executive. If the agent cannot explain the policy clearly and to your satisfaction, perhaps it is time to look around for someone interested in satisfied customers .
5 . What do you need? This is a question that each agricultural society has to answer for themselves. Insurance, is trying to anticipate the worst case scenario with a gamble clause!
There are more cases of groups having to review their coverage after a disaster than we would like to see. Hopefully, you will never have to use your policy but consider what the consequences would be if you were not covered.
Insurance is part of the regular budget of almost all the agricultural society's planning. Take the time to review your policy this year and be sure that you are satisfied with your coverage.
Let's hope we all have a year with no claims !
UPCOMING DATES AND EVENTS
Peace (Region 6) Wanham, November 14
NW (Region 5), Possibly late October or late November. More details to follow.
NE (Region 4) , Tofield agreed to host in fall, possibly November.
These meetings are a cooperative venture aimed at providing a sharing experience .
Contact LOUISE WELSH if you would like to have more input.
After 5 years, the Southern Alberta Mini Conference is going District .
Participation and the sharing of resources and information at these conferences has been great. Hopefully, by holding the conferences closer to home, these aspects will be even better.
Red Deer (Region 3) , January 3 or 4th Week. No sponsor at this time! I'm looking for someone in Region 3 or part of Region 2 between Red Deer and Calgary. Could it be you?
Oyen October 30-31
Vauxhall - November 27-28
Contact RAE HUNTER if you would to have more input.
HEART SMART FOOD CLASS
Submitted by:
Aileen J. Whitmore,
Chairman Heart Smart Theme Program
The Heart Smart Food Class is a poster presentation at the International Heart Health Conference being held in Victoria, British Columbia at the end of May. It was one of the ones selected to be presented from a number of abstracts submitted from around the world.
The Heart Smart Food Class has been sponsored by the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Alberta for the last three years . During 1991 eighty-nine fairs held the class.
The primary aim of the Heart Smart Food Class is to encourage people to enter heart healthy foods and submit the recipies. Heart Smart recipes are those that feature a low amount of fat and sodium (salt), while increasing the amount of fibre. They may contain a moderate amount of sugar. The recipes may be existing or could be adapted or modified.
The Heart and Stroke Foundation of Alberta offers prizes for the recipes that best exhibit Heart Smart cooking. The recipes must:
limit the amount of fat, limit the amount of salt, and increase the amount of fiber.
Fairs wishing to hold the Heart Smart Food Class this year should contact: Heart Smart Program Coordinator Heart & Stroke Foundation of Alberta 1825 Park Road, SE Calgary, Alberta T2G 3Y6 Phone: 264-5549
- 6 -
SURVEY RESULTS
In our last newsletter, we attached a survey asking for your response.
Many of you did respond and we would like to share some of those responses with you. If your agricultural society would still like to participate, we will gladly accept your forms or written notes .
Question 1: What, excluding more grants would be the greatest need for your agricultural society?
- Volunteers
- Improved community profile and agricultural visibility
- Executive and board training in planning and skills
- School awareness of agricultural society's purpose
- Involving more young people (female) directors
- Help to set up five year plan
- Sharing with other agricultural societies
- How to better the agricultural society
- Take advantage of training
A similar series of responses will help us look at resources and workshops for this year.
Question #5: What topics do you feel we should address if we held a workshop in your area?
- Applying for grants and what is available
- Fund raising ideas
- New activity, projects or fair ideas
- Environmental concerns
- Advertising
- Videos or speakers for fun at meetings
- Planning for the future
- Involving young people
- Working together as directors
- Stress management
- Recruiting new members
- How to run effective meetings
- Differientiating between paid and volunteer staff
- Leadership
- Volunteers
We are open to your requests. Let us know if you have needs that are not being met and where we can be of assistance.
Agricultural societies who have requested our attendance at workshops will be seeing our smiling faces this spring or fall. We look forward to working with as many of you as possible.
|
aoDODa CONGRATULATIONS |
Okotoks Agricultural Society - 100 years old (1982 - 1992)
There will be a great time in Okotok, June 20 - 21, 1992, when they celebrate their 100th Anniversary.
For further information contact: Owen Lewis, phone: 938-2492.
AGRICULTURAL sep 281992 SOCIETIES
NEWSLETTER
SEPTEMBER 1992
"If ' • li
OKOTOKS lOOTH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
See Page 4
INDEX
FAIRS 2
AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY INFORMATION .... 7
WORKSHOPS/CONFERENCES 8
NEW RESOURCES 9
GOVERNMENT 11
/dibcrra
AGRICULTURE
AGRICULTURAL AND COMMUNITY SERVICES, RURAL SERVICES DIVISION 7000-113 ST., EDMONTON, ALBERTA T6H 5T6 PHONE 427-2171 ISSN: 0228-1090
- 2 -
FINE FAIRS ACROSS ALBERTA
By: Louise Welsh, Program Leadership Consultant, North Alberta Agriculture, Agricultural & Community Services Branch
As usual, visiting fairs gave me lots of new ideas for future workshops and information to share with you in our newsletter. The community fair still continues to be one of the best family events happening throughout Alberta.
Once on the ground there was a lot going on, definitely something for all ages. Even at this large center and bigger fair, it was obvious that the community was very supportive and everyone worked together to make a successful family event.
I must nominate SAVANNA Agricultural Society for having the most impressive bench show that I saw all summer. The quality of entries was extremely high and the displays were excellent.
In NEWBROOK, the competition was keen in the bench show, cattle show and ball games. The volunteers of the Newbrook Agricultural Society worked hard for many days to make sure the weekend was successful.
There were lots of people and lots of activities going on when I attended the fair. The community was enjoying a great get-together.
The THORHILD bench show was held on the same day as the rodeo. People needing a break from watching all the cowboys were encouraged to wander through the exhibits. The largest puff ball of the summer was quite a feature.
VERMILION Agricultural Society had great weather (although the farmers probably hoped for rain at the time) . The parade was well run and had some excellent floats .
These hard working volunteers should be giving a workshop on creating dynamic displays. Everything in the display was done with local materials and ordinary articles. For example; school gym equipment, small ladders to hang afghans.
HARMON VALLEY rented a mini golf course which was a busy place most of the afternoon. The executive did an excellent job of acknowledging all those who helped prior to giving out some excellent prizes and awards .
Some how the flowers in FAIRVIEW missed enough hail, drought and wind to make a beautiful display. It is obvious that there are some excellent with very artistic talents.
The quality of this horticulture show makes an excellent competition.
gardeners
3
HIGH PRAIRIE was preparing for their show when I arrived. The convenor's were busy making the display areas look appealing. The secretary was setting up her computer and printer to ease the recording of entries and prizes. This group looked like they were ready for a great fair.
The women organizing the second bench show of the DEBOLT Country Club and Agricultural Society were extremely kind and hospitable. They even let me stay and observe the judging and work with the convenors.
I thank them for the experience as it should help in my understanding of how much volunteers do to make a successful fair.
It seems the summer has gone much too quickly. Some of the fairs had a definite drop in entries this year. There were a lot of hot days, hail storms and general drought in the north that hopefully are a one year phenomenon.
Now that your fair committees have had time to evaluate, let's hear from you about your summer fair. I really enjoyed all those that I attended.
Edmonton Northland's Fair
Report by: Anne Bennett, Administrative Support, Alberta Agriculture, Agricultural & Community Services Branch
It was with great excitement, that I received an invitation from Edmonton Northlands to attend the Safeway Klondike Crafts and Country Fair Coffee Party and presentation of awards. Being an amateur craft person I have an appreciation for the skill required to produce the fine works that are entered in the fair and look forward to going through the Sportex each year to view the exhibits .
Rae Hunter and I arrived early on July 17th to find the place bustling with activity. We wandered through the exhibits examining each display in detail, marvelling at the workmanship of the entries.
Some of the classes we found interesting were dried herbs, creative recycling and the beautiful sketching on eggs in the egg decorating class.
We noticed that many of the winners were not only from Edmonton but from throughout Northern Alberta as well. One entry came from as far away as Ontario. The oldest exhibitor was 94 years and the youngest three .
During the Coffee Party we spoke to a couple who have both been entering exhibits in the Northlands show for many years. They were enthusiastic and eager to show their work and share their knowledge with us.
- 4 -
The lady had knit a very intricate, lacy doily and had received 2nd prize. The gentleman had received 2nd prize for designing and constructing a church using over 12,000 popsicle sticks.
His joy at receiving 2nd prize was overshadowed, however; by his marvel at the workmanship that had created the overall prize winning entry by another exhibitor ,
The awards presentation gathered together a group of Edmonton's top creators and craft persons with expertise in areas from baking, cake decorating, sewing and quilting to woodworking, paper tole, painting and sketching.
Prizes were presented by the sponsors and pictures were taken of each 1st prize winner and overall top points winner.
One of the oldest agricultural societies is still improving and setting examples for the future of fairs in Alberta and beyond .
The grounds are located just a short 15 minutes drive from Calgary and only 10 minutes south of Spruce Meadows.
The Okotoks Agricultural Society was first formed in 1892 as the "Sheep Creek Agricultural Society", and was located in the Town of Dewdney, North West Territories .
In 1977, the society moved its location to the current facility, known as Hebson Arena, named in honour of Tom Hebson .
The Okotoks Agricultural Society exists primarily to serve the community by providing facilities and offers a variety of interesting programs and clinics.
The facilities and services are available to all members of the community.
Members, through their contribution of time and effort maintain the facility and organize the services provided. Grants, provided by our provincial government, help augment the rising costs of maintaining the society.
OKOTOKS AGRICULTURAL - SOCIETY
By: Sheila McLellan, Secretary
On June 20th and 21st, the Okotoks Agricultural Society hosted their 100th Anniversary Celebration. This makes us one of the oldest agricultural societies in Alberta.
Rae Hunter, from Alberta Agriculture, and Don Tannas, MLA, Highwood Constituency were both in attendance for the celebration .
The board of directors, along with members form various activities held at the Okotoks Agricultural Society, organized some action packed events.
- 5 -
Saturday saw the Cutting Horses and Team Cattle Penning events, along with a steak barbecue, beer garden and dance. This day was very successful.
The morning cutting had 16 open riders competing and 19 non-pro cutters .
There was also an exhibition of bridleless cutting which is always a crowd pleaser. It is a real joy to watch these beautiful animals working cattle on their own.
The winner of the Pro competition was Jim Simpson of Okotoks riding Miss Doc Elite and the winner of the Non-Pro competition was Irwin Endicott of Calgary riding Leo San Seven. Both competitors were presented with buckles donated by Douglasdale Estates.
The afternoon Team Cattle pennin„. e . en-^ saw i r. teiims, parMci{:at€; , all of whom had quaxified for this final event through the June 6th Cattle Penning competition. The winners of the Open Division were Marlene Berster, Ken Bester and Pat Clarke. The Amateur event was won by Ken Slovak, Yvonne Krause and Carl Tory (pictured on the front) . Both teams received silver buckles donated by Westbrook Trading Company Ltd. plus prize money.
The barbecue and dance which followed in the evening was attended by 150 people. The band "Bobcat Logic" was outstanding and everyone celebrated in style. A 100th Anniversary cake (picture on the front), made by Kathy Grant of Okotoks was cut at midnight and served to everyone in attendance .
Sunday was Family Day. Events held were Gymkhanas, put on by the DeWinton Riding Club and a Western Horse Show, put on by the agricultural society. The Pony Club held a small show and also gave pony rides to children attending the day.
The newly formed Foothills Poultry and Rabbit club had a display of their animals and there were clowns handing out balloons and suckers.
The Longshot Canine Entertainer day group put on an excellent demonstration with their talented dogs. All these
groups operate out of Hebson Arena .
The weather was outstanding both days making all the events just that much more enjoyable. Some of the results of the Sunday events were: Western Pleasure Stake class was won by Eric McGhee; Freestyle reining was won by Cathy Stav.
Highlights for Rae Hunter were the canine demonstrations which were presented in a serious manner from which the dogs strayed to add a touch of humour to the event.
The freestyle reining event for which riders/trainers dressed in a costume related the musical theme they chose and was quite enjoyable. It was quite amazing to see the discipline of both the horse and rider. It is a great event gaining popularity.
All in all, the celebration was an outstanding success enjoyed by both competitors and spectators alike.
K.A.C. Agricultural Society
Report by: Rae Hunter, Program Leadership Consultant, Alberta Agriculture, Agricultural and Community Services Branch
The Kirriemuir, Altario, and Compeer communities cooperate under the name K.A.C. Agricultural Society.
Their fair, held at the community school in Altario, was indicative of their cooperation. I felt like I had arrived in at a family reunion.
People came from Oyen, Provost, Neutral Hills, Alliance and points in between both as fair participants and exhibitors. It was truly a family affair from babes in arm to grandparents .
We enjoyed well displayed exhibits, kids games and races, "Rachel the Hutterite" act, community dinner, award presentations, local talent, and I saw my first Ostriches in the livestock show; shown by Healys ' Ostrich Ranch, Neutral Hills, Alberta.
THANK YOU to two community minded VOLUNTEER JUDGES; Nancy Ferrence and Maggie Baier.
6 -
Wetaskiwin Shopping Mall and the Wetaskiwin Agricultural Society jointly presented their agricultural fair to the community.
Dave Olsen, the mall manager, agreed to provide the facility for the bench show and I understand that he was pleased, the mall merchants were pleased and Julie Stalker of the fair committee felt it was a very successful union.
Congratulations to all!
What Makes an Organization Strong?
There are two critical factors that enable an organization to prosper and survive —
1 . The development of a Board of Directors with the right blend of talents and contacts for the organization. The board must function well as a unit, and understand its role and the role of the executive director and staff.
2. The creation of a good organizational plan. If a strong board is in place, that board will usually ensure that a strong plan is developed and continually reviewed and tested for relevancy. The plan should include long-range goals that provide direction, as well as an annual strategic plan that supports the long-range goals.
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AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY INFORMATION
THAT'S ECONOMIC COOPERATION
An events booklet for 1992 Foothills Horse Shows was published cooperatively by Champion, Sandstone, Priddis, High River, Turner Valley and Okotoks Horse Shows .
The cost of this collective effort was more economical than printing individual show calenders and their publicity reached more than one community.
Perhaps a groupuig of agr. cultural societies could cooperate to improve their visibility for fairs, events or just a "getting to know us" publication for their area.
1992 FARM FAMILY
AWARDS ^
Agricultural Society people were among the winners of the 1992 Farm Family Awards for central and northern Alberta; selected by the Farm Family Awards Committee at Edmonton Northlands .
The farm families being honoured this year were nominated by 35 district Agricultural Service Boards from Township 34 ( Innisf ail/Bowden area) north. The Farm Family Awards Committee evaluated the farming expertise and community involvement of each applicat^'on before ak i ng their d- . ision.
The annual awards recognize the achievements of rural citizens, promote a better relationship between rural and urban people, and encourage interest in Alberta's agriculture-based industries .
Planning is already under way for a special 25th anniversary Farm Family Awards celebration next year.
Many of the farm family winners are recognized in their community as leaders. It is good to see that individuals havf) been recognized at this level. Hopefully every
agricultural society will add their congratulations to their community winners along with these fair family awards.
COMMUNITY & SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT Lakeland College, Vermilion
VOLUNTEER BOARD DEVELOPMENT
A course developed to equip volunteer board members and agency staff with skills and knowledge to provide effective leadership. Boards are
encouraged to attend with 2-3 members plus their Executive Directors .
Course Content:
- Developing boardmanship skills
- how to conduct meetings
- teambuilding
- committee effectiveness Dates: (Mondays) October 19 -
November 9 Timo: 7:00 - 9:00 pm Fee: $30/person or $80 for
members from one board To Register: Phone 871-5716 or 871-5712
- 8 -
WO S HO I> S / O OlSIF E RE ISrC E S
Workshops are open to everyone and any group in the district .
FUND RAISING WORKSHOPS
Valleyview Region Wednesday, October 7, 1992 7:30 p.m.. Polar Palace, Swanson Room, Valleyview Registration: $15/person For Information Contact: Carmen Andrew, DHE, Phome: 524-3301 or FCSS Coordinator, 424-5150
Medicine Hat
Monday, November 16, 19 92 7:00 p.m. ,
Contact: Brenda Lee McPhail, DHE, Phone: 529-3511
Foremost
Tuesday, November 17, 1992 7:00 p.m.. Provincial Building Contact: Jackie McKnight, DHE,
Phone: 867-3606
Cardston
November 9, 1992
Contact: Christine Poss, DHE
Phone: 653-4461
VOLUNTEER DEVELOPMENT WORKSHOPS
Foremost
Wednesday, October 14, 1992 7:00 p.m.
Contact: Jackie McKnight, DHE, Phone: 867-3606
OPPORTUNITY
There is still space open for your Agricultural Society Board at the Agricultural Society Planning Workshop (brochure enclosed) .
November 20 - 22 1992 Goldeye Centre Nordegg, Alberta Contact: REDA 451-5959
This workshop will help you:
- focus on where you agricultural society really wants to go
- make useable, meaningful plans for practical results
- use input from the general membership for your plans
- work together with members of your board in a secluded setting
- share your ideas with members of other agricultural societies in an enjoyable comfortable atmosphere
MINI DISTRICT CONFERENCES
Medicine Hat
Friday, October 16, 1992
7:00 p.m.
Contact: Brenda Lee McPhail DHE, Phone: 529-3511
Cardston
Wednesday, October 21, 1992
Contact Phone :
Christine 653-4461
Poss, DHE,
Oyen
October 30 - 31, 1992 Contact: Jose Jardine Phone: 664-3850
Vauxhall November 27 Contact :
28, 1992
1993 Olds & District Dates to be confirmed
- 9 -
ISTEW RE
A.A.D.A.C.
There is a catalogue available listing all of AADAC ' s resource material for the various groups in your community. Catalogues can be ordered from:
Production & Distribution 2nd Floor, 10909 Jasper Ave. Edmonton, AB. T5J 3M9
Telephone: (403)427-7319 Fax: (403)422-5237
A specific resource also available at the above address is, "Tracking the Good Times" a helpful handbook for youth leaders .
This book is designed to encourage young people, ages 12-15 years, to take responsibility for creating enjoyable leisure activities for themselves through responsible decision making and action .
Something for the children of your community. Imagination market is a non-profit arts and recycling association that offers inexpensive reclaimed materials, workshops and conference ice-breakers for adults and children.
They were at the Camrose Fair when Rae met Anne Jourdan and crew involving young people (& adults) in fun & creative activities .
Imagination Market is dedicated to protecting the environment by increasing public awareness and education on reclaiming reducing and reusing materials traditionally seem as waste. Rae saw hats, whirly gigs, cats & pigs evolve from the most unusual items in the hands of creative, involved people.
Next time you are wondering what to do to involve youth give Anne Jourdan a call or write her and ask for a brochure (with costs)
Imagination Market 10215-112 Street Edmonton, AB T5K 1M7
Tel: (403) 426-1862
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY ON SHOW
An interesting & educational booth was displayed this summer, provided by Visitor Services, Legislative Assembly of Alberta.
The booth includes a colourful photographic history of the Alberta Legislative Building and an invitation to tour it's
- 10
facilities, park and even to watch democracy in action in the Legistative Chamber.
Fact sheets about how the assembly works. Alberta's parliamentary system, laws and what kinds of bills exist, symbols & traditions regarding the emblems of Alberta, styles of governing, the Mace, and the flag are only part of the information available at this booth .
An "Educational Program", 1991-92 outline and all of the above information is available to your community & schools. Call or write for details,
Maryanne Gibson, Manager, Visitor Services Legislative Building Edmonton, AB Tel: (403) 427-7362 or 427-8414
REDUCE LOSS
INCREASE PROFIT!
Reprinted from Alberta Tourism, Parks & Recreation Newsletter.
The cost of providing energy has increased dramatically over the past few years and will likely continue to rise in the future. Implementing an energy management program to reduce costs makes good sense. If you are interested in reducing your costs, why not start by requesting a visit from the "Energy Bus"?
WHAT IS AN ENERGY BUS?
It is a vehicle equipped with a computer and various monitoring devices needed for in-plant checks. Staffed by a team of engineers and technologists, the energy bus visits industrial, commercial and institutional buildings throughout the province.
The team will inspect your plant, analyze your energy use, advise you of conservation measures you might take, and estimate how much you would save. There is no obligation to do anything the audit team suggests. The audit is a free service offered by Alberta Department of Energy.
If you, as an owner or manager of a recreation facility, wish to take advantage of an analysis of your facilities energy use and receive the expert advice offered by the audit team, please write to:
Alberta Department of Energy Energy Efficiency Branch Seventh Floor, 9945 - 108 Street Edmonton, AB T5K 2G6 Phone: 427-5200
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OOVERrsTMElMT
ON THE MOVE
Alberta Culture and Multiculturism
The following offices have moved to :
7th Floor, Standard Life Center 10405 Jasper Avenue, Edmonton, AB. T5J 4R7
Office of the Deputy Minister:
Office of the Executive Director, Finance & Administration
Financial Operations Branch
Systems & Information Services Branch
Human Resources Branch
Communication Branch
Office of the Assistant Deputy Minister Cultural Development Division
Cultural Industries Office
Arts Branch has now moved to: 3rd Floor, Beaver House 10158 - 103 Street Edmonton, AB T5J 0X6 Fax: 422-9132
Film Censor Board is not
located at:
5th Floor, Beaver House 10158-103 Street Edmonton, AB T5J 0X6
* The telephone numbers have not changed.
QUESTIONS OF THE TIME
"Which Minister is responsible for ?"
"How do I locate this person?"
Whether it's to thank them or question, here's a list to pin on the wall.
Hon. Al ADAIR
Transportation & Utilities Rm. 208, Legislature Building Tel: 427-2080
Hon. Dennis ANDERSON Consumer & Corporate Affairs Rm. 229, Legislature Building Tel: 427-2305
Hon. Nancy BETKOWSKI Health
Rm. 323, Legislature Building Tel: 427-3665
Hon. Roy BRASSARD Minister Responsible of Seniors Rm. 107, Legislature Building Tel: 427-0141
Hon. Jim DINNING Education
Rm. 402, Legislature Building Tel: 427-2025
Hon. Peter Elzinga Economic Development & Trade Rm. 324, Legislature Building Tel: 427-2134
Hon. LeRoy FJORDBOTTEN Forestry, Lands & Wildlife Rm. 408, Legislature Building Tel: 427-3674
Hon. Dick FOWLER
Municipal Affairs /Native
Affairs
Rm. 319, Legislature Building Tel: 427-3744
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Hon. John GOGO
Advanced Education/Deputy Government House Leader Rm. 227, Legislature Building Tel: 427-2291
Hon. Jim HORSMAN
Federal /Intergovrnmental
Affairs
Deputy Premier
Rm. 320, Legislature Building Tel: 427-2585
Hon. Ernie ISLEY Agriculture
Rm. 131, Legislature Building Tel: 427-2137
Hon. Dick JOHNSTON Provincial Treasurer Rm. 224, Legislature Building Tel: 427-8809
Hon. Ralph KLEIN Environment
Rm. 130/ Legislature Building Tel: 427-2391
Hon. Ken KOWALSKI Public Works, Supply & Services Alberta Gaming Commission Rm. 132, Legislature Building Tel: 427-3666
Hon. Doug MAIN Culture & Multiculturalism Rm. 418, Legislature Building Tel: 427-4928
Hon. Shirley McCLELLAN Assoc. Min. Agriculture/ Minister Responsible for Rural Development
Rm. 127, Legislature Building Tel: 427-9156
Hon. Elaine McCOY Labour
Rm. 103, Legislature Building Tel: 427-3664
Hon. John OLDRING Family & Social Services Rm. 104, Legislature Building Tel: 427-2606
Hon. Rick ORMAN Energy
Rm. 228, Legislature Building Tel: 427-3740
Hon. Ken ROSTAD
Attorney General
Rm. 423, Legislature Building
Tel: 427-2339
Hon. Don SPARROW Tourism, Parks & Recreation Rm. 424, Legislature Building Tel: 427-3162
Hon. Fred STEWART
Tech, . Research & Telecom.
Government House Leader
Rm. 403, Legislature Building
Tel: 427-5982
Hon. Peter TRYNCHY
Minister Responsible for
Occupational Health &
Safety/WCB. Alberta Public
Safety Services
Rm. 420. Legislature Building
Tel: 427-2608
Hon. Norm WEISS
Career Development & Employment Rm. 404, Legislature Building Tel: 427-0358
Hon. Steve WEST Solicitor General/ALCB Responsible for Professions and Occupations
Rm. 425, Legislature Building Tel: 427-2468
Hon. Dr. David CARTER Speaker
Rm. 325, Legislature Building Tel: 427-2464
AGRICULTURAL SOCIETIES
N E W S L E T Twas was the week before Christmas And all through the hall No directors were sleeping They v^ere having a ball.
R
DECEMBER 1992
The secretary had written each director's name with care The list of activities was the President's to prepare The treasurer had presented the Accountant's Review- Each director was pleased with the year they'd been through.
The cheques had been copied The invoices were found The numbers were filled in Grants were Edmonton bound.
When out in the lobby there rose such a clatter They set down their punch to see what was the matter And what through their wondering eyes did they see But some new members with ideas for 1993.
There were members with plans for updating the fair And all kinds of agricultural programs to share A new display to let people know more about food Some youth programs proposed by a very cool dude.
The enthusiasm grew, such a fun place to be
The agricultural society was the focus of the whole community
Now in the big city the Community Services Section Prepares for the grants and reports they're expectin' . Anne waits by the phone with pen in hand For dates to make the fairbook look grand.
The files have been labelled and sorted with flare Grants for Rae, Andy and Louise to review with care Calculators hum and typwriters clatter The deadline is near and nerves are getting shattered.
Soon the grants will be paid and the year ends recorded But now we must start on the workshops you ordered. It all sounds quite hectic and not too much fun. But with a sense of good humor the work all gets done.
So from us folks in the city to our volunteer friends Who are resourceful, helpful and incredibly bright We hope that the work and the fun never ends Merry Christmas to All and To All A Good Night !
y^lberia
AGRICULTURE
AGRICULTURAL AND COMMUNITY SERVICES, RURAL SERVICES DIVISION 7000-113 ST., EDMONTON, ALBERTA T6H 5T6 PHONE 427-2171 ISSN: 0228-1090
What's In this Issue ... Upcoming Events
"Creating Tomorrow" 3
Managing Agriculture Conference (MAC '93). . 3 Alberta Assoc. of Agricultural Societies
(AAAS) Conference .... 3
Agriculture Week 3
Thoughts on Financial Responsibility ... 4 I Found an Investment Worth More Than Gold 6
Congratulations and Bouquets 7
Cooperation Ideas 8
Agriculture Ambassador Fair 8
Retirements 9
International Year 9
Reminders
Fair Dates 10
Grants 10
Year End Reports 10
This year, every active agricultural society submitted its year end reports and is in good standing until January 15, 1993.
Tjri>CC3IVlIIsrG eveistts
Agricultural society members involved in "Creating Tomorrow"
public meetings should note, January 6 - 8, 1993. This is the date of a conference being held at the Westerner in Red Deer. This conference is the final stage in the consultation process .
A registration package was enclosed with this newsletter.
Changed Conference for Changing Times
Alberta Agriculture's, "Managing Agriculture for Profit" (MAP) Conference is no longer. In its stead comes the Managing Agriculture Conference (MAC'93), from February 1-3, 1993, in Red Deer.
This conference has been a popular event for farm families for the last 15 years .
Conference speakers will discuss the theme of "a time for change" in agriculture. Speakers include market and financial analysts, business leaders, communicators, psychologists, humorists and farm entrepreneurs from across Canada.
Brochures and registration forms are available at Alberta Agriculture district offices.
A.A. A.S. (Alberta Association of Agricultural Societies) Convention in Medicine Hat, February 12-14, 1993.
Machine Quilting and Sugar & Spice Tote workshops will be held Friday, February 12 from 9:00 - 4:30, and
Applique Basics and Drunkard Path quilting will be held, Saturday, February 13th.
For information and registration, call: Wendy in Edmonton at 427-2174.
AGRICULTURE WEEK March 7-13, 1993
Plan to be part of this week and support agriculture.
What activities can your agricultural society sponsor?
- 3 -
THOUGHTS (RULES) ON FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
All agricultural societies have a number of hard working volunteers who raise money for the organization. As fund raising gets harder, directors are forced to review their money management.
Wait a minute!
Let's stop right there!
Isn't all that money business the treasurer's job? The answer as many organizations are finding out is NO.
The treasurer is often a director, just like the rest of the board. The treasurer is a volunteer who, like all other positions , takes their direction from the board as a whole.
The board should consider their financial responsibility, using the following idea.
Treasurer's should note that all other bills must come to the board of directors to be paid.
2: The board should expect and demand accurate financial reports at every regular meeting. The treasurer is NOT the only person responsible for the finances of your organization. The Board of Directors needs an accurate financial picture as a basis for good decision making.
3: Never sign a blank cheque.
Most individuals would not do this with their own bank account . Yet, I have seen and
even myself, signed
blank cheques so that
the treasurer would have them.
The treasurer is then a single authority for that cheque and could write in their own name and cash the cheque .
1 : No decision on spending money should be made without a motion. No matter how small or large an expenditure, motions should be made by the directors to pay the bills.
Practically all agricultural societies have regularly occuring expenses which they would like to pay as the bills are due. IDEA In January, list all the regular bills which should be paid, generally these include all utilities. The motion could read that the treasurer is directed to pay; (Ust all regular bill sources) as they come due. Discuss and pass this motion.
When signing cheques , at least fill in the "Pay to the Order of" section. For example, a cheque for Alberta Utilities could be made out and the amount filled in as it comes due .
The best way for all directors to accept their part of financial responsibility is to always ensure that at least two individuals sign cheques .
- 4 -
4 : Develop a Budget Each committee should send this information to the treasurer prior to the annual meeting. A budget should be prepared with the help of all the directors . It will be your best guess and should provide some guidance to each director as to the cash flow position.
5: Understand and ask questions about your agricultural society*s financial statements. The financial statement presented at your annual meeting is your best information about the money you work hard to raise. All the members and especially directors should understand your financial picture and agree with the information presented.
Remember, the only "dumb" question is the one not asked.
Support your treasurer by helping them in their role. The treasurer needs direction of the directors and probably feels more confident knowing that all the directors have a say in the spending of the agricultural society's hard earned cash.
If all the directors are working to raise the money, it only makes sense that they all feel a part of spending it.
For more information on financial management, contact the Agricultural & Community Services Branch (Phone 427-2171) or pick up the Fact Sheet, "A Guide to Financial Management for Non-Profit Organizations" , Homedex 1932-10, at your local District Agriculture Office.
NOW HEAR THIS!
I FOUND AN INVESTMENT WORTH MORE THAN GOLD - Rae Hunter, Program Leadership Consultant
I am very impressed and pleased with the terrific leadership shown by- agricultural societies.
The District Conferences held by Big Country Agricultural Society in Oyen and Vauxhall Agricultural Society in Vauxhall were great examples of team effort towards success .
THIS YEAR'S THEME FOR THE CONFERENCES IS - BEING VISIBLE IN YOUR COMMUNITY AND THROUGHOUT ALBERTA
It's hard to admit but overall they did a better job than we've done. Both societies had their board out in full force and every volunteer director had a specific responsibility to assure the conference's success. Congratulations to both communities !
The Olds Agricultural Society has brought their leaders together to organize a District Conference for January 22 & 23, 1993.
One week following a meeting with them, I returned to find a 5-page FAX from their designated coordinator, Kathleen Windsor. She outlined their plans for sessions, based on suggestions you sent to this office, speakers and a draft agenda. (I made the initial date announcement mistake, be sure to check your calendar) .
This partnership with agricultural society volunteer leaders has exceeded my wildest dreams. We are going to have a top notch new year. Other communities who have accepted the responsibility to host and organize workshops or conferences are showing the same enthusiasm.
Congratulations and Bouquets
Okotoks Agricultural Society They burned their mortgage during their annual meeting, November 28th.
Big Country and Vauxhall Agricultural Societies For organizing successful district conferences in their area .
Picture Butte & District Agricultural Society For not only a very efficient, well run meeting but also for having people volunteer to become directors.
The Westerner Exposition Association (Red Deer) For offering to host and organize a volunteer development workshop for agricultural societies within range of their community for March 27, 1993.
Wildwood, Wanham and Tofield Agricultural Societies For hosting the Regional Agricultural Society meetings their areas.
New Sarepta Agricultural Society
They are taking an opportunity to explore their future with a Board Planning Workshop. This is a cooperative training effort between REDA and Alberta Agriculture.
Valleyview & District Agricultural Society An opportunity to discuss common problems successes and concerns, January 23, 1992.
Grassland & Districts Agricultural Society Hosted a gathering of five community groups to share ideas for future cooperation.
Donalda & District Agricultural Society In the process of organizing an agricultural society director's workshop for the new year.
COOPERATION IDEAS ]
The agricultural societies in the Sedgewick area have met once with the district staff to look at potential ideas for cooperation and support.
Trevor Yurchak, local District Agriculturist, was encouraged by the number of agricultural societies represented at this first meeting.
There were lots of good ideas brought forward from agricultural societies wanting to do more with agriculture. Agriculture Week was a start, but many organizations want to increase their ties with agriculture awareness in the future .
Trevor hopes that agricultural societies in his district will be an informal advisory group. The leaders from these communities could help the agriculture office in sponsoring training and educational programs. Agricultural societies should be able to provide direction to the district staff for programs for the future.
There are tremendous advantages in cooperation. The agricultural societies can do a lot by working together. Trevor hopes that this will be the start of great programs for the future.
AGRICULTURAL SOCIETIES CONTINUE TO SUPPORT AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION
The Agriculture Ambassador Fair is planned with enjoyable education in mind. The organizers hope it will provide some highly motivational projects for students in all subject areas from Kindergarten to Grade 12 and allow them to demonstrate their abilities and ideas in a school fair atmosphere.
Your agricultural society could support this project in the future. The prize list could be used as an outline for your summer fair.
The fair is celebration of the Agriculture Ambassador Program which is jointly sponsored by Alberta Wheat Pool and Alberta Agriculture .
Everyone is welcome to attend the fair and join us for an afternoon of entertainment, including such events as: working stock dog, sack races, mock auction, calf roping, butter making and hog calling.
The fair is February 26 - 27, 1993 in Medicine Hat.
For more Details, contact:
Agriculture in the Classroom Program Phone: 427-2402
Trevor Yurchak is the District Agriculturist in the Sedgewick Office. You can reach him at 384-3737.
RET I REMEISTTS
Irene Leavitt^ the Assistant Deputy Minister of Field Services, will be leaving Agriculture after 35 years of dedicated service .
Irene has attended the agricultural societies conventions in the past years and was known as a strong voice in support of rural organizations .
Don Jacques was honoured' in Calgary November 26th.
Don is retiring after 12 years as the General Manager of the Calgary Exhibition & Stampede
He has done a lot for agricultural organizations and the cause of agriculture. His wisdom was an asset to all agricultural societies, no matter what size.
Gordon Porteous, Past President of AAAS, paid tribute to Irene on behalf of agricultural societies at her farewell held in November.
We wish her well in her future activities and encourage her to volunteer. Her talents will be an asset to any organization .
Agricultural societies from across the province join in wishing him well in his future .
KAPPY NEW YEAR ★ HAPPY NEW YEAR ★ HAPPY NEW YEAR ★ HAPFY M£W YEAR * HAPPY P^£W YEAR * HAPPY NiW YEAR ★ HAJW YEA
INTERNATIONAL YEAR
Each year, the United Nations focuses on one group or cause. This year, 1993, has been de- clared "The Year of Aboriginal Peoples" .
Looking ahead, 1994 has been designated "International Year of the Family". The Premier's Council in Support of Alberta Families, invites you to join in identifying ways that we can all work together to enhance and support families in this province.
The Premier's Council has developed some planning resources for all target groups .
Please contact their office to obtain information and be involved :
Premier's Council in Support of Alberta Families Hilltop House, 9910 - 103 St. Edmonton, Alberta T5K 0X8 Phone: 422-0475 Fax: 427-2117
- 9 -
]RJE M INO JS Ft S
Fair Dates
Each year we publish the Fairs and Exhibitions dates for those agricultural societies who have sent us the information.
Year End Reports
January 15, 1993 is a very important day for all agricultural societies. By that date, our office should receive :
There are 2500 copies of this booklet distributed. If you don't want to be missed, send the 1993 fair dates to:
Anne Bennett
Agricultural & Community Services Branch
#201, J.G. O'Donoghue Building 7000 - 113 Street Edmonton AB T6H 5T6
Grants
Applications for your 1992 fair and operating grants should be sent by March 1 .
Call Louise or Rae if you need an explanation or help applying for these grants.
- A List of Officers for the 1993 activities
- Report of 1992 activities
- Financial Statements reviewed by a designated accountant
If you want to be in "Good Standing", meet this deadline
★ HAPPY NEW YEAFjf
AGRICULTURAL
SOCIETIES MAY -61993
NEWSLETTER
MARCH 199 3
RAE HUNTER RECEIVES AWARD
It was smiles all around at the February 1993 annual conference of the Alberta Association of Agricultural Societies when it was announced that Rae Hunter, Program Consultant was awarded the Association's Award of Merit .
During Rae ' s seven years of employment working with agricultural societies, she has been an inspiration to all she meets in encouraging the leadership development of agricultural societies in southern Alberta.
The Association's Award of Merit is in recognition of outstanding contributions of
individuals to the well being of agricultural societies in Alberta .
The award has only been given once since its inception in 1988. At that time it was given to Mr. George Hughes on the occasion of his retirement as General Manager of Edmonton Northlands .
The staff of the Agricultural Societies Program at Alberta Agriculture, Food and Rural Development would like to thank the Board and members of the Association for their kind words and appreciation of Rae ' s work.
/dibcrra
AGRICULTURE
AGRICULTURAL AND COMMUNITY SERVICES, RURAL SERVICES DIVISION 7000-113 ST., EDMONTON, ALBERTA T6H 5T6 PHONE 427-2171 ISSN: 0228-1090
- 2 -
March 4, 1993, Honourable Ernie Isley announced that Alberta Agriculture is changing its name to Alberta Agriculture, Food and Rural Development .
During the recent public consultations participants emphasized the diversity of the agriculture and food industry in Alberta. Participants of the Creating Tomorrow initiative acknowledged that the industry is composed of a variety of partners and that communication between those partners must be enhanced.
Alberta Agriculture, Food and Rural Development is committed to enhancing that communication. The name change emphasizes the Government of Alberta's commitment to the Province's diverse agriculture and food industry.
RURAL SERVICES DIVISION
The Rural Services Division name has been changed to Rural Development Division. This change gives a clear focus to rural development activities within the department.
BRANCH NAME
The Agricultural and Community Services Branch has joined with the Agricultural Education Branch.
Reg Kontz is the head of the new Agricultural Education and Community Services Branch.
RAE HUNTER, Program Leadership Consultant for Regions 1, 2 & 3 has retired effective March 31, 1993.
Andy, Anne and Louise are keeping their names and we will continue to serve your needs .
WRATHS IN THIS ISSUE
Rae Receives Award .... Cover
Changes 2
Year of Craft in the Americas. 3
Vitalize '93 3
Visibility 4
"Farmer's Share of the Food $. 4 Remember 1993 Fair Books ... 4 Stavely Celebrates 80th ... 4
Keep In Touch 5
Become a Partner in IMAGINE . 5 Volunteers and The Law .... 5 Volunteer Appreciation Week . 6 1994 International Year ... 6 A Message From Rae 7
1993 is the YEAR OF CRAFT IN THE AMERICAS (A celebration of craft in Canada, the USA, Central and South America)
In honour of this celebration, on December 9, 1992, Honourable Doug Main proclaimed 1993 as the Year of Craft in Alberta.
The Alberta Craft Council is planning a year long celebration, promoting craft awareness in Alberta as well as participating in national and international events celebration "The Year" in Canada and the USA.
All art galleries, allied arts clubs and visual arts organization to participate. If you have events planned for 1993 that focus on crafts or includes a craft element, we would like you to announce it as part of the 1993 celebrations .
The following logo is available to put on posters, invitations, news releases and any other promotional materials .
1993 yy celebrate y/^^-^^^ craft/
in the americas
1993 year of craft in alberta
If you would like further information on the Year of Craft in the Americas there is a participation guide also available to you from:
Susan Abells, Exec. Director Alberta Craft Council #509, 10136 - 100 Street, Edmonton, AB, T5J OPl Phone: 428-1654 or FAX: 425-2314.
VITALIZE '93 Convention Centre, Calgary June 10, 11 and 12, 1993
The WILD ROSE FOUNDATION is
hosting this Fifth Annual Provincial Volunteer Conference to assist Alberta's volunteer sector.
There's something worthwhile at this conference for you - whether you're a volunteer in your organization, a staff member working in the volunteer non-profit area or a member of the Board of Directors .
Over 55 educational sessions will be offered in the streams of Human, Financial and Organization Development.
Register before May 20
The $93.00 registration fee
includes all educational
sessions, meals, nutrition
breaks, GST, entertainment and
transportation by chartered
coach.
Vitalize '93 Hop-A-Bus will provide pre-registered delegates with free transportation to and from the conference (pick-up depots in Southern Alberta: Cardston, Lethbridge and Medicine Hat) .
For more information phone: Laurie Brooks, Special Projects Consultant 422-9305.
- 4 -
VISIBILITY
for Agricultural Societies in 1993 was the theme suggested by Southern Alberta Agricultural Societies at a District Conference.
Thanks to those who supported their District Conferences organized and hosted by Oyen, Vauxhall, Olds and Red Deer.
Those who missed - really missed not only super conferences/workshops but an opportunity to meet other agricultural society members and to share ideas, concerns and brag a little.
Verdant Valley
Agricultural
Society
had a booth at the Drumheller Trade Fair in April 1992. The display, viewed by several thousand visitors, depicted the "Farmer's Share of the Food Dollar" .
Items were displayed on the table, with the following messages .
Consumer Cost Value to Farmer Bread ($1.29) wheat ($.04) Flour ($3.39) wheat ($.27) Crackers ($1.55) wheat ($.03) Pasta ($2.25) wheat ($.06) Cereal ($3.99) wheat ($0.07) Cookies ($3.99) oats and wheat
($0.04) Canola Oil ($2.47) Canola Seed ($.60) Beer ($1.10) barley ($.01)
In some cases, if the farmer gave away his product, the consumer price would scarcely change." (Report by Hon. Ralph Ferguson, MP, August 1991).
REMEMBER
Send us a copy of your 1993 fairbook at least 6 weeks prior to your fair.
1992 marked the 80th Anniversary of the Stavely Indoor Rodeo. They celebrated this event with over 1,000 people .
- 5
KEEP IN TOUCH WITH FORMER BOARD MEMBERS
When board members end their term of office, many of them leave the
organization. This can be a terrible waste of knowledge, expertise, contacts and energy.
Instead of retiring board members, have you considered making them associate members or supporters?
These people have been committed to your organization in the past and chances are good they will consider supporting your organization in the future.
By maintaining these valuable connections with past board members, your organization can continue to benefit from their valuable skills and influence as volunteers.
A new spirit of giving
A njdonji pr(>);ram lo cni:ouri){e f;ivin^ inil vnlunicennji
IMAGINE
Become a Partner is IMAGINE
The goal of IMAGINE is to increase public and corporate awareness of the importance of philanthropy, the giving of both time and money.
Help spread the message of A NEW SPIRIT OF GIVING that will benefit the charitable sector as a whole - and, as part of that important sector, your organization .
For information on how your voluntary organization can be a partner, call the Resource Centre For Voluntary Organizations at 441-4623.
VOLUNTEERS AND THE LAW
A copy of the article, "Liabilities of Persons Involved in Volunteer Organizations" (Taken from the Spring 1993 Edition of CONNECTIONS Newsletter prepared by the Resource Centre for Voluntary Organizations, is enclosed for your information.
- 6 -
VOLUIsTTEER A.E> E> RE O I AT I OlST WEEK April 18 - 24, 1993
Today's volunteers belong to a new breed. These active individuals already have busy jobs, families, hobbies and interests. Many can't offer their services between nine and five - so organizations have to be flexible and work around their schedules.
Most volunteers want short- term, task-oriented responsibilities. Tell them what's expected so they know exactly what they're getting into .
Follow through -- if you say a meeting will be an hour long, make sure it doesn't run over.
After you've recruited your volunteers, conduct personal interviews - become familiar with their interests, experience and skills. Give them a job with clearly defined responsibilities. Be realistic in what you ask volunteers to do - if you ask too much, the task will stop being fun.
Above all, don't forget to thank your volunteers - make them feel special. In addition to the personal satisfaction derived, they want to feel appreciated for their hard work.
1994 International Year of the Family Annee Internationale de la famille
The United Nations has declared 1994 International Year of the Family
Included as an insert with this newsletter is your invitation to plan your 1994 events around the families in your community.
This invitation includes a Vision Statement, Objectives and Guiding Principles and an Idea Checklist for Community Associations .
If you would like more information or further assistance in planning your events, contact our office at #201, J.G. O'Donoghue Building, Edmonton, AB T6H 5T6 or phone: (403) 427-2171.
7 -
A Message from Rae
I have the following comments for the agricultural societies and volunteers I've enjoyed working with so much.
It is with joy and an element of sadness that I am retiring. It has been in my mind for some time now, but every time I got out into the field with you wonderful people, I didn't want to leave. However, now the time has come for me to spend more time with my family. To let my husband experience having a wife under foot. To have more time to hug my children and grandchildren.
I have a garden to plant, weeds to gather and eat while I'm waiting for the garden to grow and time to smell the daisies .
I plan to continue teaching natural basketry and to become a relaxed basket case. I received a grant from the Alberta Arts Foundation to research natural basket materials in Alberta. You may find me gathering in your back 40.
I am committed to do two basketry exhibitions in September - one in Stony Plain at the Oppertshauser Gallery and the other in Whitehorse at the Yukon Gallery.
As volunteers, you have worked with me to make workshops, mini conferences, rural initiatives and the interchange of ideas meaningful .
There are now experienced conference planners in Oyen, Vauxhall and Olds and I hope that you will relaize that the ideas I shared were relayed from your experiences. You are your own best resources and a vital link in community betterment .
I will miss you. Yes, it's the people I'll miss in all aspects of my job. I've been very lucky. I've had the support of volunteers and co- workers to keep my dreams and ideas at ground level and to risk flying with me.
Some of you have pushed me on occasion. Ross Gibb from Taber gets a gold star or keeping me in line. I will be forever greatful for what I have learned from you.
The sadness is in realizing the time of sharing with you with you will change. The sadness is in realizing the time of sharing with you will change. The leadership shown by the people in agricultural societies and their communities has always surpassed my expectations.
Be sure to make ways to create links between societies. The support you require from this office is still just a phone call away.
Cheers !
AGRICULTURAL SOCIETIES
CANADIANA
JUN -71993
N
W
R
JUNE 1993
WHY BE AN EXHIBITOR?
Reasons for entering your exhibits at the fair are as many as there are individual exhibitors .
Common reasons are:
1) For self-satisfaction, a
chance to show your work to other community members.
2) For competition, a chance to have your work rated against others .
3) For education, a chance to learn from your peers, convenors and judges.
4) For community support of
local fair volunteers and activities .
FAIR VISITING
A Summertime Tradition
Alberta Exhibitions Fairs and Agricultural Societies 1993,
Agdex #007 - is now available from:
Print Media Branch
Alberta Agriculture, Food and
Rural Development
7000 - 113 Street
Edmonton, T6H 5T6
2,000 copies of this free hand out have been printed to assist in locating fairs and other activities of agricultural societies in Alberta throughout the year.
WHAT IS AN EXHIBITOR?
An exhibitor:
5)
/diberra
AGRICULTURE
Keeps an open mind. Reads the prize book Follows class requirements as outlined in the prize list for size, quantity, type, etc .
Is knowledgeable of the judging standards of their entries. Doesn't always expect to win .
AGRICULTURAL AND COMMUNITY SERVICES, RURAL SERVICES DIVISION 7000-113 ST., EDMONTON, ALBERTA T6H 5T6 PHONE 42^-2171 ISSN: 0228-1090
AGRICULTURAL SOCIETIES
Stand up and be counted!
Of the 291 active agricultural societies in Alberta, only L5 have not met the annual requirements for year end returns under the Agricultural Societies Act of Alberta.
GOOD WORK ! !
Please send a copy of your 1993 fair book to us at Community Services .
We get many requests for information on fair book set up, classes, rules and regulations .
The best source of information on how to set up a fair book is from examples of your current book.
Thanks for your help!
SUMMER AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION INSTITUTE
Olds College, Olds, Alberta
Wednesday, July 14, 1993, 5:00pm - 8:00pm will be a special display by agricultural industry participants.
The Institute is a week-long training session for educators in Agriculture in the Classroom.
Wednesday evening 5-8:00 pm is set aside for general public viewing of many informative displays for industry and government .
If you are in the neighbourhood of Olds College - check it out.
JUDGING STANDARDS FOR FOODS, SEWING AND HANDICRAFTS
An updated version of this popular book is now available at your District Office.
Ask for Homedex 980-10.
OLOS SOCIETY
A Little Bit of Everything
The Olds Agricultural Society has been around since 1899. Recently, the Board of Directors identified that longevity does not always mean familiarity .
The result is a series of monthly news releases which are being printed in the Olds Gazette .
The following is a sample of the April News Release.
"The Olds Agricultural Society was founded in 1899 and is still dedicated to the encouragement and promotion of agriculture, horticulture, home making, cultural activities and improvement of the quality of life in the community."
add
"These may seem like broad objectives for a society whose main reason for being often seems to be simply putting on a summer f air . "
"It is, but the members of the Olds Agricultural Society are actively involved in all these aspects in one way or another."
"Besides sponsoring the Mountain View County Fair, the society supports the Olds Farmers' Market, provides scholarships and bursaries to post-secondary institutions, hosts conferences and workshops .
"Olds Agricultural Society also helps sponsor the Santa Glaus Parade and assists other organizations including the Olds Gollege Judging Glub, STARS, Glassroom Agriculture Program, local 4-H clubs. Range Patrol, the Volunteer Fire Department, the Kiwanis Music Festival, Santa's Anonymous and various sports and school teams . "
"The society also supports their many volunteers with an appreciation banquet every winter. "
d Ci d
"Agricultural society facilities are used for many livestock sales and shows, 4-H shows and competitions and various rodeos, clinics and field days . "
d d d
"Membership in the Olds Agricultural Society is just $5.00 per year and is available to anyone over 18 years of age who supports the objectives.
There are four general membership meetings per year and the elected Board of Directors meet at the Gow Palace Board Room on the last Thursday of each month."
"The agricultural society office is open every week day morning . "
Is this an idea for promotion and awareness that would work for your society?
GOVERNMENT OF ALBERTA RESPONDS TO
CREATING TOMORROW
To complement its economic strategy, the Alberta Government released, "Breaking New Ground: The Government of Alberta Responds to Creating Tomorrow" .
"The Alberta Government has taken the first step to responding to Creating Tomorrow," says Ernie Isley, Minister of Alberta Agriculture, Food and Rural Development. "The second step is up to the industry. We encourage a frank resonse from industry stakeholders.
At Creating Tomorrow, a public consultation process conducted by the agriculture and food industry, participants identified a vision, goals and strategies for the industry's future. "Breaking New Ground" is the government's response. The document provides proposals in draft form for public consideration.
"Breaking new Ground" includes proposals for policies directed at improving the industry's competitive position, sustaining the natural resource base and the environment, and facilitating rural development as well as ways to re-allocate funds to finance the necessary changes .
"Proposed policies and plans will provide a positive environment for Albertans in the agriculture and food industry to compete in international trade," Isley says .
I hope that industry will view 'Breaking New Ground* as one more step in the consultative process that will yield positive results for the agriculture and food industry over the next decade," he adds.
Copies of "Breaking New Ground"
are available from:
Policy Secretariat
Alberta Agriculture, Food and
Rural Development,
#310, 7000 - 113 Street,
Edmonton, AB, T6H 5T6 .
HALL OF FAME NOMINATIONS
On May 21, 1993, Agriculture, Food and Rural Development Minister Ernie Isley invited the province's agriculture community to submit nominations for the Alberta Agriculture Hall of Fame.
"Hall of Fame awards honour the most outstanding members of our industry, past and present," siad Mr. Isley. "The awards also acknowledge the essential role played in the lives of all Albertans by agriculture and the members of our agriculture community . "
Nominations for the 1994 Agriculture Hall of Fame must be received by July 31, 1993. Forms are available through Alberta Agriculture district offices or by writing to: Alberta Agriculture Hall of Fame, Information Services Division, 7000 - 113 Street, Edmonton, T6H 5T6 .
FAIR lOEAS LIST
Agricultural Society Name:
This is your opportunity to share some of your successes and failures with other fair organizers.
Simply jot down the details and we will gather them into a "Fair Ideas Issue" of this newsletter.
1993 FAIR
We had great success with:
What didn't go over was:
New ideas for next year:
Please return to:
Agricultural Education & Community Services Branch Alberta Agriculture, Food & Rural Development #201, J.G. O'Donoghue Building 7000 - 113 Street, Edmonton T6H 5T6
:0
ICULTURAL OCIETIES
CANADIAN/
SEP 201993
NEW
THE IsFEW EXECUTIVE
R
FALL 1993
The majority of agricultural societies elect their new executives and board of directors in the fall. Hopefully all the new and existing directors hold an orientation session for the board.
lo Review the bylaws of the society. This can be a brief session to ensure that all directors understand the legal obligations of the board and the society.
2. Discuss all the directors job descriptions. Having this discussion should ensure that everyone understands their roles and responsibilities.
3. Set regular meeting dates for the next year. The
Agricultural Societies Act requires that all members and directors have notice of all meetings. By setting a regular date for the entire year, all directors will hopefully mark dates on their own calendars and not over book that date.
4. Establish all the committees required for the general operations. If a director is to be either the liaison or the chair of these committees, they should be clear about that role,
5. Designate someone on the board as the director in charge of any hired staff or personnel. This avoids a situation of uncertainty about who will represent the employer in any discussion of the work.
6. Review the financial statements and proposed budget. All directors should have factual information about how the agricultural society will do their fund raising and will meet all its obligations.
7. Outline the planned activities for the year.
8. Make the first meeting fun.
The agricultural societies who have little trouble recruiting directors and filling committees seem to share a common thread. They enjoy the work they do and they enjoy the people they work with on the board.
Directors who know the bylaws and procedures of the agricultural society will use their time more efficiently at meetings. With written job descriptions in hand, all directors will be more confident in their roles.
If you would like us to assist with your board orientation call us at 427-2171 and we will arrange a meeting.
/dibcrra
AGRICULTURE
AGRICULTURAL AND COMMUNITY SERVICES, RURAL SERVICES DIVISION 7000-113 ST., EDMONTON, ALBERTA T6H 5T6 PHONE 427 2171 ISSN: 0228-1090
FAIR AND OPERATING GRANT APPLICATIONS
All secretaries should now have received the new forms for these grants . We have received very positive comments from secretaries and treasurers who have completed their applications .
Time spent by the volunteers has been reduced in filing out the information. Another major saving is that PHOTOCOPIES OF CHEQUES AND INVOICES are no longer required.
If you have been wondering about accountability, note that the new application requires two signatures from directors who have signing authority.
Please keep all the information for two years to verify your grant claim.
Now that you know how easy it will be to apply for the grants, start filling them out and sending them to our office. You do not need to wait for March 1, 1994 if you have already spent more than the maximum.
What*s In This Issue?
New Executive
Orientation Sessions . . 1 Fair And Operating
Grant Applications 2 Annual Meeting 3
Notice of Meeting
Membership
Quorum
Agenda ( 4 ) How Successful
Was Your Fair? . 5 Important Telephone
Numbers 5
Toll Free Line
A.A.A.S. The Year Of The Family . 6 Regional Agricultural
Society Meetings . . 6
Why wait for spring do it now
2
THE AIsriSrUAL MEETHSTG
The fall is the time when the majority of agricultural societies hold their annual meeting. The requirements for this meeting are outlined both in your bylaws and the Agricultural Societies Act.
Review the procedures for this meeting well ahead of the scheduled date so that you have a clear understanding of what should happen.
Membership
The secretary and/or treasurer should be available at least one hour before the meeting to renew and sell memberships. This renewal of membership is very important as the list of members who are eligible to vote at the annual meeting.
The bylaws of most agricultural societies require Notice of Meeting that all directors are members
of the society.
All members of the agricultural society should have at least two weeks notice of the time and place of the meeting .
If you send a newsletter to all the members this should be noted. Consider putting a notice in your local newspaper as a way of providing written notice. Posters on bulletin boards in a few key areas of town may also help your advertising. A telephone committee could take sections of the membership list and divide up responsibility for calling all the members. Do whatever works well in your community to ensure that all members know about the meeting .
Quorum
The bylaws of each agricultural society specify the minimum number of members required for the annual meeting .
This number is usually no less than 10 and may be more for each organization.
3
(Cont'd. )
&
The order of business for an annual meeting is outlined in section 20 of the Agricultural Societies Act.
(a) Reading minutes of previous meeting; the minutes of all meetings should be kept in the official minute book of the agricultural society. Annual meeting minutes will include copies of all the reports of committees and directors .
require further discussion at this meeting. Ensure that all the information required is available prior to the meeting .
(e) New business; the executive should review their plans of action along with the budget to ensure that any items needing general membership approval be addressed at the annual meeting.
Because these minutes could be quite long, the secretary may wish to highlight any important aspects of business and have a few complete copies available for any member wishing more detail.
(b) Addresses and reports of officers; the executive should ask each director and committee head to provide a written copy of whatever report they will be presenting » This report should become part of tae minutes of the annual meeting.
Giving each director notice that a written report should be presented will help each director in planning for the meeting and focusing their thoughts prior to the meeting.
(c) Reports of committees; the
procedure for officers reports noted above should apply.
(d) Unfinished business; the secretary should provide the chair a list of all items that
(f) Addresses and discussions; this section is left as a part of the meeting open to the floor. Allow any members an opportunity to present their opinions and ideas about the future of the agricultural society and its operations.
(g) Election of officers; the Agricultural Societies Act specifies that the board of directors must have a minimum of 12 directors, the president, two vice-presidents and 9 other directors .
Note that all directors serve without compensation. In the case of an agricultural society having a paid secretary/treasurer, the total does not include that position.
(h) Adjournment. This could be the opportunity to add some socializing into the meeting. However if it is late, people may be quite ready to depart with the next directors meeting established.
4
HOW SUCCESSFUL WAS YOUR FAIR?
In our last newsletter we asked you to send in details of some of your success stories that happened at your fair this summer. We have had some replies but encourage you to send in you information. We will be publishing a special fairs section in our next newsletter, so send in you information if you wish to be included.
TOLL FREE GOVERNMENT RITE LINE
When calling our Alberta Agriculture, Food & Rural Development office, between 8:15 am and 4:30 pm, use the R.I.T.E. system.
Call through your nearest R.I.T.E. operator or use 1- 800-565-7483 (R.I.T.E.) ask for 427-2171 and we will be happy to answer your questions, provide information and discuss your training needs .
AAAS (Alberta Association of Agricultural Societies) has their own phone line as well as an answering machine.
Wendy Pruden will get back to you with fair supply orders, membership enquiries, quilt competition information and annual convention updates. Call 427- 2174 to reach their office .
5
1994 International Year of the Family Annee Internationale de la famille
Many agricultural societies will be using this theme throughout the coming year for special events and activities.
Some topics for Year of the Family Theme are:
Balancing work and family Issues in supporting aging parents with other family responsibilities (Sandwich Generation) How to use family evenings effectively Various aspects of family law
Family violence prevention
Importance of morals and values
Changing roles and realities of men, women and children Parent/teen
communications Conflict resolution Financial Management Problem Solving and Decision Ma k i nq Impact of Mass Media
REGIONAL AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY MEETINGS
Plans are under way for a series of agricultural societies meetings across the province. These meetings are an opportunity to share ideas and get new knowledge to help your organization. Mailouts with more detail about the meeting planned in your area will be going to your secretary.
Please note the date of the meeting in your area and plan to attend.
Multi-Regional Meeting
New Sarepta, October 23, 1993
Peace Regional Meeting Manning, October 30, 1993
MQrt.heast Regional Meeting V^^rmiiion, November 16, 1993
Southcentral Regional Meeting Cross field, January 29, 1994
Southern Regional Meeting To date we have not received an offer from a group in the South to host this year's regional meeting. If you are interested, or know someone who is -- please let us know.
Please call the Community Services staff, Louise, Andy or Anne if you would like more information.
6
I DO c 2.
AGRICULTURAL SOCIETIES
DEC
NEWSLETTER
DECEMBER 1993
Walk in Customer's Shoes Lottery Dollars 5 Important Dates and Deadlines ' Ideas from Regional Meetings New Fair Planning Video Fair & Other Event Ideas . .
Managing Risks
New Direct Dial R.I.T.E. Line
/dibcrra
AGRICULTURE
AGRICULTURAL AND COMMUNITY SERVICES, RURAL SERVICES DIVISION 7000-113 ST., EDMONTON, ALBERTA T6H 5T6 PHONE 427-2171 ISSN: 0228-1090
WALK IN CUSTOMER'S SHOES
The following was in the Eastern Alberta Community Connection Newsletter.
It is worth reflecting on this from an agricultural society- perspective. When you evaluate your fair and other activities, consider the customer's shoes.
^ Customer relations expert ^ Craig Oscarson says,
"It's a good idea to try to walk in someone else's shoes." He adds, "Smart people walk in the shoes of their customers, but wise people remove their own shoes first."
Implication ; You can't ^ put on someone else's % shoes until you've taken yours off.
To look at things from your customer's viewpoint, you really need to forget everything you know about the product or service from your inside perspective.
A good way to do this: ^ Conduct focus panels of your customers to get their thinking.
Also : Call three customers a day, just to see how they feel about your products or services .
TOTAL LOTTERY
DOLLARS TO AGRICULTURAL SOCIETIES
Alberta Lottery Funds are allotted to agricultural societies throughout Alberta in the following amounts:
$6,880,000 unconditional $2,700,000 fair and
operating
Edmonton Northlands and Calgary Exhibition and Stampede each receive $5,000,000.
Some agricultural societies, as well as other worthy organizations and projects, receive grants through the $2,650,000 Agricultural Initiatives Program.
Some agricultural societies have received lottery funds under the Community Facility Enhancement fund and Tourism Initiatives .
Agricultural societies are recognized through these grants as providing a valuable contribution to their community.
UPCOMING EVENTS
January 29, 1994 Region 2 Agricultural Societies Meeting Crossfield
February 22, 1994
Judge's Training Workshops,
Lamont
March 5, 1994
Fair Exhibitor's & Convenor's Workshop, Brooks
DEADLINES
All agricultural societies must have the following information into our office by January 15, 1994,
V List of 1994 Directors
(Minimum of 12)
V Report of 1993 Activities
V Financial Statements, reviewed by a CMA, CGA or CA
The following information should reach our office before March 1, 1994.
V Fair and operating grant applications
V Fair dates and descriptions (See Insert)
IDEAS
SHARED AT REGIONAL AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY MEETINGS
Classroom Prize Money
The Innisfree Agricultural Society approaches the teachers of each classroom offering a lump sum per class in exchange for 1 or 2 entries from every student.
This eliminates the problems of numerous small cheques as well as supporting the school.
Best result - all students can display something they have made .
The more volunteers - the better
No matter what activity or event, many hands make light work.
COMING TO A THEATRE NEAR YOU
Alberta Agriculture, Food and Rural Development staff, Brenda Tangen, Jocelyn McKinnon, Brad Lowrie and Louise Welsh are producing a video .
The stars of the production were the people of Edgerton who produce an excellent bench show.
The video and manual promise to be a "best seller" with ideas on how to show off all your exhibits.
Watch for details in 1994.
FAIR AIsTD OTHER EVEISTT I OE AS
Scavenger Hunt
Olds Agricultural Society was involved in a Scavenger Hunt throughout their county.
Participants were encouraged to visit businesses, the fair, museums, farms and farmer's markets .
At each place there was an item to be collected, as well as an opportunity to find out more about the local business.
This idea was a cooperative effort and initiative of the Olds Tourism Action Committee.
Many participants commented that, "They had never visited these places before."
The idea made people more aware of what their county had to offer throughout the summer for one day vacations.
Exhibitor Training
If you feel you need more knowledgeable exhibitor's, why not host a training session.
The Tofield Garden Club hosted such a workshop in July.
Successful exhibitors and judges share their knowledge with the participants.
The workshop was held about one month before the fair and not only helped to educate exhibitors but increased interest in the fair.
Observations From a Parade Participant
1) Start the parade on time.
Participants, both people and animals, must start getting ready long before the parade is scheduled to start and standing and waiting for the event to begin can be very tiring .
2) If possible, choose a parade route that isn't "up hill". Marching bands and small children would be very thankful for this small consideration .
3) Calmar had a good idea.
Their parade runs a very short distance down main street.
So, to add interest and to make the parade more entertaining, participants were instructed to stop and provide a small show, at specified points along the way .
Battle River Agricultural Society (Manning) hosted a Threshing Bee at the Heritage Day celebrations.
Summertime Snowshoeing . . . this activity has possibilities at many summer events, especially last summer! Something new to try in the relay games.
An article in the local paper explained "How to Watch a Rodeo"
4
Rae Hunter may have changed to a successful "basket case", but she continues to attend fairs .
Rae visited the Castor and Tofield fairs. Her comments will be helpful to any fair committees .
• Signs are always good
• Consider letting the public know "why" one article placed higher than another.
• Judges should encourage good work with positive comments.
• Convenors should wear a noticeable badge or ribbon.
• Returning the Exhibits Consider closing the doors for a few minutes to allow convenors to group craft articles by exhibitor name or number. Less chaos and potential for a mistake in taking articles.
Rae still enjoys learning new skills and is busy (as expected) sharing her crafts.
MANAGING RISKS A Handbook for the Recreation and Sport Professional
This 32 page handbook introduces what you need to know to manage risks in your recreation facility, events and programs .
Learn how to minimize liability for your organization, your employees and your volunteers.
Part 1: Explains, in clear language, the legal concepts of negligence, standard of
care and liability. Learn how the law expects you to behave whether as a director, recreation administrator, program leader, volunteer facility manager or coach.
Part 2 : Shows how to identify, evaluate and manage risks to ensure that your actions and those of your staff and volunteers meet the standard which the law requires .
Part 3: Discusses some practical tools and techniques which can be used by the recreation practitioner to manage risks in their facilities and programs.
Featuring . . .
• Clear explanations of the legal principles
• Illustration of these principles using actual law
examples
• Tips on improving your waivers
• Ideas for warnings and signs
• Suggestions for staff and volunteer training
Price: $7.95 plus shipping and . GST
For more information contact: Center for Sport and Law, phone: (403) 432-0283.
5
DIRECT DIAL LINE FOR RURAL ALBERTANS 1-800-565- RITE(7483)
The Alberta Government has
introduced a new telephone service, making it easier for Albertans, living in Rural communities, to call provincial government departments .
Until now, they had to ask for a Zenith number to be connected to the nearest government R.I.T.E. (Regional Government Information Enquiry) Center.
Approximately 10% of Albertans, living in 110 rural communities, have used the Zenith Service ( about 27,000 calls per month) . Now they can reach the nearest R.I.T.E. Center by direct dialling (1-800-565-7483) .
Faster than Zenith, the new
system doesn't require operator assistance, saving $40, 000/month (almost $500,000 a year) .
This improved, cost effective service is part of government's commitment to rural development in Alberta.
t
GRICULTURAL "^"^^a
SOCIETIES
NEWSLETTER
SPRING 1994
SPRING FAIR PLANNING THOUGHTS"
An excellent day was enjoyed by all those attending the agricultural societies meeting hosted by the Crossfield Agricultural Society in January. The following highlights of the day are ideas worth considering by any agricultural society.
VOLUNTEERS
Gordon Elhard started the day with a session entitled, "Volunteering; Is it worth
it?
or
"Are the eggs
worth the wear and tear on the chicken?"
Gordon's presentation was delivered in a very entertaining and humorous style. His message focused on the true meaning of life and the various stages we may go through in seeking that meaning .
Stages of seeking pleasure, wealth and power often leave people with an empty feeling. Gordon felt that the true meaning in life is found in serving people.
He listed some basic principles that he believes in:
♦ People are more important than things.
♦ The individual is more important than the group,
"each person is unique".
♦ Relationships are more important than skills
♦ Values are more important than knowledge.
♦ Listening is more important than talking.
♦ Feelings are more important than facts.
♦ A clear conscience is more important than a clear victory.
♦ The walk is more important than the talk.
The volunteer connection was very clear. Gordon feels that the true meaning of life is found in the service of others .
His excellent presentation was packed into an hour and gave everyone inspiration for the day.
/dibcrra
AGRICULTURE
AGRICULTURAL AND COMMUNITY SERVICES, RURAL SERVICES DIVISION 7000-113 ST., EDMONTON, ALBERTA T6H 5T6 PHONE 4 :7-2171 ISSN: 0228-1090
CHALLENGES TO THE FUTURE
Dr. Bob Church presented a challenge to all agricultural societies and their future role in rural communities.
Dr. Church closed his comments with some interesting statistics about where people would like to live.
He noted all the changes that have happened in all parts of the world. The rural community is being affected by these changes.
The access to entertainment, through satellite dishes and increased mobility will cause many agricultural societies to review the role of the summer fair.
Bob outlined a number of options that could be considered in developing fairs and in connection with the new rural community.
He suggested that agricultural societies could do a small survey of the non agricultural people living in your community.
1) What is your image of a farmer or rancher?
2 ) Where does food come from?
3) How do farmers/ranchers relate to the environment?
A quote worth thinking about:
"In a rural community you get along with your neighbours; in an urban community you pick your friends" .
This presentation raised lots of questions and created an excellent topic for our lunch discussions .
LUNCH
The local 4-H group catered to an excellent lunch. As in many agricultural societies, the connections between the volunteers on the agricultural societies and the volunteers involved in 4-H are strong.
Listen to the answers and consider what your agricultural society role should be in the future in supporting agriculture.
There are a lot o being made to agr farming practices agricultural soci re-think its role and awareness and some new programs traditional fair.
f challenges iculture and
The ety should in education respond with beyond the
After lunch, the group broke into two sections.
FACILITIES & OPERATIONS
One section discussed facility operations and costs. June Gair and Matt Collins from Alberta Community Development, presented some information on activities and facilities operated throughout the region.
The issues common to many of the facility operations were:
1) Cooperation with user groups, town and counties.
2) Communication in the local area about volunteer contributions, costs and grant allocations .
The groups felt that because of the pressures to provide more and more with less; there will be a need for improved community cooperation.
The optimistic closure of this session indicated that not only will agricultural societies continue in the future but that cormnunities will be stronger.
"PROGRAMS THAT ENCOURAGE VOLUNTEERS"
The other section discussed, "Programs that Encouraged Volunteers" .
Kathy Lowther, DHE, Airdrie introduced a panel of very capable volunteers who have had success in their fair operations .
Kathleen Windsor, Mountain View County Fair, Olds, described how their fair operates and how they recognize and work with all their volunteers. Her words of wisdom are good for all agricultural societies to consider. "Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm. Your enthusiasm is contagious; when you are excited, your excitement will infect someone else."
Kay Smith, President, Bearspaw Fair, outlined how their success has developed over the years. Some of their key points in supporting the volunteers include:
• Many hands make light work
• Enjoy the work and relax with suppers and lunches
• Encourage constructive criticism as a way to learn and develop.
The volunteers do an excellent Job because, "they love it!".
Kathy Lowther then shared some of the resource materials about leadership and volunteers that are available through Alberta Agriculture, Food and Rural Development. The message for the whole session focused on ideas for success as leaders and volunteers.
ALBERTA FOUNDATION FOR ANIMAL CARE
Dr. Ray Fenton addressed some of the critical issues facing agricultural producers and especially the beef industry.
Dr. Fenton 's experience as a veterinarian and conunittee member of the Alberta Foundation for Animal Care, was an insight into some of the activities that are happening throughout North America and the world.
He stressed that while there is more knowledge about agriculture, we need to increase programs supporting the understanding of the practices in the industry.
Agricultural societies interested in becoming more proactive in increasing agricultural awareness, were encouraged to support:
• the Agriculture in the Classroom Program
• Classroom Agriculture Program
• Alberta Foundation for Animal Care
Dr. Fenton 's presentation made it clear that there is a need for agricultural societies to review their role in the support of the agricultural industry.
The Agricultural Societies Regional Meeting, hosted by the Crossfield Agricultural Society, was an excellent, thought provoking day for all those attending.
Hopefully, these notes will stimulate discussions in your organization about volunteering, future roles, facility operations, planning volunteer recognition and tlie role agricultural societies should play in the animal welfare issues.
RECRUITING THE PERFECT COMMITTEE CHAIR
0 Can they delegate effectively?
o Do they empower others to do and be the best they can be?
o Do they store/record information in some organized system?
o Can they make decisions?
o Have they set plans and then stuck to them?
0 Do they have an enabling follow-up style?
o Do they keep everyone involved and informed?
0 Are they knowledgeable about the area of responsibility of the committee?
JUDGES FOR YOUR FAIR
If you still haven't hired your judges for this year's fair . . . get busy!
Hiring judges takes some long term planning. Review the fair prize list and last year's number of entries. How many judges do you need and what qualifications do they need to have?
If you have a small seed show, is it possible to find a judge who can judge in other categories when they are finished? Other alternatives might include getting a local elevator agent or top seed producer.
The fair coordinator should review the recommended judges from each committee. Can some money be saved by combining judges, car pooling or selecting judges with more areas of expertise.
REMEMBER! Your agricultural society is the employer. You should negotiate all fees, mileage rates and meals ahead of the event.
If you are a member of the Alberta Horticulture Association, you may be able to have the judges supplied and costs covered. Almost all other judges are now being paid directly by the agricultural society involved in the show. These costs should be part of your budget.
Where to look for judges
• Alberta Association of Agricultural Societies has a new judge's list available for $6 . 50/copy .
• Most convenors have kept a list of judges from past shows .
• Organizations such as Equestrian Federation, Rabbit Growers, Goat Societies, etc.
• Former 4-H members who were trained as judges.
• Former District Home Economists
• Local craft instructors, photographers, flower shop owners .
• Neighbouring agricultural societies. You could exchange judges and convenors or just get more ideas. Talking to others is always good learning.
Judges are an important part of your competition. Getting the best job for your money is your goal. As in all of your activities - planning is the key to success.
REMEMBER!
All fair books should be sent to our office at least 6 weeks prior to your fair.
lyiAlSriTOBA FAIRS COIsTDUCT EVALUTATIOIsT OF I> E RFORMAlSrc: E
The following results were taken from an article by Morris Deveson in the Western Canada Fairs magazine. They did an evaluation of 60 Manitoba summer fairs in 1993. The results may be of interest to all the Alberta fair planners.
WHAT ARE FAIRS DOING BEST?
• Supporting the cattle industry through shows, including special breed shows.
• Providing a good family and community-based activity, allowing for involvement of all age groups.
• Providing good homecraft, leisure arts and family living exhibit halls, allowing exhibitors to display their talent .
• Good horse shows .
• Providing an activity that allows for rural-urban cooperation.
• Providing good all-round family entertainment.
• Developing an awareness of agriculture and its importance in society.
• Supporting/promoting 4-H and youth.
• Good food and meals (Mentioned often) .
WHERE COULD FAIRS IMPROVE? [Listed in order of items identified]
• Improve "educational content" .
• Directional signs/handouts on grounds and buildings to help fair visitors.
• Directional signs to fairgrounds - on highways and in towns.
• Improve the educational content of livestock shows.
• Increased/improved public awareness/education re: agriculture and farming and its importance.
• Improvement in exhibitor^ breed and animal identification in barns and show ring.
AGRICULTURE IN
A Program For
The Winter of Our Discontent"?
No way!! Not by a long shot. For Ag in the Classroom and the Agricultural Ambassador Program, it has been an extremely eventful and successful season - leading to anything but discontent!
By far the biggest highlight of the winter months was the 1994 Agricultural Ambassador Fair, held February 24th and 25th at the Camrose Regional Exhibition.
Combine 1,300 school kids, some 1,400 artistic creations, a flock of sheep, a gaggle of geese, an auctioneer, a ferrier and two full days jam- packed with agricultural fun and learning and what do you get? One real knock-out, humdinger of an agricultural fair, that's for sure!
The aim of the Agricultural Ambassador School Fair is to provide students province-wide with the opportunity to explore and showcase ideas and projects relating to agriculture.
This year, the student and teacher participation in this event was overwhelming - participation levels across the board were double those of past years !
THE CLASSROOM
All Seasons!
By: Clare Stott
In conjunction with this year's Fair, a Teachers' Conference, sponsored in part by Alberta Agricultural Societies, was held. This too was a great success!
Informative key-note addresses and presentations, along with a series of 12 different round table sharing sessions provided the participating teachers with the opportunity to network with and gather informational resources from a variety of agricultural industry representatives!
Thank you agricultural societies, for making this teachers' professional development opportunity possible!
And now that our Winter of Content is over and Spring has sprung, we've got the summer to look forward to ... and, of course, the 1994 Summer Agricultural Education Institute in Fairview!
This Institute is a full- credit course offered to all practising teachers and aspiring education graduate students in Alberta.
The course, made possible through a partnership of the United Farmers of Alberta, the University of Lethbridge, Fairview College, the Peace River regional community and Alberta Agriculture, Food and
Rural Development, will be a week (July 10 -17) chalk-full of fun and learning for teachers interested in knowing all there is to know ( . . and then some) about agriculture in Alberta and how they can incorporate all this into their own classroom.
The 30 successful applicants will all receive full- scholarship to attend.
In its past runs, the Institute has received nothing but rave reviews and is sure to please again!
If you know of any teachers who may be interested in attending the Institute, be sure to pass the word! (Deadline for application April 31, 1994) .
For more information on the Institute, or for general enquiries about the Program! Contact: (403) 427-2171
Agriculture in the Classroom
Thank you for your continued interest and support!
THERE'S A NEW NUMBER!!
If you need to talk to us from anywhere in Alberta just give us a call on the new government access number.
Dial, 310-0000 and ask fpr 427-2171, then ask for Andy, Louise or Anne your agricultural societies team.
National Library of Canada Blbiioth^que nationale du Canada
3 3286 50494 1192
1994 International Year of the Family Annee Internationale de la fami|le
STRONG FAMILIES, STRONG FARMS
Business strength is perhaps easier to measure by looking at the bottomline of a balance sheet. However, measuring family strength is more difficult. But strong families can be seen in certain characteristics. Those characteristics are ones that give you a healthy balance between business and family, because your family is strong.
Appreciation is one quality often seen in a strong family. This doesn't mean that everyone is nice all of the time. It's more a case of recognizing the good, whether with a hug, a gift, a celebration or a compliment.
You'll probably groan at communication as the next item on the list. Strong families talk and listen to each other. Sadly time isn't often given to these important activities.
One researcher found husbands and wives talk with each other an average of only 27 minutes per week. Other studies found mothers average less than a hour per day in active communication with their children. Fathers averaged less than 10 minutes.
Sharing responsibility, or being relatively democratic in planning and decision making is another trait of strong families. This fits right into the UN's motto for International Year of the Family: Building the smallest democracy at the heart of society .
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