Oxford 4-H Informer – January / February 2017 Page 1

OXFORD AWARDS

NIGHT

Recipients and presenters of various awards gathered for the photo at the

completion of 2016 Oxford 4-H Awards Presentation held on Friday November

18th at the Oxford Center Community Hall. (more inside – page 5)

Front Row: Tina Nauta, Jessie Carberry, Laura Witmer, Janet Bruce, Devin Gras, Brayden Gras, Annet Laan and Gay Lea Delegate Steve Veldman. Back Row: Russell Dickout, Bernice Dickout, Sophie Pike, John Harrigan, Kathryn McTaggart, Elizabeth Bruce, Julie DeBruyn, Emily Harris, Brayden Haderlein, Quinn Stockmann, Scotiabank Carolyn Wilson and Steve Aiken

Oxford 4-H Association January / February 2017

Oxford 4-H Informer

IMPORTANT DATES:

January 18 – Early Registration deadline for CAM

January 25 – Oxford County 4-H

Annual General Meeting & Volunteer Re-engagement Training, OMAFRA

January 31 – Provincial

Leadership Camp registration deadline

February 8 – Oxford 4-H

Association Meeting, OMAFRA, Woodstock

February 11 – Region 6

Volunteer Symposium, London

February 28 – Merial Box Back

Program deadline

March 4 & 5 – Pancake House,at

Jakeman’s

March 5 – Informer submissions

deadline

March 11 & 12 - Pancake

House,at Jakeman’s

March 15 - Pancake House,at

Jakeman’s

January / February Informer

January 15, 2017

Association Information 2 Oxford 2016 Awards Night 5

AGM 2016 Minutes 7 Pancake House 2017 14

Brooksdale Canoe & Kayak Report 9 Region 6 News & Info 3

Canadian 4-H Classic Report 15 Thamesford A Sporting Chance Report 8

Ghana 4-H Canada Report 6 Volunteer/YL Training Opportunites 3, 4

Member Opportunities 17 Woodstock Fair Entries 13

Mt Elgin Photography Report 12 W I Scholarships 17

In this Issue:

Oxford 4-H Informer – January / February 2017 Page 2

CONTACT LINDA:

TO BUY – (please note these are old logo) TO BORROW –

Oxford 4-H Mugs ($5) Go for the Gold buzzers

4-H T-shirts/XL ($10) PA System (deposit required)

SPEED STACK KIT: The kit will be available for use by 4-H clubs (for the Speed Stack project) with

a security deposit of $100 (cheque). To book the kit out, contact Andrew McTaggart (Region 6 Coordinator, Volunteer Services). Delivery will be made person to person.

CONFLICT RESOLUTION PROCEDURE: All conflicts or related concerns within 4-H in Oxford

must be submitted in writing and signed to the Association Chairperson. All matters will be addressed confidentially by the Association Executive. Contact Association Chairperson.

BATTERY BLITZ: An opportunity to safely dispose of unwanted used batteries year round at

Knoops Farm Service, Embro. Proceeds will go directly to the Oxford 4-H Association!

The 2017 Resource Guide is out! Did you receive your copy yet?

Check your mailbox! See what 4-H has to offer you!

OXFORD 4-H CONTACTS Dwight Hargreaves, (519) 456-6520 Chairperson / Director

Mel Bergsma, (519) 655-3781 Vice-Chairperson /Past Chairperson / Director

Katherine Grieve, (519) 475-6163 Secretary / Director

Julie Schwartzentruber, (519) 462-2266 Treasurer/Director switz@execulink.com

Mardine Pelders, (519) 475-6849 Assistant Treasurer / Director / Association Rep

Shonna Ward, (519) 462-2341 Assistant Secretary / Director wardway@cwisp.ca

Association Directors: Cate McCorquodale (519) 475-4075

(always room for more!)

Classic Coordinator: Anne Matheson (519) 614-7487

Livestock Coordinator: Cate McCorquodale (519) 475-4075

Andrew McTaggart Coordinator, Volunteer Services, Regions 5 & 6 1-877-410-6748 ext. 487 region6@4-hontario.ca

The Oxford 4-H Informer is published in January, March, May, July, September, and November. Submissions are due by the 8

th of the month of

issue.

Contact Information: Linda R Humphrey, Communications Coordinator 36 John Street West Bright ON N0J 1B0 Phone: (519) 454-8201 Email: oxford4-h@xplornet.com

4-H Ontario website: http://www.4-hontario.ca

Oxford webpage: http://www.4-hontario.ca/4h-in-my-

area/oxford

4-H Ontario Vision

To share the value of a clear Head, loyal Heart, serving Hands and better Health with youth, volunteers and communities across Ontario.

Oxford 4-H Association Meetings OMAFRA, Woodstock – 7:30 pm

January 11 July 12 February 8 August 9 March 8 September 13 April 12 October 11 May 12 November 8

June 14 December 13

Everyone welcome!

VOLUNTEER TRAINING 4-H ONTARIO POLICY

All registered volunteers must attend a training workshop offered locally, regionally or provincially a minimum of every 24 months or more frequently according to local Association policy. Please keep your training current – before leading a club.

KEEP YOUR TRAINING CURRENT!

OPPORTUNITIES IN 2017

OXFORD COUNTY 4-H AGM January 25, 2017

OMAFRA, Woodstock

REGION 6 VOLUNTEER SYMPOSIUM February 11

Best Western Stone Ridge Inn, London

2017 MEMBERSHIP FEE $85 (NO extra fee for Oxford members)

$5 Border Jumper Fee

Fee due with FIRST project or opportunity!

*Participant Agreement found on 4-H Ontario website,

under “Forms” (Form 6.8) – must be updated and presented to the volunteer in charge for each project, club or opportunity. Find here: http://www.4-hontario.ca/file.aspx?id=36c637d4-7c10-4ff6-8ffc-812f7da5bcaf

OXFORD COUNTY 4-H ASSOCIATION VOLUNTEER RE-ENGAGEMENT TRAINING AND ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Wednesday, January 25, 2017 – 7 pm

OMAFRA, Woodstock

All interested parties invited Nomination & Election of Directors Refreshments Provided

Come out and help plan for 2017!

Oxford 4-H Informer – January / February 2017 Page 3

REGION 6 NEWS:

Membership Fee Increase - At a recent Ontario 4-H Council Board of Directors meeting, the Board examined the membership fee and considered the value of the 4-H program and how it compares with similar programming in Ontario before setting the fee for 2017. Recognizing that the fee for the past three years has remained at $75, the Ontario 4-H Council Board of Directors felt that an increase was necessary. Therefore, the fee in 2017 will be $85/participant.

Re-engagement News! - As we head into the new year, we would like to remind all 4-H Volunteers that they are asked to re-engage every two years, before they are able to begin their 4-H season. Re-engagement includes a Police Record Name Check and attendance at a 4-H Ontario Learning Opportunity. Once more, in 2017 volunteers will have their choice of re-engagement workshops offered throughout the year including any local association’s Annual General Meeting (if this includes a staff-led re-engagement work-shop), a Regional Volunteer Symposium, the 4-H Ontario Conference and Annual General Meeting (CAM), a local Association requested training on a topic of interest to volunteers in that Association as determined by the local 4-H Association Board, or a web-based training module (new sessions available for 2016. New this year: Going forward after your next police check, 4-H Ontario will be requiring police checks every three years! Also, as of January, all re-engaging police checks will be eligible to be completed online!

All applications and forms for the 2017 year will be submitted online. Let us know how we can help you be prepared!

Provincial Leadership Camp registrations are open and will be accepted until January 31, 2017. Please encourage a senior member you know to register!

CAM Registration is open for 2017’s 4-H Ontario Volunteer Conference & Annual Meeting! Register online on the 4-H Ontario website for this fun learning opportunity, March 24-26, 2017 at the Nottawasaga Inn Resort in Alliston.

Save the date! This year’s Region 6 Volunteer Symposium will be held Sat., Feb. 11, 2017 at Best Western

Stoneridge Inn! Come on out for a day of fun and learning! Register with Andy McTaggart at region5@4-hontario.ca. Please include your phone number and any allergies. Please register no later than February 4

th.

4-H Association Best Practice Sharing - As a new 4-H year begins, club leaders are reminded that it is a good idea to be in communication with your 4-H Association regarding any field trips outside of the Association or overnight that your club is considering taking. This is important for Risk Management purposes as well as to keep your local 4-H Association abreast of club activities they may wish to promote or have reports received.

YOUTH LEADER AND YOUTH DIRECTOR TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES The Youth Leader Program has been a constant in the 4-H program for decades. There are two (2) streams to the program:

1. Club Youth Leaders: must be at least 15 years old and no more than 21 years old prior to January 1st of the current calendar

year. Any Club Youth Leaders who did not do so in 2016 must participate in a Youth Leader webinar. Training focuses on presentations and leadership styles.

2. Youth Directors: must be at least 18 years old and no more than 21 years old prior to January 1st of the current calendar year.

New Youth Directors must attend New Volunteer Orientation for initial training (either in person or webinar). For re-engagement , Youth Directors must attend and participate in location Association AGM, Volunteer Symposium or Association requested training. Training focuses on governance, policy and Board basics.

Youth Leaders are required to participate in the Youth Leader Orientation Webinar if they did not do so in 2016 and Youth Directors are required to attend a New Volunteer Orientation if they are first-time Youth Directors or re-engage at a learning opportunity through their local Association AGM, a Volunteer Symposium, or Association Requested Training if they are due for bi-annual re-engagement.

Re-engagement for both streams will be required every two years. 4-H members are strongly encouraged to complete their training prior to the beginning their project for maximum benefit and learning. Note: Training MUST BE completed by end of the project in order to be granted credit for the project.

YOUTH LEADER WEBINARS: (7 PM)

February 7 & 21 June 6 March 7 & 21 July 4 April 4 & 18 August 1 May 2 September 5

How easy is that?

Director Training Opportunities

Oxford 4-H Informer – January / February 2017 Page 4

IT'S FULL STEAM AHEAD TO CAM 2017!

Registration is now open for the 2017 Volunteer Conference and Annual Meeting (CAM) taking place from March 24-26 at the Nottawasaga Inn Resort in Alliston, Ontario.

CAM is an annual opportunity to learn, enhance skills and make valuable connections with 4-H volunteers from across the province. You will meet other 4-H volunteers who share your values and passion for youth engagement through workshops, breakout sessions, social activities, and more. CAM will leave you feeling refreshed and invigorated with exciting new ideas to take back to your clubs, fellow 4-H volunteers and your local 4-H Association.

The CAM committee has been busy planning interactive and experiential learning programs that tie into this year's theme of “Full STEAM Ahead.” Get ready for fun and enjoyable activities that incorporate elements of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) into the conference program.

For more information and full conference package, visit http://www.4-hontario.ca/volunteers/volunteer-opportunities/cam.aspx

Early Registration deadline January 18!

Club Volunteers & Former Participants - We need your help! It’s time for members to register for this year’s camps and conferences. We know that word of mouth is found to be the most effective way of having 4-H members attend provincial programming, where they can enhance their leadership skills while having an experience of a lifetime!

Please share the benefits of provincial programs with a member today and encourage them to bring friends along

to their program of choice in 2017!

When ordering ribbons and awards please remember to use the NEW 4-H logo.

Attention Parents! Your help is appreciated at club meetings and events. However … Have you ever considered completing the screening and

training required to become a 4-H volunteer? Policy requires that there be TWO screened and trained volunteers for each

club or event but many times meetings are in jeopardy of being cancelled because a volunteer has had an emergency pop up. As

much as it is kind of a parent to step up to fill a position, it is not allowed unless that person is screened and trained. Please get

screened and trained for your safety, for your child’s safety and make it easier on your club volunteers. Show them you

appreciate their contributions to your child’s club experiences.

OR … if you are unable to volunteer … do you know someone (friend or neighbor) who might be a good fit? Encourage them to

get involved. Our members could only benefit from another adult’s interest.

If you are not interested in working with the members at the club level, consider becoming a director. Many hands make light

work in the presentation of member and volunteer events and opportunities.

To start the process just go to the 4-H Ontario website, click on “Volunteers” then on the right, select “Steps to becoming a

volunteer”.

We promise we won’t ask you to become more involved than you wish.

NEW VOLUNTEER ORIENTATION WEBINARS: (7 pm – 9 pm)

February 8 & 14 July 11 March 14 August 8 & 9 April 11 & 12 September 12 May 9 October 10 & 11

June 13 & 14 November 11

Oxford 4-H Informer – January / February 2017 Page 5

OXFORD 4-H ASSOCIATION AWARDS PRESENTATION EVENING Oxford Centre Community Hall was the venue chosen for this year’s Oxford 4-H Association 2016 Awards presentation held on November 18

th. 4-H families and guests enjoyed a Pot Luck Feast featuring 4-H project recipes that

have become family favourites.

The event was hosted by the Bonds 4-H Dairy Calf Club and the Oxford Centre 4-H Life skills club. The 4-H Pledge and 4-H Grace were repeated in unison. Oxford 4-H Association chairperson Dwight Hargreaves chaired the event and introduced all the special guests.

George Klosler from Farm Credit Canada (FCC) congratulated Oxford 4- H members on their successful year and accepted the 603 pounds of food collected for the FCC – Drive Away Hungry Campaign.

Scotiabank representatives Steve Aiken and Carolyn Wilson presented Oxford 4-H Association with a cheque of $2000.00 from their bank program which recognizes employees who volunteer their time in their community.

Guest speaker was Elizabeth Bruce who participated in the 4-H Canada Going Global Exchange program for three weeks. Ten delegates from across Canada travelled to Ghana, Africa where members experienced a new country, expanded their global perspective, learnt about sustainable agriculture practices and explored issues related to food security. The Ghanaian 4-H program is held in the schools as clubs and is taught by the teachers. Their 4-H program is young compared to Canada.

The Oxford 4-H Volunteer Tribute Award was presented to Russell Dickout, –formally a Mt. Elgin dairy farmer now retired to Woodstock. Russell was a 4-H member himself with the Ingersoll Kiwanis 4-H Dairy Calf Club, then became a Leader in the 1950s after finishing his involvement with the Oxford County Junior Farmers association. He was a 4-H Leader for 15 years and retired in 1972 before his eldest child was old enough to join – “didn’t want to be guilty of conflict of interest”.

Russell did a considerable amount of judging both of 4-H and open shows around western Ontario. “The young people who had graduated from the 4-H program excelled in the show ring” commented Russell. You can still find Russell sitting in the stands at the fairs and achievement program watching the members and their dairy heifer calves.

Each year Russell and his wife Bernice sponsor and present the Norman Dickout Memorial Judging Award in the memory of their son who enjoyed the judging aspect of the 4-H program.

Russell Dickout is also past president of the Oxford Holstein Association, was involved in the Mount Elgin community and in his church community.

The 4-H Ontario Award of Achievement sponsored by Gay Lea Foods Co-operative Limited is awarded to members who have completed 24 projects and five years as a member. Gay Lea Foods delegate Steve Veldman presented the framed limited edition print by artist Judith Bokdam to Janet Bruce, Jessie Carberry, Brayden Gras, Devin Gras, Annet Laan and Laura Witmer.

Volunteer Recognitions were presented by Dwight Hargreaves and Region 6 Coordinator -Volunteer Support Andy McTaggart. 1

st year – Christine Baigent, Joan Fraser, Katelyn Fraser, Janie Gras, Keely Grieve, Carol Hanlon, Tim Harris,

Michelle Knaap, Thomas Knoops, Cate McCorquodale and Margaret Smith, 5 Year pins – June Nussey, Matt Walker and Jacqueline Wynen, 10 Year pins – Nicole Barnett, Wendi Jackson, Anne Matheson and T.J. Richardson, 15 Year pin – Barb Taylor, 20 Year pin – Laura Green and 25 year pin – Barb McIntosh and Dean Karn.

Oxford County Project Awards were presented by Andy McTaggart and Cate McCorquodale for completion of 36 projects – Elizabeth Bruce, Julie DeBruyn, Iain Grieve, John Harrigan and Kathryn McTaggart, of 56 projects – Hailee Verhoeven and Graduating members Elizabeth Bruce and Hailee Verhoeven.

Every member and volunteer will receive an Oxford County 4-H outdoor sign from the Thornton Bequest for 2016 at their club’s awards night where year bars and project signs will be presented. .

The Oxford Project of the Year Award was presented to the Hickson 4-H Club Milk Makes it Better project.

Norman Dickout Memorial Judging Awards presented by Russell and Bernice Dickout – Novice to Destiny Franken, Junior to Sophie Pike, Intermediate to Iain Grieve, Senior to Josh Karn and Overall to Josh Karn.

The Janet Wilson Outstanding 4-H member Awards were presented by husband Ross Wilson and their children Martha and Shawn. Recipients were Novice Female – Emily Harris, Novice Male – Brayden Haderlein, Junior Female – Amy Gras and Junior Male – Quinn Stockman, Intermediate Female – Tina Nauta and Intermediate Male – Devin Gras.

Steve McGregor from Your Neighbourhood Credit Union sponsored the Outstanding Overall Senior 4-H Member Award and recipient was Jessie Carberry.

Eric Howard from the Ontario Plowmen’s Association sponsored the Outstanding Agricultural 4-H member Award and recipient was Josh Karn.

- Laura Green

Oxford 4-H Informer – January / February 2017 Page 6

4-H CANADA GOING GLOBAL SERVICE LEARNING TRIP TO GHANA 2016 This past summer I had the privilege of being one of ten senior 4-H Canada members selected to travel to Ghana, West Africa where our group spent three weeks learning about the 4-H Ghana program and global food security.

After two eight hour flights, the Canadians finally landed in Accra, the capital of Ghana. This was followed by a long late night bus ride to Koforidua, in the Eastern region. Each 4-H Canada member was paired with a Ghanaian 4-H member. My 4-H twin was Theodora, who had recently graduated high school and lived in town

with her family. 4-H is a school club in Ghana, where the leaders are school teachers. The enterprise gardens program is a 4-H initiative, where each school has a garden cared for and maintained by 4-H members. Maize, Cocoa Yams, Peppers, Garden Eggs, Carrots and Tomatoes were all common food crops grown by the 4-H youth.

The 4-H pledge and motto in Ghana is different, however similar in values to what we are use to in Canada. Their motto is “Learn, Earn and Go Green”. Their pledge is “I promise to work towards becoming a youth with a clear Head, An Open Heart, Clever Hands And a Good Health So Help Me God”.

Our first week was spent living at a hostel with our 4-H twins, allowing us to get to acclimatize to the humid and hot Ghanaian weather and become better acquainted with our new 4-H friends. Although English

is the official language, many people also speak Twi. Our first week was filled with language lessons, learning traditional dances, trying local dishes and acclimatizing to the humidity. We toured the Ghanaian Cocoa Research Institute where we learned about cocoa production, visited the Canadian Embassy, went to a radio station run by Farm Radio International and took our first adventure to the local market where we bought fresh pineapples and mangos. We soon got used to seeing chickens and goats freely roaming the streets.

Our second week was spent living with our host families. Theodora’s family owns a shop in the heart of the market in Koforidua, where they sell goods like napkins, paper towels, soaps and take away containers. I spent several afternoons hanging out in the shop with my host mother & grandmother who were determined to teach me basic Twi. By the end of the week I was able to count to twenty and say a few simple sentences. We toured the 4-H Ghana head office and visited several local

schools that had 4-H programs. At each class visit we said both the Canadian and Ghanaian 4-H pledges and shared about our 4-H experience and what agriculture is like in Canada.

4-H members from Canada, Ghana and the United States participated in a food security symposium, where each nation presented current issues facing our food systems along with solutions to solve them. Food waste and a lack of agriculture education were common problems in each country.

We spent our final week all together travelling to several tourist sites including the Ashanti King’s old palace (he built a new one next door), the Cape Coast Slave Castle and a canopy walk over the rainforest in Kakum National Park. We had two farewell banquets where we celebrated the success and future of 4-H followed by lots of dancing.

I would like to say Medassi (Thank you in Twi) to all of the sponsors who donated funds towards this trip including the Oxford

4-H Association, Oxford County Junior Farmers, Hickson Lions Club, Tavistock Men’s Club, Oxford County Women’s Institute and the Princess Elizabeth Women’s Institute. Without their help this trip of a lifetime would not be possible.

- Elizabeth Bruce

Oxford 4-H Informer – January / February 2017 Page 7

OXFORD COUNTY 4-H ASSOCIATION ANNUAL MEETING Wednesday January 27, 2016 – 7pm

OMAFRA

Chairperson: Kim DeKlein Secretary—Shonna Ward

Agenda approved as presented M/S Carried

Minutes approved as printed in Oxford 4-H Informer M/S Carried

Finance report approved as presented by Geoff Innes M/S Carried

Mel Bergsma thanked Geoff Innes for his many years of being Treasurer for the Oxford County 4-H Association.

Association Representative printed report provided by Mardine Pelders.

Questionnaire survey prepared by Andy McTaggart and sent to 4-H families, volunteers in Oxford County with only 12 responses to date. Comments/concerns/questions—after discussion, M/S to extend survey to Feb 10, 2016—Amended—to extend survey to Feb 7, 2016. Carried. Andy to prepare a written summary of the responses to the Board Directors for discussion at the Feb 10, 2016 Oxford County 4-H Association meeting. Communication Coordinator to email everyone again with the end date of the survey of Feb 7, 2016.

Andy gave a report on 4-H Ontario Program and Resources with a printed handout available. Youth leaders training on webinars and must do to complete a youth leader project.

Constitution changes were approved as printed in Nov/Dec Oxford 4-H Informer M/S Carried

Nomination Report—the following let their name stand for a two year term—Mardine Pelders, Melvin Bergsma, Dwight Hargreaves.

Julie Schwartzentruber let her name stand as a Director—new

Chris Hart & Jayme Emerson retired as Directors

Note—Katherine Grieve and Shonna Ward are in middle of term, and in constitution--Maximum seven directors to the association shall be elected at the Annual Meeting for a term of two years. Fourteen directors total representing both agricultural and life skills groups. The Board of Directors shall consist of a minimum of 6 directors plus a chairperson to a maximum of 14 directors.

Election of Directors

M/S Carried that Shonna Ward be recording Secretary for the elections

M/S Carried that Andy McTaggart and Evelyn Chambers be scrutineers

M/S Carried that voting shall be show of hands

Nominated for 2 year term—Mardine Pelders, Mel Bergsma, Dwight Hargreaves, Julie Schwartzentruber, Cate McCorquodale (permission was given to nominate as unable to attend), Thomas Knoops. Thomas declined his nomination for a two year term.

Nominated for 1 year term—Katherine Grieve, Shonna Ward, Thomas Knoops, Jack Danen, Geoff Innes, Dean Karn. Thomas, Jack, Geoff and Dean all declined their nomination for a one year term.

Voting recorded that the Directors for 2016 would be for 2 year term—Mardine Pelders, Mel Bergsma, Dwight Hargreaves, Julie Schwartzentruber, Cate McCorquodale and for 1 year term—Katherine Grieve and Shonna Ward.

Recommendations/suggestions -one rep from each club be present at Oxford County 4-H Association monthly meetings -start the Oxford County 4-H Association monthly meetings earlier -committees formed with one Director and other volunteers

-email agenda to 4-H volunteers in advance of the Oxford County 4-H Association monthly meetings -email minutes of meetings -one agricultural and one life skill club organize events such as GFTG, Awards Night, etc

Other - clarification wanted on chaperoning and dairy shows/intercounty judging competition—Andy & Evelyn to get information to parents/volunteers/members by email and Informer as soon as available. - Livestock meeting date to be arranged and communicated to volunteers.

Adjourned at 9:15pm

Volunteer training followed the Annual Meeting with Kim DeKlein and Andy McTaggart leading sessions on judging—critical thinking.

Attending Annual meeting—Mardine Pelders, Nancy Hargreaves, Dwight Hargreaves, Wendi Jackson, Julie McIntosh, Keely Grieve, Vera Van

Den Nieuwelaar, Marian Sterk, Val Jones, Katherine Grieve, Carol Hanlon, Janice Thomson, Thomas Knoops, Shonna Ward, Linda Humphrey,

Laura Green, Jack Danen, Marilyn Lichti, Melvin Bergsma, Amanda Hart, Anne Matheson, Nicole Barnett, Dean Karn, Chris Hart, Jayme

Emerson, Jim Grieve, Janet Fleming, John DeBruyn, Geoff Innes, Kim DeKlein, Evelyn Chambers, Andy McTaggart.

Oxford 4-H Informer – January / February 2017 Page 8

THAMESFORD - “A SPORTING CHANCE” The fall project for our Thamesford 4-H club was “A Sporting Chance”. Our first meeting was on October 1

st at our leader

Wendi Jackson’s home and was an outdoor games meeting. The rain kept us inside for a while playing “Four on the couch” but when it stopped we went outside and learned to play Home-made games of Ladder golf and Washer toss. We then played a game of “Flags” until the meeting was over.

For our next meeting on October 22nd

, the group went to the Skyzone Trampoline Park in Kitchener. We started off by playing a game of Dodge ball on the trampolines. After that the group got to split up and go to the trampoline foam pits, the basketball nets, the regular trampolines, or play some more dodge ball. Everyone enjoyed our time there.

On November 12th we had a meeting with more indoor

and outdoor games. For the first portion of the meeting we played “Minute to Win It.” To do this we split up into two groups and competed against the other team in 60 second challenges involving household objects, like “Pencil bowling” and “Cookie face”. We then went outside and learned to play Kubb. Kubb is a Swedish game that involves knocking over your opposing teams wooden Kubbs and then ultimately the King. After playing a game of Kubb, we played “Flags” until the meeting was finished.

Our most recent meeting was on November 25

th at

the Thamesford arena where we learned to play Ringette. We learned to handle the ring, shoot the ring, and also the rules of the game. The group then split into groups and played a big game of ringette for the rest of the meeting.

Our club volunteered at the Thamesford Lions Carol Sing on December 4th, held at the

Thamesford Community Centre. We provided and served snacks and refreshments for everyone attending. We also held our Achievement day for “A Sporting Chance” on December 6

th at the Victoria Park Community Centre in Ingersoll. We received a facility

tour and introduction to circuit training, Wallyball (volleyball played in squash courts) and participated in a yoga class.

- Sam Maaskant

Oxford 4-H Informer – January / February 2017 Page 9

BROOKSDALE CANOE & KAYAK Have you ever wanted to feel the beauty of the wild and the adventures and fun it brings? Well Brooksdale 4-H had the opportunity of completing the Canoe and Kayak club during the recent summer. It began with dryland training, and learning the knowledge of different equipment parts, and about items needed when boating, and then led to our training in Thamesford Pool. After diving in head first our club began to learn different techniques to save our lives in case we tipped over in the water or if other such accidents were to happen. As our adventures continued we had the opportunity to test our skills canoeing or kayaking at the Thames River Flats in St. Marys with a friend of the club. Before our “Grand” achievement program, we decided to learn more about how canoes and canoe products were made by going to Timber’s Outfitters, located near Seaforth. The owner showed us how he makes canoes, personal oars, seats and other accessories.

In the end, with all the new skills we had gained from the different meetings, our club ventured out for a day on the Grand River on October 8, 2016. Our adventure began early in Paris, Ontario. With kayaks rented from Grand River Rafting, and a few canoes for support, accompanied by GRR staff, we put the boats on the river and were off, headed on our long trip to Brant Conservation Area. There were a few challenges along the way, and some members had the chance to get in the river, either by choice or not! It was a very “Grand” day, complete with sunshine and friends, and leaving us with memories and the thrill of the experience.

- Brittanie Fraser

Oxford 4-H Informer – January / February 2017 Page 10

Safety Posters from Brooksdale’s Canoe and Kayak Club .. and more pictures …

Chandler Smith

Oxford 4-H Informer – January / February 2017 Page 11

Oxford County 4-H Association would like to thank.... Due to Scotiabank Fund Matching Funds program and their employees Steve Aiken and Carolyn Wilson working along side 4-H volunteers and members during the Brunch for the Embro Theatre production February 2016, Oxford 4-H received a donation of $2000. Thanks Scotiabank, Steve and Carolyn!

Also thank you to Ayr Mutuals for the lovely evening and generous donation in support of programs and people of Oxford County 4-H!

OXFORD’S PRESENCE AT MADISON (World Dairy Expo 4-H National Dairy Cattle Judging Competition)

The Ontario Team included Josh Karn (Oxford) & Laura DeKlein(Middlesex – Oxford BJ)

Josh Karn placed 15 out of 120 contestants.

Ontario team finished 4 out of 30.

Oxford 4-H Informer – January / February 2017 Page 12

PHOTOGRAPHY PROJECT– MOUNT ELGIN 4-H CLUB The first club that was completed in the 2017 year for the Mount Elgin 4-H group was ‘Photography’ led by the

experienced photographer Alayne, as well as Lynn, Megan, and Carolyn. With a smaller group than normal, with just 7 members we used this to our advantage to all get a chance at trying the many photography techniques that were taught to us and to also be more careful with the equipment that we learned did not come at a low price.

We were taught about proper care of the camera as well as common mistakes and all of the different parts of the camera including pieces that proved to be very difficult to remember, such as the difference between the aperture and shutter. In addition to this we learned the history of cameras and photography as well as the difference between types of cameras such as the ‘point-and-shoot’ and the ‘digital single lens reflex’.

Throughout the entire project we experimented with settings such as the shutter speed on our cameras as well as whether or not to use a flash depending on what the focus of our image was. We created landscape photography by using Lego scenes, and experimented with different backgrounds including mirrors as well as different colours or fabrics. Another technique used was during night photography when we experimented with moving steel wool while also using sparklers. A few members proved to be very talented photographers as they were successfully able to catch a water droplet falling through the air. Members also experimented with capturing intriguing images of flowers using the ‘rule of thirds’ as well as fake water on the leaves.

Throughout the entire project each member took images with the camera they brought using each different technique learned about at every meeting. At the conclusion of the project our best three images each were printed and posted to see at the Station Arts Centre in Tillsonburg during the Christmas Portrait Day they put on, which was also used as our achievement for the photography project. With the help of Alayne, we were also able to enhance our images before being printed using Photoshop. This acted as an excellent souvenir for members and allowed outside citizens to view our work at the old train station. I would like to thank Alayne for contributing her time to share her knowledge of photography as well as the Tillsonburg Photography Club for allowing us to join them at the Station Arts Centre.

- Kimberly Bickell

(I apologize for not including pictures for Mt Elgin’s project report but the pictures were on a black background which would not

have copied well. – Linda)

OXFORD WELCOMES CLOVERBUDS! The Cloverbud Program is a hands-on, activity-based program for youth aged 6–8 (as of December 31st, 2016), covering a variety of topics, including agriculture, food, crafts, lifeskills, the environment and science. Cloverbuds get a taste for the topics in 4-H projects and understanding of 4-H values. The program provides many opportunities to “Learn To Do By Doing”.

There are three (3) distinct years of Cloverbud Program materials. Each year of programming contains 24 units, with each unit covering a different topic. Youth participating in Cloverbuds for three years could cover 72 topics!

Cloverbud participants pay a membership fee to take part in the program — similar to traditional 4-H membership fees. To successfully complete a year as a Cloverbud, youth must finish a minimum of just 4 units, a total of 8 hours. However, participants can take as many units as are offered by Cloverbud leaders — up to 24 units!

Please help publicize this exciting new program and have interested parents contact the Cloverbud leaders below for more information and meeting times.

Karen Karn (519-421-7220) OR Val Jones (519-462-1954)

The next meeting will be February 4, 2017. Topic: Draft Horses

Activity: Sleigh/Wagon Ride Please have interested parents contact

the leaders for more information by February 2nd.

Cloverbuds is an exciting introduction to 4-H for youth ages 6 – 8.

Thanks to our new volunteers for taking this on.

Oxford 4-H Informer – January / February 2017 Page 13

Time to get thinking about…

WOODSTOCK FAIR 4-H MEMBER ENTRIES 2017 (August 24-27)

Woodstock Fair Committee: Shonna Ward (462-2341)—Community 4-H Club

Woodstock Fair Theme: “Farm Fun” Rules and Regulations: as usual

Class #1 - 4-H Exhibits (Not previously exhibited, limit of one per project per club or opportunity) These 2 or 3 sided display board exhibits are to depict club activities, projects or opportunities (eg Discovery Days, Youth Adventure Camp, Future Leaders in Action, Provincial Leadership Camp) 1

st $20.00 2

nd $15.00 3

rd $12.00 all remaining entries $10.00

Classes #2 through to #10 prize money: 1st

$12.00 2nd

$10.00 3rd

$5.00 All remaining entries $3.00

Class #2 - Decorate a cake, using the fair theme-Farm Fun or Celebrating Canada 150 years, judged on decoration only, may use Styrofoam or cardboard cake base, using any materials

Class #3 - Handmade Craft, any sewn, knitted, crocheted item, handmade by exhibitor, not previously shown at fair.

Class #4 - Animal Safety Poster, using a half sheet of Bristol board, showing tips for being safe when around animals

Class #5 - Four (4) Photos promoting Fair theme, each picture size 4” x 6”, mounted on black background (one sheet). Pictures must be taken by exhibitor. No words or captions.

Class #6 - Three (3) Handmade Greeting Cards, for any occasion, envelopes to be included. Not to be computer generated.

Class #7 - 4-H Collage, being the size of a full sheet of Bristol board, collage depicting the 4 H’s (Head, Heart, Hands, Health)

Class #8 - Recycled/re-purposed craft, item made from recycled/re-purposed materials, handmade by exhibitor, not previously shown at fair.

Class #9 - Dairy Dish, showcasing an original recipe created by you using at least one dairy product, with ingredient list and preparation method, a photo of the finished dish, and comments from at least two people who ate it.

Class #10 - Carrot Cookies, three cookies on a disposable plate covered with clear wrap.

500 ml carrots, peeled and sliced 175 ml butter, softened 250 ml white sugar 1 large egg 5 ml vanilla 500 ml all-purpose flout 10 ml baking powder 2 ml salt

1. Preheat oven to 190°C 2. Cook carrots in saucepan with water until tender; drain

and mash. It should measure about 250 ml when you are done. Cool.

3. Cream butter and sugar. Add egg and vanilla, beat together until fluffy. Stir in cooled mashed carrots. Stir together flour, baking powder and salt; blend into butter mixture.

4. Drop by spoonful on ungreased cookie sheet. Bake for about 8-12 minutes. It doesn’t need to cook until browned—just until firm. Cool.

Oxford County 4-H Association Special Class - Celebrating Canada 150 years

“What Canada means to me…….”—using any medium, depict what Canada means to you, examples—pictures with or without captions, poetry, story, handmade item

Prizes 1st $15.00, 2

nd $12.00, 3

rd $10.00, 4

th $8.00, 5

th $5.00, all remaining entries $3.00

Better get your thinking caps on!

Oxford 4-H Informer – January / February 2017 Page 14

Oxford 4-H Informer – January / February 2017 Page 15

2016 CANADIAN 4-H CLASSIC

Congratulations to the members of the 2016 Oxford County Classic Team. It was an excellent showing by all members. The team placed 8th (out of 50 counties) for Premier Club and 2nd for the Group of 3!

Thank you to all the Sponsors for your generous contribution towards the Classic Team. Also, thank you to the member's families for their support and encouragement along the way!

Special thanks goes out to Jack Danen for being the male chaperone!

Pat yourselves on the back team, you made Oxford Proud!!

NN

New County Display

Trent Jones, 2nd Intermediate Showmanship

Callum Karn – Embryos from Eastside Holsteins PEI

- Anne Matheson, Karen Karn & others

The 2016 Oxford County Classic Team Front Row: Lars Zeldenrijk & Callum Karn Back Row: Ashley Smith, Trent Jones, Taylor Wagler, Keeton Jones, Alison Buckrell, Kimmely Zeldenrijk, Emily Smith

Oxford 4-H Informer – January / February 2017 Page 16

And a few last words … 4-H in Oxford in 2017 is underway!

4-H Ontario website – 4-H profile! Logon, go to “My profile” at the top of the page, then check out the

right side menu.

Got pictures? Send ‘em in! Including actions shots which are much more interesting.

Volunteers are reminded to renew their Police Checks as soon as the forms are received from 4-H Ontario. Clubs

cannot be registered if screening or rescreening is not complete and no one will receive credit.

Remember …Project resources are now available online. Locally submitted projects are listed but must be requested

from the province. If you have a problem accessing projects online please call me.

Some projects available from the Storage area. Before you print more check with me first. Let’s get them used up.

If you need any information about anything in this Informer – Just ask! My contact info is below!

While things are much better at my house, please continue to check up that your clubs get registered and that

your questions get answered. The best way to contact me is still email (oxford4-h@xplornet.com) and then we

both have a written record. Your support and the support of the Board is valued beyond what words can say.

Thank you.

The next issue of the Oxford 4-H Informer will be in March. Please submit articles and pictures by

March 5th. But earlier is better! If you’d like to read about it or publicize it, send in your write up about your 4-H activities

or experiences to be included in your newsletter. Remember, please direct any questions, comments or requests about this issue

of the Informer to me. Club reports and pictures are especially welcome.

So how are you displaying those awesome 4-H signs you received with your awards in November? Take

pictures and show us how you are spreading the 4-H message.

.................as ever,

And remember ... TO BUY – TO BORROW –

Oxford 4-H Mugs ($5) Go for the Gold buzzers

4-H T-shirts/XL ($10) PA System (deposit required)

SPEED STACK KIT: The kit will be available for use by 4-H clubs (for the

Speed Stack project) with a security deposit of $100 (cheque). To book the kit out, contact Andrew McTaggart (Region 6 Coordinator, Volunteer Services). Delivery will be made person to person.

CONFLICT RESOLUTION PROCEDURE: All conflicts or related concerns

within 4-H in Oxford must be submitted in writing and signed to the Association Chairperson. All matters will be addressed confidentially by the Association Executive. Contact Association Chairperson – contact information on page 2.

BATTERY BLITZ: An opportunity to safely dispose of unwanted used batteries

year round at Knoops Farm Service, Embro. Proceeds will go directly to the Oxford 4-H Association!

4-H LEGO PROJECT? Kits are available. Contact arrange pick up from: Lego Engineering - Alayne Brisson (519) 877-0762 / alayne_rose@hotmail.com Lego: Solar, Wind and Water - Wendi Jackson (519) 283-6028 / tjackson@execulink.com

A $500 deposit (cheque) is required that would be returned when all kits

were returned with full parts, otherwise replacement pieces will be

purchased from funds and balance returned

,Linda 519-454-8201 oxford4-h@xplornet.com

Where 4-H happens in Oxford......

PS: Remember the pictures are in colour and the links are live! In the pdf version of the

Informer posted to the Oxford webpage on the 4-H Ontario website and the Oxford County 4-H

FB page AND in the pdfs emailed to all on the Newsletter email list.

Oxford 4-H Informer – January / February 2017 Page 17

WOMEN’S INSTITUTE SCHOLARSHIPS – HEADS UP! The scholarship Committee of Oxford District Women’s Institute will be awarding two scholarships, each worth $750, to worthy students planning to commence post-secondary education in September 2017. One will require 4-H participation and one will require participation in community organizations, sports activities or charitable activities as an employee or volunteer.

Other criteria for Eligibility:

Applicant must write a short essay (500 words)

Topic:. WHAT SUPPORT HAVE YOU RECEIVED FROM YOUR COMMUNITY AND HOW DO YOU ENVISION GIVING BACK

Applicant must live in Oxford County or have taken at least 80% of 4-H projects in Oxford

Applicants can apply for one or both scholarships but can only win one

Application deadline: March 31, 2017

More information and applications are available from: Linda Hammond Phone: 519-842-5661 433151 Zenda Line, RR #1 Email: ivalinhammond@gmail.com Mt Elgin, ON

Applications will also be available from:

the guidance department at local high schools (late February)

the Oxford 4-H Communications Coordinator.

4-H ONTARIO OPPORTUNITIES Fundraise with the Merial BoxBack Program Deadline: February 28, 2017

The Merial BoxBack program is an opportunity for clubs to raise funds. Members collect box labels from IVOMEC, animal lice control, and EPRINEX Pour-On, parasite control, and send them to Merial. For every label returned to Merial, clubs receive $10. For more information check out http://ivomec-boxback.com/en/boxback

Provincial 4-H Leadership Camp March 11 - 16, 2017 Ontario Pioneer Camp, Port Sydney, ON Current 4-H Members ages 15–21

Provincial 4-H Leadership Camp is the flagship program for 4-H Ontario. Successful for over 50 years, this program will help you enhance your leadership, communication, goal-setting and team work skills, through hands-on activities. Try your hand at building a quinzee snow hut, lead your team across a raging river, or re-enact the day as part of the fleet log. Both as an individual and in teams, you will plan, run and evaluate parts of this six-day, five-night program – from social recreation to evening programs – all while having an experience of a lifetime. Application Deadline: January 31, 2017 Registration fee: $323.18 *includes HST

More information and to register - http://www.4-hontario.ca/youth/opportunities/camps/provincial-leadership.aspx

4-H CANADA OPPORTUNITIES http://www.4-h-canada.ca/programs-and-events

Global 4-H Network Summit Applications Are Open

The 2017 Global 4-H Network Summit, July 11-14, is the opportunity for 4-H youth, volunteers and professionals from 70 countries around the world, representing seven million youth worldwide, to gather in Canada's national capital city of Ottawa at an exciting time when celebrations are underway for Canada's 150th birthday. 4-H Canada is proud to host this important event, as we come together to share experiences, learn from each other and celebrate the successes of the 4-H global movement through positive youth development. Together, we are empowering youth and growing global citizens. For more information - http://www.4-hontario.ca/media/4h-news/article/global-summit.aspx

4-H Canada Citizenship Congress

May 2-7, 2017, Ottawa, Ontario (45th year) The 4-H Canada Citizenship Congress will deepen your understanding of governance and public policy, nurture your communication skills and expand your horizons as you discover Canada through the nation’s capital. Workshops will culminate with the annual debate, where you and your fellow members will construct insightful arguments and practise your skills of persuasion and public speaking. Ultimately you’ll learn more about Canada, its government and yourself. The theme for the 2016 4-H Canada Citizenship Congress is “Canada: Redefining Rural.” The program will take place at the Terry Fox Canadian Youth Centre in Ottawa. Process: Provinces select participants. Names are due to 4-H Canada by February 5, 2017. Each province is allocated seven spots. The cost of the program is $300/member. Age 16-21 as of program start.

4-H Canada currently has many opportunities with looming deadlines in January. Find out more about Club to Club Exchanges, the Careers on the Grow Program, the National Volunteer Leader of the Year Awards, and the Science Fair program at http://4-h-canada.ca/

Oxford 4-H member who are

eligible for this scholarship will

receive a letter with details and

application form.

OXFORD COUNTY 4-H INFORMER Publication Mail Agreement #40657053

Return to: 36 John Street West BRIGHT ON N0J 1B0

Thanks to Oxford Agropro for printing this – and every - newsletter for us!

And this is the biggest January Informer yet!

http://www.4-hontario.ca

Check it out!

OXFORD COUNTY 4-H ASSOCIATION VOLUNTEER RE-ENGAGEMENT TRAINING

AND ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Wednesday, January 25, 2017 – 7 pm

OMAFRA, Woodstock

All interested parties invited Nomination & Election of Directors Planning for 2017 & beyond

Refreshments Provided