By Dori Modney (@Dori_Modney on Twitter)

Centennial celebration for Southern Alberta 4-H draws all ages

Jan 8, 2017 | 12:51 AM

LETHBRIDGE – Famed rodeo announcer and author Dave Poulsen was the guest speaker Saturday night as the southern region of 4H Alberta kicked off the organization’s 100th birthday bash with a banquet and trade show at Exhibition Park.

Poulson shared guest speaking duties with Her Honour, the Honourable Lois E. Mithcell, Lieutenant Governor of Alberta.

As a worldwide organization, 4-H has about seven million members and there are 56 clubs in the Southern Region of 4-H Alberta, comprising about 1,000 members.

Several dozen 4H clubs were showcased at the trade show, which was free to the public during the afternoon, ahead of the banquet. The highlight of the event was the unveiling of a time capsule in the shape of a grain elevator.

It was noted that one of the 4-H members who attended the event, Marie Logan, had been with the organization for 50 of its 100 years. Also, Kayley Dueck, a longtime former member remains involved.

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“I think it’s shown people what agriculture means to society, and I think it’s something that kids growing up in 4H, and parents involved in 4H have really been able to see, through all of that, and just the way it affects us and the economy.”

Celebration committee chair Andy Pittman explained 4-H teaches leadership skills to young people, centered on the four H’s of 4-H, which stand for head, heart, hands and health.

“Through the leadership skills we teach them about communication, about community service, about giving back — community service is really about giving back,” he said. “About empowering them to make decisions within their club, and helping others as well.”

The purpose of 4-H is to give youth the chance to work on projects and create meaningful experiences which build confidence and a sense of achievement.

Projects range from livestock to woodworking, interior decorating to public speaking to health and fitness. But, agriculture is still a big part of it.

by Dori Modney (@Dori_Modney on Twitter)

Centennial celebration for Southern Alberta 4-H draws all ages

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