The Equine program included competitive classes for much of the day. They are in six age categories, as well as Green Rider for new horse riders. The classes include showmanship, grooming, bareback and English riding. A special part of the midday Rally program was a musical ride by three equine clubs, each performing choreographed team riding to music.
“The clubs had obviously put hours of practice into these presentations,” Meggison said.
The multi-purpose program involved members bringing their projects from Club Achievement to display in the curling rink for the public to see. They give ideas to other members or leaders about what to do in the future. There were workshop sessions in the morning on various topics like bowling, making tie dye socks and canvas painting. The afternoon had a presentation from the new Westman Poultry Club, which is based in Brandon but includes members from Boissevain. They held a mock showmanship class.
At noon, all clubs in all disciplines participated in the annual parade, which goes through the streets in the immediate neighbourhood of the Fairgrounds.
The Noon Show had a special guest speaker, 4-H alumnus Elaine Froese. She spoke on living the 4-H’s (head, heart, hands and health). She said one of the things that excites her about 4-H is the people you meet. She moved on to the pledge and how that impacts one’s life.
“There is a lot of tough stuff out there,” Froese said, “and I think 4-H really gives you a good grounding.”
She said there is no such thing as a dumb question and you should not be afraid to keep learning. That is part of keeping your “head to clearer thinking.” She spoke of doing things for others, using their “hands”, as well as “heart” by accepting people, and taking care of your mental “health”. She added 4-H leaders are unpaid not because they are worthless, but because they are priceless, and thanked them for their hard work.
Abigail-Lyn Wilkinson from Deloraine, a member of the Goodlands 4-H Variety Club, was the gold watch winner this year. She has been a member of 4-H for 10 years and has been involved in many projects from crafts to finance. She feels 4-H taught her that kindness is the greatest life skill, and being a good listener and friend is very important to her. Wilkinson plans to continue in 4-H as a leader and is looking to become a teacher. She was presented with the gold watch by Richard Pugh of Paterson Grain, who sponsors the award.
Rally is planned by a committee made of different participating clubs, but Meggison said it also is indebted to volunteers and committee members from outside 4-H.
by PAUL RAYNER, Recorder staff