ROSE Garden - The Federated Women`s Institutes of Ontario

SPRING/SUMMER 2013
ROSE Garden
FWIO Celebrates the Lee Opening
The Home & Country ROSE Garden
is published three times a year by the
Federated Women’s Institutes
of Ontario.
Editor
Andrea Morrison
[email protected]
Proof Reader
Ruth Kennedy
Graphics
Big Footprints Inc., Cambridge
www.bigfootprints.ca
Copyright © FWIO 2013
Copyrighted material, including graphics,
may be reproduced as long as it remains
in context, its source is recognized and it
is not used for monetary gain. To reprint
copyrighted material under any
circumstances, contact the Editor.
ISSN – 1715-216X
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40036824
Return undeliverable Canadian
addresses to:
Federated Women’s Institutes
of Ontario
7382 Wellington Road 30
RR 5, Guelph ON N1H 6J2
Tel: 519-836-3078
Fax: 519-836-9456
Email: [email protected]
www.fwio.on.ca
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The FWIO switchboard is open
Monday – Thursday 9am – 4pm.
If you call and get our answering
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someone else. Please leave a
message and we will return your call
as soon as possible.
The office is open Wednesday and
Thursday 9am – 4pm.
The office is closed on Fridays.
Contact Information
FWIO Provincial Office (see left)
ROSE Program Manager
Andrea Morrison Ph: 519-836-3078
[email protected]
Executive Officer to FWIC
Joy Trimble Ph: 519-942-2093
[email protected]
Membership Coordinator
Ellen Martin Ph: 613-433-3463
[email protected]
Public Relations Coordinator
Donna Henderson Ph: 519-418-7480
[email protected]
Tweedsmuir Coordinator
Irene Robillard Ph: 613-432-6987
[email protected]
Additional contact information is
available with the Coordinator &
Officer reports on page 12.
NEWSLETTER
DEADLINE DATES
Please send stories and photos for
consideration in the Home & Country
ROSE Garden to the FWIO Provincial
Office or [email protected] no
later than the content deadline dates
below.
Fall 2013
- August 1, 2013
Winter 2014
- December 1, 2013
2
FWIO Celebrates
the Lee Opening
On Sunday, April 21, 2013, FWIO
celebrated the grand reopening of
the Erland Lee (Museum) Home in
Stoney Creek with nearly 200 hundred
attending, including descendants of
the Lee family. Many thanks go out to
all who worked tirelessly and also to
MP Dean Allison, Hamilton Mayor Bob
Bratina, and Councillor Brenda Johnson
for their kind words and continued
support. Evelyn Peck, FWIO President,
had the honour of cutting the ribbon.
The ‘Lee’ will be open Thursdays,
Saturdays, and Sundays from 12pm4pm. Pictured (L-R): MP Dean Allison,
FWIO Past President Elsie Stephenson,
City Councillor Brenda Johnson and
FWIO President Evelyn Peck take part
in the ribbon cutting ceremony. Photo
by Helen Young.
nside:
I
3. From The County
4. Back 2 Basics
5. Erland Lee Award
6. Branch Profile
8-11. Down the Garden Path
12. Advocacy Update
13. Meet the Members
15. All for a Good Cause
By FWIO President, Evelyn Peck
As I write this, the days are lengthening and the snow
banks receding. Many of us, particularly the gardeners and
farmers, are turning our thoughts to a new season with
hopes of favourable weather and bountiful crops. As we
begin a new year for our Branches and Districts, my hope is
that inspiring programs have been planned.
I was given a newspaper article about the increasing
relevance and popularity of Women’s Institutes in the
United Kingdom. Young women in England are putting
their names on waiting lists to join Women’s Institute.
They want to have the opportunity to learn cooking and
sewing skills from the older Members. The young moms
are living in austerity and want to get together to pool
ideas, share resources and learn new skills. Other young
women are sharing their enthusiasm over the Internet to
increase awareness.
In our communities, some women have not had the chance
to learn many of the traditional skills of homemaking. With
our Back 2 Basics theme, there are so many modern ways
to incorporate old basic skills. Many of our Members have
a wealth of knowledge and practical skills and they would
be great candidates to mentor the younger women. Is it
possible that if we offered more relevant programs on
topics that are needed by our neighbours, we would also
have a waiting list of women wanting to join us in WI?
Our Provincial Board has been embracing Back 2 Basics
learning. Last year, Members used an evening while at
August Board to learn to knit ruffled scarves. Then in
November we got very creative assembling fascinators
worn in our skit after the Annual Meeting. In the evening
after this April’s Board sessions we had an interesting time
learning to crochet with wire and beads to make a necklace.
If only someone knew how to teach me to tat left-handed.
I’ve always wanted to learn that skill!
Many of us who grew up in rural communities had the
opportunity to belong to 4-H Homemaking Clubs and
learn cooking, sewing and other life skills. Most clubs
were sponsored by Women’s Institute Branches and led
by WI Members. 4-H Ontario is celebrating its centennial
in 2015. In preparation, a 4-H Ontario Alumni database is
being developed to help reconnect former members and
leaders and share 4-H stories and the impact that 4-H had
on their lives. If you are interested, you may register online
at www.4-hontario.ca/alumni or contact 4-H Ontario’s
Coordinator, Alumni Services at [email protected] or
1-877-410-6748 x 466.
It was a pleasure to take part in the official reopening of
the Erland Lee (Museum) Home. It was a great celebration
with about 200 in attendance. The Erland Lee Community
Committee proudly showed off all the renovations and
restorations. Thank you to everyone who volunteered,
made donations or assisted in so many different ways.
Soon the Lee will really sparkle as the Board accepted one
of the quotes for painting the house.
Board heard updates of plans for a Provincial Conference
in Ridgetown on July 11-13, 2014.
The publishing date of our Home & Country ROSE Garden
was moved back so that the very latest Board Highlights
could be included in the Branch packages. Please check
these for up-to-date news. These Highlights are also
available on the FWIO website.
It was suggested at our Annual Meeting that we try to make
2013 the renaissance year of our organization. If we work
together with enthusiasm and positive determination we
can accomplish many great things. Let’s try!
I am a proud lifelong resident
of beautiful Prince Edward
County. In this area of
Eastern Ontario, Prince
Edward is most often
simply referred to as “The
County”, which explains
my choice of title for this
column.
Board
Meeting
August 13 – 15, 2013
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Russell Village WI
In the 75th Anniversary year of Russell Village WI (Eastern Area), the Branch
decided to replicate some of the “ole-time” meetings which they discovered in
their vintage Minute Books. They undertook a meeting to re-introduce the Art
of Tea Biscuit Making and nothing goes better with tea biscuits than tea so they
gave a talk on it as well! Several varieties of tea biscuits were made: fresh fruit, savoury garlic, cheese and chives, and a
traditional plain, all to be served with fresh butter and homemade jellies. Each was made by a different method: food
processor drop biscuits, traditional rolled out and cut, and rolled out and cut but from a packaged mix. As the tea was
steeping and biscuits were baking, the ladies discussed the history of tea and the various categories they break down to:
Black, Green, Oolong, White and Herbal. The aroma of the fresh tea and cooking biscuits even brought the fellows in to
check out the meeting. It was a wonderfully simple and fun evening!
Pictured (L-R): Jean Williams and Ina Henry led the Ole Fashioned Art of Tea Biscuit Making and Tea Convenorship and stand with their
goods, which included cranberry drop tea biscuits; garlic, cheese and chive rolled tea biscuits; plain rolled tea biscuits; and chai tea,
decaffeinated orange pekoe tea, and apple-cinnamon herbal tea.
North Grey WI
Good
Approximately
100 people
idea!a ROSE Session
attended
presented by North Grey
WI (Grey-Bruce Area) on
October 27, 2012 at the
Christian Reformed Church
Fellowship Hall in Owen
Sound. Wendy Tomlinson, who conducts her business,
"The Dressing Room" in Owen Sound, has developed
several subjects relating to fashion history and joined
the Branch on this day. After morning coffee and cookies,
Wendy presented her topic, "Underneath it All: A History
of Undergarments". She spoke on and displayed several
antique garments, followed by Members presenting a
comical skit relating to undergarments. Vocalist, Jackie
Ralph, provided entertainment throughout the program
with several musical selections.
Following a delicious lunch of turkey a la king served
on a tea biscuit, green salad and cheesecake for
dessert, the afternoon speaker Linda DeBoer, decorator,
demonstrated and instructed how to make fall and
Christmas decorations for your home. Several door prizes
were awarded during the program. An interesting and
informative day was enjoyed by all!
4
Good
idea!
Zion Line WI
The Members of Zion Line WI (Eastern
Area) recently organized a ROSE
Session where women could learn
how to tile. The workshop was held on
a Saturday morning at Home Depot, with
approximately 10 participants in attendance.
The workshop leader, a Home Depot employee,
offered many useful tips including how to save on costs
but still obtain good quality. Gift certificates were handed
out to everyone for the flooring department, and a draw
took place for a book on home renovations and repairs.
It was an interesting, humorous and worthwhile morning!
Algoma Centre District
Algoma Center District WI (North Central Area) met at
the Prince Township Hall on November 22, 2012 to learn
how to make a frilly scarf. Sarah Fabbro demonstrated
the technique for approximately ten Members who each
brought a ball of Sashay yarn and knitting needles. She
helped anyone who required assistance. It was a fun,
educational morning for all, followed by a delicious lunch!
Also in Algoma Centre District, Prince WI has been busy
holding several Back 2 Basics ROSE Sessions. Among the
topics: Beginners Quilting – the Basics, Making Pie Crust,
Knitting (European and North American Methods), Pickling
Beets, and Making Jam Using Jello, Rhubarb and Crushed
Pineapple. Way to go Prince WI!
Volunteer Training at the Lee
Two training sessions were held for volunteers at the
Erland Lee (Museum) Home in preparation for the grand
reopening celebration and the regular hours when the
Museum will be open to the public (Thursday, Saturday
& Sunday from noon to 4pm). Twenty-nine volunteers
attended and learned the history of the Lee family, their
importance in the development of Saltfleet Township
and the historical significance of the Erland Lee (Museum)
Home as the 1897 birthplace of the Women's Institute.
Harrietsville WI Honours
Robert (Bob) Sadler
If you would like to volunteer at the Lee please contact us
at: 905-662-2691 or email: [email protected]. It
is gratifying to show visitors from around the world this
National Historic Site and experience their interest in the
Museum.
Working Together for the Lee
A humorous but moving skit during the fellowship part
of the FWIO Annual General Meeting emphasized what
can be accomplished through teamwork, selflessness and
affirmation. The skit demonstrated how the collective
use of individual talents, such as baking, needlework and
public relations can produce great results.
Today the Lee has been resurrected and opened its doors
once again on April 21, 2013. This feat of affirmation was
made possible through the generosity and conviction of
groups and individuals working together.
Harrietsville WI (London Area) presented Robert
(Bob) Sadler with the 2012 Erland Lee Award of
Appreciation at Harrietsville-Mossley United
Church on February 24, 2013 honouring the
volunteer work he has done for the Institute as well
as the community and several other organizations.
Twenty representatives brought their wishes and
shared highlights of time spent with Robert.
The church choir presented a medley of songs and
soloist Marlene Demaray sang "May You Always".
Marilyn Howey read Robert's biography while a
pictorial slideshow of his life played in the background.
Following Robert's words of appreciation for the
afternoon, the large crowd enjoyed a social time
while sharing cake.
This is a living example of the old fable where a legendary
roc is destroyed by fire but a powerful phoenix rises from
its ashes.
The Erland Lee Award of Appreciation is presented
by the Federated Women’s Institutes of Canada
to a man who most exemplifies those qualities
of Erland Lee which led to the founding of the
Women’s Institute, an organization which spread
across Canada and grew to include millions of
women worldwide.
By Hania White,
Mono Road WI/Brampton West WI
Pictured (L-R): Jean Houghton, Robert Sadler and Ilene
Chesterman.
5
BRANCH PROFILE:
Bar River WI
Bar River WI (Algoma North Shore District, North
Central Area) was founded in 1931 and, more than 80
years later, the Branch still plays an active role in its
community. Today the Branch consists of 10 Members
from Laird Township and the Bar River area. Each
Member has unique talents that blend well together,
and their willingness to share ideas and talents is
what helps to make this Branch’s time together so
much fun.
Members keep busy throughout the year with
catering and craft activities. They help with their local
hall and have attended cross border picnics with
Michigan groups. They also try to visit local facilities
of interest.
For over 40 years, Bar River WI has held an annual
Children’s Christmas Party. In the past, when ladies
met in their homes, the party would be held there.
In the early 1980’s it became such a large event that
it had to be moved to a hall. One of the WI Members
plays Santa Claus, and the event now includes gifts
and candy – even a gift exchange for the mothers!
Carols are sung, lunch is enjoyed, and there is a draw
for a barter basket. It is a wonderful opportunity to
let young mothers in the community know about the
Women’s Institute.
Bar River WI continues to be a very active group and
helps as much as possible in their area. Whether it
be donations, birthdays, anniversaries, or funeral
lunches, they always try to lend a hand. When asked
what the key to their success as a Branch is, they point
to their efforts to make their meetings both fun and
educational. The Branch consists of Members of all
ages, so they always try to fit in programs that each
Member would enjoy.
Pictured: Santa Claus
makes a special stop
at Bar River WI’s
Children’s Christmas
Party!
Queen Elizabeth II Diamond
Jubilee Medals Awarded
Inman Road WI
Pat Logan was presented
with the Queen Elizabeth II
Diamond Jubilee Medal on
January 12, 2013. Pat was
nominated for this award
by Haldimand-Norfolk MPP,
Toby Barrett, in recognition of her long-time volunteer
efforts with Dunnville’s Airport Museum, Agricultural
Society, and Heritage Society, as well as the Haldimand
Genealogical Society and the Inman Road Women’s
Institute. Pat has been a valued Member of the Inman Road
WI (Hamilton Area) for over 30 years and is a willing helper
at both the Branch and District levels. Congratulations Pat!
Pictured: Haldimand-Norfolk MPP, Toby Barrett, presents Pat
Logan with the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal.
Russell Village WI
On December 12, 2012, Ina Henry was presented with the
Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal on Parliament
Hill. Ina gives freely from her heart, for the betterment of
her community and especially her community’s children.
What better gift can any person give than the betterment
of their young people? She is a volunteer marvel and has
the ways and the means to make anything happen. Her
faith, her attitude, her endless strength and her charming
wit encouraged her Branch, Russell Village WI (Eastern
Area), to nominate her for this honour.
Ina has been a WI Member
since the age of 18 (as a
Junior Member) and has
been a fully participating
Member for over 37 years.
She is a wife and mother of
six, yet she has found time
to share her strengths with
others who wish to learn
from her.
Pictured: Ina Henry with Pierre
Lemieux, MP for Prescott,
Glengarry, Russell. Photo by
Pamela Pearson, The Russell
Villager.
6
The Headquarters Fund currently sits at $661,952
Your support will ensure that WI continues
long into the future.
“Nothing is impossible;
the word itself says
‘I'm possible’!”
~ Audrey Hepburn
To make a donation, contact the FWIO Provincial Office at 519-836-3078
Museum Performance Explores Lives of WI Members
“I was born…” was presented by Peggy Coffey on January 27, 2013 at the
Stratford Perth Museum. The one-woman show used masks and storytelling
to explore the lives of the women of rural Ontario. The readings were based
on the stories of Members of the Women’s Institute, which were collected and
published by FWIO in a book called From This Place. The masks were fashioned
by Heather Ruthig, a prop and mask maker for the Stratford Festival.
This event was sold out and was greatly enjoyed by all. Eleanor Williams, Southern
Regional Board Director, was in attendance and extended congratulations on
behalf of FWIO. The museum scheduled additional dates for this interesting
presentation in the month of May.
Pictured (L-R): Eleanor Williams, Heather
Ruthig and Peggy Coffey.
South Lobo WI Hold Tweedsmuir Open House
South Lobo WI (London Area) recently held a Tweedsmuir Day
Open House to display their Tweedsmuir History Books and
to honour Eleanor Babinsky (holding roses), who has been
a Member since 1956 and Tweedsmuir Curator from 1981 to
2012. Along with the dozen roses, Eleanor was presented with
a "Certificate of Appreciation" for exceptional recording of
Community and Women's Institute History. Present residents
and former residents of the community attended the Open
House.
Pictured (L-R): Christa Clement, Vivian Ireland, Muriel Scott, Marg Harris,
Eleanor Babinsky, Glenna Ladell, Marjorie Sharpe, Gerda Veel, Dorothy
Fletcher, Rie Van Steeg, Colleen Tuckwood and Margaret Cormier.
Branches from Northumberland East District Participate in History Weekend
This past February, York Road, Community and Codrington WI’s (Trent Valley Area) participated in Brighton’s History
Weekend. It was all about sharing information and history from the Brighton area. WI Branches were given tables
and space to show their history and what WI is all about. They used pictures
and displays and the 3 Branches put together a tea for the visitors on both
afternoons. They made sandwiches, cookies and squares and took turns
serving tea after visitors had a look at the displays or listened to the speakers.
A representative was at each display and explained what each Branch does
individually. Approximately 2,000 people attended the event.
Pictured: Shirley Young stands in front of York Road WI’s display.
7
Ramsay WI
Ramsay WI of Lanark North District (Eastern Area) has found an innovative
way to raise funds while raising the profile of the WI: PEDAL POWERED
SMOOTHIES! For two years, Members have taken part in Bicycle Month
(June) in Almonte, serving up delicious smoothies. They are made from
strawberries or raspberries, yogurt and milk (also soy, if requested). The
novelty part of the procedure is that the blender is fixed on the back of a
bicycle and is powered by the person buying the smoothie pedaling for a
minute or two.
Pictured: Former Mayor, Al Lunney pedals for
the cause!
The plan was noticed on the internet by one of the Branch’s Members. Her husband followed the instructions, hooking
the base of the blender to the bicycle sprocket. They created a bike painted in blue and gold, which has appeared at
events such as the Mayor's Breakfast, parades and flea markets, to name a few.
Members in smart blue aprons are putting out a fresh image for Women's Institutes, while enjoying meeting neighbours
and tourists.
On a different topic, the Branch has made great progress in the recording of their local history. Their 5 volumes of
Tweedsmuir Histories were digitized in 2012 and their DVD titled Hamlet Histories: Bennies Corners, Blakeney, and Leckie’s
Corners is now available for $15 from Millstreet Books in Almonte or from Marilyn at [email protected].
Southline Brant WI
Victoria II WI
Southline Brant WI (Grey-Bruce Area) holds an annual
Christmas party, but rather than exchange secret pal
gifts, Members give a donation to a different charitable
organization each year. In 2012, donations were made
to Community Living Hanover and Community Living
Walkerton and District at this special ROSE Session. Kim
Munroe, Program Manager for Community Living’s Adult
Day Program in Hanover, spoke on the opportunities
and jobs created for people who could not otherwise
hold a job. Brodie Hart, Executive Director of Community
Living Walkerton and District, explained that government
funding is not available for individuals over the age of 18;
therefore, donations are
gratefully accepted for the
Adult Day Programs.
Members and guests of Victoria II WI (Kingston Area) met
at the Napanee Fire Department for a ROSE Session on
“Safety in the Home & Emergency Preparedness”. Public
Educator, Randy Cook, questioned participants on the
resources that should be kept in an emergency kit. He also
described hazards in the home and the different types
of smoke detectors. What some might not know is that
smoke detectors (and carbon monoxide detectors) should
be replaced every 10 years.
Pictured: Southline Brant WI
Member Joan Grubb (right) with
Brodie Hart, Executive Director
of Community Living Walkerton
and District.
8
Pictured: Victoria II WI Members and guests learned valuable tips on
how to stay safe and prepare for emergencies.
Vittoria WI
Mount Brydges WI
Vittoria WI’s annual Christmas potluck lunch was held at
the Town Hall on December 12, 2012 with 32 Members
in attendance. Sixteen invited guests from around the
community were treated to a turkey dinner with all the
trimmings. Guest entertainer was Susan Drayson who has
had a long connection with Vittoria. Susan led the group in a
Christmas sing-a-long, including the Twelve Days of Christmas
(pictured below). Everyone was feeling a little Christmas spirit
afterwards. Every year, Members of the Branch put together
gift bags to give to local shut-ins and to members or friends of
the community who are in local nursing homes. One Member
puts together a large gift basket for a local family in need and
gives it to them before Christmas.
The Members of Mount
Brydges WI (London
Area) held a ROSE Session
on Water Conservation.
Irene Peters gave a very
informative presentation
to
more
than
30
participants, instilling in
everyone that we must
all do our part and not
waste water. Middlesex Northwest District President, Marg
Harris, also attended this event and presented a Certificate
of Merit and 60 year pin to Emily Faw, as well as a Life
Membership pin and Certificate to Marian Clark.
Pictured:
Inta
Lizinski
in her
beautiful
native
costume.
The Branch’s January Meeting focused on Scams, Fraud
Prevention and Identity Theft, with a presentation given by
the O.P.P. It certainly opened a lot of eyes and was a good
reality check for everyone. The Branch highly recommends
this presentation to others!
Vittoria WI (Hamilton Area) will be celebrating its 75th
Anniversary in November 2013. A committee has been
formed to begin plans for this important event!
Lakelet WI
The Members of Lakelet
WI (Guelph Area) turned
a very special occasion
into a ROSE Session!
Guest speaker, Fran
Dawson, spoke on the
“Benefits of Exercise” as Lakelet WI celebrated its 60th
Anniversary on November 6, 2012. The celebration was
marked with a Victorian Tea at Fordwich Hall in Fordwich.
Guests were encouraged to wear hats and were served
tea biscuits, whipped cream and strawberry jam. Tea was
served in beautiful china cups. Laurine Wright, a 96 year
old Charter Member, was recognized with a special pin.
River Valley WI
River Valley WI’s
newest Member is
Inta Lizinski who is
a native of Latvia.
Dressed
in
her
colourful costume,
Inta described the
history and culture
of her native land.
She showed her
fellow Members of
River Valley WI (Trent
Valley Area) beautiful
hand embroidered
clothes, crafts and
amber
jewellery
that is found in
abundance in Latvia.
Inta also taught a
folk dance. Roll call
asked everyone to
state something you
know about Latvia. Among the facts learned from Inta was
that Latvia was the world’s first country to initiate socialized
medicine, known in Canada as Medicare. Latvians celebrate
St. John’s Day on Midsummer Night’s Eve where everyone
stays awake all night to sing, dance and eat their favourite
foods.
Pictured: Laurine Wright receiving her 60 year pin from Lakelet WI
Secretary, Esther Hallman.
9
Warwick WI
Following a soup and crackers luncheon,
Warwick Fire Chief Brad Goodhill spoke
to 28 WI Members and guests at a
ROSE Session about fire safety and the
plans for a new Community Centre in
Warwick Village. He showed two videos
- one on the importance of having a
carbon monoxide detector in your
home, and the second on how quickly
a fire spreads, leaving very little time
(maximum 3-4 minutes with smoke
alarms on each level of the home) for
occupants of a home to escape. Fire and
building codes now require a smoke
alarm on each level; otherwise, there is
a $270 fine.
Plans for a new Community Hall to replace the current hall which no longer meets building code requirements are well
under way, with fundraising efforts being planned. Approximately 1/4 of the needed funds have already been raised.
Pictured: Penny Bryce, Greg Goodhill and guest speaker, Fire Chief Brad Goodhill, help themselves to soup before the ROSE Session, hosted
by Warwick WI (Southwestern Area).
Motherwell WI
Motherwell WI (London
Area) held a ROSE
workshop in Motherwell
Avonbank Presbyterian
Church Hall. The topic was
Christmas centrepieces
constructed from a box.
Demonstrator for the
evening was Sarah Nairn.
Navan WI
On February 17, 2013 at St. Mary's Hall, Navan, Leonard,
and Cumberland WI Branches (Eastern Area) gathered to
celebrate the 116th Anniversary of Women’s Institute. It
was a delightful afternoon spent with friends from the 3
Branches.
Pictured: Pam O'Donoghue, Navan WI President, pours tea for
Verna Cotton and Juanita Vetter.
10
Pictured: Seated with their
finished centrepieces are Yvonne
Brown and Elaine Standeaven.
Baltimore WI Marks 100th Anniversary
The Baltimore Branch of the Women's Institute (Trent
Valley Area) held their 100th Anniversary celebration on
June 7, 2012 when Members and guests gathered at the
Baltimore Community Centre for an afternoon of friendship,
reminiscence and fun. Everyone enjoyed the music of the
Corktown Fiddlers as they played many familiar tunes.
Greetings were brought from municipal, provincial and
federal governments. District President, Alberta Johnston,
presented 100th Anniversary pins to the 11 Members of the
Branch. Marjorie Noble, the Branch's oldest Member, cut a
lovely anniversary cake
decorated in blue and
gold, which was enjoyed
with strawberries and
ice cream, bringing to a
close a lovely afternoon.
Pictured: President Lois
Crider and Marjorie Noble
cutting the anniversary
cake.
Solina WI Celebrates 110 Years
Solina WI (Central Area) was chartered on January 8, 1903
with Maggie Baker as the President. On January 9, 2013,
Members treated themselves to a catered roast beef
supper at Trinity United Church, Bowmanville. The ladies
invited their husbands, as they are often an integral part
of the projects they are involved in. They often refer to
them as "honourary" members. Donna Barkey prepared a
wonderful PowerPoint Presentation of the Branch’s history.
The people, the fun and the dedication to community and
country were enjoyed as they took a trip down memory
lane. There was also a display of memorabilia. For the
Branch’s 100th Anniversary, a book of portraits was
compiled containing nearly all Members from 1903 to
2003. Under each picture they documented the executive
positions they held throughout their time in Institute and
the awards they had received. This continues to be a work
in progress. Also, there were photocopies of interesting
excerpts from the Minute Books, candid shots of Members
at functions throughout the years, old programmes, and
more. Lois Yellowlees, Eileen Knox, Marjorie Cryderman
and Loraine Knox received certificates for 61 years and
Mary Millson and Alma Langmaid for 62 years in Solina
WI. Congratulations to each and every Member and best
wishes for many more years to come.
Pictured (back row): Dorothy Snowden, Bernice Watson, Joyce
Taylor, Donna Barkey, Rita Buder, Ann Roger, Peggy Darch,
Jean Taylor, Lois Yellowlees and Doris Flett. Middle row: Marg
Cryderman, Loraine Knox, Marion Broome, Margaret Ford, Pat
Best, Eileen Knox and Mary Millson. Front row: Karen Dair and
Jenny Bowman.
230 Years of Service in Brooksdale WI
You may have done
a “double take”
when you read the
title, but 4 Members of Brooksdale
WI (London Area)
share a combined
total of 230 years of
service with their Pictured: Margaret Green, Rosina Morris,
Branch. What an in- Helen Piett and Ruth Matheson
credible way of looking at the dedication of your membership. Margaret Green, Rosina Morris, Helen Piett and Ruth
Matheson have all been WI Members for over 50 years and
were recognized for this accomplishment at the Branch’s
90th Anniversary on January 26, 2013. To celebrate, a catered luncheon was held at the Brooksdale United Church.
Guest speaker was Debbie Bauer from Dungannon, while
the Tweedsmuir History Books were on display for community viewing until 8pm.
At your next meeting, try adding up the years
of service among Members in your Branch –
the numbers could be shocking!
11
AdvocacyUpdate
~ By Advocacy Coordinator,
Glenna Smith
Two Provincial Resolutions have been
passed and forwarded to the proper
Government Departments and
Boards. Both originated in the North
and Northwest. We were pleased to
help our WI sisters by supporting their concerns.
Resolution 1: Locally produced and processed
chickens. In Northwestern Ontario there is no processing
facility for poultry and no quota. This means no local
poultry is available. The current small-flock population
is insufficient to support a regional freestanding poultry
abattoir. The Provincial Government promotes “buy
local, eat local,” but this can’t be done with the chicken
industry as it is now.
Resolved that FWIO request the Government of Ontario
and the Chicken Farmers of Ontario to support and
encourage the development of the Chicken Industry in
the Northern Areas of this Province.
Resolution 2: Issue, the lack of veterinarians licensed
to care for large animals in Rural Areas of Northern
Ontario. Resolved that FWIO request the Government
of Ontario to supply financial support for men or women
who enter the College of Veterinarian Training with an
agreement to practise as Large Animal Veterinarians in
the rural areas of the north for a certain number of years.
~ By International Officer, Cindi Rabstein
Well, as I write this, it is anything
but spring; I have at least two feet
of snow outside. But spring is just around the corner, so
they tell me.
In her January 2013 newsletter, Margaret Yetman,
our Area Canada President, says that $8,075 has been
received for our Canada Area Project, “Climate Change
and its effects on Women”, so we need $1,925 more to
reach our goal of $10,000. Canada Area can be proud
to have once again reached out to women and their
families in need of financial support, so that they may be
empowered to attain better economic standards.
The ACWW board once again suggested that we do
“Women Walk the World” on ACWW Day, April 29th, as it
was such a huge success last year, raising 40,000 Pounds
sterling. The Projects Committee continues to support
rural women, families and communities through projects
for water and sanitation, health education, nutrition,
literacy, training home economics, agriculture, income
generation, leadership, and scholarships in social and
community welfare. In 2012, ACWW approved 24 projects
with funding amounting over 125,000 pounds sterling.
Help stop the spread of germs; use Antiseptic Wipes. Gail
writes, “According to researchers, shopping cart handles
have more germs than public restrooms, making them
one of the worst public places for germs. During a visit
to a Wal-Mart in New York, I noticed an antiseptic wipe
dispenser located at the entrance of the store. I was able
to pull a wipe from the dispenser and wipe down the
shopping cart handle as well as my hands before having
to put my hands on the handles and therefore reducing
the chances of both contracting and spreading germs.”
The Triennial Conference gets underway in Chennai, India
from Sept 26 - Oct 2, 2013. The theme is “Empowering
Women Worldwide - Encourage, Educate, Enrich”. Are you
going? During the ACWW board meeting in October, each
member was given a doll, handmade from the same fabric
to show that across the world, even though we are all
different, we are ultimately all the same. Board members
can name and dress their dolls as they wish. The dolls
will meet up again in Chennai. Our Canada Area Doll is
called Joy. The name is of old French and Latin origin, and
symbolizes the joy received by women and their families
worldwide through the generous support of ACWW.
Margaret Yetman would be happy to take any postcards
or Pennies for Friendship donations with her to Chennai.
If you have access to a computer, visit the ACWW website:
www.acww.org.uk. You will be glad you did.
Why couldn’t all stores that have shopping carts provide
an Antiseptic Wipe Dispenser? Maybe we just need to ask!
Canada Comforts sends greetings, and again thanks you
for all of your contributions.
Glenna can be reached at 519-824-0217 or
[email protected].
Contact Cindi at 519-843-2222 or
[email protected].
A very good idea has come in from Leeds-Grenville
District WI. We could all work on this project.
12
Meet the Members
Introducing... Margaret Killeen
When Margaret was a school teacher, she often took her class to entertain a group
of women. When she retired, she discovered that all this time it was the Women's
Institute she had been visiting. Living in Bowmanville, she found there was no WI,
so she decided to invite some women to her home to discuss forming a Branch. On February 26, 1981, forty-four
women showed up to this meeting and there was the nucleus of a very active Branch, one that is still in existence
to this day. The Charter Meeting of Providence-Shaw WI was held on March 12, 1981 with 29 Charter Members in
attendance in Durham West District. Margaret was the founding President for the first 3 years.
Margaret is a long-time WI Member and has played an important role in the formation of Branches in Trent Valley
Area. She was nominated by Beryl Harris to be the First New Branch Organizer for the Area at the Convention in
1992. Margaret helped to organize and re-organize several Branches in the Area, including North Shore, Marlbank,
Norwood, and Kawartha Woodlands WI’s.
Margaret and her husband moved to the Peterborough area in November 1988 where she joined the Selwyn WI
and has held numerous positions ever since. Margaret was President for 12 years and presently holds the positions
of Tweedsmuir Curator and Program Coordinator. She had the pleasure of attending the ACWW Conference in
Kansas during the summer of 1989.
In 1997, as District President, she convened the 100th Anniversary Celebration for the Peterborough District; a twoday event that was held in Lang Pioneer Village – a fitting place indeed!
As Convenor of the Environmentally Friendly Hints book, written by all Members in 1990, this was on the Best Sellers
List for several months. It was sold to FWIO in 1994 and is still available for purchase from the Provincial Office.
Margaret’s fellow Members appreciate all that she does and would like to acknowledge all of her hard work over the
years in developing new Branches and recruiting new WI Members. Margaret’s late husband drove her to numerous
events, and their time and traveling costs have not gone unnoticed. Margaret has influenced many women to join
the Selwyn WI. Still enthusiastic, she urges women to come and visit the Branch, as they may like what they see - and
what they do with their lunches is always great! As she says, you will be very welcomed to join their ‘family’.
Introducing... Vi (Violet) Hayward
Vi was born in 1914 and raised in a farming community in the former Esquesing
Township in Halton County. After her marriage in 1935 and three children later,
they farmed for a few years, and then moved into Milton in 1945 and later
Nassagaweya Township in 1956 where she joined the Busy Bees WI Branch
which disbanded in 1963. Vi enjoyed cooking, sewing, crocheting, reading and
her involvement in the local church. A few years later in 1973, they moved to
Orangeville and Vi joined The Maples WI (Central Area) which she has been a
Member of for 37 years. She served in various offices within the Branch, played
the piano when called upon and helped out a great deal when the Branch had their community hall. In later years,
Vi has been a part of the telephone committee and enjoys contacting the Members each month. She continues to
live on her own in her condo and still enjoys reading with the help of a magnifying glass. Hopefully, Vi will continue
to keep healthy to celebrate her 100th Birthday next year and, as well, The Maples WI will celebrate their 100th too!
13
Mansfield WI
Mansfield WI (Central Area) is proud of the
restoration project recently completed on
the Mansfield Cenotaph. Member Jane
Hawkins presented the idea in the summer
of 2011. The original Cenotaph was erected
by the Branch in 1952, so Members felt it was
fitting that they take on the commitment to restore and enhance
the Cenotaph. The meeting gave full support and a committee was
formed. The cost to restore the Cenotaph, build a concrete walkway
and flagstone path leading to a park bench surrounded by a Memorial
Pictured (L-R): Blaunshe Ciach, Marlene McLaren,
Garden was $10,000. Also included was an additional bronze plaque
MP David Tilson, Jane Hawkins, Alina Greer, Norma
to honour others who have served, including those who served in
Gallaugher, Isabel Ireland and Mulmur Councillor
Earl Hawkins.
Afghanistan. One half of the funding came from Veteran’s Affairs,
while the balance was raised by the Mansfield WI. The monies came from fundraising, cash donations from people in
the community, in-kind donations and local businesses.
On November 9, 2012, Dufferin-Caledon MP David Tilson confirmed the grant of $5,000 on behalf of Veteran’s Affairs
along with sincere congratulations to the Branch for their hard work and dedication. Township of Mulmur Councillor
Earl Hawkins presented the WI with a certificate of appreciation for the improvements made to the Cenotaph. A very
well attended Rededication and Remembrance Day Ceremony took place at the Cenotaph on November 11, 2012.
Hastings District
The "first" Hastings County Women’s Institute Bursary
was presented to Natasha Moon, a second-year Loyalist
College (Belleville) Social Service Worker student by
Judy Kupecz, Vice President. The presentation took
place at the 22nd annual Loyalist College Undergraduate
Awards ceremony on
November 13, 2012.
Hastings District is part
of Trent Valley Area.
Pictured (L-R): Natasha
Moon receives the Hastings
County Women’s Institute
Bursary from District Vice
President, Judy Kupecz.
Rockton WI
Rockton WI promotes the education and personal growth
of women by supporting its local Fair’s Ambassador
Program. The Branch recently sponsored candidate
Angela Hunt in the 2012 competition.
Pictured: Barb
Wieczorek, Branch
President Marianne
Vogel, Marilynn
Zimmerman,
Dorothy Kuik and
Pat Cooper with
Angela Hunt.
14
Wentworth
District
The Rockton, TroyLynden, Clyde & Scott’s
Corners, and Westover
WI’s (Hamilton Area)
all agreed that their
own Dorothy Kuik is a
Woman of Excellence!
Dorothy has been a part of the Rockton community since
birth. Family, farming, fairs, WI, church and volunteering
have kept her involved. Besides actively participating in
many aspects of Rockton’s World Fair, Dorothy is a loyal
Branch and District WI Member. She is a U.C.W. member at
Rockton United Church and has led church youth groups.
Dorothy sews “layettes for Haiti”, volunteered in school
libraries and campaigned to keep the local library open.
Interested in community history, Dorothy is a member
of Friends of Westfield and Friends of St. Albans Church.
Dorothy is a committed volunteer within the community
and outside at McMaster Children’s Hospital. A dependable,
thoughtful, competent and giving person – Dorothy is a
Woman of Excellence.
Pictured: Wentworth District President, Lorraine Goit and Rockton
WI President Marianne Vogel present Dorothy Kuik with the 2012
Wentworth District Woman of Excellence Fair Award at the Rockton
Fair Awards Night, November 23, 2012.
All for a Good Cause
Burnstown WI
Through learning about dementia and
Alzheimer’s disease, a group was developed
to create blankets to help those suffering. Once
a month, some of the Members of Burnstown WI
(Eastern Area) get together to make “Fidget Blankets”.
The blanket is made from different textured fabrics
and other items which are sewn on to “fidget” with;
not to mention a lot of love. Patients from Bonnechere
Manor and Ottawa Civic Hospital have benefited from
these blankets, with rave reviews from the families
and staff. The Branch would like to thank Stardust
Upholstery in Renfrew for their help, kindness, and
generosity in donating remnants to the program.
Wabash WI
At a barbeque sponsored by North Kent Mutual
Insurance (Dresden), the Wabash WI (Southwestern
Area) presented a cheque to the Dresden Community
Health Foundation (DCHF) for $500. North Kent
Mutual matched donations up to $25,000 made to
the Foundation. The
medical centre was
opened in November
2012.
Pictured: Pat Wills
(DCHF volunteer), Ida
Holmes and Sandra
Devries from the Wabash WI.
Hawkestone WI
Pictured: Burnstown WI's "fidget blankets" have taken the area
by storm! Members show one of their creations which will
bring comfort to an individual living with dementia.
Langton WI
Instead of gift exchange this past Christmas, Langton
WI Members made donations to Mary McElhone
Missionary in Papua, Indonesia. Convenors for this
joyful event were WI Members Mary DeCloet and
Helen Young.
Pictured in the front row (L-R): Dorothy Priddle, Anne DeCoene,
Pat Gaye, Leona Goethals and Jean Hamm. Back row: Eva
Main, Dorothy Hemstra, Donna McLarty, Julia DeWaele, Anise
Romel Deelen, Marie Dickens, Alma Codling, Mary DeCloet,
Jackie Wulleman, Helen Young, Trudy Konopetski, Marja
VanEs, Susan Kershaw and Vivian Lloyd.
Over a three-year period, Hawkestone WI (Simcoe
Area), with the support of Westmount United Church,
has filled 241 bags for the Green Haven Women's
Shelter in Orillia. Each bag contains pyjamas, socks,
underwear, toothbrush, toothpaste, comb, story
book, colouring book, crayons, stuffed animal, toy etc.
Crib sheets, quilts and hand knitted sweaters have
also been donated.
The Branch also held
a special event on
February 12, 2013.
A pancake supper
was held at Shaw's
Pancake House near
Orillia; a wonderful fundraiser for
Hawkestone WI to
help with community outreach.
Pictured: Hawkestone
WI Member, Joan
Banbury, and Shari
of the Green Haven
Shelter.
15
For Your
information
2013 Board Listing
Woman of Excellence in Agriculture Award
Deadline: June 30, 2013
Since 1996, FWIO has recognized the significant contributions made by women
in agriculture at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair by presenting them with the
prestigious Woman of Excellence in Agriculture Award.
FWIO invites you to recognize a deserving woman who is involved in
agriculture, the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair and her community. The winner
will be selected by an appointed committee of FWIO representatives and will
be FWIO’s guest of honour at the Tribute to Agricultural Excellence Luncheon,
where the award will be presented.
President
Evelyn Peck
President-Elect
Margaret Byl
Northern Region
Margaret Christenson
Joyce Cockle
Eastern Region
Myra Kelly
Mary Shortt
Criteria for Selection: Open to all Ontario women currently involved in
agriculture, The Royal Agricultural Winter Fair and their community (i.e. 4-H,
Fair Board or Plowing Match).
Southern Region
Kim Sauder
Eleanor Williams
Your nomination package must include:
Western Region
Alana Robinson
Barbara Weese
•
A typed profile, not to exceed 500 words, describing the agricultural
work of the nominee, involvement at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair
and in their community.
•
Three letters of recommendation (not to exceed one page each) and
contact information.
•
The nominee’s contact information.
HospitalityHOMES
Thank you
to our Partners
Nomination packages may be submitted to the FWIO Provincial Office.
PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT
NO. - 40036824
Hospitality Homes in Ontario are open to all WI Members and their companions
for $15 each per night. If you would like to be added to the list or if you need to
take your name off the list – please let Gillian Catto know.
To obtain a copy of the list, visit the FWIO website,
email Gillian at [email protected] or send three 63 cent stamps to Gillian Catto at
89 Ellmen Road, Whitefish, ON P0M 3E0.
RETURN UNDELIVERABLE
CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO:
FWIO
7382 WELLINGTON ROAD 30
RR 5
GUELPH ON N1H 6J2
Email: [email protected]