ROSE Garden

Long Standing Tradition of Friendship Continues...page 2 Provincial Conference 2014...page 6

FALL 2013

NEWSLETTER DEADLINE DATESPlease send stories and photos for consideration in the Home & Country ROSE Garden to the FWIO Provincial Office or andream@fwio.on.ca no later than the content deadline dates below.

Winter 2014 - December 1, 2013

Spring/Summer 2014 - April 1, 2014

The Home & Country ROSE Garden is published three times a year by the

Federated Women’s Institutes of Ontario.

Editor Andrea Morrison

andream@fwio.on.ca Proof Reader Ruth Kennedy

Graphics Big Footprints Inc., Cambridge

www.bigfootprints.ca

Copyright © FWIO 2013Copyrighted 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 – 1715-216XPrinted on recyclable paper by

Webco Publications, London, ON.Publications Mail Agreement No.

40036824

Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to:

Federated Women’s Institutes of Ontario

7382 Wellington Road 30 RR 5, Guelph ON N1H 6J2

Tel: 519-836-3078Fax: 519-836-9456

Email: fwio@fwio.on.ca www.fwio.on.ca

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Long Standing Tradition of Friendship ContinuesOn July 31, 2013, Lambton District WI, along with members from other Ontario Branches, hosted 22 members of the Michigan Association of Family & Community Education (MAFCE) for an International Exchange Day. This year’s exchange - which dates back to the 1930’s - saw members of MAFCE traveling to Ontario for a day organized by a committee of the Lambton District. The event began at Seaway Kiwanis Pavilion in Sarnia where coffee and treats were enjoyed while news and information were exchanged. Roll Call was the strangest thing you have ever used a corn broom for. Answers included chasing bats, a broom dance, cleaning out grain wagons, chasing the dog, using the straw for toothpicks or to check if the cake was done. A luncheon cruise was enjoyed on the St. Clair River. For more on this story, visit www.fwio.on.ca.

CONTACT INFORMATION

FWIO Provincial Office (see left)

ROSE Program Manager Andrea Morrison Ph: 519-836-3078 roseprogram@fwio.on.ca

Advocacy Coordinator Glenna Smith Ph: 519-824-0217 advocacycoordinator@fwio.on.ca

Membership Coordinator Ellen Martin Ph: 613-433-3463 membershipcoordinator@fwio.on.ca

Public Relations Coordinator Donna Henderson Ph: 519-418-7480 publicrelations@fwio.on.ca

International Officer Cynthia Rabstein Ph: 519-843-2222 internationalofficer@fwio.on.ca

Additional contact information is available with the Coordinator & Officer reports on page 12.

FWIO OFFICE HOURSThe FWIO switchboard is open

Monday – Thursday 9am – 4pm. If you call and get our answering

machine, we are busy helping 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.

Inside:4. Back 2 Basics

5. Resolution: Lifestyles Program

6. Branch Profile

8-11. Down the Garden Path

12. Tweedsmuir Report

13. Upcoming AGM Details

14-15. 100th Anniversaries

How quickly the days and seasons roll by when we are busy!

Since beginning my duties as President, I have had the pleasure of attending many Women’s Institute functions and District Annuals. It has been wonderful to be able to put faces to names and to see how unique each group is and yet how similar.

Because I value the educational and social opportunities that Women’s Institute provides, I feel very fortunate to have been able to attend the meetings and celebrations and only wish that timing and distance had allowed me to be present at more.

Everywhere, the welcomes were warm and the hospitality was superb. It is inspiring to see the dedication, ingenuity and pride of so many Members. Many memories have stayed with me.

I was impressed by the oral histories presented at Renfrew South. Their Tweedsmuir Coordinator made audio recordings of some senior Members sharing their memories. Hearing each woman’s voice tell her story was remarkable!

The guest speaker at Hastings District emphasized that we need to get back to basics! She said our grandmothers had it right by eating fresh wholesome foods and drinking water, getting lots of exercise through their hard work and getting plenty of sleep. This really accentuated the value of our Back 2 Basics theme.

A Frontenac Member told about her mental and physical preparations for a grueling climb of Mt. Kilimanjaro and her experiences reaching the summit. She urged us to face our own challenges and obstacles and climb our ‘personal mountain’.

At Peterborough’s District Annual where the focus was on youth, some young students bravely and competently delivered their school speeches.

My belief in the good values and capabilities of our younger generations was further reinforced when I listened to the

achievements and aspirations of the scholarship recipients at Prince Edward District and President Nancy’s words, ”Dream, Desire, Decide, Do”.

I urge every Member to make an effort to attend her Area Convention and District Annual. It is a rewarding way to make new friends, to gain knowledge and inspiration and to support the hard-working executives.

At the August Board Meeting, we were updated on the latest developments at the Lee. I am eager to make a return visit there to see the exterior painting that is being completed after preparatory repairs. This will be a wonderful facelift!

We accepted the recommendation that ‘Real Life Stories’ be our province-wide topic for the Canada 150 project. Let’s get started on our stories! Ideas might be generated by answering the 150 questions for Canada’s 150th. (The questions will soon be available on our website.)

In response to the many letters and suggestions to streamline our organization, a committee has been set up to begin the process of restructuring.

We are trying to keep communication lines open, so please read and share all correspondence from the office and continue to contact us with your ideas and concerns.

I am looking forward to representing FWIO at the ACWW Triennial Conference in India. I am certain to have many stories to share when I attend Area Conventions. I hope to see you there!

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By FWIO President, Evelyn Peck

Board Meeting November 19 – 21, 2013

Annual General Meeting January 8, 2014

Crowland WI (Hamilton Area) held a PASTA WORKSHOP on May 6, 2013 with people of all ages in attendance! The session started with a cheese ravioli lunch, followed by learning how to make ravioli. Attendees were able to take home what they made. This was the second pasta workshop, with the first being a basic pasta making session. There were 13

participants for this ROSE Session. Way to go!

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Howick WI Members of Howick WI (Guelph Area) hosted an evening of MEALS MADE EASY at the Howick Community Centre on May 3, 2013. The evening began with a social hour and refreshments provided by the Branch. Ellen Schmalz from Mildmay demonstrated how to put together several dishes with meats prepared ahead of time, by cooking the meat and freezing it – usually hamburger. Herbs and spices make a tasty alternative to salt in foods. They also enhance the taste of meat and vegetables. Ellen also prepared a quick salad which was won by a member of the audience, as were other foods she prepared with the “quick and easy” method. Several ladies went home very happy with their ready-to-heat-and-serve meals. The table centerpieces were various plants from the Listowel Greenhouse and ROSE Coordinator, Ria Stewart, drew the winning names. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed this ROSE Session and all the shared recipes for making a quick and easy meal! Pictured: Ellen Schmalz led this practical ROSE Session, hosted by Howick WI.

Crowland WI

Beamsville WI Each February during WI Week, Beamsville WI (Hamilton Area) holds a craft session that is open to the community. This year, Members and guests learned to knit the popular “twirly scarf”.Pictured: Beamsville WI Members Margaret Romagnoli (L) and Dorothy Burtch (R).

Roebuck WI Roebuck WI (Kingston Area) held a ROSE Session on SILK SCARF DYEING at the home of a WI Member. All scarves, dye and equip-ment were provided. Each attendee dyed at least one scarf – and several did more! Many laughs were shared among this very enthusiastic group and everyone left with a new skill and, of course, a new scarf! One of the attendees ended up teaching this skill to members of her church choir who all made scarves to wear at their con-cert. This was a craft originally learned from another WI Branch in Leeds-Grenville District - talk about a skill being paid forward! This ROSE Session also helped to raise the profile of WI in the neighbourhood. Pictured: Members and guests of Roebuck WI show off their brand new scarves!

4-H Ontario Alumni DatabaseIn preparation of the 100th Anniversary of 4-H in 2015, you are invited to reconnect with former members and leaders by registering with the Alumni Database. Do so online at www.4-hontario.ca/alumni or contact 4-H Ontario’s Coordinator, Alumni Services at alumni@4-hontario.ca or 1-877-410-6748 x 466.

Pictured (L-R): Brett Clayton, Janet Clayton and Kim Sauder get busy making ravioli!

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Having grown up on a small mixed farm near Mountain View in Prince Edward County, I became aware of and benefited from the Women's Institute early in my life. I recall at 12 years old being

excited to join the 4-H Homemaking Club, The Mountain View Modern Misses, and I still treasure the 4-H spoons which were given by the Mountain View WI at the completion of each project. Throughout our youth, WI was very generous in helping with funds for education. Two of my four sisters were awarded Women's Institute Awards. Most recently, my youngest daughter also won the Codrington Women's Institute Award on her Graduation from East Northumberland Secondary School.

Last fall, after I had retired from teaching, it felt like a good fit to join the Codrington WI. I wanted to meet more people and get to know my community better. What I found was a group of strong women who make a huge difference in our community and who were very supportive when I brought forth my concern about personal cooking and human nutrition falling by the wayside in Ontario's School Curriculum. Thanks to Florence Butcher, our Branch's Advocacy Rep.

Codrington WI's resolution is written out of concern for the health and well-being of future generations of Ontario citizens. We are extremely concerned about the fact that our young people are not being taught human nutrition and healthy personal cooking at school at an

early age. Many people of childbearing age have not had any hands-on training in nutrition, cooking or balanced meal preparation and this puts them and their children at a higher risk of developing health problems. This lack of formal training will make it difficult for them to maintain their health so that they can perform job duties and enjoy a suitable quality of life. We need to bring human nutrition and personal cooking back into the schools so it is delivered consistently across Ontario to both boys and girls.

Our resolution – that the Ontario Ministry of Education develop a Lifestyles Program which will teach students cooking skills, human nutrition and other wellness practices which will contribute to a healthy modern society – has been well received after being passed by FWIO in April. It has been officially supported by the Ontario Home Economist's Association and the Ontario Federation of Agriculture. There has been a letter writing campaign by WI Branches across Ontario to MPPs, the Minister of Education, Liz Sandals and the Premier, Kathleen Wynne.

This fall, there are plans to get official support from as many places as possible. If you wish to send a letter of support to your MPP, the Minister of Education or the Premier, contact Glenna Smith, FWIO Advocacy Coordinator (advocacycoordinator@fwio.on.ca) for a copy of the letter of support or you can write your own! Submitted by Nancy Villneff,Codrington WI

For additional information and to read Nancy's full article, visit www.fwio.on.ca.

Betty Lawson’s Branch, Salem-Nilestown WI, disbanded in 2012 but thankfully she was able to join the nearby Harrietsville WI (London Area) and continue her long-time membership in the Women’s Institute. Betty’s new Branch recently held a special celebration to recognize her 60 years as a WI Member. Family members, friends and former Salem-Nilestown WI Members joined in the celebration of Betty receiving her 60 year WI pin. Elizabeth Thompson spoke of Betty being president of her former Branch, giving interesting mottos and attending several courses. Betty also served as L.H.S.C. Auxiliary Children's Hospital representative. Betty is now sharing her talents with Harrietsville WI.

Pictured: Long-time Member Betty Lawson (R) receives her 60 year WI pin from her daughter, Elizabeth Patience (L).

When One Branch Closes, Another Opens its Arms

Codrington WI Initiates Resolution for Lifestyles Program

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BRANCH PROFILE: Russell Village WI It’s hard to imagine a more active Branch than Russell Village WI! Friendship, learning and volunteerism all come naturally to these Members...and there is never a moment that isn’t FUN!

Formed in 1936, Russell Village WI is one of five wonderful Branches belonging to Russell District (Eastern Area). With a current membership of 22, the Branch is always happy to welcome new Members or those interested in attending a meeting. In fact, they say “the more the merrier!”

The Branch takes part in many events year after year. Every January and July, Members host Blood Donor Clinics in Russell. About 6 Members escort blood donors to their seats, ask how they are feeling and offer them a refreshment or goodie. Members have been involved in this project for many years and they all feel very good about this work.

July is also a time when the Branch has their “Summer Trip Day” and by August, they are beginning to prepare for the Russell Fair. Each year, the ladies make sandwiches and pies to sell with tea and coffee at the fair. It is one of their many fundraisers!

Another Branch project is the “Keep Russell Blooming” campaign. Over 30 hanging baskets are located around the Village core along with 13 street planters. Funds are raised to pay for the flowers and their care throughout the summer season.

The Branch also sends out “Thinking of You” baskets and cards if they hear of someone who needs a little up-lifting. They support a sanctuary for battered women and their children, programs such as Doctors Without Borders, Habitat for Humanity and various local initiatives as well.

Lobbying, catering meals and hosting cooking classes are other interests of the Branch, but not everyone participates in each and every action or event. Members usually have their favourites, which helps to round out this special Branch. They are a great group of ladies very dedicated to volunteer work - but most of all, they are all friends!

If that isn’t enough, the Branch just launched a book in late July titled, A Snapshot of Russell 2010. Way to go!

What a wonderful group of friends! Gathering for a special photo on the occasion of their 75th Anniversary, celebrated in May 2012, are some of the Members of Russell Village WI. Back row (L-R): Ina Henry, Alison Thompson, Linda Clement, Jean Williams, Jane Adlard, Cherry Bekkers, Renee Gendron, Pauline Tyo, Betty Hay, Nancy Romme, Diane Wade and Eileen Hamelin. Front Row: Coby Bols, Mary Inglis (as Adelaide Hoodless), Corry Vandenhanenberg, Judi Hubbard, Shirley Van Dusen and Evelyn Ritchie.

Save the Date for the 2014 Provincial Conference!Theme: “YES WE CAN!”

When: July 11 – 13, 2014

Where: Ridgetown, Ontario (University of Guelph – RIDGETOWN Campus)

WORKSHOPSDigital Photography: learn how to get the most from your digital camera.

Native Crafts: making a dream catcher*

Quilting: a quilter will walk you through the process of making an item using a quilting technique*

Card making: make a greeting card to take home*

Floral Arrangements: you will be shown simple arrangements made with flowers from your own garden.

Car Care for Women & Tai Chi

*Cost of materials TBD.

COMPETITIONSEssay: a 500 word essay on the theme "Yes We Can!"

Miniature Quilt: no larger than 18” x 24”

Greeting Cards: a display of 5 handmade greeting cards

Prizes will be awarded for 1st and 2nd place with a Viewer’s Choice for each category.

Tour: There will be a short Friday night tour of the University grounds at a cost of $5.

Sales and Display Tables: Available at a cost of $20.

Guest Speaker: Linda Ambrose will speak about her book on Madge Watt. NOTE: The registration package will be sent to all Branches and will also be available on the FWIO website. Please stay tuned for more information as other details are confirmed.

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The Headquarters Fund currently sits at $661,993

Your support will ensure that WI continues long into the future.

To make a donation, contact the FWIO Provincial Office at 519-836-3078

Second Line of Drummond WI Makes Special Donation Community Chef Judy Dempsey (centre) of the Table (Perth's community food centre) demonstrates vegetable preparation done by a Robot Coupe commercial food processor. This food processor performs a host of culinary feats. It is designed for high speed and quality vegetable processing. Looking on are Shirley McLenaghan (left) and Theresa Brady (right) of the Second Line of Drummond WI (Eastern Area) which donated $1,200 to purchase the machine. Chef Judy comments that "the Table is beyond grateful of this much needed piece of equipment".

Lorne Sutherland WI Supports Local Hospital The Members of Lorne Sutherland WI (Eastern Area) have made a $2,000 donation to the Arnprior District Hospital’s Partners in Caring Foundation for its digital mammography equipment. Taking part in the donation ceremony from left in front are Ina Mills, mammography campaign chairman, Kimberley O’Shaugnessy, Pat Herrick and Marina Semard. Back row: Gwen Steinke, Berna McClure, Robin Smith, Jane Potter and Joyce Headrick. Missing from the photo are Jacky Connell, Polly McColl, Debbie Mohr-Caldwell and Terry MacHardy. The donation was also made on behalf of the WI’s Honourary Life Members, Agnes Brydges, Helen MacHardy and Hellen MacHardy. Wow, it must be fun when two Branch Members share the same name!

Norfolk District Donate Gifts That Make a Difference Stuffed animals, lap robes and quilts were again gathered and donated by Members of the Norfolk District WI (Hamilton Area) at their annual meeting in Langton on April 29th. Many of these are handmade and are donated annually to several local agencies who distribute them to children and adults. Representatives spoke on the value of these gifts and they will go to local nursing homes, the hospital, the Children's Aid, the Women's Shelter and to the police for accident victims. The 8 Branches in Norfolk had also gathered $1,220.13 throughout the year, which will be sent to ACWW to assist women in third world countries. Pictured (L-R): Helen Columbus (Vittoria WI), Madaline Wilson (Lynedoch WI) and Rosemary Stickl (Vittoria WI).

“If you think you are too small to be effective,

you have never been in bed with a mosquito.”

~ Betty Reese

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DOWN THE

Garden Path

Pictured: What a scene! The Members of Penage Road WI stand in front of the beautiful view which they captured in their paintings.

Pictured: Members hold British flags that were sent from England by a Member’s sister for this special meeting. Back row (L-R): Frances Millen, Margaret Wheeler, Pat Salembier, Diane Salter, Mary Wiebe, Jeanne Robillard and Sharon Beausaert. Front Row: Frances Evans, Jan Butts, Doreen Dedrick and Pauline Rockefeller.

Pictured in the back row (L-R): Rosa Valentini, Kathy Ball, Bernice Tasca, Elizabeth Douglas, Gloria Jansons and Claire Mills. Front row: Franca Gaio-Mazzolin, Kristine Soufian and Robin Pereira.

Penage Road WIPainting “en plein air” has been added to the accomplishments of a significant number of Members of the Penage Road WI (North Central Area). On a beautiful June day, the ladies arrived in Killarney, Ontario at the studio of artist Pierre A.J. Sabourin (Red Rock

Sunset Studio) and began an enjoyable and enlightening three hours of painting and instruction in painting in the outdoors. The scene overlooked Killarney Bay, which more than one of the Group of Seven also painted! Each Member produced a painting and the teacher/artist was able to find positive aspects in everyone’s work! While some ladies muttered about not being related to Grandma Moses, others obviously have some real talent. After such intense artistic endeavour, the group refueled with the world famous fish and chips from Herbert’s Fishery on the docks in Killarney. They ambled about the town not wanting to leave but did finally head home with talk of going for painting lesson #2 next year.

Walsingham WI Walsingham WI (Hamilton Area) held a ROSE Session on June 4, 2013 at the Walsingham Community Hall with over 50 guests attending from the local community. Convener for this second annual luncheon meeting was Sharon Beausart. Attending the luncheon were Marie Dickens, President of Norfolk District WI, Branch Members from St. Williams WI, Mayor of Norfolk County Dennis Travale, his wife Barb, and Councillors Betty Chanyi and Peter Black. Guest speaker was Paul Smith who spoke on the local history of the War of 1812 - 1814 and the connection to Norfolk County. It was a very interesting and educational program. Everyone enjoyed a delicious lunch, friendship, laughter and fun. Sharon asked that everyone bring an item for the food bank and received a great response.

Nobleton WIOn April 18, 2013, approximately 50 guests attended a presentation sponsored by the Nobleton WI (Central Area). The guest speaker was Kristine Soufian who has volunteered for the past 5 summers teaching ESL in Ethiopia. By teaching ESL to Ethiopian

children, she offers them hope for a better tomorrow through education.

Kristine’s topic was entitled “Something Good in Every Day.” She shared her philosophy that “Every day may not be good but there is something good in every day.” The audience left the presentation knowing that we do not necessarily have to travel halfway around the world to do “something good in every day.” “Something good” can be as simple as a smile or nod to a stranger passing by or lending a helping hand to someone in need.

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Glasgow WI Members and friends of Glasgow WI (Eastern Area) took part in a ROSE Program Mystery Tour. The Branch PRO (Public Relations Officer) planned the events and invited the ladies to come for an afternoon outing. They visited Miliken Gardens & Landscaping, near Glasgow, where they saw beautiful waterfalls, gardens, and a manmade beach and pond for swimming - complete with a dock to dive from. The next stop was in Carp to hear wellness clinic operator, Katherine Willows, speak on how to heal the body in natural ways. They were taught how to do “tapping” to relieve pain and stress. The ladies stopped at a restaurant for supper before heading home…an educational and fun

day was enjoyed!

Wabash WIWabash WI (Southwestern Area) Members and guests enjoyed the afternoon of May 30, 2013 at the Jennen Strawberry Farm located in rural Chatham Kent, touring one of the several greenhouses on the farm and learning how fresh strawberries are grown and marketed. A week later, on June 6th, Members and guests gathered at The Red Barn (Jill Neely's Farm) on Sharrow Road located near Wabash for a demonstration on “how to plant your summer

container". Each participant brought containers to plant after Jill gave an awesome tour of her yard filled with flowers, trees and the potting shed.

Yarmouth Glen WI Members of Yarmouth Glen WI (London Area) and their guests were enchanted and delighted with the poetry and local history presented by their guest speaker, Julie Berry, at a recent ROSE Session.

As always, Russell District (Eastern Area) made their Annual Meeting both fun and educational. Held on May 27th, the theme this year was “Protecting Our Local Environment” and the guest speaker was Candice Vetter, a noted journalist, author and environmentalist from North Russell. She spoke on the importance of protecting the environment and the lifestyles of communities. She gave several illustrations of how Canadian and international communities have been impacted by lack of forward thinking. Raymond Scharf, Russell's local fitness guru, led the group in a fast-paced and fun health break. He explained why it is so important to include physical exercise in our daily lives. The District also recognized Eastern Regional Board Director, Myra Kelly, who will be completing her term this year. She was given a monetary gift of appreciation and stated that she would donate it for cancer research.

Congratulations to North Russell WI’s Marjorie Dugdale, recipient of the Woman of Excellence Fair Award!

Pictured (L-R): Myra Kelly stands with newly installed Russell District WI Executives Mona Saunders, Anne-Marie Potvin, Mary Inglis and Elaine Meery.

Pictured (L-R): Jillian Neely of The Red Barn with Wabash WI President, Shirley Philips.

Pictured (L-R): Local Elgin County poet, Julie Berry shows her second book of poetry, The Walnut Cracking Machine, to Joan Jackaman and Joan Mansell who are both on the executive of Yarmouth Glen WI.

Russell District

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Sunnidale Corners WI The Members of Sunnidale Corners WI (Simcoe Area) have been keeping active! In May, they took part in a ROSE Session on Agriculture where they were given a demonstration on Straw Bale Gardening. This type of gardening can be perfect for growing a vegetable garden and offers many advantages to regular methods. Since this demonstration took place in the spring, the Branch was looking forward to returning in September to see how the garden grew! In June, Members and guests toured the Canadian Pacific Tourist Ship – S.S. Keewatin, which had been brought back to its home base (Port McNicoll) to be refurbished by volunteers. The Branch recommends a visit to this landmark!

Pictured (Above): Standing in front of the very grand S.S. Keewatin are Sunnidale Corners WI Members and friends.Pictured (Left): Sisters stick together! Sunnidale Corners WI enjoys having 3 lovely sets of sisters. From left to right are Della Giffin & Myrtle Bates; Dolly Mathews & Olive Moscrop; and Barb Harvey & Carol Dijondomenico.

"Women Walk the World" in Oxford Determined to raise awareness of ACWW (Associated Country Women of the World) and to collect “Pennies for Friendship”, women worldwide took time from their busy schedules and walked in their parks, in their deserts, in their remote villages and on their pavement sometime during the last weekend of April to mark ACWW Day – April 29th. Oxford District WI Members walked the racetrack at the Woodstock Fairgrounds and visited the outside of the Farmers’ Market on April 27th. Donations received from Members who couldn’t walk that day and from concerned citizens totalled $1,247 and will be sent to ACWW for various worldwide projects to help women and children.

“Women Walk the World” in Elgin County On Monday, April 29, 2013 from 10am to 12 noon at the Elgin Mall in St. Thomas, Elgin County WI Branch Members walked in a yearly event “Women Walk the World”, joining women in over 70 countries walking for 24 hours. This universal event under the leadership of ACWW assists women and their families in need to achieve better lives through education and financial assistance. The need has never been greater and ACWW is there to help through its members and member societies. Those participating in the walk were walking for Southern Ontario Support, which is one of over 300 societies worldwide who volunteer for ACWW. Through this event, Elgin raised $856 for ACWW.

Pictured: Enjoying their spring walk were Evelyn Douglas (Browns WI), Linda Hammond (Mt. Elgin WI), Sandra Stock (Princess Elizabeth WI), Mary Lou Ross (Princess Elizabeth WI), Ruth Skillings (Lakeside WI) and Margaret Ogar (Lakeside WI).

Pictured (L-R): Joan Mansell, Shirley Lunn, Eleanor Stover, Leola Sadler, Joanne Erickson and Theresa St. Pierre. Kathy Minnema also took part.

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Maple Ridge WIMaple Ridge WI (Kingston Area) has some very active Members who were recently recognized for their work in the community. Beryl Jacka and Margaret Everett both received the Ontario Volunteer Service Award, while Barbara Neville was the recipient of the Woman of Excellence Fair Award for her various roles and positions on the Fair Board. Maple Ridge WI has much to be proud of this year, as the Branch also celebrated its 80th Anniversary on June 13th at Selby Community Hall. Congratulations to all Members!

Pictured (L-R): Beryl Jacka, Barbara Neville and Margaret Everett.

Belgrave WI Members of Belgrave WI (London Area) were delighted to pose recently with an engraved bench which they have donated to the Heritage Park in their community of Belgrave, Ontario. The bench is to commemorate the Branch’s 100th Anniversary which was celebrated in 2011.Pictured in the back row (L-R): Nancy Jardin, Mabel Jacklin, Joanne Cook, Ruth Olson, Dianna Robinson, Kay Roberts, Doreen Marks, Wilma Higgins and Dorothy Coultes. Front row: Verna Norgate, Audrey Fenton and Mary Hunter.

Stormont-Dundas District Pauline Flegg (centre) receives the Woman of Excellence Fair Award, presented by Eastern Regional Board Director, Myra Kelly (left). Elaine Hutchinson (right) elaborated on the many talents possessed by Pauline and how she has contributed to her community and family. Congratulations, Pauline!

Boxall WI Congratulations to Members of Boxall WI (London Area) who were honoured at the Ontario Volunteer Service Awards at the East Elgin Community Complex, Aylmer on March 21, 2013. These awards are given out by the Ontario Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration for continuous years of commitment and dedicated service to an organization. Congratulations to Faye Thorn (30 years), Mary Ann Caughell (30 years), Bonnie Graham (10 years), Ann McLean (60 years),

Betty Rodgers (60 years) and Marje Lanning (30 years).

Pictured in the back row (L-R): Faye Thorn, Mary Ann Caughell, Bonnie Graham and Jeff Yurek, MPP for Elgin-Middlesex-London. Front row: Ann McLean and Betty Rodgers. Absent: Marje Lanning.

Reminder: The nomination deadline for the Ontario Volunteer Service Award is January 25th of each year. For more information, visit www.citizenship.gov.on.ca.

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Is your Branch behind in keeping your Tweedsmuir Community Histories current? Here are some suggestions to catch up.

Remember that scrapbooks of newspaper clippings are also Tweedsmuir Histories. It is better to capture the event this way, than lose it altogether if there is not enough time to summarize the activity.

Have work bee(s). My Branch is about 10 years behind so we spent the first bee sorting the information between subjects and then by date, where applicable. We then tackled one of the subjects at the next get-together. We first picked WI events and happenings, as it also gave new Members an opportunity to see past accomplishments and activities. Many hands make light work.

Ask help from students who want to complete their volunteer hours. (Thanks to Oxford District for the suggestion.)

The digitizing project with OGS is stalled. We are now looking at other options to get digitizing done across the province. Ideas are welcome.

Are you about to put a Tweedsmuir Collection in an archives, museum, or other location? If so, please contact me first. We should not give away our copyright, if possible. Guidelines and sample agreements have been drafted and were reviewed by the Provincial Board at their August meeting. Once approved, this information will be put on our website and the Tweedsmuir Manual can be finalized.

The Board recently accepted the recommendation that ‘Real Life Stories’ be the topic for our province-wide Canada 150 project. Thank you for your survey replies and all your suggestions. Stay tuned for our launch, hopefully in early 2014.

Irene can be reached by email (tweedsmuircoordinator@fwio.on.ca), phone (613-432-6987), or mail (1075 Calabogie Road, RR 1, Renfrew, ON K7V 3Z4).

TWEEDSMUIR REPORT National News~ By FWIO Executive Officer to FWIC, Joy Trimble

The 52nd Annual Board Meeting of FWIC was held June 13-16 in Charlottetown, PEI. The 2015 National Convention will be held June 9-13 at the Fredericton Convention Centre in New Brunswick. The triennium theme is “Women’s Institutes – Plant Seeds of Change”.

Branch Fundraiser – FWIC has partnered with Vesey’s Seeds whereby Branches have an opportunity to raise funds and increase the awareness of WI in their communities. Fall bulb orders have to be to Vesey’s by October 1st and spring orders by May 1st. Contact Vesey’s directly by calling 800-363-7333 and state you are a WI Branch and they will send you the information for your fundraiser.

Federated News – will continue for 2014. Beginning January 1st, the cost of the newsletter will be increased to $6 per year for individual subscriptions and $5 per issue for groups of 10 or more. A new Fed News Bulletin will be sent monthly to the provincial offices to keep FWIC programs and activities up to date.

FWIC Project – “Growing a Healthier You” began in February with a focus on “Take 10” suggestions for each month and offers some program ideas. These monthly Take 10’s will continue to the 2015 Convention.

FWIC Fundraiser – in keeping with the theme, FWIC has adopted “Willie the Worm” (who is green). FWIC is asking WI Members across Canada to collect donations at meetings or special events during the rest of the triennium to help feed “Willie”. These funds will be used to help FWIC achieve financial stability without the need to increase membership fees. FWIC challenges Branches to create their own “Willie” and possibly a jingle. Please send pictures to the Provincial Office which I will display at the provincial annual meetings and FWIO Provincial Conference 2014.

Check out Glimpses Across Canada and more of the above information on the FWIC website (www.fwic.ca) or on the FWIO website under Members Section/National where copies can be printed from. FWIC is now on Facebook.

Joy can be reached at 519-942-2093 or executiveofficertofwic@fwio.on.ca.

~ By Tweedsmuir Coordinator, Irene Robillard

Erland Lee Award of Appreciation

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The Erland Lee Award of Appreciation is presented by the Federated Women’s Institutes of Canada (FWIC) 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.

We would like to congratulate Mr. Hollie Archer, Ontario’s recipient for 2013. Mr. Archer is married to WI Life Member, Marlene Archer, and over the years has made countless contributions to Women’s Institute and the Erland Lee (Museum) Home.

The reopening celebration of the Lee on April 21, 2013, provided a special opportunity to thank Mr. Archer for his ongoing kindness, generosity and support to Women’s Institute and the Museum. Nominated by the Hamilton Area WI, Mr. Archer was presented with this prestigious award by FWIO President Evelyn Peck in front of approximately 200 guests in Stoney Creek.

Don’t Miss the Annual General Meeting!When: Wednesday, January 8, 2014

Where: Barrie, Ontario (Kempenfelt Conference Centre)

$45 includes an agenda, Annual Report, muffins and pastries upon arrival, unlimited use of beverage station and a buffet lunch. Additional pricing options are available for Members who wish to join the Provincial Officers for dinner or those who will not be eating on site. Please contact the Provincial Office for full details. The AGM registration form can be downloaded from the FWIO website.

Workshops: Thursday, January 9, 2014 (held in the same location)

Please note: Paid registrations must be received at the Provincial Office by Wednesday, December 18, 2013 in order to meet Kempenfelt Centre’s due date for final numbers. If we have not received your payment by this date, you are not registered. No exceptions will be made.

Open Provincial PositionsTaking on a Provincial Position offers countless opportunities. What we all bring to the table is our love for WI, but you might be surprised by the personal growth, friendships and fun you’ll experience along the way. Consider joining us and help influence positive change in this great organization. We need women like you!

The following Provincial Positions will be open at the next AGM and, in accordance with Area by-laws, nominations can be made at Area Conventions this fall. Eastern Regional Board DirectorNorthern Regional Board DirectorAdvocacy CoordinatorPublic Relations CoordinatorTweedsmuir CoordinatorInternational Officer

Provincial Secretary

Appointed Positions: Digitization Chair (Tweedsmuir History Books) - open

Canada 150 Chair - appointed, Irene Robillard

If you are interested in an appointed position, please contact the Provincial Office.

Mr. Hollie Archer

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Listowel West WI Listowel West WI (Guelph Area) celebrated its 100th Anniversary on June 20, 2013 at the Listowel Agricultural Hall with 55 in attendance. It was exactly 100 years ago that this Branch was organized at the home of Mrs. George Nichol located on Highway 86, west of Listowel with 13 Members in attendance. Mrs. James Henderson, a young bride and former school teacher, initiated the formation of this group and it has continued to this day.

President Kathy Newbigging welcomed everyone and the Institute Ode was sung and the Mary Stewart Collect was repeated. Dignitaries, Huron Perth District President Diane Bender, FWIO Board Director Barbara Weese, and North Perth Mayor Julie Behrns all brought greetings. Tweedsmuir Coordinator Muriel Hawthorne gave a brief history of Listowel West WI and their service to the community. Sandra Brears and Kathy Doig conducted a memorial service recognizing deceased Members from the previous 25 years by reading a poem composed by Winnifred Mann for the 90th Anniversary. Each Member received a 100 year pin, while President Newbigging presented Ruth Bristowe with a 70 year pin and Ella Stewart with a 60 year pin. A group photo was taken by Sue Farrish and the cake made by Mary Ellen Jacklin was cut by the longest serving Members, Ruth Bristowe, Elaine Carson, Mary Israel and Ella Stewart.

Eily Martin introduced the guest speakers, Agnes and Kim Henderson, granddaughters of founding Member, Mrs. James Henderson. Agnes and Kim did a short skit of the first meeting in period costume, wearing different hats to represent each Member. This was very entertaining and brought the history of the day to life. Old fashioned contests were held with Everdina Bender and Marg McMahon as winners and an apron fashion show was held. Agnes and Kim performed numerous musical duets on the piano and sang songs from the last 100 years - with many costume changes too!

Ella Stewart thanked the guests for a most enjoyable and entertaining program and the evening ended after a delicious supper organized by the committee of Sharon Chapman, Sandra Brears, Judy Robertson and Jean Ann Kerr.Pictured in the back row (L-R): Eily Martin, Sandra Brears, Muriel Hawthorne, Kathy Doig, Kathy Newbigging, Judy Robertson, Jean Ann Kerr, Cathy Linton, FWIO Board Director Barbara Weese and District President Diane Bender. Front row: Mary Israel, Ruth Bristowe, Wilma Hicks, Sharon Chapman, Ella Stewart and Elaine Carson.

Consecon WI Consecon WI (Trent Valley Area) celebrated its 100th Anniversary on April 22, 2013 by inviting all Prince Edward County WI Members to a luncheon at Consecon United Church. This was well attended by 60 Members. A good time was had by all with a program of questionnaires, funny readings, music and the presentation of long service awards. Mrs. Marion Walt received her 50 year pin, Rena Cunningham and Gudrun Schwarze received 40 year pins along with Lynn Keene who also received her Life Membership Award. Heather Mattis and Mary Blanchart received their 10 years pins. Paulina McMahon, Catherine Arnott and Sue Holmes received membership pins.

100thCelebrating Anniversaries!Celebrating Anniversaries!Celebrating Anniversaries!

Pictured in the back row (L-R): Paulina McMahon, Heather Mattis, Sue Holmes, Rena Cunningham and Lynne Keene. Front row: Marion Walt and Catherine Arnott.

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Fonthill-Singer’s Corners WI One hundred Members and friends gathered on April 20, 2013 to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of Fonthill-Singer’s Corners WI (Hamilton Area) with a Victorian Tea. It was an elegant event with ladies wearing decorated hats.

Greetings were received from other Branches, Districts and the Area, as well as politicians. Guest speakers included Mayor of Pelham Dave Augustyn and FWIO President-Elect Margaret Byl, who were both active participants in the event. Pam Bronn, a Branch Member, gave a most interesting history of WI and the Branch. Around the hall were displays of Tweedsmuir Histories, items that Members have made at short courses and items made by Branch Members to be sent to Canada Comforts this year. Caring for the environment is a special focus of the Branch, so native plants were given to take home and plant, to attract butterflies. Pictured (L-R): Pam Bronn, Diana Knight (Branch President), Margaret Byl (FWIO President-Elect), Dave Augustyn (Mayor of Pelham) and Dorothy Hare (seated) – who is 100 years young!

West Lorne WI On January 29, 2013, West Lorne WI (London Area) celebrated its 100th Anniversary with an afternoon of fellowship, entertainment and refreshments. Seventeen current Members and invited guests heard greetings from local dignitaries. Included were Bernie Wiehle (Mayor of West Elgin), Mary Ann Caughell (President of Elgin District), Jeff Yurek (MPP), Karen Vecchio (representing MP Joe Preston) and Cameron McWilliam (Elgin County Warden). The history of the West Lorne WI was provided by Leola Lawrence. Bill Graham, a local musician, entertained the group. On display were WI memorabilia, Tweedsmuir History Books and 100th Anniversary plaques and certificates. The Branch would like to thank all for making this such a special occasion.Pictured (L-R): Olive Chambers, Theresa St. Pierre, Frances Graham, Twila McWilliam, Barbara Popham, Donna Driver, Gwen McLain, Bonita Berge, Mary Liepann, Doris Sweitzer, Nancy Lashbrook, Leola Lawrence, Dorothy Japec and Shirley Walker. Photo courtesy of Patrick Brennan, West Elgin Chronicle.

Guthrie WI Guthrie WI (Simcoe Area) celebrated its 100th Anniversary twice this year. Back on February 19th, the Branch celebrated with a sleigh ride, followed by a lunch in Elmvale where some of the Craighurst WI Members joined them. It was a perfect sunny day with fresh snow on the trees, and the horses seemed to enjoy trotting through the snow with jingle bells ringing just as much as the Members did!

The second celebration was on July 10th when they held a Garden Party in a large garden on Nancy Partridge's farm. There were many visitors, including WI Members from other Branches, community members and the local MP, MPP and Mayor. Members June Sanderson, Carolyn Campbell, Edwiene Campbell and Corinne Anderson received their Life Membership certificates and pins from FWIO President Evelyn Peck. Many wore long skirts and fancy hats of the 1913 era and though the sun shone, it was a bit windy, which was a challenge to keep on the large hats! Dainty sandwiches and punch were served to the background of live Caribbean music. This was followed by tea and two celebratory 100th Anniversary cakes. Several neighbours and other community folk got together to share old stories and what the future would hold for them. It was a happy time for all.

100th

ROSE Garden

Craft workshops resume for the fall at the Erland Lee (Museum) Home! Learn a new craft while experiencing the historical atmosphere and enjoying fellowship in the circa 1873 Carriage House at the Lee!

Line up:

September 21st: Beginner Tatting - 10am to 2pm (cost: $20)

October 19th: Crocheted Wire Necklaces - 1pm to 3:30pm (cost: TBA)

November 16th: Outdoor Winter Planter - 10am to noon (cost: TBA)

December 7th: Heritage Christmas Ornament - 9:30am to noon (cost: $20)

Pre-registration is required due to the limited class size. Please contact the Lee at 905-662-2691 or erlandleehome@fwio.on.ca

If you have ideas for future workshop topics or seminars, please contact us!

Other Upcoming Events at the Lee

December 14, 2013: Christmas at the Lee with Caroling - 2pm to 4pm

February 16, 2014: Tea at the Lee - 2pm

Thank you to our Partners

HospitalityHOMES

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 gilcat@vianet.ca or send three 63 cent stamps to Gillian Catto at

89 Ellmen Road, Whitefish, ON P0M 3E0.

PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. - 40036824

RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO:

FWIO7382 WELLINGTON ROAD 30RR 5GUELPH ON N1H 6J2Email: fwio@fwio.on.ca

2013 Board Listing

President Evelyn Peck

President-Elect Margaret Byl

Northern Region Margaret Christenson

Joyce Cockle

Eastern Region Myra Kelly

Mary Shortt

Southern Region Kim Sauder

Eleanor Williams

Western Region Alana Robinson Barbara Weese

For Yourinformation

Erland Lee (Museum) Home Upcoming Events