~ HISTORY SUPPLEMENT of the ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE 1956-1975 :f. ~ dl" FOREWORD The 65th Anniversary in 1974 of the Alberta Women's Institutes was a milestone reached and it seemed the logical time to update the History of the Organization from 1955 to 1975. This Supplement includes a biography of each President along with a record of accomplishments, special projects and events, educational programs conducted on selected topics and highlights of her term, as well as a record of Conventions held, resolutions passed and Anniversaries celebrated. Throughout this span of years continued progress has been made in keeping with Institute aims and objectives. Educational programs and projects have been designed to meet the challenge of the ever changing times. Briefs have been presented, surveys conducted and questionaires completed on issues of interest and concern to the homemaker. Our Organization's opinions have been sought on issues of the day by various Government Departments. Our craft displays continue to be outstanding. Branch Institutes continue to provide numerous services within their respective communities as well as supporting Federated and Associated Countrywomen ofthe World projects. A.W.I. Girls' Clubs have continued to flourish. With the establishment in 1975 of a Provincial Office along with the assistance of a $25,000.00 Government Grant for extended educational programming in the rural areas Alberta Women's Institutes continue bein~ regarded as a progressive Organization. Alberta Women s Institute can look to the future with confidence as long as there is a need for an organization of dedicated volunteers working together for the betterment of "Home and Country" . I acknowledge with thanks the following for their assistance with the compiling and publication of this supplement: - The Past Presidents who submitted summaries of what transpired during their term of office. Mrs. Kay McMillan for her co-operation in making available sources of reference on file in the Office. The present Council who are responsible for the printing and publishing and to anyone else who contributed information and effort toward the supplements completion. Thanks to all and may it provide enjoyable reading as well as a source of information for all Institute members. Ethel M. Morrisroe 2 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE MRS. T. H. (RUTH) HOWES uth Beatrice Bloom was born in Alba, Pennsylvania on July 27, R 1894. After attending school in Illinois and New York, she received a Bachelor of Philosophy degree with Honours from Bethany College, West Virginia. She taught English and History in Ohio until her marriage to Thomas H. Howes in 1917. In 1925 they came to Willow Farm at Millet where they made their home until their retirement to the town of Millet in 1965. The Howes have three married daughters, 14 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren. Mrs. Howes joined the Millet Institute in 1925 and through the years served in many offices at the branch and constituency levels. As the Constituency Convener for the Wetaskiwin Constituency several new Branches were organized and a new Constituency - Ma-Me-O was formed. Mrs. Howes served as District 3 Director from 1946-1951. Many new Branches were organized and District 6 came into being. As publicity convener for the northern half of the Province from 1949-1966, Mrs Howes reported Institute news in the Edmonton daily papers. She served as Vice President for two years before being elected to the presidency in 1955. Mrs. Howes lead the Alberta delegation to the First National Convention of the Federated Women's Institutes of Canada held in Ottawa in 1957 and there was elected as Second Vice President of the Federated Women's Institutes. Mrs. Howes was assistant editor of the Federated News which was the official publication of the Federated Women's Institutes. In this capacity she was always looking for ways to help the Institute movement. In 1953 Mrs. Howes attended the Associated Country Women of the World Conference held in Colombo, Ceylon. On this trip she also visited sister organizations in Australia, New Zealand, Lebanon, Switzerland and England. On her return home she shared these experiences with many groups. In 1959 she attended the ACWW Conference in Edinburgh and in 1968 in Lansing, Michigan. At the request of the F.W.I.C. Executive Mrs. Howes completed in 1965 the biography of Adelaide Hoodless, founder of the Women's Institute Movement, entitled "Woman with a Vision". In 1965 she was appointed to a committee of three to compile the Alberta Chapa HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE ter of the book "The Heritage of Canadian Handicrafts". In 1967 at the request of the Canadian Federation of University Women, Mrs. Howes wrote the chapter on Adelaide Hoodless for the book "Twenty Canadian Women and Their Times". Mrs. Howes has served many organizations, the United Farm Women of Alberta; Canadian Red Cross; Canadian Consumers' Association and others often acting on boards and executives. She was honored by Certificates of Merit, the Centennial Medal and Life Membership in the Alberta Women's Institutes and the Federated Women's Institute of Canada. Mrs. Howes convened the Golden Jubilee Convention in 1959 a grand finale to her four years as President. A.W.I. JUBILEECONVENTION UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTA,MAY 26-29, 1959 THEME:-FIFTY YEARS FOR HOME AND COUNTRY: WORKSHOPS: A Branch Workshop was conducted on the first day of the Convention. A panel discussed reporting and publicity. Then the assembly was divided into groups and given a period for a buzz session. The topics discussed were the yearly branch program, branch problems, special activities, needs of individual or prospective members and adjustment to the changing times. Branch problems evoked the most interest and many solutions were discussed. In the afternoon the "Package Deal", a new method of group discussion in adult education was introduced by Mr. George T. Potter from the Department of Extension. To demonstrate the package deal, a group of women from Fort Saskatchewan with Mrs. Ferguson acting as chairman took part in a discussion on "Aging is Everbody's Business". Two other "packages" are available, namely "Your Child and the School" and "Canada and World Affairs". Co!. E. C. Cormack, Department of Extension conducted a Workshop on the topic "Live meetings and active members". He began by saying we are continually searching for ways and means to make our meetings worthwhile gatherings, and in every way to satisfy the needs of the members. SPEAKERS: Mrs. Keith Rand, President of Federated Women's Institutes of Canada spoke on the responsibilities of Institute members. To meet the many responsibilities they must be well informed. She cautioned "Man cannot control nature until he has learned to control himself, attained moral sanity and emotional stability". Dr. C. F. Bentley, Dean of Agriculture, University of Alberta spoke on "This Alberta of Ours". 4 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE PROJECTS: A.W.I. Fund Safety - traffic safety under the Health convener farm safety under the Agriculture convener. Arthritis - learn more of the causes, types of arthritis. Mental Health Indian situation - to be studied under several headings. PRIZES: Handicraft shield - Munson W. I. highest number of points Burdett W. I. second. Tweedsmuir History - Angus Ridge W. I., Wetaskiwin. Tweedsmuir Handicrafts (Grandmother's Quilt Blocks) 1. Sunshine W.I., Coutts 2. Falun W.I., Falun Tweedsmuir Cultural Project (Words and Melody) 1. Mrs. A. Walker, Fairview 2. Mrs. L. Peterson and Mrs. A. Walker, Fairview Scrapbooks 1. Clearview W.I., Red Deer 2. Rugby W.I., Didsbury and Alida W.I., Vegreville FIFTY YEARS IN REVIEW: Costumes dating right back to before the year 1900 set the stage for the evening with the Past Presidents. Mrs. A. H. Rogers spoke of the earliest beginnings of Institutes and introduced Miss Isobel Noble, first President of the Alberta Women's Institutes. Miss Noble brought to life the days when the new organization was expanding to meet the overwhelming needs of the women of Alberta. Initiative and courage paved new but solid foundations for service. Miss Noble's sparkle and gaiety were contagious. All those present glowed when she finished with the poem: Wonderful, wonderful fortunate you This is the year that your dreams come true. Many of the Past Presidents were unable to attend but the highlights of each term were presented to show the continuity of growth and change. Other Past Presidents in attendance were Mrs. J. P. Ferguson of Trochu; Mrs. Lottie Thompson of Lethbridge and Mrs. S. Lefsrud of Viking. Each added her experiences in the life of the A.W.I. with each playing an important part of it. RESOLUTIONS: Carried 1. Rehabilitation of prisoners. 2. Segregation and treatment of alcoholics in women's prisons. 3. That the National Film Board make a documentary of the International Peace Garden. 5 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE 4. That children attending school receive Family Allowance even after they become sixteen years of age. 5. That Indians be allowed to vote. 6. That the Alberta Government establish a degree course for the training of social workers. ACCOMPLISHMENTS AT CONVENTION: 1. A.W.I. donated $100.00 towards an Emily Murphy Pavilion in Emily Murphy Park in Edmonton. 2. A.W.I. voted to place a park bench with the Alberta Provincial Crest in the International Peace Garden. 3. Each Province was asked to help furnish the new National Office. A.W.I. voted to donate a portrait of Judge Emily Murphy-F.W.I.C.'s first President. TOUR: Buses took the delegates to the new Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium. After the tour, tea was served courtesy of the Alberta Government. A.W.I. CONVENTION-UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTA MAY 27-30, 1957 THEME-ONWARD TOGETHER: WORKSHOPS: A workshop dealing with communications in the A.W.I. was conducted by Mr. Roy C. Brookbank, Executive Director of the Canadian Council of Christians and Jews, Western Division. The evaluation showed that the best methods of communication were by demonstration, buzz session, panel and lecture in that order. The afternoon workshops were on "Problem Solving in the W.I. and "What, How and Who of Conducting Meetings". PROJECTS: 1. The A.W.I. Fund 2. Mental Health RESOLUTIONS: The resolutions carried were on: Child welfare. Equality of opportunity for Indians in education. Inheritance laws-that they be changed to make the rights of adopted children equal to those of natural children. PRIZES: Handicraft shield was won by Horse Shoe Canyon W.I. Tweedsmuir History prizes: 1. Sunshine W.I. 6 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE 2. Samis and Bancroft W.1.'s. Tweedsmuir paintings: 1. Mrs. Jennie Lefsrud 2. Mrs. P. C. Howat Tweedsmuir Hope Chests: 1. Sib bald W.1. 2. Pearce W.1. Short Story: 1. Mrs. Hattie 1. Chester, Barons. 2. Mrs. J. E. Jorgenson, Picture Butte. MONEY MATTERS: The President's allowance was increased from $25.00 to $425.00 per annum. The secretary and treasurer each receive $250.00 plus $50.00 for storage. Membership dues are $1.00 per member. OTHER STATISTICS: There are 284 Branches and 5,320 members in the A.W.1. Attendance at the Convention was 546. 7 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE MRS. W. R. (VIRGINIA) FORD V irginia Gow was born in Oregon. In 1917 her family came to Winnifred, Alberta, now a ghost town on the C.P.R. between Medicine Hat and Lethbridge. Her father settled on a farm south of Winnifred in an area which was soon drought stricken which meant there was little opportunity for Virginia to complete her education. However there was a teacher shortage at about this time and one month after her eighteenth birthday she was granted a permit to teach for a year in a nearby rural school. That classroom experience shaped her future in two respects. She had found her niche in life and she had now the means to continue her education. In 1924 she graduated with honours from the Calgary Normal School. Forthe next ten years she alternately taught school or attended university until she had qualified for teaching high school. In 1938 Virginia Gow and Walter Ford married and established a farm home east of Coutts on the Alberta-Montana Border. It was to be their home until the couple retired from farm life in 1973 and established their home in the Village of Coutts. Virginia's first contact with the Alberta Women's Institute was in 1929 when as a new teacher in the Manyberries community she was asked to become the leader of the local A.W.I. Girls' Club. After her marriage she joined Sunshine Branch as a charter member and became its first President. Beginning in 1949 Mrs. Ford served Warner Constituency as Convener, District IV as Director and the Provincial Organization as Vice President. She was elected to the office of Provincial President in 1959, a position she held for two years. Mrs. Ford was the first Provincial Officer of A.W.I. to represent the organization at any meeting of native women. The occasion was the first Western Regional Conference of Indian Homemakers held at the Blackfoot Reserve at Gleichen, August 18-20, 1953. For the next six years Mrs. Ford was the A.W.L liaison officer, speaking at Homemaker's meetings and contributing articles for their newsletter. She served as Junior Board Member for Alberta to F.W.I.C. 1955-1957 and as Senior Board Member in the years 1959-1961. Mrs. Ford was one of the enthusiastic promoters of the first International Friendship Meetings between sister societies of 8 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE ACWW which was held in Lethbridge, May 1956. Other contributions of a lasting nature that Virginia Ford made during her years in provincial activity included the instituting and compiling of the Book of Life Members under Mrs. Howes' presidency and also the impetus she gave to the compilation of local histories. In 1955, while at the FWIC Board meeting she saw the Tweedsmuir History entries. She was impressed with the value of such efforts and subsequently helped with the research and writing of "The History of the Border Country and Coutts". This book won the Tweedsmuir Trophy in 1957. She was able to give practical advise to groups writing local history in other parts of the country. One project during her presidency that she recalls with much pleasure is the Citizenship Workshops. In 1959 Mr. C. A. Westcott of the Department of Citizenship and Immigration, Edmonton proposed that his office and the Provincial A.W.I. cooperate in sponsoring citizenship workshops in various parts of the Province. The Citizenship office would provide the program and the personnel and A.W.I. would through their branches have charge of local arrangements and advertising. The overall purpose was to involve more groups in common problems in the field of citizenship. Meetings were held in Lethbridge, Taber, Calgary, Camrose, Edmonton, Grande Prairie and Peace River. The workshops proved their worth and were continued after 1961. Mrs. Ford decided to only serve the one two year term but recalls with deep appreciation the many kindnesses and the warm friendship extended her while she was Provincial President. She returned to teaching in Coutts Junior High from 1962-1969. Her time is spent now with church, fraternal and political activities, gardening, reading and writing. INTERNATIONAL FRIENDSHIP MEETINGS District IV Branches have been fortunate in having International Friendship Meetings for their members who would never be able to attend an ACWW Conference in some distant continent. These meetings began in 1955 at the grassroots level when Hillsview Branch of Aden, Alberta invited the Home Demonstration Club at Whitlash, Montana to attend one of their monthly meetings. Although the members of the two clubs were neighbors, they were divided nationally by the Canada-U.S. Boundary line. However, they were united by many common goals not the least being the desire to further good will between their respective countries. At the time of the first meeting neither club realized that the other was a constituent society of the Associated Country Women of the World. An account of this hands-across-the-border meeting reached the Provincial Executive of the A.W.I. at the time when plans were being made for the official visit to Lethbridge of Mrs. Alice Berry, Presi9 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE dent of ACWW. An invitation to attend the Lethbridge meeting was extended to all Montana Home Demonstration Clubs located near the Alberta Border. The response to the invitation was overwhelming both in a record attendance and also in the enthusiasm shown by the American visitors. They were inspired by Mrs. Berry's message and stirred to know that they were able through "Pennies for Friendship" to help women in the underdev~loped nations. A letter from the State International Chairman of Montana said in part: "Do you realize what a selling job you did for your big wonderful country? We were so royally entertained and loved every minute of it. I mailed my cheque today to London and hope it will help in some small measure". In the summer of 1957 the Montana Home Demonstration Clubs hosted an International Day at North Montana State College, Havre. We found the Montana women eager to learn about the workings of the ACWW and the Canadians in turn were impressed with the evidence of the creative skills learned through the extension program of the Home Demonstration Clubs. Will we ever forget the amazing centre piece on the giant refreshment table-two flags side by side, the Union Jack and the Stars and Stripes composed of red, white and blue blossoms of petunias and lobelia. The annual International Meeting returned to Lethbridge in July 1958 with District IV again hostesses. Dr. Nancy Adams, Area Vice-President for Canada of the ACWW was the guest speaker. Dr. Adams was at her best as she stressed the purpose of such gatherings-"to share a common goal of deeper friendship, understanding and hope for World peace". The American visitors were wearing red, white and blue ribbon corsages with shining new ten cent pieces as the flowers within. These coins were removed later to be donated in the "Pennies for Friendship" march for ACWW. The following year the Canadians accepted an invitation to meet with the Montana Home Demonstration Clubs in historic old Fort Benton. Again the American ladies delighted their Canadian friends with the novel favors, craft display and their heart warming hospitality. The largest gathering of all was held in 1960 at the Lethbridge Experimental Farm with District IV again acting as hostesses. Members from District III and V came by chartered bus to attend the gathering. Mrs. Irene Spry of the Executive Committee of ACWW spoke in her quiet and charming way of many matters the world body would hope to accomplish. She stressed especially our part in the Freedom for Hunger Campaign. There were over three hundred in attendance. From 1960 to the present, 1974 the International Friendship Meetings have suffered a slow decline. One can only surmise that a change in provincial and state goals may have made some difference. However meetings at the local level continue especially between Medicine Hat Constituency and its branches with the clubs of Toole, Liberty and Hill Counties in Montana the friendships are 10 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE 4. That W.I. Branches do not lend their names to Magazine salesmen. 5. That all Resolutions coming to the Provincial Convention be supported by research data. HANDICRAFT PRIZES: 1. Horse Shoe Canyon W.I. - Shield 2. Warner W.I. 3. History - Red Deer W.I. 4. Scrapbook - Jackson W.I. The Histories and the Scrapbooks Rogers and she urged all Branches happenings and achievements. and $50.00 were judged by Mrs. A. H. to compile a record of their SPEAKERS: MRS. NORMAN HEWITT - a lawyer and barrister spoke on wills and estate planning. (Since then she has spoken to many groups throughout Alberta and conducted Short Courses). MRS. E. J. ROYLANCE spoke on the ex- F.W.I.C. President pected changes in our organization and how to capitalize on them. of Sociology & DR. GORDON HIRABOY ASH I - Department Philosophy "Our Canadian Indian Study". How can our values and thinking be changed so that Canadian Indians are accepted by whites and themselves as they are?" MISS LOUISE TADIKER - Co-Ordinator of Women's Activities for National Highway Safety Council. "Safety on the Roads" dominate the machine instead of it dominating us or it will destroy us. It is in our hands. DR. NANCY ADAMSArea Vice President of ACWW spoke on her recent visit to the Carribean - "If we are to build Friendship around the World, we must give up thinking we have to have". MRS. ETHEL MARLISS - C.A.C. along with two other speakers gave timely tips on insurance and gimmicks of salepeople. 12 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE MRS. M. G. (MYRTLE) ROBERTS M yrtle Oliver was born in Calgary in 1905, the oldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. E. H. Oliver. Her first years of schooling were in Lethbridge and then in Calgary where she also attended Normal School. Teaching in a rural school, she met and married a district farmer, John W. Olson. They had two daughters, Lois and Genevieve and a son Larry. Lois (Mrs. Cecil McArthur) was Constituency Convener of Knee Hill Valley. Myrtle joined the Horse Shoe Canyon W. I. in 1924 a short time before her marriage and in a short while became Constituency Convener of Drumheller Handhills Constituency. In 1954 she was widowed and received the sympathy of many friends. Her husband had been a well known and active Municipal Councillor. In 1955 she was appointed Director of District V to fill the 'vacancy when the Director Mrs. J. R. Tait moved from the District. In 1955 she married Morris G. Roberts, a retired distribution manager for Shell Oil of Canada, and the father-in-law of her daughter, Genevieve. They lived on a farm five miles south of Drumheller until 1973 when they retired to Drumheller. As Vice President during Mrs. W. R. Ford's term, she assembled a panorama of color slides of Alberta and presented them to the Federated Women's Institutes of Canada office in Ottawa. Besides her Institute work, Mrs. Roberts served as a member of the Drumheller Municipal Hospital Board. ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTES 1961 -1965 Mrs. M. G. Roberts was elected President of Alberta Women's Institutes at the 1961 Provincial Convention held in Edmonton, May 23-26. At the Council meeting held immediately following the Con vention, plans were made for a firm foundation for the term ahead. Constituency Conferences were the prime concern and the President or Vice President attended all Conferences if possible. 13 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE Publicity was a major concern and various ways were tried to improve A.W.I. publicity. All branch reports were sent to the Publicity Convener in order to simplify and coordinate provincial reporting. A Public Relations Clinic on publicity was very helpful. During her term as Director, Vice-President and President, Mrs. Roberts had the privilege offree broadcast time weekly over CJDV, Drumheller. Some tapes were also sent to Grand Prairie and Peace River and used for Institute Broadcasts. The Institutes worked very closely with the Alberta Safety Council, help and suggestions being requested many times. In February 1962 Mrs. Roberts was asked to attend the Western Canada Safety Conference in Brandon, Manitoba as Alberta's official delegate. The next year she was asked to prepare and present a report of the Safety work undertaken by the Women's Institutes in the three Western Provinces. Mrs. Roberts was asked to help plan a Leadership Techniques Short Course at the Banff School of Fine Arts. This course was of value to all Albertans. At her suggestion the age limit was revised to permit older persons to attend. The A.W.I. had the opportunity to send candidates for this training course and it was met with varying success. The Federated Women's Institutes of Canada Board meeting and National Convention took place in Vancouver, June 14-23, 1961. Mrs. Roberts attended as Senior Board member. There was a large representation of Alberta Institute members. Mrs. Roberts accepted the Silver Rose Bowl on behalf of the Dinton W.I. who had placed First in the FWIC Citizenship Competition with a Scrapbook showing the renovation of their Community Hall. She attended five Board meetings and two FWIC Conventions. At the Convention held in Wolfville, N.S. in 1964, she was elected Third Vice-President of FWIC which she felt was an honor bestowed on Alberta Women's Institutes. As some of the branches were approaching their 50th Anniversary, Certificates were designed to honor these events. Mrs. Roberts presented Certificates to Verdant Valley, Munson and Walsh in 1962 and to Argyle, Clearview and Rugby in 1963. Other officers presented Certificates to Raymond in 1962 and to Queenstown, Reid Hill and Stony Plain in 1963. At the 1961 Provincial Convention, the question of whether to send a delegate to ACWW Conference was lost. However, letters were received asking that Council set aside this decision and send the President as the A.W.I. delegate. Subsequently a letter was sent to all branches asking for their decision. The vote was favorable and Mrs. Roberts attended the ACWW Conference in Melbourne, Australia and also the ACWW Executive meetings. These were very important meetings as a new constitution was being finalized. Prior to the Conference, she was the guest of the Broadwater Branch, a small Branch in the State of Victoria. She was extended a warm welcome and many interesting events, picnics and outings were 14 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE arranged by the members and their husbands in her honor. She enjoyed seeing shearing being done at a large sheep station and found there were problems there too. As the Alberta Department of Agriculture had given the Alberta Institutes a Grant of $500.00, a full report was prepared and sent to the Hon. Mr. Halmrast. A full report of the Conference was also published in the March issue of Home and Country for all Institute members. A "Recommendation" was presented to the Cabinet of the Alberta Government suggesting changes in the Course of Studies at the Schools of Agriculture. A "Brief" was also submitted to the Cabinet including these recommendations. Mrs. Roberts felt proud to be representing the A.W.I. on the Board of the Vocational and Agricultural Colleges when most of these recommendations were accepted. The Second Annual Conference of the Indian-Eskimos Association was held in Edmonton. On the request from the Federated Institutes of Canada, Mrs. Roberts acted as their representative as they knew she had taken an interest in the Indian situation in Alberta. The A.W.I. had worked with the Indian Homemakers and had assisted in preparing Short Courses for them. They were also invited to attend our Conferences and Conventions and were warmly welcomed. As we began our 1962 season, Mr. Glen Eyford, Department of Extension was invited to help us take a "Look at Ourselves". We hoped that our organization might be able to eliminate some of the paper work many of our branch secretaries disliked. We took a look at A.W.I. in the community and tried to evaluate its purpose, its leadership and administration. Was its purpose in keeping with the times? An important consideration is that a leader takes on responsibilities, gives guidance to stimulate the organization and delegates authority. In looking at the administration part of our organization, we asked ourselves "are we top heavy with reports and reporting"? Are we too concerned in reporting the past and leave little time to plan for the future? Still seeking all the help possible, the Vice-President, Mrs. John Richards was sent to Saskatoon to attend a course on "Making Committees Work Effectively". After receiving the "Pink" monthly report forms from the branch secretaries, it seemed to me that it would be better if these were sent to the Vice-President. By tabulating these reports she would gain knowledge that would be essential to her when she becomes President. The format of the monthly report form was changed slightly and branches were instructed to send them to the Vice-President. In November 1963 a dream of mine came true-the Provincial Workshop became a reality. This Workshop was for Constituency Conveners and Provincial Standing Committee Chairman who met with council members in a most effective session. 15 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE In February 1964, Mrs. Harry Marshall resigned her position as treasurer of A.W.I. after seven years of service. Her resignation was regretfully accepted and after several months a new treasurer was found, Mrs. George McMillan. She assumed office September 1, 1964. At the 1963 A.W.I. Convention we had the first Installation Ceremony for the Officers. We tried something else new-door prizes and they were all well received. An A.W.I. Scholarship of $1,000.00 was established as a Centennial Project, to be awarded to an Alberta University student majoring in Social Work. The FWIC Convention was to be held in Wolfville, N.S. and A.W.I. approached the Government asking that Mrs. V. G. Macdonald attend the meeting in order to learn first hand what the members across Canada were doing in Handicrafts. The Government listened to our request and for the first time the Government of Alberta was represented at a National Convention. Several of Mrs. Macdonald's suggestions were submitted to FWIC for the 1967 Handicraft Competition. While none of them were used in their original form, the 1967 Competition was based on one of her suggestions, namely Drawn Thread Work. Several years had elasped since the last revision of the Handbook. Much work was done by the Council to bring it up to date, but the material was left with the new Council to complete and publish. A Sampler Competition was set up for the 1963 A.W.I. Convention in the hope that members would gain valuable help before making a Sampler for the National Competition with the result that many beautiful Samplers were entered. An appeal for good used school books to be sent to the West Indies met with a wonderful response. Shipping them proved difficult. At Council Meetings when FWIC business was discussed, it was apparent that it was the Vice-President who should be the Junior Representative on the FWIC Board and this would help prepare her for the Presidential term. Mrs. Roberts brought this motion to the Convention where it passed, and has proven to be a wise decision. The newly organized Board of Technicians asked for an A.W.I. representative. The Vice-President, Mrs. John Richards was appointed and has been a very capable representative. We also had representation on the Alberta Safety Council, Canadian Red Cross Society, Cancer Society, The Board of Alberta Vocational Colleges and Alberta Mental Health Association. Mrs. J. Bielish, A.W.I. Chairman of Education represented us at the Canadian Conference on Education in Montreal in March 1962. In December 1961, Mrs. Roberts was invited to take part in a panel discussion at the Annual Convention of Farm Women's Union of Alberta. The topic was "Why do you want to exist as an organization"? She gave ample justification for our existence. The Department of Agriculture turned to the A.W.I. when seeking help in judging the Master Farm Family Competitions. We, in turn asked that the District Home Economists continue to hold 16 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE Short Courses for our members and to do the judging of handicrafts at our Conferences and Conventions. This help was freely given and was of great benefit to the Alberta Women's Institutes. The Farm Radio Forum sought our support and branches assisted in the 1962-63 season. At first some areas did not carry these broadcasts, but arrangements were made very shortly to overcome the difficulty. The A.W.I. members had been requesting council to look into the possibility of securing a Provincial Office. Considerable investigation was carried out and finally it was decided to invest $10,000.00 in Guaranteed Investment Certificates, which was to be the start of a fund which in time would support a Provincial Office. Three new typewriters were bought in the Spring of1965, the old ones being taken in trade. These machines were for use by the President, the Secretary and the Treasurer. A considerable saving was realized by buying three at one time. The A.W.I. received a Scroll of Honor from the Unitarian Services Committee of Canada in recognition of their outstanding support. Many huge cartons of good used clothing had been sent to this agency throughout the years. A.W.I. Scholarships have been awarded to outstanding young women at the Agricultural and Vocational Colleges for many years. The Adelaide Montgomery Music Scholarship has also been made available to promising students. Mrs. G. R. Rinehart, Cardston worked very hard on her "Idea Book", but when I concluded my term of office it still was not ready for the publishers. A 1967 Centennial Project "Make Alberta More Beautiful and Safer for Living" was well accepted by our members and many areas of Alberta have the A.W.I. to thank for the improvement. This suggestion "Make Canada Lovelier" was accepted by FWIC and it captured the enthusiasm of members across Canada. A.W.I. 33rd CONVENTION - UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTA, EDMONTON JUNE 4, 1963 THEME: "ADVANCEMENT, WISDOM, INSPIRATION" PRESIDENT: MRS. M. G. ROBERTS SPEAKERS: Mr. and Mrs. Reginald Kelley, descendents of Haida Indian Royalty spoke from first-hand knowledge of problems of the Indian in our white society. Mrs. Dick Big Plume, Sarcee Indian Reserve homemakers Club spoke of relations between white people and Indians, the problems of integration and the need for better understanding. 17 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE Mrs. James Haggerty, President of the Federated Women's Institutes of Canada told of the Institutes' tremendous force for good which spreads far beyond our country. She left with a challenge - "One person may start a fire, but it takes many people to keep it burning". Dr. D. F. Cameron, Assistant Dean of the Faculty of Medicine spoke on "Doctors of Tomorrow" stressing the great changes in medicine from the general practioner to the specialists in all fields. Many more doctors will be needed, encourage young people to enter this field of service. Mrs. M. G. Roberts, A.W.I. President spoke on the ACWW Conference held in Australia. Mrs. E. Ridley, who had also attended gave her impressions and displayed Austrailian souvenirs. Mr. W. S. Sharpe, Chief Instructor at the Traffic Court Clinic spoke on a program to cut down traffic violations. SYMPOSIUM: "Our Topics" - conducted by the Provincial Chairmen of Standing Committees, highlighted the work of the Institutes in the past two years and had a forward look for new projects toward Canada's Centennial. CENTENNIAL PROJECTS: A.W.I. CENTENNIAL SCHOLARSHIP of $1,000.00 to be awarded to the outstanding student majoring in Social Service work in 1967. Mrs. H. Simonson, Wetaskiwin, Provincial Standing Committee Convener of Agriculture urged that Alberta undertake the F.W.I.C. project, "Make Canada Lovelier". Mr. and Mrs. George Wilson, Drumheller offered a trophy for a Centennial Competition on the provincial level conducted on branch and constituency levels, to be presented at the 1967 Convention. Another F.W.I.C. project for Centennial Year was accepted, that of publishing a Canadian Mosaic of Canadian Crafts. Mrs. James L. Richards was chosen chairman of the committee to complete the Alberta section. (The book is titled "Heritage of Canadian Handicrafts" and edited by H. Gordon Green). Another Centennial Project accepted was the UNESCO COUPON #367, whereby funds were channelled towards helping establish Institute Branches in the North West Territories. A.W.I. PROJECT: The compiling of an "Idea Book" was undertaken. All ideas towards the improvement of W.I. work were to be sent to Mrs. G. R. Rinehart, Cardston to be compiled. Driver Education for traffic, farm and home safety and use of seat belts were to be topics of intensive educational study. A.W.I. WORKSHOPS: Workshops as a project were suggested and these should be 18 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT implemented OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE as soon as possible. RESOLUTIONS: 1. Resolved that: the Provincial Government compile information that would help organizations in accident prevention work. 2. That the Alberta Women's Institutes refuse to sponsor magazine canvassing. 3. That since Treaty Indians may vote in Federal Elections, be it resolved that they should be given the same rights in Provincial elections. 4. That Annual Provincial Membership dues for Institute Members be increased to $2.00 per member. 5. That: Safety Belts be an A.W.I. Study during the 1963-1965 term. INTERESTING ITEMS: 1962- Education Year in Canada stressed the need for continuing education for women at all stages of life. Health - The drug "Thaledomide" and the deformity it may cause to unborn children should be studied. Special Project - Barley for Korea. Leduc W.I. was given an "Award of Recognition" by the Chamber of Commerce as being the most outstanding organization in town. They had given 3096 books valued at $9,000.00 to the town and $1,000.00 to the swimming pool. A.W.I. 34th CONVENTION - UNVERSITY OF ALBERTA, EDMONTON, JUNE 1-3, 1965 THEME: "PROGRESS PRESIDENT: THROUGH UNDERSTANDING" MRS. M. G. ROBERTS The pre-Conference "Get Acquainted Party" featured Mrs. E. McCuaig, President of the Peggi Adams Agencies in "Make the Most of Yourself' a topic dear to each person. She showed how a few minutes care each day can improve our appearance and well being. SPEAKERS: Mrs. J. Philip Matheson, F.W.I.C. President spoke on "Change and Challenge". With every change there is a challenge. Our organization is a rural women's university, so together we can meet these exciting changes. Mrs. Lemuel Burke spoke on "Similarities and Differences of the role of women in the countries where I have lived, India, Pakistan and Kenya. Mrs. Burke brought out some important points, among them that even though women in Inida have taken high public offices, it is accepted that Motherhood is the most important role. 19 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE Mrs. John Gregory from the Research Council of Alberta spoke on the "Challenge of Leisure". Mrs. Gregory defined leisure as "The time that could be used according to our desire or choice". A whole society may be released from the necessity of making a living to the opportunity of making a life. Mrs. Gerald Meredith of Fort Smith told of her Institute and life in the North, everything is changing. Wisdom is needed so that these changes do not become disruptive. Dr. C. F. Bentley, Dean of Agriculture University of Alberta spoke on "The Faculty of Agriculture - 50th Anniversary". He spoke of its growth and the increasing importance of agriculture. Dr. Bentley was disturbed that less than 25% of the young people who were eligible to attend University were doing so. He charged the Institutes with the responsibility of correcting this situation. Mrs. Thelma Scambler from the Department of Public Welfare spoke on "Social Wellbeing and our Expanding Responsibility". She said that government money and action is not enough in helping those less fortunate to social wellbeing. There must be concern. She challenged the Institutes to provide leadership. Mrs. C. A. D. Ringrose, Canadian Association of Consumers voiced concern re deceptive packaging and the pressing need of standardization in sizes in children's clothing. RESOLUTIONS: Warburg Institute made an intensive study of discrimination in general and the problems of Canadian Indians in particular. The following Resolution was voted on at the Convention and passed: That the Government of Alberta enact fair employment and fair accommodation legislation for the Province of Alberta and that the Government of Canada re-examine Acts of Parliament such as the Indian Act for discriminatory practices and circumstances limiting those affected by such Acts in housing, use of money, self government and use of land. That the Provincial Government be requested to set up a Mobile Clinic to travel throughout the Province with a skilled staff in charge to conduct examinations to detect cancer of the cervix in its early stages; such clinics to operate in a manner similar to the present Mobile T.R Chest X-ray Clinics. That we ask the Provincial Government to amend the Soil Conservation Act in Section II to make provision that by Council By-Law, or in the case of Improvement Districts or Special Areas, the Minister of Municipal Affairs may by order prohibit the cultivation of virgin sub-marginal soil. Motion to complete A.W.I. Projects accepted in 1963, to continue voluntary projects and direct efforts towards A.W.I. Provincial Office. Resolved that Institutes at different levels seek representation on local Development Councils and on Committees appointed to study problems and to recommend the allotment of funds avail20 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE able under ARDA and the Canada Council. Resolved that the A.W.I. urge the Department of Education and the Department of Welfare to inaugurate compulsory registration and education of the mentally retarded and where necessary provide help for an association to provide and maintain a residence for rural students. RECOMMENDATIONS: That our membership dues to be raised from $2.00 to $3.00 per year. That our Branches undertake the study and alert our communities to the seriousness of the drastic rise in venereal diseases among our young people. It was suggested that films and educational talks be used. PROJECTS FOR CENTENNIAL YEAR: A.W.I. Centennial Scholarship to be awarded to a graduate of the University of Alberta to train in a recognized School of Social Work. George S. Wilson's Trophy Competition - "Making Alberta More Beautiful and Safer for Living". Vera Macdonald's Handicraft Competition - Drawn Thread or Drawn Fabric-Teacloth, place mats or runner. Centennial Display of Embroidery Centennial Cultural Competition-Painting As the President's allowance was not sufficient ($400.00 per year) Council was empowered to raise her allowance. 21 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE address to a Graduation Class. The foregoing are just random examples and bear evidence that she is respected by youth and the aged as well as her own peers. Mrs. Bielish is a member of many organizations, but she claims that she received most of her leadership training and the encouragement to become involved through the Alberta Women's Institute. She has served the Alberta Women's Institute in most of the offices, including four years as Provincial President. As President, she led the Alberta Women's Institute delegation to two conferences of the Associated Country Women of the World in Dublin, Ireland in 1965 and Lansing, Michigan in 1968. She attended the Oslo, Norway Conference in 1971 as voting delegate of the Federated Women's Institutes of Canada. In June 1973, Alberta Women's Institutes hosted the National Convention in Banff, Alberta at which time Mrs. Bielish was on the Committee in charge of Convention arrangements. She was elected 2nd Vice President of the Federated Women's Institutes of Canada and was a voting delegate to the 14th Triennial Conference of the Associated Country Women of the World held in Perth, Australia in 1974. Because of her interest in and involvement with Native People she was nominated to the Northern Canada Women's Institute Committee. As a member of this Committee, she visited groups in Inuvik and Yellowknife and met with Commissioner S. Hodgson and members of the Adult Education Department. Mrs. Bielish has been appointed Chairman of the Northern Canada Women's Institute Committee at the F.W.I.C. Board meeting following the Convention. As President of the Alberta Women's Institutes, she succeeded in arranging the attendance of approximately twenty Native Alberta Women at the 1967 Convention of the Alberta Women's Institutes and also arranged the attendance of two Native Women at the World Conference in Lansing, Michigan. Under the sponsorship of A.W.I. the Native Women were given Observer Status. One of the Native Women attended the Conference in Oslo at her own initiative, but travelled with the Alberta group. At present Martha is serving on the Advisory Board on Adjustment of Immigrants to Canada Manpower and Immigration Council, selected as a member of a National Women's Organization. TERM OF OFFICE 1965-1969 To record the work of the Alberta Women's Institutes for the years 1965-1969 proves to be a more formidable task than performing the actual duties and accepting the responsibilities ofthe presidency had ever been. What does one select to include, and what, because of limited space does one merely mention or leave out altogether? Please remember that when I mention A.W.I., F.W.I.C. or ACWW, you are included by virtue of being a member of your branch. Now 23 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF MRS. JOSEPH THE ALBERTA (MARTHA M WOMEN'S INSTITUTE P.) BIELISH artha Bielish is a homemaker, a farmer's wife, a clubwoman and a concerned citizen. The Bielishs have one married son, a sculptor and three grandchildren. She is a teacher by profession and does substitute teaching in the County of Smoky Lake whenever she is available. She served two terms on the Board of the Smoky Lake School Division, prior to the formation of the County by Order-in-Council. As a school trustee she was elected to the executive of Zone 2 of the Alberta School Trustee Association and then became its President. She represented the Zone at Provincial and National meetings, attended School Administration Courses and Principals Association Meetings. In June 1959, Martha Bielish ran in the Provincial Election, the first woman to run for the Progressive Conservative Party in Alberta, and although she was not successful she made a good showing at the polls and claims she has learned a great deal from that experience. On the Provincial Level, Mrs. Bielish has served on several Committees and Boards, some of which are: 1. Three years on the Alberta Agricultural Centennial Committee during which time a film was produced, a book was published, a cairn was erected and dedicated and "Making Alberta Beautiful" was promoted 2. Three years on the Provincial Board of the Red Cross 3. Six years on the Provincial Board of the Canadian Cancer Society 4. Assisted with Master Farm Family Judging on the Regional Level for eight years 5. Served on the Advisory Board on the Status of Women until June 1973, when the Board requested to be disbanded. (Report was tabled in the Legislature at the 1972 Session) 6. Served on the Board of the Alberta Council on Aging 7. Served on the Executive of the Indian-Eskimos Association, Alberta and N.W.T. Region. She has been invited to speak from a church pulpit, address a world gathering of women in Oslo, Norway, participate in a panel at an Alberta Teachers' Convention (North Eastern Alberta), address the Voice of Alberta Native Women's Society at their annual Provincial Convention on two different occasions, and deliver the main 22 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE that I have bared my agonies, I hope that I will be forgiven for the sins of omission. Besides being elected President of A.W.I., the highlight of 1965 was attending the 11th Triennial Conference of the Associated Country Women ofthe World in Dublin, Ireland. Warm hospitality, co-operation and fellowship were apparent at every turn as the program unfolded under the theme "Working Together". 1966 brought the 50th anniversary of Women's Franchise in Alberta, and A.W.I. joined with the Council of Women and other grou ps to cele brate Women's Franchise Week. A portrait of Ro berta MacAdams, an early W.I. organizer and a nursing sister of the First World War, who was elected to represent the Armed Forces in the Alberta Legislature following the enfranchisement of women, was presented to the Alberta Legislature by Mrs. C. R. Wood, M.L.A. An Alberta Council on Aging was formed and I was invited to serve on the Council. Two women from Guyana, Miss Enid Abrahams and Mrs. Isa King were guests of A.W.I. for the month of July on a UNESCO Study Tour. They visited the Legislature, were received by His Honor, Lieut. Gov. J. W. Grant MacEwan, attended Alberta Women's Week at OIds, also the Girl's Club Conference at OIds. They were billeted in members homes and spoke to women's groups, visited hospitals, travelled through oil fields and agricultural country. Haying was in progress and they found it very difficult to believe that in a few months the fields would be covered with snow, and the cattle would eat that dry stuff. Mrs. L. McMillan, Citizenship and Education Convener and I attended a two and one-half day workshop with Indian people from five reservations in the St. Paul District. An invitation was extended to the Native Women to attend our Provincial Convention in 1967. They accepted the invitation, were inspired and formed their own Native Women's Organization. I was invited to address their first annual meeting, and their second annual meeting. Another year I was asked to assist with the election of officers. A.W.I. joined with other agricultural organizations, like the Alberta Wheat Pool, United Grain Growers', Farmers' Union and FWUA, F.U. & C.D.A., Alberta Federation of Agriculture and others to form the Alberta Agricultural Centennial Committee. Projects undertaken over a three year period were: 1. A film - We Just Take It All For Granted 2. A book - Furrows, Faith and Fellowship, a history of the Farmer's Union Movement in Alberta 3. A Cairn - located at the Red Deer Junior College Grounds honoring the Agriculture Industry 4. Highway and Campsite Hospitality 5. Youth Exchange Program 6. Make Alberta Beautiful - Clean up, Paint up, Beautify. Centennial Year brought many invitations to attend celebrations and dedications of centennial projects. There were Branch 24 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE projects, family projects, individual projects, community projects and A.W.I. projects. Renovating and refurnishing a one room school, dedication of cemetary gates, launching a community history, participation in pageants, presentation of a century of fashions, planting trees, quilting bees and quilt competitions provide just a sampling of the projects undertaken. A special A.W.I. Centennial Project of a $1000.00 scholarship in Social Work was awarded to Miss Sheila Begg of Edmonton. An Alberta Women's Advisory Committee to Expo was formed in Edmonton and I was elected 2nd Vice President. Information about women's programs at Expo was disseminated and advance ticket sales were promoted. The 1967 Convention with its theme, "The Second Century Challenge For A Better Home and Country", had an air of celebration, and an earnest desire to meet the challenges of changing times. Some of the first were: 1. A budget for 1967-69 was circulated prior to Convention 2. Provincial dues were raised to $3.00 per member 3. Home and Country subscriptions were raised to .50c per year 4. Major project for the next two years - Provincial Office 5. Offer made by Rinehart Ranches to underwrite the cost of printing the "Idea Book". Later a cheque for $300.00 was received. 6. Panel of Native Women addressed the Convention, expressing their needs. 7. Original craft and cultural competitions. After the A.W.I. Convention came the F.W.I.C. Convention in Guelph, with a trip to Stoney Creek, the sight of the first Institute in Canada, and a visit to the Adelaide Hoodless Homestead at St. George, Ontario, also a two day trip to Expo was arranged for Convention delegates. While A.W.I. Officers were attending the F.W.I.C. Convention, A.W.I. members and the FUWA members entertained a group of Farm Women from New Zealand. Four native girls from the North West Territories and their leader enroute to the 4H National Conference in Ottawa, were met at the airport given a tour of the city and the Charles Camsell Hospital, taken on a shopping tour and hosted at a dinner in a member's home. Two students from the Phillipines, Mrs. P. Urgel and Miss Frances Navarro, returning from a ten month's course in London, England, were hosted for a few days in Edmonton and taken on a trip to an outdoor barbeque and Centennial Celebration at Penhold. In the spring of 1968, the A.W.I. Executive presented a brief to the Royal Commission on the Status of Women. In June 1968, the Book of Ideas was published. Mrs. Rinehart officially presented the first copy to the A.W.I. at the Warner Constituency Conference, requesting that a free copy be sent to each Branch, and that 200 copies be sent to Lansing, Michigan to be 25 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE distributed without cost to women around the world. As requested at District Conferences, the A.WI. Council set up committees to study Structural Changes and Provincial Office, and to present their findings to Convention. I was privileged to lead the A.W.I. delegation to the 12th Triennial Conference in Lansing, Michigan, September 1968. To meet the women representing two hundred organizations from every continent is truly an unforgettable experience. I was able to secure funding for two Native Women, Christine Daniels and Edna Shirt, to attend the ACWW Conference under A.W.I. visitor status. Both were extremely grateful and they have become leaders among their people. Immediately following the ACWW Conference, A.W.I. in cooperation with FWUA arranged a tour of the Province for Mrs. Aroti Dutt, President of the Associated Country Women of the World, from Calcutta, India. Her talks and visit made a lasting impression on those who heard her. She cautioned us to accept our responsibilities in regard to our Native People. I served on the executive of the Indian Eskimos Association on the Provincial level and was elected to the Board of the Indian Eskimos Association of Canada. I also served on the Provincial Board of the Alberta and N.W.T. division of the Canadian Red Cross Society. I tried to -keep members informed of their programs and encouraged them to assist whenever and wherever possible. A good relationship was maintained with Canadian Mental Health Association, Unitarian Services Committee, Co-op Women's Guild and the Consumers' Association of Canada. I attended all F.W.I.C. Board meetings and served on the Resolutions Committee. I was elected Member-at-Large in 1967. Correspondence was maintained with ACWW headquarters and A.W.I. representatives in London. Mrs. R. McMullen kept A.W.I. well informed and she did a great deal on our behalf. I feel that we shall always owe her a debt of gratitude. Mrs. McMullen resigned in 1968 and Mrs. L. L. Palmer was appointed. Both Dr. and Mrs. Palmer were Albertans, so once again we were very ably represented. A marked increase in contributions to Pennies for Friendship was noted in this four year period. The work of the Alberta W.I. Girl's Clubs continued under the leadership of the Supervisors with financial assistance from Alberta Women's Institutes. The 1969 Convention with "Challenge of Change" as the theme, presented many challenges for changes: The role of women; the role of the family; rate of change in cultural development; the changing rural scene; changes presented by the structural committee and the office committee. Lively discussion and vigorous debate followed each presentation. Very few were willing to accept facts as presented. Very few were ready for changes. Delegates agreed that travelling expenses of delegates to the Provincial Convention should be paid by their respective Branches on a pool rate basis. 26 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE Not all was business. A.W.I. celebrated its 60th birthday, and to help celebrate the F.W.I.C. President, Mrs. George Clarke was present. In her talk she gave us an insight into the branches of other Provinces and the Territories. She likened the movement to a corridor with many doors - doors of opportunity that members may take advantage of. Mrs. G. R. Ridley, a W.I. member for sixty years cut the birthday cake. The Native Women presented a panel Success with Unity, We Are Responsible. In each member's presentation there was a message to be taken home and reflected upon in the quiet hours long after the rush of Convention was over. And just as quickly as it came, it was all over! A Life Membership - a signal honor! A beautiful silver tray all suitably engraved! Little gifts and mementos quietly given. Some notes of appreciation! And still a few questions as yet unanswered. I heard the voice of Mrs. A. H. Rogers, "There is nothing so past as a Past President". The four years as A.W.I. President have opened many doors for me, and I can choose one at will - they all contain very precious memories. A.W.I. CONVENTION - UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTA, EDMONTON MAY 31-JUNE 2, 1967 THEME: "THE SECOND CENTURY PRESIDENT: MRS. JOSEPH CHALLENGE" BIELISH The Centennial mood was at a high pitch at this Convention. At the banquet there was a "Parade of Century Fashions" - a colorful exciting pageant. The oldest costume was 106 years. There was also a parade of Histories and Scrapbooks with fifty eight Branches taking part. Another pageant of ethnic costumes portrayed the rich multiracial and multi-cultural backgrounds of the people in Alberta. Mrs. James Melnyk of Warspite was the capable song leader, accompanied by Mrs. A. Huse of Alliance at the piano. At the "Get Acquainted Party" there was a wig demonstration with willing models from the audience. For the first time Native Indian women attended our Convention and were warmly welcomed. Mrs. Norman Hewitt gave the keynote address "Women's Challenge in the Space Age". Mrs. Hewitt successfully combined a career in law with homemaking and is the mother of three children. If "housewife" means to manage with economy and skill, she said, women if they are informed could control the vote and would be able to reform the laws that affect the family unit. A panel of Native Indian women, moderated by Mrs. Eugene Steinhauer, of Edmonton, included Mrs. Emma Minde of Hobbema Reserve; Mrs. Leona Willier of the Sucker Creek Reserve, Mrs. Madeline Goodrider of the Piegan Band on the Brockett Reserve, Mrs. Margaret Makokis of the Saddle Lake Reserve; Mrs. Ber27 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE nadette Crier. They briefly told us of their problems and explained some of the ways that they could be solved. Having these women with us and sharing problems created a bond that we hoped would strengthen as time went on. Before the Convention ended, these women asked if they could come to the front and thank those present for their kindnesses. As each woman expressed her feelings, this came out - "No one can really help us -we must help ourselves". As women before we can be equal with the white society, we must be equal with our men. That's the way we must begin. Mrs. Vera Macdonald, head of the Home Economics Extension Branch, Department of Agriculture, moderated a panel "Fulfilling Needs in a Changing Society" with four specialists from her branch. They told how the family's health problems, changing food habits, home living and social expectations can be dealt with by the homemaker. Changes are so rapid but there is help from the Home Economics Branch and they outlined some of the services offered. Mrs. Irene MacGregor, Director of the newly created Women's Bureau, explained the function of her position - to be an ear to listen and help women in various ways so they could be more effective in their communities. Mr. James McFall, chairman of the Alberta Agricultural Centennial Committee, showed the centennial film "We Just Take it All for Granted". He presented Mrs. Bielish with a copy of their Centennial Book "Furrows, Faith and Fellowship". CENTENNIAL WORK: Mr. and Mrs. George S. Wilson, Drumheller presented a trophy and prizes for the competition - "Make Alberta Lovelier and Safer for Living". First prize went to the Lac La Biche W.I.; second to Angus Ridge W.I. and third to Pine Lake W.I. The $1,000.00 A.W.I. Scholarship for a student in Social Work was awarded to Sheila Begg, Edmonton. FEDERATED WOMEN'S INSTITUTE PROJECT: Needlepoint covering for seats of chairs for "Fathers of Confederation Building" in Charlettetown, Prince Edward Island. Warner W.I. did the needlepoint on the Alberta Chair. Into the Second Century, the main project was to build up a fund from which the interest would support a permanent office. RESOLUTIONS: 1. Resolved that: Institutes at different levels seek representation on local development councils and on the committees appointed to study problems and to recommend the allotment of funds available under ARDA and Canada Council. 2. That A.W.I. urge the Department of Education and the Department of Welfare to inaugurate compulsory registration of the mentally retarded and, where necessary, provide or help an association provide and maintain a residence for rural students. 28 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE RECOMMENDATIONS: That our membership dues be raised from $2.00 per year to $3.00 per year. Because of the drastic rise in venereal disease among our young people, we recommend that our branches undertake to study and alert our communities to the seriousness of this problem by use of films and educational talks. A.W.I. CONVENTION - UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTA,EDMONTON JUNE 3-6, 1969 THEME: "60th ANNIVERSARY" PRESIDENT: MRS. JOSEPH BIELISH The "Get Acquainted Party" was held in 'The Ship' at Lister Hall. Mrs. J ames Melnyk lead the Sing-Song, accompanied by Mrs. A. Huse at the piano, both veterans of A.W.I. Conventions. Mrs. Vera Macdonald, Supervisor of the Home Economics Branch, Department of Agriculture officially opened the competitive display of handicrafts. For the first time there was a sale of homemade articles to help defray the cost of the Convention. The Convention was honored to have Past Presidents Mrs. J. P. Ferguson; Mrs. T. H. Howes and Mrs. M. G. Roberts in attendance. SPEAKERS: Mrs. George Clarke of St. John's, Newfoundland, President of the Federated Women's Institutes of Canada, was a special guest. "Members are the life blood of an organization and team work is what makes it strong" Mrs. Clarke said. She compared the many phases of Institute work to a corridor with many doors. Behind these are opportunities - all kinds of opportunities, if we just open them. Mr. Wayne LambIe, Agricultural Supervisor, Department of Extension, chaired a Symposium on "Meeting the Challenge of Change" with four experts in Economics, Family Living, Culture, Agriculture. Some changes in our way of life, shorter working hours, more women leaving homes, farmers leaving the land. These changes put strains on ourselves, our families and our society. Bascially the needs of people remain the same and. they must be met. That is the Challenge. Miss Sheila Begg, winner of the A.W.I. Centennial Scholarship was Guest Speaker after the banquet. She spoke of her social work "Keep us, 0 Lord, from pettiness and let us be done with faultfinding", and said in social work the A.W.I. Creed is most meaningful and should be used throughout - and "0 Lord God, Let us not forget to be kind". A Panel presented by the Voice of Alberta Native Women's 29 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE Society, on the topic "Success with Unity" - "We are Responsible" was chaired by Mrs. Christine Daniels. The panel members shared their problems and their ways of coping with them. Trying to understand their woes made us all seem stronger. Institute members expressed happiness that the Native Women had formed a Society in which they could learn and grow. Mrs. J. Bielish, A.W.I. President gave a report of the ACWW Conference held in Lansing, Michigan, September 1968. Slides were shown and those who had attended the ACWW Conference gave their impressions of it. RESOLUTIONS: 1. That the A.WI. discontinue paying travelling expenses of branch delegates to the Provincial Convention, and that fares be paid by the branch on a Pool Rate basis. 2. That Alberta Women's Institute go on record as being opposed to taxation of farm dwellings. 3. That the A.W.I. requests the Department of Education, the Alberta Trustees Association and the Association of municipal Districts and Counties that school facilities be made available after regular school hours for community purposes, at a nominal fee or free of charge. 4. Whereas, most career information does not state eye examination requirements, re: vision or color blindness and its varying degree of acceptance, therefore - Be it resolved that the Government of Alberta request this information be clearly stated in all material presented to our students, and that a list of requirements be in the hands of all guidance teachers and principals of Junior and Senior High Schools in Alberta and that the Alberta Department of Public Health see that :111boys and girls in Junior and Senior High School be tested for color blindness. MOTION RE STRUCTURAL CHANGES OF ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTES: That the Structural Changes Committee continue studying the plan to discontinue districts and constituencies and form areas; and after consulting branches and determining areas, submit the proposals to the next Provincial Convention for approval. NOTE: At the next Convention 1971, the delegates rejected the proposal for structural changes. CREATIVE WRITING: Short story Competitions was added. were started STATISTICS OF A.W.I.: 34 Constituencies - 225 branches 30 and a year later - 3300 members. Poetry HISTORY SUPPLEME~T OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE MRS. MARION ALEXANDER Marion Alexander came to Mrs.Alberta from Montana State as a little girl. Her parents homesteaded in the Carman gay area, where she attended Institute meetings with her Mother - they were considered a way of life. Her Mother, Mrs. R. E. Reynolds later served as Director of District 4. Mrs. Gordon Ridley of Taber organized the Lethbridge Northern Busy Bees Girls' Club in 1932 and Marion was a Charter Member. In 1934 she married Carl Alexander of Picture Butte where she joined the Battersea W. 1. The Alexanders moved to Cayley in 1945 and she became the President of the newly organized branch there. Mrs. Alexander has held many offices on branch and constituency levels, and was Director at two different times before she was elected Vice President and then President. She served four years in each capacity. Mrs. Alexander competed her term as President immediately before the start of the Federated Women's Institutes of Canada Convention which was held in Banff, June 1973. She acted as hostess for this important Convention. She has served as Member-at-Large, Junior and Senior Board member for Alberta and is now serving as Director-at-Large of the F.W.I.C. She has a son and three married daughters and a proud grandmother of six. Widowed, she still lives on her farm at Cayley, where she is active in church and community. She is a Director of Rural Education Development Association and the Alberta Association of Continuing Education. She has travelled extensively in North America, Europe as well as Australia and New Zealand. In 1975 she was the winner of the Grace E. Frysinger Fellowship. This award is given by the Woman's National Farm and Garden Association of the United States. She will represent rural Canadian women as she travels and speaks to groups in eleven states for a six week period. This is an educational goodwill project. In a copy of a High School Magazine, "World Affairs", the author said: "The Editor of World Affairs sets an impossible task when he refers to current concern about urban problems, pollution, international strife and other great questions and then asks for an article 31 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE "How do we go about making the situation better? Where do we start"? Quite clearly, everyone must start where he is, with what he has. This maxim, incidentally is the motto of an organization - The Women's Institutes - which has probably had more constructive, unobtrusive influence on this country than any other public or private agency" - end of quote. That is how Mrs. Alexander began the report of her four years as President of the Alberta Women's Institute. Concerns and activities continued to be on-going ones of the organization with new directors and conveners taking the leadership. "Family Living" and "You and the Family" studies were held with films, talks and group discussions. Reporting and evaluation helped to focus on vital issues. In 1969 a joint meeting of the United Farm Women of Alberta and the Alberta Women's Institutes was held in Red Deerwhen Mrs. Philip Matheson, Area Vice President of the Associated Countrywomen of the World was guest speaker. Mrs. Matheson of Prince Edward Island was returning from a Seminar that had been held in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories for the Northern Canada Women's Institute members. It was an excellent opportunity for these two societies of A.C.W.W. to meet in Alberta with Mrs. Matheson and to learn first hand of the work our branches are doing in that area. Problems there are primarily the shortage of adequate housing and alcoholism. National Medical Services became a reality in 1970 - a long standing concern of our organization. Alberta Women's Institutes received a legacy of $534.00 from the estate of Mrs. Alfred Claxton, a member of the Edmonton Women's Institute to further the work of "Home and Country". During Mrs. Alexander's term for the first time Council of Alberta Women's Institutes met with Cabinet Members to discuss mutual concerns, and on several occasions also met with Mrs. Vera Macdonald, Head of the Home Economics Extension Department of Agriculture and some of her staff. A tribute was paid to the cooperation received from the Home Economics Branch at all times. A.W.I. CONVENTION PRESIDENT: - UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTA, EDMONTON JUNE 8-11, 1971 MRS. MARION ALEXANDER BUSINESS: It was approved with one dissenting vote that the Alberta Women's Institutes Council establish a Provincial Office and hire a Secretary Treasurer on a part time basis. This necessitated changing the Constitution from "the executive shall consist of the President, Vice President and Secretary" to 32 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE "the Executive shall consist of the President, 1st Vice President and 2nd Vice President". Voting by secret ballot, the change received the necessary unanimous vote. SPEAKERS: Mrs. E. V. Fulton of Birtle, Manitoba, President of the Federated Women's Institutes of Canada was an honored guest. Her concern was "the Dying Communities". The exodus to urban areas must be stopped she said. A panel of Standing Committee Chairman was moderated by Mrs. Lewis Northey, Balmoral Women's Institute, Red Deer. The Provincial Standing Committee Chairmen had attended for the first time, a meeting in Ottawa with their counterparts from all over Canada and with the National Chairmen. Together they had planned a program for the next term, which the Provincial Chairmen brought before the Convention. The F.W.I.C. Council had hoped that by bringing together the National and Provincial Standing Committee Chairmen it would strengthen the educational function ofInstitutes. The acceptance of such procedure was hoped to have widespread benefits. Mrs. Freda Talbot, instructor from the Edmonton Parks and Recreation Division, demonstrated Macrame which is the Art of tying knots. The Tweedsmuir Competition at the next Federated Convention will be for a tote bag in macrame. Dr. Grant MacEwan, Lieutenant-Governor of Alberta was the Banquet Speaker. He chose as his topic "Women's Roles in the Opening of our Country". He mentioned people familiar to us, among them were Emily Murphy and Nellie McClung, who set goals and worked tirelessly towards them. These people are a source of pride and inspiration to us. Mrs. Nancy Miller, Columnist for the Red Deer Advocate and a member of the Curriculum Committee on Education spoke on the Worth Report on Education. "What is the future of education she asked. Will we help shape it?" RESOLUTIONS: 1. that manufacturers of washing compounds be compelled to label their products with the percentage of chemical content (mainly phosphates which contribute to the pollution of our waters). 2. that the Federal Department of Justice, Ottawa be required to provide harsher penalties for anyone found guilty of trafficking in drugs. 3. that the Provincial Government be requested to take all possible action to control pornography. 4. that A.W.I. urge the Highway Traffic Board, Government of Alberta to immediately implement the Canadian Safety Association Standards re padded bars on back of seats on all school buses purchased before 1971. 33 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE RECOMMENDATIONS: 1. that the Alberta Women's Institutes ask the Federated Women's Institutes of Canada to start a National Project - the furnishing of a house in Fort Edmonton, in honor of Emily Murphy, the first F.W.I.C. President, whenever a house becomes available. 2. that the Creative Writing Competition become an Annual Competition instead of Biennial. NOTICE OF MOTION: that the Standing Committee Chairmen on the Provincial level have the right to be present at Council meetings when matters pertaining to their Convenerships are discussed and also to have a vote on these matters. It was during this term that Stony Plain-Lac Ste Anne Constituency honored Mrs. C. R. Wood by donating a "Girls' Club Public Speaking Trophy" in her name. Another A.W.I. pioneer was honored by the Edmonton-Victoria Sturgeon Constituency. A trophy was purchased to be given annually in honor of Mrs. A. H. Rogers, to the Best Entry in the Provincial Creative Writing Competition. STATISTICS: In 1971 there were 3000 members and 206 Branches. Branches continued to support National and International projects through F.W.I.C. and A.C.W.W. 1. A Landrover was given to a sister organization in Lesotho to help with their work with rural women. 2. Contributions were made to "Save the Sight", a project to help young children in developing countries where blindness is caused by lack of vitamin "A". The President represented A.W.I. at the National Board meetings, as well as at the National Convention in Winnipeg in 1970 where the invitation to host the next National Convention in Alberta was extended and accepted. Before an invitation was extended that the National Convention be held in Alberta, the Executive met with Dr. Ballantyne, Deputy Minister of Agriculture to discuss the situation. He assured them that if the invitation were accepted, the Department would co-operate to the fullest to make this an outstanding occasion. By RECOMMENDATION at the 1971 Provincial Convention, it was agreed that the 1973 A.W.I. Convention be held at Banff, prior to the National Convention and that it be a business session only. Months went into the planning and re-planning on how to manage two Conventions together. The idea was that as many Alberta members as possible should be given an opportunity to attend a National Convention, to meet and share with women across Canada. Of necessity, the Provincial portion was a Mini Convention - just half a day. The financial statement was received, the election of 34 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE officers took place and a Memorial Service was held. Many members were happy to have been given the opportunity of attending part or all of the F.W.I.C. Convention. New friendships were made, viewpoints exchanged and horizons broadened. Note must be made of the great support, financial and otherwise that our organization received from the Government, other agencies and individuals to make this endeavor the success it was. Even the weather was ideal - a fall of snow the first morning which was soon gone, and the rest of the week warm, pleasant and everyone will remember. beautiful - something A.W.I. CONVENTION - ERIC HARVEY THEATRE, BANFF JUNE 18, 1973 PRESIDENT: MRS. MARION ALEXANDER The 1973 Convention was of necessity only a half day and only urgent business was dealt with. A short Memorial Service was held following the official opening. Mrs. Merlin (Ruby) Shields, Editor of Home and Country for eight years resigned and Mrs. T. C. Heninger of Cardston was appointed as the new Editor. All resolutions and Notice of Motions were tabled until the next Convention to be held in 1974. A Creative Writing Award Plaque was presented by the Edmonton- Victoria-Sturgeon Constituency to honor Mrs. A. H. Rogers. Mrs. Alexander accepted this plaque and Mrs. Grace Mensinger of Grand Prairie was the first winner of the award. Mrs. Rogers unable to be present sent her greetings to the Convention. Mrs. J. T. Morrisroe was elected to the office of President by acclamation. Mrs. Melvin Ballhorn was elected 1st Vice President and Mrs. Harold Lefsrud 2nd Vice President. FEDERATED CONVENTION: The Federated Convention followed the Provincial Session and many of the Alberta delegates were able to attend at least for one day. The theme "For Home and Country" unfolded under the chairmanship of Mrs. Marion Fulton, F.W.I.C. President. One of the highlights of the Federated Convention was "Alberta Day" when delegates and visitors were taken via bus to view Lake Louise, Emerald Lake and Yoho Valley. The last night all enjoyed a pit barbecue at the Indian grounds with music, singing and dancing. The Banquet Speaker was Dr. Hugh Horner, Alberta's Deputy Premier and Minister of Agriculture who proudly stated Alberta's position in the family of Canada. At the Banquet, Mrs. Ethel Morrisroe, newly elected President of A.W.I. paid tribute to the R.C.M.P. who were celebrating their Centennial Year. Two red-coated 35 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE R.C.M.P. Officers were guests. Mrs. Morrisroe, with facts and humor, related the history of this renowned Force and compared its work to that of our own Institutes - working for "Home and Country" . The keynote speaker of the Convention was Mrs. Edna Clark, Policy and Liason Secretariat, Alberta Department of Agriculture. She spoke on the Changing Roles of Women and the many challenges facing them which can be met with education, common sense and working together. The value of such a Convention is that Alberta women were able to meet women from all the other Provinces. One highlight on the program was "The Provinces Present" when programs from across Canada were exchanged. For the session on A.C.W.W. many of the women came dressed in ethnic costumes. This portion of the program opened yet another phase of involvement for Women's Institute members. 36 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE MRS. JAMES T. (ETHEL) MORRISROE Ethel Morrisroe was born, raised and schooled in the Ridgewood District, west of Penhold and attended High School in Red Deer. She took teacher training at Camrose Normal School and taught in the Red Deer area for five years before her marriage to James Morrisroe. They raised a family of three children, a son and two daughters. Their farm home was on the outskirts of Red Deer for a number of years but the city grew and enveloped their land to form "Morrisroe Subdivision". They now reside three miles east of Red Deer. Ethel joined the Ridgewood Women's Institute in 1947 and the Clearview Branch in 1949. She has held offices at all levels including /. Branch President, Red Deer Centre Constituency Convener, District Director and Vice President, each for a term offour years. In 1973 she was elected Provincial President. She served a two year term but was unable to continue for another term as President. She has attended four Federated Conventions as well as four A.C.W.W. Conferences. In October 1974 she was the leader of the Alberta delegation to the A.C.W.W. Conference in Perth, Australia. Besides her duties as President and a busy farmer's wife she has served on the Red Deer Exhibition Board, Twilight Lodge Associates, the local Board of the Y.W.C.A. and is a member of the local Lioness Club. In recognition of "Inter national Women's Year 1975" she was honored to be chosen the first woman to officially open the Red Deer Exhibition as well as leading the parade on opening day. She considers this honor as one of the highlights of her life. Her leisure time is filled with reading and pursuing her favorite hobby, needlework. Her needlework efforts were rewarded when her originally designed colored embroidered teacloth won first prize in the Provincial Salada Tea Competitions. Her recreational interests include curling and bridge when time permits. TERM OF OFFICE-1973-1975 Mrs. Morrisroe's slogan for her term is "Action-Involvment-Growth". She feels that through "Action and Involvement" on current issues affecting members as individuals and voicing opin37 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE ions through presentations of briefs, completing questionaires and conducting surveys as well as participation in workshops and seminars comes growth in knowledge and hopefully increased membership. She is enthusiastic about the work that can be done as a follow up to Canada's Nutrition Survey thus "Nutrition Alberta" is her idea for an educational program to help Albertans to better health. Her aim is to have the Institutes continue as a voluntary organization for the purpose they were originally organized i.e. to educate the homemakers and to provide a community service. A.W.I. Projects during her term included: "The Story of A.W.I." to be updated from 1955 to 1975 as a 65th Anniversary Project. "Duties and Directives Booklet" to be compiled as a source of reference to acquaint newly elected officers as to their duties as well as directives related to their respective offices. "Standing Committee Chairmen" to become more actively involved in planning and directing study programs for Institute members. Toward this end "Leadership and Learning Workshops" were conducted during the annual Council meetings in January when Specialists from the.Home Economics Department of Extension outlined programs available to organizations through their Department. The "Parliamentary Procedure Workshop" to assist Officers in conducting Institute business in a proper manner at their Conferences included Motions, Nominations, Elections, Resolutions, etc. Standing Committee Chairmen were given the opportunity to suggest topics for study and submit ideas on how to promote more interesting educational programs. At the 1974 Workshop Mrs. J. Bielish, Chairman of Northern Canada Women's Institutes brought native women to Edmonton. They attended mainly as observers but also to exchange ideas. Mrs. Morrisroe attended an Agricultural Executive meeting of the Department of Agriculture and voiced her concersn re: the limitations placed on judging of A.W.I. handicrafts by Home Economists. She also stressed the need for more government sponsored programs for volunteers and suggested that the government contact Institutes when a survey was required or a representative was needed on an advisory committee. Food Price questionnaires were circulated in the Constituencies to be completed and returned to the Federated Conveners. Also an opinion was requested and mailed re "Canada's Future Immigration Policy" . Liz Spanier was sponsored to a Drama Workshop in Red Deer. It is hoped that through this sponsorship another avenue may be open to members. Mrs. Morrisroe accepted the Merit Award presented by the Mental Health Association in Edmonton on behalf of A.W.I. for the 38 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE work they had done throughout the years for the mentally ill with special mention for their participation in the "Light Up For Mental Health" candle sale. Mrs. Morrisroe presented the annual award of$50.00 at the Olds College Graduation ceremonies to the student most proficient in the Secretarial Arts. A similar award is presented annually to each of the Colleges at Vermilion and Fairview. She was guest speaker at the annual Girl's Club Conventions at Olds and commends the dedicated leaders and supervisors for the instruction they give the girls in sewing, handicraft, creative writing and public speaking. She feels it most important that a President endeavors to attend as many Constituency Conferences as possible. Besides being an enjoyable experience it gives her an opportunity to meet the members and to learn what is being done in the various areas. The highlights during her term of office were the $25,000.00 Grant received from the Provincial Government and the establishment of a Provincial Office. In January 1975 the Executive accompanied by Mrs. J. Bielish interviewed Dr. H. Horner, Minister of Agriculture to request a Grant to assist our Organization with its educational programs. In March 1975 word was received that a Grant of $25,000.00 was given to A.W.I. The Government announcement stated the major purpose of the Grant was to assist in further developing the Leadership this pioneer organization exerts through its two hundred Branches and three thousand members. It stated that the correspondence program in Nutrition currently featured by A. W.I. emphasizes a priority item of the Government. The Grant was given in recognition of the dedication of A.W.I. to the women and families of rural Alberta and is a mark of confidence in their ability to use leadership and innovation to develop better ways to organize and involve rural families in planning their fl.ltnre. In April 1975 it was a momentous occasion when the five year lease for the Provincial Office was signed by Mrs. J. Morrisroe, President and Mrs. G. McMillan, Secretary Treasurer of A.W.I. Office space was acquired at #201 7203 - 101 Avenue, Edmonton at a monthly rental of $250.00 to include rent, heat and one stall for parking. A.W.I. pays the telephone, electricity and janitor service. A.W.I. is indebted to Mr. and Mrs. G. McMillan for their many hours of work in readying the office for occupancy. Mrs. Ruby Ritchie, the new Secretary Treasurer was to commence duties August 1st, 1975 at a salary of $450.00 with a car allowance of $25.00. Office hours were to be from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 and 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Wednesdays will be kept for meetings if necessary. A.W.I. seraiette were ordered and are available for special Institute functions. Special Anniversary Certificates were made up for Branches celebrating their 25th and 60th Anniversaries. Memorial Cards are also available. Branches celebrating their 50th Anniversaries included: Lone 39 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE Pine; Veteran; Grande Prairie; Stettler; Rugby; Glendale; Sylvan Lake; Majestic Farrell. Branches celebrating their 60th Anniversaries include: Clearview; Vermilion; Mountain View; Winterburn; D.E.L. and Conjuring Creek. A new Branch "Antelope Ridge" at Magrath was organized with fourteen members. Several A.W.I. Girl's Clubs were organized during the two year term. Mrs. Morrisroe has attended the F.W.I.C. Board meetings in Ottawa as Senior Board Member for A.W.I. The Project for A.W.I.1975 was "Nutrition Education" with a series of lessons compiled by the Nutrition Specialist and mailed to the Branches for study. The culmination was a Poster Competition limited to Constituencies. A special function attended was the opening of the R.C.M.P. Centennial Senior Citizen's Recreation Centre in St. Albert. The St. Albert Women's Institute had received a Grant of $20,000.00 from the Centennial fund and through the efforts of its members erected the building. Mrs. Morrisroe on behalf of A.W.I. presented a painting to be hung in the building. A short term project was adopted by A.W.I. when an appeal was made through UNICEF requesting donations for a "Pump for an Ethiopian Village". $65.00 would buy a pump which would provide enough water for a village. An appeal for donations was made with good response and in a short time $425.00 was collected and mailed to headquarters. This was enough to buy at least six pumps. ASSOCIATED COUNTRY WOMEN OF THE WORLD (ACWW): In 1974 Mrs. Morrisroe as leader of the Alberta Women's Institutes delegation numbering fourteen attended the 14th Triennial Conference in Perth, Australia. Of this number six carried a vote. The Conference theme was "A World to Share" and over 1500 delegates attended. The ACWW project is a continuation of "Save the Sight" campaign along with a trust fund set up for "Leadership and Nutrition Education". The next Conference is to be held in Kenya, Africa in 1977. Members are reminded that ACWW Contributing Membership is increased to two pounds sterling and that the subscription to the "Country-woman" is one pound sterling. "Pennies for Friendship" donations from A.W.I. sent to ACWW for the two year term totalled $1300.00. Mrs. Morrisroe feels her work as President has been challenging, interesting, time consuming yet rewarding. She is satisfied that the slogan for her term has been partially fulfilled. There has definitely been action and involvement and there has been a marked increase in membership though the growth is offset by some loss due to disbandin~ of Branches. Her tireless efforts, her good humor, patience and mterest to involve Institutes in worthwhile endeavors will help carry A.W.I. into another era. 40 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA 65th ANNIVERSARY CONVENTION JUNE 3-6, 1974 THEME: "YESTERDAY WOMEN'S INSTITUTE OLDS COLLEGE -TODAY-TOMORROW" It was a Convention of festive celebrations, reminiscing, good fellowship, informative discussions, active participation and excellent speakers. An informal atmosphere was maintained throughout the day. All enjoyed the cafeteria style meals and the spacious and beautiful college grounds. The Past Presidents who attended included: Mrs. A. B. McGorman, Penhold (1949-1953); Mrs. T. H. Howes, Millet (1955-1959); Mrs. W. R. Ford, Coutts (1959-1961); Mrs. M. G. Roberts, Drumheller (1961-1965); Mrs. J. Bielish, Warspite (1965-1969); Mrs. C. Alexander, Cayley (1969-1973). It was disappointing that Mrs. J. P. Ferguson, Trochu (1938-1937) and Mrs. W. M. Stewart, Peace River (1937-1941) and Mrs. S. Lefsrud, Viking (1953-1955) were unable to attend. Of the fifteen Past Presidents who have served during the sixty-five years six are deceased. The Past Presidents attending were introduced during the afternoon session of the first day. They were honored guests at the banquet and each was presented with a corsage. Following the banquet each gave the highlights of her term. A skit "65 Years in Review" was a highlight of the evening program. It portrayed history in music, dance, song and action in eras from 1909-1974 to include the formative years, the roaring twenties, the depressing thirties, the war years, the prosperous years and through the centennial year up to the present time, the seventies. Activities, accomplishments and projects were mentioned. Mrs. Lynne Fair and Mrs. Celia Taylor sang songs of each era with Mrs. Mary Mercer accompanying at the piano. Because 1974 is the Centennial of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police in Alberta, tribute to them was given by Mrs. J. T. Morrisroe and accepted by Cpl. W. M. Patzwold of the Olds Detachment. A 65th Anniversary souvenir plate designed by Mrs. J. Bielish was sold at the Convention. It proved a popular sales item. The fifty dozen ordered were soon sold and more were ordered. In all 1400 were sold. An excellent display of handicraft was enjoyed by the delegates. Mrs. J. Bielish, Chairman of Northern Canada Women's Institutes with the help of slides showed the work of our Women's Institute members in the North. Presentation of Handicraft, Quilt and Creative Writing awards proved an exciting time for the recipients. A quilt donated by the Kinniburgh Branch to be raffled netted $864.00. The money from the ticket sales was donated to the Provincial Office Fund. The Memorial Service in remembrance of departed members was most impressive. 41 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE SPEAKERS: MR. CAL BRANDLEY: Legal Specialist with the Provincial Department of Agriculture spoke on the "Legal Rights of Women". He said Alberta women are fortunate they have many favorable legal rights by law. In some areas they have greater help and protection than men but in other areas they are discriminated against. It is in these areas women should study and become involved to make the necessary changes. This speaker was well received because of the present Women's Institute concern re "The Matrimonial Property Law" (particularly with the present unfair disposal of property in cases of separation and divorce). He also explained the differences between joint tenants and tenants in common. He advised women to keep informed about laws affecting them. MRS. JANICE LAUMAN: Regional Food and Nutritional Specialist with the Department of Agriculture. In her presentation "Don't Eat Your Heart Out" she used facts and figures from the recently conducted "Nutrition Canada Survey". The surveys showed that Canadians as a nation are overweight, under nourished and unfit. Pressures and stress factors are increasing due to women becoming more involved. She urged Nutrition and Physical Fitness Workshops at community level. The Extension Department offered their assistance in this worthwhile project. Her talk was of general interest since it served as an ideal introduction for the planned study program in "Nutrition Alberta". Mrs. W. Sparrow, A.W.I. Girl's Club Supervisor reported twenty-three active Clubs of girls between the ages of six and seventeen years who work on the five point program. Her report concluded with a display of crafts made during the year. The "Pennies for Friendship" march netted $128.00. "DISTRICT DIRECTORS DISCOURSE": This showed area interest in Preventative Social Services; a Retreat for Women; the compiling of Community Histories; more organized workshops and increased publicity of Institute achievements. One Director urged that more Institutes support an adopted Foster Child. Another Director favored the organizing of a Homemaker Service for the Community, e.g. Home Care in case of illness. STANDING COMMITEE CONVENERS: They urged that members study the Canada Nutrition Survey; be informed on Laws affecting Women; be aware ofrules and regulations re the use of insecticides, pesticides and herbicides; be more environment conscious. One Convener suggested a study of Au42 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE stralia since the 1974 Conference was to be held there. Institute members were urged to correspond with Alberta's twin province-N ewfoundland. RESOLUTIONS: Passed. Re: GOVERNMENT GRANTS: That A.W.I. Executive take steps to obtain Provincial Grants to assist the organization in carrying out its aims and objectives. Re: OBSENITIES: That A.W.I. request the Attorney General of the Province of Alberta to impose stricter censorship on all programs, whether they are on radio, television, shown in theatres or live productions. Re: JUDGING OF CRAFTS: That A.W.I. Contact Mrs. Vera Macdonald, Head of Home Economics Branch, Department of Agriculture requesting that judging services by the Home Economists be retained and that each Branch write requesting that these services of the Home Economists be retained. Re: RAIL ABANDONMENT: That A.W.I. request the Alberta and Federal Governments review proposals of rail line abandonment and to press for better services for movement of farm products and for passenger service in southern Alberta. Re: MATRIMONIAL PROPERTY LAWS: That A.W.I. request the Federal and Provincial Governments to amend the Marriage Laws so that on the dissolution of a marriage, either by legal separation or by divorce, the assets accumulated during that marriage be divided equally between husband and wife. A.W.I. CONVENTION AT OLDS COLLEGE CONVENTION THEME-"INTERNATIONAL "EQUALITY, DEVELOPMENT, JUNE 9-12, 1975 WOMEN'S YEAR" PEACE" The Convention was preceded by a "Leadership Workshop" for all Executive Officiers, Directors, Standing Committee Conveners and Constitutency Conveners. A portion of the Government Grant financed this Workshop. Mr. H. R. Simmermon, Rural Development was in charge of the Workshop "Developing Progress to Meet Present Community Needs." Guidelines were given as to what constituted a good educational program to be implemented by Branch Institutes in rural areas. At the opening ceremonies remarks by the President, Mrs. J. T. Morrisroe related to "International Women's Year: which was an innovation of the United Nations. She explained the IWY symbol as that of a stylized dove representing "Peace". Included in the symbol is the equality sign and the biological symbol for woman i.e. a circle and a cross. It is a time to recognize the contributions made to society by women in the past. 1975 is the chosen year to inspire women to achieve and develop themselves to their fullest potential. 43 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE It is a time for dynamic action and to promote equality but she warned, et quote, Flora McDonald: "We do not want to see Women's Rights" advanced to the detriment of the role of Mother and Housewife since that role is still the key to our Society today". Honored guest attending the Convention was Mrs. J. McLean, Nova Scotia, the President of the Federated Women's Institutes of Canada. CONVENTION SPEAKERS INCLUDED: Mary Lou Armstrong, representing the Library Action Committee. She expressed a need for improved Library Services in Alberta, stating that twenty five percent ofthe population have no access to a library and that some schools do not have any libraries. She requested that A.W.I. write Mr. Horst Schmidt, Provincial Minister in charge of Libraries, expressing our support for improved library services. Honorable Helen Hunley, banquet guest speaker spoke about the "Role of Voluntary Organizations in today's Society": She expressed a continuing need for organizations of volunteers such as the Women's Institutes. She stated there is a trend in evidence today that Government~ will be expected to do some funding for the volunteer organizations in the future. Mrs. J. McLean, F.W.I.C. President commended the provinces across Canada for the work each is doing in its particular area and stressed that Institute members have an important role to play now and in the future. She commented that women are opinion builders with power to bring about changes by standing together demanding action. She urged women to support women running for political offices because of their capabilities. She urged that we be aware of laws affecting women and stressed that responsibility goes hand in hand with rights and that we should let the World know there are still women who believe in a strong society. Mrs. Martha Bielish, Chairman of the Northern Canada Women's Institutes spoke about the Institutes in the North (now diminished to only three, two Branches in the North West Territories and one in the Yukon). She stated that the native people are uniting trying to get their land claims settled while the women are getting involved in obtaining their rights and are thus too busy to be interested in homemaking-thus the reason for the fewer Institutes in the North. Mrs. Morrisroe expressed her appreciation of being given the opportunity to represent A.W.I. at the ACWW Conference in Perth, Australia, October 8-18, 1974. She gave a short commentary about what transpired at the Conference and showed slides taken at the Conference and of her travels throughout Australia and New Zealand following the Conference. There were 604 articles on display in the Handicraft rooms. "Pennies for Friendship" netted $175.37. 44 HISTORY Alberta SUPPLEMENT Women's Institutes OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE Business: PROVINCIAL OFFICE: Mrs. Morrisroe outlined the progress of the Office from the time it was first set up in 1971 with the office in the Secretary Treasurer's home during the transition period. Office space was leased in April of 1975. Mrs. Ruby Ritchie was hired as Secretary Treasurer. Due to the untiring efforts of Mr. and Mrs. G. McMillan the office was ready for occupancy just prior to the Convention. At last a long time dream has become a reality. A Provincial Office has been established for the first time out of the Secretary's home. GOVERNMENT GRANT: Delegates were told of the $25,000.00 Grant given to A.W.I. to finance educational programs throughout the rural areas. To date part of the Grant has been used to mail the Nutrition lessons to the Branches, to finance the Leadership Workshop preceding the Alberta Women's Week July 21-25 at Olds College. Delegates divided into discussion groups to suggest ideas for future programs that would benefit the whole community rather than just Institute members. Mrs. C. Alexander was congratulated on her appointment as Canada's "Frysinger Fellowship" representative to visit the U.S.A. for a month in September to learn about the aims and objectives of another ACWW Constituent Society. Mrs. Kay Rockwell, the U.S.A. exchange will visit Canada to learn about our ACWW Societies. Mrs. Martha Bielish was the recipient of a special award in recognition of IWY. She was presented with "Woman of the Year Award", a special engraved plaque for her contributions to A.W.I. through the years. The culmination of the Nutrition Study was a Poster Competition with only Constituencies competing. The response was gratifying when 30 out of 33 Constituencies participated. The colorful posters on display at the Convention portrayed an idea learned in Nutrition. Mrs. J. Woodrow, Lacombe Women's Institute was presented with a gift for achieving a record of twenty eight years perfect attendance in her Branch. Four hundred members and representatives attended the evening banquet. The Convention concluded with the outgoing President installing the new Executive. Gifts were presented to the retiring Officers. RESOLUTIONS: Passed. That a term of office for elected officers would be three years. That Provincial Conventions would be held annually. (necessitating changes in the Constitution) That capital punishment be carried out according to the laws of Canada. That A.W.I. support the Provincial Agriculture Soils from 45 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE further encroachment by urban housing and industrial expansion. That A.W.I. request that the selling of junk foods be prohibited in all schools be it vending machine or school stores. That such items as pop, chocolate bars, potato chips, etc. be replaced by more nutritive foods such as milk, cheese, raisins, fresh fruit, peanuts and fruit juices. That A.W.I. make representation to Governor-in-Council to request that the Canada Pension Plan be amended so that Housewives may make contributions to the Pension Fund and thus be entitled to the benefits thereunder. Due to an increase in crime and violence in our society and pornography off the air in prime time. That a committee be appointed to study and make recommendations for some form of recognition for members over eighty years of age who have given long service. Due to lack of adequate farm labor thus necessitating the farmer's wives to assist in the farm operation and since $1,492.00 only is allowed for income tax reduction be it resolved that legislation be passed whereby both spouses of the farming operation have the option to enter into a partnership and be treated as such under the Income Tax Act. 46 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE OFFICERS " President Vice President Secretary Treasurer Directors Mrs. , Mrs. Mrs. Mrs. ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE 1955 - 1957 T. H. Howes, Millet W. R. Ford, Coutts R. W. Prendergast, Red Deer L. D. Smith, Penhold , Mrs. D. S. Hayden, High Prairie Mrs. Joseph Bielish, Warspite Mrs. J. R. Graham, Ponoka Mrs. C. L. Alexander, Cayley Mrs. M. G. Roberts, Drumheller OFFICERS President Vice President Secretary Treasurer Directors , , Mrs. T. H. Howes, Millet Mrs. W. R. Ford, Coutts Mrs. J. Hannah, Drumheller , Mrs. H. Marshall, Edmonton Mrs. N. Hnatiuk, Grande Prairie Mrs. J. Bielish, Warspite Mrs. John Richards, Red Deer Mrs. C. L. Alexander, Cayley Mrs. M. G. Roberts, Drumheller OFFICERS President Vice President Secretary , Mrs. , H. Marshall, Edmonton Mrs. N. Hnatiuk, Grande Prairie Mrs. S. E. Thorne, Fort Saskatchewan Mrs. John Richards, Red Deer Mrs. H. Haney, Picture Butte Mrs. G. S. Wilson, Drumheller OFFICERS President Vice President Secretary Treasurer Directors 1959 - 1961 , Mrs. W. R. Ford, Coutts Mrs. M. G. Roberts, Drumheller Mrs. James Richards, Red Deer Treasurer Directors 1957 - 1959 '''''''''''''' , 1961 - 1963 , Mrs. M. G. Roberts, Drumheller Mrs. John Richards, Red Deer Mrs. James Richards, Red Deer , Mrs. Harry Marshall, Edmonton Mrs. F. Anthony, Fairview Mrs. S. E. Thorne, Fort Saskatchewan Mrs. C. A. Quail, Round Hill Mrs. C. L. Alexander, Cayley Mrs. G. S. Wilson, Drumheller 47 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE OFFICERS President Vice President Secretary Treasurer Directors WOMEN'S INSTITUTE 1963 -1965 , Mrs. M. G. Roberts, Drumheller Mrs. J. Bielish, Warspite Mrs. R. A. Leadley, Edmonton Mrs. H. Marshall, Edmonton Mrs. F. Anthony, Fairview Mrs. R. J. Whitson, Mannville Mrs. C. A. Quail, Round Hill Mrs. Gerald Newman, Blackie Mrs. Alex Robertson, Carstairs OFFICERS President Vice President Secretary Treasurer Directors ALBERTA 1965 - 1967 Mrs. J. Bielish, Warpsite ".. Mrs. Carl Alexander, Cayley Mrs. C. A. Quail, Round Hill Mrs. George McMillan, Edmonton Mrs. H. Hnatiuk, Grande Prairie Mrs. R. J. Whitson, Edmonton Mrs. J. T. Morrisroe, Red Deer Mrs. Gerald Newman, Blackie Mrs. J. H. Hosegood, Didsbury OFFICERS President """,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, Vice President Secretary Treasurer , Directors Mrs. J. Bielish, Warspite Mrs. Carl Alexander, Cayley Mrs. Chester Oxtoby, Olds Mrs. George McMillan, Edmonton Mrs. H. Hnatiuk, Grande Prairie Mrs. Harold Lefsrud, Viking Mrs. J. T. Morrisroe, Red Deer Mrs. J. Holland, Lethbridge Mrs. J. H. Hosegood, Didsbury OFFICERS President , Vice President ." Secretary Treasurer Directors ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, 1967 - 1969 1969 - 1971 Mrs. C. L. Alexander, Cayley Mrs. J. T. Morrisroe, Red Deer Mrs. Chester Oxtoby, Olds Mrs. George McMillan, Edmonton Mrs. Mrs. Mrs. Mrs. Mrs. H. Tattrie, Brownvale Harold Lefsrud, Viking Harold Hillaby, Camrose J. Holland, Lethbridge Dave Silver, Huxley 48 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE OFFICERS ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE 1971 - 1973 Mrs. C. L. Alexander, Cayley President """"""""'"'''' Vice President Mrs. J. T. Morrisroe, Red Deer Vice President Mrs. R. J. Whitson, Edmonton Secretary-Treasurer ... Mrs. George McMillan, Edmonton Directors Mrs. Mrs. Mrs. Mrs. Mrs. Wm. Plaizier, Peace River Vera Holt, Sangudo Harold Hillaby, Camrose Gordon Habberfield, Langdon Dave Silver, Huxley OFFICERS President ""'"'''''''''''''''' 1st Vice President 2nd Vice President Secretary-Treasurer Directors 1973 - 1975 Mrs. J. T. Morriseroe, Mrs. Melvin Ballhorn, Mrs. Harold Lefsrud, Red Deer Wetaskiwin Edmonton ... Mrs. George McMillan, Edmonton Mrs. Wm. Plaizier, Peace River Mrs. V. Holt, Sangudo Mrs. V. Toffelmire, Veteran Mrs. G. C. Habberfield, Langdon Mrs. H. Richardson, Didsbury 49 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S ALBERTA INSTITUTES 1955 - 1974 WOMEN'S INSTITUTE GIRLS' CLUBS he story of the Alberta Women's Institutes (1909-1955), written by Mrs. Cornelia Wood, included a section on A.W.I. Girls' Clubs T from the time the first Club was organized in 1918 up to and includingthe 34th annual Convention held atOlds in July 1954. Space does not permit announcement of all competition winners at each Convention, however all are recorded in the A.W.I. Report Book published biennially. A.W.I. has a responsibility to the Girls' Clubs because it was through them it was created. It is their responsibility to support them financially as well as give moral support and show interest in them by providing leadership and attending Conferences and Achievement Days. Voluntary contributions from Institute Branches to the Girls' Club Fund assist the girls to attend Conventions who would otherwise be unable to attend. For years the Girls' Club received a grant of$150.00 from A.W.I. plus $50.00 for the printing ofthe Convention Report. Today A.W.I. gives them a $500.00 grant annually, this amount to include the printing of the Report Book. Membership was .25~ for years but is now .50~ per member. Age of members range from six years to eighteen years, accepting all nationalities and religious denominations. The A.W.I. Girls' Club Supervisor is appointed by A.W.I. and she chooses her own assistant. It is their duty to plan the Con vention and mail Newsletters regularly. The Girls' Club President is elected annually at the Convention. The Secretary for the Convention is the one who sends in the best Club Secretary's reports during the year. She will have all expenses paid to the Convention at Olds. The Club uniform is a white blouse for "Purity" and the green skirt symbolizes "Loyalty". The Club Crest is worn on the left shoulder. At one time a green and white beanie was worn but it is no longer a part of the uniform. They have Club spoons and pins. The Club colors are white and green. Scholarships for years included a $50.00 Scholarship awarded to a member or a former member of the Club toward her University Education. (First winner of this award was Audrey Chaba, Redwater, who entered the Fall Term to take Home Economics). A $75.00 Alberta Wheat Pool Scholarship was awarded to a girl who is planning on entering one of the three Colleges in the Province. CLUB PROGRAM: The Club's five point Program includes a study of Social Services, Health, Citizenship, Agrilculture and Home Economics with sessions on Handicraft and Public Speaking, as well as additional activities for girls interested in cultural pursuits. Club meetings include demonstrations, sewing, crafts, practice public speaking, scrap book making, short story and poetry writing. Members learn how to conduct a meeting, how to become good hostesses and how to 50 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE conduct themselves in public. They have seasonal parties, hikes and Mother and Daughter banquets. At the end of the year they have Achievement Days to which the Mothers are invited. Throughout the year merits are given each member for attendance, appearance, behaviour, committee work and Club activities. The two girls with the highest merits at the end of June have earned the privilege of attending the Convention at OIds. Supervisors of individual Clubs are given merit awards at the Convention for "Years of Service". They are presented with Certificates on which are designated the number of years of service. CONVENTION: The Conventions are held at the Olds College annually the first part of July. The Convention is a Leadership and Learning session with participation in competitions and sports as well as good fellowship. They "Learn to do By Doing". They learn to model and perform in public with confidence, i.e. a former public speaking winner, a Japanese girl has taken journalism and is now writing for papers in the East. The usual sequence of events include a tour of the grounds and the greenhouses on arrival with a "Get Acquainted Party" in the evening. Following the official opening the group is divided into classes to include instruction in Deportment, Nursing, Cooking, Handicraft, Horticulture, Leadership, Fashion Show, etc. by volunteer instructors. The girls compete for several awards. Marks are given for everyone who makes an attempt or endeavor to participate in all projects. Competitions include, sports (Jumps, Races, Games); Public Speaking (judged and followed by comments and constructive criticism); Short Stories and Poetry (judged on neatness and creative ability); Room inspection (judged on neatness, cleanliness and bedmaking with both girls and Supervisors participating); Secretary Scholarship (direction is given on the structure of a good report); Handicraft (the Club receiving the most points in handicraft); Art (choice of any subject or media, stress originality); Proficiency (for Club obtaining the highest overall points); Program Books (a calendar of meetings held through the year) and Scrap Books or Posters on the five point program. The winners are presented the awards following the banquet. FASHION PARADE: The girls model the clothes made in the Club during the year, and this is followed by a formal tea with members of the cooking class serving sandwiches and cookies. The afternoon Sports Competition is followed by a picnic supper. The evening entertainment may be an Amateur Hour or a Masquerade Party. Awards for the Masquerade were given to the best National, Original, Comic, Novel and Group costumes. (A most interesting party was when each represented a Story Book Character). 51 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE The banquet concludes the Convention. Following the banquet the awards and presentations are made. The evening usually concludes with a party or Amateur Hour. The Fashion Parade and the Amateur Hour are not judged. The Five Point Program is also displayed but not judged. A.W.I. GIRLS' CLUBS SCHOLARSHIPS: AWARDS: Scholarship - The Secretary who sends in the best secretary reports will have all expenses paid to the W.I.G.C. Convention at aIds where she will act as Convention Secretary. Beginning in 1967, a silver cup donated by Toby Penner, Shell Oil Agent, Didsbury is for the annual competition of the Club Secretaries. 1. Secretary TROPHIES: 1. Proficiency Trophy - This trophy was donated by Radio Station CFCN, Calgary and is awarded to the W.I.G. Club with the highest number of points accumulated at the W.I.G.C. Convention at Olds. 2. Handicraft Cup - Donated by Hilite Printing and awarded to the Club with the highest average of points on handicraft brought to aids. 3. Sports Trophy - Was presented to the W.I.G.C. by Judge Emily Murphy and is awarded to the Club with the highest points in the sports competition. 4. Public Speaking Trophies - There are three classes in Public Speaking, Junior receive a silver cup donated by CFCN; Intermediate a trophy donated by Peter Nitz, Jeweller of Lethbridge; Senior is a large trophy and an individual trophy donated by Calgary Power. The large Senior trophy is competed for annually. The Junior and Intermediate trophies are kept for one year by the winner and passed on the next year. by 5. Public Speaking Trophy (Cornelia R. Wood) - presented Stony Plain-Lac Ste. Anne A.W. I. Constituency to public speaker with the highest percentage out of the three classes. 6. Short Story - the original trophy was donated by Mrs. J. A. Rodell and is awarded to the girl who writes the best original story, preferably in a Canadian setting. 7. Poetry - Anna Erickson Trophy - donated by Anna Erickson of Glendon to be awarded to the writer of the overall winning poem. 8. Art Trophy - donated by Earl Philips ofDidsbury to be awarded to the overall winner. PRIZES: 1. Spoons better. will be given to all contestants 52 with a mark of nine or HISTORY SUPPLEMENT 2. Room prizes supervisors Convention. OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE - a small prize is to be given to the girls and who have kept their rooms the neatest during the A.W.I. GIRLS' CLUB CONVENTIONS 1955 - 1974 1955 1956 1957 1958 Supervisor, Mrs. L. D. Handley with Assistant, Mrs. B. Nolan. Mrs. Handley has the honor of being the first Provincial Supervisor of A.W.I. Girls' Clubs who was a former Girls' Club member. President, Peggy Gira, Brownvale Secretary, Irene Hoover, Worsley One hundred and eighty-two members and Supervisors attended representing forty-two clubs. Theme Song: Convention Chimes Club Slogan: "Kindly Speech Maketh Many Friends". Mr. Birdsall, Principal ofOlds School of Agriculture welcomed the group. Mrs. T. H. Howes, A.W.I. President spoke on the benefits of being a girls' club member and on Civil Defense, their study topic. Miss Clare Gardner of the Millet Mermaids won the A.W.I.G.C. University Scholarship. The Proficiency Trophy was won by the Sundial Sunbeams. Supervisor, Mrs. K. Swanson President, Maureen English, Eagle Hill One hundred and forty-two Club members and Supervisors attended. Mrs. T. Howes spoke about UNICEF and the Halloween Project which the girls support. She also spoke about Marjorie Golinski, a blind deafmute from Alberta who was attending a school in Nova Scotia. The girls send gifts of money and clothing to their adopted friend. The Proficiency Trophy was won by Warner Jolly Janes. The Handicraft Cup went to the Bancroft Buttercups. One hundred and twenty-five members attended this Convention. Miss Kremer showed slides and spoke on Civil Defense. Mrs. W. Ford, A.W.I. Vice President from Coutts, spoke about the United Nations. The Proficiency Trophy and the Handicraft Cup were won by the Bancroft Buttercups. Supervisor, Mrs. H. Odland, Enchant with Assistant, Mrs. E. Thurlow. President, Sheila Sterns, Carstairs Theme was "Smiles" while the Slogan was "Frowns are Like Thorns and Smiles are Like Roses". 53 HISTORY 1959 1960 1961 1962 SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE Mr. Scott gave a talk on photography and showed films on "Three Bruins Go Camping". Miss Cram, Deportment teacher gave a talk on "Banquet Etiquette" . The Proficiency Trophy was won by the Bancroft Buttercups. There was an attendance of one hundred and seven representing thirty-nine Clu bs with an overall membership of seven hundred. The Theme Song "Let the Sun Shine In" while the Slogan was "There's a Limit to our Achievements but None to our Attempt". The CFCN Proficiency Trophy went to the Bancroft Buttercups. Eileen Harper of the Melody Maids won the Secretary's award. There was an attendance of one hundred and nine girls and thirty Supervisors and Helga Firstenworth was the President. Theme Song "High Hopes" and the Slogan, "Reach High, There's Plenty of Room". Mrs. S. Thorne, District 2 Director spoke on behalf of A.W.I. Mrs. Durr gave a very interesting talk on "Beauty Culture" and demonstrated different hair styles. Members viewed the UNICEF Film by Danny Kaye. The Secretary's Scholarship was won by Donna Cipperley of the Lone Pine Orioles. The Proficiency Trophy and the Handicraft Cup also went to the Lone Pine Orioles. President, Bernice Gordeyko Theme "Spread a Little Sunshine" with the Slogan "Every Day is a New Beginning". The Supervisors both stress "What you put into your work is what you get out of it". Mrs. M. G. Roberts, A.W.I. President, spoke and outlined the history of the A.W.I. Girls' Clubs. Charters were presented to eight new Girls' Clubs. The Danish system of judging was used to judge the handicraft. Secretary's Scholarship was won by Enid Jones of the" Alberta Busy Beavers". The Proficiency Trophy and the Handicraft Cup were won by the Lone Pine Orioles. Supervisor, Mrs. H. Richardson, Didsbury with Assistant, Mrs. P. Houser. President, Jeanette Haderer for 1962 and 1963 One hundred and seventeen girls and Supervisors registered, representing twenty-eight Clubs with a membership of four hundred and eighty-two. The Provincial Supervisor stressed "You will only Get Out of this Convention What You Put Into It". 54 HISTORY 1963 1964 1965 SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE Theme Song "I've Got That Girls' Club Spirit" and the Slogan "Speak Kindly, words can heal or wound". Mrs. C. Quail, District 3 Director represented A.W.I. and spoke on the advantages of belonging to the Girls' Club and stresses the importance ofthe training and a good education. Mrs. Coates spoke on "Care of the Hair" and demonstrated the shampooing and setting of the hair. The Secretary's Scholarship was won by Linda Kozdrowski of the War spite Pathfinders. The Proficiency Trophy and Handicraft Cup were won by Bancroft Buttercups. President, Jeanette Johnson There were ninety-nine girls and thirty Supervisors attending, representing thirty-one Clubs with a membership of 742. Mrs. M. G. Roberts, President of A.W.I. and Mrs. G. Anthony, District 1 Director represented the Mother Institute. Mr. Maybank of Olds gave a demonstration on "Care of the Skin". A new craft was offered in "Seed Jewellery". The Secretary's Scholarship was won by Arlene Ziegler, of the Lone Pine Orioles. The Proficiency Trophy was won by the Lone Pine Orioles. The Handicraft Cup was a tie Between Warner Jolly Janes and the Lone Pine Orioles. One hundred and twenty-five members and thirty Supervisors attended. The Theme Song "The Happy Song" with the Slogan "All our Discontents Spring from Lack of Thankfulness". Mr. Wilton, Olds College used the A WIGC letters in his talk to describe the condition in which they would arrive home -"All Wiser, Invigorated, Gladdened and Collapsed". Craft instructions included Beach Bags and Wall Hangings. Lily Larter acted in the absence of President Rita Christensen. Mrs. Ken Wood spoke about Avon Beauty Aids. The Secretary's Scholarship was won by Leanne Herbst, Warner Jolly Janes. The Proficiency Trophy was won by Bancroft Buttercups. The Handicraft Cup was a four way tie. In the evening the girls viewed the striking window display in Marg's Dress Shop downtown. Vice President Lily Larter acted in the absence of the President. Theme Song "Do What You Do Well". The Supervisor stressed the importance of the saying "To Thine Own Self be Truthful". Craft classes included instructions in Drawn Fabric and Cross Stitch as well as making marble necklaces. Mrs. J. Bielish, A.W.I. President brought greetings and Mrs. 55 HISTORY 1966 1967 SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE Whitson's talk told about the "Highway of Life of a Club Member". Two hundred and fifty attended the banquet and the evening concluded with a Masquerade following the presentations. Joyce Underhay was the winner of the Secretary's Scholarship. She was a member of the Lone Pine Orioles. Proficiency Trophy and the Handicraft Cup were both won by the Warspite Pathfinders. In lieu of corsages the money was used to establish a Social Service project designed to set up and maintain Girls' Clubs in the North. To raise money the girls were encouraged to hold "Stay at Home Teas". The retiring Supervisors were presented with silver trays in appreciation of their work with the girls. Supervisor, Mrs. H. Hillaby with Assistant, Mrs. L. Blades, both ladies from Camrose. Ninety-six girls and twenty-five Supervisors attended the Convention, representing twenty-five active Clubs. President, Lily Larter Theme Song "Alberta" Theme "Our Alberta Heritage" and the Slogan "Courtesy, Courage and Co-operation". Mrs. C. Alexander, A.W.I. representative stressed the importance of dreaming. Welcome guests were Mrs. Isa King and Miss Enid Abraham from Guyana who spoke about their country, their customs and their people. As a special treat Mrs. King sang for the girls. Honorable Robert Clark, Alberta's Minister ofY outh spoke on how the Department was designed to help Youth. Cheri Jackson won the Secretary's Scholarship. The Proficiency Trophy was won by the Melody Maids. The Handicraft Cup was a tie between the Loyalist Lassies and the Melvin Meadowlarks. The largest Club in the Province is the Lethbridge Northern Busy Bees with a membership of thirty-eight. President, Lily Larter There were eighty-eight girls representing twenty-three active Clubs attending. Theme "This Land is Our Land". Mrs. C. Oxtoby, newly elected Provincial Secretary brought greetings from A.W.I. Mrs. Morrisroe, Director of District 3 donated two A WIGC spoons to be presented to the best models in the Fashion Show. Roxanne Palamarek of the Warspite Pathfinders and Lily Larter of the Lethbridge Busy Bees were the winners. A major item on the agenda was the revision of the Guide Book. It was decided that the beanie would be no longer a part of the Club uniform. Mr.s. G. Johnson, a former Supervisor of 56 HISTORY 1968 1969 SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE the Lone Pine Orioles obtained two new trophies for the Club. One to be awarded to the Secretary who wins the Scholarship with the other going to the best piece of Art work in all classes. Debbie Hannah of the Lone Pine Orioles was the winner of the Secretary's Scholarship. The Proficiency Trophy and the Handicraft Cup were both won by the Lethbridge Northern Busy Bees. Two AWIGC members had an all expense paid trip to Expo to a youth camp in Eastern Canada, courtesy Alberta Agriculture Centennial Committee. Lily Larter and Margaret McN aughton were the winners. Dianne Zukiwsky of the Warpsite Pathfinders and Judy Iwamota of the Lethbridge Northern Busy Bees attended Goldeye Camp. This was the Golden Anniversary of the Girls' Club and was held at the newly built Olds College and Dormitories. This was a celebration of fifty years of training young girls for" Home and Country". The Convention featured a tribute to the past, an evaluation of the present and a look into the future. Over one hundred girls and Supervisors representing eighteen Clubs registered. Mrs. Hillaby, Provincial Supervisor was assisted by her daughter, Mrs. D. Wieschorster, Strome in the absence of the Assistant Supervisor, Mrs. L. Blades. President, Lily Larterwas also unable to attend as she was on a singing tour of England. May Uyeda of the Lethbridge Northern Busy Bees won the Secretary's Scholarship. The Proficiency Trophy was won by the Melvin Meadowlarks. The Handicraft Cup was won by the Lone Pine Orioles. Mrs. J. Bielish, A.W.I. President was the guest speaker and was the recipient of an A.W.I. Girls' Club pin. The Masquerade featured girls dressed as characters from a story book with short skits. Following the banquet all adjourned to the auditorium to take part in and witness a Pageant - "Pendulum of Time" ending with an impressive candle lighting ceremony, thus honoring fifty years of Girls' Club work in Alberta. Ninety-three girls and Supervisors attended. President, Doreen Shultz. Mrs. C. Alexander, A.W.I. President represented the Mother Institute. Theme "Read, Listen and Remeber". Slogan "Don't Listen with Your Face Only". Inclement weather prevented having a Sports Competition but instead games and contests were held in the gymnasium. The masquerrade was to be the native costume of a country. The Proficiency Trophy was won by the Mountain View Jolly Juniors. Donna Hunter of the Mountainview Jolly Juniors won the 57 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE Secretary's Scholarship. The Handicraft Cup was won by the Coburnettes. 1970 Supervisor, Mrs. M. Harrop, Assistant, Mrs. Ann Wood, both ladies lived in the Peace River. President, Sheila McNaughton. There were eighty-nine girls representing twenty-three Clubs in attendance. Clubs are fewer than in past years but Clubs have larger membership. A newly reorganized Club in Worsley, 125 miles north and west of Peace River named the Merrymakers have thirty enthusiastic members. Three other newly organized Clubs at Millet, Wabamun and Sundre have a large membership. The Proficiency Trophy and the Handicraft Cup were won by the Moutain View Jolly Juniors. The Supervisors decided to establish an exchange program for travel whereby Senior Girls might be awarded exchange trips to different areas of the Province where they would be guests of a hosting Girls' Club Branch for a week. Mrs. J. Morrisroe, A.W.I. Vice President was banquet guest speaker and gave a most interesting illustrated talk "What Makes a Good Girls' Club Member". An Amateur Hour was presented to the guests and Club members following the banquet. 1971 President, Sheila McNaughton. There were delegates from every Club present with a total of one hundred and ten girls and Supervisors attending. Supervisors made many changes in the Athletic Program and the Compeition was changed from an individual one to a Club Competition. In the previous year Poetry was put on the list of Competitions. A trophy donated by Mrs. Anna Erickson, Supervisor for many years of the Merry Rowenas to be known as the "Anna Erickson Trophy" was also awarded for the first time to Shirley Nickel, a Junior from Samis Sunbeams. Guest speaker at the banquet, Mrs. J. T. Morrisroe, A.W.I. Vice President chose as her topic "A Good Citizen". Building good character is like building a house, both must have a firm foundation. The Proficiency Trophy and the Handicraft Cup were both won by the Merry Rowenas. Mary Rowell won the Secretary's Scholarship. There was no award for sports since inclement weather prevented the holding of competitions. 1972 President, Trudy Plaizier of Peace River There was a one hundred percent representation of Clubs with one hundred and eleven in attendance. Proficiency Trophy was won by the Coburnettes. Handicraft Cup was a three-way tie between the Coburnettes, the Merry Rowenas and the Millet Mermaids. Kathleen Pickard won the Secretary's Scholarship. 58 HISTORY 1973 1974 SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE For the first time the Sport's Trophy was given to a Club rather than to an individual with the Coburnettes winning the trophy. Guest speaker at the banquet was Mrs. Nellie Whitson, 2nd Vice President of A.W.I. Much discussion regarding a new edition of the Guide Book took place. So many changes have been made that the 1967 edition is outdated and difficult to decipher. Suggested revisions were requested to be in by July 1973. The summer of 1972 saw the first inter-Club exchange of members, with two girls from Alberta Busy Beavers visiting two Central Alberta Clubs, one visited Westward Ho Willing Workers and one visited the Bancroft Buttercups. President, Trudy Plaizier Theme: We are Better Citizens Because We Think and Do and Give. Slogan, "Growth in Tolerance, Compassion, Understanding and Knowledge". Twenty Clubs were represented at the Convention. Proficiency Trophy was won by the Judah Sweet Peas. The Handicraft Cup was awarded to the Glendon Merry Rowenas. Debbie Connery won the Secretary's Scholarship. She is from Worsley. Guest speaker at the banquet was Mrs. J. T. Morrisroe, A.W.I. President who spoke of the Unlimited Opportunities available to youth today. She urged each Club member to take advantage of every opportunity available. Cathy Watson of the Cosmos Centennials was awarded the Cornelia Wood Trophy for Public Speaking. Mrs. Harrop and Mrs. Wood were presented with spoons and trays in appreciation of their four years work with the Girls. Mrs. Betty Sparrow of Wabamun is the newly appointed Supervisor (Provincial) of the A.W.I. Girls' Clubs. Mrs. Marion Ivan is her assistant Supervisor. Mrs. Sparrow started with tenty clubs under her jurisdiction. Two new clubs have been organized, the Borderline Belles from Altario and the Greenwood Stampeders from North West Calgary. Two Women's Institutes have applied for an application to start Clubs. A revised edition of the Guide Book has been printed and circulated. A grant of $250.00 was received from the Department of Culture, Youth and Recreation to assist with the printing of the Guide Book. Four girls participated in the travel exchange spending a week with a different club. Congratulations go to the Bancroft Buttercups who celebrated their 25th Anniversary in AUg'ust, 1973. 59 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE The Theme of the 1974 Convention "Girls of Today, Women of Tomorrow" . Proficiency Trophy was won by the Lone Pine Orioles. Handicraft Cup awarded to the Merry Rowenas. Sports trophy to the Lone Pine Orioles. Ben Van Tetering of the Bancroft Buttercups won the Secretary's Scholarship. 60 ~ HISTORY SUPPLEMENT of the ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE 1956-1975 :f. ~ dl" FOREWORD The 65th Anniversary in 1974 of the Alberta Women's Institutes was a milestone reached and it seemed the logical time to update the History of the Organization from 1955 to 1975. This Supplement includes a biography of each President along with a record of accomplishments, special projects and events, educational programs conducted on selected topics and highlights of her term, as well as a record of Conventions held, resolutions passed and Anniversaries celebrated. Throughout this span of years continued progress has been made in keeping with Institute aims and objectives. Educational programs and projects have been designed to meet the challenge of the ever changing times. Briefs have been presented, surveys conducted and questionaires completed on issues of interest and concern to the homemaker. Our Organization's opinions have been sought on issues of the day by various Government Departments. Our craft displays continue to be outstanding. Branch Institutes continue to provide numerous services within their respective communities as well as supporting Federated and Associated Countrywomen ofthe World projects. A.W.I. Girls' Clubs have continued to flourish. With the establishment in 1975 of a Provincial Office along with the assistance of a $25,000.00 Government Grant for extended educational programming in the rural areas Alberta Women's Institutes continue bein~ regarded as a progressive Organization. Alberta Women s Institute can look to the future with confidence as long as there is a need for an organization of dedicated volunteers working together for the betterment of "Home and Country" . I acknowledge with thanks the following for their assistance with the compiling and publication of this supplement: - The Past Presidents who submitted summaries of what transpired during their term of office. Mrs. Kay McMillan for her co-operation in making available sources of reference on file in the Office. The present Council who are responsible for the printing and publishing and to anyone else who contributed information and effort toward the supplements completion. Thanks to all and may it provide enjoyable reading as well as a source of information for all Institute members. Ethel M. Morrisroe 2 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE MRS. T. H. (RUTH) HOWES uth Beatrice Bloom was born in Alba, Pennsylvania on July 27, R 1894. After attending school in Illinois and New York, she received a Bachelor of Philosophy degree with Honours from Bethany College, West Virginia. She taught English and History in Ohio until her marriage to Thomas H. Howes in 1917. In 1925 they came to Willow Farm at Millet where they made their home until their retirement to the town of Millet in 1965. The Howes have three married daughters, 14 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren. Mrs. Howes joined the Millet Institute in 1925 and through the years served in many offices at the branch and constituency levels. As the Constituency Convener for the Wetaskiwin Constituency several new Branches were organized and a new Constituency - Ma-Me-O was formed. Mrs. Howes served as District 3 Director from 1946-1951. Many new Branches were organized and District 6 came into being. As publicity convener for the northern half of the Province from 1949-1966, Mrs Howes reported Institute news in the Edmonton daily papers. She served as Vice President for two years before being elected to the presidency in 1955. Mrs. Howes lead the Alberta delegation to the First National Convention of the Federated Women's Institutes of Canada held in Ottawa in 1957 and there was elected as Second Vice President of the Federated Women's Institutes. Mrs. Howes was assistant editor of the Federated News which was the official publication of the Federated Women's Institutes. In this capacity she was always looking for ways to help the Institute movement. In 1953 Mrs. Howes attended the Associated Country Women of the World Conference held in Colombo, Ceylon. On this trip she also visited sister organizations in Australia, New Zealand, Lebanon, Switzerland and England. On her return home she shared these experiences with many groups. In 1959 she attended the ACWW Conference in Edinburgh and in 1968 in Lansing, Michigan. At the request of the F.W.I.C. Executive Mrs. Howes completed in 1965 the biography of Adelaide Hoodless, founder of the Women's Institute Movement, entitled "Woman with a Vision". In 1965 she was appointed to a committee of three to compile the Alberta Chapa HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE ter of the book "The Heritage of Canadian Handicrafts". In 1967 at the request of the Canadian Federation of University Women, Mrs. Howes wrote the chapter on Adelaide Hoodless for the book "Twenty Canadian Women and Their Times". Mrs. Howes has served many organizations, the United Farm Women of Alberta; Canadian Red Cross; Canadian Consumers' Association and others often acting on boards and executives. She was honored by Certificates of Merit, the Centennial Medal and Life Membership in the Alberta Women's Institutes and the Federated Women's Institute of Canada. Mrs. Howes convened the Golden Jubilee Convention in 1959 a grand finale to her four years as President. A.W.I. JUBILEECONVENTION UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTA,MAY 26-29, 1959 THEME:-FIFTY YEARS FOR HOME AND COUNTRY: WORKSHOPS: A Branch Workshop was conducted on the first day of the Convention. A panel discussed reporting and publicity. Then the assembly was divided into groups and given a period for a buzz session. The topics discussed were the yearly branch program, branch problems, special activities, needs of individual or prospective members and adjustment to the changing times. Branch problems evoked the most interest and many solutions were discussed. In the afternoon the "Package Deal", a new method of group discussion in adult education was introduced by Mr. George T. Potter from the Department of Extension. To demonstrate the package deal, a group of women from Fort Saskatchewan with Mrs. Ferguson acting as chairman took part in a discussion on "Aging is Everbody's Business". Two other "packages" are available, namely "Your Child and the School" and "Canada and World Affairs". Co!. E. C. Cormack, Department of Extension conducted a Workshop on the topic "Live meetings and active members". He began by saying we are continually searching for ways and means to make our meetings worthwhile gatherings, and in every way to satisfy the needs of the members. SPEAKERS: Mrs. Keith Rand, President of Federated Women's Institutes of Canada spoke on the responsibilities of Institute members. To meet the many responsibilities they must be well informed. She cautioned "Man cannot control nature until he has learned to control himself, attained moral sanity and emotional stability". Dr. C. F. Bentley, Dean of Agriculture, University of Alberta spoke on "This Alberta of Ours". 4 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE PROJECTS: A.W.I. Fund Safety - traffic safety under the Health convener farm safety under the Agriculture convener. Arthritis - learn more of the causes, types of arthritis. Mental Health Indian situation - to be studied under several headings. PRIZES: Handicraft shield - Munson W. I. highest number of points Burdett W. I. second. Tweedsmuir History - Angus Ridge W. I., Wetaskiwin. Tweedsmuir Handicrafts (Grandmother's Quilt Blocks) 1. Sunshine W.I., Coutts 2. Falun W.I., Falun Tweedsmuir Cultural Project (Words and Melody) 1. Mrs. A. Walker, Fairview 2. Mrs. L. Peterson and Mrs. A. Walker, Fairview Scrapbooks 1. Clearview W.I., Red Deer 2. Rugby W.I., Didsbury and Alida W.I., Vegreville FIFTY YEARS IN REVIEW: Costumes dating right back to before the year 1900 set the stage for the evening with the Past Presidents. Mrs. A. H. Rogers spoke of the earliest beginnings of Institutes and introduced Miss Isobel Noble, first President of the Alberta Women's Institutes. Miss Noble brought to life the days when the new organization was expanding to meet the overwhelming needs of the women of Alberta. Initiative and courage paved new but solid foundations for service. Miss Noble's sparkle and gaiety were contagious. All those present glowed when she finished with the poem: Wonderful, wonderful fortunate you This is the year that your dreams come true. Many of the Past Presidents were unable to attend but the highlights of each term were presented to show the continuity of growth and change. Other Past Presidents in attendance were Mrs. J. P. Ferguson of Trochu; Mrs. Lottie Thompson of Lethbridge and Mrs. S. Lefsrud of Viking. Each added her experiences in the life of the A.W.I. with each playing an important part of it. RESOLUTIONS: Carried 1. Rehabilitation of prisoners. 2. Segregation and treatment of alcoholics in women's prisons. 3. That the National Film Board make a documentary of the International Peace Garden. 5 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE 4. That children attending school receive Family Allowance even after they become sixteen years of age. 5. That Indians be allowed to vote. 6. That the Alberta Government establish a degree course for the training of social workers. ACCOMPLISHMENTS AT CONVENTION: 1. A.W.I. donated $100.00 towards an Emily Murphy Pavilion in Emily Murphy Park in Edmonton. 2. A.W.I. voted to place a park bench with the Alberta Provincial Crest in the International Peace Garden. 3. Each Province was asked to help furnish the new National Office. A.W.I. voted to donate a portrait of Judge Emily Murphy-F.W.I.C.'s first President. TOUR: Buses took the delegates to the new Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium. After the tour, tea was served courtesy of the Alberta Government. A.W.I. CONVENTION-UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTA MAY 27-30, 1957 THEME-ONWARD TOGETHER: WORKSHOPS: A workshop dealing with communications in the A.W.I. was conducted by Mr. Roy C. Brookbank, Executive Director of the Canadian Council of Christians and Jews, Western Division. The evaluation showed that the best methods of communication were by demonstration, buzz session, panel and lecture in that order. The afternoon workshops were on "Problem Solving in the W.I. and "What, How and Who of Conducting Meetings". PROJECTS: 1. The A.W.I. Fund 2. Mental Health RESOLUTIONS: The resolutions carried were on: Child welfare. Equality of opportunity for Indians in education. Inheritance laws-that they be changed to make the rights of adopted children equal to those of natural children. PRIZES: Handicraft shield was won by Horse Shoe Canyon W.I. Tweedsmuir History prizes: 1. Sunshine W.I. 6 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE 2. Samis and Bancroft W.1.'s. Tweedsmuir paintings: 1. Mrs. Jennie Lefsrud 2. Mrs. P. C. Howat Tweedsmuir Hope Chests: 1. Sib bald W.1. 2. Pearce W.1. Short Story: 1. Mrs. Hattie 1. Chester, Barons. 2. Mrs. J. E. Jorgenson, Picture Butte. MONEY MATTERS: The President's allowance was increased from $25.00 to $425.00 per annum. The secretary and treasurer each receive $250.00 plus $50.00 for storage. Membership dues are $1.00 per member. OTHER STATISTICS: There are 284 Branches and 5,320 members in the A.W.1. Attendance at the Convention was 546. 7 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE MRS. W. R. (VIRGINIA) FORD V irginia Gow was born in Oregon. In 1917 her family came to Winnifred, Alberta, now a ghost town on the C.P.R. between Medicine Hat and Lethbridge. Her father settled on a farm south of Winnifred in an area which was soon drought stricken which meant there was little opportunity for Virginia to complete her education. However there was a teacher shortage at about this time and one month after her eighteenth birthday she was granted a permit to teach for a year in a nearby rural school. That classroom experience shaped her future in two respects. She had found her niche in life and she had now the means to continue her education. In 1924 she graduated with honours from the Calgary Normal School. Forthe next ten years she alternately taught school or attended university until she had qualified for teaching high school. In 1938 Virginia Gow and Walter Ford married and established a farm home east of Coutts on the Alberta-Montana Border. It was to be their home until the couple retired from farm life in 1973 and established their home in the Village of Coutts. Virginia's first contact with the Alberta Women's Institute was in 1929 when as a new teacher in the Manyberries community she was asked to become the leader of the local A.W.I. Girls' Club. After her marriage she joined Sunshine Branch as a charter member and became its first President. Beginning in 1949 Mrs. Ford served Warner Constituency as Convener, District IV as Director and the Provincial Organization as Vice President. She was elected to the office of Provincial President in 1959, a position she held for two years. Mrs. Ford was the first Provincial Officer of A.W.I. to represent the organization at any meeting of native women. The occasion was the first Western Regional Conference of Indian Homemakers held at the Blackfoot Reserve at Gleichen, August 18-20, 1953. For the next six years Mrs. Ford was the A.W.L liaison officer, speaking at Homemaker's meetings and contributing articles for their newsletter. She served as Junior Board Member for Alberta to F.W.I.C. 1955-1957 and as Senior Board Member in the years 1959-1961. Mrs. Ford was one of the enthusiastic promoters of the first International Friendship Meetings between sister societies of 8 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE ACWW which was held in Lethbridge, May 1956. Other contributions of a lasting nature that Virginia Ford made during her years in provincial activity included the instituting and compiling of the Book of Life Members under Mrs. Howes' presidency and also the impetus she gave to the compilation of local histories. In 1955, while at the FWIC Board meeting she saw the Tweedsmuir History entries. She was impressed with the value of such efforts and subsequently helped with the research and writing of "The History of the Border Country and Coutts". This book won the Tweedsmuir Trophy in 1957. She was able to give practical advise to groups writing local history in other parts of the country. One project during her presidency that she recalls with much pleasure is the Citizenship Workshops. In 1959 Mr. C. A. Westcott of the Department of Citizenship and Immigration, Edmonton proposed that his office and the Provincial A.W.I. cooperate in sponsoring citizenship workshops in various parts of the Province. The Citizenship office would provide the program and the personnel and A.W.I. would through their branches have charge of local arrangements and advertising. The overall purpose was to involve more groups in common problems in the field of citizenship. Meetings were held in Lethbridge, Taber, Calgary, Camrose, Edmonton, Grande Prairie and Peace River. The workshops proved their worth and were continued after 1961. Mrs. Ford decided to only serve the one two year term but recalls with deep appreciation the many kindnesses and the warm friendship extended her while she was Provincial President. She returned to teaching in Coutts Junior High from 1962-1969. Her time is spent now with church, fraternal and political activities, gardening, reading and writing. INTERNATIONAL FRIENDSHIP MEETINGS District IV Branches have been fortunate in having International Friendship Meetings for their members who would never be able to attend an ACWW Conference in some distant continent. These meetings began in 1955 at the grassroots level when Hillsview Branch of Aden, Alberta invited the Home Demonstration Club at Whitlash, Montana to attend one of their monthly meetings. Although the members of the two clubs were neighbors, they were divided nationally by the Canada-U.S. Boundary line. However, they were united by many common goals not the least being the desire to further good will between their respective countries. At the time of the first meeting neither club realized that the other was a constituent society of the Associated Country Women of the World. An account of this hands-across-the-border meeting reached the Provincial Executive of the A.W.I. at the time when plans were being made for the official visit to Lethbridge of Mrs. Alice Berry, Presi9 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE dent of ACWW. An invitation to attend the Lethbridge meeting was extended to all Montana Home Demonstration Clubs located near the Alberta Border. The response to the invitation was overwhelming both in a record attendance and also in the enthusiasm shown by the American visitors. They were inspired by Mrs. Berry's message and stirred to know that they were able through "Pennies for Friendship" to help women in the underdev~loped nations. A letter from the State International Chairman of Montana said in part: "Do you realize what a selling job you did for your big wonderful country? We were so royally entertained and loved every minute of it. I mailed my cheque today to London and hope it will help in some small measure". In the summer of 1957 the Montana Home Demonstration Clubs hosted an International Day at North Montana State College, Havre. We found the Montana women eager to learn about the workings of the ACWW and the Canadians in turn were impressed with the evidence of the creative skills learned through the extension program of the Home Demonstration Clubs. Will we ever forget the amazing centre piece on the giant refreshment table-two flags side by side, the Union Jack and the Stars and Stripes composed of red, white and blue blossoms of petunias and lobelia. The annual International Meeting returned to Lethbridge in July 1958 with District IV again hostesses. Dr. Nancy Adams, Area Vice-President for Canada of the ACWW was the guest speaker. Dr. Adams was at her best as she stressed the purpose of such gatherings-"to share a common goal of deeper friendship, understanding and hope for World peace". The American visitors were wearing red, white and blue ribbon corsages with shining new ten cent pieces as the flowers within. These coins were removed later to be donated in the "Pennies for Friendship" march for ACWW. The following year the Canadians accepted an invitation to meet with the Montana Home Demonstration Clubs in historic old Fort Benton. Again the American ladies delighted their Canadian friends with the novel favors, craft display and their heart warming hospitality. The largest gathering of all was held in 1960 at the Lethbridge Experimental Farm with District IV again acting as hostesses. Members from District III and V came by chartered bus to attend the gathering. Mrs. Irene Spry of the Executive Committee of ACWW spoke in her quiet and charming way of many matters the world body would hope to accomplish. She stressed especially our part in the Freedom for Hunger Campaign. There were over three hundred in attendance. From 1960 to the present, 1974 the International Friendship Meetings have suffered a slow decline. One can only surmise that a change in provincial and state goals may have made some difference. However meetings at the local level continue especially between Medicine Hat Constituency and its branches with the clubs of Toole, Liberty and Hill Counties in Montana the friendships are 10 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE 4. That W.I. Branches do not lend their names to Magazine salesmen. 5. That all Resolutions coming to the Provincial Convention be supported by research data. HANDICRAFT PRIZES: 1. Horse Shoe Canyon W.I. - Shield 2. Warner W.I. 3. History - Red Deer W.I. 4. Scrapbook - Jackson W.I. The Histories and the Scrapbooks Rogers and she urged all Branches happenings and achievements. and $50.00 were judged by Mrs. A. H. to compile a record of their SPEAKERS: MRS. NORMAN HEWITT - a lawyer and barrister spoke on wills and estate planning. (Since then she has spoken to many groups throughout Alberta and conducted Short Courses). MRS. E. J. ROYLANCE spoke on the ex- F.W.I.C. President pected changes in our organization and how to capitalize on them. of Sociology & DR. GORDON HIRABOY ASH I - Department Philosophy "Our Canadian Indian Study". How can our values and thinking be changed so that Canadian Indians are accepted by whites and themselves as they are?" MISS LOUISE TADIKER - Co-Ordinator of Women's Activities for National Highway Safety Council. "Safety on the Roads" dominate the machine instead of it dominating us or it will destroy us. It is in our hands. DR. NANCY ADAMSArea Vice President of ACWW spoke on her recent visit to the Carribean - "If we are to build Friendship around the World, we must give up thinking we have to have". MRS. ETHEL MARLISS - C.A.C. along with two other speakers gave timely tips on insurance and gimmicks of salepeople. 12 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE MRS. M. G. (MYRTLE) ROBERTS M yrtle Oliver was born in Calgary in 1905, the oldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. E. H. Oliver. Her first years of schooling were in Lethbridge and then in Calgary where she also attended Normal School. Teaching in a rural school, she met and married a district farmer, John W. Olson. They had two daughters, Lois and Genevieve and a son Larry. Lois (Mrs. Cecil McArthur) was Constituency Convener of Knee Hill Valley. Myrtle joined the Horse Shoe Canyon W. I. in 1924 a short time before her marriage and in a short while became Constituency Convener of Drumheller Handhills Constituency. In 1954 she was widowed and received the sympathy of many friends. Her husband had been a well known and active Municipal Councillor. In 1955 she was appointed Director of District V to fill the 'vacancy when the Director Mrs. J. R. Tait moved from the District. In 1955 she married Morris G. Roberts, a retired distribution manager for Shell Oil of Canada, and the father-in-law of her daughter, Genevieve. They lived on a farm five miles south of Drumheller until 1973 when they retired to Drumheller. As Vice President during Mrs. W. R. Ford's term, she assembled a panorama of color slides of Alberta and presented them to the Federated Women's Institutes of Canada office in Ottawa. Besides her Institute work, Mrs. Roberts served as a member of the Drumheller Municipal Hospital Board. ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTES 1961 -1965 Mrs. M. G. Roberts was elected President of Alberta Women's Institutes at the 1961 Provincial Convention held in Edmonton, May 23-26. At the Council meeting held immediately following the Con vention, plans were made for a firm foundation for the term ahead. Constituency Conferences were the prime concern and the President or Vice President attended all Conferences if possible. 13 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE Publicity was a major concern and various ways were tried to improve A.W.I. publicity. All branch reports were sent to the Publicity Convener in order to simplify and coordinate provincial reporting. A Public Relations Clinic on publicity was very helpful. During her term as Director, Vice-President and President, Mrs. Roberts had the privilege offree broadcast time weekly over CJDV, Drumheller. Some tapes were also sent to Grand Prairie and Peace River and used for Institute Broadcasts. The Institutes worked very closely with the Alberta Safety Council, help and suggestions being requested many times. In February 1962 Mrs. Roberts was asked to attend the Western Canada Safety Conference in Brandon, Manitoba as Alberta's official delegate. The next year she was asked to prepare and present a report of the Safety work undertaken by the Women's Institutes in the three Western Provinces. Mrs. Roberts was asked to help plan a Leadership Techniques Short Course at the Banff School of Fine Arts. This course was of value to all Albertans. At her suggestion the age limit was revised to permit older persons to attend. The A.W.I. had the opportunity to send candidates for this training course and it was met with varying success. The Federated Women's Institutes of Canada Board meeting and National Convention took place in Vancouver, June 14-23, 1961. Mrs. Roberts attended as Senior Board member. There was a large representation of Alberta Institute members. Mrs. Roberts accepted the Silver Rose Bowl on behalf of the Dinton W.I. who had placed First in the FWIC Citizenship Competition with a Scrapbook showing the renovation of their Community Hall. She attended five Board meetings and two FWIC Conventions. At the Convention held in Wolfville, N.S. in 1964, she was elected Third Vice-President of FWIC which she felt was an honor bestowed on Alberta Women's Institutes. As some of the branches were approaching their 50th Anniversary, Certificates were designed to honor these events. Mrs. Roberts presented Certificates to Verdant Valley, Munson and Walsh in 1962 and to Argyle, Clearview and Rugby in 1963. Other officers presented Certificates to Raymond in 1962 and to Queenstown, Reid Hill and Stony Plain in 1963. At the 1961 Provincial Convention, the question of whether to send a delegate to ACWW Conference was lost. However, letters were received asking that Council set aside this decision and send the President as the A.W.I. delegate. Subsequently a letter was sent to all branches asking for their decision. The vote was favorable and Mrs. Roberts attended the ACWW Conference in Melbourne, Australia and also the ACWW Executive meetings. These were very important meetings as a new constitution was being finalized. Prior to the Conference, she was the guest of the Broadwater Branch, a small Branch in the State of Victoria. She was extended a warm welcome and many interesting events, picnics and outings were 14 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE arranged by the members and their husbands in her honor. She enjoyed seeing shearing being done at a large sheep station and found there were problems there too. As the Alberta Department of Agriculture had given the Alberta Institutes a Grant of $500.00, a full report was prepared and sent to the Hon. Mr. Halmrast. A full report of the Conference was also published in the March issue of Home and Country for all Institute members. A "Recommendation" was presented to the Cabinet of the Alberta Government suggesting changes in the Course of Studies at the Schools of Agriculture. A "Brief" was also submitted to the Cabinet including these recommendations. Mrs. Roberts felt proud to be representing the A.W.I. on the Board of the Vocational and Agricultural Colleges when most of these recommendations were accepted. The Second Annual Conference of the Indian-Eskimos Association was held in Edmonton. On the request from the Federated Institutes of Canada, Mrs. Roberts acted as their representative as they knew she had taken an interest in the Indian situation in Alberta. The A.W.I. had worked with the Indian Homemakers and had assisted in preparing Short Courses for them. They were also invited to attend our Conferences and Conventions and were warmly welcomed. As we began our 1962 season, Mr. Glen Eyford, Department of Extension was invited to help us take a "Look at Ourselves". We hoped that our organization might be able to eliminate some of the paper work many of our branch secretaries disliked. We took a look at A.W.I. in the community and tried to evaluate its purpose, its leadership and administration. Was its purpose in keeping with the times? An important consideration is that a leader takes on responsibilities, gives guidance to stimulate the organization and delegates authority. In looking at the administration part of our organization, we asked ourselves "are we top heavy with reports and reporting"? Are we too concerned in reporting the past and leave little time to plan for the future? Still seeking all the help possible, the Vice-President, Mrs. John Richards was sent to Saskatoon to attend a course on "Making Committees Work Effectively". After receiving the "Pink" monthly report forms from the branch secretaries, it seemed to me that it would be better if these were sent to the Vice-President. By tabulating these reports she would gain knowledge that would be essential to her when she becomes President. The format of the monthly report form was changed slightly and branches were instructed to send them to the Vice-President. In November 1963 a dream of mine came true-the Provincial Workshop became a reality. This Workshop was for Constituency Conveners and Provincial Standing Committee Chairman who met with council members in a most effective session. 15 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE In February 1964, Mrs. Harry Marshall resigned her position as treasurer of A.W.I. after seven years of service. Her resignation was regretfully accepted and after several months a new treasurer was found, Mrs. George McMillan. She assumed office September 1, 1964. At the 1963 A.W.I. Convention we had the first Installation Ceremony for the Officers. We tried something else new-door prizes and they were all well received. An A.W.I. Scholarship of $1,000.00 was established as a Centennial Project, to be awarded to an Alberta University student majoring in Social Work. The FWIC Convention was to be held in Wolfville, N.S. and A.W.I. approached the Government asking that Mrs. V. G. Macdonald attend the meeting in order to learn first hand what the members across Canada were doing in Handicrafts. The Government listened to our request and for the first time the Government of Alberta was represented at a National Convention. Several of Mrs. Macdonald's suggestions were submitted to FWIC for the 1967 Handicraft Competition. While none of them were used in their original form, the 1967 Competition was based on one of her suggestions, namely Drawn Thread Work. Several years had elasped since the last revision of the Handbook. Much work was done by the Council to bring it up to date, but the material was left with the new Council to complete and publish. A Sampler Competition was set up for the 1963 A.W.I. Convention in the hope that members would gain valuable help before making a Sampler for the National Competition with the result that many beautiful Samplers were entered. An appeal for good used school books to be sent to the West Indies met with a wonderful response. Shipping them proved difficult. At Council Meetings when FWIC business was discussed, it was apparent that it was the Vice-President who should be the Junior Representative on the FWIC Board and this would help prepare her for the Presidential term. Mrs. Roberts brought this motion to the Convention where it passed, and has proven to be a wise decision. The newly organized Board of Technicians asked for an A.W.I. representative. The Vice-President, Mrs. John Richards was appointed and has been a very capable representative. We also had representation on the Alberta Safety Council, Canadian Red Cross Society, Cancer Society, The Board of Alberta Vocational Colleges and Alberta Mental Health Association. Mrs. J. Bielish, A.W.I. Chairman of Education represented us at the Canadian Conference on Education in Montreal in March 1962. In December 1961, Mrs. Roberts was invited to take part in a panel discussion at the Annual Convention of Farm Women's Union of Alberta. The topic was "Why do you want to exist as an organization"? She gave ample justification for our existence. The Department of Agriculture turned to the A.W.I. when seeking help in judging the Master Farm Family Competitions. We, in turn asked that the District Home Economists continue to hold 16 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE Short Courses for our members and to do the judging of handicrafts at our Conferences and Conventions. This help was freely given and was of great benefit to the Alberta Women's Institutes. The Farm Radio Forum sought our support and branches assisted in the 1962-63 season. At first some areas did not carry these broadcasts, but arrangements were made very shortly to overcome the difficulty. The A.W.I. members had been requesting council to look into the possibility of securing a Provincial Office. Considerable investigation was carried out and finally it was decided to invest $10,000.00 in Guaranteed Investment Certificates, which was to be the start of a fund which in time would support a Provincial Office. Three new typewriters were bought in the Spring of1965, the old ones being taken in trade. These machines were for use by the President, the Secretary and the Treasurer. A considerable saving was realized by buying three at one time. The A.W.I. received a Scroll of Honor from the Unitarian Services Committee of Canada in recognition of their outstanding support. Many huge cartons of good used clothing had been sent to this agency throughout the years. A.W.I. Scholarships have been awarded to outstanding young women at the Agricultural and Vocational Colleges for many years. The Adelaide Montgomery Music Scholarship has also been made available to promising students. Mrs. G. R. Rinehart, Cardston worked very hard on her "Idea Book", but when I concluded my term of office it still was not ready for the publishers. A 1967 Centennial Project "Make Alberta More Beautiful and Safer for Living" was well accepted by our members and many areas of Alberta have the A.W.I. to thank for the improvement. This suggestion "Make Canada Lovelier" was accepted by FWIC and it captured the enthusiasm of members across Canada. A.W.I. 33rd CONVENTION - UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTA, EDMONTON JUNE 4, 1963 THEME: "ADVANCEMENT, WISDOM, INSPIRATION" PRESIDENT: MRS. M. G. ROBERTS SPEAKERS: Mr. and Mrs. Reginald Kelley, descendents of Haida Indian Royalty spoke from first-hand knowledge of problems of the Indian in our white society. Mrs. Dick Big Plume, Sarcee Indian Reserve homemakers Club spoke of relations between white people and Indians, the problems of integration and the need for better understanding. 17 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE Mrs. James Haggerty, President of the Federated Women's Institutes of Canada told of the Institutes' tremendous force for good which spreads far beyond our country. She left with a challenge - "One person may start a fire, but it takes many people to keep it burning". Dr. D. F. Cameron, Assistant Dean of the Faculty of Medicine spoke on "Doctors of Tomorrow" stressing the great changes in medicine from the general practioner to the specialists in all fields. Many more doctors will be needed, encourage young people to enter this field of service. Mrs. M. G. Roberts, A.W.I. President spoke on the ACWW Conference held in Australia. Mrs. E. Ridley, who had also attended gave her impressions and displayed Austrailian souvenirs. Mr. W. S. Sharpe, Chief Instructor at the Traffic Court Clinic spoke on a program to cut down traffic violations. SYMPOSIUM: "Our Topics" - conducted by the Provincial Chairmen of Standing Committees, highlighted the work of the Institutes in the past two years and had a forward look for new projects toward Canada's Centennial. CENTENNIAL PROJECTS: A.W.I. CENTENNIAL SCHOLARSHIP of $1,000.00 to be awarded to the outstanding student majoring in Social Service work in 1967. Mrs. H. Simonson, Wetaskiwin, Provincial Standing Committee Convener of Agriculture urged that Alberta undertake the F.W.I.C. project, "Make Canada Lovelier". Mr. and Mrs. George Wilson, Drumheller offered a trophy for a Centennial Competition on the provincial level conducted on branch and constituency levels, to be presented at the 1967 Convention. Another F.W.I.C. project for Centennial Year was accepted, that of publishing a Canadian Mosaic of Canadian Crafts. Mrs. James L. Richards was chosen chairman of the committee to complete the Alberta section. (The book is titled "Heritage of Canadian Handicrafts" and edited by H. Gordon Green). Another Centennial Project accepted was the UNESCO COUPON #367, whereby funds were channelled towards helping establish Institute Branches in the North West Territories. A.W.I. PROJECT: The compiling of an "Idea Book" was undertaken. All ideas towards the improvement of W.I. work were to be sent to Mrs. G. R. Rinehart, Cardston to be compiled. Driver Education for traffic, farm and home safety and use of seat belts were to be topics of intensive educational study. A.W.I. WORKSHOPS: Workshops as a project were suggested and these should be 18 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT implemented OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE as soon as possible. RESOLUTIONS: 1. Resolved that: the Provincial Government compile information that would help organizations in accident prevention work. 2. That the Alberta Women's Institutes refuse to sponsor magazine canvassing. 3. That since Treaty Indians may vote in Federal Elections, be it resolved that they should be given the same rights in Provincial elections. 4. That Annual Provincial Membership dues for Institute Members be increased to $2.00 per member. 5. That: Safety Belts be an A.W.I. Study during the 1963-1965 term. INTERESTING ITEMS: 1962- Education Year in Canada stressed the need for continuing education for women at all stages of life. Health - The drug "Thaledomide" and the deformity it may cause to unborn children should be studied. Special Project - Barley for Korea. Leduc W.I. was given an "Award of Recognition" by the Chamber of Commerce as being the most outstanding organization in town. They had given 3096 books valued at $9,000.00 to the town and $1,000.00 to the swimming pool. A.W.I. 34th CONVENTION - UNVERSITY OF ALBERTA, EDMONTON, JUNE 1-3, 1965 THEME: "PROGRESS PRESIDENT: THROUGH UNDERSTANDING" MRS. M. G. ROBERTS The pre-Conference "Get Acquainted Party" featured Mrs. E. McCuaig, President of the Peggi Adams Agencies in "Make the Most of Yourself' a topic dear to each person. She showed how a few minutes care each day can improve our appearance and well being. SPEAKERS: Mrs. J. Philip Matheson, F.W.I.C. President spoke on "Change and Challenge". With every change there is a challenge. Our organization is a rural women's university, so together we can meet these exciting changes. Mrs. Lemuel Burke spoke on "Similarities and Differences of the role of women in the countries where I have lived, India, Pakistan and Kenya. Mrs. Burke brought out some important points, among them that even though women in Inida have taken high public offices, it is accepted that Motherhood is the most important role. 19 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE Mrs. John Gregory from the Research Council of Alberta spoke on the "Challenge of Leisure". Mrs. Gregory defined leisure as "The time that could be used according to our desire or choice". A whole society may be released from the necessity of making a living to the opportunity of making a life. Mrs. Gerald Meredith of Fort Smith told of her Institute and life in the North, everything is changing. Wisdom is needed so that these changes do not become disruptive. Dr. C. F. Bentley, Dean of Agriculture University of Alberta spoke on "The Faculty of Agriculture - 50th Anniversary". He spoke of its growth and the increasing importance of agriculture. Dr. Bentley was disturbed that less than 25% of the young people who were eligible to attend University were doing so. He charged the Institutes with the responsibility of correcting this situation. Mrs. Thelma Scambler from the Department of Public Welfare spoke on "Social Wellbeing and our Expanding Responsibility". She said that government money and action is not enough in helping those less fortunate to social wellbeing. There must be concern. She challenged the Institutes to provide leadership. Mrs. C. A. D. Ringrose, Canadian Association of Consumers voiced concern re deceptive packaging and the pressing need of standardization in sizes in children's clothing. RESOLUTIONS: Warburg Institute made an intensive study of discrimination in general and the problems of Canadian Indians in particular. The following Resolution was voted on at the Convention and passed: That the Government of Alberta enact fair employment and fair accommodation legislation for the Province of Alberta and that the Government of Canada re-examine Acts of Parliament such as the Indian Act for discriminatory practices and circumstances limiting those affected by such Acts in housing, use of money, self government and use of land. That the Provincial Government be requested to set up a Mobile Clinic to travel throughout the Province with a skilled staff in charge to conduct examinations to detect cancer of the cervix in its early stages; such clinics to operate in a manner similar to the present Mobile T.R Chest X-ray Clinics. That we ask the Provincial Government to amend the Soil Conservation Act in Section II to make provision that by Council By-Law, or in the case of Improvement Districts or Special Areas, the Minister of Municipal Affairs may by order prohibit the cultivation of virgin sub-marginal soil. Motion to complete A.W.I. Projects accepted in 1963, to continue voluntary projects and direct efforts towards A.W.I. Provincial Office. Resolved that Institutes at different levels seek representation on local Development Councils and on Committees appointed to study problems and to recommend the allotment of funds avail20 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE able under ARDA and the Canada Council. Resolved that the A.W.I. urge the Department of Education and the Department of Welfare to inaugurate compulsory registration and education of the mentally retarded and where necessary provide help for an association to provide and maintain a residence for rural students. RECOMMENDATIONS: That our membership dues to be raised from $2.00 to $3.00 per year. That our Branches undertake the study and alert our communities to the seriousness of the drastic rise in venereal diseases among our young people. It was suggested that films and educational talks be used. PROJECTS FOR CENTENNIAL YEAR: A.W.I. Centennial Scholarship to be awarded to a graduate of the University of Alberta to train in a recognized School of Social Work. George S. Wilson's Trophy Competition - "Making Alberta More Beautiful and Safer for Living". Vera Macdonald's Handicraft Competition - Drawn Thread or Drawn Fabric-Teacloth, place mats or runner. Centennial Display of Embroidery Centennial Cultural Competition-Painting As the President's allowance was not sufficient ($400.00 per year) Council was empowered to raise her allowance. 21 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE address to a Graduation Class. The foregoing are just random examples and bear evidence that she is respected by youth and the aged as well as her own peers. Mrs. Bielish is a member of many organizations, but she claims that she received most of her leadership training and the encouragement to become involved through the Alberta Women's Institute. She has served the Alberta Women's Institute in most of the offices, including four years as Provincial President. As President, she led the Alberta Women's Institute delegation to two conferences of the Associated Country Women of the World in Dublin, Ireland in 1965 and Lansing, Michigan in 1968. She attended the Oslo, Norway Conference in 1971 as voting delegate of the Federated Women's Institutes of Canada. In June 1973, Alberta Women's Institutes hosted the National Convention in Banff, Alberta at which time Mrs. Bielish was on the Committee in charge of Convention arrangements. She was elected 2nd Vice President of the Federated Women's Institutes of Canada and was a voting delegate to the 14th Triennial Conference of the Associated Country Women of the World held in Perth, Australia in 1974. Because of her interest in and involvement with Native People she was nominated to the Northern Canada Women's Institute Committee. As a member of this Committee, she visited groups in Inuvik and Yellowknife and met with Commissioner S. Hodgson and members of the Adult Education Department. Mrs. Bielish has been appointed Chairman of the Northern Canada Women's Institute Committee at the F.W.I.C. Board meeting following the Convention. As President of the Alberta Women's Institutes, she succeeded in arranging the attendance of approximately twenty Native Alberta Women at the 1967 Convention of the Alberta Women's Institutes and also arranged the attendance of two Native Women at the World Conference in Lansing, Michigan. Under the sponsorship of A.W.I. the Native Women were given Observer Status. One of the Native Women attended the Conference in Oslo at her own initiative, but travelled with the Alberta group. At present Martha is serving on the Advisory Board on Adjustment of Immigrants to Canada Manpower and Immigration Council, selected as a member of a National Women's Organization. TERM OF OFFICE 1965-1969 To record the work of the Alberta Women's Institutes for the years 1965-1969 proves to be a more formidable task than performing the actual duties and accepting the responsibilities ofthe presidency had ever been. What does one select to include, and what, because of limited space does one merely mention or leave out altogether? Please remember that when I mention A.W.I., F.W.I.C. or ACWW, you are included by virtue of being a member of your branch. Now 23 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF MRS. JOSEPH THE ALBERTA (MARTHA M WOMEN'S INSTITUTE P.) BIELISH artha Bielish is a homemaker, a farmer's wife, a clubwoman and a concerned citizen. The Bielishs have one married son, a sculptor and three grandchildren. She is a teacher by profession and does substitute teaching in the County of Smoky Lake whenever she is available. She served two terms on the Board of the Smoky Lake School Division, prior to the formation of the County by Order-in-Council. As a school trustee she was elected to the executive of Zone 2 of the Alberta School Trustee Association and then became its President. She represented the Zone at Provincial and National meetings, attended School Administration Courses and Principals Association Meetings. In June 1959, Martha Bielish ran in the Provincial Election, the first woman to run for the Progressive Conservative Party in Alberta, and although she was not successful she made a good showing at the polls and claims she has learned a great deal from that experience. On the Provincial Level, Mrs. Bielish has served on several Committees and Boards, some of which are: 1. Three years on the Alberta Agricultural Centennial Committee during which time a film was produced, a book was published, a cairn was erected and dedicated and "Making Alberta Beautiful" was promoted 2. Three years on the Provincial Board of the Red Cross 3. Six years on the Provincial Board of the Canadian Cancer Society 4. Assisted with Master Farm Family Judging on the Regional Level for eight years 5. Served on the Advisory Board on the Status of Women until June 1973, when the Board requested to be disbanded. (Report was tabled in the Legislature at the 1972 Session) 6. Served on the Board of the Alberta Council on Aging 7. Served on the Executive of the Indian-Eskimos Association, Alberta and N.W.T. Region. She has been invited to speak from a church pulpit, address a world gathering of women in Oslo, Norway, participate in a panel at an Alberta Teachers' Convention (North Eastern Alberta), address the Voice of Alberta Native Women's Society at their annual Provincial Convention on two different occasions, and deliver the main 22 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE that I have bared my agonies, I hope that I will be forgiven for the sins of omission. Besides being elected President of A.W.I., the highlight of 1965 was attending the 11th Triennial Conference of the Associated Country Women ofthe World in Dublin, Ireland. Warm hospitality, co-operation and fellowship were apparent at every turn as the program unfolded under the theme "Working Together". 1966 brought the 50th anniversary of Women's Franchise in Alberta, and A.W.I. joined with the Council of Women and other grou ps to cele brate Women's Franchise Week. A portrait of Ro berta MacAdams, an early W.I. organizer and a nursing sister of the First World War, who was elected to represent the Armed Forces in the Alberta Legislature following the enfranchisement of women, was presented to the Alberta Legislature by Mrs. C. R. Wood, M.L.A. An Alberta Council on Aging was formed and I was invited to serve on the Council. Two women from Guyana, Miss Enid Abrahams and Mrs. Isa King were guests of A.W.I. for the month of July on a UNESCO Study Tour. They visited the Legislature, were received by His Honor, Lieut. Gov. J. W. Grant MacEwan, attended Alberta Women's Week at OIds, also the Girl's Club Conference at OIds. They were billeted in members homes and spoke to women's groups, visited hospitals, travelled through oil fields and agricultural country. Haying was in progress and they found it very difficult to believe that in a few months the fields would be covered with snow, and the cattle would eat that dry stuff. Mrs. L. McMillan, Citizenship and Education Convener and I attended a two and one-half day workshop with Indian people from five reservations in the St. Paul District. An invitation was extended to the Native Women to attend our Provincial Convention in 1967. They accepted the invitation, were inspired and formed their own Native Women's Organization. I was invited to address their first annual meeting, and their second annual meeting. Another year I was asked to assist with the election of officers. A.W.I. joined with other agricultural organizations, like the Alberta Wheat Pool, United Grain Growers', Farmers' Union and FWUA, F.U. & C.D.A., Alberta Federation of Agriculture and others to form the Alberta Agricultural Centennial Committee. Projects undertaken over a three year period were: 1. A film - We Just Take It All For Granted 2. A book - Furrows, Faith and Fellowship, a history of the Farmer's Union Movement in Alberta 3. A Cairn - located at the Red Deer Junior College Grounds honoring the Agriculture Industry 4. Highway and Campsite Hospitality 5. Youth Exchange Program 6. Make Alberta Beautiful - Clean up, Paint up, Beautify. Centennial Year brought many invitations to attend celebrations and dedications of centennial projects. There were Branch 24 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE projects, family projects, individual projects, community projects and A.W.I. projects. Renovating and refurnishing a one room school, dedication of cemetary gates, launching a community history, participation in pageants, presentation of a century of fashions, planting trees, quilting bees and quilt competitions provide just a sampling of the projects undertaken. A special A.W.I. Centennial Project of a $1000.00 scholarship in Social Work was awarded to Miss Sheila Begg of Edmonton. An Alberta Women's Advisory Committee to Expo was formed in Edmonton and I was elected 2nd Vice President. Information about women's programs at Expo was disseminated and advance ticket sales were promoted. The 1967 Convention with its theme, "The Second Century Challenge For A Better Home and Country", had an air of celebration, and an earnest desire to meet the challenges of changing times. Some of the first were: 1. A budget for 1967-69 was circulated prior to Convention 2. Provincial dues were raised to $3.00 per member 3. Home and Country subscriptions were raised to .50c per year 4. Major project for the next two years - Provincial Office 5. Offer made by Rinehart Ranches to underwrite the cost of printing the "Idea Book". Later a cheque for $300.00 was received. 6. Panel of Native Women addressed the Convention, expressing their needs. 7. Original craft and cultural competitions. After the A.W.I. Convention came the F.W.I.C. Convention in Guelph, with a trip to Stoney Creek, the sight of the first Institute in Canada, and a visit to the Adelaide Hoodless Homestead at St. George, Ontario, also a two day trip to Expo was arranged for Convention delegates. While A.W.I. Officers were attending the F.W.I.C. Convention, A.W.I. members and the FUWA members entertained a group of Farm Women from New Zealand. Four native girls from the North West Territories and their leader enroute to the 4H National Conference in Ottawa, were met at the airport given a tour of the city and the Charles Camsell Hospital, taken on a shopping tour and hosted at a dinner in a member's home. Two students from the Phillipines, Mrs. P. Urgel and Miss Frances Navarro, returning from a ten month's course in London, England, were hosted for a few days in Edmonton and taken on a trip to an outdoor barbeque and Centennial Celebration at Penhold. In the spring of 1968, the A.W.I. Executive presented a brief to the Royal Commission on the Status of Women. In June 1968, the Book of Ideas was published. Mrs. Rinehart officially presented the first copy to the A.W.I. at the Warner Constituency Conference, requesting that a free copy be sent to each Branch, and that 200 copies be sent to Lansing, Michigan to be 25 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE distributed without cost to women around the world. As requested at District Conferences, the A.WI. Council set up committees to study Structural Changes and Provincial Office, and to present their findings to Convention. I was privileged to lead the A.W.I. delegation to the 12th Triennial Conference in Lansing, Michigan, September 1968. To meet the women representing two hundred organizations from every continent is truly an unforgettable experience. I was able to secure funding for two Native Women, Christine Daniels and Edna Shirt, to attend the ACWW Conference under A.W.I. visitor status. Both were extremely grateful and they have become leaders among their people. Immediately following the ACWW Conference, A.W.I. in cooperation with FWUA arranged a tour of the Province for Mrs. Aroti Dutt, President of the Associated Country Women of the World, from Calcutta, India. Her talks and visit made a lasting impression on those who heard her. She cautioned us to accept our responsibilities in regard to our Native People. I served on the executive of the Indian Eskimos Association on the Provincial level and was elected to the Board of the Indian Eskimos Association of Canada. I also served on the Provincial Board of the Alberta and N.W.T. division of the Canadian Red Cross Society. I tried to -keep members informed of their programs and encouraged them to assist whenever and wherever possible. A good relationship was maintained with Canadian Mental Health Association, Unitarian Services Committee, Co-op Women's Guild and the Consumers' Association of Canada. I attended all F.W.I.C. Board meetings and served on the Resolutions Committee. I was elected Member-at-Large in 1967. Correspondence was maintained with ACWW headquarters and A.W.I. representatives in London. Mrs. R. McMullen kept A.W.I. well informed and she did a great deal on our behalf. I feel that we shall always owe her a debt of gratitude. Mrs. McMullen resigned in 1968 and Mrs. L. L. Palmer was appointed. Both Dr. and Mrs. Palmer were Albertans, so once again we were very ably represented. A marked increase in contributions to Pennies for Friendship was noted in this four year period. The work of the Alberta W.I. Girl's Clubs continued under the leadership of the Supervisors with financial assistance from Alberta Women's Institutes. The 1969 Convention with "Challenge of Change" as the theme, presented many challenges for changes: The role of women; the role of the family; rate of change in cultural development; the changing rural scene; changes presented by the structural committee and the office committee. Lively discussion and vigorous debate followed each presentation. Very few were willing to accept facts as presented. Very few were ready for changes. Delegates agreed that travelling expenses of delegates to the Provincial Convention should be paid by their respective Branches on a pool rate basis. 26 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE Not all was business. A.W.I. celebrated its 60th birthday, and to help celebrate the F.W.I.C. President, Mrs. George Clarke was present. In her talk she gave us an insight into the branches of other Provinces and the Territories. She likened the movement to a corridor with many doors - doors of opportunity that members may take advantage of. Mrs. G. R. Ridley, a W.I. member for sixty years cut the birthday cake. The Native Women presented a panel Success with Unity, We Are Responsible. In each member's presentation there was a message to be taken home and reflected upon in the quiet hours long after the rush of Convention was over. And just as quickly as it came, it was all over! A Life Membership - a signal honor! A beautiful silver tray all suitably engraved! Little gifts and mementos quietly given. Some notes of appreciation! And still a few questions as yet unanswered. I heard the voice of Mrs. A. H. Rogers, "There is nothing so past as a Past President". The four years as A.W.I. President have opened many doors for me, and I can choose one at will - they all contain very precious memories. A.W.I. CONVENTION - UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTA, EDMONTON MAY 31-JUNE 2, 1967 THEME: "THE SECOND CENTURY PRESIDENT: MRS. JOSEPH CHALLENGE" BIELISH The Centennial mood was at a high pitch at this Convention. At the banquet there was a "Parade of Century Fashions" - a colorful exciting pageant. The oldest costume was 106 years. There was also a parade of Histories and Scrapbooks with fifty eight Branches taking part. Another pageant of ethnic costumes portrayed the rich multiracial and multi-cultural backgrounds of the people in Alberta. Mrs. James Melnyk of Warspite was the capable song leader, accompanied by Mrs. A. Huse of Alliance at the piano. At the "Get Acquainted Party" there was a wig demonstration with willing models from the audience. For the first time Native Indian women attended our Convention and were warmly welcomed. Mrs. Norman Hewitt gave the keynote address "Women's Challenge in the Space Age". Mrs. Hewitt successfully combined a career in law with homemaking and is the mother of three children. If "housewife" means to manage with economy and skill, she said, women if they are informed could control the vote and would be able to reform the laws that affect the family unit. A panel of Native Indian women, moderated by Mrs. Eugene Steinhauer, of Edmonton, included Mrs. Emma Minde of Hobbema Reserve; Mrs. Leona Willier of the Sucker Creek Reserve, Mrs. Madeline Goodrider of the Piegan Band on the Brockett Reserve, Mrs. Margaret Makokis of the Saddle Lake Reserve; Mrs. Ber27 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE nadette Crier. They briefly told us of their problems and explained some of the ways that they could be solved. Having these women with us and sharing problems created a bond that we hoped would strengthen as time went on. Before the Convention ended, these women asked if they could come to the front and thank those present for their kindnesses. As each woman expressed her feelings, this came out - "No one can really help us -we must help ourselves". As women before we can be equal with the white society, we must be equal with our men. That's the way we must begin. Mrs. Vera Macdonald, head of the Home Economics Extension Branch, Department of Agriculture, moderated a panel "Fulfilling Needs in a Changing Society" with four specialists from her branch. They told how the family's health problems, changing food habits, home living and social expectations can be dealt with by the homemaker. Changes are so rapid but there is help from the Home Economics Branch and they outlined some of the services offered. Mrs. Irene MacGregor, Director of the newly created Women's Bureau, explained the function of her position - to be an ear to listen and help women in various ways so they could be more effective in their communities. Mr. James McFall, chairman of the Alberta Agricultural Centennial Committee, showed the centennial film "We Just Take it All for Granted". He presented Mrs. Bielish with a copy of their Centennial Book "Furrows, Faith and Fellowship". CENTENNIAL WORK: Mr. and Mrs. George S. Wilson, Drumheller presented a trophy and prizes for the competition - "Make Alberta Lovelier and Safer for Living". First prize went to the Lac La Biche W.I.; second to Angus Ridge W.I. and third to Pine Lake W.I. The $1,000.00 A.W.I. Scholarship for a student in Social Work was awarded to Sheila Begg, Edmonton. FEDERATED WOMEN'S INSTITUTE PROJECT: Needlepoint covering for seats of chairs for "Fathers of Confederation Building" in Charlettetown, Prince Edward Island. Warner W.I. did the needlepoint on the Alberta Chair. Into the Second Century, the main project was to build up a fund from which the interest would support a permanent office. RESOLUTIONS: 1. Resolved that: Institutes at different levels seek representation on local development councils and on the committees appointed to study problems and to recommend the allotment of funds available under ARDA and Canada Council. 2. That A.W.I. urge the Department of Education and the Department of Welfare to inaugurate compulsory registration of the mentally retarded and, where necessary, provide or help an association provide and maintain a residence for rural students. 28 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE RECOMMENDATIONS: That our membership dues be raised from $2.00 per year to $3.00 per year. Because of the drastic rise in venereal disease among our young people, we recommend that our branches undertake to study and alert our communities to the seriousness of this problem by use of films and educational talks. A.W.I. CONVENTION - UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTA,EDMONTON JUNE 3-6, 1969 THEME: "60th ANNIVERSARY" PRESIDENT: MRS. JOSEPH BIELISH The "Get Acquainted Party" was held in 'The Ship' at Lister Hall. Mrs. J ames Melnyk lead the Sing-Song, accompanied by Mrs. A. Huse at the piano, both veterans of A.W.I. Conventions. Mrs. Vera Macdonald, Supervisor of the Home Economics Branch, Department of Agriculture officially opened the competitive display of handicrafts. For the first time there was a sale of homemade articles to help defray the cost of the Convention. The Convention was honored to have Past Presidents Mrs. J. P. Ferguson; Mrs. T. H. Howes and Mrs. M. G. Roberts in attendance. SPEAKERS: Mrs. George Clarke of St. John's, Newfoundland, President of the Federated Women's Institutes of Canada, was a special guest. "Members are the life blood of an organization and team work is what makes it strong" Mrs. Clarke said. She compared the many phases of Institute work to a corridor with many doors. Behind these are opportunities - all kinds of opportunities, if we just open them. Mr. Wayne LambIe, Agricultural Supervisor, Department of Extension, chaired a Symposium on "Meeting the Challenge of Change" with four experts in Economics, Family Living, Culture, Agriculture. Some changes in our way of life, shorter working hours, more women leaving homes, farmers leaving the land. These changes put strains on ourselves, our families and our society. Bascially the needs of people remain the same and. they must be met. That is the Challenge. Miss Sheila Begg, winner of the A.W.I. Centennial Scholarship was Guest Speaker after the banquet. She spoke of her social work "Keep us, 0 Lord, from pettiness and let us be done with faultfinding", and said in social work the A.W.I. Creed is most meaningful and should be used throughout - and "0 Lord God, Let us not forget to be kind". A Panel presented by the Voice of Alberta Native Women's 29 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE Society, on the topic "Success with Unity" - "We are Responsible" was chaired by Mrs. Christine Daniels. The panel members shared their problems and their ways of coping with them. Trying to understand their woes made us all seem stronger. Institute members expressed happiness that the Native Women had formed a Society in which they could learn and grow. Mrs. J. Bielish, A.W.I. President gave a report of the ACWW Conference held in Lansing, Michigan, September 1968. Slides were shown and those who had attended the ACWW Conference gave their impressions of it. RESOLUTIONS: 1. That the A.WI. discontinue paying travelling expenses of branch delegates to the Provincial Convention, and that fares be paid by the branch on a Pool Rate basis. 2. That Alberta Women's Institute go on record as being opposed to taxation of farm dwellings. 3. That the A.W.I. requests the Department of Education, the Alberta Trustees Association and the Association of municipal Districts and Counties that school facilities be made available after regular school hours for community purposes, at a nominal fee or free of charge. 4. Whereas, most career information does not state eye examination requirements, re: vision or color blindness and its varying degree of acceptance, therefore - Be it resolved that the Government of Alberta request this information be clearly stated in all material presented to our students, and that a list of requirements be in the hands of all guidance teachers and principals of Junior and Senior High Schools in Alberta and that the Alberta Department of Public Health see that :111boys and girls in Junior and Senior High School be tested for color blindness. MOTION RE STRUCTURAL CHANGES OF ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTES: That the Structural Changes Committee continue studying the plan to discontinue districts and constituencies and form areas; and after consulting branches and determining areas, submit the proposals to the next Provincial Convention for approval. NOTE: At the next Convention 1971, the delegates rejected the proposal for structural changes. CREATIVE WRITING: Short story Competitions was added. were started STATISTICS OF A.W.I.: 34 Constituencies - 225 branches 30 and a year later - 3300 members. Poetry HISTORY SUPPLEME~T OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE MRS. MARION ALEXANDER Marion Alexander came to Mrs.Alberta from Montana State as a little girl. Her parents homesteaded in the Carman gay area, where she attended Institute meetings with her Mother - they were considered a way of life. Her Mother, Mrs. R. E. Reynolds later served as Director of District 4. Mrs. Gordon Ridley of Taber organized the Lethbridge Northern Busy Bees Girls' Club in 1932 and Marion was a Charter Member. In 1934 she married Carl Alexander of Picture Butte where she joined the Battersea W. 1. The Alexanders moved to Cayley in 1945 and she became the President of the newly organized branch there. Mrs. Alexander has held many offices on branch and constituency levels, and was Director at two different times before she was elected Vice President and then President. She served four years in each capacity. Mrs. Alexander competed her term as President immediately before the start of the Federated Women's Institutes of Canada Convention which was held in Banff, June 1973. She acted as hostess for this important Convention. She has served as Member-at-Large, Junior and Senior Board member for Alberta and is now serving as Director-at-Large of the F.W.I.C. She has a son and three married daughters and a proud grandmother of six. Widowed, she still lives on her farm at Cayley, where she is active in church and community. She is a Director of Rural Education Development Association and the Alberta Association of Continuing Education. She has travelled extensively in North America, Europe as well as Australia and New Zealand. In 1975 she was the winner of the Grace E. Frysinger Fellowship. This award is given by the Woman's National Farm and Garden Association of the United States. She will represent rural Canadian women as she travels and speaks to groups in eleven states for a six week period. This is an educational goodwill project. In a copy of a High School Magazine, "World Affairs", the author said: "The Editor of World Affairs sets an impossible task when he refers to current concern about urban problems, pollution, international strife and other great questions and then asks for an article 31 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE "How do we go about making the situation better? Where do we start"? Quite clearly, everyone must start where he is, with what he has. This maxim, incidentally is the motto of an organization - The Women's Institutes - which has probably had more constructive, unobtrusive influence on this country than any other public or private agency" - end of quote. That is how Mrs. Alexander began the report of her four years as President of the Alberta Women's Institute. Concerns and activities continued to be on-going ones of the organization with new directors and conveners taking the leadership. "Family Living" and "You and the Family" studies were held with films, talks and group discussions. Reporting and evaluation helped to focus on vital issues. In 1969 a joint meeting of the United Farm Women of Alberta and the Alberta Women's Institutes was held in Red Deerwhen Mrs. Philip Matheson, Area Vice President of the Associated Countrywomen of the World was guest speaker. Mrs. Matheson of Prince Edward Island was returning from a Seminar that had been held in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories for the Northern Canada Women's Institute members. It was an excellent opportunity for these two societies of A.C.W.W. to meet in Alberta with Mrs. Matheson and to learn first hand of the work our branches are doing in that area. Problems there are primarily the shortage of adequate housing and alcoholism. National Medical Services became a reality in 1970 - a long standing concern of our organization. Alberta Women's Institutes received a legacy of $534.00 from the estate of Mrs. Alfred Claxton, a member of the Edmonton Women's Institute to further the work of "Home and Country". During Mrs. Alexander's term for the first time Council of Alberta Women's Institutes met with Cabinet Members to discuss mutual concerns, and on several occasions also met with Mrs. Vera Macdonald, Head of the Home Economics Extension Department of Agriculture and some of her staff. A tribute was paid to the cooperation received from the Home Economics Branch at all times. A.W.I. CONVENTION PRESIDENT: - UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTA, EDMONTON JUNE 8-11, 1971 MRS. MARION ALEXANDER BUSINESS: It was approved with one dissenting vote that the Alberta Women's Institutes Council establish a Provincial Office and hire a Secretary Treasurer on a part time basis. This necessitated changing the Constitution from "the executive shall consist of the President, Vice President and Secretary" to 32 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE "the Executive shall consist of the President, 1st Vice President and 2nd Vice President". Voting by secret ballot, the change received the necessary unanimous vote. SPEAKERS: Mrs. E. V. Fulton of Birtle, Manitoba, President of the Federated Women's Institutes of Canada was an honored guest. Her concern was "the Dying Communities". The exodus to urban areas must be stopped she said. A panel of Standing Committee Chairman was moderated by Mrs. Lewis Northey, Balmoral Women's Institute, Red Deer. The Provincial Standing Committee Chairmen had attended for the first time, a meeting in Ottawa with their counterparts from all over Canada and with the National Chairmen. Together they had planned a program for the next term, which the Provincial Chairmen brought before the Convention. The F.W.I.C. Council had hoped that by bringing together the National and Provincial Standing Committee Chairmen it would strengthen the educational function ofInstitutes. The acceptance of such procedure was hoped to have widespread benefits. Mrs. Freda Talbot, instructor from the Edmonton Parks and Recreation Division, demonstrated Macrame which is the Art of tying knots. The Tweedsmuir Competition at the next Federated Convention will be for a tote bag in macrame. Dr. Grant MacEwan, Lieutenant-Governor of Alberta was the Banquet Speaker. He chose as his topic "Women's Roles in the Opening of our Country". He mentioned people familiar to us, among them were Emily Murphy and Nellie McClung, who set goals and worked tirelessly towards them. These people are a source of pride and inspiration to us. Mrs. Nancy Miller, Columnist for the Red Deer Advocate and a member of the Curriculum Committee on Education spoke on the Worth Report on Education. "What is the future of education she asked. Will we help shape it?" RESOLUTIONS: 1. that manufacturers of washing compounds be compelled to label their products with the percentage of chemical content (mainly phosphates which contribute to the pollution of our waters). 2. that the Federal Department of Justice, Ottawa be required to provide harsher penalties for anyone found guilty of trafficking in drugs. 3. that the Provincial Government be requested to take all possible action to control pornography. 4. that A.W.I. urge the Highway Traffic Board, Government of Alberta to immediately implement the Canadian Safety Association Standards re padded bars on back of seats on all school buses purchased before 1971. 33 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE RECOMMENDATIONS: 1. that the Alberta Women's Institutes ask the Federated Women's Institutes of Canada to start a National Project - the furnishing of a house in Fort Edmonton, in honor of Emily Murphy, the first F.W.I.C. President, whenever a house becomes available. 2. that the Creative Writing Competition become an Annual Competition instead of Biennial. NOTICE OF MOTION: that the Standing Committee Chairmen on the Provincial level have the right to be present at Council meetings when matters pertaining to their Convenerships are discussed and also to have a vote on these matters. It was during this term that Stony Plain-Lac Ste Anne Constituency honored Mrs. C. R. Wood by donating a "Girls' Club Public Speaking Trophy" in her name. Another A.W.I. pioneer was honored by the Edmonton-Victoria Sturgeon Constituency. A trophy was purchased to be given annually in honor of Mrs. A. H. Rogers, to the Best Entry in the Provincial Creative Writing Competition. STATISTICS: In 1971 there were 3000 members and 206 Branches. Branches continued to support National and International projects through F.W.I.C. and A.C.W.W. 1. A Landrover was given to a sister organization in Lesotho to help with their work with rural women. 2. Contributions were made to "Save the Sight", a project to help young children in developing countries where blindness is caused by lack of vitamin "A". The President represented A.W.I. at the National Board meetings, as well as at the National Convention in Winnipeg in 1970 where the invitation to host the next National Convention in Alberta was extended and accepted. Before an invitation was extended that the National Convention be held in Alberta, the Executive met with Dr. Ballantyne, Deputy Minister of Agriculture to discuss the situation. He assured them that if the invitation were accepted, the Department would co-operate to the fullest to make this an outstanding occasion. By RECOMMENDATION at the 1971 Provincial Convention, it was agreed that the 1973 A.W.I. Convention be held at Banff, prior to the National Convention and that it be a business session only. Months went into the planning and re-planning on how to manage two Conventions together. The idea was that as many Alberta members as possible should be given an opportunity to attend a National Convention, to meet and share with women across Canada. Of necessity, the Provincial portion was a Mini Convention - just half a day. The financial statement was received, the election of 34 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE officers took place and a Memorial Service was held. Many members were happy to have been given the opportunity of attending part or all of the F.W.I.C. Convention. New friendships were made, viewpoints exchanged and horizons broadened. Note must be made of the great support, financial and otherwise that our organization received from the Government, other agencies and individuals to make this endeavor the success it was. Even the weather was ideal - a fall of snow the first morning which was soon gone, and the rest of the week warm, pleasant and everyone will remember. beautiful - something A.W.I. CONVENTION - ERIC HARVEY THEATRE, BANFF JUNE 18, 1973 PRESIDENT: MRS. MARION ALEXANDER The 1973 Convention was of necessity only a half day and only urgent business was dealt with. A short Memorial Service was held following the official opening. Mrs. Merlin (Ruby) Shields, Editor of Home and Country for eight years resigned and Mrs. T. C. Heninger of Cardston was appointed as the new Editor. All resolutions and Notice of Motions were tabled until the next Convention to be held in 1974. A Creative Writing Award Plaque was presented by the Edmonton- Victoria-Sturgeon Constituency to honor Mrs. A. H. Rogers. Mrs. Alexander accepted this plaque and Mrs. Grace Mensinger of Grand Prairie was the first winner of the award. Mrs. Rogers unable to be present sent her greetings to the Convention. Mrs. J. T. Morrisroe was elected to the office of President by acclamation. Mrs. Melvin Ballhorn was elected 1st Vice President and Mrs. Harold Lefsrud 2nd Vice President. FEDERATED CONVENTION: The Federated Convention followed the Provincial Session and many of the Alberta delegates were able to attend at least for one day. The theme "For Home and Country" unfolded under the chairmanship of Mrs. Marion Fulton, F.W.I.C. President. One of the highlights of the Federated Convention was "Alberta Day" when delegates and visitors were taken via bus to view Lake Louise, Emerald Lake and Yoho Valley. The last night all enjoyed a pit barbecue at the Indian grounds with music, singing and dancing. The Banquet Speaker was Dr. Hugh Horner, Alberta's Deputy Premier and Minister of Agriculture who proudly stated Alberta's position in the family of Canada. At the Banquet, Mrs. Ethel Morrisroe, newly elected President of A.W.I. paid tribute to the R.C.M.P. who were celebrating their Centennial Year. Two red-coated 35 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE R.C.M.P. Officers were guests. Mrs. Morrisroe, with facts and humor, related the history of this renowned Force and compared its work to that of our own Institutes - working for "Home and Country" . The keynote speaker of the Convention was Mrs. Edna Clark, Policy and Liason Secretariat, Alberta Department of Agriculture. She spoke on the Changing Roles of Women and the many challenges facing them which can be met with education, common sense and working together. The value of such a Convention is that Alberta women were able to meet women from all the other Provinces. One highlight on the program was "The Provinces Present" when programs from across Canada were exchanged. For the session on A.C.W.W. many of the women came dressed in ethnic costumes. This portion of the program opened yet another phase of involvement for Women's Institute members. 36 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE MRS. JAMES T. (ETHEL) MORRISROE Ethel Morrisroe was born, raised and schooled in the Ridgewood District, west of Penhold and attended High School in Red Deer. She took teacher training at Camrose Normal School and taught in the Red Deer area for five years before her marriage to James Morrisroe. They raised a family of three children, a son and two daughters. Their farm home was on the outskirts of Red Deer for a number of years but the city grew and enveloped their land to form "Morrisroe Subdivision". They now reside three miles east of Red Deer. Ethel joined the Ridgewood Women's Institute in 1947 and the Clearview Branch in 1949. She has held offices at all levels including /. Branch President, Red Deer Centre Constituency Convener, District Director and Vice President, each for a term offour years. In 1973 she was elected Provincial President. She served a two year term but was unable to continue for another term as President. She has attended four Federated Conventions as well as four A.C.W.W. Conferences. In October 1974 she was the leader of the Alberta delegation to the A.C.W.W. Conference in Perth, Australia. Besides her duties as President and a busy farmer's wife she has served on the Red Deer Exhibition Board, Twilight Lodge Associates, the local Board of the Y.W.C.A. and is a member of the local Lioness Club. In recognition of "Inter national Women's Year 1975" she was honored to be chosen the first woman to officially open the Red Deer Exhibition as well as leading the parade on opening day. She considers this honor as one of the highlights of her life. Her leisure time is filled with reading and pursuing her favorite hobby, needlework. Her needlework efforts were rewarded when her originally designed colored embroidered teacloth won first prize in the Provincial Salada Tea Competitions. Her recreational interests include curling and bridge when time permits. TERM OF OFFICE-1973-1975 Mrs. Morrisroe's slogan for her term is "Action-Involvment-Growth". She feels that through "Action and Involvement" on current issues affecting members as individuals and voicing opin37 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE ions through presentations of briefs, completing questionaires and conducting surveys as well as participation in workshops and seminars comes growth in knowledge and hopefully increased membership. She is enthusiastic about the work that can be done as a follow up to Canada's Nutrition Survey thus "Nutrition Alberta" is her idea for an educational program to help Albertans to better health. Her aim is to have the Institutes continue as a voluntary organization for the purpose they were originally organized i.e. to educate the homemakers and to provide a community service. A.W.I. Projects during her term included: "The Story of A.W.I." to be updated from 1955 to 1975 as a 65th Anniversary Project. "Duties and Directives Booklet" to be compiled as a source of reference to acquaint newly elected officers as to their duties as well as directives related to their respective offices. "Standing Committee Chairmen" to become more actively involved in planning and directing study programs for Institute members. Toward this end "Leadership and Learning Workshops" were conducted during the annual Council meetings in January when Specialists from the.Home Economics Department of Extension outlined programs available to organizations through their Department. The "Parliamentary Procedure Workshop" to assist Officers in conducting Institute business in a proper manner at their Conferences included Motions, Nominations, Elections, Resolutions, etc. Standing Committee Chairmen were given the opportunity to suggest topics for study and submit ideas on how to promote more interesting educational programs. At the 1974 Workshop Mrs. J. Bielish, Chairman of Northern Canada Women's Institutes brought native women to Edmonton. They attended mainly as observers but also to exchange ideas. Mrs. Morrisroe attended an Agricultural Executive meeting of the Department of Agriculture and voiced her concersn re: the limitations placed on judging of A.W.I. handicrafts by Home Economists. She also stressed the need for more government sponsored programs for volunteers and suggested that the government contact Institutes when a survey was required or a representative was needed on an advisory committee. Food Price questionnaires were circulated in the Constituencies to be completed and returned to the Federated Conveners. Also an opinion was requested and mailed re "Canada's Future Immigration Policy" . Liz Spanier was sponsored to a Drama Workshop in Red Deer. It is hoped that through this sponsorship another avenue may be open to members. Mrs. Morrisroe accepted the Merit Award presented by the Mental Health Association in Edmonton on behalf of A.W.I. for the 38 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE work they had done throughout the years for the mentally ill with special mention for their participation in the "Light Up For Mental Health" candle sale. Mrs. Morrisroe presented the annual award of$50.00 at the Olds College Graduation ceremonies to the student most proficient in the Secretarial Arts. A similar award is presented annually to each of the Colleges at Vermilion and Fairview. She was guest speaker at the annual Girl's Club Conventions at Olds and commends the dedicated leaders and supervisors for the instruction they give the girls in sewing, handicraft, creative writing and public speaking. She feels it most important that a President endeavors to attend as many Constituency Conferences as possible. Besides being an enjoyable experience it gives her an opportunity to meet the members and to learn what is being done in the various areas. The highlights during her term of office were the $25,000.00 Grant received from the Provincial Government and the establishment of a Provincial Office. In January 1975 the Executive accompanied by Mrs. J. Bielish interviewed Dr. H. Horner, Minister of Agriculture to request a Grant to assist our Organization with its educational programs. In March 1975 word was received that a Grant of $25,000.00 was given to A.W.I. The Government announcement stated the major purpose of the Grant was to assist in further developing the Leadership this pioneer organization exerts through its two hundred Branches and three thousand members. It stated that the correspondence program in Nutrition currently featured by A. W.I. emphasizes a priority item of the Government. The Grant was given in recognition of the dedication of A.W.I. to the women and families of rural Alberta and is a mark of confidence in their ability to use leadership and innovation to develop better ways to organize and involve rural families in planning their fl.ltnre. In April 1975 it was a momentous occasion when the five year lease for the Provincial Office was signed by Mrs. J. Morrisroe, President and Mrs. G. McMillan, Secretary Treasurer of A.W.I. Office space was acquired at #201 7203 - 101 Avenue, Edmonton at a monthly rental of $250.00 to include rent, heat and one stall for parking. A.W.I. pays the telephone, electricity and janitor service. A.W.I. is indebted to Mr. and Mrs. G. McMillan for their many hours of work in readying the office for occupancy. Mrs. Ruby Ritchie, the new Secretary Treasurer was to commence duties August 1st, 1975 at a salary of $450.00 with a car allowance of $25.00. Office hours were to be from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 and 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Wednesdays will be kept for meetings if necessary. A.W.I. seraiette were ordered and are available for special Institute functions. Special Anniversary Certificates were made up for Branches celebrating their 25th and 60th Anniversaries. Memorial Cards are also available. Branches celebrating their 50th Anniversaries included: Lone 39 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE Pine; Veteran; Grande Prairie; Stettler; Rugby; Glendale; Sylvan Lake; Majestic Farrell. Branches celebrating their 60th Anniversaries include: Clearview; Vermilion; Mountain View; Winterburn; D.E.L. and Conjuring Creek. A new Branch "Antelope Ridge" at Magrath was organized with fourteen members. Several A.W.I. Girl's Clubs were organized during the two year term. Mrs. Morrisroe has attended the F.W.I.C. Board meetings in Ottawa as Senior Board Member for A.W.I. The Project for A.W.I.1975 was "Nutrition Education" with a series of lessons compiled by the Nutrition Specialist and mailed to the Branches for study. The culmination was a Poster Competition limited to Constituencies. A special function attended was the opening of the R.C.M.P. Centennial Senior Citizen's Recreation Centre in St. Albert. The St. Albert Women's Institute had received a Grant of $20,000.00 from the Centennial fund and through the efforts of its members erected the building. Mrs. Morrisroe on behalf of A.W.I. presented a painting to be hung in the building. A short term project was adopted by A.W.I. when an appeal was made through UNICEF requesting donations for a "Pump for an Ethiopian Village". $65.00 would buy a pump which would provide enough water for a village. An appeal for donations was made with good response and in a short time $425.00 was collected and mailed to headquarters. This was enough to buy at least six pumps. ASSOCIATED COUNTRY WOMEN OF THE WORLD (ACWW): In 1974 Mrs. Morrisroe as leader of the Alberta Women's Institutes delegation numbering fourteen attended the 14th Triennial Conference in Perth, Australia. Of this number six carried a vote. The Conference theme was "A World to Share" and over 1500 delegates attended. The ACWW project is a continuation of "Save the Sight" campaign along with a trust fund set up for "Leadership and Nutrition Education". The next Conference is to be held in Kenya, Africa in 1977. Members are reminded that ACWW Contributing Membership is increased to two pounds sterling and that the subscription to the "Country-woman" is one pound sterling. "Pennies for Friendship" donations from A.W.I. sent to ACWW for the two year term totalled $1300.00. Mrs. Morrisroe feels her work as President has been challenging, interesting, time consuming yet rewarding. She is satisfied that the slogan for her term has been partially fulfilled. There has definitely been action and involvement and there has been a marked increase in membership though the growth is offset by some loss due to disbandin~ of Branches. Her tireless efforts, her good humor, patience and mterest to involve Institutes in worthwhile endeavors will help carry A.W.I. into another era. 40 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA 65th ANNIVERSARY CONVENTION JUNE 3-6, 1974 THEME: "YESTERDAY WOMEN'S INSTITUTE OLDS COLLEGE -TODAY-TOMORROW" It was a Convention of festive celebrations, reminiscing, good fellowship, informative discussions, active participation and excellent speakers. An informal atmosphere was maintained throughout the day. All enjoyed the cafeteria style meals and the spacious and beautiful college grounds. The Past Presidents who attended included: Mrs. A. B. McGorman, Penhold (1949-1953); Mrs. T. H. Howes, Millet (1955-1959); Mrs. W. R. Ford, Coutts (1959-1961); Mrs. M. G. Roberts, Drumheller (1961-1965); Mrs. J. Bielish, Warspite (1965-1969); Mrs. C. Alexander, Cayley (1969-1973). It was disappointing that Mrs. J. P. Ferguson, Trochu (1938-1937) and Mrs. W. M. Stewart, Peace River (1937-1941) and Mrs. S. Lefsrud, Viking (1953-1955) were unable to attend. Of the fifteen Past Presidents who have served during the sixty-five years six are deceased. The Past Presidents attending were introduced during the afternoon session of the first day. They were honored guests at the banquet and each was presented with a corsage. Following the banquet each gave the highlights of her term. A skit "65 Years in Review" was a highlight of the evening program. It portrayed history in music, dance, song and action in eras from 1909-1974 to include the formative years, the roaring twenties, the depressing thirties, the war years, the prosperous years and through the centennial year up to the present time, the seventies. Activities, accomplishments and projects were mentioned. Mrs. Lynne Fair and Mrs. Celia Taylor sang songs of each era with Mrs. Mary Mercer accompanying at the piano. Because 1974 is the Centennial of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police in Alberta, tribute to them was given by Mrs. J. T. Morrisroe and accepted by Cpl. W. M. Patzwold of the Olds Detachment. A 65th Anniversary souvenir plate designed by Mrs. J. Bielish was sold at the Convention. It proved a popular sales item. The fifty dozen ordered were soon sold and more were ordered. In all 1400 were sold. An excellent display of handicraft was enjoyed by the delegates. Mrs. J. Bielish, Chairman of Northern Canada Women's Institutes with the help of slides showed the work of our Women's Institute members in the North. Presentation of Handicraft, Quilt and Creative Writing awards proved an exciting time for the recipients. A quilt donated by the Kinniburgh Branch to be raffled netted $864.00. The money from the ticket sales was donated to the Provincial Office Fund. The Memorial Service in remembrance of departed members was most impressive. 41 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE SPEAKERS: MR. CAL BRANDLEY: Legal Specialist with the Provincial Department of Agriculture spoke on the "Legal Rights of Women". He said Alberta women are fortunate they have many favorable legal rights by law. In some areas they have greater help and protection than men but in other areas they are discriminated against. It is in these areas women should study and become involved to make the necessary changes. This speaker was well received because of the present Women's Institute concern re "The Matrimonial Property Law" (particularly with the present unfair disposal of property in cases of separation and divorce). He also explained the differences between joint tenants and tenants in common. He advised women to keep informed about laws affecting them. MRS. JANICE LAUMAN: Regional Food and Nutritional Specialist with the Department of Agriculture. In her presentation "Don't Eat Your Heart Out" she used facts and figures from the recently conducted "Nutrition Canada Survey". The surveys showed that Canadians as a nation are overweight, under nourished and unfit. Pressures and stress factors are increasing due to women becoming more involved. She urged Nutrition and Physical Fitness Workshops at community level. The Extension Department offered their assistance in this worthwhile project. Her talk was of general interest since it served as an ideal introduction for the planned study program in "Nutrition Alberta". Mrs. W. Sparrow, A.W.I. Girl's Club Supervisor reported twenty-three active Clubs of girls between the ages of six and seventeen years who work on the five point program. Her report concluded with a display of crafts made during the year. The "Pennies for Friendship" march netted $128.00. "DISTRICT DIRECTORS DISCOURSE": This showed area interest in Preventative Social Services; a Retreat for Women; the compiling of Community Histories; more organized workshops and increased publicity of Institute achievements. One Director urged that more Institutes support an adopted Foster Child. Another Director favored the organizing of a Homemaker Service for the Community, e.g. Home Care in case of illness. STANDING COMMITEE CONVENERS: They urged that members study the Canada Nutrition Survey; be informed on Laws affecting Women; be aware ofrules and regulations re the use of insecticides, pesticides and herbicides; be more environment conscious. One Convener suggested a study of Au42 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE stralia since the 1974 Conference was to be held there. Institute members were urged to correspond with Alberta's twin province-N ewfoundland. RESOLUTIONS: Passed. Re: GOVERNMENT GRANTS: That A.W.I. Executive take steps to obtain Provincial Grants to assist the organization in carrying out its aims and objectives. Re: OBSENITIES: That A.W.I. request the Attorney General of the Province of Alberta to impose stricter censorship on all programs, whether they are on radio, television, shown in theatres or live productions. Re: JUDGING OF CRAFTS: That A.W.I. Contact Mrs. Vera Macdonald, Head of Home Economics Branch, Department of Agriculture requesting that judging services by the Home Economists be retained and that each Branch write requesting that these services of the Home Economists be retained. Re: RAIL ABANDONMENT: That A.W.I. request the Alberta and Federal Governments review proposals of rail line abandonment and to press for better services for movement of farm products and for passenger service in southern Alberta. Re: MATRIMONIAL PROPERTY LAWS: That A.W.I. request the Federal and Provincial Governments to amend the Marriage Laws so that on the dissolution of a marriage, either by legal separation or by divorce, the assets accumulated during that marriage be divided equally between husband and wife. A.W.I. CONVENTION AT OLDS COLLEGE CONVENTION THEME-"INTERNATIONAL "EQUALITY, DEVELOPMENT, JUNE 9-12, 1975 WOMEN'S YEAR" PEACE" The Convention was preceded by a "Leadership Workshop" for all Executive Officiers, Directors, Standing Committee Conveners and Constitutency Conveners. A portion of the Government Grant financed this Workshop. Mr. H. R. Simmermon, Rural Development was in charge of the Workshop "Developing Progress to Meet Present Community Needs." Guidelines were given as to what constituted a good educational program to be implemented by Branch Institutes in rural areas. At the opening ceremonies remarks by the President, Mrs. J. T. Morrisroe related to "International Women's Year: which was an innovation of the United Nations. She explained the IWY symbol as that of a stylized dove representing "Peace". Included in the symbol is the equality sign and the biological symbol for woman i.e. a circle and a cross. It is a time to recognize the contributions made to society by women in the past. 1975 is the chosen year to inspire women to achieve and develop themselves to their fullest potential. 43 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE It is a time for dynamic action and to promote equality but she warned, et quote, Flora McDonald: "We do not want to see Women's Rights" advanced to the detriment of the role of Mother and Housewife since that role is still the key to our Society today". Honored guest attending the Convention was Mrs. J. McLean, Nova Scotia, the President of the Federated Women's Institutes of Canada. CONVENTION SPEAKERS INCLUDED: Mary Lou Armstrong, representing the Library Action Committee. She expressed a need for improved Library Services in Alberta, stating that twenty five percent ofthe population have no access to a library and that some schools do not have any libraries. She requested that A.W.I. write Mr. Horst Schmidt, Provincial Minister in charge of Libraries, expressing our support for improved library services. Honorable Helen Hunley, banquet guest speaker spoke about the "Role of Voluntary Organizations in today's Society": She expressed a continuing need for organizations of volunteers such as the Women's Institutes. She stated there is a trend in evidence today that Government~ will be expected to do some funding for the volunteer organizations in the future. Mrs. J. McLean, F.W.I.C. President commended the provinces across Canada for the work each is doing in its particular area and stressed that Institute members have an important role to play now and in the future. She commented that women are opinion builders with power to bring about changes by standing together demanding action. She urged women to support women running for political offices because of their capabilities. She urged that we be aware of laws affecting women and stressed that responsibility goes hand in hand with rights and that we should let the World know there are still women who believe in a strong society. Mrs. Martha Bielish, Chairman of the Northern Canada Women's Institutes spoke about the Institutes in the North (now diminished to only three, two Branches in the North West Territories and one in the Yukon). She stated that the native people are uniting trying to get their land claims settled while the women are getting involved in obtaining their rights and are thus too busy to be interested in homemaking-thus the reason for the fewer Institutes in the North. Mrs. Morrisroe expressed her appreciation of being given the opportunity to represent A.W.I. at the ACWW Conference in Perth, Australia, October 8-18, 1974. She gave a short commentary about what transpired at the Conference and showed slides taken at the Conference and of her travels throughout Australia and New Zealand following the Conference. There were 604 articles on display in the Handicraft rooms. "Pennies for Friendship" netted $175.37. 44 HISTORY Alberta SUPPLEMENT Women's Institutes OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE Business: PROVINCIAL OFFICE: Mrs. Morrisroe outlined the progress of the Office from the time it was first set up in 1971 with the office in the Secretary Treasurer's home during the transition period. Office space was leased in April of 1975. Mrs. Ruby Ritchie was hired as Secretary Treasurer. Due to the untiring efforts of Mr. and Mrs. G. McMillan the office was ready for occupancy just prior to the Convention. At last a long time dream has become a reality. A Provincial Office has been established for the first time out of the Secretary's home. GOVERNMENT GRANT: Delegates were told of the $25,000.00 Grant given to A.W.I. to finance educational programs throughout the rural areas. To date part of the Grant has been used to mail the Nutrition lessons to the Branches, to finance the Leadership Workshop preceding the Alberta Women's Week July 21-25 at Olds College. Delegates divided into discussion groups to suggest ideas for future programs that would benefit the whole community rather than just Institute members. Mrs. C. Alexander was congratulated on her appointment as Canada's "Frysinger Fellowship" representative to visit the U.S.A. for a month in September to learn about the aims and objectives of another ACWW Constituent Society. Mrs. Kay Rockwell, the U.S.A. exchange will visit Canada to learn about our ACWW Societies. Mrs. Martha Bielish was the recipient of a special award in recognition of IWY. She was presented with "Woman of the Year Award", a special engraved plaque for her contributions to A.W.I. through the years. The culmination of the Nutrition Study was a Poster Competition with only Constituencies competing. The response was gratifying when 30 out of 33 Constituencies participated. The colorful posters on display at the Convention portrayed an idea learned in Nutrition. Mrs. J. Woodrow, Lacombe Women's Institute was presented with a gift for achieving a record of twenty eight years perfect attendance in her Branch. Four hundred members and representatives attended the evening banquet. The Convention concluded with the outgoing President installing the new Executive. Gifts were presented to the retiring Officers. RESOLUTIONS: Passed. That a term of office for elected officers would be three years. That Provincial Conventions would be held annually. (necessitating changes in the Constitution) That capital punishment be carried out according to the laws of Canada. That A.W.I. support the Provincial Agriculture Soils from 45 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE further encroachment by urban housing and industrial expansion. That A.W.I. request that the selling of junk foods be prohibited in all schools be it vending machine or school stores. That such items as pop, chocolate bars, potato chips, etc. be replaced by more nutritive foods such as milk, cheese, raisins, fresh fruit, peanuts and fruit juices. That A.W.I. make representation to Governor-in-Council to request that the Canada Pension Plan be amended so that Housewives may make contributions to the Pension Fund and thus be entitled to the benefits thereunder. Due to an increase in crime and violence in our society and pornography off the air in prime time. That a committee be appointed to study and make recommendations for some form of recognition for members over eighty years of age who have given long service. Due to lack of adequate farm labor thus necessitating the farmer's wives to assist in the farm operation and since $1,492.00 only is allowed for income tax reduction be it resolved that legislation be passed whereby both spouses of the farming operation have the option to enter into a partnership and be treated as such under the Income Tax Act. 46 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE OFFICERS " President Vice President Secretary Treasurer Directors Mrs. , Mrs. Mrs. Mrs. ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE 1955 - 1957 T. H. Howes, Millet W. R. Ford, Coutts R. W. Prendergast, Red Deer L. D. Smith, Penhold , Mrs. D. S. Hayden, High Prairie Mrs. Joseph Bielish, Warspite Mrs. J. R. Graham, Ponoka Mrs. C. L. Alexander, Cayley Mrs. M. G. Roberts, Drumheller OFFICERS President Vice President Secretary Treasurer Directors , , Mrs. T. H. Howes, Millet Mrs. W. R. Ford, Coutts Mrs. J. Hannah, Drumheller , Mrs. H. Marshall, Edmonton Mrs. N. Hnatiuk, Grande Prairie Mrs. J. Bielish, Warspite Mrs. John Richards, Red Deer Mrs. C. L. Alexander, Cayley Mrs. M. G. Roberts, Drumheller OFFICERS President Vice President Secretary , Mrs. , H. Marshall, Edmonton Mrs. N. Hnatiuk, Grande Prairie Mrs. S. E. Thorne, Fort Saskatchewan Mrs. John Richards, Red Deer Mrs. H. Haney, Picture Butte Mrs. G. S. Wilson, Drumheller OFFICERS President Vice President Secretary Treasurer Directors 1959 - 1961 , Mrs. W. R. Ford, Coutts Mrs. M. G. Roberts, Drumheller Mrs. James Richards, Red Deer Treasurer Directors 1957 - 1959 '''''''''''''' , 1961 - 1963 , Mrs. M. G. Roberts, Drumheller Mrs. John Richards, Red Deer Mrs. James Richards, Red Deer , Mrs. Harry Marshall, Edmonton Mrs. F. Anthony, Fairview Mrs. S. E. Thorne, Fort Saskatchewan Mrs. C. A. Quail, Round Hill Mrs. C. L. Alexander, Cayley Mrs. G. S. Wilson, Drumheller 47 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE OFFICERS President Vice President Secretary Treasurer Directors WOMEN'S INSTITUTE 1963 -1965 , Mrs. M. G. Roberts, Drumheller Mrs. J. Bielish, Warspite Mrs. R. A. Leadley, Edmonton Mrs. H. Marshall, Edmonton Mrs. F. Anthony, Fairview Mrs. R. J. Whitson, Mannville Mrs. C. A. Quail, Round Hill Mrs. Gerald Newman, Blackie Mrs. Alex Robertson, Carstairs OFFICERS President Vice President Secretary Treasurer Directors ALBERTA 1965 - 1967 Mrs. J. Bielish, Warpsite ".. Mrs. Carl Alexander, Cayley Mrs. C. A. Quail, Round Hill Mrs. George McMillan, Edmonton Mrs. H. Hnatiuk, Grande Prairie Mrs. R. J. Whitson, Edmonton Mrs. J. T. Morrisroe, Red Deer Mrs. Gerald Newman, Blackie Mrs. J. H. Hosegood, Didsbury OFFICERS President """,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, Vice President Secretary Treasurer , Directors Mrs. J. Bielish, Warspite Mrs. Carl Alexander, Cayley Mrs. Chester Oxtoby, Olds Mrs. George McMillan, Edmonton Mrs. H. Hnatiuk, Grande Prairie Mrs. Harold Lefsrud, Viking Mrs. J. T. Morrisroe, Red Deer Mrs. J. Holland, Lethbridge Mrs. J. H. Hosegood, Didsbury OFFICERS President , Vice President ." Secretary Treasurer Directors ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,, 1967 - 1969 1969 - 1971 Mrs. C. L. Alexander, Cayley Mrs. J. T. Morrisroe, Red Deer Mrs. Chester Oxtoby, Olds Mrs. George McMillan, Edmonton Mrs. Mrs. Mrs. Mrs. Mrs. H. Tattrie, Brownvale Harold Lefsrud, Viking Harold Hillaby, Camrose J. Holland, Lethbridge Dave Silver, Huxley 48 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE OFFICERS ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE 1971 - 1973 Mrs. C. L. Alexander, Cayley President """"""""'"'''' Vice President Mrs. J. T. Morrisroe, Red Deer Vice President Mrs. R. J. Whitson, Edmonton Secretary-Treasurer ... Mrs. George McMillan, Edmonton Directors Mrs. Mrs. Mrs. Mrs. Mrs. Wm. Plaizier, Peace River Vera Holt, Sangudo Harold Hillaby, Camrose Gordon Habberfield, Langdon Dave Silver, Huxley OFFICERS President ""'"'''''''''''''''' 1st Vice President 2nd Vice President Secretary-Treasurer Directors 1973 - 1975 Mrs. J. T. Morriseroe, Mrs. Melvin Ballhorn, Mrs. Harold Lefsrud, Red Deer Wetaskiwin Edmonton ... Mrs. George McMillan, Edmonton Mrs. Wm. Plaizier, Peace River Mrs. V. Holt, Sangudo Mrs. V. Toffelmire, Veteran Mrs. G. C. Habberfield, Langdon Mrs. H. Richardson, Didsbury 49 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S ALBERTA INSTITUTES 1955 - 1974 WOMEN'S INSTITUTE GIRLS' CLUBS he story of the Alberta Women's Institutes (1909-1955), written by Mrs. Cornelia Wood, included a section on A.W.I. Girls' Clubs T from the time the first Club was organized in 1918 up to and includingthe 34th annual Convention held atOlds in July 1954. Space does not permit announcement of all competition winners at each Convention, however all are recorded in the A.W.I. Report Book published biennially. A.W.I. has a responsibility to the Girls' Clubs because it was through them it was created. It is their responsibility to support them financially as well as give moral support and show interest in them by providing leadership and attending Conferences and Achievement Days. Voluntary contributions from Institute Branches to the Girls' Club Fund assist the girls to attend Conventions who would otherwise be unable to attend. For years the Girls' Club received a grant of$150.00 from A.W.I. plus $50.00 for the printing ofthe Convention Report. Today A.W.I. gives them a $500.00 grant annually, this amount to include the printing of the Report Book. Membership was .25~ for years but is now .50~ per member. Age of members range from six years to eighteen years, accepting all nationalities and religious denominations. The A.W.I. Girls' Club Supervisor is appointed by A.W.I. and she chooses her own assistant. It is their duty to plan the Con vention and mail Newsletters regularly. The Girls' Club President is elected annually at the Convention. The Secretary for the Convention is the one who sends in the best Club Secretary's reports during the year. She will have all expenses paid to the Convention at Olds. The Club uniform is a white blouse for "Purity" and the green skirt symbolizes "Loyalty". The Club Crest is worn on the left shoulder. At one time a green and white beanie was worn but it is no longer a part of the uniform. They have Club spoons and pins. The Club colors are white and green. Scholarships for years included a $50.00 Scholarship awarded to a member or a former member of the Club toward her University Education. (First winner of this award was Audrey Chaba, Redwater, who entered the Fall Term to take Home Economics). A $75.00 Alberta Wheat Pool Scholarship was awarded to a girl who is planning on entering one of the three Colleges in the Province. CLUB PROGRAM: The Club's five point Program includes a study of Social Services, Health, Citizenship, Agrilculture and Home Economics with sessions on Handicraft and Public Speaking, as well as additional activities for girls interested in cultural pursuits. Club meetings include demonstrations, sewing, crafts, practice public speaking, scrap book making, short story and poetry writing. Members learn how to conduct a meeting, how to become good hostesses and how to 50 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE conduct themselves in public. They have seasonal parties, hikes and Mother and Daughter banquets. At the end of the year they have Achievement Days to which the Mothers are invited. Throughout the year merits are given each member for attendance, appearance, behaviour, committee work and Club activities. The two girls with the highest merits at the end of June have earned the privilege of attending the Convention at OIds. Supervisors of individual Clubs are given merit awards at the Convention for "Years of Service". They are presented with Certificates on which are designated the number of years of service. CONVENTION: The Conventions are held at the Olds College annually the first part of July. The Convention is a Leadership and Learning session with participation in competitions and sports as well as good fellowship. They "Learn to do By Doing". They learn to model and perform in public with confidence, i.e. a former public speaking winner, a Japanese girl has taken journalism and is now writing for papers in the East. The usual sequence of events include a tour of the grounds and the greenhouses on arrival with a "Get Acquainted Party" in the evening. Following the official opening the group is divided into classes to include instruction in Deportment, Nursing, Cooking, Handicraft, Horticulture, Leadership, Fashion Show, etc. by volunteer instructors. The girls compete for several awards. Marks are given for everyone who makes an attempt or endeavor to participate in all projects. Competitions include, sports (Jumps, Races, Games); Public Speaking (judged and followed by comments and constructive criticism); Short Stories and Poetry (judged on neatness and creative ability); Room inspection (judged on neatness, cleanliness and bedmaking with both girls and Supervisors participating); Secretary Scholarship (direction is given on the structure of a good report); Handicraft (the Club receiving the most points in handicraft); Art (choice of any subject or media, stress originality); Proficiency (for Club obtaining the highest overall points); Program Books (a calendar of meetings held through the year) and Scrap Books or Posters on the five point program. The winners are presented the awards following the banquet. FASHION PARADE: The girls model the clothes made in the Club during the year, and this is followed by a formal tea with members of the cooking class serving sandwiches and cookies. The afternoon Sports Competition is followed by a picnic supper. The evening entertainment may be an Amateur Hour or a Masquerade Party. Awards for the Masquerade were given to the best National, Original, Comic, Novel and Group costumes. (A most interesting party was when each represented a Story Book Character). 51 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE The banquet concludes the Convention. Following the banquet the awards and presentations are made. The evening usually concludes with a party or Amateur Hour. The Fashion Parade and the Amateur Hour are not judged. The Five Point Program is also displayed but not judged. A.W.I. GIRLS' CLUBS SCHOLARSHIPS: AWARDS: Scholarship - The Secretary who sends in the best secretary reports will have all expenses paid to the W.I.G.C. Convention at aIds where she will act as Convention Secretary. Beginning in 1967, a silver cup donated by Toby Penner, Shell Oil Agent, Didsbury is for the annual competition of the Club Secretaries. 1. Secretary TROPHIES: 1. Proficiency Trophy - This trophy was donated by Radio Station CFCN, Calgary and is awarded to the W.I.G. Club with the highest number of points accumulated at the W.I.G.C. Convention at Olds. 2. Handicraft Cup - Donated by Hilite Printing and awarded to the Club with the highest average of points on handicraft brought to aids. 3. Sports Trophy - Was presented to the W.I.G.C. by Judge Emily Murphy and is awarded to the Club with the highest points in the sports competition. 4. Public Speaking Trophies - There are three classes in Public Speaking, Junior receive a silver cup donated by CFCN; Intermediate a trophy donated by Peter Nitz, Jeweller of Lethbridge; Senior is a large trophy and an individual trophy donated by Calgary Power. The large Senior trophy is competed for annually. The Junior and Intermediate trophies are kept for one year by the winner and passed on the next year. by 5. Public Speaking Trophy (Cornelia R. Wood) - presented Stony Plain-Lac Ste. Anne A.W. I. Constituency to public speaker with the highest percentage out of the three classes. 6. Short Story - the original trophy was donated by Mrs. J. A. Rodell and is awarded to the girl who writes the best original story, preferably in a Canadian setting. 7. Poetry - Anna Erickson Trophy - donated by Anna Erickson of Glendon to be awarded to the writer of the overall winning poem. 8. Art Trophy - donated by Earl Philips ofDidsbury to be awarded to the overall winner. PRIZES: 1. Spoons better. will be given to all contestants 52 with a mark of nine or HISTORY SUPPLEMENT 2. Room prizes supervisors Convention. OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE - a small prize is to be given to the girls and who have kept their rooms the neatest during the A.W.I. GIRLS' CLUB CONVENTIONS 1955 - 1974 1955 1956 1957 1958 Supervisor, Mrs. L. D. Handley with Assistant, Mrs. B. Nolan. Mrs. Handley has the honor of being the first Provincial Supervisor of A.W.I. Girls' Clubs who was a former Girls' Club member. President, Peggy Gira, Brownvale Secretary, Irene Hoover, Worsley One hundred and eighty-two members and Supervisors attended representing forty-two clubs. Theme Song: Convention Chimes Club Slogan: "Kindly Speech Maketh Many Friends". Mr. Birdsall, Principal ofOlds School of Agriculture welcomed the group. Mrs. T. H. Howes, A.W.I. President spoke on the benefits of being a girls' club member and on Civil Defense, their study topic. Miss Clare Gardner of the Millet Mermaids won the A.W.I.G.C. University Scholarship. The Proficiency Trophy was won by the Sundial Sunbeams. Supervisor, Mrs. K. Swanson President, Maureen English, Eagle Hill One hundred and forty-two Club members and Supervisors attended. Mrs. T. Howes spoke about UNICEF and the Halloween Project which the girls support. She also spoke about Marjorie Golinski, a blind deafmute from Alberta who was attending a school in Nova Scotia. The girls send gifts of money and clothing to their adopted friend. The Proficiency Trophy was won by Warner Jolly Janes. The Handicraft Cup went to the Bancroft Buttercups. One hundred and twenty-five members attended this Convention. Miss Kremer showed slides and spoke on Civil Defense. Mrs. W. Ford, A.W.I. Vice President from Coutts, spoke about the United Nations. The Proficiency Trophy and the Handicraft Cup were won by the Bancroft Buttercups. Supervisor, Mrs. H. Odland, Enchant with Assistant, Mrs. E. Thurlow. President, Sheila Sterns, Carstairs Theme was "Smiles" while the Slogan was "Frowns are Like Thorns and Smiles are Like Roses". 53 HISTORY 1959 1960 1961 1962 SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE Mr. Scott gave a talk on photography and showed films on "Three Bruins Go Camping". Miss Cram, Deportment teacher gave a talk on "Banquet Etiquette" . The Proficiency Trophy was won by the Bancroft Buttercups. There was an attendance of one hundred and seven representing thirty-nine Clu bs with an overall membership of seven hundred. The Theme Song "Let the Sun Shine In" while the Slogan was "There's a Limit to our Achievements but None to our Attempt". The CFCN Proficiency Trophy went to the Bancroft Buttercups. Eileen Harper of the Melody Maids won the Secretary's award. There was an attendance of one hundred and nine girls and thirty Supervisors and Helga Firstenworth was the President. Theme Song "High Hopes" and the Slogan, "Reach High, There's Plenty of Room". Mrs. S. Thorne, District 2 Director spoke on behalf of A.W.I. Mrs. Durr gave a very interesting talk on "Beauty Culture" and demonstrated different hair styles. Members viewed the UNICEF Film by Danny Kaye. The Secretary's Scholarship was won by Donna Cipperley of the Lone Pine Orioles. The Proficiency Trophy and the Handicraft Cup also went to the Lone Pine Orioles. President, Bernice Gordeyko Theme "Spread a Little Sunshine" with the Slogan "Every Day is a New Beginning". The Supervisors both stress "What you put into your work is what you get out of it". Mrs. M. G. Roberts, A.W.I. President, spoke and outlined the history of the A.W.I. Girls' Clubs. Charters were presented to eight new Girls' Clubs. The Danish system of judging was used to judge the handicraft. Secretary's Scholarship was won by Enid Jones of the" Alberta Busy Beavers". The Proficiency Trophy and the Handicraft Cup were won by the Lone Pine Orioles. Supervisor, Mrs. H. Richardson, Didsbury with Assistant, Mrs. P. Houser. President, Jeanette Haderer for 1962 and 1963 One hundred and seventeen girls and Supervisors registered, representing twenty-eight Clubs with a membership of four hundred and eighty-two. The Provincial Supervisor stressed "You will only Get Out of this Convention What You Put Into It". 54 HISTORY 1963 1964 1965 SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE Theme Song "I've Got That Girls' Club Spirit" and the Slogan "Speak Kindly, words can heal or wound". Mrs. C. Quail, District 3 Director represented A.W.I. and spoke on the advantages of belonging to the Girls' Club and stresses the importance ofthe training and a good education. Mrs. Coates spoke on "Care of the Hair" and demonstrated the shampooing and setting of the hair. The Secretary's Scholarship was won by Linda Kozdrowski of the War spite Pathfinders. The Proficiency Trophy and Handicraft Cup were won by Bancroft Buttercups. President, Jeanette Johnson There were ninety-nine girls and thirty Supervisors attending, representing thirty-one Clubs with a membership of 742. Mrs. M. G. Roberts, President of A.W.I. and Mrs. G. Anthony, District 1 Director represented the Mother Institute. Mr. Maybank of Olds gave a demonstration on "Care of the Skin". A new craft was offered in "Seed Jewellery". The Secretary's Scholarship was won by Arlene Ziegler, of the Lone Pine Orioles. The Proficiency Trophy was won by the Lone Pine Orioles. The Handicraft Cup was a tie Between Warner Jolly Janes and the Lone Pine Orioles. One hundred and twenty-five members and thirty Supervisors attended. The Theme Song "The Happy Song" with the Slogan "All our Discontents Spring from Lack of Thankfulness". Mr. Wilton, Olds College used the A WIGC letters in his talk to describe the condition in which they would arrive home -"All Wiser, Invigorated, Gladdened and Collapsed". Craft instructions included Beach Bags and Wall Hangings. Lily Larter acted in the absence of President Rita Christensen. Mrs. Ken Wood spoke about Avon Beauty Aids. The Secretary's Scholarship was won by Leanne Herbst, Warner Jolly Janes. The Proficiency Trophy was won by Bancroft Buttercups. The Handicraft Cup was a four way tie. In the evening the girls viewed the striking window display in Marg's Dress Shop downtown. Vice President Lily Larter acted in the absence of the President. Theme Song "Do What You Do Well". The Supervisor stressed the importance of the saying "To Thine Own Self be Truthful". Craft classes included instructions in Drawn Fabric and Cross Stitch as well as making marble necklaces. Mrs. J. Bielish, A.W.I. President brought greetings and Mrs. 55 HISTORY 1966 1967 SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE Whitson's talk told about the "Highway of Life of a Club Member". Two hundred and fifty attended the banquet and the evening concluded with a Masquerade following the presentations. Joyce Underhay was the winner of the Secretary's Scholarship. She was a member of the Lone Pine Orioles. Proficiency Trophy and the Handicraft Cup were both won by the Warspite Pathfinders. In lieu of corsages the money was used to establish a Social Service project designed to set up and maintain Girls' Clubs in the North. To raise money the girls were encouraged to hold "Stay at Home Teas". The retiring Supervisors were presented with silver trays in appreciation of their work with the girls. Supervisor, Mrs. H. Hillaby with Assistant, Mrs. L. Blades, both ladies from Camrose. Ninety-six girls and twenty-five Supervisors attended the Convention, representing twenty-five active Clubs. President, Lily Larter Theme Song "Alberta" Theme "Our Alberta Heritage" and the Slogan "Courtesy, Courage and Co-operation". Mrs. C. Alexander, A.W.I. representative stressed the importance of dreaming. Welcome guests were Mrs. Isa King and Miss Enid Abraham from Guyana who spoke about their country, their customs and their people. As a special treat Mrs. King sang for the girls. Honorable Robert Clark, Alberta's Minister ofY outh spoke on how the Department was designed to help Youth. Cheri Jackson won the Secretary's Scholarship. The Proficiency Trophy was won by the Melody Maids. The Handicraft Cup was a tie between the Loyalist Lassies and the Melvin Meadowlarks. The largest Club in the Province is the Lethbridge Northern Busy Bees with a membership of thirty-eight. President, Lily Larter There were eighty-eight girls representing twenty-three active Clubs attending. Theme "This Land is Our Land". Mrs. C. Oxtoby, newly elected Provincial Secretary brought greetings from A.W.I. Mrs. Morrisroe, Director of District 3 donated two A WIGC spoons to be presented to the best models in the Fashion Show. Roxanne Palamarek of the Warspite Pathfinders and Lily Larter of the Lethbridge Busy Bees were the winners. A major item on the agenda was the revision of the Guide Book. It was decided that the beanie would be no longer a part of the Club uniform. Mr.s. G. Johnson, a former Supervisor of 56 HISTORY 1968 1969 SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE the Lone Pine Orioles obtained two new trophies for the Club. One to be awarded to the Secretary who wins the Scholarship with the other going to the best piece of Art work in all classes. Debbie Hannah of the Lone Pine Orioles was the winner of the Secretary's Scholarship. The Proficiency Trophy and the Handicraft Cup were both won by the Lethbridge Northern Busy Bees. Two AWIGC members had an all expense paid trip to Expo to a youth camp in Eastern Canada, courtesy Alberta Agriculture Centennial Committee. Lily Larter and Margaret McN aughton were the winners. Dianne Zukiwsky of the Warpsite Pathfinders and Judy Iwamota of the Lethbridge Northern Busy Bees attended Goldeye Camp. This was the Golden Anniversary of the Girls' Club and was held at the newly built Olds College and Dormitories. This was a celebration of fifty years of training young girls for" Home and Country". The Convention featured a tribute to the past, an evaluation of the present and a look into the future. Over one hundred girls and Supervisors representing eighteen Clubs registered. Mrs. Hillaby, Provincial Supervisor was assisted by her daughter, Mrs. D. Wieschorster, Strome in the absence of the Assistant Supervisor, Mrs. L. Blades. President, Lily Larterwas also unable to attend as she was on a singing tour of England. May Uyeda of the Lethbridge Northern Busy Bees won the Secretary's Scholarship. The Proficiency Trophy was won by the Melvin Meadowlarks. The Handicraft Cup was won by the Lone Pine Orioles. Mrs. J. Bielish, A.W.I. President was the guest speaker and was the recipient of an A.W.I. Girls' Club pin. The Masquerade featured girls dressed as characters from a story book with short skits. Following the banquet all adjourned to the auditorium to take part in and witness a Pageant - "Pendulum of Time" ending with an impressive candle lighting ceremony, thus honoring fifty years of Girls' Club work in Alberta. Ninety-three girls and Supervisors attended. President, Doreen Shultz. Mrs. C. Alexander, A.W.I. President represented the Mother Institute. Theme "Read, Listen and Remeber". Slogan "Don't Listen with Your Face Only". Inclement weather prevented having a Sports Competition but instead games and contests were held in the gymnasium. The masquerrade was to be the native costume of a country. The Proficiency Trophy was won by the Mountain View Jolly Juniors. Donna Hunter of the Mountainview Jolly Juniors won the 57 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE Secretary's Scholarship. The Handicraft Cup was won by the Coburnettes. 1970 Supervisor, Mrs. M. Harrop, Assistant, Mrs. Ann Wood, both ladies lived in the Peace River. President, Sheila McNaughton. There were eighty-nine girls representing twenty-three Clubs in attendance. Clubs are fewer than in past years but Clubs have larger membership. A newly reorganized Club in Worsley, 125 miles north and west of Peace River named the Merrymakers have thirty enthusiastic members. Three other newly organized Clubs at Millet, Wabamun and Sundre have a large membership. The Proficiency Trophy and the Handicraft Cup were won by the Moutain View Jolly Juniors. The Supervisors decided to establish an exchange program for travel whereby Senior Girls might be awarded exchange trips to different areas of the Province where they would be guests of a hosting Girls' Club Branch for a week. Mrs. J. Morrisroe, A.W.I. Vice President was banquet guest speaker and gave a most interesting illustrated talk "What Makes a Good Girls' Club Member". An Amateur Hour was presented to the guests and Club members following the banquet. 1971 President, Sheila McNaughton. There were delegates from every Club present with a total of one hundred and ten girls and Supervisors attending. Supervisors made many changes in the Athletic Program and the Compeition was changed from an individual one to a Club Competition. In the previous year Poetry was put on the list of Competitions. A trophy donated by Mrs. Anna Erickson, Supervisor for many years of the Merry Rowenas to be known as the "Anna Erickson Trophy" was also awarded for the first time to Shirley Nickel, a Junior from Samis Sunbeams. Guest speaker at the banquet, Mrs. J. T. Morrisroe, A.W.I. Vice President chose as her topic "A Good Citizen". Building good character is like building a house, both must have a firm foundation. The Proficiency Trophy and the Handicraft Cup were both won by the Merry Rowenas. Mary Rowell won the Secretary's Scholarship. There was no award for sports since inclement weather prevented the holding of competitions. 1972 President, Trudy Plaizier of Peace River There was a one hundred percent representation of Clubs with one hundred and eleven in attendance. Proficiency Trophy was won by the Coburnettes. Handicraft Cup was a three-way tie between the Coburnettes, the Merry Rowenas and the Millet Mermaids. Kathleen Pickard won the Secretary's Scholarship. 58 HISTORY 1973 1974 SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE For the first time the Sport's Trophy was given to a Club rather than to an individual with the Coburnettes winning the trophy. Guest speaker at the banquet was Mrs. Nellie Whitson, 2nd Vice President of A.W.I. Much discussion regarding a new edition of the Guide Book took place. So many changes have been made that the 1967 edition is outdated and difficult to decipher. Suggested revisions were requested to be in by July 1973. The summer of 1972 saw the first inter-Club exchange of members, with two girls from Alberta Busy Beavers visiting two Central Alberta Clubs, one visited Westward Ho Willing Workers and one visited the Bancroft Buttercups. President, Trudy Plaizier Theme: We are Better Citizens Because We Think and Do and Give. Slogan, "Growth in Tolerance, Compassion, Understanding and Knowledge". Twenty Clubs were represented at the Convention. Proficiency Trophy was won by the Judah Sweet Peas. The Handicraft Cup was awarded to the Glendon Merry Rowenas. Debbie Connery won the Secretary's Scholarship. She is from Worsley. Guest speaker at the banquet was Mrs. J. T. Morrisroe, A.W.I. President who spoke of the Unlimited Opportunities available to youth today. She urged each Club member to take advantage of every opportunity available. Cathy Watson of the Cosmos Centennials was awarded the Cornelia Wood Trophy for Public Speaking. Mrs. Harrop and Mrs. Wood were presented with spoons and trays in appreciation of their four years work with the Girls. Mrs. Betty Sparrow of Wabamun is the newly appointed Supervisor (Provincial) of the A.W.I. Girls' Clubs. Mrs. Marion Ivan is her assistant Supervisor. Mrs. Sparrow started with tenty clubs under her jurisdiction. Two new clubs have been organized, the Borderline Belles from Altario and the Greenwood Stampeders from North West Calgary. Two Women's Institutes have applied for an application to start Clubs. A revised edition of the Guide Book has been printed and circulated. A grant of $250.00 was received from the Department of Culture, Youth and Recreation to assist with the printing of the Guide Book. Four girls participated in the travel exchange spending a week with a different club. Congratulations go to the Bancroft Buttercups who celebrated their 25th Anniversary in AUg'ust, 1973. 59 HISTORY SUPPLEMENT OF THE ALBERTA WOMEN'S INSTITUTE The Theme of the 1974 Convention "Girls of Today, Women of Tomorrow" . Proficiency Trophy was won by the Lone Pine Orioles. Handicraft Cup awarded to the Merry Rowenas. Sports trophy to the Lone Pine Orioles. Ben Van Tetering of the Bancroft Buttercups won the Secretary's Scholarship. 60