Leaders Council meetings will be held the second Tuesday of every odd numbered month at 6:00 p.m. at the Extension Office. Special meetings may be called between regularly scheduled meetings and email notifications will be sent out to voting members in advance.

If you would like an item of business added to the agenda, please contact Rose Malisani, interim 4-H & Youth Development Agent at rose.malisani@montana.edu.

AGENDA AND MEETING PACKET

Orders of the Day

Call to Order

Keri Leggett

Pledges

Roll Call

Reading/Approval of Secretary’s Minutes

Jill Skinner

Reading of Correspondence

Jill Skinner

Reading of Treasurer’s Report

Janet Smith

Committee/Other Reports

Ambassador Report

 

Agent Report

Jenn Volkmar

Communications

Vacant

Foods & Nutrition

Fran Gossack

Sewing & Textiles

Fran Gossack

Record Book & Achievement

Fran Gossack

State Fair Planning

Jenn Volkmar

Green Clover Fundraiser

Keri Leggett

Sponsorship

Jenn Volkmar

Horse Leaders

Wendy Newman

Livestock Leaders

Jill Mackey

Shooting Sports Leaders

Samaria Kirby

Unfinished Business

  • Other

New Business

  • Other

For the Good of the Order

  • Share what fundraiser, event, etc., your club is doing
  • Share tips, tricks, strategies you are using to organize and lead your club that are working well that other club leaders could benefit from
    Club Leaders present at the table

Announcements

Next meeting 

Adjournment

Discussion/Decision on Meeting Adjournment

Agent Report:

 

Committee Reports

Ambassador Report:

 

Communications Report:

 

Foods and Nutrition Report:

 

Sewing and Textiles Report:

 

Record books and Achievement Report:

No report submitted.

State Fair Planning:

No report submitted.

Green Tie Affair Planning:

No report submitted.

Sponsorship:

No report submitted.

Horse Leaders:

No report submitted.

Livestock Leaders:

No report submitted.

Shooting Sports Leaders Committee Report:

No report submitted.

CURRENT 4-H YEAR MINUTES

UNAPPROVED

Call to Order:

The meeting was called to order by Vice President Brenda Canine at 6:02 pm.

Leaders and members in attendance included:

Council Members: Vice President Brenda Canine (Great Divide), Secretary Jill Skinner (Great Divide), Treasurer Janet Smith (Running Free)

Ulm Pishkun: Sandy Harshaw Irvin, Leann Murphy, Ginger Murphy, Asher Nelson

Montana Sunsets: Fran Gossack                                     

Running Free: Greta Graft                    

Big Sky Explorers: N/A                                               

Trouble Shooters: N/A                               

Great Divide: Drew Skinner                                      

Creative Clovers: Emma Link

Circle S: Kande Yeager                                               

Eden Livestock: Jill Mackey

Tiger Butte: N/A                                            

Chestnut Valley: Misty Ayers, Juliette Pieper, Nicole Pieper

MSDB: Annette Chandler, Megan DeSilva                   

468 Club: Bill Ogg, Alena Standley

Extension Agents: Jenn Volkmar, Felicia O’Brien

Pledges:  

Leann and Drew led the pledges.

Secretary’s Report:

Vice President Brenda Canine gave everyone a minute to read through the September meeting minutes. Brenda asked for any corrections or additions. Sandy motioned to approve the minutes. Janet seconded the motion. All in favor, September meeting minutes approved as presented.

Correspondence:

None.

Treasurers Report:

Checking balance: $42,593.05

CD: $20,000.00

Saving Balance: $25.00           

Combined Total: $62,618.05

COMMITTEE REPORTS

AGENT REPORT – Jenn Volkmar: Project day had 100 kids sign up in horse, shooting sports, cooking, new members, and beef 101. Project days are the second Saturday of the month and they are looking for leaders interested in hosting a project day. Lisa Jassen found cute 4H ornaments online and will be ordering for horse project day – let her know if your club wants some. If you are not getting emails from the office, let them know so you can be added to the email list. If your club has social media, you have to let Jenn know what type and where so it can be tracked by the state. If you need things for events, project day space, or meetings, please let them know ahead of time. Farmers Union has their $100 scholarship starting again in January – easy for club to get. MT Co-op is offering scholarships and loans to 4-H members. Project books are ordered but on backorder. There are My4-H years in the office hallway. Clubs that do not have bank accounts will need to be reimbursed for club expenses instead of receiving $100 check.

AMBASSADORS REPORT – Kyree Morrison: No report submitted. There are five ambassadors. They set up their schedule and will meet the 4th Tuesday of every month and will assign positions soon. They will be helping with Cloverbud project days.

COMMUNICATIONS REPORT - Vacant: No report submitted.

FOODS AND NUTRITION & SEWING AND TEXTILES REPORT -Fran Gossack: We need ideas & presenters for Project Days. Felicia O’Brien is doing a foods preservation workshop for November’s Project Day. Plan to have workshops for Project Days. Let us know if you’d like to lead one or have requests No date set. Any ideas when & how we should tackle this so more of the members can participate? This is a county-wide community service project.

RECORD BOOK & ACHIEVEMENT -Fran Gossack. Plans to review/revise project requirements table, awards application process, record book judging, project manuals. Please submit any thoughts on these subjects including anything needing clarification or ways to make it easier for members, leaders, parents, judges, and the office as they will need some guidance on awards and awards will need to be reviewed before next year. Some awards are not current and some do not match the amount of work required for the award amount. Many awards had kids submitted for them but awards not given.

 

STATE FAIR PLANNING COMMITTEE: Jenn Volkmar: Will begin planning in February. We should be in the same building. They will be reviewing the fair book.

ICECREAM BOOTH: N/A

GREEN CLOVER FUNDRAISER:  Report by Keri Leggett. We had 16 great baskets turned in by clubs. 1500 tickets were checked out but only 730 tickets were returned for the drawing. The raffle brought in $4885 / net $4300.

HORSE LEADERS REPORT: Ginger Murphy – Horse leaders met last week. October had the horse benefit show for the horse judging team; they also went to the NILE for practice and won. There was a halter breaking clinic at Roses’, horsey Halloween was November 2nd, planning project days for upcoming months and horse camp will be in May. The horse judging team thanks leader’s council for the use of the debit card while planning the trip to nationals in January.

LIVESTOCK LEADERS REPORT:Jill Mackey - Meetings are now the 4th Tuesday of the month at 6:00. They approved rule book and breeding project changes at the last meeting. Project days are being planned as 101 classes. The junior livestock leaders are leading project days with the help of Heather Lewis. Beef 101 was the first project day and went great; they also went to the Hastings ranch Sunday for more learning. LQA will be achieved by going through all of the 101 project days. Junior livestock leaders meet once a month on Sundays at Timeless seed in Ulm.

SHOOTING SPORTS COMMITTEE: Samaria Kirby – Had a project day looking at ammo and making catapults. Air pistol, BB gun, hunting, and western heritage are all going well. Check Z Suites for upcoming disciplines sign ups.

SPONSORSHIP:Nothing new beyond achievement night sponsors. 

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

BANK CD: CD is done and money has been transferred. It is a 7 month term.

ACHIEVEMENT NIGHT:  Went well and might send out a survey to leaders.

ELECTIONS: President and treasurer positions are both open for nominations.

President Keri Leggett has termed out of her position. Janet Smith is the current treasurer.  

PRESIDENT: Janet Smith nominated Brenda Canine for President, there were no other nominations.

Bill Ogg motioned to cast a unanimous vote for Brenda Canine. Sandy Harshaw-Irwin seconded the motion. All were in favor **MOTION CARRIED Brenda Canine will be the new President of Leaders Council.

TREASURER: Brenda Canine nominated Janet Smith for treasurer. Fran Gossack declined a nomination.

Fran Gossack motioned to cast a unanimous vote for Janet Smith. Sandy Harshaw-Irwin seconded the motion. All were in favor. **MOTION CARRIED Janet Smith retains her position as treasurer.

VICE PRESIDENT: Brenda accepting the position of President left the Vice President position open. At this time there were no volunteers or nominations. Alena Standley motioned to table selecting a new vice president. Megan DeSilva seconded the motion. All were in favor. *** MOTION CARRIED Vice President position open.

NEW BUSINESS

PROJECT DAY: What do leaders want to see on project day? Ideas given: Astronomy, star base, robotics, photography series, food preservations, cake decorating, fishing, welding, woodworking, 3-D printing. Jenn will email leaders to ask what their members would like to have offered.

BUDGET: Janet Smith presented the budget (see packet for budget). Janet is going to look into a couple areas and we may need to absorb the cost if some background checks need to be redone.

BYLAWS: Bylaws need to be reviewed; the last copy is from 2022. Everything was taken off the website to be 508 compliant and have not been added back on to the website. Committee volunteers include: Brenda, Janet, Jill, and Fran.

PARADE OF LIGHTS: Sara Graft is organizing. Decorating will be Friday Nov. 29th at 4129 N. Park Trail at 6:00 (Hoven Equipment). Pizza will be provided so bring drinks and desserts. Rob and Deb Haney donated the space to decorate indoors. If you cannot decorate come to parade and be on the float Saturday Nov. 30th at 5:30. Bring candy top throw, animals welcome but ask first, & dress warm!

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Volunteer leader training: There is volunteer leader training in Shelby; it is open in Z Suites. There will also be a leader webinar coming up.

Foundation: Next meeting on November 19th @ 6:00 at the extension office. POT LUCK DINNER

For the Good of Order

Circle S: Made six tie blankets at the last meeting. Their members vary in age and projects.

MT Sunsets: Has a lot of new members. Having them answer a question every meeting so they can get to know each other.  

Ulm Pishkun: Giving project – 50+ bags with candy, socks, etc. to a nursing home in Great Falls.

Running Free: They are looking for a new banner for their club; suggestions included Heather Lewis and banners on the cheap.

468: They have had two meetings, elected officers, set goals, and did a trunk or treat winning 2nd place. They are planning a project tour to go see each other projects. They have 31 members.

Adjournment

Meeting was adjourned at 7:28 pm. Janet motioned, Jill seconded, all in favor – Motion carried***

Next Meeting will be held on January 14, 2025 at 6:00 pm at MSU Extension Office and Web-ex.

Submitted by Jill Skinner

APPROVED

Call to Order:

The meeting was called to order by President Keri Leggett at 6:05 pm. Leaders and members in attendance included:

Council Members: President Keri Leggett (Great Divide), Vice President Brenda Canine (Great Divide),  Secretary Jill Skinner (Great Divide), Treasurer Janet Smith (Running Free)

Ulm Pishkun: Sandy Harshaw Irvin, Leann Murphy

Montana Sunsets: Fran Gossack                                     

Running Free: N/A                  

Big Sky Explorers: Abigail, Rebecca, & Grace Phillips 

Trouble Shooters: Samaria Kirby

Great Divide: Drew Skinner                                         

Creative Clovers: Ashley Adkins

Circle S: Shantel Herman                                             

Eden Livestock: Jill Mackey

Tiger Butte: Lisa Jassen                                                

Chestnut Valley: Misty Ayers  

MSDB: Annette Chandler, Megan DeSilva                   

Extension Agents: Jenn Volkmar

Pledges:  

Leann and Drew led the pledges.

Secretary’s Report:

President Keri Leggett gave everyone a minute to read through the July meeting minutes. Keri asked for any corrections or additions. July meeting minutes approved as presented.

Correspondence:

None.

Treasurers Report:

Checking balance as of June 28, 2024: $63,234.52

Saving Balance: $25.00           

Combined Total: $63,259.52

COMMITTEE REPORTS

AGENT REPORT – Jenn Volkmar:

Jenn is the new agent and started in July. Whittier Elementary is seeking volunteers to help paint their playground – could be a club activity for community service.

AMBASSADORS REPORT – Kyree Morrison:

Not much going on; they are currently looking for new ambassadors – they have three applications. Samaria has offered to help lead. Must be 14+ to apply.

COMMUNICATIONS REPORT - Vacant:

No report submitted.

FOODS AND NUTRITION & SEWING AND TEXTILES REPORT -Fran Gossack:

State fair had a good turnout in both food and sewing and a lot of ribbons were won. She is looking for help with either for project days so if you would like to help reach out to Fran. Baby blankets are still postponed.

RECORD BOOK & ACHIEVEMENT:

No report submitted. They will be meeting soon to review project books.

STATE FAIR PLANNING COMMITTEE:

People liked the new building even though we did not have as much space. We had both positive and negative reactions to the new space.  No report yet on entry numbers or how exhibitions went.

ICECREAM BOOTH:

Ice cream both grossed $28,837; expenses $10,254.47; Total income: $ 18,582.53; after managers are paid we will have $ 16,724.28 remaining - Very successful year!

Janet recommended that we give back to clubs that spent money on green clover baskets. Janet Smith motioned to provide each club $100 that put together a GTA basket. Motion was seconded by Samaria Kirby. No discussion. All were in favor. ***MOTION CARRIED****

GREEN CLOVER FUNDRAISER: 

Report by Keri Leggett. We have had 16 great baskets turned in my clubs. Only approx. 1500 ticket have been checked out. Money and tickets are due back by Oct 1st. We will have prizes for the top ticket sellers. We will need kids to come up and do daily drawings (Great divide will do Wednesday drawing) Emails need to go out regularly reminding for tickets sales and returns.

HORSE LEADERS REPORT: 

Leann Murphy reported. Cascade and Teton County working ranch horse and horse shows went well with a great turnout; looking at extending the co-op to more counties in the golden triangle for education and horse shows. State working ranch horse was last weekend at the 406 arena. The state horse show is this coming weekend also at the 406 arena with 75 kids coming. Having both state shows in Cascade County took a toll on our volunteers. Event is supposed to be hosted by Bozeman but local leaders had to step up and put in the work. The horse judging team will be hosting the dinner costing $6 per person as a fundraiser for Nationals; there will also be a benefit horse show October 5th to raise funds for the trip. Next horse leaders meeting is October 1st. MBHA Barrel setting is coming up Sept 27, 28, 29 and they need volunteers. Horsey Halloween will be November 2nd at the Expo Park.

LIVESTOCK LEADERS REPORT:

Jill Mackey reported. Leaders are prepping and updating the rule book for the 2025 show; rule changes can be submitted and will be voted on at Oct. meeting. Meetings are now the 4th Tuesday of the month a 5:30. Project days are being planned with 101 classes. The junior livestock leaders are being led by Heather Lewis.

SHOOTING SPORTS COMMITTEE:

Samaria Kirby reported. Volunteers are needed for the Gun Show booth Sept 27 – 29; a sign up will be emailed out. Air pistol begins Oct 24th – Dec 19th;  Air rifle and bb gun begin Oct 22nd – Dec 10; Western Heritage once a month beginning Oct 20th; Hunting once a month beginning Oct 23. All are open on Z Suites for registration.

 

SPONSORSHIP:

No report submitted. 

Unfinished Business

BANK CD:

Janet has been out of town for work and will work on this when she returns.

New Business

ACHIEVEMENT NIGHT:  

October 27, 2024 in the Family Living Center at 4:00 pm. We will not be doing the project fair this year. Families will sign up for pot luck meals based on the letter of their last name; Jody and Jenn will send out a sign-up sheet. Event has been planned by ambassadors in the past and they will hopefully be handling it this year as well.

ELECTIONS:

President and Treasurer are open for nominations at the November meeting. Keri has termed out as president.

REQUEST FROM HORSE JUDGING TEAM:

The horse judging team has requested to use the leaders council debit card to make reservations for their upcoming trip.

Samaria Kirby motioned to allow the horse judging team to use the leaders council debit card to make reservations and other travel arraignments for their trip to nationals. Grace Phillips seconded the motion. All were in favor. ***MOTION CARRIED***

For the Good of Order

Circle S:

They will be helping pick pumpkins for Jordan’s pumpkins for a cause benefiting the Sun River Food Bank.

Great Divide:

Held a record book meeting at City Brew to help members finish up record books – had a great turnout.

Ulm Pishkun:

Held record book meeting at the bowling alley. Kids bowled on one side and adults checked record books on the other side – very fun!!

Adjournment

Meeting was adjourned at 7:34 pm. Samaria Motioned, Fran seconded, all in favor – Motion carried***

Announcements

Next Meeting will be held on November 12, 2024 at 6:00 pm at MSU Extension Office and Web-ex.

Submitted by Jill Skinner

APPROVED

Call to Order: 

The meeting was called to order by President Keri Leggett at 6:07 pm. Leaders and members in attendance included:  

Council Members: President Keri Leggett (Great Divide), Secretary Jill Skinner (Great Divide), Treasurer Janet Smith (Running Free) 

Ulm Pishkun: Brook Gerard, Sandy Harshaw Irvin, Reece Hastings, Ginger Murphy 

Montana Sunsets: Fran Gossack

Running Free: Greta Graft 

Big Sky Explorers: N/A

Trouble Shooters: Samaria Kirby 

Great Divide: Drew Skinner

Creative Clovers: N/A 

Circle S: N/A

Eden Livestock: N/A 

Tiger Butte: Vicki Johnson

Highwood Hustlers: N/A 

Chestnut Valley: Misty Ayers

Non-assigned: N/A 

MSDB: N/A

Extension Agents: Jenn Volkmar, Rose Malisani 

Pledges: 

Samaria led the pledges. 

Secretary’s Report:

President Keri Leggett gave everyone a minute to read through the May meeting minutes. Keri asked for any corrections or additions. May meeting minutes approved as presented.  

Correspondence:

Several coloring contest entries turned in. 

Treasurers Report:  

Checking balance as of June 28, 2024: $45,030.76 

Saving Balance: $25.00 

Combined Total: $45,055.76 

COMMITTEE REPORTS 

Agent Report:

Presented in person by Rose Malisani. Rose introduced the new 4-H agent Jennifer Volkmar. Jenn began July 1st and introductions were made to members present. Next week is the livestock show and sale along with congress in Bozeman – we have 10 kids going to congress. The horse show will be July 19-21 and then the state fair starts July 26 and runs through August 3.  

Ambassadors Report:

No report submitted. Their coloring contest is still going and can be turned into the office. They are making a sign-up sheet for shifts to work the 4-H area of the fair.  

Communications Report:

No report submitted. 

Foods and Nutrition Report:

Report by Fran Gossack. State fair contests are spread throughout the week.  

Sewing and Textiles Report:

Report by Fran Gossack. Baby blankets are still postponed.  

Record Book & Achievement:

No report submitted. Deadlines are coming up. Members should look into applying for record book awards. 

State Fair Planning Committee:

Report by Rose Malisani. Fair entry is due July 16th. State fair begins 7/26 and goes until 8/3 in the family living center. Club booth decorating will go from 7/23 – 7/25 in the evenings. The theme is ‘Back to Our Roots in Cowboy Boots’. 

GREEN CLOVER FUNDRAISER: 

Report by Keri Leggett. Tickets are available to be picked up at the extension. Some clubs have turned in their baskets already and they are on display in the entryway of the extension office. Basket themes were due to the office by June 30th and baskets, remaining tickets, and money are due to the office October 1st. We will decide on prizes for the top three ticket sellers. ***Ulm Pishkun was concerned about the cost on families to have to pay out of pocket for basket items. It was discussed that leader’s council could help with a financial contribution in the future.  

HORSE LEADERS REPORT: 

Ginger Murphy reported. Cascade County and Teton County Hose show is coming up July 19, 20, and 21st at the 406 Arena. Cascade County is also hosting the state horse show in September at the 406 Arena. They will be needing volunteers for a lot of things. They will help again at the MBSF Barrel racing at the end of September doing barrel setting and gates as a fundraiser. Lots of stuff for horse coming up.  

LIVESTOCK LEADERS REPORT:

Brook Gerard reported. It is GO TIME!! Livestock show and sale is next week beginning Thursday with load in and weigh in from 12 – 7. Friday is market classes and the sale and then showmanship and round robin Saturday. Move out and clean-up will begin at 6 am Sunday. All animals will be leaving Sunday morning this year. Saturday will include a peewee and old goat contest as well followed by dinner and awards. Saturday evening will conclude with a dance.  

SHOOTING SPORTS COMMITTEE:

No report submitted. Shooting sports have wrapped up and record books are due to the office for judging by July 18th. 

SPONSORSHIP:

No report submitted. $22,600.10 has been donated to the organization as a whole. We will need to redo the donor report. 

Unfinished Business 

None 

New Business 

DAIRY BOOTH

Managers will need to use the debit card during the fair. Udderly Fresh does not accept debit cards so we will need to have a check ready for them when they deliver the ice cream the 25th or 26th. We can pay 50% up front and settle up at the end of fair for the remaining balance.  

***Jill Skinner moved to approve a check for $4000 to Udderly Fresh for the ice cream. Sandy Harshaw-Irwin seconded the motion. All were in favor. MOTION CARRIED***  

STATE FAIR

Request to use the debit card to purchase lunch for the judges. Approved line item.  

BANK CD

Janet Smith proposed that we transfer some of the money on our checking to a CD so that it can generate some interest – possibly $20,000.  

Brook Gerard moved that Leaders Council invest up to $20,000 at a credit union with the best terms. Samaria Kirby seconded the motion. Discussion included looking into terms at other banks and checking rates and terms. All were in favor. ***MOTION CARRIED***  

CONGRESS

Cascade County has 10 kids going to Congress. Six kids will need a ride on July 11th from Bozeman back to Great Falls Thursday morning for the livestock show. They have looked into renting a vehicle large enough to carry everyone. Hertz has a seven seater van for 3 days for $635.00.  

Fran moved to spend up to $700 to rent the van. Samaria seconded the motion. Discussion included Samaria offering to drive the kids in her vehicle. All were in favor. ***MOTION CARRIED*** 

For the Good of Order 

Running Free: They had Cinco de Mayo pot luck and went on a project tour. 

MT Sunsets: Their members are making blankets made from material left over from baby blankets. 

Adjournment

Meeting was adjourned at 7:11 pm. 

 

Next Meeting will be held on September 10, 2024 at 6:00 pm at MSU Extension Office and Web-ex.  

 

Submitted by Jill Skinner 

APPROVED

Call to Order:

The meeting was called to order by President Keri Leggett at 6:05 pm. Leaders and members in attendance included:

  • Council Members: President Keri Leggett (Great Divide), Vice President Brenda Canine (Great Divide), Secretary Jill Skinner (Great Divide), Treasurer Janet Smith (Running Free)
  • Ulm Pishkun: Leann Murphy
  • Montana Sunsets: Fran Gossack  
  • Running Free: N/A                        
  • Big Sky Explorers: Linsey Daly, Sally Daly                         
  • Trouble Shooters: N/A
  • Great Divide: Drew Skinner
  • Creative Clovers: Ashley Adkins, Tally Adkins
  • Circle S: N/A 
  • Eden Livestock: Jill Mackey, Leah Mackey
  • Tiger Butte: N/A                                                                            
  • Highwood Hustlers: N/A
  • Chestnut Valley: N/A
  • MSDB: N/A
  • Non-assigned: N/A
  • Extension Agents: Rose Malisani

Pledges:  

Rose led the pledges.

Secretary’s Report:

President Keri Leggett gave everyone a minute to read through the March meeting minutes. Keri asked for any corrections or additions. March meeting minutes approved as presented.

Correspondence:

Thank you card from the Great Falls Food Bank for the 140 lbs. of food that were donated.

Treasurers Report:

Checking balance as of May 12, 2024: $47,629.10

Saving Balance: $25.00               

Combined Total: $47,654.10

COMMITTEE REPORTS

  • Agent Report: Presented in person by Rose Malisani. May 1 was the add/drop date for projects. There are currently 309 active members and 79 adult leaders. 62 campers are signed up for camp; sign up ends May 13th. There was a lot of damage to the road, bathrooms, and a boy’s cabin from the storm. Work is being done to fix all issues. July 9-12 is 4-H Congress in Bozeman. July 11-13 is the Cascade County Livestock Show and Sale – catalogs available mid-June. July 19 – working ranch horse/packing with Teton County. July 20 – Cascade County Horse Show. July 21 – Horse Fun day. July 26 – 8/3 – State Fair in the Family Living Center – there will be a sign up sent out to work shifts during fair hours. Agent interviews will be this May 15th. Doyon twins were featured on MT 4-H and podcast Voices of Montana.
  • Ambassadors Report:Report submitted by Kyree Morrison. They held the leader’s appreciation event on April 28th from 2-4 at the Paddock Club at the expo park. They had about 50 leaders attend and Matt Rains spoke to the group. They had a great turn out and served desserts at the event. Ambassadors are currently planning 4-H camp.
  • Communications Report: No report submitted.
  • Foods and Nutrition Report:Report submitted by Fran Gossack. Nothing on last project day.
  • Sewing and Textiles Report: Report submitted by Fran Gossack. Made potholders on last project day. Baby blankets were cancelled – the fabric has already been purchased. The Fashion Show and Quilt review was held in April and members got blue ribbons qualifying them for Congress.
  • Record Book & Achievement: No report submitted. Livestock project books are due June 25th and shooting sports due July 6th.
  • State Fair Planning Committee: Report submitted by Rose Malisani. Theme for the fair this year will be ‘Back to our roots in our cowboy boots’. Due date for fair entries is July 15th. 4-H will be in the pavilion this year due to poor conditions of the other building. Janet Smith and Samaria Kirby will be the ice cream booth managers.
  • GREEN CLOVER FUNDRAISER:  Report submitted by Keri Leggett. The Green Clover raffle flyers and informational posters are ready to be sent out. Clubs need to submit themes by June 30th. Printing cost for 5000 tickets at Advanced Litho will be about $530.
  • Jill Skinner moved to approve up to $600.00 for printing costs. Brenda Canine seconded the motion. Discussion included asking if we could print more tickets if needed – yes. Motion was approved, all in favor ***MOTION PASSED
  • HORSE LEADERS REPORT: Leanne Murphy reported. Horse camp was May 3-4 with a Kentucky Derby theme. They had 40 kids from Cascade, Liberty, and Teton County attended the event. Working Ranch Horse and the county horse show will be July 19 and 20 and a fun day on the 21st. Never sweat Ranch is hosting Ranch practice the 1st Monday in June. Kings arena is hosting horse show practice. State horse show will be in Vaughn in September.
  • LIVESTOCK LEADERS REPORT: Jill Mackey reported. County Livestock show will be July 11, 12, and 13. They are working on sponsorships and are pulling in $3800 right now. Foundation is helping with the building fee. Courtney Claremont has been helping with some workshops. Junior Livestock leaders have prizes this year. Taking cows to Tizer meats; small animals going to Glacier County Co-op. The small animal weigh in was last Saturday and had a good turnout.
  • SHOOTING SPORTS COMMITTEE: No report submitted. Met last week for monthly meeting; shotgun is currently going. Mitsuru went to the National shoot qualifier.
  • SPONSORSHIP:No report submitted. 1996 4-H member Holly Kessler donated $5000; to be divided as $2500 to Leaders Council split between camp and ice cream booth; $1250 to shooting sports; and $1250 to Foundation.

Unfinished Business

SHOOTING SPORTS REQUEST – Samaria Kirby

Previously, a request for assistance to purchase shotguns for shooting sports in the amount of $900. Leaders Council requested more information (cost, specifics) however Samaria was not present at this meeting to present. $1250 has been donated to shooting sports from Kessler’s. Brenda moved to table to the request until the July meeting. Leanne Murphy seconded the motion – all in favor – MOTION PASSED.

New Business

CAMP MEDICATION BOX – Rose Malisani

The 4-H camp nurse has requested a larger medication storage box that can be locked for camp. Prices on Amazon range from $60 - $100. Brenda Canine moved to approve $100 for a new medication box. Sally Daly seconded the motion. All were in favor – MOTION PASSED.

For the Good of Order

  • Ambassadors: They are holding a coloring contest that will be judged and prizes awarded per age group.
  • Ulm: They cleaned and planted flowers at the cemetery. They also cleaned and painted the U on the Ulm hill.
  • Running Free: They had Cinco de Mayo pot luck and went on a project tour, and they will be going fishing in June.
  • Creative Clovers: They went to Central Avenue Meats and Fish Wildlife and Parks; had a pizza party and they are having each member enter one project in the fair.
  • Big Sky Explorers: May Day baskets were rescheduled due to illness. They enjoyed their ice cream party and they have 10 members going to camp.
  • Great Divide: Had a lot of great demonstrations at the last meeting including animals, piano, basketball, and science.
  • Eden Livestock – They cleaned up the cemetery and have been taking care of Eden Hall inside and out. They have 5 new members so they are helping them with record books. Courtney Claremont has been helping kids with judging lessons.

Adjournment

Meeting was adjourned at 7:13 pm.

 

Next Meeting will be held on July 2, 2024 at 6:00 pm at MSU Extension Office and Web-ex.

 

Submitted by Jill Skinner

APPROVED

Call to Order:

The meeting was called to order by President Keri Leggett at 6:01 pm.

Attendance

Leaders and members in attendance included:

Council Members: President Keri Leggett (Great Divide), Vice President Brenda Canine (Great Divide), Secretary Jill Skinner (Great Divide), Treasurer Janet Smith (Running Free)

Ulm Pishkun: Sandy Harshaw-Irvin, Kyree Morrison, Justine Marchion, Leann Murphy

Montana Sunsets: Fran Gossack                                            

Running Free: Greta Graft                         

Big Sky Explorers: Linsey Daly, Sally Daly

Trouble Shooters: Samaria Kirby

Great Divide: Drew Skinner

Highwood Hustlers: N/A

Circle S: N/A

Eden Livestock: N/A

Tiger Butte: Vicki Johnson, Wendy Newman, Reagan Jassen

Creative Clovers: N/A

Chestnut Valley: Misty Ayers, Juliet Pieper, Nichole Pieper, Harper Pieper, Maysa Standley     

MSDB: N/A

Non-assigned: Ken Roberts

Extension Agents: Rose Malisani

Pledges:  

Samaria Kirby led the pledges.

Secretary’s Report:

President Keri Leggett gave everyone a minute to read through the January meeting minutes. Keri asked for any corrections or additions. January meeting minutes approved as presented.

Correspondence:

No correspondence.

Treasurers Report:

Checking balance as of March 12, 2024: $58,454.73

Saving Balance: $25.00               

Combined Total: $58,479.73

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Agent Report:

Presented in person by Rose Malisani. Project day was full with 81 kids participating in baking hand pies, horse packing, and Cloverbuds. May 1st is the last day to add/drop a project. There have been 2 applications for the agent position so they are opening it back up to get more applications. Katrin will be helping with Foundation, cooking, and sewing and Rose will help with Leaders Council, Horse, and livestock. Registration for 4-H camp opens April 1st on Z Suites; teen leaders are busy planning camp. Rec Lab will take place in Boulder this year and registration is open on Z Suites.

Ambassadors Report:

Report submitted by Kyree Morrison. They made ice cream floats with Cloverbuds for project day. Their canned food drive is complete. There is a leader’s appreciation event coming up April 28th from 2-4 at the Paddock Club at the expo park.

Communications Report:

No report submitted.

Foods and Nutrition Report:

Report submitted by Fran Gossack. Katrin is helping with foods and nutrition and Sandy helped at the last project day making hand pies.  

Sewing and Textiles Report:

Report submitted by Fran Gossack. Every project day has had sewing kids. Last project day they made patterns. May project day they will be making baby blankets.

Record Book & Achievement:

No report submitted.

State Fair Planning Committee:

Report submitted by Rose Malisani. Spoke with Susan Shannon from the fair grounds and told her we will not go back to the Harvest building unless repairs are made so they will need to find a different location for 4-H during fair week. They are still looking for fair superintendents and will be looking over the book tomorrow. Future goal is to have the fair be a county show that includes the horse show along with the livestock show.   

GREEN TIE AFFAIR: 

Report submitted by Keri Leggett. Committee met this past weekend and decided to rebrand from the Green Tie Affair to the Green Clover raffle. Info will be sent out to club leaders at the end of March. We will do raffle baskets like in 2020 as the raffle made just as much as the gala with much lesson time and planning. Every club will be required to put together 1 basket per 15 club members with a minimum basket total of $100. Baskets will be themed and ideas for baskets need to be submitted by June. Tickets will be 1 for $5 or 5 for $20.  Members will be required to sell 1 book of tickets.

HORSE LEADERS REPORT: 

No report submitted. Leaders met last Tuesday and are planning for horse camp in May 3-4 with a Kentucky Derby theme. There will be food, hats, and a variety of classes for the kids including packing, starting horses and branding. They are also lining up judges for the county horse show July 19 and 20. They have moved working ranch horse to Friday and the county show to Saturday. They are also inviting neighboring counties with smaller groups to join the show.

LIVESTOCK LEADERS REPORT:

No report submitted. County Livestock show will be July 11, 12, and 13. Members needing Livestock Quality Assurance will need to take it at the April project day.  Intent to enter dates is coming up for all animals. Courtney Claremont is helping with project days.

SHOOTING SPORTS COMMITTEE:

Report submitted by Samaria Kirby. 22 rifle and pistol finished up. State entries: 8 – archery, 1 air pistol, 2 22 pistol, 1 22 rifle. Shotgun begins in April and hunting and western heritage begin in March.

 

SPONSORSHIP:

No report submitted. The Greg Gould Memorial scholarship is new and being sponsored by the family. Horse and Livestock just sent out their sponsorship letters.

 

Unfinished Business

SHOOTING SPORTS REQUEST – Samaria Kirby:

The gun raffle ends this Wednesday with the drawing taking place on Friday. The raffle should bring in approximately $4600 to spend on shotguns; $1500 is reserved for Western Heritage purchases. 

NRA and Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation grants are due in the fall. John Gagnon has submitted a grant request to the Safari Club.

Currently they have 3 shotguns; they have the funds for one more totaling 4 shotguns for 19 kids signed up. 4 kids bring their own shotgun from home.  10 kids can shoot at one time.

After discussion, this item has been TABLED and Leader’s Council is requesting more information including tangible options so they can see exactly what shooting sports is looking at purchasing before approving this request.

 

New Business

No New Business.

For the Good of Order

  • Ulm: They are collected over 2000 diapers and donated them to Echo’s and the receiving home. Several members went skiing Friday. They finished stuffing the 4000 eggs for Easter
  • Running Free: They made cupcakes for Hospice care staff. They are also going ice fishing as a group activity.
  • Trouble Shooters: Helped make cards for Meals on Wheels.
  • Big Sky Explorers: They enjoyed the pizza party they won. They made Valentines for Meals on Wheels. They were will appreciated and they will be doing May Day baskets for them as well.
  • Great Divide: They helped make valentines for the Meals on Wheels program.
  • Chris Canine will be doing a 3-D printing project at project day and it may turn onto an independent study project if members are interested.

Adjournment

Meeting was adjourned at 6:55 pm.

 

Next Meeting will be held on May 14, 2024 at 6:00 pm at MSU Extension Office and Web-ex.

 

Submitted by Jill Skinner

APPROVED

Call to Order:

The meeting was called to order by President Keri Leggett at 6:02 pm.

Attendence

Leaders and members in attendance included: 
Council Members: President Keri Leggett (Great Divide), Vice President Brenda Canine (Great Divide), Secretary Jill Skinner (Great Divide), Treasurer Janet Smith (Running Free)

Ulm Pishkun: Sandy Harshaw-Irvin, Kyree Morrison, Seth Juhl, Brook Gerard

Montana Sunsets: N/A          

Running Free: Greta Graft  

Big Sky Explorers: Erin, Emilia, and Elizabeth Doyon  

Trouble Shooters: Samaria Kirby

Great Divide: Drew Skinner    

Highwood Hustlers: N/A

Circle S: Shantel Herman    

Eden Livestock: N/A

Creative Clovers: Ashley Adkins    

Tiger Butte: N/A

Chestnut Valley: Misty Ayers, Will Ayers, Jacob Ayers, Juliet Pieper, Nichole Pieper, Harper Pieper 

MSDB: N/A  

Non-assigned: Ken Roberts  

Extension Agents: Allyssa Peak

Pledges

Seth Juhl led the pledges.

Secretary’s Report

President Keri Leggett gave everyone a minute to read through the November meeting minutes. Keri asked for any corrections or additions. November meeting minutes approved as presented. 

Correspondence:

No correspondence.

Treasurers Report: 

Checking balance as of January 9, 2024: $56,847.84
Saving Balance: $25.00  
Combined Total: $56,872.84

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Agent Report:

Report submitted by Allyssa Peak. Enrollment a.o. 12/21: 297 active youth members 66 active volunteers 3 pending youth members 14 pending volunteers Horse Project Enrollment: 54 youth Livestock Project Enrollment: 146 youth Shooting Sports Project Enrollment: 79 youth

Office Closure: The Extension Office will be closed on Monday, January 15 and Monday, February 19.

Camp Junior Director Applications are open on ZSuite. Youth must be 13 years old as of October 1, 2023 to apply to be a JD. Please let me or Steve Perry know if you would like to serve as a camp chaperone (must be certified 4-H volunteer).

New 4-H Family Orientation registration is open on ZSuite for the February 15 event. Encourage new families to register. There are still workshop slots open for Project Days. Let me know if you would like to teach a workshop. Committee chairs, please get me your reports by the 20th of every even month.

Russell Country Federal Credit Union now offers special accounts for 4-H members including checking and savings. The debit card has a clover on it.

Ambassadors Report:

Report submitted by Kyree Morrison. Ambassadors have been up to a lot this December. On December 9th we had project- days. We colored some Santa ornaments; we also decorated cookies and played a bunch of super fun games. On Sunday December 10th Seth, Kyree and Blake went to Circle S clubs meeting and Christmas party. We helped with the games and cleaning up afterwards.

Communications Report:

Report submitted by Allyssa Peak.  Registration for the Communications Contest is open on ZSuite. The event will take place on Thursday, January 25. Registration closes on January 15. Let me know if you would like to serve as a judge for this event.

Foods and Nutrition Report:

Report submitted by Fran Gossack. December 11, 2023 Project featured a Cake Decorating workshop by Brenda Canine. Sandy Harshaw-Irvin will lead a baking workshop at the January 13, 2024 Project Day. Foods Festival & Stir Ups Contests will be on February 7, 2024 and registration is open on Z Suites. Thirteen & older members may compete for a chance to go to Congress. Brenda Canine is willing to do more cake decorating workshops. 

Sewing and Textiles Report:

Report submitted by Fran Gossack. Four members and their Moms attended December 11, 2023 Project Day to sew a dish towel boa. Most at least got a good portion done & can finish later. One boa was completed after adapting the pattern to the amount of fabric. If anyone has ideas for future workshops, we welcome ideas.

January 13, 2024 Project day is a Pillowcase from the project book. April 25, 2024 is the Fashion Revue & Quilt Show. Those over 13 years old could qualify for Congress.

Baby Blankets: Arrangements are being made to deliver the blankets made in 2023.May 11, 2024 Project Day will be our blanket sewing event. This serves as a community service project for all 4-H members, sewers & non-sewers. Adult mentors will be needed to help members sew, serge, use rotary cutters, etc. Qualified teen members may assist also. There may be additional sewing dates if there are enough requests. This event will help those award seeking members fulfill requirements.

Record Book & Achievement:

No report submitted. 

State Fair Planning Committee:

No report submitted. 

GREEN TIE AFFAIR:  

No report submitted. Committee will plan on meeting soon. 

HORSE LEADERS REPORT:  

No report submitted.

Planning for horse camp in May. It will take place Friday May 3rd and 4th.

LIVESTOCK LEADERS REPORT:

No report submitted.

Beef weigh in was postponed to January 2th due to negative temperatures. They are busy lining up and planning the livestock show. There are 76 pigs, 20 lambs, 15 goats. Sponsorship letter will go out next month. 

SHOOTING SPORTS COMMITTEE:

Report submitted by Samaria Kirby. We have finished up with Air Rifle and Air pistol. We had 3 kids go to Lewis and Clark Invitational in Air Pistol with 2 of them placing in the top 5. We had 2 kids go in air rifle with one placing in the top 10. 

We currently have 57 ids shooting in archery, which started December 4th. We had 8 kids go to the Lewis and Clark Invitational and we brought home 9 awards. 
We are currently getting ready for our County Invitational on February 17th. We are looking for members and parents who would like to help work the tournament.

We started .22 rifle January 9 with 6 kids signed up for practice. We will go until February 27th. We started .22 pistol on Thursday January 11 and we have 9 kids enrolled in the project.

SPONSORSHIP:

No report submitted. Received a sponsorship from Taylors Automax.

Unfinished Business

BUDGET APPROVAL

Janet Smith: Sandy Harshaw-Irwin moved to approve the budget as present. Samaria Kirby seconded the motion. All were in favor. *** MOTION CARRIED

New Business

SHOOTING SPORTS REQUEST

Samaria Kirby: Shooting sports has requested that Leaders Council consider matching donated money raised to purchase shotguns for the shooting sports program. There are currently 19 kids this year; 4 members use their own shotguns. The shooting sports committee has purchased 3 shotguns and they need at least 3 more. They have the budget to purchase one shotgun currently. If they purchase a shotgun like the one they already have that can adjust between ages of the shooter, it will cost $1800. They have a donation of $1500 already dedicated to purchasing a shotgun. 
Discussion included applying for other grants including the NRA, Boone & Crockett, and the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation. Shooting sports will look into pricing options of shotguns; lower cost shotguns to buy more of them at once and will present at the March meeting. Shotgun begins in April.

For the Good of Order

Ulm:

They are collecting diapers and donating them to Echo’s and the receiving home. The member that guesses how many diapers they collect will win a prize. They have also begun stuffing the 4000 eggs for Easter 

Running Free:

They will be decorating cookies and Valentines for Hospice care. They have been using the BAND app to communicate and really like it. 

Chestnut Valley:

They have been working on their My 4-H year book – one page per meeting and keeping them in a folder
Big Sky Explorers: They enjoyed the pizza party they won. They will be making Valentines for Meals on Wheels and are looking for other clubs to help. They need 370 Valentines. Great Divide and Chestnut Valley will help make them.

Great Divide:

They will be decoration Valentines for the nursing home as well as helping make them for the Meals on Wheels program.

Adjournment

Meeting was adjourned at 6:46 pm.

Next Meeting will be held on March 12, 2024 at 6:00 pm at MSU Extension Office and Web-ex. 

Submitted by Jill Skinner

APPROVED

Call to Order:

The meeting was called to order by President Keri Leggett at 6:04 pm. Leaders and members in attendance included:

Council Members:

President Keri Leggett (Great Divide), Secretary Jill Skinner (Great Divide), Treasurer Janet Smith (Running Free)

Ulm Pishkun:

Sandy Harshaw-Irvin, Kyree Morrison, Blake Leardini

Montana Sunsets:

Fran Gossack                                                                             

Running Free:

N/A                      

Big Sky Explorers:

Ryan, Kaylyn, Aidan, & Hannah Trebas                        

Trouble Shooters:

N/A

Great Divide:

Drew Skinner, Brenda Canine                                                      

Highwood Hustlers:

N/A

Circle S:

Shantel Herman                                                             

Eden Livestock:

N/A

Creative Clovers:

Ashley Adkins, Talmadge Adkins                                       

Tiger Butte:

N/A

Chestnut Valley:

Misty Ayers, Will Ayers, Rial McGregor, Hal McGregor, Juliet Pieper, Nichole Pieper, Sterling Bernes, Clara McKamey, Lane McKamey, Natalie McKamey, Ian McKamey, Isaac Edmondson, Allie Edmondson, Cassidy Cummings        

MSDB:

Cheri Luongo, Lucia Little                           

Extension Agents:

Allyssa Peak

Pledges:  

Kyree Morrison led the pledges.

Secretary’s Report:

President Keri Leggett gave everyone a minute to read through the September meeting minutes. Keri asked for any corrections or additions. September meeting minutes approved as presented.

Correspondence:

No correspondence.

Treasurers Report:

Checking balance as of November 11, 2023: $60,730.77

Saving Balance: $25.00               

Combined Total: $60,755.77

Pending bills include paying ice cream booth managers and $500 for achievement night pins.

Year net profit - $16,275.97

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Agent Report:

Report submitted by Allyssa Peak. Enrollment as of 11/12: 267 active youth members, 59 active volunteers, 18 pending youth members, & 17 pending volunteers. Office Closure: The Extension Office will be closed on Thursday, November 23 for Thanksgiving. Committee chairs, please get me your reports by the 20th of every even month. Additional comments: 250 projects books have been ordered and are waiting to be packaged and shipped.

Ambassadors Report:

Report submitted by Allyssa Peak. This year’s Ambassador Team is Seth Juhl – Ulm Pishkun, President; Kyree Morrison – Ulm Pishkun, Leaders Council Rep.; Leann Murphy – Ulm Pishkun, Foundation Rep.; Blake Leardini – Ulm Pishkun, Publicity Chair; Kailey Boberg – Eden Livestock; & Tristen Short – Ulm Pishkun.  Additional comments by Kyree Morrison: Met Sunday at 2:00 and chose rolls and decided on their service project – canned food drive. Cloverbud project day: They had 15 out of the 35 Cloverbuds attend and made hand turkeys and played games.

Communications Report:

No report submitted. They are still looking for a chair for the communication contest and fair. Contact Allyssa if interested.

Foods and Nutrition & Sewing and Textiles Report:

Report submitted by Alyssa Peak. There will be a cake decorating workshop at the December 9 Project Day presented by Brenda Canine. The Foods Festival and Stir up Cooking Competition are scheduled for February 7. Sewing and cooking needs help for project days. She wants to do more sewing project days. Sewing had 9 kids on project day.

Record Book & Achievement:

No report submitted. Fran Gossack and Erin Doyon judged 10 record books submitted for awards.  Requirements changed and there was no essay required. Project book requirements have been updated.

State Fair Planning Committee:

No report submitted.

GREEN TIE AFFAIR: 

Tabled until 2024.

HORSE LEADERS REPORT: 

Report submitted by Wendy Newman. Approved the rule book for the new year.  Worked on the topics for Project Days for the rest of the year.  Discussed show schedule and possible date changes.  More will be discussed in December.  December Project day will be the helmet education along with ornament decorating.

LIVESTOCK LEADERS REPORT:

No report submitted. New rules were approved at the last meeting. There will be no quota list this year. There are 14 kids in beef breeding this year. Club meeting attendance requirements have been put into place requiring livestock kids to attend 60% of their club meetings in order to show at the county show. Beef intent must be declared by January 3rd.

SHOOTING SPORTS COMMITTEE:

Report submitted by Samaria Kirby. Air rifle and air pistol have started. Archery will start in December with registration going out this month. Registration for hunting and western heritage will also go out this month for those interested. We are still looking for more instructors in all disciplines.

 

SPONSORSHIP:

No report submitted. 

 

Unfinished Business

ACHIEVEMENT NIGHT AND PROJECT FAIR: Had a great turnout of 90 – 100 people. Potluck style dinner before awards were handed out. The building was a great fit and we will use it again in the future.

OFFICER ELECTIONS:

Vice president and secretary terms are up for election. Samaria Kirby agreed to run again and Brenda Canine volunteered to run. A vote was held and Brenda Canine was elected as new Vice President of Leaders Council.

There were no other volunteers to run for secretary so Jill Skinner agreed to remain secretary for another term. Keri Leggett motioned for Jill Skinner to be retained as secretary; Fran Gossack seconded the motion; all were in favor; MOTION CARRIED***

Sandy Harshaw-Irwin motioned to remove Samaria Kirby from the banking accounts and add Brenda Canine to the banking accounts and signature cards. Drew Skinner seconded the motion; all were in favor; MOTION CARRIED***

New Business

BUDGET REPORT:

Janet reviewed the proposed budget and will meet with Allyssa to check some sections over.

BYLAWS REPORT:

No changes were needed this year therefore we will not be updating the bylaws this year.

WELCOMING NEW FAMILIES:

They had 10 new families attend including 25 kids. Please help new families feel welcome in the new clubs they choose

For the Good of Order

Ulm:

They elected new officers, discussed fundraisers for the upcoming year and planned the Christmas party at the bowling alley.

Running Free:

They will be helping out at Helping Hands and collecting polar fleece blankets.

Eden Livestock:

They will be making Piñata’s for the clubs to have at their Christmas parties.

Big Sky Explorers:

They elected new officers and are going to do shoe boxes for Operation Christmas Child.

Creative Clover:

Each family will take turn planning and leading a meeting.

Tiger Butte:

Had a potluck after the meeting in November.  Kids brought their record books and started them for the New Year.  Members are putting together food plates for the Belt Food bank to distribute with the Thanksgiving baskets.  The kids will assemble them after school and get them to the food bank.

MSDB:

Their fundraiser is collecting toys to donate to the receiving home.

Great Divide:

They elected new club officers and current president Nolan is helping create a club at Holy Spirit. They will also be having a Christmas party and decorating Christmas cards for the nursing homes at the next meeting.

Adjournment

Meeting was adjourned at 7:10 pm.

 

Next Meeting will be held on January 9, 2024 at 6:00 pm at MSU Extension Office and Web-ex.

 

Submitted by Jill Skinner

 

 

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