Cascade County 4-H Leaders Council Agendas & Minutes

Orders of the Day

Call to Order

Brenda Canine

Pledges

Roll Call

Minutes

Jill Skinner

Correspondence

Jill Skinner

Treasurer’s Report

Janet Smith

• Ice Cream Booth
• Green Clover Raffle
• Budget Requests by November Meeting

Reports

President Report

Brenda Canine

• Meeting Schedule for Year

Agent Report

Jenn Volkmar

Ambassador Report

 

Communications

 

Foods & Nutrition

Fran Gossack

Sewing & Textiles

Fran Gossack

Record Book & Achievement

Fran Gossack, Brenda Canine, Samaria Kirby

Horse Leaders

Wendy Newman, Ginger Murphy

Livestock Leaders

Brook Gerard, Heather Lewis

Shooting Sports Leaders

Samaria Kirby

Unfinished Business

 

New Business

• Meeting/Financial Best Practices
• Vice President/Secretary Elections at November Meeting
• 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 on November 11, 2025 at 6:00 at the Extension Office.

Adjournment

2025-2026 Leaders Council Meeting Dates

Tuesday Nov 11 at 6 pm

Tuesday Jan 13 at 6 pm

Tuesday March 10 at 6 pm

Tuesday May 12 at 6 pm

Tuesday July 14 at 6 pm

Agent Report:

• At the end of the year as of date we have 330 members and 79 volunteers.  
• The Green Clover Raffle should not coincide with the July and or the fair as the focus is on other areas of 4-H during that month and families are extremely busy.  Additionally, there is no need to have the end of the raffle go along with fair as none of the baskets were at the fair (food in them)  and most people would not pay to come to the fair to pick up baskets if they won them.  As a reminder to put on radar for everything we do in 4-H any tickets or printed item that has representation of 4-H on them needs to be reviewed by the agent to ensure we are in compliance with copyright requirements for both 4-H and MSU we cannot cover up the clover with numbers or MSU logos. 
• Fair Make and Take Demo day!- This canning makes and take was a hit and a highlight of the fair. This event along with the sewing demo day showcased the involvement of our ambassador/teen members while also provided parents with information about our county program that went beyond the usual thought of livestock being the main focus of 4-H.  We used all of our jars during the activity, showing the strong level of participation. Next year, it would be great to grow and expand again on areas that are unknown.  It was the busiest day of the fair in our section of the building  and allowed   parents waiting for their kids to do it to explore the club booths and items in the booths. Since the fair I have had follow-up with over a dozen families who have inquired about joining and I know Jody has as well.  

Committee Reports

Ambassador Report:

No report submitted.

Communications Report:

No report submitted.

Foods and Nutrition Report:

No report submitted.

Sewing and Textiles Report:

No report submitted.

Baby Blankets: No report submitted.

Record books and Achievement Report:

• $250 donation for M. Jones Memorial was made to allow for State Fair division awards for Exhibits (10 awards at $25 each)
• Thanks to all for their help in revamping the awards list. Input on 25 year awards, and other ways to honor those individuals is sought.  This mechanism has become unwieldy and is confusing every year as records change/get lost. Intent is great, just need a different process.
• Record books due to leaders in Aug and to office Sept 2. Date to review TBD. 
• Anyone interested in helping with record books is welcome to join this group.

State Fair Planning:

No report submitted.

Green Clover:

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.

UNAPPROVED

Call to Order:

The meeting was called to order by President Brenda Canine at 6:07 pm.

Leaders and members in attendance included:

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

Ulm Pishkun: Sandy Harshaw-Irwin, Asher Nelson, Ginger Murphy

Montana Sunsets: Fran Gossack                                     

Trouble Shooters: N/A

Running Free: N/A                                                      

Great Divide: Keri Leggett, Drew Skinner

Big Sky Explorers: Brit Asmussen                                

Creative Clovers: Ashley Adkins                                  

Ambassador: N/A                    

Circle S: N/A                                                               

Tiger Butte: Wendy Newman                

Eden Livestock: N/A                                                   

468 Club: N/A                                      

MSDB: N/A                                                                

Chestnut Valley: N/A

Sunny Spirits: N/A                                                      

Extension Agents: Jenn Volkmar

Galloping Guns: N/A                                                   

Guests: N/A

Pledges:

Drew Skinner led the pledges.

Secretary’s Report:

President Brenda Canine gave everyone a minute to read through the May and July 2025 meeting minutes.  Sandy motioned to approve May and July meeting minute; Samaria seconded. All were in favor. ***Motion carried***

Correspondence:

None

Treasurers Report:

Checking balance: $50,102.94

CD: $20,543.49

Saving Balance: $25.00           

Combined Total: $70,671.43

ICE CREAM BOOTH REPORT: Went really good this year. All shifts were appropriately filled. They ran out of ice cream at 9:00 pm on the final day. They profited $100+ more than last year. Total profit was $16,952.49. There is still a reimbursement balance due of $745 coming from coupons. It is noted that Janet recommends that the ice cream booth be painted before next year.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

PRESIDENTS REPORT - Brenda Canine: Presented a slide show reflecting the last year of 4-H.

AGENT REPORT – Jenn Volkmar: Go green for 4-H will be October 5-11^th. At the end of the year as of date we have 330 members and 79 volunteers. • The Green Clover Raffle should not coincide with the July and or the fair as the focus is on other areas of 4-H during that month and families are extremely busy. Additionally, there is no need to have the end of the raffle go along with fair as none of the baskets were at the fair (food in them) and most people would not pay to come to the fair to pick up baskets if they won them. As a reminder to put on radar for everything we do in 4-H any tickets or printed item that has representation of 4-H on them needs to be reviewed by the agent to ensure we are in compliance with copyright requirements for both 4-H and MSU we cannot cover up the clover with numbers or MSU logos. • Fair Make and Take Demo day! This canning makes and take was a hit and a highlight of the fair. This event along with the sewing demo day showcased the involvement of our ambassador/teen members while also provided parents with information about our county program that went beyond the usual thought of livestock being the main focus of 4-H. We used all of our jars during the activity, showing the strong level of participation. Next year, it would be great to grow and expand again on areas that are unknown. It was the busiest day of the fair in our section of the building and allowed parents waiting for their kids to do it to explore the club booths and items in the booths. Since the fair I have had follow-up with over a dozen families who have inquired about joining and I know Jody has as well.

AMBASSADORS REPORT – Kyree Morrison:  No report submitted. Leaders Appreciation will be September 21^st from 2-4 at the Paddock club.  They are restructuring the ambassador program and considering temporary ambassadors to get kids 14+ involved in the program.

COMMUNICATIONS REPORT - Vacant: NO REPORT SUBMITTED.

FOODS AND NUTRITION - Fran Gossack: NO REPORT SUBMITTED.

SEWING AND TEXTILES REPORT -Fran Gossack: NO REPORT SUBMITTED.

RECORD BOOK & ACHIEVEMENT -Fran Gossack: • $250 donation for M. Jones Memorial was made to allow for State Fair division awards for Exhibits (10 awards at $25 each) • Thanks to all for their help in revamping the awards list. Input on 25 year awards, and other ways to honor those individuals is sought. This mechanism has become unwieldy and is confusing every year as records change/get lost. Intent is great, just need a different process. • Record books due to leaders in Aug and to office Sept 2. Date to review TBD. • Anyone interested in helping with record books is welcome to join this group.

STATE FAIR PLANNING COMMITTEE: Jenn Volkmar: NO REPORT SUBMITTED.

HORSE LEADERS REPORT: Ginger Murphy – Had a full summer with camps, clinics and shows. WRHF state will be Sept 12-14 at the 406 arena. Horse rule changes are due by September 22^nd. September 26-28 will be the state horse show at the 406 arena.                                                                     ******** They need barrel setters to help with the MBHA Finals at the fairgrounds October 3-5; please keep an eye out for the sign up email. You do not need to be in the horse project to sign up. This is a huge fundraiser for the horse program. Horsey Halloween will be November 2^nd and the next horse meeting will be October 7^th.

LIVESTOCK LEADERS REPORT:Brook Gerard – Livestock leaders made standing committees to help spread the load for the livestock show and sale.  Education 101 days are being planned for project days. Livestock leaders will be coming to club meetings to go over the livestock rules. State fair meeting is coming up to discuss moving the show to the fair. Make sure to sign up for animal market classes between October 1^st and 31^st.

SHOOTING SPORTS COMMITTEE: Samaria Kirby – Meetings have changed to four times a year. They will meet in October, January, April, and June on the 1^st Thursday of the month at 6:00 pm. Sign up for shooting sports projects beginning Oct. 1. Cascade Invitational will be in February.

SPONSORSHIP:N/A 

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

GREEN CLOVER RAFFLE: The Green Clover Raffle brought $4,385. The only expense was ticket printing in the amount of $183.98; leaving a profit of $4201.02. The potential profit if all 295 members sold the tickets would have been $5900 however several clubs did not meet the ticket sales requirements. The top selling club was Creative Clovers and they win a pizza party. Jolan Molnar was the top ticket seller and will win a gift card. *** Janet motioned to purchase a $50 gift card to shop 4-H for the top seller. Samaria seconded the motion. All were in favor. MOTION CARRIED *** Janet recommended rewarding the five clubs that met the ticket sales requirements with $100. Clubs getting $100 are: Tiger Butte, Creative Clovers, Montana Sunsets, Galloping Guns, and Running Free. *****Jill motioned to award the five clubs that met the ticket sales requirements with $100. Samaria seconded the motion. All were in favor *** MOTION CARRIED.

Discussion was prompted after the vote to consider raising enrollment fees instead of doing a raffle. It was decided that a survey would go out to members to ask if they would prefer selling raffle tickets or increasing membership fees to offset the fundraiser. The survey will ask families if they would 1) want to continue selling tickets for the Green Clover Raffle – each member must sell $20 worth. 2) Raise the membership fee from $10 to $20 for youth and from $6 to $10 for adult volunteers. The survey will be sent out by email and will be available for one week. ***Janet motioned to conduct a survey asking if members would prefer a fee increase or continue the raffle. New fees would potentially be: $20 for youth and $10 for adult volunteers. Results of the survey will be final. Hardship scholarships will be available to families. Sandy seconded the motion. All were in favor *** MOTION CARRIED***

NEW BUSINESS

MEETING/FINANCIAL BEST PRACTICES: Meeting with the state to determine best practice regarding how finances are handled at the office – procedures, shared drive, and possible deposit changes.

VICE PRESIDENT/SECRETARY ELECTIONS AT NOVEMBER MEETING: Nominations and elections will take place at the November meeting for the Vice President and Secretary positions.

POLICY/BYLAWS REVIEW COMMITTEE: Fran and Samaria will help with the committee.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Next Meeting will be held on November 11, 2025 at 6:00 pm at MSU Extension Office and Web-ex.

FOR THE GOOD OF ORDER

Ulm: They have the Ulm Volunteer Fire Department pancake breakfast coming up on September 27^th. They also have made extra club officer positions such as rec leader and game leader.

Horse Leaders: They collected funds to help Eagle Mounts equine program and will plan a field trip out to their facility to give the donation.

ADJOURNMENT

Janet motioned to end the meeting, Samaria seconded the motion, motion carried. Meeting was adjourned at 7:22 pm.

 

Submitted by Jill Skinner

APPROVED

Call to Order:

The meeting was called to order by President Brenda Canine at 6:05 pm.

Leaders and members in attendance included:

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

Ulm Pishkun: N/A

Montana Sunsets: Fran Gossack                                     

Trouble Shooters: N/A

Running Free: N/A                                                      

Great Divide: N/A

Big Sky Explorers: N/A                                   

Creative Clovers: N/A                                                 

Ambassador: N/A                    

Circle S: N/A                                                               

Tiger Butte: N/A                 

Eden Livestock: N/A                                                   

468 Club: N/A                                      

MSDB: Megan DeSilva , Annette Chandler                   

Chestnut Valley: N/A

Sunny Spirits: N/A                                                      

Extension Agents: N/A

Galloping Guns: N/A                                                   

Guests: N/A

Pledges:

Brenda Canine led the pledges.

Secretary’s Report:

President Brenda Canine gave everyone a minute to read through the May 2025 meeting minutes. Approval of minutes was tabled – no quorum.  

Correspondence:

None

Treasurers Report:

Checking balance: $29,193.91

CD: $20,543.49

Saving Balance: $25.00           

Combined Total: $49,762.40

Additional information from the treasurer: Getting ready to spend money on diary booth and the raffle will be ending soon. Camp this year had 82 kids at $70 per camper. Income was $5,241.62 and expenses for camp were $ 6136.81 leaving leader’s council covering $895.19 for camp.

Debit card was hacked again with a charge to Amazon for $14.99. Our debit was shut down and a new one was issued. We need to have a sign out sheet so we know who is using the LC debit card, on what site, and what the amount it was used for.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

PRESIDENTS REPORT - Brenda Canine: Green raffle is still going with tickets due to the office by July 23rd. The 12 baskets that have been turned in look nice. Ambassadors will have a table at the fair to sell remaining tickets. Drawing will be at the fair on August 2nd. Fair sign up for static entries is due by 4:00 pm on August 16th on FairEntry.

AGENT REPORT – Jenn Volkmar: Important dates: July 16th – Fair entries due; July 22nd – Club booth set up; July 24th – static judging.

The stands and boxes used at the fair will need to be repaired or replaced in the near future – could be a service project for some clubs.

Demonstration day at the fair: would leader’s council sponsor a canning demonstration at the fair? They would need jars, brine, fruits and veggies.

Judges for static judging will be community members and other agents staying within MSU guidelines of unbiased judges.

Thank you gifts:  can there be a budget made for thank you gifts. Jenn would purchase 4-h items to keep on hand as thank you gifts. Most counties have mugs, local gift cards.

There will be a 4-h training coming up in September. Date to be announced.

State is hosting a “how to be a volunteer Institute” October 3-5 in Billings. This is only for adult leaders.

Leaders Appreciation will be August 21st at the Paddock Club at the fairgrounds from 2-4:00 pm.

Achievement night will be October 12th at 2:00 at the family living building at the fairgrounds. Ambassadors are planning the event.

Email: please use the official email – cascade@montana.edu when sending to the office, not Jody’s personal email.

AMBASSADORS REPORT – Kyree Morrison:  No report submitted.

COMMUNICATIONS REPORT - Vacant: No report submitted.

FOODS AND NUTRITION - Fran Gossack: there are numerous contests members can enter at the fair even if they aren’t enrolled in the projects.  There are a lot of chances to win ribbons and premiums.

SEWING AND TEXTILES REPORT -Fran Gossack: there are numerous contests members can enter at the fair even if they aren’t enrolled in the projects.  There are a lot of chances to win ribbons and premiums. Baby blankets have to be trimmed and decided where they will be donated to.

RECORD BOOK & ACHIEVEMENT -Fran Gossack: Members should be working on their record books and getting them ready to turn into their club leaders.         25 year award info is still needed; letters went out but no response. Divisions are covered this year regardless by an anonymous donor. Other awards have been checked and are ready to be sent out in the list.

STATE FAIR PLANNING COMMITTEE: Jenn Volkmar: Dairy booth is coming up soon – just finishing up planning. Important dates: July 16th – Fair entries due; July 22nd – Club booth set up; July 24th – static judging. The stands and boxes used at the fair will need to be repaired or replaced in the near future – could be a service project for some clubs. Reduced fair entry tickets will be at the office – 10 tickets for $30.

GREEN CLOVER FUNDRAISER: Brenda Canine: Green raffle is still going with tickets due to the office by July 23rd. The 12 baskets that have been turned in look nice. Ambassadors will have a table at the fair to sell remaining tickets. Drawing will be at the fair on August 2nd.

HORSE LEADERS REPORT:  Wendy Newman – County horse show will be at the 406 arena August 1-3.

LIVESTOCK LEADERS REPORT: Jill Mackey – Livestock show and sale was a success. 190 lots sold totaling over $570,000

SHOOTING SPORTS COMMITTEE: Samaria Kirby – record book checks for shooting sports projects are due to the office by July 16th.

SPONSORSHIP: N/A 

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

NONE

NEW BUSINESS

DAIRY BOOTH: The closing shifts on August 2nd need to be filled. Shift from 3:30 to 7:00 needs more kids and the shift from 7:00 to close needs everyone – kids and adults.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Next Meeting will be held on September 9, 2025 at 6:00 pm at MSU Extension Office and Web-ex.

FOR THE GOOD OF ORDER

Sunny Spirits: Went to the Cutco (sp) Lab in the Black Hills. It is very similar to rec lab. Had a wonderful time and they recommend everyone going.

ADJOURNMENT

Meeting was adjourned at 7:16 pm.

 

Submitted by Jill Skinner

UNAPPROVED

Call to Order:

The meeting was called to order by President Brenda Canine at 6:03 pm.

Leaders and members in attendance included:

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

Ulm Pishkun: Sandy Harshaw Irvin, Brook Gerard

Montana Sunsets: Fran Gossack                                     

Trouble Shooters: N/A

Running Free: Greta Graft                                            

Great Divide: Drew Skinner

Big Sky Explorers: Brittney Asmussen, Bonnie Asmussen                                             

Creative Clovers: Ashley Adkins                                  

Ambassador: N/A                    

Circle S: N/A                                                               

Tiger Butte: Meghan Johnson, Wendy Newman                 

Eden Livestock: N/A                                                   

468 Club: Todd Standley                                              

MSDB: Megan DeSilva                                                

Chestnut Valley: N/A

Sunny Spirits: N/A                                                      

Extension Agents: Jenn Volkmar

Galloping Guns: N/A                                                   

Guests: N/A

Pledges:

Drew Skinner led the pledges.

Secretary’s Report:

President Brenda Canine gave everyone a minute to read through the March 2025 meeting minutes. Brenda asked for any corrections or additions. Sandy motioned to approve the minutes.  Samaria seconded the motion. All in favor, March meeting minutes approved.

Correspondence:

None

Treasurers Report:

Checking balance: $33,752.36

CD: $20,489.40

Saving Balance: $25.00           

Combined Total: $54,266.76

COMMITTEE REPORTS

PRESIDENTS REPORT - Brenda Canine: Brenda presented a report on the ages of our 4-H members. We currently have 320 kids enrolled – most of these kids are first year members.

AGENT REPORT – Jenn Volkmar: Horse camp was May 2-3 and had a great turnout. They are planning 4-H camp and Friday is the last day to register. Camp will be June 8 – 11 with JD’s going up June7th. Last project day was in May and there will be no project days in June, July, August, September, or October. Fair board is meeting virtually through June and premium books are not out yet. Livestock show is coming up in July and they are using the showman app this year – record book judging will be June 24^th.

Office Matters: They are down to one copy machine so anything with over 50 copies will need to be outsourced. Color copies are not free and cost 4-H so be cautious when requesting color copies. Please cash any 4-H checks within 90 days or they will be voided and reissued. Foundation Scholarships went to Clayton Jassen, Leanne Murphy, and Elizabeth Doyon. There is some concern with how to get members involved in competition event s such as stir ups and fashion review. Insurance – MSU changed insurance policy and any events happening outside of the office require additional insurance and the office must be notified in advance. If you are using the 4-H clover in any way, it must be approved by the office before it is sent out.

AMBASSADORS REPORT – Kyree Morrison:  No report submitted. They have scheduled two events coming up: Sunday Sept 21^st will be the Leaders appreciation social at the Paddock Club and Sunday October 12^th will be Achievement night and will be at the Family Living Center at the fairgrounds.

COMMUNICATIONS REPORT - Vacant: No report submitted. The communications contest had five participants this year.

FOODS AND NUTRITION - Fran Gossack: Project Day hits with members have been cake decorating & bread in a bag. Congress-qualifying event for Stir Ups will be on May 20, 2025. Also May 20 will be Foods Festival which includes 5 different contests: Edible Arts, Daily Foods, Baked Foods, Table Setting, & Cake Decorating. A great way for members to start prepping for Fair.

SEWING AND TEXTILES REPORT -Fran Gossack: Project Day March, April, & May have been used to let members sew baby blankets. Fran took 5 sewing machines to Bernina Silver Thimble for service at a discounted price of $325.75. May 20, 2025 will be the Fashion Revue & Quilt Show with blue ribbon 13 & older members qualifying for Congress.

Baby Blankets: Fran Gossack - Good turnout at March & April Project Day. Different skill levels were offered this year. Fran led the easily sewn & surged blanket version. For more experienced sewers, Theresa & Nicole offered 2 quilted/patched blanket versions based on the Quilting project information. This also helped reduce our stash of small fabric pieces. We’ve had parents sewing alongside their children plus everyone helping each other. Thanks to Janet Smith for providing help in multiple ways in March.

RECORD BOOK & ACHIEVEMENT-Fran Gossack: Brenda, Samaria, & Fran have been working on updating the awards list and application method. They are creating a request letter to seek donors for Fair awards as these have dwindled the last several years. It’s felt that we should be recognizing members who have excellent exhibits & win contests thereby showing growth in their project areas.                                               

STATE FAIR PLANNING COMMITTEE: Jenn Volkmar: They will have a virtual meeting at the end of May. They are going to need more static entries in order to have more space during the fair.

GREEN CLOVER FUNDRAISER:Brenda Canine: See New Business section.

HORSE LEADERS REPORT: Wendy Newman – Horse camp had 45 kids participate. They offered a variety of classes and had a great time. Kids from neighboring counties were able to come join camp.

LIVESTOCK LEADERS REPORT:Jill Mackey – Will be working on the catalog and they are using the Showman App this year – it will allow all data to be in one source and allow for better planning. Showman will also have live support the weekend of the show and include everything they need. Record book judging will be June 24^th beginning at 5:30. The livestock pavilion will open July 9^th for set up and poultry will move across to the other barn for more room. Breeding show will be the 9^th at 2:00pm and the poultry show will be the 9^th at 4:00pm. Thursday will be move in for the remaining animals, Friday will begin the market shows and sale and Saturday will be showmanship. The carcass contest will take place during the show this year using ultrasound.

SHOOTING SPORTS COMMITTEE: Samaria Kirby – No report submitted. Shotgun had 16 kids shooting at the trap club. They finished their raffle and the top sellers were Lane and Isis.  They will have archery at 4-H camp. Record books are due July 16^th using a non-animal project book and skills sheet.

SPONSORSHIP:N/A 

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

GREEN CLOVER RAFFLE: Packets have gone out to leaders including tickets, flyers, a recording sheet for leaders, and an informational sheet. Club baskets ($100 value) are due to the office June 18^th and should not contain any perishable items. Tickets will be $5 each or 5 for $20 and are due back to club leaders by July 23^rd. There will be rewards for top selling clubs and kids. Remaining ticket will be sold at the livestock show and state fair.

ACHIEVEMENT NIGHT: Fran, Samaria, and Brenda have been going through the award list and removing old awards and checking on unknown status awards, and award requirements. Brenda made a donation letter to send out to businesses to see if we can get award sponsors. There is an anonymous donor this year that will fund any award not funded by another sponsor. They have also requested a donor/sponsor list from bookkeeping to make sure we do not approach donors twice.

NEW BUSINESS

MONTANA CREDIT UNION CD: The CD at Montana Credit Union will expire on May 25, 2025. Janet recommended renewing the CD at the current rate of 3.75%.

Jill Skinner motioned to renew the CD at Montana Credit Union for a second seven month term. Samaria Kirby seconded the motion. All were in favor. ***MOTION CARRIED

CAMP BUDGET: The fee to rent Camp Rotary went up this year and food costs are higher than previous years. Rent is now $300 per night totaling $1200 verse $900 in the past. Last year, they spent $2500 on food and that will not be enough this year to cover all the extra cost of camp.

Jill moved to add an extra $2500 to the camp budget this year. Samaria seconded the motion. All were in favor. ***MOTION CARRIED

DAIRY BOOTH: Dairy booth will run from July25th through August 2^nd. Janet and Samaria will be the managers again this year. The office will make a list of 11+ year olds that are eligible to work a shift. There are 26 shifts to be filled over the week. Each shift needs at least 3 adults and 5+ kids to make it work. We are using the same vendor and will need to pay for half of the ice cream up front. Insurance is requiring that ALL WORKERS sign in before entering the booth.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

There is a conflict for the July meeting date due to Congress. Fran motioned to move the next Leaders Council meeting to Tuesday July 15^th. Samaria seconded the motion. All were in favor *** MOTION CARRIED.

Next Meeting will be held on July 15, 2025 at 6:00 pm at MSU Extension Office and Web-ex.

FOR THE GOOD OF ORDER

Trouble Shooters: Took two members on a spree to help purchase items for the raffle basket. Kids had a great time! Their theme is fishing.

Other known club basket themes include: outdoor games, movie night, 4-H comfort, Christmas in July, and Made in Montana.

ADJOURNMENT

Meeting was adjourned at 7:57 pm. Sandy motioned, Jill seconded, all in favor – Motion carried***

 

Submitted by Jill Skinner

APPROVED

Call to Order:

The meeting was called to order by President Brenda Canine at 6:04 pm.

Leaders and members in attendance included:

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

Ulm Pishkun: Sandy Harshaw Irvin, Felicia Short, Taylor Short

Montana Sunsets: Fran Gossack , Jody Cope, Isis Baumgartner                           

Running Free: Greta Graft                                            

Great Divide: N/A

Big Sky Explorers: N/A                                               

Trouble Shooters: N/A

Creative Clovers: Lindsey Zgoda                                  

Ambassador: Kyree Morrison               

Circle S:                                                                      

Tiger Butte: Lisa Jassen                 

Eden Livestock: N/A                                                   

468 Club: N/A                                      

MSDB: N/A                                                                

Chestnut Valley: Misty Ayers

Sunny Spirits: N/A                                                      

Extension Agents: Jenn Volkmar

Galloping Guns: Rebecca Phillips                                 

Guests: Brady Drummond

Pledges:

Taylor Short and Brenda Canine led the pledges.

Roll Call Question: ‘What is your favorite thing about spring?’

Secretary’s Report:

President Brenda Canine gave everyone a minute to read through the January 2025 meeting minutes. Brenda asked for any corrections or additions. ***An email stated that Makailey Petronek was online and Shantel Herman and Shyanne Herman were online for part of the meeting. Samaria Kirby motioned to approve the minutes. Fran Gossack seconded the motion. All in favor, January meeting minutes approved as with corrections.

Correspondence:

Email regarding missed WebEx attendance on January meeting minutes.

Treasurers Report:

Checking balance: $31,545.35

CD: $20,227.07

Saving Balance: $25.00           

Combined Total: $51,797.42

Several checks have not cleared the bank – most of them were the $100 donations from Leaders Council to the clubs. Checks older than 90 days will have to be reissued. Checks in the drawer will be reissued and clubs without bank accounts will have to turn in for reimbursement.

Guests:  

Brady Drummond, sister of Keely Drummond, joined us online to talk about the memorial scholarship in Keely’s honor. A memorial scholarship in the amount of $1000 will be available to 4-H members active in the lamb and horse projects. Keely was a ten year member of 4-H and participated in both lamb and horse projects. Keely passed away of ocular melanoma in October. Some requirements include: have completed two years in horse or lamb; win grand champion, or be a senior. Applicants will need to submit a one minute video saying why 4-H is important to you. The video will then need to be posted and shared on social media including newsletter, Facebook. The deadline for applications this year is April 15^th.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

PRESIDENTS REPORT - Brenda Canine: N/A

AGENT REPORT – Jenn Volkmar: Fair meetings are happening once a month – working on premium books, activities, and the schedule; also looking into options for culinary at the fair. All 4-H agents were in Missoula for training. April project day will include LQA makeup, photography; May will have dog obedience. They are looking into options for all payments to be made online. Camp will be June 8-11^th; registration opens April 1^st and planning is underway. The theme for camp will be Hawaii. Effective immediately – all contracts must be sent through state office, this includes anything that has to be signed and has terms and conditions – this may affect deadlines so plan accordingly.

Camp fee discussion: the topic of fees for camp was brought up. It was discussed raising camp fees to accommodate increasing prices of food and other supplies. Jill Skinner motioned to increase the camp fee to $70 per camper. Janet Smith seconded the motion. Discussion included offering a hardship scholarship if a family needs assistance. Other camps for less time cost far more than this camp. All were in favor. ***Motion Carried.

AMBASSADORS REPORT – Kyree Morrison: Ambassadors are helping with Cloverbud project days. Hey are also helping with the community wide service project sewing baby blankets. There will be a meet and great at the April project day. They will be offering help with project books and planning to visit every club during their meeting. Promotions for next year will go out in June – October. They are considering doing the leaders appreciation event again.

COMMUNICATIONS REPORT - Vacant: There will be a communications practice at the next project day. Communications contest scheduled for April 12^th and 13^th.Jody Cumberbaugh (sp) has offered to help prep kids.

FOODS AND NUTRITION - Fran Gossack: See submitted committee report.

SEWING AND TEXTILES REPORT -Fran Gossack: See submitted committee report. Had 67 sewers from 9 am to 2 pm on project day for the communitywide service project of sewing baby blankets. Officer Frink also came and spoke to the kids.

RECORD BOOK & ACHIEVEMENT-Fran Gossack: They need input and might send out a survey. Awards need to be checked and revamped. They need to remove awards that are no longer funded. Samaria offered to help Fran; Erin’s commitment is unknown.

STATE FAIR PLANNING COMMITTEE: Jenn Volkmar: State fair will be July 25^th through August 2^nd. They are currently beginning phase of planning and meeting once a month.

GREEN CLOVER FUNDRAISER:Brenda Canine: See New Business section.

HORSE LEADERS REPORT: Lisa Jassen – Planning horse camp for May – registration will open soon. It will begin Friday May 2^nd at 3:00 and go through Saturday at the 406 arena. They will have presenters, classes, and activities and include dinner, breakfast, and lunch. April project day will have Paul Johnson – Dept. of Livestock, teach about brands. Also hoping to have some clinics this summer along with the county horse shows August 1^st and 2nd at the 406 arena with Teton County.

LIVESTOCK LEADERS REPORT:Jill Mackey – Livestock show will be July 9-13 and they are currently in the planning phase for the show and barn setup and getting contracts in line. They are considering adding events on Thursday including rabbits, chickens, dairy, and breeding projects. They may have to use the rabbit and poultry barn because they have so many kids signed up. Livestock awards have been picked already; the theme is Christmas in July; and they will be using ultrasound for the carcass contest this year.

SHOOTING SPORTS COMMITTEE: Samaria Kirby – see report submitted. Shooting at the trap club available April 10-15.

SPONSORSHIP:N/A 

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

BYLAWS & OPERATING POLICYAPPROVAL: Brenda asked if anyone had any questions regarding the bylaws and operating policies that were presented at the previous meetings. Janet Smith motioned to approve the Bylaws and Operating policy as presented. Samaria Kirby seconded the motion. All were in favor. ***MOTION CARRIED

NEW BUSINESS

GREEN TIE AFFAIR/RAFFLE DICUSSION: To have it successful, it would be better to have packets sent to leaders and handed out, and then tickets and money go back to the leader to be turned in. It is important to explain what the money raised goes to especially since clubs have to spend their money on items for the baskets. We need a smaller window for ticket sales; smaller baskets size requirements or fewer baskets per larger club – basket guidelines. 14 clubs would yield 14 baskets; 4-6 weeks would be an adequate timeframe, possibly ending state fair week. Sunny Spirits and MSBD only operate during the school year so do we require them to do a basket?? BASKETS SUGGESTIONS: 1 per club, $100 basket value (nonperishable items); Brenda, Lisa, Samaria, and Janet will be on the planning committee.

SHOOTING SPORTS: Shooting sports would like to hold a 10 gun raffle fundraiser again. They will sell between 500 – 100 tickets with the drawing in May and funds will go towards training instructors and 3D Archery equipment. Sandy Harshaw-Irwin motioned to approve shooting sports 10 gun raffle fundraiser. Lisa Jassen seconded the motion. All were in favor. Motion carried.

LEGISLATIVE BREAKFAST: 4-H kids go to Helena on a Sun/Mon to meet state representatives, have breakfast, tour the capital, and learn about procedures. It is a learning event from a community service aspect. Leaders Council was asked to donate $100 towards the breakfast. Lisa Jassen motioned to approve spending $100 on the Legislative breakfast. Samaria Kirby seconded the motion. All were in favor. ***MOTION CARRIED

ACHIEVEMENT NIGHT: Achievement night is planned and presented by the agent and the ambassadors. There will be food and awards. There will be more help needed than just the ambassadors. Will table and discuss more at the next meeting. Leader’s appreciation is separate event possibly after fair.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Next Meeting will be held on May 13, 2025 at 6:00 pm at MSU Extension Office and Web-ex.

FOR THE GOOD OF ORDER

Ulm Pishkun: They have filled 2000+ Easter eggs for the Ulm hunt. They just had 3000 eggs more donated. They also painted the U on Ulm hill.

Running Free: They had a club meeting and made coasters and key chains from leather using tools they checked out from the office.

Great Divide: Painted inspirational rocks at the last club meeting and will hide them at the June meeting.

ADJOURNMENT

Meeting was adjourned at 7:58 pm. Sandy motioned, Jill seconded, all in favor – Motion carried***

 

Submitted by Jill Skinner

 

March 2025 Committee Reports

Agents Report: No report submitted.

Ambassadors Report: No report submitted.

Communications Report: No report submitted.

Foods and Nutrition Report: Fran Gossack February 8, 2025 Project Day – again the members doing cake decorating had a blast! It’s great to have our local talents step forward & share with our eager members. Congress-qualifying event for Stir Ups will be on May 20, 2025. Also May 20 will be Foods Festival which includes 5 different contests: Edible Arts, Daily Foods, Baked Foods, Table Setting, & Cake Decorating. This is a great way for members to have their presentations critiqued to be prepared for Fair.

Sewing and Textiles Report: Fran Gossack –– February 8, 2025 Project Day, 2 sewers with parental assistance made mug rugs that involved piecing & quilting techniques. Congress-qualifying events Fashion Revue & Quilt Show will be held on May 20, 2025. Questions – ask!

BABY BLANKETS - March 8, 2025 Project Day – county-wide community service event for 4-H members. During morning and afternoon sessions, members with help from our 4-H Ambassadors & adults sewed & surged to create flannel baby blankets to be donated within our county.

Record books and Achievement Report: Fran Gossack - Need input from members & leaders to help us make improvements.

State Fair Planning: No report submitted.

Horse Leaders Report: No report submitted.

Livestock Leaders Reports: No report submitted.

Shooting Sports Leaders Committee Report: Samaria Kirby: Next meeting date: March 6, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.  Report: Archery will be done on March 3. We had 57 kids take part. Small-bore Rifle has 6 kids shooting until March 18th and Small-bore Pistol has 2 kids shooting until March 21st. Hunting and Western Heritage are still going through June. Shotgun registration will come out in March and practice will begin at the beginning of April for 6 weeks. Our Live Tournament went well and we had 101 entries for archery, 36 entries for air rifle, and 9 entries for air pistol.

APPROVED with corrections (see March minutes)

Call to Order:

The meeting was called to order by President Brenda Canine at 6:03 pm.

Leaders and members in attendance included:

Council Members: President Brenda Canine (Great Divide), Vice President – Vacant, Secretary Jill Skinner (Great Divide)

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

Montana Sunsets: Fran Gossack                                     

Running Free: N/A                  

Big Sky Explorers: Bret & Brittney Asmussen              

Trouble Shooters: Samaria Kirby

Great Divide: N/A                                                       

Creative Clovers: Ashley Adkins

Circle S: N/A                                                               

Eden Livestock: N/A

Tiger Butte: N/A                                                               

Chestnut Valley: Misty Petronik, Nicole Pieper 

MSDB: Annette Chandler, Megan DeSilva                   

468 Club: N/A

Sunny Spirits: Sandy Welsh                                         

Extension Agents: Jenn Volkmar

GUEST: Jodi Koterba – Montana Farmers Union          

Club unknown: Rebecca Phillips

Pledges:  

Bret Asmussen led the pledges.

Secretary’s Report:

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

Correspondence:

None.

Treasurers Report:

Tabled

GUEST:

Jodi Koterba from Montana Farmers Union presented information on grants available through MFU. Clubs can write a one sentence request on what they would use the grant for and will be awarded $100. If clubs publicly thank MFU for the grant and tag Jodi, they will receive an additional $50. Information can be found at mtfarmersunion.com Scholarships and other grants also opened up. 4-H members can also get a free membership to MFU which can be used to go to camp at a reduced rate amongst other perks. Jodi is also a former 4-H leader and would be happy to come to club meetings and help with an Ag demonstration. 

COMMITTEE REPORTS

PRESIDENTS REPORT -Brenda Canine:

Brenda presented a PowerPoint introducing board members and talking about the prevalence of 4-H across the nation. There are 20,000 members in Montana and 6.5 million members across the US.

AMBASSADORS REPORT – Kyree Morrison:

No report submitted. There are five ambassadors. They will meet the 4^th Tuesday of every month. They will be scheduling with clubs to come out and meet them and talk about ambassadors. They will be helping with Cloverbud project days.

AGENT REPORT – Jenn Volkmar:

MSU Extension will have two booths at the MAGIE this week. Extension will have a booth and 4-H will have a booth. There will be some FFA and 4-H competitions at the show. Leadership members will be in Helena for the Academy. Jody is on vacation this week and all of her emails will be forwarded. CLUBS – make sure you are submitting your club meeting minutes to the Jody at the office and use her work email not her personal email. Reminder to leaders – members must be enrolled in a main project to be enrolled in a subproject. If you would like your club featured on the Facebook page, send pictures to Jenn. There are new forms on Z Suites: expenditure forms (must be filled out two weeks in advance and returned no later than two weeks after. They will be starting State Fair planning via Zoom meetings on Tuesday. Camp June 8-11: JD’s will go June 7^th, applications due 2/3. 99 kids attended January project day; February project day will include star base, horse, baking and small animal 101. Foods festival, stir-ups, and quilt and fashion review will be May 20^th.

COMMUNICATIONS REPORT - Vacant:

No report submitted.

FOODS AND NUTRITION -Fran Gossack:

December 2024 Project Day was a continuation of a Preservation workshop from November 2024. Led by Felicia O’Brien, it featured Jams & Jellies. Members made strawberry jam using frozen fruit and an electric jam/jelly making appliance. A cake decorating workshop will be held at the January 11, 2025 Project Day. Foods Festival which features five different food contests will be May 20, 2025. The Stir Ups Congress qualifying contest will be May 20, 2025. More information will be available but those with questions can contact Fran Gossack.

SEWING AND TEXTILES REPORT -Fran Gossack

No sewing for December 2024 Project Day. Fran Gossack will lead an appliqued Snowman door hanger workshop for the January 11, 2025 Project Day. May 20, 2025 will be the Quilt Show & Fashion Revue which is a 13-years & older Congress qualifying event. More information will be available, but those with questions can contact Fran Gossack.

BABY BLANKETS Fran Gossack Plans are to have this county-wide community service project. Deciding when to do this. Perhaps during Project Day with additional times/days so more members can participate. Please let us know.

RECORD BOOK & ACHIEVEMENT: Fran Gossack

We will be doing some reviewing/updating. Please submit anything you would like check out or added. Do you have any ideas for awards or for sponsors of these? Every aspect regarding awards needs to be evaluated and revamped. Some awards are on list that are no longer active or being funded.

STATE FAIR PLANNING COMMITTEE: Fran Gossack

Submit any concerns that you have so that they can be addressed. The Fair will be reviewing in the near future so we need to know. State fair meetings will begin Tuesday with Zoom meetings.

SPONSORSHIP: Jenn Volkmar

Sponsorship for the livestock show has been received from Steel Ect. Scheels has sponsored project day. Livestock and horse have a set list of people they reach out to from 2022. There is a list of all money sent in and where it went and we will need Lisa to update it so we do not double dip into sponsors.

GREEN CLOVER FUNDRAISER:

N/A

HORSE LEADERS REPORT: Ginger Murphy

Horse judging team went to Denver National Roundup and took 6^th overall; in addition to several top 10 awards. Leann took 7^th in individual performance – great experience. Project day was well attended. Horse camp will be in May; horse show will be August 1st; county ranch horse show August 2^nd; state horse show in September. Next meeting is February 4^th at the extension office.

LIVESTOCK LEADERS REPORT:Brook Gerard

Swine 101 was the January project day and small animal 101 will be the February project day. Attending the project days will meet LQA requirements. There will be makeup offered. Beef weigh in is Sunday and there will be a makeup offered. They are in the planning phase of the livestock show which will be July 10 – 13, 2025.

SHOOTING SPORTS COMMITTEE: Samaria Kirby 

Archery practice started on December 2nd with 54 members taking part. .22 Rifle & .22 Pistol registrations will be open on January 13th. .22 Rifle practice will begin on January 28, 2024 and .22 Pistol practice will begin on January 30, 2024. Tournaments are starting in January around the state so keep an eye out for e-mails for dates of these tournaments. Our 2025 Cascade County Invitational will be on February 15, 2025 and registration will open up on January 13, 2025.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

ELECTIONS: Vice President is currently vacant. Brenda asked for any volunteers for the position. The only volunteer was Samaria Kirby. Ginger Murphy moved to cast a unanimous vote for Samaria Kirby to be Vice President. Sandy Harshaw-Irwin seconded the motion. All were in Favor. MOTION CARRIED

APPROVAL OF BUDGET 2024-2025: Jill Skinner moved to approve the budget as presented. Samaria Kirby seconded the motion. All were in favor. MOTION CARRIES AND BUDGET IS APPROVED.

                Question regarding past money from the state for fair: The state used to reimburse for fair                superintendents but they no longer do.

BYLAWS AND OPERATING POLICY REVIEW:  Brenda went over changes to the bylaws and they will be voted on at the March Leaders Council meeting.

NEW BUSINESS

SPEAKER SYSTEM FOR EVENTS: We are in need of a new speaker system for events. The system they are looking at cost $1199 + case + an extra microphone totaling $1799.96

We are also in need of walkie-talkies. A six pack from amazon cost $299.00

Brook Gerard moved to purchase the speaker system and the walkie-talkie 6 pack in the total amount of $2100.00. Sandy Harshaw-Irwin seconded the motion. All were in favor. MOTION CARRIED.

For the Good of Order

Big Sky Explorers: Members earn raffle tickets for completing project book sections at the meeting with a drawing at the end.

MT Sunsets: New members are being given breaks during the meeting to break things up and encourage engagement.   

Ulm Pishkun: Went to local nursing homes and delivered goodie bags and sang carols.

Creative Clovers: Have been working on project books as a group.

Sunny Spirits: Have been doing activities as a group like a dice game, timed gingerbread house competition with older kids helping younger kids and guest speakers or demonstrations at every meeting.

Chesnutt Valley: Made and decorated cookies as a club and did demonstrations.

MSDB: Gave information on a rec lab in Idaho – Catco Lab. Ages 8+ and held at a Methodist church including leadership camp, arts, crafts, and much more.

Adjournment

Meeting was adjourned at 7:35 pm. Samaria motioned, Sandy seconded, all in favor – Motion carried***

 

Next Meeting will be held on March 11, 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 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 4^th 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 2^nd, 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 4^th 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. 29^th 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. 30^th 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 19^th @ 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 2^nd 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