Lusk - The Niobrara County 4-H Council met at 5 p.m. on March 20 for their regular meeting at the Niobrara Extension Office. Under items of discussion the council reviewed their donation of a tree or shrub in memory of Mr. Baker. They agreed on an amount up to $100 to go towards a tree or shrub of his family’s choosing.

The council will advertise again in the Chamber of Commerce directory with Ms. Chichester approving the ad. They will also be in the2019 Niobrara County Fair Book with a $10 sponsorship listing.

Discussion regarding the shooting sports club in the State 4-H Foundation endowment fund was held. It was determined that the shooting sports leaders may determine the funds necessary for annual operation and then council authorized them to deposit the remainder of the funds in the state foundation fund. Per issued guidelines from the state no club may have an interest bearing account. This means the foundation fund is the best way to steward amounts of money accumulated beyond those necessary for standard operating of a club. The money is available for withdrawal at any time for large expenses or special projects.

Old business included discussion regarding the completing of record books. Chichester reminded the council that books must receive a red or better for premiums to be paid.

New business began with discussion regarding a $200 allocation of funds for presentor thank you gifts for individuals that provide the educational opportunities through our County for 4-H members and leaders. Council approved this allocation to be used at Chichester’s discretion. If leaders need to renew their leadership qualifications or are in their first year and need to qualify they may use both the online training series or the Show-Rite clinic in Wheatland on April 27 to qualify. A reminder however, that if a leader is a first year they must still complete an orientation course. Chichester requested that council members remind all leaders that the leaders, not just members, sign a code of conduct and it is important to adhere to that code of conduct. She also requested that all clubs review the budgeting and financial policies to ensure compliance. The council approved a $200 budget for all leaders for National Volunteer Week appreciation coupons. All leaders will receive a certificate of appreciation and a coupon for $2 or $3 off an item at Rough and Refined. Chichester reviewed the FitEx Program parameters with the council. This program is open to anyone (not just 4-H members and leader). More information can be obtained by contacting the Extension office. The Head to Clearer Thinking and Hands to Larger Service award program issued by the state will award up to five clubs for their community-based projects. These project summaries and pictures can be uploaded to the Wyoming FB page. The contest runs October 1, 2018 to September 20, 2019 so any activities that were done within that time frame qualify. All clubs are encouraged to submit projects.

Discussion was held surround the electricity shortage problems during county fair in the barns. The Fair Board has considered multiple options all of which are too costly at this time. The 4-H Council would like to move forward with collecting information about temporary solutions to this problem including the possibility of propane fueled generators. Chichester and Ms. Miller will contact various businesses to collect information.

Chichester reported that she has been an ambassador to multiple community groups in the last few months including a successful meeting with the school board in which she gave information regarding both enrollment information and participation to the school board and the different options the Extension office is considering for activities on Fridays in the 2019-2020 school year.

The next council meeting will be held in April. Meeting adjourned at 6:15 p.m.