Horse Leaders Meeting Agenda & Minutes

CALL to ORDER

MINUTES:

TREASURER:

CORRESPONDANCE:

REPORTS:

• February Project Day
• Agent

OLD BUSINESS:

•  

NEW BUSINESS:

• Other business

Next meeting: 

April 7, 2026

Upcoming Events

• March14 Project Day

Call to Order

Attendees:Brook Gerard (online),Ginger Murphy, Haylea Grimshaw, Jenn Volkmar, Katrina Emrich, Alivia Emrich, Laren Steichen, Rachel Grimshaw, Wendy Newman (online), Meghan Johnson (online), Cole Doughty, Meghan Johnson (online), Marie Powell (online), Lisa Jassen (online)

Ginger called the meeting to order at 5:30 PM

Pledges

Minutes:

Wendy made a motion to approve theJanuary minutes,and Brook seconded

Treasurer’s Report:

Checking: $13,441.96/ Savings: $25.00 / CD: $10,880.62 / Money Market: $2.56 / Total Assets: $24,350.14

Correspondence:

None

Agent’s Report:

Jennprovided the following updates –

• February 9 Junior Director Applications due
• February 10 Cascade County 4-H Foundation Meeting
• February 14 Project Day
• February 16 office closed Presidents’ Day
• February 24 Camp planning meeting
• March 14 Communication contest
• Each committee has a folder in the office for COI’s and incidents that need to be events. If there is an accident, two people need to fill out incident report. There has been a delay in MSU turning aroundCOI’sso request them at least three days in advance.
• Scholarships – open for seniors
• Shooting sports committee – raffle tickets available for gun raffle
• Fair planning meetings starting soon

Event Reports:

• January Project Day & Eagle Mount – Katrina & Laura
  • Hippology project day went well, although it was too advanced for some of the younger members
  • Did a tour of Eagle Mount after project day for a behind the scenes view

Old Business:

• February 14^thProject Day – Trail Riding/Packing with Backcountry Horseman (Marie Powell organizing)
• March 14^thProject Day–Arena Etiquette& Patterns (Katrina & Megan organizing)
• April 11^thProject DayIdeas – Hippology Contest/Horse Judging or Showmanship on the ground
• Horse Program Sponsorship - letter sent out last week
• Clinic Suggestions
  • When: Evening of June 19^th or June 20^th
  • Where: Newmans Stables
  • Who: Rachel to reach out to Alyssa to see if she would be interested in putting together a clinic on trail&Showmanship
• County Horse Show
  • August 8-9 at 406 Arena (Horse show on the 8^th and Working Ranch Horse Show on the 9^th)
  • Ginger checking with Faith Stevenson to see if she would be willing to judge
  • Ginger checking with Morgan Merja Lanham to see if she has interest in judging trail

 

 

• Horse Camp
  • Sandy is 90% sure she can take care of the food
    • Friday:pulled pork or chicken
    • Saturday: Breakfast burritos
    • Saturday Lunch: brats, beans, pasta salad, chips, veggie tray
  • Theme: Wild, Wild West
  • Group Names: Outlaws, Bandits, Cow Pokes
  • Agenda Ideas:
    • Friday
      • Rachel to reach out to Alyssa to see if she would be willing to take pictures again
      • Speaker – Dr. Wiley horse chiropractor (confirmed)
      • Organized games or Escape Room (check with Marie Powell)
    • Saturday Morning
      • Bareback or beingIntune with yourhorse (Check with Sue Thompson & Marie Powell), ground poles (Check with Lisa & Vickie), horse safety, horsemanship,patterns
    • Saturday Afternoon
      • Trail (check with Matt Rains), Critical maneuvers (pivots, side passes, leg pressure), flag work (Regan or Coleman), high line, outdoor obstacles, Brook to talk to Rubie to see if she has any ideas, Ginger to talk to Kelly Rohloff to see if she has ideas
    • Craft – Wanted Poster or leather craft (Jeff at Grizzy saddlery – cowboy hat, boots) or Sadie (Brook’s contact)

New Business:

None

Upcoming Events:

• February 14 Project Day
• March 3 Horse Leaders Meeting
• March 14 Project Day
• April 7 Horse Leaders Meeting
• April 11 Project Day

Save the Date:

• May 1-2 Horse Camp
• August 8-9 County Horse Shows
• Feb 21, March 21, April 18 NCHSA Ranch Horse Shows
• June 12-13, July 10-12, August 14-15 406 Arena Show

Adjournment:

Rachelmade a motion to adjourn the meetingat 6:47 PM andLaura seconded

 

Respectfully submitted,

Rachel Grimshaw - Secretary

Call to Order

Attendees:  Ginger Murphy, Wendy Newman, Laura Steichen, Katrina Emrich, Brook Gerard, Meghan Johnson(online), Brenda Canine(online)

Ginger called to order at 5:35pm

Pledges

Minutes:

Katrina made the motion and Laura seconded to approve the minutes from November, 2025.  Motion carried.

Treasurer’s Report:

$13,652.71 in Checking, $25.00 in Savings, $2.56 in Money Market, $10,880.62 in the CD. Total assets: $24,535.89

Correspondence:

Thank you note from Eagle Mount for the donation and a brochure from the MT Horse Sanctuary about their program.

Agent Report: 

Jenn provided the following:

*Club leaders are now able to see medical waivers on Z Suites when they are conducting events.  Jody will send a “how to” so that they know how to access it. 

*January project day will feature Farmers Union partnering to educate on a variety of classes, CPR, Maggie activities.  They are excited to partner with 4-H.

*Teen night will be January 16^th, all the members over 13 are eligible to attend, it will be at the extension office.

*Camp registration is coming soon; neighboring counties are eligible to attend and be counselors.

*There will be Maggie activities the end of January for 4-H members in the livestock and horse projects. 

*For leaders and volunteers, you must pay your dues before you will be moved to “active” status in Z Suites.

*North 40 has discounts for horse, livestock, and all animal projects.  Western Feed Corral has discounts for the 4-H animal projects as well.

Old Business:

Project Day schedule

January:  Laura & Brook doing Hippology.  Eagle Mount Tour from 12:30-2:00pm

February:  Working with Grizzly Saddlery to present

March:  Discussed ideas, packing, PEMF, Dr Wiley, Morgan Berg

April:  Possible contest discussed

New Business:

*Website for judging that was originally to be shared with livestock.  There is confusion as to the subscription and who was to pay for it.  There was a nonrenewal for 2025.  Livestock is wanting to switch to a different program and the horse judging team did not use it at all.  Wendy moved and Katrina second the motion to not renew and not participate in the livestock one as it was not used.  Motion carried.

*Sponsorship letters for 2026, there are some edits being made, the lower rate sponsorship level will be increased to $50.  Once the edits are complete the letter is ready to be sent to potential sponsors.  The group did go through the list of the previous sponsors and decided to divide and them so that all could be sent out. 

*Discussion held about the 2026 County Show and Ranch Horse Show dates.  It was decided to keep the show at the 406 Arena with the date of August 8-9 as the first option.  If that one is not available then check for the date of August 1-2, 2026.

*Ideas for judges were discussed.  More decisions next month can be made once we know the date.  It was discussed that Kelli Rohloff might be a good trail judge.  Other judge names were Greg Brensdal, Faith Stevenson and Jan Larsen.  If any member has names please text them to Ginger.

*The group is wanting to host a clinic in 2026. It was discussed that Alyssa Harris is willing to conduct one.  Members should come with ideas of dates, content and other names if desired.  Bring them to the meeting in February.

* Horse Camp is May 1-2, and possibly the 3^rd.  The theme, classes and planning will be conducted at the February meeting.  Come with your ideas!  Camp will again happen at the 406 Arena.

Adjournment

Meeting was moved for adjournment by Wendy and second by Katrina at 6:45pm.

 

Respectfully submitted by acting secretary,

Wendy Newman  

Call to Order

Attendees: Brook Gerard, Gabrielle Corscadden, Ginger Murphy, Haylea Grimshaw, Jenn Volkmar, Katrina Emrich, Laren Steichen, Marie Powell (online), Rachel Grimshaw

Ginger called the meeting to order at 5:32 PM

Pledges

Minutes:

Brook made a motion to approve the October minutes, and Katrina seconded

Treasurer’s Report:

Checking: $13,831.65 / Savings: $25.00 / CD: $10,880.62 / Money Market: $2.56 / Total Assets: $24,739.83

Correspondence:

None

Agent’s Report:

Jenn provided the following updates –

• First Project Day: Saturday, November 8^th
• Fall Conference: Ambassadors attending conference in Butte this weekend
• Ambassador’s Countywide Dance: Scheduled for November 23^rd
• Office Reminders:
  • Ensure correct years and levels are entered on registrations
  • Submit contact information for executive boards and leaders to the Extension Office
• Reporting: Agent currently working on year-end and state reporting.
• Clover Connection: Being distributed through ZSuite to allow usage tracking

Event Reports:

• Achievement Night – Backordered awards have been delivered.
• Horsey Halloween
  • Attendance: twenty-two kids (including siblings and drop-ins)
  • Activities were split into two arenas by ability
  • Next year: Consider turning into a fundraiser and inviting neighboring counties or outside 4-H participants (will need to review insurance liability)

Old Business:

• November 8^th Project Day – Equine First Aid
  • Miya with South Peak Vet Services to speak
  • Haylea will introduce Miya
  • Ginger will bring snacks
• December 13^th Project Day – Jeopardy, Ornament, Treat
  • Ginger & Laura will be gone
  • Haylea has horseshoes and will work on ornament ideas
  • Brook to get Jeopardy game from Vicki
  • Ginger to make cupcakes and have in extension office freezer
• January 10^th Project Day – Intro to Hippology / Horse Kit
  • Brook – Horse Kit
  • Laura – Intro to Hippology
  • Followed by Eagle Mount Tour from 12:30 – 2:00
• February 14^th Project Day – Tack cleaning & Tack Parts
  • Kids bring in a saddle or bridle
  • Leaders to purchase supplies
  • Ginger will reach out to Grizzly Saddlery to see if they will come in and talk about saddle parts
• March 14^th Project Day – TBD
  • Ideas
    • Patterns
    • Bits & Bridles
    • Horse Treatments - PEMF, massage
    • Packing (Kevin US Forrest Service, Back Country Horseman, Marie Powell)
  • April 11^th Project Day – Hippology Contest with Brook & Laura
    • Dependent on Brook’s schedule
  • MBHA Safety Follow Up
    • Ginger reached out to Julie Jo regarding in-gate safety, Julie Jo responded and offered to hire others just for the gate
    • October 2-4, 2026

 

• Horse Camp – Craft idea – leather craft with Sadie Skelton
  • Brook to contact Sadie

New Business:

• Bylaws Review Committee
  • Lisa, Rachel, Ginger, Wendy, & Katrina met to review bylaws
  • Brook provided an overview of the proposed changes which include revising the election period for officers and breaking out Secretary and Treasurer duties
  • Rachel made a motion to approve revised bylaws and Laura seconded
• Budget Committee
  • Lisa, Rachel, Ginger, Wendy, & Katrina met to review the fiscal year 2026 Budget
  • Rachel provided an overview of the proposed Budget
  • Brook made a motion to approve the fiscal year 2026 Budget and Katrina seconded
• Enrollment Roster Review
  • Leaders reviewed horse project enrollment lists
• 406 Arena Tack Swap
  • Saturday, November 22^nd 9:00-12:00 at 406 Arena
  • Free event, contact Jessica at the 406 Arena to sell
  • Ginger will have a table, if anyone has a couple of items they would like to sell
• Sponsorship Opportunities
  • Jenn to share last year’s sponsors list
  • Group to review sponsorship letter
  • Send letters out hand addressed or in-person
• Packing
  • Back Country Horseman willing to host monthly training sessions
  • Possible tie-in with Outdoor Adventure Project
  • Marie to draft letter to 4-H members
• Horse Camp
  • Tentative Dates: May 1 -3
  • Ginger to confirm availability with Jessica at the 406 Arena

Upcoming Events:

• November 8: Project Day
• December 7: Mountain View Tack Christmas Party (Fairfield)
• December 13: Project Day
• January 6^th: Horse Leaders Meeting (no meeting in December)
• January 10: Project Day + Eagle Mount Tour/Presentation

Adjournment:

Brook made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 6:30 PM and Katrina seconded

 

Respectfully submitted,

Rachel Grimshaw - Secretary

Call to Order

Attendees: Bill Ogg, Brook Gerard, Ginger Murphy, Haylea Grimshaw, Jenn Volkmar, Katrina Emrich, Laren Steichen, Rachel Grimshaw, Wendy Newman

Ginger called the meeting to order at 5:35 PM

Pledges

Minutes:

Brook made a motion to approve the September minutes, and Katrina seconded

Treasurer’s Report:

Checking: $11,755.73 / Savings: $25.00 / CD: $10,356.58 / Money Market: $2.56 / Total Assets: $22,139.87

Correspondence:

Received thank-you notes from:

• Josey Woodring, Greta Graft, and Adison Powell for sponsoring the State Working Ranch Horse Show.
• Montana State Horse Committee for event sponsorship.

Agent’s Report:

Jenn provided the following updates –

• New 4-H Year: Began October 1st.
• Reminder to use the ZSuites Sign-Up Tutorial.
• Executive Board members must register as Organizational Leaders.
• National 4-H Week: Currently ongoing. The historical bridge should be lit green in recognition.
• Achievement Night: Scheduled for Sunday at 4:30 PM at the Family Living Center.
• John Davis's daughter will attend to present the annual John Davis Award.
• Holiday: October 13th – Office closed, though agents will be working.
• Agent Schedules: October 20–24 – Agents out of the office; Jody will be available.

Event Reports:

• State Horse Shows were a success; thank-you notes will be sent
• MBHA Event:
  • Schedule was full; however, two volunteers were no-shows and only 16 4-H horse youth participated.
  • Safety issues at the in-gate discussed. Ginger will contact Juli Jo Kelly to relay concerns.
  • Event to become a mandatory requirement for all enrolled horse project members going forward.
  • Volunteer Recognition Drawing: Winners receive $25 credit toward 4-H Horse Camp or a Cascade County 4-H Horse Show. Winners: Abby Farris, Nate Farris, Elle Patterson, Haylea Grimshaw, Bristol Bush, Aleeyah Webber

Old Business:

• Eagle Mount Tour/Presentation:
  • Donation check sent.
  • Morgan King prefers to schedule after the new year
  • Planned for January 10th, 12:30–2:00 PM, following project day.
• Board Positions:
  • Wendy accepted nomination to continue as Vice President.
  • Motion by Brook, seconded by Katrina; motion carried.
• Year-End Awards: To be presented at Achievement Night on Sunday.
• Rulebook Changes:
  • Brook discussed changes; motion to approve by Laura, seconded by Wendy; motion passed.
  • See attached rulebook changes.
• Horsey Halloween:
  • Date/Time: November 2nd, 2:00–5:00 PM at the Livestock Pavilion.
  • Fee: $10 per participant; families asked to bring an appetizer or treat.
  • Facility Rental: $200
  • Event Activities:
    • Brook – Bobbing for donuts
    • Katrina – Toilet paper race
    • Ginger – Will ask Cheryl Seal to judge costume contest and organize prizes/certificates
    • Haylea – General assistance
  • Ginger will send event info to Jenn to create a ZSuites signup.

New Business:

• Project Days
  • November 8^th – Basic first aid for horses (Rachel to reach out to Kelly Kolar) or Trotty by Nature rescue (Rachel to reach out to Kimber/Tanya)
  • December 13^th – Jeopardy game, ornament, treat (followed by Eagle Mount tour/presentation)
  • January 10^th - Intro to Hippology & Horse Kit with Laura & Brook
  • February, March, April – TBD (ideas include saddle fitting with Grizzley Saddlery, saddle parts)
• Colt to Maturity Project Completion
  • Shaelyn, Reagan, and Leann submitted completed project books
  • Katrina made a motion to award Shaelyn, Raegan, & Leann $150 each toward a custom prize of their choice, and Wendy seconded. Expense requests completed.
• Bylaws and Budget Review Committee
  • Members: Lisa, Rachel, Ginger, Wendy, Katrina, and Laura.
  • Ginger to organize a group chat to align on a meeting day/time.

Upcoming Events:

• November 2^: Horsey Halloween
• November 8: Project Day
• December 13: Project Day
• January 10: Project Day + Eagle Mount Tour/Presentation

Adjournment:

Wendy made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 6:48 PM and Katrina seconded

 

Respectfully submitted,

Rachel Grimshaw - Secretary

Call to Order

Attendees: In Person - Brook Gerard, Ginger Murphy, Katrina Emrich, Haylea Grimshaw, Rachel Grimshaw, Jenn Volkmar; Webex -
Wendy Newman, Brenda Canine, & Lisa Jassen
Called to Order: Ginger called the meeting to order at 5:30 PM

Pledges

Minutes:

Brook made a motion to approve the June minutes, and Katrina seconded

Treasurer’s Report:

Checking: $13,265.56 / Savings: $25.00 / CD: $10,356.58 / Money Market: $2.56 / Total Assets: $23,649.70
We had additional sponsorships this year – Cassie DeShaw was able to get some additional funds to ensure we had more buckles to
give away at the County show. The Grimshaw and Murphy families donated horse show prizes.

Correspondence:

A thank you note was received from Kandy Chartier for the $150 Colt to Maturity project award. Montana 4H
Foundation sent a thank you note for the $500 State Horse Show donation.

Agent’s Report:

Jenn provided the following updates –

• Record books are being turned into the office
• October 1st - New 4-H year
• September 21st - Leaders Appreciation, ambassadors will be sending out invitations
• October 12 – Achievement Night
• The Green Clover Raffle raised over $4,000
• State Fair entries - Galloping Guns had the most static entries, Big Sky Explorers highest member participation
• The monthly newsletter will have a spotlight section for members and projects

Event Reports:

• Carlone Hudon Clinic – Haylea provided a brief update on the clinic (focused on colts). Caroline refused payment.
• County Horse Show - 31 participated on forty horses, and there were 215 class entries. We collected approximately $40 in donations for Eagle Mount. Brook made a motion to add additional funds to get the total donation to $150, Katrina seconded.
  Brook will fill out an expense form. Ginger suggested we do a project day/service project at the Eagle Mount horse facility and present the donation at that time. Wendy is going to reach out to Morgan at Eagle Mount to see if they would be willing to host on a Saturday in October or November.
• County Ranch Horse Show – judges were able to move things along, twenty-four participates on twenty-seven horses, and
  there were 189 class entries.
• Ginger provided an overview of the Executive Committee meetings that occurred during the two county shows:
  
  • July 23, 2025, email request from Lilly Grieve to use another horse for the CC 4-H Horse Show. She requested a horse owned by Alyssa Harris. This horse was not in Lilly’s possession or care and was being shown by another 4-H member. She states her green horse is not ready to be shown and behind on vaccines. On July 27, the Executive committee encouraged Lilly to bring her green horse for Showmanship and exposure, denied use of other horse.
  • August 1, 2025, verbal request from Addison Powell to change horses for the CC Ranch Horse Show after her horse was deemed unsound by the judge. Initial request was to use Nevaar, a vaulting horse that she has ridden for vaulting. Use of other horses was also requested. Executive Committee met and agreed Addison could use Nevaar for the Ranch Horse Show as she had been riding/using said horse regularly.
  • August 1, 2025, A High Point buckle was mistakenly awarded to non-Cascade County rider. The Executive
    Committee met & deemed we cannot take an award away. Cascade County Horse Leaders will order another buckle for the appropriate Cascade County 4-H recipient. Upon further review, the next in line has two riders tied. A buckle will be ordered for both and rule change will need to be considered this fall to break ties in tied high point situations.
  • August 2, 2025, During the County Ranch Horse Show, a suggestion was made that the CC 4-H Horse Leaders
    sponsor the Jackpot Roping to be held at the end of the day. The Executive committee met and agreed Horse
    Leaders could sponsor the first and second place payout with a total of $120 to be paid. Checks written at the
    conclusion of the Jackpot Roping.
• State Horse Show - Jenn said that there will be another State meeting later in the week. The State will be ordering food;
  Cascade County Horse leaders will not be involved. Jenn will ask when patterns will be released.

Old Business:

• The Stockman Bank CD was renewed for 11 months at 4.46%

New Business:

• Year End Point Review – Several kids that consistently win awards at the County and State horse shows do not complete
  record books. Ginger would like to consider changing the rules so that record books are completed ahead of the County Show. Jenn will check with the other county agents to see if any have record book requirements for year-end awards. Katrina suggested that we follow the 60% rule that livestock follows. The extension office will send out a notice that horse rulebook changes are due by September 22nd. Wendy will host a meeting at her house on September 22nd at 6:30 to discuss rule changes. Brook, Katrina, Rachel, Haylea, Ginger and Kinsley plan on attending. We also need to discuss the appropriate way to handle ties. There is currently a tie for year-end high point. Brook made a motion to purchase an additional buckle for year end high point award, Katrina seconded.
• MBHA Finals October 3-5
  
  • To encourage youth member participation in the MBHA finals (placing barrels), Brook made a motion for the Horse Leaders to give away $150 to those that volunteer (horse leaders will determine how to assign the funds at a later date), Katrina seconded.
• Nominations - Katrina nominated Wendy as Vice President, vote will occur at the October meeting.
• Horsey Halloween – November 2nd 2:00 – 5:00. Jenn will send Susan a request for the Fairgrounds (rental 1:00-5:00)
• Monthly Horse Leaders meetings will continue to be the second Tuesday of the month at 5:30 PM
• Project Days – each horse leader to oversee a project day. Haylea and Kinzley will reach out to other kids for ideas. The
  Hippology team will work on ideas for crafts for the December project day and horse camp (current ideas - key chains,
  standing saddle racks, boot jacks - plan for thirty kids). Brook suggested a Rocking the Record Book contest – a monthly
  check, for points offered, to have a time to help all kids with record books. Jenn said that there is no space, and we would
  have to keep it within horse time (cannot have two spaces). It was suggested the last 15 minutes of each project day be used
  for record book help. Project Days will be November – April from 10:30 – 12:00.
• Brook suggested that we have a Hippology Contest – March or April and include Region 2 & 3

Upcoming Events:

• September 12-14 - Montana Working Ranch Horse Finals
• September 26-28 - Montana State Horse Show
• October 3-5 - MBHA (4-H Horse Volunteers needed)

Adjournment:

Katrina made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 6:54 PM and Rachel seconded

Respectfully submitted,
Rachel Grimshaw - Secretary

Called to Order:

Attendees: In Person - Brook Gerard, Ginger Murphy, Katrina Emrich, Laura Steichen, Leann Murphy, Rachel Grimshaw, Jenn Volkmar, Cassie DeShaw, Joslin DeShaw, Samira Kirby    WebEx - Wendy Newman, Shaelyn Berner

Ginger called the meeting to order at 5:32 PM

Pledges

 

Minutes:

Brook made a motion to approve the May minutes and Katrina seconded

Treasurer’s Report:

Checking: $11,125.00 / Savings: $25.00 / CD: $10,356.58 / Money Market: $2.56 / Total Assets: $21,509.14

Stockman Bank CD matures on June 15, 2025. Brook made a motion to allow the signing committee to make the decision to reinvest in another CD after June 15^th and Katrina seconded.

Correspondence:

A postcard was received from the Montana 4-H Foundation requesting donations for the State Horse Show. Wendy made a motion to donate $250 to the State Horse Show and $250 to the State Working Ranch Horse show, Katrina seconded. An expenditure report will need to be completed for the checks to be issued.

Agent’s Report:

Jenn provided the following updates -

• State Horse Show: The rule book with be the same as 2024. There will be a new logo this year. The State is currently looking for judges.
• Currently focused on camp planning & prep (June 8-11)
• Fair Planning (July 25 – August 2)
  • July 24^th static judging
  • July 22-24 booth setup
  • August 3 booth take down
  • Premium book hasn’t been released yet
• Livestock leaders are busy planning the livestock show
• Leaders’ Council continues to sell raffle tickets
• County Commission currently having budget discussions – budget cuts are expected. MSU will be meeting with the Commissioner on June 13^th. Brook asked Jenn to send the leaders a letter explaining what happens at the meeting. Jenn mentioned that the City of Great Falls and Great Falls Public schools pay the rent for the extension office and there is a possibility that budget cuts could mean be moved from this space.
• Samira Kirby, representing the Trouble Shooters Club and Leaders Council (Vice President), spoke about the Dairy booth
  • Leaders’ Council operating policy says that each club is required to work a shift
  • Minimum age is 11, 3 adults and 4-7 members must be present for each shift
  • Sign up will be on Signup Genius
  • Profits from the dairy booth are used for scholarships, record books, camp, project days, and statewide events
  • Discount gate admission tickets are available at the extension office

Old Business:

2025 Clinic: Four kids currently signed up, registration closes next week. Leann will put a FB image together and provide a JPEG to Jenn to post on the Facebook page. Ideas for Facebook page posts: registration reminder, reminder the day before registration is due, and a reminder the day before the event. Wendy made a motion to revise previously approved payment - If we don’t meet the $500 in registration fees, we will do a 70/30 split between Caroline and the facility, Katrina seconded. Ginger will reach out if there is a possibility for a Leader’s Clinic.

County Show:Registration will be opened to all Central Region Counties. After Brook meets with Jody, registration can be pushed out as it is ready. Brook will try and schedule something with Jody next week. Included in the registration will be a list of volunteer opportunities as well as a section to donate to Eagle Mount. Supplies needed include back numbers, table clothes for awards table, safety pins, walkie talkie batteries. Leann and Reagan have patterns ready to go, however, a trail pattern needs to be created.  Leann will reach out to Hailee Tompers to see if she is interested in being a scribe.

Horse ID Cards & Assessments are still being accepted. Another post and/or email will be made and will reach out to families as needed. Assessments for Working Ranch Horse are due July 1^st and Colt to Maturity Assessments are due August 1^st.

New Business:

Summer Practices – Lots of people reaching out and asking questions. Waiting for response from King’s arena to see if we can do Monday’s or Thursdays with drop in rate. Potentially doing some of those nights as WRH practices. Would like to start mid-June. Will try to get some outside instructors to help.

Brook went to Choteau County to teach at their demo day and took the horse kit. Brook asked if we can invite other counties to our project days – Jenn thinks so but will look into it.

Upcoming Events:

• June 7 GFAB Dressage Show
• June 13-14 406 Arena Schooling Show
• June 21 Show Prep Clinic
• June 26 GFAB Hunter Jumper SHow
• August 1 County 4-H Horse Show
• August 2 County 4-H Working Ranch Horse Show

Adjournment:

Rachel made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 6:37 PM and Brook seconded

 

Respectfully submitted,

Rachel Grimshaw - Secretary

Called to Order: 

Ginger called the meeting to order at 5:32 PM

Attendees:

Brook Gerard, Ginger Murphy, Katrina Emrich, Laura Steichen, Rachel Grimshaw, Jenn Volkmar, Cassie DeShaw

Pledges

Minutes:

Brook made a motion to approve the April minutes and Katrina seconded

Treasurer’s Report:

Checking: $13,318.14 / Savings: $25.00 / CD: $10,356.58 / Money Market: $2.56 / Total Assets: $23,702.28

$500 in grant money was received from the Charlie Russell Backcountry Horseman group via Kelly Rohloff

Agent’s Report:

Jenn provided the following updates -

• The extension office is busy with stir ups, fashion review, livestock planning, camp (June 8-11), and fair planning
• Three 4-H Foundation scholarships were awarded in Cascade County
• The next Leaders’ council meeting is next week, please attend if you can
• The State 4H center is moving for the summer

Correspondence:

A card was received from Gretta Graft thanking the horse leaders for Horse Camp

Event Reports:

Brook reported that the April 12^th Project Day was a success. Paul Johnson did a presentation on brands and then had the kids’ brand boards.

Ginger reported on Horse Camp – 36 kids participated. Based on feedback, the bareback class was the favorite event. It was suggested that the check-in time be moved back next year, so kids don’t miss school or possibly move to Saturday/Sunday.

Old Business:

2025 Clinic: Caroline Hudon will put on a clinic on June 21^st. She would like small groups by similar abilities/levels. The focus will be on patterns, and she would also like to have some yearling classes. She suggested 15-minute breaks between sessions so that she can formulate plans for those that need more help. She would like to donate her time, but the group thinks she should be given some sort of compensation. Ginger will reach out to Lisa to see if her kids are participating and if she would agree to have the clinic at her ranch. Katrina made a motion to charge $25/kid plus $15 per additional horse and Laura seconded. One of the horse leaders will get lunch for Caroline and the kids should bring their own lunch. Brook made a motion that we pay Caroline $350 and donate the remaining amount to facilities, Cassie seconded. Sign up will be on Z-Suites and Ginger will send info to Jody. Jenn will get the Certificate of Insurance.

State Horse Updates: Some subcommittees have met. Sponsorship information has been published and sent out.

County Show Details: Brook suggest we open registration to the Central Region of the State. On the signup sheet, we will list jobs and request volunteers. Entry format – options that we have access to Fair Entry, Cognito, and paper. Z-suites doesn’t work well for horse shows. Brook suggested that we build in Cognito and then show Jody and Jenn. Ginger asked Jenn if we could move forward with Cognito and Jenn said to check with Jody to see if she is comfortable. Registration funds will cover prizes. Make sure that the entry form states that only Cascade County kids are eligible for high points. Cassie suggested that next year we consider rebranding it as the Central Region Horse Show, have the other counties pitch in and contribute to the prize fund. Jenn will send a message to all the agents to see if they want to contribute and a save the date.

Eagle Mount: We missed adding a donation section to the camp registration but will add to County Show registration form.

New Business:

Summer Practices: Ginger reached out to Lisa to see if she would be willing to have ranch horse practice, haven’t heard back yet (June last year) – will discuss more at the June meeting

Last year we had practices at the Kings in July. Worked on patterns, showmanship, English, etc. Brook has horseless horse kids on, Mondays. July 7, 14, 21 – will discuss more at the June meeting

Horse ID and assessments – due June 1^st. Next year we would like to have assessments available at horse camp. Ginger to provide Jody/Jenn with info for communication.

Adjournment:

Rachel made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 6:55 PM and Katrina seconded

 

Respectfully submitted,

Rachel Grimshaw - Secretary

Called to Order:

Attendees:

Brook Gerard, Ginger Murphy, Haylea Grimshaw, Katrina Emrich, Laura Steichen,Leann Murphy, Wendy Newman, Jenn Volkmar, Cassie DeShaw, Lisa Jassen, Rachel Grimshaw

 

Ginger called the meeting to order at 5:32 PM

 

Pledges

 

Minutes:

Brook requested a revision to the March 4^th minutes as follows:  New Business – Additional items discussed – revise “Ginger and Lisa will handle registration” to “Ginger and Lisa will build registration in Cognito forms”.Brook made a motion to approve the March minutes with the correction and Katrina seconded.

Treasurer’s Report:

Checking: $11,932.18 / Savings: $25.00 / CD: $10,356.58 / Money Market: $2.56 / Total Assets: $22,316.32

Agent’s Report:

Jennprovided the following updates -

• Rec lab was last weekend in White Sulphur, two members and one chaperone attended
• April 12^th is Project Day& the Communication Contest
• Shooting sports doing a fundraiser
• Camp registration opened today
• Leaders’ council in the middle of planning raffle baskets
• Fair planning met earlier this evening and are currently working on contracts
• Extension duties for Jenn – SCCLA judging in Bozeman, continuation of contracts and COI’s
• The extension office is down to one copier so large printing jobs need to be outsourced

Correspondence:

None

Event Reports:

Brook reported that the March8^thproject day was a success. The kids went through horse kit stations and played Jeopardy.

Old Business:

Education/Project Days and activity planning

• April 12^th – Brands presented by Paul Johnson

Clinics

• June 21^st- Caroline Hudon Clinic with the primary focus on leads and transitions
• No plans for a Working Ranch Horse clinic as neither Curt Pate or Scott Grosskopf are available

State Horse Show

• Lisa informed the group that the State had a meeting the day before. Riley Larson & Kelly Katoney will be co-chairing the event. It will take place at the 406 Arena and the contracts are complete. A subcommittee will be formed. The next meeting will be held on April 28^th

Horse Camp

• All instructors have been secured, Amber Wagnor and Shelia Smart will be coming from out of town, and as per the motion made at the March 4^th meeting, hotel rooms have been booked (Market Place Comfort Inn - $104/night)
• Brook made a motion and Lisa seconded, to pay the instructors a total of$850 as follows:
  • Amber Wagnor $300
  • Sheila Smart $300
  • Kelli Rohloff $150
  • Sue Thompson $50
  • Yellow Rose Healing $25
  • Ruby Hoernlen $25
• Rachel & Haylea will put together check-in bags and will include T-Shirts, name tags, personalized registration, water, and snacks(assume 45)
• Brook will put together a bingo card & Wendy will get a prize
• Linda Cederhome, Meghan Johnson’s mom, is making pillowcases for the kids
• Lisa & Ginger have camp registration ready to go in Cognito, however, Jenn requested that ZSuites be used instead. Jenn stated that she wasn’t comfortable with Cognito because she didn’t have access and wasn’t familiar with the program. Brook volunteered to do training with Jenn and Jody, and Jenn said that she would get back to Brook with a time for the next day. Ginger requested that Jenn get back to the executive board after training and provide a plan.

 

Sponsorship Review

• The group reviewed the list of sponsors, stuffed envelopes, and addressed letters to be mailed

New Business:

County Show items discussed -

• Scheduled for August 1^st& 2^nd
• Class list was reviewed
• Need to decide on which counties to include by next meeting
• Leann & Reagan working on patterns
• Wendy will scribe
• Ginger to reach out to Brooklyn Merja to see if she will also scribe
• Cassie will scribe for WRH
• Judges confirmed except for roping for the WRH
• Brook will announce

 

Wendy mentioned that Jenny Goldy, who lives in Oregon, will be in town Easter weekend and has a Circle Y saddle for sale - 14 inch. Front & Back cinch, breast collar $600

Adjournment:

Wendymade a motion to adjourn the meetingat 7:05 PM and Katrina seconded.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Rachel Grimshaw - Secretary

Call to Order: 

Attendees:

In person: Brook Gerard, Ginger Murphy, Haylea Grimshaw, Katrina Emrich, Laura Steichen, Rachel Grimshaw, Ruby Hoernlen Webex: Jenn Volkmar Phone: Marie Powell

Ginger called the meeting to order at 5:37 PM

Pledges

Minutes:

Brook made a motion to approve the February minutes and Katrina seconded

Treasurer’s Report:

Checking: $11,878.72 / Savings: $25.00 / CD: $10,356.58 / Money Market: $2.56 / Total Assets: $22,262.86

Agent’s Report:

Jenn, currently in Missoula with State 4-H, provided the following updates -

• March project day is Saturday, March 8^th and is an extended project day due to our countywide baby blank service project
• Communication practice will be held directly after the April project day
• Upcoming shooting sports meeting on Thursday, March 6^th
• The next Leaders’ Council meeting is March 11^th
• State Fair is scheduled for July 25^th – August 2At the next fair planning meeting the group will be reviewing program books & entries
• Recently received fee info from Camp Rotary (June 7-11). Junior leaders will be meeting again in two weeks for the second planning night
• Going forward, MSU is requiring that all contracts be sent to them for approval

Correspondence:

A thank you was received from Haylea Grimshaw for the financial support received from the Horse Leaders for the team to attend Nationals in Denver. A thank you was also received from the Montana 4H foundation for the $750 sponsorship that the Horse Leaders donated.

Event Reports:

Ginger reported that the February 8^th project day was a success with ten kids in attendance. Six speakers came and spoke about horse careers beyond 4-H.

 

Old Business:

Project Days:

• March 8^th – Horse Kit Stations & Jeopardy with Brook. The time has been changed from 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM to 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM
• April 12^th – Brands presented by Paul Johnson. Brook will reach out to Paul as a reminder

2025 Clinic Ideas:

• Caroline Hudon – Lisa reached out and Caroline is interested in doing a clinic in June. The focus will be show prep and will focus on patterns, positioning, leads, transitions, and showmanship. Ginger will confirm the date, and we will need to figure out the location. Caroline will likely charge a fee; someone will need to follow up.
• Curt Pate or Scott Grosskopf – Lisa to reach out to Teton county before reaching out to Curt and/or Scott

State Horse Updates: Teri Antilley is starting to focus on the horse show, and we should hear more soon.

Enrollment roster follow ups – Ginger reached out to parents on the horse project registrations that needed to be reviewed and all are being resolved.

New Business:

Horse Camp Planning (May 2-3)

The group put together a draft schedule as follows:

Friday

4:00 PM Trail Ride and Photos (Alyssa Harris, confirmed)

6:00 PM Dinner (Sandy Harshaw, confirmed)

6:30 – 7:30 PM Talk Session by Yellow Rose Healing (Laura confirmed)

8:00 – 10:00 PM Open riding and games

Saturday

7:30 AM Breakfast (Sandy Harshaw, confirmed)

8:00 AM Morning Sessions (Three rotating sessions split up by ability level)

Horsemanship (Amber Wagner confirmed, wants three morning rotations slots and one afternoon session)

Ground Poles (Sheila Smart, confirmed)

Etiquette

11:45 – 12:45 PM Lunch (Sandy Harshaw, confirmed)

1:00 PM Afternoon Sessions (Kids select, not split up by ability level)

• Dressage (Sheila Smart, confirmed)
• Flag (Lisa & Coleman, need to confirm Coleman)
• Intro to English (Wendy & Ginger, confirmed)
• Grooming & Show Prep (Sara Graft, confirmed)
• Desensitizing colts (Coleman, need to confirm)
• Lunge Line (Coleman, need to confirm)
• Dummy roping (Lisa, Regan, & Coleman, need to confirm Coleman)
• Bareback (Susan Thompson, confirmed - wants two afternoon classes split by age)
• Precision maneuvers (Sue Thompson, confirmed)
• Trail (extra cost, need to touch base with Jessica)

4:45 PM End of Day

Additional items discussed:

• John & Penny Uecker – Ginger reached out and is waiting to hear back
• Cheryl Seal, Jessica Fryberger, Marie Powell, Justin Warneke, & Becky Allen are not available
• Grant Smith – Equine Aliments – Laura to reach out for suggestions (med kit – trail ride, horse trailer, home)
• Game Ideas - Simon Says, red light – green light, Omoksee games
• Ruby Hoernlen – could do a session on horse harmony
• Driving – could reach out to Morgan or Kathy
• Brooke to reach out to Pepsi for a sponsorship
• Wendy talked to Eagle Mount – website has a list of needed items
• Need hotel rooms for out-of-town instructors
• Need to review the 406 Arena contract & send it to the State office
• Registration due April 14^th (Cascade County) Other Counties April 21^st
• Sara will do a craft
• Rachel & Haylea will put together the goodie bags
• Ginger & Lisa will handle registration

Katrina made a motion to approve the $150 for the craft and Brook seconded. Katrina made a motion to approve two hotel rooms for one night for Amber Wagnor and Shelia Smart and Laura seconded.

Other New Business:

Sponsorship Review: Send any suggestions on sponsors to Ginger & Lisa. Ruby suggested adding John & Darci Nelson.

County Shows – will discuss next month, please review the class list that was included in this month’s package before the next meeting. Leanne & Regan will work on patterns, judges confirmed, will need to get scribes, and start ordering prizes (Haylea & Ginger).

Adjournment:

Brooke made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:05 PM and Laura seconded.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Rachel Grimshaw - Secretary