Welcome Shelby Jones-Dozier

We are excited to announce Shelby Jones-Dozier as our new FCS Agent! We have asked Shelby to share a little about herself and what brought her to Teton County MSU Extension. You can read more about her on page 2. Welcome, Shelby! We are glad to have you on our team!

Project Drop/Add Deadline

Just a reminder, the last day to drop or add projects is April 15, 2023. Please double check your enrollment in Zsuite and make any necessary changes. Please call the Extension office if you have questions at 406-466-2491.

The Next 31

April 3

  • Swine possession date, Monday by 5:00 p.m., Extension office

April 15

  • Last day to drop or add a project.

April 17

  • Camp counselor meeting, Monday 6:30 p.m., Fairfield Public Library
  • Club dues and 1% payment deadline, Monday by 5:00 p.m., Extension office
  • Lamb and goat possession date, Monday by 5:00 p.m., Extension office

Introducing Shelby Jones-Dozier

I was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia.My education focused on life science, and my curiosity led me to obtain my PhD in Microbiology, from Georgia State University in downtown Atlanta.Valuing my role as a mother over research, I shifted my career focus to education and obtained my Montana teaching certificate credentials through Montana State University.My first teaching position was in Gardiner, Montana. When my family moved, I told them it was only for one year. Eight years later, after my daughter graduated from Gardiner in 2020, it was time to find a place to settle in to call home. My math teacher husband and I relocated to Heart Butte within the heart of Blackfeet Country, where we could both work as high school teachers.During this time, my mom moved to Choteau from Atlanta, and this led me to discover the Family and Consumer Science and 4-H Extension Agent position in Teton County.

Working with young people to foster positive growth has been one of my greatest joys.I am most looking forward to building strong relationships with the 4-H members and their families in Teton County and Montana.It is a gift to be a part of a young person’s life to watch their growth and development over time.What I value most about 4-H is the dedication to community through inclusion and belonging.In addition, I feel that the emphasis on personal growth and the discovery of passions allows each young person to better learn who they are as an individual.Finally, the sharing of knowledge gained in a supportive environment, that fosters the development of communication skills, blend to raise strong children who are prepared to face the future in a positive way.

-Shelby Jones-Dozier

Teton Treasures

As you well know, 4-H members, parents, and volunteers are out there doing great work every day. Sometimes we (the Extension team) get to witness it, sometimes we hear about it, and sometimes we don't ever know about it.But we'd like to make a point of expressing our admiration and appreciation for these community treasures whenever we can.This month I'd like to highlight Heidi Konen's work on the Teton County Communications Day.She took the lead on planning this great event, which was a meaningful learning experience for 4-H members and an enjoyable and inspirational afternoon for the audience. I also want to add a big thank you to Jane Wolery, who agreed to emcee the event when I could not attend.To both - we treasure you!

-Jenn Swanson

Camp Counselor Meeting

The first camp counselor meeting was held on March 27, 2023, 6:30 p.m. at the Fairfield Public Library. Looks like we are getting geared up for a great camp this year! The theme for this years camp will be... reveled soon! The next camp counselor meeting will be Monday, April 17, 2023, 6:30 p.m. at the Fairfield Public Library.

Club Dues and 1% Fee

The following clubs have already paid their dues and 1% fees: Spring Creek, Eager Eagles, Prairie Stars, and Teton County 4-H Horse Club. Thank You! Club dues and the 1% fee are normally due on April 15. Because April 15 falls on a Saturday this year, dues and fee deadline will be April 17. We ask that all other clubs and committees send payment to the Extension office by that date. If not paid by April 17, 2023, the amounts will double. Checks should be made to Teton County 4-H Council. If you have questions please call 406-466-2491.

Market Swine, Goat and Lamb Deadlines

Swine possession deadline is Monday, April 3, 2023. Lamb and goat possession deadline is Monday, April 17, 2023. The Extension office sent out packets for these animal projects in early March 2023.

 

Avoid late fees ($100 swine, $80 lamb/goat):

  • Be sure to read all materials in your packet carefully.
  • Complete everything on the Market Animal Agreement before you sign it.
  • Do not wait until the deadline to turn in your assessments! If you turn in your assessment before the due date and there are issues with your assessment, we have time to catch the issues and you have time to correct them.
  • Paperwork, fees and photos can be done through ZSuite, in-person or through the mail.
  • Please contact the office if you have questions, prior to the deadline.

So, avoid a late fee: Read, Complete and Submit Early!!

Swine assessment packets were mailed in early March and are due April 3, 2023. Lamb and goat assessment packets were mailed in early March and are due April 17, 2023.

Volunteer Training

New volunteers must complete training to become active. We ask that returning volunteers complete training modules as soon as possible.

Livestock Quality Assurance (LQA)

Livestock Quality Assurance (LQA) information will be sent directly to livestock project members soon.

Record Book Help

If you would like help with your 4-H record book the Extension office will be available after school until 4:45 p.m. on Thursdays. Bring your record book forms with you. There will be some available at the office if needed.

Teton County 4-H Communications Day

Communications Day was held Saturday, March 18, 2023, at the Choteau Baptist Church. One Cloverbud and six   4-H members presented. The judges Jake Duty, Stewart Merja and Shirley Rutrough provided feedback.Participants pictured below are, back row starting on the left, Ayden DeBruycker, Addi Christensen, Annika Konen, Natalie Hodgskiss, and Nolan DeBruycker. Front row starting on the left, Natalie DeBruycker, Trigg Killorn and guest Tell Killorn.4-H Members who participate in the county Communications Day, are at least 13 4-H age, and receive a blue ribbon or higher are eligible to take their presentations to 4-H Congress in July.

4-H members who participated in Communications Day

Eager Eagles Recieve Grant from Montana Farmer's Union

Eager Eagles 4H Club Receiving Grant from and thanking Montana Farmers Union.Eager Eagles 4-H club applied for and received a grant from Montana Farmer's Union. The Eager Eagles members voted and approved this sentence: “The Eager Eagles 4-H Club wants to give back to the community of Fairfield. We would like to split the $100 dollars into two $50 dollar donations. One $50 donation will go to the Fairfield Food Bank to help support those in need within our community. The remaining $50 will be donated to the New Life Church in Fairfield as a gift for generously allowing our club to use their church facility for our monthly club meetings.”

We will be posting the thank you picture in the Fairfield Sun Times as well. The grant stated that if we posted a thank you in our community we would receive an additional $50!

Challenging Champs Club Minutes

On February 5, 2023, President Jersey Somerfeld called our meeting to order. Our meeting was held at the Power School Cafeteria at 4 p.m.

Caleb led the American Pledge of Allegiance and Calvin led the 4-H Pledge. For roll call we asked, “Who do you think will win the Superbowl?” Twenty-two members, three leaders, and nine visitors were present.

Secretary Jordyn Stengrimson read the January minutes. No corrections were made so the minutes were approved and read.

Treasurer Report:

● $2,977.43. Quinci moved to approve the treasurer's report and Ben seconded that motion.

Jenn Swanson, our Teton County Extension agent, introduced herself to our club.

Old Business:

● March 5 is our club Demonstrations Day. Kelsy has the schedule to sign up.

● Senior Center Valentine Decorating- there are some decorations but please no glitter. Committee members Abigail, Annie and Jessica updated us on their plans to decorate this Thursday, Feb. 9 right after school before the Senior Center Valentine Dinner.

● Our club received $100 from Montana Farmer’s Union to use for our Demonstration Day awards. Maggie Toeckes will make a sign to thank MFU so we can receive another $50 donation. Jenn also volunteered to put our thanks on KSEN.

New Business:

● Rec Lab is March 17-19 in Culbertson. (13+)

● County Communication Day is March 18

● Next baking meeting will be February 19 at 2 p.m. (Martinez’s)

● 4-H Fair is June 19-25 in Choteau

● 4-H Camp is July 25-27

● 4-H Scholarships are available to High School seniors.

● Swine possession deadline is April 2023

● For a fun activity this spring our club decided to go bowling in May. We will also have a meeting beforehand.

● March 25: Woodworking meeting at Luke and Kelsy’s house.

Project Reports:

Annie gave a project report on the previous baking meeting. They made cookie bars and decided what to make for their next meeting. Annie also made a dress with her grandma for her sewing project.

For Colin’s Self-Determined project, he is collecting sports gear, company stickers, etc. He has been writing letters and emails to receive these things.

Kinlie crocheted herself a shirt and made a puppy for her sister.

Cloverbuds Hazley and Ben made a bird feeder out of bagels, peanut butter, and birdseed. They also made Almond Joy bars.

Jersey told the club about making diamonds with her leather work.

Jessica pieced the top of her quilt for the Veterans. She also cut out her dress for sewing.

Our next meeting will be replaced by our Demonstration Day on March 5th. Isaac moved to adjourn the meeting and Abigail seconded that motion.

Colin led the activity with a fun game called “21 and Out”. Abigail led members in making Valentine placemats for the Senior Center.

Meeting minutes submitted by Secretary Jordyn Stengrimson

Rocky Mountain Top Shots

The Montana 4-H State Shoot, held in Bozeman this year, provided an opportunity for the members of the Rocky Mountain Top Shoots to show their talents. The Top Shoots practice every week in a structured environment, honoring safety protocols, and honing their skills with guidance from Brian Bedord, Alan Peace, Fred Ginther, Luke Stewart, and Jason Gibson. Participants in the State Match include Bryce Bedord, Nolan DeBruycker, Dakota Gibson, Avery Larson, Tessa McFarlin, Payten Rapp, Paisley Stewart and Jackson Tacke. Congratulations to all on their outstanding showing at the state level!

Rocky Mountain Top Shots News

Montana 4H Rifle and Pistol Shooters from Teton, Lake, Flathead, Gallatin, and Richland counties competed in the USA Winter Open at the Colorado Springs Olympic Training Center December 2022. Teton County 4-H members Bryce Bedord and Dakota Gibson participated.

Montana State Awards

Teton County                                                                                                                                                                                      The Montana 4-H State Awards program recognizes the outstanding accomplishments of 4-H members who reach a standard of excellence in a project area. State Award winners go above and beyond regular project work with a focus on leadership, communication and community service. Winners are eligible to attend National 4-H Congress in Atlanta, Georgia. The out-of-pocket costs for Teton County 4-H members has been around $300 for the week of National 4-H Congress. The timeline below will help those who plan to apply for state awards in 2022-2023. Much of the process is self-directed.

December:

• Download state award application from Montana 4-H website
• Spend 3-6 hours completing written work – add information based on your own record books, Teton County 4-H newsletters which are posted online, club leader information
• Have your application reviewed by your family members and your club leader
• Look up “verbs for resumes” or “adjectives for resumes” to find powerful words to use as you describe your 4-H work

January:
• By mid-January, please submit your first draft of your written work to the Extension Office for editing and suggestions.
• Start working on your creative work – which can be in a variety of formats including a newspaper publication, quilt, scrapbook, video or slide show.
• Set aside up to 10 hours in January to work on your creative project.

February:
• Schedule an appointment with Extension Office. Discuss corrections needed for written application and brainstorm/plan for creative work.
• Make corrections as needed on your written work. • Set aside at least 5 hours this month to work on your award package.

March:
• Submit a copy of your creative work and corrected written work to the Extension Office.
• Schedule 2-3 hours to work with the office, if you need assistance with technology, writing, etc.
• Complete creative project, as much as possible.

April:
• Schedule 2 hours with the Extension Office to review your work.
• Make recommended changes in your project.
• Have application completed, packaged professionally, signed and delivered to MSU by May 1 (or deadline specified in application).
• Be prepared to spend the hours needed this month to complete your creative project.

Find more information about state awards.

 

Montana State 4-H Congress 2023

The 4-H Network: Connecting Across Montana

  • Registration will open May 1​
  • Registration Deadline is June 15​
  • Event MSU Bozeman Tuesday July 11- Friday July 14​
  • Pre-Congress and Officer Selection Sunday July 9 - Tuesday 11​
  • State Contests Wednesday July 12

Montana 4-H Congress provides youth from across the state an opportunity to come together on the Montana State University campus in Bozeman for four days and participate in an event like no other. Congress offers both youth and adults a venue in which to learn, be challenged, and most of all, have a great time with their peers. Montana 4-Hers have been attending an event like Congress for decades. Congress has become an important tradition and is the signature event for the Montana 4-H Program.

Host International 4-H Youth

Call to Action! Consider hosting the following 4-H youth:

• 2 Norwegian Delegates for approximately 4 weeks, mid- to end of June

• 13 Japanese Delegates for approximately 4 weeks, mid- to end of July

• 2 Japanese Delegates for the Academic Year Program (AYP) beginning in August (lasting approximately August through June)

Experience cultural exchanges firsthand and broaden your global experience.

First come, first serve!

More information contact Christine Sommers-Austin at [email protected]

Contact/Resources (Clip and Keep)

MSU Extension Teton County

Fair Dates

The Teton County Fair is scheduled for the last full weekend in June that includes a Sunday.

2023    June 19-25
2024    June 24-30
2025    June 24-29
2026    June 22-28

Camp Dates

2023   July 24-29

 

 

MSU Extension Teton County
P.O. Box 130
Choteau, MT 59422
406-466-2491


Agents:

Shelby Jones-Dozier [email protected]
Jenn Swanson  [email protected]

Assistants:

JoAnn McDowell & Jamie Smith  [email protected]

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Montana State University and the Montana State University Extension Service prohibit discrimination in all of their programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, and marital and family status. Issued in furtherance of cooperative extension work in agriculture and home economics, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Cody Stone, Director, Extension Service, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT 59717