The State 4-H Citizenship Board recently had their summer meeting on July 28-30, 2009. It was a highly successful meeting in that the board members were able to get to know each other and work together on various levels.

On the first day, the topics of utmost importance were getting the board members acquainted with one another and training them in the different areas in which the board will focus this year. Ms. Kim Jones and Mr. Traig Varnado trained the board in character development, Dr. Janet Fox trained in service-learning, and some 4-H'ers/former 4-H'ers -- Kathryn Barry, Desiree Taylor and Katie LeBlanc -- spoke to the group about some service-learning projects they did in their parishes. Finally, Mrs. Kathleen Schexnayder trained the board on Operation Military Kids. There were also numerous ice breaker games led by Mrs. Laura Brumbaugh. Overall, it was a fun, successful day.

The second day of the meeting took on another stance. Officers were elected as follows: Julie Barrios, president; Rachel Tastet, vice president; Bryanne Millet, secretary; and Cassidy Sonnier, reporter. After they were elected, the officers took over the meeting to make plans for the upcoming year, such as the camp that will be put on by the Citizenship Board. After lunch, the group broke up into committees as follows: Character Development, Operation Military Kids and Service-Learning. They discussed goals to be achieved in each focus area and reported back to the group. After the meeting part of the day, the board went bowling with some of Louisiana’s military families. The group had a great deal of fun.

On the last day of the meeting, board members were able to exercise youth voice by being interviewed about their plans for the year. The meeting as a whole was extremely successful, and we are looking forward to a wonderful year.

Board members had fun learning about character. Board members participated in a balloon toss during a fun tailgating experience. Board members pose for a picture during the meeting. Board members are participating in the meeting. Board members break into committees to discuss goals.

Bowling with military kids. Citizenship Board members have fun with military kids. 2009-2010 Citizenship Board officers and committee chairs. 2009-2010 Citizenship Board officers and committee chairs. 2009-2010 Citizenship Board officers.