The Area IV meeting of South Dakota Community Family and Extension Leaders was held Saturday, April 13, at the Huron Area Senior Center. 

The theme for the day was “You Are My Sunshine!”  The morning session began in the Fireside Room. Diana Barton, Beadle County CFEL President, welcomed the group. Special guests were Lynette Culver, South Dakota State CFEL President and Edith Harmon, Area II Director.

Stephanie Ptak of “Just Fabulous” clothing boutique gave a program for the issue “Aging Gracefully.”  She brought several vintage clothing and accessory items that could still be used today. She urged the members to think of new ways to use what they already have; re-think their present wardrobe, and wear what makes them feel good.

Lynette Culver brought greetings from the state executive board. She reminded members that there is now only one $50 state convention scholarship for each area. The “Fact Sheets” are now being sent with the first newsletter of the year, so every member should get that. Lynette also reminded members to send in the “Leadership” and “Susan Wilder Scholarship” contributions. 

Dianne Perry, Area IV President, introduced Alison Dennis, Area IV Director, Deanne Ness, State Membership Chairman, and the officers of each club.

Alison Dennis summarized the 2023 issues reports from each club. The members are busy with many volunteer activities in their communities and churches, and also give monetary donations to many charitable organizations.

Deanne Ness reported on plans for the 2024 State Convention, which Area IV is hosting. The convention will be held at the Crossroads in Huron Sept. 20-21, with the theme “Christmas in September.” Members are asked to wear Christmas attire on Friday. Lynette Culver has flyers that tell about the CFEL organization that we can use when contacting businesses.

Alison Dennis presented the following certificates to members:
• Diana Barton, 25-year membership
• Sandra Aldrich and Fern Mattke, 35-year memberships
• Deanne Ness, 40-year membership
• Sue Gose, 60-year membership
• Esther Gilchrist, 65 year membership

Alison Dennis conducted a memorial service for Lois Polfus, who passed away last summer.

Following the noon meal, members viewed the Cultural Arts displays and voted for People’s Choice award, and bid on Silent Auction items.

Dianne Perry and Julie Boomsma led the group in singing songs that were related to the “You Are My Sunshine” theme. “You Are My Sunshine,” “We all Live in a Yellow Submarine,” and “Sunshine on My Shoulder” were sung.

Theresa Horn gave a reading  on “Life’s Priorities”  for the issue “Minds Matter.”  

Theresa Horn won the drawing for the $50 scholarship to the state convention. First alternate is Lorrine Cavagielli, and second alternate is Diana Barton.

Twenty-one were registered for the meeting. Eight members entered 93 cultural arts exhibits. People’s Choice awards went to Theresa Horn and Brenda Christianson. Door prizes (tulip centerpieces made by Theresa Horn) were given to members.

Members voted to make a cookbook to put in the welcome bags for the State Convention. Recipes should be given to the club presidents, and Deanne Ness and Diana Barton will arrange them to be printed for the convention.