Meeting was opened by incoming President Kim Clark on Jan 18, with the Pledge of Allegiance, Creed and Prayer.
12 members were present.
We received a $300 donation to our scholarship fund by past president Deborah Van Tellingen. The donation was in memory of Bobbie Neal Little, Linda Pecotte and John Escobedo. Pat sent a card to Joanne Woodward expressing our sympathy at the passing of her husband David. Lori Nell Reed alerted us that Vivian Myers husband John is very ill with heart issues.
Michelle Greeman caught us up on the State meeting in Albuquerque in December. Michelle asked that we let our voices be heard in regard to the Heinrich-Lujan grazing buy out bill (S.2980, the Wildlife-Livestock Conflict Resolution Act.) There will be serious implications down the road should this bill pass. She noted that the CowBelles will celebrate our 65th anniversary this year. There will be District Work Shops but they may look different this year.
The McKeen Ranch Days are being planned for April 25 and 26th. Marge McKeen reportedly would like to see Operation Respect developed in our community, especially in relation to hunters and those who enjoy using our public lands.
Jessica Swapp-Massengill updated us on happenings at the Grant County Extension Office. (Side Note: Congratulations to Jessica, who was recently named the New Mexico 4-H Agent of the year!)
Hazel Donaldson reported on the Wild and Scenic Committee and noted the importance of similar minded groups (i.e. Cattle Growers, Farm Bureau and other NGOs) working together to better utilize their manpower and resources.
Pat Hunt announced that the 2021 CowBelle of the Year is Vivian Myers.
Our next meeting will be held at the Grant County Extension Office on Feb. 15, 2022 at 11:30. Thereafter, our meetings will be held every other month.
The meeting was adjourned at 1pm.
The installation of new officers was held directly following the meeting: President – Kim Clark, Vice President – Michelle Greeman, Secretary – Carol Crosley, Treasurer – Tenisha Fell
Submitted by Carol Crosley
Grant County Copper CowBelles 