The Legislative Breakfast provides an opportunity to educate Montana legislators about the work and success of 4-H in the state. It brings together youth and adult constituents from across Montana to share stories of achievement drawn from their 4-H experiences. The breakfast also reinforces the vital role of the MSU Cooperative Extension Service budget, which supports 4-H in Montana communities.

The advocacy group, Montanans for 4-H, organizes and hosts the Legislative Breakfast with help from private donations and other support. The breakfast is held during the years when the legislature is in session. © http://montana4h.org/programs/events/legislative-breakfast.html#:~:text=The%20Legislative%20Breakfast%20provides%20an,from%20their%204%2DH%20experiences.

Members from the Sunshine Snippers and Stir, Stitch, n Stirrup 4-H Clubs attended the 4-H Legislative Breakfast, via Zoom, on Tuesday, January 19, 2021. Kelly Rutledge, leader for the Sunshine Snippers 4-H Club, cooked breakfast at Christ Lutheran Church for the attending members at 6:00am.

Chouteau County members attending, included Lance Rutledge, Garrett & Bailey LeFurgey, Colter Han, and Jacynta & Brentlee Bomgardner attended as a group from CLC. Elise, Warren & Eryn Hartley were able to "zoom" in from home. Chouteau County Extension Agent, Janell Barber, also attended via Zoom from another location. One benefit from allowing members to attend via Zoom allowed more members than usual to "attend" this event. They were able to gather, have breakfast and still make it to their regular school day on time.

Representative Neil Duram (R)-HD2, from Eureka, "zoomed" into our breakout room and visited with the members and parents. He talked to everyone; asked questions, encouraged members, and shared his experiences as a Montana Representative and member of Law Enforcement.

This unique opportunity allowed participants the opportunity to interact with a member of our state's legislature, talk about 4-H and share their gratitude for the funding provided by the state to support this worthy organization. While it looked different than years past when members could attend in Helena, it was still a valuable experience for our youth!