FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 28, 2008

Contact:  Sandy Courtnage

Montana Teens Attend 2008 All-States Leadership Camp

GREAT FALLS, MT (July 28, 2008) – A group of 105 Farmers Union teens and counselors from nine states participated in the 2008 National Farmers Union All-States Leadership Camp in Estes Park, Colo. 

Three campers from Montana took part in this once-in-a-lifetime experience.  Tara Graves, Highwood; John Kelly, Chester; and Libby Madison, Great Falls, attended along with Andrew Bishop 2008 NYAC member and Education Director Sonny Harrell.

Throughout the week, the 2008 National Youth Advisory Council led campers in group discussions and activities.  Under the theme, “Project Citizenship,” campers explored their roles as community and organizational leaders, advocates and citizens. They discovered the power of one through individual activism and the strength that comes through cooperation and teamwork.

Guest speakers included NFU President Tom Buis, Greco-Roman Wrestling Olympic Gold Medalist Rulon Gardner, CHS Foundation President William Nelson and Certified Dream Coach Jennifer Stubbs.

In addition to citizenship learning opportunities, participants also enjoyed side trips to Six Flags, Heritage Square Music Hall and Rocky Mountain National Park; outdoor games; a talent show; dances, as well as “Super Hero,” “Bling-Bling” and “Gone Country” theme nights.

During the final evening banquet, keynote speaker NFU President Tom Buis urged all campers to continue their involvement in Farmers Union.   “The young people who attend All-States Leadership Camp are Farmers Union’s hope and future,” said Buis. “It is inspiring to see how enthusiastic, creative and capable this next generation of Farmers Union leaders truly is.”

Later that evening, the campers disbanded their cooperatively run candy store and voted to donate the $703.36 in co-op proceeds to the American Cancer Society. 

The camp concluded with the election of the new 2009 NYAC, which will represent their peers at the 2009 NFU Convention in Washington, D.C., and the 2009 NFU All-States Leadership Camp.  Elected to the 2009 NYAC from Montana was Libby Madison, Great Falls, Mont., the daughter of Larry Madison and Diana Madison.  Libby will be a senior at Great Falls High School this fall.

Each summer, Farmers Union members ages 17 to 22, who have distinguished themselves as leaders by meeting state eligibility requirements, are given the opportunity to attend All-States Leadership Camp.

-30-