HURON — The South Dakota Community and Family Extension Leaders, (SDCFEL), held its 90th State Convention Sept. 14-15 at the Huron Crossroads and Event Center.
The theme for the convention was “Women of the Prairie.” The theme was followed throughout the convention, with table decorations, table favors, antique table display, and members wearing bonnets, aprons or long skirts. The convention started Friday morning, with registration, and entering of Cultural Arts exhibits, and Silent Auction Items. Members donated books for the SDCFEL Book Sale. Members from Area IV (Beadle and Jerauld County) hosted the convention.
The opening ceremonies started with the state officers marching in with the American and state flags. State President Ethel Evans called the meeting to order, with a greeting from Alison Dennis of Huron, Area IV Director. The Chamber welcomed the SDCFEL members to Huron. The minutes of the last state meeting were read by Darleen Cuppy. Julie Moes, state treasurer, gave a report on the proposed 2019 budget.
Karla Trautman, adviser, gave an update on things that were going on at SDSU, and answered any questions. Sandy Kissner presented a program on the “Quilts of Valor.”
Dr. Jane Strommen, SDSU/NDSU, gave a program on “Planning for Care for Your Loved Ones and Yourself.” This will be one of the 2019 Issues to be discussed at the local clubs.
The entertainment for Friday evening was Rachael Farrell, on Victoria’s Unmentionables.

A memorial service was held Saturday for members who have passed away. Other committee reports were given, and election of officers were held.
Throughout the convention, members were viewing the cultural arts, bidding on silent auction items, trying to win that special raffle item they wanted, viewing the antique display that Ellen Halter presented, and finding that special book at the book sale.
The second issue for members to discuss in 2019, was “Beauty From the Inside Out,” presented by Shelley Buddenhagen. She reminded members how important it is to exercise, and follow a nutritional diet.
During the award luncheon Saturday, members were honored for their years of membership in CFEL, oldest club award, Spirit of CFEL, public issues award, and volunteer hours
Following the luncheon, members had a parade, wearing bonnets, aprons or long skirts that followed the theme of “Women of the Prairie.”
Tessa Flak gave a program on “Challenges of a Prairie Woman.”
Laurie Shelton from the Huron Chamber showed a slide show and talked about the Huron Murals.
Members were able to work on two crafts projects. One was a fall project and the other was a photo block. Many enjoyed the classes.
The business meeting ended Saturday with the installation of officers, and an invite from Areas I and II for the State 2019 Convention in Spearfish, Sept. 20-21, 2019. The State officers retired the flags.
Members ended their convention with a banquet on Saturday night.
JoLynne Parmely, vocalist, provided entertainment for the evening. The Presidents Award was given, and results announced for registration, Cultural Arts and People’s Choice,  silent auction, book sale, and raffle winners. Julie Moes, state treasure, awarded the members with scholarships.
Area IV would like to thank all the members from across the state who attended the State Convention in Huron.