August 2011, FFA New Horizons

FFA

new horizons l o g o n a t w w w. f f a . o r g / f f a n a t i o n

速

the magazi ne of the n ational ffa orga nization | August 2 011

From the Vine to the

Lunch Line Kentucky chapter sells produce to high school cafeteria

Sharp Shooter

Meet a world champion in cowboy mounted shooting Create a profile. Add friends. Start a group. Voice your opinions. www.ffa.org/ffanation

ffa

Volume 58 Number 6

new horizons

®

August 2011

The magazine of the National FFA Organization

Kim Newsom holmberg

jessy yancey

Julie woodard

Kristy Meyer

BLAIR THOMAS

RAVEN PETTY

JESSICA MOZO

Christina Carden

Janine maryland, KRIS SEXTON,

VIKKI WILLIAMS Chandra bradshaw, lance conzett,

marcus snyder

jeffrey s. otto

Jeff adkins, Brian McCord todd bennett, antony boshier

Yancey bond

richard stevens

alison hunter

Robin robertson

CHRIS DUDLEY

Kristy duncan

Katie Middendorf krystin lemmon, Patricia Moisan Diana guzman, maria mcfarland,

shelly miller, Lisa Owens

Gary Smith

Keith harris

Ray Langen

todd potter

Casey Hester

Teree Caruthers

Mark Forester

Natasha Lorens

Editor Associate Editor FFA Publications Manager FFA Communications Content Coordinator Proofreading Manager Contributing Writer Media Technology Director Senior Graphic Designers Media Technology Analysts Photography Director Senior Photographers Staff Photographers Information Technology Director Web Designer Color Imaging Technician Senior Integrated Media Manager Controller Executive Secretary Ad Production Manager Ad Traffic Assistants Accounting Distribution Director Marketing Creative Director Executive Vice President Sr. V.P./Sales Sr. V.P./Operations V.P./External Communications V.P./Visual Content V.P./Content Operations

For advertising information, contact Robin Robertson, (800) 333-8842, ext. 227, or e-mail rrobertson@jnlcom.com.

2010-2011 National FFA Officers

riley pagett, ok

landan schaffert, co

tiffany rogers, mi

Wyatt dejong, so

james flatt, tn

shannon norris, nm National FFA Staff

steve brown

Charles browne

dwight armstrong

Marion Fletcher

Mark Cavell, rob cooper,

Dale Crabtree, bill fleet, janet maloney, Kent schescke, Vicki settle, lee anne shiller,

Tony Small, Bill stagg

Contents

6 cover story

President Secretary Eastern Region Vice President Central Region Vice President Southern Region Vice President Western Region Vice President

Chapter sells produce to high school.

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Interim National FFA Advisor Interim Executive Secretary Chief Executive Officer National Treasurer Division Directors

National FFA Board of Directors – Members

steve brown Chair, USDE, VA

charles browne Secretary, USDE, VA

Marion Fletcher Treasurer, State Supervisor, AR

Jim Barbee State Supervisor, NV

Wilbur Chancellor State Supervisor, MS

Keith Cox FFA Executive Secretary/USDE, SC

ALICE DUBOIS Business Representative/USDE, LA

Jeff hicken State Supervisor, WI

Curt Lucas State Supervisor, KY

Brian E. Myers Associate Professor/USDE, FL

John Rakestraw Business Representative/USDE, CO Subscription Information: FFA New Horizons (ISSN 1069-806X) is published Feb., April, June, Aug., Oct. and Dec. by the National FFA Organization, 6060 FFA Drive, Indianapolis, IN 46268-0960. Publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, art or any other unsolicited materials. For subscription information contact: FFA New Horizons Subscription Services, (317) 802-4235 or e-mail newhorizons@ffa.org. Periodical postage rate is paid at Indianapolis, Ind., and additional mail offices.

Postmaster: Please send address changes to FFA New Horizons, P.O. Box 68960, Indianapolis, IN 46268-0960.

Copyright© 2011 by the National FFA Organization and Journal Communications Inc. The National FFA Organization is dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education.

Please recycle this magazine

From the Vine to the Lunch Line

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Scrapbook

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FFA Faces

One Sharp Shooter

New Mexico FFA member is a world champion in cowboy mounted shooting.

Read news, jokes and more.

Learn about members’ achievements.

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National Officer Q & A

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National Officer Q & A

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Back Talk

18

Your Money

Meet National Vice President James Flatt.

Meet National Vice President Shannon Norris.

Meet Jeff Simmons, president of Elanco Animal Health.

Learn six tips for tipping etiquette.

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On the Cover A Boyle County High School FFA student picks cherry tomatoes, which will be sold in her Kentucky community. Photo By Brian McCord

www.ffa.org/ffanation

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FFA scrapbook

Express yourself

Just Joking Why did the farmer go to jail?

His pigs squealed on him.

Why did the chef go to jail?

He was caught beating an egg.

Jokes submitted

by Dan Andrews, Advisor, Wauneta-Palisade FFA chapter, Nebraska

Chapter Spotlight: Sunny Hills FFA, California

It’s hard to believe, but three ewes and five goats live on a school farm just 15 miles from Los Angeles, Calif.

The Sunny Hills High School agriculture department, founded in 1950, is now surrounded by sprawling industry, multiple shopping centers, and seemingly endless urbanization.

State public speaking finalists, national proficiency winners and grand champion beef cattle have all hailed from the farm that is located in a “small” California town of 175,000 people.

Those involved with Sunny Hills FFA enjoy that, amid the hustle and bustle of the city, a little slice of paradise exists.

And no matter how much the area grows, there will always be a rural escape.

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Did you attend your state FFA convention this year? Post your best convention photos on FFA Nation (ffa.org/ffanation) or on the FFA Facebook page (facebook.com/nationalffa).

www.ffa.org/ffanation

Packing Potatoes, Preventing Hunger

Last March, in celebration of National Agriculture Week, more than 500 Syngenta employees and FFA members gathered together to pack potatoes for a good cause. They packed MannaPack potato meals, which are dehydrated potatoes formulated to prevent starvation in children, as part of the Feed My Starving Children (FMSC) hunger outreach program. Over two days, the volunteers worked 12 hours and made more than 178,000 servings of the potato-based formula.

FFA was well represented by local members and past national FFA officers Chase Rose and Laila Hajji. Learn more about the program at www.fmsc.org.

FYI Your Turn

Keep us informed!

This is your chance to be a part of FFA New Horizons. Send us a short article about your latest chapter activities, awards you’ve received or even your involvement outside FFA.

Part of a Family

When you join the Cabool FFA chapter in Missouri, you might as well sign on to be part of the Long family. Our agriculture teacher, Mr. Scott Long, cares so much about his agriculture students and helping us achieve our potential.

So last December when we learned that Mr. Long’s 13-year-old son, Reid, had been in a terrible sledding accident, you can imagine how the news shook our entire community.

Reid had torn the lining of his carotid artery and had a stroke.

A group of FFA members had the idea of a benefit dinner and auction. It was perfect.

What better way to help a family who had helped us all so much? We organized the event in only 13 days. Nearly 450 people came, and we raised $20,000!

Reid is now doing well and attends school part time. Through this experience, our chapter has grown stronger and our hearts a little bigger because there is no greater joy than being able to serve those you love. – Kayla Cox, 2010-11 Cabool FFA President www.ffa.org/ffanation

Be sure to include a high-quality color photo and your contact information.

Want an easy way to send your story? Visit ffanewhorizons.org and click on  Tell Us. Or, send to: FFA New Horizons P.O. Box 68960 Indianapolis, IN 46268 newhorizons@ffa.org

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FFA Faces

Win a Pair of Wrangler Jeans Wrangler, the sponsor of FFA Faces, will award a pair of jeans to featured members.

Nominate yourself to be considered for FFA Faces by following the steps below.

Questions? E-mail ffanation@jnlcom.com.

Go Online

Visit www.ffafaces.com and click on Register. You can nominate yourself or another current FFA member.

Melanie Palmer

Describe

Fill out the form to tell us about you – your FFA involvement, school activities, future plans and more.

IA

Chapter: Griswold FFA

FL

Chapter: Laurel Hill FFA

TX

Chapter: Rider FFA

Kristen, a high school sophomore, raises swine for her supervised agricultural experience (SAE) program. Her pig placed second in its class at the Fort Worth Stock Show and fifth in its class at the Houston Livestock Show. Kristen has also shown poultry and participated in the FFA Creed and dairy products CDEs. She is active in student council and plays basketball.

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This recent high school graduate served his FFA chapter as vice president in 2010-2011. John was part of the livestockjudging team and the water-quality monitoring and recycling programs for four years. He also taught at the chapter’s annual Progressive Farmer farm safety day and was chosen as a District Star Farmer in 2010.

Meyer Jay

CA

Chapter: Mariposa FFA

This high school sophomore says she is passionate about agriculture and FFA. Ashley serves as president of her FFA chapter and her subdistrict’s co-chairperson. She also has been a state finalist in FFA Creed speaking and prepared public speaking.

Ashley is also active in Fellowship of Christian Athletes and ranked third in her class for academic achievement.

Kristen Henry

John Eberhart Chapter: Fort Payne FFA

Melanie, who will start her high school senior year this fall, has been an FFA officer for the past two years. She enjoys showing dairy goats at her local county fair and participating in horse judging, livestock judging, meats, soils, Envirothon, floriculture and the Greenhand quiz. Melanie placed sixth in the state Greenhand quiz event.

Ashley McLeod

Upload

Find a great photo of yourself – head and shoulders photos work best – and upload it as part of the nomination form.

Meyer, who recently graduated from high school, has competed in the environmental and natural resource, forestry, parliamentary procedure, FFA Creed, job interview and prepared public speaking career development events (CDEs). He has attended the California State FFA Conference for four years in a row, and this year served on the committee for electing state FFA officers.

Drew Courtouise

MO

Chapter: Bourbon FFA

Drew served as his chapter’s sentinel this past year and was also a member of the livestock-judging team. He will be a junior this fall, and he hopes to participate in agricultural mechanics and agricultural issues this year. Drew raises market steers for his SAE and enjoys doing farm work outside of his school and FFA involvement.

www.ffa.org/ffanation

Story by Jessica Mozo Photography by Brian McCord

Vine

From the

to the Lunch Line Kentucky FFA chapter embraces LOCAL FOOD movement, sells produce to high school cafeteria

Story by Jessica Mozo

W

hen Tucker Huntsinger passes through the cafeteria line at Boyle County High School in Danville, Ky., he gets a sense of personal satisfaction knowing the lettuce being served in salads and other dishes is the product of his own hands.

A senior and president of the Boyle County FFA Chapter, Tucker learned how to grow hydroponic lettuce from taking a greenhouse technology class. Using those skills, Tucker created two lettuce beds in his school’s state-of-the-art greenhouse, each bed producing 120 heads at a time. Soon, he began selling his lettuce to all the schools in Boyle County for use in their cafeterias.

“Hydroponic lettuce is grown on water in an oasis cube, with no soil involved,” Tucker explains.

“It’s cleaner and healthier this way, because there are no chemicals used. Several people have asked me to buy it, so I plan to add more beds and double production so I can sell it to anyone who wants some.”

Boyle County FFA advisor Toni Myers helped Tucker get his lettuce into local cafeterias.

“We live in an awesome community where people support us, and our school’s food director showed me hydroponic lettuce,” Myers says. “We thought we could tackle it, so we experimented with it, and it just evolved. The cafeteria was

already buying lettuce, and this was something we could do for them.”

Tucker is just one of the Boyle County FFA members who has had success growing and selling food.

The whole chapter has embraced the nationwide local food movement, producing everything from vegetables and eggs to herbs and greenhouse plants.

“The local food movement has gotten lots of publicity nationwide, and we strive to stay current on what’s happening in the world,” Myers says.

“When I started teaching here in 2007, there was a 30-year-old greenhouse that needed replaced. We raised enough money with the help of the local ag community to build

Students in the agriculture program at Boyle County High School learn about vegetable production through work in the school’s greenhouse.

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a new greenhouse, and we use it to grow things that will impact our community.”

The Boyle County Farmers’ Market invited the agriculture students to sell their bedding plants, herbs, flowers and hanging baskets at the market in summer 2011. Kaitlin Ziesmer, a senior FFA member, was also invited to sell eggs she produces

on her family’s small farm.

“My freshman year, I did an incubation project where I brought home six chickens,” Kaitlin says.

“My dad helped me put together a chicken coop, and now I have 33 chickens.”

Kaitlin spends about 30 minutes every day feeding the chickens, cleaning the coop and gathering

eggs, which she sells to friends, family and teachers through Boyle County High School’s agriculture office.

“I sell about 10 dozen eggs a week, and the teachers love them,” Kaitlin says. “The last two years, I brought eggs for our teacher appreciation breakfast during FFA week, and that opened doors

Boyle County FFA members have a diversified program, including growing vegetables in raised beds and flowers in the greenhouse; selling produce and eggs locally; and growing hydroponic lettuce for the high school cafeteria to use in school meals. At the root of each project is agriculture teacher Toni Myers (pictured far right), who helps her students understand the science behind each project and develop the skills necessary to grow and successfully market their products.

for me to sell more eggs.”

Because Kaitlin sells eggs that are only one day old, people notice a big improvement in the freshness and taste compared to store-bought eggs.

“The people who eat Kaitlin’s eggs will actually fight over buying them – they’re that good,” Myers says. “Last year, I visited her farm, and her project is just phenomenal in the way it is engineered. She has taken a lot of initiative.”

Another Boyle County FFA member, junior David Faulkner, also produces and sells his own eggs.

“These kids are really wellrounded in ag education. They have great projects and are leaders in our chapter,” says Matt Whitaker, who co-teaches agriculture with Myers.

“They are strong classroom students, so we don’t have to worry about their grades. And they think outside the box – they are willing to take risks and try anything we throw at them.”

In spring 2011, Boyle County High School’s agriscience class built raised beds near the greenhouse, where they grew tomatoes, peppers, broccoli, cabbage and spinach to donate to local food banks. Students also grew more than 100 pounds of cherry tomatoes that were sold to the school’s cafeteria, like Tucker’s hydroponic lettuce.

“The cherry tomatoes were a class project, and we’re proud of it,” Myers says. “It brings me a lot of satisfaction to see the kids eat them right off the vine – they pop them in their mouths like candy. Then they see those same tomatoes in the lunch line, and they get to see that connection come full circle.” www.ffa.org/ffanation

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FFA National Officer

Q&A

Q

What are some of the ways you’ve served others through your FFA supervised agricultural experience (SAE) program?

A

I have had the opportunity to travel on several mission trips with my parents in disaster relief cleanup. The first one was my freshman year of high school to help with cleanup after Hurricane Katrina. It was the first time in my life that I realized the true joy of helping others in need, and it’s something that has stayed with me in my heart ever since.

Q

FYI James’ Favorites Food: Seafood Cereal: Frosted Flakes Movie: Remember the Titans Type of music: Country Color: John Deere green FFA convention event: The sessions Smell: Cedar, because it reminds me of home.

School subject (high school): American history Hobby: Golf Sport: Cycling

A James

Flatt

National FFA Southern Region Vice President

Growing up in a missionary family, James Flatt quickly learned the blessings of servant leadership through his parents’ example of self sacrifice. And this Lebanon, Tenn., native says that example has helped him determine his life’s mission.

As an FFA member, James has found ways to connect his passions for service and agriculture, through his supervised agricultural experience (SAE) program in home and community development.

And now, as a national FFA officer, he’s using his passions in a whole new way, by inspiring those around him.

Learn more about James.

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This year’s national FFA convention theme is “I Believe.” What do you believe?

I believe… agriculture is the greatest industry in the world.

I believe… there are 520,000 people across this country changing the future and making it a better place.

I believe… in taking advantage of opportunities.

Q

What is something you’ve learned about yourself this year as a national FFA officer?

A

I’ve learned throughout my travels this year that I really enjoy taking one day at a time. I’ve learned that there is really no use in worrying about tomorrow, when we can take advantage of enjoying what’s before us right this moment.

Q

What’s the strangest thing you’ve ever eaten?

A Q

I actually like to eat frog legs. It’s not really weird to me, but there are a lot of people who think it is!

What is your favorite movie quote?

A

I’ve always liked the quote “Attitude reflects leadership.”

It’s a from Remember the Titans. www.ffa.org/ffanation

FFA National Officer

Q&A

Shannon

Norris

National FFA Western Region Vice President

Growing up on a beef cattle ranch in the tiny town of Cliff, N.M., Shannon Norris learned the importance of hard work and community involvement at an early age. She joined FFA in the seventh grade, and since then, has participated in the livestock, horse and wool evaluation career development events (CDEs) and public speaking. Shannon also showed market lambs and raised purebred Angus and Shorthorn cattle for her supervised agricultural experience (SAE) program.

Q

One of our articles in this issue focuses on the importance of FFA members being an ambassador for agriculture in their own communities. What tips do you have for FFA members who are inspired to teach others about agriculture?

A

Opportunities to spread agriculture’s message are everywhere! FFA members are key educators on food, fiber and natural resources. Possible ways to teach others are by holding agricultural awareness days; hosting Food for America presentations to elementary students; or by finding fun ways to involve the community such as having agricultural relays, bingo or an FFA carnival.

Q

What is the kindest thing someone has ever done for you?

A

I believe small acts of kindness are the best way to change the world.

My family members constantly drop

www.ffa.org/ffanation

FYI everything to help my sister and me.

The simple act of giving up other things to spend time with someone is one of the best ways to show love and respect. Make sure to thank those that selflessly give kindness in your life.

Q

What has been one of your most rewarding experiences, so far, as a national FFA officer?

A

I watched a young man who has Asperger’s syndrome (mild form of autism) struggle memorizing and reciting the FFA Creed in his agriculture classroom. After several days of practice, he said the FFA Creed close to perfectly.

That was really inspiring to me and a nice reminder that FFA has a unique way of utilizing hands-on classroom instruction and personal development to help students reach their infinite potential.

Shannon’s Favorites

Cereal: Cocoa Puffs Book: Bible Movie: The Blind Side Season: Summer Board game: Apples to Apples Candy: Sour gummy worms Cartoon: Looney Tunes Animal: Horse

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She’s One Sharp

Shooter New Mexico FFA member is a world champion in cowboy mounted shooting

Story by Jessica Mozo

K

athy Hollmann is not your typical high school athlete. Instead of balls and nets, her sport involves horses and handguns.

The 18-year-old FFA member from Hagerman, N.M., began competing in the equine sport of cowboy mounted shooting at age 7, and in 2010, she snagged the world champion title at the Single Action Shooting Society’s world championship in Edgewood, N.M. She is the third woman to ever win a mounted-shooting world title.

“I started shooting at age 2, riding horses at age 3 and shooting real bullets in competition at age 7,” says Kathy, who graduated from Hagerman High School in May and is attending Eastern New Mexico UniversityRoswell this fall. “I love horses and shooting, so by the age of 10, I was hooked.”

Kathy excelled at the sport under the watchful eye of her father Jim Hollmann, a seasoned mounted shooter and longtime law enforcement officer.

“We have two sons 10 and 11 years older than Kathy, and whatever we boys were doing, Kathy wanted to do it too,” Jim recalls. “I’ve been in law enforcement 33 years and in firearms training most of that time, so I figured if anybody could teach a 2-year-old to shoot, it would be me. The first time Kathy went to shoot in an action match, she was 7, and people were amazed at her trigger control – she didn’t miss a target.”

Since then, Kathy has been traveling with her dad and mom, Chaleeporn (a native of Thailand), to 20 matches each year in Texas, New Mexico, Colorado and Arizona. She competes at Single Action Shooting Society events as well as those organized by the Cowboy Mounted Shooting Association, which was formed in the early 1990s and has 95 affiliated clubs across the country.

“SASS and CMSA mounted shooting are both going strong, and cowboy mounted shooting is the fastestgrowing equine sport in the nation, perhaps the world,”

Cowboy Action Shooting champion Kathy Hollmann (left) trained Roy, her horse, herself. She says it’s especially important for the horse to become familiar with the sound of the gun. Kathy has been competing since she was seven years old.

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Jim says. “Depending on what skill level you compete at, it is an extremely fast and exciting family sport. Both organizations have multiple scholarships for shooting members and each year.”

When competing, participants are required to dress in traditional or old-time western clothing, including long-sleeved western shirts, five-pocket blue jeans covered by chinks or chaps, western boots, and cowboy hats.

They can use any horse or mule, but the animal must be comfortable with shooting, turning and running fast.

Kathy competes on a 9-year-old quarter horse named Roy. “I’ve had Roy for five years, and I trained him myself,” she says. “It can take two to four years for a horse to be ready for shooting. You have to let them run the courses and then dry-fire to let them hear the click of the gun.”

Cowboy mounted shooting is a fast-action timed event.

Riders use two .45-caliber single-action revolvers, each loaded with five rounds of specially prepared blank ammunition. As the timer ticks, a participant rides a predetermined pattern with the goal of shooting 10 balloons in a certain order. Riders are scored on

photo courtesy of Jim Hollman

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“The first time Kathy went to shoot in an action match, she was 7, and people were amazed at her trigger control – she didn’t miss a target.”

time and accuracy, with penalties for missed balloons, dropped guns, incorrect run of the course, and falling off their horse.

“We’re split up in different classes,” Kathy explains.

“The kids under 12 are in the wrangler class, and they run the same course as the adults and get timed for it, but they shoot toy guns.”

Teens and adults compete in six classes each of the men’s, women’s and seniors’ divisions. The prize for the best overall score transcends both age and gender – it’s not uncommon for moms and dads to compete against each other and their kids.

Safety in horse training and gun handling is a top priority, and many CMSA clubs sponsor clinics for new shooters to learn the basics of safe riding and shooting.

“It’s a great family sport,” Kathy says. “It’s pretty

well-known worldwide, but I’m the only one from my school of 400 kids who does it.”

Before winning the SASS World Champion title in 2010 at age 16, Kathy won the SASS Ladies World Champion title in 2008 at age 14. The two women who won world titles before Kathy were both in their 30s, making Kathy the only female teen to ever be named champion.

“We meet the nicest people in this sport,” Kathy says.

“I love it because it puts the two things I love most together – riding and shooting.”

Kathy is majoring in business and plans to become a high school welding and agriculture instructor.

Eventually, she hopes to have a career as a full-time horse trainer.

To learn more about Kathy’s sport, visit her website at www.morningdoverides.com.

During competition, Kathy must ride a particular pattern, determined at random the day of the event, with 10 balloons she must shoot along the route. The pattern can usually be run in 15 to 35 seconds, and while speed is important, shooting accuracy is how contests are won. Competitors use .45 caliber Long Colt cartridges, which are loaded with black powder, like that used in the 1800s. According to the Cowboy Mounted Shooting Association, this load can break a balloon up to 15 feet away.

photo courtesy of bobby goode

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photo courtesy of Mark Quigley

www.ffa.org/ffanation

FFA Back Talk

Former members Reflect

Jeff

Simmons FFA alumnus and president of Elanco Animal Health urges you to

help eradicate hunger

FFA alumnus Jeff Simmons is an active advocate of food technology and its role in providing more affordable, efficient and sustainable production of meat, dairy and eggs, a passion that stemmed from his own farm upbringing in New York state.

That passion now extends into his career as president of Elanco, the animal health division of Eli Lilly and Company, and most recently, into his creation of a white paper titled “Making Safe, Affordable, Abundant Food a Global Reality.” Below, Simmons shares his views on food production.

A

ccording to the World Wildlife Fund Living Planet Index, we’re already at 1.5 times our Earth’s carrying capacity. And our population is predicted to grow by several billion in the next 40 years.

In the amount of time you spend reading this article, 62 people will die of hunger. World Food Programme reports that every hour, 750 children around the world die from a lack of food. Since 2008, more than 18 million people have died from hunger. That’s like wiping the cities of New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston and Dallas off the map.

Whether you’re an FFA member growing up on a farm like I did, or a concerned environmentalist in a large city, I believe we can all agree on the need for safe, affordable, abundant food. But how do we produce it in a sustainable way? Jason Clay at World Wildlife Fund has said, “To feed 9 billion people and maintain the planet, we must freeze the footprint of food.”

I believe there are two key ingredients to making sustainable production of safe, affordable, abundant food a global reality: technology and choice.

Technology, as defined by the World Health Organization, includes: • Practices – doing it better by the way you do it, whether it’s how you raise the animal or grow the plant.

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• Products – new, innovative tools the industry is delivering to our food producers daily. www.ffa.org/ffanation

• Genetics – improving the genetic code of the plant or animal we’re producing.

Why technology? Technology creates efficiency, which helps keep production costs and ultimately food costs lower, and food affordability is critical to addressing hunger, especially considering nearly half of our global population lives on less than $2 a day.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Economic Research Service recently reported that in the past 60 years, agriculture output has increased 2.5 times, while holding inputs essentially steady.

For example, today one cow produces the same amount of milk it took five cows to produce in 1944, which means we need far fewer cows to meet the global demand for milk. Because of this improved efficiency, modern production of every gallon of milk requires 65 percent less water and 90 percent less land than it did in 1944.

Meanwhile the industry is producing 76 percent less manure for each gallon of milk sold, contributing to a carbon footprint for a gallon of milk that is 63 percent smaller than it was in 1944. And the story is the same for beef and other animal protein production.

That brings us to choice, which is a consumer right.

Whether it’s the Chinese consumer that wants to diversify her diet from grains to include animal sourced protein as her affluence grows, or it’s the American consumer who wants to choose locally grown or artisanal products, consumers have the right to a broad variety of food choices. We can’t allow a small fringe to impose their social agenda on the entire food system to limit use of safe production practices or products, which would ultimately decrease consumer choice. Technology helps allow these choices.

The facts align to support a position on which we can all agree: we must commit ourselves to ensuring that a global supply of safe, affordable and abundant food can become a reality in our lifetime. And it starts with you!

What can you do to help eradicate hunger, while also preserving our environment and right to choice?

1.

Make it personal.

Until you step out of your “bubble” and see hunger up close and personal, this issue is just a bunch of statistics for someone else to solve. You don’t have to travel to Africa or Brazil, as I did. I guarantee there are hungry people in your backyard. Get involved.

2.

Engage.

Your network, your family and friends, food chain influencers you know and interact with.

Help expose the myth. The majority of consumers are comfortable with technology use in food production.

We can’t be swayed by a fringe group of 1 percent.

3.

Support.

Make your voice heard. Stand ready to support the 99 percent of the world’s citizens who want unconstrained choice and a supply of safe, affordable and wholesome food. When faced by fringe groups looking to eliminate choice or ban practices, respectfully ask them to prove their assertions using sound scientific data, which they can share with regulatory bodies.

Farmers and ranchers are the original stewards of our Earth, and I believe no one is better suited than our industry to achieve the goal of sustainably feeding a population of 9 billion.

As FFA members, you are the leaders and visionaries of tomorrow who will be tasked with solutions to this challenge. I encourage you to think about new and different ways to enhance the efficiency of food production.

You are also a powerful voice! Speak out for agriculture and help spread this message.

ffanation.ffa.org Visit the online version of this story at ffa.org/ffanation to download Simmons’ white paper and join the ongoing dialogue on this issue.

www.ffa.org/ffanation

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FFA your money

Tips on Tipping

Tipping Points 6 tips for

determining gratuities

W

ho to tip, who not to tip, how much to tip … the subject of tipping can be pretty confusing. But as a general rule, if someone is providing a service for you, it is appropriate to tip them for it.

Service providers who always expect a tip include servers at sit-down restaurants, hairstylists and manicurists, valet parkers, car washers, delivery people, movers, pet groomers, taxi drivers, tour guides and staffers at upscale hotels or resorts. This is assuming you received satisfactory service – you should not feel obligated to tip if the service was rude, incompetent or unreasonably late.

There are other instances when you should not feel obligated to tip, such as at a fast food counter or coffee shop, even if there is a tip jar. That being said, if it is a place you visit regularly and the staff knows you, you might want to drop in a dollar or some spare change.

Read on for more tips on how to determine gratuities.

Consider the type of service.

Some service providers are accustomed to receiving percentagebased tips. Restaurant servers and hairstylists, for example, usually get 15 to 20 percent. Others receive a flat tip, such as $2 for a car washer or $10 for a furniture mover.

Consider your FINANCES. Knowing what you can afford can help determine whether to tip on the high or low end of the spectrum.

Read the fine print.

Don’t get fooled into tipping twice.

Many restaurants automatically add a tip (often called gratuity) to your

18

FFA

New Horizons

Evaluate the service.

The decision to tip high or low depends on the quality of service you received and the attitude of the person giving it. The amount also tells the person how they are doing.

A server who goes above and beyond might deserve a 20 percent tip, while for average service, 15 percent is appropriate.

Don’t flaunt it.

It’s best to be inconspicuous about your tip and not leave the money in plain sight. Instead, put it inside the folder your bill came in, leave it in an envelope, or hand it to the service provider discreetly.

Keep the amount between you and the person you’re tipping.

bill if there are more than six people in your party. Likewise, cruise ships and fancy hotels might include a “service fee” that takes care of tipping. When in doubt, just ask if the tip is included.

Be merciful.

You never know if the person waiting on you is having the worst day of their life, so unless the service is terrible, tip them. Speak to a manager if you feel they should know about poor service. Remember many people make a living off of tips, so don’t be stingy.

– Jessica Mozo

Tipping Guide Want a little more tipping know-how?

Check out this list of service providers and their common gratuities: Servers, 15 to 20 percent Buffet restaurant server, 10 percent Taxi/limo driver, 15 to 20 percent Hairstylist/manicurist, 15 percent Barber, $2 or $3 Valet parker, $1 or $2 Car washer, $2 Tour guide, $2 or $3 Bellhop, $1 per bag handled Hotel maid, $3 per night Coat checker, $1 Pizza deliverer, $2 or 10 percent Mover, $10 Pet groomer, 15 percent Coffee barista, optional

www.ffa.org/ffanation

More

in Four Watch your mailbox in September for the relaunched FFA New Horizo ns – we’re going quarterly!

More exciting changes to the magazine: A Bold New Design.

More Stories, Period.

Think innovative, fresh and modern. Those words (which we think represent today’s FFA member) also describe the new design for your FFA magazine. Every single page will have a new look, and we can’t wait for you to see our new cover design.

Don’t worry, we haven’t forgotten about the other stories you enjoy – the profiles on other FFA members and chapters, stories about life after high school, and spotlights on agricultural careers. These topics are all still major content areas for FFA New Horizons, plus some exciting regular features about leadership and community service.

More Stories About Agriculture.

Better “Flop” Factor.

Good idea, right? Be on the lookout for more in-depth stories about major issues in agriculture, as well as fast facts and statistics about ag products. You’ll definitely want to save these stories for speech material, agricultural issues topics and research papers.

Ever heard the sound a magazine makes when you “flop” it on your coffee table? That’s the flop factor, and the new FFA New Horizons has a good one. Your new magazine will have more pages and be printed on thicker, brighter paper – you’ll definitely notice a difference.

Coming to YOUR MAILBOX in early September!

flip through our

state

inserts!

FFA New Horizons state inserts keep YOU connected to what’s going on in your state or others.

• State FFA news and achievements • FFA member profiles • Career information • Meet state FFA officers

To learn about creating a state insert for your FFA association, contact Kim Newsom at knewsom@jnlcom.com.

August 2011

California FFA

PAGE

B

Outstanding Chapter

Check out our

website www.californiaffa.org

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F

D

PAGE

New State Officers

Past State Officers

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N

Chapter Scoops

What’s Inside This Issue Outstanding Chapter: Blythe FFA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-C New State Officers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-E Past State Officers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F 2011-2012 Conferences at a Glance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G Cal Poly President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G State FFA Finals Winners’ Photos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H-J State Conference Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . K 83rd California State FFA Conference: From Your Perspective . . . . . . . . . L-M Chapter Scoops . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . N-P

Outstanding Chapter: Blythe FFA Title Placeholder Subhead or Continued The Blythe FFA Chapter is located in the small farming community of Blythe along the California/Arizona border.

Agriculture is our major industry, with 93,798 acres of irrigated farm land in the Palo Verde Valley where farmers grow alfalfa, cotton, grass hay, wheat, citrus, produce and melons.

Palo Verde Valley High School, “Home of the Yellow Jacket,” is the only High School in the valley, with a student population of 882. We have one Ag teacher, Mr. Mullion, who took over the program 10 years ago and increased enrollment from 42 to 148 students.

With help from the Palo Verde Unified School District, parents, students, alumni and our community, the Blythe

FFA Chapter has built a new school farm, complete with a livestock lab that houses 76 livestock SAEs, a greenhouse and a 1-acre crop production lab. Last year a small tornado hit Blythe, ripping off 40 feet of roof from one of our barns. With a single phone call, our local ACE dealer opened his store and provided the materials needed to repair the roof.

FFA members, parents and alumni showed up to rebuild our barn that same night, displaying our strong ties with the community.

Our Chapter motto is “Success through opportunities, unity among members, building relationships within the community, and developing T.E.A.M. leadership skills” (TogetherEveryone-Achieves-More). Following

Chapter members at the county fair

B • CALIFORNIA FFA

our motto, the Blythe Chapter started out the year with a fundraiser for the local cancer foundation “Steps for the Cure.” FFA members collected donations by walking laps around the school track and hosted a snack shack, with all proceeds going to the cause.

Our FFA chapter was the highest earning team, raising $4,494.

In October, we held our first Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze as a fall fundraiser. We opened the corn maze to the community at no charge, sold over 900 pumpkins and applied the proceeds towards the purchase of our new livestock trailer.

That same month our chapter, in conjunction with California Women for Agriculture, hosted “Ag Days” at

Title Placeholder Outstanding Chapter Subhead or Continued Continued the high school farm. During the twoday event, 1,156 pre-school through first grade students from the various elementary schools in town learned about agriculture. They planted sweet peas, climbed in and out of John Deere tractors and a cotton picker, and visited the petting zoo with sheep, goats, chickens, heifer calf and a miniature horse. They also walked our corn maze and got to pick out a pumpkin for their classroom.

Members who attended the 83rd State FFA Conference stop to take a picture

Members getting ready for the big show at the county fair

The Colorado River Fair is the largest annual event in our community. This past year the Blythe FFA Chapter exhibited 96 livestock projects, 36 Ag mechanics projects, and 24 horticulture projects. The community was overwhelmingly supportive of our livestock auction, purchasing 216 animals for a gross sale of $403,000.

Blythe FFA has been very active in sectional and regional events. This year we participated in the Imperial Section Greenhand, MFE, ALA, So Cal, Imperial Section Leadership and State FFA Leadership Conferences.

Chapter members competed in O/C, Creed, BIG, Speech, Job Interview, Co-Op, Record book and Computers contests. This year we won sixth place in the vegetable judging contest at the L.A. County Fair.

Students proudly display their Ag Mechanics projects

Region: Southern Section: Imperial Section Advisor: Mark Mullion

Blythe FFA Members milking cows at Fresno State University

Sixth Place Vegetables FFA Judging Team at the LA County Fair

CALIFORNIA FFA • C

Up Close and Personal Meet your 2011-2012 State FFA Officer Team

President

Vice President

Secretary

Name: Nicole Billington

Name: Kenna Lewis

Name: Mary Steves

Birth Date: October 6

Birth Date: October 15

Birth Date: July 25

Chapter: Kingsburg FFA

Chapter: San Luis Obispo FFA

Brother’s and/or Sister’s Names and Ages: Allison (19) and Mitchell (16)

Chapter: Escalon FFA

Sisters’ Names and Ages: Caitlin (20) and Joelle (14)

Brother’s and/or Sister’s Names and Ages: Kristen (21) and Robert (17)

Favorites

Favorites

Favorites

Movie: Top Gun

Movie: Remember the Titans, 50 First Dates

Movie: A Walk to Remember

Book: The Harry Potter series

Food: Eggs and strawberries Book: The Notebook

Book: Pride & Prejudice

by Jane Austen

Color: Tiffany’s Blue

School Subject (other than ag): English

School Subject (other than ag): Psychology

Color: Purple

Color: Pink

Song: Fire and Rain by James Taylor

Saying: “Don’t lick your wounds, celebrate. The scars you bear are the signs of a competitor!”

Cartoon Character: Ariel – Little Mermaid

Song: What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong

Sport: Soccer

Cartoon Character: Minnie Mouse

Food: Strawberries

School Subject (other than ag): Math and Science Saying: “Action is character. If we never did anything, we would never be anybody.” – Carrey Mulligan

Cartoon Character: Winnie the Pooh Sport: Football

Hobbies: Reading, hiking, babysitting, investing in friendships

Food: Enchiladas

Hobbies: Rollerblading!

Saying: “The good you do today, people will often forget tomorrow – do good anyways.” – Mother Teresa

Sport: Golf (participant), Baseball (spectator)

Hobbies: Skiing, watching movies, laughing, talking in a British accent with friends

2006

2008

2007 2007-2008 2006-2007

NB – Attended first State Conference and elected to chapter office

D • CALIFORNIA FFA

KL – Competed in Creed JV – Attended first State Conference MS – Participate in Creed and BIG KL – Elected to Chapter and Section Office CH – Lost at State Creed Competition CK – Attended first State Conference

2008-2009

NB – Lost Regional Office Position MS – Elected to Chapter Office JV – Elected Regional Sentinel KL – Lost Regional Office Position CH – State Finalist for Prepared Public Speaking CH – Elected Regional President CK – Served as a Sectional Officer

Up Close and Personal Continued

Treasurer

Reporter

Sentinel

Name: Jacob Vazquez

Name: Clayton Kruse

Name: Chris Hudson

Birth Date: May 16

Birth Date: November 13

Birth Date: October 5

Chapter: West Valley FFA

Chapter: Bret Harte FFA

Brothers’ and/or Sister’s Names and Ages: Jessica (19), Travis (15) and Tommy (12)

Favorites

Chapter: Hemet FFA

Favorites Movie: Rio Bravo

Food: Grilled bone-in ribeye steak Book: Lonesome Dove

Movie: Remember The Titans

School Subject (other than ag): Economics

Food: Anything barbecued or deep fried

Color: Green

Book: Bible

School Subject (other than ag): Photoshop Imaging Color: Dark blue

Saying: “I can do everything through him who gives me strength” – Philippians 4:13 Song: My Sacrifice – Creed Cartoon Character: Winnie The Pooh

Brother’s and/or Sisters’ Names and Ages: Hannah (19), Elizabeth (14) and Edward (17)

Favorites Movie: Stepbrothers

Food: Steak and potatoes

Book: Brian’s Hunt by Gary Paulsin

Saying: “I strive to do more by 6:00 in the morning than most people do all day.”

School Subject (other than ag): History

Song: Amarillo by Morning

Saying: “Never do anything to embarrass yourself, your friends, your family or your team.”

Cartoon Character: Lucky Luke Sport: Football

Color: Blue

Song: Dream Big by Ryan Shupe and the Rubberband

Hobbies: Hunting, fishing, horseback riding

Cartoon Character: Tigger

Sport: Baseball, wrestling, water polo

Sport: Football

Hobbies: Camping, going to the beach, swimming, working

Hobbies: Cooking, playing sports and being with friends

2010

2009

2011

2009-2010 JV – State Champions in Parli-Pro • NB – Attended SLE KL – Won third place at the State Prepared Public Speaking Contest NB – Served on State Nominating Committee • MS – Attended SLE • KL – Attended WLC MS – Sixth place at State Job Interview Contest • CH – Lost at Regional Speaking Finals KL – Elected Regional President • CH – Elected Regional President CK – Was not slated for Region Office • CK – Won first in State Job Interview

2010-2011 JV – First trip to National Convention NB – Spent a year at Cal Poly, SLO ALL – Elected to serve YOU!

CALIFORNIA FFA • E

FINAL WORDS from Our 2010-2011 California State FFA Officer Family CA FFA – What are your plans following State FFA Office?

Vince: This upcoming year I will be attending Chico State with a major in Ag Education and a minor in Ag Communications.

Lindsey: I will be attending Modesto Junior College in the fall then transfer to Cal Poly SLO where I will major in Agriculture Business and minor in Biology.

Jackie: I plan to go back to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo where I am majoring in Recreation, Parks and Tourism Administration. I am very excited to see many of the FFA members I met throughout the state roaming the halls of the campus with me!

Ben: I am planning to attend California State University, Fresno!

Jessica: This fall, I will be attending CSU, Chico majoring in Agriculture Business.

Casey: I will be attending Modesto Junior College majoring in Crop Science with aspirations of entering the agricultural field as a licensed Pest Control Advisor.

CA FFA – What was your most memorable part about State FFA Conference?

Vince: My most memorable part of State Conference … gosh so much! Watching the members flood into the arena on Saturday night of Opening Session. It was incredible to see how much excitement and energy they had on the very first night, and it was something I felt was carried through the rest of the conference. Also, I really enjoyed listening to my teammates RAs; it was incredible. Just watching in awe as they delivered a motivating message that means so much to them and that inspired members across the state!

Lindsey: My favorite part of State Conference was watching the 4,000 members of CA FFA flood into Selland Arena, from the rafters for the Opening Session. Everyone was so pumped and excited! It motivated the six of us to give it our all!

Thanks for making 2011 State Conference the best experience the six of us could have possibly imagined! You are the best … and best of luck to the amazing new officer team ready to serve all of you!

Jackie: My most memorable part of State Conference would have to be hearing and seeing all of the support that California FFA provided us with at the end of each Retiring Address and session. It’s a kind of support like none other that I have experienced, and it is so greatly appreciated.

Ben: The most memorable part of state conference has to be standing up in the rafters watching all of the students rushing into Selland arena. It was extremely cool to see FFA members run laps around the stage! So awesome!

Jessica: This may sound cheesy, but my most memorable part about State Conference was hearing about how motivated the members left. It was so neat to be a part of something bigger than myself, where we had the opportunity to show them what the organization has to offer and how much they are capable of.

Casey: Rolling into Opening Session, hearing the entire arena erupt in the excitement of State Conference starting and thinking this can’t be happening right now!

CA FFA – Any last words for CA FFA members …

ALL: Thank you, California FFA one more time for this amazing opportunity that was granted to the six of us. Thank you for all the great memories throughout the state and throughout the year. Our team has heard many “thank you’s” since state conference, but we sincerely would like to thank YOU for the opportunity and for the great experience that we will never forget. When we began our year, we obviously realized that we would be helping each of you discover new opportunities and adventures, but we never realized the great amount that you would help us discover. Thank you.

F • CALIFORNIA FFA

2011-2012 Conferences at a Glance August 2011

NOVEMBEr 2011

9-10 19-20 27

1 2 3 5 12 16 17

Southern Region SOLS – Pomona San Joaquin SOLS – Exeter Central SOLS – Delta HS

SEPTEMBEr 2011 10-11 12 16-19 21-23 23-24 27-29

South Coast SOLC – Atascadero Greenhand Conference – UC Davis Superior Region COLC – Camp Tehama Greenhand Conference – Modesto North Coast Region COLC Greenhand Conference – Colusa

OCTOBER 2011 1-2 3 4-6 8-9 10 11 12-13 16-19 19-22 23-25

Central COLC – Denair HS Greenhand Conference – Red Bluff Greenhand Conference – Lodi South Coast COLC – Hollister HS Greenhand Conference – Porterville Greenhand Conference – Bakersfield Greenhand Conference – Paso Robles National FFA Convention Delegate Trip – Indianapolis National FFA Convention – Indianapolis Washington DC Education Tours – Washington DC

Greenhand Conference – Clovis East HS Greenhand Conference – Lemoore Greenhand Conference – Visalia Southern Region COLC – Indio San Joaquin Region COLC – Lemoore Greenhand Conference – El Capitan HS Greenhand Conference – Heritage HS

January 2012 6-7 13-14 20-21 27-28

MFE/ALA – Sacramento MFE/ALA – Ontario MFE/ALA – Redding MFE/ALA – Monterey

February 2012 10-11 17-18

MFE/ALA - Visalia MFE/ALA – Modesto

APRIL 2012 21-24

State FFA Leadership Conference – Fresno

California FFA members welcomed by Cal Poly’s President at State FFA Finals in San Luis Obispo. From left to right: Jackie Garcia, Past State Secretary, Vince Pellegri, Past State President, President Armstrong, Lindsey Anderson, Past State Vice President, Casey Erickson, Past State Sentinel, Jessica Vazquez, Past State Reporter and Ben Granholm, Past State Treasurer

Cal Poly’s President gives a warm welcome to California FFA members President Armstrong was a member of the Lyon County FFA Chapter in the state of Kentucky. He participated in numerous contests including extemporaneous public speaking and was on the Kentucky state winning team for meats judging. He had his fair share of leadership roles in the FFA as well. He served as Chapter Secretary and President, Regional President and as the Kentucky FFA State Secretary.

CALIFORNIA FFA • G

State FFA Finals Winners The Photos …

H • CALIFORNIA FFA

State FFA Finals Winners Continued

CALIFORNIA FFA • I

State FFA Finals Winners Continued

J • CALIFORNIA FFA

State Conference Results California FFA Award Winners Agri-Entrepreneurship and Agriscience Award Finalists Agri-Entrepreneurship Finalist – Jason Mendes, Modesto Agriscience Student Finalist – Mary Steves, Escalon Agriscience Teacher Finalist – Elizabeth Knapp, Atwater

Honorary State FFA Degree Recipients Randy and Teresa Anderson

Chris Hudson, Hemet Angie McClure, Santa Rosa

Dean McNeilly Scholarship – $1,000 Sponsored by Mr. Dean McNeilly

Megen Morales, Atwater-Buhach

Jennifer Bettencourt, Tulare

Rebekkah Morris-Tucker, Salinas

Jaimie Lynne Pettey Memorial Scholarship – $1,500 (one) and $750 Scholarships (two) Sponsored by The Jaimie Lynne Pettey Family

Derek Veenstra, Escalon Jerry T. Davis Honorary Scholarship – $1,000 Sponsored by California Association FFA Maddie Dunlap, Maxwell

John Boyes

Paul Freitas Memorial Scholarship – $750 Sponsored by Freitas Family

Jack Dewar

Dillon Szyper, Galt

Brad and Tamara Erickson

Hartford Insurance Company Scholarship $1,000 (one) and $500 Scholarships (two) Sponsored by Hartford Livestock Insurance

Charles Boyer

Danny and Katie Granholm Dan Lassanke Ed Pellegri Shelly Stepps Tom and Judy Vazquez Mike Zohns

Sylvia Bauer, Elk Grove Mabel W. Jacks Memorial Scholarship – $1,000 (five) Sponsored by The Jacks Foundation Aimee Bell, Fresno-Central

Outstanding Advisor

Josh Donnelly, Elk Grove

Alyssa Mangan, Elk Grove

Thomas Larson, Lemoore Kelsey King, Tulelake

State FFA Scholarships Awarded Jerry L. Biggs Memorial – $1,000 Sponsored by California Association FFA Nancy Jauregui, Buena Park Crop Services Scholarships (nine) – $1,000 Sponsored by Crop Services

Mary Steves, Escalon Byron J. McMahon Memorial Scholarship – $1,000 Sponsored by California Association FFA Jacob Vazquez, West Valley-Cottonwood

Jake Carlson, Elk Grove

Dorothy McMillan Memorial Scholarship – $1,000 (two) Sponsored by California Association FFA

Tom Hardesty, Elk Grove

Hadley Bickford, St. Helena

Chelsea Hoff, St. Helena

Keri Christine Luiz, Etna

Marshall Hoffman, Hollister

Honorary Award Recipients being recognized on stage

Lauren Roberts, Bakersfield-Highland Zenith Insurance Company Scholarship – $3,000 (two) and $2,000 (two) Scholarships Sponsored by Zenith Insurance Company and Zenith Agribusiness Solutions Philip Fagundes, Atwater-Buhach Sarena Silva, Tulare Anthony Toledo, Galt Patrick Wilke, Taft

State Star Awards Star in Ag Placement John Conant, East Nicolaus

Star in Agribusiness

Geostan Duffin, Strathmore

Star Farmer

Kyle Brem, Strathmore

Star Administrator Award Julie Synyard, St. Helena

Star Counselor

Julie Dunahoo, Nipomo

Star Reporter Award

Carolyn Schiber, Atwater CALIFORNIA CALIFORNIA FFA FFA •• K K

83rd California State FFA Conference: From Your Perspective From the North Coast Region …

Taylor Pratt, Fortuna FFA, Second year FFA member, First State Conference

CA FFA: How long did it take you to get to Fresno from your hometown? How was the trip to Fresno?

Taylor: It took us about nine hours! I had a lot of fun. In our chapter; there truly is never a dull moment. We blast our iPods in the vans and sing along to every song we know.

We stopped and took funny pictures on the side of the road and came up with the themes for our chapter officer speeches.

To pass the time, we also played the Gordon Truck game!

CA FFA: What session at State Conference was your favorite?

Taylor: Opening Session was the most highenergized, entertaining and fun-filled time I have ever experienced. State Conference really started with a bang and Opening Session got everyone pumped for the week.

I especially loved the state officer theme presentation and hearing thousands of members recite, “to practice brotherhood …”

After Opening Session, I knew the conference was going to be amazing!

CA FFA: Did you get to go on stage at State Conference?

Taylor: Yes, I did! I volunteered to be on the Courtesy Corp State Committee. During the last session, we got to go on stage and get recognized. It was exciting and nerveracking to be under spotlights in front of so many people!

CA FFA: What did you enjoy about the Career Show?

Taylor: My favorite part of the Career Show was going to every booth and learning something about each college. It was interesting to gain a “college perspective” from actual students. I loved the freebees from all of the booths. After going to the career show, I have a better idea on which colleges I’m interested in!

LL •• CALIFORNIA CALIFORNIA FFA FFA

From the Southern Region …

Leilani Solomon, Brawley FFA, Third year FFA member

From the Central Region …

Katy Ceres, Central Valley FFA, Third State Conference

CA FFA: How many State Conferences have you attended?

CA FFA: Did you compete in any contest in Fresno?

Leilani: I have attended two amazing FFA State Conferences.

Katy: Yes, I competed in Dairy Cattle Judging on Saturday at Fresno State University!

CA FFA: How long did it take you to get to Fresno from your hometown? Was your trip fun?

Leilani: We had a group of 14 members, and it took us eight very long hours! Yes, we had a fun trip because we were all very hyper and excited. We stopped along the way and toured a dairy and watch the birth of a calf right before our eyes. Before going home we wrote “BRAWLEY IS #1” on the van windows of other chapters within our section. Our section enjoys clean, friendly pranks with each other. It was a blast!

CA FFA: What was your most memorable moment while at State Conference?

Leilani: My most memorable moment was the Delegate Workshop. It was a great way to mingle with the other delegates, and I made many new friends.

CA FFA: What do you love about the California State FFA Conference?

Leilani: I love the Opening Session because everyone is excited and having a great time.

And it is always exciting to see what new ways the State Officers will start off the Opening Session. I enjoy talking with students from other parts of the state and asking them about their chapters and SAE. I am always surprised and inspired by their stories.

CA FFA: Did you enjoy the keynote speakers during the sessions?

Leilani: I really enjoyed hearing Josh Ship.

I felt most inspired when Josh Shipp gave his speech “don’t be average” … and a GOAT.

CA FFA: What was your most memorable moment while at State Conference?

Katy: The most memorable moment of State Conference was dancing around on the floor while simultaneously trying to check in all Central Region Delegates!

CA FFA: Did you meet anybody new?

Katy: New people I met, so many people!

Central Region Delegates were the people who I spent the most time with and was so happy to get to know them. I look forward to seeing them at upcoming regional events.

CA FFA: Did you feel really inspired at State Conference?

Katy: I was most inspired at State Conference when I was installed as a Regional Officer; to be able to serve the Central Region in the coming year is going to be so exciting and is truly an honor.

83rd California State FFA Conference: Continued From the South Coast Region …

Karina Salomon, Gonzales FFA, Second year FFA Member, Second State Conference

From the Superior Region …

Niquel Crawford, Butte Valley FFA, Second year FFA Member, First State Conference

From the San Joaquin Region …

Sarah Graves, O’Neals-Minarets FFA, Third year FFA Member, Second State Conference

CA FFA: What did you enjoy about the Glorina Concert?

CA FFA: How long did it take you to get to Fresno?

CA FFA: What did you like about the Career Show?

Karina: I enjoyed watching them perform, this is the first time I heard of Gloriana, so it was great to listen to them.

Niquel: It took our chapter 10 hours. Our chapter had fun on the way to Fresno because we were all excited and on the way back because we recalled all the fun things we had done.

Sarah: I liked that there were a lot of colleges from around the state and they gave out a lot of information. It helps a lot, especially since my senior year is approaching fast!

CA FFA: What do you love about State Conference?

Karina: I love the incredible energy the officers give to us, I love how you can make a conversation with anyone in a blue jacket, I love the suspense of installing new officers, but overall I love the inspirational moments.

CA FFA: What did you think of the Opening Session on Saturday night?

Niquel: I thought it was very exciting and made me look forward to the next sessions.

CA FFA: What State FFA Officer did you connect the most with?

Sarah: All of the State Officers made an effort to connect with everyone this year, but I would say the officer I connected with the most was probably Vince. Vince was someone I could always talk to, and he would listen no matter what. He was a great friend throughout the year, and I can’t wait to see what he does in the future!

CA FFA: Did you meet anybody new?

CA FFA: What was your most memorable moment while at State Conference?

Karina: Yes, I met Milly from King City FFA while standing in line for lunch. We started a conversation, and we ended up having lunch together and talking about our chapters.

Niquel: The most memorable thing was the Gloriana concert. I enjoyed their music and had fun hanging out with my chapter outside of the FFA uniform.

CA FFA: Did you gain anything from attending State Conference?

CA FFA: Did you see anybody from your chapter get recognized on stage?

Karina: Yes, I gained a lot. I felt most inspired during Jacquelynne Garcia’s retiring address entitled “Why Not?” Now every time I am too scared to try something I just think, why not?

Niquel: Yes, our chapter saw Kady Porterfield on stage receiving the Superior Region National Chapter Award, and Tiffani Yeager was also on stage for the Ag License Plate Award.

Sarah: The newest person who I met at State Conference was Seanna Griffiths from the Nevada Union FFA Chapter. I met Seanna on Thursday when I was able to come down and watch the Public Speaking Competition. We watched the Prepared Speaking Contest, and got to talking afterwards! Seanna is a great person, and it has been fun keeping in contact with her since convention!

CA FFA: What do you look forward to about next State Conference?

CA FFA: What did you think of the State FFA Officers’ Retiring Addresses?

Niquel: I look forward to meeting new people and all the new and fun memories we will make.

CA FFA: Was there a person who you really enjoyed meeting?

Sarah: Listening to their Retiring Addresses was very inspiring. The one who really hit home for me this year was Ben’s RA. Everyone needs to find that one thing that they are passionate about and pursue it.

You have to recognize that your interests or passions might change, but no matter what they are you have to embrace them and pursue them!

CA FFA: What do you look forward to about next State Conference?

Sarah: This year I competed in Advanced Parliamentary Procedure, and my team made it to the semi-finals. Parli-Pro is definitely my favorite FFA competition!

So next year, I am excited to hopefully compete again in the State Parliamentary Procedure Contest again!

CALIFORNIA FFA • M

Chapter Scoops La Habra FFA Written by Manuel Magdaleno La Habra FFA ended the year with amazing events that helped their chapter and community. La Habra FFA, along with Fullerton FFA, visited the great parks of Irvine and worked together to volunteer at the Feed America program in Irvine. Members got a chance to bond with each other and help out the community for those in need of food. Participants learned about the great program that has helped many people throughout America who struggle to buy food. La Habra also hosted their annual Plant & Bake Sale. Students got a chance to sell their SAE Plant projects in this event, as well as raise money for their chapter.

On this same day, La Habra FFA also held the annual Orange Section Greenhand Softball Tournament. Members from all over the section attended and finished off the year eating hot dogs and playing softball. The members bonded and said they had a blast this year, and are excited for this new year to come.

Oakdale FFA Written by Lauren Rivera, Chapter Reporter The Oakdale FFA Chapter installed their new officer team for the 2011-2012 school year at their annual awards banquet. The officers wasted no time getting busy and making plans. The team is very excited about the upcoming year and started putting together ideas for fundraisers. Earning proceeds to help with members to attend the National Convention in Indianapolis in October is top priority. The officers also discussed creating T-shirts. The team had an eventful officer retreat at Lake Tahoe where they discussed this year’s theme, goals and reviewed the POA. During the school year, the officer team meets weekly at lunch time to discuss the upcoming events and activities. We are all looking forward to having a great year!

Gridley FFA Written by: Fraine Cox, Chapter Reporter The Gridley FFA thrives on its ability to help our community. Two FFA members showed their willingness to help when they completely redesigned the playground for the Gridley Head Start pre-school. Monique Zendejas and D.J Nunez spent countless hours seeking donations for their project. In the end, they gathered $1,500 for the playground. After all that hard work, Monique, D.J and numerous other volunteers including FFA members, Richard

N • CALIFORNIA FFA

Benish, Nash Benish, and Andrew Goldfarb, spent hours pulling weeds and planting flowers. They built planters and laid sod. These members showed the pre-school kids and their parents that the FFA is more than just an organization that raises animals. The kids’ education did not stop there; it was furthered with their visit to the Gridley High School Ag Department. They saw all the different plants and a homemade bridge in our greenhouse, and our recently created barn. In the barn, they saw all the numerous projects Gridley FFA members have been working on, ranging from river plants to pigs. It is safe to say those kids not only received a new playground but also the lesson of a lifetime.

Kerman FFA Written by Emily Hopkins, Chapter Reporter The Kerman FFA Chapter participated in the first Kerman Relay for Life on May 14 and raised $831 to help find a cure for cancer.

The Kerman Relay for Life had a goal to honor 24 survivors, have 24 teams and raise $24,000. With the help of the Kerman FFA, they surpassed their goal with a total of 60 survivors honored, 46 teams and $63,500 raised with money still coming in. The 24-hour relay started at 9 a.m. and included many activities, themed laps, and special ceremonies honoring survivors and celebrating the memories of those who passed away due to cancer. Robert Helmuth II team captain, led the FFA team, which included Emily Hopkins, Soledad Vera, Danielle Velez, Ross Helmuth, Cody Guidry, Yesenia Ramirez, Ramon Chavez III, Deanna Pizana, Stacey Escamilla, Patricia Sepulveda and FFA Chapter Advisor Dannie Groppetti.

It truly was a great 24 hours to experience.

Esparto FFA National FFA Week is always a big week for Esparto FFA. The annual Donkey Basketball Game concluded the events of National

Chapter Scoops Continued FFA Week, which was held Thursday evening. Hundreds of family and friends attended this year’s Donkey Basketball Game to support both our contestants and cheer on those who were playing on the court. Our Donkey Basketball teams this year consisted of Seniors and Freshman vs. Juniors and Sophomores. During half time, all of the contestants were asked to make their way to the floor of the gym to be introduced to the crowd, and to find out who was the 2011-2012 Esparto FFA Sweetheart. Although not everyone can win the Sweetheart Competition, Esparto FFA couldn’t help recognizing Hannah Sheehan, who over the course of National FFA Week managed to raise over $1000 for the Esparto FFA Chapter.

She was awarded her own FFA jacket, sash and bouquet. Esparto FFA’s 2011-2012 FFA Sweetheart was Makayla Shera! The Donkey Basketball game resumed shortly thereafter, and the Freshman and Senior team dominated this year’s game!

Orland FFA Written by Tyler Batchelder, Chapter Reporter The Orland FFA Chapter had their end-of-the-year awards banquet and officer elections in May. Awards were given to members in the areas of teams, leadership, scholarship, points and star members.

During the meeting we also conducted speeches and elections, and said hello to the new officer team and farwell to the old. The new officer team was elected: Scott Batchelder, Tyler Batchelder, John Becerra, Sarah Gomes, Alison Duckworth, Colby Snyder and Kacie Farrell. We are looking forward to an exciting and productive year.

This year at state convention we are proud to recognize Brandon Wilkins for being our first chapter member in the state FFA band.

Tom Pedrozo was a state finalist in the extemporaneous speaking contest and Bonnie Glenn and Brandin Jones were our two state proficiency finalists. Orland FFA definitely had a good showing this year!

Fillmore FFA Chapter Written by Brooke Aguirre, Chapter Reporter The 2011 World Ag Expo, held in Tulare, Calif., was more than 2 million square feet of land covered in agriculture machinery and equipment! Fillmore FFA started the fun-filled day bright and early as we loaded the bus along with Santa Paula FFA at 6 a.m. A couple of hours later we found ourselves listening to Michael Peterson, a motivational speaker who came to talk to the FFA members, explain that “life is full of uncertainty” and we should “deal with the uncertainty without hesitation.” After the motivational speaker, we were given the chance to roam through the show. We saw many different types of machinery like John Deere tractors, tillers and implements. Students also got to see Fillmore member Brandon

Pina test drive various tractors. Don’t worry folks, they checked his driver’s license. All the business representatives were excited to see the 2,000 FFA members in attendance. The World Ag Expo was definitely a great way to show students just how many job opportunities agriculture has to offer. The Fillmore and Santa Paula FFA chapters enjoyed their visit to the World Ag Expo and look forward to attending the event again this coming February of 2012!

La Habra FFA Written by Raquel Missbrenner, Chapter President Some people are used to a traditional bake sale where people bring in their yummy, homemade baked goods to sell for profit. Well La Habra FFA had something different in mind. In an attempt to raise money for the La Habra FFA Chapter, Chapter Sentinel Manuel

Magdaleno found ingredients for something a bit more interesting: a pie throw! But here’s the catch: La Habra’s own Ag teachers and officer team would be getting the pies in their faces! Members paid $2.00 for a tin full of whipped cream to throw at the teacher or officer of their choice. Mr. Johnson? Mrs. Rojas? Mr. Gentry? Members really enjoyed throwing pies in the faces of their beloved teachers; more so than their officers. This fundraising event really whipped itself into good use.

Los Banos FFA Written by Toni Silva, Chapter Reporter The Los Banos FFA was well represented at the Sectional Super Saturday speech contest. We would like to congratulate all students who competed at Super Saturday. This year the competition was extremely tough, and Los Banos FFA did and excellent job. The results are as follows: In Creed, fifth place went to Colleen Allen and seventh place to Elizabeth Atkins. In Prepared Public Speaking, first place went to Antoinette Machado. In Extemporaneous Speaking, fourth place went to Jaime Brown. Lastly, in Job Interview

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Chapter Scoops Title Placeholder Continued Subhead or Continued

Alyssa Melo placed first. Antoinette, Jaime and Alyssa will move to the regional preliminary finals in February in Galt.

In addition the Sectional Project Competition banquet was held, and Los Banos FFA did a fantastic job! Nick Gilardi received a gold award as well as a scholarship. Alyssa Melo, Caitlin Lopes, Dustin Helmer, Mackenzie Hurley, Derek Neves and Jared Price participated as well. Also, Jenna Gilardi and Paul Borba received silver awards. We would like to congratulate them for their hard work and dedication towards their project!

Eureka FFA Written by Ehlana Churchill, Chapter Reporter Community service has been big this past school year for Eureka FFA. So far, Eureka FFA has helped at a local Bocce Ball event, Socks for Soldiers, Thanksgiving basket, Angel Tree gift, Toys for Tots and so much more.

Our chapter loves to spread the word of Ag and FFA! Hopefully his new school year will be as successful as the beginning of last year. Another big day for six of our chapter members and Mrs. Lovfald was October 18, 2010. They boarded a plane along with 63 other members from our section to attend the 83rd annual FFA National Convention!

These members toured some great places, attended some spectacular sessions and heard some amazing motivational speakers. Eureka FFA also had their annual Dutch Lottery fundraiser, which consisted of a tri-tip dinner and homemade gifts made by Ag students that are raffled off.

This year’s event was so successful, we had more than 80 projects, great food and an amazing time. We are excited for the new school year and events to come!

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august 2011

ILLINOIS ASSOCIATION FFA FFA in the Spotlight Meet Your 2010-2011 Illinois State FFA President, John Edgar | F

Awards | E

State CDE Results | B

Check out our

website

Officers’ Tracks | G What’s Inside This Issue State CDE Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-C Proficiency Winners and State STAR Candidates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D Award Announcements and American Degree Candidates . . . . . . . . . . . . . E Meet John Edgar, State FFA President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F Officers’ Tracks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G

www.illinoisffa.org

Officers’ Future Plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H

Title holder State CDE Results State Parliamentary Procedure CDE

State Horticulture CDE

Top Teams

Glenbrook South

Top 5 Teams:

Paxton-Buckley-Loda

Paxton-Buckley-Loda

Highland

Valmeyer

Seneca

Webber-Bluford

Clifton Central

Byron

Newton

Southwestern

Nashville

Eureka

Top Chairperson:

Top 10 Individuals:

Southwestern

Monica Jarboe, Paxton-Buckley-Loda

Monica Gunther, Glenbrook South

Top 10 Individuals:

Top Secretary:

Samantha Bielanski, Glenbrook South

Kane Austin, Mt. Vernon

Jacob Meisner, Southwestern

Joanna Kim, Glenbrook South

Top 5 Floor Members:

Sean Tietz, Glenbrook South

Top 5 Teams:

Jacob Franke, Valmeyer

Elim Jeong, Glenbrook South

Linnea Leonard, Mendota

Jennifer Boberg, Paxton-Buckley-Loda

Hannah Teske, Paxton-Buckley-Loda

Seth Strom, Galva

Abby Hopkins, Waterloo

Lucas Roberts, Farmington

Jacob Meisner, Southwestern

Dallas Glazik, Paxton-Buckley-Loda Monica Jarboe, Paxton-Buckley-Loda

OTO FINISH HERE

BB •• ILLINOIS ILLINOIS FFA FFA

State Livestock CDE – Reasons Division

Daniel Ammann, Highland Daniel Leman, Eureka Brenna Houseworth, Webber-Bluford Jacob Lidy, Newton Erica Marlow, Webber-Bluford Dylan Rutz, Highland Rebekah Ellis, Webber-Bluford Miranda Shafer, Webber-Bluford Logan Honegger, Prairie Central

State CDE Results Continued State Livestock CDE – Non-Reasons Division Top 5 Teams: Charleston Taylorville Mt. Pulaski West Central Monmouth-Roseville

Top 10 Individuals: Jake Bloomberg, Abingdon Tyler Hoeman, Charleston Jenna Rae McHenry, PORTA Jacob Schroch, Charleston Taylor Scherer, East Richland Mason Fullerton, West Central Zachary Benson, Farmington Robby Meeker, Hartsburg-Emden Austin Betzold, Nokomis Gage Campbell, Windsor

State Dairy Judging CDE Top 5 Teams: Prairie Central Cissna Park Greenville Eureka Wesclin

Top 10 Individuals: Joshua Laesch, Greenville Naomi Knapp, Prairie Central Jonathan Weekley, Wesclin Todd Irwin, Lincoln Taylor Redeker, Cissna Park Charlie Brummer, Newton Luke Schaffer, Prairie Central Kaitlyn Redeker, Cissna Park Brett Woker, Greenville Timothy Wallace, Pana

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Proficiency Award Winners and State STAR Candidates “Congratulations to all Proficiency Award Winners!”

Proficiency Award Winners

Agricultural Communications: Olivia Harris, Heyworth Agricultural Education: Anthony Killion, Orion Ag Mechanics Design & Fabrication: Hank Greenwalt, Carlinville Ag Mechanics Energy Systems: Patricia Justison, Hillsboro Ag Mechanics Repair & Maintenance – Ent.: Austin Potthast, Greenville Ag Mechanics Repair & Maintenance – Placement: Austin Keck, Mascoutah Agricultural Processing: Mark Girone, Midland Agricultural Sales – Ent.: Jacob Frank, Waterloo Agricultural Sales – Placement: Jack Plunk, Blue Ridge Agricultural Services: Chris Steppig, Waterloo Beef Production – Ent.: Seely Sayre, Triopia Beef Production – Placement: Eric Barry, Liberty Dairy Production – Ent.: Taylor Redeker, Cissna Park Dairy Production – Placement: Jacob Meisner, Southwestern Diversified Ag Production: William Henert, Ashton-Franklin Center Diversified Crop Production – Ent.: Michael Clark, Woodland Diversified Crop Production – Placement: Matthew Durbin, Shelbyville Diversified Horticulture: Kyle Jones, Marissa Diversified Livestock Production – Ent.: Valerie Erickson, ROWVA Diversified Livestock Production – Placement: Devin Bauman, Nokomis

Equine Science – Ent.: Kelsey Davis, Heyworth

Vegetable Production: John Osborne, Peotone

Equine Science – Placement: Cayla Harner, Goreville

Veterinary Medicine: Elizabeth Collins, Minooka

Fiber and/or Oil Crop Production: Jonathan Griffel, Gillespie

Wildlife Production & Management: Megan Bloemer, Heyworth

Floriculture: Neil Laumbattus, New Athens

State STAR Candidates

Food Science & Technology: Alexis Raybon, CHAS Food Service: Lane Kreiling, Illini Central Forage Production: Joel McDonald, Seneca Forest Management & Products: Wilson Estheimer, Fairfield Fruit Production: Molly Christ, Elmwood Grain Production –Ent.: Joe Bloome, Morrisonville Grain Production – Placement: Blake Pearson, Mt. Carmel Home and/or Community Development: Darren Riskedal, Somonauk-Leland-Sandwich Landscape Management: Jake Vancil, Bushnell Prairie City Nursery Operations: Kimberlee Gerardy, Stillman Valley Outdoor Recreation: Hans Vik, Midland Poultry Production: Peter Gutjahr, Nashville Safety: Dustin Bingel, Marissa

District 2 – Alexis Raybon, CHAS District 4 – Lanae Ringler, Taylorville Star in Ag Placement:

District 1 – Molly Christ, Elmwood District 2 – Jason Paarlberg, Manteno District 3 – Julie Sauls, Highland District 4 – Travis Denius, Oakwood District 5 – Aaron Timmermann, Central (Breese) Star in Agribusiness:

District 1 – Kimberlee Gerardy, Stillman Valley District 2 – Kristofer Manhart, Tri-Point District 3 – Matt Norton, Bushnell-Prairie City District 4 – Brock Dunaway, Shelbyville

Sheep Production: Jason Johnstone, Olney

District 5 – Blake Essington, Central (Breese)

Small Animal Production & Care: Laurel Plumer, Farmington

District 1 – Cody Blunier, Midland

Star Farmer:

Specialty Animal Production: Alex Musial, Nashville

District 2 – Michael Clark, Woodland

Specialty Crop Production: Cody Blunier, Midland

District 4 – Sam Brumleve, Blue Ridge

Electrical Technology: Bryce Erbes, Amboy

Swine Production – Ent.: Kane Austin, Mt. Vernon

Emerging Ag Technology: Kevin Schabacker, Rochelle

Swine Production – Placement: Zach Whitebread, West Carroll

Environmental Science & Natural Resource Management: Katherine Schmierbach, Marissa

Turf Grass Management: Brock Dunaway, Shelbyville

D • ILLINOIS FFA

Star in Agri-science: District 1 – Kevin Schabacker, Rochelle

District 3 – Jonathan Griffel, Gillespie District 5 – Chisum Kirby, Goreville

Award Announcements and American Degree Candidates Honorary State Degrees Aaron Heartt

Mike Delligatti

Jay Solomonson

Kevin Brannan

Lucille Shaw

James Barnes

Danette Barnes

John D. Edgar

Nancy Edgar

Roland Ekstrand

Catherine Ekstrand

Kraig Krause

Lynn Curry

Tom Merz

Mark Gill

Michelle Gill

Keith “Doc” Patterson

Narlyn Nelson

Rod Stoll

Richard Geubert

Jason Emmert

Aaron Heinzmann

David Mouser

Michelle Sullivan

Charlotte Sarao-Gibson

Richard Daley

Lara Donovan

Curt Sinclair

Sarah Song

Mike Hutjens

Lucas Allen

American

STAR Candidates

American Degree Candidates

Alicia Pool, Bluffs Kathryn Brannan, Carrollton

Adam Herwig, Ashton-Frankin Center Rachel Rahn, Chadwick Milledgeville Robin Etnyre, Oregon Cody Koch, Rochelle Jade Glendenning, Stillman Valley

Ted Ballard, Greenfield Josh Clark, Hartsburg-Emden Michael Paulsmeyer, PORTA Krista Raymond, Highland Tiffany Phillips, Jerseyville

Bethany Myelle, Stillman Valley

Kayla Burgener, Central A&M

Dana DeSutter, AlWood

Kaitlyn Zindel, Central A&M

Donna McCune, Bureau Valley

Elise Krause, Cerro Gordo

Brandon LeSage, Kewanee

Ella Herges, Paxton-Buckley-Loda

Andrew Smith, Sherrard Jeremiah Shaner, Stark County Kayla Hyett, Mercer County Jennifer Lincoln, Mercer County Katharine Girone, Midland McKennon Biers, Mendota

Shannon Breen, Tuscola Ida Hand, Nokomis, Jacob Bough, Charleston Justin Thomas, Charleston Kimberly Dhom, Newton

Heather Kiner, Mendota

Katlyn Pieper, Stewardson-Strasburg

Kyle Rod, Mendota

Emily Marlow, Bluford

Thomas Warhurst, Somonauk-Leland-Sandwich

Cody Gill, Nashville

Jake Ralph, Pontiac Ashley Luhman, Cissna Park

Erika Laumbattus, New Athens Amy Burns, Valmeyer

Calvin Lynch, Cissna Park

Hayden Byars, Cisne

Dustin Reetz, Cissna Park

Kate Pond, Cisne

Ellie Bretzman, Clifton Central

Amy Britton, North Clay

Tyler Hinspeter, Herscher

Nicholas Boehl, Olney

Lauren Wells, Herscher

Corey Steber, Olney

Brian Hills, Tri-Point Meredith Brinkman, Liberty Alexea Neisen, Liberty Sarah Sprague, Payson

Trevor Shreve, Wayne City Dustin Childers, Goreville Jamie Maze, Goreville

Adam Tallcott, Unity (Mendon)

Jamie Gravatt, Marion

John Roskamp, Warsaw

John Edgar, Trico

Kiersten Dorethy, West Prairie

Caroline Bremer, Vienna

Star Ag Placement: Corey Steber, Olney

Star Ag Business: Calvin Lynch, Cissna Park

Star Farmer: Brian Hills, Tri-Point

ILLINOIS FFA • E

Meet Your 2010-2011 State FFA President – John Edgar A candle loses nothing by lighting another candle, so just imagine how bright the world would be if each of us spent our lives sharing our light rather than hiding the truth that we’ve been given.

This year has been an incredible opportunity to see so many remarkable FFA members across the state sharing their light and inspiring others to do the same. I have been blessed to meet so many of these amazing people, and I am glad to call them my friends. Whether it’s volunteering time to help in the local community or just serving as mentors, FFA members truly embrace a life of leadership fueled by their passions.

On one of my short visits home, I decided to drive up to the top of the tallest hill on our farm and just look at the stars. It was a clear crisp night, and the stars were out in full force. For a while, I laid there just thinking of all the things that had been going on in my life. Before long, my short attention span began taking over, and I was soon marveling at the stars and how brightly they shone. I was in awe of the countless glimmers of light that filled the night sky. It’s crazy to think that these tiny glimmers of light are actually giant suns in other universes. From light-years away, they still shine their light on the darkest nights.

While we can’t radiate light waves for billions of miles, each of us still has the potential to shine even in the darkest night. By doing what we love, fueling the fire inside of us with our passions, and doing it with sincerity and integrity, we shine a light for those around us that can inspire and lead others to do the same. We live in a world where many people choose to conform rather than stand out. They compromise their integrity and destroy their reputation, which then dims the light inside of them. Others choose to make their decisions based on what other people think, hiding their own light in the shrouds of demoralizing actions. And as more and more individuals choose this route, their glimmer of light is taken out of the night sky until few are left to light the way and guide those who are lost.

I am blessed with an amazing group of friends and family who have continually given me hope and strength to make it through those dark nights in life. It is my hope that each of you can find that group of individuals and never let go.

Illinois FFA, thank you for the opportunity to serve you this year, and as you go about your lives in the coming year, be sure to let your light shine!

Yours in Blue & Gold,

John C. Edgar

F • ILLINOIS FFA

“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people …” Galatians 6:9-10

Officers’ Tracks

Agriculture Legislative Day – March 9, 2011 On March 9 blue jackets from across the state of Illinois gathered at the State Capitol in Springfield, Ill. Throughout the day, FFA members assembled and delivered commodity baskets and boxed lunches to the Illinois legislators and office holders.

John had the chance to speak to the Illinois Senate and was also introduced to the House of Representatives. It was a great day; thank you to everyone for all of your support for agriculture!

GROWMARK Inc. Board Meeting – March 17, 2011 On March 17 the Major State Officer Team attended the GROWMARK Inc. board meeting. It was a nice opportunity for the State Officer Team to eat lunch with the board. They were able to attend part of the meeting and highlight their year as State Officers and future plans. We would like to thank GROWMARK Inc., for their support and also thank the board for their time.

Farm Bureau Youth Conference (FBYC) – April 5-6, 2011 On April 5 and 6 more than 500 FFA members, advisors, and guests gathered in Springfield at the Crowne Plaza for the annual Farm Bureau and Affiliates Youth Conference. The members participated in various events such as exciting power sessions, an FFA Dance, a team activity, and reflections by the major state officer team. We would like to send out a special thanks to Illinois Farm Bureau, GROWMARK Inc., Country Financial Services, IAA Credit Union and Prairie Farms Dairy for sponsoring this event!

April State Officer Meeting – April 15-16, 2011 On April 15 and 16 the major state officers along with the 25 Section Presidents met in Bloomington, Ill. for their April State Officer Meeting. The meeting took place and was sponsored by Pioneer; we would like to say thank you for allowing us to use your facilities. They spent Friday and Saturday finalizing information for the 83rd State FFA Convention.

It was nice for the team to spend some time together as the year is quickly drawing to an end.

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Officers’ Future Plans John Edgar, State FFA President will be returning to southern Illinois for a summer full of working on the farm, trips with church and friends, and preparing for college in the fall. He will be attending Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, majoring in Agribusiness Economics while also studying Plant and Soil Science and Agricultural Education.

His future plans include continuing to work with youth and getting involved in management at a local agricultural business.

Jake Ekstrand, State FFA Vice-President is going to be heading back home to enjoy time with family and friends.

He already has his calendar packed with places to travel and visit. Hopefully, he will find some time to catch a cattle show or two with his brother. Jake is attending the University of Illinois this fall and plans to major in Agricultural Education.

Morgan Ott, State FFA Reporter will return back to her home community and enjoy spending her summer

working, catching up with friends and family, and taking summer classes. In the fall, she will return back to Heartland Community College to finish her prerequisites and will then transfer to a Nursing School in Illinois. She hopes to become a Registered Nurse in the Pediatric or OB department at a local hospital.

Cody Gill, State FFA Secretary is going to enjoy his summer once he hangs up his jacket in June. He is hopefully going to work at the Washington County jail and major in Criminal Justice at Kaskaskia College in Central Illinois. After he receives his associate degree, he will either become a police officer or transfer to SIU Carbondale and get a bachelor’s degree in Forestry. He will then either become a conservation officer, game warden or police officer.

Jeffrey Barnes, State FFA Treasurer will spend his summer hard at work. He will keep himself busy operating a

custom baling business, mowing yards for local community members and working at Wedron Silica Sand. He will attend Joliet Junior College and transfer to a university to earn a double major in Agriculture Business and Agronomy. One day he would like to own and operate a large farm.

Special Thanks!

John, Jake, Morgan, Cody and Jeff would like to thank all of the Illinois FFA members and advisors who made our year of service so eventful, interesting, and enjoyable. We would also like to say thank you to the Illinois FFA State Staff and Administrative Assistants.

It is because of YOU that we were able to fulfill our responsibilities and make ever-lasting memories this past year!

H • ILLINOIS FFA