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new horizons l o g o n at f fa n at i o n . f fa . o r g
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the magazi ne of the n ational ffa orga nization | April 2 011
All-American
Quads
Zook quadruplets make FFA history
11
Fun Facts about U.S. Money
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ffa
Volume 58 Number 4
new horizons
April 2011
®
Contents
The magazine of the National FFA Organization
Kim Newsom HOLMBERG jessy yancey Julie woodard Kristy Meyer RAVEN PETTY JESSICA MOZO Christina Carden Janine maryland, KRIS SEXTON, VIKKI WILLIAMS Chandra bradshaw, Lance conzett, Michele niccore, marcus snyder jeffrey s. otto Jeff adkins, Brian McCord todd bennett, antony boshier Yancey BOND Richard Stevens Alison hunter Tori Hughes CHRIS DUDLEY Cindy Hall Kristy duncan Katie Middendorf krystin lemmon, Patricia Moisan Diana guzman, maria mcfarland, shelly miller, Lisa Owens Gary Smith Keith harris Ray Langen todd potter, Carla Thurman Casey Hester Teree Caruthers Mark Forester Natasha Lorens
Editor Associate Editor FFA Publications Manager FFA Communications 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 Integrated Media Manager Controller Sales Support Manager 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
F or advertising information, contact Tori Hughes, (800) 333-8842, ext. 281, or e-mail thughes@jnlcom.com. 2010-2011 National FFA Officers riley pagett, ok Landan schaffert, CO Tiffany rogers, mi wyatt dejong, SD 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, will waidelich
12 cover story
President Secretary Eastern Region Vice President Central Region Vice President Southern Region Vice President Western Region Vice President 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 Robert B. Calvin Agriculture Teacher/USDE, MO Wilbur Chancellor State Supervisor, MS Keith Cox FFA Executive Secretary/USDE, SC Joel Larsen State Supervisor, MN 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.
All-American Quads Zook quadruplets make history by simultaneously earning American FFA Degrees
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Scrapbook
4
FFA Faces
A History of Agricultural Heritage Since 1928, FFA evolves to meet industry needs
Read news, jokes and more.
Learn about members’ achievements.
10
National Officer Q & A
11
Cool Careers
18
Your Money
20
Back Talk
Meet National Secretary Landan Schaffert.
Consider five dog-friendly jobs.
Impress your friends with interesting money facts.
Meet a Wisconsin alumna who advocates for agriculture.
2
11
18
Please recycle this magazine
On the Cover Primmer, John, Malena and Lucia Zook of Flora, Ind. Photo By Jeff Adkins
ffanation.ffa.org
FFA
New Horizons
1
FFA scrapbook
Express yourself
Just Joking Why is the letter A like a flower? A bee (B) comes after it! Why is everyone so tired on April 1? Because they’ve just finished a long 31-day March! What flowers grow on faces? Tulips (Two-lips)!
SAEs on Display
Can you imagine joining together with students from eight other schools to form your FFA chapter? Members in the Granite Mountain FFA Chapter in Utah know all about it. This chapter boasts more than 250 members, made up of nine high schools and several junior highs across the Salt Lake Valley. Most FFA members live in the city, so they keep their supervised agricultural experience programs (SAEs) of goats, cattle, sheep, swine and poultry at Wheeler Historical Farm and Taylorsville Heritage Farms. By maintaining their SAEs at public farms, the members learn to educate visitors about FFA and agriculture. Learn more about the chapter at www.gmffa.blogspot.com.
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FFA
New Horizons
The Ribbon Quilt When Marti Lance from Rittman, Ohio, heard about a ranching accident that took the life of 9-year-old Rowdy Hayes Smallwood, she wanted to do something to help. A longtime quilter, she knew a wall hanging would be an appropriate tribute to the little cowboy from Wyoming, but wanted to connect it to his love for showing horses and goats. She called out to FFA and 4-H members through Facebook, who sent hundreds of ribbons from livestock fairs that she then used to make a wall hanging for Rowdy’s parents. Learn more at www.lancequilts.com. ffanation.ffa.org
The Axe Factor The Wamogo High School FFA Chapter in Connecticut recently started what is believed to be the first-ever FFA Lumberjack Team. Before the invention of chain saws, feller bunchers and other modern logging equipment, lumberjacks were men who harvested and transported trees for processing into lumber and other forest products. Competitions held across the country acknowledge the rich history of forestry and logging and keep agricultural traditions alive. The Wamogo FFA team participated in their first competitions this past fall at two local fairs in Goshen and Bethlehem, Conn. Events included the axe throw, twoperson crosscut saw and log roll. The members plan to add the Jack and Jill crosscut and the bow saw in future years. Team members are Patrick Lucas, Hunter Garlasco, Erik Bagley, Matt Squires, Devin Savoy and Kimi Sekorski.
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. Want an easy way to send your story? E-mail a photo, your story and contact information to newhorizons@ffa.org. All photos need to be in color and a minimum of 1 MB in size. Or, mail to: FFA New Horizons P.O. Box 68960 Indianapolis, IN 46268 The Los Lunas FFA Chapter from New Mexico hosted its second annual corn maze on the school’s 11-acre farm last fall. More than 300 people, including two elementary school groups, came to the event, finding their way through the one-acre maze.
ffanation.ffa.org
FFA
New Horizons
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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 Nominations. You can nominate yourself or another current FFA member.
Alexis Smith
Describe
Fill out the form to tell us about you – your FFA involvement, school activities, future plans and more.
MS
Chapter: North Pike FFA
OK
Chapter: Chattanooga FFA
MN
Chapter: Grand Rapids FFA
Torey, a high school sophomore, is currently serving as FFA chapter reporter and raises poultry for his SAE. Last year, he helped his all-freshman agricultural issues team win second in the state career development event, and he placed third individually in the fish and wildlife CDE the same year. Torey hopes to become a conservation officer one day.
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FFA
New Horizons
MD
Nicole, a high school senior and chapter officer for three years, works to encourage more students to join FFA and encourage current members to become more active. She has been a member of state-winning dairy judging and dairy foods teams and has enjoyed raising and showing Brown Swiss dairy cattle as her supervised agricultural experience program (SAE).
Maddie Kramer
WA
Chapter: Stanwood FFA
This high school senior currently serves as his chapter’s president and shows steers and lambs for his SAE. One of Dakota’s proudest FFA moments was making the sale at the Oklahoma Youth Expo. He also plays baseball and basketball for his school and is active on the student council. After high school, Dakota plans to major in animal science at Oklahoma State University.
Torey Belich
Nicole Hood Chapter: Middletown FFA
Alexis currently serves as her chapter’s vice president. In 20092010, she served as student advisor, and during her FFA experience has been involved with FFA Creed speaking, tool identification, Envirothon and the FFA legislative breakfast. A high school senior, Alexis is enjoying her last year of FFA involvement and looking forward to starting the next chapter of her life.
Dakota Quickle
Upload
Find a great photo of yourself – head and shoulders photos work best – and upload it as part of the nomination form.
Maddie, a high school sophomore, has participated in the bestinformed Greenhand and rituals competitions within Washington FFA and raised swine for her SAE. She is also involved in trapshooting and hopes to participate in agricultural sales, agricultural issues and meats judging. At home, Maddie helps in her family’s winery and enjoys horseback riding.
Alba Marquez
CA
Chapter: Firebaugh FFA
This high school senior serves as first vice president for her FFA chapter. Alba is also involved in the cotton, milk-quality and tree-pruning FFA teams and serves in a leadership role for each of those. After graduating, she plans to attend college and become an agriculture teacher and FFA advisor.
ffanation.ffa.org
Story by Kim Newsom Holmberg
Heritage
A History of Agricultural Since 1928, FFA evolves to meet industry needs
I
“
believe in the future of agriculture…” Every Greenhand FFA member learns that phrase, also known as the opening line of the FFA Creed. FFA members prior to 1990 recited a slightly different version, “I believe in the future of farming.” Sure, many FFA members know that the FFA Creed was revised in 1990 to reflect changes in the industry, and you might also know that the organization’s name changed in 1988 from Future Farmers of America to the National FFA Organization for the same reason. But, have you ever stopped to think about the reasons behind those changes? What were the developments in the industry
of agriculture that led to a rebranding of the FFA organization? “In the 1920s, agriculture was basically family farms, and the products grown and livestock raised were in support of that family on the farm and perhaps local community,” explains Cheryl Salley, manager of community relations and sponsored programs for John Deere, one of the first corporate supporters of FFA. Bernie Staller, chief operating officer for the National FFA Organization from 1991 to 2004, says that FFA works to respond to changes in the industry, and has, since its beginning in 1928. “The FFA organization tries to respond to the changes in the marketplace and what the people
Future Farmers of America was founded to help young farm boys learn the skills necessary to become a successful farmer. The organization held competitions like this corn-growing contest in the late 1920s.
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FFA
New Horizons
ffanation.ffa.org
in the industry tell us,” he explains. “So you have to ask, what is the marketplace for graduating FFA members? And it can change over the course of time.” In the late 1920s, farmers made up 21 percent of the U.S. labor force, so preparing young men for careers as farmers was a priority for the new organization. Compare that to today, when farmers comprise less than 2 percent of the U.S. population. 1920s-1930s: Farm-Focused “In the 1920s, FFA projects (now called supervised agricultural experience programs or SAEs) were intended to jump-start FFA members’ careers as farmers,” Staller says. “With guidance from their agriculture teachers, members who raised 10 acres of corn as their FFA project were developing the farm and business skills they would need to be full-time farmers after graduation.” 1940s: FFA gains supporters In the first 20 years of Future Farmers of America, the organization became highly respected by those in the farming industry. A group of agricultural companies, including Firestone Tire and Rubber, General Electric, Deere and Company, General Mills Inc., and International Harvester, became the organization’s first official sponsors when the National FFA Foundation was formed in 1944. Their goal was to create an awards program to recognize FFA members for their achievements. In 1945-46, American Farmer degree recipients received $25 each, and other monetary awards were given for public speaking contests, for ffanation.ffa.org
state star farmers, and for farm mechanics and farm and home electrification competitions. Salley says that while there are no specific records as to why John Deere chose to sponsor FFA, she presumes that their reasoning was because of the agricultural education programs FFA provided students. “One of Deere’s oldest and largest corporate sponsorships is the farm business management career development event,” Salley says. “Senior management of Deere worked side by side with FFA representatives in designing and implementing the contest. The contest emphasizes the importance of sound financial management – something students can use their entire lives both personally and professionally.”
Also in the 1940s, the National FFA Officers went on their first Goodwill Tour, visiting businesses and industrial firms across the country. Agricultural business leaders wanted their employees to meet the student leaders and become acquainted with the organization. These businesses began to see FFA members as future employees and leaders of the industry of agriculture. 1950s: Biotech birth “The science revolution – herbicides, insecticides, etc. – in the late 1950s and 1960s caused a need for more science-based learning in our agricultural education classes,” Staller says. “Agriscience and biotechnology came along – so there were options available for
Future Farmers of America convention attendees in the 1950s were treated to dairy products at the FFA Milk Bar. The national FFA convention was held in Kansas City, Mo., from 1928 to 1998.
FFA
New Horizons
7
FFA members other than just farming.
make their recommendations for
chapters could continue to go by
improving the program. As a result,
‘Future Farmers of America’ if they
from industry leaders, FFA needed
new awards were added, designed to
wished. Our goal was not to change
to get out in front of agriculture’s
be more compatible with classroom
the rural chapters, but rather to help
needs for business professionals,
instruction and offer more
the urban and suburban programs
not just those with specific farm
opportunities to students interested
better fit within the organization.
skills. This was so that there
in careers in agribusiness.
We added more options for those
He adds, “By encouragement
would be graduates available,
Also in the 1970s, the FFA
who really needed it.”
with particular skill sets, when the
Foundation worked diligently
industry was set to hire them. The
to bring in new agricultural
time, many “nontraditional”
green revolution – turfgrass, golf
supporters that represented the organization’s additional awards
FFA programs had a difficult time
courses, sports turf, landscaping, etc. – came a few years later and
categories. Agricultural businesses
also drove changes in FFA awards.”
were also invited to have booths in the career show during the national
1960s: First Career Show
FFA convention.
With more opportunities in agriculture, FFA members began considering careers
1988: The Name Change Staller says that by the late
Staller adds that, at the
recruiting members, because they perceived the program would teach them to be farmers, which was not the case. Even with the name change and added opportunities for members, Staller says that the organization remained rooted to agriculture at its core.
in agribusiness, horticulture,
1970s and early 1980s, the common
biotechnology and more. So in 1966,
definition of “farmer” didn’t
the first “Careers in Agriculture”
encompass the entire industry of
anything that was taken away,”
exhibits were on display for
agriculture, and hadn’t for many
Staller says, thinking of the original
national FFA convention attendees.
years. Agricultural companies were
FFA programs and contests from
already looking to FFA members
the organization’s beginnings.
that they have become a mainstay
as potential employees, so the
“If anything, they’ve expanded.”
in all FFA conventions since then,
organization knew a name
growing larger and larger each year.
change was necessary.
The exhibits were so popular
“It’s tough for me to think of
He adds, “Actually, I believe there was a contest for working with
“The name change in 1988
draft horses back in the 1930s, but as
is now known as the National
allowed for maximum flexibility,”
you can probably imagine, the need
FFA Agricultural Career Show.
Staller explains. “The states and local
for that event ended rather quickly.”
These exhibits have become what
Also in the late 1960s, the FFA Foundation created the Star in Agribusiness Award, to recognize the growing number of students studying agribusiness. 1970s: Awards Abound By the end of the 1960s, the FFA program included 13 proficiency award programs, but the organization realized that the 13 areas no longer adequately covered the interests and SAE programs of its members. Consultants representing teachers, agricultural businesses and related associations were called to Washington, D.C., to
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FFA
New Horizons
While farming practices have evolved since the organization’s beginnings in 1928, agriculture remains at its core. This 1986 American Star in Agribusiness performed his daily farm chores a bit differently than the members of the 1920s and 1930s.
ffanation.ffa.org
1990s-now: breaking records After the organization’s rebranding in the late 1980s, membership began to rise, pointing to the decision as being a positive one for the future of FFA. The AgriEntrepreneurship Awards were created in 1997, and in 2001, the first Stars in Agricultural Placement and Agriscience were recognized. More leadership opportunities have become available, and classroom curriculum has been revised to include more areas such as horticulture programs, education on urban agriculture, and biotechology instruction. Still more opportunities will be made available in the coming years, based on the changes in the industry of agriculture. Agriculture at the Core “Although both FFA and John Deere have diversified and expanded their interests, agriculture remains the foundation we both stand on,” Salley says. Staller agrees, adding that the willingness to remain current with the changing industry has contributed to its membership growth over the past 80-plus years. “FFA has been the most responsive youth organization out there when it comes to preparing for and meeting its industry’s needs,” Staller says. “The organization, many times, has had to ask itself this: Are we going to just respond to needs or will we get ahead of the game and be prepared to meet the challenges as they arise?”
FFA members compete in the national poultry judging career development event (CDE) in 1999. Over the years, new FFA CDEs have been added to offer members opportunities to learn about the different fields of agriculture.
ffanation.ffa.org
FFA
New Horizons
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FFA National Officer
Q&A participate in speaking events, I became more confident, skilled and comfortable speaking in front of larger and larger audiences. With lots of practice and a willingness to grow, I eventually overcame stage fright and now greatly enjoy public speaking.
Q
Why has FFA been such a big part of your life so far?
A
FFA is an enormous part of my life, because it provides me with the opportunity to develop leadership
skills while building friendships with other members. As well, FFA has enabled me to benefit from the knowledge and skills I have gained in the classroom and through my supervised agricultural experience program (SAE) by allowing me to put them to use in CDEs and proficiencies.
FYI Landan’s Favorites
This Colorado native says he enjoys all types of music and his cereal of choice is Fruit Loops. Learn more about Landan’s favorites. Food: Cheeseburgers and french fries Singer: Garth Brooks Season: Summer FFA memory: Attending my first national FFA convention in Louisville as a freshman in high school Vacation spot: The Rocky Mountains Candy: Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bars Website: YouTube School subject: Math Fruit: Apples
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FFA
New Horizons
Landan
Schaffert National
FFA Secretary
Q
A phrase used a lot about the National FFA Officers is “servant leadership.”
How do you define servant leadership?
A
To me, servant leadership is best described as humbly serving others. Servant leaders are those who possess
an authentic desire to positively impact the lives of others. Leaders with a true servant
Growing up on a farm in rural Otis, Colo.,
heart do not seek recognition for performing
Landan Schaffert had a love for agriculture
good deeds of service.
very early in life. Landan has been actively involved in helping his parents run their Angus cattle farm, so his beef production supervised agricultural experience program
Q
This issue focuses a lot on FFA history. What moment in FFA’s history do you
think has made the biggest impact on the
(SAE) was a natural fit. While in FFA, Landan
organization and why?
has also participated in the FFA Creed, Public
A
Speaking and Extemporaneous Speaking career development events.
Q
How did you overcome stage fright in FFA public speaking events?
A
I believe that opening FFA membership to women in 1969 was the moment that made the biggest impact on
the organization, because women deserve the same right as men to participate in FFA. Furthermore, women have made extremely
Presenting the FFA Creed in front of
significant contributions that have
a small crowd as a freshman was a
helped advance the organization and
bit frightening, but as I continued to
increase membership. ffanation.ffa.org
canine careers
Dogs
Gone to the
Five featured careers where you can work with dogs
Y
ou’ve probably heard the
DOG GROOMERS
saying “Find a job you love,
Dog groomers enjoy the
and you’ll never work a day
satisfaction of turning a shaggy,
in your life.” If you’re a dog-lover,
possibly smelly dog into a clean,
your dream job might be working
perfectly groomed pet in just
with canines.
a couple of hours. They build
Lots of careers include
relationships with their clients
hands-on involvement with man’s
(both the dogs and their owners)
best friend, but keep in mind there
and can often be self-employed
are risks such as being bitten or
out of their homes.
scratched and dealing with aggressive and fearful animals. Check out these five careers that involve working with dogs:
Dog groomers can even be
The goal of behaviorists and
of a van that visits clients’ homes. They spend lots of hands-on time might include bathing, drying, brushing and cutting hair. More
trainers is usually to help pet owners
detailed appointments might include
get rid of unwanted behavior. With a
polishing a pup’s nails or dyeing
lot of patience, they help transform
its hair.
unruly dogs into calm, controllable
They can receive professional
companions. Trainers can take
training at schools such as the
classes to receive certification
licensed and accredited New York
as a professional trainer.
School of Dog Grooming.
With dedication and some luck, this field can lead to training dogs for film, television and commercials.
DOG BREEDERS Though it sounds simple, dog
Trainers to “canine stars” usually
breeding involves more than letting
study animal health, and their jobs
purebred dogs have puppies and
entail preparing animals for what is
selling them. Breeders also have to
required to star in a film. They need
be vigilant about maintaining breed
the ability to read animals to ensure
standards and keeping dogs healthy.
a dog is right for a project. ffanation.ffa.org
in breeding as a hobby and network with experienced, reputable breeders. Breeding takes a serious investment of time and money, and many breeders do it as a second job because the profit margins can be slim. KENNEL WORKERS A great way to begin a career working with dogs is by working at a kennel or doggie daycare center. You can usually be hired with no previous experience and receive training onsite. The job might involve supervising playtime for dogs staying for the day or feeding and cleaning up after dogs boarding for several days. Although it is a messy job, often with minimal pay, dedicated workers can eventually manage or own their own boarding kennel or doggie daycare.
mobile, operating their business out
with pets – a typical appointment DOG BEHAVIORISTS/TRAINERS
FFA cool careers
It is a good idea to start a career
VETERINARIAN Perhaps the most gratifying dog-related career is working to help sick pets feel better. But veterinarians also have to bear the pain of seeing animals die and endure serious pain. They risk being bitten, scratched and urinated on, and they have to euthanize animals to relieve their suffering. That being said, veterinarians get to see animals all day and can make a substantial amount of money. On the flip side, they have to pay for veterinary school and commit eight years to earn a degree. As with any of these jobs, talk to dog professionals in your area about entry-level work and volunteer opportunities to see if you enjoy it. – Jessica Mozo
FFA
New Horizons
11
Story by Jessica Mozo
All-American
Quads Zook quadruplets make history by simultaneously earning American FFA Degrees
Jeff Adkins
W
hen Indiana quadruplets Malena, Primmer, John and Lucia Zook received their American FFA Degrees in October 2010 at the national FFA convention, it made FFA history. Although hundreds of FFA members receive the degree at the convention each year, it was the first time a set of quadruplets received the highest FFA honor at the same time. The Zook siblings from Flora, Ind., spent six years in FFA at the juniorand senior-high level in the Carroll FFA Chapter. Their agriculture teacher, Steve Keown, wasn’t surprised at the Zooks’ high achievement. “The kind of example the Zooks set was outstanding,” Keown says. “They would go out of their way to make our chapter better. When they volunteered to do something, you knew it was going to get done on time and correctly. They set ffanation.ffa.org
The Zook quadruplets, from left, Primmer, John, Malena and Lucia, made FFA history when they all received their American FFA Degrees last October. The siblings have been involved with agriculture since an early age.
FFA
New Horizons
13
Jeff Adkins
examples by showing FFA is more
Jordon, who gained a lot from his
Lucia says. “When I zipped up my
than contests and conventions.
FFA involvement.
FFA jacket, I became more confident
They worked very hard in all our
“Growing up, I remember going
in myself.” Malena says it is hard to
community service projects and
to banquets and seeing Jordon
would take the time to help other
in Official Dress,” Lucia recalls.
describe the extent to which
members or coach younger members
“I looked up to our older brother
FFA has impacted her life.
in activities they had done.”
and saw how involved he was
A Natural Fit Born one minute apart
“I wouldn’t be where I am
in FFA. I wanted to be just like him.”
today without the experience and
Soon the quadruplets found
knowledge I gained from FFA,” she
themselves donning blue and gold
says. “Not only did I gain confidence
(from oldest to youngest), Primmer,
jackets like their big brother and
and a wealth of knowledge about the
Malena, Lucia and John grew up on
gaining skills such as leadership,
agriculture industry, I also learned
a farm. Their involvement in FFA
public speaking and responsibility.
what it meant to be an authentic
came naturally, as they followed in the footsteps of their older brother,
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FFA
New Horizons
“FFA got me to break out of my comfort zone and meet new people,”
leader. Because of FFA, and specifically my SAE [supervised ffanation.ffa.org
agricultural experience program] and proficiency area, I was able to learn about what I’m passionate about and get a head start on what I want to study in college.” varied career goals Although the four siblings have much in common, the now-college sophomores have very different interests and career goals. Malena is studying informatics at Indiana University and plans to pursue a career that combines technology and education. Lucia is studying nursing at Vincennes University and wants to conduct animal-assisted therapy. Primmer is majoring in exercise science at Indiana UniversityPurdue University Indianapolis and hopes to work in physical therapy and athletic training. And John’s passion lies in production agriculture and animal science – he attends Ivy Tech Community College and plans to operate a large farm of his own one day. “I would like to make my living with livestock, whether it be with show pigs or cattle,” John says. “I have my own sow herd where I sell show pigs, and I plan to continue that business.” highest ffa honor Throughout their FFA careers, the siblings worked toward their American FFA Degrees, supporting one another along the way. “Being the highest award FFA gives out, I thought it would be excellent to have on my resume,” Primmer says. “Also since my three other siblings were working toward it, I didn’t want to be left out. So that motivated me.” Though they each had different SAEs, Primmer and John worked ffanation.ffa.org
FFA
New Horizons
15
Jeff Adkins
Now in college, the Zooks are working toward their career goals. Lucia studies nursing and animal-assisted therapies, Malena plans to combine technology and education in an informatics career, John is passionate about production agriculture and plans to operate a farm someday, and Primmer studies physical therapy and athletic training.
together on a demonstration for a
production proficiency. Lucia had a
18 years, the quadruplets treasure
district contest on how to process
district-winning natural resources
their FFA memories and the honor
baby pigs.
demonstration that went to state
they shared when they walked the
level. And Primmer was on district-
convention stage last fall.
“The four of us each had our own interests, proficiencies, contests and activities we participated in, but we
winning chapter meeting teams. “All of them have always been
“It’s such a great feeling to hear your name called and walk across
have always known receiving our
devoted to FFA. I knew if something
that stage in front of thousands of
American FFA Degrees would be
was their goal, they could get it
people in Lucas Oil Stadium,” Lucia
something we all worked toward,”
done,” Keown says. “We had 10
says. “It’s like an FFA graduation not
Malena says. “We each had different
students achieve the American FFA
many people get to do.”
ways of getting there, but we were
Degree this year, and all from the
Malena says receiving the
same class. I don’t know how to put
degree was the “perfect way to
Among other achievements,
it other than they are just great
end my FFA career.”
Malena was on a national third-place
kids, and I’m proud to say they
dairy team that went to Europe and
are from the Carroll FFA Chapter.”
all working toward the same goal.”
proficiency. John was a state winner and national silver winner in the beef
16
FFA
New Horizons
year and a half, I have realized the significant impact FFA has had on
was a national finalist in the agricultural communications
“After being in college for a
treasured memories Now miles apart at different colleges after living together for
me,” she continues. “I hope younger members will take advantage of all FFA can do for them as well.” ffanation.ffa.org
About the American FFA Degree Interested in achieving the highest honor in FFA? The American FFA Degree is awarded to FFA members who have demonstrated the highest level of commitment to FFA and made significant accomplishments in their SAEs. Along with the degree, recipients receive a gold American FFA Degree key.
• •
or have earned and productively invested at least $1,500 and worked 2,250 hours beyond scheduled school hours through their SAEs. Have a record of outstanding leadership skills. Have a record of participating in
community service activities. • Have maintained a “C” grade average or better. Visit www.ffa.org for more information. You can also e-mail americandegree@ffa.org or call 317-802-4255.
To qualify, FFA members must: • • • • • •
Have received a Greenhand FFA Degree, Chapter FFA Degree and State FFA Degree. Have been FFA members for at least three years. Have completed at least three years (540 hours) of high school agriculture classes, or 2 years of high school agriculture classes and one year of college agriculture classes (360 hours.) Have graduated from high school one year prior to the national FFA convention at which their degree will be awarded. Have maintained detailed SAErecords, which demonstrate outstanding planning, managerial and financial skills. Have earned and productively invested at least $7,500,
ffanation.ffa.org
FFA
New Horizons
17
FFA your money
did you know?
Money
Right on the
11 Facts about money you probably never knew
W
8.
The largest bill in existence is for $100,000, and Woodrow
Wilson’s portrait is printed on it. However, it was never made available to the public and was limited to transactions between the U.S. Treasury Department and the Federal Reserve.
9.
The $2 bill is still a valid form of U.S. currency, though
e carry around dollar bills
note. It appeared on $1 silver
many people hold on to them.
of different quantities
certificates of 1886, 1891 and 1896.
They were last printed in 2003,
every day, and chances
4.
Bills are made of 25 percent
and as of April 2007, there were
linen and 75 percent cotton,
$1,549,052,714 worth of $2 bills
are you’ve got a George Washington or an Abe Lincoln floating around in your pocket or purse right now. But did you know that same $1 bill that sports the image of America’s first president won’t even exist 18 months from now? That’s because bills that get worn out from everyday use are
with red and blue synthetic fibers
in circulation worldwide.
distributed throughout the paper.
10. 11.
5.
The Bureau of Engraving and Printing prints 38 million new
notes every day, valuing around $541 million. About 95 percent of those bills are used to replace
taken out of circulation and
worn-out bills already in circulation.
replaced by the U.S. Treasury’s
6.
Bureau of Engraving and Printing,
The largest bill currently printed is for $100.
The distribution of currency in denominations
of $500, $1,000, $5,000 and $10,000 was stopped by the Federal Reserve in 1969 because safer
Paper bills are pretty resilient –
payment methods such as bank
you would have to fold a U.S.
transfers and check writing were
and different denominations of bills
currency note forward and backward
available. Those large bills can
typically last for different amounts
about 4,000 times before it would tear.
still be found circulating today,
of time. Like we said, a $1 bill has the
“In God We Trust” first
7.
however, and they remain legal
appeared on U.S. coins in
tender if you can ever get your
shortest life, lasting only 18 months. A $5 bill lasts about two years; a $10 bill, three years; and a $100 bill, nine years. Interesting stuff, huh?
1864 and became the national motto a century later.
hands on one. – Jessica Mozo
Read on for more surprising facts about money you can use to impress your friends and family.
1.
The first paper bills were printed in 1862
in denominations of 1 cent, 5 cents, 25 cents and 50 cents.
2. 3.
Nearly half (48 percent) of all bills are $1 notes. Martha Washington is the only woman whose face has
been printed on a U.S. currency
18
FFA
New Horizons
ffanation.ffa.org
FFA Back Talk
Former members Reflect
Lindner A
Christine
FFA alumna advocates for agriculture as Wisconsin’s 63rd Alice in Dairyland
Q
How do you feel FFA helped you prepare for your current position as Alice?
As a sophomore in high school, my life changed because of FFA. I competed in the State and National FFA Agricultural Sales Career Development Event (CDE). This CDE unwrapped my interest to pursue a career in agricultural sales and marketing. I often share this story with FFA members to help communicate the value of FFA and impact it can make for one individual. Now in my role as our state’s agricultural ambassador, I use the skills learned in FFA to bring Wisconsin’s $59 billion agriculture industry into our daily conversations. My goal is to encourage consumers to take action with their dollars in supporting agriculture by buying locally grown products, which allows each of us to support our state’s agriculture, local producers, communities and economies.
Q
Why do you think it’s so important for anyone involved with agriculture to advocate for our industry and teach others about how their food and fiber is produced?
A Christine Lindner, FFA alumna and Wisconsin’s 63rd Alice in Dairyland
T
elling the story of Wisconsin agriculture has become a lifelong passion for Christine Lindner. A native of Beaver Dam, Wis., she advocated while serving as her FFA chapter president, then as the Wisconsin state FFA reporter, and now as Wisconsin’s 63rd Alice in Dairyland. As Alice, she serves as a spokesperson for Wisconsin agriculture, working to educate audiences of all ages through media interviews, school visits and event presentations. In one year, Lindner will travel more than 40,000 miles, working on behalf of Wisconsin farmers to promote the state’s agriculture. Learn more about Lindner’s unique opportunity in our interview with her.
20
FFA
New Horizons
The average American is now three generations removed from production agriculture. The need to connect and educate consumers about our food, fiber and natural resources industry is now. As agriculturists, using our shared values we must make essential connections with consumers face-to-face, through the media and using the latest communication tools to help consumers understand that foods found on grocery store shelves first start on farms.
ffanation.ffa.org Visit the online version of this story to learn more about Christine Lindner and for her suggestions on how you can educate others about your own state’s agriculture industry.
ffanation.ffa.org
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.
APRIL 2011
California FFA
PAGE
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Outstanding Chapter
Check out our
website www.californiaffa.org
PAGE
I
State Judging Finals
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State Officer Farewell
Chapter Scoops
What’s Inside This Issue State Officer Farewell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-C Outstanding Chapter: Templeton FFA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D Supporting California Agriculture: Our State Staff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E State Conference Pump-Up/Stay Connected . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F Behind the Scenes of State Conference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G A Blast from the Past . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H State Judging Finals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I Chapter Scoops . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . J-P
State Officer Farewell A Look in the Rearview Mirror
“Friends are the family we choose along the way.” This quote could not describe our year better. Having been given the opportunity to travel across the beautiful state of California representing and advocating for the agriculture industry and all of the incredible 68,000 members of California was truly an honor. Through SOLCs, COLCs, ROLC, National Convention, MFE, ALA and especially chapter visits, you have showed us how to give, love, persevere and ultimately shaped us into the people we are today. Friends, thank you for giving us this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! Always, Vince, Lindsey, Jacquelynne, Ben, Jessica and Casey
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State Officer Farewell continued
continued on Page H CALIFORNIA FFA • C
Outstanding Chapter: Templeton FFA The Templeton FFA Chapter is located in the small community of Templeton on the central coast of California. In a town of 6,900 people, Templeton High School is home to 795 students, 274 of those students are enrolled in agriculture education. The Booker Brothers Vocational Agricultural Complex is located at the south end of campus and houses the Templeton Vocational Agriculture Program. The complex consists of a laboratory science classroom, computer aided drafting laboratory, welding technology shop, wood technology shop, an additional classroom, as well as teacher offices and a chapter officer planning room. Additional facilities on site include a greenhouse, shade house and potting shed area. A short walk away is a 7-acre school farm laboratory consisting of sheep, hog and cattle barns, as well as showing, poultry area and garden plots. The Vocational Agriculture program at Templeton High School strives to fully implement the three circles of agriculture education on a daily basis. The facilities and resources available from the community greatly benefit the curriculum in the program. Although traditionally offering only elective courses, students are currently able to receive their UC/CSU Visual and Performing Arts credit for ROP Art & History of Floral Design. In the future, students should be able to complete Agriculture Biology for science credit, in addition to the extensive and rigorous career technical education courses offered. Students in Templeton FFA fully recognize the value of their involvement and strive to participate in as many activities as possible. Chapter meetings are conducted professionally with recreational opportunities at the conclusion. During National FFA Week, the
D • CALIFORNIA FFA
chapter officers organize an FFA Game Night, where members of the program spend time in the agriculture complex playing board, video and computer games for an evening of food, fun and FFA festivities. Besides spending time developing peer relationships, members also enjoy participating in various community service activities such as the Clothe the Needy Coat Drive and Toys for Tots Toy Drive. Student projects in the Vocational Agriculture program are extensive. From floral design to hog production, students are working hard to develop opportunities for themselves in agriculture, outside of the classroom. The annual student project auction has been held for 11 years allowing students the chance to sell their wood and metal shop fabricated projects to the community. A unique format, the dinner event sells approximately 50 student project annually. Items from patio furniture to oak cabinetry, student projects bring on average $500 a piece to the auction. The vocational agriculture program at Templeton High School strives to provide unique, well-rounded experiences to the members. Education may change, but the program has held on to its vocational background while embracing the opportunity to provide greater variety to its students.
The Templeton FFA Chapter Officers meet regularly for morning breakfast meetings to plan chapter activities and events.
GLC participants excited about the FFA after the day’s festivities.
Freshman members prepare for competition at the Sectional BIG and Creed Speaking contest.
Members of all classes participate in valuable leadership development activities such a problem solving and team work.
Templeton FFA is in the South Coast Region FFA and is one of seven chapters in the San Luis Obispo FFA Section. Advisors: Chris Hildebrand Robin Schroeder Erin Thompson Members of the California State Champion Welding team proudly represent Templeton FFA.
Agricultural Education State Staff Together our State FFA Staff has 490 years of knowledge and wisdom serving you!
Front Row: Jean Landeen, Central Region Advisor, 41 years Katie Otto, Financial Coordinator, 3 years Lynn Martindale, UC Davis Professor, 25 years Jeanette Sturzen, Superior Region Advisor, 23 years Tina Kloss, Membership Coordinator, 4 years Back Row: Brad Dodson, CSU Chico Professor, 30 years Hugh Mooney, North Coast Region Advisor, 27 years Josiah Mayfield, Assistant State FFA Advisor, 9 years Bob Heuvel, State FFA Advisor, 37 years Bob Commings, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo Professor, 36 years Greg Beard, South Coast Region FFA Advisor, 25 years Rosco Vaughn, CSU Fresno State Professor, 46 years Jack Havens, Southern Region Advisor, 32 years Lloyd McCabe, Agriculture Education Consultant, 35 years Bill Kellogg, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo Professor, 35 years Ken Harris, San Joaquin Advisor, 46 years Marcus Hollan, Conference Coordinator, 1 year Not pictured: Jim Aschwanden, CATA Executive Director, 35 years CALIFORNIA CALIFORNIA FFA FFA •• EE
State Conference Pump Up 83rd California State FFA Leadership Conference
April 16-19, 2011
Visit www.calaged.org for more information. See you there!
Stay Connected Become friends with your California FFA State Officers, and stay connected to latest news of CA FFA.
facebook.com/caffa.officers F • CALIFORNIA FFA
Behind the Scenes: State Conference
Behind the scenes of State FFA Conference, ever wonder? Information gathered from Jason Ferreira, former Tulare Union FFA member, and Mandy Hill, former Arcata FFA member The vibrations from the blaring music pound beneath your feet, your eyes are captivated by the laser show, the excitement in the air makes your heart pound faster and faster, and you are instantly amazed by the sea of blue and gold in Selland Arena. Many of you have experienced the four lifechanging days of a California State FFA Conference, but have you ever wondered who works to put this conference together? In addition to the State FFA Officers, State Staff and numerous others, Fresno State students have a special role in putting on State Conference. Fresno State students have the opportunity to join the California State FFA Conference Committee, which is advised by Dr. Rosco Vaughn, an Agriculture Education professor at Fresno State. The group is typically composed of roughly 50 Fresno State undergraduate students. Majority of the students in the class were former FFA members. FFA Alumni like Jason have participated in this committee. “I would notice all of the red Fresno State shirts running around State Conference, but I never realized how much work those individuals put into the conference,” explained Jason Ferreira, the 2010 State Conference Committee President. Jason is extremely grateful to have served on the committee because it opened his eyes and allowed him to appreciate the amount of behind-the-scenes work that goes into putting on a successful State FFA Conference. The committee meets weekly during the spring semester. The committee is structured with 13 sub-committees and an executive committee. The executive committee consists of a President, Vice-president, Secretary and Treasurer. The 13 sub-committees consist of Agriscience Fair, Activities Volunteer, Career Show, Operations, Polling Booths, Press Corps, Proficiency Awards, Public Relations, Signs, Stage Decorations, Transportation/Tours, Web Proceedings and Workshops. All in all, the California FFA Association is extremely thankful for the time and commitment given by the Fresno State FFA Conference Committee.
CALIFORNIA FFA • G
A Blast From Our Short FFA Past: Catching up with the 2009-2010 State FFA Officer Team Have you ever wondered what your past State FFA Officers are up to? Many of us were inspired, befriended and touched by the 2009-2010 State FFA Officer Team. They traveled California and impacted the lives of many, but have you ever wondered what your past State Officers are up too now? Well, we caught up with them and they gladly answered a few questions to share with you! AB – Adrienne Bradley, 2009-2010 State President SD – Sam Doty, 2009-2010 State Vice President MS – Mikaela Serafin, 2009-2010 State Secretary JL – Jordan Lippincott, 2009-2010 State Treasurer KS – Kaylyn Schiber, 2009-2010 State Reporter TP – Tatiana Prestininzi, 2009-2010 State Sentinel What college are you attending? SD, MS, JL, TP: Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo AB: UC Davis KS: Western Illinois University What are you majoring in? JL: Agriculture Sciences-Communication, Biochemistry minor TP: Agriculture Sciences-Communication, Ag Business minor AB: Agricultural and Environmental Education major, International Relations minor MS: Agriculture Science, emphasis in Education; Religious Studies minor KS: Agricultural Education SD: Agriculture Sciences-Communication, Global Politics minor What are you up to now? (clubs, activities, etc.) JL: ACT (Ag Communicators of Tomorrow) member, Ag Ambassadors member, AMSA (American Medical Student Association) member and planning to join a fraternity TP: ACT (Ag Communicators of Tomorrow) member, Ag Ambassadors member, ASI Community and Outreach SD: ACT (Ag Communicators of Tomorrow) Videographer, Ag Ambassadors member, Awkward Squad founding member, Kohls part-time Home and Kids Associate, and applying to be a Poly Rep (College Ambassador) How has FFA prepared you for college? JL: It prepared me for the rigor of college courses and also gave a base agriculture knowledge that I can adequately expand upon in my higher education. MS: The National FFA Organization helped me prepare for college by laying the foundation to help me explore and develop the passions I possess, increase my study and work habits, as well as
H H •• CALIFORNIA CALIFORNIA FFA FFA
allow myself to develop skills that cannot be found in any other organization. KS: FFA provided me with the work ethic I need to be successful in college. It has also helped me learn how to break out of my comfort zone, which has led me to getting involved and making new friends. What about FFA do you miss? AB: More than anything, I miss all of the wonderful people in the FFA! MS: I most certainly miss the inspiring members from across the nation, but especially the ones from the good ole state of California … they are the best! SD: I miss all the adventurous road trips, the amazing members, conferences, and that overall feeling when you zip up that blue and gold corduroy jacket. What do you love about college? JL: I love the San Luis Obispo environment, all the new friends I have met and the fun classes you get to take, like Chemistry Lab (where there are a lot of great experiments). TP: I love the people, classes, the beautiful weather and downtown San Luis Obispo. AB: What I love about Davis: the friends I have met here, downtown Davis (with America’s favorite Farmers Market), the many cultures that make the college so diverse, crepes are everywhere and the opportunities available at Davis – international experiences, all kinds of clubs, numerous majors, and the variety of classes and internship/job/research opportunities KS: I love the new friends I have made, being close to my family and the cold weather! But mostly I love the agriculture education program. I have already learned so many things that I hope will make me a successful Ag Teacher in the future.
2011 STATE FFA JUDGING FINALS
Who will be our next California State FFA Champion Teams, will it be your chapter?
Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo May 7, 2011 Competitions are as follows: Ag Issues Agribusiness, Cal Poly SLO
Farm Records Elk Grove FFA Boosters
Ag Mechanics In Honor of Bill King
Marketing Agricultural Council of California
Floriculture California FFA Foundation
Agronomy California Seed Association
Forestry Calif Forestry Association
Marketing Plan UCD Agricultural Education
Best Informed Greenhand California Farm Bureau Federation
Land American Ag Credit/ Farm Credit West/CoBank
Dairy Cattle Western United Dairymen Dairy Products DeSilva Family Trust Farm Business Management George Gomes
Light Horse Rasmussen Livestock Livestock Bakersfield High School – In Memory of Robert Bowman
Nursery/Landscape California Association of Nurseries & Garden Centers Poultry California FFA Foundation Specialty Animals California FFA Foundation Vegetables California FFA Foundation CALIFORNIA CALIFORNIA FFA FFA •• II
Chapter Scoops Duncan Poly FFA Chapter Written by Jessica Irvin, Chapter Reporter The Duncan Poly FFA chapter members have been working on their arboretum throughout the semester. The members began on August 21, 2010 and are still continuing the renovations. Chapter President, Julie Vang stated, “We’re creating a natural habitat to encourage native animals to live there.” The group did this by revamping the pond, evaluating plants to ensure that there were only California native plants and by reestablishing the trail.
Atascadero FFA Chapter The Atascadero FFA has ended their 2010 year with a bang and started their 2011 year with an even bigger one. The officer team gave back to the community, members worked hard to get ready for competitions and members attended conferences. In December 2010, the officer team hosted a canned food drive to help the local Loaves and Fishes. Students who brought in cans would receive an activity point to go towards their semester’s total grade and they would help out their community. The team had also gone to the local Vons and asked people if they would like to contribute to the Atascadero FFA Canned Food Drive and many did. The team had surpassed last year’s total by collecting more than 2,700 cans. When they dropped the items off at the local Loaves and Fishes, they were very grateful. On Saturday January 15, two students set out on an adventure to the Denver, Colo. to show at the National Western Stock Show. They arrived Saturday afternoon tired and excited. Alex Borba showed a light-weight crossbred barrow that placed ninth in class. Ryan Debusk received seventh place for his heavy weight spot barrow. All in all, they had a great time, and it was a great experience for them to learn, grow and participate in. Buhach Colony FFA Chapter Written by Lindsay Olds, Chapter Reporter The Buhach Colony FFA hosted its fourth annual fashion show on December 4 at a popular, local Mexican restaurant in Atwater, California. Members volunteered to model outfits from a variety of clothing stores within the Atwater and Merced communities, giving them an opportunity to promote their business. Tickets were sold at $25, and those who attended received lunch with their show, as well as special discount deals from specific participating stores. The guests were also given an opportunity to take home numerous gifts from our silent auction and raffle, for which the items were donated by individuals or made in the shop classes. The cost of the event was covered by table and placemat sponsors placed at each setting. The fashion show allows the chapter to meet with the community on a personal basis and serves as a great fundraiser!
J • CALIFORNIA FFA
A few things the members learned during this project were how to identify plant species, to use tools safely and correctly, and how to fix sprinklers. Erick Franson, the chapter’s Parliamentarian, mentioned that they learned about the beauty of California’s nature, and why he and the rest of the members are learning about agriculture. The group is dedicated to continuing their study of agriculture and views the arboretum renovation as a great learning experience! East Nicolaus FFA Written by Katie Moos, Chapter Reporter Doing what we love … Loving what we do. The 2010-2011 East Nicolaus Officer Team and its members started the school year off strong. More than 30 freshmen attended the 2010 Hollywoodthemed Greenhand Conference. Forty-two freshmen participated in Greenhand Initiation and donned green hands around campus. Eight chapter members are currently participating in FARMS, an agricultural leadership program that gives students an opportunity to see agriculture as it relates to industry. Students toured a mush-
Chapter Scoops Continued room farm in Colusa, and learned that Portabella mushrooms double in size each day leading up to harvest. In December, East Nicolaus FFA held its annual Christmas Tree Sale. The officer team celebrated the holiday break with the annual “Christmas Murder Mystery Party.” The officers enjoyed spending time together and exchanged gifts while trying to figure out whodunit. In January 17 members attended the Made For Excellence and Advanced Leadership Academy conferences in Redding. The chapter officers and advisors are looking forward to an eventful spring semester with basketball concessions, Superior Region Meeting, State Leadership Conference, Easter Egg Hunt, Project Competition and the end-of-the-year Chapter Banquet.
This winter break students from the Esparto Agricultural Department traveled eight hours to Pasadena to participate in building floats for the Rose Bowl Parade. This is the second year that Esparto has worked on the floats. Because every inch of the float needs to be covered with a natural material, it’s a great way for floral students to see a wide variety of flowers and different materials. Students worked on a Kiwanis-sponsored float that featured a large eagle. They worked on cutting feathers out of corn husks and palms, and cut petals to cover the floats while other students glued feathers onto the eagle. Fillmore FFA Chapter Written by Brooke Aguirre, Chapter Reporter Mr. Ricards, advisor from Fillmore High School, along with several FFA members attended the Greenhand Conference in Canoga Park. When I asked Kaileigh Carpenter about the conference, she explained to me that she was impressed that the conference was not just about FFA, but how to succeed in life. Zahydie Martin, enjoyed the team-building activities; one of which included being on a team
Escondido FFA Chapter At Escondido High School our Agriculture Department hosts a community event held at our farm each year titled “Pumpkin Festival.” This is our third year hosting the event, and every year it gets bigger and bigger. The community comes together for a day of family fun, which includes live entertainment, hay rides, games, crafts, petting zoo, live performances, and we sell pumpkins grown from our pumpkin patch. All of the proceeds go towards scholarships for our students and for financial assistance for leadership conferences. Esparto FFA Chapter Submitted by Carolann Clark, Chapter Reporter
where they would periodically yell out their team chant, and whoever was the loudest earned points. While talking with Hailee Smith, she said she really enjoyed that the conference leaders made them sit with students they didn’t know, which helped her meet new people. It was obvious after talking with Jennifer Martin, that the conference was a positive experience for her. She was so impressed by the conference that she asked Mr. Ricards to sign her up for every future FFA conference. It was good to hear that this year’s Greenhand Conference was enjoyed by all who attended. Gonzales FFA Written by Karina Salomon, Chapter President Throughout the summer four Gonzales FFA members, Alejandro Rosas, Dianey Duran, Jorge Zarate and Karina Salomon, dedicated countless hours to accumulate funds for the 2010 National FFA Convention. The idea of having to raise thousands of dollars made the students a bit skeptical, yet they were willing to work hard in order to make this trip a reality. With all the support from local business, companies and fundraising the members accomplished their financial goal for the trip. On December 15 the four members and one advisor met at school and headed to the San Francisco
CALIFORNIA CALIFORNIA FFA FFA •• K K
Chapter Scoops Continued new facility (due to open in January 2012), as it is not only building a path of hands on learning for our generation, but many more students to follow. Imperial FFA Chapter Written by Miguel Ruiz, Chapter Reporter On Thursday October 28, members of the Imperial FFA Chapter traveled to Westside Elementary School to help out at a community
International Airport. After the two-hour wait they boarded the plane and were off to Louisville, Ky. It had almost been 24 hours since any of them had gotten sleep, yet when they touched down they were fully awake and filled with energy. During the week these members traveled through Nashville, Tenn., Louisville, Ky., and Indianapolis, Ind. They visited historical sites, museums and had amazing learning experiences. All the members could agree that the best part of the trip was arriving in Indianapolis on Wednesday and seeing blue jackets flooding the streets. The only bad part of this trip was leaving; the members came back to their hometown with a new perspective and motivated. Everything they took from the convention is now implemented on their chapter and lives; overall the members and the advisor had an amazing experience! Heritage FFA Chapter Written by Beth Boss, Chapter President 3 …2 … 1 … grab those shovels, put on those hard hats and get a camera! On December 16, 2010, that is exactly what Heritage FFA members did as we celebrated the groundbreaking of our new 4.5-million dollar farm. With 6,516 square-feet of laboratory space, an egg-laying barn, greenhouse, rabbit barn and pastures, the Heritage High School Agricultural Research Center (also known as the ARC) will rest on 2.5 acres of land located at the school. With community members, school officials and city council in attendance, the celebration began with an introduction by the high school band leading into speeches given by school administration along with FFA advisors and members. All of our members in attendance couldn’t be more excited about the construction of the
service. The FFA members helped out by serving food at Westside’s annual barbeque. Every year Westside elementary school has this barbeque to help raise money for the rest of their school year. The Westside Barbeque has been a community service that the Imperial FFA has attended for many years with pleasure and has always had successful barbeques. This year the service went great as it always has. Many members attended and the Imperial FFA had an awesome evening. King City FFA Submitted by Nicole Hardoy, Chapter Reporter Over the holidays King City FFA participated and competed in the local Christmas Parade. The theme of this year’s parade was “Candy Cane Lane”. Our chapter chose the float theme of “Candy Land”. With our own theme “Candy Land” we incorporated one of our
favorite childhood games and this year’s parade theme. Over five days many of our members put together a wonderful float. Our float got second place overall! We are really proud of all of the work
LL •• CALIFORNIA CALIFORNIA FFA FFA
Chapter Scoops Continued that our members put into the float and how well it did. Over 20 members participated in riding on the float and enjoyed showing off their FFA jackets while riding through the streets of King City. Laton FFA Chapter Written by Billy Yecny, Chapter President Members of the Laton FFA were looking for a unique way to showcase their chapter and highlight their community and agriculture
when they decided to enter into the Feature Display competition at the Big Fresno Fair. Members designed, fabricated and constructed a barnyard complete with the barn and farmyard animals with their Best of Show entry. Members had to research past farming practices so they were able to create an educational display that would show how far agriculture has come over the past few decades. Their display included items from our agricultural past such a butter churn, an 1800s barbed wire collection, cream canisters, wire stretchers, horse-drawn plow and oxen harness along with many other items. Littlerock FFA Chapter Written by Chelsey Jurkovac, Chapter Reporter
had, and then participate in the fun activities that were available; such as the costume contest, reverse bobbing for apples, getting your picture taken in a coffin, and reaching in covered boxes to feel strange and unusual items. There were interesting Halloween snacks for all the members and guests to enjoy as well. Overall the Halloween meeting was a huge success and numerous members seemed to have an amazing time. A few months later on December 9, 2010, the Littlerock FFA Chapter hosted their annual holiday meeting. Various members and guests were present at this meeting; where the officers went through their business, then the members received holiday snacks and were able participate in the fun-filled holiday activities. All the members received a holiday candy bag, cookie, and glass of either hot cocoa or warm spiced cider to enjoy. Afterward members chose to participate in either the candy cane game or the gingerbread house making contest. First, second, third place winners in the both contests received wonderful prizes. Everyone who attended the holiday meeting had a wonderful and exciting time. As a reward for all the hard work of FFA members who received either an A or a B in their agriculture classes, a movie night was held on January 21, 2011. The members got to vote for the movie they would like to see, and then they all found a seat in the school’s theater while the votes were counted. The movie that received the most votes was Toy Story 3. Everyone watched about half of the movie before there was a short intermission in the cafeteria for everyone to come get popcorn, candy and refreshments to enjoy; shortly after everyone was done with their snacks they returned to the theater to finish the movie. The movie night was a huge success, and also shows students that if they work hard they may be rewarded with fun activities. Livingston FFA Chapter Written by Hailey Ward, Chapter Reporter In January, Livingston FFA was determined to renew community support in our program. We looked to Foster Farms to help us
Over the past several months, the Littlerock FFA Chapter held events where members could come get involved and enjoy themselves. On October 29, 2010, the Littlerock Chapter hosted their annual Halloween meeting. Members were able to come to the evening meeting to learn of the new and exciting business our chapter
reach that goal. With the help of our Ag Advisory member, current Vice-President of Foster Farms, Greta Janz, we were lined up for a state-of-the-art V.I.P. tour of the entire operation of Foster Farms. We started the tour on an early Friday morning in January. We took Principal Calderon, Greta Janz, as well as our officer team and Ag teachers. Our first stop of the day was the Hatchery in Waterford,
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Chapter Scoops Continued and who was there to greet us but former state officer Jordan Liptencott’s dad, who led us on the tour. We experienced the process of egg hatching, and were even allowed to hold barely hatched baby chicks. We had a great time and are extremely grateful for the experience! Lodi FFA Chapter Submitted by Courtney Miller, FFA Reporter During the month of November, the Lodi FFA Chapter Officers spent weeks preparing for their Annual Greenhand and Chapter Degree Ceremony. The week started off with the Greenhands making their Official Greenhand shirts to wear the day of and to the Ceremony that night. They also painted one hand green and made their mark on the annual Greenhand sign. The chapter officer team planned numerous games and initiation activities for the Greenhands who were receiving their degrees. All Greenhands participated in the games and had a great time, while enjoying wearing their Green Hand on their forehead. With more than 75 Greenhands present, the Lodi FFA was very excited to welcome so many new and ecstatic members into our chapter! Lone Pine FFA Chapter Written by Allison Wilder, Chapter Reporter Lone Pine FFA has a lot going on with our farm this year! Currently, the Lone Pine High School FFA Farm is home to Kenny the llama, Stanley the alpaca, Layla the donkey, four goats, three miniature horses, two cats and an assortment of chickens. Every year members have different ideas of what projects we want to have at the farm. Last year, top suggestions were peacocks and running ducks, so far this year, Kenny the llama took top prize for best idea for the farm. Our farm was built on the ideas of our members, but the animals are just the beginning. We also have 20 fruit trees, a seasonal livestock unit where we keep sheep and hogs that members are raising for the Junior Livestock Auction, two tractors, a showmanship ring, two gardens and a brand-new Beef Unit. Lone Pine FFA members are always on the move, coming up with ideas, and then trying them out to see what happens. Our advisor Mrs. Lacey always keeps us thinking and tells us in so many ways that if we are willing to work hard, almost anything can work out! Lucerne Valley FFA Chapter Written by Zenia Lopez, Chapter Reporter On September 22, 2010, the Lucerne Valley FFA Chapter put on a unique way for the chapter officers to meet the members of their chapter. The leadership activity was called the Chapter Leadership Workshop or CLW. Each officer put on his or her own workshop for each period during the entire school day. The workshop lasted
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around five minutes where the members were able to learn a life lesson while participating and getting to know each officer. After all the officers had presented their workshop, a skit was performed to reveal the year’s theme: Be the Difference. The members had a fun day meeting each officer personally rather than a quick meet and greet. The day was filled with music, laughter, games, life lessons, and at the very end, ice cream! Nipomo FFA Chapter Written by Riley Nilsen, Chapter Reporter Bright and early Wednesday morning, on December 8, 62 greenhands were initiated into the Nipomo FFA Chapter. They came to dye their hands green, enjoy donuts and take part in a scavenger hunt around the entire campus. The morning was particularly special because three members took the initiation to the next level and dyed their face green for the day. Sean Howell, Logan Elder and Ryan Maness were the three boys who demonstrated that the Nipomo FFA Chapter always goes above and beyond the call of duty. Our greenhands benefited from an eventful morning to kick off the start of their FFA career. That same night, the Chapter held our annual Winter Banquet where the greenhand and chapter degree recipients were recognized. The banquet hall was decorated in sparkling Christmas trees and twinkling lights. The meeting began with opening ceremonies and a dessert potluck. Many families enjoyed a variety of desserts and celebrated taking an important step in their FFA futures. Five members recited the creed, saying one paragraph each and made the chapter proud while reciting our organization’s outline for being a model FFA member. The 62 greenhands received their bronze pins, and the smiles on their faces couldn’t have been more rewarding. The 20 Chapter degree recipients were glad their hard work finally paid off and stoked to finally receive their silver pins. The Winter Banquet was a huge success, and this year our Chapter went above and beyond.
Chapter Scoops Continued
Do you have a Chapter Scoop to share? Send in your Chapter Scoop today! Ask your Chapter Officer Team or advisor to send in a print quality photo along with 100-150 words describing your chapter’s latest news to Michelle Jimenez at caffainsert@yahoo.com.
CA FFA New Horizons Due Dates: August 2011 Material Deadline Date – 5/20/11
the festival, included a variety of animals such as piglets, ducks, dairy calves, pot bellied pigs, tortoises, chickens and rabbits. About 200 children and parents came through the petting zoo throughout the day. Many of the kids enjoyed the rabbits and the piglets. Ripon FFA students look forward to this activity each year because it gives them the opportunity to promote Agriculture and the FFA in a positive way to their community. They also proudly display pictures of what they have already accomplished for the year. San Luis Obispo FFA Submitted by Lauren Huffakerm, Chapter Reporter North Salinas FFA Chapter Written by Victoria Silva, Chapter Reporter At the North Salinas FFA Chapter, we work hard to keep our Ag students involved in as many chapter activities as possible. On the other hand, the school’s ASB Leadership tries to incorporate the FFA Chapter in their school activities as well. The school’s ASB Leadership and our FFA Chapter worked together in a canned food drive in the month of December. A school-wide canned food and toy drive was monitored by the ASB Leadership as they maintained prizes of their own, while the FFA Chapter received cans from Ag students, which earned them activity credits. After a few days of the canned food drive, four FFA Officers and the ASB Leadership took the collected 1,000 cans and 200 toys over to the local news station. There, all the donations were placed in the care of the city’s Salvation Army. Ripon FFA Chapter Written by Nick Thomas, Chapter Reporter Sounds of laughter and children having fun filled the air at the Ripon FFA’s annual Main Street Day Petting Zoo on Saturday, October 16, 2010. During this day, Main Street is packed with
San Luis Obispo High School Animal Science class field trip to Alimo Pintado Equine Medical Center, January 12, 2011, Los Olivos: Nine members from San Luis Obispo High School’s Animal Science Class attended Alimo Pintado Equine Medical Center to tour their unique facilities. While on tour students not only learned about the different parts of a horse, but also about various injuries that can happen through a horse’s life, and about different procedures conducted at Alimo Pintado with their exquisite equipment and facilities. The field trip was a lot of fun and the San Luis Obispo agriculture students enjoyed their “learning to do” experience! Santa Maria FFA Chapter On Saturday, December 11 Santa Maria FFA members rounded up their canned food and headed to the fairgrounds in the annual Salvation Army canned food drive. Members worked for hours and helped raise thousands of cans of food as well as toys. This was part of a two-day community service done by FFA members. On Sunday
booths, displays, food and lots of people enjoying themselves. The free petting zoo, which was located in the children’s area of
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Chapter Scoops Continued the 12 members headed to the Altrusa Festival of Trees event. Dozens of trees were raffled off including the 7-foot Santa Maria FFA tree. Members got the opportunity to meet Altrusa members and then were invited for a special lunch. This year was a great success thanks to FFA members. Soledad FFA Chapter Written by Ryan Sigala, Chapter Reporter “It’s happening in Soledad!” – especially every Thursday. Members of the Soledad FFA are taking a small step in helping the environment, and in the process, raising money to fund scholarships for FFA leadership conferences. The chapter organized a campus-wide recycling program in which recycling stations were placed in every classroom and throughout the facilities of the school. Every Thursday after school, chapter members collect all the aluminum cans, plastic and glass bottles from all the recycling stations on campus. At the end of each month, all the bottles and cans are sorted and taken to the local recycling center. All the money earned is “recycled” back into the chapter in the form of scholarships to help cover the expenses of FFA conferences and activities. Although this is Soledad’s first year participating in this event, it is off to a great start for they have already raised a couple hundred dollars. “Recycling is a great way to help our environment and our chapter members. It’s a win-win situation for everyone involved,” said Chapter President, Andrew Seeley. Soledad FFA is looking forward to continuing this program for many years.
State Officer Farewell continued
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APRIL 2011
ILLINOIS ASSOCIATION FFA
FFA in the Spotlight Meet Your State FFA Reporter, Morgan Ott | F
ILSSO | B
Check out our
website
State CDE Results | D
Announcements | E
What’s Inside This Issue International Leadership Seminar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B State CDE Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D Deadlines, Upcoming Events & Announcements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E Meet Your 2010-2011 State FFA Reporter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F Call to Convention . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G
www.illinoisffa.org
Officers’ Tracks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H
International Title holder Leadership Seminar for State Officers Anxiety, nervousness and a lot of excitement were just a few of the emotions that the five Major State Officers felt as they began their adventure overseas. The officers participated in the International Leadership Seminar for State Officers, ILSSO. On January 3 John, Jake, Morgan, Cody and Jeff boarded the plane to Miami, Fla. After arriving in Miami, the majors decided to visit the city and enjoy the sunshine! After an exciting day, the majors returned to the hotel in Miami where they met other state officers from across the nation for the evening of ILSSO orientation. This evening was just a get-to-know-each-other meeting, and the big orientation took place the following morning. The orientation gave them the chance to prepare themselves for the experience of a lifetime!
cruise they boarded the buses to travel to Melincue, a small town in the middle of the Pampas.
After the orientation on January 5, the excited tourists boarded the airplane for a long flight to Buenos Aires, Argentina. After arriving in the capital, the officers met their Argotours guide and drivers. The groups spent the night and day in Buenos Aires getting accustomed to a new culture, enjoying walking tours of the city and spending some of their first pesos in the little shops. The following morning the group toured three cities: Buenos Aires, Pergamino and Rosario. During the first full day of touring, the group had the chance to visit a farm dedicated to the production of corn, soybeans and wheat.
On January 10, the FFA officers boarded the buses back to Buenos Aires where they visited the Palermo and Barrio Norte districts, which boasted expensive houses and classic architecture. After their visits, the afternoon was free for individual sightseeing and shopping. That evening, the officers had the chance to see some of the best dancers in the country performing old and new variations of the Tango.
On the morning of January 7, the officers took a visit to Terminal 6, one of the largest port terminals, which is owned and operated by three large companies. After the visit to Terminal 6, the group took a cruise on the Parana River to have a panoramic view of the several private ports and crushing industries of the area. During the cruise the officers learned that San Martin region has the highest soybean crushing concentration in the world. After the
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Moving into their fourth day, the officers had the chance to visit the cities of Melincue and Venado Tuerto where they had the opportunity to visit a horse farm. During their visit to the farm, they had the chance to see stallions and mares along with watching some of the training with the colts. This was a neat experience to see how they train their livestock in Argentina compared to how we train our livestock in Illinois.
After a fun and eventful evening, the following day was spent in the U.S. Embassy for a briefing by the Foreign Ag Service staff. After the quick briefing, we boarded the plane to Puerto Iguazu, a small town located at the confluence of the Iguazu and Parana rivers. Once the officers were all settled into the hotel in Puerto Iguazu, the next day was dedicated to visiting the Argentina side of the falls. During this day, the group hopped on a small train that took us to the Devil’s Throat, the largest fall in the whole complex that is approximately 4 miles long. Once we reached the Devil’s Throat, the FFA officers walked to the top of the falls for a very impressive view! During the final two days of the trip traveling by bus and airplane, the officers took a few last opportunities to spend their remaining pesos on gifts for friends and family. The trip definitely turned out to be a life-changing and educational experience. The team experienced the opportunity to study agriculture overseas, develop a great respect for other cultures, and made many new friends and everlasting memories. John, Jake, Morgan, Cody and Jeff would like to once again thank all of the sponsors for making this trip possible. Without the support of their communities, chapters, sections and local businessmen, they would not have learned the significance of global agriculture.
Growing Agricultural Science Teachers “Thanks to educators at JJC who specialize and have experience working in the subjects they teach, I have received an education that will put me a cut above competitors in my future career field.”
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Ad paid for by: GAST GRANT FROM THE ILLINOIS STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION.
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State CDE Results State Food Science Top 5 Chapters:
Top 5 Individuals:
1. Midland
1. Gabbie Dempsey, Unity
2. Unity
2. Mackenzie Buyck, Liberty
3. Liberty
3. Mallory Blunier, Midland
4. Hartsburg-Emden
4. Taylor Streitmatter, Midland
5. Pontiac
5. Josh Carroll, Pontiac
State Ag Sales
State Agronomy
Superior Teams:
Top 5 Teams:
1. Cissna Park
1. Paxton-Buckley-Loda
2. Olney
2. Cumberland
Customer Relations Individuals: 1. Trent Taber, Geneseo 2. Ben Magers, Paxton-Buckley-Loda
Customer Service Individuals: 1. Audrey Burgener, Olney 2. Cole Hasselbring, Cissna Park
Prospecting Individuals: 1. Doug Brutlag, Cissna Park
3. Galva 4. Hartsburg-Emden 5. Prairie Central
Top 5 Individuals: 1. Seth Strom, Galva 2. Lucas Roberts, Farmington 3. Clayton Glazik, Paxton-Buckley-Loda 4. Matt Duesterhaus, Unity-Mendon 5. Jaylynn Maxey, Cumberland
2. Dallas Glazik, Paxton-Buckley-Loda
Host’s Choice Individuals:
State Dairy Foods
1. Kelsie Ochs, Olney
Top 5 Teams:
2. Lauryn Elliott, Oakwood
1. Prairie Central
1. Jason Wenger, Prairie Central
Sales Call Individuals:
2. Seneca
2. Trevor Hartman, Prairie Central
3. Liberty
3. Eli Peterson, Prairie Central
4. Midland
4. Perry Harlow, Seneca
5. Paxton-Buckley-Loda
5. Steven Beisswenger, Seneca
1. Darren Riskedal, Somonauk-Leland 2. Dane Hasselbring, Cissna Park
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Top 5 Individuals:
Deadlines, Upcoming Events & Announcements Deadlines
Who’s Got Talent?
Heritage and Cooperative Activities Due to Section President – March 15, 2011
While driving down the road in the car with Jake, it always seems to be a battle when it comes to the radio. This is most likely due to Jake’s different music selections and his “wonderful” singing. Sometimes he doesn’t even know all the words! Now, as the 83rd State FFA Convention quickly approaches we need your help! If you can sing, dance, play an instrument, tell jokes or have any sort of talent that FFA members would enjoy. You can perform as a solo or group ensemble; whatever is most comfortable for you. Simply send a sample of your performance along with an application. You could be selected to perform during a meal function, the FFA talent showcase or even on stage during a session. Anything will help to keep Jake from his “wonderful” singing. Your talent is the key to shining at our convention!
Outstanding Section President Application Due to Illinois Farm Bureau Youth Dept. – March 28, 2011 National Chapter Award Application Due to State office – May 1, 2011 State Band & Chorus Application Due to State office – April 15, 2011 Chapter President Award Application Due to State office – May 1, 2011 Agriscience Student Award Application Due to State office – May 1, 2011 Century Challenge Award Application Due to State office – May 1, 2011
Prairie Central High School Attends the National Champion Dairy Judging Team Trip to Europe! Prairie Central High School was the 2009 National Dairy Judging Champion at the 82nd National FFA Convention and represented Illinois and the U.S. at the Royal Highland Show in Scotland this past summer during the weeks of June 22- July 6. They also visited many countries throughout Europe including Scotland, England, France, Luxembourg and Germany. Prairie Central High School had the opportunity to judge cows at many stops along their trip and saw countless beautiful sights. They ended the trip with a home stay in Luxembourg. While there, they had the chance to learn about European farming from a family business. Prairie Central High School says, “They made memories for a lifetime and had a lot of fun.” The team consisted of Trent Kilgus, Samantha Ropp, Lyle Schaffer and Micah Zehr. Also attending the trip was Darren Ropp (Coach/Advisor) and his wife, Sandy.
L-R: Lyle Shaffer, Trent Kilgus, Darren Ropp, Sam Ropp and Micah Zehr
Top 10 Reasons to Attend the 83rd State FFA Convention: 10. Participate in exciting workshops! 9. Rub Lincoln’s nose! 8. Splash around at Knights Action Park! 7. Meet a National FFA Officer! 6. Get your groove on at the FFA Dance! 5. Elect your 2011-2012 Major State FFA Officer Team! 4. Get free stuff at the career show! 3. Listen to entertaining and motivational speakers! 2. Meet other FFA members from all over the state! 1. Have the time of your life while attending the 83rd Illinois State FFA Convention!
Attention: All Band and Chorus Members If you are a band or chorus member at your local high school, then the Illinois FFA Band and Chorus wants you! The members of the State FFA Band and Chorus perform on stage at State Convention and have a blast meeting other members from across the state. How can you get involved you might ask? Well all you need to do is send in an application. Throughout convention, the groups will meet, practice and then perform in front of more than 3,000 FFA members and guests!
Thank you
to our “Directors” Our team doesn’t just end with the five of us. There are actually five more wonderful ladies who are always there to help the officers. Whether they are keeping the officers up to date on schedules, sending out mailings, making phone calls, or helping put together materials for workshops, the work that these ladies do is very important to the Illinois FFA. John, Jake, Morgan, Cody and Jeffrey truly appreciate all the work they do throughout the year for this organization. The officers would like to thank them for their countless hours at the office, teaching us how to use the office machines and making our state officer year a little less stressful. Thank you so much for the continuous help and support throughout our year. We appreciate it more than you will ever know!
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Title holder Meet Morgan Ott 2010-2011 State FFA Reporter We have all been hesitant when starting something new. Whether it’s joining a new club at your school or even the FFA. I remember when I was signing up for my freshman year classes and decided to take “Introduction to Agriculture”. I chose that class for many reasons; I lived on a farm and my parents encouraged me to take the class, and secondly, I had a sister in FFA who was also enrolled in agriculture classes. Now those are just a few reasons, but believe me there were many more! Getting started was a struggle for me. I was unsure of what my friends would think of me and what others would say. After my first day in the class my older sister Megan, who many of you may know, asked how I liked it so far. I just told her, “It’s OK.” She then told me about the FFA creed speaking contest and encouraged me to compete in it. Megan also offered to help me. Now Megan usually never said much of anything to me; she usually was busy with her own school activities. So when she said she would help me prepare for the creed, I was excited. I saw how she had grown as a person through the FFA. I then told her I would participate in the creed speaking contest. Each week I would practice saying the creed for Megan and improve myself for the competition coming closer. After competing and going to state in the Creed Speaking competition, I realized something that I never would have realized. My older sister inspired me to get involved and showed me that this FFA organization has blessed me with great leadership, better knowledge about Agriculture, and the guidance down a great path of amazing opportunities. I commend Megan and thank her for the guidance and encouragement she gave me when I was hesitant to join FFA. Not only has Megan been an inspiration to me but my grandmother has as well. My grandma Carolyn was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma Cancer this year. Each day I would call home and ask how grandma was doing. They would tell me each time how she was feeling and how the chemo treatment was going. My grandma’s attitude toward her cancer never changed the way she lives her life. It was then that she showed me that anyone can take whatever life throws at them and learn from it in some way or another. FFA has shown me similar obstacles. Sometimes we are afraid to try new things, whether it’s a new CDE contest or if it’s like my grandma trying a new treatment for her cancer. Each of us will face challenges, but don’t change your attitude and keep stepping up to try new things just as Megan and my Grandma have taught me to keep a positive attitude and don’t be afraid.
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Serving as your State FFA Reporter is a great honor. This opportunity has opened so many new doors and has challenged me to step out of my comfort zone. This year I hope I can inspire my little sister Micah along with over 17,500 FFA members just like my sister Megan and Grandma have inspired me. FFA members, take each opportunity this amazing organization has to offer to you. It will take you on a great journey that starts NOW, cherish each opportunity that comes your way … I know I have, now it’s your turn! Good luck and God Bless, Morgan Ott
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Call to Convention Illinois FFA!
It’s time to get pumped and ready for the 83rd Annual State FFA Convention! We’ve gathered our cast and crew, brought in the best in the business, and now we’re ready to sell out the box office with our red carpet reveal of “FFA in the Spotlight”! You won’t want to miss this grand opening as thousands of blue jackets from across the state gather at the Prairie Capital Convention Center June 14-16, 2011! Jake, Morgan, Cody, Jeff and I have worked all year to bring you this grand opening, and we know it’ll have something for everyone to enjoy. To kick off convention, we’ve got an amazing Day of Service planned to bring together members from across the state and show our dedication to community service by helping out various sites throughout the city. And after that, we’ve planned six sessions jam packed with amazing speakers, talented FFA members performing in the FFA Band and Chorus, Retiring Addresses from your 2010-2011 Major State Officers, recognition of our amazing chapters and their accomplishments throughout the year, FFA talent, and even a keynote address from one of your 2010-2011 National Officers! When you’re not in one of these amazing sessions, be sure to head downstairs at the PCCC to check out the career show and FFA mall! And when the convention center closes its doors each night, the fun doesn’t stop there. The annual FFA dance will be held at the Illinois State Fairgrounds, and there are many other historical sites and fun entertainment for your chapter to take part in during your stay at the state capital. Springfield is getting prepared to be flooded with the blue and gold, so pack your bags and get ready to come to the biggest event of the year. Everything else is in place, all we need is you! In Blue & Gold, John C. Edgar 2010-2011 State FFA President
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Officers’ Tracks Illinois Farm Bureau Annual Meeting (Dec. 4-6) The five Major State Officers traveled to St. Louis, Mo. to attend the Illinois Farm Bureau Annual Meeting. The officers served as flag bearers during the opening session. Throughout the meeting, the officers heard from keynote speakers, watched the Young Leader’s discussion meet, listened in on award ceremonies and attended the VIP luncheon. While in St. Louis, the officers had time to enjoy touring the city along with doing some Christmas shopping! Thank you, President Nelson and Mrs. Dale-Anderson for a great few days at the Illinois Farm Bureau Annual Meeting.
State Agronomy and Dairy Foods CDE John, Jake, Morgan, Cody and Jeff headed to Urbana to the University of Illinois for the State Agronomy and Dairy Foods CDE on December 12. At the CDE, they helped with registration and coordinated a collection of care packages for our troops overseas. During the CDE the majors were able to see the FFA members compete in various crops, soils, weeds, milk samples,
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cheeses and everything else associated with each of the two Career Development Events. Once the contest was over, the majors had a chance to visit with FFA members, which is always a great highlight of the trip!
December State Officer Meeting The five majors, along with 25 section presidents and three state staff, met in Springfield, Ill. on December 18 and 19 to hold their December State Officer Meeting. During this meeting, the officers were excited to participate in round-table discussions with the Illinois Pork Producers. Kaitlin Weitekamp also presented a workshop about the “Life of a State Officer” and another on professionalism. After the meeting concluded, the State Officer Team gathered for a Christmas Party where a good time was had by all!
International Leadership Seminar for State Officers (Jan. 3-15) John, Jake, Morgan, Cody and Jeff packed their suitcases and boarded the plane to Argentina on January 3 for an unforgettable experience! The amazing opportunity included visits to Buenos Aires, Pergamino, Rosario, Melincue, Venado Tuerto and many more cities!