February 2011, FFA New Horizons

FFA

new horizons l o g o n at f fa n at i o n . f fa . o r g

速

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

Infinite Potential Scenes and stories from the 83rd National FFA Convention

Here By the Owl Dr. Larry Case retires after 26 years as National FFA Advisor

Create a profile. Add friends. Start a group. Voice your opinions. ffanation.ffa.org

ffa

Volume 58 Number 3

new horizons

®

February 2011

The magazine of the National FFA Organization

Kim Newsom HOLMBERG

jessy yancey

Julie woodard

Kristy Meyer

RAVEN PETTY

DUSTIN PETTY

Christina Carden

KRIS SEXTON, CANDICE SWEET,

VIKKI WILLIAMS Chandra bradshaw, yamel hall, Alison hunter, marcus snyder

jeffrey s. otto

Jeff adkins, Brian McCord todd bennett, antony boshier

Yancey turturice

Richard Stevens

Tori Hughes

CHRIS DUDLEY

Cindy Hall

Rachael Goldsberry

Kristy duncan

Katie Middendorf

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

Contents

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 Integrated Media Manager Controller Sales Support Manager Sales Support Executive Secretary Ad Production Manager Ad Traffic Assistant Accounting Distribution Director Marketing Creative Director Executive Vice President Sr. V.P./Sales Sr. V.P./Operations V.P./External Communications V.P./Visual Content V.P./Content Operations

For advertising information, contact 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

dwight armstrong

Marion Fletcher

Mark Cavell, Dale Crabtree,

BILL FLEET, Janet Maloney,

Rob Cooper, Kent schescke, Vicki settle, lee anne shiller,

Tony Small, Bill stagg,

will waidelich

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

6 cover story

Executive Secretary Chief Executive Officer National Treasurer Division Directors

National FFA Board of Directors – Members

Steve Brown 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.

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Scrapbook

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FFA Faces

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

Please recycle this magazine

After 26 years as the National FFA Advisor, Dr. Larry D. Case retires.

Infinite Potential

FFA alumnus reflects on national FFA conventions past, present and future.

Read news, jokes and more.

Learn about members’ achievements.

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National Officer Q & A

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News from National FFA

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Back Talk

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.

Here by the Owl

Meet National President Riley Pagett.

Win cash for college or a trip to the U.S. capital.

Ride along with NASCAR driver Justin Lofton.

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On the Cover Dr. Larry D. Case addresses the 83rd National FFA Convention for his final Advisor’s Challenge.

Photo By Jeff Adkins

ffanation.ffa.org

FFA

New Horizons

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FFA scrapbook

Express yourself

54,942 FFA members, advisors and guests attended the 83rd National FFA Convention – setting an all-time attendance record!

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Pumpkins for the President Few Americans have the opportunity to take a private tour of the White House, and even fewer can say they’ve delivered pumpkins there. Virginia FFA past state officers Austin Larrowe and Morgan Slaven have, and for them, it was an opportunity of a lifetime.

“Driving through Washington, D.C., in a Ford pickup with a livestock trailer was only the beginning of our adventure,” Austin says.

He and Morgan had to clear two security checks before being allowed on the grounds with their delivery of 100 fresh Virginia pumpkins, but were later rewarded with a private White House tour.

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colleges, universities and technical schools exhibited at the National FFA Agricultural Career Show during the national FFA convention. Learn more about these schools at www. ffanation.ffa.org/ convention2010.

Just Joking What is the definition of a goose?

An animal that grows down as it grows up!

What do you give a pony with a cold?

Cough Stirrup!

What animal always goes to bed with its shoes on?

A horse!

ffanation.ffa.org

Good Wood Work When Cy-Fair FFA advisor Michele Rumfield realized her Texas chapter’s podium was falling apart and they would need a new one, she offered the project to senior Jake Dumaine. Jake has worked at his father’s cabinet shop for the last three years, so he knew how to draw the plans, transfer the plans to parts and put the parts on a CAD software program. He ran the parts out in the shop on a CNC router, and did all the work himself. To make the podium even more unique and special to the chapter, he gold-leafed the engravings of the FFA emblem.

Jake helped unveil the podium at the chapter’s spring banquet, and he received Grand Champion for wood projects at the Harris County Fair in Houston for his work.

FYI

A Call for Convention Content Throughout this issue, you’ll read accounts of the 83rd National FFA Convention, but we want to hear your stories from the event. Visit FFA Nation (ffanation.ffa.org) to upload your photos to our national FFA convention photo galleries, and post answers to our convention-related questions in the Discussions section. If you’ve never visited FFA Nation before, you’ll need to sign up for a profile first!

Your Turn

Learning About Irrigation

The Sand Springs FFA Chapter from Oklahoma brought 60 members to the 83rd National FFA Convention. Upload your chapter’s photos from the convention to FFA Nation for your chance to be featured in FFA New Horizons magazine! ffanation.ffa.org

The Centreville FFA chapter in Michigan has a new irrigation system on its 40-acre learning land laboratory, thanks to area farmers who have donated pipe and a fivetower pivot. FFA alumni have helped to move and reconstruct the system, bury the pipe, secure electrical service and teach students how to use the technology.

Centreville FFA members are actively involved in the planting and harvesting of their crops, as well as in learning about marketing and commodity management.

Now, thanks to local support, they can learn about irrigation, too.

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

FFA

New Horizons

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FFA Faces

Stand Out in the Crowd 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.

Describe

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

Phillip Lorch

IA

Chapter: Hartley-Melvin-Sanborn FFA

ID

Chapter: Burley FFA

TX

Chapter: Spring Branch FFA

This FFA chapter president has shown the Grand Champion meat pen rabbits at the chapter level for three consecutive years and has exhibited the grand champion market lamb as well. Cody also plays high school baseball, is a member of Boy Scouts, and also enjoys working on his truck and performing community service projects.

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WA

Christy says one of her greatest FFA achievements was creating a chapter newsletter to send out to more than 100 community members. She now serves as editor of the newsletter, as well as her chapter’s FFA president. After high school, she plans to attend Washington State University to double major in agricultural education and communications.

Chelsey Jurkovac

CA

Chapter: Littlerock FFA

Jacob has placed on the state level in the soil and land evaluation, parliamentary procedure and prepared public speaking CDEs. A high school senior, he also serves as chapter reporter and district vice president. In the future, he plans to serve a two-year mission for his church and attend college to study economics and political science.

Cody Matecki

Christy Poirier Chapter: Waitsburg FFA

This high school senior has served as his chapter’s sentinel and is currently serving as chapter vice president. Phillip shows beef cattle at the Osceola County Fair and also participates in livestock judging at the fair, along with other FFA career development events (CDEs). After graduating from high school, he plans to attend South Dakota State University.

Jacob Lake

Upload

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

This high school senior has served as an officer for her chapter for three years and is currently the reporter. Chelsey says that she was motivated to join FFA after watching her older sister, Sandy, experience the organization. After graduating, Chelsey plans to enroll in college and major in animal science to achieve her longtime goal of becoming a veterinarian.

Kaci McAfee

IL

Chapter: Southwestern FFA

Kaci has been a member of her chapter’s livestock judging team for three years and has shown Hereford cattle since she was 10 years old. She received the FFA Star Greenhand award her freshman year and also plays basketball and volleyball for her high school. After high school, she plans to attend college and become an optometrist.

ffanation.ffa.org

Here by

the Owl After 26 years of offering knowledge and wisdom as the national FFA advisor, Dr. Larry D. Case retires

Story By Kim Newsom Holmberg Photography By Antony Boshier

D

uring the final session of the 83rd National FFA Convention last October, the official FFA opening ceremonies took a little longer than usual.

The reason why? When Dr. Larry D. Case said, “Here by the Owl” for the final time as the national FFA advisor, the crowd stood, cheered and clapped for what Dr. Case describes as “a really long time.”

“It was really a touching experience,” he remembers. “It was one of those moments that made me think, maybe I really have made a difference in someone’s life.”

Most current and past FFA members would agree that Dr. Case had made a tremendous difference in their lives, perhaps directly through his speeches during the convention, or indirectly through his role in helping shape the future of FFA and agricultural education. During his 45-year career in agricultural

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education, Case has served as a local teacher and FFA advisor, director of agricultural education for Missouri, a national education program specialist for the U.S. Department of Education, and his most recognized role, 26 years as national FFA advisor.

“One of my goals as national FFA advisor was to be seen as a regular guy,” Case says. “I wanted the students to not just see me as the national advisor, but rather as their national advisor.”

Working toward that goal has often meant lessons in pop culture or staying “with the times,” he says. Case remembers one such experience, where he says his “cool factor” went up a few degrees.

“Back in 1997, Ray Starling, a national FFA officer from North Carolina, asked me if I knew what ‘raise the roof’ meant. And I didn’t,” he recollects. “So, after explaining it to me, Ray said that he thought I

should do that during the convention, and that the kids would go nuts if I did. I told him I would take it under advisement.”

During one of the opening convention sessions, Case decided to surprise the national officers, and when he went onstage, he “raised the roof.” As expected, the crowd went wild, and for the rest of the convention, every time Case spoke, he – and the audience – raised the roof.

Since then, FFA members have honored Case in many creative ways, “hooting” like owls whenever he’s near or printing his face on chapter t-shirts.

“I’ve always been fairly relaxed – that’s just me,” he laughs. “I’ve tried to be genuine, and I think the FFA members respond well to that – the teachers do, too.”

A favorite part of the national FFA convention for many members and advisors is the National FFA Advisor Challenge during the opening

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session. And for his final challenge, Dr. Case offered up words of wisdom based on his own FFA experiences – as a member, an alumnus, a local advisor and the national advisor. A portion of that speech is below: Infinite Potential! I love our new theme because it sums up perfectly what each and every FFA member has.

Think about it. You have potential.

You have possibility. You can become anything you want to be, accomplish any goal you set.

The dictionary says that “potential” is an ability that may – or may not – be developed. Only you can choose to become all you can. As the

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Army says, “Be all you can be.” Or as Nike says, “Just do it.” FFA members, I want to know … are you ready to get out there and just do it?

Infinite potential! I love that word, “infinite.” It means unlimited.

Without bounds. Endless. Goes on forever. And that describes the potential you have within you.

Many years ago I was in exactly the same place you are today. More years than I care to count, to be honest!

One day I enrolled in an agriculture class and put on a blue corduroy jacket. Before I knew it, I became reporter for my chapter. Then, somehow, I got elected president. I had

no idea what I would become or what I wanted to do. But my FFA advisor saw something in me. He saw that I had potential. Unlimited potential. He helped me understand that if I invest my time and put out the effort, I could follow my heart and become the person I wanted to be.

I didn’t know any better, so I took him seriously. That’s when things really took off. My personal journey has carried me to a lifetime of working on behalf of agricultural education. But of all the things I’ve accomplished, you know what I’m most proud of? Being your national FFA advisor. Being with students who amaze me with their talent ffanation.ffa.org

During his 45 years of service to agricultural education and FFA, Dr. Larry D. Case has inspired students, teachers, alumni and FFA supporters alike.

His cheerful demeanor, fun personality and inspirational messages have made him a truly memorable national FFA advisor.

makes me glad to be where I am today.

FFA members, it took someone special to see the potential in me. It took my agriculture teacher to help me understand I could do more than I thought I could. And that’s the way it goes sometimes. Those ag teachers are pretty special, aren’t they?

Here’s something I’ve learned after 45 years of working at this – FFA and agricultural education can change your life. They will absolutely make a difference for you and everyone around you. Agricultural education and FFA members are exactly what we need today. You are helping to build communities and providing for the

ffanation.ffa.org

future and security of this nation. Of our world! Be proud of that work. Be proud of who you are and what you represent.

I am thankful, FFA members, for you. Every day you have given me your encouragement and support. In my life, you are the rising sun that comes streaming through my window.

You are truly the new era in agriculture. You inspire me with your courage to try new things and your willingness to help others. I could not have done this without you. Thank you for enriching my life. Thank you for your love and kindness. I will never, ever forget you.

Of all the advice I could give you,

let me offer this: Do what you love, love what you do. Follow your heart and be true to yourself.

FFA members – know this: I’m proud of you. I believe in you. And, I expect the very best from each and every one of you.

ffanewhorizons.org Visit ffanation.ffa.org to watch videos of Dr. Case’s past speeches and interviews, plus post your comments and thankyou messages to Dr. Case in honor of his retirement.

FFA

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FFA National Officer

Q&A a week long and consists of five rounds of interviews, speech development and delivery, workshop facilitation, tests and essays. I honestly did not even hear my name called at the final session. All I heard was, “From the great state of Oklahoma,” and I ran onto stage to meet my new teammates.

It felt good to realize that I would be serving members who had come before me, members currently involved in FFA and all of the members to come.

Q

During the election process, you said that your mission this year is to be a

“seed planter.” What does that mean?

A

My primary goal this year is to plant seeds of inspiration and hope inside every member I meet. My teammates

and I will be able to share this message with FFA members by remembering that every hand we shake, every smile we give, every

FYI

speech we deliver, and every workshop we

Riley

Pagett

Riley’s Faves Meet Riley once, and you’ll know instantly that he’s a fun person to be around, with plenty of quirks! For example, he has a bucket list of 75 things he hopes to do in his lifetime, and one of them is to meet Reba McEntire, his favorite singer. Learn more interesting facts about this Oklahoma native.

Favorite food: Enchiladas Candy: Skittles Smell: Fresh woodchips Color: OSU orange Sport: College football

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National FFA President Your new national FFA president calls Woodward, Okla., home, where five generations of his family have lived and

facilitate will impact the lives of every member, sponsor or supporter in some way.

Q

National FFA Week is coming up. Do you have any ideas for FFA members

to implement in their own chapters?

A

I would encourage every FFA member to wear their FFA official dress to school at some point during National FFA

Week. There is no greater conversation starter

where he says he was raised on mashed

than the blue corduroy jacket. Wearing

potatoes, dirt roads, country music and the

official dress to school and around town

Bible. Learn more about Riley and what he

allows students to share their FFA stories.

has in store for the coming year.

Q

Can you walk us through your experience in the national FFA

officer selection process?

A

Each FFA association can send one national officer candidate to the national FFA convention each year.

Q

Is there anything else you want the FFA membership to know about their

new national FFA president?

A

I enjoy Sunday mornings. I drink my pop and tea through a straw most of the time. It helps keep teeth white. I

believe it is okay to have more than one best

In 2010, 36 candidates went through the

friend. I love registered Angus cattle. I was

national officer selection process, which is

born on the 4th of July. ffanation.ffa.org

Realizing Infinite

Potential FFA alumnus reflects on national FFA conventions past, present and future

Story by Dustin Petty

I

have a tendency to be crotchety

Knowing that I’m surrounded by

at times. Some might even dare

young men and women who are full of

Greenhand in the Standish-Sterling

to say pessimistic.

optimism for the future of agriculture

FFA Chapter in Michigan. From there,

Oh, fine.

and the American community is

I served as a state officer, a member

I can make Glee’s Sue Sylvester

rejuvenating, and a feeling that I

of the Michigan FFA Alumni Council

can’t put into words. For a short

and have been lucky to intern in the

time, my inner Sue is subdued.

national FFA convention newsroom

look like a sugarplum fairy.

But this all changed when I spotted my first corduroy jacket at the 83rd National FFA Convention.

This wasn’t my first time around the organization.

In 1999, I started as an FFA

for three years.

I began my time at the 2010

Conseco Fieldhouse, site of many national FFA convention sessions

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ffanation.ffa.org

One national FFA convention attendee gives his experience ‘two thumbs up.’

convention by attending a 75th anniversary celebration of the New Farmers of America’s (NFA) creation.

The NFA was an organization formed 1927 in Virginia for AfricanAmerican young men. In almost every way it was an equal counterpart to the Future Farmers of America, but with a different racial makeup. In 1965, NFA and FFA merged.

At the celebration were distinguished NFA alumni. There were men who had gone onto become decorated soldiers, noteworthy educators and policy makers. They are grandfathers now with more than a few gray hairs between them, but they spoke with such pride of their involvement in NFA. They also spoke of the present and how it seemed, at times, impossible to imagine.

“When I look at today’s convention,” says A.D. Pinson, 19641965 NFA President, “I can look and say there is an African American presence in the Future Farmers of America. I can look and say there are women serving as officers of the Future Farmers of America.”

The national convention offered more than a chance to commemorate the past. Members also had the chance to prepare for diverse futures. At the annual career show, more than 80 colleges and technical schools were on-hand to show what they could offer FFA members.

Also at the Indiana Convention Center were workshops developed to allow students to examine personal development and future career success. Interviewing skills, seeds, diversity, law, agricultural policy and entrepreneurship were all highlighted topics.

Meanwhile, during the convention sessions, it was

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Official FFA delegates eagerly await the announcement of the new national officers during the final session.

Convention attendees visit the FFA Shopping Mall, where FFA apparel, gifts, school supplies and more were for sale.

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Hosting the convention in downtown Indianapolis allows FFA members to explore the city.

FFA members compete in national career development events, held at the Indiana state fairgrounds.

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Convention attendees give back to the Indianapolis area by participating in the FFA Days of Service.

The National FFA Agricultural Career Show offers hands-on experiences.

Past NFA member recites the NFA creed during the opening sessions.

2010-11 National FFA Officers

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impossible to be a negative Nancy

As long as that person believes

what they and succeeding

with laser shows and performances

in the future of agriculture and

generations worked so hard to

from the FFA choir and band and

strives to be a leader, FFA is open

create – the promise of better days

guest speakers!

to us all – regardless of our

through better ways. They would

backgrounds, beliefs, race or

see the difference that FFA

even connection to agriculture.

members make in their schools and

Keynote speaker Judson Laipply motivated members with his Evolution of Dance, while

I often wonder what those 33

communities and country. They

Kevin Carroll and Angela Mayfield

original farm boys who formed our

would see 54,942 people from all

inspired members with personal

organization would think if they

walks of life coming together under

saw the membership ranks today.

one corduroy banner.

experiences. Opening sessions speaker Josh Shipp told the audience that, “You do not have to be perfect to make a difference; you have to be

I like to think they’d be overjoyed that so many can enjoy

Does it get much better?

Take that, Sue Sylvester.

willing to make a difference.”

This was not your grandfather’s national convention. Yes, traditions were kept – FFA stars and proficiency winners were honored, and thousands of members received their American Degrees. But in addition to seeing the best in young production agriculture, our members learned to become leaders in all industries and on a national stage.

As convention came to an end, six new individuals made a promise to serve more than half a million members: Riley Pagett of Oklahoma, Landon Schaffert of Colorado, Tiffany Rogers of Michigan, Wyatt DeJong of South Dakota, James Flatt of Tennessee and Shannon Norris of New Mexico were elected as the 20102011 National FFA Officer team.

The new team will travel thousands of miles, meet numerous FFA members, and face the challenge of advocating the importance of American agriculture in the new century. I don’t envy their task, but knowing that they are doing it gives me optimism and makes it very hard to be my old crotchety self.

After 11 years of being around the blue corduroy, I had finally discovered what it was that made me enjoy the organization so much.

FFA is for everybody. ffanation.ffa.org

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FFA News

Win Something!

Your Chance to Win

Enter now to win free boots, a trip to Washington, D.C., or FFA scholarships

A Day For Agriculture Where will you be on March 15? If you keep reading, you might be in Washington, D.C., taking part in the National Ag Day celebration.

The Agricultural Council of America (ACA) is hosting an Ag Day Essay Contest, and the winners will receive a trip to our nation’s capital to be recognized during the Celebration of Ag Dinner on National Ag Day. There are two contests – a written essay contest and a video essay one, both using the topic “American Agriculture: Your Food.

Your Farmer.”

The contest rules, instructions and application form are available at www.agday.org. Go quick – the essays must be received at the ACA office by Feb. 4!

One Click To Win

By now, you probably know about FFA Nation, the official social network for the National FFA Organization. But did you know that you can win great prizes, just by signing up for FFA Nation and creating a profile?

During the month of February, visit FFA Nation (ffanation.ffa.org) to sign up for your chance to win a pair of Justin boots. We’ll be awarding three pairs of men’s boots and three pair of women’s boots. To sign up for the giveaway, visit ffanation.ffa.org and look for the Justin Boots giveaway button on the homepage!

Cash For College

It’s time to put your FFA leadership positions, supervised agricultural experiences (SAE), and community service projects to new use! Those experiences can help you win cash for college, through the National FFA Organization scholarship program, which awards $2 million each year in scholarships to FFA members and agricultural education students.

Scholarships are sponsored by businesses and individuals through the National FFA Foundation and are given for a wide variety of experiences, career goals and higher education plans.

They are available to high school seniors and students Visit already in college, and the application is completely ffanation.ffa.org for an online-exclusive online! article with tips Visit www.ffa.org to look through the available on making your application shine. scholarships and to apply. All scholarship applications are due Feb. 15.

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ffanation.ffa.org

FFA Back Talk

Former members Reflect

Justin

Lofton NASCAR truck driver has

roots in FFA and agriculture

and now truck racing. It’s been a seven-year process to get where I am now.

Q

How do you think FFA has influenced your racing career?

A

It’s done a lot. First, I believe that what FFA stands for is really solid. Leadership skills – that’s what you are as the driver.

You have to keep team morale up and make good decisions for the racing team. Public speaking is also obviously a big deal for NASCAR drivers, since we do a lot of interviews.

Q

What type of work did you do on your family’s ranch?

A

I did pretty much every job my dad wanted me to, which often meant checking cattle or clearing land to build pens. Right after high school, my dad and I opened a mineral mixing plant, so I spent a lot of time working in that business, too. I think working together on the ranch created a close bond between me and my dad. Now, he flies to every one of my races, all the way from California.

Former California FFA member and NASCAR rookie Justin Lofton p h o t o b y L e s l e y A n n M i ll e r

J

ustin Lofton sees a lot of similarities between production agriculture and auto-racing. Both require specific technical skills, a willingness to work hard and a go-getter attitude. Lofton, who just completed his rookie season in the NASCAR truck series, knows all about both. He grew up on his parents’ beef cattle ranch in California, learning about agriculture firsthand. Lofton also took animal science classes in his high school and was an active member of the Brawley FFA Chapter. But in his spare time, he pursued his dream of racing in the NASCAR series.

Q

How did you get started in racing?

A

I raced mountain bikes and BMX until I was 16.

Then I bought a hill-climb car and did some races in Colorado, including Pikes Peak. I also got into desert racing, and then eventually, into late model cars

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Q

Was FFA a positive experience for you?

A

I’m so glad I did FFA and really happy that my mom encouraged and pushed me to join. Even though I was an active member in my chapter, I never attended the national FFA convention until 2010 – as a part of the Toyota booth in the career show. I did get to meet up with my FFA advisor, Michelle Taylor, for dinner, so that was a nice walk down memory lane.

Q

What advice do you have for FFA members who have big dreams, like you did?

A

My biggest advice is to work hard. Have good work ethic and take chances. I had to move 3,000 miles away from home to pursue my NASCAR dream. I was 21 years old and didn’t have a job waiting for me, but I knew that racing was my passion, and I needed to chase it. I’m a firm believer that big risks equal big rewards. 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.

February 2011

ILLINOIS ASSOCIATION FFA FFA in the Spotlight Meet Your State FFA Secretary, Cody Gill | F

Chapter Visits | B

Check out our

website

Convention Results | D

Officers’ Tracks | G

What’s Inside This Issue Chapter Visits Review & Upcoming Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B State CDE Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C National Convention Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-E Meet Your 2010-2011 State FFA Secretary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F Officers’ Tracks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G-H

www.illinoisffa.org

Title holder Chapter Visits Throughout the months of September and October John, Jake, Morgan, Cody and Jeff conducted chapter visits at each chapter in Illinois. These visits were presented to Greenhand FFA members or Introduction to Agriculture students. During the visits, the members took part in an FFA game called AgriStar where the students would answer

FFA members play FFA memory with all the FFA acronyms.

numerous Agriculture and FFA questions. The students also took part in leadership activities and also set goals for themselves to shoot for during their years in the FFA organization.

Also during the weeks of Chapter Visits, the officers delivered keynote addresses and workshops during the Section Leadership Training Schools. The five majors had a blast during their two months and the members seemed to learn a lot about Agriculture and the FFA while having a little fun!

FFA members play Agri-Star, a game similar to Jeopardy.

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Issues – State Ag y 12, 2011 Februar w– b Intervie o J e t a t S

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eats – State M 1 y 26, 201 Februar ultry – State Po 1 y 26, 201 Februar

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FFA members from Section 17 take in information about serving as Chapter Vice-President during their Leadership Training School.

State CDE Results State Horse Judging CDE

Abingdon

Kaitlyn Dudding, Newark

Superior Teams, Reasons Division:

Oregon

Megan Richter, Forreston

Somonauk-Leland

Kelly Robinson, Peotone

Hardin County Midland

Other Top Teams, Reasons Division: Vienna Monticello Pontiac Peotone Eureka Bureau Valley Oregon

Heyworth

State Forestry CDE

Forreston

Superior Teams:

Edwardsville

Prairie Central

Indian Creek

Mahomet-Seymour

Central-Burlington

Other Top Teams:

Seneca

Cumberland

Superior Individuals, Non-Reasons Division:

Olney

Jesse Haynes, Abingdon

Rollin Wenger, Prairie Central

Cassie Rogers, Somonauk-Leland Emillee Atkinson, Hardin County

Goreville

Susie Thompson, Central-Burlington

Marion

Kristen Culkin, Iroquois West

Herscher

Jessie Weaver, Oregon

Stewardson-Strasburg

Kelsey Davis, Heyworth

Nashville

Joanna Bollinger, West Prairie

Superior Individuals, Reason Division: Linzey Huey, Peotone

Jessica Hall, Georgetown-Ridge B.J. Austin, Hardin County

Superior Individuals: Katie Adams, Prairie Central Amy Brandt, Mahomet-Seymour Devan Henderson, Cumberland Alex Lourash, Mahomet-Seymour Jaylynn Maxey, Cumberland Kaleb Snider, Olney Hailey Miller, Mahomet-Seymour Bri Urfer, Olney Chris Ruholl, Cumberland

Austin Kocher, Midland Chelsea Cornell, Hardin County Ashley Adams, Midland Keri Weaver, Oregon Dustin Davis, Monticello Cadv Ross, Vienna Abbie McCabe, Monticello Stetson Fox, Vienna

Superior Teams, Non-Reasons Division: Hardin County

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“Infinite Title holder Potential!” – 83rd National FFA Convention Results Congratulations to all national winners!

National Proficiency Winners

Prairie Central:

Congratulations to the following National Proficiency Winners!

Silver – Dairy Cattle Evaluation

Agricultural Communications:

Silver – Forestry

Gold – Ag Mechanics 5th Place – Dairy Foods

Amelia Martens, Orion FFA Chapter

Tri-Point:

Agricultural Mechanics Repair and Maintenance Entrepreneurship:

Fieldcrest:

Justin Thomas, Charleston FFA Chapter

7th Place – Livestock Evaluation Gold – Meats Evaluation and Technology Cisna Park:

Diversified Agriculture Production:

Silver – Environmental and Natural Resources

Tyler Loschen, Tri-Point FFA Chapter

Unity-Mendon:

Diversified Crop Production Entrepreneurship:

Silver – Food Science and Technology Glenbrook South:

Hayden Byars, Cisne FFA Chapter Grain Production Placement: Aaron Prins, Geneseo FFA Chapter Small Animal Production and Care: Jessica Both, Seneca FFA chapter

National CDE Results Midland FFA: Silver – Ag Communications Silver – Ag Issues

OTO FINISH HERE Silver – Ag Sales

Silver – Horse Evaluation Paxton-Buckley-Loda: 10th Place – Agronomy Silver – Farm Business Management Silver – Nursery and Landscape Bronze – Marketing Plan 8th Place – Poultry Evaluation D D •• ILLINOIS ILLINOIS FFA FFA

Silver – Floriculture Congratulations to Jacob Miller from the Geneseo FFA Chapter for receiving a Bronze in the National FFA Creed Speaking CDE. Congratulations to Clayton Carley from the Cisna Park FFA Chapter for receiving Silver in the National Extemporaneous Speaking CDE. Congratulations to Evan Rich from the Pontiac FFA Chapter for receiving Silver in National Prepared Public Speaking.

Congratulations to Olivia Harris from the Heyworth FFA Chapter for receiving Bronze in National Job Interview.

Agriscience Fair Biochemistry/Food Science/Microbiology: Division Four – Taylor Strehl and Connor Strehl, Stillman Valley FFA Chapter, 1st place Engineering: Division One – Sarah Hempen, Waterloo FFA Chapter, 1st place

Continued

Chelsey Baker, Section 23 President carried the Illinois flag during a session at the 83rd National FFA Convention.

Illinois FFA member, Jacob Dickey playing for National FFA Band during the 83rd National FFA Convention!

Pontiac FFA members receive National Chapter Award.

Jessica Both from the Seneca FFA Chapter receiving her plaque for winning the National Proficiency area in Small Animal Production and Care.

Southwestern FFA Chapter displays a booth for the Illinois Association FFA. At their booth, FFA members played a Jeopardy game and got to learn about what the Illinois Association FFA does throughout their association. Thank you, Southwestern FFA Chapter for displaying a wonderful booth at the 83rd National FFA Convention!

Amelia Martens from the Orion FFA Chapter receiving her plaque for winning the National Proficiency in the area of Agricultural Communications.

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Title holder Meet Cody Gill 2010-2011 State FFA Secretary

Music has been a big part of my life. When I was still in grade school I played the trumpet for my school’s band.

We had nine kids who played an instrument one year, our highest number ever, and we were one of the best bands in our county. After our year was up, five out of the nine kids went on to high school and the band was forced to quit.

When I got to high school I didn’t join the band because it had been four to five years since I touched my trumpet.

Instead of band, I joined other clubs and organizations such as sports, student council, scholar bowl, FFA and our school’s youth group (FCA).

The first activity on the schedule was football. I decided to follow in my father’s footsteps and try to own this game, just like he did when he was still in school. Well, after a summer full of two practices a day our season finally started my freshman year. I wasn’t a starter, and I would get to play the last five minutes of a game, if I was lucky. I felt that all those practices I went to were a waste of time. I could have been working or trying harder at FFA if football wasn’t taking all my time. Then it was fall and the next sport started up, basketball. I went to all the open gyms and practices. Then try outs came around and I tried my hardest, I wanted to be a Nashville Hornet basketball player! Once try-outs were over, I ran to the list to see who all made the team and my name was not on the list. I was upset, I should have made the team. I mean I gave it my all, and I guess it just wasn’t good enough.

After getting cut from the team I had more free time. I started to focus more on FFA. I participated in Greenhand quiz bowl and helped my team win first place! My advisor then got me going on public speaking CDEs such as the Creed speaking contest and extemporaneous public speaking. The more I competed, the more I liked FFA. Everyone was just like me, it didn’t matter how tall or short you were everyone made the team. No one was “cut” in FFA. At the end of my freshman year, I received more awards at our banquet than I could ever imagine. The award that motivated me the most was the STAR Greenhand award. After winning this I knew what “activity” I would be doing my next three years of high school, and look I’m still involved in FFA. Who knows how long you can help with the FFA? This organization is for anyone and everyone! You may not be the smartest student or the tallest basketball player, but you can be a STAR FFA member. Even if you are that all-star football player, you can still participate in FFA.

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Just because sports didn’t work out for me doesn’t mean they won’t work for you. Once I got to my senior year in high school I discovered my rhythm. I picked up the guitar and drums, I was in the school’s play, student council, and I was still active in FFA. FFA members there are many different things that life throws at us. We can take some and leave some, but what will we do take make sure you can balance it. Don’t just be in something to make it look good on a resume and do the bare minimum. From the words of John Wesley, “Do all the good you can. By all the means you can. In all the ways you can. At all the times you can. To all the people you can. As long as you can.”

Officers’ Tracks

State Horse CDE

On Saturday, September 18, Jake, Jeff and Morgan attended the State Horse Career Development Event at Black Hawk East College in Kewanee. During the contest the members placed eight different classes of horses. The officers learned a lot about judging horses and had a great time talking to FFA members from across the state.

Beginning Ag Teachers Conference

On October 8 and 9, the majors were able to make it back into Decatur for the Beginning Ag Teachers Conference. This conference concentrated on new ideas and other exciting activities for first-year teachers to get their chapters involved in.

On Saturday, each major state officer presented on a certain topic; these topics included chapter banquet, conventions and conferences, FFA week activities and promotions, officer training and retreats, and membership recruitment and retention. The conference was definitely worthwhile, and the new teachers went home with plenty of new information and ideas for their chapter and its members.

The 83rd National FFA Convention

National FFA Convention was a blast for the five majors and the 10 section president delegates! National Convention started with a pre-convention meeting at the FFA Center where the delegates were briefed on all of their responsibilities for the week. On Tuesday, all 15 delegates began working in their delegate sessions to pass the various issues that they were assigned to, as well as listening about the constitutional amendments that were presented by other state associations.

After the conclusion of the business, the delegates were able to enjoy the awesome sessions, speakers and events at Convention. Keynotes from Josh Schipp and Judson Laipply, and the Lady Antebellum concert were favorites among the officers. Thank you to all the delegates for their hard work throughout convention!

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Officers’ Tracks Continued Illinois Farm Bureau Youth Ed Committee Meeting On November 17, the five majors met Mr. Craft and Mr. Dry in Bloomington for a meeting with the Farm Bureau Youth Ed Committee. The Youth Ed Committee is made up of the five major state officers, Mr. Craft, Mr. Dry, Mr. Hepner, two 4-H representatives, Mrs. Deb Stocker from the Illinois 4-H, Mrs. Mariah Dale-Anderson (the Farm Bureau Manager of Young People’s Activities), and representatives from the Farm Bureau’s affiliated companies. At this meeting, the committee finalized all of the last details for Farm Bureau Youth Conference in April. The majors are excited for a funfilled FBYC this year and have a lot of fun planned for all who will attend!

Salute to Agriculture Day University of Illinois – On November 13, John, Jake, Morgan, Cody and Jeff headed to Urbana for the University of Illinois’ Salute to Agriculture Day. The majors participated in the pre-game festivities. The five majors also had some amazing seats for the exciting college football game! Thank you to the University of Illinois for their support of the agriculture industry and the FFA, and congratulations to those who were recognized.

National FFA Convention delegates from Illinois from left to right: Cody Gill, Jeffrey Barnes, Meredith Brinkman, Trent Tabor, Sarah DeSchepper, Jim Tobin, Amanda Barr, Mike Shively, Morgan Ott, Jacob Meisner, Katie Cayo, John Edgar, Lauren Hawker, Jake Ekstrand and Kayla Hinrichs.

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FEBRUARY 2011

California FFA

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On the Go!

Check out our

website www.californiaffa.org

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Convention Results

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Outstanding Chapter: Lincoln FFA

Chapter Scoops

What’s Inside This Issue Outstanding Chapter: Lincoln FFA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B-C State Officers on the Go . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D-E National Convention Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F-H State Judging Finals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . I Alumni on the Go . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . J Support California Agriculture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . K Hello Michelle, Goodbye Mindy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . K Chapter Scoops . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . L-P

Outstanding Chapter: Lincoln FFA

W

ithin the heart of the everdeveloping city of Lincoln, California lies Lincoln High School.

Established in 1907, Lincoln High School has been blessed with an Agriculture Department since 1955 and is still going strong today.

Lincoln High School has a student population of about 1,500 students.

Approximately 400 of those students are enrolled in some sort of Agricultural course this year.

On the high school campus agricultural courses include Ag Science I, Ag Leadership, Ag Metals and Ornamental Horticulture. But that’s not all. At Lincoln High School, the phrase “hands on learning” is taken quite literally. Courses such as Ag Science II, Agricultural Biology,

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Natural History, Water Quality and Conservation, Agricultural Economics and Government, and Farm Power are held each day at the 405-acre Lincoln High School Agricultural and Environmental Science Academy.

Every day students enrolled in these courses are transported a short 15 minutes into the rural Lincoln countryside where they attend class at the LHS Farm. These courses have allowed students to meet many graduation and college entrance requirements, while maintaining their focus in agriculture.

The centerpiece for the LHS Ag Program is the 405-acre school farm facility. The property was acquired as surplus property from McClellan Air Force Base in 1976. Improvements

have been made slowly over the years as funding has allowed. Today the farm features three classrooms, a science lab, a large shop, hay barn, livestock facilities, orchard, pheasant brood strip, garden beds, organic rice fields, permanent pasture and natural wetlands. Students gain valuable hands-on skills working with the farm’s cattle, sheep and hogs, growing winter vegetables, growing oat hay, monitoring wood duck boxes and raising trout. Additionally, students are also responsible for monitoring the 225 acres of conservation easements.

The school farm is a popular destination for elementary schools and community groups. Farm students interact monthly with one of our feeder elementary schools, leading age

Outstanding Chapter Lincoln FFA, Continued appropriate lessons centered on agriculture. Lincoln students lead tours for more than 500 elementary students throughout the year, as well as garden clubs and rotary members. Lincoln high students also plant and maintain a 2-acre pumpkin patch with the help of local elementary schools. The same elementary students return in October and are able to take a pumpkin, which they helped plant, home with them.

Finally, the annual LHS Farm “Open House” is open to the community and draws around 200 people. Hay ride tours of our natural wetlands and organic rice fields are always a popular part of the tours.

The Lincoln FFA strives to remain a positive organization in the Lincoln community in a time where many Ag Departments are threatened by budget cuts. Lincoln FFA members promote their program by giving presentations to organizations like the Rotary, Kiwanis Club, School Board and Farm Bureau. Each year, Lincoln High hosts the Placer Grown Conference and last spring the Lincoln Farm was a designated stop on the Placer County Farm Tour.

Lincoln FFA members are also known to provide petting zoos with their SAE projects at local middle schools, elementary schools and churches. Additionally, FFA members help at community events like planting trees at a local dog park, and serving food at the local Farm Bureau dinner.

The chapter also sponsors four blood drives in conjunction with Blood Source on the high school campus

each year. This year the chapter is planning a county-wide “Fun Fair” where 4-H members can bring their fair projects out to the Lincoln Farm, and attend workshops on showing and fitting their fair animals.

The Lincoln FFA works hard to promote their program at the high school as well. Events such as the Bowl-A-Thon, after school BBQs, the annual Kiss the Pig Contest and Tractor Pull always seem to earn the chapter much needed recognition. The Lincoln FFA Color Guard participates in the Homecoming Parade, and the City of Lincoln’s 4th of July and Christmas Parades.

Each year, the Lincoln FFA competes in many contests including Opening and Closing Ceremonies, BIG, Farm Records, Job Interview, Prepared Public Speaking, Creed, Farm Power, Agriscience Fair, Horse Judging, Forestry Challenge and Project Competition at the local and sectional level. Lincoln FFA members also compete for many Proficiency Awards, and last year one student won a Proficiency in Beef Entrepreneurship for the Superior Region. In addition, the Lincoln FFA is proud to say they have a Sierra Buttes Sectional Officer representing their chapter this year.

Lincoln FFA participates in two local fairs each year, and some students continue on to the State Fair in market, breeding and Master Showmanship.

Livestock exhibitions include market and breeding swine, sheep, meat and dairy goats, beef, turkeys, and ducks.

If that wasn’t enough, Lincoln FFA

members also attend many leadership conferences throughout the year including COLC, the Greenhand Conference, State Convention and National Convention.

Three large fundraisers this year for the Lincoln FFA include a Tractor Raffle, restored by the Lincoln Ag Mechanics program, and a Pig Raffle, raised and cared for by the Lincoln Ag Biology classes. Lincoln FFA members also sponsor a Christmas tree sale each December.

All of these activities are supervised by four outstanding and enthusiastic Agriculture teachers, Mike Trueblood, 25 years, Barret Hess, nine years, Cassandra Walker, six years and Jessica Armistead, one year. The latter two teachers are proud to be Lincoln High School Alumni and past Lincoln FFA Members.

Thanks to the Lincoln Agriculture Department; it is inspiring to know, even in the face of urban sprawl, agriculture still remains a vital and active part of Lincoln’s youth. We would like to thank our community for all their help and constant support.

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State Officers on the Go

Words cannot describe the amazing experiences the State Officer team has had over the last few months! They have had the opportunity to be inspired by the hundreds of unique individuals who strive to make a positive difference in the agriculture industry across the beautiful state of California.

Industry visits had the State Officers going up as far north as Grass Valley for a tour of the Forest Foundation and as far south as Pomona as they learned about the nursery industry from Colorama. Some highlights from the visits include going behind the scenes at Harris Ranch, Foster Farms and Bolthouse Farms, learning how to siphon irrigate, driving tractors, and talking with the past California Secretary of Agriculture, A.G. Kawamura. The industry visits helped give the State Officers an even greater appreciation for the diverse agriculture industry in the state.

Once all of the industry visits were finished, the team started meeting people who had an extreme desire to serve others above the chapter level, that’s right, the Sectional Officers!

Whether it was playing Pterodactyl in the Southern Region, playing Minute to Win It in the San Joaquin Region, or becoming a humble hero in the South Coast Region, the State Officers had a fantastic time meeting the Sectional Officers across the state. But one of the best parts of attending their confer-

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ences was watching them as they worked hard planning for their Chapter Officers.

Chapter Officer Leadership Conferences, what a great time!

Camping in Camp Tehama with Superior Region, watching the legit lipsyncs in the North Coast Region, and dancing at the sock-hop themed dance in Central Region were definite highlights. The State Officers had a blast getting to know and bonding with all of the fabulous Chapter Officers. They were excited to see all of the passion the Chapter Officers had to serve others, and it is easy to see that the state is in good hands at the local level.

After witnessing how things were run at the local level, the State Officers were able to experience the national level at National Convention in Indianapolis, Ind. They traveled across the nation with 45 other California delegates and represented the state as they voted on constitutional amendments and spoke in committee meetings. What an experience to have the opportunity to represent more than 68,000 members!

The State Officer team had a great time going to the sessions with the other delegates and cheering on all of the individuals from California that competed at the national level. Congratulations to all of the competitors!

Right after National Convention the State Officers traveled to Washington, D.C. to go sightseeing. They were able to visit the Holocaust Museum, Mt. Vernon, present a reflection at the Iwo Jima Memorial, participate in the wreath laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and much more. All in all, it was a very humbling experience to witness the roots of our great nation.

Currently the team is traveling to schools across the state for chapter visits. This has definitely been one of their favorite parts of the year as they have had the chance to meet so many amazing people! It has been great to not only see how diverse California is in a geographical sense, but how diverse each chapter is and how every single one is unique. Teaching at so many different schools has been inspiring as they have seen what a positive impact the FFA Organization has had on so many people’s lives.

The next items on the calendar that the State Officers are looking forward to are MFE/ALA, Spring Regional Meetings, State Degree Ceremonies, and State Conference planning.

Thank you to all of the individuals who have contributed thus far to making the State Officers’ year an incredible experience!

State Officers on the Go Continued

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National Convention Results Honorary American FFA Degree – Teachers Jody Baker, Hemet Vera Gomes, Hollister Donelle McCallister, Kelseyville Denise Morales, Wasco Cheryl Reece, Galt Tom Vazquez, Cottonwood-West Valley

Honorary American FFA Degree – Other Dr. Art Parham, Fresno State University

National Agriscience Student Finalist Congratulations to Lindsey Anderson of Escalon FFA, selected as a National Agriscience Student Finalist.

National Proficiency Awards California had 17 National finalists with five announced as National Proficiency Winners. Total of 35 Gold, eight Silvers and two Bronze.

Kaitlyn Ryan – 6th Place High Individual Robert Iniguez Alison Sherman

National Winner – Marketing Plan Elk Grove FFA Jenny Gordon Maddie Stone Whitney Petersen

National Winner – Meats Evaluation

Clovis FFA Cole Lane – 1st Place High Individual Lacey McGrath – 2nd Place High Individual Kelli Williamson – 8th Place High Individual Markie Hudiburgh

2nd Place – Agriculture Issues Elk Grove FFA Joey Clifford Molly Swanberg Jordan Albiani Max Francesconi Morgan Miller

National Proficiency Winners

2nd Place – Creed Speaking

Ag Mech Repair Placement – Blake Meneses, Tulare

2nd Place – Parliamentary Procedure

Agriculture Processing – Richard Rangel, Laton Floriculture – Lovlean Purewal, Caruthers Grain Production Entrep. – Morgan Bressler, Colusa Poultry Production – Christian Alexandre, Del Norte

National CDEs National Winner – Dairy Cattle Evaluation Atwater-Buhach Colony FFA Vincent Migliazzo – 5th Place High Individual

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Riley Nilsen, Nipomo FFA

West Valley-Cottonwood FFA Jacob Vazquez Maegen Moser Jessica Vazquez Lexi Albion Josh Bohrn Allison Tucker

3rd Place – Agriculture Sales

Tulelake FFA Laura Plass – 1st Place High Individual Kelsey King Lexie Greenbank Michelle Rupert

4th Place – Horse Evaluation Atwater FFA Nicolette Schiber – 6th Place High Individual Briana Hamamoto Sasha Del Muro Jackelyn Vasquez

6th Place – Environmental and Natural Resources Sierra-Tollhouse FFA Jodi Raley Hannah Johnson Alan Sereno Taylor Tyler

7th Place – Job Interview Clay Kruse, Bret Harte FFA

7th Place – Poultry Evaluation

Porterville-Monache FFA Jordan Leslie Marcella Boyd Taylor Leslie Bethany Hargett

Gold Emblem

Ag Mechanics – Ripon FFA Livestock Evaluation – Porterville FFA Nursery/Landscape – Clovis FFA

Silver Emblem

Agronomy – Santa Maria FFA Dairy Food – Merced-Golden Valley FFA Floriculture – Hanford FFA Forestry – Grass Valley-Nevada Union FFA Prepared Public Speaking – Vince Pellegri, Galt FFA

Bronze Emblem

Extemporaneous Speaking – Haydn Clement, Paso Robles FFA Farm Business Management – Elk Grove FFA

National Convention Results Continued

Marketing Champions – Elk Grove FFA

The 2010 FFA National Convention will always be a cherished memory for the Elk Grove FFA Chapter. Elk Grove FFA had 17 students compete at the national level in Marketing Plan, Agriculture Issues Forum, Farm Business Management and Agriscience Fair. Year 2010 was filled with hard work, determination and steep learning curves.

It obviously paid off!

Elk Grove FFA is proud to be named the National Champion Marketing Plan team, a first for Elk Grove FFA and the first California Marketing Plan championship since 1999. Team members Jenny Gordon, Whitney Petersen and Maddie Stone partnered with Blue Diamond Growers to nationally market almond butter to mainstream grocery stores, natural food chains, athletic retailers and Panera Bread Company. The Elk Grove Agriculture Issues Forum team, which focused on the water crisis in California, placed second in the nation behind the state of Wyoming.

Team members Jordan Albiani, Molly Swanberg, Morgan Miller, Max Francesconi, and Joey Clifford presented to the Department of Fish and Game, Department of Water Resources, California State University, Chico, California Advocates, Farm Bureau as well as other stakeholders to build their portfolio. Year 2010 marks the first year a California Agriculture Issues Forum team has advanced to the final round of competition, let alone earning second place. Elk Grove’s Farm Business Management team, comprised of Jake Carlson, Josh Donnelly, Tom Hardesty and Mitchell Harry earned a bronze award. In the Agriscience Competition Molly Swanberg and Maddie Stone received second place in the advanced team botany division. Jake Carlson earned second place in advanced individual engineering division. Agriscience students Kat Hill and Kirstyn Fountain earned third place in the advanced team microbiology division. Maddie Albiani and Kendall Cahill also competed in the Agriscience Fair Competition. Elk Grove FFA also earned a Three Star National Chapter Award.

Meats Evaluation and Technology Champions – Clovis FFA Clovis FFA is proud to be home of the 2010 National Champion Meats Evaluation and Technology Team.

Clovis FFA members Lacey McGrath, Kelli Williamson, Markie Hudiburgh and Cole Lane traveled with their coach, Mr. Ken Dias and the Clovis East Principal, Mr. Darin Tockey, to Indianapolis, Ind. for the 83rd National FFA Convention. The Clovis FFA Meats Evaluation Team remained undefeated this year by winning the National Championship. The members of the Meats Evaluation Team have spent the last five months studying and training to compete at the national level.

The National FFA Meats Evaluation contest examines students’ skills and competencies in evaluating and identifying meat carcasses and products. Event components include a general knowledge exam, beef carcass evaluation, retail meat identification, quality and yield grading of beef carcasses, a team meat merchandising activity, and solving a meat formulation problem.

In order to compete at this higher level, the members of the Meats Evaluation Team spent their summer in local meat lockers, in the classroom, and on their own time studying for this event. The journey to Nationals started the members’ freshman year when they started studying meats. Three of the members are now seniors in high school and one is a freshman in college. The hard work paid off for the members of this team. Team member Cole Lane was named the first high individual in the nation, and other team members include Lacey McGrath, second high individual, Kelli Williamson, eighth high individual, and Markie Hudiburgh, 14th high individual. All team members received a $1,000 scholarship to further their education. The meats judging team is coached by Agriculture Instructor Mr. Ken Dias, who has coached 10 national champion teams. The Clovis FFA Meats Evaluation Team was proud to represent their community and state at the national level.

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National Convention Results Continued

Buhach Colony FFA Dairy Cattle Judging Team Wins National Contest The Buhach Colony FFA Dairy Cattle Judging Team placed first at the 83rd National FFA Dairy Cattle Judging contest held in Indianapolis, Ind. The team, coached by Mr. Manny Mancebo, included Alison Sherman, Kaitlyn Ryan, Vincent Migliazzo and Robert Inequez. The dairy team qualified for the National contest when they won the State competition back in May at Cal Poly where Vincent Migliazzo was high individual, and Alison Sherman was second high individual in the state. Their National trip started with two days of practice at several Wisconsin dairies. Then the team made their way to Indianapolis, Ind. and competed in a two-day contest at the Indiana State Fairgrounds. Forty-four states were represented, and day one of competition consisted of the written test, pedigrees and herd data evaluation. Day two consisted of six classes of dairy cattle evaluation, three oral reasons classes and six linear evaluation classes. Friday afternoon was the awards luncheon, and good news was to follow. Alison, Kaitlyn, Vincent and Robert were all GOLD award recipients and Kaitlyn Ryan won the honors of high individual in Reasons, Holsteins, Jerseys and Milking Shorthorns. Vincent Migliazzo was fifth high individual and Kaitlyn was sixth high individual overall in the nation. Tears were flying from all four contestants, including coach Mancebo, when the words, “Your 2010 National Champion Dairy Cattle Judging Team … California-Buhach Colony FFA” were announced. The team will now represent the United States at the International Royal Highland Competition in Edinburgh, Scotland in June 2011. The cost per student to attend the World Competition will be approximately $4,500/each, and fundraising has already begun.

If you wish to support the Dairy judging team, please send donation to BCFFA, Attn: Mr. Mancebo, P.O. Box 753, Atwater, CA 95301, or call Mr. Mancebo at (559) 283-2217.

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State Judging Finals

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Matt Terra – Newman FFA Chapter Alumni on the Go LIST/DESCRIBE THE FFA ACTIVITIES/LEADERSHIP ROLES YOU WERE INVOLVED IN: Mr. Terra was his chapter president his senior year and also the Section Star Farmer. He was the Stanislaus Tuolumne Section Sentinel (1990-91). The following year he was the Central Region Vice President (1991-92). After he graduated high school, he served as the California Association State Secretary (1992-93).

LIST/DESCRIBE THE PROJECTS YOU WERE INVOLVED IN: He showed market and breeding sheep, was on his chapter’s Ag Mechanics team, and also grew oats and lima beans.

HOW DID YOUR PARTICIPATION IN THE FFA PREPARE YOU FOR WHAT YOU ARE DOING TODAY? BE SURE TO INCLUDE WHAT YOU DO, RESPONSIBLE FOR, ETC. After obtaining a bachelor’s degree in Agriculture with a minor in Agribusiness and Crop Science, Mr. Terra worked for Harris Moran Seed Company, and is currently the Field Manager for Eckert Cold Storage where he visits farms and buys produce. The FFA gave him the leadership and communication skills to work with growers and others in the ag industry. He has kept involved in leadership as an active member of the San Joaquin County Farm Bureau.

Matt Terra – NOW and THEN

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION THAT WOULD BE OF INTEREST TO OUR READERS: Today, Mr. Terra volunteers his time coaching two judging teams for the Escalon FFA chapter, which are Vegetable Crops and Ag Pest Control. He is a member of the Escalon High School Ag Department’s Advisory Committee, and he also volunteers his time judging sectional and regional FFA events. He volunteers his time because he feels the FFA has given him so much, and he wants young people to be able to have all of the opportunities he had when he himself was an FFA member.

Alumni on the Go This is an opportunity to showcase alumni from your chapter!

1. You are to submit an alumnus with photos of the past and the present.

2. Alumni should complete the questions below:

• Name, FFA Chapter you were a member of.

• List/describe the FFA activities/leadership role you were involved in.

• List/describe the projects you were involved in.

• How did your participation in FFA prepare you for what you are doing today? Be sure to include what you do, are responsible for, etc.

• Any additional information or advice that would be of interest to our readers.

Please return responses with a photograph of “then” and “now” to Michelle Jimenez at: caffainsert@yahoo.com. See future due dates in the Chapter Scoop section.

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Show Your Support for California Agriculture Show your support for CALIFORNIA AGRICULTURE with California’s newest special interest license plate.

Each member who encourages someone to order a California Ag Plate completes the “Cal Ag Plate Incentive” form signed by them and their FFA Advisor.

These forms are forwarded to the State Agriculture Education Office. The names submitted on the forms will be compared to the list of those who have ordered a California Ag Plate.

• The chapter that submits member lists of the greatest number of people who have purchased California Ag Plates in proportion to their chapter FFA membership will win $1,000.

• The chapter that submits member lists of the second most people who have purchased California Ag Plates in proportion to their chapter FFA membership will win $500.

• There will be 10 random draws of people who have ordered a California Ag Plate. The member whose list includes that person will receive $100. The member’s chapter will receive $200.

• The contest will end on February 1, 2011.

About the California Agriculture License Plate: When you show your support for California agriculture with the purchase of a special interest license plate, you are investing in the next generation of our Ag industry’s innovators, entrepreneurs and leaders. Your purchase directly supports youth agriculture programs that have an established record of success. Invest in your future today!

FEES SUPPORT: • Agricultural Education • Agricultural Career Awareness • Agricultural Career Training • Youth Leadership Development

Hello Michelle, Goodbye Mindy!

Mindy Burris has been the California FFA editor for the past two years. She has done a great job in displaying the achievements of FFA members in the California FFA insert and will be missed! She recently graduated from California Polytechnic University in June with a major of Agriculture Communications. She is currently working in Arroyo Grande, Calif. at CoreClean Group while attaining her master’s degree in Agribusiness at Cal Poly. Mindy is originally from Hughson, Calif. and was part of the Hughson FFA Chapter for four years. Thank you, Mindy for your service to the California FFA.

Michelle Jimenez is extremely excited to be the new editor! She is originally from Soledad, Calif. and is currently a junior at Cal Poly studying Agriculture Education to become an Ag teacher. Michelle was part of the Soledad FFA and participated in extemporaneous public speaking, attended numerous FFA conferences, and raised sheep and hogs for her SAE. She served as the 2007-2008 California State FFA Secretary and loved every minute of it. Michelle is excited to help share your story in future editions of the California FFA insert starting with her first issue in April!

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Chapter Scoops students in attendance. The Educational Coordinators this year were Fernanda Aguilar and Martin Bermudez, and they had a great time and are looking forward to working with the preschoolers again this upcoming year. This year our Agriculture Leadership class is looking forward to expanding this showcase from a one-day activity to multiple days where the preschoolers can come and learn about the animals, as well as work on growing vegetables in the OH facility.

All of our members were very pleased to see that preschool students are very interested in our SAE projects and our animal facilities, and eager to learn more about animals and farming. Overall, the Preschool Showcase was very successful, it is one of many awareness programs that our chapter holds annually and will continue to do so throughout the years.

Hilmar FFA Chapter Los Banos FFA Chapter Written by Toni Silva, Chapter Reporter

Another busy week for the Los Banos FFA! On Thursday September 30, 2010, the annual tri-tip dinner was held, and it was a huge success! We would like to thank you for your support! On October 2-3, the Los Banos FFA officer team attended the COLC conference in Denair. The conference was made to help us build a stronger chapter and bring new ideas to the table. The officer team had lots of fun and learned many new things to bring back to the chapter. On October 4, the Los Banos FFA held their annual Halloween meeting, where they dressed up to get an extra activity point! The night was a huge success having mostly everyone dressed up! Lastly, I would like to inform the public about the Los Banos FFA/Ag Boosters chicken rigatoni drivethru dinner. It is on October 18, 2010 from 4:30 p.m.-7:00 p.m. The cost is $10.00 and if you are interested in a ticket, please contact Don Baker at (209) 617-6608. Thank you for your continued support and have a great week!

Calexico FFA Chapter

Written by Ivan Martinezs, Chapter Reporter

Written by Michael Butler, Chapter Reporter On Thursday, September 16, Hilmar FFA was excited to host a group of 14 high school students and their instructors from Australia. Their high school, Stanthorpe State High School, offers an extensive agricultural and tourism program focusing on the wine industry. Every two years, they offer a trip to California to compare and contrast California agriculture to their own. To keep their costs down, Hilmar FFA was asked to host the students for a night. While they were here, we learned many things about them. They like to play sports, such as cricket and rugby. They also really liked FFA and believed it would be quite popular if they had it in Australia. All in all, Hilmar FFA members had a great experience interacting with our friends from “down under”.

Tokay FFA Chapter The Tokay FFA has been busy assembling our grape and commodity murals for the 73rd Annual Lodi Grape Festival. The grape mural is 8’x12’ and made entirely with grapes grown on the school

farm. The commodity mural, which was 4’x4’, was made with various other commodities such as cotton, almonds, corn, apricots, rice and many more. Tokay FFA members spent two weeks working on both murals and received first place for both. The chapter also entered about 200 boxes and plates of grapes from the school farm in the festival. All the boxes and plates were judged and the chapter received many first and second place awards. The Tokay School Farm is home to more than 47 different varieties of grapes and are cared for by the members. The Tokay FFA would like to thank all of the community members for their help and support with the Grape Festival entries.

Hamilton City FFA Chapter

Written by Audra Jones, Chapter Historian Hamilton City FFA is branching out on the school farm. Students just completed planting an olive

San Marcos FFA Chapter San Marcos High School’s FFA just recently moved into their new Agriculture facility in Twin Oaks. The facility was designed by LPA Architects out of Irvine, Calif. The construction began in December of 2009 and was completed in March

Here in Calexico we are proud to say that we start learning about agriculture at a young age. The Calexico FFA Chapter is very involved with teaching its community about agriculture.

Every year our chapter holds its Annual Preschool Showcase for the younger community of Calexico.

Caesar Chavez Elementary School was one of the first to arrive with more than 80 preschool of 2010. Katherine Tanner, Executive Director of Facilities Planning and Development for the San Marcos School District, suggested Twin Oaks as a possible location for the facility because the zoning worked well for the farm and it was close to all three of the high schools.

The facility holds three pig pens, eight lamb pens, three steer pens and two horse pens. There is a

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large arena that allows members to work with their animals and practice showmanship. Two additional pens are used for chickens and ducks.

There are also two storage bins; one for the steer and pig group, and the other for the lambs and horses.

orchard to produce olives as an oil crop. The project started over the summer with the ground work and watering system. When school started, students worked alongside volunteers to erect the trellis system and plant more than 650 trees. The olive trees that were planted are the super highdensity trees that grow on a trellis system, which allows for mechanical harvesting of the crop.

A special thanks goes out to California Olive Ranch, Durham Pump, Agtrell, Juan Carrillo, John Henning and Nathon Elkin for making this project a reality.

Littlerock FFA Chapter

Written by Priscella Arciga

On September 23, 2010, the Littlerock FFA members had their first FFA meeting of the year, which was an Ice Cream Social. This event is always the highlight of the start of the year and the goal is to

Chapter Scoops Continued get members socializing and pumped about the year ahead. A record breaking 150 members showed up to meet the officers, participate in the scavenger hunt, enjoy some ice cream sundaes, and win fabulous prizes in the raffle.

and to answer questions. The other three officers took the Greenhands back to the classroom and held a mini conference for the Greenhand members that included workshops about official dress, which incorporated a uniform relay race, SAE and CDE events. Officers also took the opportunity to discuss leadership conferences and promote GLC (the Greenhand Leadership Conference), which would be later in the fall. Following the workshop, Greenhands painted their hands and put their handprints on a poster, now displayed in the ag department hallway. By the end of the night, Greenhands and parents alike were more informed about much of what FFA has to offer.

Newman FFA Chapter

Written by Frankie Ramirez, Chapter Reporter This year Newman FFA is going to enhance the relationship between the officers by having monthly “officer nights.” An officer night is when one of the officers and an advisor set up a funfilled night with team building activities and fun for the team. The first officer night took place in October with a warm bonfire at our vice president’s house. As we roasted marshmallows and ate candy many new interesting facts were learned about everyone.

Before the socializing began, the chapter had to take care of business, which included passing $225 to help first-year members pay for their Greenhand Conference registration fees. The first-year members were really excited about the chance to attend the Greenhand Conference and thought it was cool that the Littlerock FFA chapter was going to help them pay for it. Once the business was done the scavenger hunt began, and members were excited to try and win the $20 prize. Afterwards, ice cream was served until people were full. Overall, the event was a great success, and members are excited for future FFA meetings that include activities such as pumpkin smashing, turkey bowling, ginger bread house construction, and a new activity for this year “win it in a minute.”

Escalon FFA Chapter

Written by Arissa Chunn, Chapter Reporter On September 20, 2010, Escalon hosted a barbecue for Greenhand members and their parents, with more than 150 in attendance. The Parent Ag Boosters provided a chicken dinner for all. After dinner, three officers stayed outside with the parents to talk about opportunities for their children

“You could really feel the connection between us” says Christina, the chapter president. “We went from a team to a family.”

With the bond we create at these officer night’s, we will certainly be a stronger, more united team.

Future officer nights will include activities such as laser tag, bowling and paintball.

cers introducing themselves to the audience. The next item on the agenda was the games, which consisted of tricycle races, inflatable obstacle course, an inflatable bungee run, and the T-shirt pass. Finally to top off the night, guests were provided with food, drinks and candy.

Pictured above: Anthony Ramirez, Jose Luis Lua, Carolina Lopez, Giselle Sanchez and Simon Martinez

Pioneer Valley FFA Chapter Written by Enrique Pinon

On September 19 students from the Pioneer Valley FFA Chapter traveled to the Dodger Stadium to watch the LA Dodgers play against the Colorado Rockies. The chapter took a busload of exhilarated students on a three-hour ride to a destination of spine-tingling fun! The students who took part in this unforgettable event had access to a food station and received unlimited Dodger dogs, nachos, popcorn, peanuts and soda!

Well fed and enjoying the game, these students had a blast and the opportunity to socialize with students from other FFA chapters who attended the event. Our wonderful sun made sure that everyone went home with a great souvenir, whether she burned your living tissue or gave you a great tan, nobody left the stadium without a gift from mother earth. Overall, it was a great game and everyone arrived home safely and excited for the next FFA activity!

Newman officer team picture (left to right): Courtney Stettler, Christina Bettencourt, Frankie Ramirez, Mikaela Tosta, Jennifer Crisanti, Manuel Gonzales, Cameron Rocha.

Santa Maria FFA Chapter

Written by Jose Flores, Chapter Reporter I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream!

Last September, Greenhand members got the opportunity to greet the new chapter officers as well as enjoy a delicious ice cream sundae prepared by the officers. Senior officer Thalia Reyes described the event, “It was a great opportunity for the greenhands to get to know each other as well as the officer team.” All this was in anticipation for the first meeting of the year. The meeting’s theme was FFA Carnival and the big attraction was the inflatable obstacle course where members were motivated to “take the challenge, success awaits”. The meeting kicked off with offi-

Hanford FFA Chapter

Written by Madeline Wisecarver, Chapter Reporter The Hanford FFA Chapter participated in the 15th Annual American Cancer Society 24-Hour Relay-4-Life on October 9-10. This has been an annual community service event for more than 100 FFA members who collected more than $11,850 for the Hanford Walk for Life Event. This year’s FFA theme was “Hunting for a Cure.” More

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Chapter Scoops Continued

than 40 members camped during the night walking and earned spirit points for the FFA team.

Hanford FFA received two achievements; first place and a perpetual trophy for Most Involved in a Single Organization, and third place for Top Fundraising Team. FFA members helped their community by raising money, walking, organizing and working the “Kids Camp” area, and participated in the “Road to Recovery” car race. FFA members are now American Cancer Society advocates and will continue to promote prevention, awareness, research and patient services.

Bret Harte FFA Chapter

Written by Heather Kirkendall, Chapter Reporter On September 18, 2010, the Bret Harte FFA and the Ag Department had 15 Australian students and two teachers visit our Agriculture Science Facility. Previously, the school from “down under” visited us two years ago and had so much fun that they requested to come back. Our Bret Harte FFA chapter came out that day to give a tour, explain our agriculture classes and leadership opportunities.

On the tour we explained and showed them our Aquaculture Facility, Laying Hen area, Poultry Cooperative that raises 400 fryers, state-of-the-art Greenhouse that produces more than 4,000 plants sold to the community, the Rabbit Barn that houses our Californian and New Zealand breeds, our Composting systems, and Raised Garden Beds.

Overall, the Australians were really interested in our program and we enjoyed meeting students from another country advocating for agriculture.

Pitman FFA Chapter

Written by Kayla Roton, Chapter Reporter Pitman FFA is off to a great year, starting with a tremendous community service act; our second annual Think Pink Thursday. Think Pink Thursday was held on Thursday, October 7 and was open to all students, faculty and staff on campus.

Everyone was encouraged to dress in pink to show their support for breast cancer research. A group

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photo was taken at lunch with all students who were wearing pink. This year more than 900 people participated in this school-wide event. The chapter also sold “Think Pink” shirts for $10.00 with all of the proceeds going to the American Cancer Society. Additionally, for every student wearing pink that day, the Pitman FFA donated 10 cents for a grand total of $350.00. Overall, the day was a huge success and it was amazing to see so many people support this cause. With the success of the last two Think Pink Thursdays, this event has quickly become a tradition and annual event for our FFA and our school.

Grace Davis FFA Chapter

Written by Danielle Hyatt, Chapter Reporter This year the Grace Davis FFA has welcomed two new incredible teachers to our Ag Department.

Our new additions are Tammy Burris, a former Johansen FFA advisor, and Patrick Frazier, a firstyear teacher from Cal Poly. Even though we are suffering some membership loss from the opening of the new high school, our teachers and officer team are driven to think of new ways to replenish our membership so that it can thrive for years to come. We are all looking forward to these wonderful people as our new teachers.

A highlight this year has been caring for the Foster Farms Presidential Big Brother Turkeys.

We received the six turkeys the first week of school, and the Grace Davis poultry team has been in charge of care and feeding. It is quite an honor that the Grace Davis FFA was selected to house and care for these prestigious birds. The big brothers have traveled throughout the state of California and Oregon, as exhibits at County and State Fairs. These dignitaries educated many on the duties of the presidential turkeys, and what an

honor it is to be pardoned by the President of the United States.

October 20-26, five of our members, Shannon Mahaffey, Lakeishia Martin, Danielle Hyatt, Isabella Barajas and Breanna Martin, went on the long journey to Indianapolis, Ind. for National Convention. They had an amazing time at the sessions and had fun at the concert where they enjoyed listening to Eastern Corbin and Lady Antebellum. After the convention was over they flew on two small airplanes to Washington DC where they experienced the metro and toured many destinations such as the Holocaust Museum, Capitol Hill, Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, the Washington Monument, Jima Memorial and amazing sites. Overall, these members had a great trip and learned a lot too.

San Luis Obispo FFA Chapter

Written by Lauren Huffaker, Chapter Reporter On October 13, 2010, the San Luis Obispo FFA Chapter hosted an exciting and upbeat pumpkin carving contest to kick off the Halloween season.

About 62 FFA members joined in a pumpkin carving contest with various winning categories such as prettiest, funniest, scariest, most FFA/ agricultural related, Officers’ choice, and most Chapter themed, which this year is “SLO FFA: A Sure Bet” as well as participating in a round of Halloween Bingo. Along with the 62 members San Luis Obispo also invited members of the Templeton FFA Chapter Officer team to judge the contest and speak about the news in their chapter.

Members enjoying the Pumpkin carving contest at the San Luis Obispo FFA Chapter pumpkin carving meeting.

Lodi FFA Chapter No. 1

Written by Courtney Miller, Chapter Reporter During the month of September, the Lodi FFA was very busy preparing for Lodi, California’s annual grape festival. The chapter constructed one grape mural that was made of a variety of

Chapter Scoops Continued Hill’s sister city, San Martin de Hidalgo, Mexico, and give them some insight into an American high school and American agriculture.

President, Dr. Francisco Javier Guerrero Núnez, his wife, their two teenage daughters, a councilwoman, the Foreign Affairs Director and several other leaders from our sister city all attended.

After touring a local farm, our guests were excited to see the agriculture programs available through FFA at Live Oak High School and compare them to the farming opportunities they have at home. grapes and two commodity murals that consisted of many different commodities that are grown in the San Joaquin area. The theme for this year’s festival was around the world; many of the chapter members submitted designs. Our final design was created by Junior member Holly Faccini. Our chapter officers got the chance to make an impact in the community by spending hours helping with set up and preparation for the festival. We recieved both best of shows and a first place for our murals. Earning us $2,900 for the chapter.

Way to go Lodi FFA!

However, this was not the only farm tour that the Morgan Hill FFA Officer Team hosted. The Morgan Hill FFA was also honored with giving a school farm tour to a group of kids from Nordstrom’s (local elementary school) daycare center. During their visit, they learned about different animals, the fitting and showing of livestock. Our young guests also participated in fun team-building games and activities, such as grain sack races.

Sunny Hills FFA Chapter

Written by Alex Johnson, Chapter Reporter Ah, the smell of a barbecue on a crisp fall evening.

Ah, the sound of old friendships reuniting and the laughter of new friendships being formed. On the evening September 29, 2010, the officers and

Gustine FFA Chapter

Written by Mikayla Nacci, Chapter Reporter The Gustine FFA held their 26th Annual Truck and Tractor Pulls on July 3, 2010. The FFA officers spent a majority of their summer planning the event and working to make it as successful as it was in the past. The officers spent time going around to the local businesses trying to raise money by selling ads in their sponsor book they put together for the pulls. The Valley’s Tractor Pullers helped that night to get the track ready.

The FFA had a food booth at the pulls, which the FFA members helped out at by selling food and drinks to people who attended. This year we had more than 2,000 people that attended. The pulls helped the FFA raised 7,800 dollars for the year.

The Truck and Tractor Pulls were a great success and we look forward to putting it on for many years to follow.

Esparto FFA Reporter

Written by Carolann Clark Whether it was giving a foreign leader a tour of your school, or competing against the grain sack race champion, one thing can be assured – the Morgan Hill FFA will never forget the memories we made with our guests and as a chapter!

Foothill-Bakersfield FFA Chapter members of Sunny Hills FFA hosted a new event for incoming freshman. A variant of Back to School Night, this fun-filled evening was dubbed “Back to Ag Night” and more than 100 members attended. Hamburgers and beverages were provided to the curious freshman as they strolled throughout the many exhibits, which displayed all the opportunities available throughout FFA, including livestock, public speaking contests, CDEs and more. Also on site was a stall that sold homemade jam to sweet-tooths in the crowd.

Back to Ag Night was a fun way to get involved with FFA and to learn about it as well. And of course, official dress was mandatory for those working.

Morgan Hill FFA Chapter

Written by Clayton Carlson, Chapter Reporter Before the school year had even begun, the Morgan Hill FFA and their Officer Team were hard at work. This summer, the Morgan Hill FFA at Live Oak High School was given the opportunity of a lifetime! We were able to a host a tour of our school farm for a delegation from Morgan

Written by Joanne Torres, Chapter Reporter On May 19, 2010, the Foothill FFA Chapter of Bakersfield, Calif., had the privilege to host a special guest speaker in our Ag classes. The Mayor of Bakersfield, Mr. Harvey Hall, took time out of his busy schedule to address our Ag Business classes. As the owner of Hall Ambulance Services, Mayor Hall was asked to speak about all types of businesses including Ag-related types. Mayor Hall addressed an abundant number of topics to keep our Ag business students both well informed and interested in business opportunities offered both in and out of Bakersfield. It is safe to say that Melany, Marie, Brenda, Bernice, Cesar and Jesus (in order of position in picture left to right), as well as all of the other Ag business students were very gratified to have the Mayor of Bakersfield address our classes as one of Foothill’s greatest guest speakers.

This October was a very productive and successful month for Esparto FFA. They put on their second annual Halloween Carnival, competed in sectional speaking contests, attended the Central Region’s COLC, and worked at a local festival in the Capay Valley. Esparto is definitely “Bringin Farmin Back,” which is this year’s theme.

The Yolo Section Opening and Closing Ceremonies Contest took place on October 13 this year. Esparto FFA showed up with three competing teams, one novice team, one advanced team, and of course, the officer team. The officer team placed first with three of our officers receiving outstanding officer awards, including Margot Dittmar our Chapter President, Miles Eldon, Chapter Treasurer and Carolann Clark, Chapter Reporter.

October would not be complete without a Corn Maze! The Esparto FFA took 63 members to the World’s Largest Corn Maze in Dixon.

Mrs. Charter was a bit nervous taking that many students to a corn maze at night and was happy that no one got lost.

Esparto FFA’s Halloween Hoedown was very successful this year! They succeeded in providing a stellar haunted house reenacting popular horror movies including Saw, The Ring, and multiple carnival-style booths and activities. After paying a $3.50 entrance fee, attendees were treated with hot dogs, hot chocolate, coffee, Halloween candy, and fun was had by all!

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Chapter Scoops Continued As the first semester comes to a close, the Esparto FFA officer team hopes to continue help Esparto FFA flourish and show younger FFA students how much fun it is to be an active member of the FFA. So far, the officer team has been successful in achieving their goal!

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: April 2011 Material Deadline Date – 1/24/11 August 2011 Material Deadline Date – 5/20/11

The Regional Officers shined in workshops such as “The Power of a Positive Attitude” and “Conflict Resolution” that they put on for the chapter officers!

With such a great start, the Southern Region FFA is excited for the experiences to be had this year!

Monache FFA Chapter On October 19, 2010, Monache FFA Poultry Team members, Jordan Leslie, Marcella Boyd, Taylor Leslie and Bethany Hargett, along with their advisor, Mrs. Cindy Brown, traveled back to Indianapolis, Ind. to compete in the National Poultry Career Development Event (CDE) after winning the State Poultry CDE this past May. The team placed seventh in the nation out of 38 teams from across the country. In addition, all four of the girls received individual gold emblems, and the entire team placed gold as well.

Wheatland FFA Chapter

Written by Alyssa Patterson, Chapter Reporter This year, more than 50 members of Wheatland FFA participated in the Yuba-County Farm Day. At our Farm Day, we give third graders a close-up look at jobs in agriculture. Some participants in the presentations were fellow students who gave detailed and entertaining descriptions of life on the farm.

Other less mechanically inclined members, worked as tour guides for the children, leading them through a four-hour crash course in everything agricultural. From animals to tractors, these little guys experienced it all. But the members were not the only ones doing the teaching; many of the children had interesting stories to share with the tour guides, giving us a better understanding of how children today view their community and what’s happening around them. Our members found it gratifying to teach these children even the simplest things, like where their food comes from. We can’t wait until next year!

Eureka FFA Chapter

Written by Ehlana Churchill, Chapter Reporter Ashley Reynolds, Natalie Grant, Chelsey Gratz, Kelly Pedrotti, Ehlana Churchill and Julie Grant all were selected from Eureka High FFA to attend the 83rd Annual FFA National Convention held in Indianapolis, Ind. Mrs. Lovfald, was the advisor this year. As a group, they traveled with Ferndale, Del Norte, Fortuna, Mckinleyville, and Arcata FFA on many tours, the Career Show and the FFA sessions. This year a record breaking 54,945 members were in attendance to the conference. It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

The National Poultry CDE is a competitive activity that tests the participant’s ability to select top-quality poultry and poultry products needed for successful production and marketing. Event participants must compete in a written exam on poultry management individually, evaluate classes of live birds for eggs and meat production, evaluate quality of eggs internally and externally, evaluate and identify parts and products, and the team must participate in a scenario based on poultry management. Jordan Leslie, who has been judging poultry all four years of high school and after high school, says, “I am so happy that the team even made it to nationals let alone placing seventh.” Jordan attends Porterville College and plans to go on to become an Equine Veterinarian. “There were so many people there, I just couldn’t believe it,” says Marcella Boyd, who has been judging poultry all four years of high school and plans to pursue a veterinary career in small animal care. Taylor Leslie, who started judging poultry her sophomore year, says, “I am elated to have had the chance to go to nationals before graduation!” “It’s amazing to go to nationals as a junior, not many members from Monache make it there as a senior, let alone a junior,” says Bethany Hargett, who has been judging poultry since she was a freshman.

The Porterville Community was a great support system for Monache’s Poultry Team who would like to give a special thanks to the Eagle’s Lodge, the Exchange Club, the Breakfast Rotary Club, the Breakfast Lions Club, All Creatures Pet Care, and the Monache FFA Boosters for their generous donations.

Southern Region FFA Update Written by Adriana Kaplan, Southern Region Vice President

The Southern Region FFA Officers started the year off with a bang at their retreat in Laguna Beach. Three days were spent planning for the Regional Officer Leadership Conference, the Sectional Officer Leadership Conference, and the Chapter Officer Leadership Conference. At ROLC they honored exemplary service organizations with a patriotic observance.

In August, at their SOLC, the state officers held workshops and team-building activities to strengthen the sectional officer teams!

Members from the Southern Region showed off their FFA pride at the Los Angeles County Fair Field Day by competing in competitions such as Specialty Animal and Floriculture! In November, COLC was held in Indio.

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Above (left to right): Mrs. Cindy Brown, Marcella Boyd, Bethany Hargett, Jordan Leslie, Taylor Leslie and Dr. Roy Brister (from Tyson Foods)