October 2010 FFA New Horizons

FFA

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

速

the magazi ne of the n ational ffa orga nization | October 2 010

Lighten Up! Is your backpack too heavy?

Marching Toward

Success

Discover your infinite potential at the 83rd National FFA Convention Create a profile. Add friends. Start a group. Voice your opinions. ffa.org/ffanation

ffa

Volume 58 Number 1

new horizons

®

October 2010

The magazine of the National FFA Organization

Kim Newsom

jessy yancey LISA BATTLES, JOYCE CARUTHERS

Julie woodard

Kristy Meyer

RAVEN PETTY

JENNIFER GRAVES CHRIS HAYHURST, JESSICA MOZO, JESSICA WALKER

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

Ryan Sweeney

Leigh guarin

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

Editor Associate Editor Copy Editors FFA Publications Manager FFA Communications Proofreading Manager Content Coordinator Contributing Writers Media Technology Director Senior Graphic Designers Media Technology Analysts Photography Director Senior Photographers Staff Photographers Information Technology Director I.T. Service Technician 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./Content Development V.P./Visual Content V.P./Content Operations

F or advertising information, contact Tori Hughes, (800) 333-8842, ext. 281, or e-mail thughes@jnlcom.com.

2009-2010 National FFA Officers

Levy randolph, CA

Bethany bohnenblust, KS

Alex Henry, MI

Randa Braune, TX Chelsea Doss, TN

Chase Rose, MT National FFA Staff

Larry Case

Steve Brown

dwight armstrong

Marion Fletcher

Mark Cavell, Bill fleet Dale Crabtree, Janet Maloney,

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

Tony Small, Bill stagg,

will waidelich

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

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

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

Copyright© 2010 by the National FFA Organization and Journal Communications Inc. The National FFA Organization is dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education.

Please recycle this magazine

On the Cover: FFA members represent their states in the 2009 National FFA Convention Grand March.

cover story

Marching Toward Success

Discover your infinite potential at the national FFA convention.

16

National Advisor, Chief Executive Officer Executive Secretary Chief Operating Officer National Treasurer Division Directors

National FFA Board of Directors – Members

Larry Case Chair, USDE, VA

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

FFA.org/ffanation

Contents

4

Scrapbook

8

FFA Faces

Chi-Town = Farmtown

Chicago students raise livestock, plants and fish – right in the city limits.

Read news, jokes and more.

Meet members from across the country.

20

National Officer Q & A

22

Cool Careers

24

Healthy Lifestyles

26

Back Talk

28

Your Money

Meet Vice President Chase Rose.

Dig up a career in production agriculture.

Learn how to lighten up your backpack.

Meet Syngenta president Vern Hawkins.

Count up your collection’s worth.

FFA

New Horizons

3

FFA scrapbook

Express yourself

54,400

jobs in the agricultural industry are expected to be available in the next three to five years, according to USDA.

29,300

FFA Family Spirit

students are expected to graduate with agriculture degrees during that same time frame. There will be a lot of jobs out there for you, FFA members!

A former state FFA officer in California, Summer Vitelli made numerous connections during her FFA

Just Joking

involvement. But not until recently did she realize the power of an “FFA family.”

In 2009, Vitelli was diagnosed with severe aplastic anemia, which attacks her bone marrow, creating a need for multiple blood transfusions and ultimately, a bone marrow transplant, for which Vitelli has no match.

Why don’t skeletons like parties?

They have no body to dance with.

What is a baby ghost’s favorite game?

Peekaboo How do you repair a broken Jack-o-lantern?

Buy a pumpkin patch!

Vitelli’s FFA family sprang into action.

Members from her home FFA chapter, Sierra-Tollhouse, set up a bone marrow drive, signing up nearly 300 people for the registry. Visit ffa.org/ffanation to learn more about Vitelli’s story and about the national bone marrow registry.

4

FFA

New Horizons

FFA.org/ffanation

Researching Rice Abroad In 2008, Minnesota FFA member Kyle Bohrer wrote a paper for the highly prestigious World Food Prize Youth Institute, at the encouragement of his agriculture teacher. That advice paid off well, since Kyle’s research paper led to him being chosen as one of 16 Borlaug Ruan interns for 2010 through The World Food Prize.

For his internship, Kyle lived in Beijing, China, for eight weeks this summer, researching rice genetics at Peking University. He has been invited back to the Youth Institute next month to present his research.

Kyle started college this fall at Beloit College in Wisconsin and was recently selected as the Region VII Vice President for Minnesota FFA.

Quite a Deal

Farm Facts From Mike Rowe If you attended the 2009 National FFA Convention, you may remember a riveting speech given by Dirty Jobs’ Mike Rowe.

Recently, Rowe created a new “Farming, Fishing, Food” section on his website, www.MikeRoweWorks.com, to discuss and promote American agriculture.

His goal for the site is to help connect people with the source of their food and the people who provide it. Articles about agriculture and profiles on real farmers are added regularly to the site. There’s even a column about and a video of his national FFA convention experience.

FFA.org/ffanation

Next time you turn on the radio, you might just hear a fellow FFA member singing his song. Chase Yaklin, a high school senior from a small town in Texas, recently landed a record deal with a label from Los Angeles.

Music comes naturally to Chase, whose grandfather toured with country music legend Waylon Jennings. At one point, Chase was so driven to learn music that he built his own guitar, basically from scratch, using parts from various guitars that needed repair.

Chase has served as an FFA chapter officer for two years and has performed his music at the Texas FFA Convention.

FYI Your Turn

Keep us informed!

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

E-mail a photo, your story and contact information to newhorizons@ffa.org.

All photos need to be in color and a minimum of 1 MB in size.

Or, mail to: FFA New Horizons P.O. Box 68960 Indianapolis, IN 46268

FFA

New Horizons

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2010 National FFA Convention Navigator 10 Cool Food-Related Careers AGRICULTURAL COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALISTS FOOD & DRUG INSPECTORS PRODUCE BUYERS NUTRITIONISTS FOOD SCIENTISTS

All in Good Taste SAVOR THE OPPORTUNITIES IN FOOD PRODUCTS AND PROCESSING CAREERS Chew on this: As society continues to focus on diet and health, this career pathway continues to expand.

Individuals working in food products and processing may uncover new food sources, study and evaluate food content and generate ways to satisfy industry and government regulations when processing, preserving, packaging and storing food.

They also create new food products and inspect food-processing areas to make sure that all necessary

is the average yearly salary for a nutritionist in the United States.

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standards are met, including sanitation, safety, quality and waste management.

And there are new opportunities every day.

Just as the need for food will never decrease, the need for professionals in the food products and processing industry will remain constant or increase.

For more information on these careers, visit ffanewhorizons.org.

percent of agricultural and food scientists work for federal, state or local governments.

2009 National FFA Convention Navigator

Kathleen Braithwait OREGON FFA MEMBER CANS JAMS AND JELLIES

K

athleen Braithwait of Dayton, Ore., can certainly can. During her summers, she works at the nearby Dundee Fruit Co. While she started out building boxes and working on the production line, she quickly began checking for quality control, where she has learned to cap the products, check seals and check jars for vacuum.

Kathleen can get pretty busy, sometimes putting in 16-hour days.

“Our busiest month is always July, because it’s blueberry season,” she says.

“You’re working 100 percent for so many hours, and you get frustrated, but you have to keep everyone upbeat so they are at their best performance.”

BACTERIOLOGISTS

Kathleen doesn’t know if she’ll make a career out of working at the Dundee Fruit Co., but she’s grateful for the experience.

MEAT SCIENCE RESEARCHERS

“I’ve gotten good work experience at the cannery,” she says. “It kind of gives me a head start, I guess. In the future, I’d like a job that involves communications and helping people.”

DIETITIANS FOOD BROKERS BIOCHEMISTS

percent of the world’s total supply of fresh peaches is provided by U.S. farmers.

Food Products and Processing

Food Products and Processing

Your College, Careers and City Guide

READ OTHER FFA MEMBERS’ STORIES AND AGRICULTURAL CAREER INTERESTS AT FFANEWHORIZONS.ORG.

BRIAN McCORD

2009 National FFA Convention Navigator

Featuring: • The only published map and booth listings for the 2010 National ffa Agricultural Career Show and FFA Shopping Mall • Agricultural careers information • College listings • Downtown Indianapolis attractions and restaurants The online version will be live at ffa.org/ffanation in early October. Flip through the digital magazine and download pages to use in your convention planning. Printed copies will be available at convention registration and information booths.

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FFA Faces

Win a Chevrolet T-shirt Chevrolet, the sponsor of FFA Faces, will award a T-shirt to featured members.

Nominate yourself 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.

Nathan Holthaus

Describe

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

OH

Chapter: Fort Laramie FFA

OH

Chapter: Liberty-Benton FFA

IA

Chapter: Rockford FFA

Lane, a high school sophomore, serves as sentinel for his FFA chapter. He currently owns two heifers for his supervised agricultural experience program (SAE), and exhibits them at various cattle shows. Lane says these heifers, recently bred to two show bulls, are the start of his cattle herd. He also plays on his school’s golf team and sings in concert choir.

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FFA

New Horizons

This high school senior has shown her family’s Holstein dairy cattle since she was 7 and now has nine head that she owns herself. Heather has participated in FFA Agricultural Sales, Dairy Cattle Evaluation, and Fruit and Vegetable Identification career development events (CDEs). After high school, Heather plans to attend college and study animal science, with plans to become a veterinarian.

Peyton Graham

TN

Chapter: Munford FFA

Amber, a high school senior, is serving as chapter secretary for the second straight year. She has been awarded the Star Discovery FFA Degree, Star Greenhand, the Star Chapter FFA Degree and the Outstanding FFA Officer award. Amber raises yellow perch as part of her supervised agricultural experience program (SAE), and she hopes to become a veterinarian one day.

Lane Wicks

NJ

Heather Shinn Chapter: Northern Burlington Regional FFA

This high school graduate has earned his State FFA Degree, served as chapter FFA president and was named the 2010 Chapter Star in Agribusiness. He recently received the school’s highest agricultural honor, the DEKALB Agricultural Accomplishment Award, sponsored by Monsanto Co. Nathan is now a freshman at the University of Dayton in Ohio, studying engineering.

Amber Overmyer

Upload

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

Peyton, a high school senior, serves as vice president for both her FFA region and her chapter. She competed in the national FFA parliamentary procedure CDE in 2009 and will be in the national FFA prepared public speaking CDE in October. In college, Peyton plans to study agricultural leadership and political science and hopes to pursue a career in agricultural politics.

Cody Grogg

WV

Chapter: Gilmer County FFA

Cody, a college sophomore, hopes to become a veterinarian one day, a career goal that stems from his FFA experience raising beef cattle.

He was a member of his chapter’s Livestock Evaluation team and was on the two-time state-winning Beef Stockman’s Team. Cody is a state winner in the Diversified Agricultural Production proficiency and has served as treasurer and president for his FFA chapter.

FFA.org/ffanation

Success Photos by Brian McCord

Marching Toward

Discover your infinite

potential at the national FFA convention

FYI I Navigate the Convention

n less than a month, more than 50,000 of

session of the convention for one big reason

you will be bound for Indianapolis –

– the convention theme song! Will it be

ready to create memories at the 83rd

country, rock, rap, pop or maybe even

National FFA Convention. The convention,

bluegrass? We haven’t heard what format

themed “Infinite Potential,” kicks off on

this year’s song will be, but you’d better

While attending the national FFA convention, it’s easy to be a bit overwhelmed.

Wednesday, Oct. 20, and ends on Saturday,

believe that we will be sitting in Conseco

Oct. 23. So what’s in store for you? A lot of

Fieldhouse on Wednesday evening, ready

good times, motivational experiences and

to hear it and learn all the words!

To help you find your way, we’re publishing a special Convention Navigator, filled with career and college information, the only booth listing and map for the National FFA Agricultural Career Show, Indy attractions and more.

But more specifically, here are our top

Learn more about the Navigator on page 6.

new friends to meet!

10 suggestions for how to spend your time in

FFA

New Horizons

Speaking of music, this year’s

Indianapolis. As many of our returning

convention will be a little bit country and a

attendees know, you can’t fit all that’s great

little bit rock ‘n’ roll.

about the convention into one list. So after

Wednesday night’s concert will feature

you finish reading our top 10, head to

Lady Antebellum, winners of five Academy of

ffa.org/convention for even more exciting

Country Music awards, and Easton Corbin,

announcements and news about the

an up-and-coming artist with the No. 1 hit

national FFA convention!

“A Little More Country Than That.” On Thursday, be entertained by 2008 American

1. Sing along with the theme song!

Every year, we can’t wait for the opening

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2. Rock out at a concert!

Idol winner David Cook and Grammy winner Colbie Caillat.

FFA.org/ffanation

FFA members march down FFA Way, toward Conseco Fieldhouse in downtown Indianapolis, for the Opening Session of the National FFA Convention. The FFA Grand March is held annually to showcase the National FFA Band, National FFA Chorus and each state’s flag.

Check out ffa.org/convention for information on purchasing concert tickets.

And as always, you should make

4. Discover a career!

The National FFA Agricultural

Indianapolis, are available Wednesday through Saturday.

Career Show gets better and better every year! Be sure to visit this

6. Pick up a souvenir!

Just next door to the career

plans to attend the National FFA

year’s show to see the new booths,

Band and Chorus Concert and the

as well as favorites from previous

show, you can find all sorts of FFA

various other venues where FFA

years, and win great prizes.

merchandise to commemorate your trip to the 83rd National FFA

members show off their own talents.

5. Learn FFA history!

3. Serve others!

This year’s convention marks

Convention. Visit more than 30 stores, including the FFA Mega Store,

the 75th anniversary of the creation

John Deere, Cowpokes, Tractor

National Days of Service has become

of the National Farmers of America

Supply Co., the FFA Sale Store and

a favorite annual convention event.

(NFA), which merged with FFA in

more. You can even get your FFA

FFA members become Indianapolis

1965. Special events are being

jacket lettered!

volunteers during their visit to the

planned to commemorate the NFA,

city, by giving their time to support

including videos, a booth in the

local organizations. This year’s

career show and more.

Since its start in 2006, the FFA

7. Be Motivated!

During the convention, we’ll

To learn even more about FFA

hear powerful speeches from Levy,

Thursday, Oct. 21, and Friday, Oct. 22,

history, plan a visit to the home of

Bethany, Alex, Chelsea, Randa and

but advance registration is

FFA. Tours of the National FFA

Chase, then be able to thank them

required. These spots fill up fast!

Center, just north of downtown

for their year of service as we

Days of Service will be held on

FFA.org/ffanation

FFA

New Horizons

11

welcome six new national FFA officers for the 2010-11 year. Find out who your state’s national FFA officer candidate is and wish them good luck!

8. Cowboy up!

Bring your boots and cowboy hats for two nights of great Western events.

The Three Hills Outlaws of Rodeo will bring the best bull and bronc riders to the Indiana State Fairground’s Pepsi Coliseum for two big shows and the crowning of the series champions.

For ticket information, visit ffa.org/convention.

9. Take a tour!

More than 30 tours and day-trips have been organized for the national FFA convention. So take a day during the week to learn more about agriculture in the area. You could tour agricultural businesses like Dow AgroSciences or even tour a gourmet popcorn farm. The full listing of tours can be found at convention.ffa.org.

10. Watch it all!

And the best part of the national FFA convention? You can enjoy it from anywhere. SchoolTube will be streaming every convention session live on www.schooltube.com, and the full session videos will be available online after the close of the convention. Also, you can tune in to the sessions on RFD-TV during the week as well. So for those of you not able to make it to Indy, you can join in the convention fun, too!

Many FFA members attending the convention are present to compete in national FFA career development events.

Others come to be motivated by speakers, like National FFA Advisor Dr. Larry D. Case, who will be retiring after this year’s convention.

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FFA

New Horizons

FFA.org/ffanation

Speaking Up Among this year’s convention speakers are a TV host, an author, an FFA leader and a dance revolutionist.

Learn more about these speakers, who are sure to inspire and motivate you during the 83rd National FFA Convention.

Josh Shipp will be sharing his message at the convention opening sessions on Wednesday afternoon and evening and again on Thursday morning. Shipp is the host of the TV show Jump Shipp and authored The Teen’s Guide to World Domination. A national spokesperson for National Foster Care Month, he was recently named to Inc. magazine’s “30 under 30” list.

Angela Mayfield is no stranger to FFA. A former state and national FFA officer and high school agricultural education teacher, Mayfield combines her interests in agricultural education, leadership and Spanish to present educational workshops across the world. Mayfield will be sharing her leadership message during the Thursdayevening session.

Kevin Carroll, our speaker for the Friday-morning session, believes in the spirit of play and creativity in order to maximize human potential. A former head athletic trainer for the Philadelphia 76ers, Carroll combines his love for sport with his belief in personal growth to serve as a catalyst for social change.

Judson Laipply is sometimes best known as a YouTube phenomenon, for his “Evolution of Dance” video, which has been viewed by more than 100 million people. Laipply will share his message that “Life Is Change” through his down-to-earth methods, which sometimes even include dance. Laipply is speaking at the Friday-evening session.

Clockwise: Josh Shipp, Angela Mayfield, Kevin Carroll, Judson Laipply

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FFA

New Horizons

FFA.org/ffanation

Check out the

Digital magazine FFA

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

®

the magazi ne of the n ational ffa orga nization | october 2 010

Lighten Up!

Is your backpack too heavy?

Log onto ffa.org/ffanation And you can: • Sign up for an FFA Nation profile!

• Upload photos of your FFA experiences!

Marching Toward

SucceSS

Discover your infinite potential at the 83rd National FFA Convention

• Make FFA friends from across the country!

• Win giveaways from FFA Nation advertisers!

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

at www.ffa.org/ffanation

FFA.org/ffanation

• Join (or create) a group with other FFA members!

FFA

New Horizons

15

Chi-Town =

Story by Jessica Walker Photos by J. Kyle Keener

Farmtown Chicago students raise livestock, plants and fish – right in the city limits

A

want to be in.”

nything but typical, the

Agricultural Finance and Economics

Chicago High School for the

teacher at CHSAS. Those admitted to

Agricultural Sciences

the school are chosen through a

are expected to diligently pursue

lottery system.

their chosen pathways. And while

(CHSAS) offers what most schools simply cannot. For starters, the

Because it is so small, the school

As juniors and seniors, students

freshmen and sophomores take

magnet school includes a working

has a small-town feel – quite a feat

music, art and physical education,

farm – complete with cows, chickens,

for an institution in Chicago.

upperclassmen only take college-prep

goats and other animals – in the

“Everybody knows everybody,”

heart of one of the largest cities in

Johnson says. “There’s a lot of

the United States.

respect for teachers and students.”

Sound interesting? It is.

The school – housing ninth-,

As freshmen, students are required to take two agriculture-

classes and pathway-related courses.

“It’s pretty intense, even for teachers,” Johnson says. “There’s no playtime. It’s all about education, whether it’s agricultural or not.”

Even though schedules are

tenth-, 11th- and 12th-graders – sits

related courses in addition to

on 80 acres and was built in 1985. In

“regular” classes, such as English

rigorous, there’s still a lot of fun to

addition to a farm, the campus is

and algebra. Sophomores spend their

be had. Students not only work on

home to a variety of handy

school year choosing one of five

the farm, they operate the school’s

amenities, including a greenhouse,

“pathways” – Animal Science,

farm stand and a 5-acre market

atrium, Olympic-sized swimming

Agricultural Mechanics,

garden. They sell a variety of goods,

pool, food-science lab and more.

Agricultural Finance and Economics,

including their No. 1 product –

Horticulture, or Food Science.

genetically modified sweet corn.

However, even though the campus is spacious, enrollment caps

“Each sophomore spends eight

In addition, CHSAS has a strong

at 600 students each year, with no

weeks with each teacher in each

athletics program. Football, soccer

more than 150 students in each grade.

pathway,” Johnson says. “On the last

and baseball are just a few of the

day of the school year, the students

sports in which students can

take a survey and pick the area they

participate. Athletes compete in the

“Last year, 1,350 kids applied for 150 seats,” says Rick Johnson,

CHSAS students Kaila Jones, left, and Katie Lucid groom the school’s horses. The horses, along with other animals housed on the school farm, are used by animal science students to learn more about their chosen pathway.

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FFA

New Horizons

FFA.org/ffanation

CHSAS student Daisy Moreno organizes tomatoes in the farm stand, which is open to the public from summer through the holiday season. small school division in Chicago and have won city championships.

“We have a balance,” Johnson says. “We have to realize not every kid is going to do agriculture.”

And, of course, there’s FFA. All of the students are members of the school’s chapter, which is the largest in Illinois and the fifth largest in the nation. Not surprisingly, FFA is a pretty big deal at CHSAS. In fact, the school doesn’t even have a student council – Johnson says FFA officers get the job done.

The “job,” whether it’s taking care of animals or making sure the farm stand is running smoothly, must get done 365 days a year – even during vacation time.

“The serious FFA members are here two, three, sometimes four days a week in the summer,” Johnson says. But, it’s safe to say the students don’t mind too much.

“I don’t think they get enough,” he says.

In fact, Johnson says most of the

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FFA

New Horizons

students attending CHSAS are “overachievers” – a mindset he says teachers, including him, encourage.

“We have to make them into overachievers in order for them to succeed,” he says. “What you put into it is what you get out of it.”

To motivate his students, Johnson keeps his classes enjoyable.

“I make mine fun,” he says. “The kids are having a great time. It’s a lot easier to learn when you’re having fun.”

And the kids aren’t the only ones having a good time.

“This is one of those jobs I could do for free,” Johnson says.

Tell us what makes your FFA chapter unique!

Create an FFA Nation profile, then submit your chapter’s story in the News section.

FFA.org/ffanation

FFA National Officer

Q&A

FFA Vice President, preparing for the upcoming national FFA convention.

Q

What does the 83rd National FFA Convention theme, Infinite Potential, mean to you and your team?

A

Infinite Potential is something that we can all choose to live by and truly believe in. The convention will open students’ eyes to not only what they can accomplish, but what we can accomplish together.

Q

What convention activity are you most excited about?

A

The opening session! It truly will be an amazing feeling for me and each member in the arena when Levy says “FFA members, why are we here?” and a full stadium responds together.

FYI Chase’s Favorites This Montana native has wanted to be an airplane pilot since he was 5 years old, so it’s no surprise that his favorite hobby is flying airplanes. Learn more about Chase: Food: Mexican Book: Good to Great

by Jim Collins

Chase

Rose A Central

National FFA Region Vice President

The son of an FFA advisor, Chase Rose has been involved with FFA since a very early age. Chase grew up in a small town in Southwest Montana, surrounded by three mountain ranges.

While growing up, he kept quite busy,

Movie: Air Force One

through managing three FFA supervised

Sport to play: Basketball

agricultural experience programs, playing

Color: Blue

basketball, skiing, participating in 4-H and

Season: Winter

taking flying lessons. Aviation is one of Chase’s greatest passions; as a college

Animal: Dogs

student at Montana State University, he

Fruit: Pineapple

studies commercial aviation and

Hero: Ronald Reagan

agricultural business.

Right now, however, Chase is taking a year off from school to serve as a National

20

FFA

New Horizons

Q

How will you and your team prepare for the convention?

Before the convention, we will spend a great deal of time memorizing session lines and our retiring addresses. We have a team retreat in Southern Indiana before the convention with FFA staff, and that’s where we really focus on getting our retiring addresses perfected and ready for delivery. My team and I will also spend a good deal of time thinking about what kind of lasting impact we can deliver to more than 50,000 FFA members during convention.

Q

Since you are nearing the end of your national FFA officer year, can you put into words what this experience has been like for you?

A

National office has been the true privilege of my life thus far. I have been continually inspired by students I’ve met this year, and I have no doubt this organization will continue to be one of the great prides of our country.

FFA.org/ffanation

FFA cool careers

Production Agriculture

Life

A Farm-Filled

Dig up a career in production agriculture

D

o you believe farm living is

related safety products and work to

the life for you? If so, a career

prevent accidents, diseases, injuries

in production agriculture

and property losses.

may be a good choice. While the

Agricultural safety engineers

possibilities are numerous, read on

should obtain a four-year degree in

to discover five cool careers you

engineering, physical or biological

may have never considered.

science. They will work in offices as well as on farms, performing

1. AERIAL CROP DUSTERS

inspections.

Aerial crop dusters assist farmers by dropping chemical herbicides, pesticides and fertilizer

3. VEGETABLE FARMERS Vegetable farmers plant,

over crops and fields using

cultivate and harvest vegetables.

airplanes. Anyone considering this

They work to control pests and

career should know about the

weeds and to improve the quality

benefits – as well as the potential

and quantity of their produce. In

harm – that can come from the

addition, they stay up-to-date on the

chemicals they work with.

most recent production and nutrient

Other than a vocational degree,

the Midwest might raise corn, soybeans and winter wheat, and could also have a cow herd as well.

Diversified farmers must have good planning and management skills, and obtaining a two-year degree is recommended. As is the lifestyle of many farmers, the hours are long, and days off may be few and far between.

5. AGRICULTURE INSPECTORS These inspectors make sure agriculture-related establish­ ments are following laws and environmental considerations.

They must understand farming operations, as well as relevant laws and how they apply to situations.

A four-year degree is required to work in this field, and a background in environmental law and regulations is recommended.

Most inspections will be performed outdoors, while other tasks, such as paperwork, will be completed inside.

management practices.

aerial crop dusters need a pilot’s

A two-year degree is

license. They are typically self-

recommended, and vegetable

employed and have to be good

farmers should have scientific and

communicators, since they must

technical knowledge in order to

explain the services they offer.

provide crops for optimal nutrition and to improve the environment.

2. AG SAFETY ENGINEERS Since farming is considered to

Most work will be done outdoors or in greenhouses.

be a dangerous occupation, agricultural safety engineers are an important asset to the

4. DIVERSIFIED CROP FARMERS Many farmers grow multiple

agriculture industry. They develop,

crops, sometimes several at the

inspect and construct agriculture-

same time. For example, a farmer in

22

FFA

New Horizons

FFA.org/ffanation

FFA healthy lifestyles

Baggage

Excess

Baggage Do your back a favor – lighten your load

N

ext time you sling that

doctor of chiropractics in

supplies you’re expected to carry

backpack over your

Monroeville, Penn. “There has been

around. But there are ways to make

shoulder on your way out

an increase in the number of young

sure it’s not compromising your

the door, you might want to think

people who suffer from headaches,

physical well-being in the

twice about how it’s affecting your

neck pain and back pain from

meantime.

back – and the rest of your body, for

backpacks that are simply too

that matter.

heavy.”

“Backpacks are a leading cause

We know you can’t ditch the

1. Know your limits.

Dr. Eric Plasker, a doctor of

of back pain among children and

backpack completely, with all the

chiropractic in Atlanta and author

teens,” says Dr. Marc Tinsley, a

textbooks, homework and school

of The 100 Year Lifestyle, says the most important backpack safety tip is to know your weight limit.

“Safety guidelines advise teens not to carry anything on their back in excess of 15 percent of their total body weight,” Plasker explains. “For example, a person weighing 100 pounds should carry no more than 15 pounds. And a person weighing 150 pounds should carry no more than 22.5 pounds.”

2. Distribute the weight.

It’s also important to properly distribute the weight in the backpack. Place heavier items on the bottom and against your back so weight is kept off the shoulders and you can maintain good posture.

24

FFA

New Horizons

FFA.org/ffanation

“A good backpack will have compartments or dividers to keep the contents from shifting and making the weight uneven,” Tinsley says. “It’s also best to wear both straps. Don’t try to look cool by slinging one strap over a shoulder.

That causes us to shift our weight to one side, which leads to muscle spasms, pinched nerves and jammed joints.”

“Bend at the knees when you lift

backpack as their locker, keeping

to reduce the stress placed on your

everything they need for the school

back,” Plasker says. “When you bend

day on their backs.

at the knees, you’re distributing the weight to your legs and hips.”

“Carry only what you need,” Plasker says. “Leave unnecessary items at home or school.”

5. Prioritize Your Pack.

Probably the biggest problem

Utilize your locker too, and drop off heavy books and extra stuff –

with backpacks is that they’re just

like gym shoes – throughout the

too “packed.” Many teens use their

school day.

– Jessica Mozo

3. Shop smart.

When it comes to safety, not all backpacks are created equal. Choose yours wisely.

“Buy one with padded straps and lumbar support or wheels,” Plasker says. “Non-padded straps dig into the shoulders, which stresses muscles and joints and causes pain.”

A waist belt can help your pack sit more closely to your spine, which also aids in weight distribution.

4. Lift correctly.

There are also proper ways to lift a backpack.

FFA.org/ffanation

FFA

New Horizons

25

FFA Back Talk

Former members Reflect

Hawkins Vern

Syngenta president reflects

on his own FFA membership

F

FA has been a lifelong passion for Vern Hawkins. While an FFA member at North Miami High School in Indiana,

Hawkins raised feeder cattle and hay for his supervised agricultural experience program (SAE). He also was a member of state-winning poultry and dairy judging teams, and he was high individual in the state poultry event.

Today, Hawkins is President of Syngenta Crop Protection and remains involved with FFA through the National FFA Foundation Sponsors’ Board, currently serving as the board chairman.

Q

How did FFA help shape your career path?

A

As a teenager in rural Indiana, I was very involved with FFA and worked for neighboring farms in my spare time. As a

result of these experiences, I developed a love for rural life and appreciation for agriculture, both of which are largely responsible for my pursuing a career in agriculture.

The opportunities and the confidence I gained from my agriculture teacher, and through the many FFA activities in which I participated, helped provide a clear direction in my future and prepared me to be an influential leader.

Q

Why do you think it’s important that FFA members remain involved with

the organization after their years of membership?

A

I recognize the impact that FFA had on me, not only as a student but now as a leader and a professional, I can’t help

but give back. Eventually, those of us in agribusiness today will pass the reins on to the next generation. I want to do everything I can to make sure young people have the same educational and developmental opportunities that I had.

I think supporting FFA is one of the most syngenta president and FFA alumnus Vern Hawkins

26

FFA

New Horizons

effective ways to support our next FFA.org/ffanation

generation of agricultural leaders.

youth and the future of

Not only will those opportunities

agriculture through mentor

improve their lives, but creating

programs, scholarships,

strong leaders is critical to the

internships and investment in the

success and sustainability of

National FFA Organization for

agriculture and our nation.

more than 45 years.

Q

Every year, Syngenta and its Many FFA sponsors, like Syngenta, will be present

during the convention in October.

What tips do you have for FFA

employees support FFA programs that educate and equip students for a career in agriculture.

As we move forward, it’s these students, the next generation, who will help us meet the global agricultural challenges of tomorrow.

ffanewhorizons.org Go online to read more from our interview with Vern Hawkins.Â

members, so that they can meet FFA sponsors and make the most of this opportunity to interact with some of the top agricultural companies and organizations in our country?

A

I have no doubt that the future leaders of the agriculture industry attend

the convention, and this is a great opportunity for them to learn about the various career opportunities that are available.

I would strongly recommend that convention attendees take some time to visit the National FFA Agricultural Career Show and talk with companies present. Engage them in conversation about the company, what its role is in the industry and what kinds of opportunities are available.

Many companies, like Syngenta, offer various mentoring, scholarship and internship opportunities, and employees are on hand to provide information and insight.

Q

Why does Syngenta believe it important to continue

supporting the FFA organization?

A

At Syngenta, we believe that people are the most important part of our legacy,

which is why we’re committed to FFA.org/ffanation

FFA

New Horizons

27

FFA your money

collections

Value Collecting

Ever wondered how much your collection of baseball cards, coins or dolls are worth?

J

ust how much is your baseball collection worth?

Whether it’s stamps, dolls, coins or other items, almost everyone has collected something at one time or another. But how much is it all worth? Should you sell your stuff for a quick buck, or hang on to it? Franco Lagudi, founder of online buying and selling community The SOC Exchange, offers a few tips on getting the most out of your collectibles.

WHAT IS VALUABLE? According to Lagudi, anything – literally, anything – can sell well online. He says collected comic books and magazines are big sellers, as well as Coca-Cola bottles and clocks.

Sounds random, right? Well, what it really comes down to is the condition and quality of the item.

“The items that don’t sell well are really knocked around and damaged,” Lagudi says. “Make sure your items are in good condition.

Wear and tear is the crucial thing.”

You can often look at online auctions to see how similar items

28

FFA

New Horizons

are priced, which should also help you determine the value of yours.

HOW TO SELL First, you must decide whether you want to keep your collectibles or sell them. For many people, collections have sentimental value, so they choose to keep their items for a very long time. For others, they may be moving, cleaning out clutter, or ready to start a new collection, so selling makes sense.

Once you’ve decided to let go of your items, you have to put them up for sale. The most popular way to do this is to use a website, such as eBay, Craigslist or The SOC Exchange.

“If you don’t put your items up there, they’re not going to be seen,” Lagudi says.

Next, be sure to take good pictures of the items from a variety of angles and be truthful when you describe them.

“Give good, accurate, honest details,” Lagudi says. “Don’t embellish.”

Finally, price your items reasonably. Collectibles typically

sell for as little as $20 and as much as $100 – so, when pricing your items, be honest. If they aren’t in good condition, don’t try to sell them at a high price. Lagudi also suggests letting potential buyers know how far you’re willing to ship the items.

STAY SAFE When selling anything online, it’s important to follow a few guidelines to ensure your safety.

Remember to never give out personal information, including your phone number, home address and e-mail address. Be especially careful if you have a meeting planned to exchange items and payments.

“Tell a family member where you’re going and when you will return,” Lagudi says. “Always meet in a public place and take a friend.

Trust your instincts.”

In fact, it’s probably best to have a parent or family member help you with the whole process – posting, selling and delivering.

– Jessica Walker

FFA.org/ffanation

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.

OCTOBER 2010

ILLINOIS ASSOCIATION FFA FFA in the Spotlight Introducing the 2010-2011 Illinois State Officer Team | C

Section Presidents | D

Check out our

website

Preview | G

Officers’ Tracks | H

What’s Inside This Issue Section Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

B

Major State Officers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

C

Section Presidents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D 82nd Annual State FFA Convention Wrap-up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

E&F

National Convention Preview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G

www.illinoisffa.org

Officers’ Tracks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . H

SECTION MAP

Major State Officers John Edgar, President – Trico Jake Ekstrand, Vice-President – Farmington Morgan Ott, Reporter – Olympia Cody Gill, Secretary – Nashville Jeffrey Barnes, Treasurer – Somonauk-Leland-Sandwich Section Presidents Section 1 – Hannah Pieper, Dakota Section 2 – William Henert, Ashton-Franklin-Center Section 3 – Trent Tabor, Geneseo Section 4 – Sara DeSchepper, ROWVA Section 5 – Cheyenne Kargol, Midland Section 6 – Trevor Fildes, Sycamore Section 7 – Emily Warhurst, Somonauk-Leland Section 8 – Naomi Harper, CHAS Section 9 – Leon Peters, Heyworth Section 10 – Clayton Carley, Cissna Park

Section 18 – Lauren Hawker, Armstrong

Section 11 – Meridith Brinkman, Liberty

Section 19 – Katie Cayo, Mulberry Grove

Section 12 – Ashly Bishop, Beardstown

Section 20 – Amanda Barr, Altamont

Section 13 – Hannah Hart, Bluffs

Section 21 – Amanda Malawy, Nashville

Section 14 – Kayla Hinrichs, Athens

Section 22 – Kyle Jones, Marissa

Section 15 – Jacob Meisner, Southwestern

Section 23 – Chelsey Baker, West Richland

Section 16 – Jim Tobin, Blue Ridge

Section 24 – Christina Greer, Pinkneyville

Section 17 – Mike Shively, Paxton-Buckley-Loda

Section 25 – Christine Dubble, Eldorado

B • ILLINOIS FFA

Meet the Officers

Pictured

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left to rig

Morgan

and Ekstrand Ott, Jake

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eporte Office: R strom & Matt Nord ): (s r o is Adv ice-Presi ison Office: V ar g d E Joan Harr n n e h id R Jo tt o c S : Olympia Advisor Chapter: resident n to ichele Ott g in Office: P ikel and M ter: Farm man M p : a se u h ts ience: n C H e e n r n Pa Jaso Catheri ral Exper u & lt d u n ic Advisor: la r o g : R nce ed A Parents: Supervis al Experie Trico r gricultur a A g d/or Chapter: d d n ip E a e h y e is c rs v Hom ment Super preneu e and Nan tr g n u E o n D y Develop : o : Event: vent: Communit Parents perience Producti E x f e t E e l n B a e r lopment m u e p v lt e u lo e D ic v r r e e g ed A Care Career D tion & Supervis Favorite edure Favorite p Produc ro g & tary Proc C in n n g d e o d ie ti m Ju if c ia e u k rl c d th a o P ro to st ctions P Divers e t e iv fe L Wildli “If your a n you g : e d h n te a o t “W u n : e Q te ip ore, learn Quo hang eursh Placem Favorite dream m Favorite knot and Entrepren to a t e n rs ti e e , re, you t: m th e e n o p g e Mana inspire ent Ev ecome mo b of your ro m lt p d d e v n n lo e a e se v o re e mo Adams klin D. Ro Career D more, do n Quincy h Jo n”. ~ Fran Favorite o ~ ” r. e riving are a lead s Tractor D re belong tu fu e h “T of Quote: s e beauty Favorite lieve in th e b ey Barne r o f h lt f w e e v J se se o o th o R to anor asurer ms.” ~ Ele an Kuntz ffice: Tre their drea O son and D l il il W G tt a y M ich Cod Advisor: nd-Sandw nauk-Lela tary o re m c e o S S : : e r Offic rnes Chapte d-Ledford anette Ba Julie Bon Jim and D : ts n erience: e r Advisor: a P ural Exp lt le t il u v ic r sh g a A N ed anagemen l Chapter: Supervis and Turf Grass M ichelle Gil M d n a t: s e ce: Mark Even Ag Servic Parents: Experien lopment icultural rship and eer Deve r r a g C A e d it e r Favo Supervis tion Entrepreneu Contest uc nce”.

Land Use nly live o Beef Prod ction Placement te: “You o u t: o d n u e ro Q v P E e y t it ir n r e Da Favo evelopm Career D Favorite e”. ging ’s up to m Dairy Jud is to be, it it f “I : te Quo Favorite ft ra C m ~ Ji

trand Jake Eks dent

ILLINOIS FFA • C

Section Presidents Section 1 – Hannah Pieper, Dakota Section 2 – William Henert, Ashton-Franklin-Center Section 3 – Trent Tabor, Geneseo Section 4 – Sara DeSchepper, ROWVA Section 5 – Cheyenne Kargol, Midland Section 6 – Trevor Fildes, Sycamore Section 7 – Emily Warhurst, Somonauk-Leland Section 8 – Naomi Harper, CHAS Section 9 – Leon Peters, Heyworth Section 10 – Clayton Carley, Cissna Park Section 11 – Meridith Brinkman, Liberty Section 12 – Ashly Bishop, Beardstown Section 13 – Hannah Hart, Bluffs

Section 14 – Kayla Hinrichs, Athens Section 15 – Jacob Meisner, Southwestern Section 16 – Jim Tobin, Blue Ridge Section 17 – Mike Shively, Paxton-Buckley-Loda Section 18 – Lauren Hawker, Armstrong Section 19 – Katie Cayo, Mulberry Grove Section 20 – Amanda Barr, Altamont Section 21 – Amanda Malawy, Nashville Section 22 – Kyle Jones, Marissa Section 23 – Chelsey Baker, West Richland Section 24 – Christina Greer, Pinkneyville Section 25 – Christine Dubble, Eldorado

June Orientation Meeting: June 10-11 After that final tap of the gavel at the 82nd Annual State FFA Convention the Section Presidents and the newly elected 2010-2011 Major State FFA Officers gathered together to start their June orientation meeting. Also attending were the retired 2009-2010 Major State FFA Officers, Chase Rose the National Central Region Vice-President and three state staff.

Chase gave a few remarks on how to prepare for a successful year, and the retired officers led a fun getting-to-know-you game. After all the fun was over we discussed our duties and responsibilities for the upcoming year!

July State Officer Meeting: July 12-14 The 25 Section Presidents, five Major State officers and the three state staff gathered together for the second time in Springfield, Illinois. During our time together the team set goals for the upcoming year, and discussed more responsibilities.

After having great ideas brought to the table the team came to a decision for the state theme for the year ahead!

Ms. Donna Page presented information about FFA Leadership Camp.

D • ILLINOIS FFA

82nd Annual State FFA Convention Wrap Up STARS Star in Agriscience – Clayton Carley, from the Cissna Park FFA Chapter is the 2010 Star in Agriscience.

Clayton’s supervised agricultural experience program includes corn, soybeans, wheat, sweet corn and vegetable production. This year he tested insecticide, fungicide, glyphosate, and variety inputs in plots and field tests. He was the 2009 State Vegetable Production Award Winner and National Agri-Entrepreneurship Award Winner and is this year’s State Extemporaneous Public Speaking Award Winner. Clayton Plans to attend Parkland Community College and then transfer to a four-year university for a degree in agronomy. Clayton’s advisors are Jeff Clifton and Ron Lynch, and he is the son of Kenton and Lisa Carley. Good Job, Clayton!

Star in Ag Placement – Ty Metsker, from the Taylorville FFA Chapter is the 2010 Star in Ag Placement.

Ty has been helping on his grandfather’s 900acre farm since he was little. Throughout his three years of his placement program, he has increased his hours and learned more each year. This year they had 700 acres of soybeans that yielded 55 bushel per acre. The corn yielded about 200 bushels per acre due to unusual growing conditions. Ty plans to attend Joliet Junior College and then return to the home farm. Ty’s advisors are Lee Meteer, Sue Schafer and Matt Beyers, and he is the son of Dennis and Chris Metsker. Good Job, Ty! Star Farmer – Tyler Loschen, from the Tri-Point FFA Chapter is the 2010 Star Farmer. Tyler started his Supervised Agricultural Experience program with two bred gilts, one Simmental heifer, and 20 acres of corn and soybeans.

He then expanded his operation to farrow 22 liters of Duroc, Hampshire, Yorkshire and crossbred pigs. His cow herd has increased to seven cows and he cash rents 243 acres on which he grows corn, soybeans and alfalfa hay.

Tyler as learned to do his own artificial insemination, collect and extend his boars, and make management decisions on his own.

He was a member of his chapter’s first place

team in the 2010 State Livestock Reason Division CDE and was the first place individual in the event. Tyler plans to attend a community college and participate on the livestock judging team. After two years he will transfer to a four-year university double majoring in plant and animal science. His advisor is Diana Loschen, and he is the son of Gary and Diana Loschen. Good Job, Tyler!

From Left to Right: Clayton Carley, Ty Metsker, Jessica Both and Tyler Loschen

Star in Agribusiness – Jessica Both, from the Seneca FFA Chapter is the 2010 Star in Agribusiness.

Jessica started her pet care business “I Care Animal Service” by handing out flyers in the community advertising her services. She started with four clients and has expanded her business to over 80 clients through business cards, a website and by joining the Seneca Business Association along with the Illinois Valley River Chamber of Commerce.

The business offers pet sitting and grooming along with pet walking and basic training services. Jessica plans to attend college majoring in Ag Education and become a high school agriculture teacher. Her advisors are Jeff Maierhofer and Kent Weber, and she is the daughter of Leonard and Kimberli Both.

Good Job, Jessica!

ILLINOIS FFA • E

82nd Annual State FFA Convention Wrap Up – Continued The 2010-2011 State Officer Team would like to thank the five majors and 25 section presidents for devoting a year of their lives to serve the Illinois Association FFA along with the members. We greatly appreciate your hard work and dedication. You have left an impact on the lives of more than 17,000 FFA members across the state of Illinois. We wish you all the best of luck in the future.

Proficiency Winners Ag Communications – Amelia Martens, Orion Ag Education – Mark McKown, Sullivan Ag Mechanics Design & Fabrication – Andy Schaefer, Waterloo Ag Mechanics Energy Systems – Clinton Hayes, Fairfield Ag Mechanics Repair & Maintenance Entrepreneurship – Justin Thomas, Charleston Ag Mechanics Repair & Maintenance Placement – Ethan Swint, Geneseo Ag Processing – Calvin Lynch, Cissna Park Ag Sales Entrepreneurship – Tucker Aumann, Nokomis Ag Sales Placement – Mark Sullivan, Rushville-Industry Ag Services – Daniel Mitchell, West Prairie Beef Production Entrepreneurship – Tamar Adcock, Central A&M Beef Production Placement – Bradley Greer, Nokomis Dairy Production Entrepreneurship – Brandon Pinski, Nashville Dairy Production Placement – Corey Steber, Olney Diversified Crop Production Entrepreneurship – Hayden Byars, Cisne Diversified Crop Production Placement – Ty Metsker, Taylorville

F • ILLINOIS FFA

Diversified Ag Production – Tyler Loschen, Tri-Point Diversified Horticulture – Kaity Vancil, Bushnell-Prairie-City Electrical Technology – Drew Higgason, Taylorville Emerging Ag Technology – Rosemary Chapple, Waterloo

Special Thanks: As Amie, Caroline, Ellen, Kiersten and Adam hung their jackets up for the final time at the 82nd Annual State FFA Convention, a new team of officers stepped up to embark on a journey of service.

Environmental Science & Natural Resource Management – Trevor Roth, Blue Ridge

Nursery Operations – Rebecca Crank, Midland

Equine Science Entrepreneurship – Natalie Carr, Hardin County

Outdoor Recreation – Victoria Goad, Harvard

Equine Science Placement – Lauren Wells, Herscher

Poultry Production – Gus Fandrich, Shelbyville

Fiber & Oil Crop Production – Corey Johnson, Peotone

Safety – Josh Winter, Scales Mound

Floriculture – Michael Paulsmeyer, PORTA

Sheep Production – Tim Leonard, Sangamon Valley

Food Science & Technology – Jarred Winans, Taylorville

Small Animal Production & Care – Jessica Both, Seneca

Food Service – Faelynn Edwards, Goreville

Specialty Animal Production – Laura Child, Amboy

Forage Production – Josh Ibendahl, Nashville

Specialty Crop Production – Josh Evans, Mahomet-Seymour

Forest Management & Products – Samuel Oliger, Mt. Vernon

Swine Production Entrepreneurship – Wade Springer, Olympia

Fruit Production – Megan Broom, Carlinville Grain Production Entrepreneurship – Dustin Reetz, Cissna Park

Swine Production Placement – Kaleb Nelson, Tri-Point Turf Grass Management – Jim Tobin, Blue Ridge

Grain Production Placement – Aaron Prins, Geneseo

Vegetable Production – Erika Lambattus, New Athens

Home & Community Development – Yvonne Zavoral, Kansas

Veterinary Medicine – Julie Sauls, Highland

Landscape Management – Aaron Smrekar, Seneca

Wildlife Production & Management – Jeff Meister, Tri-Point

National Convention Preview

Agriscience Fair National Entries

{

Individuals Botany – Cassie Billington (Cisne) & Luke Hays (Delavan) Environmental Science – Brandon Smith (AC-Central)

National Officer Candidate Clayton Zwilling from Viola, Illinois is your National Officer Candidate!

He served as the 2008-2009 Illinois Association FFA State President and is attending Lakeland College where he is studying Agriculture Education.

At the National FFA Convention in October Clayton will go through a challenging interview and an evaluation process that is conducted by the national nominating committee. Wishing you the best of luck, Clay!!

Illinois CDE Teams and Individuals competing at the 2010 National FFA Convention: Ag Communications – Midland Ag Issues – Midland Ag Mechanics – Prairie-Central Ag Sales – Midland Agronomy – Paxton-Buckley-Loda

Bio Chemistry – Ann Pond (Cisne) & Haley Pfaffe (AC-Central)

Dairy Foods – Prairie-Central

Engineering – Sarah Hempen (Waterloo) & Jared Ferguson (Sullivan)

Environmental & Natural Resources – Cissna Park

Zoology – Lucretia Mills (Cisne) & Rochelle Meteer (Taylorville)

Teams Botany – Travis Whittaker & Ross Carls (Taylorville) Danielle Bright & Kelsey Handy (AC-Central) Environmental Science – Travis Wyantt & Luke Telford (Pontiac) Bio Chemistry – Taylor Strehl & Connor Strehl (Stillman Valley) Engineering – Will Keeney & Joseph Ratliff (AC-Central) Austin Metsker & Austin Peters (Taylorville)

Extemporaneous Public Speaking – Clayton Carley, Cissna Park Prepared Public Speaking – Evan Rich, Pontiac Creed Speaking – Jacob Miller, Geneseo

Dairy Cattle – Prairie-Central

Floriculture – Glenbrook South Food Science – Unity-Mendon Forestry – TBA Horse – TBA Livestock – Tri-Point Marketing Plan – Paxton-Buckley-Loda Meats Evaluation & Technology – Fieldcrest Nursery Landscape – Paxton-Buckley-Loda Parliamentary Procedure – Amboy Poultry – Paxton-Buckley-Loda Job Interview – Olivia Harris, Heyworth

ILLINOIS FFA • G

Officers’ Tracks IAVAT Annual Meeting: June 15-17 John, Jake, Morgan, Cody and Jeff had a tremendous time at the Illinois Association of Vocational Agriculture Teachers annual meeting in Springfield, Illinois. This meeting gave the five major state officers a chance to interact with the Illinois Agriculture Educators they will be working with throughout their year of service. During the conference teachers were awarded for their dedication and service to their school and the Illinois Association FFA.

Blast Off: June 21-25 After a short time at home, the five majors’ second week of serving the Illinois FFA consisted of attending the annual Blast-Off Training. This year the presenter was Seth Heinert from Wyoming. He attends University of Nebraska in Lincoln and served as a State FFA Officer for Wyoming along with serving as a National Officer.

During Blast-Off the five majors learned more about themselves as individuals, techniques for public speaking, and team strengths and weaknesses. After having a fun week of training the officers were able to get to begin their plans for the upcoming year.

National Leadership Conference for State Officers: July 5-9 The five major state officers from Illinois along with, Kentucky, Missouri, Indiana and Wisconsin gathered in Springfield, Illinois for the National Leadership Conference for State Officers. This week was full of workshops presented by Chelsea Doss, National Southern Region VicePresident from Tennessee and Alexandria Henry, National Eastern Region Vice-President from Michigan.

The workshops helped the officers gain better leadership and presenting skills.

Heritage and Cooperative Tours: June 27-July 2 John and Jake traveled on the Cooperative Tour while Morgan, Cody and Jeff attended the Heritage Tour.

The tours were both sponsored by the Illinois Farm Bureau and Affiliated Companies. During the trip the participants had the chance to visit our national capitol. When returning home everyone had a better understanding of how cooperatives operate along with our nation’s heritage.

FFA Leadership Camp: July 28-31 John, Jake, Morgan, Cody, Jeff, over 300 excited FFA members along with camp staff had four fun days in Monticello, Illinois at the State FFA Leadership Camp. During these four days the group competed in Ag Olympics, team activities, and the red and blue water balloon fight!

When the week came to an end the five majors, along with the FFA members and camp staff, felt like the week was a success!

Illinois State Fair: August 13-22 The five major state officers along with the 25 section presidents had a fun-filled week in the FFA barnyard during the Illinois State Fair. During this week visitors were excited to pet the animals and the FFA officers were there to help assist and teach the young children about Agriculture.

Below: The five majors during their first day of BLAST Off.

Above: The five majors attend the annual IAVAT BBQ at the Illinois State Fair Grounds.

H • ILLINOIS FFA

october 2010

California FFA

PAGE

F

On the Go!

Check out our

website www.californiaffa.org

PAGE

H

American Degrees

PAGE

L

B

PAGE

Outstanding Chapter: Atwater FFA

Chapter Scoops

What’s Inside This Issue Outstanding Chapter: Atwater FFA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

State Officers on the Go . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

American Degree Recipients . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Upcoming FFA Activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Alumni on the Go . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Chapter Scoops . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

B-E F-G H-J . K . . L L-P

Outstanding Chapter: Atwater FFA

CATA – The Atwater High School Agriculture Program staff gather to accept the 2010 CATA Outstanding Agriculture Program award.

T

he Atwater High School Agriculture Department and Atwater FFA is one of two high school agriculture/FFA programs serving the cities and outlying rural areas of Winton and Atwater with a combined population of around 36,000 residents.

Atwater is located in the heart of California’s central valley in between Modesto and Fresno along Highway 99.

Atwater High School is just over 50 years old and served as the primary high school for the community until the Merced Union High School District expanded to their fifth high school with the construction of another campus (Buhach Colony High

B • CALIFORNIA FFA

School) in Atwater just less than 10 years ago. When the district lines were drawn between the two campuses, Atwater High School was designated for the “city” portion of Winton and Atwater while the other campus contained part of the city of Atwater, however it also encompassed all of the outlying rural/farm portions surrounding Winton and Atwater. The effect it created at Atwater High School in terms of the agriculture program was the change in student demographics where it became composed today of 98%+ nonagriculture background students.

Over the past few years, the agriculture program has tripled in size from 300+ individual agriculture students in 2006 to a record 900+ individual students in 2010 representing half of the 1800 high school student population. The Atwater agriculture program is lead by a team of six full-time agriculture instructors. The “vision” of getting students involved and utilizing FFA and agricultural education model has created an atmosphere of enthusiasm, production and pride. Due to the recent growth of student involvement within the program, many facets of the program/FFA have been created, strengthened, and expanded within the

Outstanding Chapter Atwater FFA, Continued ag mechanics, horticulture, agrisciences and FFA. Last year, a $1.7 million renovation took place with the main agriculture building and shop being redesigned and expanded with state-of-the-art classrooms and laboratories.

A $500,000 investment was made towards state-of-the-art wood construction and welding equipment to enhance “hands-on” learning and provide students with current trade

technology and skills. Atwater High School became California’s first CANGC-certified high school horticulture program as they expanded their floriculture and horticulture curriculum and facilities. Both the agriculture mechanics and horticulture facilities provide the community a variety of nursery, landscape, and garden plants and materials through biannual plant, garden art, and wood construction sales.

Over the past few years, the agriculture curriculum has collaborated with some of the district’s core science classes where the opportunity for students to receive their Life, Biology, Earth, and Environmental science classes through the agriculture department has provided students with increase exposure of the importance and value of agriculture. The results of this philosophy has transcended into more student FFA involvement, higher

Maze Trip – The annual FFA “Corn Maze” Meeting is a highlight each October with two FFA charter buses visiting Tracy, California for an “aMAZEing” good time.

Feb Shop Classes – Atwater High has three plasma cams where students take part in state-of-the-art shop technology.

Dissection – “Hands-on” learning, as students demonstrate in their Ag Biology class, is the key to success in agriculture education.

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Outstanding Chapter Atwater FFA, Continued Wood Classes Jan. 7 – Over $500,000 in new wood construction and welding equipment was invested at Atwater High School last year.

BBQ – Atwater FFA students cook up four take-out BBQ fundraisers each year, as well as being responsible for various campus/school BBQ needs. retention percentages, and the creation and expansion of specialized agriculture courses such as Veterinary Science, Horticulture, and Ag Economics/Government.

The success of Atwater FFA and the Atwater High School Agriculture Program can be centered around student involvement and the opportunity for students to gain a positive and valuable experience towards their personal, academic and career endeavors. More importantly, students comment that their main reason for being involved with Atwater FFA and Atwater High School agriculture is because “It’s fun!”

Every monthly FFA meeting is focused on taking care of business effectively and efficiently followed by the opportunity for students to engage in social and recreational activities.

September’s “Pool Party”, October’s “Corn Maze”, December’s “Hockey

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Trip” and “Morning Wave”, January’s “Movie Night”, March’s “Bowling Tournament,” and April’s “Burrito Bing” are some of the yearly highlight traditions with hundreds of students participating in each event. The enthusiasm of fun activities and events extends into the desire of competition and skill development with a strong core of successful CDE judging teams that include Light Horse, Dairy Products, Nursery and Landscape, Land, Ag Mechanics, Specialty Animals, Meats, Cotton, Vine Judging/ Pruning, Floriculture, Best Informed Greenhand (BIG), Creed, Prepared Public Speaking, and Job Interview.

The opportunity to work with the community is highlighted with various community/school landscape projects, educational forums and social assistance programs.

Atwater High School was recently recognized as the 2010 California

Outstanding Middle/Secondary School Agriculture Education Program by the California Agriculture Teacher’s Association (CATA) and the National Association of Agriculture Educators (NAAE). The value of the award is not towards the agriculture staff or program, rather the continued investment of involvement, support, and productivity by the students, school staff, district, community and agriculture industry. The model of success came from other various agriculture communities, programs, instructors and students from California FFA and high school agriculture programs throughout the state. It all comes down to “making a positive difference in the lives of young people”, and Atwater FFA takes pride in being one of the many successful and productive chapters throughout the state.

Outstanding Chapter Atwater FFA, Continued Officer Retreat 82 – Each year the chapter officer team plans the calendar, identifies the chapter/program goals, and sets the theme for the school year.

Point Award Trip 18 – Each year the Atwater FFA recognizes its Top 25 FFA members and Chapter Officer Nom-Com individuals with a summer trip such as this recent rafting trip.

Broccoli – Atwater High freshman agriculture students are traditionally responsible for the fall and spring garden facility where various vegetable crops are grown.

PrePlant Sale 1 – Atwater High’s agriculture students are responsible for the care, maintenance, and well-being of the plants and horticulture facilities.

Reedley 6 – Atwater FFA’s increased student involvement has transpired into growing CDE judging team success.

Merced Fair – Thanks to industry and community support/resources, Atwater FFA students are able to house, finance and participate in various livestock SAEs that normally wouldn’t be available to the students.

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State Officers on the Go June 13 marked the beginning of a once-in-a-lifetime experience for the newly elected State Officers: move-in day. Not only does this mean that they have had the opportunity to see who in the house can cook, but it was also a fantastic start to what they know will be an amazing year.

other states and was able to come

To kick off the year, National FFA sent Arkansas native Krysten Sheets to the State FFA Center for BLAST-Off Training. There the new State Officer team was able to learn how each individual has different characteristics to offer and how together they can be a strong team ready to serve the members of California FFA. This four-day conference flew by and left the team motivated and anxious for what was ahead.

Finally the time had come for the

Following BLAST-Off Training the officer team took a trip down to San Luis Obispo for the California Agriculture Teachers’ Association Conference. Here they had the chance to attend sessions with the ag. teachers and be inspired by all of the work the ag. teachers do to benefit the association. Whether it was watching ag. teachers be inducted into the Ag. Teachers’ Hall of Fame or meeting with the FFA Advisory Board, the officers are very thankful for all of the support they have. But then it was time to leave and learn how other associations work at the National Leadership Conference for State Officers!

fantastic job, and they have proven that

Although 13 hours was a long time in a van to NLCSO, it was incomparable to the amount of material learned and memories made at the conference in beautiful Bryce Canyon, Utah. The team met State Officers from seven F • CALIFORNIA FFA

together with their own team to set and plan for the upcoming year. They also explored the majestic Bryce, Zion, and Grand Canyons and even watched the 3rd of July fireworks in Utah. The team had a great time as they were able to explore and bond together. team to meet with their own members back in California at the Regional Officer Leadership Conference at Bass Lake! It was so rewarding for them to finally be able to meet with the Regional Officers for whom they had been planning the conference. The week was filled with patriotic observances, theme skits, workshops, team building and a safari themed-social to wrap it all up. The Regional Officers did a they have a huge desire to serve the members of their respective regions.

The most recent event that has had the officer team going is the California State Fair. There they have been a part of the Opening Ceremonies, judged for the Herdsman Awards, helped with the Sale of Champions and more. But among their responsibilities they have still made sure to find time to meet more members and of course find some tasty fair food.

Next up on the calendar the team will be traveling up and down the state for trainings, industry visits, Sectional Officer Leadership Conferences and Summits, and Chapter Officer Leadership Conferences. They are so excited for what lies ahead and cannot wait to meet more amazing members throughout the state!

State Officers on the Go Continued

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American Degree Recipients A

Taylor Brickey

Breauna DeMatto

Kelsey Adams

Jessica Brisendine

Martha Diaz

Christopher Adame Jose Alvarado

Michael Alvarado

Nicholas Alvarado Gustavo Alvarez Ashtin Alves

Jason Anderson Emily Andreini

Pete Antognazzi

Samantha Aragon Susana Armenta Cristina Avila Kasey Avila

Curtis Azevedo Kevin Azevedo

B

Evan Bachelder Nick Badasci

Lawrence Banales

Malorie Bankhead Ashley Barnes

Steven Barnett Casey Bastian Daniel Bazan Terra Bazan

Jenna Bennett

Michael Benson Cooper Berens

Lauren Beshears

Antonio Bettencourt Amanda Bivier Niccole Black

Cameron Blake Chad Bower

Adrienne Bradley

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Jessica Briggs

Ashley Brooking Julia Brown

Robert Brown

Cassie Bruecker Carl Bushnell

Serena Diaso Craig Diener

Justine Donnelly Kate Doop

Samuel Doty Amy Dufur

C

Adelaide Dyer

Britney Caetana

Wesley Eisenga

Courtney Cabrera

E

Kyle Caetano

Kayla Elder

Yasmin Camacho Sean Cameron

Sergio Cardona

Hannah Cardoza Sergio Carmona

Corey Carpenter Robert Carstens Raven Castro Shane Cates

Allison Cauzza Omar Chavez Juan Churon

Rafael Cisneros Emily Clifton Ryan Clifton

Molly Cochrane

Joseph Coleman Kevin Comalli

Jerry Compton Jacob Conway

Jonathon Cota

Samantha Cyrus

D

Kate Daley

Joshua Davila

Katie Eslick

F

Stephanie Fairbank

Stephanie Ferrumpau Matt Fletcher Aaron Flores

Ashton Flynn Kory Fontes

Kayla Fountain

Sandra Frederick

Brent Fukushima JD Fullmer

Michael Fuso

G

Kayla Gardner Will Garland John Garner

Raechelle Gaylord Chris Gemmell Blythe George Brooke Giles

Allexsis Girard Joseph Gobea

Carolynn Gomes Marie Gonzales

American Degree Recipients Continued Benjamin Gray

Alexis Jimenez

Mario Mastelotto

Jenna Greenmyer

Hannah Junio

Brigid Mattos

Kelly Gray

Cody Greer

Sam Job

K

Anthony Matteucci Malille McCallister

Klint Keenan

Brandon McCorkle

Shauna Ketcham

Taylor McDonald

Wesley Kraintz

Connor McKean

Scott Hammond

L

Kristyn McQueen

Crystal Harris

Amanda Larson

Daniel Havlin

Michelle Lindsey

Christina Groleau Ariel Guerrero Erica Guido

H

Haley Haans

Victoria Hamilton Breanne Harlan

Shayne Kent

Andrew McCormick

Peter Knight

Jordan McGill

Kyle Lane

William Havard

Kathleen Lawson

Alonzo Hernandez

Jordan Lippincott

Emanuel Hernandez Enrique Hernandez Juan Hernandez

Carrie Logan

Jacob Loogman Cain Lopez

Ashley McKee

Alison Mebane Caitlin Meile

Kody Melendrez Nicole Mello

Walter Mendoza Blake Meneses Bailey Miller

Meagan Miller Ross Miller

Jeffery Hillman

Francisco Lopez

Ashley Hofman

Steven Lopez

Brianna Monteiro

Natalynne Hood

Gary Lowery

Charles Moran

Houston Howell

Alexander Lund

Rhett Mota

George Minaglia

Christie Hobby

Kristin Lopez

Shannon Holland

Horacio Lopez-Segura

Amanda Moore

Lacey Howard

Margarito Lua

Johnny Morrison

Austin Hubbell

M

N

James Macedo

Ryan Nazaroff

Stacy Magana

Lukas Nickols

Carrie Isaacson

Jenenetta Marisclan

Kristine Nunes

Matthew Martinez

Tanner Obermeyer

Cody Huff

Anthony Hughes Lance Hunt

Anthony Macedo

Lauren Navarro

Justin Machado

Bretton Neville

Yvette Malveaux

Christopher Nilsen

J

Diego Martinez

O

Doug Jeffries

Jeffery Mason

Elizabeth Hurd

I

Holli Jacobsen

Tabitha Martinez

Cody Oldenberger Taylor Ortiz

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American Degree Recipients Continued

P

Darcy Pearce

Michael Perez

Suzanne Perrin Austin Perry Justin Peters

Ross Petersen

Caitlin Pettijohn-Banegas Amy Phillips

James Piersma

Amanda Pinheiro Ashley Pipkin

Weston Pounds

Margarito Prado

Tatiana Prestininzi Jaime Pryde

Lovlean Purewal

Q

Alexandra Quesinberry Todd Quigley

Marisela Quiroz

R

Justin Rominger

Madison Rowell

Elizabeth Ruelas Shelbe Ruis

Jared Rutman

S

Glenn Sailors

Tate Sandborg

Catherine Sanders Jose Sandoval

Alyssa Sankey Kari Sargent

Chase Schaffner Kaylyn Schiber

Kattie Schmidig Sarah Schmitt

Brooke Schmitz Frank Schott

Mikaela Serafin

Bethany Shimmel Jesse Silva

Mason Silva

Sebastian Silveira

Nicole Ramos

Jacob Skinner

Alayna Renner

Morgan Staneart

Joel Riedel

Lauren Stanfield

Roy Roberts

Alexa Stanton

Alexa Roche

Melissa Stegall

Alejandro Rodriguez

Whitney Stuart

Richard Rangel

Stephanie Sloan

Miguel Reyes

Kristin Stanfield

Jerome Rios

Sarah Stannard

Sean Robinson

Elizabeth Steele

Frank Roche

Jessica Stokes

Cassandra Rodriguez

Tanner Swanson

Breeanna Roland Cynthia Romero J • CALIFORNIA FFA

T

Dace Taylor

Brianna Teese

Katie Tenneson Katelyn Titus Megan Toler

V

Ashley Van Buren Jaclyn Van Buren Kayla Vanaselja

Samantha Vargus

Joshua Veenendaal Anthony Verissimo Jovanni Villa Jake Vivar

Robert VyVlecka

W

Dylan Walley

Melissa Watkins

Zachary Weimortz

Taylor Weisenberger Laura White

Kaitlyn Whitmyre Kirsti Whitmyre Alisha Wilmoth Jared Wood

Bradley Wright Rachel Wright

X

Kou Xiong

Z

Michael Zavala

Vanessa Zendejas

Upcoming FFA Activities October

November

Oct. 2

Imperial FFA and SLC BB Tournament

Oct. 4

Greenhand Conference (Red Bluff )

Nov. 2

Greenhand (Clovis East) Orange Section FFA Open/Close (Mission Viejo HS)

Oct. 5

Greenhand (Lodi) Imperial Section CATA and FFA O/C Contest

Oct. 6

Ventura Section BIG/O&C – 4 p.m. (Santa Paula) MB Section Opening and Closing (Soledad HS) San Diego Section CATA and FFA O/C Contest

Nov. 3

Greenhand (Lemoore) Ventura Section Creed/NNN Parli Pro (Carpinteria) MB Section BIG and COOPS (Soquel) Shasta Section BIG, Co-Op, Farm Record Contests (West Valley HS, Cott) San Diego Section BIG Contest (El Camino HS)

Oct. 7

Greenhand (Lodi) Santa Clara Opening and Closing (Morgan Hill)

Nov. 4

Greenhand (Visalia)

Oct. 9

South Coast COLC (Hollister HS)

Nov. 6

SOCAL FFA Leadership Conference (Indio)

Oct. 10

South Coast CATA Meeting (Hollister HS)

Nov. 9

Imperial Section CATA and BIG/Creed Contest (Brawley HS)

Oct. 11

Greenhand (Porterville) SLO Section Opening and Closing (Morro Bay)

Nov. 10

Riverside Section FFA O/C Contest (Norte Vista)

Oct. 12

Greenhand (Bakersfield) Orange Section FFA Leadership Conference (Orange HS) Orange Section CATA Mtg. (Orange HS)

Nov. 12

High Desert SOLC (Pilgrim Pines)

Nov. 13

Superior Region FFA Officers Winter Retreat Meetin (Tulelake)

Oct. 13

Greenhand (Paso Robles)

Nov. 14

LA Section BIG and O/C – 4:30 p.m.

Oct. 14

Greenhand (Paso Robles) Shasta College Field Day (Shasta College, Redd) High Desert O/C and BIG Contests (Littlerock)

Oct. 15

Imperial Section Greenhand Conference (SDSU – Brawley)

Nov. 16

SLO Section CATA/FFA Creed and BIG (Paso Robles HS) Riverside Section CATA Mtg. (Norco HS) Shasta Section Administrators Night (Redding)

Oct. 18

Orange Section BIG (Westminster)

Oct. 20

National FFA Convention

Nov. 17

Greenhand (El Capitan) SB Section CATA/FFA BIG Contest (Nipomo) Intermountain Section Co-Op/BIG/Novice Record/Open (Big Valley HS, Biebe) High Desert Job Interview Entries Due (Apple Valley)

Oct. 25

O/C Invitational Contest (Buena Park)

Oct. 30

Riverside Section FFA Leadership Conference (Norte Vista)

Nov. 18

Greenhand (Heritage) SC Section BIG/COOP (Sobrato) North Valley Section Co-Op, Novice Records, BIG, O/C (Colusa High School)

CALIFORNIA CALIFORNIA FFA FFA •• K K

Chapter Scoops Esparto FFA Chapter Bringing Farming Back!

This year, Esparto FFA celebrated the new officer team with a three-day officer retreat to Quincy, California. During the retreat, the officers planned the entire FFA calendar for the upcoming school year and picked an overall theme to base the year on. The team also got an opportunity to get to know their fellow officers. After “a day of team building exercises involving herding cattle and working with horses, the team decided on their theme, ‘Bringing Farming Back’.

The 2010-2011 team hopes to use this theme to increase agricultural literacy in their chapter, as well as to kick off their new horticulture program. Go Esparto FFA!

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 they 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 Mindy Burris at: caffainsert@yahoo.com. See future due dates in the chapter scoop section.

LL •• CALIFORNIA CALIFORNIA FFA FFA

Chapter Scoops Continued Johansen FFA Chapter Poultry Receives High Awards On July 11, 2010 four members of the Johansen FFA Poultry Team competed at the California State Fair.

Jordan Dajani, Kimberly Arias, Cody Massengill and Nadia Dajani. These four young people exhibited two meat pens each with birds weighing between four and five pounds.

Johansen FFA member Kimberly Arias was the proud owner of the California State Fair Reserve Supreme Champion Poultry Meat Pen. However, if asked Kimberly will tell you it was a team win, as all four of these members raised the birds together. All four young people were excited to exhibit their project at the California State Fair and would like to thank the California Poultry Federation and Petaluma Poultry Association for supporting Kimberly in the Sale of Champions.

However, this accomplishment was not enough for these young people, on July 15, they exhibited their project at the Stanislaus County Fair. They were joined by the rest of the team, Austin Southern-Jaso, Ismael Garcia, Israel Garcia, Aimee Stone and Craig Puckett. This time Cody Massengill was the big winner, winning FFA Grand Champion. Again, he claims this as a team win.

The members then exhibited in Showmanship and came away with top honors in Advanced Meat Bird Showmanship, Jordan Dajani, first; Cody Massengill, second; Nadia Dajani, third; Kimberly Arias, fourth; Craig Puckett, fifth; and Ismael Garcia, seventh. Novice Showmanship was won by Nadia Dajani; Aimee Stone, second; Austin Southern-Jaso, fifth; and Israel Garcia, seventh.

Even with these top honors they were not done, Craig Puckett, took Best Mediterranean Fancy Bird, with his Sicilian Buttercup. Kimberly Arias, Ismael Garcia, Jordan Dajani, Nadia Dajani and Cody Massengill all exhibited Best of Breeds.

Johansen FFA Poultry was quite successful with their projects this year, and would like to thank Foster Farms for providing chicks to them for their project and purchasing the FFA Champion Meat Pen at the Stanislaus County Fair.

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 Mindy Burris at caffainsert@yahoo.com.

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CA FFA New Horizons Due Dates: February 2011 Material Deadline Date – 11/15/10 April 2011 Material Deadline Date – 1/24/11 August 2011 Material Deadline Date – 5/20/11

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Chapter Scoops Continued Littlerock FFA Chapter Written by Chelsey Jurkovac, Chapter Reporter On May 8, 2010 the Littlerock FFA Chapter hosted their first annual Agriculture and Environmental Expo, formerly known as the Littlerock High School Farm Day. We changed Farm Day into an Expo and opened it to the whole public, not just the elementary students.

We chose to hold our event on Saturdays instead of the traditional Friday, which allowed 215 people from our community to attend. The objective of the event was to educate not only the children, but also the adults about the benefits of agriculture. Everyone who attended was able to learn countless aspects of agriculture. We were able to teach our community how to xeriscape, transplant and more. All who attended were able to learn about natural resources, solar energy, horticulture and livestock.

For example, at the Green Planet display, it was demonstrated how to properly sort though their waste to help the environment and how to test for pollutants in the soil that may have seeped in. The children enjoyed solving wooden puzzles and playing fun science games like punnett squares, Benham’s disk, cross breeding games and more. The Expo was a huge success and we plan to keep teaching our community about the importance of agriculture for many years to come. This event involved a lot of help from the students, and it was exhilarating to see all of the families come for a family outing. The Littlerock FFA Chapter is looking forward to another great Expo coming in April of 2011.

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Chapter Scoops Continued Los Banos FFA Chapter Written by Toni Silva, Los Banos FFA Reporter

Many of the Los Banos FFA members showed at the Merced County fair that ran from June 14-20. As a chapter we did outstanding; having many wins and lots of fun. We would like to thank all the buyers at the livestock auction for there generous support in purchasing our animals and the award donors for there kind donations.

The results are as follows: In beef we had one exhibitor Shane Nelson, who once again did a fantastic job; winning beef showmanship participating in round robbin and receiving second. In his market class he received reserve grand champion steer and won first in his heifer class!

In Dairy Caitlin Allen won dairy showmanship and went to round robbin also and placed fourth. She also placed second with both of her registered heifers.

Toni Silva placed first with her grade cow. Taylor Pires got first with one of her registered cows and third with her other cow. Kelly Lopes placed first with her grade heifer, Gabe Borba got first with one of his heifers and received third in the final round of showmanship. Paul Borba got second with his heifer and sixth in the final round of showmanship. Rachel Brum received second with her grade heifer, and Alyssa Melo got second with her registered cow.

Franklin Silva received second with his grade cow.

Jane Demos placed second with her registered heifer.

Celeste Lozano placed third with her grade heifer.

Lastly in the Dairy show Jeane Cardoza placed fourth with her registered heifer.

In Pigs Josh Hatfield placed third in his market class, and Michelle Cecil also placed third in her market class.

In the Sheep show Lauren Neves placed fifth in showmanship and first in market, and fourth and third in her breeding class. Melissa Silva placed third with her market lamb, and Morgan Hurley received reserve FFA Suffolk champion and seventh in

Merced Fair Participants after the awards.

L-R back row: Flavio Castro, Josh Hatfield, Hayley Hatfield, David Mclary, Jane Demoss, Michelle Cecil, Shane Nelson. L-R middle row: Gabe Borba, Paul Borba, Paul Torres, Cassie Menezes, Caitlin Allen, Dana Carlotti, Kelly Lopes, Jenae Cardoza, Alyssa Melo, Morgan Hurley, Kara Orr and Dustin Helmer.

L-R bottom row: Amanda Flores, Taylor Pires, Celeste Lazano, Lauren Neves, Melissa Silva, Toni Silva and Franklin Silva.

Shane Nelson showing his 1st place heifer!

showmanship. Dana Carlotti’s market lamb got reserve grand champion hamp, and her breeding ewe got supreme champion. She won sheep showmanship and participated in master showmanship and received sixth. Cassie Menezes got reserve FFA champion and received fourth in showmanship. Aubrey Figuerora got second in her market class and Kara Orr got Reserve champion weather type ewe and third in showmanship.

David Mclary won lads and ladies. Jaimie Brown placed sixth with her market lamb.

In the Goat show Toni Silva placed fourth with her breeding goat, another fourth with her other breeding goat and placed seventh in advanced showmanship.

In the Rabbit show Delaine Inman won advance showmanship for rabbits and placed second in small animal round robbin. Hayley Hatfield placed fifth with her meat pen, and Michelle Cecil placed sixth with her meat pen. Amanda Flores placed third in rabbit showmanship. Overall Los Banos FFA had a great fair!

CALIFORNIA FFA • O

Chapter Scoops Continued Nipomo FFA Chapter What a year! After the school year comes to an end a new one is right around the corner. Nipomo FFA just ended the year with the Spring Banquet, which was a huge success.

More than 225 people attended the event and were welcomed to a fabulous BBQ chicken dinner and a following ceremony. The new officers were installed and members were recognized for their achievements throughout the year.

Students who have participated in Competitive Career Development Events statewide were recognized for their efforts, they are as follow: Horse Evaluation and Livestock Evaluation teams, Parliamentary Procedure team, Job Interview, Creed Recitation, Prepared Public Speaking, Extemporaneous Public Speaking, Marketing Plan, and Best Informed Greenhand were all given a large hand of applause for their hard work.

Star Greenhands were Diana Krichevsky and Riley Nilsen, while the Star Chapter Farmer was awarded to Miles Mankins. Twenty Proficiency winners were recognized and 19 Degree Recipients were announced.

A slideshow was revealed of the leaving seniors as a tribute to parents, friends and guests. Many seniors were given scholarships for their upcoming college adventures. The Ag Friends awarded $5,000 in scholarships and the CWA gave $3,000.

As we say goodbye to our old officers who have lead us in a year of success, we say hello to the newly elected officers for the 2010-2011 year. All officers are eager to begin the year and have worked hard to get where they are. Anneke Dobbe – President, Tyler Menane – Vice President, Peyton Maas – Secretary, Diana Krichevsky – Treasurer, Riley Nilsen – Reporter and Miles Mankins – Sentinel. Nipomo is extremely proud of all the chapter has accomplished and wishes the best for the year to come!

FFA Contest How has FFA changed YOUR life?

In 200 words or less, describe the impact that FFA has made on your life. Please include a head and shoulder picture of yourself and e-mail it to caffainsert@yahoo.com by Nov. 5, 2010.

P • CALIFORNIA FFA