INTENSIFY - 88th Colorado FFA State Convention by Prairie Mountain Media

Sterling, CO. June 7-9, 2016

Welcome, blue and gold Dear FFA members, State Convention attendees, and the community of Sterling, Welcome to the 88th Colorado FFA State Convention at Northeastern Junior College in the great town of Sterling! This is one of our favorite times of the year: celebrating the start of summer, preparing for competitions, and reconnecting with friends from other chapters and making new ones. Last time State Convention was held in Sterling, it was June of 2013. We have so many great memories from our state conventions like making late night trips to Sonic for ice cream, having our advisers hang our State Degree chains, and competing in some of our favorite competitions. Jumping forward to the present, this year as State Officers we have traveled around the entire state of Colorado and have seen how FFA chapters are making a huge impact on their schools and communities. Conferences and workshops are sparking change in all corners of the state, members are learning the skills needed for their future careers, and leaders

Courtesy photo

The 2015-16 State FFA Officer Team. Back row, from left: Rayna Hodgson, vice president (Platte Valley); Tia Rozell, executive committee member (Soroco); Emma Mortensen, president (Brush); Bryce Funk, secretary (New Raymer); Tierney Wilson, executive committee member (Cortez). Front row, from left; Whitney Mount, executive committee (Brush); Nick Vollmer, sentinel (Merino); Rachael Latta, treasurer (Cedaredge); Kaila Thieman, executive committee (Fruita); and Megan Thormodsgard, reporter (Briggsdale).

are investing in the lives of those around them. State Convention will hopefully take all these amazing things and make them even better through our theme of INTENSIFY. Throughout Convention, we will be hearing from and celebrating those who

embody the theme of INTENSIFY. We will recognize those who INTENSIFY their involvement in FFA through State Proficiencies, Career Development Events, State Star awards, and State FFA Degrees. The National Chapter Award will high-

light chapters who INTENSIFY their members, schools, and communities. Keynote speakers, representatives from other organizations, and the retiring addresses of State Officers will present ideas that we can take back home and INTENSIFY our communi-

Congratulations

ties. Keynote activity workshops, new to convention this year, will INTENSIFY everyone’s ability to advocate for agriculture. Ten individuals will INTENSIFY their leadership and grow Colorado FFA as our next team of State Officers. What better way to celebrate a successful year and kick-start a new one? We are so excited for each FFA member, adviser, and guest that will be a part of this year’s convention. Over 1,000 blue jackets will INTENSIFY the town of Sterling on June 7 through the 9 , 2016; the people we will meet and the memories we will make are sure to be remembered for years to come. Be prepared to INTENSIFY your commitment, your experience, your impact, your potential, your voice, and your future at the 88th Colorado FFA State Convention! Sincerely, The 2015-2016 Colorado FFA State Officer Team: Emma Mortensen, Rayna Hodgson, Bryce Funk, Rachael Latta, Megan Thormodsgard, Nick Vollmer, Tia Rozell, Whitney Mount, Kaila Thieman and Tierney Wilson

FFA members on a successful year! Enjoy your convention

Advisors

Greg Ditter, Danica Farnik and Dennis Bostron 2 • JUNE 7, 2016 • STATE FFA CONVENTION

Proudly supporting the Local FFA Students an s!

Courtesy photo

The 2012-13 State FFA Officer Team that led the last State FFA Convention held in Sterling included, front row, from left; Bekka McCaleb, secretary; Kent Ochsner, state FFA adviser; Kristen Schmidt, president, back row, from left; Mitch Stahley, treasurer; Lance Gilbert, vice president; and Kendall Wilkins, sentinel.

Remembering the 2013 State FFA Convention By the 2015-16 State FFA Officer Team

Sterling. Theme: Exceed State Officer Team: In June of 2013 just over 1,600 President — Kristen Schmidt Colorado FFA members took on Vice President — Lance Gilbert the town of Sterling for the 85th Secretary — Bekka McCaleb annual Colorado FFA State ConTreasurer — Mitch Stahley vention. Together they conquered Sentinel — Kendall Wilkins boundaries, achieved dreams, and State Degree Recipients: 263 wrote their own stories of success, State Winners: all while learning to EXCEED! Parliamentary Procedure: WindNow, three years later, members sor will make new memories, engage Quiz Bowl: Platte Valley in this organization, and discover Creed: Caitlyn Ochsner, Platte what it means to INTENSIFY their Valley experience in the blue jacket. Extemporaneous Speaking: BraMembers are sure to make history dy Stump, New Raymer Prepared Speaking: Ross Stump, as they conquer all at the 88th New Raymer Annual Colorado FFA State ConState Star Farmer: Abigail Reinvention, yet the roots that we ick, Platte Valley come from have laid the foundaState Star in Agriculture Placetion for the triumphs we see today. ment: Ben Smith, Hotchkiss With so much success sure to be State Star in Agriscience: Ashtin had this year, it is important to Hulse, Lone Star reminisce in some of the many State Star in Agribusiness: memories that were made last Landon Eseray, Cheyenne Wells time the convention convened in

Callie Jones / Journal-Advocate file photo

The Bank of Colorado Events Center at NJC was filled with a sea of Blue and Gold during the 2013 State FFA Convention. Approximately 1,000 students are expected to attend this year’s convention June 7-9, at NJC.

Goo uck at the 88th Annual FFA State Convention!

28601 Hwy 34, PO BOX 506 Brush, CO 80723 Phone: 970-842-5115 • 970-380-5088 www.livestockexchange.org e-mail: livestockexchange@hotmail.com STATE FFA CONVENTION • JUNE 7, 2016 • 3

FFA and agricultural trivia How well do you know the FFA organization and agricultural in general, take the following quiz and find out. 1. What metal pin symbolizes the Green Hand Degree? A. Bronze B. Silver C. Gold D. None of the above 2. Match the Symbols of offices in the FFA A. Advisor B. President C. Vice President D. Sentinel E. Executive Committee F. Secretary G. Treasurer H. Reporter 1. Ear of corn 2. Rising sun 3. Plow 4. Washington 5. Flag 6. Hand clasp 7. Owl 8. Emblem of FFA 3. How many proficiency awards are available? A. 29 B. 26 C. 30 D. 20 4. At what National FFA Convention was the dress code adopted? A. 1929 B. 1950 C. 1976 D. 1969 5. On who’s birthday is FFA Week every year? A. Thomas Jefferson B. Henry Groseclose C. George Washington D. E.M Tiffany 6. A new member must recite what? A. Creed B. FFA Moto C. FFA Purpose D. All of the above 7. What percent of the members

earn their American FFA Degree? A. 1% B. 0.5% C. 2% D. 15% 8. At what National FFA Convention was the creed revised? A. 1938 B. 1929 C. 1963 D. A and C E. B and C 9. What year were the FFA colors adopted? A. 1929 B. 1938 C. 1969 D. None of the above 10. What year did the Colorado FFA receive its chapter? A. 1930 B. 1929 C. 1942 D. 1935 11. Where is the National FFA Headquarters? A. Washington, D.C. B. Alexandria, Virginia C. Indianapolis, Indiana D. Louisville, Kentucky 12. Who is the commissioner of ag? A. Dan Glickman B. Don Brown C. John Salazar 13. Colorado leads the nation in _______ production? A. Hay B. Wheat C. Lamb D. Beef 14. What percentage of their income do consumers in the U.S. spend on food? A. 10-15% B. 16-17% C. 25-30% 15. What is an average rib eye area of a market lamb? A. 3 in square B. 2.5 in square C. 2 in square D. 1.75 in square 16. What percent of the US

population is involved in food production? A. 4% B. 1-3% C. 20% D. 13% 17. Most valuable crop grown in the US? A. Wheat B. Soy Beans C. Corn D. Sugar Beets 18. What state leads in wheat production? A. North Dakota B. Texas C. Kansas D. A and B E. B and C F. C and A 19. How many tons of manure will an average beef cow produce each year? A. 8.5 B. 9 C. 8 D. 7.5 20. How many farms are in Colorado? A. 45,120 B. 25,607 C. 34,200 D. 51,996 Answers: 1. A 2. A-7, B-2, C-3, D-6, E-8, F-1, G-4, H-5 3. A 4. C 5. B 6. A 7. B 8. A and C 9. A 10. B 11. B 12. B. 13. C 14. B 15. B 16. B 17. C 18. A and B 19. A 20. C

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4 • JUNE 7, 2016 • STATE FFA CONVENTION

FFA Creed I believe in the future of agriculture, with a faith born not of words but of deeds —achievements won by the present and past generations of agriculturists; in the promise of better days through better ways, even as the better things we now enjoy have come to us from the struggles of former years. I believe that to live and work on a good farm, or to be engaged in other agricultural pursuits, is pleasant as well as challenging; for I know the joys and discomforts of agricultural life and hold an inborn fondness for those associations which, even in hours of discouragement, I cannot deny. I believe in leadership from ourselves and respect from others. I believe in my own ability to work efficiently and think clearly,with such knowledge and skill as I can secure, and in the ability of progressive agriculturists to ser ve our own and the public interest in producing and marketing the product of our toil. I believe in less dependence on begging and more power in bargain-

ing; in the life abundant and enough honest wealth to help make it so--for others as well as myself; in less need for charity and more of it when needed; in being happy myself and playing square with those whose happiness depends upon me. I believe that American agriculture can and will hold true to the best traditions of our national life and that I can exert an influence in my home and community which will stand solid for my part in that inspiring task. The creed was written by E.M. Tif fany, and adopted at the 3rd National Convention of the FFA. It was revised at the 38th Convention and the 63rd Convention.

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STATE FFA CONVENTION • JUNE 7, 2016 • 5

CHAPTER UPDATE

Sterling FFA members compete in state agriscience fair By Callie Jones Journal-Advocate staff writer

While the Sterling FFA Chapter had a large number of greenhands (firstyear members) this year, it didn’t stop them from being active in all kinds of competitions and events. Some of the chapter’s activities this year have included going to Campbell Elementary to present a “Food for America” program, where they talked to the younger students about agriculture and FFA. In September, the chapter was part of Sugar Beet Days, putting on a petting zoo and allowing visitors to get an up-close look at various animals. March brought the chapter’s annual oyster fry and member auction. Also, in April, they put on their second annual livestock show at the Logan County Fairgrounds, which was initiated by member Riley Meisner, to give students a chance to practice showing their animals before the Logan County Fair in

State FFA Degree Candidates Abbey Brower Brenden Gunwall Peyton Kloberdanz

ners included: Equine Science Placement, Abbey Brower; Grain Crops Callie Jones / Journal-Advocate file photo Entrepreneurship, Kirstyn The 2015-16 Sterling High School FFA officers, from right; Amanda Yetter, president; Austin Fritzler; Poultry ProducBornhoft, vice president; Katie Swanson, secretary; Kennedy Kjosness, treasurer; Peyton tion Placement, Brendan Kloberdanz, reporter; Braedon Kloberdanz, sentinel; Emily Rutherford and Cooper Carlson, Gunwall and Danny Sonexecutive committee members; and Riley Meisner, parliamentarian. Not pictured is Kirstyn nenberg; Beef Production Fritzler, executive committee member. Placement, Amanda Yetter; Agriscience, Kylee Harless; zler and Emily Rutherford, Events May 1 and 2 in Fort Ag Communications PlaceAugust. ment, Cassidy Paxton; The chapter also had a executive committee mem- Collins, including: Emily visit from one of the state Diversified Livestock ProRutherford and Lilly bers; and Riley Meisner, FFA officers. Hodge, floriculture; Cooper duction Entrepreneurship, parliamentarian. At the chapter’s annual The banquet also includ- Carlson, Cassidy Paxton, Cooper Carlson; Sheep awards banquet in May, Abbey Brower and Riley ed the presentation of a Production Entrepreneurthe 2015-16 officers were number of awards. Jessica Meisner, ag sales; and Aus- ship, Riley Meisner; Swine recognized. They include: tin Bornhoft and Braedon Swanson and Ian Cone Production EntrepreneurAmanda Yetter, president; were recognized for Creed and Peyton Kloberdanz, ship, Peyton and Braedon Austin Bornhoft, vice presi- Speaking, Amanda Yetter field crops. Klobderdanz; and Environdent; Katie Swanson, secre- and Daniel Sonnenberg for Additionally, it was mental and Natural tary; Kennedy Kjosness, announced Riley Meisner Prepared Public Speaking Resources Systems, Matt treasurer; Peyton Kloberand Peyton Kloberdanz and Kirstyn Fritzler for Wheeler, and Chaz and danz, reporter; Kylee Har- Extemporaneous Speaking. would be competing in the Davis Lebsock. less, historian; Braedon Agriscience Fair at the Also honored were indiThe banquet ended with Kloberdanz, sentinel; Coo- viduals who competed in State FFA Convention. the installation of the 2016per Carlson, Kirstyn FritProficiency award winstate Career Development 17 officer team: Riley Meisner, president; Kirstyn Fritzler, vice president; Jessica Swanson and Jason Frank, executive committee; Ian Cone, parliamentarian; Cassidy Paxton, historian; Braedon Kloberdanz, sentinel; Cooper Carlson, treasurer; Peyton Kloberdanz, secretary; and Kylee Harless, reporter. Sterling FFA chapter members are looking forward to attending the State FFA Convention, where Callie Jones / Journal-Advocate file photo Courtesy Photo they will compete in events Sterling FFA Chapter brought a petting zoo to Sugar Beet Sterling FFA members talk to Campbell Elementary students and several will receive Days, allowing children to get up close with various animals. about agriculture and FFA during a "Food for America" event. State FFA Degrees.

6 • JUNE 7, 2016 • STATE FFA CONVENTION

CHAPTER UPDATE

Courtesy Photo

The Peetz FFA chapter members pose for a photo.

Peetz FFA to have several members recognized at state By Peetz FFA

The Peetz FFA chapter is a diverse chapter with 33 outstanding members and a great adviser, Mike Forster. Our chapter celebrated FFA Week with some great activities throughout the school which included: chicken poop bingo, Ag around the World day, egg roulette, an egg toss, and our Barnyard Olympics. On St. Patrick’s Day, we had our annual Oyster Fry and Student Auction, which drew an audience of about 500 people. The Student Auction was a large success as well, selling close to 200 hours worth of labor. The chapter had great success at District CDE’s (Career Development Events). The crop evaluation team of Sarah Davis, Adam Davis, and Logan Sircy earned first as a team and Adam took first place individual. The Horse Evaluation team of Katie Buss, Payton Swedlund, and Tyra Foreman were the first place team. Greenhands Sarah Davis, Jakob Kurz, and Bryson Long were the top team in the District Quiz Bowl. Hunter White, James Ommen, Tre Fehringer, and Sarah-Kate Splichal were the

State FFA Degree Candidates Shawn Bernhardt Garrin Cox Adam Davis Tyra Foreman James Ommen Jodie Schumacher Payton Swedlund

Northeastern Junior College and the City of Sterling, Colorado are proud to be selected by Colorado FFA to be one of the three rotation host sites for your annual Convention. Enjoy 2016 and we’re already looking forward to 2019! After your success with the

first place team for veterinary science. At State CDE’s the Crop Evaluation team earned silver, with Adam Davis earning Gold Individual and Sarah Davis earning silver. The district quiz bowl team will be competing at State Convention. Eight of our members will also be receiving State Degrees at State Convention, James Ommen, Jodie Schumacher, Garrin Cox, Payton Swedlund, Shawn Bernhardt, Adam Davis, and Tyra Foreman. Adam Davis, a senior, will receive the State winning Poultry Production Proficiency at State Convention. He is also a State Star Farmer Candidate and will go through interviews and vie for the highest award given to a member at the state level.

we hope you’ll consider the

Proud to partner with Colorado FFA Sterling, Colorado

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STATE FFA CONVENTION • JUNE 7, 2016 • 7

CHAPTER UPDATE

Weldon Valley fills year with activities By Brandon Boles Times Sports Reporter

The Weldon Valley FFA program had some big events this school year. The membership had a very busy second semester of school, starting with the student project showcase in February. Parents and community members were invited as FFA showcased their shop projects they were working on. Not long after the student project showcase, the program was busy promoting its FFA week in late February. A few members went to 1010 KSIR for an interview to explain all the events going on. A motivational speech from local members kicked off the week for the program. During FFA week, the Colorado FFA Association also held a photo challenge for all programs to participate in. Photos for ag teacher appreciation, spirit, best dressed, career day, and more were shared, promoting FFA through social media. FFA week was also a

Kelsey Criswell / Courtesy Photo

Weldon Valley FFA's vice president, Rebeckah Ruland, teaches younger children how to care for rabbits.

Courtesy Photo / Weldon Valley FFA

The Weldon Valley FFA group pose for a photo.

teaching week for the students as they worked with elementary school children to teach them about different animals and safety procedures in the ag industry. On hand for the teaching were horses, cows, bottle calf, rabbit, chicken, lambs, and a tractor safety unit. There were also a number of breakfasts put on by the program during the week. There was a breakfast for the Weldon Valley teachers and staff for their appreciation, and another one in the ag shop the same week was set up for the local farmers.

Perhaps the biggest event the FFA program puts on each year is their hired hand auction. The event is the biggest money maker of the year, and most of the money goes helping the students attend events such as state convention and CDE’s, which are great experiences and learning opportunities for the members. This school year, the chapter had many members place at their district CDE. Winning first place was the vet science team of Melissa Jo Hawkins, See WELDON, pg. 9

Achievements to be recognized By Kelsey Criswell Weldon Valley FFA reporter

Our chapter had a ver y successful FFA week this year. In my opinion our best activity was our “Ag in the Classroom.” We had several of our upperclassmen bring in their livestock to teach the younger kids about the animals and how they are important to us. We also had a tractor to teach them about safety on the farm and a branding station to teach them the importance of branding our livestock. We added a new com-

State FFA Degree Candidates Chelsey Clifford Trevor Johnson Mickeyann Kreigh Rebeckhah Ruland

munity ser vice this year which was Farmer’s Coffee. We invited local farmers and ranchers to join FFA members in the Ag room for coffee and donuts. They also educated each other on how they spent their time, whether it was planting See RECOGNIZED, pg. 9

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8 • JUNE 7, 2016 • STATE FFA CONVENTION

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RECOGNIZED from page 8

File photo / Fort Morgan Times

The Weldon Valley hired hand auction is one of the biggest events during the school year for the FFA program.

WELDON from page 8 Kelsey Criswell, Brittney Leist, and Courtney Petersen. Kirsten Wood was second in horse judging, while the floriculture team of Karissa Schulte, Britney

Filter, and Dylan Wilkins also took second. The livestock judging team of Levi Hawkins, Madison Sneddon, and Trevor Johnson was third.

or herding for the farmers, or going to conventions and working on SAE projects for the members. We unfortunately have no one competing at the state convention. But we do have many people receiving awards. Our state degree winners were Rebeckah Ruland, Chelsey Clifford, Trevor Johnson and Mickey Kriegh. We had two people apply for their proficiency awards and they both placed. Melissa Hawkins was a bronze recipient in Ag Sales and Chelsey Clifford was a silver recipient in Food Science. We also have a freshman being recognized for receiving a heifer grant. His name is Levi

FFA TING A E R C

… S R E LEAD

L L I G CAR

G N I Y PLO

Kelsey Criswell / Courtesy photo

Weldon Valley FFA freshman Tyler McKracken and senior Trevor Johnson teach about branding.

Hawkins. Karissa Shulte will be recognized for her heifer wrangle, which ends this year. In the last few weeks,

ENJOY YOUR TIME AT THE 88TH STATE FFA CONVENTION. Good luck on all of competency events. We are proud of the fine technical and leadership skills that the FFA organization teaches You - The Leaders of Tomorrow!

! S R E D A LE

our chapter started a small community garden that will be run by our FFA members, and the food will be free to the community.

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STATE FFA CONVENTION • JUNE 7, 2016 • 9

Caliche has 5 state degree recipients By Callie Jones Journal-Advocate staff writer

The Caliche FFA Chapter had another successful year this year and is looking forward to participating in the State FFA Convention. Among the chapter’s many activities this year were selling fruit as a fundraiser, doing many community service projects and participating in district, state and national events, all while striving to be the best at everything they do. In April the chapter held its annual hog roast and labor auction, which was once again a success, and May brought the chapter’s awards celebration. The celebration included recognition of the 2015-16 officer team: Kyle Etl, president; Trent Marick, vice president; Terrell Devie, secretary; Kent Summers, treasurer; Blayne Stump, reporter; Skyler Armstrong, sentinel; and Makeya Hernandez and Matt Dedrickson, executive committee members. Additionally, numerous awards were handed out that evening. The Distinguished Service Award, combined along with the DeKalb Agricultural Accomplishment Award, was given to Etl. Proficiency Awards were

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State FFA Degree Candidates Trent Chartier Terrell Devie Trent Marick Marissa Ritter Kent Summers

Blayne Stump, horticulture; and Bryce Hill, dairy cow evaluations. The celebration ended with the installation of the 2016-17 chapter officers: Trent Marick, president; Terrell Devie, vice president; Kinlie Lewis, secretary; Jacqueline Bright, treasurer; Jamie Kielian, reporter; Bryce Hill, sentinel; Brooke Stromberger, parliamentarian; and Talor Devie, Clayton FunkhousJournal-Advocate file photo er, Matthew Dedrickson, Caliche FFA ‘s 2015-16 chapter officers. Back row, from left; Trent Marick, vice president; executive committee memSkylar Armstrong, sentinel; Kyle Etl, president; Kent Summers, treasurer; and Cassidy Pax- bers. During the State FFA ton, secretary. Front row, from left; Makeya Hernandez, executive committee member; JacConvention, Kinlie Lewis queline Bright, parliamentarian; and Matthew Dedrickson, executive committee member. will be competing in the Not pictured is Blayne Stump, reporter. State Creed Speaking Contest and Marissa Ritter, Students recognized for presented to: Michael Fos- proficiency; Terrell Devie, who won the agricultural ter, ag sales; Taylor Hough- power structural and tech- CDE (Career Development repair and maintenance Events) participation were: proficiency area at the state ton, diversified ag producnical system research. Devie was also congratu- Brooke Stromberger, Kyle level, will be recognized tion placement; Skyler Etl, Kinlie Lewis and Jamie and show what her SAE lated on his hard work on Armstrong, ag mechanics Kielian, ag sales team; the shed that the ag class and fabrication; Matthew (Supervised Agricultural Morgan Duncan, Kent Dedrickson, sheep produc- sold. Experience) consists of State FFA Degrees were Summers, Skyler Armtion; Trent Marick, swine during a presentation for production; Marissa Ritter, awarded to: Trenton Chart- strong and Florentyna sponsors. Schaefer, vet science; ier, Marissa Ritter, Terrell ag mechanics repair and Additionally, the chapMarissa Ritter, Jacqueline Devie, Trent Marick and maintenance placement; ter’s five State FFA Degree Bright, Ebony Lester and Kent Summers. Trenton Chartier, forage recipients will be honored.

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COLORADO STATE FFA CONVENTION SCHEDULE June 7-9, Northeastern Junior College Tuesday, June 7

7:30-9 a.m.: Career Show Exhibitor Set-Up, Bank of Colorado Events Center (BCEC) Auxiliary Gym 8:30-9 a.m.: Prepared Public Speaking Contestant and Advisor Meeting, E.S. French Hall (ESF) room 126 8:30-9 a.m.: Prepared Public Speaking Judges Report, Monahan Library, room 106 9-11 a.m.: Prepared Public Speaking Pool 1, ESF room 126 9-11 a.m.: Prepared Public Speaking Pool 2, Hays Student Center (HSC) room 230 9-11 a.m.: Prepared Public Speaking Holding Room, ESF room 127 9:30-10 a.m.: Creed Speaking Judges Report, Library room 106

9:30 a.m.-3 p.m.: SAE, Star and Agriscience Fair Set-Up, BCEC Auxiliary Gym 9:30-10:30 a.m.: Delegate Orientation, BCEC Gym 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m., Check-in of Chapter Scrapbooks, BCEC, room 203 9:45-10 a.m.: Creed Speaking Contestant Advisor Meeting, HSC Ballroom 10 a.m.-noon: Parliamentary Procedure Written Exam, ESF theatre 10 a.m.-1 p.m.: Creed Speaking Event, HSC Ballroom 10 a.m.-1 p.m.: Creed Speaking Holding Room, HSC room 219 10:30 a.m.-noon: Delegate Committee Meetings 10:45-11:30 a.m.: Extemporaneous Speaking Contestant and Advisor Meeting, ESF room 124 11-11:30 a.m.: Extemporaneous Speaking Judges Check-In, Library room 106 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.: Extemporaneous Preparation Room, ESF 121

11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.: Extemporaneous Speaking Holding Room, ESF room 124 noon-4 p.m.: Registration, BCEC room 203 noon-2 p.m.: Extemporaneous Speaking Pool 1, ESF room 126 noon-2 p.m.: Extemporaneous Speaking Pool 2, HSC 230 1-4 p.m.: Volleyball Tournament, Beede Hamil (BD) Hall lawn 2-4 p.m.: Delegate Committee Meetings 2-2:30 p.m.: Parliamentary Procedure Judges Report, Library room 106 2-2:30 p.m.: Parliamentary Procedure Team and Advisor Team Meeting, ESF theatre 2:30-4:30 p.m.: Parliamentary Procedure Pool 1, HSC Ballroom 2:30-4:30 p.m.: Parliamentary Procedure Pool 2, ESF theatre 2:30-4:30 p.m.: Parliamentary Procedure Holding Room, HSC room 230 4-6 p.m.: Talent Audition, ESF room 131

4-6 p.m.: Opening Dinner, BH Lawn 3:30-4 p.m.: Courtesy Corp Orientation, HSC Cafeteria 6:30-8:45 p.m.: Opening Session, BCEC Gym 9:30-11 p.m., Concert, BCEC Gym

Wednesday, June 8

8-10 a.m.: CVATA Committee Meetings, BH rooms 10, 13, 15 8-10 a.m.: Heifer Wrangle Interviews, BH 19 8-8:30 a.m.: Pre-Session, BCEC Gym 8:30-10 a.m.: Session 2, BCEC Gym 8-8:30 a.m.: Agriscience Fair Judges Report, Library room 106 8:30-9 a.m.: Agriscience Fair Contestant Meeting, BCEC Auxiliary Gym 8-8:30 a.m.: State Star Finalist Judges Report, Library room 106 8:30-10 a.m., State Star Finalist Interviews, BCEC Auxiliary Gym 9 a.m.-1 p.m.: Agriscience

Fair, BCEC Auxiliary Gym 10 a.m.-5 p.m.: Career Show, BCEC Auxiliary Gym 9:30-10 a.m.: Parliamentary Procedure Team and Advisory Meeting, ESF room 124 9:30-11:30 a.m.: Parliamentary Procedure Finals Holding Room, ESF room 124 9:30-10 a.m.: Parliamentary Procedure Judges Report, Library room 106 10-11:30 a.m.: Parliamentary Procedures Finals, ESF theatre 10-11 a.m.: Quiz Bowl Written Exam, ESF room 126 10-11:30 a.m.: Keynote Activity 1 10-11:30 a.m.: Delegate Committee Meetings 12:15-12:30 p.m.: Extemporaneous Speaking Finals Contestants Report, ESF room 124 12:30-3 p.m.: Extemporaneous Speaking Finals Preparation Room, ESF room 121 12:30-3 p.m.: Extemporaneous Speaking Finals See SCHEDULE, pg. 12

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Northeastern Campus Map

20 21

Wh ite College Avenue

Stone Ct.

Avard Avenue

Landrum Lane

9 2

Green Lot

Blue Lot

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Entrance

P Black Lot

Northeastern Way

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Magnolia Lane

Red Lot

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To North Campus

13 US 138

Orange Lot

Broadway Shopping Center nce

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Equine Facility

(Not to Scale)

North Campus

Franklin Street

Entrance

Pioneer Road

Hagen Street

Hagen Elementary School

Soccer Field Verde Avenue

Handicap Entrance

E1 Sidney Avenue

Entrance

Division Avenue

Pawnee Avenue

Equine Facility - (LCFG) Logan County Fairgrounds E-1. Equine Program Horse Facilities E-2. Indoor Arena/Equine Classrooms E-3. Outdoor Practice Arena E-4. Grandstands E-5. Outdoor Competition Arena North Campus N-1. Area Vocational Building (NAV) N-2. Lebsack-Schmidt Hall (NLB) N-3. Plainsmen Baseball Field Complex N-4. Welding Building (NEW) N-5. Soccer Field

Sidney Avenue

1. Main Entrance 2. Family Literacy/ESL 3. Cosmetology Center (NCO) 4. Williams Residence Hall 5. Guenzi-Read-Breidenbach Residence Hall 6. Poole Residence Hall 7. E.S. French Hall/Dorothy Corsberg Theatre (NES) 8. Clock Tower 9. Phillips Whyman Hall (NPW) 10. Knowles Hall-Monahan Library (NKH) 11. Chuckwagon Cafeteria 12. Hays Student Center/Tennant Art Gallery (NZH) 13. Bank of Colo. Event Center/Gym (NEC/NGY) 14. Walker Hall Administrative Building (NWH) 15. Blue Spruce Residence Hall 16. Dowis ResidenceHall 17. Herboldsheimer Residence Hall ce 18. Beede-Hamil Hall (NBH) ran Ent 1 19. Maintenance Garage 20. Physical Plant Office Cleveland St. 21. Physical Plant Garage 22. Fleet Car Garage 23. Greenhouse 24. LongBerg Hall

P Baseball N4 Complex

To Main Campus Courtesy Graphic

SCHEDULE from page 11 Holding Room, ESF room 124 12:30-1 p.m.: Extemporaneous Speaking Finals Judges Report, Library room 106 1-3 p.m.: Extemporaneous Speaking Finals, ESF theatre 12:30-1 p.m.: Pre-Session, BCEC Gym 1-2 p.m.: Session 3, BCEC Gym 1-2 p.m.: Award Reception, BCEC Auxiliary Gym 2-3:30 p.m.: SAE Career Fair Activity, BCEC Auxiliary Gym 2-4 p.m.: Business Meeting 1, BCEC Gym

2:30-3 p.m.: Prepared Public Speaking Finals Contestants Report, ESF room 124 2:30-3 p.m.: Prepared Public Speaking Final Judges Report, Library room 106 3-5 p.m.: Prepared Public Speaking Holding Room, ESF room 124 3-5 p.m.: Prepared Public Speaking Finals, ESF theatre 3:30-4:30 p.m.: Career Chat, BCEC Gym 4:30-5 p.m.: Ice Cream Social, BCEC Foyer 5-6:30 p.m.: Alumni Feed Trough, Clocktower Courtyard 5-6:30 p.m.: State FFA

12 • JUNE 7, 2016 • STATE FFA CONVENTION

Degree Recognition Banquet, BCEC Auxiliary Gym 5-7 p.m.: Sponsor Social, ESF Atrium 6:30-7 p.m.: Talent Show, BCEC Gym 7-7:30 p.m.: Pre-Session, BCEC Gym 7:30-9:45 p.m., Session 4, BCEC Gym 10-11 p.m., Magic Show, BCEC Gym

Thursday, June 9

8-8:30 a.m.: Pre-Session, BCEC Gym 8:30-10 a.m.: Session 5, BCEC Gym

9 a.m.-1:30 p.m.: Career Show, BCEC Auxiliary Gym 9:30-10 a.m.: Quiz Bowl Team and Advisor Meeting, ESF room 126 10 a.m.-noon: Keynote Activity 2 10 a.m.-noon: Business Meeting 2, BCEC Gym 10 a.m.-noon: Quiz Bowl Team Pool 1, HSC Ballroom 10 a.m.-noon: Quiz Bowl Team Pool 2, ESF theatre 10 a.m.-noon: Quiz Bowl Holding Room, ESF room 126 1-1:30 p.m.: Pre-Session, BCEC Gym 1:30-4 p.m.: Session 6, BCEC Gym

5:30-7:30 p.m.: Old and New Officer’s Dinner, cafeteria 6:30-9 p.m.: Past State Officer’s Reunion, Riverview Golf Course Foundation Office — BCEC room 203 VIP Room — BCEC Balcony Official Convention Photos — BCEC room 150 Ag Teacher Lounge — HSC room 207 T-Shirt Sale — BCEC Concessions Rising Sun Show — BCEC Foyer We Are FFA — BCEC Foyer

SESSION HIGHLIGHTS SCHEDULE Opening Session

Wednesday, June 8, 7:30 to 9:45 p.m. Theme: Intensify Your CommitCo-Chairs: Megan Thormodsgard ment and Kaila Thieman Tuesday, June 7, 6:30 to 8:45 p.m. Opening Ceremony Co-Chairs: Emma Mortensen and Greetings – Don Brown, Colorado Tia Rozell Commissioner of Agriculture Opening ceremony Presentation of the Creed Welcome to the Conference State Star in Agribusiness Finalists Invocation Sponsor Recognition – Mark ReinPosting of Colors hert, Colorado FFA Foundation Welcome – City of Sterling State Star in AgriScience Finalists Retiring Remarks – Tierney WilKeynote Speaker – Taylor McNeel, son, Executive Committee National FFA President Foundation, Meining-Davis, CVAState Star Farmer Finalists TA, and National FFA Conferring State FFA Degree Scholarships Stars Over Colorado Welcome – NJC President Jay Lee Closing Ceremony Convention Kickoff Speaker – Ryan Porter Introduction of State Officer CandiTheme: Intensify Your Voice dates Thursday, June 9, 8:30 to 10 a.m. Creed Speaking Results Co-Chairs: Bryce Funk and Tierney Retiring Remarks – Whitney Wilson Mount, Executive Committee Opening Ceremony Closing Ceremony Greetings Colorado FFA Alumni Retiring Remarks – Tia Rozell, Executive Committee Theme: Intensify Your Experience Extemporaneous Speaking Results Wednesday, June 8, 8:30 to 10 a.m. Prepared Public Speaking Results Co-Chairs: Nick Vollmer and Rachael Colorado State Fair Sweepstakes Latta Awards Opening Ceremony Dutch Carwin Memorial LeaderGreetings – Colorado Farm Bureau ship Award Retiring Remarks – Kalla Thieman, Retiring Remarks – Rachael Latta, Executive Committee Treasurer Recognition of State Proficiency Closing Ceremony Winners Heifer Wrangle Awards Retiring Remarks – Bryce Funk, Theme: Intensify Your Future Secretary Thursday, June 9, 1:30 to 4 p.m. Greetings – Colorado Young FarmCo-Chairs: 2015-16 Officer Team er’s Education Association Opening Ceremony Closing Ceremony Agriscience Fair Awards Retiring Remarks – Rayna Hodgson, Vice President Theme: Intensify Your Impact Quiz Bowl Awards Wednesday, June 8, 1 to 2 p.m. John Knaub Outstanding Teacher Co-Chairs: Rayna Hodgson and Award Whitney Mount Most Improved Chapter Opening Ceremony New Chapter Recognition Greetings – Rocky Mountain FarmNational Chapter Award Program ers Union Retiring Remarks – Emma Retiring Remarks – Nick Vollmer, Mortensen, President Sentinel Recognition of Decade Past State Recognition of State CDE Teams Officers Parliamentary Procedure Teams Nominating Committee Report Colorado FFA Year in Review New Officer Introductions Retiring Remarks – Megan ThorConvention in Review Slide Show modsgard, Reporter Recognition of Retiring Teachers Closing Ceremony Installation of New Officers State Officer Retirement Closing Ceremony Theme: Intensify Your Passion

Session 5

Session 2

Session 6

Session 3

Session 4

PRESENTERS Ryan Porter

dent in 2013-14 and president and treasurer of the Vilonia FFA Opening Session — 6:30 p.m., Chapter. In high school, she was Tuesday, June 7 active in 4-H, her church’s youth The CEO and co-founder of RaiseYourFlag.com, Ryan Porter group and nursing home minishas spent the past decade helping try, the Arkansas State Fair and the Red Cross. young people While in FFA McNeel’s superanswer the quesvised agricultural experiences tion, “What should I do with included breeding and showing goats and developing and facilitatmy life?” His ing leadership and agricultural book, “Make education workshops. She judged Your Own livestock for three years and comLunch: How to peted in public speaking for two Live an Epically Ryan years. She credits FFA for honing Porter Epic Life her skills and guiding her toward Through Work, Travel, Wonder, and (maybe)Col- a career in agriculture. Today, McNeel is an agriculturlege,” speaks to the topic of choosing a path after high school, al business major with a minor in Spanish at Southern Arkansas and he has spoken to over half a University. After her year in million students in his quest to office, she plans to study abroad make sure that students leave to continue her Spanish studies high school with epic experiencand aim for a career in lobbying es. for agriculture trade associations When he’s not on stage speakor working on policy for elected ing or running his company, he’s officials. with his wife in Japan eating “I am excited this year to learn strange food and sleeping on the about the different types of agritrain. culture across the country. This Taylor McNeel, National year will provide an opportunity to talk with FFA members, conFFA President sumers, and the public about Session 4 — 7:30 p.m., Wednesday, FFA, agriculture education, and June 8 agriculture.” Growing up on a farm coupled with her years in FFA instilled a The Magic of Michael C. passion for agri- DeSchalit culture in Taylor 10 p.m., Wednesday, June 8 McNeel, but it Michael C. DeSchalit is an was her 11th award-winning grade year in comedy magihigh school that cian, hypnotist set her on her and motivationfuture path in al speaker who Taylor agricultural polihas performed McNeel cy. for thousands of “I was asked to corporations, speak at a hearing concerning the Michael C. organizations DeSchalit closing of the county’s Farm Serand schools vice Agency on behalf of the 800- over the past 20-plus years. plus FFA and 4-H members in the He has a quick wit and builds county,” she said. “This hearing instant rapport with his audience. exposed me to the government His magic show incorporates just and policy aspect of agriculture the right amount of comedy to and I became hooked.” keep his audiences amazed and McNeel was elected to the laughing at the same time. His 2015-16 National FFA Officer highly visual “tricks” include team as president at the 88th effects like making a bowling ball National FFA Convention & appear from a blank drawing pad, Expo. and rapping a funny song while Originally from Vilonia, Ark., doing an entertaining card trick McNeel was Arkansas FFA presi- that will keep you guessing. STATE FFA CONVENTION • JUNE 7, 2016 • 13

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14 • JUNE 7, 2016 • STATE FFA CONVENTION

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CHAPTER UPDATE

Lots to do for members in blue By Jenni Grubbs Times Staff Writer

Fort Morgan High School’s ag students have had a busy year in FFA. Between community fundraisers and service projects, agricultural learning experiences, leadership development events and FFA competitions, the 89 FFA members — and their blue jackets — were a frequent sight at the school and in the community. “All of the kids that are in ag are in FFA,” said Greg Ditter, FMHS ag department head. “FFA is the leadership component of the ag program. Students go to competitions and learn basic citizenship skills.” Kaitlyn Burkhart was the president of Fort Morgan FFA for the past year. “Agriculture is the foundation of the entire world,” she said. “I’m really trying to put a lot into FFA this year.” Burkhart and her fellow 2015-16 chapter officers — Vice President Jared Wilgenburg, Treasurer Jason Wiges, Secretary Monica Martha, Reporter Tyler Christensen, Ag II Rep. Brooke Logan and District Rep. Matthew Sharp — certainly did put a lot into FFA

Fort Morgan FFA / Courtesy photo

Fort Morgan FFA chapter members are shown at the District Leadership Conference on Dec. 2, 2015, at the Morgan County Fairgrounds.

in Fort Morgan this past American FFA year. Food was a fairly common Degree theme at many of the chapCandidate ter’s activities and events. Sabrina Reeder The Fort Morgan FFA State FFA Degree members hosted several Candidates community meals, as well as Kaitlyn Burkhart ones for themselves and Tayler Lopez their families. Courtney Schrum The following are some of Matthew Sharp the highlights of what the Ethan Staley chapter did and accomJason Wiges plished: Jared Wilgenburg In August, they participattating disease, and then they ed in the ALS Ice Bucket shucked and roasted corn Challenge to raise awareness for fighting that devas- and served food at the relat-

ed fundraising dinner at the Fort Morgan Elks Club. The members also held a FFA Back To School BBQ on Aug. 31 for chapter members and their families in the FMHS Commons. In September, the chapter members learned about fire safety from volunteer firefighters from Fort Morgan Fire Department, and they held a petting zoo and buggy rides at the annual Homecoming Carnival at Legion Field. The next month saw chapter members venture to

Walther Farms near Weldona to learn about potato farming, and then the chapter’s annual Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry and Hired Hand Auction was held Oct. 17. In late October, several chapter members travelled with ag teacher/FFA adviser Danica Farnik to Louisville, Ky., for the National FFA Convention. November brought a chance for the local chapter members to spend time See FORT MORGAN, pg. 16

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STATE FFA CONVENTION • JUNE 7, 2016 • 15

FORT MORGAN from page 15 with the Colorado State FFA officers, who visited Fort Morgan and participated in some activities. One of those activities was “popping our emotional balloons.” A few days later, the chapter members participated in the Aspire to Grow Conference in Fort Collins during the day, and then the Chapter Speaking Contest in the evening of Nov. 11. After the local speaking contest was over, it was determined that Devin Gerken and Donovan Moya would represent Fort Morgan FFA at the District Creed Contest, Kaitlyn Burkhart would compete in extemporaneous speaking, and Kelsi Schrum would compete in the prepared speaking contest. Savannah Icenhower, Farhiya Ali, Alex Ortega and Noah Clough also participated in the local Creed contests. Just days later, the Fort Morgan FFA held a fundraising Combine and Tractor Wash, with people able to bring their farm machinery to the FMHS Ag Shop for cleaning inside and out and getting “service inspected.” The next month brought the District Leadership Conference and its competitions and events to the Morgan County Fairgrounds. On Dec. 3, some of the chapter members rode on

place team in livestock; and second-place team in vet science. The chapter also did well in the District Milk Quality and Products contest, with Monica Martha as the high individual in the contest. It was transition time on April 27, though, as the chapter met and elected the new officers for the 2016-17 school year: President Mckenna VonFeldt, Vice PresiFort Morgan FFA / Courtesy photo dent Ryan Eggleston, TreaA parade of tractors travels down Riverside Avenue in front of Fort Morgan High School on surer Amber Storch, Feb. 24. 2016. The parade would work its way over to Main Street as part of celebrating Secretary Brooke Logan, National FFA Week. Reporter Devin Gerken, Sentinel Edith Salazar, Ag II Rep. Jordan Wilgenburg the float in the Fort Morgan February also saw several The next month brought Parade of Lights. That float meetings with “inquiry another community activity: and District Rep. Kelsi involved both a smoke learning” events, where a Bubble Soccer tournaShrum. machine and a laser show. chapter members explored ment hosted by Fort MorOn May 1, the chapter In mid-December, the “the power of air pressure” gan FFA and sponsored by members competed at the Fort Morgan FFA members and then got to make butter many community business- state-level Career Developheld a coat drive, donating and ice cream. es. The teachers ended up ment Events. The results all the donated jackets and Later in February, the betting the FFA in the included: Milk Products coats to those who needed Fort Morgan FFA members championship game of the bronze for Monica Martha them. went all out for celebrating tournament, which was held and silver for Kaitlyn BurAfter winter break, the National FFA Week. in the FMHS gym. khart; Ag Mechanics chapter was busy with They held Farm Olympics Another meal was held bronze for Cody Wright and Career Development Event on Monday, a Stick Horse March 28, with the chapter bronze for the team. practices, and the officers Gymkhana and a hypnotist offering a Steak and Bean The chapter’s annual banwent on a retreat on Jan. 11 show on Tuesday, dressed Dinner before the Greenquet was held May 7, and that included a stop at up in Official FFA Dress and hand Degree Ceremony. the members were honored Jump City. held a tractor parade on On April 6 and 7, chapter On Jan. 20, Fort Morgan Wednesday, hosted corn members competed in Dis- for all they did and accomplished over the year. FFA members headed up to Ping Pong on Thursday, trict Career Development On May 11, the chapter Denver and the National offered FMHS faculty Events at Northeastern held its last big meal of the Western Stock Show. breakfast on Friday for the Junior College in Sterling. Another trip up to the annual Nancy Temple Results included: first-place year: the Senior Send Off. Now, to really close out Front Range and further Memorial FFA Teacher team and high individual for the year, they next will take into the Rocky Mountains Breakfast and then held a Ryan Eggleston in ag on the State FFA Conferhappened in mid-February, pedal tractor race, and then mechanics; fourth-place with the chapter members the annual FFA Dance was team in floriculture; second- ence in Sterling and all it taking a ski trip. held Saturday night. place team in horse; fourth- has to offer.

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Students travel to Louisville By Tyler Christensen Fort Morgan FFA Chapter Reporter

The 88th National FFA convention in Louisville, Ky., in October 2015 was a huge success for the organization and our chapter. For the span of five days, Fort Morgan adviser Danica Farnick and five students travelled with the Weldon Valley chapter and adviser Cara Heid. FMHS student representatives were: seniors Kaitlyn Burkhart and Jason Wiges, along with sophomores Mckenna VonFeldt, Brooke Logan and myself. On the first day, most FFA chapters toured the city, including the Fort Morgan chapter. Day two found us at the

Louisville Slugger Museum. We learned a lot about the production of a Major League Baseball bats. A lunch cruise down the big Ohio followed. The day wouldn’t be worth anything without a taste of history at Churchill Downs, learning that the Kentucky Derby has been held and raced there since 1875. The day or trip would not be complete if we didn’t have a little fun. That evening, we attended the Jake Owen and Maddie and Tae Concert held exclusively for FFA members. Day three was getting down to business when we attended the second general session of nine. The theme for the convention was “Amplify, boost your impact.” Following the ses-

Danica Farnik / Courtesy photo

Fort Morgan FFA members pose for a picture by the Kentucky Derby statue at Churchill Downs in late October 2015.

sion, we attended two keynote speaker presentations. One was by the creator of Kid President Mr. Brad Montague, who told us to “be awesome” even when things don’t look good.

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Towards the end of the day, we attended a workshop called #myagstory. The workshop featured a marketing agent from Tyson Foods, Inc. He has the job to promote Tyson’s

ethical treatment of animals. The only way most of the public can hear information on this topic is through our educated younger generation, also known as ag students. This trip to the national convention allowed us to obtain numerous leadership skills that we can convey back to our chapter. This opportunity allowed us to be tourists, learn a lot about the Louisville area and meet ag students from all across the country. Sharing our stories and listening to the speakers provided us with insight into the similarities and challenges experienced in very different parts of the country. Back home the Fort Morgan FFA can build on the knowledge gained at the convention.

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970-867-2476 STATE FFA CONVENTION • JUNE 7, 2016 • 17

CHAPTER UPDATE

Another successful year for the Brush FFA Chapter By Shannon Bailey Brush FFA Adviser

The 2015-2016 school year was another successful year for the Brush FFA Chapter. The chapter is led by the Adviser Shannon Baylie, who teaches the agriculture education courses at Brush Middle School and High School. There are 51 members in the chapter and it is strongly supported by many Brush community members. The achievements started when former Brush FFA member Emma Mortensen was elected as the 2015-2016 State FFA President and Whitney Mount was elected as a State Executive Committee Member. To have two members from the same chapter elected to serve on the same team is an extremely rare occasion. They have spent the past year traveling the state advocating for the agriculture industry and putting on leadership workshops and speeches to FFA members across Colorado. October was an especially busy time for this chapter. It began with 31 members attending the statewide leadership conference Made For Excellence/Advanced Leadership Development held in Denver. Then, the chapter started a new community event and fundraiser and hosted a homecoming football tailgate dinner. About 250 community members were fed before

Courtesy photo

Brush Chapter members working at the first chapter homecoming tailgate dinner

State FFA Degree Candidates Sadee Davis Kaylee Osier

the Beet Diggers took on the Valley Vikings. The last week in October, 16 FFA members attended the National FFA Convention in Louisville, Ky., where they went on over eight tours and activities including underground zip-lining. At the District Career Development events held in April, the Livestock Judging Team, Agricultural Sales Team, Floriculture Team, and Meats Evaluation Teams all won the District 14 contests. In May, the Brush FFA Livestock Judging Team was named State Champions

18 • JUNE 7, 2016 • STATE FFA CONVENTION

Courtesy photo

Brush FFA's Champion Livestock Judging Team Braden Mortensen, Jordan Kendrick, Courtney Griffith and Jared Wacker

after competing at the state contest and will be representing Colorado at the national event in October. The team consists of

Courtney Griffith, Jordan Kendrick, Jared Wacker, and Braden Mortensen and Susan Kendrick helped to coach the team.

Another accomplishment to celebrate this year was Brush being named a Gold National Chapter within the National Chapter Award. “With this being my second year as the Brush Adviser, I became aware of how outstanding our members are and how much our chapter does to increase student, chapter, and community development. I wanted my kids and community to get recognized for the hours of time put into our FFA Chapter. It was our goal to be named in the Gold category at State Convention and we are excited to see the overall results at the State FFA Convention!” said Baylie. To end the thrilling year, Wade Hofmeister was named Chair of the Colorado State FFA Nominating Committee. He will be working with eight other members from across the state to interview the 24 state officer candidates and elect the 2016-2017 State FFA Officer Team. He will also be announcing the new officer team during the final session of the State Convention on June 9 at Northeaster Junior College. Over 30 Brush members will be attending the State Convention to increase their leadership abilities through workshops, activities, and sessions. They will also be there cheering on our two Brush FFA alumni and State Officers, Mortensen and Mount, as they host this year’s convention!

CHAPTER UPDATE

Haxtun FFA has busy year By Kylie Donovan Reporter for the Haxtun FFA chapter

Over the 2015-2016 school year, the Haxtun FFA Chapter, advised by Jeff Plumb, was extremely active and involved with a large number of various activities, including everything from State Career Development Events to Leadership Development Conferences, to even sending 11 members to the National FFA Convention and Expo. The 2015-2016 officer team was comprised of: Seth Thompson (President), Brittany Fetzer (Vice President), Kylie Donovan (Secretary), Elise Atkins (Treasurer), Brenna Shafer

(Reporter), Naydeen Knapp (Sentinel), Emily Atkins (Historian), and the Executive Committee consisted of DelRay Mayhew, Tate Knapp, and Mariah Jones. During the summer of 2015, the chapter participated in quite a few activities including Colorado State FFA Convention, Relay For Life, an organized Lake Trip for chapter members and an Officer Retreat trip. The Haxtun FFA Chapter also participated in various activities at the Phillips County Fair. At the beginning of the 2015-2016 school year, the chapter held a Kickoff Barbeque to get the year off on a positive note. At the barbeque, the officers expressed what their plans

en even more insight on what we do as an organization. At the DLC Conference, sophomores and interested upperclassmen attended in order to Seth Thompson Wyatt Workman improve themselves and their chapter. In late October, the Haxand expectations were for tun FFA Chapter sent 11 the year, played multiple members who were selectgames, and explained to ed by the chapter’s advisory new members what FFA is about as well as the opportu- committee to the FFA nities offered through FFA. National Convention in LouLater on into the year, the isville, Ky. While on the trip, the group went on multiple Haxtun FFA chapter sent tours, including visiting members to both the BIG (Being Involved as a Green- Churchill Downs, the Louisville Slugger Factory, and hand) Conference and the the Kentucky Horse Park. DLC (District Leadership The time spent at national Conference). The entire convention also consisted of freshman FFA cohort members attending sesattended the BIG Confersions, as well as time and ence, where they were giv-

State FFA Degree Candidates

opportunities to network and speak with other FFA members around the country who share similar interests. During the spring of 2016, our chapter sent four teams to the district Career Development Event to compete in Meat Judging, Farm Business Management, Ag Mechanics and Livestock Judging. The Meat Judging Team, consisting of DelRay Mayhew, Kyle Boerner, Edward Seybels, and Elijah Molde, received first place at the district level. Although they did very well at the state competition they did not place. The Farm Business ManSee HAXTUN, pg. 20

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STATE FFA CONVENTION • JUNE 7, 2016 • 19

Fleming has active FFA chapter By Callie Jones Journal-Advocate staff writer

The Fleming FFA Chapter has 34 members that have all been actively participating in projects and events this year. A few of the chapter’s activities this year include traveling to the Dinklage Feedlot and covering the silage pit, selling peaches at the courthouse in Sterling, attending the farmers market at the courthouse in Sterling, attending the National Western Stock Show, attending the BIG (Being Involved as Greenhand) Conference and the District Leadership Conference and being present at various state and national events.

In February, chapter members competed in the district speaking contest and in March, they hosted their annual oyster fry and member auction. According to Jessica Sigmon, chapter reporter, throughout the year the chapter has learned about speaking skills, leadership and community involvement. They’ve also spent class time getting to know more about greenhouse, animal science, plumbing, welding, and agricultural life. The chapter is planning to take at least 15 students to the State FFA Convention. They are looking forward to profiJournal-Advocate file photo ciency awards, state degrees and seeing other agricultural programs Fleming High School FFA chapter members are pictured at the District Leadership Conference held at Northeastern Junior College in December 2015. interacting with their community.

HAXTUN from page 19

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20 • JUNE 7, 2016 • STATE FFA CONVENTION

agement Team consisting of Brittany Fetzer and Elise Atkins also competed at state but with only two scorers the team was unable to place. However, Elise Atkins placed Silver individually. In the Ag Mechanics contest, the team consisting of Preston Salvador, Aaron Michael, and Mason Edwards, placed third at the district level and in the Bronze Category at the state CDE level. As individuals, Mason Edwards earned Silver and Preston Salvador earned Bronze. The Livestock Judging Team, made up of Katie Gibson, Kylie Donovan, Tyler Tempel, and Elijah Meakins, also earned Bronze at the Colorado State CDEs competition. Plus, Katie Gibson won individual Gold and Kylie Donovan earned individual Silver. The Haxtun FFA Chapter was also involved in various speaking contests. In the chapter Creed Speaking Contest Riley Thompson was awarded high individual and Claire Swan was the Runner-Up. Both ladies attended the District Speaking Contest where they placed in the Silver Category. Brittany Fetzer competed in extemporaneous speaking at the district level where she earned Bronze. The chapter’s last speaking contest was the chapter Quiz Bowl Team con-

sisting of McKenna Andersen, Dawson Knode, and Riley Thompson. They did extremely well. On May 5, 2016, the Haxtun FFA Chapter held its annual banquet. During the banquet the lettering awards and degrees were presented. Dawson Knode was selected as the recipient to the Star Greenhand award and Kylie Donovan was the recipient for the Star Chapter award. The banquet also served as an opportunity for the chapter to reflect on everything the chapter did over the course of the 2015-2016 school year. Plus, it included the installation of the 2016-2017 Haxtun FFA officers: Brittany Fetzer (President), DelRay Mayhew (Vice President), Naydeen Knapp (Secretary), Emily Atkins (Treasurer), Kylie Donovan (Reporter), Elijah Molde (Sentinel), Katie Gibson (Historian) and Hailey Mavis, Kyle Boerner, and Aaron Michael serving as the Executive Committee. The Haxtun FFA Chapter is excited to attend this year’s State Convention. Although the chapter will have nobody competing this year, we will have members receiving Proficiency Awards as well as State Degrees. Chapter members are excited to attend the conference and gain leadership skills and learn more about the state level of FFA!

CHAPTER UPDATE

Merino FFA has 7 competing at state By Kristi Cook Merino FFA chapter president

Over the past year the Merino FFA Chapter has been very competitive in Career Development Events (CDEs), as well as having members excel in their Supervised Agriculture Experiences (SAEs), and we are also thankful for the strong support of the community throughout the year. At the 2015 State FFA Convention in Pueblo, our Parliamentary Procedure team, which consisted of Nick Vollmer, Gus Gill, Connor Fiscus, Ace Conger, Colin Mertens, and Kristi Cook, was very successful. The team pushed through some obstacles, such as having a member become ill during one of our presentations and having a member need to fill a position on the team at last minute’s notice, to prevail and take the state champion place, which qualified them to compete at the National FFA Convention in Louisville, Ky. Our member Nick Vollmer, as was also very successful at convention, with his accomplishments of winning State Star Farmer and being elected onto the 2015-2016 State Officer Team serving as the sentinel. At the 2015 National FFA Convention in Louisville, Ky., in late October, our Parliamentary Procedure team held their own against the national competitors and ended up becoming a silver placing team. Although we were sad not to be pulled from our pool to move on with competition, we found ease with the knowledge that the two teams that were pulled from our group went on to place first and third in the nation. Our team member Gus Gill also tied as the nation’s top secretary in our CDE. Throughout the year we have had tremendous amount of support from our surrounding communities and were able to host a successful oyster fry and find success in our fruit sales. On May 1 and 2, 2016, we competed at Colorado State University in our State CDE events. We had a silver Farm Business Management

Courtesy photo

Merino FFA 2015-16 Chapter Officer Team. Front left; Kristi Cook, vice president; Rose Grauberger, reporter; Molly Weatherill, secretary; Baylee Nelson, exeutive committee, back row, from left; Will Mertens, treasurer; Quinn Tappy, president; Wyatt Barton, executive committee; Ace Conger, sentinel; Colin Mertens, executive committee.

American FFA Degree Candidates Josi Dreher Augustus Gill

State FFA Degree Candidates Veronica Karg Micaela Ladd Yael Martinez William Mertens Baylee Nelson

Team, a silver horse team and a Bronze ag mechanics team. We are very excited to have our District XVI winners in Parliamentary Procedure and Prepared Public Speaking competing at the 2016 State Convention this year. Our Parliamentry Procedure team consisting of Zach Karg, Wyatt Barton, Jalen Jole, Larissa Fritzler, Harley Gentry, Cydnee Sexton and Kristi Cook will be competing in Prepared Public Speaking. We are wishing them the best of luck in their competitions and are looking forward to another successful year!

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CHAPTER UPDATE

Wiggins enters two teams

By Caden Callaway

State FFA Degree Candidates

Wiggins FFA reporter

Blake Ferris Shane Finegan Kassidy Harris Shayla Lehr Omar Roman Tucker Teague Jessica Veerman

The State FFA convention will be held in Sterling this year on June 7-9. The Wiggins chapter will be competing in Quiz Bowl and Parliamentar y Procedure. Quiz Bowl team members include Jagger Dinis, Tanna Hansen, Caden Callaway and Lakota Harris.

year of teaching. He has been nominated for the John Knaub Outstanding Ag Teacher award.

These Ag 1 students will compete in a contest of general agriculture knowledge against other chapters around the state. The parliamentar y procedure team consists of Jessica Veeman, Shane Finegan, Jacob McFadden, Blake Ferris, Reid Ernst and Roxanne Bashor. This team will work together to run a meeting efficiently and demonstrate their knowledge of Robert’s Rules of Order.

Caden Callaway / Courtesy Photo

The Wiggins FFA Parli-Pro team Jessica Veeman, Shane Finegan, Jacob McFadden, Blake Ferris, Reid Ernst and Roxanne Bashor. The Wiggins FFA Quiz Bowl team. Jagger Dinis, Tanna Hansen and Rockie Ernst.

There will be seven State Degree recipients and four Proficiency Award recipients, including three state winners who will be advancing to the national level. The Wiggins chapter will also be named a gold chapter. As a chapter, we were in the top 10 in the state and we will be advancing to nationals.

Caden Callaway / Courtesy Photo

The Wiggins FFA has 38 members and is led by Rockie Ernst, who is about to conclude his 31st

Proud to Support Local FFA Chapters.

Two Wiggins students earned National FFA scholarships this year. Blake Ferris won the Archer Daniels Midland Company Scholarship, and Tucker Teague won the National FFA Combined Scholarship. Ferris is also a state Star Finalist in agriculture placement. Roxanne Bashor, Rachel Columbia, Bailey Eklund and Charlee Teague are state agronomy team winners who will be advancing to the national level. Other scholarships for Wiggins students include: the Washington Leadership Conference Scholarship, awarded to Shane Finegan and Connor Kaufman; and the Colorado FFA Foundation Murdoch’s Scholarship and the CVATA Son/Daughter Scholarship, both awarded to Reid Ernst.

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New Raymer making a positive difference By Callie Jones Journal-Advocate staff writer

The New Raymer FFA Chapter makes a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success, according to the chapter’s page on the school website. Ser ving as the chapter’s 201516 officers are: Maddy Holzworth, president; Shayla Honebien, vice president; Ally Funk, secretar y; Emily Kaiser, treasurer; Maddie Pollart, reporter; and Garrett Seltzer, sentinel. Over the past year the chapter has been involved in several activities. In July, members participated in the 66th annual Northeast

Weld County Fair and Rodeo. To kick off the school year, in September the chapter hosted a Childhood Cancer Awareness Walk, with profits donated to Children’s Hospital for childhood cancer research. The event included a toy drive for patients at Children’s hospital, as well as a T-shirt sale. Also, along with attending FFA conferences, the chapter hosted its annual oyster fr y and auction in November. One of the chapter’s members, Br yce Funk, who is ser ving as state FFA secretar y, will be helping to put on this year’s State FFA Convention. He will also receive the American FFA Degree at the convention and another member, Ally Funk, will received the State FFA Degree.

Courtesy Photo

New Raymer FFA chapter members and their adviser, Kevin Schlabach, pose for a picture for the group's Facebook page.

American FFA Degree Candidate Bryce Funk

State FFA Degree Candidate Ally Funk

WE SALUTE THE LOCAL FFA CHAPTERS.

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STATE FFA CONVENTION • JUNE 7, 2016 • 23

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