April 2011, FFA New Horizons

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Zook quadruplets make FFA history

11Fun Facts about U.S. Money

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On the CoverPrimmer, John, Malena and Lucia Zook of Flora, Ind. Photo By Jeff Adkins

new horizonsFFAThe magazine of the National FFA Organization

Volume 58 Number 4

®

6

12 cover story

All-American QuadsZook quadruplets make history by simultaneously earning American FFA Degrees

A History of Agricultural HeritageSince 1928, FFA evolves to meet industry needs

2 11 18

KimNewsomHoLmBeRG editor jessyyaNcey associateeditor juLiewoodaRd FFaPublicationsmanager KRistymeyeR FFacommunications RaVeNPetty Proofreadingmanager jessicamoZo contributingwriter cHRistiNacaRdeN mediatechnologydirector jaNiNemaRyLaNd,KRisseXtoN, seniorGraphicdesigners ViKKiwiLLiamscHaNdRaBRadsHaw,LaNcecoNZett, mediatechnologyanalysts micHeLeNiccoRe,maRcussNydeR jeFFReys.otto Photographydirector jeFFadKiNs,BRiaNmccoRd seniorPhotographers toddBeNNett,aNtoNyBosHieR staffPhotographers yaNceyBoNd informationtechnologydirector RicHaRdsteVeNs webdesigner aLisoNHuNteR colorimagingtechnician toRiHuGHes integratedmediamanager cHRisdudLey controller ciNdyHaLL salessupportmanager KRistyduNcaN executivesecretary KatiemiddeNdoRF adProductionmanagerKRystiNLemmoN,PatRiciamoisaN adtrafficassistantsdiaNaGuZmaN,maRiamcFaRLaNd, accounting sHeLLymiLLeR,LisaoweNs GaRysmitH distributiondirector KeitHHaRRis marketingcreativedirector RayLaNGeN executiveVicePresident toddPotteR,caRLatHuRmaN sr.V.P./sales caseyHesteR sr.V.P./operations teReecaRutHeRs V.P./externalcommunications maRKFoResteR V.P./Visualcontent NatasHaLoReNs V.P./contentoperations

Foradvertisinginformation,contacttoriHughes,(800)333-8842,ext.281,[email protected].

2010-2011 National FFA Officers RiLeyPaGett,oK President LaNdaNscHaFFeRt,co secretary tiFFaNyRoGeRs,mi easternRegionVicePresident wyattdejoNG,sd centralRegionVicePresident jamesFLatt,tN southernRegionVicePresident sHaNNoNNoRRis,Nm westernRegionVicePresident

National FFA Staff steVeBRowN interimNationalFFaadvisor cHaRLesBRowNe interimexecutivesecretary dwiGHtaRmstRoNG chiefexecutiveofficer maRioNFLetcHeR Nationaltreasurer maRKcaVeLL,RoBcooPeR, divisiondirectors

daLecRaBtRee,BiLLFLeet,jaNetmaLoNey,KeNtscHescKe,VicKisettLe,LeeaNNesHiLLeR, toNysmaLL,BiLLstaGG, wiLLwaideLicH

National FFA Board of Directors – Members steVeBRowN chair,usde,Va cHaRLesBRowNe secretary,usde,Va maRioNFLetcHeR treasurer,statesupervisor,aR jimBaRBee statesupervisor,NV RoBeRtB.caLViN agricultureteacher/usde,mo wiLBuRcHaNceLLoR statesupervisor,ms KeitHcoX FFaexecutivesecretary/usde,sc joeLLaRseN statesupervisor,mN cuRtLucas statesupervisor,Ky BRiaNe.myeRs associateProfessor/usde,FL joHNRaKestRaw BusinessRepresentative/usde,co

Subscription Information:FFA New Horizons(issN1069-806X)ispublishedFeb.,april,june,aug.,oct.anddec.bytheNationalFFaorganization,6060FFadrive,indianapolis,iN46268-0960. Publisher assumes no responsibility for return ofunsolicited manuscripts, art or any other unsolicited materials. Forsubscription information contact: FFA New Horizons subscriptionservices, (317) 802-4235 or e-mail [email protected]. Periodicalpostagerateispaidatindianapolis,ind.,andadditionalmailoffices.

Postmaster: Please send address changes to FFA New Horizons,P.o.Box68960,indianapolis,iN46268-0960.

copyright©2011bytheNationalFFaorganizationandjournalcommunicationsinc.

the National FFa organization is dedicated to making a positivedifference in the lives of students by developing their potential forpremier leadership, personal growth and career success throughagriculturaleducation.

Please recycle this magazine

2 ScrapbookRead news, jokes and more.

4 FFA FacesLearn about members’ achievements.

10 National Officer Q & AMeet National Secretary Landan Schaffert.

11 Cool CareersConsider five dog-friendly jobs.

18 Your MoneyImpress your friends with interesting money facts.

20 Back TalkMeet a Wisconsin alumna who advocates for agriculture.

1FFA New HOrizONsFFANATiON.FFA.Org

April 2011 Contents


SAEs on DisplayCan you imagine joining together

with students from eight other schools to form your FFA chapter?

Members in the Granite Mountain FFA Chapter in Utah know all about it. This chapter boasts more than 250 members, made up of nine high schools and several junior highs across the Salt Lake Valley.

Most FFA members live in the city, so they keep their supervised agricultural experience programs (SAEs) of goats, cattle, sheep, swine and poultry at Wheeler Historical Farm and Taylorsville Heritage Farms. By maintaining their SAEs at public farms, the members learn to educate visitors about FFA and agriculture. Learn more about the

chapter at www.gmffa.blogspot.com.

Why is the letter A like a flower?A bee (B) comes after it!

Why is everyone so tired on April 1?Because they’ve just finished a long 31-day March!

What flowers grow on faces?Tulips (Two-lips)!

Just Joking

The Ribbon QuiltWhen Marti Lance from Rittman, Ohio,

heard about a ranching accident that

took the life of 9-year-old Rowdy Hayes

Smallwood, she wanted to do something

to help. A longtime quilter, she knew a

wall hanging would be an appropriate

tribute to the little cowboy from Wyoming,

but wanted to connect it to his love for

showing horses and goats. She called

out to FFA and 4-H members through

Facebook, who sent hundreds of

ribbons from livestock fairs

that she then used to make

a wall hanging for Rowdy’s

parents. Learn more at

www.lancequilts.com.

2 FFA New HOrizONs FFANATiON.FFA.Org

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The Los Lunas FFA Chapter from New Mexico hosted its second annual corn maze on the school’s 11-acre farm last fall. More than 300 people, including two elementary school groups, came to the event, finding their way through the one-acre maze.

The Axe FactorThe Wamogo High School FFA Chapter in Connecticut

recently started what is believed to be the first-ever FFA

Lumberjack Team. Before the invention of chain saws,

feller bunchers and other modern logging equipment,

lumberjacks were men who harvested and transported

trees for processing into lumber and other forest products.

Competitions held across the country acknowledge the

rich history of forestry and logging and keep agricultural

traditions alive. The Wamogo FFA team participated in their

first competitions this past fall at two local fairs in Goshen

and Bethlehem, Conn. Events included the axe throw, two-

person crosscut saw and log roll. The members plan to add

the Jack and Jill crosscut and the bow saw in future years.

Team members are Patrick Lucas, Hunter Garlasco,

Erik Bagley, Matt Squires, Devin Savoy and Kimi Sekorski.



MN

OK

MS MD

CA

this high school senior serves as first vice president for her

FFachapter.albaisalsoinvolvedinthecotton,milk-qualityand

tree-pruningFFateamsandservesinaleadershiproleforeach

of those. after graduating, she plans to attend college and

becomeanagricultureteacherandFFaadvisor.

Alba MarquezChapter: Firebaugh FFA

maddie,ahighschoolsophomore,hasparticipated in thebest-

informedGreenhandandritualscompetitionswithinwashington

FFa and raised swine for her sae. she is also involved in

trapshooting and hopes to participate in agricultural sales,

agriculturalissuesandmeatsjudging.athome,maddiehelpsin

herfamily’swineryandenjoyshorsebackriding.

Maddie KramerChapter: Stanwood FFA

Nicole,ahighschoolseniorandchapterofficerforthreeyears,

works to encourage more students to join FFa and encourage

currentmemberstobecomemoreactive.shehasbeenamember

of state-winning dairy judging and dairy foods teams and has

enjoyed raising and showing Brown swiss dairy cattle as her

supervisedagriculturalexperienceprogram(sae).

Nicole HoodChapter: Middletown FFA

torey, a high school sophomore, is currently serving as FFa

chapter reporter and raises poultry for his sae. Last year, he

helped his all-freshman agricultural issues team win second in

the state career development event, and he placed third

individuallyinthefishandwildlifecdethesameyear.toreyhopes

tobecomeaconservationofficeroneday.

Torey BelichChapter: Grand rapids FFA

thishighschoolseniorcurrentlyservesashischapter’spresident

andshowssteersandlambsforhissae.oneofdakota’sproudest

FFamomentswasmakingthesaleattheoklahomayouthexpo.

Healsoplaysbaseballandbasketballforhisschoolandisactive

onthestudentcouncil.afterhighschool,dakotaplanstomajor

inanimalscienceatoklahomastateuniversity.

Dakota QuickleChapter: Chattanooga FFA

alexiscurrentlyservesasherchapter’svicepresident.in2009-

2010,sheservedasstudentadvisor,andduringherFFaexperience

hasbeen involvedwithFFacreedspeaking, tool identification,

envirothonandtheFFalegislativebreakfast.ahighschoolsenior,

alexis isenjoyingher lastyearofFFa involvementand looking

forwardtostartingthenextchapterofherlife.

Alexis smithChapter: North Pike FFA

WA

Win a Pair of Wrangler Jeanswrangler,thesponsorofFFaFaces,willawardapairofjeanstofeaturedmembers.

NominateyourselftobeconsideredforFFaFacesbyfollowingthestepsbelow.

Questions? E-mail [email protected].

Goonline describe uploadVisit www.ffafaces.com and

click on Nominations. You can nominate yourself or another

current FFA member.

Fill out the form to tell us about you – your FFA involvement, school

activities, future plans and more.

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

nomination form.


FFA Faces


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Since 1928, FFA evOlveS to meet industry needs

HeritageA History of AgriculturalStory by Kim Newsom Holmberg

I believe in the future

of agriculture…”

Every Greenhand FFA

member learns that phrase, also known

as the opening line of the FFA Creed.

FFA members prior to 1990

recited a slightly different version,

“I believe in the future of farming.”

Sure, many FFA members know

that the FFA Creed was revised

in 1990 to reflect changes in the

industry, and you might also

know that the organization’s name

changed in 1988 from Future Farmers

of America to the National FFA

Organization for the same reason.

But, have you ever stopped to

think about the reasons behind

those changes? What were the

developments in the industry

of agriculture that led to a

rebranding of the FFA organization?

“In the 1920s, agriculture was

basically family farms, and the

products grown and livestock raised

were in support of that family on the

farm and perhaps local community,”

explains Cheryl Salley, manager of

community relations and sponsored

programs for John Deere, one of the

first corporate supporters of FFA.

Bernie Staller, chief operating

officer for the National FFA

Organization from 1991 to 2004,

says that FFA works to respond to

changes in the industry, and has,

since its beginning in 1928.

“The FFA organization tries

to respond to the changes in the

marketplace and what the people

Future Farmers of America was founded to help young farm boys learn the skills necessary to become a successful farmer. The organization held competitions like this corn-growing contest in the late 1920s.

“



in the industry tell us,” he explains.

“So you have to ask, what is the

marketplace for graduating FFA

members? And it can change over

the course of time.”

In the late 1920s, farmers made

up 21 percent of the U.S. labor force,

so preparing young men for careers

as farmers was a priority for the

new organization. Compare that to

today, when farmers comprise less

than 2 percent of the U.S. population.

1920s-1930s: FArM-FOCUSED

“In the 1920s, FFA projects (now

called supervised agricultural

experience programs or SAEs) were

intended to jump-start FFA members’

careers as farmers,” Staller says.

“With guidance from their

agriculture teachers, members who

raised 10 acres of corn as their FFA

project were developing the farm and

business skills they would need to be

full-time farmers after graduation.”

1940s: FFA GAiNS SUPPOrTErS

In the first 20 years of

Future Farmers of America,

the organization became highly

respected by those in the farming

industry. A group of agricultural

companies, including Firestone Tire

and Rubber, General Electric, Deere

and Company, General Mills Inc.,

and International Harvester,

became the organization’s first

official sponsors when the National

FFA Foundation was formed in 1944.

Their goal was to create an

awards program to recognize FFA

members for their achievements.

In 1945-46, American Farmer degree

recipients received $25 each, and

other monetary awards were given

for public speaking contests, for

state star farmers, and for farm

mechanics and farm and home

electrification competitions.

Salley says that while there are

no specific records as to why John

Deere chose to sponsor FFA, she

presumes that their reasoning was

because of the agricultural education

programs FFA provided students.

“One of Deere’s oldest and largest

corporate sponsorships is the farm

business management career

development event,” Salley says.

“Senior management of Deere worked

side by side with FFA representatives

in designing and implementing the

contest. The contest emphasizes

the importance of sound financial

management – something students

can use their entire lives both

personally and professionally.”

Also in the 1940s, the National

FFA Officers went on their first

Goodwill Tour, visiting businesses and

industrial firms across the country.

Agricultural business leaders

wanted their employees to meet

the student leaders and become

acquainted with the organization.

These businesses began to see FFA

members as future employees and

leaders of the industry of agriculture.

1950s: BiOTECH BirTH

“The science revolution –

herbicides, insecticides, etc. – in the

late 1950s and 1960s caused a need

for more science-based learning in

our agricultural education classes,”

Staller says. “Agriscience and

biotechnology came along – so

there were options available for

Future Farmers of America convention attendees in the 1950s were treated to dairy products at the FFA Milk Bar. The national FFA convention was held in Kansas City, Mo., from 1928 to 1998.



FFA members other than just farming.

He adds, “By encouragement

from industry leaders, FFA needed

to get out in front of agriculture’s

needs for business professionals,

not just those with specific farm

skills. This was so that there

would be graduates available,

with particular skill sets, when the

industry was set to hire them. The

green revolution – turfgrass, golf

courses, sports turf, landscaping,

etc. – came a few years later and

also drove changes in FFA awards.”

1960s: FirST CArEEr SHOW

With more opportunities

in agriculture, FFA members

began considering careers

in agribusiness, horticulture,

biotechnology and more. So in 1966,

the first “Careers in Agriculture”

exhibits were on display for

national FFA convention attendees.

The exhibits were so popular

that they have become a mainstay

in all FFA conventions since then,

growing larger and larger each year.

These exhibits have become what

is now known as the National

FFA Agricultural Career Show.

Also in the late 1960s, the

FFA Foundation created the Star in

Agribusiness Award, to recognize

the growing number of students

studying agribusiness.

1970s: AWArDS ABOUND

By the end of the 1960s, the FFA

program included 13 proficiency

award programs, but the

organization realized that the 13

areas no longer adequately covered

the interests and SAE programs

of its members. Consultants

representing teachers, agricultural

businesses and related associations

were called to Washington, D.C., to

make their recommendations for

improving the program. As a result,

new awards were added, designed to

be more compatible with classroom

instruction and offer more

opportunities to students interested

in careers in agribusiness.

Also in the 1970s, the FFA

Foundation worked diligently

to bring in new agricultural

supporters that represented the

organization’s additional awards

categories. Agricultural businesses

were also invited to have booths in

the career show during the national

FFA convention.

1988: THE NAME CHANGE

Staller says that by the late

1970s and early 1980s, the common

definition of “farmer” didn’t

encompass the entire industry of

agriculture, and hadn’t for many

years. Agricultural companies were

already looking to FFA members

as potential employees, so the

organization knew a name

change was necessary.

“The name change in 1988

allowed for maximum flexibility,”

Staller explains. “The states and local

chapters could continue to go by

‘Future Farmers of America’ if they

wished. Our goal was not to change

the rural chapters, but rather to help

the urban and suburban programs

better fit within the organization.

We added more options for those

who really needed it.”

Staller adds that, at the

time, many “nontraditional”

FFA programs had a difficult time

recruiting members, because they

perceived the program would teach

them to be farmers, which was not

the case. Even with the name change

and added opportunities for

members, Staller says that the

organization remained rooted

to agriculture at its core.

“It’s tough for me to think of

anything that was taken away,”

Staller says, thinking of the original

FFA programs and contests from

the organization’s beginnings.

“If anything, they’ve expanded.”

He adds, “Actually, I believe

there was a contest for working with

draft horses back in the 1930s, but as

you can probably imagine, the need

for that event ended rather quickly.”

While farming practices have evolved since the organization’s beginnings in 1928, agriculture remains at its core. This 1986 American Star in Agribusiness performed his daily farm chores a bit differently than the members of the 1920s and 1930s.



1990s-NOW: BrEAKiNG rECOrDS

After the organization’s

rebranding in the late 1980s,

membership began to rise, pointing

to the decision as being a positive

one for the future of FFA. The Agri-

Entrepreneurship Awards were

created in 1997, and in 2001, the first

Stars in Agricultural Placement and

Agriscience were recognized.

More leadership opportunities

have become available, and

classroom curriculum has been

revised to include more areas such as

horticulture programs, education on

urban agriculture, and biotechology

instruction. Still more opportunities

will be made available in the coming

years, based on the changes in the

industry of agriculture.

AGriCULTUrE AT THE COrE

“Although both FFA and

John Deere have diversified

and expanded their interests,

agriculture remains the foundation

we both stand on,” Salley says.

Staller agrees, adding that

the willingness to remain current

with the changing industry has

contributed to its membership

growth over the past 80-plus years.

“FFA has been the most

responsive youth organization out

there when it comes to preparing for

and meeting its industry’s needs,”

Staller says. “The organization,

many times, has had to ask itself

this: Are we going to just respond

to needs or will we get ahead of the

game and be prepared to meet

the challenges as they arise?”

FFA members compete in the national poultry judging career development event (CDE) in 1999. Over the years, new FFA CDEs have been added to offer members opportunities to learn about the different fields of agriculture.




FFA National Officer Q & A

Growing up on a farm in rural Otis, Colo.,

Landan Schaffert had a love for agriculture

very early in life. Landan has been actively

involved in helping his parents run their

Angus cattle farm, so his beef production

supervised agricultural experience program

(SAE) was a natural fit. While in FFA, Landan

has also participated in the FFA Creed, Public

Speaking and Extemporaneous Speaking

career development events.

Q How did you overcome stage fright

in FFA public speaking events?

A Presenting the FFA Creed in front of

a small crowd as a freshman was a

bit frightening, but as I continued to

participate in speaking events, I became

more confident, skilled and comfortable

speaking in front of larger and larger

audiences. With lots of practice and

a willingness to grow, I eventually

overcame stage fright and now greatly

enjoy public speaking.

Q Why has FFA been such a big part

of your life so far?

A FFA is an enormous part of my life,

because it provides me with the

opportunity to develop leadership

skills while building friendships with other

members. As well, FFA has enabled me to

benefit from the knowledge and skills I have

gained in the classroom and through my

supervised agricultural experience program

(SAE) by allowing me to put them to use in

CDEs and proficiencies.

Q A phrase used a lot about the National

FFA Officers is “servant leadership.”

How do you define servant leadership?

A To me, servant leadership is best

described as humbly serving others.

Servant leaders are those who possess

an authentic desire to positively impact the

lives of others. Leaders with a true servant

heart do not seek recognition for performing

good deeds of service.

Q This issue focuses a lot on FFA history.

What moment in FFA’s history do you

think has made the biggest impact on the

organization and why?

A I believe that opening FFA membership

to women in 1969 was the moment

that made the biggest impact on

the organization, because women deserve

the same right as men to participate in FFA.

Furthermore, women have made extremely

significant contributions that have

helped advance the organization and

increase membership.

SchaffertNational FFA Secretary

LandanFYilANDAN’S FAvOrITeSthiscoloradonativesaysheenjoysalltypesofmusicandhiscerealofchoiceisFruitLoops.LearnmoreaboutLandan’sfavorites.

Food:cheeseburgersandfrenchfriesSinger:GarthBrooksSeason:summerFFA memory:attendingmyfirstnationalFFaconventioninLouisvilleasafreshmaninhighschoolvacation spot: theRockymountainsCandy:Hershey’smilkchocolateBarsWebsite:youtubeSchool subject: mathFruit:apples


DogsGone to the

Five featured CAreerS where you can work with dogs

You’ve probably heard the

saying “Find a job you love,

and you’ll never work a day

in your life.” If you’re a dog-lover,

your dream job might be working

with canines.

Lots of careers include

hands-on involvement with man’s

best friend, but keep in mind there

are risks such as being bitten or

scratched and dealing with

aggressive and fearful animals.

Check out these five careers

that involve working with dogs:

DOG BEHAViOriSTS/TrAiNErS

The goal of behaviorists and

trainers is usually to help pet owners

get rid of unwanted behavior. With a

lot of patience, they help transform

unruly dogs into calm, controllable

companions. Trainers can take

classes to receive certification

as a professional trainer.

With dedication and some luck,

this field can lead to training dogs

for film, television and commercials.

Trainers to “canine stars” usually

study animal health, and their jobs

entail preparing animals for what is

required to star in a film. They need

the ability to read animals to ensure

a dog is right for a project.

DOG GrOOMErS

Dog groomers enjoy the

satisfaction of turning a shaggy,

possibly smelly dog into a clean,

perfectly groomed pet in just

a couple of hours. They build

relationships with their clients

(both the dogs and their owners)

and can often be self-employed

out of their homes.

Dog groomers can even be

mobile, operating their business out

of a van that visits clients’ homes.

They spend lots of hands-on time

with pets – a typical appointment

might include bathing, drying,

brushing and cutting hair. More

detailed appointments might include

polishing a pup’s nails or dyeing

its hair.

They can receive professional

training at schools such as the

licensed and accredited New York

School of Dog Grooming.

DOG BrEEDErS

Though it sounds simple, dog

breeding involves more than letting

purebred dogs have puppies and

selling them. Breeders also have to

be vigilant about maintaining breed

standards and keeping dogs healthy.

It is a good idea to start a career

in breeding as a hobby and network

with experienced, reputable breeders.

Breeding takes a serious investment

of time and money, and many

breeders do it as a second job

because the profit margins can be slim.

KENNEL WOrKErS

A great way to begin a career

working with dogs is by working at

a kennel or doggie daycare center.

You can usually be hired with no

previous experience and receive

training onsite.

The job might involve

supervising playtime for dogs

staying for the day or feeding and

cleaning up after dogs boarding

for several days. Although it is a

messy job, often with minimal pay,

dedicated workers can eventually

manage or own their own boarding

kennel or doggie daycare.

VETEriNAriAN

Perhaps the most gratifying

dog-related career is working to

help sick pets feel better. But

veterinarians also have to bear

the pain of seeing animals die and

endure serious pain. They risk

being bitten, scratched and urinated

on, and they have to euthanize

animals to relieve their suffering.

That being said, veterinarians

get to see animals all day and can

make a substantial amount of

money. On the flip side, they have

to pay for veterinary school and

commit eight years to earn a degree.

As with any of these jobs, talk to

dog professionals in your area about

entry-level work and volunteer

opportunities to see if you enjoy it.

– Jessica Mozo

canine careers FFA cool careers




Zook quadruplets MAke hISTOrY by simultaneously earning American FFA Degrees

QuadsAll-American

Story by Jessica Mozo

When Indiana quadruplets

Malena, Primmer, John

and Lucia Zook received

their American FFA Degrees in

October 2010 at the national FFA

convention, it made FFA history.

Although hundreds of FFA members

receive the degree at the convention

each year, it was the first time a set

of quadruplets received the highest

FFA honor at the same time.

The Zook siblings from Flora, Ind.,

spent six years in FFA at the junior-

and senior-high level in the Carroll

FFA Chapter. Their agriculture teacher,

Steve Keown, wasn’t surprised at the

Zooks’ high achievement.

“The kind of example the Zooks

set was outstanding,” Keown says.

“They would go out of their way to

make our chapter better. When they

volunteered to do something, you

knew it was going to get done on

time and correctly. They set The Zook quadruplets, from left, Primmer, John, Malena and Lucia, made FFA history when they all received their American FFA Degrees last October. The siblings have been involved with agriculture since an early age.je

FFa

dKiN

s



examples by showing FFA is more

than contests and conventions.

They worked very hard in all our

community service projects and

would take the time to help other

members or coach younger members

in activities they had done.”

A NATUrAL FiT

Born one minute apart

(from oldest to youngest), Primmer,

Malena, Lucia and John grew up on

a farm. Their involvement in FFA

came naturally, as they followed in

the footsteps of their older brother,

Jordon, who gained a lot from his

FFA involvement.

“Growing up, I remember going

to banquets and seeing Jordon

in Official Dress,” Lucia recalls.

“I looked up to our older brother

and saw how involved he was

in FFA. I wanted to be just like him.”

Soon the quadruplets found

themselves donning blue and gold

jackets like their big brother and

gaining skills such as leadership,

public speaking and responsibility.

“FFA got me to break out of my

comfort zone and meet new people,”

Lucia says. “When I zipped up my

FFA jacket, I became more confident

in myself.”

Malena says it is hard to

describe the extent to which

FFA has impacted her life.

“I wouldn’t be where I am

today without the experience and

knowledge I gained from FFA,” she

says. “Not only did I gain confidence

and a wealth of knowledge about the

agriculture industry, I also learned

what it meant to be an authentic

leader. Because of FFA, and

specifically my SAE [supervised

jeFFadKiNs



agricultural experience program]

and proficiency area, I was able

to learn about what I’m passionate

about and get a head start on what

I want to study in college.”

VAriED CArEEr GOALS

Although the four siblings have

much in common, the now-college

sophomores have very different

interests and career goals. Malena

is studying informatics at Indiana

University and plans to pursue a

career that combines technology and

education. Lucia is studying nursing

at Vincennes University and wants

to conduct animal-assisted therapy.

Primmer is majoring in exercise

science at Indiana University-

Purdue University Indianapolis and

hopes to work in physical therapy

and athletic training. And John’s

passion lies in production

agriculture and animal science – he

attends Ivy Tech Community College

and plans to operate a large farm of

his own one day.

“I would like to make my living

with livestock, whether it be with

show pigs or cattle,” John says.

“I have my own sow herd where

I sell show pigs, and I plan to

continue that business.”

HiGHEST FFA HONOr

Throughout their FFA careers,

the siblings worked toward their

American FFA Degrees, supporting

one another along the way.

“Being the highest award FFA

gives out, I thought it would be

excellent to have on my resume,”

Primmer says. “Also since my three

other siblings were working toward

it, I didn’t want to be left out. So that

motivated me.”

Though they each had different

SAEs, Primmer and John worked


https://www.ffa.org/Pages/default.aspx


together on a demonstration for a

district contest on how to process

baby pigs.

“The four of us each had our own

interests, proficiencies, contests and

activities we participated in, but we

have always known receiving our

American FFA Degrees would be

something we all worked toward,”

Malena says. “We each had different

ways of getting there, but we were

all working toward the same goal.”

Among other achievements,

Malena was on a national third-place

dairy team that went to Europe and

was a national finalist in the

agricultural communications

proficiency. John was a state winner

and national silver winner in the beef

production proficiency. Lucia had a

district-winning natural resources

demonstration that went to state

level. And Primmer was on district-

winning chapter meeting teams.

“All of them have always been

devoted to FFA. I knew if something

was their goal, they could get it

done,” Keown says. “We had 10

students achieve the American FFA

Degree this year, and all from the

same class. I don’t know how to put

it other than they are just great

kids, and I’m proud to say they

are from the Carroll FFA Chapter.”

TrEASUrED MEMOriES

Now miles apart at different

colleges after living together for

18 years, the quadruplets treasure

their FFA memories and the honor

they shared when they walked the

convention stage last fall.

“It’s such a great feeling to hear

your name called and walk across

that stage in front of thousands of

people in Lucas Oil Stadium,” Lucia

says. “It’s like an FFA graduation not

many people get to do.”

Malena says receiving the

degree was the “perfect way to

end my FFA career.”

“After being in college for a

year and a half, I have realized the

significant impact FFA has had on

me,” she continues. “I hope younger

members will take advantage of all

FFA can do for them as well.”

Now in college, the Zooks are working toward their career goals. Lucia studies nursing and animal-assisted therapies, Malena plans to combine technology and education in an informatics career, John is passionate about production agriculture and plans to operate a farm someday, and Primmer studies physical therapy and athletic training.

jeFF

adK

iNs


FFANATiON.FFA.Org 17FFA New HOrizONs

interestedinachievingthehighest

honorinFFa?theamericanFFadegree

isawardedtoFFamemberswhohave

demonstratedthehighestlevelof

commitmenttoFFaandmadesignificant

accomplishmentsintheirsaes.along

withthedegree,recipientsreceive

agoldamericanFFadegreekey.

toqualify,FFamembersmust:

• HavereceivedaGreenhand FFadegree,chapterFFadegree andstateFFadegree.• HavebeenFFamembers foratleastthreeyears.• Havecompletedatleastthree years(540hours)ofhighschool agricultureclasses,or2years ofhighschoolagriculture classesandoneyearofcollege agricultureclasses(360hours.)• Havegraduatedfromhigh schooloneyearpriortothe nationalFFaconventionat whichtheirdegreewill beawarded.• Havemaintaineddetailed saerecords,whichdemonstrate outstandingplanning,managerial andfinancialskills.• Haveearnedand productivelyinvested atleast$7,500,

orhaveearnedandproductively investedatleast$1,500andworked 2,250hoursbeyondscheduled schoolhoursthroughtheirsaes.• Havearecordofoutstanding leadershipskills.• Havearecordofparticipatingin

communityserviceactivities.• Havemaintaineda“c”grade averageorbetter.

Visitwww.ffa.orgformoreinformation.youcanalsoe-mailamericandegree@ffa.orgorcall317-802-4255.

About the American FFA Degree

http://www.lincolnelectric.com/en-us/Pages/default.aspx


MoneyRight on the

11 FACTS about money you probably never knew

We carry around dollar bills

of different quantities

every day, and chances

are you’ve got a George Washington

or an Abe Lincoln floating around in

your pocket or purse right now. But

did you know that same $1 bill that

sports the image of America’s first

president won’t even exist 18 months

from now?

That’s because bills that get

worn out from everyday use are

taken out of circulation and

replaced by the U.S. Treasury’s

Bureau of Engraving and Printing,

and different denominations of bills

typically last for different amounts

of time. Like we said, a $1 bill has the

shortest life, lasting only 18 months.

A $5 bill lasts about two years; a

$10 bill, three years; and a $100 bill,

nine years. Interesting stuff, huh?

Read on for more surprising

facts about money you can use to

impress your friends and family.

1.The first paper bills

were printed in 1862

in denominations of 1 cent,

5 cents, 25 cents and 50 cents.

2.Nearly half (48 percent)

of all bills are $1 notes.

3.Martha Washington is the

only woman whose face has

been printed on a U.S. currency

note. It appeared on $1 silver

certificates of 1886, 1891 and 1896.

4.Bills are made of 25 percent

linen and 75 percent cotton,

with red and blue synthetic fibers

distributed throughout the paper.

5.The Bureau of Engraving and

Printing prints 38 million new

notes every day, valuing around

$541 million. About 95 percent of

those bills are used to replace

worn-out bills already in circulation.

6.Paper bills are pretty resilient –

you would have to fold a U.S.

currency note forward and backward

about 4,000 times before it would tear.

7.“In God We Trust” first

appeared on U.S. coins in

1864 and became the national

motto a century later.

8.The largest bill in existence

is for $100,000, and Woodrow

Wilson’s portrait is printed on it.

However, it was never made

available to the public and was

limited to transactions between

the U.S. Treasury Department

and the Federal Reserve.

9.The $2 bill is still a valid

form of U.S. currency, though

many people hold on to them.

They were last printed in 2003,

and as of April 2007, there were

$1,549,052,714 worth of $2 bills

in circulation worldwide.

10.The largest bill currently

printed is for $100.

11.The distribution of

currency in denominations

of $500, $1,000, $5,000 and $10,000

was stopped by the Federal

Reserve in 1969 because safer

payment methods such as bank

transfers and check writing were

available. Those large bills can

still be found circulating today,

however, and they remain legal

tender if you can ever get your

hands on one.

– Jessica Mozo

FFA your money did you know?



http://www.marines.com/

Telling the story of Wisconsin agriculture has become a lifelong

passion for Christine Lindner. A native of Beaver Dam, Wis.,

she advocated while serving as her FFA chapter president,

then as the Wisconsin state FFA reporter, and now as Wisconsin’s

63rd Alice in Dairyland.

As Alice, she serves as a spokesperson for Wisconsin agriculture,

working to educate audiences of all ages through media interviews,

school visits and event presentations. In one year, Lindner will

travel more than 40,000 miles, working on behalf of Wisconsin

farmers to promote the state’s agriculture.

Learn more about Lindner’s unique opportunity in our

interview with her.

LindnerChristine

FFA alumna advocates for agriculture as WISCONSIN’S 63rd Alice in Dairyland

Q How do you feel FFA helped you prepare

for your current position as Alice?

A As a sophomore in high school, my life

changed because of FFA. I competed in

the State and National FFA Agricultural

Sales Career Development Event (CDE). This

CDE unwrapped my interest to pursue a career

in agricultural sales and marketing. I often

share this story with FFA members to help

communicate the value of FFA and impact it

can make for one individual. Now in my role as

our state’s agricultural ambassador, I use the

skills learned in FFA to bring Wisconsin’s

$59 billion agriculture industry into our

daily conversations. My goal is to encourage

consumers to take action with their dollars

in supporting agriculture by buying locally

grown products, which allows each of us

to support our state’s agriculture, local

producers, communities and economies.

Q Why do you think it’s so important for

anyone involved with agriculture to

advocate for our industry and teach others

about how their food and fiber is produced?

A The average American is now three

generations removed from production

agriculture. The need to connect and

educate consumers about our food, fiber

and natural resources industry is now.

As agriculturists, using our shared values

we must make essential connections with

consumers face-to-face, through the media

and using the latest communication tools to

help consumers understand that foods found

on grocery store shelves first start on farms.

Christine Lindner, FFA alumna and Wisconsin’s 63rd Alice in Dairyland


FFA Back Talk Former members reflect

visit the online version of this story to learn more about Christine lindner and for her suggestions on how you can educate others about your own state’s agriculture industry.

ffanation.ffa.org



https://www.ffa.org/shopffa/Pages/index.html

stateflip through our

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 [email protected].

Check out our

www.californiaffa.org

website

APRIL 2011

CALIfoRnIA ffA

PAGE

J Chapter Scoops

State officer farewell B-Coutstanding Chapter: Templeton ffA DSupporting California Agriculture: our State Staff EState Conference Pump-Up/Stay Connected fBehind the Scenes of State Conference GA Blast from the Past HState Judging finals IChapter Scoops J-P

What’s InsIde thIs Issue

BPAGEPAGE

I State Judging finals

State officer farewell

PAGE

D outstanding Chapter

State officer farewellA Look in the Rearview Mirror

B • CALIFORNIA FFA

“Friends are the family we choose along the way.” This quote could not describe our year better. Having been given the opportunity to travel across the beautiful state of California representing and advocating for the agriculture industry and all of the incredible 68,000 members of California was truly an honor. Through SOLCs, COLCs, ROLC, National Convention, MFE, ALA and especially chapter visits, you have showed us how to give, love, persevere and ultimately shaped us into the people we are today. Friends, thank you for giving us this

once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! Always, Vince, Lindsey,

Jacquelynne, Ben, Jessica and Casey

CALIFORNIA FFA • C

State officer farewellcontinued

continued onPage H

D • CALIFORNIA FFA CALIFORNIA FFA • E

outstanding Chapter:Templeton FFA

D • CALIFORNIA FFA

The Templeton FFA Chapter is located in the small community of Templeton on the central coast of California. In a town of 6,900 people, Templeton High School is home to 795 students, 274 of those students are enrolled in agriculture education. The Booker Brothers Vocational Agricultural Complex is located at the south end of campus and houses the Templeton Vocational Agriculture Program. The complex consists of a laboratory science classroom, computer aided drafting laboratory, welding technology shop, wood technology shop, an additional classroom, as well as teacher offices and a chapter officer planning room. Additional facilities on site include a greenhouse, shade house and potting shed area. A short walk away is a 7-acre school farm laboratory consisting of sheep, hog and cattle barns, as well as showing, poultry area and garden plots.

The Vocational Agriculture program at Templeton High School strives to fully implement the three circles of agriculture education on a daily basis. The facilities and resources available from the community greatly benefit the curriculum in the program. Although traditionally offering only elective courses, students are currently able to receive their UC/CSU Visual and Performing Arts credit for ROP Art & History of Floral Design. In the future, students should be able to complete Agriculture Biology for science credit, in addition to the extensive and rigorous career technical education courses offered.

Students in Templeton FFA fully recognize the value of their involvement and strive to participate in as many activities as possible. Chapter meetings are conducted professionally with recreational opportunities at the conclusion. During National FFA Week, the

chapter officers organize an FFA Game Night, where members of the program spend time in the agriculture complex playing board, video and computer games for an evening of food, fun and FFA festivities. Besides spending time developing peer relationships, members also enjoy participating in various community service activities such as the Clothe the Needy Coat Drive and Toys for Tots Toy Drive.

Student projects in the Vocational Agriculture program are extensive. From floral design to hog production, students are working hard to develop opportunities for themselves in agriculture, outside of the classroom. The annual student project auction has been held for 11 years allowing students the chance to sell their wood and metal shop fabricated projects to the community. A unique format, the dinner event sells approximately 50 student project annually. Items from patio furniture to oak cabinetry, student projects bring on average $500 a piece to the auction.

The vocational agriculture program at Templeton High School strives to provide unique, well-rounded experiences to the members. Education may change, but the program has held on to its vocational background while embracing the opportunity to provide greater variety to its students.

Templeton FFA is in the South Coast Region FFA and is one of seven chapters in the San Luis Obispo FFA Section.

Advisors: Chris Hildebrand Robin Schroeder Erin Thompson

The Templeton FFA Chapter Officers meet regularly for morning breakfast meetings to plan chapter activities and events.

GLC participants excited about the FFA after the day’s festivities.

Freshman members prepare for competition at the Sectional BIG and Creed Speaking contest.

Members of all classes participate in valuable leadership development activities such a problem solving and team work.

Members of the California State Champion Welding team proudly represent Templeton FFA.

D • CALIFORNIA FFA CALIFORNIA FFA • ECALIFORNIA FFA • E

Agricultural Education State Staff

Front Row: Jean Landeen, Central Region Advisor, 41 years

Katie Otto, Financial Coordinator, 3 years Lynn Martindale, UC Davis Professor, 25 years

Jeanette Sturzen, Superior Region Advisor, 23 years Tina Kloss, Membership Coordinator, 4 years

Back Row: Brad Dodson, CSU Chico Professor, 30 years

Hugh Mooney, North Coast Region Advisor, 27 years Josiah Mayfield, Assistant State FFA Advisor, 9 years

Bob Heuvel, State FFA Advisor, 37 years Bob Commings, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo Professor, 36 years

Greg Beard, South Coast Region FFA Advisor, 25 years Rosco Vaughn, CSU Fresno State Professor, 46 years

Jack Havens, Southern Region Advisor, 32 years Lloyd McCabe, Agriculture Education Consultant, 35 years Bill Kellogg, Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo Professor, 35 years

Ken Harris, San Joaquin Advisor, 46 years Marcus Hollan, Conference Coordinator, 1 year

Not pictured: Jim Aschwanden, CATA Executive Director, 35 years

Together our State FFA Staff has 490 years of knowledge and wisdom serving you!

F • CALIFORNIA FFA CALIFORNIA FFA • G

State Conference Pump Up

STAy CoNNeCTed

Become friends with your California FFA State Officers, and stay connected to latest news of CA FFA. facebook com/caffa officers

April 16-19, 201183rd CAliFORniA STATE FFA lEAdERSHip COnFEREnCE

Visit www.calaged.org for more information. See you there!

http://www.facebook.com/caffa.officers

F • CALIFORNIA FFA CALIFORNIA FFA • G

Behind the scenes of State FFA Conference, ever wonder?Information gathered from Jason Ferreira, former Tulare Union FFA member, and Mandy Hill, former Arcata FFA member

The vibrations from the blaring music pound beneath your feet, your eyes are captivated by the laser show, the excitement in the air makes your heart pound faster and faster, and you are instantly amazed by the sea of blue and gold in Selland Arena. Many of you have experienced the four life-changing days of a California State FFA Conference, but have you ever wondered who works to put this conference together?

In addition to the State FFA Officers, State Staff and numerous others, Fresno State students have a special role in putting on State Conference. Fresno State students have the opportunity to join the California State FFA Conference Committee, which is advised by Dr. Rosco Vaughn, an Agriculture Education professor at Fresno State. The group is typically composed of roughly 50 Fresno State undergraduate students. Majority of the students in the class were former FFA members. FFA Alumni like Jason have participated in this committee. “I would notice all of the red Fresno State shirts running around State Conference, but I never realized how much work those individuals put into the conference,” explained Jason Ferreira, the 2010 State Conference Committee President. Jason is extremely grateful to have served on the committee because it opened his eyes and allowed him to appreciate the amount of behind-the-scenes work that goes into putting on a successful State FFA Conference.

The committee meets weekly during the spring semester. The committee is structured with 13 sub-committees and an executive committee. The executive committee consists of a President, Vice-president, Secretary and Treasurer. The 13 sub-committees consist of Agriscience Fair, Activities Volunteer, Career Show, Operations, Polling Booths, Press Corps, Proficiency Awards, Public Relations, Signs, Stage Decorations, Transportation/Tours, Web Proceedings and Workshops. All in all, the California FFA Association is extremely thankful for the time and commitment given by the Fresno State FFA Conference Committee.

Behind the Scenes:State Conference

H • CALIFORNIA FFA CALIFORNIA FFA • I

Have you ever wondered what your past State FFA Officers are up to?Many of us were inspired, befriended and touched by the 2009-2010 State FFA Officer Team. They traveled California and impacted the lives of many, but have you ever wondered what your past State Officers are up too now? Well, we caught up with them and they gladly answered a few questions to share with you! AB – Adrienne Bradley, 2009-2010 State PresidentSd – Sam Doty, 2009-2010 State Vice PresidentMS – Mikaela Serafin, 2009-2010 State SecretaryJl – Jordan Lippincott, 2009-2010 State TreasurerKS – Kaylyn Schiber, 2009-2010 State ReporterTp – Tatiana Prestininzi, 2009-2010 State Sentinel WHAT COllEgE ARE yOu ATTEnding?

Sd, MS, Jl, Tp: Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo

AB: UC Davis

KS: Western Illinois University

WHAT ARE yOu MAJORing in?

Jl: Agriculture Sciences-Communication, Biochemistry minor

Tp: Agriculture Sciences-Communication,Ag Business minor

AB: Agricultural and Environmental Education major, International Relations minor

MS: Agriculture Science, emphasis in Education; Religious Studies minor

KS: Agricultural Education

Sd: Agriculture Sciences-Communication, Global Politics minor

WHAT ARE yOu up TO nOW? (CluBS, ACTiviTiES, ETC.)

Jl: ACT (Ag Communicators of Tomorrow) member, Ag Ambassadors member, AMSA (American Medical Student Association) member and planning to join a fraternity

Tp: ACT (Ag Communicators of Tomorrow) member, Ag Ambassadors member, ASI Community and Outreach

Sd: ACT (Ag Communicators of Tomorrow) Videographer, Ag Ambassadors member, Awkward Squad founding member, Kohls part-time Home and Kids Associate, and applying to be a Poly Rep (College Ambassador)

HOW HAS FFA pREpAREd yOu FOR COllEgE?

Jl: It prepared me for the rigor of college courses and also gave a base agriculture knowledge that I can adequately expand upon in my higher education.

MS: The National FFA Organization helped me prepare for college by laying the foundation to help me explore and develop the passions I possess, increase my study and work habits, as well as

allow myself to develop skills that cannot be found in any other organization.

KS: FFA provided me with the work ethic I need to be successful in college. It has also helped me learn how to break out of my comfort zone, which has led me to getting involved and making new friends.

WHAT ABOuT FFA dO yOu MiSS?

AB: More than anything, I miss all of the wonderful people in the FFA!

MS: I most certainly miss the inspiring members from across the nation, but especially the ones from the good ole state of California … they are the best!

Sd: I miss all the adventurous road trips, the amazing members, conferences, and that overall feeling when you zip up that blue and gold corduroy jacket.

WHAT dO yOu lOvE ABOuT COllEgE?

Jl: I love the San Luis Obispo environment, all the new friends I have met and the fun classes you get to take, like Chemistry Lab (where there are a lot of great experiments).

Tp: I love the people, classes, the beautiful weather and downtown San Luis Obispo.

AB: What I love about Davis: the friends I have met here, downtown Davis (with America’s favorite Farmers Market), the many cultures that make the college so diverse, crepes are everywhere and the opportunities available at Davis – international experiences, all kinds of clubs, numerous majors, and the variety of classes and internship/job/research opportunities

KS: I love the new friends I have made, being close to my family and the cold weather! But mostly I love the agriculture education program. I have already learned so many things that I hope will make me a successful Ag Teacher in the future.

A Blast from our Short ffA Past: Catching up with the 2009-2010 State FFA officer Team

H • CALIFORNIA FFA

H • CALIFORNIA FFA CALIFORNIA FFA • ICALIFORNIA FFA • I

2011 STATE ffA JUDGInG fInALS

Who will be our next California State FFA Champion Teams, will it be your chapter?

Cal Poly, San Luis obispo May 7, 2011 Competitions are as follows:

Ag Issues Agribusiness, Cal Poly SLO

Ag Mechanics In Honor of Bill King

Agronomy California Seed Association

Best Informed Greenhand California Farm

Bureau Federation

Dairy Cattle Western United Dairymen

Dairy Products DeSilva Family Trust

farm Business Management George Gomes

farm Records Elk Grove FFA Boosters

floriculture California FFA Foundation

forestry Calif Forestry Association

Land American Ag Credit/

Farm Credit West/CoBank

Light Horse Rasmussen Livestock

Livestock Bakersfield High School –

In Memory of Robert Bowman

Marketing Agricultural Council of California

Marketing Plan UCD Agricultural Education

nursery/Landscape California Association of

Nurseries & Garden Centers

Poultry California FFA Foundation

Specialty Animals California FFA Foundation

Vegetables California FFA Foundation

J • CALIFORNIA FFA CALIFORNIA FFA • KJ • CALIFORNIA FFA

Atascadero ffA Chapter

The Atascadero FFA has ended their 2010 year with a bang and started their 2011 year with an even bigger one. The officer team gave back to the community, members worked hard to get ready for competitions and members attended conferences.

In December 2010, the officer team hosted a canned food drive to help the local Loaves and Fishes. Students who brought in cans would receive an activity point to go towards their semester’s total grade and they would help out their community. The team had also gone to the local Vons and asked people if they would like to contribute to the Atascadero FFA Canned Food Drive and many did. The team had surpassed last year’s total by collecting more than 2,700 cans. When they dropped the items off at the local Loaves and Fishes, they were very grateful.

On Saturday January 15, two students set out on an adventure to the Denver, Colo. to show at the National Western Stock Show. They arrived Saturday afternoon tired and excited. Alex Borba showed a light-weight crossbred barrow that placed ninth in class. Ryan Debusk received seventh place for his heavy weight spot bar-row. All in all, they had a great time, and it was a great experience for them to learn, grow and participate in.

Buhach Colony ffA ChapterWritten by Lindsay Olds, Chapter Reporter

The Buhach Colony FFA hosted its fourth annual fashion show on December 4 at a popular, local Mexican restaurant in Atwater, California. Members volunteered to model outfits from a variety of clothing stores within the Atwater and Merced communities, giving them an opportunity to promote their business. Tickets were sold at $25, and those who attended received lunch with their show, as well as special discount deals from specific participating stores. The guests were also given an opportunity to take home numerous gifts from our silent auction and raffle, for which the items were donated by individuals or made in the shop classes. The cost of the event was covered by table and placemat sponsors placed at each setting. The fashion show allows the chapter to meet with the community on a personal basis and serves as a great fundraiser!

Duncan Poly ffA ChapterWritten by Jessica Irvin, Chapter Reporter

The Duncan Poly FFA chapter members have been working on their arboretum throughout the semester. The members began on August 21, 2010 and are still continuing the renovations. Chapter President, Julie Vang stated, “We’re creating a natural habitat to encourage native animals to live there.” The group did this by revamping the pond, evaluating plants to ensure that there were only California native plants and by reestablishing the trail.

A few things the members learned during this project were how to identify plant species, to use tools safely and correctly, and how to fix sprinklers. Erick Franson, the chapter’s Parliamentarian, men-tioned that they learned about the beauty of California’s nature, and why he and the rest of the members are learning about agriculture. The group is dedicated to continuing their study of agriculture and views the arboretum renovation as a great learning experience!

East nicolaus ffAWritten by Katie Moos, Chapter Reporter

Doing what we love … Loving what we do. The 2010-2011 East Nicolaus Officer Team and its members started the school year off strong. More than 30 freshmen attended the 2010 Hollywood-themed Greenhand Conference. Forty-two freshmen participated in Greenhand Initiation and donned green hands around campus.

Eight chapter members are currently participating in FARMS, an agricultural leadership program that gives students an opportunity to see agriculture as it relates to industry. Students toured a mush-

Chapter Scoops

J • CALIFORNIA FFA CALIFORNIA FFA • K

room farm in Colusa, and learned that Portabella mushrooms double in size each day leading up to harvest.

In December, East Nicolaus FFA held its annual Christmas Tree Sale. The officer team celebrated the holiday break with the annual “Christmas Murder Mystery Party.” The officers enjoyed spending time together and exchanged gifts while trying to figure out whodunit.

In January 17 members attended the Made For Excellence and Advanced Leadership Academy conferences in Redding. The chap-ter officers and advisors are looking forward to an eventful spring semester with basketball concessions, Superior Region Meeting, State Leadership Conference, Easter Egg Hunt, Project Competition and the end-of-the-year Chapter Banquet.

Escondido ffA Chapter

At Escondido High School our Agriculture Department hosts a community event held at our farm each year titled “Pumpkin Festival.” This is our third year hosting the event, and every year it gets bigger and bigger. The community comes together for a day of family fun, which includes live entertainment, hay rides, games, crafts, petting zoo, live performances, and we sell pumpkins grown from our pumpkin patch. All of the proceeds go towards scholarships for our students and for financial assistance for leadership conferences.

Esparto ffA ChapterSubmitted by Carolann Clark, Chapter Reporter

This winter break students from the Esparto Agricultural Department traveled eight hours to Pasadena to participate in building floats for the Rose Bowl Parade. This is the second year that Esparto has worked on the floats. Because every inch of the float needs to be covered with a natural material, it’s a great way for floral students to see a wide variety of flowers and different materials. Students worked on a Kiwanis-sponsored float that featured a large eagle. They worked on cutting feathers out of corn husks and palms, and cut petals to cover the floats while other students glued feathers onto the eagle.

fillmore ffA ChapterWritten by Brooke Aguirre, Chapter Reporter

Mr. Ricards, advisor from Fillmore High School, along with several FFA members attended the Greenhand Conference in Canoga Park. When I asked Kaileigh Carpenter about the conference, she explained to me that she was impressed that the conference was not just about FFA, but how to succeed in life. Zahydie Martin, enjoyed the team-building activities; one of which included being on a team

where they would periodically yell out their team chant, and who-ever was the loudest earned points. While talking with Hailee Smith, she said she really enjoyed that the conference leaders made them sit with students they didn’t know, which helped her meet new people. It was obvious after talking with Jennifer Martin, that the conference was a positive experience for her. She was so impressed by the conference that she asked Mr. Ricards to sign her up for every future FFA conference. It was good to hear that this year’s Greenhand Conference was enjoyed by all who attended.

Gonzales ffAWritten by Karina Salomon, Chapter President

Throughout the summer four Gonzales FFA members, Alejandro Rosas, Dianey Duran, Jorge Zarate and Karina Salomon, dedicated countless hours to accumulate funds for the 2010 National FFA Convention. The idea of having to raise thousands of dollars made the students a bit skeptical, yet they were willing to work hard in order to make this trip a reality. With all the support from local business, companies and fundraising the members accomplished their financial goal for the trip. On December 15 the four members and one advisor met at school and headed to the San Francisco

CALIFORNIA FFA • KCALIFORNIA FFA • K

Chapter Scoops Continued

L • CALIFORNIA FFA CALIFORNIA FFA • ML • CALIFORNIA FFA


International Airport. After the two-hour wait they boarded the plane and were off to Louisville, Ky. It had almost been 24 hours since any of them had gotten sleep, yet when they touched down they were fully awake and filled with energy.

During the week these members traveled through Nashville, Tenn., Louisville, Ky., and Indianapolis, Ind. They visited historical sites, museums and had amazing learning experiences. All the members could agree that the best part of the trip was arriving in Indianapolis on Wednesday and seeing blue jackets flooding the streets. The only bad part of this trip was leaving; the members came back to their hometown with a new perspective and motivated. Everything they took from the convention is now imple-mented on their chapter and lives; overall the members and the advisor had an amazing experience!

Heritage ffA ChapterWritten by Beth Boss, Chapter President

3 …2 … 1 … grab those shovels, put on those hard hats and get a camera! On December 16, 2010, that is exactly what Heritage FFA members did as we celebrated the groundbreaking of our new 4.5-million dollar farm. With 6,516 square-feet of laboratory space, an egg-laying barn, greenhouse, rabbit barn and pastures, the Heritage High School Agricultural Research Center (also known as the ARC) will rest on 2.5 acres of land located at the school. With community members, school officials and city council in attendance, the celebration began with an introduction by the high school band leading into speeches given by school administration along with FFA advisors and members. All of our members in attendance couldn’t be more excited about the construction of the

new facility (due to open in January 2012), as it is not only building a path of hands on learning for our generation, but many more students to follow.

Imperial ffA Chapter Written by Miguel Ruiz, Chapter Reporter

On Thursday October 28, members of the Imperial FFA Chapter traveled to Westside Elementary School to help out at a community

service. The FFA members helped out by serving food at Westside’s annual barbeque. Every year Westside elementary school has this barbeque to help raise money for the rest of their school year. The Westside Barbeque has been a community service that the Imperial FFA has attended for many years with pleasure and has always had successful barbeques. This year the service went great as it always has. Many members attended and the Imperial FFA had an awe-some evening.

King City ffASubmitted by Nicole Hardoy, Chapter Reporter

Over the holidays King City FFA participated and competed in the local Christmas Parade. The theme of this year’s parade was “Candy Cane Lane”. Our chapter chose the float theme of “Candy Land”. With our own theme “Candy Land” we incorporated one of our

favorite childhood games and this year’s parade theme. Over five days many of our members put together a wonderful float. Our float got second place overall! We are really proud of all of the work

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that our members put into the float and how well it did. Over 20 members participated in riding on the float and enjoyed showing off their FFA jackets while riding through the streets of King City.

Laton ffA ChapterWritten by Billy Yecny, Chapter President

Members of the Laton FFA were looking for a unique way to show-case their chapter and highlight their community and agriculture

when they decided to enter into the Feature Display competition at the Big Fresno Fair. Members designed, fabricated and constructed a barnyard complete with the barn and farmyard animals with their Best of Show entry. Members had to research past farming prac-tices so they were able to create an educational display that would show how far agriculture has come over the past few decades. Their display included items from our agricultural past such a butter churn, an 1800s barbed wire collection, cream canisters, wire stretchers, horse-drawn plow and oxen harness along with many other items.

Littlerock ffA ChapterWritten by Chelsey Jurkovac, Chapter Reporter

Over the past several months, the Littlerock FFA Chapter held events where members could come get involved and enjoy them-selves. On October 29, 2010, the Littlerock Chapter hosted their annual Halloween meeting. Members were able to come to the eve-ning meeting to learn of the new and exciting business our chapter

had, and then participate in the fun activities that were available; such as the costume contest, reverse bobbing for apples, getting your picture taken in a coffin, and reaching in covered boxes to feel strange and unusual items. There were interesting Halloween snacks for all the members and guests to enjoy as well. Overall the Halloween meeting was a huge success and numerous members seemed to have an amazing time.

A few months later on December 9, 2010, the Littlerock FFA Chapter hosted their annual holiday meeting. Various members and guests were present at this meeting; where the officers went through their business, then the members received holiday snacks and were able participate in the fun-filled holiday activities. All the members received a holiday candy bag, cookie, and glass of either hot cocoa or warm spiced cider to enjoy. Afterward members chose to participate in either the candy cane game or the gingerbread house making contest. First, second, third place winners in the both contests received wonderful prizes. Everyone who attended the holiday meeting had a wonderful and exciting time.

As a reward for all the hard work of FFA members who received either an A or a B in their agriculture classes, a movie night was held on January 21, 2011. The members got to vote for the movie they would like to see, and then they all found a seat in the school’s theater while the votes were counted. The movie that received the most votes was Toy Story 3. Everyone watched about half of the movie before there was a short intermission in the cafeteria for everyone to come get popcorn, candy and refreshments to enjoy; shortly after everyone was done with their snacks they returned to the theater to finish the movie. The movie night was a huge success, and also shows students that if they work hard they may be rewarded with fun activities.

Livingston ffA ChapterWritten by Hailey Ward, Chapter Reporter

In January, Livingston FFA was determined to renew community support in our program. We looked to Foster Farms to help us

reach that goal. With the help of our Ag Advisory member, current Vice-President of Foster Farms, Greta Janz, we were lined up for a state-of-the-art V.I.P. tour of the entire operation of Foster Farms. We started the tour on an early Friday morning in January. We took Principal Calderon, Greta Janz, as well as our officer team and Ag teachers. Our first stop of the day was the Hatchery in Waterford,

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and who was there to greet us but former state officer Jordan Liptencott’s dad, who led us on the tour. We experienced the process of egg hatching, and were even allowed to hold barely hatched baby chicks. We had a great time and are extremely grateful for the experience!

Lodi ffA ChapterSubmitted by Courtney Miller, FFA Reporter

During the month of November, the Lodi FFA Chapter Officers spent weeks preparing for their Annual Greenhand and Chapter Degree Ceremony. The week started off with the Greenhands making their Official Greenhand shirts to wear the day of and to the Ceremony that night. They also painted one hand green and made their mark on the annual Greenhand sign. The chapter officer team planned numerous games and initiation activi-ties for the Greenhands who were receiving their degrees. All Greenhands participated in the games and had a great time, while enjoying wearing their Green Hand on their forehead. With more than 75 Greenhands present, the Lodi FFA was very excited to wel-come so many new and ecstatic members into our chapter!

Lone Pine ffA ChapterWritten by Allison Wilder, Chapter Reporter

Lone Pine FFA has a lot going on with our farm this year! Currently, the Lone Pine High School FFA Farm is home to Kenny the llama, Stanley the alpaca, Layla the donkey, four goats, three miniature horses, two cats and an assortment of chickens. Every year mem-bers have different ideas of what projects we want to have at the farm. Last year, top suggestions were peacocks and running ducks, so far this year, Kenny the llama took top prize for best idea for the farm.

Our farm was built on the ideas of our members, but the animals are just the beginning. We also have 20 fruit trees, a seasonal live-stock unit where we keep sheep and hogs that members are raising for the Junior Livestock Auction, two tractors, a showmanship ring, two gardens and a brand-new Beef Unit. Lone Pine FFA members are always on the move, coming up with ideas, and then trying them out to see what happens. Our advisor Mrs. Lacey always keeps us thinking and tells us in so many ways that if we are willing to work hard, almost anything can work out!

Lucerne Valley ffA ChapterWritten by Zenia Lopez, Chapter Reporter

On September 22, 2010, the Lucerne Valley FFA Chapter put on a unique way for the chapter officers to meet the members of their chapter. The leadership activity was called the Chapter Leadership Workshop or CLW. Each officer put on his or her own workshop for each period during the entire school day. The workshop lasted

around five minutes where the members were able to learn a life lesson while participating and getting to know each officer. After all the officers had presented their workshop, a skit was performed to reveal the year’s theme: Be the Difference. The members had a fun day meeting each officer personally rather than a quick meet and greet. The day was filled with music, laughter, games, life lessons, and at the very end, ice cream!

nipomo ffA ChapterWritten by Riley Nilsen, Chapter Reporter

Bright and early Wednesday morning, on December 8, 62 green-hands were initiated into the Nipomo FFA Chapter. They came to dye their hands green, enjoy donuts and take part in a scavenger hunt around the entire campus. The morning was particularly spe-cial because three members took the initiation to the next level and dyed their face green for the day. Sean Howell, Logan Elder and Ryan Maness were the three boys who demonstrated that the Nipomo FFA Chapter always goes above and beyond the call of duty. Our greenhands benefited from an eventful morning to kick off the start of their FFA career.

That same night, the Chapter held our annual Winter Banquet where the greenhand and chapter degree recipients were recog-nized. The banquet hall was decorated in sparkling Christmas trees and twinkling lights. The meeting began with opening ceremonies and a dessert potluck. Many families enjoyed a variety of desserts and celebrated taking an important step in their FFA futures. Five members recited the creed, saying one paragraph each and made the chapter proud while reciting our organization’s outline for being a model FFA member. The 62 greenhands received their bronze pins, and the smiles on their faces couldn’t have been more reward-ing. The 20 Chapter degree recipients were glad their hard work finally paid off and stoked to finally receive their silver pins. The Winter Banquet was a huge success, and this year our Chapter went above and beyond.

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north Salinas ffA ChapterWritten by Victoria Silva, Chapter Reporter

At the North Salinas FFA Chapter, we work hard to keep our Ag students involved in as many chapter activities as possible. On the other hand, the school’s ASB Leadership tries to incorporate the FFA Chapter in their school activities as well. The school’s ASB Leadership and our FFA Chapter worked together in a canned food drive in the month of December. A school-wide canned food and toy drive was monitored by the ASB Leadership as they maintained prizes of their own, while the FFA Chapter received cans from Ag students, which earned them activity credits. After a few days of the canned food drive, four FFA Officers and the ASB Leadership took the collected 1,000 cans and 200 toys over to the local news station. There, all the donations were placed in the care of the city’s Salvation Army.

Ripon ffA ChapterWritten by Nick Thomas, Chapter Reporter

Sounds of laughter and children having fun filled the air at the Ripon FFA’s annual Main Street Day Petting Zoo on Saturday, October 16, 2010. During this day, Main Street is packed with

booths, displays, food and lots of people enjoying themselves. The free petting zoo, which was located in the children’s area of

the festival, included a variety of animals such as piglets, ducks, dairy calves, pot bellied pigs, tortoises, chickens and rabbits. About 200 children and parents came through the petting zoo throughout the day. Many of the kids enjoyed the rabbits and the piglets. Ripon FFA students look forward to this activity each year because it gives them the opportunity to promote Agriculture and the FFA in a positive way to their community. They also proudly display pictures of what they have already accomplished for the year.

San Luis obispo ffASubmitted by Lauren Huffakerm, Chapter Reporter

San Luis Obispo High School Animal Science class field trip to Alimo Pintado Equine Medical Center, January 12, 2011, Los Olivos: Nine members from San Luis Obispo High School’s Animal Science Class attended Alimo Pintado Equine Medical Center to tour their unique facilities. While on tour students not only learned about the different parts of a horse, but also about various injuries that can happen through a horse’s life, and about different procedures conducted at Alimo Pintado with their exquisite equipment and facilities. The field trip was a lot of fun and the San Luis Obispo agriculture students enjoyed their “learning to do” experience!

Santa Maria ffA Chapter

On Saturday, December 11 Santa Maria FFA members rounded up their canned food and headed to the fairgrounds in the annual Salvation Army canned food drive. Members worked for hours and helped raise thousands of cans of food as well as toys. This was part of a two-day community service done by FFA members. On Sunday

CA FFA New Horizons Due Dates:August 2011 Material Deadline Date – 5/20/11

Send in your Chapter Scoop today! Ask your Chapter Officer Team or advisor to send in a print quality photo along with 100-150 words describing your chapter’s latest news to Michelle Jimenez at [email protected].

Do you have a Chapter Scoop to share?

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State officer farewellcontinued

the 12 members headed to the Altrusa Festival of Trees event. Dozens of trees were raffled off including the 7-foot Santa Maria FFA tree. Members got the opportunity to meet Altrusa members and then were invited for a special lunch. This year was a great success thanks to FFA members.

Soledad ffA ChapterWritten by Ryan Sigala, Chapter Reporter

“It’s happening in Soledad!” – especially every Thursday. Members of the Soledad FFA are taking a small step in helping the environment, and in the process, raising money to fund scholarships for FFA leadership conferences. The chapter organized a campus-wide recycling program in which recycling stations were placed in every classroom and throughout the facilities of the school. Every Thursday after school, chapter members collect all the alumi-num cans, plastic and glass bottles from all the recycling stations on campus. At the end of each month, all the bottles and cans are sorted and taken to the local recycling center. All the money earned is “recycled” back into the chapter in the form of scholarships to help cover the expenses of FFA conferences and activities. Although this is Soledad’s first year participating in this event, it is off to a great start for they have already raised a couple hundred dollars. “Recycling is a great way to help our environment and our chapter members. It’s a win-win situation for everyone involved,” said Chapter President, Andrew Seeley. Soledad FFA is looking forward to continuing this program for many years.


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Check out our

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website

APRIL 2011

ILLINOIS ASSOCIATION FFA

International Leadership Seminar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B

State CDE Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . D

Deadlines, Upcoming Events & Announcements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E

Meet Your 2010-2011 State FFA Reporter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F

Call to Convention . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . G

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

What’s InsIde thIs Issue

FFA in the Spotlight

Meet Your State FFA Reporter,

Morgan Ott | F

ILSSO | B Announcements | EState CDE Results | D

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International Leadership Seminar for State Officers

Anxiety, nervousness and a lot of excitement were just a few of the emotions that the five Major State Officers felt as they began their adventure overseas. The officers participated in the International Leadership Seminar for State Officers, ILSSO. On January 3 John, Jake, Morgan, Cody and Jeff boarded the plane to Miami, Fla. After arriving in Miami, the majors decided to visit the city and enjoy the sunshine! After an exciting day, the majors returned to the hotel in Miami where they met other state officers from across the nation for the evening of ILSSO orientation. This evening was just a get-to-know-each-other meeting, and the big orientation took place the following morning. The orientation gave them the chance to prepare themselves for the experience of a lifetime!

After the orientation on January 5, the excited tourists boarded the airplane for a long flight to Buenos Aires, Argentina. After arriving in the capital, the officers met their Argotours guide and drivers. The groups spent the night and day in Buenos Aires getting accustomed to a new culture, enjoying walking tours of the city and spending some of their first pesos in the little shops. The following morning the group toured three cities: Buenos Aires, Pergamino and Rosario. During the first full day of touring, the group had the chance to visit a farm dedicated to the production of corn, soybeans and wheat.

On the morning of January 7, the officers took a visit to Terminal 6, one of the largest port terminals, which is owned and operated by three large companies. After the visit to Terminal 6, the group took a cruise on the Parana River to have a panoramic view of the several private ports and crushing industries of the area. During the cruise the officers learned that San Martin region has the highest soybean crushing concentration in the world. After the

cruise they boarded the buses to travel to Melincue, a small town in the middle of the Pampas.

Moving into their fourth day, the officers had the chance to visit the cities of Melincue and Venado Tuerto where they had the opportunity to visit a horse farm. During their visit to the farm, they had the chance to see stallions and mares along with watching some of the training with the colts. This was a neat experience to see how they train their livestock in Argentina compared to how we train our livestock in Illinois.

On January 10, the FFA officers boarded the buses back to Buenos Aires where they visited the Palermo and Barrio Norte districts, which boasted expensive houses and classic architecture. After their visits, the afternoon was free for individual sightseeing and shopping. That evening, the officers had the chance to see some of the best dancers in the country performing old and new variations of the Tango.

After a fun and eventful evening, the following day was spent in the U.S. Embassy for a briefing by the Foreign Ag Service staff. After the quick briefing, we boarded the plane to Puerto Iguazu, a small town located at the confluence of the Iguazu and Parana rivers. Once the officers were all settled into the hotel in Puerto Iguazu, the next day was dedicated to visiting the Argentina side of the falls. During this day, the group hopped on a small train that took us to the Devil’s Throat, the largest fall in the whole complex that is approximately 4 miles long. Once we reached the Devil’s

Throat, the FFA officers walked to the top of the falls for a very impressive view!

During the final two days of the trip traveling by bus and airplane, the officers took a few last opportunities to spend their remaining pesos on gifts for friends and family. The trip definitely turned out to be a life-changing and educational experience. The team experienced the opportunity to study agriculture overseas, develop a great respect for other cultures, and made many new friends and everlasting memories. John, Jake, Morgan, Cody and Jeff would like to once again thank all of the sponsors for making this trip possible. Without the support of their communities, chapters, sections and local businessmen, they would not have learned the significance of global agriculture.

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“Thanks to educators at JJC who specialize and have experience working in the subjects they teach, I have received an education that will put me a cut above competitors in my future career field.”

Christina Bissey 2010 Agricultural Education Graduate

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Ad paid for by: GAST GRANT FROM THE ILLINOIS STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION.

THE AGRICULTURAL and HORTICULTURAL SCIENCE DEPARTMENT OFFERS: • Degree Programs in Agriculture Business, Agriculture Production and Management, Swine Management

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• Transfer programs for both Agriculture and Horticulture

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• Nationally competitive livestock judging team and horticulture team

• 100% job placement for graduates

• 30 first-year tuition scholarships for Ag students

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• Courses are hands on, using our 140-acre land lab, formal teaching gardens and state-of-the-art LEED Certified greenhouses

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State AgronomyTop 5 Teams: 1. Paxton-Buckley-Loda

2. Cumberland

3. Galva

4. Hartsburg-Emden

5. Prairie Central

Top 5 Individuals: 1. Seth Strom, Galva

2. Lucas Roberts, Farmington

3. Clayton Glazik, Paxton-Buckley-Loda

4. Matt Duesterhaus, Unity-Mendon

5. Jaylynn Maxey, Cumberland

State CDE Results

State Food ScienceTop 5 Chapters: 1. Midland

2. Unity

3. Liberty

4. Hartsburg-Emden

5. Pontiac

Top 5 Individuals: 1. Gabbie Dempsey, Unity

2. Mackenzie Buyck, Liberty

3. Mallory Blunier, Midland

4. Taylor Streitmatter, Midland

5. Josh Carroll, Pontiac

State Ag SalesSuperior Teams: 1. Cissna Park

2. Olney

Customer Relations Individuals: 1. Trent Taber, Geneseo

2. Ben Magers, Paxton-Buckley-Loda

Customer Service Individuals: 1. Audrey Burgener, Olney

2. Cole Hasselbring, Cissna Park

Prospecting Individuals: 1. Doug Brutlag, Cissna Park

2. Dallas Glazik, Paxton-Buckley-Loda

Host’s Choice Individuals: 1. Kelsie Ochs, Olney

2. Lauryn Elliott, Oakwood

Sales Call Individuals: 1. Darren Riskedal, Somonauk-Leland

2. Dane Hasselbring, Cissna Park

State Dairy FoodsTop 5 Teams: 1. Prairie Central

2. Seneca

3. Liberty

4. Midland

5. Paxton-Buckley-Loda

Top 5 Individuals: 1. Jason Wenger, Prairie Central

2. Trevor Hartman, Prairie Central

3. Eli Peterson, Prairie Central

4. Perry Harlow, Seneca

5. Steven Beisswenger, Seneca

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Deadlines, Upcoming Events & Announcements

DeadlinesHeritage and Cooperative Activities Due to Section President – March 15, 2011

Outstanding Section President Application Due to Illinois Farm Bureau Youth Dept. – March 28, 2011

National Chapter Award Application Due to State office – May 1, 2011

State Band & Chorus Application Due to State office – April 15, 2011

Chapter President Award Application Due to State office – May 1, 2011

Agriscience Student Award Application Due to State office – May 1, 2011

Century Challenge Award Application Due to State office – May 1, 2011

Prairie Central High School Attends the National Champion Dairy Judging Team Trip to Europe! Prairie Central High School was the 2009 National Dairy Judging Champion at the 82nd National FFA Convention and represented Illinois and the U.S. at the Royal Highland Show in Scotland this past summer during the weeks of June 22- July 6. They also visited many countries throughout Europe including Scotland, England, France, Luxembourg and Germany. Prairie Central High School had the opportunity to judge cows at many stops along their trip and saw countless beautiful sights. They ended the trip with a home stay in Luxembourg. While there, they had the chance to learn about European farming from a family business. Prairie Central High School says, “They made memories for a lifetime and had a lot of fun.” The team consisted of Trent Kilgus, Samantha Ropp, Lyle Schaffer and Micah Zehr. Also attending the trip was Darren Ropp (Coach/Advisor) and his wife, Sandy.

Who’s Got Talent?While driving down the road in the car with Jake, it always seems to be a battle when it comes to the radio. This is most likely due to Jake’s different music selections and his “wonderful” singing. Sometimes he doesn’t even know all the words! Now, as the 83rd State FFA Convention quickly approaches we need your help! If you can sing, dance, play an instrument, tell jokes or have any sort of talent that FFA members would enjoy. You can perform as a solo or group ensemble; whatever is most comfortable for you. Simply send a sample of your performance along with an application. You could be selected to perform during a meal function, the FFA talent showcase or even on stage during a session. Anything will help to keep Jake from his “wonderful” singing. Your talent is the key to shining at our convention!

Top 10 Reasons to Attend the 83rd State FFA Convention: 10. Participate in exciting workshops!

9. Rub Lincoln’s nose!

8. Splash around at Knights Action Park!

7. Meet a National FFA Officer!

6. Get your groove on at the FFA Dance!

5. Elect your 2011-2012 Major State FFA Officer Team!

4. Get free stuff at the career show!

3. Listen to entertaining and motivational speakers!

2. Meet other FFA members from all over the state!

1. Have the time of your life while attending the 83rd Illinois State FFA Convention!

Attention: All Band and Chorus MembersIf you are a band or chorus member at your local high school, then the Illinois FFA Band and Chorus wants you! The members of the State FFA Band and Chorus perform on stage at State Convention and have a blast meeting other members from across the state. How can you get involved you might ask? Well all you need to do is send in an application. Throughout convention, the groups will meet, practice and then perform in front of more than 3,000 FFA members and guests!

THANk YOU to our “Directors”Our team doesn’t just end with the five of us. There are actually five more wonderful ladies who are always there to help the officers. Whether they are keeping the officers up to date on schedules, sending out mailings, making phone calls, or helping put together materials for workshops, the work that these ladies do is very important to the Illinois FFA.

John, Jake, Morgan, Cody and Jeffrey truly appreciate all the work they do throughout the year for this organization. The officers would like to thank them for their countless hours at the office, teaching us how to use the office machines and making our state officer year a little less stressful. Thank you so much for the continuous help and support throughout our year. We appreciate it more than you will ever know!

L-R: Lyle Shaffer, Trent Kilgus, Darren Ropp, Sam Ropp and Micah Zehr

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We have all been hesitant when starting something new. Whether it’s joining a new club at your school or even the FFA. I remember when I was signing up for my freshman year classes and decided to take “Introduction to Agriculture”. I chose that class for many reasons; I lived on a farm and my parents encouraged me to take the class, and secondly, I had a sister in FFA who was also enrolled in agriculture classes. Now those are just a few reasons, but believe me there were many more!

Getting started was a struggle for me. I was unsure of what my friends would think of me and what others would say. After my first day in the class my older sister Megan, who many of you may know, asked how I liked it so far. I just told her, “It’s OK.” She then told me about the FFA creed speaking contest and encouraged me to compete in it. Megan also offered to help me. Now Megan usually never said much of anything to me; she usually was busy with her own school activities. So when she said she would help me prepare for the creed, I was excited. I saw how she had grown as a person through the FFA. I then told her I would participate in the creed speaking contest. Each week I would practice saying the creed for Megan and improve myself for the competition coming closer.

After competing and going to state in the Creed Speaking competition, I realized something that I never would have realized. My older sister inspired me to get involved and showed me that this FFA organization has blessed me with great leadership, better knowledge about Agriculture, and the guidance down a great path of amazing opportunities. I commend Megan and thank her for the guidance and encouragement she gave me when I was hesitant to join FFA.

Not only has Megan been an inspiration to me but my grandmother has as well. My grandma Carolyn was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma Cancer this year. Each day I would call home and ask how grandma was doing. They would tell me each time how she was feeling and how the chemo treatment was going. My grandma’s attitude toward her cancer never changed the way she lives her life. It was then that she showed me that anyone can take whatever life throws at them and learn from it in some way or another. FFA has shown me similar obstacles. Sometimes we are afraid to try new things, whether it’s a new CDE contest or if it’s like my grandma trying a new treatment for her cancer. Each of us will face challenges, but don’t change your attitude and keep stepping up to try new things just as Megan and my Grandma have taught me to keep a positive attitude and don’t be afraid.

Serving as your State FFA Reporter is a great honor. This opportunity has opened so many new doors and has challenged me to step out of my comfort zone. This year I hope I can inspire my little sister Micah along with over 17,500 FFA members just like my sister Megan and Grandma have inspired me.

FFA members, take each opportunity this amazing organization has to offer to you. It will take you on a great journey that starts NOW, cherish each opportunity that comes your way … I know I have, now it’s your turn!

Good luck and God Bless,

Morgan Ott

Meet Morgan Ott2010-2011 State FFA Reporter

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Call to Convention Illinois FFA!

It’s time to get pumped and ready for the 83rd Annual State FFA Convention! We’ve gathered our cast and crew, brought in the best in the business, and now we’re ready to sell out the box office with our red carpet reveal of “FFA in the Spotlight”! You won’t want to miss this grand opening as thousands of blue jackets from across the state gather at the Prairie Capital Convention Center June 14-16, 2011!

Jake, Morgan, Cody, Jeff and I have worked all year to bring you this grand opening, and we know it’ll have something for everyone to enjoy. To kick off convention, we’ve got an amazing Day of Service planned to bring together members from across the state and show our dedication to community service by helping out various sites throughout the city. And after that, we’ve planned six sessions jam packed with amazing speakers, talented FFA members performing in the FFA Band and Chorus, Retiring Addresses from your 2010-2011 Major State Officers, recognition of our amazing chapters and their accomplishments throughout the year, FFA talent, and even a keynote address from one of your 2010-2011 National Officers!

When you’re not in one of these amazing sessions, be sure to head downstairs at the PCCC to check out the career show and FFA mall! And when the convention center closes its doors each night, the fun doesn’t stop there. The annual FFA dance will be held at the Illinois State Fairgrounds, and there are many other historical sites and fun entertainment for your chapter to take part in during your stay at the state capital.

Springfield is getting prepared to be flooded with the blue and gold, so pack your bags and get ready to come to the biggest event of the year. Everything else is in place, all we need is you!

In Blue & Gold,

John C. Edgar 2010-2011 State FFA President

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Officers’ Tracks

Illinois Farm Bureau Annual Meeting (Dec . 4-6) The five Major State Officers traveled to St. Louis, Mo. to attend the Illinois Farm Bureau Annual Meeting. The officers served as flag bearers during the opening session. Throughout the meeting, the officers heard from keynote speakers, watched the Young

Leader’s discussion meet, listened in on award ceremonies and attended the VIP luncheon. While in St. Louis, the officers had time to enjoy touring the city along with doing some Christmas shopping! Thank you, President Nelson and Mrs. Dale-Anderson for a great few days at the Illinois Farm Bureau Annual Meeting.

State Agronomy and Dairy Foods CDE John, Jake, Morgan, Cody and Jeff headed to Urbana to the University of Illinois for the State Agronomy and Dairy Foods CDE on December 12. At the CDE, they helped with

registration and coordinated a collection of care packages for our troops overseas. During the CDE the majors were able to see the FFA members compete in various crops, soils, weeds, milk samples,

cheeses and everything else associated with each of the two Career Development Events. Once the contest was over, the majors had a chance to visit with FFA members, which is always a great highlight of the trip!

December State Officer Meeting The five majors, along with 25 section presidents and three state staff, met in Springfield, Ill. on December 18 and 19 to hold their December State Officer Meeting. During this meeting, the officers were excited to participate in round-table discussions with the Illinois Pork Producers. Kaitlin Weitekamp also presented a workshop about the “Life of a State Officer” and another on professionalism. After the meeting concluded, the State Officer Team gathered for a Christmas Party where a good time was had by all!

International Leadership Seminar for State Officers (Jan . 3-15) John, Jake, Morgan, Cody and Jeff packed their suitcases and boarded the plane to Argentina on January 3 for an unforgettable experience! The amazing opportunity included visits to Buenos Aires, Pergamino, Rosario, Melincue, Venado Tuerto and many more cities!

http://www.indianaffa.org/

http://www.michiganffa.com/

http://www.canr.msu.edu/canrhome/

http://www.linnstate.edu/

http://www.otc.edu/

http://www.ucmo.edu/agriculture/

http://www.missouri.edu/

http://www.mofb.org/

http://www.todaysfarmermagazine.com/

http://www.facebook.com/todaysfarmer

http://twitter.com/todays_farmer

http://ag.missouristate.edu/

http://www.nwmissouri.edu/

http://orschelnfarmhome.com/

http://cafnr.missouri.edu/

http://myfcsfinancial.com/

http://okffa.org/

April 2011, FFA New Horizons

Documents

Transcript of April 2011, FFA New Horizons