Proceedings, 1999
Transcription
Proceedings, 1999
» 1 * .' A?" -._;*>; wnm r- P in i J*. MiilTii VOLUME LXXII NATIONAL FFA CONVENTION OCTOBER 1999 VOLUME LXXII signatu table of contents 100% Membership States 52 Agri-Entrepreneurship Awards 11 Agriscience Fair 16 Agriscience Student Recognition Program Excitement, anticipation and a feeling of pride was FFA members from across the country converged home of the national FFA convention. Up "FFA-Lighting in the air as at the new 16 Alumni Convention American FFA Degrees Band 57 Business show, sponsored by Fastline Louisville" fireworks is published by the National record of its FFA Auditing 76 is Associate Editors Sara Heinert, Wyoming Cara Crye, California Laura Henne, Michigan Photo Editor Kathryn Whitaker, Indiana Art Director Steve Richards, Indiana Photo Processor Adam Barbee, Ohio Shari Ladd, Michigan Teresa Cole, Wyoming Photographers Gillis 66 Career Success Activities Chapter Activities 68 Communications & Public Relations 69 FFA 70 Publications Courson, Kentucky Sam Harrel, Alaska Bud Kraft, 71 Participation 74 Distinguished Service Citations 72 77 76 75 73 3-7 40-41 62 58 14 Extemporaneous Public Speaking Contest 58-59 Foundation Sponsors 54-55 Honorary American FFA Degrees 17 H.O. Sargent Award 56 International Programs 50-51 National Chapter Awards National Officer Candidates New National Officers Official Delegates PALS Prepared Public Speaking Contest Proficiency Awards 10 78 64-65 56 12-13 22-25 Retiring Addresses Lisa Ahrens Abby Dougherty Andy Armbruster Emily Buxton Lightfoot Photography, Missouri Mike Wilson, Illinois Ed Zurga, Kansas FFA Convention Nominating Partner Development Program of Activities Convention Overview Convention Speakers Courtesy Corps Kentucky Kelly Rogers, Minnesota 67 & Personal Development Marketing & Merchandising Membership, Recruitment & National Editor J. Agricultural Education Trends Leadership in Louisville, Kentucky, October 27-30, 1999. Molly Avis, Indiana 18 60-61 20 Organization as a annual convention held 21 Chorus Committee Reports Publications. The 72nd National FFA Convention Proceedings 26-35 63 Career Development Events Career Show & Hall of States pictured on the front cover, 15 Agriscience Teacher of the Year Jose~ Santiago James Garner Stars Over America 36-37 48-49 46-47 44-45 38-39 42-43 8-9 Talent 19 VIP 53 Citations ings Billboards said Dosted it, it, hotel marquis restaurant centerpieces it and Louisvillians said it, 'Welcome to Louisville," they all echoed. "Welcome FFA!" During the week, as the 72nd National lad Signature of FFA Convention kicked Success welcome off for the time in Louisville, attendees first looked for ways to make their unique mark on the FFA-their own signature of success. to Louisville The convention proved that a geographical change did not affect the excitement and enthusiasm carried by FFA members. A silhouette of patriotism is the backdrop for National FFA To maintain a quality Talent participants. experience for members, teachers and guests, the National FFA Organization made a historical move the national FFA decision to convention from Kansas City to Louisville, after 71 years. The convention proved that a geographical change did not affect the excitement and enthusiasm carried by FFA members. The 46,918 convention attendees helped rewrite history in Louisville. An astounding number of members dressed in their official blue and gold jackets could be seen making their the way through Center for the An astounding number of blue and gold jackets could be seen making their way through the grounds of the Kentucky Fair Exposition Center during the course of the convention. & the grounds of Kentucky Fair and Exposition first time. Signature of Success All but three career development events were held onsite, headliner musical concerts raised the roof in Broadbent Arena, convention sessions in Freedom Hall housed almost show boasted 349 17,000, the career exhibitors (the largest ever) and the FFA shopping mall doubled in size! Every square foot of the Kentucky fairgrounds met an FFA member; students sent electronic postcards from computer frisbee stations, listened to convention speakers, played ri voting on the front lawn and chowed down on culinary delights. The convention hall will come to order! In a united effort, the national officers and staff call to order another year of unforgettable memories. Ricochet (photo at left) delighted the audience with their energy and musical talents in Broadbent Arena. The festivities began on Wednesday evening with "FFA-Lighting Louisville." display the lit Up A spectacular fireworks Kentucky night sky just outside of the convention fairgrounds an exciting week of to kickoff competition, friendship and education. Members carried this energy with them throughout the week. They applied their industry knowledge by competing in career development events. Students interacted with business representatives and expanded their career horizons at the national agricultural career show. Louisville tour sites, like Churchill Downs and Papa John's, experienced the impact as most set record attendance numbers. The national officer driver, Chad Little. team helped debut the John Deere Winston Cup The car was on display throughout the NASCAR week of convention. race car and the I Signature of Success UV/I IUUL DUO EMERGENCY DOOR The school bus is on the road again! This Louisville, Kentucky, location of the trip takes passengers to the new, exciting destination of 72nd National FFA Convention. full of wide-eyed members and guests pulled into the Kentucky fairgrounds not knowing what to expect. But, Louisville hospitality volunteers stood ready to greet convention attendees. With maps in hand, students and advisors turned to these hospitality volunteers for advice, directions and guidance on the new city, Vans, busses, cars and planes new new facilities, hoped to make restaurants and new activities in which to participate. Each volunteer the transition to Louisville an easy one by providing useful information about local restaurants, hotels and educational tours. As members ventured into the Kentucky Fair and Exposition Center for the first time, Some were attending the national they experienced an overwhelming sense of pride. FFA convention for the first time, while others were seasoned veterans, but a feeling of belonging enveloped students as they listened to motivational speakers and national officers. The spectacular laser shows added to the excitement of convention sessions. And, band, chorus and the nation. talent selections showcased the talents of FFA members across I Signature of Success FFA members enjoyed documenting the first national convention held in Louisville. National officers shared messages of hope, overcoming mediocrity and reaching out to others in time of need. Through leadership workshops, FFA members learned to cultivate their own signature of success by setting goals and putting a plan of action in place. On spotlight shined on model chapters, 100% membership the main arena stage, the states, proficiency finalists, public speakers, degree candidates and others as they were recognized for strengthening their state, their chapter, their community and themselves. Speakers provided students with motivation improve the quality of and inspiration to for themselves and those around them. Emory Austin told students, "Rarity is leadership of the premier kind, life where comes from." Acclaimed actor Danny Glover challenged FFA members to continue serving others for Dave Roever members teary-eyed and renewed after the benefit of the whole. left conveying his message of courage and hope for the future. National officers shared messages of hope, overcoming mediocrity and reaching out to others These students took time to relax weather on the front lawn. and enjoy the warm in times of need. The largest-ever national agricultural career show gave members insight about opportunities in colleges, businesses and most of all, the FFA. Meanwhile, the FFA shopping mall allowed members and guests to take a part of Louisville convention home and the national with them. FFA I Signature of Success Beyond their and the convention sessions FFA members activities, mark on the Louisville More as well. chose to make community than 700 second-, third- and fourth-graders participated mentoring activity with in a FFA members. Youngsters learned about the vital role of agriculture and participated in team-build- ing and personal growth activities. State from around the country educated officers County classrooms students in Jefferson about the important role of agriculture in everyone's lives. FFA's commitment to community also resulted in chapters from states pairing all 50 with local schools and Kentucky Harvest to help feed Louisville for a day by collecting 15 tons of donated food. The national FFA convention theme, "FFA-Signature of Success," encouraged members to take the experiences energy gained their local at the Money rains down on the arena in celebration of the $7.3 FFA and agricultural education programs million raised for and scholarships. and convention back to communities and instill a fresh perspective in their programs. While learning about the fundamentals of agriculture, members the fundamentals of also learned about life: hard work, business management, effective communication skills, teamwork, integrity and problem-solving. In an age where the media deliver story after story of school shootings, this inaugural Louisville convention celebrated what's truly right with today's youth. FFA members to give back members to local striving to ready and willing communities. make FFA to maintaining and sustaining America's foundationagriculture. FFA members left the convention inspired to return to their chapters with a new purpose-to better themselves and their communities with their own A desire members to develop their career to Louisville. They skills brought these participated in the FFA Meats Evaluation and Technology Career Development Event. difference in the lives of others. members committed FFA a positive signature of success. stars over america With hearts racing, the eight finalists stars q AMERIC of the Stars Over America contest eagerly awaited the announcement of their names. They would soon know the outcome of one of the most prestigious awards in the FFA. The students had already gathered years of valuable work experience, gone through rigorous rounds of interviews and inspections of record books, as well as conducted filming visits to their businesses and farming operations. As finalists $1 .000. The were introduced on stage, they were awarded my national winners received an additional $1 ,000. Parents of the finalists were each presented with the Honorary American FFA Degree to recognize their contributions to their children's success. American Star Farmer Michael Springer and Stars Over America Film sponsored by the Farm Service Agency, United States Department of Agriculture and the General Fund of the National FFA Foundation. Cash awards for the national finalists and winners are sponsored by the executive sponsors of the National FFA Foundation. is Franklin FFA Chapter Harris managed a herd of more him than selling the property to finance equipment sales operation. He Over eleven years ago. Springer support of his parents. moved he a farrowing parts with sales stretching over By 1995, his calf herd went from 15 to 99. That same year combines and heads, used tractors started a 15-calf bottle operation with the financial currently sells equipment including states and 24 and internationally. Aside from buying and selling equipment he into pork production, building house and nursery and established a 36-sow herd. He purchased 230 acres and farm equipment to increase the value of his operation. In cooperation designs, builds, tests and markets his with his father and grandfather, he plans own to line of planters. Agribusiness Jay Harris proudly Independence, Kansas Neodesha FFA Chapter 2,100 hogs on land that his grandfather left in Michael Springer, 21 Jay Harris, 22 Alexander, Illinois his American Star display their hard-earned awards. He currently employs four part-time mechanics and expand finish the farm to 2,000 farrow-to- sows and 6,000 acres of cropland. a truck driver. Astonishment, excitement and disbelief were written all named the over Michael Springer's face as he was American Star Farmer. star in agribusiness finalists Weber, 21 Texas Pilot Point FFA Chapter Jeff Kyle Bailey, 22 Middlesburg, Indiana Fairfield FFA Chapter Charles Hale, 20 was the youngest ever graduate of Kentucky Horseshoeing Hale started with a small cow/calf Weber acquired operation and one riding lawn mower. freshman to purchase equipment to School. Following a two-year During the next year, he financed a new cut and bale hay to feed his apprenticeship, he started building up tractor, loader, post driver, At Sterling, Sterling 14. Bailey his own clientele than 400 horses. Oklahoma Pilot Point, FFA Chapter and welder and began custom spraying. He Hale current research reports, farrier publica- is certified in Restricted Pesticide application and is own cattle herd. Seeing opportunity, he began box blade and today shoes more reads and studies a small loan as a contracting his services to fanners and now employes Use future, a certified five people. In the Weber hopes to expand his pipeline welder. Hale estimates business in custom and hay brokerage Bailey relies on modern technology, spraying over 35,000 acres in 1999. in using video and computer equipment, Future aspirations include operating a tions to and attends technical seminars. diagnose and A firm treat believer in equine lameness. community support, full-service North Central Texas. farm center or securing a position with a top chemical company. he regularly speaks to children's groups on the importance of proper shoeing. amencan farmer finalists Brad Baumgardt, 21 Justin Jordahl, 21 Erika Kenner, 21 Sleepy Eye, Minnesota Alden, Iowa Leeds, North Dakota Iowa Falls-Alden FFA Chapter Leeds At 15, Jordahl secured some financial Kenner purchased her first heifer in fifth grade with a loan from her grandfather. From that first heifer she expanded to a Sleepy Eye As FFA Chapter a freshman, Baumgardt rented 160 acres of land from his father producing corn and soybeans. He then increased support from his grandmother and renovated an unoccupied hog barn at FFA Chapter home. He then contracted pigs from a local farmer and began finishing the herd of heifers, purchased her purchased a semi-trailer for hauling hogs. His expansion continued with the and diversified her operation grain and livestock. In addition, he construction of four began finishing hogs, a business that confinement hog has grown to finishing learned the importance of maintaining She has also experimented with embryo the health of his animals and the transfer to increase the quality of her the capacity of his land to expanded from crops hogs at 480 acres, to livestock 1 and ,000 head of a time. In the past year, he purchased 1 66 acres and became a 1 money and enabling him Baumgardt Family Farms, his investments. His him to capitalize on His future plans include future plans involve expanding the operating a farrow-to-finish hog enter- family farm and marketing manure prise from his swine operation as fertilizer. and farming 1 show to a variety wheat, canola, sunflowers and flax. Jordahl, has efficiency of his buildings, saving first trained for of crops. Her crops include durum, ,200-head units. partner with 40 percent ownership of Inc. Morgan horse which she ,600 acres of land. herd and started advertising her cattle to familiarize herself with the promotion side of the industry. I national officer candidates National Officer Candidates reception sponsored Jamie Shay Jones. Billingsley ARKANSAS: Samantha Easley. Emerson Clint Wedel. Burlington CONNECTICUT: FLORIDA: and knowledge through oral Woodbury Vitelli. Plant City Carol Lea Spruill. Jackson County IDAHO: Laban Molsee, Deary ILLINOIS: Hams. Jay Franklin INDIANA: Jodee Ruppel. Manchester KANSAS: Leslie Small. Arkansas City KENTUCKY: 1999-2000. These candidates displayed their outstanding talents, Erin Sepe. Chris GEORGIA: of 36 candidates competed for the six national officer spots for Inc. ALABAMA: COLORADO: A total byABG, MAINE: Matthew Ingram, Bath County McCrum, Mars Nicholas Hill abilities MICHIGAN: and written interviews and exams. Lori Preston, Branch Area Career Center MINNESOTA: Kara Elizabeth Ladlie. Albert Lea MISSISSIPPI: Courtney Scoggin, Newton Municipal Becoming a national thousands of members FFA officer is FFA members. Only a dream MISSOURI: for six outstanding are chosen each year. Thirty-six candidates earned their American as their states' FFA Degree and were chosen one candidate for a national office. Travis Lathrop. Nevada MONTANA: Jason Jimmerson, Conrad NORTH CAROLINA: Sara Lane, Bartlett Yancey NEVADA: Davida RaeAnn Nash, Silver Sage rounds with the nominating committee, which NEW HAMPSHIRE: Elizabeth Kaiser, Pinkerton NEW MEXICO: Marshall Baker, Texico NEW YORK: Katie Lynn Bear, Greenville chooses the six national officers. NORTH DAKOTA: Convention week kept the candidates active with a written exam, a writing exercise and six interview OHIO: The suspense ended Saturday afternoon when the national officer nominating committee submitted convention session. The their report to the convention floor erupted with enthusiasm one, the names of the new officers as, one by were announced. OKLAHOMA: will spend the next year, visiting each as well as Japan. We praise these members state for III, Turtle Lake-Mercer Joshua Chad Brecheen, Coalgate PENNSYLVANIA: Herb Hoffeditz, Conococheague SOUTH CAROLINA: Kimberly Green, Manning SOUTH DAKOTA: Tiffany Anderson, Lemmon TENNESSEE: The team William White Joseph Shultz, Indian Lake TEXAS: Karen Lynn Adams, South Greene Brandon UTAH: Rodney Hill, Martin Spencer, Morgan serving their state organizations and congratulate them on a job well done. VIRGINIA: Johnny WASHINGTON: WISCONSIN: Davis. Atlee Nathan Hahner, Liberty Nathan Russell, Shullsburg WEST VIRGINIA: Roger Hanshaw, Clay WYOMING: Traci Walton, Star Valley County . entrepreneurship Joseph Bachman of Metamora, IL, owns Bachman's Craft Making, a business in which he produces and markets five wood birdhouse bench, a crafts including a Larrie Faulkner He Montana Worm Farm by created the flat his own worms down compost started his business by selling to friends and neighbors. He then expanded into flea markets and craft shows and now his work is consigned to craft shows that sell his product for a commission. raising He night crawlers for fishing. since expanded to raising bench, wheelbarrow planters, butterfly houses and birdhouses. Gap, MT. began of Judith a partnership during his freshman year that to has break as a source of fertilizers. With a grant from the Alternative Resources Energy Organization he has been able to purchase red wigglers for composting, offer household and yard waste collection and solid and liquid organic fertilizers. Chris Blaser of Green Bay, WI, owns a market gardening company that produces Dustin vegetables, fruits and syrup throughout the business that supplies summer months local Green Bay area. and advertising available. if an ample supply of product is Kauffman Center for Entrepreneurial at the Ewing Marion Kauffman detailed records, prices and other pertinent information on each ship awards. Sponsored by and in partnership with trailers for safety Cecilia Carreno of Lompoc, CA, owns due volume He keeps farm bulletins. in areas. trailers 1 1 potentially selling at farmers' markets five business savvy were honored the community and surrounding His business has grown from plans to increase his a utility trailers to the to a reasonable price, a large sales days a week entreprenur- He AL, owns of Opelika, business by expanding to market outlets and Students with self-motivation, determination and at the for sale at markets in the Murphy economical to trailer, inspects and has found buy it all more trailers in a large quantity Leadership Cecilia's Flowers, a business she started her Foundation as a special project of the National FEA Foundation. Sponsored by and in partnership with the Kauffman Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership at the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation. Self-initiative, determination and dedication are inherent qualities visibly recognized in the nine FFA members receiving an AgriEntrepreneurship Award. As entrepreneurs, these nine finalists have successfully laid the ground- work and set a precedent for fellow members through personal commitment of starting their own enterprise. For their accomplishments, the were awarded finalists at the fifth freshman year due to an poinsettias, caring for and selling the poinsettias to school employees at Christmas. Her busi- Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership presented each winner start of his Point, own NE, Go, to offer low sodium and sugar a la carte A' la Heart Meals to entrees to people with special needs as adding corsages, bouquets arrangements to her product throughout the community. Through and research, he concluded that quick, healthy line. meals are not available Adam Hahn Hay and He of Cambria, WI, owns Hahn's Service, which provides quality grass alfalfa is business: advertising, packaging and delivery as well hay for local area horse owners. motivating him to The meals test in his community, and modify recipes. will be prepared on a pre-ordered basis and delivered to the client. realized the potential for this business with the increasing number of ranchettes and the local Amish community. His customer Ryan Sweeney of Mason, MI, founded RPS Enterprises, a fabrication company base has expanded to include the Chicago specializing in building livestock equipment. Zoo, the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, the Green Lake County He began in 1997 building blocking chutes, and now builds sheep stands, displays for Highway Department and show others due to his cattle, calving gates marketing strategies utilizing business cards, handling conventional ads and the Internet. trade facilities shows and custom and hog gates. He attends to increase sales and has learned about marketing products, creating budgets proprietor of Sequoia is the sole and keeping accurate financial records. Crop Consulting providing field scouting services to growers. Deanna Thies Services include crop maturation, laboratory Veggie Patch, a analysis, insect pest with a plaque and a check for planning the cholesterol, Tracy Hanger of Chandler, AZ, Strom of the Kauffman David Schroeder of West ness has since expanded with knowledge of convention session. Dr. Robert be successful. interest in floral She began by purchasing crops. to management, biological Hanger of Glasgow, fruit MO. owns The and vegetable business that includes several specialty varieties of control of pest and defoliation. squash, tomatoes and okra. catering to her $1 ,000. In addition, each advisor developed an extensive business and target market, the local received a check for $500 with marketing plan that outlines her goals for the She markets her product which company over farmer markets five days a week, advertises to in their promote entrepreneurship chapters. The Agri- Entrepreneurship Education Program is a joint activity of the National FFA Organization, the U.S. Department of Education and the National FFA Foundation. major the next five years. Hanger's selling point that sets her aside other crop consulting businesses control is from biological in a local station. Asian community. at magazine and on a She has expanded perennial plant production, gourds. one of two local local radio into cut flowers, pumpkins and prepared public speaking Sponsored by FMC Corporation, Agricultural Products Group. anything safe to eat? is National Prepared Public Speaking Winner: Elio Chiarelli, Picture this. Prepared public speaking Parkinson HG FFA Chapter It is a Sunday and you and your family decide to go out for an evening national winner, Elio Chiarelli.Jr. of the night, Pennsylvania Jr., A new meal. in all-you-can-eat opened a few miles away. Just audiences with knowledge like the speech entitled, "Is Anything Safe to people in decide to your community, you test the Upon your new arrival, cuisine. you are A national is finalist in prepared public speaking not the only person that can recite his or her speech word for word. al instructor, sister the family Mom, dad, agricultur- dog and a brother or heard that speech so many times they it together as a chorus. you notice the clean and sanitary environment, which is expected from a contain Except for a few problems to beef recall in the state Washington, the in that mind, such as a ground of found listeria Oscar Mayer meats, or the new every three chickens contains salmonella. When all is said and done, you look down at your empty plate and begin to establishment. After your ask yourself, "Is anything safe drinks are served, you are to eat?" asked could recite As you look around the restaurant, for this all discovery that stated one out of seated by fast, courteous servers. to the "real" food. evening's buffet come hundreds of other Eat?" move on The main dishes meat. That's fine, right? buffet restaurant recently Pennsylvania, impressed in his about the salad section and to help yourself to the A task buffet. force of the Council for Agriculture Science The time and commitment of the speaker can start up to a year prior to nationals, a path beginning at the local level, continuing through to district, state and then the final The journey and knowledge destination, national convention. is long, but the benefits acquired are plentiful. The finalists dedicated countless hours of research, practice and constructive criticism to writing and learning a six to eight minute speech about an agriculturally related topic. Hungry, you and your family Technology, a private pick up a plate and decide to organization of food science begin with a salad, but there are groups, estimates that each year a few problems. for the lettuce, As you reach you cannot help 6.5 to 33 million cases of food-borne illness occur in the but think of last night's United States and 9,000 people While many reported shocking news report about the die. amount of pesticide residue cases from food prepared by found within a head of commercial or lettuce. institutional As your stomach turns, you move ahead. You are now at establishments, sporadic cases the condiments section of the are considered far salad line and notice those common. nutritious alfalfa sprouts that awareness of food safety everyone says are so good for food industry and then inform consumers about how After speaking, each finalist entertained a you. However, before you five-minute question and answer period with indulge in a plate the judges. you remember that more than twenty thousand people in North America alone contracted salmonella from full of seed sprouts, eating contaminated alfalfa sprouts. Finally, you forget in homes more and small outbreaks If we increase the to in the handle food safely, the risk can be greatly reduced. society, must We as a realize that food can make you sick, but nothing to fear know the facts! if it is you simply . . become safety supply has even global, with many dif- ferent countries supplying food products to the United We States. can more food being prepared relate to all and consumed away from home. The U.S. Department I of Agriculture estimates that consumers spend 43 cents of every food dollar eating out. In addition, an increasing home amount of food prepared away from the then packaged for later consumption, thus is new creating opportunities for mishandling. Finally, adding to the challenge, microorganisms continue to adapt and evolve, often increasing their degree of resistance. What the public should under- stand is food safety does that separate from other foods, 3. Wash working 4. safety circle. An your own health and nutrition, environmental protection, water Cook quality, internal temperature of at when you 5. hot foods hot and also Gleaming counters and history of protecting the public immediately or discard. unsafe food so that you and your families' safety will helps, but I In a perfect food safety world, new none of the problems the nearby supermarket, or simply that have mentioned would I exist, happening am is Science and Technology said, more than "The zero also cal depends on safe food practices. Right may enemy all your home. ready to strike in That enemy called bacteria is is not possible and Notes 1 will eliminate pathogens or toxins from the 2 Anler. John. (1999, February 29). Webb. Tom. (1998. March it can be very harmful or even deadly. Even though consumers cannot officials see, smell or taste this bacteria, millions food safety and public health of strands can be invading food recognized, that everyone line], Available: Human in the who prepared the products, must be observant in knives and other utensils. controlling food hazards. Fortunately, consumers have A to fight bacteria keep foods safe. A few recommended ways and of the to ensure safe food include: 1 Refrigerate or freeze food at or below 40 degrees, 2. Keep raw meat and poultry 13. ( 1999. February 2). A Universal Concern. [On- Food Safety Guidelines. Can [On- http://fightbac.org/probIein/ushealth/indexJitml. Available: Available: 9 1999. January 15). ( The Panhandler. Health. (1999 January 15). h(tp://www.geocitics.com/RainForest 124f,/ ; Webb http://www.foodsci.unl.edu/foodsalety facts/index.html. 22. 10 United States Public Health and Services. (1999 March 15). Food Safety Guidelines. [On- people products, kitchen surfaces, power and DAIRY. Department of Food and Agricultural Science. (1999, April 20). Food Facts. [On-line]. 8 line], Available: 11 the FARM Services System Department of Services. (1999. January 15). The Environmental Health Department of Algoma [On-line |. food system, from producers to 10 eat' against Salmonella. Philadelphia Inquirer, p. 21. Your Kitchen Pass the Food Safety Test? [On-line), Available; http://www.nalusda.gov/fnic.html. 7 have already SAFE anything htlp://www foodsci unl.edu/foodsafety/iDdexaltml. Nebraska Health and 5 council's report stresses what [s New Weapon 4 Department of Food and Agricultural Science. line], Available: food chain." Further, the 20). 3 Anter 13. 6 United States Public Health and Services and "Is risk of microbiologi- hazards no one method now, there be an invisible you should never be asking yourself, remote. In fact, kitchens, one that relies on it at open your own the Council for Agricultural speaking of the truly clean just looks; refrigerator, visit the few miles away, purchase groceries restaurant a anything safe to eat?" but the possibility of this neatly arranged cupboards? all from unwholesome and refrigerate leftovers be ensured. So, the next time you decide to floors? Spotless stainless steel Yes, that Keep think of a clean kitchen? Shiny polished sinks? many organizations ensure the we consume each day are not only safe but healthy. Many agencies have over a 90-year products mind to and recycling as the most important public Fortunately, issue. 140 degrees, and kitchen. For example, what comes foods thoroughly to an least area that must is food safety has surpassed crime prevention, fact, of the largest roles in the food be placed under scrutiny must accept it: American consumers are becoming more concerned about their food and its safety. In food products, The inspectors alone. We hands after touching any not rely on the producers and consumers themselves have one surfaces and problem occurs when http://www fighthack.org/problem/ushealth/index.html. Anter 14. Bibliography Anter, John. (1999. February 29). Is anything Begin fight against E.coli at the farm. Blitt, Peggy SAFE March (1999. FARM and DAIRY. FARM and DAIRY, 22. to eat? 4). 13. (1997. March 10). There will be a growing emphasis on food safety. Hoard's Dairyman. 167. Food consumers do not always take Department of Food and Agricultural Science. (1999. April wash hands and utensils or thaw meat properly. Emerging pathogens are demanding greater food safety vigilance than was required in previous generations. To expand the problem, the food Environmental Health Department of Algoma Health Unit. (1999 January 29). Facts. [On-line], Available: http://www.foodsci.unl edu/foodsalely facts/index. html the time to [On-line], Available: The Panhandler. http://www.gcocilics.com/RainForest/1246/. Hillgreen, Sonja. (1997. January). Klintberg, Patricia. (1998. August). Nebraska Health and 15). Human We gotta Food is tell our story Farm Journal. 56. cleaner than you think Farm Journal. 16 - 17. Services System Department of Services. (1999. January 15). Can Your Kitchen Pass The Food Safety Test. [On-line], Available: http://www.nalusda.gov/fnic.html. United States Department of Agriculture. (1997). Office of Communication. Agricultural Facts book 1997. Chapter 9 Washington: GPO. United States Public Health and Services. (1999, January 15). Food Safety Guidelines. line], Available: [On- http://l1ghtbac.org/problcm/iishcalth/index.html. Webb, Tom. (1999, March 20). New Weapon against Salmonella. prepared public speaking Philadelphia Inquirer, p. 21 The on ability to think quickly Robyn Sites of Oklahoma their feet, wealth of knowledge on various attain a pleased the audience with and agriculturally related topics her quick remarkable speaking prime skills, are characteristics for the thinking and oration abilities extemporaneous as she public speaking participants. walked away with title the of national extemporaneous This year's and traveled traits possessed finalists compete here far to Louisville for the national contestant of these all public speaking winner. in Each title. was given 30 minutes to prepare a four to six minute speech on a randomly drawn agriculture Extemporaneous Public Speaking Winner: Oklahoma National Robyn topic. Sites, Sponsored by American Farm Bureau Federation extemporaneous public speaking The topic that I have chosen today labeling foods concerning origin. In his speeches GMO's and on his is the effect of web learned that traces of it could be found in his line, It hit today. late reacted with the In 1998. 25 percent of corn, cotton in the United States ago 38 was genetical- modified. Everything from soft drinks ly you ordered that the offending ingredient be removed tains corn or soybeans immediately. ly Just as we remember eat for breakfast conthat are genetical- leave their home because the industry where they worked was being shut down. The cotton industry was being reduced in the United States because of consumers buying clothes from other countries. "The touch, the feel of cotton" spurred the United States to support their nation. We are hoping the pen when modified organisms. the touching stories 1990's of a family having to in the early percent of soybeans and 45 percent of to the cereal fear and revulsion, as genetical- store shelves almost five years do most Britons. He same first modified crop, introduced by Monsanto, was the Flavor Saver Tomato. site, the would never eat the stuff and would not allow it to be grown on his land. Former Beatle Paul McCartney, when he Prince of Wales declares he wife Lynda's vegetarian food placed into a tomato. The ly and points of we same thing will hap- begin to label genetically modified organisms. British tabloids how on now to avoid feeding the stuff to And, vandalism often occurs is Monsanto, who provide an advice column grown. Indeed, not only where in Britain, it we GMO's, says are headed into a green revolution. Already, but the leader of genetical- modified organisms, or ly your pets. in the fields is GMO's have reduced the cost of The United States has always been they believe that the United States Department of Agriculture, the Food and throughout Europe, widespread resistance has production for our farmers and improved occurred to any imported food-an action that could our yields. Fanners no longer have to Drug Administration, have provoke a major trade war with the United worry about as much pesticides and her- nology States. bicides, because these plants already con- However, if refer to as "Franken-food" or genetically you live on this side of the pond, you may be dimly aware of what the British tabloids modified organisms. And, chances are, for breakfast or some will for lunch, A and definitely have have some for major revolution has occurred in the American food supply. For many years, due to we have been able to cross trace from make them higher quality and provide technology, plants to more we food value. are now and place it However, due to gene ing more enabled to avoid apply- splicing, in order to look and determine if at the right tech- these crops they are affecting our consumption. The European Union has a pesticides. However, widespread criticism has occurred in environment and are healthy for human more that even you today may have had some dinner. tain the nutrients more up-to-date on the technology, because the United States resistant side, just faced the and because they have "mad cow" disease and lysteria. throughout the European Union, ranging from human health, environmental issues, trade sanctions and whether genetically modified organisms should be labeled also with their point of origin. According to the United States The number one rule in agriculture is, "The consumer is always right." The second rule is, if you don't believe the first rule, you'd better look again. The consumer determines what is being used. Genetically modified organisms must be able to take a gene from one organism Department of Agriculture, the U.S. into another. begin long-term studies of genetically looked modified organisms, because the for will Therefore, a gene from a cat could be placed into a European Union has now passed a de dog, or a gene from a sole bacterium could be facto moratorium crops. on all imported GMO at and determined human consumption. issue should be arms they are safe believe this met with not only open but, with at least, an Thank you. if I open mind. I agriscience I student recognition program national finalists: Dustin McDonald Gait FFA Chapter, Acampo. CA Advisor: Cheryl Reece Jacob Rudnick Kern Valley FFA Chapter, Onyx. CA Advisor: Gerald Wenstrand William Dukes Lake Butler Lake Sr. Butler, Advisors: Tom Charlotte FFA FL Chapter, Shaundra Schaff. agriscience student of the year, agriculture instructor as finalist Paul Wichmann is congratulated by her of Minnesota looks on. Williams, Emerson & David Harris Sponsored by Monsanto and the Carl Clark National Algona FFA Chapter, Algona, IA FFA Foundation General Fund Advisor: Brad Greiman Paul Wichmann Shaundra Schaff, of Absarokee, Montana, was Pelican Rapids FFA Chapter. Dent. MN honored as national winner FFA Agriscience in the Advisor: Bill Januszewski Student Recognition Program. Schaff "s project was entitled "Biological Control of Shaundra Schaff Absarokee FFA Chapter, Advisor: Fishtail. MT Euphorbia esula a Noxious Weed." The purpose of Schaff s study was Tim Zumbrun to investigate biological controls of leafy spurge and the various delivery systems Brock Howell Prosser FFA Chapter, Prosser, WA to administer the control. Advisors: Stewart Padelford, Todd Dezzellum & Rick Adams Schaff received $5,000 Jeana Little in cash scholarships and a plaque for her achievements. Schaff Sumner FFA Chapter, Sumner. Advisors: Greg Pile & WA the Absarokee Rusty Finch FFA Chapter and is a is member of Tim advised by Zumbrun. Wichmann This year's national runner-up was Paul of Dent, Minnesota. His project involved analyzing Mfim t *t - ** ml it -'fir —J methods of soil aerification relieve soil compaction and bulk density while on golf courses to increasing water infiltration and encouraging root development. Wichmann received $3,000 scholarships and a plaque. of the Pelican Rapids by Hi ."ST" 11 Runner-up, Paul Wichmann Dougherty. is congratulated by He analyzed methods of for the competition. Abby soil aerification Bill Januszewski. Wichmann is FFA Chapter and a is in cash member advised teacher of the year Sponsored by Ford Motor Company Fund and Potash Corporation of Saskatchewan Inc. Sponsored by Ford Motor Company Fund and Caterpillar Agricultural Products Inc. agriscience teacher of the year agriscience The Agriscience National Winner: Stacy Byrd, Eagle's Landing FFA Chapter, GA McDonough, fair Fair allowed students to compete in science-based projects in four divisions: division I (7-9th Dr. Ralph Lynch, Principal grade), division National Finalists: grade) and division IV (team, 10-12th grade). Each winning Robert Actis, Sierra FFA Chapter, Tollhouse. CA (10-12th grade), division participant receives either a cash Mr. Doug Jones, Principal Mary Parton. Kennedy FFA Chapter, North Miami Beach, FL Ms. Kay Mikulas, Principal Brian Hendrickson Montello FFA Chapter, Montello, WI Mr. James Halberg, Principal Stacy Byrd beams with excitement after II being named, Agriscience Teacher of the Year. Byrd, a III (team, 7-9th award or scholarship. All award on the main arena division winners are presented their stage during national convention sessions. each division are: The categories in Biochemistry/Microbiology/Food Science, Botany, Engineering, Environmental Science and Zoology. The Agriscience Fair allows students to compete in science-based projects in four divisions. Each winning participant receives either an The award or a scholarship. categories in each division include Biochemistry /Microbiology/Food Science, Botany, Georgia instructor, is congratulated by Engineering, Environmental Science and Zoology. Abby Dougherty. WINNERS INCLUDE: Category: Biochemistry/Microbiology/Food Science Division I: Greg Striemer, Lake Park Audobon FFA Chapter. Minnesota Stacy Byrd's ingenious approach to teaching modern technology received national recognition National FFA Convention 1999 at the with the honor of Agriscience Teacher of the Year. Byrd, agriscience educator and advisor at FFA Eagle's Landing High School in East Point, Georgia, earned a $1 ,500 cash award and a plague recognizing her exemplary teaching commitment and endless desire to skills. implement high-tech, school earned her the opportunity to design and build a facility at Category: Botany Division Division Byrd's diversified agriscience curriculum in her former high new program and Division II: Todd Wilt, Jefferson FFA Chapter, West Virginia Division IV: Debra Smith and Lisa Sanderson, Sumner FFA Chapter, Washington Division I: II III: Chapter, Oklahoma Division IV: Molly Klassen and Louie Larson, Benson in small water, chemistry, horticulture, food science, entomology and general sciences. Since Byrd's arrival, Eagle's in three their intention to place agriscience programs other county high schools. The Agriscience Teacher of the Year program recognizes outstanding agricultural education instructors emphasize agriscience technology through programs Minnesota Division III: Eric Davis and Steven Lay, Judson FFA Chapter, Texas Division IV: Elaine Pearson and Michelle Griffith, Sumner FFA Chapter, Washington has increased to 130, and administrators have demonstrated their support by announcing Chapter, Category: Engineering Division I: Ken Smith, Fallbrook FFA Chapter, California Division II: Grant Streimer, Lake Park Audobon FFA Chapter. animal care, aquaculture, animal anatomy, physiology and FFA membership FFA Minnesota Eagle's Landing. Byrd's agriscience program includes instruction Landing Tony Heldorfer, North Kossuth FFA Chapter, Iowa Paul Wichmann, Pelican Rapids FFA Chapter, Minnesota Brian Collins and Jacob Gordon, Burlington FFA in biological, who in their curricula environmental and agribusiness technologies, and engineering sciences. Category: Environmental Science Division I: Bryan Tomm, Delavan Division Division II: III: Division IV: FFA Chapter, Illinois Brooke Findley, West Central FFA Chapter, Iowa Valerie Smythe and Erick Carlson, Middletown FFA Chapter, Delaware Jim Self and Emily Robertson, Childress FFA Chapter, Texas Category: Zoology Karese Metzler, Fallbrook FFA Chapter, California Division I: Division II: Nicole Allen, Lake Crystal FFA Chapter, Minnesota Division III: Maria Chauncey and Danielle Kertzman, Rapid City FFA Chapter, South Dakota Division IV: Jessica Geistweidt and Jason Potthoff H. Isargent awards •j Sponsored by Merial -O. Sargent non-member National Recipients: ARIZONA: James A. Knight, Associate Professor of Agriculture Education, Tucson FLORIDA: Eva Griffin, Parent Educator, Malone The H.O. Sargent Award is given to individuals who exemplify creating diversity. Back Row: David Frazier, Eva Griffin, James Knight, Graze Page, Jessica Skinner, Angela Rose Guidry and Jane Calloway of Merial sponsors. Front Row: Amanda Dahkhoff. Dr. H.O. Sargent was a pioneer in founding New with the FFA 1965. Sargent's efforts began in 1928 with the in New Farmers of Virginia. The idea spread southern states, prompting the birth of the in New C. Frazier, Snyder H.O. Sargent Farmers of America, an organization for African-American students that merged creation of the TEXAS: David member National Finalists: INDIANA: Angela to other Farmers of America Central R. Guidry. Triton FFA, Fairland 1931. MINNESOTA: Amanda The H.O. Sargent award carries the dream of creating new opportunities in premier leadership, personal growth and career NORTH CAROLINA: success in agriculture. In 1995, the organization began to honor both members and adults across the country diversity in agricultural education who work to Dahlhoff, Murray County Central, Slayton South Jessica Skinner, Rowan FFA, China Grove promote and the FFA. TENNESSEE: Grace E. Page, Dyer County FFA, Newbern This year's student winner was Jessica Skinner of the South FFA Chapter tutoring in Rowan China Grove, North Carolina Skinner organized a program for students with limited English speaking called English for Students of Other skills, Languages (ESOL). More than 25 volunteers have committed one hour each week to work with these students. The program has prompted to start a similar the high school principal program. Adult recipients, Dr. James Knight, Eva Griffin and David Frazier received a plaque and national recognition during the session. Knight, of Tucson, Arizona, has directed or co-directed a dozen projects on diversified recruitment and retention of students in non-traditional areas. Griffin, of Malone, Florida, has helped increase minority enrollment in the FFA chapter by four times and expanded the chapter's membership as a whole. As the Snyder FFA Chapter Advisor and agriculture teacher in New Mexico, David Frazier helped develop programs to involve minority, at-risk and special-needs students in his FFA chapter. ^ Jessica Skinner shows her excitement dent H.O. Sargent award winner. after being named the stu- development Horse Evaluation Dairy Foods Years of study, training and Sponsored by Dairy Famers practice paid off for the Inc., winners of the National Career of America, and Dairy Management, Inc. Winning Team: LaVernia FFA Development Events. Teams from across the United States Chapter. LaVernia. Texas competed Reeves. LaVernia honors for top in event areas from forestry to High Individual: Rebecca FFA Chapter, LaVernia, Texas Sponsored by DaimlerChrysler Corporation Fund-Dodge Trucks; and Manna Pro Corporation, "The Calf Manna* Company" Winning Team: Arroyo Grande FFA Chapter, Arroyo Grande. Calif. High Individual: Alaina agricultural mechanics. FFA McBride. Arroyo Grande Environment and Natural Participants evaluated, Chapter, Arroyo Grande, Calif. Resources identified, analyzed, tasted, and sniffed, repaired calculated-all in hopes of achieving top honors. Sponsored by Michelin North America, Inc., and Mississippi Chemical Livestock Evaluation Corporation Sponsored by Purina Mills, Inc. Winning Team: South Rowan Winning Team: Crater FFA Chapter, Central Point, Ore. Chapter, China Grove, N.C. High Individual: Brent England. The results of each event were announced at sponsor-hosted award banquets at the end of the week. During Saturday afternoon's session, the high team and individuals took the stage to receive recognition for achievements. their FFA Crossville High Individual: Bear River Chapter. FFA FFA Julie Miles, Chapter, Grass Crossville, Tenn. Valley, Calif. Extemporaneous Public Speaking Marketing Plan Sponsored by American Farm Bureau Sponsored by Rhone-Poulenc Ag Federation Company High Individual: Robyn Sites, Mountain View-Gotebo FFA Chapter, Battle Lake, Minn. Winning Team: Battle Lake FFA Chapter, Mountain View, Okla. Meats Evaluation and Technology Farm Business Management Agricultural Issues Forum Sponsored by Elanco Animal Health, Division of Eli Lilly A and Company Winning Team: Ritzville Sponsored by Excel Corporation; Hormel Foods Corporation; and Oscar Mayer Sponsored by John Deere Division, Kraft Winning Team: Vale FFA Chapter. Vale, Ore. FFA Chapter. Ritzville. Wash. Chapter, Clovis, Calif. High Individual: Chris Culver, Fruitland FFA Foods, Inc Winning Team: Clovis FFA Chapter, Fruitland. High Individual: Jeremy Uhrig, Clovis FFA Chapter, Clovis, Calif. Idaho Agricultural Mechanics Nursery/Landscape Sponsored by Bndgestone/Firestone Trust Fund and Firestone Ag Tire Division Winning Team: Shelby ville FFA Chapter, Shelbyville. Mo. High Individual: Colleen FFA Griswold, Shelbyville Chapter, Shelbyville. Mo. Floriculture Sponsored by American Floral Endowment, Ball Horticultural Company, The Scotts Company/Ortho Business Group, and Sun Company Winning Team: FFA Industries. Inc.; and American Nursery & Landscape Association Eastern Randolf Chapter, Ramseur. N.C. High Individual: Holly Somers, FFA Sponsored by Rhone-Poulenc Ag Company; Kubota Tractor Corporation; Valent USACorporaton, Environmental Winning Team: Chatham FFA Chapter, Bear Creek, N.C. High Individual: Ryan Pulman, FFA Agricultural Sales Stevens Point Sponsored by Asgrow Seed Company Stevens Point, Wis. Okabena, Minn. Chapter. Newburg, Mo. Food Science and Technology Parliamentary Procedure High Individual: Darcy Vial, Newburg FFA Chapter, Newburg, Mo. Sponsored by Kellogg Company Sponsored by Novartis Crop Protection, Chapter. Houston, Texas Creed Speaking Clear Lake Chapter, Southwest Star Chapter, Winning Team: Newburg FFA Winning Team: Clear Lake FFA High Individual: Sponsored by Papa Johns International, FFA Julia Goshorn, Chapter. Houston, Poultry Evaluation Texas Sponsored by Rhone-Poulenc Animal Inc. High Individual: Michael Van Winkle, Nettleton FFA Chapter, Nutrition Forestry Sponsored by Champion International Corporation, International Paper, and Nettleton, Ark. Dairy Cattle Evaluation Sponsored by Associated Inc., Inc Winning Team: Troy FFA Chapter, Troy, Mo. Milk Producers, and Westfalia SURGE, LLC High Individual: Brandon Cope, Riesel High Individual: Brandon FFA Chapter, West Blocton, Ala. Winchester, Va. Dick, chapter. FFA Chapter, Riesel, Texas Chapter, Dunmore, W.Va. FFA Bill FFA Chapter, Riesel, Texas Winning Team: Pocahontas FFA Johnson, Bibb County High Individual: James Wood FFA Inc. Riesel Schrade Cutlery Winning Team: Putnam County Chapter, Eatonton, Ga. and Tyson Foods. Winning Team: Prepared Public Speaking Sponsored by FMC Corporation, Agricultural Products Group High Individual: Jr.. H.G. Parkinson McDonald, Pa. Elio Chiarelli, FFA Chapter. Talented FFA members from around the United States took over the 72nd National Convention with dynamic music and amazing their skills during the talent show. Returning acts like Travis and Tony Wolf from Spencer, Wisconsin, awed spectators by dancing on stilts. Chris Zubrick from Laingsburg, Michigan, along with his esteemed colleague Lacey Malone, audiences with a magic wowed act. There also was a barefoot bluegrass band from Cordoya, Alaska. In all, there were many outstanding national FFA talent acts of talent. This year, a total of 92 members Sponsored by Ford Division - Ford Motor Company performed in 45 different acts. The groups strutted their stuff 450 times ALABAMA: Sara Borchik. Enterprise; Jennifer Enterprise; Gagnon, Ben Henson, Enterprise; Ashley Jackson, Pleasant Hill; Leah by Saturday on the talent stage set Freedom Hall wing-a new Louisville. The Reid, Sweet Springs MONTANA: Gy in Salvevold, up east Rich Clark, Eufaula; Mitch Culbertson Gissendaner. Eufaula; Henry NEBRASKA: Cody Hughes. Eufaula; Matt Panjic. Central City; Kelli Churchill. group was directed by Gary Maricle, Eufaula: Becca Sandifer. Valentine NEW MEXICO: who completed Eufaula; Rish Spurlock, Eufaula; Caleb Gray. Isabella; Jarrod Portales Smitherman, Isabella; Joshua NEW YORK: twist originating in Gulbrandson, Summer Savage, Schuylerville Smitherman. Isabella; Sharlon NORTH CAROLINA: Deana Berry. Red Bay; Devin Dotson, Red Bay; Kristin Holland. Red Bay; Derek Humphries, Red Bay; Maria Humphries, Red Bay; Katie James, Red Bay: William James, Red Bay: Gannon Nunley. Red Bay; David Stovall. Red Bay Davis. Madison; Jennifer Glenn, ALASKA: Carrington; Jessica Kenner, Leeds Michael Mickelson, Cordoya; Jason Norris, Cordoya; Madison; Sheeanah Lowe, Madison; Jackie Puryear, Madison; Jerry Ramsey. Madison; Mattie Ramsey, Madison; Matthew Roberts. Madison; Renee Shelton, Madison; Kevin Worley, Madison NORTH DAKOTA: Paula Walker, OHIO: John Watkins, Benjamin; Emily Bowman. Fairbanks; Megan Oudean. Cordoya; Annalisa Cantrell, Fairbanks; Cordoya ARIZONA: Jessica Unruh, Fairbanks; Stacy Rausch, Fairbanks; Sarah Sterling. Fairbanks OKLAHOMA: Cheyenne GEORGIA: Amanda Griener, Fairbanks: Katie Mabry, Crystal Gillham COLORADO: Shana Woodall, Cherokee: Ladina Balcom, Jeff Jodi Davis, Elk City; Danielle Jarvis, Guymon; Elizabeth Kinney, Mooreland; Davis; Regina Blackshear, Jeff Kristin Johnson, Davis; Cameria Joyce, Jeff Davis; Gotebo; Tameria Joyce. Jeff Davis; Sierra Nicole Nichols, Valliant Moss SOUTH DAKOTA: IDAHO: National Talent duty. Amber Malani O'Toole, Cordoya; Angela Tornfelt, Sunnie Page. Cambridge; Bon Homme; Quin Chamberlain ILLINOIS: TEXAS: Shelley Rigg, Mountain View- Dawn Drummonds, Afton Hollingsworth, Preston Stigler; Danny Kaul. Peterson, Eric Brunson, Chisum; Bushnell-Prairie; Jason Smith, Phillip Cato, Louisa-Muscatine Durksen, Chisum; Jason Dyess, Talented Chisum; Colton Wicks, Chisum talent MICHIGAN: Denim Allen. Chisum; Jennifer Branch; Lukas Lenhart, Hopkins; WYOMING: Lacey Malone, Lainsburg; Cashmere; Jodi Burnett. Rainer Christopher Zubrick. Lainsburg; Kelley Rohlfing, Columbia; Yates. Nancy Columbia MISSOURI: Macon; Dawn on Levi Cahan, Smitherman. Isabella: Kevin Taylor, Isabella: his thirteenth year Christopher Dorrell, Shrum, Macon; Korissa Cox, North Harrison; WISCONSIN: Gayla Graves, Sarah Pruessing, Big Foot; Brandon Bruder, Prairie Farm; Anthony Wolf. Spencer; Travis Wolf, Spencer; Helen Hopke, Spooner; Kristine Nowak, Spooner FFA members from around the country show before Thursday night's session. strutted their stuff at a national FFA chorus Not since the movie "Son in Law," has "Thank I'm a Country Boy" been such a big until it came from National FFA the lips of the hit — men on Chorus. The chorus also God that is ALABAMA: John Barnwell, CALIFORNIA: Becky home with a stirring rendition of "America the Beautiful" Roland, El Capitan song, "Ease on Down." The chorus was composed of 101 of the who talented vocalists in the nation most dedicated many grueling hours of practice for the long-awaited convention sessions. Powerful performances and talented solo performers listeners. It made the chorus a joy for took almost three weeks to choose these 500 applications. The phenomenal chorus was dynamic and full of students from nearly IDAHO: The group worked with new director, Patti LaJoye, and her assistant Steve Bowen, both from Michigan. NORTH CAROLINA: Teri Jared Martin, Parma NORTH DAKOTA: Chase, Hebron; Kristi Uglem, Hornbaker, Northwestern; Northwood OHIO: Timothy Kylee Fent, Parkway; Mary Reif, Carrollton; Brad Senffner, Central of Clifton; Spoom Kylee Varnold, River OKLAHOMA: Barker, Waukon; Andrew Gray, Decorah; Karl Groszkruger, Hampton- Chaloner, Hinton; Christopher Tallcorn; Joshua Heard, Fremont- Balko; Colte Julian, Fletcher; Tammy Hoffman, Battle Roller. Clinton; Rockford; Tyler Smith. Fairview; Andrea Springer, Humboldt; Melynda Soma, South Guthrie; Devin Tebow, Deer Hamilton; Carl Stortz, Decorah Creek-Lamont KANSAS: Adam OREGON: Engelman, in, "Thank God I'm a Country SOUTH DAKOTA: Colin Greenfield, Beresford; Brooke Lockner. Miller; Matthew Odden, Miller; Kathryn Strom, Beresford TEXAS: Wendy Ellsworth. Cleveland Morris; Toni Halliburton, Kirbyville; Anna Vinkemeier. WatertownMayer MISSOURI: Mark Baker, Linn; Megan Denison, Seneca; Jason Grant Montgomery, Marcus; Denton, Crane High School; Burlington-Edison; Randi McNabb, Centralia Courtney Miner, Tony Callie Pierce, Snyder; Ruiz, AGM Consolidated WASHINGTON: Leah Hempill. Kifvett, Burlington-Edison; Joseph Richardson, Yelm; Shawn Siebold, Anita Bowder, Yelm WISCONSIN: Christy Pender; Jon Carpenter, Diller; Leatherberry, LaFarge; Julie Nicholas Clausen, Logan View; Schwahn, Reedsville; Laura Nicholas Erdman. Bayard; Ryan Shippert, Rio; Ruth Talford, Hofmann, Munson, Lynae Bendixsen. Carlsbad; Tanille Berry, Carlsbad Durand; Ryan Weiskircher, Mineral Point; Patrick Whelan, Gilman High School WEST VIRGINIA: Gorby, Tyler; Lee Palmyra NEW MEXICO: group PENNSYLVANIA: Melena Whittington, State College Crescinda Hamilton. Cedar Park; Parrish, in Clifton, Illinois, led the Analicia Santos. Glide Angela Sanborn, Alexandria; Bryce Wiebe. Centura; Jennifer Boy." John Shelley, Rothering, Fillmore Central; Harrison; John Schmall, Bayard; Chapter Rebecca Nida. Tonkawa; Kelly Quattlebaum, Leedey; James Sutton; William voices and lifted convention Coons, Braman; Jason Frantz, Hamilton; Lacey Schmitt, Griess, Sutton; Lisa lifted their JuliAnne Waynoka; Lauren Branscum, Moore; Aaron Creek; Katie Larson, South NEBRASKA: Brad Senffer, from the Central FFA Oak Harbor; Megan Scholl, Alexander Valley; Sarah Zeien, Carthage Peerless time. Harris, Kara Fent, Parkway; INDIANA; Justin Hill, Rossville IOWA: Monica Ehrhardt, MONTANA: same Ashlie Christina Merriman, Bluffs; Jessica FFA Chorus members Lindsay Rogers, Jamse Kenon Chicago Ag. Science; Jade Atwood; Shawn Miller, Winfield; Nathan Weiser, Altoona-Midway MICHIGAN: Katie Balaam, Lowell; Dustin Boehmer, Olivet; Kimberly Meiste, Lowell MINNESOTA: Brandyn Klosterbuer, Luverne; Shannon Nelsen, Minnewaska; Adam National Joshua Davenport. Plymouth High; Altoona-Midway; Jason Jones, goers' spirits at the Greenville; Carrie Marlow, ILLINOIS: Jonathon Hampton, Mills; life. Brian Hamilton, Chateaugay CONNECTICUT: Underhill. Rockville and a riveting performance of the chorus' favorite NEW YORK: Cuba-Rushford; Matthew Hobart, Billingsley the hit Sponsored by Ford Division - Ford Motor Company WYOMING: Devils Tower Lacey Ann Hall, Tyler Seth Heinert, national ARIZONA: Olivia Clause. Parker ARKANSAS: Mathew Thornton. City; Sara Messick, Central; Dustin Bismark; Kristina Nicole Lee. Lindsay Strouf, Pocahontas Wilbor-Clatonia; Bryan Colson, CALIFORNIA: Aaron Matthess. Hemmingford; John Stegmaier. Imperial; Kristy Russell. Holdrege Fowler: Kevin Clark. Gait; Joseph NEW HAMPSHIRE: Losee. San Jacinto: Elisa Azevedo. Sanborn Livingston NEW MEXICO: Matthew Geu. III. Harry Croydon, Mt. Elicia Currier, Kirtland ILLINOIS: Steven Ray. Tn-Point; OHIO: Rachel Garrett, Westfall; Amanda Stearns, Lakota; Abby Amy Troyer. Gerken, Holgate; Daniel Kramer, Peetz: Jessica Phelps. Peetz Normal: Amanda Mennenga Eaton INDIANA: Nick Stoltzfus. Dougherty. Fairfield: Justin Whiteland: Brian Bauman, OKLAHOMA: Harlan Yocham, Sapulpa; Brent Moore. Skiatook; Casey Miers. Chelsea; Brian Dyshia Morris, Rochester Leisher, Okeene; IOWA: Wakita; Edward Sifford Carrie Stomley. Rockwell-Sheffiel; Kurt Beyer. Pella: Angela Grey. Lakeside; Hooker; Adam OREGON: Ames PENNSYLVANIA: KANSAS: Olewiler, Easter Aaron McDonald. Madison Central MARYLAND: MICHIGAN: Kendra Butters, Homer: Cindy Groenink: Katie Droscha. Charlotte: Ryan Robinson. U.S.A.: Kimberly Wilson, Bently; Shannon O'Connor. Akron-Fairgrove: Kara Butters, Homer; Kristine Martz, Marshall: Thane Domrase. Alpena; Kristin Krista Young, Akron-Fairgrove SOUTH DAKOTA: Karen Kezar. TEXAS: Mathew Alexis Balko, Calallen; Stout, Hudson. Channelview; Roel Whether they were doing Burleson: Roger Carey, Cross Plains; David Foster, Sulpher Springs; Stacy Stockard. Sanger; VIRGINIA: Watertown-Mayer; Elsa Arnold, WASHINGTON: Spring Grove; Lisa McCarvel, St. John-Endicott; Chris St. John-Endicott; Troy Ferderer, Hazel, Greebfield; Janet Boyd. Rex Smiley, Milan; Nicholas Siler, McLean, Odessa; Stephanie Bishop, Yelm; Tasha Scherbenske. Auburn Layna Riverside; MISSOURI: WISCONSIN: Hillsboro; St. Germain, Hope Michelle Genke, Boonville; Kelly Jonathon Wantoch, Mondovi; Tina Howard, Wright City; Cheryl Hermann, Ragan, Warrensburg: Andrew Svendsen, Monticello; Thornton, Fayette: Jacob Crandall, Fredrickson, Lake Geneva; Nicole Milan Lankey, Wonewoc-Center; Tonya Pardeeville; Melissa Pautzke, Pardeeville; Thomas Raymond Valentine, Pecatonica; Dirdra Metcolfe, Hobson Abegglen, Colby; Dana Weigel, NORTH DAKOTA: Darlington; Kristopher Klassy, Emily Reimer, Waupaca; Brandi Berthold: Zachary Hall, Berthold; New Shanna Gratton, Larimore; Brent Brittney Kempfer, Rekkedal, J.E, East Gate; Brad WYOMING: Lambrecht, Lisbon Lander; Danielle Schaff, Wright Sheldon. Pawnee national stage. These dedicated individuals traveled to Louisville five days before the start of the Glarus; Lisa Melby, Waupaca; New first time. for countless hours to bring Hawk; Logan Braaten. Flathead; Kala Keith: Derek Larson, Manhattan; Diller; Jeff The National FFA Band consisted of 105 students from across the nation. Each band member sent in an audition tape to win a coveted seat on the convention to assemble as a group for the Jeremy Patrick-Crane, Waupaca; Rosenthal, actively prepared themselves They practiced Justin Jorgenson, Black NEBRASKA: Dawn members Parsons, Antigo; Bryan Spaunhorst, Washington; Jay Peterson, Brothers, for the day's events. Dustin Williams, Tina Holtmeyer, Washington; Austin Mapston; dance," or grooving to the tune of the Blues Wenatchee Heather Smith, El Dorado Springs; MONTANA: FFA Band. famous "chicken Scott Lawrence, Lord Botetourt Amy the Novak, Seymasour: Melissa Davis, Hawley; Tiffany Schmidt. Lanesboro energized before each session Guerra. Rio Grande City; Jennifer Elizabeth Beal. Jacksonville Dawson-Boyd; FFA members were by the thundering sounds of the National Mark Drewlow. Elissa Ottemess, Sponsored by Ford Division - Ford Motor Company and FFA Foundation General Fund the National McAllen; Wendy Kristen Betts, Spring Grove; Justin Dessonville. would Alcester-Hudson New York Round Lake; talent that Churchill Downs. Michael Byrd, Lamar; Lyndsey Hall, MINNESOTA: Mills: at Lynn Abbeville Sara Palm post" bugle Kier, Joseph SOUTH CAROLINA: KENTUCKY: Trumpeter Joseph Losee. California, displays musical rival the "call to Tishomingo Jalaina Johnson, Karla McClintock, Decorah; Kristie Schneider, Jr., Pierce, Sapulpa: Jennifer Heeren. South Hamilton Ell-Saline . Syracuse-Dumbar; Kreifels. DelNorte: Kevin Kandarian. COLORADO: FFA band Glarus Trevor Bekken, convention participants various musical renditions. Hard work and dedication paid off as the National Award winners were recognized on stage. These award winners excelled and Proficiency conquered in their area of expertise in the supervised agricultural experience program (SAE) to become the best of FFA. Many BEEF PRODUCTION ENTREPRENEURSHIP Sponsored by R.R. Donnelley & Sons Company; and Farm Progress Sponsored by Nasco Companies, and Schering-Plough Animal Health Illinois: different proficiency programs exist and 176 AGRICULTURAL COMMUNICATIONS members Inc. Bona Indiana: Jordon Zook, Colorado: Kasey Jo Walker, Carroll New Raymer Tammy Lynn Cedar Mountain South Dakota: Tiffany newer food science and technology, environmental science and emerging agricultural technology areas. These 44 proficiency Anderson. Agricultural awards recognize achievements MECHANICAL agriculture, to the in an ever-changing finalists and inspected their record books. Then, each winner was presented Lemmon BEEF PRODUCTION PLACEMENT AGRICULTURAL Cactus Feeders, Inc.; Fort Dodge Animal Health; Evergreen Mills, Pine Ridge Tim Inc. Elk Grove Corporation-Dodge Trucks James C. LeFils Jr., Indiana: Chad Shaffer, Deniz, Carroll Georgia: Clay Johnson. Emanuel County Wyoming: Ty Muir, Manila Institute Normal CEREAL GRAIN PRODUCTION Michigan: Ryan Sweeney, Sponsored by Cenex Harvest Mason States Foundation AGRICULTURAL MECHANICAL TECHNICAL SYSTEMS, PLACEMENT East Nicolaus Illinois: agricultural travel experience. and Kent Feeds, Florida: California: the chance to participate in an international Inc.; California: Anthony Ledahl, Sponsored by CARQUEST Corporation and Daimler Chrysler Chowchilla with a plaque and a cash award on stage and earned Idaho: Kyla Prunty. Rimrock Kansas: Brandon New, Tonganoxie TECHNICAL SYSTEMS, ENTREPRENEURSHIP industry. Judges interviewed California: Katherine Jeffers Biggers, Chowchilla Gilland, Areas range from traditional production Inc.; Bradbury, Harvard Minnesota: proved themselves worthy of national awards. Division/Nasco International, John Finnigan. California: Sponsored by Case Corporation Indiana: Jared Lee Nussbaum. Adams Central Ohio: Jason Rafferty Dallas, Greg Van Dyke, Colorado: John Michal, Flagler Indiana: Chad Alan Nussbaum, Adams Central Ohio: Andrew M. Stitzlein, Loudonville Laurel Oaks DAIRY PRODUCTION Pennsylvania: Jared W. ENTREPRENEUR Sponsored by Weaver, Grassland Manno Pro Alfa Laval Agri, Inc; Corporation, "The Calf- Wisconsin: Jason Oetzman, Manna" Company; and National Hillsboro FFA Foundation General Fund AGRICULTURAL PROCESSING Borba, Escalon California: Natalie Porscha Even Outdoor Recreation has its own proficiency award; Jaclyn Dawn Myers was the recipient of this national award. Iowa: Jordan D. Walther, Sponsored byAg Processing, Inc./Consolidated Nutrition LC; Archer Daniels Midland Company; and National FFA Foundation G&G Ohio: Daren M. Sheffield, Wellington General Fund Wisconsin: Jackie A. Connecticut: Ben Berecz, Thompson, Darlington Woodbury Indiana: Joseph H. Miller. DAIRY PRODUCTION Rochester PLACEMENT Pennsylvania: Carleen Sponsored by Monsanto Company Michelle Vorisek, Linesville California: Carl Brasil, Tennessee: Ralph G. Ramey, Tulare Western Midway Iowa: Nora Richter, AGRICULTURAL SALES AND/OR SERVICE Sponsored by Case Corporation; Chevrolet Motor Division; The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company; and Vigortone Ag Products California: Joe Martin Jr., Lodi Georgia: Terry Michael McNair, Hawkinsville Idaho: Zackary Gillette, Burley Missouri: Randy Salisbury • J. Meissen, Maquoketa Valley Minnesota: Shaine Miletto, Battle Lake Missouri: David Heusing, Pleasant Hope DIVERSIFIED CROP PRODUCTION ENTREPRENEURSHIP Sponsored by Cargill California: Frances Echeverria, Central Dan Illinois: Kilmer, Seneca Indiana: Jason Masters, Shenandoah Wisconsin: Joseph T. Lulich, Ashland DIVERSIFIED CROP PRODUCTION PLACEMENT EMERGING AGRICULTURAL TECHNOLOGY Sponsored by National Crop Insurance Services; AgrEvo; and Rain & Hail Insurance Service, Inc. Sponsored by Kansas: Justin Michael Newland, Neodesha California: Chris Black, Ohio: Matthew John Brooks, North High - Bakersfield Florida: William Donald Monroeville Oklahoma: Adam Caterpillar Agricultural Products, Inc. Tibbetts, Dukes, Lake Butler Chickasha Kansas: Ross Janssen, Wisconsin: Zeb Zuehls, Ellsworth Montello Ohio: Kyle Wilson, Laurel Oaks DIVERSIFIED LIVE- STOCK PRODUCTION ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCIENCE Sponsored by National Crop Sponsored by IMC Global, ENVIRONMENTAL Insurance Services; AgrEvo; and Rain & Hail Insurance Service, Inc.; and Carolina Biological Supply Co. Inc. Indiana: Austin Taylor, California: Jason Robert Carroll Diedrich, Firebaugh Illinois: Jennifer Kansas: Herman, Jarret D. Gowdy, Arkansas City Taylorville Minnesota: Courtney Lynne South Dakota: Jeff Daniel DeRouchey. Chamberlain Turnage, Murray County Central Wisconsin: Steven Michael Offer, Oregon: Jennifer Louise Marshfield Brickey, Hillsboro EQUINE SCIENCE, ENTREPRENEURSHIP DIVERSIFIED LIVE- STOCK PRODUCTION, PLACEMENT Sponsored by ContiGroup Companies, Inc, Allflex USA, Sponsored by Purina Mills, Inc.; American Paint Horse Association; and Red Brand Non-Climb Horser Fence/Made by Keystone Steel & Inc.; Wire Company and United Soybean Board Diversified crop production California: Eric Joughin cultural experience Hafenfeld, Kern Valley to Indiana: Scott C. Spooner, the national level. Carroll Missouri: Donald Lewis Laut III, Fredericktown Utah: John Matthew Wintch, Dixie is one of the many supervised agri- programs available. Students were selected advance from the state level and top projects were judged at California: Shayna Muniz, Templeton North Dakota: Matthew Anderson, Carrington Ohio: A.J. Price, Benjamin Logan Wisconsin: Dwayne P. Beaumier. Oconto Falls EQUINE SCIENCE, PLACEMENT Sponsored by Resistol Hats California: Tina Lynn Saitone, Petaluma Indiana: Jeffery Scott Dever. Oak Hill Utah: Shawn W. Silcox, Payson Washington: Rachel Willemsen. Yelm ; »« $\p*~ ny FEED GRAIN PRODUCTION ENTREPRENEURSHIP Sponsored by Pioneer Hi-Bred inter- national, Inc. Colorado: Bryan Geisick, Wiggins Illinois: Brandon VanBlaricum, West Richland Missouri: Aaron Dale Minnick, Chillicothe Nebraska: Ryan Anthony Johnson, Imperial FEED GRAIN PRODUCTION PLACEMENT Sponsored by Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. Indiana: David Richard Skiles, Carroll Kentucky: Tyson Colin Sanderfur, Ohio County Missouri: Patrick L. Weisz, Norborne Wisconsin: Joe Steuck, Montello Kimberly Michelle Newson was ecstatic when she was announced winner of the sheep production proficiency award. FIBER CROP PRODUCTION Sponsored by Griffin LLC; Cotton Grower; and Witco Corporation California: Dominic Pitigliano. Tulare Union FORAGE PRODUCTION HOME AND/OR LANDSCAPE Artesia Sponsored by Gehl Company; and MANAGEMENT North Carolina: Samuel Novartis Seeds. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT David Walton, St Pauls Oklahoma: Zac Harris, California: Sponsored by Nebraska: Tracy McCormick, New Mexico: Kami Joy. Hobart FLORICULTURE Sponsored by American Floral Endowment; The Kroger Company; Valent U.S.A. Corp.; and Greenhouse Grower Florida: Chad Allen Branford, North Marion Oklahoma: Amanda Lynn Bingham, Tecumseh Washington: Rebekah Riches. Yelm Wisconsin: Renee Michelle Cerny, Big Foot- Walworth FOOD SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY Sponsored by HJ. Heinz Company; Meyocks & Priebe Advertising, Inc.; Inc. Beau Christopher Correia, Dos Palos Illinois: Ryan Meyer, Liberty Indiana: Jacob Win ford Arthur. Southmont Ohio: John Huss. Woodmore FOREST MANAGEMENT Sponsored by DaimlerChrysler Corporation Fund-Dodge Trucks; John Deere Consumer Products and subsidiary Homelite and Smurfit- Sponsored by Reiman Publications Carhartt, Inc. Colorado: Carlos Allen Abeyta, Delta Missouri: Richard C. Craig, Motes, West Carteret Norborne New Mexico: Fabian South Dakota: Chad Odens, Beltran. Virginia: Brian Estes West Virginia: Emily Okes, Shady Spring Calhoun, Park View Alabama: Joey Knight, Randolph-Roanoke AGncultural Division California: Travis Thane, Turlock Nevada Union Ohio: Georgia: Thomas Blake Tennessee: Benjamin Moore, Indiana: Matt Oberlies. Scottsburg Sr. NURSERY OPERATIONS HORTICULTURE Sponsored by Bayer Corporation, Wheeler County Harrisburg Artesia Stone Container Corp. Clark, Tekamah-Herman North Carolina: Jonathan California: J. Robert Serna. Sponsored by Daimler-Chrysler Corporation Fund-Dodge Trucks; Farmland Mutual Insurance Company/Nationwide Agribusiness Insurance Company and Quality Stores, Inc. Julie Dabrunz, Fremont Group Florida: Kiley Sieffert. Colonial Warren County Louisiana: Mayonce E. Wisconsin: Brooke Ellen Franks. North Central Voelker, Fremont Weyauwwega- Ohio: Raymond 'Andy and Seneca Foods Corporation FRUIT AND/OR Tennessee: Arkansas: Jeremy West, VEGETABLE PRODUCTION Newby. Warren County Springdale Maine: Julie Megan Gunderman, Presque Isle Oregon: Shelli Bunn. Dayton Wisconsin: Kelvin Heiman, Marshfield Sponsored by Briggs & Stratton Corporation Foundation, Inc. Idaho: Ryn Beck, Burley California: Timothy Lewis, Elk Grove Indiana: Francisco Reyes, North Newton Utah: Melanie McMullin, Payson ' Rickets, Ridgedale Adam Franklin OIL CROP PRODUCTION, ENTREPRENEURSHIP Sponsored by Novartis Seeds, Inc.; and United Soybean Board Kansas: Steve Friess, Labette POULTRY PRODUCTION SMALL ANIMAL CARE Sponsored by Novartis Animal PLACEMENT Sponsored by Chore-Time Equipment Division of CTB, Inc.; Schering-Plough Animal Health; Health U.S., Sponsored by Akey, and United Soybean Board County New Mexico: Marshall Alan Baker, Texico Mark Georgia: Jonathan Gibson, Gilmer County Indiana: Kelly Myers, North Carolina: Piedmont J.R. Austin, Ohio: Rob Bambauer, New Bremen Wawasee Minnesota: Nathan PLACEMENT Sponsored by BASF; AgroEvo; Woodlan Ohio: Jamie Evans, Live Iowa: Jeffrey R. Moellers, Starmont Oaks: Carla Dian Channell, Ohio: Kristina Diamond. Gaither Marysville Tennessee: Tiffany German, Oklahoma: Tonya Nicole McMinn County West, Weatherford Hope SOIL AND WATER Norbome Foundation General Fund Turpin, Ohio: Curt Goubeaux, California: Paige Gill, Kentucky: Raglena E. Madison Central North Dakota: Shannon Dixon Reardon, Medina Missouri: Ryan T. Craig, Versailles Wisconsin: Ryan Sperger, North Carolina: Brent Waupun Justin Jennings. Camden Hamilton Virginia: Melissa L. Nebraska: Marty Bland. Norfolk Oregon: Jackie Herinckx, Hillsboro Taloga Tennessee: Kimberly Sponsored by Chevrolet Motor Division; OF. Mossberg and Sons, Michelle Newsom, SPECIALTY ANIMAL PRODUCTION, Dyersburg Sponsored by Purina and Quality Stores, Dawn Florida: Frank WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT, ENTREPRENEURSHIP Mills, Inc.; Inc. Sponsored by Bass Pro Shops. Group Ray Allen Myers, Sierra Suwannee Louisiana: Rocky Smith. Idaho: Derek Fisher, Vinton Meridian Minnesota: Matthew Ohio: Kevin Dale Shoemaker, Madison-Plains Knott, Tracy Fessenden Wyoming: Quint Gonzales. Tennessee: Jeremy Buffalo Montgomery, Riverside Minnesota: Scott M. Fank, Bold South Dakota: Nicholas Nielson, Lennox Sundstrom Wisconsin: Nicholas Jerry Beil, SPECIALTY CROP PRODUCTION Sponsored by Elf America, Kubota Tractor Inc.; Atochem North Corporation, Na-Churs/Alpine Solutions; and Wilbur-Ellis Marshfield WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT, PLACEMENT Sponsored by Cabela's Ducks Unlimited; Rocky Mountain Elk Company Foundation; National Rifle California: Christopher Association of America Jared Chaney, Kerman Indiana: Andrew D. Haskell, Idaho: Kyle Brown, Switzerland County Indiana: Wisconsin: Tracy Lee Gibson Southern Smithback, Cambridge Ohio: Jon Norris. Miami Wyoming: Michelle Valley Career Technology Vigil, Cambridge Mark A. Oklahoma: SWINE PRODUCTION, ENTREPRENEURSHIP Sponsored by Pfizer Animal Health; Mills, Inc. California: Rachelle Ann Bailey, Turlock Illinois: Krista Builta, Blue Ridge Missouri: Jesse Albert Heimer, Palmyra Wisconsin: Jesse Thomas James C. LeFils, Jr. was jubilant as his name was called national winner of the beef proficiency award. Sollman, Center Riverside and Purina Inc; and Buck Knives II, North Dakota: Dusty Kost, E. Indiana: Andrea Faye Ohio: Fran Meister, West Anne RECREATION and Schrade Cutlery Sponsored by The Scotts Company Liberty-Salem Kenney, Turner Ashby OUTDOOR Inc.; MANAGEMENT Bennett, Southmont Oklahoma: Dustin Moore, California: Jaclyn TURF GRASS Products Indiana: Craig A. Holman, Iowa: Ryan Beeson, Red Oak Cross, MANAGEMENT Sponsored by American Cyanamid Company, Global Agricultural SHEEP PRODUCTION J. Randolph Sponsored by LA-CO All Weather" Paintstik Markers; Wrangler Division of V.F. Corporation; and National FFA Asgrow Seed Company and Pfizer Animal Health Wisconsin: Jeffrey Menahga Pleasant Inc.; Indiana: Nora Lynn Berndt, Ylitalo. Missouri: Tyler Cribbs, OIL CROP PRODUCTION, Inc. SWINE PRODUCTION, Bollinger, as Cochrane-Fountain City Carneeie Justin Steckman. ALABAMA: Daryl Lee Behel. Rogers: Chris Carroll, Slocomb; A Jonathan Eubanks, Slocomb; John Grace. South Lamar: John T Hubbard. Bibb County: Brad Lamon, East Lawrence; Brian Randall Lamon, East Lawrence; Carrie Lee Myers, Collinsville; Jered Oden, Russellvillc; Christine Anne Simmer, Montevallo; James Bradford Smith, Montevallo; John David Strickland, Slocomb; ARIZONA: Lacey Balmer, Payson; Shanna Nicole Bowman, Kofa; Jennifer Ann Amanda Cansler. Boyle. Gilbert: Yuma; Ryan Amy Churchey, Red Mountain: Cowell. Red Mountain: Lynn M Davies, Safford; Jason Michael DeSpain, Safford: Chad DiPeso, Benson; Brian Christopher Fuller, Chino Valley". R Matthew Gless. amencan Red Mountain; Angela Kay Jaynes, Yuma; Julia Johnson. Payson; Joe Jones, Antelope; Laura Miller, Red Mountain; Blaine Morris. Yuma; Sponsored by American Cyanamid Company, Global Agricultural Products; Case Corporation; Farm Credit Services; and, Pioneer Hi-Bred Jason Paul. Payson; Jamie Rovey. International, Inc. Buckeye; Shauna D Smith. Peoria: Eric Stevens, Payson; Jesus Franisco Honorary American FFA Degree recipients exemplify the Valdez, Elfrida; Jessica Lynn Van and Matre, Yuma; Robbie Walker, its mission with their tactics. Aimee Weber. Yuma; Katie Red Mountain; Patrick F own true meaning of the FFA premier leadership, personal growth and career success Recipients of this distinguished degree remind members how influential Elfrida; Weir. Wellert II, leaders are and the importance of supporting a worthy cause. Peoria: Stephanie Wellert, Peoria; Hayley Recipients of this degree range from agricultural teachers Eric Wofford, helping students to school and government officials Renee White, Kofa; Yuma; Tanner Lee Young, Gilbert; ARKANSAS: Baker. Mountain Josh Home; Morgan E good of who who devote countless hours offer their expertise for the the organization and the people involved. Davis, Nettleton; Samantha Easley. Valley Springs; The National FFA Organization Honorary American FFA Degree is presented to such individuals to thank them for their continued support of the FFA and agricultural Paragould; education. During the Friday morning session these honored individuals received Emerson; Elizabeth Paige Garvin. Amanda M Norman. Sarah E Norman. Paragould; Scotch Powell. Mountain their plagues and esteemed appreciation from the national officers. Home; Eric Rowbotham, Mountain Home; Aaron Treat, Decatur; CALIFORNIA: Shanna Abatti, Centro-Southwest; Tony El A Abatti. El Courtney Baylis, Mira Loma-Jurupa Morro Bay; Moon Bay; Sarah Burrow, Lemoore: Matthew Byrne, Tulelake; Cori Calvert, Fresno-Central; Liz Camara, Centro-Southwest; Allison Marie Valley; Julie Beaver, Adams, Tehachapi; Amanda Aguiar, Livingston; Katy Allen. Atascadero; James Daniel Beck, Bret Harte; Paul David Bedrosian, Fowler; Matt Russell Steven Allison. Mariposa; Beechinor. Madera; Stephanie David Carr, Chowchilla: Melissa Neil Amarante, Gustine; Patrick Benedict, Yosemite; Irene Bernal. Christine Carter, Mira Loma-Jurupa Andersen, Los Molinos; Manuel Andrade Jr, Corcoran; Joshua Anson, Sunny Hills; R Matt Archer, Gustine; Miranda Cardiff, Dixon; Adam Casso, Atwater; Chris Livingston; Larry Bettencourt, Valley: Gonzales; Manuel Bettencourt, Centeno, Arroyo Grande; Nathan Hanford; Jeremy Biery, Escondido; Center, Fresno Central; Maria Kylie Billingsley, Lemoore Union; Chavez, Butte Valley; Greg Chiossi, Kerman; Ryan Armstrong, Orange Glen; Stephen Ashburn, Fresno Chris Black, North High- Healdsburg; David John Coffman, Central; Kimberly Aspiras, Chico; Bakersfield; Jessalee Blackwell, Gilroy; Christina Avila, Atwater; Cory Avila, Lodi: Kelly Block, Shandon: Gustine; Eric Axberg, Mira Loma- Andrew Bloom, Turlock; Scott Boardman. Chino-Don Lugo; Kathryn A Cornelius, La Habra-Sonora; Braziel, Elk Jennifer Correia. Tulare Union; North High-Bakersfield; Juliann Laura Baker. Sanger: Margo Bothwell. Kern Valley; Baptista. Atwater; Bridget Barcellos, M Monache; Thaddeus Barsotti. Esparto; Mandy Barton, Chowchilla; Debi Batini, Areata; Braz, Anderson; Adam Central; Sharee' Michelle Copeland, Amber N Jurupa Valley; Holly Baker, Atwater; Baldiviez. Santa Maria; Brian Mindy Marie Coleman. Pioneer; Julieann Collins, Fresno Grove; Brett Broesel, La Sierra; Jeff Steven Costa, Tulare Union; Robin Brown, Clovis; Heidi Buckman, Cozzitorto, Hilmar; McArthur-Fall River; Will Bunt, Red Thomas Bluff; Bridget Annette Burns, Half Creighton, Lake IsabellaKern Valley; Stacy Ann Crow, San Benito; Brian Lambert, Lake Chad Murdoch, Chowchilla; Francisco Muro. BakcrsfieldRidgeview; Matthew Murray. DeBennedetto. Clovis; Zach Isabella-Kern Valley; Laura Carpinteria; Patrick Murray, Dixon: DeBemardi, Santa Maria-Righetti; Renee Dell. Sanger; Tim Deniz, Chowchilla; Stacey Leah DePaul, Surprise Valley; David DeRose, Tulare Western; Gabe DeTar, Dixon; Elizabeth Lander, Coalinga; Newman-Orestimba; Victor Torres Fresno-Pershing; Lorna Kreutz, Cruz. Santa Maria; Manuel Cunha, Fallbrook; Jenni Kuhns, Hollister- Lemoore: Andy Curlee, Lodi; Alex Luke DeTar, Dixon; Jane Diedrich, Firebaugh; Andrea Dilley, Fresno Central; Jacob Cody Domenghini, Morro Bay; D J Dunn, Santa Ynez; Lesa Eidman, Grass Valley-Nevada Union; Keith Elliott, McFarland; Amanda Molly Myers, Tollhouse-Sierra: Ron Lane, Lemoore; Sarah Elisha Nack, Escondido; Bobbie Nelson. Lenard, Fullerton; Jesus Leon, Atwater; Jeff Noble. Porterville- Gonzales; Ricky Levy, Lemoore; Monaehe; Terry Norris, Matthew Lewallen, Merced Golden Bloomington; Justin Noutary. Dixon; Valley; Jollecn Lindo, Gustine; Shayleen Marie O'Connell. Colusa: Robert Lindsey, Norco; Dallas W David M Ogilvie, Clarksburg Delta; Lobmeyer, Coalinga; Sarah Ida Lopes. Newman-Orestimba; Anna Carlos Oliva, Gonzales; Sara Ortiz. Michele Lounibos, Vista; Dean Tulare Western; Sasha Orton. Santa Loux, Santa Maria; Christopher R Philip Ogilvie, Clarksburg-Delta; Ynez; Brady Otto, Gait; Jerry Ourique, Laton; John Paasch, Grass April England, Lake Isabella-Kern Luis, Fresno-Central; Sara Valley, Traci Erickson, Fallbrook; Luscombe. Tulelake; Frank Machado, Atwater; Michelle Maciel, Riverdale; Randee Lee Valley-Bear River: Tamara Lynn Maier, Tollhouse-Sierra; Pauline Paula Pafford, Firebaugh; Maria Michael Fagundes. Kingsburg; James Faircloth, Escondido; Rebecca Marie Ferrari, Santa Maria; Michael Ferreira, Dixon; Sara Hilary Fike, Yosemite; Steven Flores, Santa M Mandell, Littlerock; Tulare Western; Amanda Amy Martin. Jo Martin. Pacho, Mira Loma-Jurupa Valley: Philip L Pacia, Sonora-La Habra: Paredes, Fresno Central; Kevin Parsons. Lake Isabella-Kern Valley; Ynez: Mandy Foreman. Brentwood- Mark Alan Liberty; Foust, Lancaster-Antelope Valley; Tricia Fowler, Atwater; Paris Freitas, Lemoore; Joshua Freng, Tehachapi; Robin Frost. Fairfield-Armijo: Jennifer Galaway, Atwater; Jose Garcia. Newman-Orestimba: Bailey Gardner, Campbell; Jennifer Lynn Gates, Mira Loma-Jurupa Valley; Frank Gaytan, Selma; Paige Gill, Dixon; Andy Godfrey, Riverside-La Sierra; Melissa Alison Gomes, Merced-Golden Valley: Amanda Kate Gonzales, San Marcos; Brian Goodwater, Dixon; Sherie Goulart, Fresno-Central: Jill Greathouse, Sutter Union: Christine M Green. Lancaster-Antelope Valley; Hector Guerra. Santa Maria-Righetti; Jennifer Guthrie-Casey, Yosemite; Tony Gutierrez, Dorris-Butte Summer Donald J Valley; Hackett. Tollhouse-Sierra; Hadden III, Littlerock; Bryon Hadwick, Dorris-Butte Valley: Eric Hafenfeld. Valley; Megan Lake Isabella-Kern Harrison, La Habra- Mira Loma-Jurupa Valley; Grant Edward Martin, El Capitan; Aaron Shane Peck. Atwater; Arthur Pedreiro. Chowchilla: Lisa Petersen, Sonora; Heather Lynn Havens, Matheron, Hilmar; Melanie Mathis, Santa Ynez; Shelley Holtville; Kelly Heather, Yosemite; Hanford; Jeni McCleskey, Atwater; Chowchilla; Alvino B Hermosillo, San Marcos; Richard McGrath. Riverside- Michelle Pigeon, Dixon: Jessica Nick Heryford. Clovis; Joel Rubidoux; James McKasson, Dorris- Pires, Tulare Hickman, Dixon; Nicole Howell, Salinas; Jeremy Micheal Hunter, Butte Valley; Kristina M Lemoore; McKay, Amy Petitt. Pietrowski. Dixon: Union; Nicholas W Podsakoff, Kerman: Anselmo Tehachapi; Lisa Leona McPeters. Ramirez, Santa Ynez: Teresa Ramos. Woodland; Misty Rayn, Dixon: Matt Jurupa Valley; Justin Jackson, Madera; Chet Mebane, North High- Redding. Madera: Jimmy Reed. East Woodland; Lisa Johns, Tulare Bakersfield; Sean Union; Courtney Johnson, Obispo; George Meyer, Lemoore; Fowler; April Jackson, Mira Loma- Jeff McLaughlin. L Mees, San Luis Nicolaus; Chad Reis. Dixon: Sarah Renner. Fortuna; Kevin Riley. C Chowchilla; Patricia Johnson, Katie Meyer, Fortuna; Atwater; Audrey Johnston, Mira Migliazzo, Atwater; Rebecca Yucaipa: Rebecca Lynn Ritchea. Quartz Matthew Loma-Jurupa Valley; Jenifer Jones, Suzanne Mintz, Nicolaus-East Coalinga; Kevin Jones, Lemoore; Nicolaus; Mario Mitchell, Maureen Anita Jones, Bay; John David Moiola. Brawley; El Capitan; Mono McFarland: Briahna Hill; Jennifer Ritchea. Roberts. Tulare Western; Camille Marie Robertson. Santa Maria-Ernest Righetti; Korie Theresa Jones, Mira Loma-Jurupa Mark Monroe, Fresno-Pershing; Robinson. Dixon: Chad Rocha. Valley; Joey Jorge, Santa Maria- Justin Gustine: Heather Rocha. Hanford; Ernest Righetti; Frank Junio, Tulare Moore, Elk Grove; Juan Moreno, Lemoore; Jasen Morris, Union; Jami Kaptein. Fallbrook; Dixon; Tony Mullen, Riverside-La Michael Rodriguez. Madera; Allison Conor Keegan, Santa Ynez; Rhett Kennedy, Atwater; Zeb King, Atascadero; Nathan Koop, Sierra; Elizabeth Mullion, Blythe; Roeben. Lemoore: Casev Euaene Wesley Rodrigues. Lemoore: Steven Mary Catherine Thomas, Durant Roland. Salinas-North Salinas: Tina Bolinger, Delta; Neil James Lynn Saitone, Petaluma: Jennifer Michelle Sanford. Lompoc: Melissa Saterfield. Mira Loma-Jurupa Valley; Brennan, Meeker; Chris Holly; Travis James Carman, Akron; Senior; Christopher Michael Carpio, Platte Senior; Daniel Slade Williams, Amanda Marie Sayers. Kelseyville: Mathew Daniel Schager. Hamilton Cunningham, Hotchkiss; Ryan Davis, Las Animas; Williston C Burns, Valley; Heather Senior; Allison Amy J Wacaser, Durant S Wacaser, Durant High Senior; Josh B Wilson, Okeechobee Brahman; City; Steven William Schohr, Michael Forster, Platte Valley; Bobbi GEORGIA: Shannon Lynn Schreyer, Mira Loma-Jurupa Valley; Stephanie Sears. Arroyo Grande; Zachary Geisert, Valley; Brad Allan Harr, County; Keith Bassett. Putnam Alamosa; Scott B Harr. Alamosa; County; Reginald Doyle Beasley, Shuler. Lucerne Valley; Trinity Silva. Herboldsheimer, Peetz; Ryan Lemoore; Patrick Simas, Lemoore; Johnson. Platte Valley; Julie County; Trey Hart. Colquitt County; Lorraine Kreps, Eaton; Jennie Timothy Kirk Jackson, Jefferson; Kathryn Sissom, Chowchilla; Cody Loutzenhiser, Flagler; Scott Bradley Krista Jowers, Coffee County; Eric Skinner. Gonzales; Gayle Smith, Oswald, Kit Carson; Seth Paige, Kight, Treutlen; Richard Oliver Gridley; Jeffrey Half David Simonian. Fowler; Erin Moon Bay; Katrina Smith. C Hawkins, Peetz; Ryan D Randy Lynn Palmer, Rex Peebles. Hotchkiss; Timothy D Provost. Pueblo County; Eaton; Newman- Orestimba; Chrissy Spencer. Gait: Angela Bnanne St D Burlington: Norco; Anthony Souza. Tulare Union; Kacey Souza, Duane Clair. Porterville; David Ruyle. Wiggins; Richard Schmunk, Eaton; Joshua Ray Hilary Barrett, Franklin Wayne County; Amy Day, Coffee County; Kristy Lynn Griffis, Wayne McGinnis, Madison County; Philip Edward McKie, Wilcox County; Benjamin Clay Melancon, Oconee County; Tony A Morgan, Effingham County; Lana C Moye, Mitchell- Dustin Stellway, Escondido-Orange Schnabel, Kit Carson; Gabe Baker; James Allen Nobles, Glen; Dani Stock, San Luis Obispo; Schreiber. Woodlin; Robin Treutlen; Bradley Scott Stoller. Altaville-Bret Harte; Schreiber. Woodlin; Susan Schreiber, Effingham County; Terry Roberts, Tyler Storey. Santa Ynez: Stacy Ann Flagler; D J Sheldon. Burlington; Colquitt County; Stubna. Mira Loma-Jurupa Valley; Jon Smithburg. Flagler; Nikki Treutlen; William Sullivan, Paso Robles; Smotherman, Lamar; Jake Turner, Las Animas; Kasey Jo Walker, New Raymer: Cody Weber, Montrose; County; Kevin Patrick Sweeney, Kingsburg: Travis Thane, Grass Valley-Nevada Tara Naomi Weber. Ray Thomas Rahn. Rodney Rogers, Salter, Colquitt Jarrell Sapp, Colquitt County; Laura Michelle Smith. Bainbridge; Carol Lea Spruit] Kit Carson; amencan Union; Travis Thurman, Bakersfield- CONNECTICUT: Highland; Heather Elizabeth Todisco, (Molnar) Knowlton, Storrs Regional; Berrien County; Melissa Varnadoe, Madera; Anthony Triqueiro. Chris Crane. Housatonic Valley; Cook; Lemoore; Jessica Truax. Dorris-Butte Dawn Marie Bear Lake: Robyn Boss. Valley; Jeremy Turner, Dixon; Mary Tye, Chico; Juan C Uribe, Gonzales; Elyse J L Christine Jackson County; Leanne Stalvay. Deojay. Killingly; M Giles, Matta Beset; Valerie Goldstone, Northwestern Regional: John Marius Van de Pol, Escalon; Lalena Lee McMillan. Matta Beset; Colleen Van Egmond. Gait; Jeremy Clark Pariseault. Northwestern Van Groningen, Laton; Orlando Regional; Steven Velazaquez, Santa Maria-Righetti; Hall; Stacey Stearns, Storrs Brian Ventura. Santa Maria; Leaine Verdegaal. Hanford; Brian Tulare Union: Mark A Vieira. M Hall; DELAWARE: Paula Kohout. Caesar Rodney; James Vitoria, Lake Z Bartschi, Filer; Jake Cody Robert Chandler, Weiser: Brian Paul Darrington, Declo; Jennifer Ellis, Sarah Fuller, Filer: Lori Harrison, Minico; Monica Janicek, Meridian; Regional; Christopher F Werbiski. Lyman Brackett, Filer: Sean Meridian: Jake Florence, Cambridge; Lyman Saleski, IDAHO: W Bodie B Keetch, Bear Lake; Dawsha Kelley, Vallivue; Troy Lloyd Kimball, Castleford; Nathan Lee Lemoore: Erik von Seggern, Messick Escondido; Kevery Waters, Peebles. Caesar Rodney; William Mink, Cambridge; Trent Munden, Tanner, Caesar Rodney; Cambridge: Krista Tollhouse-Sierra; Don M Welch. Lemoore: Stephan S West, Carpinteria; Treva Renee Wharton, Jr, Wendy Michelle Langley, Fruitland; Kyla Leigh Forest; Ashley C FLORIDA: Burton, Lake Filer; Wheatley. Lemoore; Donnie Butler; Benjamin L Butler, Okeechobee Brahman; Courtnie Davison, Lake Butler: Anne H Whitworth, Dixon; Andrew Williams, Dunigan, Gaither: Jacqueline Arroyo Grande; James Thomas Flowers, Suwannee; William Irvin Lakeside-El Capitan; Robert Williams Jr. B San Marcos; Shawndelle Williams, Santa Maria-Righetti; Shay Ann Williams. San Marcos; Tom Williams, Mariposa; Jarred Holtville; Hollister; Patsy Donald Charlotte Placid; Williamson, Reedley; Christopher Windham. Johnson, Suwannee; Bryan Columbia; O Wir/. Wood, Coalinga; Amy T Jones, Ann McQuillen, Lake Jenkins; Jerrett Pigott, Chipley; Vo Jenkins; William Woodbridge. Coalinga; Kalli Troy Anthony Rentz. Deland; Marie Wooters, Anderson; Jamie Randall Lynn Yarbrough. Mira Loma-Jurupa E Rucker, Dixie Sr; Ronald Douglas Simmons Jr, South Sumter; Amanda Valley Heathei \ni Yelverton Buena Park; Stan Young, FresnoPershing; Amber Zuiderweg, Tulare Union; Natalie Marie Zwerner, Apple Valley; COLORADO: Kristen J Andrews, Weld Central; Julie Appel, McClave; Justin Lawrence Roser Jr, Gaither; Heather Lyn Smith. Pine Ridge; Natalie Smith, Lake Butler; Andrew Philip Soliz, Charlotte Senior; Jason Steward, Chamberlain; Surles, Wade Amanda Okeechobee Brahman; Justin Teuton, North Marion; Brandi Thomas, Lake Region; Lee Ann Smith, Fruitland; Erika Stelljes, Damien P Negley. George C Orthel, Payette; Skinner, Bear Lake; Rebecca Fruitland; Christina Marie Pryor. Sarasota Dawn E Pape. Janita Showell, Malad; Jessica A Luther, Suwannee; AG; Michael Rago, George Stephanie Lacey Ann Swainston, Richfield: E Charlie Vogel. Kuna; Derek Wakefield. Cambridge; Anne Odile Wickersham, Payette; Harrison: Joshua R Giesler, Forest Amanda Kay Greenwood, Benton Central; Julie Ann Greives, Algona; Matt Danner, Carroll Area; County; Derek Sawyer. Jnman: Park; Andy Christopher Demuth, WaverlyShell Rock; Mathew Ryan Dewey, Leslie Small, Arkansas City: ILLINOIS: Darren Bakken. Rossville; Jason Michael Gross, Waverly-Shell Rock; Kevin Lynn Lance Stafford, Lincoln: Parker Bane, Ridgeview; Carroll; Engelbrecht, North Scott; Elise Joy Stockebrand, Yates Center: Katie Feinberg, Alburnett; Teresa Stucky, Inman; Trenton Uden. M Danielle Barnett. Bluffs: Jason Barto. Lincolnwood; Liberty: Amy Dave Bent. Brandt. Waterloo; Brad Harts, Oak Mark Hill; Andrew Haveman, Whiteland: Cara L Hines, Huntington North; Robert L Johnson, DeKalb; Isaiah R Jones, Feldpausch, Central; Thomas C Michael L Springer, Neodesha: Hill City: Josh Arkansas City; Ervin Underwood. Goodhue, Indianola; Jamie Haidsiak, Mount Ayr; Samantha J Heinz, Charles City; Matthew Allan Horak. Mankato; Thomas Watson, Hillsboro; Brad Williams. Arkansas Ross Bremmer. Pearl City: Eric L Rossville; Russell Oliver Kelsay, Cheeseman. Ashton: Karen Comerford, Bluffs; Nicholas C Dinges. Amboy: Melissa Renee Dry, Whiteland; Chad Chad Duane Kirkpatrick, Southwood; Andrew Klosterman, Jensen, Osage; Roanoke-Benson; Holli Ishmiel Seymour: Kyle Arthur Kuehnert, Osage; Justin Jon Jordahl. Iowa Rockcastle County; Eisenmann. Cissna Park; Jeremiah Huntington North; Brian Keith Falls-Alden; Brian Kessel, Lamoni; Barren County; Dana Jo Baker. Wayne Key. Oak Hill; K Vinton; Trista Ide, Creston; Brad City; Matt Wolters, Atwood; Becky Zenger, North Central; KENTUCKY: Andy Johnson, Jonathan Lee Adams. Jimmy Allen. Fleming. Olney: Jason Alvin Marlin. Whiteland; Audrey Suzanne Michael James Kramer. Osage; Caldwell County: Brandon Ball. Froehner. Peotone: Kevin Guebert. McCain, Delphi; Lisa Mae McDill, Patrick Lentz, Waverly-Shell Rock; Breckinridge County; Craig Keith Waterloo: Angela Kristine Haag. Tri- Liberty; Brett Middlesworth, Point: Jay Harris. Franklin: Christina Hill: Harshman. Barry: Jared James Joseph Hunter. Salem: Debra S Korte, Muhlenkamp. South Adams; Kevin David Munchel. Western Wayne; Stephpanie Lynn Noether. Rossville; Matthew A O'Shaughnessey. McCaw, Woodlan: Patrick Padgett. Clinton Sharon B Nimke, Manson Northwest W L Lambird. Massac County; Mark Olney: Christopher Alan Leman, Roanoke-Benson; Scott Lucht. Cissna Park: Matthew N Marriott. Mount Carmel: Adam Martin. Alexis: Timothy James McDermott. Waltonville; Jason K Miranda L Miller, Rossville; R Mills. Southmont; Matt Prairie; Gail Hill; Joseph Phipps, Oak Rhea Lynn Ricker, Clinton Central; Kevin Waterloo: Shane McNeil, Oak Riegel, J Hagerstown; Shane Ring. McNiel, Mark Licht. Manson Northwest Nathan McAvan, J Central; Carrie Williamsburg; Scott Matthew Metzger, West Lyon; R Rebecca Miller, Valley; Brad R Moline. Manson Northwest Webster; Webster; Jill Phillips, Montezuma; Cody Purdum, Crestland-Creston; Anna Riesselman, Carroll Area; Brad Ritter, Charles City; Carmen D Southridge; Carl James Rivir, East Meeker. Midland; Mark M Mueller. Valmeyer; Sarah J Noble; Jessica Jodee Muench, Cissna M Robey, Western; R Ruppel. North Manchester; Alexander Schaefer, Hope; Tina F Park: Joel Musser. Pearl City; Jayna Schebler, South Ripley; Troy Ohnemus. Payson; Nate Olson. Seneca: Gregory Edward Pritchard. Schipper. North Miami; Jennifer Hinckley-Big Rock; Philip L Read. Campbell. Owsley County; Richard J Dale Carman. Breckinridge County: Stuart. Walnut; Jason Thole. Cameo John Matthew Chaliff Rockcastle Jolene Toney. . Shideler, Eastbrook; Deborah Simon, M Midland; Kathi Reed, Rochelle; Jade Huntington North; Christina Pope County; Kreg Ruhl. Galva; Nathan Apel Sasse, Huntington North; Joni Sprunger, South Adams; Michael Joseph Lincoln; Nicole Seggebruch, Cissna Stillwell. Clinton Prairie; Elissa Robinson, Park; Sarah Elizabeth Smith. Vemon: Karl R Damn Mount Steiner. Cissna Park; Thies. Trico; James Weisenberger. Liberty; Waterloo: Eugene Wild, R Wulf. Abingdon; David B Sorg, Nathan G; Ann Woodley, Clarion-Goldfield; County; John Thomas Cole. Fulton KANSAS: Amanda County; Darren Depp. Barren Sue Anstine. Rose Coslett. Chaparral; Dustin Clint Hardy, Apollo; Alan Fray deBoer. Valley Heights; Travis Hubble, Lincoln County; Matthew Neodesha; Jill Casten. Marais des E Doyle, Holton; Kevin D Taufmann, M Jennifer R Figgins, Mankato; Bruce A Goering, County; Jonathan Taylor. Western Moundridge-Hesston; Brent Goss, INDIANA: Nick Adams, Boone; Melissa D Pike R Thieme. Willard Warren Jackson Central; III. Todd Timothy R Karrer. Spencer County; Ron Knott. Apollo; Anthony Fox, Holton; Nick Frankenbery. Quoin; Greg Zick. Iroquois West; Garden City; Robert E Gossen, Hagan Koch. Bourbon County; Matthew R Koch. Bourbon County: Danny Leonard II. Apollo: Hannah Rose Lovell. Muhlenberg South; Bellmont; Faith Turnpaugh. South Neodesha; Sarah B Grant, Arkansas Newton; Craig Weisman. Pike Central; Amy R Welp. Forest Park; City; Marci Jo Grover, North Lee Ann Williams, Fountain Central; Mark Wischmeier, Seymour; Ralph Chaparral; Kurt Kathrens, Holton; Rodney Mercer. Breckinridge Biggs, Cloverdale; Keli Michele County; Joshua Brubaker, Huntington North: Kyle Henry Wischmeier, Brownstown Kempke. Garden City; Matthew Brian Kerr. Iola; Garratt Douglas Bymaster. North Central; Kimberly Montgomery; Azure Clark, Benton Central; Rodney T Copeland, Whiteland; Locke. Arkansas City; Jodi Mason. Chapman; Colleen McNally, South Moore. Butler County; David Murphy, Apollo; David Whiteland: Tyson Crandall, Orleans; Boevers, Wapsie Valley; Tyler Steven Dawson, Heritage; Bolton, Alburnett; Karen Elaine Kevin Michael Days, Dekalb; Trisha D Demerly, Tri-County; Aaron Bolton, Alburnett; Kelli Dunn, Clinton Central; Krista Ann Corey Bailey, Fairfield: Jeffrey Scott Bales, Whiteland; L Beeson. Whiteland; Brian Kent A Berning. Heritage; Scott Robert LYocum, IOWA: Tammy Sue Barnes, Anamosa; Anthony Daniel Andy J Bormann, Central; Adam Loring Amy O'Donoghue, Breckinridge County: Metzinger. Arkansas Jonathan Garrett Oaks. Pendleton Newland, Neodesha; Kelly Vauaghn Overmiller. Smith Center; Bradley D Porter. Holton; Holton; Ryan Roloff, Atchison Emenhiser, Woodlan; Joe Fortman, J Brink, G & G; Clinton S Brown, Crestland-Creston; Waylon Jay Brown, Saint Ansgar; Chad M Woodlan; Josh Gerber, South Carlson, Cascade; Nicole Claeys, Adams; Chris Geswein, North Central; Jaylin Aric Dahlhauser, Bryce Porter. Dwayne Mitcham. Breckinridge County; Richard Kent City: Rick Nelson, Iola; Justin Northeast; Paul Brandt, Oelwein; Echterling, Lakeland; Eric Michael Barry Joe Mallory. Franklin Simpson; Francie McCuiston. Heath: Jefferis. Steve Barber; Jarrod Heath Jackson. Caldwell County; Chapman; Paul Erichsen. Chapman; Altoona; Claudia Central: Kyle Wayne Ingram, Bath County: Elliott. Rushville; Lesley Taulman, Tri- Zettler, Heath; Cygnes Valley; Clint Church. Iola; Jeff Claycamp, Hillcrest; Michael Thomas Clayman, Haven; Bethany Studebaker. Rossville; Daniel Mae Swim. E Dotson. Ryan Drane. Breckinridge County: Jarrod Ryan Fritz. Fleming County: Chris Gabbard. Owsley County; Charles Brent Gatton. Muhlenberg North; John Gibson, Todd Central: Arkansas City; David Bosch, Devlin, Smith Center; Scott South Adams; Denise County; Jason Julie Barker, J Cloverdale; Timothy Du G& Logan County; Bethanie Clark. Apollo; Kelly Rae Clark, Jessamine Walther, Stuckey, North Daviess; Jesse Sturgeon. Hagerstown; Matt Subler. Amy A D County; Nicholas Joe Christian. Wenger, Wapsie Valley; Grant Jordan Arkansas City; Schwartz. South Adams; Charlie Brandon Butler, Spencer County; Kelsey Stansberry, Linn-Mar; Grant Lamoni: Loren Truelsen, Central; Midwest Central: Josh Merdian. W Colesburg; Matt Seuffham, Algona; Starmont; Valmeyer; Daniel Ballard, Jessamine County; James Matthew Marie Schulte, Edgewood- american FFA degree County: Jeremy Madison Southern: Ashley Drake Bibb, Logan County; Jessica Lee Blankenship, South Laurel; Chad Derek Bratcher, Butler County; Barret Miller Brown, Logan County; Barrett Brown. Todd Central: Brandon Brown. Logan County: Carey Ann Brown, Bourbon County; Earl James Brown. Greenup County; Kurt Jason Brown. Fulton County; Kenneth Holton Burdme. Ball, Breckinridge Webster; Bonnie Lohf, Belle Plaine; J County; Kristin Danielle Pollock. Breckinridge County: Lisa Jordan Powell, Henderson County: Wesley E Purcell, Bourbon County; MISSOURI: Katie Ralph. Scott County: Michael Jamie Marie Gasper. Saranac; Jaclyn Fronning. Fergus Falls; Robert County; H C Fronning, Fergus Falls; Jeff Gartner. Acklin, Nodaway-Holt; Joshua Rider. Central Hardin; Lisa Carol Abby Godley. Breckenridge; M Melanie D E Butler Robbins. Breckinridge Gordon, Saline; Shannon Harris, County; Jason Dale Royalty. Central Ovid-Elsie; Walter Joseph Iciek, Hardin; Sarah Nicole Sallee, Central Gladwin; Dean Shepherd, Prestonsburg; Christi Shawn Laingsburg; Corrine Karsten. Lake-Waverly-Winsted; Nancy Guse, Archie; Troy Joseph Bader, Laingsburg; Jennifer Marie Lee. Maple Campbell; Katherine Baker, West MacCray-KMS; Nicholas Ronald Plains; Hartwig, Waconia; Barbara Heinze. Valerie Hardin; Zethaniel Amanda Karsten, Stafford, Jessamine County; Jeffrey Laingsburg; Jennifer Lyn Leininger. Carl Stamper, Wolfe County; Waldron; Joshua Bradley Eric Stephen, Apollo; Katie Elsie; Brian M Stinnett, Jessamine County; John Perry; Dennis D Miller, Ovid- Michael Passalacqua, L Maple River; James Gerdes, Mountain Lake; Holly Marie Geyer, Alig, Pleasant Hill R-III; Benson; Dan Glessing, Howard Ash, California; Josh Atkinson, River; Melissa Harms, Belgrade-Brooten-Elrosa: Shelly E Hesse, Chaska; Matthew David Peterson, D Hill. Adam Arnold, El Dorado Springs; Michael L Todd Banner, Eldon; Kae Barker, Liberal; Greg Baumann, Savannah; Keith Baxter, Logan-Rogersville; Clint Behm. Adam Bieri. T Blair, Salem; Todd Central; Joseph John Tabor, Todd Central; Neil Alan Taylor, Owsley County; Roy Justin Cassopolis; Lisa Posthumus, Lowell; Career Center; Peter Julius Remenar, Hoen, Waconia; Wendy Anne Jasper. Taylor. Fulton County; Willie Ovid-Elsie; Martin Corliss LeRoy-Ostrander; Brian Joyer, Thompson. Fleming County; Robert E Todd II, Henderson County; Raglena E Turpin. Madison Central; Dustin Matthew Vinson, Caldwell Schlicher. Laingsburg; Phillip Smith. Forest Lake; Laingsburg; Sara Springsteen. Kidrowski. Willmar; Raymond H Blevins, Lakeland; Daniel L Bockhold, Dexter; Meredith Ann Booth, Columbia; Melissa L Boston, Slater; Amanda County; Erin Briana Woodall. Scott Joan VanDenBrink. Coopersville; Patrick Tabor, County; LOUISIANA: Barron. Saline; B J Jacob Talton Hood. Saline; Lori Ann Preston. Branch Area Tyson Kenneth Dowagiac; Jacqueline Swihart. Vicksburg; Amy Tomasek. Byron; Sherry Walter. Ovid-Elsie; Nicholas Jon Wendhng. New Lothrop; Blue Earth; Tiffany Adam Hill, Willmar; Hill, Willmar; Tony Mandy Marie Dawn Marie Sweet Springs; California; Lancer Klucas. Benson; Nathan Kuball, Bowles, Miller; Daniel Bowles, Waterville-Elysian-Morristown; North Central Area Vo-Tech; Eric Shannon Kuball. Waterville-ElysianMorristown; Joni Kunz, Maple River; Kara E Ladlie, Albert Lea; Brandt, Linn; J Dustin Braschler, Doniphan; Heath Brooks, Holden; Chad Michael Brotherton. amencan J Lammers, Southland; Richie Laumann, Waconia; Darin Madson. Glenville; Hector Matthys. Peter M Lakeview; Dan M McClurg, USC; Orlend Henry Menze Greenfield: Keith Brueggemann, Union; Seth Bruffett. Jasper; Jeffrey M T Buckman. Audrain County R-VI; Luke II, Minnewaska; Andrew J Meuleners, Watertown-Mayer; David Moritz, Elk River; David Nelson. Norman Burbank, Brookfield; Michael Casey, Thayer; Joel B Clark. Versailles; Stephen Claypool, Ashland; Nancy County West; Sara Obermoller, Nichole Cope. Montgomery Sioux Valley-Round Lake-Brewster; 2; Co R- Korissa Cox, North Harrison; Ty Amy Brandi Olson. Blue Earth; Chris Aaron Crain, Eldon; Ovrebo. Norman County West; Rick Cribbs, Pleasant Hope; Brian Sue W Rauenhorst, Blue Earth; Jarred Cunningham, Milan; Travis Cunningham, Marion County; Addie Walter Rotz, Elk River; Aaron Michele Davis, Chillicothe; Jennifer Rudningen. MacCray-KMS; Scott Davis, Puxico; Runge, St James; Amanda Kay Davis, Van-Far R-l; Daisey Proehl, A Robb A Lynn Brown, Edward Chillicothe; Jennifer Maple River; Paul Mary Elizabeth Sazama. Perham; Rita Marie Diederich. Ashland; Joshua David Schaefer, Frazee-Vergas; Jennifer Dix, Tipton; Audrey Scharpe, Sibley East; Kelly Grove; Brandon Duff, Buffalo; Kyle Raymond D Schmidt. Tracy; Michael L Dixon, Ash W Durham, Norborne; Robert Jeremy L Ellis, Elkins. Doniphan; Jason Philip Richard. Central Claire Wentz, Corunna; Rachel David Fulda; Stacy Soderstrom, Mora; Maysville; Joe Ellison, Brookfield Mark Theodore Sommerfeld, Sleepy R-3; Crystal Eye; Trescha S Steeke, Perham; Cory Erwin, Nevada; Dana Kay Farmer. Polo; Jason Lee Foland, Lafourch; Donnie Toms. Saline; Weyer. Lapeer Vo-Tech; Erica Layne Vincent, Midland; Weyer, Lapeer Vo-Tech; John MAINE: Whitmore, Ithaca; Aaron Hill; Isle; Nicholas T McCrum, Mars Taylor Lee Putnam Jr. Presque Ryan Clyde Shaw, Mars Hill; Kenneth Stewart, Presque MARYLAND: Tammy Isle; Sue Green, Catoctin; Diane Elizabeth Ogg. Frederick; Jennifer Suzanne Seiss. Catoctin; Jessica Lorraine Troxell. Catoctin; Mark Richard Catoctin; MICHIGAN: Valentine, Williams, Homer; Jessica Williams, St Louis; M Mae MINNESOTA: Angela Bakeberg, Howard LakeWaverly-Winsted; Brad Baumgardt, Sleepy Eye; Teresa Berg, Norman Scott, Tracy; Jason Smith. Sheldon W Stevermer, USC; Dean W Traver, Waconia; Nichole Tyrrell, Staples-Motley; Adam Worth Co; Nathan Forkner. Nevada; Joseph Golden, Cole County- Volz, Eugene; Jack Graham, Salem; MacCray-KMS; Lorene F Wegscheid, Perham; Angie LeAnn Emory. Salem; B Weis, Joseph Allen Graham. Memphis; W Grass. Ste Genevieve; County West; Bernhard M Birr, Maple River; Brent Lynn Braaten, Worthington; Holly Richard Charles Green Minnewaska; Daniel Caughey, Belgrade-Brooten-Elrosa; Tracy Jeff Pine Island; Aaron Widboom, Ann Wildman, Ronnie II, Memphis: Grimm, Aurora; Brian Joseph Daniel Hand. Brainerd; Connie Lynn Cihlar, Winter, Fulda; Matthew J Wolle, St Hagg, North James; Kelly Sue Zenk, Murray Eldon; Sarah Hans, Montgomery Bloomer, Unionville-Sebewaing; Minnewaska; Natasha Cronen, Benson; Jeremy Dabcrkow, County Central; Christina L Zutz, R-2; Alan Harris. California; James Carrie Chrisinske, Byron; Liz Southwest Star Concept; Laurie Eric- Anderson. St Louis; Russell Confer, Perry; Elizabeth Lenawee Vo Tech ; L Conrad. Jennifer Daniels, Whittemorc-Prescott; Kelly Davis, Ithaca; Matt Wesley Davis, Ithaca; Carrie Dillon, North Stephanie M Adams; Eickholt, New Kimball: MISSISSIPPI: Michael Garrett Hawkins. Appleton City; Delaney, Perham; Bradley Blue, West Jones; Katrina Rachelle Hawks. Greenfield; River; Buckhaults, South Jones; Kenny Amanda Matthew Johnson, Netleton; Erin Noll, Lawrence County; Charles E Raybum, Lawrence County; Courtney Amber Scoggin, Newton Municipal Career Michelle Hellwig, Appleton City: Scott Chad Domino, Elk Darren Wayne Fank. Bold; M Fank. Bold; Jessica Fettig, Minnewaska; Lisa Fischer, Maple Becca R Friesen, USC; Brad River; Lothrop; A Platte; Fronning. Fergus Falls; Mathew Hall, Nettleton; Anne Markham Heard, Slater; Dana Jeremy Henderson, Gallatin; Tina Mae Hensley, Sarcoxie; Johnathan R Hesemann, Owensville; David Heusing, Pleasant Hope; Joseph B Center; Elizabeth Smith, South Hibdon, Versailles; Christie Panola; John Smith, South Hieber, El Panola; Shane Speights, Lawrence Co A Hill, L Dorado Springs; Nicholas Sweet Springs; ; Amanda Marie Hocker, Pleasant R-1II; Amanda Hofmann, North Hill Harrison: Levi Holmes, Wheaton; Quincy Honan, Northwest Technical School: David Hope, Cole Camp; L Hopkins, Magnet East; Hope Hopkins. Fair Play; Timothy Horn, Stet; Benjamin R Columbia; Andrew Jacob Rohrbach, Chinook; California; Katie Rooney, Denton; Martha Jo Ostendorf. Miles Chillicothe; Tiffany Nicole Rouse, City; Justin William Overcast. Houston; Jason Russell, Brookfield Chinook; Duane R-3; Christopher Lee Ryan, Milan; Annie Lynn Rein, Big Timber; Eric A Schalk, Cameron; Aaron Julie Lynnetc Melton C Ray, Big Sandy; Robinson, Shields Valley; Shaundra Sheri Beth Tiffany Schmidt, Hermann; Anthony Schaff, Stillwater Valley; George Schulze, Warrenton; Kyle Search, Schallenberger, Carter County; Brad Huber, Golden City: Michelle Lyn Hull, Van-Far; C Brooks Hurst. Tarkio; Correy Jackson, Marshall; Trevor Jenkins, Rich Hill; Brian Johnson. Savannah; Justin Johnson. M Jones, California: Lebanon; Caleb John D R Kennedy Halfway; Susan Jr, Kennedy, Pleasant Hill R-III: Schreiner, Chillicothe; Megan K Milan; Heather Adams. Scottsbluff: Heath Terry Shepherd, Aurora; Brad Alan Lucas Ahrens, Ravenna; Bryce Shockley, Buffalo; James Keith Anderson. Gothenburg; Melanie Monroe City R-l; Jamie Simmons, New Bloomfield; Paul Shortridge, M Newman Thomas Smith. Chillicothe; Jason Baumert, Howells-Clarkson; Eric Grove; Aaron Kincaid, Stet; Crystal L Koelling, Hermann; Travis Alan Trenton; Brady Smotherman, Holt; Aric Nevada; Casey Spencer, DeKalb; Julie Kramme. Owensville; Brian E Kraus, Memphis; Douglas Kueker, Bobby Spoonster, Warrenton; Kent Sweet Springs; Matt Kueker, Strange. Salem; Jared Struzick, L Lebo. Salem; Robbie Lefevre, Bronaugh; Crystal Libbert. New Bloomfield; Brooke Linebaugh, North Nodaway; Luke Linnenbnnger. North Callaway; Cari Livengood. North Nodaway: Jennifer Lynne Logue, Archie; Stephen Lowes, Perryville; Luke Mahsman. Amy Mound Mound City; Platte: Masoner, North Brian Matthews, Cole Weatherly. Aurora; McClellan. Carthage; Glenn Thomas Mona Gayle Mease. Galena; Dadeville; Hill R-III; Amy Mandy Caleb Melton, Melton, Wormington, Monett; Mount Vernon; City; Kelvin Lloyd Robert Morgan, Memphis; Gary Don Hill: A Frahm-Farrall. Aaron John Franzen. Gothenburg: Bnanne Freeman. Ord: Brian Arthur Yardley, Fayette; Nancy Timothy E Friesen. Heartland; Travis Yates, Monroe City R-l Friesen, Heartland: C Yokley, Bronaugh R-7; Kevin Young. Halfway; Summer Fritz. Brady Marie Wilber-Clatonia; Erin Angela Fujan, Prague; Cory Allen Furstenau, Neligh-Oakdale; Nicole Young. Sarcoxie; Kenneth Clay Ryan A Morris, Deanne Kaye Moss. Mark Blue Charles Wuertley. Summersville; Lynn Mound Jim Fanta, St Paul; Craig Fix, Norris; Heidi Joshlin Yoder, North Shelby; Randall Keith Miller, Davis. Heidi Erickson, Ravenna; Jim Fanta. Dadeville; Brent Meyer, Lewis Miller, Versailles; Dan Matthew Dickinson. Seward; Dustin St Paul: County C-l; Jamie Miller, Aurora; Diller; Chappell: Bryan Deaver. Ansley; Bloomfield; Jeremy Elder, Fairbury; Alex Hill R-III; Wright. M Crocker. Republican Valley; Derrick Wood, North Shelby; McLagan. Pleasant Coufal. Howells-Clarkson: Dobesh, East Butler: Curtis G Dowding. Palmyra; Neal E Dueker. Bayard; Kyle David Eisenhauer. Elizabeth Ellis Cole. R McEwen, North David R Matthew Cox. Norfolk; Cindy Regan Wolgamott. East Newton; Emily McGill, Dadeville; Brandon Howard R Steve Damrow. McDonald, Mount Vernon; Jeremy Shelby: Curtis Bow; Leigha Marie North Bend; Anthony Collins. Amber R Westhues, Glasgow; Keith B Wingard, Pleasant Bush. Gothenburg; Jeff Cook, Kimball: Braden Turner. Grundy County R-V; Brandi Nicole McCann. Mount Vernon; Lizzi E Republican Valley: Sheryl Colgan. Shawn Michael Van Adrian R-III; Carmen Nichole Vandegrift, Everton; Hill; Sally Cline, Franklin: Nathan Smithville; Sandt. Brooks. Republican Valley; Clarke, Broken City; Kyle Tubbs. County-Eugene; James Caleb May, Brooks, Republican Valley; D Jamie Carlson, Chappell: Christy L Timmerberg, Tubbs. Bill Brandt, Tri County; Franklin; Christopher Caddy. Sutton; Mount Vernon; Brian R Tarr, Norborne; Tim Thomas, Memphis; Bradley Thompson, Ste Genevieve; Lance Harding Thompson, Maysville R-l: Ben Martin, St Clair; Mason. Hardin-Central; D Wade Brester, Howells-Clarkson; Burken, Blue Sullivan, W Hermann; Michael Tipton. Macon; Mark Triplett. Memphis: Carrie Kendra Gail Jeff M Keith Cameron; Timothy Sutton, Gilman City; Crystal Lea Swihart, Russellville; Trisha Boettcher, Charlote Brugman. Palmyra: Erik Palmyra; Aaron Bradley Marshall, Clint David A M Stoumbaugh, Richland; Tracy Pleasant Hill R-III; Amy West Holt; Annie Boettcher, West Salem; Matthew Scott Smith. Polo; Jessica L Beard, Superior; Randy Benson. Woodland: Jackie Skipper, Sitze, M Anderson, Lyons-Decatur; Joe Vincent Neil Kerperien. Campbell; Marshall; Matthew Charles Learner. NEBRASKA: Wright, Cascade; Seufert, Smithville; LeRoy E Geisler. Ravenna; Glenda Dana Gill. Morris, Eldon; Youngblood, Carthage; Blooomfield; Jon Graham. Stanberry; MONTANA: Randolph; Joni Griess. Sutton: Kyle Twain; Crystal G Nickles, Salem; Ronnie Nix, Mountain Grove; Null, TJ Woodland; Jeff O'Neal, Hardin-Central; Catherine Gilman City; Tracy M Pardun, Renee Parkhurst, North Harrison; Matt L Parpart, Archie; Jeremy Pendleton, Mount Chris Bengochea. Culbertson; Turk Bossert, Park; Levi Costello, Shields Valley; Kelly Christopher Hain. Seward; Ginger Hartman. Imperial: Simon Haumont. Brinkerhoff, Stevensville; Garrett Broken Bow; Bradley Rae J Hilfiker, Dodge. Park; Christie Flechsenhar, Hartington: Troy Hilligas. Hampton: Cascade; Kelly Fosbery, Flathead; Tyson Tandi Fulbright, Denton; John Christopher Loren Huber. Sutton: Douglas Goodheart, Conrad; Adam Cody J J Holm. Gothenburg; Hudson. Imperial: Brian Vernon; Brian Petty, Archie; Justin Tyler Grigsby, Conrad; Joni Hula. East Butler: Darcy Hynek. Michael Pollard, Polo; Chad Porter, Hendricks, Carter County; Tenneil Fairbury; Logan-Rogersville; Robin Renee Denise Hirsch, Miles City; Jason Norfolk; Kimberly Jo Jelken. Poss, Richmond; Christina Marie Ben Renner, East Newton; Jeffery A Riley, Hermann; Nick Robertson, New Madrid Co AVTS; Brandy Robison, Williams Jimmerson, Conrad; Ben Reints, Sarcoxie; Floyd Larson, Columbus; Kimberly Polo; Kelley Christine Rohlfing, Ann Leslie, Miles City; Mitzi Liddle, J Franklin: Margo Marie Irish. Randy L Jensen. Hampton: Josh Johnson. Hampton; Lukas David Jones. Falls City: Ethan Joy. Nebraska City; Stacy Ann Julesgard, V Northwest; John Juricek, Crete; Jason Kassmeier, Scribner-Snyder; Jess R Kirchhoff, Syracuse-Dunbar- Avoca; Jason Paul Knott, Newman Schuyler; Aaron Wissenburg, Lucia Upchurch, Bartlett Yancey; Newman Justin Waller, South Grove; Kristina Marie Lisbon; Luke Meyer, Lisbon; Melissa Montgomery, Carrington; Woita. Northwest; Ryan Wollberg. Stephen Willis, Bartlett Yancey; Lee Novak, Minot; Jonathan Qual. Scribner-Snyder; Annie Zabokrtsky. NORTH DAKOTA: Lisbon; Shane Allen Reardon, A Zimmerman, Tri NEVADA: Jessica Rae Fairbury; Chad Grove; Dustin Koch, Gothenburg; County; Greg Koinzan. Neligh-Oakdale; Mason Valley; Jennifer Ruby Mountain; Joseph Andrew Chantrill, Silver Sage; Jay Allen. Matthew S Kreifels, SyracuseDunbar-Avoca; Zebulon S Kreifels, Syracuse Dunbar Avoca; Lucas J Krysl. West Holt; Colin Jacob Rowan; Ronnie Bieroth. Dalton, Wells; Julia Lee Derobertis, Douglas; Rosey Hoskin, Douglas; Diamond Ryan Ames, Lisbon; Lorissa Benson. Maddock; Ryan Bernstein, Bottineau; Amy Bertelsen. Wahpeton; Garrett Leon Bladow. Wahpeton; Amie Buck, Wahpeton; Joshua Bummer. Divide County; Royce Carlson. Jamestown; Jeff Erbes. Wyndmere; Christopher S Medina; KariAnn Love Seeger, Turtle Lake-Mercer; Jon S Solberg, Minot; Adam Spelhaug. Kindred; Kay Teigien. Rugby; Tammy Lynn Weigum, Beulah; William F White III. Turtle LakeMercer; OHIO: Rau Adae, Jennifer M Altstaetter. Kubik. Cambridge; Moranda Kujath, Stephanie Jordan. Kumke. Blue Hill; Kerin Kuszak. St Paul; Bobby Larson. Leigh; Dale Eugene Joseph Lassek, Genoa; Robyn Loseke. Mountain; Troy Jordan, Diamond Divide County; Mike Hauschild. Benjamin Logan; Matthew Mountain; Ben McKnight, Silver Wahpeton; Renae Joy Heinle, Andrews, Miami Trace; Justin Medina; Allen Johnson, Wyndmere; Angle. Elida; Sage; Jaime Ordonez, Silver Sage; Kenneth Leigh; Melissa Sue Lytle. Wauneta; Marsha Sarman, Christopher Scott Maas. Scribner-Snyder; Jessica Melissa Shue. Mason Valley; L Mager. Melissa Elizabeth Stockton. Fairbury; Justin Allen Wilber-Clatonia; Erik Mahanes. Nebraska City; Megan McCord. A Sage; Davida Frederic Meyer, St Paul; Heather RaeAnn Nash. Silver Silver Sage; RaeLynn Stoddard, Wahpeton; Grant Haugland. H Jordan. Rugby; J Jorde. Towner; Kelly Junker, Medina; Erika Jo Kenncr. Mason Leeds; Aaron Alan Kleingartner, Blanchester; Elizabeth D Matthew Ross; Jeff Bader. Bloom A D Arnold. Carroll; Jason Bailey, Northridge; Devin Andrew Baker, Elmwood; Rebekah Baker. Carrollton; Mark D C Gackle-Streeter; Erica Knell, Hazen; Baldwin. Greenfield-McClain; Brian Sage; William Flint Wright. Wells; Brad Kohoutek. Wahpeton; Nicholis W Ball. Mount Vernon; Megan NEW HAMPSHIRE: Leinen. Wahpeton; Eric Mairs. Barker. Valley; Fairbury; Christopher Falk. Silver Elizabeth Madison Plains; Lacy Lynn amencan Mihus. Fairbury; Jennifer Miller, R Broken Bow; Jason MEXICO: Ann Munderloh. Leigh; Karleen Academy; Kaiser, Pinkerton Mullenhoff. NEW Marshall Alan Baker, Texico; Kelly Benavidez, Clayton; Scribner-Snyder; Kristin Nollette, Casey LeAnn Cunningham, Capitan; Cody-Kilgore; Bryan Nun, Geneva; Chris Daugherty, Alamogordo: Dena' Rae Olson. Franklin; Jeffrey Janelle Olson. Genoa; James Oltman. Jeremy Eby, Thoreau: DeVonna Wilber-Clatonia; Heidi Marie Oman. La Dawn Duffey. Roswell; Gatlin, Cliff; Reggie Guy, Artesia; Superior; Gale Paulsen, Chappell; Jake Hill. Artesia; Kelly Gary Paulsen. Chappell; Tony John Clayton; Darla Mayes. Carlsbad: Paulsen. Chappell; Adam D Gregory J Peters, Blue Hill; Pavelka, V Pirtle. Wauneta; Kevin Pfeiffer. Max Moya. Pickhinke, Howells-Clarkson; Mindy Brandon Pohlmann. County; Kelli Lynn Rahn. West J Jones. Belen; Shyanne Jay Ryan Malcolm Peterson, Animas; Heartland; Travis Petrick, Ansley; Eric Roswell; Kimberly Ann Ray, Los Lunas; Christopher Scott. Artesia; Damon Kyle Talbott. Plueger, Allen; Roswell: Teresa Trujillo. Artesia; Tri Toni Elizabeth Utton, Aztec; Will Holt; Aron Rasmussen. St Paul; Jami Reinsch. Geneva; Joni Lee Renz. Waller, Roswell; NEW YORK: Jackie Anderson, Greenville Central; Superior; Heath Ruf. Cambridige; Katie Lynn Bear, Greenville Central; Jim R Ruggles. Republican Valley; Christy Rebecca Rusch, Scottsbluff; Central; Richard Anthony W Russell, Holdrege; A Bensen, Greenville M Burke, Schuylerville; Douglas Burleson, Matthew E Run. Blue Hill; Lisa Schaneman. Scottsbluff; Jared Stockbridge Valley: Tiffany A Drape, Madison: Chase Howard. D Schemper, Holdrege; Minnie Ruth Franklinville; Jaclyn Schmeckpeper, Bloomfield; Timothy Greenville Central; Marcy John Schneider, Cody-Kilgore; Quackenbush, Penn Yan; Windy S Kropp, Ann Jennifer Schriner, Wilcox; Dustin Rosiczkowski. South Lewis; Bryan Schroeder, Diller; Nathan Lee James Zielenieski, Pioneer; Schwab. Sierks, Tri County; Joshua W Slagle, Norns; Jacob Sargent; Tammy CAROLINA: D Randolph; Kevin T Omar Chase; Eric Jeremy Central; Christopher Stuart. Nebraska City; Chris Genoa; Mary Grove: Paul C Timm, Newman Uerling, Republican Valley: Lindsay Hill: Lori Watermeier, Syracuse-Dunbar- Avoca; Benjamin W Wertman, White. Broken Bow; Beverly Duplin; Bradley Ray Gorman, South Rowan; Becky Lynn Hines, South Lenoir; Johnny Michael Jessup, Lakewood; Misty Dawn Lambert, South Rowan; James Lanier, East Duplin; Jessica Ruth Lima, North Palmyra; Kendra Wesely, Milford; D J Ann Lenoir; Anthony Rich Marshall, Union; Lyndsie A Muirhead, Union; Wicht. Ravenna: Ryan Wiese, Tri Jenise Ruth Smith, County; Joshua Merle J Wilshusen, III. South Rowan; Brent Davis, North Lyons- Decatur; Corey Twohig, Wilcox; Joel L Waechter, Blue R Cauley North Lenoir; Vanessa Corriher, Tejral, Tri County; Tim Thompson, Bradley, Burleson. Harnett Hyannis; Brian Steffen. Hartington; Tejral, NORTH Clark Adams, South Rowan; Kasey Austin, Eastern Sue Stangle. amencan FFA degree C B Kittrell Terry, Aycock; Person County; ^can ffa l Hathaway, Greenville; Paul Hays. Schwendeman Mapleton: Michael Barrett. Eaton; Molly Heal. Wilmington: Seward, Mount Vernon; Jason Sharp, Chad Marysville: Brian Beach. Kenton; Jana Lee Hess, Lynchburg Clay; Jake Beathard. Madison Plains; William Hodge. Mechanicsburg: Wellington; Kyle Shepherd, Upper Miranda Elayne Grissorn, Prague: George Grossman, Chouteau; George Grossman, Chouteau: Heidi Gum. Guymon; Jimmie Haffner, Robert Beekman, Talawanda; Keith Roger Hogue, Tri-Valley; Nathan Hohman, Hopewell-Loudon; Scioto Valley; Lance Shirer, Tri- Cashion; Charles Hale, Sterling; Valley; Joe Siefring, Fort Recovery; Heath Hamil, Cashion; Lori Nicole Mount Gilead; John Huss. Woodmore; Mike Gary Small, Northridge; Michelle Smathers, London; Lisa Smith, Hamilton, Shattuck; Kathryn L Barnes. Evergreen: Barr, Henry Benedict. Beeler. Talawanda; Charisse Lynn Howard. Warren; Emily Brin Bisdorf, Centerburg; Mike Black. Fairbanks; Brandon Michael Blair, J Benjamin James. Wayne Trace; Carrie Jr. Warren; Brice Sentinel Tiffin; Daren M Sheffield, Hillsdale; Rodney Smith. Wauseon; Ann Smith, Centerburg; Logan; Ann Boerger. Fairbanks; Jennings. Western Brown; Jeff Stephanie Nate Boerger. Fairbanks; Dale Kahle, Kalida; Rachel Keener. Michelle Lee Snyder, Evergreen; Bohman. Versailles; Lisa Bolender. Western Brown; Joe Boler, Western Brown; Mark W Bonnett, Firelands; Kevin Sox, United; Austin Specht, Kiowa; Stephen Helzer. ThomasFay-Custer; Carrie Liberty Union; Alexander: Jessica Brown, Ross; Heather Amy Kingsborough. Wilmington; Fort; Misti Kiser, Dawn Miami East; Knisley. Greenfield- Northridge; Blane Stoller, W Strahler, Miami McClain; Neal Knueven. Leipsic: Plains; Steven Benjamin Kramer. Eaton; Daniel Trace; Greg Strausbaugh, Bowling Green; Mark Kramer. Eaton; Michael Taylor Madison J Kroeger. Plains; Josh Caplinger, Blanchester; Lincolnview; Robert Carl Krueger, Matthew Adam Carey, East Clinton: Utica; Christian Lyn LaRoche, Wayne Trace: Chris Stoughton, Madison M Burns. Fairbanks; Brian A Busch. Call, Andrew Elmwood: Jordan, Tahlequah; Clint Justus, Caney; Rusty Kemp. Adair; Matt Matthew Thayer. Edison; Mike Thiel. Ridgedale; Jeremy Tomlin. Ohio Valley Kinslow. Prague; Dustin Westfall; Georgetown: Henry Leitnaker, Brice P Carroll, Wauseon; Nicki Lancaster; Jason Castanien. Upper Sandusky; Andrea Plains; Bradley Christman, Buckeye Trail; Cluff. III. Addam Buckeye Valley: Jack Coates R Kirk. Tipton: Wayne Marshall Kristie Lea Wilson, Symmes Valley; Kimberly K Woodard, Teays Valley; Ryan Wulber, Checotah; Tyler Mantz. Alva; Troy Don Marshall, Harrah; Kent K McCarty, Emalee Acre, Canton; Derek Agan, Thomas-Fay- Joshua Edgar McDonald, Atoka; Brian Mclntyre. Temple: Cody McMurphy. Alva; David Miller. Justin Blackford, Chouteau; Joan McElfresh-Latimer. Mid-East; Boyett, Elk City; Amanda Kay Lyons. H Mann. Woodland; Matthew Martin, Alva; Julie Versailles; Ohio Valley Vocational; Mike McClaskie, Madison Plains; Natalie Gilead; Jay Lohmann. Freedom; James Lott. Benton Homer Marrow, Heavener; Kenneth Wolf, Pymatuning; Corrington. Preble Shawnee; Holly Mount Linville, Custer; Melissa Custer; Joel Alexander, Sweetwater; Craig, Ridgedale; Kaye Lewis. Byng; Travis Spiro; Jamie Marie Liston, Moore; Alva; Cory Lovelace. Thomas-Fay- Greenfield-McClain; Eric McCann, Andrew Jana Lynn Lewis, Fairland; Janesa Brock Weston, Ridgedale; Brad Wilhelmy. Northwestern-Wayne: OKLAHOMA: Matthews, Ward, Angela Warnock. Elgin: Northwestern-Clark; Tina Mathias, Plains; Josh M Seth Wenger. Benjamin Logan; Monroe; Meredith Massy, Madison Roger Knauss. Carnegie; Matt Landwehr. Chisholm; Tri inner, R Adam Jacob Bohl, Chattanooga; Jennifer Landon Brady, Antlers; Matt McClellan, Elk City; Indianola; Daniel Moore. Chouteau: David Mosburg, Thomas-Fay- Danell Cress, Madison Plains; Darin Pearlann Hutton McNichols, Liberty Freedom; Hal Brame, Antlers; Cron, Miami East; Ryan Crooks. Union; Laura B Meier, Jeffrey Hardin Northern; Travis West Cupp. Mississinawa; Ashleigh Rebecca Brecheen. Coalgate; William Calvin Miller. Liberty Union; Claire Miller, Buchanan. Pawnee; Trey Margaretta; Jon David Miller. Carothers. Indiahoma; Liberty Union; Malinda Miller. Castleberry, Chickasha; Ashley National Trail; Laura Leigh Dengler. River View; Rusty Edward Miller, Caulk, Hennessey; Jackie Jo Chaney. Blackwell; Michelle Lea Edgewood/BCJVSD; Nick Licking Valley; Tony Miller, Copan; Shelley Choate, Hennessey; (Tripp), Blackwell; Trace; Meriah Miller- Wenger, Erik Christensen. Thomas-Fay- Battiest; Benjamin Logan; Brad Nicol, Custer; Kelly Christensen, Peach, Hennessey: Seth Reeves, Nolan, Western Reserve: ThomasFay-Custer; Jodi Cinnamon, Garber; Cory Clark, Miami; Stephen Thomas Nowels, West Holmes; Clark, Burlington; Acie Joe Conrad Prague; Michael David Richards. Lancaster; Jason R Dallas, Laurel Oaks; Daniel E Davis. Madison Plains; Matthew Howard Deaton. Upper Sandusky; Jeremy Derr, Deter, Arlington: Keith Anthony Diedrick, Keystone; Craig Matthew Draper, Hillsdale; Brett R Fairbanks; Derek Nicol, Fairbanks; Jeremy Edger, Greenville; Egbert. Anna; Lisa-Marie Ehlerding, Wilmington; Hannelore Gretchen Adrienne L Eichhorn. Liberty Union; Rhyan Lee D C R Brant, Sallisaw; Josh A Custer; Derrick Musgrove, Chattanooga; Laramie Alan Joe Navrath. Cushing; Travis Nipp. Turner; Jeremy Odenwald. Billings: LeaAnn M Cope, Tipton; Shanda Robyn Oliver. Hennessey: Ott, Fairview; Bryan Neal Overman. Overman Suzanne Parsons. Jon Patton, Kiowa: Derek Bryan Reinschmiedt, Latta; Hennessey; Ernest Scott Reynolds. Matt Oestreich. Elmwood; Jake II, Osborn. Lynchburg-Clay; Bradley S Jonathan Dale Cornelius, Carter; Sommer Casey Brent Cox, Elgin; Jason Brooke Rockenbach, Burlington; Miami East; Jacob Ott, National Trail; Curtis Eilenfeld, Lucas; Kevin Dale Eichhorn, Wayne Wade Spiro; Joshua Roland; Isaac Richardson. Arapaho: Kendall Robbins. Navajo: Pahl, Carey; Kelly J Parkhurst, Crawford, Thomas-Fay-Custer; Ashley Ryel. Aline-Cleo: Tiffany Endslow, Loudonville; Brian Ennis, Margaretta: Brad Pfeiffer. Buckeye Michael Dale Crossland. Grandtield; Sanders, Sweetwater; Bill Alexander: David Career Center; Ryan Phipps, Ohio J Ertl, Northwestern-Wayn; Bill Feikert, Wayne County; Andrew D Parkway; Daniel R Fent, Finfrock, Tecumseh; Ben Fitzgerald, Madison Plains; Greg Fortkamp, Fort Recovery; Robert H Fredritz II, Carey; Darla Grace French, Wellington; Buckeye Deanna Lynn Trail; Fuller, Wendy Funderburgh, Miami East; Jason Paul Green. Westfall; Edward Triad; Matt Gearhardt, David Gruber, United; Kelli M Haneberg, Buckeye; Frances M Hamilton, Carrollton; Kevin Valley; Jason Christopher Sheridan North; Amy Poorman, Porteus. River Scott. D Lexington; Sharber. Sapulpa: Cullen Neil Shaw. Antlers; Brian Simic. Garber; Brandi Lachelle Smallwood, Antlers; Reynolds. Elmwood; Shanna Timmy Smith, Medford; LaRena Smith. Ridgedale; Darrick B Dvorak, Pawnee; Blake Scott Edwards, Seiling; Melissa Okeene; Amber Nicole Riggs, Farris, Ferrell, Marysville; Dennis Roell, Preble Burlington: Bart Fischer, Shawnee; Christopher Rufenacht, Buckeye Career Center; Scott Alan Chattanooga; Darrin Fite, Chad Thomas-Fay-Custer; Scott Sproul. Fairview; Stacy Sproul, Fairview: Scott Stephen Storey, Haworth: Thomas- Cody W Sullins. Billings; Courtney Drummond: Fay-Custer; Tembra Ryan Gatlin, Swart. Mountain View-Gotebo: Jeffrey L Scheckelhoff, Miller City; Greg Lawton; Kelsey Deon Gee, Antlers; Gavin Geminden. Chisholm; Tyler Terrell. Kingfisher: Scott Scheiderer, Fairbanks; Kyle Glover, Elgin; Jeffrey Allen Goode, Perry; Russell, Miami East; Charles Schlechty, Greenville; Sara R M Schmitmeyer. Versailles; Cindy K Shawn Blake Drinnon, Thomas-Fay-Custer; Upper Scioto Matthew Chad Wesley Dixon, Kennon D Dosher, Tipton; Scarbrough. Byng: Thomas-Fay-Custer; Casey Vinita; Schlueter, Botkins; Victoria Sue Valley; Davis, Spiro; David Paul Deskin. View; Jonathan Purdy, Fairbanks; Harker, Firelands; Brent Harpster, Hartman, Arlington; Brian W Custer, Cushing; Jonathan Paul Justin Reed, Tri-Valley; Matt Rhoades, Elgin; Andy Ricketts. W Wayne Carnegie; Justin Kuykendall. Conrad. Chief Logan; Matt Christine Cox, . Lewis. Madison Lifer, Lancaster; Jennifer Longenecker, Franklin Wellington; Kelly Lynn Conn. Eastern Brown; E T Jenkins, Stillwater: Kelli Lee Sword, Wellington; Melonie Terry. Wagner, Greenville; Krista John Carraher. Lynchburg-Clay; Custer: Josh Jarvis, Afton: Sherrita Swendal, Danville; John Anthony Brian Vaughn, Wynford; Angela Layman, Beth Hoover, Cement; Kyle House. Cameron; Todd Ice. Thomas-FayCuster; Jody Jackson, Thomas-Fay- Johnson, Wyandotte; Cray Mige Vocational; Geoffrey Gilead: Nicholas Keely Irene Higdon. Fletcher; Kara Kevin Surber, Hillsboro; Nathan Lee Willard; Heather Vaubel, Botkins; Mount Ann Hennigh. Laverne; Cory Hensley, Vinita; Kay Stuck. Versailles; Marysville: Jonathan Carpenter. Alexander; Ryan Buckeye Career Center; Andy Spiker, Tri-Valley; Gabe Sprague, Oak Harbor; Aaron Stockbcrger, Russell Henry Knight, Tanner Indianola; Christopher Hawthorn, Cushing: Emily Haynes. Northwestern-Wayne; Bradley Old Pettisville: II, Arapaho; Jordana Harrison. Keller, Margaretta; Stacey Keller. David James Bontrager. Sheridan North; Erin Marie Brooks. Greg Burkholdler. Hanza, Central; Michael Harris Schroeder, Leipsic; Donald William Grandfield; Jason S Gray, Shawnee; Travis Tacker. Thomason. Adam Tibbetts. Chickasha: Kristy R Troyer. Pryor; Stephanie Troyer. Adair: Brian Karen E Reed. Derry: Bronson L Unruh. J O Vaughan. Okeene: Charlie Elgin: Reedy. Cloister; Curtis L Reichard. Hollie Voth. Fairview; Cyal Walden. Blue Ridge: Jamie L Risser. Cedar Wister; Earl Hasting Ward. Durant: Crest; Keith R Justin oy Warren. Harrah; Cody Drummond; Jennifer W R Sauder, Grassland: Lynn Walborn, Cumberland R Weaver, Grassland; Nathan Vandersnick, Garretson; Cody Kristen Jamie Wallenstein, Comfort: Shara Davis, Livingston; Harrisburg; Christina Yost. Miller: Todd Dawley, Mexia; TENNESSEE: Dean, Rockdale; Karen Lynn Adams, Cribbs, Snyder; Troy Crow, Dyersburg: Josh Baker. Warren Calallen; Jamie County; Daniel Batson, East Waskom; Ashley Hennessey; Stephen Brandon Joy Weaver. Cloister; Joann Young. Robertson; Daniel Calvert, East Wright. Cushing: Jerrad Yates, Elk Solanco; Luke City: OREGON: Kim Union: Beth C Nicholas Ann Valley: Jessica Dale Becker. Beckett. Douglas; Blake. Molalla Union; David F Blythe. Molalla Union: Cory Jo Bunch, Crook Co: Matthew W Calef. Central; D J Matthew E Debrick, Cant. Imbler; A Zimmerman, Stephanie Edwards. Dayton; Seth Del Deo, Chariho; Dennis Jr. Amy C Scituate; J A Etchells Fountain, Nathan Hebert, Scituate; Steven Elkington. McLoughlin; Justin Otto, Scituate; Ferguson. Scio; Trevor Lee Chariho; Fins, Central; Cloister; Zimmerman, Cedar Crest; Joanne Zimmerman, Cloister; RHODE ISLAND: Kimberly Anne Jeffrey S Chariho: Erin Joy Fountain, Chariho; Crater; Ferguson. Molalla Union; Zerby. West Snyder; J Wayne Renee S Gilmore, Canby; Lynnsay Hagerty, Madras; C Devon Marie Wilcox, SOUTH CAROLINA: Robertson; Adam Lynn Dillard, Dittert, Schulenburg; John Ellebracht, East David Comer, Central; Clint Feagin, Farmersville; Riverside; Wesley Crowder. Jackson Raymond Central; Brent Dorris, East Ty Funderburk, Sulphur Springs; Jessica Greenway. Farmersville; Robertson; Eric Farrow, Johnson Curt Feagin. Farmersville; County; Jason Fletcher, Anderson Kristy County; Elizabeth Gardner Forsyth, Sarah Harris, Tilden County; Kevin Humboldt; Rachel Freudenthal, Portland; Tim Gann. Warren County; Hattermann, Weimar; Lance Heger, Weimar; Lisa Jon Hensley, Glen Gaugh, Jackson Central; Levi Livingston; Russell Herzik. Weimar; Lynn Haisler, Smithville: Gentry, Dyersburg; Jonas Wade Brandon Gillespie. Forrest; Steven Wesley Brian Daniel Hinkel. Donald Craig Brown, B J Skelton Career Center; Kimberly Grace East Robertson: Holland II, Green, Manning; Phillip Mauley Johnson County; James Holloran Jr. T Summer Cheyenne Dean, Jacksboro; Kristen Denman, Keith Weaver. Hans Herr; Kendra Bret J Beth South Greene; Julie Allen, White. Cushing: Jim Worthan. Westfahl. Kristi Hall, Johnson County; Lewis Head, Mark A Howard. McMinn Hill. Arlington Martin; Mayde Creek; Wesley Travis Holekamp, Comfort; Harold Wayne Hornback. Humble; Wade Hudspeth, Pilot Point: Rachael Hunter, Winona; Mandy Jackson. Sara Hale, Tillamook; Chandra Long, Crescent: Michael Hickam. Vale; Cindi Husbands, Jr, Union: Willie Thomas Huston. Pine Crescent; Vince Pace. Britton's Jeremy Blake Hughes, Warren Lueders-Avoca; Mark Nathan Neck: County; Justin Johnson, East Jousan, Joaquin; Kristy Judd. Robertson; Trey Lawrence, Forrest; Aubrey; Dawson Everett Kaiser, Brian Lewis, Eagleville; William Columbus; Will Kiker, Anson; Travis Eagle; Brett Jeter, Redmond; Aaron Johnson, Knappa: Alexa Johnson, Walhalla; John F Iris Martin Northeast: McGee. Peeler, Crescent; Richard Neck; Pitts, Britton's Jill County; Annie Hughes, Dyersburg; Huffman; John Carl Jensen, amencan Vale; Roxanne Elizabeth Johnson. Molalla Union; Jared J Kerr. Bonanza: Jerry Kimlinger. Molalla Union; Amber SOUTH DAKOTA: Casey Aldrich. De Smet; Tiffany Anderson. Lemmon: Arch E Beal Jr, Harrisburg; Jessica Beisch, Webster; Kirby, Union; Jeremiah Koop, Gervais; Abraham Willie Bender, Watson Kraxberger. Molalla Union; Bertsch, Miller; Heidi Joshua A Legg, Weston-McEwen; Michael Lorenzen. Dayton; Sara J Amanda Muhr, Mickelsen, Canby; Newberg; David L Neese. Henley: Howard; Paul Menno; Marty T M Lowe, Portland; Kevin Luton, Klaus, Pleasanton; Joshua Northeast; Josh Harold Maners, Comfort; Riverside; Michelle McCoig, Warren Lexington; Wendy Dawn Moles. Anderson County; Jon Michael Mahaffey. Pasadena; Daniel Mata, Moore. Halls; Amanda Catherine DeBulten. Harrisburg; Matthew Myracle, Riverside; Karen Hillary DeMent, McCook Central; Jesse Feller, Menno; Aaron Kent Frerichs, Wilmot: David Hackrott, Harrisburg; Newsom, Dyersburg; Grace E Wortham; Brent Matthys. Hubbard: John Jacob McEntee. Garland; Trent McKnight, Throckmorton; Jody Miller, Booker; Monte J Mokszycki, Lewisville; Andrea Michelle Moses Strand. Denton; Ryan Mott. Quanah; Andrew Shane Mutina. Pearland; Douglas James Noll, Falls City; Pete Burns. Harrisburg; Page, Brennan Hauk, McMinnville; Bethany Santos, Michael Herrmann, Chamberlain: Glide: Angela Kristine Sargent. Derek Hlavacek. Florence; Chris County; Julie Elizabeth Shew, North Clackamas; Jayne Michelle Howard, Miller; Steve Janish. De Maxson Richard Sherman. Canby; Tyson Ray Shirley. Smet: Amy Elizabeth Reilly, Carmine; Hollie Lynn Langley. Kayleen Chipman, Huron; Nathan Molalla Union; Leonard Rossner, Tillamook: W Klein, Round Top- Charles Dyer County; Ralph G Ramey. Midway; Bradley Richardson. Culleoka; Samantha Ridenour, Anderson County; Matt Ross, Dyer Stephanie Perrin, Canby; Matt Petty, Koehl. Winona; Nicholas Laskowski, Poth; R Lewis, Mabank; Kristi County; Darren Ross McDaniel, Bruner, Wade Philip; Raymond A Tanse Riverdale; Joseph De Rex Shrader, Papwelek, Pleasanton; Crystal Tamara Pickard, Jefferson County; Lila Therese Perriraz, Calallen; Smet; Daniel Kannegieter. Willow Singleton, Lexington; Ernest Charles Scurry Rosser; Terri Poppe, Weimar; Joseph; Jason Paul Stubbs. Creswell; Lake: Paul Kellogg. Gettysburg; Snapp, Volunteer; Barry Turns, East Kimberly Renee Reich, Cisco; Angie VanDyke, Forest Grove; Mike Kilian, Gettysburg; Randy Marc Kringen, Garretson; Clinton Robertson; Douglas Harold Weller, Vernon Rerich. Weimar; Wayne South Greene; Chad Wilson, Richards, Coldspring; Carilee Matthews, Webster; Rachel Mehlhaf. Portland; Lance Menno; Kathleen Mickel, Rapid County; Ronald Wyatt, Riverside; Shelden. LaGrande; Shawna Webb, Dayton: Erica Anne Wood, Lebanon; Ryan Zollman. Enterprise; Charles T Matthew PENNSYLVANIA: Aurentz, Cedar Crest; Phillip Donough. Manheim; Hans Herr: Ryan L Edward Philip Groff. C Eby, Manheim; Darrell E Heagy, Northern Lebanon; Lynette J Heffner, Joy Noel Hess, Conrad Weiser; New Lee Moeller, Brookings: Frank B Moser, Rapid City; Stacy Coleman. Brothersvalley; Travis City; Sheri Johnson. Oxford; Preston E Hoopes, Headwaters; Nathan H EH Jamison, United; Justine R Clint Young, K Wright, Anderson Dyer County; Stephanie Abbott, Cooper: Mathew Ponder; Greg Schilling, Slaton; Florence; Jason Nagel, Gettysburg; Ashby, Henderson; Luis Antonio Kara Nagel, Gettysburg; Nicholas S Ayala, Cotulla: Heather Nielson, Lennox-Sundstrom; Tyler McKinney; Brad Batson, Barbers Hill; Cotulla; Stacy Leanne Adamitz, Pleasanton; Emily Marjean Gene Jr, TEXAS: Mueller, Milbank; Luke Muller, Paulson, Florence; Kelly Robbins. Bandera; Mark Roznovsky. Calallen; Robert Sanchez Brown Schertz. Kelly Renae Schneider, Rogers; Robert Schubert, Lexington; Ann Aycock, Nicholas Travis Seaton, Meadow; Clifton Shearrer, Pleasanton; Wade Siebman, Bowie; Sabrina Beard, Big Sandy; James Jarred Ray Smith. Troy; Bee Jay Squires, Rasmussen. Rapid City; Shane Reis. Jimmy Chamberlain; Lura Kate Robison. Blaylock, Hull Daisetta; Jennifer Odem; Scott Stedje, Grower; Newell; Nathan B Sanderson, Lake Bourquin, Sandra Day O'Connor; C Teel, Bryan; Cody Timmons, Mike Schock, McCook Birkhead. Rockdale; Tonya Megan Kreider. Solanco; Nathan S Kreider. Preston: Ryan Paul Brandt, Weimar; Kasey Motley County; Lauri Vaughn. Solanco; Nicholas Central; Jim Schroeder, Tulare: Brightwell, Henderson; Jason Brod, Cooper; Kirby Watson, Katy; Jeff Adam Sealy; Linda Brown, Tilden; Timothy Wayne Buhler, Columbus; Chris Caninenberg, Liberty; Lucy Weber. Solanco; J Kreider. Andrew Daniel Martin, P Sletten, Canton; Michael Cedar Crest: Kenneth L Martin, Lee Strohschein, Newell; Jared Grassland; Jodi Corinne Moist, West Tolzin, Snyder: Constance Nolt, Cloister; Dyke, Wessington Springs; Timothy Michelle Canter, Tomball; Kelsey Nicole S Over. Northern Bedford; Vanderham, Alceslcr-Hudson; Christian, Huntsville; De Smet; Darrick John Van M Pilot Point; April Westbrook, Baytown Sterling; Kristie Williams, Katy; Marcus Williams, Salado; Will Winter, Idalou; Jonathan Caleb Wolfe. Northwest; Gerrit Young, Tomball: UTAH: Central; Clint Lyle, Buffalo Gap; Anderson, Jill Brian P Reiter, Dinwiddie; Mark Plymouth; Jennifer Lee Ben/, Green Ostrowski, Amherst; Beth Bay Plan/, Waupaca; Stephen Reiter, Dinwiddie; Roger Jason Bearnson, Spanish Fork; Jonathon Lee Riggleman Biadasz, Amherst; Scott Payson: Micah Bell. Wayne Capener, Bear River; Jeremy Cowley, Lee Ferguson. Payson: Jeffry Gittins, Sky View; Richfield: Tori Mark E Sutphin, James Wood; Kathryn E Threewitls, Spotswood; William Lewin Walther, Turner Ashby; Todd White, Jackson; Lynn Godfrey. Bear River: Chris T Goode. Wasatch: Kandi S Hansen, Fremont; Shane Hardy, Lone Peak; Broadway; Anne Haueter. Wasatch; Joseph Mark Humphrey, Emery Sr; Haley M Jenson, Richfield: Amber Shantel Keller, Wasatch; Larsen. Manila; Pat Leddy. South Lundell. Payson; Thomas Maples, T Johnson Creek; Cochrane-Fountain City; Jason Amanda Adam Michelle Rivamonte, Oconto Falls; City; Bork, Cochrane-Fountain Mary Othello; Mary Catherine Prairie: Jessica Paul Golob, Granger; Jane Bridget A Wenatchee; Nathaniel R Dahm, A Colby, Sauk W Johneen Leilam Schwab. Shawn James J F Drews, R Eckerman, Derin Black Hawk-South Wayne; L Ensch. Farrell. Fort Fremont; Nicole Linda Thalacker. Atkinson; Bryon Beaver Dam: Jason E Toufar. Spencer; Chad Cochrane-Fountain City; Turpin, Hillsboro; Joe Ubersox, Ann R Glodowski. Lynn Golding. Waupaca; Rio; Sarah Dorothy Weber. Wasatch; Tamra Sutherland. Mt North; Eric Gudex. Mayville; Brian Wiedenfeld. Lake Mills; Pamela Nebo: Kasee Lynn Sweat. Lehi; Melissa Swenson. Payson: Adrienne Petty, Asotin; Dawn Wenatchee; Rebecca Twitchell, Ward, Sky View: Joshua Pratt. A Lone Peak: Justin VERMONT: R Panton, Vergennes; Lee Vergennes; VIRGINIA: Hasler, H Eliza Rochester; Daneice J N WEST VIRGINIA: Alt, Tsianina Baldwin. Nelson County; Mary Handrich, Wilder. Osseo-Fairchild: Jeannie Mineral County; Yelm; Tomah: Jamie Zimmerman. Fall Creek; WYOMING: Mark J Avery, Lander: Heideman, M Helstad. Zangl. Mayville; Paul Black Paul Bauder, Douglas; Black Hawk-South Wayne; Trisha Cheyenne Cheyenne Pulaski; Julie L Johnson Creek; Scott Holland, Shalome Lanai Jaquish. East; Stacy East; Amy L Bradley. Child. Ross Cochran. Torrington: Danielle Cox. Burns; Corey Forman. Powell; Jasi Michele Raymond Jarek. Hadden. Powell: Alan Hamner. Bonduel; David Jennings. Rio; Abby Lyman; Brian Lewis, Snowy Range: Sauk Kamden D Manawa; Gina Pardeeville; Nathan Thomas Ann Zastoupil, River Falls; John Herbert Herbst. Hill, Thomson, Witt, Neillsville; Austin M Winkelman. Watertown; Elizabeth Monroe; Stacy Heck. Lynn Hieronimczak, Jon James Schlee, Asotin; Nathan Sehuyleman, Ferndale; Phoebe Walkling, Vergennes; Jennie Vander Wey, Grams. Randolph; Kathy Grindey, M Yelm; Michelle Ney, Yelm; Bruce Michael Wehling. Fall Creek; Weyauwega-Fremont; Rebecca Harter, Oconto Falls: Timothy F Nelson, Winlock; Melissa Ney, Adam Plymouth; Good. Marshfield; Shawn Jon Hall. Tomah; Ian Cross; Trevor Sulser, Van Egtern, Waupun; Melissa VanderLinden. Green Bay Southwest: Matthew D Vellema. Waupun; Jason Wakeman. Shullsburg; Ian J Groff. Oshkosh M Woods J Mike Weigel, Platteville High School; Danny Darrell Wessels. Riverdale; Ben Aaron James Staheli, A Auburn; Terry Shullsburg; Jenny Gerlach, Marshfield; Arlaina Lynn Gonske, Rice Lake; Morgan County; Joshua Dean New Trowbridge. Jessica Ryan Mensonides. Yelm; Murdock, Walla Walla; Crystal Tracy. Riverdale: Mary Beth Feucht, Mayville; Josh Amherst; Melissa S Goers, Gresham: Rochester; Mark M Traun. Durand; Holli Gamer, Cochrane-Fountain City; Gill, Shullsburg; Gail Smith, Payson; Rodney L Tangwall. Weyauwega- Shullsburg; Feller. Monticello; Kristen Melissa Quincy; Robert Matthews, Angela Smith, Cambridge; Tracy Smithback, Cambridge; Bart Sopa. Jonathan Gibbs. Waupun; Brock Calvin Smart, Lone Peak: Karlee Creek: Amherst; Josh Sykora, Bloomer; Fetting, amencan Fall Skorstad. Waterford: R Edler, A Hawk-South Wayne: Black Hawk-South Wayne; Cameron Michelle Rochester; Casey Rogers Kooistra, Schultz, Black Amy Elkhart Lake; Dorn, Edgerton; Michael Randolph; Shawn Pomeroy; Jason Heinz, Wenatchee; Adrian C Higginbotham. Almira- Bridget Schultz, Shullsburg; Jason Creamer, Waupaca; Dorshorst, Poynette; Darin Hahner, Hastings, Larry Schaitel. Sparta; Andrew Schraufnagel. Mayville; Tonasket; Matt Flood. Zillah; Joshua L Haag, Wayne Weyauwega- Brown, Juda; Barbara Rose Brusky, Pulaski; Sarah Flick, Woolley; Karen Hutchinson, Spencer, Mane Jill Melissa Schommer, Waupaca; Payson; Justen Chris Selman. Bear J Roidt. Montello; Paul Fremont; Kari Brown, Juda; Kathi Jo D W Silcox, Payson; Reinke. Bonduel: Waupaca: Christy Brewer, Borba, Othello; Brian S Carlson, Yelm; Jason Emerson, Almira- Shaun Shawn M Emily Jill Riley. M Hartline; Jaime Hinton, Sedro- River; Bork, Weyauwega- J M Schaffner, Cochrane-Fountain City; Higginbotham. Almira-Coulee- Rhodes, J Jr, Randolph; Jesse Thomas Bollinger, Bear River; Brett Sterling Robertson, Wasatch; E Bobholz Darlington; Karl Lake Mills; Oshkosh West; Travis Radloff, Omro; Matthew D Reindcrs. Cambridge; Tracie Brede, Bonduel; Coulee-Harthne; Ryan Rail. Boatman, Lynden; Paul Booker, Othello; Sonia Wasatch; Mark Alan C William Ryan. Waupaca: Liberty; Michael Bear River; Bcrnick, Spencer; Bill Fremont; Nicholas Bratlhe, Sky View; Michelle Okerlund, South Sevier; Mark Openshaw, Payson; Kelli Park, Wasatch; Kerri Lyn Park, Porritt, Neil R Appel, Colfax; Scott Bedlington, Gutzwiler. Wenatchee; Brad John Lewis, Lehi: Jed Sevier; WASHINGTON: Coulee-Hartline; Jennie Farwell, Hunting. Fremont; Jason Jarvie, Manila; Robert Stonewall Jr. Ann Ryan M Powers. Dustin George Raddatz, Preble; Seth Berg, Pulaski; Lone Peak: Michael Archibald, Bear River: Neil Bailey, Weber; Bjarn S Prairie; Robert M Johnson, Pulaski; Josh Johnson, Shawn Shullsburg; J Shawn Miller, Buffalo; Stephanie Moore, Wright; Amanda Mullins. Johnsrud, Sedman. Southeast; Pecatonica-Blanchardville; Rebecca Riverside; James Jordan. Johnson Creek; Kellie Jo Heith Begoon. Fort Defiance: Christopher Roane County; David Canterbury, Ripley; Cynthia Roxanne Clay, Keehn. Monticello; Tracy Kieffer. Traci Walton. E Greenbrier West; Jonathan Darlington; Kenneth Clair Kieler, Blake Whitlock. Pine Ridge; Patrick Tara L T Barton. Central: James Bielmyer. Dinwiddie County; Ryan S Blosser. Turner Ashby; Ralph Gamett Booher III, John S Battle; Bamett, Ripley; Paul Burdette Jr, Cummings, Roane County; Suzanne Renea Cummings, Roane County; Christopher Lynn Cunningham, Bryan Craig Breeden, Spotswood: Nathan Brewbaker, Barbour County; Jeff Curry. Ripley; E Davis Jr. Joseph Malcolm Emswiler, Christiansburg: John John Frank Erwin Atlee; County; Jeremy Bay Fletcher. Tyler; Broadway: Samantha Fauble, Sherando: Rodney A Foltz, Central; Chad Douglas Francis, Halifax County: Donna Lynnette Hall, Amelia County Senior; Kenneth Hammer Jr. Spotswood; Jason A M Hatton. Fort Defiance; Catherine Hess, Turner Ashby; Gregory Joseph Holsinger. Wilson Memorial; Mary Beth Hylton, Fort Defiance; Barner Jones. Park View Sr; Barry Allen Jones, Amelia County; Ashlie Kiracofe, Fort Defiance; Ryan Kiracofe, Buffalo Gap; Winston I Jami K Jr, Doddridge Godfrey, Ripley; Roger G Darlington; Kimberly Ann Kramer, Oshkosh West; Kirk John Kramp, Marshfield; James M Krueger II, Hillsboro; Alexandra Dee Larson, Osceola; Andrew P Leonard, Pecatonica-Blanchardville; Holly A R Lonning, Neillsville; Andrew R Maass. Hanshaw, Clay County; Michael Paul Knapp, Roane County; Nathan Loosen, Hartford; Dale L Knopp. Pulaski; Aaron McMillan, Poynette; Melanie J Ripley; Barbara Sue Seymour: Kristine Maroszek. Rocky M Mason, Jefferson; Candace Minear, Ravenswood; Marvin Dewayne Paxton Jr, Roane County; Jeanetta Rana Peggs, Gilmer County; Carrie East; Erin Beth Ruddle, Pendleton County; Ginette Nelson, Osceola; Joe Neuser, Linton, Hedgesville; A Melander, Spencer; James Melby, Waupaca; Beth Mielke, Marion: Daniel Platteville; T Ann Miesen, Tracy Miller, Green Bay E Mullen. Milton; Lanae Michael Shambhn, Roane County; Mishicot; Matthew Christopher Tomlin, Ripley; Prairie WISCONSIN: Ryan R Novacheck, Hillsboro; Mark Alvin, Randolph; Chad Wilbur Baldwin, Knight, Spotswood; Daniel Robert Hillsboro; Vicki Lauro, Fort Defiance; Troy Lawson, Bonduel; Marshall Barton. Buffalo Gap; Bradley Lutz, Stoughton; Curtis Baskin. Durand; Lynn Balthazor, J Norberg, Farm; Bryan Jeffery A Oft, Randolph; Ben Olson, Loyal; Joe L Waddell. Cheyenne East: Cheyenne Zimmerer. Southeast; East: Corey retiring begins with middle C it all As a little girl of about eight, I began FFA President Lisa E. Ahrens, National 72nd National FFA Convention Ninth General Session to take was so excited because I was going to learn to play my favorite song from Sunday school-Jesus Loves Me. I remember sitting at my teacher's piano. I was barely tall enough to see the keys and my feet dangled off the bench. Even though I was young, I so badly wanted to learn how to play piano like my big piano lessons. sister did. I I thought that I could just start off playing right away! But learning piano, learning how n't to sing or playing a musical instrument does- work that way. You know, sitting me more taught than just piano. Yes, bench at this I had to learn the basics of piano... notes, rhythms, chords, And, scales. songs we and Fur even learned some of those famous I hear on the piano today, like chopsticks Elise. While learning the notes and the songs. some important help but also learn What found I Once we to find the center of what find is us-our middle C-the payoff most important is So, as began I rest had I my to learn? had I to learn the first thing located on the keyboard. notes on the page do not you have a play. It's Middle C where my start me to stop my thumb from the I If you country, none of that me tell If I did in all important things second and find middle C. FFA members have you C We is? where the center is our in life? If your life takes a about middle C. it We seems we have like basics on which everything else spend so much time wrapped up lives forgotten have forgotten some of the and crazy schedules. We is built. in We our hectic spend our days rushing to get to school on time, rushing to get the last minute homework done before class starts, life. middle C. So what yours? Where is is Who your middle C? are the people that are most important you-that allow you to be you? it is your mom, dad, guardian, They are a part What that can sing or play piano. Recognizing what you are good turn, at is a part of find- where do you go searching for the answers to take you back to where you ing your middle C. belong? Have you ever been working on something and suddenly had the To truly find your own middle C, you must invest the time to discover what Once you to you. life feeling, "Oh... is It them. These are the core values that faith, family, friends, farm are my things that takes me know that me I my center. and our family Those are the four can go back to when in the my wrong direction. faith will life I always provide with a strong foundation on which know that my friends will love me unconditionally no to build. I matter what happens in family and my life. love this!" That I is a part of your middle C! find around you care the most about. For me, And is makes you the happiest? Is it the sport that you excel at-basketball, tennis, volleyball or track? Maybe you it you use as wrong my of your center, your middle C. What lives. my in teacher or your friend. ever need to know all those things, plan your In today's society call Maybe most important begin with middle C. I These are to like rap, alternative, ska, or would be possible without Those home. These are the most that building blocks for the rest of your to the basic building blocks in music. building blocks make us happy. We we need money, new cars, and cell phones or pagers to make us a part of the cool group. Instead, we should remember what my piano teacher made me do when she told me to stop, take a are your core values that music would you think about music not sound right. general, whether to busy schedule, nothing beats going back to the family farm think middle unless remember on middle C. center, then the after a very time. stopped to think about where your The and to look hands were. Then she would again with start it. from which that center point. is work on to get to are in constant search of material things that will So, just a note make any sense central reference point piano teacher telling We where "middle but everything in music revolves around not we of the world. piano lessons as an eight-year- what do you suppose was girl, C" was my to begins with middle C. It all that and rushing our wonderful and can go share our talents with the old life. you begin each song by finding middle C, we each have lives. couldn't that life is a lot like playing the is piano. Just like I lessons on may seem weird to think about those things that center you. But FFA members, when you reach the point where you know your core values, you are by what is not what others your truly living most important may find your center, you life you and When you to think. will find happiness and contentment. begins with middle C. It all So why back invest the time to find middle C? Why do piano remind us teachers constantly How many middle C? to find is and wondered "why?" or "What The the purpose of this class?" C purpose of finding your middle who you understand what you stand how can find really are and be happy and content to no matter what going on around you. is face plant! is Each time of you look in the mirror and see everything that and go back to to you? I weigh too much. little, I am blonde hair, I not me. I We ability. wish wish I had more I us. We judge not we have the "in" clothes, or whether or not we hang out with the We measure So ourselves against these things. what? At times my comparing I find myself my abilities to classmates or teammates, that I won"t be as talented because their talent is a gift. will never be able to I play sports like Jose, like James, and I can't play guitar I is I at my C I special, not And when you that's find happiness that allows you to be you. you've found your center, can still lose sight of what's important? Of course you center. It is The music Even can! I always there how of you that know that I my lose it I have met it takes balance to stay up on the is learning it this love to water-ski. slalom water-skiing, the challenge your middle C is to understand who you really are and what you stand for. In doing that, you can find how to be happy and content no matter what is going on around you. became, the I to cut from side though. I I had started, the ski. how faster to side. back skiing, to the I I time that knew I for sure-middle C. was a success! It was the first take my talents and turn them out- got to I ward for others to enjoy. road reminded my favorite memories on the me of all the piano recitals I used the Mississippi State FFA At home for Someone asked me piano and almost everyone had headed home for the evening, except for a few. asked me My piano and that was to play Someone took over from there. The evening was singing, playing piano and laughter. realize how fast the It didn't take night. Everyone and a bounce we with didn't it was started. much, but a few people gave the who were 5-20 others filled We time had gone until 1:30 p.m., an hour-and-a-half after 1 took. all it two piano playing buddies, Joseph and Ryan, there a small gift that with a smile on their face left in their step. and Ryan weren't afraid All because Joseph to share their talents with others. Every day each of us can be led away earth. from center by is all kinds of things. It may be people who ask us to be someone that we are not, or the need right. year In Part of to cut I could begin all to hit knew And if we passed some rough water that if I didn't get calm, smooth water in the There our interact with others harmonies your talents That is is is where you can this let else reach his or her it! world. When you is beyond C? help better, share your melody. and belief in It is melody the heart and soul of any is abilities. Just as the Are you make we the smiling little a difference in at a better. doesn't have to be drastic! stranger on the street or telling your masterpiece. own that is different one from anyone that is special in notes form the melody that will My rite of the scariest things remember, is play piano at can the first time that my first recital. hands were frozen cold, shaking, and I I my rest I had to My knees were was so nervous I all those little become your its friends, take time to find Create your One and create and notes that start the melodies like melody It is better, You must parents you love them. Before long, else's. as well. around you, to help make your community It thought is someone you can use your when you find middle C you have created your own melody-a musical piece, letting can experience own accomplishment make our world true happiness, confidence in yourself, your around you to life. find your center, so your family you find truly greatest joy abilities to help others belief. find your middle C, The your not only our achievements, but helping You must should you find your middle in over into other people's lives? spill Only you know what pulls you away from your middle C. Don't Each time where many special talents. Simply not why we were put on this so much more than that to do. It us each how you create the activities. Because the payoff smooth, safe water behind the center of the boat. when deep first recital God gave Why some to cross that place another boat, or me, focus on one occupying space of back and forth across the wake. The better survived that breath, and instead of seeing 88 keys in front of to play The purpose of finding it in front should go, but takes continued practice to get Many I at the piano, take a the evening, except for a few. just like practicing piano. is you, written down sit pleted and almost everyone had headed be popular and the demands of you to to Convention, the talent show had just been com- me. Once you find the self-confidence, the worth and the When The only way play. was going can't harmonize like your middle C, you get past comparing. was to play in. my had missed Emily. But that's part of what makes them me It actually had an audience to I This year, one of those times was upset or I watch recital the entire song!! time really important middle look back when first 1 know I comes athletic ourselves on whether or cool crowd at school. what to find When life in life middle C. around to others have be the My had I are constantly in a state of comparing ourselves my wave a troubled, every time weigh too I enough, tall in wrong with is I have to take a step back I would forget I worried each time that I towards me, again. How many If in the monstrous result in a true in other things besides skiing. you In doing that, for. to is would it would fall, or run into the monstrous waves from another boat, it would start to affect my performance, and the same of you have ever sat in a high school class smooth water to the calm, center, own melody, and of the world. your middle C. share it with the when I had a great time ball, baseball, to in fit I I played basket- I also loved wanted to be in everything! I with the other students and be It "When the end of the basketball season?" last volleyball is You might be on a in different may will this activity end?" working, or in college, baseball team, in the first time that came I to this organization is for who want people themselves to give of and help others. I be a an Olympian, scientist, to be a may be very game of the season to that question band concert. In the big picture are questions that are hard to answer. of or the there life They are because they involve people and our ability to give and forgive in these Hug your teammates.... Start now because tomorrow may be too late! Commit today to of giving. life my is the end of giving? What does giving even mean? Does it mean giving everything away? No way, Jose! You may say, "Why should I give if no Each time it is it that you gave the airport, invited homes you, not about building about building people. is me me or wrote a FFA members, me a ride to to stay in letter, I in the world. You don't need Olympian, to be a scientist, an a national officer or to a friend who Hug your teammates. Write to your best friend to tell them how much you care. Put your arm around Give encouragement your it. mom and dad and say, "I love you." Start now, because tomorrow my may be Commit was going to be fine. The ambulance carried me to the hospital and my mom met me there. I was life super scared, not because of the pain is my leg, my mom. very tough to give to someone instead of who need concept, but how are great human extending their hand to those people someone. Giving! What a simple much we beings! struggle with They love you inspire you, they care expecting anything it! for Givers who you are. They but I learned how to ride my if I could go outside to ride she told me "no" what? went I right outside would be I I my I bicycle, but support to is that learned what giving was able to give her love me when do. you will find that giving has hurt you. To truly live a giving you must also live a So when is the is. and she could have been angry. OOPS You know we ! takes. It is when My friends, is I the end of giving? Never! believe that living a life someone is that of giving never ends! You will give others hope that will live on forever as As they share that hope throughout the and struggles forced world. you When was told the last time that your friend, dad, mom. you can When the end of forgiving others? my unsteady balance and a lack of experience. that forgiveness. Bad With even more people around guarantee you that one of the give to is make mis- It's difficult to forgive those and climbed on idea! of of for- end of forgiv- all and forgive ourselves. us! I life life is who really hard to accept that most important things So, it I still love you no matter what." I today to a easy with your friends. But ing? My mom My mom in big When you giving. pretty cool age because she was busy! Guess bike without her approval. I had disobeyed too late! of giving. doesn't matter to me, the That moment bike. leg, I it the true would hold my bicycle steady for me because was not too coordinated! One day I asked my mom thought I I had I only thing that matters was ten years old I learned meaning of giving. Now, ten was a broke I my head down and "Mom, am so sorry". My mom trouble. said, "Jose in return! I because but because in have you. When remember. is all I I said, and they give without even a chapter officer to be a giver. Start now. That first that are the best givers focused on what I your saw one ever has given others putting materialistic things and You have future. its that dreams, needs When me anything?" We are so we receive and how we look or how cool we are, when what really matters is giving from the heart. am frustrated when I see me taught Give encouragement to a friend who needs it. a relationships. have I community service, helping other members succeed and helping the caring about now. giver. Start count myself blessed because seen you give of yourselves in agricultural industry by learning even a chapter officer to "When find yourself asking last baseball difficult convention that organizations or involved in your church. You more the very a national officer or money high school, and in a in couple years you will be final coming the other. You don't need clothing and life like sports, The answer see that there were five cars FFA advisor that you love them because they give to you? FFA members, you have shown me from teacher or from one direction and one car from is have seen that materialistic I have endings! You are simple-the looked up to I or "When is the end of my Maybe you have asked Throughout the years band, right out into the street just time to lose control. the yourself these same questions. both. wobbled I game?" high school years?" aspects of Jose Santiago, Southern Region Vice President 72nd National FFA Convention Sixth Convention Session in was exhausting! Soon after involved, I would ask myself, "When seen as cool. getting high school! in swam and I gymnastics! In fact wanted the end? is a child I experienced challenges me giveness the hard way. an alcoholic. In to learn for- My father was December of 1979. I address retiring was eight months old. One night my Dad came home intoxicated and my mom. He started to abuse her left when you made broke given the arm and threw her down the that was not all. I was in crib me and he took me from and threw walked out of our a arms in his My If I The doctors told my mom that I would never be able to walk, run or even play. I had to go my age to through a of therapy. During one of lot sessions a miracle occurred! After seven years moved I legs for the very first time. me truly blessed God From that point on, more intensive rehabilitation. For the time normal am hoped I I still that could live a I this entire know why. "Why didn't Why do I Why do wheelchair? in this I continued with But through life. need special education class? others have a dad while In I don't?" December of 99 my world fell when my mom gave me the 1 1 apart answers to the questions-the story just shared with you. I my day mother my We because he dad, I then I make life. my mother if my could father for abusing her, could also be strong enough to forgive him. I being. all I my realized that avoid hating but human a was still angry with blamed God and I was unhappy with I is must forgive because we mistakes." But my One dad. me down and said, mad towards your sat "Jose, don't be father, I remembered feeling very angry with let It was very difficult to do, go of the anger. I decided that even though he hurt everyone my in family and chose not to be a part of our lives, I could still confess to you that in life is to I can do tell this him, "I because a conscious choice to give the gift of forgiveness. I biggest dream meet him and love you, Dad!" made love him. my him If en! When forgive, is the you fail, is for two end of forgiving? Never! we I difficult questions' end of giving? Never! the When we When are appreciating people around us. who compassion. We the It's so are starving in who need other countries, dying from disease or little is give and for- a are fortunate to live in a my friends, country where families are valued and peace and you can be forgiv- freedom reign. end of forgiving? FFA members, you When we live a life of giving potential giving and forgiving, our actions will live on making those who come after us happier and more successful. The hope forever, to the hard part for us You have is living a life of giving and forgiving day by day. with this miracle! I talks negatively forgive yourself. Because Never! back. my swimming your neighbor when you was dam- friends, When give, about you forgive them. grew I not able to walk because of the time. hope I One simple answer easy to forget about people window and lives forever. learning disabilities. first of forgiveness? you were. up with physical impairments and my gift Were you a mistake. But stairs. my Close your eyes and think about a time to the are exceptional. and forgiving in homeless, love to the weak. FFA members Because when is see I you lost enough to bring and strength give and forgive! the end of giving and forgiving? the answer! May God bless all of you! "We stand who came tall only because before us." we stand on the backs of those FFA members were enraptured as Danny Glover recounted his boyhood on his grandparents' farm. Glover was sponsored by The Humana Foundation as special project of the National FFA a Foundation. As a Vietnam veteran who was severely disfigured exploded when a grenade hand, Dave Roever in his relayed a message of survival and overcoming His adversity. powerful oration brought members and left FFA to tears, then laughter, them filled with hope. Roever was sponsored by United Parcel Service (UPS) as a special project of the National Foundation. FFA Humorist and motivational speaker Emory Austin offered a message of hope and inspiration to FFA members. "The world needs your ounce of difference," she told the crowd gathered in Freedom Hall Worldwide adventurer and author Jaime Clark mesmerized and entertained FFA members with his human He shared his inspiring story of triumph. message of overcoming obstacles and coping with rapid change. retiring James Garner, Western Region Vice President 72nd National FFA Convention Eighth Convention Session _ people need People Where were you when I needed you ? needed to talk, I needed a friend. You make me laugh and you make me smile. But it's hard when you're gone awhile. And so I found that people need people. I perspective. food and shelter are needs to sustain quality to your life at the top of your times over the last twelve months, human pick up a guitar just to play and soothe Many number my soul. "What one year?" To be you learn most from this honest, it was always hard to give just one answer, but that answer finally came to me one day as I thing did was playing the guitar. So I why thought, ones-are friends, family, vital to my I You enjoy spending time with you. same way. imperative that you It is need for friendship, positive friends, you fill your life and dedicate have always been a huge drag racing and when I'm down I'm on the run. But then you come and pick me up. You give me comfort and love. And I found that people need people. I We loved to go to the races. your world! This year with healthy and and time in had the chance to I was pumped. gotta do. Think about my way. sometimes on it was It to find true it's not by being the best, cause I was no doubt found that people need people. I want. I want, I want. said it life. hours by myself with no one to want want tional to be I to to want to be rich. be a pro wrestler. be Shania Twain. man is I I to want want to to be be an interna- is we go through life that's with I want only me. many wants, but the only thing that really matters is our needs. FFA members, is that the fact of the matter those needs is friendship. Now social interaction. ..in other one of words you're probably thinking, happen in needed I'll is too many Our need times. for friendship must be filled with healthy relationships, with people What quality to our lives. it's who add a healthy is one that knew. I times if is it be happy school basketball matters no one if the I same old get elected to make the high team. None of that if I is there to share it with you. For instance, you go to a basketball court and hundred shots make two in a row, but Ladies and gentlemen, each of us must find people in our lives. to I I'm up and fill FFA members, want I to my get together with roommates, Nate and Ryan. must understand that are big on exercise. to have a little was a me have some college Now you Nate and Ryan As for me, I like cover for the winter, you know what it was there to see you. It would be great if someone could enjoy the moment with you. If no one is there to share that moment, it could be pretty lonely. fun, convinced no one else need let relationships? I'm afraid the answer relationship? Well to be with we our lives with comfort and love. I but fit. times do provides encouragement, fun, friends. chapter office or I How many my line? I Mike. like of mystery like Austin Powers. Johnny Cash-okay, maybe The point be famous. were a hundred not the best possible thousand people there, but none were How many many probably too want I grandstands for sat in the It's When How many times do we How many times have we before? The answer times. the loneliest time of six I I in the world. but not in a is fulfilled, suffices. that my someone hear that in our lives? race the race track left I talk to. Yes, there not from success, it's great, but as had the emptiest feeling happiness. Well and people cheer- The It The good ing at three hundred miles an hour, it all. needs to be fixed. just use same old line. I want this and I want that. If I just had more time. If I just had more money. If I just had it all. But what you and I really need ing and yelling for starts to duct tape to fix the problem. SONG: fire, it way. this it your house in you can't afford one, so you need the fit needs to be fixed by a plumber, but three straight days and see cars speed- 's But any old person won't the shoe-there are certain things they go out and thought that I was going to be the greatest thing life. I would go to the races for this to nurture a positive relationship. It have a need-a need for a all The plumbing I the shoe. dad had raced and worked on crews and go and there. won 'tfit ol' person drag races-the biggest one in the I cuts it And I'm just looking for a friend. When I'm up I want some fun a feeling of emptiness and My and life must have someone feel the fulfill effort I my in knife. There's certain things they gotta do. them and they are a real part of you and when you're not around them is a void a friend. FFA members, to find out that lives that are special to 's like The one race that I always wanted to attend was the U.S. Nationals in Indianapolis. It was the mother of all and loved happiness. wouldn't be surprised There me Any song every time someone asks the question, "What did you learn most this year?" But I do know that what I learned most was that the people a SONG: sure that each of you have fan. me-my social your in dejection. around is people there not of list. Now, I'm my dreams is to become a songwriter, so here was my chance. Now, unfortunately, I can't whip out my guitar and sing One write a song? behind those five interaction-the need for a friend. times people asked the question, Put people needs, those are the top four. Obviously you will die without those, would I on the hierarchy of basic In fact, life. but Many who add "James, that's not a need!" Air, water, to play racquetball lot fun. if mean. But they I don't I and know what it maybe the fact that the ball seemed to hit me square between the eyes more often then square on the was, racquet, but more time it was rolling fun. We spent around on the that ground laughing than playing I'm racquetball. asking you to think about your wants down, and needs, and really put them into pick that But it my two me up and is also when I'm friends provide comfort. If I came from school and had were there to one. bad day, they a encourage and console the me. I'm sure you've heard the phrase, choose your friends wisely. more couldn't be It FFA members who true. surround yourself with people bring you up, not drag you down. At you might school, you can't feel like be with the "in-crowd" so you'll just be with negative people. settle to could I you John Adams was tell first to live in White House. the Andrew Jackson had a pet parrot that would swear. William Henry Harrison only served one month. James Buchanan was the only bachelor. James Garfield could write in Greek with his right left hand hand and Latin with same at the time. The far too important have the attitude of to just "I'll settle FFA members, seek out who give you comfort and for this." people the can sing just like you!" ' relationship didn't have the greatest with me by. to the end. relationship. memorize No, you don't have the presidents, but determined. Since 1993, still Johnny Cash invited true to build a healthy to my home straight. have concluded that our relationship I grow because we have not spent any about another person and to time together. The energy and effort was there, was but no time on strengthening your your time. is invested. Folks, We we get so wrapped up in we have chores to do-it's tough! But when it's all said and done, are we going to remember the B+ we received on the math test? Are we going to remember that no nail polish think so. I sincerely hope who were we them, There are a handful of people They really need their fulfill who important to you. Three things can We to to row. could get weaker, your relationship by tomorit could stay same or it could grow stronger. I would like to think that we would all want our relationships with others to grow stronger. How do you grow a the you to the end? need positive relationships. all today, I ask that home, I want you life who is It's through. Folks, second grade, determined to learn Of we can be serious about we course normal thing for a are blue in the face, but if don't take the time happen. Strong friendships are Don't your built let life. when people do can be playing cards, Nintendo, golf, mal" about me. So, every waking moment, I was reading a book about bowling or a great afternoon. the best. presidents, watching a biography, or a people... Halloween in third grade or paid off. I I I had was dedicated and for it could ramble off every talk many years now. My establish a friendship his shows. I to him. do first try was after I that to one of ran around the back of the auditorium Ronald Reagan, parked. Just as he was stepping on to and I could tell was you a the eighties) fact about each your the bus, I where his stopped him. start Make the planning activities you can do commitment to share yourself it be the same old line. Listen, laugh, smile Fill the void in and give your time Happiness comes not from success or from being on a Sunday president from George Washington to (it in a personal to others. It As some of you know, I'm huge Johnny Cash fan. I would love have been very determined Lincoln the following year. problems. But, things together. to build a great friendship with Abe Make we never will it seven-year-old to do. But then there for one person and your time with people you care about. has never really been anything "nor- dressing up like Franklin Roosevelt to think of a parent, teacher or a friend you've had since together. building a healthy relationship until of the presi- all dents of the United States. that is not exactly a was I want them commitment to strengthen your relationship. Secondly, make a list of all the ways you can spend time with that person. Whether the person second grade, in We lives. important to you. is was who When you leave here you do two things. On your way add quality to our commit and it true friends. our lives sustain those friendships. not an easy thing to do. You must see in someone happen friend who's with there for and who were our need of friendship. Take the time to grow and think of listened don't I remember us when we needed will all the people time. life. practice and most precious thing of all. Cause when people need people. FFA members, day to day have homework to do, soccer practice, football goes with national blue and corn gold? to the I each year on will never give. When I have enough, he has not shown up for six years to you do through to grow that friend. It I be dedicated and determined to to another person But the one thing we never seem It's But start. February 26th to celebrate his birthday. Sadly is The attitude of "I'll get by" or "This is good enough." does not work with people-it certainly doesn't grow any type of relationship. The most precious thing you can give not an easy thing to do. it replied half jokingly, list You must commit and see He "I'm sure you can son." Needless to say our friendship. lives we 're so wrapped up just tryin to get How do I grow a friend? It's nervous-actually very nervous. The same totally focus One who 's little was so nervous that my voice went up eight octaves and I screeched, "I'm your biggest fan." In his deep voice he replied, " Glad to know you." The next words out of my mouth were quite possibly the dumbest I have ever said: "I I was to care SONG: And in our just a went on and on. have love. was his Your well-being, your happiness and your inner-peace are I In fact, bus was need ... people. It comes from being a friend, because ... how do you measure up? According See, er. grandma*s refrigerator to grew up with I Between six cousins I and a am short. little the oldest and youngest there are only another, so we were same Sunday school in the But the most important thing broth- six years. All of us live within three miles of one you use classes. grandma and it became know when don't I tradition to grab the of the hall closet, stand the refrigerator, and the little measuring stick out measure our height by using We magnets as markers. heights on a this all started but with our backs against tall kept track of our index card that the refrigerator for we displayed on to see. all wrote the numbers when I was probably my name thirteen or fourteen. I after birthday. measure yourself by the that? and recorded bigger ones. The Soon grew the boys did, too. My girls shot past little me. brother even to be taller than the refrigerator. So I am officially the shortest cousin. ball game, the chapter, the your great amount of money in your That's a healthy, natural need. But, goes on and on. Deep The down think that most of us realize list measuring ourselves according I still is find myself doing you do how we ourselves against affect ourselves and how we a typical are surrounded by The box that one serving all you are trying to be your creative best, then you have no one to compete with or compare yourself to only your own When someone else believes in us, who individual we An says they believe in you really is potential to be your others, in says that a size printed on the tag of our shirt and jeans and even in our shoes. As we're speedometer the sign we to driving, we glance So by measuring things, so measure ourselves as it We you all heard more gives us This could cross the line to unhealthy though, if someone measured herself against models magazines and was willing in to starve herself to look that way. The dangerous thing about measuring ourselves the wrong way is that we feel inadequate. And when we feel inadequate, then we act that way. can never be our best, if we We don't think we How do you measure up against your are capable of being our best. it's different for we each person. That's because each different. The worst thing do is are we can measure ourselves by comparing ourselves to others. be to I have a I watched the older students and looked howing them the best way to measure themselves. up to them so much. Finally I was able when I was in the to try out for a part sixth grade. The play was called Baa-Baa Bethlehem and all the main characters were sheep. This was Maybe we wanted more than anything part in our school Christmas plays. will to are constantly only makes sense that well. we've fit All through elementary school, at the measure our speed compared see up ahead. being physically creative best? Well, morning before school, we is it a talk with a friend or time in the sick. When creative best. kinds of measurements. 3/4 cup. There how to think about treat others. our favorite cereal comes is someone energy and prevents us from becoming sharing your belief in Even during was that saying they believe in your and people we measure us, the things if attention he received, whether principal's office. Or, at too. believe in ourselves. For many of could be unhealthy much to it this are given attention. measured himself according pretty superficial. hand-me-downs from a favorite brother or sister, or you were finally taller than that red stick and you could ride the "real" roller coasters. But as we've grown older, the ways that we measure little. of us feel all in wallet? I when we they are not in you hold office potential. ourselves have changed a when unhealthy balance. For instance, we grew up. Many times a certain height meant we were allowed to do something. Like when you were big enough to wear our height as Sometimes even things we become your report card, points you score in a What determine let consider healthy can boyfriend or girlfriend, the grades on memories of measuring All of us probably have size I Christmas, each of the others erased their numbers feel better kinds of things do you didn't Christmas after have times when we all when times, and I'm sure would never change again. realize then that they watched as birthday by We about ourselves than other times. it We that. lives. measure yourself physical aspects "five, five" our in So how do you measure up comes to measuring yourself? But, I need balance of your clothes, whether you have a grandpa's house for either a birthday or Christmas. to and we measure ourselves by self-worth. Do you at how is you measure yourself. The method determines your opinion of your rode the school bus together and Nine times a year we were Emily Buxton, Eastern Region Vice President 72nd National FFA Convention Fifth Convention Session that's connected way we because we feel so we do or the have to make to the things look. We just sure that those things don't become me because I my 4-H projects and had them all my life. wanted to be especially exciting for had sheep for loved I a sheep in the play so badly. our identity. Sure, they can be an important part of us, but they aren't When the parts Sometimes we may put too much emphasis on a certain part of our lives a disappointed. us. little which is what I were announced I was was a sheep, wanted, but I was I address retiring Blanche. Blanche's character was And just what she sounds like-blah. We all is My sheep. Adrian and Angie. was model a spunky singer, and so she own And when others. was them we're not comparing begin to see Of course this isn't the norm We tend to give everyone a We even have groups in school school. glasses and a necktie. All the sheep label. wore something who measures up a certain way can be with others who are similar. You all know the cliques am talking about. But I truly believe personalities. was And me? All wore I reflected each of our personalities, me and then what did this say about my that if character? But soon Blanche and we discovered that I both hadn't been measuring ourselves very well. During the play all of the sheep went to visit baby Jesus and share their gifts with him. Blanche didn't think she had any gifts to share because she had been comparing herself others. But she discovered the best and to other people, that And I gift had of discovered couldn't keep comparing myself I never allow be. that she most important all-the gift of love. that each of the to me because that would to be all I am meant extremely different. But that doesn't to have five earrings one ear or a hidden tattoo. We are start in way you measure others. How do you measure up when it comes to change how we measure ourselves you stop judging others by their mistakes, and instead measure them by the potential you see in them, then not only will you look at them differently, but they will begin to see themselves differently. If someone accepts them not because of their them become There are physical appearance, but simply grades on your report card, more than the points because of their heart, then the way you score in a ball game, more than the office that you hold, more than the money in your wallet. You are a unique individual with the potential to do as much as you believe. The only thing holding you back is deciding-how do you measure up? measuring others? they measure themselves threat may change you won't view others as a anymore. Instead of being jealous of someone's talents or wealth, you can support them them be to help When you are trying to be your you have no one "Make a careful exploration of who you are and the work you have to-only your been given, and then sink yourself into believe in ourselves. someone who compare yourself with Each of you must take own An to When potential. else believes in us, we individual says they believe in you is really yourself. Don't saying they believe in your potential to others. be your creative responsibility for doing the creative best you can with your own life." your belief best. in others, So by sharing you will be showing them the best way to measure themselves. Many of us never do find out what our true potential is-our creative best-because we failed once, or quit trying Listen to your next conversation with when we because we're simply a friend. If that friend says something about feeling bad because of his what others will say. We can't measure ourselves by our past, grades or her appearance, remind your only by our futures-by our potential to unique. afraid of be our creative best. The only thing you should be measuring yourself friend that's not what makes them our measure ourselves determines so much lives. It definitely takes effort creative best and If compete with or compare yourself Don't be impressed with like. How we chapter that. they can be, then just imagine what our schools could be then ultimately you will change the creative best, then writes. we know with yourself and you different. In the six, when we accept and respect when we measure others not by the eventually, person others judge them to be. but by the person I in book of Galatians, verses four and five Paul our responsibility! everyone, their creative best. all is change the way you measure yourself, too. Also, to You are unique. Too often we say word unique when someone is mean you have you it And so that everyone plain old white. If these really check with how you not our responsibility to care about them. But high in he was the intellectual sheep with big to reflect their stay in And can go farther than your good friends. Do you even say hi or smile at your classmates when you walk down the halls of your school? We know there are students at our school who are unhappy, yet we usually ignore them. We tell it's Steve was very smart so guitar. you ourselves that they're not one of our friends, so differently. the rock star sheep with sunglasses and a will also help it creative best, we It are viewing yourviewing yourself. are measuring ourselves only against our ourselves to others, sheep with a pink feather boa. Erica was that it is. then we're not comparing ourselves to pretty the beautiful your own potential—and is whatever you believe When we wore white sweatshirts and sweat pants, except the grumpy black friend Stacey against way of how we measure be our others to help their creative best. It's a different thinking, acting and living. still those in this world who may measure you by your height, weight, salary. But, there's see on our part to when they look more at to you. I.Q., or you than what they It is more than the to retiring Andy Armbruster, Central Region Vice President 72nd National FFA Convention mediocre madness "Local football Fourth Convention Session because of star quits coach" conflict with "Workers demand fewer hours and higher wages" "Polls say character and integrity are not nearly as important as what he does for our "It wasn't my job, Read Extra!! Extra!! wave that is it's my not it. It's sweeping the nation. schools and in our families. and large fault" about all economy" the newest It's in It's in our small towns Haven't you heard? This cities. madness has swept into our lives. being It is delivered through our televisions and movies. It is evident in the headlines of the newspapers that are being dropped off come is our front door steps. Oh, at You know what on! a craze that you and and in the used to it. am I talking about. It see everyday in our lives I people around The madness We us. is have become so If you want pride, who might be wondering what I mean by mediocrity, let me explain. It means I'll For those of you settle for being a five, even though I have the you want if you want you might want to hear about a way. there's no scientific proof to It means taking the easy young man who quits when it hurts. It's the people who don't count our change back at the cash register or who don't say "please" and the "thank you." lazy people It's time whining. It's who spend all their families that don't talk. It's people without hope. Mediocre means average. We settle for average. We settle for average grades, average friends, average teachers and preachers. We settle for average leaders. Our biggest challenge in an average world people. In fact, too als, settle for many I and doubt there I your textbooks me. My seen soar. In the number of people who lane. Shift into that fast lane. can't, you won't. If you think you you think you can, there's a good chance you will. Even making the will make you feel like a new person. can't be Aim made by searching effort for things that done and doing them. Aim low: boring. high: soaring." it vision - have witnessed will have to be we should many in of our who much by what you your mind. Vision. It's see in moves a person or group forward. Vision sees beyond now and beyond average. junior high basketball coach said, "Every time you go to bed making throws." Visualize success. want to be the best My at night, all your free If is know such an excit- a word that visualize yourself soar have vision. Once you have tion through your eyes but what you see It's visualized yourself you you creed speaker, then that For more than had visualized at the I knew what feel like. I officer team. bumps would had visions of myself run- my new teammates. When my name was not called on that Saturday afternoon, I had about ten minutes me that fall. how you FFA mem- ning up on stage congratulating all people there would say and FFA the goose see game. Think about what the six years being 70th National ber of the national the best of your abilities. yourself winning the championship my name Convention as a newly elected of that session Picture may not FFA ran for national I announced that of in any situa- total control our attitude. You office twice. I The one thing attitude. visualize yourself giving the creed to football our fill minds with visions of excellence. People begins with you and your ing word. we soaring, the next step begins with mediocre madness not so the comes from some this year. fight The more our mediocre. Instead, the chance we have To never achieve their potential. Get out of that slow Reputations are life, average is Charles Swindoll writes. "The greatest waste of If in have I their time did what to them they will just barely get by in and your lives, is I it how who minds become cluttered with school to support fact, Grab it. garbage of today's society, the greater any information is at Average people waste their next challenge. to share with you, information comes from of the things or back up from daily events and people you do few times we, as individu- being mediocre. our natural resources am going what ple. thinking about have learned. Now, potential to be a ten. I Touch it. thing and being around the right peo- to be maybe, a ten instead of a five, then, Taste feel. Visualize yourself doing the right it. above the to live level of mediocrity, if things that It's would to soar like a bald eagle that flies majestically in the sky with mediocrity. when the people I until the end would begin who had to supported In those ten minutes, I thought about having a pity party for myself when I saw my supporters. I made a thought the committee had She had faith in her I those may have a big mistake. - was angry, I was sad and I was upset. But in same ten minutes, I sat there with six empty seats around me and thought, "Listen to yourself. how most people would act. me to down with me, or I the difficult faith. didn't take a spirit and a we had love of a family, because who People Cancer grandmother's in faith. FFA"s six new leaders.'" mediocre madness. Even the future. be to Making in situation we have is, When we Our negative. And negative. Those type of it. down average people that can drag us my are, in who mind, people are too lazy to take control of their attitudes and make the most of the who People live from members, friends and family, made You all this too. year a success and thank you. for that, I You it see, was these me things that little going. Like your good you growing. and situation. above the A and a simple thing little sunsets. living a They ewe the mark of God's great touch. They were in Florida, Oregon, and Oklahoma, of faith begins with Many you. thing I have people can were the perfect ending day with one of you. They too. to spending a becomes talk soon, our actions worth attitudes, life become negative. And before we know it, we're just like everyone else. just not have liked so I enjoyed so much Have been the control over our are around negative people, our attitudes begin to become visions reality, controlling our challenging times, no matter what the attitudes. things attitudes that kept our most in little focused on I wanted I the it's much, Like the promise of hope and the human touch. They were e-mails have kept can growing experience, and even focused on where But of faith are not live a life myself together and focus on pull It is it caught up can be angry and upset and I drag others the can act I expect but life, my taken we family that would make it through times. She had simple mistake level of support and help us along the way, but it Today, another sun sets for me, But is plans, up to our individual commitment to soar like an eagle and not get caught up in mediocre lives you it is remember, their attitudes. our in so easy to be mediocre. But with a vision, good Lord has made see. Just little faith, attitude, you can be like that and and eagle soar. A chapter is almost complete book of my own, Mom, Dad, and K-State madness. mediocrity have learned to control that 's ok, the in this friends, it 's time—I'm coming home. Now there are going to be times when you visualize yourself flying and you have total control the hard of your attitude, but knocks of down your life front door. are beating That's Not only do I mean faith in a from up above, but mean I choose cannot have both. fear that our friends promises. power it is We We might break can fear the food school cafeteria. We I can to our individual caught up commitment an eagle and not get in their with one retiring address, well, we can fear that will all it work out. my try to would be a write a little year this entire crazy, but few words that I I it did would like to share with you. Last my grandmother. Countless hours She had been diagnosed with cancer. She had lived by herself for thirty years and this last matter was how This year my sick she got, No no matter away from home, all of ours, not just own. when she passed on she would be in Conventions, conferences, and Throughout how hard it was for my mom and our family, Grandma Ellen had faith that better place. was to be the biggest challenge she would face. a ends. sets, But a new one the corner. most of It's up that day. is sights. see, this year, I Many were From big flights. have seen the and fancy, you Vice President Gore, to the Japanese Sea. another day just you to As you to around make the leave this convention, decide what kind of you settle for going to have. Will mediocrity? Or will you expand your vision and sum up To in the Every time the sun attitude you're mediocre madness. can received a phone call from parents concerning and people can faith that everything will fall into place and June up to soar like might not go to college, or we can have Many of faith to live a life of fear or a life of We faith. life support and help us along the way, but faith. We and living a begins with you. faith in ourselves and faith in others. visions reality, controlling our attitudes, when you focus on yourself and your Making faith? FFA members, to let the sun set I rely on your challenge you on mediocre madness. Only then can you truly spread your wings and soar. Abby Dougherty, National FFA Secretary 72nd National FFA Convention Second Convention Session what matters most Let's see, To me having got this e-mail from Patrick in I Mississippi and he says what matters most to him "The people who is, morals that hold so dear to I me instilled in my the values and who friend According by will stay me Matt from to me to is a Illinois, "My Oklahoma e-mailed Kelly from up." "trust in is But how do I family what that child, I little can and do believe in myself." 13:13 which about giving others is Those three things love. and allow you success. It is Corinthians 1 faith, hope and will remain, hold true to help others important to and yourself achieve me to have of love-it can be one of the most remarkable things you do. ed to first ine be an astronaut so badly. I planets. wanted want- I to be the person to walk on Jupiter! So you can imag- my Jupiter disappointment when is found out that a gaseous planet and no one will ever be able to set foot there. astronaut, I I wanted Then other adventures. in the history and that So what mattered most my name dread in all after title or winning a to my me big deal because so didn't seem in third Americans put such a many people had done their wildest imagination. their faith in I cannot imagine the Armstrong must have had a risk. in himself But It means running It it. for a to having faith It in When you to was to take you I was learned all my home we in fourth grade, American history. about the pioneers settling We state. then moved on entered to learning about the the state piano competition. I went I became fascinated by the pioneers. I wanted to be a pioneer! my in piece, Clementi's Opus No. 36 movements one, two and three. and played I received a perfect score and attained that I I rating. decided to I was so pumped to a more level next year. D I picked out petition my I had piece. I the judge. played. my I faith that played It was I judge's crushed! my com- I I rating, read through all I I was competition I stopped taking lessons. I to was all it still maybe was amazed by the pioneers' story of everlasting hope. Many had travel west to require hav- of them went hungry, cold and to fight off illness. down I Families were to nothing but hope-it kept their pioneering totally chose I rained if it then decided that ing hope that stands the test of time. of the playing the piano and I To leave your home and an unknown land would had I lost interest in many times went cracked up to be. comments and he did not write was so heartone positive comment. broken. I sat outside the room and cried. After that learned that they traveled in being a pioneer wasn't had ever found out II into corn dust to under the wagon, no matter or snowed. heart out for the best When I would go some ears of without food and they had to sleep I could play I I freezing cold, It anxiously waited outside for results. and make corn bread. I thought that they had so many exciting adventures. But then had every played. rhythms and runs, so difficult it Trail Minor by Mozart. This was one of the most I Oregon out to the field and pick corn and crush move up be such faith in yourself, I in eighth received a Division faith Neil have encourage others and give them hope. grade I of Neil Armstrong, as he did what many believed the impossible. it. was beyond In 1969, millions and belief man that like for our parents and grandparents, this you? to yourself and faith in a higher power. in When the song Fantasy in take steps on the moon. Our generation grew up knowing It mean oral reasons in a career comes down When practiced and practiced. At the on moon. truly chapter or regional office, or I had set foot faith we rise faith in ourselves. studied Indiana and Armstrong. had and put that when we organizing a community activity. contest really aren't difficult pieces first to only It's the hurtful things development event, even though you star. With my involvement the FFA, I found out grade was becoming a famous astronaut like Neil Neil Armstrong was the successful means giving advanced books. could learn about third graders heart. not is say, but people say about us, but What does a Division But more than being an to be a great person people would write about my remember pioneer or even a what matters. do reports on listening to famous astronaut, a I the learning lab and what others become became very interested in space and astronauts. In fact, I became so interested that when I finished my work in class I would go to In third grade me to listening to above that having a experience that faith in yourself, encourage others with hope, and live a life my learned from mattered most was a country music have always loved the verse from I that most? I piano lost faith in myself. I natural to thought that what And God." As a my lost faith in I and can be one of the toughest things you'll ever have to do. is reply to the question, what matters I It skills what matters most Derin from Wisconsin says that what matters most to her "is that your goals. one person's remarks on only listen to one song. to the end." what matters most." What matters most to Jamie from Idaho is "family and friends who build me mattered most to him in and knowing you can accom- abilities plish Dusti heart." from Arizona says. "What matters most means believing faith yourself, having confidence in your spirit alive. address retiring we When To encourage and support someone in achieving their goals is to give them what love might look hope. the people in define love?" friends. While FFA was I Hawaii for in convention their state witnessed hope! I my think of I like, I music think of me met I to a waterfall They took so we could go there. swimming. Over by the waterfall. was a rock-a really big and our to the talent in life-family and Living a of love means taking care of the relationships with The reason we liked the Mandrell Show so much was because they were all sisters and shared their your family and friends. love for each other every Saturday night as they life Mahina. Jason and Shannon are three state officers There was no end stars. family. played and sang together. Growing taught up, my me many specifically parents and sisters lessons. remember I may not Mom the time I understand that love that's what we The singing may not have and close relationship because share in our family. been the same, but the closeness sure was. there Shannon slippery rock! to the top of the couldn't quite tried to make required. Even when Mahina it still proved Shannon was difficult. The lesson year, because of the it tremendous upper body strength help her. climb rock several times but to I how may have who am tried to me have given life I getting tired What matters the very most to talking to the We watched Shannon and Mahina is living a life need people to encourage are the ones We should continue to share love with everyone we meet. You can give love to others by helping I important supporters are! Sometimes they me homework assignment, new student in school, or simply encouraging someone to join FFA. to continue. make in to be After several her. hope how needed of love. a friend with a tough I I today. Mahina got Shannon to the top of that rock. It was Mahina's belief in Shannon that gave her the realized These special people the love be too attempts As learned the most this important relationships with families and friends are. my it and discouraged but Mahina kept encouraging that just is As a little child, I thought that what mattered most was being a famous astronaut, a pioneer or even a country music star. With my involvement us. who us stick with our goals and in the dreams. FFA, my name I found out that having a after title or winning a contest really aren't what matters. To give hope to others can be very and powerful. Let others positive your chapter and school, know in Dear FFA members. that you believe in them by the little things you do. Give them a good-luck card before they compete in the creed taught me how to make my bed or when Dad taught me how to fish. It was all of those little lessons that speaking contest. Give someone more instilled in responsibility for chapter activities, or today. simply give a ise you little hope. will be surprised I can prom- by what hap- More people will achieve greater success! What matters most me the values that I have moments with our family members that make us who we It's the little are. Thank you for the best year of my life! I have discovered this year that what matters most to is having FAITH in others and living a most own to you? answer. I myself, giving of life LOVE. What encourage you Once you HOPE me to matters to discover your do, then pursue those things passionately. pens. me is to providing hope for others to help them succeed. One of those moments happened every my Saturday night as tuned in to give others hope, it let's them know that you care about them. But more importantly you are living a life full ty convenient It was pret- me from believe in you, :) Mandrells and there just so happened I guess I can't pick just one thing that matters the I know when you have faith in when you encourage others with hope, and when you live a life of love that's when life most to me. But yourself, hope and love that verse I Abby because there were three of love. the greatest of these leads Sisters. Thanks again! I to be three of us. We "Faith, and watch Barbara Mandrell and The Mandrell When we sisters 1 is will remain but love." I love Corinthians. That to the question, "How do couldn't resist pretending to be the Mandrell Sisters. was Barbara, my Louise and was I My oldest sister sister Jill begins to matter. Erin was Irlene. We would sing along and pretend to be country Message sent! national chapter Sponsored by The National Chapter Award is Cargill and the National FFA Foundation General Fund designed to recognize excellence in chapter activities and programs. This year, 7,268 chapters vied for a National Chapter Award. Areas include developing student leaders, working together to form strong chapters and community development programs. The top three chapters were selected as Models of Innovation in student, chapter and community development. Students THREE STAR TWO STAR ALABAMA: ARIZONA: Chino Valley. CALIFORNIA: Ripon Peoria ARIZONA: Antelope, Gilbert ARKANSAS: Valley Springs CALIFORNIA: Arroyo Grande. COLORADO: McClave Norte, Fallbrook. Firebaugh, Fontana, GEORGIA: Eufaula Arickaree. Gilmer County, Jackson County La Puente Valley Fresno-Central, Rop. Norco, Quartz IDAHO: COLORADO: Cambridge, Kuna ILLINOIS: Amboy. Cissna Park. Pueblo County, Springfield. Valley. Franklin Center. stage and presented with a plaque. Olney, Seneca, Valmeyer CONNECTICUT: INDIANA: Adams Valley NATIONAL WINNER STUDENT DEVELOPMENT Freeman FFA Chapter, Nebraska Freeman FFA members participated in a wide variety of projects and events to enhance student development and increase involvement in their new chapter. Central, Benton DELAWARE: Central County, Western Boone, Woodlan FLORIDA: Armwood, IOWA: Dade City Creston, Harlan, KENTUCKY: Ansgar Apollo. Spencer Co MICHIGAN: Perry MINNESOTA: Benson, MISSOURI: Bay Smyrna. Sussex Caroline. Easton Clewiston, Senior, Durant Senior. East Senior. Ft. White Middle. Lafayette Senior, and radio spots. The chapter conducted a Tobacco Free damage of tobacco use and the benefits of a healthy lifestyle without tobacco. They also utilized a swine cooperative to enable non-rural members St. Presquelsle MARYLAND: the Housatonic Delphi. Shenandoah. Switzerland produced and presented agricultural television, newspaper Program demonstrating Woodlin Central. Carroll, Clinton Central, MAINE: Members Hill Eaton, Heohne. from each chapter were congratulated on Mount Vernon, Del New Smyrna Beach MS. North Marion. Okeechobee Brahman, Orlando Colonial, Pine Stillwater Aurora. Carthage. Ridge. Ponce de Leon, Sebring Senior Suwannee Senior Eldorado Springs, Marionville. GEORGIA: Monroe City R-l, North County, Irwin. Jeff Davis, Murray Bacon County, Colquitt the opportunity to try hands-on animal care. Shelby. Sweet Springs, Troy, Union County NATIONAL WINNER Salisbury, CHAPTER DEVELOPMENT MISSISSIPPI: Carthage IDAHO: NEBRASKA: ILLINOIS: Ashton. Blue Seneca FFA Chapter, Illinois The innovative members of the Seneca FFA Chapter coordinated an Agriculture Progress community Show for the improve public awareness of agricultural to education and the FFA. They also hosted the 1 1th Annual Seneca FFA Toy Show, Sale and Auction, which attracted more than 800 guests. The chapter profited more than $2,500 added on FFA Alumni to their land lab building. affiliate, the The building members house a will Meridian Dunbar-Avoca Science. Cisne, Clinton, Eldorado, NEVADA: Ruby Mountain, Silver Sage Morrisonville, NEW MEXICO: Alamogordo NORTH CAROLINA: South Greenville, Leroy, Manteno, Piedmont, Rowan Mount Payson, Serena, Somonauk-Leland, Comm. Warsaw, Webber INDIANA: Brownstown Central, Tri Valley NORTH DAKOTA: Rugby James Buchanon. Grassland, Spud Hill. Prairie NATIONAL WINNER Growers, West Snyder COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT SOUTH CAROLINA: STAR Academy IOWA: Algona, Garretson more than $40,000. FFA Chapter, South Dakota assisted living apartments. Their "Safety program provided the opportunity programs on safety to for is Elementary" members ranging from safety on the farm to riding the bus. This FFA G& SOUTH DAKOTA: McCook TENNESSEE: Bradley Central TEXAS: Bryan. Katy, Mansfield, in their efforts to Mission, Nacogdoches, VIRGINIA: Central, Weimar James Wood, Laurel Park, Park View Sr improve the community's financial health, preserve natural WASHINGTON: resources, promote citizenship and increase agricultural WISCONSIN: awareness. Garretson, West Central Central, Monroe Central. North Harrison, North Posey, Heights. South Oak Adams, Bison, Charles City, G, Maquoketa Valley, Marengo, Monticello, Mount Ayr., Osceola, Red Oak, Sibley-Ocheyedan, Vinton. Wapsie Valley, KANSAS: West Marshall Abilene, Arkansas City, to present elementary students with topics division recognized Garretson Aiken. Latta. Loris The Garretson FFA members improved lives of senior citizens in their hometown by constructing hanging plant boxes and filling them with home grown flowers for the Carroll. Newark, Paxton-Buckley-Loda, Carroll at Flora. office costing workshop, restrooms. kitchen and an Ag Bushnell-Prairie City, Chicago OHIO: Miami Trace PENNSYLVANIA: Conococheague/ sale ring, storage area, Ridge, Schuyler, Superior. Sutton, Syracuse- from the food stand, table rentals and auction commission. In cooperation with their Freeman, Norris, Monroe, Yelm Bloomer. Denmark, Pulaski, Spencer, Waupaca, Weyauwega-Fremont Atwood, Chapman. Highland, City, Holton, Marysville, Hill Mission Valley KENTUCKY: Central Hardin. Jessamine County. Meade County Scott County . TWO STAR continued Lancaster - Mennonite, Lenape AVTS, Manor. Middleburg, Dr. Larry Case, national I A I ad\ ism extends a handshake LOUISIANA: Hathaway, Lacassine. Midland, North Central High, Oak Grove Welsh Byron, Corunna. Marshall. Montague, Unionville- Wagener Strip. MINNESOTA: Battle Lake, Blue Menahga, Earth, Forest Lake. Nicollet, New and congratulations Central, - Salley Anderson County, Robertson. Lexington. McMinn TEXAS: Mazeppa Lake. Columbus, Klein Forest, Calallen. Central. Clear MISSOURI: Cameron. Klein Oak, Rockdale. Snyder Chillieothe. Clopton. Eldon. UTAH: Glasgow, Logan - Memphis, Milan, Fremont. Morgan VIRGINIA: Signal Dinwiddie. Louisa. Knob Middle. Strasburg. Turner Salem. Sarcoxie Carter County. WASHINGTON: Stonewall. Ashby KANSAS: Elma. Evergreen, Mabton. Mountain View, Onalaska, Peabody. Powell Valley KENTUCKY: TEXAS: Co., Blue Hill, Centura, Ritzville. Snohomish. Wenatchee. Fullerton, Northwest, Pender, Tri White River. Willapa County. Verdigre Winlock. Zillah NEW JERSEY: Allentown. WEST VIRGINIA: Penns Grove. Woodstown Ripley. NEW MEXICO: Wirt County Animas, Ravens wood, Roane County, St Marys, McLean Oldham Breckinridge, Co., Mercer, Ohio Co., Pendelton Co.. LOUISIANA: Beau Chene Del Valle, Devine. East Chambers, MASSACHUSETTES: Essex MINNESOTA: Brainerd. Fairfield. Garland, Montevideo, Randolph, Tracy, Klein, Will mar McCullough, McGregor, Central. Clear Lake, Granton, Loyal, Marshfield. Stevens Point, Verona Cuba-Rushford NORTH CAROLINA: Clinton, WYOMING: Paintrock West Carteret NORTH DAKOTA: Divide County. Garrison. Hillsboro. Lisbon. Turtle Lake Mercer OHIO: ONE STAR Anna. Blanchester, Bowling Green. East Clinton. ALABAMA: Geraldine ARKANSAS: New Bremen. Preble Shawnee. River Valley. Talawanda. Mountain Appleton City. Clark County R-I, Crane, East AS Gibbons OHIO: Ansonia. Canal Greenville, Lancaster, OKLAHOMA: Burlington, COLORADO: Chickasha, Durant, El Reno. Elgin, FLORIDA: Fairview. Glencoe, Grandfield, Orange Morris. Mulhall Pawnee. Tuttle, OREGON: - Orlando, Waynoka Canby, Central, Perrydale Columbia, West GEORGIA: Greenwood, Tom Bean. Tomball. Troup. Troy UTAH: Bear River. Emery VERMONT: Sr.. Summit Central Vermont VIRGINIA: Drewry Mason Middle. Ft. Defiance. Nelson Senior. Northumberland. Minster, Pettisville, River View, Sherando, Stuarts Draft. Walter S. Twin Valley Newman South, Wellington. West WASHINGTON: Muskingum, Wilmington Granger, Kettle Falls OKLAHOMA: WEST VIRGINIA: Carter, Grandview. Hampshire Cleveland, Fletcher, Konawa, WISCONSIN: Lookeba-Sickles, Medford, South Wayne, Elkhorn. Evansville. Mooreland. Ninnekah, Roland. Fort Atkinson, Lodi. Mishicot. Cook. Miller Black Hawk- County, Perry ILLINOIS: Indiana Creek, Monticello PENNSYLVANIA: Brothersvalley, Platte Valley Saltillo. Sealy. Lynchburg Clay, Marysville, Paris, Prairie Eureka, Righetti Piano East Senior Grantsville. South Grove CALIFORNIA: Pilot Point. High School. Ryan. Riverdale. Tri-Village, Versailles New High. Pleasanton. Quanah. Royal Sinton, Spring, Tidehaven, Elmwood. Jr., McKinney, Mexia, Navasota. MONTANA: Peerless NEW HAMPSHIRE: Region #9 NORTH DAKOTA: Maddock Melbourne. Home Lake Travis, Lewisville, Newton. Owensville Winchester. Cardington, London, Margaretta, National Trail. MISSOURI: Enterprise, Hardin Northern. Indian Valley, Hamshire- Humble. Jacksboro, Fannett, Caney, Northwest, Orange Grove. Nettleton NEW YORK: Brook. Clear Creek. Cleburne. Coldspring. Cotulla, Crawford. Barron, Big Foot, Magdalena. Mesa Vista Banquete. Brenham. Brownsboro. Burleson. Clear Webster Co. MISSISSIPPI: Neshoba WISCONSIN: Artesia, Aztec, Goddard. Valley. Gordonsville. Johnson County. North Knox. Solomon. South Barber Fulon. Shields Valley TENNESSEE: Buhler. Inman, Johnson County, Norton, Sabetha, Cathlamet. Cascade. Conrad. Flathead. Park. NEBRASKA: Chapter Cherokee, Dyersburg, East Riverside MONTANA: the National to in Milbank USC, Rogersville. chapter Elkton, Watertown-Mayer. Zumbrota- Gallatin. FFA County. Munford, Portland, Perham. Staples/Motley, Upsala, a top Award program. SOUTH DAKOTA: TENNESSEE: Sebewaing Ulm, SOUTH CAROLINA: Golden . MICHIGAN: Twin Valley Selinsgrove. IOWA: Agri-Power, Cascade, Edgewood, Hawkeye, Mid-Prairie, New Ryan. Verden, Woodland Montello. PENNSYLVANIA: Farm. Stratford. Waupun. Cowanesque, Wonewoc-Center Cumberland Valley SOUTH DAKOTA: Harrisburg. WYOMING: North Fayette Bluffs. national chapter Holstein. Prairie Wind Cheyenne. Pine River. 1 oo% States with increases in FFA Four states were recognized for having 100% FFA membership: membership North Dakota, Ohio and Oklahoma. This means include: these states has all their students who California, that every chapter in each of are enrolled in agricultural education as FFA members. Alaska Arizona A successful program will have quality classroom and laboratory instruction, a Georgia component (FFA) and a career preparation segment (supervised agricultural experience). These characteristics make agricultural education stand out from other programs because of the intracurricular nature of the programs and activities offered to students. Students benefit from the instruction they receive while they apply what they have learned to their career Indiana choice. Arkansas California Delaware leadership and recognition Louisiana Massachusetts Montana There are hundreds of other chapters membership, we pay tribute to in the country who have 100% FFA you and commend you on a superior job of preparing our youth for tomorrow. Nebraska Nevada New New Jersey York A representative from the Ohio association North Carolina Oregon Tennessee happily accepts recognition for achieving 1 00-percent membership, Utah West Virginia Wyoming as an Oklahoma representative looks on. 1 VIP citations Individuals providing exemplary service to the National FFA Organization received VIP Citations at the 72nd National FFA Convention, Oct. 27-30, including Dr. Clifton Braker of West AR; Ted Gregg CA; A. Charles Duane Acker of Atlantic. IA; Leon Schumacher of Columbia, MO: John W. Watkins of Marion, OH; Dr. Rosco Vaughn of Lorton, VA; Ken Milholland of Tenino, WA; Gov. Cecil H. Underwood of Charleston, WV; and Merle Bodmer of Racine, WI. In appreciation of their overwhelming generosity and support, these Fork, of Chico, Fischer of Carmel, IN; ten individuals Duane Acker John W. Watkins of of Atlantic, IA, Prospect, has been responsible for food OH, and agriculture programs for agricultural capacities for 18 various U.S. agencies, including years, directing the the United States Agriculture's Department of state Vaughn of Lorton, VA served as state supervisor for 20 served in various years and executive director for the Ohio FFA judging contests. Watkins currently serves as the Marion (USDA) Dr. Rosco were honored with VIP National Council for Agricultural Education for the past four years. Previously the state supervisor for International Cooperation and County Commissioner, where he New Development Office, chairs the Agriculture and Rural develop core competencies and a the Foreign Agriculture Service and the U.S. Affairs committee. Agency from for International his He retired former position as Ohio Mexico, Dr. Vaughn helped strategic plan for agricultural FFA education while serving as Development. Acker served as Agricultural Education state assistant Secretary for Science Supervisor administrative officer for the and Education at USDA until in 1985. advisor and chief New Mexico FFA Association. his retirement in 1993. Ted Gregg of Chico, CA, Dr. Leon Schumacher, professor of agriculture associate at the California Department of Education committee member and agricultural mechanics career Sacramento. in During served as statewide Agricultural worked Incentive Grant coordinator and in writer of the CDE "Blueprint for to encourage participation poultry science and production throughout the state of Washington. leadership, California's Superior FFA highly instrumental in Region produced establishing skill areas and Farmers. directing team activity. state proficiency state Dr. Clifton Braker. a professor at University of Arkansas 1 1 30 American ,910 State Farmers, 92 winners. 172 championship teams and 26 superintendent for the national mechanics career Carmel, IN, president and Dow CEO AgroSciences, has been a National He had for six years and recently served previously served for several years as a judge or contest and was in eliciting university students to assist with FFA mechanics career past 12 years, working through the to supply for the event. as a consultant in the skill activities active role in He served development and has taken an CDE planning. term. As a strong supporter of FFA and agricultural education. Underwood recently signed into credit for agriculture classes. A FFA member. Underwood former raise $7.2 million for the annual has served as chairman of the West for the campaign. He has also served on the development event (CDE) for the currently successfully directed the efforts to Trustees. in the national is Foundation Sponsors' has been active of FFA Board. He WV. serving his second gubernatorial law legislation mandating science Merle Bodmer of Waterford. WI, Case Corporation (CDE) for four years. as chairman of the National capital equipment Executive Sponsor campaign and $5.2 million CDE. agricultural national prepared public speaking career development event Charleston, of the 1 years and superintendent for the Gov. Cecil H. Underwood of A. Charles Fischer of three years prior to his retirement. highly instrumental served as state state officers. development event (CDE) for official for the event, He contest coordinator for West in Fork. Ark., served as associate agricultural retiring. his tenure. Milholland both of these roles, he has been In of Tenino, more than 30 years before He Excellence." Under Gregg's development event (CDE). WA, Ken Milholland taught agricultural education for University of Missouri in superintendent for the national a regional supervisor for the Columbia, Mo., served as both a is former agricultural consultant and FFA Board of Virginia State Advisory Council for Vocational Education. citations. honorary FFA degrees FFA Degree Honorary American the FFA and recipients exemplify the true mission with their its own way - FFA supporters meaning of of expressing premier leadership, personal growth and career success. Recipients of this distinguished degree remind members how and the importance of influential leaders are supporting a worthy cause. Recipients of this degree range from agricultural teachers who devote countless hours helping students to school and government officials offer their expertise for the good of who and the people involved. the organization The National FFA Organization Honorary American FFA Degree is presented to such individuals to thank them for their continued support of the FFA and agricultural education. During the Friday morning session these honored individuals received their plaques and esteemed appreciation from the national officers The Honorary FFA Degree program designed to honor is who have rendered outstanding service to FFA. FFA President, Lisa Ahrens, presents her parents individuals National with the degree. honorary FFA degrees ARIZONA: Kenneth A. ILLINOIS: William Tom B. Richard O. Johnson. Henning Sung Kim. ; Bob OKLAHOMA: Kendall Gregersen, Gold Canyon Johnson, ARKANSAS: DeKalb; Richard Ryan, Dekalb; Moraczweski. Minneapolis; Cantrell. Stillwater; Perry Schneider, Lincoln; Guy Oklahoma City Roland A. Thompson, Minneapolis; Ed Shonsey. PENNSYLVANIA: Golden Valley; Mark Schwarz. Westfield Barry Farris, Beebe CALIFORNIA: Don Borges, Modesto; Lee Bucknell. Joliet; Hinckley; Robert Reedy, M. Van St. Paul; Brashears, Fairview R. Shoemaker, E. ; David Ron Hays. Michael G. Modesto; Alan Cover. Patten. Edwardsville; Jim Stenzel, St. Paul RHODE ISLAND: Modesto; Robert A. Flores. Williams. Bloomington MISSOURI: Millar, San Luis Obispo: Joseph INDIANA: Chesterfield; Frederic E. SOUTH CAROLINA: Martinez, Winters Indianapolis; Vicki Settle, Schrodt, Kansas City Rhoad, Columbia; Charles R. Nelson, Walnut Creek Indianapolis; Sue NEVADA: Bob DELAWARE: Indianapolis ; Phil John F. Jennifer Conway, Springirth. KENTUCKY: Morgan. Easton Metzger. Frankfort; Ron Scott. FLORIDA: Louisville; Cantonment; Gary Lee. Sebring; Earl J. Tampa; Joseph Lennard. Stephens. E. GEORGIA: Mary David Snowden, Workman, MARYLAND: Garcia, Iselin; Harrison R. Gardner, East Lansing Henry L. ; ; H. Paul TEXAS: Tommy Julian Benjie J. Howard Minigh. Davidson, J. Gainvesville; Joe Muller, Huntsville; Mike Nathanson. Parsippany; Christine T. Houston; Ben Shaw, Austin; Whitman. Trenton Lon Murry D. Avery, Alamogordo; Robert Robert Tunkhannock Ann Jamieson. Atlanta; Bender, Penns Grove Patricia West Kingston Sharpe. Columbia Reno; Robert W. NEW MEXICO: Louisville MICHIGAN: J. Wayford B. Louisville; Harold Valentine, Tallahassee Butler, NEW JERSEY: Tarburton. Dover; Sharon Foster Dickard. David L. Abbott, M. Shell, San Marcos; Herman Wilson. Houston VIRGINIA: Jerry H.Gass, Torres, Las Cruces Richmond; Jay Jackman. NORTH CAROLINA: Alexandria Graham Boyd. Richmond Raleigh; Barry ; Paul Stapleton, Roberts, East Lansing; Jim Croom, Raleigh; Robert H. WEST VIRGINIA: Reaves, Atlanta; Roy A. Stowe, Schrandt, Jackson Usry, Raleigh Renick, South Charleston Jefferson MINNESOTA: Tim OHIO: WISCONSIN: Purcell, Atlanta; IDAHO: Maynard Fosberg, A. Moscow; Donna M. Hyatt, Payette Bloomington; Clause, Joe Haines. Columbus; Benny James L. Alice K. Hite, Columbus; Irwin, Racine; Wallace H. Bernadette Siekman, Delaware; Jerome, Barron WYOMING: Saratoga Dick G. Hiser, honorary american FFA degree - agriculture teacher ALABAMA: NORTH DAKOTA: Florence; Carnngton Gregory D. Hamner. Mike Hogan.Troy; Joe F. Snell, Ariton; Thomas Swaffield. McCalla ^ p,MERIC4/V, OHIO: Gless. F. Poulson, Pettisville Mesa OKLAHOMA: ARKANSAS: Lemer, Nathan W. McNeal, West Lafayette; John ARIZONA: Ray Joel Alan G. Smith. Cushing Troy Buck, Amity OREGON: CALIFORNIA: William C. Rizor, Harrisburg Carl Arend, Yucaipa; Campbell; Roger Dickson, Modesto; Ron PENNSYLVANIA: Brian J. New Oxford; Robert Leib. Furtado, Livermore; Gary Hunt, La Mechanicsburg Joel Briggs. Littlerock; Bob Crabtree, Habra; Melissa McBride, Indio; Mooney, Gait; Douglas Campbell, Hugh Moss, Escondido; Robert Pearcy, Visalia; David Pritchard, RHODE ISLAND: David L. Lewis, North Scituate El Centra; Carl Wright, Gait SOUTH CAROLINA: COLORADO: Delbert R Chase. Benjamin W. Hardee, Loris McClave TEXAS: Ray IDAHO: Gary Abercrombie. Aberdeen Briscoe, Three Rivers; Herbert R. Casey, Jr.Teague; Jack DeShazo, Aledo; Dennis Ellebracht. San ILLINOIS: Mary Barnes, Barry Tammy Antonio; D. Glascock, Pilot Point; Paul A. Jaure, Beeville; KENTUCKY: Johnnie W. Mathias, Farmersville; Henderson MICHIGAN: Adrian; Bob Kenneth A. Bollinger, UTAH: Ron Whitson, Mansfield Nile D. Carlson. Clearfield; Allan R. Sulser, Heber City Stein, Standish MINNESOTA: Tim G. Larson. Nicollet VIRGINIA: Lemuel MISSOURI: Rod moment. Jennifer Conway planted a big kiss on national officer James Garner iter she received her Honorary American FFA the Degree. Massie. Barr. Maryville; Paul D. Light, Thayer; George R. Shively, Sr, WEST VIRGINIA: Ewiny; Martin F. Keyser NEBRASKA: Craig A. Frederick. Cairo; Wagner. Sarcoxie Lonnie Koepke, Broken Bow NORTH CAROLINA: William Jr., S. W. Thomas. Ringgold Arrington; Gary Overwhelmed by Donnie Kiker, Anson; James Weston, WISCONSIN: Mark I. Enzor, L. Carol W. Webb. Troy Lobdell, Darlington; Zimmerman. Spencer WYOMING: Randy Epler. Yoder Cerro Gordo; Harvey E. Franklin, Marshall; Michael J. Holt, Asheville; Charles L. Michel, Marshall; Roger H. Teeple, Black Mountain honorary FFA degrees tarents of national officers parents of STAR finalists retiring national FFA board of California: John Garner and Janet Garner Indiana: Iowa: David and Gwendolyn Dougherty Donald and Marylou Ahrens Star directors: Farmer Iowa: Jon and Carol Ann Jordahl Kansas: Chuck and Debbie Springer trustees and consultants Minnesota: Larry and Sherry Baumgardt Karen Hutchison Kansas: Robert and Melva Armbruster North Dakota: Roger and Jeanette Kenner Ernie Gill Jim Connors Ohio: Robert and Beverly Buxton Mike Cox Star in Agribusiness Illinois: JR. and Barb Harris Cindy Fannon Vosler Barry Anderson Puerto Rico: Ana Gonzalez Indiana: Dennis and Susan Bailey Marc Beitia William T. Oklahoma: Craig and Paula Hale Texas: Donald and Marilyn Weber Boehm outreach efforts FFA international programs Thanks programs, to international students from around the globe are able to enjoy the FFA experience. Highly structured programs for members ages 16 through 24 are EARTH offered through the New Seminar, Adventure Tour Zealand and the Australia Homestay Program as well as many other short-term programs. For older members ages 1 8 to 24, FFA offers longer-term internship experiences on agriculture operations, in other countries, internship experiences at United States Embassies for the Foreign Agricultural Service of USDA, or opportunities for a one-month experience at EARTH The Partners College in Costa Rica. in Active Learning Support program (PALS) is aimed at members with children in mentoring relationships. Workshops during taught FFA members how to relate to their young friends. pairing FFA the convention International awareness increased during convention at the career show's Global Village. Planned activities celebrated FFA 50 years of international programs, Partners in Active Learning Support (PALS) is a mentoring program matching high school agriculture students with elementary youngsters who have special needs. Developed FFA Organization, the program helps those including an international dinner, by the National an International Student Exchange involved to build trust in others and develop positive Program (ISEP) luncheon for self-esteem. German elementary students explore their interests students enrolled in American FFA, a Toyota teacher Through this program, high school and animals in plants, and the world around them. session and information program, dynamic education ethnic dancers and activities like The PALS mission Origami, Japanese name writing system that contributes to personal, academic and career development. The convention focused on mentoring and and making pinatas. included For more information about international programs, log FFA on to http://www.ffa.org/international or call toll-free 1-888-332-7853. is to provide a total, FFA members working with more than 700 The program was sponsored by the Fifth Third Bank of Kentucky, Electric Cooperatives and The Gheens third-graders. Foundation, Inc. Kraft Foods also donated lunch to participants of the PALS convention. all national FFA I alumni The National FFA Alumni alumni Association is an essential component to FFA members and future. The National FFA their Organization's continued success is and attributed to the devotion positive impact of alumni. This year the alumni conducted their 27th convention encompassing business sessions and award presentations. Their main focus, however, are the live and auctions. silent Last year alumni raised nearly $72,000 at the auction and this year the number topped $95,000. The alumni were extremely Going once, going twice. SOLD! This year's alumni auction raised $95,000 for programs sponsored by the alumni association. appreciative of the support from Scott County and the state of Kentucky. They welcomed the alumni and FFA members with a helping hand, making the move from Kansas City an easy transition. This year's auction provided bidders with a vast selection of items, from a 2000 Chevy truck, to a baler, a livestock trailer tickets to the National Finals If the fast-paced round and even ways of Rodeo. the auctioneer were not attendees style, plenty of items were available at the silent auction. The National FFA Alumni Association is composed of volunteers, including former FFA members, parents and others FFA alumni reminisced about past 72nd National FFA convention. interested in supporting the FFA. national conventions at their annual meeting at the Nationwide, about 45,000 supporters are FFA alumni members. foundation inguished service citations The Distinguished Service National FFA Citation was presented at the retiring board David L. Abbott: Retired President & CEO, Purina Mills. Inc. John L. Killmer: Ph.D., Managing Director. Monsanto Company John G. Middlebrook: Vice President & General Manager. Vehicle 72nd Convention, Oct. 28, to three companies and organizations providing outstanding service and opportunities to the National FFA Organization: Dow of Carol Stream. IL; Farm Progress Companies, Brand Marketing. General Motors Corporation Inc. Henry "Chic" Mohr: AgroSciences of Indianapolis, IN; Director of Market Development. National Shooting Sports Foundation, Inc. and The W.K. Kellogg Foundation of Battle Creek, MI. Robert Moraczewski: Senior Vice President & General Manager, Intertec Publishers. Agribusiness Division FFA For 44 years. Farm Progress has supported the National Kenwood providing support necessary for its president and publisher, FFA FFA Allan R. Johnson, to serve as chairman of the National Frederic E. Schrodt: Retired Vice President. Transportation, Foundation Sponsors' Board. The current publisher of the magazine, FFA New Horizons, which Farmland is mailed directly to the Guy more than 450,000 members. Farm Progress has played an integral part in the success of the C. Nichols: Vice Chairman and Executive Officer, Champion International Corporation Richard O. Ryan: Vice President, North American Markets, Monsanto Global Seed Group Foundation, contributing not only financial support, but Industries. Inc. R. Shoemaker: President, North American Flour Milling, Cargill magazine. Monty R. Summa: Vice President, Crop Protection Products. Agro Distribution, Through 44 years of service, agricultural education In 1996, the National at and company was FFA Dow FFA Herman through transition years. T. Wilson, Jr.: IMC President. AgriBusiness Inc. Equipment Co. President. Pioneer heavily involved in recruiting the Center to Indianapolis, offering a reduced cost for LLC Robert M. Van Patten: Retired AgroSciences has guide its site. In addition. Dow five acres of land AgroSciences continues as a five-star sponsor after investing $1.3 million dollars in the National FFA Foundation. The W.K. Kellogg Foundation has made several financial contributions to major agricultural education and The Foundation was FFA the lead contributor to the Project The National FFA Foundation projects. set PALS Program, made a contribution to Partners For a Safer Community and was initiative an all-time fundraising record in 1 999 to support annual programs for FFA projects and the sponsoring institution for the major and agricultural education. The Reinventing Agricultural Education (RAE) for the announcement was made during the Thursday evening session year 2020. that the FFA Foundation raised $7,310,000. The FFA recognized sponsors for their faithful support of the national organization. Al Johnson, president and publisher of Farm Progress Companies and A. Charles Fischer, president and CEO of Dow AgroSciences, earned the Distinguished Service Citation. 1999 National FFA Foundation Sponsors' Board Chairman T Boehm, said "the more than 1,300 sponsors are what make it all William contributions of possible in the preparation of FFAs future leaders and maintaining our vital agricultural community." Boehm introduced the 2000 National FFA Foundation Sponsors' Board Chairman-Elect R.W. "Bud" Porter, senior vice president. North American Marketing of Deere and Company. Porter announced 2000 Foundation theme is, the "Invest in Today's Generation." 1 5-25-35-50 year foundation I 50 Year Sponsors Lee Company, Shawnee Mission, KS Gold Kist, Inc., Atlanta, GA 35 Year Sponsors Associated Milk Producers, Inc., New Ulm, MN VA Virginia Agribusiness Council, Richmond, executive council 1999 Chairman Boehm, Vice President The Kroger Company William T. - Logistics, Paul J. Morel, Division - - Jr., West Chester, PA Bank in Philip, Philip, SD Bank of Hutchinson, Hutchinson, KS Bank of Fertile, Fertile, MN Friday Foundation, Incorporated, New Richmond, WI Ronald N. Goddard, NY Fayetteville, Elect Golden Harvest Seeds, Incorporated, Bloomington. IL Enos B. Heisey, Lebanon, PA Brand Strategy Manager, Ford Ford Motor Company M. Hendrickson, Darien, CT ISK BioSciences Corporation, Mentor, Rollie 1998 Chairman & CEO, A. Charles Fischer, President Dow CA First State Company 2007 Chairman Institute, Calcot, Ltd., Bakersfield, First National North American Agricultural Marketing. & 25 Year Sponsors American Morgan Horse First National 2000 Chairman - Elect R.W. "Bud" Porter, Senior Vice President, Deere MA Welch's, Concord, KenAG, Ashland, AgroSciences OH OH MN 2000 sponsors' board James C. Borel: Vice President & General Manager, DuPont Agricultural Products Gerald W. Brase: Senior Vice President, Merchandising & Marketing, Tractor Supply P. Burke: Christopher Max A. Director. M. Cashman: Fisher: Vice President, Public Relations and Communications, Purina Mills. Inc. Kenneth A. Gregersen: Industry Liaison. National Council for Agricultural J. Gundrum: Senior Vice President. Operations, Kraft Foods, Inc. Jerry Hardy: Assistant Vice President, Kansas City Service Region, Burlington & CEO, PNC Bank Lynn O. Henderson: President & CEO, Doane Agricultural Services Co. John R. Hill: Senior Vice President, Sales & Marketing, Lester Building Systems Michael N. Harreld: President Jerry Hillard: Vice President, Insurance Insurance Company/A Nationwide Trade Area Leader, Dow Staff, Farmland Mutual Company Management and North America Agribusiness Stan Howell: Global Leader, Urban Pest AgroSciences L. Irwin: Vice President, N.A. Agricultural Equipment Sales. Valley Farms Dairy, Inc., Williamsport, KS PA NY Phil Johnson: 15 Year Sponsors Don Armstrong, Okemos, MI John Ameson, Stoughton, President, Colle & McVoy Behlen Manufacturing Co., Columbus, Ph.D.. President & CEO, Agri-Growth, - Marketing Inc. Eric L. Moorehead, Ph.D.: Vice President, Technology, Kellogg Brown & Jr., Bunge Corporation, Larry & Louis, St. MO Joy Case, Fredericksburg, Grand Inc., NE FL Naples, VA NE Island, James H. Dunn, Yardley, PA Virgil The Eihusen Foundation, Grand Island. Ertl Company, Evergreen Mills, Ada, Inc., NE IA Dyersville, OK TX Gustafson LLC, Piano, Nick D. Hein, Carmel, IN W. Dale Hess, J. Diane D. Knutson: Vice President, Agricultural Products Transportation, Union Pacific Railroad S. Ladlie: WI Asgrow Seed - A division of the Monsanto Company, Des Moines, IA Fallston, MD Indiana Farmers Mutual Insurance Group, Indianapolis, Case Corporation James - Chief Industries, Northern Santa Fe Railroad James Schneider Wilbur L. Townsend, Auburn, Earle K. Borman. Education Lawrence Moridge Manufacturing, Incorporated, Moundridge, David Phillipson, Sarasota, FL Company Customer Business Development, The Coca-Cola Co. Senior Director of Product and Business Development. Pfizer Animal Health Curt Fankhauser: President & CEO, ffi Corporation Joseph Kristico, Incorporated, Mankato, Glenn D. Luedke, Woodbridge. VA COO, Royster-Clark, Inc. Dennis M. Plummer: Vice President, Global Marketing Global Seed Group, Monsanto Co. Richard Katt, Lincoln, Eugene C. Meyer, Fort Atkinson, WI Rhone-Poulenc Animal Nutrition, Alpharetta, & Business Development, Union Tools, USDA/Farm Service Agency, Washington, Robert G. Wells, Austin, WestWayne, Inc., Atlanta, GA Donald W. Wittnam, Greeley, CO Stanley A. Riemann: Executive Vice President and President, Crop Production WIX Bruce A. Scherr: President & Inc. Darrell J. Smith: Vice President Agricultural Investments, Metropolitan Life Insurance Co. Diane E. Stadlen: Senior Vice President, Filtration Products Division of CEO, Sparks Companies, CMF&Z DC MN Douglas E. Punke: Vice President, Merchandising Manager, North American Corn Milling, Cargill Division, Farmland Industries, Inc. GA TN Company, Nashville, Inc., Columbus, OH Tractor Supply Root, Inc. G. Kenneth Moshenek: President and TX NE Patrick Kaine, Austin, World-Wide Dana Corporation, Gastonia, Sires, Inc., Visalia, CA NC IN hall of states Alabama Association • Alaska Association Arizona Association 'Arkansas Association California Association Colorado Association Connecticut Association Delaware Association Idaho Association • • Indiana Association Kansas Association • Hawaii Association Illinois Association Iowa Association Kentucky Association • Louisiana Association Maryland Association Massachusetts Association Michigan Association Mississippi Association Montana Association • Nebraska Association New Hampshire Association New Jersey Association New Mexico Association New York Association FFA members were allowed to fully experience the career show by taking an active part company's displays. in North Dakota Association Ohio Association • Oregon Association Pennsylvania Association Puerto Rico Association South Carolina Association career show South Dakota Association Tennessee Association Utah Association • • Texas Association Virginia Association Wisconsin Association The was pleasantly congested with thousands of FFA members, traffic agricultural instructors and guests traveling though the largest Agricultural Career Show national convention has ever seen. This year's show set an all-time record with 349 exhibitors representing agribusiness firms, government and military agencies, agricultural corporations and other organizations from across the nation occupying 108,000 square feet of show space. This year's convention welcomed 97 new exhibitors to the show. The career show also offers 78 university and college booths providing members valuable information on the benefits of their college. This year, 39 state associations set-up booths proudly displaying their state and what makes them unique from others through pictures, paraphernalia and other information. Wyoming Association show exhibitors Hobar Public.itions/Finney Company Purdue University Horticopia Inc. Purina Mills, Hummert Racing Partners International Abraham Baldwin Ag College IMC Aero Publishing Institute AGCO Instructional Materials AgEd Network Instructional Agribusiness Career and Leadership Academy Consortium of Texas & Communications Agricultural Agricultural Resources Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources Salt Rhone Poulenc Ag Company Co. of Food Technologists Rilchie Industries, Inc. — Lab University of Missouri Materials Service— Texas A&M University Rose Acre Farms. Interstate Publishers, Inc. Sigma Alpha Iowa FFA Foundation, Silver State International Rodeo. Inc. Inc. John Deere Agro Venture John Deere Credit Agroiours Inc. Johnson AlChem Justin & Southern Arkansas University Wales University Boot Sorority Snap On Tools Society of American Florists Society of American Foresters Sooner Trailer Iowa State University College of Agriculture Iowa Western Livestock Judging Contest AgriSoIutions Industries Inc. Schradc Cutlery Jefferson Technical College Consortium of Nebraska Inc. Ranger Boats Husqvarna Southern Heritage Fundraising Company Southern Carbondale Illinois University at Kansas State University Southern Kentucky Vacations, Kentucky Department of Agriculture Southern States Cooperative American Angus Association Kentucky Department of Travel Southwest Missouri Stale University American Association for Vocational Kentucky Alexandria Technical College Gamma Rho Alpha Fraternity Down Under Inc. - Collegiate Starlight Visitors Association American Dairy Goat Association Kentucky Soybean Association Stone Manufacturing American Farm Bureau Federation Kentucky State University Stuppy Greenhouse Manufacturing Company American International Charolais Association Kentucky Thoroughbred Association Sullivan Colleges System American Morgan Horse Institute, Inc. SUNY Kentucky Turf Grass Council Wood Kentucky Kirkwood Community College TDDD American Quarter Horse Association Kosair Charities The The The The The The The The Products American Salers Association Kroger American Shorthorn Association L. C. .American Simmental Association LA-CO American Veterinary Medical Association Lake City Community College Animal Industry Foundation Lake Land Community College Applied Technologies Langdon Barber Groves, Aquacenter, Inc. Lester Building Aquascape Design, Inc. Industries Inc. & Supply Company Cobleskill Professional Training Center American Phytopathological Society Campbell Group Davey Tree Expert Company ErtI Company Goodyear Humane Ohio Tire Rubber Company University of Arizona PRCA Top Cut Showpig Bureau & Society of ihe United States State University Three Hills Lettering Manufacturing Inc. & Superior Growers Supply American National Cattlewomen, Inc. American Paint Horse Association Fund Raising. Rodeo, Inc. Aquatic Eco Systems Lexington Convention Archer Daniels Midland Co. Lincoln Electric Aubum Louisiana State University TruGreen LandCare Louisville Lincoln Tourism Region Tulsa Welding School Maple Grove Distributing. Inc. Maple Leaf Farms Mason County Fiscal Court Tyson Foods, U.S. Army Michelin Agricultural Tires U.S. Custom Michigan State University U.S. Department of Education Middlesborough/Pineville/Bell County Tourism Commission U.S. Fish B &H University Insurance Company Balanced Living Bayer Corporation, Agricultural Division Bekaert Wire Belgium Blue Breeders. Black Hawk Inc. College Brick Graphics by Gartex, Inc. Briggs & Visitors Company Tractor Supply Minorities Inc. in Sires Company Inc. U.S. Air Force Recruiting Miller Electric Mfg. Co. Stratton Corporation Buck Knives, Command Recruiting Harvesters. Inc. & Wildlife OVAE Service U.S. Marine Corps Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences (MANRRS) U.S. Navy Recruiting Command Burley Tobacco Growers Mississippi State University United Parcel Service (U.P.S.) Carhartt. Inc. Missouri Valley College University of Alaska Fairbanks Modesto Junior College Monsanto Company University of Arkansas Carolina Biological Supply Company CARQUEST Corporation CaselH Caterpillar Caterpillar Think Big & Convention Center - Cave City Tourist CENEX Harvest States-Land O'Lakes Women's Ceres International Fraternity National AgrAbility Program National Agricultural Aviation Association Chevron National Alliance of Independent Crop Consultants Chicago Mercantile Exchange National Antique Tractor Pullers Association (NAAE) Christian Kropf. Inc. National Association of Agricultural Educators Clemson University National Association of Colorado State University National Bison Association University of Florida Communicating for Agriculture Exchange Program National Cattlemen's Beef Association University of Georgia Cornell University National Council for Agricultural Education University of Illinois Crosman Airguns Crosswind Llamas National Council of Farmer Cooperatives University of Kentucky DATA MATCH. National Inc. Delaware State University National Delmar Publishers. National Inc. DeWALT Power Tools Direct Ag, Com Diversified Fund National National Raisers; Bob's Fund Raising Dodge National National Farm Broadcasters University of Kentucky University of Agriscience Fair University of Missouri Agriscience Student Award Program Display Alumni Association Programs and Activities - Platteville - River Falls Rodeo Association National Rifle Association of America National Shooting Sports Foundation Environmental Care, Inc. National Wild Turkey Federation Nationwide Equipment Manufacturers New Institute Holland Credit Corporation Facilitating Coordination in Agricultural Education North American Limousin Foundation FCAE North Carolina State University Farm Works Software Northeastern farmbid.com Northwest Missouri State University Farmers for Christ, International Northwestern College FarmHouse Northwestern Ohio Tractor Pullers Fraternity Farmland Industries Famham Dudgeon Civic Center & Frankfort Tourism & Convention Commission Fasti me Publications Fellowship of Christian Farmers International Firestone Agricultural Tire Company Florida Fruit Association. Inc. Food Distributors International Food Marketing Institute Ford Motor Company GBC Customized Oklahoma A&M College Ohio Agricultural Technical Institute Ohio Com Marketing Program FanmPage.com Calendars Wyoming USDA ARS Grain Marketing and Production Research Center USDA ARS - National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research USDA Cooperative State Research. Education and Extension Service USDA Economic Research Service USDA Farm Service Agency USDA Foreign Agricultural Service USDA Forest Service USDA Marketing and Regulatory Programs USDA National Agricultural Library USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service /CENSUS USDA National Animal Disease Center USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service USDA Office of Inspector General USDA Risk Management Agency USDA Rural Development Utah Slate University Ohio Curriculum Materials Service Ohio Extension Communication & Technology Ohio Soybean Council Vincennes University Oklahoma Curriculum & Instructional Oklahoma Panhandle State University Oklahoma State University Oklahoma Steel and Wire Walt Disney World Co. Oregon Slate University Oregon Trail Jerky Oscar Mayer Foods Georgia Boot/Durango Bool Golf Course Superintendents Association of America H & S Produce Papa John's International Hawkeye Community College Hendncksen Care of Tires Highwired.Nei Paul University of National Livestock Ethics Council Materials Center Virginia Tech. College of Agriculture Vita- Key Agricultural Education Ward's Natural Science Washington State University Welsh Products, Inc. Western Illinois University Western Kentucky University Winchester Ammunition-Olin Corporation Inc. WIX Fillers Products Division of Woman's Pennzoil Quaker State Wrangler Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. Zeecraft Tech. Company & Supplements Pennsylvania State University Presto Products Natural Resources —Columbia University of Puerto Rico— Mayaguez Campus University of Wisconsin — Madison University of Wisconsin (Partners) & Distance Learning Programs Minnesota— St. University of Wisconsin Eastern Kentucky University Environmental Sciences Davis Programs and Activities (Teachers) National Pork Producers Council EnviroQuip - Programs and Activities (Student) National High School & University of Delaware College of Agriculture Agricultural Youth Safety Education Dundee DuPont Network) Growers Association University of California Agn-Entrepreneurship Finalists Dow AgroSciences DTN (Data Transmission Citrus SALRM show Nashville Auto-Diesel College Chevrolet Motor Division FFA FFA FFA FFA FFA FFA FFA FFA - University of Arkansas Dept. of Crop, Soil MoorMan's, Inc. Morehead State University Murray State University NAPA Auto Parts National FFA Spec Cast Kentucky Farm Bureau Insurance Companies (AAVIM) Instructional Materials Dana Corporation Christian Temperance Union From "Living to serve" takes on a whole new meaning for students working on the courtesy corps. Health and safety concerns, podium removal and guest escorts - you name courtesy corps to make 1PHI stuffing envelopes to is there. it moving boxes | to distributing and These volunteers help FFA Today W*i newspapers, ™,Z?^% s *»M* 'fj ' * g~\ courtesy corps members made national convention a smooth- the convention running show. The pay to these outstanding by a success was nothing more than the sincere and thanks from the many members individuals attending to the gratitude details. and guests they helped serve. National convention would not be the same without mmsYM their help. m m Sponsored by Kosair Children's Hospital and Norton 1 Healthcare Dubois. Norwell. Prairie North Dakota: Career Tech, Isabella, Leroy, Heights, Scottsburg, South Killdeer, Odenville, Slocomb. West Ripley, Triton Central, A. BroylesNebraska: Western Boone Freeman, Hartington, McKinney. Clear Brook, Kansas: Johnson County Clear Lake, Columbus, Alabama: End, Eden Billingsley, Wetumpka Hillsboro, Powers Lake, Wm. Krum, Lewisville, Lubbock- Cooper, Madisonville, Mansfield, Marcus. Glen Rose, Oark Kentucky: Apollo, Barren Newman Grove, Waverly New Hampshire: Seacoast Arizona: Mesa. Mesquite, County, Boone County, School of Technology, Creek, DeSoto, Deweyville, Millenium, Parker Bracken County. Christian Franklin, Glen Rose, County, Edmonson County, WinnisquamOhio: Benjamin Logan, Buckeye Valley, Four Fleming County, Heath. County, Pickaway-Ross JVS, Connecticut: Northwestern Lincoln County, Nelson Ross, Regional County, Spencer County, Vantage, Warren Taylor County, Walton- Oklahoma: Verona, Washington County, City, Fort Gibson, Grandfield, Killeen/Ellison, Kirbyville, Webster County, Western Jenks, Reydon, Sapulpa, Memphis, Mexia, Miami, Morton, Needville, New Caney, Normangee, Arkansas: DeValls California: Sierra, Bluff. Pal IB rook, La Poway Armwood, Florida: Auburndale Deland Sr., Sr., Bunnell Sr.. Durant, Lake Wolfe County Region. Malone, Miami Sr., Hills, New Smyrna Beach North Louisiana: Mt. Hermon St. Henry, Talawanda, Aline-Cleo, Elk Sentinel, Silo Crandall, Crowley, Cypress Greenville, Groesbeck, Harrold, Hartley, Honey Grove, Huffman, Humble, Huntsville, Iola, Iowa Park, Idalou, Minnesota: Sibley County Oregon: Perrydale Pennsylvania: Cumberland Valley, West Snyder East Rhode Iowa: Anamosa, Dunkerton, Fox Valley, Iowa Falls-Alden. Iowa State University, Keota, Missouri: Aurora, North Scituate Rochelle, Rotan, Bloomfield. Chamois South Dakota: Alcester- Rayburn, San Marcos. Sanger Laurens V, Marion Sr., Sr., Northview Michigan: - Lothrop , Redland Middle, Taylor Umatilla, Williston New Sr., Sr. Marathon, Morrison, Couch, Gallatin R- Grundy County, Hermann, Island: Narragansett, Hudson, Harrisburg, McCook Northwest, Justin, Palestine East, Princeton, , Quanah, Sam Sealy, Snyder, Spring Central Branch, Stamford, The Maquoketa, North Fayette, Higginsville, Kansas City, Tennessee: Lincoln County, Woodlands-McCullough, Parma Koshkonong, Lamar, Linn McNairy Central Bean, Troy, Weatherford, Illinois: Georgetown-Ridge Farm, Hillsboro, Liberty, County R-I, Linn, Malta Bend Texas: A&M Consolidated, R-V, Marion County, Nevada, Aledo, Anderson, Athens, Windsor Norborne, Odessa, Schuyler Banquete, Bellaire, Indiana: Adams R-l, Tipton, Union, Walnut Blackwell, Bland, Bowie Central, Carroll, Clinton Prairie. Crothersville, Eastbrook, Indian Creek, LakeLand, North Newton, Northeast North Carolina: Southern Nash Crest, Canutillo, Cedar Hill, Willis, Wilson Virginia: Amelia County , Bryan, Caney Creek, Canton, Grove, Wheatland Weimar, Tom HS, Dinwiddie Tri-Point. Cedar Park, Channelview, Chico, , Pasadena, Pilot Point, Piano Wisconsin: Alma CenterLincoln, Elk New Mound, Lodi, Glarus, Oconto Falls, Pulaski, Sauk Whitehall Prairie, business The Kentucky Fair and Exposition Center was filled with delegates from each state as they worked on pending issues concerning the FFA. The group began sessions two days before convention actually began. They met for hours to draft proposals to be considered by the National FFA Organization board of directors. Delegates proudly represented their state associations during business meetings. Parliamentary procedure skills were put to work and business was conducted. The committee on Agricultural Education Trends recommended an alliance between agricultural education and industries to create an understanding by the The Career general public. Success Activities committee recommended the Degree contain American FFA a category for community service. The Membership, Recruitment and Participation committee recommended advertising a national campaign using billboards, the Internet and commercials. At the close of business Saturday, delegates left Freedom Hall with a sense of accomplishment and purpose, knowing they helped make a difference in the future of FFA. Patriotism prevailed at the national flag and county at the start FFA convention, students pledged their allegiance to the of each session. official delegates official PENNSYLVANIA: Amy ALASKA: Matthew Wilson. Diamond; Amy Kenley. Palmer Megan McReynolds, ALABAMA: Paasch. Grass Valley Association; Desiree Mendonca, Gustine: Douglas Lisa Jividen. / Bear River; Kari Zevenbergen, Sibley Ocheyedan; Hershey Tim Hibma. MAINE: Sibley Ocheyedan: Bryan Humphreys. River Forks IDAHO: Lance Zollinger, Declo; Dwight Little. Sugar Salem; Krystle Wengreen, Castleford; Greg Chaney, Geraldine: Joshua Dozier, Marbury; Nancy Paasch. Grass Valley Josh Johnson. Jacksonville; Jared River; Ashley Parker, Elk Grove; Mitchell. Daleville; Cassidy Ellison. Robertsdale; Grace Smith. Billingsby; Samantha Pepiot. Crescent City - Del Norte; Deanna Richmond. Quartz Hill; Alisha Turnbull. Lexington; Andrea Tracy Schohr, Gridley; W.S. Neal; Brooke Killen. Lexington; Lybbi Stiefel. White Simmons, Crescent City - Del Norte; Marcelo Soares. Lemoore; Jessica Thomas. Hanford; Michelle Vieira, Sara Spinazola. Serena; Ted Ufkes, Tulare Union: Valarie Walker, Grass Southeastern; Hill, Plains; Abby Dewberry. Jeanie Edwards. Lineville: Wetumpka; / Bear Amber Paul Durepo Roope, Presque MICHIGAN: II, Sakers. Milton Limestone: Jody Isle Ryan Sweeney. Mason; Mark Daniels, Standish-Sterling; Katie McCune. Kuna; Mishele Mittleider, Meridian ILLINOIS: Betsy Bakken, Lincoln; Confer. Perry-Morrice Beth Wilson, Olney; Robin Niehaus, Earth Area; Hector Matthys. Lakeview; Hillsboro; Sean Arians. Danny Metamora; MINNESTOA: Tammy Richard Prestegard. Blue Gilland. Cedar Mountain; Trista Colbenson. Rushford/Peterson; Mandy Kidrowski. Willmar; Justin Lessman. Tracy; Miller. Valley-Nevada Union; Trevor Weaver, Farmington; Lindsay Donovan, Mark Jennifer Edwards. Gaston Elk Grove; Dane White. Association Clinton: Hillary Lawler. Mulberry; Ladlie, Albert Lea: Sarah Clemenson, ARKANSAS: COLORADO: Rene Zumbrota Mazeppa Tremayne Wilson. Billingsley; Ryan Maloch, Emerson: Kristyn Woodrow, Cabot; Leah Willeford. DeValls Bluff; Samantha Goss. Camden Fairview; Sherry Baum, Bismarck: Kevin Smith, Gravette; Renee Green; Jeff Durham. Pratt, Karrie Blake. New Raymer; Thad Robertson. Yuma: B.J. Jones. McClave: Justin Hoozes, New Emily Kessler. Olney; Jeremy Putnam, Paxton- MISSOURI: Buckley Loda; Landon Lingle, Shasta Rentfrow. Senca; Kristen Curtis. Woodbury Alexandria Tsipouras. Middletown; Palmyra; Nancy Hildebrand. Lakeland; Zach Morris, Clinton Central; Joey Marten. Crews. Lewis Cass; David Newman. Couch: Gary Banderman. Lillian Wafford. Star Steve Breeding, Woodbridge FLORIDA: Central Stephanie Weuert. Peoria; Crystal Butler; Jarett Tyus. Sneads; CALIFORNIA: Fullerton; Kevin Mathy. Angela Browning, Grass DELAWARE: Michael Leventry, Marian Handlin. Middletown; Lafayette Sr.; William Dukes. Lake Jimmy Kyle Shaw. LeFils, Pine KANSAS: Beth Ludlum.Uniontown; Sarah Geiger. Troy; Adam Bear Zachary Bush, Grass Valley / Nevada Union; Erin Cardoza, Fresno-Central; April Chaney. Kerman; Andrew Hent/. South Panola; Kristen MONTANA: Amanda Smith, Pine Ridge; Interlachen Sr; Tattnall Co.; Jody Ryan Thomas. North Hopkins: Jennifer Armendariz. West Carteret; Tara Runion, O'Banion. Taylor; Jeffrey Rudy, South Rowan; Mark Ballard Memorial; Taylor Coots. Lewis. Lauren Buslinger. Bartlett Yancey; Christina Cox, Clayton; Robert Ellis, Harnett Central; Jennifer Gasque. St. Pauls; Bradley Kidd. East Carter; Jeremy Cox, Co.: Joanna Griffin. Berrien; Claudea Julie P'Pool, Trigg Meghan Tommy Logsdon, McLean: Brian Brammell. Underwodd. E.C.I. Emily Howard, Morgan Co.; Amanda Padgett. Franklin ; Christie Flechsenhar, Cascade; Mason, Chapman KENTUCKY: Brandon Reed, LaRue: Sara Williamson, Woodford; Joe Brandley Carter, Knox Central; / River; Lindsey Bugbee. Association; Amanda Patrick Black. Weir Diana Alamo, Miami Sr; Doug Kueker. Sweet MISSISSIPPI: Brandon Davis. Greene Buhler; James Covey, Wellington; Spencer; Lindsay Johnson, Logan Co.; Augusto. Leamoore; Krystal Bailey, Rivers; Courtney Everett. Clay Center; Jodi Sr.; Kennedy. Matt ARcher, Association; Melisa Emmons, Springs Austin Bryant, Hardee County Eustace Griffin, Brantley; Ben Paul Amador, Modesto; Melissa Ridge; Luke Fountain, Lake Region; Lucas Browning, Grass Valley Bear River; Jessica Allen, Hill; Union; Daniel Mothershead. Kelley-Benton; Cockrell. Mize; Heather Holley. Nettleton; Lang, Fallbrook; Debi Batini. Association; / Brandon Uchtman. Fordland; Slater; County; Joseph McCollum, Northeast Jones; Abby Sameck, Renee Melton. Dade City Sr; Lindsay Land. Suwannee Sr; Phillips Kox, Miami Sr. GEORGIA: Gregory Ellis. Murray; Valley Quartz Chillicothe: Colleen Stephanie Warner, Whitko; Matt Buckeye; Raney Grissom, Kofa: Chandler Abby Smith, Maysville; Glen Rose; Misty Smith, Decatur Murphy, Josha Worthington. Dadeville; Griswold, North Shelby; Jesse Heimer. Scott Priebe. Southmont: Academy; Renell Calloway. New Miami; Katie Robertson, Southwestern at Shelby; Megan McMichael. Scottsburg; Jared Nussbaum, Adams Petersen, Mogollon; Candice Grey Eagle; Kellie Dongola; Kelly Tilsey, Franklin Center Storrs; Leister, Prairie INDIANA: Stacey Stearns, Hilary Sepe, Brandon Long CONNECTICUT: Shannon Tubbs, Weiner: Kristen Cooper, Valley Springs: Rebecca Wherry. Fairview; Brandy Schall, ARIZONA: Jewell. Raymer; Heather Hays, Burlington Lee McMillan, Mattabeset; Ryan Colgan, Lebanon Regional; Prairie Melbourne; Mettler, Highland; LOUISIANA: Morgan Co.; Co. Greta Gautreaux, Bailey. Shields Valley; Jarod Linne', Flathead; Austin Knudsen. Culbertson NORTH CAROLINA: Amanda Nicholas Elliott, Northside; Chatham Central: Allison Jo McCabe. South Rowan; Jessica Skinner. South Rowan NORTH DAKOTA: Bryan Kenner. Paul. Coffee Co.; Jordan Cordeiro, Hanford; Victoria Jackson Co.; Erin East, Miller Co.; Central Lafourche; Keith Gates, Costa, Tulare Union; Molly Fagundes. Craig Pace. Effingham Co.; Brandi Lakeview; Heather Pierson. Atwater; Eric Finley, La Habra; Pritchett, Benjamin Fisher. Fresno-Central; Berrien Co.; Sanantonio Taylor, Tift; Thibodaux; Allison Bruchbaus. Elton; NEBRASKA: Mandy Foreman. Association; Emily Tyson, Portal High Kevin Moreau. Northwest; Tim Hall. Fix, Norris; Annthie Kramer. Sutton; Michelle Forsythe. Mariposa; Neil HAWAII: MaikoYajima, Grant; Gibson, Lucerne Valley; Melissa Lahainaluna; Leina'ala Posey, Pahoa Gomes. Association; IOWA: Scott Grumbles, Association; Tracy Haas, Association; Tim Hammerich, Santa rosa-EIsie Allen; Briana Jessen, Fresno-Central; Julie Kondoff, Morgan Hill-Live Oak: Alissa Lovett, Eureka; Cass High; Carl Stalvey. Nickolas McKenna. Vinton; Connie Reeves. Hathaway; MASSACHUSETTS: Mar; Seth Harrison, Anita; Brad Blum, Essex St. Wilton; Amber Wiebbecke, Ansgar; Maria Medici, Chariton; Amant; Anna Dearmon, Winnfield; Nikki Roach, Ruston; Amber Burch; Mt. Hermon Ryan Foor, Wapello; Debbie Kleitsch, Wapsie Valley; Hilary Johnson, Linn- Hammes, St. KC Toups, Bristol; Aaron Caswell. Joseph Lagasse, Smith: Corrine MARYLAND: Krista Lee Hartley. Devon Williams. Christian Wilson. Copen, Winterhaven-San Pasqual; Davis, St. Smego. Cassopolis; Liz Louis; Elizabeth Maddock: Aaron Anderson. Rugby: Dave Axt, McClusky; Dean Knell. Hazen; Jason Oehlke. Wahpcton; Shanna Gratton. Northwood Katie Sissel. Shickley; Craig Jill Kruger, Logan View; Erin Pocssnecher. West Holt; Paul Timm, Lyons-Decauter NEW HAMPSHIRE: Pinkerton; Amy Linnae Selinga. Fogarty. Winnisquam; Cherie Redmond. Dover NEW JERSEY: Nichole Steward. Norther Burlington; Keith Wassail. Northern Flintstone: Matt Koerner, Harford Burlington; Tech; Shaun Shriner. Catoctin Cooper. NEW Dawn Kaufman. HPT Central MEXICO: Azori Oakcrest; Laura - Leslie Utton, Aztec; Dodd. Melrose; Lightfoot. Animas; Tomee Shad Kyner, Los Lunas; Heath Rutherford. Clovis TENNESSEE: Adam Comer, Riverside: Julie Pedigo. Coffee; Stphanie Johnson. Stephanie Solorio, Glen Gaugh, Shannon Kim Reburn. Sara Rolen. Mall Barnes. Newsom, Craig Phillips. Holli Turner. Jill Bolton, TEXAS: Adam Byrd. Union Grove. Daniel Clayton, Bowie; Dusty Moore. Boy's Ranch: Ty Hamm. John Slaughter. Caney Creek; Shane Shockley, Breckenndge; Will Dickson, Lometa; Kimberly Wright, Penelope; Erin Schroeder. Madisonville: Heather Lawhon, Banquete: Benn Pigg, Valley; Carmen White Deer; Karen Terry, Wilhelm. Nazareth: Josh Jordan. Shallowater; Clay Cade. Rotan; Loren Wolf. NEVADA: Chad Wahoma; Jacob West. Sonora; Jason Venters. Ruby Mountain; Joseph Frey. Churchill County; Jessica Goicoechea, Ruby Mountain NEW YORK: Ann Beckerink, Clymer; Juleah Tolosky, Northern Adirondeck; Nicole Koerner, Letchworth; Mark Jefferson Hillsboro; Jason Sharp. Sentinel; Andy Vance. Hillsobor; Jesse Buxton, River Adam Bates. Pymatuning Valley; Greg Dague, Northwestern; Laura Dengler, Edgewood; Elaine McConnell, Wellington; Janice Bailey. Alexander; Heather Wells. Hardin Northern; Stephanie Shert/er, Bowling Green; Sue Hoop. Buckeye Trail OKLAHOMA: Mel Ray Albright, Balko; Jackie Pembrook, Fairview; Reydon; Justin Pratt, A.J. Butler, Davis; Jared Robison, Ringwood; Robyn Sites, Mt. View-Gotebo; David Turner, Eugaula; Brian Leedy, Wilburton; Chas Robbins, Spiro; Trevor Wedman, Yukon; Terrell Buck, Eugaula; Bambi Sidewell, Timberlake; Jennifer Hayes, Depew; Travis Bradshaw, Sterling; Christopher Kidd, Waurika; Rachel Waynoka; Amber Ramsey. Howe; Kendra Kelton, Muldrow; Becky Luke, Calera OREGON: Audrey Stockhoff, Union; Marc Smith, Woodbum; Sarah Irwin. Junction City; Nikki Jaeger. Henley; Jarid Knappa PENNSYLVANIA: Cumberland Adam Jr.. Valley; Bart Gill, Newport; Jr.. Bermudian; Larissa Baney. Selinsgrove; Maria Trego. West Snyder; Delegates diligently take notes during a business session and brainstorm ways to improve the FFA experience for thousands Sarrah Biddle. Williamsburg PUERTO RICO: Javier Moreno. Antonia Serrano. Johnathan Tossas, Antonia of members. Specialized committees were formed to debate Serrano. Noel Vargas, Laura Mercado, Dr. serious matters and report back to the general session. Jose Padin RHODE ISLAND: Adam SOUTH CAROLINA: Carrie Erin West, Wagener-Salley; Heather King. Belton- Honea Path; Lori Beth Rhodes. Manning; Myra Anne Walters. Pendleton; Erin Holliday. Lexington ATC; Jaime Marie McBee SOUTH DAKOTA: Damon Young, Hill; Mineola; Daniel Kessler. Linder-Kildare; Jessica Matthew Kempen. Foster, Big Sandy; Somerset; Alyson Lyles. Devine; Marcy Melton. Lampasas; Audrey Smith, Elgin; Dustin Clark. Waxahachie: Julie Wright. Midlothian: Phillip Smith. Brownsboro: Lyndsey Schneider. Hillsboro; Dustin Kinder. Livingston; Dustin Pearson, Huntsville; Jayson Hill, Cleveland: Jess Widener, Colmesneil; Reagan Pillack, Agua Duke; Amanda Thompson. Mission: Jeff Petter, Pleasanton; Paul Harding, Lyford: Greg Coats, Kilgore UTAH: Braden Hancock. Dixie; Melissa Swenson. Payson: Wyatt Gardiner. Morgan; Mandy Bushman. Bingham; Laurel Evans. Weber VIRGINIA: Leslie Funkhouser. Strasburg; Beth Stover. Turner Ashby; Scott Russell. Amanda Avery. Dinwiddie; Matthew Hickey, Buffalo Gap; Bart Kite. Page Co.; Bridget Sine, Central; Luke Turner. Louisa; Ben Grove, Turner Ashby VIRGIN ISLANDS: Sue Matty, St. Croix Educational Complex: Kimesha Michael, VERMONT: Kristin Quesnel. Middlebury: WASHINGTON: Abbie Kammerzell. Colfax; Joe Brown. Fernoale: Atiya Palmer. Medical Lake; Emily Hyland, Cascade: Amanda McKinley. Waitsburg: Desire'e Cordas. Sumner; Jessica Mackin. Rochester: Matthew Sweezea, Enunclaw Zillah; Tolea Morgan Irwin. Kamm, New Richmond: Trish Hieronimczak. Pulaski: Cindy Dipprey, Turtle Lake; Sara Zimmerman, Eau Claire Memorial: Katie Lee, Holmen: Jennifer Smith, Argyle; Tracy Smithback. Cambridge: Julie Holler. Lodi; Jake Peissig. Colby: Jim Melby. Waupaca; Matthew Reinders. Johnson Creek; Jed Bauer. Spencer: Cortney Peissig. Tanse Herrmann. Chamberlin; Katie Turner. Alcester-Hudson; Roxanne Wagner, Tulare; Katy Home, Rapid City; Bobbie Jo Tomac. Rapid City Wisconsin Colby; Beth Planz, Waupaca. Rebecca Kyles. Green Bay Preble WEST VIRGINIA: Tyrell Childers, St. Marys; Jeremy Fletcher. Tyler; Benjamin Holmes. Belmont: Ravenswasu Collier. Philippi; Josh official St. Sidney Vander Wey, Vergenne WISCONSIN: Buxton, Scituate; Christal Etchells, Scituate Rivers, Weatherford; Joe Brhlick. Sherman; Carley Croix Central High School Agrisience Elio Chiarelli. Longenecker, Central Grove; Phillip Frankford Kaelly Blay. Carroll Co.: Jason Carpenter. Culpeper: Johnson, Elmore City; Matt Adair, Burley, Wes Cooper, Olney; Matt Bell, David Dixou. Stephanville; Wood, Cedar Matt Smith, Benjamin Logan; Heath Eisele.Talawanda; Doug Shannon, View; Pearland; Jonathan Mallard. Krum; Brad Mabry. Henerson, Greenville; Candice Stock, South OHIO: McClure, Caney Creek; Matthew Wagener. Humble; Tracy Tomascik. Buckholts: Darrell Bowers. Tiehaven; James McKendree. Christy Morrison. WYOMING: Jeremy Burkett. Burns: Jessica Clark, Burns: Michelle Vigil. Riversude: Stacy Child. Cheyenne You have mail! FFA members were able to send electronic postcards across the country using computer stations. Computer laboratories were sponsored by USAccessBank.A Division of The Central Inc. Bank USA, and DoughNet as a special project of the National FFA Foundation. committee reports agricultural Respectfully Submitted: education trends Tolea We recommend: Alliance Development *1. Develop media alliances allowing agricultural education and FFA to be seen, heard and read by the general public. Develop promotional pieces to be distributed to school administrators and faculty, parents and other interested parties to illustrate the benefits of agricultural education and FFA. Develop materials for advisors and state officers addressing the do's and don'ts of developing and continuing alliance support. Establish in FFA New Horizons and the FFA web site an alliance recognition page with references to their support. Build alliances with federal officials, including the U.S. President, to build recognition and support for 2. 3. 4. 5. agricultural education and FFA. Technologies and Teaching Strategies program with computer access (allowing students to experience new technologies such as e-mail, world wide web and power point). Develop a national program to educate teachers on the importance and benefits of teaching students about *1. Create a partnership with industry sponsorship to provide every agriculture 2. new technologies available in agriculture. Create a partnership with National FFA and the agriculture industry to develop a curriculum for an advancement in agriculture technology class for students. Establish a system of updates on new technology to be used by educators to teach students (i.e., CD-ROM, video, newsletters). the 3. 4. (Chair) MN Trista Colbenson, Craig Fix, NE Heather Pierson, Amanda Jeffrey LA NC Williams, Rudy, KY NV Jessica Goicoechea, Luke Browning, CA Tanse Herrmann, SD Create a directory of state representatives from national sponsors. 6. Kamm, WI Ryan Maloch, AR (Vice Chair) Braden Hancock, UT Dave Axt, ND Ben Pigg, TX Keith Wassal, NJ Kevin Mathy, CA MO Abby Smith, Jared Robison, WA OK Nicole Koerner, NY Desiree Cordas, WI Sara Zimmerman, OR Howard, GA Jarid Burley, Teacher Development *1 . That the FFA New Emily Horizons create a section for star agriculture teachers in conjunction with the star student section to give recognition to agricultural educators. That the National FFA Organization develop a "sister school" program, allowing for communication and interaction between chapters and advisors nationwide. That the National FFA Organization update statistics and information about job opportunities available to agricultural education instructors in each state, by contact of all state associations. Develop an interstate agriculture student exchange program following the same structure as the international FFA exchange program. Establish a nationally recognized agriculture program such as "Gold Emblem Chapters" as models for other 2. 3. 4. 5. 1 . 3. 4. 5. 6. Bart Gill, VA OH Bates, PA Justin Pratt, OK Christian Wilson, to state staff and teacher educators. New Horizons run a permanent article featuring information the FFA web site providing extra information on them. That the FFA Debi Batini, NE TX TX Will Dickison, Stephanie Solorio, topics with 2. Adam teaching techniques. TN CA MA NM Aaron Caswell, Agricultural Literacy * Jason Carpenter, Explore the possibility for developing materials for state and local use to improve new teachers and new Improve promotion of new teacher workshop 7. TX OH Kimberly Wright, chapters in that state. 6. Erin Schroeder, Jesse Buxton, on one or two hot agricultural That a task force be set up to explore ways that agricultural aspects can be incorporated into other disciplines. That the National FFA Organization develop a packet consisting of ideas state associations use at large publicevents (ie: State Fairs and convention) to promote agricultural literacy, and the resources to be utilized at such functions. That the agricultural issue forum be promoted more often to encourage participation; and the Food For America Program be expanded to include grades 6-8, 9-12 and adults. That the National FFA Organization use the media to promote agricultural awareness (for example, TV commercials and world wide web). That the FFA New Horizons be sent to major supporters and administrators. Azori Dodd, Josh Dozier, AL CA Krystal Bailey, Adam Lang, KS Justin Hoozee, CO Robin Niehaus, IL Hilary Johnson, IA Kyle Shaw, FL Jennifer O'Banion, Matt Morris, IN KY A chapter activities We recommend: Community Development *1 Respectfully submitted: . 2. 3. KY (Chair) Amy Kenley, AK (Vice Chair) Brandon Reed, MD Krista Hartley, Carrie West, SC Matt Smith, OH * 1 . 2. 3. OK Jackie Pembrook, NY Ann Beckerik, WS Trish Hieronimack, Mariah Handlin, 2. 3. AR Sherry Baum, for state offieers, advisors and staff. Provide an instructional book. with a motivational video and complimenting CD-ROM. Utilize these resources to promote community development within all aspects of the National FFA, specifically all local chapters. Providing awards for chapters demonstrating excellence in any area of community development. Seeking financial support from the Council, the National FFA Foundation, and any other appropriate organizations for these initiatives. Chapter Awards WA Joe Brown, Community development workshops DE Offer grants to national winners in all three areas of the Program of Activities in the amount of $3,000 to be used at their discretion in addition to current awards. Assist with the cost for national finalists coming to national convention interviews. Make information more accessible by: Providing a web link that has an obtainable application, instructions, examples and e-mail addresses A. of contact persons. B. Featuring the winners in FFA New Horizons along with information about the award. Provide a teacher packet with information and example for current teachers and teacher educators. Provide workshops: A. At national convention for advisors and/or members. B. At state conventions, put on by the top chapters in the state. LeinaaTa Posey, HI TX TX Carnen Terry, Lorin Wolf, Amanda Padgett, Middle School FFA Opportunities *1 The development of career development events specifically tailored to meet curriculum needs of middle school FFA members, separate from ninth to twelfth grade contests, emphasizing middle school learning . GA Suggestions include: speaking events: opening/closing ceremony contest - - exploratory career developments (broad based) Promotion of middle school FFA chapters in our organization through: - - FFA New Horizons Magazine principles. CA Knell, ND Zach Bush, Dean JoshHolmes, Adam - - WV 2. Longenecker, Lauren Buslinger, - NC Karen Wilhelm, TX Glen Gaugh, TN WI LA Mandy Kidrowski, CA Nancy Hildebrand, MS Devon Lewis, NC Josh Johnson, AL Lindsey Bugbee, Phillips, 8. Agricultural Literacy * 1 OR Ben Kennedy, GA Samantha Goss, AL Erin Cardoza, CA Heather Hays, CO 2. Joey Martin, IN James Covey, KS Jesse Heimer, MO Sites, OK Josh Jordan, TX Robyn Amanda Avery, VA . Agricultural Literacy Video Applications Provide recognition of the top four agricultural literacy programs at the chapter level (chapter would apply with a video application). B. Application will be a 20-minute video that explains the program and the role of the chapter in informing the public about agricultural literacy. Have national recognition videos played during the four days of convention (e.g., the final four with one chapter recognized per day). This video can be used in conjunction with PALS, Food for America, Ag in the Classroom, etc. C. D. These applications can be judged on criteria such as creativity and presentation: however, the focus is not on an award, but to showcase chapters. Agricultural Literacy Improvements for FFA New Horizons A. Showcase chapters that promote agricultural literacy. B. Promote FFA opportunities and how they relate to agriculture careers (e.g., FFA livestock-judging contests help prepare for careers such as veterinary medicine, food science, production, etc.). Classified or wanted ads that give information on agriculture careers and their salaries, education, C. A. FL Sarah Edith Irwin, Continue to support and improve the EDGE conference. Provide a well-publicized national contact person who is responsible for the promotion, improvement, and implementation of middle school programs. 7. MN TX - share best practices. Include middle school training in a session of BLAST Off that would include communication and presentation techniques appropriate for middle school members. 6. Andrew Copen, CA Landon L. Lingle, IL Knox 4. I Connie Reeves, Clay Cade, 3. 5. Seth Harrison, UPDATE FFA Advisors Making a Difference Other publications Create a link on the National FFA Organization homepage that features middle school involvement and opportunities. Continue and improve middle school involvement at the national convention through workshops, luncheons, etc. Develop and distribute a teachers' packet to inform teachers of middle school FFA opportunities and to - - FL LeFils, Katie Lee, - - CA April Chaney, Immy PA and benefits. 3. D. Marginal notes or page borders giving quick FFA and/or agriculture facts. Multi-media A. Develop four agriculture literacy CD-ROM's at four levels elementary, junior high, high school and B. adult. Knowledge be provided Knowledge be provided for C. D. Target E. Quizzes be available on the new younger students through interactive activities. for higher level students through interactive quizzes. agriculture educators and schools without agriculture education programs. FFA Homepage or FFA New Horizons. committee reports career success activities We Recommend: American FFA Degree: * 1 . The American FFA Degree contain minimum service, with a a category for community service time determined by the National FFA Organization. Do not make the FFA Degree into two separate applications. The National FFA Organization should continue to look into 2. 3. future of inflation and overall to the economic conditions as they the relate American FFA Degree application. Career Development Events: *1. There should be a brief description of all Career Development Events in the New Horizons magazine and on the Internet. 2. To have 3. Recognize co-op programs tractor driving as a national contest. at the national level. Proficiency Award: *1 . We No 2. agree with the decisions made by the Proficiency Task Force. other proficiency areas should be changed. SAE: * 1 . Incorporate a grant/loan system, funded by corporate sponsors to provide students with a foundation for their 2. 3. 4. 5. SAE projects. an SAE component to BLAST Off or NLCSO to properly present SAE information. Hold an SAE fair at national convention and encourage states to hold an SAE fair at the state level. Develop an awards system to credit those chapters showing high productivity in SAE's. by awarding them with gift certificates from Ventures supply store. Recommend that SAE's be required in all agriculture education Add A representative from Husqvarna explains career opportunities to these attentive FFA members. curricula. Respectfully submitted: Adam J. Byrd,TX Corrine A. Blum, Lisa Jividen, (Chair) MA (Vice Chair) AL Paul Amador, Lee McMillan, CA CT Jody Underwodd, GA Debbie Kleitsch, IA CO Beth Wilson, IL Keith Gates, LA Maiko Yajima, HI Jody Roope, ME Krystle Wengreen, ID Tammy FL Jarrett Tyus, Joe Thomas, Shaun Shriner, MD Katie McCune, MI Jarod Linne', Janice Bailey, MO MT Marc Smith, TX Slaughter, TX John OH OK OR Lori Beth Rhodes, SC Ty Hamm, TX Shane Shockley, A J., Butler, OK Adam Buxton, RI Dusty Moore, MN Mel Ray Alright, Laura Cooper, NJ Greg Dague, OH Stephanie Johnson, Gilland, Amanda Hentz, MS Mark Elliott, NC KY Kristen Curtis, AR CA Melissa Augusto, AR Jessica Allen, CA Matt Archer, CA Leah Willeford, B J. Jones, Kristyn Woodrow, Scott Russell, TN TX VA Kirstin Quesnel, VT Cindy Dipprey, WI Benjamin Collier, FFA members participated in 22 career the convention, development events during from extemporaneous public speaking communications demonstration. This forestry Bernheim activity to agricultural was held at Forest. WV committee reports ... communications and public relations We recommend: Communications Technology and National FFA Online Review and reorganize National FFA Online by audience and 1 interests students/teachers/administrators, recruitment, personal stories, specific monitored chat rooms, state associations, applications, scholarships). (i.e., 2. 3. 4. Simplify state association web addresses and develop links from National FFA Online. Pursue the development of interactive CD-ROM's in the following areas: how to use the internet, how to build a webpage, how to correspond, CDE information, how to build your chapter (i.e., fundraising, activities, etc.). Web page promotion through personalization (i.e., e-mail, web link, state activities). Media Relations and Public Relations 1 2. 3. 4. Develop a Chapter Public Relations Guide including: information on key messages, press release formats, examples of correspondence, FFA Week ideas, sample Public Service Announcements, and a list of resources available. Include supplements in FFA New Horizons. Develop online surveys for best practices and ideas relative to public relations. (Publish results in FFA New Horizons.) Design motivational and exciting posters for schools that "fun" images of FFA. Seek national co-branding sponsor Papa John's pizza boxes). (i.e., show a variety of "Proud Sponsor of National FFA" on Evaluate timeliness of current promotional videos and resume distribution of convention highlights. 6. Develop FFA emblems that can be put on community billboards to be offered through the supply service catalog. Provide a link from the web site to AOL for creating chapter homepages. 7. 8. Gear website toward members. 9. Encourage state recognition of exceptional reporters. 10. Include motivational quotes in FFA New Horizons. 5. Delegates from Texas stand together, even after the grueling hours on the delegate floor. Delegates met Monday through Saturday for business sessions. Communications Strategies for Member Recruitment, Involvement, and Retention Programs Create links on the web site specifically for recruitment strategies and I . opportunities. Create a database of members' e-mail addresses by adding a column on the membership rosters for e-mail addresses. Add a place on the membership rosters to indicate chapter presidents so we tarcet these individuals with recruitment materials. may comm Respectfully submitted: 4. • ' Nick McKenna, IA (Chair) Renee Durham, AR Brandon Leister, AZ CA Jordan Cordeiro, CA Molly Fagundes, CA Mike Leventry, DE Thad Robertson, CO Luke Fountain, FL Meghan GA Victoria Costa, ' I Eric Finley, CA Davis, Dwight Little, ID Sean Arians, IL Taylor Coots, 1 Jared Mitchell, AL Kevin Smith, AR KY ME Lessman, MN Paul Durepo, Justin Brandon Uchtman, MO Annthie Kramer, NE Juleah Tolosky, NY Claudia Paul, OH OK Laura Dengler, Phillip Frankford Darrrell Bowers, Jr., TX TX Tracy Tomascik, Matt Jacob West, TX Emily Hyland, WA Tracy Smithback, WI Jennifer Smith, WI 4. Dawn Kaufman, NJ Jason McClure, Matthew Hickey, VA 3. MO Roxanne Wagner, SD TX Wagner, TX 2. Courtney Everett, KS K.C.Toups, LA Beth Smego, MI Zach Crews, Christina Cox, NC SC Shannon Reburn,TN Heather King, 1 GA Brian Leedy, Eisele, National Stephanie Warner, IN OH David Turner, OK Heath 5. Re-direct posters to non-agricultural students and create videos with exciting, casual dress scenes. Create a web-based e-mail server through www.ffa.org for member e-mail accounts. 5. PA 6. FFA Convention Communications Create a student communications team that will deal with on-site convention information topics like Internet access, news-stand information, event locations, etc. Strategically place television monitors around convention that will broadcast daily agendas and convention highlights. Also have scrolling marquis or kiosks display information. Place informative table tents on food court tables and other places where people congregate. Also place information in strategic locations (i.e.. bathroom stalls, local food places, on shuttle buses, etc.). Enhance the guidebook to include information about presenters'/speakers' key points. Provide an incentive program for members who attend different events (i.e., scavenger hunt, verification cards). Create a standard workshop for state officers to present addressing national convention. Try to set up an alliance with Channel-One News to promote and report on the national FFA convention. committee FFA We Recommend: publications FFA Home Page *1. Create a virtual help center, including a virtual assistant, to help the user. Include a pop-up character with voice feed (similar to assistant in Microsoft Office). Create a link to the National FFA's theme songs, including archives of past theme songs. Also, have current theme song play when home page comes up. Implement a national officer tracking link that highlights where the officers are during a certain time. Have voice feeds and pictures highlighting their travels. Remove old links and update links already on the page. Review facts that are currently on 2. 3. 4. the page. Create a link that 5. subjects. The lets members submit articles will articles to the home page focusing on identified be periodically removed. Handbook *1. An index consisting of informational key words should be inserted into the FFA Handbook. Replace the straight blue borders by alternating the color of margins between blue & gold. Cross-check information between the manual and the handbook. Devote one entire page to the National FFA Creed. Place key terms and vocabulary in the margins for easier teaching of important information. 2. 3. 4. 5. Manual *1. Insert an index consisting of informational key 2. Insert tabs in the Spiral binding the 4. Extra! Read all about it. These FFA members stayed abreast of convention happenings by reading the daily newspaper. FFA Today. The newspaper was sponsored by The Courier-Journal Lexington Herald Leader and Landmark 5. New * 1 . 3. 4. Ryan Foor, Ideas FFA acquires its own computer server with: site 6. A. B. by personal home page. Updating General Maintenance I Katie Turner, SD Nichole Steward, Elio Chiarelli, Leslie in FFA manual would make e-mail address. Put the Official Manual on the home page. Create partnership with other school clubs for help on chapter or local 5. IN (Chair) Melissa Swenson, UT (Vice Chair) FFA Manual. Links from national, state and chapter home pages Attaching web page to certain search engines Links to agricultural education technology Create database management system Improve professional appearance of FFA New Horizons A. Broadening advertisement base B. Creating a section for each age group C. Creating a calendar of events on the national level D. Referencing links in FFA New Horizons for specific topics Spiral-Bind Official Manuals that have tabs and are larger in size. Personalize home page and create a memory of previous visits to the 2. Scott Priebe, into the A. B. C. D. Communciations. Respectfully submitted: and black) words the table of contents applying alternating colors order to find information in the manual. reading much easier and accessible. In addition to the spiral bound manual, the traditional style manual would also be accessible. Include a drawing or picture in the FFA Manual showing official dress for men and women with detailing lines showing specific features of the uniform. Have an optional official opening/closing ceremonies for the parts of parliamentarian, students advisor, chaplain, and historian in the Official Manual. (red, white 3. Extra! manual corresponding with NJ FFA New Horizons * FFA New Horizons I . PA VA LA Funkhouser, Greta Gartreaux, implement a bolder, more mature and informative magazine cover that will be members through photo covers and visual structure through article previews. An electronic version of FFA New Horizons be made readily available, providing opportunities available to members, links to other state inserts, a preview page of what is to come in upcoming issues, an overview of past and current issues of interactions - all in an easily navigable web site. A page or half-page be established that provides members with links to Internet sites on various attractive to 2. 3. from scholarships, special interests, agricultural facts, associations/chapter links, and people/groups. FFA New Horizons periodically insert business reply cards with information on upcoming opportunities and events on the national level that members may want to receive more information on. A career sketch should be provided in each issue that highlights a specific career with a past member who has excelled in their field of interest or career choice. FFA New Horizons cover a broader spectrum of articles that will allow urban members to relate. topics 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 1 1 12. FFA New Horizons develop a national cover design search. FFA New Horizons feature a profile article of a past national officer 10, 15, or 20 years down the road, looking into their lives, families and what social developments they may have been involved with over the years. Include a quote, trivia question, joke, etc., on each page. FFA New Horizons develop an evaluation form to insert for member responses. FFA New Horizons look into new fresh advertisements that appeal to different groups. Provide all national officers' e-mail addresses for the members on the national officer Q&A page. leadership and personal development We recommend: Technology Implementation *1. Develop a grant program and application process to ensure that the chapters who truly need technology have an equal chance of obtaining it through a partnership with sponsors (starting at the state level and ending at the national level). Encourage the National FFA Organization to develop a technology task force to 2. reach a broader spectrum of FFA members in order to utilize current and 3. forthcoming technology. Encourage national staff to promote the production of promotional videos relatina to different divisions (i.e. area, district, region, section, etc.) at BLAST Program Refurbishment and Development The state officer continuum to include more 1. or detailed recruitment and fundraising them to state officers and chapters. National convention student workshops should be developed that will increase the awareness of FFA international programs and newly developed FFA leadership ideas *2. NLCSO Off. from associations and present all programs. 3. Use the state officer with younger 4. continuum to implement new ideas and techniques for working FFA members. That Advanced Leadership Development (ALD) program include an area involving the utilization of leadership skills developed at previous levels. Leadership Programs Promotion better utilization of web page and FFA New Horizons for promotional purposes, programs such as Experiencing Discovery, Growth and Excellence (EDGE), Made for Excellence (MFE). Advanced Leadership Development (ALD) and Washington Leadership Conference (WLC) by including dates and places of these programs for all states and the purpose of program. Create an exhibit to highlight FFA leadership programs at national and state Have for *2. conventions. Declare a "Greenhand Day" and use it to enrich greenhands' knowledge of advanced opportunity levels in the FFA. committee Program Evaluation *1. 2. 3. Traditional evaluation by number or scantron evaluations be replaced with creative evaluation methods (e.g., begin a conference with skits regarding more expectations, followed by another skit at the end of the conference where students demonstrate what they have learned). A suggestion box to provide a forum for comments regarding the conference. Evaluations should be relevant to the conference, conference theme and the age group of the participants involved. Evaluations should be sought periodically throughout the conference, instead of one overall evaluation submitted at the end of the conference only. Respectfully submitted: Gregory Bill Ellis, Leib, PA GA (Chair) (Vice Chair) AL Alisha Turnbull, Bambi Sidwell, Beth Stover, OK Brandi Pritchett, GA Bradley Carter, KY Jim Melby, WI Ryan Sweeney, MI Melissa Gomes, CA VA Betsy Bakken, IL Kelly Tilsey, IL Sarah Myers, OH Matt Barnes, TN Brad Mabry, TX Myra AZ Walters, SC Anna Dearmon, Katy Home, SD Terrell Buck, OK Amanda Dight, IA Wyatt Tim Hammerich, CA Stephanie Wellet, Joseph Lagasse, MA LA Gardiner, UT Joseph McCollum, Lillian Wafford, IN MS Erin Poessnecker, Carley Wood,TX JoeBrhlik,TX Alexandra Tsipouras, DE Daniel Mothershead, MO Daniel Clayton, Atiya Palmer, Melissa NE TX Diana Alamo, FL Mark Henerson, NY Jonathon Mallard, TX Scott Grumbles, CA Shannon Tubbs, AK WA Emmons, MO Andrea Hill, AL Matt Reinders, WI Important decisions regarding the FFA had to be made during convention week. Delegate support and discussion were a crucial session. committee We Recommend: Customer Relations *1 Insert two or three extra pages in the FFA New Horizons with products from the student catalog that students can order. Also, insert a request card for a student catalog in the magazine with questions (e.g., "Have you ever ordered from the student catalog before?") . After orders are received, send customers a confirmation card/e-mail with an expected shipment date. List their order so they can make sure the FFA center received the correct order. For Internet shopping, give passwords to each advisor to ensure security in ordering instead of using credit card numbers. The password will pull up information about the school, include billing address/person, etc. Use e-mail chat service (using same password as above) to answer questions during busy season if phones are busy. Offer more toll-free lines, including a suggestion line. Publicize the magazine modeling opportunities more, possibly in 2. 3. 4. marketing and merchandising 5. 6. FFA New Horizons, 7. 8. 9. 10. for the FFA catalog. Place shipping chart next to order form in catalog. Give specific sizes (in inches) of jewelry, such as earrings. Supply a lager variety of advisor gifts in the student catalog. Provide special phone numbers specifically for ordering jackets and call it "jacket line." Marketing Strategies * Respectfully submitted: 1 . Create a poster for FFA products featuring national and/or state officers for distribution to all chapters. Place accessories and other apparel on people to enhance the detail of 2. the product. AK Matt Wilson, (Chair) AZ Chrystal Peterson, (Vice Chair) 3. Use national and 4. Mail the catalog twice a year with spring and fall updates. Make the catalog easier to use by including a table of contents and staggered colored tabs along the side versus the top. Ask chapter and state web pages to add a link to the online store. Create a sizing chart for all clothing in the catalog. Create a tear-out or send a postcard to inform members about the online store and catalog, and encourage them to get a catalog. Offer coupons in FFA New Horizons for items in the catalog or the 5. AL AR Julie Kondoff, CA Alissa Lovett, CA Brooke Killen, Nikki Cooper, 6. 7. 8. Megan McReynolds, CA Desiree Mendonca, Amanda 9. CA Smith, models in the catalog. online store. CT Ryan Colgan, state officers as 10. FL Provide a way for members to submit their ideas for catalog and online store. new items in the GA Carl Stalvey, Kari Zevenbergen, IA Ted Lflves, Internet Store Evaluation IL * 1 . Renell Calloway, IN Tommy Logsdon, KY Allison Bruchhaus, 2. LA Matt Koerner, MI) (Co-Chair) 3. Mark Jewell, MN Doug Kueker, MO 4. visiting the on-line store. ND Selinga, NH (Co-Chair) Shanna Gratton, Leslie Utton, Chad NM Venters, NV menus and descriptions on separate scroll bars. Use better-quality pictures. Don't use models for on-line pictures. Use larger photos of logos on merchandise. Use more detailed merchandise descriptions including Put 5. Austin Knudsen, MT Tara Runion, NC (Co-Chair) Linnae Upgrade online store stock to include a complete catalog of National Convention Merchandise and FFA computer merchandise. Provide access codes for advisors and state staff to order awards, related products and FFA jackets. Increase advertising using e-mail, leaflets and on-line perks for using/ 6. 7. 8. Product Development (Co-Chair) OH Lindsey Pound, OH Travis Bradshaw, OK Jennifer Hayes, OK Audrey Stockhoff, OR (Co-Chair) * 1 Elaine McConnell, 2. 3. 4. Redesign quality of full-sized sports ball with the Larissa Baney, PA Jonathan Tossas, PR (Co-Chair) 7. Kim Newsom, TN 9. 10. Widen TX TX 5. 6. 8. 1 1 Jessica Foster, 12. Matthew Kempen,TX 13. TX Damon Young, TX 14. Daniel Kessler, 1 Bart Kite, VA Sidney Vander Wey, Morgan Irwin, Jed Bauer, WA WI Stacy Child, WY VT 5 16. Mandy Bushman, UT (Co-Chair) linens with the FFA emblem Add more Offer Offer Offer Offer Offer Offer Offer Offer Offer Offer Offer Offer 2 1 22. 23 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. emblem cookie (i.e. FFA emblem. pillowcases, sheets, etc.) cutter. can cozy /coolie. variety of caps and visors (vary shape, color, hat, patches). Offer blue and gold Christmas lights. Offer graduation tassels. Offer fleece vests. Offer embroidery on more merchandise. Offer Carhartt and Columbia jackets. Offer regular watches and clocks. 18. 19. and pants) and provide ice chest. 17. 20. official dress (skirts appropriate size charts. Offer bulk packaged official dress. Expand variety of bumper stickers/static-cling. Personalize license plate covers. Offer Offer Offer Offer Offer Greg Coats, size. jewelry. variety of overalls. shoestrings. mesh athletic shorts. spirit tattoos. FFA supporters/partners. FFA trading cards FFA wrapping paper. shirts for children's clothing. personal photo album and frames. collectors tin. thermal travel mug. FFA roping bag and dummy. program of activities Program of Activities: We recommend: *1. Scheduling time for committee meeting room preparation. 2. Scheduling meeting time for committee chairs, vice chairs and co-chairs. 3. Scheduling meeting time for committee chairs, vice and assistant delegate chairs, delegate coordinators coordinators. 4. Building in clarification delegate orientation at of the delegate process during national convention. 5. Formatting a template for committee reports. 6. Creating an understanding at the State President's Conference of the chair's, vice chair's and co-chair's roles as facilitators during the delegate process at national convention. Respectfully Submitted: Will Dukes, Davey Tree was one of on approach the 349 career show exhibits that featured a FL (Chair) Matt Wilson, AK Gregory Ellis, GA Nick McKenna, IA Scott Priebe, IN Sarah Geiger, KS Brandon Reed, KY hands- to agricultural careers. NE TX Kamm, WI Katie Sissel, Adam Tolea These FFA members enjoyed spending time together in Byrd, between convention sessions. committee reports I membership recruitment and participation We recommend: 100% Membership *1. Compile a 100% membership packet to bend to all chapters (including fundraisers for dues and rewards for chapters). campaign (billboards, Internet, commercials, etc.). Encourage states to establish a support system for all agricultural education teachers and include other agricultural associations. Promote chapter member ambassador/recruiter awards and recognition through FFA New Horizons and the FFA homepage. Promote 100% membership through FFA New Horizons. Start a national advertising 2. 3. 4. Respectfully submitted: Katie Sissel, NE 5. National Recruitment Programs *1 Split the National Recruitment Program into a two-phase application, beginning the first phase with recommendations from past state officer teams, and the second phase (Chair) MO (Vice Chair) Joshua Worthington, Lybbi Stiefel, AL Misty Smith, AR Candice Murphy, AZ Angela Browning, CA Douglas Paasch, CA . with objectives of current officer teams. Encourage states to provide FFA advisors/teachers and chapter officers with more effective ways to use recruitment/retention material. Feature the winner of state officer recognition program in FFA New Horizons. Recognize the winner of recognition program during the national convention session with an individual state plaque award and place state name on a national plaque award. Present the FFA guide to recruitment/retention to college agriculture professors. Award the winning state with a special entertainment feature that will be held during its state convention. 2. 3. 4. CA CA Samantha Pepiot, CA Nancy Paasch, 5. Ashley Parker, 6. Abby Sameck, FL Eustace Griffin, Member GA *1. San Antonio Taylor, GA Tim Hibma, IA Lindsay Donovan, IL Danny Miller, IL Katie Robertson, IN Beth Ludlum, KS Brian Brammell, KY Jeremy Cox, KY Kevin Moreau, LA Mark Daniels, Kellie Ladlie, 3. 4. 5. agricultural *1 NM 2. 3. 4. Maria Trego, PA 5. PR Holliday, SC Bolton, . Retention Educate agricultural education teachers via Internet tutorial (web site), hardcopy and conferences in order to motivate and retain members. Create an information packet to send to counselors and administrators showing the FFA connection to curriculum standards and the benefits of FFA. Send a personal letter directly to the homes of first-year members welcoming them to FFA. Develop a local recognition program to recognize quality supervised agricultural experience (SAE) using a gold/silver/bronze system. Continue supporting collegiate FFA and alumni membership; try to expand programs and distribute more information about post-secondary involvement. the Javier Moreno, Erin travel). Member NC Lightfoot, Joseph Frey, NV Doug Shannon, OH Stephanie Shertzer, OH Rachel Johnson, OK Nikki Jaeger, OR Jill communication, agricultural sales and international MI MN Bradley Kidd, Tomee 2. Benefits Create a welcome package targeted toward greenhands, emphasizing the opportunities available within the FFA. and send it directly to members. Develop chapter officer training emphasizing recruitment and retention of members nationwide. Publicize the benefits of three year membership through all available resources (ie. Manual. FFA New Horizons, web site). Implement an incentive program targeting advisors and/or chapters which will reward each chapter for recruitment (points toward FFA catalog). Better promote the diverse programs of the FFA by centering around the non-traditional, agricultural programs (i.e. proficiencies other than production, TN Adam Comer, TN TX TX Marcy Melton, TX Audrey Smith, TX Julie Wright, TX Laurel Evans, UT Dustin Clark, Alyson Lyles, Bridget Sine, VA Abbie Kammerzell, Christy Morrison, WA WV committee reports I Respectfully submitted: Will Dukes, FL (Chair) CO Karrie Blake, (Vice Chair) AL Tremayne Wilson, AL Becca Wherry, AR Michelle Vieira, CA Jeanie Edwards, CA CT Valarie Walker, Trevor Weaver, Dane Hilary Sepe, Lindsay Land, Emily Tyson, GA Lance Zollinger, ID Jared Nussbaum, IN Amber Burch, LA Nikki Roach, LA Colleen Griswold, Ryan Bailey, MO MT FL Bryan Humphreys, IA Emily Kessler. IL Sara Williamson, Justin Andy Vance, OH Kendra Kelton, OK Amy Sakers, PA KY Bowman, LA Sarah Clemenson, MN Heather Holley, MS Jessica Skinner, NM Heath Rutherford, Delegates actively participate in discussion on the delegate floor. CA CA White, CA Thomas, Jessica NC Candice Stock, NY Heather Wells, OH Becky Luke, OK Noel Vargas, PR TX TN Jayson Hill, TX Reagan Pillack, TX Jeff Petter, Ben Grove, VA Matthew Sweezea, Julie Pedigo, Paul Harding, TX Amanda Thompson, TX WA committee reports Rebecca Kyles, Jessica Clark, partner development We recommend: School and Community Involvement *1. To develop a presentation outline for state officers on partner development and retention based on the "Get Connected" handbook. The presentation's target audience will be local chapter leadership. 2. To include a page on the partner development section of the National FFA web site that will reinforce how to build school- and community-based partners, encourage partner retention and appreciation. 3. To use the FFA New Horizons magazine to raise awareness of students and teachers about partner development links on the National FFA home page. 4. Better organization of the partner development web page to make it easier for community and school leaders to find refevant partner links and continue to increase the number of these links. Building Partnerships *1 To have the Teacher Services Team and Communications Resources Team develop a program to promote partnerships. The program may include, but is not limited to, news releases, advertisements and recognition. 2. To provide training at NLCSO on the "Get Connected" handbook, enabling state . officers to spread the intern services. word to agriculture teachers/advisors during workshops or The Teacher Services Team to sponsor a partnership grant program for state officers similar to the existing recruitment/retention grants. 3. The National FFA Organization 4. to promote partner development by providing convention speakers and workshops targeting this topic. Material Information *] . The National FFA to strengthen the importance of partners in the community development section of the National Chapter Award application and Program of Activities. all Partner Development materials be available online and/or send to each chapter one free packet (including "Get Connected"). The Partners' table-top displays be sent to each state convention. The National FFA Organization to work with agricultural industry publications to familiarize present and potential partners with the FFA and the opportunities to provide their support. The National Organization to develop and distribute materials that help states create publications to inform partners of the achievements of members. The National Organization to develop and distribute an idea pamphlet that will help chapters develop and improve partner relations and increase support. That 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Alumni Relations *] The National FFA . 2. 3. 4. to provide grants to states for alumni plans and ideas similar to the recruitment and retention grants. FFA New Horizons to create an alumni theme for one section annually. To create an alumni/member function at national convention such as a discussion panel, luncheon or workshop. To have collegiate FFA activities at the national convention to link Collegiate FFA to the FFA Alumni. Julie Pedigo, WI WY Ryan TN MO OH Heather Holley, MS Andy Vance, Thomas, CA Mathew Sweezea, Hilary Sepe, WA CT Lance Zollinger, ID Heath Rutherford, NM Jeff Petter, TX WV Fletcher, Bailey, MT Jessica Clark, Jayson Hill, TX Trevor Weaver, CA Candice Stock, NY Colleen Griswold, Paul Harding, TX Jessica Jeremy OK Bryan Humphreys, IA Noel Vargas, PR Becky Kyles, WI NC Jessica Skinner, Sarah Clemenson, Becky Luke, OK Dane White, CA Becca Wherry, AR Michelle Vieira, MN CA Emily Tyson, GA Jared Nussbaum, IN Amy Sakers, PA Jerremy Fletcher, WV OK Heather Holley, MS Amanda Thompson, TX Lindsey Land, FL Kendra Kelton, Dane White, CA AR Michelle Vieira, CA Emily Tyson, GA Jessica Becca Wherry, Mathew Sweezea, WA Thomas, Hilary Sepe, CA CT Jared Nussbaum, IN Lance Zollinger, ID Heath Rutherford, NM Amy Jeff Petter, Sakers, Jeremy PA Fletcher, WV Amanda, Thompson, TX Jeremy Fletcher, WV Kendra Kelton, OK Lindsey Land, FL TX committee The nominating committee has the tough job of determining new national officers. Front Row: (left to right) Wendie Wallis, Katy Poth, Rob Shafer and Ginger Bright. Back Row: (left to right) Abel Wurmnest, Casey Roats. Matthew Webber. Lance Kuenning and Barrett Keene. auditing nominating Auditing: We. 1 Accepting the audit as a clean audit and as presented. Keeping the national dues at the current amount of $5 for the 2000-2001 year. . 2. Respectfully submitted: Christal Etchells, Corrine Blum, RI (Chair) MA (Secretary) Melissa Swenson, UT Ryan Maloch,AR Bill Leib, PA CO AK Karrie Blake, Amy Kenley, the Nominating Committee, have given careful and deliber- ate consideration to all applicants running for a national office. We recommend: Josh Worthington, The committee nominates the following slate of candidates delegates at the 72nd National FFA Convention to serve as national officers for the year 1999-2000. National Treasurer: Marion Fletcher, Arkansas National Executive Secretary: C. Coleman Harris, Washington, D.C. National Advisor: Larry D. Case, Washington. D.C. Vice President Central Region: Leslie Small, Arkansas City, Kansas Vice President Eastern Region: Joe Shultz, DeGraff. Ohio Vice President Southern Region: Carol Spruill, Hoschton, Georgia Vice President Western Region: Marshall Baker, Portales, MO to the New Mexico National Secretary: Jodee Ruppel, North Manchester, Indiana National President: Chris Vitelli, Plant City, Florida Respectfully submitted: Ginger Bright, OK (Chair) Abel Wurmnest, IL (Vice Chair) Robert Bell, SD DE Karen Hutchison, Charles Keels, NC Barrett Keene, FL Lance Kuenning, Katy Poth, OH Casey Roats, OR Rob Shafer, NE NM NM Robert Torres, Wendie Wallis, AR Matthew Webber, DE FFA convention national We recommend: Respectfully Submitted: Experience and Impact Sarah Geiger, *1. 2. 3. 4. Create an entertainment brochure or poster that highlights local attractions such as concerts, shopping malls, amusement parks, restaurants and the career fair to send directly to school and agricultural advisors to publicize all possible activities. Send promotional videos to state associations highlighting convention experiences such as a day in the life of a FFA member at national convention Have members submit positive personal experiences to FFA New Horizons magazine, stating their own personal experiences or snapshots of their trip. Make members more aware of workshops and activities at convention through commercials, posters and flyers. These methods should state the date, time, presenter and main focus of the workshop or activity. KS (Chair) MS Brandon Davis, (Vice-Chair) Sarah Biddle, PA Jamie Rivers, SC Abby Dewberry, AL PR Lilybeth Colon, Jennifer Edwards, Bobbie Jo Tomac, AL SD AR TN Raney Grissom, AZ Holli Turner, TN Brandy Schall, Craig Phillips, Membership *1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Create a day conference within the convention for younger members. Provide video and information packet to distribute to chapters. Offer national convention survey online with raffle prizes. Provide a game area to focus on agricultural trivia during down time (i.e. chapter feuds. Wheel of Fortune). Create a scavenger hunt with prizes to incorporate all aspects of national convention. Provide international food court to promote diversity. Provide workshops dealing with regional diversity. (Co-Chair) Deanna Richmond, CA Dustin LeNorman, TX Tracy Schohr, CA TX Dustin Pearson, I committee Convention Review 4. Provide more private and professional facilities for CDE's (i.e. noise level and preparation area). 4. 5. 6. 7. 9. 10. Contain convention activities such as interviews within the convention area (i.e. Executive Inn and Executive West Hotels). Create and send by mail a CDE-specific survey to send to advisors of all CDE participants, focusing on privacy, facilities, flow of contest and location. Create a separate entrance to convention hall for delegates, advisors and VIPs. Increase shuttle service for all hotels to convention facilities. Create off-area walkways to increase after hour security of FFA shopping mall and career show. Examine, and if necessary, reconstruct configuration of food court and shopping mall to utilize unoccupied space to fullest potential. Establish "FFA Lighting Up Louisville" as a tradition (i.e. fireworks). Analyze state and delegate photo quality and change if needed. Develop ideas to commend Louisville for hosting the national FFA convention. Activities in Action *1. To provide training and incentives (i.e. dinner, t-shirts, and award programs) to increase the quantity and quality to Courtesy Corps, due to the concern of short staffing all and enforcement of FFA members code of conduct and official dress at sessions. Create a supplement of the national convention guidebook called The Yellow Pages of Louisville for FFA members, which should include climate, places of interests, malls, 2. restaurants, hotels, parks, etc. 3. 4. Jessica WA Mackin, Amber Wiebbecke, IA Beth Planz, WI Hillary Lawler, IL Tyrell Childers, WV (Co-Chair) Rene Mettler, IL Jeremy Burkett, WY (Co-Chair) Megan McMichael, IN KY Julie P'Pool, Tim Hall, LA Jason Bibler, MI Hector Matthys, MN MO (Co-Chair) To improve information NC Aaron Anderson, ND (Co-Chair) Paul Timm, NE Amy Fogarty, NH (Co-Chair) officers. Continue the John Deere shuttles. always hard to say good-bye But these students have acquired memories and FFA friendships last Luke Turner, VA Brad Hammes, IA Christie Flechsenhar, concerning national convention and community activities (i.e. actual photos and maps of the city). Provide informal time to mingle with national It's TX Renee Melton, FL Jess Widner, TX Joanna Griffin, GA Shasta Renfrow, in FFA New Horizons and on the web page, 6. Phillip Smith, Posters at hotels' doors with convention schedule. given 5. Amber Simmons, CA Lyndsey Schneider, TX Marcelo Soares, CA a lifetime. to .. Allison McCabe, Shad Kyner, NM Jason Sharp, OH Matt Adair, OK Amber Ramsey, OK ( Co-Chair) MT (Co-Chair) 1999-2000 national FFA officer Chris Jodee R. Ruppel Vitelli Joe Shultz President Secretary Eastern Region Vice President Plant City, Florida North Manchester, Indiana DeGraff, Ohio Age: 20 Age: 20 Chapter: Plant City feeder swine and steers Enterprise: State FFA Area V FFA Chapter Office: Florida Association State Vice President FFA Awards: FFA Chapter Chapter: sheep production, agricultural Enterprise: FFA Office: Indian Lake State FFA FFA Chapter sheep production Enterprise: communications State national extemporaneous Age: 20 Chapter: Manchester Ohio Association Office: Indiana Association President winner recipient, state prepared public speaking President FFA Awards: national FFA scholarship public speaking winner, ornamental FFA Awards: horticulture demonstration state winner, state participant in county interview, majestic eagle leader award College and Major: University of Florida. College and Major: Purdue University, College and Major: The Ohio State sophomore, double majoring freshman, agricultural education and University, sophomore, agricultural education and agricultural leadership telecommunications education Career Goal: agriculture teacher Career Goal: agriculture teacher or Career Goal: education or lobbyist for an agribusiness management Leslie Small Carol Spruill Marshall Baker Central Region Vice President Southern Region Vice President Hoschton, Georgia Western Region Vice President Portales, New Mexico Age: Age: star in agribusiness in agricultural Lebanon, Indiana Age: 19 Chapter: Arkansas City diversified livestock Enterprise: State FFA FFA Chapter Office: Kansas Association President FFA Awards: national livestock team, state state public speaking contest, state dairy team College and Major: Kansas State University. in leadership, scrapbook and job Enterprise: horse boarding and showing, hay FFA oil state pre- pared public speaking winner, state electrical sophomore, agricultural economics wiring winner Career Goal: international agricultural College and Major: University of Georgia, systems sophomore, agricultural economics with an FFA Chapter crop and beef production New Mexico Association Office: FFA Awards: national poultry and forestry career development event high individual, resource Vice President and President Georgia Association President FFA Awards: human 19 Enterprise: State Office: finalist Chapter: Texico FFA Chapter production FFA sheep production proficiency finalist, state 19 Chapter: Jackson County State parliamentary law team, state creed winner, state member of the national champion parliamentary procedure team, state prepared public speaking and extemporaneous winner, state creed winner, reserve district star ani- national finalist for oil crop entrepreneurship, farmer College and Major: Austin College, fresh- mal science minor man, biology Career Goal: agricultural sales or law Career Goal: agriculture teacher or agribusiness Looavull. Luhvul. Lewisville. Looaville. LooeyviQe. YOUR K A IND OF PLA C /V Y WA Y YOU SA EL 3 Y IT FFA National Convention Dates 2000-2005 October 25-28, 2000 October 24-27, 2001 October 30-November 2, 2002 October 29-November 1, 2003 October 27-30, 2004 October 26-29, 2005 The National FFA Organization human beings and affirms seeks diversity in its its belief in the value of The Proceedings was prepared and published by Organization in all membership, leadership and the National staff. FFA cooperation with the U.S. Department of Education as a service to state and local agricultural education agencies. FFA Mission FFA makes a positive difference in the lives of students their potential for by developing premier leadership, personal gowth and career success through agricultural education. The Agricultural Education Mission The mission of Agricultural Education als for careers, build is to prepare and support individu- awareness and develop leadership for the food, fiber and natural resource systems. © 2000 National FFA Organization J* ProqrOm Building quality programs and putting school-to-career in action