National FUTURE FARMER Managing Editor

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Inside This Issue: Learning from the Land Ready to Lead WH^ WEAR JUST ANY HAT OR CX>LOGNE WHEN \0U CAN WEAR STETSON.

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j, stetson Hat Company Group, A Division of the John B. Stetson Company. 4500 Stetson Trail, St. Joseph, MO 64502 XallHiial TlThf J Tl ^ *uiurr*c(nner October-November, 1984

PaUlshed by Ihe Future Farmers of America Volume 33 Number 1 ISSN 0027-9315

A Word With The Editor In This Issue Learning From The Land Declining enrollment in vocational agri- This vo-ag department offers "hands on" class room experience. 14 nationwide concern. culture should be a WCP: Opening Doors To The Future Managing Editor Michael Wilson discusses More than leadership training; it's a crash course in friendship. 16 the problem below. — Wilson Games Hometown Boy Makes Good national officer returns to teach Many of you have signed up for another A former home agriculture. 24 year of vocational agriculture classes. If Homegrown Means Profits you've noticed fewer classmates, you're not FFA'er Merv Keagy uses marketing skills to sell produce. 26 alone. Unfortunately, some chairs that were full last spring are now empty. The Marshall Plan What is happening? Simply this: in our This Michigan family produces high-quality Suffolk Sheep. 28 to send education "back to country's fervor Computer Whiz basics," some high school students have FFA's first "Computers in Agriculture" winner is named. 30 discovered they are not able to take a vo-ag class, which is an "elective," and also take the SPECIAL SECTION: FFA Awards & Programs Insert classes necessary for college. Schools are This 16-page special insert gives detailed FFA information. 33 clamping a lid down on some students by Lead enforcing strict graduation requirements and Ready To to strengthen your leadership skills. piling on more "basic" science and math Tips on how 52 classes in order for students to enroll in a A Chance To Ranch four-year college later on. Matthew plans to be a rancher, despite the odds. 56 Trouble is, in the rush to get back to basics, many educators and elected officials High-Tech Dairy ^^ have forgotten just how basic vocational Two FFA brothers team up to bring computers into the family farm. OU agriculture is. No one denies the benefits of more basic education in the sciences, math or English. But for college-bound FFA members, there should not have to be a choice between vo-ag and college-prep classes. The larger question we must all face is this: what will happen to our nation's mighty agricultural industry when little priority is given to agricultural training in schools?

It stands to reason that if agriculture is to remain this country's number one industry, In Every Issue Chapter Scoop 58 then vocational agriculture in secondary schools must be treated as an important News In Brief 4 Careers in Agriculture 64 starting point. Vo-ag can no longer be Mailbag 9 FFA In Action 66 treated as just another elective, for very few elective high school classes have as much Looking Ahead 10 The Joke Page 74 relevance to society as one which defines the very core of human existence: the basics of Cover Description; Cover Photo by Michael Wilson food and fiber production. FFA members from the Page County Chapter, in Shenandoah, Virginia, find We stand to lose much more than just a out from former instructor Dan King how to measure grain moisture on their few empty chairs in a vo-ag classroom. schoors 35-acre land laboratory. Story on page 14.

Magazine Staff National Officers National Staff Advertising Offices

Editor-in-Chief. Wilson W. Games National President. Ron Wineinger, Route 2, National Advisor, Chief Executive Officer. Larry The National FUTURE FARMER Managing Editor. Michael Wilson Box 107, Marion, KS 66861; National Secretary. Case; Executive Secretary. Coleman Harris, P.O. Box 15160 Senior Editor, John M. Pitzer Bill Caraway, 1709 Glenarm, Clovis, NM 88101; National Treasurer, David A. Miller; Alexandria, VA 22309 703-360-3600 Publishing Assistant. Jo Colley National Vice Presidents. Rhonda Scheulen, Administrative Director, Wilson W. Carnes; Robert C. Whaley Contributing Editor. Shirley Jones P.O. Box 62, Loose Creek, 65054; Carol MO Manager of International Programs. Lennie 4605 Fulton. Suite No. 4 Director of Advertising. Glenn D. Irvine. P:0. Box 248, Gaithersburg, MD 20877; Gamage; FFA Program Specialist (Awards). Sherman Oaks. CA 91423 213-789-6681 Luedke Chuck Duggar, 202 Hall Street, Marianna, FL Robert Seefeldt; FFA Program Specialist Robert Flahive Company Advertising Assistant. Joyce Berryman 32446: Melody Lawson. 7202 West Thunderbird, (Contests), Ted Amick; FFA Program Specialist 22 Battery Street Circulation Fulfillment tvlanager. Peoria, AZ 85345. (Leadership). Tony Hoyt, Director of San Francisco, CA94111 415-781-4583 Dottie M. Hinkle Information, Cameron Dubes; Audio-visual Board of Directors Assistants. Specialist. William Stagg; Director of FFA Midwestern States: Pat Glenn, Ada George Chairman, Larry Case; f\Aembers of the Board. Supply Service, (Acting) Paul Kidd; Executive Ag/Group20. Inc. Dottie Welzel, Yvonne Byrnes Floyd Doering. Duane Nielsen, C, W. Reed, Lee Director FFA Alumni Association. Robert W. 400 N. Michigan Avenue Helen Daugherty. Longina Flakowicz Traver, Les Thompson, J. W. Warren, Donald E. Cox; Manager of Accounting. JoAnn Grimes. Chicago, IL 60611 312-644-5560 Wilson. Ohio, Pennsylvania. Delaware. New Jersey: Ag/Group20. Inc. P.O. Box 251 Old Greenwich, CT 06870 203-637^397

The National FUTURE FARMER (ISSN 0027-931 5) is published bimonthly by the Future Farmers of America, S632 Mount Vernon Highway, Alexandria, Virginia 22309. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The National FUTURE FARMER, P.O. Box 15160, Alexandria, Virginia 22309.

ADDRESS CHANGES: Send both old and new address to Circulation Department. The National FUTURE FARMER. P.O. Box 15160. Alexandria, Virgmia 22309, CORRESPONDENCE: Address all correspondence to: The National FUTURE FARMER. P.O. Box 15160, Alexandria. Virginia 22309. Offices located at the National FFA Center, approximately eight miles south of Alexandria. Virginia. SUBSCRIPTION: $2.50 per year in U.S. and possessions (FFA members $1.25 paid with dues). Single copy SOC; five or more 35

«,ooo AWARD-WINNERS, START early: The Wrangler Brand as a special that's the advice from 1983 FFA project through the National FFA in award winners to younger FFA Foundation, is available for purchase members. A study of regional FFA as a 1 6mm film or videotape through proficiency award winners reports the FFA Supply Service. 48.8 percent of these winning vo-ag FFA met at the National students set goals to achieve in the LEADERS FFA Center in Alexandria, Virginia, Awarded Monthly FFA proficiency award program as for the July board of directors high schoolfreshmen. Statistics show meeting 50 percent of the regional winners to discuss items of importance to FFA members. Here are a highlights: were high school graduates at the few • time they applied for the award. The board approved an increase in registration fees for the upcoming MORE FFA MEMBERS plan to National FFA Convention, from SIO attend vocational/technical schools to $12 per person. after graduation, according to a recent • The board moved to recommend survey conducted by The National that a study be conducted for the FUTURE FA RMER advertising development of an agribusiness test department. Over 75 percent of all activity, which will measure FFA members plan to continue their competencies needed in salesmanship, education after high school. About 41 job interviews, resume preparation and percent of these students plan to other skills. The project was referred attend a voc-tech school, compared to to the board's research committee. 35 percent in 1982. • The board reviewed and accepted new marketing and management "MOVING TOWARD excellence in activities for the revamped National SOE, FFA" was the theme of the 1984 Poultry and Dairy Foods Contests. National SOE Workshop, held in Draw The contests have been approved and Arlington, Virginia, this summer. The will be instituted in 1985 if funded as workshop drew over 200 vo-ag Me special projects through the National teachers, state staff members and FFA Foundation. teacher educators from across the You may win one of five $1,495.00 country to exchange ideas and THE REVISED FFA Student Art Scholarships or any one of fifty materials, solve problems and discuss Handbook is "one of the best $10.00 cash prizes. ways to make SOE programs more resources an FFA member can have to Make your drawing any size except effective. This was the second such learn more about getting involved in lil

Please enter my drawing in your monthly contest (please print)

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ii. The history of the Air Force is a history of men and women reaching for new horizons, dedi- cating their vision and courage to make our nation great. You can join us in our quest for new horizons. Our pay and benefits are better than ever, with opportunities for growth i, ^and challenge. Aim High! Find out more. ikSee your Air Force recruiter today or call toll free 1-800-423-USAF

m.'..V A 3reat way of life. Nineteen years old. International champion marksman, ivaiwK.n/III^E «^iwAMTIZB B youngest member of the U.S. Rifle Team at the World Shooting Championships, Caracas, Venezuela. Endowment Member of the National Rifle Association.

"When I started shooting ten years ago, I could hardly hold

up the rifle. I never imagined that someday I'd be competing in Europe and South America against some of the best athletes in the world. "Of course, it's taken a lot of determination and sacrifice. To shoot well, you have to practice almost every day. Often a match is won by just a point or t>A^o out of a possible 1200.

"My dad signed me up as an NRA Life Member when 1 started shooting. The NRA does a lot to promote the shooting sports by sponsoring events and providing coaches. I went to the U.S. Olympic Training Center for NRA Junior Olympic Training programs. There's no way a kid could stay interested or be able to learn about shooting without NRA." I'kn the NRA.

The NRA s responsible for the selection of America's Olympic Shooting Team and provides team members range facilities and training programs at the U.S. Olympic Tt-aining Center in Colorado Springs. If you >vould like to join the NRA and want more information about our programs and benefits, write Harlon Carter, Executive Vice President, P.O. Box 37484, Dept. MA-26, Washington, D.C. 20013.

Raid for by the members of the National Rifle Association of America. ; Maill>a& Bean FFA Scholarships receive photos and reports on the pilot I am currently enrolled in FFA and a projects. junior at Charles H. Milby Senior High Thanks again for your valuable colla- School. With not much time left of my boration. high school days I have been seriously Jafeth Garcia Rojas NRA considering my future. I have decided I National Coordinator would like to go on to college and major Bogota, Colombia Junior in in teacher's ag ed, to follow my Not complaining, but... footsteps. I think there should be fewer articles Member. only is family doesn't The problem my in The National FUTURE FARMER Junior membership is open to anyone have send off to enough money to me about people who have lots of land, 20 years of age or younger college and the local college isn't much animals and money. I have yet to read You'll benefit from many in the agriculture field. If you know of an article about a person who raises a year-round programs and any scholarships or loans or grants that few rabbits. Not everyone can afford to activities. Become a junior I appre- may be available to me, would raise a cow for their FFA project. Surely member today and: ciate any information you may be able there are some truly noteworthy people Receive InSights to give me that would help. Thank you. in this national organization NRA's shooting and hunting magazine for Colleen McAuliffe who raise capons or turkeys, not heifers all junior members. Houston, Texas and steers! > Participate in NRA There are currently scholar- These people are still many, many FFA'ers though Junior Olympic ships offered by the FFA through the and should therefore be recognized. Shooting Programs. National FFA Foundation. For a bro- Suzanne LoGalbo » Earn hunting awards. chure and application forms, write Scholar- Spring, Texas » All of tinis and more ship Committee, National FFA Center, for ONLY $5! P.O. Box 15160, Alexandria, VA 22309. This is my second year of being in the Deadline is January 1, 1985. —Ed. FFA. I love it but I have one small question. It seems like every agricultural- Boosting membership related success story with young people Much attention is focused on FFA is that they're almost born into it. You membership, which has dechned over read about someone who starts their the last few years. My home chapter has own ranch and that's great. But then come up with a possible solution to our somewhere along in the story you read problem that may benefit chapters in of his/ her family who lives on a 500-acre other states. Our Food For America ranch. And it just so happens that program is targeted at acquainting young he/ she owned their first calf at age four, children about where food comes from. which their father gave to them. Send a check or money order to Each spring chapter members visit I'm not complaining about your NRA MEMBERSHIP DIVISION the elementary schools throughout the 1600 RHODE ISLAND AVE., N.W. stories. It's just that it would be a nice WASHINGTON, D.C. 20036 county and explain about food origins. change to read about someone who is for one-year We show them a slide presentation that D Enclosed $5 starts out with absolutely nothing and membership dues. Four dollars deals with food production and sponsor of this amount is for a sub- no help from anyone. Then, after strug- a hayride along with a petting farm at scription to InSights junior gling, makes their dream come true. I'm magazine. our local land lab so the children can is $ 1 2 for one-year beginning to wonder if there is such a D Enclosed become better acquainted with agri- membership dues. Ten dollars person. cuhure and the FFA. of this amount is for a sub- Janet Riley scription to iDoth InSights and We also sponsor a coloring contest one senior NRA magazine. Visalia, California with the winner of each grade level Choose one: D THE AMERICAN HUNTER receiving an invitation to our chapter Sports fan n THE AMERICAN RIFLEMAN banquet and a ribbon. We show FFA The August-September issue had an POSTAGE: In Canada, add $2 per year In other presentations to students injunior high. countries, add $3. article on Bill Ruh and his Standard- The enthusiastic responses we have bred horses. I'm entering FFA for the received from children and their parents third year with such a project. I con- alike assure us of greater membership in gratulate you on giving some fame to the future. this exciting sport. City^ Janet Logsdon, Treasurer I must, however, correct you on a Kentucky Association Zip- mistake in one of your picture captions. The horse Bill was training was a pacer, Muchas gracias not a trotter. Trotters do not wear On behalf of the National Associ- hopples as part of their equipment while ation of the Future Farmers of Colombia pacers do. l\n the NRA. (Futuros Agricultores de Colombia) we As a Junior member of the Natlorial Rifle Association Amy Williams of America, I promise always to: want to express sincere gratitude to the • Handle firearms in a safe and responsible manner West Mansfield, Ohio and promote firearms safety. FFA Foundation and Asgrow Seed • Insist that my shooting sports companions conduct themselves in a safe and responsible manner. Company for the donation to our rural • Obey all range njles and the rules of connpetition shooting, youth programs of400 pounds ofvegetable Send letters or notes with name, address • Obey all game lav^s and support conservation efforts to assure the future of hunting. seeds. and chapter to: MAILBAG, The Na- • Uphold the Constitution of tlie United States of America and set an example of which all other The seeds were distributed to local tional FUTURE FARMER. P.O. Box members of the Association can be proud F.A. de C. chapters and have been 15160, Alexandria, VA 22309. All letters already planted. Very soon you will are subject to editing. Signature

October-November, 1984 1984 NATIONAL CONVENTION HIGHLIGHTS Saturday, November 3 Kansas City, 8:30 a.m. American Royal Parade Led by National FFA Officers Wednesday, November 7 | Here We 8 a.m. Convention Registration 12:30 p.m Educational tours Work 1-5 p.m. FFA Alumni convention 1:30-5 Come! p.m. National Agricultural Career | Show, Bartle Hall 2 p.m. Business Session with the 7:30 p.m. Vespers program National Officers Thursday November 8 7 a.m. Livestock Contest Old Timer. 8-8 p.m. Convention Registration Nursery/Landscape Contests 8:30 a.m. Floriculture, Milk Quality and Dairy Foods contests 9 a.m. Opening Session-Premiere FFA Over 22,000 FFA members, vo-ag Theme Shov/. Chapter Safety teachers, business and industry leaders Awards Special Guest Speaker will converge on Kansas City, Missouri Pat Summeral for the 57th annual National FFA Con- Noon Dairy Cattle Contest vention, November 8-10, 1984. 12:30 p.m Agricultural Mechanics Contest

The Convention will be organized 1 p.m. Alumni Leadership Workshop and conducted by the 1984 National Speaker: John Pope FFA Officer team. Official delegates 2 p.m. Second Session will conduct business and make decisions Extemporaneous Public affecting a fellow memership of 468,000 Speaking Contest, Delegate FFA members. Business Session Special The Convention will be held under Guest Speaker: Art Linkletter the new FFA theme, "Keep Agriculture 3 p.m. Alumni Leadership Workshop Speaker: Randy Hedge # 1 — Support FFA and Vocational Agri- culture." The theme was chosen in light 6:30 p.m. National FFA Talent Show of current challenges facing vocational 8 p'.m. Third Session Sponsor agriculture and FFA. Recognition, Stars Over The 1984 National FFA Convention America Pageant

will feature speeches from Sports An- Friday, November 9 | nouncer Pat Summerall, Art Linkletter 8-6 p.m. Convention Registration and Mamie McCullough. 8:30 a.m. Poultry, Nursery/Landscape For many FFA members, the conven- Contests tion gathering will be the culmination of 9 a.m. Fourth Session VIP Awards. hours working on speeches, applications BOAC Awards and judging skills. Both the national 11 a.m. Alumni Leadership Workshop Extemporaneous Public Speaking Con- Speaker: Bobby Tucker

test and National Prepared Public 1 p.m. Alumni Leadership Workshop Speaking Contest will be held during the Speaker: David Pearce convention, as well as many national 2 p.m. Fifth Session American Farmer judging contests and proficiency award Degrees, Alumni Recognition competitions. 3 p.m. Alumni Leadership Workshop FFA members will be treated to Speaker: Elvin Caraway activities outside the convention halls, 7 p.m. National FFA Band Concert also. During the week, former national 8 p.m. Sixth Session National FFA officers will be conducting leader- Proficiency Awards Pageant. ship workshops, sponsored by the FFA Prepared Public Speaking Alumni Association. Ne.xt door, the Contest National Agricultural Career Show will Saturday, November 10 feature hundreds of exhibits, allowing 8 a.m. -12 Convention Registration FFA'ers the chance to talk with represen- 9 a.m. Seventh Session International tatives from agribusiness and higher Activities, Announcement of education. Judging Contest Winners, In addition, the prestigious Stars Over Election of National Officers America Pageant will see two of FFA's Special Guest Speaker highest honors awarded: Star Farmer of Mamie McCullough

America, and Star Agribusinessman of 1 p.m. FFA Day at the American Royal America. For a profile of the candidates, Special Guest: Mickey Gllley see page 18. 6:30 p.m. The Best of FFA: If you plan to attend, see your chapter's A Musical Extravaganza Write (or your free Schrade Almanac to Schrade registration brochure for housing in- Municipal Auditorium Cutlery Coip.. Ellenvllle. N.Y. 12428-0590. formation. Check the schedule on this 8 p.m. Closing Session Installation of page for more details. ••• new National Officers

12 The Yalional Fl Tl RE FARMER ACME BOOT CO, INC PU BOX 749 CLARKSVILLE, TENN 37041-0749 A SUBSIDIARY OF NORTHWEST INDUSTRIES, INC CALL TOLL-FREE 1-800-251-1382 INTENN CALL 615-552-2000 dfSMS First, because they last. Right, Page County FFA'ers Sonny Cubbage and Gilbert Weaver check progress of the chapter's corn crop. Beiow, Keith Cubbage and Sharon Merica don goggles and protective masks to spray Christmas trees with insecticide.

Photos by Author Learn inc

THE Page County vo-ag department has a most unusual laboratory. It has no test tubes, beakers or Bunsen burners. No mad scientists, plotting the end of the world. In fact, the only thing this laboratory may have in common with others is a secret formula. For vo-ag students who use this scien- tific workshop, the formula is really no

secret at all: it's "hands on" training for the future. The laboratory is nothing less than a 35-acre plot of land managed by the school's vo-ag department under the direction of Advisors Warren Brill Above, vo-ag students appreciate shop FFA and Mike Brown. and classroom work more after working Page County High School, in Shenan- on the land lab. Below, community sup- doah, Virginia, is dwarfed by the majestic porters lend a hand during harvest. "From Blue Ridge mountains, a sight so riveting a teacher's standpoint, there's a little that the tiny piece of land found on the more work to the land lab," says Dan school's doorsteps might go overlooked. King. "But the motivation is worth it."

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COVER STORY

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This FFA Chapter's "laboratory" helps students get hands-on training for future careers. From The Land By Michael Wilson

"The land lab isn't glamorous," says Mr. until 1 982, the Page County lab was just good example, says Mr. King, by donat-

Brill, "but it is practical experience." another piece of land. ing chemicals for the corn field this year.

This year the school's laboratory fea- "Basically, it hadn't been cropped for "A farmer may put in his order at Farm tures 13 acres of field corn, 18 acres of seven years," he explains. "It was unpro- Bureau and tell those folks about what forestland, 3 acres of grassland and an ductive land, and we had to get involved we need," says Mr. King. "Pretty soon acre of Christmas trees. The vo-ag instruc- in reclaiming it." we'll get a call in to the vo-ag department, tors use the land to teach FFA members The Page County vo-ag department, asking 'How much do you needT" the basics of crop production, forestry FFA and Young Farmers organizations Work Experience and natural resource management. got an okay from the Page County From planting to harvesting. Page School Board to use the acreage. Ag To the students, the hands-on training County FFA members begin to under- teachers, FFA members, farmers and means work experience. That means a stand many aspects of production agri- local businessman set to work, preparing better chance at future jobs and future culture through the corn crop. With the the land for productivity. careers. Even the students with farm help of local agribusinessmen, alumni "A soil test was taken by FFA mem- experience benefit from the school's lab. and young farmers, students try their bers in March of 1982 to determine "We take time to figure out the hand at everything from applying chem- fertilizer requirements," says Mr. King. "whys" behind production and natural icals, taking grain moisture samples to Valley Fertilizer, a local company, ap- resource management," says Mr. King. testing soil acidity. plied the fertilizer and herbicides. Seed "We'll go out and disk a field and then As Keith Cubbage, 17-year-old chapter come back to the classroom and figure president says, it's the kind of learning the mechanical aspects like, 'Why do we KING: "The biggest benefit is the he can't get out of a textbook. operate this job at this gear?" "You can't get this on-the-job experi- feeling of confidence that a lot of The experience outside the classroom ence anywhere, unless you are actually students feel when they're apart helps students understand more in the working on a farm or in a job," says classroom, says Mr. King. "From a something successful. Keith, who does not live on a farm. of teacher's standpoint, there's a little more Keith wants to become involved in work to the land lab. But the motivation Foltz, collegiate athletics after high school corn was supplied by Glenn Dale is worth it." graduation. But he says farming may a local farmer and Pioneer dealer, and It's even more important to Page also be in his future, and by working in planted by FFA members with Mr. County students who don't have farm the field he can begin to make some Foltz's equipment. backgrounds. decisions. Mr. Foltz has continued to supply the "About 50 percent of our students New Forestry Skills chapter with equipment and Pioneer come from small towns and don't live on "I've definitely been able to apply seed corn. This year the chapter planted farms," says Mr. King. "A lot of them some of the things I've learned at the lab a test plot with 15 seed varieties. want that farm experience. to forestry judging contests," Keith says. Mr. Brill says the land lab could not "It helps them decide, 'Is this what I Former Page County FFA Advisor be successful without this kind of volun- really want to do with my life?' Dan King says, "Our county is about 43 teer community support. "The young "The biggest benefit is the feeling of percent forestland. A lot of it is not farmers are interested people who have confidence that a lot of kids feel when managed effectively. At Page County, some capacity in farming," he says. they're a part of something successful. A the students have the opportunity to "They are interested in making the ag lot of the things we do in FFA fall into learn clear-cutting, site preparation, program better. To a certain extent, that that category." reforestation, bulldozing, and the proper makes my job easier, as far as getting the And those mad scientists, plotting the way to burn off brush." work done." end of the world? They're just enthusiastic Mr. King taught vocational agriculture Mr. King adds, "The role of ag teacher FFA members, plotting next year's crop at Page County since 1980, before chang- is to coordinate the support —bringing production schedule, identifying trees, ing careers last year. He says there are human resources together." taking soil samples... several land labs in Virginia. But up The local Farm Bureau provides a And learning from the land. •••

October-November, 1984 15 —

An FFA Close-up WCP: Opening Doors To The Future

More than just a workshop on FFA and leadership, the Washington Conference Program is a crash course in people, with a special emphasis on friendship and the future.

By Michael Wilson

SOME very good things happened in "strangers," than with any classmates people live all over the country." Washington, D.C. this summer. back home. They will visit each other's Another former participant adds. "The You might immediately thinic it was a homes and they will keep in touch with conference doesn't give all people the

big speech on Capitol Hill, ora rousing each other for years, all because of this same kind of inspiration. But it does give political gathering. But the good things bond formed at WCP. everyone some degree of courage and mentioned here have little to do with this personal confidence that will carry them country's elected officials. New Goals in different directions beyond FFA."

I speak now of future leaders; leaders Perhaps an easier way to describe Eric says, "One new goal I set was to for the next decade, the next century, the WCP is through the eyes of 16-year-old become a leadership counselor at WCP.

next generation. Your generation. Eric Sherwood, of East Buchanan, Those people were so great to me, I want Here in the shadows of the city's Missouri. There were two WCP confer- to give back something to them, the same monuments to past heroes, 1,500 FFA ences held simultaneously this summer. way they are giving to the organization." members jumped off buses, trains and Eric attended one of them. Indeed, much of the success behind planes for a chance to become better "I had heard how good it was from the WCP can be directly credited to the leaders and citizens by attending the counselor staff, usually made up of past FFA's Washington Conference Program national officers and top-notch former "The conference doesn't give all (WCP). The conference is held each state FFA officers. Most are in their early inspira- summer in the nation's capital for all people the same kind of 20s, and relate to students well. WCP FFA members. tion. But it does give everyone Counselors are known for their speaking Some arrived fresh off the farm. A few abilifies, some degree of courage and per- and motivating and can develop traveled for days on a beat up old yellow a rapport with many students within just sonal confidence that will carry school bus. Some gave up the county fair. a few minutes. In most cases, those who attended the them in different directions be- Mark Herndon and John Pope, both conference were glad they did. More than vond FFA." former national officers, served as confer- a workshop on FFA and leadership, they ence directors this summer. "Because of said. It was a crash course in people, the nature of the program, the students with a special emphasis on friendship; an people who went last year," says Eric. "It are together from their very first session," open door to the future, with a chance to was everything I expected. Probably Mark says. "They're encouraged to get to develop leadership potential. more." know all the other participants. To understand what happens at the Eric says he worried that the conference "The counselor role is somewhat like a FFA's WCP conference each week for might be "boring like other workshops big brother or big sister role," he adds. eight humid, summery weeks, one must I've been to." Instead, he says, "The "One of the things that encouraged me

visualize certain things. Picture in your counselors made it so you could relate to when I came to the conference as a mind about 100 or more keyed-up FFA them and learn while you had a good student, was the way the counselors could members arriving all at one time at a time. We did a lot of neat things." talk to me on a personal basis. big-city hotel. The conference helped Eric modify his "I went in 1976," says Mark. "It's still It's Monday. Some are homesick, some goals. "At first, I had a goal to be a state one of the most significant experiences in

are shy. Nobody knows anybody. officer," he says. "Now I'm considering my life. I went at a time when I was really Picture the same band of teenagers working as hard as I can to become state questioning which way my life would go.

four days later, and the portrait changes president someday. Maybe even a national But when I saw other people whom I dramatically. officer." really respected and admired, pursuing In less than a week, you will see a A common goal of the conference is to goals and just having a blast living group (more often than not) bright and help vo-ag students learn more about that's what made the difference and bubbling with enthusiasm for FFA, their FFA, leadership and citizenship. But challenged me to set goals for myself." country, their agricultural background. while students learn basics of communica- (Continued on Page 50) Now, these students work together to tion, edquette, social skills, patriotism hold an FFA banquet with precision and and FFA activities, they also gain confi- pride; discover teamwork; challenge them- dence by meeting others. Right, two FFA members enjoy visiting selves to goals that, one week earlier, "The big thing for me was getting to on the steps of the Capitol in Washington, seemed only pipe dreams. know the people," says Eric. "I learned D.C. this summer. "The big thing for me

In a few short days, some have de- about how state and other chapters work, was getting to l

16 The .\ational FlTl RE FARMER Above, President Reagan receives Blue and Gold Award.

Capital Opportunities

By John Dutcher

ANEW crop of FFA state officers descended upon Washington, D.C., July 22-27 during the annual State Presidents' Conference, for intense training and motivation to help them meet their goals as state FFA leaders. "This week in Washington is not only an opportunity for each of us to grow personally, but also a chance for all of us, together, to tackle the challenges in education and agriculture," said National FFA President Ron Wineinger. Ron, along with fellow national officers Bill Caraway, Rhonda Scheulen, Chuck Duggar, Melody Lawson and Carol Irvine, helped plan and conduct the week's activities. The state officers learned more about national FFA operations and programs in informal sessions throughout the week. The group visited the National FFA Center to tour facilities, meet staff, and attend the premiere showing of "Be All You Can Dream," a new theme show audio- visual aimed at increasing vocational agriculture enrollment. At a White House Rose Garden visit. President Reagan praised FFA for giving a fine start to young people. "By cultivating traditional values, leadership skills and patriotism, the Future Farmers of America insure strength and vitality in our country," he said. The National FFA Officers presented the President with FFA's Blue and Gold Award after his speech. Conference participants also met Secretary of Agriculture John Block and visited many of the national monuments in the area. The conference was sponsored by Chevrolet. The Congressional Luncheon, where FFA leaders met elected officials from their home districts, was another conference highlight. Ron Wineinger told FFA members, U.S. Congressmen and Senators that "Vo-ag students/ FFA members are not the problem, but the solution, to instability in agriculture and unrest in vocational education. "It would seem vocational agriculture and the Future Farmers of America are at the crossroads of two sensitive issues," he said. He referred to unstable economic conditions for young farmers and agribusinessmen, as well as current attempts at educafional reforms in vocational agricuhure. He went on to cite examples of how vocational agriculture and FFA teach the same basic competencies vocational education opponents say the program lacks. He closed by asking elected officials in the crowd to take care making decisions effecting people caught between sensitive issues. Ron seemed to sum up the feelings of all the newly- elected FFA leaders when he told the luncheon audience that, "Never before has there been such hope for agricuhure in this nation or any nation." •••

October-November, 1984 17 Mark A. McKay John B. Kline Larry O. Nielson Steven B. Rogers

Central Region Star Farmer Larry O. Nielson, 21 Tulare, South Profile of the Stars Dakota SOE: His program started with 145 What's it take to be the best? Here's a close-up of the FFA feeder pigs. Today he owns a 800-acre diversified dryland and irrigated farm stars of 1984. Two of these FFA members will soon be where he raises corn, soybeans, barley, awarded FFA's highest honor: Star Farmer and Star wheat, alfalfa, beef and swine. He Agribusinessman of America. keeps his farm efficient by using a computerized farm record system, brother. He is also in partnership with constantly checking soil fertility FROM a field of nearly 700 American and Farmer degree candidates, eight FFA his brother in a custom spraying moisture in addition to maintaining an members have been selected Star Amer- operation. extensive health program. ican Farmers and Agribusinessmen of FFA: Chapter vice president. FFA: 1981 South Dakota FFA their respective regions. Each are just one Future Plans: Mark wants to gradually president. Won six state proficiency step away from being named to FFA's assume control of the family farm. awards and was a state highest honor. Star Farmer and Star extemporaneous pubhc speaking Eastern Region Star Farmer Agribusinessman of America. contest winner. John B. Kline, 21 Myerstown, Each star receives $1,000 from the Pennsylvania Future Plans: Wants to increase National FFA Foundation at the 57the efficiency in his operation and get more National FFA Convention, November SOE: John's program started with one involved in local community 8-10, in Kansas City, Missouri. The final Holstein heifer and four veal calves. He organizations. built heifers winners will receive an additional $ 1 ,000. has a herd of 59 through Southern Region Star Farmer The following is a brief summary of his SOE, in addition to raising 70 acres the stars' Supervised Occupational Ex- of corn and 35 acres of alfalfa. He uses Steven B. Rogers, 21 Speedwell, perience (SOE) programs, FFA activities embryo transfer to increase herd Tennessee and future plans. quality and a computer to analyze feed SOE: His program started with one rations. registered Holstein cow. At 17 he Western Region Star Farmer FFA: Chapter reporter and vice petitioned the courts to have his status Mark A. McKay, 20 St. Paul, Oregon president. 1982 Dairy Production changed to adult, so he could secure a loan from the Farmers Home SOE: Mark started with three acres of Proficiency award winner from the Administration to purchase his own cauliflower, and has added bush beans, eastern region. farm. Today he owns and operates a cauliflower, broccoli, radish seed and Future Plans: Wants to continue 133-head dairy farm and also raises wheat on 125 acres. He has a 50 improving the quality of registered percent share of the crops with his cows in his operation. (conlinued on Page 23)

Carolyn Sue Martin Michael Fuhler Rex Alan Wichert Michael Anderson

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18 The Sational FL TIRE FARMER -

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Future Plans: Wants to increase the Star Agribusinessman of the Eastern Future Plans: Wants to stay in the efficiency of his farming operation with Region family business as a sales representative computer technology. Mark Anderson, 21 East Berlin, and continue his education by Pennsylvania attending trade meetings and ••• Star Agribusinessman of the Southern SOE: He worked summers and after workshops. Region Carolyn Sue Martin, 21 Baxter, Tennessee

SOE: Carolyn built her program around work in her family's sawmill and three acres of tobacco. Today, she raises 12 acres of tobacco and works 36 hours per week in her family's sawmill. At the sawmill, her primary Ideal Outdoorsman's Knife... responsibility is sharpening sawblades. Carolyn is the first female in FFA ® history to be selected a regional star. Olive Drab BuckLite FFA: Chapter treasurer, current president of her collegiate FFA chapter. With Camo Sheath! finish Future Plans: Wants to work on Here's the knife you've dreamed of. Rugged durability com- her Agricultural Engineering degree at bined with extremely light weight. Three sizes to choose from, the Tennessee Technological each with an incomparable Buck blade, made of the finest University. After graduation, she plans quality high-carbon, high-chrome, rust-resistant steel, with to become a certified grader of lumber positive lock-open action. The olive drab thermoplastic handles and a partner in the family business. are the secret to the great strength and light weight—about half what you'd expect the knife to weigh. And the nylon sheath is Star Agribusinessman of the Central camouflage, making BuckLite the perfect accessory for every Region outdoorsman. See all three sizes at your favorite dealer; choose Michael Fuhler, 20 Trenton, Illinois the BuckLite that best fits your personal needs. SOE: He started as a bookkeeper in the Trenton Cooperative Equity BUCKLITE Exchange. Within three years, he Model 4220D (ACTUAL SIZE) moved up to office manager and BUCK fertilizer specialist. He developed a perpetual inventory system and helped KNIVES establish a computer record system at the cooperative. FFA: Chapter president, received the state foundation award in small grain production.

Future Plans: His goal is to someday become manager of the cooperative.

Star Agribusinessman of the Western Region Rex Alan Wichert, 20 Fairview, Oklahoma SOE: Rex started his program with a few head of livestock and 20 acres of crops. Today, he has 85 beef cattle and is farming 107 acres of wheat and grassland. He operates a lucrative custom hay-baling business on the side. He has worked as a part-time electrician, farm laborer and agricultural mechanic.

October-November, 1984 "

Left, Doug Rinker, former national FFA officer, now teaches vocational agriculture in his home town of Winchester, Virginia. Below, Mr. Rinker spends many Saturdays and late afternoons visiting students. Photo by Author

Hometown Boy Makes Good

For many people, success means the bright lights of a big city. Meet a By John Dutcher former National FFA President who found success a little closer to home.

works part-time for a local veterinarian. balance It's an old cliche! Hometown boy makes system. When one of us is good and returns to help the com- "Are you saving some of your pay- frustrated or overloaded, we'll talk about

munity. Had job offers in the big city, but checks for college?" Mr. Rinker asks it and find a way to work it out." turned them down. Brian. The formality of their classroom "I think I have something to pay back relationship tossed to the wind, it's hard An Ag Teacher First to this community. It's done an awful lot to tell they're teacher and student. You Each teacher spends only one class for me," says Doug Rinker, 25. can sense the respect two friends have for period per month on FFA work. "I was Mr. Rinker is one of those hometown each other. hired to be an ag teacher first and an boys who "made good." But there's "Let's face it, making lesson plans, FFA advisor second," Mr. Rinker says. nothing cliche'about what he's doing for working on reports, degree and award This means the bulk of FFA work and his community. applications is probably about the most SOE visits takes place after hours. At

He traveled across America in 1 979 as boring thing you could ever do. But times it can be a drain on a young National FFA President. He visited huge what's exciting is that your work involves teacher—especially one with a young agricultural corporations; he felt the lure students," says Mr. Rinker. family. Mr. Rinker and his wife, Katie, of their power. Yet he chose to return recently bought his home place and have home to Winchester, Virginia, for the started a family with Amanda Catherine, one opportunity he thought most impor- RINKER: "Let's face it, making a new-born daughter. tant teaching vocational agriculture at — lesson plans, working on reports, "A lot of people are scared off from James Wood High School. teaching ag because they know that the degree and award applications is "I was a national officer for a year," first few years they'll be working 60-70 says Mr. Rinker. "But I'm an individual probably about the most boring hours per week," says Mr. Rinker, who for the rest of my life. I'm doing something thing you could ever do. But has taught vo-ag for a year and a half. that I'm happy with." He admits the days are long and he's what's exciting is that Mr. Rinker's definition of happy in- your work not going to get rich off an ag teacher's cludes being able to travel over the hills involves students. salary. Yet, he says he's happy just to be and expanses of the Winchester area in working with students. his beige pickup for student SOE visits. "No one has a right to complain about You don't have to go on many Saturday With over 300 vo-ag students, the five- students," he says. "Students can be and after-school trips with him to see teacher department at James Wood, motivated and led to become something. why he teaches vo-ag. Knowing and headed by Mr. Hylton Clark, has its They're not the cause of our work, helping students seems to his be addiction. hands full. The program includes horti- they're the reason for it." Brian Gather, 1 7, is one of Mr. Rinker's culture, ag production, business and That simple philosophy may explain students. He seems to embody those machinery. why Mr. Rinker enjoys teaching ag qualities teachers ag might hope for in all Having four other teachers to share today. He's contributing to his com- their students: scholarship, career moti- responsibilities and act as a support munity by helping students prepare for vation, common sense and a willingness network is one of the best things about and plan their futures. For him, some to work. teaching at James Wood, says Mr. things in life have their own rewards. Brian is president of the chapter, and Rinker. "Sometimes we're torn because people hitting the books pretty hard to get into "It's really amazing to see the kind of expect so much from ag teachers, says the pre-vet Virginia program at Tech attitude they (the other teachers) have," Mr. Rinker. "That's the challenging part. (Mr. Rinker's alma mater). He also he says. "It's almost like a check and It's a challenge I like." •••

24 The .\ational FVTVRE FARMER ji

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They've got a fuller fit. Higher rise. Extra room in the seat and thigh. And -~.,\Afuv-T?;;'^y^'^'^^. common sense features like flat rivets, higher hip pockets, room in the leg for a boot, and room between the belt loops for the biggest buckle you can find. Mostly, of course, there's plenty of room for you. After all. Life provides a man with tight situations aplenty. Best his pants don't do the same.

QUALITY NEVER GOES

BIRD in Hand is a tiny town in love the area. in Hand Market, a veritable tourist Lancaster County, the heart of Penn- But not everyone who tries their hand shopping center. The market has just sylvania's Amish country. It's surrounded at the area's tourist business is Amish. about everything; plants, fresh baked with hills, farmland and Amish people Merv Keagy, 19, of Washington Bo- goods, meats, cheese, crafts, spices and producing crops and livestock in plain, ro, Pennsylvania, has expanded his preserves —all with a uniquely Amish old-fashioned ways. family's produce business —thanks to flavor. The Amish are renown for their home- tourism, and a solid vocational agricul- Before Merv moved in, the market grown produce, home-baked goods and ture background. lacked a good produce stand, one that country crafts. It's easy to believe every- In May, Merv, a partner with his could supply the kind of homegrown thing is fresh off the farm, hot out of the parents in Keagy Produce, opened a produce visitors expected. oven and made by hand. Vacationers new fruit and vegetable stand at the Bird "People who come here on trips want

Above, Merv Keagy, 19, of Washington Boro, Pennsylvania, inspects an acre of peppers his family raises to supply their produce business. Top right, bright red radishes add color to an otherwise green display of produce. Bottom right, Merv cuts and wraps watermelons for his customers. —

Profit By John Dutcher

to take something back from Lancaster the business ladder. He started out as a customer a good selection by displaying County," says Merv. "If tourists live in salesclerk, selling produce and working large quantities of each item. Florida, they don't come up here to buy in the family's fields, which supply much Merv likes to answer his customers' Florida tomatoes." of their stock. Today, he manages questions about what is in season, how Merv has mastered the art of growing, Keagy's Bird in Hand produce stand long it it will stay in season and where buying and marketing fresh local pro- proof positive that Merv has the skills fruits and vegetables are grown. "You've duce. He also travels to wholesale termi- necessary to help run his own business. got to know produce to succeed in this nals in Philadelphia and Baltimore to Merv says he's learned a lot from business," he says. buy out-of-season fruits and vegetables, developing a new market. In the stand's Homegrown his a mouth- early days, he paid close attention to his which help make stand Since "homegrown" is the catchword customers out they watering sight. The bright red radishes and found what for profit in Lancaster County, the liked disliked. also learned with dewey green tops on his stand are and He how Keagys raise as much of their own control inventory to and cash flow. produce as possible. They grow 25 acres KEAGY: "People who come As a result, the Bird in Hand stand is of vegetables, mostly tomatoes, sweet now one of the businesses' biggest here on trips want to take corn, peppers, beans, zucchini squash moneymakers. an average Saturday On and cantaloupes, all planted in stag- Lancaster something backfrom during tourist season, the stand takes in gered rotation to assure a steady supply around partly because Merv's County. If tourists live in $1,200, for the business. 10-20 retail. prices are percent below Jet Star tomatoes are clearly Merv's Florida, they don't come here to Pretty Means Profit pride and joy. The Jet Star has come to buy Florida tomatoes." be known as the "Washington Boro" "Most of our customers are used to tomato due to its popularity in the area. trucked in from Ohio. The giant canta- seeing produce in cellophane bags," says Merv's five-acre tomato crop doesn't loupes hail from South Carolina. Merv. Because his produce is sold un- sound like much until you consider it "I learned everything I know about wrapped, much care must be taken in its will net nearly $14,000 in over-the- produce from my dad," says Merv. His preparation. counter sales this year. Supervised Occupational Experience "There are so many things you must White sweet corn is another impor- program in the Penn-Manor FFA chap- do to catch the consumer's eye," he says. tant crop for Merv. This season marks ter encouraged him to become more Celery bottoms are cut to a point, then his first attempt to sell the ten-acre crop involved in the business and work toward washed, forming a neat bunch for the entirely through the family's produce its expansion. customer. Most items on the stand go stands. "Tomatoes and sweet corn pay In high school, Merv tailored his through equally time-consuming rituals the bills," he says. "They're what we to business and agriculture. He to be made as attractive as possible. studies count on." took all the accounting and bookkeeping Once the fruits and vegetables are Merv says most tourists have never offered and developed "a good head for prepared for sale, Merv pays close atten- seen white sweet corn, so next year he'll figures," says FFA Advisor August tion to their placement on the counter. plant a few acres of yellow corn to see Birchler. Red radishes are strategically located how it sells. Merv admits it probably Merv's head for figures helped him between green lettuce and onions to won't move too well at the other stands, take more responsibility as he climbed break up the colors. He also gives the on which have fewer tourists, but as he says: "You've got to give customers what they want." That kind of attitude helped earn Below, a customer looks over Merv's offering of fresh fruit. Merv the state FFA Agricultural Sales and Service proficiency award sponsored by Allis-Chalmers Corporation. Merv has plans beyond the next tourist season. He wants to expand the family operation and continue establishing good credit as a partner in the business. But for Merv, the real measure of success will always be in satisfying his customers. "You must admit, nowhere else but Lancaster County do you see produce that looks as good as this," said one little old lady to a fellow tourist. Merv knows his customers have big expectations of his produce. It's a business where there is no tomorrow for a slightly wilted head of lettuce—or a businessman who doesn't know his market. ••• 27 October-November, 19S4 #>' "^^

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Photos By Author Above, Tom and Bart Marshall at the Marshall's Suffolk sheep farm In Michigan.

Question: What do FFA, Suffolk sheep and boogie- woogie ragtime piano have in common? Answer: IVIeet the Marshalls, of Allen, Michigan, a most unique—and successful—farm family.

By Michael Wilson

had to admit, this was no ordinary FFA interview. When it comes to raising sheep, though, the Marshalls are I Here I was, sitting in the comfortable rec room of A. all business. Over the last five to ten years, the family has LeJean and Jane Marshall. These fine folks not only fed me carried out a plan to establish a national reputation as top- and gave me a warm place to stay; now they were entertaining notch registered breeders. They've accomplished their goal me. Before me were the Marshall's three sons: Dave, 14, on through superior genetics: good breeding practices combined saxophone, Bart, 19, on drums, and 2 1-year-old Tom, tearing with experimental uses of embryo transfer and artificial up the keyboards on ragtime piano. insemination. The results: sheep with more heighth, length

I was treated to a fine performance. I concluded that the and all-around better breed characteristics. brothers' hearty enthusiasm for music echoed the entire Today, the family operates one of the largest registered family's zeal for the farm's main enterprise: producing and Suffolk sheep farms in the country. "We're the only full-time marketing registered Suffolk sheep. registered breeders in Michingan who make our income The Marshalls hve on a neatly manicured farm outside of solely off of breeding and selling Suffolks," explains Tom. tiny Allen, Michigan. Mr. and Mrs. Marshall take pride in The Marshall flock is made up of 650 breeding ewes, 150 their sons' musical and theatrical talents (Tom has performed yearling ewes and 50 yearling rams. The family crops 650 at the National FFA Talent show, and the family "trio" has acres in forward-contracted corn, and oats and alfalfa. performed in several places). Mr. Marshall is recognized internationally for his expertise

28 The National FVTVRE FARMER in the sheep business. At home he receives phone calls from "Four years ago a 36-inch tall ram was considered big," he fellow sheep breeders asking his advice on veterinarian says. "Now, we're looking at 39 or 40-inch rams." problems. When he is on the road promoting the Marshall Tom explains, "It's all because of the way the Suffolk is

flock, Tom, Bart and Dave take care of the farm. bred. The lambs have 'hybrid vigor.' Their rate of gain is Tom and Bart are partly responsible for the family's unsurpassed." involvement in the sheep industry today. Mr. Marshall had Excellence Through Genetics been in the sheep business 40 years ago before selling his flock The Marshalls are not afraid to experiment. Bart and Tom to Michigan State University. He switched to dairy, gradually say they are anxious to use new genetic techniques. "It's the building a 375-cow milking enterprise by the early 70s. But wave of the future," says Bart. "It's the one thing the cattle when the boys came along and showed an interest in sheep, and pork industry have seen progress in, but not in sheep. It's Mr. Marshall began selling cows. relatively unexplored, because no one has come up with any "The last few years, we've been converting everything from decent conception rates." cows to sheep on this farm," says Tom. "We haven't yet "With embryo transfer, you can get the maximum produc- figured out how to use the milking parlor, but that's next!" tion out of a ewe that could normally only produce one or two lambs per season," says Tom. Tom is learning more about genetics as he enters his second year at Ridgetown College of "The last few years, we've been converting Agricultural Technology, in Canada. With Bart doing double-duty as an MSU freshman this everythingfrom cows to sheep on farm. We and state FFA president, the Marshalls are spread out pretty haven't yet figured out how to use the milking thin. Even so, the family still remains strong. "One of the reasons I think Tom and Bart are so successful parlor, but that's next!" is that their whole sheep business is really a family affair," says Charles Snyder, the brothers' FFA advisor from Quincy, Michigan. "They've been involved in FFA, music and plays One encouraging event in the family's re-entry to the at school, and whenever there is an activity all the grand- business happened in 1978. The Marshalls decided to attend parents, aunts, uncles will attend also." the prestigious "Midwest Stud Ram Sale" in Sedalia, Missouri, "Before we were in vo-ag, we were just a pair of kids showing livestock," says Tom. "We got into FFA and Mr. Snyder took us around and got us into leadership activities. He showed us how to relate to the public." Mr. Snyder, gesturing toward 14-year-old Dave, smiles. "We're not finished yet, either," he says. •••

Above, Bart Marshall checks in with his dad LeJean, before heading off for an FFA function as state president.

an event which annually attracts big-name sheep breeders. It was their first showing. "When we pulled up, we saw all these big-time breeders with their long trailers," says Tom. "Here we were, pulling up Above, Tom and Bart spend hours clipping, carding and in this little brown pickup truck. It was exciting." washing sheep for shows and sales. Below, the two brothers Little did they know how exciting the sale would actually show off one of the Marshall's prize rams. be. The Marshalls ended up selling a ewe for $37,000—at the time, the world-record for a registered Suffolk ewe. Establishing Markets Through annual sales, promotions and consignments, the Marshall family has determined the best ways to sell their sheep. "We managed to establish a market in Canada over the last five years," says Bart. "We hold a club lamb sale and

we sell 1 50 bred ewes at an annual Christmas sale that has been going on six years. Last year we averaged almost $600 per ewe." Tom adds, "Every year, our average price has gone up. The Canadian market helped us a lot. They have been trying to get bigger Suffolks with better breed characteristics." Mr. Marshall says the stiff competition among Suffolk breeders makes it tough to keep up with ever-changing breed standards.

October-November, 1984 look at the way the economy is today and how tight farmers have to be, with Computer the right software a farmer can account for every penny." Computer Curiosity Whiz i4 Many of the vo-ag students said their interest in computers grew from a spark FFA's first "Computers in Agriculture" of curiosity. Dean Tobey, of Corunna, award winner is announced at a national Michigan, says, "After I took a com-

computer seminar for Future Farmers puter class I found I liked it quite a bit. Now I've decided that's what I'm going "-"- — " i to study in college." Dean, who prefers computer pro- Gingerich, of the Northwestern, KEVIN gramming, says those interested in com- Indiana, FFA chapter, was named puters need imagination and an urge to the FFA's first winner of the new Com- I try new things. "And patience, when puters in Agriculture award. things don't go right," he smiles. The announcement came during a Above, National FFA Advisor Larry Case, Kevin Gingerich says, "I hadn't been national Computers in Agriculture semi- left, and Richard Weening, president of interested in computers too much in nar, held August 14-18 in Washington, AgriData Resources, Inc., right, present high school. But my ag teacher invited D.C. The conference was sponsored by Kevin Gingerich, of Kokomo, Indiana, me to attend a computer class he AgriData Resources, Inc., as a special witfi first place in FFA's new Computers was teaching when I was a junior. Before i project of the National FFA Foundation. in Agriculture award. knew it, I was writing programs. By the During the week, 37 state-winning end of the year 1 was his assistant." FFA members demonstrated their ag Behne, Sherburn, Minnesota; Barry Kevin recently entered college, computer skills before a panel of six Hines, Philpot, Kentucky; and Lonnie majoring in Computer Science. "After I education and industry experts during Webb, of Lincoln, Arkansas. graduate, I would like to apply my the week. Students were judged on their Dr. Blannie Bowen, professor at computer skills and my agricultural ability to adapt their SOE program to Mississippi State University, acted as a background to work with a company computer technology, ability to identify judge for the contest. He says he was that develops software to help farmers." areas of agriculture and agribusiness impressed with the applications. which could benefit from computers, "Most students were making applica- Below, the and how to apply computer knowledge tion of data bases, electronic spreadsheets FFA members at seminar gained "hands on" experience at different to solve problems in management. and writing programs on how to keep types of computers. In all, over 150 FFA members, vo-ag better records," says Dr. Bowen.

instructors, educators and computer in- "The one thing I was most impressed dustry leaders attended or made presen- with was how many of these FFA tations on computer applications in members were actually developing skills agriculture. that would help their vo-ag teacher Kevin topped all other computer ex- manage the vo-ag program, such as perts with a program on grain marketing. computerized FFA membership rosters, "It allows farmers in my area to find the or shop inventories," he says. most economical way to market grain," In true FFA form, students had a says Kevin. His program allows producers chance to get "hands on" experience by to consider factors like grain moisture, talking with experts and testing computers test weight and discount price schedules from Texas Instruments, Radio Shack from local grain outlets. "Net returns are and Apple Computer. calculated by using all factors," he says, Each student came with different ex- "and a farmer can find out exactly where periences with computers. AH agreed to sell that particular grain for the most there are advantages to using computers money." in agriculture. Rounding out the top five were Debra "It helps make farmers more efficient," Haack, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin; Dotty says Barry Hines, of Kentucky. "You

Computerizing Tiie Classroom

FFA Steps Into The Electronic World

VOCATIONAL agriculture and the FFA "modules," supported by up-to-the- Vo-ag departments which use the took a giant step into the electronic minute agricultural business and mar- system can now order FFA materials world with the September start of the keting information. and supplies electronically from the first national "on-line" computer network National FFA Supply Service. Users are for agriculture classrooms. In addition, the National FFA Or- able to communicate with each other The "Ag Ed Network," a partnership ganization provides FFA information, through an "Idea Exchange," much like project of the FFA and AgriData such as reference materials and hand- a computerized bulletin board. Resources, Inc., is a computer database books, and an FFA news service which aimed specifically at high school and provides announcements on upcoming AgriData Resources, Inc. also operates junior colleges teaching vocational agri- events and programs, award winners AgriData Network, a national electronic culture. The network provides vo-ag and human interest stories, from local, business information, communications instructors and students with learning state and national levels. (Continued on Page 50)

30 The.\ationalFlTLR£ FARMER YOU WIND UP WISHING IT ONE WEEKENDA MONTH.

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for a soun

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How does the MoorMan Representative help?

Through personal on-farm counsel- methods and goals for the livestock ing with livestock producers, the enterprise or enterprises. MoorMan Representative helps As a result, our representative is fit the pieces together to help the able to recommend specific products fanner or rancher get top perfor- and feeding programs to fiU the mance, low total feed costs and owner's needs. mclximum profits. Each MoorMan Representative By calling direct, our representa- has reference materials on various tive can see the Uvestock, equipment classes of Uvestock, detailed feeding and facilities, find out what native and management programs and feedstuffs are available, determine educational fUms—and is ready and the owner's preferred feeding willing to show them to you. Three ways the Moorman Manufacturing Company encourages young people interested in agriculture: Scl>olarsl>ip in Agriculture

Since 1958, MoorMan's contributions Also since 1958, MoorMan's Since 1959, MoorMan's has sponsored have helped honor outstanding FFA contributions have helped honor scholarships at agricultural colleges. members at the chapter, state, outstanding 4-H Club members at all They're being awarded this year to regional and national levels. levels—county, state and national. students at 29 Land-Grant universities. WHEREWILLYOU BE IN THEIWEmY-FIRSTCEimJRY?

ijlfPUpp

1984-85 FFA Awards fif Programs Special Insert

Funded by sponsors through

the national FFA Foundatioa Inc. Be All That You Can Dream ...

In about fifteen years we will enter the twenty-first century. What a milestone!

And you will be there, working away at your life, doing a job you're proud of. You are history in the making!

Stop and think for a minute. Do you know what you want to do in the twenty- first century?

There is one career path you can choose which assures your place in the next century, because it is based on a simple fact; people will eat.

The industry? Agriculture. The opportunity? Unlimited!

The next century is still years in the future. But you have a chance today to get some hands-on experience at earning a living, making decisions and being a leader. You have the chance today to challenge yourself and test your potential.

You can do all this and more by getting involved in vocational agriculture and FFA.

Vocational agriculture offers students hands-on learning through Supervised Occupational Experience (SOE) programs. SOE gives work experience and job skills— skills that tomorrow's agriculture is counting on.

FFA awards and programs motivate and encourage you to greater achievements.

You can earn pins for your jacket, trophies, plaques, advanced degrees and cash awards. Through FFA you can travel, make new friends and have some fun. All these opportunities help build confidence in your abilities and yourself.

This special insert will show you how to get involved. By starting today, your future can and will be all that you can dream! FFA Awards and Programs

Agriculture has changed dramatically since

the rrA was founded in 1928. So have rrA awards and programs.

Today, thousands of members participate in

FFA contests at the local, state and national lev-

els, nearly all members are involved in some phase of the FFA degree program. Some apply the latest technology to their SOE programs.

Such agricultural trends are mirrored in new FFA proficiency award areas.

These changes reflect a constant need to

meet new demands in the agriculture industry.

FFA programs are carried out to teach skills the

agricultural marketplace demands of its future workers, managers and professionals. That's you!

Whatever your talent, whatever your back-

ground, your first goal is to get involved in one or more of the following awards, contests or programs.

Through the FFA you can establish who you are. You can begin to shape the twenty-first cen-

tury!

If your Chapter Resource System file is not yet available, refer to the Official FFA Manual or new

Student Handbook for more information. If information on a particular award or program is not available, have your advisor order the free materials through the Official FFA Catalog. Cereal Grain Production Floriculture Individual Awards and Sponsored by: Du Font Agricultural Chemicals Sponsored by: The Lerio Corporation • Cereal grain crops such as wheat, rye and nursery Supplies, Inc. Paul Ecke Poinsettia Ranch Programs rice. The FFA Foundation General Fund Daily Production • Flowers, foliage and related plant materials Proficiency Awards Sponsored by: AVCO flew Idea for ornamental purposes, arranging and pack- The De Laval Agricultural Division of aging products. Alfa-Laval, Inc. The proficiency award program challenges American Breeders Service Production you to do what American agriculture has always Forage Crop • Dairy cattle of all breeds and milk products. Sponsored by: Hesston Corporation done so well—produce and manage efficiently. Diversified Crop Production FFA Foundation General Fund If you win a proficiency award at the chapter Sponsored by: Cargill, Incorporated • Alfalfa, clover, bromegrass, com and grass level, you'll receive a special certificate and • Two or more types of crops such as feed silages, all sorghum except grain and other award pin for your FFA jacket, plus a chance to grain, oil, forage, cereal or fiber. grain forages. advance to district, section or sub-regional levels of competition. State award winners receive Diversified Livestock Production Forest Management Sponsored by: Weyerhaeuser Company Foundation a plaque, cash award and a chance to go on to Sponsored by: A. 0. Smith Harvestore Products, Incorporated FFA Foundation General Fund regional and national levels. Winning a national Wayne Feeds Division/Continental • Forestry practices that conserve and increase proficiency award includes an all-expense-paid Grain Company productivity and economic value of forestland travel seminar to Europe with other FFA mem- • Two or more livestock enterprises such as such as thinning, pruning, weeding, planting, bers, in addition to a cash award and plaque beef, sheep, swine, dairy or horses. insect/disease control and harvesting; seasonal given at the national FFA Convention. Feed Grain Production tree farming. *Awards are given based on good management, Sponsored by: Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. Fruit and/or Vegetable Production safety, finance, animal health and nutrition and • Feed grains such as bariey, millet, buck- Sponsored by: Briggs 6f Stratton Corporation labor practices. Accurate records are essential wheat, oats, corn and grain sorghum. Foundatloa Incorporated for success in the proficiency award program. Fiber Crop Production • Edible beans, all canned vegetables, pota- *For more information on the following profi- Sponsored by: Ttie Shell Companies Foundatloa toes and yams, stone, pome and citrus fruits, ciency awards, refer to the Agricultural Profi- Incorporated nuts and common garden vegetables. ciency Handbook and the proficiency award ap- Valmont Industries, Incorporated plications (divider #1.00 in the Chapter • Fiber crops such as cotton, sisal and hemp. Resource System File).

Agricultural Electrification Sponsored by: national Food and Energy Council, Incorporated Klein Tools, Incorporated FFA Foundation General Fund • Wiring, energy management, sales and service of agricultural power units or electric mo- tors. Agricultural Mechanics PROFKIENCYAV^ARDM^..^ . Sponsored by: International Harvester Company • Selection, repair and maintenance of agricultural equipment; design and construction of agricultural equipment structures. Agricultural Processing Sponsored by: FFA Foundation General Fund • Assembling, transporting, grading, inspect- ing, processing, fabricating, mixing manufacturing and marketing food and non-food agricultural products.

Agricultural Sales and/or Service Sponsored by: Allls-Chalmers Corporation

• Work in feed, seed, fertilizer, agricultural chemicals, machinery and other farm supply stores, custom work, equipment operation and maintenance, agricultural management and finance services, animal breeding, horse shoeing and pet services. Beef Production

Sponsored by: Masco Division/International, Incorporated Sperry Hew Holland

• Cow-calf and finishing operations for all beef breeds. Home and/or Fannstead Improvement Sponsored by: Upjoha TUCO, Asgrow, Cobb, and O's Gold, Agricultural Division of the Upjohn Company • Improving home or farmstead to provide a

more desirable place to live and work. Horse Proficiency Sponsored by; American Quarter Horse Association

• Production or management of horses of all breeds. Nurseiy Operations Sponsored by; Weyerhaeuser Company Foundation • Turf, plants, shrubs and trees for transplant- ing or propagation.

Oil Crop Production Sponsored by; The Shell Companies Toundatioa Incorporated Ring Around Products, Incorporated

• Oil crops such as flax, mustard, rape, castor beans, sunflowers, peanuts, safflower and soybeans. Outdoor Recreation Sponsored by; FPA Foundation General Fund • Building vacation cabins, camplng/picnic

areas, sports fields, riding stables and developing hunting preserves, water/winter sports areas, vacation farms or guest ranches.

Placement in Agricultural Production

Sponsored on the national level by:

Executive Sponsors of the rfatlonal FFA Foundation national Stars Over America Audio-Visual

Sponsored by: Levi Strauss & Company • A Star Qreenhand, Chapter Farmer and Agri- businessman are selected annually at the chapter level for excellence in SOE programs, leadership and FFA involvement. These award winners are eligible to advance to sectional, district or regional competition within the state.

• Your state selects a Star Farmer and Star

Agribusinessman from State Farmer degree recipients. These FFA members are selected based on achievement in FFA and their SOE programs in agribusiness and production agriculture.

• Stars at the regional and national levels are selected from American Farmer degree recipients from across the nation. The Star Farmer and Star Agribusinessman of America receive a $2,000 check and an opportunity to represent FFA at many vocational agriculture functions.

• For more information about the FFA Stars

Program check the appropriate flies in the

Chapter Resource System File (dividers #1.05- 1.08).

FFA Achievement Award Computers in Agriculture Sponsored by: Successful Farmmg Sponsored by: AgriData Resources, Inc.

• You and your advisor make up the require- • Recognizes FFA members who have been in- ments for this award. novative in using computer technology in agri-

• You can be recognized for agricultural skills, cultural production and agribusiness manage- leadership development, career understanding ment. or safety practices. • Chapters select a member who shows the

• You'll receive a special certificate from the most productive use of computers in his or her national FFA Foundation for participating in this SOE program. The winner receives a certificate program. and goes on to compete at the state level. State winners receive a certificate. • For more information, refer to the Achieve- ment Award Program Handbook (divider #1.01 • Judging is based on your ability to identify in the Chapter Resource System File). areas of agriculture which will benefit from computer technology, select software most ap- plicable to your chapter and SOE program, and/

or how a computer is used to make management decisions.

• For more infonnatlon refer to the Computers

in Agriculture program booklet (divider #1.03

In the Chapter Resource System File). national FFA Band, Chorus International Programs and Talent • Work Experience Abroad (WEA) programs are Sponsored by: available for FFA members and FFA alumni to Band: Carnation Company just Chorus: Hallmark Cards, Incorporated about everywhere in the world. Leave home FFA foundation General Fund for three, six or twelve months and get fantastic Talent: FFA Foundation Qeneral Fund work experience living with farm families while Band, chorus and talent programs encourage working in an agricultural area that interests

FFA members to let their talents shine. If you you. have special abilities, you can be an important • Scholarships are available in many states to asset to many FFA functions at the local, state help cover travel expenses. These are given and national levels. through grants from the U.S. Information • Most state FFA associations have band, cho- Agency and national FFA Foundation sponsors. rus and talent groups entertain at conventions. These scholarships are sponsored by the follow- Your advisor can give you application forms for ing companies: these activities. Iowa Corn Promotion Board Jerome Foundation • You can perform your talent on stage at the M5D AQVET Division, Merck fif Co., Inc. national FFA Convention. Ask your advisor to Mobay Chemical Corporation contact your state FFA office for an application. l^issan USA (Datsun) Return it with an audition tape for band and Oregon Seed Trade Association chorus, national talent acts audition in Kansas Pioneer Hi-Bred International Inc./Central Division City prior to the national FFA Convention. Pioneer Hi-Bred international, Inc./Eastem Division Pioneer Hi-Bred International Inc.AVisconsin Division

K. T. Wiedemann Foundation, Incorporated Yanmar Diesel America Corporation

• Have your advisor contact your state FFA office for more information on scholarships in

your state. Applications are due several months prior to de- parture dates, so apply early.

• Another way to experience international agri-

culture is to host an international work experience participant from another country.

• For more information on international programs, refer to the WEA international Program Handbook and WEA application (divider #2.08

in the Chapter Resource System File). first Interstate Bank of California First Mississippi Corporation Foundation Qeorgia Power Company Qerber Baby Foods Fund tiarder Silo Company Incorporated

Idaho First national Bank Idaho Wheat Commission

Illinois Farmers Union

Illinois Pork Producers Association Inland Container Corporation Foundation McCurdy Seed Company Minnesota Wheat Research & Promotion Council Mississippi Fami Bureau Mutual Insurance Company national Oats Company Incorporated nissan USA (Datsun) The Ohio Farmers Grain and Supply Association Oregon Wheat Commission Pacific Seedsmen's Association Pennsylvania Pork Producers Council Pennsylvania Rural Electric Association

Prairie Farms Dairy, Incorporated Professional Products Incorporated South Dakota Farmers Union South Dakota Wheat Commission Texas Farmers Union United States Sugar Corporation

Virginia, Maryland S; Delaware Association of Electric Cooperatives Wells Fargo Bank Western Seedsmen's Association Wyoming Wheat Commission

• Have your FFA advisor contact the state FFA office for more information on these scholar-

ships. Applications are due June 1 each year. For more information on the conference, refer to the Washington Conference Program Applica-

Washington Conference tion (divider #2. 1 1 in the Chapter Resource Program System File).

The Washington Conference Program (WCP) gives FFA members leadership skills through a series of personal development workshops held in Washington, D.C. each summer.

• Special emphasis is placed on obtaining new/ ideas for chapter action. Participants develop a greater appreciation of our nation's heritage by visiting Mt. Vernon, Arlington National Ceme- tery, historical monuments and congressmen on Capitol Hill.

• Scholarships are available in selected states through the national FFA Foundation. Sponsors of these scholarships are: AQR] Industries

American Beauty Macaroni Company/Division of the Fillsbury Company Beacon Feed Service Chevron U.S.A. Incorporated Chief Industries, Incorporated/Agricultural Division Colorado national Bank of Denver The Commonwealth riational Bank Contel Service Corporation

Creswell, Munsell, Fultz & Zirbel, Incorporated Farm Credit Services National FFA Scholarship Chapter Awards and • Your chapter can earn a plaque at the state Program level and on the national level for teams which Programs place Gold, Silver or Bronze. Team members ranked as top individuals will receive a medal • Scholarships for members wishing to enroll FFA also means teamwork. The following pro- on the national level. The top five individuals in a two-year vocational/technical school, junior grams give your chapter an opportunity to par- will receive trophies. The top chapter team re- college or four-year university majoring in agri- ticipate and be recognized for achievement. ceives a national trophy. culture. These are available from $500 to "full- • For more information on FFA contests, refer ride" scholarships, made possible by sponsors to the Rules and Regulations for national Con- through the national FFA Foundation. These FFA Contests tests (Bulletin #4) or divider #1.09 in the sponsors are: Chapter Resource System File. T5C Farm, Home and Auto Stores FFA contests give you a chance to use skills Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity learned in vocational agriculture. Although

American Morgan Horse Institute, Inc. other contests are offered in certain parts of the Blount Foundation country, the following are offered in most states Church & Dwight Company, Inc. and at the national level. Dunavant Enterprises, Incorporated

Esmark, Inc. Foundation/Swift/Hunt-Wesson Food, Inc. Firestone Agricultural Mechanics Louis Dreyfus Corporation

A. 0, Smith Harvestore, Inc. (Harold Davis Memorial)

Farmland Industries, Inc. (Ellen Mlelsen Cooperative Scholarship Fund) Norfolk Southern Corporation

Purina Field 'f\ Farm "Agri-Future" Santa Fe Industries, Incorporated Who's Who Among American High School Students

• For more information and an application, re-

fer to divider #1.11 In the Chapter Resource

System File. Agricultural Mechanics Floriculture Meats Sponsored by: Firestone Trust Fund Sponsored by; FFA Foundation General Fund Sponsored by: Geo. A. Hormel & Company Corporation • Activities include sl^ll activities, written exam- • Activities include judging and identifying fior- Oscar Mayer Foods FFA Foundation General Fund inations and problem-solving in agriculture iculture products. You are given a written exam- • Activities include identifying wholesale and power, machinery, structures, electrification, ination on growing media, plant disorders and retail cuts of meat and judging beef, pork and construction, and soil and water practices. anatomy. You are evaluated on your ability to lamb carcasses. You must show ability to select Daily make fioral arrangements, pot chrysanthemum and identify highest quality carcasses, whole- Sponsored by: Associated Milk Producers, cuttings and take orders over the phone. Incorporated sale and retail cuts of meat. Forestiy • Activities include placing dairy cattle based Nurseiy/Landscape Sponsored by: Homelite Division of Textron, Inc. on type and linear classification and giving oral Sponsored by: Kubota Tractor Corporation Hammermill Paper Company American Association of nurserymen reasons. You must also place a class of four Temple-Eastex Incorporated Wholesale nursery Growers of America pedigree information. based on • Activities include testing ability to develop a Inc. Daily Foods forest products and wood management and FFA Foundation General Fund Sponsored by: Fatz Company marketing plan. You must take a forestry inven- • Activities include judging landscapes, identi- Mid-America Dairymea Incorporated tory, identify forest disorders and conduct silvi- fying nursery products and a practicum involv- • Activities include visual and taste testing of cultural practices. ing a landscape plan. Your knowledge of plant milk and cheese. Milk samples are evaluated Livestock anatomy, growing media is tested. You must with the California Mastitis Test. You are tested Sponsored by: Raiston Purina Company show ability to diagnose plant disorders. on principles of merchandising dairy foods. • Activities include placing classes of market Poultiy Farm Business Management and breeding beef, sheep and swine and giving Sponsored by: Hubbard Farms, Incorporated Sponsored by: John Deere Foundation oral reasons. You must show ability to select Victor F. Weaver Incorporated • Activities include testing your ability to apply breeding livestock by evaluating production rec- • Activities include evaluating poultry products. economic principles in analyzing farm busi- ords. You must also take a written exam to test your nesses. You must analyze and complete a total knowledge of management practices. farm budget and apply economic principles to solve farm problems. National Chapter Award Building Our American Food For America Program Communities—Phase One Sponsored by: Mobay Chemical Corporation Food For America helps FFA members tell agri- Sponsored by: TFA foundation General Fund and Two culture's story to grade school children across Sponsored by: R. J. Reynolds Industries, • How good is your chapter? This award rates America. incorporated your FFA chapter's performance by evaluating • Your chapter forms a Food For America Com- its completed program of activities. • Building Our American Communities (BOAC) mittee and contacts local elementary schools to • The award encourages teamwork and devel- encourages members to become Involved in lo- set up tours of area farms, greenhouses and ops leadership in you and your fellow members. cal community development activities. BOAC agribusinesses. recognizes chapters and Individuals for achieve- • Your chapter may be recognized as a Supe- • A Food For America kit is available (divider ments in community development. rior Chapter in your state and receive a spur for #2.07 in the Chapter Resource System File). the chapter's state plaque. Ten percent of the • FFA chapters join with other community chapters which receive this rating go on to na- groups and leaders to identify needs and take

tional competition. Mere they are ranked action. Your chapter BOAC committee works to

Bronze, Silver or Gold FFA Chapters and recog- solicit and coordinate community support.

nized before thousands of FFA members at the • Once a community project is complete, your national FFA Convention. A spur is provided for chapter submits an application to the state FFA

the chapter's national plaque. office. The state winning chapter competes at • To compete your chapter must complete the regional and national levels.

Form I & II of the national Chapter Award Appli- • Phase Two recognizes individuals who are cation. A national Chapter Award Handbook is most resourceful in the development and execu- also available (divider #1.10 in the Chapter Re- tion of the BOAC program. State winners and source System File). advisors participate in an all-expense-paid national FFA Conference on Community Develop-

ment In Washington, D.C. each September.

• For more information on BOAC refer to the BOAC Committee Handbook and the BOAC Chapter Award Application (divider #1.02 in the

Chapter Resource System File). i^Ka

Offlcial FFA Calendar Program • Chapters promote FFA and make money by donating and selling Official FFA Calendars. Four styles of calendars are available: Home & Office, Desk Poster and Wallet.

• FFA Calendar materials are mailed to your Ai^ chapter in August. The Official FFA Catalog also has complete details and order forms.

• For more information on the calendar pro-

gram, consult the Chapter Resource System File (divider #2.02).

The National FFA Alumni Association

• FFA Alumni support the local vocational agriculture program and FFA chapter. They help coach judging teams, assist with fund-raising activities and get involved with school and gov-

ernmental affairs.

• Over 23,000 people are members of the Na- tional FFA Alumni Association. There are ap-

proximately 750 local alumni affiliates throughout the nation.

• For information on how to organize an FFA Alumni Affiliate, refer to the FFA Alumni Hand-

book (divider #2.01 in the Chapter Resource National FFA Week System File). FFA Week Material Design and Development Sponsored by: Estech, inc. Annual Theme Show National FFA Sponsored by: The Wrangler Brand Public Service Announcements Convention Sponsored by: Deere & Company • The l^ational FFA Convention held in Kansas FFA Week is your chapter's chance to explain City each year is the pinnacle of success and ex- and promote vocational agriculture and FFA. citement for many FFA members, nearly 23,000 • Your chapter can be recognized for its in- members and guests attend the convention to volvement in FFA Week by completing a partici- watch FFA members reach the highest levels of pation form which is found in the FFA Week achievement Idea Booklet. Your chapter can earn a Certifi- National Chapter Safety • Many chapters attend the convention an- cate of Participation by filling in and returning nually. You may be one of the few selected to the form. Award Program represent your chapter. Ask your advisor how Sponsored by: Dow Chemical U.S.A. • A theme audio-visual is prepared each year you can attend the national FFA Convention. and industrial Equipment which supports the FFA Week theme. This can rami • For information on the national Institute more FFA be presented to many different audiences in Convention, refer to divider #2.05 in the Chap- your community. • Recognizes chapters which make the com- ter Resource System File. • Public Service Announcements (PSAs), short munity a safer place to live and work. messages urging support for vocational agricul- • FFA chapters present safety programs, give ture and FFA, are prepared and distributed to demonstrations and educational programs, and Awards and Programs television, radio, newspapers and magazines by workshops on fire prevention and farm equip- the national FFA Center. ment safety. on Other Levels • Each year your chapter receives an FFA Week • Your chapter could win a state award or a This special insert is for awards and programs packet. This packet contains an Idea Booklet, special national citation. Spurs are presented on offered on the national level only. However, order forms for materials, proclamations and the state and national level for your chapter's there are several awards and programs avail- clip art which can be sent to local newspapers. award plaques. able at district and state levels. You can order more materials through the Offi- • For more information, refer to the Safety • information, ask your FFA advisor cial FFA Catalog. Committee Handbook and the national Chapter For more or check the Chapter Resource System File (di- • For information on FFA Week see divider Safety Award Application (divider #1.04 in the viders #1.13 and #2.12-2.14). #2.06 in the Chapter Resource System File. Chapter Resource System File). the Tab? Central Soya Company Incorporated Who Picks Up Chevron Chemical Company/Ortho Agricultural Chemical Division Your national FFA dues are $2.50 per year. This money partially funds Cotter 8; Company programs helps offset the cost of producing six issues TFA awards and and The d-Con Company Incorporated of The national FUTURE FARMER magazine. General Telephone & Electronics Corporation It takes lots of money to provide you with all the opportunities FFA has Gold Kist Incorporated to offer. And $2.50 per member does not cover all of the expenses. Even H. J. Heinz Company Foundation with a small income from FFA Supply Service sales, the FFA must rely on International Business Machines outside support. Corporation That's where support from the national FFA Foundation comes in. Moorman Company Fund

Individuals and businesses all over America recognize the significant riorfolk Southern Corporation contribution FFA and vocational agriculture makes to our society. They Phillips Petroleum Foundation, Additional Special Incorporated know that FFA members of today will be leading agriculture in the twenty- The Quaker Oats Foundation first century, in fact, sponsors recognized that future leadership by Projects Stauffer Chemical Company/Agricultural contributing $1.8 million dollars in 1984 through the national FFA General Fund Chemical 8; Seeds Division Foundation. Tenneco Incorporated

If you've won an award or participated in an FFA program, you may want Sponsors Union Oil Company of California to thank your sponsors. Your advisor can give you their addresses. Foundation Three Star Sponsors The following is a list of sponsors not mentioned earlier in this special ($20,000 to $300,000) insert. Silver Sponsors Chevrolet ($750 to $3,499) CIBA-Qeigy Corporation The Coca-Cola Company 3M Animal Care Products DlCKEY-john Corporation Agway Foundation MEMBERSHIP DUES $2.50 Jacques Seed Company Allied Corporation

J I Case, A Tenneco Company American Angus Association Massey-Ferguson American Honda Motor Company Merck Sf Co., Inc. Incorporated Mitsui S; Company (U.S.A.), Incorporated The Anderson Foundation The nation's farm Credit Bank System BASF Wyandotte Corporation Including the Federal Land Banks, Babson Brothers Company Production Credit Associations and Baker Commodities, Incorporated Banks for Cooperatives L. Q. Balfour Company Bunge Corporation Cr Industries, Incorporated Two Star Sponsors CSX Corporation ($12,500 to $19,999) Campbell Soup Fund Carnation Company Caterpillar Tractor Company foundation International Minerals S; Chemical CEMEX Corporation The Chase Manhattan Bank n.A. Mobay Chemical Corporation Chrysler Corporation Fund CPC International Incorporated $5.41 Monsanto Fund TOTAL BENEFITS The Shell Companies Foundation Curtice-Burns/Pro-FAC Foundation RECEIVED BY Incorporated Dairymen, Incorporated The Stuart Foundations The Darby Corporation EACH Eaton Corporation/Hydraulics Division MEMBER $10.40 Eckrich Foundatioa Incorporated One Star Sponsors Economics Laboratory, Incorporated Bob Evans Farms, Incorporated $3.08 ($7,500 to $12,499) Farm Credit Banks of Baltimore Cyanamid Agricultural Division farm Credit Banks of Omaha Dart & Krafl Incorporated $1.91 farm Credit Banks of Springfield Getty Oil Company farni Journal, Incorporated YAMAHA MOTOR CORFORATlOn, U.S.A farm Credit Banks of St. Louis Santa Fe Industries, Incorporated Fletcher/Mayo/Associates, Incorporated Fluor Foundation Funk Seeds International Qarst Seed Company The Gates Corporation Gold Sponsors The General Tire Foundation, Program Incorporated Future Foundation ($3,500 to $7,499) Golden Harvest Seeds, Incorporated Services F^armer Awards & American Bankers Association W. R. Grace S; Company/Agricultural Amoco Foundation, Incorporated Chemicals Group Magazine Services Apple Computers, Inc. Qrowmark Incorporated Butler Manufacturing Company Great Lakes Chemical Corporation Foundation Hershey Foods Corporation 1

Golden Sun Feeds, Incorporated Stone l^lanufacturing Supply Company Heublein Foundation Incorporated Bronze Sponsors & Grain Processing Corporation/Kent Feeds, Suburban Propane Gas Corporation Hillshire Farm Company ($250 to $749) Incorporated/Americana Seeds TechAmerica Group Incorporated W. D. Hoard & Sons Company Grain Terminal Foundation Telefiex Foundation Hoffmann-La Roche incorporated Albertson's Incorporated Qustafson, Incorporated Texas Bank for California Hotel & Motei Association of Greater American Association of Teacher H and P Company, Incorporated Texas City Refining Incorporated l^nsas City, Incorporated Educators in Agriculture The Harvest Publishing Company Transcontinental Fertilizer Company Houston Livestocl^ Stiow & Rodeo American Hoechst Corporation The Hesston State Bank Union Carbide Agricultural Products H. D. Hudson Manufacturing Company American Institute of Cooperation Hobar Publications Company, Incorporated Hunt Wesson Foods, Incorporated American Oil 8; Supply International, Illinois Central Gulf Railroad Uniroyal Chemical/Swanson, Rollheiser, ICI Americas, Incorporated/Agricultural Incorporated Imperial Nurseries Holland Chemical Division American Polled Hereford Association Indiana Farm Bureau Cooperative Universal Cooperatives, Incorporated The InterHorth Foundation Amfac Mail Order Division Association, incorporated Universal Foods Corporation International Multifoods Corporation Amfac, Incorporated (Amfac Foundation) Inter-State Milk Producers Cooperative Universal Leaf Tobacco Company Wallace H. Jerome Foundation, Angel Plants, Incorporated Incorporated Incorporated Incorporated Azle FFA Alumni Association/Azle George W. Jenkins Foundation, Valley Farms Dairy, Incorporated Kansas City Life Insurance Company Honorary FFA Incorported Vance Publishing Corporation Charitable Trust BCM, Incorporated Jewel Food Stores Venard Films Ltd. Kansas City Power & Light Company Bader Rutter 6f Associates, Incorporated Johnson Hill Press, Incorporated Vigortone Agriculture Products The Kansas City Star Company H. J. Baker fif Brothers, Incorporated The E. Khan's Sons Company Vulcan Materials Company Kellogg Company Barickman Advertising/Division of Doyle Kalo Agricultural Chemicals, Incorporated Weasler Engineering Incorporated Kerr Glass Manufacturing Corporation Dane Bernbach Advertising Kansas City Cold Storage Corporation The Webb Company Land O'Lakes, Incorporated Incorporated Kenrick Advertising Incorporated H. K. Webster Company, Incorporated Lear Siegler, Incorporated Beecham Laboratories/Animal Health Kerr-McQee Chemical Corporation Welch Foods Incorporated The James F. Lincoln Arc Welding Division The Henry Krause Charitable Foundation Wengers Farm Machinery, Incorporated Foundation Bryant Lahey 8f Barnes Incorporated Lake to Lake, Division of Land O'Lakes, Western Auto Supply Company MAFCO, Incorporated Burroughs Wellcome Company Incorporated The Wiremold Foundation MFA Foundation Business Men's Assurance Company of The H. D. Lee Company, Incorporated Wisconsin Bell, Incorporated Monsanto Agricultural Products Company America Lesher Printers, Incorporated Young & Rubicam Foundation Mormar Consulting CEVA Laboratories, Incorporated Macl*1illan Bloedel Incorporated Mabisco Brands Incorporated CalcoL Ltd. Manufacturers Hanover Trust Company The nestle Company, Incorporated Capitol Milk Producers Cooperative, Merchants Exchange of St. Louis Hordern Laboratories Incorporated Carolina Power & Light Contributors T. R. Miller Mill Company, Incorporated northrup King Company Company Mississippi Chemical Corporation ($1 to $249) The Oklahoma Publishing Company Cessna Fluid Power Division Missouri-Kansas-Texas Railroad Company 425 additional sponsors contribute to Old Republic Insurance Companies Chesapeake 8( Potomac Telephone Modine Manufacturing Company Oshkosh B'Gosh, Incorporated Company of Virginia this category. Monrovia Nursery Company PPG Industries Foundation The Citizens 6f Southern National Bank Moridge Manufacturing Incorporated Parker Hannifin Foundation DEC International/Albrecht Foundation Motorola Foundation Sponsors of Payless Cashways, Incorporated Des Moines Register & Tribune Company Other Nl Industries, Incorporated Pennwalt Corporation/AgChem Division Deutz Corporation Vocational NOR-AM Agricultural Products, Perfect School Plans Diamond V l^ills Incorporated Incorporated Philips Roxane, Incorporated Domain, Incorporated/Doboy Feeds Agricultural National Cooperative Refinery Association The Pillsbury Company Division National Cotton Council of America Education The Procter 8; Gamble Fund Dremel/Division of Emerson Electric National Rural Electric Cooperative Production Credit Association of Madison Company Association Progressive Farmer Don Dye Company, Incorporated Nationwide Foundation national Council for Royster Company Export Leaf Tobacco Company Needham, Harper and Steers Sc Dr. J. E. Salsbury Foundation Fafnir Textron Vocational Technical North American Plant Breeders The Sherwin-Williams Foundation Fairfield Manufacturing Company, Education in Agriculture Occidental Chemical Company Incorporated The Sosland Foundation Farmland Industries, Incorporated Ocean Spray Cranberries, Incorporated St. Regis Corporation Farm Credit Banks of Louisville Oil Dri Corporation of America A. E. Staley Manufacturing Company Farm Credit Banks of Spokane R. S. Owens S; Company SOE/FFA State Farm Companies Foundation Farm Fans, Incorporated national Workshop Pax Steel Products, Incorporated Steiger Tractor, Incorporated Farm Progress Companies DEKALB AgResearch, Inc. Pigeon Cooperative Elevator Company Stokely-Van Camp, Incorporated The Farm-OyI Company Quaker State Oil Refining Corporation Sun Refining and Marketing Company Farmhand, incorporated national Postsecondary Ritchie Industries, Incorporated Sunkist Growers, Incorporated Federal Land Bank of St. Louis Rockwell International/Automotive Agricultural Student Syntex Agribusiness, Incorporated Federal-Mogul Charitable Trust Operations Tandy Corporation/Radio Shack The Fertilizer Institute Organization (nPASO) Rohm fif Haas Company Teledyne Charitable Trust Foundation First Bank of Aberdeen (M.A.) American Simmental Association Rome IndustriesAVyman-Gordon Terra Chemicals International First Virginia Banks, Incorporated Elanco Products Company Foundation Incorporated Florida Farm Bureau Federation FMC Foundation SDS Biotech Corporation Tri State Breeders Cooperative Foley-Belsaw Machinery Company John Deere Foundation J. R. Simplot Company Universal Uniform French Bray, Incorporated Midwest Breeders Cooperative SmithKline Animal Health Products Velsicol Chemical Corporation Friday Foundatioa Incorporated Pfizer Incorporated/Agricultural Division Soo Line Railroad Company Versatile Farm Equipment Corporation Fruehauf Corporation Charitable Fund, Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Southern Fanners Association Whirlpool Foundation Incorporated Incorporated Southern Pacific Transportation Company Whittaker Corporation Furst-Mcness Company Southern States Cooperative, Williams Companies Foundation, Qehl Foundation, Incorportaed Incorporated Incorporated (The Agrico Chemical Georgia Agricultural Commodity Stanadyne Diesel Systems Company) Commission for Peanuts Tlie Chapter Resource System What You Should Know About the Chapter Resource System

It was designed with you in mind. Face it, information about FFA awards and

programs is useless unless you know where it is and how to use it.

The FFA Chapter Resource System is made up of five elements: the Official FFA Manual; The national FUTURE FARMER magazine & BETWEEri ISSUES; the Student Handbook & Advisor's Guide; the Official FFA Catalog and FFA Alumni. The Chapter Resource System File stores information, applications, handbooks and materials mentioned earlier in this insert. Your chapter keeps the file stocked by ordering free materials through the Official FFA Catalog. With a properly maintained Chapter Resource System File, FFA opportunities are at your fingertips

chapter: resource: :l|^l^ system: ^^l^^^^f JjiJiiM'in''

Official FFA Manual

,mEi#

Official FFA USERS M««»i FFAAIuimi] Catalog

BETWEEN Advisoi's ISSUES Gidde

The elements represented In the Chapter Resource System

are basic for eveiy FFA chapter. These elements all

contribute significantly to developing a successful FFA chapter as a part ofthe

instructional program in vocational agriculture.

National FFA Center 5632 Mt. Vernon Memorial Highway P.O.Box 15160 Use your resources to make the most of your opportunities in FFA! Alexandria, Va. 22309 WE DELIVER.

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Left, Mark Herndon, right, shows a WCP WCP participant how to fill out a conference Mark: (Conlinuedfrom Page 16) press release. Says "The counselors' role is somewhat like a big brother or big Infonnal Sessions sister." Unlike a classroom, WCP leadership training sessions are split into groups of they need to take this information back 25 FFA members or less. Students are home and share it with people," says not required to wear official FFA dress at Bruce Kettler, former national officer all times, which gives a more informal turned counselor. "They know WCP is a atmosphere, says Karla Wheeler, a Miss- personal improvement thing, but they ouri native who served as a WCP coun- also realize that they have to share it in selor in 1984. order to benefit others. "We want the students to look at WCP chapter and as a citizen, because of the "As a result, they have a greater appreci- as being fun but also as a learning things they come in contact with during ation for their family, friends, chapter experience," says Karla. the week." and advisors back home."

Perry Storms, also a 1 984 counselor, Those "things" include sightseeing to Mark Herndon says, "I think there is a says one of the conference's strongest several national monuments, George special chemistry that happens at the

points is that it helps students realize what Washington's home in Mount Vernon, conference. For many it is their first time their talents are. "For some, it's the the National FFA Center and congres- away from home, and their first time in hatching out of the shyness or timidness," sional visits with U.S. Senators and the nation's capital. To make so many he says. "They realize that they're not so Congressmen. friends in such a short while is a hard different than other people their age." Often throughout the week, FFA mem- feeling to describe. Perry also says as a result of the bers are encouraged to use what they "The students know from the first day conference, "Students come to realize have learned at WCP in their home that it's an opportunity that will happen they have a responsibility in their FFA chapter. "A lot of students realize that only once." ••• Computers the Foundation, FFA's goal is to have After a pilot school's first year, Mr. (Continuedfrom Page 30) all 500 modules sponsored by individual Staller says the basic cost of the system is companies—a commitment of nearly $224 per year for the Ag Ed Network, $400,000 from business and industry. plus a fee for connect-time. "We antici- andcomputingservicefor U.S. farmers, "Through the sponsorship of the lesson pate that a school which would use this ranchers and agribusinessmen. modules, there will be no cost to selected system between 13-15 hours of actual Tested By Ag Teachers pilot schools to utilize the system for the connect-time would be paying approxi- The Ag Ed Network was designed first year," says Mr. Staller. "After that, mately $500 per year," he says. and tested by vo-ag teachers, according it will be up to them to determine its (the High schools must have access to any to Roger Berry, a vo-ag instructor and network) effectiveness." type of microcomputer in the agriculture agribusiness consultant from Kokomo, Each state winner of the new Com- department, a modem and telephone Indiana. An advisory committee of 24 puters in Agriculture award earned a line. agricultural educators and industry $500 grant to make the network available Computer Literacy leaders created the "live" textbook to their vo-ag department. Mr. Berry says the experience students concept. get on computers will help prepare them "One of the things we've found using HARRIS: "We feel that for their futures. He says many jobs this in teaching is that the network utilizing computer technology today require computer literacy. brings a lot of "real-world" data into the "If we are going to keep up with in the high school vo-ag classroom. It's a great motivation device." modern agriculture, we have to use Mr. Berry teaches at Northwestern classroom is extremely modern resources," he says. High School, Indiana, one of 50 "pilot "However, I think we need to keep in important are to appeal to schools" selected to review test if we and mind that the computer is simply a lessons on the network prior to quality students who have the tool," he adds. "It's not gong to make September. . decisions for you." ability to become leaders. . "I think it will eventually replace Coleman Harris says the FFA pursued textbooks," he says. "Even new textbooks "Lessons are sponsored in bundles of the nationwide computer network con- can become out of date within months. five each," says Mr. Staller. "Sponsors cept for two reasons. "We need to keep Information on is Ag Ed Network not will provide the cost of putting the up-to-date with modern agricultural just hours old; oftentimes it's minutes." lessons on the system, about $4, 1 75 for a techniques," he explains. "Secondly, we Response to the new teaching tool, three-year period. This not only puts the want to enhance the quality and quantity according to Coleman Harris, FFA lesson on the system, but will also of vo-ag enrollment. executive secretary, has been excellent. maintain and update that lesson for "We feel that utilizing computer tech- As many as 500 lesson modules are now three years." nology in the high school vo-ag class- available. Lessons cover farm business Dwight Horkheimer, FFA's ag com- room is extremely important if we are to management, farm production planning, puter specialist, says, "The money a appeal to quality students who have the marketing farm products, information sponsor pays goes toward making a ability to become leaders in agriculture management and new technology in lesson available for free. In addition, in this nation," says Mr. Harris. agriculture. sponsors are also paying a dollar amount Mr. Berry agrees. "I think one of the FFA Foundation Support for the initial one-year user cost for any misconceptions of the general public is The National FFA Foundation, Inc., pilot school. that farmers are backwards or dumb," is soliciting business and industry finan- "Pilot schools are only made available he says. "If a student is undecided about cial support to help vo-ag departments as the lessons are sponsored," says Mr. going into agriculture, maybe computers pay for the use of the system. According Horkheimer, a former high school ag in vo-ag will show the sophistication of to Bernie Staller, executive director of instructor. agriculture." •••

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A Checklist For Officers: some tips that will help you get Ready To Lead

If you have been elected, or plan to run for an FFA office someday, these words of leadership advice may help. By Michael Wilson

So you've just been elected to serve then five others have that much more work." leadership team. as an FFA officer. Congratulations! Concentrate on your officer duties. If you've been elected reporter, do You're brimming with confidence, full An officer's job can easily be broken up your best job as a reporter. Don't do the of enthusiasm and energy, ready to lead two ways: first, as an individual with secretary's job, too. By giving your best others on to FFA glory. Nothing will specific duties; second, as part of a (Continued on Page 54) stop you! You are ready to lead, aren't you? As an officer, you will make many important decisions affecting not just yourself, but others around you. Your Leadership actions can mean the difference between success or failure. ...For The Rest Of Us These tips, offered by your 1984 na- can also be a leader without tional officers, will help assure success You benefit the chapter, you're being a serving as an officer. "We're all for you and future FFA leaders. leader, says Melody. "If you've found vital to the chapter," says Melody what you're interested in, developed Lawson. officer is "Being an just one some skills and tried to help younger Set an example for other members. leadership." area of members develop their skiUs, then "No one ever loses any respect for some- Bill Caraway agrees. "Before you're doing your part," she says. one who is willing to get in and do the you a Only a handful of people become small, less glamorous things that need to can be good chapter officer, you've chapter officers, and those are be done," says Ron Wineinger, national got to be a good chapter member," he who president. says. "And if you don't get elected, not elected should not become dis- become a better member." couraged. Although he served as chap- That is good advice for anyone. But ter secretary as a junior. Bill Caraway it's especially important to officers if they You can be a leader by simply was defeated in his attempt to run for want others to respect them as leaders, pursuing your own interests in voca- president as a senior. He was never says Ron. tional agriculture or FFA. If you're a state officer. In spite of this. Bill Carol Irvine, eastern region vice presi- interested in livestock, try out for the went on to win the 1981 national dent says, "If one officer is goofing off at team or volunteer your farm's stock extemporaneous public speaking con- a meeting, then you can expect others to for judging practice. test, and later was elected national goof off, too. It's an old line, but the Any time you can do something to FFA secretary. ••• chain is only as strong as its weakest link. If one person isn't doing the job

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(Continuedfrom Page 52)

effort to your own individual duties, you are serving your officer team and chapter to the best of your abilities. As a team member, officers should strive to treat each other as equals. "My first office was as chapter sentinel," says Carol, "but the president made me feel just as important as he was. I appreciated that."

Service above self. The national officers have adopted the theme, "Service above self' as a team motto. "Any time you're an officer or a leader, the real key is to think about what's best for FFA or your chapter, rather than what's best for me," says Ron.

Delegate responsibility. Be able to assign activities to other members of the chapter, advises Rhonda Scheulen, cen- Photos by Bill Slagg tral region vice president. The closer you are to the people you lead, the better job you will do as their leader.

This is important for several reasons: it gets other members involved, makes sizing the people who have done excellent activities. That means arriving early to them feel needed and important, and work through the year," says Melody. meetings, staying late if necessary, and increases the productivity of your chapter. Your officer team can make hard- pitching in on the little, thankless jobs The satisfaction of a job well done is working FFA members feel appreciated behind all activities. more meaningful when several members by pointing out their efforts and thanking "New officers have to face the fact that are involved, says Rhonda. them during an FFA meeting, orpresent- they must devote more time and energy "There are times when an officer has to building FFA and their chapter," says to take the bull by the horns and lead by There is nothing worse than an Carol. "But officers need to remember example," she says. "But you have to give that some members may not share their who, wishing to be re- other people the chance to work, too. officer degree of enthusiasm about the FFA. Sometimes it's the biggest thrill in the elected, suddenly develops an in- "In spite of that, officers have to keep world for a Greenhand to be asked to do their enthusiasm high eventually it will terest in his fellow FFA mem- — a job or lead a committee." catch on like wildfire to the others." Delegate responsibilities fairly. Base bers two weeks before the election. Keep in touch. Now that you are an your decisions on members' willingness officer, it is more important than ever to work, ing certificates which their to not popularity. recognize communicate with fellow members. This "By doing a good job as an officer, contributions. will help you better understand the without letting the for This will help ensure the qualified popularity do job most strengths and weaknesses of your chapter. you, you demonstrate how your chapter people are elected next year, says Melody. More important, members will respect can be successful based on performance, Younger members will see that people and admire you more if you sincerely not popularity," says Melody Lawson, do good jobs are rewarded. who value their opinions, throughout the western region vice president. "People FFA is a high priority. When you year. There is nothing worse than an will remember that." were elected, you made a commitment to officer who, wishing to be re-elected, Give Credit Where Credit is Due. your chapter that you would devote as suddenly develops an interest in his "Officers need to make a point of empha- much time as possible toward FFA fellow FFA members two weeks before the election. Below, by giving your best effort to your own duties, you serve your officer team and "If don't associate chapter to the best of your abilities. you with them and you're the leader, who are you going to lead? And how are you going to leadT asks Bill Caraway, national FFA secretary. "Be able to talk with members

without sounding like it's a campaign." The closer you are to the people you lead, the better job you will do as their leader, says Chuck Duggar, southern region vice president. "People think that national officers have more impact than chapter officers," says Chuck. "But really, officers on the local level have more opportunities to make a difference because they spend more time with each member.

"The end result is, if your chapter has been successful, you've been successful." ••• 54 The National FUTURE FARMER ^^-•^.

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AMERICAN CRAFTSMANSHIP SINCE 1864 A Chance To Ranch

Despite an uncertain future, this FFA member is determined to become a rancher someday.

in farming or ranching. But It's home. careers important to give up. He knows what he Been part of the family since 1841. often the family business is not large wants to do in life —even if it means Since my ancestors crossed the Plains in enough to support another partner. leaving the family ranch and starting a wagon train. That's when it's time to make some somewhere else.

But it's so split up now. Land divided tough decisions. "I want to go into ranch managing, too often in the name of giving everyone Matthew has decided his dream is too (Continued on Page 62) a fair share of the home place. . .

Thoughts like these often run through Matthew Fiegel's head. Matthew, 17, of Julian, California, figures it may soon be time for him to leave the family ranch — there's simply not enough ranch to go around. The Fiegels live on a 2,500-acre cow/ calf beef ranch near Julian, Cali- fornia. That may sound like a lot of land to a Corn Belt farmer, but out on the range, it's a drop in the bucket. Unlike "Dallas," where oil barons leap out of limos and onto horses, the real world of ranching revolves around two things: living within your resources and tight management. "I've lived here my whole life,"

Matthew says of the ranch. "But I don't think it's going to be mine someday. I'm the third of four kids and it barely supports us. My dad also works for the road department and my mom is a

waitress. When I turn 18 or get out of

high school, I'll more or less be gone." Matthew's challenge is not unlike those faced by many young people today. Like Matthew, many desire

Matthew Fiegel, right, is confident of a career as a rancher, despite an uncertain future. Below, (Matthew "directs" a steer through a squeeze-chute.

56 Adjournment

is just the beginning.

The gavel falls. The crowd files out. Another Future

Farmers of America National Convention is history. And again, the Production Credit Associations and Federal Land Bank Associations are there sponsoring one of FFA's most important programs — recognition of the American Farmer degree recipients.

But our support doesn't end at adjournment.

In fact, our local associations will be involved with many FFA activities throughout the country throughout the year. Because we believe helping young people prepare for careers in agriculture is important ... not only for the well-being of the industry but the nation and world as well.

That's why we want to offer special encouragement to those students considering careers in production agriculture or agribusiness. And why we pledge our continued support of FFA — 365 days a year

y^^M-^;1¥l7VNDB7VNK —

^~>^-m News, . Notes, ^->w anaand Nonsense fromtr Everywhere

by Jack Pitzer

The Dorman, SC, Chapter safety In K Y, Farmington and Sedalia, Chap- Jimmy Carpenter is the fourth member committee offered a hunter safety educa- ters in Graves County, worked together of the Carroll County, VA, Chapter to tion course in August. The course was to build an exhibit for their state fair. be selected as Star State Agribusinessman conducted in cooperation with the state's The theme was "FFA— Kentucky Crops, in four years. He was also elected to a department of wildlife and marine re- Keeping America on the Grow." state office. His two brothers were also sources and taught good sportsmanship, N-N-N officers of the state association. proper hunting ethics, proper gun han- Lee Scaggs and Chris Bilow painted N-N-N dling techniques and safety. the vo-ag classroom this summer in Big Timber, MT, FFA has elected N-N-N Mexico, NY. twin brothers as reporters Bill and Creighton, NE, FFA organized a pre- N-N-N Fred Harmon. It will test the old saying fair tractor driving contest in the school The Centreville, MI, Chapter broke "two heads are better than one." parking lot. It let everybody get ready up the summer doldrums with an area N-N-N for the big event at the fair. Softball tourney. Cassopolis Chapter N-N-N won overall. One big feature was the Officers of the Cass County Voc-Tec hotdog feed for all participants. FFA in MO spent a three-day session in N-N-N the Ozarks planning the year's activities. In Deland, FL, FFA members are After their work they enjoyed trout preparing for the fall roundup—a barbe- fishing, camping and swimming. que dinner and rodeo for under 18. N-N-N N-N-N Freshmen and sophomore students at Agua Fria, AZ, grew potatoes in their experimental drip system and then do- Cobleskill, NY, banquet slide show nated the 150 pounds of potatoes har- roasted outgoing and incoming officers. vested to the local food bank. N-N-N N-N-N Shelley Olson won a $ 100 scholarship Notus, ID, hosts a goodbye seniors for a senior member of the Lexington, dance to salute and say goodbye. OK, Chapter who plans to attend college. N-N-N N-N-N Jerry Coats, reporter in Thayer, MO, In order to ensure attendance and sent word about their chapter sponsored Anthony Wayne, OH, FFA partici- avoid any loss of food and finances, the mini-rod garden tractor pull this spring. pated in Fascination Day at a local Cumberland Valley, PA, required a It was a success and so they're middle school and told students there planning cash reservation be made by members another this fall. about FFA. for the FFA picnic. N-N-N N-N-N N-N-N Reporter Barbra Pereira of the Mer- There were 30 members and guests at Arroyo Grande, CA, Chapter hosts the DeWitt Central, I ced, CA, FFA writes about the award A, Chapter swim an annual junior livestock fair designed party local designed to salute her grandfather who at a country club pool. to help 4-H members (ages 9-16) prepare N-N-N died last year. He was a farmer in the themselves and their animals for the community and like himself, his sons local fairs. and grandchildren have been involved N-N-N with the FFA. So a special tribute fund Zillah, WA, won the "In Club" award was established by family and friends at the state convention for getting every and it was used this year to purchase a member involved in at least one chapter dairy buckle to honor the high individual project during the year. on the dairy team. N-N-N N-N-N Received a brief message from one The June meeting of the North Ma- chapter: Silo, OK, FFA bleeds for char- haska FFA in New Sharon, lA, was at ity. Some 47 students and teachers gave. Lake Keomah with a swim first. The air N-N-N was cool but the water was warm. Melrose, NM, Chapter banquet Easton- Fresno, CA, held an open N-N-N wrapped up a whole year of success. house in the spring so their community Cara D'Ann Jernigan was named N-N-N could observe the improvements in the winner of the '84 Mansfield, TX, Alumni From the Carrizozo, NM, Chapter vo-ag department. scholarship. The S500 scholarship is Grey and Lynn Gallagher, John Roueche N-N-N presented annually to a senior who and Mary Jane Ferguson received the The FFA's contribution for the Cleve- through their leadership, scholarship State Farmer degree at the state conven- land, OK, pioneer day celebration was a and supervised occupational experience tion. Also Advisors Gaines and Ferguson children's barnyard. Animals included program has proven to be an outstanding were given the Honorary State Farmer three horses for the kids to ride. member of the local chapter. degrees. N-N-N N-N-N N-N-N Keep the old mail pouch full now that The George W. Long Chapter in Albuquerque Cibola, NM, Chapter chapters are back in session. What neat Skipperville, AL, won the state livestock started a vidoetape library this year. things are going on to increase member- judging contest, and had the state swine They've taped guest speakers, member ship? Or participation? Or SOEP? Don't production winner. Plus six State Farmers public speaking entries, the awards ban- wait for the reporter to send in news at their summer's state convention. quet and other chapter activities. about your chapter, you can do it.

58 Tlie Salional FITL RE FARMER .\w-

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High-Tech Dairy

The Shade brothers of Alexandria, Pennsylvania, use computer skills to thrust the family dairy into a new era of management efficiency.

By John Dutcher

THE Holstein cows at Shade Acres don't eat like pigs anymore. Once, the bovine beauties gobbled their feed in pursuit of the last mouthful of grain. Now, a computer feeding system dishes up dinner and the "girls" aren't given feed. They earn it. "It saves us so much money because there's never any waste," says Chip Shade, 19. "Each cow gets exactly what she's supposed to, no more, no less." The computerized feeding system is just one of the high-tech tools FFA members Chip and Jim Shade, 16, of Alexandria, Pennsylvania, use to keep the family farm efficient and profitable. The Shade family farm is one in transition. It's changing from today's production methods to those of the future; changing from parents to sons. The Shades are making the changes very well. They're prospering in today's uncertain dairy industry because they know how to make the Computer Age work for them. For the Shades, the Computer Age started two years ago when Chip and Photos Author Jim's father, Geary, bought a Westfalia Above, the numbers on the collar correspond to the computer's by Separator, a German-made dairy com- number for each cow's breeding record. puter and feeding system —one of only two in Pennsylvania at the time. The simple to operate," he says. Each cow's "With this system, a cow has 24 hours ration is programed into the computer to eat her feed instead of 15 minutes," along with her breeding records. The says Chip. The result: little wasted feed The Shade family farm is one in rations are developed for each cow to and a herd milk butterfat test which has receive a given amount of feed based on from 3.2 percent before the transition. It's changing from jumped milk production and stage of lactation. system was installed to 3.8 percent today. today's production methods to Once programed, the cows are fitted those of the future; changing with radio transmitter collars. To Each His Own Each time a cow approaches a feeder, and Jim's computer interests from parents to sons. Chip a sensory device reads the collar and echo their specialties on the farm. "Chip checks with the computer to see who the likes working with the cattle." explains system, which includes a computer, radio cow is. The computer activates the feeder Mr. Shade. "Jim is more interested in transmitter collars and three automated if the cow hasn't eaten her alloted ration working the crops." feeders, had a price tag that would choke for that part of the day. As Chip says, It's not surprising, then, that Chip and a cow: $17,200. "the collars are their meal tickets for life." Jim also divide computer work. Chip The computer feeding set-up was worth Each cow's feed is divided for distri- works almost entirely on the Westfalia, the money, according to Mr. Shade. It's bution, 2.2 ounces at a time, in three programing herd rations, as well as the so efficient that it paid for itself injust 1 eight-hour periods. The feed ration is health and breeding records. Jim on months. "There's just nothing we ever made up of soybean meal and ground other hand, does the farm accounting, bought that paid for itself that soon," ear corn mixed with minerals, which are record keeping and develops feed rations says Chip, who programs the Westfalia. separately distributed from bins inside using the family's Apple II. Chip's only computer training was the feeders. Rations can be reprogramed Jim started at Juniata Valley High reading the owner's manual to learn how for cows as their nutrition and production School about the same time computers to program the system. "It's really pretty needs change. hit the classroom. He and Mr. Shade 60 The Salional Fl TL RE FARMER Above, the Shade family: left to right, Chip, Judy, Jim and Geary.

period in the 1 5-month program and lets him figure out how to lower production when nesessary. Since the program forbids dairymen to sell producing cattle to other producers, when production goes up, they have a choice: dump milk or slaughter cows.

Above, Chip, right, and Jim, left, update individual cow's feed rations each day at "Cow Games" noon. The rations are developed from a computer program Jim wrote. When the Shades milk production gets dangerously close to the limit, Jim took a summer course to learn how to Jim's most impressive program has starts playing "cow games" with his use computers for farm accounting and kept the family from going crazy trying computer. He simulates what short and record keeping. to keep track of milk production records. long-range effects the loss of a particular The course was enough to convince Accurate records are crucial because the cow would have on the herd. Mr. Shade that, yes, he needed a com- Shades are participating in the federal Thanks to the program, Jim has taken puter and, no, he didn't plan on using it. government's Milk Diversion Program. the headaches out of reducing production. "Dad won't learn to use the computer," Less Milk "Without Jim's program I don't know Jim whispers. "He says it's for the new The program went into effect on how we'd ever keep within our production generation." January I, 1984 and is designed to limit," says Judy Shade, Chip and Jim's Jim doesn't buy computer programs. reduce the U.S. milk surplus. Dairy mother. He writes his own using Visicalc software. producers could sign up for the program The Shades say they joined the Com- Jim says a good farm accounting pro- to reduce their production from between puter Age as soon as posible to help gram, like the one he wrote in six hours, 5-30 percent based on their average over smooth the family's biggest transition: a can cost up to $500. "When Dad and I sit the last two years. farm from parents to sons. Mr. and Mrs. down to write a program, we can get it The Shades signed up for the program Shade plan to retire from farming in done," says Jim. "I just have to know and cut production 27 percent. Under 1987 to "take some vacations they've what he wants." the program, their production can only been missing out on." In addition to the accounting system, vary by 3 percent above their limit. The shift should be easy, for both Jim has written programs for crops, feed Without accurate records, they could Chip and Jim have the interest and rations and farm records. He's even overproduce and loose thousand of computer know-how to make quite a plotted out a farmland program with dollars of incentive pay (the program partnership in the dairy business. detailed diagrams of each field giving pays producers $10 per cwt if they stay Now that they've got the cows to stop slope, locations of field tile, and fertili- inside their limit). So Jim wrote a program eating like pigs, it's time to tackle future zer/lime application records. that averages milk production for each challenges. ••• October-November, 1984 61 would end up in my savings account for Ranch college," says Matthew. "When I was a freshman in FFA, I expanded and (Continued from Page 56) bought two more cows at pretty good prices." Matthew has eight other cows given to him by his father in exchange where 1 can make my own decisions and for working on the ranch. be around the things I've grown up "I bought a Limousin bull, which I with," he says. "I may end up managing use to breed my cows," explains somebody else's ranch. So this is why Matthew. "A third of the income on the I'm learning everything I can here at calves pays for the pasture rent." home. My Dad has turned a lot of has also worked as a hired hand at decisions over to me." He Kinnerin Ranch, a purebred Brangus Making those decisions is no easy operation near Julian. "It's the kind of task, with both parents working and ranch I can get experience at," says Matthew finishing out his senior year at who was employed through Julian High School. "This spring Dad Matthew, the Julian vo-ag department's placement and I ran about 1 20 calves through our program. "And experience is everything." working corral," Matthew gestures. "We Experience and education should help castrate and ear-mark them in March, make Matthew's dream come true. But and take care of any other needs later. I there's one additional ingredient that check the cows on horseback about ties it all together, something every every three days in the summer." He also young person needs to tackle the real shows cattle at the local fair each year. world after high school: confidence. When Matthew, his two sisters and "Once I'm out of college. 1 think I'll brother inherit the ranch, many things do all right," Matthew says in a quiet, could happen. determined voice. "We'll probably split it up four ways," "All I need is to get my foot in the he says, "But I don't want to see that door. I may not know how yet," he happen. I want to see it a whole ranch, laughs, "but I know I can prove myself. ^BW**^^^^^^*^ aaA4 7 DAYS maybe each of us with 25 percent of the CALL PST If I just get the chance." ••• NEVADA 883;«„^% pM cows. (l CHECKS, MONEY "I saw it happen to my grandparents," i^^^l ORDERS ACCEPTED he says shaking his head. "My great SIERRA LIFESTYLES grandparents came here in 1841, settled CARSON CITY, NEVADA here, and since then from generation to THE LAND THAT MADE JEANS FAMOUS" generation, the ranch has been all split up, down to 40 acres here, 30 acres there.

"You can't work it as a ranch anymore because everybody wants to do what 1-800-892-3373 (IL) they want with their share they've 1-800-435-4351 own — (Division of got their own ideas." Genetic Dynamics) Matthew has ideas too. He plans to |pit\ESERyichi study ag mechanics and ranch management at California Polytechnic State University at San Luis Obispo after graduation next year. He saved money for college through his SOE program.

"I was given a cow when I was born, and each year the money from the calf

Right, Matthew uses the family's working corral and squeeze-chute to condition show animals. Below, home from checking the cows on horseback.

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By Guarding whafs close to you now.

If you're tough and determined, if you can think fast and move faster, there's a challenging job waiting for you in the Army National Guard Infantry. It's an importantjob, one of the most important in America. And it's one job where the rewards match the challenge. In the Army Guard Infantry, you'll gain leadership skills that can be very valuable in civilian life. Youll also learn to rely on yourself, take command, and work as an integral part of a team. You'll earn excellent part-time income and be entitled to college tuition assistance, PX privileges, a fully-paid retirement plan, life insurance, and lots more. Evenoetter, youll be serving close to home, helping people in your community and state when natural disasters or emergencies strike. After initial training, it takes two days a month and two weeks annual training to serve. So youll have plenty of time for college or a full-time job. Infantry in the Army Guard. It's what we call a part-time, smart-time job. Take a big step for your future. Contact your local Army Guard recruiter, or call toll-firee 800-638-7600. A 'in Hawaii: 737-5255; Puerto Rico: 723-4550; Guam: 477-9957; Virgin Islands (St. Croix): 773-6438; New Jersey: 800-452-5794. In Alaska consult your local phone directory. The Guard is America at its best.

GUARDmATIONAL

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Careers in "Since the meat industry is a large part of the nation's economy, positions Agriculture are sure to be aroundfor a long time.

Below, the official USDA mark for ap- This mark is on all federally inspected This mark goes on all federally inspected proved meat carcasses, stamped only prepackaged processed meat products, fresh and frozen poultry and processed on major cuts of the carcass. from beef barley soup to frankfurters. poultry products.

^^tAAS/iM.^m^o^,

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE P-42

Careers In Food Inspection

By Shirley Jones

THE funny thing about growing up and confuse this with grading, the service Minneapolis-based USDA office, says getting a job is that you often end up provided by another agency which assigns that beginning food inspectors have sev- doing something much different than levels of quality and is purely voluntary. eral major responsibilities. They work you ever imagined. A little history is in order to help you with veterinary medical officers in red Despite all my first grade plans for understand why food wholesomeness is meat or poultry plants to ensure that becoming a cowboy, I ended up at a so important, beyond the obvious health slaughtered animals intended for human word processor instead of a horse. I can't reasons. food are disease free and handled in a travel very far on it, but there isn't much Unsanitary Conditions sanitary manner. They work on the kill feed expense, either. In 1906, a writer named Upton Sinclair floors of slaughterhouses, looking for The moral of the story is this: there are wrote a book called TTie Jungle, which abnormal animals. And they work in a world ofjobs out there, hidden in office told of unsanitary conditions in Chicago's food processing plants that use meat or buildings and throughout the countryside, meat packinghouses. Not much time poultry in their products. just waiting for talented people to come passed before the public uproar caused TTie position is one of great responsibil- along. President Theodore Roosevelt to order ity, since inspectors must carefully observe One vast source of employment is the an investigation. The U.S. Congress held carcasses and remove the unwholesome United States Government. In this issue hearings and their outcome was the ones from the line. we'll take a look at a career you may have Federal Meat Inspection Act of 1906. More than 9,000 federal inspectors never considered, yet one you may be The law said cattle, hogs, sheep and and veterinarians work in some 7,000 perfectly suited for: food inspection. goats had to be inspected at slaughter. meat and poultry slaughtering and pro- Stan Prochaska, of USDA in Wash- Processed meats had to be inspected for cessing plants throughout the country, ington, D.C., explains that a federal additives, and packing plants had to be according to a USDA publication. "Since agency called the Food Safety and Quality sanitary. Up until 1957, poultry inspection the meat industry is a large part of the Service makes sure food and food pro- was voluntary, but today it too is required. nation's economy, positions are sure to ducts are inspected for wholesomeness That act gave birth to a need for food be around for a long while," says Ms. because it is mandated by law. Don't inspectors. Sandra Cox, working from a Cox.

64 The .\ational FCTLRE FARMER "

You can also advance in the industry by becoming a "processing inspector." This means you would work in food Made to fit the best manufacturing to help manufacturers When you're looking for west- regarding food comply with regulations ern boots for work or play, you additives, fat water percentages, and insist on fit, durability, style and labels other specifications. and good looks . So do we! Crown Requirements for becoming a food Boots are hand crafted from the inspector include passing a written test. finest leathers and exotic skins College course work is not required, but and feature all-leather soles and like any job, classes could be helpful. heels, uniform stitching, and most Requirements are spelled out more fully important, that "wear 'um all day" in the government's brochure about this comfort that Is built into every pair career. that proudly wear our mark. Dr. Bob Marshall of the University of We take pride in making boots Missouri says a knowledge of biology worthy of the western tradition, and chemistry is quite helpful. "You need and you'll take pride in wearing the to understand the diseases that might best. occur," he says, "and biology in particular "Boots That Fit The West"

Style #1221 Bullhide/Peanut Bntlle vamp with brown top Salaries for beginning food inspectors range between $13,000 ^ and $14,000per year. After a one- year probation period, employees are eligible for increases of up to per year. $3,000 SOOT COMPANY can give you a good understanding." Along with education, there are some physical requirements as well. Good ^ color vision is needed to help spot abnor- P O. Box 1913, Galveston, Texas 77553 / 1-800-231-1065 malities. The ability to work in a standing m TEXAS (409) 7659225 position is critical; the strength to lift moderate weight and the use of both hands is important. Salaries for beginning food inspectors range between $13,000 and $14,000 per No matter what the conditions, year. After a one-year probation period, employees are eligible for increases of up its always ready to go another round. to $3,000 per year. You can get more information by writing to Food Safety Inspection Service, Personnel Operations Branch, Butler Square West, 4th Floor, 100 North Sixth Street, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55403. •••

What good is a rifle so fancy and the hard, cold realities of deer hunt- expensive that you're afraid to take it ing. Year after year after year. See your in the woods? There are rocks out gun dealer Or write Marlin Firearms

there. And mud. And miserable Co., North1 Haven, CT 06473 > weather. What you need is a Marlin for our new lever action deer rifle. An affordable catalog. Alafliri m "// says Fm going to be a gun that's rugged enough to survive A merica 's Largest Riflemaker farmer and make a million dollars. •Rebate offer valid in 1984 only. It has my weight wrong, too.

October-November, 1984 65 FFAiffffliM

inch rows was 72 pounds of seed per acre, and when doubled back was 144 pounds of seed per acre. Beside these rows, the grain drill was used in 7-inch '^Ij rows with the Voris seed. The FFA members will be able to see the different row spacings with the same seed and will check the yields at the end of the year. The balance of the planting for June 26 was drilled with Keller seed and this completed the center portion of the laboratory. The final part of the land laboratory was on the irridrained land. On this 4'/: acres the chapter put in some variety plots with Voris 285, Bin Run Williams 79, Asgrow 3127, Williams 79, Beeson 80, Vickery, Wellman 335 and Wellman 245. This plot area will be used to see what the late planting will do to the varieties in the test. When harvested these varieties will be separately harvested with yield checks taken as to the profit- ability of each variety on stress conditions The work days were actually fun for the large cleanup crew from West and late plantings. Muskingum Chapter who volunteered time and hard work In exchange for some The chapter would like to express good recreation. thanks to the people that contributed time, labor, machinery, supplies, and Chapter Camp Cleaners helped to get the school farm started. A special thanks goes to the Soil Conserva- Several FFA members, alumni and moving dead and damaged trees, land- tion Office for their help and guidance in the advisors from the West Muskingum scaping and numerous other projects. designing the tiling system. (Gary Cham- FFA Chapter in Zanesville, Ohio, par- The evening of the first day was spent bers, Reporter) • • • ticipated in a two-day cleanup of Ohio fishing, swimming and a volleyball game FFA Camp Muskingum. against the camp staff. The members Chapter members assisted the camp really enjoyed themselves and provided On With The Show staff in several projects that included the camp staff plenty of help to get the Cass County Voc-Tec FFA, Harrison- cutting, splitting and stacking five cords camp ready for the several hundred ville, Missouri, recently received $150 of firewood; planting 1,000 white pine FFA members attending the six camp from area pork producers to assist in seedlings, constructing picnic tables, re- sessions. (Pat Lichtner, Reporter)* • • building show panels for the local North Park show barn. Ten panels were built Learning on the Land by FFA members Toni Chafin. Mike Wray and Matt Wray. The Oak Harbor, Ohio, Chapter re- parison are on this part of the school The North Park show barn has been a ports on the farming operations of their farm. part of the chapter's BOAC project for new school land laboratory. Also planted on June 25 were no-till several years and they have assisted with Before the land was ready for planting, beans and conventional till planted Voris the planning and building of the arena the farm was tiled by a drainage com- 295 soybeans. This will allow the FFA and barn. Chapter funds also went to pany. The tiling procedure started on members to watch the difference between purchase three metal gates for the show June 6 and was completed on June 27. no-till and conventional till plantings barn for this show season. (Doug Roth. The back half of the farm was tiled with during the summer and fall. Reporter) • • • clay tile, the center of the farm was tiled On June 26, Carl Miller worked in with plastic tile and the front 4'/3 acres some chemicals for herbicide or weed near the woods was tiled on 20-foot control. This four-acre plot will be dif- Team Talents centers and has regulation stations to ferent from the rest of the field since it In June the Kuna, Idaho, FFA mem- regulate the amount of water left in the was sprayed as pre-emergence after bers traveled to the state judging contests tile which will act as an underground planting. The weed control can be held at the University of Idaho. The first irrigation system called irridrain. watched by the two plots. night was spent at Wallowa Lake where On June 25, the back portion of the After the soil incorporation of the the Kuna Chapter had a Softball game school land laboratory was planted with herbicide, the planter purchased by the and picnic scheduled with the Meridian the tractor purchased by the Oak Harbor Oak Harbor Young Farmers began to Chapter. The game was cancelled because FFA and a grain drill. The beans planted plant beans in 30-inch rows beside the of the weather, but the picnic was still on this part of the farm were Washington 14-inch rows. After planting nearly six held. V and AgriPro 350. These varieties were acres, they doubled back in the same After the chapter arrived at the uni- blended in the drill for planting. On this rows splitting the difference and making versity and since the contests didn't start portion of the field, the herbicide plot 15-inch rows for row spacing variables. until the next day, the members spent which is sponsored by Monsanto is All of this planting was done with Voris time touring the university. located. Lasso and Dual plots for com- 295 seed. The planting rate of the 30- (Contimied on Page 6H)

66 The National FUTURE FARMER Squeeze more profits out of these juicy fund raise^rs.

1 Sunkist® citrus. The fund raiser that can earn extra money for your organization. Sunkist Fund Raising Because with the name Sunkist, you won't Sunkist Growers, Inc. P.O. Box 7888, VanNuys, CA 91409 1 have to worry about creating a market. It's already out there. And since consumers are willing to pay more for the Sunkist name, you can charge more for Sunkist than any Name other citrus. Organization Your group can sell Sunkist navel oranges, Sunkist valencias or tangy Sunkist Address grapefruit. And make enough money to outfit a band, suit up a team, or support City your favorite project. All year 'round. I Zip To find out more, send for our free State booklet. It'll tell you how to make sweet, NFF juicy profits. You have our word on it.^" Sunkist, (^nkist,and"You have our word on if'are trademarks of Sunkist Growers, Inc.©l983. "

Big Jim Halters Cuts Haltor Breaking I TImm In Half Resulfs Guaronteed | rFFAiir^iiiwr 4 sizes adjust to any ommol Chrome Ploted | (Pick up A CTIONfrom Page 66) FREE For information write: _ BOOKLETS BIG JIM HALTER CO. I The livestock team placed third overall R1. 3, Box 3138, Boerne, TX 78006 !*. with Greg Curtis and Mark Berheim in on purchasing and caring for the top ten. The agricultural mechanics team your horses are available. In ad- placed eighth overall with Steve Hines dition, you'll receive a confor- NEW! as second high individual in the small mation chart, and information gasoline engine area. on the free use of instructional The Young l| The dairy products team placed eighth films covering conformation and Cattleman ""' overall and the dairy cattle team placed performance events. first, therefore qualifying them to com- CONTACT: pete at the national convention in the American Quarter Horse For the begin- fall. Tricia Callaway placed second high Association ner or experienced individual. Dept. FFA Tips on selecting, The poultry team got a third overall Amarillo, Texas 79168 showman. and Jeff Murri was seventh high indi- (806)376-4811 care, feeding, grooming and showing productive and efficient vidual. Charolais and Charolais-cross In the agribusiness management con- steers and heifers. Write for your test Shawna Brown received eighth high National Suffolk FREE copy today! individual and the team placed ninth. Sheep The crops team placed second with AMERICAN-INTERNATIONAL Jacque Palmer fifth high and Lisa Beus CHAROLAIS ASSOCIATION Association/^j as second high individual. P.O. Box 20247—Kansas City, Mo. 64195 The meats team took second and 816/891-6432 Steve Hines placed ninth high and Lisa Beus placed fifth high. • • • DORSET SHEEP "the mother breed" Playing T-Ball Out of Season Breedlna Good Mothers—Good MilKers TTie Stafford, Virginia, FFA sponsored Outstanding Carcass Quality their own 6-8-year-old T-ball team

For more information & breeders list contact: through the county parks and recreation

Continental Dorset Club, P.O. Box 506, Hudson, Iowa 50643 department this past summer as part of their community involvement and youth development program. The purpose of the T-ball program is ^(Med ^ene^ond^.,,OK 'T^ M^4ac' to develop a sense of teamwork and sportsmanship for the 6-8-year-old girls and boys as well as teach the basics of baseball. The Stafford FFA felt that the development of character and ability to organize and work together a very worth- while idea. In sponsoring the team the Stafford FFA's donation of $50 covered the team's registration and provided matching tee shirts for each team mem- (Continued on Page 70)

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For more information about the Breed on the Move, visit a local Polled Hereford breeder, or write: Polled Herefords The Bull Power Breed "I installed air conditioning and a stereo. American Pblled Hereford Association 17(X) K.fi3rd St Now I can't get in it to plow. Kansas City, Mo. ti-J'.:«) 68 The National FUTURE FARMER Announcing

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Written exclusively for FFA members Color photos tell the FFA story

AfnaunooF •.^^t

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FFA In Mton (Pick up ACTIONfrom Page 68)

ber. The team name was "Stafford FFA" man hours were spent in the preparation the tornado sirens blew and all 45 and it consisted of 14 players. The and construction of the project. members headed for the locker room. Stafford FFA advisor served as the The members of the Dorman FFA The meeting continued "down-under" team coach. Chapter are proud of their accomplish- and came to a close about one hour The team finished the regular season ment and contribution. (C. Gerald later. With the close of the meeting the tied for third place out of ten teams. Moore, Advisor) • • • members returned to the ag shop in Each team member received a certificate knee-deep water and some members of achievement. Advisor Hall received a Weekly Service found they could not return home until coach's award for leadership as a coach Members of the Granton, Wisconsin, morning because of the flooding and and in appreciation of support and FFA recently held a rabies clinic in their blocked roads about a quarter of a mile interest in the welfare of our community area. In cooperation with the local from school where the tornado touched and the FFA chapter received a sponsor veterinarians, the clinic vaccinated over down. (Colleen Janak, Reporter) • • • certificate for support and interest in 65 dogs and cats. community welfare. • • • The next week they held a mastitis A Message on tlie Wall clinic and sold over 1 20 tubes of mastitis This project began as a representation drugs at a reduced price to reduce the of the agricultural community in Keytes- incidence of mastitis. Judgement in the Courtyard ville, Missouri, and the importance the the next Members of the Dorman, South Then week they held a fire Future Farmers of America plays in its Carohna, FFA Chapter recently com- extinguisher day and had area fire ex- future. The painting was designed, pleted and dedicated a courtyard for the tinguishers refilled for local citizens. (Tim painted and mounted by an advanced • • • students of Dorman High School. Parker, President) art class. Of the four class members, two The project took almost a year to were FFA members who helped with complete starting in June of 1983, includ- Windy Toucli Down determining the elements to be included. ing the planning, grading, forming, pour- Neither rain, nor snow, nor tornado The students tried to represent as ing of cement, landscaping, dirt removal could stop the Waverly, Nebraska, Chap- many aspects of farming as possible and construction of benches. Work on ter from having their usual (well, maybe leading from past to present methods. the project started during the summei not quite so usual) monthly FFA meet- They chose Grant Wood's "American and was completed just prior to school ing. Gothic" couple to represent Americana. completion. On June 12, 1984, the Waverly FFA The lake containing their reflection is in Chapter members saved the school Chapter began their meeting in the ag the shape of Missouri. Fields were over $5,000 had a contractor been hired shop and ended up in the boy's locker handled to show the different seasons. to complete the project. Well over 1 ,600 room. About an hour into the meeting Fork, beef, pecans, tobacco and row

-vm- Official FFA Calendars AGRICULTURE For You Or The Chapter

Here's your chance to order Off icial FFA stores, machinery dealers, classrooms, Calendars for yourself, your family and vo-ag shop, bank lobbies, library; Wallet your friends. Get some of each style of style for everyone's wallet or purse, go in these preprinted calendars to use and with thank you notes at Christmas or FFA Members Will Feed Ihe Future SUPPORT THEM NOW give away—Home and Office style for birthday, or handouts at the fair. These kitchens, workbenches, vo-ag notebooks, FFA Calendars are illustrated with vo- Information see pages 81-88 in the new milk parlor, printed message is machine shed, sewing room, ag/FFA scenes. The FFA Supply Catalog. 1985 Calendars office planner; style for the banker, Will Feed the Future, Desk FFA Members also feature the 1985 FFA promotional all the teachers, doctor, veterinarian, Support Them Now. Order as many as theme. This will help unite the chapter's county offices; Poster style for or your chapter can use. For more feed you promotional efforts of calendars, FFA Week and banquets. Please send the following: Please send the calendars I checlied. I understand they have a general imprint HOME & OFFICE @ 95

70 The National FUTURE FARMER "Juniors" Help "Seniors" The students of High School District

2 1 4-2 1 1 Horticulture program have been sponsoring horticulture therapy sessions CATALOG Of at Americana Healthcare Center. The students are bussed to the center during FUND RAISING IDEAS class time and help the elderly residents to complete such projects as corsages On How To Make and floral arrangements. The final project of the season consists of planting bedding BIG PROFITS The painting is on display at the school plants in the courtyard. for the whole community to see. The residents are encouraged to take For Your Group , Send part in the activities. When they do Coupon to: all in Chariton crops lead County's participate they experience a sense of THE FUND RAISING COMPANY hillside field production. The represents achievement because of their own results. R.R.1 B0X37A HULL, IOWA 51239-9799 the importance of conservation. The with the elderly people Working exposes Or Call Toil-Free: FFA rnember stands center stage and the students to the occupation of horti- 1-800-B31-8541 Ext. 506 was planned to hold the center of atten- culture therapy and gives them valuable IN IOWA 1-800-352-5000 tion. Remnants of our past as well as experience if they plan a career in the OTHERS CALL COLLECT 0-712-439-1496 present are scattered throughout the field. Send Coupon To Receive FREE design to help tie the units together. Not only the students benefit from the "Catalog of Fund Raising Ideas" After the design was perfected and time spent with the residents, but the transferred to masonite panels, the long residents themselves enjoy having young Complete Organization Name project of painting began. Because of its people around and having the opportun- rapid drying time and durability, acrylic ity to create arrangements themselves. paint was used and protected with a coat (Kelly Haman, Reporter) • • • of varnish. The artists were Debbie Apt. No. Brand, Darin Byrd, plus Brian Littleton A Payoff in Points and Greg Neidholdt in FFA. • • • City Zip The Oshkosh West, Wisconsin, FFA took the students that worked beyond Improvement Above All Telephone Amount Needed the call of duty in the FFA on an The Colorado Association selected educational field trip this summer. the Wiggins FFA Chapter for the most The criteria used to select them was a improved chapter award. The chapter's point system which listed all of the improvement projects and supplemen- activities possible in the FFA. NOW! Get in on the PROFITS in tary farm practices for students have The chapter will award one cent per SIMALL ENGINE REPAIR 0». increased over the past year. Participa- point a trip to the Chicago toward Work part time, full time — tion at the state FFA convention and Museum of Science and Industry. right at home — we help you every step of the way. leadership training conferences have Each member must have an SOE No doubt about it ... as a small engines doubled. • • pro. you can cash in on the huge de- project and record book to go. • ^ The chapter also shows an improve- mand for qualified men in one of America's fastest growing industries. ment in judging contests and the number You'll be able to command top hourly rates" A Family History Tree ' of proficiency applications submitted. of from $10.00 to $15.00 per hour — and The FFA story of a Pennsylvania that's just for labor. The Wiggins Chapter received a $250 Plenty ol business waiting for qualilied men. family to a close the of check and a plaque at Colorado State drew on evening 65,000,000 Small Engines Are In Use Today! the of That's the official count from the Engine Service Assn.. and Convention held in Durango at the Fort annual parent-member banquet one-million new engines are being built each month. With the Cowanesque, Pennsylvania, Chapter. Lewis College in June. (R. Brent Young, fflley-Belsaw training, you can soon have the skill and Advisor) • • • It all began in the fall of 1968 when l

October-November, 1984 n HAMPSHIRES... FFAlirAfHair (Pick up ACTIOMrom Page 71) Sfarl youf project with the breed that has a bright future. Write for information.

Jitti Cretcher, Secretary parliamentary procedure and public American Farmer degree. This was a The American Hampshire Sheep Assn. speaking, which eventually led to being first for the Cowanesque Chapter. P.O. Box 345-f, Ashland, MO 65010 (314) 657-9012 FFA elected to the office of president of the FFA was not really foreign to the RAISE RABBITS student council. He could always be Ackley family, as Roy was actively found at the dairy shows with his brother, involved himself in FFA during his high Pul a high protein meat on your table from your back yard at nominal cost. Profitable as a Business or a team which proved rather difficult to school career. Roy's father was an agri- Retirement Hobby as well as interesting for young or old alike, —GET THE FACTS— 64 page illuslraled beat. He too was named the regional cultural teacher and an FFA advisor in booklet describing many breeds Housing, Breeding, Feeding Care. SI. 00. Lei the National Association Star Farmer in quest of the state degree. the local high school. FFA, then, has of Rabbit Breeders help you start right. Mike and Phil continued their FFA been a part of the Ackleys for three AMERICAN RABBIT ASSOCIATION. INC. beyond high school generations. • • • Box 426-T26. Bloominglon. ILL, 61701 membership and continually showed a fine set of registered Holsteins. Then in the fall of 1976 the They Got The Beef Horses in Action youngest of the three Ackleys arrived to The Auburn, Alabama, University begin his vo-ag/ FFA career. Steven was FFA Chapter has recently acquired the FREE no stranger to the program and started famous Gelbvieh bull Super Star. The off very strongly. He was named the FFA chapter is now in the process of 11" X 9" flip Star Greenhand and followed the next making the public aware that they are chart of 12 year by being awarded the Star Chapter the only FFA chapter who owns a color photos h^ Farmer honors. Steven had an excellent showing Morgan horses nationally famous imported herd sire. The animal was donated to the pro- in action. Send 81 for gram by Super Star Cattle Company of postage and handling to: Edmond, Oklahoma. The bull was the AMHA, Box 1, West- moreland, NY 13490. sire of the 1981 national grand champion Quantities are limited. bull. Monies generated by the sale of semen from Super Star will be used for the education of future teachers of vocational COMPUTERIZED TABULATION agriculture. Anyone interested could con- This program takes scored cards, tabulotes them, and prints o tact Advisor Dr. James Drake at the summary of scores for each school in just o few minutes. It Che- will also save the scores for later reviewing ond much more. university at (205) 826-5320. (Jerry printer, supplied on ForoTRSSO lll/IV with 48k, I drive, and a naiill. President. Auhurn University Colle- Model III TRSDOS disk for $30 00. contoct: Farren Constable. giate Chapter) • • • Haymaker Hall, Room 440, K S U, Manhattan, Kansos 66506 A long FFA history is centered around the Ackley family from left to right: A Bright Spot In the Room Phillip, June, Michael, Roy and Steven. Ttie knife lor GUARANTEED hunting, fish- The Imperial, Nebraska, Chapter de- ing and all " around use Mir- cided their vo-ag department needed a 10 YEARS! ror polished, im- rrted stainless steel show cow and production cow and facelift this past year. The room was a honed to a razor's edge Rugged Opens with together they earned many recognitions. blue-green color and gave the room a tlick of finger Locks Into po- $1.96 sition Blade will not close when It in use Press button in tiandle to Steve earned the state degree in 1980 dark appearance. was decided to paint

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72 The National FITVRE FARMER d. Keep chain sharp and the chain properly tensioned. 2. Never operate the saw when you See How are fatigued. Easy Your 3. Wear close-fitting clothing and Group Can protective equipment for the head, ears, Raise eyes, feet and hands. 4. Switch off the engine before fueling, servicing or transporting the saw. To «14022to*2,604^ help prevent a fire, restart the chain saw Selling Fuller's at least ten feet from the fueling area. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby. The finished mural is entitled "Dawn of a 5. Be sure that the chain stops moving New Day." IVIembers pictured with the Everyone needs Christmas Gift Wrap. Prepared for when the throttle control trigger is re- groups lil• members Brian Haarberg, Carl Bartels, ACTION Susan Tomky and Doug Eskew. The • Chaptermembers wear FFA caps mural adds much to the attractiveness of and sit together at football games. FALL & WINTER our classroom and is very fitting for a Support the home team. vo-ag department. (Randy Vlasin, • Fix the bleachers at the ball park. '84 CATALOG Advisor) • • • • Clean the statue in the town square. • How about a new FFA pocket Order Your Copy Today. I knife for yourself? • Have you talked anybody into FACTS FOR ACTION 360 page COLOR catalog with the signing up for vo-ag and FFA? A Chain Saw's Chain BEST selection of parts and acces- • Organize a soccer game at noon. Travels 80 Feet Per Second sories for light trucks, vans and au- • Carve a jack-o-lantern for senior tomobiles. Thousands of items at With 133,000 chain saw accidents citizens. reported in 1982 LOW, LOW PRICES. by the Consumer Pro- • Gather bittersweet, Indian corn, duct Safety Commission, it's clear that gourds and the like to sell (or give Send $3.00 U.S. this powerful tool cannot be taken for away). granted. funds to: • Learn to operate the video equip- No matter how sophisticated the safety ment. features on the chain V.A.M. saw, injuries can • Organize wildlife refuge spots. still result P.O. 3359 from improper use. "Studies • Collect unwanted or excess garden BOX tell us that error is operator responsible vegetables for the needy. SHAWNEE, KS for a substantial percentage of accidents," • Invite the student council president 66203 says Jack Ehlen, product safety director, to an FFA meeting. McCulloch Corporation. Therefore, he Cost of Catalog Reimbursed On First Order • Subscribe to The National suggests to operators to read the owner's FUTURE FARMER for the manual and to be aware We invite you to visit our store of these precau- mayor. tions: while in Kansas City at the FFA • Offer to host an ag program for I. Beware of kickback! Hold saw Convention. We will be open local civic groups. With emphasis firmly in both hands with thumbs 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. for your and on where your food comes from. fingers encircling the handles. Stand convenience, or call 913-362-9709 • Buy a bushel of apples for the with weight evenly distributed between (In KS), 1-800-346-3026, ext. 484 principal's office. both feet and watch what is being cut. (Out of State). • Barter or trade members skills for a. Don't over reach. 5441 Merriam Drive jobs needed by chapter, i.e., mow- b. Don't let the chain at the tip of the ing yard for a fancy decorated Merriam, KS 66203 guide bar contact any obstruction. cake to serve. A division of Butcli's Picli-up c. Cut at high speeds. & Car Stuff

October-November, 1984 73 " "

The

" A city kid, watching a cow being "It's a confusing world, said a high All the pigeons had left the nest and milked asked, "IVhy does the cow look school senior. learned to fly but one. The mother so happy?" "Halfofthe adults tell me tofind myself pigeon said, "Son, ifyou don't learn to " "She's a baseball fan, " the farmer and the other half tells me to get lost. fly. Til tow you along behind me." explained. "She likes the yanks!" Bobbie Mae Cooley "No, " said the little pigeon. "Til learn. Delvin Huber Bowen, Illinois I don't want to be pigeon-towed!" East Earl, Pennsylvania A sign in the flower shop read: "Say it Karen Butterworth Mr. Baird paced back and forth in the with flowers." A man entered and or- Crosby, Texas doctor's waiting room while his wife dered a single red rose. "Only oneT' Phil; "Aren't you warm doing your underwent a complete physical examina- asked the florist. painting all bundled up like that?" " tion inside. Finally the doctor opened "Only one, " the man said. "Tm a man of Bill: Well, it says right on the can to the door and summoned the husband. few words." be sure and put on three coats." " To be perfectly blunt, Mr. Baird, " he Bobbie Mae Cooley Lara Knoop said gravely, "/ don't like the looks of Bowen, Illinois Winlock, Washington " your wife. Kay: "What did the police do when Two cowboys were talking. One said, "Neither do I, " Baird responded, "but " 200 hares escapedfrom the rabbitfarm?" "My name is Tex. she's great with the kids. Jay: "I don't know." The other one questioned, "Are you Jennifer Jefferson Kay: "They combed the area." from Texas?" Roseburg, Oregon Jonathan Stanger One said: "Nope, Tmfrom Louisiana, Christiansburg, Virginia but who wants to be called Louise?" Man: " What do you chargeforfuneral S. P. Tomaszewski notices in your paper?" Houston, Texas Clerk: "Two dollars an inch." Once there was a fat lady who had to Man: "Holy mackeral! My uncle was do certain exercises. One day when she six feet, four!" went to see her doctor, she said, "Doctor, Chris Schrecongost doctor, I touched the floor without Freeport, Pennsylvania bending my knees." Sign in a music store window: "Guitars Her doctor asked, "How'dyou do it?" for sale, cheap. No strings attached. She answered, "Ifell out of bed!" Tony Rosby Peggy Hemstreet Harmony, North Carolina Albion, Pensylvania

Charlie, the Greenhand

" There are two books that influence me the most, my mother's cookbook and my father's checkbook.

You know how fat she is? Well, when she put a yellow dress on, 32 kids tried to board her. Jose Salinas Roma, Texas

Q: What's the cause of dry skin? A: Towels. Denise Boyett IVebster, Florida One night there were two bloodhounds lying in front of an old shack where some teenagers were having a party. The teenagers were listening to a record player, jumping around on the porch and in the yard. One of the bloodhounds raised up and said, "You know, if we acted like that, they'd worm us!" Lisa Strother "Do you have something in 'John Deere' green? Pitkin, Louisiana

The National FLI TL'RE F.4 RMER will pay SS. 00 for each joke selectedfor publication on this page. Jokes must be addressed to The Sational Ft Tl RE FA R.\fER. NOTICE: P.O. Box ISlbO, Alexandria. Virginia. In case of duplication, payment will be for the first one received. Contributions cannot be acknowledged or returned.

74 The National FUTURE FARMER I mnik I

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