»1

* .' -._;*>; wnm

r- A?" P

in i J*.

MiilTii

VOLUME LXXII NATIONAL FFA CONVENTION OCTOBER 1999 ings VOLUME LXXII signatu

table of contents

100% Membership States 52 Agri-Entrepreneurship Awards 11 Agriscience Fair 16 Agriscience Student Recognition Program 15 Agriscience Teacher of the Year 16 Alumni Convention 57

Excitement, anticipation and a feeling of pride was in the air as American FFA Degrees 26-35 FFA members from across the country converged at the new Band 21 home of the national FFA convention. Business 63 Career Development Events 18 Career Show & Hall of States 60-61 "FFA-Lighting Louisville" fireworks show, Up Chorus 20 pictured on the front cover, is sponsored by Fastline Committee Reports Publications. Auditing 76 Agricultural Education Trends 66 Career Success Activities 68 Chapter Activities 67 The 72nd National FFA Convention Proceedings is Communications & Public Relations 69 published by the National FFA Organization as a FFA Publications 70

record of its annual convention held in Louisville, Leadership & Personal Development 71 Marketing & Merchandising 72 Kentucky, October 27-30, 1999. Membership, Recruitment & Participation 74 Editor National FFA Convention 77 Nominating 76 Molly Avis, Indiana Partner Development 75 Associate Editors Program of Activities 73 Sara Heinert, Wyoming Convention Overview 3-7 Convention Speakers 40-41 Cara Crye, California Courtesy Corps 62 Laura Henne, Michigan Distinguished Service Citations 58 Photo Editor Extemporaneous Public Speaking Contest 14 Foundation Sponsors 58-59 Kathryn Whitaker, Indiana Honorary American FFA Degrees 54-55 Art Director H.O. Sargent Award 17 Steve Richards, Indiana International Programs 56 Chapter Awards 50-51 Photo Processor National National Officer Candidates 10 Adam Barbee, Ohio New National Officers 78 Shari Ladd, Michigan Official Delegates 64-65 PALS 56 Teresa Cole, Wyoming Prepared Public Speaking Contest 12-13 Photographers Proficiency Awards 22-25

J. Gillis Courson, Kentucky Retiring Addresses Lisa Ahrens 36-37 Sam Harrel, Alaska Abby Dougherty 48-49 Bud Kraft, Kentucky Andy Armbruster 46-47 Lightfoot Photography, Missouri Emily Buxton 44-45 Jose~ Santiago 38-39 Kelly Rogers, Minnesota James Garner 42-43 Mike Wilson, Illinois Stars Over America 8-9 Ed Zurga, Kansas Talent 19 VIP Citations 53 Billboards said it, hotel marquis

Dosted it, restaurant centerpieces

lad it and Louisvillians said it,

'Welcome to Louisville," they all echoed. "Welcome FFA!" During the week, as the 72nd National FFA Convention kicked off for the Signature first time in Louisville, attendees looked for ways to make their unique mark on the FFA-their own of Success signature of success.

welcome to Louisville The convention proved that a geographical change did not affect the excitement and enthusiasm carried by FFA members.

A silhouette of patriotism is the backdrop for National FFA Talent participants. To maintain a quality experience for members, teachers and guests, the National FFA Organization made a historical decision to move the national FFA convention from Kansas City to Louisville, after 71 years. The convention proved that a geographical change did not affect the excitement and enthusiasm carried by FFA members. The 46,918 convention attendees helped rewrite history in Louisville. An astounding number of members dressed in their official blue and gold jackets could be seen making their way through the grounds of the Kentucky Fair and Exposition

Center for the first time.

An astounding number of blue and gold jackets could be seen making their way through the grounds of the Kentucky Fair & Exposition Center during the course of the convention. Signature of Success

All but three career development events were held onsite, headliner musical concerts raised the roof in Broadbent Arena, convention sessions in Freedom Hall housed almost 17,000, the career show boasted 349 exhibitors (the largest ever) and the FFA shopping mall doubled in size! Every square foot of the Kentucky fairgrounds met an FFA member; students sent electronic postcards from computer stations, listened to ri voting convention speakers, played frisbee on the front lawn and chowed down on culinary delights.

The convention hall will come to order! In a united effort, the national officers and staff call to order another year of unforgettable memories.

Ricochet (photo at left) delighted the audience with their energy and musical talents in Broadbent Arena.

The festivities began on Wednesday evening with "FFA-Lighting Up Louisville." A spectacular fireworks display lit the Kentucky night sky just outside of the convention fairgrounds to kickoff an exciting week of competition, friendship and education. Members carried this energy with them throughout the week. They applied their industry knowledge by competing in career development events. Students interacted with business representatives and expanded their career horizons at the national agricultural career show. Louisville tour sites, like Churchill Downs and Papa John's, experienced the impact as most set record attendance numbers. The national officer team helped debut the John Deere Winston Cup NASCAR race car and the driver, Chad Little. The car was on display throughout the week of convention. I Signature of Success

UV/I IUUL DUO EMERGENCY DOOR

The school bus is on the road again! This trip takes passengers to the new, exciting destination of Louisville, Kentucky, location of the 72nd National FFA Convention.

Vans, busses, cars and planes full of wide-eyed members and guests pulled into the Kentucky fairgrounds not knowing what to expect. But, Louisville hospitality volunteers stood ready to greet convention attendees. With maps in hand, students and advisors turned to these hospitality volunteers for advice, directions and guidance on the new city,

new facilities, new restaurants and new activities in which to participate. Each volunteer hoped to make the transition to Louisville an easy one by providing useful information about local restaurants, hotels and educational tours.

As members ventured into the Kentucky Fair and Exposition Center for the first time, they experienced an overwhelming sense of pride. Some were attending the national

FFA convention for the first time, while others were seasoned veterans, but a feeling of belonging enveloped students as they listened to motivational speakers and national officers. The spectacular laser shows added to the excitement of convention sessions. And, band, chorus and talent selections showcased the talents of FFA members across the nation. I Signature of Success

FFA members enjoyed documenting the first national convention held in Louisville.

National officers shared messages of hope, overcoming mediocrity and reaching out to others in time of need. Through leadership workshops, FFA members learned to cultivate their own signature of success by setting goals and putting a plan of action in place. On the main arena stage, the spotlight shined on model chapters, 100% membership states, proficiency finalists, public speakers, degree candidates and others as they were recognized for strengthening

their state, their chapter, their community and themselves.

Speakers provided students with motivation

and inspiration to improve the quality of life for themselves and those around them. Emory

Austin told students, "Rarity is where leadership of the premier kind, comes from." Acclaimed actor Danny Glover challenged FFA members to continue serving others for

the benefit of the whole. Dave Roever left members teary-eyed and renewed after conveying his message of courage and hope for the future. National officers shared messages of hope, overcoming mediocrity and reaching out to others in times of need.

These students took time to relax and enjoy the warm The largest-ever national agricultural career weather on the front lawn. show gave members insight about opportunities in colleges, businesses and most

of all, the FFA. Meanwhile, the FFA shopping mall allowed members and guests to take a part of Louisville and the national FFA convention home with them. I Signature of Success

Beyond the convention sessions and activities, FFA members chose to make their mark on the Louisville community as well. More than 700 second-, third- and fourth-graders participated in a mentoring activity with FFA members. Youngsters learned about the vital role of agriculture and participated in team-build- ing and personal growth activities. State officers from around the country educated students in Jefferson County classrooms about the important role of agriculture in

everyone's lives. FFA's commitment to community also resulted in chapters

from all 50 states pairing with local schools and Kentucky Harvest to help feed Louisville for a day by collecting 15 tons of donated food.

Money rains down on the arena in celebration of the $7.3 The national FFA convention theme, million raised for FFA and agricultural education programs "FFA-Signature of Success," encouraged and scholarships. members to take the experiences and

energy gained at the convention back to

their local communities and instill a fresh perspective in their programs. While learning about the fundamentals of agriculture, members also learned about

the fundamentals of life: hard work, business management, effective communication skills, teamwork, integrity and problem-solving.

In an age where the media deliver story

after story of school shootings, this inaugural Louisville convention celebrated what's truly right with today's youth. FFA members ready and willing

to give back to local communities. FFA A desire to develop their career skills brought these FFA members to Louisville. They participated in the Meats members striving to make a positive Evaluation and Technology Career Development Event. difference in the lives of others. FFA members committed to maintaining and sustaining America's foundation-

agriculture. FFA members left the convention inspired to return to their chapters with a new purpose-to better themselves and their communities with their own signature of success. stars over america stars q With hearts racing, the eight finalists of the Stars Over America contest eagerly awaited the announcement of AMERIC their names. They would soon know the outcome of one of the most prestigious awards in the FFA. The students had already gathered years of valuable work experience, gone through rigorous rounds of interviews and inspections of record books, as well as conducted filming visits to their businesses and farming operations.

As finalists were introduced on stage, they were awarded m $1 .000. The national winners received an additional y $1 ,000. Parents of the finalists were each presented with the Honorary American FFA Degree to recognize their contributions to their children's success.

American Star Farmer Michael Springer and Stars Over America Film is by the Service Agency, United sponsored Farm American Star in Agribusiness Jay Harris proudly States Department of Agriculture and the General Fund of the National FFA display their hard-earned awards. Foundation. Cash awards for the national finalists and winners are sponsored by the executive sponsors of the National FFA Foundation.

Jay Harris, 22 Michael Springer, 21 Alexander, Illinois Independence, Kansas Franklin FFA Chapter Neodesha FFA Chapter Harris managed a herd of more than Over eleven years ago. Springer started a 2,100 hogs on land that his grandfather 15-calf bottle operation with the financial left him selling the property to finance support of his parents. By 1995, his calf his equipment sales operation. He herd went from 15 to 99. That same year currently sells equipment including he moved into pork production, building combines and heads, used tractors and a farrowing house and nursery and parts with sales stretching over 24 established a 36-sow herd. He purchased states and internationally. Aside from 230 acres and farm equipment to increase buying and selling equipment he the value of his operation. In cooperation designs, builds, tests and markets his with his father and grandfather, he plans own line of planters. He currently to expand the farm to 2,000 farrow-to- employs four part-time mechanics and finish sows and 6,000 acres of cropland. a truck driver.

Astonishment, excitement and disbelief were

written all over Michael Springer's face as he was named the American Star Farmer. star in agribusiness finalists

Kyle Bailey, 22 Charles Hale, 20 Jeff Weber, 21 Middlesburg, Indiana Sterling, Oklahoma Pilot Point, Texas Fairfield FFA Chapter Sterling FFA Chapter Pilot Point FFA Chapter At 14. Bailey was the youngest ever Hale started with a small cow/calf Weber acquired a small loan as a graduate of Kentucky Horseshoeing operation and one riding lawn mower. freshman to purchase equipment to School. Following a two-year During the next year, he financed a new cut and bale hay to feed his own cattle apprenticeship, he started building up tractor, loader, post driver, box blade herd. Seeing opportunity, he began his own clientele and today shoes more and welder and began custom spraying. contracting his services to fanners and than 400 horses. He reads and studies Hale is certified in Restricted Use now employes five people. In the current research reports, farrier publica- Pesticide application and is a certified future, Weber hopes to expand his tions and attends technical seminars. pipeline welder. Hale estimates business in custom and hay brokerage Bailey relies on modern technology, spraying over 35,000 acres in 1999. in North Central Texas. using video and computer equipment, Future aspirations include operating a to diagnose and treat equine lameness. full-service farm center or securing a A firm believer in community support, position with a top chemical company. he regularly speaks to children's groups on the importance of proper shoeing. amencan farmer finalists

Brad Baumgardt, 21 Justin Jordahl, 21 Erika Kenner, 21 Sleepy Eye, Minnesota Alden, Iowa Leeds, North Dakota Sleepy Eye FFA Chapter Iowa Falls-Alden FFA Chapter Leeds FFA Chapter As a freshman, Baumgardt rented 160 At 15, Jordahl secured some financial Kenner purchased her first heifer in fifth acres of land from his father producing support from his grandmother and grade with a loan from her grandfather. corn and soybeans. He then increased renovated an unoccupied hog barn at From that first heifer she expanded to a the capacity of his land to 480 acres, home. He then contracted pigs from a herd of heifers, purchased her first expanded from crops to livestock and local farmer and began finishing the Morgan horse which she trained for show purchased a semi-trailer for hauling hogs. His expansion continued with the and diversified her operation to a variety grain and livestock. In addition, he construction of four 1 ,200-head of crops. Her crops include durum, began finishing hogs, a business that confinement hog units. Jordahl, has wheat, canola, sunflowers and flax. has grown to finishing 1 ,000 head of learned the importance of maintaining She has also experimented with embryo hogs at a time. In the past year, he the health of his animals and the transfer to increase the quality of her purchased 1 66 acres and became a efficiency of his buildings, saving him herd and started advertising her cattle to partner with 40 percent ownership of money and enabling him to capitalize on familiarize herself with the promotion Baumgardt Family Farms, Inc. His his investments. His future plans include side of the industry. future plans involve expanding the operating a farrow-to-finish hog enter- family farm and marketing manure prise and farming 1 ,600 acres of land. from his swine operation as fertilizer. I national officer candidates

National Officer Candidates reception sponsored byABG, Inc.

ALABAMA: Jamie Shay Jones. Billingsley

ARKANSAS: Samantha Easley. Emerson

COLORADO: Clint Wedel. Burlington

CONNECTICUT: Erin Sepe. Woodbury

FLORIDA: Chris Vitelli. Plant City

GEORGIA: Carol Lea Spruill. Jackson County

IDAHO: Laban Molsee, Deary

ILLINOIS: Jay Hams. Franklin

INDIANA: Jodee Ruppel. Manchester

KANSAS: Leslie Small. Arkansas City

KENTUCKY: Matthew Ingram, Bath County A total of 36 candidates competed for the six national officer spots for MAINE: Nicholas McCrum, Mars Hill 1999-2000. These candidates displayed their outstanding talents, abilities and knowledge through oral and written interviews and exams. MICHIGAN: Lori Preston, Branch Area Career Center

MINNESOTA: Kara Elizabeth Ladlie. Albert Lea

MISSISSIPPI: Courtney Scoggin, Newton Municipal

Becoming a national FFA officer is a dream for MISSOURI: Travis Lathrop. Nevada thousands of FFA members. Only six outstanding MONTANA: Jason Jimmerson, Conrad are year. Thirty-six members chosen each candidates NORTH CAROLINA: Sara Lane, Bartlett Yancey earned their American FFA Degree and were chosen NEVADA: Davida RaeAnn Nash, Silver Sage as their states' one candidate for a national office. NEW HAMPSHIRE: Elizabeth Kaiser, Pinkerton Convention week kept the candidates active with a MEXICO: Marshall Baker, Texico written exam, a writing exercise and six interview NEW rounds with the nominating committee, which NEW YORK: Katie Lynn Bear, Greenville

chooses the six national officers. NORTH DAKOTA: William White III, Turtle Lake-Mercer

OHIO: Joseph Shultz, Indian Lake The suspense ended Saturday afternoon when the OKLAHOMA: Joshua Chad Brecheen, Coalgate national officer nominating committee submitted PENNSYLVANIA: Herb Hoffeditz, Conococheague their report to the convention session. The SOUTH CAROLINA: Kimberly Green, Manning convention floor erupted with enthusiasm as, one by one, the names of the new officers were announced. SOUTH DAKOTA: Tiffany Anderson, Lemmon TENNESSEE: Karen Lynn Adams, South Greene will visiting The team spend the next year, each state TEXAS: Brandon Hill, Martin as well as Japan. We praise these members for UTAH: Rodney Spencer, Morgan serving their state organizations and congratulate VIRGINIA: Johnny Davis. Atlee them on a job well done. WASHINGTON: Nathan Hahner, Liberty

WISCONSIN: Nathan Russell, Shullsburg WEST VIRGINIA: Roger Hanshaw, Clay County

WYOMING: Traci Walton, Star Valley .

entrepreneurship

Joseph Bachman of Metamora, IL, owns Larrie Faulkner of Judith Gap, MT. began Bachman's Craft Making, a business in a partnership during his freshman year that which he produces and markets five wood created the Montana Worm Farm by raising crafts including a birdhouse bench, a flat his own night crawlers for fishing. He has bench, wheelbarrow planters, butterfly since expanded to raising worms to break houses and birdhouses. He started his down compost as a source of fertilizers. business by selling to friends and neighbors. With a grant from the Alternative Resources He then expanded into flea markets and craft Energy Organization he has been able to

shows and now his work is consigned to craft purchase red wigglers for composting, offer

shows that sell his product for a commission. household and yard waste collection and solid and liquid organic fertilizers. Chris Blaser of Green Bay, WI, owns a market gardening company that produces Dustin Murphy of Opelika, AL, owns a vegetables, fruits and syrup throughout the business that supplies utility trailers to the summer months for sale at markets in the local community and surrounding areas.

Green Bay area. He plans to increase his His business has grown from 1 1 trailers due business by expanding to market outlets and to a reasonable price, a large sales volume potentially selling at farmers' markets five and advertising in farm bulletins. He keeps

Students with self-motivation, determination and days a week if an ample supply of product is detailed records, prices and other pertinent

business savvy were honored at the entreprenur- available. information on each trailer, inspects all ship awards. Sponsored by and in partnership with trailers for safety and has found it more the Kauffman Center for Entrepreneurial Cecilia Carreno of Lompoc, CA, owns economical to buy trailers in a large quantity Leadership at the Ewing Marion Kauffman Cecilia's Flowers, a business she started her to be successful. Foundation as a freshman year due to an interest in floral special project of the National FEA Foundation. purchasing poinsettias, Point, is Sponsored by and in partnership with crops. She began by David Schroeder of West NE, the Kauffman Center for Entrepreneurial caring for and selling the poinsettias to planning the start of his own business: Leadership at the Ewing Marion school employees at Christmas. Her busi- A' la Heart Meals to Go, to offer low Kauffman Foundation. ness has since expanded with knowledge of cholesterol, sodium and sugar a la carte advertising, packaging and delivery as well entrees to people with special needs Self-initiative, determination and as adding corsages, bouquets and throughout the community. Through dedication are inherent qualities arrangements to her product line. research, he concluded that quick, healthy meals are not available in his community, visibly recognized in the nine FFA Adam Hahn of Cambria, WI, owns Hahn's motivating him to test and modify recipes. members receiving an Agri- Hay Service, which provides quality grass The meals will be prepared on a pre-ordered Entrepreneurship Award. As and alfalfa hay for local area horse owners. basis and delivered to the client. entrepreneurs, these nine finalists He realized the potential for this business have successfully laid the ground- with the increasing number of ranchettes and Ryan Sweeney of Mason, MI, founded RPS the local Amish community. His customer Enterprises, a fabrication company work and set a precedent for fellow base has expanded to include the Chicago specializing in building livestock equipment. members through personal commit- Zoo, the Wisconsin Department of He began in 1997 building blocking chutes, ment of starting their own enterprise. Agriculture, the Green Lake County and now builds sheep stands, displays for For their accomplishments, the Highway Department and others due to his show cattle, calving gates and custom marketing strategies utilizing business cards, handling facilities and hog gates. He attends finalists were awarded at the fifth conventional ads and the Internet. trade shows to increase sales and has learned convention session. about marketing products, creating budgets

Tracy Hanger of Chandler, AZ, is the sole and keeping accurate financial records. Dr. Robert Strom of the Kauffman proprietor of Sequoia Crop Consulting Center for Entrepreneurial providing field scouting services to growers. Deanna Thies of Glasgow, MO. owns The Services include crop maturation, laboratory Veggie Patch, a fruit and vegetable business Leadership presented each winner analysis, insect pest management, biological that includes several specialty varieties of with a plaque and a check for control of pest and defoliation. Hanger squash, tomatoes and okra. catering to her $1 ,000. In addition, each advisor developed an extensive business and target market, the local Asian community. received a check for $500 with marketing plan that outlines her goals for the She markets her product at one of two local over the next five years. Hanger's five a week, advertises which to promote entrepreneurship company farmer markets days major selling point that sets her aside from in a local magazine and on a local radio in their chapters. The Agri- other crop consulting businesses is biological station. She has expanded into cut flowers, Entrepreneurship Education Program control perennial plant production, pumpkins and is a joint activity of the National gourds. FFA Organization, the U.S. Department of Education and the National FFA Foundation. prepared public speaking

Sponsored by FMC Corporation, Agricultural Products Group.

is anything safe to eat?

National Prepared Public Speaking Winner: Elio Chiarelli, Jr., Pennsylvania

Picture this. It is a Sunday about the salad section and night, and you and your family move on to the "real" food. Prepared public speaking national winner, Elio decide to go out for an evening The main dishes for this Chiarelli.Jr. of the HG meal. A new all-you-can-eat evening's buffet all contain Parkinson FFA Chapter in buffet restaurant recently meat. That's fine, right? Pennsylvania, impressed opened a few miles away. Just Except for a few problems that audiences with knowledge like the hundreds of other come to mind, such as a ground in his speech entitled, "Is people in your community, you beef recall in the state of Anything Safe to Eat?" decide to test the new cuisine. Washington, the listeria found Upon your arrival, you are in Oscar Mayer meats, or the

seated by fast, courteous discovery that stated one out of servers. As you look around every three chickens contains A national finalist in prepared public speaking the restaurant, you notice the salmonella. When all is said is not the only person that can recite his or her clean and sanitary environment, and done, you look down at speech word for word. Mom, dad, agricultur- which is expected from a new your empty plate and begin to establishment. After your ask yourself, "Is anything safe al instructor, the family dog and a brother or drinks are served, you are to eat?" sister heard that speech so many times they asked to help yourself to the could recite it together as a chorus. buffet. A task force of the Council for Agriculture Science The time and commitment of the speaker Hungry, you and your family Technology, a private pick up a plate and decide to organization of food science can start up to a year prior to nationals, a begin with a salad, but there are groups, estimates that each year path beginning at the local level, continuing a few problems. As you reach 6.5 to 33 million cases of through to district, state and then the final for the lettuce, you cannot help food-borne illness occur in the destination, national convention. The journey but think of last night's United States and 9,000 people shocking news report about the die. While many reported is long, but the benefits and knowledge amount of pesticide residue cases from food prepared by acquired are plentiful. found within a head of lettuce. commercial or institutional As your stomach turns, you establishments, sporadic cases The finalists dedicated countless hours of move ahead. You are now at and small outbreaks in homes research, practice and constructive criticism the condiments section of the are considered far more salad line and notice those common. If we increase the to writing and learning a six to eight minute nutritious alfalfa sprouts that awareness of food safety in the speech about an agriculturally related topic. everyone says are so good for food industry and then inform After speaking, each finalist entertained a you. However, before you consumers about how to handle five-minute question and answer period with indulge in a plate full of seed food safely, the risk can be the judges. sprouts, you remember that greatly reduced. We as a more than twenty thousand society, must realize that food

people in North America alone can make you sick, but it is contracted salmonella from nothing to fear if you simply eating contaminated alfalfa know the facts! sprouts. Finally, you forget . .

safety supply has even become global, with many dif-

ferent countries supplying food products to the United

States. We can all relate to more food being prepared and consumed away from home. The U.S. Department I of Agriculture estimates that consumers spend 43 cents of every food dollar eating out. In addition, an increasing amount of food prepared away from the

home is then packaged for later consumption, thus creating new opportunities for mishandling. Finally,

adding to the challenge, microorganisms continue to adapt and evolve, often increasing their degree of resistance.

We must accept it: American consumers are becoming What the public should under- separate from other foods, more concerned about their food and its safety. In stand is that food safety does 3. Wash working surfaces and fact, food safety has surpassed crime prevention, not rely on the producers and hands after touching any health and nutrition, environmental protection, water inspectors alone. The food products, quality, and recycling as the most important public consumers themselves have one 4. Cook foods thoroughly to an issue. Fortunately, many organizations ensure the of the largest roles in the food internal temperature of at products we consume each day are not only safe but safety circle. An area that must least 140 degrees, and also healthy. Many agencies have over a 90-year be placed under scrutiny is 5. Keep hot foods hot and history of protecting the public from unwholesome and your own kitchen. For refrigerate leftovers unsafe food so that you and your families' safety will example, what comes to mind immediately or discard. be ensured. So, the next time you decide to visit the when you think of a clean new restaurant a few miles away, purchase groceries at kitchen? Shiny polished In a perfect food safety world, the nearby supermarket, or simply open your own floors? Spotless stainless steel none of the problems that I refrigerator, you should never be asking yourself, "Is sinks? Gleaming counters and have mentioned would exist, anything safe to eat?" neatly arranged cupboards? but the possibility of this

Yes, that all helps, but I am happening is remote. In fact, speaking of the truly clean the Council for Agricultural kitchens, one that relies on Science and Technology said,

more than just looks; it also "The zero risk of microbiologi-

depends on safe food cal hazards is not possible and Notes

1 Anler. John. (1999, February 29). [s anything SAFE 10 eat' FARM and DAIRY. 13.

practices. Right now, there no one method will eliminate 2 Webb. Tom. (1998. March 20). New Weapon against Salmonella. Philadelphia Inquirer, p. 21.

3 Anter 13. may be an invisible enemy all pathogens or toxins from the 4 Department of Food and Agricultural Science. ( 1999. February 2). A Universal Concern. [On-

line], Available: htlp://www foodsci unl.edu/foodsafety/iDdexaltml. ready to strike in your home. food chain." Further, the 5 Nebraska Health and Human Services System Department of Services. (1999. January 15). Can That enemy is called bacteria council's report stresses what Your Kitchen Pass the Food Safety Test? [On-line), Available; http://www.nalusda.gov/fnic.html. 6 United States Public Health and Services ( 1999. January 15). Food Safety Guidelines. [On- and it can be very harmful or food safety and public health line], Available: http://fightbac.org/probIein/ushealth/indexJitml. 7 The Environmental Health Department of Algoma Health. (1999 January 15). The Panhandler.

officials have already ; even deadly. Even though [On-line |. Available: h(tp://www.geocitics.com/RainForest 124f,/ 8 Department of Food and Agricultural Science. (1999, April 20). Food Facts. [On-line]. recognized, that everyone in the consumers cannot see, smell or Available: http://www.foodsci.unl.edu/foodsalety facts/index.html. 9 Webb 22. taste this bacteria, millions of food system, from producers to 10 United States Public Health and Services. (1999 March 15). Food Safety Guidelines. [On- strands can be invading food people who prepared the line], Available: http://www fighthack.org/problem/ushealth/index.html. 11 Anter 14. products, kitchen surfaces, products, must be observant in Bibliography Anter, John. (1999. February 29). Is anything SAFE to eat? FARM and DAIRY. 13. knives and other utensils. controlling food hazards. Begin fight against E.coli at the farm. (1999. March 4). FARM and DAIRY, 22. A problem occurs when Blitt, Peggy (1997. March 10). There will be a growing emphasis on food safety. Hoard's Fortunately, consumers have Dairyman. 167. Department of Food and Agricultural Science. (1999. April 29). Food Facts. [On-line], the power to fight bacteria and consumers do not always take Available: http://www.foodsci.unl edu/foodsalely facts/index.html keep foods safe. A few of the the time to wash hands and Environmental Health Department of Algoma Health Unit. (1999 January 15). The Panhandler. [On-line], Available: http://www.gcocilics.com/RainForest/1246/. recommended ways to ensure utensils or thaw meat properly. Hillgreen, Sonja. (1997. January). We gotta tell our story Farm Journal. 56. Klintberg, Patricia. (1998. August). Food is cleaner than you think Farm Journal. 16 - 17. safe food include: Emerging pathogens are Nebraska Health and Human Services System Department of Services. (1999. January 15). Can Pass Food Available: http://www.nalusda.gov/fnic.html. demanding greater food safety Your Kitchen The Safety Test. [On-line], United States Department of Agriculture. (1997). Office of Communication. Agricultural Facts book 1997. Chapter 9 Washington: GPO. 1 Refrigerate or freeze food at vigilance than was required in United States Public Health and Services. (1999, January 15). Food Safety Guidelines. [On- or below 40 degrees, previous generations. To line], Available: http://l1ghtbac.org/problcm/iishcalth/index.html.

2. Keep raw meat and poultry expand the problem, the food Webb, Tom. (1999, March 20). New Weapon against Salmonella. Philadelphia Inquirer, p. 21 prepared public speaking The ability to think quickly on their feet, Robyn Sites of Oklahoma attain a wealth of knowledge on various pleased the agriculturally related topics and audience with her quick remarkable speaking skills, are prime thinking and characteristics for the extemporaneous oration abilities as she walked public speaking participants. away with the

title of national extemporaneous This year's finalists possessed all of these public speaking traits and traveled far to compete here in winner.

Louisville for the national title. Each contestant was given 30 minutes to prepare a four to six minute speech on a randomly drawn agriculture topic.

National Extemporaneous Public Speaking Winner: Robyn Sites, Oklahoma

Sponsored by American Farm Bureau Federation extemporaneous public speaking

into first The topic that I have chosen today is the effect of placed a tomato. The genetical- Just as we remember the touching stories labeling foods concerning GMO's and points of ly modified crop, introduced by in the early 1990's of a family having to

origin. In his speeches and on his web site, the Monsanto, was the Flavor Saver Tomato. leave their home because the industry Prince of Wales declares he would never eat the It hit store shelves almost five years ago where they worked was being shut down. today. In 25 percent corn, industry being in stuff and would not allow it to be grown on his 1998. of 38 The cotton was reduced land. Former Beatle Paul McCartney, when he percent of soybeans and 45 percent of the United States because of consumers in the States genetical- clothes countries. learned that traces of it could be found in his late cotton United was buying from other

wife Lynda's vegetarian food line, reacted with the ly modified. Everything from soft drinks "The touch, the feel of cotton" spurred same fear and revulsion, as do most Britons. He to the cereal you eat for breakfast con- the United States to support their nation. ordered that the offending ingredient be removed tains corn or soybeans that are genetical- We are hoping the same thing will hap- immediately. ly modified organisms. pen when we begin to label genetically modified organisms.

British tabloids now provide an advice column Monsanto, who is the leader of genetical- on how to avoid feeding the stuff to your pets. ly modified organisms, or GMO's, says The United States has always been more are headed into a green revolution. up-to-date on the technology, because And, vandalism often occurs in the fields where it we the States is grown. Indeed, not only in Britain, but Already, GMO's have reduced the cost of they believe that United throughout Europe, widespread resistance has production for our farmers and improved Department of Agriculture, the Food and occurred to any imported food-an action that could our yields. Fanners no longer have to Drug Administration, have the right tech- provoke a major trade war with the United States. worry about as much pesticides and her- nology in order to look at these crops bicides, because these plants already con- and determine if they are affecting our are healthy for However, if you live on this side of the pond, you tain the nutrients enabled to avoid apply- environment and human may be dimly aware of what the British tabloids ing more pesticides. consumption. The European Union has a refer to as "Franken-food" or genetically more resistant side, because they have modified organisms. And, chances are, that even However, widespread criticism has just faced the "mad cow" disease and you today may have had some for breakfast or have occurred in the United States and lysteria. some for lunch, and definitely will have some for throughout the European Union, ranging rule in agriculture is, dinner. A major revolution has occurred in the from human health, environmental The number one American food supply. For many years, due to issues, trade sanctions and whether "The consumer is always right." The technology, we have been able to cross trace from genetically modified organisms should second rule is, if you don't believe the again. plants to make them higher quality and provide be labeled also with their point of origin. first rule, you'd better look The more food value. However, due to gene splicing, According to the United States consumer determines what is being used. we are now able to take a gene from one organism Department of Agriculture, the U.S. will Genetically modified organisms must be begin long-term studies of genetically looked at and determined if they are safe and place it into another.

modified organisms, because the for human consumption. I believe this with not only Therefore, a gene from a cat could be placed into a European Union has now passed a de issue should be met open dog, or a gene from a sole bacterium could be facto moratorium on all imported GMO arms but, with at least, an open mind. crops. Thank you. agriscience I student recognition program

national finalists:

Dustin McDonald

Gait FFA Chapter, Acampo. CA Advisor: Cheryl Reece

Jacob Rudnick

Kern Valley FFA Chapter, Onyx. CA Advisor: Gerald Wenstrand

William Dukes

Lake Butler Sr. Chapter, FFA Shaundra Schaff. agriscience student of the year, is congratulated by her

Lake Butler, FL agriculture instructor as finalist Paul Wichmann of Minnesota looks on. Advisors: Tom Williams, Charlotte Emerson & David Harris I Carl Clark Sponsored by Monsanto and the National Foundation General Fund Algona FFA Chapter, Algona, IA FFA Advisor: Brad Greiman

Paul Wichmann Shaundra Schaff, of Absarokee, Montana, was Pelican Rapids FFA Chapter. Dent. MN honored as national winner in the FFA Agriscience Advisor: Bill Januszewski Student Recognition Program. Schaff "s project was Shaundra Schaff entitled "Biological Control of Euphorbia esula a

Absarokee FFA Chapter, Fishtail. MT Noxious Weed." The purpose of Schaff s study was Advisor: Tim Zumbrun to investigate biological controls of leafy spurge Brock Howell and the various delivery systems to administer the Prosser FFA Chapter, Prosser, WA control. Advisors: Stewart Padelford, Todd Dezzellum & Rick Adams Schaff received $5,000 in cash scholarships and a Little Jeana plaque for her achievements. Schaff is a member of Sumner FFA Chapter, Sumner. WA the Absarokee FFA Chapter and is advised by Tim Advisors: Greg Pile & Rusty Finch Zumbrun.

This year's national runner-up was Paul Wichmann Mfim of Dent, Minnesota. His project involved analyzing methods of soil aerification on golf courses to t - *t ** ml relieve soil compaction and bulk density while it -'fir —J increasing water infiltration and encouraging root

development. Wichmann received $3,000 in cash

scholarships and a plaque. Wichmann is a member

of the Pelican Rapids FFA Chapter and is advised by Bill Januszewski.

Hi ."ST" 11

Runner-up, Paul Wichmann is congratulated by Abby Dougherty. He analyzed methods of soil aerification for the competition. teacher of the year

Sponsored by Ford Motor Company Fund and Sponsored by Ford Motor Company Fund and Potash Corporation of Saskatchewan Inc. Caterpillar Agricultural Products Inc. agriscience teacher of the year agriscience fair

National Winner: The Agriscience Fair allowed students to compete in

Stacy Byrd, Eagle's Landing FFA Chapter, McDonough, GA science-based projects in four divisions: division I (7-9th

Dr. Ralph Lynch, Principal grade), division II (10-12th grade), division III (team, 7-9th National Finalists: grade) and division IV (team, 10-12th grade). Each winning Robert Actis, Sierra FFA Chapter, Tollhouse. CA participant receives either a cash award or scholarship. All Mr. Doug Jones, Principal division winners are presented their award on the main arena Mary Parton. Kennedy FFA Chapter, North Miami Beach, FL stage during national convention sessions. The categories in Ms. Kay Mikulas, Principal each division are: Biochemistry/Microbiology/Food Science, Brian Hendrickson Montello FFA Chapter, Montello, WI Mr. James Halberg, Principal Botany, Engineering, Environmental Science and Zoology. The Agriscience Fair allows students to compete in Stacy Byrd beams with excitement science-based projects in four divisions. Each winning after being named, participant receives either an award or a scholarship. Agriscience Teacher The categories in each division include of the Year. Byrd, a Biochemistry/Microbiology/Food Science, Botany, Georgia instructor, Engineering, Environmental Science and Zoology. is congratulated by Abby Dougherty.

WINNERS INCLUDE: Category: Biochemistry/Microbiology/Food Science

Division I: Greg Striemer, Lake Park Audobon FFA Chapter. Stacy Byrd's ingenious approach to teaching modern Minnesota technology received national recognition at the 1999 Division II: Todd Wilt, Jefferson FFA Chapter, West Virginia National FFA Convention with the honor of Agriscience Division IV: Debra Smith and Lisa Sanderson, Sumner FFA Chapter, Washington Teacher of the Year. Byrd, agriscience educator and FFA advisor at Eagle's Landing High School in East Point, Category: Botany Georgia, earned a $1 ,500 cash award and a plague Division I: Tony Heldorfer, North Kossuth FFA Chapter, Iowa Division II Paul Wichmann, Pelican Rapids FFA Chapter, recognizing her exemplary teaching skills. Byrd's Minnesota and endless desire to implement high-tech, commitment Division III: Brian Collins and Jacob Gordon, Burlington FFA diversified agriscience curriculum in her former high Chapter, Oklahoma Division IV: Molly Klassen and Louie Larson, Benson FFA Chapter, school earned her the opportunity to design and build a Minnesota new program and facility at Eagle's Landing. Category: Engineering

Division I: Ken Smith, Fallbrook FFA Chapter, California Byrd's agriscience program includes instruction in small Division II: Grant Streimer, Lake Park Audobon FFA Chapter. animal care, aquaculture, animal anatomy, physiology and Minnesota water, chemistry, horticulture, food science, entomology Division III: Eric Davis and Steven Lay, Judson FFA Chapter, Texas Division IV: Elaine Pearson and Michelle Griffith, Sumner FFA and general sciences. Since Byrd's arrival, Eagle's Chapter, Washington Landing FFA membership has increased to 130, and administrators have demonstrated their support by Category: Environmental Science

Division I: Bryan Tomm, Delavan FFA Chapter, Illinois announcing their intention to place agriscience programs Division II: Brooke Findley, West Central FFA Chapter, Iowa in three other county high schools. Division III: Valerie Smythe and Erick Carlson, Middletown FFA Chapter, Delaware Division IV: Jim Self and Emily Robertson, Childress FFA The Agriscience Teacher of the Year program recognizes Chapter, Texas outstanding agricultural education instructors who emphasize agriscience technology in their curricula Category: Zoology

Division I: Karese Metzler, Fallbrook FFA Chapter, California through programs in biological, environmental and Division II: Nicole Allen, Lake Crystal FFA Chapter, Minnesota agribusiness technologies, and engineering sciences. Division III: Maria Chauncey and Danielle Kertzman, Rapid City FFA Chapter, South Dakota Division IV: Jessica Geistweidt and Jason Potthoff H. •j Isargent awards

Sponsored by Merial -O. Sargent non-member

National Recipients: ARIZONA: James A. Knight, Associate Professor of Agriculture Education, Tucson

FLORIDA: Eva Griffin, Parent Educator, Malone

The H.O. Sargent Award is given to individuals who exemplify creating diversity. Back Row: David Frazier, Snyder David Frazier, Eva Griffin, James Knight, Graze Page, Jessica Skinner, Angela Rose Guidry TEXAS: C. and Jane Calloway of Merial sponsors. Front Row: Amanda Dahkhoff. H.O. Sargent Dr. H.O. Sargent was a pioneer in founding New Farmers of member America, an organization for African-American students that merged with the FFA in 1965. Sargent's efforts began in 1928 with the National Finalists: creation of the New Farmers of Virginia. The idea spread to other INDIANA: Angela R. Guidry. Triton southern states, prompting the birth of the New Farmers of America Central FFA, Fairland in 1931. MINNESOTA: Amanda Dahlhoff, Murray County Central, Slayton The H.O. Sargent award carries the dream of creating new opportunities in premier leadership, personal growth and career NORTH CAROLINA: Jessica Skinner, success in agriculture. In 1995, the organization began to honor both South Rowan FFA, China Grove members and adults across the country who work to promote diversity in agricultural education and the FFA. TENNESSEE: Grace E. Page, Dyer County FFA, Newbern This year's student winner was Jessica Skinner of the South Rowan FFA Chapter in China Grove, North Carolina Skinner organized a tutoring program for students with limited English speaking skills, called English for Students of Other Languages (ESOL). More than 25 volunteers have committed one hour each week to work with these students. The program has prompted the high school principal to start a similar program.

Adult recipients, Dr. James Knight, Eva Griffin and David Frazier received a plaque and national recognition during the session. Knight, of Tucson, Arizona, has directed or co-directed a dozen projects on diversified recruitment and retention of students in non-traditional areas. Griffin, of Malone, Florida, has helped increase minority enrollment in the FFA chapter by four times and Jessica Skinner shows her excitement after being named the stu- expanded the chapter's membership as a whole. As the Snyder FFA dent H.O. Sargent award winner. Chapter Advisor and agriculture teacher in New Mexico, David Frazier helped develop programs to involve minority, at-risk and special-needs students in his FFA chapter. ^ development

Years of study, training and Dairy Foods Horse Evaluation Sponsored by Dairy Famers of America, Sponsored by DaimlerChrysler practice paid off for the Corporation Fund-Dodge Trucks; and Inc., and Dairy Management, Inc. winners of the National Career Manna Pro Corporation, "The Calf Manna* Winning Team: LaVernia FFA Company" Development Events. Teams Chapter. LaVernia. Texas Winning Team: Arroyo Grande from across the United States High Individual: Rebecca FFA Chapter, Arroyo Grande. competed for top honors in Reeves. LaVernia FFA Chapter, Calif. LaVernia, Texas event areas from forestry to High Individual: Alaina agricultural mechanics. McBride. Arroyo Grande FFA Environment and Natural Participants evaluated, Chapter, Arroyo Grande, Calif. Resources identified, analyzed, tasted, Sponsored by Michelin North America, Livestock Evaluation sniffed, repaired and Inc., and Mississippi Chemical Corporation Sponsored by Purina Mills, Inc. calculated-all in hopes of Winning Team: South Rowan Winning Team: Crater FFA achieving top honors. FFA Chapter, China Grove, N.C. Chapter, Central Point, Ore. High Individual: Brent England. High Individual: Julie Miles, The results of each event were Crossville FFA Chapter. Bear River FFA Chapter, Grass announced at sponsor-hosted Crossville, Tenn. Valley, Calif. award banquets at the end of the week. During Saturday Extemporaneous Public Speaking Marketing Plan Sponsored by Rhone-Poulenc Ag afternoon's session, the high Sponsored by American Farm Bureau Federation Company team and individuals took the High Individual: Robyn Sites, Winning Team: Battle Lake FFA stage to receive recognition for Mountain View-Gotebo FFA Chapter, Battle Lake, Minn. their achievements. Chapter, Mountain View, Okla. Meats Evaluation and Technology Farm Business Management Sponsored by Excel Corporation; Hormel Foods Corporation; and Oscar Mayer Agricultural Issues Forum Sponsored by John Deere Division, Kraft Foods, Inc Sponsored by Elanco Animal Health, A Winning Team: Vale FFA Clovis Division of Eli Lilly and Company Winning Team: FFA Chapter. Vale, Ore. Winning Team: Ritzville FFA Chapter, Clovis, Calif. High Individual: Chris Culver, Chapter. Ritzville. Wash. High Individual: Jeremy Uhrig, Fruitland FFA Chapter, Fruitland. Clovis FFA Chapter, Clovis, Calif. Idaho Agricultural Mechanics Sponsored by Bndgestone/Firestone Trust Nursery/Landscape Floriculture Fund and Firestone Ag Tire Division Sponsored by Rhone-Poulenc Ag Sponsored by American Floral Company; Kubota Tractor Corporation; Winning Team: Shelby ville FFA Endowment, Ball Horticultural Company, Valent USACorporaton, Environmental Chapter, Shelbyville. Mo. The Scotts Company/Ortho Business Industries. Inc.; and American Nursery & High Individual: Colleen Group, and Sun Company Landscape Association Griswold, Shelbyville FFA Winning Team: Eastern Randolf Winning Team: Chatham FFA Chapter, Shelbyville. Mo. FFA Chapter, Ramseur. N.C. Chapter, Bear Creek, N.C. High Individual: Holly Somers, High Individual: Ryan Pulman, Agricultural Sales Stevens Point FFA Chapter, Southwest Star FFA Chapter, Sponsored by Asgrow Seed Company Stevens Point, Wis. Okabena, Minn. Winning Team: Newburg FFA Chapter. Newburg, Mo. Food Science and Technology Parliamentary Procedure High Individual: Darcy Vial, Sponsored by Kellogg Company Sponsored by Novartis Crop Protection, Newburg FFA Chapter, Newburg, Winning Team: Clear Lake FFA Inc Mo. Chapter. Houston, Texas Winning Team: Troy FFA High Individual: Julia Goshorn, Chapter, Troy, Mo. Creed Speaking Clear Lake FFA Chapter. Houston, Sponsored by Papa Johns International, Texas Poultry Evaluation

Inc. Sponsored by Rhone-Poulenc Animal Nutrition and Tyson Foods. Inc. High Individual: Michael Van Forestry Winning Team: Riesel FFA Winkle, Nettleton FFA Chapter, Sponsored by Champion International Riesel, Nettleton, Ark. Corporation, International Paper, and Chapter, Texas Schrade Cutlery High Individual: Brandon Cope, Winning Team: Pocahontas FFA Riesel Chapter, Riesel, Texas Dairy Cattle Evaluation FFA W.Va. Sponsored by Associated Milk Producers, Chapter, Dunmore,

Inc., and Westfalia SURGE, LLC High Individual: Brandon Prepared Public Speaking Winning Team: Putnam County Johnson, Bibb County FFA Sponsored by FMC Corporation, Agricultural Products Group FFA Chapter, Eatonton, Ga. Chapter, West Blocton, Ala. High Individual: Elio Chiarelli, High Individual: Bill Dick, Jr.. H.G. Parkinson FFA Chapter. James Wood FFA chapter. McDonald, Pa. Winchester, Va. Talented FFA members from around the United States took over the 72nd National Convention with their dynamic music and amazing

skills during the talent show. Returning acts like Travis and Tony Wolf from Spencer, Wisconsin, awed

spectators by dancing on stilts. Chris Zubrick from Laingsburg, Michigan, along with his esteemed colleague Lacey Malone, wowed

audiences with a magic act. There also was a barefoot bluegrass band

from Cordoya, Alaska. In all, there were many outstanding acts of talent. national FFA talent This year, a total of 92 members Sponsored by Ford Division - Ford Motor Company performed in 45 different acts. The groups strutted their stuff 450 times ALABAMA: Sara Borchik. Ashley Jackson, Pleasant Hill; Leah by Saturday on the talent stage set up Enterprise; Jennifer Gagnon, Reid, Sweet Springs in Enterprise; Ben Henson, Enterprise; MONTANA: Gy Salvevold, Freedom Hall east wing-a new Rich Clark, Eufaula; Mitch Culbertson twist originating in Louisville. The Gissendaner. Eufaula; Henry NEBRASKA: Cody Gulbrandson, group was directed by Gary Maricle, Hughes. Eufaula; Matt Panjic. Central City; Kelli Churchill. Eufaula: Becca Sandifer. Valentine who completed his thirteenth year on Eufaula; Rish Spurlock, Eufaula; NEW MEXICO: Summer Savage, National Talent duty. Caleb Gray. Isabella; Jarrod Portales Smitherman, Isabella; Joshua NEW YORK: Levi Cahan, Smitherman. Isabella: Kevin Schuylerville Smitherman. Isabella; Sharlon NORTH CAROLINA: Amber Taylor, Isabella: Deana Berry. Red Davis. Madison; Jennifer Glenn, Bay; Devin Dotson, Red Bay; Madison; Sheeanah Lowe, Kristin Holland. Red Bay; Derek Madison; Jackie Puryear, Madison; Humphries, Red Bay; Maria Jerry Ramsey. Madison; Mattie Humphries, Red Bay; Katie James, Ramsey, Madison; Matthew Red Bay: William James, Red Bay: Roberts. Madison; Renee Shelton, Gannon Nunley. Red Bay; David Madison; Kevin Worley, Madison Stovall. Red Bay NORTH DAKOTA: Paula Walker, ALASKA: Michael Mickelson, Carrington; Jessica Kenner, Leeds Cordoya; Jason Norris, Cordoya; OHIO: John Watkins, Benjamin; Malani O'Toole, Cordoya; Angela Emily Bowman. Fairbanks; Megan Oudean. Cordoya; Annalisa Cantrell, Fairbanks; Amanda Tornfelt, Cordoya Griener, Fairbanks: Katie Mabry, ARIZONA: Crystal Gillham Fairbanks; Stacy Rausch, Fairbanks; COLORADO: Jessica Unruh, Sarah Sterling. Fairbanks Cheyenne OKLAHOMA: Jodi Davis, Elk GEORGIA: Shana Woodall, City; Danielle Jarvis, Guymon; Cherokee: Ladina Balcom, Jeff Elizabeth Kinney, Mooreland; Davis; Regina Blackshear, Jeff Kristin Johnson, Mountain View- Davis; Cameria Joyce, Jeff Davis; Gotebo; Dawn Drummonds, Stigler; Tameria Joyce. Jeff Davis; Sierra Nicole Nichols, Valliant Moss SOUTH DAKOTA: Danny Kaul. IDAHO: Sunnie Page. Cambridge; Bon Homme; Quin Peterson, Afton Hollingsworth, Preston Chamberlain ILLINOIS: Shelley Rigg, TEXAS: Eric Brunson, Chisum; Bushnell-Prairie; Jason Smith, Phillip Cato, Chisum; Jennifer Louisa-Muscatine Durksen, Chisum; Jason Dyess, Talented FFA members from around the country strutted their stuff at a MICHIGAN: Denim Allen. Chisum; Colton Wicks, Chisum talent show before Thursday night's session. Branch; Lukas Lenhart, Hopkins; WYOMING: Gayla Graves, Lacey Malone, Lainsburg; Cashmere; Jodi Burnett. Rainer Christopher Zubrick. Lainsburg; WISCONSIN: Sarah Pruessing, Kelley Rohlfing, Columbia; Nancy Big Foot; Brandon Bruder, Prairie Yates. Columbia Farm; Anthony Wolf. Spencer; MISSOURI: Christopher Dorrell, Travis Wolf, Spencer; Helen Hopke, Macon; Dawn Shrum, Macon; Spooner; Kristine Nowak, Spooner Korissa Cox, North Harrison; national FFA chorus

Not since the movie "Son in Law," has "Thank God Sponsored by Ford Division - Ford Motor Company

I'm a Country Boy" been such a big hit—that is ALABAMA: John Barnwell, NEW YORK: Brian Hamilton, Billingsley Cuba-Rushford; Matthew Hobart, until it came from the lips of the men on the CALIFORNIA: Becky Roland, Greenville; Carrie Marlow, National FFA Chorus. The chorus also hit home El Capitan Chateaugay with a stirring rendition of "America the Beautiful" CONNECTICUT: Teri NORTH CAROLINA: Joshua Underhill. Rockville Davenport. Plymouth High; and a riveting performance of the chorus' favorite IDAHO: Jared Martin, Parma Lindsay Rogers, Jamse Kenon song, "Ease on Down." ILLINOIS: Jonathon Hampton, NORTH DAKOTA: Ashlie Chicago Ag. Science; Jade Chase, Hebron; Kristi Uglem, Hornbaker, Northwestern; Northwood The chorus was composed of 101 of the most Christina Merriman, Bluffs; OHIO: Kara Fent, Parkway; Timothy Reif, Carrollton; Brad Kylee Fent, Parkway; Mary talented vocalists in the nation who dedicated many Senffner, Central of Clifton; Harris, Oak Harbor; Megan grueling hours of practice for the long-awaited Kylee Varnold, Spoom River Scholl, Alexander Valley; Sarah Zeien, Carthage OKLAHOMA: JuliAnne convention sessions. Powerful performances and INDIANA; Justin Hill, Rossville Barker, Waynoka; Lauren talented solo performers made the chorus a joy for IOWA: Monica Ehrhardt, Branscum, Moore; Aaron Waukon; Andrew Gray, Decorah; Chaloner, Hinton; Christopher listeners. It took almost three weeks to choose these Karl Groszkruger, Hampton- Coons, Braman; Jason Frantz, students from nearly 500 applications. The Tallcorn; Joshua Heard, Fremont- Balko; Colte Julian, Fletcher; Mills; Tammy Hoffman, Battle Rebecca Nida. Tonkawa; Kelly phenomenal chorus was dynamic and full of life. Creek; Katie Larson, South Quattlebaum, Leedey; James Hamilton; Lacey Schmitt, Roller. Clinton; John Shelley, Rockford; Tyler Smith. Fairview; Andrea Springer, The group worked with new director, Patti LaJoye, Humboldt; Melynda Soma, South Guthrie; Devin Tebow, Deer and her assistant Steve Bowen, both from Michigan. Hamilton; Carl Stortz, Decorah Creek-Lamont KANSAS: Adam Engelman, OREGON: Analicia Santos. Altoona-Midway; Jason Jones, Glide Atwood; Shawn Miller, Winfield; PENNSYLVANIA: Melena Nathan Weiser, Altoona-Midway Whittington, State College MICHIGAN: Katie Balaam, SOUTH DAKOTA: Colin Lowell; Dustin Boehmer, Olivet; Greenfield, Beresford; Brooke Kimberly Meiste, Lowell Lockner. Miller; Matthew Odden, MINNESOTA: Brandyn Miller; Kathryn Strom, Beresford Klosterbuer, Luverne; Shannon TEXAS: Wendy Ellsworth. Nelsen, Minnewaska; Adam Cleveland Morris; Toni Rothering, Fillmore Central; Halliburton, Kirbyville; Angela Sanborn, Alexandria; Crescinda Hamilton. Cedar Park; Anna Vinkemeier. Watertown- Grant Montgomery, Marcus; Mayer Callie Pierce, Snyder; Tony MISSOURI: Mark Baker, Linn; Ruiz, AGM Consolidated Megan Denison, Seneca; Jason WASHINGTON: Leah Hempill. Denton, Crane High School; Burlington-Edison; Randi Jessica McNabb, Centralia Kifvett, Burlington-Edison; MONTANA: Courtney Miner, Joseph Richardson, Yelm; Shawn Peerless Siebold, Yelm NEBRASKA: Anita Bowder, WISCONSIN: Christy Pender; Jon Carpenter, Diller; Leatherberry, LaFarge; Julie Nicholas Clausen, Logan View; Schwahn, Reedsville; Laura Nicholas Erdman. Bayard; Ryan Shippert, Rio; Ruth Talford, Griess, Sutton; Lisa Hofmann, Durand; Ryan Weiskircher, Sutton; William Munson, Mineral Point; Patrick Whelan, Harrison; John Schmall, Bayard; Gilman High School Bryce Wiebe. Centura; Jennifer WEST VIRGINIA: Lacey Parrish, Palmyra Gorby, Tyler; Lee Ann Hall, Tyler NEW MEXICO: Lynae WYOMING: Seth Heinert,

National FFA Chorus members lifted their voices and lifted convention Bendixsen. Carlsbad; Tanille Devils Tower Berry, goers' spirits at the same time. Brad Senffer, from the Central FFA Carlsbad

Chapter in Clifton, Illinois, led the group in, "Thank God I'm a Country Boy." national FFA band

ARIZONA: Olivia Clause. Parker City; Sara Messick, Central; Dustin ARKANSAS: Mathew Thornton. Kreifels. Syracuse-Dumbar; Bismark; Kristina Nicole Lee. Lindsay Strouf, Pocahontas Wilbor-Clatonia; Bryan Colson, CALIFORNIA: Aaron Matthess. Hemmingford; John Stegmaier. DelNorte: Kevin Kandarian. Imperial; Kristy Russell. Holdrege Fowler: Kevin Clark. Gait; Joseph NEW HAMPSHIRE: Harry

Losee. San Jacinto: Elisa Azevedo. Sanborn III. Croydon, Mt. Livingston NEW MEXICO: Elicia Currier, COLORADO: Matthew Geu. Kirtland Peetz: Jessica Phelps. Peetz OHIO: Rachel Garrett, Westfall; ILLINOIS: Steven Ray. Tn-Point; Amanda Stearns, Lakota; Abby Amy Troyer. Normal: Amanda Gerken, Holgate; Daniel Kramer, Mennenga Eaton INDIANA: Nick Stoltzfus. OKLAHOMA: Harlan Yocham, Fairfield: Justin Dougherty. Sapulpa; Brent Moore. Skiatook; Whiteland: Brian Bauman, Casey Miers. Chelsea; Brian Rochester Leisher, Okeene; Dyshia Morris,

IOWA: Carrie Stomley. Wakita; Edward Sifford Jr., Rockwell-Sheffiel; Kurt Beyer. Hooker; Adam Pierce, Sapulpa: Trumpeter Joseph Losee. California, displays musical talent that would Pella: Angela Grey. Lakeside; Jalaina Johnson, Tishomingo rival the "call to post" bugle at Churchill Downs. Karla McClintock, Decorah; OREGON: Ames Kier, Joseph Jennifer Heeren. South Hamilton PENNSYLVANIA: Krista Lynn KANSAS: Kristie Schneider, Olewiler, Easter Ell-Saline SOUTH CAROLINA: Michael KENTUCKY: Aaron McDonald. Byrd, Lamar; Lyndsey Hall, Sponsored by Ford Division - Ford Motor Company and Madison Central Abbeville the National FFA Foundation General Fund MARYLAND: Sara Palm SOUTH DAKOTA: Karen Kezar. MICHIGAN: Kendra Butters, Alcester-Hudson Homer: Cindy Groenink: Katie TEXAS: Alexis Balko, Calallen; FFA members were energized before each session Droscha. Charlotte: Ryan Mathew Stout, McAllen; Wendy Robinson. U.S.A.: Kimberly Hudson. Channelview; Roel by the thundering sounds of the National FFA Band. Wilson, Bently; Shannon Guerra. Rio Grande City; Jennifer Whether they were doing the famous "chicken O'Connor. Akron-Fairgrove: Kara Novak, Seymasour: Melissa Davis, dance," or to the Butters, Homer; Kristine Martz, Burleson: Roger Carey, Cross grooving tune of the Blues Marshall: Thane Domrase. Alpena; Plains; David Foster, Sulpher Brothers, members actively prepared themselves Kristin Young, Akron-Fairgrove Springs; Stacy Stockard. Sanger; for the day's events. MINNESOTA: Kristen Betts, Elizabeth Beal. Jacksonville New York Mills: Mark Drewlow. VIRGINIA: Scott Lawrence, Hawley; Tiffany Schmidt. Lord Botetourt The National FFA Band consisted of 105 students Watertown-Mayer; Elsa Arnold, WASHINGTON: Nicholas Siler, Spring Grove; Lisa McCarvel, St. John-Endicott; Chris McLean, from across the nation. Each band member sent Round Lake; Elissa Ottemess, St. John-Endicott; Troy Ferderer, in an audition tape to win a coveted seat on the Spring Grove; Justin Dessonville. Odessa; Stephanie Bishop, Yelm; Dawson-Boyd; Amy Hazel, Tasha Scherbenske. Auburn national stage. These dedicated individuals traveled

Lanesboro Riverside; Layna St. Germain, to Louisville five days before the start of the MISSOURI: Janet Boyd. Wenatchee Greebfield; Rex Smiley, Milan; WISCONSIN: Dustin Williams, convention to assemble as a group for the first time. Heather Smith, El Dorado Springs; Hillsboro; Hope Parsons, Antigo; They practiced for countless hours to bring Bryan Spaunhorst, Washington; Justin Jorgenson, Black Hawk; Tina Holtmeyer, Washington; Jeremy Patrick-Crane, Waupaca; convention participants various musical renditions. Michelle Genke, Boonville; Kelly Jonathon Wantoch, Mondovi; Tina Howard, Wright City; Cheryl Hermann, Pardeeville; Melissa Ragan, Warrensburg: Andrew Svendsen, Monticello; Thomas Thornton, Fayette: Jacob Crandall, Fredrickson, Lake Geneva; Nicole Milan Lankey, Wonewoc-Center; Tonya MONTANA: Austin Mapston; Pautzke, Pardeeville; Raymond Logan Braaten. Flathead; Kala Valentine, Pecatonica; Emily Keith: Derek Larson, Manhattan; Reimer, Waupaca; Brandi Dirdra Metcolfe, Hobson Abegglen, Colby; Dana Weigel, NORTH DAKOTA: Jay Peterson, Darlington; Kristopher Klassy, Berthold: Zachary Hall, Berthold; New Glarus; Lisa Melby, Waupaca; Shanna Gratton, Larimore; Brent Brittney Kempfer, New Glarus Rekkedal, J.E, East Gate; Brad WYOMING: Trevor Bekken, Lambrecht, Lisbon Lander; Danielle Schaff, Wright NEBRASKA: Dawn Rosenthal, Diller; Jeff Sheldon. Pawnee

. Hard work and dedication paid off as the National AGRICULTURAL BEEF PRODUCTION Proficiency Award winners were recognized on COMMUNICATIONS ENTREPRENEURSHIP stage. These award winners excelled and Sponsored by R.R. Donnelley & Sponsored by Nasco

Sons Company; and Farm Progress Division/Nasco International, Inc.; conquered in their area of expertise in the Companies, Inc. and Schering-Plough Animal Health supervised agricultural experience program (SAE) Illinois: Bona Jeffers California: Katherine Bradbury, Harvard Biggers, Chowchilla to become the best of FFA. Many different Indiana: Jordon Zook, Colorado: Kasey Jo Walker, proficiency programs exist and 176 members Carroll New Raymer proved themselves worthy of national awards. Minnesota: Tammy Lynn Idaho: Kyla Prunty. Rimrock Gilland, Cedar Mountain Kansas: Brandon New, Areas range from traditional production South Dakota: Tiffany Tonganoxie agriculture, to the newer food science and Anderson. Agricultural technology, environmental science and emerging Lemmon BEEF PRODUCTION PLACEMENT agricultural technology areas. These 44 proficiency AGRICULTURAL Cactus Feeders, Inc.; Fort Dodge Animal Health; Evergreen Mills, awards recognize achievements in an ever-changing MECHANICAL TECHNICAL SYSTEMS, Inc.; and Kent Feeds, Inc. industry. ENTREPRENEURSHIP California: Anthony Ledahl, Elk Grove Sponsored by CARQUEST Corporation and Daimler Chrysler Florida: James C. LeFils Jr., Judges interviewed finalists and inspected their Corporation-Dodge Trucks Pine Ridge record books. Then, each winner was presented California: Tim Deniz, Indiana: Chad Shaffer, Chowchilla Carroll with a plaque and a cash award on stage and earned Georgia: Clay Johnson. Wyoming: Ty Muir, Manila the chance to participate in an international Emanuel County Institute agricultural travel experience. Illinois: John Finnigan. CEREAL GRAIN Normal PRODUCTION Michigan: Ryan Sweeney, Sponsored by Cenex Harvest Mason States Foundation California: Greg Van Dyke, AGRICULTURAL East Nicolaus MECHANICAL Colorado: John Michal, TECHNICAL SYSTEMS, Flagler PLACEMENT Indiana: Chad Alan Central Sponsored by Case Corporation Nussbaum, Adams Indiana: Jared Lee Ohio: Andrew M. Stitzlein, Nussbaum. Adams Central Loudonville Ohio: Jason Rafferty Dallas, Laurel Oaks DAIRY PRODUCTION Pennsylvania: Jared W. ENTREPRENEUR Sponsored by Alfa Laval Agri, Inc; Weaver, Grassland Manno Pro Corporation, "The Calf- Wisconsin: Jason Oetzman, Manna" Company; and National Hillsboro FFA Foundation General Fund California: Natalie Porscha AGRICULTURAL Borba, Escalon Even Outdoor Recreation has its own proficiency award; Jaclyn Dawn PROCESSING Iowa: Jordan D. Walther, Myers was the recipient of this national award. Sponsored byAg Processing, G&G Inc./Consolidated Nutrition LC; Ohio: Daren M. Sheffield, Archer Daniels Midland Company; and National FFA Foundation Wellington General Fund Wisconsin: Jackie A. Connecticut: Ben Berecz, Thompson, Darlington Woodbury Indiana: Joseph H. Miller. DAIRY PRODUCTION Rochester PLACEMENT Pennsylvania: Carleen Sponsored by Monsanto Company Michelle Vorisek, Linesville California: Carl Brasil, Tennessee: Ralph G. Ramey, Tulare Western Midway Iowa: Nora Richter, Maquoketa Valley AGRICULTURAL SALES Minnesota: Shaine Miletto, AND/OR SERVICE Battle Lake Sponsored by Case Corporation; Missouri: David Heusing, Chevrolet Motor Division; The Pleasant Hope Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company; and Vigortone Ag Products

California: Joe Martin Jr., Lodi Georgia: Terry Michael McNair, Hawkinsville Idaho: Zackary Gillette, Burley

Missouri: Randy J. Meissen, Salisbury

• DIVERSIFIED CROP PRODUCTION ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Sponsored by Cargill California: Frances Echeverria, Central Illinois: Dan Kilmer, Seneca Indiana: Jason Masters, Shenandoah Wisconsin: Joseph T. Lulich, Ashland

DIVERSIFIED CROP PRODUCTION PLACEMENT EMERGING Sponsored by National Crop AGRICULTURAL Insurance Services; AgrEvo; and TECHNOLOGY Rain & Hail Insurance Service, Inc. Sponsored by Caterpillar Agricultural Kansas: Justin Michael Products, Inc. Newland, Neodesha California: Chris Black,

Ohio: Matthew John Brooks, North High - Bakersfield Monroeville Florida: William Donald Oklahoma: Adam Tibbetts, Dukes, Lake Butler Chickasha Kansas: Ross Janssen, Wisconsin: Zeb Zuehls, Ellsworth Montello Ohio: Kyle Wilson, Laurel Oaks DIVERSIFIED LIVE- STOCK PRODUCTION ENVIRONMENTAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP SCIENCE Sponsored by National Crop Sponsored by IMC Global, Inc.; and Insurance Services; AgrEvo; and Carolina Biological Supply Co. Rain & Hail Insurance Service, Inc. Indiana: Austin Taylor, California: Jason Robert Carroll Diedrich, Firebaugh Kansas: Jarret D. Gowdy, Illinois: Jennifer Herman, Arkansas City Taylorville Minnesota: Courtney Lynne South Dakota: Jeff Daniel Turnage, Murray County DeRouchey. Chamberlain Central Wisconsin: Steven Michael Oregon: Jennifer Louise Offer, Marshfield Brickey, Hillsboro

EQUINE SCIENCE, DIVERSIFIED LIVE- ENTREPRENEURSHIP

STOCK PRODUCTION, Sponsored by Purina Mills, Inc.; PLACEMENT American Paint Horse Association; and Red Brand Non-Climb Horser Sponsored by ContiGroup Fence/Made by Keystone Steel & Companies, Inc, Allflex USA, Inc.; Wire Company and United Soybean Board Diversified crop production is one of the many supervised agri- California: Shayna Muniz, California: Eric Joughin cultural experience programs available. Students were selected Templeton Kern Valley Hafenfeld, to advance from the state level and top projects were judged at North Dakota: Matthew Indiana: Scott C. Spooner, the national level. Anderson, Carrington Carroll Ohio: Price, Benjamin Missouri: Donald Lewis A.J. Logan Laut III, Fredericktown Wisconsin: Dwayne P. Utah: John Matthew Beaumier. Oconto Falls Wintch, Dixie

EQUINE SCIENCE, PLACEMENT

Sponsored by Resistol Hats California: Tina Lynn Saitone, Petaluma Indiana: Jeffery Scott Dever. Oak Hill Utah: Shawn W. Silcox, Payson Washington: Rachel Willemsen. Yelm ;

$\p*~ »« ny FEED GRAIN PRODUCTION ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Sponsored by Pioneer Hi-Bred inter- national, Inc. Colorado: Bryan Geisick, Wiggins Illinois: Brandon VanBlaricum, West Richland Missouri: Aaron Dale Minnick, Chillicothe Nebraska: Ryan Anthony Johnson, Imperial

FEED GRAIN PRODUCTION PLACEMENT Sponsored by Pioneer Hi-Bred

International, Inc. Indiana: David Richard Skiles, Carroll Kentucky: Tyson Colin Sanderfur, Ohio County Missouri: Patrick L. Weisz, Norborne Wisconsin: Joe Steuck, Montello Kimberly Michelle Newson was ecstatic when she was announced winner of the sheep production FIBER CROP proficiency award. PRODUCTION Sponsored by Griffin LLC; Cotton Grower; and Witco Corporation California: Dominic Pitigliano. Tulare Union New Mexico: Kami Joy. FORAGE PRODUCTION HOME AND/OR LANDSCAPE Artesia Sponsored by Gehl Company; and COMMUNITY MANAGEMENT Novartis Seeds. Inc. North Carolina: Samuel DEVELOPMENT Sponsored by Reiman Publications California: Beau Christopher David Walton, St Pauls Sponsored by Carhartt, Inc. Nebraska: Tracy McCormick, Correia, Dos Palos Oklahoma: Zac Harris, Colorado: Carlos Allen Tekamah-Herman Illinois: Ryan Meyer, Liberty Hobart Abeyta, Delta North Carolina: Jonathan Indiana: Jacob Win ford Missouri: Richard C. Craig, Motes, West Carteret Southmont FLORICULTURE Arthur. Norborne South Dakota: Chad Odens, Ohio: John Huss. Sponsored by American Floral Woodmore New Mexico: Fabian Beltran. Harrisburg Endowment; The Kroger Company; Artesia Virginia: Brian Estes Valent U.S.A. Corp.; and FOREST MANAGEMENT Virginia: Emily Okes, Greenhouse Grower West Calhoun, Park View Sr. Sponsored by DaimlerChrysler Shady Spring Florida: Chad Allen Corporation Fund-Dodge Trucks; Branford, North Marion John Deere Consumer Products and NURSERY OPERATIONS subsidiary Homelite and Smurfit- Sponsored by Daimler-Chrysler Oklahoma: Amanda Lynn HORTICULTURE Stone Container Corp. Sponsored by Bayer Corporation, Corporation Fund-Dodge Trucks; Bingham, Tecumseh Farmland Mutual Insurance Alabama: Joey Knight, AGncultural Division Washington: Rebekah Company/Nationwide Agribusiness Randolph-Roanoke California: J. Robert Serna. Insurance Company and Quality Riches. Yelm California: Travis Thane, Turlock Stores, Inc. Group Wisconsin: Renee Michelle Nevada Union Ohio: Julie Dabrunz, Fremont Florida: Kiley Sieffert. Cerny, Big Foot-Walworth Georgia: Thomas Blake Tennessee: Benjamin Moore, Colonial Clark, Wheeler County Warren County Louisiana: Mayonce E. FOOD SCIENCE AND Indiana: Matt Oberlies. Wisconsin: Brooke Ellen Franks. North Central

TECHNOLOGY ' Scottsburg Voelker, Weyauwwega- Ohio: Raymond 'Andy Sponsored by HJ. Heinz Company; Meyocks & Priebe Advertising, Inc.; Fremont Rickets, Ridgedale and Seneca Foods Corporation FRUIT AND/OR Tennessee: Adam Franklin Arkansas: Jeremy West, VEGETABLE Newby. Warren County Springdale PRODUCTION Maine: Julie Megan Sponsored by Briggs & Stratton Corporation Foundation, Inc. Gunderman, Presque Isle Idaho: Ryn Beck, Burley Oregon: Shelli Bunn. Dayton California: Timothy Lewis, Wisconsin: Kelvin Heiman, Elk Grove Marshfield Indiana: Francisco Reyes, North Newton Utah: Melanie McMullin, Payson OIL CROP PRODUCTION, POULTRY SMALL ANIMAL CARE SWINE PRODUCTION, ENTREPRENEURSHIP PRODUCTION Sponsored by Novartis Animal PLACEMENT

Sponsored by Novartis Seeds, Inc.; Sponsored by Chore-Time Health U.S., Inc. Sponsored by Akey, Inc.; and Pfizer and United Soybean Board Equipment Division of CTB, Inc.; Indiana: Nora Lynn Berndt, Animal Health Schering-Plough Animal Health; Kansas: Steve Friess, Labette Woodlan Iowa: Jeffrey R. Moellers, and United Soybean Board County Ohio: Jamie Evans, Live Starmont Georgia: Jonathan Mark New Mexico: Marshall Alan Oaks: Carla Dian Channell, Ohio: Kristina Diamond. Gibson, Gilmer County Baker, Texico Gaither Marysville Indiana: Kelly Myers, North Carolina: J.R. Austin, Tennessee: Tiffany German, Oklahoma: Tonya Nicole Wawasee Piedmont McMinn County West, Weatherford Minnesota: Nathan Ylitalo. Ohio: Rob Bambauer, New Wisconsin: Jeffrey J. Cross, Menahga Bremen SOIL AND WATER Randolph Missouri: Tyler Cribbs, MANAGEMENT Pleasant Hope OIL CROP PRODUCTION, Sponsored by American Cyanamid TURF GRASS PLACEMENT Company, Global Agricultural MANAGEMENT SHEEP PRODUCTION Products Sponsored by BASF; AgroEvo; Sponsored by The Scotts Company Sponsored by LA-CO All Asgrow Seed Company Indiana: Craig A. Holman, Weather" Paintstik Markers; Indiana: Andrea Faye Hamilton Iowa: Ryan Beeson, Red Oak Wrangler Division of V.F. Bennett, Southmont Corporation; and National FFA Kentucky: Raglena E. Missouri: Ryan T. Craig, Ohio: Fran Meister, West Foundation General Fund Turpin, Madison Central Norbome Liberty-Salem California: Paige Gill, North Dakota: Shannon L. Ohio: Curt Goubeaux, Nebraska: Marty Bland. Dixon Reardon, Medina Versailles Norfolk North Carolina: Brent Virginia: Melissa Anne Wisconsin: Ryan Sperger, Oregon: Jackie Herinckx, Justin Jennings. Camden Kenney, Turner Ashby Waupun Hillsboro Oklahoma: Dustin Moore, Taloga OUTDOOR WILDLIFE Tennessee: Kimberly SPECIALTY ANIMAL RECREATION MANAGEMENT, Michelle Newsom, PRODUCTION, Sponsored by Chevrolet Motor ENTREPRENEURSHIP Division; OF. Mossberg and Sons, Dyersburg Sponsored by Purina Mills, Inc.; Sponsored by Bass Pro Shops. Inc; Inc.; and Schrade Cutlery and Quality Stores, Inc. Group and Buck Knives California: Jaclyn Dawn Florida: Frank Ray Allen II, Ohio: Kevin Dale Myers, Sierra Suwannee Shoemaker, Madison-Plains Louisiana: Rocky Smith. Idaho: Derek Fisher, Minnesota: Scott M. Fank, Vinton Meridian Bold Minnesota: Matthew E. North Dakota: Dusty Kost, South Dakota: Nicholas Knott, Tracy Fessenden Nielson, Lennox Sundstrom Wyoming: Quint Gonzales. Tennessee: Jeremy Wisconsin: Nicholas Jerry Buffalo Montgomery, Riverside Beil, Marshfield SPECIALTY WILDLIFE CROP PRODUCTION MANAGEMENT, Sponsored by Elf Atochem North America, Inc.; Kubota Tractor PLACEMENT Corporation, Na-Churs/Alpine Sponsored by Cabela's Ducks Solutions; and Wilbur-Ellis Unlimited; Rocky Mountain Elk Company Foundation; National Rifle California: Christopher Association of America Jared Chaney, Kerman Idaho: Kyle Brown, Indiana: Andrew D. Haskell, Cambridge Switzerland County Indiana: Mark A. Sollman, Wisconsin: Tracy Lee Gibson Southern Smithback, Cambridge Ohio: Jon Norris. Miami Valley Wyoming: Michelle Vigil, Career Technology Riverside Center Oklahoma: Justin Steckman. SWINE PRODUCTION, Carneeie ENTREPRENEURSHIP Sponsored by Pfizer Animal Health;

and Purina Mills, Inc. California: Rachelle Ann Bailey, Turlock Illinois: Krista Builta, Blue Ridge Missouri: Jesse Albert Heimer, Palmyra Wisconsin: Jesse Thomas Bollinger, James C. LeFils, Jr. was jubilant as his name was called as Cochrane-Fountain City national winner of the beef proficiency award. ALABAMA: Daryl Lee Behel. Rogers: Chris Carroll, Slocomb; Jonathan Eubanks, Slocomb; John A Grace. South Lamar: John T Hubbard. Bibb County: Brad Lamon, East Lawrence; Brian Randall Lamon, East Lawrence; Carrie Lee Myers, Collinsville; Jered Oden, Russellvillc; Christine Anne Simmer, Montevallo; James Bradford Smith, Montevallo; John David Strickland, Slocomb; ARIZONA: Lacey Balmer, Payson; Shanna Nicole Bowman, Kofa; Jennifer Ann Boyle. Gilbert: Amanda Cansler. Yuma; Ryan Churchey, Red Mountain: Amy Cowell. Red Mountain: Lynn M Davies, Safford; Jason Michael DeSpain, Safford: Chad DiPeso, Benson; Brian Christopher Fuller, Chino Valley". R Matthew Gless. amencan

Red Mountain; Angela Kay Jaynes, Yuma; Julia Johnson. Payson; Joe Jones, Antelope; Laura Miller, Red Sponsored by American Cyanamid Company, Global Agricultural Mountain; Blaine Morris. Yuma; Products; Case Corporation; Farm Credit Services; and, Pioneer Hi-Bred Jason Paul. Payson; Jamie Rovey. International, Inc. Buckeye; Shauna D Smith. Peoria: Eric Stevens, Payson; Jesus Franisco Honorary American FFA Degree recipients exemplify the true meaning of the FFA Valdez, Elfrida; Jessica Lynn Van and its mission with their own premier leadership, personal growth and career success Matre, Yuma; Robbie Walker, tactics. Recipients of this distinguished degree remind members how influential Elfrida; Aimee Weber. Yuma; Katie leaders are and the importance of supporting a worthy cause. Weir. Red Mountain; Patrick F

Wellert II, Peoria: Stephanie Wellert, Peoria; Hayley Renee White, Kofa; Recipients of this degree range from agricultural teachers who devote countless hours Eric Wofford, Yuma; Tanner Lee helping students to school and government officials who offer their expertise for the Young, Gilbert; ARKANSAS: Josh good of the organization and the people involved. Baker. Mountain Home; Morgan E Davis, Nettleton; Samantha Easley. Emerson; Elizabeth Paige Garvin. The National FFA Organization Honorary American FFA Degree is presented to Valley Springs; Amanda M Norman. such individuals to thank them for their continued support of the FFA and agricultural Paragould; Sarah E Norman. education. During the Friday morning session these honored individuals received Paragould; Scotch Powell. Mountain their plagues and esteemed appreciation from the national officers. Home; Eric Rowbotham, Mountain Home; Aaron Treat, Decatur; CALIFORNIA: Shanna Abatti, El Centro-Southwest; Tony A Abatti. El Courtney Baylis, Mira Loma-Jurupa Moon Bay; Sarah Burrow, Lemoore: Centro-Southwest; Allison Marie Valley; Julie Beaver, Morro Bay; Matthew Byrne, Tulelake; Cori Adams, Tehachapi; Amanda Aguiar, James Daniel Beck, Bret Harte; Paul Calvert, Fresno-Central; Liz Camara, Livingston; Katy Allen. Atascadero; David Bedrosian, Fowler; Matt Gustine; Miranda Cardiff, Dixon; Russell Steven Allison. Mariposa; Beechinor. Madera; Stephanie David Carr, Chowchilla: Melissa Neil Amarante, Gustine; Patrick Benedict, Yosemite; Irene Bernal. Christine Carter, Mira Loma-Jurupa Andersen, Los Molinos; Manuel Livingston; Larry Bettencourt, Valley: Adam Casso, Atwater; Chris

Andrade Jr, Corcoran; Joshua R Gonzales; Manuel Bettencourt, Centeno, Arroyo Grande; Nathan Anson, Sunny Hills; Matt Archer, Hanford; Jeremy Biery, Escondido; Center, Fresno Central; Maria Kerman; Ryan Armstrong, Orange Kylie Billingsley, Lemoore Union; Chavez, Butte Valley; Greg Chiossi, Glen; Stephen Ashburn, Fresno Chris Black, North High- Healdsburg; David John Coffman, Central; Kimberly Aspiras, Chico; Bakersfield; Jessalee Blackwell, Gilroy; Mindy Marie Coleman. Christina Avila, Atwater; Cory Avila, Lodi: Kelly Block, Shandon: Andrew Pioneer; Julieann Collins, Fresno Gustine; Eric Axberg, Mira Loma- Bloom, Turlock; Scott Boardman. Central; Sharee' Michelle Copeland, Jurupa Valley; Holly Baker, Atwater; North High-Bakersfield; Juliann Chino-Don Lugo; Kathryn A Laura Baker. Sanger: Margo Bothwell. Kern Valley; Amber N Cornelius, La Habra-Sonora; Baldiviez. Santa Maria; Brian Braz, Anderson; Adam Braziel, Elk Jennifer Correia. Tulare Union; Baptista. Atwater; Bridget M Grove; Brett Broesel, La Sierra; Jeff Steven Costa, Tulare Union; Robin Barcellos, Monache; Thaddeus Brown, Clovis; Heidi Buckman, Cozzitorto, Hilmar; Barsotti. Esparto; Mandy Barton, McArthur-Fall River; Will Bunt, Red Thomas Creighton, Lake Isabella- Chowchilla; Debi Batini, Areata; Bluff; Bridget Annette Burns, Half Kern Valley; Stacy Ann Crow, Newman-Orestimba; Victor Torres Fresno-Pershing; Lorna Kreutz, Chad Murdoch, Chowchilla; Cruz. Santa Maria; Manuel Cunha, Fallbrook; Jenni Kuhns, Hollister- Francisco Muro. Bakcrsfield- Lemoore: Andy Curlee, Lodi; Alex San Benito; Brian Lambert, Lake Ridgeview; Matthew Murray. DeBennedetto. Clovis; Zach Isabella-Kern Valley; Laura Carpinteria; Patrick Murray, Dixon: DeBemardi, Santa Maria-Righetti; Elizabeth Lander, Coalinga; Amanda Molly Myers, Tollhouse-Sierra: Ron Renee Dell. Sanger; Tim Deniz, Lane, Lemoore; Sarah Elisha Nack, Escondido; Bobbie Nelson. Chowchilla; Stacey Leah DePaul, Lenard, Fullerton; Jesus Leon, Atwater; Jeff Noble. Porterville- Surprise Valley; David DeRose, Gonzales; Ricky Levy, Lemoore; Monaehe; Terry Norris, Tulare Western; Gabe DeTar, Dixon; Matthew Lewallen, Merced Golden Bloomington; Justin Noutary. Dixon; Luke DeTar, Dixon; Jane Diedrich, Valley; Jollecn Lindo, Gustine; Shayleen Marie O'Connell. Colusa: Firebaugh; Andrea Dilley, Fresno Robert Lindsey, Norco; Dallas W David M Ogilvie, Clarksburg Delta; Central; Jacob Cody Domenghini, Lobmeyer, Coalinga; Sarah Ida Philip Ogilvie, Clarksburg-Delta; Morro Bay; D J Dunn, Santa Ynez; Lopes. Newman-Orestimba; Anna Carlos Oliva, Gonzales; Sara Ortiz. Lesa Eidman, Grass Valley-Nevada Michele Lounibos, Vista; Dean Tulare Western; Sasha Orton. Santa

Union; Keith Elliott, McFarland; Loux, Santa Maria; Christopher R Ynez; Brady Otto, Gait; Jerry April England, Lake Isabella-Kern Luis, Fresno-Central; Sara Ourique, Laton; John Paasch, Grass Valley, Traci Erickson, Fallbrook; Luscombe. Tulelake; Frank Valley-Bear River: Tamara Lynn Michael Fagundes. Kingsburg; Machado, Atwater; Michelle M Pacho, Mira Loma-Jurupa Valley: James Faircloth, Escondido; Rebecca Maciel, Riverdale; Randee Lee Philip L Pacia, Sonora-La Habra: Marie Ferrari, Santa Maria; Michael Maier, Tollhouse-Sierra; Pauline Paula Pafford, Firebaugh; Maria Ferreira, Dixon; Sara Hilary Fike, Mandell, Littlerock; Amanda Martin. Paredes, Fresno Central; Kevin Yosemite; Steven Flores, Santa Tulare Western; Amy Jo Martin. Parsons. Lake Isabella-Kern Valley;

Ynez: Mandy Foreman. Brentwood- Liberty; Mark Alan Foust, Lancaster-Antelope Valley; Tricia Fowler, Atwater; Paris Freitas, Lemoore; Joshua Freng, Tehachapi; Robin Frost. Fairfield-Armijo: Jennifer Galaway, Atwater; Jose Garcia. Newman-Orestimba: Bailey Gardner, Campbell; Jennifer Lynn Gates, Mira Loma-Jurupa Valley; Frank Gaytan, Selma; Paige Gill, Dixon; Andy Godfrey, Riverside-La Sierra; Melissa Alison Gomes, Merced-Golden Valley: Amanda Kate Gonzales, San Marcos; Brian Goodwater, Dixon; Sherie Goulart,

Fresno-Central: Jill Greathouse, Sutter Union: Christine M Green. Lancaster-Antelope Valley; Hector Guerra. Santa Maria-Righetti; Jennifer Guthrie-Casey, Yosemite; Tony Gutierrez, Dorris-Butte Valley; Summer Hackett. Tollhouse-Sierra;

Donald J Hadden III, Littlerock; Bryon Hadwick, Dorris-Butte Valley: Eric Hafenfeld. Lake Isabella-Kern Mira Loma-Jurupa Valley; Grant Shane Peck. Atwater; Arthur Valley; Megan Harrison, La Habra- Edward Martin, El Capitan; Aaron Pedreiro. Chowchilla: Lisa Petersen,

Sonora; Heather Lynn Havens, Matheron, Hilmar; Melanie Mathis, Santa Ynez; Shelley Petitt. Holtville; Kelly Heather, Yosemite; Hanford; Jeni McCleskey, Atwater; Chowchilla; Amy Pietrowski. Dixon: Alvino B Hermosillo, San Marcos; Richard McGrath. Riverside- Michelle Pigeon, Dixon: Jessica Nick Heryford. Clovis; Joel Rubidoux; James McKasson, Dorris- Pires, Tulare Union; Nicholas W Hickman, Dixon; Nicole Howell, Butte Valley; Kristina McKay, Podsakoff, Kerman: Anselmo Salinas; Jeremy Micheal M Hunter, Lemoore; Jeff McLaughlin. Ramirez, Santa Ynez: Teresa Ramos. Fowler; April Jackson, Mira Loma- Tehachapi; Lisa Leona McPeters. Woodland; Misty Rayn, Dixon: Matt Jurupa Valley; Justin Jackson, Madera; Chet Mebane, North High- Redding. Madera: Jimmy Reed. East Woodland; Lisa Johns, Tulare Bakersfield; Sean L Mees, San Luis Nicolaus; Chad Reis. Dixon: Sarah Union; Courtney Johnson, Obispo; George Meyer, Lemoore; Renner. Fortuna; Kevin Riley. Chowchilla; Patricia Johnson, Katie Meyer, Fortuna; Matthew McFarland: Briahna C Ritchea. Atwater; Audrey Johnston, Mira Migliazzo, Atwater; Rebecca Yucaipa: Rebecca Lynn Ritchea. Loma-Jurupa Valley; Jenifer Jones, Suzanne Mintz, Nicolaus-East Quartz Hill; Jennifer Roberts. Tulare Coalinga; Kevin Jones, Lemoore; Nicolaus; Mario Mitchell, Mono Western; Camille Marie Robertson. Maureen Anita Jones, El Capitan; Bay; John David Moiola. Brawley; Santa Maria-Ernest Righetti; Korie Theresa Jones, Mira Loma-Jurupa Mark Monroe, Fresno-Pershing; Robinson. Dixon: Chad Rocha. Valley; Joey Jorge, Santa Maria- Justin Moore, Elk Grove; Juan Gustine: Heather Rocha. Hanford; Ernest Righetti; Frank Junio, Tulare Moreno, Lemoore; Jasen Morris, Wesley Rodrigues. Lemoore: Steven Union; Jami Kaptein. Fallbrook; Dixon; Tony Mullen, Riverside-La Michael Rodriguez. Madera; Allison Conor Keegan, Santa Ynez; Rhett Sierra; Elizabeth Mullion, Blythe; Roeben. Lemoore: Casev Euaene Kennedy, Atwater; Zeb King, Atascadero; Nathan Koop, .

Roland. Salinas-North Salinas: Tina Bolinger, Delta; Neil James Mary Catherine Thomas, Durant

Lynn Saitone, Petaluma: Jennifer Brennan, Meeker; Chris C Burns, Senior; Allison J Wacaser, Durant Michelle Sanford. Lompoc: Melissa Holly; Travis James Carman, Akron; Senior; Amy S Wacaser, Durant Saterfield. Mira Loma-Jurupa Valley; Christopher Michael Carpio, Platte Senior; Daniel Slade Williams, Amanda Marie Sayers. Kelseyville: Valley; Heather Cunningham, Williston High Senior; Josh B Mathew Daniel Schager. Hamilton Hotchkiss; Ryan Davis, Las Animas; Wilson, Okeechobee Brahman; City; Steven William Schohr, Michael Forster, Platte Valley; Bobbi GEORGIA: Hilary Barrett, Franklin Gridley; Shannon Lynn Schreyer, Geisert, Valley; Brad Allan Harr, County; Keith Bassett. Putnam Mira Loma-Jurupa Valley; Stephanie Alamosa; Scott B Harr. Alamosa; County; Reginald Doyle Beasley, Sears. Arroyo Grande; Zachary Duane D Hawkins, Peetz; Ryan C Wayne County; Amy Day, Coffee Shuler. Lucerne Valley; Trinity Silva. Herboldsheimer, Peetz; Ryan D County; Kristy Lynn Griffis, Wayne Lemoore; Patrick Simas, Lemoore; Johnson. Platte Valley; Julie County; Trey Hart. Colquitt County; Jeffrey David Simonian. Fowler; Erin Lorraine Kreps, Eaton; Jennie Timothy Kirk Jackson, Jefferson; Kathryn Sissom, Chowchilla; Cody Loutzenhiser, Flagler; Scott Bradley Krista Jowers, Coffee County; Eric Skinner. Gonzales; Gayle Smith, Oswald, Kit Carson; Seth Paige, Kight, Treutlen; Richard Oliver Half Moon Bay; Katrina Smith. Burlington: Randy Lynn Palmer, McGinnis, Madison County; Philip Norco; Anthony Souza. Tulare Eaton; Rex Peebles. Hotchkiss; Edward McKie, Wilcox County; Union; Kacey Souza, Newman- Timothy D Provost. Pueblo County; Benjamin Clay Melancon, Oconee Orestimba; Chrissy Spencer. Gait: David Ruyle. Wiggins; Richard County; Tony A Morgan, Effingham Angela Bnanne St Clair. Porterville; Schmunk, Eaton; Joshua Ray County; Lana C Moye, Mitchell- Dustin Stellway, Escondido-Orange Schnabel, Kit Carson; Gabe Baker; James Allen Nobles, Glen; Dani Stock, San Luis Obispo; Schreiber. Woodlin; Robin Treutlen; Bradley Thomas Rahn. Scott Stoller. Altaville-Bret Harte; Schreiber. Woodlin; Susan Schreiber, Effingham County; Terry Roberts,

Tyler Storey. Santa Ynez: Stacy Ann Flagler; J D Sheldon. Burlington; Colquitt County; Rodney Rogers, Stubna. Mira Loma-Jurupa Valley; Jon Smithburg. Flagler; Nikki Treutlen; Ray Salter, Colquitt William Sullivan, Paso Robles; Smotherman, Lamar; Jake Turner, County; Jarrell Sapp, Colquitt Kevin Patrick Sweeney, Kingsburg: Las Animas; Kasey Jo Walker, New County; Laura Michelle Smith. Travis Thane, Grass Valley-Nevada Raymer: Cody Weber, Montrose; Bainbridge; Carol Lea Spruit] Tara Naomi Weber. Kit Carson; amencan

Union; Travis Thurman, Bakersfield- CONNECTICUT: Christine L Jackson County; Leanne Stalvay. Highland; Heather Elizabeth Todisco, (Molnar) Knowlton, Storrs Regional; Berrien County; Melissa Varnadoe, Madera; Anthony Triqueiro. Chris Crane. Housatonic Valley; Cook; IDAHO: Sean Z Bartschi, Lemoore; Jessica Truax. Dorris-Butte Dawn Marie Deojay. Killingly; Bear Lake: Robyn Boss. Filer; Jake Valley; Jeremy Turner, Dixon; Mary Elyse M Giles, Matta Beset; Valerie Brackett, Filer: Cody Robert Tye, Chico; Juan C Uribe, Gonzales; J Goldstone, Northwestern Regional: Chandler, Weiser: Brian Paul John Marius Van de Pol, Escalon; Lalena Lee McMillan. Matta Beset; Darrington, Declo; Jennifer Ellis, Colleen Van Egmond. Gait; Jeremy Clark Pariseault. Northwestern Meridian: Jake Florence, Cambridge; Van Groningen, Laton; Orlando Regional; Steven M Saleski, Lyman Sarah Fuller, Filer: Lori Harrison, Velazaquez, Santa Maria-Righetti; Hall; Stacey Stearns, Storrs Minico; Monica Janicek, Meridian; Brian Ventura. Santa Maria; Leaine Regional; Christopher F Werbiski. Bodie B Keetch, Bear Lake; Dawsha Verdegaal. Hanford; Brian A Vieira. Lyman Hall; DELAWARE: Paula Kelley, Vallivue; Troy Lloyd Tulare Union: Mark Vitoria, Kohout. Caesar Rodney; James W Kimball, Castleford; Nathan Lee

Lemoore: Erik von Seggern, Messick Jr, Lake Forest; Ashley Langley, Fruitland; Kyla Leigh Escondido; Kevery Waters, Peebles. Caesar Rodney; William C Mink, Cambridge; Trent Munden, Tollhouse-Sierra; Don M Welch. Tanner, Caesar Rodney; FLORIDA: Cambridge: Krista Dawn Orthel, Lemoore: Stephan S West, Wendy Michelle Burton, Lake Filer; Stephanie E Pape. Payette; Carpinteria; Treva Renee Wharton, Butler; Benjamin L Butler, Janita Showell, Malad; Jessica Lee Lakeside-El Capitan; Robert B Okeechobee Brahman; Courtnie A Skinner, Bear Lake; Rebecca Ann Wheatley. Lemoore; Donnie Davison, Lake Butler: Anne H Smith, Fruitland; Erika Stelljes, Whitworth, Dixon; Andrew Williams, Dunigan, Gaither: Jacqueline Fruitland; Lacey Ann Swainston, Arroyo Grande; James Thomas Flowers, Suwannee; William Irvin

Williams Jr. San Marcos; Shawndelle Johnson, Suwannee; Bryan T Jones, Williams, Santa Maria-Righetti; Shay Columbia; Amy Luther, Suwannee; Ann Williams. San Marcos; Tom Charlotte Ann McQuillen, Lake Williams, Mariposa; Jarred Placid; Damien P Negley. George Williamson, Reedley; Christopher Jenkins; Jerrett Pigott, Chipley; Windham. Holtville; Donald O Wir/. Christina Marie Pryor. Sarasota Vo Hollister; Patsy Wood, Coalinga; AG; Michael Rago, George Jenkins; William Woodbridge. Coalinga; Kalli Troy Anthony Rentz. Deland;

Marie Wooters, Anderson; Jamie Randall C Roser Jr, Gaither; Heather Lynn Yarbrough. Mira Loma-Jurupa E Rucker, Dixie Sr; Ronald Douglas

Valley Heathei \ni Yelverton Simmons Jr, South Sumter; Amanda Buena Park; Stan Young, Fresno- Lyn Smith. Pine Ridge; Natalie Pershing; Amber Zuiderweg, Tulare Smith, Lake Butler; Andrew Philip Union; Natalie Marie Zwerner, Apple Soliz, Charlotte Senior; Jason Valley; COLORADO: Kristen J Steward, Chamberlain; Amanda Andrews, Weld Central; Julie Appel, Surles, Okeechobee Brahman; Justin McClave; Justin Lawrence Wade Teuton, North Marion; Brandi Thomas, Lake Region; Richfield: E Charlie Vogel. Kuna; Harrison: Joshua R Giesler, Forest Algona; Matt Danner, Carroll Area; County; Derek Sawyer. Jnman: Derek Wakefield. Cambridge; Anne Park; Amanda Kay Greenwood, Andy Christopher Demuth, Waverly- Leslie Small, Arkansas City: Odile Wickersham, Payette; Benton Central; Julie Ann Greives, Shell Rock; Mathew Ryan Dewey, Michael L Springer, Neodesha: ILLINOIS: Darren Bakken. Rossville; Jason Michael Gross, Waverly-Shell Rock; Kevin Lynn Lance Stafford, Hill City: Josh Lincoln: Parker Bane, Ridgeview; Carroll; Brad Harts, Oak Hill; Mark Engelbrecht, North Scott; Elise Joy Stockebrand, Yates Center: Katie Danielle Barnett. Bluffs: Jason M Andrew Haveman, Whiteland: Cara Feinberg, Alburnett; Teresa Stucky, Inman; Trenton Uden. Barto. Lincolnwood; Dave Bent. L Hines, Huntington North; Robert Feldpausch, Central; Thomas C Arkansas City; Ervin Underwood. Liberty: Amy Brandt. Waterloo; L Johnson, DeKalb; Isaiah R Jones, Goodhue, Indianola; Jamie Haidsiak, Mankato; Thomas Watson, Ross Bremmer. Pearl City: Eric L Rossville; Russell Oliver Kelsay, Mount Ayr; Samantha J Heinz, Hillsboro; Brad Williams. Arkansas Cheeseman. Ashton: Karen Whiteland; Chad Wayne Key. Oak Charles City; Matthew Allan Horak. City; Matt Wolters, Atwood; Becky Comerford, Bluffs; Nicholas C Hill; Chad Duane Kirkpatrick, Vinton; Trista K Ide, Creston; Brad Zenger, North Central; Dinges. Amboy: Melissa Renee Dry, Southwood; Andrew Klosterman, Jensen, Osage; Andy Johnson, KENTUCKY: Jonathan Lee Adams. Roanoke-Benson; Holli Ishmiel Seymour: Kyle Arthur Kuehnert, Osage; Justin Jon Jordahl. Iowa Rockcastle County; Jimmy Allen. Eisenmann. Cissna Park; Jeremiah Huntington North; Brian Keith Falls-Alden; Brian Kessel, Lamoni; Barren County; Dana Jo Baker. Fleming. Olney: Jason Alvin Marlin. Whiteland; Audrey Suzanne Michael James Kramer. Osage; Caldwell County: Brandon Ball. Froehner. Peotone: Kevin Guebert. McCain, Delphi; Lisa Mae McDill, Patrick Lentz, Waverly-Shell Rock; Breckinridge County; Craig Keith Waterloo: Angela Kristine Haag. Tri- Liberty; Brett Middlesworth, Oak Mark Licht. Manson Northwest Ball, Breckinridge County: Jeremy Point: Jay Harris. Franklin: Christina Hill: Miranda L Miller, Rossville; Webster; Bonnie Lohf, Belle Plaine; Ballard, Madison Southern: Ashley Harshman. Barry: Jared James Joseph R Mills. Southmont; Matt Nathan J McAvan, Central; Carrie Drake Bibb, Logan County; Jessica Hunter. Salem: Debra S Korte, Muhlenkamp. South Adams; Kevin McCaw, Williamsburg; Scott Lee Blankenship, South Laurel; Massac County; Mark W L Lambird. David Munchel. Western Wayne; Matthew Metzger, West Lyon; Chad Derek Bratcher, Butler Olney: Christopher Alan Leman, Stephpanie Lynn Noether. Rossville; Rebecca R Miller, Valley; Brad R County; Barret Miller Brown, Logan Roanoke-Benson; Scott Lucht. Matthew A O'Shaughnessey. Moline. Manson Northwest Webster; County; Barrett Brown. Todd Cissna Park: Matthew N Marriott. Woodlan: Patrick Padgett. Clinton Sharon B Nimke, Manson Northwest Central: Brandon W Brown. Logan Mount Carmel: Adam Martin. Prairie; Gail Joseph Phipps, Oak Webster; Jill Phillips, Montezuma; County: Carey Ann Brown, Bourbon Alexis: Timothy James McDermott. Hill; Rhea Lynn Ricker, Clinton Cody Purdum, Crestland-Creston; County; Earl James Brown. Greenup

Waterloo: Shane McNeil, Central; Kevin J Riegel, Anna Riesselman, Carroll Area; County; Kurt Jason Brown. Fulton Waltonville; Jason K McNiel, Hagerstown; Shane Ring. Brad Ritter, Charles City; Carmen County; Kenneth Holton Burdme.

Marie Schulte, Edgewood- Jessamine County; James Matthew Colesburg; Matt Seuffham, Algona; Butler, Spencer County; Brandon american FFA degree Kelsey Stansberry, Linn-Mar; Grant Campbell. Owsley County; Richard J Stuart. Walnut; Jason Thole. Dale Carman. Breckinridge County:

Starmont; Cameo Jolene Toney. John Matthew Chaliff . Rockcastle Lamoni: Loren Truelsen, Central; County; Nicholas Joe Christian. Valmeyer; Daniel D Meeker. Southridge; Carl James Rivir, East Jordan D Walther, G & G; Ann Logan County; Bethanie Clark. Midwest Central: Josh Merdian. Noble; Jessica M Robey, Western; Wenger, Wapsie Valley; Grant Apollo; Kelly Rae Clark, Jessamine Midland; Mark M Mueller. Jodee R Ruppel. North Manchester; Woodley, Clarion-Goldfield; County; John Thomas Cole. Fulton Valmeyer; Sarah J Muench, Cissna Alexander Schaefer, Hope; Tina KANSAS: Amanda Sue Anstine. County; Darren Depp. Barren Park: Joel Musser. Pearl City; Jayna Schebler, South Ripley; Troy F Arkansas City; Julie Barker, County; Jason E Dotson. Heath; Ohnemus. Payson; Nate Olson. Schipper. North Miami; Jennifer Arkansas City; David Bosch, Ryan Drane. Breckinridge County:

Seneca: Gregory Edward Pritchard. Schwartz. South Adams; Charlie Neodesha; Jill Casten. Marais des Jarrod Ryan Fritz. Fleming County: Hinckley-Big Rock; Philip L Read. Shideler, Eastbrook; Deborah Simon, Cygnes Valley; Clint Church. Iola; Chris Gabbard. Owsley County; Midland; Kathi Reed, Rochelle; Jade Huntington North; Christina M Sorg, Jeff Claycamp, Hillcrest; Michael Charles Brent Gatton. Muhlenberg Elissa Robinson, Pope County; Kreg Huntington North; Joni Sprunger, Thomas Clayman, Haven; Bethany North; John Gibson, Todd Central: Ruhl. Galva; Nathan Apel Sasse, South Adams; Michael Joseph Rose Coslett. Chaparral; Dustin Clint Hardy, Apollo; Alan Fray Lincoln; Nicole Seggebruch, Cissna Stillwell. Clinton Prairie; Nathan deBoer. Valley Heights; Travis Hubble, Lincoln County; Matthew Park; Sarah Elizabeth Smith. Mount Stuckey, North Daviess; Jesse J Devlin, Smith Center; Scott M Wayne Ingram, Bath County: Jarrod Vemon: Karl R Steiner. Cissna Park; Studebaker. Rossville; Daniel E Doyle, Holton; Kevin Elliott. Heath Jackson. Caldwell County;

Damn Thies. Trico; James Sturgeon. Hagerstown; Matt Subler. Chapman; Paul Erichsen. Chapman; Willard Warren Jackson III. Todd Weisenberger. Liberty; Amy A Wild, South Adams; Denise Mae Swim. Jennifer R Figgins, Mankato; Bruce Central; Timothy R Karrer. Spencer Waterloo: Eugene R Wulf. Cloverdale; Timothy D Taufmann, Fox, Holton; Nick Frankenbery. County; Ron Knott. Apollo; Anthony Abingdon; David B Zettler, Du Rushville; Lesley Taulman, Tri- Altoona; Claudia A Goering, Hagan Koch. Bourbon County; Quoin; Greg Zick. Iroquois West; County; Jonathan Taylor. Western Moundridge-Hesston; Brent Goss, Matthew R Koch. Bourbon County:

INDIANA: Nick Adams, Pike Boone; Melissa R Thieme. Garden City; Robert E Gossen, Danny Leonard II. Apollo: Hannah Central: Kyle D Bailey, Fairfield: Bellmont; Faith Turnpaugh. South Neodesha; Sarah B Grant, Arkansas Rose Lovell. Muhlenberg South; Jeffrey Scott Bales, Whiteland; Kent Newton; Craig Weisman. Pike City; Marci Jo Grover, North Barry Joe Mallory. Franklin L Beeson. Whiteland; Brian A Central; Amy R Welp. Forest Park; Central; Adam Loring Jefferis. Simpson; Francie McCuiston. Heath: Berning. Heritage; Scott Robert Lee Ann Williams, Fountain Central; Chaparral; Kurt Kathrens, Holton; Rodney Mercer. Breckinridge Biggs, Cloverdale; Keli Michele Mark Wischmeier, Seymour; Ralph Steve Kempke. Garden City; County; Joshua Dwayne Mitcham. Brubaker, Huntington North: Kyle Henry Wischmeier, Brownstown Matthew Brian Kerr. Iola; Garratt Breckinridge County; Richard Kent Douglas Bymaster. North Central; Kimberly LYocum, Locke. Arkansas City; Jodi Mason. Moore. Butler County; David Montgomery; Azure Clark, Benton Whiteland; IOWA: Tammy Sue Chapman; Colleen McNally, South Murphy, Apollo; David Central; Rodney T Copeland, Barnes, Anamosa; Anthony Daniel Barber; Amy Metzinger. Arkansas O'Donoghue, Breckinridge County: Whiteland: Tyson Crandall, Orleans; Boevers, Wapsie Valley; Andy City: Rick Nelson, Iola; Justin Jonathan Garrett Oaks. Pendleton Tyler Steven Dawson, Heritage; Bolton, Alburnett; Karen Elaine Newland, Neodesha; Kelly Vauaghn County; Kristin Danielle Pollock.

Kevin Michael Days, Dekalb; Trisha Bolton, Alburnett; Kelli J Bormann, Overmiller. Smith Center; Bradley J Breckinridge County: Lisa Jordan D Demerly, Tri-County; Aaron Northeast; Paul Brandt, Oelwein; Porter. Holton; Bryce D Porter. Powell, Henderson County: Wesley Dunn, Clinton Central; Krista Ann Corey J Brink, G & G; Clinton S Holton; Ryan Roloff, Atchison E Purcell, Bourbon County; Echterling, Lakeland; Eric Michael Brown, Crestland-Creston; Waylon Emenhiser, Woodlan; Joe Fortman, Jay Brown, Saint Ansgar; Chad M Woodlan; Josh Gerber, South Carlson, Cascade; Nicole Claeys, Adams; Chris Geswein, North Central; Jaylin Aric Dahlhauser, Katie Ralph. Scott County: Michael Jamie Marie Gasper. Saranac; Jaclyn Fronning. Fergus Falls; Robert County; MISSOURI: Melanie D H Rider. Central Hardin; Lisa Carol C Godley. Breckenridge; Abby Fronning, Fergus Falls; Jeff Gartner. Acklin, Nodaway-Holt; Joshua E Butler Robbins. Breckinridge Gordon, Saline; Shannon Harris, Maple River; James M Gerdes, Alig, Pleasant Hill R-III; Adam County; Jason Dale Royalty. Central Ovid-Elsie; Walter Joseph Iciek, Mountain Lake; Holly Marie Geyer, Arnold, El Dorado Springs; Michael Hardin; Sarah Nicole Sallee, Central Gladwin; Amanda Karsten, Benson; Dan Glessing, Howard Ash, California; Josh Atkinson, Hardin; Zethaniel Dean Shepherd, Laingsburg; Corrine Karsten. Lake-Waverly-Winsted; Nancy Guse, Archie; Troy Joseph Bader, Prestonsburg; Christi Shawn Laingsburg; Jennifer Marie Lee. Maple River; Melissa Harms, Campbell; Katherine Baker, West Stafford, Jessamine County; Jeffrey Laingsburg; Jennifer Lyn Leininger. MacCray-KMS; Nicholas Ronald Plains; L Todd Banner, Eldon; Carl Stamper, Wolfe County; Waldron; Joshua D Miller, Ovid- Hartwig, Waconia; Barbara Heinze. Valerie Kae Barker, Liberal; Greg Bradley Eric Stephen, Apollo; Katie Elsie; Brian Michael Passalacqua, Belgrade-Brooten-Elrosa: Shelly E Baumann, Savannah; Keith Baxter, M Stinnett, Jessamine County; John Perry; Dennis L Peterson, Hesse, Chaska; Matthew David Hill. Logan-Rogersville; Clint Behm. Patrick Tabor, Todd Central; Joseph Cassopolis; Lisa Posthumus, Lowell; Blue Earth; Tiffany D Hill, Willmar; Sweet Springs; Adam Bieri. John Tabor, Todd Central; Neil Alan Lori Ann Preston. Branch Area Tyson Kenneth Hill, Willmar; Tony California; Lancer T Blair, Salem; Taylor, Owsley County; Roy Justin Career Center; Peter Julius Remenar, Hoen, Waconia; Wendy Anne Jasper. Raymond H Blevins, Lakeland; Taylor. Fulton County; Willie Ovid-Elsie; Martin Corliss LeRoy-Ostrander; Brian Joyer, Daniel L Bockhold, Dexter; Thompson. Fleming County; Robert Schlicher. Laingsburg; Phillip Smith. Forest Lake; Mandy Marie Meredith Ann Booth, Columbia;

E Todd II, Henderson County; Laingsburg; Sara Springsteen. Kidrowski. Willmar; Dawn Marie Melissa L Boston, Slater; Amanda Raglena E Turpin. Madison Central; Dowagiac; Jacqueline Swihart. Klucas. Benson; Nathan Kuball, Bowles, Miller; Daniel Bowles, Dustin Matthew Vinson, Caldwell Vicksburg; Amy Tomasek. Byron; Waterville-Elysian-Morristown; North Central Area Vo-Tech; Eric

County; Erin Briana Woodall. Scott Joan VanDenBrink. Coopersville; Shannon Kuball. Waterville-Elysian- Brandt, Linn; J Dustin Braschler, County; LOUISIANA: Jacob Talton Sherry Walter. Ovid-Elsie; Nicholas Morristown; Joni Kunz, Maple Doniphan; Heath Brooks, Holden;

Barron. Saline; B J Hood. Saline; Jon Wendhng. New Lothrop; Adam River; Kara E Ladlie, Albert Lea; Chad Michael Brotherton. amencan

Peter J Lammers, Southland; Richie Chillicothe; Jennifer Lynn Brown, Laumann, Waconia; Darin M Greenfield: Keith Edward Madson. Glenville; Hector Matthys. Brueggemann, Union; Seth M Lakeview; Dan M McClurg, USC; Bruffett. Jasper; Jeffrey T Buckman.

Orlend Henry Menze II, Audrain County R-VI; Luke

Minnewaska; Andrew J Meuleners, Burbank, Brookfield; Michael Casey, Watertown-Mayer; David Moritz, Thayer; Joel B Clark. Versailles; Elk River; David Nelson. Norman Stephen Claypool, Ashland; Nancy County West; Sara Obermoller, Nichole Cope. Montgomery Co R-

Sioux Valley-Round Lake-Brewster; 2; Korissa Cox, North Harrison; Ty Brandi Olson. Blue Earth; Chris Aaron Crain, Eldon; Amy Sue Ovrebo. Norman County West; Rick Cribbs, Pleasant Hope; Brian Proehl, Maple River; Paul Cunningham, Milan; Travis W Rauenhorst, Blue Earth; Jarred Cunningham, Marion County; Addie Walter Rotz, Elk River; Aaron Michele Davis, Chillicothe; Jennifer Rudningen. MacCray-KMS; Scott Davis, Puxico; Mary Elizabeth Runge, St James; Amanda Kay Davis, Van-Far R-l; Daisey Sazama. Perham; Rita Marie Diederich. Ashland; Joshua David Schaefer, Frazee-Vergas; Jennifer Dix, Tipton; Audrey L Dixon, Ash Scharpe, Sibley East; Kelly Grove; Brandon Duff, Buffalo; Kyle Raymond Schmidt. Tracy; Michael D Durham, Norborne; Robert W Jason Philip Richard. Central Claire Wentz, Corunna; Rachel A David Scott, Tracy; Jason Smith. Elkins. Doniphan; Jeremy L Ellis, Lafourch; Donnie Toms. Saline; Weyer. Lapeer Vo-Tech; Robb A Fulda; Stacy Soderstrom, Mora; Maysville; Joe Ellison, Brookfield Erica Layne Vincent, Midland; Weyer, Lapeer Vo-Tech; John Mark Theodore Sommerfeld, Sleepy R-3; Crystal LeAnn Emory. Salem; MAINE: Nicholas T McCrum, Mars Whitmore, Ithaca; Aaron M Eye; Trescha S Steeke, Perham; Cory Erwin, Nevada; Dana Kay

Hill; Taylor Lee Putnam Jr. Presque Williams, Homer; Jessica Mae Sheldon W Stevermer, USC; Dean Farmer. Polo; Jason Lee Foland, Isle; Ryan Clyde Shaw, Mars Hill; Williams, St Louis; MINNESOTA: W Traver, Waconia; Nichole Tyrrell, Worth Co; Nathan Forkner. Nevada;

Kenneth Stewart, Presque Isle; Angela Bakeberg, Howard Lake- Staples-Motley; Adam Volz, Joseph Golden, Cole County- MARYLAND: Tammy Sue Green, Waverly-Winsted; Brad Baumgardt, MacCray-KMS; Lorene F Eugene; Jack Graham, Salem; Catoctin; Diane Elizabeth Ogg. Sleepy Eye; Teresa Berg, Norman Wegscheid, Perham; Angie B Weis, Joseph Allen Graham. Memphis; Frederick; Jennifer Suzanne Seiss. County West; Bernhard M Birr, Pine Island; Aaron Widboom, Ronnie W Grass. Ste Genevieve; Catoctin; Jessica Lorraine Troxell. Maple River; Brent Lynn Braaten, Worthington; Holly Ann Wildman, Richard Charles Green II, Memphis: Catoctin; Mark Richard Valentine, Minnewaska; Daniel Caughey, Belgrade-Brooten-Elrosa; Tracy Jeff Grimm, Aurora; Brian Joseph

Catoctin; MICHIGAN: Eric- Brainerd; Connie Lynn Cihlar, Winter, Fulda; Matthew J Wolle, St Hagg, North Platte; Daniel Hand. Anderson. St Louis; Russell Minnewaska; Natasha Cronen, James; Kelly Sue Zenk, Murray Eldon; Sarah Hans, Montgomery Co Bloomer, Unionville-Sebewaing; Benson; Jeremy Dabcrkow, County Central; Christina L Zutz, R-2; Alan Harris. California; James Carrie Chrisinske, Byron; Liz Southwest Star Concept; Laurie A Kimball: MISSISSIPPI: Michael Garrett Hawkins. Appleton City; Confer, Perry; Elizabeth L Conrad. Delaney, Perham; Chad Domino, Elk Bradley Blue, West Jones; Katrina Rachelle Hawks. Greenfield; Amanda Heard, Slater; Dana Lenawee Vo Tech ; Jennifer Daniels, River; Darren Wayne Fank. Bold; Buckhaults, South Jones; Kenny Whittemorc-Prescott; Kelly Davis, Scott M Fank. Bold; Jessica Fettig, Hall, Nettleton; Matthew Johnson, Michelle Hellwig, Appleton City: Ithaca; Matt Wesley Davis, Ithaca; Minnewaska; Lisa Fischer, Maple Netleton; Erin Noll, Lawrence Jeremy Henderson, Gallatin; Tina Carrie Dillon, North Adams; River; Becca R Friesen, USC; Brad County; Charles E Raybum, Mae Hensley, Sarcoxie; Johnathan R Stephanie M Eickholt, New Lothrop; Fronning. Fergus Falls; Mathew Lawrence County; Courtney Amber Hesemann, Owensville; David Scoggin, Newton Municipal Career Heusing, Pleasant Hope; Joseph B Center; Elizabeth Anne Smith, South Hibdon, Versailles; Christie L Panola; John Markham Smith, South Hieber, El Dorado Springs; Nicholas Panola; Shane Speights, Lawrence A Hill, Sweet Springs; ;

Amanda Marie Hocker, Pleasant Hill Columbia; Andrew Jacob Rohrbach, Chinook; Julie Lynnetc Melton R-1II; Amanda Hofmann, North California; Katie Rooney, Denton; Martha Jo Ostendorf. Miles Harrison: Levi Holmes, Wheaton; Chillicothe; Tiffany Nicole Rouse, City; Justin William Overcast. Quincy Honan, Northwest Technical Houston; Jason Russell, Brookfield Chinook; Duane C Ray, Big Sandy; School: David Hope, Cole Camp; R-3; Christopher Lee Ryan, Milan; Annie Lynn Rein, Big Timber; Eric Sheri L Hopkins, Magnet East; Beth A Schalk, Cameron; Aaron Robinson, Shields Valley; Shaundra Tiffany Hope Hopkins. Fair Play; Schmidt, Hermann; Anthony Schaff, Stillwater Valley; LeRoy E Timothy Horn, Stet; Benjamin R Schreiner, Chillicothe; George Schallenberger, Carter County; Brad Huber, Golden City: Michelle Lyn Schulze, Warrenton; Kyle Search, Wright, Cascade; NEBRASKA: Hull, Van-Far; C Brooks Hurst. Milan; Megan K Seufert, Smithville; Heather Adams. Scottsbluff: Heath Tarkio; Correy Jackson, Marshall; Terry Shepherd, Aurora; Brad Alan Lucas Ahrens, Ravenna; Bryce Trevor Jenkins, Rich Hill; Brian Shockley, Buffalo; James Keith Anderson. Gothenburg; Melanie M Johnson. Savannah; Justin Johnson. Shortridge, Monroe City R-l; Jamie Anderson, Lyons-Decatur; Joe Lebanon; Caleb M Jones, California: M Simmons, New Bloomfield; Paul Baumert, Howells-Clarkson; Eric L

John R Kennedy Jr, Halfway; Susan Sitze, Woodland: Jackie Skipper, Beard, Superior; Randy Benson. D Kennedy, Pleasant Hill R-III: Chillicothe; Jason Thomas Smith. Newman Grove; Amy Boettcher, Vincent Neil Kerperien. Campbell; Salem; Matthew Scott Smith. West Holt; Annie Boettcher, West Aaron Kincaid, Stet; Crystal L Trenton; Brady Smotherman, Holt; Aric Wade Brandt, Tri County; Koelling, Hermann; Travis Alan Nevada; Casey Spencer, DeKalb; Julie M Brester, Howells-Clarkson; Kramme. Owensville; Brian E Bobby Spoonster, Warrenton; Kent A Jeff D Brooks, Republican Valley; Kraus, Memphis; Douglas Kueker, Stoumbaugh, Richland; Tracy M Keith D Brooks. Republican Valley; Sweet Springs; Matt Kueker, Strange. Salem; Jared Struzick, Charlote Brugman. Palmyra: Erik E

Marshall; Matthew Charles Learner. Pleasant Hill R-III; Amy Sullivan, Burken, Blue Hill; Sally Bush. Polo; Jessica L Lebo. Salem; Robbie Cameron; Timothy W Sutton, Franklin; Christopher Caddy. Sutton; Lefevre, Bronaugh; Crystal Libbert. Gilman City; Crystal Lea Swihart, Jamie Carlson, Chappell: Christy New Bloomfield; Brooke Linebaugh, Mount Vernon; Brian R Tarr, Clarke, Broken Bow; Leigha Marie North Nodaway; Luke Norborne; Tim Thomas, Memphis; Cline, Franklin: Nathan R Cole. Linnenbnnger. North Callaway; Cari Bradley Thompson, Ste Genevieve; Republican Valley: Sheryl Colgan. Livengood. North Nodaway: Jennifer Lance Harding Thompson, North Bend; Anthony Collins. Lynne Logue, Archie; Stephen Russellville; Trisha L Timmerberg, Gothenburg; Jeff Cook, Kimball: Lowes, Perryville; Luke Mahsman. Hermann; Michael Tipton. Macon; Steve R Coufal. Howells-Clarkson: Palmyra; Aaron Bradley Marshall, Mark Triplett. Memphis: Carrie Matthew Cox. Norfolk; Cindy M Maysville R-l: Ben Martin, St Clair; Tubbs. Mound City; Kyle Tubbs. Crocker. Republican Valley; Derrick Clint David Mason. Hardin-Central; Mound City; Braden Turner. Damrow. Diller; Dan Davis. Kendra Gail Bill Masoner, North Smithville; Shawn Michael Van Chappell: Bryan Deaver. Ansley; Platte: Brian Matthews, Cole Sandt. Adrian R-III; Carmen Nichole Matthew Dickinson. Seward; Dustin County-Eugene; James Caleb May, Vandegrift, Everton; Regan R Dobesh, East Butler: Curtis G Grundy County R-V; Brandi Nicole Weatherly. Aurora; Amber R Dowding. Palmyra; Neal E Dueker. McCann. Mount Vernon; Lizzi Westhues, Glasgow; Keith B Bayard; Kyle David Eisenhauer. McClellan. Carthage; Glenn Thomas Wingard, Pleasant Hill R-III; Alex Bloomfield; Jeremy Elder, Fairbury; McDonald, Mount Vernon; Jeremy Wolgamott. East Newton; Emily Heidi Erickson, Ravenna; Jim Fanta. McEwen, North Shelby: Curtis Elizabeth Wood, North Shelby; St Paul: Jim Fanta, St Paul; Craig McGill, Dadeville; Brandon Howard David Ellis Wormington, Monett; Fix, Norris; Heidi A Frahm-Farrall. McLagan. Pleasant Hill R-III; Caleb Mona Gayle Wright. Mount Vernon; Blue Hill: Aaron John Franzen. Mease. Galena; Amy Melton, Charles Wuertley. Summersville; Gothenburg: Bnanne Freeman. Ord: Dadeville; Mandy Melton, Brian Arthur Yardley, Fayette; Nancy Timothy E Friesen. Heartland; Travis Dadeville; Brent Meyer, Lewis Lynn Yates, Monroe City R-l Friesen, Heartland: Brady Marie County C-l; Jamie Miller, Aurora; Joshlin Yoder, North Shelby; Randall Fritz. Wilber-Clatonia; Erin Angela Keith Miller, Mound City; Kelvin Yokley, Bronaugh R-7; Kevin C Fujan, Prague; Cory Allen Miller, Versailles; Lloyd Robert Young. Halfway; Summer Nicole Furstenau, Neligh-Oakdale; Dana Morgan, Memphis; Gary Don Young. Sarcoxie; Kenneth Clay Geisler. Ravenna; Glenda Gill. Morris, Eldon; Ryan A Morris, Youngblood, Carthage; Blooomfield; Jon Graham. Stanberry; Deanne Kaye Moss. Mark MONTANA: Chris Bengochea. Randolph; Joni Griess. Sutton: Kyle Twain; Crystal G Nickles, Salem; Culbertson; Turk Bossert, Park; Levi Christopher Hain. Seward; Ginger Ronnie Nix, Mountain Grove; T J Brinkerhoff, Stevensville; Garrett Hartman. Imperial: Simon Haumont.

Null, Woodland; Jeff O'Neal, Costello, Shields Valley; Kelly Rae Broken Bow; Bradley J Hilfiker, Hardin-Central; Catherine M Pardun, Dodge. Park; Christie Flechsenhar, Hartington: Troy Hilligas. Hampton:

Gilman City; Tracy Renee Parkhurst, Cascade; Kelly Fosbery, Flathead; Tyson J Holm. Gothenburg; North Harrison; Matt L Parpart, Tandi Fulbright, Denton; John Christopher Loren Huber. Sutton:

Archie; Jeremy Pendleton, Mount Douglas Goodheart, Conrad; Adam Cody J Hudson. Imperial: Brian Vernon; Brian Petty, Archie; Justin Tyler Grigsby, Conrad; Joni Hula. East Butler: Darcy Hynek.

Michael Pollard, Polo; Chad Porter, Hendricks, Carter County; Tenneil Fairbury; Margo Marie Irish. Logan-Rogersville; Robin Renee Denise Hirsch, Miles City; Jason Norfolk; Kimberly Jo Jelken.

Poss, Richmond; Christina Marie Williams Jimmerson, Conrad; Ben J Franklin: Randy L Jensen. Hampton: Reints, Sarcoxie; Floyd Ben Renner, Larson, Columbus; Kimberly Ann Josh Johnson. Hampton; Lukas East Newton; Jeffery A Riley, Leslie, Miles City; Mitzi Liddle, David Jones. Falls City: Ethan Joy. Hermann; Nick Robertson, New Madrid Co AVTS; Brandy Robison, Polo; Kelley Christine Rohlfing, Nebraska City; Stacy Ann Julesgard, Schuyler; Aaron Wissenburg, Lucia Upchurch, Bartlett Yancey; Lisbon; Luke Meyer, Lisbon; Northwest; John V Juricek, Crete; Newman Grove; Kristina Marie Justin Waller, South Rowan; Ronnie Melissa Montgomery, Carrington; Jason Kassmeier, Scribner-Snyder; Woita. Northwest; Ryan Wollberg. Stephen Willis, Bartlett Yancey; Lee Novak, Minot; Jonathan Qual. Jess R Kirchhoff, Syracuse-Dunbar- Scribner-Snyder; Annie Zabokrtsky. NORTH DAKOTA: Ryan Ames, Lisbon; Shane Allen Reardon, Avoca; Jason Paul Knott, Newman Fairbury; Chad A Zimmerman, Tri Lisbon; Lorissa Benson. Maddock; Medina; KariAnn Love Seeger, Grove; Dustin Koch, Gothenburg; County; NEVADA: Jessica Rae Ryan Bernstein, Bottineau; Amy Turtle Lake-Mercer; Jon S Solberg, Greg Koinzan. Neligh-Oakdale; Allen. Mason Valley; Jennifer Bertelsen. Wahpeton; Garrett Leon Minot; Adam Spelhaug. Kindred; Matthew S Kreifels, Syracuse- Bieroth. Ruby Mountain; Joseph Bladow. Wahpeton; Amie Buck, Jennifer Kay Teigien. Rugby; Dunbar-Avoca; Zebulon S Kreifels, Andrew Chantrill, Silver Sage; Jay Wahpeton; Joshua Bummer. Divide Tammy Lynn Weigum, Beulah;

Syracuse Dunbar Avoca; Lucas J Dalton, Wells; Julia Lee Derobertis, County; Royce Carlson. Jamestown; William F White III. Turtle Lake- Krysl. West Holt; Colin Jacob Douglas; Rosey Hoskin, Douglas; Jeff Erbes. Wyndmere; Christopher S Mercer; OHIO: Rau Adae, Kubik. Cambridge; Moranda Kujath, Stephanie Jordan. Diamond Falk. Wahpeton; Grant Haugland. Blanchester; Elizabeth M Altstaetter. Fairbury; Justin Allen Kumke. Blue Mountain; Troy Jordan, Diamond Divide County; Mike Hauschild. Benjamin Logan; Matthew A Hill; Kerin Kuszak. St Paul; Bobby Mountain; Ben McKnight, Silver Wahpeton; Renae Joy Heinle, Andrews, Miami Trace; Justin D Larson. Leigh; Dale Eugene Joseph Sage; Davida RaeAnn Nash. Silver Medina; Allen Johnson, Wyndmere; Angle. Elida; D Matthew Arnold. Lassek, Genoa; Robyn Loseke. Sage; Jaime Ordonez, Silver Sage; Kenneth H Jordan. Rugby; Ross; Jeff Bader. Bloom Carroll;

Leigh; Melissa Sue Lytle. Wauneta; Marsha Sarman, Silver Sage; Christopher J Jorde. Towner; Kelly Jason Bailey, Northridge; Devin Scott Maas. Scribner-Snyder; Jessica Melissa Shue. Mason Valley; Junker, Medina; Erika Jo Kenncr. Andrew Baker, Elmwood; Rebekah L Mager. Wilber-Clatonia; Erik Melissa Elizabeth Stockton. Mason Leeds; Aaron Alan Kleingartner, C Baker. Carrollton; Mark D Mahanes. Nebraska City; Megan A Valley; RaeLynn Stoddard, Silver Gackle-Streeter; Erica Knell, Hazen; Baldwin. Greenfield-McClain; Brian McCord. Fairbury; Christopher Sage; William Flint Wright. Wells; Brad Kohoutek. Wahpeton; Nicholis W Ball. Mount Vernon; Megan Frederic Meyer, St Paul; Heather NEW HAMPSHIRE: Elizabeth Leinen. Wahpeton; Eric Mairs. Barker. Madison Plains; Lacy Lynn amencan

Mihus. Fairbury; Jennifer Miller, Kaiser, Pinkerton Academy; NEW Broken Bow; Jason R Mullenhoff. MEXICO: Marshall Alan Baker, Leigh; Karleen Ann Munderloh. Texico; Kelly Benavidez, Clayton; amencan FFA degree Scribner-Snyder; Kristin Nollette, Casey LeAnn Cunningham, Capitan; Cody-Kilgore; Bryan Nun, Geneva; Chris Daugherty, Alamogordo: Dena' Rae Olson. Franklin; Jeffrey Janelle La Dawn Duffey. Roswell; Olson. Genoa; James Oltman. Jeremy Eby, Thoreau: DeVonna Wilber-Clatonia; Heidi Marie Oman. Gatlin, Cliff; Reggie Guy, Artesia; Superior; Gale Paulsen, Chappell; Jake Hill. Artesia; Kelly J Jones. Gary Paulsen. Chappell; Tony John Clayton; Darla Mayes. Carlsbad: ffa l Paulsen. Chappell; Adam D Pavelka, Max Moya. Belen; Shyanne Jay ^can Blue Hill; Gregory J Peters, Peterson, Animas; Ryan Malcolm Heartland; Travis Petrick, Ansley; Pirtle. Roswell; Kimberly Ann Ray, Eric V Pfeiffer. Wauneta; Kevin Los Lunas; Christopher Scott. Pickhinke, Howells-Clarkson; Mindy Artesia; Damon Kyle Talbott. Plueger, Allen; Brandon Pohlmann. Roswell: Teresa Trujillo. Artesia; Tri County; Kelli Lynn Rahn. West Toni Elizabeth Utton, Aztec; Will Holt; Aron Rasmussen. St Paul; Jami Waller, Roswell; NEW YORK: Reinsch. Geneva; Joni Lee Renz. Jackie Anderson, Greenville Central; Superior; Heath Ruf. Cambridige; Katie Lynn Bear, Greenville Central; Jim R Ruggles. Republican Valley; Christy A Bensen, Greenville Rebecca Rusch, Scottsbluff; Central; Richard M Burke, Anthony W Russell, Holdrege; Schuylerville; Douglas Burleson, Matthew E Run. Blue Hill; Lisa Stockbridge Valley: Tiffany A Drape, Schaneman. Scottsbluff; Jared Madison: Chase Howard. Schemper, Holdrege; Minnie Ruth Franklinville; Jaclyn D Kropp, Schmeckpeper, Bloomfield; Timothy Greenville Central; Marcy Ann John Schneider, Cody-Kilgore; Quackenbush, Penn Yan; Windy S Jennifer Schriner, Wilcox; Dustin Rosiczkowski. South Lewis; Bryan Schroeder, Diller; Nathan Lee James Zielenieski, Pioneer; NORTH Schwab. Tri County; Joshua D CAROLINA: Clark Adams, South Sierks, Norns; Jacob W Slagle, Rowan; Kasey Austin, Eastern Sargent; Tammy Sue Stangle. Randolph; Kevin Omar Bradley, Hyannis; Brian Steffen. Hartington; Chase; Eric T Burleson. Harnett

Jeremy Stuart. Nebraska City; Chris Central; Christopher R Cauley III. Tejral, Genoa; Mary Tejral, Tri North Lenoir; Vanessa Corriher, County; Tim Thompson, Newman South Rowan; Brent Davis, North Grove: Paul C Timm, Lyons- Duplin; Bradley Ray Gorman, South Decatur; Corey Twohig, Wilcox; Joel Rowan; Becky Lynn Hines, South Uerling, Republican Valley: Lindsay Lenoir; Johnny Michael Jessup, L Waechter, Blue Hill: Lori Lakewood; Misty Dawn Lambert, Watermeier, Syracuse-Dunbar- South Rowan; James Lanier, East Avoca; Benjamin W Wertman, Duplin; Jessica Ruth Lima, North

Palmyra; Kendra Wesely, Milford; J Lenoir; Anthony Rich Marshall, D White. Broken Bow; Beverly Ann Union; Lyndsie A Muirhead, Union; Wicht. Ravenna: Ryan Wiese, Tri Jenise Ruth Smith, C B Aycock;

County; Joshua J Wilshusen, Merle Kittrell Terry, Person County; Barnes. Evergreen: Chad Barr, Hathaway, Greenville; Paul Hays. Schwendeman Jr. Warren; Brice Miranda Elayne Grissorn, Prague: Mapleton: Michael Barrett. Eaton; Molly Heal. Wilmington: Seward, Mount Vernon; Jason Sharp, George Grossman, Chouteau;

Marysville: Brian Beach. Kenton; Jana Lee Hess, Lynchburg Clay; J Sentinel Tiffin; Daren M Sheffield, George Grossman, Chouteau: Heidi Jake Beathard. Madison Plains; William Hodge. Mechanicsburg: Wellington; Kyle Shepherd, Upper Gum. Guymon; Jimmie Haffner, Robert Beekman, Talawanda; Keith Roger Hogue, Tri-Valley; Nathan Scioto Valley; Lance Shirer, Tri- Cashion; Charles Hale, Sterling; Beeler. Talawanda; Henry Benedict. Hohman, Hopewell-Loudon; Valley; Joe Siefring, Fort Recovery; Heath Hamil, Cashion; Lori Nicole Warren; Emily Brin Bisdorf, Charisse Lynn Howard. Mount Gary Small, Northridge; Michelle Hamilton, Shattuck; Kathryn L

Centerburg; Mike Black. Fairbanks; Gilead; John Huss. Woodmore; Mike Smathers, London; Lisa Smith, Hanza, Central; Michael Harris II, Brandon Michael Blair, Benjamin James. Wayne Trace; Carrie Hillsdale; Rodney Smith. Wauseon; Arapaho; Jordana Harrison. Logan; Ann Boerger. Fairbanks; Jennings. Western Brown; Jeff Stephanie Ann Smith, Centerburg; Indianola; Christopher Ryan Nate Boerger. Fairbanks; Dale Kahle, Kalida; Rachel Keener. Michelle Lee Snyder, Evergreen; Hawthorn, Cushing: Emily Haynes. Bohman. Versailles; Lisa Bolender. Northwestern-Wayne; Bradley Kevin Sox, United; Austin Specht, Kiowa; Stephen Helzer. Thomas- Western Brown; Joe Boler, Western Keller, Margaretta; Stacey Keller. Buckeye Career Center; Andy Fay-Custer; Carrie Ann Hennigh. Brown; Mark W Bonnett, Firelands; Liberty Union; Amy Kingsborough. Spiker, Tri-Valley; Gabe Sprague, Laverne; Cory Hensley, Vinita; David James Bontrager. Sheridan Old Fort; Misti Kiser, Wilmington; Oak Harbor; Aaron Stockbcrger, Keely Irene Higdon. Fletcher; Kara North; Erin Marie Brooks. Russell Henry Knight, Miami East; Northridge; Blane Stoller, Wayne Beth Hoover, Cement; Kyle House. Alexander: Jessica Brown, Ross; Heather Dawn Knisley. Greenfield- Trace: Chris Stoughton, Madison Cameron; Todd Ice. Thomas-Fay- Greg Burkholdler. Pettisville: Tanner McClain; Neal Knueven. Leipsic: Plains; Steven W Strahler, Miami Custer; Jody Jackson, Thomas-Fay- M Burns. Fairbanks; Brian A Busch. Benjamin Kramer. Eaton; Daniel Trace; Greg Strausbaugh, Elmwood: Custer: Josh Jarvis, Afton: Sherrita Bowling Green; Mark Call, Madison Kramer. Eaton; Michael J Kroeger. Taylor Andrew Stuck. Versailles; Kay Jenkins, Stillwater: Kelli Lee Plains; Josh Caplinger, Blanchester; Lincolnview; Robert Carl Krueger, Kevin Surber, Hillsboro; Nathan Lee Johnson, Wyandotte; Cray Mige Matthew Adam Carey, East Clinton: Utica; Christian Lyn LaRoche, Swendal, Danville; John Anthony Jordan, Tahlequah; Clint Justus, Sword, Wellington; Melonie Terry. Caney; Rusty Kemp. Adair; Matt W Marysville: Matthew Thayer. Kinslow. Prague; Dustin Wayne Edison; Mike Thiel. Ridgedale; Kirk. Tipton: Roger Knauss. Jeremy Tomlin. Ohio Valley Carnegie; Justin Kuykendall. Vocational; Geoffrey R Tri inner, Carnegie; Matt Landwehr. Chisholm; Willard; Heather Vaubel, Botkins; Jana Lynn Lewis, Fairland; Janesa Brian Vaughn, Wynford; Angela M Kaye Lewis. Byng; Travis Linville, Wagner, Greenville; Krista R Ward, Spiro; Jamie Marie Liston, Moore; Westfall; Angela Warnock. Elgin: Jay Lohmann. Freedom; James Lott. Seth Wenger. Benjamin Logan; Alva; Cory Lovelace. Thomas-Fay- Jonathan Carpenter. Alexander; Mount Gilead: Nicholas Layman, Brock Weston, Ridgedale; Brad Custer; Melissa Kay Lyons. John Carraher. Lynchburg-Clay; Georgetown: Henry Leitnaker, Wilhelmy. Northwestern-Wayne: Woodland; Matthew H Mann. Brice P Carroll, Wauseon; Nicki Lancaster; Jason E Lewis. Madison Kristie Lea Wilson, Symmes Valley; Checotah; Tyler Mantz. Alva; Castanien. Upper Sandusky; Andrea Plains; Bradley T Lifer, Lancaster; Kenneth Wolf, Pymatuning; Benton Homer Marrow, Heavener; Christman, Buckeye Trail; Addam Jennifer Longenecker, Franklin Kimberly K Woodard, Teays Valley; Troy Don Marshall, Harrah; Kent Cluff. Buckeye Valley: Jack Coates Monroe; Meredith Massy, Ryan Wulber, Versailles; Martin, Alva; Julie K McCarty,

III. Wellington; Kelly Lynn Conn. Northwestern-Clark; Tina Mathias, OKLAHOMA: Emalee Acre, Antlers; Matt McClellan, Elk City; Eastern Brown; Wayne Marshall Madison Plains; Josh Matthews, Canton; Derek Agan, Thomas-Fay- Joshua Edgar McDonald, Atoka; Conrad. Chief Logan; Matt Greenfield-McClain; Eric McCann, Custer; Joel Alexander, Sweetwater; Brian Mclntyre. Temple: Cody Corrington. Preble Shawnee; Holly Ohio Valley Vocational; Mike Justin Blackford, Chouteau; Adam McMurphy. Alva; David Miller. Christine Cox, Mount Gilead; McClaskie, Madison Plains; Natalie Jacob Bohl, Chattanooga; Jennifer Indianola; Daniel Moore. Chouteau: Andrew Craig, Ridgedale; Amanda Joan McElfresh-Latimer. Mid-East; Boyett, Elk City; Landon Brady, David Mosburg, Thomas-Fay- Danell Cress, Madison Plains; Darin Pearlann Hutton McNichols, Liberty Freedom; Hal Brame, Antlers; Custer; Derrick Musgrove, Cron, Miami East; Ryan Crooks. Union; Laura B Meier, Jeffrey R Brant, Sallisaw; Josh Chattanooga; Laramie Alan Joe Hardin Northern; Travis West Cupp. Mississinawa; Ashleigh Rebecca Brecheen. Coalgate; William Calvin Navrath. Cushing; Travis Nipp. Lancaster; Jason R Dallas, Laurel Miller. Liberty Union; Claire Miller, Buchanan. Pawnee; Trey A Turner; Jeremy Odenwald. Billings: Oaks; Daniel E Davis. Madison Margaretta; Jon David Miller. Carothers. Indiahoma; LeaAnn Shanda Oliver. Hennessey: Robyn Plains; Matthew Howard Deaton. Liberty Union; Malinda Miller. Castleberry, Chickasha; Ashley Ott, Fairview; Bryan Neal Overman. National Trail; Laura Leigh Dengler. River View; Rusty Edward Miller, Caulk, Hennessey; Jackie Jo Chaney. Blackwell; Michelle Lea Overman Edgewood/BCJVSD; Nick Derr, Licking Valley; Tony Miller, Wayne Copan; Shelley Choate, Hennessey; (Tripp), Blackwell; Suzanne Parsons. Upper Sandusky; Jeremy Deter, Trace; Meriah Miller-Wenger, Erik Christensen. Thomas-Fay- Battiest; Jon Patton, Kiowa: Derek Arlington: Keith Anthony Diedrick, Benjamin Logan; Brad Nicol, Custer; Kelly Christensen, Thomas- Peach, Hennessey: Seth Reeves, Keystone; Craig Matthew Draper, Fairbanks; Derek Nicol, Fairbanks; Fay-Custer; Jodi Cinnamon, Garber; Latta; Bryan Reinschmiedt, Hillsdale; Jeremy Edger, Greenville; Gretchen D Nolan, Western Reserve: Cory Clark, Miami; Stephen Thomas Hennessey; Ernest Scott Reynolds. Brett R Egbert. Anna; Lisa-Marie Adrienne C Nowels, West Holmes; Clark, Burlington; Acie Joe Conrad Prague; Michael David Richards.

Ehlerding, Wilmington; Hannelore L Matt Oestreich. Elmwood; Jake II, Spiro; Joshua M Cope, Tipton; Roland; Isaac Richardson. Arapaho: Eichhorn. Liberty Union; Rhyan Lee Osborn. Lynchburg-Clay; Bradley S Jonathan Dale Cornelius, Carter; Sommer Kendall Robbins. Navajo: Eichhorn, Miami East; Jacob Ott, National Trail; Curtis Wade Casey Brent Cox, Elgin; Jason Brooke Rockenbach, Burlington; Eilenfeld, Lucas; Kevin Dale Pahl, Carey; Kelly J Parkhurst, Crawford, Thomas-Fay-Custer; Ashley Ryel. Aline-Cleo: Tiffany

Endslow, Loudonville; Brian Ennis, Margaretta: Brad Pfeiffer. Buckeye Michael Dale Crossland. Grandtield; Sanders, Sweetwater; Bill

Alexander: David Ertl, Career Center; Ryan Phipps, Ohio J W Custer, Cushing; Jonathan Paul Scarbrough. Byng: Shawn Scott. Northwestern-Wayn; Bill Feikert, Valley; Jason Christopher Poorman, Davis, Spiro; David Paul Deskin. Thomas-Fay-Custer; Casey D Wayne County; Andrew D Fent, Sheridan North; Amy Porteus. River Lexington; Chad Wesley Dixon, Sharber. Sapulpa: Cullen Neil Shaw. Parkway; Daniel R Finfrock, View; Jonathan Purdy, Fairbanks; Vinita; Kennon D Dosher, Tipton; Antlers; Brian Simic. Garber; Brandi Tecumseh; Ben Fitzgerald, Madison Justin Reed, Tri-Valley; Matt Blake Drinnon, Thomas-Fay-Custer; Lachelle Smallwood, Antlers; Chad Plains; Greg Fortkamp, Fort Reynolds. Elmwood; Shanna Timmy Dvorak, Pawnee; Blake Scott Smith, Medford; LaRena Smith.

Recovery; Robert H Fredritz II, Rhoades, Elgin; Andy Ricketts. Edwards, Seiling; Melissa Farris, Thomas-Fay-Custer; Scott Sproul. Carey; Darla Grace French, Ridgedale; Darrick B Riggs, Okeene; Amber Nicole Ferrell, Fairview; Stacy Sproul, Fairview: Wellington; Deanna Lynn Fuller, Marysville; Dennis Roell, Preble Burlington: Bart Fischer, Scott Stephen Storey, Haworth: Buckeye Trail; Wendy Funderburgh, Shawnee; Christopher Rufenacht, Chattanooga; Darrin Fite, Thomas- Cody W Sullins. Billings; Courtney Triad; Matt Gearhardt, Miami East; Buckeye Career Center; Scott Alan Fay-Custer; Tembra Ryan Gatlin, Swart. Drummond: Travis Tacker. Jason Paul Green. Westfall; Edward Russell, Miami East; Charles R Lawton; Kelsey Deon Gee, Antlers; Mountain View-Gotebo: Jeffrey L David Gruber, United; Kelli Scheckelhoff, Miller City; Greg Gavin Geminden. Chisholm; Tyler Terrell. Kingfisher: Scott Thomason. Hamilton, Carrollton; Kevin M Scheiderer, Fairbanks; Kyle Glover, Elgin; Jeffrey Allen Goode, Perry; Adam Tibbetts. Chickasha: Haneberg, Buckeye; Frances M Schlechty, Greenville; Sara M Grandfield; Jason S Gray, Shawnee; Kristy R Troyer. Pryor; Stephanie Harker, Firelands; Brent Harpster, Schlueter, Botkins; Victoria Sue Upper Scioto Valley; Matthew Schmitmeyer. Versailles; Cindy Hartman, Arlington; Brian K Schroeder, Leipsic; Donald William

. Troyer. Adair: Brian J Unruh. Karen E Reed. Derry: Bronson L Nathan Vandersnick, Garretson; Cody Cribbs, Snyder; Troy Crow,

Okeene: Charlie O Vaughan. Elgin: Reedy. Cloister; Curtis L Reichard. Kristen Jamie Wallenstein, Comfort: Shara Davis, Livingston; J Hollie Voth. Fairview; Cyal Walden. Blue Ridge: Jamie L Risser. Cedar Harrisburg; Christina Yost. Miller: Todd Dawley, Mexia; Kristi Beth Wister; Earl Hasting Ward. Durant: Crest; Keith R Sauder, Grassland: TENNESSEE: Karen Lynn Adams, Dean, Rockdale; Summer Cheyenne Justin R oy Warren. Harrah; Cody Jennifer Lynn Walborn, Cumberland South Greene; Julie Allen, Dean, Jacksboro; Kristen Denman, Westfahl. Drummond; Bret W Valley: Jessica R Weaver, Grassland; Dyersburg: Josh Baker. Warren Calallen; Jamie Lynn Dillard, White. Cushing: Jim Worthan. Keith Weaver. Hans Herr; Kendra County; Daniel Batson, East Waskom; Ashley Dittert, Hennessey; Stephen Brandon Joy Weaver. Cloister; Joann Young. Robertson; Daniel Calvert, East Schulenburg; John Ellebracht, East Wright. Cushing: Jerrad Yates, Elk Solanco; Luke J Zerby. West Snyder; Robertson; Adam David Comer, Central; Clint Feagin, Farmersville; City: OREGON: Kim Becker. Dale A Zimmerman, Cloister; Riverside; Wesley Crowder. Jackson Raymond Curt Feagin. Farmersville; Union: Beth Ann Beckett. Douglas; Jeffrey S Zimmerman, Cedar Crest; Central; Brent Dorris, East Ty Funderburk, Sulphur Springs; Nicholas C Blake. Molalla Union; Joanne Zimmerman, Cloister; Robertson; Eric Farrow, Johnson Jessica Greenway. Farmersville; David F Blythe. Molalla Union: RHODE ISLAND: Kimberly Anne County; Jason Fletcher, Anderson Kristy Lynn Haisler, Smithville: Cory Jo Bunch, Crook Co: Matthew Del Deo, Chariho; Dennis A Etchells County; Elizabeth Gardner Forsyth, Sarah Harris, Tilden County; Kevin

W Calef. Central; J D Cant. Imbler; Jr. Scituate; Amy C Fountain, Humboldt; Rachel Freudenthal, Hattermann, Weimar; Lance Heger, Matthew E Debrick, Crater; Chariho: Erin Joy Fountain, Chariho; Portland; Tim Gann. Warren County; Weimar; Lisa Jon Hensley,

Stephanie Edwards. Dayton; Seth J Nathan Hebert, Scituate; Steven C Glen Gaugh, Jackson Central; Levi Livingston; Russell Herzik. Weimar;

Elkington. McLoughlin; Justin Otto, Scituate; Devon Marie Wilcox, Gentry, Dyersburg; Jonas Wade Brandon Hill. Arlington Martin; Ferguson. Scio; Trevor Lee Chariho; SOUTH CAROLINA: Gillespie. Forrest; Steven Wesley Brian Daniel Hinkel. Mayde Creek; Ferguson. Molalla Union; Wayne Donald Craig Brown, B J Skelton Hall, Johnson County; Lewis Head, Wesley Travis Holekamp, Comfort;

Fins, Central; Renee S Gilmore, Career Center; Kimberly Grace East Robertson: Mark A Holland II, Harold Wayne Hornback. Humble;

Canby; Lynnsay Hagerty, Madras; Green, Manning; Phillip Mauley Johnson County; James Holloran Jr. Wade Hudspeth, Pilot Point: Rachael

Sara Hale, Tillamook; Chandra Long, Crescent: Michael T Martin Northeast: Jill Howard. McMinn Hunter, Winona; Mandy Jackson.

Hickam. Vale; Cindi Husbands, Jr, Walhalla; John F McGee. County; Annie Hughes, Dyersburg; Huffman; John Carl Jensen, Union: Willie Thomas Huston. Pine Crescent; Vince Pace. Britton's Jeremy Blake Hughes, Warren Lueders-Avoca; Mark Nathan Eagle; Brett Jeter, Redmond; Aaron Neck: Iris Peeler, Crescent; Richard County; Justin Johnson, East Jousan, Joaquin; Kristy Judd. Johnson, Knappa: Alexa Johnson, Pitts, Britton's Neck; Robertson; Trey Lawrence, Forrest; Aubrey; Dawson Everett Kaiser, amencan

Vale; Roxanne Elizabeth Johnson. SOUTH DAKOTA: Casey Aldrich. Brian Lewis, Eagleville; William Columbus; Will Kiker, Anson; Travis

Molalla Union; Jared J Kerr. De Smet; Tiffany Anderson. Lowe, Portland; Kevin Luton, Klaus, Pleasanton; Joshua W Klein,

Bonanza: Jerry Kimlinger. Molalla Lemmon: Arch E Beal Jr, Northeast; Josh Harold Maners, Comfort; Wade Koehl. Round Top- Union; Amber Kirby, Union; Harrisburg; Jessica Beisch, Webster; Riverside; Michelle McCoig, Warren Carmine; Hollie Lynn Langley. Jeremiah Koop, Gervais; Abraham Willie Bender, Menno; Marty County; Darren Ross McDaniel, Winona; Nicholas Laskowski, Poth; Watson Kraxberger. Molalla Union; Bertsch, Miller; Heidi M Bruner, Lexington; Wendy Dawn Moles. Charles R Lewis, Mabank; Kristi Joshua A Legg, Weston-McEwen; Howard; Paul T Burns. Harrisburg; Anderson County; Jon Michael Mahaffey. Pasadena; Daniel Mata,

Michael Lorenzen. Dayton; Sara J Kayleen Chipman, Huron; Nathan Moore. Halls; Amanda Catherine Wortham; Brent Matthys. Hubbard: Mickelsen, Canby; Amanda Muhr, DeBulten. Harrisburg; Matthew Myracle, Riverside; Karen Hillary John Jacob McEntee. Garland; Trent Newberg; David L Neese. Henley: DeMent, McCook Central; Jesse Newsom, Dyersburg; Grace E Page, McKnight, Throckmorton; Jody Stephanie Perrin, Canby; Matt Petty, Feller, Menno; Aaron Kent Frerichs, Dyer County; Ralph G Ramey. Miller, Booker; Monte J Mokszycki, Tillamook: Amy Elizabeth Reilly, Wilmot: David Hackrott, Harrisburg; Midway; Bradley Richardson. Lewisville; Andrea Michelle Moses Molalla Union; Leonard Rossner, Brennan Hauk, Philip; Tanse Culleoka; Samantha Ridenour, Strand. Denton; Ryan Mott. Quanah; McMinnville; Bethany Santos, Michael Herrmann, Chamberlain: Anderson County; Matt Ross, Dyer Andrew Shane Mutina. Pearland; Glide: Angela Kristine Sargent. Derek Hlavacek. Florence; Chris County; Julie Elizabeth Shew, Douglas James Noll, Falls City; Pete North Clackamas; Jayne Michelle Howard, Miller; Steve Janish. De Riverdale; Joseph Rex Shrader, Papwelek, Pleasanton; Crystal Shelden. LaGrande; Maxson Richard Smet: Raymond A Johnson. De Jefferson County; Lila Therese Perriraz, Calallen; Tamara Pickard, Sherman. Canby; Tyson Ray Shirley. Smet; Daniel Kannegieter. Willow Singleton, Lexington; Ernest Charles Scurry Rosser; Terri Poppe, Weimar; Joseph; Jason Paul Stubbs. Creswell; Lake: Paul Kellogg. Gettysburg; Snapp, Volunteer; Barry Turns, East Kimberly Renee Reich, Cisco; Angie VanDyke, Forest Grove; Mike Kilian, Gettysburg; Randy Robertson; Douglas Harold Weller, Vernon Rerich. Weimar; Wayne Shawna Webb, Dayton: Erica Anne Marc Kringen, Garretson; Clinton South Greene; Chad Wilson, Richards, Coldspring; Carilee Wood, Lebanon; Ryan Zollman. Matthews, Webster; Rachel Mehlhaf. Portland; Lance K Wright, Anderson Robbins. Bandera; Mark Roznovsky. Enterprise; PENNSYLVANIA: Menno; Kathleen Mickel, Rapid County; Ronald Wyatt, Riverside; Calallen; Robert Sanchez Jr, Cotulla; Charles T Aurentz, Cedar Crest; City; Sheri Lee Moeller, Brookings: Clint Young, Dyer County; TEXAS: Stacy Leanne Brown Schertz. Matthew Phillip Coleman. Frank B Moser, Rapid City; Stacy R Stephanie Abbott, Cooper: Mathew Ponder; Greg Schilling, Slaton; Brothersvalley; Travis Edward Mueller, Milbank; Luke Muller, Adamitz, Pleasanton; Emily Marjean Kelly Renae Schneider, Rogers; Donough. Manheim; Philip C Eby, Florence; Jason Nagel, Gettysburg; Ashby, Henderson; Luis Antonio Robert Schubert, Lexington; Hans Herr: Ryan L Groff. Manheim; Kara Nagel, Gettysburg; Nicholas S Ayala, Cotulla: Heather Ann Aycock, Nicholas Travis Seaton, Meadow; Darrell E Heagy, Northern Lebanon; Nielson, Lennox-Sundstrom; Tyler McKinney; Brad Batson, Barbers Clifton Shearrer, Pleasanton; James

Lynette J Heffner, Conrad Weiser; Paulson, Florence; Kelly Gene Hill; Sabrina Beard, Big Sandy; Wade Siebman, Bowie; Jarred Ray Joy Noel Hess, New Oxford; Preston Rasmussen. Rapid City; Shane Reis. Jimmy Birkhead. Rockdale; Tonya Smith. Troy; Bee Jay Squires, E Hoopes, Headwaters; Nathan H Chamberlain; Lura Kate Robison. Blaylock, Hull Daisetta; Jennifer Odem; Scott Stedje, Grower; Megan Jamison, United; Justine E H Newell; Nathan B Sanderson, Lake Bourquin, Sandra Day O'Connor; C Teel, Bryan; Cody Timmons, Kreider. Solanco; Nathan S Kreider. Preston: Mike Schock, McCook Ryan Paul Brandt, Weimar; Kasey Motley County; Lauri Vaughn.

Solanco; Nicholas J Kreider. Central; Jim Schroeder, Tulare: Brightwell, Henderson; Jason Brod, Cooper; Kirby Watson, Katy; Jeff Solanco; Andrew Daniel Martin, Adam P Sletten, Canton; Michael Sealy; Linda Brown, Tilden; Weber. Pilot Point; April Westbrook, Cedar Crest: Kenneth L Martin, Lee Strohschein, Newell; Jared Timothy Wayne Buhler, Columbus; Baytown Sterling; Kristie Williams, Grassland; Jodi Corinne Moist, West Tolzin, De Smet; Darrick John Van Chris Caninenberg, Liberty; Lucy Katy; Marcus Williams, Salado; Snyder: Constance Nolt, Cloister; Dyke, Wessington Springs; Timothy Michelle Canter, Tomball; Kelsey M Will Winter, Idalou; Jonathan Caleb Nicole S Over. Northern Bedford; Vanderham, Alceslcr-Hudson; Christian, Huntsville; Wolfe. Northwest; Gerrit Young, Tomball: UTAH: Jill Anderson, Central; Clint Lyle, Buffalo Gap; Plymouth; Jennifer Lee Ben/, Green Ostrowski, Amherst; Beth Ann Lone Peak: Michael Archibald, Bear Brian P Reiter, Dinwiddie; Mark Bay Preble; Seth Berg, Pulaski; Plan/, Waupaca; Ryan M Powers. River: Neil Bailey, Weber; Bjarn S Stephen Reiter, Dinwiddie; Roger Jason R Bcrnick, Spencer; Bill Lake Mills; Dustin George Raddatz, Bearnson, Spanish Fork; Jonathon Lee Riggleman Jr. Stonewall Biadasz, Amherst; Scott C Boatman, Oshkosh West; Travis Radloff,

Bell. Payson: Micah Wayne Capener, Jackson; Mark E Sutphin, James Darlington; Karl E Bobholz Jr, Omro; Matthew D Reindcrs. Bear River; Jeremy Cowley, Wood; Kathryn E Threewitls, Randolph; Jesse Thomas Bollinger, Johnson Creek; Jill Reinke. Bonduel: Richfield: Tori Lee Ferguson. Spotswood; William Lewin Walther, Cochrane-Fountain City; Jason Amanda M Riley. Waupaca: Payson: Jeffry Gittins, Sky View; Turner Ashby; Todd White, Adam Bork, Cochrane-Fountain Michelle Rivamonte, Oconto Falls; Lynn Godfrey. Bear River: Chris T Broadway; WASHINGTON: Neil City; Mary J Bork, Weyauwega- Emily M Roidt. Montello; Paul Goode. Wasatch: Kandi S Hansen, Appel, Colfax; Scott Bedlington, Fremont; Nicholas Bratlhe, William Ryan. Waupaca: Jill Mane Fremont; Shane Hardy, Lone Peak; Lynden; Paul Booker, Othello; Sonia Cambridge; Tracie Brede, Bonduel; Schaffner, Cochrane-Fountain City; Anne Haueter. Wasatch; Joseph M Borba, Othello; Brian S Carlson, Christy Brewer, Weyauwega- Wayne Larry Schaitel. Sparta; Mark Humphrey, Emery Sr; Haley Yelm; Jason Emerson, Almira- Fremont; Kari Brown, Juda; Kathi Jo Melissa Schommer, Waupaca; Hunting. Fremont; Jason Jarvie, Coulee-Hartline; Jennie Farwell, Brown, Juda; Barbara Rose Brusky, Andrew Schraufnagel. Mayville; Manila; Robert M Jenson, Richfield: Othello; Mary Catherine Flick, Pulaski; Sarah A Colby, Sauk Bridget Schultz, Shullsburg; Jason A Shantel Keller, Wasatch; Amber Tonasket; Matt Flood. Zillah; Joshua Prairie: Jessica Creamer, Waupaca; Schultz, Black Hawk-South Wayne: Larsen. Manila; Pat Leddy. South Paul Golob, Granger; Jane Bridget Dahm, Elkhart Lake; Amy Johneen Leilam Schwab. Fall Creek: Sevier; John Lewis, Lehi: Jed Gutzwiler. Wenatchee; Brad L Haag, Dorn, Edgerton; Michael J Shawn James Skorstad. Waterford: Lundell. Payson; Thomas Maples, Wenatchee; Nathaniel A Hahner, Dorshorst, Poynette; Darin F Drews, Angela Smith, Cambridge; Tracy Sky View; Michelle Okerlund, South Liberty; Michael R Hastings, Randolph; Shawn R Eckerman, Smithback, Cambridge; Bart Sopa. Sevier; Mark Openshaw, Payson; Pomeroy; Jason Heinz, Wenatchee; Black Hawk-South Wayne; Cameron Amherst; Josh Sykora, Bloomer; Kelli Park, Wasatch; Kerri Lyn Park, Adrian C Higginbotham. Almira- R Edler, Black Hawk-South Wayne; Derin L Tangwall. Weyauwega- Wasatch; Mark Porritt, Bear River; Coulee-Harthne; Ryan W Michelle L Ensch. Shullsburg; Fremont; Nicole Linda Thalacker. Alan Rail. Wasatch; T J Rhodes, Higginbotham. Almira-Coulee- Shaun Farrell. Fort Atkinson; Bryon Beaver Dam: Jason E Toufar. Bear River; Brett Sterling Robertson, Hartline; Jaime Hinton, Sedro- D Feller. Monticello; Kristen Spencer; Mark Tracy. Riverdale: Payson; Justen Chris Selman. Bear Woolley; Karen Hutchinson, Fetting, Cochrane-Fountain City; Chad M Traun. Durand; Holli River; Shawn W Silcox, Payson; Rochester; Casey Rogers Kooistra, Mary Beth Feucht, Mayville; Josh Trowbridge. New Auburn; Terry J Gamer, Cochrane-Fountain City; Turpin, Hillsboro; Joe Ubersox, Melissa Ann Gerlach, Marshfield; Shullsburg; Jenny Van Egtern, Jonathan Gibbs. Waupun; Brock R Waupun; Melissa VanderLinden. Gill, Shullsburg; Gail Glodowski. Green Bay Southwest: Matthew D Amherst; Melissa S Goers, Gresham: Vellema. Waupun; Jason Wakeman. Jessica Lynn Golding. Waupaca; Rio; Sarah Dorothy Weber. Arlaina Lynn Gonske, Rice Lake; Plymouth; Adam Michael Wehling. James A Good. Marshfield; Shawn Fall Creek; Mike Weigel, Platteville M Grams. Randolph; Kathy Grindey, High School; Danny Darrell

Shullsburg; Ian J Groff. Oshkosh Wessels. Riverdale; Ben Aaron North; Eric Gudex. Mayville; Brian Wiedenfeld. Lake Mills; Pamela amencan Jon Hall. Tomah; Mary Handrich, Wilder. Osseo-Fairchild: Jeannie M Weyauwega-Fremont; Rebecca M Winkelman. Watertown; Elizabeth Harter, Oconto Falls: Timothy F Ann Zangl. Mayville; Paul Calvin Smart, Lone Peak: Karlee Quincy; Robert Matthews, Hasler, Monroe; Stacy Heck. Zastoupil, Tomah: Jamie

Smith, Payson; Rodney J Spencer, Rochester; Ryan Mensonides. Yelm; Neillsville; Austin Heideman, Zimmerman. Fall Creek;

Morgan County; Joshua Dean Ian Murdock, Walla Walla; Crystal Manawa; Gina M Helstad. Black WYOMING: Mark J Avery, Lander: Staheli, Woods Cross; Trevor Sulser, Nelson, Winlock; Melissa Ney, River Falls; John Herbert Herbst. Paul Bauder, Douglas; Amy Bradley. Wasatch; Tamra Sutherland. Mt Yelm; Michelle Ney, Yelm; Bruce H Black Hawk-South Wayne; Trisha Cheyenne East; Stacy L Child. Nebo: Kasee Lynn Sweat. Lehi; Petty, Asotin; Jon James Schlee, Lynn Hieronimczak, Pulaski; Julie L Cheyenne East; Ross Cochran. Melissa Swenson. Payson: Adrienne Asotin; Nathan Sehuyleman, Hill, Johnson Creek; Scott Holland, Torrington: Danielle Cox. Burns;

Dawn Twitchell, Lone Peak: Justin Wenatchee; Rebecca J Thomson, Pardeeville; Shalome Lanai Jaquish. Corey Forman. Powell; Jasi Michele Ward, Sky View: VERMONT: Ferndale; Phoebe Walkling, Sauk Prairie; Robert Raymond Jarek. Hadden. Powell: Alan Hamner. Joshua A Panton, Vergennes; Lee R Rochester; Daneice N Witt, Yelm; Bonduel; David Jennings. Rio; Abby Lyman; Brian Lewis, Snowy Range: Pratt. Vergennes; Jennie Vander Wey, WEST VIRGINIA: Nathan Thomas M Johnson, Pulaski; Josh Johnson, Shawn Miller, Buffalo; Stephanie

Vergennes; VIRGINIA: Eliza Alt, Mineral County; Kamden Shullsburg; Shawn J Johnsrud, Moore, Wright; Amanda Mullins.

Tsianina Baldwin. Nelson County; Bamett, Ripley; Paul D Burdette Jr, Pecatonica-Blanchardville; Rebecca Riverside; James Sedman. Southeast; Tara L Barton. Central: James T Roane County; David Canterbury, Jordan. Johnson Creek; Kellie Jo Heith L Waddell. Cheyenne East: Begoon. Fort Defiance: Christopher Ripley; Cynthia Roxanne Clay, Keehn. Monticello; Tracy Kieffer. Traci Walton. Cheyenne East: Corey E Bielmyer. Dinwiddie County; Greenbrier West; Jonathan Darlington; Kenneth Clair Kieler, Blake Whitlock. Pine Ridge; Patrick Ryan S Blosser. Turner Ashby; Cummings, Roane County; Suzanne Darlington; Kimberly Ann Kramer, Zimmerer. Southeast;

Ralph Gamett Booher III, John S Renea Cummings, Roane County; Oshkosh West; Kirk John Kramp,

Battle; Bryan Craig Breeden, Christopher Lynn Cunningham, Marshfield; James M Krueger II, Spotswood: Nathan Brewbaker, Barbour County; Jeff Curry. Ripley; Hillsboro; Alexandra Dee Larson,

Christiansburg: John E Davis Jr. John Frank Erwin Jr, Doddridge Osceola; Andrew P Leonard, Atlee; Joseph Malcolm Emswiler, County; Jeremy Bay Fletcher. Tyler; Pecatonica-Blanchardville; Holly A Broadway: Samantha Fauble, Jami K Godfrey, Ripley; Roger G Lonning, Neillsville; Andrew R Sherando: Rodney A Foltz, Central; Hanshaw, Clay County; Michael Loosen, Hartford; Dale R Maass. Chad Douglas Francis, Halifax Paul Knapp, Roane County; Nathan Seymour: Kristine Maroszek. County: Donna Lynnette Hall, L Knopp. Ripley; Barbara Sue Pulaski; Aaron McMillan, Poynette;

Amelia County Senior; Kenneth A Linton, Hedgesville; Rocky M Melanie J Melander, Spencer; James Hammer Jr. Spotswood; Jason Mason, Jefferson; Candace Minear, A Melby, Waupaca; Beth Ann Hatton. Fort Defiance; Catherine M Ravenswood; Marvin Dewayne Mielke, Marion: Daniel T Miesen,

Hess, Turner Ashby; Gregory Joseph Paxton Jr, Roane County; Jeanetta Platteville; Tracy Miller, Green Bay Holsinger. Wilson Memorial; Mary Rana Peggs, Gilmer County; Carrie East; Erin E Mullen. Milton; Lanae Beth Hylton, Fort Defiance; Barner Beth Ruddle, Pendleton County; Ginette Nelson, Osceola; Joe Neuser,

Jones. Park View Sr; Barry Allen Michael Shambhn, Roane County; Mishicot; Matthew J Norberg, Jones, Amelia County; Ashlie Christopher Tomlin, Ripley; Prairie Farm; Bryan Jeffery Kiracofe, Fort Defiance; Ryan WISCONSIN: Ryan R Alvin, Novacheck, Hillsboro; Mark A Oft,

Kiracofe, Buffalo Gap; Winston I Randolph; Chad Wilbur Baldwin, Randolph; Ben Olson, Loyal; Joe Knight, Spotswood; Daniel Robert Hillsboro; Vicki Lynn Balthazor, Lauro, Fort Defiance; Troy Lawson, Bonduel; Marshall Barton. Buffalo Gap; Bradley Lutz, Stoughton; Curtis Baskin. Durand; retiring

it all begins with middle C Lisa E. Ahrens, National FFA President 72nd National FFA Convention As a little girl of about eight, I began to take Ninth General Session piano lessons. I was so excited because I was going to learn to play my favorite song from

Sunday school-Jesus Loves Me. I remember sitting at my teacher's piano. I was barely tall enough to see the keys and my feet dangled off the bench. Even though I was young, I so badly wanted to learn how to play piano like my big sister did. I thought that I could just start off playing right away! But learning piano, learning how to sing or playing a musical instrument does- n't work that way. You know, sitting at this bench taught me more than just piano. Yes, I had to learn the basics of piano... notes, rhythms, chords, scales. And, I even learned some of those famous songs we hear on the piano today, like chopsticks and Fur Elise.

While learning the notes and the songs. I couldn't help but also learn some important lessons on life.

What I found is that life is a lot like playing the piano. Just like you begin each song by finding and rushing to get to work on time. after a very busy schedule, nothing middle C, we each have to find the center of our We are in constant search of material beats going back to the family farm things that will that I call are the lives. Once we find what is most important to make us happy. We home. These most cars, in life. us-our middle C-the payoff is wonderful and we think we need money, new and important things my can go share our talents with the rest of the world. cell phones or pagers to make us a part cool group. Instead, are middle C. what is It all begins with middle C. of the we should These my So remember what my piano teacher made yours? Where is your middle C? Who when she told to stop, take a are the people that are most important So, as I began my piano lessons as an eight-year- me do me to old girl, what do you suppose was the first thing second and find middle C. to you-that allow you be you? Maybe it is your mom, dad, guardian, that I had to learn? I had to learn where "middle teacher or your friend. They are a part C" was located on the keyboard. It's just a note So, FFA members have you ever stopped to think about where your of your center, your middle C. What is but everything in music revolves around it. The notes on the page do not make any sense unless middle C is? We all need to know it that makes you the happiest? Is it at-basketball, you have a central reference point from which to where the center is in our lives. What the sport that you excel are your core values that you use as tennis, volleyball or track? Maybe you play. Middle C is that center point. I remember Recognizing my piano teacher telling me to stop and to look building blocks for the rest of your can sing or play piano. life? If life takes turn, what you are good at is a part of find- where my hands were. Then she would tell me to your a wrong where do you go searching for the ing your middle C. start again with my thumb on middle C. If I did not start from the center, then the music would answers to take you back to where you ever been working on not sound right. If you think about music in belong? Have you suddenly had the general, whether you like rap, alternative, ska, or something and

feeling, "Oh... I love this!" That is a country, none of that would be possible without To truly find your own middle C, you is of your middle C! the basic building blocks in music. Those must invest the time to discover what part find building blocks all begin with middle C. most important to you. Once you those things, plan your life around It may seem weird to think about them. These are the core values that those things that center you. But In today's society it seems like we have forgotten reach the about middle C. We have forgotten some of the you care the most about. For me, my FFA members, when you faith, family, friends, and our family point where you know your core basics on which everything else is built. We values, you are truly living your life spend so much time wrapped up in our hectic farm are my center. Those are the four what is most important to you and lives and crazy schedules. We spend our days things that I can go back to when life by

I not others think. When you rushing to get to school on time, rushing to get the takes me in the wrong direction. what may find your center, you will find last minute homework done before class starts, know that my faith will always provide me with a strong foundation on which happiness and contentment. It all

to build. I know that my family and begins with middle C. friends will love me unconditionally no

matter what happens in my life. And So why invest the time to find middle back to the calm, smooth water in the I would forget the entire song!! It was going to

C? Why do piano teachers constantly center, it would result in a monstrous be the first time I actually had an audience to remind us to find middle C? How many face plant! If I worried each time that I watch me play. The only way I survived that of you have ever sat in a high school would fall, or run into the monstrous recital was to sit down at the piano, take a deep class and wondered "why?" or "What waves from another boat, it would start breath, and instead of seeing 88 keys in front of is the purpose of this class?" The to affect my performance, and the same me, focus on one that I knew for sure-middle C. purpose of finding your middle C is to is true in other things besides My first recital was a success! It was the first understand who you really are and skiing. Each time a wave in life comes time I got to take my talents and turn them out- what you stand for. In doing that, you towards me, I have to take a step back ward for others to enjoy. can find how to be happy and content and go back to what is really important no matter what is going on around you. to me. I have to find middle my C This year, one of my favorite memories on the

again. When I look back at those times road reminded me of all the piano recitals I used

How many of you look in the mirror in my life when I was upset or to play in. At the Mississippi State FFA and see everything that is wrong with troubled, every time I had missed my Convention, the talent show had just been com- you? I weigh too much. I weigh too middle C. pleted and almost everyone had headed home for little, I am not tall enough, I wish I had the evening, except for a few. Someone asked me blonde hair, I wish I had more athletic to play piano and almost everyone had headed ability. We are constantly in a state of The purpose of finding home for the evening, except for a few. Someone comparing ourselves to others around asked me to play piano and that was all it took. your middle C is to us. We judge ourselves on whether or My two piano playing buddies, Joseph and Ryan, not we have the "in" clothes, or understand who you took over from there. The evening was filled with whether or not we hang out with the singing, playing piano and laughter. We didn't really are and what you cool crowd at school. We measure realize how fast the time had gone until it was ourselves against these things. So stand for. In doing that, 1 1:30 p.m., an hour-and-a-half after we started. what? At times I find myself It didn't take much, but a few people gave the you can find how to be comparing my abilities to my 1 5-20 others who were there a small gift that classmates or teammates, I know that I happy and content no night. Everyone left with a smile on their face won"t be as talented because their and a bounce in their step. All because Joseph matter what is going on talent is a gift. I will never be able to and Ryan weren't afraid to share their talents play sports like Jose, I can't play guitar around you. with others. like James, and I can't harmonize like Emily. But that's part of what makes God gave us each many special talents. Simply them special, not me. Once you find occupying space is not why we were put on this your middle C, you get past Every day each of us can be led away earth. There is so much more than that to do. It comparing. And that's when you find from center by all kinds of things. It is how you interact with others around you to the self-confidence, the worth and the may be people who ask us to be create the harmonies in your life. Are you letting happiness that allows you to be you. someone that we are not, or the need to your talents spill over into other people's lives?

be popular and the demands of all our That is where you can truly make a difference in

When you've found your center, can activities. Only you know what pulls this world. The greatest joy we can experience is you still lose sight of what's important? you away from your middle C. Don't not only our achievements, but helping someone

Of course you can! Even I lose my let it! else reach his or her own accomplishment as well. center. It is just like practicing piano. You must find your center, so you can use your

The music is always there in front of Why should you find your middle C? abilities to help others around you, to help make you, written how it should go, but it Because the payoff is beyond belief. your family better, your community better, and takes continued practice to get it right. When you find your middle C, you find help make our world better. You must create and

true happiness, confidence in yourself, share your melody. It doesn't have to be drastic!

Many of you that I have met this year and belief in your abilities. Just as the It is the little notes that start the melodies like know that I love to water-ski. In melody is the heart and soul of any smiling at a stranger on the street or telling your slalom water-skiing, it takes some musical piece, when you find middle C parents you love them. Before long, all those little balance to stay up on the ski. Part of you have created your own melody-a notes form the melody that will become your the challenge is learning how to cut melody that is different from anyone masterpiece. back and forth across the wake. The else's. It is one that is special in its better I became, the faster I could begin own rite My friends, take time to find your middle C. to cut from side to side. Each time Create your own melody, and share it with the though. I had to cross that place where One of the scariest things I can rest of the world.

I started, the smooth, safe water behind remember, is the first time that I had to the center of the boat. And if we passed play piano at my first recital. My another boat, or I hit some rough water hands were frozen cold, my knees were when skiing, I knew that if I didn't get shaking, and I was so nervous I thought back to the calm, smooth water in the Jose Santiago, Southern Region Vice President when is the end? 72nd National FFA Convention Sixth Convention Session

I had a great time in high school! I played basket- I wobbled right out into the street just teacher or FFA advisor that you love ball, baseball, I swam and I also loved in time to lose control. I looked up to them because they give to you? FFA gymnastics! In fact I wanted to be in everything! I see that there were five cars coming members, you have shown me from wanted to fit in with the other students and be from one direction and one car from the very first time that I came to seen as cool. It was exhausting! Soon after the other. convention that this organization is for getting involved, I would ask myself, "When is people who want to give of themselves the end of the basketball season?" "When is the and help others. last volleyball game?" or "When is the end of my high school years?" Maybe you have asked I count myself blessed because I have yourself these same questions. You don't need to be a seen you give of yourselves in community service, helping other scientist, an Olympian, Throughout the years I have seen that materialistic members succeed and helping the aspects of life like sports, clothing and money a national officer or agricultural industry by learning and have endings! You are in high school, and in a caring about its future. You have even a chapter officer couple years you will be in college, working, or taught me that it is not about building both. You might be on a baseball team, in the to be a giver. Start now. my dreams, it is about building people. band, in different organizations or involved in Each time that you gave me a ride to your church. You may find yourself asking "When Give encouragement to the airport, invited me to stay in your will this activity end?" homes or wrote me a letter, I saw that a friend who needs it. you, FFA members, are the best givers The answer to that question may be very Hug your teammates.... in the world. simple-the last baseball game of the season or the Start now because final band concert. In the big picture of life there You don't need to be a scientist, an are questions that are hard to answer. They are tomorrow may be too Olympian, a national officer or even a more difficult because they involve people and chapter officer to be a giver. Start now. late! Commit today to our ability to give and forgive in these Give encouragement to a friend who relationships. a life of giving. needs it. Hug your teammates. Write to your best friend to tell them how

When is the end of giving? What does giving even much you care. Put your arm around mean? Does it mean giving everything away? No your mom and dad and say, "I love way, Jose! You may say, "Why should I give if no you." Start now, because tomorrow one ever has given me anything?" We are so That is all I remember. I broke my leg, may be too late! Commit today to a focused on what we receive and how we look or but I was going to be fine. The life of giving. how cool we are, when what really matters is ambulance carried me to the hospital giving from the heart. I am frustrated when I see and my mom met me there. I was When you do. you will find that giving others putting materialistic things first instead of super scared, not because of the pain is easy with your friends. But it is extending their hand to those people who need in my leg, but because I had disobeyed very tough to give to someone who someone. Giving! What a simple concept, but how my mom. I thought I would be in big has hurt you. To truly live a life of much we struggle with it! Givers are great human trouble. I had my head down and I giving you must also live a life of for- beings! They love you for who you are. They said, "Mom, I am so sorry". My mom giving. So when is the end of forgiv- inspire you, they care and they give without said, "Jose it doesn't matter to me, the ing? expecting anything in return! only thing that matters is that I still

have you. I love you no matter what." OOPS ! You know we all make mis-

When I was ten years old I learned the true That moment I learned what giving is. takes. It is really hard to accept that meaning of giving. Now, ten was a pretty cool age My mom was able to give her love and and forgive ourselves. It's even more because I learned how to ride my bike. My mom support to me when she could have difficult to forgive those people around would hold my bicycle steady for me because I been angry. us! I guarantee you that one of the was not too coordinated! One day I asked my most important things that you can mom if I could go outside to ride my bicycle, but So, when is the end of giving? Never! give to someone is forgiveness. When she told me "no" because she was busy! Guess My friends, I believe that living a life is the end of forgiving others? what? I went right outside and climbed on that of giving never ends! You will give bike without her approval. Bad idea! With my others hope that will live on forever as As a child I experienced challenges unsteady balance and a lack of experience. they share that hope throughout the and struggles forced me to learn for-

world. When was the last time that giveness the hard way. My father was

you told your friend, dad, mom. an alcoholic. In December of 1979. I retiring address

was eight months old. One night my Close your eyes and think about a time One simple answer for two difficult questions'

Dad came home intoxicated and when you made a mistake. Were you When is the end of giving? Never! When is the

started to abuse my mom. He broke given the gift of forgiveness? I hope end of forgiving? Never! When we give and for-

her left arm and threw her down the you were. give, we are appreciating people around us. It's so

stairs. But that was not all. I was in easy to forget about people who are starving in my crib and he took me in his arms If your neighbor talks negatively other countries, dying from disease or who need a and threw me from a window and about you forgive them. If you fail, little compassion. We are fortunate to live in a walked out of our lives forever. I grew forgive yourself. Because my friends, country where families are valued and peace and up with physical impairments and when you forgive, you can be forgiv- freedom reign. learning disabilities. My friends, I was en! When is the end of forgiving? not able to walk because of the dam- FFA members, you are exceptional. I see enough age to my back. The doctors told my Never! When we live a life of giving potential giving and forgiving in you to bring mom that I would never be able to and forgiving, our actions will live on hope to the homeless, love to the lost and strength walk, run or even play. I had to go forever, making those who come after to the weak. FFA members give and forgive! through a lot of therapy. During one of us happier and more successful. The Because when is the end of giving and forgiving? my swimming sessions a miracle hard part for us is living a life of You have the answer! May God bless all of you! occurred! After seven years I moved giving and forgiving day by day. my legs for the very first time. God truly blessed me with this miracle!

From that point on, I continued with more intensive rehabilitation. For the first time I hoped that I could live a normal life. But through this entire time. I still didn't know why. "Why am I in this wheelchair? Why do I need special education class? Why do others have a dad while I don't?"

In December of 1 99 1 my world fell apart when my mom gave me the answers to the questions-the story I just shared with you. I remembered feeling very angry with my dad. One day my mother sat me down and said, "Jose, don't be mad towards your father, because he is a human being.

We must forgive because we all make mistakes." But I was still angry with my dad, I blamed God and I was unhappy with my life.

I realized that if my mother could avoid hating my father for abusing her, then I could also be strong enough to forgive him. It was very difficult to do, but I let go of the anger. I decided that even though he hurt everyone in my family and chose not to be a part of our lives, I could still love him. I confess to you that my biggest dream in life is to meet him and tell him, "I love you, Dad!" I can do this because I made a conscious choice to give him the gift of forgiveness. "We stand tall only because we stand on the backs of those who came before us." FFA members were enraptured as Danny Glover recounted his boyhood on his grandparents' farm. Glover was sponsored by The Humana Foundation as a special project of the National FFA Foundation.

As a Vietnam veteran who was severely disfigured when a grenade

exploded in his hand, Dave Roever relayed a message of survival and overcoming adversity. His powerful oration brought FFA members to tears, then laughter,

and left them filled with hope. Roever was sponsored by United Parcel Service (UPS) as a special project of the National FFA Foundation. Humorist and motivational speaker Emory Austin offered a message of hope and inspiration to FFA members. "The world needs your ounce of differ-

ence," she told the crowd gathered in Freedom Hall

Worldwide adventurer and author Jaime Clark mesmerized and entertained FFA members with his inspiring story of human triumph. He shared his message of overcoming obstacles and coping with rapid change. retiring

_ James Garner, Western Region Vice President people need People 72nd National FFA Convention Eighth Convention Session

Where were you when I needed you ? "James, that's not a need!" Air, water, perspective. Put people who add

I needed to talk, I needed a friend. food and shelter are needs to sustain quality to your life at the top of your You make me laugh and you make me smile. life. In fact, on the hierarchy of basic list.

But it's hard when you're gone awhile. human needs, those are the top four.

And so I found that people need people. Obviously you will die without those, SONG:

but number five behind those is social There 's a void in my life and it cuts interaction-the for Many times over the last twelve months, I would need a friend. me like a knife. pick up a guitar just to play and soothe my soul. Now, I'm sure that each of you have I must have someone there. Many times people asked the question, "What one people in your lives that are special to Any ol' person won 'tfit the shoe. thing did you learn most from this year?" To be you. You enjoy spending time with There's certain things they gotta do. them they are a real part honest, it was always hard to give just one answer, and of you And I'm just looking for a friend. and when you're not around I but that answer finally came to me one day as I them When I'm up want some fun there is a feeling of emptiness and was playing the guitar. So I thought, why not and when I'm down I'm on the run. write a song? One of my dreams is to become a dejection. But then you come and pick me up. songwriter, so here was my chance. Now, You give me comfort and love. I have always a racing unfortunately, I can't whip out my guitar and sing been huge drag And I found that people need people. a song every time someone asks the question, fan. My dad had raced and worked on

crews I loved to the races. all "What did you learn most this year?" But I do and go to We have a need-a need for a

The one race that I always wanted to friend. old fit know that what I learned most was that the people But any person won't around me-my friends, family, and loved attend was the U.S. Nationals in the shoe-there are certain things they

Indianapolis. It was the mother of all gotta do. Think about it this way. ones-are vital to my happiness. FFA members, I wouldn't be surprised to find out that you feel the drag races-the biggest one in the The plumbing in your house starts to

world! I it to It same way. It is imperative that you fulfill your This year had the chance to go out and needs be fixed.

I need for friendship, fill your life with healthy and go and was pumped. I thought that needs to be fixed by a plumber, but positive friends, and dedicate effort and time to this was going to be the greatest thing you can't afford one, so you just use nurture a positive relationship. in my life. I would go to the races for duct tape to fix the problem. The three straight days and see cars speed- need is fulfilled, but not in a good SONG: ing at three hundred miles an hour, way. It's not the best possible fit. but

sometimes on fire, and people cheer- it suffices. times do we let It 's the same old line. How many

I want this and I want that. ing and yelling for it all. The race that happen in our lives with

great, but as I left the race track I relationships? afraid the answer If I just had more time. was I'm the emptiest feeling in the world. is too times. Our for If I just had more money. had many need It was no doubt the loneliest time of friendship must be filled with healthy If I just had it all. But what you and I really need to find true my life. I sat in the grandstands for relationships, with people who add happiness. six hours by myself with no one to quality to our lives. What is a healthy talk to. Yes, there a hundred relationship? Well it's one that Well it's not from success, were there, provides fun, it's not by being the best, thousand people but none were encouragement, cause I found that people need people. my friends. I needed to be with comfort and love. someone I knew.

When I'm up and I want to have some I want. I want, I want. How many times do we

is it fun, I get together with college hear that in our lives? How many times have we How many times the same old my

line? I'll be happy if I get elected to roommates, Nate and Ryan. Now you said it before? The answer is probably too many chapter office or if I make the high must understand that Nate and Ryan times. I want to be rich. I want to be famous. I school basketball team. None of that are big on exercise. As for me, I like want to be a pro wrestler. I want to be like Mike. I matters if no one is there to share it to have a little cover for the winter, if want to be Shania Twain. I want to be an interna-

with you. For instance, you go to a you know what I mean. But they tional man of mystery like Austin Powers. I want play racquetball and to be Johnny Cash-okay, maybe that's only me. basketball court and make two convinced me to

hundred shots in a row, but no one it was a lot fun. I don't know what it The point is we go through life with many wants, else there to see It would be was, the fact that the ball but the only thing that really matters is our needs. was you. maybe great if enjoy the seemed to hit me square between the FFA members, the fact of the matter is that one of someone could with If no one is there eyes more often then square on the those needs is social interaction. ..in other words moment you. it fun. spent friendship. Now you're probably thinking, to share that moment, it could be racquet, but was We pretty lonely. Ladies and gentlemen, more time rolling around on the

each of us must find people to fill that ground laughing than playing

need in our lives. FFA members, I'm racquetball. But it is also when I'm asking you to think about your wants down, that my two friends provide

and needs, and really put them into pick me up and comfort. If I came from school and had a bad day, they one. I could tell you John Adams was I was just a little nervous-actually very nervous.

were there to encourage and console the first to live in the White House. In fact, I was so nervous that my voice went up me. I'm sure you've heard the phrase, Andrew Jackson had a pet parrot that eight octaves and I screeched, "I'm your biggest " choose your friends wisely. It would swear. William Henry Harrison fan." In his deep voice he replied, Glad to know couldn't be more true. FFA members only served one month. James you." The next words out of my mouth were

surround yourself with people who Buchanan was the only bachelor. quite possibly the dumbest I have ever said: "I bring you up, not drag you down. At James Garfield could write in Greek can sing just like you!" He replied half jokingly, school, you might feel like you can't with his left hand and Latin with his "I'm sure you can son." Needless to say our

be with the "in-crowd" so you'll just right hand at the same time. The list relationship didn't have the greatest start. But I

settle to be with negative people. went on and on. was still determined. Since 1993, I have Your well-being, your happiness and invited Johnny Cash to my home each year on

your inner-peace are far too important The same is true to build a healthy February 26th to celebrate his birthday. Sadly

to just have the attitude of "I'll settle relationship. No, you don't have to enough, he has not shown up for six years

for this." FFA members, seek out the memorize the presidents, but you do straight. I have concluded that our relationship people who give you comfort and have to be dedicated and determined will never grow because we have not spent any love. to care about another person and to time together. The energy and effort was there, totally focus on strengthening your but no time was invested. SONG: friendship. The attitude of "I'll get

And in our lives we 're so by" or "This is good enough." does Folks, we get so wrapped up in day to day life.

wrapped up just tryin ' to get by. not work with people-it certainly We have homework to do, soccer practice, football How do I grow a friend? doesn't grow any type of relationship. practice and we have chores to do-it's tough! But

One who 's with me to the end. The most precious thing you can give when it's all said and done, are we going to

It's not an easy thing to do. to another person is your time. remember the B+ we received on the math test? You must commit and Are we going to remember that no nail polish see it through to grow that friend. goes with national blue and corn gold? I don't

But the one thing we never seem to think so. I sincerely hope we will all remember give. the people who were there for us when we needed

It's the most precious thing of all. them, who listened and who were true friends. Cause when people need people. There are a handful of people in our lives who

They really need their time. fulfill our need of friendship. Take the time to grow and sustain those friendships. FFA members, think of someone

important to you. Three things can We all need positive relationships. We want them happen to your relationship by tomor- to add quality to our lives. When you leave here row. It could get weaker, it could stay today, I ask that you do two things. On your way the same or it could grow stronger. I home, I want you to think of one person in your would like to think that we would all life who is important to you. Make a personal want our relationships with others to commitment to strengthen your relationship. grow stronger. How do you grow a Secondly, make a list of all the ways you can friend who's with you to the end? It's spend time with that person. Whether the person not an easy thing to do. You must is a parent, teacher or a friend you've had since commit and see it through. second grade, start planning activities you can do Folks, we can be serious about together. Make the commitment to share yourself

When I was in second grade, I was building a healthy relationship until and your time with people you care about. determined to learn all of the presi- we are blue in the face, but if we dents of the United States. Of course don't take the time it will never Don't let it be the same old line. Fill the void in that is not exactly a normal thing for a happen. Strong friendships are built your life. Listen, laugh, smile and give your time seven-year-old to do. But then there when people do things together. It to others. has never really been anything "nor- can be playing cards, Nintendo, golf, mal" about me. So, every waking bowling or a great talk on a Sunday Happiness comes not from success or from being moment, I was reading a book about afternoon. As some of you know, I'm the best. It comes from being a friend, because ... presidents, watching a biography, or a huge Johnny Cash fan. I would love people... dressing up like Franklin Roosevelt to build a great friendship with him. I need ... for Halloween in third grade or Abe have been very determined to do that people.

Lincoln the following year. I had for many years now. My first try to problems. But, I was dedicated and it establish a friendship was after one of paid off. I could ramble off every his shows. I ran around the back of president from George Washington to the auditorium where his bus was Ronald Reagan, (it was the eighties) parked. Just as he was stepping on to and I could tell you a fact about each the bus, I stopped him. Emily Buxton, Eastern Region Vice President how do you measure up? 72nd National FFA Convention Fifth Convention Session

According to grandma*s refrigerator I am short. But the most important thing is how and we measure ourselves by that. We See, I grew up with six cousins and a little broth- you measure yourself. The method need balance in our lives. er. Between the oldest and youngest there are only you use to measure yourself six years. All of us live within three miles of one determines your opinion of your We all have times when we feel better another, rode the school bus together so we and self-worth. So how do you measure up about ourselves than other times. What were in the same Sunday school classes. when it comes to measuring yourself? kinds of things do you let determine Do you measure yourself by the size that? Sometimes even things we Nine times a year we were at grandma and of your clothes, whether you have a consider healthy can become for either a or grandpa's house birthday boyfriend or girlfriend, the grades on unhealthy when they are not in

Christmas. I don't know when this all started but your report card, points you score in a balance. For instance, all of us feel it became tradition to grab the measuring stick out ball game, the office you hold in your great when we are given attention. tall against of the hall closet, stand with our backs chapter, the amount of money in your That's a healthy, natural need. But, the refrigerator, and measure our height by using wallet? The list goes on and on. Deep this could be unhealthy if someone the magnets as markers. We kept track of our down I think that most of us realize measured himself according to how heights on a little index card that we displayed on measuring ourselves according to much attention he received, whether it the refrigerator for all to see. physical aspects is pretty superficial. was a talk with a friend or time in the

But, I still find myself doing it at principal's office. Or, we've all heard

I wrote the "five, five" name numbers by my times, and I'm sure you do too. that being physically fit gives us more when I was probably thirteen or fourteen. I didn't energy and prevents us from becoming realize then that they would never change again. I sick. This could cross the line to watched as birthday after birthday. Christmas after When you are trying to be unhealthy though, if someone Christmas, each of the others erased their numbers measured herself against models in your creative best, then and recorded bigger ones. The girls shot past me. magazines and was willing to starve Soon the boys did, too. My little brother even you have no one to herself to look that way. grew to be taller than the refrigerator. So I am compete with or compare officially the shortest cousin. The dangerous thing about measuring yourself to only your own ourselves the wrong way is that we All of us probably have memories of measuring feel inadequate. And when we feel our height as we grew up. Many times a certain potential. When someone inadequate, then we act that way. We height meant we were allowed to do something. else believes in us, we can never be our best, if we don't Like when you were big enough to wear think we are capable of being our best. hand-me-downs from a favorite brother or sister, believe in ourselves. An or you were finally taller than that red stick and individual who says they How do you measure up against your you could ride the "real" roller coasters. But as creative best? Well, it's different for we've grown older, the ways that we measure believe in you is really each person. That's because we are ourselves have changed a little. each different. The worst thing we can saying they believe in your do is measure ourselves by comparing For many of us, the things and people we measure potential to be your ourselves to others. ourselves against affect how we think about creative best. So by ourselves and how we treat others. All through elementary school, I sharing your belief in wanted more than anything to have a Even during a typical morning before school, we part in our school Christmas plays. I are surrounded by all kinds of measurements. others, you will be watched the older students and looked The box that our favorite cereal comes in says that howing them the best way up to them so much. Finally I was able one serving is 3/4 cup. There is a size printed on to try out for a part when I was in the the tag of our shirt and jeans and even in our to measure themselves. sixth grade. The play was called shoes. As we're driving, we glance at the Baa-Baa Bethlehem and all the main speedometer to measure our speed compared to characters were sheep. This was the sign we see up ahead. We are constantly Maybe that's because we feel so especially exciting for me because I measuring things, so it only makes sense that we connected to the things we do or the had sheep for my 4-H projects and had as measure ourselves well. way we look. We just have to make loved them all my life. I wanted to be sure that those things don't become a sheep in the play so badly.

our identity. Sure, they can be an important part of us, but they aren't When the parts were announced I was

us. Sometimes we may put too much a little disappointed. I was a sheep,

emphasis on a certain part of our lives which is what I wanted, but I was retiring address

Blanche. And Blanche's character was against is your own potential—and that It will also help you stay in check with how you just what she sounds like-blah. is whatever you believe it is. are viewing yourviewing yourself.

We all wore white sweatshirts and When we are measuring ourselves And it can go farther than your good friends. sweat pants, except the grumpy black only against our own creative best, Do you even say hi or smile at your classmates sheep. Adrian and Angie. My pretty then we're not comparing ourselves to when you walk down the halls of your school? friend Stacey was the beautiful model others. And when we're not comparing We know there are students at our school who sheep with a pink feather boa. Erica ourselves to others, we begin to see are unhappy, yet we usually ignore them. We tell was a spunky singer, and so she was them differently. ourselves that they're not one of our friends, so the rock star sheep with sunglasses it's not our responsibility to care about them. and a guitar. Steve was very smart so Of course this isn't the norm in high But it is our responsibility! he was the intellectual sheep with big school. We tend to give everyone a glasses and a necktie. All the sheep label. We even have groups in school And eventually, when we accept and respect wore something to reflect their so that everyone who measures up a everyone, when we measure others not by the personalities. And me? All I wore certain way can be with others who person others judge them to be. but by the person was plain old white. If these really are similar. You all know the cliques I we know they can be, then just imagine what our reflected each of our personalities, am talking about. But I truly believe schools could be like. then what did this say about me and that if you start with yourself and you my character? change the way you measure yourself, How we measure ourselves determines so much

then ultimately you will change the in our lives. It definitely takes effort on our part to

But soon Blanche and I both way you measure others. How do change how we measure ourselves to be our discovered that we hadn't been you measure up when it comes to creative best and how we measure others to help measuring ourselves very well. During measuring others? If you stop judging them become their creative best. It's a different the play all of the sheep went to visit others by their mistakes, and instead way of thinking, acting and living. baby Jesus and share their gifts with measure them by the potential you see him. Blanche didn't think she had any in them, then not only will you look at There are still those in this world who may gifts to share because she had been them differently, but they will begin to measure you by your height, weight, I.Q., or comparing herself to each of the see themselves differently. If someone salary. But, there's more to you than what they others. But she discovered that she had accepts them not because of their see when they look at you. It is more than the the best and most important gift of physical appearance, but simply grades on your report card, more than the points all-the gift of love. And I discovered because of their heart, then the way you score in a ball game, more than the office that I couldn't keep comparing myself they measure themselves may change that you hold, more than the money in your to other people, because that would too. Also, you won't view others as a wallet. You are a unique individual with the never allow me to be all I am meant to threat anymore. Instead of being potential to do as much as you believe. The be. You are unique. Too often we say jealous of someone's talents or wealth, only thing holding you back is deciding-how that word unique when someone is you can support them to help them be do you measure up? extremely different. But that doesn't their creative best. mean you have to have five earrings in one ear or a hidden tattoo. We are all When you are trying to be your different. In the book of Galatians, creative best, then you have no one to chapter six, verses four and five Paul compete with or compare yourself writes. "Make a careful exploration of to-only your own potential. When who you are and the work you have someone else believes in us, we been given, and then sink yourself into believe in ourselves. An individual that. Don't be impressed with who says they believe in you is really yourself. Don't compare yourself with saying they believe in your potential to others. Each of you must take be your creative best. So by sharing responsibility for doing the creative your belief in others, you will be best you can with your own life." showing them the best way to measure themselves. Many of us never do find out what our true potential is-our creative Listen to your next conversation with best-because we quit trying when we a friend. If that friend says something failed once, or because we're simply about feeling bad because of his afraid of what others will say. We grades or her appearance, remind your can't measure ourselves by our past, friend that's not what makes them only by our futures-by our potential to unique. be our creative best. The only thing you should be measuring yourself retiring

Andy Armbruster, Central Region Vice President mediocre madness 72nd National FFA Convention Fourth Convention Session "Local football star quits because of conflict with coach"

"Workers demand fewer hours and higher wages"

"Polls say character and integrity are not nearly as important as what he does for our economy"

"It wasn't my job, it's not my fault"

Extra!! Extra!! Read all about it. It's the newest wave that is sweeping the nation. It's in our schools and in our families. It's in small towns and large cities. Haven't you heard? This madness has swept into our lives. It is being delivered through our televisions and movies. It is evident in the headlines of the newspapers that are being dropped off at our front door steps. Oh, come on! You know what I am talking about. It is a craze that you and I see everyday in our lives and in the people around us. We have become so If you want to soar like a bald eagle would feel. Taste it. Touch it. Grab

that flies majestically in the sky with it. Visualize yourself doing the right used to it. The madness is mediocrity. pride, if you want to live above the thing and being around the right peo-

level of mediocrity, if want to be ple. Average people waste their time For those of you who might be wondering what I you a ten instead of a five, then, thinking about did what to them mean by mediocrity, let me explain. It means I'll maybe, who you might want to hear about a few or how they will just barely get by in settle for being a five, even though I have the

things that I learned. their next challenge. more our potential to be a ten. It means taking the easy have Now, The there's no scientific proof to back up minds become cluttered with the way. It's the young man who quits when it hurts.

I to share with you, of today's society, the greater It's the people who don't count our change back what am going garbage

I is will to be at the cash register or who don't say "please" and and doubt there any information in the chance we have at school to support mediocre. Instead, should fill our "thank you." It's lazy people who spend all their your textbooks we life, with visions of excellence. time whining. It's families that don't talk. It's me. My information comes from minds people without hope. Mediocre means average. from daily events and people I have People who soar have vision. We settle for average. We settle for average seen soar. In fact, it comes from some grades, average friends, average teachers and of the things I have witnessed many of Once you have visualized yourself soaring, the next step begins with you preachers. We settle for average leaders. Our you do this year. attitude. The one thing that biggest challenge in an average world is average and your have total control of in any situa- people. In fact, too many times we, as individu- we in is our attitude. You not als, settle for being mediocre. To fight mediocre madness our tion may

lives, it begins with you and your know that I ran for national FFA

- than six years Charles Swindoll writes. "The greatest waste of vision not so much by what you see office twice. For more through your eyes but what see in I had visualized my name being our natural resources is the number of people who you at the 70th National FFA never achieve their potential. Get out of that slow your mind. Vision. It's such an excit- announced Convention as a newly elected mem- lane. Shift into that fast lane. If you think you ing word. It's a word that moves a Vision sees ber of the national FFA officer team. can't, you won't. If you think you can, there's a person or group forward.

I knew what the goose bumps would good chance you will. Even making the effort beyond now and beyond average. My

feel like. I had visions of myself run- will make you feel like a new person. junior high basketball coach said, ning up on stage congratulating my Reputations are made by searching for things that "Every time you go to bed at night, teammates. name was can't be done and doing them. Aim low: boring. visualize yourself making all your free new When my not called that Saturday afternoon, Aim high: soaring." throws." Visualize success. If you on

want to be the best creed speaker, then I had about ten minutes until the end

visualize yourself giving the creed to of that session when I would begin to

the best of your abilities. Picture see all the people who had supported

yourself winning the championship me that fall. In those ten minutes, I football game. Think about what the thought about having a pity party for

people there would say and how you myself when I saw my supporters. I thought the committee had made a She had faith in her family that we But it's the little things I have liked so

mistake - a big mistake. I was angry, would make it through the difficult much, Like the promise of hope and

I was sad and I was upset. But in times. She had simple faith. Cancer the human touch. They were e-mails

those same ten minutes, I sat there may have taken my grandmother's from members, friends and family, too.

with six empty seats around me and life, but it didn't take a spirit and a You all made this year a success and

thought, "Listen to yourself. I can act love of a family, because we had faith. for that, I thank you. how most people would expect me to People who live a life of faith are not

act. I can be angry and upset and caught up in mediocre madness. You see, it was these little things that

drag others down with me, or I can have kept me going. Like your good pull myself together and focus on attitudes that kept you growing.

FFA"s six new leaders.'" I focused on the growing experience, and even Making visions reality, A little thing and a simple thing I have

focused on where I wanted to be in enjoyed so much Have been the controlling our the future. Even in our most sunsets. They ewe the mark of God's challenging times, no matter what the attitudes, and living a great touch. They were in Florida, situation is, we have control over our Oregon, and Oklahoma, too. They attitudes. When we are around life of faith begins with were the perfect ending to spending a negative people, our attitudes begin to you. Many people can day with one of you. become negative. Our talk becomes negative. And soon, our actions support and help us Today, another sun sets for me, But

become negative. And before we that 's ok, the good Lord has made along the way, but it is know it, we're just like everyone else. plans, you see. Just remember, in our

It is just not worth it. Those type of up to our individual lives it is so easy to be mediocre.

average people that can drag us down But with a little faith, attitude, and commitment to soar like are, in my mind, people who are too vision, you can be like that eagle and lazy to take control of their attitudes an eagle and not get soar. and make the most of the situation. caught up in mediocre People who live above the level of A chapter is almost complete in this mediocrity have learned to control madness. book of my own, their attitudes. Mom, Dad, and K-State friends, it 's time—I'm coming home. Now there are going to be times when you visualize yourself flying and you have total control of your attitude, but Making visions reality, controlling our Every time the sun sets, another day the hard knocks of life are beating attitudes, and living a life of faith ends. But a new one is just around down your front door. That's when begins with you. Many people can the corner. It's up to you to make the you focus on yourself and your faith. support and help us along the way, but most of that day. As you leave this

Not only do I mean faith in a power it is up to our individual commitment convention, decide what kind of from up above, but I mean faith in to soar like an eagle and not get attitude you're going to have. Will ourselves and faith in others. We can caught up in mediocre madness. you settle for mediocrity? Or will you choose to live a life of fear or a life of expand your vision and rely on your faith. We cannot have both. We can To try to sum up this entire year faith? FFA members, I challenge you fear that our friends might break their with one retiring address, well, it to let the sun set on mediocre promises. We can fear the food in the would be a little crazy, but I did madness. Only then can you truly school cafeteria. We can fear that we write a few words that I would like spread your wings and soar. might not go to college, or we can to share with you. have faith that everything will fall into place and it will all work out. Last

June I received a phone call from my parents concerning my grandmother. Countless hours away from home, She had been diagnosed with cancer. This year was all of ours, not just She had lived by herself for thirty my own. years and this was to be the biggest and last challenge she would face. No Conventions, conferences, and flights. matter how sick she got, no matter Throughout this year, I have seen the how hard it was for my mom and our sights. Many were big and fancy, you family, Grandma Ellen had faith that see, From Vice President Gore, to the when she passed on she would be in a Japanese Sea. better place. Abby Dougherty, National FFA Secretary what matters most 72nd National FFA Convention Second Convention Session

Let's see, I got this e-mail from Patrick in To me having faith means believing in listen to one person's remarks on only

Mississippi and he says what matters most to him yourself, having confidence in your one song. I lost faith in my piano is, "The people who instilled in me the values and abilities and knowing you can accom- skills and I lost faith in myself. morals that I hold so dear to my heart." Dusti plish your goals. It can be one of the from Arizona says. "What matters most to me is a toughest things you'll ever have to do. I learned from my experience that friend who will stay by me to the end." what matters most to me is not

According to Matt from Illinois, "My family is listening to what others say, but what matters most." What matters most to Jamie listening to my heart. It's only from Idaho is "family and friends who build me As a little child, I natural to remember the hurtful things up." Kelly from Oklahoma e-mailed that what that thought that what people say about us, but we truly mattered most to him is "trust in God." And become successful when we rise Derin from Wisconsin says that what matters most mattered most was a above that and put faith in ourselves. to her "is that I can and do believe in myself." famous astronaut, a What does faith mean to you? It But how do I reply to the question, what matters pioneer or even a means giving oral reasons in a career most? development event, even though you country music star. dread it. It means running for a I have always loved the verse from 1 Corinthians With my involvement in chapter or regional office, or 13:13 which is about giving others faith, hope and organizing a community activity. It love. Those three things will remain, hold true the FFA, I found out all comes down to having faith in and allow you to help others and yourself achieve yourself and faith in a higher power. that having a title after success. It is important to me to have faith in yourself, encourage others with hope, and live a my name or winning a When you have faith in yourself, you life of love-it can be one of the most remarkable encourage others and give them hope. contest really aren't things you do. what matters. When I was in fourth grade, we

In third grade I became very interested in space studied Indiana and American history. and astronauts. In fact, I became so interested that I learned all about the pioneers settling when I finished my work in class I would go to in my home state. We then moved on the learning lab and do reports on planets. I want- When I was in eighth grade I entered to learning about the Oregon Trail and ed to be an astronaut so badly. I wanted to be the the state piano competition. I went in I became fascinated by the pioneers. first person to walk on Jupiter! So you can imag- and played my piece, Clementi's Opus ine my disappointment when I found out that No. 36 movements one, two and three. I wanted to be a pioneer! I would go

Jupiter is a gaseous planet and no one will ever be I received a perfect score and attained out to the field and pick some ears of able to set foot there. But more than being an a Division I rating. I was so pumped corn and crush it into corn dust to astronaut, I wanted to be a great person and that that I decided to move up to a more make corn bread. I thought that they people would write about in the history books. advanced level next year. I picked out had so many exciting adventures. Then other third graders could learn about my the song Fantasy in D Minor by adventures. So what mattered most to me in third Mozart. This was one of the most But then I learned that they traveled in grade was becoming a famous astronaut like Neil difficult pieces I had every played. It freezing cold, many times went

Armstrong. had difficult rhythms and runs, so I without food and they had to sleep

practiced and practiced. At the com- under the wagon, no matter if it rained

Neil Armstrong was the first to take steps on the petition I had faith that I could play or snowed. I then decided that maybe moon. Our generation grew up knowing that man my piece. I played my heart out for being a pioneer wasn't all it was had set foot on moon. It didn't seem like such a the judge. It was the best I had ever cracked up to be. I was still amazed by big deal because so many people had done it. But played. I anxiously waited outside for the pioneers' story of everlasting hope. for our parents and grandparents, this was beyond my results. When I found out I had To leave your home and travel west to their wildest imagination. In 1969, millions of received a Division II rating, I was an unknown land would require hav-

Americans put their faith and belief in Neil crushed! I read through all of the ing hope that stands the test of time.

Armstrong, as he did what many believed to be judge's comments and he did not write Many of them went hungry, cold and the impossible. I cannot imagine the faith Neil one positive comment. I was so heart- had to fight off illness. Families were

Armstrong must have had in himself to take such broken. I sat outside the room and down to nothing but hope-it kept their a risk. cried. After that competition I totally pioneering spirit alive.

lost interest in playing the piano and I

stopped taking lessons. I chose to retiring address

To encourage and support someone in we define love?" When I think of music stars. There was no end to the talent in our achieving their goals is to give them what love might look like, I think of family. hope. the people in my life-family and

friends. Living a life of love means The reason we liked the Mandrell Show so much

While I was in Hawaii for their state taking care of the relationships with was because they were all sisters and shared their FFA convention I witnessed hope! your family and friends. love for each other every Saturday night as they are three Mahina. Jason and Shannon played and sang together. I understand that love state officers I met there. They took Growing up, my parents and sisters and close relationship because that's what we me to a waterfall so we could go taught me many lessons. I may not share in our family. The singing may not have swimming. Over by the waterfall. specifically remember the time Mom been the same, but the closeness sure was. there was a rock-a really big and slippery rock! tried to Shannon climb The lesson that I may have learned the most this to the the several top of rock times but year, is just how important relationships with

couldn't quite it make because of the families and friends are. These special people in

tremendous upper body strength it my life have given me the love I needed to be required. Even when Mahina tried to who am I today. help her. it still proved to be too difficult. Shannon was getting tired What matters the very most to me is living a life and discouraged but Mahina kept of love. encouraging her. After several attempts Mahina got Shannon to the We should continue to share love with everyone top of that It rock. was Mahina's we meet. You can give love to others by helping belief in Shannon that gave her the a friend with a tough homework assignment, hope to continue. talking to the new student in school, or simply encouraging someone to join FFA.

As I watched Shannon and Mahina I realized how important supporters are! As a little child, I thought that what mattered need people to We encourage us. most was being a famous astronaut, a pioneer or Sometimes they are the ones who even a country music star. With my involvement make us stick with our goals and in the FFA, I found out that having a title after dreams. my name or winning a contest really aren't what matters. To give hope to others can be very positive and powerful. Let others in Dear FFA members. your chapter and school, know that

you believe in them by the little things taught me how to make my bed or Thank you for the best year of my life! I have you do. Give them a good-luck card when Dad taught fish. me how to It discovered this year that what matters most to me before they compete in the creed was all of those little lessons that is having FAITH in myself, giving HOPE to

speaking contest. Give someone more instilled in the values I me that have others and living a life of LOVE. What matters responsibility for chapter activities, or today. It's the little moments with our most to you? I encourage you to discover your simply give a little hope. I family can prom- members that make us who we own answer. Once you do, then pursue those ise will you be surprised by what hap- are. things passionately. pens. More people will achieve greater success! What matters most to One of those moments happened every Thanks again! is me providing hope for others to Saturday night as my sisters and I help them succeed. tuned in to watch Barbara Mandrell I believe in you,

and The Mandrell Sisters. It was pret- Abby :) When we give others hope, it let's ty convenient because there were three them know that you care about them. Mandrells and there just so happened I guess I can't pick just one thing that matters the But more importantly you are living a to be three of us. most to me. But I know when you have faith in life full of love. yourself, when you encourage others with hope, We couldn't resist pretending to be the and when you live a life of love that's when life "Faith, hope and love will remain but Mandrell Sisters. My oldest sister Jill begins to matter. the greatest of these is love." I love was Barbara, my sister Erin was that verse from 1 Corinthians. That Louise and I was Irlene. We would Message sent! leads me to the question, "How do sing along and pretend to be country national chapter

Sponsored by Cargill and the National FFA Foundation General Fund

The National Chapter Award is designed to recognize excellence in chapter activities and programs. This year, 7,268 chapters vied for a National Chapter Award. Areas THREE STAR TWO STAR include developing student leaders, working ALABAMA: Eufaula ARIZONA: Antelope, Gilbert together to form strong chapters and ARIZONA: Chino Valley. Peoria ARKANSAS: Valley Springs community development programs. CALIFORNIA: Ripon CALIFORNIA: Arroyo Grande. Del COLORADO: Arickaree. McClave Norte, Fallbrook. Firebaugh, Fontana, GEORGIA: Gilmer County, Jackson Fresno-Central, La Puente Valley The top three chapters were selected as County Rop. Norco, Quartz Hill Models of Innovation in student, chapter IDAHO: Cambridge, Kuna COLORADO: Eaton, Heohne. and community development. Students ILLINOIS: Amboy. Cissna Park. Pueblo County, Springfield. Valley. from each chapter were congratulated on Franklin Center. Mount Vernon, Woodlin stage and presented with a plaque. Olney, Seneca, Valmeyer CONNECTICUT: Housatonic INDIANA: Adams Central, Benton Valley

Central. Carroll, Clinton Central, DELAWARE: Smyrna. Sussex NATIONAL WINNER STUDENT DEVELOPMENT Delphi. Shenandoah. Switzerland Central County, Western Boone, Woodlan FLORIDA: Armwood, Clewiston, Freeman FFA Chapter, Nebraska IOWA: Creston, Harlan, St. Ansgar Dade City Senior, Durant Senior. East Freeman FFA members participated in a wide variety KENTUCKY: Apollo. Spencer Co Bay Senior. Ft. White Middle. of projects and events to enhance student development and increase involvement in their new chapter. Members MAINE: Presquelsle Lafayette Senior, New Smyrna Beach produced and presented agricultural television, newspaper MARYLAND: Caroline. Easton MS. North Marion. Okeechobee and radio spots. The chapter conducted a Tobacco Free MICHIGAN: Perry Brahman, Orlando Colonial, Pine use Program demonstrating the damage of tobacco and the MINNESOTA: Benson, Stillwater Ridge. Ponce de Leon, Sebring Senior benefits of a healthy lifestyle without tobacco. They also MISSOURI: Aurora. Carthage. Suwannee Senior utilized a swine cooperative to enable non-rural members Eldorado Springs, Marionville. GEORGIA: Bacon County, Colquitt the opportunity to try hands-on animal care. Monroe City R-l, North Shelby. County, Irwin. Jeff Davis, Murray NATIONAL WINNER Salisbury, Sweet Springs, Troy, Union County CHAPTER DEVELOPMENT MISSISSIPPI: Carthage IDAHO: Meridian NEBRASKA: Freeman, Norris, ILLINOIS: Ashton. Blue Ridge, Seneca FFA Chapter, Illinois Schuyler, Superior. Sutton, Syracuse- Bushnell-Prairie City, Chicago Ag The innovative members of the Seneca FFA Chapter coordinated an Agriculture Progress Show for the Dunbar-Avoca Science. Cisne, Clinton, Eldorado, community to improve public awareness of agricultural NEVADA: Ruby Mountain, Silver Greenville, Leroy, Manteno, education and the FFA. They also hosted the 1 1th Annual Sage Morrisonville, Mount Carroll. Seneca FFA Toy Show, Sale and Auction, which attracted NEW MEXICO: Alamogordo Newark, Paxton-Buckley-Loda, more than 800 guests. The chapter profited more than $2,500 NORTH CAROLINA: Piedmont, Payson, Serena, Somonauk-Leland, from the food stand, table rentals and auction commission. South Rowan Tri Valley Comm. Warsaw, Webber In cooperation with their FFA Alumni affiliate, the members NORTH DAKOTA: Rugby INDIANA: Brownstown Central, added on to their land lab building. The building will house a Flora. Central. sale ring, storage area, workshop, restrooms. kitchen and an OHIO: Miami Trace Carroll at Monroe office costing more than $40,000. PENNSYLVANIA: Conococheague/ North Harrison, North Posey, Oak James Buchanon. Grassland, Spud Hill. Prairie Heights. South Adams, NATIONAL WINNER Growers, West Snyder STAR Academy COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT SOUTH CAROLINA: Aiken. Latta. IOWA: Algona, Bison, Charles City, Garretson FFA Chapter, South Dakota Loris G & G, Maquoketa Valley, Marengo, The Garretson FFA members improved lives of senior SOUTH DAKOTA: Garretson, Monticello, Mount Ayr., Osceola, Red citizens in their hometown by constructing hanging plant McCook Central, West Central Oak, Sibley-Ocheyedan, Vinton. boxes and filling them with home grown flowers for the TENNESSEE: Bradley Central Wapsie Valley, West Marshall assisted living apartments. Their "Safety is Elementary" TEXAS: Bryan. Katy, Mansfield, KANSAS: Abilene, Arkansas City, program provided the opportunity for members to present Mission, Nacogdoches, Weimar Atwood, Chapman. Highland, Hill programs on safety to elementary students with topics Central, James Wood, City, Holton, Marysville, Mission ranging from safety on the farm to riding the bus. This VIRGINIA: division recognized Garretson FFA in their efforts to Laurel Park, Park View Sr Valley improve the community's financial health, preserve natural WASHINGTON: Monroe, Yelm KENTUCKY: Central Hardin. resources, promote citizenship and increase agricultural WISCONSIN: Bloomer. Denmark, Jessamine County. Meade County . awareness. Pulaski, Spencer, Waupaca, Scott County Weyauwega-Fremont TWO STAR continued Lancaster - Mennonite, Lenape Dr. Larry Case,

national I I A ad\ ism AVTS, Manor. Middleburg, extends a handshake Hathaway, Selinsgrove. Twin Valley LOUISIANA: and congratulations to Lacassine. Midland, North Central SOUTH CAROLINA: Central, a top FFA chapter in the National - Chapter High, Oak Grove . Welsh Golden Strip. Wagener Salley Award program. MICHIGAN: Byron, Corunna. SOUTH DAKOTA: Elkton, Marshall. Montague, Unionville- Milbank Sebewaing TENNESSEE: Anderson County,

MINNESOTA: Battle Lake, Blue Cherokee, Dyersburg, East

Earth, Forest Lake. Menahga, New Robertson. Lexington. McMinn

Ulm, Nicollet, Perham. County. Munford, Portland, Staples/Motley, Upsala, USC, Riverside Watertown-Mayer. Zumbrota- TEXAS: Calallen. Central. Clear

Mazeppa Lake. Columbus, Klein Forest, MISSOURI: Cameron. Klein Oak, Rockdale. Snyder Chillieothe. Clopton. Eldon. UTAH: Fremont. Morgan KANSAS: Buhler. Inman, TENNESSEE: Gordonsville. Gallatin. Glasgow, Logan - VIRGINIA: Dinwiddie. Louisa. Johnson County, Norton, Sabetha, Johnson County. North Knox. Rogersville. Memphis, Milan, Signal Knob Middle. Stonewall. Solomon. South Barber Peabody. Powell Valley Salem. Sarcoxie Strasburg. Turner Ashby KENTUCKY: Breckinridge, TEXAS: Banquete. Brenham. MONTANA: Carter County. WASHINGTON: Cathlamet. Fulon. McLean Co., Mercer, Ohio Brownsboro. Burleson. Clear Cascade. Conrad. Flathead. Park. Elma. Evergreen, Mabton. Co., Oldham Co., Pendelton Co.. Brook. Clear Creek. Cleburne. Shields Valley Mountain View, Onalaska, Webster Co. Coldspring. Cotulla, Crawford. NEBRASKA: Blue Hill, Centura, Ritzville. Snohomish. Wenatchee. LOUISIANA: Beau Chene Del Valle, Devine. East Chambers, Fullerton, Northwest, Pender, Tri White River. Willapa Valley. MASSACHUSETTES: Essex Fairfield. Garland, Hamshire- County. Verdigre Winlock. Zillah MINNESOTA: Brainerd. Fannett, Humble. Jacksboro, NEW JERSEY: Allentown. WEST VIRGINIA: Ravens wood, Montevideo, Randolph, Tracy, Klein, Lake Travis, Lewisville, Penns Grove. Woodstown Ripley. Roane County, St Marys, Will mar McCullough, McGregor, NEW MEXICO: Animas, Wirt County MISSISSIPPI: Neshoba Central. McKinney, Mexia, Navasota. New Artesia, Aztec, Goddard. WISCONSIN: Barron, Big Foot, Nettleton Caney, Northwest, Orange Grove. Magdalena. Mesa Vista Clear Lake, Granton, Loyal, MISSOURI: Appleton City. Pilot Point. Piano East Senior NEW YORK: Cuba-Rushford Marshfield. Stevens Point, Verona Clark County R-I, Crane, East High. Pleasanton. Quanah. Royal NORTH CAROLINA: Clinton, WYOMING: Paintrock Newton. Owensville High School. Ryan. Saltillo. Sealy. West Carteret MONTANA: Peerless Sinton, Spring, Tidehaven, Tom NORTH DAKOTA: Divide NEW HAMPSHIRE: Region #9 Bean. Tomball. Troup. Troy County. Garrison. Hillsboro. NORTH DAKOTA: Maddock UTAH: Bear River. Emery Sr.. Lisbon. Turtle Lake Mercer ONE STAR AS Gibbons Grantsville. South Summit OHIO: Anna. Blanchester, OHIO: Ansonia. Canal VERMONT: Central Vermont Bowling Green. East Clinton. ALABAMA: Enterprise, Winchester. Cardington, VIRGINIA: Drewry Mason Hardin Northern. Indian Valley, Geraldine Elmwood. Greenville, Lancaster, Middle. Ft. Defiance. Nelson London, Margaretta, National ARKANSAS: Melbourne. Lynchburg Clay, Marysville, Senior. Northumberland. Trail. New Bremen. Preble Mountain Home Jr., Paris, Prairie Minster, Pettisville, River View, Sherando, Stuarts Draft. Walter S. Shawnee. River Valley. Talawanda. Grove Riverdale. Tri-Village, Twin Valley Newman Versailles CALIFORNIA: Eureka, Righetti South, Wellington. West WASHINGTON: Grandview. OKLAHOMA: Burlington, COLORADO: Platte Valley Muskingum, Wilmington Granger, Kettle Falls Chickasha, Durant, El Reno. Elgin, FLORIDA: Columbia, West OKLAHOMA: Carter, WEST VIRGINIA: Hampshire Fairview. Glencoe, Grandfield, Orange Cleveland, Fletcher, Konawa, WISCONSIN: Black Hawk- Morris. Mulhall - Orlando, GEORGIA: Cook. Miller Lookeba-Sickles, Medford, South Wayne, Elkhorn. Evansville. Pawnee. Tuttle, Waynoka County, Perry Mooreland. Ninnekah, Roland. Fort Atkinson, Lodi. Mishicot. OREGON: Canby, Central, ILLINOIS: Indiana Creek, Ryan. Verden, Woodland Montello. New Holstein. Prairie Perrydale Monticello PENNSYLVANIA: Cowanesque, Farm. Stratford. Waupun. PENNSYLVANIA: IOWA: Agri-Power, Cascade, Cumberland Valley Wonewoc-Center Brothersvalley, Greenwood, Edgewood, Hawkeye, Mid-Prairie, SOUTH DAKOTA: Harrisburg. WYOMING: Cheyenne. Pine North Fayette Bluffs. Wind River. national chapter 1 oo%

States with increases in FFA Four states were recognized for having 100% FFA membership: California, membership North Dakota, Ohio and Oklahoma. This means that every chapter in each of include: these states has all their students who are enrolled in agricultural education as FFA members.

Alaska A successful program will have quality classroom and laboratory instruction, a Arizona leadership and recognition component (FFA) and a career preparation segment Arkansas (supervised agricultural experience). These characteristics make agricultural California education stand out from other programs because of the intracurricular nature Delaware of the programs and activities offered to students. Students benefit from the Georgia instruction they receive while they apply what they have learned to their career Indiana choice. Louisiana There are hundreds of other chapters in the country who have 100% FFA Massachusetts membership, we pay tribute to you and commend you on a superior job of Montana preparing our youth for tomorrow. Nebraska Nevada New Jersey A representative New York from the Ohio association North Carolina happily accepts recognition for Oregon achieving

Tennessee 1 00-percent membership, as Utah an Oklahoma representative Virginia West looks on. Wyoming 1 VIP citations

Individuals providing exemplary service to the National FFA Organization received VIP

Citations at the 72nd National FFA Convention, Oct. 27-30, including Dr. Clifton Braker of West Fork, AR; Ted Gregg of Chico, CA; A. Charles Fischer of Carmel, IN; Duane Acker of Atlantic. IA; Leon Schumacher of Columbia, MO: John W. Watkins of Marion, OH; Dr. Rosco Vaughn of Lorton, VA; Ken Milholland of Tenino, WA; Gov. Cecil H. Underwood of Charleston, WV; and Merle Bodmer of Racine, WI. In appreciation of their overwhelming generosity and support, these

ten individuals were honored with VIP citations.

Duane Acker of Atlantic, IA, John W. Watkins of Prospect, Dr. Rosco Vaughn of Lorton, VA has been responsible for food OH, served in various served as state supervisor for 20 and agriculture programs for agricultural capacities for 18 years and executive director for the various U.S. agencies, including years, directing the Ohio FFA National Council for Agricultural the United States Department of state judging contests. Watkins Education for the past four years. Agriculture's (USDA) currently serves as the Marion Previously the state supervisor for International Cooperation and County Commissioner, where he New Mexico, Dr. Vaughn helped Development Office, the Foreign chairs the Agriculture and Rural develop core competencies and a Agriculture Service and the U.S. Affairs committee. He retired strategic plan for agricultural Agency for International from his former position as Ohio education while serving as FFA Development. Acker served as Agricultural Education state advisor and chief assistant Secretary for Science Supervisor in 1985. administrative officer for the and Education at USDA until his New Mexico FFA Association. retirement in 1993.

Ted Gregg of Chico, CA, is a

Dr. Leon Schumacher, associate former agricultural consultant and Ken Milholland of Tenino, WA,

professor of agriculture at the regional supervisor for the taught agricultural education for University of Missouri in California Department of more than 30 years before retiring. Columbia, Mo., served as both Education in Sacramento. He During his tenure. Milholland a committee member and served as statewide Agricultural worked to encourage participation superintendent for the national Incentive Grant coordinator and in poultry science and production agricultural mechanics career writer of the CDE "Blueprint for throughout the state of development event (CDE). In Excellence." Under Gregg's Washington. He served as state

both of these roles, he has been leadership, California's Superior FFA contest coordinator for 1

highly instrumental in Region produced 1 30 American years and superintendent for the

establishing skill areas and Farmers. 1 ,910 State Farmers, 92 national prepared public speaking directing team activity. state proficiency winners. 172 career development event (CDE) state championship teams and 26 for four years.

Dr. Clifton Braker. a professor state officers.

at University of Arkansas in West Fork. Ark., served as associate Gov. Cecil H. Underwood of superintendent for the national A. Charles Fischer of Charleston, WV. is currently agricultural mechanics career Carmel, IN, president and CEO serving his second gubernatorial development event (CDE) for of Dow AgroSciences, has been a term. As a strong supporter of FFA three years prior to his retirement. National FFA Executive Sponsor and agricultural education. He had previously served for for six years and recently served Underwood recently signed into several years as a judge or contest as chairman of the National FFA law legislation mandating science official for the event, and was Foundation Sponsors' Board. He credit for agriculture classes. A

highly instrumental in eliciting successfully directed the efforts to former FFA member. Underwood

university students to assist with raise $7.2 million for the annual has served as chairman of the West the CDE. campaign and $5.2 million for the Virginia State Advisory Council capital campaign. He has also for Vocational Education. Merle Bodmer of Waterford. WI, served on the FFA Board of

has been active in the national Trustees. agricultural mechanics career development event (CDE) for the past 12 years, working through the

Case Corporation to supply equipment for the event. He served

as a consultant in the development

of skill activities and has taken an active role in CDE planning. .

honorary FFA degrees - FFA supporters

Honorary American FFA Degree recipients exemplify the true meaning of the FFA and its mission with their own way of expressing premier leadership, personal growth and career success. Recipients of this distinguished degree remind members how influential leaders are and the importance of supporting a worthy cause.

Recipients of this degree range from agricultural teachers who devote countless hours helping students to school and government officials who offer their expertise for the good of the organization and the people involved.

The National FFA Organization Honorary American FFA Degree is presented to such individuals to thank them for their continued support of the FFA and agricultural education. During the Friday morning session these honored individuals received their plaques and esteemed appreciation from the national officers

The Honorary FFA Degree program is designed to honor individuals who have rendered outstanding service to FFA. National FFA President, Lisa Ahrens, presents her parents with the degree. honorary FFA degrees

ARIZONA: Kenneth A. ILLINOIS: William B. Richard O. Johnson. Henning ; OKLAHOMA: Kendall

Gregersen, Gold Canyon Johnson, Joliet; Tom Reedy, Sung Kim. St. Paul; Bob Brashears, Fairview ; David

ARKANSAS: Barry Farris, DeKalb; Richard Ryan, Dekalb; Moraczweski. Minneapolis; Cantrell. Stillwater; Ron Hays.

Beebe Perry Schneider, Lincoln; Guy R. Shoemaker, Oklahoma City

CALIFORNIA: Don Borges, Roland A. Thompson, Minneapolis; Ed Shonsey. PENNSYLVANIA: Michael G.

Modesto; Lee Bucknell. Hinckley; Robert M. Van Golden Valley; Mark E. Schwarz. Westfield

Modesto; Alan Cover. Patten. Edwardsville; Jim Stenzel, St. Paul RHODE ISLAND: Patricia

Modesto; Robert A. Flores. Williams. Bloomington MISSOURI: David L. Abbott, Millar, West Kingston

San Luis Obispo: Joseph INDIANA: Jennifer Conway, Chesterfield; Frederic E. SOUTH CAROLINA: Benjie

Martinez, Winters ; Phil Indianapolis; Vicki Settle, Schrodt, Kansas City Rhoad, Columbia; Charles R.

Nelson, Walnut Creek Indianapolis; Sue Springirth. NEVADA: Bob Butler, Reno; Sharpe. Columbia

DELAWARE: John F. Indianapolis NEW JERSEY: Robert W. TEXAS: Tommy J. Davidson,

Tarburton. Dover; Sharon KENTUCKY: Wayford B. Bender, Penns Grove ; Julian J. Gainvesville; Joe Muller,

Morgan. Easton Metzger. Frankfort; Ron Scott. Garcia, Iselin; Howard Minigh. Huntsville; Mike Nathanson.

FLORIDA: Foster Dickard. Louisville; David Snowden, Parsippany; Christine T. Houston; Ben Shaw, Austin;

Cantonment; Gary Lee. Louisville; Harold Workman, Whitman. Trenton Lon Shell, San Marcos;

Sebring; Earl J. Lennard. Louisville NEW MEXICO: Murry D. Herman Wilson. Houston

Tampa; Joseph E. Stephens. MARYLAND: Robert Avery, Alamogordo; Robert M. VIRGINIA: Jerry H.Gass,

Tallahassee Valentine, Tunkhannock Torres, Las Cruces Richmond; Jay Jackman.

GEORGIA: Mary J. MICHIGAN: Harrison NORTH CAROLINA: Alexandria ; Paul Stapleton,

Jamieson. Atlanta; Ann R. Gardner, East Lansing ; H. Paul Graham Boyd. Raleigh; Barry Richmond

Purcell, Atlanta; Henry L. Roberts, East Lansing; Jim Croom, Raleigh; Robert H. WEST VIRGINIA: Benny

Reaves, Atlanta; Roy A. Stowe, Schrandt, Jackson Usry, Raleigh Renick, South Charleston

Jefferson MINNESOTA: Tim Clause, OHIO: Joe Haines. Columbus; WISCONSIN: James L.

IDAHO: Maynard A. Bloomington; Alice K. Hite, Columbus; Irwin, Racine; Wallace H.

Fosberg, Moscow; Donna M. Bernadette Siekman, Delaware; Jerome, Barron

Hyatt, Payette WYOMING: Dick G. Hiser, Saratoga honorary american FFA degree - agriculture teacher

ALABAMA: Gregory D. Hamner. NORTH DAKOTA: Joel Lemer, Florence; Mike Hogan.Troy; Joe F. Carnngton p,MERIC4/V, Snell, Ariton; Thomas Swaffield. ^ McCalla OHIO: Nathan W. McNeal, West

Lafayette; John F. Poulson, Pettisville ARIZONA: Ray Gless. Mesa OKLAHOMA: Alan G. Smith. Cushing ARKANSAS: Troy Buck, Amity OREGON: William C. Rizor, Harrisburg CALIFORNIA: Carl Arend, Yucaipa; Joel Briggs. Littlerock; Bob Crabtree, PENNSYLVANIA: Brian J. Campbell, Campbell; Roger Dickson, Modesto; Ron New Oxford; Robert Leib. Furtado, Livermore; Gary Hunt, La Mechanicsburg Habra; Melissa McBride, Indio; Hugh Mooney, Gait; Douglas Moss, Escondido; RHODE ISLAND: David L. Lewis, Robert Pearcy, Visalia; David Pritchard, North Scituate El Centra; Carl Wright, Gait SOUTH CAROLINA: Benjamin W. COLORADO: Delbert R Chase. Hardee, Loris McClave TEXAS: Ray Briscoe, Three Rivers; IDAHO: Gary Abercrombie. Aberdeen Herbert R. Casey, Jr.Teague; Jack DeShazo, Aledo; Dennis Ellebracht. San ILLINOIS: Mary Barnes, Barry Antonio; Tammy D. Glascock, Pilot Point; Paul A. Jaure, Beeville; Donnie KENTUCKY: Johnnie W. Mathias, Kiker, Anson; James Weston, Henderson Farmersville; Ron Whitson, Mansfield

MICHIGAN: Kenneth A. Bollinger, UTAH: Nile D. Carlson. Clearfield; Adrian; Bob Stein, Standish Allan R. Sulser, Heber City

MINNESOTA: Tim G. Larson. Nicollet VIRGINIA: Lemuel S. Massie. Arrington; Gary W. Thomas. Ringgold MISSOURI: Rod Barr. Maryville; Paul D. Light, Thayer; George R. Shively, Sr, WEST VIRGINIA: Carol W. Webb. Overwhelmed by the moment. Jennifer Conway Ewiny; Martin F. Wagner. Sarcoxie Keyser planted a big kiss on national officer James Garner

iter she received her Honorary American FFA NEBRASKA: Craig A. Frederick. Cairo; WISCONSIN: Troy Lobdell, Darlington; Degree. Lonnie Koepke, Broken Bow Mark L. Zimmerman. Spencer

NORTH CAROLINA: William I. Enzor, WYOMING: Randy Epler. Yoder

Jr., Cerro Gordo; Harvey E. Franklin,

Marshall; Michael J. Holt, Asheville; Charles L. Michel, Marshall; Roger H. Teeple, Black Mountain

honorary FFA degrees

tarents of national officers parents of STAR finalists retiring national FFA board of California: John Garner and Star Farmer directors: Janet Garner Iowa: Jon and Carol Ann Jordahl trustees and Indiana: David and Gwendolyn Dougherty Kansas: Chuck and Debbie Springer consultants

Iowa: Donald and Marylou Ahrens Minnesota: Larry and Sherry Baumgardt Karen Hutchison Ernie Gill Kansas: Robert and Melva Armbruster North Dakota: Roger and Jeanette Kenner Jim Connors

Ohio: Robert and Beverly Buxton Star in Agribusiness Mike Cox Cindy Fannon Vosler Illinois: JR. and Barb Harris Puerto Rico: Ana Gonzalez Barry Anderson Indiana: Dennis and Susan Bailey Marc Beitia William T. Boehm

Oklahoma: Craig and Paula Hale

Texas: Donald and Marilyn Weber outreach efforts FFA international programs

Thanks to international programs, students from around the globe are able to enjoy the FFA experience. Highly structured programs for members ages 16 through 24 are offered through the EARTH Tour Seminar, Adventure New Zealand and the Australia Homestay Program as well as many other short-term programs. For older members ages 1 8 to 24, FFA offers longer-term internship experiences on agriculture operations, in other countries, internship experiences at United States Embassies for the Foreign Agricultural Service of USDA, or opportunities for a one-month experience at EARTH The Partners in Active Learning Support program (PALS) is aimed at pairing FFA College in Costa Rica. members with children in mentoring relationships. Workshops during the convention taught FFA members how to relate to their young friends. International awareness increased during convention at the career show's Global Village. Planned Partners in Active Learning Support (PALS) is a mentoring activities celebrated 50 years of program matching high school agriculture students with FFA international programs, elementary youngsters who have special needs. Developed including an international dinner, by the National FFA Organization, the program helps those an International Student Exchange involved to build trust in others and develop positive Program (ISEP) luncheon for self-esteem. Through this program, high school and German students enrolled in elementary students explore their interests in plants, animals American FFA, a Toyota teacher and the world around them. session and information program, ethnic dancers and activities like The PALS mission is to provide a total, dynamic education Origami, Japanese name writing system that contributes to personal, academic and career and making pinatas. development. The convention focused on mentoring and included FFA members working with more than 700 For more information about FFA third-graders. The program was sponsored by the Fifth Third international programs, log on to Bank of Kentucky, Electric Cooperatives and The Gheens http://www.ffa.org/international or Foundation, Inc. Kraft Foods also donated lunch to all call toll-free 1-888-332-7853. participants of the PALS convention. national FFA alumni I The National FFA Alumni

Association is an essential alumni to component FFA members and their future. The National FFA

Organization's continued success is attributed to the devotion and positive impact of alumni.

This year the alumni conducted their 27th convention encompassing business sessions and award presentations. Their main focus, however, are the live and silent auctions. Last year alumni raised

nearly $72,000 at the auction and this year the number topped $95,000.

The alumni were extremely appreciative of the support from Scott County and the state of Kentucky. Going once, going twice. SOLD! This year's alumni auction raised $95,000 for programs sponsored by the alumni association. They welcomed the alumni and FFA members with a helping hand, making the move from Kansas City an easy transition.

This year's auction provided bidders with a vast selection of items, from a 2000 Chevy truck, to a round

baler, a livestock trailer and even tickets to the National Finals Rodeo. If the fast-paced ways of the

auctioneer were not attendees style,

plenty of items were available at the silent auction.

The National FFA Alumni

Association is composed of volunteers, including former FFA members, parents and others interested in supporting the FFA. FFA alumni reminisced about past national conventions at their annual meeting at the 72nd National FFA convention. Nationwide, about 45,000 supporters are FFA alumni members. foundation inguished retiring service citations board

The Distinguished Service Citation was presented at the 72nd David L. Abbott: Retired President & CEO, Purina Mills. Inc. National FFA Convention, Oct. 28, to three companies and John L. Killmer: Ph.D., Managing Director. Monsanto Company John Middlebrook: Vice President General Vehicle organizations providing outstanding service and opportunities to G. & Manager. Brand Marketing. General Motors Corporation the National FFA Organization: Farm Progress Companies, Inc. Henry "Chic" Mohr: Director of Market Development. National of Carol Stream. IL; Dow AgroSciences of Indianapolis, IN; Shooting Sports Foundation, Inc. and The W.K. Kellogg Foundation of Battle Creek, MI. Robert Moraczewski: Senior Vice President & General Manager, Intertec Publishers. Agribusiness Division For 44 years. Farm Progress has supported the National FFA Kenwood C. Nichols: Vice Chairman and Executive Officer, Foundation, contributing not only financial support, but Champion International Corporation providing support necessary for its president and publisher, Richard O. Ryan: Vice President, North American Markets, Monsanto Global Seed Group Allan R. Johnson, to serve as chairman of the National FFA Frederic E. Schrodt: Retired Vice President. Transportation, Foundation Sponsors' Board. The current publisher of the FFA Farmland Industries. Inc. magazine, FFA New Horizons, which is mailed directly to the Guy R. Shoemaker: President, North American Flour more than 450,000 members. Farm Progress has played an Milling, Cargill integral part in the success of the magazine. Monty R. Summa: Vice President, Crop Protection Products. Agro Distribution, LLC Through 44 years of service, Dow AgroSciences has guide Robert M. Van Patten: Retired President. IMC AgriBusiness Inc. agricultural education and FFA through transition years. Herman T. Wilson, Jr.: President. Pioneer Equipment Co. In 1996, the company was heavily involved in recruiting the National FFA Center to Indianapolis, offering five acres of land at a reduced cost for its site. In addition. Dow AgroSciences continues as a five-star sponsor after investing $1.3 million dollars in the National FFA Foundation.

The W.K. Kellogg Foundation has made several financial The National FFA Foundation contributions to major agricultural education and projects. FFA set an all-time fundraising The Foundation was the lead contributor to the Project PALS record in 1 999 to support annual contribution Partners Safer Program, made a to For a projects and programs for FFA sponsoring institution for the Community and was the major and agricultural education. The initiative Reinventing Agricultural Education (RAE) for the announcement was made during year 2020. the Thursday evening session that the FFA Foundation raised $7,310,000. The FFA recognized sponsors for their faithful support of the national organization. Al 1999 National FFA Foundation Johnson, president and publisher Sponsors' Board Chairman of Farm Progress Companies William T Boehm, said "the and A. Charles Fischer, president and CEO of Dow AgroSciences, contributions of more than 1,300

earned the Distinguished Service sponsors are what make it all Citation. possible in the preparation of FFAs future leaders and maintaining our vital agricultural community."

Boehm introduced the 2000 National FFA Foundation Sponsors' Board Chairman-Elect R.W. "Bud" Porter, senior vice president. North American Marketing of Deere and Company. Porter announced the

2000 Foundation theme is,

"Invest in Today's Generation." 1 5-25-35-50 year

50 Year Sponsors I foundation Lee Company, Shawnee Mission, KS Gold Kist, Inc., Atlanta, GA

35 Year Sponsors Associated Milk Producers, Inc., New Ulm, MN Virginia Agribusiness Council, Richmond, VA executive council Welch's, Concord, MA 25 Year Sponsors 1999 Chairman American Morgan Horse Institute, West Chester, PA William T. Boehm, Vice President - Logistics, Calcot, Ltd., Bakersfield, CA The Kroger Company First National Bank in Philip, Philip, SD 2000 Chairman - Elect First National Bank of Hutchinson, Hutchinson, KS R.W. "Bud" Porter, Senior Vice President, First State Bank of Fertile, Fertile, MN North American Agricultural Marketing. Friday Foundation, Incorporated, New Richmond, WI Deere & Company Ronald N. Goddard, Fayetteville, NY 2007 Chairman - Elect Golden Harvest Seeds, Incorporated, Bloomington. IL Paul J. Morel, Jr., Brand Strategy Manager, Ford Enos B. Heisey, Lebanon, PA Division - Ford Motor Company 1998 Chairman Rollie M. Hendrickson, Darien, CT A. Charles Fischer, President & CEO, ISK BioSciences Corporation, Mentor, OH Dow AgroSciences KenAG, Ashland, OH Kristico, Incorporated, Mankato, MN Glenn D. Luedke, Woodbridge. VA 2000 sponsors' board Moridge Manufacturing, Incorporated, Moundridge, KS David Phillipson, Sarasota, FL

Schneider - Valley Farms Dairy, Inc., Williamsport, James C. Borel: Vice President & General Manager, DuPont Agricultural Products PA Gerald W. Brase: Senior Vice President, Merchandising & Marketing, Tractor Wilbur L. Townsend, Auburn, NY Supply Company Joseph P. Burke: Director. Customer Business Development, The Coca-Cola Co. 15 Year Sponsors Christopher M. Cashman: Senior Director of Product and Business Don Armstrong, Okemos, MI Development. Pfizer Animal Health John Ameson, Stoughton, WI Curt Fankhauser: President & CEO, ffi Corporation Asgrow Seed - A division of the Max A. Fisher: Vice President, Public Relations and Communications, Monsanto Company, Des Moines, IA Purina Mills. Inc. Behlen Manufacturing Co., Columbus, NE Kenneth A. Gregersen: Industry Liaison. National Council for Agricultural Earle K. Borman. Jr., Naples, FL Education Bunge Corporation, St. Louis, MO Lawrence J. Gundrum: Senior Vice President. Operations, Kraft Foods, Inc. Jerry Hardy: Assistant Vice President, Kansas City Service Region, Burlington Larry & Joy Case, Fredericksburg, VA Northern Santa Fe Railroad Chief Industries, Inc., Grand Island, NE Michael N. Harreld: President & CEO, PNC Bank James H. Dunn, Yardley, PA Lynn O. Henderson: President & CEO, Doane Agricultural Services Co. Virgil Eihusen Foundation, Grand Island. NE John R. Hill: Senior Vice President, Sales & Marketing, Lester Building Systems The Ertl Company, Dyersville, IA Jerry Hillard: Vice President, Insurance Staff, Farmland Mutual Evergreen Mills, Inc., Ada, OK Insurance Company/A Nationwide Agribusiness Company Gustafson LLC, Piano, TX Stan Howell: Global Leader, Urban Pest Management and North America Nick D. Hein, Carmel, IN Trade Area Leader, Dow AgroSciences W. Dale Hess, Fallston, MD James L. Irwin: Vice President, N.A. Agricultural Equipment Sales. Case Corporation Indiana Farmers Mutual Insurance Group, Indianapolis, IN Phil Johnson: President, Colle & McVoy J. Patrick Kaine, Austin, TX

Diane D. Knutson: Vice President, Agricultural Products - Marketing Richard Katt, Lincoln, NE Transportation, Union Pacific Railroad Eugene C. Meyer, Fort Atkinson, WI James S. Ladlie: Ph.D.. President & CEO, Agri-Growth, Inc. Rhone-Poulenc Animal Nutrition, Alpharetta, GA Eric L. Moorehead, Ph.D.: Vice President, Technology, Tractor Supply Company, Nashville, TN Kellogg Brown & Root, Inc. Union Tools, Inc., Columbus, OH G. Kenneth Moshenek: President and COO, Royster-Clark, Inc. USDA/Farm Service Agency, Washington, DC Dennis M. Plummer: Vice President, Global Marketing & Business Development, Robert G. Wells, Austin, MN Global Seed Group, Monsanto Co. WestWayne, Inc., Atlanta, Douglas E. Punke: Vice President, Merchandising Manager, North American GA Corn Milling, Cargill Donald W. Wittnam, Greeley, CO Stanley A. Riemann: Executive Vice President and President, Crop Production WIX Filtration Products Division, Farmland Industries, Inc. Division of Dana Corporation, Gastonia, NC Bruce A. Scherr: President & CEO, Sparks Companies, Inc. World-Wide Sires, Inc., Visalia, CA Darrell J. Smith: Vice President Agricultural Investments, Metropolitan Life Insurance Co. Diane E. Stadlen: Senior Vice President, CMF&Z hall of states

Alabama Association • Alaska Association Arizona Association 'Arkansas Association California Association Colorado Association Connecticut Association

Delaware Association • Hawaii Association Idaho Association • Illinois Association Indiana Association • Iowa Association

Kansas Association • Kentucky Association Louisiana Association Maryland Association Massachusetts Association Michigan Association Mississippi Association

Montana Association • Nebraska Association New Hampshire Association New Jersey Association New Mexico Association New York Association

FFA members were allowed to fully experience the career show by taking an active part in North Dakota Association company's displays. Ohio Association • Oregon Association Pennsylvania Association Puerto Rico Association South Carolina Association South Dakota Association career show Tennessee Association • Texas Association Utah Association • Virginia Association Wisconsin Association The traffic was pleasantly congested Wyoming Association with thousands of FFA members, agricultural instructors and guests traveling though the largest Agricultural Career Show national show convention has ever seen. This year's show set an all-time record with 349 exhibitors representing agribusiness firms, government and military agencies, agricultural corporations and other organizations from across the nation occupying 108,000 square feet of show space.

This year's convention welcomed 97 new exhibitors to the show. The career show also offers 78 university and college booths providing members valuable information on the benefits of their college. This year, 39 state associations set-up booths proudly displaying their state and what makes them unique from others through pictures, paraphernalia and other information. Hobar Public.itions/Finney Company Purdue University exhibitors Horticopia Inc. Purina Mills, Inc. Hummert International Racing Partners Husqvarna Ranger Boats Abraham Baldwin Ag College IMC Salt Co. Rhone Poulenc Ag Company Aero Publishing Institute of Food Technologists Rilchie Industries, Inc. AGCO Instructional Materials Lab—University of Missouri Rose Acre Farms. Inc. AgEd Network Instructional Materials Service—Texas A&M University Schradc Cutlery Agribusiness Career and Leadership Academy Interstate Publishers, Inc. Sigma Alpha Sorority Agricultural Consortium of Texas Iowa FFA Foundation, Inc. Silver State International Rodeo. Inc. Agricultural Resources & Communications Iowa State University College of Agriculture Snap On Tools Agricultural Sciences & Natural Resources Iowa Western Livestock Judging Contest Society of American Florists Consortium of Nebraska Jefferson Technical College Society of American Foresters AgriSoIutions John Deere Sooner Trailer AgroVenture John Deere Credit Southern Arkansas University Agroiours Inc. Johnson & Wales University Southern Heritage Fundraising AlChem Industries Justin Boot Company Southern Illinois University at Carbondale Alexandria Technical College Kansas State University Southern Kentucky Vacations, Inc. Alpha Gamma Rho Fraternity Kentucky Department of Agriculture Southern States Cooperative American Angus Association Kentucky Department of Travel Southwest Missouri Stale University - Collegiate FFA American Association for Vocational Kentucky Down Under Spec Cast Instructional Materials (AAVIM) Kentucky Farm Bureau Insurance Companies Starlight Visitors Association American Dairy Goat Association Kentucky Soybean Association Stone Manufacturing & Supply Company American Farm Bureau Federation Kentucky State University Stuppy Greenhouse Manufacturing Company American International Charolais Association Kentucky Thoroughbred Association Sullivan Colleges System American Morgan Horse Institute, Inc. Kentucky Turf Grass Council SUNY Cobleskill American National Cattlewomen, Inc. Kentucky Wood Products Superior Growers Supply American Paint Horse Association Kirkwood Community College TDDD Professional Training Center American Quarter Horse Association Kosair Charities The American Phytopathological Society American Salers Association Kroger The Campbell Group American Shorthorn Association L. C. Fund Raising. Inc. The Davey Tree Expert Company .American Simmental Association LA-CO Industries The ErtI Company American Veterinary Medical Association Lake City Community College The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company Animal Industry Foundation Lake Land Community College The Humane Society of ihe United States Applied Technologies Langdon Barber Groves, Inc. The Ohio State University Aquacenter, Inc. Lester Building The University of Arizona Aquascape Design, Inc. Lettering Manufacturing Three Hills PRCA Rodeo, Inc. Aquatic Eco Systems Lexington Convention & Visitors Bureau Top Cut Showpig Sires Archer Daniels Midland Co. Lincoln Electric Company Tractor Supply Company Aubum University Louisiana State University TruGreen LandCare B & H Insurance Louisville Lincoln Tourism Region Tulsa Welding School Balanced Living Company Maple Grove Distributing. Inc. Tyson Foods, Inc. Bayer Corporation, Agricultural Division Maple Leaf Farms U.S. Air Force Recruiting Bekaert Wire Mason County Fiscal Court U.S. Army Recruiting Command Belgium Blue Breeders. Inc. Michelin Agricultural Tires U.S. Custom Harvesters. Inc. Black Hawk College Michigan State University U.S. Department of Education OVAE Brick Graphics by Gartex, Inc. Middlesborough/Pineville/Bell County Tourism Commission U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Briggs & Stratton Corporation Miller Electric Mfg. Co. U.S. Marine Corps Buck Knives, Inc. Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences (MANRRS) U.S. Navy Recruiting Command Burley Tobacco Growers Mississippi State University United Parcel Service (U.P.S.)

Carhartt. Inc. Missouri Valley College University of Alaska Fairbanks - SALRM Carolina Biological Supply Company Modesto Junior College University of Arkansas CARQUEST Corporation Monsanto Company University of Arkansas Dept. of Crop, Soil & Environmental Sciences CaselH MoorMan's, Inc. Caterpillar Morehead State University

Caterpillar - Think Big Murray State University Cave City Tourist & Convention Center NAPA Auto Parts CENEX Harvest States-Land O'Lakes Nashville Auto-Diesel College Ceres International Women's Fraternity National AgrAbility Program show Chevrolet Motor Division National Agricultural Aviation Association Chevron National Alliance of Independent Crop Consultants Chicago Mercantile Exchange National Antique Tractor Pullers Association

Christian Kropf. Inc. National Association of Agricultural Educators (NAAE) University of California - Davis Clemson University National Association of Farm Broadcasters University of Delaware College of Agriculture & Natural Resources Colorado State University National Bison Association University of Florida Communicating for Agriculture Exchange Program National Cattlemen's Beef Association University of Georgia

Cornell University National Council for Agricultural Education University of Illinois Crosman Airguns National Council of Farmer Cooperatives University of Kentucky Crosswind Llamas National FFA Agn-Entrepreneurship Finalists University of Kentucky Distance Learning Programs

DATA MATCH. Inc. National FFA Agricultural Youth Safety Education University of Minnesota—St. Paul Delaware State University National FFA Agriscience Fair University of Missouri —Columbia Delmar Publishers. Inc. National FFA Agriscience Student Award Program Display University of Puerto Rico—Mayaguez Campus DeWALT Power Tools National FFA Alumni Association University of Wisconsin—Madison Direct Ag, Com National FFA Programs and Activities (Partners) University of Wisconsin - Platteville Diversified Fund Raisers; Bob's Fund Raising National FFA Programs and Activities (Student) University of Wisconsin - River Falls Dodge National FFA Programs and Activities (Teachers) University of Wyoming Dow AgroSciences National High School Rodeo Association USDA ARS Grain Marketing and Production Research Center DTN (Data Transmission Network) National Livestock Ethics Council USDA ARS - National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research Dundee Citrus Growers Association National Pork Producers Council USDA Cooperative State Research. Education and Extension Service DuPont National Rifle Association of America USDA Economic Research Service Eastern Kentucky University National Shooting Sports Foundation USDA Farm Service Agency Environmental Care, Inc. National Wild Turkey Federation USDA Foreign Agricultural Service EnviroQuip Nationwide USDA Forest Service Equipment Manufacturers Institute New Holland Credit Corporation USDA Marketing and Regulatory Programs Facilitating Coordination in Agricultural Education North American Limousin Foundation USDA National Agricultural Library FCAE North Carolina State University USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service /CENSUS Farm Works Software Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College USDA National Animal Disease Center farmbid.com Northwest Missouri State University USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service Farmers for Christ, International Northwestern College USDA Office of Inspector General FarmHouse Fraternity Northwestern Ohio Tractor Pullers USDA Risk Management Agency Farmland Industries Ohio Agricultural Technical Institute USDA Rural Development FanmPage.com Ohio Com Marketing Program Utah Slate University Famham Dudgeon Civic Center & Frankfort Tourism Ohio Curriculum Materials Service Vincennes University & Convention Commission Ohio Extension Communication & Technology Virginia Tech. College of Agriculture & Agricultural Education Fasti me Publications Ohio Soybean Council Vita- Key Supplements Fellowship of Christian Farmers International Oklahoma Curriculum & Instructional Materials Center Walt Disney World Co. Firestone Agricultural Tire Company Oklahoma Panhandle State University Ward's Natural Science Florida Fruit Association. Inc. Oklahoma State University Washington State University

Food Distributors International Oklahoma Steel and Wire Welsh Products, Inc.

Food Marketing Institute Oregon Slate University Western Illinois University Ford Motor Company Oregon Trail Jerky Western Kentucky University GBC Customized Calendars Oscar Mayer Foods Winchester Ammunition-Olin Corporation Georgia Boot/Durango Bool Papa John's International Inc. WIX Fillers Products Division of Dana Corporation Golf Course Superintendents Association of America Pennsylvania State University Woman's Christian Temperance Union H & S Produce Pennzoil Quaker State Wrangler Hawkeye Community College Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Inc. Zeecraft Tech. Hendncksen Care of Tires Presto Products Company Highwired.Nei "Living to serve" takes on a whole new From stuffing envelopes to 1PHI s meaning for students working on the courtesy moving boxes | corps. Health and safety concerns, podium to distributing

' *»M* FFA Today W*i 'fj removal and guest escorts - you name it and * g~\ newspapers, ™,Z?^% courtesy corps is there. These volunteers help courtesy corps to make national convention a smooth- members made the convention running show. The pay to these outstanding a success by individuals was nothing more than the sincere attending to the gratitude and thanks from the many members details. and guests they helped serve. National convention would not be the same without their help. mmsYM m m

Sponsored by Kosair Children's Hospital and Norton 1 Healthcare

Alabama: Billingsley, Eden Dubois. Norwell. Prairie North Dakota: Hillsboro, Krum, Lewisville, Lubbock- Career Tech, Isabella, Leroy, Heights, Scottsburg, South Killdeer, Powers Lake, Wm. Cooper, Madisonville, Odenville, Slocomb. West Ripley, Triton Central, A. BroylesNebraska: Mansfield, Marcus. End, Wetumpka Western Boone Freeman, Hartington, McKinney. Clear Brook, Arkansas: DeValls Bluff. Kansas: Johnson County Newman Grove, Waverly Clear Lake, Columbus, Glen Rose, Oark Kentucky: Apollo, Barren New Hampshire: Seacoast Crandall, Crowley, Cypress Arizona: Mesa. Mesquite, County, Boone County, School of Technology, Creek, DeSoto, Deweyville, Millenium, Parker Bracken County. Christian WinnisquamOhio: Benjamin Franklin, Glen Rose, California: Pal IB rook, La County, Edmonson County, Logan, Buckeye Valley, Four Greenville, Groesbeck, Sierra, Poway Fleming County, Heath. County, Pickaway-Ross JVS, Harrold, Hartley, Honey Connecticut: Northwestern Lincoln County, Nelson Ross, St. Henry, Talawanda, Grove, Huffman, Regional County, Spencer County, Vantage, Warren Humble, Huntsville, Idalou, Florida: Armwood, Taylor County, Walton- Oklahoma: Aline-Cleo, Elk Iola, Iowa Park,

Auburndale Sr., Bunnell Sr.. Verona, Washington County, City, Fort Gibson, Grandfield, Killeen/Ellison, Kirbyville,

Deland Sr., Durant, Lake Webster County, Western Jenks, Reydon, Sapulpa, Memphis, Mexia, Hills, Region. Malone, Miami Sr., Wolfe County Sentinel, Silo Miami, Morton, Needville,

New Smyrna Beach Sr., North Louisiana: Mt. Hermon Oregon: Perrydale New Caney, Normangee,

Michigan: New Lothrop Pennsylvania: Cumberland Northwest, Justin, Palestine , Marion Sr., Northview ,

Redland Middle, Taylor Sr., Minnesota: Sibley County Valley, West Snyder Pasadena, Pilot Point, Piano

Umatilla, Williston Sr. East Rhode Island: Narragansett, East, Princeton, Quanah, Iowa: Anamosa, Dunkerton, Missouri: Aurora, North Scituate Rochelle, Rotan, Sam Fox Valley, Iowa Falls-Alden. Bloomfield. Chamois South Dakota: Alcester- Rayburn, San Marcos. Sanger

Iowa State University, Keota, Morrison, Couch, Gallatin R- Hudson, Harrisburg, McCook , Sealy, Snyder, Spring V, Branch, Stamford, The Laurens - Marathon, Grundy County, Hermann, Central Maquoketa, North Fayette, Higginsville, Kansas City, Tennessee: Lincoln County, Woodlands-McCullough, Tom Parma Koshkonong, Lamar, Linn McNairy Central Bean, Troy, Weatherford, Illinois: Georgetown-Ridge County R-I, Linn, Malta Bend Texas: A&M Consolidated, Weimar, Willis, Wilson Farm, Hillsboro, Liberty, R-V, Marion County, Nevada, Aledo, Anderson, Athens, Virginia: Amelia County Tri-Point. Windsor Norborne, Odessa, Schuyler Banquete, Bellaire, HS, Dinwiddie R-l, Tipton, Union, Walnut Blackwell, Bland, Bowie Wisconsin: Alma Center- Indiana: Adams Central, , Lodi, Carroll, Clinton Prairie. Grove, Wheatland Bryan, Caney Creek, Canton, Lincoln, Elk Mound, Crothersville, Eastbrook, North Carolina: Crest, Canutillo, Cedar Hill, Cedar New Glarus, Oconto Falls, Indian Creek, LakeLand, Southern Nash Park, Channelview, Chico, Pulaski, Sauk Prairie, North Newton, Northeast Whitehall business

The Kentucky Fair and Exposition Center was filled with delegates from each state as they worked on pending issues concerning the FFA. The group began sessions two days before convention actually began. They met for hours to draft proposals to be considered by the National FFA Organization board of directors.

Delegates proudly represented

their state associations during business meetings. Parliamentary

procedure skills were put to work and business was conducted.

The committee on Agricultural Education Trends recommended an alliance between agricultural education and industries to create an understanding by the general public. The Career Success Activities committee recommended the American FFA Degree contain a category for community service. The Membership, Recruitment and Participation committee recommended a national advertising campaign using billboards, the Internet and commercials.

At the close of business

Saturday, delegates left Freedom Hall with a sense of accomplishment and purpose, knowing they helped make a difference in the future of FFA.

Patriotism prevailed at the national FFA convention, students pledged their allegiance to the flag and county at the start of each session. official

official delegates

PENNSYLVANIA: Amy Sakers. Milton Hershey ALASKA: Matthew Wilson. Megan McReynolds, Association; Kari Zevenbergen, Sibley Ocheyedan; MAINE: Paul Durepo II, Limestone: Jody Diamond; Amy Kenley. Palmer Desiree Mendonca, Gustine: Douglas Tim Hibma. Sibley Ocheyedan: Bryan Roope, Presque Isle ALABAMA: Lisa Jividen. Paasch. Grass Valley / Bear River; Humphreys. River Forks MICHIGAN: Ryan Sweeney. Mason; Mark Geraldine: Joshua Dozier, Marbury; Nancy Paasch. Grass Valley / Bear IDAHO: Lance Zollinger, Declo; Daniels, Standish-Sterling; Katie McCune. St. Josh Johnson. Jacksonville; Jared River; Ashley Parker, Elk Grove; Dwight Little. Sugar Salem; Krystle Louis; Elizabeth Smego. Cassopolis; Liz Mitchell. Daleville; Cassidy Ellison. Samantha Pepiot. Crescent City - Del Wengreen, Castleford; Greg Chaney, Confer. Perry-Morrice Robertsdale; Grace Smith. Billingsby; Norte; Deanna Richmond. Quartz Hill; Kuna; Mishele Mittleider, Meridian MINNESTOA: Richard Prestegard. Blue Alisha Turnbull. Lexington; Andrea Tracy Schohr, Gridley; Amber ILLINOIS: Betsy Bakken, Lincoln; Earth Area; Hector Matthys. Lakeview; Hill, W.S. Neal; Brooke Killen. Simmons, Crescent City - Del Norte; Beth Wilson, Olney; Robin Niehaus, Tammy Gilland. Cedar Mountain; Trista Lexington; Lybbi Stiefel. White Marcelo Soares. Lemoore; Jessica Hillsboro; Sean Arians. Metamora; Colbenson. Rushford/Peterson; Mandy Plains; Abby Dewberry. Lineville: Thomas. Hanford; Michelle Vieira, Sara Spinazola. Serena; Ted Ufkes, Kidrowski. Willmar; Justin Lessman. Tracy; Jeanie Edwards. Wetumpka; Tulare Union: Valarie Walker, Grass Southeastern; Danny Miller. Mark Jewell. Long Prairie Grey Eagle; Kellie Tremayne Wilson. Billingsley; Valley-Nevada Union; Trevor Weaver, Farmington; Lindsay Donovan, Ladlie, Albert Lea: Sarah Clemenson, Jennifer Edwards. Gaston Elk Grove; Dane White. Association Clinton: Hillary Lawler. Mulberry; Zumbrota Mazeppa ARKANSAS: Ryan Maloch, COLORADO: Karrie Blake. New Rene Mettler, Highland; Emily Kessler. MISSOURI: Josha Worthington. Dadeville; Emerson: Kristyn Woodrow, Cabot; Raymer; Thad Robertson. Yuma: B.J. Olney; Jeremy Putnam, Paxton- Shasta Rentfrow. Senca; Kristen Curtis. Leah Willeford. DeValls Bluff; Jones. McClave: Justin Hoozes, New Buckley Loda; Landon Lingle, Maysville; Abby Smith, Chillicothe: Colleen Samantha Goss. Camden Fairview; Raymer; Heather Hays, Burlington Dongola; Kelly Tilsey, Franklin Center Griswold, North Shelby; Jesse Heimer. Sherry Baum, Bismarck: Kevin Smith, CONNECTICUT: Stacey Stearns, INDIANA: Scott Priebe. Southmont: Palmyra; Nancy Hildebrand. Lakeland; Zach Gravette; Renee Durham. Prairie Storrs; Lee McMillan, Mattabeset; Stephanie Warner, Whitko; Matt Crews. Slater; Brandon Uchtman. Fordland; Green; Jeff Pratt, Melbourne; Ryan Colgan, Lebanon Regional; Morris, Clinton Central; Joey Marten. David Newman. Couch: Gary Banderman. Shannon Tubbs, Weiner: Kristen Hilary Sepe, Woodbury Lewis Cass; Lillian Wafford. Star Union; Daniel Mothershead. Kelley-Benton; Cooper, Valley Springs: Rebecca DELAWARE: Michael Leventry, Academy; Renell Calloway. New Melissa Emmons, Rivers; Doug Kueker. Sweet Wherry. Fairview; Brandy Schall, Marian Handlin. Middletown; Miami; Katie Robertson, Southwestern Springs Glen Rose; Misty Smith, Decatur Alexandria Tsipouras. Middletown; at Shelby; Megan McMichael. MISSISSIPPI: Brandon Davis. Greene ARIZONA: Brandon Leister, Steve Breeding, Woodbridge Scottsburg; Jared Nussbaum, Adams County; Joseph McCollum, Northeast Jones; Buckeye; Raney Grissom, Kofa: FLORIDA: William Dukes. Lake Central Amanda Hent/. South Panola; Kristen Stephanie Weuert. Peoria; Crystal Butler; Jarett Tyus. Sneads; Kyle Shaw. KANSAS: Beth Ludlum.Uniontown; Cockrell. Mize; Heather Holley. Nettleton; Petersen, Mogollon; Candice Murphy, Lafayette Sr.; Jimmy LeFils, Pine Sarah Geiger. Troy; Adam Lang, Patrick Black. Weir Chandler Ridge; Luke Fountain, Lake Region; Buhler; James Covey, Wellington; MONTANA: Christie Flechsenhar, Cascade; CALIFORNIA: Kevin Mathy. Austin Bryant, Hardee County Sr.; Courtney Everett. Clay Center; Jodi Ryan Bailey. Shields Valley; Jarod Linne', Fullerton; Angela Browning, Grass Diana Alamo, Miami Sr; Amanda Mason, Chapman Flathead; Austin Knudsen. Culbertson Valley / Bear River; Jessica Allen, Smith, Pine Ridge; Abby Sameck, KENTUCKY: Brandon Reed, LaRue: NORTH CAROLINA: Nicholas Quartz Hill; Paul Amador, Modesto; Interlachen Sr; Renee Melton. Dade Sara Williamson, Woodford; Joe Armendariz. West Carteret; Tara Runion, Matt ARcher, Association; Melisa City Sr; Lindsay Land. Suwannee Sr; Thomas. North Hopkins: Jennifer South Rowan; Mark Elliott, Northside; Devon Augusto. Leamoore; Krystal Bailey, Phillips Kox, Miami Sr. O'Banion. Taylor; Jeffrey Rudy, Lewis. Amanda Williams. Christian Wilson. Fallbrook; Debi Batini. Association; GEORGIA: Gregory Ellis. Murray; Ballard Memorial; Taylor Coots. Co.; Lauren Buslinger. Bartlett Yancey; Christina Lucas Browning, Grass Valley / Bear Eustace Griffin, Brantley; Ben Spencer; Lindsay Johnson, Logan Cox, Clayton; Robert Ellis, Harnett Central; River; Lindsey Bugbee. Association; Kennedy. Tattnall Co.; Jody Brandley Carter, Knox Central; Tommy Logsdon, McLean: Brian Brammell. Jennifer Gasque. St. Pauls; Bradley Kidd. Zachary Bush, Grass Valley / Nevada Underwodd. E.C.I. ; Emily Howard, Chatham Central: Allison Jo McCabe. South Union; Erin Cardoza, Fresno-Central; Morgan Co.; Amanda Padgett. Franklin East Carter; Jeremy Cox, Morgan Co.; Rowan; Jessica Skinner. South Rowan April Chaney. Kerman; Andrew Co.: Joanna Griffin. Berrien; Claudea Julie P'Pool, Trigg Co. NORTH DAKOTA: Bryan Kenner. Copen, Winterhaven-San Pasqual; Paul. Coffee Co.; Meghan Davis, LOUISIANA: Greta Gautreaux, Maddock: Aaron Anderson. Rugby: Dave Axt, Jordan Cordeiro, Hanford; Victoria Jackson Co.; Erin East, Miller Co.; Central Lafourche; Keith Gates, McClusky; Dean Knell. Hazen; Jason Oehlke. Costa, Tulare Union; Molly Fagundes. Craig Pace. Effingham Co.; Brandi Lakeview; Heather Pierson. St. Amant; Wahpcton; Shanna Gratton. Northwood Atwater; Eric Finley, La Habra; Pritchett, Cass High; Carl Stalvey. Connie Reeves. Hathaway; KC Toups, NEBRASKA: Katie Sissel. Shickley; Craig Benjamin Fisher. Fresno-Central; Berrien Co.; Sanantonio Taylor, Tift; Thibodaux; Allison Bruchbaus. Elton; Fix, Norris; Annthie Kramer. Sutton; Jill Mandy Foreman. Association; Emily Tyson, Portal High Kevin Moreau. Northwest; Tim Hall. Kruger, Logan View; Erin Pocssnecher. West Michelle Forsythe. Mariposa; Neil HAWAII: MaikoYajima, Grant; Anna Dearmon, Winnfield; Holt; Paul Timm, Lyons-Decauter Gibson, Lucerne Valley; Melissa Lahainaluna; Leina'ala Posey, Pahoa Nikki Roach, Ruston; Amber Burch; NEW HAMPSHIRE: Linnae Selinga. Gomes. Association; Scott Grumbles, IOWA: Nickolas McKenna. Vinton; Mt. Hermon Pinkerton; Amy Fogarty. Winnisquam; Cherie Association; Tracy Haas, Association; Ryan Foor, Wapello; Debbie Kleitsch, MASSACHUSETTS: Aaron Caswell. Redmond. Dover Tim Hammerich, Santa rosa-EIsie Wapsie Valley; Hilary Johnson, Linn- Bristol; Joseph Lagasse, Smith: Corrine NEW JERSEY: Nichole Steward. Norther Allen; Briana Jessen, Fresno-Central; Mar; Seth Harrison, Anita; Brad Blum, Essex Burlington; Keith Wassail. Northern Julie Kondoff, Morgan Hill-Live Oak: Hammes, Wilton; Amber Wiebbecke, MARYLAND: Krista Lee Hartley. Burlington; Dawn Kaufman. Oakcrest; Laura Alissa Lovett, Eureka; St. Ansgar; Maria Medici, Chariton; Flintstone: Matt Koerner, Harford - Central Tech; Shaun Shriner. Catoctin Cooper. HPT NEW MEXICO: Azori Dodd. Melrose; Leslie Utton, Aztec; Tomee Lightfoot. Animas; Shad Kyner, Los Lunas; Heath Rutherford. Clovis TENNESSEE: Adam Comer, Riverside: Julie Pedigo. Coffee; Stphanie Johnson. Stephanie Solorio, Glen Gaugh, Shannon Reburn. Sara Rolen. Mall Barnes. Kim

Newsom, Craig Phillips. Holli Turner. Jill Bolton, TEXAS: Adam Byrd. Union Grove. Daniel Clayton, Bowie; Dusty Moore. Boy's Ranch: Ty Hamm. John Slaughter. Caney Creek; Shane Shockley, Breckenndge; Will Dickson, Lometa; Kimberly Wright, Penelope; Erin Schroeder. Madisonville: Heather Lawhon, Banquete: Benn Pigg, Valley; Carmen Terry, White Deer; Karen Wilhelm. Nazareth: Josh Jordan. Shallowater; Clay Cade. Rotan; Loren Wolf. Wahoma; Jacob West. Sonora; Jason NEVADA: Chad Venters. Ruby Mountain; McClure, Caney Creek; Matthew Wagener. Joseph Frey. Churchill County; Jessica Humble; Tracy Tomascik. Buckholts: Darrell Goicoechea, Ruby Mountain Bowers. Tiehaven; James McKendree. NEW YORK: Ann Beckerink, Clymer; Pearland; Wes Cooper, Olney; Kaelly Blay. Juleah Tolosky, Northern Adirondeck; Matt Bell, David Dixou. Stephanville; Nicole Koerner, Letchworth; Mark Jonathan Mallard. Krum; Brad Mabry. Henerson, Greenville; Candice Stock, South Weatherford; Joe Brhlick. Sherman; Carley Jefferson Wood, Cedar Hill; Damon Young, Mineola; OHIO: Matt Smith, Benjamin Logan; Daniel Kessler. Linder-Kildare; Jessica Heath Eisele.Talawanda; Doug Shannon, Foster, Big Sandy; Matthew Kempen. Hillsboro; Jason Sharp. Sentinel; Andy Somerset; Alyson Lyles. Devine; Marcy Vance. Hillsobor; Jesse Buxton, River Melton. Lampasas; Audrey Smith, Elgin; View; Adam Bates. Pymatuning Valley; Dustin Clark. Waxahachie: Julie Wright. Greg Dague, Northwestern; Laura Dengler, Midlothian: Phillip Smith. Brownsboro: Edgewood; Elaine McConnell, Wellington; Lyndsey Schneider. Hillsboro; Dustin Janice Bailey. Alexander; Heather Wells. Kinder. Livingston; Dustin Pearson, Hardin Northern; Stephanie Shert/er, Huntsville; Jayson Hill, Cleveland: Jess Bowling Green; Sue Hoop. Buckeye Trail Widener, Colmesneil; Reagan Pillack, Agua OKLAHOMA: Mel Ray Albright, Balko; Duke; Amanda Thompson. Mission: Jeff Jackie Pembrook, Fairview; A.J. Butler, Petter, Pleasanton; Paul Harding, Lyford: Reydon; Justin Pratt, Davis; Jared Robison, Greg Coats, Kilgore Ringwood; Robyn Sites, Mt. View-Gotebo; UTAH: Braden Hancock. Dixie; Melissa David Turner, Eugaula; Brian Leedy, Swenson. Payson: Wyatt Gardiner. Morgan; Wilburton; Chas Robbins, Spiro; Trevor Mandy Bushman. Bingham; Laurel Evans. Wedman, Yukon; Terrell Buck, Eugaula; Weber Bambi Sidewell, Timberlake; Jennifer VIRGINIA: Leslie Funkhouser. Strasburg; Hayes, Depew; Travis Bradshaw, Sterling; Beth Stover. Turner Ashby; Scott Russell. Christopher Kidd, Waurika; Rachel Carroll Co.: Jason Carpenter. Culpeper: Johnson, Elmore City; Matt Adair, Amanda Avery. Dinwiddie; Matthew Hickey, Waynoka; Amber Ramsey. Howe; Kendra Buffalo Gap; Bart Kite. Page Co.; Bridget Kelton, Muldrow; Becky Luke, Calera Sine, Central; Luke Turner. Louisa; Ben OREGON: Audrey Stockhoff, Union; Grove, Turner Ashby Marc Smith, Woodbum; Sarah Irwin. VIRGIN ISLANDS: Sue Matty, St. Croix Junction City; Nikki Jaeger. Henley; Jarid Educational Complex: Kimesha Michael, St. Burley, Knappa Croix Central High School Agrisience PENNSYLVANIA: Elio Chiarelli. Jr.. VERMONT: Kristin Quesnel. Middlebury: Cumberland Valley; Bart Gill, Newport; Sidney Vander Wey, Vergenne Adam Longenecker, Central Grove; Phillip WASHINGTON: Abbie Kammerzell. Frankford Jr.. Bermudian; Larissa Baney. Colfax; Joe Brown. Fernoale: Atiya Palmer. Selinsgrove; Maria Trego. West Snyder; Medical Lake; Emily Hyland, Cascade: Sarrah Biddle. Williamsburg Delegates diligently take notes during a business session and Amanda McKinley. Waitsburg: Desire'e PUERTO RICO: Javier Moreno. Antonia brainstorm ways to improve the FFA experience for thousands Cordas. Sumner; Jessica Mackin. Rochester: Serrano. Johnathan Tossas, Antonia to Matthew Sweezea, Zillah; Morgan Irwin. of members. Specialized committees were formed debate Serrano. Noel Vargas, Laura Mercado, Dr. Enunclaw serious matters and report back to the general session. Jose Padin WISCONSIN: Tolea Kamm, New RHODE ISLAND: Adam Buxton, Richmond: Trish Hieronimczak. Pulaski: Scituate; Christal Etchells, Scituate Cindy Dipprey, Turtle Lake; Sara SOUTH CAROLINA: Carrie Erin West, Zimmerman, Eau Claire Memorial: Katie Wagener-Salley; Heather King. Belton- Lee, Holmen: Jennifer Smith, Argyle; Honea Path; Lori Beth Rhodes. Manning; Tracy Smithback. Cambridge: Julie Holler. Myra Anne Walters. Pendleton; Erin Lodi; Jake Peissig. Colby: Jim Melby. Holliday. Lexington ATC; Jaime Marie Waupaca; Matthew Reinders. Johnson Rivers, McBee Creek; Jed Bauer. Spencer: Cortney Peissig. SOUTH DAKOTA: Tanse Herrmann. Wisconsin Colby; Beth Planz, Waupaca. Chamberlin; Katie Turner. Alcester-Hudson; Rebecca Kyles. Green Bay Preble Roxanne Wagner, Tulare; Katy Home, WEST VIRGINIA: Tyrell Childers, St. Rapid City; Bobbie Jo Tomac. Rapid City Marys; Jeremy Fletcher. Tyler; Benjamin Collier. Philippi; Josh Holmes. Belmont: Christy Morrison. Ravenswasu official WYOMING: Jeremy Burkett. Burns: Jessica Clark, Burns: Michelle Vigil. Riversude: Stacy Child. Cheyenne You have mail! FFA members were able to send electronic postcards across the country using computer stations. Computer laboratories were sponsored by USAccessBank.A Division of The Central Bank USA, Inc. and DoughNet as a special project of the National FFA Foundation. committee reports agricultural Respectfully Submitted: education trends Tolea Kamm, WI (Chair) We recommend: Ryan Maloch, AR (Vice Chair) Alliance Development Braden Hancock, UT *1. Develop media alliances allowing agricultural education and FFA to be seen, heard and read by the Dave Axt, ND general public. Ben Pigg, TX 2. Develop promotional pieces to be distributed to school administrators and faculty, Trista Colbenson, MN parents and other interested parties to illustrate the benefits of agricultural education and FFA. Craig Fix, NE 3. Develop materials for advisors and state officers addressing the do's and don'ts of developing and continuing alliance support. Heather Pierson, LA 4. Establish in FFA New Horizons and the FFA web site an alliance recognition page with references to Amanda Williams, NC their support. Jeffrey Rudy, KY 5. Build alliances with federal officials, including the U.S. President, to build recognition and support for Jessica Goicoechea, NV agricultural education and FFA. 6. Create a directory of state representatives from national sponsors. Luke Browning, CA Tanse Herrmann, SD Technologies and Teaching Strategies Keith Wassal, NJ *1. Create a partnership with industry sponsorship to provide every agriculture program with computer access Kevin Mathy, CA (allowing students to experience new technologies such as e-mail, world wide web and power point). Abby Smith, MO 2. Develop a national program to educate teachers on the importance and benefits of teaching students about the new technologies available in agriculture. Desiree Cordas, WA 3. Create a partnership with National FFA and the agriculture industry to develop a curriculum for an Jared Robison, OK advancement in agriculture technology class for students. Nicole Koerner, NY 4. Establish a system of updates on new technology to be used by educators to teach students Sara Zimmerman, WI (i.e., CD-ROM, video, newsletters). Jarid Burley, OR Teacher Development Emily Howard, GA *1 . That the FFA New Horizons create a section for star agriculture teachers in conjunction with the star student Erin Schroeder, TX section to give recognition to agricultural educators. Jesse Buxton, OH 2. That the National FFA Organization develop a "sister school" program, allowing for communication and Jason Carpenter, VA interaction between chapters and advisors nationwide. Bates, 3. That the National FFA Organization update statistics and information about job opportunities available to Adam OH agricultural education instructors in each state, by contact of all state associations. Bart Gill, PA 4. Develop an interstate agriculture student exchange program following the same structure as the international Justin Pratt, OK FFA exchange program. Christian Wilson, NE 5. Establish a nationally recognized agriculture program such as "Gold Emblem Chapters" as models for other Wright, chapters in that state. Kimberly TX 6. Explore the possibility for developing materials for state and local use to improve new teachers and new Will Dickison, TX teaching techniques. Stephanie Solorio, TN 7. Improve promotion of new teacher workshop to state staff and teacher educators. Debi Batini, CA Agricultural Literacy Aaron Caswell, MA * Azori Dodd, NM 1 . That the FFA New Horizons run a permanent article featuring information on one or two hot agricultural topics with the FFA web site providing extra information on them. Josh Dozier, AL 2. That task force set to explore that agricultural aspects can be incorporated into other disciplines. a be up ways Krystal Bailey, CA 3. That the National FFA Organization develop a packet consisting of ideas state associations use at large public- Adam Lang, KS events (ie: State Fairs and convention) to promote agricultural literacy, and the resources to be utilized at such functions. Justin Hoozee, CO 4. That the agricultural issue forum be promoted more often to encourage participation; and the Food For Robin Niehaus, IL America Program be expanded to include grades 6-8, 9-12 and adults. Hilary Johnson, IA 5. That the National FFA Organization use the media to promote agricultural awareness (for example, TV Kyle Shaw, FL commercials and world wide web). 6. That the FFA New Horizons be sent to major supporters and administrators. Jennifer O'Banion, KY Matt Morris, IN A

chapter activities

We recommend:

Community Development *1 . Community development workshops for state offieers, advisors and staff. Provide an instructional book. with a motivational video and complimenting CD-ROM. Utilize these resources to promote community development within all aspects of the National FFA, specifically all local chapters. Respectfully submitted: 2. Providing awards for chapters demonstrating excellence in any area of community development. 3. Seeking financial support from the Council, the National FFA Foundation, and any other appropriate Brandon Reed, KY (Chair) organizations for these initiatives. Amy Kenley, AK (Vice Chair) Chapter Awards Krista Hartley, MD * 1 . Offer grants to national winners in all three areas of the Program of Activities in the amount of $3,000 Joe Brown, WA to be used at their discretion in addition to current awards. Carrie West, SC 2. Assist with the cost for national finalists coming to national convention interviews. 3. Make information more accessible by: Matt Smith, OH A. Providing a web link that has an obtainable application, instructions, examples and e-mail addresses Jackie Pembrook, OK of contact persons. Ann Beckerik, NY B. Featuring the winners in FFA New Horizons along with information about the award. Trish Hieronimack, WS 2. Provide a teacher packet with information and example for current teachers and teacher educators. 3. Provide workshops: Sherry Baum, AR A. At national convention for advisors and/or members. Mariah Handlin, DE B. At state conventions, put on by the top chapters in the state. LeinaaTa Posey, HI Carnen Terry, TX Middle School FFA Opportunities

*1 . The development of career development events specifically tailored to meet curriculum needs of middle Lorin Wolf, TX school FFA members, separate from ninth to twelfth grade contests, emphasizing middle school learning Amanda Padgett, GA principles. Suggestions include: Zach Bush, CA - - speaking events: opening/closing ceremony contest Dean Knell, ND - - exploratory career developments (broad based) 2. of middle school FFA chapters in our organization through: JoshHolmes, WV Promotion - - FFA New Horizons Magazine Adam Longenecker, PA - - UPDATE April Chaney, CA - - FFA Advisors Making a Difference Immy LeFils, FL - - Other publications 3. Create a link on the National FFA Organization homepage that features middle school involvement Lauren Buslinger, NC and opportunities. Karen Wilhelm, TX 4. Continue and improve middle school involvement at the national convention through workshops, Glen Gaugh, TN luncheons, etc. Katie Lee, WI 5. Develop and distribute a teachers' packet to inform teachers of middle school FFA opportunities and to share best practices. Seth Harrison, I 6. Include middle school training in a session of BLAST Off that would include communication and Connie Reeves, LA presentation techniques appropriate for middle school members. Andrew Copen, CA 7. Continue to support and improve the EDGE conference. Landon L. Lingle, IL 8. Provide a well-publicized national contact person who is responsible for the promotion, improvement, Mandy Kidrowski, MN and implementation of middle school programs. Clay Cade, TX Agricultural Literacy Lindsey Bugbee, CA * 1 . Agricultural Literacy Video Applications Nancy Hildebrand, MS A. Provide recognition of the top four agricultural literacy programs at the chapter level (chapter would Devon Lewis, NC apply with a video application). B. Application will be a 20-minute video that explains the program and the role of the chapter in Josh Johnson, AL informing the public about agricultural literacy. Have national recognition videos played during the Knox Phillips, FL four days of convention (e.g., the final four with one chapter recognized per day). Sarah Edith Irwin, OR C. This video can be used in conjunction with PALS, Food for America, Ag in the Classroom, etc. Ben Kennedy, GA D. These applications can be judged on criteria such as creativity and presentation: however, the focus is not on an award, but to showcase chapters. Samantha Goss, AL 2. Agricultural Literacy Improvements for FFA New Horizons Erin Cardoza, CA A. Showcase chapters that promote agricultural literacy. Heather Hays, CO B. Promote FFA opportunities and how they relate to agriculture careers (e.g., FFA livestock-judging Joey Martin, IN contests help prepare for careers such as veterinary medicine, food science, production, etc.). C. Classified or wanted ads that give information on agriculture careers and their salaries, education, James Covey, KS and benefits. Jesse Heimer, MO D. Marginal notes or page borders giving quick FFA and/or agriculture facts. Robyn Sites, OK 3. Multi-media Josh Jordan, TX A. Develop four agriculture literacy CD-ROM's at four levels elementary, junior high, high school and adult. Amanda Avery, VA B. Knowledge be provided for younger students through interactive activities. C. Knowledge be provided for higher level students through interactive quizzes. D. Target new agriculture educators and schools without agriculture education programs. E. Quizzes be available on the FFA Homepage or FFA New Horizons. committee reports career success activities

We Recommend:

American FFA Degree: * 1 . The American FFA Degree contain a category for community service, with a minimum service time determined by the National FFA Organization. 2. Do not make the FFA Degree into two separate applications. 3. The National FFA Organization should continue to look into the future of inflation and overall economic conditions as they relate to the American FFA Degree application.

Career Development Events:

*1. There should be a brief description of all Career Development Events in the New Horizons magazine and on the Internet. 2. To have tractor driving as a national contest. 3. Recognize co-op programs at the national level.

Proficiency Award: *1 . We agree with the decisions made by the Proficiency Task Force. 2. No other proficiency areas should be changed. SAE:

* 1 . Incorporate a grant/loan system, funded by corporate sponsors to provide students with a foundation for their SAE projects. 2. Add an SAE component to BLAST Off or NLCSO to properly present SAE information. 3. Hold an SAE fair at national convention and encourage states to hold an SAE fair at the state level. 4. Develop an awards system to credit those chapters showing high productivity in SAE's. by awarding them with gift certificates from A representative from Husqvarna explains career opportunities to these Ventures supply store. 5. Recommend that SAE's be required in all agriculture education attentive FFA members. curricula.

Respectfully submitted:

Adam J. Byrd,TX (Chair) Kristyn Woodrow, AR Corrine A. Blum, MA (Vice Chair) Paul Amador, CA Lisa Jividen, AL Melissa Augusto, CA Leah Willeford, AR Lee McMillan, CT Jessica Allen, CA Jody Underwodd, GA Matt Archer, CA Debbie Kleitsch, IA B J. Jones, CO Beth Wilson, IL Jarrett Tyus, FL Keith Gates, LA Maiko Yajima, HI Jody Roope, ME Krystle Wengreen, ID Tammy Gilland, MN Joe Thomas, KY Amanda Hentz, MS Shaun Shriner, MD Mark Elliott, NC Katie McCune, MI Janice Bailey, OH Kristen Curtis, MO Mel Ray Alright, OK Jarod Linne', MT Marc Smith, OR Laura Cooper, NJ Lori Beth Rhodes, SC Greg Dague, OH Ty Hamm, TX FFA members participated in 22 career development events during A J., Butler, OK Shane Shockley, TX the convention, from extemporaneous public speaking to agricultural Adam Buxton, RI Scott Russell, VA communications demonstration. This forestry activity was held at Stephanie Johnson, TN Kirstin Quesnel, VT Bernheim Forest. Dusty Moore, TX Cindy Dipprey, WI John Slaughter, TX Benjamin Collier, WV committee reports ...

communications and public relations

We recommend:

Communications Technology and National FFA Online

1 Review and reorganize National FFA Online by audience and interests (i.e., students/teachers/administrators, recruitment, personal stories, specific monitored chat rooms, state associations, applications, scholarships). 2. Simplify state association web addresses and develop links from National FFA Online. 3. Pursue the development of interactive CD-ROM's in the following areas: how to use the internet, how to build a webpage, how to correspond, CDE information, how to build your chapter (i.e., fundraising, activities, etc.). 4. Web page promotion through personalization (i.e., e-mail, web link, state activities).

Media Relations and Public Relations

1 Develop a Chapter Public Relations Guide including: information on key messages, press release formats, examples of correspondence, FFA Week ideas, sample Public Service Announcements, and a list of resources available. Include supplements in FFA New Horizons. 2. Develop online surveys for best practices and ideas relative to public relations. (Publish results in FFA New Horizons.) 3. Design motivational and exciting posters for schools that show a variety of "fun" images of FFA. 4. Seek national co-branding sponsor (i.e., "Proud Sponsor of National FFA" on Papa John's pizza boxes). 5. Evaluate timeliness of current promotional videos and resume distribution of convention highlights. 6. Develop FFA emblems that can be put on community billboards to be offered Delegates from Texas stand together, even after the grueling hours on the through the supply service catalog. delegate floor. Delegates met Monday through Saturday for business 7. Provide a link from the web site to AOL for creating chapter homepages. sessions. 8. Gear website toward members. 9. Encourage state recognition of exceptional reporters. 10. Include motivational quotes in FFA New Horizons.

Communications Strategies for Member Recruitment, Involvement, and Retention Programs

I . Create links on the web site specifically for recruitment strategies and opportunities. Create a database of members' e-mail addresses by adding a column on the membership rosters for e-mail addresses. Add a place on the membership rosters to indicate chapter presidents so we may comm tarcet these individuals with recruitment materials.

Respectfully submitted:

4. Re-direct posters to non-agricultural students and create videos with exciting,

• Nick McKenna, IA (Chair) Jared Mitchell, AL casual dress scenes. ' Renee Durham, AR Kevin Smith, AR 5. Create a web-based e-mail server through www.ffa.org for member e-mail accounts. Brandon Leister, AZ Jordan Cordeiro, CA Victoria Costa, CA Molly Fagundes, CA National FFA Convention Communications

' Eric Finley, CA Thad Robertson, CO 1 Create a student communications team that will deal with on-site Mike convention information topics like Internet I Leventry, DE Luke Fountain, FL access, news-stand information, Meghan Davis, GA Claudia Paul, GA event locations, etc. 2. Strategically place television monitors around convention that will broadcast Dwight Little, ID Stephanie Warner, IN daily agendas and convention highlights. Also have scrolling marquis or kiosks Sean Arians, IL Courtney Everett, KS display information. Taylor Coots, KY K.C.Toups, LA 3. Place informative table tents on food court tables and other places where people

1 Paul Durepo, ME Beth Smego, MI congregate. Also place information in strategic locations (i.e.. bathroom stalls, Justin Lessman, MN Zach Crews, MO local food places, on shuttle buses, etc.). Enhance the guidebook to include information about presenters'/speakers' key points. Brandon Uchtman, MO Christina Cox, NC 4. Provide an incentive program for members who attend different events Annthie Kramer, NE Dawn Kaufman, NJ (i.e., scavenger hunt, verification cards). Juleah Tolosky, NY Laura Dengler, OH 5. Create a standard workshop for state officers to present addressing national Heath Eisele, OH Brian Leedy, OK convention. David Turner, OK Phillip Frankford Jr., PA 6. Try to set up an alliance with Channel-One News to promote and report on the national FFA convention. Heather King, SC Roxanne Wagner, SD Shannon Reburn,TN Darrrell Bowers, TX Jason McClure, TX Tracy Tomascik, TX Matt Wagner, TX Jacob West, TX Matthew Hickey, VA Emily Hyland, WA Jennifer Smith, WI Tracy Smithback, WI A , .

committee

FFA We Recommend: FFA Home Page publications *1. Create a virtual help center, including a virtual assistant, to help the user. Include a pop-up character with voice feed (similar to assistant in Microsoft Office). 2. Create a link to the National FFA's theme songs, including archives of past theme songs. Also, have current theme song play when home page comes up. 3. Implement a national officer tracking link that highlights where the officers are during a certain time. Have voice feeds and pictures highlighting their travels. 4. Remove old links and update links already on the page. Review facts that are currently on the page. 5. Create a link that lets members submit articles to the home page focusing on identified subjects. The articles will be periodically removed.

Handbook *1. An index consisting of informational key words should be inserted into the FFA Handbook. 2. Replace the straight blue borders by alternating the color of margins between blue & gold. 3. Cross-check information between the manual and the handbook. 4. Devote one entire page to the National FFA Creed. 5. Place key terms and vocabulary in the margins for easier teaching of important information.

Manual *1. Insert an index consisting of informational key words into the FFA Manual. 2. Insert tabs in the manual corresponding with the table of contents applying alternating colors (red, white and black) in order to find information in the manual. 3. Spiral binding the FFA manual would make reading much easier and accessible. In addition to the spiral bound manual, the traditional style manual would also be accessible. 4. Include a drawing or picture in the FFA Manual showing official dress for men and women with detailing lines showing specific features of the uniform.

Extra! Extra! Read all about it. These FFA 5. Have an optional official opening/closing ceremonies for the parts of parliamentarian, students members stayed abreast of convention happenings advisor, chaplain, and historian in the Official Manual. by reading the daily newspaper. FFA Today. The New Ideas newspaper was sponsored by The Courier-Journal * 1 . FFA acquires its own computer server with: Lexington Herald Leader and Landmark A. Links from national, state and chapter home pages Communciations. B. Attaching web page to certain search engines C. Links to agricultural education technology D. Create database management system 2. Improve professional appearance of FFA New Horizons A. Broadening advertisement base B. Creating a section for each age group C. Creating a calendar of events on the national level D. Referencing links in FFA New Horizons for specific topics 3. Spiral-Bind Official Manuals that have tabs and are larger in size. Respectfully submitted: 4. Personalize home page and create a memory of previous visits to the site by personal e-mail address. 5. Put the Official Manual on the home page. Scott Priebe, IN (Chair) 6. Create partnership with other school clubs for help on chapter or local home page. A. Updating Melissa Swenson, UT (Vice Chair) B. General Maintenance Ryan Foor, I Katie Turner, SD FFA New Horizons * will Nichole Steward, NJ I . FFA New Horizons implement a bolder, more mature and informative magazine cover that be Elio Chiarelli, PA attractive to members through photo covers and visual structure through article previews. 2. An electronic version of FFA New Horizons be made readily available, providing opportunities Leslie Funkhouser, VA available to members, links to other state inserts, a preview page of what is to come in Greta Gartreaux, LA upcoming issues, an overview of past and current issues of interactions - all in an easily navigable web site. 3. A page or half-page be established that provides members with links to Internet sites on various topics from scholarships, special interests, agricultural facts, associations/chapter links, and people/groups. 4. FFA New Horizons periodically insert business reply cards with information on upcoming opportunities and events on the national level that members may want to receive more information on. 5. A career sketch should be provided in each issue that highlights a specific career with a past member who has excelled in their field of interest or career choice. 6. FFA New Horizons cover a broader spectrum of articles that will allow urban members to relate. 7. FFA New Horizons develop a national cover design search. 8. FFA New Horizons feature a profile article of a past national officer 10, 15, or 20 years down the road, looking into their lives, families and what social developments they may have been involved with over the years. 9. Include a quote, trivia question, joke, etc., on each page. 10. FFA New Horizons develop an evaluation form to insert for member responses. different groups. 1 1 FFA New Horizons look into new fresh advertisements that appeal to 12. Provide all national officers' e-mail addresses for the members on the national officer Q&A page. leadership and personal development

We recommend:

Technology Implementation *1. Develop a grant program and application process to ensure that the chapters who truly need technology have an equal chance of obtaining it through a partnership with sponsors (starting at the state level and ending at the national level).

2. Encourage the National FFA Organization to develop a technology task force to reach a broader spectrum of FFA members in order to utilize current and forthcoming technology. 3. Encourage national staff to promote the production of promotional videos relatina to different divisions (i.e. area, district, region, section, etc.) at NLCSO or BLAST Off.

Program Refurbishment and Development 1. The state officer continuum to include more detailed recruitment and fundraising ideas from all associations and present them to state officers and chapters. *2. National convention student workshops should be developed that will increase the awareness of FFA international programs and newly developed FFA leadership programs. 3. Use the state officer continuum to implement new ideas and techniques for working with younger FFA members. 4. That Advanced Leadership Development (ALD) program include an area involving the utilization of leadership skills developed at previous levels.

Leadership Programs Promotion Have better utilization of web page and FFA New Horizons for promotional purposes, for programs such as Experiencing Discovery, Growth and Excellence (EDGE), Made for Excellence (MFE). Advanced Leadership Development (ALD) and Washington Leadership Conference (WLC) by including dates and places of these programs for all states and the purpose of program. *2. Create an exhibit to highlight FFA leadership programs at national and state conventions.

Declare a "Greenhand Day" and use it to enrich greenhands' knowledge of advanced opportunity levels in the FFA. committee

Program Evaluation *1. Traditional evaluation by number or scantron evaluations be replaced with more creative evaluation methods (e.g., begin a conference with skits regarding expectations, followed by another skit at the end of the conference where students demonstrate what they have learned). A suggestion box to provide a forum for comments regarding the conference. 2. Evaluations should be relevant to the conference, conference theme and the age group of the participants involved. 3. Evaluations should be sought periodically throughout the conference, instead of one overall evaluation submitted at the end of the conference only.

Respectfully submitted:

Gregory Ellis, GA (Chair) Brandi Pritchett, GA JoeBrhlik,TX Bill Leib, PA (Vice Chair) Bradley Carter, KY Alexandra Tsipouras, DE Alisha Turnbull, AL Jim Melby, WI Daniel Mothershead, MO Bambi Sidwell, OK Ryan Sweeney, MI Daniel Clayton, TX Beth Stover, VA Melissa Gomes, CA Diana Alamo, FL Betsy Bakken, IL Kelly Tilsey, IL Mark Henerson, NY Important decisions regarding the FFA had to be Matt Barnes, TN Sarah Myers, OH Jonathon Mallard, TX made during convention week. Delegate support and Brad Mabry, TX Myra Walters, SC Scott Grumbles, CA discussion were a crucial session. Stephanie Wellet, AZ Katy Home, SD Shannon Tubbs, AK Joseph Lagasse, MA Terrell Buck, OK Atiya Palmer, WA Anna Dearmon, LA Amanda Dight, IA Melissa Emmons, MO Wyatt Gardiner, UT Tim Hammerich, CA Andrea Hill, AL Joseph McCollum, MS Erin Poessnecker, NE Matt Reinders, WI Lillian Wafford, IN Carley Wood,TX .... .

We Recommend: committee Customer Relations *1 . Insert two or three extra pages in the FFA New Horizons with products from the student catalog that students can order. Also, insert a request card for a student catalog in the magazine with questions (e.g., "Have you ever ordered from the student catalog before?") 2. After orders are received, send customers a confirmation card/e-mail with an expected shipment date. List their order so they can make sure the FFA center received the correct order. 3. For Internet shopping, give passwords to each advisor to ensure security in ordering instead of using credit card numbers. The password will pull up information about the school, include billing address/person, etc. 4. Use e-mail chat service (using same password as above) to answer questions during busy season if phones are busy. 5. Offer more toll-free lines, including a suggestion line. marketing 6. Publicize the magazine modeling opportunities more, possibly in FFA New Horizons, for the FFA catalog. and merchandising 7. Place shipping chart next to order form in catalog. 8. Give specific sizes (in inches) of jewelry, such as earrings. 9. Supply a lager variety of advisor gifts in the student catalog. 10. Provide special phone numbers specifically for ordering jackets and call

it "jacket line."

Marketing Strategies * 1 . Create a poster for FFA products featuring national and/or state officers for distribution to all chapters. Respectfully submitted: 2. Place accessories and other apparel on people to enhance the detail of the product. Matt Wilson, AK (Chair) 3. Use national and state officers as models in the catalog. 4. catalog twice year with spring and fall updates. Chrystal Peterson, AZ (Vice Chair) Mail the a 5. Make the catalog easier to use by including a table of contents and Brooke Killen, AL staggered colored tabs along the side versus the top. Nikki Cooper, AR 6. Ask chapter and state web pages to add a link to the online store. Julie Kondoff, CA 7. Create a sizing chart for all clothing in the catalog. Alissa Lovett, CA 8. Create a tear-out or send a postcard to inform members about the online Megan McReynolds, CA store and catalog, and encourage them to get a catalog. 9. Offer coupons in FFA New Horizons for items in the catalog or the Desiree Mendonca, CA online store. Ryan Colgan, CT 10. Provide a way for members to submit their ideas for new items in the Amanda Smith, FL catalog and online store. Carl Stalvey, GA Kari Zevenbergen, IA Internet Store Evaluation Ted Lflves, IL * 1 . Upgrade online store stock to include a complete catalog of National Renell Calloway, IN Convention Merchandise and FFA computer merchandise. Tommy Logsdon, KY 2. Provide access codes for advisors and state staff to order awards, related Allison Bruchhaus, LA products and FFA jackets. Matt Koerner, MI) (Co-Chair) 3. Increase advertising using e-mail, leaflets and on-line perks for using/ visiting the on-line store. Mark Jewell, MN 4. Put menus and descriptions on separate scroll bars. Kueker, Doug MO 5. Use better-quality pictures. Austin Knudsen, MT 6. Don't use models for on-line pictures. Tara Runion, NC (Co-Chair) 7. Use larger photos of logos on merchandise. Shanna Gratton, ND 8. Use more detailed merchandise descriptions including size. Linnae Selinga, NH (Co-Chair) Leslie Utton, NM Product Development * Chad Venters, NV (Co-Chair) 1 Redesign quality of official dress (skirts and pants) and provide Elaine McConnell, OH appropriate size charts. Lindsey Pound, OH 2. Offer bulk packaged official dress. 3. Expand variety of bumper stickers/static-cling. Travis Bradshaw, OK 4. Personalize license plate covers. Jennifer Hayes, OK 5. Offer full-sized sports ball with the FFA emblem. Audrey Stockhoff, OR (Co-Chair) 6. Offer linens with the emblem (i.e. pillowcases, sheets, etc.) Larissa Baney, PA 7. Offer FFA emblem cookie cutter. Jonathan Tossas, PR (Co-Chair) 8. Offer ice chest. Kim Newsom, TN 9. Offer can cozy/coolie. 10. Widen variety of caps and visors (vary shape, color, hat, patches). Greg Coats, TX 1 1 Offer blue and gold Christmas lights. Jessica Foster, TX 12. Offer graduation tassels. Matthew Kempen,TX 13. Offer fleece vests. Daniel Kessler, TX 14. Offer embroidery on more merchandise.

1 Offer Carhartt and Columbia jackets. Damon Young, TX 5 16. Offer regular watches and clocks. Mandy Bushman, UT 17. Add more jewelry. Bart Kite, VA 18. Offer variety of overalls. Sidney Vander Wey, VT (Co-Chair) 19. Offer shoestrings. Morgan Irwin, WA 20. Offer mesh athletic shorts.

2 1 Offer spirit tattoos. Jed Bauer, WI 22. Offer shirts for FFA supporters/partners. Stacy Child, WY 23 Offer FFA trading cards 24. Offer FFA wrapping paper. 25. Offer children's clothing. 26. Offer personal photo album and frames. 27. Offer collectors tin. 28. Offer thermal travel mug. 29. Offer FFA roping bag and dummy. program of activities

Program of Activities:

We recommend: *1. Scheduling time for committee meeting room preparation. 2. Scheduling meeting time for committee chairs, vice chairs and co-chairs.

3. Scheduling meeting time for committee chairs, vice chairs, delegate coordinators and assistant delegate coordinators. 4. Building in clarification of the delegate process during delegate orientation at national convention. 5. Formatting a template for committee reports.

6. Creating an understanding at the State President's Conference of the chair's, vice chair's and co-chair's roles as facilitators during the delegate process at national convention.

Respectfully Submitted:

Will Dukes, FL (Chair) Matt Wilson, AK Gregory Ellis, GA Nick McKenna, IA Scott Priebe, IN Sarah Geiger, KS Davey Tree was one of the 349 career show exhibits that featured a hands- Brandon Reed, KY on approach to agricultural careers. Katie Sissel, NE Adam Byrd, TX Tolea Kamm, WI

These FFA members enjoyed spending time together in between convention sessions. committee reports I membership recruitment and participation

We recommend:

100% Membership *1. Compile a 100% membership packet to bend to all chapters (including fundraisers for dues and rewards for chapters). 2. Start a national advertising campaign (billboards, Internet, commercials, etc.). 3. Encourage states to establish a support system for all agricultural education teachers and include other agricultural associations. 4. Promote chapter member ambassador/recruiter awards and recognition through FFA New Horizons and the FFA homepage. Respectfully submitted: 5. Promote 100% membership through FFA New Horizons.

Katie Sissel, NE (Chair) National Recruitment Programs *1 Joshua Worthington, MO (Vice Chair) . Split the National Recruitment Program into a two-phase application, beginning the first phase with recommendations from past state officer teams, and the second phase Lybbi Stiefel, AL with objectives of current officer teams. Misty Smith, AR 2. Encourage states to provide FFA advisors/teachers and chapter officers with more Candice Murphy, AZ effective ways to use recruitment/retention material. Angela Browning, CA 3. Feature the winner of state officer recognition program in FFA New Horizons. Douglas Paasch, CA 4. Recognize the winner of recognition program during the national convention session with an individual state plaque award and place state name on a national plaque award. Nancy Paasch, CA 5. Present the FFA guide to recruitment/retention to college agriculture professors. Ashley Parker, CA 6. Award the winning state with a special entertainment feature that will be held during Samantha Pepiot, CA its state convention. Abby Sameck, FL Eustace Griffin, GA Member Benefits *1. Create a welcome package targeted toward greenhands, emphasizing the opportunities San Antonio Taylor, GA available within the FFA. and send it directly to members. Tim Hibma, IA 2. Develop chapter officer training emphasizing recruitment and retention of members Lindsay Donovan, IL nationwide. Danny Miller, IL 3. Publicize the benefits of three year membership through all available resources Katie Robertson, IN (ie. Manual. FFA New Horizons, web site). 4. Implement an incentive program targeting advisors and/or chapters which will reward Beth Ludlum, KS each chapter for recruitment (points toward FFA catalog). Brian Brammell, KY 5. Better promote the diverse programs of the FFA by centering around the Jeremy Cox, KY non-traditional, agricultural programs (i.e. proficiencies other than production, Kevin Moreau, LA agricultural communication, agricultural sales and international travel). Mark Daniels, MI Kellie Ladlie, MN Member Retention Bradley Kidd, NC *1 . Educate agricultural education teachers via Internet tutorial (web site), hardcopy and Tomee Lightfoot, NM conferences in order to motivate and retain members. Joseph Frey, NV 2. Create an information packet to send to counselors and administrators showing the Doug Shannon, OH FFA connection to curriculum standards and the benefits of FFA. 3. Send a personal letter directly to the homes of first-year members welcoming them to Stephanie Shertzer, OH the FFA. Rachel Johnson, OK 4. Develop a local recognition program to recognize quality supervised agricultural Nikki Jaeger, OR experience (SAE) using a gold/silver/bronze system. Maria Trego, PA 5. Continue supporting collegiate FFA and alumni membership; try to expand programs Javier Moreno, PR and distribute more information about post-secondary involvement. Erin Holliday, SC Jill Bolton, TN Adam Comer, TN Dustin Clark, TX Alyson Lyles, TX Marcy Melton, TX Audrey Smith, TX Julie Wright, TX Laurel Evans, UT Bridget Sine, VA Abbie Kammerzell, WA Christy Morrison, WV committee reports I Respectfully submitted:

Will Dukes, FL (Chair) Karrie Blake, CO (Vice Chair) Jeanie Edwards, AL Tremayne Wilson, AL Becca Wherry, AR Jessica Thomas, CA Michelle Vieira, CA Valarie Walker, CA Trevor Weaver, CA Dane White, CA Hilary Sepe, CT Lindsay Land, FL Emily Tyson, GA Bryan Humphreys, IA Lance Zollinger, ID Emily Kessler. IL Jared Nussbaum, IN Sara Williamson, KY Amber Burch, LA Justin Bowman, LA Nikki Roach, LA Sarah Clemenson, MN Colleen Griswold, MO Heather Holley, MS Ryan Bailey, MT Jessica Skinner, NC Heath Rutherford, NM Candice Stock, NY Andy Vance, OH Heather Wells, OH Kendra Kelton, OK Becky Luke, OK Amy Sakers, PA Noel Vargas, PR Delegates actively participate in discussion on the delegate floor. Julie Pedigo, TN Paul Harding, TX Jayson Hill, TX Jeff Petter, TX Reagan Pillack, TX Amanda Thompson, TX Ben Grove, VA Matthew Sweezea, WA committee reports

Rebecca Kyles, WI Jeremy Fletcher, WV Jessica Clark, WY Ryan Bailey, MT partner development Julie Pedigo, TN Jessica Clark, OK Jayson Hill, TX Bryan Humphreys, IA Trevor Weaver, CA Noel Vargas, PR We recommend: Candice Stock, NY Becky Kyles, WI School and Community Involvement Colleen Griswold, MO Jessica Skinner, NC *1. To develop a presentation outline for state officers on partner development and Paul Harding, TX Sarah Clemenson, MN retention based on the "Get Connected" handbook. The presentation's target audience Andy Vance, OH Becky Luke, OK will be local chapter leadership. 2. To include a page on the partner development section of the National FFA web site Heather Holley, MS Dane White, CA that will reinforce how to build school- and community-based partners, encourage Jessica Thomas, CA Becca Wherry, AR partner retention and appreciation. 3. To use the FFA New Horizons magazine to raise awareness of students and teachers Mathew Sweezea, WA Michelle Vieira, CA about partner development links on the National FFA home page. Hilary Sepe, CT Emily Tyson, GA 4. Better organization of the partner development web page to make it easier for Zollinger, Nussbaum, IN community and school leaders to find refevant partner links and continue to increase Lance ID Jared the number of these links. Heath Rutherford, NM Amy Sakers, PA Petter, Jerremy Fletcher, Building Partnerships Jeff TX WV

*1 . To have the Teacher Services Team and Communications Resources Team develop Amanda Thompson, TX Kendra Kelton, OK a program to promote partnerships. The program may include, but is not limited to, Lindsey Land, FL Heather Holley, MS news releases, advertisements and recognition. 2. To provide training at NLCSO on the "Get Connected" handbook, enabling state Dane White, CA Jessica Thomas, CA officers to spread the word to agriculture teachers/advisors during workshops or Becca Wherry, AR Mathew Sweezea, WA intern services. Vieira, Hilary Sepe, 3. The Teacher Services Team to sponsor a partnership grant program for state Michelle CA CT officers similar to the existing recruitment/retention grants. Emily Tyson, GA Lance Zollinger, ID 4. The National FFA Organization to promote partner development by providing Jared Nussbaum, IN Heath Rutherford, NM convention speakers and workshops targeting this topic. Amy Sakers, PA Jeff Petter, TX Material Information Jeremy Fletcher, WV *] . The National FFA to strengthen the importance of partners in the community development section of the National Chapter Award application and Program of Amanda, Thompson, TX Activities. Jeremy Fletcher, WV 2. That all Partner Development materials be available online and/or send to each chapter one free packet (including "Get Connected"). Kendra Kelton, OK 3. The Partners' table-top displays be sent to each state convention. Lindsey Land, FL 4. The National FFA Organization to work with agricultural industry publications to familiarize present and potential partners with the FFA and the opportunities to provide their support. 5. The National Organization to develop and distribute materials that help states create publications to inform partners of the achievements of members. 6. The National Organization to develop and distribute an idea pamphlet that will help chapters develop and improve partner relations and increase support.

Alumni Relations *] . The National FFA to provide grants to states for alumni plans and ideas similar to the recruitment and retention grants. 2. FFA New Horizons to create an alumni theme for one section annually. 3. To create an alumni/member function at national convention such as a discussion panel, luncheon or workshop. 4. To have collegiate FFA activities at the national convention to link Collegiate FFA to the FFA Alumni. committee

The nominating committee has the tough job of determining new national

officers. Front Row:

(left to right) Wendie Wallis, Katy Poth, Rob Shafer and Ginger Bright. Back Row:

(left to right) Abel Wurmnest, Casey Roats. Matthew Webber. Lance Kuenning and Barrett Keene. auditing nominating

Auditing: We. the Nominating Committee, have given careful and deliber- We recommend: ate consideration to all applicants running for a national office. The committee nominates the following slate of candidates to the 1 . Accepting the audit as a clean audit and as presented. delegates at the National Convention to serve as 2. Keeping the national dues at the current amount of $5 72nd FFA for the 2000-2001 year. national officers for the year 1999-2000.

National Treasurer: Marion Fletcher, Arkansas Respectfully submitted: National Executive Secretary: C. Coleman Harris, Washington, D.C. National Advisor: Larry D. Case, Washington. D.C. Christal Etchells, RI (Chair) Vice President Central Region: Leslie Small, Corrine Blum, MA (Secretary) Arkansas City, Kansas Melissa Swenson, UT Vice President Eastern Region: Joe Shultz, DeGraff. Ohio Ryan Maloch,AR Vice President Southern Region: Carol Spruill, Hoschton, Georgia Bill Leib, PA Vice President Western Region: Marshall Baker, Karrie Blake, CO Portales, New Mexico Amy Kenley, AK National Secretary: Jodee Ruppel, North Manchester, Indiana Josh Worthington, MO National President: Chris Vitelli, Plant City, Florida

Respectfully submitted:

Ginger Bright, OK (Chair) Abel Wurmnest, IL (Vice Chair) Robert Bell, SD Karen Hutchison, DE Charles Keels, NC Barrett Keene, FL Lance Kuenning, NE Katy Poth, OH Casey Roats, OR Rob Shafer, NM Robert Torres, NM Wendie Wallis, AR Matthew Webber, DE national FFA convention

We recommend: Respectfully Submitted:

Experience and Impact Sarah Geiger, KS (Chair) *1. Create an entertainment brochure or poster that highlights local attractions such as Brandon Davis, MS (Vice-Chair) concerts, shopping malls, amusement parks, restaurants and the career fair to send directly to school and agricultural advisors to publicize all possible activities. Sarah Biddle, PA 2. Send promotional videos to state associations highlighting convention experiences such Jamie Rivers, SC as a day in the life of a FFA member at national convention Abby Dewberry, AL 3. Have members submit positive personal experiences to New Horizons magazine, FFA Lilybeth Colon, PR stating their own personal experiences or snapshots of their trip. Jennifer Edwards, AL 4. Make members more aware of workshops and activities at convention through commercials, posters and flyers. These methods should state the date, time, presenter Bobbie Jo Tomac, SD and main focus of the workshop or activity. Brandy Schall, AR Craig Phillips, TN Membership Raney Grissom, AZ (Co-Chair) *1. Create a day conference within the convention for younger members. Holli Turner, TN 2. Provide video and information packet to distribute to chapters. 3. Offer national convention survey online with raffle prizes. Deanna Richmond, CA 4. Provide a game area to focus on agricultural trivia during down time (i.e. chapter Dustin LeNorman, TX feuds. Wheel of Fortune). Tracy Schohr, CA scavenger with all convention. 5. Create a hunt prizes to incorporate aspects of national Dustin Pearson, TX 6. Provide international food court to promote diversity. 7. Provide workshops dealing with regional diversity. I committee

Convention Review Amber Simmons, CA 4. Provide more private and professional facilities for CDE's (i.e. noise level and Lyndsey Schneider, TX preparation area). Marcelo Soares, CA Contain convention activities such as interviews within the convention area Phillip Smith, TX (i.e. Executive Inn and Executive West Hotels). Renee Melton, FL Create and send by mail a CDE-specific survey to send to advisors of all CDE participants, focusing on privacy, facilities, flow of contest and location. Jess Widner, TX 4. Create a separate entrance to convention hall for delegates, advisors and VIPs. Joanna Griffin, GA 5. Increase shuttle service for all hotels to convention facilities. Luke Turner, VA 6. Create off-area walkways to increase after hour security of FFA shopping mall and Brad Hammes, IA career show. Jessica Mackin, WA 7. Examine, and if necessary, reconstruct configuration of food court and shopping mall to utilize unoccupied space to fullest potential. Amber Wiebbecke, IA Establish "FFA Lighting Up Louisville" as a tradition (i.e. fireworks). Beth Planz, WI 9. Analyze state and delegate photo quality and change if needed. Hillary Lawler, IL 10. Develop ideas to commend Louisville for hosting the national FFA convention. Tyrell Childers, WV (Co-Chair) Rene Mettler, IL Activities in Action *1. To provide training and incentives (i.e. dinner, t-shirts, and award programs) to Jeremy Burkett, WY (Co-Chair) increase the quantity and quality to Courtesy Corps, due to the concern of short Megan McMichael, IN staffing and enforcement of FFA members code of conduct and official dress at Julie P'Pool, KY all sessions. Tim Hall, LA 2. Create a supplement of the national convention guidebook called The Yellow Pages of Jason Bibler, MI Louisville for FFA members, which should include climate, places of interests, malls, restaurants, hotels, parks, etc. Hector Matthys, MN (Co-Chair) 3. Posters at hotels' doors Shasta Renfrow, MO ( Co-Chair) with convention schedule. Christie Flechsenhar, MT (Co-Chair) 4. To improve information Allison McCabe, NC given in FFA New Horizons Anderson, and on the web page, Aaron ND (Co-Chair) concerning national Paul Timm, NE convention and community Amy Fogarty, NH (Co-Chair) activities (i.e. actual photos Shad Kyner, NM and maps of the city). Jason Sharp, OH 5. Provide informal time to mingle with national Matt Adair, OK officers. Amber Ramsey, OK 6. Continue the John Deere shuttles.

It's always hard to say good-bye .. But these students have acquired

memories and FFA friendships to last a lifetime. 1999-2000 national FFA officer

Chris Vitelli Jodee R. Ruppel Joe Shultz President Secretary Eastern Region Vice President Plant City, Florida North Manchester, Indiana DeGraff, Ohio Age: 20 Age: 20 Age: 20 Chapter: Plant City FFA Chapter Chapter: Manchester FFA Chapter Chapter: Indian Lake FFA Chapter Enterprise: feeder swine and steers Enterprise: sheep production, agricultural Enterprise: sheep production State FFA Office: Florida Association communications State FFA Office: Ohio Association Area V State Vice President State FFA Office: Indiana Association President FFA Awards: national extemporaneous President FFA Awards: national FFA scholarship public speaking winner, ornamental FFA Awards: state winner in leadership, recipient, state prepared public speaking

horticulture demonstration state winner, state participant in scrapbook and job finalist, state sheep production proficiency county star in agribusiness interview, majestic eagle leader award finalist College and Major: University of Florida. College and Major: Purdue University, College and Major: The Ohio State sophomore, double majoring in agricultural freshman, agricultural education and University, sophomore, agricultural education and agricultural leadership telecommunications education Career Goal: agriculture teacher Career Goal: agriculture teacher or Career Goal: education or human resource lobbyist for an agribusiness management

Leslie Small Carol Spruill Marshall Baker Central Region Vice President Southern Region Vice President Western Region Vice President Lebanon, Indiana Hoschton, Georgia Portales, New Mexico Age: 19 Age: 19 Age: 19 Chapter: Arkansas City FFA Chapter Chapter: Jackson County FFA Chapter Chapter: Texico FFA Chapter Enterprise: diversified livestock Enterprise: horse boarding and showing, hay Enterprise: oil crop and beef production State FFA Office: Kansas Association production State FFA Office: New Mexico Association President State FFA Office: Georgia Association Vice President and President FFA Awards: national livestock team, state President FFA Awards: national finalist for oil crop parliamentary law team, state creed winner, FFA Awards: national poultry and forestry career entrepreneurship, member of the national state public speaking contest, state dairy team development event high individual, state pre- reserve champion parliamentary procedure College and Major: Kansas State University. pared public speaking winner, state electrical team, state prepared public speaking and sophomore, agricultural economics wiring winner extemporaneous winner, state creed winner, Career Goal: international agricultural College and Major: University of Georgia, district star farmer systems sophomore, agricultural economics with an ani- College and Major: Austin College, fresh- mal science minor man, biology Career Goal: agricultural sales or law Career Goal: agriculture teacher or agribusiness Looavull. Luhvul. Lewisville. Looaville. LooeyviQe.

YOUR K IND OF PLA C EL 3

A /V Y WA Y YOU SA Y IT National FFA Convention Dates 2000-2005

October 25-28, 2000 October 24-27, 2001

October 30-November 2, 2002

October 29-November 1, 2003 October 27-30, 2004 October 26-29, 2005

The National FFA Organization affirms its belief in the value of all

human beings and seeks diversity in its membership, leadership and staff. The Proceedings was prepared and published by the National FFA

Organization in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Education as a

service to state and local agricultural education agencies.

FFA Mission

FFA makes a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal gowth and career success through agricultural education.

The Agricultural Education Mission

The mission of Agricultural Education is to prepare and support individu- als for careers, build awareness and develop leadership for the food, fiber and natural resource systems.

© 2000 National FFA Organization J* ProqrOm

Building quality programs and putting school-to-career in action