December 2014 by Texas Ag Ed

NEWS A Texas Team Ag Ed Publication

December 2014

The Way I See It Jack Winterrowd, Cedar Park

“Joy does not simply happen to us. We have to choose joy and keep choosing it every day.” ― Henri J.M. Nouwen Where do you find your joy? This time of year brings a wave of nostalgia to my mind. I think it is partly because of my age and the stage of life that I am in. Having taught for so many years and having so many young people enter and leave my classroom, I can easily think of the many joyful opportunities that have come my way. The joy we experience when we see a newborn animal take its first steps and in turn witnessing the mother’s careful watch. The joy we feel when a young person experiences their first success at an FFA event and then when they look to us for recognition and praise. The joy we know when our families gather together for Christmas celebrations. All of these examples of joy, and many more, seem to camp out in the forefront of my mind. To be joyful is a conscious choice that we must constantly make. Each day as I prepare myself for work, I think about the day ahead and try to plan how it will unfold. I have a 30 minute commute from home to school that allows me time to organize my thoughts and mentally prepare for the day ahead. If for some reason my routine is interrupted – like I over sleep or have to fix something at the barn that an angry sow has torn up – it can throw my day’s preparation into a different mode. It is those days that I must remind myself to find joy in the

day ahead. “The greatest joys in life are found not only in what we do and feel, but also in our quiet hopes and labors for others.” ― Bryant McGill I truly believe that teaching is my calling. My student teaching block had 28 members. After graduation, ten of us began our careers as ag teachers. For the first couple years we would get together at the teacher’s conference and trade war stories. As the years passed our numbers thinned, so much so that, today I am the only one still teaching. Some of them have retired from a long career in agriculture education. However, most of my peers didn’t become teachers or if they did begin teaching, they only stayed a few years. For some, I know it wasn’t their calling. They didn’t find joy in the day-to-day life of an ag teacher. So how does teaching give us joy? I think that is a very personal question because everyone has a

different concept of joy. Everyone has a different level of joy that it takes to put up with all the other things that, we as ag teacher, struggle with daily. These things are certainly not joyful or joy-filled, such as ARD meetings, parent conferences and semester exams. I don’t know of many people who actually like to grade papers and tests, but I do like the look of satisfaction on a student’s face when they receive the grade they hoped to make. I don’t always like the hours of preparation we spend training LDE teams but I always treasure that first glimpse of joy in a student’s eyes when their name is announced after winning a contest. I certainly don’t like a snared show pig screaming in my ear as I clip it for the county show, but the look of joy on the students face when they hold their blue ribbon is worth the lingering ringing noise. “Joy is what happens to us when

Continue on page 2

VATAT News

The Way I See It

Building Improvement Project

Continued

Barney McClure, VATAT Executive Director

we allow ourselves to recognize how good things really are.” ― Marianne Williamson It is easy to find joy in the simplicity of life’s events when we consider the other people who are not as fortunate as we are. It’s always this time of the year that we see the commercials on TV of children with cancer. I acutely remember my first student who died of cancer while a freshman. She lived her life so completely and was joyful throughout all of her ordeal. As I stood beside her tiny casket, as a pallbearer, in my mind’s eye I could see the look of joy on her face while showing her lambs. She fought for her life and lost her battle but she was joyful until the end. Her mom told me how much she enjoyed showing and about the joy she felt the last time she was in the show ring. Even though she was weak from chemo and didn’t have any hair or physical stamina, she still showed her lamb at the county show and won a buckle. That joy is something that no one could take away from her. My family brings joy into my life like no other thing. We have a big, loud family and our family gatherings are a challenge to pull together. With the addition of grandchildren into our family, there is a new element of joy in our lives. The joy on a child’s face when they open a present and see what their heart desires is truly priceless. That look of joy is followed by a feeling of joy in my heart and soul because it is during those times that I can truly recognize just how much I have to be thankful for and find joy in seeing. There really isn’t any material thing that I need in the form of a present for Christmas. However, I desperately need the joy that comes from family and friends as we gather to celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Joy is a shared experience that is made richer by the sharing. “To get the full value of joy you must have someone to divide it with.” ― Mark Twain So now comes the challenge! I challenge you to actively search for ways to find joy in your daily life. That could be in the form of time spent over the holidays with family and friends. For some people, it will come from religious celebrations surrounding the Christmas holiday season and all of the traditions that it brings to mind. In some instances it can be the simple joy of not having to get up early and get ready for school for a couple weeks. I am guessing there are some new teachers, and possibly some more experienced ones too, who will find profound joy in the fact that they are taking a well-deserved break from the daily grind. “Joy is the infallible sign of the presence of God.” ― Pierre Teilhard de Chardin I will spend the month of December looking for joy and choosing to be joyful. I hope and pray that you will do the same thing. Have a wonderful Christmas and Holiday season. I look forward to seeing you this spring at various contest and events. And that’s the way I see it…

Most of you probably know VATAT owns the building we occupy in Austin. The building is also home to the Texas FFA, Texas FFA Foundation and VATAT Credit Union. This 6,600 square foot building allows Texas Team Ag Ed to collaborate daily on projects, and is the envy of most other state organizations of our kind. I am proud to say that the facility is scheduled to be completely debt free in seven more years. Because of favorable interest rate, this is two and a half years early. Along with the advantages of facility ownership, there are taxes, insurance, maintenance and repairs that have to be made. After more than eleven years of use, some updates were needed. The VATAT Board of Directors allocated the bulk of the updates, and coupled with a maintenance fund to which all entities in the building contribute, allowed us to make the upgrades. The first thing accomplished was sealing and striping the parking lot. Next was painting the interior. The wall paint is a light tan with a slightly darker trim. The painters were very meticulous, and did their best to paint around our employees work stations very carefully. The carpet in the building was replaced with commercial grade vinyl planks that provide a wood look. The thought is that the vinyl will be easier to maintain, healthier for employees and more attractive. I really want to compliment all the employees in the building. With a project of this magnitude schedules were disrupted and people were temporarily displaced. Everyone adapted, adjusted, and didn’t let frustration get the better of him or her. There are still some things to be done, but I think our building is something that every member can be proud of, and one that will create a favorable impression on anyone who comes by. I would like to invite any of you to stop by. We are only one block off Interstate 35, and we would love to show you your building.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE VATAT.........................................1-2 Texas FFA...................................3 - 5 Foundation.............................8 Texas FFA Alumni........................12 Young Farmers....................13 - 15

VATAT News

UPDATE 87th National FFA Convention Texas Rewind Tom Maynard, Texas FFA Executive Director Texas FFA students shined in national competitions hosted by the National FFA Organization. Texans dominated agriscience fair competitions and made a solid showing in career development events and award competitions based on student supervised agricultural experience programs. Texas chapters also made significant gains in the National Chapter Awards standings. “It’s not a perfect correlation, but national competition gives us an idea how our students, teachers and programs stack up against those in other states,” said Texas FFA Executive Director Tom Maynard. “Intense competition at the state level usually produces students who can perform consistently at a high level on a national stage. The overall performance by our students is a credit to them and their teachers.” “National competition also reveals areas that need attention,” said Maynard. “After the dust settles, we always sit down to dissect the data and assess current strategies and tactics to improve overall student performance.”

Texas Recognized for Top Membership The Texas FFA Association was recognized for the nation’s top membership growth in an award ceremony that was part of the national delegate process. Texas FFA grew by 8,444 between membership year 2012-13 and 2013-14 become the first state association to surpass 95,000 in total membership. The Texas membership surge accounted for 28% of the National FFA Organization’s 30,319 student membership growth. Texas FFA has grown by 40,764 members since 2009, in large part to a revision in the membership business model. 2014 marks the fifth consecutive year that Texas has recorded the top membership gain. National FFA Membership Top Membership States 13-14

Texas FFA Growth Since ‘09

1. Texas-103,731

2012-13: 95,287

2. California-76,432

2011-12: 86, 657

3. Georgia-37,684

2010-11: 81,535

4. Missouri-25,827

2009-10: 74,372

5. Oklahoma-25,552

2008-09: 62,967

Texans Dominate in Agriscience Fair Texas members brought five national titles in the National FFA Agriscience Fair back to the Lone Star State, with 16 of its 24 finalists finishing in the top three and 23 rated as gold in the four tier rating system (gold, silver, bronze, participants). Stephenville led the way with two national winners along with James Madison that captured three national runner-ups. “These results are a direct reflection of the variety of research methods displayed in agriscience; and are representative of the academic rigor and STEM integration as well. agriscience is STEM and has always been STEM,” said Texas FFA Agriscience Fair Superintendent and Texas Tech University professor, Dr. Rudy Ritz. Texas had all 24 of its entries qualify for the national finals in pre-judging held earlier in the year. The FFA Agriscience Fair provides a showcase for members whose individual experiential learning program, referred to as a supervised agricultural experience, is research and experimentation in sciences related to the animal, plant, food, social and environmental sciences and engineering. Agriscience Fair Championships Historically, Texas (All-time since 1998) members have fared well 1. Texas - 65 in the national competition 2. New Jersey - 22 winning a new total of a 3. Minnesota - 21 record 65 Agriscience Fair 4. Iowa - 20 national titles since the 5. California - 17 event’s inception in 1998. No state has ever won more agriscience championships than Texas. Texans had the greatest number and percentage of its entries finishing in the top three and the largest number of gold-rated entries. Georgia had the most overall winning entries. National Champions • Kyle Ramsey & Kynsee Gesch, Navasota: Animal Systems, Division 4 • Michah Rainey, Stephenville: Environmental/Natural Resource Systems, Division 1 • Gage Duffy, Krum: Plant Systems, Division 1 • Riley McKinzie and Jessica Dammers, Stephenville: Power, Structural and Technical Systems, Division 3 • Samuel Gostomski, Bandera: Social Systems, Division 2

VATAT News

Career Development Events As a state, Texas boasted another strong showing in Louisville, capturing two national career development event titles and one national runner-up title. Texans also turned in 11 top-five finishes as well this year. 15 of the state’s 24 entries finished in the top ten (63%). Since 1928, 82 Texas entries have claimed national championships. Only California has won more national titles, with 100. Seven states have never won a National FFA Career Development event in that time National Champions • Agricultural Issues Forum: Madisonville • Meats Evaluation: East Central

Texas Top 10

• 2nd Food Science and Technology: Florence • 3rd Agricultural Communications, James Madison • 3rd Agricultural Sales: Smithson Valley • 3rd Environmental and Natural Resources, Rusk • 3rd Extemporaneous Public Speaking, Gail • 3th Prepared Public Speaking, Lindale • 3rd Milk Quality and Products, La Vernia • 4th Agricultural Technology and Mechanical Systems, Sandra Day O’Connor • 5th Poultry, Gilmer • 7th Farm Business Management, Midlothian • 8th Horse Evaluation, Marion • 8th Livestock Evaluation, Spearman • 9th Floriculture, Stephenville • 9th Floriculture, Katy-James Taylor Texas National Career Development Event Results and History Event Agricultural Communications Agricultural Issues Forum Agricultural Mechanics Agricultural Sales Agronomy Creed Dairy Cattle Environmental/Natural Res. Extemporaneous Speaking Farm Business Mgmt Floriculture Food Science & Technology Forestry Horse Evaluation Job Interview Livestock Evaluation Marketing Plan Meats Evaluation Milk Quality Nursery/Landscape Parliamentary Procedure Poultry Evaluation Prepared Public Speaking Veterinary Science

2014 TX Entry

Result

2013

2012

James Madison Madisonville Sandra Day O’Connor Smithson Valley James Madison New Boston El Campo Rusk Gail Midlothian Stephenville Florence Dayton Marion Dalhart Spearman Anderson-Shiro East Central La Vernia James Madision Klondike Gilmer Lindale Clear Springs

Gold-3rd Gold-1st Gold-4th Gold-3rd Silver-29th Silver -15th Silver-27th Gold-3rd Gold-3rd Gold-7th Gold-9th Gold-2nd Bronze-39th Gold-8th Silver-29th Gold-8th Siver-16th Gold-1st Gold-3rd Silver-19th Silver-18th Gold-5th Gold-3rd Silver-27th

Gold-3rd Gold-1st Silver-29th Silver-14th Silver-20th Bronze Silver-29th Gold-3rd Gold-1st Silver-16th Gold-9th Gold-1st Silver-11th Gold-5th Silver-18th Silver-17th Gold-1st Gold-1st Gold-1st Gold-13th Silver-13th Gold-1st Gold-4th Gold-1st

Gold-6th Gold-2nd Silver-19th Gold-2nd Silver-16th Silver Silver-17th Bronze-29th

Gold-1st Silver-19th Gold-9th Gold-3rd Silver-17th Bronze-41st Silver-15th Silver-16th Silver Gold-1st Gold-10th Gold-6th Gold-5th Gold-2nd Silver Demo Only

Proficiency Awards Texans won two national proficiency awards in Louisville. 22 Texans were onstage as national finalists. Taylor Swinson of Sulphur Springs was the national winner of the Animal Systems-Agriscience Research Award. Cole Hudson of Ponder was the winner of the Beef Production – Placement Proficiency Award. FFA Proficiency Awards recognize achievement in student supervised agricultural experience programs, individualized hands-on career experiences which are an integral part of the agricultural education teaching model. Historically, Texans haven’t fared as well in proficiency award competition, but in the last five years have surged

as Texas teachers engage in the process and learn to navigate the national application and selection process. This year Texans broke the state record for the most National Proficiency Finalists with a high of 22. Texas ranked second in the total number of national finalists behind Ohio. Only 20 of the nation’s 52 state FFA associations had national winners.

Texas National Chapter Awards Texas posted its best overall showing in the National Chapter Award, with a record 18 chapters earning threestar ratings in the three-tiered rating system that evaluates a chapter’s program of activities execution. Texas chapters haven’t established themselves as strong contenders in this national award program as is the case in other award areas. The Weimar Chapter was on the national stage as a Models of Innovation Finalist, and while it isn’t first national finalist from the Lone Star State, it breaks a multi-year hiatus. Finalists for Models of Innovation and Models of Excellence are selected from the pool of three-star rated chapters in one of three POA categories: student development, chapter development and community development. National Chapter Award applications are evaluated by a state committee in June, with gold-rated applicants advancing to national judging held in late July and early August.

National Invitational FFA Quiz Contest Grapeland topped the senior division of the National FFA Invitational Quiz Contest held in conjunction with the National FFA Convention and Expo. Jourdanton was runner-up in the contest. Decatur finished third in the contest, and the team from Throckmorton was fourth. Texans claimed the top 5 individual rankings as well: Michael Cross of Decatur was 1st, Kathryn Klumb of Jourdanton was 2nd, Victoria Martin of Grapeland was 3rd, Monica Davila of Grapeland was 4th, and Kloe Burris of Jourdanton was 5th. The invitational quiz contest is open to all chapters and states and since 1980’s, has been held during convention week in or near the national convention host city. Chapters from 12 states participated in the senior division. Chapters from 16 states competed in the junior division which was won by Troy, Missouri, and Grapeland’s junior team finished third.

Honorary American FFA Degrees Eight Texas agricultural science teachers received the Honorary American FFA Degree at the 87th National FFA Convention. Tracey Blum of Howe, Rod Brinkman of Klein, Cody Lee Darby of Big Sandy, Rachelle Darby of Gilmer, Othela Ragland of Wills Point, Kevin Smith of Decatur, and Mary B. Wilson of Barbers Hill received the highest honorary degree bestowed by the National FFA Organization. Each year, a state may submit nominations not to exceed ten percent of the total number of teachers in the state. Other Texans receiving the Honorary American

VATAT News were Tom Acton of Katy, Dale Patterson of Tilden, Joel Rodgers of Amherst, Hon. Todd Staples of Austin. Also, receiving a VIP Award is Troy Selman of

Sealy Livestock Team is “Royalty” The Sealy livestock was crowned as champions of the 115th American Royal Livestock Judging Contest late last month. Sealy placed three of its members in the contest’s top ten with Clayton Schram earning highpoint individual honors. Indiana was runner-up in the competition. The national judging competition was held during same week as the National FFA Convention and Expo. Sealy, qualified for the national competition by placing third in the Texas competition in May. The state runnerup in the Livestock CDE has the opportunity to choose between competing in Kansas City or at the National Western in Denver. The third-place team is certified for the remaining contest berth.

Novice Parliamentary Procedure Contest A total of 35 teams entered the Novice Parliamentary Procedure Event this year. The team from Sandra Day O’Connor, a little chapter from the Great State of Texas was named The Reserve National Team in this year’s 2014 event. This is the first team from Texas to participate in this event in its three-year history. The Sandra Day O’Connor team also won the award for the best over-all exam score. Two of the members had perfect exam scores and the team’s chair won the Best Over-All Chairperson Award

Delo Tractor Restoration Competition Chevron Products Company, a Chevron U.S.A. Inc. division, maker of the Delo® brand of technologically advanced engine oils, lubricants and coolants, today announced Cody Garrett from Cuero, TX as Grand Prize winner of the 2014 Delo Tractor Restoration Competition for his restoration of a 1962 Schafer Model 18000 tractor. The high school senior was selected for the $10,000 Grand Prize by a panel of expert judges following presentations by all twelve finalists at the 87th National FFA Convention in Louisville, Kentucky. This was Cody’s second trip to the national finals. Matt Mahler of Iowa Park FFA took third place, and a $3,000 prize, for his restoration of a 1970 John Deere 4020. Matt placed in the top three in 2012, 2013 and now 2014. With 17,486 votes, Cuero FFA was voted the winner of the Best Video competition. Each Cuero FFA team member received a tablet computer. 2014 Texas Finalists

2015 SALE OF CHAMPIONS 35 years of championing young leaders of the agricultural community, the Fort Worth Stock Show Syndicate raises money to buy the

Celebrating

champion livestock they show at the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo. Since 1980, we’ve raised just

• Grand Prize Winner- Cody Garrett, Cuero: 1962 Schafer Model 18000 • Third Prize Winner- Matt Mahler, Iowa Park: 1970 John Deere 4020 • Best Video Winner- Cuero FFA, Cuero: 1968 Oliver 2150 • Best Photograph- Southwest FFA, San Antonio: 1958 Oliver 880 • John Michael Grunseich, Bellevue: 1971 John Deere 5020 • El Campo FFA, El Campo: 1954 Farmall Cub • Shane Kirts, Era: 1967 Allis Chalmers 170

over $41.5 million for the youth exhibitors, provided

$1 Million in scholarships for 4-H and FFA members, and helped more than 7,373 kids pursue over

their agricultural dreams. For more information, please visit us online at www.fwsss.com.

5 COLORS

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VATAT News

INVESTING IN THE FUTURE OF RURAL AMERICA At CHS, we’re committed to creating a strong future– and strong future leaders– for rural America and giving back to our communities with our time, talent and resources. To learn more about how CHS is helping cultivate the future today, visit chsinc.com/stewardship.

chs4776_TexasFFA_Ad.indd 1

3/18/14 9:57 AM

VATAT News

FREE WNFR LIMITED EDITION

TRAVEL BAG

This holiday season, get the Justin/WNFR Commemorative Travel Bag free when you buy select pairs of Justin Boots.* • Official 2014 WNFR and Justin embroidered logos • Two exterior zippered boot compartments • Oversized 22" X 14" X 10" design • Heavy-duty 600D polyester construction with strong PVC backing *With the purchase of select Justin footwear, while supplies last. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Justin Cowboy Crisis Fund.

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FFA SUPPORTERS ENJOY AN EXTRA 15% SAVINGS La Quinta® Inns & Suites is the official hotel chain for Texas FFA Association and Vocational Agriculture Teachers Association of Texas! Save 15% at over 820 locations across the U.S., Mexico and Canada for Texas FFA members, families, friends and supporters. FREE Bright Side Breakfast® • FREE high-speed Internet • Pillowtop Beds Swimming Pools & Fitness Centers at most locations

“Second place is not an option. it’s blue ribbon or it’s medium rare.”

BOOK NOW: Visit LQ.com/FFA or 800-SLEEPLQ (753-3757) and ask for promo code FFA *15% discount is available at participating La Quinta hotels nationwide for FFA Members, their families and supporters. Offer subject to availability, advance reservations required, tax extra. This offer cannot be combined with any other discount or offer, not valid during special events or blackout dates.

wake up on the bright side®

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VATAT News

UPDATE A Time to Give Aaron Alejandro, Texas FFA Foundation Executive Director Christian music artist David Meece made quite a name for himself in the 80s through the early 2000s with more than 30 top ten hits. One song in particular stands out, “We Are the Reason.” The lyrics speak to this time of year. “As little children we would dream of Christmas morning and all the gifts and toys we’d find. As the years go by we’ve learned more about gifts, giving of ourselves and what that means.” As teachers, students and business leaders slow down to enjoy time with family and friends during the holiday season, what gifts can we share? Here are few extraordinary ones. Knowledge. Family. Natural Resources. Time. Stewardship. Tradition. Future. John Bechtel and a few other people wanted to start a camp for kids in Hong Kong. Hong Kong is a city where sometimes as many as 5,000 people live in a single highrise on one acre of ground. They wanted a camp where kids could get out into nature and meet God. They found out there was a company that had built a facility for one million dollars, and the company said they would sell this facility to John Bechtel and his group for $250,000. One of John’s colleagues said, “I’ll try to do some fund-raising on the side.” For three months he worked at it, but he got nothing. Everyone liked the idea, but nobody wanted to give. He received one letter from a little girl in Georgia named Melinda Holmes. She wrote, “Please find my ice cream money for two weeks. Please use it to help buy a camp for young people in Hong Kong.” There was $1 inside the envelope. That’s all they got. At the end of three months, the friend says to John, “All we’ve got is a dollar.” And John says, “Ok, I’ll give it a try.” Imagine this. He walks into the company and says, “Didn’t quite come up with $250,000.” They asked, “How much do you have?” He responded, “I’ve got a dollar.” They sent the offer back to the board where the answer was, “Well, if the camp’s going to be used to help young kids, we’ll sell it to you for a dollar.” That dollar is framed now in the camp as a reminder of what God can do when somebody is believes and wants to invest in others. As of today, over 1,000,000 kids have attended this camp. Later in life, John happened to be at a church where he was telling this story, and a young woman came up

to him afterwards and said, “I was that little girl.” It was Melinda Holmes. He asked Melinda, “Would you like to go over to Hong Kong and see what has happened there? She said, “Yes.” People were going out into the parking lot, but John called everyone back into the church and said, We’re going to take a second offering. They raised enough money to fly her over. Melinda walked through the camp, saw what God had done, and tears flowed. One Little girl. One dollar. Well done, good and faithful servant. Let’s live a legacy this holiday season and give the largest gift you can give. The future to those who will follow in our Texas FFA steps.

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VATAT News

UPDATE It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas Kelly White, Texas FFA Alumni President “It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas…” As I write this, the weather doesn’t look that way here in Central Texas. However, everywhere you turn stores and businesses are embracing the season; but Christmas is still weeks away! What a pleasant way to begin this month’s newsletter. Bah humbug? Most of us are aware that this infamous phrase comes from Charles Dickens’ loveable character Ebenezer Scrooge. In the 1843 Dickens’ novel, “A Christmas Carol”, the character Ebenezer is a coldhearted miser who despises Christmas. The tale of his redemption by the three Ghosts of Christmas (Ghost of Christmas Past, Ghost of Christmas Present and Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come) has become a traditional tale of the Christmas holiday in the English-speaking world. Scrooge’s catchphrase, “Bah, humbug!” is often used to express disgust with many of the modern Christmas traditions. Have you ever experienced this “Bah humbug” feeling outside of the Christmas Holidays? Perhaps it hit the first day of school when you noticed that the counselor has scheduled 38 students in your ag mechanics class. Perhaps it occurred when that LDE team that you had such high hopes of going to state froze up in front of the judges. Maybe when your wife reminds you that you have to attend a Christmas party when you would rather stay at home watching “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” and cheer on the Grinch. It is a good bet that we have all had moments like that. A Christmas tradition around our house is to sing the song “Happy Holidays” when we ARE NOT in the Christmas spirit. For example, when you are in a busy parking lot and another vehicle drives in front of you and takes the parking spot that you had been patiently waiting for. Or when a rude person cuts in front of you as you are waiting in the check-out line. Singing “Happy Holidays” sometimes helps ease the situation. You should give it a try! My Christmas wish to you is that you may overcome the “Bah Humbugs” and the negative things that can ruin, not just our holidays but, every day. Scrooge embraced the redemption of the three ghost; and so can we. Do not dwell on the negative. Enjoy your Christmas presents.

Count your blessings and look forward to Christmas. Remember those wonderful memories of Christmas’ past. But more importantly remember the Christmas past that brought three wise men, not ghost, to a small stable in Bethlehem. Remember the night that gave the world the best CHRISTmas present that we will ever know. Merry Christmas from the “White House” of Kelly, Glynda & Kelsey White.

Dues Information Remember Alumni Dues have changed this year: • National FFA Alumni dues are $10 per member or $100 for affiliation dues. • Texas FFA Alumni dues are $5 per member or $100 for affiliation dues. This was voted upon by the Texas FFA Alumni Council on October 28, 2014. • Affiliation is ALL local members. • 10 members constitute an ‘Active FFA Alumni Affiliate.” • Dues are paid through your AgCN account.

Merry Christmas From the Texas FFA Alumni

VATAT News

UPDATE Notes From the Executive Secretary Don Beene, Texas Young Farmers Executive Secretary Please see the Texas Young Farmers State Convention registration form on page 15. I encourage everyone to attend this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s event in Bryan, Texas. Also, please see the proposed changes to the Texas Young Farmers constitution on page 14. Our state association has decreased in size and we have several areas that do not have state officers. This is a very important change.

Texas Young Farmers State Convention Terry Hausenfluck, Host Committee Co-Chair

State Convention planning continues to progress. Our committee has learned a lot in this planning process. We urge all Young Farmer chapters across the state to give this convention a strong look. We also urge those of you who have participated in state conventions in the past to come and bring new members. Our tours on Friday will include four mini tours in downtown Bryan. The state of Texasâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; only active Carnegie Library built in 1903, Catalena Hatters, Brazos Glassworks and the Chocolate Gallery. Headquarters hotel is the Best Western Atrea. Convention pricing is good thru December 21. You must call the hotel and book for convention dates. We have several workshops planned for Saturday afternoon. Brush Control and Integrated Fly Control on Livestock presented by Dr. Bill Lazenby from Producers Cooperative in Bryan will each carry one hour CEU credit. We believe that the current board has set up a lot of time for education as well as social interaction time for all members. The success of this convention hinges on participation. See you in Aggieland!

VATAT News

Proposed Changes to the Texas Young Farmer Constitution: Presented by the Bryan Young Farmer Chapter 9/26/14, acknowledged by the State Board and modified at the State Board meeting 11/1/14 Article IV-Officers Section B: State Officers-Each agricultural science area in Texas having at least one active chapter shall select one young farmer to serve as state officer. State officers shall serve a term of two years. No state officer may serve more than two consecutive twoyear terms in succession. Each even numbered area shall elect one state officer in even numbered years to serve two years, and each odd numbered area shall elect one state officer in odd numbered years to serve two years. Each are shall determine how its area officer is selected. Proposed Change Section B: State Officers - Each agricultural science area in Texas having at least one active chapter shall select one young farmer to serve as State Officer. State Officers shall serve a term of two years. No State Officer may serve more than two consecutive twoyear terms in succession with the exception of President-Elect. Each even numbered Area shall elect one State Officer in even numbered years to serve two years, and each odd numbered Area shall elect one State Officer in odd numbered years to serve two years. Each Area shall determine how its Area Officer is selected. The provisions in this paragraph dealing with the Odd and Even Area elections for State Officers shall not apply to the election of the President-Elect. If an Area is unrepresented on the State Board, a member in good standing from any Area shall be elected to fill the vacancy as a State Officer at Large. Any such member willing to be a State Officer at Large shall appear before the delegates at the State Convention and be elected by a majority vote. The State Officer at Large shall serve a two year term and may serve no more than two consecutive two year terms. In the event a previously unrepresented Area obtains a State Officer after the election of a State Officer at Large, then the newly obtained State Officer for that Area shall serve as a State Officer along with the State Officer at Large till completion of the two-year term of the State Officer at large position. a. President: The President shall serve a one year term. The President shall have served the previous year as President-Elect. Proposed Change a. President: The President shall serve a one-year term. The President shall have served the previous year as President-Elect. The President shall represent the State Association and not an Area Association.

b. President-Elect: The assembled delegates at the state convention shall elect a President-Elect for a one year term. The President-Elect shall have served the previous year as a state officer. Qualified officers desiring to be considered for PresidentElect will be permitted to appear before the delegates. Proposed Change b. President-Elect: The assembled delegates at the State Convention shall elect a President-Elect for a one-year term whom has served the previous year as a State Officer. Qualified officers desiring to be considered for President-Elect will be permitted to appear before the delegates at the State Convention. The President-Elect shall represent the State Association and not an Area Association. The Area in which the President-Elect is elected from shall elect a member to serve as their representative on the State Board. c. Vice-Presidents: The remaining officers shall be called VicePresidents. The officers shall elect from the Vice-Presidents individuals to serve the duties of first vice president, secretary, treasurer and reporter. Proposed Change c. Vice-Presidents: The remaining State Officers shall be called Vice Presidents. The State Officers shall elect from the VicePresidents an individual to serve the duties of Secretary/Treasurer. d. Filling Vacancies: If for any reason an officer cannot complete his or her term, the area from which the vacancy occurs shall select a replacement. The chapter, in which the officer was a member, providing it is in good standing, shall designate someone to serve until such time as the area fills the vacancy. In the case of presidential vacancy, the current president-elect shall assume the office of president. Any other office vacancy shall be filled according to Article IV, Section B, 2. Proposed Change d. Filling Vacancies: If for any reason a State Officer cannot complete his or her term, the Area from which the vacancy occurs shall select a replacement. The chapter, in which the State Officer was a member, providing it is in good standing, shall designate someone to serve until such time as the Area fills the vacancy. In the case of Presidential vacancy, the current President-Elect shall assume the office of President. Any other State Officer vacancy shall be filled according to Article IV, (B).

VATAT News

2015 Texas Young Farmer Convention January 9th – 11th, 2015 Bryan, Texas Registration Form

Hotel: Best Western Premier-Old Town Center, 1920 Austin’s Colony Parkway, Bryan, Texas 77802. Phone: (979) 731-5300, Use Group Code: TYF15 or State Association of Young Farmers. Room Rate: $96 King / $101 Double. NOTE: The Hotel does not have On-Line Registration, you must call and reserve your room. Schedule: Complete Details at: http://www.txyoungfarmers.org/default.aspx?ID=4415  Thurs., Jan. 8th – 3pm – 5pm State Board Meeting. NEW: 7pm – 9pm Icebreaker and Mixer for everyone  Fri., Jan. 9th – Breakfast at Hotel, Morning Tours, Lunch in Downtown Bryan, Afternoon Tours. Dinner at Hotel (provided by TYF), Ag Olympics with additional activities.  Sat. Jan. 10th – Breakfast at Hotel, Delegate Meeting, Business Meeting, Sponsor Appreciation Lunch, Scholarship Auction, Workshops, Awards Banquet and After Banquet Entertainment Registration Costs: Early Bird Registration Deadline is December 15th.  Early Bird Registration is $125  Late Registration is $150  Registration includes: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner for Friday and Saturday; Thursday Mixer; Tours; Ag Olympics and After Banquet Entertainment.  Friday Night (Ag Olympics) and Saturday Only is $75 before December 15th and $100 after December 15th.  Kids are $50 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Register On Line at TYF website www.txyoungfarmers.org If a computer is not available, You can mail Registration Form and Registration Fees (payable to Texas Young Farmers) to: Texas Young Farmers: 1694 LCR 256, Mexia, TX 76667 Early Bird Registration Deadline: December 15, 2014 Name(s): ____________________________________________ TYF Area: ______ TYF Chapter: ______________ Address: _____________________________________ City, State and Zip: __________________________________ Email Address: _________________________________________________ ____ Phone: (_____)______-_________

Early Bird Registration for January 9th - 11th Late Registration for January 9th – 11th Friday Night (Ag Olympics & Saturday Only Friday Night (ag Olympics & Saturday Only Child Registration (12 & Under)

$125 before Dec. 15th $150 after Dec. 15th $75 before Dec. 15th $100 after Dec. 15th $50

# _______ # _______ # _______ # ________ # _______

@ $ 125 @ $150 @ $75 @ $100 @ $50

TOTAL DUE:

= __________ = __________ = __________ = __________ = ___________ ____________

Credit Card Information: Number: _______________________________ Exp Date: _____________ Signature: ___________________________________________________________________________ 15

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February

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12th Texas FFA Board of Directors Meeting

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13th Texas FFA Foundation Board of Directors Meeting

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24th Day at the Capitol

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Officers Jack Winterrowd, President

Ray Pieniazek, Vice President

Shane Crafton, Secretary/Treasurer

Staff Barney McClure, Executive Director

Ashley Dunkerley, Communications

Karen Jones, Membership Services