CNA-SS-02-22-2016

National FFA Week February 22, 2016

Feb. 20 - 27, 2016

Page 2c— Creston News Advertiser — Monday, February 22, 2016

Farm Bureau grant

The FFA today Developing leadership, cooperation and citizenship for tomorrow’s agriculturists - this is the main goal of the national FFA organization. For 86 years, the FFA has complemented agricultural instruction by making classroom lessons come to life through realistic applications.

The FFA is structured on three levels - local, state and national. A board of Directors and six student national officers leads the National FFA Organization. Together they act on recommendations from the national convention delegates and set operational policy for the FFA. The program division, FFA New Horizons magazine, and the National FFA Supply Service, located in Alexandria Virginia (headquarters) carry through the policies, and provide programs and services for the organization.

The national officers represent their members. A President, secretary, and four regional vice presidents are elected each year at the national convention.

State associations function within the constitution of the national organization, but also may create individual leadership, award and contest

programs. Chapters are chartered through the state associations. As on the national level, state officers lead their membership of the associations, and are elected by convention delegates. The number and types of officers at the state level may vary.

In Iowa the Iowa FFA student officers include president, six vice presidents, representing the six districts (North East, North Central, North West, South West, South Central, and South East Districts), a secretary and reporter. Each district is further broken down into 4 sub districts (North East, North West, South West, and South East, representing approximately 10-11 schools per sub district).

The heart of the organization is at the local level. FFA Chapters may be chartered in any public school with an agriculture education program. Officers include a president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, reporter, and sentinel. Additional offi-

cers may be utilized as the local chapter sees a need.

A Program of Activities is utilized, serving as a road map for planning activities and accomplishing desired goals. Each member is assigned specific responsibilities within the program of activities to ensure total member involvement. Wide-ranging types of activities are utilized to meet individual member needs and the needs of their community.

The FFA is structures into a degree program that rewards active FFA members for progress in all phases of leadership, skill and occupational development. The Greenhand degree and the Chapter FFA degree are awarded at the chapter level. State Associations award top members with the State FFA degree. The highest degree, the American FFA degree, is conferred on an elite group of members at the national level.

In addition to active membership (retain active membership until No-

vember 30, following the fourth National FFA Convention after graduation from high school), individuals can become members in three other categories - honorary, alumni and collegiate. Honorary membership is conferred on those individuals who have rendered outstanding service to the FFA and agriculture education. This degree is found on three levels: Honorary Chapter, and American FFA Degrees. Alumni membership is available to former members and other supporters of the FFA. Collegiate members belong to FFA chapters at two or four year post secondary schools and are enrolled in agriculture courses.

FFA is a vital component of the agriculture education programs involving millions of students since its inception, in 1928, located in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands, and the District of Columbia.

Union County Farm Bureau is pleased to provide Creston FFA with $10,000 to help fund a hydroponics laboratory system. Hydroponics is the process of growing fruits, vegetables and other plans without soil. The check was presented

by Jill McKnight, Union County Voting Delegate, on March 30th to FFA officers and FFA Advisor Kelsey Bailey. This money was made possible through a SHARE Grant application process funded by Iowa Farm Bureau.

Creston FFA Chapter will install the new hydroponics laboratory system in the high school agriculture shop for the purpose of growing produce year round to donate to the school lunch program, food pantry, soup kitchen, and elderly meal site. Plants started the spring will be transplanted to the community garden, which is managed by the FFA chapter throughout the summer and fall. In addition to food production, the hydroponics laboratory will serve as a hands on opportunity for agriculture education students, middle school students, and elementary students to learn about plant and food production.

Kelsey Bailey, Creston FFA and ag instructor for Creston Community Schools says she is following the tradition of agriculture education and lives by the FFA Motto, “Learning to do, doing to learn.” Her goal is to teach her students by bringing hands on activities into her classroom. Union County Farm Bureau is proud to support youth and education in our local communities.

Creston FFA members Wyatt Thompson, Zach Hoffman, and Macy Evans gratefully accepts a check for $10,000 from Union County Farm Bureau Board member Jill McKnight. The grant funding will be used to create a hydroponics laboratory for the agriculture education department at Creston High School.

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Creston News Advertiser — Monday, February 22, 2016 — Page 3c

Creston FFA continuing Leadership Excellence “To practice brotherhood, honor agricultural opportunities and responsibilities, and to develop those qualities of leadership which an FFA member should poses!” This is what our chapter members quote and believe is their duty, becoming a leader today so they are the leaders of tomorrow. February 16th marked the beginning of Creston FFA’s leadership career development event (CDE) participation for the 2015 year. The sub district event was held in Lamoni on the Graceland University Campus. Creston FFA was fully represented taking 9 contests.

Out of the 9 competing contest, Creston advanced 7 on to the district level.

Results from the February 16ths sub district event include: Savannah HartmanPublic Speaking, gold and advances to district; Brooke Thelen – Radio Broadcasting, silver and advances to

districts; Tyler Waddingham – Agriculture Broadcasting, gold and advances to districts; Gracie Russell, Caitlin McIlravy, Becca Ross, Maria Mostek, and Maddie Travis – Parliamentary Procedures, gold and advances to districts; Taylor Sorrells, Mykenna Hribal, Dalten Bierle, Alexis Baker, Kayla Luther, Chloe Hagle, and Nathan Pudenz – Conduct of Meetings, silver; Kyle Jennett, Jake Miller, Will Gordon, and Dakota Burgmaier – Chapter Quiz, gold and advances to districts; Nicole Haley – Job Interview, silver; Macy Evans, Mattie Wheeler, and Morgan Shawler – Chapter Program of Activities, gold and advances to districts; and Paige Parsons – FFA Creed Speaking, gold and advances to districts. The South Central FFA district convention will be held on Saturday, March 7th, at North Polk High School in Alleman.

Creston FFA participates in 9 leadership career development events and advances 7 to districts at the 2015, west sub district event, held Monday, February 16th, in Lamoni at Graceland University. Leadership CDE participants include: (front) Morgan Shawler, Maria Mostek, Mattie Wheeler, Macy Evans, and Savannah Hartman; (middle) Taylor Sorrells, Mykenna Hribal, Chloe Hagle, Alexis Baker, Dakota Burgmaier, Paige Parsons, Becca Ross, Caitlin McIlravy, Gracie Russell, Kayla Luther, and Maddie Travis; (back) Nathan Pudenz, Dalten Bierle, Tyler Waddingham, Kyle Jennett, Jake Miller, Will Gordon, Nicole Haley, and Brooke Thelen.

Creston FFA promotes hunting safety to Creston middle school 6th grade students Creston FFA partnered with Creston Middle School’s 6th grade TAG class to write essays regarding hunting safety. Students worked on the principles of Language Arts and the FFA’s Environmental Issues committee read the

essays. Two student essays were selected as the most creative and thorough in covering the topic of hunting safety. The two award recipients of the essay contest were Logan Hoakison and Connor Rink; each student received a blaze orange

hunting vest as the winning prize. Awards were presented at a special hunting safety program coordinated by the Creston FFA Chapter. Mr. Corey Carlton, an Iowa DNR Officer for our area was the guest speaker, he covered gun safety and

hunting safety rules. Creston FFA is pleased to partner with Creston Middle School and Mr. Carlton to help educate our young people of the rules and safety precautions needed for a safe and successful hunting experience.

Creston FFA members along with Officer Corey Carlton present two blaze orange hunting vests to Connor Rink and Logan Hoakison for their outstanding hunting safety essays. Pictured from left to right: Officer Carlton, Logan Hoakison, Connor Rink, Dakota Burgmaier, Will Gordon, Trevor Marlin, and Tom Steinbach.

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Page 4c— Creston News Advertiser — Monday, February 22, 2016

Creston FFA attends Iowa Ag Leaders Dinner Tuesday, March 3, 2015 Creston FFA joined Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey and many other agricultural leaders as well as state officials at a dinner to celebrate agriculture industry. Many FFA chapters from across the state of Iowa were in attendances and had the opportunity to show current agriculture leaders that FFA is preparing young people to take leadership and continue the advancements in agriculture in the very near future.

The evenings keynote speaker was Ms. Jo Luck.

Ms. Jo Luck has been the President of Heifer International since 1992, and served as its Chief Executive Officer from 1992 to 2010. Ms. Luck a global organization working to end poverty and hunger and care for the Earth, grew a $7-million budget to more than $130 million, and helped expand programs and projects into numerous countries worldwide. (bio taken from bloomberg.com) Ms. Luck shared with the attendees of her many travels and the opportunities she had to meet people and come to appreciate the many cultures from across the world. The bottom line, according to Ms. Luck, we need to teach people to give and not to just take. This spirit of giving

Farm Credit Services of America Awards Creston FFA Farm Credit Services of America, one of the nations leading agricultural lending and risk management institutions awarded the Creston FFA Chapter $5,000 to add to their new hydroponics laboratory project.

Farm Credit Services of America contributes more than $225,000 annually in sponsorship and scholarships to high school and university agriculture programs, ag leadership programs, 4-H and FFA. FC-

SAmerica also contributes to hunger initiatives, in 2013 FCSAmerica contributed more than $67,000 in donations to local food banks and organizations that serve the immediate hunger needs of their four-state territory (Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Wyoming).

Creston FFA’s hydroponics laboratory project captured both agriculture education enhancement as well as serving the community with anticipated vegetables

harvested from laboratory which will be donated to the Creston Food Pantry and Creston Schools food service. President Zach Hoffman expresses his gratitude, “We appreciate and thank Farm Credit for their support in helping us enhance the technology and learning opportunities in our agriculture classroom as well as helping our FFA chapter and members grow through agricultural education.”

Creston FFA members Brooke Thelen and Darin Hatfield attended the 2015 Iowa Agriculture Leaders Dinner, held on March 3, 2015 at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines, Iowa. Many industry leaders, government officials, and the Iowa Secretary of Agriculture, Bill Northey, were in attendance. The evening was an opportunity to celebrate the past, present and future of agriculture.

and receiving will make this world a better place to live as we are mindful of others’ needs and in turn they are mindful of ours. Ms. Luck was able to witness the spirit of giving and receiving through her many presentations of female goats and heifers to people around the world that were in dire need – through Heifer International she and her staff made a great difference in easing world hunger.

The Iowa Agriculture Leaders Dinner was made possible by the following sponsors: Agribusiness Association of Iowa, DMACC, Hagie, DuPont, John Deere, CoBank, Conterra, Hormel Foods, TriOak Foods, Titan, CF, Unilever, OCI Iowa Fertilizer, Diamond V, ADM, Monsanto, Kemin, Syngenta, Dow AgroSciences, Vermeer, Peoples Company, Faegre Baker Daniels, and REG.

Mr. Bill Messerole and Creston FFA Chapter president, Zach Hoffman, are pictured with Mr. Doug Dickensen Farm Credit Services of America representative. Farm Credit Services of America awarded Creston FFA with $5,000 to put towards their hydroponics laboratory project. Creston

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Creston News Advertiser — Monday, February 22, 2016— Page 5c

37 Creston FFA Members Attend the South Central District FFA Convention Saturday, March 7th, 37 Creston FFA members attending the South Central District Leadership Convention in Chariton, Iowa, there the members successfully participated in ten leadership contests, accepted academic achievement award honors, and represented the chapter in delegate sessions as well as accepted the a Supreme National Chapter award.

Leadership contests are an opportunity for members to gain life skills that are applicable to many careers in and out of agriculture industry.

Creston’s FFA Creed speaker, Paige Parsons, earned a gold rating and advanced to state April 20th. The top two participants in each of the leadership contests advance to state, Creston had many gold rated contests. Contest results include: Ashley Harris - Treasurer’s Book (Silver); Madison Skarda and Macy Evans, Reporter’s

Scrapbook (Bronze).

Eight of Creston FFA’s graduating seniors were awarded and recognized for their outstanding academic achievements during their FFA membership. Members receiving the Iowa FFA Academic achievement award include: Eight of Creston FFA’s junior and senior members have earned the highest award presented by the Iowa FFA Association, the Iowa FFA Degree. Members must meet scholastic, leadership, and financial requirements to earn such and honor through the FFA Association. The 2015 Iowa FFA Degree recipients include: Gracie Russell, Caitlin McIlravy, Wyatt Thomspon, Zach Hoffman, Darrian Fischer, Rebecca Watson, and Emily Gravlin.

Members will receive their degree certificate and gold Iowa FFA Degree medallion at the Iowa FFA State Leadership Convention in April

on the campus of Iowa State University.

The Creston FFA Chapter continues to be recognized as one of the top 25 chapters

in the State of Iowa by earning the Supreme National Chapter Award. The chapter has earned such prestigious recognition due to our

continued efforts in building our members, our chapter, and our community. Creston will be recognized at the Iowa FFA State Leadership

Conference in April as well as the National FFA Convention in October 2015, which is held in Louisville, Kentucky.

Thirty-seven Creston FFA members participated in 10 leadership activities at the 2015 South Central District FFA Convention. Members gained knowledge and skill in various real to life events that will prove beneficial to the members as they secure careers in agricultural industry.

Creston FFA and CHS Student Government take collection for Food Pantry Creston FFA and CHS Student Government partnered for the 3rd year in collecting non-perishable food items for the Creston Food Pantry. Students in each seminar in the high school were challenged to collect food to meet the goal of 50 items per seminar. As a fun twist there was a friendly challenge between the seminar classes with the winning

seminar receiving a pizza party! Over 600 items were collected and delivered to the food pantry.

Food insecurity is a global issue that CHS students take to heart! Often we focus our attention to the holidays to make the effort in donating to this great cause but in reality, food insecurity is a year round struggle for many families both near and far. Our

Proud To Support Our FFA Youth!

students at CHS know their thoughtfulness is something that does not go un-noticed nor unappreciated by those that this food helped.

Creston FFA members are pictured after collecting and counting non-perishable food items that were donated through the food drive co-sponsored by Creston FFA and CHS Student Government. Students pictured include (left to right): Seth Steinbach, Will Gordon, Kolten Phelps, Tom Steinbach, Dakota Burgmaier, Gavin Sickles, Paige Parsons, Macy Evans, Taylor Sorrells, Mattie Wheeler, Tessi Van Scoy, Jordan Moreland, Billie Fogle, and Mary Ott.

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Page 6c— Creston News Advertiser — Monday, February 22, 2016

Creston FFA Chapter named one of Iowa’s Best at State Leadership Conference Creston 33 FFA members along with advisor Kelsey Bailey, and chaperone Shelly Parsons, were among the over 5,200 members and guest who attended the recently completed 87th annual State FFA Leadership Conferences in Ames, Iowa, April 20th and 21st.

The Creston FFA Chapter’s tradition of excellence continued when the local FFA Chapter was again recognized as on of the elite programs in the state of Iowa during the 2015 State FFA Leadership Conferences proceedings held in Hilton Coliseum on the campus of Iowa State University. The Creston FFA Chapter placed in the state’s National Chapter Award competition earning a gold emblem award and recognized with the Supreme National Chapter award. The chapter’s application will advance to National competition this fall.

In addition, the chapter was also recognized as the state winning community development chapter in the area of environmental development.

Creston FFA was busy with leadership contest while attending the conference.

Paige Parsons participated in the state level Creed Speaking career development event earning a bronze award. The agriculture marketing team earning a bronze emblem, the team was made of Nicole Haley, Morgan Shawler, and Taylor Sorrells. The farm business management team made of Kyle Jennette, Jake

Miller, Logan Pettit and Jacob Powers earned silver rating at state. Two freshman members, MyKenna Hribal and Kayla Luther earned a silver emblem for the greenhand quiz contest. The team agriculture sales CDE earned a silver emblem, members participating included: Darin Hatfield, Wyatt Thompson, Zach Hoffman and Dillon Bailey. The chapter display earned a bronze emblem; Becca Ross, Mitchel Swank, and Jordan Moreland created this year’s state chapter display. Members participated in 2 new contests this year, biotechnology and poultry evaluation. The biotechnology team consisted of Chad Lamb, Tyson Tucker, Kaden Wilson, and Will Gordon, they earned a bronze emblem and the poultry evaluation team consisted of Madison Skarda, Mattie Wheeler, Macy Evans, and Tyler Waddingham, the team earned a silver emblem.

Individual FFA members were recognized and awarded for their outstanding leadership, SAE projects, and classroom achievement.

Brooke Thelen was named the state winning proficiency in Equine Science Entrepreneurship; her proficiency has advanced to the national level. Brooke has an outstanding equine training and lessons business as well as competes in many barrelracing events all of which she documents as her SAE in her record book.

Eight local FFA members

Heartland set up packaging tables on the floor of Hilton Coliseum, where thousands of FFA members packaged over 260,000 meals to give to the food insecure.

Such meals will be shipped throughout the world and domestically to aid in fighting the global food insecurity epidemic. The Creston FFA Chapter was assigned the duty to assist in the clean up and load out of the 260,000

meals. Creston FFA members look forward to helping with the annual project, Chad Lamb states, “I like helping with Meals from the Heartland, it makes you feel good to know you are helping others.”

Other member involvement saw Brooke Thelen and Savannah Hartman serve as state delegates voting on all official business and state officer elections.

Darrian Fischer (center) is pictured receiving the Supreme National Chapter Award, only the top 25 chapters in the state of Iowa receive this award. Creston FFA will be recognized at the National FFA Convention this fall.

Brooke Thelen is pictured on stage at the 87th Iowa FFA State Leadership Conference accepting her state winning plaque for Equine Science Proficiency; Brooke’s proficiency has advanced to the national level.

Caitlin McIlravy (center) is pictured receiving the Community Development Award; Creston FFA was awarded the state winning community development award in the area of environmental development.

were awarded the Iowa FFA Degree during the convention proceedings. This degree is the highest honor the Iowa FFA Association bestows upon its membership.

Recipients of this honor must put forth great effort through involvement in course work, leadership, and SAE achievement. Those earning their

Jake Miller and Kyle Jennett are pictured helping re-fill the packaging stations at Meals From the Heartland philanthropy project at the Iowa FFA State Leadership Conference; 260,000 meals were packaged this year.

Iowa FFA Degrees include: Gracie Russell, Caitlin McIlravy, Zach Hoffman, Wyatt Thompson, Darrian Fischer, Emily Gravlin, Maria Mostek, and Rebecca Watson.

All Creston FFA members participated in the Iowa FFA’s state philanthropy project while attending the convention. Meals from the

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Creston News Advertiser — Monday, February 22, 2016 — Page 7c

South Central FFA Chapters host over 400 members Tuesday, September 22nd, marked the second annual FFA Career Development Events for the Creston and Wayne-Corydon FFA chapters as together they hosted this multi faceted agricultural assessment for the South Central FFA District. Over 569 members from29 schools gathered at the Clarke County Fairgrounds in Osceola to participate in 7 different events – livestock evaluation, horse evaluation, dairy foods evaluation, farm business management exam, junior quiz, senior quiz, veterinary science, and agronomy.

Career Development Events (CDE) provides opportunities for FFA members to apply their knowledge and skill attained in the classroom to situations that require evaluation and reasoning. CDEs

are designed to test members’ agricultural abilities that are pertinent for securing agricultural careers. The goals of the CDE event held in the South Central District included: motivate students to learn and practice techniques of modern agriculture; evaluate student’s abilities to selection, decision making, and communication; parallel classroom lessons to similar real-life situations faced by producers and agricultural professionals; practice proficiency in communicating using industry terminology.

Creston FFA Advisor, Kelsey Bailey, said “There is a need in our area to provide a venue such as the fall CDE day to get our new members interested in the contests as well challenge the skills of our older members.” Dan May,

Wayne-Corydon FFA Chapter Advisor, added “We identified the need in the spring of 2014 and hosted the first ever event of its kind in Iowa the fall of 2014. We had such a good turn out and response that we decided it would become an annual event for the South Central FFA district.”

To host an event of this magnitude takes a village.

Parents, parents of teachers, alumni, teachers themselves, students, organizations, and others that care about the FFA and it’s members worked together by securing livestock, assist with meal preparation, serve as group leaders, assistance in transporting members to contest locations, working in the scoring room, and serving

as officials all were duties of such volunteers. Volunteers provided the manpower while organizations such as Farm Bureau offered financial assistance. Many Farm Bureau groups from the south central district contributed to the 2015 Fall CDE event including: Clarke, Lucas, Ringgold, Jasper, and Marion. Region 15 regional

manager, Tim Prunty, was instrumental in contacting the county Farm Bureau boards to support this agricultural education event. From the Creston FFA and WayneCorydon FFA Chapters we thank all who made the day possible for the FFA members of Iowa’s South Central FFA District.

Fall CDE senior horse judging: Members of the Fall CDE junior horse judging: Members of the senior horse judging Jordan Moreland, Kelsey Watson, and junior horse judging team are Devon Buls, Grace Root, Cade Taylor Sorrells.

Vicker and Sophia Groumoutis.

Fall CDE group:

It takes many members to judge in multiple events but it takes even more when you are co-sponsoring the event. Members pictured either participated in contests or assisted in helping with the contests or provided animals.

Members include: (row 1) Shannon Bierle, Jordan Moreland, Sophia Groumoutis, Dalten Bierle, Cade Vicker, and Wyatt Thompson; (row 2) Laura Weis, Micha Stephens, Grace Root, Gracie Russell, Macy Evans, Bree Ross, Paige Parsons; (row Fall CDE senior livestock judging: Members Fall CDE junior livestock judging: The junior 3) Olivia Hartman, Kelsey Watson, Devon Buls, Hank Looney, of the senior livestock judging team included: Kaden Wilson, livestock judging team earned 2nd place at the Fall CDE event.

Nathan Pudenz, and Gavin Sickels; (row 4) Emily Gravlin, Gracie Russell, Macy Evans and Wyatt Thompson. The senior Members of the team included: Micha Stephens, Laura Weis, livestock judging team earned 4th place at the event.

Bree Ross, and Hank Looney.

Rebecca Watson, and Kaden Wilson.

We are proud to salute our future farmers during National FFA Week

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Page 8c— Creston News Advertiser — Monday, February 22, 2016

“Amplify” marked the 88th National FFA Convention

Seith Steinbah, Darrian Fischer, Will Gordon, Wyatt Thompson, Olivia Hartman, Becca Ross, Jordan Moreland, Macy Evans, Zach Hoffman, Trevor Marlin, Cade Vicker, Paige Parsons, Caitlin McIlravy, Mattie Wheeler and Taylor Sorrells know firsthand why “Amplify” was the theme for the 88th National FFA Convention in Louisville, Kentucky.

The convention’s theme symbolized the agricultural education organization’s mission to spark the passion and purpose to prepare students for success throughout their lives. More than 66,000 FFA members, advisors, supporters, and guests were in attendance at the annual convention held October 28th thru October 31st.

The Creston FFA Chapter again was recognized as a Supreme chapter and ranked in the 25 top chapter in the state of Iowa for its outstanding efforts in promoting and working toward the development of its members, chapter, and community by developing individual and cooperative activities that enhanced its members’ life skills; promoting its ability to develop a positive image, and interaction with support groups through cooperative and organized activities; and its developed community partnership in improving economic, environmental and human resources.

The chapter stressed the

development of its members, chapter, and community through a wide variety of projects.

During the past school year the chapter conducted locally, attended leadership workshops and conventions, participated in over a dozen judging events, and had members compete in contests above the local level.

Chapter activities Make Creston Green, and Christmas holiday activities have been identified as programs assisting in Creston FFA’s success in being recognized as one of Iowa’s top 25 chapters. It’s Christmas holiday activities, including the CHS student body, involved purchasing presents for children, the collection of toys, and canned goods. The canned goods and toys were given to the community pantry for distribution during the holiday season.

During the past school year, the chapter conducted a number of safety activities involving hundreds of area youth. Safety programs included its annual Bicycle Safety Program and rodeo where helmets were provided to participating youth as well as Hunter Safety and Halloween Safety program presentations were presented. The chapter also assisted with elementary counselors in conducting a “Red Ribbon Week” Drug Safety Awareness program for the school’s elementary

students.

Members attending were also involved in several national leadership workshops, which provided opportunities for personal growth and leadership development.

Convention participants also had the opportunity to listen to Dr. Rick Rigsby from Texas A&M University, who spoke first hand of learning from those that surrounding you, including parents and teachers. Members learned from Dr. Rigsby that lessons gained throughout life are valuable and need to be passed down from generation to generation and youth need to respect those that have gone before them as they have a wealth of knowledge to share.

Future education and career exploration also was a key component of the convention. Students attending visited hundreds of exhibitors that provided information about educational and career possibilities held at the concurrent National FFA Alumni Convention and the National Agricultural Career Show.

In addition to Convention highlights, members also embarked on what it means to add value to raw agricultural commodities and entrepreneurial opportunities in small town business. Members toured a locally owned marshmallow business, 240 Sweet, where they owners create and produce a wide

variety of flavored gourmet marshmallows. There the members were embedded in the full process of making the marshmallows from measuring ingredients to the final step in cutting and powdering the marshmallows.

Members also toured the small town business of Not Just Popcorn, where Carol, the 70 plus year old owner operates a gourmet popcorn company that has over 400 popcorn flavors that are shipped all over the world.

Here member learned the difference between a mushroom and snowflake variety of popcorn and found out that mushroom popcorn can only be grown in Nebraska – and that’s the law! The tours provided first hand insight on how agriculture is truly a broad industry and there are many opportunities to start a career not matter how big or small the operation.

The last day of the National FFA Convention was celebrated by the awarding FFA members from across the nation with the American FFA Degree. The American FFA Degree is the highest honor an FFA member can earn in our great organization. To receive the American FFA Degree members must meet the following requirements: 1) received their state degree and have been an FFA member for 3 consecutive years and has participated in activities at and beyond the chapter level, 2) satis-

Zack Peppmeier earned and received his American FFA Degree at the 88th National FFA Convention held at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville, Kentucky.

factorily complete a secondary agriculture education program, 3) have graduated from high school 12 months prior to the national convention in which the degree will be awarded, 4) have in operation and have sustained records for their SAE, 5) earned at least $10,000 and productively invested $7,500 OR earned and productivity invested $2,000 and have worked 2,250 hours in excess of scheduled class time, 6) Have a record of outstand-

ing leadership abilities and community involvement and have achieved a high school scholastic record of “C” or better as certified by the principal or superintendent, 7) Have participated in at least 50 hours of community service within at least three different community service activities. This year Creston FFA members Lane Miller and Zack Peppmeier earned and received their American FFA Degree a the 88th Nation FFA Convention.

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Creston News Advertiser — Monday, February 22, 2016 — Page 9c

FFA promotes Academics Advancement in agriculture education and classroom instruction makes one of the 3 circles of the agriculture education model.

Our commitment to academics is imperative for student success. The National FFA, State FFA and the Creston FFA Chapter reward students for their dedication and determination to academic excellence. In addition to FFA sponsored recognition, local organization, such as Union County Farm Bureau, also recognized students for their scholastic

performance.

In 2015, 8 Creston FFA members were awarded Academic Achievement awards from the Iowa FFA Association, these members included: Maria Mostek, Brooke Thelen, Taylor Pettit, Jake Miller, Kyle Jennett, Savannah Hartman, Bryce Briley, and Ashley Harris. Brooke Thelen graduated senior in 2015 was awarded the National FFA Kevin Eblen Memorial Scholarship.

Secret Santa success

Creston FFA sponsored a Secret Santa adopt a family drive this past December.

Secret Santa activities ensured 21 families would have a very merry Christmas with gifts galore! Families ranged from one child to many children with ages of just a few months to teens. Students, seminar classes, organizations, faculty and staff all helped in making the 2015 holiday philanthropy a success. Creston FFA members find great joy in putting for efforts

in bringing smiles to children’s faces and making what might be impossible, possible. Creston FFA’s chapter treasurer, Mattie Wheeler, says “We budget for adopting families each year but we can’t buy for all the families, it is nice that we have support in the high school to have so many families adopted.” Wheeler goes on to say, “Shopping for others in need is a different kind of shopping, it really warms the heart.”

Farm Burea Scholarship: Three of Creston FFA’s members were awarded a Union County Farm Bureau scholarship, they include: Brooke Thelen, Jacob Powers, and Tyler Waddingham.

Senior Creston FFA members Cooper McDermott, Maddie Travis, Becca Ross, Gracie Russell, Shannon Bierle, Zach Hoffman, Wyatt Thompson and Sydney Dunphy pause during first block class to load boxes of gifts for the Creston FFA Secret Santa philanthropy project.

Scholarship: Academic excellence is supported through organizations.

The Creston FFA Chapter is proud to have 15 members recognized by Creston High School National Honor Society.

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Page 10c— Creston News Advertiser — Monday, February 22, 2016

Local Chapter History

Vocational Agriculture, now called ASTM (Agriculture Science, Technology & Marketing) began in 1917 when Congress passed the Smith Hughes Act and in 1928 the FFA organization was established.

It was not until 1951 that the FFA became a part of the Creston Community School system.

From its inception the Creston FFA Chapter has grown. Initially the program was located in a small room at the old high school, but by 1969 the enrollment of 58 students had outgrown its small facility. That year the ground was broken for a new facility on the corner of Swan and Pine streets.

Evert C. Hunsicker was the instructor at that time.

After Hunsicker’s retirement in 1977, Galen R. Zumbach became the sixth FFA advisor to work in the Creston Community School System until his retirement in 2010. Kelsey Bailey became the seventh FFA Advisor to head the Creston FFA program when she began her duties in the 201011 school year. Today the Creston FFA membership has become one of the top programs in the state of Iowa and the nation with a membership of 85 students.

The Creston FFA Chapter was recognized nationally for thirteen years in Building Our American Communities winning state and national

competition in 1993 and state competition in 1994.

After twenty-three years the BOAC program was discontinued in 1995. During the past sixteen years the Creston FFA Chapter has been recognized as one of the nation’s top programs in the FFA’s National Chapter Award Program competition. Since 1986 the Creston FFA membership won state competition in the National Chapter Safety Award Program six times (1990, 1991, 1993, 1994, 1995, and 1996).

The Safety program was discontinued in 1996. Both BOAC and Safety are now part of the new National Chapter Award program.

The Creston FFA Chapter was the only Iowa chapter to be recognized in all three national chapter award programs areas (BOAC, Safety, National Chapter) from 1985 to 1995. These accomplishments led to the Creston FFA Chapter being named Iowa’s top FFA Chapter in 1989, 1991, 1993, 1994, and 1995, in what was then called Triple Crown competition, and as Iowa’s Supreme FFA Chapter in 1996, 1997, 1998 and 2006 in the new National Chapter Award Program competition. In 1996 the Creston FFA Chapter was only one of three chapters in the nation to be a top ten finalist in all three national chapter award areas (chapter development, student development and community de-

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velopment) being selected as the nation’s best in community development. In 1997 and 1998 the chapter was named a finalist in two of the national chapter award competition areas (Community Development and Chapter Development) winning in the area of Community Development for a second and third time. The local Chapter is the only chapter in the nation to win three national chapter award competitions.

In 1999 and 2003 the chapter was named a national merit finalist in Community Development, and Chapter Development, winning the community development award on the state level in 1999.

Nine times in the past fifteen years the local chapter has been named a state winner in one of the five chapter areas (Economic, Environment, Human Resources, Agricultural Awareness) found in the National Chapter Award Program.

The Community Develop-

ment Recognition Program was created in 2004 to recognize those programs in the state that most impact their communities in the following area: (1) Economic, (2) Environment, (3) Human Resources, and (4) Agricultural Awareness. The Creston FFA Program has won the overall state CDRP competitions in 2007 and 2010. In 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015 the local chapter was named a winner in the areas of either environmental or economic development on the state level.

Since 1977, 228 chapter members have received State FFA degrees. Prior to 1977 four chapter members received this coveted honor.

Terry Taylor was the first member to receive this honor in 1961 followed by James Jones in 1962, Raymond Wilson in 1965, and John Wolfe in 1971. Raymond Wilson and his son Chris and daughter Erin were the first and only father, son, daughter combinations to receive their state FFA degrees.

Chris received his degree in 1988 while Erin received her degree in 1992.

Other chapter members who received their state FFA degrees since 1977 were David Brown, 1979; Dan Hawks, and Larry Bailey, 1980; Dennis Leith (Star South Central District-production), 1981; Brad Anderson, Joe Moore, Mick Pettit, and

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Kevin Moulin, 1982; Roger Baker, Lori Hartsook, Kevin Eblen, Dean Leith, and Ron Skarda, 1983; Steve Weese, Tim Loudon, Steve Rhine, Thane Glynn, and Alan Weisshaar, 1984; Greg Ehm, Scott Pettit, and Rick Quam, 1985; Tony Clem, Chuck Denton (Star South Central District-agribusiness), Doug Fils, Brian Priest, and Ken Kline, 1986; Eddie Ide, Kara Frey, and Tom Woodard (Star South Central DistrictAgribusiness and Star Iowa Agribusinessman) 1987; Brian Smith, Sherry Sammons, Sean Dunphy, John Taylor, and Chris Wilson, 1988; Jodi Western, Scott Finn, and Kirk Francis, 1989; Alan Bennett, Derek Mohr (Star South Central Districtproduction), Matt Johnson, Rob Evans, and Shawn Kline, 1990; Erin Wilson, 1992; Ryan Mohr, Rod West, Ben Adamson, Andy Johnson, Matt Moberg, and T.J. Dunphy, 1993; Rick Reeve, Brad James, Jan James, Darren Long (Star South Central District Farmer), Jamie Travis, 1994; Brook Linderman, Chad Rieck, Melissa Baker, Brad Van Gelder, Nathan Pottinger, Ann Moberg, Michelle Saville and Shamus Stephens in 1995; Scott Evans, and Jake Tripp, 1996; John Paul Pokorny, Clint Travis, Amanda James, Clint Brown, Cody Purdum, Trista Ide, Kory Tanner in 1997, and Corey Bailey, Josh Sevier, Philip Moberg,

good state

Clint Hoffman, Meredith Baker, Mike Taylor, Curtis Hoakison, and Mandy Travis in 1998; Carly Hoffman, Caleb Hoakison, Nathan Studer, Levi Buxton, Charlie Tripp, Jeremy Ide, Nathaniel Jackson, Brian Bolton, Adam Travis, Logan Jackson, 1999; Jill Tussey, Dusty Brown, Rachel Bolton, Aaron Hoyt, Janelle Buxton, Josie Stephens, Matt McNichols, Trina White, Brad Crill, Casey Purdum, Chad Ide, Cody Waltersdorf; 2000; Adrian Richardson, Francine Jackson, Derek Quam, Travis Eggman, Kashia Studer, Blair Taylor, Alyssa Franklin, Clint Travis, Matt Raemaker, Nathan Katzer, Kelsey Hoakison, Cody Bailey and Matt Buck, 2001; Cody Bailey, Nathan Katzer, Cole Miller, Cody Frey, Mike Hilger, Cory Hoakison, Lindsay Loomis, Mallory Travis, Nick Tussey, Taften Kuhl, Kevin Lents, 2002; Jeff Baker (Star Iowa Agribusiness Degree Finalist) Mike Baker, Dan Martwick, Nick Schultz, Tyler Mahan, Sam Aleto, Michael Buck, David Schroder, Jordan Kralik, Ashley Studer, Chris Downing, Tim Jennett, Luke Baker, Matt Ramaeker , 2003; Sam Johnson, Jacque Jay, Megan Brown, Jim Ide, 2004; Austin Studer, Andy Jennett, Ashley Hartsook, Please see HISTORY, Page 11

better state

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HISTORY: Continued from Page 10

Laura Baker, Heidi Ramaeker, Brooke Peppmeier, Austin Berry, Justin Linderman, Jacob Schierbaum, Adam Leith, Sam Katzer, Damian Richardson, Tyler Wolf, 2005; Curtiss Bird, Eric Bradley, Caleb Brus, Judd Goldsmith, Jenny Hagen, Michael Hyde, Emily Ide, Jason Lents, Tyrell Miller, Steven Moeller, Steve Myers, Keith Peterson, Nicole Stoll, Cameron Weeda, Ben Weis, 2006; Alex Johnson, Kyle Thelen, Casey Frey, Jacob McGehee, Cody Pearson, Sarah Studer, Candace Weeda, Quin Leith, Jared Johnson, Tyler Harris, Adam Riley, Josh Maitlen, Abby Kinyon, Doug North., and Kyle Thelen (Star Ag Placement Finalist) 2007; Liz Beatty, Brandon Frey, Peyton Glynn, Rachel Griffith, Brian Katzer, Zac Leith, Pete Myers, Ayla Peppmeier, Todd Ramaeker, Daniel Riley, Alec Smith, Maggie Thelen, Nathan Vicker, Grant Wood, 2008; Colton Dunphy (Star Agribusiness Placement) Frances Myers, Ethan Harris, Seth Pals, Tyler Pettit, Kevin Irr, Spencer Bakerink, Mackenzie Pearson, Donovan Richardson, and T’Lee Ray, 2009; Isaac Sedlmayr, Brian West, Sarah Jennett, Chase Blazek, Haley Stalcup, Ashley Peters, Klint Craft, Chelsea Ekeler,

and Alec Paup, 2010; Brad Weis, Allison Wood, Mallory Griffith in 2011; Zach Powers, Theo Hartman, and Lanae Ramaeker in 2012; Adam Baker, Lane Miller, Zack Peppmeier, Jeremy Stoll, Cooper Bailey, Taylor Rice, Zaidy Frank, and John Gravlin in 2013; Darin Hatfield, Chad Lamb, Gavin Leith, Jake Miller, Bryce Briley, Brooke Thelen, Savannah Hartman, Madison Skarda, Jacob Powers, Kyle Jennett, Ashley Harris, and Tyler Waddingham in 2014; Caitlyn McIlravy, Gracie Russell, Wyatt Thomspon, Zach Hoffman, Darrian Fischer, Rebecca Watson, and Emily Gravlin in 2015.

Just as the State FFA degree is a good indication of outstanding individual programs, sixty-three members have gone one step further when they received the American FFA degree.

This degree is the highest honor the National FFA organization can bestow on one of its members. Creston FFA members who have received this coveted degree are Dennis Leith, 1984; Kevin Eblen, 1986; Chuck Denton, 1987; Ken Kline and Brian Priest, 1988; Tom Woodard, Chris Wilson, 1989; Jodi Western, 1991; Alan Bennett, 1992; Erin Wilson, 1994; Ryan Mohr, Darren Long, 1995; Shamus Stephens, Michelle Saville, Ann Moberg, 1997; Clint

Brown, Trista Ide, Cody Purdum, 1999; Mike Taylor, Nathan Studer, Philip Moberg, Nathaniel Jackson, and Cory Bailey; 2000; Cory Hoakison, 2001; Francine Jackson, Dusty Brown, Chad Ide, 2002; Derek Quam, 2003; Cody Bailey, Nathan Katzer, Kevin Lents, Lindsay Loomis, Cody Frey, Jeff Baker, Cole Miller, Michael Hilger, 2004; Tim Jennett, Luke Baker 2005; Megan Brown, Jimmy Ide, and Sam Johnson, 2006; Austin Studer, Brooke Peppmeier, Andy Jennett, Justin Linderman, Laura Baker, Heidi Ramaeker, and Sam Katzer, 2007; Jason Lents, Pete Myers, Cameron Weeda, Kyle Thelen, and Tyrell Miller, 2008; Quinn Leith, and Candace Weeda, 2009; Brian Katzer, Liz Beatty, Todd Ramaeker, Zac Leith, Ayla Peppmeier, and Maggie Thelen in 2010; Ethan Harris and Tyler Pettit in 2011: Haley Stalcup and Alec Paup in 2012; and Zach Powers in 2014; Lane Miller and Zack Peppmeier in 2015.

The Creston FFA Chapter has also been fortunate enough to have twenty-two members hold several offices above the local level with

four members serving on either the state or national levels. Kevin Eblen was named National FFA President in 1986-87 after serving the Iowa FFA Association as Secretary and President in 1984-85 and 1986-86 respectively.

Brian Priest served the State FFA Association as Vice President in 1987-88. Erin Wilson and Jan James represented the Iowa FFA Association as Reporters in 1993-94, and 1994-95 respectively. Ann Moberg served the Iowa FFA Association in 1996-97 as State FFA Reporter.

Dan Hawks became the first member to serve above the local level when in 1980 he served the South Central District as treasurer. Other members to serve on the district level were Steve Sedam and Brad Anderson who served as District Reporters in 1981 and 1982 respectively; Kevin Eblen, District Reporter -1983 and District Vice President - 1984; Brian Priest, District Reporter 1985; Kara Frey, District Secretary - 1986; Sherry Sammons, District Reporter - 1987; Alan Bennett, District Sentinel - 1988; Alan Bennett and Scott Finn, District Treasurer and Dis-

trict Secretary respectively - 1989; Rachel Kneedler, District Reporter - 1991; Erin Wilson, District Treasurer - 1992; Ryan Mohr, and Erin Wilson served as District Treasurer, and District Reporter respectively in 1993; Dirk Glynn, District Treasurer, and Jenni Wernli, District Sentinel 1994, Amanda James, District Reporter-1996, Mike Taylor, was elected District Secretary in 1997, and S.C. District Vice President in 1998; Caleb Hoakison, District Sentinel, 2000; Megan Brown District Sentinel in 2004, and Donovan Richardson, District Treasurer in 2009.

Since 1977, 253 members have participated in the state FFA leadership speaking contest areas with fifteen contest state winners.

They were Kevin Eblen, Tim Loudon and Rick Quam, Program of Activities - 1984; Greg Ehm, Mike Gilman, and Kevin Johnston, Program of Activities - 1985; Mark Swift, Brian Priest, and Tom Woodard, Program of Activities - 1986; Doug Fils, Extemporaneous Speaking - 1986; Sean Dunphy, Public Speaking - 1987; Derek Mohr, Alan Bennett, and Kirk Francis, Program of Activities - 1989; Scott Finn, Public Speaking - 1989; Kari Van Gelder, Loretta Harvey and Matt Johnson, Program of Activi-

ties - 1991; Erin Wilson, Jan James and Kory Borcherding, Program of Activities 1992; Wesley James, Extemporaneous Speaking, 1992; Jan James, Public Speaking - 1994; Chad Rieck, Lonny Miller and Nathan Pottinger, Program of Activities, 1994; Hilaree Freml, D.D. Moffitt, and Heidi Calvin, Program of Activities, 2000; Nicole Stoll, Andy Jennett and Laura Baker, Program of Activities in 2006, and Donovan Richardson in the Freshmen Creed contest in 2007; Haley Stalcup, Job Interview in 2011; Brooke Thelen, Public Speaking 2013; Maddie Travis, Radio Broadcasting in 2014; Paige Parsons, Creed Speaking 2015.

Jan James won the 1995 Central Regional Public Speaking competition and placed second nationally.

Eleven members have finished second in State Public Speaking, Extemporaneous Speaking, Radio Broadcasting, Program of Activities team, and Freshmen Creed Speaking competitions.

They were Kevin McGlothlen in 1981, Kevin Eblen in 1983, Tim Loudon in 1985, Alan Bennett (Public Speaking), Scott Finn (Extemporaneous Speaking) in 1990; Erin Wilson (PubPlease see HISTORY, Page 28

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Page 12c— Creston News Advertiser — Monday, February 22, 2016

CASE – Curriculum for Agriculture Education Curriculum for Agricultural Science Education™ (CASE™) is much more than just curriculum. In fact, CASE is a system of instructional support for the classroom teacher like no other resource in agricultural education today. The CASE model provides four major areas of support to promote solid classroom instruction using rigorous and relevant lessons to enhance student learning. The four areas of teacher support include curriculum, professional development, assessment, and certification. Each area contributes to the validity of CASE instructional materials by ensuring that teachers are properly equipped and trained and student learning is clearly accountable. This document will explain the components that define the CASE model.

CASE Background The call from Perkin’s reform stress that Career and Technology Education (CTE) subject matter should be integrated with science and mathematics while providing a structured sequence of courses. Educational research suggests that student learning opportunities are enhanced when the instruction provided is rigorous to challenge student thinking and relevant to engage active participation. Considering these aspects of CTE reform, agricultural education is po-

sitioned very well to prosper in our current educational system and provide students valuable learning opportunities in agriculture subject matter.

The National Council for Agricultural Education (NCAE) established a longrange goal for Agricultural Education to increase growth and quality of programs. To facilitate the development of quality programs the NCAE identified eight initiatives.

The third of eight initiatives calls for the creation of a curriculum model to establish a sequence of agricultural education courses that enhances the delivery of agricultural education.

The CASE project was established to provide a structured sequence of courses, but CASE also serves as a model for elevating the level of rigor and relevance expectedfor the new vision of agricultural education. Rigor of CASE is validated by thealignment of lessons with national standards for agriculture, science, math, and English language arts.

For connection of relevance with student learners, the CASE curriculum highlights the strengths of experiential learning, the heart and soul of agricultural education, by utilizing activity-, project-, and problem-based instructional strategies. To provide the technical guidance in curriculum develop-

Case 2: Students Dalten Bierle and Macy Evans and pictured observing the ligaments and tendons of a chicken wing. In CASE Animal Science, dissection is an important piece in teaching the anatomy and physiology of animals. ment using this approach, the NCAE sought out a partnership with Project Lead the Way, Inc. (PLTW®). A nationally recognized curriculum development organization, PLTW® has successfully designed and implemented courses based on the rigor and relevance philosophy.

Of the many strengths of agricultural education, leadership, experiential learning,

and character education are three pillars. CASE does not ignore the three-circle model of agricultural education that represents the efforts of over 80 years of practice.

Classroom instruction is enhanced to meet the needs of today’s agriculture students without sacrifice to FFA and SAE instruction. Both FFA and SAE are integral components of CASE as well as E-Moment® connections.

Teacher Preparation A CASE Institute is a professional development workshop to provide teachers training for the instruction related to a specific CASE course. Once a teacher has successfully completed 80 hours of intense professional development at a CASE Institute, the teacher is certified to teach the specific CASE course.

CASE Institute sessions provide teachers important background related to the pedagogy used in CASE curricula and practice teaching various lessons to prepare them for classroom instruction. Teachers are required to attend the entire 10-day workshop and CASE Institute instructors determine if each teacher is adequately prepared to provide instruction using CASE curricula.

The sessions are held in conjunction with a university teacher education program for agricultural education.

Practicing CASE teachers, called Lead Teachers, facilitate the instruction of the CASE Institute. Peer teaching and the development of a professional learning community during the course of the CASE Institute provides rich experiences for teachers throughout this professional development.

CASE has the potential to elevate any agriculture program to become a solution to school-wide dilem-

mas in meeting education reform mandates. CASE offers the ability to enhance core-academic subject matter and prepare students to be independent critical thinkers. CASE is able to achieve this because of the careful design of each activity, lesson, course, and pathway of courses. Deliberate design and attention to detail is found throughout CASE materials to support the teacher every step along the way.

CASE is much more than curriculum, CASE is a “system” involving a balance of curriculum resources, formative and summative assessment strategies, certification for students and teachers, and most importantly of all career-changing professional development for the teacher in addition to student career exploration and skill development.

Recently, Creston High School was awarded a $5,000 grant for the Agriculture Education Department. This grant will serve as the financial support for Mrs. Bailey, CHS Aged Instructor and FFA Advisor, to attend a CASE Natural Resources institute this summer. Currently, Mrs. Bailey is CASE certified in 3 courses: Agriculture Food and Natural Resources (AFNR), Plant Science, and Animal Science.

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Creston News Advertiser — Monday, February 22, 2016 — Page 13c

Additional photos: CASE – Curriculum for Agriculture Education

Case 3:

Jordan Moreland and Sophia Groumoutis are conducting a pore space activity in CASE Plant Science. The two students are learning the concept of pore space in the soil and the impact it has on water holding capacity. From this activity students also learn how soil can hold tightly and become unavailable to plants, the sponge serves as the soil and the water from the graduated cylinder is the rainwater.

Case 4:

In Animal Science students learn all of the systems that make up the anatomy of the animal as well as learn the function of such systems. Dakota Burgmaier, Will Gordon, and Ian Burns are working on learning how to take and read a blood pressure reading. Students made the connection that practicing veterinary medicine is very similar to human medicine. Learning how to watch for and take vital signs is important for ensuring the best possible care of animals.

Case 5:

While dissecting fetal pigs, students had to determine the length of the small intes- Case Fetal Pigs: Mattie Wheeler and Cody Tanner are pictured in the very first stages of tine. Macy Evans and Mykenna Hribal are pictures with their uncoiled small intestine. Students dissecting a fetal pig in CASE Animal Science. Students started their dissection at the mouth as gained hands on experience in following the digestive track and saw first how the small intestine this is the first place for digestion to occur, the digestive system was the first animal system that is small in diameter compared to the large intestine, thus giving the organs their names. was studied during the anatomy unit.

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Page 14c— Creston News Advertiser — Monday, February 22, 2016

Jessica Beatty Years in FFA: Favorite FFA Memory: My favorite memory was showing horses at the Iowa State Fair.

Future Plans: Attend Northwest Missouri State University and possibly study plant science.

Caitlin McIlravy Years in FFA: Favorite FFA Memory: My favorite FFA memories are going to state competitions and making new friends.

Future Plans: Attend Southwestern Community then transfer to Briarcliff to major in radiology.

Shannon Bierle Years in FFA: Favorite FFA Memory: My favorite memory was helping with the horse judging contest Future Plans: Attend Southwestern Community College.

Becca Ross Years in FFA: Favorite FFA Memory: My favorite FFA memory was being on contest teams.

Future Plans: Attend Northwest Missouri State University and major in sports media.

2016 FFA Senior Salutes Syndey Dunphy Years in FFA: Favorite FFA Memory: My favorite memory was being on the Beef Extravaganza team that competed at ISU in Ames.

Future Plans: Attend Iowa State University to major in Architecture and minor in business.

Darrian Fischer Years in FFA: Favorite FFA Memory: My favorite memory was the chapter party at Cedar Park after the highway clean up.

Future Plans: Attend Minnesota West Community College and major in relay technician and lineman.

Emily Gravlin Years in FFA: Favorite FFA Memory: My favorite memory was competing in the Conduct of Meetings and Parliamentary Procedures.

Future Plans: Attend Texas Tech for Animal Science/Pre-vet; and to compete on their Ranch Horse Team.

Gracie Russell

Wyatt Thompson

Years in FFA: Favorite FFA Memory: My favorite FFA memories are meeting new people at FFA events and getting to compete with my peers.

Future Plans: Attend Iowa State University and major in agricultural business.

Years in FFA: Favorite FFA Memory: My favorite FFA memories are participating in contests at State FFA and attending National Convention. If I had to choose one memory it would be when the suburban broke down at national convention and the boys were stranded on the side of the road Future Plans: Attend SWCC for one year and transfer to Iowa State and study Ag Business.

Creston News Advertiser — Monday, February 22, 2016 — Page 15c

Zach Hoffman Years in FFA: Favorite FFA Memory: My favorite FFA memory was going to the National FFA Convention sophomore year.

Future Plans: Attend Southwestern Community College for a year and then transfer to Iowa State University.

Madison Travis Years in FFA: Favorite FFA Memory: My favorite FFA memory was being on the Parliamentary Procedures tem in 2015 with Becca, Maria, Caitlin, & Gracie.

Future Plans: Attend Simpson College where I’ll major in Public Relations to go into the Sales & Marketing Field.

Cooper McDermott Years in FFA: 4 Favorite FFA Memory: My favorite FFA memory was hanging out with friends.

Future Plans: Attend Iowa State University and major in agriculture systems technology.

Rebecca Watson Years in FFA: Favorite FFA Memory: My favorite memory was was attending FFA State FFA Convention.

Future Plans: Attend Ellsworth Community College and major in Equine Science. After Ellsworth I will transfer to a 4 year college.

Page 16c— Creston News Advertiser — Monday, February 22, 2016

Agriculture industry tours To start the school year the 2015 school year, Creston FFA planned a trip to tour Kinze Manufacturing in eastern Iowa. This trip was the idea of a local farmer and was made possible by his contribution toward the trip. The tour of Kinze Manufacturing was an amazing experience to know that a large company came from very humble beginnings. Members learned

through vision, innovation, and meeting the needs of others, Jon Kinzenbaw grew his small garage based fix it shop to a multi-acre facility that produces equipment that is shipped all over the world! Members toured the factory, learned about good paying jobs and job satisfaction, as well as had the opportunity to see technology in action.

An additional field trip

was taken the spring of 2015 were member attended the Cow Calf Conference in Ottumwa, Iowa. The Cow Calf Conference was an opportunity for members to visit one on one with industry leaders as well as sit in on presentations that brought current agricultural issues to the forefront. In addition to presentation, members participated in a droan demonstration.

FFA fruit sales A long time tradition for the Creston FFA chapter and many chapters across the United States is the annual fruit and cheese sales in the fall. Over half of our membership participated in fruit sales. These sales support our chapter programming throughout the entire year. Supporters of our fruit sales assist our members in paying entry fees for contests and the purchase of supplies needed for conducting chapter activities.

Creston FFA partners with Creston local Hy-Vee and Fareway stores for our fruit inventory and partners with Harmison’s Fundraising for our cookie dough, candies, Becca Ross is pictured delivering a box of fruit to Medicap, and cheese items. we thank Medicap for their support in our trash bag sales.

FFA/Faculty Breakfast served Cow Calf Conference – The 2015 Cow Calf Conference was held at the event center in Ottumwa, Iowa. Creston FFA members attending the conference included: Paige Parsons, Shannon Bierle, Nicole Haley, Madison Skarda, Kayla Luther, Will Gordon, Chad Lamb, and Dakota Burgmaier. Members walked through the vendor show, where over 100 businesses and organizations had informational booths, as well as sat in on learning session, such as the use of drones on the farm and how corn becomes soda.

In May 2015, 10 Creston FFA Chapter officers catered a morning breakfast to approximately 30 Creston high school staff. The breakfast was served in the home economics room. Members provided breakfast casseroles, muffins and breads, fruit, milk, coffee, and juice. Creston FFA celebrates the end of the year with the faculty breakfast to thank the faculty and staff for all they have done throughout the year.

Members are pictured at the Kinze Manufacturing display room following a tour of the facilities. Members include: Hank Looney, Seth Steinbach, Kolten Phelps, Tristan Travis, Darrian Fischer,

Both new and retiring Creston FFA Chapter officers prepare an appreciation breakfast each spring for all faculty and staff at Creston High School. Pictured are the new officer team thanking the faculty and staff.

Committed to the Leaders of the Future.

Member FDIC

Commitment you can bank on.

Creston News Advertiser — Monday, February 22, 2016 — Page 17c

Did You Know – It’s National FFA Week February 20-26th Each year, FFA chapters around the country celebrate National FFA Week.

The week-long tradition began in 1947 when the National FFA Board of Directors designated the week of George Washington’s birthday as National FFA Week in recognition of his legacy as an agriculturist and farmer. The first National FFA Week was held in 1948. Today, FFA Week always runs Saturday to Saturday and encompasses Feb. 22, Washington’s birthday.

National FFA Week did not start out as a week-long event. At first it was National FFA Day. The 1933 National FFA Convention Proceedings records the beginning of FFA Day in this way: “Stewart of Montana requested the floor at this time to present a matter of general interest. He suggested the idea of having a special Future Farmer Day some time during 1934, preferably on one of the regular national FFA broadcasting days. It was pointed out that the various state associations could perhaps plan special state broadcasts also on that day and that chapters might plan their father and son banquets on the date specified. The idea seemed to meet with general delegate approval and after some discussion it was moved by Stewart that the Board of Trustees arrange for such a

Creston Freshmen get fired up for FFA

Friday is Flannel Friday! Last year many members participated in this fun and casual day. Pictured are (front) Macy Evans and Madison Skarda; (middle) Jordan Moreland, Paige Parsons, Gracie Russell, and Mattie Wheeler; (back) Chad Lamb, Darrian Fischer, Will Gordon, Darin Hatfield, and Dalten Bierle.

day; motion passed.”

Creston FFA plans theme days to celebrate national FFA week. Monday, member will wear their FFA t-shirts to school and we have special items for new members; Tuesday, members will drive their tractors to school; Wednesday is “Be a Smarty, know your ag facts” members will pass out Smarties candy at lunch, each Smarty will have an ag fact attached; Thursday PANCAKE FEED, Chris Cakes will serve all you can eat pancakes from 5:30 to

Being a freshman is an exciting time for young people and so too is becoming a new FFA member! New members are termed greenhands in the FFA organization, this level of membership is an exploratory time for our newest members. To start the greenhand members off on the right start, freshman attend the annual district Greenhand Fire Up conference hosted by the Indianola FFA Chapter.

The Fire Up conference provides opportunity for members to learn the meaning and purpose of the FFA. They learn that FFA although deeply rooted in production agriculture, has ventured to include a vast array of subjects and career opportunities. As they like to say “We are just about cows, plows, and sows anymore.” In turn, new FFA members learn to value the work of our forefathers in building a rich culture of land stewardship and also a mentality for progressiveness, always looking for better ways through better days.

Learning is key for our new freshman members but having FUN is important. At greenhand conference new members enjoyed time with new friends from other chapters in the district as well as fun with fellow chapter members. From games to challenging activities, the evening was entertaining and enjoyable. The new friends and connections made at the Fire Up conference will serve them well through their time in FFA as well as into their future.

7:30 p.m. at the High School the Heartland project held at Commons, it is a free will of- our state conference; Friday fering with proceeds going to is flannel Friday! the Iowa FFA Meals From

Tuesday of National FFA week has become known as “Drive your tractor to school” day! Members enjoy showing off their farm workhorse – the drive can be fun or miserable, depending on the weather and if you have a cab!

Six Creston FFA freshman members attended the 2015 Fire Up conference held at Indianola High School in October. Members are: (left to right) Maura Kinsella, Haley Walters, Billie Fogle, Tessa Powers, Jesse Vicker, and Kelsey Watson.

WORK with PRIDE

It takes hard work and dedication to be a farmer. That’s why we’re proud to salute the young men and women of FFA who have committed themselves to continuing this challenging and important profession!

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Page 18c— Creston News Advertiser — Monday, February 22, 2016

Creston FFA honors members at 64th Annual Awards Banquet

Savannah Hartman, Creston FFA senior member was awarded the Kevin Eblen Memorial scholarship, the Paul and Verna Bailey Memorial scholarship was awarded to Madison Skarda, and senior member Brooke Thelen was awarded the Terry Taylor Memorial Scholarship to assist with college expenses at the Creston FFA’s 64th Annual Parent/Member Banquet held Sunday, May 2, 2015. Hartman is pursing a degree in food science at Iowa State University, Skarda is studying education at Southwestern Community College and Thelen is studying agriculture at Northeast Oklahoma Community College in Oklahoma.

Special Awards: The Chapter’s sixth FFA Pride Award was given to Sarah

Thelen. Sarah was cited for their support of the Creston FFA chapter through their many volunteer hours. Thelen’s daughter, Brooke, is an active member of the Creston FFA Chapter.

Senior member Chad Lamb was named the chapter’s 2014-15 DeKalb Agricultural Accomplishment Award winner. Monsanto gives the annual award to a student that not only has an outstanding SAE program but also exhibits good leadership and citizenship qualities.

The FFA Distinguished Service Award was presented to Brandon Parsons of Windfield Soulutions for his involvement in assisting with the chapter’s community garden project. The chapter’s Honorary Chapter FFA Degree was awarded to Bill

Banquet Honorary FFA Degree:

President, Darin Hatfield, present Creston High School Principal, Bill Messerole, with the FFA honorary member degree. Mr. Messerole was selected for this award for his constant and continued support of the Creston FFA Chapter.

Messerole for his continued support of the chapter.

Contest Awards: Members receiving contest award pins and plaques in their respective areas were Savannah Hartman--Public Speaking; Tyler Waddingham –Ag Sales; Nicole Haley—Job Interview; Brooke Thelen – Ag Broadcasting; Macy Evans, Mattie Wheeler, and Morgan Shawler--Program of Activities; Paige Parsons – Freshman Creed Speaker; Taylor Sorrels, Nathan Pudenz, Alexis Baker, Kayla Luther, Mykenna Hribal, Dalten Bierle, and Chloe Hagle– Freshman Conduct of Meetings; Gracie Russell, Caitlin McIlravy, Maddie Travis, Maria Mostek, and Becca Ross, --Parliamentary Procedures; Mykenna Hribal, Alexis Baker, and Chloe Ha-

gle -- Freshmen Quiz; Kyle Jennett, Jake Miller, Nicole Haley, and Emily Gravlin-Chapter Quiz competition; Ian Burns, Mason Kinsella, Zach Hoffman, Wyatt Thompson, Trevor Downing, Tom Steinbach, and Trevor Marlin – Agriculture Issues and Perceptions; Wyatt Thompson, Zach Hoffman, and Dillon Bailey – Ag Sales; Madison Skarda, Savannah Hartman, Olivia Hartman, Nicole Haley, Darin Hatfield, Chad Lamb, Darrian Fischer, Macy Evans, Logan Pettit, Cody Tanner, Will Gordon, Trevor Marlin– Experience the Action; Logan Pettit, Jacob Powers, Kyle Jennett, and Jake Miller –Farm Business Management; Madison Skarda and Macy Evans— Reporter’s Scrapbook.

Proficiency & Degree Rec-

ognition: Brooke Thelen and Tyler Waddingham were recognized by the chapter for their outstanding Supervised Agriculture Experiences (SAE) and received a proficiency pin.

Iowa Degree recipients recognized included Gracie Russell, Caitlin McIlravy, Rebecca Watson, Emily Gravlin, Zach Hoffman, Wyatt Thompson, and Darrian Fischer. The Iowa Degree recipients received their gold charms during the 87th Sate FFA Leadership Conference held in Ames. Brooke Thelen was recognized as the top Equine Science proficiency in the state of Iowa.

Local Chapter Recognitions: Brooke Thelen received the SAE-FFA Member Point Award. Other award recipients included

Dillon Bailey, Salesmanship Award; Darin Hatfield, Chapter Leadership Award; Mattie Wheeler, Star Farmer Degree; Star Greenhand, Dalten Bierle and Paige Parsons.

Kelsey Bailey, FFA Advisor, thanked the parents and community for all of their support of the Creston FFA Chapter and its members. Bailey also addressed the members expressing her appreciation for their hard work, dedication, and leadership they have shown over the past year.

After the program concluded, the chapter distributed more than $500 worth of door prizes that were donated by local businesses.

Approximately 2000 parents, members, and guests were in attendance.

Banquet Distinguished Service: In 2015, Creston FFA recognized Windfield Solutions for their active role in mak- Banquet Eblen Scholarship: Savannah Hartman ing our chapter’s community garden a success. Pictured is was awarded the 2015 Kevin Eblen Memorial Scholarship.

Brandon Parsons accepting the award on behalf of Windfield Joseph Eblen, Kevin’s oldest son, presented Savannah this scholarship in memory of his father.

Solutions.

Banquet Officers:

Creston FFA’s newly elected 2013-2015 officers: (front) Morgan Shawler, Paige Parsons, Mattie Wheeler, Gracie Russell, Macy Evans, Caitlin McIlravy, and Zach Hoffman; (back) Trevor Marlin, Will Gordon, Darrian Fischer, and Wyatt Thompson.

Creston News Advertiser — Monday, February 22, 2016 — Page 19c

More photos of the 64th Annual Awards Banquet 212 and 360 leadership conferences

Banquet Star Greenhand:

The Star Greenhand award is awarded to a new member that shows outstanding leadership and involvement their first year in FFA. In 2015, two freshman were awarded with this honor, Dalten Bierle and Paige Parsons.

Banquet 2: 2014-15 Chapter president, Darin Hatfield, presents Sarah Thelen with the Chapter’s FFA Pride Award.

Banquet Taylor Scholarship:

Picture is Creston alumnus Barb Phillips, daughter of the late Terry Taylor, presenting Brooke Thelen with the Terry Taylor Memorial Scholarship.

Banquet Star Chapter:

Mattie Wheeler was awarded the Star Farmer award for the Creston FFA Chapter.

Banquet Scholarship: Creston alumnus, Gary Bailey, presents the Paul and Verna Bailey Memorial Scholarship to Madison Skarda.

212° – the temperature at which water boils is the theme for the Iowa FFA fall leadership conference held at the FFA Enrichment Center on the DMACC campus in Ankeny, Iowa. At the conference the focus was on taking students to the boiling point of leadership. At 211° water is extremely hot, but just one more degree gets us to the next level.

This conference focused on student development.

Students were challenged to push the limits. This year the conference specifically address the concept of virtue – what will it take to be a person of high morals and standards. Creston FFA’s freshmen members Taylor Sorrells, Jordan Moreland, Kelsey Watson, and Paige Parsons took on the chal-

Creston FFA members attending the 2015 212 and 360 conferences were Kelsey Watson, Jordan Moreland, Zach Hoffman, Paige Parsons, Kelsey Watson, and Taylor Sorrells. These members learned that the FFA is an organization that puts emphasis on the importance of living by and showing high morals and standards, this year’s conference was centered on virtues.

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lenge of starting their FFA leadership journey by attending the November 212 Leadership Conference.

The 360° leadership conference took Creston FFA members Zach Hoffman and Rebecca Watson full circle in chapter leadership development. The conference covered every angle for developing action plans for the chapter. This conference focused on chapter development and the theme centered around the concept of vision – having a vision for personal and chapter goals.

The 212 and 360 leadership conferences are sponsored by Syngenta, Crop Production Services, Helena and Willbur Ellis as a special project of the National FFA Foundation.

Page 20c— Creston News Advertiser — Monday, February 22, 2016

The Tree Tradition continues For many years, the Creston FFA Chapter has prided itself on enhancing the beauty of the Creston community by planting trees and has been recognized by organizations at the local, state and national levels. It is important to the members

of the chapter to give to the community now so that it will continue to be a beautiful place to live and not to forget, we have a lot of fun planting trees!

Mr. Galen Zumbach is an important partner in the chapter’s tree planting as

began the chapter’s tradition and continues to volunteer to write grants for the chapter to secure funding for the planting projects. Mr. Zumbach also helps find locations in the community that would benefit from new plantings and or replacements trees.

Creston FFA partners with Trees Forever granting program as well as Earl May to purchase the trees and assist with the planting design.

In the fall of 2015, Creston FFA planted trees at three locations, including: Bill Sears baseball and softball

complex, Graceland Cemetery, and McKinley Park.

The selection of tree specimens for the plantings are both for function as well as diversification. Diversifying the tree specie population has been a focused effort to avoid an over population of

one tree and run the risk of disease or pest out break, such is the case of the Emerald Ash Borer. A wide variety of deciduous shade trees and coniferous trees were planted.

Creston FFA members are pictured with officials from the Trees Forever Organization. Creston FFA has partnered with the Trees Forever Organization for many years in the Trees Forever partners with utilities companies, including Alliant Utilities. planting of trees in the community for utility and beautification purposes. Pictured are Creston FFA members who participated in the Trees Forever presentation held at the Creston Historical Complex May of 2015. Members include: (front) Kelsi Kautz, Chad Lamb, Wyatt Thompson, Darin Hatfield, Chloe Hagle, Cade Vicker, and Tyson Tucker; (back) Alexis Baker, Kayla Luther, Nicole Haley, Cory Marquart, Jacob Cook, Zach Hoffman, and Seth Steinbach.

Freshman, Chloe Hagle, and Jacob Cook are pictured putting the final touches on planting a deciduous tree at the Bill Sears ball field complex.

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Creston members give tree seedlings to kindergarteners Most people think of trees as having values that can’t be expressed in dollars.

They think of cool shade on a hot day, beautiful flowers in the spring, great fall color, or other, less tangible benefits. Some of the benefits of trees can be expressed in dollars, however.

According to the American Forestry Association, trees have significant monetary benefits. They have found that a single tree that lives for fifty years can provide $57,151.00 in environmental benefits such as reduced costs in air conditioning, heating, erosion control, and air pollution.

This is the lesson the Creston FFA members try to instill in every kindergarten student in the Creston school system when each student is provided a free tree seedling of their own to plant.

According to Creston

Pictured is Macy Evans handing out seedling to St. Malachy kindergarten students in the spring of 2015.

FFA Advisor Kelsey Bailey, “It is neat to get pictures showing large evergreen trees from students who received or planted seedlings from our chapter when they were little and now, as high students, are reaping their environmental benefits.”

This past year over 400 evergreens and deciduous

seedlings were individually packaged in peat moss and distributed to all kindergarten students in the Creston school system.

It is hoped these young people will plant, care for and watch how these young seedlings impact their environment as they and the tree seedling grows to maturity.

Creston FFA members Macy Wyatt Thompson, Trevor Marlin, Will Gordon, Kayla Luther, and Mattie Wheeler are pictured presenting to St. Malachy kindergarten in the spring of 2015. The kids seem very excited to get their very own seedling to plant!

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Creston News Advertiser — Monday, February 22, 2016 — Page 21c

Youth involved in three-day bicycle safety program Everyone can fondly remember riding bicycles as a child. However, most people don’t know that every year about 176,000 kids go to the emergency room of a hospital because of bike accidents. Some of these injuries are so serious that children die, usually from head injuries. This is a problem the Creston FFA membership has been addressing for more than a decade. In this time well over 2,100 young people have been taught the importance of bicycle safety and provided with a helmet they can wear when riding their bikes.

Creston FFA, working with the Creston Law Enforcement Center and the Union County Sheriff’s Department, presented their annual three-day bicycle safety program to over 200 first and second grade students in the Creston public and St. Malachy schools in May of 2015.

With the help of the Creston police, FFA members explained the importance of wearing safety gear and knowing the correct hand signals when riding a bicycle. Students received a coloring page on bicycle safety and were provided the opportunity to demonstrate how to properly ride a

FFA members Mattie Wheeler, Zach Hoffman, and Macy Evans present bicycle safety practices while visiting a 1st grade class. First and second grade students participated in the chapter’s three-day bicycle safety program. The local FFA Chapter and Union County Law Enforcement Center purchased helmets that were given to all first grade participants.

bicycle on a city street, how to use hand signals when turning away or into traffic, and how to approach various street signs on a bicycle safety rodeo course.

The Chapter was assisted in its presentations by local police officer Pat Henry.

According to newly elected Chapter President Zach Hoffman, officer Pat Henry was very important to the overall program’s success.

“The law enforcement always works well with the young people and are very knowledgeable about the bicycle safety laws, adding

credibility to our presentation and program,” added newly elected Chapter Vice Caitlin McIlravy another FFA member involved in the safety program.

“Safety can save lives if we take it seriously,” stated FFA member Trevor Marlin. “If we can get one youngster to look before crossing an intersection, our efforts will be worthwhile,” added Wyatt Thomspon who was a member of the team which presented the programs to the Creston area youth.

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Page 22c— Creston News Advertiser — Monday, February 22, 2016

Earning to Live……Living to Serve

Service, it is a focus of the Creston FFA Chapter.

Often times when people think of FFA they envision the FFA members with their individual supervised agriculture experience (SAE), feeding livestock, showing livestock, harvesting, planting, working at an agriculturally related business – any yes, this is the picture of the individual FFA member.

However, as a chapter we strive to serve our community and the people of our community.

The FFA motto is: “Learning to Do, Doing to Learn, Earning to Live, and Living to Serve. Learning takes place in the classroom (Learning) through instruction and discovery. Doing,

doing is what the members go back home and apply from the classroom their own SAE projects. Earning, members earn money or invest their time in activities that are agriculturally related. This earning requires members to take records of their investments and earnings, teaching financial responsibilities and personal management. Finally, Serving. Serving is the opportunity for members to work together or individually to make the world around us a better place to live. The FFA believes if service is a focus at a young age, then that need and desire to help one another will follow the member throughout adulthood. Creston FFA is a

model of excellence for serving the community.

There have been many service projects conducted throughout the year by the Creston FFA Chapter.

We start the beginning of the year off by cleaning a stretch of Highway 25 between Creston and Orient.

What seems like a very long stretch of highway is actually a quick task as our members many hands make for light work. This year, following our clean up, members gathered at Cedar Park for some backyard football, chili feed, and bone fire.

In the fall, Creston FFA also helps the CARE organization with Bright Eyes in the Park. A group of members is formed to gather

straw bales from the Creston Livestock Auction as well as tables from the Eagles and then delivered to McKinley Park to set up for the event.

Following the conclusion of the event, members load all the bales and tables and return them to the respective locations.

Although this is only a small part of the Bright Eyes celebration, the chapter feels good about their contribution and is happy to help such a worth cause.

The Christmas holiday season brings forth a host of service traditions for the Creston FFA Chapter. We start the season by helping decorate the downtown Depot for the annual lighted Christmas parade. In the

school, the chapter challenges their peers to take part in helping the community by collecting food donations, gently used toy donations, and adopting families. Our ‘Santa Can’ project partnered with CHS Student Government this season, both groups were thrilled with the turn out. Ove 650 items of non-perishable food were collected for the Creston food pantry! And what is most heart warming, they chapter and many of CHS’s student body and organizations adopted 23 families this Christmas.

Christmas is also a time for giving and what better gift is there than food. Creston FFA helps the Creston Christmas Basket Club in

the delivery and distribution of food baskets to the needy families in Creston and surrounding areas. The Christmas basket food activity is one of our members favorite activities. As Paige Parsons says “There is just this warm feeling that you get from this project that you don’t get other places.”

Living to serve, it is not only said in the Creston FFA Chapter it is practiced. Our members are community minded young people that want Creston to be the best it can be for all of us to live, work, and raise families.

Our members are the leaders of tomorrow, the service they do today will continue on into tomorrow.

Halloween Safety: Creston FFA members dress up in Halloween costumes to assist the officer in showing children what is safe to wear and what is not. Members pictured are (left Halloween Safety 2: Creston FFA members are picright) Brenden McDowell, Devon Buls, Tom Steinbach, Dalten tured with a Creston Elementary class at the conclusion of the Bright Eyes photo: Creston FFA helped C.A.R.E set up to Halloween Safety program.

Bierle and Ian Burns. for the Brighteyes in the Park Halloween celebration at McKinley Park. Members help set up tables and deliver straw bales.

Members pictured include: Darrian Fischer, Tom Steinbach, Chad Lamb, Jordan Moreland, and Darin Hatfield.

Decorate the depot:

Creston FFA members (left to Community Service Pedal Pull: The annual pedal Community Service Pedal Pull: Coordinating right) Dalten Bierle, Mason Kinsella, and Ian Burns work togeth- pull at the Balloon Days events held at the airport is always a all the excited children into categories at the pedal pull can be er to assemble one of the many Christmas trees that make up hit! Creston FFA partners with the Balloon Days committee to a challenge but members Olivia Hartman, Mattie Wheeler and the decorations at the depot. host this activity.

Macy Evans had it all under control.

Creston News Advertiser — Monday, February 22, 2016 — Page 23c

More Earning to Live……Living to Serve photos

Community Service Road Side Clean Up: Early in the fall marks our first big

service project of the year. Picture are members getting ready to clean up a 2 mile stretch of ditches of highway 25. As we like to say “many hands make light work.” This say was true this Community Service Road Side Clean Up 2: Mattie Wheeler and Rachel Shepherd drag their big orange bag along as the find trash to clean out of the ditches. year as 25 members quickly cleaned up the highway.

Community Service Relay for Life:

Cancer is something that has touched each and every one of our members, whether it has been family or friends. Our chapter had a Relay for Life Team where we raised money for such a great cause. Team members that are pictured Community Service Veteran’s Day Program: Creston FFA has been asked include: (front) Paige Parsons, Macy Evans, Caitlin McIlravy, Gracie Russell, and Kayla Luther; to assist with the Veteran’s Day program valet parking. It is with pride and pleasure that we can (back) Wyatt Thomspon, Max Eagan, Logan Pettit, Olivia Hartman, Zach Hoffman, and Trevor offer this small service for the great service the men and women of our country has given to us. Marlin.

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Page 24c— Creston News Advertiser — Monday, February 22, 2016

31st Annual Legislative Symposium & FFA Day at 1st Annual Legislative Symposium & FFA Day at the Capitol

DES MOINES, IOWA— FFA members from across Iowa converged at the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates and the Iowa State Capitol in Des Moines to build character and promote citizenship, volunteerism, and patriotism. Over 350 high school students wearing blue cordu-

roy from over 50 schools will flood the Iowa State Capitol Building in Des Moines on January 26.

The students visited with legislators, exhibited skills learned in the agriculture classroom and learned the importance of citizenship.

This was all part of the 31st

Annual Iowa FFA Legislative Symposium and FFA Day at the Capitol. During the morning, FFA members heard from leaders in the agriculture industry at the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates. Libby Crimmings of the World Food Prize addressed students about the

Senator Tom Shipley took time out of his day to visit with our members about leadership in our agriculture industry. Senator Shipley thought highly of the FFA members visiting the capitol and had a lot to share as he was once a FFA member too. Members are pictured in the state senate: (left to right) Morgan Shawler, Seth Steinbach, Jordan Moreland, Taylor Sorrells, Darrian Fischer, Paige Parsons, Senator Shipley, and Kayla Luther.

future of Iowa agriculture and the importance of being involved with statewide issues. The FFA members also heard remarks from Governor Terry Branstad and Lt. Governor Kim Reynolds about the importance young agriculturalists can play in the legislative process.

Governor Branstad signed the FFA Week Proclamation, declaring February 2027, the week of President George Washington’s Birthday, FFA Week in Iowa. The proclamation signing took place during a special ceremony at the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates fol-

lowing legislative visits at the Iowa State Capitol Building.

The 31st Annual Iowa FFA Legislative Symposium and FFA Day at the Capitol was made possible with support from Iowa Farm Bureau Federation through the Iowa FFA Foundation.

The Creston FFA Chapter had the opportunity to meet with newly elected Representative Tom Moore. Representative Moore explained the election process and shared with members about his experience running for office. Members are pictured in the state house of representatives: (left to right) Jordan Moreland, Representative Moore, Paige Parsons, Taylor Sorrells (seated), Seth Steinbach, Kayla Luther, Darrian Fischer, Morgan Shawler, and Mrs Bailey.

Touring the World Food Prize Hall was a highlight of the day visit. Members had the opportunity to hear about Dr. Borlaug, a famous agronomist and humanitarian that is credited for feeding more people than anyone else in history. Dr. Borlaug was a native to Cresco but his mission of ending hunger landed him in Mexico, India, and Africa. The World Food Prize Organization provides opportunities for high school students to address world food hunger issues and partake in conferences. Creston FFA member, Kayla Luther, is pursuing the processing of being accepted into the World Food Prize Youth Institute. Members are pictured in the presentation hall in the World Food Prize Hall of Laureates: (left to right) Paige Parsons, Taylor Sorrells, Kayla Luther, Darrian Fischer, Seth Steinbach, Morgan Shawler, and Jordan Moreland.

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Creston News Advertiser — Monday, February 22, 2016 — Page 25c

Creston FFA Livestock Judging Team Places 2nd Overall at Iowa Beef Expo Bright and early Sunday morning, 4 Creston FFA members tested their abilities in evaluating breeding and market beef at the 2016 Iowa Beef Expo Judging contest, February 14th in Des Moines, Iowa. Members participating in the contest evaluated some of Iowa’s top breeding cattle, to say the least members were looking for the small “stuff” to select the top animals.

Classes were made of either purebred or commercial beef, which included breeding heifers, and bulls. In addition to visually evaluating the animals, team members were provided with performance data, scenarios and EPDs (Expected Progeny Difference) to evaluate and place cattle to meet specific

situations.

Livestock is an important factor in raising and breeding livestock. Producers use the skill of evaluation on a daily basis for the improvement of his or her herd through selective breeding practices and culling management.

FFA members are learning at an early age through career development events such as livestock judging, in the classroom, and through their supervise agricultural experience (SAE) projects how to use selection as a management tool for proper and successful animal husbandry.

The Creston FFA livestock judging team will continue work and practice their skills as they prepare to participate in the Iowa FFA

Pictured are team members Macy Evans, Kaden Wilson, Gracie, Russell and Will Gordon at Southeast Polk where team members prepared and presented oral reasons over 3 classes of cattle.

judging circuit this summer and the Iowa FFA state livestock judging career development event in August.

The Creston FFA livestock judging team had much to celebrate, as they took home 2nd place overall team at the 2016 Iowa Beef Expo Judging Contest! The team also earned the 3rd place in team livestock placings and 4th place in oral reasons.

Team member Kaden Wilson was recognized as the 7th place overall individual, 9th place individual in placings and oral reasons. Over 200 youth and 31 teams competed in the contest’s youth division. Members of the team included: Kaden Wilson, Macy Evans, Gracie Russell, and Will Gordon.

The Creston FFA Livestock Judging Team brought home 2 banners from the 2016 Iowa Beef Expo livestock judging contest including 2nd place overall team and 3rd place overall team in placings.

Creston FFA competes in Beef Scholarship Extravaganza December 5th marked a first for the Creston FFA Chapter as 3 members competed in the Iowa Cattlemen’s Foundation Beef Scholarship Extravaganza.

Juniors, Macy Evans, Mattie Wheeler and Will Gordon tested their beef industry knowledge. These members were responsible for knowing and understanding processes involved in the beef industry, include: handling and health, nutrition, marketing, seed-stock merchandizing, job interview, keep-cull replacements heifers, reproduction, credit and finance, beef industry issues, and beef management challenge.

The Iowa Cattlemen’s Foundation hosts the

Beef Scholarship Extravaganza, which offers more than $7,600 in scholarship awards. This contest is different from a regular judging contest as it incorporates all facets of the beef industry, not to mention it is very challenging and takes many hours of preparation. Macy Evans what he has gained from the contest, “I feel like what I have learned through my experience in the Beef Extravaganza will benefit me in the future as I have gained a wealth of knowledge about different areas of the beef industry.” Mattie Wheeler adds, “This experience has made me realize how many job opportunities are available in the beef industry; it has sparked my

interest in pursing a career in the beef industry.” And Will Gordon said “From the contest I realized I knew more about the beef industry than what I gave myself credit for and I stepped out of my comfort zone by giving a presentation to the judges.”

The contest is open to junior and senior members; all members plan to compete in the contest again in 2016. The Iowa Cattlemen’s Foundation made the contest possible by securing funding from these supporters: Land O’Lakes Purina Feeds, Farm Credit Services of America, Iowa Beef Breeds Council, and Iowa Cattlemen’s Foundation.

Three of Creston FFA’s junior members competed in the Iowa Cattlemen’s Foundation Beef Scholarship Extravaganza held at Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa; members are Mattie Wheeler, Will Gordon, and Macy Evans.

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Page 26c— Creston News Advertiser — Monday, February 22, 2016

Creston FFA keeps busy at the Union County Fair

The last week of July is always an exciting and fun time for the Creston FFA Chapter at it is Fair Time!

Many the chapter’s members spend hours and hours at the fairgrounds, exhibiting their SAE projects, conducting an agriculture education booth during Kid’s Day, working the food stand, sponsoring agriculture Olympics, helping with the kids pedal pull, and hosting the livestock judging contest.

The Union County Fair is an excellent opportunity for chapter members to display the hard work and dedication they have had throughout the year in raising their livestock. Whether it is cattle or chickens, our members put many hours in properly feeding and caring for the livestock. Many of the chapter members have began and or expanded their livestock operations while in FFA. Members participate

in beef, swine, sheep, goat, horse, and small animal production.

What members acquired through SAE projects equips them with employability and life skills.

Our chapter has focused on bringing education and fun to the Union County Fair. We sponsor a booth at Kids Day that is called the “Ag Zone”. At this interactive display we focused on teaching about agriculture products and careers, as well as safety for kids when on the farm and around equipment. At the 2015 Union County Fair the members conducted demonstrations a gravity flow wagon, showing the children what can happen if you play in the wagon and when grain moves. We have also demonstrated to children the hazard of being in a grain bin and how if trapped in grain it restricts a person’s ability to breathe.

We have created a dem-

onstration using a 5 gallon bucket filled with corn and a balloon taped to a straw.

Children begin by blowing up a balloon, this is like their lungs filling with air.

The participant then tapes a deflate balloon to a straw.

The participant buries the balloon that is attached to the straw in the corn, they then try and blow up the balloon. When the balloon is buried in the corn it is very hard to blow it up, this gives them the experience of how a person cannot breathe if trapped in grain. Each child that visits the “Ag Zone” receives a free rural safety

manual that provides them tips on how to stay safe on the farm, it also includes and interactive DVD. The rural safety manuals are sponsored by local community businesses and are published by In addition to the “Ag Zone” Creston FFA also sponsors the livestock judging contest for youth and adults. This contest has been a long time tradition for the chapter and is viewed as very important learning tool. The livestock judging contest at the County Fair provides and opportunity for FFA members to teach younger kids,

and future members, how to use livestock knowledge and skill to evaluate animals. In FFA we call contest such as livestock judging a Career Development Event (CDE).

As always, the County Fair is a place to have FUN! To help create fun at the

County Fair, Creston FFA assists with the Kid’s Pedal pull. At the pedal pull the chapter assists the event coordinator with managing children, passing out ribbons and trophies, and best of all give out candy!

Members are getting ready for the Union County Fair parade. Members include: Wyatt Thompson, Darrian Trevor Marlin learned quickly how to show goats this Fischer, Paige Parsons, Will Gordon, Dakota Burgmaier, summer as he helped Mattie Wheeler in exhibiting her Jordan Moreland, Chad Lamb, Mason Kinsella, Alexis meat goats.

Baker, and Logan Pettit.

Creston FFA members Darin Hatfield, Dalten Bierle, and Tyler Waddingham are pictured exhibiting market lambs at the 2015 Union County Fair. Each member completed records on market lambs and serve as their Supervised Agriculture Experience.

Prior to the county fair, Creston FFA members were on KSIB Radio’s Grapevine program to promote FFA sponsored activities at the fair. Pictured are (left to right) Trevor Marlin, Kolten Phelps, Macy Evans, and Wyatt Thompson.

Thank you to our Creston FFA Chapter for their involvement in our Creston community Creston Chamber of Commerce 208 W. Taylor, Hwy 34 • Creston • 641-782-7021 www.crestoniowachamber.com chamber@crestoniowachamber.com

Creston News Advertiser — Monday, February 22, 2016— Page 27c

A little bit of team building for the Creston FFA Officer Team Each year the new Creston FFA Chapter officer team takes some time to get to know each other just a little better and learns how to function as a team. In the summer of 2015, the chap-

ter participated in an officer training at the Iowa FFA Enrichment Center, with was lead by the Rachel Kagay, the Iowa Enrichment Center Leadership Development Coordinator. During the

retreat the officer learned about their personality types thorough True Colors activities, worked together using verbal and non-verbal communication skills, and even tested their balance and trust

of each other on the board walk challenge! A fun morning led to a fun afternoon in Des Moines.

The remainder of the officer retreat was all about having FUN! The chapter

officers know they have along year of hard work and dedication ahead of them, so summer is time to kick back and have fun together. The team had a wet but fun afternoon at Adventureland

Amusement Park at Altoona and then took in a movie at the mall. We believe that hard work deserves a reward!

The officers must learn to trust and rely on each other. Pictured or members working on a challenge course where the must pass through a rope wall only using each hole once. Officer team members cheer on Zach Hoffman as he helps Caitlin McIlravy through one of the top holes.

All officers worked together in mastering the board walk activity. The purpose of this activity was to have all officers switch ends of the board without any officers falling off – so challenging and so much fun! Officers pictured (left to right): Trevor Marlin, Paige Parsons, Darrian Fischer, and Gracie Russell.

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Page 28c— Creston News Advertiser — Monday, February 22, 2016

HISTORY: Continued from Page 11

lic Speaking) in 1993, Gerry Miller (Creed Speaking) in 2002, Sam Johnson in Radio Broadcasting and Megan Brown, Jacque Jay, and Patrick Walsh (POA) in 2005, and Jason Lents, Nicole Stoll and Eric Bradley (POA) in 2007, In the official leadership speaking contests, the following have competed on the state level: twenty-two Program of Activities teams, eleven extemporaneous speakers, seventeen parliamentary procedure teams, nine Freshmen Conduct of Meeting teams, twenty public speakers, eight Freshmen Creed Speakers, thirteen Radio Broadcasting competitors, three Ag Sales contestants, and seven job interview leadership contests.

Other contest accomplishments, since 1979, include fifty-five members advancing officer books to state competition. The following placed second in the State Reporter Scrapbook Contest: Kari Van Gelder, 1991; Matt Moberg; Brett Moffitt, 2002; Candace Weeda, 2007; Rachel Griffith in both 2008 and 2009; Mallory Griffith winning tops scrapbook in 2011.

Trista Ide’s and Ashley Hartsook’s reporter’s scrapbooks placed third in 1997 and 2006 respectively. Amanda James, Francine Jackson, and Mallory Travis won the

Membership enrollment for the Creston FFA Chapter is 94 with 86 members being in school members and 8 out school members.

State Reporter’s Scrapbook Contest in 1998, 2000, and 2003 respectively. In the Des Moines Register Chapter Reporter Award competition Heidi Osche, Scott Finn, Kari Van Gelder (Kari also had the second place reporter’s scrapbook in 1991), Jan James, Michelle Saville, Cali Cross, Rachel Griffith, and Mallory Griffith were named the state’s top reporter in 1988, 1990, 1991, 1994, 1995, 1999, 2008, and 2011 respectively. Trista Ide and Francine Jackson were named the Iowa runner-up in 1997 and 2000. Mallory Griffith was the winning scrapbook in 2011. Amanda James, Taften Kuhl, and Candace Weeda placed third in 1998, 2003, and 2007. Haley Stalcup was named the top reporter in the ASTM/SAE Reporter Award competetion in 2010.

Jacque Jay became the first chapter reporter to place first in the ASTM/SAE Re-

porter Award sponsored by the Iowa FFA Alumni Association in 2004. Donovan Richardson became the first Creston Chapter member to have the chapter’s secretary’s book place as high as second in state competition in 2009.

Two hundred and sixtyfour members have advanced proficiencies to the state level with fifty-four state and three national winners being named. Brian Priest won both state and national proficiency competition in 1986 in the area of Soil and Water Conservation. Brian Bolton was named the national winner in outdoor recreation in 1998, and Andy Jennet won the nation in the proficiency area of Turfgrass Management in 2008. Other members who have been recognized as national proficiency finalists include Levi Buxton in Agricultural Mechanics/ Technical Placement, and Caleb Hoakison in Outdoor

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Recreation in 1998 and 2001 respectively, Michael Hilger in Environmental Science and Natural Resource Placement in 2003, and Tim Jennett in the area of Landscape Management Placement in 2004.

Other state proficiency winners include Scott Reasland, Outdoor Recreation, 1985; Chuck Denton, Agriculture Processing, 1986; Rob Evans, Agriculture Placement, 1990; Brad James, Wildlife Management; 1995; Shamus Stephens, Equine Production, 1996; Ann Moberg, Forestry Production, 1996; Brian Bolton, Outdoor Recreation Entrepreneur, 1997, Michelle Saville, Ag Sales & Service Placement, 1997; Levi Buxton, Agricultural Mechanics, 1998; Mike Taylor, Beef Placement, 1998; Philip Moberg, Outdoor Recreation, 1998; Cody Purdum, Diversified Crop Production, 1998, Brian

Proud to Support FFA

Bolton, Wildlife Management, 1998; Nathan Studer, Beef Placement, 1999; Tanner Kuhl, Forestry Placement, 1999; Alyssa Franklin, Sheep Entrepreneur; Caleb Hoakison, Outdoor Recreation; Philip Moberg, Agricultural Sales & Service Placement; Jill Tussey, Specialty Animal Entrepreneur, 2000; Taften Kuhl*, Forestry; Aaron Hoyt, Beef Production Placement; Matt McNichols, Agricultural Sales Placement, Cody Waltersdorf, Diversified Crop Production Placement; Chad Ide, Diversified Crop Production Entrepreneurship; Brad Crill Outdoor Recreation, Jill Tussey in Specialty Animal Placement, 2001; Tim Jennett, Turf & Lawn Management Placement, Taften Kuhl* in Landscape Management Placement, 2002; Mike Hilger Environmental Science/Natural Resource Placement, Cole Miller, Turfgrass Management, Taften Kuhl*, Community Development, Derek Quam in the area of Poultry Production Placement , 2003; Taften Kuhl,* Environmental Science & Natural Resources Placement; Cory Hoakison, Ag Sales & Service; Cody Bailey, Beef Placement; Lindsay Loomis, Swine Placement; Tim Jennett, Landscape Management Placement, Tyler Mahan in the area of Ag Sales Service Placement, 2004;

Andy Jennett, Turf grass Management Placement; Kyle Thelen, Outdoor Recreation Entrepreneurship; Tyrell Miller, Grain Production Placement, and Ashley Hartsook, Equine Entrepreneurship (*Kuhl-4time state winner), 2006; Jason Lents, Beef Placement; Cameron Weeda, Forage Placement, and Andy Jennett in Turfgrass Management Placement, 2007; Maggie Thelen, Equine Entrepreneurship; and Jason Lents in Forage Production Placement, 2008; Todd Ramaeker, Grain Production Placement; Colton Dunphy, Poultry Production Placement, and Ethan Harris in Agricultural Sales Placement, 2009; Ayla Peppmeier, Diversified Livestock Production, Todd Ramaeker in Diversified Crop Production in 2010; Darin Hatfield in Agricultural Sales Placement in 2014; Brooke Thelen in Agribusiness in 2014; Brooke Thelen won state in Equine Science in 2015; and Tyler Waddingham in Small Animal 2015.

By promoting leadership, skill development, and community involvement, the Creston FFA looks for many more success stories to come.

It is the hope of its membership that the next 65 years will bring as much growth and successes as have the years since the chapter was founded in 1951.