FFA members attend 85th National FFA Convention
On October 24th -October 27th fifteen officers of the Fredericktown FFA chapter attended the 85th National FFA Convention in Indianapolis, Indiana. More than 55,000 FFA members and guests attend from all parts of the United States, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam.
The Fredericktown FFA members heard many well-known guest speakers at the convention, one being Scott Hamilton, former Olympic Gold Medalist. Six national officers presided over the sessions at the convention. The convention sessions included the presentation of awards to FFA members and chapters and recognition of industry sponsors who support the FFA on a national scope. Special entertainment was presented during the FFA talent show and from FFA members who serve in the National FFA Band and Chorus.
One of the highlights of the convention was the national career show, which involved over 400 exhibitors. The exhibits represented career fields in agricultural production, processing, mechanics, leadership, and education.
Three members of the Fredericktown FFA chapter received the coveted American FFA Degree (formerly known as the American Farmer Degree). Ethan Smallen, Andrew Laut, and Liz Laut received their American FFA Degree. Only forty-one local FFA members have earned this award since the chapter received its charter in 1929.
While in the area the group toured the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and in the same day the group toured The Indiana Downs Race Track in Shelbyville, Indiana. On the way there the group toured the Saint Louis Arch. Those attending this year’s convention were; Brady Brewen, David Hovis, Clay Lerche, Jake Hinkle, Easton Clark, Morgan Cunningham, Michaela Vest, Stephanie Lawrence, Kaleb Francis, Reba Shanefelter, Ryan Mauk, Austin Martin, Caleb Royer, Trevor Singleton and Ty Boyd. Also attending were FFA advisors Tom Mooney and Mike Graham.
