Kentucky FFA makes big
splash at national convention

FRANKFORT, Ky. — The state’s FFA contingency once again made their presence known at the recent National FFA Conference held in Indianapolis.

Kentucky members were among the 54,000 that attended from across the country and for the second time in three years, the Spencer County FFA Chapter won the Dairy Cattle Evaluation Career Development Event.

Members of the team were Michella White, Kelli Smitha, Cassandra Peterson, and Whitney Owen. White, Smitha, and Peterson were the third, fourth and fifth high individuals respectively, and Owen earned a gold medal.  All will receive scholarships from the National FFA Organization.  Spencer County FFA Advisor Bland Baird coached the team.

“Kentucky FFA members once again demonstrated that they are among the best in the nation. The level of competition at the National Convention is incredibly tough but through hard work and preparation, these members made Kentucky proud,” said state  executive secretary Matt Chaliff.

The Spencer County group excelled in other competitions as well. Three other teams Agriculture Sales, Agronomy, and Farm Management finished in the top 10 nationally, and two students, Danielle Reeser and Brian Garcia, placed in the top 10 in their events.

Amanda Jewell, also of Spencer County was a National Winner in the Agri-Entrepreneurship Contest which is sponsored by USDA Rural Development.  Jewell was recognized for her work in her business enterprise, AJ’s Berries and received $1000 to expand and grow her business said Chaliff.

Other chapters recognized at the conference included Wolfe County FFA which was named as one of the 10 Model of Innovation Chapters in Community Development. The members have worked to educate the community about the dangers of methamphetamine and to combat the spread of this illegal drug in their community.
All together, 173 Kentucky students received their American FFA Degrees, which is the highest award the organization can bestow on a member.

The state was also recognized as one of 26 to have membership growth in 2007-2008.

FFA membership in Kentucky is at a 30-year high and is near the all time record which was set in 1978 said Chaliff. In Kentucky, over 15,000 FFA members represent 148 chapters across the state. For more information, visit www.kyffa.org 

American Angus Assoc.
seeks summer interns

The American Angus Association is now accepting applications from college students who want to explore a career and gain real-world experience at a breed association. The paid internships last approximately 10-12 weeks during Summer 2009.  Application deadline is Feb. 1, 2009.

The Association’s communications department offers an internship to junior or senior-level students majoring in agricultural journalism or communications who have an interest in the livestock industry. Animal science students with a strong skill set in writing and editing are also encouraged to apply. Send a cover letter, resume and writing samples to Shelia Stannard, director of communications & events. The junior activities department employs a college student to assist the planning and execution of junior Angus shows and leadership events.

Any student interested should apply to Robin Ruff, director of junior activities.

For more information about any of these internships, or to submit application, which includes cover letter, resume and references, please contact the individuals listed above at 3201 Frederick Ave., Saint Joseph, MO 64506 or call them at 816-383-5100.