2013-14 PAFFA Annual Report

Leadership
FFA Board of Directors
Gretchen Dingman, President, Ellen Aurand, Vice
President, Michael Brammer, Secretary
David Steinfelt, Michael Clark, Clifford Wallace, Dr.
Daniel Foster, Sarah Sparks, Sherisa Nailor, Christopher Toevs, Stephen Winklosky, Casey Shawver
FFA Board of Directors – Regional Coordinators
Ron Frederick, Eastern Region
Annette Gray, Northern Region
Kelly Bier, South Central Region
Joseph Goodge, Western Region
Pennsylvania FFA Staff
Michael Brammer, Executive Secretary, Penny
Brammer, Adult Treasurer, Christopher Weller,
State FFA Advisor, Clifford Day, FFA Facilitator
FFA Alumni Council
Sherisa Nailor, President, SaraBeth Fulton, Vice
Presdient, Krista Pontius, Secretary,
Jaclyn Brammer, Membership Secretary, Mark
Lowery & Ken Martin, Eastern Region Director,
Carol & Bob Cornman, Northern Region Director,
Lloyd Bier, Ayla Miller & Jennifer Price, South Central Director
FFA Foundation Board
Mark Lowery, President, Michael Hess, Vice President, Steven Kline, Treasurer
Bob Cornman, Eric Cowden, Rachel Cloninger, Samuel
Kieffer, Nathan Hoover, Melissa Sankey, Phillip Haussenor
2013-2014 State FFA Officer Team
President
Vice President
Secretary
Treasurer
Reporter
Sentinel
Chaplain
Christopher Toevs
Stephen Winklosky
Deidra Bollinger
Lena Bioni
Kayla Wallace
Austin Shay
Michala Kuhlman
Cumberland Valley
Derry
Elizabethtown
McGuffey
United
Milton Hershey
Northeast Bradford
National FFA Officers
President
Western Vice President
Southern Vice President
Eastern Vice President
Central Vice President
Secretary
Brian Walsh
Jason Wetzler
Jackson Harris
Wes Davis
Steven Brockshus
Mitch Baker
Virginia
Oregon
Alabama
West Virginia
Iowa
Tennessee
The 2013-2014 Pennsylvania State FFA Officer Team has had a very
exciting, fun filled and extremely busy year. We hope that all FFA members had the chance to learn something new, meet someone new and experience something new, our team surely has had all these opportunities take
place at least once! In the next few pages you will have the chance to see
firsthand all the amazing events and activities we have attended, organized and been a part of. Thank you for making this an amazing year for
us!
Your 2013-2014 Pennsylvania State Officer Team
Christopher Toevs, Stephen Winklosky, Deidra Bollinger, Lena Bioni, Kayla Wallace, Austin Shay, Michala
Kuhlman
The 2013-2014 State Officer theme is true and powerful! The Pennsylvania FFA truly is a foundation that so many before you have built
their futures on. During the summer the State Officers attended a
breakfast with the Governor. This was one of the first times that a
team has had the opportunity to communicate and develop a connection with the Governor of this Commonwealth. The Mid-Winter convention of 2014 saw a new record when 355 members received their
state degree of membership and 355 first year members have received
their first FFA jacket through the Alumni Jacket Campaign. In February, even a snow storm could not keep ACES from being attended by
over 1400 students and advisors. Although there were about 1500
registered, those that made it to the conference had a great time. Also
the ACES conference took a step into the right direction by adding an
additional weekend to allow more students to participate and build
their future. In March, SLLC taught over 450 students about the legislative process. FFA members, advisors and over 50 legislators attended the conference ending breakfast. These events are just some of
the ways that we have built the future of our great Association. Agriculture Education Teachers spend countless hours helping their students develop, grow, and flourish. They truly are devoted to their chosen profession, and care about the outcome of their students. We all
say thank you for your time and dedication.
When we reflect on the past year of the Pennsylvania Association and
the State Officer team, one word comes to mind, WOW! This year
several foundations were laid for the future. It all started when seven
individuals from all over the state came together to make a difference,
which was the beginning. They made progress throughout the year by
staying together on their goals, ambitions and visions. By working together, they have succeeded in helping Pennsylvania FFA members to
continue in “Building the Future”
Sincerely,
Michael S. Brammer
Michael S. Brammer
Pennsylvania FFA
Executive Manager
Greetings Pennsylvania FFA Members and Advisors:
The Pennsylvania FFA Association has worked to “Build the Future” by
Igniting the passion of over 12,000 FFA Members and Advisors throughout the
past year.
The State FFA Officers Team and the Adult Board, including the Executive Manager, Adult Treasurer and Regional Coordinators are made up of very
dedicate individuals who have given their time, energy and talent to the Pennsylvania State FFA Association. Thank you to these individuals for their dedication which has allowed the Pennsylvania FFA Association to Build the Future for
our organization.
Some highlights of this year include: 351 Keystone Degrees being
awarded at the Mid-Winter Convention. It was the first year that three weekends of the ACES conference was held and over 450 members and advisors attended the SLLC conference this year.
The State FFA officers have done a wonderful job leading the Pennsylvania FFA Association this past year and encouraging FFA members to Build for
their Future by inspiring them to participating in Career Development Events,
conferences and encouraging members to pursue Proficiency awards and higher
degrees.
Sincerely,
Gretchen Dingman
Gretchen Dingman
PA FFA Board President
As the current fiscal year is coming to a close, the Pennsylvania FFA Foundation Board of
Trustees would like to submit the following summary of activities:
The board welcomed two new Trustees. Melissa Sankey, Penn Ag Industries, and Phillip Haussener, Cedar Crest High School. We also
recognized Heidi Crager, Pennsylvania Farm Show, for her six years
of service to the board. Heidi’s term expired in May 2014.
FFA Foundation Administrative Secretary Stephanie Shirk resigned effective December 31, 2013. After a job description review, search
and interview process, the Board of Trustees selected Sarah Sparks
as the new Executive Director effective March 17, 2014.
The Foundation conducted the 21st annual golf tournament at Fox Chase
in Stevens, PA. The event was attended by over 175 supporters and
raised $33,046.08 to support agricultural education efforts in Pennsylvania.
During the Ag Progress Days event in Rock Springs, PA in mid-August,
the Foundation participated with its normal food booth functions. The
event raised $7,570.35
Grant acquisition activity for the 2013-2014 Fiscal Year included an
$8,500 grant from CSX (via National FFA) to support the ACES Conference, $3,500 and from the NE Ag Ed Foundation for Western PA
Leadership Conference.
During the Pennsylvania Farm Show, the Foundation staffed two food
booth locations. After a 17% decrease in event attendance due to
poor weather, the Foundation posted a loss for the event. The Board
of Trustees voted to terminate our current activities at the PA Farm
Show as a result.
The Foundation participated in the All-American Dairy Show with a food
booth for the first time (using Snyder Concessions as the provider).
The event raised approximately $3,000.
As a result of the above activities and other ongoing efforts, the Pennsylvania FFA Foundation has remitted nearly $140,000 directly to the Pennsylvania FFA Association, FFA Chapters and affiliated “Ag Ed Family” organizations. We look forward to continuing to support
agricultural education efforts in the Commonwealth and to increase our support and commitment for the upcoming fiscal year.
Sincerely,
Mark A. Lowery
President
Pennsylvania FFA Foundation
Sarah Sparks was hired by the PA FFA Foundation as
their new Executive Director on March 17,
2014. Sparks was a previous member of the Bermudian
FFA Chapter in 1998 to 2002 and graduated from
Penn State in 2006 with a degree in Agricultural Extension and Education. She then taught for eight years at
South Eastern School District where she was the Kennard
Dale FFA advisor and Agriculture Advisory board director. She also began a small SAE project in 1998 with an
Angus heifer that has now evolved into a family business,
Beaver Creek Angus. The herd has grew to over 100
head and holds an annual fall sale, where cattle are sold
to young FFA and 4-H members from all over the country. Sparks resides in East Berlin where she and her
husband Christopher raise their two children Hayden and
Kathryn.
As newly elected officers we participated in BLASTOFF training with
Pennsylvania’s most recent National FFA Officer, Elio Charelli. This was the
first time we as an officer team got to see each other’s strengths and how
we could utilize everyone’s abilities on the team. This week was not as
glamorous as many of us expected it to be. The days we put in were long
and often times we learned that putting ourselves first is no longer a priority, but the week produced a stronger a group of seven elite officers.
During this we learned how to be a successful officer team but also how to
make the year successful for our own lives. From packing a suit case to
building a human pyramid or mummifying a team mate to writing ourselves a letter, no stone was left unturned that week. The gifts were coming like it was Christmas but little did we know
at that time that we
would use marker,
post-it note, note
book, and bag given
to us more times
than we can even
count.
-Lena Bioni
During the month of July the state officer
team had the opportunity to enjoy Breakfast
with the Governor. We visited the Governor
and First Lady, and had discussed the future
of Pennsylvania Agriculture and the importance of agricultural education. From the bacon at breakfast to the tour of the house the
experience was a once in a lifetime opportunity.
-Austin Shay
The Pennsylvania Association of Agriculture
Educators Annual meeting was held July 8th
through the 10th in Manheim, Pennsylvania.
During this two day meeting teachers attended
various workshops to continue their education
to take back to their classrooms. These workshops including things from A.I. breeding, to
certifying teachers to teach hunter safety.
Teachers also attended round table discussions
and learned new things that other teachers are
doing in their classrooms. The State officer team attended various workshops with the
teachers as well as helped the entire conference go smoothly.
-Michala Kuhlman
The Western Pennsylvania Leadership Conference is a two day conference
during the summer held, in you guessed it, the Western Region. The conference
rotates every year to different areas with in the region. This year the conference
was held at the beautiful, historic (and haunted) Conneaut Lake Hotel.
Members arrived the morning of the 18th and had the opportunity to attend workshops conducted by outside organizations and presenters throughout
the day. That evening members were able to take a cruise on the beautiful Conneaut Lake and attend the Beach Party, which consisted of volleyball games,
sandcastle building, swimming, and music. The night was concluded with reflections by the State Officer Team.
On the morning of the 19th, members attended three different workshops
conducted by the State Officers. They also
had the opportunity to listen to speakers
before starting their trek home.
-Kayla Wallace
The annual State Presidents’ Conference was held on July 22nd through July 27th, 2013. In order to
fully describe the experience, Stephen Winklosky and I would say, “Suit Up.” The first two and a half days, we
spent going through workshops on how to “Suit Up” for the different aspects that State FFA Officers represent in their year of service. We broke it down to five crucial areas: the world, the nation, agriculture, the
FFA organization, and the members. With each workshop we went through, Stephen and I would be learning
how best to “Suit Up” for each of these categories to better serve others in our year of service.
In between and after workshops, we toured the Mall in Washington, DC! One of the coolest tours was
seeing the monuments on the night tour. We saw sights like the Martin Luther King, Jr. memorial, the World
War II memorial, and the Lincoln memorial under a beautiful summer night. In addition, the National FFA
Officers gave reflections next to the World War II memorial to commemorate the sacrifice men, women, and
FFA members made during this time of need. We all walked away from the experience thankful for their sacrifice and better able to Suit Up for them.
As the conference’s end drew near, we refocused on the delegate issues that would be shared at the
National Convention in October. Everyone in attendance at SPC would serve as part of the Leadership Committee of each delegate issue in order to help facilitate the process
come October. Furthermore, this was our opportunity to take back this
information to our State FFA Officer teams at home and educate them
on what would happen in Louisville, Kentucky.
Stephen and I loved our experience in Washington, DC and are
thankful for this opportunity to represent the Pennsylvania FFA Association at the national level. We learned a great deal about how to
share the various stories of our world and how to appropriately Suit
Up for those around us. We only challenge each FFA member to Suit
Up for their Organization, so we all can show our support for agriculture and the world around us.
-Christopher Toevs
During the FFA Foundation Golf Tournament held
on July 25th, the FFA State Officer Team truly
had the chance to meet the support behind the
scenes. The officers peddled mulligans to all who
would buy, delivered food and drinks across the
golf course, and kept track of the putt challenge.
The officers were also sold off in the live auction, in
exchange for donations to the FFA Foundation.
-Michala Kuhlman
The National Leadership Conference for State Officers, better know as "NLCSO" was attended by the
Pennsylvania State officer team for the first time in
three years. The team traveled to Baltimore, Maryland to attend this event with other state officer
teams in the area, such as Delaware, New Jersey,
West Virginia, Maryland and Virginia. Also, the team
from Puerto Rico attended. At this event, the team
learned how to work as a state office team, instead
of an individual officer. The team learned many
techniques on properly developing a workshop. The
team had the opportunity to learn concepts of how
to communicate with members. They learned how to
be relatable but also remain professional at the same
level. The team also had the chance to talk with a
National officer on struggles we would face as not only a team, but individually also. Along with the learning
aspect, we listened and also presented reflections to other teams. Giving the team the opportunity to learn from
others on how to improve in certain areas. The social aspect of the conference also benefited the team greatly. In
talking with and getting to know other teams we learned of how others handle certain situations, in talking
about what does and doesn't work at both chapter visits and conferences. Over all the team had a wonderful
experience at the National Leadership Conference for State Officers
-Stephen Winklosky
What seems to be every farmer’s favorite time to get away from the farm? Ag Progress Days of course! Each
year it is held by the Penn State College of Ag Sciences, at the Russell E. Larson Agricultural Research Center at
Rock Springs. As our state’s largest outdoor agricultural exposition it features the latest technology and research
exhibits. There are also educational programs for individuals of all ages and guided tours. The Pennsylvania FFA
Foundation Booth is open and sells PA Preferred Pizza, along with rib and sausage sandwiches.
Our team worked together to create an educational learning station in the 4-H Building. Children and guests
alike had the chance to visit “our farm,”
and meet the various farm animals, each
animal had industry related facts to share.
As individuals completed the scavenger hunt
they could then color their very own farm
and received a packet of seeds to take home
and plant.
-Deidra Bollinger
The Eastern States Exposition was held on Thursday, September 12th thru Saturday, September 14th, 2013. While the rest of my team was off helping at individual CDE
events, I had the fortunate opportunity to serve as a Big-E Intern through the FFA Event
Office. The position is only open to current State FFA Presidents who will be attending the
Big-E throughout the entire time of the CDE events. The purpose of this position is to 1)
give insight into the process that goes behind the preparation of a national level FFA CDE
event and 2) to bring together State FFA Officers from across the North-Eastern United
States.
I was able to serve with State Presidents from Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, New
Jersey, and Vermont. I had previously met all of them at the State Presidents’ Conference
in July, so this was a pleasant reunion for all of us! Thursday, we did all major set-up for
the events that included putting together paperwork and setting up the office for the next
few crazy days.
Friday, the insanity started as CDE’s were underway. As they finished, all of the
results were taken to the FFA Event Office where the interns helped process the information to see who had won the competitions. Some of the competitions ended up going so
late that we were still pumping out results as the awards banquet was being held! At the
end of the day, though, all six of the interns were happy with the day’s work.
A huge thank you to all who made the internship possible and to each of the other
interns who helped make this experience a memorable one. In addition, a HUGE congratulations to all Pennsylvania teams who helped us win
the Eastern States Exposition Sweepstakes; the official
award presented to the state with the most wins in all
CDEs!!!
-Christopher Toevs
Attend a Nationally Sanctioned Dairy Show was not something we expected to be
on our schedules but an open mind is one key to success. But being invited to the
50th Annual All American Dairy Show was a chance we could not turn down. For
most of the team this was the first Dairy Show they had attended, and our duties
kept us busy while still giving us a chance to explore the atmosphere. Most helped
outside of the show ring preparing ribbons and prizes to be handed out, others recorded class placing’s, and passing out flyers. Again I remind you that this is a national show and thankfully the State Officers from Maryland were there to help us.
On our team only two officers have ever shown a dairy cow that was until All
American, when we had to exhibit for our FFA members who were participating in
the Dairy Judging Career Development Event. Some caught on quickly while others
struggled with stubborn old cows.
-Lena Bioni
The Fall Leadership Conference is the first state wide conference the team facilitated. The Fall Leadership Conference
was held at the Blair County Convention center with about
100 in attendance. The chapters in attendance brought
both officers and first year members. The officers from each
chapter went through workshops presented by Penn State
Agriculture Education students. The officers learned more
about what their offices entails. The first year members
worked through a series of workshops on the basics of FFA.
Such as workshops on proper official dress, FFA history and
much more. We were paired for each of the workshops,
learning how to work the room as a pair and handle a midsized group. We appreciated the fact that we had first year
members for out first conference as it allowed us to learn
what works and does not work in a conference setting. We
really were able to connect with members on a better level.
All together, we had a wonderful experience with the Fall
Leadership Conference and loved the entire experience.
-Stephen Winklosky
The monday during Farm Show is full of action packed excitement for exhibitors and FFA members alike.
Many are preparing their pigs for show and others are preparing for State STAR interviews. In the morning
students who advanced from the regional level interview with a panel of judges to see who will be named
STAR in one of the four categories. In addition the state officers are preparing for the Pennsylvania FFA Mid
Winter Convention. During convention we recognized the 351 Keystone Degree Recipients and the 355 First
Year Jacket Recipients. In addition to the students we also recognized
the parents of members who have had more then 3 children receive
their Keystone Degrees.
-Austin Shay
The 86th National FFA Convention was quite a convention, with a record high attendance of
62,998 members, advisors, and guests present. For state FFA officers from across the nation,
the National FFA Convention began early Monday morning as we all set out to begin the National Days of Service. This day is designed to improve and give back to the city of Louisville
because as the FFA motto says, we Live to Serve. The seven Pennsylvania State officers as well
as officers and delegates from California, Oregon, and Washington spent the day working with
Habitat for Humanity to help finish building homes
for families just outside of the city.
Throughout the rest of the week, the state officers
had the privilege of serving as National FFA Delegates. They were assigned to committees to review
and make suggestions to the National FFA Board.
Also during the week, Pennsylvania FFA members
competed and represented Pennsylvania in their respective Career Development Events. In addition to Career Development events Pennsylvania was represented by a National Officer Candidate Finalist, Matthew Dodson of the Chambersburg FFA Chapter.
The sessions Wednesday through Saturday were filled with energy as people filed in to the
Kentucky Expo Center. To begin each session there was a video entitled “Ignite” just before the
National Officers made their entrance to the song
“My Songs Know What You Did in the Dark” by
Fall Out Boy. Then at each session, we had the opportunity to listen as one of the six National Officers gave their retiring address. Another very important part to each session was the guest speakers
which came from all different professions and
backgrounds to deliver their message to us as FFA
members. The guest speakers included Rick Pitino, head coach of the University of Louisville
Basketball team, Joe Torrillo, New York City Firefighter and survivor of the September 11 th
attacks, and Josh Sundquist, U.S. Paralympics Ski Team member and the author of Just Don't
Fall.
Pennsylvania also had three very special
degrees awarded at the National FFA
Convention. Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Matthew Meals, Gary Heckman of
AgChoice Farm Credit, and Eric Cowden
the Community Outreach Manager of the
Marcellus Shale Coalition each receive an
Honorary American FFA Degree. Honorary American FFA Degrees are awarded
to individuals who have provided the FFA,
Agriculture, or Agricultural Education with outstanding service. We are proud to say that these
three gentlemen have done just that.
Finally in the last session, the moment that we had all been waiting for as six brand new National FFA Officers as they ran onto the stage after their name was called and they were
elected. The new were chosen: National FFA President Brian Walsh of Virginia, National FFA
Secretary Mitch Baker of Tennessee, Central Region Vice President Steven Brockshus of Iowa,
Eastern Region Vice President Wes Davis of West Virginia, Southern Region Vice President
Jackson Harris of Alabama, and the Western Region Vice President Jason Wetzler of Oregon.
-Kayla Wallace
The 2014 Agriculture Cooperation Establishes Success
Conference, more commonly known as ACES was held
in February at the FFA Hotel, the Sheraton. This year’s conference was
special because it was attended by more than 1400 members, advisors,
and guests over the course of 3 weekends; even though some chapters were
unable to make it due to the uncontrollable weather conditions of snow
and ice. It was also ACES 16th birthday, we celebrated by having a themed
dance party after the workshops. This year’s workshops were Communicating the Brand, Your Personal Roadmap & FFA’s Roadmap. Our team
had a blast working with Past State Officers, Teach Ag Students and the
Washington Leadership Conference instructors, in addition to meeting
more FFA members and reconnecting with others!
-Deidra Bollinger
There is no better way to celebrate
the National FFA Organization than
with dedicating an entire week to
the over half a million members nationwide, and Pennsylvania is no exception to the festivities. All across
the state no matter what your school colors originally are if you
have an agriculture education program your school will bleed blue
and gold that famous week in February , National FFA Week. From
chapter parties, to fundraisers, trivia, and even drive your tractor
to school day FFA is impacting not only its members and alumni
but also the onlookers. The state officers participated by hosting
“Meet Your State Officer at Hoss’s Night.” Each of the officers were
divided across the state at different Hoss’s locations and members
were invited to come have dinner with them.,
-Lena Bioni
Many FFA Chapters celebrate their members accomplishments
by having a Banquet, including a dinner and followed by an
awards program. Our team has cumulatively attended 71
FFA Banquets and Awards Programs.
When asked what their favorite part of attending an
FFA Banquet was been, here are the responses:
Lena said, she’s enjoyed watching students get awards they did not expect and seeing
their face. FFA members are always doing things for others, so it’s great for them to get
recognition for it.
Kayla’s favorite part has been meeting older banquet attendees who are FFA Alumni and
having the chance to hear their stories about FFA.
Austin has loved to see student’s achievements but deep down, the variety of foods he got
to eat was his favorite part.
Chris and Stephen have both enjoyed watching how the members have grown from chapter visits at the beginning of the year to now and being able to connect with members
again.
Michala’s favorite part of attending banquets has been seeing members that she has met
throughout the year again and watching them be rewarded for their accomplishments.
As for me, I have enjoyed seeing the variety of special awards and traditions that are
unique to each FFA Chapter; everything from memorial awards to monetary scholarships
for specialized areas. I have watched seniors receive retiring officer plaques and blue and
gold cords to wear during graduation, as a few of my favorite experiences from banquets.
As State Convention serves as the cumulative celebration for our year we hope you have as
much fun watching the 7
of us as we have had
watching the more than
12,000 FFA Members of
Pennsylvania!
-Deidra Bollinger
Where we you on March 9th to the 11th, 2014?? If you were at the 27th Annual State Legislative Leadership
Conference, then you were a part of the LARGEST SLLC to date. With a total of 463 attendees, each person
walked through the legislative process and debated bills to prove why their voice should be heard. Once bills
were discussed and debated in mock creations of the House and Senate Majorities and Minorities, the FFA
members were able to sit down at a breakfast with their state legislators. Afterwards, the chapters then took
the conference to the state legislators’ offices to advocate for agricultural education and the FFA.
But who all made this possible? There were six individuals who gave up time out of school to help the State
FFA Officers facilitate the event. They were: Johnathon Noss, Allyson Balmer, Tyler Watkins, Tony Rice, Katie
McLaughlin, and Elizabeth Winklosky. (These FFA members served as your 2014 Second Year Scholars: members who have already attended SLLC, put in an application, and wish to help facilitate the conference in
junction with the State FFA Officers.) The Second Year
Scholars put on workshops, served as secretaries for
bills, and even chaired some discussion committees!
A huge thank you to the Second Year Scholars for
their time commitment to making this conference
possible. We also thank our sponsors of the event: AgChoice Farm Credit, Columbia Gas, Pennsylvania Farm
Bureau, Seneca Resources, and Mid-Atlantic Farm
Credit.
-Christopher Toevs
The Keystone International Truck and Tractor Pull was a
fantastic experience for us. We spent three days at the
Farm Show Complex working with Forrester Farm Equipment to say thank you for their continuous support. The
team spent time doing various tasks such as selling tickets, collecting tickets and selling raffles tickets. Several
local chapters came to help at this event. One of the best
aspects though is that since the event was nonprofit, all
proceeds returned to the association and local chapters.
But the event was not all work. We got to watch the tractor and truck pulls, hearing engines rattle the complex and smelling the exhaust in the air. We enjoyed our time helping a group that has
done so much for the association.
-Stephen Winklosky
The Pennsylvania FFA Association held their 85th Annual Summer Convention once
again at Penn State University. All went well as planned and the members made
memories to last a lifetime. They began the convention by arriving on Tuesday,
June 10, 2014, and by beginning to settle into what would be their home for the
next two days. The first day was filled with just the beginning of what was to
come. Members competed in CDEs, attended delegate meetings, interviewed for a
state office, or enjoyed more relaxing activities such as basketball, Frisbee, or talking with newly met friends. During the first general session that evening, regional
and state record book and proficiency winners were announced and awarded for
their hard-earned achievements. The Alleghany County FFA received their own
FFA Charter. Other awards that were presented were for public speaking events
such as Creed, Junior Prepared, Conservation, Extemporaneous, and Senior Prepared. That night the State Officer candidates introduced themselves to those in
attendance and the National FFA Central Region Vice President, Steven Brockshus
inspired us all with his words of wisdom. Early the next day, FFA members were
back at it again! Whether competing in more CDEs, delegate meetings, state office
interviews, or more leisurely activities, everyone was full of smiles. The second general session allowed time for the State Officers to give thanks. Several businesses
and supporters of the State FFA Association were awarded Honorary Keystone Degrees, Citation Service Awards, and Special Recognition Plaques. The members
were also able to listen to the powerful words of Past National FFA President and
current Manager of Corporate Communications for the Toyota Motor Company,
Javier Moreno. Then the State Officer team had the opportunity to recognize their
chapter advisors for their years of dedication and support throughout their FFA
experience and their parents for all of their guidance and sacrifices throughout the
past year. Afterwards, FFA members got “jiggy-wit-it” during a dance and celebration of their accomplishments. On the last day of the 85th Annual Summer
Convention, members attended the final general session. Members could finally find
out just how well they had done in their various CDEs. The FFA members heard
reflections from the retiring State Officers, and then, after many hours of anxiety,
the seven new state officers were inducted as the new, 2014-2015 State FFA Officer Team. We hope the 85th Annual Summer Convention will remain in your
memories forever and that throughout the previous year you have strived to help
others in “Building their Future”
-Austin Shay
In 2006, the Assistant Secretary of Vocational and Adult Education Dr. Troy Justesen
challenged those attending the National Agricultural Education In-service with a question, “If you consider FFA an integral part of agricultural education, then why do you
charge individual members dues?”
To find the answer, National FFA began looking at alternative ways to engage ALL agriculture students in the three-circle model of classroom/laboratory instruction, supervised agricultural experience and FFA, without limiting the organization to duespaying members and traditional funding sources. Hence, the movement towards an Affiliation Fees Program began.
In November 2007, a task force made up of teachers, teacher educators, state staff and
student representatives convened to discuss the Affiliation Fees Program and after
much discussion, adopted a proposal to present to the National FFA Board of Directors
during the summer meeting of 2008, where it voted to begin a two-year pilot. It was
during the January 2010 National Board Meeting that the National FFA Board of Directors approved the 2009 delegate committee recommendation to offer the option to
all states as an alternative to traditional membership dues.
Engage All Students
Yes, it seems like a simple, bold statement, but it’s really hard to do with the little time and resources available to today’s teacher. That’s where the Affiliation Dues Program can help. The
program helps the teacher find the time to engage each student. Benefits include:


No more taking valuable class time persuading students to join FFA.
No more collecting individual dues or writing receipts. The program essentially eliminates
the handling of money by students, teachers and others involved in process.
 No more adjusting curriculum for those in FFA and those who are not.
 The ability to invite all students to FFA activities.
 The elimination of creating and submitting several rosters. Just process your class roll once
or twice a year and be done.
With this additional time, the teacher can now focus on classroom instruction, provide new
ways to excite non-traditional members and participate in making a difference in leadership
education.
Eastern Region
County
Berks
Berks
Berks
Berks
Berks
Berks
Berks
Bucks
Bucks
Bucks
Bucks
Chester
Chester
Chester
Chester
Chester
Chester
Lancaster
Lancaster
Lancaster
Lancaster
Lancaster
Lancaster
Lancaster
Lancaster
Lancaster
Lancaster
Lancaster
Lancaster
Lebanon
Lebanon
Lebanon
Lebanon
Lebanon
Lehigh
Montgomery
Montgomery
Northampton
Northampton
Philadelphia
Philadelphia
Schuylkil
Schuylkill
Schuylkill
Chapter
2012-13
38
110
35
77
35
49
147
9
41
33
61
39
17
29
0
5
54
59
19
103
2013-14
26
125
49
115
31
80
190
15
36
27
58
0
15
44
0
15
50
156
94
229
Lancaster CO CTC
Lancaster CO CTC Willow
Lancaster Mennonite
Manheim Central
Penn Manor-Manor
Pequea Valley
36
0
16
49
82
77
25
154
0
14
77
231
251
29
Solanco
Warwick
Annville
Cedar Crest
106
23
74
67
297
0
54
66
64
0
119
0
26
15
0
22
0
527
41
13
109
159
0
165
24
27
13
0
0
0
561
37
11
136
2451
3661
Berks CTC East
Conrad Weiser
Kutztown
Oley Valley
Reading Muhlenburg
Tulpehocken
Twin Valley
Bucks Co AVTS
Delaware Valley College
Middle Bucks CTC
Upper Bucks
CAT Brandywine
CAT Pickering
Octorara
Owen J Roberts
Oxford Area
Technical College HS
Elizabethtown
Ephrata- Cloister
Garden Spot- Grassland
Lampeter Strasburg- Garden Spot
Eastern Lebanon Co
Lebanon County AVTS
Northern Lebanon
Lehigh Co CTC
North Montco
Western Center
Bangor
Bethlehem AVTS
Abraham Lincoln
W B Saul
Pine Grove
Schuylkill CTC
Tri Valley
EASTERN REGION TOTALS
Northern Region
County
Bradford
Bradford
Bradford
Bradford
Centre
Centre
Centre
Centre
Centre
Centre
Clearfield
Clinton
Clinton
Clinton
Columbia
Columbia
Columbia
Lackawanna
Luzerne
Luzerne
Athens
Canton
Northeast Bradford
Troy
Bald Eagle
Bellefonte
Central PA Institute
Penns Valley
PSU - collegiate
State College
Clearfield
Central Mountain
Keystone Central AVTS
Sugar Valley Rural Charter School
Benton Area
Central Columbia
Columbia-Montour AVTS
Lackawanna County AVTS
Northwest Area
Wilkes Barre AVTS
Lycoming
Lycoming
Lycoming
East Lycoming
Lycoming CTC
Montoursville
Lycoming
McKean
Monroe
Montour
Northumberland
Potter
Potter
Snyder
Snyder
Snyder
Snyder
Tioga
Tioga
Tioga
Union
Wyoming
Chapter
2012-13
2013-14
74
145
34
43
51
13
41
145
24
31
42
139
19
17
46
66
24
44
59
94
30
39
45
47
0
0
27
71
91
106
71
97
37
35
0
0
35
31
21
19
0
0
0
0
66
102
Williamsport
0
51
Bradford Area
Monroe Co AVTS
Danville
0
0
37
37
48
149
34
31
27
105
Line Mountain
Nothern Potter- Headwaters
Spud Growers
Midd West
Middleburg
Selinsgrove
West Snyder
Cowanesque
Liberty - Southern Tioga
Wellsboro-Grand Canyon
Mifflinburg
Tunkhannock
NORTHERN REGION TOTALS
58
84
135
278
0
0
55
146
0
0
78
116
15
21
48
104
111
144
55
99
1538
2649
South Central Region
County
Chapter
Adams
Bermudian Springs
Adams
Biglerville- Apple City
Adams
Fairfield- Mason Dixon
Adams
Gettysburg
Adams
Littlestown
Adams
New Oxford
Bedford
Bedford County
Bedford
Chestnut Ridge
Bedford
Northern Bedford
Blair
Bellwood-Antis
Blair
Central H S
Blair
Tyrone
Blair
Williamsburg
Cumberland
Big Spring
Cumberland
Cumberland Perry AVTS
Cumberland
Cumberland Valley
Cumberland
Shippensburg
Dauphin
Dauphin Co Tech -Keystone
Dauphin
Milton Hershey
Dauphin
Upper Dauphin
Franklin
Chambersburg
Franklin
Franklin Co CTC
Franklin
James Buchanan- Conococheague
Fulton
Forbes Road
Fulton
McConnellsburg
Fulton
Southern Fulton-Warfordsburg
Huntingdon
Huntingdon Co CTC-Raystown
Huntingdon
Huntingdon- Standing Stone
Huntingdon
Juniata Valley- Blue Juniata
Huntingdon
Mount Union -Captain Jack
Huntingdon
Southern Huntingdon
Juniata
East Juniata
Juniata
Juniata
Mifflin
Juniata Mifflin-Big Valley
Perry
Greenwood
Perry
Newport
Perry
West Perry
York
Dover
York
Eastern York
York
Gifford Pinchot
York
Kennard Dale
York
Red Lion
SOUTH CENTRAL REGION TOTALS
2012-13
201314
30
45
29
53
36
74
55
52
104
54
65
44
37
66
16
170
61
43
30
120
131
19
127
29
41
29
34
46
46
32
79
42
95
25
110
39
66
51
50
90
68
52
21
12
22
43
22
37
52
90
84
54
95
96
47
211
21
160
204
83
47
117
299
41
141
26
50
66
20
75
83
75
119
99
124
25
139
98
150
178
149
231
215
51
2485
3972
Western Region
County
Alleghany
Armstrong
Beaver
Beaver
Butler
Butler
Cambria
Clarion
Clarion
Crawford
Crawford
Crawford
Crawford
Elk
Erie
Fayette
Fayette
Greene
Greene
Indiana
Indiana
Indiana
Jefferson
Jefferson
Lawrence
Lawrence
Lawrence
Lawrence
Somerset
Somerset
Somerset
Somerset
Somerset
Somerset
Somerset
Washington
Washington
Washington
Westmoreland
Westmoreland
Chapter
Forbes Road CTC - Alleghany FFA
Lenape
Beaver County AVTS
Blackhawk
Knoch
Moniteau
Admiral Perry AVTS
Clarion Limestone
Red Bank Valley
Conneaut Area Sr. High
Conneaut Valley
Crawford AVTS
Linesville
Johnsonburg- Tambine
Northwestern- Albion
Fayette Co Avts
North Fayette AVTS
Waynesburg
West Greene
Marion Center
Penns Manor -Penns Manor
United
Brockway
Jefferson Tech
Laurel
Mohawk
Union Area
Wilmington
Berlin Brothersvalley
Meyersdale
Rockwood
Salisbury-Elk Lick
Somerset Area
Somerset CTC
Turkeyfoot Valley
First Love Christian Academy
Fort Cherry-HG Parkinson
McGuffey
Central Westmoreland CTC
Derry
WESTERN REGION TOTALS
2012-13
2013-14
0
38
21
17
47
52
0
22
13
104
0
13
0
41
119
12
0
38
38
28
56
21
37
0
78
15
40
32
10
28
30
0
16
82
140
0
19
0
48
120
37
0
92
49
75
71
96
47
0
110
52
0
78
108
46
8
11
94
25
28
11
65
91
5
103
149
0
117
80
68
2
23
124
25
46
0
109
123
25
102
1520
2150
Western Region:
Albion:
Brianna Boleratz
Cayden Carr
Hannah Devine
Ashley Fellows
Drayke Karges
Aaron Lance Jr.
Brothersvalley:
Megan Brown
Thomas DeArmitt
Wyatt Fisher
Elias Penny
Cody Simmons
Stewart Trulick
Conneaut Area:
Tanner Dittrich
Jennifer Hines
Kayla Roncagilone
Derry:
Peter Bizich
Ashley Cline
Laramie Cowan
Tiffany Mottle
Nathan Pollard
Elizabeth Winklosky
H.G. Parkinson
Raymond Atkinson
Sylvia Beccard
Maggie Coyne
Vincent Curtis, Jr.
Lainie jo Kilnsky
Emily Lucas
Victoria Nation
Laurel:
Derek Boak
Rebecca Jones
Justin Kennedy
Kaitlyn Lantz
Sarah Little
Rhonda Mitcheltree
Taylor Nogee
Phillip Richards
Jared Zelina
Marion Center
Alyshia Talmage
Kara Zolocsik
McGuffey
Brady Bedillion
Shawnee Beilchick
Travis Brownlee
Jessica Dearing
Nicholas Hancher
Meyersdale
Brittany Arnold
Stephen Deal
Brianna Hoyman
Lucas Reese
Penns Manor:
Jacob Barr
Miguel Graclan
Garrett Karlinsey
Adam Miller
April Pennington
John Stibrik
Elizabeth Weinzierl
Megan Yeckley
Somerset Area
Wayne Killinger
Aubrey Moon
Viridana Padilla
Elliot Peters
Hannah Rohrer
Steven Showman Jr.
Somerset CTC
Cody Lenart
Mark Shumaker
Wilmington
Dustin Bicehouse
Veronica Gathers
Jordan Green
Shelby Ratvasky
Jessica Schlumberger
Jaclyn Thompson
Alan Wilson
Northern Region:
Athens:
Emily Elsbree
Olivia Hardenstine
Caleb Jelliff
Kylee Ravenscroft
Mara Tate
Benton:
Brandon Barnes
Kyle Bogart
Adam Evans
Cassandra Getz
Bradley Good
Olivia Kile
Jason Laubach
Kenneth Parsons
Canton:
Whitney Baxter
Caleb Jackson
Autumn McPherson
Madison Riggs
Will Unrush
Central Columbia
Cody Bowman
Kaylea Brega
Jamie Fry
Sarah Gearhart
Malayna Kile
Walker Murphy
Kyle Neufer
Jared Oman
Graham Rhone
Monica Sokol
Stephanie Yoder
Austin Young
Columbia Montour
Lucia Cerasoll
Breanna Heckman
Kaylee McWilliams
Lauren Normandin
Bessie Ashburn
Cowanesque:
Deb Bleser
Dakota Bliss
Courtney Schauer
Samantha Swarner
Lydia Williams
Danville
Connor DeFacis
Easton Latranyl
Brianna Wells
Kolby Whitenight
Grand Canyon
Chance Borden
Amber Brown
Cheyenne Wetherbee
Headwaters:
Bryce Burchell
Stacey Plumstead
Lydia Thompson
Line Mountain
Eric Shoop
Little Lions
Halee Wasson
Heather Wasson
Midd-West
Patricia Arbogast
Brooke Fisher
Zachary Frymoyer
Ryan Kerstetter
Kassidy Kilnger
Tony Rice
Middleburg
Doug Boop
Amy Chappell
Mifflinburg
Donald DeHaven
Olivia Dietirch
Dawn Franck
Brittani Hook
Christian Kurtz
Kyle Pletcher
Northwest Area:
Victoria Daltroff
Sierra Maclerowski
Wyatt Thomas
Selinsgrove
Jade Hoffman
Rebecca Lauver
Autumn Swartzlander
Spud Growers
Bryan Supplee
Jacob Swade
Briggs Arnidon
Halley Brown
Jenna Gabreski
Courtney Rogers
Troy
Wesley Noble
Eastern Region:
Manor
Cedar Crest
Janelle Deltz
Kevin Heagy
Kayla Kneasel
Sherry Moore
Travis Zuck
Cloister
ELCO
Jessica Hochrelter
Emily Pfeiffer
Olivia Clelan
Elizabethtown
Scott Becker
Shawn Dabbs
Timothy Ebersole
Emma Munyan
Garden Spot
Katlyn McMichael
Cortney Tantala
Rachel Gagliardi
Garrett Weaver
Grassland
Matthew High
Jessalyn Horst
Clayton Lehman
Abbey Martin
Taylor Martin
Corey Twaddell
Joshua Weaver
Rachel Weaver
Bryan Zimmerman
Hans Herr
Logan Garber
Uriah Sauder
Eric Weaver
LCCTC
Bethany Ditzler
Little Dutchmen
Myrannda Kleckner
Justin Lutz
Austin Meyer
Kyle Schaeffer
Rebeka Strouse
Katreina Wagner
Manheim
Allyson Balmer
Chelsey Becker
Austin Horning
Melissa Kreiser
Gwendolyn Snyder
Janelle Geib
Elizabeth Hess
Aaron Breneman
Jesse Burkholder
Bradley Groff
David Herr
Victoria Herr
Katie Hess
Kayla Major
Hunter McVey
Northern Lebanon
Lisa Boltz
Ricki Deeter
Steven Patches
Katie Smith
Octorara
Lydia Lion
Oley Valley
Courtney Brumbach
Kenidy Kubitz
Callista Miller
Austin Schaeffer
Shannon Yoder
Pequea Valley
Jesse Stoltzfus
Timothy Wanner
Philadelphia
Halle Cherry
Katie Kilcullen
Isaiah Nelson
Leslie Rodriquez
Rachel Sobel
Pine Grove
Dakota Daubert
Michael Hozella
Solanco
Carly Bryant
Bridgett Frey
Victoria grimm
Missy Speicher
Tri-Valley
Jordan Ross
Gabriella Smith
Twin Valley
Andrew Crew
Shannon Dieffenbach
Heather Gardner
Alexandria kern
Dalton Kubovcsak
Stephanie Kurtz
Sarah McTish
Brooke Reider
South Central Region
Apple City
Julia Freed
Kyle Hess
Morgan Sowers
Battlefield
Timothy Poorman
Sarah Six
Katie Young
Bedford County
Josiah Koontz
Carla Weist
Bellwood-Antis
Michael MclElhinney
Danny Nelson
Bermudian Springs
Remington King
Christopher Lerew
Big Spring
Christina Kurnath
Mark Shughart
Cheyenne Swope-Stitt
Joseph Weber
Makayla Sturtz
Makayla Sheaffer
Blue Juniata
Taylor Cooper
Ryan Fitzgerald
Megan Forgy
Sarah Jeffries
Erin Mills
Captain Jack
Amanda Fisher
Myra Miller
Kendra Semple
Central Cove
Laura Ritchey
Cody Thompson
Darrin Thompson
Chambersburg
Rebekah Byers
Chestnut Ridge
Tanner Welason
Conococheauge
Matthew Brake
Jessica Cain
Kayla Hartung
Candice Plessinger
Kolbey Stewart
Michaela Suder
Cumberland Valley
Shannon Christie
Allison Emig
Jena Griffin
Jessica Karns
Kelsey Paulus
Laura Shatto
Mary Beth Silke
Taylor Yount
Dover
Dustin Fetrow
Danielle Foeks
Kyle Livingston
Mackenzie Mills
Kent Todd
Zoey Workman
East Juniata
Brooke Kitting
Forbes Road
Brock Hohman
Trenton Romig
Gifford Pinchot
Alana Eisenhour
Cheyenne Myers
Greenwood
Garrett Byers
Grant Carlton
Cody Cauffman
Zane Delancey
Tyler Fegley
Lauren Fried
Aaron Korber
Kristen Ryberg
Lauren Wilson
Raystown Area
Jessica Heeter
Greg Hoover
Presley McCartney
Madyson Pine
Troy Schmidt
Juniata
Clancein Dounough
Chad Eberle
Katherine McLaughlin
Joshua Snyder
Kennard Dale
Mariah Beavers
Karli Farmer
Kutztown
Kayla Fusselman
Mason Dixon
Kolt Sanders
McConnellsburg
Cody Trail
Sara Wenschhof
Milton Hershey
Felicia Cook
Wynonna Gravenor
Ashley Nino
Raven VanderVeen
Stephanie Velez
Newport
Elizabeth Wyant
Northern Bedford
Sienna Bowser
Mikayla Gates
Brendan Over
Kenneth Shimer
Tracy Steele
Red Lion
Melody Gerver
Matthew Hunter
Shippensburg
Hallee Fessler
Krystal Helm
Alexandria Miller
Ruby Mohn
Kelsey Myers
Sami Stauffer
Southern Huntingdon
Matthew Edgin
Bryce Hawbaker
Chandler Kern
Tyler Watkins
Standing Stone
Amber Cook
Shannon Culberston
Kody Myers
Levi Riley
Abby Snare
Brianna Wolfe
Upper Dauphin
John Bush
West Perry
Nathan Briggs
Tessa Hansbury
Jonathan Noss
Clay Rice
Williamsburg
Danielle Delp
Austin McMonagle
Paige Pearson
FFA Honorary Keystone Degree
Debra & Scott Schmittel
J. Marlin & Nancy Becker (Manheim)
David & Carol Bowser
Donald & Sherry Groff (Manor)
Lisa & Tim Bioni
Tom & Cindy Ritchey (Central Cove)
Connie & Mark Kuhlman
Robert & Debbie Hartung (Conococheague)
Ruby & Daryl Bollinger
Steven & Lucinda Donough (Juniata)
Judy & Brian Toevs
Durrel & Dawn Delp (Williamsburg)
Gretchen & Paul Winklosky
Joe & Julie Mille (Penns Manor)
Tom & Trisha Wallace
John & Betsy Ratvasky (Wilmington)
Bill & Sheila Black
FFA Special Parent Awards
David Steinfelt
Dean & Miriam Patches (Northern Lebanon)
Joel Rotz
Gary & Venus Plessinger (Conococheauge)
Mark Hooper
Ronald & Candace Wasson (Little Lions)
Abe Hughes
George & Dixie Wilson (Wilmington)
Christine Greig
Sharon & Gerald Rice (Midd-West)
Edward Wenschlof
JoAnn Evans
Citation Awards
Arnie Miller
H. Rockwell & Son
Dr. Bryan Lanqlois
Hess Farm Equipment
Dr. Terri Coon
Gro-Lan Farms
Brenda Benner
Ephrata Farmers Day Association—Tent City
Committee
Barbara Christ
Michael Hess
Rachel Cloninger
Sam Keiffer
Darrell Curtis
Brummer Farms
Northeast Ag Ed Foundation
Friends of Farm Show Foundation
Zoetis
AgChoice Farm Credit
PA FFA Alumni
Shyanna
Courtney
Kalee
Ashley
Emily
Josh
Adams
Aldrich
Anderson
Bedillion
Benner
Bledsoe
Laurel
Conneaut Area
Southern Huntingdon
McGuffey
Juniata
Solanco
Nicole
Suzanna
Alison
Breann
Samantha
Marcus
Tucker
Samuel
Matthew
Katie
Sarah
Jeremiah
Frank
Nicholas
Stephen
Megan
Brian
Jeremy
Casey
Brittany
Krista
Kelsey
Janae
Courtney
Mitchell
Cody
Ryan
Kaitlyn
Janice
Sean
Bryanna
Cristina
Chadwick
Coleman
Conrad
Curry
Deal
Dess
Dittrich
Dively
Dodson
Donmoyer
Eichenlaub
Elsessor
Elsessor
Feidt
Geib
Gingrich
Groff
Haldeman
Hall
Hawn
Hawn
Henry
Herr
Hilderbrand
Hoffman
Holmes
Horner
Hovis
Jackson
Jones
Kenno
Kern
McGuffey
Raystown
Tyrone
Conneaut Area
Meyersdale
Wilmington
Conneaut Area
Brothersvalley
Chambersburg
Northern Lebanon
Mifflinburg
Greenwood
Greenwood
Upper Dauphin
Manheim
Manheim
Manor
Manheim
Canton
Blue Juniata
Blue Juniata
West Perry
Garden Spot
McGuffey
Somerset CTC
Wilmington
Somerset CTC
Wilmington
Canton
Philadelphia
Upper Dauphin Area
Southern Huntingdon
Logan
Kind
Wilmington
Ashlyn
LaBonte
Shippensburg
Elizabeth
Lauver
Selinsgrove
Kate
Livingston
Dover
Magen
Majeski
Twin Valley
Gabrielle
Martenas
Shippensburg
Dylan
Martin
Wilmington
Kaitlin
Martin
Wilmington
Hayden
McComsey
Newport
Nicole
McCord
Kennard Dale
Scott
McMichael
Garden Spot
Aryana
Mickley
Wilmington
Deanna
Miller
Red Lion
Olivia
Murphy-Sweet
Cumberland Valley
Cassandra
Musser
Mohawk
Douglas
Musser
Manheim
Kayla
Myers
Cumberland Valley
Kara
Myers
Shippensburg
Jenny
Ratvasky
Wilmington
Quinn
Robinson
Midd-West
Lindsay
Royer
Elizabethtown
Sarabeth
Royer
Elizabethtown
Jacklyn
Schroeder
Mahantango
Kevin
Seger
Conneaut Area
Samantha
Sessamen
Tyrone Area
Casey
Shawver
Midd-West
Brandy
Smail
Laurel
Rachel
Snow
Conneaut Area
Natalie
Styer
Wilmington
Rachel
Telesz
Wilmington
Krystal
Wasson
Little Lions
Heather
Wilkinson
Apple City
Chad
Wilson
Wilmington
Aaron
Wissler
Garden Spot
Kayla
Wright
Southern Huntingdon
Danyle
Wright
Southern Huntingdon
David
Zimmerman
Northern Lebanon
2014 Pennsylvania State CDE Results
Ag Technology & Mechanical Systems
Team – Central Mountain AVTS – 1st
Lampeter Strasburg – 2nd
Individuals – 1. Russell Brungard – Central Mountain
2. Shannon Fairchild – Lampeter Strasburg
3. Mark Mellinger – Lampeter Strasburg
Agricultural Sales
Team – Manheim – 1st
James Buchanan – 2nd
Individuals – 1. Allyson Balmer - Manheim
2. Janelle Geib - Manheim
3. Reese Hissong – James Buchanan
Agronomy
Team – Penns Valley – 1st
Gettysburg– 2nd
Individuals – 1. Matthew Wagner - Gettysburg
2. Shawn Foreman – Penns Valley
3. Austin Wingert – James Buchanan
Aquatics Resources
Individuals – 1. Ethan Yoder – Garden Spot
2. Jen Wood – Oley Valley
3. Cody Kline – Oley Valley
Dairy Cattle Handlers
Individuals – 1. Jared Heisely – Northern Bedford
2. Cortney Hostettler – Northern Lebanon
3. Coy Campbell – Upper Dauphin
4. Cheyenne Maben – Juniata
5. Cody Eller – Northern Bedford
6. Tyler Shaw – Williamsburg
Dairy Cattle Management & Evaluation
Team – Annville Cleona – 1st
Mifflinburg – 2nd
Individuals – 1. Emily Hellinger – Northern Lebanon
2. Amber Kirk - Solanco
3. Vanessa Hostettler – Annville Cleona
Environmental & Natural Resources
Team – Garden Spot – 1st
Oley Valley – 2nd
Farm Business Management
Team – James Buchanan – 1st
Eastern York – 2nd
Individuals – 1. Carson Ocker – James Buchanan
2. Sherri Barr – Eastern York
3. Kiersten Barr – Eastern York
FFA Knowledge
Team – Shippensburg – 1st
Cumberland Valley – 2nd
Individuals – 1. Luke Byers – Shippensburg
2. Raegan Smith – Fort Cherry
3. Brianne Miller – Shippensburg
Floriculture
Team – Northern Bedford– 1st
Monroe Area CTI – 2nd
Individuals – 1. Kristy Heffner - Kutztown
2. Megan Keith – Northern Bedford
3. Abby Smith – Derry
Food Science and Technology
Team – Conrad Weiser – 1st
Oley Valley – 2nd
Individuals – 1. Molly Hudson – Conrad Weiser
2. Kayla Aulenbach – Conrad Weiser
3. Victoria Behm – Oley Valley
Forestry
Team – Wellsboro– 1st
Littlestown – 2nd
Individuals – 1. Laura Young - Wellsboro
2. Cody DeHass - Wellsboro
3. Cheyenne Ward – Littlestown
Horse Evaluation
Team –Midd-West – 1st
Elizabethtown – 2nd
Individuals – 1. Scarlett Loya - McGuffey
2. Emily Eisele – Midd-West
3. Ashley Mount – Troy
Job Interview
Individuals – 1. Halee Wasson – State College
2. Heather Wasson – State College
3. Makenzie Bishop – Juniata
Land Use & Management
Team – Cowanesque Valley – 1st
Central – 2nd
Individuals – 1. Dakota Corwin – Cowanesque Valley
2. Ethan Mead – Cowanesque Valley
3. Tyler Cline – Cowanesque Valley
Livestock Evaluation
Team – Bedford CTC– 1st
Red Lion – 2nd
Individuals – 1. Eric Shoop – Line Mountain
2. Samuel Bacon – Red Lion
3. Madysen Smyers – Bedford CTC
Marketing Plan
Team – Greenwood – 1st
James Buchanan – 2nd
Individuals – 1. Maggie Campbell – Greenwood
2. Luke Gorman - Greenwood
3. Chase Stalvey – Greenwood
Meats Evaluation & Technology
Team – Penn Manor – 1st
Bedford CTC – 2nd
Individuals – 1. Joel Burkholder – Penn Manor
2. Sammy Bleacher – Penn Manor
3. Katey Bleacher – Penn Manor
Milk Quality & Products
Team –Penn Manor – 1st
James Buchanan – 2nd
Individuals – 1. Kayla Hartung – James Buchanan
2. Nathan Phan – Penn Manor
3. Amanda Bauer – Solanco
Nursery & Landscape
Team – Annville Cleona – 1st
Derry – 2nd
Individuals – 1. Lindsay Boyd – Annville Cleona
2. Taylor Shook – Central PA Institute
3. Rebeka Strouse – Annville Cleona
Parliamentary Procedure
Team – Greenwood – 1st
Northern Lebanon – 2nd
Poultry Evaluation
Team – Garden Spot– 1st
Penn Manor - 2nd
Individuals – 1. Grant Sauder – Garden Spot
2. William Horning – Garden Spot
3. Wesley Herr – Penn Manor
Public Speaking - Conservation
Individuals – 1. Jeremy Chen See – Oley Valley
2. Tiffany Lehman – Big Spring
3. Heather Wasson – State College
Public Speaking - Creed
Individuals – 1. Bailey Hoyt – Central Columbia
2. Kelsey Stewart – James Buchanan
3. Jillian Barskey – Conrad Weiser
Public Speaking - Extemporaneous
Individuals – 1. Laura Ritchey – Central High School
2. Katie McLaughlin - Juniata
3. Tony Rice – Midd-West
Public Speaking – Prepared Jr.
Individuals – 1. Taylor Conley – Northern Bedford
2. Hannah Levengood – Oley Valley
3. Mikayla Kutz – Big Spring
Public Speaking – Prepared Sr.
Individuals – 1. Halee Wasson – State College
2. Jackie Arbogast - Midd-West
3. Madison Kauffman – Bellefonte
Safe Tractor Driving
Individuals – 1. Pat Ezzyk – Central Columbia
2. Michael Brostrom - Wellsboro
3. Dustin Bicehouse – Wilmington
Small Gas Engines
Team – Pequea Valley – 1st
Solanco – 2nd
Individuals – 1. Zach Horton – Pequea Valley
2. Adam McQueen – Pequea Valley
3. Zach Eckman – Solanco
Veterinary Science
Team – Lampeter Strasburg – 1st
Derry – 2nd
Individuals – 1. Gina Rivera – Lampeter Strasburg
2. Kelly Harrish – Lampeter Strasburg
3. Megan Retallick - Derry
Wildlife
Individuals – 1. Derick Weaver – Garden Spot
2. Jenna Diehl – Garden Spot
3. Kenny Zeager - Elizabethtown
Scrapbook
Team – Troy – 1st
Northern Lebanon – 2nd
Talent
Individuals – 1. Katie Elder – State College
2. DeAnne Dickerson - McConellsburg
3. Gabreila Baruki – W.B. Saul
2013 National Convention CDE Results
Agricultural Communications
Team – Conococheague FFA – Bronze Award
Individuals – Michaela Suder – Silver Award
Mikayla Barnhart – Silver Award
Austin Wingert – Silver Award
Agricultural Issues Forum
Team – Cumberland Valley FFA – Bronze
Award
Agricultural Sales
Team – Conococheague FFA – Silver Award
Individuals – Sarah Gress – Gold Award
Matthew Brake – Silver Award
Kolbey Stewart – Silver Award
Candice Plessinger – Silver
Award
Agricultural Technology and Mechanical
Systems
Team – Central Mountain FFA – Bronze
Award
Individual – Cameron Porter – Silver Award
Zach Meyer – Bronze Award
Kodey Schenck – Bronze Award
Agronomy
Team – Penn Manor FFA – Silver Award
Individual – Jesse Burkholder – Gold Award
Aaron Breneman – Silver Award
Kayla Major – Silver Award
Katie Hess – Silver Award
Creed Speaking
Individual – Dylan Schoemaker
Conrad Weiser FFA – Bronze
Award
Dairy Cattle Evaluation and Management
Team – Conococheague FFA – Silver Award
Individual – Hannah Horst – Gold Award
Stuart Ocker – Silver Award
Grant Heckman – Bronze Award
Nathan Heckman – Bronze Award
Dairy Handling
Individual – Hannah Riser
New Oxford FFA – Silver Award
Enviromental and Natural Resources
Team – Garden Spot FFA – Gold Award
Individual – Seth Yoder – Gold Award
Benjamin Martin – Silver Award
Michael Bressi – Silver Award
Abbey Martin – Bronze Award
Extemporaneous Public Speaking
Individual – Shawna Weller
West Perry FFA – Bronze Award
Farm Business Management
Team – Manheim FFA – 10th Place Gold Award
Individual – Austin Horning – Gold Award
Janelle Geib – Silver Award
Allyson Balmer – Silver Award
Jared Harnly – Silver Award
Floriculture
Team – Kutztown FFA – Silver Award
Individual – Kayla Fusselman – Gold Award
Kristy Heftner – Silver Award
Katie Eigenbrod – Silver Award
Jessica Sterner – Silver Award
Food Science and Technology
Team – Oley Valley FFA – 3rd Place Gold Award
Individuals – Hali Hoch – 1st Place Gold Award
Callista Miller – Gold Award
Kathryn Bergman – Silver Award
Nichole Lynch – Silver Award
Forestry
Team – Athens FFA – Silver Award
Individual – Samuel Burkett – Gold Award
Austin Jelliff – Gold Award
Caleb Jelliff – Silver Award
Nicholas Vosburg – Silver Award
Horse Evaluation
Team – Big Spring FFA – Silver Award
Individual – Kelsey McKillip – 9th Place Gold
Award
Sienna Gussler – Silver Award
Brittany Olson – Silver Award
Mikayla Kutz – Bronze Award
Job Interview
Individual – Katie Osborne
Greenwood FFA – Silver Award
Livestock Evaluation
Team – Twin Valley FFA – Silver Award
Individual – Lewis Frame – Silver Award
Rachel Wilkoski – Silver Award
Dalton Kubovcsak – Bronze Award
Savannah Lorah – Bronze Award
Milk Quality and Products
Team – Garden Spot FFA – Silver Award
Individual – Bethany Sauder – Gold Award
Ethan Yoder – Gold Award
Nathan Moyer – Silver Award
Jessica Zimmerman – Silver Award
Nursery/ Landscape
Team – W.B. Saul FFA – Silver Award
Individual – Mohammad Abuawadeh – Silver Award
Damond Powell – Silver Award
Doung Lau – Silver Award
Keleaf Johnson – Bronze Award
Poultry
Team – Penn Manor FFA – Gold Award
Individual – Sammy Bleacher – Gold Award
Katey Bleacher – Gold Award
Emily Witmer – Gold Award
Chad Goshert – Silver Awar
Veterinary Science –
Team – Technical College-Chester Co. FFA – Silver
Award
Individual – Samantha Read – Gold Award
Mayra Quiroz – Silver Award
Daniel Jansen – Silver Award
Megan Ramsey – Silver Award
Prepared Public Speaking
Individual – Tony Rice
Midwest FFA – Silver Award
Parliamentary Procedure
Team - Cumberland Valley FFA – Gold Award
Profiency Winner – Agri-Science ReasearchAnimal Systems
Individual – Katie Osborne
Greenwood FFA – National Winner
National FFA Chorus
Katie Anderson
Southern Huntingdon Co. FFA
Talent
Grace Kensinger and Emily Stoltzfus, Emazing Grace
Manheim FFA– Top three overall placing
SAE Grant Winners
Carmen Becker – Elizabethtown*
Kevin Dressler – Selinsgrove*
Garrett Jenkins – Elizabethtown*
Timothy Kaltenbach Jr. – Grand Canyon*
* - $1,000 from Rabo AgriFinance
Agri-Science Fair
Individual – Shawna Weller
West Perry FFA – 2nd Place Overall
Individual – Libby Baker-Mikesell
Greenwood FFA – 2nd Place Overall
National Chapter Program Recognition
Three Stars
Cedar Crest
Central Columbia
Conococheague
Danville
Greenwood
Juniata
Midd-West
Mifflinburg
Northern Lebanon
Penn Manor
Twin Valley
Two Stars
Big Spring
Meyersdale
Selinsgrove
National FFA Scholarship
Recipients
President: Katie McLaughlin
Chapter: Juniata
SAE Program: Beef Entrepreneurship
Favorite CDE: Prepared Public Speaking
Inspiration: Advisors
Quote: “You can’t change the cards you’re dealt,
just how you play the hand” - Randy Pausch
Reporter: Matthew Brake
Vice President: Tony Rice
Chapter: Conococheague
Chapter: Midd-West
SAE Program: Ag Services, Dairy Placement
SAE Program: Beef, Corn, Pumpkins, and On
Favorite CDE: Ag Sales
Farm Experience
Inspiration: Family, Mr. Hoffeditz
Favorite CDE: Prepared Public Speaking
Quote: “If you don't build your dreams, someone
Inspiration: Brother, Tyler Rice
else will hire you to build theirs” - Tony Gaskins Jr.
Quote: “Not only can you not plan the impact
you’re going to have, you often won’t recognize it Sentinel: Mara Tate
even while you’re having it” – Richard Costolo
Chapter: Athens
SAE Program: Quilting & Gardening
Secretary: Victoria Herr
Favorite CDE: Livestock Evaluation or Prepared
Chapter: Manor
Public Speaking
SAE Program: Swine & Beef Entrepreneurship
Inspiration: Her family
Favorite CDE: Poultry Judging
Quote: “I am who I am today because of the
Inspiration: Her Parents & Mr. Fellenbaum
choices I made yesterday” - Eleanor Roosevelt
Quote: 1 Timothy 4:12—Don’t let anyone look
down on you because you are young, but set an
Chaplain: Grant Carlton
example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in Chapter: Greenwood
love, in faith, and in purity.
SAE Program: Agricultural Services
Favorite CDE: Parli Pro
Treasurer: Lisa Boltz
Inspiration: My relationship with Christ
Chapter: Northern Lebanon
Quote: “The best way to cheer yourself up, is by
SAE Program: Pleasure Horse
cheering someone else up” - Mark Twain
Favorite CDE: Tie between Floriculture and Horse
Judging
Inspiration: The people who have pushed her to
be who she truly is.
Quote: “Live free, Love forever.” – Lisa Boltz
State President
2013-2014
Let’s go on a journey to my first ever chapter visit
at Selinsgrove FFA. I was a young state officer, and I was
nervous for my first ever chapter visit. I was paired with
Michala Kuhlman to educate a class of handicapped students with special needs where most of the students needed
alternative methods in order to communicate. As Michala
and I taught the class, we realized the students were as
happy as can be when we sat down and just talked to them.
A simple gesture that we quickly learned was the easiest
way to connect with them and other people too. As the class
ended, we said good-bye to the students and we finished up
our first chapter visit, but the memory stayed with me.
When I look back on this day, I remember this was
the moment where I learned one of my most valuable lessons as a State FFA Officer and a person:
everyone is important in their own way. Throughout this year, the state officers have opportunities to
network with big companies, see FFA members from every walk of life, and travel to the ends of
Pennsylvania and back, but the one thing that remained the same were the people we met. From the
CEOs to the freshmen members, everybody shares the same feelings and emotions about life and
connecting with other people. All it takes is a friendly smile and a simple conversation to show that
you are willing to connect with them, to make them feel important.
As my year draws to an end, I will be taking this life lesson with me to wherever I end up,
and I challenge every FFA member to do so with me. Imagine a world where everyone is important for
something. Brian is important because he loves tractors. Alicia matters because she enjoys working
with animals. Jason is important because he loves floriculture, or Judy is special because she wants to
work on engines. The question is not why somebody is important but rather how somebody is important, and it is our challenge to find out why.
Thank you Pennsylvania FFA for allowing me to serve you this year. You all are important
to me and will forever hold a place in my heart.
Love now and always,
Christopher Adam Toevs
Cumberland Valley FFA Chapter
State Vice President
2013-2014
The 2013-2014 State Office year was one of the best years of
my life. From being elected and standing on stage to chapter
visits this year. I couldn't have wanted anything more. The
year started at Activities Week at Penn State. From there,
our slow schedules were thrown out the door. We soon were
attending BLASTOFF, a training exercise to learn the basics
of being a state officer. Before you know it we were leading
conferences and meeting members. Chapter visits weren't far
behind. Visiting over 20 schools, I met many members. We
attended the Big E and actually helped with CDEs for a few
days. While there, we attended the final banquet to learn the
results of all CDEs. Pennsylvania won the Sweepstakes Banner, meaning overall we had the most highest placing teams.
National Convention in Kentucky was another amazing trip. I had the opportunity to serve as a
delegate at a National Level. Being a National delegate, we were put in specific committees to discuss
changes members would like to see be made. Before we knew it ACES was upon us. Seeing 1400
members over 3 weekends was a great thought to have in our mind as we led workshops on various
aspects of FFA. Seeing all these members and talking with them only made me love State Office
more.
SLLC was another large conference for us. From facilitating all these conferences before, I was confident in not only my abilities but the teams as a whole to lead this group of students the right way.
We worked with them to teach them Parliamentary Procedure, how a bill becomes a law and etiquette.
The students from that point took the conference into their own hands as they began to debate bills. I
got to step back and watch these members talking about bills as if they were on the Congressfloor
debating them for themselves.
This year as a whole has been the greatest year of my life. Meeting members at chapter visits to doing the Cupid shuffle with them at National convention. These Pennsylvania members have made
this year great. They have shown me the diversity of the organization, not only across the state But
across the nation. Watching members I've met at a visit or a conference expand their knowledge on
FFA and Leadership shows that today's youth still wants to be involved in agriculture and that has
made this year worth while.
Thanks For the Memories,
Stephen Paul Winklosky
Derry FFA Chapter
State Secretary
2013-2014
In January of 2009 at the Pennsylvania FFA’s MidWinter Convention, the Alumni Association instructed
me to put on crisp, shiny blue corduroy jacket, that had
my name on it, but more importantly than that it said
Elizabethtown on the back. Little did I know all of the
places and experiences that Elizabethtown jacket would
take me. To name a few I have traveled to Springfield,
Massachusetts for Dairy Handling and Dairy Foods, it
took me to Indianapolis, Indiana to experience the National FFA Convention and to 5 Pennsylvania FFA Conventions. All the experiences and people I have met along
the way inspired me to give back to an organization that
gave me so much, even if this time of service could only
be 365 days, as I reflect upon those 365 days, there are
not words to descried how thankful I am to have worn out, that once crisp, shiny blue corduroy jacket
with the word Association on the back.
Thank you Pennsylvania FFA Members for all the chapter visits, attending conferences, area, regional, and chapter events you invited me to be a part of, those were where some of my best memories
were made and the reasons that a once crisp, shiny and finely pressed blue corduroy jacket is now a
faded shade of blue with wrinkles that could share thousands of stories. Keep being the best FFA
members around and continue to Build Your Future!
Your 2013-2014 Pennsylvania FFA Secretary
Deidra Elizabeth Bollinger
Elizabethtown FFA Chapter
State Treasurer
2013-2014
Traveling, driving, hitting the road, whatever you call it we as state officers do not stay in
place for very long. This year can be summed up
into a year of here and there while going everywhere and stopping for this but not forgetting
about doing that, traveling is what has made the
best memories from this year and also some of the
most stressful parts of the year. Whether we were
driving alone or riding shoulder to shoulder in the
Astro Van we left a lot of memories across the state
of Pennsylvania. Everyone can say they have visited every corner of the state between chapter visits,
industry visits, or any other crazy task we may
have. We can cross of our bucket lists New York,
New Jersey, Tennessee, Washington D.C., Kentucky, and Maryland for our duties have taken us
across state lines and into different cities and rural areas. The destination is always great but seeing members from Pennsylvania and across the
country is always a mile stone achievement although this is not easily achieved. Sometimes we get
lost, a road is closed, we get stuck behind a tractor and end up a little late, don’t rush, much like
driving life is unpredictable and those crazy unplanned events turn out to be the best times of your
life. Much like we cannot predict clear driving conditions for our commutes, you don’t always know
how your FFA journey or your life will map out, sit back relax and leave no “what ifs” in your past.
Whether your argument is soda or pop, Whoppie Pie or Gob, or maybe you know the correct pronunciation of Lancaster take time to experience our beautiful state like the seven of us have had a chance
to and you will have a hard time deciding which county is your favorite. East to West, North to
South, mountains or river banks our beautiful state will take your breath way and if doesn’t the
smell of manure sure will.
Forever and Always,
Lena Marie Bioni
McGuffey FFA Chapter
State Reporter
2013-2014
I remember my senior year of high school, when I
attended State Convention after graduation. I remember
thinking that that would be the last State Convention that I
would ever have the opportunity to attend. I remember thinking about how much I wanted to run for State Office that
year but it just didn’t seem to fit anywhere into my plans. I
thought that was it, I thought it was h end to my career in
the FFA. Little did I realize that I still had time left.
I went to college in the fall and I knew I was missing something, and I knew it was FFA. I realized that
pretty quickly so I decided to apply to be a Second Year
Scholar for SLLC. I was surprised when I got it, and I am
thankful every day that I did. For me being a Second Year
Scholar was the stepping stone that I needed to continue on
and run for State Office. The next few months were full of doubt for me; they were full of “should I
submit my application”, “should I pull my application”, and thinking “I’m never going to get an
office”. I ended up attending an additional State Convention, after the one that I thought was my
last, and I’m glad I did.
This past year has meant more than anyone could ever imagine to me. This year has been all
about service and Gandhi said it best, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service
of others.” Before this year I felt lost with where I was going next in life. College was a struggle for
me, my major didn’t seem to fit me right, and I knew going straight into the workforce wasn’t for
me, so where was my next move, what was I going to do? I had no idea. Being able to serve this organization and being able to serve the members of it, losing myself in that service, pointed me in the
right direction.
As my year of serving draws to a close, and we come up on yet another State Convention
(that marks a second one I never thought I would attend!) I think about the members who have helped
me to grow more than they could ever realize, the advisors who have helped me along the way, the
Brammer’s and my team who I couldn’t have made it through this year without, and everyone else I
have encountered along the way who have impacted me more than they could ever realize……….Thank you. This year may have been all about how I could serve others as an Officer, but
one thing that is often over looked is how State Office can serve you.
Thank you all for this year, it was more than I expected, but everything I needed.
Thank you,
Kayla Marie Wallace
United FFA Chapter
State Sentinel
2013-2014
All through my life people have told me that time flies, I
can think of some times that it seamed to stand still like
when, I was waiting in that huddle at the previous State
Convention waiting to see if my name was going to be
called, I was trying to balance equations in high school, or
debating important matters during a Pennsylvania FFA
Board Of Directors meeting. However, anytime you sit
back and reflect on what has happened in life it seems to
have gone by quickly and you forget all the hard times.
That is on of the important lessons that I have learned after this incredible year of service
I have learned so much from each member that I have met
during this year. The nearly 12,000 members have shown
me that it is okay to fall but the most important thing is
getting back up and learning from your mistakes. Whenever I was conversing with a member I would try to listen
to their dreams and aspirations and let them know to never give up on their dreams. This is a timeless truth that we can all live by. We never know when success is right around the corner and if you
give up, you will always fail.
“All our sweetest hours fly fastest” – Virgil. Is the quote that comes to mind when I take the time to
sit back and reflect on the year full of Board Meetings, Team memories, and conversations with
members. The past 8760 hours have been full of the best memories, stories and above all life lessons.
Thank you Pennsylvania FFA for allowing me to serve selflessly this year.
Best Wishes,
Austin Shay
Milton Hershey FFA Chapter
State Chaplain
2013-2014
Two thousand six, was the year that I decided I was going
to run for a position on the Pennsylvania State FFA Officer team. As I watched my older sister, Abbie as she
would go off to numerous events throughout the year and
meet some pretty amazing people along the way, I knew
that was something I wanted to do. I had always looked
up to my sister so it was no surprise when I followed in
her foot steps to join the FFA, in 2007. Joining my seventh grade year was the best decision I could have ever
made. It was from the first day I walked into my ag
room that my passion for the FFA took off.
It was those defining moments with my sister and my
first day in FFA that lead me up to state convention last
June. Going through the state officer selection process was
one of the most nerve racking experiences of my life but in the end it was all worth it. At the time
my name was called to serve at the 2013-2014 state FFA chaplain, I could not have been more excited
for the year ahead of me.
Now as this year has come to an end all I can think is wow, where has the year gone, I still feel as if I
just walked into my first FFA meeting. As quick as the time has gone I can truly say this year will
be a year that I will never forget and that has truly allowed me to continue building my future. I
have learned a lot about myself and what it means to serve others through the various events of the
year. It has been a pleasure getting to watch members as well as myself grow throughout the year. I
was honored to have made six of the best friends a person could ask for while serving on a team with
them. I can honestly say this year has had an impact on me that is unexplainable and has pointed
me in the direction of Agricultural Education for my future career.
Sincerely Yours,
Michala Noel Kuhlman
Northeast Bradford FFA Chapter