Thursday, November 20, 2008

By Franklin FFA Reporter Danielle Saathoff

The Franklin FFA chapter sent 12 members to the 80th National FFA Convention held in Indianapolis, IN. The Franklin members left bright and early October 23, and didn’t return until very, very early October 28.

The members started off Wednesday, their first full day at the convention, by exploring the career fair. This was followed up by a tour of the National FFA Center and a leadership workshop on communication in today’s high tech world. Members were able to attend the Convention Session with motivational speaker Rick Rigsby. The night was topped-off with an exciting concert by Danielle Peck and Montgomery Gentry.

Thursday was just as busy for the Franklin members. They heard the retiring address of Kacy Baugher, National Officer. They also had to receive a few rather prestigious awards. The fun for that night was a hypnotist. Friday was all hustle-and-bustle as the members first had to attend a Convention session. This session had offered the retiring address of Janette Barnard, National Officer, and Motivational speaker Chad Hymas. Hymas became a quadriplegic after a farm accident. He didn’t let that stop him; he has become a world class wheelchair athlete. After that amazing session, the member once again ventured into the career fair. The final Convention session of the day had another National Officer address and the National Proficiency winners were named. PRCA Extreme Bull Riding got the FFAers blood pumping as they ended their busy day.

Saturday was the last day in Indianapolis. Before leaving, Franklin attended the American Degree Ceremony. Two Franklin FFA members received this honorable award.

The tired Franklin FFA members loaded their bus Saturday, but not empty handed. This year the Franklin FFA Chapter was National Chapter 3 Star Award. Brock Sindt and Taylor Randall had the honor of showing off the Franklin Chapter to a panel of judges, and their hard work paid-off. The Franklin Chapter was one of the Top 10 National Models of Innovation finalists. National Proficiency Finalist, Derrick Rocker, brought home the gold. Derrick won in the area of Small Animal Production. Last, but certainly not least, were Jena Johnson and Mike Bartels. Jena and Mike were both recipients of the American Degree. The members, awards intact, had a long ride home.