ITHACA, N.Y. — Breezy days filled the winter months of November and December. During this time period the NYS FFA escaped the world of reality and dove into the cinematic world, filling the days with warm events. Our State Vice President, Triana Burgos-Farnan, hosted Holiday Movie Watch Parties throughout the holiday season bringing members together to enjoy each other’s company. Members were able to watch old classics such as Home Alone, and enjoy the beautiful animation of Frozen, along with other movies that signified the holiday season for many.
A sea of 700 blue jackets were united in the month of November, for the very first 2020 Virtual CDE/LDE Experience. Members were able to learn and practice from Career and Leadership Development Events for any future events. Over the course of twelve days, 35 chapters participated in twelve different events including Poultry, Meat Evaluation, Livestock Evaluation, Prepared Public Speaking, Welding, Extemporaneous Public Speaking, Agricultural Communications, Nursery/Landscape, Floriculture, Wildlife ID, Conduct of Chapter Meetings, and lastly Discussion Meet. Thank you to all the judges who took the time out of their day to attend each competition. A big Thank You to Mandi Millen, Erin Smith, Seth Browe, Molly Huttar, Roger Barkman, Megan Golden, Tara Berescik, Nichole Hirt, Jen Phelps, Morgan Boerman, Johanna Bossard, Carlie Bossard the coordinators who were able to come up with the content and materials, secure judges, and accommodate to the virtual platform.
NYS FFA District 6 Update
By Aubree Domagala, District VI President
Due to these troubling times, members across the state have had to develop a new perspective on participation in FFA. No surprise the hardworking members of District 6 were up for the challenge. This past summer, District 6 had a month full of FFA virtual summer activities. Members had the opportunity to take virtual tours of local businesses, as well as compete in virtual CDE/LDE competitions. Many members were awarded for their outstanding participation and knowledge throughout the weeks. This was a great way for the members of District 6 to stay in touch over the summer as well as challenge themselves and grow as members.
During the month of October, the 93rd National FFA Convention was held. This year’s convention looked different than it has in past years. This was the first ever virtual convention and the members of District 6 took full advantage. Many students attended workshops, sessions, and the blue room. Although we were not able to spend our normal full week together, we watched the night sessions together on Zoom for a District 6 National Convention Watch Party.
I would like to recognize the students who received recognition during the National Convention. For the 2020 National FFA Proficiency awards in Agricultural Service, Kenneth Tremble from Indian River FFA was awarded bronze. In Dairy Production Katelynn Burger of Belleville Henderson FFA was awarded Bronze. In Equine Science-Placement Garret Narrigan of Indian River FFA was awarded Bronze. In Sheep Production Michaela Stephens of Carthage FFA was awarded silver. For the 2020 National FFA Star Chapter Award South Jefferson received two stars. Congratulations to all recipients and keep up the great work District 6!
Member Spotlight
Hanna Lighthall is a Sophomore in high school and is the Vice President of the Beaver River FFA Chapter. Though only a sophomore, this is Hanna’s sixth year of being in FFA and she has taken every opportunity that she can. Hanna has had many achievements within FFA, but when asked what her greatest was, she replied winning first place in the senior high tree identification contest in 2019. Hanna’s SAE combines her love for nature and working outdoors. Hanna cares for an herb garden in the winter and a fully functioning garden in the summer. During the pandemic Hanna has been able to focus more on her SAE, it has helped her to stay motivated as well as learn more about plants from the seed to a mature plant. Hanna has also volunteered at the Adironduck Race, school, and chapter events. Hanna’s charismatic personality helps make her a strong leader and brings out the best in everyone who meets her. According to Hanna, “I strive to meet new people everywhere I go and have a positive impact on their life.” Hanna has continuously been a role model to all members and has shown all the characteristics a strong leader should possess. Hanna has a unique perspective of FFA. By growing up heavily involved at Oswegatchie, the NY FFA Camp, she has developed a different perspective compared to other members. One benefit is that Hanna has been able to meet many students from other chapters and is eager to learn about them. Great job Hanna, keep up the great work!
FFA makes a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agriculture education. For more information regarding FFA, please visit either www.nysffa.org or www.ffa.org.
–Citlali Hernandez
NY FFA State Reporter 2020-2021
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