FFA National Officers' Blog

Chelsea's Travels: FFA Week in Washington

cdoss@ffa.org (Chelsea Doss) — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 21:56:00 +0000

FFA WEEK IN WASHINGTON STATE

FFA Week in Washington was a blast! The entire state is beautiful and it didn't even rain while I was there until the last hour of the last day. Is that good luck or what? Washington is notorious for their rain. Other than that, Washington grows high amounts of apples, grapes, and other crops. Learning about WA agriculture was great. Meeting WA FFA members was even better.

First stop: White River

Just trust me...this will be fun.

Larry Gossen from National FFA tag teamed Washington with me. As you can see, he had a good time!

Pizza with Sumner officers Eric, Cassandra, Jordan, Becca, Katlyn, and Tristin. Michelle and Victoria, WA State Officers made several stops with us, including this stop in Sumner.

There's always time for cupcakes.

Group picture with a Sumner group who participated in my workshop.

These twins were so cute, I had to take a picture with them.

Check out the spear Rochester gave me. We took tours of the program and met parents at a dinner.

Centralia FFA officers and advisor

Ranier FFA showing off their very cool chapter t shirt

Common sight in Washington

Quick chapter officer workshop at Prosser FFA

Grandview FFA

Washington State University Experiment Station

They focus on irrigation systems and grow other crops like blueberries, hops, and flowers as well.

THE SEATTLE SPACE NEEDLE! It was so tall. (Good time to note that I'm a tiny bit terrified of heights!) It was a great view of the city and the water.

Dinner in the Space Needle with 1 of the greatest executive secretaries I've met - Jodi Monroe, her husband Rich, Mr. Gilman, and Mr. Gossen. I had fresh salmon and crab macaroni & cheese.

Mini donuts at Pike's Place

Luckily, Michelle and Victoria helped me eat them. They were good!

What's up doc?

The nation's first Starbucks. I'm not a Starbucks drinker, but it was interesting anyway.

Jodi found a friend at the market.

The Adventures of Alex

noreply@blogger.com (Alex) — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 23:50:00 +0000

National FFA Week: New Mexico Edition

Here's a recap of my 1,400-mile trip through The Land of Enchantment in pictures! And there's more where this came from! Check out my Facebook page too.

Monday

I visited the San Juan County Fair Grounds in Farmington and had the chance to meet awesome members from the Shiprock, Aztec and Durango FFA chapters! They were an enthusiastic group that's for sure. The Shiprock Chapter made us some tasty Navajo tacos for lunch :)

Tuesday

Mr. Gill and I traveled to Las Vegas (New Mexico- not the one with a CSI) and met with the SUPER fun, active Las Vegas FFA Chapter. Mr. Ledger took us out for blue corn enchiladas with delicious green chile at the Plaza. Students gave up their snow delay to meet with us and I thoroughly enjoyed their homemade cookies! As you can see, some of the hardcore members dyed their hair for FFA Week.

After Las Vegas, we made a trip to Santa Rosa where we met with community and school leaders for lunch. I spent the afternoon having tons of fun with the Santa Rosa and Tucumcari FFA Chapters while we talked about living our values. State officers Ryan and Tell took us to the famous Blue Hole too!

Wednesday

We spent the middle of FFA week on the largest high school campus in the nation with the Carlsbad FFA Chapter cavemen! I got to meet all of the agriculture education classes and co-present with New Mexico State FFA Officers Dusty and Joseph. The Loving FFA Chapter joined us for awhile, sporting their really cool chapter officer polos.

Then we drove to Artesia for the annual chapter pie supper! I ate wayyyyy too much pie and had a ton of fun getting to know their chapter and community members. Man, can they cook!

Thursday

I spent the morning meeting faculty and staff at the New Mexico FFA Center and New Mexico State University. I got to talk with one of their agriculture education classes and discuss the future of agriculture and agriculture education. The future looks bright with the passion and enthusiasm those students bring to the classroom!

Then we drove to Deming to meet with their middle school and high school FFA members. We had some fun in a workshop and then went out to lunch. The chapter officers laughed pretty hard when I turn as red as a fire hydrant and started sweating after taking too big a bite of my tamale!

Friday

My last day of FFA Week, I spent with the chapter who welcomed me at the airport: the Moriarty FFA Chapter! Their enthusiasm, "Happy Friday" cheer and motivated chapter officer team ended my week with a bang!

Overall, I couldn't have asked for a better week! The people were phenomenal. The chapters were fantastic. And the food was... HOT (but delicious)! Thanks for welcoming me with kindness and teaching me all about passion, enthusiasm and the age old question, red or green (chile)?

Levy's Latest: Chase Singing Brick House

noreply@blogger.com (Levy Randolph) — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 19:38:00 +0000

Levy's Latest: FFA Week in South Carolina

noreply@blogger.com (Levy Randolph) — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 18:30:00 +0000

Good morning and greetings from South Carolina! First off, Happy Belated FFA Week! This past week has been one that has been full of amazing, interesting, and valuable experiences. I had great time traveling with Mr. Keith Cox, South Carolina Executive Secretary, and Mrs. Nina Crutchfield, National FFA Staff.

We kicked off the week with dinner at Dr. Dobbins’ house and were joined by the Clemson Collegiate FFA Officers and two State FFA Vice Presidents. Monday was our official first day, full of interaction with FFA members, as we traveled to West Oak High School and Saluda High School. Both schools took me on a tour around their facilities and I was just amazed at some of the opportunities that some of these students are exposed to! After our visit to Saluda, we had a dinner at Piedmont Technical College and were joined by neighboring chapters (Thurmond, Laurens, Abbeyville, and Ridge Springs).
On Tuesday we found ourselves at Midland Valley High School, who was also recently recognized as having a Top Adult Agricultural Education Program. They were presented with a Toyota Tundra on Wednesday and recognized by a Representative from their district. While at the school, we toured their program’s facilities, and learned a little bit about their shooting team, agriscience fair projects, and their courses that students are offered. Midland Valley also had an amazing greenhouse which served as a premiere experiential learning center for their students. You wouldn’t believe how many hands started shooting up to ask me questions when they found out I saw a possum for the first time this week!

After Midland Valley, we headed to Lexington County Technology Center, and the neat thing about this Ag Program was that every student, while in class, had a computer provided to them to use. I have continually been impressed to see what the students have had available to them at these programs and it has been refreshing to see the students so excited about agriculture, agricultural education, and FFA. Lexington High School FFA had put on a banquet for us after the tour and invited the Pelion, Gilbert, Batesburg-Leesville, and Swansea FFA Chapters. Attendance was wonderful and the support was incredible.

Wednesday was a busy day filled with walking around the Capitol and joining 750 FFA Members from across the state on the steps of the Capitol to celebrate FFA Week with the Senators and Representatives. This was the 15th Annual South Carolina Legislature Appreciation Day. This entire day served as a great way for FFA members to get into the offices of their representatives and not only share their appreciation, but also share their stories and what FFA and Agricultural Education have done for them! I encourage all of you, if you ever get the chance and you are in South Carolina during FFA Week, to see this wonderful event!
Thursday was such a day to remember as I was fortunate to visit the largest chapter in South Carolina, Manning High School FFA. As we drove in to the school their members were lined on both sides of the road all the way to our parking space and they released blue and gold balloons into the air! It was such a sight to see. After, I went on a tour of their Ag. Dept. and their entire school and then we attended a luncheon where they recognized three individuals with the Honorary Chapter Degree and I was fortunate enough to be a part of it. Then we headed over to Lakewood High School, where I had a smaller group but nonetheless so welcoming! The students were so excited, and I had such a wonderful time delivering a workshop and learning about the chapter over dinner as well! I also will forever remember Lakewood as the chapter where I drove my first tractor! Thank you for the memories y'all!

Friday was the last day of my time there in South Carolina, and I had a lot in store with my visits to McBee High School and Indian Land High School. At McBee I was recognized as an Honorary Chapter Member! What a privilege! Thank you for that, and after breakfast and speaking with the chapter, I had a small opportunity to visit with a freshman class! A lot of them reminded me of when I was a freshman! And finally at Indian Land I had the chance to interact with the students and play a lot of team building experiences! There school facilities were amazing and they are growing which only makes for a great combination! I’m pumped and I have been soaking it all in because there was only one FFA Week of 2010 and South Carolina FFA, well, y'all made it one to remember! Thank you so much!

Randa's Journey- FFA week Wisconsin!

noreply@blogger.com (Randa Braune) — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 17:34:00 +0000

WISCONSIN FFA

Hey Friends!

First of all I hope your FFA week was amazing! I was fortunate enough to spend my week in the Badger state of Wisconsin. Throughout the week I was able to travel with some awesome state officers, visit schools and chapters, meet representatives and try some sweet Wisconsin foods!

Our week started off in Madison where I met with State Superintendent of Public Instruction: Dr. Tony Evers, Wisconsin Secretary of Agriculture:Mr. Rod Nilsestuen and several state Representatives. The meetings were extremely informative as I learned just how diverse agriculture is in Wisconsin from their dairy farms to the vegetable production and even their cranberry production! It was exciting to see how different it was from Texas. I was also able to attend the Rural School Libraries and Communities Award Ceremony where I met some Wisconsin FFA members who are hard at work!

Throughout the week I traveled with the Wisoconsin FFA officers who are extremely talented and motivating. Watching BJ, Jessica, Caitlin, Tyler, Jeanie, Adam, Andy, Alicia, Kim, Kirsten and Leah present and interact with students was a true example of the talent that Wisconsin has. We worked with students from Sauk Prarie, Whitehall, Arcadia, and Spencer just to name a few! While there FFA members and ag teachers gave me my first German brat, Cheese curds, Sundrop, Culvers custard and Mr. Hicken (state staff) even allowed me to go sledding!!! What a phenomenal experience for a Southern girl! The week finished off with the Farm Bureau Farm Forum where students come to learn more about agriculture and their role.

Overall Wisconsin was a highlight of the year and I appreciate all the people who made the week such a success! Thank you to Mr. Frederick, National staff who traveled with us, Mr. Hicken and Mrs. Zimmerman who planned a great week and BJ for always getting us where we needed to be. Thank you to all Wisconsin Ag teachers and students for all that you do, keep it up and I can't wait to come visit Wisconsin again in the fall!

My first German Brat!

State Officers, BJ and Jessica presenting to chapters

FFA Members and state officers at a Conference in Whitehall!

Spencer FFA Chapter officers! Winners of the Positive Influence Song Contest!

Bethany's Blessings- FFA Week in Connecticut Pt. 1

noreply@blogger.com (Bethany) — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 21:20:00 +0000

Top 4 BEST Things about FFA Week
in Connecticut

1.) Wear our blue jackets with PRIDE.

2.) S-c-r-e-a-m "Lead Out Loud" at the top of our lungs!

3.) Tell everyone we know about our PASSION

4.) Meet amazing FFA members from Suffield, Housatonic Valley, and Glastonbury, and E.O. Smith FFA chapters!

AWESOME Things I've done with CT FFA members so far.

*Watched the unveiling of the world's longest bar of goat soap!

*Made Goat Soap

*Read "The Goat Lady" to a group of 2nd graders

* Toured a 900 head dairy farm

*Saw how 'Cow Pots' are made (check out your local lawn and garden shop to buy, these items that were featured on Mike Rowe's "Dirty Jobs"

*Pet a Chinchilla

*Learned about your SAEs from volunteering at animal shelters to working in a limestone quarry (aka 'crushing rocks')

*Met hundreds of alumni that believe in you

*Been inspired by your

GREAT-ness!

Chelsea's Travels: Pictures from Japan

cdoss@ffa.org (Chelsea Doss) — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 19:20:00 +0000

Chelsea's Travels: Lessons Learned In Japan

cdoss@ffa.org (Chelsea Doss) — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 15:36:00 +0000

Room to stretch. Americans are fortunate to have ample space and resources. There are approximately 13 million citizens in the Tokyo area. Tokyo is 844 square miles. The state of Tennessee has approximately 6 million citizens and is 42,169 square miles; you do the math!

American Ag is needed. Japan relies on foreign sources for 60% of their diet, leaving countries like the US with a great responsibility to grow food and export. Some of the challenges we face as Americans is the perception of quality in Japan. Japan is very proud of the agricultural goods they produce and perceive their products to be the very best. Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) are viewed as "unfamiliar and possibly unsafe". Of course, American farmers practice genetic modification often. So what does that mean for us FFA members? We have to learn about GMOs and be ready to share the positive message of GMOs with the public.

Our tastes are very different. If you ever go to Japan be prepared to eat a wide variety of fish, rice, noodles, vegetables, and everything in between. My taste buds got a big dose of Japan. Let's just say, sushi is an acquired taste. Ask me about the Tsukiji fish market - it was cool!

Use the bathroom before you go. Check out the toilets. We were intrigued, mystified, and just plain confused when it came to the toilets. I heard about this before going, but I had no idea what to expect, so I thought I'd share this with everyone who hasn't been to Japan and may never get the chance to go.

Catching up with Chase

noreply@blogger.com (Chase Rose) — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 04:19:00 +0000

Hello Friends,

Japan marks my seventh different country I have had the opportunity to travel to. Each overseas adventure comes with a unique lesson and Japan is no exception. The most important lesson that I gained from the experience to Japan was the perfection in which the Japanese people did everything and the drive to serve people. Every company that we visited had an overwhelming desire to perform to perfection and truly serve their customer. I think that it is just a reminder that their is room for improvement in everything that we do on a daily basis.
With Japan behind us I am SOOOO EXCITED for FFA Week!! I will be in the great state of Pennsylvania, FFA members get ready National FFA Week is here!

Randa's Journey- Japan!

noreply@blogger.com (Randa Braune) — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 04:07:00 +0000

Hello everyone!

The experience in Japan was hands down one of the best things I have ever had the chance to do in my life. The culture and generosity of the people truly exemplified what it means to take pure joy in life and I learned several life lessons from this concept. For example:

Taking time for others especially during meals.-Our first meal in Japan!

Being proud and embracing their culture and traditions.-Japanese Tea ceremony

Hospitality is extremely important!-Mitsui representatives

Family is priceless!-My host sister, Sayuka

The underlying theme that I learned the most from the Japanese is simply to embrace the simple joys in life!It was an experience that I will never forget and I'm grateful for the opportunity to meet such kind, hospitable people.

Bethany's Blessings- FFJ Members

noreply@blogger.com (Bethany) — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 04:00:00 +0000

Walking into our first FFJ meeting we quickly noticed many differences.

They have a different emblem that features a dove, rice, and a mountain. Their official dress looks quite different than our own. And we couldn't understand anything that they were saying in Japanese.

Yet despite all of these differences the members welcomed us. They taught us their FFJ dance. (YES! They have a dance!) Sharing the school farm, gardens, and greenhouses with our team, we had our eyes opened to the amazing students these members are!

During free time we played games, learned origami, and traded business cards with the members. In the end, we had made memories and connections with these members just as we would in any FFA chapter here in our organization.

The time we spent with these FFJ members was a highlight for me during our time in Japan. We couldn't speak the same language, just catching names was a challenge, but we created bonds that were extremely unique. The amount of energy and kindness that could be communicated without a spoken language is a lesson I'll always remember.

As laughter carried throughout the room, smiles spread across faces, and cultures blended together we saw a friendship born that would be greater than we could have imagined.

The Adventures of Alex: Japan Recap

noreply@blogger.com (Alex) — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 03:59:00 +0000

After some time to reflect on our team’s trip to Japan, the biggest lesson I’ve learned from the Japanese culture is the art of courtesy. I’m not just talking about saying “thank you” (domo arigato) or “excuse me” (sumimasen); rather, the Japanese people that we came into contact with ensured that every little detail of our trip was treated with the utmost attention, forethought and care. At every hotel, visit and tour I felt more like a VIP than small-town Michigander Alex Henry.

Courtesy Case #1: It is customary for Americans to wait for everyone at their table to be served before eating. But, in Japan restaurant guests begin eating as soon as their food arrives at the table. Why? Cooks and restaurant staff in Japan rush food to their customers moments after it's done cooking, piping hot and fresh.

Courtesy Case #2: A few days into our trip, we stayed at a traditional Japanese hotel called the Ryokan. We enjoyed sleeping on tatami mats, eating traditional Japanese feasts and wearing gorgeous yukatas (casual Japanese robes). But what really blew me away were the welcome and goodbye receptions hosted by the hotel’s staff. When we arrived, we were met by two men in suits ready to help us with our things. Three women in kimonos were waiting for us at the door and ushered us into a tea room where they took our drink orders, offered us sweets and explained all the services the hotel offered.
Our departure from the Ryokan was just as special. Two men in suits loaded our things on the bus and all of the staff we had met throughout our stay gathered to bow to each of us as we loaded the bus. While we settled into our seats, each member of the staff loaded the bus to say their personalized thank you and goodbye. After 10 minutes of goodbyes, we pulled away and waved and bowed to the staff until they were out of sight. All of the Ryokan employees stood outside in the snow and freezing temperatures for at least 15 minutes to say thank you, wish us a pleasant trip and wave to us until our bus disappeared into the distance. The staff at the Ryokan refined courtesy into an art form.

Courtesy Case #3: During our home stay, my family asked me 100 questions the first night I arrived. I answered everything from my favorite breakfast food to my favorite things to do in my free time. When I woke up the next morning, I found three bags of cereal (one remarkably similar to Frosted Flakes which I think are GRRRRRREAT!) waiting for me at the breakfast table. On the way back to my host family’s home that night, we pulled into a huge building with lighted, flashing signs in Japanese. I walked in behind them and realized that they had taken me to a Japanese movie rental store! They marched straight over to the English movies and told me to pick as many as I wanted. That’s not just being polite. That’s sincere courtesy for not only my needs, but my preferences.

From service at restaurants, the personalized treatment at the Ryokan and the sincere consideration of my host family, I learned a valuable lesson from my trip to Japan. Courtesy isn’t an obligation; it’s an expectation. Respect isn’t general; it’s personalized. Genuine care isn’t a bonus; it’s the Japanese way of life.

So what can we do to show our peers Japanese courtesy in our day-to-day lives? Make a carb-loaded dinner for a friend before their big sports game. Take the time to write a sibling a note when you know they have a big math test that day. Stay after class to let a teacher know how much you appreciate their hard work. Courtesy isn’t hard. It isn’t expensive. Yet, it holds great value.

Levy's Latest

noreply@blogger.com (Levy Randolph) — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 03:45:00 +0000

Hey everyone, our family is back in Indianapolis for a couple of days before we head our separate ways, for the first time, to celebrate FFA Week! I will be heading to the wonderful state of South Carolina. We just had a wonderful home break after our trip from Japan and I just wanted to take a quick minute and share with all of you, probably the most important lesson I took away from our great experience was the need for Innovation!

During our time visiting with the leading businesses in Japan, a constant theme of innovation was seen. It was interesting to see how each company adapted differently by developing new ways of restructuring their company, new programs or divisions to meet certain needs, or new products to satisfy more customers while using less. Innovation is a necessity in order to run a successful business, and it is also important in trying to live a successful life. Whether that is being creative in studies to achieve a better academic record, succeed in extra-curricular activities, or even just in building relationships with your friends and family.

I'm excited to get back on the road and kick things off with South Carolina this coming week! And convention season is right around the corner and I'm stoked to be visiting Oregon's State Convention first! Until next time...

The Adventures of Alex: Japan...The Last Day

cdoss@ffa.org (Chelsea Doss) — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 13:03:00 +0000

Today was our last day in Japan, but it was jammed-packed with culture and fun! We spent the day touring Kyoto and visited the Golden Palace, a Samurai Castle and a Buddhist Temple.

It was amazing to see the contrast of rich Japanese architecture surrounded by peaceful lakes and waterfalls at the Golden Palace. It is hard to believe that the structure is covered with REAL gold!

We really enjoyed testing the squeaky floors at the Samurai Castle (intentionally invented to prevent stealthy ninja's from assassinating the Shogun).

It was hard to top the Buddhist Temple with 1,001 statues of Buddha. We learned about the tenants of the Buddhist religion and had fun dancing in the courtyard.

Our team spent the rest of the day at two different shopping areas, picking up gifts for our family and friends. We ALL stocked up on Hichu (aka the best candy known to man).

After a long day of tours and power shopping, we enjoyed Korean barbecue as our last supper. We thought our Japanese fun was over until our guide Chieko took us upstairs for the big finale of our trip... KARAOKE!!!!! Our team had so much fun rocking out to Michael Jackson, Spice Girls, Backstreet Boys and Journey. I bet Japan is thankful for sound proof walls ; )

Our last day was bittersweet. We all loved our time here and have come to appreciate the Japanese culture. But, we are all anxious to see our families and post all our pictures on Facebook : ) So stay tuned!

In true Jay Leno fashion, here is the team's Top Ten Japanese experiences! Drum roll please....

10. The Food We learned all about the art of eating sushi (raw fish and rice) and sashami (just the raw fish)

9. Our Farm Visit in Saitama Prefecture We made mochi and played with the farmer's son!

8. Waterfalls We admired the Kegon Waterfalls after riding an elevator 100 meters into the ground.

7. CREPES!!! (my personal favorite)

6. Shrines and Temples We learned about the differences between Shinto Shrines and Buddhist Temples.

5. Tsukiji Fish Market The largest fish market in Japan where we got to witness a tuna auction!

4. Our Night at the Ryokan We experienced traditional Japanese food and accomodations.

3. The Mitsui Reception We had a blast learning about Mitsui and gettign to know their young leaders!

2. FFJ Reception at the Tokyo Metropolitan Engei High School We spent time playing traditional Japanese games with FFJ members from all over Tokyo.

1. Our Home Stay with FFJ members from Handa Nogyo High School We spent three days and two nights as members of Japanese families being totally emersed in the culture and day-to-day life!

Chelseas Travels: Japan Host Families

cdoss@ffa.org (Chelsea Doss) — Sun, 07 Feb 2010 12:07:00 +0000

We have had such an amazing time with our host families. My family was the Tokemotos. Everyone enjoyed a unique experience in the various households we visited. An agricultural high school in Japan is everything you might imagine it would be: diverse, traditional, and full of pride, which is GREAT to see!

Chase's Adventures

noreply@blogger.com (Chase Rose) — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 11:13:00 +0000

Hey everyone!

Konichiwa!! or hello in Japanese!

This island is one amazing place if you ever get the chance to visit Japan DO IT! you will be so happy you did. From the moment we stepped of the plane just a few days ago we have been treated with such amazing hospitality and kindness.
Today began at a traditional Japanese hotel located in Nikko Japan, this location was way up in the Mountains and was absolutely beautiful. We visited a famous waterfall and experienced the true Japan culture in the historic city. After traveling just a few hours back into Tokyo we had one of the most memorable times thus far in our National Officer year, visiting FFJ members (Future Farmers of Japan) at a local school. The students were great people and gave us a tour of their school, everything from sea tortoises, to pigs to trees was included in the schools farm. All this and a three million dollar tree, yes that's 3 million dollar valued historic tree that the school is preserving along with many others. After a quick tour we had a reception with the FFJ members, they had practiced their English and we did the best we could with our Japanese! It was an incredible time to meet the students and continue to build on our relationship between FFA and FFJ, we exchanged gifts, played a few games that they had prepared, and no question left with some great memories.
Tomorrow we head out of the city to experience rural Japan and stay with our host families! We look forward to sharing more about this adventure with each of you and would like to continue to thank Mitsui for the sponsorship of this experience.

until next time!
Chase Rose

Randa's Journey- Japan Trip! 2/2/10

noreply@blogger.com (Randa Braune) — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 11:43:00 +0000

Hello everyone!!

Our time in Japan has been absolutely amazing so far! Today was full and eventful when we started off at the Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo. We were able to see tuna auctioned off, walk through the fish market and enjoyed some sushi for breakfast. This was then followed by a stop at Toyota where we made our way to a Japanese farm, here we learned the art of "Mochi-tsuki" traditional rice making! The rice is placed in a hollow wooden log and we each took turns smashing with the wooden mallet. It was quite the experience! The family that hosted us served us a traditional Japanese meal with the rice that we made and was also generous enough to take us on a tour of their vegetable fields and give insight to the different farming practices that they use. By the time we found ourselves back at the hotel we walked across the street to a resturant where we had Japanese pancakes which consist of rice, pork, vegetables or whatever you want to put in them. The owner of the resturant was most gracious and allowed us to practice some of our Japanese! The people here are just phenomenal and kind, they have a been a great example to us and we are all enjoying this opportunity very much!

Levy's Latest (Japan Edition)

noreply@blogger.com (Levy Randolph) — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 12:01:00 +0000

Hey y'all it's Day 2 here in Japan and it was a great one! We started off the morning right with some great breakfast at the Akasaka Exec Hotel and from there on we headed to the U.S. Embassy. We met with the folks who work in the U.S.D.A. sector of the Embassy, and discussed issues facing Japanese Agriculture and American Agriculture, also we learned about the internships that are offered to undergraduate and graduate students. After about a 2 hour discussion we went to the cafeteria and had some American food for lunch and caught a bit of the Pro Bowl! The visit to the Embassy proved to be very rewarding and allowed are team to walk away with some more knowledge on Ag in Japan. We headed to the Imperial Palace for a quick pit stop and continued on to Mitsui, one of the partners of the National Officer International Experience. Mitsui is a Japanese firm with it's business in a variety of markets ranging from the auto industry to agriculture. We met with many of the interns (freshman) and learned a little about each division that they represented. This evening we also had a reception dinner with Mitsui and one of their General Managers. At this reception our team had the chance to introduce ourselves in Japanese which was a great/funny experience for all of us! The day went extremely well and we are all so excited for tomorrow as we are leaving at 4:50 a.m. to head to Tsukiji Fish Market and continue on with our Japanese experience! Until next time...

Japan Adventure- Day 1

noreply@blogger.com (Bethany) — Sun, 31 Jan 2010 11:10:00 +0000

The Best Parts of a 14 Hour Flight

*Great bonding time with teammates!
*They served Japanese Food.
*Great reading/movie watching time
*Sleeping helps make the time change a little easier
*Nothing like celebrating a birthday the moment you cross the International Dateline!

Best Learning Experiences

*Visited a local shrine to learn about some of the Japanese beliefs.
*While at the shrine we got to see 2 brides and a wedding procession.
*Sitting in a Tea Ceremony celebrating our welcome to Japan.
*Learned the 4 ideas of being the 'perfect' guest, Harmony, Tranquility, Purity, Respect.
*Took a boat ride with the Tokyo skyline in view.
*Got to see the 3rd Statue of Liberty in the World.
*Our tour guide is wonderful! She's continuously teaching us more of the language.
*Experiencing the hospitality of the culture.

New Foods We've Tried

*Jellyfish
*Scallops
*Tempura Eggplant and Pumpkin
*Powdered Green Tea
*Walnut-Sesame Ice Cream
*Grape Fanta (They're famous for it!)

~Bethany

Chelsea's Travels: Pictures from Soderquist

cdoss@ffa.org (Chelsea Doss) — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 03:13:00 +0000

The Soderquist Center for Leadership & Ethics

Bethany's Blessings- Meetings in D.C.

noreply@blogger.com (Bethany) — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 05:06:00 +0000

Top 5 'Tourist' Stops in
Washington D.C.

1.)Georgetown Cupcakes

2.) Dr. Case's office in Alexandria, VA

3.) National Museum of American History- They have Dorothy's shoes!

4.) A tour of the Capitol

5.) The Metro!

The 7 Best Parts of Spending a week in D.C.

*Meeting Secretary of Education Arne Duncan

*Making decisions for the future of the organization.

*Meeting Josh Sundquist

*Going to Josh Sundquist's book signing

*Starting to read Josh Sundquist's new book "Just Don't Fall"

*Learning more about what GREAT things FFA members do!

*Catching up with all of the K-State alumni in D.C.

*Spending time with the Awesome Board Members

Bethany's Blessing- Time in Arkansas

noreply@blogger.com (Bethany) — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 01:28:00 +0000

Top 4 Take-Aways from Time at Soderquist Leadership Center in Arkansas:

*Willingness to pick up NEW perspectives is essential to a team.
*Trust is the basis for every effective team.
*A powerful mission statement should capture ones heart and get you out of bed in the morning.
*We create teams because we all have unique dreams, desires, and goals.

Top 5 Values of Our Team

*Respect

*Teamwork

*Humility

*Integrity

*Genuine

Memorable Team-Building 'Moments'

*Saving the Internet
*Attempting to save a Village from a Flood
(As pictured)
*Climbing Mt. Everest (or so it seemed)
*Saving the Zoo Animals
*Uniting as 'The Shrubs' on the Ropes Course

Chelsea's Travels: Pictures from Tennessee

cdoss@ffa.org (Chelsea Doss) — Thu, 14 Jan 2010 04:16:00 +0000

Mt. Juliet FFA Chapter Officers, National Officers, and three Tennessee State Officers

Rachel from Mt. Juliet and I

Emily Buck from Wilson Central and I

Riverdale Chapter Officers with National Officers

Siegel Chapter Officers with National Officers

Bethany and her girls!

Bonnie Holman, advisor, with members from Siegel

Breakfast time!

My advisors Bruce Haley and Brian Lewis at Eagleville

My parents Jeff and Beth with my older sister Kinsey

Eagleville FFA members and National Officers

The West TN Team develops a banner at our leadership conference

Session about to begin at our TN Regional and State Officer conference

Middle TN Vice President, Andy Ligon, was dared to lick the flag pole!

Laura Campbell, Taylor Schultz, Hillary Ross, and Emily Buck work on their team banner

The team in front of the Kenneth K. Mitchell FFA Archives

A little conversation before breakfast

Regional, State, and National Officers at Tennessee's Camp Clements Leadership Training Camp

We all know it gets hot at Camp Clements, but did you know it snows as well?

The VIP Citation awarded to Governor Phil Bredesen of Tennessee. Bethany, Chase, Laura Campbell, Steven Gass (State Advisor for TN), and I traveled to the state capitol to present the award.

Talking in the Senate chambers with Laura

Just dreaming what it would be like to work in this place...

Me, Bethany, Laura Campbell, and Chase on the House floor

Mr. Gass gives a brief history of the capitol.

Tom Womack and the entire Department of Agriculture made us all feel welcome at a reception.

Tim Chowning is a great supporter of FFA in Tennessee and a former State Officer.

Commissioner of Agriculture, Ken Givens, poses for a picture with us.

Commissioner Givens gives a welcome.

John Rose is the Tennessee FFA Foundation Chairman, former State Officer, and longtime supporter of TN FFA.

State Officers, National Officers, and Commissioner Givens

The Adventures of Alex

noreply@blogger.com (Bethany) — Sun, 10 Jan 2010 17:45:00 +0000

It’s hard to describe. You’re standing there with some of the most amazing people from across the country, thinking, “Please say my name! Please say my name! Please say my name!” The Chicago Bulls’ song starts, the lights drop and the stomachs of all 39 candidates twist into a knot.

Some of the thoughts that went through my mind before the announcement:

-Wow there a lot of phenomenal candidates!
-Is this the longest convention session in history?!
-Did the chair of the nominating committee prepare a whole keynote or does it just feel like Thomas Griffin is talking forever?
-Don’t cry. Don’t cry. (Oops! Too late.)

Then the music heightened and I began to hear the names of my future teammates. Your Central Region Vice President…. From the state of Montana, CHASE ROSE!!! If you watch the video, everyone in the convention hall could hear him scream.

Your Southern Region Vice President….from the state of Tennessee, CHELSEA DOSS!!! Chelsea managed to keep her cool and get herself onstage with composer and poise. I started to wonder if they ever were going to get to my region.

Your Western Region Vice President…from the state of Texas, RANDA BRAUNE!!! Randa sprinted to the stage and sported possibly the biggest smile I’ve ever seen (in true Texas fashion).

Then f-i-n-a-l-l-y (Thomas didn’t say that. Just commentary!), your Eastern Region Vice President… insert the longest pause of my life… from the state of Mmm-do you realize how many “M” states there are?! -ichigan, ALEX HENRY!!!!!!!

I couldn’t believe it! My legs gave out and my eyes started leaking like crazy. I gasped for air as everyone pushed me toward the aisle. I don’t remember how I got up the stairs; I just remember having to slow myself down on the way up because I almost biffed it in front of 50,000 people!

I joined three of my friends that would soon become family and listened as Thomas announced:

Your National FFA Secretary… from the state of Kansas, BETHANY BOHNENBLUST!!! Bethany glided down the stairs and gracefully pranced up on stage. If you don’t believe me, check the video.

Your National FFA President… from the state of California, LEVY RANDOLPH!!! Levy could have been in the Olympics that day. He outran Paul and looked more like a flash of light than a person as he soared onstage.

As we stood on stage, I couldn’t smile big enough to convey all the happiness in my heart.

The rest of the day was a blur with interviews, a reception with the retiring officers, debrief meeting and dinner with my family and friends. To be honest, it seems more like a dream than reality.

That Saturday of convention was one of the most emotional, nerve-racking, exciting, phenomenal days of my life! But not because of October 24, 2009 itself. Rather, that was the day I was blessed with something I thought was unattainable. It was the day that I began to live my life’s dream. It was the day I got five new family members, a new mentor and the opportunity to travel the world for the next year, meeting the most awesome people the globe has to offer.

It was the day that started, “The Adventures of Alex.”

Election Video

Levy's Latest

noreply@blogger.com (Chase Rose) — Sun, 10 Jan 2010 17:25:00 +0000

Hey y'all it's Levy here, posting the first of Levy's Latest! We have been up to a lot lately and are currently in experience state here in Tennessee. The pictures above are from when we were in Indianpolis doing some chapter visits with Lebanon and Shenandoah. For two days back to back, our team had the chance to visit with students and the advisors of these two outstanding chapters. After our visits we walked away with some great memories from the students, like singing a rendition to Party in the U.S.A. with Dalton at Shenandoah and changing the words to describe perceptions. Our team presented workshops on living values, opportunities, synergy, perceptions, influence, and valuing others! We had a wonderful time and it was our first time being back in the classrooms and having the chance to meet and converse with students! Thank you to both Lebanon and Shenandoah for the good times and we hope to see y'all soon! Until next time....