ND FFA Foundation Fall 2015 Newsletter by ND FFA

“Supporting Leadership Opportunities and Activities of the FFA and Agriculture Education”

ND NDFFA FFAFOUNDATION FOUNDATION PO BOX 6022 BISMARCK, ND 58506 National Convention Issue

PO Box 6022 Bismarck, ND 58506

V O L U M E

1 4

I S S U E

N O V E M B E R ,

2 0 1 5

Zahradka is National Star of Agriscience

by the National FFA Organization SPECIAL POINTS OF INTEREST: 

ND FFA National Convention results are in.



15 of ND’s members attended National FFA Convention to receive their American FFA Degrees.



Nearly 400 ND FFA members attended the National FFA Convention.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE: Auction Results

National Conv. Results

Sponsors

District Leadership

Producing Futures

In Honor of Our Friends

Calendar

Growing up on the family farm, Justin Zahradka of Lawton, N.D., was intrigued by livestock, tractors and crops. He was an inquisitive child, asking questions such as “Why do farmers cultivate soil?” “Why do cows only eat certain vegetation?” This curiosity led the 21 year old to become involved in his local FFA chapter and today has resulted in him being named 2015 American Star in Agriscience, one of the most prestigious honors awarded to a student by the National FFA Organization. As a member of his FFA chapter, Zahradka was involved in many aspects of the chapter, from leadership positions to playing a role in crops judging. His interest in crops judging continued to grow and soon, he agreed to participate in the North Dakota Cover Crop Trial. His responsibilities included providing the land and cattle, helping select the seed mix, planting the crop, weighing the cattle, and assisting in tours. His cover crop trials were some of the first research of its kind in this area. His research with cover crops has now changed how Zahradka farms. He says rather than working against nature, he is now adopting a system of biotic farming. Biotic farming revolves around all living things rather than just the crop being grown and focuses on a more integrated, biological way to address problems and reduce inputs. His research consisted of growing forage based cover crops, such as radish, turnip, barley, peas, and sorghum/sudan grass and grazing beef cattle on them to determine daily rates of gain. He found that yearling steers gained on average up to two pounds per day while grazing cover crop. Samples of the cover crop forage were analyzed and resulted in a relative feed value (RFV) of 163, which is comparable to alfalfa in the pre-bud stage. In addition, soil samples were taken to track nutrient availability. A nine species cover crop that he grew consisting of 64% legumes added an average of 44 lbs of nitrogen/acre. Each year at the National FFA Convention & Expo, four FFA members are honored with an American Star Award for outstanding accomplishments in FFA and agricultural education. The American Star Awards, including the American Star Farmer, American Star in Agribusiness, American Star in Agricultural Placement and American Star in Agriscience, are awarded to FFA members who demonstrate outstanding agricultural skills and competencies through completion of a supervised agricultural experience program. Sixteen American Star Award finalists from throughout the U.S. are nominated each year. The American Star Awards are sponsored by ADM Crop Risk Services, Case IH, Elanco, Farm Credit and Syngenta as a special project of the National FFA Foundation. Zahradka is the son of Jeff and Lori Zahradka. He is a member of the Park River High School FFA Chapter, which is led by advisor Brent Arndt. He is currently studying crop and weed sciences at North Dakota State University.

For a full recap of ND FFA’s National Convention highlights see page 5! The Numbers Don’t Lie!

We know how amazing our ND FFA members are; but if you ever needed proof, check out page 13!

PAGE

VOLUME

ND FFA Friend of the Foundation Recipients ~ Joel Janke 2013 Bryan Strom 2014 This award recognizes the individual or couple who has collectively given unselfishly of their time, talents, and resources, and acted as an advocate for agricultural education and the North Dakota FFA Foundation.

ND FFA Foundation Board & Staff President: Dorinda Zacharias, Kathryn Vice President: Melissa Hansen, Carrington Treasurer: Aaron Anderson, Bismarck Secretary: Amanda Huettl, Garrison/Max Members: Mike Axt, McClusky Preston Gilderhus, Oberon Seena Hagen, Bottineau John Jacobson, Fargo Chance Lundberg, Killdeer Dr. Adam Marx, NDSU Fargo Lynne Ostrem, Rugby Claire Endres, Carrington Jeff Topp, Grace City Brian Vculek, Crete Brock Saewert, Kindred

Staff: Beth Bakke Stenehjem, Executive Director Tamra Maddock, Asst. Executive Director Beth Allen, CTSO Fiscal Manager www.ndffafoundation.com PO Box 6022 Bismarck, ND 58506 Phone: (701) 224-8390

ISSUE

15th Annual FFA Auction a Success More than $27,000 was raised at the annual FFA auction held at the ND State Fair in Minot, thanks to the generosity of the donors listed below. This year’s auction also showcased the 2nd Annual State Officer Auction Basket Challenge. More than eight past ND state officer teams competed for the title and “baby bison”, crowning them the highest earning team. It was a close competition, but the title and traveling trophy went to the 1991 -92 team. Daryl Lies was in the audience to accept the baby bison on his team’s behalf. Team baskets totaled more than $3,500. Each year funds generated from the auction help to fund travel to National FFA Convention for deserving ND FFA members who have earned their way by winning career development events (CDEs) and proficiencies based on success in their supervised agricultural experiences (SAEs). Funds also support scholarships to Washington Leadership Conference presented by the ND FFA Alumni.

Thank you for your support!

ABC Seamless of Bismarck Ag Country Farm Credit Services Americas Best Inn & Suites Bismarck Tire Center Bottineau FFA Clubs Choice Comfort Inn Bismarck Cowboy Rope Art Cracker Barrel Dakota Agronomy Partners Dakota Awards Dakota Plains Cooperative Expressway Inn Farm Credit Services of Mandan Farm Credit Services of Minot Farm Credit Services of ND Gackle/Streeter FFA Grant County FFA Jiffy Lube Kelly's Welding Kenmare FFA Minot FFA Minot Central Campus Napoleon FFA ND Beef Commission ND FFA Foundation

ND Mill and Elevator ND State Fair ND State University ND Winter Show Nitro-Green Professional Tree & Lawn Care Northern Canola Growers Nutrients For Life Parshall FFA Chapter PG Ag Prairie Knights Casino Raging Rivers Waterpark RDO Equipment Rolla FFA Chapter Rugby FFA Runnings Scranton FFA Sea Glass Fine Art Shepherd's Hill at the Crossroads State Officer Team 1991-1992 State Officer Team 2007-2008 State Officer Team 2013-14 Toy Farmer Wahpeton FFA Tumbleweeds & Turquoise Envision 2010-11 State FFA Officers

American Bank Center Schimelfenig Excavating Beth Allen Mike & Marjorie Axt Roger & Kari Christensen Joana Friesz Taylor Friesz RaeDeen Heupel Julie Hulm Joel & Joyce Janke Daryl & Kim Lies Anna Moss Peterson Warren Schlecht Carissa Steinert Lenny & Cheree Tesky Pam & Terry Tonnessen Jeff & Jan Topp Scott & Cari Wanner Julie Woodbury Steve Zimmerman Angela Leier Robin Wahl Amy Lee LeAnn Cargo Kelly & Todd Finke Wade & Michelle Billadeau Lonnie Nikel Jessica Longbrake

Odden Addresses ND Petroleum Council Members of the ND Petroleum Council (NDPC) heard from Keylee Odden at their annual meeting in Fargo September 22. Odden a former State Officer from Rugby addressed the group regarding energy and agricultures shared resources, among them ND’s youth. She also encouraged companies in the energy and oil sector to look to the ND FFA when seeking a quality workforce, reminding participants of the meeting just how diverse and rich in, not only agricultural skills, but trade skills like welding, plumbing, and electrical our agriculture education curriculum is.

Special thanks to our Star Partner CHS Foundation who have chosen to increase their investment in ag education and the FFA by becoming a

Four Star Partner!

Thank you CHS Foundation for your continued support and commitment to ND Team Ag Ed.

LOOK WHAT YOU’VE DONE! Your gifts during Giving Hearts Day 2015 helped fulfill much needed funding for our members. Here’s how YOU helped our members:  8 additional Washington Leadership Conference Scholarships were awarded  National Convention travel stipends for state-winning team members and individuals were increased to $250

Please MARK YOUR CALENDAR for Giving Hearts Day 2016, Thursday, February 11!! On February 11, visit www.impactgiveback.org

The ND FFA Foundation is currently seeking donors who would help MATCH FUNDS of a $1,000 or more for this event. To participate in Giving Hearts Day we need a minimum of $4,000 in matching funds. If you can help, please contact Beth at 701-224-8390.

Let

help you with this

Is your company interested in the best and brightest North Dakota has to offer? RECRUIT with us! Consider attending the upcoming ND FFA Career Fairs at the Winter Leadership

Conferences and Winter Career Development Events When? January 9 and March 22, 2016 Where? Ramkota Hotel in Bismarck and the ND State Fair Center in Minot. Why? Meet with over 1200 students and agricultural educators about career opportunities with your organization. How? Contact Tam with the ND FFA Foundation at tamra.maddock@btinet.net or call 701212-5235 to reserve a spot. Cost of a booth is FREE of charge to our Star Partners, $150 per booth to non Stars Partners (8 ft space) The agriculture education curriculum is diverse? From agricultural sales, farm and entrepreneurial business to production agriculture, food science and public speaking, and skilled trades—from welding, electrical, and plumbing—the ag education curriculum fosters the entire individual with the goal of developing, premier leadership, personal growth, and career success!

VOLUME

ISSUE

ND FFA Foundation Provides Supporters a New Avenue for Giving Last year at this time we reported the start of the ND FFA Foundation endowment. Since its inception the endowment has earned $20,000, $6,000 of which was donated in honor of Joel Janke, the former state FFA Advisor and founder of the ND FFA Foundation. Thank you to those of you who’ve chosen to honor Joel in this way. Why an endowment? “This decision just made sense for both the Foundation and its supporters,” said Executive Director Beth Bakke Stenehjem. “Our donors are the best people around and an endowment gives them the opportunity to give a gift that lasts forever. With ND’s tax laws, an endowment allows donors to give while reaping the benefits of a sizeable ND income tax credit for doing so.” The ND Community Foundation (NDCF) is managing the endowment. Monies generated by the endowment will be utilized to provide scholarship and leadership opportunities for ND’s FFA members. The ND FFA Foundation has established a “qualified ND endowment fund” as a component fund of the North Dakota Community Foundation. This fund is a permanent way to support our organization – earnings from the fund will support the FFA every year, while the principal remains intact and continues to grow. ~ How does the endowment work? “Our donors are the best There’s another great reason to give now to our endowment fund. The North people around and an Dakota Charitable Income Tax Credit, passed by the ND State Legislature in 2011, endowment gives them the allows individuals who donate $5,000 or more and businesses that donate any amount opportunity to give a gift that to qualified endowment funds to receive up to a 40% state tax credit. lasts forever. With ND’s tax ND FFA Foundation’ endowment fund is managed as a qualified North Dakota laws, an endowment allows Endowment Fund under North Dakota law. This means that your gift of $5,000 to the FCFA’s Endowment Fund is not only tax deductible on your federal income tax return, it donors to give while reaping the benefits of a sizeable ND should also qualify for a 40% or $2,000 credit against your ND income tax liability. If income tax credit for doing you are in the 30% federal income tax bracket, the net cost of your $5,000 gift could be so.” as low as $1,500 after taking the federal and ND income tax benefits into account. The ~ credit is limited to $10,000 per taxpayer per year. This means that an individual can max out their credit by giving $25,000 to the endowment and a couple can give $50,000. If you cannot use all of your ND income tax credit in one year, you may carry it forward for an additional 3 years. There are many ways to support and grow our endowment fund, including outright donations (that may qualify for the 40% state tax credit), deferred gifts, bequests, memorials, and through life insurance policies. If you would like to help us continue our work forever, please contact the ND FFA Foundation to discuss our endowment fund and the many options there are to support us. You may find out more about this generous tax credit by visiting: http://ndcf.net/information/ndtaxcredit.asp.

Special thanks to those who have honored Joel by donating to the ND FFA Foundation Endowment.

Retired ag teacher, Richard Debertin speaking at Joel’s retirement reception prior to the FFA Foundation and Alumni Auction at the ND State Fair.

Gary Straquadine Howard & Audrey Lahlum Tim Brown Doug & Leann Bremner Brian & Mary Schneider Dale Carpentier Wes & Kathy Pepple Harvey Tallackson Jim Nayes Ted Johnson Rick Steckler Glen & Iadell Weinmann Kelly Hanson Howard & Karen Van Bruggen

Ken & Tammy Votava Raymond Skorheim Bill & Janet Well Al & Pat Giese Cindy & Oscar Lundquist Joel & Joyce Janke Beth & Wayne Stenehjem Chris & Ronda Schauer Dean & Kristi Wehri Larry & Aneica Behm Tam & Rob Maddock Dean & Marianne Moos Bruce & Lynelle Bachmeier Jeff & Leann Schafer

Joan & Jerry Wettlaufer Jim & Jody Hauge Janell & Keith Hauck Troy and Bobbie Jo Uglem Jennifer & Edward Schwind Kenton Holle Mark & Raquel Nelson April & Ed Mitchell Jean & Tammy Meyer Bridgette Readel Jessica (Anderson) Ruhland

The ND FFA Foundation is not engaged in rendering legal or tax advice. This article is meant to provide general information about charitable giving and gift taxation. The ND FFA Foundation recommends that any prospective donor consult their tax or legal advisor before entering into any giving program.

National Convention Champs & Travel Sponsors Contest or Area of Competition

Chapter

National Placing & Top 10 Ranking

sponsored by ND Corn Council

Bronze Gold 5th High Team

Asgrow/DEKALB/Channel/ Rea/Monsanto Missy & Jory Hansen ND FFA Foundation

Bryan Kenner ND Rural Rehabilitation Corp ND FFA Foundation Cavendish Farms

Horse Evaluation Job Interview Land Judging Livestock Evaluation

Silver Gold Team; Ashley Stoppleworth 10th Steve Edwardson, Max Danner, Tony Boehm, Jeff Ball, & Larry Lundberg Rugby Silver Claire Endres, Carrington Silver Carrington Bronze Napoleon Silver

Meats Evaluation Milk Quality & Products Nursery/Landscape Parliamentary Procedure Quiz

Rugby New Salem Kenmare Wishek Max

ND Farmers Union Ins. Nodak Mutual Insurance ND FFA Foundation ND Department of Agriculture Wheat Growers

Range Judging Star Chapters

Rugby 9th High Team ND FFA Foundation One Star Chapters – Garrison, Napoleon, Rugby ADM Two Star Chapters – Carrington, Rolla HS Iver Hagen, Center, Kindred, Richland 44 Emmerald Aipperspach, Beulah ND FFA Foundation New Salem Bronze ND FFA Foundation Sponsored by the ND Ag Products Utilization Commission Zac James Miller - Richland 44, finalist in Ag Mechanics Repair and Maintenance

Honorary American Degree

Talent Vet Science National Proficiency Finalist

Silver Silver Silver Silver

ND FFA Association & ND FFA Foundation ND FFA Foundation ND Game & Fish Department ND Rural Rehabilitation Corp

FFA Serve Second Annual Banquet in a Field

Members from Kindred, Wydnmere, Wahpeton, and Carrington join ND State FFA officers to serve the banquet.

State officers and members from Kindred, Wyndmere, Wahpeton, and Carrington chapters advocated for agriculture by helping serve the second annual Banquet in a Field hosted by Common Ground in cooperation with Peterson Farms Seed on August 4 at Peterson Farms Seed, near Prosper, N.D. More than 100 people enjoyed a five-course meal prepared by Sarello's & The Lost Italian and the NDSU BBQ Bootcamp. Banquet in a Field allowed consumers to connect with North Dakota agriculture by touring crop plots, tasting appetizers featuring these crops, engaging in conversations with farmers who grow the crops, and asking questions about food production. The crop plots, planted by Peterson Farms Seeds, included potatoes, flax, canola, sugar beets, pinto beans, soybeans, corn, sunflowers, durum, spring wheat, and barley.

Thanks to our American Degree Travel Sponsors Fifteen of ND’s American Degree Recipients attended the National FFA Convention to receive their degree. Students who receive their American Degree are FFA’s “cream of the crop.” There were several individuals and companies who helped make the travel to Louisville more affordable for these college students. American Degree Fund sponsors were Fessenden Cooperative Association, Jeff and Jan Topp, Kevin Teigen, Noah Hall, and Jeff Missling.

Thanks to our Sponsors STAR PARTNERS:

DISTINGUISHED STAR PARTNER ($25,000)

Twin Cities Region Northland Ford Dealers

5 STAR PARTNER ($20,000)

DEKALB/ASGROW/Channel/Rea/Monsanto

4 STAR PARTNER ($14,500) CHS Foundation

2 STAR PARTNER ($5,750) Dakota Plains Cooperative ND Farmers Union Insurance Wheat Growers ADM Nodak Mutual Insurance

1 STAR PARTNERS ($2,750)

DuPont Pioneer PROSEED Butler Machinery ND Farm Bureau RDO Equipment Wilbur-Ellis Lynnes Welding Training International Certification Services Summers CF Industries First International Bank & Trust Enbridge

Premier Sponsors ($50,000 or more) Bakk Farm

Elite Sponsor

($25,000-49,999)

Diamond Sponsors ($10,000-24,999)

Alliance Pipeline Ag in the Classroom ND Dept. of Agriculture Huffman Trust

Sapphire Sponsors ($5,000-9,999)

All FFA Members through their dues ABC Seamless Ag Country Farm Credit Services in Fargo Dakota Plains Cooperative Farm Credit Services of ND Land O' Lakes Foundation Tom & Frances Leach Foundation Lori & David Schwab & Ransom County Sportsmens Club Beth & Wayne Stenehjem

Gold Sponsors

($1,000 or more)

Ag Country Farm Credit Services in Grand Forks AT&T Robb & Mary Boyd Cavendish Farms, Inc. Farm Credit Services of Mandan Fessenden Cooperative Association Allen & Pat Giese Gregg Halverson High Plains Equipment Joel & Joyce Janke Monsanto Napa of Garrison ND Ag Products Utilization Commission ND Association of REC’s ND Barley Council ND Buffalo Association ND Corn Council ND Crop Improvement Seed Assn. ND FFA Alumni Association ND Game & Fish Department ND Rural Rehabilitation Corp.

ND State Fair Association ND State University Roy Olin Betty Pearson & Family Sherry Plummer Pride of Dakota Bridgette & Randy Readel Red River Farm Network Jessica (Anderson) Ruhland Misty & Trevor Steeke and Family Bryan & Janet Strom Titan Machinery Tractor Supply Company US Bank Foundation Brian & Julie Vculek Vaughn & Dorinda Zacharias (Zacharias Family) Vance Zacharias Steve Zimmerman

Silver Sponsors ($400-$999)

ACME Electric Tool Crib Ag Resources in Maddock AGCO Corporation Ken & Linda Astrup Bruce & Lynelle Bachmeier Basin Electric Power Cooperative Beulah FFA Chapter Mark Birdsall (Birdsall Grain) Bottineau FFA Chapter Bourgault Industries Dale Carpentier Cloverdale Foods Company Jesse & Stephanie Cook Coteau Properties Company Dakota Auto Electric LLP Dean Foods Dwight & Christina Dockter Dow Chemical Company Foundation Farm Service Agency - USDA William Fritz Garrison Farmers Union Elevator

Cont. on page 8

V O L U M E

1 4

I S S U E

P A G E

The View from District Leadership Just a few short weeks before National FFA Convention even started, members were preparing for the very first step to qualify to attend the 2016 National FFA Convention. That’s right! The beginning of October brought us District Leadership competitions in ND’s eight districts. Congratulations to all contestants for their district leadership successes and good luck at state competition!

Chapter of the Day honors at District Leaderships were earned by Powers Lake, Max, Harvey, Finley/Sharon, Kindred, Napoleon, Mandan, and Bowman

Thanks to our District Leadership Sponsors:

Breanna Bregel Roger & Kari Christenson Jason & Heather Rohr Bryan & Janet Strom Jeff & Jan Topp AgCountry Farm Credit Services Farm Credit Services of Mandan Farm Credit Services of ND First International Bank & Trust ND Association of RECs Papa’s Pumpkin Patch US Bancorp Foundation ND FFA Alumni

Thank You,

Congratulations... Past state officers Mitchell & Jessie Becker were married August 1, 2015. Mitchel currently teaches at Kindred. Congratulations also to Craig & Kayla Kleven who were married on August 1, 2015. Craig is an instructor at Bismarck State College. Gwendolyn Grace was born to Ben & Kasey Seidler on November 9. Ben currently teaches at South Prairie.

Farm Credit Services,

for supplying freshman FFA members with FFA Handbooks!

PAGE

Sponsors (Cont.) Gate City Bank Mara & Bruce Glasow Gooseneck Implement Gutschmidt MFG, LLC H. E. Everson Company Butch & Diane Haugland Impact Foundation Carol Jensen Johnson Ag Resources, LLC Chris Johnson (C & S Farms) Glenna & Kolin Johnson (G & K Ranch) Janelle Johnson Roger, Jeanette & Erika Kenner Jessica Koerner Eric Lahlum Cynthia & Oscar Lundquist Von & Doreen Lynne Tam & Rob Maddock Maddock A. S. Gibbens FFA Chapter Maddock FFA Alumni Magic City Implement Gary Martens Tracy & Darlene Mellmer (Mellmer Farms ETSM) Midwest Dairy Assn. of ND Milk Producers of ND Wade & Lynn Moser Napoleon FFA Mark & Raquel Nelson Marlow & Joyce Nelson ND Assn. of Agriculture Educators ND Beef Commission ND Farmers Union ND Grain Dealers Association ND Grain Growers Association ND Pork Council ND Stockmen’s Association ND Wheat Commission NDSU Animal Science Dept. Northern Plains Potato Growers Michael Ostrem Ottertail Power Company Pan-O-Gold Baking Company Papa’s Pumpkin Patch Parshall FFA Chapter Keith Peltier Peterson Farms Seed Jason & Heather Rohr Rugby FFA & FFA Alumni Jeff & Leann Schafer Kurtis Schaff Dwight Schmidt Brian & Mary Schneider Shepherds Hill at the Cross Roads Jon Solberg (Sun Mountain Medical Consulting, LLC) Charlie Sorenson Southwest Grain David & Denise Swanson Terry & Pam Tonnessen Jeff & Jan Topp Towner FFA & FFA Alumni Tractor Supply Company Triple M Ranch US Bank Rick Vannett Wahpeton FFA Wahpeton FFA Alumni Dennis & Kathy Walsh & Family West Plains Implement

Bronze Sponsors ($100-$399)

2012-2013 State Officer Team ACME Electric in MInot Agassiz Seed & Supply Agri-Cover, Inc. Alerus Financial Erica (Disrud) Althoff Rich & Renae Amundson Aaron Anderson Elvin & Mary Anderson, Farmers Union Insurance Jessica Anderson Ruhland Michael Anderson Nicholas & Joyce Andre Brent Arndt Anonymous Associated Milk Producers Inc. Mike & Marjorie Axt Darwin & Nancy Baerwald Anton L Bachmeier Donald Bahl Bruce Bakewell Linda Bakewell & Kristin Underhill & April Frieze Brent & Ryane Bakke Shirley Bakke Roger Beaver Christine Behm Rau Belfield FFA Chapter Ryan Bernstein Matthew & Amy Benz Berthold FFA Chapter Beulah FFA Alumni Biliske Equipment Auctions Bis-Man Tractors & Equipment Bismarck Bobcat Hockey Curt & Joan Bjertness Dan Bjertness Mike Bjertness BNI Coal Ltd. Bobcat Company, Bismarck Eric & Nancy Bollingberg Bowman County FFA Alumni Joan Braaten-Grabanski Douglas Brahee Joel & Susan Brandvold Breanna Bregel Cathy Bridwell Ron & Karen Broderson Brown's Farm Gabe, Shelly, & Paul Brown Tim Brown Jeannine Bryant KariAnn (Seeger) & Andrew Buntrock Elroy Burkle Harold Burley Butler Machinery Co., Fargo Gretchen Campbell Canadian Pacific Railway Company Cannonball FFA Alumni Capital Trophy Cargill Sweeteners, Inc. Dana & Carol Carlson Kenton & Marnie Carlson Larry Carlson Carrington FFA & FFA Alumni CenDak Farmers Union Coop Cenex/Hotstuff in Beulah Chesak Seed House Robert & Linda Chilson Lincoln Christenson Roger & Kari Christenson Beth Christmann CHS Lake Region Citizens State Bank, Finley Comfort Inn & Comfort Suites, Bismarck Dakota Agronomy Partners Dakota Community Bank Dakota Tube & Steel Leonard Dalzell Bernie Dardis Stan & Sharon Dardis Richard Debertin Robert & Barbara Deraas Dickinson Chamber of Commerce James & Colleen Diepolder Beverly Ditmer Divide County FFA Chapter David Dockter Doosan/Bobcat Doublewood Inn, Bismarck

Annette Drummond Chris & Amy Duchsherer Ducks Unlimited Bruce Due Doug & Sandy Dukart Chad & Julie Ellingson (Ellingson Angus) Naomi Edwards Donavon Evashenko Expressway Suites, Fargo Farmers Union Insurance, Maddock Farmers Union Insurance, Rugby Farmers Union Oil Co (Beulah) Ben Farner Tim & Julie Farrell Shawn & Judy Feiring Fessenden/Bowdon FFA Chapter Fessenden Coop. Assn. Al Fettig Finley Sharon FFA Finley Sharon FFA Alumni Michael Flath Gavin & Helen Foss (Foss Trenching & Excavating) Kenneth Fox Ashley (Vangsness) & Jason Frerichs Bruce Freitag Cody Friesz Rick & Paulette Frith (Frith Seed) Robert & Diane Fritel Garrison FFA Alumni Garrison FFA Chapter Garrison State Bank and Trust Gate City Bank General Equipment & Supplies Giant Snacks Hilary & Sara Gietzen (Gietzen’s Sheep Shearing) Edwin & Preston Gilderhus Glen Ullin FFA Shane & Brenda Goettle Gooseneck Implement Grant County FFA Chapter Granville FFA William Gray David Haberman Jared & Brandie Hagert Curtis & Roberta Hagert Curtis & Leann Hall Levi Hall Noah & Kaitlin Hall Neil Halley Larry J. Halvorson Rick & Kathleen Halvorson Debbie Hansen Jory & Melissa Hansen Armen & Connie Hanson Margretta Hanson Theresa Hanson Theresa Harmon Harvey FFA Janell & Keith Hauck Jim & Jody Hauge Hebron FFA Chapter Jill Hegland Mike & Shelly Heilman Darrel & Connie Heins David Hendrickson Laury Hennix Brooks Hetle Dale & Lael Hoerauf Mark & Sandy Holkup Kenton & Bobby Jo Holle Tom & Mary Holm Harold & Dorothy Holte Mark Hovland Hubbard Feeds Glen & Amanda Huettl Julie & Duane Hummel Hurdsfield Grain Thomas & Katie Hutchins Intermountain Stihl - SD Jerry & Connie Iverson David Jacobson James Valley Grain Elevator Brooke Jameson Ed & JoAnn Jameson Jamestown Chamber of Commerce Jamestown Implement Mike & Margie Janke Ted Johnson Mike & Lisa Johnston Myron Johs

Dennis & Doris Just K2S Engineering Inc. Rae Ann Kelsch Bryan Kenner (BK Seeds) Curt Kenner Keith Kessler Kindred FFA & Alumni Bruce Knudson (Mountain View Angus) Blaine Kotasek Maynard Krause George & Mary Kreidt Eric Lahlum Howard & Audrey Lahlum Lake Region Grain/CHS Lakeside Machinery Lakota FFA Chapter LaMoure Feed & Seed Larimore FFA Chapter Eileen Larson Larson Grain Company Kevin & Karen Law David Leier Dwight Leier Joel & Linda Lemer Sidney Lerfald Dr. Kermit Lidstrom Danny, Annie & Cody Lies Paul Lindseth Mary Linehan Lisbon FFA Chapter Lisbon FFA Alumni Bob Little Caren Loebs Michael Lucy Bryce Lynne M & S Concessions Will & Jerilyn MacDonald Frank Mack (Triple M Ranch) Randy & Susan Mairs Mandan FFA Alumni Mike Martin Rich Matteson Max FFA Alumni Rueben Mayer McClusky FFA Chapter McClusky FFA Alumni Dennis McCoy Charles & Mary McDonald Shawna McFarland Heidi McIntyre MDU Resources Foundation Medina FFA Chapter Sonia & Leroy Meehl Mike & Heidi Meller (Mellmer Farms) Jean Meyer Tammy Meyer Kandi & LaVerne Mikkelson Jerry & Jackie Migler Kayla Miller Minnesota Timberwolves Minot Chamber of Commerce Minot FFA Chapter Minot FFA Alumni Minot Welding Jeffrey Missling MN Select Sires Lane Moellenkamp Dean Moos Judy Moss Greg & Melissa Mostad Mouse River Soil Conserv. District Ron & Gwen Mueller Kim & Lee Murphy James A. Myhra John & Pam Nagel (Circle Y Farms) Jim Nayes Clint Nelson (Dakota Tube & Steel) Loel & Alma Nelson Roger Neshem Larry & Tami Neubauer Leonard & Lois Neubauer Paul Nilson MaryJane Nipstad Jeremy & Amy Norby ND Agri-Women ND Association of Fairs ND Assn. of Telecommunications Coop. ND Department of Agriculture ND Grape & Wine Assn. ND Grocers Assn. ND Implement Dealers ND Mill and Elevator ND PAS

VOLUME

ISSUE

ND Soybean Council ND Veterinary Medical Association ND Weed Control Association ND Winter Show NoDak Supply, Bottineau Northern Canola Growers Assn. Northern Pulse Growers Association Oakes/Sargent Central FFA Oakes/Sargent Central FFA Alumni Jay & Vangie Olson Ross Olson Kristy & Hanson Olstad Dan Onchuck Organic Crop Improvement Assn. Organizational Sales Co, Inc. Bill Ongstad Lynne & Rick Ostrem (Trophies n Tees) Pearce & Durick, Attorneys at Law Wes & Kathy Pepple Deb & Kelly Perhus Barbara Peterson Walter Piehl Pifer's Livestock Marketing Katie Pinke The Pizza Corner Pirogue Grill Prairie Knights Casino Praxair of Bismarck Premier Pulses International The Pretzer Family, (John & Donna, Stephanie, Daniel) Rahr Malting Co. for Taft Elevator Brenda Rambur Edith Rau RCC Western Stores R.D. Offutt Company RDO Equipment, Bismarck Red River Valley Sugarbeet Growers Assn. Levi & Katie Reese Jim Reistad Arnold & Carol Rethemeier James Retterath Richland 44 FFA Chapter Kristin Ripplinger Naomi & Dan Rodriquez Richard Roland (Legume Logic) Richland FFA Chapter Steve & Darcie Rolla Rolla FFA Chapter Romsdal Brothers Fran, Bob & Stu (Central Sales) Cameron Rudolph (R Twisted Ranch) S & J Hardware, Garrison Gary & Theresa (Mueller) Scheibelhut Don & Sharon Schilke Warren & Michal Schlecht Lucas Schmaltz Howard Schmid Tom & Pam Schmid Edwin & Dellora Schmidt Wayne & Debbie Schmitcke John W. Schulz Scranton FFA Chapter Select Inn, Bismarck Charles Shortridge Sigma Alpha Professional Ag Sorority Ervin Simonson Jim & Sandra Simonson Roger & Linda Skiftun Dorne Solberg Bob & Cathy Spangelo Grayson Spangelo Terry & Carlotta Spelhaug Dan Spellerberg St. John FFA Wendi Mizer Stachler & Family John and Gloria Steckler Delton & Lori Steele Stockmen's Supply Gary Straquadine Rick & Millie Steckler Steve & Cindy Strege Allan Stenehjem Denise Stoppleworth (IRONCLAD Marketing) SunPrairie Grain Alan Svangstu Taft Elevator Harvey Tallackson Kevin Teigen Lenny Tesky Tioga FFA Tires Plus - Lundeen Family

Beverly & Leland Tong Jason Topp Jessie Topp Tractor Supply Co. Trinidad Benham Corp. Jerry and Judy Tuhy James & Sheryl Turbiville & Nevada Turbiville Turtle Lake/Mercer FFA Chapter Richard Unkenholz James E Unterseher US Bank, Farm Ranch & Timber Manage. US Durum Growers Assn. Valley Plains Equipment Karen and Howard Van Bruggen Jenny Vandehoven Michael & Deb Vandehoven Ashley Vangsness Sam & Jan Vangsness Kevin Vannett Cole Vculek Velva FFA Chapter Vita Ferm Carla Vossler WBI Energy Wahpeton Ace Hardware Gary Wald Wallwork Truck Center Walmart Aaron & Jayme Walsh Brian & Andrea Walsh Kevin Walsh Phillip Wanner Terry Wanzek (TMT Farms) Helen Weed Wells Fargo Foundation Gary Wendel Joan & Jerry Wettlaufer Larry White Whiting Oil and Gas William F. White, Jr. Williston Chamber of Commerce Williston FFA Chapter Scott Wisness Donn Yatskis Jodie & Warren Woroniecki (Prairie Nutrition Center) Jeff & Lori Zahradka Justin Zahradka

Contributing Sponsors (up to $100)

7N Simmental Ranch Dean Aakre Anonymous Marilyn & Ole Aarsvold Tim & Carol Aichele Brian & Janice Albers Brian Anderson Paul Anderson, Victoria Seed & Processing Wade Anderson Area I Soil Conservation District Area II Soil Conservation District Area III Soil Conservation District Area IV Soil Conservation District Area V Soil Conservation District Marian Askim Craig & Margie Askim Benjamin Axtman Michael Bahm Jeremy Bahr Judge & Suzie Barth Michael Beeson Aneica Behm Keith Berger Sara Berger Lannis Bergsgaard Rodney Bischoff, Jr. Bismarck Tire Center Jim Blomberg Ken, Sharon, Jodi & Linsi Boe David Boehm Karl Bollingberg Robert Boone Dusti Borsheim David & Teresa Braaten Paul Brackelsberg Heidi Brandt Chris & Jennie Brossart Jeannine (Lovas) Bryant Joseph & Crystal (Bettenhausen) Bubulka Jackie & Sam Buckley

PAGE Pamela Burkhardt Robert & Debbie Campos Cashwise Foods Fargo Central Valley Bean Linda & Bruce Christianson Clear Channel Radio of Minot Marlen & Bev Coleman Ellen & Mike Connor Michael Connor Corwin Churchill Appliance Cowboy Rope Art Virgil & Sheryl Dagman Dakota Awards Dakota Specialty Milling Dakota Steel Art Dale Carnegie Business Group (Michelle Wall) Leonard Dalzell Kyle & Betsy Debertin Amanda & Josh DeMorrett Jeff Delzer Dickinson FFA Chapter Katie & Stuart Dilse Allen & Diane Dockter Bailey Dockter Barbara & Mark Domek Marsha Duchsherer Donut Hole Derrick & Angie Dukart Katelin Dukart James & Julie Dunnigan Krista Estenson Delbert Eszlinger Expressway Inn, Bismarck Farmers Co-op Elevator in Lidgerwood FARRMS Chad & Heather Feiring Kelly & Todd Finke Cheryl & Dave Flick Robert Foertsch Cody Folden Stephanie Lee Foughty Vernard Frederick JoDee Free Charles & Cheryl Funk Clint Goven Great Plains Agronomics Roberta Green Al & Peggy Gustin Elroy Haadem Donald Hagen Larry & Dorinda Hagen Gail Hagerty Levi Hall Kelly Hanson Tom & Leola Hanson Marcia Hartsoch Steven Haux Jody Heemstra Kevin & Brenda Heilman RaeDeen Heupel Harvey & Joyce Hirning Gary & Elaine Hoffman David Holkup Darren & Kristin Hoyme Toby and Ellen Huber Macey Isaacs Maynard Iverson Al & Kathy Jaeger Elizabeth (Rood) Jahn Nancy Johnson Kevin Johnston Arnold Jordan Jesse Jordan Ricky & Karen Just Gene Kaseman Mike & Michelle Keily Delise Kirkeide Aaron Kleingartner Craig Kleven Matt & Emily Kline Lynette Klosterman KMOT TV Minot Ron Knaust Randy Koenen Sara Krebs Andrew Kreidt Henry Kucera KXMC TV MInot Clinton B. Larson Perry & Brenda Laub Ginger Lautenschlager David Lautt (Lautt's Feed & Rental)

Angela Leier Jobey Lichtblau Lemmon Junior Livestock Joshua Lien Ruth & Dean Lindgren Duane Lura Mandi (Hetle) Lyons Sara Lyons M&M Sausage Heidi Mackintosh Hollis Marjorie Mafi George Maher Sharyl Maier Richard Maine Mandan Veterinary Clinic Norbert Mayer Betty Montgomery Cody Montgomery Mills Fleet Farm April E Mitchell Rita Mootz Corey Morlock Kirk & Lori Motl David & Patricia Mueller Mike Nagel Gordon & Darlene Nelson Kevin & Kristen Nelson Jan Ness Newman Signs Rita Nodland Northern Cass FFA Northern Plains Equipment, Mandan Michael Odegaard Jason & Carrie Odenbach Paul Oehlke Kasey Okke Allen Olson Beth Olson Sidney Olson James Onerheim James Ostlie Don and Jean Paulson Craig & Diane Pausch Heather Peacock Josh & Amy Peterson Phat Brothers Bakery/Donut Hole Stephanie Pretzer Monica Pritchett Brandon & Kay Quam Heather Quandt Railway Credit Union RAM Truck Test Drive Ramkota Inn Kady Rath Ed & Christine Rau Marita Rau David & Emily Reese Steve Retzer Keith & Denise Rheault Carol Rinde Lewis Richard Ringuette Sean & Katie Rinkenberger Adriana Rodriguez Garcia Kenneth Rostad Roughrider Harley Davidson Heidi Rue (Superior Insurance) Michael & Darla Rufer Richard Ruud Dale Rust Richard & Janet Sabol Felicia Sargeant Rodney Schaaf Chelsey Schafer Colton Schafer Corey Schafer Martin & Angie Schaff Chris & Ronda Schauer Allen & Lorraine Schmidt Gunhild Schmidt Donald Schwartz Jennifer (Teigen) & Ed Schwind Scranton FFA Alumni Kelsey Shawi Spencer Seidler Skiftun Farms Raymond Skorheim Ron Smithberg Wendy Solemsaas Lana Sondrol Mariah Sondrol

Continued on page 11

Production Agriculturalists and Agribusinesses are Producing Futures For less than $1 per day you, too, can enroll in the ND FFA Foundation’s Producing Futures Program and ensure ND FFA continues its mission to develop tomorrow’s advocates in agriculture! A $350 production-based donation enrolls you in the Producing Futures Program. To show our appreciation, we will give you a “I Support ND FFA” field sign that you can display. Your local FFA chapter will receive $50 of each donation. Complete the enrollment form below or visit us on the web at: www.ndffafoundation.com/Sign/ProducingFuturesProgram.htm Producer/Donor Name(s): _____________________________________________ Address:_______________________________________________________________ City:_______________________________State:________Zip:___________________ Phone: (____)__________________ Email (optional):___________________________ PAID

Amount $

*A minimum donation of $350 is requested.

Please designate which ND FFA chapter you’d like to receive a portion of this gift. (One chapter only please)

Chapter:________________________________________________________________ Questions: Call Beth Bakke Stenehjem (701-224-8390) or Tam Maddock (701) 212-5235.

*Please mail this form to: Beth Bakke Stenehjem ND FFA Foundation PO Box 6022 Bismarck, ND 58506-6022

JOIN THESE NEIGHBORS IN SUPPORTING THE PRODUCING FUTURES PROGRAM General donation: Jessica Koerner In Honor of Berthold FFA: Von and Doreen Lynne In Honor of Beulah FFA: Mellmer Farms ETSM (Tracy and Darlene Mellmer), Cenex/Hotstuff of Beulah In Honor of Bismarck FFA: Robb Boyd, Triple M Ranch In Honor of Carrington FFA: Troy & Jane Rosenau, Bruce & Lynelle Bachmeier, Brent & Stephanie Bachmeier (3 sponsorships) In Honor of Central Cass: Peterson Farms (Julie Peterson) Have you or someone you know recently In Honor of Divide County FFA: Roy Olin (multiple times) moved, or do you know someone who In Honor of Edgeley-Kulm FFA: Dakota Auto Electric, LLP should be getting the ND FFA Foundation In Honor of Enderlin FFA: Dorinda & Vaughn Zacharias, Vance Zacharias newsletter? If so, email Tam Maddock at In Honor of Fessenden-Bowdon FFA: Fessenden Cooperative Association tamra.maddock@btinet.net. In Honor of Gackle-Streeter FFA: Gutschmidt MFG, LLC In Honor of Garrison FFA: Garrison Farmers Union Elevator In Honor of Harvey FFA: Bill & Sam Ongstad In Honor of Hazen FFA: Basin Electric Power Coop/Dakota Gasification Company In Honor of Hebron FFA: Jodie & Warren Woroniecki (Prairie Nutrition Center) In Honor of Kenmare FFA: Jesse & Stephanie Cook In Honor of Kindred FFA: Jesse and Stephanie Cook, Mara and Bruce Glasow In Honor of Larimore FFA: Michael Ostrem in memory of Max Danner In Honor of Maddock A.S. Gibbens FFA: Tom & Pam Schmid, . Scott & Vicki Foss, Cendak Farmers Union Coop, Johnson Ag Resources, Edwin & Preston Gilderhus, Maddock A.S. Gibbens Red River Farm Network partners FFA Chapter with ND and MN FFA at Big Iron In Honor of Mandan FFA: Kurtis Schaff In Honor of Medina FFA: Dwight and Christina Dockter At the Big Iron Farm Show, Red River Farm In Honor of Minot FFA: Bourgault Industries Network hosted a silent auction with proceeds benefitting In Honor of New Salem FFA: George & Mary Kreidt/Kreidt Farm Inc ND and MN FFA. In Honor of Northern Cass FFA: Michael Ostrem Thanks to all who donated auction items: In Honor of Oakes/Sargent Central: Brian and Julie Vculek In Honor of Park Lake: Jeff & Lori Zahradka Courtyard by Marriot Rodeway Inn In Honor of Powers Lake FFA: Mark & Raquel Nelson, Fargo-Moorhead Shooting Star Casino Marlow & Joyce Nelson Days Inn & Governor's Summers Mfg In Honor of Ray FFA: Steve Zimmerman Conference Center SunOpta Food Group LLC In Honor of Rugby FFA: Michael Ostrem Field Drainage, Inc. Titan Machinery In Honor of Scranton FFA: Mellmer Farms (Mike & Heidi Mellmer) Holiday Inn of Fargo Wensman Seed Company In Honor of Wahpeton FFA: Chris Johnson (C&S Farms)

Lynnes Welding Training ND Farm Bureau ND Farmers Union Insurance Proseed

Plains Grain & Agronomy of Enderlin Beth & Wayne Stenehjem

PAGE Continued from page 9

In Honor of Our Friends & Loved Ones

South McHenry Soil Conservation District Verne Spengler Glenn Stastny Ken & Peggy Stauffer Aaron Steckler John Steffan Kara Stegner Charles Steinberger Peggy Stenehjem-Titus Carlyle Stenberg Robert Strand LuAnn Stromme (Stromme Farms) Aaron & Sheyna Strommen (Strommen Ranch) Joyce Sukut Mike & Gail Swan Josh Swanson Derek & Jennifer Swenson Bridget Syversen (Syversen Farm & Machinery) Taft Elevator, Div. of Rahr Malting Co Ryan & Nikki Taylor Jeff Teubner Tom & Sherry Thingvold (TS Farms) David & Frances Thompson Kari Titus Kristi Tonnessen The Toy Farmer The Union Bank Robert Vallie Lance Van Berkom Doug & LInda Vannurden Jenna Vculek Katie Vculek Pamela Volochenko Karen Vossler Ken and Tammy Votava Michelle Wall Phillip Wanner Lyle & Pat Warner Aaron Weber Rueben Weigelt Glen & Iadell Weinmann Bill & Janet Well Michelle Well Ken & Diane Werk Lyle & Susan Westrom Western Veterinary Clinic Don & Kollen Wick Jeffrey & Greta Whelan Ron & Sheila Willardsen Mark & Rachelle Williams Wishek FFA Chapter Wishek FFA Alumni Milo & Julie Wisness Mikayla Young

In Honor of Joel Janke: Gary Straquadine, Howard & Audrey Lahlum, Tim Brown, Doug &Leann Bremner, Brian & Mary Schneider, Dale Carpentier, Wes & Kathy Pepple, Harvey Tallackson, Jim Nayes, Ted Johnson, Rick Steckler, Glen & Iadell Weinmann, Kelly Hanson, Howard & Karen Van Bruggen, Ken & Tammy Votava, Raymond Skorheim, Bill & Janet Well, Al & Pat Giese, Cindy & Oscar Lundquist, Joel & Joyce Janke, Beth & Wayne Stenehjem, Chris & Ronda Schauer, Dean & Kristi Wehri, Larry & Aneica Behm, Tam & Rob Maddock, Dean & Marianne Moos, Bruce & Lynelle Bachmeier, Jeff & Leann Schafer, Joan & Jerry Wettlaufer, Jim & Jody Hauge, Janell & Keith Hauck, Troy and Bobbie Jo Uglem, Jennifer & Edward Schwind, Kenton Holle, Mark & Raquel Nelson, April & Ed Mitchell, Jean & Tammy Meyer, Bridgette Readel, Jessica (Anderson) Ruhland In Honor of Earl Bornemann: Donor Dwight Reuther In Memory of Max Danner: Donors Joan & Jerry Wettlaufer In Memory of Allan Wettlaufer: Donors Joan & Jerry Wettlaufer In Memory of Leland Olsen: Donors Joan & Jerry Wettlaufer In Memory of Ernie Bakke: Donors Joan & Jerry Wettlaufer In Memory of Dorothea Giese: Donors Joan & Jerry Wettlaufer In Memory of Marlys Haugland: Donors Joan & Jerry Wettlaufer In Memory of Lester Zorn: Donors Joan & Jerry Wettlaufer In Memory of Michael Timmerman: Donor Rolla FFA Chapter In Memory of Kade Hansen: Donors Jeff & Jan Topp, Bill & Janet Well, Bruce & Lynelle Bachmeier, Jason & Ashley (Vangsness) Frerichs, Blaise & Melanie Dukart, Rick Vannett, Gary Martens, Brooke (Jameson) Thiel, Brian Duchsherer, Michael & Joleen Scott, Ted & Mary Johnson, Roger Neshem, Al & Linda Kuntz, Rodney & Karen Armstrong, Toni Bennett, Julie Miller, Gregory & Jody Endres, Rob & Tam Maddock, Trevor & Misty Steeke, Wade & Renae Anderson In Memory of Jean Zetocha: Donor Virgil Dagman In Memory of Mike Esposito: Donor Dwight Reuther In Memory of Frank Manderfeld: Donor Mary Linehan In Memory of William Drummond: Donor Annette Drummond In Memory of Jessica Schwab: Donors Lori & David Schwab, Ransom County Sportsmens Club In Memory of Nick Germann: Donors Trevor, Misty and Steeke family, and Josh & Amanda DeMorrett In Memory of Lori Schneider: Donors Mary Schneider & Brian Schneider In Memory of Rosemary Debertin: Donor Richard Debertin In Memory of Stuart Bakewell: Donors Linda Bakewell & Kristin Underhill & April Frieze

Every attempt is made to include the names of all of our donors. If your name was missed, please contact us.



ND FFA Foundation

Here’s how:

Amazon will donate 0.5% of the price of your eligible AmazonSmile purchases to North Dakota FFA Foundation whenever you shop on AmazonSmile.  AmazonSmile is the same Amazon you know. Same products, same prices, same service.  Support the North Dakota FFA Foundation by starting your shopping at www.smile.amazon.com.

A GLIMPSE OF NATIONAL FFA CONVENTION 2015

PAGE 12

Like us On

Find us on Facebook, “ND FFA Foundation” And stay up-to-date on the events and accomplishments of our more than 4700 ND FFA members.

A Message from the President On behalf of the ND FFA Foundation board of directors, I would like to thank all of our sponsors and supporters. Funds received by the foundation allow many students the financial assistance to enhance their education. Congratulations also to all members, advisors, and staff representing the ND FFA Association at the National FFA Convention including Justin Zahradka for being named the 2015 American Star in Agriscience. I’d also like to take this opportunity to remind you of a few upcoming foundation events. Giving Hearts Day will be February 11, 2016. On that day, you can go to impactgiveback.org and give as little as $10.00 to make a huge difference. The foundation is currently looking for donors who would pledge a $1,000 or more to help match funds on this special day. The ND FFA Foundation is also excited about the newest options and tools available to pledge support. Each time you shop at SmileAmazon.com (same great items as Amazon.com) 0.5% of the purchase price will be given to the ND FFA Foundation. Simply choose the ND FFA Foundation and shop as you normally would.

Schedule of Events 2016 Jan. 9-10

Greenhand 101, 212, & 360 Conferences in Bismarck

Feb. 11

Giving Hearts Day, visit www.impactgiveback.org

Feb. 20-27

National FFA Week

March 21

Winter CDE Competitions—Minot

June 6-10

ND State FFA Convention—Fargo

June 14-24 ND State Officer Training July 22-30 ND State Fair– Minot August 8

Ag Education After Hours - Bismarck

We’d also like to remind you of the endowment for Joel Janke. We are raising funds to give deserving FFA members scholarships in Joel’s name. Current initiatives have also been successful this past year. The Annual Auction was held at the ND State Fair. It was a huge success again thanks to all donors and supporters. January will see the annual Winter Leadership Conference in Bismarck. At this conference members will be awarded jackets from generous donors to the Blue Jackets Bright Futures program, SAE grants, and members will again be working making blankets for Project Linus. The very best to all of you for a wonderful holiday season and thank you for your continued support!

Dorinda Zacharias

The Numbers Don’t Lie! ND FFA Members are Making a Difference!

PAGE

Every day ND FFA members across the state live their motto, “Learning to do, doing to learn, earning to live, living to serve.” In 2015, ND had 52 American FFA Degree recipients and 202 State FFA Degree recipients. These 252 degree recipients are out there preparing for careers, developing their leadership skills, and helping their communities. Below are some amazing numbers regarding these members’ SAE earnings and community service hours. “This means that from 252 FFA members completing degree applications this past year, they had SAE earnings over $4,149,147. That’s a big impact on the economy of North Dakota and over 25,381 community services hours given back to their communities over their ag ed enrollment,” says State Advisor Aaron Anderson. In addition to these impressive numbers check out the careers being pursued by our American Degree recipients: ag sales, diesel technology, mechanical engineering, agribusiness, electrical technology, medicine, agricultural education, elementary education, human development/family science, nursing, agronomy, farm and ranch management, physical therapy, fire administration, graphic design, respiratory therapy, biological sciences, instrumentation and control, renewable energy, business, John Deere technician, computer information systems, marketing, veterinary technology, crop and weed sciences, welding, and wildlife biology. 52 American Degree Recipients (ages 18-21)

202 State Degree Recipients (high school juniors and seniors)

Total Earnings from their SAEs

$1,696,032

$2,453,115

Total Growth in their projects through their Ag Education enrollment1

$1,057,531

$1,943,405

Total Unpaid exploratory/work hours2

50,327

72,150

Total Community Service Hours

7,807

17,574

1. Growth in their project while they were FFA members 2. Unpaid work hours (typically hours they worked for family on farms, ranches and homes while exploring potential employment and entrepreneurial opportunities.)

Five Receive the Honorary American FFA Degree FFA’s success relies on the support of exceptional teachers, individuals, and donors who provide life-changing experiences for FFA members. This year four individuals were nominated by the ND FFA Foundation and ND FFA Association for the role they play in shaping ND FFA and the National FFA Organization. This year’s recipients of the Honorary American FFA Degree were Steve Edwardson, Tony Boehm, Larry Lundberg, Jeff Ball, and the late Max Danner. Steve Edwardson is the executive administrator of the ND Barley Council. Tony Boehm is the advisor at Richland 44, Larry Lundberg is the advisor at Killdeer, Jeff Ball is an advisor at Minot, and the late Max Danner was the instructor at Larimore. Max’s family received his degree in his memory. We congratulate these gentlemen on their induction as Honorary American Degree recipients and thank them for their service to the ND FFA and agriculture education. 2015 Honorary American FFA Degree recipients: Steve Edwardson, ND Barley Council; Jeff Ball, Minot advisor; Barb Danner and sons on behalf of Max Danner, Larimore advisor; Tony Boehm, Richland 44 advisor ; Larry Lundberg, Killdeer advisor .

Miller Named National Proficiency Finalist Zac James Miller, Richland 44, was a finalist in Ag Mechanics Repair and Maintenance proficiency area at the National FFA Convention. Zac began work for James Overby Zac with his advisor Tony Boehm at Farms before he could even this year’s National FFA Convention. drive, often riding dirt bike to work. Zac started his supervised agricultural experience (SAE) with very little experience in farm work or equipment repair, but that soon changed. After hours of observation, Zac was soon trusted to make repairs and conduct maintenance on his uncle’s equipment. Skills Zac gained through his SAE work and participation in FFA activities gave him the confidence to enroll in the John Deere Technician program at NDSCS in Wahpeton. Zac is a member of the Richland 44 FFA Chapter, advisor Tony Boehm. His parents are David and Tammy Miller of Colfax.

VOLUME

ISSUE

News from Our Star Partners

The ND FFA Foundation’s mission is to support the activities of agriculture education and the FFA. Agriculture education is all about exposing students to career possibilities in the agriculture industry and teaching transferable life skills to help students grow personally and professionally. Our Star Partners are a vital to this mission. Do you want reliable employees with great skills?

Become a Star Partner today.

Are you already a STAR PARTNER with news to share about your organization? Scholarships, internships? Contact us to advertise these opportunities here!

ND State FFA officers present Ben Sander and Deb Anderson of Summers with a 50th Anniversary congratulatory plaque. Thank you, Summers!

The “East Team” of state officers stopped to visit with First International Bank & Trust in Harvey. While there they visited with past ND state FFA officers Dennis Walsh and Jason Schneider both of the 1976-77 team.

PAGE

Minn-Dak Chapter 26, IH Collectors Club Awards Park River FFA with Tractor At the start of the 2015 school year Chapter 26 of the Minn-Dak IH Collectors Club encouraged FFA chapters to complete an application to be awarded 1946 Farmall H tractor to restore. Park River FFA received this year’s tractor.

“Our primary goal is to promote and preserve IH collecting, restoration, and display processes using pieces from our members’ collection. In doing so, we will help preserve, research and complete the history of the International Harvester company,” says member Nate Schlief. Their club is part of a 7,300 member, world-wide collectors network of IH enthusiasts.

You Never Really Outgrow It! The FFA is not an organization that you can forget about once you’ve left high school! It is always there - the memories, the friends, the leadership gained, and skills you’ve learned. We want you to share that pride with others around you and are asking you to “Bring your jacket to work” during the National FFA Week from February 20-27, 2016. Display your jacket on the back of your work chair, hang it in your car for all to see, put it on your coat rack at work. We know that it may take some time to find your jacket — but it’s still there; maybe in the attic, in that back closet, or in that box of high school memories. Show everyone you know that you support the FFA and that you are

FOREVER BLUE!

SPONSORS NEEDED for the following areas!

Washington Leadership Conference Scholarships - $350 each Ag Education Scholarships - $1,000 each for students seeking an ag education degree Matching donors for Giving Hearts Day â&#x20AC;&#x201C; $1000 or more to match funds given on February 11, 2016.

Can you help?

Call Beth or Tam at the foundation or email Beth at bethbakke@btinet.net

Prefer to get this newsletter electronically? If so, email Beth at bethbakke@btinet.net or Tam at tamra.maddock@btinet.net, or call the foundation at 701-224-8390, and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll get you set up to received this newsletter via email.

Congratulations, Mr. Steve Zimmerman ,for your induction as a Honorary Member of the ND State Fair Board.

www.ndffafoundation.com 909 Basin Avenue PO Box 6022 Bismarck, ND 58506-6022 701-224-8390

ND FFA FOUNDATION

Bismarck, ND Permit 419 PAID US Postage Presorted Standard