Indiana Agriculture Insider

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Indiana FFA Convention brings thousands of blue jackets to Purdue

 

I can, we will: Four words brought thousands of Indiana FFA members together at Purdue University for the 89th Indiana FFA State Convention. There, they participated in competitions, career development events, workshops, speeches, service projects and much more.

FFA

FFA State Convention gives Indiana’s FFA members the chance to connect, make new friendships and develop as leaders — all while celebrating their dedication and commitment to the organization throughout the year.

Together, more than 300 members gave back to their community by making blankets for those in need during the annual community service project. The members were joined by Lt. Governor Suzanne Crouch and National FFA President Breanna Holbert.

Beyond the community service project, students were busy competing for awards, listening to speakers and/or attending general sessions over the course of four days.
 

Community Service Project 1

During large general sessions hosted by state FFA officers, members heard from speakers ranging from Governor Eric Holcomb to motivational speaker and Paralympian Josh Sunquist to performances from the state chorus and band.

During each session, one or two of the state officers delivered a retiring address, a final speech to inspire, encourage and motivate attendees. Here’s an excerpt from FFA President Claire Baney’s retiring address.

“Often times we doubt our thoughts or contributions as valuable, necessary, or powerful enough to change our world. But, they are.”

At the final general session, delegates from the 12 state districts elected the 2018-19 state officer team. To learn more about the seven new officers, click here.

Outstanding FFA members were honored for their leadership and hard work during general sessions. Below is a list of some of this year’s honorees:

  • Click here to see 2018 Indiana FFA Stars.
  • Click here to see the Honorary Degree and Distinguished Service Recipients.
  • Click here to see the Outstanding Service Award.

The convention was made possible by the state officer team, who spent months planning the event.  Without them, sponsor support, Indiana FFA staff, FFA advisors, volunteers and FFA members, the convention would not have been a success.

For more information about Indiana FFA, please visit www.inffa.org.


Explore Indiana agriculture this summer 

Picking fresh berries, seeing livestock up close or stopping by your local farmers market  visiting an agritourism destination could be the start of a new tradition for your family. Whether it’s planning your next day trip or weekend getaway, this summer is the perfect time to explore Indiana agriculture and experience life on the farm.
 

Food

Indiana has more than 300 locations to choose from, each offering a unique farm or food based experience. Visitors can spend the day picking berries or apples on one of Indiana’s 100+ u-pick farms, or stop by a local farmers market for fresh seasonal produce. Kids can get their hands dirty in a garden, go for a hayride or learn from the farmer how their food is grown or raised.

Indiana’s agritourism destinations also include a variety of award-winning culinary hot spots, such as wineries, breweries, distilleries and farm-to-fork restaurants. These venues offer local flavors and experiences that can only be found in the Hoosier state.

In today’s fast-paced world, as more people become removed from the farm, it’s important to understand where your food comes from. With all of the advances in technology, one of the best ways to do that is by visiting a farm.
 

Agritourism

Click here to find an agritourism destination near you.

You can also download the Indiana Agritourism Guide by clicking here or the Indiana Brewery and Winery Guide by clicking here. Make sure you check the location’s website first before scheduling your visit, as some are only open seasonally.

This information was provided by a joint collaboration between the Indiana State Department of Agriculture and the Indiana Office of Tourism Development.


KEY DATES

July 4
Offices Closed - Independence Day

July 10
Indiana Land Resources Council meeting - Martinsville, Ind.


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Explore Indiana Agriculture This Summer


CONTACT ISDA

Indiana State Department of Agriculture 
One North Capitol Avenue, Suite 600 
Indianapolis, IN 46204
317.232.8770
317.232.1362 FAX
Communications@isda.in.gov