“Discover your Adventure” That was the theme of the 83rd Annual California State FFA Leadership Conference that was held April 16-19 in Fresno. Fillmore FFA sent 16 students to attend the 4 day convention which was jammed packed with award recognitions, workshops, motivational speakers, a concert, farm tour and the highly anticipated announcement of the 2011-2012 State Officer Team!

The energetic crowd of over 4,0000 members, advisors, guests and alumni filled Selland Arena. During the opening session the 49 names of the 2011-2012 State officer candidates where announced. Over the next four days the candidates would go through numerous interviews, exams and challenges to be narrowed down to just 12. On Monday the delegates, two students chosen from each chapter would vote to elect the 6 individuals who would represent the California FFA in the following year. Mr. Ricards had chosen Riley Wright and Aaron Largen to represent Fillmore FFA as delegates and they were more then ready for the challenge.

While at the convention the attendees listened to motivational speakers Josh Shipp and Brooks Gibbs. Both speakers had powerful messages and encouraged us to overcome obstacles, not feel sorry for ourselves and to always give our best. Sunday we attended educational workshops at Fresno State University. The workshops are designed to teach various leadership skills such as ice breakers, team work, and building self confidence. Fillmore FFA members attended a workshop lead by Fillmore Alumni and current Chico state student Ben Aguirre. The workshop taught teamwork and communication through games. On Monday the students attended a career fair to learn about agricultural colleges and careers. We then attended a farm tour of the San Joaquin Valley Agricultural Science Center. The center develops new varieties and technology to enhance fresh fruit quality and safety. That night the members were entertained by country music artists ‘Gloriana”. Tuesday morning found us eagerly awaiting the announcements of the new State Team but not before hearing the emotional retiring addresses from the current State Vice President and State President. Finally the new team was revealed. Fillmore FFA is proud to announce that Kenna Lewis from our own South Coast Region is the 2011-2012 Vice President! Good luck to the 2011-2012 California State FFA Officer Team.

The convention was an amazing experience and Fillmore FFA members returned having leaned valuable lessons and skills to share at the chapter level.

Brooke Aguirre is Fillmore FFA's Chapter Reporter