Abby FFA takes to Indianapolis for the 96th National Convention
By Kara Larson
Abbotsford FFA sent members to the 96th National FFA Convention and Expo November 1-4. Members present included Khloe Frahman (president), Landen Plockeleman (vice president), Kara Larson (vice president), Marcus VanLuven (secretary), Sophie Kulesa (treasurer), Edwin Aguilera (reporter) and Halie Van-Luven (sentinel). Over the course of the four-day trip, the group visited several farms, the Indianapolis Zoo and attended several sessions at the Lucas Oil Stadium.
The trip to Indianapolis began on Wednesday, Nov. 1. We spent a majority of our time traveling, but took a quick stop in Champaign, Ill. to tour Prairie Fruits Farm and Creamery. There we saw where they house their goats, viewed the operation of their parlor, and tasted fresh goat milk, cheese and gelato.
On the second day, we started at the convention center, attending the opening session. We learned tips for being successful from keynote speaker Juan Bendana. After lunch, we set out to tour Hunter’s Honey Farm and Cikana State Fish Hatchery. At Hunter’s we learned about honeybee anatomy and how they process their honey. Students were able to bottle their own honey to take home! At Cikana we got to tour their indoor facilities and outdoor ponds. We learned about their processes and the types of fish they raise.
On the third day, we attended the fourth general session, where we listened to keynote speaker Corey Flournoy. Corey had an amazing message for FFA, telling everyone to pursue their dreams even if they seem impossible. That afternoon we spent time attending workshops, shopping in the mall, and visiting different booths in the expo center. We wrapped up our day with fun at a glow-in-the-dark trampoline park.
On our last day, we set out early and visited the Indianapolis Zoo before attending the seventh general session. We watched the National Band and Chorus perform for the last time, the retiring of the 2022-2023 National officer team, and the election and installation of the 2023– 2024 National officers.
The trip was very tiring but we were all thankful to be able to attend the 96th National FFA Convention and Expo. We had early mornings and late evenings, but the friends and memories we made will follow us, and help us encourage other kids to take the chance and join FFA.
TAKING TO THE NATIONAL STAGE - Abby FFA members spent a few days in Indianapolis for the National FFA Convention in early November. From left to right are: Adviser Jillian Lebal, Edwin Cossio Aguilera, Landen Ploeckelman, Kara Larson, Khloe Frahmann, Sophie Kulesa, Halie VanLuven and Marcus VanLuven.
