Jourdanton FFA members that traveled to Corpus Christi for the 84th annual Texas FFA Convention pictured (l-r) back row: Kloe Burris, Kaitlin Hindes, Carly Zuniga, Ian Hons, Kyle House, Murray Grimshaw; middle row: Amantha Hons, Michelle House, Jennifer Alvord, Allison Matocha, Sammie Muckleroy, Hailey Higginbotham, Blanca Baeza; front row: Kathryn Klumb, Amanda Lanier. Not pictured: Kye Burris, Kayla Muckleroy, Cassidy Key. During the week of July 9-13, 18 Jourdanton FFA members attended the Texas FFA Convention in Corpus Christi.

Over the week, students listened to inspiring keynote speakers, voted for the 2012-2013 Texas FFA president, heard the current state officers give their retiring addresses, and participated in the Texas FFA business session.

Three members were state finalists in speaking contests: Amanda Lanier in Extemporaneous Speaking, Michelle House in Soil Stewardship Speaking, and Allison Matocha in Jr. Prepared Speaking. Dustin Hunter was recognized as a proficiency winner in Goat Production. Kathryn Klumb and Cassidy Key were candidates for state Stare Greenhand and Star American Farmer. Fiver\ students, Jessica Alaniz, Jennifer Alvord, Blanca Baeza, Kayla Muckleroy, and Jack Riggs received their Lone Star degrees. Amantha Hons was awarded a $16,000 scholarship, and Murray Grimshaw received $4,000. Amantha Hons and Kye Burris also received $1,000 San Antonio tour guide scholarships.

State finalists in speaking contests (l-r) Allison Matocha, Michelle House, and Amanda Lanier. Throughout the week, members participated in fun activities such as the attending the Wade Bowen concert, convention dance and fun night, walking through the exhibit hall, and viewing a special showing of the movie Deep in the Heart.

All who attended had a great time and learned valuable information to improve themselves and their chapter. We hope this kicks off another successful year for Jourdanton FFA.