My little brother Sawyer has been the State FFA (Future Farmers of America) officer sentinel for Utah for the past year, and I had the opportunity to introduce him at the State FFA convention in Richfield for his retiring address.
I am so unbelievably proud of Sawyer. He has worked so hard this past year. He was gone almost every single week, traveling around the state teaching and training high school state officers. He has been an advocate for agriculture education and even represented our state at the FFA nationals in Indianapolis, and at the state legislature.
He has grown so much over the last couple of years. He used to be such a quiet and reserved kid, but this weekend, I watched him give a speech in front of 1580 people that was so inspiring and moving, that when I looked around, everyone in the audience was crying. He received a well deserved standing ovation. I never would have imagined my brother doing something like that. I know I couldn't (I was shaking like a leaf just introducing him!).
When I was in High School, I never even thought about joining FFA. I was busy with dance and distance education courses and I always thought that FFA was only for the students who lived on big farms or orchards. Images of Napoleon Dynamite came to mind. I had no idea it included so many aspects of agriculture such as botany, agriscience, horticulture and so much more.
After spending 3 days at the convention, I wish I had joined FFA in high school. These kids believe in the future of agriculture. Only 2% of the worlds population are farmers, but 100% of the worlds population needs to eat. These are the kids who will make sure we are all taken care of.
I'd like to challenge everyone to help support local farmers. Summer-time means farmers markets are being set up, where you can get amazing, healthy and locally grown food and handmade products. Plus, it's nice to get out and enjoy the weather. Who doesn't like to do their grocery shopping outside? Also, if you would like to support your local high school FFA or agriculture education program, many schools sell flowers and vegetables that the students have planted themselves during the spring and summer. And of course, you can always go to your state fair!
Congrats Sawyer on receiving a proficiency award in landscape management, on being a dedicated FFA state sentinel, and on helping and inspiring so many people.
And congratulations to all the retiring 2011-2012 Utah FFA State Officers on a job well done! All of your RA's were inspiring and I am amazed at your hard work, dedication and faith in the future of agriculture!
