Minneota FFA seniors that attended the state convention include (left to right) Justin Buysse, Lauryn Hansen and Donnie Schuelke.Justin Buysse (left) and Emily Buysse were awarded their state degrees.

Local FFA involved in state convention

Members of the Minneota FFA Chapter spent Sunday through Tuesday at the Minnesota State FFA Convention on the campus of the University of Minnesota in the Twin Citiies.

Nearly 20 FFA members from Minneota competed in different events, attended educational sessions and participated in official business. This year’s convention theme was, “All In. Where does your legacy begin?”

The keynote Speaker for the convention was Gian Paul Gonzalez, a high school teacher from New Jersey who spoke to the New York Giants a few years ago to help motivate them to win the championship that season.

Attendee Brooke Moorse said, “He was an amazing speaker! He held my attention and his story and message were very moving. The line to meet him afterwards was very long!”

Donnie Schuelke served as a representative from Region V on the state nominating committee. The committee interviews and decides which candidates become state officers and which positions they will hold. Schuelke also competed in the dairy handling competition.

Kira Gifford and Gared Moorse represented Minneota in the state choir. The choir performed throughout the convention. Gifford also had a solo during one of the performances.

Lauryn Hansen and Rachel Vlaminck served as voting delegates for Minneota. They participated in official business and were the official voters for Minneota.

Brenden Kimpe, Levi Vierstraete, Tony DeSmet and Travis Engels competed in the Wildlife and Fisheries competition. As a team, they placed 34th overall out of 50 teams.

The General Livestock team consisted of Carly Van Keulen, Gared Moorse, Cody Gifford and alternate Brady Gifford. Cody Gifford placed 15th individually and the team also placed 15th overall out of 57 teams.

The Dairy Cattle Evaluation team had an off day as team members Justin Buysse, Emily Buysse, Logan Schuelke, Grady Moorse and alternate Brooke Moorse placed 23rd overall out of 57 teams.

Justin Buysse and Emily Buysse were both awarded their state degrees.

The FFA will host their annual awards banquet at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, May 3 at the Minneota High School Cafeteria.

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