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Step Right Up

10 reasons you can't miss the national FFA convention

Step Right Up

For many members, the convention is about bonding as a chapter.



September 2008

In less than a month, more than 50,000 of you will be bound for Indianapolis – ready to create memories at the 81st National FFA Convention. The convention, themed “Step Up. Stand Out,” kicks off on Wednesday, Oct. 22, and ends on Saturday, Oct. 25. So what’s in store for you? A lot of good times, motivational experiences and new friends to meet!

But more specifically, here’s our top 10 list of what’s new and note­worthy at this year’s convention. As many of our returning attendees know, you can’t fit all that’s great about the convention into one list. So after you finish reading our top 10, head to ffanewhorizons.org for even more exciting announcements and news!

1. Lucas Oil Stadium
If you attended the past two national FFA conventions, you likely attended some events in the RCA Dome. You probably also saw the construction on a brand-new facility, and this year, it’s ready for us to use! Home of the Indianapolis Colts, Lucas Oil Stadium will be used for several convention events, including state photos, concerts, the food court, the Stars Over America pageant and the American Degree Ceremony.

2. Convention Concerts
This year’s Wednesday-night convention concert is a true treat – former FFA member and major country music artist Taylor Swift is performing! Joining her will be James Otto, and on Thursday, Michael Peterson takes the stage along with Living Illusions.

You’ll also see more great entertainment in the food court, where up-and-coming artists will be performing as part of the Chevy acoustic stage. Check out convention.ffa.org for information on purchasing concert tickets and the full lineup.

And as always, you should make plans to attend the National FFA Band and Chorus concert and the various other venues where FFA members show off their own talents.

3. National Days of Service
In its third year, the FFA National Days of Service has become a favorite convention event. FFA members become Indianapolis volunteers during their visit to the city, by giving their time to support local organizations like Habitat for Humanity and Gleaners Food Bank. This year, the event sponsor, Toyota, is providing lunch to all Days of Service participants, and a mini-celebration will be held at each site in recognition of the contributions made.

4. The Laser Show
Back by popular demand, convention attendees will enjoy a thrilling laser show at each general session. If you’ve never seen a national FFA convention laser show, get ready to be amazed!

5. Career Show
The National FFA Agricultural Career Show gets better and better every year! Be sure to visit this year’s show to see the new booths, favorites from previous years (everyone loves the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile) and win great prizes.

6. Convention Souvenirs
Just next door to the career show, you can find all sorts of FFA merchandise to commemorate your trip to the 81st National FFA Convention. Visit more than 30 stores, including John Deere, Cowpoke, Tractor Supply Co., DEKALB WingWear and more.

7. National FFA Officers
During the convention, we’ll hear powerful speeches from Zach, Becky, Morgan, Brady, Kari and Tyler, then be able to thank them for their year of service as we welcome six new National FFA Officers for 2008-09.

8. Broncs, Bulls and More
Bring your boots and cowboy hats for two great Western events. The World’s Toughest Bulls and Broncs event on Thursday night will crown champions in bareback riding, saddle bronc riding and bull riding. On Friday, the Xtreme Bulls event highlights 40 of the world’s top bull riders, all vying for $85,000, during two shows.

9. Tours and Day Trips
More than 30 tours and day trips have been organized for the national FFA convention. So take a day during the week to learn more about agriculture in the area. You could tour agricultural businesses like Dow AgroSciences or even tour a gourmet popcorn farm. The full listing of tours can be found at convention.ffa.org.

10. It’s All Interactive
And the best part of the national FFA convention? You can enjoy it from anywhere. Even for those of you who can’t make it to Indy next month, you can watch the general sessions on RFD-TV or at convention.ffa.org.

You can also go online for the latest news and updates at ffanewhorizons.org.

Story by Kim Newsom
Photography by Staff


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The National FFA Organization is dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. Visit ffa.org