The Pettisville FFA Alumni and Friends organization recently awarded four current and former FFA members with college scholarships.

Clara Damman, daughter of Andy and Bree Damman, is attending Murray State University majoring in Agronomy. She is active in the Agricultural Future of America, Stock Equestrian Team and the Agronomy Club at Murray State. She plans to return to northwest Ohio and assist farmers in growing healthy crops and maintaining healthy soils and someday have her own agronomy company. While in high school she served as Reporter and 2nd vice president, participated in vet science, soils, parliamentary procedure, agronomy contests, and attended state and national FFA conventions. She will receive her American FFA Degree this fall.

Jessica McWatters, daughter of Tom and Angie McWatters, is attending Huntington University, IN majoring in science education. She plans to teach biological sciences. Jessica has worked the past two summers at the Fulton County OSU Extension office helping with research to collect pest and soil data and results. While in high school she served as the FFA President, participated in soils, parliamentary procedure, agronomy contests, and attended state and national conventions. She was successful in Agriscience Project work and received her State and America FFA Degrees.

Leah Beck, daughter of Reggie and April Beck, will be attending Grace College majoring in wildlife biology. She plans to one day have a career in wildlife biology or in conservation. Leah is a high school senior and has been active in sports, musicals, Spanish Club, FCA and is a class officer. In FFA, she served as Sentinel and was a Top Scholar Award and Ron Rupp Leadership Award recipient. Leah participated in agronomy, dairy cattle, farm business management, parliamentary procedure, and wildlife management career development events.

Luke Van Den Berghe, son of Nathan and Sharon, will be attending Bob Jones University majoring in business next fall. During his FFA years, he has served as 2nd Vice President, Secretary and Vice President and participated in soils, agronomy and farm business management. Luke was a Star Chapter and Star Junior Achievement winner. He worked for Spartan Construction and was active in sports and on Student Council.

The Alumni is proud to be able to support these Pettisville students in their pursuit of higher education in the agriculture industry. FFA Alumni Affiliates were formed to operate in support of the over 8,900 local chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. Their purpose is to help today's agricultural youth by joining together in a united volunteer effort to assist FFA, promote a greater knowledge of the agricultural industry, and support education in local agricultural education programs.

Lexie Poulson, Pettisville FFA Alumni Reporter

In early March seven Pettisville teams competed in Career Development Events (CDEs). The Ag Mechanic Skills Team of Ben Boger, Jayden Bleikamp, and Justin Sierra placed fourth in the district. Ben Boger placed second individually. The Ag Mech CDE is a practical method of testing students’ abilities to properly conduct mechanical skills.

The Outdoor Power Team of Ben Boger, Tyler Layton, and Gavin Dahlke placed fifth in the district.  Ben placed second individually. The Outdoor Power CDE is a practical method of testing students’ skills to properly disassemble, repair and perform preventative maintenance on a small gas engine.  

The Vet Science Team of Sophie Sterken, Morgan Blosser, Natalia Alencastro, and Quinn Stickley placed fifth in the district. Sophie Sterken placed fourth individually. The Veterinary Science CDE consisted of a written test plus equipment, species, parasite and materials identification. They did a practicum of handling small and large animals, clinical procedures and restraining animals.

Olivia Beck, Mina Wesche, and Samantha Minchella competed as individuals in the Floriculture Contest. The Floriculture CDE includes plant Identification, other related identification, a written test, placing classes of flowers, and practicums like creating a boutonniere, a bud vase, etc.

 Eleven Pettisville students competed in the district Agronomy contest and placed third.  The top four scorers were Ella Richer, Sophie Sterken, Lily Wiemken, and Luke Van Den Berghe. Ella placed third in the district individually. The Agronomy CDE is designed to assess a student’s knowledge of field and forage crops. 

The General Livestock Team consisting of Ava Genter, Kelsey Bennett, Olivia Miller, Noelle Fox, placed 10th in the district. The General Livestock CDE is designed to teach students about quality production animals. They evaluated seven classes of sheep, swine, goats and beef cattle for prospect market animals or breeding replacement animals.

The Wildlife Team consisting of Creighton Aeschliman, Cayden Jacoby, Leah Beck, and Caden Bishop, placed sixth in the district. In the Wildlife CDE, students identified game birds, plants, sport fish, equipment and mammal specimens. They also took a written test. 

Teams and individuals that placed in the top four were recognized at the FFA banquet and will be recognized and the District 1 banquet in May.  None of the teams were available to compete at the state CDE level.

Photo Captions:
Ag Mech Skills team of (left to right) Ben Boger, Jayden Bleikamp and Justin Sierra pose with the pins they were awarded at the Pettisville FFA Banquet.

Floriculture CDE:  The Pettisville Floriculture team were able to bring home the arrangements they created from the District 1 contest after they were scored.  Left to right is Mina Wesche, Samatha Minchella and Olivia Beck. 

Vet Science CDE:  Seven Pettisville students competed at the Vet Science event on March 1.  Four County CC hosted the contest.  The top four scores count as a team score.  Left to right are Natalia Alencastro, Quinn Stickley, Caitie Girdham, Reagan Steele, Morgan Blosser, Sophie Sterken and Luke Van Den Berghe.

Submitted by Karter Zachrich, retiring Pettisville FFA Reporter, and Sophie Sterken Pettisville FFA Reporter

Pettisville National Agriscience Finalists

November 4, 2022

The National FFA Convention was held October 26-29 in Indianapolis, IN. This was the 95th convention. Two Pettisville FFA juniors were finalists in two different categories of the National FFA Agriscience Fair. To qualify, the participants conducted a research project, created a board and presentation, and placed first in the Ohio Agriscience Fair last May. Both students applied with a research paper to National FFA in June and were selected to be interviewed virtually in September. The results were announced, on stage, during the convention.

In the category of Plant Systems, Ella Richer placed 3rd in the nation, winning a medallion and a cash prize. The title of Richer’s project was The Effect of Growing Cereal Rye with Annual Ryegrass as a Cover Crop. She tested how cereal rye and annual ryegrass grew together, in hopes of finding a new grass-grass cover crop combination for farmers around our area to use. The basic conclusion was the two crops do not create more biomass when grown together, but there could be value in studying how these plants interact over a longer period of time or in a field situation. 

Richer is the daughter of Chris and Julia Richer. She said the most interesting part of the project was “learning about the importance of cover crops for soil health” and the most difficult part was “statistical analysis and making the graphs”. When asked about being on stage Ella replied, “there were so many people! But I liked meeting the other kids up there and learning about their projects.”

In the category of Food Products and Processing Systems, Delana Damman placed 4th in the nation with a gold rating. She is the daughter of Andy and Bree Damman. The project was titled The Comparison of Protein, Solids, and Fat in Cow and Goat Milk. Damman was testing to see if goat milk has some of the same properties as cow milk. She did this test to see if goat milk was a sufficient substitute for cow milk. The conclusion was that goat milk had a greater amount of fat, proteins, and solids than cow milk. 

Damman found the most interesting part of the project was “I learned about a spectrophotometer and that was pretty interesting.” A difficult part was when micro-pipetting because we had a faulty pipette. Also, comprehending the procedure of the spectrophotometer was challenging. Delana’s reaction to being on stage was “I got a lot more comfortable talking in front of people and being in front of large crowds.” 

For the Agriscience fair, each state can send in one applicant. There are currently over 850 FFA members in the United States, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. Both FFA members will graduate in 2024 and started the research projects in the fall of 2021 with the first fair presentation in February of 2022. The projects are mentored by Mrs. Donna Meller, science teacher, and Mr. John Poulson, ag teacher.

Pettisville FFA Competes in Soils and Dairy Cattle Career Development Events

Members of the Pettisville Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources class competed at the Fulton County Urban Soils contest held last month on the south side of Archbold. Team scores come from the top 3 members and Pettisville placed 5 th with scores from Creighton Aeschliman, Ava Genter and Olivia Beck.

The Urban Career Development Event (CDE) focuses on using soil sites for basements, septic systems, roads/driveways and lawns/gardens. Students determine the texture, slope, drainage and restrictions of the soil and select management practices based on the physical properties. Six team members advanced to the District 1 FFA CDE and placed 2nd with Genter placing 4th as an individual. The other two scores came from Cayden Jacoby and Courtney Wiemken.

Saturday, October 8th , Beck, Genter and Wiemken went to Lockburne OH for the state CDE. The Pettisville Urban Soils team placed 37 th . Courtney Wiemken was the top scorer on the team, she ranked 102nd.

Members of the Pettisville Animal and Plant Science class competed at the Fulton County Ag or Rural Soils contest held last month on the south side of Archbold. Team scores come from the top 3 members and Pettisville placed 4th with scores from Kelsey Bennett, Olivia Miller and Ben Boger. The Ag Career Development Event focuses on using soil sites for ag production fields, woodlands and pastures. Students determine the texture, slope, drainage, erosion potential and compaction of the soil and select management practices based on the physical properties. Five team members advanced to the District 1 FFA CDE and placed 5th with Miller placing 10th as an individual. The other two scores came from Bennett and Caden Bishop. The team earned the right to go to the state CDE but were not available.

On Thursday, Oct 13th seven members went to the Krill farm in the Edgerton School District to judge dairy cattle. Live classes of cows and heifers were placed with questions being answered. Paper classes included pedigree and sire selection classes. Results from Pettisville’s Dairy Cattle top four team members were Creighton Aeschliman, Olivia Miller, Leah Beck, and Caitie Girdham. The team placed 9th in the district. Creighton Aeschliman was the top scorer in 20th place.

Submitted by: Karter Zachrich, Pettisville FFA Reporter

The Pettisville FFA Alumni and Friends recently awarded $500 senior scholarships to two FFA members.

Baden Skates, son of Jerry and Pam Skates, will probably attend Ferris State University majoring in Network administration and cyber security. Baden will apply networking knowledge to the increasing automation and technology used in the agricultural industry. He participated in soil judging and parliamentary procedure, attended state and national conventions, and received his State FFA Degree.

Clara Damman, daughter of Andy and Bree Damman, will be attending Murray State University majoring in Agronomy. She plans to return to northwest Ohio and assist farmers in growing healthy crops and maintaining healthy soils and someday have her own agronomy company. While in school she served as Reporter and 2nd Vice President, participated in vet science, soils, parliamentary procedure, and agronomy contests, and attended state and national conventions. She will receive her state degree this May.

The National FFA Organization is a national youth organization of over 735,000 student members as part of 8,817 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. The FFA mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education. The National FFA Organization operates under a federal charter granted by the 81st United States Congress and it is an integral part of public instruction in agriculture. The U.S. Department of Education provides leadership and helps set the direction for FFA as a service to state and local agricultural education programs. For more, visit the National FFA Organization online at www.FFA.org.

Carson Bennett, Pettisville FFA 2022 graduate, was recently presented the school’s highest agricultural honor, the DEKALB Agricultural Accomplishment award, sponsored by the Bayer Crop Science Company.

Bennett, the son of Jon and Susan, received the award for excellence in academics, leadership and agricultural work experience.  Bennett’s significant experiences and accomplishments have included serving as an officer of the FFA for three years, raising layer hens and working at Grieser Transportation. He competed in various career development events including placing in the top four in multiple Ohio FFA District 1 contests, as shown by the medallions he is wearing.    He has been active in 4-H, FCA and church Quiz Team.  He was a finalist for the Pettisville Citizenship Award.

This year the DEKALB Agricultural Accomplishment Award celebrates its 75th anniversary.  Over these 75 years more than 320,000 high school seniors from across the country have received the award, which has become a symbol for excellence and the school’s highest agricultural honor. 

As a winner of the 2022 award, Bennett’s name will be recorded on a permanent plaque displayed at Pettisville High School.

Bayer Crop Science, a long-time supporter of agricultural education, FFA, 4-H and other farm youth organizations and initiatives is a leading global provider of technology-based solutions and agricultural products that improve farm productivity and food quality.

First Aid / Stop the Bleed Bags were assembled by FFA members in May 2022.

Items were researched, shopped for and ordered during ag classes. As items arrived, the committee chair of Karsen Pursel and Clara Damman assisted Lexie Poulson, alumni coordinator for the project, in tracking items. The members packed paper towels, a first aid kit, a diabetic bag, and several other items that might be needed by school staff and students. Each classroom will have a bag for the upcoming school year.

Donors included Rupp Seeds, Syngenta, Pettisville FFA and FFA Alumni, Pettisville Schools and the Pettisville School Foundation. Thanks to our FFA members for assembling bags and the generous donors who made this possible!

2022 State FFA Convention

March 29, 2022
FFA State AgriScience Fair Results

The top 4 students in each division and category were named yesterday for the FFA State AgriScience Fair. Congrats to Ella Richer and Delana Damman, who were both named: Ella in Plant Science and Delana in Food Systems. They will have virtual interviews in April to determine the final placings, which will be announced at the State FFA Convention on May 6th.

March 28, 2022
Pettisville Spring FFA Events

In the past month, the Pettisville FFA has competed in various District 1 and state CDE (Career Development Event) contests. CDEs are a motivating force that stimulates occupational interests in and personal development of high school students enrolled in school-based agricultural education programs.

The Farm and Agri-Business Management team placed 6th in the state and 1 st in District 1. This event is to test the knowledge and skills of the economic principles in farm business management. Students answer questions dealing with machinery management, farm business management, futures, commodities, and taxes. Pettisville’s top 4 scorers were: Harley Crossgrove, Carson Bennett, Clara Damman, and Karsen Pursel. Harley and Carson were 1st and 2nd individually in the District.

The Greenhand Quiz was taken by AFNR students and the team placed 36 th in the state and 4th in the District. Pettisville’s top 4 scorers were: Caden Bishop, Olivia Miller, Noelle Fox, and Kelsey Bennett. The Greenhand Quiz consists of questions dealing with Ohio FFA History, National FFA History, current state officers, and items dealing with Agricultural Education.

The Veterinary Science Event consisted of a written test plus equipment, species, parasite, and materials identification. They took a practicum of handling small and large animals, clinical procedures, and restraining animals. Sophie Sterken, Clara Damman, Luke Van Den Berghe, and Morgan Blosser competed in Veterinary Science and they placed 2nd. Sophie placed 3rd individually.

In the Equine event, students judge a halter class and hay class. They identify feeds and tack, then take a written test. Placing fourth individually was Karter Zachrich in District 1. The Agronomy CDE is designed to assess a student’s knowledge of field and forage crops. Students identify specimens of crop and weed plants and seeds. Also, they identified diseases and insects or their damage. A written test covers the use of soil test analysis, soil surveys, agronomic practices, and sprayer calibration problems. Pettisville placed second, with Luke Van Den Berghe placing fourth, and Clara Damman, sixth.

Pettisville Reporter, Karter Zachrich

March 8, 2022

Pettisville FFA had members compete in four CDE (Career Development Events) on Wednesday, March 2nd at Penta Career Center.

Caitlyn Girdham and Quinn Stickley competed in Animal Management.  The Animal Management event is to identify animal breeds, products, and equipment used in animal care. They took a practicum consisting of handling small animals and reptiles, cage care, and product use. They placed 9th.

Mina Wesche and Savannah Smith competed in Floriculture.  The Floriculture Event includes Plant Identification, Other Related Identification, a Written Test,  Placing Classes of flowers, and Practicums(creating a boutonniere, a bud vase, etc). They placed 10th.

Ben Boger, Tyler Layton, Justin Sierra competed in Outdoor Power.  The Outdoor Power Event is a practical method of testing students’ skills to properly disassemble, repair, and perform preventative maintenance skills on a small gas engine.  Some skills include: measuring ring end gap and engine RPM, being able to properly grind vales, sharpen and balance blades, and clean air filters.  They need to properly use an ignition tester, set armature, adjust idle needles, and check oil levels.  They also need to ID engine parts and complete a work order. The team placed 5th. Ben place 6th individually.

Sophie Sterken, Clara Damman, Luke Van Den Berghe, and Morgan Blosser competed in Veterinary Science.  The Veterinary Science Event consists of a written test, equipment, species, parasite, and materials identification. They took a practicum of handling small and large animals, clinical procedures, and restraining animals. The team placed 2nd. Sophie placed 3rd individually.

CDE are an extension of the local agricultural education classroom and serve as an authentic application of the curriculum in which students are instructed.  Through agricultural education and the FFA, amazing opportunities exist for FFA members.  With over 300 careers in agriculture, food, fiber, and natural resources, FFA members can look forward to unlimited success.  They are future chemists, business owners, politicians, community leaders, veterinarians, farmers, and teachers.  The skills obtained through FFA will serve a student for life.

Emma Salmi, Pettisville FFA Reporter

Congratulations to the 2022 FFA Week Coloring contest winners!

Kindergarten – Mrs. Aeschliman – Rowen Nussbaum, Harper Thompson, Bristol Rychener

Mrs. Hoffmire – Oliver Meck, Dallas Schrock, Weston Andres

1st Grade –  Miss King – Rowen Burkholder, Evritt Bird, Huxley Rufenacht

Mrs Leppelmeier – Ainsley Osten, Jocelyn Thompson, Quintyn Rice

2nd Grade - Mrs. Holsopple – Addie Nogosek, Hollis Schwartz, Gavin Mansfield

Mrs. Borton –  Evan Dunlap, Wyatt Mack, Daniel Hastings

3rd Grade – Mrs. Wixom – Ryleigh Brown, Landri Rufenacht, Molly Bratton 

Mrs. Yeager – Grace Ripke, Brooke Porter, Makayla Norris

January 10th, 2022

December Activities of the Pettisville FFA

December was another busy month for Pettisville FFA members. After placing 2 nd in the Fulton County Parliamentary Procedure Event, the team went to the Ohio FFA District 1 contest. A 12-minute meeting is conducted and a test taken. While the team did not place in the top 4, team members said they still got better. Karsen Pursel served as chairman and Luke Van Den Berghe was the secretary. Other members and alternates were Carson Bennett, Clara Damman, Leah Beck, Sam Haley, Emma Salmi and Nathan Rupp.

On December 6 th , five Pettisville FFA members volunteered at the Fulton County Christmas Cheer event. These members helped set up shelves and stock the store and worked in the area that was being readied to serve others on the shopping days that followed. The members enjoyed this activity and are glad they volunteered.

Fall Fruit Sales came to an end in late November. The items sold were delivered to the school December 8 th , and members started delivering their sales. A quick sale challenge for the FFA this year was to sell a minimum amount of ten sales with the overall goal set to be $600/member. Students reaching the quick sale challenge received cookies and students hitting $600 will get a pizza party. The three top salesman this year were Karsen Pursel, Sophie Sterken and Sam Haley. The chapter overall grossed more money than the past two or three years. Congratulations to these members and their success this year!

December 13 th was the monthly FFA meeting. The activities for this meeting were tasting some Fall Fruit Sale items, having a White Elephant Gift Exchange, and having the opportunity to watch Girl Name Tom on The Voice. The members really enjoyed all these activities and considered it a fun night.

Pettisville FFA members are pleased with how the year of events ended for the 2021 year, and look forward to what 2022 has to offer. At least seven members are working on completing advanced degrees or officer books. More to come on those results later in January and February.

PHOTO CAPTIONS:

Pville at CC: Savannah Smith works at the Fulton Christmas Cheer site organizing food products for putting in the shelves. All donations are counted and recorded before sent home with customers.

Pville at District Parli: The Parliamentary team at District Contest, held at NSCC. Back row (L to R): Karsen Pursel, Carson Bennett and Nate Rupp. Front Row (L to R): Leah Beck, Emma Salmi and Luke Van Den Berghe.

Pville Fruit Basket Making: (L to R): Jonah Harmon, Caleb Priddy and Alec Rychener assembled Fruit Baskets; an item sold during Fall Sales.

Pville Fall Fruit Sale Delivery: After the produce was delivered for Fall Sales, Harley Crossgrove, left, and Nate Rupp help organize the items.

Emma Salmi, Pettisville FFA Reporter

FFA Convention: Thank You Letters from PHS students

2021 FFA National Convention

November 4th, 2021

Pettisville FFA’s Safety Day 

On October 20th, the Pettisville FFA hosted a Safety Day; a day where 4th-12th graders learned about agricultural equipment safety. There were 17 stations, which varied from semitruck safety to learning basic facts about handling horses and other animals. 

During the day the FFA hosted the Ohio State University Grain C.A.R.T (Comprehensive Agricultural Rescue Trailer). This cart is used around the state to train fire and rescue departments to use grain tubes when someone is trapped in a grain bin. Students learned what it takes to help someone trapped in a grain bin, special techniques to use for safety, and they also learned how much weight it would take to pull someone out of a bin.  It takes over 600 pounds of pull to remove someone who is surrounded by grain.

Special thanks to all our community members who let the FFA borrow equipment to teach others about equipment safety!

Emma Salmi, Reporter

https://agsafety.osu.edu/grain-cart

October 18, 2021

Pettisville FFA members all participated in the Fulton County Fair, whether it be with an animal or a project during Ag class. The FFA participated in livestock judging, straw stacking, and working at the pork and milkshake stands. 2 students showed sheep, and 70 students took miscellaneous projects, such as cutting boards, stools, informational ag-related fliers, and soil boards. Out of 70 students, 50 received an A. 

Cayden Jacoby placed first and his ewe received Grand Champion for the Breeding Sheep Show. He received a trophy. Karter Zachrich also participated in the breeding sheep contest and showed a market lamb.  His lamb was named Grand Champion Market Lamb and he was named Outstanding Market Sheep Exhibitor and Senior Reserve Sheep Skillathon participant.  Karter also took part in the Livestock Judging Contest. Carson Bennett participated in the straw stacking contest and his team placed first.

 When working at the porkstand Friday night, members worked as cashiers, runners, and some grilled as well.  Members of the FFA Alumni and Friends group provided half of the workers needed. During our shift in the milkshake stand Sunday afternoon, workers either scooped the ice cream and poured the milk into the cups, or mixed the milkshake until it reached the right consistency.

On September 15th, the junior Agronomy class showed 3rd and 4th graders sheep, bunnies and chickens at the Fulton County Grade Ag Fest. The members told the students general facts about each animal, and were also given the choice to check the animal’s heartbeat.

On September 17th, the senior FFA members served a meal at the Rupp Seeds Genetic Vendor Day. They served Hawaiian sausage, hamburgers, potato salad, a variety of chips, and monster and chocolate chip cookies. Special thanks to Alumni Vice President Jeremy Crouch for running the grill!

Three FFA members helped out at Kenn-Feld Day on September 25th. These members set up a pedal tractor course for the children to complete, as well as teaching the students about small equipment and how to be safe while using the machines. The members enjoyed the activity.

 Monday, September 27th, 11 FFA members competed in the District 1 Soil Judging Contests.  Both teams placed 2nd out of this 7-County wide event. Three scores count for a team score. In the Urban Soils contest, which is soil used for development, Carson Bennett placed 2nd, Kelsey Bennett placed 3rd, and Olivia Miller placed 8th. 

In the Rural Soils Contest, which is soil used mostly for crop production, Mina Wesche was 7th, Sophie Sterken was 8th, and Ella Richer was 12th. Both teams qualified for state.   

On October 9th, 6 members traveled to State Soils in Delaware County. The Urban Soil team of Carson Bennett, Kelsey Bennett, and Olivia Miller placed 20th in the State. The Rural Soils team of Mina Wesche, Ella Richer and Kaleb Wyse placed 40th as a team. Congratulations to these members!

On October 11th, the FFA Chapter met for their monthly meeting. Once the meeting ended, the Healthy Lifestyles Committee held the annual Salsa Fest. If students wanted, they could bring in their favorite salsa and a vote was taken for who had the best. This year, 5 salsas were entered. First place was Tyler Layton, second was Jessie Schulze’s salsa, entered by Mr. Poulson, Pettisville’s FFA teacher and advisor. 

The chapter is currently preparing for more October and November activities, including trapshoot, fall sales, an equipment safety day and National Convention.

Emma Salmi, Reporter

Monday, September 27, 2021

11 Pettisville FFA members competed in the District 1 Soils Contest.  Both of our teams placed 2nd out this 7 county wide event.

Three scores count for a team score.  In the Urban Soils Contest, soils used for development, Carson Bennett placed 2nd, Kelsey Bennett place 3rd and Olivia Miller placed 8th.  In the Rural Soils Contest, soils used for crop production, Mina Wesche was 7th, Sophie Sterken was 8th and Ella Richer was 12th.  Both teams qualified for state. Great work, Blackbirds!

August 30, 2021

Pettisville FFA Alumni Spotlight: Jessica McWatters

It was an awesome trip. I actually did quite a bit of ag related things down there. We planted coconut trees (the soil is very clayey) and we harvested guavas. The company we were working with just bought 830 acres and they had a lot of heifers, bulls, pigs, donkeys, and horses left on the property. It's neat because almost all of the trees down there are fruit trees so I got to see coconut, avocado, Jamaican apple, mango, guava, bananas, almond, and a couple others I can not remember the name of. I really enjoyed it and the people are so cool. When you take the time to get to know them, they really open up and they are so very happy. 10 out of 10, I highly recommend this experience. https://www.acexperience.org/

JULY 24, 2021

Pettisville FFA's Summer Activities

On June 24th through the 27th, the community of Pettisville and the surrounding townships came together for its annual weekend of fun-filled activities called Pettisville Friendship Days. Before the days started four FFA members helped make 16 trivets to protect the plastic table from the roasters.

During the activities which included bouncy houses, 5K races, archery practice, and more, several of the FFA members helped keep the park clean by maintaining the trash cans, picking up trash and recycling.  

On Saturday, FFA members and FFA alumni members helped with the Pedal Pull tournament.  This activity was co-sponsored by these two organizations and had ME Miller Tire Inc. as a major sponsor for the PARC. Winners were 5 and under: Bristyl Rychener and Joshua Mickelson; 6-7 year olds: Addie Nogosek and Finnlee Bolton; 8-9 year olds: Kirstyn Rychener and Ames Genter; 10-11 year olds: Elana Lugbill and Gradyn Rychener.  There were 56 pullers in the Pedal Pull contest.

The FFA also sponsored and ran the Corn Hole tournament. Eight adult and four youth teams were involved.  The adult winners won half the entry money and t-shirts while the youth won t-shirts.  Todd Rychener and Darren Clifton were the adult winners and Josh Basselman and Dane Waidelich won the youth division.   It was announced that Friendship Days will be held every other year, but Pettisville will hold an annual 5K race.

July 2nd, Das Essen Haus hosted a fundraiser for Ellie Wixom, a 2021 Pettisville graduate, who recently got in a car accident. Four FFA members helped clean tables and sell tickets for the Chinese Raffle.  The FFA also donated BBQ sauce for the raffle.   Happily, there was a good turnout.

On July 15th, nine FFA officers met at Rufenacht Chalet to work on teamwork, being a prepared officer, conducting meetings and bonding.  This annual event helps the new officers set goals and work on committees.

Emma Salmi, Pettisville FFA Reporter

MAY 2021

The Pettisville FFA Alumni and Friends recently awarded former Pettisville FFA members with college scholarships.

Elizabeth Beck, daughter of Randy and Joy Beck, is studying Equine and Business at Asbury University. She plans to train horses. Elizabeth was chapter reporter and active in the Equine contest and the Diversified Livestock Proficiency area.    She has been involved in rodeos and teaching youngsters how to ride.  Elizabeth attended state and national conventions and earned her American FFA Degree last fall.

Ava Hoylman, daughter of Brent and Vicki, is studying Animal Science, Industry Option, at the University of Findlay.  As part of her studies she is doing Western Equestrian Studies and Intercultural Studies.  She served as an officer and competed in several competitions, including Public Speaking.  She is part of the Western Horse Show Association and Sheep Show team.  She earned her State FFA Degree.

Gretchen Lee, daughter of Chris and Char Lee, is studying Animal Science at Dordt University. She plans to attend veterinary school and would like to specialize in exotic and specialty livestock. Gretchen served as an Ohio FFA State Officer, was active in research and attended several conventions and Washington Leadership Conference. She co-chaired a Meals of Hope program for the FFA.  She earned her American FFA Degree last fall.

Jessica McWatters, daughter of Tom and Angie, is studying Biology Education with a minor in Environmental Science at Huntington University. Jessica served as chapter secretary and president.  She was named Ohio Star in Agriscience last spring and a National Finalist in Ag Research, Animal Systems, last fall.  Jessica attended state and national conventions, Washington Leadership Conference and earned her State FFA Degree.

Matt Rupp, son of Scott and Laura, is studying Animal Science at the University of Findlay. He plans become a large animal veterinarian.  Matt served as an officer and was active in many contests, including Veterinarian Science. He is in the pre-vet club and Findlay Collegiate FFA and the Cattle Show Team.  Matt attended state and national conventions, Washington Leadership Conference and earned his State FFA Degree.

Brandi Schnitkey, daughter of Chad and Sheri, is studying Animal Science at Kansas State University. She plans to attend graduate school specializing in equine studies and nutrition. Brandi served the chapter as vice president and was active in setting up a large safety day.   Brandi has competed in rodeos, attended state and national conventions and earned her American FFA Degree last fall.

Jordan Skates, daughter of Jerry and Pam, is studying Wildlife and Fisheries Management at West Virginia University. She plans to get certified in Wildlife Education and work for the Ohio Department of Natural Resources or US Fish and Game. Jordan served as chapter secretary and president and was active in developing the school pond. Jordan attended state and national conventions, Washington Leadership Conference and earned her State FFA Degree.

Madeleine Wixom, daughter of Leo and Jadea, is studying Wildlife and Fisheries Management at Hocking College and will attend West Virginia University in the fall. She plans to be a wildlife field biologist and operate her own fish farm. Madeleine was active in the Wildlife competition and was a National FFA Finalist in Wildlife Management last fall.  She attended state and national conventions, Washington Leadership Conference and earned her American FFA Degree last fall.

Kayla Wyse, daughter of Gene and Judy, is studying Agronomy at Wilmington College. She plans to become a research agronomist and publish her research on Asiatic Garden Beetle grubs. Kayla served as chapter president and was active in science fairs presenting her research at four National FFA Agriscience fairs. Kayla attended state and national conventions, Washington Leadership Conference, earned her State FFA Degree. 

The Alumni is proud to be able to support these former Pettisville students in their pursuit of higher education in the agriculture industry.

April 19, 2021

On April 15th, the Pettisville FFA Chapter came together to hold the 71st annual FFA banquet to honor students for their achievements this past year. This year, there were 30 members who received the Greenhand Degree. The Greenhand Degree is what the FFA gives to students who have completed their first year as a member of the FFA. They were given a pin, as well as a certificate. Due to the large number of recipients, there were two Star Greenhands: Sophie Sterken and Mina Wesche. Both Sophie and Mina were involved in many CDE’s (Career Development Events), in addition to both attending other events.

Eleven members were awarded the Chapter FFA Degree. In order to receive this degree you must invest $150 or 45 hours of time in an SAE or Supervised Agriculture Education, participate in three chapter functions, and lead a discussion about an agricultural topic. This year’s Star Chapter Degree winner was Luke Van Den Berghe. He participated in the Agronomy, Farm Business Management, Wildlife and Soil CDEs, paid his dues on time, and participated in the FFA apparel day. 

Career Development pins were handed out to members who meet the requirements for either being top two or a gold rating in the county or top four in the district. 

• Kearsten Zuver placed 2nd in the county, and 7th in the district Extemporaneous Speaking competition.

• Rylee Beltz placed 1st at county and 2nd in district for the Beginning Prepared Speaking.

• Sophie Sterken placed 3rd in the county, as well as receiving a gold rating, in the Creed Speaking competition.

• The Ag Technology and Mechanics test was taken and the team was 2nd in the District, with Carson Bennett, 2nd place, and Kearsten Zuver, 4th place as individuals.

• The Greenhand Quiz was taken by freshman Greenhands. They placed 3rd in the district as a team, and Sophie Sterken received 2nd in the district individually.

• In the Urban Soils contest, the team of Carson Bennett, Colton Wood, and Mina Wesche placed 2nd, and earned a county plaque. The team of Carson Bennett, Mina Wesche, Eli Mora and Lauren Shumaker placed 3rd in the district, and Carson Bennett placed 3rd as an individual.

• The Rural Soils team of Luke Van Den Berghe, Grace Schnitkey, Leah Beck and Jaret Beck placed 4th, and Luke placed 3rd in the district, as an individual.

• The Wildlife team of Carson Bennett, Leah Beck, Luke Van Den Berghe, and Andrew Hulbert placed 4th in the District competition. 

• The Farm Business Management team of Carson Bennett, Luke Van Den Berghe, Kearsten Zuver, and Nathaniel Keim placed 3rd in the district. Carson placed 4th individually.

• The Agronomy team of Clara Damman, Luke Van Den Berghe, Clark Bartoe, and Karsen Pursel placed 2nd in the district competition and 10th in Ohio.

• The Equine Management team of Kearsten Zuver, Olivia Rossman, Karter Zachrich, and Delana Damman placed 3rd in the district.

A CDE challenge was held within the chapter and Kearsten Zuver, Ben Morris, Carson Bennett, Nathan Rupp, Jonah Harmon, Jaret Beck, Sophie Sterken, and Kaleb Wyse were all awarded prizes as the top scorers on Kahoot.

Awards were given to the Top 4 members in Fall Sales- Karsen Pursel, Ellie Wixom, Sophie Sterken and Grace Schnitkey, first place. The Pest Hunt winner was Luke Van Den Berghe, followed by Blake Eyer and Baden Skates.

The Chapter Officer Awards were recognized and were given certificates at the banquet. Kearsten Zuver competed in the Secretary’s Book contest and received a State gold rating, and also placed 1st in the district. Karsen Pursel competed in the Treasurer’s Book contest, and received a State gold rating, and placed 1st in the district. The FFA Scrapbook was completed by Clara Damman, and she received a State gold rating and also 1st place in the district.

The Recordkeeping award went to Andrew Hulbert.  Also earning mention for recordkeeping were Wesley Borton, Delana Damman, Sam Haley, Luke Van Den Berghe, Lily Wiemken, and Ellie Wixom. The top Scholar award was given to Carson Bennett for having the top GPA over all classes for junior or senior FFA members.

Each grade has a Top Point Achiever.  They received a TSC gift card.  The freshman was Karter Zachrich, the sophomore was Luke Van Den Berghe, the junior was Carson Bennett and the senior was Kearsten Zuver.

The Junior Achievement award was given to Carson Bennett. He participated in parliamentary procedure, county and state soils, wildlife and farm business management. He helped out at animal day and attended every FFA meeting. The Senior Award winner was Grace Schnitkey. She participated in job interview, and parliamentary procedure. Her SAE is her strongest point.  She does horse training, a dog breeding project, worked at Pettisville Meats and is currently working at Swanton Welding, along with many other projects at home.

Thank you to all of our sponsors for the various awards: Jan Weber, Nofziger Trucking, Beck Show Lambs, Burkholder Farms, Rufenacht Farms and the Pettisville FFA Alumni.

The retiring Sweetheart, Kearsten Zuver, was given 6 roses, and the new Sweetheart, Clara Damman, was given her tiara from Kearsten Zuver, as well as a trophy and a rose. Clara will help with public relations for the chapter.

This year’s newly elected officers were sworn into office by the current officers. They are Karsen Pursel, President; Nathan Rupp, Student Advisor; Carson Bennett, Vice President; Luke Van Den Berghe, Secretary; Delana Damman, Treasurer; Emma Salmi, Reporter; and Eli Mora, Sentinel. We would also like to recognize our assistants, Clara Damman, Leah Beck, Clark Bartoe, Olivia Rossman, and Angela Rosillo.

The banquet was set up by FFA members at the Pettisville Missionary Church, as well as Miss Paige Schaffter, student teacher, and Mr. John Poulson, advisor. The Pettisville FFA Chapter looks forward to the next year of opportunities.

APRIL 2021

The Ag Mechanics Skills Team placed 6th in our district with Carson Bennett, Andrew Hulbert and Blake Eyer. Carson was the 6th place individual. 
The Vet Science Team led by Kearsten Zuver, 5th place, and Sophie Sterken, 6th place, placed 2nd in the district and 9th in the state. Clara Damman and Lauren Shumaker rounded out the team. 
The Outdoor Power Team placed 7th in the district with team members Andrew Hulbert, Blake Eyer and Luke VanDenBerghe.

MARCH 2021

Officers have been working hard creating the annual Reporter's Scrapbook, Treasurer's Book, and Secretary's Book. Recently, Ohio FFA announced the following:

In the Greenhand Quiz, Pettisville placed 3rd in District 1 and 21st in the state. Our top 4 quizzers were Sophie Sterken, 2nd in District 1, Lauren Shumaker, Lily Wiemken and Mina Wesche.  Over 2200 individuals quizzed in the Career Development Event.

In the Farm Business Management Test, Pettisville placed 3ed in District 1 and 17th in the state.  Our top 4 were Carson Bennett - 4th in the district plus Luke Van Den Berghe, Nate Keim and Kearsten Zuver.  Over 700 individuals took this test.

The State FFA Degree recipients were announced.  These Pettisville students will receive their Degree in late April:Andrew Hulbert, Baden Skates, Grace Schnitkey and Kearsten Zuver.

Kayla Wyse was announced the Ohio representative for the American Star in Agriscience. 

Congratulations to these FFA members.

Mr. John Poulson, FFA Advisor
Agri-Science Teacher

The Pettisville FFA holds a number of events throughout the year, including: Annual Fall Sales, Ag Safety Day, FFA Week, Pancake Breakfast, SAE Fair and various projects in the community. They also help with the FFA Alumni Pumpkin Festival and Garden Tractor Pulls at Pettisville Friendship Days.

The Pettisville Community Recycling Center is manned by the Pettisville FFA Members year-round, with special collection dates on the 2nd Saturday morning of each month from 8:30-11:00 a.m. Thank you to the FFA for providing our community with a clean, organized space to recycle.

2022-2023 Officers

President: Jonah Harmon

Vice President: Luke Van Den Berghe

Secretary: Mina Wesche

Treasurer: Sam Haley

Reporter: Karter Zachrich

Sentinel: Leah Beck

Student Advisor: Lily Wiemken

Assistant Officers: Jayden Bleikamp, Ben Boger

Sweetheart: Leah Beck