At the end of October, students in the Garden Spot FFA chapter at Lampeter-Strasburg High School (LSHS) traveled to Indianapolis to participate in the 96th annual National FFA Convention. Over three days, club members competed against other FFA chapters from across the state in contests designed to test their knowledge of various agricultural and environmental topics.

Garden Spot FFA president and LSHS senior Sarah Firestone competed in the extemporaneous public speaking competition. Sarah earned silver in the contest, overall placing 10th in the nation.

In the extemporaneous public speaking competition, students chose one of three randomly selected topics related to environmental issues, animal science or the agriculture industry. Once speakers decided on a topic, they had 30 minutes to research the issue and prepare a presentation for a panel of judges. During the first round of the competition, Sarah's presentation explored how agriculture producers might take advantage of the growing demand for locally sourced food. "As a resident of Strasburg, this topic really hit home for me," said Sarah. "I was able to share the experience of having local food stands and markets on a national level and connect to people who don't have the same experience."

Sarah won first place in the extemporaneous public speaking competition during the 95th annual FFA State Convention in June 2024. Garden Spot FFA alumna Jessica Herr coached Sarah as she prepared for the national convention. Sarah said she became increasingly comfortable speaking and more passionate about the topics as she progressed through the county and regional competitions.

The Garden Spot FFA chapter's Agricultural Mechanics and Technology Systems team, comprising Jack Ross, Owen Williams, Landon Giberson and Rex Giberson, earned a bronze placement at the national convention. Team members worked together to complete a written agriculture-related math exam and an activity that involved designing a mold in addition to mixing and pouring concrete. Team members also completed a series of practicums to test their knowledge of topics such as machinery and equipment, electricity, structures and natural resources. Individually, Rex earned a silver placement, and Owen, Jack and Landon earned bronze placements.

"There wasn't anything that caught us off guard," said Jack, who serves as the Garden Spot FFA chapter's treasurer. "Before the competition, we would basically focus on specific areas during our weekly practices." Garden Spot FFA alumni Bryce Johnson and Mark Mellinger also coached the students as they practiced, and Johnson attended the convention with the team.

The Agricultural Mechanics and Technology Systems team received guidance from multiple local businesses as the students prepared for the national convention. Team members participated in hands-on activities offered by businesses such as Weaver Turf Power and Bearing & Drive Systems. Additionally, the students occasionally visited Garden Spot FFA adviser Katie Ranck's family farm to learn about skid loaders, tractors, combines and other types of agricultural equipment.

"Seeing different opportunities that are available through FFA inspired me to look ahead to what I can do in the future," Landon said.

Rex, who joined the Garden Spot FFA chapter last year, said the national convention was a unique experience that allowed the team to connect with students from across the country. "Being a new member, it was neat to see how many people could be united out there under one organization," Rex added.