From September 30 to October 2, the 45th Annual Linganore New Market Community Show was held. It showcased the talents of students in agricultural production and business. The Community Show was also sponsored by the Maryland Agricultural Fair Board, the Linganore and New Market Granges, the Linganore FFA, and the 4-H clubs in the area.

During the evening of October 1, the selection of the 2018 FFA Youth Ambassadors took place. Of the 10 eligible members, two were selected as FFA Youth ambassadors: Austin Welty and Kelsey Wolfe. Devin Wynne was the runner-up.

“We were very fortunate to have 10 extremely qualified candidates this year.  Our judges thought it would be beneficial to select two to sere our community, school and chapter,” said Pat Beachy, FFA Chapter Adviser.

After the selection process, Welty said,  “Some of my responsibilities are making sure I’m at all the community shows and FFA events to help out as much as I can with the Linganore FFA.”

Both Youth Ambassadors are prepared to use their passion for agriculture and business to support the FFA.

Ambassador Kelsey Wolfe spoke of her own plans for her agricultural career.“I’ve always wanted to participate in dairy judging. I like to step out of my comfort zone and do something I wouldn’t normally do.”

As Ambassadors of the FFA, Welty and Wolfe take it upon themselves to spark an interest in agriculture among elementary school students and encourage them to join the FFA.

“One thing I think we could do to get more young children  involved in agriculture is try to relate with them,” said Welty. “Ask them three simple questions about what their interests are and compare them with some different field in agriculture.”

FFA President Nicole Muller said, “Our ambassadors are great candidates, and both are very passionate about agriculture.  I believe they will serve LHS FFA very well this year.”

The FFA is one of the largest chapters in both Frederick County and the state of Maryland. They meet during club days and have officer meetings after school. The FFA encourages all members to participate in Career Activities and Career Development Events.

The 10 students who applied to be Ambassador went through an interview process in advance of the event.  Several of them already hold leadership positions.  The students try for this position because it helps them become stronger leaders and public speakers.  This year’s applicants included: Abby Kurupas, Austin Welty, Alexa Bonnei, Devin Wynne, Gracie Sier, Kelsey Wolfe, Sarah Curley, Jackey Hinkson, Taylor Carbaugh, and Peyton Johnson.