On December 3, 2018, nearly 600 FFA members from across South Dakota met in Pierre for the State FFA Leadership Development Events (LDEs). Students qualified through district competitions, advancing the top two teams and top three individuals from each of the seven FFA districts. FFA members and chapters were recognized for their success in 11 leadership areas at the awards luncheon. The banquet was sponsored by SD Midwest Dairy Association and SD FFA Star Partners: ADM Tulare, Agtegra, BankWest, CHS Foundation, LG Seeds, Monsanto and Twin City Region Northland Ford Dealers. State-winning (first place) teams and individuals will now advance to the National FFA Career Development Events in 10 of the 11 events in Indianapolis next fall.
Despite the weather conditions, the Viborg-Hurley FFA Chapter brought 6 members to compete in 3 areas of competition. Advisor Mr. Nathan Knutson led the group and Jason and Alicia Knutson went along to judge areas of competition.
Cassidy Sayler competed in and placed 1st in the Ag Broadcasting/Journalism competition, where students have 30 minutes to prepare a five-minute agricultural radio newscast and then "air" it. This event was sponsored by Ludens Implement.
Shania Knutson competed in and placed 7th in the Employment Interview Skills competition, where it challenges FFA members to complete a job application, write a letter of application and resume, participate in an actual interview and compose a follow-up letter. The sponsor was the South Dakota Department of Agriculture.
A team of Ethan Engen, Colton Roth, Cole Overgard, and Kolby Lee competed in the Agricultural Sales competition, where team members work together to develop a strategy for selling pre-determined products to specific customer scenarios. Participants also practice their individual sales skills by selling an agricultural product to a customer. CHS Brandon sponsors this event.
