80th Texas FFA Convention Set For July 15-18 at Texas Tech

More than 10,000 students from across the state are set to bask in South Plains sunshine from July 15-18 as they attend the 80th annual Texas FFA Convention in Lubbock. Presentations, performances and workshops highlight this year's session, which will take place at several Texas Tech University facilities including United Spirit Arena. Among the features for this year's program, titled "Ignite the Flame," are rodeo performances, public speaking events, several awards ceremonies. The Texas FFA Association is one of the nation's largest FFA state associations with more than 63,000 active members. Keynote Speakers. Walter Kinzie will serve July 16 as the first general session's keynote speaker, while Morgan Parker, National FFA central region vice president, will act as the keynote speaker for the second general session. Southwestern Expo Scholarships, Farm Credit Bank of Texas Scholarships and Star of Texas Scholarships will also be awarded during the two programs. Meanwhile, during the third general session, known as "Stars Night," the remarks will be provided by National FFA Advisor Larry Case, and Chad Hymas will present the keynote address. On July 17, the fourth general session will feature Dick Wallrath Scholarships, Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Scholarships, a state president election and a championship review. Convention Dance. Later the day, the fifth general session will spotlight San Antonio Scholarships, past state officer reunion recognition, a business session and a presidential run-off. The sixth general session features a talent competition, rodeo recognition, a Texas FFA chorus concert and the convention dance. The program ends July 18 during the seventh general session with the John Justin Awards, convention chronicle recognition and new officer installation. According to program officials, student registration is $20, parking $5, concert tickets are $5 and $10, and the convention dance is $5. FFA Association officials reported that more than 1,500 young men and women are honored each year for their FFA projects and activities, and nearly $2 million in scholarships are awarded each year. For more information about the Texas FFA Association and Convention, click http://www.texasffa.org/