YOUTH EXPO: Corsicana FFA sweeps ag mechanics

By Deanna Brown

March 26, 2009 12:31 am

— After a show season full of success, winning scholarships, welders, tools and more, Corsicana FFA ag mechanics department swept the categories at the Navarro County Youth Exposition.
Grand champion winners were Kyle Ward and Matthew Porter of Corsicana FFA with their fully-outfitted welding trailer.
“I’m happy that our trailer did so well,” Kyle said. “The experience and skills I learned just can’t be duplicated.”
Reserve champion went to Alan Vitters, also of Corsicana FFA, for his wildlife observatory (or deer stand). The rolling wildlife stand features a television, built-in bed, and observation deck on top.
“It feels good to be honored at the county show,” said the ever-reticent Alan.
The award for showmanship went to Mildred 4-H, whose eight members stood for six hours during judging, never once leaving their project — a flat-bed trailer — despite cold temperatures and no food.
Dr. Kyle McGregor of Tarleton State University served as judge for the event, and spent a great amount of time with each student or group, asking questions, giving pointers, and learning all about each project.
“The two most important things in ag mechanics are that you learn something, and that you have fun,” McGregor said. “I am exceptionally pleased with your performance today.”
As McGregor was examining the Mildred 4-H trailer, he said, “You guys are more important than that trailer. I want to talk to you.”
The kids, who ranged in age from 10 to 16, spoke to the judge through chattering teeth. All were dressed alike, and explained in detail to McGregor the ins and outs of making the trailer.
In division one, the all-girl team from Kerens FFA took first place for their pink three-point trailer hitch. Dressed alike in pink team shirts, Courtney Wilcox, Reese Medlin, Whitney Spain, Cristina Loscuito and Taylor Mitchell explained to the judge how the hitch could be installed on the back of a tractor, and used as a bumper pull, gooseneck, or hay spear.
“Our ag teacher Mr. Atkeisson is going to use it,” Courtney said.
The girls even had a photo book covered in pink John Deere fabric, which told the story of their project construction.
“They get more one-on-one instruction at the county show from judges than they do at the major shows,” said Brian Phillips, ag mechanics chairman. “This is the first year we’ve had division three with tractors, and the guys from Kerens are excited. They have usually just exhibited, and this year they got to compete.
“We also have more 4-H projects this year, which means more younger kids are participating, from Dawson, Mildred and Rice. They are judged not only on workmanship and structural design and balance, but how well they show the projects to the judge.”
Kerens FFA groups rebuilt a 1953 John Deere G as well as a 1948 Farmall Super A.
Also honored in their divisions from Corsicana FFA were Casey Acker and Logan Stevens for their utility trailer, Kevin Bichell for his blacksmith shop, and Charles Ferguson for his barbecue pit.
“I am very happy for these kids,” said Mark Vitters, Corsicana FFA ag mechanics teacher. “I’m glad to see them end their showing year on a positive note.”
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