Young Farmers of Virginia

Hello fellow Young Farmers! I hope everyone had a safe and productive fall and a good Thanksgiving holiday. Even though the economy has been down lately, we still have a lot to be thankful for in this country.
December 9-12 is the National YF Institute in Mobile, Alabama. State Vice President Lucky Graves and I will be the Virginia delegates. December 18 is the deadline for submitting applications for the Agribusiness, Diversification and Outstanding Young Farmer awards. These awards have cash prizes and I encourage all eligible members to apply.
The new year is coming up fast and so is the 60th annual State convention. It will be January 29-31 in Colonial Heights/Petersburg. The area is rich in Civil War history. We will be touring Pamplin Historical Park and getting a look at agriculture in that period and how it was affected by the war. We also tour the Agriculture Department at VSU. I invite everyone to the convention to catch up with old friends, maybe make new friendships, take part in tours and contests, enjoy some good food and celebrate our 60th anniversary!
An important part of the convention is electing new officers. We need people to run for office. Being an officer is a rewarding experience. Don’t think you can’t do it. I didn’t set out to be President, just signed on to help the organization and now I’m President. It seems like yesterday I was starting out as a Director. It has been an honor serving on the executive committee and I want to see the Young Farmers of Virginia continue to be successful. We must have more officer candidates in order to carry on our proud heritage!

Best Wishes and Thank You to Mr. Dwight Newman for his many years of dedicated service to the Young Farmers of Virginia serving as Executive Treasurer!

To deliver programs in agricultural education for out-of-school adults in order to assist them to become established, or to progress in farming or other related agriculture occupations.

Young Farmer members receive many benefits from their membership in local, area, state and national organizations. Not only are educational programs offered, but also social/recreational activities as well as opportunities for community service.