In late July, the Elmwood FFA members took on the responsibility of completing a cooperative community
service project with the Portage Center Arbor No. 524 of Gleaner Life Insurance group. Financing for the
materials was provided by the Gleaners while the chapter provided the labor for construction.
The results of the projects included the construction of 15 benches. Eight of these benches were donated
to a museum in Wood County, while six were given to the Wood County Fair.
One special bench was made in memory of former FFA member Amber Reynolds and also provided to the fair.

With the conclusion of the Wood County Fair, the chapter’s members attended the Pemberville Free Fair on
Aug. 13, where they conducted a kiddie pedal pull. Approximately 87 youngsters participated in this
event. The pedal pull consisted of three weight classes.
Each competitor in the pulls received a participant ribbon and an Elmwood FFA pencil. Additionally, the
top three contestants received a trophy.
Presently two chapter teams are preparing for competition at the Eastern States Exposition in
Massachusetts. Representing not only the chapter, but the state of Ohio will be the chapter’s
Parliamentary Procedure and Ag. Mechanics teams.
In the Parliamentary Procedure event the six team members will complete a written test, demonstrate a ten
minute business session of five required items, and orally answer questions at the completion of the
demonstration. Team members include Kyle Benschoter, Emily Curtis, Sarah Laborie, Jessica McKenzie, Josh
Schnipke and Kim Schnipke.
In the Ag. Mechanics competition the contestants will solve problems in the areas of small engines,
building construction, and fluid power. The team will consisting of Tom Elgin, Andrew Lewellan, Ryan
Rose, and Lewis Stearns.
Members are also planning on attending the agronomy training day on Sept. 8.
This activity will provide education to FFA members in the areas of corn and soybean production.