Newton FFA competes in summer contests

The Newton FFA concluded a successful summer by finishing in the top 10 in three career development events.

In the state Agronomy CDE, activities included demonstration of skills and problem solvingin agronomy, including crop, weed, insect and seed identification; crop and seed judging and evaluation; and grain grading. Members Josie Jacobs, Kaylee Lange, and Jarret Horn competed in the contest, placing sixth and receiving a gold ranking. Horn was the eighth place individual.

In the state Floriculture CDE, team members Katie Hinshaw, Maria Fox and Ellie Rethmeier received a gold ranking and placed fourth. Katie Hinshaw was the champion individual in the contest. The event consisted of a general knowledge exam, problem solving and decision-making, plant identification, floral design, pesticide use and application, floral production and a team activity.

The state Horse Judging CDE was held at the Iowa Equestrian Center in Cedar Rapids. The Newton team included members Josie Jacobs, Mallory Umbarger, Jacob Arrowood and Jarret Horn, and they finished in eighth place and received a gold ranking. Students evaluated halter and performance classes and gave oral reasons to explain their placings. A written examination was also included along with a team problemsolving competition.