On December 17, 2024, 28 West Perry FFA members attended the Cumberland, Dauphin, and Perry Area Winter Career Development Events (CDEs) at the Doubling Gap Church Camp in Newville. This event consists of 7 competitions, including FFA Knowledge, Environmental and Natural Resources, Nursery and Landscaping, Milk Quality and Products, Small Gas Engines, Employment Skills, and a Sampler event allowing members to try their hand in several competitions. West Perry had members who competed in 6 of the 7 events.
The first contest members competed in was FFA Knowledge, specifically for freshman members. During the contest, members are quizzed on their knowledge of FFA history and current national and PA state officers. West Perry’s team, consisting of Kylie Morrison, Gavin Fuller, and Carson Krone, placed second overall.
In Environmental and Natural Resources, competitors were tasked with identifying trees, fish, insects, and other organisms, as well as being tested on natural resource regulations and guidelines. West Perry had four members compete: Grady Clouse, Izzy Casner, Kayden Dobbs, and Dylan Grove.
In Small Gas Engines, competing members were tested on tool identification and shop safety. Members also had to identify and fix different issues with their engine so that it worked properly. The West Perry FFA team consisted of Olivia Neff and Dale Pfeil, who placed 4th.
The next event at Winter CDEs was Employment Skills. For this contest, students must prepare a resume, cover letter, and completed job application in advance. Students also complete a networking activity, a mock interview, and a follow-up thank you letter. Lila Kretzing placed 4th, and Leah Clouse placed 8th. Also competing were Autumn Albright, Sayde Weidenhof, Sadie Innerst, Briley Comp, and Jensyn Dillman.
The Sampler CDE allowed members to experience a section of each CDE being offered. They were required to complete a propagation practicum, take a written test, and complete tools, pest, and plant identification. West Perry had three members compete: Rosalyn Stokes, Mya Sanno, and Cyera Ward.
The Last event West Perry had members compete in was Milk Quality and Products. Members must take a written exam about milk marketing and the dairy industry during this contest. Then, they are tasked with identifying cheese, milk, off-flavors in milk, and other dairy product samples. Draven Stout placed 10th overall. Also competing were Ava Wagner, Addison Taylor, Richard Holstine, Lucian Kretzing, Madison Mashtare, Melivin Innerst, Dominic Innerst, and Kaiden Palm.
Congratulations to all Participants!
Leah Clouse
West Perry FFA Reporter
Photo Caption: Members that Attended the Winter CDEs on December 17.