Local student attends Farm Bureau Youth Leadership Conference

SAN ANGELO - Attending the Texas Farm Bureau’s 47th annual Youth Leadership Conference held at Angelo State University, June 14-18, was Tyler Fink. The student was sponsored by the Gonzales County Farm Bureau. He joined more than 275 high school juniors and seniors from over 150 counties across the state.

The purpose of the conference is to provide the students with a better understanding of their American heritage, the capitalistic free enterprise system, and to inspire leadership development, according to John Raeke, president of the Gonzales County Farm Bureau.

During the weeklong event, students discuss topics such as the free enterprise system, constitutional government, Americanism, leadership and goal setting. Students are encouraged to meet with school and civic groups upon their return home to share what they’ve learned.

A representative of Angelo State University welcomed students to campus at Monday’s opening session. Afterwards, Kenneth Dierschke, president of Texas Farm Bureau, presented “Farm Bureau - Your Host.”

Emilee Trlica, TFB field representative; Kirby Kennedy, 2009 Free Enterprise Speech Contest winner; and Shelby Gonzalez, 2009 Miss TFB, presented “Farm Bureau Scholarship Opportunities.”

Dr. Jim Sartwelle, TFB public policy director, presented sessions on “Basics of Free Enterprise,” Ronald Trowbridge, former assistant dean at Hillsdale College in Michigan, presented two-part sessions on “The Constitution,” and Gary Evans, a registered investment advisor, offered advice on “Managing Money.”

Lou Kennedy, a professional development consultant, led a session on “Professionalism in Life” and San Angelo Mayor Alvin New, former president of Town and Country Food Stores, discussed “Free Enterprise in America.” In addition, the students participated in a program called “Congressional Insight,” which allowed them to simulate a Congressional office and election.

At Thursday evening’s banquet, Chad Hymas of Utah, a motivational speaker, shared his personal message of “Overcoming Adversity.”

Students who complete the Youth Leadership Conference and have given a speech on free enterprise to at least five groups will have taken the first step toward qualifying for the Free Enterprise Speech contest, which awards more than $19,000 in scholarships.