I am a member of the Kentucky Mafia

I am officially a member of a Mafia. Now don't freak out, I promise it is totally PG rated...okay, maybe PG-13 (just kidding :)). While at the Kentucky State Convention, I had the honor of being inducted into the state officer Mafia, which includes a SWEET tuxedo t-shirt! I am truly honored.

The Kentucky Mafia is simply a fun inside "connection" between the 2007-2008 state officers. From the moment they met as state officer candidates (SOCs as they are called in KY), they created the name for themselves along with a fun chant and they have continued it ever since. What is the purpose? The purpose is fun.

Yes, fun! The KY FFA members have mastered this concept, and I was lucky enough to take part in it while at their convention. Unfortunately, I was unable to make the first two sessions due to travel, but when I made it to Louisville the members were pumped and energetic! Thursday night was the convention social, including guitar hero, corn hole, music, and college chants! As much fun as this night was, it was only an introduction to what the rest of convention had in store.

The sessions were filled with beautiful vocalist, blue-grass artists, motivational speakers, and impressive state officers' words of inspiration. Friday evening was the Kentucky dance where we circled up and literally danced the night away!


My personal favorite was "Burning Ring of Fire" by Jonny Cash. Saturday was the final day of convention, and an emotional one at that.

Kirby, the state President, gave a wonderful retiring address about the importance of not letting fears stand in your way of enjoying life to its fullest. During the final session the state officers also recognized their parents and family. As I sat during this final session, I realized it would be my last state convention session I would ever sit in wearing a blue jacket. Yes, the Kentucky State Convention was my last for the year. Was I sad? Actually, I couldn't have been more pleased. The final session was everything a state convention session should be...and more. I am so pleased to have finished off my conventions as a national officer with the FFA members of Kentucky in the beautiful Galt hotel with the enthusiasm that infused the entire convention hall.

The Kentucky convention was a special convention for me. I couldn't have had more fun or a more perfect group of FFA members to remind me of why I do what I do. Thank you to all of the members of the Kentucky FFA Association. I am proud to say that I am a member of the Kentucky FFA Association "Mafia." :)