Host Committee Makes Corpus Christi an FFA Hot Spot
Thursday, July 12, 2012 | Author: Theresa Fenner, Falls City FFA
Several factors are involved in the planning of a statewide convention, including where to hold a convention for thousands of Texas FFA members and guests. Fortunately, the record-breaking 2012 Corpus Christi Host Committee was up for the job.
Among numerous other tasks, the host committee promotes the convention’s host city. Their tasks include raising money and donations for various groups and projects at the convention, including the food drive, Courtesy Corps and more. In fact, the committee surpassed its goal of raising $200,000, with more than $205,000 raised so far.
The committee is also contacts judges, organizes state officer retreats and tours and ensures an enjoyable state convention experience in Corpus Christi.
“The host committee does more than just raise money,” Texas FFA State President Peyton Gilbert said. “They don’t just invest dollars; they invest in the future with our work as a team and members in the Texas FFA.”
The committee consists of businesses and individuals who donate their time to make the state convention a success. To do this, Committee Chairman John Steelhammer said he surrounds himself with a committee of top individuals. Each of these individuals bring unique qualities to the host committee to help make the convention special and successful.
Steelhammer feels that a variety of activities, sites and a city that welcomes visitors makes Corpus Christi a great host city for the state convention.
Corpus Christi makes Steelhammer’s fourth committee, but his first as committee chairman. However, his roots in Texas FFA go back to his parents’ teaching career in agriculture, annual summer vacations to FFA state conventions and his role as a member of the 1985-1986 state officer team. Steelhammer credits FFA entirely for where he is today.
This year’s host committee includes David Ainsworth, Mia Balko, Daniel Stanton, Sam Canavati, Sara Tays, Jerome Tymrak, Randall Williams, Barbie Mosley, Steve Mosley, Dennis and Bonnie Berry, John Valls, Tracy Wright, Jay Newberry, Lance Bradley and Steve VanMatre.
“I’m in debt,” Steelhammer said about being involved in the committee and explained he is still paying back the FFA for what the organization has given him.
“The passion is still there from the host committee,” Gilbert said. “They’re enthusiastic. They all represent something I’d like to do someday, and that is to give back.”
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