I built this platform of mine (some 20 years ago) with the idea of spreading positive thoughts. I was tired of all the doom and gloom in the media and people always looking to tear everyone down rather than helping to be a positive light and build people up. With this in mind, I’ve tried my best to help promote families and individuals who are also working hard to spread a positive message.
I am proud to say, Michelle and I traveled up to Illinois this past winter to visit the Strom Family Farm. Grant, his sister Joanie, and the rest of the family took us out for a wonderful dinner and welcomed us with open arms. This is also when I first met Sidney Stiers, who is Joanies daughter. To say we were impressed by Sidney, the way she carried herself, the way she spoke, etc… would be a huge understatement. When Michelel and I both got back in the pickup truck, we looked at each other and at the same time said, “what a great family”… Then without missing a beat, again at the same time, we both said, “How about that Sidney girl…” she is destined for bit things.
Sidney last week retired from the post of Illinois FFA State Reporter. Illinois is among the few states where FFA state officers take a gap year from college to commit to what is equivalent to more than a full-time job to serve members in the state through leadership training, workshop facilitation, delivery of inspirational messages, and agriculture advocacy. It’s hard for some to understand the requirement to put a year of college on hold, but the hands-on education, personal growth, responsibilities, opportunities, and connections are unmatched. She will attend Iowa State University this fall and double major in agronomy and horticulture.
This past week, Sidney delivered her retiring address as an Illinois FFA Major State Officer to an audience of 7,000 people, including FFA members, advisors, and guests, and what a speech it was!
I encourage everyone to take the time and listen to Sidney’s speech in full detail and share it with your kids and grandkids to show them a great example of what they can achieve. I am always amazed by some of our nation’s great young leaders.. and I consider Sidney Stiers to be among the best! Click HERE
