Diane Raver
The Farm-City Banquet allows time for people from the city and the country to “learn some new things about what’s going on in Batesville,” announces Julie Wenning, Batesville High School FFA adviser.
“It’s a good time for all these different folks who may not cross paths throughout the year to get together,” reports committee member Ed Krause.
This year’s event, sponsored by Batesville High School FFA, Kiwanis Club of Batesville and Batesville Area Chamber of Commerce, takes place Tuesday, Nov. 18, at the Batesville Middle School Commons.
“We will be honoring two FFA students for their (national) achievements,” Wenning comments.
Lindsey Gunter received “one of 10 national agri-entrepreneurship awards .... Joey (Harmeyer) was named the winner of his swine production proficiency .... I think it will be nice to honor Joey and Lindsey in front of the community.”
Krause adds, “We will also be recognizing longtime members of the FFA Advisory Board.”
Committee member Gene Wuestefeld says Wenning is “putting together a slide show of the past history of the FFA and the past history of Batesville,” which will be shown prior to dinner.
William “Buzz” Weberding will present a history of Weberding Carving Shop.
The 28 FFA members are in charge of the opening and closing ceremonies. They also help with the serving, setup and cleanup, reveals the adviser.
The organization’s leader, Allen Giesting, emphasizes, “Being president, I will have to conduct the meeting .... (and) introduce the speakers.
The BHS senior enjoys the annual banquet because “there is a diverse crowd .... It is good publicity for the FFA .... and always a fun event.”
Wuestefeld is looking forward to “being around other people in the community,” including farmers and business owners.
Krause notes this evening “is a good opportunity for the public or community members who are unfamiliar with FFA to see some of those students and learn about some of the activities they do.”
Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Dinner is at 6:30 p.m., and the menu includes shredded pork, corn, green beans, potatoes au gratin, cole slaw, rolls and pumpkin pie.
Tickets are $7 and should be purchased by Friday, Nov. 14. They are available from any FFA member, FCN Bank and Hertel Shoes.
