The Tyrone Area FFA was well represented at the 2025 Pennsylvania Farm Show from January 6-11, with several members placing in the annual AgriScience competition and others winning awards in various other competitions and categories.
The Farm Show is an annual celebration that attracts attendees from across the state, highlighting the importance of agriculture, food, and community connection.
A remarkable 63% of Tyrone Area FFA chapter members showcased at least one project for display or competition, significantly impacting the event.
The Farm Show exemplifies Pennsylvania’s agricultural heritage and the community that supports it. This year’s event featured many exciting activities and exhibits that engaged visitors of all ages.
Attendees enjoyed experiences ranging from sampling delicious foods to interacting with farm animals and exploring creative displays and demonstrations. A particularly beloved feature was the famous PA Dairymen’s Association milkshake, a staple visitors look forward to each year.
The Farm Show is also a platform for organizations like the Tyrone Area FFA to highlight their dedication and passion for agriculture.
The event included livestock shows and skill competitions, enabling attendees to learn more about agriculture while creating lasting memories with friends and family.
Junior Janice Gilliland showcased her skills in the livestock events, earning fourth overall and third in her division for market lambs.
“A lot of work goes into my lamb and goat projects, but it is worth it when it all pays off. Winning at the Farm Show was one of my goals, so it is amazing to see it all work out,” Gilliland said.
Junior Sarah Weakland placed in the photography category.
“I entered three photos into the Farm Show and placed with one of them. Being surrounded by people who share the same interests makes it an enjoyable experience,” Weakland said.
Senior Nora Hoy undertook the challenge of crafting a live flower arrangement that integrated vegetables as part of her competition in the Agricultural Education Horticulture division, earning third place.
Utilizing grains commonly found in livestock feed alongside dried beans, senior Sarah Zimmerman secured first place for her 2-D crop art.
Six members of the Tyrone Area FFA earned awards in the annual AgriScience competition.
The competition allows students to demonstrate their knowledge and passion for agricultural science, as well as research and presentation skills. The participants presented their research findings to a panel of judges on Friday, January 3.
Tyrone’s Ryleigh Holmes and Frances Weaver earned first place for their Agriscience projects. Cassidy Fleck and Paige Hoy earned second place, with Catie Sklenar taking third and Nora Hoy winning fourth place.
Holmes said he was a little nervous before the presentations but was able to keep his composure and do well in his presentation.
“I felt more pressure because this was my first time doing this and wanted to show my peers that I could do it. I put a lot of effort into my AgriScience project and feel very accomplished and honored to receive first place in my freshman year,” Holmes said.
Members of the Tyrone Area FFA also contributed by working at the Pennsylvania FFA Foundation Pizza stand, ensuring a clean and organized environment for visitors.
Paige Hoy, Reilly Rawlings, Bailey Woomer, and Carlie Nowlin worked to maintain a sanitary eating area and assisted at the cash register.
Frances Weaver and Nora Hoy also volunteered at the Honey Bee Ice Cream Stand, serving a variety of flavors, including classic Vanilla, Chocolate, Raspberry, and the crowd-favorite Salty Caramel. The event also featured a unique flavor, Cinnamon, which delighted many guests.
The Pennsylvania Farm Show continues to be a vital platform for celebrating agriculture and fostering community spirit, with Tyrone Area FFA members leading the way.
