Evergreen arrangements created by students from three local FFA Chapters added a touch of nature’s warmth and vibrant colors to homes, providing sensory comfort and a seasonal connection. From simple boughs in a vase to elaborate wreaths and garlands, these arrangements bring holiday cheer even to sparse surroundings.

The Tyrone Area FFA Chapter sponsored the second annual Blair County Floriculture Contest, attracting participation from 69 students across three chapters. An impressive 68 students showcased their skills by submitting evergreen arrangements. Competitors also completed a floriculture identification test using Google Sheets, with local agriculture teachers monitoring the process at their respective schools.

“I thoroughly enjoyed creating the evergreen arrangement. It was a lot of fun, and I had the opportunity to learn new skills that I hadn’t explored before,” said Tyrone freshman Violet Weaver.

Each student received a kit containing all necessary materials to craft an evergreen arrangement within their school’s agricultural workshops. The completed arrangements were delivered to the Tyrone Area High School Agricultural program by December 12. On Saturday, December 13, six judges evaluated the submissions.

“This experience provides many students with the chance to hone their time management skills, as they must complete an arrangement within an hour. The ID test also enhances their test-taking abilities. Overall, it’s a positive experience and a wonderful way to spread holiday cheer in our community, as all arrangements are donated after the event,” said Josie Dicken, a junior from Tyrone Area.

The top 25 students in the contest were:

1. Carlie Nowlin, Tyrone Area
2. Madisen Jones, Tyrone Area
3. Paige Hoy, Tyrone Area
4. Cassidy Fleck, Tyrone Area
5. Violet Weaver, Tyrone Area
6. Alyssa Houck, Tyrone Area
7. Frances Weaver, Tyrone Area
8. Taylor Wrye, Tyrone Area
9. Katelynn Dively, Central Cove
10. Kayden Ansman, Tyrone Area
11. Josie Dicken, Tyrone Area
12. Catie Sklenar, Tyrone Area
13. Gracie Graham, Tyrone Area
14. Zachary Zaepfel, Tyrone Area
15. Duane Doty, Tyrone Area
16. Ivan Ellenberger, Tyrone Area
17. Emma Stone, Williamsburg
18. Bailey Woomer, Tyrone Area
19. Austin Beamer, Tyrone Area
20. Riley Harpster, Tyrone Area
21. Michael Fletcher, Tyrone Area
22. Reilly Rawlings, Tyrone Area
23. Alana Murtaugh, Tyrone Area
24. Wyatt Walls, Tyrone Area
25. Abby Lucas, Tyrone Area

The chapter also accepted pre-orders from faculty and staff for arrangements, grave blankets, and wreaths. Before the contest, 91% of the Tyrone Area Agriculture Education students crafted an evergreen arrangement after a demonstration, either taking them home or gifting them within the school community.

Within nine school days, members produced 138 arrangements meeting program standards, with 20 donated to Cedarwood Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center, 20 to the Tyrone Area Education Association, and 20 to the Tyrone Area Food Bank. Additionally, they crafted 10 grave blankets and 42 wreaths. An impressive 98% of Tyrone Area Agricultural Education Program students participated in the Evergreen project.

Special thanks are extended to Warriors Mark Wingshooting Kennels and Lodge, GNP Turning Point Woodworking, and FFA Alumni members for donating the evergreens and assisting with the project.