July 27, 2015
Final Four Discussion Meet Finalists Announced
The 2015 Preliminary and Semi-Final Discussion Meet rounds were held at the Young Farmers & Ranchers Leadership Conference in Naples last weekend, July 17-19. Four young farmers will advance to the state finals at the Florida Farm Bureau’s Annual Meeting in October.
Kelly Mosley of Clay County, Kiley Larsen of Western Palm Beach County, Trevor Murphy of Highlands County and Dean Cheshire of Alachua County will advance to the state Discussion Meet competition with their polished and effective communication skills.
Florida Farm Bureau’s Discussion Meet contest is one of three statewide competitions designed for Young Farmers & Ranchers under the age of 35. It simulates a committee meeting where discussion and active participation is expected from each participant. The competition is evaluated on an exchange of ideas and information on a pre-determined topic. Judges look for the contestant who offers constructive criticism, cooperation and communication while analyzing agricultural problems and developing solutions.
The state winner will receive a new Polaris ATV, courtesy of Southern Farm Bureau Life, a $500 cash award and an expense paid trip to the 2016 American Farm Bureau Annual Meeting in Orlando to compete for the national title.
About the Finalists
Mosley is a 6th generation farmer who owns and operates Amazing Grace Crop Maze with her husband Justin in Green Cove Springs. Mosley is also a career and technical education specialist for Clay County School District.
Larsen is a safety consultant and owns NK Lago Farms, LLC, a banana, plantain, papaya and pineapple farm in Canal Point with her husband, Nick.
Murphy owns and operates Murphy Ag Solutions, an agricultural distribution company in Avon Park.
Cheshire is an Alachua County native and business entrepreneur who owns and operates The Cheshire Companies in Gainesville.