For one member it's the fulfillment of a long-time goal

By TERRELL WILLIAMS

For the Capital Press

TWIN FALLS, Idaho -- A packed auditorium at the College of Southern Idaho let out full-blast cheers as Idaho's new 2012-13 Future Farmers of America Officers were announced.

Each newbie was escorted to the stage on the fly by exuberant retiring officers. As the four-day 81st State Leadership Conference ended April 14, this was the final crowning event.

Tanner Beymer, of Kimberly, was overjoyed to be selected as president.

"It's been a dream of mine since my freshman year, a dream that turned into a goal," he said.

Years of preparation to run for his office included "heart and soul" studying of agriculture issues, and practicing his interviewing skills. He also served as district vice president of South Magic Valley.

As Idaho's FFA president, Beymer said he hopes to reach out to students from sixth to eighth grades, and to get these possible future members inspired about FFA. Each person is a small piece of a big puzzle, he said of his message to the next generations.

"You have to find the right fit for the right piece," he said. "There is something there for you."

His parents, Holly and Josh Beymer, were standing by with cameras and hugs for their son.

"I think it's his personality," Holly said of why her son was the selected leader. "He is passionate and dynamic, especially towards FFA. That's what wins people over."

They talked about how Tanner has become the third generation to work the family farm south of Twin Falls, producing mostly hay and cattle. As a hardworking teenage farmhand, this new president raises steers, makes investments, corrugates fields and lays pipe.

"He's a very talented kid," Holly added. "He can sing and act. He plays guitar and trumpet. And piano."

Tanner has one additional skill, Josh said. "He auctioneers, which is a pretty impressive talent."

The other new Idaho FFA officers are Ayla Neumeyer of Bonners Ferry, vice president; Lauren Clark of Meridian, secretary; Lauren Gleed of Preston, treasurer; Michelle Ball of Kuna, reporter; and Ellie Dalton of Dietrich, sentinel.

The six new officers were part of a field of 24 candidates. They were interviewed, tested and ultimately selected by a nominating committee made up of their peers and advisors.

Neumeyer said being a district officer -- reporter for North Idaho -- and helping as a mentor to younger FFA members helped her become the new vice president, although she did not run for a specific office.

"It's all about being on a team," she said. "It's that you make the team. I think that's all any of us were really focused on."