CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Applications for the Murray Wise Associates Foundation have been extended to April 15 to allow promising agriculture students to apply and ensure that no scholarships go unclaimed.

The scholarships were established to provide college scholarship funds for outstanding students pursuing degrees in agriculture or agriculturally related subject areas.

Eligible applicants include high school seniors accepted for enrollment at an accredited college, university or community college in a course of study related to agriculture or agribusiness. Students already in college may also apply.

Awards are for a minimum of $1,000 per year and may be renewed yearly for up to four years provided certain conditions are met. Applicants are selected based on academic credentials, including class rank, grade point average and test scores. Demonstrated leadership qualities, especially in agriculture and community-based extracurricular activities, will also be considered.

Individuals may download the application at www.murraywiseassociates.com/foundation or call 800-607-6888. 

EAST LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan Soybean Promotion Committee (MSPC) recently completed its offering of a soybean video contest for Michigan FFA Chapters. The focus of the 2012 Michigan FFA Soybean Video Contest was to inform the public about Michigan’s soybean farmers and their dedication to produce soybeans for food, feed, fiber, and fuel. Michigan FFA Chapters competed to create unique, educational, and entertaining videos containing the message, “Put a Little Soy in Your Life,” to be promoted on Facebook. 

Final rankings were determined by the amount of views on the MSPC Facebook page as of 12 p.m. EST on March 6. The results are: the first place winner receiving $3,000 was the Saranac FFA Chapter for earning 837 likes on their “Soybean Thriller” video; the second place winner receiving $1,500 was the Springport FFA Chapter for earning 657 likes on their “Put a Little Soy in Your Life” video; and the third place winner receiving $650 was the Saline FFA Chapter for receiving 287 likes on their “The Michigan Soybean: From the Field to You” YouTube video. Check out these entertaining videos at the MSPC Facebook page at www.facebook.com/MichiganSoybean/videos and share them with your family and friends. Remember to put a little soy in your life!

BRATTLEBORO, Vt. — Eight finalists have been named in Holstein Assoc. USA’s annual Young Distinguished Junior Member (YDJM) competition. The YDJM recognition is the highest award given to National Junior Holstein members, ages 9 to 16, and honors their dairy project work and involvement with other agricultural and community organizations. The eight finalists will be recognized during the 2012 National Holstein Convention, June 27-30, in Springfield, Mo.

This year’s YDJM finalists are: Annie Achen, South Ambia, Ind.; Cole Davis, Pleasant Garden, N.C.; Emily Irwin, Belvidere, Ill.; Katherine Larson, Viroqua, Wis.; Laura Lesher, Bernville, Pa.; Tony Lopes, Gustine, Calif.; Kathryn Osborne, Millerstown, Pa.; and Jordan Siemers, Newton, Wis.

Applicants for the YDJM award complete an entry book, which summarizes their involvement with Holstein cattle and programs, as well as other extracurricular activities.

For more information, visit www.holsteinusa.com/juniors, or contact Kelli Dunklee at 800-952-5200, ext. 4124.