by KARYSA BROWNING, Polk County FFA Federation Vice President
News flash! Currently in Florida, the forecast shows heavy signs of active FFA members showcasing their skills! In the midst of Fair season, we are experiencing the reality of hard work paying off. This last month, we got to see students all over Florida come together to compete with their SAE projects and in state CDE competitions at the Florida State Fair.
Just like any jackpot, Fair weeks are long and tiring. It takes dedication and passion for the industry to be able to accomplish these goals we set for ourselves. A dedicated student who demonstrated that was Marlee Goodman from the FLVS FFA chapter. Winning “Grand Champion Grey Brahman” and “Supreme Overall Bull” with her bull, AT Mr. Conway, Marlee’s advice to you is, “Never be afraid to ask questions. There is always someone in the industry who is willing to help, and try your hardest even when you want to give up because you never know what your future will be.” These inspiring words from Marlee showcase the sportsmanship FFA students demonstrate in both the barn and the ring, and are promising for the future of agriculture.
Over in the pig barn, you don’t want to miss Cason Herman from the Bartow Middle FFA Chapter. This hardworking individual won “Grand Champion Overall Barrow” with his Pig Rooster. Cason says, “When I get in the ring, I feel pumped up to show off all my hard work that I learned from long hours at the barn!” Cason, along with other students all over, can only tell you what a late night at the barn is like; Although it can be frustrating at times, when you see that effort pay off right in front of your eyes, it truly is a remarkable feeling. It’s amazing to see the success of the students who helped create the Florida FFA image, and it’s even better to hear the story that goes hand in hand with that journey. Fair season is the perfect time for us to celebrate our 78th annual National FFA week and see it in action! This tradition, carried over from 1948, lets us take a moment to honor all the future agriculturists in our community and appreciate how agriculture contributes to our everyday life. Taking place on the week of George Washington’s birthday, February 22, National FFA week is dedicated to current and past members reflecting on all they have or wish to accomplish. February is a month dedicated to the future of Agriculture! Let this not take away from future dates, as March is rolling in hot with two fairs coming up! At the beginning of March we have the Strawberry Festival, and then March will be wrapping up with the Central Florida Youth In Agriculture Livestock Showcase and Sale. We wish every student competing good luck with hopes that they accomplish their goals! Thank you for this quick program, back to you Florida FFA!