The Urbana FFA took a trip to Indianapolis, Indiana, for the National FFA Convention. The convention was held Oct. 24-27. The National FFA Organization formerly was known as Future Farmers of America, but changed its name to adapt to its diversity in membership. It is a national youth organization of 669,989 student members as part of 8,630 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.
This year the Urbana FFA joined with West Liberty-Salem and Ridgedale FFA chapters to travel in a charter bus. Students were wowed by motivational speakers and the massive career show. The first day students attended Beck’s Hybrid’s for a tour about how Becks produces their hybrid corn. That evening members watched Garth Brooks live at the Lucas Oil Stadium.
On Thursday members went to the Hunter’s Honey Farm. We learned the importance of bees and the importance of what they produce, which can be beneficial to people’s health. Members and advisors then attended Red Robin for a delicious lunch.
After lunch the group then went to Beasley’s Orchard in Danville, IN. Students were able to go on hay rides, shoot apples from apple cannons, try apple cider, and then ask questions to the owner of Beasley’s Orchard. For dinner members enjoyed a pizza and pasta buffet while preparing to attend the Buckeye Bash, which is a social put on by the Ohio FFA organization for Ohio members only. Members enjoyed dressing up in their buckeye gear and mingling with members from across the state.
On Friday members went to the convention center attending sessions with keynote speakers from all over the country. Later students had the opportunity to visit the career show. Friday evening members visited the Indy Scream park to have some entertaining down time and screams at the haunted park.
Saturday marked the final day of convention and the awarding of the American FFA Degree; the highest honor bestowed on a member. Jared Weller, an Urbana FFA Chapter member and 2017 graduate, received his American Degree. The 2018 National Convention trip was a great success! This trip was a great opportunity to meet new people, build leadership skills, discover career opportunities and make new friends.
Thank you to the great advisors, Mrs. Zachrich, Mrs. Havens (West Liberty Salem), and Mrs. Guthrie (Ridgedale), who made the trip a successful learning experience and a great time!
Annual Fruit Sale
The Urbana FFA Chapter has began their annual fruit sale. Students are selling fruits, nuts, sweet potatoes, apple cider, mustard, dipping sauces, and beef sticks. The fruits that are being offered include navel oranges, juice oranges, mandarin oranges, grapefruit, pineapple, pears, and variety fruit gift packs. Students will also be selling cheese spreads and summer sausage. If there are any questions, please contact advisors Mallory Zachrich, and Steve Wilhelm at [email protected] and [email protected]
