chapter highlights: Melrose ffa

Today’s youth is the backbone of the future. In this spirit, Melrose FFA promotes the education of the younger generation through Ag Explorer Day, an opportunity for kids to come together and learned about different aspects of the agriculture industry. Through hands-on activities, Melrose 4th graders and prospective FFA members sparked their curiosity about the future of agriculture. “We are trying to set people up for careers and career skills,” says chapter President Truitt Sallee. Truitt facilitated a workshop that demonstrated the process of making butter. Melrose FFA wants to promote engagement in the program in the future, which is why it’s so important to plant the seed now.

With butter on the mind, it wouldn’t be right to leave out Melrose’s success in the Dairy contest at State Judging. The Dairy CDE is one of the most difficult events, challenging competitors to hone skills such as observation, analysis, and communication. Melrose placed 1st at state, indicating the dedication that went into preparing for the contest. However, Dairy wasn’t the only competition that Melrose placed well in. The Entomology team placed 3rd, and the Poultry team placed 5th. Chapter Secretary Jalee Snipes recalls that “7 teams this year were first-year teams with half of them walking stage.” Participation by younger members has grown, illustrating the inclusion Melrose FFA promotes.

Another way for members to participate is through FFA week. Unlike judging, FFA week doesn’t require months of studying to have a good time. This year, Melrose FFA hosted various dress-up days, with themes such as Pajama Day, Career Day, and Athlete vs. Mathlete Day. “I like how everyone can be involved,” says chapter Treasurer Aiden Vancleave. “I think it’s important members be engaged even if they don’t want to compete or go on FFA trips.” Pictured below are some of the best outfits from members throughout FFA Week.

Now, while those outfits are great, it’s safe to say the best outfit in FFA is the blue jacket. And there’s nowhere else in the world you will find more blue jackets than National Convention in Indianapolis. This past convention, one member in particular took a step forward in her FFA career. Rilee Priest, a former Melrose FFA member, received her American Degree, showcasing her contribution to the organization. “This is Melrose’s first American Degree in 5 years,” notes chapter President Truitt Sallee.

Wrapping up the end of the year, Melrose FFA put on their annual Chapter Banquet. The banquet is an opportunity for the community to come together and recognize the accomplishments of the chapter over the past year. A staple of the Melrose Banquet is their annual auction, where various items are sold to community members as a way to raise money for the Chapter’s future endeavors. “Items include ag mechanics projects and baked goods,” explains chapter Sentinel Zona Hollaway. “The Melrose community is super supportive of the ag program,” she also says. Featured below are some of the auction items made by members.

The Melrose FFA Chapter has always been an integral part of the school community. Chapter Secretary Jalee Snipes wants to remind people that “you can’t spell buffalo [the Melrose mascot] without FFA.” Many of the hours Melrose FFA puts into their pursuits are behind the scenes. The chapter officers want to make sure everyone knows the hard work that goes into the program’s success. Right now, the chapter officers would describe the chapter as “overlooked,” but hope to increase recognition for the great things they do.