The start of the year for Bowling Green FFA means the start of career development events. The first this year was the soil assessment. The chapter took seven members to the district agricultural judging competition in Henry County. Members included Aiden Thomas, Casey Naus, Annie Urban, Addie Naus, Laina Smeltz, Isabelle Grames and Kylah Crawford. The team placed first and qualified for state. Annie Urban, Kylah Crawford and Isabelle Grames represented the section at the state competition on October 12 and finished 43rd in the state.

The chapter concluded the month of September with the Greenhand ceremonies. This is a ceremony in which officers induct first-year members into the national FFA organization. The chapter welcomed 51 new members this year. It was also the first official meeting of the year. After the meeting, members and families were invited into the classroom, where they explored the organization and learned about the opportunities and activities that BG FFA has to offer.

October 4 began the annual fruit and nut sale. BG FFA participates by selling various fruit, nut, meat, cheese and barbecue sauce products. This sale is the only fundraiser held by the chapter to raise money for chapter necessities throughout the year. This year, the sale is happening in a hybrid style where customers can order online or in person from a member.

On October 7, Bowling Green FFA hosted the Wood County Chapter’s graduation ceremonies. This year, the ceremony took place at the Bowling Green Performing Arts Center. 29 members of the BG FFA obtained this diploma. The chapter degree is the highest degree a member can earn at the local chapter level. Diplomas were presented by President Addie Naus and Advisor Stephanie Conway.

Bowling Green FFA members Grace Hovest, Addie Naus, Grace O’Connell, Annie Urban and Emma Nester participated in the county-level job interview career development competition in October. The job interview competition consisted of a member writing a cover letter and resume, completing a job application, participating in a mock job interview, and writing a follow-up letter. Emma Nester placed fifth, Grace Hovest second, Grace O’Connell second, Addie Naus first and Annie Urban sixth. Grace Hovest, Grace O’Connell and Addie Naus will compete in the district competition which will take place on November 7th.

The Bowling Green Agricultural Education Department is a satellite program of the Penta Career Center.

Published by: Jan Larson McLaughlin on November 6, 2024.