The 50th Annual Prairiland FFA Livestock Show and Fundraiser proved to be a success once again this year.
“Last year we had 14 responses to be buckle sponsors and this year we had approximately 40 respond back willing to help. We not only covered the belt buckles for the livestock show, but we were also able to have the Top 10 FFA Member buckles covered as well as the BBQ meal and showmanship prizes,” said FFA Advisor Kelly Stapleton. “We appreciate all of the support from our sponsors, volunteers, and those who donated items that help make this event happen every year.”
Many items were donated from individuals and businesses in the community and projects built by students to sell in the auction. The fundraiser is what provides the organization with the monetary support to be able to be competitive and self-sufficient throughout the year in all the activities the students participate from local all the way to state. These activities include leadership camps, conventions, competitions, and monthly FFA meetings just to name a few. In paying for expenses earned through this fundraiser, students and parents can worry less about the costs for attending competitive events and focus more on developing premier leadership skills, personal growth, and career success through hard work and career ready practices in agricultural education.
“We live in a great community and appreciate the continued support year after year to help grow our students into successful young adults that will be prepared for the real world.”
There are currently 211 FFA members in the high school agricultural education program. 27 students competed in Leadership Development Event contests in the fall. 9 of the 11 teams advanced to area and 2 of those advanced to state.
In Career Development events, there are 26 students on 7 teams. The Land, Forage, and Homesite teams already competed at their area contests and advanced to state. Floriculture, Nursery Landscape and Vet Science all compete at area Tues, April 12 to see if they advance.
“We will have 42 students exhibiting livestock and 5 students exhibiting shop projects April 12-14 at the Lamar County Junior Livestock Show. Attached is a picture taken at the beginning of the auction.”
