Thomas County Middle FFA members recently competed in Career Development Events (CDE) to test their knowledge and skills in a variety of areas. The competitions were held on September 28, 2017 at Pelham High School.

The Meats Evaluation team placed 2nd and will advance to the State Competition in Athens on November 11th. Team members were Ashley Brannen, Elizabeth Hall, and Taylor Stegall. These students identified 25 meat cuts, including species, retail name, wholesale cut, and cookery method. They also placed 3 classes of retail cuts based on cut and quality.

The Land Evaluation team placed 4th and included Austin Clark, RJ Dukes, Caleb Harrell, and TJ Saunders. Students had to determine land classification, use, and treatment practices for selected sites with consideration given to topsoil texture and thickness, effective depth, permeability of subsoil, slope, erosion, drainage, and land capability.

Zoey Griffin competed in the Floral Design CDE and completed a centerpiece arrangement and boutonniere based on a given scenario. Her centerpiece arrangement scored third highest overall.

Rayne Gipson competed in a very tough FFA Quiz CDE in which she had to complete a written exam over FFA history, facts, and parliamentary procedure.

FFA is a national organization of over 501,000 members preparing for leadership and careers in the science, business and technology of agriculture. FFA is an integral part of the agricultural education program in public schools. The FFA mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success through agricultural education.

Pictured on top from left to right:  R.J. Dukes, Caleb Harrell, T.J. Saunders, and Austin Clark.  Pictured on bottom from left to right:  Elizabeth Hall, Ashley Brannen, Taylor Stegall, Rayne Gipson, and Zoey Griffin.