By Melanie Orozco, State FFA Reporter
After the hectic month of October, which included travel to the 95th National FFA Convention & Expo in Indianapolis, we were happy to make our way back to California and focus on our remaining chapter visits.
At the beginning of the month, we concentrated our efforts in the Fresno area. Here we were welcomed with open arms, and we had amazing experiences with members. A highlight included visiting the Reedley FFA Chapter, where we witnessed many ways the ag program is connecting students to agriculture despite being located in a densely populated area.
Next, our team traveled to the Holtville FFA Chapter, located in the southeastern corner of our state. It was especially meaningful to me to host my fellow officers at my home chapter. We began our weekend in the town of Brawley for the annual Cattle Call Rodeo. Then, we crossed the border into Mexico for an industry tour with the bio-based packaging company, BioBreak Industries. We also made sure to enjoy some birria tacos before we returned to California. Holtville FFA families invited our team to participate in a desert recreation experience that included the state officer team, chapter members, and the members of the FFA booster club.
The state officer team finished the month with Southern California agricultural tours. FFA alumni and Imperial County farmer, Ronnie Leimgruber, and Past State Officer and current FFA Foundation board member, Nick Wells, came together to give our state officer team an incredible Imperial Valley irrigation tour. Additionally, One World Beef Packers provided an industry tour where our team learned first-hand about the technological advancements in the beef processing industry.
Like many of you, we celebrated Thanksgiving with our families. As we reflect on our experiences of the last few months, we are grateful for each of you and the generous way you’ve welcomed our team this fall.
From baking contests, to paintball wars, to desert rides—our team had a unique and memorable experience at every chapter we visited. “As the chapter visit season comes to a close, all I can say is ‘thank you’,” reflected State FFA President, Abigail Jacobsen. “Thank you to the advisors who welcomed us into their programs, to the supporters who welcomed us into their homes, and to the members who welcomed us into their lives. After months of uncontrolled laughter, genuine conversations, and unforgettable memories, I have never been more proud to wear the same jacket as the nearly 100,000 other members of California FFA.” Our entire state officer team is beyond grateful for the experience. We can’t wait to see what the next season holds.
