Pine Plains FFA embraces future leaders, welcomes support

PINE PLAINS — The Pine Plains FFA ended the month of May celebrating the chapter’s accomplishments at its annual FFA Banquet, on Friday, May 31.

Held in the Stissing Mountain High School gymnasium, the banquet drew local families, farmers, officials and community members happy to show their support for the FFA. 

Silent auction items were displayed on tables outside the gymnasium, inviting guests to submit bids. Dinner was catered by the Stissing Mountain cafeteria staff.

FFA President Nolan Talbot invited his fellow FFA members to share the chapter’s experiences from the 2018-19 school year. One by one, each student talked about the FFA’s goals and how those goals were fulfilled at events and activities this year, including the FFA Fall Festival, the Farm Toy Show and Auction, the New York State Convention and Camp Oswegatchie.

“It takes a village to keep an FFA chapter going,” Dutchess County Legislator Gregg Pulver (R-19) said. “As I’ve said time and time again, the greatest program for youth in high schools is FFA.”

Talbot returned to the podium to recognize first time FFA members, and a line of students soon formed at one end of the gymnasium. 

“We thank you for joining our organization,” said FFA Secretary Heather Bay.

Moving on to the awards presentation, FFA student officials honored their fellow members with various awards and degrees in recognition of their potential, respect, leadership abilities, active involvement and other attributes. Students presented certificates of appreciation to FFA supporters, the administration and parents of the FFA officers.

Next, the current FFA officers were invited to move to the front where they were paired with the new officers for the 2019-20 school year. The current officers read aloud their position’s responsibilities before passing the title on to their successors. Retiring FFA officials were then presented with plaques in recognition of their time and commitment to the FFA; the FFA’s senior members were honored with golden graduation sashes and the ensuing senior speeches came with reflection, gratitude and tears.

Describing the FFA as the best part of his high school experience, FFA Vice President Trevor Slater said it’s “given me confidence to try new things.”

“I have loved every moment over the past few years,” said FFA Secretary Heather Bay. “I really have won the lottery by being part of this organization.”