On Monday night August 29, 2022, Cotton Hall was ablaze with excitement--The very first FFA BLUE AND GOLD Social was underway. The theme was “Remember our Past, Discover our Future.” Miller County FFA advisor Ms. Mandy Long kicked off the evening with a welcome followed by the introduction of the FFA officer teams for the High School and the Middle School.
FFA President Hattie Harrison then took the podium and called the meeting to order. The Roll Call of the officers began with Vice President Dutch Pace presiding. The Roll Call of officers provides information regarding their responsibilities and duties. At its conclusion, Ms. Long introduced the special guests for the evening. They were: Paul Fryer, representing Sanford Bishop’s office; State Representative Gerald Greene; Justin West sat in for his brother Chris West a congressional hopeful; and Winfred Dukes. In addition, Miller County Officials included: Chris Goff & Garrison Clenney from the Miller County Sheriff’s Office; Fire Chief Craig Tully; and Mayor Preston Clenney. Shawn Cleveland, Katie Bishop, Mindi Merritt, & Renee Spence from the Miller County FSA Office and Leigh Rabolzi, Miller County Collaborative; were in attendance. Miller County Schools were represented by Superintendent Shane Miller, High School Principal Tommy Tabb, and Vice Principal Latonya Cratic. Agricultural education state and regional leaders were also present: Stacey Beacham and Shawn Collins. Parents, community leaders, business owners, bank personnel, Miller County Hospital, as well professional practitioners were there to enjoy the festivities.
After these introductions, several members and supporters expressed their ideas about how FFA had impacted their lives. Ms. Mandy Roland, President of the Miller/Colquitt Chamber of Commerce offered moving comments about how FFA had influenced her son, Dutch, in a positive manner. Specifically, she mentioned leadership, personal growth, and several personal accomplishments Dutch had experienced while in FFA. She went on to say how FFA teaches business skills such as interviewing, preparation for competitive events; professionalism; core business and work ethics. “These are qualities and skills students will need for their entire lives to be successful and competitive in today’s world.” She had observed these qualities in Dutch since he became active in FFA. Dutch then expressed his feelings regarding brotherhood, friendship, knowledge of agriculture and how it affects our region, our state and our national economy. He said, “All of these advantages while having fun doing it.” FFA appears to be a life enhancing experience for all who venture in. Jaleya Finch and Hattie Harrison also expressed their feelings regarding “What FFA means to me”.
Following the speeches, Chaplain Brody Kelly offered the blessing. The attendees then helped themselves to an old-fashioned pulled pork entrée from Smokin’ Moes with all the trimmings. Desserts were provided by the FFA parents. Around 130 plates were served at the social.
Following the meal, there was a time of fellowship and networking. This was the highlight of the evening. A good time was had by all who attended. Students, parents, elected officials, school and business personnel, administrators of all types as well as small business owners all had something to gain by attending. Good food, fellowship, and a pleasant home-town atmosphere are the makings of a great Blue and Gold Social.
Thank you to the Miller County FFA Middle and High School officers, parents, and others who played a part in the delivery of this event. A special thank you to Mandy Long and Jason Houston; they are the heart of the agriculture education program at Miller County High School.
Miller County Middle School’s FFA 22-23 officer team is: Student Advisors, Emma Peterson/Ashlyn Toliver/Jillian Higginbothom; Parliamentarian, Kadence Sexton; Historian, Sutton Alday; Chaplain, Jaleya Finch, Sentinel, Reed McNease; Reporter, Mason Horace; Treasurer, Mary Vines Hall; Secretary, Harlowe Spence; Vice President, Fletcher Long; and President, Jackson Cofty.
Miller County High School’s FFA 22-23 officer team is: Student Advisors, Yaritza Azua/ Emma Grace Donley; Parliamentarian, Felix Butler/Talmage Crockett; Historian, Ryles McNease; Chaplain, Brody Kelley/Wyatt Horace; Sentinel, Madison Cofty; Reporter, Colin Williams; Treasurer, Jack Mercer Hall; Secretary, Jada Cox; Vice President, Dutch Pace; and President, Hattie Harrison.
Original source can be found here.
Alerts Sign-up