From Monday, February 20 through Friday, February 24, members of Marietta High School’s FFA chapter had a packed schedule of activities to celebrate National FFA Week.
Some activities, like dress up days and the annual and much-awaited teacher/member cookout were held on campus.
Other activities were celebrated with chapters from other area schools. For instance, MHS members traveled to Lone Grove for the Lone Grove Ag Olympics on Monday afternoon, and to Turner for Donkey Basketball on Tuesday night. And all three county chapters were present on Wednesday evening for the county barn set up in preparation for the county livestock show.
For one activity, several chapter members traveled with advisor Kelsi Kamesch to Oklahoma City for FFA Day at the Capitol, where members took the time to visit with their elected officials to advocate for FFA.
But there was one activity, held in Marietta, that students and advisors agreed was the best of them all. Hands down.
“The highlight of our week was the nursing home barnyard,” Kamesch explained. “Marietta FFA had the honor of sharing their passion for animal agriculture with the residents of Lake Country Nursing Center.”
On Tuesday, February 21, students brought a barnyard of baby animals for the nursing center residents to hold and enjoy. For many residents – especially those raised in rural areas or with animals – the barnyard babies brought back happy memories of childhood.
“Our students loved this experience and spoke about how happy it made them to see the faces of the residents light up when they held a baby animal,” Kamesch continued. “FFA Week gives our members a chance to showcase their leadership skills by paying it forward and serving the community who supports them so well.”
Despite the age gap, LCNC residents and Marietta FFA members agree on at least one thing: a baby goat is simply irresistible.