Five members of the Atlantic FFA chapter made the trip to the state capitol on Tuesday, Jan. 28. Juniors Taylor McCreedy, Craig Alan Becker, and Alyssa Derby, as well as seniors Tate Den Beste and Corri Pelzer were joined with an estimated 560 other Iowa FFA members in Tuesday’s event. Eighty-seven schools sent student representatives to Des Moines.

The goal of the 35th Annual Iowa FFA Legislative Symposium and FFA Day at the Capitol was to build character and promote citizenship amongst the students in blue. The members got the chance to talk with legislators. 

Throughout the day, the students listened to three different speakers. First up was Iowa Farm Bureau Federation President, Craig Hill. He spoke about the important roles young agriculturalists play in the agriculture industry. Following Hill’s presentation, Iowa Deputy Secretary of Agriculture, Julie Kenny, took the floor. She informed students on the pressing matter of agriculture both in the state, in the country, and around the world. The final speaker was Kelsey Tyrrell of the World Food Prize. She talked about the significance of Iowa’s ag industry, as well as the roles students can play both now, and in the future, in regards to statewide issues.

Governor Kim Reynolds presented and signed a proclamation stating Saturday, Feb. 22 to Saturday, Feb. 29 is FFA Week in Iowa.

McCreedy was glad she attended the event held at the capitol. “I thought it was a lot of fun, and it was a good opportunity for kids to meet with state representatives,” she said.

On Wednesday, Jan. 29, District Review night was held. Three Atlantic FFA members earned their Iowa Degrees, which is the highest honor an FFA member can receive. Pelzer, Den Beste, and senior Adriana Mendez were awarded. 

Also, McCreedy advanced to State in the Horse Entrepreneurship Proficiency Award, aftering earning first place. Junior Gunner Kirchoff placed third in the Ag Mechanics Proficiency Award.

The FFA chapter is hosting the Winter Formal dance on Saturday, Feb. 1.