Central's FFA charter to host fruit, vegetable sale

The Central (Burlington) FFA, which was charted in 2008, currently has more than 110 students enrolled in agricultural education classes at Central High School in Burlington.

The classes offered include veterinary science, biotechnology, alternative energy, plant and animal science, environmental science, and agricultural science. Agriculture education students and FFA members have the unique opportunity to take the knowledge learned in the classroom and apply it, competitively, in more than 40-plus career development events in the FFA.

Some of these contests include public speaking, horse judging, horticulture, veterinary science, and more. In the short history of the chapter, it has had multiple top 10 finishes in state competitions and, in 2013, was state champion in horse judging and finished seventh in the nation.

Another opportunity for FFA members is the ability to attend multiple leadership conferences held at the state and national level every year. While at these conferences, students learn about positive leadership, teamwork, communication, community service, and taking action.

Some conferences include: Washington Leadership Conference in Washington, D.C., Illinois Leadership Camp, and the Elite Conference.

Each year, the alumni chapter provides financial support to the organization so that members have the opportunity to attend these various events, as well as providing scholarships for graduating seniors.

Community members can help by visiting Klein's Farm & Garden Market, 38W718 Plank Road in Elgin, Saturday, May 24. Part of the proceeds will go directly to the Central FFA. For information about the plant and vegetable sale, call Ryan Robinson at (847) 464-6030.

The National FFA Organization, formerly known as the Future Farmers of America, changed to its present name in 1988 in recognition of the growth and diversity of agriculture and agricultural education.

FFA is a national youth organization of 579,269 student members - all preparing for leadership and careers in the science, business and technology of agriculture as part of more than 7,570 local FFA chapters in all 50 states, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.

Its mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. Visit www.ffa.org for information.