By Samantha Grody, FFA reporter

Amidst a crazy driver, an early morning, and catching up on homework, the Cedar Springs FFA Chapter traveled an hour and a half to Lansing on Wednesday, March 10 for the annual Michigan FFA State Convention.

Over the next three days, six high school students enjoyed the opportunity to see and meet hundreds of dedicated Agriculture students and teachers. Among these students were the 16 competing candidates for this year’s State Officer Team. After many speeches and questions, Cedar Springs high school students Samantha Grody and Hanna Johnson joined other delegates from across the state in voting in the twelve FFA officers that would decide the fate of more than 100 FFA chapters over the next year.

After the announcement of this devoted team, sixty-four State FFA Band members celebrated the occasion with several amazing performances, ending traditionally with the Michigan State Fight Song. Two of our very own Cedar Springs High School Band members partook in this concert: sophomore Brent Willett and junior Amber Terhaar. Another hometown sophomore, Kayli DeCanter, joined veteran Shauna Smith as a Courtesy Corp. These young ladies got to know the Michigan State University Campus well, as they directed members to meetings and guarded the doors of closed sessions.

These six privileged members hope to attend a National FFA Convention in October. However, with cost per person averaging $350, this may not be an option. So if you see any blue corduroy jackets selling cookies at your doorstep, remember the amazing dedication these members show to their organization and to the future of America.