Thurston County recognizes FFA students; commissioners hear student projects and community service examples

The Thurston County Board of Commissioners heard from several Future Farmers of America (FFA) students and their adviser during the Feb. 18 public-comment period.

Geraldine Maxfield, an agricultural educator at Tenino High School, summarized FFA's history and emphasized its role in leadership and community service. Students from the Chinook, Yelm and Tenino chapters described chapter activities: a holiday house that provided gifts to nearly 199 children, food-bank and thrift-store support that raised roughly $5,000 for Yelm Community Services, veterans-day observances, tree plantings with Nisqually Land Trust, and other service projects.

Students told the board the FFA cultivates leadership and confidence; several said the program helped them gain public-speaking skills and find community. Adviser Matt Mounts and commissioners praised the chapters for community contributions and noted the recent levy failure that threatens school programs.

Commissioners thanked students and recognized members serving on county boards; no policy action followed the presentations.

Quotes from students included: "These three quality standards are growing leaders, building communities and strengthening agriculture," said Inaiaia Rodriguez, Chinook FFA chapter president. "The holiday house provided gifts to 199 children last year," said Gracelyn Sweet, describing a chapter fundraiser and distribution effort.

The board acknowledged the students' remarks and thanked FFA leaders for their volunteer work in Thurston County schools and communities.