Members of the Marion-Florence FFA Chapter traveled to Louisville, Kentucky, to attend the 88th National FFA Convention from Oct. 28 to 31. More than 65,000 students, parents, and advisors attended the annual convention.  

The theme for the convention was “Amplify.” Members watched at convention sessions as awards were presented to national winners, listened to retiring addresses from national FFA officers, and heard key-note addresses from Dr. Rick Rigsby and Brad Montague, creator of the famous Internet character “Kid President.”

Members also were able to view exhibits and visit with potential employers and colleges at the FFA Exposition, which featured more than 300 exhibitors.

Aidan Cairns participated in National FFA Band during the convention.  Cairns was the only FFA member from Kansas who was accepted into the band and spent the week prior to convention practicing with other members from all over the nation.

The band performed several times during the convention, including a special concert Oct. 30.  They also had a couple of performances in downtown Louisville during the convention.

FFA members from Marion toured the Louisville Slugger factory and museum as well as Churchill Downs. They also spent time at the Kentucky Derby Museum to learn more about the history of the Kentucky Derby and the other racing events that are hosted there.

Members from the chapter attending included Kayle Stapleford, Carley Stapleford, Allison Hett, Aidan Cairns and Devin Soyez. Mark Meyer, Salem Cairns, and Andrea Mattas served as sponsors for the trip.  

Aaron Molleker, Clint Kroupa, and Nicholas Meyer traveled separately to receive their American FFA Degrees in a special ceremony Oct. 31.