By MICHELLE ADAMS/Community columnist

Future Farmers of America will host their 10th annual Keith Adair Memorial Farm Day at Montevallo High School Friday, March 14 and Saturday, March 15.

Friday’s event provides tours to Montevallo Elementary students and children from local preschools. FFA members serve as tour guides directing children through the farm animal petting and observation station and then onto skits and entertainment, educating children on agricultural history and the importance of farming.

“We help the younger students experience hands-on interaction with agriculture,” said FFA President Meredith Goggins, a junior. “We hope to educate and inspire these young minds who may have never had such experiences at home. We are hoping to implant the “blue jacket” in their minds, so they will one day be FFA members themselves.”

Saturday’s Farm Day is open to the public, beginning with the tractor parade down Main Street at 9 a.m. Numerous vendors will be present to showcase their businesses, as well as demonstrations in woodworking and metalworking. Entertainment will include the Doug Morris Band, an acoustic set by Dallas Perry and Mary Howard will perform songs from her Main Street Players performance in “Always, Patsy Cline.”

“This year’s Farm Day is intended to be larger than last year’s,” said FFA Vice President Seth Hawks, a senior. “With more vendors and more entertainment, we provide a setting for the community to get together and enjoy all things agriculturally related that we share.”

MHS Agricultural Science teacher and FFA sponsor Blake Ray aims for Farm Day to create an awareness and appreciation for agriculture’s relevance in our area.

“Amidst the vast urbanization of our county lies family ties to agricultural commodities such as cattle, soybeans, corn, cotton and ornamental crops,” Ray said. “Vendors from equipment companies, agricultural sales and production, and student organizations will represent these commodities well. Our student leadership in FFA have dedicated much time to coordinating Farm Day. Each of the students has partnered with an adult on the Montevallo FFA Alumni Board to plan for each aspect of the event.”

Although admission to Farm Day is free, all proceeds from the silent auction, sales and concessions will go toward scholarships for MHS seniors attending college who have been active in the FFA chapter.

 

EVENT DETAILS

What: Keith Adair Memorial Farm Day

When: March 14-15

Where: Montevallo High School, 980 Oak Street, Montevallo

Admission: Free