Mariposa FFA continues to lead, excel in competitions

Mariposa FFA continues to show growth and excel as the group has had success at several competitions and events recently.

Mariposa FFA Marketing Team Takes First at MJC

The Mariposa FFA Marketing Plan Team earned first place at the Modesto Junior College Marketing Plan Contest on March 14.

The contest challenges students to create and present a full marketing strategy for an agricultural product or business, including research, branding and promotion.

Representing Mariposa FFA were Chloe King, Livie Twiss, Kaia Ramirez, Celina Heard and Maddie Cole.

The group delivered an outstanding performance to secure the win.

The team is now preparing for State Finals the first weekend of May at Cal Poly, where they hope to bring home the silver bowl.

Mariposa FFA Attends State 2026 Conference

Mariposa FFA traveled to Ontario for the 2026 State Conference with 32 members and five chaperones, creating a weekend full of growth, leadership and unforgettable memories.

Throughout the conference, members participated in workshops, sessions and activities that showcased what FFA is all about.

Several students represented the chapter on the big stage, including Emmett Wise in his proficiency interview and Maddie Cole and Paisley Allison interviewing for Premier Chapter Promotion (Star Reporter).

The chapter extends its appreciation to the state officers, staff and FFA Boosters for making the trip possible.

Mariposa FFA also thanks the community for supporting students and providing opportunities that allow members to attend events like this.

Overall, the weekend served as a powerful reminder of the impact of leadership and the opportunities within FFA, leaving members inspired to return home and continue to grow, lead and make a difference.

Mariposa FFA Members Compete for Premier Chapter Promotion (Star Reporter)

Mariposa FFA members Cole and Allison represented their chapter at the State FFA Conference, interviewing for the prestigious Premier Chapter Promotion award, also known as Star Reporter.

When Cole first stepped into her role as Chapter Reporter, she set a goal to expand Mariposa FFA’s outreach.

After discovering the Star Reporter application, she saw it as an opportunity to not only challenge herself, but to bring greater recognition and opportunities to her chapter.

Cole shared that pursuing this application would help elevate Mariposa FFA and highlight the impact of their small-town program.

Over the past year, Cole has dedicated herself to sharing her chapter’s story beyond the local level.

Through her work as an FFA in the USA Reporter, she has written articles showcasing Mariposa FFA’s achievements, events and members, reaching audiences on a broader state and national scale.

This program provides student reporters with real world experience in agricultural communications through writing, interviewing and media outreach.

Cole also shared that throughout the process, there were moments when the challenge felt overwhelming.

However, she pushed through those obstacles, growing both as a leader and communicator.

Now, she reflects on those challenges with a new perspective and hopes to use her experience to connect with and inspire others facing similar doubts.

Although Cole did not bring home the top honor, she expressed immense gratitude and pride in how far she has come.

She credited Allison for supporting her throughout the journey and helping make the experience meaningful.

Cole also extended her appreciation to her advisors, her chapter, the Mariposa community and especially her parents for their constant support.

She emphasized that these opportunities would not have been possible without those who continue to invest in and believe in her.

Looking ahead, Cole hopes her journey as Chapter Reporter will inspire other members to step outside their comfort zones, take on new opportunities and continue sharing the story of Mariposa FFA.

Mariposa FFA Member Selected for Agricultural Communications Experience

Cole of Mariposa FFA and Arianna Stone of Golden Valley FFA were selected to participate in the Merced County Farm Bureau (MCFB) Agricultural Communications Experience, a unique opportunity highlighting student excellence in agricultural communications.

As part of the experience, the two students attended the 108th Annual Merced County Farm Bureau meeting, where they captured photos, created content and engaged with attendees throughout the event.

The annual meeting brings together local farmers, ranchers, agricultural leaders and community members to reflect on the year, discuss key issues in agriculture and recognize industry impact.

Cole and Stone were chosen based on their dedication and involvement in agricultural communications within their

FFA chapters.

Their role was to document and promote the event, representing the next generation of agricultural storytellers.

This marked the first year the program was offered and both participants made a strong impression through their professionalism and ability to connect with attendees.

In recognition of their work, both students will receive an academic scholarship.

Mariposa FFA extends its appreciation to Cassandra Valdez, Membership and Communications Coordinator for the Merced County Farm Bureau, for creating and supporting this opportunity.

Community members are encouraged to view the students’ work through the Merced County Farm Bureau’s social media platforms.

Mariposa FFA excels at Regional Parli Pro Finals

Mariposa FFA delivered an outstanding performance at the Regional Parliamentary Procedure (Parli Pro) Finals, earning top placements in both Advanced and Novice divisions.

The Advanced team secured 1st place overall, led by strong performances from high chairs Celina Heard and Abby Beery.

The Novice team placed 3rd overall, with Rio Pelote earning 1st high chair and Bella Martinez placing 3rd.

Members of the Novice team included Sawyer Newsom, Isabella Shanks, Martinez, Livie Twiss, Brylee Bean, Rio Pelote and Cooper Wight.

The Advanced team consisted of Beery, Zoey Hofstee, Izzy Whited, Emily Ramsey, Heard, Hailey Watson and Cora Grasso.

Following a busy week at the State Conference, both teams demonstrated strong dedication and resilience by competing at a high level.

Mariposa FFA extends its appreciation to Merced College for hosting the event and providing a competitive environment for students to grow and succeed.

Both teams will now advance to State Finals later this month. The Mariposa FFA community wishes them the best of luck as they continue their journey.

Mariposa FFA Dinner Dance Approaches

Mariposa FFA is preparing for its highly anticipated annual Dinner Dance, with tickets now officially available for purchase at www.mariposaffaboosters.com

Don’t wait to purchase tickets, as the event is expected to sell out.

Th is year’s event will take place on April 25 at the Mariposa County Fairgrounds, featuring a prime rib dinner, hosted bar and an evening full of community, celebration and support for local agricultural education.

Doors will open at 5 p.m., with dinner beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Tickets are priced at $100 per person, with only 500 tickets available.

Community members are encouraged to purchase early, as the event is expected to sell out.

In addition to the dinner, a silent auction will be held and donations are greatly appreciated.

Contributions from local businesses and community members help make the event a success and directly support Mariposa FFA students and programs.

The Mariposa FFA Boosters Facebook page will also be sharing updates in the coming weeks, highlighting projects created by local FFA members that will be available for purchase at the event.

The dinner dance continues to be a staple tradition within the community, bringing people together to support students and celebrate the impact of agriculture.

Mariposa FFA looks forward to a successful and sold-out evening.