Mariposa FFA members continuing to advance, get hands on learning

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In their first competition of the year, the Novice Parli Pro team earned third high team at the Merced College Invitational. Pictured are Bella Martinez, Brylee Bean, Livie Twiss and Isabella Shanks. Submitted photos

In their first competition of the year, the Novice Parli Pro team earned third high team at the Merced College Invitational. Pictured are Bella Martinez, Brylee Bean, Livie Twiss and Isabella Shanks. Submitted photos

The annual Mariposa Lions Club Crab Feed is always something special for the Mariposa FFA chapter and this year was no exception.

Mariposa FFA members had the honor of serving the community, sharing conversations and giving back to the people who continually support them.

Because of the kindness and generosity shown through community tipping and the Lions Club matching those tips, the group was able to raise a little over $2,000 for the chapter.

The organization is truly grateful to be part of a community that believes in FFA, is encouraging and shows up time and time again.

Mariposa FFA thanked everyone who came out, supported and tipped so generously.

A special thank you to the Lions Club for the continued partnership and for matching the contributions.

On Jan. 5-6, students had an incredible opportunity to attend a Welding Camp hosted by the Fresno City College Welding Department.

They spent hands-on time sharpening their aluminum TIG welding skills, practicing pipe welding and diving into welding symbols and plan reading workshops.

Students had the opportunity to operate heavy machinery during a visit to Reedley College. Ben Lingenfelter is shown.

Students had the opportunity to operate heavy machinery during a visit to Reedley College. Ben Lingenfelter is shown.

Students also toured two Fresno metal fabrication facilities, SSWI and Excelsior where they saw real-world working environments firsthand.

Industry professionals shared what safety, work ethic and professionalism truly look like on the job and what employers expect from entry level welders.

It was a valuable, eye-opening experience that connected classroom learning to the industry, reinforced high standards and gave students a clear picture of the opportunities ahead. A great mix of hands-on learning, real world exposure and inspiration for the next generation of welders.

The Parli Pro teams had incredible results at the Merced College Invitational last month.

The event was the first competition of the year for the Novice team and they stepped into the room with confidence and determination.

The Advanced team is now in their second contest of the season and they’re already showing how much their hard work, practice and dedication are paying off.

The Advanced team earned first high team in Advanced Parliamentary Procedure at the Merced College Invitational. Pictured are Hailey Watson, Emily Ramsey, Celina Heard and Izzy Whited.

The Advanced team earned first high team in Advanced Parliamentary Procedure at the Merced College Invitational. Pictured are Hailey Watson, Emily Ramsey, Celina Heard and Izzy Whited.

Mariposa FFA thanked Merced College for hosting such a great contest and giving members the opportunity to compete and learn.

Awards and results include:

• Advanced Parliamentary Procedure — 1st High Team

• Celina Heard — Top Chairperson

• Novice Parliamentary Procedure — 3rd High Team

• Both teams advanced to the final rounds as part of the top six.

Mariposa FFA students from the Welding and Fabrication and Small Engines classes recently took learning beyond the classroom with a visit to Reedley College.

Students explored the Quinn CAT heavy machinery program, operated several pieces of equipment, toured the Quinn CAT facility in Selma and learned about scholarships and career pathways available if they choose to continue their education after high school.

These experiences are invaluable and provide students with information and opportunities which will benefit them now and in the future.

Carmine Sandoval is shown operating a CAT during a visit to Reedley College.

Carmine Sandoval is shown operating a CAT during a visit to Reedley College.

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