The MV FFA held its annual Scholarship BBQ on October 18 outside the gym between 3:30 pm to 6:30 pm.
The money raised went towards scholarships for the senior FFA members.
“ We’ve been able to fund 8 to 12 scholarships each year. The scholarships are 3 different levels; Gold $1,500, Silver $1,000, and Bronze $500,” stated Mr. John Kabat, FFA advisor.
“Every year, the alumni awards between $5,000 and $10,000 in scholarships, depending on the year and number of applications,” replied Ms. Cherie Rogier, FFA advisor.
The MV FFA has been holding event for many years.
“It started in the fall of 1991, 33 years counting,” explained Morgan Payne, ‘26, MV FFA Vice President.
This event meal includes many different food items that customers look forward to every year.
“A pulled pork sandwich, corn, beans, a dessert, and a drink are all included in this meal,” said MV FFA President, Elias Mullinax, ‘25.
Many different people come together to put this meal together.
“The pork is raised on Mr. Kabat’s farm, smoked by Tony Mezo and Troy Heitmeier, and shredded by the Mt. Vernon FFA members,” said Ms. Rogier.
“Mr. Kabat donates 2 or 3 hogs to get butchered. Each year, we hold a Pork Chop where we shred all the meat to use for this event,” added Maelee Allen, former MV FFA President and current alumni.
There are many people who supply the products to make this meal possible.
“Most of the items are donated, either by individuals or local businesses, and students are given the option to donate drinks and desserts,” said Ms. Rogier.
Tickets are sold for this meal both in advance and the day of, offering customers many chances to buy the meal.
“The meal costs $12 before and $14 at the time of the event,” stated Payne.
The MV FFA plans to sell as many tickets as possible.
“So far, we’ve sold over 600 meal tickets and we usually expect anywhere between 50-100 walk-ups,” said Mullinax.
Several people volunteer their time and effort to make this meal happen.
“A good amount of volunteers for the event is 60 students or adults,” said Mr. Kabat.
“We usually have shifts that you can sign up for so even if you can’t stay the whole time, you can help out for a little bit. We can always use the extra help and it is very much appreciated,” stated Allen.
This event brings joy to the customers and people working.
“I enjoy feeding people in the community, working with the students, alumni members, and parents during this event,” said Mr. Kabat.
“My favorite part about this event is talking to the people and serving the food,” stated Payne.
