Planning

Every chapter banquet is unique. Here, members share their priorities for planning and executing a memorable end-of-the-year event. 1. List your non-negotiables. “This is the time to make a list of the things you cannot do without,” says Joelle Grubbs of the West Central Valley FFA Chapter in Iowa. “Things you'll definitely want to include are going through all the awards and honors received by the chapter or members, the retiring address and year-in-review moments. Making a list will allow you to keep your banquet organized and under control. It also keeps you from leaving anyone or anything out!” 2. Make some memories. “Chapter banquets are usually the last event that senior FFA members get to attend, and we want to make sure that it is memorable,” says Brodee McCormick of the Athens FFA Chapter in Illinois. “We like to thank the seniors one last time with a retiring jacket ceremony. We recognize how much work they have done and how big of an impact they left on the chapter and its members.” 3. Add a service [...]