Pickett is National FFA Finalist

         INDIANAPOLIS, md. The national FFA organization announced that Matthew Pickett of Morrow, La. has been selected as a national finalist for the National FFA Proficiency Award in the area. Pickett is one of only four people chosen to compete for this award at the national finals to be held this November during the National FFA Convention in Kansas City, Mo. The award recognizes outstanding student achievement in agribusiness gained through establishment of a new business, working for an existing company or otherwise gaining hands-on career experience. The Fiber Crop Production - Entrepreneurship! Placement Award is one of 42 proficiency program areas FFA members can participate in to develop valuable experience and leadership skills at the local, state and national levels. Pickett, a member of the North Central FFA Chapter, became eligible for the national award after winning the Louisiana state FFA competition earlier this year. Hals Beard is the advisor.
        This award is sponsored by Griffin Corporation; Cotton Grower; National FFA Foundation General Fund as a special project of the National FFA Foundation. In recognition of being a finalist, each of the four finalists will receive a plaque and $250. The national winner of the Fiber Crop Production -Entrepreneurship/PlacementAward will receive an additional $250 during a special ceremony at the convention.
        FFA is a national organization of 449,814 members preparing for leadership and careers in the science, business and technology of agricultuiše. Local, state and national programs provide opportunities for students to apply knowledge and skills learned in the classroom. The organization has 7,241 local chapters located throughout the United States, Puerto Rico, Guam and the Virgin Islands. FFAšs mission is to make a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. National FFA Online, www.ffa.org, FFAs internet web site, can provide information about the National FFA. Mathew's parents are Thomas and Katherine Pickett.