Purdy FFA hosts annual Barnwarming and Chili Cook-Off

The 2017 Purdy High School Barnwarming Royalty Court, from left: Freshmen Clay Henderson and Kinsley Mattingly; Sophomores Shelby Haskins and Andrew Martinez; Juniors Mason Schallert and Shelby Heston; and the 2017 Barnwarming King and Queen, Seniors Kyle Billingsley and Savannah Bradt.

World Famous Rodeo Announcer Mason Brewer, atop his trusty steed, Rango, pauses for a photo at right as Barnwarming King Kyle Billingsley and Purdy FFA President Mikey Schad observe.

October 11, 2017
          The Purdy FFA Chapter hosted its annual Chapter Barnwarming on Friday, October 6. Purdy FFA members, students and members of our community filled the gym for a night of fun, food, and games.
          This year’s theme was based on the song “Rodeo”, performed by the country legend Garth Brooks. FFA members and others provided decorative items, such as cowboy hats, spurs, boots, and roping dummies.
          The Purdy FFA Alumni hosted its annual chili cook off and apple pie and ice cream contest. Ted Abramovitz won prizes for both Knock-Your-Socks-Off Chili and Best All Around Chili. Purdy FFA Vice President Cailyn Spears took top honors in the apple pie and ice cream competitions.
          Following the meal, “Rodeo” emcees Mason Brewer and Mikey Schad introduced the 2017 Purdy High School Barnwarming royalty candidates. Our candidates included Freshmen: Clay Henderson and Kinsley Mattingly; Sophomores: Andrew Martinez and Shelby Haskins; Juniors: Mason Schallert and Shelby Heston and Seniors: Kyle Billingsley and Savannah Bradt.
          Candidates competed in a variety of farm-style games, planned by the Purdy FFA officers, including Stick Horse Races, Wheelbarrow Races, Dress the Bunny, and Corn Pile. Seniors Savannah Bradt and Kyle Billingsley were named our 2017 Barnwarming king and queen. A dance was held following the coronation.
          Purdy High School senior Gavin Upchurch noted of the event, “It was a much different experience than our past years of Barnwarming. This year seemed very well executed, and our chapter came together as a whole to make it happen. I am eager to see what our FFA has in store in years to come.”