I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend.  It was full of activities
including the State Dairy Judging CDE and the Interviews for the 2005-2006
State Officers.  We had six area meetings last week where we were able to
discuss several issues of concern.

One issue specifically discussed was FFA Membership.  For the past six
years we have seen a significant increase in FFA membership.  We still
stand on the verge of having a modest membership increase for the current
year.  Though there have been challenges throughout the year, it remains
imperative that we continue a trend of increased membership.

In addition, we were fortunate to move to 3rd position in the nation in
regards to membership.  Our friends from Oklahoma and Ohio did not
appreciate this as much as our supporters in Georgia.  Therefore, they have
been working extra hard to get back to their original position.  We
definitely do not want to slip back to 4th or 5th position.

Some teachers were confused about the fact that membership was due in April
1.  This pertains specifically to membership count to help determine 100%
membership recognition at the convention.  We have til May 15 to submit
membership to the National level for the purpose of delegate count and
national ranking.

I would strongly encourage everyone to take this week and next to make one
additional membership drive.  Also, use this as an opportunity to insure
all dues paying members are listed on your roster.

As always, it is important for our organization to maintain a positive
growth trend.    Please make sure any additional members are in the state
office no later than May 1 to allow for processing to help meet the May 15
National deadline.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.  I look forward to visiting
with each one of you this week at the State FFA Convention.

James R. Woodard
Program Manager, Agriculture Education
Georgia Department of Education
1758 Twin Towers East
Atlanta, Ga. 30334
Phone: 404-657-8312
Fax: 404-656-5911
email: [log in to unmask]