MACON, Ga. – Winners of the Fruit Production Proficiency were recognized at the 95^th Georgia FFA State Convention held at the Macon Centreplex on April 27-29, 2023. 

James Miles III of Appling County placed first in the proficiency competition. Placing second was Grady McBryant of Wilcox County, and Mallory South of Upson Lee received third place. 

Proficiency awards are granted to FFA members who have excelled in their Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE). The Fruit Crop Production Proficiency provides students with opportunities to participate in activities to produce and market fruit crops.

The Fruit Crop Production Proficiency was sponsored at the state level by Sutherland’s Foodservice, Inc. & Georgia Fruit & Vegetable Growers Association. 

All proficiency winners received a plaque and a cash award. State winners receive $100, as well as $500 travel money to attend the National FFA Convention. Additionally, the advisor of the state winner also received $100 cash. Second place winners received $50, and third place winners received $25. 

The National FFA Organization, formerly known as the Future Farmers of America, changed its name in 1988 to reflect the growth and diversity of agriculture. There are nearly 860,000 FFA members nationwide. The Georgia Association has more than 80,000 members, making it the third largest Association in the nation. The FFA makes a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success, through agricultural education. 

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