Staunton FFA cuts the cheese

On Nov. 29, 2023, the Staunton FFA joined 11 other schools in the Dairy Products CDE held at Carlinville High School.

Members participated in various activities evaluating different types of cheese, milk defects, real vs. imitation dairy products, a dairy industry general knowledge exam, and completing a California Mastitis Test on unprocessed milk.

Two freshman members, Kelsey Wempe and Codey Rhodes-Smith, found success placing second and tenth in the Greenhand division.

Although Staunton FFA didn't win the event as a whole, at the Dairy Foods CDE they learned more about the dairy industry and made lasting memories.

Michael Matesa, Staunton FFA Chapter Officer