FFA Sentinel: Something for Everyone

SHOWING APPRECIATION FOR AGRICULTURE

BY MICHAEL VANN

Dale County Agriscience Programs hosted an agricultural appreciation breakfast for farmers and local ag industries across the county to show their appreciation for agriculture. The breakfast, held at the Ozark Warehouse on February 16, 2022, was sponsored by Alabama AG Credit and First South. Visitors from across the county were greeted by FFA members, prior to breakfast. Opening ceremonies were conducted by FFA Officers from Dale County High School, George W. Long High School, South Dale Middle School, Daleville High School, and Ariton High School for all the attendees. After a delicious breakfast, catered by the Wooden Spoon from Skipperville, Alabama, members and guests heard from the guest speaker, Dr. Bob Snell.

Dr. Snell is a resident of Ozark, Alabama, and the owner and operator of Ozark Veterinary Clinic. He is a graduate of George W. Long High School and a graduate of Auburn University, where he earned his degree in Veterinary Medicine. Aside from being a full-time veterinarian, Dr. Snell also farms and raises cattle in his spare time. During his message to members and guests, Dr. Snell stressed the importance of agriculture. He emphasized how vital agriculture is to our society. One comment that Dr. Snell shared that particularly stood out was, “Agriculture is the bond that ties us all together no matter what our background may be.” If we really ponder on this statement, you realize how true it is. From the start of mankind, agriculture has been practiced by searching for food, water, shelter, and clothing which are the necessities of everyday life. For most Americans, we take these things for granted. However, they would not be possible without the advancements in agriculture that sustain us. When you think about it, agriculture connects everyone no matter how small or big the input might be. FFA members took to heart this message by realizing that agriculture is just not for a certain group of people, it includes everyone. The theme of Dr. Snell’s message was very appropriate to prepare members for kicking off FFA week as they strive to recruit members for their local chapter. Just like agriculture is everyone, so is FFA! There is more to FFA than its preconceived appearance that sometimes gets lost in translation when recruiting members. This dynamic student organization has something to offer everyone. Premier leadership, personal growth, and career success are just some of the many things that students can gain from being a part of FFA. What is special about this organization is that it means so many different things to each member. Every member has not only gained lifelong skills from this organization, but they each have helped play a role in molding FFA into what it is today. An organization that can be everything to everyone, no matter where you live or come from. There is room at the table for all and plenty for everyone to take part of, just like the delicious breakfast that was served!

Dr Bob Snell, guest speaker, delivers his message to members and guests attending the Dale County Agricultural Appreciation Breakfast sponsored by Alabama Ag Credit and First South!

FFA members and guests stand to participate in the blessing lead by Karleigh Gibbons of the Dale County FFA Chapter

FFA members and guests stand to participate in the blessing lead by Karleigh Gibbons of the Dale County FFA Chapter

FFA Members from Dale County High School, George W Long High School, South Dale Middle School, Daleville High School, and Ariton High School standing to recite “Why are we here” portion of the FFA opening ceremonies.

Logan Bush from the Ariton FFA Chapter is preparing to lead the crowd in the Pledge of Allegiance.