FFA SENTINEL

ENTERPRISE FFA GETS HANDS-ON

BY SAVANNAH NOWELL

In the "small" town of Enterprise, Alabama, a hidden gem lies in the form of Enterprise High School, a place of learning and growth for over 2,000 students. In such a diverse student body, it is essential to offer unique opportunities that can capture the interests of these young minds. Among the thirty student organizations available, the Enterprise FFA (Future Farmers of America) stands out as a beacon of hands-on experiences and community engagement.

Enterprise FFA is not just any Career and Technical Student Organization (CTSO); it's a conduit for students to bridge the gap between the classroom and the real world. Each year, this chapter actively participates in a range of service projects within the local community. One of the highlights of our annual calendar is our partnership with the Coffee County Cattlemen's Association. In the fall, our FFA members eagerly volunteer to assist in hosting the association's annual steer and heifer show. This event is not just about observing cattle; our students actively check in animals and exhibitors, prepare lunches, and even assist in the award ceremonies. It's a genuine handson experience that not only deepens their understanding of the agricultural world but also instills a sense of community service.

The Enterprise FFA also plays a significant role in the Farm City Petting Zoo, Farm City Banquet, and the annual Cattlemen's Dinner. Engaging in these events allows our students to forge connections within the community and explore the diverse sectors of the local agriculture industry.

Enterprise FFA members at South district eliminations. Members have the choice to compete in a CDE or LDE event, or they may volunteer to help lead testing groups and prepare lunches for competitors.

While community engagement is a cornerstone of our chapter, the learning doesn't stop outside of school. Our dedicated advisors, Alexis Dunn and Grant Griffin, continually brainstorm ways to introduce our students to industry professionals. Over the years, our students have had the privilege of listening to guest speakers from various sectors, including Coffee County Extension, Alabama Fish and Wildlife Officers, and the Enterprise Police Department. These interactions provide students with invaluable insights into potential career paths and the workings of their community.

Over the summer, the Enterprise FFA chapter received gold for its National Chapter Award! This award is based on our program of activities throughout the year. The application then was judged at the national level and received two stars.

Last year, our chapter experienced a tremendous surge of success, with numerous accolades and accomplishments. Rachel Lee, an 11th-grade student, was appointed as the Alabama South District Reporter, a testament to the leadership and potential nurtured within our FFA ranks. The chapter itself received a gold rating for the National Chapter Award and is set to receive two-star recognition at the upcoming FFA National Convention at the end of October, a significant achievement. Grace Treglia, class of 2022, received first place in the state with her Ag Processing Proficiency Award in beekeeping and was awarded silver at the National level.

Grace Treglia with her first place banner she received for her ag processing proficiency. Grace processes the honey her bees make to sell and make soap.

Moreover, our chapter proudly hosted the South District Spring Eliminations contest, welcoming over 1,000 students from South Alabama into our school. This contest showcased the hard work and dedication of our FFA members, with five teams competing and two students engaging in Leadership Development Events (LDEs). An impressive three of our teams secured a spot at the state level competition held last June, further demonstrating the caliber of talent nurtured within our FFA chapter.

In October 2022, the Enterprise FFA chapter members were asked to help kindergarten students by leading groups to stations and by educating them on the animals at the Coffee County Farm City Petting Zoo.

The Enterprise FFA stands as a testament to the power of community engagement, learning by doing, and the incredible potential of our students. With passionate advisors, a thriving chapter, and the unwavering support of the Enterprise community, the FFA continues to empower students, fostering future leaders and agriculture enthusiasts. This is a testament to the rich tapestry of opportunities that Enterprise High School offers to its diverse student body.

Officer Lindley is guiding two students through a sobriety test while wearing drunk goggles.