by KENDALL FARRAR, Bok North FFA Reporter
Bok North FFA has had an action-packed month, filled with exciting activities, community service projects, and meaningful opportunities for students to strengthen their bonds with each other and the community.
The month kicked off with a Keep Polk County Beautiful road cleanup, where we visited the road our chapter adopted and spent the day collecting trash. The cleanup was a rewarding experience, and in the process, we even found a TV in excellent condition! This activity not only helped improve our local environment but also brought our members closer as a team.
Next, our officers participated in FFA COLT (Chapter Officer Leadership Training), where we learned valuable leadership skills and how to better serve our chapter. The event was filled with leadership sessions, hands-on crafts, and the chance to meet inspiring people from across the state. Our officers even managed to get autographs and take photos with the state FFA officers, making the day even more memorable.
Our Agriculture Literacy initiative continued with a visit to Polk Avenue Elementary School, where we shared a book on vegetable production in Florida. After a lively question-and-answer session with the fifth graders, we treated them to samples of fresh Florida-grown produce, including tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and rainbow carrots.
Following COLT, we held a Chapter Meeting, where we were thrilled to welcome state officers Gabby Howell and Tregg Aguero. Their energy and enthusiasm helped make the meeting an unforgettable experience. We turned the meeting into a fun, interactive event by making candy salad and playing musical chairs with their help. Gabby and Tregg were a huge asset, and we enjoyed spending time with them.
To recognize World Mental Health Day, our chapter launched the Wellness Warriors series with an inaugural session focusing on teen anxiety. Officers and members presented to classes at Bok North Academy, discussing the causes of anxiety, its impact on teens, and practical strategies for managing it. The series will continue monthly, addressing various topics to support the mental well-being of middle school students.
Later in the month, we hosted our annual Chili Cook-Off, where FFA students showcased their homemade chili recipes for judging by staff. Each student brought their A-game, making the event both delicious and exciting. LeeAna and Madison received the most votes for their chili, and they, along with Hiley, Lane, Brianna, and Emily, will move on to represent us at the Lake Wales FFA Alumni Chili Cook-Off on November 19, which will be followed by the annual cake and pie auction. On the same day, we held a Goat Work Day, giving students the chance to work hands-on with the goats they’ll be showing. Led by Brianna and Emily, students learned how to walk, pose, and bond with their goats, gaining confidence and valuable skills.
The following weekend, our officers and several members volunteered at the Hollie Brewer Adaptive Rodeo, a truly special event. Our chapter helped provide an inclusive experience for all participants by pairing members with buddies to guide them through their rodeo events, ensuring everyone felt welcome and had a great time.
We also brought along a variety of animals—including five goats, one cow, three rabbits, and four chickens—for a petting zoo. To enhance the experience for our buddies, we received donations of fidgets, noise-canceling headphones, and snacks. Additionally, we set up a calm-down section where participants could relax, color, and play with sensory items. It was an incredible day, and we were honored to play a part in its success.
To cap off the month, our chapter enjoyed a team bonding experience with a haunted jail tour hosted by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. It was a thrilling and fun adventure that brought our officer team closer. The day ended with a group dinner at Sonny’s, where we reflected on the fantastic month we’d had. We are grateful to Sonny’s for accommodating our large group and serving a delicious meal.
This past month has been full of meaningful activities that have brought our chapter closer together. As we look ahead, we are excited for our upcoming Fall Fest in November, where we will be assembling Thanksgiving baskets for families in need within our community. The future is bright for Bok North FFA, and we can’t wait to see what’s next!
