Lake Holcombe FFA is very hands-on in learning

It takes many hands to make a successful FFA program, but Lake Holcombe has a good number of students to fall back on. Members for the 2023-24 year, left to right, in front, are Ella Hartzell, Blake Winchel, Connor Kane, Kadyn Jones, Elizabeth Rutherford, Katya Kuc and Megan Paff; and adviser Kent Dorney. In back, are Brianna Bleske, Brody Miller, Tyler Hattamer, MacKenzie Bera, Abby Jones, Coral Hill, Savannah Burlingame and Annamay Kane. Missing, are Savanna Bleske and Emma Lechleitner. Submitted Photo

Althlough school wasn’t back in session, August still marked the start of the year for the Lake Holcombe FFA chpater, as students helped at the annual Fishing Has No Boundaries event, which provides an adaptive oppotunity on the water for disable anglers.

Over the summer, several FFA members also showed animals at the Rusk County Fair, including Chloe Lee, Trent Lee, Abby Jones, Annamay Kane, Tommy Kane and Ella Hartzell.

Come September, the chapter volunteered time to pick apples and pumpkins at Connell’s Family Orchard in Chippewa Falls, purchasing apples to make cider with, back in the classroom.

Then came the busy part of the year – the annual fruit fundraiser, where students sold 437 boxes to the community.

“Higher than in previous years,” said adviser Kent Dorney.

Members then were off to the Cinch Toughest Rodeo, for a day of fun, but it’s not all fun and games, as Earth Week clean-up is coming up in April, along with a food drive, dress-up days and Ag Olympic games.

Dorney also wants to change the greenhouse into an aquaponics facility, increase their maple syrup production and forestry department, as well as to have more students showing at fairs and become more a force in the community.

“Better participation and involvement from all FFA members,” said Dorney.