We made it through the first semester and are
looking forward to a new year. Esparto FFA members kicked off the beginning of the school year at the Yolo County Fair and
Greenhand Conference. In September, members prepared for the Opening Closing Contest. Student’s competed at Woodland
Community College against the Yolo Section for the Opening and Closing Contest. We did great taking home two Golds and a Silver
in the Novice Teams and placed in the Advanced contest also bringing home the Top Reporter. Three members of the exchange
student program attended the Resource Conservation Speech Contest. They had great speeches and are looking forward to competing
in the Yolo Section Speech Contest in January. In October, Ms. Smyth took four members to the National FFA Convention held
in Indianapolis, Indiana. Members attended Opening Sessions with thousands of FFA members from around the nation. In addition,
students attend the well-known Career Show and Indy 500. Students were also excited to see Purdue University, an award winning
Chocolate Factory, Colts Stadium, the RCA Dome, and take pictures with all California members in attendance. Overall, it was
a great experience for all of the members and everyone had a great time. In December, members took wooden toys to the Shriner’s
Hospital. In students woodworking classes they made wooden art boxes and the science courses helped bring in supplies to fill
the boxes before they were delivered. Before the holiday season, nine students and the advisors delivered the boxes to the
hospital and got a behind the scenes tour of the facilities. Parli-Pro and Speaking Practices (Creed, Public Speaking, Job
Interview, and Extemp) are underway. Members are looking forward to a successful season.
