Alva Review-Courier -

Cherokee FFA and the officer team have had a memorable and exciting summer. Several of the chapters members have been busy with various activities throughout the summer. Drake Williams, an eighth grader, attended a cattle show clinic, and freshman Blake Failes attended a sheep show clinic. Chapter President Jarrett James attended Washington Leadership Conference in June. Spending a week at our nation's capitol, he attended leadership workshops and public demonstrations, packaged meals for 60,000 people, and took various tours around the capitol. Kael Tucker and Ty Hellar both attended Alumni Camp at Camp Tulakogee.

Cherokee FFA officers are (left to right) Matt Lancaster, Blake Failes, Beth Lancaster, Sydney Wyatt, Jarrett James and Kael Tucker.

Also this summer the officer team participated in their annual officer retreat. Officers traveled to Angel Fire, New Mexico, where they enjoyed many outdoor recreational activities, including mountain tubing, zip-lining, hiking, horseback riding and a cowboy evening. Besides enjoying these activities, officers planned the chapter's year-long calendar and goals. After returning home the team felt their experiences brought them closer together and they are excited for the upcoming year.

Since school has started, we've had a back to school bash. All Cherokee FFA members were invited to attend. We had a bonfire from limbs that had fallen down during the last winter's ice storm. Members roasted hot dogs, enjoyed s'mores, and played kickball. We were fortunate that the Cherokee Fire Department was able to make it out to assist if needed. New members got to mingle and meet the officers and upperclassmen. It was a great way to start off the year and fun was had by all.