Alva Review-Courier -

Geoff Clark, president and CEO of Value Added Products (VAP), welcomed guests to the Alva Chamber Community Coffee at his business Friday morning. Buttery, flaky croissants made by VAP were enjoyed by those attending.

Clark said he challenged Northwestern Oklahoma State University students to tell the story of VAP in a 60-second video and showed the professionally done result. He explained the lack of activity in the plant. The process of mixing ingredients, proofing the dough and partially baking can't be accomplished in an eight hour day. Instead employees work four 10-hour days giving them a three-day weekend. Friday is the day maintenance staff work in the plant area.

Clark encouraged groups in Alva to contact VAP when planning events. He said they provided hot-dog buns, hamburger buns and 400 chocolate chip cookies for the Friday evening meal at the Big Cruise and Car Show.

Superintendent Tim Argo spoke briefly about the beginning of the school year. He has been challenged by adding the duties of high school principal to his work load. However, he says he enjoys being in the school hallways around the students again.

On the opening day of school, he enjoyed greeting many students by name. When questioned how he knew so many of them, Argo explained they were his fourth and fifth grade students when he was principal at Lincoln Elementary.

Marione Martin

Alva High School student Lyndsie Vickers describes the theme for AHS football homecoming this year as Supt. Tim Argo listens.

Argo introduced high school student Lyndsie Vickers who talked about the AHS Homecoming on Oct. 8. As it turns out, that's the same weekend as the NWOSU Homecoming and the themes are similar. Unlike the dart board of NWOSU, she explained Alva High's "Game On" theme is based on retro video games like Pac Man. Argo said he's been trying to convince the students those games aren't retro.

Erin Davis talked about the schedule for the Northwest Mural Fest being held next weekend, Sept. 24-26, in Alva. Dr. David Pecha spoke about NWOSU Homecoming Oct. 7-9.

Alva Chamber Executive Director Jodie Bradford reminded those present that the Chamber is now emailing weekly updates on events in addition to the larger monthly newsletter. Anyone not on the email list should contact her assistant Emma Cline.

Bradford talked about all the events scheduled now through next month. She said the Chamber provided the Big Cruise and Car Show with $12,000 in Chamber Bucks to give out as prizes.

There will not be a Community Coffee in October because of fall break. They will resume in November.

See a video of the event at http://www.AlvaReviewCourier.com.