Chinook FFA Recruits New Members

On Sunday, September 8, the Chinook FFA Chapter hosted its annual FFA Recruitment Barbecue at the shooting range south of Chinook. The occasion featured a meal, presentations by officers, and a clay pigeon shoot. With ten new members joining the FFA chapter, the event was considered a success.

According to Chapter Reporter, Bryce Elliot, "The many new FFA members recruited are crucial for our chapter's growth."

Having been established in 1930, the Chinook Chapter is approaching its 100th anniversary. With that milestone looming, the membership reflected on the fact that many of the current officers and members will not be with the chapter in 2030. To ensure the life of the FFA Chapter, each year, the group holds activities like the Recruitment Barbecue to showcase the numerous opportunities in agriculture that youth can pursue through learning and participating in FFA competitions.

"Our goal is to build a larger and stronger community of agriculturists within the chapter. We owe our success to the support of the community through various fundraisers held throughout the year," Elliot stated.

As Chapter Adviser, Mitzi Cecrle reflected on Sunday's events, she stated, "Our turn out was good, but we would like to see more parents and community members attend as we would like to have a community-FFA Alumni connection built with the FFA members."

Cecrle added that "the Officer Team put on a wonderful BBQ. The Rod and Gun Club has been so helpful and beneficial to the success of the purpose of the Recruitment Barbeque, especially Joe Kennedy."

Some of the highlights for the day included the FFA members versus the adults who reported for the trap shoot. The FFA members challenge the adults to match skills, and for two years in a row Julian Powell has captured the title. The Recruitment Barbeque also provides the opportunity for new members to meet everyone, to connect with community members and supporters of the FFA, and to register as FFA members.