Local FFA chapter ends busy year

On May 6 and 7, the Carter County FFA Chapter traveled to Great Falls to compete in the Montana CDE Days competition held at the MSU Great Falls campus. Members had a whirlwind of two days jam-packed with competitions and late nights.

Gracie Tooke, Hannah LaBree, Heather LaBree and Jaelee Strangford spearheaded the Ag Communications team, and came out with great success. The team placed second overall. Individual placings for the team were: Hannah LaBree, 7th; Gracie Tooke, 8th; Heather LaBree, 11th; Jaelee Strangford, 13th.

The CCHS Chapter was also represented in the Food Science CDE, a team that consisted of Jaelee Strangford, Darin Schallenberger and Katie Tooke. Darin Schallenberger placed 35th, Jaelee Strangford 46th and Katie Tooke 66th.

The food science team placed 15th overall. That same afternoon, Gracie Tooke, Hannah LaBree, Heather LaBree and Heidi LaBree competed in the Veterinary Science CDE. The girls were well prepared, having utilized the merchandise at the North 40 Ag Supply store for a last-minute practice session. Hannah LaBree took 14th, Gracie Tooke 22nd, Heather LaBree 23rd and Heidi LaBree took 51st.

Mr. Whitney endured a long bus ride home, and driving a bus full of tired girls doesn't make the trip any easier! However, the very next day officer interviews were held, and then the local chapter banquet took place on May 10.

The banquet had an excellent turnout, and Mrs. Amy Walker delivered again with an excellent meal. Wally Badgett, creator of the Rachin' With Earl cartoons and the current head coach of the Miles City Community College rodeo team, offered some laughs and some words of inspiration for all.

Later that evening, the hired hand auction was held and two lucky people got to take home gallon bags of Mrs. Walker's pulled pork and a pan of cheesy hashbrowns. Carter County FFA members are thankful to everyone for their support throughout the year!