By By ZURI KELVER / Niles Daily Star
CASSOPOLIS – There was much to celebrate at the recent Cassopolis Board of Education meeting.
It was standing room only in the library of Ross Beatty High School as several dozen community members came out to enjoy cake and punch and celebrate a select group of students who have worked hard and won big.
The Cassopolis chapter of the FFA brought a home a state championship for the Parliamentary Procedure competition.
The team's coach, Bill Butcher, addressed those in attendance with the pride and fervor of a dedicated leader, saying, "This team can compete with the best in the United States."
They will get that opportunity come October. The win at state guarantees the team a spot to compete at the national level.
On Oct. 22-24 the Michigan state champions go up against 43 of the nation's top FFA programs in Indianapolis.
Competing at such a high level has the potential to shake the most solid competitors, but this team has experience and each other on which to rely.
Chapter member Ryan Stover said they have developed the necessary teamwork and communication skills that are crucial for succeeding at the highest levels of FFA competition.