Natchitoches parish was well represented at the 97^th state Future Farmers of America (FFA) convention in Alexandria by a group of sharp young people from Lakeview and NCHS’ FFA chapters. The convention featured 1,400 FFA members from 217 chapters located at high schools throughout the state.

The convention takes place from Monday, June 1 to Thursday June 4, during which time the FFA members will compete in various agricultural areas as well as public speaking. FFA is also notable in that the convention, and indeed the program, is student run. The FFA is not just for agricultural education, it provides hands on training in leadership and organization. Those blue jackets are more than a tradition. They are a symbol of excellence.