I love Black Cherry. Mainly because of the challenges it presents. My take, 61" is short, 1.5" is narrow for this wood with a stiff handle, even at 26" draw. At those dimensions I would rawhide back it. I would not heat treat the belly. The back holding together will be your challenge with this wood, not the belly taking set. I assume you are working a stave. If possible go longer and or wider. Reverse trap or rounded belly.