2 local FFA students stand out at state convention

Photo by Tom Rivers

MEDINA – Two local FFA students – Jayne Bannister, left, of Albion and Jack Hill of Medina – were recognized during the FFA State Convention today in Medina.

Jack, a Medina eighth-grader, won first place in the state for reciting and delivering the FFA junior creed. That qualifies him to compete in the National Convention in Louisville, Kentucky in October.

Jack was judged on his accuracy and mannerisms in delivering the creed. Judges then asked follow-up questions.

Jack said he loves FFA and the agriculture community.

“I’m in love with tractors and farming in general,” he said. “I’ve grown up loving anything with an engine in it.”

Jayne Bannister, a junior at Albion, was elected president of District 9 for the FFA. That includes chapters in Albion, Medina, the Genesee Valley Educational Partnership, Letchworth, Pioneer and two new chapters at Barker and Roy-Hart.

Jayne will connect with the local chapters, sharing leadership development programs and other FFA initiatives. She also was recently picked as the Niagara-Orleans dairy princess.

Jayne said she will use the roles to help educate the public about agriculture.

“There is a misunderstanding about what agriculture is with the general public,” she said. “We need to bridge that gap.”

After high school, she plans to major in animal science with a minor in education. She said she may pursue being an agricultural teacher. She also would be happy returning to her family’s beef and fruit farm at Point Breeze.