Members of the Hopkins chapter of the FFA brought home plenty of hardware after the organization’s state convention at Michigan State University Thursday and Friday.

Bailey Couch was named the state champion in the Greenhand Speaker contest. Lexie Wilson was state winner in the Environmental Science and Natural Resources proficiency.

The Hopkins Demonstration Team, with Stephanie Harvey, Katrina Tucker and Madison Ellis, “gave an amazing presentation on the main stage of the Wharton Center and was named the state runner-up,” reported Hopkins FFA Advisor Jessica Couch.

Caleb Tucker placed eighth in Junior High Speaking. Jessica placed third in Creed Speaking.

Wilson and Caitlin Rodanhisler were presented with their state FFA degrees.

The Hopkins Color Guard presented the

lags on the main stage and Laura Velderman played “Taps” on the trumpet.

An added thrill was that the guest speaker and presenter of the Alumni Award was Dr. Henry Reinart, veterinarian at Pickle Street in Monterey Township. Katrina Tucker was the Region I recipient.

The Hopkins chapter also had the honor of being recognized as one of the top three in the nation chapter award and received the honor of being named state runner-up.

COVER PHOTO: Hopkins FFA Advisor Jessica Couch and daughter Bailey, state champion in Greenhand Speaking.