Churchill County FFA state winner Ally Fay rehearses for nationals before school board

Ally Fay, the Churchill County FFA president, presented her state-winning Prepared Speaking leadership speech to the Churchill County School District Board of Trustees and asked the board to critique it ahead of the National FFA Convention.

Fay outlined concerns about food labeling and the rising popularity of farm-to-market producers. She cited USDA research showing organic retail sales have averaged growth in recent years and argued that while locally produced foods can offer clearer ingredient information, higher retail costs and inconsistent labeling for terms such as “natural” can limit access.

Trustees and school leaders asked Fay why the commercial food industry uses additives and how the district should balance consumer safety and access. Fay responded that marketing to children and cost pressures drive some product formulations, and that policy and innovation — including land access and farming methods — will be needed to make some healthier options more affordable.

Board members praised Fay’s presentation and asked questions about specifics in her speech. The board thanked her for preparing and wished her luck at the national competition.