By DOUG GRAVES Ohio Correspondent
LONDON, Ohio – The Farm Science Review (FSR) Hall of Fame recognizes individuals whose long-standing dedication and contributions have helped shape the success of this annual agricultural showcase. Established in 1990, the FSR Hall of Fame honors individuals who have made significant, lasting contributions to the event since its inception in 1963. This year, Gary Jackson, Doug Jennings and John Sites were inducted June 10 in advance of this year’s FSR. This year’s honorees represent a combined legacy of more than 120 years of support and service to the annual event. “These individuals represent decades of dedication, creativity and collaboration with Farm Science Review,” said FSR manager Nick Zachrich. “Each inductee has played a unique and vital role in shaping the show into the nationally recognized event it is today. Their passion and innovation have helped us grow, connect with more people, and advance the agricultural industry through education and partnership. We’re proud to recognize their meaningful contributions with this honor.” Gary Jackson is a familiar name with agricultural folks in Ohio, known for his work with WRFD radio, WIMA radio and ABN radio, the latter which would become Ohio Ag Net. Jackson played a critical role in expanding the reach and visibility of FSR throughout Ohio and beyond. Even after his retirement, Jackson continued to champion the show through video work with In Ohio Country Today. “Jackson’s personality and professionalism made him a go-to radio presence for multiple FSR managers across the decades,” Zachrich said. His consistent promotion of the show (before, during and after the event) earned him a respected and enduring place in the FSR community. Jennings’ connection to FSR began in 1979 as a student employee at Ohio State, earning $2.15 per hour. A native of Dresden, Ohio, and a former student at OSU’s College of Food, Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Jennings quickly became instrumental in shaping the student experience at FSR. He played a key role in raising funds to host the first student employee recognition banquet, which evolved into the FSR Student Alumni Association. Jennings remained deeply involved with the FSR alumni network and the Dale T. Friday Scholarship Fund. For more than 40 years, he has also worked with commercial and educational exhibitors at FSR, becoming a reliable source of knowledge and insight on exhibitor relations and show operations. “His decades-long dedication reflects an unmatched passion for both the event and its people,” Zachrich said. Representing Great Plains Manufacturing of Salina, Kansas, Sites has long been a standout among FSR exhibitors. His leadership and problem-solving were instrumental in the planning and construction of loading dock facilities at the showgrounds. His critical infrastructure improvements were designed to handle large agricultural equipment more safely and efficiently. Under Sites’ guidance, Great Plains became one of the first exhibitors to implement innovative practices at FSR, including the use of recycled materials to improve exhibit areas, setting a standard for creativity and sustainability. Sites also helped add to the innovation on the farm. At the Molly Caren Agricultural Center, Sites was instrumental in the introduction of vertical tillage with the Great Plains Turbo Till to provide a reduced tillage option to save time and improve conservation. “Known for his ready smile and unwavering support, Sites exemplifies the kind of exhibitor partnership that has helped FSR become one of the premier farm shows in the country,” Zachrich said.
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