SYRACUSE – The New York State Fair Talent Showcase came to a conclusion on Monday, Sept. 6, after eight days of daily competitions, a semi finals round, and the finals. Overall, there were 342 contestants and 179 acts in the mini division, which is comprised of youths 12 and under. At its conclusion, four Chenango County youths found themselves at the top of the podium.

Twelve year old Kaitlyn Jackson, from Norwich, took first place in singing and 2nd place overall with her original song “Crush,” Kaitlyn wrote this song, as well as thirteen others while on a recent trip to Nashville earlier this summer. Kaitlyn was awarded $400 for her winning performance.

Kaitlyn was also in a dance trio with good friends and dance partners, Brooke Brown, South New Berlin and Jackie Murrer, Oxford. Arianne LoGerfo and Tara Franklin choreographed the partnering/modern trio for the girls entitled “Bond.” They took 2nd place in dance and 3rd place overall and were awarded $300 in prize money. The girls dance at Amber Perkins School of the Arts.

Also making the top 25 and competing in the finals was Norwich resident, Corey Huggins. He played “Welcome to the Jungle” on his electric guitar.

Congratulations to Chenango County’s very talented young stars. If anyone would like to compete in next year’s New York State Fair Talent Showcase, you may qualify at Chenango County Fair’s Talent Competition in August.