News : VS FFA Members Shine at the Iowa State Fair

Evan Lopata shows off his Champion and Reserve Champion ribbons.

Carly Schlarbaum received a purple ribbon in her pole racing event during the Iowa State Fair FFA Horse Show.

Annabelle Newton received 1st Runner Up in the State Fair Queen Contest.

Grayce McClintock, Andrew Pingenot, and Allie Geiger paused for a photo during their free time as Ushers.

Grayce McClintock, Andrew Pingenot, and Allie Geiger paused for a photo during their free time as Ushers.

The Iowa State Fair was held in Des Moines August 11th-21st. New foods, games, and exhibiting opportunities attracted many to attend; including some of the Vinton-Shellsburg FFA members. Throughout the fair, members showed off their SAE projects, lent a helping hand whenever possible, and overall had a good time while they were at it. Many accomplishments were awarded to them as a result. We are excited to share their results.

Carly Schlarbaum exhibited her horse Kelly. She competed on Tuesday, August 9th and placed 4th in poles, missed the bucket in flags (but was moving fast!), and place 7th in barrel racing. 

Evan Lopata had an impressive day at the state fair on Thursday, August 11th. He received champion and reserve champion for the vegetables he exhibited. He also got 3rd overall for FFA Horticulture individually and for the chapter. 

Chapter President Annabelle Newton was named 1st Runner Up at the Iowa State Fair Queen Contest on Saturday, August 13th. Annabelle spent the first few days of fair interviewing with 98 other county fair queens for a finalist spot. She was supported by many family members and family friends as well as a few FFA members (Gunnar Schminke, Kaelyn Pettyjohn, and Austin Noe) who traveled on behalf of the chapter to spend a fun day at the state fair themselves.

Grayce McClintock, Andrew Pingenot, and Allie Geiger were all selected to serve as ushers at the State Fair. They got to help with all aspects of the fair and make a ton of new friends as they stayed on the fairgrounds for the entire fair. 

Amber Deklotz and Carlie Clark also spent the entire time at the fairgrounds when they served as stage attendants. They got to help with all things behind the scenes on each of the event stages so that things could run smoothly. 

Members excelled in their contests, found their fun, and made new connections and memories that will last them a lifetime during their trips to Des Moines for the Iowa State Fair. Congratulations to all on their accomplishments.