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The Grand Marshals for the 2024 Colorado County Fair Parade are Leroy and Tina Stavinoha of Eagle Lake, Texas.
The Stavinoha’s volunteer involvement with the Colorado County Fair began over 32 years ago, when Leroy joined Rice CISD as an Ag Science Teacher.
Leroy spent many hours on the grounds before, during and after the Fair creating a great show experience for the county’s youth. He was instrumental in growing the livestock judging contest to be one of the largest in the area during that period of time.
Leroy was also a member of the committee who established the Ag Complex and was involved in planning and securing the pens for the livestock barn.
Tina grew up in Colorado County and competed at the fair as a youth exhibitor. When Leroy got involved, she also began to volunteer.
Tina worked alongside her mother, Sharon Grahmann, often helping her to announce the livestock show. Eventually, her mother retired from that job, and it was passed along to her.
COLORADO COUNTY FAIR
Tina and Leroy have served as committee members and chairs for the steer, commercial heifer, and Pen of 2 committees over the years and have passed on the value of service and volunteerism to their children, Amelia, and Robert. Both children served on the Junior Fair Board throughout high school, and both were President their senior year.
Amelia and Robert had great success with their hog and cattle projects at the fair, and both were recipients of a Colorado County Fair Scholarship.
Leroy and Tina also give financially as well, having purchased livestock projects for the last 30 years.
When asked why they continue to serve, the Stavinoha’s say “it is all about giving back to the kids. A county fair project starts way before the show. It teaches life skills that prepare our youth to serve their community and navigate life. It is worth the time and investment.”
