A Baxter couple — long known for their support of 4-H, FFA and the Jasper County Fair — has been selected as grand marshals of the upcoming Jasper County Fair parade, which is slated for 7 p.m. Monday, July 23, in Colfax.
Al and Jeanne Conover, who own and operate Conover Auction Service in Baxter, have been active in many aspects of the fair over the past 20 years. Through their company, they specialize in purebred livestock auctions and sale management with sales covering the U.S. and Canada.
The Conovers have longtime family ties to both their respective county fairs, and the Iowa State Fair. Al’s family was the first “Blue Ribbon Family” ever honored at the Iowa State Fair in 1964. Growing up, they both were active members in 4-H — Al in Ida County, Jeanne in Jasper County — and later became leaders of the Hominy Ridge 4-H Club in Baxter.
“We attribute much of our accomplishments to the values and work ethic learned in 4-H,” they said.
They also organized and conducted the livestock judging contest at the Jasper County Fair for 15 years, sponsoring awards for the event, as well. And, for the past eight years, they have offered their auctioneering and clerking services for the fair auction.
The Conovers said donating their time and services is most enjoyable because of their strong ties to the fair through the 4-H program. They said volunteers are crucial to the success of 4-H. They commend others who donate their time and talents to the program, as well.
“This is a very important time for today’s youth, and we want to make sure that we do our part to give them the opportunity and support needed to become great leaders for the future of our communities and our country,” they said. “We feel that the 4-H and FFA programs give these kids lifelong lessons and strong principles that they will not forget.”
Bob Eschliman can be contacted at (641) 792-3121 ext. 423 or via email at bschliman@newtondailynews.com.