Tina and Leroy Stavinoha
COLUMBUS — The grand marshals for the 2024 Colorado County Fair Parade are Leroy and Tina Stavinoha of Eagle Lake. 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 working to create a great show experience for the youth of the county. He was instrumental in growing the livestock judging contest to be one of the largest in the area at that time. He was also a member of the committee that established the ag complex and was involved in planning and securing the pens for the livestock barn.
Tina grew up in Colorado County, so she had the opportunity to compete at the fair as a youth exhibitor. When Leroy got involved, she also began to volunteer. She 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.
The Stavinoha’s have served as committee members and chairs for the steer, commercial heifer, and pen-of-two committees over the years and have passed on the value of service and volunteerism to their children, Amelia and Robert. Leroy and Tina also give financially as well, having pur chased livestock projects for the last 30 years. When asked why they continue to serve, they 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!”
