99th Little 'I' harvests successful event
This year marked the 99th Little International, which took place Feb. 15 at Shepperd Arena. The theme for the 99th Little “I” was “Growing Dreams, Harvesting Success.” We were grateful to have nearly 200 students showing, curing a ham, public speaking or participating as committee chairs or members.
This year we were able to bring back an old tradition -- lamb lead. The lamb lead contest had seven contestants who each represented a student organization. They were judged on their knowledge of the wool industry and the wool-based outfit they put together. Our champion lamb lead contestant was Garrett Kuhn representing student government.
The 99th Little International overall showman was AJ Heins of New Salem, N.D., and the reserve overall showman was Kasi Holm of Ashley, N.D. The champion ham was cured by John O'Neill of Fargo. The winner of the public speaking contest was Kalista Bormann of Madison, Minn., while the sweepstakes champion was Kasi Holm.
Dr. Gerald Stokka was honored as the 99th Little International Agriculturist of the Year. Stokka has devoted his life to veterinary medicine and livestock stewardship. Stokka was a great honoree that our members can strive to emulate, and we were pleased to have him join the Hall of Fame in the foyer of Shepperd Arena.
The Little “I” Management Team was manager Kiley Kvamme of Kindred, N.D., and assistant manager Taiton Axtman of Fargo. The Little “I” royalty were queen Jolie Sanders of New Salem, N.D., and princesses Madison Mertens of Berlin, Wis., and Caryn Marty of Chokio, Minn.
Congratulations to all contestants, committee chairs and members for hosting another successful Little International!
--- Kiley Kvamme
Linnea Axtman (left) and Emma Aberle show their goats at the 99th Little International.
Maddy Scott drives her pig in the Crossbred Barrow 2 class.
Maggie Wertish is swept off her feet by fellow emcee Dawsyn Malkowski as they close out the 99th Little “I” show.
