FM students place at first-ever state bid-calling event

DES MOINES – Southeast Iowa was well represented in the first-ever Iowa FFA Bid Calling Invitational State Contest, held at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in conjunction with the Iowa Beef Expo.. A total of 15 students from across the state competed in the contest, which took place at the Penningroth Sales Center.  
Asher Henson of Martinsdale, Iowa, was named Grand Champion of the inaugural event.  
Among the competitors were Fort Madison High School sophomores Rainer Johnson and Charley Huebner, both members of the Fort Madison FFA & Ag Department. After advancing to the final round, Charley placed 3rd runner-up, while Rainer placed 4th runner-up.  
The two students prepared for the competition under the mentorship of local auctioneers Corey Fraise and Terry Hoenig, who have been teaching them the auctioneer chant and helping them refine their bid-calling skills.  
Watching these students develop their auctioneering abilities and compete at this level has been incredibly rewarding,” said Fraise, past President of the Iowa Auctioneers Association and owner of Fraise Auction & Real Estate.
"They represented Southeast Iowa well, and we’re excited to see where their passion and confidence take them in the future,” he said. 
While the contest provides a foundation for students interested in the auctioneering profession, it is also an opportunity for students to step outside their comfort zones, try something new, and develop valuable skills in public speaking, competition, and self-confidence. Whether students have aspirations of becoming an auctioneer or simply want to challenge themselves in a unique way, the event encourages growth and fun in a supportive environment.  
Pictured are Charley Huebner, Rainer Johnson, Corey Fraise, and Terry Hoenig.  
The Iowa FFA State Bid Calling Invitational is a newly established event designed for FFA students in grades 8-12. Sponsorships for the contest support scholarships for the top contestants, further encouraging young talent to explore new opportunities.  
For more information about the Iowa FFA Bid Calling Invitational, contact Corey Fraise at Fraise Auction & Real Estate or visit the Iowa Auctioneers Association website.