Montezuma girl finishes runner up at the 2022 National Junior Miss United States Agriculture Pageant

Alyssa Latcham, National Junior Miss United States Agriculture runner up.

By J.O. Parker
 
     Alyssa Latcham, 11, of rural Montezuma was named second runner up at the 2022 National Junior Miss United States Agriculture Pageant. She also received most photogenic and best formalwear honors at the pageant, which was held June 24 – 25 at the Avanti Palms Resort in Orlando, Fla.
       Alyssa is the daughter of Curtis and Amanda Latcham. She represented the State of Iowa in her age class at the pageant.
       Alyssa participated in different areas of competition at the pageant including an interview, photogenic, on stage introduction, fun fashion, impromptu question, and formal wear.
      As part of Alyssa’s fun fashion event, she wore a homemade sheep suit she and her mom made from yarn from pom poms.
      “The outfit had to be something that represents her state,” said her mom, Amanda.
      Iowa is ranked number 10 in sheep production in the United States.
    Alyssa shows sheep in open shows throughout Iowa, which takes a lot of dedication. One sheep can produce 10 miles of yarn with just one pound of its wool. The dress consists of one mile of yarn.
    “During the on stage introduction, Alyssa got a chance to talk about her platform, which is farm safety,” said Amanda. “Farm safety is very important to Alyssa, as she stated, ‘Things can happen very quickly, so you should always be careful.’”
     Alyssa has been around farming her entire life. Amanda said she’s actually a 6th generation farmer.
     “This has been a great experience for Alyssa as she has completely come out of her shell and is more outgoing.”
    Amanda said she and Curtis are quite proud of their daughter for stepping out of her comfort zone and trying something new.
   Alyssa will continue to reign as the Iowa Junior Miss United States Agriculture until November when she will crown her successor.
     “I had a great time and I am happy with how I did and happy for the new friends I made at the pageant,” said Alyssa.
    “We would also like to thank the community and all of her sponsors that have helped her along the way,” Amanda said. “The support from the area has been amazing.”