The newly-formed Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) organization from Decorah High School traveled to Cedar Rapids to attend the State Leadership Conference from March 23-25. The students participated in contest events and leadership sessions. Two students placed third in the state in their events.

Brody Darling entered the Iowa Event Pride of Iowa, where contestants were required to highlight Iowa ingredients. He prepared lefse pulled pork burritos with corn slaw and au jus, winning third place. Asmere Jensen also won third place in her event, Iowa Event Food Truck. Her food truck was named Birria Bliss, and she prepared birria tacos.

Other FCCLA members who participated include Brooklyn Anderson, who participated in the Iowa Event Food Truck. She named her food truck The Somber Bayou and prepared beignets with homemade chocolate sauce. Emma Neebel and Miranda Teepe also participated in the Iowa Event Food Truck. Their truck was called Doughy Pastries, and they partnered to prepare Quarkkäulchen, a German potato and cheese pancake. 

FCCLA advisor Doreen Fullhart shared, “We went into the experience not knowing what to expect, but we came away with new knowledge, confidence, and a vision for the future. The FCCLA organization opened our eyes to many new possibilities, including scholarship and community service opportunities.”

Group FCCLA (l-r): Miranda Teepe, Emma Neebel, Brooklyn Anderson, Brody Darling, and Asmere Jensen

Asmere Jensen and Brody Darling Third Place Winners

Brooklyn Anderson The Somber Bayou FCCLA

Asmere Jensen Birria Bliss Food Truck

Emma Neebel and Miranda Teepe FCCLA

Brody Darling FCCLA Pride of Iowa