2026 Honorary Parade Marshal, Holly Keiser

 

The 75th annual Versailles Poultry Days is proud to announce that Holly Keiser will serve as the honorary Parade Marshal for the 2026 Poultry Days Grand Parade.

 

Holly is graciously supported by her husband Nick, and they are the proud parents of four children: daughters Megan Keiser, Madison Keiser, and Mallory (Andrew) Schmitt, and son Alex (Erin) Keiser. They are also the grandparents of one granddaughter, Sawyer Schmitt, with another grandchild on the way.

A lifelong supporter of the Versailles community, Holly has dedicated countless hours to local organizations. While their children were growing up, she served with the Downtown Renovation Committee, Versailles PTO, Versailles Athletic Boosters, Kinder Korner Board, Summer Swim Team Board, Girl Scout leader, CCD Teacher at St. Denis Church, and Youth Soccer as both commissioner and coach. She was awarded the Knights of Columbus Volunteer of the Year Award in 2010.

At nearly every community event in Versailles, Holly can be found working behind the scenes to ensure everything runs smoothly. She is an active member of the Versailles Alumni Association, which hosts events such as Alumni Softball, Farefest, Musicfest, and the All-Class Reunion. From the beginning stages of planning to being the last one standing, Holly willingly takes on any role needed. Most importantly, she takes pride in knowing that the funds raised through these events directly benefit Versailles students.

Continuing her service, Holly works as an educational aide at Versailles Schools and serves as the Assistant Athletic Director. Few people can turn a high school basketball game into a true community event, but Holly does just that. Alongside Scott Broerman, she helps energize the student section by distributing spirit items, serving food before games, and organizing halftime entertainment that brings fans together in support of Versailles students. Through the Athletic Department, she has also helped organize the Poultry Days 5K for the past several years.

Holly is quick to acknowledge that none of these events or accomplishments are possible alone. She is deeply grateful for the many individuals who have supported her efforts over the years and worked alongside her. Their dedication and teamwork are a true reflection of the strong sense of community found in Versailles.

Being the daughter of Jim and Dorie Baltes makes Holly no stranger to entertainment and community celebration. Jim and Dorie owned Baltes Restaurant for many years, and Jim was also a drummer in the
Jimmy Baltes Band, performing under the social tent during the Poultry Days festival. In 2010, Jim served as the Poultry Days Grand Parade Marshal. Holly is honored to follow in her father’s footsteps and to join the many distinguished individuals who have held this title.

Holly is truly honored to serve as this year’s Parade Marshal and extends her sincere gratitude to Chairman Jordan Luthman and the entire Poultry Days Committee for the time and energy they devote
to making the festival a success.

The 75th annual Versailles Poultry Days will be held on June 12, 13, and 14. With a milestone anniversary to celebrate, this year promises to be unforgettable, so be sure to watch the parade, run the
5K, and enjoy some world-famous chicken. It will be a celebration of the friendships and community spirit that make Versailles a place where “everyone knows your name”. Cheers to 75 years!