Bob Johnson of Milton, President of the newly formed Blue Ribbon Sale of Champions Foundation (BRSCF), has helped develop the management and administration of the Governor’s Blue Ribbon Livestock Auction and says change is needed.   The nine member board brings consists of President, Bob Johnson, Milton WI; Vice-President, Keri Retallick, Glen Haven, WI; Secretary, John Alf, Edgerton, WI; Treasurer, Jarred Searls, Cobb, WI; and Members: Leah Mindemann, Oconomowoc, WI; Representative Scott Gunderson, Waterford, WI; Mary Henke, Milwaukee, WI; Nate Weinkauf, Waterford, WI; and Duane Bunting, Dousman, WI.

 

During an interview with Pam Jahnke of the Wisconsin Farm Report, Johnson said that they may have taken some buyers for granted in the past - and that attitude, coupled with a struggling economy - has led to lower buyer attendance and declining purchase prices.  You can hear all of the conversation with Bob Johnson and Pam Jahnke here.

 

Johnson says the group has selected a new theme for this years sale, and will be including UW components to try and liven things up! “In our quest to make this year’s auction the best ever, we have invited Bucky Badger, the UW Marching Band and several UW Athletic celebrities to add to the excitement on Wednesday, August 11, 2010. Auction guests will be treated to a Red & White tailgate reception as we celebrate with Wisconsin Youth at the 2010 Governor’s Red, White & Blue Ribbon Livestock Auction” according to Johnson.

 

He says “the new committee’s goal is to bring back previous sponsors as well as find new individuals and businesses that are willing to support Wisconsin’s 4H and FFA youth and the Agriculture Industry.  We have gone above and beyond to make this a great experience for the benefit of all participants and sponsors. Willing sponsors, bidders and buyers will generate the enthusiasm for a successful event.” 

 

Over 600 Wisconsin State Fair Junior Exhibitors, compete with their swine, sheep and beef market animals for a coveted spot in the auction. Junior Fair Exhibitors who win an auction spot are honored to sell their animals with proceeds going to the exhibitor as well as the annual youth scholarship fund.

 

In addition to buying champion livestock, bidders will have the opportunity to out do one another on unique Badger auction items presented by Bucky. All buyers and sellers will receive a commemorative photo with Governor Doyle.

 

Tickets to the event are priced at $30.00. Advance ticket purchases will include a Wisconsin State Fair admission ticket.