Each year, kids from across the county come to show the animals that are the results of months of hard work and dedication in hopes of making the annual premium sale. This year, those that did were part of a record breaking year.
Not only did the Grand Champion steer bring a record bid of $10,500, but the buyers themselves broke a total record bidding over $259,000, according to Board of Directors member Gaylan Miller. Official totals will be available toward the end of the week.
Overall grand and reserve champions in the livestock division brought in premiums totaling $39,200, which was approximately twice as much as the previous year. Overall home economics champions brought in premium totals of $8450 for their clothing, foods and crafts projects.
Support was poured out on an exhibitor who did not have a champion, bringing in $8100 when the crowd was informed of her intentions to donate a portion of her premium to raise money for the Scottish Rite Hospital where she has been receiving treatment since she was diagnosed 5 years ago with a rare form of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Some of these funds will help the family with traveling expenses during her treatment.
Two new events were introduced this year as well, the first “Brown County Youth Fair Association Mixer,” which was a huge success with approximately 250 supporters participating, and the new show division of Ag Mechanics, which had 5 schools represented and 14 projects submitted.
Again and again spectators of the shows heard judges comments on the quality of the animals and showmanship of the participants involved.
Many thanks to the youth participants, supporters, parents, and volunteers who put forth many hours to make the 2012 Brown County Youth Fair a year to remember!
