Governor Jennifer M. Granholm and Michigan Department of Agriculture (MDA) Director Mitch Irwin today encouraged top bids for prize livestock, raised by 4-H and FFA members across the state, that will be placed on the auction block at the Michigan State Fair’s annual Youth Livestock Auction on Wednesday, Aug. 17. Both Granholm and Irwin will serve as bid “spotters” on the auction floor.

“This is a great opportunity for our young State Fair participants to raise money for college and other needs, as well as generating a tremendous sense of accomplishment and pride in their hard work,” Irwin said. “I encourage Michigan businesses and individuals to support these youth by again offering generous bids during this year’s auction.”

According to Irwin, the event will take place immediately following the annual Governor’s Luncheon, which is scheduled to begin at Noon. The Luncheon and Auction will be held in the area between the Agriculture Building and the Coliseum on the State Fairgrounds in Detroit.

The auction will feature steers, hogs and lambs, including those receiving the Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion honors. In addition, attendees may bid on the “Best of Class” Michigan wines and the Grand Champion Cheese, Best Butter and Champion Gallon of Milk.

Buyers of the Grand Champion and Reserve Grand Champion animals will have an opportunity to meet Governor Granholm and have their names prominently displayed for more than 400,000 fairgoers to view during the duration of the State Fair.

Top 2004 corporate and private bidders included: Farmer Jack, which purchased the Grand Champion market steer, exhibited by Sarah Williams of Clifford, for $46,000 (new state fair record) and the Grand Champion market lamb, exhibited by Jacob Patterson of Lapeer, for $27,000 (new state fair record). The Kroger Company, which purchased the Grand Champion market hog, exhibited by Nichol Braden of Byron, for $14,000.

In 2000, a sales cap was implemented with the proceeds going toward educational awards and scholarships. As a result of record-breaking sales, the Michigan Youth Livestock Scholarship fund will award seven $1,000 scholarships and $21,000 in educational awards to this year’s youth livestock exhibitors.

Businesses or individuals wanting more information, or wishing to participate in the Youth Livestock Auction, may contact MDA’s Jeff Haarer at 517/241-2865.

The Michigan State Fair is the nation’s first fair and runs from Wednesday, Aug. 10 through Sunday, Aug. 21. It is located at the corner of Eight Mile Road and Woodward Avenue in Detroit. For more information on the 2005 Michigan State Fair, including a complete listing of fair events, visit www.michiganstatefair.com.