Governor’s Blue Ribbon Livestock Auction Committee Announces Plans for 40th Anniversary

Thursday, 08 May 2008 00:00

The Governor’s Blue Ribbon Livestock Auction (GBRLA) Committee will celebrate its’ 40th Anniversary on Wednesday, August 6, 2008 at the Wisconsin State Fair Park in West Allis. The first auction was held at the fairgrounds in 1968. Since its inception, it has become one of the most highly anticipated events of the Wisconsin State Fair.

“The GBRLA highlights Wisconsin’s livestock youth actively involved in agriculture,” said Keri Retallick, GBRLA Chair. Nearly 400 young people were recipients of proceeds from last year’s auction. Proceeds from the event contribute to the Premier Exhibitor Contest, Reserve Champion Market Animal Awards, GBRLA Scholarships, Camp of Champions and the Wisconsin Livestock Breeder’s annual Show Camp.

“In keeping with our primary objective to support education, the GBRLA will feature two Educational Banners at the 2008 auction,” said Retallick. Specific details about these new Educational Banner packages - very likely to feature sports memorabilia that will appeal to Wisconsin bidders - will be revealed at the auction. Proceeds from the packages will support the GBRLA Scholarship Fund and the Wisconsin Livestock Breeders Youth Development Education Fund/Livestock Show Camp.

An exciting addition to the 2008 Auction, are plans to accept bids on-line. “This will be a convenient way for supporters from the junior exhibitors’ home towns and all around Wisconsin to get involved, bid and join in the action,” said Stan Jones, GBRLA Marketing & Public Relations Committee Chair.

Please join Governor Jim Doyle in recognizing over 40 years of Wisconsin Agriculture history.

            4:30 pm – Selection of Grand Champions & Reception

            5:45 pm - Awards – Premier Exhibitor, Auction Scholarships, and WLBA Master Stockman Scholarships

            6:30 pm - Auction

Bob Johnson, auction committee member, will be the evening’s emcee. Along with the traditional GBRLA auctioneers, the Wisconsin Auctioneers Association’s Champion Auctioneer, chosen earlier in the day, will also assist with the auction.

For additional information on the 40th Anniversary of the Governor’s Blue Ribbon Livestock Auction, call the Wisconsin State Fair Park Youth Foundation at 414-259-4138 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .