By Lauren P. Burrows, Contributing Writer

Another Osceola County Fair has come and gone, but for those who won big at the February 18 Open Market & Market Steer Show, the thrill of fair time will last just a little longer than usual.

After eight classes were presented, the evening’s winners lined up with their steers for the selection of the Grand and Reserve Champions. “You’re all winners,” the judge reminded them.  He told the participants to thank their families for their support and to work to keep the friendships they make during fair activities.

Then came the moment the crowd had been waiting for all night.  After studying all the steers and analyzing them from every angle, the judge made his decision.

9 year old Allison Moore and her steer “Buddy” won the coveted Grand Champion ribbon, and Keenan Schmidt’s steer “Archie” won the title of Reserve Champion.

“I was very excited,” Schmidt later said of the moment it was announced that he had won Reserve.  “I didn’t expect to… I was very shocked.”

Two days later, students gathered again at the KVLS Arena, but for a different purpose - it was the night of the Market Steer Sale.

Moore was the first to auction off her steer, and it was sold for $5.50 per pound.  C&I Family Farms of Indiana and Wolf Irrigation & Landscape purchased the animal.

Schmidt’s steer sold for $3.25 per pound, and it was purchased by the Bronson partnership.  Schmidt said he was satisfied overall with the sale price.  “I did very well considering the economy,” said Schmidt, 16.  “I have nothing to complain about.”

Schmidt suggested that the steer project needs more promotion before each fair in order to draw more buyers.  However, he had nothing but gratitude for those who bought his steer.  “Thank you very much,” Schmidt said.  He said Bronson “makes a big difference in the program.”

St. Cloud In The News would like to congratulate Moore, Schmidt and the other winners of the 2010 Fair.

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