The 2020 Corona Classic Youth Livestock Sale held on August 22nd was a stellar success. Not only was it the first time this year that Spokane area youth had the opportunity to live show and auction their personally raised livestock, but how this event became a reality is itself an amazing success story.

Thirty youth exhibitors aged 8 – 18 years from Spokane County and surrounding areas arrived early morning with their livestock to, the site of this year’s event. After checking in with the veterinarian and getting in place, the market evaluation started with the exhibitors showing their lambs and goats, beef and swine. Grand and reserve titles were given, with the grand winner receiving a large camp chair embossed with their class category. 

When the auction began, the bidders did not disappoint. Applause and enthusiasm overflowed when, once the price bid was set, most of the bidders then increased their bid amounts  generously. “The youth have been able to participate only in virtual auctions this year. Here, at a live auction, they are able to make much more money,” said Erica Whitmore of Deer Park Future Farmers of America (FFA). Some of the youth began their animal husbandry skills as early as age 2. The exhibitors all raised their breed from birth, committed to daily feeding, exercise, and any other care needed to produce the fine livestock seen at the auction.

With the Clayton Fair being cancelled, this year’s event was a real highlight in a rather dark year, and it never would have been possible without the efforts and contributions of scores of volunteers. Speaking to the crowd, Doug Knight, of Knight Construction explained the string of coincidences, cooperative work, and the relentless determination of many to get approval from the Governor’s office for the event. “Not taking no for an answer…they got this done!” he said. And indeed they did! News of the auction’s approval came on August 10th, and from that moment on, scores of volunteers went into high gear.

The 2020 Corona Classic Youth Livestock Sale was about something more than just a youth livestock sale. It was the people themselves – the sponsors, volunteers, exhibitors, and bidders – who were the “something more”. And that something more made all the difference. 

Congratulations to the exhibitors and to all who made the event a reality.

Sources:

FB.me/DPFFABoosters

Photos By: Joanne Darassi

Featured Image Caption: Left to Right – Porter Whitmore, Kaili Levasseur, Erica Whitmore, Samantha Fausti, and Nevaeh Mobley