“It’s Show Time” at the Governor’s Ham Breakfast

(SEDALIA, Mo.) – Elected officials and agricultural leaders filled the Director’s Tent at the Missouri State Fair on Governor’s, Legislators’ and Judges’ Day for the annual Governor’s Ham Breakfast.

Governor Matt Blunt spoke to the Missouri agriculture leaders and state officials, following the national anthem, sung by Sara Craven, the 2006 Missouri State Fair Idol. FFA and 4-H members were present to lead the assembly in the Pledge of Allegiance and then an invocation. This event was proudly hosted by the Missouri State Fair Foundation.

“Many outstanding agriculture leaders were present, representing all facets of Missouri’s thriving agriculture industries,” said Marion Lucas, Missouri State Fair Director.

Former state representative Charles Nordwald auctioned the champion animals following Gov. Blunt’s speech. The auction began with the 2007 Missouri State Fair Grand Champion Ham, exhibited by Logan Cary of Houston, Mo. It was purchased by Murphy Brothers Exposition and Ditzfeld Transfer for $5,000.

The Grand Champion Bacon was exhibited by Alewel’s Country Meats of Warrensburg, Mo. It was purchased by American Compressed Steel and Ditzfeld Transfer for $2,000.

The Reserve Grand Champion Ham was exhibited by Russellville Locker of Russellville, Mo. It was purchased by Starline, Inc, represented by Fair Commission member Barbara Hayden, for $3,500. The ham was donated to the 4-H Foundation.

The limited edition gold commemorative Missouri State Fair belt buckle was sold for $2,000 to Aquila.

The Missouri State Fair Foundation Souvenir Basket was sold for $500 to Starline, Inc. After purchasing the basket, it was presented to William Branch Blunt, the son of Gov. Blunt.

The Missouri State Fair Foundation supports youth projects for those involved in 4-H and FFA through proceeds funded from the auction. The commemorative items auctioned at the ham breakfast were sold to fund the foundation’s efforts in preserving, improving and perpetuating the rich heritage of the Missouri State Fair for future generations.

The fair continues until the 19 of August with Kansas City Day on the 17, Youth in Agriculture Day on the 18, and the Fair Finale on the 19, with half price admission, food, and select carnival rides. Log on to www.mostatefair.com or call (800) 422-FAIR (3247) for more information on all the exciting events happening where “It’s Show Time!”