at Pike Fairgrounds

By JAINE TREADWELL

Features Editor

March 1, 2000 10 PM

The Pike County Cattlemen’s annual Steer and Heifer Show will be held Saturday at the Pike County Fairgrounds.

Cattleman B.B. Palmer said everyone is invited to support the youths who are culminating months of long hours and hard work by showing their animals.

"The young people got started with their steers and heifers back in July and August and they have put in a lot of hours working with their animals," Palmer said. "They would appreciate having a large crowd when they walk in the arena."

Between eight and 10 youths will compete for prizes and trophies in showmanship and livestock with the top prizes going to the Grand Champion and Reserve Champion steers.

The Steer and Heifer Show is an annual event for the Cattlemen’s Association.

"The steer and heifer programs teach the boys and girls discipline as they work getting the animal ready to show," Palmer said. "They have to keep accurate and up-to-date records of the daily rate of gain. They spend a lot of time with their animal and they learn a lot from the experience."

A hamburger supper will be served at 5 p.m. followed by the show at 6 p.m.

"Anyone who wants to come out and eat a hamburger with us is welcome," Palmer said. "Then, we hope everyone will stay around for the show. It’s entertaining and it will mean a lot to the kids."

The participants will have an opportunity to enter the state steer show in Montgomery later in the month and several will, Palmer said.

The locally-bred animals will be sold on the meat market and are expected to bring a good price.

"The quality of livestock that you’ll see at the show is very good," Palmer said. "All of the young people who participate in the steer and heifer programs do an outstanding job."