STAGE IS SET FOR STATE'S SECOND ANNUAL LIVESTOCK EXPOSITION

HARRINGTON, DE - October 10, 2006

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Harrington will be abuzz this weekend as spectators and exhibitors travel to the Delaware State Fair. As the cars and livestock trailers head to the fairgrounds, one may wonder, “Is it July already? Has the Fair returned?” Well, you wouldn’t be exactly wrong, but to precise, it’s the return of the second annual Delaware Livestock Exposition.

The Delaware Livestock Exposition, to be held October 14 and 15, is a one-of-a-kind event in the “First State”. Open to exhibitors from across the country, it's a junior breeding show for beef cattle, sheep, swine, and meat goats with premiums to be paid to the top-placing animals in each class. Exhibitors from across the mid-Atlantic region, have registered to compete. The Exposition is sponsored by The Delaware Department of Agriculture, Michael T. Scuse, Secretary; The State of Delaware, Ruth Ann Minner, Governor; and Delaware State Fair, Inc., William J. DiMondi, President.

According to Secretary Scuse, “Last year’s show was the start of a wonderful tradition in Delaware agriculture. Governor Minner and I are once again proud to be major sponsors and would like to thank all of the committee members and volunteers who have dedicated their time and energy toward making sure the Expo is a success.” The Secretary also added the Expo is a unique opportunity for Delaware’s agriculturally-focused youth to showcase their talents, in competition, with other exhibitors from across our nation.

The majority of financial support for the Expo is being provided by the three major sponsors; however, funds were also raised during a benefit dinner and auction held in March.

According to the Expo’s co-Chairman Bruce Betts, “Due to the support of our sponsors and everyone who attended and participated at the dinner/auction, we’re offering increased premiums and several special awards.” Betts also added that the Expo has seen a 25% increase in registration over 2005 which should also carryover to an increase in spectators.

The Expo is free to all spectators. Shows will begin each day at 9:00 a.m. in the Kent Building and Schabinger Pavilion on the fairgrounds. Goats and swine will be shown on Saturday, October 14, and sheep and beef will be shown on Sunday, October 15.

For additional details about the Expo, please visit www.state.de.us/deptagri for details.###

Media Contact:

Bruce Betts
(302) 242-6131 cell