UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. -- Two of the most historic and traditional events held by Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences take place Saturday, April 21, at the Snyder Agricultural Arena at the University Park campus.

The 89th Annual Little International livestock exhibit and the 81st Annual Penn State Dairy Exhibit will be held at 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. respectively. The “Little I” is sponsored by the Penn State Block and Bridle Club and the “Dairy Expo” is sponsored by the Penn State Dairy Science Club.

Students gain valuable experience from these events learning fitting and showmanship skills with cattle, sheep, swine and horses. With just a few weeks to prepare, contestants are judged in different categories.

Contestants randomly draw animals and then fit and train them over a three-week period, culminating in the competitive April show. Three divisions -- amateur, intermediate, and professional -- provide a level playing field for all contestants.

Ziegler Honored

During Little I/Dairy Expo weekend, John H. Ziegler, Jr., professor emeritus of food science, will be honored. He was recently named the 2007 Penn State DAS Animal Science Distinguished Alumnus. Ziegler served as a faculty member of Animal Science for 21 years and of Food Science for 12 years before his retirement in 1987. Ziegler will meet with faculty and staff, and be honored at a reception where he will receive his award. Ziegler also will be recognized at the Stockmen's Club banquet on the evening of April 20, and at the Little I on Saturday, April 21. "John has provided decades of service to the department, first as a faculty member, and since his retirement as a dedicated and tireless promoter and organizer,” says Terry Etherton, head of the Department of Dairy and Animal Science. “His efforts touch the department and the college in ways large and small, and his leadership has provided lasting benefits, setting a remarkable example of selfless service.”

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EDITORS: Contact Terry Etherton at 814-863-3665 or by e-mail at tde@psu.edu

Jeff Mulhollem/Writer-Editor 814-863-2719 jjm29@psu.edu