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Keep trying and keep evolving

One of the annual competitions at the Wisconsin State Fair is the Wisconsin Auctioneers Association State Championship. After three rounds of introductions, questions and actual selling, a panel of judges selected Steve Strey of Foster, Wisconsin as this year’s Champion.

This was his third year in the competition, he says he always works on his chant and rhythm. “I listen to these champion auctioneers and try to pick something out from each one that I like or that I don’t like and change my chant accordingly.”

He says the auction business has changed and evolved over the years but is still as vital as ever. While electronic auctions and online bidding have become common, the auction is as much a social event as a business transaction. He notes there are new, young auctioneers coming into the business so the future looks good for the industry.

Strey says when he first mentioned to his wife that he wanted to become an auctioneer, “She said no, I don’t think you will!” Leslie and daughter Heidi proudly stood with Steve and the trophy on the stage on Tuesday.