“In times like these ,when we worry about kids dropping out of school and getting into trouble, 4-H and FFA work earnestly with kids to build strong skills in self-sufficiency, character, and a desire to either go on to college or a job,” Pamela says.

The women of My Fair Ladies come from around the state and each member commits to spending from $250 to $1,000. The group, which had 24 participants last year, is easily visible during the auction due to their unifying outfits—teal shirts with pink lettering, pink bandanas, and bolos, depending on the level of contribution. Members can also pool their funds together. The Ladies spent at least $15,000 at the 2006 auction, Pamela says, and last year’s members included Dorothy Rainosek of Frontier and Golden Pride Restaurants, Nedra Matteucci of Matteucci Galleries, Debbi Moore of the Rio Rancho Chamber of Commerce, and Dianne Chalmers. Many women, however, Pamela says, are from lesser-known businesses, who just wish to help a good cause.

“These are small business owners who are quietly supporting these kids and making a difference,” Pamela says.

Marketing Director of Expo NM and member of My Fair Ladies Kathy Duffy says NMJLA has been associated with the State Fair for as long as anyone can remember, and she compares it to state sports championships. Kathy joined My Fair Ladies when Pamela first created the group.

“It’s a very practical learning process,” Kathy says of raising animals, pointing out that children learn lessons in responsibility, grooming, competition, and even death.

Once an animal is sold, the buyer has several options. The buyer can slaughter the animal for personal use, donate the meat, sell the animal to a meat packer, or take the animal home. Charities that buyers have previously donated meat to include The New Mexico Boys and Girls Ranches, Inc., Casa Angelica, and All Faiths Receiving Home.

Among the livestock purchased at auction last year, Don Chalmers Ford bid highest for a Grand Champion Steer at $39,000. The NMJLA raised a total of $448,373 in 2006, according to its Web site.

“You have never given to a charity like this before,” Pamela says, noting how often she and the other Ladies receive cards or even visits from the children. “They (the children) want so badly to earn the money they’ve worked for.”

About 100 children participated last year to sell nearly 130 animals. The NMJLA is moderated by the New Mexico Junior Livestock Foundation. Don Chalmers Ford is also represented on the foundation’s volunteer board by John Fife. This year’s livestock auction will take place at noon on Friday, Sept. 14 in the Beef Barn at the state fairgrounds.

Monika studies print journalism and French at the University of New Mexico. She was born in Albuquerque but her family is originally from Poland, and Polish is still the main language at home. She studied at the Université de Savoie in Chambéry, France and loves to travel.