GOLDEN VALLEY — The Mohave Youth Livestock Expo (MYLE) is raising funds to construct a building to provide cover and protect kids, animals and show spectators from heat and wind. They hope to build a structure on a 20-acre site they use for livestock shows at 3372 N Bacobi Road in Golden Valley.
The non-profit organization first intended to build a fully enclosed barn to house a performance arena and other space necessary for practice and competition. The plan has been modified to construct an unenclosed structure with a roof to achieve substantial savings.
MYLE Treasurer Cassie Walker said the group thinks it can accomplish its goal for about $20,000. Anyone wanting to donate or learn more about the effort and organization can contact Walker (928-377-1331) or MYLE Secretary Dawn Barker (928-715-9523).
Walker said MYLE programs are much like 4-H, except the group is planning four livestock shows this year for additional training and education prior to the Mohave County Fair. She said involving kids with livestock helps them grow and mature as they learn about responsibility, commitment and achievement.
MYLE Vice President Shelli Whaley said the organization welcomes involvement of kids 3-20 years of age. She said as many as 400 kids, some from as far away as Utah and California, compete in the local shows.
The first of four shows scheduled each month into August is set this weekend at the C Spear Arena on the Bacobi property. Whaley said the goat show opens at 6 p.m. Friday, followed by lambs.
The rabbit show starts at 9:00 a.m. Saturday, followed by poultry. The cattle show starts at 6:00 p.m., with the swine show closing out the day.
There’s no charge for spectators as show admission is free. MYLE dedicates a substantial portion of entry fees for prizes for top finishing competitors.
“Our goal is to award our participants for their skills and strong dedication with amazing buckles and other prizes at all our events,” MYLE said on its sponsorship flyer. “It really does take the effort of an entire community to shape the future of today’s youth.”
