We previously wrote about auctioneers working together in a unique fashion at The Super Auction held in Ann Arbor, Michigan twice each year.
Auctioneers in Michigan have also utilized this type of collaboration — not only for auction events — but for auctioneer association events.
What began in 2010 in Michigan City, Indiana, as a joint summer convention for members of the Michigan State Auctioneers Association (MSAA) and Indiana Auctioneers Association (IAA) … became in 2011 the Midwest Auctioneers Roundup.
As we write this, the 2012 Midwest Auctioneers Roundup now involves auctioneer association members from the Michigan State Auctioneers Association, Indiana Auctioneers Association, Ohio Auctioneers Association and Illinois State Auctioneers Association, although the event is open to the public.
There are currently over 10,000 auctioneers combined in these four states.
This 2012 event, as was the 2011 event, is being held in Shipshewana, Indiana — a somewhat centrally located spot for these four states’ members. The Michigan State Auctioneers Association manages the event.
But, how did we get here?
Years ago many state auctioneer associations had both an annual convention and meeting, as well as a summer get-together. As those summer conventions became more expensive to host and attendance waned, auctioneer associations looked for alternatives to cancelling their summer conventions altogether.
Auctioneer association collaboration has proven to be a good solution.
This year’s event includes a cookout, golf outing, clay shoot, exhibitors, bid calling contest and fun auction. Speakers include Joseph Mast, 2011 International Auctioneer Champion – Men’s Division, Harry S. Campbell, Jack Christy and Kris Kennedy.
Over 125 are registered for this year’s Midwest Auctioneers Roundup. It would appear this event will continue to grow and become an even more valuable part of state auctioneer association membership — in the Midwest, and possibly beyond.
Mike Brandly, Auctioneer, CAI, AARE has been an auctioneer and certified appraiser for over 30 years. His company’s auctions are located at: Mike Brandly, Auctioneer, Keller Williams Auctions and Goodwill Columbus Car Auction. His Facebook page is: www.facebook.com/mbauctioneer. He is adjunct faculty at Columbus State Community College and is Executive Director of The Ohio Auction School.
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