Source: Tricia Wiltjer, Executive Director, Michigan State Auctioneers Association

The Michigan State Auctioneers Association will celebrate 60 years of Auctioneering in Michigan at their 60th Annual Conference, January 25-28, 2011 at the Causeway Bay Hotel in Lansing.

The conference provides attendees with numerous opportunities to network with fellow auctioneers and auction firms, learn from experts, compete with your marketing designs and test your talent in the Auctioneer & Ringman Championships!

Highlights of the conference include educational seminars conducted by esteemed auction professionals ranging from online auctions and marketing to bid calling with World Champion Livestock Auctioneer, Ralph Wade. A Trade show will be featured during the conference with Auction Suppliers and Exhibitors from all over the country. A President's Banquet, Awards, Scholarships and the prostate cancer research benefit auction are also cornerstones of the conference. The most popular feature of the annual event is its competitions. Each year, the Michigan State Auctioneers Association hosts the Michigan Auctioneer Championship where dozens of skilled auctioneers participate in a lively competition for the coveted crown. In addition, attendees will enjoy the Michigan Ringman Championship.

"Many do not realize that auctions are one of the oldest professions in history. They date back to the Pilgrim's arrival on America's Eastern Shores in the 1600s." said Michigan State Auctioneers Association Executive Director, Tricia Wiltjer. "Our auctioneer and ringman competitions are open to the general public and free to attend. It's good old fashioned fun with modern flair for the whole family."

The 60th Annual Michigan State Auctioneers Association Conference runs from Tuesday, January 25th through Friday, January 28th at the Causeway Bay Hotel at 6820 S. Cedar Street in Lansing. Schedules and additional information about the conference is available by visiting http://www.findmichiganauctions.com/ or calling the MSAA headquarters at: (616) 785-8288 email: info@msaa.org.

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Established in 1951, the Michigan State Auctioneers Association is dedicated to the enhancement of Michigan's Auction Industry through education, promotion, advocacy and networking. The MSAA is the professional association for auctioneers in Michigan, continuing to be one of the leaders in the industry, and is proving to continue in that direction in the future. The Michigan State Auctioneers Association is the largest representation of auctioneers in Michigan, providing a forum for networking, sharing ideas and experiences. For more information about the Michigan State Auctioneers Association and the auction industry in Michigan, log onto http://www.findmichiganauctions.com/.com or http://msaa.org/.