FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 1, 2024
Editors Note: Photo Attached
PA Pork Producers Council Celebrates National Pork Month
In celebration of National Pork Month, PA Pork had an action-packed October filled with events that brought together pork producers, consumers, and enthusiasts. From football festivities to BBQ competitions and educational seminars, these events showcased the importance of pork in Pennsylvania’s agricultural industry and beyond.
Raise a Rib Football Game – September 28, 2024
National Pork Month kicked off with the exciting Raise a Rib campaign at Penn State University’s September 28th home football game. Held during the pre-game tailgate party, eight teams competed in a lively pork cookoff. Fans were met during the half time show with words from our board President, Ben Barcovtch. During the half-time show they also introduced the winner, M.A.D. BBQ, from Elizabethtown, PA.
Keystone Classic BBQ State Championship – October 5, 2024
The Keystone Classic BBQ State Championship saw some of the best BBQ teams in Pennsylvania and beyond, competing for the top prize in the pork division. Held at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg, this event drew BBQ enthusiasts from across the state. The pork division winner, Ain’t That Rich, impressed the judges with their masterful preparation.
Bill Even, CEO of the National Pork Board, Visits Pennsylvania- October 17, 2024
PA Pork was honored to host Bill Even, CEO of the National Pork Board, for a visit to Pennsylvania. During his time in the state, Even toured local pork operations, met with Pennsylvania industry leaders, and attended the PPPC board meeting. His visit highlighted the continued partnership between Pennsylvania’s pork producers and the National Pork Board, strengthening the commitment to animal care, environmental stewardship, and innovation in the pork industry.
Pork 101 at Penn State – October 29-31, 2024
Capping off National Pork Month was Pork 101, a three-day educational event hosted by Penn State Extension at Penn State Universities Meat’s Lab. Held on October 29-31, this intensive seminar brought together interested individuals to explore key topics in pork production, meat science, and marketing. Pork 101 offers a unique hands-on experience, providing attendees with insights into producing and promoting high-quality pork products while enhancing their knowledge of the industry. PA Pork offered six scholarship opportunities for industry professionals and producers to attend this unique event.
As National Pork Month concludes, PA Pork is proud to celebrate the dedication of Pennsylvania’s pork producers and the delicious, high-quality pork they provide. These events serve as a testament to the significant role pork plays in our state’s economy and food culture.
For more information on the PA Pork Producers Council and how to get involved, please contact Courtney Gray, cgray@papork.com or visit www.whypapork.com.
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The Pennsylvania Pork Producers Council (PPPC) administers the Pork Checkoff on behalf of the state’s nearly 3,000 pig farmers. PPPC acts as a steward for Pork Checkoff funds at the state level and is charged with executing specific programs in the areas of promotion, research and education. No funds may be used for lobbying or to influence government policy. Checkoff-funded promotions are designed to increase domestic pork sales through consumer, retail and food service outreach. Additionally, Checkoff-funded research is administered in all areas of pork production, processing and human nutrition to develop a higher quality, more profitable and innovative product in the competitive meat protein market.
