May/June 2019 Volume 51 No.3

YOU EITHER LOVE IT, OR YOU ARE WRONG

2019 World Pork Expo Cancelled (Details on page 7)

Calendar of Events May 2019 9 Board of Directors Meeting, Lincoln 16 Taste of Elegance NEBRASKA PORK PRODUCERS ASSOCIATION 29-31 Makin’ Bacon…and a Whole Lot More, Lincoln Board of Directors Ron Browning Fremont (402) 753-3255 June 2019 Shana Beattie Sumner (308) 325-1278 28 Pork Chop Scramble, Quarry Oaks, Tim Chancellor Broken Bow (308) 872-2020 Ashland John Csukker Shelby (402) 910-1892 Jared Lierman Beemer (402) 750-1596 July 2019 Connor Livingston Fairbury (402) 300-0240 14-17 National Pork Industry Conference Michael Luckey Columbus (402) 910-3121 (Wisconsin Dells) Matt Marquardt Tekamah (402) 870-0600 Duane Miller Davenport (402) 364-3619 August 2019 Kevin Peterson Osceola (402) 366-1362 16 NPPA VIP Event Ali Prochaska David City (402) 826-7491 (Lincoln Saltdogs Baseball Game) Paul Segner Friend (402) 947-1195 23-31 Nebraska State Fair, Grand Island Stuart Spader Waco (402) 363-3172 Mike Wisnieski Omaha (402) 548-5761 September 2019 ALTERNATE DIRECTORS 1-2 Nebraska State Fair, Grand Island Chad Johnson (1st Alternate) Norfolk (507) 920-0457 10-12 Spring LAC, Washington, D.C. Mark Wright (2nd Alternate) Fremont (402) 719-7526 Executive Committee For more information on any of these scheduled events call 888-627-7675 or www.nepork.org President, Tim Chancellor Broken Bow (308) 872-2020 President Elect, John Csukker Shelby (402) 910-1892 Vice President, Shana Beattie Sumner (308) 325-1278 Past President, Darin Uhlir St. Paul (308) 754-4243

NPPA Office [email protected] (888) 627-7675 Executive Director Al Juhnke (531) 500-2786 Domestic Marketing Director Jane Stone (402) 525-1525 Producer Information Director Dee Petersen (531) 500-2763 Nebraska Pork Talk is published bi-monthly by the Nebraska Pork Producers Association, Inc. (NPPA) to a circulation of approximately Youth Education Director Kyla Habrock (531) 500-3423 4,900, including all identified Nebraska pork producers and a variety Allied Industry Services Director Sandra Kavan (531) 500-3505 of industry supporters. All editorial and advertisements are screened along rigid standards, National Pork Producers Council (515) 278-8012 but the publisher assumes no responsibility for accuracy or validity of claims, nor guarantees the absence of errors or omissions; all Pork Checkoff Service Center— rights are reserved. Editorial and advertising information is due in National Pork Board (800) 456-7675 the NPPA office by the first of the month preceding the publication. NPPA has the right to accept or deny any submissions. All inquiries and address corrections should be directed to the Nebraska Pork Producers Association. Nebraska Pork Producers Association 4435 O Street, Suite 200 Lincoln, NE 68510 Phone: (888) 627-7675 Fax: (531) 500-5005 Email: [email protected] www.NEpork.org

Portions of Nebraska Pork Talk are partially funded by Nebraska pork producers and their checkoff investments.

2 Nebraska Pork Talk – May/June 2019 888-627-7675

National Pork Board’s Trailer to the Rescue

PPA was grateful to have the National As cleanup continues from this historic NPork Board’s marketing trailer in Nebraska devastation, let us know of any communities on March 23 and 24 to help feed victims and you are aware of that could benefit from a volunteers of the recent flooding. The trailer made pork trailer event. Please contact Jane Stone at stops in North Bend and in Columbus, where 402.525.1525 or [email protected]. We’d love NPPA teamed up with the Nebraska Farm Bureau. to come help!

Bill Luckey persuades Nebraska Perfectly grilled boneless Pork producers at the ready in North Bend. John Csukker brings Cattlemen President Mike Drinnin pork loins. Yum! From left, Russ Vering, John Csukker, Ali Prochaska, the humor in Columbus. to give pork loin a try. Nate Prochaska, Aaron Kavan, Terry O’Neel, and Diane O’Neel.

“Team Pork” in North Bend. Glad to be of help if just for a day.

www.NEpork.org Nebraska Pork Talk – May/June 2019 3 Pork Leadership Program Concludes 2018 Seminar Series

Senator Blood testified before the Agriculture Committee on LB 594 . By Brad Garrison for various farms. SMS also provides training in Our first stop on Day One, February 19, of our the areas of TQA® and PQA® Plus. Both of these sixth and final seminar was Nutrient Advisors in trainings are required for individuals and teams that West Point. Nutrient Advisors is a company that provide day-to-day care and move animals. SMS helps reduce the risk to producers and farmers does farm analysis for over 450,000 sows in four through environmental compliance of manure and different countries, including the U.S., Canada, the waste water. Andy Scholting of Nutrient Advisors Philippines and Australia. They work with 26 different explained that enforcement is always intensifying companies and their programs. SMS then extracts from the EPA in compliance and regulations. He also the data and implants it into their own programs to explained Nutrient Advisors functions like a CPA. assist producers. Those reports are generated from They have the right product in the right place at the farm reports for weekly and monthly analysis. SMS right rate and right also helps producers time. This gives the with benchmarking producers and farmers their sow heads. the peace of mind to SMS started in make sure they are 2005 with the always in compliance. benchmarking side Between 2008 and of their business. 2012 producers and Their farm sizes farmers started getting for benchmarking Staff with Nutrient Advisors shared valuable information about serious about manure issues related to environmental compliance and services they offer range from 125 to application due to the to support pork producers in Nebraska. 10,000 sows. They skyrocketing cost of are currently serving nitrogen. Nutrient Advisors also helps producers 890 farms with 1.5 million sows that represent 16 with soil sampling and ground water monitoring. This different genetic companies. As you can see, SMS was a great day spent with great people and a great is a very diverse company that is always looking out company. Thanks again to Nutrient Advisors for a for the producer’s best option. Our time there was great learning session about important topics. interesting and educational learning about the many The second stop of the day was at Swine services SMS offers. Thank you to Mark and Ron Management Services in Fremont. Swine for a great couple of hours learning more about Management Services was established in 1994, and your business. was purchased in 2002 by Ron Ketchem and Mark Our third and final stop of the day was at the Rix. SMS has a variety of services that they offer to office of Dr. Benny Mote. Dr. Mote is an instructor their clientele. They help manage data processing for and UNL extension educator specializing in swine. over 45,000 sows a week. They do many farm visits Dr. Mote discussed several different topics and for production-related training of team members projects that he and undergraduate and graduate

4 Nebraska Pork Talk – May/June 2019 888-627-7675 students are currently working on. One of the could have to producers. One of the last topics we projects they are currently studying is genetic covered with Amelia was how to accommodate projects outside of current production traits. foreign customers on trade missions. These foreign Some of the projects include: PRRS; PEDv; trade discussions and missions are always looking PCVZ; Genetic Defects; Mulberry Heart; Scrotal for the best of Nebraska to help promote our Ruptures; Structure of Animals; Boar Taint; IMF/ agriculture product. The trade missions promote all Eating Quality; and Boar Fertility. of the products available for trade that Nebraskans Some of the early studies with gilts have shown produce daily. This was another great opportunity that gilts housed in group pens had poorer foot for all of us to learn more about our state’s health than those housed in stalls. Thank you, Department of Agriculture. Thanks again, Amelia, Dr. Mote, for your expert knowledge and studies for sharing your knowledge. to help us all improve. The last stop of our last seminar was with newly Day Two of our sixth seminar started out with elected Nebraska Secretary of State Robert B. breakfast with Al Juhnke, executive director of Evnen. What a great experience for all of us to learn the Nebraska Pork Producers Association. After some history of the Capitol Building and some meeting with Al, who is a registered lobbyist with knowledge of what duties the Secretary of State the Nebraska Legislature advocating for the pork in Nebraska has. The Secretary of State’s duties industry, we were able to sit in the gallery of the include: promotion of international trade; Keeper legislature to listen to a bill being debated. After of the seal of Nebraska; Chief Election Officer to listening for about 45 minutes we were fortunate ensure fair elections; Chair of the real estate board; to be able to have individual meetings with our and member of the Pardons Board. While visiting legislators from our district. We were able to express Mr. Evnen, we also had the pleasure of meeting concerns about the pork industry that are hot topics Assistant Secretary of State Cindi Allen, and concerning Nebraska producers. After meeting with Angel Velitchkov, who provides counsel for our legislators we sat in on an Agriculture Committee international trade. meeting about LB594, which is a bill introduced by THANK YOU to all the pork producers in Senator Blood about plant-based protein. The pork, Nebraska that make the Pork Leadership Program a beef, and poultry producers are fighting to keep the possibility. This was a wonderful opportunity term “meat” for all. Nothing is possible without all of your efforts. off plant-based proteins. These are not meat Please applaud yourselves for being good stewards products and we believe that the product should not of the land and great caretakers of the animals! be allowed to incorporate meat into its marketing and labeling. Al testified on behalf of Nebraska’s Pork Leadership Program participants Brad Garrison and Ryan Hynek enjoyed conversations with Senator Tom Brandt, pork producers. Many of us in the group had never District 32, and his legislative staff member. experienced this type of activity at the legislature, but it was a great and powerful experience all around. After lunch at Billy’s Restaurant we ventured to the Nebraska Department of Agriculture and met with Amelia Breinig, the assistant director for the department. Amelia gave us a brief overview of the department. We also discussed the Livestock Siting Assessment Matrix and how to achieve getting more livestock-friendly counties. We discussed the impact that financial cuts to the Department of Ag www.NEpork.org Nebraska Pork Talk – May/June 2019 5 NPPA’s 2019 Pork Leadership Program Holds First Seminar By Zach Lubeck, Purchasing Director, Kyla Habrock running through the goals and Quality Pork International, Inc. expectations of the 2019 Pork Leadership Program. Pork Leadership Program participants and leaders Included in this session were future date planning, held the opening meeting of the 2019 series of personal and professional goal discussion, and general seminars March 27 in Kearney information about the NPPA. at Angus Burgers and Shakes to Josh from Team Concepts informally introduce ourselves then finished his program by over a meal. helping us to identify our own Then, our team meet with leadership qualities and how we Josh Erickson and Hannah can use those to positively interact Zundel (Pork Leadership with others on both a group and Program alumna) at Team individual level. Concepts in Kearney. The The team then traveled to the Nebraska Pork Producers training session focused on Jennifer Osterholt encourages participants in classroom work centered on the Pork Leadership Program to engage with Association's main office in theoretical leadership and group consumers online in a positive way. Lincoln to listen to presentations dynamics principles. Josh led the by NPPA Executive Director Al sessions with a combination of Juhnke, and Jennifer Osterholt, lectures, icebreaking activities, publisher of PlowingThroughLife. and interactive demonstrations com. Al Juhnke gave a general on how to identify a variety of presentation about NPPA including personality types and how to the organization’s history, current best work with those personality event topics related to pork, and types in a multitude of settings. his opinion on why NPPA and its The information was simple, yet Leadership Program are important heavily applicable in all personal Josh Erickson explains how leaders can manage to the pork industry. Jennifer the engagement cycle. and professional situations. Osterholt then gave a presentation The team then concluded the day by dining at Sozo on the opportunities and weaknesses on various social as a group and reviewing the program from the day. media platforms. This was a unique way to focus on On March 28, the team returned to Team Concepts helping our industry in a simple, yet effective, way and started the day with NPPA Education Director that is visible to the entire country.

Al Juhnke and Terry O'Neel introduce participants to the Nebraska Pork Producers Association, National Pork Board and National Pork Producers Council.

6 Nebraska Pork Talk – May/June 2019 888-627-7675 NPPC CANCELS 2019 WORLD PORK EXPO AS PRECAUTION

Risk of African Swine Fever World Pork Expo comes as more than About ASF Introduction to U.S. Herd 100 U.S. pork producers gathered in African swine fever is a viral Considered Negligible; Washington, D.C., to meet with their disease that causes high mortality members of Congress during NPPC's in domestic and wild pigs. Decision Made Out of An Legislative Action Conference in early Abundance of Caution It spreads through close contact April. To augment the USDA's efforts with infected animals or their The National Pork Producers to protect the United States from excretions, or through feeding Council's board of directors has ASF and other animal diseases, U.S. uncooked contaminated meat to announced its decision to cancel pork producers are asking Congress susceptible pigs. African swine World Pork Expo 2019 out of an to appropriate funding for 600 new fever affects only pigs and abundance of caution as African U.S. Customs and Border Protection presents no human health or swine fever (ASF) agriculture inspectors food safety risks. continues to to further spread in China strengthen About World Pork Expo and other parts of 1988 2019 our defenses Asia. World Pork against African Hosted by NPPC since 1987, Expo, held each swine fever. World Pork Expo is the world's June at the Iowa "Our farmers are highly largest pork industry-specific trade State Fairgrounds export dependent," show in the world. It brings together in Des Moines, hosts approximately Herring said. "An ASF outbreak would pork producers and other industry 20,000 visitors over three days, immediately close our export markets professional from around the including individuals and exhibitors at a time when we are already world for three days of education, from ASF-positive regions. African facing serious trade headwinds. The innovation and networking. swine fever affects only pigs and retaliatory tariffs we currently face in presents no human health or food some of our largest export markets About U.S. Pork safety risks. There is currently no due to trade disputes are among the1988 Production 2019 vaccine to treat the swine disease. factors that prompted a conservative U.S. pork producers today "While an evaluation by decision regarding World Pork Expo. provide 26 billion pounds of safe, veterinarians and other third-party U.S. pork producers are already wholesome and nutritious meat experts concluded negligible risk operating in very challenging financial protein to consumers worldwide. associated with holding the event, conditions." With annual sales of more than we have decided to exercise extreme Herring added, "The widespread $20 billion, U.S. pork production caution," said David Herring, NPPC presence of African swine fever generates an estimated $23 billion president and a producer from in China's swine herd, the world's of personal income and $39 billion Lillington, N.C. "The health of the largest by far, takes the threat of this of gross national product and U.S. swine herd is paramount; the swine disease to an entirely new supports more than 500,000 jobs livelihoods of our producers depend level. We ask all producers, travelers across the United States. on it. Prevention is our only defense and the general public to recognize against ASF and NPPC will continue the heightened risk since the first to do all it can to prevent its spread to outbreak was reported in China last the United States." year and to heed biosecurity protocols The decision to cancel this year's in support of U.S. agriculture."

www.NEpork.org Nebraska Pork Talk – May/June 2019 7 UNL Researchers Provide World-leading Precision Tracking Technology for Group-housed Pigs

Figure 1: Annotations (left image) of each pig's left ear (red), right ear (green), shoulder (blue), and tail (yellow). Part associations (middle image) are used to join parts to their neighbors in order to form whole instances. At each part location, a vector joins parts to their neighbors. The visualization encodes the part associations using hue for direction and saturation for magnitude (right image: color-vector mapping).

By Eric Psota, Ty Schmidt, Benny At the University of Nebraska- processing to track animals Mote and Lance Perez Lincoln, Benny Mote and Ty from video feedback provided Schmidt from the Department by consumer-grade security odern livestock operations of Animal Science have teamed camera footage. This solution, Mcontain thousands of up with Eric Psota and Lance unlike the majority of methods group-housed animals and are C. Pérez in the Department of being developed, does not designed for efficiency. In many Electrical & Computer Engineering require animals to be equipped cases, caretakers are responsible to develop a solution that makes with specialized tracking for observing thousands of it possible to continuously and hardware. Furthermore, it does animals, making periodic short- objectively observe animal activities not require modification to the term observations of activities and and behaviors on an individual pens themselves. In this way, it behaviors in order to infer each basis. The solution relies solely is much less evasive and more animal’s health status. on computer vision and image cost effective than, for example,

Figure 2: Deep fully-convolutional neural network used for encoding locations and associations (left image). Provided the 16-channel encoding, the method associates parts together to detect the location and orientation of individual pigs (right image). (continued)

8 Nebraska Pork Talk – May/June 2019 888-627-7675 radio frequency identification created that contains human After breaking the data set into (RFID) or ultra-wideband (UWB) annotated pig locations in 2000 a training images and test images, approaches. images across 17 different the method was evaluated and One of the most critically locations including both research shown to be capable of achieving important components to the and industry facilities. Figure 3 98 percent accuracy. The visual tracking method is its illustrates sample images from annotated dataset is the largest of ability to detect the location and each location. its kind and it is publicly available orientation of individual for researchers to develop and animals in each frame of evaluate their own methods. the video. Detections in Pigs and many other individual frames, when livestock animals are visually linked between frames, homogeneous. Consistency makes it possible to achieve is something that producers detailed tracking results on strive for, but it introduces a per-animal basis. However, considerable challenges typical behaviors of group- to visual tracking systems. housed pigs make tracking Traditional multi-object particularly difficult. They tracking methods rely on visual often fight, walk over each distinctions between targets in other, and pile up on top order to re-identify them when of one another to preserve visual detection is lost, or two warmth. or more tracks are shuffled or To overcome these swapped challenges, the method While the system uses uses deep learning to Figure 3: Samples of group-housed pig pens captured the shape of the pigs as the detect pig parts and in 17 different locations. The location of the left ear, right primary target to identify the associate the parts with ear, shoulder, and tail of each visible pig is annotated. pigs, in order to maintain one another to form whole identification, each pig is instances. The method equipped with an industry- uses a fully convolutional standard Destron Fearing ear pixel-to-pixel hourglass tag with a distinct color/number network to convert an input combination to provide a image into pixel encodings secondary form of identificaiton. that encapsulate both the To allow the system to identify location of body parts each tag, a collection of 5,290 and a way of joining them human annotated ear tag together. Figure 1 illustrates images were used to train a the encoding for a pair of deep classification network. pigs. Both the network and Figure 4 shows 64 sample the associated method for images of ear tag crops used joining parts together are to train the network. In some illustrated in Figure 2. cases, the ears are not visible, For training the deep and the target classification is learning method, a Figure 4: Ear tags for visual identification. “unknown.” comprehensive data set was (continued) (continued)

www.NEpork.org Nebraska Pork Talk – May/June 2019 9 UNL Researchers Provide World-leading Precision Tracking Technology for Group-housed Pigs (continued)

Research Objectives activities and behaviors prior finisher (11 weeks old to 26 Ear tag classification, to the presentation of visible weeks old) phases. The system together with location/ symptoms? has been developed and tested orientation detection, make it 4. Do illnesses in the nursery in an earlier deployment and possible to perform tracking on phase cause aggression and/or it has been demonstrated the individual animals over very long other behavior abnormalities in ability to capture lying, standing, durations. This unprecedented the finisher phase? eating, and distance traveled. Figure 5 shows a sample level of detailed observation 5. Can locomotion be used presents a wide range of output of the current system. In to select healthy gilts as collaboration with researchers research opportunities for animal replacement breeding animals? scientists and behaviorists. at Kansas State University, the 6. Can the system detect changes The research team is team will administer controlled in locomotion and activity hoping to answer the following lipopolysaccharide (LPS) that indicate early signs of questions: challenges to nursery phase pigs lameness? to answer questions 2, 3, and 1. How accurate is the tracking The team is currently funded 4. Finally, they are collaborating system at detecting basic on three separate National Pork with researchers at the U.S. Meat activities like lying, standing, Board grants to explore all of Animal Research Center (MARC) eating, drinking, and distance these questions. To answer to answer questions 5 and 6. traveled? question 1, they will perform a This University of Nebraska- 2. Can the system detect social large-scale test of the system Lincoln research team is excited behaviors like fighting, playing, using 24 cameras simultaneously to conduct this precision belly nosing, and tail biting? tracking the activities of 240 livestock farming research to help 3. Does sub-clinical illness in pigs during the nursery (three you the responsible producer pigs manifest as changes weeks old to 10 weeks old) and provide sustainable pork to feed a growing world.

Figure 5: Sample frame of the current tracking method. Identities are shown in the link between shoulder and tail and activities are listed in both the shoulder and tail location as L: lying, S: standing, and E: eating.

10 Nebraska Pork Talk – May/June 2019 888-627-7675 NPPA’s Internship Team Announced Current interns Jake Bonwell, McCyla Mickelson, Magdalene O'Brien and past intern Erica Lewis smile as they work to positively impact that pork industry in Nebraska.

hree University of Nebraska- like a mentor or adviser who is MAGDALENE O’BRIEN Lincoln agriculture committed to seeing each student is a sophomore studying Animal studentsT currently are serving succeed. Science and Grazing Livestock in the Nebraska Pork Producers • Experiences diversity through Systems Management at UNL. She Association Internship Program. contact with people who are began her internship in October The development of the next different from themselves and 2017. Magdalene is working wave of young professionals in develop new ways of thinking to develop a series of live and Nebraska through the Internship about and responding to recorded videos to build trust and program offered by the NPPA is circumstances as they work. foster discussion about modern pork something that we all can be very production. Magdalene is a talented • Balances deliberative learning proud of. young woman and has accepted with contributing to the Nebraska The investment now in this a challenging assignment to use Pork Producers Association. program will pay dividends for social media and other online tools the pork industry in the future. It is satisfying to know that to positively shape the image of the The reality that there is a shortage the support we are providing each pork industry in Nebraska. intern can lead to other future of talent present today is on MCCYLA MICKELSON is a opportunities for employment and the minds of many individuals sophomore studying Agribusiness engagement in the pork industry. and organizations as they try to at UNL. She began her internship Please welcome the 2019 Interns successfully plan for transition in in August 2018. McCyla will work for the Nebraska Pork Producers the near future. The NPPA is taking to foster interest and increase youth Association. the right steps to prepare for this involvement in the pork industry by facilitating meaningful hands- JAKE BONWELL is a through a lottery pig program in on learning opportunities. sophomore studying Agricultural Douglas and Sarpy Counties. This EACH INTERN: Economics with a minor in Animal experience will help approximately Science at UNL. He began his • Devotes considerable time and 20 urban youth gain hands-on internship in October 2018. Jake effort to purposeful tasks which experience working with pigs, and works to foster engagement with require daily decisions that having the responsibility of caring our online community using social deepen their investment in their for their own pig. Interacting with media. Increasing engagement Signature Project. students through this program online has been identified as Jake’s • Interacts with professionals in has been identified as McCyla’s signature intern project because signature intern project because she the pork industry and peers about he spent a lot of his life around the important matters and develops continues to show pigs as an active pork industry and is eager to help member in FFA. a meaningful relationship, much other producers connect with and be www.NEpork.org a part of the NPPA. Nebraska Pork Talk – May/June 2019 11 BaconFest 2019 Boasts Record Attendance!

Star City BaconFest “I’ll have one of everything!” BaconFest-goers were 2019 rocked the Capital asked to vote for their City in its fifth year on favorite treats again this April 7, with well over 600 year. Winners were: bacon enthusiasts enjoying First place, Brewsky’s, gourmet treats served up for its Sweet & Spicy by leading Lincoln-area Sliders (seasoned slow- restaurants. The event was smoked pork injected with hosted again this year by the apple cider topped with Cornhusker Marriott Hotel. Granny Smith apple coleslaw, The annual event, diced candied jalapeno bacon and a raspberry sponsored by the Nebraska Pork Producers bullet bourbon jam); Second place, Hurts Donut, Association (NPPA) and the Nebraska Restaurant for its Mini Maple Bacon Long John; Third place, Association (NRA), benefits culinary students in Smoking Gun Jerky, for its Sweet & Spicy Jalapeno the state and provides over $5,000 in scholarships Bacon Jerky, Maple and Cracked Black Pepper through the NRA's Hospitality Education Jerky, and Hawaiian Jerky. Foundation. Hormel Foods generously sponsors the Participating vendors included: 9 South Char bacon for the event. Grill; Brewsky's; HiWay Diner; The Single Barrel/ “The Nebraska Pork Producers Association Mulberry BBQ; HopCat; McKinney's Irish Pub;The continues to be amazed at the excitement and Eatery; Ashland Country Club; Rodizio Grill; enthusiasm BaconFest generates each year,” NPPA Lazlo's Brewery & Grill/Fireworks; Hurts Donut; President Tim Chancellor said. “Hats off to our Screamers Dining & Cabaret; Billy's Restaurant; participating chefs. Everything was delicious. Our Smoking Gun Jerky; industry loves this event because not only do we Hormel; Buzzard Billy's; get to showcase bacon, LeCupcake; Art & Soul; one of our most popular Papillion LaVista South pork products, but we ProStart; Cornhusker hope it also provides Hotel; Millertime Pub a farm-to-table and Grill; and Green connection for our Flash. urban consumers.”

NPPA President Tim Chancellor and emcee JP (KX96.9) draw first raffle winner.

NPPA’s Jane Stone (left) and Jacob Bonwell serve up plates filled with five kinds of Hormel bacon.

Who says bacon can’t be dessert?

12 Nebraska Pork Talk – May/June 2019 888-627-7675 BaconFest 2019 Boasts Record Attendance! NPPA President Tim Chancellor, co-emcee Coryelle (KX96.9) pictured with Nancy Luckey of Columbus, winner of the Traeger Grill

Chef Brandon of the Single Barrel is ready for business. Screamers Restaurant and Cabaret provided the entertainment. And the Winner is... Brewsky’s! Smoking Gun Jerky – Third Place

Hurts Donut – Second Place

Everyone enjoys “BaconFest.”

www.NEpork.org Nebraska Pork Talk – May/June 2019 13 NPPA Names 2019 Pork Mentorship Program Participants he Nebraska Pork Meet the 2019 Pork TProducers Association is Mentorship Program proud to welcome participants participants: in its 2019 Pork Mentorship Program. This year, five Darren Segner of Friend, Neb., is a freshman at the University of college-age students will Nebraska – Lincoln studying Animal participate in the program, Science with an option in food animal which has worked to further production and management. He is a develop youth leaders through member of Block and Bridle Club and Cru. He enjoys being outside hunting, individual and group-based fishing and camping, and is interested learning experiences since in learning more and exploring more 1999. about agriculture. Each year, participants in Darren was raised on a family farm north of Friend where he says his the Pork Mentorship Program best memories were made working participate in activities that in the hog barns with his dad, two encourage personal growth, older brothers and his grandpa. After career readiness, and completing his degree, he plans to return to the family farm. development of leadership Heather Hunt of Fullerton, Calif., skills, while expanding their is a sophomore at the University of knowledge of the pork industry. Nebraska – Lincoln studying Animal Participants are also active in Science with an option in meat science. Heather is involved in the professional projects that encourage giving agricultural sorority, Sigma Alpha, the back to their communities. Meat Science Club, and the Block and Each of the participants will Bridle Club. She is also the student receive a $500 scholarship coordinator for the Nebraska FFA Career Development Events and is a upon the successful peer mentor for the Agriculture Futures completion of requirements Learning Community. throughout the year-long Heather is preparing herself for a program. career in research and development to provide safe, quality meat to consumers. She understands the concerns people have about the meat industry, but is striving to become a resource for media and consumers.

14 Nebraska Pork Talk – May/June 2019 888-627-7675 NPPA Names 2019 Pork Mentorship Program Participants

Mekenzie Beattie of Sumner, Ronald Kramer of West Point, Neb., is a freshman at the University Neb., is a senior at the University of of Nebraska – Lincoln studying Nebraska – Lincoln studying Animal Agribusiness. Mekenzie is involved Science, Grazing Livestock Systems. in Chi Omega Sorority, Nebraska He is a member of Block and Bridle Human Resource Institute, Agronomy Club, UNL FFA Alumni and Cru. Club, Collegiate Farm Bureau, and the He enjoys hunting, camping, and Engler Agribusiness Entrepreneurship watching Western movies. Program. Through his experiences in the Mekenzie grew up on a family farm Pork Mentorship Program, Ronald raising crops and livestock. In 2018, would like to grow as an advocate Mekenzie was a national finalist for for the pork industry as he learns her Swine Entrepreneurship FFA from experts caring for pigs as well Proficiency. She plans to work in as from experts in marketing pork. agribusiness after completing her After completing his degree, Ronald degree. Because of her upbringing looks forward to a career in livestock and her involvement in 4-H, FFA, production. and showing livestock, however, Mekenzie plans to return one day to her family’s farm.

Miranda Mueller of Yutan, Neb., is a freshman at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln studying Animal Science, Grazing Livestock Systems. Miranda is involved in Block and Bridle Club, UNL FFA Alumni, and Grazing Livestock Systems Club. Miranda knows the pork industry is innovative and maximizes the use of technology and implements the best practices for animal care. She seeks to learn more about the pork industry, including career opportunities, and will work to build connections with industry leaders. Miranda plans to earn a Master’s Degree in genetics or ruminant nutrition.

www.NEpork.org Nebraska Pork Talk – May/June 2019 15 NPPA’s 2019 Pork Leadership Program Participants Announced

he Nebraska Pork Producers ZACHARY LUBECK of Omaha, • Current domestic issues and their Association has announced with Quality Pork International, impacts on the pork industry as it theT participants for its 2019 Pork works to negotiate raw materials relates to economics and trade Leadership Program. prices and manage relationships • Current policy and regulations The Pork Leadership Program, with suppliers. being developed on the local, a year-long program, focuses on The 2019 Pork Leadership state, and national levels building the leadership capacity of Program is comprised of four individuals who are committed to Participants in the Pork talented professionals. Participants Leadership Program will: contributing positively to the future share unique experiences that shape • Interact with the general public of Nebraska’s pork industry. their perspective based on their and elected leaders and will serve Participants in the 2019 Pork particular career path, as well as as positive advocates for the pork Leadership Program are: their personal involvements and industry AARON HOLLIDAY of interests. Columbus, with Pillen Family Participants in the Pork • Define their personal leadership Farms, provides oversight to five Leadership Program will take part style and know how to work with nursery barns and six finishing in six meetings and activities over different leadership styles in a barns, totaling 78,000 pigs. the course of a year, where they will group learn about various aspects of the ALLISON ZABEL of Papillion, • Develop a working knowledge pork and agriculture industries. with PIC, works as a customer of the Nebraska Pork Producers service specialist to enter orders, Participants in the Pork Association and other key organize transportation and provide Leadership Program will learn organizations that agriculture support for customers. more about: groups can work with to broaden perspectives and build coalitions JOEL KAELIN of Fairbury, • Current and diverse pork with DNA Genetics, is the lead production methods The Pork Leadership Program officer for the Fairbury Nucleus, • Current research efforts to was created to build awareness, managing growth improve pork production as it interest, and involvement in the of pigs from relates to overall pig health and pork industry. Members will further farrow to finish. well-being develop their skills as leaders Pork Leadership and will naturally emerge as the Programs next wave of active and engaged participants, from left: Zachary members of committees and board Lubeck, Aaron members at the local, state, and Holliday, Allison national levels. Zabel and Joel Kaelin.

16 Nebraska Pork Talk – May/June 2019 888-627-7675 NPPA’s 2019 Pork Leadership Program 18TH ANNUAL REGISTRATION DEADLINE: June 15, 2019 Register online at nepork.org Participants Announced or you can reach Sandra at [email protected] PORK CHOP or 531-500-3505 SCRAMBLE REGISTRATION COSTS: Individual—$150 Foursome—$500 Quarry Oaks Golf Club Near Ashland Allied Foursome—$450 Friday, June 28, 2019 SPONSOR OPPORTUNITIES: Hole Sponsor - $300 Shotgun start at 9:00 a.m. Food Sponsor - $550 Beverage Sponsor - $550

YOU’RE INVITED!

Thursday, May 16, 2019 Happy Hollow Club Omaha, Nebraska

Patron 6:00–10:00 p.m. $300 Regular 7:00–10:00 p.m. $150

An evening of creative pork culinary delights and fabulous pinot wines sure to impress. Proceeds benefit the weekend food program at Omaha’s Completely KIDs. Reservations are due by May 10 and may be made online at www.completelykids.org.

www.NEpork.org Nebraska Pork Talk – May/June 2019 17 EFFICIENT FOCUSED ECONOMICAL ON THE

EFFECTIVE PIGS E3

FEEDING & VENTILATION SYSTEMS choretimehog.com 574.658.5000

A Division of CTB, Inc., A Berkshire Hathaway Company

18 Nebraska Pork Talk – May/June 2019 888-627-7675 CTB ADVERTISING Ad No. PT-2619-201903-T-4C Nebraska Pork Talk

MMiiddwweesstt JJaacckkpot SeSwewaradr dC Coouunntyty 4 4--HH C Coouunncciill iinnvviites yoouu ttoo tthhee S Seewwaarrdd CCouonuntyt yF Faairirggrroouunnddss ffoorr tthhee 22019 Swwiinnee JJaacckkppoott! !

www.NEpork.org Nebraska Pork Talk – May/June 2019 19 WIECHMAN No Ribfest this Summer! Pig Company Inc. HHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH Instead, save Friday, August 16th for Family-friendly VIP Saltdogs Game. YOUR BEST MARKET FOR: Light and Heavy Sows Boars, Wet, Thin Sows Underweights, Roaster Pigs Rt. 5 Studley Road Fremont, NE 68025 402-721-5115 800-727-5153 www.wiechmanpig.com More information – and invite – to come!

ON SALE! Feed Bins #GST-936016KHS #GST-626016KHS From the 9 ft., 3 ring bin, 15 tons 6 ft., 2 ring bin, 4.5 tons WAS $3,149 WAS $1,694 Ground Up $ $ 2,731 1,477 Hog Slat brings over 50 years of industry experience in providing turnkey system solutions to livestock producers.

With extensive resources for each phase and design of your project, you can be assured Hog Slat has you covered.

• Consultation • Framing and complete building construction • Blueprints • Interior system design • Foundation • Exterior feed design • Slat Installation • Site supervision of all construction phases

*Price includes assembly. Delivery, installation, taxes and removal of old bin (if required) is not included. Call 402-741-2184 to discuss your next project

209 Road D 539 South Main Street Richland, NE 68601 West Point, NE 68788 (402) 563-4533 (402) 372-6988 *Pricing and promotions valid through 6/30/19. www.hogslat.com © 2019 Hog Slat, Inc. All rights reserved. 20 Nebraska Pork Talk – May/June 2019 888-627-7675 Thank you, Allied Members for all of your support through the years and welcome to our new Allied Members. We are greatly appreciative of our new members continuing to renew your membership and support of the Nebraska Pork Producers Association. We look forward to a successful 2019 with our three tiers of membership. If you have any questions, please contact Sandra Kavan at [email protected] or at (531) 500-3505. 201 9 MEMBERS Gold Level ($2,000)

Russ Vering [email protected] Kelley Johansen [email protected]

Kevin Nolan Leo Hanson [email protected] [email protected]

Silver Level ($850)

Michelle Kubat Hillary Snyder [email protected] Cal Coffin [email protected] [email protected]

Rachelle Kuhl Grant Rathje [email protected] [email protected] Wayne Luebbe [email protected]

www.NEpork.org Nebraska Pork Talk – May/June 2019 21 Silver Level ($850)

Gro Master

Kelly Cobb Todd Heisterkamp Art Halstead [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Gary McDuffee Barrie Luers [email protected] Sterling Meyer [email protected] Carly Kindschuh [email protected] [email protected]

Roger Berry Victor Bohuslavsky Robert Drew [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Marisa Bettin Mike Slegl Eric Ogren [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Roger Bruss Mike Wisnieski [email protected] [email protected] Seth Fevold [email protected]

Brady Barthole Ron Browning Dr. Dave Baumert [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

22 Nebraska Pork Talk – May/June 2019 888-627-7675 Bronze Level ($350)

COMPANY CONTACT EMAIL A. J. O’Mara Group, LLC John O’Mara [email protected] A-FAN Ashley Babl [email protected] Agri Sales Inc. Brad Carlton [email protected] AgroSoft North America Jon Tomsen [email protected] Allflex Tod Adams [email protected] Alltech Kade Scott [email protected] American Heartland Insurance Agency Inc. Dan Neville [email protected] Brayer Animal Health Tyler Hartwell [email protected] Brehmer Manufacturing Inc. Jamie Brehmer [email protected] Central Valley Ag Ted Beckner [email protected] Choice Genetics Mark Klassen [email protected] Commodity Solutions Jed Christensen [email protected] Design Agri-Systems, Inc. Randy Eisenmenger [email protected] Fast Genetics Kathleen Hovland [email protected] JES Environmental Services, Inc. Jack Sukovaty [email protected] LG Pumping, LLC Jason Gubbels [email protected] Livingston Enterprises, Inc. Bruce Livingston [email protected] Lynch Livestock Mike Faga [email protected] Mike Fagen Consulting Mike Fagen [email protected] Motomco Steve Von Haden [email protected] National Pork Board Rob Christine [email protected] National Pork Producers Council Tyler Bettin [email protected] Nebraska Corn Growers Association Kelly Brunkhorst [email protected] Northeast Community College Dr. Tracy Kruse [email protected] Nutrient Advisors Andy Scholting [email protected] Omega 3 Family Farms, LLC Dennis Nuttelman [email protected] Osborne Industries, Inc. Robin Friedrichs [email protected] Petersen Ag Systems Dan Lyons [email protected] Pinnacle Bank Amy Guenther [email protected] Provimi North America, Inc. Mike Clark [email protected] Purina Animal Nutrition Steve Jones [email protected] Swine Management Services, Inc. Mark Rix [email protected] Topigs Norsvin USA Craig Jarolimek [email protected] United Animal Health Alanna Harrison [email protected] Wahoo Concrete Products Randy Paseka [email protected] We Support Ag Steve Martin [email protected] Whole Hog Ron Brodersen [email protected] XFE Products Dennis Nuttelman [email protected]

www.NEpork.org Nebraska Pork Talk – May/June 2019 23 Nebraska Pork Producers Association 4435 O Street, Suite 200 Lincoln, Nebraska 68510

OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE NEBRASKA PORK PRODUCERS ASSOCIATION TO INFORM ITS MEMBERS Take advantage of the benefits of joining the

Gold Level: $2,000 • Annual Membership • Continuing Education Course • Pork Chop Scramble Hole Sponsorship - 20% off all Pork Talk ads Scholarships • Team of four at Pork Chop Scramble - Six complementary Ribfest tickets - Company information sent to all • Logo and company website on nepork.org - 200-word spotlight in Pork Talk recipients • Company name and logo listed in all • Sponsorship in VIP tent at Ribfest six issues of Pork Talk magazine

Silver Level: $850 • Annual Membership • Continuing Education Course • Logo and company website on nepork.org - 15% off all Pork Talk ads Scholarships • Company name and logo listed in all - Four complementary Ribfest tickets - Company information sent to all six issues of Pork Talk magazine - 200-word spotlight in Pork Talk recipients

Bronze Level: $350 • Annual Membership • Logo and company website - 10% off all Pork Talk ads on nepork.org - Two complementary Ribfest tickets • Company name and logo listed in all - 200-word spotlight in Pork Talk six issues of Pork Talk magazine

The Nebraska Pork Producers Association greatly appreciates all our 2019 Allied Members for your support! Our membership is growing and changing with the pork industry. We continue to offer three tiers of sponsorship for Allied Members to choose from. The three tiers listed above allow for one-time payment of several event sponsorships at one time while still giving members the opportunity to customize the events they would like to sponsor/participate in. Visit www.nepork.org for more information.