Feb. 2024 - Producer Connection

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE TEXAS PORK PRODUCERS ASSOCIATION • VOLUME 12, NUMBER 1

Seing pigs is what we DO

Raising kids is our

Paion Proud suorter of the texas pork producers aociation

The best se at

CONTACT US!

SCAN NOW TO CHECK OUT OUR SCHEDULE

the future is RAINS LIVESTOCK

crossbred & poland litters ready mid march CORY, LACEY, CRAYTON, COLE & CROSSON RAINS 325.236.0593 • FREDERICKSBURG, TX

3

On the Cover Showpig.com has been a tremendous supporter of TPPA for many years. For the next two years, Showpig.com will be our CTBR Title Sponsor. We look forward to continuing our partnership.

Seing pigs is what we DO

Raising kids is our

Paion Proud suorter of the texas pork producers aociation

Contents

The best se at

Table of 4

36 12 13 42 28 73

Showpig.com and National Pork Board Strategic Partnership...........9 Partnership.

Executive Report..............................................................................11 Report What does Proposition 1 for Texas Hog Farmers?............................12 Farmers?...........

The Impact of California’s Proposition 12.......................................13 12......

Showpig Biosecurity........................................................................14 Biosecurity...................

Breeder Spotlight - Berger Farms....................................................28 Farms Hear from the Texas Pork Junior Ambassadors................................36 Ambassadors.............

Youth Spotlight: Payton Ralston......................................................42 Ralston.........................

Breeder Directory............................................................................57 Directory.......................

Texas Pork Industry Conference......................................................73 Conference.......

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 TPPA’S MISSION “Education. Advocacy. Promotion.

The Texas Pork Producers Association is dedicated to the advancement of a sustainable and profitable pork industry.”

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE President - Josh Krohn, Lamesa President Elect - Peter Baumert, Dalhart Vice President - Cory Rains, Fredericksburg Executive Member - Todd Beyers, Abernathy Executive Member - Charles Hodde, Burton Executive Member - Robbie Harkey, Hale Center Immediate Past President - Doug Schaefer, Garden City

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Coby Berger, Giddings Chance Waldrip, Dalhart Shelby Padgett, Amarillo Luke Lindner, Comfort

Executive Director Colby Ferguson colby@texaspork.org

Jeremy Rounsavall, Purdon Doug Alderson, Marion Carrie Brockman, Montgomery Jason Foote, Lubbock

STAFF

Director of Youth and Communications Riley Reep riley@texaspork.org

Upcoming

February

Events

Fort Worth Barrow Show..............................................Jan. 30 -Feb. 1 San Antonio Swine Skill-a-thon..............................................Feb. 6 San Antonio Gilt Show........................................................Feb. 6-8 Texas’ Elite Showcase......................................................Feb. 9-11 San Antonio Barrow Show..............................................Feb. 16-22

March

TPPA Junior Ambassador Program Applications Open........March 1 Houston Gilt Show...................................................Feb. 29 - March 1 NSR Southwest Type Conference..............................Feb. 29 - March 2 BBQ Austin......................................................................March 1-3 Pork Forum.....................................................................March 5-7 Houston Barrow Show................................................March 9-14 TPPA Summer Internship Applications.............................March 15 Rodeo Austin Swine Skill-a-thon......................................March 18 Rodeo Austin...............................................................March 16-28

More events this year

Scholarship & Grant Applications Due.................................April 1 TPPA Junior Ambassador Program Applications Open...........May 1 Texas Pork Industry Conference.....................................May 17-18 Producer Connection

Producer Connection is the official publication of the Texas Pork Producers Association and is published by the Texas Pork Producers Association.

All inquiries should be directed to the TPPA office.

Advertisement Information

To place an ad or for advertising rates and guidelines, please contact Texas Pork Producers Association at (806) 705-6800 or tppa@texaspork.org.

Texas Pork Producers Association 4514 Englewood Ave Lubbock, TX 79414 806.705.6800 :: Phone tppa@texaspork.org Programs are made available to pork producers without regard to race, color, sex, religion or national origin. TPPA is an equal opportunity employer.

Let’s get social!

FACEBOOK

Texas Pork Producers Association

INSTAGRAM @texaspork

5

thank you

FOR THEIR TREMENDOUS SUPPORT OF THE TEXAS PORK INDUSTRY & CERTIFIED TEXAS BRED PROGRAM

6

Tried True Industry Leader for 20 years Traffic consignors rely on A website and team buyers trust

24/7 Support Easy collection and payment process A customer commitment beyond the sale

Online and Live Auction Formats | Web Banners | E-Blasts | Social Promotions | Targeted Text Messaging Bk with the best at showpig.com

7

Increasing

Volume & Value for U.S. Pork

The National Pork Board and your Pork Checkoff dollars are hard at work to:  Drive consumers to purchase pork via strategic partnerships with retailers

 Grow future pork consumption with fast-growing segments of multicultural consumers

 Address consumer barriers by highlighting pork’s nutritional value

Consumer-focused, producer-led. National Pork Board has been committed to serving America’s pork producers since 1985. Stay in the know on your Pork Checkoff investment.

Scan the QR code to subscribe to our weekly email updates. porkcheckoff.org/email

© 2024 National Pork Board, Des Moines, Iowa USA. This message funded by America’s Pork Checkoff Program.

8

One industry.

One mission. one animal.

Why should YOU care about this partnership?

Exciting news!

Equips the show pig community with information

Showpig and the National Pork Board (NPB) have teamed up to give a big boost to the show pig industry. This partnership provides practical resources, education programs, and support to show pig producers and exhibitors.

Aligns show pig producers with unified industry practices and communication standards

Showpig and NPB aim to empower the show pig community with top-notch resources and education, customizing essential industry knowledge. Our focus is on improving the lives of show pig producers by boosting operational knowledge, expanding resources and connecting exhibitors beyond the show ring.

It’s not just about the present — we’re also gearing up the next generation to be savvy advocates for the broader pork industry.

Get ready, groundbreaking actions begin in 2024.

Boosts awareness of initiatives funded by checkoff dollars Facilitates networking opportunities within the pork industry Provides leadership opportunities to create strong industry advocates.

Follow us on social media!

9

10

EXECUTIVE REPORT

A

more pork. Texas is one of the most populated states in the country, we need more people to eat pork locally. This is where you as producers and exhibitors can help. We need to let the consumers know that pork is not only great tasting, but it’s also good for you. Fresh pork is highly nutritious and an excellent source of protein.

So, what is on the horizon in 2024? TPPA will continue to focus on providing the opportunities for Texas pork producers to offer elite genetics to Texas show pig exhibitors through the Certified Texas Bred Program.

We will look to improve the program to make it even better for years to come. This is where I ask you to let us know what you think would make the CTBR even better. We want to make sure you as a producer and an exhibitor have the best experience.

Lastly, TPPA is working with the National Pork Board to make sure our producers have the necessary tools to ensure their ability to continue to produce and supply swine and pork in the event of a foreign animal disease outbreak. Many countries around the world are being affected by the African Swine Fever virus and it has devastated their pork industry. We need to continue to focus on preventing ASF from getting into the United States, but also make sure our producers and exhibitors are prepared if it does.

In 2024, TPPA will focus on FAD prevention and preparation through several events and actions. I encourage both the show pig producer and exhibitor to participate in these events to make sure you all are prepared just in case. The USDA has made it crystal clear, if the show pig industry (both the producer and the exhibitor) is not fully prepared with the necessary traceability paperwork, biosecurity protocols and preparedness plans if/when there is a FAD outbreak in the US, the industry will be shut down and nobody will be able to continue until those protocols are established. Another one of my favorite sayings “It’s better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it”.

s I write this message, I can’t help but think of all the possibilities that lie ahead in 2024.

However, before moving forward, I feel the need to reflect on where we’ve come in the last six months. In June of 2023, I had the honor and privilege to become the executive director of this great association. The timetable to get up to speed on how it all worked was extremely short and there really wasn’t any roadmap to use along the way.

Most days it felt like drinking from a fire hydrant.

Nevertheless, we worked to clean up the financials, got back on track with the National Pork Board and secured financial stability for the association.

I’m pleased to announce that the TPPA is on solid ground financially and we are moving forward with a renewed purpose to be the voice of the Texas pork producer (both commercial and show pig). In 2024, the TPPA will have been in existence for 135 years, the oldest livestock association in Texas.

On the national level, we will continue to make sure the Texas pork producer’s voice is heard, and that National politics and ideals don’t negatively affect our ability to produce profitability and freely. Even though the commercial industry and the show pig industry seem to be as different as can be right now, both can be negatively impacted by bad policy, laws and regulations. TPPA has a renewed interest in working to protect our producers at the state level and the National level. Starting in 2024, TPPA has contracted with the Cornerstone Government Affairs team to make sure our members are fairly represented in Austin as well as with our Congressional Delegation. As the old saying goes “You’re either at the table, or you’re on the menu.” TPPA will make sure the Texas pork producer is at the table when it comes to legislative policy, state regulations or any other government action that affects animal agriculture in Texas.

In addition to this expanded producer advocacy, we will work to increase domestic demand in pork by working with our retailer partners to promote eating

So, as we move into 2024, let’s not forget where we’ve been in the past, but let’s work to make this year the best. Thank you to all those that are involved in the swine industry. It has certainly helped shape where I am today. I hope it can have those same positive impacts on your life as we move forward.

Colby Ferguson

TPPA Executive Director

11

Proposition 1 – Right to Farm and Ranch Amendment to the Texas Constitution Passed

WHAT DOES PROPOSITION 1 MEAN FOR PORK PRODUCERS IN TEXAS?

n November 7, 2023, Texas voters voted to support Proposition #1, the ballot initiative to amend the Texas constitution to further protect farmers and ranchers no matter how small or large; ensure Texans have safe and affordable food; and further protect environment and animal welfare.

O

What does this constitutional amendment not do?

So what does this mean when it comes to the family swine farm in Texas?

This amendment was designed to cut down on regulatory overreach and ensure agencies have clear and convincing evidence before any new regulations can be created. This also protects farmer’s ability to continue generally accepted farming practices and prevents government agencies from generating regulations to stop or deter those farming practices.

Prior to this amendment being passed, the courts have given great leeway to government regulations, making it the responsibility of the farmer to prove that the agency had no basis to adopt a new regulation. To control regulatory overreach, the amendment now requires agencies to provide clear and convincing evidence that the new regulation is needed before it can be approved.

12

This doesn’t allow a farmer to knowingly harm animals, it doesn’t allow a farmer to misuse pesticides and other pollutants that could harm the environment. It doesn’t allow a farmer to not follow current regulations.

On Nov. 7, the citizens of Texas made it clear that farmers and ranchers in Texas are essential and need to be protected from government overreach. This is a huge win for the future of production agriculture in Texas.

THE IMPACT OF

CALIFORNIA’S PROPOSITION 12 Prevention of Cruelty to Farm Animals Act on Texas Show Pig Producers

I

n 2018, California voters passed a California constitutional amendment that imposed arbitrary minimum requirements on farmers to provide more space for egg laying hens, breeding sows, and calves raised for veal. This state law impacted not only producers in California but also any producer that sold animals or meat into California.

Before the law could go into effect, many livestock groups including the National Pork Producers Council filed a lawsuit against the law saying that it infringed on interstate commerce. The case stayed in the courts until it made its way to the US Supreme Court in 2022. After many months of deliberating, the Supreme Court came back in May 2023 with their ruling upholding the California law.

Therefore, forcing all producers to abide by the new space requirements. This is a major issue for most modern commercial swine farms, but for the typical show pig operation, they meet the minimum housing standards easily.

So why is this a big deal, then? Well, up until January 1, 2024, a producer could self-certify that they met the Prop 12 housing standards.

A show pig breeder that sold pigs to families in California didn’t have to worry about the new law because the families were able to certify for them.

Unfortunately, that can’t be done starting in 2024.

Now a producer that sells pigs into California will

have to get their operation third-party certified by an independent certified Prop 12 auditor through an onsite inspection before those pigs can enter California. This certification is only good for 1 year.

So, a producer will have to get reinspected annually to keep their certification.

Is there anything being done to try to stop this regulatory overreach? Yes, many agricultural groups including NPPC are lobbying Congress to include language in the next Federal Farm Bill to address this issue. Since the Supreme Court clearly outlined that Congress needed to clarify their intent when it comes to state’s ability to dictate how commerce is allowed into their state, it is Congress’s responsibility to address this. Today, it is Prop 12 and sow housing, but tomorrow it could be another state that has issues with its fellow neighboring states and creates its own restriction on commerce being allowed in. This precedent set by the Supreme Court could open Pandora’s Box when it comes to state-by-state regulations and restrictions.

For show pig producers looking for more answers and links to certified Prop 12 auditors, Showpig. com has provided a blog piece with more information on their website. A direct link can be found on the online version of this article on our website, www.texaspork.org/news.

13

14

SHOW PIG

BIOSECURITY As major show season begins, remember to practice proper biosecurity measures to do your part in protecting the entire pork industry.

A

s an exhibitor, you can play a huge role in the pork industry. Just as you take each step to ensure your show pig remains healthy, you share the responsibility of making sure all pigs, show pig or not, stay in the best of health. With over 1 million pigs involved in the show industry in our country, we all must do our part in supporting swine health and biosecurity.

Biosecurity is a term used to reduce the risk of diseases being transmitted through a variety of factors including people, animals, equipment, and/or vehicles. With pigs being susceptible to disease, it is important to follow biosecurity practices to protect your show projects.

Follow along as we share a few tips and tricks on how to protect your pigs and others this show season.

TRANSMISSION OF DISEASES Diseases can be transmitted easily if we are not being diligent.

The most common transmission types include: • Contact Transmission – nose-to-nose contact with other pigs that leads to infection.

• Aerosol Transmission – exposure through coughing, sneezing, and dust from infected pigs.

• Fecal Transmission – infected manure or bedding.

The transmission risks don’t end here. Indirect transmission can include any dirty objects used with a sick pig such as brushes, spray bottles, trailers, and more. Although there are many risk factors for spreading disease, there are 15

general practices of biosecurity that can be implemented.

BEFORE THE SHOW Before attending any show, be sure you are prepared to always protect your pig’s health. A good rule of thumb would be to document all of your pig’s treatments and vaccinations. Be sure to work with your veterinarian to determine if any vaccinations are necessary. In addition, only take clean and properly disinfected equipment to the show. Ensure you have adequate supplies needed for the duration of the show, so you do not have to borrow from others.

Most importantly, only take healthy pigs to a show to minimize the risk of a disease outbreak. If your pigs is not eating normally, coughing, having trouble breathing, or showing any disease symptoms, it is in the best interest of your pig and others to reconsider exposing the pig elsewhere.

DURING THE SHOW While at the show, continue to monitor your pig for any signs of illness. If you suspect your pig may be sick, inform the veterinarian on site as soon as possible. Wash your hands before coming into contact with pigs or equipment.

AFTER THE SHOW Once you return home from any show, try to isolate the pig exposed as much as possible. During the isolation process, you have the chance to monitor your animal to see if it shows any signs of disease. Be sure to wear different shoes and clothing from each barn, as well as those that you wore at the show.

Cleaning and disinfecting play a vital role in reducing the risk of your pigs getting 16

sick. Before loading your trailer with pigs again, be sure to remove all bedding/manure and equipment from the trailer and clean thoroughly.

This includes, but is not limited to: • Feeders • Waters • Buckets • Panels • Brushes • Show boxes and equipment When disinfecting your trailer, barns, and equipment, be sure to properly apply the disinfectant according to its instructions. After this process, allow the equipment to fully dry using sunlight or a heat source to kill the remaining pathogens.

In addition, reduce exposure to other people. If visitors need to attend your farm, supply clean boots or plastic boot covers.

All visitors need to wear clean clothing and wash their hands before stepping foot in your barn. When your visitors are leaving, ask them to remove their plastic boot covers and place in a garbage bag.

Then make sure to dispose of them in a designated location or away from clean supplies. If you supply visitors with clean boots, make sure to disinfect those boots after each visit. Everyone should clean their hands with sanitizer or wipes before entering the vehicle.

Taking the necessary precautions is important right now to protect the health of our industry. While it may be simple to just rid the pens of shavings, disinfect your barns, and more, it can play a vital role in ensuring the health of the pork industry.

Article content is referenced to A Champion’s Guide to Biosecurity by the National Pork Board.

To read the entire document, view this article on our website at www.texaspork.org/news.

17

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA FOR SALE UPDATES WARREN 325.647.5200 | 7950 HWY 183 N. EARLY, TX | MAX 325.647.5203

18

Start Early to Finish First

Performance counts from birth to show ring, and you can count on your show pig’s first step with MoorMan’s® ShowTec® Prestarter w/DF No. 22097CVWD4

Build champions from the start with backing from the performance and research-proven technologies in MoorMan’s ShowTec Burst StarterTM w/DF No. 24320CVWE4

Whether for sale or recently purchased, gain the competitive edge for your growing show pigs with MoorMan’s ShowTec Sale Burst w/DF No. 21256CVWE4

MoorMan’s® ShowTec® Pig Milk Replacer • Top-dress on show pig rations to enhance condition • Supplement or replace sow’s milk

Supporting products

SHOW FEED SPECIALISTS Tadd Knight – 217-653-0528

Josh Elkins – 979-255-8309

www.MoorMansShowTec.com • 800-217-2007 • AN_ShowFeedHelp@adm.com

19

DRIVEN BY BREEDERS. PROMOTING YOUTH. SUPPORTING TEXAS.

20

CERTIFIED TEXAS BRED REGISTRY

POINTS bredown SYSTEM

The CTBR Top Breeder and Premier Exhibitor programs are based off of a cumulative point system tabulated

by TPPA staff. Here is the updated points system that is used to reward breeders and exhibitors for their accomplishments at the following major barrow shows: the State Fair of Texas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, Houston, and Rodeo Austin barrow shows, plus, the Texas’ Elite Showcase gilt show.

Moving forward in 2024, our top breeder awards will be determined by the total points earned according to the table listed here.

save the date

The results of the CTBR Top Breeder and Premier Exhibitor programs will be released after the spring major shows each year. For questions regarding these programs, please contact the TPPA office at tppa@texaspork.org.

21

Major Show CALENDAR

20 24

Fort Worth

JANUARY 30 - FEBRUARY 2

San Antonio FEBRUARY 6-8

Purebred & Crossbred Gilts

FEBRUARY 16-22

Junior Market Barrows

Texas’ ELite Showcase FEBRUARY 9-11 Gilt Show & Sale

SAn Angelo FEBRUARY 9-11 Breeding Gilts

FEBRUARY 12-15 Junior Market Barrows

Houston

FEBRUARY 29- MARCH 1 Breeding Gilts

MARCH 9-14

Junior Market Barrows

Austin

MARCH 16-18 22

23

major show

2023

WEIGHT BREAKS TEXAS’ ELITE SHOWCASE LIGHT CROSS

DARK CROSS

20

230-241

23

230-230 - Division I -

26

240-253 - Division II -

29

271-281 - Division III -

21

242-270

24

230-231

27

254-261

30

282-296

22

271-350

25

232-239

28

262-270

31

297-350

SAN ANTONIO CROSSBRED GILTS

7

250-253

39

279-286

77

284-296

1

230-232

8

255-265

40

287-296

78

297-300

2

230-232

9

266-279

41

297-300

LANDRACE

3

230-232

10

280-300

42

297-300

85

250-275

4

233-239

POLAND

DARK CROSS

86

283-300

5

240-243

13

250-268

51

250-253

CROSSBRED

8

244-250

14

269-300

52

250-253

89

250-253

9

251-256

HAMPSHIRE

53

250-253

90

250-253

10

257-261

17

250

54

254-259

91

250-253

11

262-268

18

250

55

260-265

92

250-253

12

269-274

19

251-257

56

266-272

93

254-257

15

275-283

20

258-263

57

273-279

94

258-260

16

284-293

21

264-268

58

280-287

95

261-265

17

294-302

22

269-275

59

288-300

96

266-268

18

303-318

23

276-283

CHESTER

101

269-271

19

319-340

24

284-290

68

250-265

102

272-275

BARROWS

25

291-300

69

268-283

103

276-278

70

284-300

104

279-282

BERKSHIRE

DUROC

1

250

34

250-253

YORKSHIRE

105

283-286

2

251-269

35

250-253

73

250

106

287-290

3

270-300

36

254-264

74

252-267

107

291-298

37

265-272

75

268-277

108

299-300

38

273-278

76

278-283

SPOT 6

24

250-253

HOUSTON HAMPSHIRE

OTHER CROSSBRED I

54

264-270

84

256-273

1

250-253

29

250-254

55

272-277

85

274-300

2

250-253

30

250-254

58

278-285

OTHER CROSSBRED II

3

250-253

31

250-254

59

286-295

88

250

4

254-259

32

250-254

60

296-300

89

250

7

260-265

33

250-254

61

296-300

90

250

8

266-272

36

255-258

BERKSHIRE

91

250

9

273-277

37

259-263

66

250

92

251-255

12

278-283

38

264-266

67

251-263

95

256-261

13

284-290

39

267-269

68

264-282

96

262-265

14

291-300

40

270-274

69

283-300

97

266-270

POLAND

43

275-277

YORKSHIRE

98

271-274

19

250-263

44

278-280

72

250

99

275-279

20

264-300

45

281-287

73

251-268

102

280-284

46

288-296

74

269-280

103

285-289

297-300

77

281-288

104

290-299

78

289-300

105

300

SPOT 23

250

47

24

251-265

DUROC

25

266-284

52

250-252

CHESTER

26

285-300

53

253-263

83

AUSTIN DUROC

250-255

HAMPSHIRE

LIGHT CROSSBRED

34

275-276

1

250-262

11

250

22

250

35

277-282

2

362-273

12

250

23

253-263

36

283-288

3

274-286

13

252-259

24

264-270

37

289-290

4

290

14

260-264

25

271-278

38

289-290

DARK OPB

15

265-284

26

279-288

5

250

16

275-284

27

289-290

6

252-265

17

290

DARK CROSSBRED

7

266-280

YORKSHIRE

28

250

8

281-290

18

250

29

250

WHITE OPB

19

254-267

30

252-257

9

250-272

20

270-286

31

258-262

10

273-290

21

287-290

32

263-269

33

270-274

25

Rodeo Austin

exclusive to the CERTIFIED TEXAS BRED REGISTRY

26

2023 Champions

2023

GRAND CHAMPION SHOWN BY: KENLEY KROHN BRED BY: DL SHOWPIGS

2023 RES. GRAND CHAMPION SHOWN BY: RHETT STRACENER

BRED BY: LACKEY LIVESTOCK

2024

RODEO AUSTIN

MARCH 16-18 KYNDAL REITZENSTEIN KERSEY, CO

27

CLIFF & COBY

BERGER FARMS Cliff & Coby Berger Giddings, TX

R

ight outside of Giddings, TX, in a small town with a population of about 300 people, is Dime Box, the home to Berger Farms. The father and son duo, Cliff and Coby Berger, currently house about 100 sows that are farrowed year-round. They have also recently started a small boar stud. The Berger family currently has spot, duroc and berkshire sows, with their focus on crossbreds.

Cliff grew up on a family farm raising cattle, farming roughly 200 acres of row crops, and running a 125 head commercial hog farm. After graduating high school, Cliff always found his way back to the family farm to tend to the hogs.

T H E

FARM BEHIND THE

“There hasn’t been a single day in my 58 years that there hasn’t been a hog on the place,” Cliff said. “When the market prices dropped, the commercial hog farm quickly turned into a show pig operation.”

As for Coby, he was practically born into the show pig world, which instilled a passion in him that keeps him wanting more and more.

FOUNDATION “I was raised around agriculture and livestock

FEMALE

28

my whole life,” Coby said. “I showed my first pig at 3-years-old and have been hooked since.

For as long as I can remember, we always had a few sows around the farm. When I graduated

high school the sow herd started to increase slowly to where we are today.”

When asked about what sets them apart, the two agreed that it was their relationship.

However, with all of that comes challenges, but with challenges can come great success. For Cliff, he says the biggest challenge is having the ‘meeting of the minds.’

“Coby and I have different opinions many times on what boars to use on what sows,” Cliff said.

“I like them a little stouter; Coby likes a more complete hog. We’ll have our arguments, but no sow gets bred unless we both approve of the boar,” Cliff said, “We keep each other centered so we don’t go too far in the wrong direction.

Coby handles 99% of the feeding program on the show pigs, but he’ll ask my input on what the pigs look like and what needs to be done.”

While they may have their differences, the two have an unbreakable bond. The pair keep one another other going everyday along with countless family members and friends.

“My dad would for sure be my biggest influence,” Coby said. “He has taught me most

///

29

of what I know about livestock and more. The biggest influence outside of that would have to be my younger sister; she keeps me motivated to get better every day.”

For Cliff, he credits his biggest influence and help not only to his dad and the numerous who taught him growing up, but also to God. “When things go bad, anyone in the hog business knows it will, I try to put all things in his hands,” Cliff said. “He gives me the strength to keep going every day. I always tell Coby no matter how bad things may seem there is always something or someone who has it worse.

Through Him, I try to stay positive.”

To Cliff and Coby, it is not all about winning, but more importantly, about watching the kids involved in the industry grow and become better people while they do it. By growing up in the show pig world, they have seen first-hand the impact it can make on someone’s life and the value that it holds.

“Responsibility is a huge value I see that youth get from raising any kind of livestock,” Cliff said.

“Most importantly though, the involvement with others and the networking that the kids get to experience is one of the greatest things in today’s world.”

30

In fact, some of their proudest moments in life are shared with youth. However, there are a few individuals that hold a special place in their hearts.

“My sister Samantha and I share a pretty special bond, so being able to watch her step in the ring and win San Antonio with a pig we raised was my absolute proudest moment to date,” Coby said.

“I can’t accomplish much in this industry by myself nor can Coby, but to watch a little girl with down syndrome step into the ring at almost every major show win a class and eventually win San Antonio has to be my biggest highlight,” Cliff followed.

It has always been much more than a show pig in many of our eyes. However, this father and son duo said they truly believe the most rewarding part of raising show pigs would be helping the youth involved.

“Not just seeing them win but seeing them learn from mistakes and watching them become better people from that is one of the highlights for us,” Coby said. “Winning is fun but watching that kid that has been through tough times and overcome adversity is the most rewarding.”

As for the future, both Cliff and Coby hope to see Berger Farms, as well as the show pig industry, continue to grow. Quality stock will continue to come out of that little town of Dime Box, TX, and Cliff and Coby will constantly strive to make the livestock industry the best it can be.

Berger Farms will be donating the Foundation Female this year at Texas’ Elite Showcase. This female will sell as lot 3 in the Gilts of Distinction sale beginning at 4 pm on Sunday, February 11. All proceeds will benefit the CTBR scholarship program.

On behalf of the Texas Pork Producers Association, we would like to thank Berger Farms for their significant contribution to the youth of Texas.

31

DEDICATED TO

SERVING YOUTH.

Our youth are our future. The Texas Pork Producers Association has dedicated numerous years advocating, educating, and encouraging Texas youth. Discover the programs and opportunities crafted to elevate the future generation.

TEXAS PORK JUNIOR AMBASSADORS Over the course of two (2) years, junior ambassadors motivate and educate the youth of Texas while learning more about the swine industry. The goal of this program is to generate visible agricultural advocates who will become influential leaders wherever they are. Opportunities through this program include, but aren’t limited to industry tours, personal/professional development sessions, networking opportunities, and more.

Ages 17-21 are welcome to apply from March 1 to May 1.

INTERNSHIPS TPPA offers summer internships for students continuing their education in the state of Texas. During the summer months, interns can assist with major association events related to the ambassador program, camp, conference, and more. In addition, interns play a vital role in creating the largest issue of the year for the Producer Connection magazine. Applications are due by March 15th.

TEXAS PORK LEADERSHIP CAMP Texas Pork Leadership Camp is an intense, progressive, and thought-provoking week, full of activities, tours, and presentations featuring all aspects of the pork production industry. Students will join TPPA staff for a week travelling to different businesses and operations. Camp is held every odd year. Applicants must be between the ages of 16-18. The next camp will be in 2025.

TEXAS PORK YOUTH CONFERENCE Texas Pork Youth Conference is held each year in conjunction with the association’s annual conference. Led by the Texas Pork Junior Ambassadors, youth members in attendance will engage in all aspects of the pork industry, development activities, and of course, a whole lot of fun! For 2024, the youth conference will be in San Marcos, TX from May 17-18. This event is open to any and all students who have an interest in the growing within the swine industry.

FOUNDATION FEMALE SCHOLARSHIP & GRANT

32

For more than a decade, the Certified Texas Bred Registry has given back over $132,000 to Texas youth through the CTBR Foundation Female Scholarship and Grant. Scholarships and grants are funded from proceeds of the Foundation Gilt which is donated from a CTBR breeder. Applications are due each year by April 1st.

cholarshi

Certified texas bred registry

FOUNDATION GILT Scholarship and Production grant applications Due ST

APRIL 1 SCHOLARSHIP

Over $100,000 has been awarded in scholarships since 2011 In 2023, six scholarships were awarded at $2,500 each

PRODUCTION GRANT

Provide financial assistance to deserving 4-H and FFA students who are continuing their involvement in swine production through establishing their own breeding program Minimum amount of $2,500

riley@texaspork.org | texaspork.org

33

PREMIER EXHIBITORS OF THE CERTIFIED TEXAS BRED REGISTRY

34

POINT SYSTEM REWARDING THE TOP THREE EXHIBITORS

OF CTBR BARROWS IN EACH CLASS AT the State Fair of Texas, Fort Worth, San Antonio, Houston and Austin.

Plus, Texas’ Elite Showcase.

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS $100 premium, vinyl banner, and cap awarded to each CTBR Class Champion $1,000 premium spread out over the Top 5 at Texas’ Elite Showcase Plus, scholarship opportunites.

HONORED DURING THE ANNUAL TEXAS PORK INDUSTRY CONFERENCE

2023

Premier Exhibitors KY BLOUNT

LANDON STOVALL

WESTON LACKEY

COLTER WINTER

KOTTON WEST SINTON FFA

JT HODGES

LUBBOCK CO. 4-H

KENLEY KROHN

BEN MONTOYA

GARRETT ECHTLE

KERR CO. 4-H

TOM GREEN CO. 4-H

LUBBOCK CO. 4-H KLONDIKE FFA

OWEN SEIDENBERGER GLASSCOCK CO. 4-H

LIPAN FFA

HASKELL FFA

MEDINA VALLEY FFA

MACIE HANSEN CANADIAN FFA

35

FROM THE TEXAS PORK

JUNIOR

AMBASSADORS T

he Texas Pork Producers Association has dedicated numerous years advocating, educating, and encouraging Texas youth. With efforts to continue our mission of advancing a sustainable and profitable pork industry, the association was inspired to create a youth program that would generate visible youth leaders for our industry and communities.

Thus far, the ambassadors gathered in Lubbock in July 2023 to begin the program with orientation, plus personal and professional development training. In September, we travelled to Amarillo to meet with industry partners to further their knowledge of agriculture as a whole.

This spring, the ambassadors will assist at the Texas Elite Showcase and BBQ Austin. In addition, they will host the Texas Pork Youth Conference in conjunciton with the annual conference in May. As we reach the end of year one, hear from the current junior ambassadors about their experience so far!

BROOKE REININGER NEW BERLIN, TX SENIOR AT MARION HIGH SCHOOL

36

As people involved in the livestock industry, we have many opportunities to develop leadership qualities and cultivate networking skills through interactions with industry leaders.

Growing up, I noticed that many of my peers engaged in specific cattle breed associations. They shared their passion for these breeds and sometimes took on leadership roles that honed skills crucial for their future endeavors. This led me to question why a similar platform wasn’t available in the pork industry. Around that time, an Instagram post caught my attention: “INTRODUCING THE TEXAS PORK JUNIOR AMBASSADORS - Applications open March 1st.” That moment sparked my determination to give it my all and reach my fullest potential in pursuit of being selected.

Upon becoming a Junior Pork Ambassador, I was stoked. This opportunity seamlessly merged my enthusiasm for leadership and industry involvement with my love for pigs. I was thrilled to meet the other ambassadors, and when we all got together for the first time it was incredibly fulfilling; we just clicked. It’s pretty remarkable that despite our diverse backgrounds and scattered locations across Texas, we synergized effortlessly. This group holds a special place in my heart. I’ll forever cherish the Texas Pork Producers Association and the individuals who have worked behind the scenes to initiate this exceptional program. It has significantly broadened my understanding of the entire pork industry, encompassing both show and commercial operations.

From the Ambassador training and orientation to the retreat we had in September and all of the miles in between, I have loved every minute of this ambassadorship and can’t wait to see what’s to come.

LANDRY MILLER

ABERNATHY, TX FRESHMAN AT CLARENDON COLLEGE

The Texas Pork Producers Junior Ambassador program has been an amazing experience for me so far. It has truly opened my eyes to so many avenues and opportunities in the swine and agricultural industry that I had never even heard of before. I had no idea how many different subjects I would be exposed to when I applied for this position. I have gained a wide array of knowledge varying from hardworking commercial sow operations to ultracreative marketing specialists. We have seen so many different viewpoints within the industry, and they all play a vital role in keeping the industry on its feet. The part of the program that I have enjoyed the most is the relationships that I have been able to build.

Our team of ambassadors has grown closer to each other than I ever could have imagined. We have built a bond that is centered around our mutual interest of the swine industry that I believe will last us a lifetime. We have also extended our social network and built relationships with the people that we never would have had the opportunity to, if not for this program. There are so many incredible people that I have had the pleasure of meeting in such a short amount of time, and I can’t wait to continue building those bonds!

The Texas Pork Producers Ambassador Program offers valuable opportunities for the younger generation by providing hands-on experience in the pork industry. Participants gain insights into pork production, animal husbandry, and agricultural practices, fostering a deep understanding of the industry’s nuances. Additionally, the program promotes leadership skills through training and networking, empowering participants to become advocates for sustainable and responsible pork farming. This exposure not only enhances knowledge but also opens doors for future career paths within the agricultural sector. The program presents many enriching opportunities for the younger generation, serving as a gateway to a comprehensive understanding of the pork industry. Through hands-on experiences, we were allowed to participate and learn about the intricate parts of pork production, gain practical insights into commercial swine production, processing facilities, and the overall agricultural process. This teaches valuable skills and cultivates a profound appreciation for responsible and sustainable farming practices.

The Ambassadorship also helps us to work on our leadership development. Ambassadors practice communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities. At the end of the two-year term, we ambassadors hope to be well-equipped with the tools to effectively convey the importance of the pork industry to diverse audiences, positioning us as advocates for agricultural sustainability. The networking opportunities within the program make great connections with industry professionals, providing a unique platform for mentorship and career guidance. The Texas Pork Producers Ambassador Program not only broadens the knowledge base but also nurtures a sense of responsibility toward the future of agriculture. The program not only opens doors to potential career paths within the industry but FREDERICKSBURG, TX instills a passion for promoting the welfare of pork producers and the SENIOR AT FREDERICKSBURG HIGH SCHOOL sustainability of agricultural practices within our world.

LANDRI OTTMERS

37

Being a Texas Pork Junior Ambassador has been a remarkable experience. Our first week together started a new network of connections, which evolved into a family. Our week consisted of leadership workshops, numerous meetings with experts in various fields and personal growth with support from one another. Group bonding occurred which allowed us to understand each member in the ambassador program.

KYNNLEY HERRINGTON EASTLAND, TX SOPHOMORE AT TEXAS A&M

BRAELYN POINTER SUDAN, TX FRESHMAN AT TEXAS TECH

38

Having firm leadership set the pace for the next two years. Riley Reep and Colby Ferguson displayed confidence in everything they did, including confidence in us as newcomers. Being guided by them has allowed us to lead by example, which makes working with everyone so fulfilling. I have learned that we make each other better with time. Working with peers who share the same ambitions, passions and goals made joining TPJA a welcoming environment where we all strive. The junior ambassador program has allowed each of us to take a step back from our day-to-day lives to see the bigger picture. Recognizing that everything we do is directed towards the youth created a stabilized foundation, thus improving the program.

TPPA has prepared all of us for future endeavors. It has allowed us to develop public speaking skills, professional capabilities and expanded our knowledge of the pork industry. This program holds individuals to a higher standard, and each time we meet the bar only rises. TPPA has helped shape us into the young adults we are today and will continue to do so for generations to come.

My time, so far, as a Texas Pork Producers Junior Ambassador has been a once in a lifetime experience.

Getting to express and share my passion for the Texas pork industry with my fellow ambassadors has been nothing short of amazing. Most of us, before joining this program, had only been exposed the show side of this industry and that was no different for me. Having the opportunity to go on our industry tour this past fall has been the highlight of this year. Visiting with different companies like JBS and Seaboard opened my eyes to what the commercial swine industry looks like, and the vast differences compared to what I grew up around in the show barn, as well as meeting leaders in the industry and getting to make those connections. I am most looking forward to traveling with our group this spring and having the opportunity to interact with the youth of the swine industry at shows and conference, not only being able to advocate for the industry, but to share with the future generations of pork. This program has not only given me amazing opportunities but has also given me 6 of the best people I know in my life. We all share such a passion for the pork industry, and I can’t wait to continue to learn and grow with this amazing group of people.

AUDREY RATLIFF VALLEY VIEW, TX SOPHOMORE AT TEXAS TECH

My time, so far, as a Texas Pork Producers Junior Ambassador has been a once in a lifetime experience. Getting to express and share my passion for the Texas pork industry with my fellow ambassadors has been nothing short of amazing.

Most of us, before joining this program, had only been exposed the show side of this industry and that was no different for me. Having the opportunity to go on our industry tour this past fall has been the highlight of this year. Visiting with different companies like JBS and Seaboard opened my eyes to what the commercial swine industry looks like, and the vast differences compared to what I grew up around in the show barn, as well as meeting leaders in the industry and getting to make those connections. I am most looking forward to traveling with our group this spring and having the opportunity to interact with the youth of the swine industry at shows and conference, not only being able to advocate for the industry, but to share with the future generations of pork. This program has not only given me amazing opportunities but has also given me 6 of the best people I know in my life. We all share such a passion for the pork industry, and I can’t wait to continue to learn and grow with this amazing group of people.

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK AND INSTAGRAM TO KEEP UP WITH THE JUNIOR AMBASSADORS!

Ambassadors will assist with seving over 6,000 pork samples to consumers over a two-day period.

AMBASSADOR

UPCOMING EVENTS

FEB. ‘24 - TEXAS’ ELITE SHOWCASE Ambassadors will assist with the check-in process, show ring help, encouraging exhibitors, and helping wherever is needed.

MARCH ‘24 - BBQ AUSTIN

MAY ‘24 - TEXAS PORK INDUSTRY CONFERENCE Ambassadors will coordinate and facilitate the Youth Symposium, as well as connect with board members, memebers, and industry partners.

JUNE ‘24 - NEW AMBASSADORS ARE ANNOUNCED After an in-depth application process, four (4) new junior ambassadors will join the team.

JULY ‘24 - JUNIOR AMBASSADOR ORIENTATION Ambassadors participated in public speaking/crisis communications training, engaged in personal and professional development activities, as well as learned more about issues facing the industry.

SEPT. ‘23 - JUNIOR AMBASSADOR INDUSTRY TOUR Ambassadors will embark on a week long tour in Washington D.C. and Iowa to meet with lobbyist, elected officals, National Pork Board, National Pork Producers Council, and more.

39

APPLICATIONS OPEN 40

MARCH 1

ST

APPLY AT WWW.TEXASPORK.ORG

A REFELCTION OF THE TEXAS PORK

JUNIOR AMBASSADOR program FROM THE DESK OF THE DIRECTOR OF YOUTH AND COMMUICATIONS

I

will be honest… I wasn’t sure of the direction I wanted to take when I took the job as the Director of Youth and Communications. The questions and rabbit trails circled in my head of what we as an association could do to influence, educate, and grow with the youth involved in Texas agriculture. We as Texans are fortunate enough to have numerous opportunities to show our livestock, compete in educational events, and build a community like no other. However, the question that remained in my mind was what we could do “more.”

Not “more’ in a sense of adding on to what we already have. “More” in a way of building upon the passion these students have gained from being involved in agriculture. “More” as in creating a community of likeminded individuals who want to encourage, educate, and learn from others.

This association is filled with many talented, hardworking, and creative members. With the help of many, we were able to launch the Texas Pork Junior Ambassador program in February 2023. Since then, it has been amazing to watch this program blossom into something truly special. Coming up on the completion of year one, there are a few lessons this first ambassador team has taught me.

Sometimes, a leap of faith is all it takes. Let’s be honest, being the first team to enter a program such as this can be scary. Other than what was listed on our website, they were faced with many unknowns. However, as I sat through their final interviews, you could see that each ambassador had a spark inside of them that firmly believed in our mission of creating visible advocates.

Perspective is everything. I remember asking the group on the very first day of orientation to stay open-minded and patient. We had a solid foundation for the program but were still working on the details in between. To no surprise, they responded by giving us their full trust and encouragement. It would have been easier for the group to become apprehensive to commit so much time to a new program. However, these

students chose to dive in head-first and embrace the experience.

Take the chance to get to know someone new. In all honesty, our first dinner together was awkward.

Each of us briefly knew one another and were trying to come up with basic topics of conversation.

The very next day, the group looked as if they had known one another for years. We always say, “you just had to be there to understand.” Really, I wish you all could have been there to see it. If you ask them, they are like family. Their bond was almost instant.

Lastly, to enjoy the journey. Here we are in 2024 preparing for four new ambassadors to join our team. So far, we have laid the groundwork for creating connections in the industry, enhanced their personal and professional skills, and have exposed the group to multiple assets within the pork and agricultural industries. It is crazy to think how far this program has come in only one year. However, as proud as I am of this team’s accomplishments so far, I can’t wait to see what they will achieve far beyond the junior ambassador program.

The future is bright not only for this team, but for the future of agriculture with individuals like these who have a hunger to serve our industry. As we look forward to welcoming more individuals into this program, I can’t wait to see the impact that the Texas Pork Junior Ambassador program will have for years to come.

Riley Reep

Director of Youth & Communicatoins

41

PAYTON RALSTON YOUTH SPOTLIGHT

I

breeding and raising show pigs for over 40 years. Payton said she found her passion for the industry at a young age and has helped around the farm for as long as she can remember.

The Ralston family has been involved in the pork industry for decades. Payton’s papa, Seth Ralston, and her father have been

“I attended the youth program at the Texas Pork Industry Conference when I was younger where my brother, Preston, and I learned how to artificially inseminate, administer vaccines, and evaluate livestock,” Payton said.

“After this experience, my ability to help with

n the northwest corner of the Texas panhandle, you will find the charming town of Dalhart, Texas, home of many enthusiastic agriculturalists, including Payton Ralston.

Payton is the 17-year-old daughter of Sarah and Wes Ralston and the sister to her brothers, Parker and Preston.

42

chores on the farm was far better. Throughout junior high and high school, my chores on the farm became watching over the farrowing barn and helping sows as needed.”

Through her hard work on the farm, Payton has had the opportunity to raise and exhibit the Reserve Supreme Champion Gilt at the San Angelo Livestock Exposition in 2015, as well as the Grand Champion Barrow at the Tri-State Fair in 2019 and 2023. In addition, she and her two brothers have been successful at the local, state, and national levels with their breeding and show projects.

PAYTON

Payton is involved within the agricultural industry in numerous ways. As a senior at Dalhart High School, she serves as the Dalhart FFA chapter president. She is also a longtime member of the Dallam County 4-H where she has held multiple offices during her high school career. Payton said she is a firm believer that her involvement in FFA and 4-H has shaped her into who she is today.

43

“Through both organizations, I have had the chance to compete in multiple leadership events and speaking events,” Payton said. “I competed at state for three years in an educational presentation with my friend, Georgia Bezner. These events have helped me gain several skills that cannot be learned in the classroom. I will forever cherish the moments that have taught me to be the person that I am today.”

In addition, she has earned her Chapter Greenhand, Outstanding Greenhand, Chapter, Outstanding Junior, and State Lonestar degrees. She is also an active member of the National Honors Society.

Through her accomplishments, Payton has found joy in many ways. However, she said her most rewarding part of being involved in both the pork and agricultural industries has been the individuals she has had the opportunity to meet.

“I think that the most rewarding thing that I have gained through this industry are lifelong friendships,” Payton said. “If it wasn’t for being in the show barn, I never would have met some of the wonderful people I have had the chance to become close to.”

The importance of community is vital to this everyday life we live. Everyone is aware that this life was not meant to be easy, but there is a true beauty how much of an impact a life can leave upon others. In February 2023, Payton and the Ralston family faced the unimaginable as they unexpectedly lost her youngest brother, Preston.

“My world was turned upside down.

He was my best friend. You never found us two separated,” Payton said. “Preston was kind-hearted, had a fierce love for the Lord, and was willing to jump in and help anyone that needed it. He could light up the entire room just by stepping into it. He was the type of person that would love his family and friends so hard, but never wanted to say it.

After losing my brother the days in the show barn were not easy, but I strive to have the determination that he had.”

44

Payton’s favorite bible verse is 2 Corinthians 4:17-18.

“For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So, we fix our eye not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”

Through her perseverance, grace, and faith in the Lord, Payton continues to push forward to live her life to the fullest. When asked what values are the most important to her, she immediately said honesty, trustworthiness, and integrity which has been instilled in her by those she has surrounded herself with.

“Although there have been multiple people that I have looked up to in this industry, there are a few that have and will go above and beyond, “Payton said. “To start off, my dad has been the person that has influenced me the most both in and out of the barn. He has taught me the importance of patience and the willingness to work. He goes out of his way to make sure that I have the best in the barn and cheers me on every step of the way.”

Outside of her immediate family, there are other individuals that have had a tremendous impact on Payton.

“Cody Reep is the next person that I look up to. His kindness to others goes as boundless as the sky and he is the type of person to give their last dollar without a second thought,” Payton said. “Cody has truly been a great role model in my life, and I can’t thank him enough for the lessons that he has built into me.”

In addition, Payton said that fellow TPPA member, Chance Waldrip, has helped her and her family in more ways than one.

“Chance has been a wonderful representation of determination,” Payton said.

“He has taught this our group the importance of determination and hard work. I could not thank these individuals enough for the life qualities that they have instilled in me.”

As for her future, Payton plans to attend a four-year university in the fall to major in nursing. She has hopes to one day become a travel nurse in the pediatric ICU. Payton said once she has a family of her own, she hopes to also receive her license to become an aesthetic nurse.

From all of us at TPPA, we are so proud of Payton and wish her the absolute best in the future!

45

46

INTERNSHIP T

opportunity

he purpose of this internship is for the selected student(s) to become involved in the pork industry by actively engaging in the daily functions of the Texas Pork Producers Association. Intern(s) will not only work to enhance the development & delivery of program activities, but also assist in providing communications & educational opportunities for producers, youth and the public about the pork industry

Applications are due to the TPPA Office by March 15, 2024

RESPONSIBILITIES • Observe the functions of an agricultural organization.

• Gain communications and public relations experience.

• Learn about producer and youth educational programs.

• Learn about marketing, promotional & public relations programs.

• Be involved in the development & implementation of said programs.

• Represent TPPA in a professional & positive manner throughout the internship.

SCHEDULE 10-12 week internship during the summer, with details, will be determined on an individual basis. The intern will be actively involved in various activities and tasks, including but not limited to the following: • Represent TPPA at industry events.

• Assist with marketing & pork promotion; design advertisements, build web content.

• Prepare, organize & carry out functions of the Texas Pork Industry Conference & Youth Symposium, Texas Pork Leadership Camp, and more.

• Be involved in the writing of press releases and feature stories for the Producer Connection magazine and TPPA website.

• Perform daily office tasks including: answering phones, filing, data entry & assisting membership.

SELECTION CRITERIA Applicants must be a Texas resident. In addition, applicants must be a full-time college student with an agricultural-related major that has experience in communications, marketing and journalism FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE The intern will be paid on an hourly basis to help cover expenses. Details will be discussed prior to the beginning of the internship.

APPLICATION PROCESS To apply, please visit our website at www.texaspork.org.

47

2024 AWARD SPONSORS

CTBR TITLE SPONSOR

48

Champion Overall Purebred Rock Award

Champion Overall Crossbred Rock Award

Reserve Champion Overall Purebred Rock Award

Reserve Champion Overall Crossbred Rock Award

BUCKLE SPONSORS BERKSHIRE

CHESTER CHAMPION

CHAMPION

Campbell Farms

JDF Farms

F2 Genetics

RESERVE CHAMPION

RESERVE CHAMPION

RESERVE CHAMPION

E6 Farms

Slott Show Stock

RB2 Showpigs

HAMPSHIRE

LANDRACE

POLAND

Ralston Hog Farm

MT Heart Livestock

Reeves & Smythe Genetics

CHAMPION

CHAMPION

CHAMPION

DUROC

CHAMPION

RESERVE CHAMPION

RESERVE CHAMPION

RESERVE CHAMPION

Kenneth Kensing

MT Heart Livestock

Reeves & Smythe Genetics

SPOT

YORKSHIRE

LIGHT CROSSBRED

TRI Genetics

Real Hog Farm

DL Showpigs

RESERVE CHAMPION

RESERVE CHAMPION

RESERVE CHAMPION

Link Showpigs

Reed Livestock

KMAX Livestock

DIVISION I DARK CROSSBRED

DIVISION II DARK CROSSBRED

DIVISION III DARK CROSSBRED

Rival Genetics

Rival Genetics

Tongate Showpigs

CHAMPION

DARK CROSSBRED CHAMPION

CHAMPION

CHAMPION

Trophies donated & awards created by:

RB2 Showpigs RESERVE CHAMPION

M&S Livestock

Poppers donated by:

Supreme Champion - $5,000 & Cimarron Aluminum Stock Box Reserve Supreme Champion - $3,000 & Cimarron Aluminum Stock Box

49

PARTNERS OF TEXAS’ ELITE SHOWCASE Supporter Level Bonfy & Klein

Texas Tech University

Collaborator Level AmericanTrucks.com

Thank you Sponsors!

Putting on a first-class event like the Elite Showcase would absolutely not be possible without the support of our sponsors! If not for these gracious individuals, we wouldn’t have been able to do as much for the youth as we did. We encourage you to thank these great people and show appreciation to them for stepping up and making Texas’ Elite Showcase a tremendous event for everyone.

50

Innovator Level

y e l n a t S g n u o Y

Gold Level

Platinum Level

51

The Many Flavors OF PORK GROUND PORK WONTONS

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

1 lb. ground pork 1/2 cup water chestnuts (chopped) 1/4 cup shredded cabbage 1 Tbsp. fish sauce 1 Tbsp. soy sauce 1/2 tsp. pepper 1 Tbsp. ginger paste 2 cloves minced garlic 1/4 white onion (finely diced) wonton wrappers 1/4 cup olive oil (for chili oil, + 2 tbsp for skillet) 2 Tbsp. chili flakes 2 Tbsp. dried minced onion 2 Tbsp. dried minced garlic 1 Tbsp. sesame seeds 1 1/2 tsp. salt

1. Begin by preparing the chili oil, preferably a day in advance. However, you can make and serve right away if you’d like.

2. In a small mixing bowl combine 1/4 cup olive oil, chili flakes, dried onion, 2 tbsp dried garlic, sesame seeds and 1/2 tsp salt for the chili oil and set aside.

3. In a medium mixing bowl combine ground pork, water chestnuts, shredded cabbage, fish sauce, soy sauce, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp pepper, ginger paste, garlic cloves and white onion for the filling and combine well.

4. Using a teaspoon or small cookie scoop, form small balls of the filling and place inside a wonton wrapper. Be sure to keep the remaining wonton wrappers in the package as you do this or cover them with a damp paper towel.

5. Using a small amount of water and your finger, wet all 4 edges of the wonton wrapper.

6. Pinch all 4 sides together in the middle and seal the wonton. Repeat until all the filling has been used.

7. In a large skillet over medium high heat, heat 2 tbsp olive oil. Be sure the skillet you choose has a lid.

8. Add about 1/2 of the wontons to the pan and let them brown on one side for 1-2 minutes.

9. Toss them with a wooden spoon in the pan to continue to brown the wontons on all sides for 2-3 minutes.

10. Take 1 tbsp of water and carefully add this to the pan, cover with a lid to finish cooking the wontons by steaming them. Leave covered for 1 minute.

Remove the cooked wontons and repeat with the remaining batch. Cook ground pork to an internal temperature of 160°F. 11. Serve cooked wontons on a platter and drizzle with some of the crispy chili oil and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

52

SPANISH-STYLE PORK TENDERLOIN • • • • • • • •

1 lb. pork tenderloin 2 tsp. olive oil 3/4 tsp. smoked paprika 1/2 tsp. ground coriander 1/4 tsp. salt 1/4 tsp. ground cumin 1/8 tsp. canela 1/8 tsp. black pepper

1. Heat oven to 450 degrees F. Drizzle and rub oil over surface of pork.

2. Combine paprika, coriander, salt, cumin, cinnamon and pepper in small dish. Sprinkle and rub mixture evenly over pork.

3. Place tenderloin on rack in shallow roasting pan. Roast, uncovered, in heated oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until an instant-read thermometer inserted near center reads 145 degrees F. 4. Transfer tenderloin to carving board; loosely cover with foil. Let rest for 5 minutes. Cut into 1/2-inch-thick slices and serve.

53

CHILI & CHEESE GROUND PORK QUESADILLAS • • • • • • • •

1 lb. ground pork 1/2 tsp. salt 1/4 tsp. black pepper 2 Tbsp. chili seasoning blend 1/2 cup black beans (rinsed, drained) 1/2 cup frozen corn (defrosted, drained) 8 whole wheat tortillas (small) 3/4 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend

1. Heat oven to 400°F. Heat large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add ground pork and crumbled, cooking 8-10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in chili seasoning, beans, and corn. Cook about 4 minutes until heated through.

2. Spray baking sheet with cooking spray. Arrange 4 tortillas on baking sheet. Top half of each tortilla with ground pork mixture. Sprinkle with cheese. Fold tortilla in half. Spray top of tortilla with cooking spray. Bake for 11-13 minutes or until quesadillas are lightly browned and edges are crisp.

54

GRILLED PIZZAS WITH HERBED PORK • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

1 lb. boneless pork chops (about 3/4-inch thick) 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil 2 Tbsp. fresh oregano (or 2 teaspoons dried oregano) 2 cloves garlic (minced) 1/2 tsp. salt 1/2 tsp. pepper pizza doughs (Homemade or store-bought) 3 cups Fontina (fontinella cheese, shredded, 12 ounces) 6 Tbsp. Parmesan cheese (freshly grated) fresh oregano (Chopped, for serving, about 1 tablespoon) hot red pepper flakes (for serving, about 1 teaspoon) balsamic reduction (Store-bought, for serving, optional) 3 cups flour (plus more as needed and for rolling out) 2 1/4 tsp. instant yeast (or bread-machine yeast, 1 envelope) 1 tsp. sugar 1 tsp. salt 2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil (plus more for bowl) 1 cup cold water (as needed) 1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil 12 oz. brussels sprouts (ends trimmed, thinly sliced in a food processor or by hand, about 4 cups) 1/2 tsp. salt 1/4 tsp. pepper

1. To make homemade pizza dough: Pulse flour, yeast, sugar and salt in food processor to combine. Add oil.With machine running, gradually add enough water through feed tube until dough forms a rough ball that rides on top of blade.(Feel dough, and add 1 tablespoon flour if too wet, or 1 tablespoon water if too dry.)Process for 45 seconds to knead dough.(To make by hand: combine water, oil, yeast, sugar and salt in large bowl.Gradually stir in enough flour to make a stiff, sticky dough.Turn out onto floured work surface and knead, adding more flour as needed, until dough is soft, supple and slightly sticky, 8 to 10 minutes.)

2. Gather dough into a ball.Place in oiled medium bowl and turn to lightly coat with oil.Cover with plastic wrap and let stand in a warm place until doubled, about 1 1/4 hours.(If desired, let covered dough rise in refrigerator for 16 to 24 hours.Bring to room temperature before using.)

3. To marinate pork: Combine oil, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper in one-gallon sealable plastic bag.Add pork, close bag, and coat with marinade.Refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours.Let stand at room temperature for 15 minutes before grilling.

4. To cook Brussels sprouts: Heat oil in large skillet over high heat.Add Brussels sprouts and cook, stirring often, until lightly browned, about 4 minutes.Add 2 tablespoons water and cook until crisp-tender, about 2 minutes more. Season with salt and pepper.Transfer to bowl and let cool.

5. Prepare outdoor grill for direct cooking with medium-high heat (about 400 degrees F.).Brush grill grates clean.Remove pork from marinade, shaking off excess oil.Grill, with grill lid closed, turning once, until the internal temperature reads between 145 degrees F. (medium rare) to 160 degrees F. (medium) on a digital meat thermometer, 6 to 8 minutes.Transfer to carving board and let cool. Chop pork into a 1/2-inch dice and transfer to a bowl.

6. To grill pizzas: Cut 5 squares of parchment paper about 9 inches square each. Punch down dough and cut into four equal pieces. Shape dough into balls, place on work surface, loosely cover with plastic wrap, and let stand 10 minutes.On very lightly floured work surface, roll and stretch each dough portion into 7- to 8-inch rounds (makes 4 pizzas). Place each round on a parchment square.Stack rounds on paper on large baking sheet.Loosely cover with plastic wrap.

7. Brush grill grate clean. In batches if necessary, transfer dough rounds from parchment onto grill, discarding parchment.Grill, with the lid closed, occasionally rotating rounds, until underside is seared with grill marks, 2 to 3 minutes.Adjust heat as needed – do not burn the dough!

8. Flip dough rounds and top with one-quarter each of Brussels sprouts and pork, followed by the Fontina and Parmesan cheese.Cover and continue cooking with the lid closed, occasionally rotating dough rounds so they don’t stick, until undersides are golden brown, 3 to 4 minutes more.

9. Remove from grill.Sprinkle with oregano and red pepper flakes, drizzle with balsamic glaze, if using, and serve immediately.

55

You Deserve to be Recognized!

JIM MCMANIGAL / CHUCK REAL OUTSTANDING SWINE VOLUNTEER AWARD The Jim McManigal / Chuck Real Outstanding Swine Volunteer Award is to recognize outstanding adult volunteers who have shown excellent involvement and contributions to the FFA and 4-H swine programs on the local level. Producers are encouraged to nominate individuals for this award. All applications are reviewed and selection is determined by the TPPA Awards Committee.

Nomination Process: • Nominations will be accepted from current members of the TPPA. • Nominations consist of a letter of recommendation describing the level of involvement and contribution to the FFA and 4-H swine programs, in addition to the form found online. Additional letters of support or verification will be accepted and considered.

TEXAS HERITAGE PIG PRODUCTION Has your family been in pig production for 50 years or more?

Apply now for the Texas Heritage Pig Production Award!

OWNERSHIP / PRODUCTION REQUIREMENTS 1. Pigs must have been continuously owned and produced by family members for two or more generations for at least 50 years.

2. The line of ownership from the first family member producing pigs to the current owner(s) may be through wives, husbands, children, grandparents, siblings, aunts, uncles and cousins. Adopted children will be recognized equally with biological children. The line of ownership and approximate dates of ownership need to be included in the application.

3. Any pig production that has been sold or is in the process of being sold or leased to a non-relative is ineligible.

4. Owner or co-owner must actively manage and direct the everyday pig operation of the farm. Absentee ownership of production does not qualify.

APPLICATIONS ARE AVAILABLE AT TEXASPORK.ORG

DEADLINE:

APRIL 1, 2024 Texas Heritage Pig Production and the Jim McManigal / Chuck Real Outstanding Swine Volunteer Awards will be presented at the Awards Banquet held in conjunction with the Texas Pork Industry Conference on May 18th in San Marcos, Texas.

56

CERTIFIED TEXAS BRED REGISTRY

BREEDER DIRECTORY

DRIVEN BY BREEDERS. SERVING YOUTH. PROMOTING TEXAS.

The Texas Pork Producers Association is not split into regions. The map provided was created for convenience and ease of finding breeders near you!

57

Breeder Directory

Garrett Northern High Plains Taler Garrett Livestock Nick Albracht IDK Genetics Amarillo (806) 433-1896

Nathan Ashby Ashby Showpigs Hale Center (940) 783-2139 Michael Bowman Bowman Livestock Crowell (940) 655-4770 Kyle Butler Claude (806) 236-8883 Breleigh Butler Claude (806) 236-8883 Addison Butler Claude (806) 236-8883 Mike Clay CLAY FARMS White Deer Michael Cordova Circle C Genetics Chillicothe (806) 632-1288 Joe Couts Joe Couts Show Pigs Pampa (806) 669-6278 Chris Fischbacher Fischbacher Showpigs Wildorado (806) 336-2162 Gene Frische TRI Genetics Dalhart (806) 333-5935

58

Chillicothe (940) 839-7027

Clint Newbrough Newbrough Showpigs Memphis (940) 475-1662

Brent Hamrick HD Showpigs Quanah (940) 839-9076

Gary Patterson Gary Patterson Livestock Hale Center (806) 418-0759

Robbie & Keith Harkey HARKEY FARMS Hale Center (806) 778-7810

Seth Ralston RALSTON HOG FARM Dalhart (806) 773-6989

Levon Harman Double Heart Hogs of Happy Happy (806) 759-1890

Jett Ramaekers Nazareth (806) 647-7372

Wayne & Leslie Harman Harman Farms Perryton (806) 202-2176 Lance Horsford Horsford Show Pigs Stratford (806) 930-3299 Kevin Howell Kevin Howell Hogs White Deer (806) 570-2540 Zac Huseman Nazareth (806) 647-9435 Collin & Courtney Kattner Kattner Farms Petersburg (806) 777-4056 Trace McBride McBride Livestock Canyon (806) 474-5167

Kirk Saul Quitaque (806) 217-1578 Billy Wayne, Lesa & Easton Schafer Canadian (806) 217-1192 Kip Smith Kip Smith Showpigs Hereford (806) 206-2482 Ronnie Allen & Stacy Henry BRS Hog Farm Crowell (940) 655-4747 Shane & Tatum Swenhaugen Rival Genetics Canadian (806) 202-4789 Kent Tice Triple Creek Show Hogs Borger (806) 898-2100 Weldon Walser Walser Farms / Hot Rod Genetics Canadian (806) 323-2290

Ronnie Ward Doe Creek Show Pigs Wellington (806) 898-3015

Jason & Amanda Campbell Campbell Farms Abernathy (806) 787-9664

Billy Wiggs Clarendon (806) 290-3774

Meredith Couts Tribe Genetics Wolfforth (806) 663-0156

Burt & Kevin Williams Williams Livestock Canyon (806) 676-4334

Hunter Cudd Cudd Farms Brownfield (806) 300-5850

Southern High Plains AJ Diaz Brian Acevedo ACE Show Pigs Littlefield (806) 340-2764

Brett Atkinson Atkinson Show Pigs Lubbock (806) 422-1632 Denny Belew Belew Farms Tahoka (806) 470-0969 Todd and Moriah Beyers Beyers Farms, TX Abernathy (806) 252-5204

3D Showpigs Ralls (806) 999-6179 Brice Easter E6 Farms Post (806) 441-2009 Tyler Endicott Twisted Edge Genetics Lubbock (806) 781-4289 Dwight & Jarrot Foote JDF Farms Seminole (432) 847-6884

Brandon & Ethan Biggs BIGGS LIVESTOCK Plainview

Jason Foote Foote Farms Lubbock (432) 209-1020

Morgan Boyd Boyd Family Genetics Lamesa (806) 759-8463

Jace Francis Francis Farms Silverton (806) 292-1848

Shawn Brewer Brewer Dry Land Farms, LLC. Lubbock (806) 239-5770

Brad Gaydos Slaton (806) 535-6246 Lupe Gonzales Lamesa (806) 200-3662

Kelby&Branden O’Brien/ Hagen Montgomery Four Five Livestock Lamesa (806) 200-3624 Warren Hatley Hatley Show Stock Shallowater (809) 789-5317 Michael & Myles Heinrich M2 Livestock Tahoka (806) 778-4514 Chad, Misty & Tucker Hill Chad Hill Durocs & Hill Stud Lubbock (806) 433-7787 Jonathan Hisey Hi-Ho Genetics Lubbock (806) 281-7973 Heath Hodges LA Farms Slaton (806) 782-8595 Bryan Hutchings Play Big Genetics Lamesa (806) 759-3446 Stan Johnson SNJ Livestock Ropesville (817) 304-3534 Wesley Jones JH Showpigs Plainview (806) 778-5011 Josh Jordan MRM Showpigs Slaton (806) 781-2429

59

Breeder Directory

Tadd, Cameron, & Scotta Knight Knight Show Pigs Shallowater (217) 653-0528

Delton & Dusti Osborn 3rd Day Genetics Justiceburg (806) 559-1012

Jay & Will Winter Wintex Farms Lubbock (806) 438-2986

Josh Krohn DL SHOW PIGS Lamesa (806) 438-2916

Jacob McKillip & Owen Seidenberger M&S Livestock Slaton (765) 337-5792

North Texas

Heath & Gene Link Link Showpigs New Home (806) 241-4750 Sophia Lopez LB Showpigs Plains (806) 831-2972

Dan Patterson Patterson Purebreds Littlefield (806) 778-2452 Presley Pleasant Lorenzo (806) 778-7301

Benito Lopez Circle L Swine Whitharral (806) 893-4951

Oliver Rusher Sweet Tooth Farms Plainview (806) 685-1941

Lilly McKillip M&S Livestock Slaton (253) 330-9997

Shane Shobert RED RAIDER GENETICS Spur (806) 269-1313

Kevin Methvin Methvin Hog Farm Levelland (806) 638-5140

Jay Sprabeary Strive Livestock Lubbock (806) 470-6572

Landry Miller Miller Show Pigs Abernathy

Timbo, Michelle, Tatum & Grace Tatsch Tatsch Livestock Ropesville (832) 385-6071

Brock Milloy MC Show Pigs Seminole (254) 631-3380 Chad Orum Orum Showpigs Seminole (806) 535-9144

60

Kenneth Thomason KT Show Pigs Spur (806) 422-0054 Dustin Urbantke Muleshoe (806) 638-0099

Garrett Cox & Claire McCormick S Squared Showpigs Weatherford (254) 652-7110 Michelle Barnes Rockin CM Showpigs Gilmer (903) 841-0930 Tammy Bates TNT Showpigs Grandview (817) 615-0924 Barry Beste BR Farms Whitesboro (903) 815-5448 Brad Massey & Blake Edwards Blazin 7’s Farms & Edwards Family Genetics Mineral Wells (940) 682-6355 Glen & Zac Blount Blount Farms Denison (903) 814-4900 Ed & Eddy Bradshaw Bradshaw Family Showpigs Sherman (903) 815-8123 Josh & Landi Campbell C Bar Livestock Grandview (817) 266-2101 Chuck Cox Cox and Sons Royse City (469) 338-9621

Chase Craighead Craighead Showpigs Vernon (940) 887-9250 Mike Fischer Fischer Show Pigs Iowa Park (940) 642-5653 J.R. Fortner FORTNER SHOW PIGS Anna (214) 878-2714 Ron Foster Telephone James Glenn G2 Showpigs Waxahachie (462) 236-2045

Donald Isenburg Lone Oak (903) 450-5743 Sarah Johns Boyd (817) 629-6818 Carl & Blair Kent Carl Kent & Sons Pottsboro (903) 271-5128 Kelly Kinnibrugh Kinnibrugh Showpigs Seymour (940) 636-0433 Justin Lacy Lacy Livestock Sherman

Shane Kate Glenn Waxahachie (469) 236-2045

Rodie Lawhorn RC Livestock Carthage (903) 754-7303

Seth Hall Legacy Genetics Vernon (940) 839-6957

Tanner Hash & Michael Cowley Exceed Genetics Scotland (940) 631-2337

Jarod Hamm Crazy H Showpigs Ennis (972) 935-4136

Rick Moeller BLT Swine Weinert

Brian Haynes Haynes Farms Vernon (940) 886-7338 Bryan Hemming Hemming Farms Sherman (903) 267-1192 Mike Howe Howe’s Silvertex Farm Gainesville (940) 736-6398

Kenzy Morgan Diamond M Genetics Point (903) 268-1211 Lyla Pankey Pankey Showpigs Jacksboro (940) 229-1713 Gary, Luke & Jake Parr Parr Livestock Farmersville (214) 463-8133

Mark Pethtel Pethtel Bauwin Show Pigs Valley View (940) 367-4810 Russell Ramsey RAMAC Showpigs Oklaunion (940) 886-8866 Daryl & Kyle Real Real Livestock Sanger (972) 898-6657 Dan, Ragen & Ryland Reed Reed Livestock Krum (817) 706-7259 Brian Reznicek Reznicek Show Pigs Kaufman (972) 965-8423 Michael Russell Russell Showpigs Sherman (903) 819-9728 Bob, Brad, Gary Schnitker Schnitker Family Farm Howe (806) 269-1422 Dub Stepp Twister Show Pigs Cleburne (817) 517-4302 Teagan & Bracken Taylor ET Showpigs Wichita Falls (940) 224-3695 Kevin Thomas THOMAS SHOWPIGS Jacksboro (940) 507-0772

61

Breeder Directory

Josh Vincent Vincent Farms Nocona (903) 821-8638 Charles,Savanna, and Kiya Williams WILLIAMS SHOWPIGS Nocona (940) 233-2375 Lexi York York Family Genetics Valley View (940) 736-6127 L.J. Young All-Star Show Pigs Paradise (765) 810-4029 Dan & Banner Young Young Livestock Burkburnett (940) 631-8339

East Texas

Cheyenne Swor Pine Cone Showpigs Diboll (936) 465-0309

Taylor Gittins Superior Showpigs Conroe (832) 657-4342

South East Texas

David & Debbie Harris Harris Farms Pearland (281) 253-4948

Corey Atchison Atchison Show Hogs Rosharon (713) 839-5775

Chris Jones & Brian Bennett J&B Livestock Conroe (936) 446-0725 Josh & Carrie Brockman Brockman Farms Montgomery (214) 733-2466 Jeff Miller Craig Melton Double M Genetics Waller (713) 823-2042

Courtney Clark CRC Show Pigs Centerville (281) 330-8782

Daniel & Lance Engeling DANIEL & LANCE ENGELING SHOW PIGS Breham (979) 203-8279

Laramie Dickson Dickson Showpigs Montalba (903) 721-1019

Walt Fehrle KMW Show Pigs Burton (281) 682-6868

Jayden Levrets Striped Shadow Showpigs Flint (903) 780-0997

Chris Finke Navasota (936) 825-2107

Monty and Jennifer McGill McGill Show Pigs Buffalo (903) 338-1897 Baylee Simmons Diamond S Ranch Midway (936) 537-7348

62

Avery Ford Ford Showpigs Franklin (979) 324-7268 Christian Fridye Fridye Livestock Brenham (979) 277-8059

Jake Herman Rowan Ranch Dayton (281) 806-0071 Charles Hodde HODDE FARMS Burton (979) 251-4718 Megan & David Hoyt Twisted H Showpigs Silsbee (409) 781-0954 Jacie Hoyt Twisted H Showpigs Silsbee (409) 781-0954 Thomas Kaminski Kaminski Show Pigs Needville (979) 709-2233 Darrell Kieke DK Farms Burton (979) 451-3441 Jason Knight 4J Genetics Alvin (832) 877-1890 Kevin Lynch LYNCH LIVESTOCK Cleveland (832) 493-3099

Kelton Mason The Stud Montgomery (936) 232-2124 Matthew McKinley McKinley Show Pigs Conroe (936) 203-4258 Larry Pape Brenham (979) 277-8806 Robby Perkins Perkins Family Genetics Houston

South Texas

Leodoro Martinez & Jay Longino ML4 Showpigs Cotulla (830) 457-4702 Elroy Alex III Frozen Genetics Showpigs Victoria (361) 655-8084 Rene Ballin K3 Showpigs Santa Rosa (956) 536-5299

Avis Pouncy Avis Pouncy & Teresa Kelly Sealy

Samantha Barber Barber Hog Farm Devine (830) 741-0300

Clayton Schram Schram Livestock Sealy (979) 627-5665

Leo Canales C & P Livestock Odem (361) 877-2640

Ricky Schroeder Schroeder Genetics Anderson (936) 825-1390

Cody Carroll Carroll Livestock Dilley (830) 965-6430

Joshua Slott Slott Show Stock New Waverly (936) 661-7146

Ron Clark Clark Genetics Odem (361) 765-9126

Breckyn Slott New Waverly (936) 661-7146

Tristen Cruz South Texas Genetics Brownsville (956) 238-0467

Bristol Slott New Waverly (936) 661-7146 Harold (Choppie) White Lone Star Super Hogs Bryan (979) 777-4180

Emily Fish Helotes (832) 314-9686 Cleve and Cooper Ford 4F Livestock Weslaco (956) 472-8088

Gary Franz Franz Show Pigs Inez (361) 935-6428 Javier Garza G5 Showpigs Raymondville (956) 532-4297 Jonn Goldammer Goldammer Showstock La Blanca (956) 874-8047 Modesto Gonzalez Jolly Roger Show Pigs Mission (956) 905-5738 Jimmy & Cassidy Hayes HF Genetics Port Lavaca (361) 920-1015 Garrett Henke H Squared Genetics Hallettsville (361) 772-2031 Tanner Hoskins Victoria (361) 571-1418 Drew Hubert Drew Hubert Show Pigs Riviera (361) 296-4530 Jason Mendez Sebastian (956) 245-2572 Jamey Nixon Nixon Farms Woodsboro (361) 649-6712

63

Breeder Directory

Chad, Carly, Harper, Yancey & Briar Parson P5 Show Swine Devine (210) 219-2241 Josh Powell Powell Livestock Jourdanton (830) 214-4138 Darryl, Teri Derek & Kelli Ressmann Ressmann Showpigs Refugio (361) 526-9159

Kotton West KMAX Livestock Taft (361) 877-5369

Steve, Zach & Kyle Bradshaw Seco Land & Livestock Friona (940) 210-9692

Heart of Texas

Thomas & Rhonda Burell Triple Burell Showpigs D’hanis (210) 216-8656

Doug Alderson Alderson Farms Seguin (210) 296-4479

Barrett & Baeley Allerkamp ALLERKAMP FARMS Comfort (830) 739-5631

Matthew Rogers Circle R Showpigs Inez (361) 648-7697

Greg Baethge Baethge Showpigs Harper (830) 889-0625

Jeremy Rounsavall Rounsavall Show Pigs Robstown (903) 641-2055

Troy Baker Baker Genetics Bremond (979) 324-7648

Noe Santana Santana Genetics Alamo (956) 685-9403

Bobby Balser RB2 Showpigs Kerrville (830) 739-6593

Gilbert Sullaway Superior Choice Genetics Helotes (210) 284-8686

Garrett Bankston Bankston Show Pigs Del Valle (512) 497-3026

Scot Sullivan S&W Swine Productions Robstown (361) 960-6725

Cliff & Coby Berger Berger Farms Giddings (979) 540-7004

Trent & Jami Watson Watson Livestock Cuero (361) 275-4151

Bob Bishop Bishop’s Show Pigs Pfflugerville (512) 751-8654

Bromli Watson Watson Livestock Cuero (361) 275-4151

Marvin Boeck Boeck Show Pigs Converse (210) 414-3569

64

Charles Ely & Chris Hohmann C-C Show Pigs Sisterdale (210) 887-5708 Troy Cole Cole Farms LaCoste (210) 462-6157 Shelley & Stephen Conran Conran’s 3C Show Pigs New Braunfels (512) 789-7480 Trent Corkran Corkran Genetics Pleasanton (830) 560-0691 Tracey Cortez Lanier FFA Swine Program Austin (512) 923-2633 Clyde & Kathy Culver Culver Show Pigs Boerne (210) 827-2258 Josh Diaz D2 Livestock Bandera Tim Doege Doege Show Pigs St. Hedwig (210) 667-9627

Blake Dooley Oak Valley Farm Round Top (979) 421-3572

Scott Heffernan Heffernan Genetics Poteet (830) 570-7540

Barret Klein Bonfy & Klein Boerne (940) 838-8300

Dillon Doyle Dripping Springs (512) 638-7526

Roger Herridge Herridge Showpigs Llano (512) 809-1297

Kerby Knaupp KERBY KNAUPP SHOWPIGS INC. Fredericksburg (830) 459-4826

Michael DuBois 4M Show Pigs Troy (936) 402-6915 Rory Duelm Duelm’s Prevailing Genetics New Braunfels (830) 608-5058 Diane Elrod Elrod’s Show Pigs Iredell (210) 601-6164 Kenneth Fey Fey Show Pigs Stockdale (830) 481-3162 Johnnie Flores F-2 Genetics Castroville (210) 596-3024 Vince Franckowiak Franckowiak Show Pigs St. Hedwig (210) 336-9428 Aaron Griffith McDade (512) 934-8827 Chad Hajda Hajda Showpigs Granger (512) 423-2434 Michael & Lizzie Harkins Squealin-N-Dealin Show Pigs Liberty Hill (512) 689-1516

George & Michelle Hofauer H-5 Hog Farm Falls City (210) 394-4292 James Holder R&J Showpigs China Spring (254) 205-9971 Chad Hopson Hopson Showpigs Lampasas (512) 734-2122 Curtis W. Houy Houy Hog Farm Fredericksburg (830) 889-8457 Robert & Faye Huebner Robert and Faye Huebner Kingsbury (830) 660-7101 Mark Johnston MJ Livestock Troy (254) 624-8341 Kolton Kelso Kelso Genetiks Seguin (210) 240-6710 Josie Kessler 5K Farms La Vernia (210) 995-1421

Russell & Jamie Kneese Kneese Show Pigs Fredericksburg (830) 456-3298 Luke Lindner Lindner Showpigs Comfort (830) 377-0969 Robert Loyd Loyd Livestock Troy (254) 493-1839 Randall Maxwell Maxwell Showpigs Marble Falls (830) 798-4246 Grant Meyer Meyer Showpigs Harper (830) 459-8645 Kally Meyer Meyer Swine Farm Lott (254) 654-7123 Mike Mikeska Mikeska Showpigs Rogers John Olle & Morgan Wagner Southern Superior Show Pigs Pleasanton (830) 570-1331

65

Breeder Directory

John Moyers Sure Success Show Pigs San Antonio (210) 601-3533

Landon & Wayne Rode W. Rode & Sons Fredericksburg (830) 456-4357

Dan & Don Steele Steele Hog Farm Temple (254) 984-2479

Robert Munzer Munzer Farms Bastrop (512) 887-9085

Ben & Tricia Rush Rush Pig Farm Mart (254) 652-2443

Erin, Clara & James Steglich Steglich Show Pigs Holland (254) 718-4983

Matt & Taylor Murdoch MT Heart Livestock Marion (830) 556-3942

Johnny R. Sanchez Double S Farms Poteet (210) 414-2830

Greg Sutherland Sutherland Farm Stockdale (210) 872-2808

Fabian Mutz Jr. 5M Genetics Floresville (830) 391-1783

Clarence Schmidt Clarence Schmidt Center Point (830) 634-2117

Lacey Swearingin Swearingin Family Livestock Valley Mills (254) 420-7107

Gerald Naegelin Done Right Show Pigs Lytle (210) 592-3592

Mike Schneider Bohemian Farms Show Pigs Burlington (254) 721-4162

Joshua Nors Nors Showpigs Abbott (254) 715-1520

Mayson Schulze SCHULZE SHOWPIGS Seguin (830) 433-0486

Michael Tatsch Michael Tatsch & Family Showpigs Harper (830) 370-2127

Cory & Lacey Rains Rains Livestock Fredericksburg (325) 236-0593

Alan Shipp Two Ton Showpigs Bertram (512) 557-9531

Desiree Ramirez Van Ormy (210) 777-2479

David Solomon Pigs From 662 Bandera (210) 232-5260

Chuck Real Real Hog Farms Marion (210) 827-7351 Jason Roane Jason Roane Show Pigs Campbellton (210) 508-5960

Patrick & Kyle Spinn Spinn Farms Holland (254) 913-6284 Dan Steele Steele Hog Farm Temple

Michael & Mason Taylor TAYLOR’D GENETICS Salado (254) 947-8490 Jarrod & Carole Usener Usener Livestock Fredericksburg (830) 992-1040 Jeremy Walter WG Showpigs La Vernia (210) 823-5424 Nash Waltman Boerne (210) 269-6565 Hannah Weaver Leander (512) 579-9203 Raylee J Weiss Piage (512) 663-1517

66

Avri Wells AWE Durocs Salado (254) 228-7526

Jay & Heath Boren Rising Star Genetics Rising Star (254) 334-8484

Randy Edwards 24J Showpigs Clyde (325) 370-2185

Jay White White’s Farm Showpigs Bremond (979) 450-3020

Tatum and Katie Braden Garden City (432) 268-3275

Dawson Evans Evans Showpigs Early (325) 642-6634

Denny Wiatrek Wiatrek Livestock Poth (830) 534-6012 Trent Williams Shaded W Show Pigs Giddings (979) 540-9722 Diron Wunderlich Wunderlich Show Pigs Spring Branch (830) 237-6644 Robert York Point Enterprise Show Pigs Mexia (254) 292-3508

West Texas

Curry & Matt Allen Allen Farms Ovalo (325) 370-6924 Larsyn Allen Ovalo (325) 668-0532 Kim Baize West Texas Boar Stud Stamford (325) 665-8048 Riley Bilbrey Abilene (325) 370-6534

David Bragg Bragg Farms Stephenville (254) 977-4141 Colt Caffey Bo-Pop Genetics Sidney (254) 842-1046 Aaron Carpenter 2C Farms Girard (806) 284-2464

Leon Freeman Freeman Showpigs Lohn (325) 456-0863 Shaun & Leslie Galovich Galovich Farms Tuscola (325) 668-9375 Mason Garner UNDERDOG GENETICS Lawn

Jim & Beverly Cogburn C-4 Show Pigs Colorado City (325) 242-5503

Choyr Gilbert 109 Show Swine Midland (432) 894-2444

Keith Cook Stanton (432) 661-0339

Clint Gross Andrews (432) 661-9868

Ben & Misty Cozart Cozart Family Genetics Zephyr (254) 433-2201

Clint & Julie Halfmann West Texas Genetics Vancourt (402) 429-4946

Stan Creed Creed Showpigs Sweetwater (325) 864-0274

Dakota Hankins Hankins Show Pigs Hico (254) 974-2222

Justin Duncan 3D Livestock Bangs (325) 642-2188

Canon Harris CC Harris Livestock Cisco (325) 450-0796

Chris Edgar Albany (817) 964-8565

Harvey Schwertner & Todd Helms Schwertner Show Pigs Miles (432) 894-5904

67

Breeder Directory

Annabelle Hill Early (325) 864-4239 Cody Holaway Heads Up Genetics Bridgeport (940) 389-7921

Ted Merryman Merryman Show Pigs Clyde (325) 669-7597

Cameron Price Price Showpigs Stepenville (254) 485-0998

Gary Mills Fort Stockton (432) 923-3082

Paige Price DWFW Albany (325) 762-6472

Austin Jenkins CR’Z J Livestock May (325) 800-8137

Brandon Mitchell Mitchell Livestock Midland (432) 528-1585

Todd Gregory & Kelley O’Brien GO Genetics Ackerly (806) 577-2400

Sam Morton Morton Livestock Early (325) 998-6805

Joshua Kunselman R&K Genetics Stepenville (254) 485-3528

Brad Mund Mund Livestock Wall (325) 456-8430

Jason Lackey Lackey Livestock Haskell (806) 787-3606

J. T. & Kelli Naron JT & Kelli Naron Merkel (325) 660-2183

John, Amy, Jacob, & Lauren Lange Lange Livestock Miles (325) 895-0961

Billy Bob Orsagh Big Much Genetics Cisco (254) 488-1053

Heather Leal J&H Livestock Chico (940) 210-1161 Kelby McCorkle SILVER VALLEY SHOW PIGS Coleman (325) 214-4130 Clinton McKeehan Keystone Show Pigs Trent (325) 660-9065

68

Dale Partin 4P Show Pigs Priddy (325) 451-0370 Robbie & Shannon Phillips Phillips Showpigs Roscoe (806) 891-3136 Emma Polnack Polnack Show Pigs Sweetwater (325) 338-3223

Mike Pruitt Midland (432) 296-1819 Brian Bennett and Ralph Stock Bennett Show Pigs and High Demand Genetics Stephenville (254) 396-4400 Cole & Melissa Reeves Reeves and Smythe Genetics Hico (254) 624-3080 Allen & Aiden Richburg Richburg Show Pigs Roscoe (325) 236-5666 Shane Roach Roach Livestock Palo Pinto (940) 329-8885 Burke & Cami Robinson R4 Genetics Putnam (325) 669-6636 Douglas Schaefer SCHAEFER LIVESTOCK Garden City (432) 517-0352 Morgan Scott Lazy S Show Pigs Colorado City (224) 425-1596

Owen Seidenberger M & S Livestock Garden City (432) 264-8090

Maycon Stork Stork Livestock Hico (254) 485-4056

David Shipp Shipp Shape Genetics Roby (325) 370-0102

Logan Taylor TP Showpigs Graham (817) 851-8324

Delvin Shomaker Pecan Creek Showpigs San Angelo (325) 374-8284

Warren & Max Tongate Tongate Showpigs Early (325) 647-5200

Sam Sparger Sam Sparger & Family DeLeon (254) 842-4008

Oakley Torres Robert Lee (432) 234-9081

Mandy & Todd Stevenson Stevenson Livestock Hamlin (325) 603-8292

Sheila Unger Rockin U Show Pigs Breckenridge (325) 665-4416

Shelia Unger Anjo Farms/Wilde/ Rockn’n U Show Pigs Breckenridge (325) 665-4416 Terry Utley Utley Farms Knox City (940) 256-3288 Will, Peggy & Brenna Wallace U4 Farm Sonora (830) 833-5335 Jody Walton Walton Show Pigs Sweetwater (325) 338-5727 Marty, Jacob & Zach Weishuhn Weishuhn Brothers Show Pigs San Angelo (325) 656-2629

Every season brings new opportunities — to be more efficient, to expand your operation, to increase your yield. There’s always hope for something more or better. We’re here to help you achieve it with lending and insurance products that help you grow and protect your operation. And as the largest agricultural lending cooperative in Texas, we offer cooperative returns to our members. So you share in our success. Now that’s something to be optimistic about. To learn more, visit CapitalFarmCredit.com.

877.944.5500 NMLS493828

69

B

F IE

EST

D • CE R T RE I

• C ER TI

B

• TE XA D IE S F

D •

T EX

AS

sale results

The second Certified Texas Best Genetic Offering sale will be held on the evening of Friday, May 17th in conjunction with this year’s annual conference. This sale features the top 25 breeders from the 2023-2024 year according to points accumulated within the CTBR Program.

Be sure to plan on attending this sale and the 2024 Texas Pork Industry Conference in May!

save the date May 17 in San Marcos,TX Location will be announced soon

70

71

NEW YEAR. NEW LOOK.

Visit www.texaspork.org to view our new website and sign up for the monthly newsletter.

72

Producer Connection

Advertisers index Adams Fabrication............................................................75 Campbell Farms................................................................76 Capital Farm Credit...........................................................69 Creative Awards.................................................................46 DL Showpigs.............................................Inside Back Cover HF Genetics......................................................................23 JBS Live Pork...................................................................10 Kennedy Ventures.....................................Inside Front Cover MoorMans ShowTec..........................................................19 Rains Livestock...................................................................3 Real Hog Farm.................................................................74 Showpig.com......................................................................7 Tongate Showpigs..............................................................18

73

NO WORRIES

NO PROBLEM X NEXT INTENTION X MANHATTAN X PEACE MAKER

Purchased from DL Show Pigs. Moderate framed and powerful. Many banners in his pedigree.

COUNTRY BONE

Semen from 22 great Herdsires available 7 days a week.

Check out our website at www.realhogfarms.net

SPARTAN

STEP AHEAD X TRADE UP

DROP KICK X SPARTACUS

Popular York Boar purchased at the SW Conference.

His pigs are heavy structured and easy to sell.

Great combination of Eggers and Rodibaugh genetics. His pigs have a great look and are the best structured Durocs we have had in years.

GOOSE

MAINLINE

TOP GUN X CHATTER

HHLINEUP X HHOUTSIDE THE

Bred by Harvey and purchased at the SW Conference. Great Structure!

Champion Berk Boar from Belton. He is big footed, stout boned, super clean fronted with plenty of muscle. His pigs have been very popular with our customers.

REALHOGFARMS.COM - 15492 REAL ROCK RD. - MARION, TEXAS 78124

CHUCK REAL 210.827.7351 - RUSSELL REAL 210.216.2688 - JOSH BROWN 210.296.5564 74

75

15 litters

SHOW PIGS

FOR THE FALL SHOW SEASON BERKS, CHESTERS, DUROCS, POLANDS & CROSSBREDS

CONGRATS STANTON FAMILY

CONGRATS STEPHENSON FAMILY

SALE MAKING BARROW | SAN ANTONIO

SALE MAKING BARROW | SAN ANTONIO

Good Luck

on your senior show season, Reilly Campbell!

2ND PLACE BARROW HOUSTON

76

ABERNATHY, TX JASON | 806.787.9664 STETSON | 806.474.2281

Sydney Miller

GRAND CHAMPION MARKET BARROW RODEO AUSTIN 2023 Kenley Krohn

Kenley Krohn

Gavin air Sincl

Kenley Krohn

MULTI-TIME GRAND CHAMPION GILT

CTBR CLASS CHAMPION CROSSBRED • SAN ANTONIO

CHAMPION MIDDLE WEIGHT DARK CROSS • SAN ANTONIO

RES. MEDIUM WEIGHT CROSSBRED BARROW • HOUSTON

$60,000 HIGH SELLING GILT

Zane Humphreys

Hagan Williamson

TEXAS ELITE SHOWCASE

THIRD PLACE CROSSBRED BARROW • SAN ANTONIO

PREMIUM SALE MAKING BARROW • SAN ANTONIO

w w w . d l s h ow p i g s . co m JOSH & BRIDGETTE KROHN 806.438.2916 • 806.759.7735

you won’t want to miss it.

ICONIConeEVENTS major

IMPACT.

ONE TWO weekend

ELITE EVENTS

KINGS #1

SEPTEMBER 7

comfort, tx SEPTEMBER 28 tbd.

KINGS #2

KERRVILLE, TEXAS

SEPTEMBER 7

comfort, tx