Pig Tales Issue 1 2015

P

IG TALES

Issue 1 2015

The Official Publication of the Kansas Pork Industry

The types of Outrage Factors driving Message Believability include Control (significant in 17 models), Process (significant in 12 models), Fairness, Familiarity and Voluntariness (all significant in one model).

controversial and complex, which is the case with antibiotic resistance.

Most message elements predicting Believability on antibiotic resistance were common across all three Messengers, including Fundamental Message Elements and Outrage Factors.

Believability vary by Messenger and the elements predicting message Believability were different for each Messenger. The models are still valid, but additional issue-specific testing will help further define which elements are more impactful by Messenger for more controversial issues.

Cracking the Code on Food Issues

Impacts on Believability Elements impacting Believability are more consistent across all three Messengers when the issue is less

With a more controversial and complex issue like GM ingredients in food, the messages necessary to promote

TRUSTED INFORMATION SOURCES

Here’s where Moms, Millennials and Foodies go for food system information.

MOMS

Websites (21%)

Family - Not online (12%) Google (12%) Local TV Station (12%) Friends - Not online (11%)

MILLENIALS

Websites (22%)

Friends - Not online (16%) Google (15%) Family - Not online (13%) Friends - Online (8%)

• Websites are the top-ranked source of information for food system issues for all three segments (Mom, Millennials and Foodies) • Moms’ second-highest ranked source is Family (not online), while the second-highest ranked sources for Millennials and Foodies is Friends (not online) • Moms rely on Local TV Stations, while Millennials rely on Friend (online) as additional sources of information about food system issues

TOP SOURCES RANKED #1 FOODIES

Websites (25%)

Friends - Not online (15%) Google (12%) Family - Not online (10%) Food-Specific TV Program/ Networks (9%)

• Food-Specific TV Program/Networks are important sources of information about food system issues for Foodies (less so for Moms and Millennials) Like Moms, Millennials and Foodies, the top food system source for the general population is Websites.

Websites are followed by Local TV Stations, Friends (not online), Family (not online) and Google.

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The Official Publication of the Kansas Pork Industry

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Pig Tales is a four color, bi-monthly magazine published by the Kansas Pork Association. From event features to board reports and recipes to showcasing how to get involved, its content focuses on industry news from the state and national level. No other magazine in Kansas speaks to the Kansas pork industry like Pig Tales.

The need to inform Kansas pork producers is a priority for our Association, but we need your help. Please consider advertising with Pig Tales as an avenue to get connected with our producers.

Readership includes...

500+ Kansas pork producers 150+ allied industry supporters persons including 150+ complimentary extension and university personnel Publishing Dates February 1 April 1 June 1 August 1 October 1 December 1

Ad Closing Dates January 5 February 18 April 17 June 19 August 19 October 16

Issue 1 Issue 2 Issue 3 Issue 4 Issue 5 Issue 6 * Publishing dates are subject to change at the discretion of the Kansas Pork Association.

Interested in advertising in Pig Tales?

Please contact us for a 2015 Advertising Packet: Amanda Spoo, KPA Director of Communications (785) 776-0442 | amandas@kspork.org

IG TALES P The Official Publication of the Kansas Pork Industry

Kansas Pork Association 2601 Farm Bureau Road Manhattan, KS 66502 Phone: 785-776-0442 Fax: 785-776-9897 www.kspork.org

Inside This Issue...

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Issue 1

President’s Message 4 Advocacy: Where do You Fit? 5 Be Inspired to Make a Difference 6 Cracking the Code on Food Issues 8 Pork in the Classroom 10 United States Meat Export Federation Report 12

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KPA helps publish ‘Kailey’s Pig Tales’ 13 Thank You’s to the Kansas Pork Association 14 Industry News 16

Welcome to our farm, girls.

Let’s get started.

Featured Recipe 18

10 4

President-CEO Tim Stroda tims@kspork.org Director of Consumer Outreach Jodi Oleen jodio@kspork.org Director of Communications Amanda Spoo amandas@kspork.org

2015 KPA Board of Directors Chairman: Michael Springer - Neodesha Jim Crane - Liberal Mark Crane - Chapman Kevin Deniston - Scott City Jeff Dohrman- Bushton Daniel Gerety - Seneca Jason Hall, Elkhart Jerry Morris - Sedgwick Scott Pfortmiller - Stafford Jim Nelssen - Kansas State University

Pig Tales is the official publication of the Kansas Pork Association. The publisher cannot guarantee the correctness of all information or absence of errors and omissions, nor be liable for content of advertisements. We reserve the right to edit or refuse all materials. KPA does not guarantee or endorse the performance of any products or services advertised within the publication. All Pig Tales inquiries should be director to the Kansas Pork Association, 2601 Farm Bureau Road, Manhattan, KS 66502; www.kspork.org.

President’s Message Tim Stroda, President-CEO

Legislative Update As I write this, the legislature is in full swing. As I’m sure you’ve seen, budget issues are the main topic. In short, tax revenues have fallen short of budget estimates.

The Legislature has passed a bill that shifts funds to keep the state current in paying its bills. The Governor has also used executive authority to order budget cuts in appropriations to public universities and K-12 schools.

As we move ahead, the Legislature will have to deal with projected shortfalls for the 2016 budget. There are several methods of raising funds and all of them are being explored. Changes to the process of calculating property taxes are a concern to agriculture. There have already been hearings explaining the concept of use-value appraisal to legislators. While those of us in agriculture understand the cyclical nature of our businesses, others see the rise in land prices as a measure of the health of our industry. They believe if a farmer can afford to purchase land at increased values, then they must be able to afford taxes at increased values. The agricultural groups will work to provide information on the costs of any projected changes, but it can be a hard sell to legislators with very few constituents that own agricultural land.

The legislature is also working several bills related to water. The bills in progress work to allow additional flexibility in several of the state’s conservation programs.

Topics such as this have provided incentive for the agricultural groups to work closely together. A coalition called the Kansas Agricultural Alliance has seen a reinvigoration in the past few sessions.

The fourteen members consist of statewide farm, livestock, commodity, cooperative, agri-business and agri-service organizations. The association traces its roots back to the Committee of Kansas Farm Organizations, formed in the mid-1920’s. Its purpose has been to promote the general welfare of agriculture and rural communities within the state and nation, with special emphasis upon legislative activities affecting agriculture, rural areas and cooperative services.

For the past several years, the KPA has also been a member of the Kansas Business Immigration Coalition. This group includes agriculture, Chambers of Commerce, builders, restaurant and hospitality, and the travel industry. The main theme of this coalition is that immigration is a national issue.

It’s hard to really put a value on these types of coalitions. I see them as a form of insurance. I hope we don’t need them, but they could be very helpful if we do.

The KPA’s lobbyist provides us with a weekly update of the legislature. It can be found at http://www.kspork.org/producers/public-policy/

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Pig Tales

Advocacy: Where Do You Fit?

“Thank you very much for coming to speak to us at NJSA. I am glad you could make it and I learned a lot.

Sincerely, Jade Edwards” “Thank you for helping out and speaking at the NJSA conference. I plan on taking some of your points and using them to continue my journey in ‘ag-vocacy.’

Thanks, Caitlin Drener”

There are many different roles that advocates can have in agriculture. Students in the National Junior Swine Association learned about those roles when they attended the NJSA Regional Leadership Conference on December 6, 2014. The conference, held in Manhattan, Kan., provided an opportunity for 100 youth and adult participants to spend the day in leadership training and to learn more about the swine industry. Participants represented seven different states.

Jodi Oleen, KPA Director of Consumer Outreach, led a youth workshop entitled, “Advocacy: Where do you fit?” where she discussed advocacy and how to effectively utilize social media to promote and highlight the industry.

“It is critical that the young people of our organization understand the importance of advocacy and continuing to do the right thing in production agriculture,” said Brian Arnold, National Swine Registry.

Environmental Consulting Service

Specializing in Nutrient Management Compliance • Kansas GOLDTM Assessments • Soil Sampling • Manure Sampling • KDA Nutrient Utilization Plan Updates • KDHE Nutrient Management Plans • KDHE Permit Application Updates Contact Garry Keeler, program coordinator (785) 893-2748 | kconsulting@mchsi.com Now offering discounts to KPA Members Pig Tales • 5

Be Inspired.

KPA continues its partnership with the American Red Cross In the last three years, Kansas blood donors have come to recognize the drives that are sponsored by the Kansas Pork Association.

“It’s great to see those smiles, from both new and familiar faces, when we show up with the pork,” says Jodi Oleen.

“Our farmers appreciate the opportunity to say thank you to those who are doing such a selfless thing to help others.”

KPA has had a partnership with the American Red Cross for three years that pairs the association with multiple drives across the state to provide pulled pork sandwiches for donors who have given blood. Often, farmers from those communities will come to help serve food and personally thank donors for their donation. In 2014, 822 presenting donors, as well as drive volunteers and staff, were served sandwiches.

“Many donors and volunteers made many comments about how much they appreciated the pork,” says one drive coordinator from Independence. “Christy Springer, a KPA member, was at our drive and was such a benefit. She knows so many people in our community and spent her time visiting with donors and thanking them for their donations. Thank you so much for your sponsorship.”

The Red Cross must collect approximately 17,000 blood donations every day to keep up with patient needs.

Donated blood products are perishable as red blood cells have a shelf life of 42 days and platelets, only five days.

This makes the importance of return donors and first time donors, crucial.

“We have one of the highest ‘return donor’ rates in the country here in Kansas,” says Kristi Ingalls, senior donor recruitment representative. “However, we have one of the lowest ‘first-time’ donor rates. These KPA 6

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Pig Tales

To Make a Difference.

“Not only do my donors love the sandwiches, but we appreciate all of the marketing that KPA does for the drive.”

- Junction City blood drive coordinator

sponsored drives have continued to help us recruit new donors in each of our communities.”

In addition to the pork, KPA supports the drives by working with local media to send out press releases, speak on radio stations and invite reporters the day of the drive. In 2014, the total estimated media audience reach was 616,433 people. Each drive also receives squeezable pig heads, recipes and prizes for drawings.

In 2014, KPA sponsored eight drives, held in Newton, Clay Center, Junction City, Smith Center, Independence, Norton, Arkansas City and Kingman. From these drives, 795 pints of blood were collected.

How can you donate blood? Call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org to make an appointment. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. Individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental permission in some states,) weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood.

Look to future issues of Pig Tales for the 2015 KPA sponsored blood drive dates to be announced. Please contact the KPA office if you are interested in helping out at a blood drive in your community.

Pig Tales • 7

Cracking the Code on Food Issues A look into the Center for Food Integrity’s 2014 Consumer Trush Research Each year, the Kansas Pork Association puts time and consideration into deciding how to guide its marketing and consumer outreach strategies. The agriculture industry as a whole faces considerable consumer skepticism, leaving many asking the question, “Science says it’s so, so why is there still debate?”

“Cracking the Code on Food Issues: Insights from Moms, Millennials and Foodies,” the new consumer trust research from The Center for Food Integrity (CFI), provides a roadmap for those in today’s food system to make complex, technical and controversial information relevant and meaningful to the decision-making process of today’s consumer.

“This research provides guidance to the food system for overcoming the many communication barriers that keep consumers from integrating science-based information into their decisions,” said Charlie Arnot, CFI CEO. “The food system can use new models developed through this research as a guide to connect with consumers, especially moms, millennials and foodies, but it will require communicators to embrace a new approach.”

Believability vary by Messenger and controversial and complex, which iswho reflected The of web-based Outrage Factors driving Thetypes 2014 survey was completed by 2,005 respondents the general U.S. consumer the elements predicting message casethree with antibiotic resistance.

Message Believability include population.

The results were Control segmentedthe into groups that represented current consumer thought drivers: Believability were different for each Most message elements predicting (significant in 17 models), Process moms, millennials and foodies. Additionally, using scenarios on the topics of genetically modified ingredients Messenger. The models are still valid, Believability on antibiotic resistance (significant in 12 models), Fairness, inFamiliarity food and antibiotic use in animal agriculture, the survey tested three voices: a Mom Scientist, a Federal but additional issue-specific testing were common across all three and Voluntariness (all Government Scientist and a Peer “who shares my interest about food.” will help further define which elements Messengers, including Fundamental significant in one model).

After reading about the two topics byMessage each ofElements the threeand voices, trust in the Mom Scientist and are more impactful byGovernment Messenger for Outrage Factors.

Impacts on Believability Scientist remained strong while the Peer lost trust. This indicates that once shared values have been more controversial issues.established, Elements impacting Believability With a more controversial and complex having technical expertise and a credential build credibility when communicating technical information. are more consistent across all three issue like GM ingredients in food, A key takeaway that CFI wants to highlight is the importance of food issues to moms, millennials and Messengers when the issue is less the messages necessary to promote foodies. Food issues CFI says, help define who they are as people and shape their cultural identities. Foodies,

TRUSTED INFORMATION SOURCES Here’s where Moms, Millennials and Foodies go for food system information.

MOMS

Websites (21%)

Family - Not online (12%) Google (12%) Local TV Station (12%) Friends - Not online (11%)

MILLENIALS

Websites (22%)

Friends - Not online (16%) Google (15%) Family - Not online (13%) Friends - Online (8%)

Websites are the top-ranked source of information 88 •••PPig igTT ales ales

for food system issues for all three segments (Mom,

TOP SOURCES RANKED #1 FOODIES

Websites (25%)

Friends - Not online (15%) Google (12%) Family - Not online (10%) Food-Specific TV Program/ Networks (9%)

All graphics are property of the Center for Food Integrity.

• Food-Specific TV Program/Networks are important sources of information about food system issues for

MOST CONCERNING LIFE ISSUES

66%

69%

70%

72%

72%

Rising Energy Costs

Keeping Healthy Food Affordable

U.S. Economy

Rising Cost of Food

Rising Healthcare Costs

The numbers reflect the percentage of those who gave the issues a “top box” rating, or an 8-10 rating on a 0-10 scale where 0-3 is a low level of concern, 4–7 is a moderate level of concern and 8–10 is a high level of concern.

MOST CONCERNING LIFE ISSUES

in particular,ADDITIONAL express a higherFOOD level ofSYSTEM concern about food-related topics than any other segment. Because these issues are meaningful and relevant to each of these groups, how technical and scientific information is CONCERNS introduced to them is crucial. By following the approach outlined in the research, we can find new ways to encourage informed decision-making.

Imported Food Safety (63%) Women were more concerned Further, the research also revealed respondents’ trusted sources for food system information. Websites rank issues than men Food Safety highest for moms, millennials and (62%) foodies. The second choice forabout momsmost is local television stations, while millennials and foodies prefer friends (not online). Food-specific TV programs and networks are important Enough to Feed U.S. (55%) sources for foodies. This information provides a better understanding of the communications Keepingchannels and U.S. Economy Rising Energy Early Adopters wereHealthy more Food processes that theseHumane early adopting consumer forming attitudes and opinions about (49%)groups are using when Treatment Costs concerned about all issues than Affordable of Farm issues in agriculture and food.Animals later adopters In measuring a number of those food system concerns, shown in the figures on this page, there are (49%) Environmental Sustainability additional factors that should influence how we approach addressing these topics. Moms and early adopters in Farming The numbers reflect the percentage of those who gave the issue are already established as consumer thought drivers in this study, but overall this0-3 research shows that women a 0-10 scale where is aconcern low level of was concern, Lowest for 4–7 is a moderat were more concerned about most issues than men, and early adopters were more concerned than later Access to Accurate Information (49%) of concern. having enough food to feed adopters on alltoissues. lowest concern identified (33%) waspeople for ‘having enough food to feed Make Additionally, Healthy Food the Choices outside the U.S. people outside the U.S. ADDITIONAL FOOD SYSTEM So how do we apply this research? CFI provides a CONCERNS strategic list of how to balance the information identified by the research and the relationship that an organization 19 Imported Food Safety (63%) is seeking to form with their consumer groups.

W - Believability is a key driver in creating information a Food Safety (62%) that is trusted.

- Identify the groups you would like to engage.

Enough to Feed U.S. (55%) - Meet them where they are.

Early A Humane Treatment (49%) - Develop a values-based engagement strategy that concer of Farm Animals starts with listening and embracing skepticism. later ad - Commit to engaging over time.

Environmental Sustainability (49%) Since 2007, CFI has conducted annual consumer trust in Farming research to track trends and attitudes, and provide insights Access to Accurate Information (49%) and guidance to those in agriculture and food on how to to Make Healthy Food Choices best engage today’s increasingly skeptical consumer.

66%

69%

70%

Read the full report at www.foodintegrity.org/research/2014-research Pig Tales • 9

Pork in the Classroom KPA partners to provide curriculum to Kansas classrooms

In the last year it has been the Kansas Pork Association’s goal to focus its efforts on building relationships with consumers who have a role in influencing those around them. Classrooms are an important part of that demographic.

“We continue to have a steady flow of requests from teachers interested in any resources that we have to offer,” says Jodi Oleen, KPA Director of Consumer Outreach. “This was an opportunity to fulfill an important need and we are excited to now be able to provide these materials for classrooms in Kansas.”

There are two curricula on pork that are now available. A Peek at Pork offers four lessons, as well as anticipation and vocabulary activities for grades 3-4. This curriculum is best utilized in conjunction with The Amazing Pig DVD, which is also available through KPA. Pig Mania provides six lessons for grades 4-6, which range from language arts to math.

“Kids are intrigued by animals, they make learning fun,” says Cathy Musick, Executive Director of the Kansas Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom. “These curricula allow teachers to use agriculture as a tool to teach their curriculum standards.”

Those standards, focused on “career and work-force readiness” have a big emphasis on applied learning.

“Teachers are looking for real world scenarios to help toward lessons in science, technology, engineering and math,” Musick says. “Not only does this curricula help meet national agriculture literacy outcomes, but it promotes agriculture and the environment in a positive way.

There were many groups involved in the development and funding for the curriculum. It was an original project led by the Nebraska Pork Producers Association, who worked with the Nebraska Foundation for Ag in the Classroom, Nebraska Farm Bureau and the Nebraska Soybean Board to fund and develop the materials. The materials were then passed to KPA, who worked closely with KFAC and the Kansas Soybean Commission to edit and publish the curricula according to Kansas learning standards.

KFAC will have an important role in helping introduce the curricula to teachers.

“We will be talking about it at Be Ag Wise and our summer institute workshops, which are both professional development opportunities for students,” Musick says.

Those interested in learning more or implementing these curricula in their classroom can visit www.eatpork.org/ teaching, or contact KPA at 785-776-0442.

“With Kansas Ag Week coming up in March, these materials would be great way to celebrate in the classroom,” Oleen says. “If you have children in third-sixth grade or a relationship with your local schools, we encourage you to reach out to them with this resource.”

10 • Pig Tales

A Peek at Pork

Pig MANIA Teacher’s G

uide

Grades 4

-6

GRADES 3-4 Kansas Agriculture in the Classroom

“The Amazing Pig” DVD can be utilized in conjunction with the “A Peek at Pork” curriculum. For additional resources contact the Kansas Pork Association (www.eatpork.org), Kansas Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom (www.ksagclassroom. com) or National Pork Board (www.pork4kids.com).

Adapted

Written By from lesso Sandy Dorn & Jane ns origina Nyffeler lly by Lois Linke & Rh onda Tru Graphic De e sign by Ta ra Grell

“Kids are intrigued by animals, they make learning fun.”

- Cathy Musick Classroom Topics Reading Writing Language Arts Geography Science

Social Studies History Math Health Nutrition

“A Peek at Pork” curriculum was written

by Krista Hight and Kate Barr. “Pig Mania” curriculum was written by Sandy Dorn and Jan Nyffeler, adapted from lessons originally by Lois Linke and Rhonda True.

All original graphic design by Tara Gell.

Pig Tales • 11

Report The U.S. Meat Export Federation, www.usmef.org, is the trade association responsible for developing international markets for the U.S. red meat industry. It is funded by USDA; the beef, pork, lamb, corn and soybean checkoff programs, as well as its members representing nine industry sectors. The Kansas Pork Association is a member.

November meat export volumes lower, but value remains on record pace U.S. beef and pork export volumes trended lower in November, according to data released by USDA and compiled

by USMEF. However, the cumulative 2014 volume totals were still higher year-over-year, with January-November beef exports up 2 percent to 1.1 million metric tons (mt). Pork exports were also 2 percent higher at just under 2 million mt. With December totals still to be recorded, beef exports already set a new full-year value record of $6.49 billion (up 16 percent year-over-year). Pork export value through November ($6.13 billion, up 11 percent) is on pace to break the 2012 record and already exceeds the 2013 year-end total.

November results were mixed for beef exports, with volume down 5 percent from a year ago to 96,348 mt, while value was 19 percent higher at $626.7 million. November pork exports were down 13 percent in volume (168,062 mt) and 6 percent in value ($519.9 million). USMEF President and CEO Philip Seng said that while the first 11 months of 2014 reflect a very solid performance for U.S. beef and pork, exports face heightening economic challenges in leading markets in the coming year.

“Demand for U.S. beef and pork remains strong, as international buyers appreciate the unmatched quality and consistency of our products,” he said. “But lower slaughter numbers reduced 2014 supplies, which obviously had an impact on prices, and in recent months buying power in many key markets has been affected by slowing economic growth and weaker currencies. Market access restrictions in several important markets, including China and Russia, also had a big impact on opportunities for U.S. exports last year. The outlook for 2015 is for more of the same, but our industry has proven its ability to identify and develop export outlets in difficult times. When I look across the world as a whole, I still see good potential for further expansion of red meat exports in 2015.”

November pork exports equated to 25 percent of total production and 20 percent of muscle cut production – down from 26 percent and 22 percent a year ago. For January - November, exports equated to 27 percent of total production (up from 25.5 percent) and 22 percent for muscle cuts (up from 21 percent). Export value per head slaughtered was $58.99 in November (up 3 percent from a year ago) and $63.21 for January-November (up 17 percent).

Exports to leading volume market Mexico slowed in November (53,433 mt, down 9 percent) but JanuaryNovember volume still reached 617,034 mt, up 10 percent from a year ago. Export value was 2 percent lower in November ($121.8 million) but still up 31 percent year-over-year to a record $1.42 billion.

Pork muscle cut exports to Japan were down 22 percent in November (25,901 mt) and fell 19 percent in value ($120.3 million). For January-November, muscle cut exports to Japan were down 6 percent in volume (354,239 mt) and 2 percent in value to $1.66 billion. The Japanese market has been greatly impacted by an influx of pork from the European Union, which has been locked out of its top market, Russia, since January 2014. Data from Japan show that pork/pork variety meat imports from the EU increased 42 percent through November, reflecting lower prices resulting from the impasse with Russia.

Other January-November pork results include: • Exports to Korea have already surpassed 2013 year-end totals in both volume (120,724 mt, up 40 percent from a year ago), and value ($392.3 million, up 64 percent).

• Led by Colombia, exports to the Central/South America region remain on a record volume pace (112,101 mt, up 3 percent) and have already set a new value record of $316.4 million (up 15 percent). Although exports to Colombia slowed in the fourth quarter, January-November totals were still up 42 percent in volume (43,716 mt) and 54 percent in value ($123.8 million).

• While pork exports to Canada were 9 percent lower in volume (191,355 mt), export value remained strong at $832.1 million – up 7 percent year-over-year and approaching the full-year record of $855.7 million set in 2012.

Originally released January 8, 2015; U.S. Meat Export Federation

12 • Pig Tales

KPA helps publish Kailey’s Pig ‘Tales’ “Kailey” is helping share the story about Kansas agriculture.

The Kansas Pork Association was the primary sponsor for Kailey’s Pig ‘Tales’, a children’s book published by Kansas Farm Bureau. This is the sixth book in the Kailey’s Ag Adventures series that provides a fun and educational story that follows Kailey and her cousins as they learn about pig farming from Farmer Rich.

“The Kansas Pork Association is excited to be a part of helping bring this installment of the Kailey series alive,” says Tim Stroda, KPA President-CEO. “This is a great resource to help kids enjoy learning about pork production.”

Kansas Farm Bureau’s retired CEO and former educator, Dan Yunk, has continued writing the series that began after granddaughter Kailey was fascinated about what she learned on a farm tour with Yunk.

“We’ve covered a lot of ground in the Kailey series,” Yunk says. “Just like we’ve done with every book, we try to share the story of agriculture in a fun, educational and relatable way.”

The book combines both illustrations and live photography and offers fill-in-the-blank learning opportunities. Accompanying lesson plans that follow state teaching standards can be found at www. kfb.org/ageducation.Interested in having this book in your home or classroom? Contact the KPA office at 785-776-0442 or kpa@kspork.org.

Welcome to our farm, girls.

Let’s get started.

Kailey’s Pig ‘Tales’

by

Dan Yunk

4

Reserve For Your 2015 Event

The model pig barns are a great interactive tool to help people understand where their food comes from. Throughout the year they are everywhere from community meetings to classrooms and county ag days. Spring is our busiest time of year for the barns, so get yours reserved now!

Contact Jodi Oleen at (785) 776-0442 or jodio@kspork.org

Pig Tales • 13

Thank You

Your association works with communities, classrooms, youth programs and organizations throughout the year to support their endeavors and talk about pork. Now, they want to thank you.

I had an the absolute pleasure of attending the #RealPigFarming trip/tour last week and was blown away! Every detail and aspect was planned perfectly and not to mention, we got to visit the coolest farm. The sheer quality of this trip - information shared, individuals involved and to cover all of our needs - far exceeded both my expectations and anything I have been involved with in the past. Thank you for suppporting such efforts and providing such a wonderful and long-lasting experience! It was much appreciated.

- Kylene Etzel, RD,LD, Hy-vee, Inc. 2014 Real Pig Farming Tour participant Thank you for your support for the 2014 Swine Classic. This is our favorite swine show to go to. We participated in the photography and speaking activities along with the show. We brought 2 pigs. Thank for again for sponsoring the classic.

Sincerely, James and Jenna DeRouchey On behalf of the Missouri Pork Association and Missouri Farmers Care, we extend a huge thanks to you and the Kansas Pork Association for your support of the Missouri Farming Rights Amendment. We’re optimistic of our success and help from Kansas and other states are playing a big part in that. Thanks again for your support.

Sincerely, Don Nikodim, Missouri Pork Association Thank you for sponsoring the Senior Championship Swine award at the Wilson County 4-H Achievement Banquet.

- Bryce Signer Thank you for sponsoring the champion swine project pins. Swine is one of my favorite 4-H projects. Your support of 4-H is greatly appreciated.

- Grace Young, Miami County I wanted to send a HUGE thank you for choosing the Ark City Blood Drive to provide the awesome pulled pork sandwiches along with the piggie heads and the gift cards. Your support is truly appreciated and I hope that we’re able to work together again next year!

Thanks again, Erika Glock, American Red Cross Donor Recruitment Representative Thank you so very much for supporting the K-State Youth Livestock Program and our state 4-H Livestock Sweepstakes event in August. Without sponsors like you, there is just no way we could put on an educational production like this for nearly 300 kids. Your sponsorship went toward awards and food for these kids and certainly did not go unnoticed. We cannot thank you enough for your continued support over the years.

Sincerely, Hilary Hawkins, Youth Livestock Program Coordinator Thank you for sponsoring my swine achievement pin for Nemaha County 4-H. - Erica Reiger The 2014 KSU Swine Day was a huge success! We had over 375 pork producers, allied industry representatives, K-State faculty, staff and students at this year’s event. We would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your sponsoring of KSU Swine Day. With your help, Swine Day was one the best programs offered to the Kansas swine industry. Thank you for your continued support.

Sincerely, K-State Swine Team

14 • Pig Tales

Thank you for your contribution to the Kansas 4-H Foundation. On behalf of our trustees, staff and volunteers, we want you to know how much we value your support of our efforts in serving the state’s largest youth development organization - Kansas 4-H. Thanks again, Nancy J. Schurle, Kansas 4-H Foundation Donor Records Manager Thank you so much for your generous donation of the pink pig hats, recipes, stickers and pork information for our Williamsburg Elementary School ag classes. We really appreciate your help in teaching our students about the pork industry.

Sincerely, Audra McCurdy, WES students, faculty and staff Thank you very much for sponsoring the senior swine K.A.P. award. I really enjoy advancing my swine project every year and getting recognized for it. Thank you also for letting my family and I participate in the pork promotion tailgate at Kansas State. I really enjoy promoting our Kansas swine industry.

- Cody Wondra I was fortunate to be one of the dieticians invited to join the Real Pig Farming Tour hosted by the Kansas Pork Association and Kansas Soybean Commission. As a dietician working closely with the community, I’m frequently asked questions related to the food supply. This includes the treatment of animals as they’re raised, what animals are fed, and how their feed effects us as consumers. Fair Oaks and the Rodibaugh farm were incredible places to learn first hand the answers to many of these questions.

Jodi and Amanda were also invaluable resources on the trip. It was so helpful to have the opportunity to ask them questions. We had many great conversations on the bus while traveling between destinations. They were very knowledgable and able to answer questions in a way that I can relate back to my clients. At one point I had a question that they were unable to answer as it related to corn production and Jodi took the time to immediately call someone in the corn industry who would have the correct answer. They both were overall wonderful hosts and stewards for the Kansas Pork Association.

It is my sincere hope that partnerships between our local agricultural associations and community members such as myself can continue in the future. There is a definite need for further education in the community and increased understanding of where our food comes from and how it is safely produced.

Thank you to the Kansas Pork Association for helping make this experience possible!

- Anna Binder, RD,LD, CLT, Maximum Performance Physical Therapy & Fitness 2014 Real Pig Farming Tour participant We would like to say a special “thank you” for your sponsorship of the Swine Educational Trip for our K-State Swine Nutrition faculty and graduate students. The trip was perfect for interactions of feed ingredient companies, meat processors, other university faculty involved in swine nutrition and disease management. This year we traveled and visited locations in Missouri and Iowa. This educational trip benefited everyone in our group to gain more exposure to the many facets of the swine industry. We appreciate the ongoing relationship we have with the Kansas Pork Association and look forward to future interactions.

Sincerely, K-State swine team and grad students Thank you so much for sponsoring the county champion pin I received at our county 4-H achievement banquet for my project work in the 2013-14 swine project. It is so appreciated by us all when we are recognized for our work in 4-H. Thank you again for supporting our program.

- Alexis Peck, Lane County The donors and volunteers at the Smith Center Community Blood Drive want to thank you for donating the pulled pork for the sandwiches we served at the October 15 blood drive. Our local grocery store did a great job preparing the pork and homemade buns. There was plenty of meat for seconds! Also, thank you for the two gift cards and little pig stress relievers. One of the winners of the gift cards is a young man who volunteers to help set up the Red Cross equipment and helps loads the truck when the drive is over. We thank you for choosing our blood drive so donors could enjoy a delicious sandwich.

- Sharon Herndon, Red Cross chairperson • • Pig T Pales ig Tales 15 15

Industry News National Pork Board Names New CEO

Chris Hodges, a pork industry leader with substantial senior management experience in agriculture, will join the National Pork Board as its new chief executive officer on Feb. 16. Currently based in Kansas City, Hodges is senior vice president – business development of Smithfield Farmland.

“When I first joined what was then Farmland Industries as a grain division manager, I joined a farmer cooperative,” said Hodges. “Over the years, I have grown to understand the needs and challenges facing pork producers. From product marketing to disease management to sustainability, I look forward to working with the NPB to develop the tangible tools and grassroots programs on behalf of America’s pig farmers.”

Hodges brings to the Pork Checkoff decades of indepth knowledge and innovation in marketing pork to key U.S. food retailers and into international markets.

Much of his fresh pork marketing experience includes direct producer outreach and involvement related to adopting on-farm practices specifically designed to improve overall meat quality. His last day with Smithfield will be Feb. 13, upon which he will move to Des Moines to lead the Pork Checkoff.

“For the past 30 years, Chris has dedicated his career to the pork industry, building and leading teams to meet the emerging demands for protein in both the U.S. and international market place,” said Dale Norton, president of the NPB and a pork producer from Bronson, Mich.

“He knows this industry so well and, over the years, has given back through volunteering his time and expertise in several areas.”

Last June at World Pork Expo, Hodges publicly endorsed the Pork Checkoff ’s swine industry audit task force as it unveiled a single, common approach to streamline how pork is produced in the U.S. This new industry standard for auditing pork production aligns many diverse practices into a common protocol. It has been supported and accepted by pig farmers, packers, processors, retailers and others throughout the pork supply chain.

16 • Pig Tales 16 • Pig Tales

Hodges is also a retiring board member of the National Pork Producers Council. He served as chairman of its Packer Processor Industry Council since 2013.

Prior to his current role, Hodges advanced at Smithfield Foods – a $14 billion global food company and the world’s largest pork processor and hog producer.

He previously served as senior vice president, fresh pork and industrial sales at Farmland Foods, and led the sales and marketing teams for its Smithfield® and Farmland® brands. His industry expertise includes business development, sales and marketing, retail and foodservice outreach, new equipment and processing specifications management, risk management, feed and grains oversight and developing integrated information and technology systems.

“As we move forward with the implementation of our new 2020 strategic plan, we feel confident that Chris is the right person to lead the organization,” Norton said. “He brings not only years of professional work experience, but first-hand knowledge and insight into our changing industry. We welcome him on board.”

Hodges’ first week on the job will include meeting with producer leaders at the National Pork Board’s annual unified research committee meeting, Feb. 1719, followed closely by speaking at the National Pork Industry Forum in San Antonio, March 5-7.

Hodges, raised in Laurens, Iowa, is a graduate of Drake University, Des Moines, Iowa, with a focus in international relations. He also has a masters of arts in international affairs from Columbia University. Upon obtaining his graduate degree, Hodges was a project manager at the U.S Department of Agriculture, assigned to the U.S. Agency for International Development where he managed extension projects in international grain markets. He later earned a doctorate in agricultural and applied economics from the University of Minnesota.

Jon Leafstedt, Jim Gerardot, and Ed Yuhas, principals with Kincannon & Reed, a global executive search firm focused on the food and agribusiness industry, assisted the National Pork Board and its search committee in the recruitment of Chris Hodges as chief executive officer.

Released January 12, 2015; National Pork Board

Soy Pork Post Card KS.indd 1

7/2/14 10:43 AM

prsrt std us postage pa i d lincoln, ne permit no. 967 Kansas Pork Association 2601 Farm Bureau Road Manhattan, KS 66502

BINGOI!

makes learning lively and fun!

FREE!

Request a complete kit for your classroom today!

3-7 grade curriculum Includes supplies for 25 students - game cards, tokens and call out cards - worksheets - one classroom poster

Quantities are limited so order yours today!

Go to www.Kansasporkbingo.com

Kansas legislators and statehouse employees were treated to pulled pork tacos at a luncheon hosted by the Kansas Restaurant and Hospitality Association during the 25th annual Taste of Kansas Legislative Affairs Conference. Students from Eudora High School in Eudora, Kan., prepared the salsa, coleslaw, hot sauce and smoked pork, in addition to helping serve guests at the event that was held in Topeka on Wednesday, January 14. Thank you to Neeley Carlson, at KRHA for sharing this picture with us.

Brought to you by Kansas Pork Farmers

soybeans grown in Kansas. Request a complete kit for your classroom today!

Each kit includes a set of 25 game cards Pork products on one side, and Soy products on the other; two games in one. You will also receive the game tokens, the call-out cards, 25 work sheets and a poster for your classroom.

This educational program is offered to Kansas educators FREE OF CHARGE by the Kansas Soybean Commission and the Kansas Pork Association.

Brought to you by Kansas Pork and Soybean farmers.

Pig Tales • 17 Pig Tales • 17

brasied Pork medallions - with apples -

20 min Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 15 minutes Yield: 4 servings Ingredients • 1 pork tenderloin, sliced into 8 pieces • • • • • •

1/2 teaspoon pepper 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice 1 teaspoon vegetable oil 1 small onion, chopped 1 large apple, cored and coarsely chopped 1/2 cup apple cider

Season medallions on both sides with pepper and pumpkin pie spice. Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat; brown pork on both sides, remove from pan and reserve. Add onion and apples to skillet, saute until soft. Add apple cider to skillet, heat to a simmer. Return pork medallions to pan, cover and simmer for 5 minutes.

Enjoy these tenderloin medallions paired with the sweet taste of apples, or serve medallions with hot couscous and steamed broccoli.

Nutritional Information Calories: 196 calories Protein: 25 grams Fat: 6 grams Sodium: 56 milligrams

Cholesterol: 75 milligrams Saturated Fat: 2 grams Carbohydrates: 14 grams Fiber: 2 grams

Find more healthy recipes for the new year at eatpork.org

PQA PLUS SITE STATUS REBATE PROGRAM The Kansas Pork Association and the National Pork Board are encouraging all producers to become PQA Plus certified and achieve PQA Plus Site Status. The purpose of this program is to encourage producers to be proactive in providing the best possible care for their animals and show commitment to the ethical principles of pork production as outlined in the We Care responsible pork initiative. Having a PQA Plus advisor review your operation can both improve the well-being and productivity of animals in your care by noting changes or additions that may not otherwise be noticed.

The Kansas Pork Association is offering a $100 rebate to Kansas Pork Producers completing a PQA Plus Site Assesment. The funding is available on a first-come-first-serve basis.

The following requirements and stipulations apply: • Producer must have all site status paperwork completed.

• Rebate amount may not equal more than the total assessment cost.

• Rebates available on a first-come, first-served basis only as funds are available.

Please do not delay!

Please contact Tim Stroda at kpa@kspork.org or (785) 776-0442 with questions or to see if funds are still available.

Please work with your PQA Plus advisor to complete the form below.

Then, detach and mail to the address on the form.

Name of producer: ___________________________________________ Farm name: ________________________________________________ Organization (if contract grower): ________________________________ Mailing Address: _____________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ Premise ID# or PQA Plus number ________________________________ Phone: _____________________________________________________ E-mail:______________________________________________________

Please return form and a copy of PQA Plus site assesment certificate to: Kansas Pork Assocition PQA Plus Rebate Program 2601 Farm Bureau Road Manhattan, KS 66502

FOR ADVISOR USE ONLY Date of assessment: ____/____/______ Total assessment cost: $__________ PQA Plus Advisor (Print) ______________________________ (signature) _____________________ PQA Plus Advisor phone: ____________________

PIG TALES

The Official Publication of the Kansas Pork Industry

Kansas Pork Association 2601 Farm Bureau Road Manhattan, KS 66502 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

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Support the Association by becoming a member or advertising in Pig Tales!

Become a member today! Visit our web site, www.kpa.org or call the KPA office at (785) 776-0442 to get a membership or industry partner form. For advertising rates, sizes and deadlines, please contact the KPA office at (785) 776-0442 or e-mail kpa@kspork.org.

20 • Pig Tales