The Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) honored outstanding local leaders for their contributions to the pork industry during the annual Iowa Pork Congress in late January. The event celebrated individuals and county organizations that have played a vital role in promoting pork production, educating the public, and driving leadership within the industry.
Belle Ringer Award Winners – Recognizing Women in Pork Advocacy
The Belle Ringer Award acknowledges women who have gone above and beyond in promoting and educating about pork. This year, seven women were nominated by their county organizations for their commitment and leadership in the industry:
- Grundy County: Laura Hommel – Eight years on the board, coordinating projects, promotions, and educational efforts.
- Plymouth County: Sterling Meyer – Ten years of service, planning promotional activities and education initiatives.
- Buena Vista County: Crystal Nieland – Former President, involved in promotional activities like the Buena Vista Bacon Buddies event.
- Lyon County: Erin Berentschot – Seven years of service, contributing to grilling events and county fair duties.
- Washington County: Jennie Greene – Active board member and key player in programs like Pork in the Pantry.
- Delaware County: Lindsay Manternach – Organized county shows and educational programs.
- Buchanan County: Tracy Zitelman – Assisted in grilling events and planning county promotions.
State Winners: Sterling Meyer (Plymouth County) and Laura Hommel (Grundy County)
Meyer and Hommel were recognized for their exceptional dedication, leadership, and passion for promoting Iowa pork. The IPPA promotion committee selected the winners, awarding $250 to their nominating counties, while the other nominees’ counties received $100 each.
Hog Wild Award Winners – Honoring Leadership in Pork Promotion
The Hog Wild Award recognizes men who have demonstrated outstanding efforts in pork promotion and education. Five nominees were honored for their impact:
- Delaware County: Jordan LeClere – Eight years of service, instrumental in fair activities and promotions.
- Buena Vista County: Aaron Nieland – Former President, coordinated numerous projects and committee initiatives.
- Lyon County: Chad Berentschot – Held multiple leadership roles, including Vice President and Treasurer.
- Washington County: Matt Romoser – Strong leadership as President and Vice President, organizing successful promotional events.
- Plymouth County: Simon Kern – Seven years on the board, involved in education and promotional efforts.
State Winner: Jordan LeClere (Delaware County)
LeClere was named the top Hog Wild Award winner for his dedication, leadership, and advocacy for the pork industry. The winning county received $250, while the other nominees’ counties earned $100 each.
County Outreach Award Winners – Recognizing Local Promotion Efforts
The County Outreach Award honors counties for innovative pork promotional and educational initiatives.
- Plymouth County:
- Tenderloin Trail – Promoted local restaurants by encouraging customers to try pork-based menu items and collect stamps in a passport program.
- Backpack Program – Partnered with Jordan’s Meat Market to provide 4,050 pork sticks for school meal programs benefiting students.
- Story County:
- Partnered with FFA to grill Iowa chops and loins for community and school events.
- Hosted a free pork loin dinner for the Nevada community, educating families on pork preparation and nutritional value.
Winning counties received $250 for their outreach programs, while five other nominees received $100.
County Involvement Awards – Recognizing Active Industry Leadership
IPPA also honored counties that demonstrated strong community involvement and dedication to pork promotion. The top five award-winning counties were:
- Plymouth County
- Washington County
- Lyon County
- Delaware County
- Buchanan County
These counties earned over 2,000 points for their active participation in pork promotion and educational events. Each of the top five counties was awarded $1,000, while other counties meeting the threshold received $500.
Recognizing the Champions of Iowa Pork
The Iowa Pork Congress is a testament to the strength and leadership within the state’s pork industry. By honoring individuals and county organizations, IPPA continues to drive awareness, education, and support for pork production in Iowa.
For high-resolution images of the award winners, visit Iowa Pork Producers Association’s official site.
About the Iowa Pork Producers Association
The Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) is dedicated to promoting, educating, and serving as a leading voice for a sustainable, socially responsible, and globally competitive pork industry.
Swine Web will continue to highlight industry leaders and their commitment to advancing pork production across the U.S. Stay tuned for more updates on pork leadership, innovation, and advocacy.
