Illinois Bacon Day is Set for May 1
On May 1, the Illinois Pork Producers Association (IPPA) will be at the Illinois State Capitol to celebrate the commemoration of Senate Joint Resolution 50, sponsored by Senator Tom Bennett (R-53), designating May 1 as Illinois Bacon Day.
Illinois pig farmers, IPPA staff and FFA state officers will be handing out BLT sandwiches to legislators at the Illinois State Capital to discuss the role that pork production plays in Illinois, IPPA said in a release.
“Illinois Bacon Day is a day for celebration; however, it is also a day to bring attention to the important hurdles that Illinois pork producers are facing today, like market fluctuation in pork prices, environmental concerns, high feed costs, and preparedness for disease outbreaks,” IPPA said in a release.
To help support pig farmers, IPPA is challenging consumers to #BringHomeTheBacon. Keep the demand for pork products high by adding bacon (or any pork product!) to your grocery cart every time you shop. In doing so, you are supporting Illinois farms, 96% of which are family owned, IPPA shared. Additionally, many local restaurants will be participating in Illinois Bacon Day by featuring a pork special on their menu.
Get Your Tickets Now for BBQ & Brew at the Ballpark
Tickets are on sale for the second annual BBQ & Brew at the Ballpark. The event takes place on Saturday, June 22 at Principal Park in Des Moines from 2-7 p.m. Organized by the Iowa Pork Producers Association (IPPA) and the Iowa Cubs, this fun afternoon for the whole family includes a Backyard BBQ Competition featuring contestants from all over the state, contending for more than $10,000 in prize money, IPPA said in a release.
Attendees can sample the competitors’ delicious pork, plus Smokey D’s BBQ & Berkwood Farms will provide grilled pork loin sandwiches, and you receive 15 samples of beer from Iowa’s top craft breweries. All of that is included with the purchase of a ticket, IPPA explained. Attendees will also be able to cast a vote for their favorite Backyard BBQer in the Peoples’ Choice competition, and they’ll also be helping a good cause.
“BBQ & Brew at the Ballpark is a terrific celebration of pork and a great way to give back to people in our communities who are in need,” Iowa Pork Producers Association President Matt Gent, a pig farmer from Wellman, said in a release. “Proceeds help fight food insecurity in Iowa. Last year’s inaugural event raised more than $20,000 for Iowa food pantries and we hope to do even better this year.”
Netflix Barbecue Showdown Champion Thryon Mathews, an Iowa resident, will be offering grilling tips. Live music from local musicians will also be provided. Learn more here.
