26 Better Pork June 2016 WELCOME TO ONTARIO PORK CONGRESS 2016 t r r I hope the warmer weather is a reminder that the Ontario Pork Congress (OPC) is just around the corner and we’re excited for you to join us in Stratford for the 43rd annual event! I’m very proud of our committees and volunteers who have been working hard to prepare all the great aspects of OPC that truly make it a celebration of pork for our Industry. The 2016 Ontario Pork Congress will be bursting at the seams with a record number of exhibitors filling both the AgriPlex and Rotary Complex exhibit halls to network and showcase innova- tion. The Hog Highway through the arena will again link the two exhibit halls as well as hosting some of our feature events. Admission to OPC this year will again include an amazing free BBQ pork lunch prepared by Perth County Pork Producers and served in the courtyard next to the hospitality tent. Don’t miss “Taste the Best” held in the arena during the afternoon of the first day – this event features “Local Pork Prepared by Local Chefs” and our feature cut of pork is bacon/pork belly paired with craft beer sampling by Stratford’s own Black Swan Brewing… Bacon, Beer… Admit it, for a second there, all your problems went away. If you’re feeling guilty from all the eating and looking to support one of our industry’s great charitable causes, make sure you’re registered for the Hog Jog taking place during the evening of the first day of OPC. This year’s Hog Jog consists of a 3.5 km walk/jog or 10 km run raising funds for Stratford/Perth Shelter- link which exists to provide youth ages 16-24, who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless, with shelter, advocacy services and basic needs. The Bacon Maker Classic (BMC) live hog show is another feature event held on the second day of OPC. The live show is a great way to support and connect with many of the future Ontario pork producers. Make sure to visit the BMC Education Centre setup in the area – this year the Education Centre will showcase carcasses as part of the BMC carcass grading competition. And just when you think OPC can’t get any better… we’ve added a few new features to this year’s show including a “Piglet Pen” kids play area and a charitable Rib Eating Contest with some industry and local celebrity contestants. Mark your calendars for June 22 & 23, 2016 and make the trip to Stratford for the Ontario Pork Con- gress – come join us to “Celebrate Pork!” Blair Cressman 2016 OPC President