We have reached the half-way point of session at the State Capitol. So, this week's "Legislative and Celebrity Showmanship" at the Oklahoma Youth Expo (OYE) provided a perfect field trip to get many of our state leaders directly in touch with amazing students and their livestock projects.

OYE truly incorporated all of Oklahoma Pork's four strategic intentions, as this chance to connect with legislators about pigs served as a wonderful "Freedom to Operate" touchpoint. Chaotic, educational, and fun are all words that describe the experience when around 50 elected officials and other Oklahoma leaders took direction from 4-H and FFA members from their districts who coached them on how to best present their animals to the judges. What a perfect reminder to these folks about the importance of agriculture and investing in our students.

The Oklahoma Pork Council shares a swine-loving shout out to Senate Pro Tem Lonnie Paxton, House Agriculture Chairman Kenton Patzkowsky, OSU Interim President Jim Hess, and the other leaders who chose pigs for their time in the show ring. State Senator Chuck Hall from Perry was named champion swine showman, with Pro Tem Paxton winning overall Legislative Showman!