Missouri Pork Association hosts annual event.

Columbia, Mo.–Ben Luebbering, a student with the Fatima FFA program, impressed the judges with his speech to win the FFA Pork Speaking Contest state finals, held on February 10 at the 2015 Missouri Pork Expo.

Ben was one of six speakers to reach the state finals. Students qualified for the finals by winning their area, then district contest.

With the victory, he earned a plaque and a check for $200.

Zachary Duncan, a member of the Macon County R IV FFA chapter, placed second, earning $150. Bailey Henry from the Chillicothe FFA finished third, earning $100. Also competing in the state finals were Sara Gammon, Drexel FFA; Hunter Crumley, Doniphan FFA; and Lanie Ogle, Sarcoxie FFA—each receive $50.

Alltech sponsored the cash prizes for the FFA Pork Speaking Contest, which took place during the Pork Expo held in Columbia at the Holiday Inn Executive Center. Pork producers from across the state enjoyed a trade show, producer education seminars and guest speakers.

The Missouri Pork Association represents the state’s pork producers in the areas of promotion, research, education and legislation. For more information about this or any other programs of the Missouri Pork Association, go to www.mopork.com, or call the Missouri Pork Association office at (573) 445-8375.