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State Officials Cut the Ribbon on $50 Million Swine Barn at Indiana State Fairgrounds

State Officials Cut the Ribbon on $50 Million Swine Barn at Indiana State Fairgrounds

By Brandon Smith

State leaders officially cut the ribbon at the swine barn at the Indiana State Fairgrounds Thursday after a multi-year, $50 million overhaul.

Gov. Eric Holcomb said the multi-use center is an investment for all Hoosiers.

“Our students are going to be able to learn and grow and develop here," Holcomb said. "And a lot of memories will be made along the way.”

There was controversy when lawmakers approved the funding for the building. Democrats argued the state should use its triple-A credit rating and historically low interest rates to bond the facility's construction and instead use the $50 million on more immediate needs.

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The Indiana Farm Bureau Fall Creek Pavilion, as it’s officially known, will host more than just livestock events. USA Track and Field CEO Max Siegel said there will be national and international sporting events at the facility.

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CEOs of the Industry: John McIntire, Partner at Pike Pig Systems

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CEOs of the Industry, Jim sits down with John McIntire, Partner at Pike Pig Systems, one of the most quietly impressive 26,000-sow operations in the U.S. John shares how he grew from operator to partner, how Pike built a people-first culture with long-tenured managers, and why they’re committed to weaning bigger, stronger pigs at 25+ days.

John breaks down how Pike stays efficient in a tough economic environment, the power of their shareholder-owned farm model, and how their work with PIC and a 240-head boar facility drives genetics and health outcomes. He also opens up about the innovations Pike adopts — and how they decide what’s truly valuable versus industry hype.

From Prop 12 and labor challenges to trade, consumer expectations, and sustainability, John chooses a hot-button issue and shares how Pike is preparing for the future. The episode closes with a rapid-fire “Fast Five” — mindset, leadership, daily habits, and three words that define Pike Pig Systems in 2025.

If you want a look inside a people-driven, purpose-driven, quietly elite pork system, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.