NW Ohio Times

State Representative Haraz N. Ghanbari (R-Perrysburg) was named Grand Champion in the 2025 Battle for the Bacon: The Legislator Showdown at the Ohio State Fair. Ghanbari, who is serving his third term representing most of Wood County, participated in the event with coaching from Claire Lampe, a local 4-H member and Otsego High School sophomore. He competed with a seven-month-old Crossbred Barrow named “Ice Cream.”

“The real champions are our 4-H and FFA youth,” said Ghanbari. “Claire was an outstanding coach and ambassador for Wood County and the entire state. I’m proud to share this win with her — and Ice Cream.”

Ohio Department of Agriculture Director Brian Baldridge commented on the significance of the event, stating, “Congratulations to our Grand Champion of this year’s Battle for the Bacon at the Ohio State Fair, a fun, lighthearted event that brings together legislators and youth livestock exhibitors. We hope all our participants gain a deeper appreciation for the dedication, skill, and passion that drive Ohio agriculture.”

The event is now in its third year and is organized by both the Ohio Department of Agriculture and the Ohio Pork Council. It features bipartisan participation from both chambers of the legislature. Lawmakers are paired with youth from across Ohio to highlight swine showmanship skills while recognizing mentorship within agricultural programs such as 4-H and FFA.

House Agriculture Committee Chairman State Rep. Roy Klopfenstein (R-Haviland), who served as one of the judges, noted his appreciation for seeing young people mentor legislators: “Having grown up in 4-H and FFA, it was an absolute honor to watch the interaction of Claire and all the other youth coaching the legislators on showing and the incredible outcomes,” he said. “It was a privilege and a pleasure to serve as one of the judges to showcase the skills of not only the youth, but the legislator’s ability to learn.”

Rep. Bob Peterson (R-Sabina), another judge at this year’s showdown, also acknowledged partnerships formed during preparation for competition: “I was very proud of my fellow legislators and the 4-H exhibitors who helped train them,” Peterson said. “Rep. Ghanbari, especially, did a great job presenting his hog throughout the show.”