Calling THE Hog Raising the University of Arkansas Mascot c Calling the hogs sounds a little different for Keith and Julie Stokes of Dardanelle. Instead of “Woo Pig Sooie,” they prefer “here big boy,” the family nickname for the official University of Arkansas mascot, Tusk. The Stokes said Tusk belongs to every Razorback fan; however, they are the ones who have always been responsible for the care of the beloved mascot, from Tusk I to Tusk V. Almost every Razorback fan can recognize Tusk, but behind our beloved Tusk, there is a great story with a greater family. Keith searched extensively for a mascot representative to spice up the atmosphere at University of Arkansas sporting events. In 1997, he finally found a Russian and European cross, called a razorback, highlighting the line down its back. Tusk I came from Greenbrier, making him and his sons true Arkansans. The ability to care for Tusk comes from Keith’s background in agriculture. At the time Tusk I was found, Keith was the president of the Arkansas Pork Producers Association and a swine producer. He uses this knowledge to not only care for Tusk but to educate the public about agriculture. “Tusk is a way that we can tell our ag story. He gives me the foot in the door to talk about farmers and to educate others that no one loves their animals or land more than a farmer,” said Keith. “There is a farm family behind that milk and meat, and Tusk helps make that connection for people.” The Stokes focus on making sure each Tusk is safe, healthy and happy. Tusk is a part of the family, and their primary concern is his health and well-being. “We want people to drive by and say, ‘I don’t know who takes care of that pig, but they do a darn good job,’” said Julie. “There is a farm family behind that milk and meat, and Tusk helps make that connection for people.” –Keith Stokes A commonly used quote in University of Arkansas recruitment efforts and the Stokes family is, “There are dozens of lions, tigers and bears, but there is only one Razorback.” Tusk’s identity and personality truly make him unique, including the process for selecting future Tusks. All of the breeding decisions for the Tusk lineage are made by Keith and Julie. Tusk is one of only two, lined college mascots, where the father sires the replacement. It took two years to locate two potential mothers for the next razorback, Tusk V. The decision was made based on breed, coloring and overall disposition. ARKANSAS GROWN 61
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