In the news
NEWS BITES THAT MATTER
Regional winners of the Premier’s Award announced
The Premier’s Award for Agri-Food Innovation Excellence recognizes innovative farmers across the province. The five-year, $2.5 million award was announced in the 2006 provincial budget. Up to 55 winners are chosen annually and a cash prize of $5,000 each is awarded. Recipients are eligible to win a Minister’s Award of up to $50,000 and a Premier’s Award of up to $100,000.
Regional winners span the agricultural sector and the province representing all aspects of agriculture including horticulture, bee-keeping, livestock production and cash cropping among other more niche market activities.
Harry Buurma was recognized for his innovative use of biosolid pellets for fertilizer on his farm. Buurma, a delegate for GFO from the Lambton area, altered his spreader to make it more efficient and environmentally responsible when spreading the pellets. •
GFO?looking for young leaders
Grain Farmers of Ontario will sponsor one couple or individual from Ontario to take part in the American Soybean Association/Dupont Young Leader Program. The program’s goal is to help train the next generation of leaders for the North American soybean industry. 2011 Young Leaders applications are being accepted by GFO until July 31, 2010.
The 2010 class of Young Leaders and their spouses will participate in a challenging and educational leadership experience Dec 5 to 8, 2010 at Pioneer headquarters in Johnston, Iowa, and then complete training March 1 to 5, 2011 In Tampa, Florida, in conjunction with the annual Commodity Classic.
Any Ontario soybean grower who is 21 years of age or older may apply. Spouses and/or significant others participate in all aspects as the training is useful on or off the farm. The Young Leader program is sponsored by Pioneer Hi-Bred, a DuPont Business.
Applications and more information can be found at www.gfo.ca/youngleadersprogram or by calling 1-800-265-0550. •
Canada Bread breaks ground in Hamilton
Ground was broken on a new 375,000 square foot bakery located in Hamilton in late June. Upon completion, the Canada Bread facility will be the largest bakery in the country and one of the most efficient on the continent, producing high quality products at low cost, says the company.
Canada Bread plans to invest over $100 million to construct the bakery which will support up to 300 new jobs, 31 seasonal positions and approximately 115 construction jobs. The new bakery will produce fresh baked products such as breads, rolls, bagels and artisan bread products that will be distributed domestically.
As Canada Bread is an important customer of Ontario wheat, Grain Farmers of Ontario CEO, Barry Senft and Chair, Don Kenny were on hand at the groundbreaking ceremony. •
