Vidalia Onion Committee Names Grower of the Year
The 2014 Grower of the Year was awarded to McLain Farms. McLain Farms is a 2nd generation family farm, owned and operated by brothers, Brett and Rusty McLain. McLain Farms began growing Vidalia onions in 1985 with just 12 acres and built their first cold storage in 1994. McLain Farms has continued to grow and expand its facilities, which now grows over 375 acres of onions.
Derek Levy, a local account manager for Bayer Cropscience was awarded the Committee’s debut Service Excellence Award. This award was established to recognize dedication and diligence to the Vidalia Onion Industry.
During the banquet, Senator Jack Hill was also inducted into the Vidalia Onion Hall of Fame for his instrumental work in establishing the Vidalia Onion Research Center. Senator Hill was instrumental in solidifying the collaboration between the University of Georgia College of Agriculture, the Georgia Department of Corrections, the Georgia Forestry Commission and the Georgia Department of Agriculture. In fact, he valued this cooperation as an example of how State departments should look for ways to work together.
The awards were presented by Vidalia Onion Committee Chairman Jason Herndon. “I was honored to present the Grower of the Year Award to McLain Farms who recognize excellence in quality, production and service to the Vidalia Onion Committee. And Derek Levy has contributed so much time and effort to our industry, the new Service Excellence Award was well deserved as it recognizes his passion, dedication and ongoing service.” “Senator Jack Hill has long been an avid friend of the Vidalia onion industry. He served for many years as public member of the Vidalia Onion Committee.”
For more information:
Contact:
Susan Waters
Vidalia Onion Committee
Tel: (912) 537-1918
Swaters@vidaliaonion.org