Building on Strong Foundations for the Future

Spring 2014
Building on Strong Foundations for the Future
NEW PRESIDENT
AND CEO
- MICHAEL BARRETT
GAY LEA FOODS
ACQUIRES SALERNO
DAIRY
- SEE INSERT
NEW CHAIR
OF THE BOARD
- PAUL VICKERS
Return undeliverable Gazettes to:
Gay Lea Foods Co-operative
21 Speedvale Avenue West
Guelph, ON N1H 1J5
1
President’s Report
A
s everyone seems to feel, this has been a
long “old fashioned” winter that does not
want to end – but the optimists know that
spring is about to burst upon us. With five
months completed in our fiscal year, it is also a
time to reflect on our progress and to consider the
opportunities that lie ahead.
There is no
doubt that
we can
continue on
that road
from “good
to great.”
Of course the most notable initiative of the past few
months has been the acquisition of Salerno as part
of the Gay Lea family. The response from customers and employees alike has been very supportive,
and after only one month the integration is going
well. The team has been focused on leading a transition that maximizes the synergies and opportunities that are rooted in this long standing Ontario
based cheese business. The first month met our
expectations and we are optimistic about the potential.
The base Gay Lea business saw a share of ups and
downs. Overall sales have been strong, up 5% over
budget after five months, but the mix of what we sold
was different than planned. Strong sales in dry ingredients, butter and fluid milk were offset by lower
sales in cultured products and cheese. This mix
shift had a significant impact on margin. Our gross
profit is off plan by 7% due to the shift in lower margin products, as well as higher retail trade spending
and higher plant variances. Looking to the balance
of the year, continued focus on our higher margin
categories and improving plant variances will be key
to our success.
There has been a lot written and discussed about
pressures on supply management and the impact of
trade agreements. Recently there have been renewed industry discussions on the need for an overall ingredient strategy. Dairy ingredients are a big
part of our business and we welcome industry leadership in what we consider to be a major need and
opportunity.
It seems that only a few issues ago I was drafting my
first Gazette article and here I stand, writing my last.
It has been a privilege to lead this organization over
the past 12 years. I believe we have done some
great things together. I am also very optimistic
about the opportunities that lie ahead. With the
leadership of Michael Barrett, surrounded by a team
of great people and Board members, there is no limit
to what you can accomplish. There is no doubt that
we can continue on that road from “good to great.”
Andrew MacGillivray
Retiring President and CEO
New President’s Report
I
t is with great honour that I assumed the role of President and
CEO of Gay Lea Foods on April 1 2014. In recognizing the
strong contribution of Andy MacGillivray, I am proud to follow
in his footsteps as I strive for the very best for our cooperative.
Gay Lea has a strong history of co-operative leadership. The dedication of our board, delegates and members to make decisions
and set direction for our co-operative is what has made Gay Lea
Foods what it is today – a principled organization with strong values and a vision for solid growth. I am proud to continue this honourable tradition and am committed to the continued success of
our co-operative.
It is a challenging time in the food industry as market pressures
and retail competition impact our margins. It is an apprehensive
time as the supply management debate plays out in the media
and in the boardrooms of dairy organizations and as international
trade partnerships remain a priority for our government.
But it is also an exciting time at Gay Lea Foods as we look to optimize opportunities in our recent acquisition and property purchases and set in motion a long-term strategic plan that ensures the
prosperity of our co-operative and the security of our members’
investments.
We are confident in the foundations we have laid over the past 58
years. Our governance model is exemplary in the co-operative
2
sector in Canada. Our people –
board, delegates and employees – continue to grow their
skills through training and development. Our continued investment in new technology has
brought greater efficiencies to
our manufacturing facilities and
our business processes. Our
brands have remained a leader
in the marketplace. Our community spirit in rural Ontario and
our contributions in developing
nations are a tribute to the spirit of concern and caring that has
guided us for more than 55 years.
Over the course of our history, we have achieved success in our
many endeavours through innovation, determination and cooperation. We will not waiver in our efforts as we set new goals,
plan the future and follow the path we set out for ourselves.
We are confident in our abilities as we set our sights on new priorities for the years ahead. We are focused on the interests of our
owner-members and excited about the future of Gay Lea Foods.
Michael Barrett
President and C.E.O.
Rapport du Président
T
out le monde en parle, nous avons eu un
long hiver « du bon vieux temps » qui n’en
finit pas de finir, mais les optimistes savent
que le printemps est presque arrivé. Nous
avons terminé cinq mois de notre exercice financier,
et c’est aussi un bon moment pour revenir sur nos
progrès et pour regarder les possibilités qui nous
attendent.
Sans aucun
doute, vous
serez
capables
d’avancer
sur la voie
de
l’excellence.
Bien entendu, la plus grande initiative au cours des
derniers mois a été l’acquisition de Salerno, qui fait
maintenant partie de la famille Gay Lea. La réaction
des clients et du personnel a été très positive, et
après un mois seulement, l’intégration va très bien.
L’équipe a concentré ses efforts sur une transition
qui permettait de profiter au maximum des synergies
et des possibilités à la base de cette entreprise fromagère bien établie de l’Ontario. Dès le premier
mois, nos attentes ont été comblées et nous voyons
avec optimisme les possibilités que nous apporte
cette acquisition.
Les produits de base de Gay Lea ont connu leur part
de hauts et de bas. Dans l’ensemble, les ventes ont
été bonnes, dépassant le budget de 5 % pendant
ces cinq premiers mois, mais la répartition des produits vendus a été très différente de ce que nous
avions prévu. Les ventes considérables d’ingrédients secs, de beurre et de lait liquide ont été contrebalancées par des ventes plus faibles des produits de culture et du fromage. Cet écart a considérablement affecté nos marges. Notre profit brut est
inférieur au plan de 7 % parce que les produits qui
se sont le mieux vendus rapportaient des marges
moins élevées, en plus des frais plus élevés du secteur du commerce de détail et de variations plus
considérables de la production des usines. Pour le
reste de l’année, nous devrons continuer à concentrer nos efforts sur les catégories de produits comportant des marges plus élevées et sur une production plus régulière de nos usines.
On a beaucoup écrit et discuté les pressions qui
s’exercent sur la gestion de l’offre et l’impact des
accords commerciaux. Dernièrement, les discussions ont repris au sein de l’industrie au sujet de la
nécessité d’une stratégie générale concernant les
ingrédients. Les ingrédients laitiers sont un élément
considérable de notre chiffre d’affaires et nous accueillons le leadership de l’industrie pour cette question, qui est pour nous un besoin urgent aussi bien
qu’une occasion importante.
Il me semble que ça ne fait pas si longtemps que je
rédigeais mon premier article pour la Gazette, et me
voici en train d’écrire le dernier. Ce fut pour moi un
privilège de diriger cet organisme au cours des
douze dernières années. Je crois que nous avons
réalisé ensemble de grandes choses, et je reste très
optimiste devant les possibilités que nous offre l’avenir. Avec le leadership de Michael Barrett, entouré
d’une équipe d’excellent(e)s employé(e)s et
membres du conseil d’administration, vous avez des
possibilités illimitées. Sans aucun doute, vous serez
capables d’avancer sur la voie de l’excellence.
Andrew MacGillivray
Président sortant et CEO
Report from the Chair
I
t has been an exciting end to winter at Gay Lea Foods as we
made announcements that set out new plans and opportunities
for the months to come. We expect spring and summer to be a
time of transition in many ways for our co-operative.
On April 1, our co-operative entered a new stage with a change in
administration. The Board of Directors would like to thank Andrew
MacGillivray for his many contributions to Gay Lea Foods, as he
starts the next chapter of his life. Over the past 12 years, we have
seen Andrew unite our co-operative, creating strong links between
our members and our employees. His dedication has brought our
co-operative to new levels of performance and returns.
At the same time, we are confident in the passion and enthusiasm
that Michael Barrett’s leadership brings to Gay Lea Foods. For 15
years, we have seen Michael refresh and develop our programs
and processes as his responsibilities in our business increased.
His influence has brought about positive change across many levels of our organization. We look forward to the future under his
guidance for many years to come.
In addition to our leadership transition, many areas of the business
will be working together to blend in our new line of products. Our
acquisition of Salerno Dairy has set our path for growth as we increase our share of the Canadian cheese sector, broadening our
offerings in a category of growth within the dairy industry. We be-
lieve Salerno’s collection of
specialty Italian cheeses complement our current Ivanhoe
Cheese products; with their
distinct channels of distribution,
Salerno introduces great prospects for both brands to establish new relationships and increase sales with new customers. This acquisition is yet another example of our cooperative fulfilling the expectations of our members and of
our employees.
This year I personally look forward to the privilege of serving as Chair of Gay Lea Foods. I am
committed to working with the board and executive to create strategic goals and meet our aspirations for success. Together we will
continue to strive for excellence as our co-operative continues towards reaching its full potential.
Paul Vickers
Chair of the Board
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PAUL VICKERS, NEWLY ELECTED CHAIR OF THE BOARD
By Communications Coordinator, DEBRA SELKIRK
Newly-elected chair Paul Vickers
lives in Northern Grey County on the
second generation farmstead where he
grew up. He and his family milk fifty
cows and raise all of their replacement
heifers; they also grow corn and barley
as cash crops.
Paul attended high school in Meaford,
then continued his education at the University of Guelph, receiving his Diploma
in Agriculture. While at university he
represented his class at the Student
Federation of the Ontario Agricultural
College. In 1994, he received the Distinguished Achievement Award for the
West Central Region from Holstein Ontario.
Paul is proud of his long history at Gay
Lea Foods. He started first as a
member in the early 1980s, attending
the zone annual meetings. In feeling he
wanted to become more
involved with our cooperative, he decided to
run for delegate, a role
he filled for twelve years.
He also held the position
of zone chair. In 2001,
he went on to run for the
board of directors, successfully serving four
terms. During his tenure
on the board, he has
been Chair of the Governance Committee and the Audit Committee. He was also vice Chair for four
years before being elected as Chair at
the AGM in late January.
Paul is looking forward to the challengTHEopportunities
SPOTLIGHT as Gay Lea continesINand
ues to bring Salerno under the Gay Lea
umbrella from a business and process
perspective and begins its transition in
leadership, He believes in the strength
of teamwork and affirms that as a cooperative, we are Better Together.
WELCOME NEW DELEGATES!
Zone 2: Ben Loewith , Lynden, Hamilton- Wentworth
Zone 2: Rob McKinley, Beachville, Oxford County
Zone 3: Marie Hammell, Dobbinton, Bruce County
Zone 4: Charles Bennett, Kemptville, Grenville County
Zone 4: Colin Lake: Stirling, Hastings County
Past Chair Mark Hamel with new delegates Colin Lake, Marie
Hammell, Charles Bennett, Ben Loewith and Rob McKinley
Gay Lea Welcomes the
Following New Members
Brad Beaudoin, Oakville
Patrick Daoust, Finch
Bradley Fledderus, Lowbanks
Greaveston Farms, North Augusta
Ingrid Gropp, Milverton
Wayne & Elaine Kittmer, Embro
Edward Nichols, Campbellford
Tyler Ruetz, Mildmay
Marie-Josee Van de Laar, Casselman
Maxine & Sébastien Van de Laar, Casselman
4
What is it?
Answer and explanation found on page 11 in the “News from the
Museum” section on pg. 11
OTTAWA VALLEY FARM SHOW 2014
The Ottawa Valley Farm Show was a success once again this year. The snow was in no way an obstacle as it didn’t
stop visitors from attending the show. They welcomed over 350 exhibitors, including Gay Lea Foods this past March
12th, 13th, and 14th. The show which for the past 87 years has been sponsored by the Ottawa Seed Growers association: One new addition this year, Gay Lea had the opportunity to sell milk for the first time at the Ottawa Valley
Farm Show with all net proceeds from the sale of milk being donated to the 4-H Foundation and the Cooperative
Development Foundation of Canada. Gay Lea Foods will be donating $390 to each respective organization which is
great for our first year of milk sales.
Steve, Jennifer, Carter & Lizzy Black
enjoying their Gay Lea milk
We would like to thank the OVFS for the opportunity to sell milk as it was very well received. We would also like to
thank Anderson Links Golf and Country Club for allowing us to store our product on site, as well to all to their staff
who were very helpful and supportive. Overall the farm show was a great success!
INFLATABLE FUN FOR OUR MEMBERS!
By Member Services Rep. WENDY HASSON
Gay Lea Foods is pleased to offer you the opportunity to reserve an inflatable bouncy cow to be used at your next dairy
social event. This bouncer is available to you, free of charge,
compliments of Gay Lea Foods. This inflatable cow is 30 feet
long x 20 feet deep by 12 feet high. It comes with its own
blower to inflate the bouncer and it takes approximately 10
minutes to completely inflate.
The Cow Bouncers will be available for
pick-up at our Guelph Plant location on
21 Speedvale Avenue West in Guelph.
The committee that books the bouncer is
responsible to pick up the bouncer at our
Guelph Plant and return it to us at the
completion of your event. We require at
least two week’s notice in order to reserve a bouncer for your event and it is available on a first
come first serve basis. A refundable damage deposit is required before the bouncer can be picked up. There will also
be a late fee applied if the bouncer is not returned by the designated timeline.
Due to insurance coverage and liability issues, this cow
bouncer is restricted for use at dairy events, twilight meetings
and industry functions only and the event must also be held
on private property. Gay Lea Foods will not grant permission
for the bouncer to be used at any fall fairs or large community
events. We will also not entertain requests for the bouncer to
be utilized at any event where there will be a midway of rides
set-up. The bouncer is not available for any personal use i.e.
birthday parties, community picnics, family
reunions, church functions, etc. Gay Lea
Foods reserves the right to decline any application submitted and all decisions are
final.
At Gay Lea Foods, we appreciate the support of our members and providing this dairy
cow bouncer is a token of our appreciation
to your commitment to Gay Lea Foods. We
hope that all the children at your next dairy event can have
hours of “bouncy” fun!
To book the bouncer or for more information contact:
Shannon Kavanagh Seguin at [email protected]
or call 1-855-845-9039
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New Zone 4 Board Member - Chris Johnson
By Member Services Rep. SHANNON KAVANAGH-SÉGUIN
Chris’s family farm is located in Chesterville ON.. They operate as a
partnership between two generations; his parents, Gord and Marilyn, along with Chris and his wife Leslie.
Tell us about your history and where you come from.
Donilyn Farms was purchased by my parents, Gord and Marilyn, in
1973 when I was 5 years
old. In the beginning,
they were milking cows
into buckets and built the
60 cow tie-stall barn in
1975. I started my farming career after graduating from the University of
Guelph in the class of
1990 with a Bachelor of
Science degree in Agricultural Economics. Upon returning home to the
family farm, I started
Chris & Leslie Johnson
working on registering all
our animals and getting
the farm to the pure-bred operation it
is today.
My parents were role models; they were very active within the community (fair board, foster-parents, municipal council, DFO board as
well as local committees). When I was young I always said that that
wasn’t for me, however, that has since changed quite a bit and now
I am happy to have served on my local milk committee, soil and
crop association and Gay Lea Foods for the past 7 years as a delegate and now as a Zone 4 Director.
Tell us about your family, hobbies and special interests
I met Leslie in high school. After university we got married and have
three beautiful daughters. Two are currently in university, Rebecca
at Carlton studying Commerce, Kathryn at the University of Guelph
studying Environmental Sciences. The youngest, Ashley, is in grade
11. All three girls went to the same schools I did and coincidentally,
had the same high school bus driver.
Leslie and the girls enjoy dance and performing in a local production in alternating years. I play soccer. When I was 34 I discovered
martial arts and soon after, the family joined as well. I am 2nd degree blackbelt, Leslie a kickboxing instructor, Kathryn is also a
blackbelt, and hopefully Ashley will be as well this April. Rebecca
has remained a hard core dancer and now a Ravens Cheerleader.
became involved in the Delegate Governance Advisory Committee
(DGAC). I have participated in the Leadership in Governance (LIG)
foundation training program which served as a primer for the Advanced LIG program, which I completed this past May (2013). This
program consisted of six modules over almost two years, culminating in the completion of a report and a presentation to the Board of
Gay Lea Foods. I have found that Gay Lea Foods makes people
better; it is a family oriented organization with strong values.
Why did you choose to become a Director for GLF
Becoming a Director was a natural progression. I want to be better
and continue the learning process, and help to make Gay Lea
Foods better. GLF has invested in me as a delegate, and becoming
a Director was a means of giving back. Within Gay Lea Foods you
always feel your opinion matters, which encourages you to become
more involved.
I have the sense that Gay Lea Foods will become more important to
us all in the future and we must be capable of meeting our member’s needs.
What do you hope to bring to the Board table?
The training that I have done through Gay Lea, with the associated
tools and skills, is still fresh. With the new challenges and opportunities ahead I feel that I will be able to bring a fresh approach to
meeting them. Over the past 7 years, I have been working towards
this goal, although I may not have defined it as a goal until more
recently. I hope to bring a creative leadership approach to the
Board table, as well as enthusiasm and a different, creative perspective to planning and problem solving.
If you had a crystal ball, where do you see GLF in the future?
A lot can happen in 5 years. I would like to see new products, as
well as us working towards a world class facility at the Clayson site
and hopefully a national presence. Gay Lea’s charitable foundation
will also be something that will be impacting the community and I
see this developing further in time.. I would also like to see our
Leadership In Governance program expanded to other organizations as I believe governance is a major strength.
As I reflect on my involvement in Gay Lea Foods, I realize several
things. I realize that I believe in the co-operative business model
and principals; the governance structure and their commitment to
promoting excellence in governance; and I believe in the people of
this organization.
Tell us about your farming operation?
Donilyn Farms consists of a 50 Holstein tie-stall
operation with an above ground manures system
and a smart feeder. We have 470 acres of land
which is divided into 4 parcels. We currently grow all
our own feed. Some of the acreage is dedicated to
cash crop as well.
Why did your family choose to become members of
Gay Lea Foods Co-operative Ltd?
We originally became members of Gay Lea Foods
to get a glimpse of the processing side of the industry and mostly for informational purposes. We realized that it was a good investment, but also, that
you are drawn to the people. In 2006 I became a
delegate and then became Chair for Zone 4. I also
6
Donilyn Farms in Chesterville, ON
Chris Johnson – Administrateur de la Zone 4
By Member Services Rep. SHANNON KAVANAGH-SÉGUIN
La ferme familiale de Chris se trouve à Chesterville ON. Elle est
exploitée en partenariat par deux générations de sa famille, ses
parents, Gord and Marilyn, de même que son épouse, Leslie.
Parlez-nous de vos antécédents
Mes parents, Gord and Marilyn, ont acheté la ferme Donilyn en
1973, quand j’avais 5 ans. Au début, ils faisaient la traite des
vaches dans des seaux et ils ont construit l’étable à stabulation
entravée en 1975, pour loger 60 vaches. J’ai commencé ma carrière à la ferme après avoir terminé mes études à l’Université de
Guelph, où j’ai obtenu en 1990 un baccalauréat ès sciences en
économie agricole. Revenu chez moi à la ferme familiale, j’ai commencé à enregistrer tous nos animaux et à transformer la ferme
pour en faire l’exploitation de bovins de race qu’elle est maintenant.
Mes parents ont été mes modèles, ils étaient très actifs dans la
communauté (Conseil d’administration de la foire, parents nourriciers, conseil municipal, Conseil d’administration de DFO et
membres de comités locaux. Quand j’étais jeune je disais toujours
dit que ça ne m’intéressait pas, mais, j’ai changé et maintenant je
suis heureux d’avoir fait partie au cours des sept dernières années
de mon comité local du lait, de l’association du sol et des récoltes,
puis de Gay Lea à titre de délégué et maintenant d’administrateur
de la Zone 4.
Parlez-nous de votre famille, de vos passe-temps et de vos intérêts
particuliers
J’ai rencontré Leslie à l’école secondaire. Après mes études universitaires, nous nous sommes mariés et nous avons eu trois belles
filles. Deux d’entre elles sont maintenant à l’université, Rebecca
étudie le commerce à Carleton, et Kathryn, les sciences de l’environnement à l’Université de Guelph. La plus jeune, Ashley, est en
11è année. Toutes les trois ont fréquenté les mêmes écoles que
moi et ont même eu le même chauffeur d’autobus scolaire.
Leslie et mes filles aiment la danse et participent à des spectacles
locaux tous les deux
ans. Je joue au soccer.
À 34 ans, j’ai découvert
les arts martiaux, et peu
après, toute ma famille
s’y est aussi intéressée.
J’ai une ceinture noire
du 2e degré, Leslie est
instructrice de kickboxing, Kathryn est
aussi ceinture noire, et
j’espère qu’Ashley le
Chris and Leslie’s daughters, Ashley, Kathryn and
deviendra en avril. ReRebecca Johnson
becca est restée passionnée de danse et
elle est maintenant meneuse de claque pour les Ravens.
Parlez-nous de votre exploitation agricole.
La ferme Donilyn possède 50 Holsteins dans une exploitation à
stalles entravées, avec 470 acres de terres réparties en 4 parcelles.
En ce moment nous cultivons nous-mêmes tous les aliments de
nos animaux. Une partie des terres sert aussi à des cultures commerciales. L’étable à stabulation entravée a un système de fumier
en surface, et nous utilisons en ce moment un distributeur d’aliments intelligent.
Pourquoi votre famille a-t-elle choisi de faire partie de la Coopérative Gay Lea?
Nous sommes d’abord devenus membres de Gay Lea pour avoir
une idée de l’aspect de la transformation des produits laitiers, et
surtout pour mieux nous renseigner. Nous nous sommes rendu
compte que c’était un bon investissement, mais aussi, nous y avons
rencontré des gens sympathiques. Plus tard, en 2006, je suis devenu délégué, et ensuite président de la Zone 4. De plus, je me suis
engagé dans le Comité consultatif des délégués sur la gouvernance
(CCDG). J’ai participé au programme de formation de la Fondation
Leadership in Governance (LIG), qui servait d’introduction au programme avancé de LIG que j’ai terminé en mai dernier (2013). Ce
programme comportait
8 modules répartis sur
presque deux ans, se
terminant par la rédaction d’un rapport et une
présentation devant le
Conseil d’administration de Gay Lea. J’ai
trouvé que Gay Lea
aide les gens à se perfectionner; c’est un
organisme axé sur la
famille et possédant de
solides valeurs.
Pourquoi
avez-vous
choisi
de
devenir
membre du Conseil
d’administration
de
Gay Lea?
Ce fut une progression
naturelle. Je désire me perfectionner et poursuivre le processus
d’apprentissage, et aider à l’amélioration de Gay Lea. La coopérative a investi en moi à titre de délégué, et devenir directeur était
pour moi un moyen de lui redonner. Les gens de Gay Lea ont toujours l’impression que la coopérative tient compte de leurs opinions,
ce qui les encourage à participer encore plus.
J’ai l’impression que Gay Lea prendra beaucoup plus d’importance
pour nous tous à l’avenir, et que nous devons être capables de répondre aux besoins de nos membres.
Qu’espérez-vous apporter au Conseil d’administration?
J’ai encore toute fraîche à la mémoire la formation que j’ai reçue
grâce à Gay Lea, ainsi que les outils et les capacités qui en découlent. Je crois être capable de contribuer une façon novatrice de
réagir devant les défis et les possibilités nouvelles qui nous attendent. Au cours des sept dernières années, je me suis dirigé vers ce
but, même si c’est assez récemment que je l’aie reconnu comme un
objectif. J’espère apporter une approche créative en matière de
leadership, en plus de mon enthousiasme et d’une perspective différente, créative, concernant la planification et la résolution des
problèmes.
Si vous aviez une boule de cristal, où verriez-vous Gay Lea dans
quelques années?
Bien des choses peuvent se produire en cinq ans. J’aimerais voir
de nouveaux produits, en plus de nos efforts pour transformer
l’usine de Clayson en un établissement de calibre mondial, et pour,
je l’espère, faire sentir notre présence au niveau national. La fondation philanthropique de Gay Lea devrait également bénéficier à la
collectivité, et je vois cette influence croître avec le temps. J’aimerais aussi voir notre programme de Leadership in Governance élargi pour rejoindre d’autres organismes, parce que je suis convaincu
que la gouvernance et une valeur d’importance capitale.
Quand je réfléchis à ma participation à Gay Lea, je me rends
compte de plusieurs choses. Je réalise que je crois au modèle d’affaires d’une coopérative et à ses principes, à sa structure de gouvernance et à son engagement à poursuivre l’excellence en matière
de gouvernance, et je crois en la valeur des gens qui font7partie de
l’organisme.
A FOND FAREWELL TO ANDY MACGILLIVRAY
By Communications Coordinator, DEBRA SELKIRK
It was an evening of laughs, fond memories and tears. Gay
Lea bid Andy MacGillivray a fond farewell as he enters the
next chapter of his life - what Andy calls "explorement".
12 years. 5 chair of the boards. Now 850 employees. From
$232 million to $563 million in sales. The numbers were a
strong record of his contribution to our co-operative. When
he arrived, what others called "a sleepy hollow". As he
leaves, a dynamic co-operative with a strong presence in the
dairy industry.
But the real testament to Andy's contribution does not lie in
the numbers. It lies in his humility as employees remembered him eating a sandwich in the cafeteria, wishing them
Merry Christmas, getting his own coffee.
And at the farewell at the Kingbridge Centre, nothing represented that kindness more than a little girl named Charlotte,
daughter of delegate Jennifer Woodhouse, who came to
give Andy a picture she painted for him. Their connection
made at a delegate meeting, they chatted and exchanged
cards over the past few years and she wanted to say goodbye.
And then there is the story of the Salerno employee, who
only met him once, but was so impressed, he had his son do
a sketch of Andy in honour of his retirement.
Our board, directors, delegates and employees were in the
room, as were industry leaders - the likes of the DFO and
even our competitors. Speeches brought smiles and tears.
Andy in his down-to-earth way asked two people in the room
to yell, "Suck it up, MacGillivray" when he started to falter....which brought laughs at bittersweet moments and kept
Important Notice Regarding
Change in Share Purchase Deadline
Effective February 2014, your Board of
Directors approved changes to the dates
for which Investor Shares can be purchased by Gay Lea Foods Members. Members wishing to purchase
greater than 100 Investor Shares now
have a deadline of June 30th to do
so. Members are still able to purchase
100 shares or less between July 1st and
September 30th. It is imperative you get
into contact with a Member Services Rep
well ahead of this new deadline to ensure we can get out to see you. The
deadline to apply for Membership
(Producer or Investor) is June 30th as
well, so the time of Gay Lea’s MSR’s
gets booked up very quickly in June. As
alwayAs, if you have any questions surrounding this change, please don’t hesitate to get into contact with any member
of the MR Team listed on the back of the
Gazette.
8
Charlotte Woodhouse, daughter of GLF delegate Jennifer Woodhouse, presenting
Andy MacGillivray with her original painting as a retirement gift.
the mood light.
It is the end of an era at Gay Lea Foods. Andy will be greatly
missed but he is not 100% gone. He will remain as a consultant to our board for the next two years. And we know we
will all be glad to see him when he returns for a visit.
As the next era begins, Gay Lea has exciting plans, a strong
and capable leadership team, and an acquisition to keep us
focused on continuing to grow our business.
Thank you, Andy MacGillivray, for all you did for Gay Lea
Foods.
NOTICE to all Gay Lea Members with
a Corporate or Limited Company
By Member Relations Supervisor, SANDRA ALTON
If you hold patronage shares in a corporate or limited company membership
name, this notice is to advise you that when the first series of patronage shares
are targeted for redemption in 2015 (subject to Board Approval), they will be
paid out in the name they were issued to (as per Canada Revenue Agency
rules). If you have (or plan to) shut down your corporate or limited company
before all series’ of patronage shares have been redeemed, you should consider keeping it open to ensure you can receive these payments. If a payment
comes out to you and you cannot deposit the funds, there is nothing Gay Lea
Foods can do. Worth noting is there will be a tax slip filed for any of the income
from these patronage shares (less 15% withholding tax), regardless of your ability to deposit the funds at the time of redemption. A detailed letter regarding this
subject was mailed to all members with a Corporate or Limited company name
on file in late March. We want to ensure you receive these payments without
any issues, so encourage you to discuss this with your accountant if you are in a
position where you are shutting down the business name.
The Member Relations Team is here to assist you with any questions you may
have regarding this notice, so please do not hesitate to call!
Class 3 - 2014 CLP
Participants Announced!
Outgoing Zone 4 Director,
Barton MacLean
Gay Lea Foods’ Inter-Provincial
Co-operative Leadership Program
The committee charged with selecting 10 participants
for the 3rd Class of the Co-operative Leadership Program had a very tough time deciding upon the final
participants due to the qualifications of the applicants
received. We are pleased to share the names of the
successful candidates, who will have completed their
first session of the program at Gay Lea’s head office
in Mississauga on April 9th and 10th . We will be sharing an update of the session in the summer edition of
the Gazette.
Participants Listed below by Zone
Zone 1 · Krista Boersen - Gadshill
Zone 1 · Dylan Stewardson - Thedford
Zone 2 · Heather Peart - Hagersville
Zone 2 · David Ellison - Listowel
Zone 2 · Wesley Emmott - Brantford
Zone 3 · Rob Kirkconnell - Owen Sound
Zone 3 · Stephen Sikma - Orono
Zone 3 · Andrew Bennett - Mildmay
Zone 4 · Chris Brown -Yarker
Zone 4 · Geert Rijke - Hammond
Gay Lea Foods would like to extend our sincere thanks to Barton MacLean,
Zone 4 Director, who served three years on the Board of Directors. Barton
and Barbara were presented with some special gifts at our Annual General
Meeting in January. We wish you all the best Barton & Barbara!
LEADERSHIP IN GOVERNANCE ADVANCED PROGRAM
NOW RECRUITING FOR CLASS 2!
Good governance and leadership has long been recognized leadership team in the spring of 2016.
as a decisive factor in the economic performance of co- Are you interested? More information and application forms
operatives. Gay Lea Foods has built an enviable reputation are available by contacting Ove Hansen at ohanfor providing education and training development opportuni- s e n @ g a y l e a f o o d s . c o m
or
Quintin
Fox
at
ties for members, delegates and directors. Gay Lea Foods’ [email protected]. The deadline for applications is
award winning Leadership in Governance program is active- August 13, 2014
ly seeking recruits for the second class of the Ad2013 LiG Advanced Class:
vanced Program.
Andrew Henderson, Dennis Bryson, Bill van Andel, Steve Veldman, Gerald Schipper, David Good, Don
The Advanced Program will involve a more intensive
Dietrich, Rob Goodwill, Chris Johnson, Louise Ahrens, Larry Parkin, and Steve Dolson
style of learning, challenging
participants to develop themselves even further. Starting in
October 2014, the 18-month
program will include six 2 day
modules which build on the
skills and knowledge gained
through the LiG Foundation
Program. Participants will also
be working on two projects during the program which focus on
strategic issues that could impact and benefit Gay Lea
Foods, culminating in presentations to the Board and senior
9
Western Fair Farm Show
A Real Crowd Pleaser
Gay Lea Food’s Member Relations team participated in the
Western Fair Farm Show, now in its 76th year in London, Ontario. The show drew upwards of 20,000 people and it ran
from March 5 to 7, 2014. This trade show is sometimes hindered by bad weather and snow storms but for 2014, Mother
Nature co-operated nicely with sunny skies and good driving
conditions. Attendees had a much larger show to see this
year with exhibits spanning over 275,000 sq. ft. on the Western Fair property.
Gay Lea Foods Co-operative Ltd. participated in this show
this year with a booth in the Progress Building. Delegates,
Directors and MR Staff were kept busy answering questions
about existing membership and also saw a good interest in
Perspective New Gay Lea Members. Chocolate and white
milk was also sold in the booth in order to support the Cooperative Development Foundation and the Ontario 4-H
Foundation. Close to $1100 will be split between the two
organizations.
Since 1947, the Co-operative Development Foundation of
Canada (CDF) has raised funds and rallied volunteers to
bring time-tested co-operative principles to developing countries. Working with the Canadian Co-operative Association
(CCA) and other partners, CDF supports vocational training
and co-operative savings and loans that let marginalized
people work, own, save and build the foundation for a secure
life.
The Ontario 4-H Foundation was started in 1998 and is a
federally incorporated charitable organization. Its mandate is
to receive and manage endowment funds and to encourage
on-going partnerships that will ensure the long-term sustainability of 4-H Ontario. Income from the Foundation is used to
train 4-H volunteers, develop timely new 4-H projects and
provide funding for provincial 4-H events.
We would like to thank the Directors and Delegates for donating their time to assist us in staffing this farm show.
Family Fun at Canada’s Wonderland!
On Saturday June 21, 2014, break out the
sunscreen, sun hats and sunglasses and
bring your thrill seeking enthusiasm to
Canada’s Wonderland for the Gay Lea
Foods Member and Employee Appreciation Day. This event is being hosted by
your co-operative and your admission ticket into the grounds and buffet lunch are all
being subsidized courtesy of Gay Lea
Foods. We appreciate the support that
you have given our co-operative either by
your investment and commitment as a
member or by your many years of dedication and loyalty as an employee and we
want to say thank you by offering you and
your family some quality fun time at Canada’s most exciting theme park located in
Vaughan, Ontario.
The day will begin with the park being
open one hour earlier, just for our group!
Our exclusive ride time program will provide you and your family the opportunity to
ride any of the following rides between
9:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. and we are the
only group that will be allowed to ride these rides during this timeframe. The rides
10
are the Behemoth, the Psyclone, the
Backlot Stunt Coaster and the Antique
Carousel. Wrist Bands will be allocated to
all Gay Lea guests so that you and your
family can utilize these rides exclusively at
these times.
At 11:00 a.m. our group will meet in the
Wonderland Theatre for a chance to win
some incredible door prizes and hear a
message from our Gay Lea Foods management team. From 11:30am to
12:30pm a delicious Buffet Lunch will be
served in the Courtyard Catering Facility
The menu includes Fried Chicken,
Hotdogs, Hamburgers, Veggie Burgers
and Dogs, Macaroni and Cheese, Tossed
Salad, Cold Pasta Salad, Soft Drinks and
of course Gay Lea Chocolate and White
Milk. All of our Gay Lea Guests will come
together at this time to enjoy some fellowship and delicious food.
If the weather is hot, don’t forget your
bathing suit as Canada’s Wonderland
Splash Works has a over 7 million litres of
heated water fun in their 20 acre water
park. Check out The Plunge, Supersoaker, the Lazy River, Pumphouse
and Canada's Largest Wave Pool. There
is something for everyone!
In order to plan your day you can visit
www.canadaswonderland.com for full
details of all rides and entertainment that
the park has to offer.
We are pleased to offer you admission
tickets, including the luncheon buffet for
an incredibly low price of just $40.75 per
Adult, $35.75 for Seniors and $25.75 for
Juniors. Please note that any guests over
48"/122cm in height, while wearing shoes,
are required to pay the adult admission
fee. Junior Passes are valid for children
age 3 and over who are under 48" or 122
cm tall. Senior Passes are for adults 60
years of age and better. Car Parking is an
extra fee at $7.50 per vehicle.
To order your tickets please call 519-8225530 Ext. 6268. The deadline for ticket
purchases are June 10, 2014. The park
hours of operation on June 21st are 9:00
a.m. until 10:00 p.m.
Please see enclosed ticket order form for
more details. It is your responsibility to
ensure you order the correct ticket for your
children. If you are unsure of which ticket
to order, please measure you child. Junior tickets are only good for rides appropriate for children under 48”
News From the Museum
www.dairyheritagemuseum.ca
Tel: 1-888-773-2955
Email: [email protected]
48075 Jamestown Line, RR # 2
Aylmer, ON, N5H 2R2
Monday - Saturday: 9 am - 5 pm
May 12, 2013 until Labour Day 2013
BY Museum Coordinator KIM TEUSCHER
WOODSTOCK DAIRY DAYS 2014
We took part, along with Woodstock Museum, in setting up a display and providing educational programming to Grade 4 students
in Oxford County. 100s of kids – 3 days – tons of fun!
OPENING DATES & NEW HOURS
For 2014, Gay Lea Dairy Heritage Museum will be open May 1 to
August 31. We will be open Tuesdays to Sundays, 9am to
5pm. Closed Mondays. In September we are open Saturdays
only from 9am to 5pm.
What is it ? ANSWER:
Milk Tokens
Milk Tokens were purchased by the customers on a milkman’s
route and were exchanged for various
sizes of milk and
cream. The colour and shape denoted the route and/or
product. The tokens would be left in the empty bottles in the
milkbox where the milkman would pick up the empty bottles,
leave the requested product and pocket the token marking it
in his book as he went.
Did you notice anything odd about them? One of the tokens has ‘Aylmer’ spelled incorrectly.
MOTHERS’ DAY SPRING WILDFLOWER WALK
Sunday, May 11, 2014. Come and enjoy the wildflowers and our
Carolinian Forest. Light refreshments will be served after your
museum tour. We have some binoculars available for those who
are interested in doing some bird watching.
NEW DISPLAYS
The staff has been hard at work this winter continuing to catalogue, research the artifacts and arrange them in new display formats with more explanatory labels and interactive activities. We
hope you enjoy our new look.
This year’s Central
Ontario
Membership meeting was a
great success. With
many members present, a fiscal update
was provided by
Dick Straathof, Zone
4 Director. Member
Relations provided
an activity update
and
membership
overview. Gay Lea Foods’ Marketing Assistant, Andrea Boileau,
presented the new “Born on the Farm” marketing campaign and
explained the initiatives behind it. Andrea also spoke about how
well received the new campaign has been. There were several
fantastic door prizes such as Ivanhoe cheese gift baskets and Gay
Lea Foods’ new Cinnamon Brown Sugar Spreadable butter.
Thank you to all who attended!
Central Meeting
2014 CYL REGISTRATION NOW OPEN
The Laughing Stock—lol !
Each year, Gay Lea not only sponsors a week of camp, we also send counsellors
to mentor the kids and facilitate the program. The camp is held at the Lake St.
A lady from the city and her travGeorge Field Centre in Richmond Hill, Ontario.
eling companion were riding the
The camp offers week-long programs to students 14-18. This year, the programs
train through Vermont when she
run on the following dates:
noticed some cows. "What a cute
For more information, please go to:
bunch of cows!" she remarked.
www.ontario.coop/cyl.
"Not a bunch, herd", her friend
To register your student, please contact:
replied. "Heard of what?" "Herd of cows." "Of
Anna Causi at [email protected]
course I've heard of cows." "No, a cow herd."
Junior: 1st time 14-15 year olds
"What do I care what a cow heard. I have no seJUNIOR A: July 5 - 12
crets to keep from a cow!"
JUNIOR B: July 12 19
Intermediate: Junior grads or 1st time 16-17 year olds
INTERMEDIATE A: July 19 - 26
INTERMEDIATE B: July 26 – August 2
Senior: Intermediate grads or 1st time 17-18 year olds
SENIOR A: August 2 - 9
SENIOR B: August 9 - 16
source: http://www.jokes4us.com/
animaljokes/cowjokes.html
11
Save the Date!
GLF Member’s Day @
Canada’s
Wonderland
June 21, 2014
Classifieds
Reminder:
Please remember to use the new order
form for your next member product
order! Ordering instructions and the
new order form are enclosed in this
edition of the Gazette.
issue
he next or
t
k
c
e
h
C
f
azette
of the G ctor’s
e
the Dir
ards
ship aw
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Sc olar n details!
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applica
Member Relations
www.gayleafoodsmembers.com
Gay Lea foods neither represents, nor endorses the accuracy or reliability of any
advertisements in this publication. We strongly urge you to do your own due diligence
before responding to any offers.
Ove Hansen
Director of Member Relations &
Corporate Secretary
45 Sparberry Street, R.R. #2
Mount Forest, ON N0G 2L0
Office:
(519) 323-9613
Fax:
(519) 323-1955
[email protected]
The Classifieds deadline for the next issue is June 13, 2014
SERVICES:
FOR SALE:
Sandra Alton
Bruce Square Baling. For your large square baling —3 ft x 3 ft and 3 Small square straw bales, conventional combined, large or
ft x 4 ft contact Jim Batte (519) 392-8282 or Gary Whytock (519) 392 small orders. $3 / bale. Mitchell area. 519-229-8235
-8158
5 wheel 3pt. Hitch BEFCO rake. Like new.
We at Evergreen Hill Farm offer a horse drawn funeral hearse pulled Rotary Wheat Straw-big square bales - 3’ x 4’ x 7’ - stored
by two beautiful Belgian draft horses. A nice tribute to the farmer who inside. Delivery available. Call (519) 636-1834
grew up walking behind horses. Call Scott at (519) 426-2155 or email
New Suspended Tie Stalls, headrail from 38” to 50” high, four
[email protected].
models to choose from. Also, full line of livestock confinement equipLooking for a website to promote your
ment plus ventilation. Call (519) 925-4317.
Farm?
We know graphics; Visit our website at Digital- Hay and Forage Supplies. Bale wrap, Net wrap, Poly Baler twine,
FarmDesign.com, or call Heather at 519-630-1993. Ask us Bunker covers, Forage inoculants, Hay preservative and Grass seeds.
about our Express pricing today!
Serving all of Western Ontario. Riacrest Agri-Products.
Call (519) 533-8947 or email: [email protected].
WATER: Specialized in non-electric water softeners / iron filters / UV
disinfection / sulphur removal, etc. Your Kinetico rep is Tom We sell vinyl fences for farms and residences, and around pools and
Diemand (519) 577-0187.
backyards. Also available are vinyl decks, porch railing (3 styles) and
posts in Colonial Style. Bobmur Fence Co., Robert and Muriel HawSteen Cheq Time Temperature Recorders.
thorne, RR #1, Listowel (519) 291-1968.
Buy, Sell, Install & Repair
Call Jim Steenbergen (519) 343-3467
Truck cap 6’ x 8’ - $100 / 4 fold hard top truck cover - fits Chev or GMC /
6’-6” box - $100 / white pine, spruce and cedar trees 4’ - 20’ high all
Haugholm Books, Classic Tractor, Car & Gas Engine Books. Decal
healthy.
sets for older tractors & gas engines. Please contact Allan Haugh,
Call Bob at (519) 364-6930 or cell: (519) 901-0787
RR #1, Brucefield, ON N0M 1J0 (519) 522-0248
Registered Black Morgan at stud, horse boarding, new facilities with 40 2nd cut alfalfa hay (4x5 round bales) and sweet corn silage for sale,
also available Robot Ready Cows. Call 519-808-9628
acres of trail rides. Robmarann Farm—Cathy & Bob McNeil
RR #3, Grey Road 28, Hanover, ON N4N 3B9
Westfield Grain Auger, W70-46 for sale.
Phone: (519) 364-6930 Fax: (519) 364-0889
For more information please call 519-523-4494 or 519-523-9330
Do you want to live your life to the fullest on all levels: body, mind and
Gehl CB600 Forage Harvester with 2 row TR3038 corn head, and 6ft
spirit? I provide the following services: Life Activation, Energetic
Balancing, Full Spirit Activation and Emotional Cord Cutting. For more pickup. Also, a 2 row Gehl TR680 30 inch corn head.
Call 519-644-1065 at Belmont
information call Dennis Dietz at (519) 327-8522.
Milking parlour: Dble 5 herringbone, Westfalia/Surge. Auto take off
units with eclipse claws. Also with DHI samplers, vertical wash sink,
vac pump & extras. Call Paul 519-273-6397 or email:
[email protected]
Add some humour to your next event.
Contact Paul Mussell Farmer/Comedian. (613) 826-2959
Notice: Stephanie Little
It is with regret we announce the resignation of Stephanie Little
from her role as Administrative Coordinator within Member
Relations at Gay Lea Foods. Stephanie has been an integral
part of the Member Relations team over the past two years, and
will be missed by many of her colleagues, especially those who
work in the Guelph office.
Gay Lea Foods would like to thank Stephanie for her many
contributions to the Member Relations department over the past
.
two years, and we wish her all the best in her future endeavours.
NH 790 Forage-Harvester with metal-alert III, hydraulic tongue, quick
hitch and horning cropprocessor in new condition. 824 Hay head and
790W hay head. Case IH 600 forage blower. 5 Delaval Milkmaster
auto-takeoff milkers $900 each.
Call Gerry 519-887-6875 or 519-525-9312
1959 John Deere 730 diesel, narrow front - $7,900
1969 John Deere 3020, gas, side controls, narrow front - $10,500
Call Hank (226) 929-2529
Supervisor, Member Relations
7647 Wellington County Rd. 10
R.R.# 1, Moorefield ON N0G 2K0
Office:
(519) 638-7721
Toll Free: (877) 638-7728
Fax:
(519) 638-7720
Toll Free Fax: (877) 638-7720
[email protected]
Pam Emmott
Member Services Rep
South Western & Central Ontario
Currently on maternity leave
Returning January 2015
Wendy Hasson
Member Services Rep
South Western & Central Ontario
351355 17th Line
East Garafraxa (Orangeville), ON
L9W 7E1
Office:
(519) 940-5813
Toll Free:
(877) 940-5813
Fax:
(519) 940-5815
Toll Free Fax: (877) 940-5815
[email protected]
Shannon KavanaghSéguin
Member Services Rep
Eastern & Northern Ontario
3262 Rollin Rd
St-Pascal-Baylon, ON K0A 3N0
Office:
(613) 618-9039
Toll Free:
(855) 845-9039
Fax:
(613) 691-1137
Toll Free Fax: (866) 571-1137
[email protected]
Deanne Reilly
Administrative Assistant
Member Relations
21 Speedvale Avenue West
Guelph, ON N1H 1J5
Office:
(519) 822-5530 x 6268
Fax:
(519) 821-2668
[email protected]
GAY LEA FOODS RETAIL OUTLETS
Teeswater-Gay Lea Farm Fresh Country Store
21 Clinton Street, Teeswater, ON
Tel: 519-392-6864
[email protected]
12
Hours: Mon - Fri 9 am - 5:30pm,
Sat 9 am - 5 pm
Ivanhoe Cheese Factory
11301 Hwy 62 N, Madoc, ON
Tel: 613-473-4269
[email protected]
Hours: Mon - Sun 9 am - 5:30pm
Summer: open until 8pm on Fridays
Salerno Retail Outlet
20 Morley Street, Hamilton, ON
Tel: 905-544-6281
[email protected]
Hours: Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm Sat
8am - 4pm
The Gazette Contact: Deanne Reilly
Gos and Gris Outlet
380 Highway # 20 East, Stoney Creek, ON
Tel: 905-692-5433
[email protected]
Hours: Mon - Fri 8am - 4:30pm, Sat 8am - 1pm,
Sun 8am - 12pm