Press release provided by Tara Reynolds, Marketing and Communications Specialist, EastGen

Guelph, Ontario (November 29, 2023) — EastGen hosted an event last week to celebrate the legacy of the late Dr. Tim Henshaw, raising more than $30,000 to be divided equally between 4-H Ontario, Farm & Food Care Ontario, and the Elmvale & District Food Bank.

A crowd of friends, family and former colleagues and customers gathered for the “Feeding the Human Spirit – Celebrating the Legacy of Dr. Tim Henshaw” event on November 21st at the Nottawasaga Inn, Alliston, Ont. In addition to the conclusion of the online fundraising auction, a highlight of the evening was the presentation of the inaugural Feeding the Human Spirit Leadership Award created to recognize a leader/mentor of agricultural youth who emulates the qualities of Dr. Henshaw.

The award was presented to John Drummond of Smiths Falls, Ont., who spent much of his agricultural career in Waterloo County. John’s spirit, volunteerism, and long-time support of youth in agriculture earned him the nickname “Mr. 4-H”.

During his acceptance of the award from EastGen President Amanda Jeffs, Drummond expressed his gratitude. “Thank you to the Henshaw family, EastGen, all of this evening’s volunteers, and above all, Dr. Tim Henshaw for your kindness, generosity and spirit. You’ll always be in our hearts.”

A skilled veterinarian, educator and communicator, Dr. Henshaw was highly respected for his integrity and widely known in the agricultural industry and beyond as a leader, mentor, and someone who inspired youth to challenge themselves. He was highly supportive of people throughout his community and recognized for his giving of self and generosity of spirit.

“The special evening was a reflection of the man himself – the friendship, laughter, generosity and positive spirit was very present in the room and online to honour Dr. Tim,” said Brian O’Connor, EastGen General Manager.

A combination of monetary donations and donated auction items provided the fundraising sum divided between the three charities chosen by Jane Henshaw, wife of Dr. Henshaw who passed away in April 2023. EastGen wishes to express thanks to all who supported the event, especially the auction bidders and purchasers and the following generous individuals, organizations, and companies:

• Simcoe County Holstein Club                                  • The Henshaw Family

• Gay Lea Foods Co-operative Ltd.                             • The Ormiston Family

• Burgundy Legacy Foundation                                  • Stephanie Lee Photography

• Cowan Insurance Group                                          • Green Tractors

• Dr. Rick Knill, Derrick & Mark Knill                          • Lord Elgin Hotel

• Guernsey Canada                                                     • Quality Seeds

• Holstein Canada                                                       • Semex

• Holstein Ontario                                                      • EastGen Board of Directors

• Lactanet

• Langelier Insurance

• Miller Thomson

• RCON-NDT

• Scotiabank

• Simcoe County Milk Committee

• Upper Grand Veterinary Services

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For further information or to receive photos for reproduction contact Tara Reynolds, EastGen Marketing & Communications Specialist:  tara.reynolds@eastgen.ca or call/text 226-332-2264.

About

EastGen offers a complete line-up of dairy, beef, and goat genetics as well as advanced reproductive solutions to more than 8,500 farmers in Ontario, New Brunswick, PEI, and Newfoundland & Labrador. At EastGen, we challenge ourselves to constantly advance the dairy industry and we are accountable to farmers first. To learn more about EastGen visit: www.eastgen.ca