From the Publisher's Desk

Happy 2012, and yes I do honestly believe it will be a good year. Optimism is up and producers are looking toward a future once again.

Although I, myself was not in Banff all the people I talked with including Brenda my writer who attends said there was a positive vibe throughout the seminar. The organizers where pleased with the 660 delegates in attendance. The newly renovated Kinnear Centre was a welcomed improvement. Check out the stories in this edition, a brief glimpse of some of the sessions that took place.

As I am sure by now all of you have heard the World Trade Organization (WTO) has given the United States two more months – to March 23 – to appeal its ruling against Country-of-Origin Labeling (COOL) legislation and regulations. I am hopeful I will be able to report positive results in the April-May issue.

Alberta Pork Congress will be here next month, be sure to stop by my booth and say hi to Arlene, Brenda and myself. This year the Alberta Pork Congress is adding a few new additions, the Education Showcase and the Bruce Winkler Memorial Silent Auction (BWMSA). Also new this year is the Swine & Cheese, which will be held on the trade show floor from 6 - 8 p.m. on Tuesday March 27th.

I am excited the BWMSA will take place during both the Swine & Cheese and then again on Wednesday during the trade show from 9 - 4:30 p.m. Many of the items will then be taken over to the Harvest Centre for bidding during the evening banquet.

I am excited to say that members of Bruce's family will be in attendance to see the presentation to the Alberta Cancer Foundation in Bruce's memory. Please get involved in this most worthwhile cause by donating items and of course don't forget your check book to bid on items too. Don't pass up the BBQ on Thursday. Call Kate or Ahn in the office to get your tickets today.

I also want to thank all the producers in Brandon who stopped by to say hi. Prairie Hog Country will continue to participate in the trade shows to show support of both the producers and industry.
As always I am only a phone call or email away. Prairie Hog Country, Box 5536, Leduc, Alberta T9E 2A1, 780.986.0962, fax 780.980.9640 or email: hogcountry@shaw.ca
Talk with you in April.