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What's the recipe for a successful food business? That's what 150 farmers, food artisans and business people gathered to discuss in February at a community seminar for food entrepreneurs. They discovered lessons learned from others, discussed important food trends and sampled tempting local food products during the event hosted at the John Di Poce South Georgian Bay Campus in Collingwood. "We believe that product development and business incubation across the counties of Grey, Simcoe and Bruce is imperative for economic growth — for generating wealth, employment and training opportunities, and attracting new businesses and residents," said President and CEO MaryLynn West-Moynes. Guest speakers included John Miller of Miller's Dairy, a Creemore-area dairy farm that processes and sells its own Jersey milk, and Ingo Huesing of Saugeen Country Dairy in Grey County, a biodynamic dairy farm processing its own milk into yogurt and kefir. Steven Epstein explained how he and his wife Kelly have nurtured their Dags and Willow Fine Cheese and Gourmet Shop in Collingwood into a thriving retail store. Gerbe Botden of Global Fruit Orchards, which produces the popular new Red Prince apple, spoke about applying innovative technology in the apple orchard business. Robert Ketchin explained some of the secrets behind the success of Georgian Hills Vineyards, a burgeoning new wine producer in the Blue Mountains. Julie Carter described how she used her background in event management to carry her husband's catering business, Men With Knives, to a new level of success that now includes more than 30 casual employees. The event was presented by Georgian in partnership with Foodland Ontario, Clearview Township, the Town of Collingwood, the City of Owen Sound, the Town of Wasaga Beach, economic development partners in Grey County and the County of Simcoe, and the South Georgian Bay Small Business Enterprise Centre. FOOD ENTREPRENEURS COOK UP SUCCESS John Miller (right) of Miller's Dairy in Creemore was a guest speaker at the community seminar for food entrepreneurs. His wife Marie, left, is a Georgian alumna (Early Childhood Education, 2004). LANCE CHILTON BROKER ANNE CHILTON SALES REPRESENTATIVE 705.739.0058 info@thechiltonteam.com Contact us today to buy or sell your home RE/MAX Chay Realty Inc. Brokerage, Independently Owned & Operated The Chilton Team is proud to be an Affinity Partner with Georgian College GEORGIANVIEW 2014 30