Madam Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Ron Helwer, who recently celebrated 50 years in business.
In 1968, Ron moved with his wife Vera and his growing family to Brandon. It was there that he started Shur-Gro Farm Services, which now includes Monroe Farm Supplier and partners with Double Diamond. Together they are the largest, longest-serving independent fertilizer and chemical dealer in western Canada.
Through innovation, grit, and high-quality service, Ron has repeatedly expanded the business. From Waskada to Oakville, the company services almost the entire southern half of Manitoba. In fact, one would be hard pressed to find a farmer who has not dealt with Shur-Gro or one of its partners.
I cannot say enough about Ron's commitment to farming, to his customers, and to his community. Ron is a stalwart of the business community, and for his lifetime dedication to the industry, he was inducted into the Manitoba Agricultural Hall of Fame.
I salute Ron for all that he has accomplished and I wish him and Shur-Gro all the best in the many years ahead.