Published by Communications and Public Affairs (519) 824-4120, Ext. 56982 or 53338
News Release
September 13, 1999
Canada's biggest silent ag auction to benefit OAC
The Ontario Agricultural College at the University of Guelph will be the beneficiary of Canada's Biggest Silent Ag Auction Sept. 14-16 in Woodstock.
The auction is in recognition of OAC's 125th anniversary. Proceeds will support student financial assistance and recruitment efforts. Exhibitors at Canada's Outdoor Farm Show have generously donated products and services for the silent auction. Show attendees will be able to bid on items at the Silent Auction Tent during the three-day event, with top bidders to be announced at the end of each day.
"The target of the silent auction is to raise $125,000 for OAC to mark its 125 years," said Ginty Jocius, show president.
More than 130 exhibitors have donated items to be auctioned, from augers to power washers and computers to clothing. "The breadth of products and services donated means there is something for everyone to bid on, whether for work of leisure," said Don Blackburn, Silent Auction Committee chair. "The mix will ensure a lot of fun and competition in the bidding."
Rob McLaughlin, OAC dean, added Canada's Outdoor Farm Show has great relevance for the agricultural college. "Naturally, we feel comfortable celebrating our past. But we really want to contribute to the future and clearly that is what this Silent Ag Auction is about."
Most OAC students end up working in agri-business for the same exhibitors who attend the show, McLaughlin said. "It is nice to have exhibitors lining up to help us because, at the end of the day, it is going to benefit them too. There will be a greater number of well-qualified students who will eventually be their employees."
For information on the Silent Ag Auction, contact Sue Bennett, OAC dean's office, (519) 824-4120, Ext. 6832.
For media questions, contact Communications and Public Affairs, (519) 824-4120, Ext. 3338
