VIDALIA, GA - The Vidalia^® Onion Committee (VOC) recently honored several in its community at the 2021 Awards Banquet. At the event, long-time Director of Markets for the Georgia Department of Agriculture Bob Meyer was inducted into the Vidalia Onion Hall of Fame. Additionally, the association named McLain Farms as the 2021 “Grower of the Year.”

“It is very humbling and surprising that I am here receiving this award today. I have seen from the inside out what you all have done with this industry, and I don’t know if you realize, but you have one of the most unique products in the world,” Meyer commented on the honor. “I don’t think there is another state or Department of Agriculture in the country that enforces trademark laws and protects its product like the state of Georgia does your product.”

According to the release, Bob Meyer was presented with this honor for his significant and positive impact on the Vidalia onion industry.

Also at the event, McLain Farms received Grower of the Year for 2021.

This isn’t McLain Farms’ first time at the rodeo. The farm received this award in 2014 and 2018, and the grower is very proud to be part of ensuring the future of this specialized industry for the next generation.

“We couldn’t do this without each one on this team. From seeds to shipping, everyone plays a vital part of this operation, and I feel like we have the best team out there! Blessed is an understatement,” commented Rusty McLain, expressing his gratitude to his shed manager, Chris, along with all supervisors and staff. Lastly, he thanked his wife, Jess McLain, for her dedication to him and this farm.

Both brothers Brett and Rusty McLain were extremely humbled about receiving the award for 2021 Grower of the Year.

Brett McLain expressed his thanks to everyone involved and stated how it was truly an honor, giving special recognition to his wife, Kim McLain, who’s been serving this farm and family for over 30 years. He also shared the importance of his farm managers, Casey and Lee, who work tirelessly day in and day out.

“Our congratulations to McLain Farms and Bob Meyer on being selected to receive our industry’s top honors,” said Bob Stafford, Manager of the Vidalia Onion Committee. “We enjoyed one of our strongest seasons in 2021, and we are looking forward to a good harvest this year.”

Click here to watch Bob Meyer and here for McLain Farms be honored and interviewed by RFDTV.

Congratulations all around for their significant contributions to our industry!

Vidalia^® Onion Committee