Leslie
Ballantine has died. She was 60.
She
was the founding executive director of the Ontario Farm Animal
Council, which is now part of Ontario Farm & Food Care.
She
did that while doubling as communications manager for the Egg Farmers
of Ontario marketing board. In both roles, she reported to the late
Jim Johnstone who was chairman of the egg board and founding chairman
of the Ontario Farm Animal Council.
Ballantine
made sure members were kept fully informed about animal-rights and
animal-welfare organizations and warned that farmers needed to speak
up to counter their propaganda.
When
she stepped aside, Crystal Mackay took over at the council, expanding
its budgets, staff and activities, then helping to launch a national
organization for which she now works.
Ballantine
was also a hard-working member of the Eastern Ontario Farm Writers
Association and helped recruit women who work in agriculture
journalism and public relations. The organization’s leadership has
transitioned from almost all males to all females during her time.
Ballantine
was always frank, articulate and worked hard at everything she
tackled.
I will miss her.
