Linda and Jim Gourlay, publishers of Saltscapes magazine, were among 14 Canadians to receive the Governor General's Award in Celebration of the Nation's Table during a recent ceremony at Rideau Hall.

On June 23, 2010, the Gourlays won a Leadership award for innovation in promoting Atlantic Canadian food and wine through both the magazine and the annual consumer show, Saltscapes East Coast Expo.

"Most times food awards are about the big names — the celebrity chefs and award-winning restaurants," says Don Oliver, a Nova Scotia senator and passionate food and wine enthusiast, who nominated the Gourlays for an award.

Proposed by His Excellency Jean-Daniel Lafond, husband to Governor General Michaëlle Jean, these awards "recognize and celebrate outstanding efforts in improving the quality, variety and sustainability of all elements and ingredients of our nation's table."

After four years of cross-Canada consultation with people working in all aspects of the Canadian food industry, six awards were created to honour people who have changed our connection to local food and wine, inspiring us to think differently about what we consume.

"We want to acknowledge everyone involved in the whole chain, from the fishmongers to the organic farmers, and the people doing research behind the scenes," says Senator Oliver.

"Linda and Jim have done a lot for the Atlantic region-they provide outstanding platforms to foster excitement in local products at home and nationally…

"They are innovators, catalysts and creative doers who have inspired Canadians and raised awareness of the intricate connection of farm to table."

In addition to leadership, five of the award categories recognize achievement in creativity and innovation; education and awareness; mentorship and inspiration; and stewardship and sustainability. The sixth category, youth, recognizes a young person with potential to inspire peers to become contributors to the nation's table.

The nomination and adjudication process is overseen by an advisory committee from across the country.

In accepting the award, Jim Gourlay acknowledged the significant contribution of Saltscapes founding food editor Marie Nightingale, a tireless local-food promoter from way back — who was elated to hear the remarks first-hand.

"Attending this event was the crowning glory to a long career," Marie says.