Latest news with #ScottByrne
Hamilton Spectator
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Hamilton Spectator
Veteran bullfighter embraces new role as clown
AUSTIN — Scott Byrne slaps a barrel. He points inside, where cushions swell from every direction. The rodeo clown, who used to be a bullfighter, says it's an escape mechanism. Reading 'wrangler' on the outside, the barrel exists to be smashed by raging bulls. When the animal bucks off a rider during a rodeo, it may turn around and run for a second shot. That's where the barrel comes in and gives the riders an escape. 'They might run behind it,' Byrne told the Sun. The only problem is that the bull shifts its attention to the barrel — and bullfighters are waiting inside, hoping the cushions work well enough. The 53-year-old is the rodeo clown for the Manitoba Threshermen's Reunion and Stampede in Austin this year. He is one of thousands who return to the event every year and keep the culture alive and kicking. When asked why he makes the effort, like driving out, bringing his equipment and putting on an act for the crowd, Byrne answered that it covers a few bases. After a long career at rodeos, the most important thing is he has some giving back to do. 'It's all about friends,' Byrne said. 'Being able to travel and make some money. And pass it down the line.' The Brandon-area resident spent 23 years as a bullfighter. The career invited 'a lot of' broken ribs, and some hooves on his face, and when asked how often he'd been to the hospital, he responded, 'Some years you don't go at all.' Now he doesn't want to put his body on the line like he used to. He pivoted into clowning as a way to stay involved. The new role for him is keeping things light, and entertaining the crowd during a lull in the show, he said. And while it might not be life or death, it's no less important to the rodeo veteran. 'I still take it seriously, 'cause people come here to have fun,' said Byrne. 'We want them to have fun and get their money's worth.' In his new task, he said there's some similarities to bullfighting. Standing in the dirt 20 minutes before his first act on Thursday evening, he said he still gets the same reaction as when he was staring at a raging bull. 'The rush is there the same,' said Byrne. 'Just before I get into the arena, my heart gets beating. Same as fighting bulls … It's the same kind of natural high, I would say.' When asked about the differences, he said clowning is more a mental act — being aware when there's a lull, and finding something to amuse the crowd. A mental challenge. While everyone around him has buttoned, long-sleeve shirts tucked into jeans, Byrne's face is covered in white makeup, with blue lines straight up and sideways from his eyes. He's wearing a red and white striped shirt and comfortable shorts. A smile. While he transitions out of bullfighting, he trains the next generation to keep rodeos safe. Two men that acted as the rodeo's bullfighters this year were graduates of an annual three-day class that Byrne teaches — and they were put to the test on opening night. A few injuries piled up at the tail end of the rodeo, as multiple ambulances responded when riders were injured by bulls. Elliot Sims, the Manitoba Agricultural Museum's executive director, said the contestants left the grounds in stable condition. Sims noted that rodeo is a high-risk competition and he thanked the paramedics and bullfighters that helped de-escalate the danger. 'We're really appreciative of all the efforts that the bullfighters made last night,' he said Friday. 'Incidents like this are exactly why rodeos have bullfighters. They're there to help keep the contestants safe and make sure that the animals are safe by reducing that conflict after a ride is done.' The opening night of the rodeo saw above-average attendance, with about 1,700 people, Sims said. The event raises funds for the Manitoba Agricultural Museum, contributing to the preservation of culture and history in this part of the province. 'It's really important for us and agriculture in general.' Sims said it all comes down to the people. More than 600 volunteers are involved running the daily events from Thursday to Sunday. With fewer people farming, he said, it's more important now that people continue to contribute to the culture and pass skills on. Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page .
Winnipeg Free Press
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Winnipeg Free Press
Former bullfighter clowns around at Threshermen's reunion
AUSTIN — Scott Byrne slaps a barrel and points to the cushions crammed inside. The rodeo clown, who used to be a bullfighter, says it's an escape mechanism. Reading 'wrangler' on the outside, the barrel exists to be smashed by raging bulls. When the animal bucks off a rider during a rodeo, it may turn around and run for a second shot. That's where the barrel comes in and gives the rider an escape. 'They might run behind it,' Byrne said. Scott Byrne poses beside his rodeo barrel, which acts as a punching bag for raging bulls. The 53-year-old is serving as the rodeo clown at the 69th annual Manitoba Threshermen's Reunion and Stampede. Byrne pivoted into clowning as a way to stay involved after retiring from a career of 23 years of bullfighting. (Connor McDowell / The Brandon Sun) The only problem is that the bull shifts its attention to the barrel — and bullfighters are waiting inside, hoping the cushions work well enough. The 53-year-old is the rodeo clown for the Manitoba Threshermen's Reunion and Stampede in Austin this year. He is one of thousands who return to the event every year and keep the culture alive and kicking. When asked why he makes the effort — driving out, bringing his equipment and putting on an act for the crowd — Byrne answered that it covers a few bases. After a long career at rodeos, the most important thing is he has some giving back to do. 'It's all about friends,' Byrne said. 'Being able to travel and make some money and pass it down the line.' The Brandon-area resident spent 23 years as a bullfighter. The career invited 'a lot of' broken ribs, and some hooves on his face, and when asked how often he'd been to the hospital, he responded, 'Some years you don't go at all.' Now he doesn't want to put his body on the line like he used to. He pivoted into clowning as a way to stay involved. The new role for him is keeping things light, and entertaining the crowd during a lull in the show, he said. And while it might not be life or death, it's no less important to the rodeo veteran. 'I still take it seriously, 'cause people come here to have fun,' said Byrne. 'We want them to have fun and get their money's worth.' His new task has some similarities to bullfighting. Standing in the dirt 20 minutes before his first act on Thursday evening, he said he still gets the same reaction as when he was staring at a raging bull. 'The rush is there the same,' said Byrne. 'Just before I get into the arena, my heart gets beating. Same as fighting bulls… It's the same kind of natural high, I would say.' When asked about the differences, he said clowning is more a mental act — being aware when there's a lull, and finding something to amuse the crowd. Rodeo clown Scott Byrne entertains spectators at the Manitoba Threshermen's Reunion & Stampede rodeo at Austin on Thursday evening. (Tim Smith / The Brandon Sun) While he transitions out of bullfighting, he trains the next generation to keep rodeos safe. Two men that acted as the rodeo's bullfighters this year were graduates of an annual three-day class that Byrne teaches — and they were put to the test on opening night. A few injuries piled up at the tail end of the rodeo, as multiple ambulances responded when riders were injured by bulls. Elliot Sims, the Manitoba Agricultural Museum's executive director, said the contestants left the grounds in stable condition. Sims noted that rodeo is a high-risk competition and he thanked the paramedics and bullfighters who helped de-escalate the danger. Tuesdays A weekly look at politics close to home and around the world. 'We're really appreciative of all the efforts that the bullfighters made last night,' he said. 'Incidents like this are exactly why rodeos have bullfighters. They're there to help keep the contestants safe and make sure that the animals are safe by reducing that conflict after a ride is done.' The opening night of the rodeo recorded above-average attendance, with about 1,700 people, Sims said. The event raises funds for the Manitoba Agricultural Museum, which contributes to the preservation of culture and history in this part of the province. 'It's really important for us and agriculture in general.' More than 600 volunteers help run the daily events; the event lasts till Sunday. — Brandon Sun
Hamilton Spectator
08-07-2025
- Business
- Hamilton Spectator
Sonoco Achieves Prestigious Pet Sustainability Coalition (PSC) Accreditation
HARTSVILLE, S.C., July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sonoco Products Company (NYSE: SON), a global leader in value-added sustainable packaging, today announced it has earned accreditation with the Pet Sustainability Coalition (PSC). Sonoco joined PSC in 2024 to align its packaging innovations with PSC's mission of advancing sustainable business practices across the pet industry. PSC accreditation is awarded to companies demonstrating tangible progress in environmental stewardship, social responsibility and transparent reporting. 'As a packaging provider with more than a century of experience, we see the pet sector as a powerful opportunity to apply our sustainability expertise where it matters most—to people, pets and the planet,' said Scott Byrne, Sonoco's Vice President of Global Sustainability. 'This recognition validates the work we're doing to offer scalable, circular solutions that deliver on both performance and environmental responsibility.' Sonoco's portfolio reflects this commitment with options that balance quality, freshness and recyclability. Its two- and three-piece steel cans offer durability, moisture protection and full recyclability. Meanwhile, its rigid paper containers feature up to 90% recycled fiber, supporting extended shelf life while reducing environmental impact. An example of this is the launch of German pet snack start-up DoggyLove treats in Sonoco's GREENCAN® container —made with 92–98% fiber, enhanced print capabilities and strong curbside recyclability. The brand called it 'a high-quality, sustainable solution that reflects the values of our company.' 'Every step toward becoming a more sustainable packaging solutions provider must be informed by a clear vision,' said Sonoco President and CEO Howard Coker. 'Our people are the driving force behind these initiatives and product innovations.' Sonoco's accreditation goes beyond packaging. Through the Sonoco Foundation (now known as Sonoco in Action), the Company has partnered with the Darlington County Humane Society to reshape the trajectory of animal welfare and education in Hartsville, South Carolina, where the Company is based. Learn more about Sonoco packaging and the PSC partnership at Sonoco's Insights . About Sonoco Founded in 1899, Sonoco (NYSE: SON) is a global leader in value-added, sustainable metal and fiber consumer and industrial packaging. The Company is now a multi-billion-dollar enterprise with approximately 23,400 employees working in 285 operations in 40 countries, serving some of the world's best-known brands. Guided by our purpose of Better Packaging. Better Life. ,® we strive to foster a culture of innovation, collaboration and excellence to provide solutions that better serve all our stakeholders and support a more sustainable future. Sonoco was proudly named one of America's Most Trustworthy and Responsible Companies by Newsweek in 2025. For more information on the Company, visit our website at . About the Pet Sustainability Coalition (PSC) The Pet Sustainability Coalition (PSC) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to accelerating environmental and social sustainability in the pet industry. By providing tools, resources, and support, PSC helps member companies implement sustainable practices and achieve meaningful impact.
Yahoo
08-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Sonoco Releases 2024 Corporate Sustainability Report
Showcasing Sustainability Impact of Eviosys Transformation and Global Progress HARTSVILLE, S.C., May 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Sonoco Products Company (NYSE: SON), a global leader in value-added sustainable packaging, today released its 2024 Corporate Sustainability Report, marking its transformation into a more sustainable packaging company following the acquisition of Eviosys, Europe's leading metal packaging manufacturer. The union significantly enhances Sonoco's sustainability footprint, global reach and circular packaging portfolio with an additional 6,300 new employees and 45 facilities across Europe, the Middle East and Africa. The Company is now a global leader in metal and fiber packaging, serving some of the best-known consumer and industrial brands, yielding measurable results toward sustainable solutions that achieve our purpose of Better Packaging. Better Life. ® Renewable energy and energy efficiency investments have helped Sonoco advance towards its Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction targets of 25% by 2030 from the 2020 baseline. They include solar installations in Hartsville, S.C., Texas, and Italy; high-efficiency turbo blowers in Stainland, U.K. and Subang, Indonesia; and a new biogas boiler in Subang. In total, 27 sustainability projects were put in place 2024, including the development of Sonoco's first-ever Virtual Purchase Power Agreement with ENGIE North America for 140 MW of wind energy capacity, scheduled to be operational by the end of 2025. These initiatives have helped reduce energy use by 9.6%, exceeding its original 8% goal for 2030. In addition, increased use of intermodal transport in North America reduced CO₂ emissions by approximately 2,400 metric tons annually. The integration of Eviosys, now called Sonoco Metal Packaging EMEA, has further accelerated Sonoco's sustainability goals. In 2024, Eviosys achieved a 26.3% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions from its 2020 baseline and earned an EcoVadis Platinum rating for the second year in a row, receiving a perfect score for environmental performance. Eviosys also installed five energy-efficient oxidizers at key sites, expected to reduce natural gas usage by 60% while eliminating solvent emissions. 'We're proud of the measurable progress made across the organization with the opportunity to expand impact with the addition of Eviosys,' said Scott Byrne, Sonoco Vice President of Global Sustainability. 'Together, we're building a truly global platform for circular innovation, climate action and sustainable growth.' Sonoco's packaging portfolio continues to reflect a commitment to recyclability, consumer convenience and environmental stewardship. Innovations include Sonoco's Rigid Paper Container and lightweight, two-piece steel aerosols developed for compressed-air dusters — both advance circularity through smart, scalable solutions, alongside Eviosys' award-winning Ecopeel™, an easy-open food can that uses less material and cuts carbon emissions by 20%, and Horizon™, a lightweight overcap that enhances recyclability. Both Ecopeel and Horizon have been honored at the 2024 Oscar de l'Emballage Awards for excellence in sustainable packaging. 'Our Better Packaging. Better Life.® purpose continues to guide everything we do,' said Howard Coker, Sonoco President and CEO. 'Our teams are innovating, investing and collaborating across the globe to build a more sustainable future for our customers, communities and our planet.' For more on the frameworks and guidelines supporting Sonoco's economic, environmental, social and governance standards, download the 2024 Corporate Sustainability Report: Reports | Sonoco Products Company. About Sonoco Founded in 1899, Sonoco (NYSE: SON) is a global leader in value-added, sustainable metal and fiber consumer and industrial packaging. The Company is now a multi-billion-dollar enterprise with approximately 23,400 employees working in 285 operations in 40 countries, serving some of the world's best-known brands. Guided by our purpose of Better Packaging. Better Life.,® we strive to foster a culture of innovation, collaboration and excellence to provide solutions that better serve all our stakeholders and support a more sustainable future. Sonoco was proudly named one of America's Most Trustworthy and Responsible Companies by Newsweek in 2025. For more information on the Company, visit our website at Contact: Roger
Yahoo
04-02-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Sonoco's EnviroCan pre-qualifies for How2Recycle labelling
Sonoco's EnviroCan Metal Bottom rigid paper container has been pre-qualified to carry the How2Recycle 'Check Locally' label. The company claims that EnviroCan paper container body is made of 100% recycled fiber, with 90% derived from post-consumer resources, balancing responsible sourcing with safety. The metal bottom end is crafted from recycled steel. The How2Recycle label provides consumers with clear recycling instructions and showcases Sonoco's efforts in developing eco-friendly packaging for global customers. A Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) commissioned by the company reveals that recycling a paper container with a steel bottom end can reduce global warming potential by 23.5% compared to landfilling steel. This is primarily due to the reduction in mining for new iron ore. Steel is not only the world's most recycled material, but also a significant component in reducing environmental impact. How2Recycle enables companies to convey the recyclability of their packaging precisely. The system was designed to offer transparent information to consumers in the US and Canada. Sonoco Global Sustainability vice-president Scott Byrne said: 'With the How2Recycle pre-qualification, the EnviroCan solution meets customers' performance expectations while providing quantifiable sustainable improvements. 'It's a smart, reliable choice for brand owners to meet their sustainability goals and help drive the circular economy forward.' Sonoco notes that the EnviroCan Metal Bottom is available in various sizes. GreenBlue is the parent company of How2Recycle, their executive director, Paul Nowak, said: 'With this effort, Sonoco is advancing sustainable packaging by not only improving the recyclability of their packaging but also ensuring that its product's disposal instructions are easily understood by consumers.' In January 2025, Sonoco unveiled its plans to open its first global capability centre in Hyderabad, India. "Sonoco's EnviroCan pre-qualifies for How2Recycle labelling" was originally created and published by Packaging Gateway, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Sign in to access your portfolio
