Ambassador Howard speaks at Lucknow Agricultural Society annual general meeting

BY SCOTT STEPHENSON

On Jan. 14, the Lucknow Agricultural Society (LAS) held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the Lucknow Community Centre.

 

Outgoing LAS President Cam Alton welcomed society members, esteemed guests and dignitaries to the yearly soirée and invited all to enjoy a memorable meal of roast beef with spicy horseradish and glazed chicken, accompanied by a medley of vegetables, mashed potatoes, gravy, salads and dinner rolls. Dessert, of course, was pies of all kinds. 

 

Following the fabulous food, Fall Fair Ambassador Graham Howard gave a short speech about the highlights of his reign so far, from his historic win at the 2024 Fall Fair to his chilly march down Campbell Street in the Santa Claus parade. “I just wanted to say ‘thank you’ to all of you for letting me represent our community and what it stands for,” Howard told the crowd. “It’s been a pleasure to do everything that I have done.” This summer, Howard is hoping to bring the title of Canadian National Exhibition Ambassador home to Lucknow.

 

Junior Ambassador Lyndon Gillespie has also been enjoying representing the LAS at events like the Ripley Fall Fair and the grand opening of King’s Pizza in downtown Lucknow. 

 

LAS Treasurer Jolande Oudshoorn also gave an informative presentation on the Junior Farmers of Ontario and the trip she took across Northern Ireland to learn about different farming techniques. 

 

After the AGM, the LAS deliberated as to who would best serve as its new president, deciding eventually that Emily Morrison of Morrison Berries is the right woman for the job. Alton is now the vice-president, and Jim Finnigan is staying on as secretary.