Agricultural society appoints new president

DRAYTON – John Foster was appointed president of the Drayton Mapleton Agricultural Society during the virtual annual general meeting on Nov. 27.

A lifelong resident of Mapleton, Foster was raised on a family dairy farm, and brings a passion for agriculture and community engagement to the role.

Quick to pick up the reins, Foster asked society directors and members to brainstorm some new ideas for 2021.

“The one advantage that we have this year over last year is that we know things will be uncertain; last year we were blissfully expecting a typical year of ag society activities,” said Foster.

“This institution has been around since 1856, serving the community, and showcasing the very best that agriculture has to offer in our area.  Despite the present challenges that we are all facing, our society is working hard to come up with new opportunities,” he added.

2020 saw the cancellation of the 164th annual Drayton Fair, and the introduction of an online fair that attracted 25 competitors and 50 entries.

New ideas for 2021 include monthly virtual and live events, new competitions, displays, tours, and more.

Outgoing president John Klaassen presented the Millennium Service Award to Erica Zantinge and James Porteous.

The Long Time Service Award went to Jim and Marion Walker, and the Ontario Association of Agricultural Societies’ Meritorious Service Award was presented posthumously to John Zantinge.

Foster recognized the efforts of Klaassen who did a “great job leading the ag society in a very difficult year”, and thanked everyone for their confidence, while promising to do his best to fulfill his new role.

- Submitted by Sue Hogenkamp