CARP – This year’s Carp Fair President of Agriculture Ryan Foley was recently named one of the Canadian Association of Fairs and Exhibitions (CAFE) Top 10 under 40.

CAFE is a charitable organization established in 1924 representing a broad spectrum of fairs from small community rural fairs to large urban exhibitions. In addition, the membership includes provincial associations that represent agricultural societies from across the nation, industry service providers and affiliate associations who have a direct interest and link with the Canadian fair industry.

Each year CAFE publishes a list honouring some of the young organizational talent making a difference in the industry.

“CAFE asked fairs and service members across Canada to share their up-and-coming stars in the industry,” CAFE staff released in a statement this week. “Those under the age of 40 who have made a significant contribution and who will likely continue to be involved and help shape the industry for the next several years.”

Foley, who was named the 157th Carp Fair co-president last February following the Carp Agricultural Society’s annual general meeting, was honoured by CAFE for his ability to bring new ideas and continue grow the fair’s audience.

“Ryan was able to bring some new ideas to the organization and was always available to bring equipment, a set of hands or an ear to listen to new ideas,” CAFE wrote in its explanation.

Foley, a life-long South March resident and farmer is a long-time society member and came on the board in 2009.

“I came to the fair my whole life,” Foley told West Carleton Online last February.

CAFE’s Top 10 Under 40 list was published in its most recent quarterly edition and is not available online yet.