Luckett Vineyards Recognition

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Dartmouth South.

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : Speaker, I beg leave to make an introduction.

THE SPEAKER « » : Yes, please go ahead.

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : We are also joined somewhere today by Geena Luckett, proprietor of Luckett Vineyards; as well as Steve Ells, the president of Grape Growers Nova Scotia; and Karl Coutinho of the Wine Producers of Nova Scotia. I would ask that the members give them the warm welcome of the House. (Applause)

THE SPEAKER « » : The honourable member for Dartmouth South.

LUCKETT VINEYARDS: CONTRIB. TO ECON. - RECOG.

CLAUDIA CHENDER « » : I rise to recognize a cornerstone of Nova Scotia's wine and grape growing industries, Luckett Vineyards. In the year 2000, entrepreneur Pete Luckett bought 92 acres of land in the Gaspereau Valley. Everyone, of course, will know Pete Luckett from his segment on Live at 5 and from Pete's Frootique, where he introduced Nova Scotians to a world of vegetable and fruit produce, and signed off with his signature catchphrase "toodle-dee doo." Pete and his team, like so many wine growers in our province, worked to overcome the climate challenges and develop their wine-making processes, and in 2010 opened the winery's cellar doors. The winery continues to serve Nova Scotians and tourists alike. It's a beloved destination for anyone looking to take in the best our province has to offer in food, drink, and beauty.

I would also like to recognize Geena Luckett, who has taken over management of the winery, and is part of the next generation of wine growers in Nova Scotia.

I ask the whole House to join me in recognizing Luckett Vineyards and all who contribute to this vital sector of our economy.