Looking up at at a number of flags on poles, with the Canadian flag in th centre.

Southern Alta. agronomist takes the world stage

Global Farmer Network features hundreds of agricultural specialists from 69 countries who work to amplify the farmer’s voice

It’s important for agricultural producers to be at the table when policy is decided, not only nationally but also internationally.

Close-up of a hand holding a pen writing the dollar amount on a cheque.

There is more to charitable donations than tax benefits

Charitable giving is one of the most meaningful ways to support growth and change in any community. Giving back is rewarding and can be more fulfilling than leaving behind an inheritance because you have a better chance of witnessing the effects of your generosity.



Close up of canola field with sky and clouds in the background

Curling club hosts big field-scale canola trials in Sask.

The Indian Head Curling Club has found a way to raise money for its operation and provide farmers, agricultural companies and retailers with important growing information. Earlier this month, it held its field-scale canola trial north of Sintaluta, Sask., with retailers, agricultural company representatives and growers getting a look at different varieties. It marks the […] Read more

Tyson McKenzie, right, and his father David look over the burned out ruins of their fourth generation farmhouse near Delisle, Sask.  |  William DeKay photo

Sask. community comes to the rescue

Young rancher loses fourth generation home to fire but vows to pick up the emotional pieces after outpouring of support

DELISLE, Sask. — The kindness of family, friends and strangers created a special Thanksgiving for Tyson McKenzie on Oct. 10. An outpouring of gifts and support, ranging from money and household items to the clothes on his back, show people’s generosity and concern during a crisis. Donations came after a Sept. 25 fire that destroyed […] Read more


Lance Cornock stands inside the new community hall in Demmit, Alta. He says the building, valued at $1 million more than it cost to build, is the culmination of private and public fundraising efforts and volunteer labour.  |  Jeremy Simes photos

Alberta community builds a legacy

DEMMITT, Alta. — The Demmitt community is breathing easier these days after years of tension, persistence and sweat. It’s been two years since they built the grandiose Demmitt Hall, an energy efficient, straw walled and timber-framed community centre in one of the Peace Region’s most secluded areas. It’s a project some believed would never get […] Read more

Bridie Lunde opened the Little Red Market Cafe in Mortlach, Sask. | Christalee Froese photo

The little restaurateurs that could

Vancouverites develop a reputation for offering an elegant dining experience in this small Saskatchewan town

Actress Bridie Lunde is on stage tonight. But she’s not starring in a theatre production, a musical or a local play. She’s playing hostess at her restaurant in Mortlach, Sask. As she delights the incoming audience with her words of welcome and lighthearted laughter, the smell from the kitchen foretells of a night of fancy […] Read more

Group offers support for new farmers

Young Agrarians | B.C. organization offers support and networking opportunities for upstart farm businesses

HARRISON HOT SPRINGS, B.C. — Making farming an attractive career path and connecting farmers with the resources they need to get started are the goals of the Young Agrarians. Sara Dent, the group’s co-ordinator and a former farm worker, helps organize potluck dinners, open farm days, work bees and demonstrations to gather those interested in […] Read more


Ervin Gross cuts Barry Mensch’s hair. Gross has been trimming sideburns, shaping moustaches and cutting hair since 1962. His shop in Watrous, Sask., is also his home, where he raised four children with his wife, Carol.  |  Karen Morrison photo

Taking a little off the top for 50 years

WATROUS, Sask. — A hair cut cost 75 cents when Gross’s Barber Shop opened in this central Saskatchewan town in 1962. Today, it costs $14. “The first day I opened I made $6.52 and I had a $96 a month mortgage. I didn’t think we were going to make it,” Ervin Gross said. This morning, […] Read more

Health concerns, age and reduced community responsibilities mean Barb and Bill Toews’ life should slow down this year.  |  Ed White photo

Couple serves the community

Taking a quieter road | Relationship blossomed from similar interests

KANE, Man. — It’s the quiet time of year on the Toews farm, which sits halfway between Winkler and Winnipeg. But both Barb and Bill have been cheerfully busy. Earlier on this day, Barb had been in Winnipeg as part of her work with the Provincial Council of Women of Manitoba, presenting to the provincial […] Read more