Canadian Cowboy Country October/November 2024

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7H RANCH Raising Wild Bison

CANADA’S ONLY YEAR-ROUND RODEO ACADEMY

@cowboycountrymag @CowboyCntryMag @cowboycountrymagazine

CONTENTS OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2024 | VOLUME 28, NO.3

FEATURES

33

15 EVOLUTION OF RURAL TECH Inventions, apps and other cool farming and ranching technology

19 READING, WRITING,

ARITHMETIC & RODEO

Canada’s only year-round rodeo school taught by the Who’s Who of pro rodeo

22 BRINGING IN THE SHEAVES

The Reding’s keep the skills of the past alive farming with horses

26 TOMBSTONES & MEDALS

Veteran Kyle Scott brings memorials and medals to those who earned it

33 ARTIST PAIGE ALBRECHT

Handbags, jewelry and belts beyond belief

38 WHAT WORKS FOR US

Raising wild bison on the sprawling native range of Saskatchewan’s 7H Ranch

PHOTO COURTESY PAIGE LEATHER

DEPARTMENTS

ON THE COVER: PG 30 Brittney Chomistek showcasing Western fashions for Rodeo Finals and beyond.

Photo by Sullivan Photography

@cowboycountrymag cowboycountrymagazine.com

@CowboyCntryMag

5 6 7 12 13 14 30 36 43 46 47 48 50

MY POINT OF VIEW LETTERS IN THE CORRAL SPIRIT OF THE WEST RANCH RAMBLINGS WHEEL TO WHEEL COMMON THREADS TRAILBLAZERS WESTERN EVENTS ROAD TO THE CFR CLOWNIN’ AROUND COWBOY COOKING COWBOY POETRY

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Find out more at: cowboycountrymagazine.com or call Marie at 1.800.943.7336

October/November 2024 Vol. 28, No. 3

“World Champion” sponsor of Miss Rodeo Canada Proud member of the Canadian Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame Publisher Rob Tanner rob@cowboycountrymagazine.com Editor Terri Mason terri@cowboycountrymagazine.com Art Director Shannon Swanson shannon@cowboycountrymagazine.com Sales Manager Kristine Wickheim kristine@cowboycountrymagazine.com Subscription/Circulation Marie Tanner circ@cowboycountrymagazine.com Accounting/Administrator Marie Tanner admin@tanneryoung.com Columnists Brittney Chomistek, Tim Ellis, Niki Flundra, Jackie Rae Greening, Hugh McLennan, Billy Melville Contributors Baxter Black, Canadian Bison Ass’n, CrAsh Cooper, Rob Dinwoodie, Doug Nelson. Special thanks to Aaron Horton, 7H Ranch.

Tanner Young Publishing Group Box 13, 22106 South Cooking Lake Road Cooking Lake, AB T8E 1J1 Tel: 780-465-3362 | Toll Free: 1-800-943-7336 Website: cowboycountrymagazine.com E-mail: askus @cowboycountrymagazine.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS: Call Marie at 1-800-943-7336 Make all cheques payable to Tanner Young Marketing Ltd 1 Year: $29 incl. tax | 2 Years: $46 incl. tax | $Single Copy: $6.95 + tax Canadian Cowboy Country magazine is published six times per year

by Tanner Young Publishing Group PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40070720 ISSN 1701-1132 Please return undeliverable addresses to: Canadian Cowboy Country Magazine c/o Tanner Young Publishing Group Administration Office Box 13, 22106 South Cooking Lake Road Cooking Lake, AB T8E 1J1 FREELANCE POLICY Canadian Cowboy Country welcomes freelance contributions but will not be held responsible for unsolicited text or photographs.

Direct all freelance enquiries to: editor@cowboycountrymagazine.com PRIVACY POLICY At Tanner Young Publishing Group, we value your privacy. For our complete privacy policy go to tanneryoung.com/privacy.html or call us at 1-800-943-7336 Canadian Cowboy Country makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information it publishes, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions.

This magazine is a proud member of the Alberta Magazine Publishers Association, and Magazines Canada, abiding by the standards of the Canadian Society of Magazine Editors.

Visit albertamagazines.com

YOUR COMMUNITY YOUR STORIES

Discover the heart of Alberta Subscribe to one fine Alberta magazine and get a second one on us.

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“This project is funded [in part] by the Government of Canada.”

«Ce projet est financé [en partie] par le gouvernement du Canada.»

Canadian Cowboy Country October/November 2024

MY POINT OF VIEW

Grace

A

PHOTO BY DARCY DIETRICH

s a surprise, my bosses put an ad in the last issue, congratulating me on 20 years as Cowboy’s editor.

It was a lovely gesture.

I received many unexpected congratulations from folks, and I thank you all. A retired shooter even brought me to tears when he sent me the above photo from 2007—it was at the end of the West Block Roundup, and I wanted one last picture of me on this great horse. Little did I know that I would add Woody to my herd and later move 35 miles from where the photo was taken. You never know what the future holds.

For years, I was on the threshing crew at Reding’s farm, and I stooked my fair share, pitched a ton of bundles and took great pride in my percherons, Lefty and Pancho on the bundle rack. Here’s a great glimpse back and a good overview of what threshing is all about.

Every person who has ever lived in a mountain town was horrified at the wreck of Jasper National Park’s out-of-control wildfire. Our hearts went out to the people.

The story we bring on the dramatic rescue will restore your faith in humanity.

Our Remembrance article features veteran Kyle Scott, whose journey ensures no veteran is forgotten, missing medals are replaced, and all medals owed are received.

In the last issue, I mistakenly labelled Maxine Baird “late” and said she had been the timer of 29 Canadian Finals Rodeos. I was wrong on both counts. Maxine is perfectly fine, and she has (as of August 2024) timed 33 CFRs—an outstanding record that may never be broken.

Nothing is worse than a mistake, but a blunder in front of an international audience is even worse. Maxine was pure grace as I apologized. She knows that life is in the details, and it’s in the fullness of forgiveness that one finds a good life—here in Canadian Cowboy Country.

— Terri Mason, Editor

Canadian Cowboy Country magazine is not affiliated with any company that offers laminated plaques of your CCC article, discounts on anything, or clothing with our logo. These are scams. Click on their links at your peril.

cowboycountrymagazine.com

LETTERS

The famous Charlie Russell sketch, “Waiting for a Chinook”

MONTANA STOCKGROWERS

Specializing in the Equine Industry and the Western Lifestyle EQUINE • FARM • RANCH • LIVESTOCK RODEO EVENT HOST • RIDING ARENA BOARDING • RIDING LESSONS TRAINING

I am with the Montana Stockgrowers Association (MSGA), and a member recently shared with us the wonderful article "The Winter that Changed the West" with the Charles M. Russell “Waiting for a Chinook” artwork.

MSGA owns the “Waiting for a Chinook” artwork and thought it would be an interesting article to share with our members. Would it be possible for us to share the article, with credit to the Canadian Cowboy Country magazine and the authors, in MSGA's August digital newsletter?

Keni Reese, Director of Marketing & Communications Montana Stock Growers Association

CANADIAN COWBOY RESPONDS: Dear Keni, We would be pleased to share Tom Reardon’s two-part article, “The Winter That Changed the West” with the Montana Stock Growers Association.

I’m also sending Tom’s other two-part article, originally written by Harry Otterson, called “Cross-Border Round-Up,” which will also be of great interest to your members.

Thanks for letting us use the artwork to help bring this story to another generation.

Terri

SKY HOUND RANCH

Grigg Insurance Brokers (1947) 482150 Street Mayerthorpe, Alberta T0E 1N0

780.786.2347 | 1.888.66.GRIGG c.mckillop@grigginsurance.ca Colette McKillop

Your Equine Specialist 6

I would like to thank you so much for the opportunity to be featured in Canadian Cowboy Country. I had purposely not shown the story or told my family what pictures I sent to you. I was able to watch my wife read the article for the first time; she welled up in tears. You hit the perfect notes with the story, and I couldn't be happier with the way it came out.

Again, thank you. If you are ever in the Lac Ste Anne area, please do stop in and visit. It would be my honour to host you here.

Adam Kaine, Sky Hound Ranch, Cherhill, AB

BELL RANCH

Just got the magazine article. Looks great; thank you so much for thinking of us and putting us in the magazine.

Curt Martindale, Bell Ranch, Merritt, BC

Canadian Cowboy Country October/November 2024

IN THE CORRAL //// NEWS & HAPPENINGS ACROSS THE WEST ////

MISS RODEO CANADA Kaylee Shantz, Miss Rodeo Canada 2024

CANADIAN RODEO IS exceptional and getting stronger every year. It is diverse and dynamic, and I am loving my journey as rodeo’s #1 fan.

Each rodeo has been a wonderful experience, and it has been even more rich having the opportunity to travel to the United States to partake in their traditions as well.

As we are nearing the close of the season, I am so grateful to have been on the road just as our athletes have been all year. It makes the experience at the 50th Anniversary of the Canadian Finals Rodeo in Edmonton at Rogers Place so much sweeter, as I have been there for all the highs and lows for our athletes.

It has been an honour to represent 50 years of Canadian rodeo tradition and hard work. As we approach the end of the year, I am really looking forward to the SMS Pro Tour Finals, CFR 50, Maple Leaf Circuit Finals, and, of course, the National Finals Rodeo!

cowboycountrymagazine.com

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IN THE CORRAL

EMPTY SADDLES

CHIP OFF THE OL’ BLOCK Lindsay Sears on Mojo at Ponoka Stampede

Caroline, Alta 1931–2024

Lawrence Pengelly was a well-respected and well-liked horseman who loved a good visit.

He spent his life in the saddle, whether wrangling hunters, survey crews, raising their kids, helping other kids summon the courage to get on, picking up at rodeos, raising bucking horses, trailing cattle—he did it all.

As a stock contractor, he raised some good, solid stock and helped some of the greats get their start. Lawrence was featured as a Living Legend in the Aug/Sept 2023 issue.

Listen to

and I hadn’t made a competition run on him since January,” she said. After breeding season, she started lightly riding him.

“This weekend is just a huge sigh of relief that my horse was even able to compete,” she said. “But he’s like Martha (the stallion’s famous dam) in that he’s just so tough and gritty.

He could have given up, but he didn’t.”

Sears is a 7X CFR qualifier, 7X NFR qualifier, 2X World Barrel Racing Champion and 2X reserve world champion on Sugar Moon Express, better known as Martha.

Her 2016 home-raised and trained stallion won the Showdown and a pile of cash at the Ponoka Stampede. The victory is Sears’ third Ponoka triumph.

THE SPIRIT OF THE WEST “Radio Program” Ride through the Rangeland of the West every week

Celebrating over 30 YEARS

of Stories Great Western Music Horse Training Advice And much more

with Hugh McLennan

Hear it on your favourite radio station or on demand at Hugh-McLennan.com Check out the new Spirit of the West Facebook page too!

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Canadian Cowboy Country October/November 2024

PHOTO CREDIT: COVYMOORE.COM/COVY MOORE, COURTESY PONOKA STAMPEDE

Charles "Lawrence" Pengelly

COWBOY CHRISTMAS, THE huge run of rodeos during the Canada Day— Independence Day stretch, had some memorable moments.

Two of the most stunning occurred at the 2024 Ponoka Stampede. One was the stupendous trip of C5 Rodeo’s F13 Virgil when he flung the much-vaunted bareback rider Rocker Steiner into the arena dirt, and the second was the stunning performance by two-time World Champion barrel racer Lindsay Sears and her outstanding stallion, SME One Of A Kind, barn name Mojo.

“I’m kind of speechless,” said the Nanton cowgirl who now makes her home in Texas. “I went into Ponoka with zero expectations. My horse was just coming back from a major injury,

IN THE CORRAL

JOHN WARE UNCOVERED ARCHAEOLOGISTS ARE SIFTING the former homestead of John Ware, a famous cattleman and horse trainer whose reputation as a good cowboy and a good man has stood the test of time.

His early homestead site near Millarville is being unearthed to learn more about the man and his early life. Researchers know that his house was moved off the original site, and since then, the area has remained as pasture, so it is relatively undisturbed.

John earned his reputation one friend at a time, and when he died, it was reportedly the largest funeral Calgary had known. The late rancher is buried in Union Cemetery, overlooking the Stampede Grounds.

John was born into slavery circa 1845–50 in the U.S. and came north on a cattle drive after the Civil War. He died Sept 11, 1905, when his horse tripped and fell on him on his ranch near Brooks, AB. Artifacts recovered from his former homesite will eventually go to the Royal Alberta Museum in Edmonton.

Since they began excavating the property, they’ve unearthed a hand-forged horseshoe, pre-1910 square nails and cow bone.

Ware homesteaded there in the late 1880s to 1902, when Ware moved his family to an area north of Brooks, Alta, a beautiful ranch, bordering on the Red Deer River.

EMPTY SADDLES

Guy Murphy Maple Creek, SK 1942 ~ 2024

Guy Murphy was a top hand with a horse and a hockey stick, and it was while playing semi-pro for San Fransisco that he decided he’d rather be a cowboy.

He spent much of his life riding, enjoying a 35-year career as manager of the Martin Grazing Co-op north of Maple Creek. He and his wife, Ardene, raised their two sons out there where the road ended.

Guy was also a renowned rawhide braider and leatherworker whose art was featured on horses and in museums on both sides of the Medicine Line.

Guy was featured as a Living Legend in the Aug/ Sept 2011 issue of Canadian Cowboy Country.

PHOTOS: JOHN WARE SUPPLIED; GUY MURPHY PHOTO BY YVONNE ARNTSEN

Specializing in Rodeo, Ranch & Humourous Fine Artworks!

“

It is not what we have in life, but who we have in our life that matters.”

Check our Facebook page to see where Ash will be next: Follow Ash Cooper Art and Ranch Gallery

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IN THE CORRAL

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WHERE IN THE WORLD IS CANADIAN COWBOY?

COWBOY WEDDING! CONGRATULATIONS TO Danielle Willie and Ross Kreutzer on their summer (June 15) wedding.

The couple had a small ceremony on the Bandy Ranch and a big dance at The Armoury in Maple Creek, Sask.

Danielle is the witty whiz-cook who runs the lunch counter at Cowtown Livestock Exchange, and Ross, the 2001 Calgary Stampede Saddle Bronc Champion and the 2006 Canadian SB Champion, is a pasture manager deep in southern Saskatchewan on the Medicine Line.

STOCKING THE HERD

STOCKING THE HERD

RIGGS JOHN LINK

LUKE HENRY TANNER

Congratulations to Lane and Shaylee Link on the birth of their first child, Riggs John Link.

Riggs was born Feb 24, 2024, and weighed 7 lbs 11 oz.

The young couple ranch near Maple Creek, Sask. Mom is a veterinarian assistant and horse trainer, and Dad is a full-time custom cowboy.

(Apr/May 2021 "Have Rope, Will Travel".)

Congratulations to Brian and Caitlyn on the birth of their third child, Luke Henry Tanner. He was born July 9, 2024, and weighed 7 lbs 2 oz.

The young couple lives near Cooking Lake, Alta. Mom is enjoying mat leave, and Dad is a heavy-duty mechanic and instructor at NAIT. Luke is the third grandchild of Canadian Cowboy publishers Rob and Marie Tanner.

PUNTA CANA IS a resort town in the easternmost region of the Dominican Republic.

Its population is around 139,000.

The area is known for its white sand beaches, blue turquoise waters, and balnearios (resort town) which faces both the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. The weather is hot for most of the year, especially in late summer and autumn when the Northern Tropics receive their most direct sunlight. The 100-kilometre (62 mi) coastline tends to be mildly windy. The ocean waters are mainly shallows, with several natural marine pools.

The area now boasts a 1,500-acre reserve that serves as a research base for universities and a sanctuary for endangered species.

The Punta Cana International Airport is the primary airport and receives an average of 2.4M passengers a year, including Ray Pich of Lac la Biche, Alta.

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Canadian Cowboy Country October/November 2024

LESLIE DAWN PHOTOGRAPHY

Punta Cana, DR

J.R.’S RAMBLING MIND

CFCW’S 70, I’M NOT! (Damn close, though.)

E. J. HUGHES Canadian War Artist

PHOTOS: CFCW ARCHIVES; P. JACOBS STUDIO

BY ROBERT AMOS

In 1939, E. J. Hughes applied to several full-time military units as an artist. Suddenly, war was imminent, and on Sept 1, 1939, the world realized that Hitler would not stop. On Sept 3 Britain and France declared war, and a week later, on Sept 10, Canada went to war with Germany. E. J. Hughes enlisted.

Hughes was the first official Canadian war artist, leaving a remarkable artistic legacy. He travelled from Vancouver to Ottawa to London, to different regiments in England and Wales and even Alaska. His work ethic and focus were extraordinary, and he created the largest body of work of any Canadian war artist.

This book features evocative sketches, paintings, and photographs curated by Robert Amos—many from the Canadian War Museum—and the stories behind Hughes’ art. Each is mesmerizing, especially to a generation of Canadians who have only known peace.

Get this book for yourself, your kids, and your grandkids of a time long past but never to be forgotten, captured by E. J. Hughes.

E. J. Hughes: Canadian War Artist Author: Robert Amos | Hardcover | 216 Pages Publisher TouchWood Editions touchwoodeditions.com

cowboycountrymagazine.com

Early 80s CFCW’s on-air team; back, from left: Hank Secord, Bob Meyers, Dale Smith, Bruce Makokis, Harold Moland, Bev Munro, and Curley Gurlock. Seated from left: George Ferguson, R.J. Tomkins, Pete Hicks, Roy Anderson, and Lanny Lee Hagen.

HERE IS A SHAMELESS PLUG FOR MY RADIO STATION! On November 2, 1954, CFCW first went on the airwaves in Camrose, Alberta. We were a small 250-watt radio station that played a bit of everything—opera, country, rock n’ roll, pop—and revenue and ratings weren’t that good. The big stations from Edmonton were handing us our lunch. What to do?

How about becoming Canada’s first full-time country station? That decision was made

by Warren Holte and Hal Yerxa over a bottle of whiskey back in 1960, and within a year, the CFCW you know today was flying high (not from whiskey!).

We were the only station playing full-time country music and super-serving rural Alberta.

Seven decades later, we’re still doing it.

If you want to find out more about this great radio station, we have a book on Amazon: The Story of 840 CFCW. A portion of the proceeds will go to our Little Miracles Trust Fund.

It’s a fun read and a great way to celebrate our 70th Anniversary.

Jackie Rae Greening 840 CFCW Program Director & Mid-Days Honourary Doctorate MacEwan University CCMA & Country Music Alberta Hall of Fame

CFCW’s on-location Broadcast Trailer at the Drayton Valley Rodeo in 1962

Hear Jackie Rae weekdays on 840 CFCW! Email Jackie Rae with column suggestions: jrgreening@stingray.com

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SPIRIT OF THE WEST

New Tunes!

BY HUGH MCLENNAN

A

nine-year-long project always takes way more time than you had figured. There’d be a lot more glitches and setbacks.

Sometimes, it won’t work, no matter how many times you try it.

I’m talking about recording an album.

It’s only been nine years since our last one, Creak of the Leather. The first run sold out, and we still have a bunch.

With what I guess was somewhat flawed cowboy logic, in light of the diminishing demand for CDs and the fact that vehicle makers don’t put them in new vehicles, we launched headlong into a new project.

If it weren’t for the wisdom, experience, and tech-savvy of Tom Cole, we’d still be working on it.

The Creak of the Leather was a fun project. Tom, Margie, and little brother Jim spent a few days recording the tracks. Tom then took them home to his Hill Top Studio in Fort St. John for added tracks, mixing, and mastering. Our support guy, Mark

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McMillan, did a fine job on the artwork and photo editing, and it seemed we had it all done in no time.

It wasn’t possible to do this one like that.

It all started with picking out the songs.

After a rare flash of inspiration, I wrote the title track and co-wrote another one. When the list was complete, I sweated over recording my guitar and vocal tracks in the Spirit of the West Studio.

I uploaded them to Tom, who, in his tender way, would make gentle suggestions like: “You really rushed that last verse,” “You’re only two or three notes flat on that one,” or “Maybe you should re-tune your guitar.”

He sent them to the other Western Spirit Band members: bass player Mike Dygert in Cold Lake and my guitar virtuoso little brother Jim in Turner Valley.

When he got those tracks back, Tom worked his magic and added a great rhythm guitar, Clint Geisbrecht, Tom’s backup harmonies, some fine steel guitar

and dobro from Beau Hughes in Salmon Arm and fine fiddle playing from Rachelle Wilms and Dave Glowaski.

About song selection: I’ve seen several good CDs with no composer or publishing credits. I really love the ones we picked, and I wanted to make sure we took care of the royalties and copyright payments—I only had to sell all my old cowboy hats, three buckles, and a tractor to cover that.

Once the details were in place, the pressing finally got started. About that time, Jim and Lynda stopped in for a visit, and my sharp-eared little brother pointed out three songs we had worked on and forgot to add to the project. I guess that means we might have to do another one.

Oh yeah, I think the title fits: A Little Past Our Prime.

You can download it from Music | Hugh McLennan (bandcamp.com) and other streaming platforms, order the CD from my website, hugh-mclennan.com, or email me at mclennan_ranch@xplornet.com. c

Canadian Cowboy Country October/November 2024

PHOTO BY BILLIE MCLENNAN

From left, Mike Dygert, Hugh and Jim McLennan on stage

RANCH RAMBLINGS

Defining Moments

BY NIKI FLUNDRA

From left, Niki's husband Dustin and their boys, Shade, Ridge and Kace Flundra

PHOTO: ROD SINCLAIR

S

ometimes, life can feel like a roller coaster, especially when your chosen occupations involve rodeos and ranches.

As I reminisce over the years, I believe my perspective has changed with the wider scope that the passing of time brings about.

Here is what I have realized: I was meant to learn and grow through the ups and downs to prepare for the path my life was meant to take. The so-called failures taught me more about what I was capable of than the good times ever did. They taught me how to dust myself off and keep going, work harder, and have grace under pressure.

cowboycountrymagazine.com

We don’t always know why we go through the things we do at the time, whether it's the highs or the lows. We typically don’t question the good times, but we sure do the hard times. I believe they both reveal our true character, and it is in the hard that we strengthen and grow in the ways we need to live our lives for our Godgiven purpose.

Our good friend J.R. Vezain, who was paralyzed in a rodeo accident, has the best attitude about life that you could ever imagine. He talks about how the victory is in the climb. He talks about how God is using him and his journey

despite its hardships to do so much good in this world and to share inspiration. I have thought so much about that lately.

The beauty really and truly is in the journey—how you show up for yourself, your family, your animals and how you make the world a better place. True fulfillment will come from these things, not just the wins.

We know this from rodeo—all the buckles and accolades are sure rewarding, but I think most cowboys and cowgirls would most want to be remembered for their character—in the arena and out. So often in life, we focus on that buckle, but the real lessons and value come from the hard work, the perseverance it takes, and the character that stands up under pressure during these big moments. That is what lasts forever.

Our boys absolutely idolize Zeke Thurston, the Superman of the Bronc Riding world. They love watching him win, but what they will remember about him most is that he has always taken the time to visit them, take pictures with them, and give them some encouraging words. That is a Champion.

I am willing to bet our oldest boy, Ridge, remembers going on stage at the Calgary Stampede when his dad won it, and again, all three boys being up there with him when he won the Guy Weadick Award.

I’m also willing to bet that what they will remember most about their dad is not his bronc riding accolades but that he always works it out no matter how tough things might get. He always makes time for them, and he always does the right thing, even if it's the hard thing.

He helps people when needed and sets an example of how to work hard, live with integrity, and keep a humble nature—traits worth remembering. I believe that, without a doubt, there is a reason why God sets people of character on their own distinct paths—to shine.

To quote C.S. Lewis, “Don't shine so others can see you. Shine, so that through you, others can see Him." c

13

WHEEL TO WHEEL

Outriding Superiority

BY BILLY MELVILLE

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and Rory Gervais the competition to win a World title is not easy. It takes hard work, dedication, and good fortune needs to be on your side. In 2023, it paid off for Ethan, and he won his first World Outriding title.

Fast forward one year and Ethan can possibly win a second consecutively, but to do that, he has to beat one of his idols again— Rory Gervais.

“Rory is one of the greatest outriders ever,” says Ethan. “It’s nice when the hard work pays off, and you can win a world title, but when you can beat a legend like Rory, it makes it all that more special.”

He is right, as former outrider Eddie Melville said, “In order to be the best, you have to beat the best,” and Rory Gervais will go down as one of the best of all time.

Last year Ethan beat him out to win the World Outriding Championship, and this

year at the COWBOYS Rangeland Derby, he ended Gervais’ unimaginable streak of seven consecutive Outstanding Outrider Awards at Calgary Stampede. At this moment, Ethan is the best because he beat the best, and it’s a distinction that he wants to hold onto.

At the time I am writing this, we are heading into the Wild West WPCA World Chuckwagon Finals in Ponoka, and Rory Gervais has a slight lead over Ethan for the world outriding title. Still, luck and circumstance might tip the scales toward Ethan.

Either way, the fans can enjoy watching two worthy champions battle it out for outriding superiority. It would be a fourth World Outriding Championship for Rory Gervais, and it could be the second of maybe a future number of World Championships for Ethan Motowylo.

Only time will tell. c

Canadian Cowboy Country October/November 2024

PHOTO BY EASTON PHOTOGRAPHY

W

hen Obrey Motowylo started driving the big wagons in 2004, his oldest son Ethan was just getting out of diapers. But from that moment on, as it often is in chuckwagon families, hopes were that Ethan would not only follow in his father’s footsteps in the chuckwagon business but excel in the sport.

First, start as an outrider and eventually become a driver. Time will tell whether or not he moves up to become a driver, but at this point, his focus is on being the best outrider he can be.

By age 15, Ethan started on the path as an outrider, and the promise he showed had everyone thinking that he would eventually be a World Champion, and Ethan Motowylo, wanted to prove everyone right.

But when you have outriders such as Chad Fike, Chad Cosgrave, Chance Flad

Ethan Motowylo in yellow jacket at Calgary Stampede

RANCHING TECHNOLOGY

RANCHING TECHNOLOGY

BY TERRI MASON

STOCK.ADOBE.COM/ BARILLO_PICTURE; STOCK.ADOBE.COM/ SCHARFSINN86; STOCK.ADOBE.COM/ JULIEN EICHINGER

A

lot of rural living folks tend to view technology with suspicion, and until it proves itself useful in time, money, or livestock saved, it’s interesting but not really trusted—after all, no one hates change more than humans—and dairy cows.

With the technology available today, it’s simply the old adage of “building a better mousetrap.” Not everything new is great, not everything shiny is wonderful and not everything that glitters is gold. But sometimes—as my ol’ gold panning buddies Jerry and Donna have long discovered, you sluice enough gravel, you’re going to find a few nuggets.

In the last few years, there have been some cost-effective time savers launched on the market that can reduce a rancher’s work time. Also, most of these applications (apps) aren’t just a one-trick pony but have several uses in one app—and can be applied for a variety of livestock.

I’ve rounded up some of these technological advances, so have a read. Perhaps something here can help you manage your time and resources more efficiently.

cowboycountrymagazine.com

Ear tags help track herds

HERD MONITORING With the billion-dollar cattle rustling trade showing no signs of abatement, it’s pretty much up to the producer to protect and track their animals, no matter how far away.

EAR TAGS One of these technological advances is ear tags that monitor each bovine in your herd.

One such provider is Autonomous Rancher, out of Fargo, ND. Their ear tag can monitor herd health in far-flung pastures, how much water the herd or individual livestock is consuming, and even whether your bulls are doing what they’re supposed to do—and which bull is doing it most often.

Other functions include sending an alert to the producer’s cell phones if a bull hasn’t moved for an extended period or an alert of a high-speed warning if an animal moves above 29 mph. At that speed, that bull was loaded in a rustler’s trailer. The platform also features a bull mounting algorithm to inform farmers which bulls are most proactive in their duties.

Ranchers also get herd health alerts, GPS positioning data, bull mounting detection, estrus detection (great for artificial insemination), calving detection (this app is coming soon and will be great for heifers), quick and easy head count, weak fence tracking and much more. Let me repeat that: Quick and easy head count.

SENSEHUB Another ear tag sensor is very useful in a feedlot situation. SenseHub® Feedlot, from Allflex Livestock Intelligence, markets itself as “proven to detect sick cattle more efficiently and more accurately than traditional visual observation.”

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RANCHING TECHNOLOGY

WHOLE RANCH MONITORS MONNIT SENSORS With Monnit Sensors connected to the Internet of Things (IoT), it's easy to monitor operations, crops, and livestock. By monitoring what matters most, the sensors alert you via text, email, or call if something goes wrong.

Secure valuable assets and livestock by knowing doors or gates are closed. Check temps and airflow in enclosures, like coops and barns, to ensure livestock well-being.

Monitor photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) light in greenhouses to make growing conditions just right. Let your soil tell you when to water your crops with strategically placed ALTA® by Monnit Soil Moisture Sensors throughout your fields and orchards. monnit.com

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Bigly Brothers drone

PHONE APPS

DRONES Drones have proven to be popular wildlife and herd monitoring tools. They allow producers to locate and monitor their livestock from almost anywhere, allowing the producer to view animal locations and keep track of their welfare, calving seasons and grazing patterns.

If your ranch has a lot of coulees, a drone could spot the cattle so you can send the riders out for more time-efficient round-ups. They can also help producers monitor grazing patterns. Some drones can even be outfitted with various components to check on herd health.

Here are some outfits to check out and see if they match your needs.

• wildlifedrones.net • biglybrothers.com • cartocanada.ca

EQUINE BREEDING PLANNER Developed by veterinarians and horse breeders for horse breeders.

Manage your mares, record all data and plan all appointments from stallion selection, insemination, pregnancy, birth to weaning of the foal. play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com. ionic.ebp&hl=en_US Other cattle and horse phone apps available on your cell phone whose names alone are self-explanatory, include: •S howSafe Breeding Calculator / Medicine Calculator • CheckInn Incubation Assistant • iProMed – Animal Health Utilities • Animal Pregnancy Calculator • My Cattle Manager • Cow Master – Herd Management • CattleMax • Herdwatch • Fence Genius Measure & Install • Longhorn Tape Measure

Use phone apps to help plan stock breeding

Canadian Cowboy Country October/November 2024

DRONE IMAGE COURTESY BIGLY BROTHERS; STOCK.ADOBE.COM/ CALLIPSO88; STOCK.ADOBE.COM/ RUSLAN IVANTSOV; STOCK.ADOBE.COM/ WARMWORLD

SenseHub Feedlot offers an innovative new approach to detecting illness, including bovine respiratory disease (BRD). The illuminating electronic ear tag makes it easy to identify and sort cattle needing attention with less labor and minimal disruption to other animals.

Since all animal’s primary defense system is to hide illness, this makes it very challenging to find sick animals. SenseHub Feedlot assists the pen rider by removing the guesswork so animals can be pulled and treated more quickly and more accurately.

The product also has application in backgrounding (and possibly stocker operations) or cow/calf operations retaining calves. Current users of the technology have described SenseHub Feedlot as, "another employee monitoring cattle 24 hours a day, seven days a week." Additionally, they have reported lower overall treatment costs, less mortality, fewer retreatments, and improved treatment outcomes due to earlier intervention.

From Merck Animal Health.

There are other apps, but here are the sites of a couple of outfits to check out and see if they match your needs.

• 701x.com • SenseHubFeedlot.com

RANCHING TECHNOLOGY

Ag Eagle lightweight drone

REMOTE MONITORING SOLUTIONS FOR AGRICULTURE AND LIVESTOCK COUNTRY GUARD Many of the surveillance and monitoring systems available today are real time savers, and can help prevent a wreck before it gets out of control.

This isn’t new, but it’s just as important, and that is “cow cams.” Being able to remotely watch an animal in labour is a great invention. Depending on a myriad of circumstances that can range from something as simple as a new chore coat or the ranch dog being in the truck with you,

with a highly-attuned herd, any unusual disturbance can result in a cow stopping her labour—it’s a primitive survival response.

Often, being able to monitor a cow’s labour progress remotely makes for a faster and safer labour, allowing you to only enter the area if they need help.

Home, yard and equipment surveillance cams have also come a long way.

Rural theft is beyond kids breaking into a shed, it’s now a multi-billion-dollar organized crime, and never has rural security been of greater concern than today.

Ramping up your ranch and property security has seen wide-open ranch road entrances giving way to lockable gates.

Equipment is stored in secure buildings, and security cameras whose range covers the yard, corrals or distant pastures are becoming more common.

Gone are the days of fuzzy, grainy video.

Today’s technology offers high-resolution video and sharp, clear photography stills transmitted to your phone, no matter where you are.

Whether you live on a tidy acreage or a sprawling cattle ranch, it’s up to you to protect your property, your home, your family and your livestock. Most companies offer infra-red and night vision cameras, too.

Here are a few to investigate to see if they meet your needs.

• Country Guard Security countryguard.ca • Precision Cam precisioncam.ca • Vosker vosker.com • Telus telus.com

PODCASTS One handy way to listen to the highly entertaining and informative world of podcasts on your Android phone is to download the free Spotify or Google Podcasts app from the Play Store. This app has a great podcast library, and a search bar, making it easy to access the podcast episode you're looking for.

If you have a favourite Western lifestyle podcast, share it with us!

Editor@cowboycountrymagazine.com

COWBOY LIFE Great stories from working cowboys in the U.S. Highly entertaining. podcasts.apple.com/in/podcast/cowboy-life/ id1652132977

THE WILD COURAGE PODCAST Wild Courage offers a tribe of brothers unafraid of the deep, dark places. Knowing you're not alone creates hope. thewildcourage.org

IN THE LOOP RODEO PODCAST Hosted by Jordan Jo Hollabaugh, a professional breakaway roper who brings you the raw truth behind the box of the breakaway roping industry. iheart.com/podcast/269-in-the-loop-podcastwith-j-81926229

THE SHORT ROUND The official podcast of the Canadian Professional Rodeo Association. theshortround.podbean.com

THE WORKING DOG PODCAST WITH ALISON ERSKINE

PHOTO COURTESY VOSKER; STOCK.ADOBE.COM/ SYOKO

Interviews with great working dog trainers such as Peter Gonnet, Dale Montgomery, etc. podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/ the-working-dog-podcast/id1553966078

THE MEATEATER PODCAST Hunting, fishing, wild recipes, gear and tales of the wilderness themeateater.com c

Vosker security camera

cowboycountrymagazine.com

17

RODEO SCHOOL

BRINGING RODEO TO

CANADIAN TELEVISION Subscribe to our Cable/ Satellite Services today!

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RODEO SCHOOL

RODEO

READING, WRITING, ARITHMETIC

FOREMOST SCHOOL OFFERS THE 4 R’S OF EDUCATION STORY BY BRITTNEY CHOMISTEK PHOTOS BY FOREMOST SCHOOL STUDENT KATELAN VIROSTEK/KCV PHOTOGRAPHY

W

Steer wrestling training using highly-specialized equipment

hen you think of option classes for junior and high school students, you may think of art, music, drama, foods, woodshop, mechanics or even cosmetology. Rodeo typically never comes to mind, but at the Foremost School in the Prairie Rose School Division, this is a reality.

When students enroll in the Rodeo Academy, they not only fine-tune their rodeo skills but also earn credits for rodeo-related courses, which can be applied to their Alberta High School Diploma. These specially designed modules are combined with hands-on rodeo experience, coached by professional cowboys and cowgirls who have qualified for either the National Finals Rodeo or the Canadian Finals Rodeo throughout their professional careers.

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RODEO SCHOOL

For this strong rural and ranching community located in Southern Alberta, the decision to offer a Rodeo Academy as part of the school curriculum seemed a natural fit.

Superintendent Reagan Weeks has been instrumental in developing many unique programs in the Prairie Rodeo School Division that align with student lifestyles, interests of communities, and job opportunities.

“Schools have gone through a lot of change and communities have spoken out about wanting something different from educational institutions,” said Superintendent Weeks. “I am really proud that our division has responded by listening to the community and by partnering with businesses and local experts. From this, we have been able to create some really unique programming opportunities tailored to the village of Foremost.”

If there is enough demand, the Prairie Rose School Division will consider offering daily buses from Medicine Hat for students who live there.

The qualified coaches have an extensive amount of knowledge, competition experience, and passion for the sport of

Top: More steer wrestling training Left: Breakaway roping Right: Goat tying

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Canadian Cowboy Country October/November 2024

RODEO SCHOOL

rodeo. These professionals share their knowledge not only on state-of-the-art rodeo equipment from SMARTY Bronc, 7K roping, Rope Something, but also with provided livestock.

Combining both simulated action and livestock provides our students with hands-on experience to improve their rodeo skills, mindset, and athletic ability.

With the support of these high-calibre coaches, students learn ways to enhance their performance and gain a competitive edge, something that many athletes do not receive. The coaches are hired based on events Rodeo Academy students are competing in.

The coaching roster includes: •C lark Hughson (Head Coach)—6X CFR Qualifier.

• Austin Beasley—4X CFR Qualifier, NFR Qualifier, Provincial and National Bull Riding Champion, Founding Director of PBR Canada.

•R aylee Walters Edwards—12X CFR Qualifier, Canadian Barrel Racing Champion, former Barrel Racing Olympic Athlete, CPRA Cowgirl of the Year.

cowboycountrymagazine.com

Top: From left: Dane Hirsche, Carl Pearson, Roan Bosch Above: Instructors Guy Chomistek and Brittney Chomistek

•M att Lait—10X CFR Qualifier, Canadian Bareback Riding Champion, CFR Average Winner.

• Todd Woodward—9X CFR Qualifier, Canadian Steer Wrestling Champion, CFR Average Winner.

All of these coaches have extensive rodeo experience, which they are now sharing with our youth to develop strong athletes in the sport.

Bareback and saddle bronc riding coach Matt Lait says, “Laying the foundation of any athlete is the key to success. The Academy offers just that. The coaches, practices, and students who all have similar values and interests help them start achieving their goals in the sport of rodeo.”

The two schoolteachers who help organize the Rodeo Academy, provide classroom instruction and support the coaches, all have an extensive background in agriculture and rodeo.

Guy Chomistek was a former CFR Tie Down Roper contestant and a World Top 20 Team Roper who taught roping clinics in the four western provinces. 2017 Miss Rodeo Canada Brittney Chomistek uses her strong rodeo connections to organize event clinics for students with professional athletes and to secure sponsorship opportunities with businesses in support of the Rodeo Academy.

For more information on the Foremost Rodeo Academy, email Brittney Chomistek at brittneychomistek@prrd8.ca or guychomistek@prrd8.ca to learn how you can become part of this exciting program. c

21

BRINGING IN THE SHEAVES

BRINGING IN THE SHEAVES REDING’S FAMILY FARM TRADITION

BY DOUG NELSON

2006 CFR saddle bronc rider J.R. Reding sharing the lines with his daughter Raylee (pink cowboy boots)

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Canadian Cowboy Country October/November 2024

BRINGING IN THE SHEAVES

I

n 1910 Zeno and Adolphine “Big thirty-six-inch threshing Reding moved up from Minmachine outfits travelled around nesota to Alberta with their the country moving from farm two boys, Herman and Walter. field to farm field,” Robin recalled.

Robin Reding recalls how “They needed lots of men to drive his grandfather, Zeno, often spoke of teams for the bundle wagons and his time in St. Paul driving teams for had ‘sleeping’ cars and ‘cook’ cars local breweries. A recent immigrant for the crew.” from Switzerland, Zeno learned how “Grandpa told me that 1923 proto properly feed and care for the vided the best crops he’d ever seen,” draft horses that would power his Robin said, “And the weather coopAlberta farming operation. erated. They worked 33 to 34 days The Redings initially leased five without a stop.” quarters of land west of Beiseker Then the ‘Dirty Thirties’ blew in, before purchasing the family’s present and everything changed. Drought Top: 1928 Minneapolis Threshing Machine Co separator, property east of Irricana in 1927. While conditions, poor crops, and even 1915 Aultman Taylor water tank on International Harvester in Beiseker, a neighbour loaned them poorer prices meant that farmers running gear beside the 1916 George White & Sons 28 HP steam tractor. All of these machines were restored by Robin. several teams of draft mares. That gencould not pay their bills.

Above: Herman "Mood" Reding; note the rein chains, erous neighbour also allowed Zeno to During harvest the Reding men circle iron stirrups and fancy angoras breed the mares and keep the foals! would hire themselves and their When asked what breed the mares horses out to help thresh their were, Robin replied: “Back then draft horses Not just draft horses were required on neighbours’ fields, getting $2 a day for were hard to come by. You took what you the farm. Although an avid gardener, Adoltheir labour and another $2 a day for a could get!” phine needed store-bought essentials like team and rack.

“Both my father, Herman (Mood) and baking soda, sugar, and coffee, so light draft “Now, $2 only buys a decent chocolate his brother Walter turned out to be excelhorses pulled her buggy back and forth to bar,” Robin chuckled, “but back then, it lent horsemen,” Robin continued. “Grandpa town. Saddle horses were needed after Zeno bought a couple pairs of blue jeans or a said Walter was especially good at handling acquired cattle to utilize the farm’s less aragood Stetson hat.” the young, green horses.” ble land. During winter, these same cattle Many industrious farmers also used their Robin’s father, Mood, displayed his skills fed on the straw piles left after threshing. draft teams to work on road construction in the arena, competing in the saddle bronc Few farmers had their own threshing or maintenance to pay off their taxes—anyevent at rodeos like the Calgary Stampede. machines back then. thing to keep the family farm afloat.

cowboycountrymagazine.com

23

BRINGING IN THE SHEAVES

A new team learns rapidly that the place they want to be is standing and resting beside the separator, even with a 30-foot belt whizzing by.

The financial situation became so bad across the country that the government created a Farmers’ Creditors Arrangement Act to ‘keep the farmer on the farm’. Although the Redings’ existing arrears were paid, the local board insisted that Herman, rather than his elderly father, assume legal responsibility for further farm debts.

The resulting mental and physical stresses took their toll. Mood’s health began to deteriorate, and he passed away in 1966 at the age of 63, only three years after his 93-year-old father.

At only 20 years of age, Robin Reding assumed control of the family farm. Robin eventually sold off his father’s two old draft horses. The following winter, during a severe cold spell, Robin couldn’t get the tractor started to haul feed to his cows, and he had to purchase another team.

Working with horses again spurred Robin's desire to celebrate and preserve his father’s and grandfather’s way of life. Since the 1970s, Robin, with help and support from family and friends, has preserved the farm’s working horse tradition by holding

24

semi-regular horse-driven threshing, seeding, and haying bees.

Robin’s son, J. R., has loved being around and working with horses from his earliest days. J. R. has been the biggest supporter of Robin’s desire to preserve the Reding family’s horse-working tradition.

As the years passed, Robin focused his attention more on the mechanical side of

“Both my father, Herman (Mood) and his brother Walter turned out to be excellent horsemen” the threshing bees, while J. R. concentrated on the horse aspect.

Putting on horse-powered sessions is no easy task. Every year, Robin and J. R. spend weeks preparing just to have

progressively rare horse-drawn equipment patched up and ready to function.

The horses also need preparation. Every year, some rookie drafts work for the first time, and the older horses need to be conditioned. And every year, J.R. knows that his uncle Harry will help stook the loose bundles.

For decades, various family and friends have left their own farming operations in mid-season to contribute time, effort and horsepower to participate in the Redings’ threshing bees.

Often there are no instructions required.

Robin recalled a first day when old friend Ralph Loosmore drove into the yard, hooked his four Belgians to his usual stook loader and went to work filling up bundle wagons. Robin was busy running the threshing machine. He and Ralph only got a chance to greet one another over the dinner table at the end of that day.

In more recent times, fellows like Fred McDiarmid, Art Cox and Glenn Casselman haul their teams from miles away to facilitate the process. Young Justin Bruner comes

Canadian Cowboy Country October/November 2024

Ground-driven stook loader shoots sheaves onto the bundle rack

JOIN US FOR A

Stook loader with 4-across and a full bundle rack pulled by a team

down from northern Alberta continuing a family tradition started by his father.

Robin often returns the favour. He helps others by supplying knowledge and actual physical help, like driving a team at his friend Leo Gooch’s regular threshing bee.

In 2022 I videotaped the first use of a Minneapolis threshing machine that took Robin over 25 years to rebuild. This ‘2022 Reding Family Threshing’ is now a YouTube video available on my own ‘Farmboy1950’ channel.

In the video, Robin reveals his vast knowledge in a concise and often humorous fashion, detailing the preparation and execution of a Reding family farm threshing.

While watching the video, the other feature that will become obvious is how important it is for Robin and J.R. to continue working this family operation into the future.

Both of J.R.’s daughters, Whitley and Raylee, have a huge interest in working and riding horses.

In his later years, Robin wants nothing more than for his granddaughters to continue working with horses on the Reding farm as the fifth generation.

Seven-year-old Whitley summed up what the farm means to her, “‘The farm means freedom and family; it means taking care of animals and learning; it means working hard, but having more fun than you ever know.”

Echoing her father, Whitley said, “It means tradition”—the Reding family farm tradition.c

cowboycountrymagazine.com

Night out in November

INAUGURAL GALA

AUCTION ~ DINNER ~ DANCE ~ COWBOY BLACK TIE Saturday, November 2nd, 2024 at 6pm Alumni Hall, Olds College, Olds, AB Fundraiser for

Raising awareness for mental wellness in rural communities

porchlightsociety.ca

What’s your Prairie Rose Possibility?

www.myprps.com 25

IN REMEMBRANCE

Kyle Scott

TOMBSTONES, MEDALS & PURPOSE

STOCK.ADOBE.COM/ MAKASANA PHOTO

BY TERRI MASON

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Canadian Cowboy Country October/November 2024

IN REMEMBRANCE

C

From left, a veteran receiving the Canadian Peacekeeping Service medal, Kyle Scott, and Brian Scott (Kyle’s father)

orporal (Ret’d) Kyle Scott of Whitecourt, Alta, traces some of his family roots on his mother's side to homesteads near Castor and Bulwark, Alta. However, his career choice was not rooted in the land; he always wanted to be a soldier.

His great-grandfather was a WW1 vet, his grandfather had a 34-year Army career, and his Dad was in the Navy, so it was no surprise that he would become the fourth generation to serve. He also wanted to see the world.

PHOTO COURTESY KYLE SCOTT COLLECTION

THE ARMY “After I graduated, I ran off to Edmonton and joined the Army,” said Kyle. He aimed for the Royal Canadian Engineers and was known as a Sapper. [An old term that goes back to the French language, which loosely translates as ‘digging of fortifications.’]

He trained in New Brunswick, was posted back to Edmonton, qualified as a LAV III Gunner, and was employed as a Section Gunner in 2 Troop, 11 Field Squadron, 1 Combat Engineer Regiment.

cowboycountrymagazine.com

“I went to Kabul, [capital of Afghanistan] on my first tour in 2004. It was a great bunch of guys. It was also an eye-opener to very strange and different parts of the world,” he said. “It had its tense moments, but for the most part, it was just great because we got to work with so many different countries. And we saw a lot of terrain over there, just by the nature of our job. It's a strangely beautiful country,” he said.

“Like any large city, the inner-city portion is crowded and dirty and loud and smelly,” he said, “but so’s downtown Edmonton,” he laughs. “But what was amazing is that it was built into the Hindu Kush mountains, almost like being in the Rockies. Rivers run through the city, and you are in a time capsule.

“Everywhere you look, there was a remnant of the Soviets, or you'd even see some pieces of British history lying around.

And you think of how many people tried to conquer that area, going back to Alexander the Great, and it's just not meant to be. I was standing on the grave of empires.”

After that tour, Kyle returned to Canada and was transferred to 1 Troop, 11 Field

Squadron, 1 CER, 1 PPCLI Battlegroup to be their gunner in the LAV. “I was back in Afghanistan exactly one year later. But in Kandahar, everything was different— languages, culture—everything.”

“They didn't trust anybody,” he said.

“Kandahar was the home of the Taliban.

That's where they were born and bred. We were being shot at immediately, ambushed and were taking fire on the main base (a massive base of 20,000 people), he said.

“It was pretty brutal and chaotic, and very, very, very much war with an enemy that felt like an enemy.”

“By the end of that tour, the battle group had 17 soldiers killed in action and upwards of a couple hundred wounded. It was a pretty high statistic of getting hurt or killed,” he said. “In the month after I returned, I figured out, ‘I’m not the same guy anymore.’”

BACK HOME Kyle was diagnosed with PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), and he left the military. “It was a pretty crappy end to a lifelong dream,” he said.

27

IN REMEMBRANCE So, there he was, going from the top of the world at 27 to living in his parent’s basement, and questioning every decision he’d ever made.

Then, one day, a chance encounter led to a distribution operator job at ATCO. Sixteen years later, he’s still working for ATCO Gas, but now as a journeyman gas fitter. The company is known to be “very pro-veteran, pro-military,” said Kyle.

THE POPPY FUND His rise in the organization was steady, from an executive committee member to the president of the Legion to a Service Officer (SO). The SO fights for veterans to get benefits and emergency assistance. After several years, Kyle became the District SO, looking after all the service officers from Jasper to Edmonton and overseeing the millions of dollars paid to veterans.

With some prodding, the humble man lists some of the successes. “I got people living in their vehicles into homes and got them addiction counselling. I've sat in hospitals with veterans who were going to commit suicide, and I got them in care. I phone 911 to get paramedics into people's houses to get them before they do it.” The list goes on—built handicapped ramps fixed the roof, replaced furnaces, put new doors on houses that couldn't close, and put food in starving people's bellies.

“And that’s all because of the Legion,” he said. “Because of the Poppy Fund. Every

28

When fixing a furnace, Kyle noticed these medals and recognized the Dieppe veteran medal. Kyle got the Dieppe Bar issued to the family to complete the medal set of her father-in-law.

MILITARY TOMBSTONES

Kyle and Jeff Rainey, an Afghanistan veteran, finally received the General Service Medal for SW Asia, and he also received his First Rotation Bar, (which meant he had a second deployment to Afghanistan.)

Orin Arnold, an American Civil War veteran buried in Beechmount Cemetery in Edmonton, Alta was unmarked until Kyle wrote to the United States government and had a marker sent from the US to Edmonton, courtesy of the US govt. "We used the Last Post Fund to pay for installation costs."

“Once I got out, I used to go to the cemetery and walk through the rows of military markers,” said Kyle. “There, I could talk, yell, air my grievances; nobody was there. I started noticing that many of the markers were in bad condition—and I thought, ‘This is not right.’

“I found out about the Veterans Affairs Graveside Maintenance program. If you've had a military marker provided by the government, they're responsible for taking care of it forever,” he explained. “So I sent all these photos and a rambling email about how disrespectful this was. But six months later, all those WWI and WWII veteran headstones were replaced.

I was shocked.”

“So then, boom, I have a new job. I started driving all over Alberta, looking for grave markers that were beat up or broken and sent them off to Veterans Affairs.”

He soon started wondering about the unmarked graves. “I ended up rooting around, and a former officer in the Navy I knew was working on identifying war graves. There's a lot of work happening right now trying to identify all those grave markers in Europe that say, ‘Known to God’ or ‘Canadian soldier of the First World War.’ So I said, ‘What about the graves in Canada? ' And he asked, ‘Have you heard of the Last Post Fund? That's what they do.

They have an unmarked grave program in Canada. You submit your evidence, and if they verify that this person was a veteran and had been buried longer than five years

Canadian Cowboy Country October/November 2024

PHOTOS COURTESY KYLE SCOTT COLLECTION

THE LEGION Another chance encounter and an epiphany led Kyle onto the trail he’s blazing today, to “come down to the Legion.”

“At one point, the Legion was strictly for veterans,” said Kyle. “Eventually, the Legion realized it couldn't survive, so they opened the membership. Now, many of the Legions are social clubs, and the Legion’s work of helping veterans happens in the Service Officer portion.”

Readjusting to civilian life was tough.

“I tried to go to the Legion at first,” he said, “but nobody understood me. I got frustrated after a couple of meetings, and I quit for a bit. And then I had an epiphany. ‘If I'm just going to run away from everything for the rest of my life, I'm never going to fix anything.’ I went back and said, ‘Hey, I'd like to get involved.’”

year in the fall, buying your Poppy pays for all of it.”

The Poppy Fund is a trust fund. Every penny donated by the public when they buy a poppy is accounted for and used only for veterans and their families.

“The Service Officer meets with the veteran who's in distress—it's all very discreet. This is immediate assistance to solve your problem for now and give you some breathing room.”

“The Poppy Fund and the Legion are there as a safety net so we can get you to a safe place—fill your tummy and fix your immediate issue. But Veterans Affairs needs to step up and recognize the injury, either mentally or physically, and get you the funding and medical care that you need— quickly. The problem is, they're not quick.”

IN REMEMBRANCE

PHOTOS COURTESY KYLE SCOTT COLLECTION

Left: The tombstones of a father and son, both veterans of separate wars, were unmarked in Ross Bay, Victoria, BC. Right: Paris Carter of the Victoria Pioneer Rifles Corps is buried in Ross Bay Cemetery, Victoria, BC. Kyle fundraised for his marker, which predated the Unmarked Grave program. Paris was an African American who came to Canada in 1858 and served in the short-lived all-black Pioneer Rifle Corps from 1860 to 1865.

without a tombstone, we can do something about it.’”

I got involved when I contacted the President of the Alberta branch in 2017 or 2018,” he said.

“It's been a huge passion for me to give the respect they deserve to the ones that came before me. I very much feel that in Canada, we don't do enough to educate on the military, our veterans and the conflicts of the past within our school system. It's just wild to me that these people served in two of the biggest wars that mankind has ever known, and we can't give them the dignity of just automatically awarding them headstones?” He paused. “Sometimes people couldn't afford a tombstone.

Or they didn't have any family. They died alone and were buried in pauper graves.

It means a lot to me to find those and get them marked,” he said.

“At one point, I was submitting over 400 a year. Now, being married to Koren and our boys Declan (3) and Niall (6), who are very busy, I don't have the time I once did. But this year, I've sent in over 160.”

cowboycountrymagazine.com

Since Kyle began his quest, he has submitted over 1,500 unmarked graves for veterans across Canada, the US, and one in the UK.

AWARDED MEDALS Kyle started getting earned medals to the recipients and replacing lost medals when he was a Service Officer.

NAMING THE DEAD The Last Post Fund, created in 1909, aims to ensure that no Canadian veteran is denied a dignified funeral, burial, or military gravestone. It supports the Veterans Affairs Canada funeral and burial program. In March 2019, the Indigenous Veterans Initiative was launched to commemorate and honour the memory of over 18,000 Indigenous veterans, many of whom are thought to lie in unmarked graves.

Editor’s Note: If you know of an unmarked veteran’s grave or want to become involved, contact your local Legion.

Many veterans, when they retire from the military, go on with their lives, get married, settle down somewhere, and leave the military behind.

While speaking with veterans, Kyle would learn about their service history and, being a “medal buff ” since he was a kid, would advise veterans of new honours and awards that they now qualify for. “Most had no idea, some are indifferent, and some don't want it. I always try to approach it, ‘You might not want it, or you might not care now, but your kids or grandkids might, so let's just do it; it's not going to cost you anything.’

“I always try to remind people, ‘It's not about how many medals you have.

It's the fact that you willingly served your country and did what was asked of you in a time of need.’”

“So that's the very short synopsis of 15 years,” said Kyle. “It made me feel like I had a purpose again.”

To date, Kyle has obtained over 1,600 medals for veterans. c

29

COMMON THREADS

Upscale & Thrifted

BY BRITTNEY CHOMISTEK

Photographer Sullivan Photography Brittney’s Hair by Kole Van Maarion at The Social by Red Velvet; Brittney’s Makeup- Aria Studio

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Canadian Cowboy Country October/November 2024

COMMON THREADS

Leather Overalls: Designed and Sewn

by Susan PahlGutfriend Custom Fringe Booties: Handcrafted by Susan Pahl-Gutfriend

Ruffle Top: Thrifted Fur Vest: Susan PahlGurfriend restyled her grandmother's fur Hat: Embellished by Susan Pahl-Gutfriend

Opposite page Hat: Smithbilt Jacket: Repurposed Pendleton blanket and denim jacket by Janine’s Custom Creations Skinny Jeans: Wrangler Vintage beaded boots: Old Gringo

cowboycountrymagazine.com

Vintage Fur Coat: Repurposed by Janine’s Custom Creations Boot Stitch Jeans: Rock and Roll Denim Hair on Hide Wedge Sneakers: Alcala’s Boots

31

COMMON THREADS

Tag Canadian Cowgirl Closet and Cowboy Country magazine on Instagram to show us how you have creatively transformed vintage clothing or material into a one-of-a-kind stylish outfit.

Revamped denim/animal print jacket: Created by Susan Pahl-Gutfriend Gaucho T-shirt: from Argentina Trousers: Joseph Ribkoff Thrifted custom leather sneakers: Handcrafted by Susan Pahl-Gutfriend

Hat: Smithbilt Skirt: Repurposed Pendleton Blanket by Janine’s Custom Creations Boots: Alberta Boot Company

I

t’s all right to be inspired by the latest fashion trends and styles, but be bold enough to wear what makes you feel good. When I was young, my parents let me discover my own style. I cycled through many fashion trends that the rest of the girls my age did not follow. There was my “wear two different coloured shoes” stage, and of course, I can’t forget my “heavy camouflage” era.

I still like to add my own style to cowgirl fashion, and in this feature, I will showcase some timeless classics with a rebellious edge. Janine’s Custom Creations and Susan Pahl-Gutfriend have incorporated original designs and sustainable upcycled elements, including a Pendleton blanket, heirloom fur coats, hand-crafted boots, and vintage thrifts, to create unique Western outfits.

Fashion refers to trends of the moment, but individual style showcases the creativity that stands out in a crowd. Try customizing and adding personal flair to take your Western outfit to a new showstopper level. c

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Canadian Cowboy Country October/November 2024

ARTS & CULTURE

PORTRAIT

PAIGE ALBRECHT OILS & LEATHER

BY TERRI MASON

Paige Albrecht with a turquoise fringed saddle bag crossbody purse, and lots of turquoise jewelry

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33

ARTS & CULTURE

PORTRAIT

Raw edged messenger bag with attached indigo fox tail

Chelsea Cunningham modelling a custom corset belt

Bandolier bag with conchos

P

aige Albrecht is just what you’d expect of a hard-working, multifaceted artist.

Her long raven hair is tied back when she’s working—and she’s most often working from home on her farm west of Three Hills, Alta. Despite having a glamorous career making high-end gorgeous bags and beautiful, authentic accessories and having the talent to paint stunning art, she had to make a choice—live the life off the place or grow Paige Leather as the “go-to” place for Old West and Modern style cowgirl fashion accessories.

“I love a classic Western look,” sighs Paige. “I used to dress up often, but because

34

I work from home, I never go out anymore,” she laughs. “I haven't done as many trade shows since COVID, so all my beautiful clothes sit in my closet. But I have big goals so that is gonna change here pretty quick.”

I had to ask; Which came first?

“The art was always there from a young age. And then, in 2012, I took it very seriously as a career and began a mentorship with oil painter Doug Levitt from Calgary.

As that gained momentum, the leatherwork was a natural addition. I was inspired by high-end Western fashion from magazines, so in order to dress professionally at art shows, I created the gunslinger-style belt.

Then they just started selling. I knew I had something special when my very first belt went to England.”

Canadian Cowboy Country October/November 2024

ARTS & CULTURE

PORTRAIT Horsewoman Chelsea with lots of turquoise and a unique round concho corset belt

Her leather bags are a big passion. “It's hard to be original with social media at your fingertips. But when I began creating the bohemian-style raw-edge bags, I felt like it was fairly original to me. It wasn't a trend at that time. I credit my artistic eye for seeing the potential in what is typically leftover leather scraps and thought, ‘This leather is way too pretty to throw away.’ I decided to start showcasing the raw edge leather, making each purse extremely unique which fits perfectly with my ideals of creating original art.”

Then there are the traditional classic purses styles. “I also have a very structured design that I really love. It goes back to the bandolier bag that Southwest Native Americans made and decorated with handmade silver conchos. When I'm building for just me, I create the really ornate Southwest-style items,” she said. “I was always searching for high-quality materials, so when I discovered handmade turquoise and sterling silver conchos, it was a game changer. Paige Leather was now able to offer higher-end options to a broader clientele.”

Paige has simply created an interesting world for herself; it’s the inner life of an

artist coming to life, or simply creating the life of her dreams.

“I want to emulate a strong Western woman, the woman that is confident yet graceful, gives the men a run for their money, and maybe she happens to own a fancy ranch in Texas or Montana—and I can portray that through my leather work,” she said. An inner life, or dreams— whatever you call it, is the mother of invention and manifestation. “I can almost

be the person I want to be in my inner life,” she said.

Now her love of painting is reemerging.

Paige is just back from an intensive fourday plein air landscape painting course off the grid in Kananaskis with Arizona artist Mitch Baird.

“What's cool about my artwork is that I paint from my life experience. My dad, Dale Albrecht, was a full-time horse trainer who also qualified for the CFR in saddle bronc in the late '70s. My brother's a full-time horse trainer. Our family eats, breathes, and sleeps horses, so that's my main subject matter.

Because pretty much every painting is of my brother, I probably have to find a new model,” she laughs.

It’s been an unusual evolution for the artist. Each of her talents is exacting and takes years to master, from design to execution, painting and sewing, sketching and marketing.

Paige’s goal is to return once more to select trade shows. “I don’t want to lose that connection with my clients,” she said.

“I believe the majority of people buying artwork or high-end custom leather pieces are not buying on a whim—they are investing in you.” c

Embossed fringe bag with conchos

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35

TRAILBLAZERS

Val Haynes Born to be a Cowboy

BY ROB DINWOODIE

Valentine "Val" Haynes

It was the 1870s, and hungry miners sought their fortune at the height of the Gold Rush in the Cariboo. Seemingly overnight, towns sprang up, along with the need for resources, including beef.

South of the 49th parallel, dust rose along the Okanagan River as cattle were driven through the sagebrush along an old trail established by the Okanagan (Syilx) peoples.

At that time, the border crossing at Osoyoos, B.C. and Oregon Territory was a crude log cabin. Manned by a young boy and his father, the duo were ready to receive the drovers and their herds. The father, John Carmichael

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Canadian Cowboy Country October/November 2024

PEOPLE WHO SHAPED THE WEST

Haynes, an Irish immigrant, was appointed Judge, Customs Agent and Gold Commissioner by Governor James Douglas of the newly established province of British Columbia.

The boy, Valentine Carmichael Haynes, witnessed many such herds en route to the gold fields of Barkerville and beyond. Notable cattlemen and drovers like Ben Snipes (a.k.a. “Northwest Cattle King”), Jerome and Thadeus Harper of the famous Gang Ranch and Newman Squires (a.k.a. “King of the Range”) passed through. These men and related experiences, like his first cattle drive at eight years of age, would shape the young Val into the man he would become—the “last of the old-time cowboys.”

Like most privileged boys of that era, Val Haynes was sent to boarding school in Victoria to equip him for life following in his father’s footsteps—a high-ranking government official and an established rancher, owning over 3,000 head of cattle.

However, John Carmichael Haynes's sudden passing disrupted young Val's life.

His mother, Emily, took Val and his five siblings and relocated to England, where he continued his education. Despite these upheavals, Val's resilience and determination to return remained unshaken, fueled by his memories of the cattle drives and the wide-open range.

At 18, Val returned home to Canada to work as a cowboy for Thomas Ellis, who had purchased his father’s estate and ran the largest ranch in the South Okanagan. Later, the Ellis ranch was acquired by the Shatford brothers, who hired Val as a foreman.

Val was a seasoned cowboy, and his ability to spay heifers, a skill he had learned in England, was always in demand. Val began purchasing back land previously owned by his father and, over time, established himself as a significant rancher running his cattle under the historical “69” brand.

Val married Elizabeth Runnels of Colville, Washington. They met in Conconally, Wash, where “Lizzie” was an Indigenous interpreter during a trial for a native cattle rustler, “Cowboy Jimmy,” where Val was on the stand as a witness. Later, Val recalled that he was only shot at once when he was out on the range—and that was by Cowboy Jimmy.

The couple had one child, Alice, who married Louis Thompson. Together,

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Clockwise from top: Checking cattle; securing a load on a pack horse; checking the herd; buck and rail fence

they raised a family, giving Val eight grandchildren.

Some of Val’s daily routines included a 50-mile ride checking cattle and a brisk bath in any local body of water, regardless of the weather or season. His attire included a Pikes Peak cowboy hat, silk neck rag, and woolly chaps.

Val kept a diary containing a wealth of

“At 18, Val returned home to Canada to work as a cowboy...” information about ranching at the turn of the century. One entry tells of a time when his three-year-old cattle were driven from the Oliver ranges to Orville, Washington, to the Great Northern railhead. After the cattle were penned, the cowboys frequented one of the 17 saloons located in the cowtown.

Once the boys had oiled up their insides, they retired to a local bunkhouse where they’d sleep it off before heading home the

next day. Ever the jokester, Val would paint charcoal mustaches on the cowboys before riding back to his home south of Oliver.

A tradition Val repeated every year was trailing his weaned calves from the fall range in Oliver to the winter feed grounds near Swan Lake (now Vasseaux Lake) south of OK Falls on his birthday, December 21.

This tradition continued every year until his 87th birthday when he trailed 200 calves some 20 miles with the help of some of his grandsons.

Never one to focus any attention on himself, Val Haynes was known as a kind, caring man who supported the livestock industry and was always there to lend a hand to anyone in need. Val never participated in rodeo competitions, but there was not a cowboy in the South Okanagan better on a horse or with a rope. Today, Val’s great-greatgrandson is burning the “69” brand on good cattle, ensuring that Val's influence remains a vital part of the cattle industry.

Val crossed the Great Divide on February 21, 1963, and his final resting place in Osoyoos, B.C., aptly states, “Val Haynes — Cowboy.”c

37

WHAT WORKS FOR US

Water, Grass & Plains RAISING BISON ON THE 7H RANCH

BY TERRI MASON

Saying that handling bison is “different” from handling cattle is a BIG understatement. Each bison rancher has different methods for handling their herds, and this is what works for 7H Ranch.

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Canadian Cowboy Country October/November 2024

WHAT WORKS FOR US

cowboycountrymagazine.com

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— Interview with Aaron Horton “I always had cattle, but I bought my first bison in January of 2007 off my cousin, Frank Nuttall,” said Aaron Horton in a recent interview. “I bought 42 Plains Bison heifers.”

Traditional cattle ranching involves a fair amount of horse work; moving cattle, rounding up the herd, and generally involving extra help. Bison handling is… different.

“How I get them in is I wait for the weather to cooperate, I use feed and do it by myself,” he said. “That's how I handle them—I lead them, I don't chase them anywhere.”

40

“I get them in once a year to wean the calves—usually in March. I wait until they're a bit hungry, and it's storming a bit, and they'll come right in, following the tractor,” he said. “I should have about 100, 110 calves this year. I keep all my heifers—my butcher trade comes out of them,” he said.

“That's where I want to be. I used to have up to 280 beef cows, so I'm really undergrazed

this year. But I still have a handful of Speckle Park heifers I’m breeding. I like them because they’re different.”

Aaron doesn’t wean the bison calves; the cows do it for him. “Yes, the cows wean the calves in December/January or whenever.

We just pull the calves, so we know what we've got. And we grass them in different fields to keep them separate.” Once the cows

Canadian Cowboy Country October/November 2024

PREVIOUS PAGE PHOTO BY AMANDA FARNSWORTH; PHOTO COURTESY 7H RANCH

WHAT WORKS FOR US

PHOTOS COURTESY 7H RANCH (2X); TERRI MASON (1X)

WHAT WORKS FOR US and calves are separated, he opens the gate and the main herd returns lickety-split to the sandhills. He keeps the calves in the corral for a couple of weeks until they settle down and get used to stuff.

Handling bison (tagging, etc.) requires stout equipment; safety is paramount, and a sense of humour helps.

“A few years ago, I never got them weaned that spring, and the next year, I did two calf crops—the calf crop and the yearling crop. We put around 300 head through the chute in three hours,” he said.

On the day Aaron is processing the bison, he brings in about six or seven people. His help is experienced and raised around livestock. Experience with bison isn’t part of his criteria; he says, “Just anyone that wants to slide a gate open or closed.” He laughs and says jokingly, “I generally get help who are old, don’t drink too much, and don’t need a fancy lunch. Here, you get bison sausage on a bun.”

Currently, there are so many bison in North America (and Russia) that they are considered “domesticated” and in the same class as cattle. However, the crucial difference is that the survival instinct hasn’t been bred out of them as it has in most domestic cattle breeds.

“One of the hardest parts about raising bison,” said Aaron, “is counting them.

They're all the same colour, and the bison cows keep the calves on their offside,” he explained. “If you catch them going to water and they're all strung out, that's the best time. But it's hard to count calves.”

Calving season is also not tightly regimented because Aaron (and many bison breeders) don’t pull their bulls from the herd. “Mine calve whenever; they start April 21, they’ll have the bulk of them in May and early June, and I’ve had calves right into October,” he said. “But I think I cause that.

I’m feeding them so good in January/February to keep them home, that it gets the cows cycling.”

“Some breeders use all the technologies and supplements—and they'll pull their bulls. Mine get a block of blue salt if they're lucky,” he jokes. “Otherwise, it’s just native grass and water.”

The unusual amount of rain he has received in 2024 has helped his grass immensely. “I’ve got that needle and thread grass,” he said. “It’s two feet high and going to seed.”

cowboycountrymagazine.com

From top: Herd sires, Aaron Horton, cow with a new calf

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WHAT WORKS FOR US There is a saying in this part of the world, “We’re never more than three days away from a drought,” and the country has been suffering for almost eight years. “It’s been a long time since it went to seed, like in 2016. Before that, 2010,” said Aaron. This is hard country.

The sandhills are an amazing part of the world. “It’s fertile ground; it's just not meant to be farmed, but it’s great grazing,” said Aaron. “When we get the water.”

“This was the trouble I got into because of the seven, eight years of drought and because I got so overgrazed the ground wasn't holding in any moisture. So now I’m letting that grass come back, break down, make a cover on the ground, and then every 3/10ths of rain we get, it’ll hold it all,” he said.

We all know what a little rainwater can do. Aaron’s once-drought-ravaged pastures had many bare spots a year ago and are now boasting two-foot-tall grasses that have gone to seed and are shading the ground.

AT A GLANCE NAME: 7H Ranch Limited ESTABLISHED: 2007 OWNER: Aaron Horton NEAREST TOWN: Maple Creek, SK SIZE: 8,800 acres (3,600 ha) ELEVATION: 2,200 ft (670M) PRECIPITATION: 8 inches (200mm) BREED: Plains Bison / Speckle Park cattle HERD SIZE: approximately 250 head

Hours old bison calf

CATTLE BRAND: left rib The varieties of native grasses are vast, and that seed can lay dormant for years, waiting for water.

In the delicate ecosystem of the sandhills, the ranchers who learn and adapt are the ones who survive, and Aaron Horton comes from a long line of survivors. “I know I’m undergrazing, but as long as I’m getting the bills paid, that’s what works for us.” c

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Canadian Cowboy Country October/November 2024

PHOTO BY TERRI MASON

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WESTERN EVENTS

FALL CELEBRATIONS

CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIRS

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NOV 16, 2024 KAMLOOPS SCHOOL OF THE ARTS XMAS CRAFT FAIR

Abbottsford, BC maanfarms.com/pages/fall-at-the-farm

ALDOR ACRES PUMPKIN PATCH Langley, BC aldoracresfamilyfarm.ca/pumpkin-patch

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Pemberton, BC northarmfarm.com/u-pick

VANCOUVER ISLAND PUMPKIN PATCHES Saanich, BC vancouverislandview.com/ vancouver-island-pumpkin-patches/

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1390 9th Ave, Kamloops, BC facebook.com/ksacraftfair

NOV 2–3, 2024 FIRST CHANCE XMAS CRAFT SHOW Mary Winspear Centre, Sidney, BC firstandlastchance.ca

NOV 15–17, 2024 A HANDMADE CHRISTMAS Beban Park, Nanaimo, BC ahandmadechristmas.ca

NOV 7–10 AND NOV 14–17, 2024 MILLARVILLE CHRISTMAS MARKET Millarville Racetrack, Millarville, AB millarvilleracetrack.com/christmas-market

NOV 28 – DEC 15, 2024 EDMONTON CHRISTMAS MARKET Fort Edmonton Park 7000 143 St NW, Edmonton, AB yegxmasmarket.com

MID-NOV – DEC 8, 2024 BANFF CHRISTMAS MARKET 327 Railway Ave, Banff, AB banffchristmasmarket.com

NOV 15–17, 2024 LLOYDMINSTER CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR Exhibition Grounds, Lloydminster, AB lloydminsterchamber.com/news-events/ christmas-trade-expo

MID-NOV 1–DEC.1, 2024 INTERNATIONALCHRISTMAS MARKET Spruce Meadows 18011 Spruce Meadows Way SW, Calgary, AB sprucemeadows.com

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WESTERN EVENTS WILDLIFE & CONSERVATION

NOV 23, 2024 CHRISTMAS SPIRIT TRADESHOW Stockade Building, Swift Current, SK facebook.com/tradeshowsisters

DUCKS UNLIMITED CANADA EDMONTON DINNER & AUCTION 2024

NOV 22–23, 2024 SASKATOON FESTIVAL OF TREES

Woodvale Facility & Clubhouse, Edmonton, AB ducks.ca/how-to-help/events/

Western Development Museum 2610 Lorne Ave, Saskatoon, SK festival-of-trees.com

COWS AND FISH RIPARIAN MGM’T SOCIETY

DEC 20–21, 2024 BEEF PEN SHOW & COWBOY CHRISTMAS

Alberta cowsandfish.org/events/

Medicine Hat Exhibition Grounds mhstampede.com

NATURE CONSERVANCY OF CANADA

OCT 25–27, 2024 SIGNATURES OUR BEST TO YOU HANDMADE MARKET

natureconservancy.ca/en/what-you-can-do /events/

MEDICINE RIVER WILDLIFE CENTRE

Westerner Park, Red Deer, AB signatures.ca

OCT 31–NOV 3, 2024 FESTIVAL OF CRAFTS

NOV 28–DEC 1, 2024 SIGNATURES HOLIDAY MARKET

Stampede Park BMO Centre, Calgary, AB signatures.ca

RBC Convention Centre, Winnipeg, MB signatures.ca

NOV 22–24, 2024 SIGNATURES FALL INTO CHRISTMAS HANDMADE MARKET

DEC 14–15, 2024 BARKERVILLE OLDE FASHIONED CHRISTMAS

The Agri-food Hub & Trade Centre Lethbridge, AB signatures.ca

barkerville.ca/special-events/#events

DECEMBER 5–8, 2024 BUTTERDOME CRAFT SALE

NOV 22–25, 2024 MAPLE LEAF CIRCUIT FINALS

Butterdome, University of Alberta 87 Avenue and 114 Street, Edmonton, AB signatures.ca

Evraz Place, Regina, SK agribition.com

GUN SHOWS NOV 15–17, 2024 COLD LAKE GUN SHOW Agriplex Exhibition Cold Lake, AB huntmaniashows.com

DEC 7–8, 2024 EDMONTON (CAPITAL REGION) GUN SHOW Heritage Park, Stony Plain, AB facebook.com/groups/697626665127409/

OCT 19–20, 2024 PRINCE ALBERT ANTIQUE, COLLECTIBLE & GUN SHOW

NOV 8–10, 2024 OUR BEST TO YOU HANDMADE MARKET

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NOV 14–16, 2024 SIGNATURES OUR BEST TO YOU HANDMADE MARKET

DEC 5–14, 2024 NATIONAL FINALS RODEO

OCT 25–27, 2024 PRINCE GEORGE GUN SHOW

Thomas & Mack Center Las Vegas, NV prorodeo.com

Prince George Roller Dome Prince George, BC huntmaniashows.com c

International Trade Centre, Regina, SK signatures.ca

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Canadian Cowboy Country October/November 2024

PHOTO: SHANNON SWANSON

RODEO

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WESTERN EVENTS ROAD TO THE CFR

Blake Link

BAREBACK’S RISING STAR

BY TIM ELLIS

Blake Link on Outlaw Buckers 41 River Reflection at 2022 CFR on his way to winning the Canadian Novice Bareback Championship. Photo by Wildwood Imagery/Chantelle Bowman.

B

lake Link has been a rising star since first jumping on bareback horses as a 16-year-old in the Alberta High School Rodeo Association. Now, he’s hoping for a starring role on the pro trail.

“I’ve really got my act together on my riding,” offers the 23-year-old Maple Creek, Sask, cowboy. “I’ve been riding more consistent every time I nod my head and been able to pull cheque and after cheque.”

Those cheques had added up to $15,000 by early August, which had Link inside the top 10 of the Pro Rodeo Canada bareback standings.

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“I have been spending a lot more time on the spur board in the evenings,” said Link, who won the Canadian Cowboys Association championship in 2022.

“Just trying to get back to the basics and fundamentals.”

“I also started telling myself not to take it so seriously. Now, I’m coming to a rodeo to have fun, not thinking about making money or doing well. I’m getting on bucking horses because I enjoy it. It’s like if you’re going to play street hockey versus playing in a playoff game.”

There’s no doubt it’s been a breakout season for Link, who finished the 2023

campaign fourth in the CPRA’s bareback Rookie standings with just under $2,900 in earnings. He won his first pro rodeo in Taber in April, then followed that up with four more wins, including capturing his biggest cheque of the year at the SMS Equipment Pro Tour stop in Teepee Creek with the highest-marked ride of his pro career, an 86.5-point score to win $2,342.

His sophomore season on the pro rodeo trail also brought another highlight— his first trip on Ward Macza’s superstar draw, OLS Tubs Stevie Knicks at the Leduc Black Gold Rodeo.

“I thought about her a lot when I got the draw,” admits Link, who was 86 points to place fourth. “I probably didn’t ride her the best. I rode safe, but next time, I’m going to take the fight to her.”

“I feel like I’m riding the best I ever have.

When I first started, I rode in all of the amateur associations. I pretty much went wherever I could get on a bucking horse and get to as many rodeos as I could in a weekend. I think that really helped me. The more I got on, the more I improved.”

It was in the Foothills Cowboys Association where he collected his first championship buckle, winning the Novice Horse Riding title in 2018. The Alberta High School bareback championship came a year later before Link continued his rodeo career and schooling at the University of Saskatchewan where he captured the Canadian College Association title in 2022.

“Qualifying for the CFR was the goal for this season,” says Link, who won the Canadian Novice Bareback championship at the 2022 Canadian Finals Rodeo in Red Deer. “I have to just keep consistent and keep riding the way I am, and I think everything will all come together.” c

Canadian Cowboy Country October/November 2024

CLOWNIN’ AROUND | CRASH COOPER

ASH COOPER ART AND RANCH GALLERY

“Do you ever wake up in the morning and look at the mirror and think ….. that can’t be accurate?”

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COUNTRY COOKING

Harvest Recipes

PHOTO COURTESY TURTLE VALLEY BISON

Bison is a superb, protein-rich meat that sustained many of our ancestors for centuries. A scrumptious bison roast is the crowning achievement of any fall supper.

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Canadian Cowboy Country October/November 2024

COUNTRY COOKING

CARROT PIE Kitchen of Shannon McCutcheon

INGREDIENTS

• 1 tsp ginger • 1 tsp cinnamon • ¼ tsp cloves • ¼ tsp salt • 2 cups milk • 2 eggs • 1 tsp nutmeg • 1 cup brown sugar • 2 cups mashed carrots ‌

DIRECTIONS 1. Mix all ingredients together.

2. Bake in preheated 450˚ oven for 10

minutes then reduce heat to 325˚ and continue baking about 40 mintues longer, or until carrot custard is almost set.

FOOL PROOF PASTRY Kitchen of Barbara Wickheim

BISON ROAST WITH GARLIC

SHEET PAN ROASTED VEGETABLES

Courtesy Canadian Bison canadianbison.ca

Courtesy Shannon Swanson

INGREDIENTS

• 3–5lbs bison roast • ½ cup cooking wine or Italian dressing • 2 cloves of garlic cut into quarters • 1–12 oz container of beer • 2 small onions • 2 tbsp. Worcestershire or A-1 Sauce • 1 tsp dry mustard

PHOTOS: SHANNON SWANSON (X2)

DIRECTIONS

1. P epper all surfaces and sprinkle with garlic powder. Brown bison roast at HIGH temperature on BBQ or frying pan.

2. P lace all ingredients in a slow cooker or covered casserole. Add water to the level of the roast top.

3. C ook slowly for 6-8 hours or bake at 250° and cook 6-8 hours.

Tip* Due to its natural low fat content, a bison roast takes less time to cook than beef or a pork roast.

cowboycountrymagazine.com

INGREDIENTS

• 3 cups butternut squash cubes • 2 cups beet cubes • 20 medium brussel sprouts, trimmed and halved • 3 tsp oil • 1 tsp crushed garlic • 1 tsp salt • 1 tsp coarse ground black pepper • 1 cup feta cheese cubes (optional)

INGREDIENTS

• 5 cups flour • 1 tbsp brown sugar • 1 tsp salt • ½ tsp baking powder • 1 lb lard • ¾ cup cold water • 1 egg • 2 tsp vinegar

DIRECTIONS 1. S ift dry ingredients together in large bowl.

2. C ut in half of the lard & then the other half.

3. Combine water, egg & vinegar in small bowl and mix. Add to flour mixture.

4. Chill 40 minutes.

DIRECTIONS

1. P rep veggies, keeping beets separate.

2. T oss squash and brussel sprouts in a bowl with 2 tsp olive oil, salt and pepper. Spread in a single layer on a parchment lined sheet pan.

3. P lace beets into bowl and add 1 tsp oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Toss to coat and add to pan.

4. R oast at 400˚ for 20 minutes.

5. R emove from oven, add feta cubes (if desired) and return to the oven for another 15-20 minutes. Remove from oven and serve immediately.

49

COWBOY POETRY

I Know You’ll Miss This Man

BY BAXTER BLACK

The Lord spoke to the heavy hearts that stood with hats in hand “Your sadness pains me deeply and I know you’ll miss this man.

But, it’s true what you’ve been hearing, Heaven is a real place That’s no small consolation, you should use that fact to face …

The emptiness his parting left that seeps into your bones And draw on it to ease your pain, for he is not alone You see, all his friends are up here and all his loved ones, too ‘cause it wouldn’t be a heaven without each one of you.

And heaven for a Cowboy is just what you might expect It’s horses that need tunin’ up and heifers that need checked It’s long rides with a purpose and a code that lights the way And a satisfying reason to get up every day.

It’s the ranch he’s always dreamed of and never knew he’d find And if you think about it, you can see it in your mind Him, leanin’ in the saddle with his ol’ hat on his head Contentment set upon his face like blankets on a bed.

The leather creaks a little as he shifts there in the seat The bit chains give a jingle when his pony switches feet And you somehow get the feelin’ that he’s sittin’ on a throne A’ gazin’ out on paradise just like it was his own.

I can promise you he’s happy, though I know you can’t pretend You’re glad he made the journey, it’s too hard to comprehend The earthly way you look at things can never satisfy Your lack of understanding for the answer to the ‘Why?’

"I Know You'll Miss This Man" was written by American cowboy poet and veterinarian, Baxter Black (1945-2022).

He wrote over 30 books of poetry and fiction selling over two million books, CDs, and DVDs.

50

Canadian Cowboy Country October/November 2024

STOCK.ADOBE.COM/STEVE GADOMSKI

So, I offer this small comfort to put your grief to rest I only take the top hands ‘cause my crew’s the very best And I know it might seem selfish to friends and next of kin But I needed one more cowboy, and Buster fit right in.

LISTEN TO THE EXCITING COVERAGE OF THE CANADIAN FINALS RODEO WITH CFCW’S BROADCAST TEAM: Tim Ellis • Duane Daines • David Schmidt • Jenna Verhun • Dianne Finstad

Live from Rogers Place, Edmonton, October 2 - 5, 2024

RANCHING AND CONSERVATION:

A PARTNERSHIP FOR LIFE

When we lose a ranch, we lose nature. With a legacy of over 30 years working alongside Alberta’s ranchers, the Nature Conservancy of Canada is committed to helping you conserve the land you love.

Start Your Conservation Journey Today!

1-403-609-1482 | alberta@natureconservancy.ca

Photo by Leta Pezderic