Anybody who knows me well, knows I am not usually at a loss for words. Well, as I am trying to type my message this morning just before a print deadline, I find myself feeling that exact thing – a loss for words. Not sure what to say or in this case type. Ninety nine percent of the time I am a cheerleader of sorts for everyone around me, I truly try and point out even in the crappiest of days – “accentuate the positives,” you can always find something good even on the darkest of days. So my cheerleader message to all my loyal readers this morning is – we are in this together, be smart, follow the rules the best you can and we will be more humble and appreciative of every blessing we have on the flip side of this nasty virus.
A special note of thanks to Pastor Neil, who I asked if he could offer a few words of reassurance during these uncertain days. He was able to take a portion of his sermon from March 22nd so I could share with you, see page 19
Of course in this edition there are stories about how COVID 19 is and will affect the agriculture sector, plus extensive coverage from Manitoba Swine Seminar. In addition there is a follow up from Cramer Ag Expo which was held back on February 13th. Congratulations to Butte Colony who took home top honours in the carcass competition. However, like in previous years the charities were the biggest winners of the day.
Included within in this issue is our annual readership survey. You will notice that in reflection of current events I asked a few more personal questions. Yes, I want to verify that Prairie Hog Country is still your “go to” magazine for the latest hog news and information, but right now I want to make sure that your farm and family are coping the best you can.
Once again I am on the board of directors for Alberta Pork Congress. We had a conference call meeting, which seems to be the new normal for any meetings, even my Church Council meeting last week was help over the phone. On said call after much discussion we decided to cancel the 2020 Alberta Pork Congress, which was to be held June 10 &11. At the time we made the decision Alberta Governments allowed no more than 50 people at a gathering, which as of when I am typing this has been reduced to 15. I, along with others on the board feel bad we are taking away an opportunity to meet and mingle with fellow producers and industry people. However in interest in safety we felt it was the correct decision. So mark your calendars for June 9 & 10 2021, for next year’s installment of Alberta Pork Congress.
The AFAC Livestock Conference which was to be held in Olds Alberta back in mid-march, still took place. While in a different format, it was held as a Virtual conference, which was great as people were still able to get their message out to attendees.
Some of you might remember Kona Hawk Farm, which I visited a couple years ago while visiting my folks on the big island. At that time he had three pigs, I heard while on a recent trip there that he has expanded. So hopefully on my next trip to the islands I can go back and see his bigger operation. After all doesn’t everybody go to Hawaii to check out the latest in hog farms?
As always, I am only a phone call or email away. Prairie Hog Country, Box 5536, Leduc, Alberta T9E 2A1, 780.986.0962, fax 780.980.9640 or email: hogcountry@shaw.ca
Stay safe and stay healthy. Talk to you in June. •