Al Cherny, Canada’s Favourite Fiddler

and in magazine issue

He was born Alexander Peter Chernywech November 1, 1932, but before he left his prairie home of Medicine Hat, Alta., he was already on the trail that would take him across Canada and around the world as Canada’s favourite fiddler, the legendary Al Cherny. As a child, Chernywech received a violin from his father and …

Heel Chains & Jingle Bells

and in magazine issue December 2019/January 2020

The feed sleigh bobs are frozen down It’s time to jack them loose Put warm grain bags upon the seat To warm my old caboose The lines are stiff, but soon they’ll thaw As through my mitts they slide Whoa to stop, hup to go There’s no more smoother ride Than sliding across the snow-packed …

Tom Wraight: A Teamster’s Teamster

and in magazine issue December 2019/January 2020

“There’s nothing I like to see better than a dark dappled grey or a shiny black team,” said enthused legendary horseman Tom Wraight, reflecting on his eight-decade relationship with Percheron draft horses. “Over the years, I’ve enjoyed their spirit, their wonderful disposition and their unequalled willingness to please,” Tom explained of his love for the …

Cowboy Poetry: A Veteran

and in magazine issue October/November 2019

He was getting old and paunchy, and his hair was falling fast, And he sat around the Legion, telling stories of the past. Of a war that he once fought in, and the deeds that he had done, In his exploits with his buddies; they were heroes, every one. And ‘tho sometimes to his neighbours, …