The class of 2020 includes a communications professional and a former federal ag minister
By Diego Flammini
Staff Writer
Farms.com
The Saskatchewan Agricultural Hall of Fame class of 2020 includes a former politician, cattle breed developers and an ag communications professional.
Adele Buettner founded AgriBiz Communications in Saskatoon, Sask. in 1993 to serve the marketing and communication needs of the industry.
Her business grew from a one-person operation into one with multiple employees and an extensive client list that includes the Western Canadian Wheat Growers Association, Pulse Canad and the Canadian Cattlemen's Association.
She was shocked to receive the phone call about her induction.
“When (the hall of fame) called me right before Christmas, I was surprised,” she told Farms.com. “I had no idea my name was being considered, so I’m certainly very honoured.”
The other inductees include the Honourable Gerry Ritz, who was the MP for Battlefords-Lloydminster from 1997 to 2017 before serving as federal ag minister for eight years.
Eileen and William Lamont, who developed the Speckle Park cattle breed, are also destined for the hall of fame.
John Feige, who promoted beef genetics around the world, and Jack Hay, who helped develop the Seager Wheeler Pedigreed Seed Show and served on multiple industry boards, round out the class of 2020.
Being mentioned alongside those industry leaders is exciting, Buettner said.
“When I look at who I’m with this year, it will be an honour to share the stage with them,” she said. “The inductees also help show how diverse our industry is.”
Reed Andrew, chairman of the Saskatchewan Ag Hall of Fame, agrees.
“This year’s class show how strong Saskatchewan agriculture has been,” he said. “And it also represents different areas of Saskatchewan agriculture and how it has been promoted globally.”
The induction ceremony takes place April 18 at the Western Development Museum. Ticket information will be coming soon.
Farms.com extends its congratulations to the inductees and their families!
Karen Pidskalny Photography photo