My Friday cocktail post was lost due to computer problems on the site.
I had most of it written, and it was about AI.
My thinking is that AI, agronomy, and access to information from around the world will become extremely valuable tools in agriculture. Imagine seeing something a neighbor is trying and being able to get real information quickly about whether it works, why it works, and where it has been tried before.
The big question is whether large agriculture companies will buy and control this information, or whether some will try to manipulate it with biased or even fake data. That risk definitely exists. Still, right now, trying AI has been very useful for me.
For example, I used it to create a legal will for Saskatchewan. Instantly, there was a solid framework. Of course, you can’t just stop there—you still need to provide all the details a lawyer would require: assets, instructions, executors, and the full picture. But it gives you a strong starting point.
It’s similar with soil test analysis or agronomy decisions. AI can help, but you need to know the right questions to ask. If you do, it can point you in directions you may not have considered.
It also helped me get more out of my Operation Center with Deere equipment, showing how to turn the data we already collect into something that actually helps make better decisions on the farm.
So yes, I think AI will become a tool that some farmers use very effectively. Others will mostly use it as a replacement for Google. The difference will come down to how well people learn to ask questions and apply the information.
Markets were down hard this morning after Trump suggested he might delay a meeting or trip with China. That alone was enough to shake the markets. For Canadians who think the U.S. or American politics don’t affect what we do here—you’re dreaming. The reality is that the U.S. economy and its leadership have a huge impact on global markets, including agriculture.
Another issue worth paying attention to is discussion around Canadian equity and the idea of a potential “death tax.” If something like a 25% tax on equity were ever implemented, it could theoretically wipe out the national debt—but it would be done on the backs of hard-working Canadians.
Have a great week. See you Friday, live from the Cayman Islands . I love it there.
If I missed any other news from last week please add.
ah Friday.
Cherry and Rum Coke Slushy.
Ingredients (makes about 2-3 servings)
• 4 oz rum (white rum for cleaner taste, or spiced/dark rum like Captain Morgan for warmer notes)
• 1-2 oz cherry liqueur (optional but recommended for extra cherry flavor; grenadine works as a substitute if you don’t have it)
• 1 can (12 oz) Coca-Cola (chilled; regular or Cherry Coke for even more cherry punch)
• 1½–2 cups frozen pitted cherries (fresh or bagged; adds natural sweetness and slushy texture)
• 2–2½ cups ice cubes (adjust for desired thickness)
• For garnish: whipped cream, maraschino cherries, and a straw
Instructions
1. Add the rum, cherry liqueur (if using), Coca-Cola, frozen cherries, and ice to a high-powered blender.
2. Blend on high until smooth and slushy (about 30–60 seconds). Stop and sc**** down the sides if needed. If it’s too thick, add a splash more Coke; if too thin, add extra ice.
3. Pour immediately into chilled glasses (lowball or tall glasses work great).
4. Top with a dollop of whipped cream and a maraschino cherry (or two skewered on top for fun).
5. Serve right away while it’s nice and frozen!
Comment