Author: Staff Writer

Health & Wellbeing Political 

Better days lie ahead for rural health care, minister says

Posted on: Staff Writer

GEORGE LEE MACLEOD GAZETTE LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE Health-care understaffing, limited access to services and reduced emergency department hours — they’re features of rural life that Albertans should not be forced to endure, the health minister acknowledged Oct. 7. But Adriana LaGrange said her government is on the case through health-care delivery restructuring and a strategic document called Rural Health Care Action Plan … Read more…

Fort Macleod Political 

Alberta’s remodeled Victim Services Unit extends rural reach, minister maintains

Posted on: Staff Writer

By George Lee, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter A shift to regionalization extends victim services access to “every Albertan in every corner of the province,” says Mike Ellis, the minister of public safety and emergency services. Before the change, 14 areas of Alberta went unserved, Ellis wrote in an opinion piece his ministry distributed to media. “That means if you were a … Read more…

Agriculture Environmental 

The hidden cost of irrigation: PFAR’s annual fish rescue exposes gaps in Alberta’s environmental protections

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By Somya Lohia, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter In a unique blend of tradition and conservation, dozens of people gathered Saturday near Buffalo Rock Tipi Camp in Piikani Nation to participate in the annual Peigan Friends Along the River fish rescue. This drive, founded by Harley Bastien in 1990, aims to save fish trapped in the irrigation canal after water levels drop … Read more…

Environmental History 

Hidden heritage: Potential bison kill site under dog park in Pincher Creek

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By Somya Lohia, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter In the heart of Pincher Creek, a land parcel serves as a beloved community space featuring a picturesque walking trail and off-leash dog park where residents enjoy the tranquility of nature. However, beneath its surface lies a rich tapestry of history that remains largely unrecognized. According to town councillor David Green, this land may … Read more…

Economic 

Alberta the sole province where going electric won’t always save you money

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By Natasha Bulowski, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Installing a heat pump or switching from a gas to electric vehicle can save households money in every clean-energy scenario in every province — except in Alberta,according to a new report from Clean Energy Canada.  “Switching a fossil fuel-powered car for an EV saves money in every region of the country, in every scenario … Read more…