Alberta government PR branch moved under premier’s office

By Brett McKay, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Alberta’s government has quietly transferred responsibility for its communications wing to the premier’s office, greatly expanding the size and budget of the province’s executive council. An April 29 Order in Council shifted responsibility for the province’s Communications and Public Engagement (CPE) department from Treasury Board and Finance to Executive Council, meaning Premier Danielle Smith is now … Read more

Grant applications accepted now for projects targeting family violence — especially among populations at elevated risk

By George Lee, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Groups helping Albertans in rural and remote areas deal with family violence have until June 24 to seek a share of $6 million in project funding. Designed to address family violence through projects informed by evidence and trauma, the grant program targets prevention, the rebuilding of lives, and early and crisis intervention. Along with … Read more

Session discusses use of artificial intelligence

By Rob Vogt It was an opportunity to learn more about what artificial intelligence actually is and how to use it.On Thursday, May 29, the Claresholm and District Chamber of Commerce partnered with Community Futures Alberta Southwest and the Regional Innovation Network of Southern Alberta to offer “Intro to AI for business” at the Claresholm Social Centre.Approximately 20 people attended … Read more

Customers should prepare for possible mail delays

Canada Post receives strike notices from CUPW Canada Post received strike notices from the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW), for both Urban and RSMC (Rural and Suburban Mail Carriers) bargaining units. The notices indicate that CUPW intends to begin strike activity as of Friday, May 23 at 12:00 am local time, unless the parties reach agreements before then. Operations continue … Read more

Jasper anticipating 20% less visitors than usual this summer

By Peter Shokeir, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter JASPER – With several campsites and hotels destroyed in last year’s wildfire, visitation is expected to be 20 per cent less than usual in Jasper this summer. While interim housing has helped alleviate the accommodation shortage, some rooms meant for visitors are still being used to house residents and contractors, while other properties are … Read more

New solar certificate programs aim to bolster skilled trades

By Natasha Bulowski, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Canada needs more people working in clean-tech trades, and a new solar installation course aims to make it as easy as possible to break into this line of work. George Brown College just launched new solar energy technician and solar panel installer certificate programs to prepare students for solar installation jobs. The two new … Read more

Chamber of commerce discusses year in review

By Rob Vogt The Claresholm and District Chamber of Commerce undertook a variety of activities over the past year.Approximately 30 people gathered at Casa Roma Pizza and Steakhouse for the chamber’s annual general meeting on March 26.President Jordie Bronson then lead everyone through a review of the chamber’s activities during the 2024-2025 year. March 2024The chamber held their annual general … Read more