Business

Business Government Affairs Health & Wellbeing 

Pincher Creek pharmacist, seniors concerned as Alberta raises prescription drug co-pay cap

Posted on: Staff Writer

By Somya Lohia, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Alberta’s recent decision to raise the maximum co-payment for prescription drugs under its seniors and non-group health benefit plans could leave many Pincher Creek residents, particularly seniors on fixed incomes, feeling the financial strain. Starting July 1, the province has increased the co-payment cap by $1 per month for 10 months, rising from the … Read more…

Business Community Economic 

Via Rail names railcar ‘Jasper Park’ to honour community’s resilience

Posted on: Staff Writer

By Peter Shokeir, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter JASPER – Via Rail has named one of its train cars after Jasper National Park in honour of the community’s enduring spirit post-wildfire. Parks Canada CEO Ron Hallman joined officials with Via Rail and the Municipality of Jasper to celebrate the naming during a Wednesday (July 2) ceremony at the Jasper Train Station shortly … Read more…

Business Economic Government Affairs 

Keep away from wokeness and DEI, new minister warns municipalities

Posted on: Staff Writer

By George Lee, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Major municipalities should steer clear of creating drug injection sites, licensing body rub parlours and banning plastic straws, says the first municipal affairs minister from rural Alberta since January 2021. Using terms like woke and DEI, Dan Williams said municipalities of every size and type should concentrate on services taxpayers deserve and expect. “I … Read more…

Business Economic Government Affairs Political 

Alberta government PR branch moved under premier’s office

Posted on: Staff Writer

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…

Business Economic Political 

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

Posted on: Staff Writer

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…

Business Local News 

Session discusses use of artificial intelligence

Posted on: Staff Writer

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…

Business Economic 

Customers should prepare for possible mail delays

Posted on: Staff Writer

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…