Take a drive on the wild side: province unveils bighorn licence plate to support conservation

By: George Lee, Local Journalism Initiative ReporterSource: The Macleod Gazette Alberta’s iconic bighorn sheep officially hit the road this month, thanks to a fundraising licence plate that features the work of a renowned Grande Prairie artist. Three rams backdropped by Mount Lougheed are highlighted in a design that celebrates Alberta while raising money for conservation, the province announced Tuesday. “The … Read more

Rural isolation, stigma compound trauma for sexual assault survivors, cabinet minister says

By George Lee, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Travel distances and the stifling quiet of stigma make sexual assault especially dangerous for rural Albertans, a cabinet minister acknowledged in a recent interview. Commenting on a funding announcement of nearly $21 million under his ministry, Searle Turton said: “It just breaks my heart when I hear that in the past survivors were feeling … Read more

Policy on artificial intelligence adopted by town

By Rob VogtClaresholm town council has approved a policy governing the use of artificial intelligence in town operations.The decision came at council’s Aug. 17 meeting, after they reviewed a report from administration and heard a presentation from Patrick Gaede, the town’s municipal intern.The report stated that as artificial intelligence continues to develop, administration has determined a policy is required to … Read more

Stavely amateur rodeo crowns winners

By Rob VogtThere is nothing like watching rodeo outdoors in the summer sunshine.The 64th Stavely amateur rodeo took over the outdoor arena on Saturday afternoon, Aug. 22.When the smoke cleared, the winners were:Barrel racing, eight and under• Callahan PhillipsBarrel racing, 9 to 14 years of age• Rykyn ParkerLadies barrel racing, 15 and older• Willow KingsmithBoys steer riding, 14 and under• … Read more

Hail storm pelts town

By Rob VogtThe early warning system activated just after 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 11, setting off cell phones all over town – a hailstorm was coming to Claresholm.A few minutes later, Mother Nature unleashed her wrath on the entire community.Golf-ball-sized hail powered by high winds smashed windows in buildings and vehicles, ripped vinyl siding, dented vehicles and buildings, blew … Read more

It’s a fair

Fair Days took over Claresholm from Aug. 6 to 9, offering something for everyone over the four days. Clockwise from top left are Kaydie Detmers and Gia Sabey playing one of the newspaper games on Thursday night to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Claresholm Local Press; Willow Skinner having fun in Amundsen Park on Saturday; Ernie Ling throwing a … Read more