Claresholm Under-9 hockey tournament lights up the arena

By Rob Vogt Hockey teams from across Southern Alberta descended on the Claresholm Arena for a tournament this past weekend hosted by the Claresholm Under-9 Thunder.The Thunder hosted two teams from Coaldale; two teams from Airdrie; Foothills; and Lethbridge.The focus in U-9 hockey is learning the game so the hockey was four-on-four with a goalie and two 24-minute periods; continuous … Read more

Principal of Stavely Elementary School bids fond farewell

By Rob Vogt Leanne Watson has come full circle in her education journey.The principal of Stavely Elementary School started her teaching career in Stavely and has finished it there.She has accepted a position with the Alberta Teachers Association, and her last day was this past Monday, Jan. 5.However, her last day with students was Dec. 19, capping an emotional final … Read more

New rules governing coal development in the works

By Rob Vogt The provincial government has announced it is developing new rules to govern the exploration and development of coal.The province recently announced the Alberta Coal Industry Modernization Initiative, that will prohibit mountaintop removal mining and ban new open-pit mines in the foothills, while increasing coal royalties.It was stated this initiative will guide coal mining practices with a goal … Read more

Town draft budget carries six percent increase

By Mickey Dumont Local Journalism Initiative Reporter A Town of Claresholm draft operating and capital budget for 2025 proposes a 6.045 percent tax increase.“This is an interim budget to allow the town to continue to operate into the new year,” said Jennifer Place, town director of corporate services, in introducing the financial document at the Dec. 9, town council meeting.“The … Read more