Overdoses remain a threat despite positive trends

By Justin Sibbet, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Following a record-high number of overdose fatalities in the province last year, the funeral processions are not stopping. Like the province, Lethbridge also saw a yearly record rate of fatal overdose victims, with 124 total deaths in 2023. This is up dramatically from 78 deaths in 2022 and 70 the year before that. Dr. … Read more

New studies reveal high risk to at-risk trout from Kananaskis logging

By Jessica Lee, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter A planned logging operation in the upper Highwood River watershed threatens critical habitat for at-risk trout species, raising concerns over increased erosion, sedimentation and altered stream flows that could harm sensitive fish populations. A new report from the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS) and Freshwater Research Ltd. found lumber company West Fraser’s 1,100-hectare … Read more

Reasons for voter ID changes unclear, fuel distrust in elections, say Alberta municipal leaders

By Brett McKay, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Leaders of two organizations representing Alberta’s municipalities say the reasons for changes to voter ID requirements in Bill 20 are unclear and could inadvertently fuel distrust in the election process. Proposed changes in Bill 20 would remove vouching as a form of voting ID, except in cases of confirming an elector’s physical address if … Read more

Pincher Creek may see new energy plant

By Mia Parker, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Captus Generation is looking to build a natural gas-firing plant with incorporated carbon capture and sequestration in the MD of Pincher Creek.  The hub would be constructed on land purchased in Division 1 of the MD of Pincher Creek, situated directly above a depleted natural gas reservoir with wells travelling over three kilometres below … Read more

Willow Creek Composite high school sends off grads in style

By Rob VogtIt was a day to celebrate 12 years of hard work and achievement.Willow Creek Composite High School held their graduation ceremony on Saturday, June 1, sending the grads off in style.Valedictorian Anderson Leishman used his experiences as a distance runner in his valedictory address.“I love to run,” he said.Recently, he competed in his first ultramarathon, which is any race greater … Read more

Request made to fund seniors support position

By Rob VogtWith grant funding quickly coming to an end for a half-time position at Claresholm and District Family and Community Support Services, a request has been made for the Town of Claresholm to start funding that position.At town council’s May 27 meeting, Gabrielle Kirk of the Claresholm Coordinated Response to Elder Abuse Coalition, appeared as a delegation.She explained she … Read more