By Scott Hayes, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Jasper National Park has confirmed that the first black bear sighting occurred locally on Tuesday, April 2 in the area between Old Fort Point and Jasper Park Lodge. This report is on par with the first sighting last year, which occurred on March 31, 2023. “Spring brings important changes to the landscape and to … Read more…
By George Lee, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter What if you showed up for an Alberta wildfire and your water source was frozen over? That was just one of the many challenges crews faced last year in a long, arduous and record-breaking season that burned a combined area the size of Prince Edward Island – times four. Todd Loewen, the minister of … Read more…
By Rob VogtLooks can be deceiving.The recent heavy snowfall has provided some moisture, but this area is still in drought, and the Town of Claresholm’s water restrictions are still in effect.The town gets its water from the Pine Coulee Reservoir west of Stavely, and Alberta Environment and Protected Areas has already started to fill the reservoir.“The reality is they need … Read more…
By Rob VogtThe Stavely Fire Department has a new fire chief, who brings a wealth of knowledge to his new role.Ben Blakeley was officially appointed chief on March 19 by Stavely town council, but has been a member of the department for five years.Born in Montreal, Blakeley moved to Calgary where he earned experience in a variety of fields.He has … Read more…
By Rob VogtThe Municipal District of Willow Creek recently hosted an open house to provide the public an update and answer questions about the Granum Stormwater Management Plan.The open house was held at the drop-in centre in Granum on April 2, and led by Craig Pittman, the M.D.’s director of infrastructure.It attracted more than 20 people interested in the project.In … Read more…
By Rob VogtSome times ideas come from the strangest places.A good example is how Elizabeth Trofimenkoff (née Pedersen) came up with the idea for her debut novel “A Kiss of the Siren’s Song”.The Claresholm native wrote the fantasy-romance story after a conversation with a friend.Trofimenkoff was chatting with her friend after she sent her some videos, and suggested her friend … Read more…
By Rob Vogt The Town of Claresholm is preparing for another spring and summer where water conservation measures will again have to be adopted.At its March 25 meeting, Claresholm town council discussed the water situation after a report from administration.Abe Tinney, the town’s chief administrative officer, explained the town is still in a water shortage and Stage 3 of its … Read more…