A short history of welcome mats: how Alberta courted two types of newcomers on the grounds of demand and economic impact

By George Lee, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter The final vestiges of a campaign to attract droves of people and their skills to Alberta had all but disappeared from the UCP government’s agenda.  It was December 2024 and Alberta is Calling had, by most accounts, been far too successful for the province’s well-being. Detractors said it had been too much, too fast, … Read more

Standing up

It was a day of action on Friday, May 29. People across the province demanded action from the provincial government on affordability, public health care, and education, and made it clear that people stand with their neighbours, reject division, and believe immigrants deserve respect, dignity, and equity. This group was seen demanding action in front of the Claresholm constituency office … Read more

Nurses’ strike narrowly averted; agreement to be voted on

By Rob Vogt It literally went down to the last minute before auxiliary nursing care licensed practical nurses and health care aides were set to go on strike. The Alberta Union of Provincial Employees reported their negotiating team secured a tentative agreement with the employer, Alberta Health Services, just one minute before a strike was scheduled to begin. Members still … Read more

Candidates running for mayor of Claresholm make their pitch

By Rob Vogt The two men seeking to be mayor of Claresholm were front and centre last week, making their case for ratepayers to choose them.Challenger Lon Hall and incumbent Brad Schlossberger attended a candidates forum the Claresholm and District Chamber of Commerce and the Claresholm Local Press hosted at the Claresholm Community Centre on Oct. 8.It was moderated by … Read more