Trades touted as solid rural paths to rewarding Alberta careers

By George Lee, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Opportunity knocks — right now — for rural Albertans willing to embark on trades and technology careers, Advanced Education Minister Rajan Sawhney said recently.  And the kicker is that those who choose apprenticeship, certificate or diploma programs won’t necessarily be forced to leave behind their home communities for the bright lights of Calgary or … Read more

Drowning deaths more common in the summer

By Justin Sibbet, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter A warm day on the water can quickly become a worst nightmare in mere seconds, but mere seconds may also prevent such a catastrophe. Next week is National Drowning Prevention Week, with July 25 being recognized as World Drowning Prevention Day. The World Health Organization’s (WHO) theme this year for World Drowning Prevention Day … Read more

Search and Rescue items stolen while training

By Jesse Boily, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter While out on life-saving training, the Grande Prairie Technical Search and Rescue (GPTSR) team was the victim of the theft of “multiple items essential for emergency response.” The theft occurred at the 17.5 KM Canfor Bridge Wednesday, July 10, between 7:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. “It is truly disheartening to have items stolen from … Read more

Alberta’s general surgery is at a tipping point, with lives on the line: AMA

By Mia Parker, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter According to a July 8 Alberta Medical Association news conference, Alberta’s general surgeons are facing increasing human resources shortages, which are limiting their ability to provide urgent, life-saving care to patients. This news conference marked the start of the AMA’s general surgery information campaign, seeking to inform the public of the issues faced in … Read more

Albertans believe health care is in crisis, survey says

By Brett McKay, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter A survey of Canadians’ health care concerns reveals nearly three-quarters of Canadians think health care in their province is in a state of crisis, and the majority think governments aren’t doing enough to fix workforce shortages. The poll was commissioned by the Canadian Health Coalition ahead of the annual meeting of the 13 provincial … Read more

Who are the Hells Angels, Lethbridge’s newest gang?

By Justin Sibbet, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter It has recently become common knowledge the Hells Angels have arrived in Lethbridge, bringing mixed reviews along with them. Some on social media have said they are eager to see the outlaw biker gang on the streets of the city, but others have shared a less positive outlook. Mike Tucker, a spokesperson for ALERT, … Read more

New wildlife crossings planned between Canmore and Exshaw on Highway 1A

By Jessica Lee, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Two new wildlife crossings are in the planning stage for Highway 1A between Exshaw and Canmore. The Alberta government’s new animal-vehicle collision safety program website shows a map of existing and future wildlife crossing and fencing projects, with a newly planned underpass east of Elk Run Boulevard outside Canmore and an overpass adjacent to … Read more