Lacombe

The RCMP has eased its policy on cannabis use by members, saying simply they must be fit for duty when reporting for work. 

The new substance use policy replaces a 2018 one that required front-line officers and many other employees in "safety-sensitive" positions to refrain from recreational cannabis use for four weeks before duty.

The change, implemented earlier this month, brings the Mounties in line with many other police forces on employee pot use.

The village of Ste-Pétronille, Que., is used to receiving attention from outsiders. Tourists flock to the hamlet at the tip of picturesque Orleans Island to see its French colonial architecture and enjoy views of the Quebec City skyline across the St. Lawrence River.

UPDATE: Police say Shawn Murphy has been located safe. 

Original post: 

Lloydminster RCMP is requesting the public’s assistance in locating missing 39-year-old male, Shawn Murphy. Shawn was last seen in Lloydminster on Jan. 12, 2024 at 5:15 p.m.

When last spoken to, Shawn mentioned the possibility of traveling to Red Deer and was driving an early 2010s white Buick 4-door sedan. Lloydminster RCMP is worried for his well-being and would like to speak with him.

Shawn is described as:

Remember back not that long ago when community came together at Farmer Brown's farmyard for his auction sale, and two auction rings would rotate throughout the yard, the larger equipment featured in one ring, and the smaller pallets and bundles in the second ring?

And who can forget the conversations with your neighbors over the burger, pie, and coffee! Or a friend you haven't seen for some time!  "How's it goin'? How're the kids?"

Covid-19 changed all that!

The Red Deer & District Chamber of Commerce reviewed the proposed 2024 City Operating and Capital Budgets and have concluded that the City’s growth in expenditures are unsustainable. The Chamber believes the budget will have significant impacts on the Business Community. 

Nominations are closing soon for the Citizen of the Year awards in Sylvan Lake. 

The award is given to individuals who live or have lived in Sylvan Lake and have made significant contributions to the community that have improved the quality of life for others. 

Paws and Claws Animal Rescue Foundation is encouraging central Albertans to open their homes to foster pets. 

The number of active foster homes has decreased to nearly a dozen, Volunteer Janet Sigurdson says.  

“Foster homes are an integral part of our rescue operations,” the Paws and Claws Animal Rescue Foundation website says. “The more homes we have available, the more animals we can say yes to in their time of need.” 

City of Red Deer Mayor, Ken Johnston has released the following statement about the passing of Jack Donald, a local entrepreneur, philanthropist, and community builder. 

Yesterday (January 18, 2023), Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) hosted Canadian icon Chris Hadfield as the 30th speaker of its prestigious Perspectives: Canada in the World speaker series. The sold-out event marked the first signature event celebrating RDP’s 60th Anniversary.

The Capstone redevelopment in the City of Red Deer has just had its first residential ground-breaking.  

A five-story, 62-unit residential development is being constructed on Alexander Way, west of Carnival Cinemas. The building is valued at $20 million and will offer one and two bedroom options for rent.