Lacombe

Researchers are urging Canada, United States and Mexico to take immediate action to save the monarch butterfly as the migratory insect faces a growing risk of extinction amid habitat loss. 

The iconic butterfly's population has decreased by around 80 per cent in the past two decades, says the paper published in the journal Current Biology, with the loss of breeding habitat cited as the main reason behind the sharp decline.

The Assembly of First Nations' annual general meeting next week in Winnipeg will set the stage — and the tone — for engaging with governments on major infrastructure projects.

National Chief Cindy Woodhouse Nepinak says politicians will be paying close attention to the resolutions chiefs pass related to the federal major projects legislation. The bill, which passed in June, has seen strong opposition from some First Nations leaders and community members who fear it won't respect their rights.

Farmers are working on bringing in the harvest as the weather cooperates.

Last week's hot, dry weather also brought its share of thunderstorm activity with strong winds and hail which caused some lodging in crops. The Nipawin area had the most rainfall, with 42 mm, followed by the North Battleford and Consul areas with 30 mm and 28 mm, respectively. A number of other areas around the province are also seeing some scattered showers.

The second annual Ignite the Fire camp gave women and gender-diverse individuals a chance to step into the boots of a firefighter last weekend.

More than 20 participants joined instructors from Red Deer County Fire Services for three days of hands-on training, from handling fire extinguishers and hydrants to hose operations, live fire scenarios, and vehicle extrication.

The Labour Day long weekend marks the unofficial end of summer, and communities across Central Alberta are hosting events to celebrate.

From food festivals and live music to outdoor markets and family-friendly activities, there’s plenty to do before fall routines begin.

Here’s a roundup of events happening in the region:

Friday, August 29

• Taste of Clive & Movie in the Park – Centennial Park, Clive

Agriculture and Irrigation Minister RJ Sigurdson has announced an increase in the lending limit on the Feeder Associations Loan Guarantee Program (FALGP).

Locally owned feeder associations utilize the program for low-interest financing backed by a government guarantee. Through the program feeder associations help livestock producers get financing to buy animals and grow their herds.

Producer, Dustin Lamb says the program played a huge part in his decision to return to the family farm and will be instrumental in keeping it going.

The Lacombe Police Service, one of Alberta’s oldest municipal police forces, is celebrating 125 years of serving the community.

A community barbecue was held Friday at the detachment, drawing more than 200 people. Proceeds from the event went to Lacombe Victim and Witness Services, which provides support to victims of crime and connects them with community agencies.

Chief Jason Dobirstein, who has led the service since mid-June, says the anniversary is a proud moment both professionally and personally.

Police have charged a man with three counts of aggravated assault for stabbings at the Calgary Stampede last month.

Police say they identified the 18-year-old following an extensive investigation that included witness interviews and camera footage.

Officers executed a search warrant of the suspect's house and seized a folding knife and clothing they say believe are consistent with the stabbings.

The man is scheduled to appear in court next week.

Three males were stabbed in an area of the Stampede midway, including two 18-year-olds and one 15-year-old.

Heading into the long weekend, fire restrictions and bans are now in place in some parts of Central Alberta as the heat warning continues.

A city-wide fire ban has been issued in Red Deer due to dry conditions and high temperatures.

The ban is effective immediately and suspends all existing fire permits.

Prohibited activities include:

• Fires using charcoal, briquettes or wood.

• Any open flame, including outdoor fires, torches, displays, and open burns.

Permitted activities include:

The JJ Collett Natural Area Foundation is appealing to the public for information following a break-in and theft at the site last week.

According to the foundations social accounts, someone entered the park (located just north of Lacombe) cut locks on the gate and a storage container and stole a bobcat, along with tools and chainsaws.

The stolen bobcat is described as a 2008 220 diesel utility vehicle, serial number A59Z12845.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Jack at 403-588-0597 or the Ponoka RCMP detachment.