New RCMP pilot program helps with opioid addiction in Central Alberta

Since April 2024, the Alberta RCMP’s Community Safety and Well-being Branch (CSWB) has been piloting a health-focused program across parts of central Alberta to support individuals struggling with opioid addiction.

The Virtual Opioid Dependency Program (VODP) is a collaborative initiative between the Alberta RCMP, the Government of Alberta and Recovery Alberta, designed to provide early intervention, medical treatment and long-term support to those impacted by the opioid crisis.

Premier Smith visits rural Alberta to lend voice to local byelection candidate

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith is winning applause but also facing pointed questions from party members ahead of three byelections.

Smith, in her role as United Conservative leader, appeared at a town hall meeting attended by about 300 in Three Hills Monday.

She came with Tara Sawyer, who is running under the party banner in the June 23 byelection in the area.

Innisfail RCMP investigate arson in Raspberry Park

On Sunday, June 8, at around 3:34 p.m., Innisfail RCMP and Innisfail Fire Department responded to a bush fire in Raspberry Park in Innisfail. 

The fires were lit in numerous locations within the wooded area and are believed to be intentionally set. The Fire department was able to extinguish the fires and there were no injuries or damage to property.

The intentional lighting of fires poses a significant risk to public safety and the safety of our community. Uncontrolled fires along with current dry conditions can be catastrophic for a community.

Government failed to follow procurement, security rules with ArriveCan contractor

Federal organizations failed to follow procurement and security rules when awarding contracts to the company behind the controversial ArriveCan app, the auditor general said Tuesday.

The report on GCStrategies — one of several audits tabled in the House of Commons on Tuesday — says the company was awarded 106 contracts by 31 federal organizations between 2015 and 2024.

The maximum value of those contracts was more than $90 million but only $65 million was paid out.

Planning your Summer vacation? Check out the See More Canada Auction!

Summer’s almost here—time to plan that perfect getaway!

Before you book anything, explore the Best Western & Resorts See More Canada Online Auction. From relaxing prairie escapes to stunning coastal adventures in B.C. and Atlantic Canada, you’ll find incredible deals on hotels, dining, and activities across the country.

Whether you're dreaming of mountain views or ocean breezes, there’s something for every traveller—and every budget.

But don’t wait! Auction items start closing Wednesday morning, so now’s the time to bid.

Lacombe’s Echo Food Rescue honoured for reducing food waste

Echo Food Rescue of Lacombe wins Emerald Award for environmental excellence.

Echo Food Rescue has been named a recipient of an Emerald Award, presented by the Alberta Emerald Foundation.

The award celebrates environmental leadership and recognizes individuals and organizations making measurable, positive change in their communities.

For Echo Food Rescue, that change comes through food keeping it out of landfills and getting it onto people’s plates.

RD Council discuss Downtown parking and rezoning at Monday meeting

Red Deer City Council discussed a capital budget policy, rezoning bylaws, and Downtown parking among other topics. Here is a summary of the Monday, June 9th, Regular City Council meeting with a closed meeting followed by City Council’s open meeting. 

CLOSED:  

  • Habitat for Humanity 
  • Capstone Land Sale 
  • Legal Matter 

CONSENT AGENDA:  

Capital Budget Policy and Project Reconciliation 

Unique inclusive clothing swap coming to Red Deer

The Queer Neighbours Society of Red Deer (QNSRD) is holding its first free inclusive clothing swap Thursday, June 12 from 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. at the Pioneer Lodge.

The non-profit group advocates for all members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community in Red Deer and Central Alberta, and is hosting the event to provide, trade and swap clothing for those within the community.

Maia Johnson, a volunteer with QNSRD who came up with the idea, says the event is about finding clothing that feels comfortable and affirming.

Delburne student receives $120,000 scholarship

Delburne School student, Eythan Young, is the recipient of a coveted Schulich Leader Scholarship, worth $120,000. The scholarship will help Young in his studies at the University of Alberta, starting in the fall of 2025.

“I was thrilled to even be selected as my school’s nominee,” says Young. “And then late one evening when I was at home, I got an email. I opened it and it said I will receive this scholarship. My Mom started jumping for joy! We were so excited. It was unbelievable!”

Renewable cleanup rules making Alberta less competitive for investment: report

A report says new cleanup rules for renewable energy sites are hurting the competitiveness of Alberta's industry.

Business Renewables Centre-Canada analyzed the reclamation security requirements for renewables in 27 jurisdictions and found Alberta's are now the most costly. 

Under a code of practice for solar and wind projects published last week, the Alberta government says operators must provide an estimate for the cost of dismantling turbines and panels, removing underground concrete infrastructure, hauling waste away, replanting vegetation and other items.