Okotoks

One of two men jailed last year for their roles in the Coutts, Alta., border protest has been granted bail while he appeals his conviction and sentence.

An Alberta appeal court judge says Chris Carbert does not pose a threat to public safety and is unlikely to commit a criminal offence if released from custody.

Last fall, a jury found Carbert and Anthony Olienick guilty of mischief over $5,000 and possession of a weapon dangerous to the public peace for their role in the blockade.

They were each given prison sentences of 6 ½ years. 

With the hot temperatures in areas of Southern Alberta this week, a local animal shelter is offering tips on how to help your pet beat the summer heat.  

Heaven Can Wait Animal Rescue Foundation took to social media encouraging pet owners to shift walking and outdoor times to cooler hours of the day, as pavement and asphalt can become hot and burn paws.   

One of Okotoks' biggest events of the summer is moving to a new location this year.

The 13th annual Taste of Okotoks is coming up on July 19 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., but it won't be held along Elizabeth Street as in previous years.

Due to ongoing construction on North Railway Street, this year’s event will instead take place at the Arts and Learning Campus Plaza on Riverside Drive.

The Town cited several reasons for the move, including public safety, reduced disruption for downtown businesses, and improved traffic flow during the event.

Claresholm Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) is working to address housing insecurity within the community.  

Over the past four years, the FCSS has seen an increase in residents accessing services to find appropriate and affordable housing.  

The FCSS, with assistance from the Rural Development Network (RDN), organized a survey to gain a better understanding of housing insecurity to find solutions.  

Alberta's government is seeking advice to address violence and aggression in schools.

Education Minister Demetrios Nicolaides says it's a serious problem as learning disruptions and mental health concerns are becoming more and more common.

Nicolaides says a team of 20 education system officials and teachers will develop potential policy options and solutions over the next six months.

He says some of the recommendations could be implemented as soon as the fall.

A prop from Heartland was left in High River.

Last week, the Town of High River was transformed into a film set for an episode of Heartland.

The scenes were filmed in various areas around town, including George Lane Memorial Park.

After filming wrapped up, the crew packed up and moved on, leaving behind an out-of-place sign.  

Foothills County is advising motorists of an upcoming road closure.  

Starting July 2, 210 Ave W between 240 St W and 256 St W will be closed as construction of a new intersection begins.  

The road is expected to reopen at the beginning of August.  

Environment and Climate Change Canada issued a heat warning for areas of Foothills County, Vulcan County, and Siksika Nation.   

Daytime high temperatures between 29°C and 35°C combined with overnight lows near 14°C are expected to begin today (June 30).  

The affected areas include:  

Foothills Co. near Blackie  

A byelection has been called in the federal riding of Battle River--Crowfoot, where Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre is hoping to win a seat in the House of Commons.

Prime Minister Mark Carney has set Aug. 18 as the date for the vote.

Poilievre, who represented the Ottawa-area riding of Carleton for more than 20 years, lost to Liberal MP Bruce Fanjoy in the April 28 election.

Damien Kurek resigned his seat earlier this month to make way for the Conservative leader's return to Parliament.

Several facilities will be closed in High River for Canada Day.  

On Tuesday (July 1), High River’s Town Hall, Family and Community Support Services (FCSS), Greater Foothills Family Centre, Public Works, the Recycling Centre, and the Bob Snodgrass Recreation Complex will be closed.