Cochrane

A flurry of meetings, briefings and updates has led up to tonight's non-statutory public hearing on YMCA Calgary’s proposed operational takeover of the SLS Centre.

The meeting, set for 5:30 p.m., comes amid rising tensions, largely fuelled by concerns raised by the Cochrane Curling Club (CCC) about the future of the On The Rocks lounge and whether the YMCA’s model is the right fit for the multi-use recreational facility.

For Alice Zeng, graduating from Springbank Community High School isn’t just the end of a chapter, it’s a celebration of a high school career filled with involvement, achievement, and heart.

The 18-year-old was recently named valedictorian for the Class of 2025, an honour that came as a surprise to her, despite encouragement from those around her.

“Everyone around me sort of thought it was going to be me,” said Zeng. “But I was like, no, it’s not, there’s always a chance it’s going to be someone else.”

Residents in and around Cochrane are now under an Air Quality Warning, as smoke from wildfires continues to impact the region, significantly reducing visibility and air quality.

Environment and health officials say the situation has worsened from a previous advisory, with conditions now posing a health risk to all residents, regardless of age or health status, especially during periods of heavy smoke.

Ottawa’s efforts to prepare the country for the impacts of climate change have stumbled out of the gate, Canada’s environment commissioner said Tuesday.

In a new report, Jerry DeMarco concluded the National Adaptation Strategy was not effectively designed, did not prioritize Canada’s climate change risks and only established one of its three components since its release in 2023.

The federal government is moving to shore up a historically weak summer job market for students — even as one economist argues tough employment prospects for young people suggest broader softness in the job market.

Statistics Canada shone a light on the difficult employment prospects for students heading back to school this fall in its May jobs report last Friday.

Roughly one in five returning students aged 15 to 24 was unemployed in May, the agency said. The last time the jobless rate for students was this high outside the pandemic was in May 2009.

The RCMP’s world-renowned Musical Ride is returning to Alberta this summer, bringing its display of tradition, precision, and pageantry to 20 communities across the province, including several in the Cochrane area.

Up to 32 RCMP officers and their horses will perform a series of intricate drills and formations choreographed to music—an event that has become a symbol of Canadian heritage both at home and abroad.

The generations came together on June 7 to mark Philippine Independence Day with a vibrant afternoon of music, dance, and community spirit.

Hundreds gathered to celebrate Filipino culture, enjoying family-friendly activities, traditional food, and performances that showcased the community’s rich heritage.

The new park area in Cochrane's Greystone community earned the praise of hundreds of people gathered for its grand opening on Saturday, June 7.

Its 20 pickleball courts are now open, complemented by a basketball court and a playground. Washroom amenities are nearing completion, a pickleball sound barrier is on order, and two new ball diamonds are set to open next spring.

The union representing Alberta teachers says members have voted 95 per cent in favour of strike action and they could hit the picket lines in the next four months.

Alberta Teachers' Association president Jason Schilling says teachers are sending a message that they are united and will no longer prop up an underfunded public education system.

Finance Minister Nate Horner says a mediator's recommendation rejected by teachers included the same 12 per cent pay increase over four years that has already been accepted by other unions.

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.