Carstairs

A woman from Carstairs has been sentenced to five years in prison after attempting to arrange the murder of her husband through an undercover police officer.

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• Carstairs senior arrested in alleged murder-for-hire plot

Audra Lynne Symbalisty, 60, was arrested in February 2024 after offering $5,000 to someone she believed was a hitman.

Chinook's Edge School Division administrators had the opportunity to meet and hear from incoming Superintendent Ryan Sawula during their regular meeting on March 12.

Present Superintendent Kurt Sacher urged those at the meeting to adopt a positive outlook on transition and informed the audience that he has been impressed with Sawula thus far. He believes that under Sawula's direction, the division will continue to do a fantastic job.

Neighbouring school division to the north of Rocky View Schools, Chinook’s Edge School Division Board of Trustees, have approved their 2026-2029 Capital Plan.

The plan prioritizes school construction and renovation projects based on demographics, projected community growth, facility utilization rates, and overall building conditions.

"The plan is submitted to Alberta Infrastructure for consideration," stated the school division.

According to Chinook's Edge, the Capital Plan includes the following priorities, which would affect Airdrie's neighbouring communities:

A 59-year-old Carstairs man faces multiple charges following an RCMP investigation that uncovered a butane extraction lab, firearms, and illicit drugs.

On Oct. 16, 2024, Didsbury RCMP initiated an investigation after information was received that suspects were using a butane extractor and were in possession of multiple controlled substances. Didsbury RCMP requested assistance from the Airdrie RCMP Crime Reduction Unit (CRU).

The town of Crossfield is making a strong push for a $250,000 arena upgrade and the chance to host an NHL game as part of Kraft Hockeyville’s national competition.

Jennifer Watson, president of the Crossfield Skating Club, said the bid is about more than just renovations; it’s about creating lasting memories for local youth.

“Our arena needs upgrades, and this competition not only provides funding but also the opportunity to bring an NHL game to our community, that would be monumental for the kids, real core memory building.”

At their meeting on February 4, the trustees of Chinook's Edge School Board discussed the spring budget process and created tools to help newly elected trustees succeed.

The Chinook’s Edge Board of Trustees reviewed an annual report outlining the division’s preparations for the upcoming spring budgeting process.

"The division has designed its process to prioritize fairness and transparency in the way resources are allocated. The Board supports the process," stated Chinook's Edge.

According to Fortis Alberta, there were several power outages north of Airdrie but have since been fixed

They were reporting the outages near Carstairs, Crossfield and Olds, which are affecting around 60 customers.

According to Fortis, the reason behind the outages is because of snow and ice build-up. 

Yesterday and this morning Airdronians were also reporting their power flickering all throughout the city.

A major collision involving many vehicles had shut down the QEII southbound between Veterans Boulevard and Yankee Valley Boulevard but has since reopened.

Crews were on the scene tending to the situation.

A multi-vehicle collision on Highway 2 northbound near Township Road 310 just south of the Didsbury overpass is causing delays.

Witnesses say it looks like a lorry attempted to cross the highway in this morning's heavy fog when several vehicles crashed into its side.

The slow lane remains clear, but drivers are urged to reduce speed and use caution in the area. Crews are on the scene.

There is no word yet on injuries or when the scene will be fully cleared.

On Wednesday afternoon, a tow ban that had previously been implemented for parts of Alberta was lifted. While towing services have resumed, road conditions in some areas may still pose challenges for drivers. Authorities are urging motorists to remain cautious.

On Tuesday evening, the RCMP in central Alberta advised against travel along QEII between Edmonton and Calgary due to extreme weather conditions.