Carstairs

Ah, the holiday season—a magical time for twinkling lights, warm cocoa, and those Santa photos. You know the ones. Maybe it’s your toddler’s first introduction to the man in red, and they’re totally into it…until they’re not. Or there’s the ultimate holiday drama: the unplanned potty break that makes Rudolph's red nose seem tame.

At Air 106, we know those “picture-perfect” Santa moments can go hilariously haywire. That’s why we’re calling on you to dig into your photo albums and share your Santa Photo Fails!

Earlier this month, the Carstairs Fire Department said goodbye to Captain Josh Van Arnam as he retired to move to British Columbia with his family.

Also known as the former fire prevention officer the public relations officer, Van Arnam is very grateful for his time in Carstairs. He talked about why he was moving away from the town.

"Life changes, that was the biggest decision, my wife and I have an opportunity to move where it's slightly warmer among other opportunities in B.C."

A thick blanket of freezing fog has settled over the Airdrie and surrounding area.

Near zero visibility freezing fog is occurring in some areas. Fog developed overnight and is expected to persist until late this morning. Visibility may be significantly and suddenly reduced to near zero. If visibility is reduced while driving, slow down, watch for taillights ahead and be prepared to stop.

The federal government is set to roll out a series of financial relief measures to ease the economic pressures on Canadians, particularly during the holiday season.

These initiatives include a temporary GST/HST break on groceries and holiday essentials from December 14, 2024, to February 15, 2025, and a $250 Working Canadians Rebate, which will be issued in early spring 2025.

GST/HST Bbreeak for holiday essentials and groceries

With Mountain View County's approval, E3 Lithium Ltd. has secured a location for its Clearwater Project. The County has granted E3 Lithium an option to acquire land at the former Dyck Gravel Pit, approximately 18 kilometres east of the County Office.

This land will serve as the site for E3 Lithium’s central processing facility, which is poised to be the first commercial lithium production facility in Western Canada.

Winter driving conditions will again be in effect for Airdrie motorists on Thursday as snow continues to fall.

The QEII, both north and southbound, is covered in snow, making driving challenging. Snow-packed surfaces and icy shoulders are reported to contribute to poor visibility. Bridge decks, ramps, and overpasses are also likely to be icy; hence, motorists should give themselves plenty of time to commute today. Roads within Calgary will not be much better, as snow has covered lane markings. 

Last week, an associate superintendent and a group of school administrators from the Westwind School Division in Southern Alberta went to Chinook's Edge School Division to find out more about the division's strategy for helping students with complex needs.

The educators were particularly eager to see the Chinook's Edge Collaborative Support Model for Educational Assistants (EAs) in action at Carstairs Elementary School.

At 1:55 p.m. today, Albertans will experience a test of the National Public Alerting System as part of a province-wide Alberta Emergency Alert drill.

The test will be broadcast across various channels, including television, radio, wireless devices, websites, social media platforms, and the Alberta Emergency Alert mobile app. Compatible cell phones will also receive the alert directly.  

Rocky View County has introduced a new, accessible approach to its proposed 2025 annual budget, which is now available for review.

Presented in multiple, easy-to-navigate documents, the budget clearly breaks down County services, suggested improvements, and new initiatives alongside the proposed base budget. This streamlined format lets residents find the information that matters most to them.

Key figures and tax strategy 

One Airdrie resident has created a social media page highlighting the city’s most festively decorated homes, allowing residents of all ages to explore and enjoy the holiday displays. With around 4,000 members, the Facebook group lets members view addresses on a shared document—complete with listed quadrants and photos of stunning holiday displays across the city - and the group is growing, welcoming more residents into the fold.