Many people at risk never got their 2nd mpox vaccine dose, public health agencies say

Public health agencies are encouraging people who received a first dose of mpox vaccine over the last two years to make sure they get a second dose. 

Many people at risk for mpox exposure got vaccinated in Canada beginning in spring 2022, when a global outbreak of the virus was declared, Canada's chief public health officer said in a recent interview with The Canadian Press.

But a lot of them never got a second dose, which is recommended at least 28 days after the first shot.

Girl, 15, lit on fire at Saskatoon high school, staff injured trying to help

A 15-year-old girl is in hospital with serious injuries after she was lit on fire at a Saskatoon high school, police said Thursday. 

Sgt. Ken Kane told reporters that a school resource officer, who was at Evan Hardy Collegiate for a different matter, apprehended a 14-year-old girl as a suspect.

He did not say how the victim was lit on fire or the extent of her burn injuries. 

"Our officer that was on scene was at the immediate area of the event within 30 seconds and had someone in custody within 60 seconds," he said.

Free mental health event to feature art, yoga, and music

An event centered on mental health awareness is heading to Strathmore this weekend.

On Saturday (Sept. 7) the "Stick it To Stigma" event will be hosted at the Strathmore Civic Centre from 12 p.m. until 3 p.m.

The event will feature information on healthy relationships, art, yoga, journaling, self-care, and emotional regulation. There is also the chance to win prizes, with a live musical performance from Greg Rider.

The event is being put together by Rebloom Community Health & Wellness.

Emotional vigil at Scotiabank Saddledome honours Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau

Hundreds of fans flocked to the Scotiabank Saddledome on Wednesday (Sept. 4) for a candlelight vigil for Johnny and Matthew Gaudreau.

The two brothers were killed by a suspected drunk driver last week while they were out for a bike ride.

Johnny played nine seasons with the Flames before signing with the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Members of the Flames organization past and present were on hand to talk about their relationship with Johnny.

Flames legend Lanny McDonald says, "Johnny and Matthew are leaving a legacy greater than they could have ever imagined."

Strathmore projecting a budget surplus by end of year

Wednesday (Aug. 4) marked the return of Strathmore Town Council after their last meeting on July 17.

During the meeting, they discussed their quarterly financial report, cemetery bylaw amendments, and the Family & Community Support Services (FCSS) Grant Program results.

According to their financial report for the second quarter of 2024, the overall budget is on target, with a forecasted surplus of $133,000 over budget. According to the town, this forecast reflects the impact of the Calgary water main break.

Aging trees taken down to prepare for water system overhaul in 2025

Aging trees along Maplewood Drive were taken down earlier this year in May to make way for new infrastructure work.

According to staff with the Town of Strathmore, the trees had reached the end of their lifespan.

"While sad, this was a necessary step to prepare for important infrastructure work planned for 2025," says the town in a Facebook post.

Officials say this is part of the town's Master Water Servicing Study and the upcoming closure of the Brentwood reservoir.

Strathmore Spartans face Chestermere Lakers in crucial game following heavy losses

It's been a rough start to the season for the Strathmore Spartans.

The football team's preseason against the Catholic Central Cougars finished in a 35-0 loss, while their first regular season game ended in a devastating 74-16 blowout against the Cardston Cougars in late August.

The team's next game is set at the Strathmore High School football field on Friday (Sept. 6) at 5 p.m. against the Chestermere Lakers.

New scholarships awarded to Wheatland County students for academic excellence

Two Wheatland County students are now the proud recipients of a new scholarship.

Samantha Munro and Karley Clark have been awarded the grants thanks to their academic achievements, community involvement, and strong dedication to their studies.

According to a news release from Wheatland County, the scholarship is given out annually to Wheatland County students.

A total of $2,000, with a maximum of $4,000 for all scholarships is offered through the program.

Chestermere City Council’s new policy aims to foster constructive dialogue with residents

Chestermere City Council recently approved a new policy that lets members of the public have their voices heard during decision-making processes.

According to a release from the City of Chestermere, the goal of the Public Input Policy is to facilitate constructive and respectful dialogue between members of council and the public on key decisions impacting the city.

City staff said people will be allowed to make comments during the public input section of both council meetings and Governance & Priorities Committee Meetings either in person or via a written submission.