Lacombe

Air Canada flights within North America are expected to ramp up this morning as the airline continues its operational restart following a three-day flight attendants' strike.

The company resumed flights Tuesday afternoon after a complete halt to Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge routes that began early Saturday morning.

It said it was focusing on outbound international flights to start.

In a partial policy reversal, Alberta's government said Tuesday it will cover the cost of COVID-19 vaccinations for health-care workers.

Maddison McKee, spokesperson to Primary and Preventative Health Services Minister Adriana LaGrange, said in an email that COVID-19 vaccine coverage will be extended to all health-care workers this fall under the first phase of the province's vaccination rollout.

"Immunization will remain voluntary," said McKee.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith's government is again shifting its expense disclosure policy after critics from across the political spectrum accused her of dodging responsibility.

In early August, the province quietly published new rules axing a requirement for Smith, her ministers, senior staff and deputy ministers to publicly post receipts for expenses over $100. 

Marisa Breeze, press secretary to Finance Minister Nate Horner, said in a Tuesday email that cabinet has directed Horner to see that the previous expense posting policy is reinstated -- but with a tweak.

Farm Credit Canada is extending its trade disruption support program for canola producers impacted by the ongoing trade disruptions.

Last week, China implemented a 75.8 per cent tariff on Canadian canola seed imports.

FCC's President and CEO Justine Hendricks says the agriculture and food industry is resilient, but global trade uncertainty can create real pressure on cash flow and operations.

A GoFundMe has raised more than $30,000 for the family of Shelley Thornton, who died in a recent collision.

The fundraiser was created by John Ferguson, manager of Red Deer’s municipal police services, on behalf of Thornton’s co-workers at the RCMP detachment. Thornton worked daily with Ferguson in her role as an administrative assistant.

“Shelly is just a wonderful person, very caring. She was an important part of our team here and she will be greatly missed,” Ferguson said.

CN Rail submitted its 2025-26 Grain Plan to Transport Canada at the end of July.

CN's Assistant Vice-President of Grain, David Przednowek, says the grain plan is based on what CN knows from customers and other stakeholders about the volume of grain and processed grain products that it expects to move over the course of the 2025-26 crop year.

The City of Red Deer is inviting residents to apply to serve on a council committee or the Central Alberta Regional Assessment Review Board (RARB).

“Serving on a committee or board is a powerful way to share your voice, build leadership skills, and help shape decisions that impact daily life in our city and region,” said Catherine Jackson, deputy clerk. 

“We encourage anyone with the time, expertise, or passion for public service to consider applying.” 

The RCMP Major Crimes Unit reports Ashton Deschamps was located and taken into custody in North Battleford, Saskatchewan.

Police say he will appear in court there before being escorted back to Alberta.

An update will be provided once court proceedings are scheduled in Alberta.

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The Town of Olds Community Connections Centre is continuing its annual Backpack Drive to support local children heading back to school.

Donations of new or gently used backpacks and lunch kits are being collected for the Olds Community Connection Centre’s drive.

School supplies are also welcome.

The Lacombe Performing Arts Centre (LPAC), in partnership with FCSS Lacombe, is once again offering dementia-friendly music sessions this fall.

The free weekly program runs Tuesdays from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., from October 7 to December 2, at LPAC.

Registration is required by emailing admin@lacombepac.com or calling 403-588-4386.

The sessions are designed to build community connections, uplift spirits, and create an inclusive environment for people living with dementia.