Lacombe

Ottawa's new trade minister says he's looking to sign deals in South America, Southeast Asia, Africa and beyond — and to convince businesses to actually use the trade agreements Canada has already signed.

"My primary role as Canada's top salesman is to be out there hustling, opening doors for businesses and accessing new markets," Maninder Sidhu told The Canadian Press.

"My phone has been ringing with opportunities because people want to deal with reliable, stable trading partners."

A derelict house that sat vacant for more than 19 years in downtown Red Deer has finally been torn down.

Located at 4602 48th Ave., the property had long been a source of frustration and concern for the community.

Over the years, it became a hotspot for squatting, frequent evening foot traffic in and out, and ongoing safety issues.

The home was repeatedly tagged with graffiti, surrounded by overgrown trees and shrubs, and even caught fire earlier this year.

A newly recruited cardiologist is now practising at Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre, enhancing cardiac care for residents of Red Deer and surrounding areas.

Dr. Ahmad Shoaib provides a full spectrum of services in general cardiology and cardiac imaging at both Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre and the Healthy Heart Institute in Red Deer.

A new community art initiative is winding its way through Sylvan Lake as residents are invited to help name a growing “rock snake” set to be displayed at the Health and Wellness Healing Hub on Neighbour Day (August 17).

The colourful rock snake, made up of painted stones contributed by local residents, is part of an effort to bring creativity and connection to the community.

With the project officially underway, the Town is calling on residents to help give the snake an identity by submitting name suggestions.

Rimbey RCMP are now clear from a serious motor vehicle collision that happened last night (Friday, August 1) at the intersection of Highway 20 and Highway 20a and are reporting that normal traffic flow has resumed.

More updates will be provided as they are made available.

Click here for the latest traffic updates

Unionized workers at Canada Post have voted to reject the Crown corporation's latest contract offer.

The Canadian Union of Postal Workers said Friday that 68.5 per cent of urban mail carriers who voted were against the deal, while their rural and suburban colleagues were 69.4 per cent against.

The offer included wage hikes of about 13 per cent over four years but also added part-time workers that Canada Post has said are necessary to keep the postal service afloat.

The union had urged the roughly 55,000 postal service workers it represents to reject the proposal.

Olds RCMP have been unable to locate the suspect associated to the earlier heavy police presence release.

This incident was related to a report of a male attempting to light a fire on a rural road. Upon arrival, officers located a stolen vehicle and attempted to track the suspect on foot.

Police have conducted an extensive search of the area using police dog, helicopter, and drone resources. The investigation into this incident continues and additional updates maybe forthcoming.

RCMP are on scene of a serious motor vehicle collision at the intersection on Highway 20 and Highway 20a, near Township Road 425.

The southbound lane is blocked.

Police advise motorist to expect delays. 

Police anticipate remaining on scene for several hours.

Updates are anticipated.

Click here for the latest updates

Olds RCMP are currently tracking a suspect in the areas between Highway 587 and Township Road 350 from Range Road 12 and Range Road 14.

Area residents are being asked to secure their home, refrain from picking up any pedestrians, and call 911 if you see anything suspicious.

Updates will be provided when available.

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The move is part of the Canola Council of Canada's new strategic framework, 'Canola Forward: A Strategic Framework for 2025-2030.'

The news came in a press release announcing the new framework. Chris Davison, president & CEO, says the framework is focused on priorities identified by the Canadian canola industry and is aligned to help the industry seize emerging opportunities while navigating changing industry and trade dynamics.