Alberta Grains names acting chair as Tara Sawyer runs for UCP in Olds-Didsbury-Three Hills by-election
Scott Jespersen has been named the acting chair for Alberta Grains.
Chair Tara Sawyer is taking a leave of absence effective immediately following her appointment by Premier Danielle Smith as the United Conservative Party (UCP) candidate for the Olds-Didsbury-Three Hills by-election.
Sawyer, a wheat and barley farmer from Acme, Alberta, was elected as Alberta Grains’ inaugural chair in 2023 after the amalgamation of the Alberta Wheat and Barley Commissions.
Olds College signs training agreement with Uzbekistan
The training agreement will establish an environment, social and governance program that will be offered to students in Uzbekistan.
Countries across the globe are seeking out Canadian post-secondary institutions for partnerships focused on learning and exchanging knowledge.
Olds College in Olds, Alta., is one of the latest, signing an international training agreement with Uzbekistan April 29 following a memorandum of understanding signed last November.
Drake Meats announces major expansion
Drake Meats has announced a significant expansion with the construction of a new federally inspected plant in Saskatoon. This marks the first major expansion for the company, which has been operating out of its original plant in Drake, Saskatchewan.
Loonies off limits: Banff closes lake section to protect nesting birds
A section of Banff National Park has been closed to protect nesting loons — the bird that graces Canada’s dollar coin.
Parks Canada issued an area closure on May 20, barring all access to the north end of Third Vermilion Lake, including the shoreline and adjacent waters.
"The north end of Third Vermilion Lake including the shoreline and nearby waters" is closed to "all traffic and travel," the Banff Field Unit bulletin states.
Airdrie’s spray park opening date lands just in time
Airdrie’s Chinook Winds spray park opens for the season Friday, just as forecasts predict the city could hit 27°C early next week.
"The spray park will open for the season on Friday, May 23," the City of Airdrie stated on its website.
Environment Canada, in its Airdrie-specific forecast issued Wednesday, is calling for a high of 24°C on Sunday, followed by 27°C on both Monday and Tuesday. The agency shows a steady climb beginning Saturday, with rising UV levels and no precipitation expected.
Delay might not be the only thing in your mailbox, Airdrie residents warned
Airdrie and Rocky View residents already bracing for a possible Canada Post strike are now being warned about a second risk: scammers.
In a May 21 news release, the Better Business Bureau Serving Southern Alberta and East Kootenay warned that fraudsters often exploit postal disruptions by sending fake delivery messages or impersonating mail carriers to steal personal or banking information.
"During the previous postal shutdown (November/December 2024) there were media reports of an uptick in scams," said Mary O'Sullivan-Andersen, president and CEO of the BBB.
Rockin’ Thunder hits Alberta – Score your free tickets from Air 106
Summer’s about to get loud, in the best way possible. Rockin’ Thunder is rolling into Alberta, and if you like your weekends packed with guitars, good vibes, and unforgettable memories, you won’t want to miss it.
This year’s Rockin' Thunder lineup is stacked with classic rock legends that’ll have you dancing at the Race Track. It's happening July 11-12 in Edmonton, just a road trip away from Airdrie and absolutely worth the drive.
Investing in community: Airdrie foundation gives out $50K
On Thursday, the Airdrie and District Community Foundation handed out $50,000 to a number of different local organizations.
A registered charity, The Airdrie and District Community Foundation allows people and organizations to donate tax-deductible funds to a lasting financial legacy that will benefit Airdrie for years to come. Those who donate have the option to pick where their funds go.
Kelly Boudreau, the vice chair (and on the board) for the foundation, is thankful that the foundation is able to hand out such a large amount.
Municipalities warn of postal delays ahead of possible strike action
Rocky View County says mail delivery could be disrupted due to a possible Canada Post strike.
In a notice posted to its website Tuesday, the municipality said delays may affect development permit notifications, utility billing, and other paper-based communications.
Planning-related notices — including decisions on development permits — may not reach neighbours and stakeholders by mail. The county said residents seeking updates should consult online resources or contact staff directly. Utility billing inquiries are being redirected to phone and email.
Rocky View Council approves key policies and appointments
Rocky View County (RVC) Council held a council meeting on May 6 and made a number of decisions.
According to RVC, the Council voted to approve the submission of a Forest Resource Improvement Association of Alberta grant application for an additional 2025/2026 Bragg Creek FireSmart Vegetation Management project.
"Council voted to support Rocky View Foundation’s plan to establish an Affordable Housing Reserve Fund as a dedicated capital reserve to help support future regional housing projects."