Uncle Joe and Aunty Kannah with my brother and I.

Everyone who knows me knows how important my parents are to me—not just my biological parents, whom I adore (and one of whom I now live next door to!), but also the many others who treated me as their own son, seeing something in me that I never saw in myself. In future pieces, I hope to honour as many of them as I can without becoming overbearing.

One couple who have been pressing heavily on my heart lately are Uncle Joe and Aunty Kannah.

From the very first time I stayed with them until the last time I was in Canada in 2023, their home was always home to me.

When I was younger, I spent many weekends there and was thoroughly spoiled. Saturday mornings meant waking up just in time to watch my favourite cartoons while Aunty Kannah prepared breakfast. Sundays were for church together, Vacation Bible School, family meals and countless moments that still bring a smile to my face. Those memories remain among the happiest of my childhood.

But it was during my high school years that Uncle Joe and Aunty Kannah truly helped shape the man I would become.

When I moved to Canada in 2000, I first settled in Two Hills. Dad had been operating the Chronicle and had a home near the water tower. The plan was for me to attend Two Hills School.

The problem was that my heart was still in South Africa.

I missed my family terribly and struggled with the thought of starting over in a new country and a completely different school system. Dad, being the determined man he has always been, tried everything he could to encourage me. Neither of us handled the situation particularly well, and eventually we both realized we needed a little space.

So we drove to Barrhead.

I told Uncle Joe that I wanted to return to South Africa. As always, he listened patiently before offering several options. One of them was simply this:

"Why don't you stay here with us for a while?"

Knowing their home had always been a place of safety, I accepted without hesitation.

Since it was the beginning of summer and Uncle Joe was principal of the Alberta Distance Learning Centre at the time, he explained that because I was entering a new education system without all of my previous credits—and still needed courses like Social Studies and Career and Life Management—I had two choices.

I could enjoy the summer and begin Grade 10 in the fall, or I could complete those courses over the summer and start Grade 11 alongside my cousin, Krean.

To my teenage mind, the mathematics was simple.

Three months now, or an entire extra year later.

The decision practically made itself.

Like most teenagers, however, I spent almost as much time goofing off as I did studying.

Eventually Uncle Joe quietly did the math and realized that at my current pace I wasn't going to finish in time. He sat me down and simply said,

"I believe you can still get everything done."

That was all it took.

With his encouragement and Aunty Kannah patiently helping me whenever I got stuck, I put my head down and worked. Within a matter of weeks, I completed every course and wrote my exams a full week before school started.

Because of that summer, I entered Grade 11 instead of Grade 10.

That one conversation changed the direction of my education.

Of course, being me, I still had a few lessons left to learn.

Canadian schools gave students far more freedom than I had been used to in South Africa. Naturally, I became curious about where the boundaries were.

At first I skipped a class here and there to spend time with friends, drinking coffee around town and convincing myself I had become quite the rebel.

Then I made the brilliant decision to skip an entire week of school.

Every morning I left home exactly as if I were attending classes, carefully planning my days around friends who had spare periods or who were skipping classes themselves.

What never occurred to me was one simple detail.

Uncle Joe was a principal.

And principals talk to one another.

Concerned that something might be wrong, the principal of my school phoned Uncle Joe and asked whether I was alright because I hadn't attended school for several days.

Uncle Joe was understandably confused.

After all, he had watched me leave for school every morning.

When I arrived home that afternoon, Aunty Kannah was sitting quietly at the dining room table.

"Hi Aunty. How are you?" I asked cautiously.

"Son," she said gently, "come and sit down."

My stomach dropped.

"Uncle Joe found out you've been cutting class," she said softly. "He's not happy about it. Just listen to him and apologize. He'll understand."

She wasn't trying to frighten me.

She was trying to prepare me.

I went upstairs and waited.

Every possible lecture ran through my mind. I imagined shouting, disappointment and anger.

Instead...

When Uncle Joe arrived home, he calmly called me downstairs.

"Son," he began, "the principal called today because you haven't been in school."

I searched desperately for the right excuse.

Before I could speak, he continued.

"You know, son, I'm not going to yell at you. God knows you've had enough of that in your life. But I am going to tell you this—you have a beautiful opportunity here, and I would hate to see you waste it. Aunty Kannah and I love you. We love having you here, and we want to see you make something of yourself."

I was completely disarmed.

I expected thunder.

Instead, I received grace.

That conversation changed me.

For the first time, I understood that my self-destructive behaviour wasn't only hurting me. It was hurting two people who loved me as though I were their own son.

From that day forward, I made a conscious decision to take school seriously.

The change didn't happen overnight, but it happened.

My grades improved.

My attitude improved.

More importantly, I began to believe that maybe my life actually mattered.

By Grade 12 I had built enough momentum that graduation was finally within reach.

Then one final obstacle appeared.

Although I had completed Math 20 and was taking Math 30, there was no official record of my Math 10 course because I had completed it in South Africa.

Once again, graduation seemed to be slipping away.

But I hadn't counted on Uncle Joe.

He contacted my school in South Africa, arranged for my transcripts to be sent to Alberta, and suddenly everything fell into place.

I graduated with all the credits I needed.

Looking back now, I often wonder what would have become of me had I never lived with Uncle Joe and Aunty Kannah.

Before that time, discipline was something I resisted.

Afterward, it slowly became part of who I was.

I certainly haven't been perfect, and anyone who knows me can tell you I've made my fair share of mistakes since then. But those years taught me responsibility, perseverance and, above all, the power of unconditional love.

There is, however, one regret that still lingers in my heart.

At my graduation ceremony there came a moment when graduates were invited to dance with their mothers.

Krean and several others encouraged me to ask Aunty Kannah to dance.

But I was shy.

Socially awkward.

Unsure of myself.

So I stood back.

If I could relive that moment today, I would walk over to her, get down on one knee, and ask,

"Ma'am, may I have this dance?"

As the music played, I would tell her what I should have said all those years ago.

Thank you.

Thank you for loving a confused teenage boy who often made life more difficult than it needed to be.

Thank you for your patience.

Thank you for believing in me long before I believed in myself.

You showed me that love is the greatest strength in the world, and that when we choose to lead with love, we rarely go wrong.

As I write these words today, my eyes fill with tears.

There is simply no way I would be the man I am today without Uncle Joe and Aunty Kannah.

Life has given me many gifts, but few have shaped me more than the people who chose to love me when they didn't have to.

I was not given everything in this life.

But in Uncle Joe and Aunty Kannah...

God gave me you.

(Image generated using AI)

Alberta students transitioning out of government care now have the opportunity to apply for financial assistance toward their post-secondary education as applications open for the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge Scholarship.

Children and Family Services Minister Searle Turton announced that applications are now being accepted, encouraging all eligible students to submit their applications before the Aug. 31 deadline.

The scholarship, administered through Alberta's Advancing Futures Program, recognizes academic achievement and determination among young adults leaving government care. This year, 25 students will each receive a $2,000 scholarship to help pursue degree, diploma or certificate programs at post-secondary institutions.

Turton said the scholarship is designed to recognize the hard work and academic excellence of students while helping remove financial barriers as they transition into adulthood.

In addition to providing financial assistance, the Advancing Futures Program offers social and emotional supports to help young adults successfully navigate post-secondary education and build successful futures.

The scholarship was established by Alberta's government following the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's royal visit to the province in July 2011. Since its inception, 350 scholarships have been awarded to students transitioning from government care.

According to the province, Alberta invests $14.2 million annually in the Advancing Futures Program, making it the first initiative of its kind in Canada. The program is intended to provide comprehensive support for young adults pursuing higher education after leaving the child intervention system.

Eligible students have until Aug. 31 to submit their scholarship applications.

For more information about the Duke and Duchess Scholarship, visit the Government of Alberta at www.alberta.ca/duke-and-duchess-of-cambridge-scholarship.

(Source: Government of Alberta)

(Image generated using AI)

Alberta's government is investing an additional $30 million in community health centres to expand access to health and social services for vulnerable Albertans in Calgary and Edmonton.

The funding brings the province's total investment in community health centres to $60 million over four years, supporting organizations that provide integrated care for individuals facing barriers to accessing traditional health services.

The investment will help expand same-day and ongoing primary care, mental health and addiction services, community outreach, housing navigation, food access programs and other wraparound supports designed to address both medical and social needs.

Minister of Primary and Preventative Health Services Justin Wright said the funding will help ensure more Albertans receive the care they need without having to navigate the health system alone.

"Every Albertan deserves access to the care and support they need, when and where they need it," Wright said. "This investment will help more people facing barriers build lasting relationships with care teams and access health and social supports in their community."

Minister of Mental Health and Addiction Rick Wilson said the initiative supports the province's efforts to improve services for Albertans struggling with mental health and addiction challenges.

Community health centres focus on serving people experiencing poverty, homelessness, mental illness, addiction and other circumstances that can make accessing traditional primary care difficult. By combining health care with social supports under one roof, the centres aim to provide earlier intervention and reduce the need for emergency care.

According to the province, a previous $30-million investment expanded interdisciplinary care teams, improved access to ongoing primary care and strengthened community-based services. The additional funding is intended to build on those improvements by increasing front-line capacity, enhancing patient navigation and improving care coordination.

Leaders of participating organizations welcomed the announcement, saying the investment will allow them to continue delivering integrated care while improving health outcomes and reducing pressure on Alberta's broader health system.

The four organizations receiving funding over the four-year period are:

• The Alex Community Health Centre in Calgary – more than $23 million
• CUPS Calgary Society – more than $13 million
• Radius Community Health & Healing in Edmonton – $14 million
• Jasper Place Wellness Centre in Edmonton – $9.6 million

The province said participating centres will track patient outcomes and health-system use to measure the effectiveness of the investment.

Funding for the initiative is provided through the Canada-Alberta Bilateral Agreement to Improve Health Outcomes for Canadians.

(Source: Goverment of Alberta)

(Image generated using AI)

Canada's beef industry will come together this August as producers, researchers, veterinarians, students and industry leaders gather for the 2026 Canadian Beef Industry Conference (CBIC).

Scheduled for August 17 to 20 at the RBC Convention Centre in Winnipeg, Manitoba, the biennial conference is recognized as Canada's premier event dedicated to the country's beef sector. The conference provides an opportunity for attendees to explore new research, discuss emerging challenges, share practical knowledge and strengthen relationships across the industry.

The Beef Cattle Research Council (BCRC), a founding partner of the conference, says CBIC highlights the research, innovation and leadership helping build a strong and competitive Canadian beef industry.

This year's conference comes as beef producers continue to navigate changing market conditions, weather uncertainty, evolving consumer expectations and advances in agricultural technology. Organizers say the event is designed to provide practical information while giving producers the opportunity to connect with others facing similar challenges.

The conference will feature a wide range of educational sessions and networking opportunities, including a field tour hosted by the Manitoba Beef Producers, annual meetings for several national industry organizations, committee meetings for the Canadian Cattle Association and a banquet celebrating achievements within the sector.

New for 2026 is the Ranchers Forum and Bootcamp, offering producer-focused discussions, practical learning opportunities and peer-to-peer knowledge sharing.

Attendees will also hear from keynote speaker Gitane De Silva, a respected public policy leader, while breakout sessions will cover topics including market uncertainty, forage and drought management, communication across generations, the Canadian beef industry's competitive advantages and changing consumer trends.

During the conference banquet, the BCRC will present the Canadian Beef Industry Award for Outstanding Research and Innovation, recognizing a researcher whose leadership, mentorship and contributions have helped advance Canada's beef industry through innovation and scientific research.

Conference organizers encourage beef farmers and ranchers, researchers, veterinarians, students, industry organizations and agribusiness professionals to attend the event.

Additional information, registration details, accommodation options and the full conference program are available through the Canadian Beef Industry Conference website.

Information for this article was sourced from the Beef Cattle Research Council.
For more information about the Beef Cattle Research Council, visit their website at www.beefresearch.ca.

(Image generated using AI)

For generations, many of us have been taught that crying is a sign of weakness. Phrases like "toughen up," "big boys don't cry," or "stop being so emotional" have become deeply ingrained in our culture. As a result, countless people suppress their emotions, believing that tears should be hidden rather than expressed.

The truth is very different.

Crying is one of the most natural and healthiest responses the human body has. Far from being a sign of weakness, shedding tears is a built-in mechanism that helps regulate our nervous system, release stress, and support both our physical and emotional well-being. Sometimes, allowing ourselves to cry is exactly what our bodies need to begin healing.

Not all tears are created equal.

Sometimes our eyes water because of smoke, dust, allergies, or even while chopping onions. These reflex tears help flush away irritants and protect our eyes from harm. Our bodies also produce basal tears throughout the day to keep our eyes lubricated, healthy, and free from infection. Physical pain and even extreme exhaustion can also trigger tears as the body responds to overwhelming stress.

Most of us, however, are familiar with emotional tears.

Grief, loss, disappointment, stress, frustration, fear, and burnout can all overwhelm our nervous system. Rather than being a sign that we are "falling apart," crying often represents our body's way of releasing emotional pressure before it becomes too much to carry.

The benefits go far beyond simply "feeling better."

When we cry, our parasympathetic nervous system—the part responsible for rest and recovery—is activated. Our heart rate begins to slow, our breathing gradually settles, and our bodies shift away from the "fight or flight" response into a calmer, more restorative state.

Prolonged crying also releases oxytocin and endorphins, the body's natural "feel-good" chemicals. These hormones not only help dull physical pain but also soften emotional suffering, bringing a sense of comfort during moments of intense grief or stress. Emotional tears are also believed to help remove excess stress hormones such as cortisol, allowing the body to recover after periods of prolonged emotional strain.

Even our eyes benefit. Tears contain lysozyme, a naturally occurring enzyme with antimicrobial properties that helps fight bacteria and protect against infection, while continuous tear production keeps our vision clear by preventing our eyes from drying out.

Crying also plays an important role in our mental health.

After experiencing overwhelming emotions—whether sadness, fear, frustration, or even overwhelming joy—crying helps the brain restore emotional balance. Many people notice that once the tears have passed, they feel calmer, lighter, and better able to think clearly. The physical release often leaves the body ready for rest, explaining why many people sleep more peacefully after a good cry.

Suppressing emotions may seem like strength, but over time it can have the opposite effect. Continually bottling up difficult feelings has been linked to increased stress and may contribute to problems such as high blood pressure, a weakened immune system, and emotional burnout. Allowing ourselves to express healthy emotions can be an important part of maintaining both mental and physical health.

Interestingly, tears are not reserved only for sadness.

Many people cry during life's happiest moments. Weddings, the birth of a child, achieving a lifelong goal, receiving wonderful news, or witnessing an extraordinary act of kindness can all bring tears to our eyes. Our brains often respond to overwhelming joy in much the same way they respond to overwhelming sorrow because both represent powerful emotional experiences.

There are also times when crying may be influenced by changes within the body itself. Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, postpartum recovery, or premenstrual syndrome can increase emotional sensitivity. Persistent or unexplained crying may also be associated with conditions such as depression, anxiety, or certain neurological disorders. If crying becomes frequent, uncontrollable, or begins interfering with daily life, it is important to seek guidance from a healthcare professional.

From the very beginning of life, crying has served an important purpose. A baby's cry is its first form of communication, signalling hunger, discomfort, fear, or the need for comfort. As adults, our tears continue to communicate what words sometimes cannot. They silently tell others that we are hurting, invite empathy, and often strengthen the bonds between family members, friends, and communities. Sometimes the simple act of allowing ourselves to be vulnerable opens the door for the support we need most.

Perhaps one of the greatest misconceptions about crying is that it represents weakness.

In reality, it often takes far more courage to acknowledge our emotions than to hide them. Crying reminds us that we care deeply, that we have loved, that we have experienced loss, and that we remain fully human.

So, if you find yourself crying today, don't apologise for it.

Allow yourself the space to feel.

Your tears are not a sign that you are weak.

They are often a sign that your mind, body, and heart are doing exactly what they were designed to do.

Sometimes healing doesn't begin when the tears stop.

Sometimes healing begins because they were finally allowed to fall.

(Image generated using AI)

Alberta's Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation, Tara Sawyer, is encouraging Albertans to celebrate Food Day Canada by recognizing the farmers, ranchers, processors and food producers who help feed families across the province and around the world.

Observed annually on Aug. 1, Food Day Canada celebrates Canadian cuisine while highlighting the people and industries that produce the country's food. The day also encourages Canadians to support local agriculture by purchasing homegrown products, visiting farmers' markets and dining at local restaurants.

In a statement marking the occasion, Sawyer said agriculture remains at the heart of Alberta's economy and identity, noting that the province plays a leading role in Canada's food industry.

Alberta is Canada's largest producer of beef, honey and processed potatoes, while also ranking second nationally in the production of canola and wheat. The province is also a major producer and exporter of oats, barley and pork, supplying high-quality ingredients to both domestic and international markets.

Alberta's beef has earned worldwide recognition for its quality, while the province's grains contribute to the production of breads, pasta, craft beers and award-winning whiskies enjoyed across Canada and abroad.

Sawyer said Alberta's agricultural sector not only provides nutritious food but also supports thousands of jobs, strengthens rural communities and serves as a major economic driver for the province.

To celebrate Food Day Canada, Albertans are encouraged to explore locally produced foods, shop at farmers' markets and support restaurants that feature Alberta and Canadian ingredients.

The minister said sharing meals made with locally produced food is a meaningful way to recognize the hard work and dedication of the people who grow, raise and prepare the food that reaches tables every day.

For more information about Food Day Canada, visit their website at www.fooddaycanada.ca.

(Source: Government of Alberta)

Friends and family of Sonny Rajoo, a well-known journalist and former local politician from Two Hills, gathered in Port Shepstone, South Africa, for a Celebration of Life service, on July 25, giving those from his hometown the opportunity to share their memories, express their love, and honour a man whose kindness and generosity touched lives across the globe.

Organized by Sonny's South African family and spearheaded by his eldest brother, Joe Raju, the gathering was a fitting tribute to a man who meant so much to so many. With the support of his brothers Larry and Johnny, his nephews Jeremy, Eugene, and Andre, along with many other family members and friends, the celebration beautifully reflected the man behind the titles and accomplishments. It was a heartfelt reminder that Sonny's greatest legacy was not found in public office or journalism, but in the relationships he built and the lives he enriched.

The service is available to watch on YouTube using the link below.

www.youtube.com/live/BcDLOuSb5N0?si=CRPMPi83akGtBBF1

(For the best viewing experience, we recommend watching on a mobile device.)

A Personal Note

Niri asked me to write this article a week ago. True to form, I'm only getting to it today.

From the bottom of our hearts, we simply cannot express the depth of gratitude we feel for everyone who organized this beautiful celebration. As Niri and I have said to each other several times, "We just showed up." That truly was the extent of our involvement. Everything else was made possible through the love, dedication, and hard work of our family.

The service gave us the opportunity to celebrate a man who meant so much to so many people. While Niri and I had the privilege of calling him Dad, we always knew his love was never reserved for just his children and grandchildren. It extended to his brothers and sisters, nieces and nephews, extended family, neighbours, lifelong friends, and the countless people he met throughout his journey.

To everyone who helped make the day possible, whether your contribution was large or small, visible or behind the scenes, please know that we are deeply grateful. Your humility may prevent you from seeking recognition, but we want you to know that your kindness did not go unnoticed. We pray that God richly blesses each and every one of you.

(Image generated using AI)

Albertans are being invited to come together on Sunday, Aug. 30, to celebrate Alberta Day with free, family-friendly events in Edmonton and Calgary, as communities across the province mark the occasion with festivities highlighting Alberta's history, culture and community spirit.

Alberta Day commemorates the province joining Confederation on Sept. 1, 1905, offering residents an opportunity to celebrate the people, places and traditions that have helped shape Alberta while recognizing the province's contributions to Canada.

The Government of Alberta is supporting celebrations in 69 municipalities between Aug. 28 and Sept. 1, with flagship events taking place at the Alberta Legislature Grounds in Edmonton and Heritage Park Historical Village in Calgary.

Festivities begin at 11 a.m. and continue throughout the day, featuring live entertainment, local vendors, family activities and cultural experiences designed to showcase Alberta's heritage and creativity. Visitors attending the Edmonton celebration will also be treated to a complimentary barbecue at the Legislature Grounds.

Live music will be a major attraction, with Alberta country artist Jake Mathews headlining the Edmonton celebration and award-winning singer-songwriter Kyle McKearney taking the stage in Calgary. Both events will conclude at 9 p.m. with a drone show combining music, light and technology to tell Alberta's story.

Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of Women Tanya Fir said Alberta Day provides an opportunity for residents to celebrate the province they call home while recognizing its history, culture and contributions to a united Canada.

Whether families are lifelong Albertans or newcomers to the province, organizers say Alberta Day is intended to bring people together to celebrate local talent, connect with neighbours and appreciate the diverse cultures and traditions that make Alberta unique.

Alberta Day was first officially celebrated in 2022, and a complete list of participating communities is available through the Government of Alberta.

For more information about Alberta Day, visit the Government of Alberta website at www.alberta.ca/alberta-day-2026.

(Source: Government of Alberta)

Many years ago, I had the genuine pleasure of working with one of the hardest-working farmers in the Two Hills area, Bob Bachelet. I always called him "Uncle Bob" because he and my dad were such close friends that they referred to each other as brothers. Before long, he felt like family to me too.

In the summer of 2014, I had just returned home after a stay in the St. Paul hospital. One afternoon, I was sitting on the couch watching television when I heard a knock at the door.

It was Uncle Bob.

"Hey there, young feller!" he said in his familiar, fatherly voice. "Whatcha doing?"

"Nothing much, Uncle Bob. Just relaxing," I replied with a smile.

"How come you're not at work?"

"I don't have a job at the moment," I admitted, a little embarrassed.

He took off his hat, scratched his head for a moment and said, "You know, I could use a hand on the farm if you'd be up to it."

"I'd love to," I answered without hesitation.

I had always been fascinated by farming. Growing up in town, I had absolutely no experience with it, but there was something remarkable about the idea of working the land that had always appealed to me.

"Great," he said. "Meet me at my place at eight sharp."

The next morning, I woke up eager for my first day. After feeding my dog, Nero, and chugging down a quick cup of coffee, I headed out. Since Uncle Bob lived just down the road, I decided to walk. It wasn't far, and the quiet country road made for a beautiful start to the day.

I arrived a few minutes before eight and knocked on the door.

"Come on in there, young feller. Have a seat. You drink coffee?"

He was already standing at the stove making breakfast.

"Actually, Uncle Bob, I'm ready to get to work if you've got something for me to start on," I said, trying to politely decline despite the mouth-watering smell of bacon filling the kitchen.

"Nonsense," he replied, pouring me a cup of coffee. "We're gonna have breakfast first. Then we can get to it."

Looking back, I'm glad I didn't argue.

After a hearty breakfast, we headed outside to begin the day's work. I have always tried to stay in reasonably good shape—well, perhaps "reasonably" is doing a lot of heavy lifting—but I quickly discovered I was no match for Uncle Bob. He tossed hay bales around as though they were made of paper while I struggled to keep up.

By lunchtime, I was completely worn out.

Back in the house, another hot, delicious meal was waiting. We'd sit together, eat, chat for a while, and then head back outside for the afternoon's work. Every day followed much the same rhythm: a hearty breakfast, honest work, a wonderful lunch, and countless conversations.

Working alongside a lifelong farmer was an education in itself. Like a sponge, I soaked up everything he taught me—from planting a productive garden to the gravity-flow irrigation system he had built and perfected over the years.

When the season finally came to an end, he thanked me for my help and said that if he ever needed anything, he'd give me a call. He also reminded me that if I ever needed a hand, I should never hesitate to ask.

Not long afterwards, Uncle Bob stopped by with another project.

"I've got something I'd like your help with."

Naturally, I jumped at the chance.

His request, however, caught me completely off guard.

He wanted me to help him gather and prepare the lumber for his coffin.

At the time, I remember thinking it was an unusual request, but I never questioned him. He explained that he wanted to be able to say he had built his own coffin using wood from his own land. He wasn't expecting to pass away anytime soon. He simply wanted to do it himself.

Then he looked at me and said something I have never forgotten.

"Jared, you speak at my funeral and tell people I did that."

My first thought was, Please don't make me speak in public.

What I actually said was, "What would I say?"

He grinned.

"Make something up... you're a good writer."

I remember silently wondering, Am I?

As it turned out, Uncle Bob saw something in me long before I saw it in myself.

Years later, I would decide to take writing seriously. Looking back now, I can't help but smile at the confidence he had in me before I ever had it in myself.

Sadly, I never did get to fulfil that request.

To the Bachelet family, I simply want to say thank you for sharing Uncle Bob with our community. He was one of the kindest, hardest-working and most genuine people I have ever known. His warm smile, gentle humour and fatherly voice remain among my fondest memories.

And to Uncle Bob...

Thank you.

Thank you for the breakfasts, the conversations, the lessons in the garden, the long days of honest work, the Lions Club bingos, and for treating a town kid like he belonged on the farm.

One day, when we meet again, I hope you'll know that although I never got to speak at your funeral, I finally kept my promise by telling your story.

Some requests may remain unfinished.

But some promises simply take a little longer to keep.

(Image generated using AI)

Students planning to attend post-secondary school this fall will soon have access to more than $107 million in scholarships, awards and bursaries as Alberta Student Aid opens applications for the 2026-27 academic year on Aug. 4.

The funding is designed to help reduce the financial burden of higher education by providing non-repayable assistance to students pursuing college, university and other post-secondary programs across the province.

According to the Government of Alberta, the scholarships, awards and bursaries will support approximately 50,400 students during the upcoming academic year. The province is also making it easier to access financial assistance by moving 20 scholarships and awards to an online application process.

Minister of Advanced Education Myles McDougall said the investment is aimed at helping more Albertans pursue education while strengthening the province's workforce.

"Investing in students is an investment in Alberta's future. Scholarships, awards and bursaries help reduce financial barriers, recognize student achievement and ensure more Albertans can access the education and training they need to succeed."

One of the most significant changes this year is the expansion of the New Beginnings Bursary, which supports low-income learners entering high-demand post-secondary programs. The bursary will now assist 2,400 students, more than doubling last year's total of 1,000 recipients.

Funding for the program has also increased by $7 million, bringing its total allocation to $12 million for the 2026-27 school year.

The province continues to support academic excellence through its Heritage Scholarships, including the Alexander Rutherford Scholarship, which recognizes outstanding high school achievement. During the 2025-26 academic year, the scholarship provided nearly $50 million in funding to more than 24,000 students.

Heritage Fund Opportunities Corporation Chair Joe Lougheed said the scholarships continue to provide lasting benefits for Alberta students.

"By supporting student achievement and educational excellence, these scholarships help ensure the scholarship endowment continues to create opportunities and build a prosperous future for our province."

While scholarships, awards, bursaries and grants do not have to be repaid, student loans remain available as a separate form of financial assistance and must be repaid after studies are completed.

Applications for student loans and grants opened on June 3, and students are encouraged to apply at least 60 days before their program begins. Scholarship, award and bursary applications open Aug. 4 through Alberta Student Aid.

Key Highlights

• More than $107 million in scholarships, awards and bursaries available for 2026-27.
• Funding expected to support approximately 50,400 Alberta students.
• Applications for 20 scholarships and awards will be available through a new online application process.
• New Beginnings Bursary expands to support 2,400 students, up from 1,000 last year.
• Bursary funding increases to $12 million.
• More than $1 billion in total student aid is available this year.

(Source: Government of Alberta)