The Alberta Winter Games officially begin this week as young athletes from across the province gather in the Lakeland region for three days of competition and celebration.

Running from February 13 to 16, the 2026 edition of the Games will welcome more than 2,400 athletes, coaches, and technical officials competing in 18 sports, including hockey, curling, speed skating, and volleyball. The event continues a tradition spanning more than five decades, helping young Albertans build athletic skills, community connections, and lifelong memories.

The Games are supported by the Government of Alberta in partnership with Cold Lake, the Municipal District of Bonnyville, Bonnyville, and Glendon. Provincial funding of $1.27 million has been provided to assist with operations, transportation, venues, food services, and promotions.

Beyond the competitions themselves, organizers expect the Games to deliver a significant economic boost to the region, with an estimated $3 million in direct economic impact. Local businesses, restaurants, and accommodations are anticipated to benefit from the influx of athletes, families, and spectators.

Opening ceremonies are scheduled to take place February 13 at the Cold Lake Energy Centre, where athletes and supporters will gather for the lighting of the cauldron and the official start of the festivities.

The Alberta Games serve as an important stepping stone for youth athletes aged 11 to 16, with more than 50 past participants having gone on to compete at the Olympic and Paralympic level. Approximately 1,700 athletes qualified for this year’s Winter Games through regional trials, supported by an estimated 600 coaches and technical officials and nearly 1,500 volunteers.

For many young competitors, the event represents both a personal milestone and a chance to proudly represent their home communities on a provincial stage.

The Government of Canada has announced new funding aimed at strengthening agricultural exports and helping producers navigate global market uncertainty. The initiative introduces two new Market Diversification streams under the AgriMarketing Program, offering financial support to industry organizations and small to medium-sized enterprises seeking new international markets.

According to Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, a total of $75 million will be invested in the AgriMarketing Program Market Diversification streams over five years (2026–27 to 2030–31) to support the Canadian agriculture and agri-food sector — including fish and seafood — in responding to current market instability by encouraging greater market diversification.

Starting February 13, 2026, eligible organizations can apply for funding under both new Market Diversification streams. Details, including eligibility criteria and application guidelines, are available on the program website.

“The AgriMarketing Program Market Diversification streams encourage Canada's agriculture, agri-food, fish, and seafood sectors to seize more global opportunities. By helping industry organizations and exporters expand into emerging markets, we're promoting Canadian products, deepening partnerships, and fostering growth, resiliency, and competitiveness.” — The Honourable Heath MacDonald, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food

The Government of Canada states that this Market Diversification funding is separate from the $129.97 million in AgriMarketing Program funding previously announced under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership. The new funding will support all sectors, with particular focus on those most affected by trade barriers. The investment also expands access to small and medium-sized enterprises, which are not eligible under the core AgriMarketing Program.

Export-ready Alberta food and value-added product suppliers have an opportunity to expand their reach into international markets this spring.

Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation is inviting expressions of interest from businesses interested in participating in a proposed trade mission to Guadalajara, Mexico from May 18–22, 2026, which includes attendance at Expo ANTAD & Alimentaria Mexico 2026.

Expo ANTAD & Alimentaria Mexico is recognized as the largest retail-focused trade show in Mexico and one of the leading food and beverage exhibitions in Latin America. The annual event attracts more than 1,200 exhibitors and over 52,000 attendees from 65 countries, providing significant exposure for participating suppliers.

The mission is aimed at Alberta companies offering value-added food and agricultural products that are prepared to engage in export markets and build relationships with international buyers and distributors.

Businesses interested in participating are encouraged to submit their expression of interest before the February 28, 2026 deadline.

For more information or to express interest, suppliers may contact:

Meghan Horosko – Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Diana De La Huerta – Government of Canada International Trade at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Alberta HUB, the Regional Economic Development Alliance for Northeast Alberta, is leading the delivery of the Northeast Alberta Major Projects Exchange, taking place on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at the St. Paul Recreation Centre (4802 53 Street). The Exchange is the first of 3 or more of its kind: a collaborative regional initiative, delivered in partnership with multiple workforce, industry, training, and economic development stakeholders from across Northeast Alberta.

The Exchange brings together employers, major contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, training providers, workforce development organizations, and economic development partners to strengthen regional readiness and ensure local businesses and workers are positioned to participate in current and upcoming major projects across Northeast Alberta. As large-scale infrastructure, industrial, and capital projects continue to advance in the region, access to a skilled, job-ready workforce and capable local suppliers remains critical. By convening regional partners around shared priorities, the Northeast Alberta Major Projects Exchange focuses on practical, action-oriented connections that reduce barriers between industry demand and regional capacity.

“Preparing Northeast Alberta’s workforce for major projects is about more than filling jobs—it’s about building long-term opportunity,” said Bob Bezpalko, Executive Director of the Northeast Alberta Information HUB (Alberta HUB). “By working collaboratively with regional partners and investing in skills, training, and local talent, we’re ensuring our region is ready to lead, compete, and thrive as major projects move forward. Major projects require a skilled, job-ready workforce, and this Exchange helps ensure Northeast Alberta is prepared.”

During the daytime Exchange, participants will have opportunities to:

• Network directly with major contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers
• Learn how to navigate procurement and prequalification processes
• Explore supplier partnerships and joint-venture opportunities
• Connect with organizations and programs that support business growth and participation
• Gain insight into upcoming major projects in Northeast Alberta
• Strengthen alignment between industry needs and workforce training pathways

An additional evening networking event will be held at Lakeland Brewing at 6:00 pm to provide an accessible option for those unable to attend during the daytime Exchange. The Northeast Alberta Major Projects Exchange is open to employers, contractors, subcontractors, suppliers, training and education providers, workforce development organizations, economic development professionals, and individuals seeking employment or business opportunities related to major projects.

Registration is free but required.

Full event details and registration information are available at ProjectsAlberta.ca, the official website for the Northeast Alberta Major Projects Exchange.

Information provided by Alberta HUB.

Alberta HUB is the Regional Economic Development Alliance representing communities across Northeast Alberta. Alberta HUB leads and supports collaborative initiatives that strengthen workforce development, supplier readiness, investment attraction, and regional economic competitiveness.

Visit the Alberta HUB website at albertahub.com.

When this concept first came to mind, I knew I had to get it out as soon as possible. Very seldom does an idea impress itself upon me so strongly that it forces me to stop everything else and devote my time to seeing it through. As this series is still a work in progress, I felt this platform would be a good place to work out the kinks while not delaying the central message — an indefinable gratitude to those who came before me and acted as mentors, guides, brothers, sisters, mothers, fathers, and so much more. These are the people who helped shape the man I am today. I do not say this to boast, as I truly feel I have little to boast about. What I can say with certainty is that I have been blessed to be in the company of remarkable individuals whose lessons deserve to be heard by more than just me.

For the first week, it feels fitting to mention my first boss, Jim. As a young man fresh out of school, I hadn’t given much thought to a career or “what comes next.” Naturally, I thought the best course of action was to find a job, earn some money, and figure things out along the way. My dad had already been living in Two Hills for some time, and it seemed like a good place to start. He mentioned that his friend Jim owned the local grocery store and might be hiring. To this day, I can’t even remember if I had a résumé or simply showed up, but Jim took a chance and hired me.

One of the first things he stressed to me was, “I’m not your boss — every customer who walks through that door is.” He said this while pointing to the front entrance. “They are the ones who support this store, and through that, they indirectly sign your paycheque.”

The impact of that statement was profound. Even now, I can still feel its weight. Doing one’s duty with a cheerful attitude and treating every customer as if they were the boss changes how you approach not only work, but people in general. At eighteen, I didn’t fully grasp how deep this lesson went. Applied properly — whether in business or employment — it creates a visible shift in how you treat others. Like ripples in a pond, the mindset begins to spread into other areas of life. Before long, people notice, genuine friendships form, and connections deepen in ways you never expected.

To this day, whenever I consider a new idea or venture, I think of Jim and how he might approach the situation. His wisdom, genuine care for people, and ingenuity made it seem as though no problem was beyond solving. I believe many of us who worked with him share this sentiment when I say he is a truly wise man whom I am grateful to have known and worked under. The skills and lessons I learned from him helped me approach everything with confidence balanced by humility, curiosity tempered with caution, and a willingness to think outside the box. For that — and much more — I owe Jim my deepest gratitude.

Our days are often filled with constant noise and very little time. Many of us find ourselves trying to balance work, home life, personal responsibilities, and the unexpected challenges that seem to appear without warning. So when someone suggests, “You should try meditating,” the natural reaction is often, “With what time?”

When we think of meditation, we may picture a perfectly quiet room, soft music, or someone sitting peacefully in nature. In reality, that ideal setting can be difficult to achieve — and thankfully, it is not necessary. Meditation does not require giving up modern comforts or retreating into the wilderness. It can begin right at home, in small and manageable steps.

Even five minutes a day can make a noticeable difference. Regular practice can help reduce stress, improve emotional balance, and create a greater sense of calm during even the most challenging moments.

Mental and Emotional Health Benefits

• Stress Reduction:

Meditation is known to lower cortisol levels — the hormone associated with stress — and reduce overactivity in the brain’s fear response, helping individuals become less reactive to stressful situations.

• Anxiety and Depression Management:

Research has shown that mindfulness practices can help reduce symptoms of anxiety, social stress, and depression while encouraging healthier coping mechanisms.

• Emotional Health and Self-Awareness:

Consistent meditation can foster a more positive outlook on life, improve self-esteem, and strengthen self-awareness.

• Increased Compassion:

Certain techniques, such as loving-kindness meditation, are linked to greater empathy and more positive feelings toward both oneself and others.

Physical Health Benefits

• Better Sleep:

By calming racing thoughts, meditation can make it easier to fall asleep and improve overall sleep quality.

• Heart Health:

Lower stress levels contribute to reduced blood pressure and decreased strain on the heart.

• Pain Management:

Meditation can help increase pain tolerance and shift how discomfort is perceived.

• Immune Support:

Some studies suggest regular meditation may help strengthen immune response and reduce inflammation.

Cognitive and Performance Benefits

• Improved Focus and Concentration:

Meditation strengthens attention span, enhances memory, and improves mental clarity.

• Increased Creativity:

A quieter mind often allows new ideas and creative thinking to surface more easily.

• Enhanced Productivity:

Greater focus and reduced stress can lead to improved performance at work, school, and daily tasks.

Meditation does not need to be lengthy or complicated to be effective. A few quiet moments each day — whether in a chair, on a walk, or simply taking slow, mindful breaths — can be enough to begin experiencing its benefits. Small steps, practiced consistently, can lead to meaningful improvements in overall well-being.

With household expenses on many minds, finding small ways to reduce monthly energy costs can make a noticeable difference over time. While major renovations are not always realistic, simple everyday habits and minor adjustments can help households lower both heating and electricity bills without sacrificing comfort.

Seal Drafts Around Windows and Doors

Cold air entering and warm air escaping forces heating systems to work harder. Weather-stripping or draft stoppers are inexpensive and effective solutions.

Adjust the Thermostat Slightly

Lowering the thermostat by even one or two degrees during the winter — or raising it slightly in the summer — can reduce energy consumption without a noticeable change in comfort.

Switch to LED Lighting

LED bulbs use significantly less electricity and last much longer than traditional incandescent bulbs, reducing both power use and replacement costs.

Unplug Idle Electronics

Devices such as televisions, gaming consoles, and chargers continue to draw power even when not in use. Unplugging or using power bars can help eliminate this “phantom” energy drain.

Wash Clothes in Cold Water

Heating water accounts for a large portion of energy use in laundry. Modern detergents are designed to work effectively in cold water.

Replace or Clean Furnace Filters Regularly

A clean filter allows heating and cooling systems to run more efficiently and can extend the life of the equipment.

Use Natural Light During the Day

Opening curtains and blinds reduces the need for artificial lighting while also providing natural warmth during daylight hours in colder seasons.

Close Doors and Vents in Unused Rooms

Directing heat or cooling only where it is needed prevents wasted energy and helps maintain consistent temperatures in occupied areas.

Run Appliances During Off-Peak Hours

When possible, using dishwashers, laundry machines, and other large appliances in the evening or early morning may help reduce strain on the grid and, in some areas, lower costs.

Be Mindful of Small Habits

Turning off lights when leaving a room, shortening shower times, and keeping refrigerator doors closed are small actions that add up over the course of a month.

While no single change may drastically reduce a bill, combining several of these strategies can lead to meaningful savings over time. Simple awareness and routine adjustments often provide the greatest long-term benefit for households looking to manage expenses more effectively.

The Government of Alberta announced that a new collective agreement has been reached between Alberta Health Services (AHS), provincial health agencies, provincial health corporations, and the Alberta Union of Provincial Employees (AUPE) representing general support services workers.

President of Treasury Board and Minister of Finance Nate Horner confirmed the agreement on February 6, stating that the deal covers approximately 31,000 workers across the province who serve in a wide range of roles within health-care facilities.

According to the minister, the agreement includes compensation increases consistent with other public-sector settlements as well as improved benefits for union members. The announcement also marks the conclusion of collective bargaining with the province’s major health sectors for this negotiation cycle.

Provincial officials say the finalized agreements are intended to provide long-term stability for Alberta’s health-care system while recognizing the contributions of frontline and support staff.

The government expressed appreciation for the work of health-care employees and emphasized that maintaining stable labour agreements is an important investment in services relied upon by communities across Alberta.

OTTAWA, ON — Lakeland Member of Parliament Shannon Stubbs returned to Parliament this week raising concerns related to major project development, economic sovereignty, and grocery affordability for Canadians.

On January 27, Stubbs introduced the first Official Opposition motion of the year calling for a day of debate on Canadian economic sovereignty. The motion proposed the creation of a “Canada Sovereignty Act,” which would aim to encourage domestic investment, remove certain federal regulations impacting resource development, and strengthen protections for Canadian-owned technologies and industries. The motion was seconded by Carol Anstey, MP for Long Range Mountains in Newfoundland and Labrador.

During debate, Stubbs cited delays in major resource and infrastructure projects and referenced investment trends between Canada and the United States. She stated that more than 60 projects across natural resource sectors are currently before federal regulators.

Stubbs also voted in favour of a February 4 Conservative motion calling on the federal government to introduce a food affordability plan focused on reducing grocery costs.

In addition to her parliamentary duties, Stubbs was recently appointed to the Special Joint Committee on the Exercise of Powers Under the Building Canada Act, a committee composed of both Members of Parliament and Senators tasked with reviewing government authority under the legislation.

Stubbs continues to serve as the Conservative Shadow Minister for Energy and Natural Resources and sits on the House of Commons Natural Resources Committee.

Alberta Grains has announced its 2026 executive team and board of directors following the organization’s Annual General Meeting held last week in Edmonton during the CrossRoads Crops Conference. The farmer-directed commission confirmed Scott Jespersen will continue as Chair, Devin Hartzler as Vice-Chair, and Stewart Oke as Second Vice-Chair.

Jespersen, who farms near Spruce Grove, first assumed the role of Chair in July 2025 and will remain in the position for the coming term. Hartzler, based near Carstairs, and Oke, who farms near Delburne, will also continue in their respective leadership roles, providing continuity in the organization’s executive structure.

In a statement, Jespersen expressed appreciation for the opportunity to continue serving Alberta’s grain producers, noting the board’s desire for stability in leadership as the organization continues its work on behalf of wheat and barley farmers across the province.

The AGM also confirmed newly elected and returning regional directors:

• Region 1: David Bishop
• Region 2: Cam MacFarquhar, Devin Hartzler
• Region 3: Greg Bott, Stewart Oke
• Region 4: Bernie Klammer, Mark Smook
• Region 5: Harvey Hagman, Scott Jespersen
• Region 6: Jesse Meyer, Tasha Alexander

Alberta Grains thanked outgoing directors and delegates for their service and contributions to the organization and the broader agricultural sector.

Alberta Grains is a not-for-profit organization representing the interests of Alberta’s wheat and barley producers, with a focus on research, market development, agronomy, and policy advocacy within the province’s grain industry.