Shannon Stubbs, MP Lakeland, Shadow Minister for Energy & Natural Resources / Photo Source: Parliament of Canada

OTTAWA – Lakeland Member of Parliament Shannon Stubbs has continued to criticize the federal Liberal government’s economic and energy policies, raising concerns in Parliament and at committee meetings about inflation, government spending, resource development, and economic growth.

Stubbs, who serves as the Conservative Shadow Minister for Energy and Natural Resources, pointed to recent economic data and argued that federal policies have contributed to rising costs and economic challenges facing Canadians.

Speaking in the House of Commons on June 2, Stubbs referenced newly released economic figures and criticized the government’s handling of the economy. She argued that increased deficits, taxation policies, and regulatory measures have reduced investment opportunities and placed additional financial pressure on Canadian households.

On May 29, following the release of economic data, Stubbs reiterated Conservative concerns about federal spending and development policies. She said the Conservative Party would pursue tax reductions, encourage private-sector investment, and remove regulations it believes hinder economic growth and resource development.

Stubbs also presented the Conservative Party’s dissenting opinion to the Special Joint Committee on the Exercise of Powers Under the Building Canada Act on June 3. The report raised concerns regarding transparency, accountability, and national security considerations related to major infrastructure projects.

During committee discussions, Conservatives proposed amendments to Bill C-5, including measures related to project review timelines, national-interest criteria, and consultation requirements involving Indigenous communities. The proposed amendments were not adopted by the committee majority.

The Lakeland MP also criticized delays in consultations regarding proposed reforms to federal project approval timelines, arguing that additional consultations could slow economic development and infrastructure investment.

Stubbs further voiced support for Bill C-264, a Conservative private member’s bill that seeks to repeal Bill C-48, legislation that restricts certain oil tanker traffic along portions of British Columbia’s northern coast. Supporters of the repeal argue it would expand Canadian energy export opportunities, while opponents have raised environmental concerns.

In addition, Stubbs opposed a proposed increase in fees affecting online streaming services, linking the measure to the federal Online Streaming Act. She argued that additional costs would place further pressure on households already facing higher living expenses.

The MP also questioned government spending on official travel after reports regarding catering expenses associated with Prime Minister Mark Carney’s international trips. Stubbs characterized the spending as excessive and called for greater fiscal restraint.

Stubbs voted in favour of several recent Conservative Opposition Day motions, including proposals related to private property rights, fuel taxes, streaming service fees, and economic policy reforms.

According to Stubbs, the Conservative Party will continue advocating for lower taxes, reduced government spending, regulatory reform, and measures intended to encourage economic growth and resource development.

The federal government has defended its economic policies, arguing that investments, infrastructure spending, and regulatory measures are designed to support long-term growth, affordability, and environmental sustainability.

For now, debate over Canada’s economic direction, energy sector policies, and development regulations remains a central issue in Parliament.

Information for this article was provided by the Office of Shannon Stubbs, MP Lakeland, Shadow Minister for Energy & Natural Resources

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Elections Alberta has launched what it describes as the largest electoral worker recruitment campaign in Alberta's history as preparations continue for the province's referendum scheduled for October 19, 2026.

The independent Office of the Legislature is seeking to hire more than 60,000 election workers to help administer the referendum, making it one of the largest referendum staffing efforts ever undertaken in Canada.

According to Elections Alberta, the scale of the upcoming referendum will be unprecedented. With ten ballot questions planned, the organization expects to print approximately 45 million ballots. Officials say a workforce of at least 60,000 election workers will be needed to meet the legislated requirement of completing the unofficial ballot count within 48 hours.

Chief Electoral Officer Gordon McClure described the referendum as a major undertaking requiring participation from Albertans across the province.

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Ever feel tired or exhausted? Stressed or anxious? It turns out the answer may be as simple as doing something you're already doing right now: breathing.

Learning to control your breathing can offer a variety of benefits for both the body and mind. From professional athletes to military personnel, many people around the world use breathing techniques to help improve focus, manage stress, and promote relaxation.

Here are a few breathing exercises you can try:

Disclaimer: If you experience dizziness, light-headedness, or have chronic respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, consult your doctor before practicing forceful or prolonged breath-retention techniques.

1. 4-7-8 Technique

This technique may help you relax and ease into a restful night's sleep.

• Inhale

Breathe gently through your nose for a count of four.

• Hold

Hold your breath for a count of seven.

• Exhale

Breathe out slowly through your mouth for a count of eight, gently expelling the air while making a slight hissing sound.

Repeat four times.

Try this the next time you feel anxious or are having trouble falling asleep.

2. Box Breathing

Often used by athletes, emergency responders, and others who perform under pressure, box breathing can help promote calm and focus.

• Inhale

Breathe in slowly through your nose for four seconds.

• Hold

Hold your breath for four seconds.

• Exhale

Breathe out slowly and evenly through your mouth for four seconds.

• Hold

Pause for four seconds before beginning the next breath.

Repeat four or five times.

Try this technique the next time you find yourself in a stressful situation where you need to keep a level head.

3. Belly (Diaphragmatic) Breathing

This method encourages deeper, more efficient breathing by engaging the diaphragm.

• Setup

Sit comfortably or lie down. Place one hand on your chest and the other on your belly.

• Inhale

Take a slow, deep breath through your nose. Your belly should rise while your chest remains relatively still.

• Exhale

Breathe out slowly through pursed lips, as though you are blowing out a candle, while gently tightening your stomach muscles.

Repeat for five to ten minutes.

Learning how to control your breathing may help reduce stress, improve relaxation, and support overall well-being when practiced regularly.

It is not very often that a Shoulders of Giants piece is about a literal giant, but anyone who knows Wes probably looks up to him. Yet despite his size, he is always wearing a smile and ready to give the shirt off his back to anyone in need.

What is funny is that when we first met through the Performing Arts Society, we did not like each other for some reason. Years later, after reconnecting, we spent many hours trying to figure out why. At the time, however, we seriously wanted to fight. I had a really big bark back then—one completely disproportionate to my size. I can admit now that I would not have been the victor had a conflict arisen, even with my current level of training, much less the level I had at the time.

We met again years later in St. Paul. I had taken a part-time job at McDonald's, where Wes happened to be working. As soon as we saw each other, our eyes lit up, almost as if they were saying, "Hey! A Two Hills person! I know you!" We quickly forgot our previous clash and became best friends almost instantly.

As we got to know each other, I realized what a genuine heart he has and how deeply he cares for his family, community, and people in general. We shared countless laughs and faced tough times together. Growing up in our beautiful community, we often spent hours doing nothing more than driving around the county and talking. I cannot begin to recount the number of times I laughed so hard that my stomach and face hurt. Even when it felt like my world was spinning out of control, he was the first person I would message. In an instant, he would drop whatever he was doing and be there, no matter when I needed him.

He is the true definition of a friend, and I am sure I am not alone in that opinion. I have no doubt there are many people in the community who have their own stories about Wes and the kindness he has shown them over the years. Though distance and life have taken us down separate paths, he continues to influence my actions and thoughts. To this day, I know that if I needed help and sent him a message, he would be ready to answer the call in a moment.

It is friendships like these that have embedded the community of Two Hills so deeply in my heart and mind. They are friendships I will cherish for the rest of my life.

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The Government of Alberta is marking Canadian Armed Forces Day by recognizing the service and sacrifices of military personnel, veterans, and their families.

In a statement released on June 7, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services Mike Ellis paid tribute to members of the Canadian Armed Forces, highlighting their role in protecting Canada and supporting communities both at home and abroad.

Ellis noted Alberta's long military tradition, which spans more than a century, and acknowledged the many service members who live and work in communities across the province.

"Whether supporting partners overseas or aiding in the response to wildfires and floods in Alberta, they have demonstrated exceptional bravery, dedication and resilience time and time again," Ellis said in the statement.

The minister also reflected on two significant anniversaries being observed in 2026. This year marks the 75th anniversary of Canada's first major North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) deployment, when the 27th Canadian Infantry Brigade was sent to Europe during the early years of the Cold War.

In addition, 2026 marks the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks and Canada's subsequent participation in the Afghanistan mission. Ellis said these milestones reflect Canada's longstanding commitment to collective security, peace, and international stability.

As part of ongoing recognition efforts, members and veterans of the Canadian Armed Forces, along with their immediate families, continue to receive free admission to provincially owned historic sites, museums, and interpretive centres through the CF One program.

The minister concluded by expressing gratitude to current and former members of the Canadian Armed Forces for their service and contributions to Alberta and Canada.

Canadian Armed Forces Day is observed annually as an opportunity to recognize the dedication, professionalism, and sacrifices of military personnel who serve their communities and country.

Information for this article was sourced from the Government of Alberta website.

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Alberta’s government is taking the next step toward expanding passenger rail service across the province, committing $15 million to advance planning and begin implementing recommendations outlined in the newly completed Alberta Passenger Rail Master Plan.

The plan provides a long-term vision for passenger rail development over the next 30 years, exploring opportunities to better connect communities, airports and major economic centres throughout Alberta.

According to the province, the investment will support the next phase of planning, with initial work already underway to examine rail connections between Edmonton and Calgary’s light-rail transit systems and their international airports. The government also plans to engage with industry partners to explore financing models, business opportunities and private-sector involvement in future rail projects.

Premier Danielle Smith said major infrastructure projects require careful planning and strong partnerships.

“Major infrastructure projects don’t happen overnight. They require thoughtful planning, strong partnerships and a clear vision for the future,” Smith said in a statement. “The Passenger Rail Master Plan gives us that foundation.”

Transportation and Economic Corridors Minister Devin Dreeshen noted that rail links between Alberta’s two largest cities and their airports remain a key priority for many residents.

The master plan identifies several potential projects, including a high-speed rail connection between Edmonton and Calgary via Red Deer capable of speeds exceeding 300 kilometres per hour. The proposed service would operate more than once per hour and is viewed as the backbone of the province’s long-term passenger rail vision.

Additional recommendations include higher-speed rail service between Calgary and Banff, as well as airport-express and commuter rail connections serving communities such as Airdrie, St. Albert, Edmonton International Airport and Calgary International Airport.

Airport officials welcomed the announcement, highlighting the potential economic benefits of improved transportation links.

Edmonton International Airport President and CEO Myron Keehn said a rail connection between the airport and downtown Edmonton would improve travel convenience while strengthening the region’s tourism and events sector.

Meanwhile, Calgary Airports President and CEO Chris Dinsdale said enhanced connectivity would support the continued growth of tourism, business and regional transportation networks.

Development of the Passenger Rail Master Plan involved extensive consultation with Albertans, municipalities, Indigenous communities, transportation experts and industry stakeholders. More than 20,000 Albertans participated through surveys, public forums, information sessions and open houses.

The province reported that 80 per cent of survey respondents expressed strong support for expanding passenger rail services.

Funding for the initiative is included in Budget 2026, which allocates $15 million over three years to support the first steps toward advancing passenger rail development in Alberta.

While any future rail network remains years away, the completion of the master plan represents a significant milestone in exploring how passenger rail could play a larger role in connecting Alberta’s communities and supporting economic growth in the decades ahead.

For more information about the Passenger Rail, visit the Government of Alberta website at, www.alberta.ca/passenger-rail

Information for this article was sourced from the Government of Alberta website.

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Alberta producers facing delayed spring fieldwork will receive additional flexibility this growing season as Agriculture Financial Services Corporation (AFSC) has announced temporary extensions to recommended seeding dates and certain crop insurance deadlines for the 2026 crop year.

The decision comes in response to challenging spring conditions across much of the province. Above-average snowfall in April, prolonged winter weather and continued rainfall throughout May have left many fields excessively wet, particularly in central, eastern and northern Alberta, making it difficult for producers to begin seeding operations on schedule.

AFSC says the one-year adjustment is intended to help farmers manage weather-related delays while maintaining access to crop insurance coverage.

“Alberta producers are resilient and have the ability to plant the crop quickly if the weather cooperates,” said Jesse Cole, Manager of Insurance Products and Product Innovation at AFSC.

“However, it is important to help alleviate the pressure that producers are feeling without adding undue risk to the insurance program. To this end, seeding extensions have been granted depending on the crop.”

Under the temporary changes, seeding deadlines for lentils and field peas have been extended in Alberta's North East, North West and Peace regions. Producers who seed these crops within the revised deadlines will remain eligible for crop insurance coverage.

AFSC has also extended recommended seeding dates for several crops in the same regions. Producers who seed within the revised recommended dates will continue to qualify for quality-loss protection. Those who seed after the recommended dates may not be eligible for quality-loss compensation if the cause of loss is not considered widespread within their area.

While the extensions provide some relief, AFSC noted that the annual Land Report filing deadline remains unchanged and must still be submitted by June 20.

The agency encourages producers with questions about their coverage or eligibility to contact their local AFSC office or the Client Care Centre.

Crop insurance in Alberta operates as part of the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a joint federal-provincial initiative designed to support the agricultural sector and help producers manage risk in an increasingly unpredictable environment.

For many Alberta farmers, the extensions offer welcome breathing room as they work to catch up following one of the wettest and most challenging starts to a growing season in recent memory.

Information for article was sourced from the AFSC website.

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Alberta’s government is investing $4 million in a new pilot program aimed at helping experienced trades workers gain certifications more quickly while remaining employed.

The two-year initiative, announced in partnership with the Christian Labour Association of Canada (CLAC), will provide access to an advanced adaptive learning platform designed to prepare workers for certification and Red Seal examinations. The program is intended to address labour shortages in key industries by allowing workers to build skills and earn credentials without stepping away from their jobs.

According to the province, the platform assesses a worker’s existing knowledge and creates a personalized learning pathway that focuses on areas where additional training is needed. By tailoring instruction to individual learners, officials say workers can progress more efficiently while still meeting all certification requirements.

"One of Alberta’s biggest strengths is our workforce," said Joseph Schow, Minister of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration. "With new investment comes new demand for skilled workers to build the projects that choose Alberta. This program builds up our existing workforce and puts us even further ahead by partnering government with industry, delivering real economic results and benefit to Albertans."

The pilot is expected to support at least 200 workers in high-demand trades that play a critical role in Alberta’s economy and major industrial developments. These include welding, steamfitter-pipefitting, instrumentation and ironworking.

Myles McDougall, Minister of Advanced Education, said the investment will help experienced workers obtain credentials faster while supporting major projects across the province.

"Alberta needs more certified trades professionals, and we need them faster," McDougall said. "This investment helps experienced workers build their skills, earn their credentials sooner, and get to work on the projects driving our economy forward."

CLAC, Canada’s largest independent multi-sector union, represents approximately 24,000 workers in Alberta, many of whom are employed in heavy industrial construction and maintenance. The organization will partner with Canadian training provider Built To Learn to deliver the adaptive learning technology.

Dennis Perrin, CLAC’s provincial director for Alberta and Saskatchewan, said the initiative aims to remove obstacles that often delay certification for experienced workers.

"Our members are skilled, committed and ready to be part of the solution to Canada’s growing skilled trades shortage, but too often they face barriers that slow their progress," Perrin said. "This initiative is about breaking those barriers down."

Built To Learn CEO Jason Bakalech said collaboration between government, industry, labour organizations and educators is essential to addressing long-standing workforce challenges.

"For decades, skilled labour shortages have challenged government, industry, labour organizations and educators alike," Bakalech said. "Adaptive learning does not replace traditional training or apprenticeship systems. It enhances them by creating personalized learning pathways and providing data-driven, real-time insights that help workers, educators and employers achieve better learning outcomes."

The province says the pilot program will run from March 27, 2026, to March 27, 2028, through a one-time grant. Participation will be available to individuals registered under Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training’s Trades Qualifier Program who meet existing eligibility requirements.

Officials emphasized that the initiative does not introduce a new certification process and will not alter existing skilled trades certification or Red Seal standards.

The government says lessons learned through the pilot could help shape future efforts to expand access to certification preparation across Alberta, strengthening the province’s skilled workforce and supporting employers facing ongoing labour demands.

For more information about the Apprenticeship and Industry Training Trades Qualifier Program, visit the Government of Alberta website at tradesecrets.alberta.ca/become-certified/trades-qualifier-programs.

Information for this article was sourced from the Government of Alberta website.

(Choice Plus Mural, one of the new beautiful additions to the Two Hills Health Centre / Photo Source: Assisted Living Alberta)

Residents at Two Hills Health Centre are enjoying a more personalized and engaging living environment thanks to a series of quality-of-life improvements introduced through the Quality of Life Chrysalis Project, an initiative led by Assisted Living Alberta and supported through Government of Alberta funding.

The project is designed to transform continuing care spaces into warmer, more home-like environments that support social connection, cognitive function, dignity, and overall well-being for residents.

At Two Hills Health Centre, improvements include interactive murals, personalized door wraps, themed imagery, Sound Off headphones, and accessible raised garden beds. The enhancements help create spaces that reflect residents' identities and experiences while making it easier to navigate the facility.

The visual improvements are intended to support memory and wayfinding while fostering a stronger sense of familiarity and belonging. By incorporating themes and imagery that resonate with residents, the facility has become more individualized and welcoming.

Residents are also benefiting from the addition of Sound Off headphones, which help remove barriers such as background noise and hearing limitations. The technology allows residents to participate more fully in group programming and enjoy immersive experiences throughout the facility.

Outdoor engagement opportunities have been expanded through the installation of raised garden beds, providing residents with accessible ways to garden, spend time outdoors, and remain connected to meaningful activities.

According to Assisted Living Alberta, the Quality of Life Chrysalis Project is a two-year initiative dedicated to creating environmental and quality-of-life enhancements in continuing care centres. The project is inspired by the Butterfly Care Home Approach developed in the United Kingdom and incorporates evidence-based interventions that support memory, social connection, and person-centred care.

Made possible through a $7 million investment from the Government of Alberta, the project is bringing improvements to 26 continuing care facilities across Alberta's Central Zone. The initiative builds on successful care home transformation efforts first introduced at Tofield Health Centre and aims to create living environments where residents experience greater comfort, purpose, and joy as they age.

Project leaders say the Chrysalis Project represents an important step toward creating continuing care environments that feel less institutional and more like home, while supporting residents' emotional, social, and cognitive needs.

For residents and families at Two Hills Health Centre, the improvements are helping create a more inclusive and engaging environment where meaningful connections, personal identity, and quality of life remain at the heart of care.

(Pictured below: Part of the Chrysalis Project, supporting a higher standard of care and quality of life. Photo Source: Assisted Living Alberta)

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Alberta is expanding its efforts to protect natural landscapes while continuing to support the landowners and rural communities who depend on them for their livelihoods.

The provincial government has announced nearly $5 million in new funding aimed at conserving environmentally significant areas across the province through partnerships with landowners, municipalities, and conservation organizations.

At the heart of the initiative is the recognition that conservation and working landscapes can exist side by side. Rather than removing land from productive use, the programs are designed to support stewardship practices that maintain agriculture, grazing, and rural livelihoods while protecting biodiversity, water systems, and native habitats.

Through the Private Land Conservation Program, $2.8 million has been awarded to five projects that will help conserve more than 8,500 acres of private land. These projects are focused on long-term protection agreements with landowners and land trusts, ensuring that ecologically sensitive areas remain intact for future generations.

In addition, the Ecosystem Services Grant Program has provided more than $2.1 million to five further projects aimed at improving land stewardship practices. These initiatives support landowners in maintaining and enhancing ecosystems on their properties, with a focus on soil health, water quality, carbon storage, and wildlife habitat. Together, these projects are expected to support stewardship across at least 8,800 acres.

According to the province, landowners play a central role in conservation efforts, helping to balance economic activity with environmental responsibility.

“Landowners are crucial partners in conservation programs that create opportunities for sustainable land use and keep people working. We’re supporting projects that align conservation goals with landowner needs, maximizing every dollar,” said Grant Hunter, Minister of Environment and Protected Areas.

Among the funded initiatives is a project led by the Milk River Watershed Council Canada, which focuses on supporting ranchers through stewardship-based payments for measurable ecological outcomes on rangelands and riparian areas.

Other projects include the long-term protection of natural woodlands and waterways in the Tawatinaw Valley, as well as conservation efforts in Clearwater County aimed at preserving wetlands and riparian habitat important for species at risk.

Further south, additional initiatives are helping retain grasslands and coulees that provide critical wildlife corridors, pollinator habitat, and natural water filtration systems.

Together, these efforts aim to safeguard Alberta’s watersheds, grasslands, and wetlands while maintaining the productivity and sustainability of working agricultural landscapes.

The Ecosystem Services Grant Program also assists landowners in covering the costs of maintaining lands with high ecological value. These areas not only support biodiversity but also help absorb rainfall, reduce runoff, and contribute to long-term environmental resilience.

Applications for the 2026–27 funding intake for both programs will open in June and remain open until September.

More information is available through the Government of Alberta website.

Information for this article was sourced from the Government of Alberta website.