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The Alberta government is increasing financial support for foster, kinship and permanency caregivers as part of a $3.1 million investment aimed at strengthening care for vulnerable children and encouraging more families to participate in the province’s caregiving programs.

Effective April 1, 2026, licensed foster, kinship and permanency caregivers received a two per cent rate increase to help offset the everyday costs of caring for children, including expenses related to food, clothing and personal care.

The province is also expanding incentives designed to recruit new caregivers. Beginning June 16, referral bonuses for successful caregiver recommendations will increase from previous levels to $1,500. Eligibility for the Refer-A-Foster Caregiver program has also been broadened to include kinship and permanency caregivers, as well as qualifying non-profit organizations such as cultural associations, faith-based groups and community organizations.

Children and Family Services Minister Searle Turton said the measures recognize the dedication of caregivers who provide safe and supportive homes for children in need.

“I am grateful to the compassionate and dedicated caregivers across Alberta who open their homes and hearts to children and youth when they need them the most,” Turton said. “By strengthening the caregiver program, we are helping ensure more children and youth have access to the stable, loving homes they deserve.”

In another change, prospective caregivers will receive financial support while completing the licensing process. Applicants will be eligible for a total of $1,500 paid in two instalments, with $450 provided after pre-service training is completed and the remaining $1,050 issued once they become fully licensed.

The Alberta Foster and Kinship Association welcomed the announcement, saying the additional funding will help caregivers manage rising costs while continuing to provide stable environments for children and youth.

The province is also introducing a new online portal that will allow caregivers to securely access services and submit claims electronically. According to the government, the portal was developed in response to feedback gathered during 2024 roundtable discussions with foster and kinship caregivers.

The funding increase forms part of Budget 2026, which includes more than a five per cent increase in funding for Children and Family Services compared with the previous year. The government says the additional investment is intended to enhance child safety and support services for families and individuals experiencing violence.

Currently, Alberta has 1,476 licensed foster caregiver homes, 2,126 approved kinship care providers and approximately 4,500 families providing permanent homes through adoption or private guardianship.

Visit the following link to watch the news conference: youtube.com/live/PuoqAkd57zM?feature=share.

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

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"I can't do this. This is too hard. I'm not smart enough."

Most of us have experienced moments of self-doubt. Whether facing a challenge at work, school, or in our personal lives, negative thoughts can quickly take hold and undermine our confidence. While occasional self-doubt is a normal part of life, constantly speaking negatively to ourselves can have a lasting impact on our mental well-being.

The good news is that our mindset is not fixed. By learning to challenge negative thought patterns and adopt a more positive outlook, we can improve our resilience, strengthen our mental health, and approach life's challenges with greater confidence.

Science-Backed Benefits of Positive Thinking

Research suggests that maintaining a positive outlook can offer several benefits:

• Health
• May reduce symptoms of depression and stress.
• Can contribute to better cardiovascular health.
• Is associated with greater overall well-being and longevity.
• Productivity and Problem-Solving
• Encourages a focus on solutions rather than obstacles.
• Can improve creativity and flexibility when facing challenges.
• Helps individuals remain motivated when pursuing goals.
• Resilience
• Makes it easier to recover from setbacks and disappointments.
• Encourages a healthier perspective when facing adversity.
• Builds confidence in one's ability to overcome obstacles.

How to Cultivate Positivity

Developing a positive mindset takes practice, but small daily habits can make a significant difference.

• Reframe Negative Thoughts

When self-doubt creeps in, challenge it. Instead of saying, "I can't do this," try asking, "What can I learn from this?" or "What's the next step I can take?"

• Practice Gratitude

Take a few minutes each day to write down three to five things you are grateful for. This simple habit can help shift your focus from what is lacking to what is already good in your life.

• Be Mindful of Your Inputs

The content we consume and the people we surround ourselves with can influence our outlook. Seek out uplifting, educational, and encouraging influences whenever possible.

• Use Positive Self-Talk

Start your day with constructive affirmations such as, "I am capable," "I can handle this challenge," or "I will do my best today." Positive self-talk can help build confidence and reinforce a healthier mindset.

Final Thoughts

Positive thinking is not about ignoring life's difficulties or pretending problems do not exist. Rather, it is about choosing to approach challenges with hope, determination, and a belief that improvement is possible.

A positive mindset will not solve every problem overnight, but it can be the first step toward creating meaningful, long-lasting changes in how we think, feel, and interact with the world around us.

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Albertans living with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) will now have access to a groundbreaking treatment at no cost through Alberta’s Specialized High Cost Drug Program.

The Alberta government announced that Sotatercept, also known by the brand name Winrevair, has been added to provincial coverage for eligible patients. The medication is the first treatment for pulmonary arterial hypertension that targets the underlying biological cause of the disease rather than focusing solely on symptom management.

Pulmonary arterial hypertension is a rare and progressive condition that causes high blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs. The disease places increasing strain on the right side of the heart and can eventually lead to heart failure. While there is currently no cure, new treatment options have offered hope for improved outcomes and quality of life.

According to the province, pulmonary arterial hypertension affects approximately seven to eight Canadians per 100,000 people, including an estimated 270 Albertans. Although the disease can affect individuals of any age or background, women are diagnosed at roughly twice the rate of men.

Alberta Minister of Primary and Preventative Health Services Justin Wright said the new coverage will help improve access to a treatment that has shown promising results for patients living with the condition.

“Pulmonary arterial hypertension is a serious and disabling disease that can dramatically affect a person’s quality of life and place significant strain on families and caregivers,” Wright said. “This new coverage gives Albertans living with this condition access to a groundbreaking treatment that offers hope, improved quality of life and the opportunity to spend more time doing things they love.”

Medical experts have also welcomed the announcement.

Dr. Mitesh Thakrar, a pulmonary hypertension physician at the Peter Lougheed Centre and a board director with the Pulmonary Hypertension Association of Canada, said patients in Alberta have already experienced significant benefits from the medication.

“We have seen the immense benefits of this medication,” Thakrar said. “It is our hope that many patients will have significant and sustained improvements in their disease and quality of life and ability to participate more fully in everyday activities.”

Health Canada has approved Sotatercept for use in Canada, and pricing negotiations were completed through the pan-Canadian Pharmaceutical Alliance. Eligible patients will receive the medication alongside other therapies currently used to manage pulmonary arterial hypertension.

The Specialized High Cost Drug Program, administered by Acute Care Alberta, provides full coverage for eligible medications used to treat rare and complex conditions, including pulmonary arterial hypertension, organ transplant needs and cystic fibrosis.

Provincial officials say the addition of Sotatercept represents another step toward improving access to specialized treatments for Albertans living with serious and life-altering illnesses.

For more information about specialized drug and drug programs available for Albertans, visit the Government of Alberta website at www.alberta.ca/specialized-drug-benefits.

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

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Alberta's government is seeking input from industry stakeholders as it reviews the province's Renewable Fuels Standard, a policy designed to support the use of low-carbon transportation fuels while encouraging economic growth and investment.

The review comes as Alberta looks to modernize the standard to reflect advances in technology, changing market conditions and evolving fuel production methods. Feedback gathered through the engagement process will help inform potential updates aimed at maintaining a flexible and efficient system while supporting the development of low-carbon fuels.

The Renewable Fuels Standard requires fuel suppliers to blend renewable fuels such as ethanol and biodiesel into gasoline and diesel. The policy helps reduce emissions while creating demand for Alberta-produced agricultural, forestry and waste-based feedstocks, including crops such as wheat and canola.

According to the province, fuel suppliers are already exceeding current minimum blending requirements, and new technologies are creating additional opportunities for growth within the sector.

"Technologies have evolved, markets have shifted and new opportunities have emerged since Alberta's Renewable Fuels Standard was introduced in 2011," said Grant Hunter, Minister of Environment and Protected Areas. "This engagement will help ensure the standard reflects the realities and needs of today, supporting low-carbon fuels, attracting investment and creating jobs while keeping fuels reliable and affordable for Albertans."

The engagement process will involve regulated parties, feedstock producers and processors, project developers, industry associations and Indigenous organizations. Alberta officials say the review is intended to ensure the province remains competitive while supporting future investment in renewable fuel production.

Agriculture and Irrigation Minister Tara Sawyer highlighted the role Alberta's agricultural sector plays in the development of renewable fuels.

"Our province's agricultural producers are some of the most innovative in the country, and this opportunity to collaborate on where Alberta should focus its efforts will help build standards that will strengthen the industry," Sawyer said.

The province says engagement activities will take place throughout the summer and will include in-person and online workshops, stakeholder surveys and written submissions.

The Renewable Fuels Standard is scheduled for review by Jan. 1, 2027. Any changes resulting from the consultation process could be implemented as early as Jan. 1, 2028.

Alberta currently has the largest biodiesel and renewable diesel production capacity in Canada, with major facilities located in Lloydminster and Strathcona County.

For more information about the Renewable Fuel Standard, visit the Government of Alberta website at www.alberta.ca/renewable-fuels-standard-engagement.

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

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Alberta students ranked among the highest-performing students in Canada in mathematics, reading and science, according to the latest results from the Pan-Canadian Assessment Program (PCAP).

The 2023 assessment found that Alberta Grade 8 students placed first nationally in science, second in reading and third in mathematics.

According to the results, Alberta students achieved an average science score of 513, ahead of Ontario's 511 and above the national average of 501. In reading, Alberta recorded a score of 508 compared to the national average of 505. Alberta students scored 513 in mathematics, exceeding the national average of 510.

Alberta Minister of Education and Childcare Demetrios Nicolaides said the results reflect the efforts of students, educators and families across the province.

"Alberta's strong performance on PCAP is, above all, a reflection of student success," Nicolaides said in a statement. "Students are gaining the critical skills they need in mathematics, reading and science, thanks to the support of educators, staff and families."

Lara McClelland, Board Chair of STEM Collegiate, said the results demonstrate the effectiveness of Alberta's Kindergarten to Grade 12 education system in preparing students for future opportunities.

"These results affirm the strength of Alberta's Kindergarten to Grade 12 system in building the foundational skills students need to thrive in STEM pathways," McClelland said.

The Pan-Canadian Assessment Program was established in 2003 through the Council of Ministers of Education, Canada (CMEC) and measures student achievement across participating provinces and territories. The assessment evaluates student performance in reading, mathematics and science, with one subject serving as the primary focus during each testing cycle.

Science was the major domain for the 2023 assessment cycle.

The provincial government said it will continue working with school boards and educators to address learning gaps and support student achievement across Alberta.

PCAP now operates on a four-year assessment cycle. Reading will serve as the major assessment domain when the next evaluation is conducted in 2027.

Quick Facts:

• Alberta ranked first in science with a score of 513.
• Alberta ranked second in reading with a score of 508.
• Alberta ranked third in mathematics with a score of 513.
• National averages were 501 in science, 505 in reading and 510 in mathematics.
• The Pan-Canadian Assessment Program was established in 2003 through the Council of Ministers of Education, Canada.
• Reading will be the primary assessment focus for PCAP 2027.

To view the 2023 PCAP results, visit www.cmec.ca/754/PCAP_2023.html

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

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A major manufacturing investment in Alberta has officially opened its doors, bringing new jobs and economic activity to Wheatland County.

CGC Inc. recently celebrated the grand opening of its new wallboard manufacturing plant, a $210-million project that is expected to create nearly 100 permanent full-time jobs while strengthening the supply of building materials across Western Canada.

The facility represents one of the largest recent manufacturing investments in the province and was supported through Alberta's Investment and Growth Fund. Provincial officials say the project demonstrates continued confidence in Alberta as a destination for business investment and industrial development.

The project was first announced in 2022 through a collaborative effort involving CGC Inc., the Government of Alberta, Wheatland County and Invest Alberta. In addition to the nearly 100 permanent positions created by the plant, approximately 200 construction jobs were generated during the facility's development.

According to Alberta's government, the new operation is among the most technologically advanced facilities in CGC's manufacturing network and will help improve the supply of wallboard products for builders throughout Western Canada.

Minister of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration Joseph Schow said investments of this nature highlight Alberta's competitive business environment and the province's ability to attract private-sector growth.

CGC Inc. President Steve Youngblut said the new Wheatland County facility strengthens the company's long-term commitment to Western Canada while creating high-quality jobs and supporting the construction industry with reliable access to building materials.

The project received $3.7 million in support through Alberta's Investment and Growth Fund, a provincial program designed to attract investments that create jobs and stimulate economic growth. Since 2021, the fund has supported 17 projects across Alberta, helping generate nearly 1,400 permanent jobs and more than 1,750 temporary positions while leveraging more than $1 billion in private-sector investment.

Local officials also welcomed the project. Chestermere-Strathmore MLA Chantelle de Jonge said investments such as the CGC facility help strengthen regional economies and create opportunities for local families.

Invest Alberta Acting CEO Keith Bradley noted that the project enhances Western Canada's access to essential building materials while improving supply chain resilience and supporting Alberta's growing manufacturing sector.

Provincial officials say manufacturing investments like the Wheatland County facility play an important role in diversifying Alberta's economy, strengthening supply chains and creating employment opportunities in rural communities.

CGC Inc., founded in 1907, has supplied building materials to Canadian markets for nearly 125 years and continues to expand its presence across the country through investments in modern manufacturing facilities.

For more information about the Investment and Growth Fund, visit the Government of Alberta website at www.alberta.ca/investment-and-growth-fund.

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

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.