News for Toronto and the surrounding area
LATEST ARTICLES FROM THE WETASKIWIN TIMES
Wetaskiwin RCMP have received several reports of attempted grandparent scams in the community. The suspects are claiming to be a “lawyer” for their loved ones who have recently been incarcerated. This scam consists of the “lawyer” using the guise that the family’s loved one has been hurt, is currently incarcerated and as a result requires […]
2024-05-15 06:32
The County of Wetaskiwin, in partnership with Joint Economic Development Initiatives (JEDI), is excited to announce the launch of a new Residential Solar Installation Grant Program aimed at helping County residents reduce their electricity costs through sustainable energy solutions. Thanks to a generous donation of $187,500 from the John Maude and Susan Quinn Charitable Foundation, […]
2024-05-15 06:32
Crime is decreasing in Millet. Wetaskiwin RCMP Insp. John Spaans was at the Millet Town Council meeting May 8 to let Council know police are maintaining their community engagement, crime prevention and community safety priorities. “We haven’t changed much from last year,” he said. When it comes to community safety, they are taking a proactive […]
2024-05-15 06:32
On May 1, Maskwacis RCMP received an urgent 911 call for a serious assault in progress at a residence in Ermineskin Cree Nation. As officers arrived at the property, the attacker fled in an SUV and police gave chase. The pursuit continued into Samson Cree Nation where police deployed a tire deflation device and eventually […]
2024-05-15 06:32
At around 5 a.m. on May 9, Ponoka RCMP received report of a vehicle stolen at gunpoint from outside a residence on 55 St. in Ponoka. Information about the offence and vehicle were passed onto neighbouring detachments and partner agencies. At 1:07 p.m., Maskwacis RCMP received a report of the vehicle being sighted in Maskwacis. […]
2024-05-15 06:32
This year, instead of asking the community for their input on where local RCMP should focus resources, Wetaskiwin RCMP are continuing to work on community engagement, community safety and crime prevention strategies. “I don’t see a sense in changing the priorities because they need more than one year to action and the concerns the community […]
2024-05-15 06:32
On Saturday, a number of organizations hosted events to celebrate mom, including the Church of God’s Car Care Saturday oil change and car wash, Connect Wetaskiwin’s Mother’s Day in Ashoro Park, the Wetaskiwin Royal Canadian Legion’s Strawberry Tea and Market and Millet Lions Mother’s Day brunch. Christina Max
2024-05-15 06:32
Local police want people to be aware of a scam in the community that has seen several people lose thousands of dollars. Recently, Wetaskiwin RCMP began receiving reports of attempted grandparent scams in the community, but at last week’s Town Hall meeting, Wetaskiwin RCMP Insp. John Spaans said several people have lost significant amounts of […]
2024-05-15 06:32
Sunday was a solemn occasion at the Wetaskiwin Peace Cairn to remember the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirited during National Red Dress Day. Red Dress Day was originally inspired by Métis artist Jaime Black’s REDdress art installation in 2010, where red dresses were displayed to symbolize and commemorate the lives of missing […]
2024-05-08 07:14
Construction has begun on the Hope Mission’s permanent homeless shelter in Wetaskiwin. Late last month, workers began work to install the footings that will support Phase One on the project, which will include a kitchen, dining hall and emergency shelter. “It’s exciting. When the project is completed, we will be better equipped to serve our […]
2024-05-08 07:14
A petition is circulating in the Winfield area to keep the Winfield Health Centre open. Alberta Health Services (AHS) recently decided not to its lease at the Winfield Community Health Centre when it comes up for renewal at the end of June, saying the remote location of the community health centre and its lack of […]
2024-05-08 07:14
The Wetaskiwin Airport hosted a 50th anniversary celebration Saturday with food, displays, activities and a demonstration by the Canadian Skyhawks, the Canadian Forces Parachute Demonstration Team based at CFB Trenton in Trenton, ON. The Reynolds Alberta Museum offered free admission for the day and Sunday capped off activities with the annual Run the Runway race […]
2024-05-08 07:14
As people continue to struggle in this economy, the demand for food is increasing, but those who want to help can’t keep food on the shelves. Last week, the Wetaskiwin Salvation Army Food Bank decided to host a “Drop in and Drop Off” food drive initiative to encourage people to drop off donations and take […]
2024-05-08 07:14
Despite assurances from Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s government that Canada’s industrial greenhouse gas emissions would follow a steady downward path in the wake of the 2020 COVID-19 recession, new federal data released May 2 shows the opposite is happening. This raises serious questions about the credibility of the Liberals’ climate change program, to which they […]
2024-05-08 07:14
Anyone who knows me, or reads this column regularly knows I am passionate about democracy and the electoral process. I don’t really care who you vote for — I care that you vote, but recent announcements from the Provincial Government are making me nervous because proposed new legislation could toss election results right out the […]
2024-05-08 07:14
The U16 Sabres Volleyball Club started the season with one goal: to move up tiers. In their U15 year, this team won a provincial silver medal in Tier 6. Coming into their I16 season the team decided their objective would be to battle their way up the rankings and try and get into Tier 4. […]
2024-05-08 07:14
The Millet Lightning Jr. C Hockey Club put the final touches on the 2023/24 season with its first year-end banquet and awards ceremony at the Millet Agriplex Saturday night. Awards were presented to Ethan Sakaluk for Top Scorer and MVP; Koen Hutchinson Rookie of the Year and Unsung Hero went to Connor Dorchester. The family […]
2024-05-01 08:07
Fifty-four students in Norquest College’s Wetaskiwin Campus Transitions to Employment, Health Care Aide and Practical Nursing programs were celebrated with a completion ceremony at the Manluk Theatre Friday. “Today we are witnessing the culmination of all your hard work and dedication,” said Maskwacis-Wetaskiwin MLA Rick Wilson. “As you prepare to embark on a new journey, […]
2024-05-01 08:07
Hello everyone! This is Kamille Espeleta reporting once again from the Town of Ashoro. Today, I would like to tell you about an annual week-long holiday observed in Japan, called Golden Week. Golden Week, is a series of four national holidays closely spaced together that is observed during the end of April and the beginning […]
2024-05-01 08:07
It would be reasonable to assume the Liberal government of Justin Trudeau would have learned from its political forebears that registries are costly and wildly unpopular with voters. The long gun registry, implemented in 1993 by then Prime Minister Jean Chretien, was initially predicted to cost $2 million. By the time of a 2002 audit, […]
2024-05-01 08:07
It’s one thing to have a vision, then collaborate with a partner to help bring that vision to life, but when you add the opinions and ideas of students, it all goes out the window. Last week, Sacred Heart School and Maskwacis artist Byron Samson unveiled four mobile panels that make up a new mural […]
2024-05-01 08:06
Andy and Tina’s Dance FX team just returned from the Glitter and Gold festival in Olds, which happened April 19-21. Our dancers not only make us proud, but the City of Wetaskiwin as well. Andy & Tina’s Dance FX performed over 100 routines over three days and the studio was invited to dance five of […]
2024-05-01 08:06
Hundreds of young performers from across the Wetaskiwin area took to the stage during the Wetaskiwin Music Festival Association’s 45th annual Wetaskiwin Music Festival April 23-28. This year saw the return of bands, which haven’t participated since the COVID pandemic in 2019. This year also saw a return of Speech Arts — a class which […]
2024-05-01 08:06
In his State of the County address to members of the Leduc, Nisku and Wetaskiwin Chamber of Commerce Friday, Wetaskiwin County Reeve Josh Bishop said County Council and Administration remain committed to a slow and gradual approach when it comes to providing services to its ratepayers. Passing a $45.8 million budget this year, Bishop said […]
2024-05-01 08:06
Clean-up of the remains of the former Visitor Information Centre is set to start soon. During Monday’s regular City of Wetaskiwin council meeting, Council approved a development permit for the demolition of the building after it caught fire and was destroyed last November. Because the property was designated as Direct Control, the application needed to […]
2024-04-24 06:56
A decision to not hand in the signatures collected during a recall petition against Wetaskiwin Mayor Tyler Gandam is a deviation from provincial legislation. On Feb. 8, Debby Hunker initiated a process to recall Gandam. She had until April 12 at 4:30 p.m. to submit a petition with 5,062 signatures for him to be recalled. […]
2024-04-24 06:56
Wetaskiwin City Council supports Alberta Municipalities’ (ABmunis) position in speaking out against proposed changes to the Municipal Government Act which include the introduction of political parties at the municipal level. Council unanimously approved the support of this position during its regular Monday, April 8, meeting. “Most issues faced by Council are practical challenges that are […]
2024-04-24 06:56
The bleachers and viewing area at the Co-op Competition Pool at the Manluk Centre were packed as the Wetaskiwin Water Lilies artistic swim club demonstrated their talent, ability and athleticism recently. The Water Lilies have been swimming together for the past three years, but this was their first public performance. “As a kid, I had […]
2024-04-24 06:56
Having identified low productivity and innovation as Canada’s “Achilles heel” when it comes to economic growth in its 2022 federal budget, the Trudeau government did almost everything possible to undermine both in its 2024 budget released last week. Two years ago in her budget speech, Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland warned that Canada is a laggard […]
2024-04-24 06:56
The City of Wetaskiwin is teaming up with Community Futures to help young entrepreneurs this summer during Lemonade Day Saturday, June 15. Lemonade Day is a free, fun, experiential learning program that teaches kids how to start, own and operate their very own business — a lemonade stand. To date, 16 kids have registered for […]
2024-04-24 06:56
Since the end of February, MLAs across Alberta have been engaged with the duties of presenting, considering, debating, and voting on proposed legislation for Albertans. You may have heard about Bill 18, the Provincial Priorities Act. This bill is about preventing federal overreach into areas of provincial jurisdiction. Very basically, this legislation would require provincial […]
2024-04-24 06:56
Why is it so hard for people to accept someone wanting to do something to improve their community? Last week was National Volunteer Week and organizations across the region took some time to thank the people who step up to freely give their time and talents in support of organizations and events they feel passionate […]
2024-04-24 06:56
Saturday night saw the latest members to be inducted into the Wetaskiwin and County Sports Hall of Fame honoured at the Best Western Wayside Inn. This year, Danny Gusdal, Rob Hartnell, Harold Parfett and the 1968 Wetaskiwin Bantam Fastball were honoured during the 16th Induction Ceremony that now has 450 inductees memorialized on the walls […]
2024-04-17 07:38
High winds, dry conditions and a number of fires already have area fire departments working to minimize fire conditions. Last week, Millet’s Fire Dept. Responded to three fires involving grass and structures. Millet Deputy Fire Chief Trevor Palmer said crews were called out Wednesday to a property north of Lansdowne Park. “It came in as […]
2024-04-17 07:37
Tyler Gandam will remain as Wetaskiwin’s mayor after the City of Wetaskiwin did not receive a completed recall petition against him Friday. Gandam said he wasn’t surprised, calling it a “waste of time” and the Recall Petition process has been weaponized for political purposes. “I really hope the Provincial Government looks at this and either […]
2024-04-17 07:37
A Millet resident wants to see the Town of Millet encourage home owners to install solar panels by offering a financial incentive. Dave Horner, who built a solar heated home in Washington State in the late 1970s, and now works with Kuby Renewable Energy — solar power contractors based out of Edmonton — was at […]
2024-04-17 07:37
The Wetaskiwin Health Foundation’s 2024 Olympic-themed Ladies Night Out saw 150 women gather at the Wetaskiwin Co-op Place Rec. Hall for an evening of fun and games to support the Foundation’s Give to Life – Emergency Care campaign. Teams representing 15 different nations competed in 10 ‘minute-to-win-it’ style events, all eagerly vying for the gold […]
2024-04-17 07:37
There’s an adage about justice delayed being justice denied. Canada should rewrite that: Justice denied is justice denied. Once again, a trial has collapsed because of the chronic failure of the federal government to appoint judges in a timely fashion. The latest case is that of an uncle accused of taking sexual photographs of his […]
2024-04-17 07:37
To the Residents of Wetaskiwin, My name is Amanda and I have lived in Wetaskiwin for more than a decade. When I first arrived in Wetaskiwin, I was a newcomer who knew little about the city or its offerings. It has become evident to me that it is easy to criticize without fully understanding what […]
2024-04-17 07:37
Wetaskiwin’s Mayor believes new Provincial legislation will make it harder for municipalities to access federal dollars. Last Wednesday, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith tabled Bill 18 — the Provincial Priorities Act, 2024. Smith said the move will ensure federal funding is aligned with provincial priorities, listing net zero housing, net zero electricity, and safe supply as […]
2024-04-17 07:37
The Wetaskiwin Curling Club wrapped up the 2023/24 season by honouring some outstanding curlers and volunteers Saturday. Volunteer of the Year, an award recognizing someone from the club who is committed to helping the club in any capacity needed, went to Deanne Bye. Best Sportsmanship of the Year, which recognizes the player who values fair […]
2024-04-10 06:58
A Calgary man is facing multiple charges after he was found in possession of a stolen vehicle outside Wetaskiwin last week. Just after 6 p.m. April 6, a Wetaskiwin RCMP members was patrolling the area near the Bear Hills truck stop on Hwy. 2 when he located a GMC one-ton truck that had been stolen […]
2024-04-10 06:58
An Indigenous business that helps provide food security will be able to expand, thanks to a Provincial Government grant. Last week, Minister of Indigenous Relations and Maskwacis-Wetaskiwin MLA Rick Wilson was in Montana First Nation to announce Alberta’s government is increasing the Aboriginal Business Investment Fund (ABIF) by $2.5 million for the second year in […]
2024-04-10 06:58
A local author’s first book is out of this world. Self-published author and Wetaskiwin resident James R.D. Hilton is a sci-fi enthusiast, and a not-so-closeted Trekkie who writes the stories he always wanted to read and is now eager to share his debut adventure with the universe. His previous writing credits include several short stories […]
2024-04-10 06:58
The Millet Agriplex will be rocking as a new music festival comes to town. Decimate Metalfest is set to hit the stage June 7 and 8, featuring a range of music from rock to metal to punk. Festival found Sloan Voxx said they’re excited to bring the family-friendly festival to Millet, with a plan to […]
2024-04-10 06:58
The County of Wetaskiwin and Nova Scotia based Sustane Technologies Inc. proudly announce a collaborative venture which will increase sustainability and drive economic growth by transforming waste into valuable resources. This partnership will adapt Sustane’s award-winning and proven technologies specifically for Alberta and will set a precedent as the first end to end circular waste […]
2024-04-10 06:58
Hello everyone! I hope you are all doing well. Hopefully the weather in Wetaskiwin has gotten a little warmer compared to the previous months. The weather here in Ashoro has certainly been getting better by the day. Although the mornings and evenings are still relatively cool, the afternoons are warm and pleasant. At this time […]
2024-04-10 06:58
Revealing testimony from the inquiry into foreign interference in this country’s elections has shown how our democratic process may have been compromised. Questions were raised about how Liberal Party nominations are run, especially in safe Liberal ridings. There was testimony that, in 2019, international students from China, some as young as 14, were ordered onto […]
2024-04-10 06:58
A Wetaskiwin archer took home the top prize at the NASP Provincials competition in Edmonton recently. Clear Vista School’s Jenny Kohut came in first among Grade 7 girls, and finished seventh among almost 800 female archers in the Middle School Girls category, with a score of 284, helping Clear Vista to its fifth place finish […]
2024-04-03 06:04
As of April 1, seniors will be getting a break on personal registry services. Last week, the Alberta government announced Alberta seniors who are 65-years-old and older will receive a 25 per cent discount on personal registry services. “Last year, we promised Alberta seniors we would reduce their costs at registry offices and on April […]
2024-04-03 06:04
The City unveiled its new Community Safety and Well-being Strategy , which focuses on taking a proactive approach to risk management and mitigation in addition to finding collaborative opportunities to address the root causes of crime. The City would like to express its sincerest appreciation to all those who participated in developing the strategy, either through […]
2024-04-03 06:04
Millet Town Council voted in favour of improving safety at its civic offices last week, During the March 27 regular Town Council meeting, Chief Administrative Officer Lisa Schoening said following a violent incident at Edmonton City Hall earlier this year where an individual fired shots and thew a Molotov Cocktail inside the building Millet’s Administration […]
2024-04-03 06:04
While signatures are being collected for a petition to recall Wetaskiwin Mayor Tyler Gandam, the City is considering its next steps if a petition is presented to the City. At the March 25 regular Council meeting, Kevin Bamber, manager of Fleet and Facilities, presented a report on what will happen if a petition is presented […]
2024-04-03 06:04
This summer, a local business is testing an idea designed to bring the community together and support non-profit organizations. Stacey Eckenswiller, owner of Forgotten in Time Antique Mall on Main Street Wetaskiwin, moved to the city just over a year ago from Penticton, which boasts a bustling market that draws vendors and visitors from all […]
2024-04-03 06:04
Local and area residents have increased access to care with the recruitment of a new family physician in the community. Dr. Emadeddin Ben Khalifa is now practising at Wetaskiwin Tower Clinic. He invites new patients to call the clinic at 780-352-9700 to arrange a meet and greet. New patients will be required to complete and […]
2024-04-03 06:04
Since taking over operation of Wetaskiwin’s handi-bus service, the Wetaskiwin Transportation Coalition has seen the service grow — but it hasn’t been without growing pains. At the March 25 Wetaskiwin Committee-of-the-Whole meeting, Marilyn Connor, representing WCT, presented a report to Wetaskiwin City Council. “Since June of 2023 our coalition has been actively working with the […]
2024-04-03 06:04
Any young women considering playing tackle football still have a few days to register. Wetaskiwin and District Amateur Football board member Kevin Lonsdale said the all-female tackle program has been growing since it was started five years ago. This year, the Warriors will be fielding U19 and U16 teams and, even though practices have started, […]
2024-03-27 08:22
Soccer players, their parents and fans will be able to continue parking on the grass next to the Paul Pay Soccer field this season. Earlier this year, when residents on Porter Ave. asked to be allowed to park behind their homes on property owned by the Town of Millet, Millet Council was asked if parking […]
2024-03-27 08:22
After several months of community consultation and the announcement from the Province that a Wetaskiwin Regional Public Schools has received approval for a new K-8 school to replace the existing Norwood Elementary in the city, school board trustees are moving the process forward. During the March 20 WRPS board meeting, trustees thanked the staff, parents, […]
2024-03-27 08:22
A plan to remove the modified school calendar from Wetaskiwin Regional Public Schools in the upcoming school year caught many parents off guard, but WRPS’s Superintendent said the operational decision is all about improving opportunities for students and keeping schools opening as enrolment declines. “We have an opportunity to address inconsistencies across the Division that […]
2024-03-27 08:22
While members of Wetaskiwin City Council understand why a motion was put forward to suspend putting more money into the City’s Public Art Reserve, they did not support the motion Monday. During discussions about the Art Reserve at the March 11 Council meeting, Coun. Dean Billingsley asked Council to consider suspending contributions to the public […]
2024-03-27 08:22
A local man has been charged after the Wetaskiwin Crime Reduction Unit seized a quantity of drugs and cash. Kenneth Croxall, 54, was arrested after RCMP began an investigation on drug trafficking within the community in January. On March 21, Wetaskiwin CRU executed two search warrants resulting in the seizure of: 450 grams of methamphetamine, 56 […]
2024-03-27 08:22
Wetaskiwin RCMP are asking for the public’s help in identifying three men suspected of stealing more than $5,000 worth of power tools from Canadian Tire earlier this month. Police say that around 10 a.m. March 8, three male suspects were at the Canadian Tire in Wetaskiwin. These three individuals managed to access the locked shelves […]
2024-03-27 08:22
Since the Trudeau government insists 80% of Canadian households paying the federal carbon tax receive more in rebates than they pay in carbon taxes, here’s what independent, non-partisan Parliamentary Budget Officer Yves Giroux said when he examined the carbon tax last year. “When both fiscal and economic impacts of the federal fuel charge are considered, […]
2024-03-27 08:22
Almost a year after announcing a problematic intersection in Millet would be getting the town’s first traffic light, Millet Town Council awarded the tender to Park-Aid Asphalt and Maintenance at the March 13 regular Millet Town Council meeting. Last March, Council approved a plan to install at light at the Hwy. 2A- Hwy. 616 intersection […]
2024-03-20 07:19
In response to the increasing prevalence and harmful impact of misinformation within the community, Wetaskiwin City Council directed Administration to adopt a robust approach to address the issue. To that end, Administration developed and will be sharing terms of engagement to govern the City’s official social media platforms. Comments that contain misinformation or are abusive […]
2024-03-20 07:19
Sacred Heart Church in Wetaskiwin is working to feed thousands of people, at home, in other parts of Canada and around the world. Coordinator Theresa Doherty said she had participated in a project in Sherwood Park and thought, “why couldn’t we do that here.” The project will see the collection of monetary donations that will […]
2024-03-20 07:19
Constituency Week is always the best! Huge shoutout to all those constituents who took the time to schedule meetings with me March 4-8. What a pleasure it was to catch up with you; to hear your thoughts on issues; to help find answers to your questions; to share in your excitement about upcoming projects; to […]
2024-03-20 07:19
Remember at the start of the pandemic in early 2020 when politicians at all levels of government united to combat racism against Canadians of Chinese origin? Remember when then-federal Liberal health minister Patty Hajdu, then-Ontario Progressive Conservative health minister Christine Elliott and then-Toronto mayor John Tory met at a dim sum restaurant in Toronto’s Chinatown, […]
2024-03-20 07:19
It was a little slushy out on the lake, but those who took in this year’s Pigeon Lake Chamber of Commerce’s Ice Golf Tournament donned their St. Patty’s finest and teed off Saturday afternoon for a round of ice golf. Christina Max
2024-03-20 07:19
I have several questions for Wake Up Wetaskiwin: Why are you making (Wetaskiwin Mayor) Tyler (Gandam) your scapegoat? As you know, there are seven votes…one for each member of Council. Tyler has only one vote. However, you imply that he is to blame for every problem that Wetaskiwin may have. How will you “Change the […]
2024-03-20 07:19
Re: Millet brings in lifetime licensing for dogs, Wetaskiwin Times March 6, 2024 Millet did not just introduce lifetime dog licensing. Licensing within the Town of Millet was $50 per year up until 2012 when it was changed to a lifetime license fee of $80. This has not been increased or changed since 2012. With […]
2024-03-20 07:19
It was a day full of fun and memories as the Winfield Arena was officially renamed the Woody Johnson Arena last week. Featuring a Winfield Hockey Program alumni round-robin tournament and the official ceremonies, including a blanket ceremony, the renaming ceremony took place March 3 as a way for the County of Wetaskiwin and the […]
2024-03-13 06:01
This year an outstanding group will be inducted into the Wetaskiwin and County Sports Hall of Fame, including Builder Danny Gusdal. Gusdal taught and coached at Wetaskiwin Composite High School for 21 years. He coached Wetaskiwin high school football and golf and community hockey. During his years of coaching his teams won three football league […]
2024-03-13 06:01
Winfield residents can expect an outage at the water treatment plant next week. Wetaskiwin County sent a notice out last week to inform residents and business, there would be a temporary service interruption is necessary for the replacement of a distribution header, a crucial part of the water supply infrastructure Wednesday, March 20, from midnight to 8 […]
2024-03-13 06:01
On March 16, the Millet & District Museum & Archives will be holding an opening for their new upcoming exhibit At Your Leisure: Recreation in Alberta. The exhibit has been designed and curated by the museum’s three Young Canada Works interns and will examine leisure in both Alberta’s past and present. Visitors will see several displays […]
2024-03-13 06:01
Who in a Western democracy was not touched by the moving footage of mourners placing flowers on the coffin of Russian dissident Alexei Navalny? A fierce critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Navalny died while serving a 19-year sentence in an Arctic penal camp. He was a courageous fighter who battled to bring about the […]
2024-03-13 06:01
How was your Monday? Or are you still adjusting to the loss of an hour of sleep, even if we just gained an extra hour of daylight? Yep, we turned the clocks ahead an hour and while it’s a great way to remind ourselves to also test our smoke detectors and change the batteries, I […]
2024-03-13 06:01
I’ve lived in Wetaskiwin over 60 years and have seen many changes. Our community was cohesive and there were always some problems, but the spirit of co-operation and caring brought cohesiveness. North-Am Carnival, Gingerbread and Glitter, Fair Days, and events brought the community together. Wetaskiwin was acclaimed for Volunteerism and Generosity. We had many Service […]
2024-03-13 06:01
Hello everyone! Today, I would like to tell you about a Japanese annual event called White Day. White Day is celebrated annually on March 14, exactly one month after Valentine’s Day. This day first came to be during the 1970s, when a small sweets shop in the City of Fukuoka came up with the idea. […]
2024-03-13 06:01
**UPDATE: LOCATED: RCMP are pleased to report that Danica Bull has been located safe. We would like to thank the public and media for their assistance ••• Wetaskiwin RCMP are asking for public assistance to locate 15-year-old Danica Bull of Wetaskiwin after she was reported missing March 1. Bull was last seen leaving her residence […]
2024-03-05 17:00
Alberta’s Ministry of Municipal Affairs has clarified the number of signatures needed for the petition to recall Wetaskiwin Mayor Tyler Gandam to be legitimate. Earlier this month, Wetaskiwin resident Debby Hunker delivered a notice to City Hall Feb. 8 to launch a petition to recall Gandam, saying a number of citizens had lost confidence in […]
2024-03-05 17:00
The Alberta government declared an early start to wildfire season, Wetaskiwin County is reminding ratepayers they need a fire permit if they are planning any kind of fire, other than a campfire or burning barrel and Millet’s Fire Chief is hoping the dry winter won’t be followed by a drier Spring. Millet Fire Chief Steve […]
2024-03-05 17:00
Anyone who wants to stay on top of crime in the area can download a new app. During Wetskiwin City Council’s Feb. 26 meeting, Wetaskiwin RCMP Insp. John Spanns told Council about the RAVE app and how it can benefit police and residents. “It’s really easy and I think once this catches on and we’re […]
2024-03-05 17:00
Wetaskiwin RCMP found a stolen gun, ammunition and drugs during a recent traffic stop. On Feb. 7, Members of RCMP’s Wetaskiwin Crime Reduction Unit were conducting proactive patrols in Wetaskiwin when officers stopped a Mazda 3 for a violation of the vehicle equipment regulation. During the traffic stop, officers observed open alcohol in the vehicle. […]
2024-03-05 17:00
Wetaskiwin RCMP are asking for public assistance to locate 15-year-old Danica Bull of Wetaskiwin after she was reported missing March 1. Bull was last seen leaving her residence in Wetaskiwin Feb. 25 and has not returned home. There is a concern for her safety and wellbeing. Bull is described as being 5’8” tall and weighing approximately […]
2024-03-05 17:00
With the approval of Millet’s Fees Bylaw, dog owners will need to pick up new licences for their canine companions. At the Feb. 28 Millet Town Council meeting, Council gave three readings to 2024-02 Fess Bylaw, which includes lifetime licencing for dogs in town. Council had been considering implementing a $150 lifetime animal licence for […]
2024-03-05 17:00
When it comes to the Trudeau government’s long-awaited online harms bill released last week, the devil will be in the details. Four of the seven categories the legislation is aimed at removing from social media appear to be reasonable, although it will depend on precise definitions and enforcement in each category. Those are (1) content that sexually […]
2024-03-05 17:00
As an out transgender man, I’m disappointed not just in our Premier, but also the swaths of people coming out to show their support for her attacks on trans youth. I thankfully made it out of my teens alive, not something that all trans folks can say. And for most of my teens, I didn’t […]
2024-03-05 17:00
An extreme snow advisory was lifted and long idle shovels and snowplows were pulled out Monday morning as communities began digging out after 10 to 20 cm of snow fall on the region overnight Sunday. Snowfall and extreme weather warnings were called off Monday for Edmonton and surrounding areas, but the winter cold is expected to […]
2024-02-27 17:00
Work to make one of the busiest emergency departments in Central Alberta is moving along. In Mach 2021, the Alberta Government announced it would provide $3.8 million in funding from the Rural Health Facilities Revitalization Fund to renovate the emergency department triage area at the Wetaskiwin and District Hospital and Care Centre and a further […]
2024-02-27 17:00
On Saturday, local businesses were recognized for their outstanding service during the Leduc, Nisku and Wetaskiwin Regional Chamber of Commerce’s Wetaskiwin Business Awards Gala at The Glens. Christina Max photos
2024-02-27 17:00
A new Leger poll reveals the Trudeau government is once again out of touch with the views of Canadians when it comes to Alberta Premier Danielle Smith’s proposed transgender policies. While Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the Liberals have been fear-mongering about these policies, the national online survey of 2,439 adult from Feb. 9 to […]
2024-02-27 17:00
Thousands of Albertans indicated strong opposition to adding political party labels to municipal elections ballots, according to newly-obtained documents, while the organization that represents 265 municipalities across the province is now calling on the government to scrap the idea. Postmedia obtained the results via a freedom of information request of the open-form answers to the […]
2024-02-27 17:00
I’d really like to know why the UCP Government thinks bringing political parties into municipal politics is a good idea — especially when it’s not something most Albertans want. Postmedia recently obtained the results via a freedom of information request of the open-form answers to the government’s online engagement survey on potential changes to the Local […]
2024-02-27 17:00
“Our soul waits for the Lord; he is our help and shield. Our heart is glad in Him, because we trust in His holy name. Let your steadfast love, O Lord, be upon us, even as we hope in you.” – Psalm 33:20-22 This month marks the beginning of Lent: a 40-day season of reflection […]
2024-02-27 17:00
Hello, My name is Joyce Lindemulder. I came across your article published on Nov 7, 2019 about Wetaskiwinians who served in the Wars. I was looking for information on the RCAF flight crew that is buried in Ter Apel, the Netherlands. I wanted to share, (and perhaps you can pass it on to family that […]
2024-02-27 17:00
Feb. 19 Free Family Day Events Feb. at the Lakedell Ag Society Grounds 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Wagon Rides and Outdoor Fun, Free Hot Dogs & Hot Drinks 7:00 PM: Fireworks Sponsored by: County of Wetaskiwin FCSS and the Lakedell Agricultural Society Feb. 20-23 Senior Bus Trip going to Cow Patti Dinner Theatre March […]
2024-02-20 17:00
Parking on the back end of Porter Ave. needs more investigation before Millet Town Council can decide if they will allow it. At the Feb. 21 regular Town Council meeting, Council received two more letters from residents asking to be allowed to park on the property behind their homes after a couple made a similar […]
2024-02-20 17:00
Millet’s Town Council is putting their support behind a National Police Federation’s need to increase Alberta RCMP’s resources. Millet’s Chief Administrative Officer Lisa Schoening said since 2017 Alberta’s investment to the RCMP have been minimal, forcing the service to cut its budget and operate under-resourced. In 2021, the Province changed the Policing Funding Model so […]
2024-02-20 17:00
Motorists in Millet’s Moonen Heights subdivision will need to be aware of a drop in speed soon. At the Feb. 14 regular Millet Town Council meeting, Council approved a motion to lower the speed limit from 50 km-h to 30 km-h throughout the residential subdivision. At the Nov. 8, 2023 council meeting, a resident wrote […]
2024-02-20 17:00
Millet Town Council will continue to reserve the tennis courts near the Millet Civic Centre for a future skate park. During the Feb. 14 regular Council meeting, Friends of the Millet Youth Society member Kelly Winkler asked Council to consider extending the reservation of the land as the original two-year deadline was closing in. Winkler […]
2024-02-20 17:00
Anyone who hasn’t shared their thoughts with Wetaskiwin Regional Public Schools on what the future of schools will look like has until Feb. 23 to fill out the survey. While WRPS has asked the Provincial Government for two new schools in the division, the survey will help trustees decide on grade reconfigurations and programming, whether […]
2024-02-20 17:00
Police are investigating another murder on 6 Mile on Samson Cree Nation. On Feb. 11 at 12:15 p.m. Maskwacis RCMP received a report of a deceased person in an abandoned residence on 6 Mile on Samson Cree Nation. Upon arrival, police located a deceased male. The circumstances around the death were suspicious and the Alberta […]
2024-02-20 17:00
The draconian reaction of federal politicians to Alberta Premier Danielle Smith’s very sensible announcement of a new policy on invasive medical treatment for young children is disturbing. To recap: Smith announced recently that her government would not permit puberty blocker treatment for children 16 and under and only allow it for those 16 and 17 […]
2024-02-20 17:00
On man is dead following a collision on Hwy. 13 Friday. Just before 3:30 p.m., Feb. 9 Wetaskiwin RCMP received a report of a serious two-vehicle collision on Hwy. 13 and Range Rd. 261. Upon arrival, investigators observed a sedan was struck by a half-ton pick-up truck. Traffic was diverted while emergency crews tended to […]
2024-02-13 17:00
Alberta RCMP have noted a decrease in Theft of Motor Vehicles, and Theft from Motor Vehicles in 2023 in RCMP jurisdictions, as compared to the previous year. In February 2023, there were 544 Theft of Motor Vehicles (a 12% decrease from 616 in February 2022) and 517 Theft from Motor Vehicles (a 20% decrease from […]
2024-02-13 17:00
Wetaskiwin City Council members held a Special Council meeting Feb. 5. The meeting was in camera to discuss the possibility of extending the ice at Co-op Place. During Monday’s regular council meeting, Council heard a full report from Administration. General manager of Community and Protective Services Paul Edginton said, “I’m here to provide an overview […]
2024-02-13 17:00
The future of the BoardRider at the Manluk Centre will be up to the community. The surf simulator was installed in 2013, but closed when the pool was closed due to COVID restrictions in 2020. A few months after the BoardRider was closed the holding tank, where the turbines are housed, was drained. When the […]
2024-02-13 17:00
There’s a lot of excitement around an idea that has been floated in Wetaskiwin for a decade. Last week, the Wetaskiwin Spray Park Committee hosted a pair of round table meetings to share where the spray park project is at and get input from the community on what they’d like to see. Last year, City […]
2024-02-13 17:00
Chief Wilton Littlechild and the Ermineskin Cree Nation leadership celebrated a historic decision made by the Supreme Court of Canada last week. On Friday, Canada’s Supreme Court upheld the entirety of Ottawa’s 2019 Act respecting First Nations, Metis and Inuit children youth and families, when it affirmed Indigenous Peoples have an inherent right of self-government […]
2024-02-13 17:00
The Bear Hills Casino & Travel Resort, located just off the QEII between Wetaskiwin and Ponoka, is set to open in Spring 2024. The first phase of the development will offer more than 80 full and part-time jobs, making the Bear Hills Casino one of the largest employers in the region. In preparation for opening, […]
2024-02-13 17:00
TC Energy is pleased to share that Tyler Ermineskin, has been awarded an Indigenous Legacy Scholarship. Ermineskin is attending the University of Alberta, and is a second year law student. “I am from the traditional territory of Treaty Six, Neyaskweyak/Ermineskin Cree Nation. My English name is Tyler Ermineskin, and my Cree name is Nihkamo Pehyesis, […]
2024-02-13 17:00
While an investigation into murder in Maskwacis is ongoing, police are able to provide more information this week. Alberta RCMP Media Relations Cpl. Troy Savinkoff said police were originally called in to assist EMS after a 25-year-old man from Ermineskin was found injured on 6 Mile Road, north of Hwy. 611 Jan. 28 at 11:30 […]
2024-02-06 17:00
Millet residents were able to wash a load of laundry and put a load of dishes in the dishwasher Friday after EPCOR lifted the water restrictions that had been in place across the Capital region since last Monday. Millet joined people in the Edmonton region, including Sherwood Park, St. Albert, Stony Plain, Spruce Grove, Leduc, […]
2024-02-06 17:00
Two people from the area have been charged and the Director of Law Enforcement is investigating after Leduc RCMP were involved in a shooting in Leduc last week. After receiving a report of a suspicious person Jan. 30, at approximately 7:22 p.m., Leduc RCMP stopped a Dodge pick-up on Capris Road in Leduc. During the […]
2024-02-06 17:00
The first round of Wetaskiwin Regional Public School’s consultations with parents is over and now they can see what came out of those consultations. With declining birth rates and declining enrolments, WRPS is looking at how to grow programs, while providing program equity and rural sustainability. Between 2015 and 2023, there was some increase in […]
2024-02-06 17:00
Wetaskiwin is its own worst enemy. This was part of the message from Wetaskiwin’s Economic Development manger Vern May during his Uncensored: The obstacles and opportunities for growth in Wetaskiwin presentation to members of the Leduc, Wetaskiwin and Nisku Regional Chamber of Commerce Friday. “If we intend to create an impactful and positive outcome, we […]
2024-02-06 17:00
A key challenge facing Canada’s public inquiry into foreign interference is to determine how Canadians of Chinese, Iranian and Russian origin can be protected from threats, intimidation and blackmail by these dictatorships. Members of these diaspora communities, who courageously and publicly oppose these regimes and their attacks on fundamental human rights, are often targeted by […]
2024-02-06 17:00
There are mixed opinions on Premier Danielle Smith’s proposed policies impacting transgender people. “As an out transgender man, I’m disappointed not just in our Premier, but also the swaths of people coming out to show their support for her attacks on trans youth,” said Kyler Kay, youth coordinator for the PRISM Wetaskiwin Board. “Danielle Smith […]
2024-02-06 17:00
“Wetaskiwin is its own worst enemy.” Those are the words of the Wetaskiwin’s Ec. Development manager Vern May. May was speaking to members of the Leduc, Nisku and Wetaskiwin Regional Chamber of Commerce last week where he was not only showcasing successes in the community, but also the challenges facing the city when it comes […]
2024-02-06 17:00
A Millet couple’s request to be allowed to park behind their home at the top of Porter Ave. has Council looking at parking in that neighbourhood. Kyrsten Stewart said her family has lived in their for eight years and had previously been allowed to park on what has been determined to be Town-owned property near […]
2024-01-30 17:00
After increasing the rates to rent sign poles in Millet last year, Council voted to give renters a grace period. Realtor Angela Halwa came before Council at the Jan. 24 meeting asking council to consider charging her as a resident of Millet, as she lives just outside the town limits and the increase from $40 […]
2024-01-30 17:00
Millet residents will be able to get their subs without having to leave town. Last week, the Town of Millet announced a development permit was issued for a property located at 4904-50 St. so a Subway franchise could be built. Development is set to start early Spring and they are hoping to be open for […]
2024-01-30 17:00
A water main break repair in January drained the Town of Millet’s utility repair budget for the year. During the cold snap earlier this month, a water main on the corner of Hwy. 616 and Hwy. 2A started gushing water Jan. 16. While repairing the damage, another break was identified in the area and residents […]
2024-01-30 17:00
Following a presentation on the 2022 audited financial statements, Wetskiwin City Council approved the 2024 operating budget, which will see taxes go up. At the Jan. 22 Council meeting, Council spoke with the auditor in a closed session to ensure they had full understanding of the City’s financial position. Throughout 2023, Administration provided Council with […]
2024-01-30 17:00
After hearing from a number of people, Wetaskiwin City Council has opted not to remove 168 Garwood Cres. From the Municipal Reserve. 168 Garwood Crescent is a 993.15 m2 lot that adjoins and forms the west entrance to Garden Meadows Park. It is zoned R1 Single Dwelling Residential district. Council had directed Administration to begin […]
2024-01-30 17:00
Wetaskiwin author Joyce Sjogren has produced her first novel From Leeds to Lashburn. It’s an informative, at times gripping and moving tale, of life on the Canadian prairie in the early 1900’s. “I felt the need to write about what life was like for my relatives who came to Canada from England. Not only the […]
2024-01-30 17:00
The first series of “books” shared their stories Saturday during Carapace’s first Human Library Experience — The Stories We Share. After postponing the Jan. 13 event due to extreme cold, The Stories We Share was rescheduled to Jan. 27 at the Wetaskiwin District Heritage Museum Centre and saw dozens of people stop in to hear […]
2024-01-30 17:00
The Hope Mission Shelter in Wetaskiwin has been busy with lower than average temperatures drawing people inside. Rev. Kelly Row said, “It’s been busy, especially during the day.” Instead of people wandering around the city, while the temperatures were frigid, more people were congregating inside the shelter during the day. While the temporary shelter’s overnight […]
2024-01-23 17:00
Investigations into break-ins at Millet Fas Gas and Bashaw Groceries have determined the two incidents are related. At around 4 a.m. Dec. 1o a passerby noticed the glass on the front door of the Millet Fas Gas had been smashed and called 9-1-1. While police were en route, the store alarm alerted police to the […]
2024-01-23 17:00
RCMP have determined a series of fires, which included Wetaskiwin’s former Visitor Information Centre are related and were deliberately set. Alberta RCMP Media Relations Cpl. Troy Savinkoff said the fires continue to be investigated but it has been determined the fires are suspicious and evidence indicates all three are related. Wetaskiwin firefighters were initially called […]
2024-01-23 17:00
One worrying aspect of the latest pro-Palestinian demonstrations is the alarming ignorance some participants seem to have about who and what they’re supporting. The latest ploy is to wave signs glorifying Houthi terrorists who are attacking commercial shipping in the Red Sea in support of Palestinians. It’s hard to believe that anyone who shares this […]
2024-01-23 17:00
A local business owner wants to help people stay warm this winter, Katrina Kraft, owner of Hurricane Hustles said she is launching a clothing drive to help find winter clothes to help those in need. “This is for everybody who needs help,” she said. “Some people are just too proud or don’t know there’s places […]
2024-01-23 17:00
I can’t stress enough the importance of the agriculture industry to this country, this province, and this constituency. Every producer is fully aware that El Nino is impacting the weather in Alberta this year; as a result, we are seeing less snow and rain, and – on average – experiencing warmer temperatures. These conditions are […]
2024-01-23 17:00
Hockey lovers are encouraged to share their love of the game while supporting a good cause next month by getting involved in Hockey Hooky for Ben. During the week of Feb. 26-March 1, the Ben Stelter Foundation presents a week-long fundraising initiative which will have people across Alberta get involved in a fun “hockey” week […]
2024-01-23 17:00
Some Wetaskiwin students will be able to access mental health services in their classrooms starting next month. Last week, CASA Mental Health announced CASA Classrooms will launch in two schools in Central Alberta: Wetaskiwin Outreach School and Red Deer’s Escuela Vista Grande School in February. These CASA Mental Health classrooms can support up to 12 […]
2024-01-23 17:00
Maskwacis RCMP requests the public’s assistance in locating 14-year-old Mary Bull. Bull was last seen leaving school in Maskwacis Jan. 18, at 3:30 p.m. The RCMP are concerned for her wellbeing and would like to speak with her. Bull is five feet tall and weighs 101 pounds. She is described as having a Medium complexion with brown […]
2024-01-21 17:00
Wetskiwin City Council is asking the Provincial Government to pull its funding from the Hope Mission’s shelter project in Wetaskiwin. At the end of the City’s regular Council meeting Jan 8, Coun. Dean Billingsley said he had a letter he wanted Council to consider sending to the Province. “In light of the situation that we […]
2024-01-16 17:00
When you plan to deliver a baby via caesarean, you don’t expect it to be the first baby born in a new year, but that’s exactly what happened with a Wetaskiwin family. Mariette De Real said she was scheduled for a C-Section Jan. 5 and after the safe arrival of her daughter, Aimee Mira, the […]
2024-01-16 17:00
Last week’s cold weather saw multiple issues with vehicles, heating appliances and forced the closure or cancellation of schools, businesses and events. Last week, Environment Canada issued an extreme cold warning for the Wetaskiwin area when temperatures started dropping mid-week. Temperatures started falling Thursday and continued to fall through the weekend with Saturday morning and […]
2024-01-16 17:00
After putting the Memorial Arts Centre up for sale last year, Wetaskiwin City Council has accepted an offer. During the regular City Council meeting Jan. 8, Council accepted an offer to purchase the building. “We received a number of formal and informal offers,” said Wetaskiwin’s director of Economic Development Vern May. “I think we have […]
2024-01-16 17:00
It’s never been used, but just in case, Millet Town Council approved a borrowing bylaw that would authorize the use of the Town’s $1.5 million line of credit if it was needed. At the Jan. 10 regular Millet Council meeting, held via Zoom, the Town’s Finance director Annette Gordon said the bylaw authorizes the use […]
2024-01-16 17:00
The Town of Millet will be working with CPKC on updating the pedestrian crossing. At the Jan. 10 regular Town Council meeting, held via Zoom last week, Millet’s director of Development and Infrastructure said a report from CPKC indicated the 47 Ave. pedestrian crossing is “well below standards” and requires immediate repairs to become compliant […]
2024-01-16 17:00
Call it the mystery of the disappearing missile system. In January 2023, Anita Anand, then-minster of defence, announced an act of sweeping largesse on the part of the Canadian government. This country would purchase a National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS) for Ukraine. According to a press release at the time, the donation would “help […]
2024-01-16 17:00
Holy cow. We’re a tough breed in Alberta, but I am absolutely done with this cold, anyone else? By the time this week’s edition of the Times hits the streets, it’s supposed to be a balmy -17 and while the low is predicted to be -23, I will take that after these ridiculous recording setting […]
2024-01-16 17:00
After five years of discussions and possible solutions related to how to deal with Wetaskiwin’s homeless population, a permanent homeless shelter project has been put on hold, but as the temperatures drop, Hope Mission will continue to provide emergency housing. At Wetaskiwin City Council’s regular meeting Monday morning, several people came forward speaking both in […]
2024-01-09 17:00
In a 4-3 decision, Wetaskiwin City Council voted to reconsider approval of the Direct Control Application for the Hope Mission homeless shelter, opening several of them up to liability. After hearing from numerous people for and against the proposal to build a permanent homeless shelter and transitional housing facility with room for program and access […]
2024-01-09 17:00
After five years of discussions and possible solutions related to how to deal with Wetaskiwin’s homeless population, a permanent homeless shelter project has been put on hold, but as the temperatures drop, Hope Mission will continue to provide emergency housing. At Wetaskiwin City Council’s regular meeting Monday morning, several people came forward speaking both in […]
2024-01-09 17:00
There are not many things that you and I agree about, but I just want to let you know that I totally agree with your Max Chats published on Jan. 3 where you expressed the opinion that instead of banning the post-game handshakes, that the Hockey Association should have used it as an opportunity to […]
2024-01-09 17:00
150
WEATHER
TODAY
Currently:
8.6
High:
9
Low:
4
Partly Cloudy
Sunrise: 5:28 am Sunset: 9:32 pm
SATURDAY
30% Chance of Rain
High:
10
Low:
6
SUNDAY
80% Chance of Rain
High:
8
Low:
5
TOP 50 News Topics:
ST ALBERT, EDMONTON, ALBERTA, AIR QUALITY, SHERWOOD PARK, LEDUC, FORT MCMURRAY, WETASKIWIN, BEAUMONT, WHITECOURT, DEVON, AIRDRIE, FORT SASKATCHEWAN, COCHRANE, HIGH RIVER, NANTON, PEACE RIVER, VULCAN, SPRUCE GROVE, STONY PLAIN, PINCHER CREEK, MAYERTHORPE, HANNA, FAIRVIEW, COLD LAKE, PEACE COUNTRY, GRANDE PRAIRIE, VERMILLION, DRAYTON VALLEY, CANADA, YEG,
ST ALBERT, EDMONTON, ALBERTA, AIR QUALITY, SHERWOOD PARK, LEDUC, FORT MCMURRAY, WETASKIWIN, BEAUMONT, WHITECOURT, DEVON, AIRDRIE, FORT SASKATCHEWAN, COCHRANE, HIGH RIVER, NANTON, PEACE RIVER, VULCAN, SPRUCE GROVE, STONY PLAIN, PINCHER CREEK, MAYERTHORPE, HANNA, FAIRVIEW, COLD LAKE, PEACE COUNTRY, GRANDE PRAIRIE, VERMILLION, DRAYTON VALLEY, CANADA, YEG,