The real signs that summer is on the way

Kaytlin and Isabella Kremenik at Pass Powderkeg
Bruce Lybbert photos

Bruce Lybbert, Out and About

Geese are taking over the fields near the roundabout. They seem to be saying over and over "Where is the sun? Isn't this supposed to be spring?"

Theft of All Terrain Vehicles in Pincher Creek

RCMP press release

The Pincher Creek RCMP are requesting the public's assistance in identifying the persons responsible for stealing two ATVs.

On the evening of March 30th, 2014 between the hours of 9:00 pm and 10:00 pm an unknown male entered the yard at the Pincher Creek Cervus/John Deere dealership and stole two ATVs and a single place ATV trailer. It is believed the male drove the ATVs down the road and into a field to the East of the compound. Once into the field the male loaded one ATV into the back of a truck and attached the trailer.

The stolen items as follows:

• 2013 Arctic Cat 550XT ATV Red and Black in colour. VIN unknown at this time.
• 2010 Polaris 550LE ATV Red in colour. VIN - 4XAZX55A5A015047
• Small single place ATV trailer with small narrow tires. Make and model unknown at this time. 

Pictures of similar machines are below.

Pictured: ATVs similar to those stolen 

Anyone with information regarding the above noted matter is asked to contact the Pincher Creek RCMP at 403-627-6010 or Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-(TIPS)8477 or online at www.tipsubmit.com/start.htm.

Southwest Rockies recognize players for accomplishments

The Southwest Rockies award winners, back row, from left: coach Rory Snider, Sean Park, Jordy Welsh, Kyle Roberts, Jason Creighton, Ethan Richards and coach Alex Elliott. Front row, from left: Michael McTighe, Chase Snider, Turner Sharp and Payton Tailfeathers.

Emily McTighe photo

Frank McTighe, Macleod Gazette Editor

The Southwest Rockies honoured players last week for their accomplishments during the 2013-’14 South Central Alberta Bantam AA Hockey League season. The Rockies held their awards banquet Wednesday at the Cowley Community Hall.

Policing in Alberta to March 31, 2014 (updated)

press releases

• Red Deer RCMP seeks assistance to locate missing girl FOUND
• Ponoka RCMP seeks assistance to locate missing girl
• Pincher Creek RCMP Media Summary for the week of March 24 - March 30, 2014
• Lethbridge Police, dispatchers and corrections officers cycling for a cause
• Viking RCMP investigating sudden death of young woman
• Drugs, money and weapons bust in Fort McMurray
• Grande Prairie Traffic Stop leads to arrest after driver fails to stop
• Cash and drugs seized, charges laid in Grande Prairie
• Mischief in Lloydminster

Ponoka RCMP seeks assistance to locate missing girl

Missing: Kailyn Verquin

Foothills 4-H Beef club report March, 2014

I am Bruce Kirby, club reporter for the Foothills 4-H club. This year we have 12 members and our general leaders are David DeCock and Kathy Welsch. Our project leaders for steer project are Stacey Stauffer and Bryan Mackenzie. and for heifer project they are Jim Welsch and Donalee Smith.

We held are club communications night on February 11, 2014. We would like to thank everyone who helped make this night possible. The judges and timers were Wendy Svab, Wendy Desjarlais, Lindsey Paterson, Phil Burpee, Judy Bonertz, Brian Hammond and Darryll and Debbie Crowshoe. Laura Welsch was the MC and did a great job.

Experiential Learning Week: Scuba diving

Scuba class
Richard Brown photos

Toni Lucas

Matthew Halton High School held Experiential Learning Week from March 24 - 28 in Pincher Creek and area. Each student chose a single course that they were enrolled in for the duration of the week. The school held 19 different courses during the week. The programs were offered in Pincher Creek and area with school, local business, and citizen support.

Halton Teacher Richard Brown was 'out of his depth' while teaching a class in scuba diving as he is a recreational diver, not a certified instructor. With the assistance of qualified instructors from Awesome Adventures out of Lethbridge, his students are well on their way to achieving their SCUBA Diver Certification.  Brown said that his students were very motivated, and excited about the opportunity to learn about diving.

St. Michael's Choir earns top honours at Crowsnest Pass Music Festival

St. Michael's Choir December performance
Manon Dyck photo

Toni Lucas

St. Michael's Choir teacher Mrs. Shelly Alexander says the choir has had a great year so far.  Alexander has been in charge of choir, currently including 50 students from grades 2 - 5, for the last 4 years.  "We did do the Symphony back in December in Lethbridge, it was the Kid's Concert Symphony, and there were many choirs. We recorded two songs on CD in the fall for the Christmas Concert CD for the School Division, and we sang O Canada in February during a Hurricane’s Hockey game."  Their latest challenge was the Crowsnest Pass Music Festival, and they have recently were invited to perform at the Crowsnest Symphony Spring Concert (March 8).

Experiential Learning Week: Pre-employment training

This class is a gas: Charles Mitchell participates in H2S Alive training
Dana Connelly photos

Toni Lucas

Matthew Halton High School held Experiential Learning Week from March 24 - 28 in Pincher Creek and area. Each student chose a single course that they were enrolled in for the duration of the week. The school held 19 different courses during the week. The programs were offered in Pincher Creek and area with school, local business and citizen support.

Experiential Learning Week: Welding and fabrication

Mac Strachen-Reed cutting with help from classmates

Toni Lucas

Matthew Halton High School held Experiential Learning Week from March 24 - 28 in Pincher Creek and area. During this week each student chose a single course that they are enrolled in for the duration of the week. The school held 19 different courses during the week. The programs were offered in Pincher Creek and area with support from the school and local businesses and citizens.

Positively Conservative

Debra Janzen, Letter to the Editor

I am a proud Progressive Conservative, and I am proud of the accomplishments of the Progressive Conservative government.  Progressive Conservative policies have made Alberta a dynamic and ever-growing province.  Alberta’s oil and gas industry is marketing around the world, farmers and ranchers now have expanding markets, small businesses are prospering, and all Albertans have every opportunity to succeed.  Alberta has the capacity and foresight to build the infrastructure to accommodate our increasing population and is doing so.  Yet the opposition is telling us we need to change.

Culture celebrated at St. Michael's School

Carnaval de Sucre celebrations

Toni Lucas

St. Michael's School celebrated local, national, and international culture and heritage on Friday, March 28.  Themes included local Blackfoot culture, an eastern-Canada flavoured Carnaval des Sucres, and an international food festival.

^ Video:  Mrs. Jennifer Parker introduces the Carnaval with Brooklynn and Tonika

Policing in Alberta to March 28, 2014 (updated)

press releases

• Hinton RCMP seek public's help to identify assault suspect
• Vacuum thieves bagged
• Wood Buffalo RCMP investigate Hit and Run
• Update on October 9, 2013 St. Albert fatal collision
• Dangerous thin ice
• Grande Prairie RCMP investigating early morning aggravated assault
• Red Deer RCMP warn public about tax and immigration scams – Update
• Search Warrant executed and stolen firearms recovered in Rocky Mountain House
• Cocaine bust in Rocky mountain House
• Cops chasing cops...the results
• Man faces multiple theft and driving charges
• Motor vehicle fatality in Cochrane
• Gas and dash in stolen truck while possessing marijuana = charges for Innisfail youth

Bert Riggall Foundation honours his life with a photographic display

Self portrait of F.H. Riggall in a tent in Canada

Toni Lucas with information from Judy Huntley and Wendy Ryan

Bert Riggall Environmental Foundation's (BREF) Annual General Meeting was held on March 26 at the Lebel Mansion. According to members in attendance the foundation was developed over 30 years ago to be an educational venue to encourage people in the community to learn more about the environment, and raise awareness of the factors that  impact the environment in a negative way.

Chinook Basketball League 2014 All-Star games held in Fort Macleod

2014 Chinook Basketball League Girls All-Stars
Gayle MacIntyre photos

2014 Chinook Basketball league Boys All-Stars
Gayle MacIntyre photos

Gayle MacIntyre and Chris Davis

The Chinook Basketball League wrapped up their 2013-14 Season with Girls and Boys All-Star games at F.P. Walshe School in Fort Macleod on Thursday evening March 27.

Pincher Creek Town Council notes from March 24, 2014 meeting

Toni Lucas

• Marilyn Kirk brings snow removal issues to Pincher Creek Town Council (link)
• Traffic taming requested by citizen at Town council (link)
• Insurance and sewage woes for local businesswoman
• Rotary Club tells Town council of plans for new performing arts theatre
• SASG facility upgrades costs discussed
• Town Council to host Best of the West pancake breakfast
• Council to meet with MLA Pat Stier

Disgusted by the state of provincial politics

Sharon Duncan, Letter to the Editor

I am totally disgusted by what I am experiencing in the Political arena in our generally otherwise respected Province of Alberta.

Anyone who thinks that what is going on in Edmonton is good governance maybe wants to give their head a shake

Alberta eases road ban rules to help move grain

This spring, farmers across Alberta will be able to obtain free permits to haul grain on provincial highways when road bans are in effect.

Starting April 1, farmers transporting grain from storage to elevators will be exempt from vehicle weight restrictions on provincial highways. Permits will be available at no cost for grain trucks to travel at 100 per cent axle weight on banned roads, as long as these roads are not damaged in the process.

Preparation is the key to managing spring flood season

Government of Alberta press release

As spring arrives, the Government of Alberta is urging all Albertans to be informed about what they can do to prepare their homes and families against future flooding.

Policing in Alberta to March 27, 2014

press releases

• LRPS seeks public assistance to identify owners of recovered jewelry
• Multiple collisions on QEII
• Edmonton Major Crimes Unit investigating a sudden death
• Calgary dial-a-dope operation busted
• Two from Fort McMurray charged after dial-a-dope bust
• Witnesses sought after teenage girl struck by hit and run driver in Brooks

Heritage Acres addresses Ferguson letter

Heritage Acres Executive Director Bill Kells, Letter to the Editor

On January 14, 2014 Heritage Acres Farm Museum issued a press release to 22 newspapers in southwest Alberta and southeast B.C. and three T.V. stations in Lethbridge announcing the big barn move taking place on February 4th. In that press release Mr. Boss Zoeteman was recognized as the original owner/builder of the barns, that he operated a dairy business there which served the Pincher Creek community. It also stated he sold the business to the Vogelaar family who continued to run the dairy until it closed. It also mentioned the property was then sold to Mr. Lloyd Sproule who generously donated the barns to Heritage Acres.

That press release was the only official press release issued by Heritage Acres in respect to the Barn relocation. Therefore, in answer to Ms. Ferguson’s letter to the Editor, (Pincher Creek Voice March 14 and Pincher Creek Echo March 26), there are absolutely no grounds for the accusation that the museum only begins to tell the history of the barns from 1961, when the property changed ownership . The facts, as you will continue to read, simply do not support that!

Marilyn Kirk brings snow removal issues to Pincher Creek Town Council

Toni Lucas

Marilyn Kirk met with Town Council during the regular meeting of March 24. Kirk lives on Edna Street in Pincher Creek and wanted to address problems with flooding she said were due to the way snow removed from the road has been deposited in her area over the course of several winters.

AHS consolidates programs and services at Lethbridge Centre

Lethbridge Centre, located at 200 4 Ave. S., is now home to several Alberta Health Services (AHS) programs and services, including child and adolescent addiction and mental health, rehabilitation services, audiology and home care.

Saputo Foods in Glenwood to close at the end of 2015

Chris Davis

At a meeting yesterday employees of Saputo Foods in the Village of Glenwood were informed that the facility, which employs 25 people and produces dried milk, will be closing at the end of 2015. In a press release issued yesterday announced four facility closures, two in Alberta at Wetaskiwin and Glenwood, and two in the USA in New London (Wisconsin) and Hancock (Maryland).

According to Saputo's press release, "The current production will be integrated into other Saputo facilities. The first facility closure is scheduled in May 2014 and the last closure will occur in December 2015. In all, approximately 180 employees will be impacted. These employees will be provided with severance and outplacement support; and some will be offered the possibility of transferring to other Saputo locations."

The closure is expected to have a huge impact on the economy of the Village of Glenwood.

Experiential Learning Week: Lego robot races

Off to the races!
T. Lucas photos and video

Toni Lucas

Matthew Halton High School in Pincher Creek has embarked on a second Experiential Learning Week, after the success of the last one held in October of last year. "I believe that students really came away with a genuine learning experience that they valued,' said Principal Sandra McDuffe.  "Approaching this week you still wonder 'Is it going to go off okay, is it going to be as good as last time?'  I think it is. It's feeling the same way as it did before."

Experiential Learning Week: Cosmetology

^ Hayley Patterson - Butterfly, Kaitlyn Speight - Cheetah, Beyonce Crowshoe - Fish, Dani Lounsbury - Cheetah, Mary Dietze - Deer, Marissa Hagglund - Giraffe, Mackenzie Van Loon - Tiger, Jayden Tanner - Butterfly

Toni Lucas

Cosmetology is one of the classes being held during the spring session of Matthew Halton High School's Experiential Learning Week, which is underway this week.

The cosmetology  students got to take field trips to see hair and aesthetics salons, the cosmetology program at Willow Creek Composite High School in Claresholm, and beauty schools in Lethbridge.

Slippery road conditions likely responsible for no-injury accident on Highway 3

Chris Davis

At approximately 7:15 pm today Pincher Creek Emergency Services and area RCMP responded to a no-injury collision on Highway 3  near Munsels Crossing, the train bridge that crosses the highway just east of Pincher Creek.  A collided with the rear bumper of a tractor trailer, resulting in extensive damage to the driver-side front end of the car and little or no visible damage to the tractor trailer.  Pincher Creek Emergency Services assessed the occupants on-scene and released them as there were no injuries.  Road and weather conditions are believed to be factors in the collision, according to Emergency Service Chief Dave Cox.

At the time of writing this roads and highways in the area are still slippery and caution is advised.

This job is for the birds

AltaLink employee installing bird diverters
Robert Dale Plante photo

Toni Lucas

"Our field guys are amazing at what they do, and they love it," said AltaLink Communications Advisor Shawn Roth. We contacted him after two citizens sent in pictures of helicopters flying close to the towers in the Summerview area near the Oldman River Dam over the past 3 days. Crews were also working on the Fidler Substation and Transmission Line project, where construction is expected to be completed this summer.

Policing in Alberta to March 26, 2014

• LRPS charge southern Alberta man in connection with $10 million investment fraud
• Fatal train vs motor vehicle collision near Nobleford
• Medicine Hat man’s death confirmed to be homicide
• Red Deer RCMP seek public assistance in armed robbery
• Multiple vehicle thefts in Blackfalds/Lacombe area
• Building and gas well shot at near Brooks
• Red Deer RCMP seek public assistance in hit and run
• Leg traps found near Hinton trail area
• Red Deer RCMP seek public assistance to identify mugger
• Collision with tractor trailer results in charges for Beaverlodge schoolbus driver

Pincher Creek Skating Club celebrates 50 Years On Ice

Surfin' with the Junior Starskaters

Chris Davis and Toni Lucas

Pincher Creek Skating Club celebrated half a century of excellence with the aptly named "50 Years On Ice" extravaganza at the MCC arena on March 22.

MD of Pincher Creek council grants Gun Club gravel request

Chris Davis

Dan Kuftinoff wrote a letter to the council for the MD of Pincher Creek on behalf of the Oldman River Gun Club which in part reads "In July we are hosting the shooting events at the club for the 2014 Summer Games. As you well know, we underwent a pretty large transformation at the club and we are still working at it!"

Joe Stockinger to defend his Canadian Power Lifting title at St. Catherines Championships

Joe Stockinger, namesake and inspiration at Joe's Gym, prepares for Championships
Edwin Knox photos

Edwin Knox, Contributor

From all the members and patrons of Joe’s Gym we would like to wish “Joe” Stockinger all the very best as he travels to St. Catherines Ontario to defend his title at the Canadian Power Lifting Championships. Joe will “dead-lift” 202kg to take “the Gold" in the nationals once again for the 80 to 85 year class. Joe is such an inspiration for us all at the gym and within the community of Pincher Creek. We are rooting for you Joe! Have a safe and enjoyable trip!

Good luck Joe!

859 Crowsnest Air Cadets holds meeting to address need for sponsorship committee volunteers

Membership Director Anna Lewis, Southern Wing Director Rob Bahuis, 859 Crowsnest Chair Trisha Smith

The Squadron Sponsoring Committee (SSC) for 859 Crowsnest Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron held a meeting in the basement of the Blairmore Elks Hall on March 19, attended by a small but dedicated group of parent-volunteers. The SSC is primarily comprised of parents of cadets and is the funding and recruiting arm of the air cadet squadron.  Cadets are between 12 and 18 years old.

Traffic taming requested by citizen at Town council

Toni Lucas

Vanessa Haggan appeared as a delegation before Pincher Creek's Town Council during their regular meeting on Monday evening, March 24. She brought forward a number of concerns regarding Macleod Street, Maple Street, and Robertson Avenue to the east of the Recreation Center. Some of the issues she brought up included:

• Safety from traffic for  children in the area
• How traffic in the area flows and at what speed
• Blind corners
• Fencing and sidewalks (or the lack thereof)

Atom Chinooks victorious in final tournament

Atom Chinooks with their Championship banner
Jacqui Bruns photo

Kayne Evans

On March 22 the Pincher Creek Atom Chinooks headed to Black Diamond for their final tournament of the year, the 'FaceOff In The Rockies'. The Atom Chinooks had been idle for the previous three weeks with only two exhibition games and two practices in that time. The Chinooks were without Rhett Fitzpatrick, Tristen Blood and Corbin Litchfield for this tournament.

Policing in Alberta to March 25, 2014

press releases

• Body of missing Edmonton woman found (updated)
• ASIRT Releases further information on Medicine Hat officer-involved shooting
• Accident on Highway 40 near Grande Prairie claims man's life
• Sudden death in Red Deer deemed to be unsuspicious
• Stabbing incident at Sunchild First Nations
• Hunter receives substantial fines
• Edmonton man facing sexual assault charges for library, LRT incidents
• Sexual Assault charges in Medicine Hat
• Multi-agency Checkstops held in Rocky Mountain House area
• RCMP warn people not to expose themselves to online fraud
• Seatbelt blitz in Wood Buffalo
• Multiple charges laid after Sylvan Lake collision with Telus building causes gas leak

Body of missing Edmonton woman found (updated)

Click here for an update about this story

ASIRT Releases further information on Medicine Hat officer-involved shooting

The Alberta Serious Incident Response Team is continuing the investigation into an officer-involved shooting which occurred on March 22, 2014 at approximately 2:30 p.m. just south of the Medicine Hat city limits. A Medicine Hat Police Service officer was engaged in an investigation into a report of a missing person when the police officer drove into the driveway of the rural residence. The police officer was confronted by a male who exited the residence and pointed a firearm at the police officer.

The police officer retreated into his vehicle and immediately notified the RCMP. Additional members of the Medicine Hat Police Service attended to contain the area. There was communication between police officers and the male by phone. As a result of that communication, the police officer believed that the male was a danger to police.

A short time later the male was seen removing a body from an area at the rear of the residence. The male then entered a vehicle with a firearm and drove towards the police. One shot was fired by a Medicine Hat Police Service officer, who was aware of all of the previous details of this incident. The male died as a result of the injuries he sustained in this officer-involved shooting. The firearm that the deceased male had in his possession was recovered at the scene.

ASIRT is conducting an investigation into the actions of one Medicine Hat Police Service officer.

Arising out of the same set of circumstances, the RCMP is conducting a homicide investigation involving an individual or individuals associated to this incident.

The Medicine Hat Police Service is conducting a concurrent investigation in relation to the original report of a missing person or abduction.

Accident on Highway 40 near Grande Prairie claims man's life

This morning at approximately 7:45 a.m. a northbound semi truck collided head on with a southbound pickup truck at the intersection of Township road 692 and Highway 40 south of Grande Prairie. A number of other semi trucks also become involved in the accident. It is unknown at this stage what caused the accident but the highway will be closed for a period of time until the area can be deemed safe.

The 57 year old male driver of the pickup died at the scene as a result of the collision. The drivers name is not being released pending notification of next of kin.

Sudden death in Red Deer deemed to be unsuspicious

Just before midnight on Sunday, March 23, 2014, Red Deer RCMP responded to a report of an unconscious and apparently deceased male in the area of 48 Avenue and 53 Street in Red Deer, Alberta. On arrival, RCMP and EMS confirmed that the male was deceased.

An autopsy was conducted on March 24, 2014 in Calgary on the deceased man. The death is being treated as non-suspicious, and family members are being advised. RCMP will not be releasing any further details.

Stabbing incident at Sunchild First Nations

On March 24, 2014 at approximately 2:40pm, Rocky Mountain House RCMP and the Ambulance Service were called to a residence on the Sunchild First Nation in response to a possible stabbing. Police attended and determined that a 46 year old male had stabbed a 43 year old female in the arm, resulting in non life threatening injuries. The people involved know each other, and alcohol was a factor.

The suspect was arrested nearby a short time after the incident. The victim was taken to local hospital for treatment and is in stable condition. Police are continuing the investigation and charges are expected. Sunchild First Nations is located approximately 50 kms Northwest of Rocky Mountain House.

Rocky RCMP have been busy and have responded to 13 Domestic Violence calls for service in the past 14 days.

Hunter receives substantial fines

In Okotoks Provincial Court today, a 43 year old male received $2,000 in fines for an incident relating back to November 2013, where the man was charged under Section 37(1) and Section 55(1) of the Wildlife Act after he failed to follow rules and regulations when harvesting an animal in the Priddis area.


The RCMP fields complaints of Illegal Poaching of animals and Trespassing on Private property regularly during hunting season in Alberta. Members of the general public are reminded to adhere to No Trespassing/No Hunting signs on private property, as well as to be aware of the surroundings you are in, other residences close by and other recreational users in the area.

Edmonton man facing sexual assault charges for library, LRT incidents

Investigators believe there may be additional complainants

The Edmonton Police Service Child Protection Section has charged a 42-year-old Edmonton man with sexual assault charges in connection with a pair of separate incidents, the most recent involving a young girl at a downtown library.

Calvin Soosay

It was reported that on Monday, Feb. 24, 2014, at approximately 4:45 p.m., a male suspect approached and struck up a conversation with a 10-year-old girl in the children’s section of a public library near Sir Winston Churchill Square. The suspect is then alleged to have sexually assaulted the complainant, before fleeing the library on foot.

Child Protection Section investigators identified and arrested the accused on Wednesday, March 12, 2014, thanks in part to the assistance of library staff and Downtown Division members.

Investigators have also since charged the accused with another alleged sexual assault that occurred on March 11, 2014. It was reported that the accused approached and groped a 13-year-old female complainant, while walking on the Southgate LRT platform, at approximately 3 p.m., Tuesday, March 11, 2014.

Calvin Soosay, 42, is charged with sexual assault (x2), sexual interference (x2) andbreach of probation (x2).

The EPS Child Protection Section continues to investigate and is encouraging witnesses and/or other complainants to contact the Edmonton Police Service at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.tipsubmit.com/start.htm. 

Sexual Assault charges in Medicine Hat

On March 21, 2014, Medicine Hat Police Service Patrol and Major Crimes Section members attended to a complaint of domestic dispute at a residence located on Carswell Road SE. Upon arrival, police were met by a 24 year old male who had evidence of minor injuries to his face. Inside the residence police located a 15 year old female who indicated that she had been physically and sexually assaulted by the male. The male suspect was taken into custody and was subsequently charges with several offences including; sexual interference, sexual invitation to touching, sexual assault, utter Death threats, choking with intent and assault.

A bail hearing was held with the accused and the matter was adjourned, with a court date scheduled for March 24, 2014.

Multi-agency Checkstops held in Rocky Mountain House area

In support of National Impaired Driving Enforcement Day on March 22, 2014, members of the Rocky Mountain House RCMP Detachment, Town of Rocky Mountain House Peace Officers, Alberta Fish & Wildlife Officer's, and Alberta Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Officer's, conducted several Checkstops within the town of Rocky Mountain House and Caroline area. Officers concentrated on impaired driving enforcement along with offences under the Criminal Code and Provincial Acts.

Approximately 500 vehicles were checked resulting in the following charges:

• 1 impaired driving/refuse to provide breath sample
• 1 Criminal Code suspended driver
• 1 thirty day Graduated Drivers license suspension for consuming liquor 
• 2 possession of Marijuana under 30 grams charges
• 1 Breach of Probation
• 1 Loaded firearm in a vehicle
• 11 violation tickets for offences under the Traffic Safety Act and related regulations
• 2 violation tickets for No insurance
• 7 violation tickets for offences under the Gaming and Liquor Act
• 12 Equipment Violations
• 2 vehicles towed
• 1 Written Warning
• Approximately 30 verbal warnings

Local Enforcement agencies will continue to participate in joint checkstops in the Rocky Mountain House detachment area. Please do not drink and drive.

RCMP warn people not to expose themselves to online fraud

Since July of 2013, Red Deer RCMP have received five complaints of Extortion by Libel from victims within the city. These situations generally involve males being approached online by females who lure them into compromising online encounters. The female suspects then approach their victims again, claiming to have recorded the encounter and threatening to post it online unless they are paid by their victims.

“It’s difficult to lay charges in cases like this, because these online profiles are fake and often they live in different countries,” says Corporal Sarah Knelsen with Red Deer RCMP. “Our advice, always, is to use the privacy settings on social media accounts, to be very cautious about whom you befriend online, and to not let anyone – friends or strangers – talk you into doing anything that you wouldn’t want your family, your employer or your friends to see.”

RCMP say instances of people being talked into taking and sharing compromising photos and videos of themselves are on the rise. “People feel safe using apps such as SnapChat, where they believe their photos are disappearing within seconds,” says Knelsen. “In reality, every time a new technology or a new update on existing technology comes along, it is followed by work-arounds by those who want to abuse it.”  

RCMP suspect there may be even more instances of this type of extortion, but that victims may be too embarrassed to report it. These are relatively new issues, brought on by the popularity of social media, and its ensuing misuse by predators. Before July 2013, there were no reported cases of Extortion by Libel in Red Deer.

“Social media has so many great benefits but, as police, we see so many examples of the dark side of it,” says Knelsen. “People need to be aware of two vital things: your online actions do not disappear, and the online world is rife with predators.”

March is Fraud Prevention Month and Red Deer City RCMP would like to remind the public that, as predators continue to find creative ways to victimize trusting people, increased vigilance is necessary. The best protection is to learn how to recognize dangerous situations and fraud and protect yourself and the vulnerable people in your life from them: www.antifraudcentre.ca.

Seatbelt blitz in Wood Buffalo

On Friday March 21st, 2014 members from Wood Buffalo RCMP including Traffic Services and the Integrated Traffic Unit conducted a seatbelt blitz in the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo. This blitz resulted in a total of 110 violation tickets being issued. Some of the offences included 42 seatbelt infractions, 32 distracted driving involving cell phone usage and one Impaired Driving charge. The remaining offences included various provincial statutes.

On Saturday March, 22nd, 2014 a check stop resulted in a variety of charges and arrests. Some of which included 4 Impaired Driving charges, 4 Twenty Four Hour Suspensions, 5 charges for possession under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, 7 Speeding charges (two for going 50km/hr over the speed limit), 3 Seatbelt violations, 2 Liquor Act tickets, and 26 other provincial statute offences. There were also 5 persons arrested on outstanding warrants, 2 charged with Breach of Recognizance, and 1 person charged with Breach of Conditional Sentence Order. The Wood Buffalo RCMP Victim Services Unit also participated in the check-stop and handed out information packages to the motoring public on a variety of topics.

Other members of Saturday’s enforcement initiative team included Wood Buffalo RCMP Traffic Services Unit, Strike Force Team, and the Integrated Traffic Unit which is made up of RCMP members and Alberta Sheriffs.

Both projects on the weekend are part of the commitment by Wood Buffalo RCMP Detachment to contribute to public safety on our roadways.

Multiple charges laid after Sylvan Lake collision with Telus building causes gas leak

On March 24, 2014 Sylvan Lake RCMP arrested a male in connection with a Motor Vehicle Collision which occurred on Saturday, March 22, 2014 in Sylvan Lake. In that incident, a truck crashed into the TELUS Building on 50th Avenue causing an uncontrolled gas leak which resulted in an evacuation of a part of the downtown core for approximately 9 hours. The driver (and passengers) fled the scene prior to police arrival. Later that morning, while the emergency was still on going, the owner of the vehicle reported his truck stolen to police.

Investigation has determined that the owner of the truck was in fact the driver during the collision. In total, there were 4 occupants, all of which have been identified. One male passenger, a 24 year old Sylvan Lake man suffered significant head injuries during the collision and has been treated in hospital and released.

Thomas James HANGER (21 years old) of Three Hills, Alberta has been charged with the following offences:

• Dangerous Driving causing Bodily Harm
• Public Mischief
• Fail to remain at the scene of a collision
• Drive motor vehicle with no insurance

A Bail Hearing has been conducted on HANGER and he has been released on a $500 cash Recognizance with numerous conditions. HANGER is scheduled to appear in Red Deer Provincial Court on the morning of Tuesday, April 1, 2014.

Check yourself - Early detection of oral cancer could save your life

Kristen Becker, Alberta Health Services - South Zone

Oral cancer is the sixth most common type of cancer in North America. In 2013, the Canadian Cancer Society predicted that more than 4,100 people would be diagnosed with oral cancer; they estimate that more than 50 per cent of those diagnosed will die as a result. That means the death rates from oral cancer are three times higher than cervical cancer and almost double the rate of liver cancer. The reason: Although oral cancer is not difficult to diagnose, it’s often not found until it’s already metastasized, or spread. The good news: When detected early, oral cancer has an 80-per-cent survival rate; and often, the early signs/symptoms are visible and can be discovered by performing a quick routine self-examination at home.

Rec Department hosts successful Mass Registration event

The Mustangs unveiled their secret weapon for this coming season - Kathleen Hancock
Dan Crawford photo

Chris Davis

The Town of Pincher Creek's Recreation department hosted a mass registration event for community and sports organizations last Thursday evening, March 20 in the lobby of the MCC arena.  The event was very well attended, according to many of the organizers present.

Castle Crown Coalition weed pull to get donation from MD council

Chris Davis

Castle Crown Wilderness Coalition applied to council for the MD of Pincher Creek for $2000 towards costs associated with the barbeque to follow their annual weed pull and other related expenses. At their regular meeting on March 11 council decided to give them $1000 towards that purpose, the same amount council has given them in the past.

Usually held in July by Castle-Crown Wilderness Coalition in partnership with AB Parks, this year's West Castle Wetlands Ecological Reserve Weed Pull will be the seventh iteration of the annual event.

AHS to celebrate National Volunteer Week April 6-12

Alberta Health Services is celebrating volunteers the week of April 6-12. Volunteers play a vital role in supporting patients, residents, families, and staff.

Policing in Alberta to March 24, 2014

RCMP press releases

• Pincher Creek RCMP media summary for the week of March 17 to March 23, 2014
• Red Deer RCMP respond to unfounded firearms complaint
• Blackfalds thieves sought
• Grande Prairie RCMP weekend news summary
• Lac La Biche RCMP organizes enforcement partnership
• Fatal Motor Vehicle Collision near Ponoka

Roaring Lions daffodils campaign to return to Ranchland Mall April 3-5

Brenda Carmichael and Fay Jenkins, volunteers at last year's campaign
T. Lucas file photo

Pincher Creek Roaring Lions will be selling daffodils for The Canadian Cancer Society April 3rd, 4th, and 5th from 10 am to 6:00 pm at the Ranchland Mall.

Policing in Alberta to March 21, 2014

Press releases

• Warrant issued for Fox Creek thief
• RCMP lay charges in March 5 disturbance at Red Deer Remand Centre
• Leduc RCMP Looking for assistance in identifying robbery suspect
• Suspicious death of a feral horse update - died of natural causes 
• Protect Yourself
• Group of travelling thieves active in Edmonton again
• EPS warns of Canada Revenue Agency scams
• Edmonton vehicle stop for faulty muffler yields loaded 9mm handgun and charges
• Immigrants targeted and threatened with deportation scams

Rotary Club seeks support for new performing arts theatre in Pincher Creek

Wikimedia Commons image

Chris Davis

Pincher Creek Rotary Club is spearheading a community initiative that, if successful, will result in a new state of the art performing arts centre in Pincher Creek adjacent/attached to St. Michael's school.

Rotarian Scott Korbett is an enthusiastic booster for the idea.

"It's been almost a year since Rotary began playing with the idea of a community theatre, to give to the community," he explained.  "To build a theatre housing 250 to 300 seats, a proper performing arts theatre."

The Meat Shoppe Brand shredded cheese products recalled due to Listeria

Canadian Food Inspection Agency March 21, 2014

The Meat Shoppe Inc. is recalling The Meat Shoppe brand shredded cheese products from the marketplace due to possible Listeria contamination. Consumers should not consume the recalled products described below:

• The Meat Shoppe Shredded Cheddar Cheese, Packed On dates from 2014JA08 up to and including 2014MR03, UPC Starting with 200923
• The Meat Shoppe Shredded Mozza Cheese, Packed On dates from 2014JA08 up to and including 2014MR03, UPC Starting with 200922

Some Co-op and Market Town Co-op brands bakery products recalled due to Listeria

Canadian Food Inspection Agency March 21, 2014

Federated Co-operatives Ltd. is recalling Co-op and Market Town Co-op brands bakery products from the marketplace due to possible Listeria contamination. Consumers should not consume the recalled products described below.

Recalled products:

• Co-op California Garlic Bread, Best Before dates up to and including 14 MR 23, UPC 0 057316 130112
• Co-op Garlic/Cheese Bread 250 g, Best Before dates up to and including 14 MR 23, UPC 0 057316 073969
• Co-op Garlic/Cheese Bread 2 Pk 450 g, Best Before dates up to and including 14 MR 23, UPC 0 057316 146847
• Market Town Co-op Pizza Bread 425 g, Best Before dates up to and including 14 MR 23, UPC 0 057316 040305

Distribution: Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Saskatchewan

There have been no reported illnesses associated with the consumption of these products.