May 19, 2026

It is good that there has been a few weeks of discussion around the effects that Bill 28 may have on our public libraries, however, I have seen almost no one talk about the actual text of the bill. Now that this bill has been passed, it is even more important that people understand what it actually does and what the dangers are.

The conversation has been focused almost exclusively on whether children are, or could be, accessing materials that some people deem inappropriate. In reality, that conversation has been misguided. The text of the bill does not list or reference any type of materials to be restricted. What this bill has done is create a tool that allows a single person to restrict a person’s ability to access, use or borrow public library property. It also creates an inspection force to police library compliance, authorizes those inspectors to access any and every aspect of public libraries including library user information, and criminalizes anyone who gets in their way.

It is concerning that this bill puts this power in the office of a cabinet minister, a position that may change hands any time there is a cabinet shuffle. This has potential for constantly changing regulations that would be confusing and incredibly expensive as libraries use our tax dollars and would need to change their operations with every new directive.

While it may be true that the current minister of municipal affairs may use this bill to first restrict children and youth access to books, movies, video games, and even computer use that meet his personal definition of explicit materials, the bill puts no limits on what he or any minister under any future government may do with these new powers, and I don’t think we should trust any single person with this much control.

Public pressure will need to be ongoing if we are to protect our ability to make our own decisions about what we can all access, and to protect our private information and our excellent public institutions, and our tax dollars.

Elliot Harder,
Camrose

May 19, 2026

Danielle Smith made a comment on a radio program indicating that she would like to be able to “direct judges”. I am so happy that several senior judges have taken the unusual step of responding to her comment with a public statement.

It is not possible to overstate the importance of the concept of separation of powers to maintaining the democratic lifestyle in which we live. If we value our democracy, we need to understand the nature of the protections which the separation of powers enable.

It is the job of the legislature, of which Danielle Smith is a member, to enact and modify the law in the best interest of the general public which voted them into power. It is the job of the judiciary to interpret those laws and to ensure that those laws do not violate our constitution. If we allow the elected members of government to begin to control the judiciary we lose the protection of the law against misuse of elected authority. For someone who values the protections provided by our democracy, the suggestion that elected officials “direct judges”, dangerously undermines the authority of the judiciary. For that reason, it is difficult to believe that our premier would make a statement that clearly would be a violation of our democracy as we know and live it.

Why would Danielle Smith make such a statement? Does she not understand the significance of the concept of separation of powers? That is hard to believe but perhaps she truly does not have that understanding.

Alternatively, our premier may really not respect the structure of our democracy. Elected officials are perhaps subject to a “loss-of-humility” syndrome. That is to say, they come to believe that they really do know what is best for all people. Perhaps Danielle Smith really does believe that she has the ability to understand and interpret the law, and to make legal decisions, better than the judges of Alberta. That would reflect blind omniscience, and certainly a total lack of humility.

In either of the possible explanations above, we seem to be in real trouble with a leader who reveals a wish to control the judiciary. The sympathies of our leaders are a real threat to our democracy. We need to take that seriously. It is easy and dangerous to become complacent about democracy. Democratic processes need to be considered, reflected upon, valued, and respected or we can lose them.

Thank you so much to the senior judges of Alberta and anyone who speaks out to protect our democratic way of life.

Marvin Miniely,
Camrose

May 12, 2026

Charley Boyd wrote a very interesting letter on Bill 28. She suggested that this bill should remove the proposed government over reach on public libraries here in Alberta. She figured that Bill 28 is largely about censorship.

One aspect of this bill in my opinion is the fact that sexual material be kept out of the hands of young children. I, as a young child, was very interested in the human body and other functions of the human body. Bill 28 is more about keeping children safe from things they should not read or see until they are able to handle these subjects.

Just something to think about.

Lorne Vanderwoude,
Camrose

May 5, 2026

A huge shout out to The Camrose Booster for the impressive Spring Home and Yard Guide which was delivered with the April 28 issue.

It was really interesting to see, in one easy read, the wide variety of services we have in this community. I found myself thumbing through the publication three times. It was because of the ads in this Guide that I made my decision as to which greenhouse I will be heading to in the coming days and weeks for my annual shopping spree for bedding plants and spring planting supplies.

Good work, Booster crew.

Doug Preston,
Camrose 

May 5, 2026

With high school graduation season upon us, I wanted to thank the “village” who helped get my graduate to this point in her life.

Thank you to my parents, in-laws and family for all of the support needed to raise a child – babysitting, advice and being a role model for the parents we strive to be. Thank you to our day home and day care workers; you are saints whose patience and genuine love and care for children did not go unnoticed. Thank you to the elementary and junior high teachers who helped mold our little ones into young adults; you managed little people’s emotions, their many firsts, many fears and all of their triumphs in those early school years. Thank you to the high school teachers who instilled a passion for learning that will steer them in the direction that they will go on to next. Thank you to the coaches and activity leaders who gave up evenings and weekends to guide them in their artistic and athletic endeavours.

To the parents of her peers: thank you for being part of the journey and raising your children in ways to challenge, embrace and support our child along the way. To her peers, friends, villains and everything in between: thank you for teaching her lessons in life, friendship and being there for her when she needed you. To the City and province; thank you for providing the facilities to allow her to explore what she loves and to allow her to find her passions over the past 18 years.

The journey into adulthood is the next step and we are excited to see where all graduates will go next.

Chris Zarski,
Camrose

May 5, 2026

It is imperative that Bill 28 remove the proposed government overreach on public libraries in Alberta.

Eric Klinenberg in Palaces for the People (2018), champions libraries as vital “social infrastructure,” not a luxury, that must continue to be freely accessible to all people without restriction.

For a government that often won’t transparently release information on its own decision making or financial records, granting power to an inspector to review collections, services and operations of every library is hypocritical. It is antithetical to a core tenant of the conservative value of reducing “red tape.”

Libraries are staffed by professionals with extensive training in curating collections. Government staff, particularly elected ministers, do not have this skill set and should not dictate library operations. This opposes the core tenant of “strong local governance” the UCP upholds. Libraries should be most strongly shaped by their local community’s needs rather than provincial politicians.

Libraries are a core pillar of democracy that cannot be eroded. There has been a slow attack on library infrastructure with underfunding over decades. Perhaps most critical in this proposed legislation is the crushing requirement of paperwork and human resources to comply with new regulations despite no new funding. As our local library director stated in The Booster, “there is no fat to trim.”

While no details have been provided about what books would be restricted, Bill 28 is largely about censorship. The existence of a Library Inspector will prioritize fear and control of knowledge above professional standards, community needs, and freedom of information which ultimately risks indoctrination and government controlling which stories shape our future.

Camrose Public Library conducts itself with the utmost professionalism, respect, efficiency and responsiveness to community needs including formal and informal channels to review collections. The provincial government must respect the critical importance of libraries remaining independent, locally governed, and freely accessible.

Charley Boyd,
Camrose

May 5, 2026

I do not know how many people know this, but the University of Alberta is planning to destroy a beautiful pipe organ, built in 1978, to replace an earlier organ that was a memorial to the brave men and women who fought and died, to keep our country strong and free, in two World Wars.

It is worth at least $3,000,000 by today’s standard. Even if there is not an Organ Program at this time, it does not mean there will never be a use for it, and it is an important part of our history. Don’t you know that, if we don’t remember and learn from the past, we are doomed to repeat it!

Youth of today are so very quick to forget the past in their hurry to meet the future. Without the past, there is no future. This was tried in 2019 and halted because of a 20,000 signature petition.

 Please stand up and stop it again. Where there is a will, there is a way!

Joyce Schmidt,
Ohaton

April 27, 2026

The petition campaign to prevent new coal mines on the eastern slopes of the Rockies is progressing well in Camrose. Across Alberta, canvassers have until June 10 to gather 178,000 signatures. That’s a lot so the dozen canvassers in Camrose are working hard. We are engaging residents in positive, respectful conversations and many residents are happy to sign the petition in support of a healthy Alberta.

There is no economic case for these new mines. In 2021, the University of Calgary School of Public Policy did an economic analysis and concluded the jobs and financial gains of allowing new mines would be outweighed by the economic damage to tourism, agriculture and other business. This didn’t even take into account that these foreign companies will pack up and go after ten or twenty years, leaving us with an expensive mess to clean up.  New mines just don’t make sense.

In June 2025, Alberta government scientists determined that fish in Oldman Reservoir are so poisoned from selenium leaching from mines that have been closed for decades that the fish are not fit to eat. They concluded that any further mining will cause the fish populations to collapse completely. There are two new coal mines being planned at the headwaters of the Oldman River. One, the Grassy Mountain mine, was rejected as too risky by Alberta environment regulators, federal regulators, the Alberta court, and the Supreme Court; yet it is still on track to be developed. The water from the Oldman River is the water folks in southern Alberta drink. It’s not just the Oldman River – all the rivers in Alberta are at risk. Why would we want this?

If you want to know more about this issue, including the location of signing events, go to the Water Not Coal website.

Rob Hill,
Camrose

April 27, 2026

Alberta is seeing a steady erosion of democracy and it’s a concerning trend.

Bill 25 introduces sweeping changes to education that weaken the local elected authorities like school boards and instead take decisions to a higher government level, often leaving the communities that elected these officials behind.

Bill 28 expands provincial authority over utilities, allowing the government to direct and restructure service providers—reducing local control over essential services like water and electricity. This bill also initiates more centralized control over how library services are administered. Changes to Alberta’s electoral boundaries raise serious concerns about political influence and democracy. These lines would be redrawn under political influence, not independent oversight.

Each of these actions work to concentrate power at a provincial level. Democracy doesn’t disappear overnight, it erodes piece by piece. Albertans should be paying attention.

Lisa Trach,
Camrose

April 27, 2026

May 1 is National Physicians’ Day. I only became aware of this last year. I came across their website while sending an annual April birthday greeting and retirement (finally) congratulations to a lifelong friend of my twin brother and I, for now 70 years. He had been a dedicated ER doctor for well over 40 years. This is part of an excerpt I sent him from that website last April.

“National Physicians Day serves as a poignant reminder to pause and recognize the tireless dedication and unwavering commitment of physicians across Canada...by fostering a culture of appreciation...we honour the invaluable contribution of physicians.”

I managed to send him a text while lying in an Intensive Care Unit myself. This sentiment not only applies to my friend but also to my own family doctor here in Camrose.

During a trip to the U.K. last April to visit our dear little granddaughter and family, we all quickly came down with severe colds. By week’s end mine had become pneumonia that was diagnosed at the Oxford University ER. When we returned home the next week I had a scheduled appointment with my doctor at the Smith Clinic. He immediately sent me to the ER at St. Mary’s Hospital and I was admitted that afternoon.

By evening my condition worsened and, in his expert opinion and thoughtful treatment, I was transferred by STARS air ambulance to the Red Deer Hospital ICU where I was heavily sedated, intubated/ventilated and spent most of that weekend with my mortality in question. I woke up on Sunday to my granddaughter holding my hand, bedside and a yearlong recovery ahead. I spent the next three weeks in Red Deer (where ironically my friend had been a respected ER doctor for 10 years) and was transferred back to St. Mary’s Hospital for another three weeks under the remarkable care of some great nurses, excellent hospital staff and my family doctor, who visited daily without fail to check on my condition and progress.

If not for his experience, knowledge and genuine concern, I may not be writing this simple note of acknowledgement. My family doctor literally saved my life. He is a credit to his profession, as are so many of our doctors here in Camrose.

“Happy National Physicians’ Day” to all this Friday. How do you even begin to say thank you? It’s taken a year but throughout I have been so grateful for; God’s mercy and grace, my family and church prayers, my dear wife’s love and support, and to Dr. Nichol for his committed care and honourable character. Thank you! With much gratitude and sincere appreciation.

Richard Lewis,
Camrose

April 27, 2026

I just read your article about Alberta removing the time change, with permanent daylight time. Daylight Time at our latitude is just silly. It’s light in the summer and dark in the winter. The medical community recommends Standard Time to keep our circadian rhythm in balance, which improves health. The Western time zones are already skewed westward.

Saskatchewan moved the time zone to the Alberta border, bringing de facto Daylight Time to them already, so staying on Standard Time keeps them a bit more balanced. Alberta moved the time zone to the B.C. border, so our western communities are also in de facto Daylight Time.

Permanent Daylight Time means we Camrosians would be sending our kids to school in the dark in December and January.  Add almost another hour of morning darkness for our westernmost communities. I think we should stay on permanent Standard Time.

Stephen Kristenson,
Camrose

April 21, 2026

Are you feeling politically homeless here in Alberta? Good question.  Back in the day, I used to vote for the Alberta Social Credit Party.

They were in the centre of the political system. Oh I get it.

Most of the great politicians are long dead. Ernest Manning is also long gone. I would vote for the old Social Credit Party. But they are long gone. I am very disappointed. We need more choice.

Lorne Vanderwoude,
Camrose

April 14, 2026

There seems to be backlash to the new Bill 25 which the UCP has put forward. I remember when I was going to school back 40 years ago, we had the strap and we also had prayer in our school. The school was neutral.

Now 40 years later, things have changed. It is sad that the government has to remove politics and ideology from out of the classroom. This should never have entered in the first place. Parents should be the ones educating their kids at home when it comes to politics and ideology. Not the politicians.

This is just something to think about.

Lorne Vanderwoude,
Camrose

April 14, 2026

The phrase, “A fool and his money are soon parted,” is a quote coined by Thomas Tusser, a 16th-century English poet and farmer who offered practical wisdom on the virtues of hard work, individualism, and thrift. In summary … A foolish person is rarely a good steward of their money.
Given modern day financial mismanagement by many governments at many levels, I am certain that Tusser would agree to update the phrase to … “governments and taxpayers’ money are soon parted.”

My recent criticism of government mismanagement of the Heritage Savings Trust Fund for the past four decades did not include an analysis by Dr. Trevor Tombe and Colleen Collins. Dr. Tombe is an economist at the University of Calgary and a member of the Alberta Next panel while Colleen Collins was an economics advisor to Premier Peter Lougheed in the late 1970s, and recently served as vice-president at the Canada West Foundation, an economic think tank.

They estimate that the Heritage Fund could have been worth C$575 billion by 2020 had the Government of Alberta followed guidelines adopted by the Norwegian government. The Norwegians did not pilfer funds from their Government Pension Fund Global assets to balance their budget, as they limited withdrawals to 4 per cent of the Fund. The Norwegian Fund is valued in excess of $1.12 trillion and is one of the largest investment funds in the world.

Given such a simple solution, it is difficult to reconcile the Smith government’s recent pronouncement of projected growth of the HFOC Fund to $250 billion by 2050 when the Heritage Fund could have reached $575 billion six years ago with prudent Fund management.

Dr. Tombe’s economic insights offer considerable food for thought…topics include the CPP, a proposed APP, equalization formulae, inflation, economic decline, post COVID economics, food prices, demographics, greenhouse gas emissions, productivity, provincial trade barriers, US-Canada trade, supply chain management and Alberta separation.

A final nugget for those signing the “Withdraw from Canada” petition to consider…his conclusion, “A separate Alberta would be a poorer Alberta”. Just sayin’.

Lynn Clark,
Camrose

April 7, 2026

The optimistic picture painted for the former Heritage Savings Trust Fund (HSTF) by MLA Lovely requires rigorous scrutiny; HSFT assets now reside in the Heritage Fund Opportunities Corporation (HFOC). Hopefully, Albertans will see a return to Premier Lougheed’s financial vision coupled with fiscal management that has been sorely lacking during the past four decades.

Initiated by Premier Lougheed in 1976, the HSTF started at $1.5 billion and is now $32 billion in 2026 (with projected growth to $250 billion by 2050). From 2022 to 2026, $5.6 billion was added using borrowed $4 billion. From 1976 to 2020, $18.7 billion was deposited in the HSTF, but more than $45.8 billion (including interest), has been withdrawn (pilfered, according to the Globe and Mail)) into general revenue to balance the budget by Provincial governments.

In grade 10, my math class teacher summarized the lesson on simple and compound interest by saying, “If you remember ONE thing from this class…do NOT spend the interest on ANY investment.” Hmmm!

Dr. Globerman, senior economist at the Fraser Institute, has raised warning flags concerning the working (and unclear) relationship between the HSTF, the HFOC and AIMCo. AIMCo manages many Albertans’ pensions and consistently underperforms on investments; AIMCo’s “brain child” investors report a 7.5 per cent return on investment compared to typical 16 per cent ROIs by individuals using their financial advisors.
The Alberta government announced the HFOC will operate akin to a Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF). SWF best practices require strict independence of the HFOC’s ongoing investment and operational activities from government interference.

Globerman’s concern is the financial danger posed by SWFs investing in favoured domestic industries/companies running the risk of corruption and industrial policy objectives that typically result in sub-par investment returns. SWFs are forbidden or restricted from investing domestically and should be carried out by legally separate companies. He is concerned that HFOC’s mandate statement seemingly goes beyond generating returns, “with the government adding that the HFOC will financially support areas that matter to Albertans, such as technology, energy and infrastructure.”

Recent firings of many senior government officials, appointees and public board members in many departments underscore the need for freedom from political interference.

What could possibly go wrong?

Lynn Clark,
Camrose

April 7, 2026

With the Middle East catastrophe unfolding in grim detail, it’s only natural to despair at all the death and suffering, but that makes it even more important for Canadians to focus on the good that is still being created, and can be created in the future.

Soon the World Bank will likely look to renew funding of the Global Financing Facility (GFF). The GFF is an amazing mechanism which works with low-income countries to turn small grants into huge returns, building communities, strengthening economies, and saving lives. And it works.

While so much good has been undermined of late, here’s a chance for our federal government to set the example for other countries to follow suit with GFF funding, and prevent countless maternal and child deaths around the world.

Nathaniel Pool,
Victoria, BC

April 7, 2026

The new Parks 100 year commemorative plaque on memorial monument should read:

Miquelon Lake was the 4,500-year-old finite glacial headwaters of Beaver Hills watershed.

In 1926, Premier John Brownlee, et. al., terminated this unique ecosystem, Calgary Power unilaterally diverted the flow in the opposite direction for social engineering including razing Beaver Hill Lakes and cooling the Camrose power plant that used Coal from Stoney Creek Colliery owned by Frank Farley then warden at Miquelon Lake.

Dennis Fenske,
Camrose

March 31, 2026

I do not know to what extent the Battle River Watershed Alliance has knowledge of the planned data centres. The residents of Olds, for example, first heard about the planned data centre there, on 320 acres, on the radio. Data centres use phenomenal amounts of water; it is frightening to us that with all the talk about care of our water, this is not being translated into having open discussions about water used by data centres. Although some data centres claim that the majority of the water is recycled (i.e. 85 per cent), the rest is permanently contaminated.

We have heard a figure of around 45 data centres planned for Alberta, the majority near Edmonton, Calgary and towns closer to those two cities.

Karin MacCarthy,
Camrose

March 31, 2026

In my letter published in the March 10th edition of The Camrose Booster regarding leadership and the Forever Canadian petition, I made a clerical error while listing my family’s sports records.

​I stated my son, David Jacobsen, had 13 championships; however, he has earned six provincial championships in total. As my letter was founded on the principles of integrity and not changing the rules, I felt it was only right to be the first to correct the score.

​My family remains proud of our championship titles and our commitment to the values of honest leadership.

Darlene Jacobsen,
Camrose 

March 31, 2026

I am writing in response to some of the “jokes” contained in the “Booster Banter: St. Patrick’s Day Edition” in the March 10 issue. While much of this content consisted of lighthearted, harmless comments about clover, good luck, and Riverdance, half relied on stereotypes of Irish individuals – who were frequently labelled with the homogenizing names Paddy and Murphy – as stupid, inept, unable to care for themselves, and (in one case) addicted to alcohol.

Attitudes such as these about Irish people underpinned centuries of often-brutal colonization of the Irish by the English up to the twentieth century, and these deeply rooted prejudices followed Irish immigrants to Canada and other countries, often leading to further marginalization in their new homelands.

In 2026, I think most Canadians would agree that statements poking fun at any ethnic or racialized group are unacceptable. We have learned that such “jokes” are often used in an attempt to make hurtful and outmoded attitudes more palatable to an audience.

I by no means ascribe this intention to The Booster staff. However, I do think we must all consider the impact words have and be vigilant in recognizing, and not perpetuating, stereotypes or prejudice in any form.

Deanna Mason,
Camrose

March 31, 2026

We all are concerned about Alberta separation, but calling separatists “ignorant and racist” is fear mongering and promotes hatred. I challenge everyone to look up some pro-separation sites, like “Fairness Alberta” and “Alberta Prosperity Project” then read them with an open mind. They are thoughtfully written by lawyers, businessmen, professors, etc.

Some people claim we have not tried to negotiate. Look up the Triple E Senate Reform from the 1980s; The Firewall Letter written to Ottawa in 2001, the referendum against equalization. Did you know that the equalization formula has a requirement to be reviewed every five years?

In 2018, the federal government decided to ignore that until 2029! There are many other examples of federal overreach.

If enough signatures are gathered, we have a referendum. There will be more discussions. If it is successful, new negotiations will begin. Probably not a complete break, but maybe more equitable treatment.

Ontario and Quebec have 200 seats out of 343 in the House of Commons, 48 Senators to the West’s 24 and six judges out of nine in the Supreme Court. How else do we get Ottawa to negotiate? If we do nothing, then what?

Joyce Schmidt,
Ohaton

March 31, 2026

I personally do believe that Danielle Smith is being played by Mark Carney. It would be a good idea if our premier should not agree to any new industrial carbon emissions without having something in return for example cancelling Bill C-69 or Bill C-49. Remember Bill C-69 is the Impact Assessment Act and  Bill C-49 is the bill which amended the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Atlantic Accord.

I read about this in a different publication in the letters to the editor section. This is just something for all of you to think about.

Lorne Vanderwoude,
Camrose

March 10, 2026

I am a firm believer in the old phrase that insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different outcome.

According to reports, Conservative MP Matt Jeneroux has left the Conservatives and joined the Liberals. Jeneroux has represented the riding of Edmonton Riverbend since 2015. I do wonder what may have influenced his decision.

A move like this could spark discussion about whether voters should have the opportunity to weigh in through a by-election so they can decide who they want representing their area.

I remember December 17, 2014, when Danielle Smith crossed the floor to join Jim Prentice. In the following 2015 election, he lost that election to the NDP in 2015.

In my opinion, attempts to gain support from members of other parties raise important questions about how governments try to build a majority. Just something to think about.

Lorne Vanderwoude,
Camrose

March 10, 2026

Following up on my recent comments regarding the Citizen Initiative Act, I think it is important for Albertans to understand why “fair play” is such a non-negotiable value for my family and the community we serve.

In sports, we measure leadership by results and integrity. Between my three Provincial Softball Championships and my son David Jacobsen’s record – including six Provincial titles as a player and seven championships with the Daysland Northstars – our family has been part of at least 16 championship teams. We know that you don’t get to the winner’s circle by ignoring the clock or changing the rules when you’re losing.

Today, David serves as the head coach of the Camrose Bruins. The fact that the Bruins are currently outdrawing the Kodiaks in attendance isn’t just about hockey; it’s about a community gravitating toward leadership they trust and a culture that respects the fans.

When questions arise about timelines related to the Forever Canadian petition under the Citizen Initiative Act, many Albertans are paying close attention to how the process unfolds. More than 404,000 Albertans signed the petition, and like my former players and David’s current fans – they expect the people in charge to have the same integrity we demand on the ice and the diamond.

Darlene Jacobsen,
New Norway

March 3, 2026

I have extremely missed the flyers from all the businesses. As a senior citizen, I am not on the computer to check, however, I have heard other complaints from people on the computer commenting they also miss the paper flyers.

I only receive Co-op and Canadian Tire and, as a result, that is what I tend to support. I would like to support other businesses, but without their flyers I don’t bother going in. Thank you, Booster, I look forward to it every week, great job!

Reta LeGear,
Forrestburg

March 3, 2026

Donald J. Trump notwithstanding one’s feelings, Canadians DO owe him a debt of gratitude for awakening our politicians and our collective Canadian psyche from decades of slumber, expediency and complacency. Since World War II, Canada has enjoyed living under the umbrella of U.S. military protection with NATO and NORAD and has relied upon Canadian non-value-added exports to the U.S. and elsewhere to maintain a comfortable standard of living.

Growing up on a small farm on the prairies, “being a good neighbour” was a maxim that everyone lived by for a sense of community and a necessity for mutual survival. Sadly, that basic principle has gone by the wayside across North America. In Canadian politics, there is a growing sense of regional selfishness and alienation within our national fabric.

Hopefully, PM Carney can restore Canadian pride and sense of unity in Canadian politicians and citizens alike to put aside political partisanship, regional complaints and engender a sense of cooperation to tackle decades long issues.

So…WHY is Canada on its back foot? Robert Bothwell, a historian who specializes in post-1945 Canadian history, cites a multitude of poor business decisions, a failure to support research and development in applied technology, questionable short-term policies by governing Liberal and Conservative administrations who focused upon national expediency and re-electability rather than long term sustainability.

Canadians should no longer rely upon our U.S. neighbours to exhibit “neighbourliness” and respect our sovereignty; PM Carney’s focus upon east-west initiatives must replace historical north-south priorities. It is timely to re-evaluate military alliances, defence spending, imports, value added exports, supply chains, energy sources, environmental protection, a national electrical grid, transportation, maritime sovereignty, seaports, self sufficiency in energy supplies, investment in R&D, review taxation guidelines for foreign and domestic investments, and reducing the power of oligopolies’ control as a means of making life more affordable for Canadians.

Prioritizing and solving some of these historical issues will result in short term pain but it is important to think “outside the box” and it is critical for Premiers to get in harness and pull in the direction of national interest for the sake of children/grandchildren.

Finally, it is ironic that a controversy surrounding a bridge named for Gordie Howe (whose rough “elbows” style of play) fits with the playbook for an “elbows up” stance in U.S.-Canada relations.

Lynn Clark,
Camrose

March 3, 2026

After working 20 enjoyable and rewarding years driving handicapped bus with City Transit, I felt that I had a front row seat observing the plight of AISH recipients in Alberta.

Recent decision made by our government make me wonder why is there such a lack of empathy towards the disabled and handicapped community. I suppose until someone is affected by a situation it is easy to look away.  Federal government recently gave AISH recipients $200 a month and Alberta government promptly lowered AISH by $200.

How can anyone survive on only $1,940 a month? or the $1,740 the government plans on lowering it to? An AISH recipient I recently spoke with had her rent raised from $287 a month to $570, an increase of $283. Where are the defensless, unfortunate souls supposed to find this money?

Ron Henschell,
Edmonton

February 24, 2026

Watching the Canadian Men’s Olympic Hockey Team during these 2026 Olympics with great interest and excitement made me remember the 2018 Olympic season in PyeongChang, South Korea. The NHL players were not allowed to compete in the 2018 Winter Olympics due to a series of disputes between the NHL and the IOC. It was decided that the 2018 team would be selected from Canadians who had played minor hockey in Canada or on college teams across North America.

Camrose had huge bragging rights that year, as not only was the village of Armena’s Karl Stollery selected for the Olympic team, but so was Mason Raymond from Cochrane, Alberta. Both had played for the Camrose Kodiaks! Karl had played for the Camrose Kodiaks AAA team from 2002 to 2004, then for four exciting seasons with the Kodiaks from 2004 to 2008. Mason Raymond was a teammate of Stollery on the Kodiaks’ team from 2004 to 2005.

Wouldn’t this be an opportune time to see some recognition from the Town of Camrose for these two former Olympians, who proudly brought home the bronze medal to Canada and to Camrose that year, at the Encana Arena where they had once played hockey together?

Karl Stollery has retired after playing for the Colorado Avalanche, San Jose Sharks and New Jersey Devils. He later played in the European professional hockey leagues (KHL and SHL) and finished his career in the Italian team of the ICE Hockey League (ICEHL). He has now settled on the fourth generation Stollery family farm near Armena, where he learned to play hockey on the skating rink his father would make every year over their vegetable garden. Time to retire his jersey to the rafters of the Encana Arena!

Bonnie Hoyer,
St. Albert

February 24, 2026

There is a petition currently circulating in Alberta to block coal mining in the Rockies. In 1976, the Lougheed government banned coal mining around the headwaters of rivers on the eastern slopes because it is just too risky. The Alberta government removed the ban in 2020, later reinstated the ban, but now has removed it again. With new coal mines being planned, the musician Corb Lund, who initiated the petition said, “Coal mines destroy the landscape, and release toxic chemicals into the air and water, which threatens fish, birds, wildlife, livestock and the water we drink.”

A poll by Leger Research for Livingstone Landowners Group in September 2021 found that 77 per cent of Albertans were concerned about the potential impact of coal mining on rivers and water in Alberta’s Eastern Slopes. Scientists have been clear that coal mining puts Alberta nature at risk. A University of Calgary report concluded that, “the financial gains of allowing a hypothetical coal mine in the Rockies eastern foothills would be outweighed by the drawbacks.” New coal mines make no sense.

On April 12, 2024, a judge ordered the government to release over 6,000 records requested by a group of southern Alberta ranchers who had been trying to understand why the government rescinded the 1976 Coal Policy, but Alberta Energy and Minerals filed for an appeal of the justice’s decision in order to keep the documents from the public. So we don’t know why we are getting new coal mines.

I urge you to take action against this, go to the Water Not Coal website. Together we can protect the Alberta we love. It has been said that what a man gets after achieving his goals is not nearly as important as what a man becomes after achieving his goals.

Rob Hill,
Camrose

February 24, 2026

To the Signatories of the Open Letter, The Camrose Booster, January 20:

We want to pass on our sincere thanks to each of you. Having had the opportunity recently to discuss, as a group of NDP executive members, the importance of the rule of law as one of the key pillars of democracy, we are proud and grateful for the fact that you have each put your name to such a letter, demonstrating that independent thought is alive in our local community.

Your statements, referencing your belief that laws should not be changed arbitrarily to benefit a party in power, that no legal professional should operate above professional sanctions, and that courts must operate independently of political pressure or oversight, are timely and important. You also alluded to the fact that the human rights granted in the Charter of Rights and Freedoms should not be casually suspended by use of the Notwithstanding Clause.

As individuals from all walks of life, we firmly support your statements and we believe human rights exist to fundamentally protect ALL people, particularly those who are marginalized and powerless, and not just those people who agree with the sitting government.

To conclude, we applaud your integrity. We hope your letter gives people in Camrose, (and other cities) the courage to speak to their friends and neighbours about current events, having been encouraged by the words of legal professionals they know and trust. Our group discussed the implications of your letter and the potential harm that could come from complacency on this issue. We are very grateful that you chose to shine a light on the ways our judicial system is being manipulated in the pursuit of power.

Charley Boyd,
Grace Doucet,
Arlene Hendrickson, Margaret Holliston,
Pat Johnston,
Ellen Parker,
Tonya Ratushniak,
Linda Rowswell,
Camrose

February 24, 2026

This note is a very sincere thank you to Gerald Pilger for his guest editorial relating his visit to Uganda. I also know that recently one of the UCP MLAs visited Tanzania and climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro and I would hope he would have the courage to share his experience of interacting with the locals and about the challenges faced by people in Tanzania.

Jagdish Patel,
Camrose

February 17, 2026

We would like to add our support and voices to those of Mr. Lynn Clark and to the group of citizens including Mr. and Mrs. Don and Marie Ruzicka whose letters were printed in the February 3 issue of The Booster. Thank you all for making your points so clearly and allowing those of us less able to do so to ride upon your coattails.

The alarming rise of Alberta Separatists have put the fate of our Alberta in our Canada to be very concerning. It is causing a great deal of fear for those of us in our mid-eighties.

In any responsible western nation, a leader, especially one who is considered as unstable as the one currently in USA, would be quietly assisted to receive the help he so desperately requires. Instead the Americans laud him and kowtow to him. This certainly questions their motives as well.

The Roman Empire fell, the Third Reich fell, the USSR fell and the wall crashed. The American Empire is rapidly becoming an international pariah state and careening wildly into a huge abyss.

Bonnie and Glen Freadrich,
Camrose

February 17, 2026

If I hope to make an informed, fact-based decision, should there be a referendum on Alberta separating from Canada, there are questions that I would need answers to. Following are some of those questions that keep me up at night:
Will I need a passport to visit family and friends in Canada?

Who will pay for establishing the infrastructure and populating the crossing site structures? There will be four borders that would need to be policed.
What would happen to Lloydminster?

While we may still be able to participate in the NHL, what happens to the Calgary Stampeders and Edmonton Elks of the Canadian Football League?
If Transport Canada owns the land for our two major airports and sets aviation safety and security standards, would these properties need to be purchased and will it be safe to fly?

What is the actual amount of dollars that the Canadian Government contributes to the province for shared cost projects such as schools, roadways and hospitals? If we presently rely on federal funding to assist in the construction of these projects, how and who will make up for this lost source of funding?

Will the Farm Credit Corporation (FCC), a federal crown corporation, be required to call in all the loans of farmers and agri-businesses in this new sovereign state? Since I am part of a farm operation, this is a crucial question, so I looked it up to determine what the impact might be should all the loans need to be paid back. According to FCC’s most recent annual report, FCC serves more than 102,000 customers nationwide and manages a loan portfolio of approximately $54 billion. Of that, roughly $9.6 billion is invested in Alberta alone. Further research revealed that the agri-food sector is a “major economic driver” for the provincial government and contributes over a billion dollars in annual tax revenue. What will be the impact if FCC loans are called in?

Will national charities, such as the Canadian Cancer Society and the Heart and Stroke Foundation, continue to support researchers in our hospitals and will those researchers be able to continue their work here if they don’t have state of the art facilities?

Will we be forced to get annexed by the United States because we don’t have the money to survive independently?

Who will be our trading partners and how will we ship our products beyond our borders?

Although some may consider my questions trivial and irrelevant, I would appreciate honest, well-researched answers.

I am, after all, responsible in part, for the future of this province.

Marj Nahirniak,
Camrose County

February 17, 2026

I am writing to comment on Gerald Pilger’s column. He stated his outlook on separation and pointed out many things that are downside in a clear, unambiguous and practical way, mentioning subjects that are glossed over by too many pro-separatists. I wish to point out these are not all the downsides by any means. I could add to it, but for those who do not want to look into the practicalities, my word will mean little.

Much has been pointed out elsewhere. If one does not choose to look into it,  that is a pretty cavalier attitude to display to such a potentially serious subject.

Ken J. Sharp,
Ladysmith, B.C.

February 17, 2026

I’m responding to your ad in last week’s Booster,
which we look forward to receiving every week. It was very disappointing when we stopped receiving most of the flyers. We feel like the rural community doesn’t seem to matter to some of the businesses. Kudos to the few businesses that do appreciate our business. The bigger stores seem to think that everyone should get the flyers online now, sad that is because not all of us enjoy going online to look for flyers.

Thanks to The Camrose Booster for the few flyers that we still receive.

Rod and Denise Blatz,
Bawlf

February 17, 2026

Admittedly, I have lost track of who was the driving force behind the return of the dazzling tree lights to the trees on beautiful Main Street, Camrose, and by the same token, I am not sure who is ultimately in charge of changing the LED colours, or ensuring the lights  are strung properly and in peak operating condition, always. The front page of the
February 10th Booster reminded me of how valuable these lights are to bring recognition to the community and in particular to our prized downtown core. Each time we head to Main Street, we feel fortunate to be greeted with the appeal of these lights. Well done, Camrose!

Al Rostad,
Camrose

February 17, 2026

Admittedly, I have lost track of who was the driving force behind the return of the dazzling tree lights to the trees on beautiful Main Street, Camrose, and by the same token, I am not sure who is ultimately in charge of changing the LED colours, or ensuring the lights  are strung properly and in peak operating condition, always. The front page of the
February 10th Booster reminded me of how valuable these lights are to bring recognition to the community and in particular to our prized downtown core. Each time we head to Main Street, we feel fortunate to be greeted with the appeal of these lights. Well done, Camrose!

Al Rostad,
Camrose

February 10, 2026

Donald Trump’s statement that Canada needs the U.S.A. is interesting. Northeastern States and Midwestern States import electricity from Canada. The U.S.A. imports 99 per cent of its natural gas requirements from Canada.

Looks like U.S.A. needs Canada, otherwise it would be dark and cold in the U.S.A.

Tom Leithead,
Camrose

February 10, 2026

I read an article on January 20, by Joe Vamer, who wrote that praising Beijing’s “new world order” is a costly misstep for Carney and Canada. Vamer stated in his article, “When a Canadian prime minister praises the idea of a ‘new world order’ while sitting in China, he is not engaging in neutral diplomacy.

“He is endorsing language that carries an extremely specific meaning in Beijing. In the Chinese strategic doctrine, a ‘new world order’ is not about reforming globalization. Its real objective is to replace American power and to weaken western alliances and replacing Liberal norms with a hierarchical system built on state control and non interference that shields authoritarian rule.”

This is not good for Canada. Most Canadians are clueless of what this man is doing to our country. This is just something for all of you to think about.

Lorne Vanderwoude,
Camrose

February 10, 2026

In his recent column, MP Pierre Poilievre rightfully highlighted the frustration rural Albertans feel regarding the CFIA’s proposed amendments to livestock traceability. As someone from New Norway who values the “land and legacy” of our agricultural sector, I share the concern over any “administrative nightmare” that puts red tape ahead of ranching.

However, a critical piece of data was missing from that column: The federation actually worked.
On January 10, 2026, following a massive pushback from 600 producers at a meeting in Innisfail, the CFIA officially announced a pause on the publication of these amendments to allow for deeper consultation. This is a significant victory for the livestock industry, yet it was omitted in favour of a “dog whistle” narrative that suggests we are helpless against Ottawa.

We don’t need more rage-farming; we need pragmatic solutions. While federal Conservative slogans call for “scrapping” traceability, those of us who live a conservative lifestyle know that robust traceability is what secures our billion-dollar access to global markets. Without it, one sick animal could lock out Alberta beef overnight.

The real solution isn’t to leave Canada or simply shout at it. The solution is for a pragmatic provincial government to step up. If federal health standards require expensive digital tags and scanners, the Province should provide the grants and technology to ensure our producers can comply without a financial burden.

We need to move past the “soap opera” of separatism and slogans. It is time for a “Progressive” approach to conservatism that protects the rancher’s wallet while securing the industry’s future. Alberta is “Forever Canadian”, not because we are weak, but because we are strong enough to speak up, hit the pause button, and change the rules to work for us.

Darlene Jacobsen,
New Norway

February 10, 2026

It seems that every other week there is a letter stating that Alberta would be better off economically if we separated from Canada. The separatists are just plain wrong. The British people were also told that they would be better off if they separated from the European Union. They were misinformed and are now a poorer country for their mistake. Alberta separatists like to point to the equalization payments that go to Quebec, conveniently overlooking the fact that Quebec was a “have” province until talk of separation turned Quebec into a “have not” province.

In July, University of Calgary economist Trevor Tombe wrote an article first published in The Hub called “A separate Alberta would be a poorer Alberta.” His reasons are too numerous for this letter. I urge you to find the article for yourself. He concludes that separating would hurt all of Canada, but hurt Alberta the most. He calculates that an independent Alberta would be $20 billion/year poorer. Put another way, separation would cost every Albertan $4,000 each year. Many people already struggle with affordability. We don’t need separatists to make it harder for us.

In May, the CEO of ATCO Nancy Southern stated that just the talk of separating was already driving investment out of Alberta. Imagine how much harm a divisive petition campaign, or even worse, a referendum campaign, would do. Alberta separatism makes no sense, but there is a small segment of Albertans who will simply not accept facts. We need our political leaders to put an end to this nonsense before the separatists do any more damage to Alberta. All the Alberta government has to do is point to the success of the Forever Canadian petition and pass a motion in the legislature stating that the issue is closed – we are staying in Canada. Done, and we move on to issues that matter.

Rob Hill,
Camrose

February 3, 2026

We would like to publicly acknowledge and thank the Camrose lawyers who sent the open letter to The Booster. As the lawyers pointed out, we are living in unprecedented times where the provincial government rewrites rules and legislation as it suits them. The UCP have stripped powers from the Chief Electoral Officer so they can no longer check on government overreach. Premier Smith has invoked the Notwithstanding Clause multiple times, overriding individual rights and freedoms. In addition, the government has taken powers away from the Law Society of Alberta to hold the Justice Minister accountable all the while criticizing our courts and trying to undermine their legitimacy.

These actions by the provincial government are more than unacceptable – they are dangerous. We need a government that represents the people and protects our rights. The government’s job is to work for the people, something Premier Smith and the UCP seem to have forgotten.

Thank you to the lawyers for your courage and your call for citizens to take up the cause and let this government know we will not stand idly by while democracy is dismantled. We citizens endorse your letter and share your concerns and call for action.

D’Arcy and Jane Arial
Emily Coykendall
Lawrence and Denise Dufresne
Paula Marentette
Janet McGeer
Treva and John Olson
Tim and Ellen Parker
Maya Rathnavalu
Larry and Margaret Rathnavalu
Don and Marie Ruzicka
Nola Sharp
Craig Wentland,
Camrose

February 3, 2026

Recent events in the U.S. with ICE agents rounding up suspected illegals (denounced by neighbours) who are using unprecedented and excessive force is reminiscent of Hitler’s Brownshirts rounding up Jews in Germany in the 1930s. Two quotes come to mind...

‘‘We should always be aware that what now lies in the past once lay in the future.” – Historian F.W. Maitland (1850-1906).

 “First, they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out – because I was not a socialist. Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out – because I was not a trade unionist. Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out – because I was not a Jew. Then they came for me – and there was no one left to speak for me.” – Clergyman Martin Niemöller (1892-1984)

Hitler’s Propaganda Minister Goebbels and Homeland Security Advisor Stephen Miller had both scapegoated an identifiable group based upon populist bigotry using disinformation to wage a propaganda campaign. Goering, Heydrich and Himmler concocted and implemented the Final Solution and Holocaust; the cabal of Border Czar Homan, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, et. al. are using similar procedures and propaganda,  hopefully with lesser consequences.
Hitler’s Foreign Minister Von Ribbentrop planned the invasion of a host of European countries and ultimately, betrayed Russia; is Marco Rubio, Secretary of State, a current back-channel envoy for the ‘‘western hemisphere of influence” Project 2025 plan between Trump and Putin to, ultimately, betray Canada? It is becoming increasingly evident that the Helsinki Summit in 2018 was the first step in Trump’s subterfuge to get out of NATO, seek revenge on Ukrainian officials, and develop alliances to support his personal quest to become the dictator of the West.

Is U.S. Attorney General Bondi’s legal advice to Trump merely subterfuge to find ways and means to legitimize Trump’s insatiable desire for power, perhaps following the playbook of Mein Kampf? Is what we are observing in Minnesota the U.S. modern version of Kristallnacht as the U.S. begins its descent into anarchy?

Thankfully, we have world leaders (and hopefully American voters) that have taken Niemöller’s warnings to heart and are ‘‘speaking out” and taking action.

Lynn Clark,
Camrose 

February 3, 2026

A few points to consider before we cast a vote for separation. First of all, what type of monetary system would we adopt? And what is the basis for the monetary gold or, heaven forbid, Bitcoin? If we lost the Canadian dollar, what would your assets be worth? How much would we stand to lose and we have to revive everything? Would the big banks still issue loans and mortgages in Canadian dollars? Or would Alberta not have access to Canadian dollars?
Our Canadian passports would no longer be valid anywhere in the world. Who would fund our new post office that we would require? Who would fund the Trans Canada, Yellowhead Highways, the federal parks, and our current police force? The RCMP would be gone (also thanks to Danielle Smith). Who would fund the international airports? What would happen to the federal full-time jobs? Those would be eliminated. Yes, we give many, in fact, several billion dollars in equalization payments to the poorer provinces, but we are supposedly making many more billions from resources, so if this is true, why is Alberta $82.9 billion in debt? A debt that is growing day by day.

Have we forgotten the billions we receive back from Ottawa for healthcare, education, sports, policing? Should we see another weather disaster, guess what? No military to help out. The railways are also under federal jurisdiction, so would they be compelled to haul our grain, coal and oil? I hear every day that we have no say in the federal politics because every election held is over when it reaches the Manitoba border. Well, people, guess where the population is? Yep! Quebec and Ontario, that is who dictates who goes into power.

Don’t forget that Conservatives have been voted in numerous times. We really have a lot to lose, so let’s think about the dire consequences of voting to separate.

Louis Hagel,
Camrose

January 27, 2026

The constitutional makeup of Canada is not designed for unity. Unity is comprised of fairness and balance. Out of the 343 seats in the House of Commons, Quebec and Ontario have 200. The remaining 143 seats come from the rest of Canada. This gives these two provinces the power to direct the affairs of Canada regardless of what political party forms the government.

Presently, this power is used to stifle the creation of wealth in Alberta while extracting 20 billion dollars a year in transfer payments. This does not inspire unity. It ferments the exact opposite. Those who support the continuation of such a system embrace unfairness and imbalance. The imbalance in the Canadian power structure could be rectified by reforming the Senate  – giving each province an elected, equal and effective voice. This would balance representation by population in the House of Commons. There is no interest in Ottawa in addressing the imbalance existing within our Constitution.

History demonstrates the human spirit strives for fairness and balance and ultimately will not be denied. Therefore, independence is a beckoning alternative.

Jack Ramsay,
Camrose

January 27, 2026

I would like to thank the Camrose lawyers who expressed their concerns about the actions of our provincial Government. There is an old protest slogan that says “Democracy Dies in Silence.” So it is time for me to come forward to voice my concerns about our UCP Government. To the concerns of the lawyers who wrote the letter I would like to add my concerns:

 A health care system in complete disarray that is failing to meet the needs of the citizens. Reduced and insufficient funding for education at all levels. Reduced support and outright attacks on the most vulnerable members of our community. Reducing or eliminating environmental regulations. Placing restrictions on renewable energy not imposed on the oil and gas industry.

However, my biggest concern is a government that seems to be open to Alberta separating from Canada – maybe not in words, but certainly in actions. The Alberta Separation movement should not be taken lightly. For the vast majority of Albertans who don’t support separation, it is our responsibility and duty to speak up.

I am calling on our MLA Jackie Lovely to publicly commit to Alberta remaining in Canada and to correct the misinformation being put forward by those who would see Alberta leave Canada. I will take your silence and the silence of your government as a vote for separation. I will not be silent in my support for Alberta and Canada.

Bill Sears,
Camrose

January 27, 2026

In a time when we hear horror stories of long waits, lack of help and service in our emergency departments all across the country and alarming results leaving families disillusioned and heartbroken, I had my own experience on January 16 in St. Mary’s Hospital’s Emergency Room (ER).

I arrived at the ER in distress and nervous, unable to get a good breath, I was attended to within five minutes of arriving. The triage nurse did her thing and I was in a room and in a bed post haste. I was seen by a doctor who was kind, patient and efficient. Tests were done and I was hooked up to a monitor that determined I was experiencing atrial fibrillation. Then followed blood work, ECG, CT scan, x-ray and more doctor’s attention. All the time I received kindness, reassurance and humour to ease the tensions.

Finally at 2:00 a.m. on January 17, Dr. Enias Mabhegedhe explained to me the decision was made to “shock” my heart back to a steady beat. He did this with exceptional patience and care. Within minutes, my errant heart was beating at a steady 67. I was later discharged with follow-up instructions. Within 24 hours, I was tended to, listened to and fixed.

To all the doctors, nurses, techs, cleaning staff and food preps at the hospital, a very big thank you from my grateful and, again, steady heart.

Wendy Hamer,
Camrose

January 27, 2026

I was born and raised in Alberta and have lived in Alberta for 58 of my 73 years. I own some shares in Suncor and TC Energy and South Bow Corp and stand to benefit from a coastal pipeline.
But I must take exception to the column – it is typical political claptrap.

He phrased his wording about a potential Pipeline to the Pacific carefully and ignored the other three projects in the MOU – the Pathways Project, nuclear generation of thousands of megawatts of Al computing power and the large transmission interties with B.C. and Saskatchewan.

It is not the Federal Government’s job to BUILD the pipeline – their role is to FACILITATE its construction. He must have missed the “private sector constructed and financed” detail. Did he even read the entire MOU?

I assume the “massive carbon tax” he refers to is the industrial carbon pricing of $130/tonne under Alberta’s TIER system  to which both Alberta and the Federal governments agreed.

He mentions “shovels in the ground” but there is no principal owner/operator, no design, no route, no budget, no schedule, etc., etc. He has no constructive suggestions to overcome the opposition to the pipeline from the province of BC, the Indigenous population, and the coastal fishermen/fisherwomen.

The MOU goes on to list eight Commitments made by Alberta, 11 commitments made by Canada and 17 joint commitments. The MOU ends with a section on an Implementation Committee responsible for delivering seven outcomes – four of them on or before April 1, 2026. Time’s a ticking. I would encourage people to read the MOU for themselves.

Don Cherkas,
Camrose

January 20, 2026

Your readers may recall that I shared a copy of my recent letter to Jackie Lovely, Camrose MLA, regarding the concerning state of health care in Alberta as a letter-to-the-editor in the January 13 edition of The Camrose Booster.

I did hear back from the MLA’s office – and in a rather timely way, too! However, it was Ms. Lovely’s assistant who responded, primarily referencing the government’s Acute Care Action Plan, which includes, quoted below:

Adding more than 1,000 new acute care beds in Edmonton and Calgary, including 700 new beds in Edmonton (350 each at the Misericordia and Grey Nuns hospitals).

Funding 50,000 additional surgeries to reduce wait times.

Increasing community and psychiatric care spaces.
Implementing a provincial neonatal intensive care strategy to support vulnerable infants.

Advancing a six‑priority framework focused on long‑term capital planning, workforce sustainability, and increasing flexibility for healthcare professionals.

I read the response several times, but couldn’t uncover many (any?) helpful details regarding the plan. A very partial breakdown regarding those 1,000 new beds is provided, but without a timeline. (I have since been told that these are probably not really new beds insofar as the government may, in fact, be reinstating 1,000 beds previously cut. I need to fact-check that one.)

Moreover, the response did not address my concern regarding how the addition of private health care within our public system will improve patient access and care rather than worsen it. I note mention of “increasing flexibility for healthcare professionals,” but am unsure of what that actually means. I suspect it is a veiled reference to previous announcements regarding private provision, and remain deeply worried that “increased flexibility” will result in increased pressure on our health-care professionals to work more, resulting in more burn-out. Exactly how will this “increased flexibility” improve patient care? Details, please, preferably backed by research.  In fact, what we really need if we are serious about patient care and preventing burn-out, is an increase in the number of health-care professionals and significant improvements in their working conditions.

We need to keep the conversation going, and continue sharing our concerns with each other and with the government. With that in mind, I encourage readers to contact the MLA’s office and also to attend the Friends of Medicare presentation with Dr. Paul Parks on Thursday, February 19, at 7:00 p.m., at the Jeanne and Peter Lougheed Centre for the Performing Arts.  Please Google as you need to register, although there is no cost.

Margaret Holliston,
Camrose

January 20, 2026

I read an article in the National Post, which came out in the January 15, 2026 edition, that Mark Carney didn’t meet with “Coastal First Nations”. He met with an environmentalist group by the name.
Coastal First Nations is an activist group endorsed by just eight out of approximately 70 First Nations on the B.C. coast.

When will Canadians learn that the Liberals cannot be trusted with telling the truth? Is Carney  continuing his bad habit of not being honest with us Canadians?

Lorne Vanderwoude,
Camrose