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Articles by Darin Clark
RD Memorial Centre celebrating 75 years with Anniversary Gala
Anniversary gala to feature traditional turkey dinner and Johnny Cash tribute show The Red Deer Memorial Centre is celebrating 75 years as a community gathering place with an anniversary gala and a fundraising campaign to upgrade lighting throughout the venue. Wanda Bornn, treasurer of the Memorial Centre's board of directors, said the building's history dates back to the Second World War, when it was built as part of a military training site.
Snowfall advisory issued for Ponoka County
Environment Canada has issued a snowfall advisory for parts of Ponoka County including Rimbey and Crestomere areas. The first significant snowfall of the year is expected. A long duration snowfall event is expected through parts of central Alberta beginning this evening and persisting until Thursday morning. Total snowfall amounts may reach 15 cm. Map of Affected area. Environment Canada Allow extra time for travel and prepare for quickly changing and deteriorating road conditions.
Lacombe Food Bank preparing Halloween food drive
Residents asked to fill donation bags with food and essential supplies The Lacombe Food Bank is asking residents to help stock its shelves this Halloween through a community food drive scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 31. Shannon McQuaig, a board member with the Lacombe Food Bank, said donation bags will be distributed to households this week, giving residents time to fill them with items for local families in need.
Lacombe Police Service investigating significant theft of catalytic converters
The Lacombe Police Service is investigating a significant theft of catalytic converters from several buses located in the 5400 block of 56 Avenue in Lacombe. The thefts are believed to have occurred between October 23 and October 26, 2026, during which time catalytic converters were stolen from multiple buses, resulting in substantial financial losses.
Trick, Treat or Cheat? Central Alberta’s Candy Habits Revealed
With Halloween just around the corner, Central Alberta residents appear to be getting a head start on stocking up for trick-or-treaters. The only question is how much of that candy will actually make it to Oct. 31. A recent Central Alberta Online poll asked readers whether they had already bought their Halloween candy, and the results suggest many are getting prepared for the spooky season.
Snow and strong winds causing poor conditions in some parts of Central Alberta Friday
Snow mixed with rain and strong northwesterly winds are creating poor conditions in some areas of Central Alberta Friday morning. Sunny 94 has received many calls about slippery conditions, slushy sections on area highways, and limited visibility when being passed by other vehicles. In some areas on the QEII the speed has been reduced to around 80 km/h. Motorists are being asked to allow for extra time and be prepared for changing road conditions.
Sylvan Lake Legion warns of scam targeting veterans
The Royal Canadian Legion Sylvan Lake Branch 212 is warning residents about phone calls from individuals claiming to collect money for veterans in Wainwright following the October 17 fire. According to the branch, two members have already received the calls. The Legion stressed that it will not telephone individuals to request money or donations. Residents are being urged to remain cautious and avoid providing personal or banking information to unsolicited callers.
Alberta concerts bring music and hope to children in Latin America
Generation Rising partners with The Amundruds for three evenings of faith-filled music in Lethbridge, Red Deer and Leduc County An Alberta family known for sharing messages of faith through music is joining forces with a Canadian charity to help children in Latin America access education and opportunities for a brighter future. Generation Rising is bringing The Amundruds, a family musical group from Lloydminster, to three Alberta communities this fall. The concerts will take place Oct.
Road closure planned Thursday for Red Deer County
Track crossing repairs will close road between Range Road 283 and Highway 2A on Oct. 22 Red Deer County is advising motorists of a temporary road closure on Township Road 360 on Thursday, Oct. 22, to allow for repairs to a railway crossing. The closure will affect the section of Township Road 360 between Range Road 283 and Highway 2A at the Canadian Pacific (CP) railway tracks. The road will be closed from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Access will be restricted to local traffic in the affected area.
Tackle your home projects for less with the Central Alberta Online Auction
Window upgrades, duct cleaning and lawn care among featured deals Homeowners looking to check a few projects off their to-do lists may find something worthwhile in the Central Alberta Online Auction. The auction features a range of home and property-related services, giving bidders an opportunity to save on projects that can add up quickly. Bidding is available through Golden West Auctions, with the auction scheduled to close Oct. 21.
Dinner dates and unique experiences featured in Central Alberta Online Auction
Local restaurants and experiences offer more than traditional gift cards Looking for a night out, a special experience or an opportunity to try something different? The Central Alberta Online Auction features a variety of local offerings that could help make a future outing more memorable. The auction includes restaurant experiences, gift cards and services from businesses across Central Alberta, with bidding scheduled to close Oct. 21.
Huge Savings with The Central Alberta Online Auction
Gift cards, home services and big-ticket items among the offerings Looking for a deal while supporting local businesses? The Central Alberta Online Auction is bringing together hundreds of items, gift cards and services, giving shoppers a chance to save on everything from home improvement projects to outdoor equipment. The online auction is available through Golden West Auctions, with bidding scheduled to close Wednesday, Oct. 21.
Snow blowers, generators and more featured in Central Alberta Online Auction
Prepare for winter while exploring local deals As Central Alberta heads toward another Alberta winter, the Central Alberta Online Auction offers shoppers a chance to browse outdoor equipment and practical items alongside gift cards and services from businesses across the region. The online auction features everything from snow blowers to portable generators, with bidding scheduled to close Oct. 21.
RDP research aims to strengthen child protection in Central Alberta
Research examines online safety education and student behaviour Red Deer Polytechnic research is examining how education and community partnerships can help protect children from exploitation and strengthen child advocacy services across Central Alberta. The work, led by Lisa Armstrong, RDP research chair, comes as communities across Alberta recognize Child Abuse Prevention Month in October.
RD County asking Spruce View residents to conserve water due to fire
Due to an active structure fire in Spruce View, Red Deer County is asking Spruce View residents to conserve water and restrict use to essential needs, while firefighting efforts place additional demands on local water resources. Residents are encouraged to reduce non-essential water use by: Postponing lawn and garden watering. Avoiding washing vehicles, driveways and other outdoor surfaces. Running dishwashers and washing machines only when necessary.
Chinook's Edge students take their science projects to the national stage
Chinook's Edge School Division (CESD) students earned a place at the Canada-Wide Science Fair last spring, including students from Cremona School, École Olds High School and Hugh Sutherland School. Among them, one student walked away with a national silver medal. Hosted by Youth Science Canada, the Canada-Wide Science Fair ran May 23 to 30, 2026, at the Edmonton EXPO Centre. About 390 finalists presented 344 projects.
Arrest made in September weapons incident
Maskwacis RCMP, with the assistance of the RCMP Emergency Response Team and Wetaskiwin RCMP, have made an arrest in relation to the heavy police presence media release issued on Sept 22, 2026, on the Montana Nation within Maskwacis. Investigation revealed that there was an altercation between two people who were known to each other, and one discharged a firearm. The victim is recovering from injuries sustained.
Dawson Gray bringing high-energy country tour to Prairie audiences
Dawson Gray never imagined music would become his career. Growing up, the Kelowna-based country artist devoted his time to baseball, not guitars, and no one in his family played music. It took a chance decision at 18 to set him on a path that has since led to sold-out shows, millions of streams and a busy summer tour across the Prairies. “It was a little bit of a roundabout path to get there,” Gray recalls. “I didn’t grow up playing music.
CESD mentorship program built to help teachers grow
Chinook's Edge School Division (CESD) has built a teacher mentorship program that has become one of its signature strengths. Every teacher new to CESD starts at Teacher Orientation, and those early in their careers then move into the division's mentorship program. Building on strengths For Rikki Matthews (fourth from the left in the photo above), who teaches Grade 6, the mentorship sessions leading into the school year took some of the pressure off.
Turkey takes the top spot in Central Alberta Thanksgiving dinner poll
More than half of respondents are sticking with the traditional bird Turkey remains the star of the Thanksgiving dinner table for many Central Alberta Online readers, but not everyone is planning a traditional holiday feast. A recent Central Alberta Online poll asked readers what they would be serving for Thanksgiving dinner, and turkey came out on top with 57.14% of the vote.
RD Public Library hosting Cree hoop dancer and author Sandra Lamouche
The Red Deer Public Library is inviting families to meet Cree hoop dancer and picture book author Sandra Lamouche during a special event at its downtown branch on Oct. 22. The event, part of the Olson Memorial Celebration of Books, will run from 6 to 7 p.m. in the branch's Children's Department. Admission is free, and no registration is required. Sharing Indigenous culture through stories and dance Lamouche is a Nehiyaw Iskwew, or Cree woman, from Bigstone Cree Nation.
RD council to consider next step in electric utility corporation plan
Proposed corporation would maintain public ownership of utility Red Deer city council will consider the next steps toward establishing a municipally controlled corporation for the city's electric utility at its Oct. 13 meeting. The recommendations would advance council's June 2025 decision to establish a Municipally Controlled Corporation (MCC) to oversee the utility's future operations.
Notre Dame High School Girls Golf Team caps off season with Provincial silver
École Secondaire Notre Dame High School’s girls golf team capped off an outstanding season by earning a provincial silver medal at the Alberta Schools’ Athletic Association Golf Provincial Championships in the Edmonton area on September 28 and 29. The girls team of Sophie Chandler, Chloe Ellis, Ryann Kirkness, and Sydney Korbyl competed over two days at Edmonton Springs Golf & Country Club and Cougar Creek Golf Resort.
Red Deer conducts 2026 Point-in-Time homeless count
The City of Red Deer and community partners are conducting the 2026 Point-in-Time Homeless Count to gather information about homelessness and help guide future planning and services. The count provides a snapshot of the number of people experiencing homelessness in Red Deer on a single day. The information will help identify trends, inform policy and service delivery, and support efforts to prevent and reduce homelessness.
Red Deer Polytechnic hosting Fall Open House Oct. 17
Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) is inviting prospective students and their families to explore its programs, facilities and student services during its Fall 2026 Open House on Saturday, Oct. 17. The event runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the polytechnic’s main campus and will offer visitors an opportunity to learn more about post-secondary education and potential career paths.
Red Deer Chamber welcomes new board members
New board members join following annual general meeting The Red Deer District Chamber has welcomed three new directors to its Board of Directors following its annual general meeting held Oct. 6. Joining the board are Ben Allan of Red Deer Polytechnic, Tosin Adetayo of GATX Rail and Erin Peden of the Red Deer & District Community Foundation. Mindy Smythe of KCB Design Build Remodel was also confirmed for a second term.
Innisfail outlines rules for provincial referendum signs
Provincial legislation governs sign placement The Town of Innisfail is reminding residents that signs and advertising related to the upcoming provincial referendum are regulated under Alberta’s Election Act, rather than the town’s municipal election sign rules. As referendum signs begin appearing throughout the community, the town says residents may have questions about where signs can be placed and what can be done if there are concerns.
Lacombe County urges residents to use lithium-ion battery safety
Fire Prevention Week highlights safe charging habits Lacombe County is recognizing Fire Prevention Week by reminding residents about the importance of safely charging devices powered by lithium-ion batteries.
Culture Camps connect Indigenous students with traditional teachings
Hands-on learning brings students closer to culture and land Indigenous students across Wolf Creek Public Schools (WCPS) are taking part in new cultural programs designed to connect them with traditional teachings and strengthen their cultural identity. The division’s Culture Camps bring students together for hands-on learning alongside Elders, Knowledge Keepers and Indigenous teachers, with support from the WCPS Indigenous Education and Reconciliation team.
RD RCMP is requesting the public’s assistance in locating 15-year-old
Red Deer RCMP is requesting the public’s assistance in locating 15-year-old Vada Baptiste. Vada was last seen on Sept. 28, 2026, in Red Deer. There is a concern for her wellbeing and police would like to speak with her. Vada is described as: 5’ 5” Tall 114 pounds Long brown Hair Brown Eyes If you have any information regarding the whereabouts of Vada, please contact the Red Deer RCMP at 403-406-2300. Sign up to get the latest local news headlines delivered directly to your inbox every afternoon.
RDES responds to two fires over the weekend
Red Deer Emergency Services (RDES) responded to two residential fires over the weekend, one at an apartment building on Saturday evening and another at a West Park home on Sunday. Saturday apartment fire At approximately 8:10 p.m. on Saturday, October 3, RDES responded to a report of a fire in a suite at an apartment building in the 2900 block of 50 Avenue. Initial reports indicated that smoke was visible from outside the building.
Wetaskiwin RCMP is requesting the public’s assistance in locating 15-year-old
Wetaskiwin RCMP is requesting the public’s assistance in locating 15-year-old Wetaskiwin resident Judson Bull. Judson was last seen in Wetaskiwin on Sept. 28, at approximately 6:45 p.m. RCMP is concerned for his wellbeing and would like to speak with him. Judson is described as: 5 feet, 1 inches tall; 110 pounds; Brown eyes; Medium length black curly hair; Last seen wearing black hoody, grey sweatpants and white shoes. Judson may also be in the areas of Edmonton or Louis Bull First Nation.
Central Alberta Online poll shows strong intent to vote in Alberta referendum
A recent poll of Central Alberta Online readers suggests strong interest in voting in Alberta’s upcoming Oct. 19 referendum. The online poll asked readers how they planned to cast their ballot, with nearly 94 per cent saying they intend to vote either on referendum day, through advance polling stations or by special ballot. The largest group, at 37.67 per cent, said they plan to vote on Oct. 19.
Charges laid in death of 92-year-old Loel Fenske
On Feb. 24, 2026, Ponoka RCMP located a deceased 92-year-old male outside his residence and the circumstances surrounding his death appeared suspicious. An autopsy confirmed the manner of death was a homicide. RCMP Major Crimes was called in to investigate. As a result of extensive investigation, Timothy Bull (48), and Syran Bull (19), both residents of Maskwacis, have been charged with the second-degree murder of Loel Fenske.
Upcoming road closure for Lacombe on Wednesday
Beginning October 7, the City of Lacombe will be completing a sewer service line repair on 50th Avenue near the C&E Trail crossing. To accommodate this work, a section of 50th Avenue will be closed to through traffic, with local traffic access maintained where possible. A detour route will be clearly marked and in place, via 48th Avenue and 58th Street.
Ponoka fall clean-up begins Oct. 13
Ponoka residents are being asked to have their excess compostable yard waste ready for collection ahead of the Town’s annual fall clean-up. The back-alley collection begins Tuesday, Oct. 13, following the Thanksgiving long weekend. The Town will make one pass through each back alley to collect yard waste that does not fit in residents’ green carts. Yard waste must be out by Oct.
Maskwacis RCMP seeking public assistance in locating missing 42-year-old
Maskwacis RCMP is asking for the public’s help in locating 42-year-old Wacey Buffalo. Wacey was last seen on Aug. 26, 2026, in Samson Cree Nation. He frequents Wetaskiwin. RCMP is worried for his wellbeing and would like to speak with him. Wacey is described as: Medium complexion; 5 feet 8 inches tall; 130 pounds; Black hair; and brown eyes, He was last seen wearing black joggers and a black top.
Red Deer RCMP drone program reaches over 300 calls in first three months
More than three months after launching Canada's first Drone as First Responder program, Red Deer RCMP says the technology is already having an impact on public and officer safety. The program launched June 18 and allows drones to be deployed to calls for service at the same time officers are dispatched. Since its launch, the drone has been used at approximately 324 calls, including break-ins, stolen vehicles and suspicious-person reports.
Two arrested after drug investigation leads to drug and cash seizure
In March 2026, Red Deer RCMP General Investigation Section (GIS) initiated a drug trafficking investigation. During the extensive investigation spanning over several months, police identified two suspects & multiple locations of interest. Seven search warrants executed On Sept. 10, 2026, the investigation culminated when police executed seven search warrants simultaneously across central Alberta, including Red Deer, Innisfail, Airdrie & a rural area north of Sundre.
Lacombe County September 24 Regular Council Meeting highlights
Lacombe County met for their regular council meeting on September 24, 2026. Here are some of the highlights from that meeting: Fish and Game Association project gets county support Lacombe County is providing up to $40,000 in in-kind support toward a proposed archery facility by the Lacombe Fish and Game Association. County council approved the contribution during its regular meeting Sept. 24.
Red Deer's 'Meet & Bleat' event runs Friday
Red Deerians are invited to get up close with some of The City’s most unusual seasonal workers at Meet & Bleat on Friday, October 2 at Kerry Wood Nature Centre. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., visitors can meet the goat herd, pet some of the goats and learn how targeted grazing helps manage invasive weeds in Red Deer’s parks and green spaces. Goats used for weed management For more than a decade, The City has used goats as one of its tools for targeted weed management.
CFL Hall of Famer Jon Cornish to be guest speaker for Small Business Week event
Local business owners and industry experts will gather in Lacombe later this month for a Small Business Week event focused on navigating changes in the labour market. The event, hosted by Burman University’s School of Business, will take place Thursday, Oct. 22, from 7 a.m. to noon at The Track on 2 in Lacombe. Featured speaker Jon Cornish is a Chartered Financial Analyst and portfolio manager with RBC Dominion Securities.
RDP apprentice ranks among top welders worldwide
A Red Deer Polytechnic apprentice has placed among the top welders in the world following an international skills competition in China. Lucas Stang earned a Medal of Excellence at the 2026 WorldSkills competition in Shanghai, ranking sixth among 39 competitors in the post-secondary Welding category.
RD County outlines planning process for potential AI Research Lab
Red Deer County is providing information on a potential land sale at Junction 42 Business Park for a proposed high-performance computing facility that would support an artificial intelligence research lab. The prospective purchaser has made an offer to buy Lot 24 for the proposed development. The county acquired the property in 2018 as part of plans to establish a commercial, industrial and agri-business hub.
RD Council approves 2027 Utilities Budget
City Council has approved the 2027 Utilities Budget following public deliberations on September 29. The approved budget establishes the funding required to operate, maintain and invest in essential utility services, including electricity distribution, water treatment and distribution, wastewater collection and treatment, and waste management services.
Cut, colour, confidence: How a Chinook's Edge partnership built real trade skills
In July, many Chinook's Edge School Division students were given a unique opportunity to participate in a work experience program. Students were given a chance to learn hands-on hair styling techniques during the course. Mikayla Stott had done hair for years before she spent July on the salon floor at Delmar College, and the four weeks showed her how much she still had to learn. "It is harder than I thought," the Innisfail High School student said.
Canadian Legend Bruce Cockburn returns to Central Alberta in April
Canadian music icon Bruce Cockburn is coming to Red Deer on April 15th, 2027. Bruce Cockburn is set to bring his acclaimed catalogue of music and a chance to see one of Canada’s most respected singer-songwriters live. 34 Albums of songs to choose from Cockburn has enjoyed a career spanning more than five decades, writing more than 350 songs and releasing 34 albums. His music has earned widespread recognition in Canada, with 22 of his albums receiving gold or platinum certification.
Meet the winner of a $55,000+ Jeep Cherokee Limited Hybrid!
After entering, playing, and waiting all summer for that life-changing call, Rae-Lynn Byerley’s patience paid off! She is the winner of Duck Duck Jeep, presented by Your Alberta Jeep Dealers and Sunny 94. “Oh my gosh! Are you for real?! Oh my gosh, thank you!” she exclaimed. Her prize? A brand-new Jeep Cherokee Limited Hybrid, valued at more than $55,000.
Olds RCMP seeks public assistance in theft of diesel investigation
On Sept. 23, 2026, between the hours of 3 and 3:30 a.m., a significant amount of diesel was stolen from the Westview Coop Cardlock located in Mountain View County. CCTV shows a large truck pulling up and stealing the fuel. The truck is described as a triple axle tanker truck with a two-tone red & white semi chassis (red hood and doors with white fenders) and a white tank.
Maskwacis RCMP advises of heavy police presence after shooting incident
Maskwacis RCMP would like to advise the public of a heavy police presence in the area Montana First Nations. Maskwacis RCMP are currently searching for a male suspect who was involved in a shooting incident that took place around 5 p.m. on Sept. 22, 2026. The incident is believed to be targeted. Alberta RCMP Emergency Response Team as well as Wetaskiwin RCMP are on scene assisting with the search.
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