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Vista Radio approved to acquire CJGY-FM Grande Prairie from Golden West Broadcasting

John White
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Vista Radio approved to acquire CJGY-FM Grande Prairie from Golden West Broadcasting

The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) has approved an application by Vista Radio Ltd. to purchase CJGY-FM Grande Prairie and its rebroadcasting transmitters in Fort St. John and Dawson Creek from Golden West Broadcasting Ltd.

The decision, published Friday as Broadcasting Decision CRTC 2025-290, authorizes Vista to acquire the assets of the Christian-music formatted station and grants the company a new broadcasting licence to continue its operation. CJGY-FM, known on air as UCB Radio, serves listeners across northwestern Alberta and northeastern British Columbia.

Under federal policy, buyers of broadcasting assets are required to make financial contributions known as tangible benefits, payments intended to support Canadian content development and broadcasting initiatives. Vista had asked for an exemption to the requirement, proposing instead to contribute $98,000, or about 6.4 percent of the transaction value, entirely to the British Columbia Institute of Technology’s Radio Arts and Entertainment program.

The Commission, however, denied the exemption request, ruling that Vista must follow the standard tangible benefits policy to ensure continued support for a broad range of industry funds and initiatives.

Public interest and local programming

In its application, Vista said the purchase would ensure CJGY-FM’s long-term sustainability and strengthen its commitment to local news and community reflection. The company operates CFRI-FM in Grande Prairie and more than 50 radio stations across Western Canada and Ontario.

Vista told the Commission it plans to enhance local programming and journalism at CJGY-FM, committing to 126 hours of local programming each broadcast week, including more than two hours of news and community updates.

The CRTC agreed, saying the sale “is in the public interest, as it will help ensure that the station continues to provide local programming to the communities of Grande Prairie, Fort St. John, and Dawson Creek.”

The regulator found that Vista’s expanded presence remains within its ownership limits under federal policy and would not harm competition or diversity of voices in the region.

Vista Radio, based in Courtenay, British Columbia, is owned by Westerkirk Capital Inc., a subsidiary of SEB Investments Corp., majority held by Thomson Investments Ltd. Golden West Broadcasting, the seller, is controlled by Elmer Hilderbrand Ltd.

With this decision, Vista strengthens its footprint in northwestern Alberta, adding CJGY-FM to a roster of local and regional stations that includes 2Day FM in Grande Prairie.

The CRTC’s full decision, Broadcasting Decision CRTC 2025-290, is available at crtc.gc.ca.

RCMP investigating animal cruelty allegations against Valleyview rescue

My GP Now
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RCMP investigating animal cruelty allegations against Valleyview rescue

Charges are pending after investigations into animals in distress and animal cruelty at a animal rescue in the Valleyview area.

While not naming any organizations, Valleyview RCMP says they are continuing the investigation, and with the help of organizations like Canadian Animal Task Force and the Alberta Animal Rescue Crew Society, have taken in hundreds of surrendered animals, including cats, dogs, horses and other livestock, in varying states of distress.

In a post on social media, AARCS officials say the animals surrendered into their care were living in extremely poor conditions at two properties operating as an animal rescue.

“We sent veterinary staff and experienced volunteers to ensure every animal could be examined, receive urgent care if needed, and be transported to safety,” the statement continued.

Police say the animals continue to be cared for, and they expect further details on the investigation will be released in the coming days.

NWP Fairview campus to close in 2026

My Grande Prairie Now Staff
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NWP Fairview campus to close in 2026

Northwestern Polytechnic’s Fairview Campus will close in the summer of 2026.

The decision to close the Fairview campus comes after a review of finances for the institutions, with Board of Governors members eventually coming to the conclusion that the satellite campus is no longer financially sustainable, nor does it meet the needs of students or industry.

Board Chair Shawna Miller says they recognize that the Fairview campus closure will have a significant impact on staff, students and the community as a whole.

“We did not come to this difficult decision easily. After careful examination of various scenarios and options, it became clear that there is no scenario in which the Fairview campus is sustainable, and a transformative approach is needed immediately to achieve financial sustainability and operational effectiveness for NWP,” Miller adds.

School officials say the student demand for programs in the region is primarily focused on Grande Prairie itself or outside the region entirely, with the majority of apprenticeship students attending programs at the Fairview Campus coming from areas closer to Grande Prairie, where the main campus is located.

Miller says the known student demand patterns, along with more than $100 million in maintenance required at the campus, long-term sustainability would have been a major challenge

“NWP’s analysis also shows that several programs at Fairview have high delivery costs, low enrolment, and are no longer aligned with evolving labour market needs. Despite several changes to the organizational structure of the campus over the years aimed at reducing overhead costs, it is impossible to continue operations without affecting our broader institutional priorities,” she adds.

The Fairview campus will operate as usual for the remainder of the 2025-2026 school year, including apprenticeship programs scheduled to run from January to July 2026. After that, select Fairview-based programs will be moved to Grande Prairie for Fall 2026l; current students will receive additional program-specific information in the coming weeks.

Halloween safety should remain top priority: Grande Prairie RCMP

Thomas Robertson
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Halloween safety should remain top priority: Grande Prairie RCMP

With little ghouls and goblins expected to hit the streets Friday night, Mounties in Grande Prairie say Halloween safety should be a high priority for both drivers and pedestrians.  .

During this time of year, the nights are getting darker and the roads could possibly be not ideal, this is why it is important for both you and trick-or-treaters to stay safe.

RCMP Public Information Officer Mathew Howell says that there is many ways to stay safe while trick-or-treating during the night.

“Always make sure that your costume is bright and visible, or at least have some visibility strips on your costume so that drivers and others around can see you. Stick to sidewalks and well lit areas avoid zig-zagging across the streets, never enter someone’s home or vehicle, and always try to travel with a group or with a guardian.”

Howell added that even though many houses may be participating in handing-out candy, to make sure you aren’t walking up to every house on the block.

“If you see a house with no lights on, or any decorations don’t go up to the house.”

If you have perhaps out grown the door-to-door fun, and plan on attending any parties, safety should still never be ruled out, says Howell.

“Make sure someone always knows where you are, if you are going to a party it is good to have a parent or someone you trust to know where you are.”

If you do plan on doing any of the Halloween activities, make sure you have an adult check your candy, and of course never drink and drive.

Avian Influenza confirmed in some birds in Grande Prairie

Thomas Robertson
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Avian Influenza confirmed in some birds in Grande Prairie

The City of Grande Prairie is reminding residents that avian influenza, also known as bird flu has reached some wild birds in the city.

Even though there is little risk to both people and pets, it’s always important to keep your self safe. The city says if you see a dead or sick bird to not handle it, call 311 and report the bird so city staff can safely collect it, and keep pets away from affected birds or where an area a bird has died.

The city and it’s staff are coordinating with Alberta Fish and Wildlife and Alberta Health Services, to see what the next steps could look like.

For more information on the disease, you can check out the Alberta Government’s website.

School zones in Grande Prairie are back in effect

Thomas Robertson
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School zones in Grande Prairie are back in effect

With the students back in the classroom, school zones around the city are back in effect.

While in a school zone it is against the law to go above 30 km/h, school zones remain in effect during school days from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Even outside of the school zones time’s, it is always good to be careful of your surroundings when passing a school during any time of year.

Coun. Bressey set to run for President of ABMunis

Thomas Robertson
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Coun. Bressey set to run for President of ABMunis

Grande Prairie City Councillor Dylan Bressey has announced that he will be running for President of Alberta Municipalities in November.

The group is an association that is owned by different towns, cities, villages across Alberta, the group presents advocacy on their behalf to help give them different resources for their councillors and senior administrators.

The current President is Tyler Gandam, who can no longer sit on the association because he recently got voted out in the Wetaskiwin Municipal Election.

Bressey is currently the Vice President for the group, because of this he knows the impact that this group has for Grande Prairie, he explains why this association is so important.

“Alberta Municipalities is tremendously important to the city, it helps us advance our advocacy priorities, it helps us get newer councillors up to speed, and it also sells electricity, employee benefits, and insurance to the city, which we need for our day to day operations.”

Bressey believes that he is a good fit for the role, because he has spent so much time all across Alberta.

“We need a president who has experience, in both their local community and also has experience visiting towns and villages and cities across the province. To understand their needs, and also one who understands the organisation of Alberta municipalities, not just advocacy but business lines of service, and I am that president who has deep experience and is ready to equip the next board to serve our members in even more powerful ways.”

The position will be voted by different Mayors and Councillors from across the province, when the group meets in Calgary during November.

 

New Grande Prairie council sworn in

Thomas Robertson
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New Grande Prairie council sworn in

The City of Grande Prairie’s newly elected council got sworn in on Monday, with two first timers getting their first taste of council live in the Swan City.

Mayor Jackie Clayton helped lead proceedings with an address as part of the special meeting of council. Clayton was joined by incumbents Wade Pilat, Chris Thiessen, Grant Berg, Kevin O’Toole, Mike O’Connor, Dylan Bressey.

Grande Prairie City Council 2025-2029/photo taken by Thomas Robertson 2dayfm staff

Newcomers Len Auger and Jena Flach took part in the ceremony for the first, and Auger says that during this term he hopes that council can bring down taxes.

“I think every candidate saw and heard that taxes are a big issue in the City of Grande Prairie, taxes are going up every year and I think we need to do something about that.”

Flach says that these next four years are going to be exciting, and hopes to see more communication from council to the public.

“We’ve got a really good council, and I’m excited for the next four years, I think we’re going to do a lot of good things. I would like to improve communication and education as far as what council does, the ways people can get involved.”

 

Grande Prairie students, teachers returning to classroom Wednesday

Thomas Robertson
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Grande Prairie students, teachers returning to classroom Wednesday

Students and teachers across Grande Prairie will be back in the classroom on Wednesday.

This follows the tabling of Bill 2, which enacted the notwithstanding clause, will see teachers return to the classroom, with a contract that includes a 12 per cent salary increase over four years, additional market adjustments of up to 17 per cent for what Horner says will be 95 per cent of teachers, and the hiring of an additional 3,000 teachers and 1,500 educational assistants.

When put to a vote back in September, 89.5 per cent of workers rejected the offer that is part of the bill.

Peace Wapiti Public School Division Superintendent of Schools Sean O’Shea said in a statement that they appreciate the the efforts of families to organize support for their children during the disruption. He adds they’re grateful for the efforts of non-instructional staff to prepare schools for the return of students and teachers, and for their shared commitment to public education.

“For the last three weeks, our priority work has been disrupted and the challenge of that has been felt by everyone in our system,” he says.

“Despite the return to school being an act of legislation, the commitment PWPSD staff share to see our students succeed remains the focus of our work and we all look forward to welcoming students and staff back to class”

Both the Grande Prairie Public School Division, and the Grande Prairie and District Catholic Schools Division have also confirmed that students and teachers will indeed be back on Wednesday.

Reeve, Deputy Reeve elected in County

My Grande Prairie Now Staff
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Reeve, Deputy Reeve elected in County

County of Grande Prairie Council elected Division 1 Councillor Amanda McDonald as Reeve and Division 9 Councillor Bob Chrenek as Deputy Reeve as part of its annual organization meeting on Monday.

McDonald, who was initially elected as councillor for Division 1 in 2021 says she is deeply honoured to be chosen by fellow councillors to serve in the role.

“They have expressed their confidence in me, and I will work diligently and collaboratively with them on behalf of the residents we represent.”

Bob Chrenek being sworn in as County of Grande Prairie Deputy Reeve on Oct 27th, 2025. (Supplied, County of Grande Prairie.
Bob Chrenek being sworn in as County of Grande Prairie Deputy Reeve on Oct 27th, 2025. (Supplied, County of Grande Prairie.

Deputy Reeve Chrenek was first elected to Council in 2021, and says he is eager to join forces with the new members of council in advancing the interests of the County, and strengthening what is working well to help move forward strategic priorities forward.

McDonald replaces former Reeve Bob Marshall, who announced his retirement after 12 years of service ahead of the Municipal Election in October.

Johnathan Clarkson leaving Nitehawk after nearly two decades

Thomas Robertson
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Johnathan Clarkson leaving Nitehawk after nearly two decades

Johnathan Clarkson will be stepping down as the General Manager after nearly 20 years with Nitehawk Year-Round Adventure Park.

Clarkson had a number of different impacts that he towards the park during his time, such as leading the team through the COVID-19 pandemic, championing the installation of the new Summit T-Bar, leading the team in different community events, just to name a few.

Clarkson says that over his near 20 years with the company, Nitehawk has been more than just a job for him.

“Nitehawk has truly been more than just a job for me, It’s been a community, a family, and a place where I’ve grown both personally and professionally. What I’ve loved most is that Nitehawk is community-owned and driven by people who genuinely care about creating outdoor opportunities for others. I’ve been lucky to work alongside an incredible team, passionate volunteers, and supportive partners who share that same vision. Watching kids learn to ski, families laugh together on the hill, and our staff grow into leaders has been incredibly rewarding. Through challenges and triumphs alike, this community has always shown resilience and heart, and I’ll carry that spirit with me wherever I go.”

Nitehawk Board President Aaron Lazaruk says that his impact towards the company is greatly appreciated.

“His passion for Nitehawk and his belief in what it represents for our region have been unmatched. While we are sad to see him go, we are deeply appreciative of his commitment to ensuring Nitehawk’s continued success during this transition. We wish him all the best as he embarks on this next chapter.”

Clarkson will serve his last day as the General Manager on January 4th, 2026.

 

NWP hands out annual Community & Alumni Awards

Thomas Robertson
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NWP hands out annual Community & Alumni Awards

Three people have been recognized for their work in the community or the classroom, as part of the 38th Northwestern Polytechnic’s Presidents Ball earlier this month.

Sheila Moerkoert won the Indigenous Community Impact Award for her leadership towards student support, cultural advocacy, and youth outreach. Moerkoert, a Métis woman from the Northwest Territories, has helped coordinate events around the Peace Region such as the Spirit Seekers Youth Conference and Oskayak Summit.

Kim Gravengard took home the Alumni Leadership Award, because of her leadership in sport, education, and community development throughout the Peace Region. She is a former student athlete for the school, and is a coach in the community currently.

Warren Murray won the Board of Governors Award of Honour, for his lifetime commitment towards mentorship, community service, and the advancement of skilled trades, Murray is a business owner, and has made a made a lasting impact on Northwestern Polytechnic and the region.

President and CEO of Northwestern Polytechnic Vanessa Sheane says these winners impacts do not go unnoticed.

“This year’s recipients remind us of the powerful impact that education and service can have across generations, their stories are inspiring examples of leadership in action – grounded in mentorship, advocacy, and a deep commitment to community.”

Nominations for next years Community & Alumni Awards are now open.

Sargent Family Kidney Care Centre now open in Grande Prairie

Thomas Robertson
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Sargent Family Kidney Care Centre now open in Grande Prairie

The new Sargent Family Kidney Care Centre in Grande Prairie is now open.

The ribbon cutting took place on Friday, October 24th. To build this new centre, a $3.9 million investment was made by Government of Alberta, with $1.5 million of that coming from the local Sargent family.

The care centre is in the ex Cancer Clinic area in the QEII Ambulatory Care Centre. This centre will include a multitude of different services to locals who may need it, by improving care and access, new spaces for hemodialysis and home peritoneal dialysis. The revamped area also included rooms where patients can learn to do some treatments from their own home.

dialysis hospital chair/photo taken by Thomas Robertson 2Dayfm

The hemodialysis unit has expanded from five to six stations, Andrew Kwan who is a patient care manager for Alberta Kidney Care North, says that this additional seat will go a long way.

“We’ve expanded an additional chair, so we can serve an additional nine patients per week, that is a really big add for our area.”

Even though the ribbon cutting was just recently, patients have began using this area since late August, since this time they have enrolled an additional 32 patients, completely clearing the waitlist that they had previously.

Grande Prairie-Wapiti MLA Ron Wiebe says a service like this one will help reduce travel so locals can get the help they need.

“It’s always exciting when we get services in our rural areas that are closer to home for our patients, it’s always good when patients don’t have to travel to get the services that they need and deserve.”

Local football team seeking equipment donations after shed fire

Thomas Robertson
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Local football team seeking equipment donations after shed fire

A local football team is seeking equipment donations after their inventory shed caught on fire.

On the morning of Sunday, October 19th, the West County Football Association were a victim of a shed fire, during the incident roughly $120,000 of equipment was destroyed. This includes items that dress the players from their helmet to their cleats, not only did they lose player apparel but they also lost many items that players would use for practice and items for gameday, and their AED machine.

President of the club Erin Schroeder says that they have a lot of ground to cover before the pewee season starts in the Spring.

“It’s heartbreaking, we have nothing for the peewees.”

The club has been in contact with the Town of Wembley to address the situation and to see what the next steps are towards receiving funding.

A GoFundMe has been started in the meantime.

If you would like to lend a helping hand, or have extra gear or equipment lying around, you can checkout their Facebook page for updates, or email [email protected].

 

Help keep GPRH newborns warm with blanket donations

Thomas Robertson
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Help keep GPRH newborns warm with blanket donations

If you are looking for a knitting project this fall or just looking to spread a little warmth for the littlest Grande Prairie residents, the Grande Prairie Regional Hospital is in need for blankets in the NICU.

The blankets must be new with the tags still attached, or handmade with new materials.

GPRHF Director of Operations Brittney Kelsey says these blankets are very important in order to keep the babies warm.

“When you have tinny little newborns, they want to go home and be warm, you know everyone wants to be curled up and cozy, is a nice way to send them home with their families. Any new or knitted receiving blankets are welcomed to be dropped off at the foundation office.”

You can learn more about the donations, including where to drop items off on the Grande Prairie Regional Hospital Foundation website.

Barnyard Burner

Jesse Saville
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Barnyard Burner

Brought to you by 104.7 2Day FM

LogoFor the week of November 3rd to 7th keep an ear out for the Barnyard Burner on 2day FM. You’ll have chances to win the in the Morning with Ally B & in the Afternoon with Stephonya. Hear the barn animals attempt Karaoke, & if you can guess the song you could WIN a pair of tickets to the 2025 Barn Burner on November 22nd.

Prizing, Rules & Regulations
By entering the contest, you agree with our base contest rules & regulations.
Prizes: Four (4) Winners of the Campaign (the “Winners”) will be awarded 1 Pair of Barn Burner Tickets ($150) from 2day FM. Prize valued at $6000.00.

Official municipal election results from across the region

Thomas Robertson
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Official municipal election results from across the region

The Municipal Election results are now official for both the City of Grande Prairie and The County.

Jackie Clayton has officially been re-elected as Mayor of the City of Grande Prairie with 3,491 votes. The 8 councillors that will be sworn into council on Monday will be:

Leonard Auger (3,421 votes)

Grant Berg (4,966 votes)

Dylan Bressy (4,446 votes)

Jena Flach (3,460 votes)

Mike O’Connor (2,890 votes)

Kevin O’Toole (2,925 votes)

Wade Pilat (3,213 votes)

Chris Thiessen (2,887 votes)

A total of 9,568 residents cast their ballots in this year’s city’s municipal election.

In the County of Grande Prairie, Amanda Frayn acclaimed Division 1, and Karen Rosvold acclaimed Division 8.

Kurt Balderston won Division 2 with 493 votes,

Terri Beaupre won Division 3 with 387 votes,

Marty Tissington won Division 4 with 388 votes,

Brian Lieverse won Division 5 with 289 votes,

Brian Grant won Division 6 with 154 votes,

Brian Peterson won Division 7 with 271 votes,

Bob Chrenek won Division 9 with 220 votes.

3,228 County residents cast their ballots in the County’s election.

GP Storm Tighty-Whitey toss set for Friday night

Thomas Robertson
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GP Storm Tighty-Whitey toss set for Friday night

Tighty-Whitey toss is set to take place during the Grande Prairie Storm game tonight.

The toss works as the same idea as the teddy bear toss, when the Storm scores their first goal you would throw a teddy bear, but instead you will throw socks and underwear.

The drive is hosted by the Rotary Clubs of Grande Prairie and is aimed to get donations of underwear and socks for the homeless and the less-fortunate in the community.

The Storm will be hosting the Bonnyville Pontiacs, puck-drop is slated for 7:00 p.m.

Business community celebrates regional standouts

Thomas Robertson
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Business community celebrates regional standouts

The Grande Prairie & District Chamber of Commerce celebrated the successes of businesses throughout the region on Thursday as they handed out their Awards of Distinction.

Nominated by the public, a total of eight businesses walked out with an award, including Small Business of the Year with 10 or More Employees, The Headroom and Small Business of the Year with 10 or Fewer Employees, 92 Bev Co.

Stepping Stones Day Day was recognized as the Legacy Business award recipient, and HH Farmstore won the Young Entrepreneur award.

Other award winners include M3M Marketing for Diversity and Inclusion, Northwestern Alberta Foundation was honoured with the Greatest Impact award. Beauty By Claudz took home the Emerging Business award, Bear Creek Funeral Home was honoured for Marketing, and nine10 Inc walked away with the Leading Edge award.

Grande Prairie & District Chamber of Commerce CEO Wendy Thomas says the night provides a wonderful opportunity to celebrate those in the community, and to cement a key she believes is vital to the continued success of the Peace Country; solid relationships.

“I can open my phone and call anybody and they’re there in a minute to help and assist and it doesn’t matter if you’re from downtown, city proper or regional, we are all here for the same reason,” Thomas says.

“It’s not a cliche, it’s what we do here, it’s what we do for each other. It is what we do to send out the message provincially and nationally that we are someone you do business with.”

Officials say winners were selected via committee vote which scored each category based on criteria for each award.

Valleyview RCMP arrest an individual who was recently released pending trial

Thomas Robertson
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Valleyview RCMP arrest an individual who was recently released pending trial

Valleyview RCMP arrested and laid multiple weapon charges on a individual who was already arrested earlier in the month involving a separate incident.

On Monday, October 20th. Valleyview Mounties were informed about a person recently let go from police custody and is currently pending trail, with current conditions that they could not posses a firearm.

In the separate incident, the suspect then allegedly used a firearm to assault the complainant, police then investigated into the incident, which led to the arrest of the suspect.

With the recent arrest, the resident of Valleyview was charged with possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, assault with a weapon, possession of firearm while prohibited, Failure to comply with order, and resisting arrest.

The suspect was and charged in early October for possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking, failure to comply with court order, and an additional 15 offences.

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