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School Zones go into effect Thursday in Grande Prairie

Kass Patterson
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School Zones go into effect Thursday in Grande Prairie

School Zones will be back in effect in Grande Prairie as of Thursday, with summer coming to an end and the new school year beginning. 

According to Grande Prairie Enforcement Services officials, along with the speed reduction in school zones, drivers should also anticipate busy crosswalks as students return to class. 

Across Grande Prairie, the maximum speed limit in school zones is 30 kilometres an hour and will be in effect from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday. As well, playground zones are enforced from 7:30 a.m. until one hour after sunset, with the maximum speed limit in these areas also being 30 kilometres an hour. 

Mayor Jackie Clayton says while the back-to-school season is an exciting time of the year, this is an important reminder to help ensure it is a safe and positive experience for students, teachers and parents. 

“The City thanks everyone for exercising extra caution as school zones come back into effect so we can keep our roads and community safe,” Clayton says. 

Officials are advising drivers to stay alert in areas where pedestrians may suddenly appear, including intersections and crosswalks, keep an eye out for school safety patrollers and follow their directions.  Other pieces of safety advice include being extra cautious when backing out of driveways and parking stalls, never passing another moving vehicle within a school or playground zone during active hours and watching for students riding bicycles and other methods of transportation.

Trio charged for vehicle theft

Kass Patterson
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Trio charged for vehicle theft

Three people are facing charges for vehicle theft following an incident last week. 

According to Grande Prairie RCMP, officers responded to a collision between an allegedely stolen vehicle and another vehicle in a rural area east of the city. Police allege that following the collision, the suspects pulled a knife on the other driver and stole their vehicle. Police located the vehicle in the city not long after and are reported to have seen the trio fleeing from the scene. 

Police are said to have arrested two of the suspects after a short foot chase, and following further investigation, identified and arrested the third suspect the following day. 

A 34-year-old and a 28-year-old man, along with a 21-year-old woman, are facing a plethora of charges, including robbery, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle and assault with a weapon.  

The two men were remanded into custody and the woman was released. All three are scheduled to appear in court next month. 

Pair of Grande Prairie spray parks operating on extended hours to beat the heat

Kass Patterson
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Pair of Grande Prairie spray parks operating on extended hours to beat the heat

The city has extended the hours of the Muskoseepi Park and Lions Park spray parks to help people cool off from the heat. 

Earlier this week, Environment Canada advised that the daytime highs will be between 29 and 33 degrees Celsius over the next several days, with overnight lows dropping between 9 and 13 degrees Celsius.  According to the advisory, there is a concern that the effects of the heat could build up over time. 

To help beat the heat, the City of Grande Prairie is extending the hours at the two spray parks from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. The extended hours will remain in place until further notice. 

Grande Prairie Public Library launching new library card designs

Kass Patterson
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Grande Prairie Public Library launching new library card designs

Grande Prairie Public Library users will have the opportunity to change up their library card with the release of four new library card designs. 

The new cards are said to be a playful twist on the traditional card, with designs including a possum, Bigfoot, a dinosaur, and a classic black card. Users still have the option to get the library’s original blue card as well. Children’s Programmer for Outreach and Events Emily Rempel used their art background to bring the cards to life. 

Director of the Grande Prairie Public Library, Hailey McCullough, says the four designs reflect the spirit of what the library is about: curiosity, imagination, and fun. 

“We wanted to give our community something a little unexpected — something they’ll be excited to show off,” McCullough says. “Our new cards are a small way to say: the library is yours, and so is the adventure. We hope they inspire a whole new generation of readers and explorers.”

As of August 29th, the new cards will be available for new members to choose from when they sign up, and existing members will be able to exchange their current card for one of the new designs at no charge until the end of the year. 

Mobile mammography trailer to provide testing in Hyth in September

Kass Patterson
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Mobile mammography trailer to provide testing in Hyth in September

The mobile mammography trailer will be in Hythe in September.

The mobile clinic is part of Primary Care Alberta’s Screen Test program and will be at the Hythe Legion from September 23rd to 27th. Cancer screening will be offered to women aged 45 to 74 years-old.

According to health officials, those in this age group are most at risk for developing breast cancer, and the x-ray of the breast, known as a mammogram, is a proven way to catch it early on.

” Screening mammograms are the best way to find breast cancer early when treatment may work better.”

Appointments can be booked by calling 1-800-667-0604. More information can be found on the Screening for Life website.

American Industrial Partners set to purchase local paper mill

Kass Patterson
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American Industrial Partners set to purchase local paper mill

The paper mill in Grande Prairie is set to have new owners by the end of the year.

In a statement, President and Mill Manager Lyman Rorem says that following a strategic review of Global Cellulose Fibres by International Paper, they now have an agreement to be purchased by American Industrial Partners.

Rorem’s statement reads, “AIP expressed strong confidence in GCF’s future, highlighting that our business is ‘well-positioned for future growth, supported by its large and sustainable wood basket, durable end markets, industry-leading quality and innovation, long-term customer relationships, deeply knowledgeable employees, and well-invested facilities.” 

Rorem adds that support from the acquisition will help accelerate innovation and improve operations in the mill. Even with the change in ownership, the company will continue to have a strong commitment to the community. 

“Our operations, workforce, and local partnerships will continue, and we will remain an active contributor to the well-being and economic vitality of Grande Prairie,” Rorem says. “Over the years, we have valued our partnerships with local leaders, organizations, and residents. Whether it’s through job creation, charitable contributions, or volunteer engagement, our mill has been deeply connected to this community – and that will not change.”

The deal between the two companies is expected to close by the end of the year. 

City set to celebrate Alberta’s 120th anniversary

Kass Patterson
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City set to celebrate Alberta’s 120th anniversary

To celebrate the province’s 120th anniversary, the City of Grande Prairie is offering free access to several recreation facilities in the city. 

To mark Alberta Day on August 30th, the city is offering free access to Eastlink Centre, Keyera Place and Design Works Centre. 

According to Mayor Jackie Clayton, this is a way to celebrate Alberta along with the community. 

“Alberta Day is a chance to come together as a community, enjoy the activities that make Grande Prairie unique and showcase the culture, sport, tourism and spirit that connect us to our province’s story,” Clayton says. 

As well, the city will be hosting a public skate with the Grande Prairie Storm at Bonnetts Energy Centre from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. 

More information can be found on the city’s website. 

Grande Prairie RCMP search for missing 16-year-old

My Grande Prairie Now Staff
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Grande Prairie RCMP search for missing 16-year-old

The Grande Prairie RCMP is asking for the public’s help in tracking down a missing 16-year-old.

Police say 16-year-old Logan Marshall was last seen on August 18th in Grande Prairie, and police are concerned for his well being. Marshall is 5’8″ tall, weighs 135 pounds and is known to frequent Muskoseepi Park.

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Logan Marshall is urged to contact the Grande Prairie RCMP Detachment at 780-830-5701

Minor disruption expected as city crews crack on with sealing work

My Grande Prairie Now Staff
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Minor disruption expected as city crews crack on with sealing work

You will see crews in and around the city for the next few days as road upgrades are being wrapped up in numerous areas.

The city says workers will be out as they look to complete asphalt crack sealing, which helps preserve pavement by preventing moisture from entering and causing further damage

While work is underway, single lane alternating traffic will be in place, which should only cause minimal delays.

However, transit routes may see short disruptions, but significant impacts are not expected. The work will be done between 7 a.m.and 5 p.m. and no parking signs will be posted in advance where crews are scheduled to work.

Measles exposure warning issued in Fairview

My GP Now
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Measles exposure warning issued in Fairview

Residents in Fairview are being advised of potential exposure to measles.

Alberta Health Services says you may have been exposed to the the virus if you were at the Fairview Health Complex Emergency Department from 5:50 p.m. on August 25th to 1:20 a.m. August 16th.

AHS says anyone who was at that location between those times, who was born in or after 1970 and has less than two documented doses of the measles vaccine, is at risk of developing the illness. Officials advise monitoring for symptoms and staying home if any develop.

Symptoms of measles include a fever, cough, runny nose and/or red eyes, as well as a rash that shows up three to seven days after the fever starts. The rash will usually start behind the ears and on the face, then spread down to the body and to the arms and legs. The rash appears red and blotchy on lighter skin tones and on darker skin tones, can appear purple or darker than the skin around it, and may be difficult to see.

Experience Grande Prairie expected to be a Trew-ly exciting event

Kass Patterson
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Experience Grande Prairie expected to be a Trew-ly exciting event

At the end of August, the city is set to host its signature event in City Centre. 

The fourth annual Experience Grande Prairie event will be held on August 29th and is set to include live music, local food vendors, family activities, and community showcases.

Mayor Jackie Clayton says the event is meant to celebrate who Grande Prairie is as a community. 

“It’s the kind of night that fills our streets with laughter, music and connection, and leaves you feeling proud to be part of this city. Showcasing incredible Canadian talent makes it even more memorable and helps define Grande Prairie and the community we are building together,” Clayton says. 

The event will run from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. downtown at 101st Avenue and 101st Street. It includes a wide variety of activities and entertainment, including face painting, balloon animals, oversized lawn games and various food vendors. There will also be community booths, which the city is inviting community groups and organizations to take part in. 

The rock group the Trews will headline the event, with other musical acts including the Markevich Youth Band, McKindred, Hey! Driver and Brasstactics. 

More information on the annual event can be found here. 

Construction on multisport dome to start in September

My Grande Prairie Now Staff
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Construction on multisport dome to start in September

Ground has been broken on the new year-round soccer and athletics facility in Trader Ridge.

The soon-to-be-built 135,000 sq. ft. air-supported dome will offer a full-size FIFA regulation field with flexible configurations to support soccer, football, rugby, and track & field sports.

Grande Prairie Mayor Jackie Clayton said the hope is the facility will act as a year-round hub for activity, a driver of sport tourism, and a key investment in the region’s sporting future.

“It shows our commitment to quality of life and cements Grande Prairie’s role as a leader in sport tourism and regional development,” Clayton added.

The County of Grande Prairie is supporting the development of the project, with as much as $2.8 million earmarked towards the actual construction cost. County Reeve Bob Marshall says the facility represents a significant investment in shared community recreation facilities.

“Through our cost sharing agreement with the City, the County is supporting projects that contribute to broader access while continuing to focus on the long-term needs of our own communities. We look forward to seeing how the Multisport Dome serves users across the region once complete,” Marshall said.

Discussion around the proposed facility, which is a replacement for the Leisure Centre Indoor field, started in 2023 when Swan City FC Soccer Association made the case to council that more space was needed to help grow the game in the region.

Construction on the facility is expected to begin in September and be wrapped up by July 2026.

Manslaughter charges laid in connection to Peace River shooting death

My Grande Prairie Now Staff
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Manslaughter charges laid in connection to Peace River shooting death

Manslaughter charges have been laid in connection to the shooting death a a McLennan man.

Peace River RCMP say they responded to a complaint of an individual having been shot in the downtown area of Peace River around 3 a.m. August 12th. Police say that while the individual was conscious at the time of arrival and was taken to the hospital, he succumbed to the injuries the following day.

Subsequently, a 25-year-old from Peace River is facing numerous charges, including manslaughter and assault with a weapon.

Grande Prairie physician sanctioned for inadequate record keeping by CPSA

Kass Patterson
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Grande Prairie physician sanctioned for inadequate record keeping by CPSA

A general physician from Grande Prairie has been sanctioned after being found guilty of keeping inadequate patient records by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta.

Dr. Obaid Afridi, will receive a reprimand, is required to pay a fine totalling $6,000, and is responsible to pay for a portion of the cost of the investigation and hearing which is equivalent to $5,000

In 2022 Dr. Afridi faced three counts of unprofessional conduct, including displaying a lack of skill or judgement when treating a patient, creating inadequate patient records and incorrectly billing Alberta Health Services. According to the decision report released from the CPSA in April 2023, the allegations are for a series of appointments with one patient which took place between May 2019 and May 2020.

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Grande Prairie business owner looks to fridge the gap for those in need

My Grande Prairie Now Staff
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Grande Prairie business owner looks to fridge the gap for those in need

Seeing a barber pole usually signals it’s time for a trim, but in Grande Prairie it has become a beacon of hope.

Outside Best Barber downtown, a full‑sized refrigerator is bolted to the sidewalk, offering an almost limitless supply of food, water and homemade treats to anyone who needs them. But owner Zekra Aboushah says the fridge is just the latest chapter of an idea that began in the winter months.

Aboushah says her desire to give a simple kindness to those in need became urgent after she saw someone eating snow off a bench because there were no other options. It was a heartbreaking moment she hopes to prevent whenever possible.

“It would be a good idea to put something outside for them so they don’t have to come in and ask for it,” she said.

What started as individual handouts grew into a cooler—an idea friends discouraged, fearing it might be stolen. When that did happen, it only strengthened Aboushah’s resolve.

The fridge in front of Best Barber. (MyGrandePrairieNow.com)

 

“I guess everybody in town knows it’s been stolen. I thought, that’s not going to stop me. I’m going to buy a bigger fridge. When I see how much people use it—how they just take what they need, not everything—and some of them come and thank the guys for doing this, it just makes me want to keep going,” she said.

Aboushah plans to continue adding items to the collection area. She believes the initiative could spark “a new trend” in helping others across Grande Prairie.

“I am hoping the fridge will be like the little libraries soon,” she said. “That you’ll see a fridge outside to help others. It’s not just in this area—there are other neighbourhoods where people are struggling. So if we can help them, why not? If you have something you’re not using, put it in the fridge so it can be used.”

City downgrades fire restriction to fire advisory

My Grande Prairie Now Staff
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City downgrades fire restriction to fire advisory

Some cooler weather and the uptick in recent rain has allowed the city to downgrade a long standing fire restriction down to an advisory.

The improved but still dry conditions mean things like residential firepits, charcoal briquette barbecues, and qood pellet smokers and barbecues are now back on the allowed list. However, open burning and burn barrels, fire pits without screens and fireworks without written authority are still prohibited.

City of Grande Prairie Fire Marshal Chris Renyk says fires can still start easily and spread fast, especially with elevated wind speeds over 15 km/h. He suggests keeping safety practices top of mind, even with the downgraded risk.

“Wind over 15 km/h can send embers flying into nearby yards or dry grass, starting fires before anyone even notices. Always check the wind before you burn, and don’t light anything if it’s too breezy

The fire advisory will remain in effect until conditions improve.

Celebrating culture this Alberta Day in the county

Kass Patterson
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Celebrating culture this Alberta Day in the county

Next month, the county, along with a local culture society, will be co-hosting an event to celebrate the province’s founding. 

According to County of Grande Prairie officials, they will be co-hosting a family-friendly Alberta Day event with the Wembley & District Arts, Culture & Historical Society. The September 1st event will be held at the Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum and Wembley & District Arts, Culture & Historical Society. 

At the Philip J. Currie Dinosaur Museum, there will be free admission and bonebed tours, along with face painting, outdoor mini golf and crafts. At the Wembley & District Arts, Culture & Historical Society, there will be a show and shine event, a free barbecue lunch, indigenous craft workshops, along with live music, games, and wagon rides. There will also be a market that will highlight local growers, makers, and bakers. 

Reeve Bob Marshall says Alberta Day is a day to come together as a community, and this partnership is an opportunity to do just that, to enjoy entertainment, and reflect on what makes not just the province but the region a special place to live. 

“Whether you’re here for the music, the history, or just a fun day out with the family, Alberta Day is a chance to celebrate our shared heritage and the people who shape it,” Marshall says. 

The event will take place on September 1st from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

KidSport expanding reach into entire Peace Country

My GP Now
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KidSport expanding reach into entire Peace Country

KidSport is set to serve a lot more than just the Grande Prairie area, as KidSport Peace Country is officially up and running.

Officials with the non-profit say the name change reflects the organization’s expanded service area across Northwestern Alberta, while maintaining its core mission to remove financial barriers to sport so that all kids can participate.

Regional Manager for KidSport Alberta Karna Germsheid says families across the entire Peace Country, expanding north to the NWT Border, east to Valleyview, south to Grovedale, and west to the border with British Columbia can now apply for KidSport funding.

“This is an exciting step for KidSport. “Expanding our boundaries means we can help even more kids across Peace Country access the benefits of sport — building confidence, friendships, and healthy habits for life,” Germsheid adds.

You can learn information and find links to funding requests on the new KidSport Peace Country website.
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Election plans ramping up in Grande Prairie

Kass Patterson
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Election plans ramping up in Grande Prairie

The municipal election is less than 100 days away, and election officials are working on plans to meet new regulations put in place by the provincial government. 

Election Returning Officer Kim Pinnock says some of these changes made to the Local Authorities Elections Act include eliminating the electronic tabulators from counting ballots, meaning that all votes will need to be counted by hand. Pinnok says that work is being done by city administration to analyze how many ballots have been cast in the past to predict how many ballots may be cast in the upcoming election. 

“It is really going to depend on our voter turnout, so we’re working on some estimates right now to figure out how long we think it’s going to take us, depending on the total number of electors that come out and when we’d be able to have those results ready for the community,” Pinnok says. 

She says results will likely not be available before midnight, but depending on the voter turnout, they could be available as early as 1 a.m. or 2 a.m.

Another change that comes from the new regulations is the mandatory permanent elector register, which previously was optional for municipalities. 

“Elections Alberta has provided us an initial list of eligible electors, and we’re using that to further develop our municipal permanent register,” Pinnock says. “There are a few things that residents can do to prepare [for the election], the first thing would be to register in advance and ensure that you are on the permanent elector register, so you can go to voterlink.ca and we’re asking residents to go on and register before August 15th to ensure that they’re on there.”

Those who are not able to register ahead of time will still be able to vote, Pinnock says, but they will need to register at the voting site and have all the required identification. 

Included in the work to prepare for the October election, the Returning Officer says they are working on recruiting election workers. 

“We are going to need a significant amount of workers to help support us over our advanced vote dates and the election date.”

The fall municipal election is scheduled for Monday, October 20th, and the City of Grande Prairie has advanced voting scheduled for the Thursday, Friday, and Saturday in the two weeks before election day. 

More information about the City of Grande Prairie municipal election can be found here. 

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