Medicine Hat News
FCM sees new energy in Ottawa following pre-budget advocacy trip
There’s a new “Team Canada approach” at the federal level, says FCM rural chair Robin Kurpjuweit following his recent advocacy days trip. Kurpjuweit, who is also a Cypress Country Councillor, says these trips are common, with one in the fall and one...
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Weather, time of day factors in probe of Wainwright fire
The decision to hold a live-fire training exercise at Canadian Forces Base Wainwright during a high-risk fire month will be part of the investigation into the fire that killed four soldiers and injured dozens. Military officials said the grass fire...
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First Nations say Elections Alberta unprepared for referendum turnout
First Nations in Alberta are celebrating the win for the proCanada side in Monday’s referendum — but they’re also raising concerns about a shortage of ballots in their communities despite large, public efforts to increase voter turnout. About three in...
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Urban, rural voters in southern Alberta somewhat divided
Early voting tallies show strong participation across southern Alberta in Monday’s 10-question provincial referendum. Solid margins favoured the option to remain in Canada in Lethbridge constituencies and Medicine Hat, while TaberWarner recorded...
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Referendum results delayed by late polling stations
As of press time... Alberta’s separation referendum went into overtime Monday night. Elections Alberta announced more than 100 locations were staying open past the scheduled 8 p.m. closing time. Those stations, for various reasons, opened late on...
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Carney wraps pro-Canada tour in hometown
Prime Minister Mark Carney wrapped up his two-day, proCanada barnstorming tour of Alberta by rallying with thousands of supporters in his hometown on Friday night. “Alberta’s my home,” Carney said as thousands erupted in cheers in a party-like...
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Top 7 over 70 honours seniors making an impact
The Top 7 Over 70 Gala on Wednesday celebrated members of the community, proving there is no expiry date on making an impact. Medalta hosted guests and dignitaries from across southeastern Alberta to recognize and get to know recipients of the 2026...
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Smith casts vote to stay in Canada, urges support for other nine questions
Premier Danielle Smith says she has officially marked her ballot in the provinces separation referendum — and it’s a vote for a united Canada. “We have seen great progress lately in addressing the unfair laws and policies that have hurt Alberta,”...
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‘Baby of the Year’ hopeful already a winner, parents say
Three-month-old Mehtab Singh Arora’s parents say he loves playing with balloons, swinging and giving cheeky smiles to the ladies — and by chance, could be named the 2026 Baby of the Year in a large-scale contest presented by actress Jessica...
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Magrath woman shatters own world record for planking
A southern Albertan woman beat her own world record for longest plank held by a woman, lasting a whopping five hours at the opening ceremonies of the Huntsman World Senior Games held in St. George, Utah on Oct. 6. DonnaJean Wilde, a retired teacher...
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Poilievre to campaign for Canadian unity in Alberta next week ahead of referendum
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre said Friday he will be in Alberta just days before the province’s referendum to deliver a speech on Canadian unity. The House of Commons will be on a break next week after MPs head back to their ridings for the...
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50-bed shelter proposed for S. Railway
The Mustard Seed has asked the City of Medicine Hat for permission to open a 50-bed emergency shelter and health services centre at 514 S. Railway St. The Calgary-based charity announced the proposed site. It filed a rezoning application and a...
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Nearly five dozen employers on hand at MHC Career Expo
The Medicine Hat College Career Expo brought both job seekers and students out to campus on Wednesday, for a chance to get a glimpse of their next steps. This year, which marks the 20th annual, welcomed 58 employers attending, says organizer and...
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Ranchmen revamp moves one step closer to fruition
An investor seeking to convert the iconic Ranchmen Motel into permanent affordable multi-unit housing is one step closer after approval to rezone from Regional Commercial Special Use into Neighbourhood Residential District by council Monday. The...
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Nenshi slams UCP referendum questions during visit
Alberta New Democratic Party Leader Naheed Nenshi targeted the provincial government during Saturday visits to Medicine Hat and Lethbridge, calling the upcoming referendum questions an “evil plot” designed to stoke division. An audience of 40...
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Despite ‘legitimate frustrations’ Poilievre touts united Canada ahead of referendum
The leader of the Conservative Party of Canada says he believes in a stronger province of Alberta within a united country, while visiting Medicine Hat on Thursday about two weeks before Albertans will hit polls Oct. 19. While speaking to approximately...
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Poilievre says CPC will push for diesel relief
Pierre Poilievre, leader of the Official Opposition and Conservative Party of Canada, announced plans for his party to table a new bill next week seeking fuel relief for Canadians while speaking at Medicine Hat College on Thursday. Poilievre says his...
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Hundreds gather for Truth, Reconciliation
More than 350 Hatters gathered outside Medicine Hat College on Wednesday to show solidarity while honouring residential school survivors through speeches, cultural teachings, drumming and a walk for truth and reconciliation. The annual gathering for...
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Developer shares concepts for silo-apartment complex at historic flour mill on Kipling Street
Plans for a proposed unique future redevelopment of the historic former Maple Leaf Flour Mill and silo site, which include circular-style living spaces built within the silos, were presented to residents during an open house Tuesday. The owner of the...
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Smith, Wright pat selves on back at town hall
Premier Danielle Smith and Cypress-Medicine Hat MLA Justin Wright highlighted regional economic development, health care investments and provincial policy initiatives during a public town hall in Medicine Hat on Saturday. The event brought together...
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Banner night honours Cubs’ banner season
The Medicine Hat Cubs did a little redecorating inside the Kinplex with an addition years in the waiting. The Cubs unveiled their 202526 HJHL championship banner Friday night ahead of the season opener against the High River Flyers. The banner,...
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Local RN’s virtual care bridging gaps in Alberta
Founded right in Medicine Hat, VirtuClinic and the new Digital Health Advisor aim toward a simple yet vital goal; a more accessible, sustainable health-care system for all, regardless of location. The founder of VirtuClinic, Matthew Jubelius, is a...
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Do Hatters want Prime now?
A logistics contractor working for online retail giant Amazon is seeking to establish a local package distribution and shipment facility that would operate out of the historic six-storey property that was once the Ogilvie Flour Mill complex on...
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Big tax decision as budget gap mounts
Members of the city’s financial department told council Monday an 8 per cent increase to property taxes in both 2027 and 2028 would be “required” in order to maintain a balanced budget as a municipal gap continues to grow. However, council, many of...
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Council moves forward with Riverside Corridor Enhancement project
City councillors unanimously voted in favour to move forward with the Riverside Corridor Enhancement Project design option that will maintain the existing road width throughout the corridor while adding seven curb extensions of “bump outs” at critical...
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Elections Act change restricts access to voter info until after referendum
The Alberta government made a series of regulatory changes Thursday through orders in council involving wildlife licensing, provincial parks and several government boards. But a quiet change to how electoral information is being distributed has...
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Separation could cost Alberta up to $170B: report
An independent panel says Alberta would face significant short-term economic costs if it separated from Canada, while the province’s long-term economic outlook would depend heavily on how negotiations with Canada and other countries unfolded. The...
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Sisters hold world record for combined age at 392
A quartet of sisters, mostly residing here in Medicine Hat, currently hold the world record for greatest combined age. Three of the sisters, 100-year-old Elsie Kirschenman, 98-year-old Viola Jassman and 90-year-old Idella Ehnisz currently live in...
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Co-founder Drew Barnes reveals new “Alberta Now” federal political party
Former Cypress-Medicine Hat MLA Drew Barnes has publicly announced he will be co-founding a new political party that would represent Alberta-focused interests in Ottawa while operating within Canada’s current system. Barnes made the announcement over...
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REDI officially opens six-unit affordable care home
A new stride in accessible housing, REDI Enterprises Society officially opened the doors Friday to Hampson House, which will provide affordable supported care for six Hatters. The space is named for Cathy Hampson, whose story was unfortunately a...
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Council to consider 2-year urban hens pilot project
City councillors will soon be debating whether residents will be allowed to raise urban hens in their backyards by adopting or declining a new two-pilot project designed by city staff after receiving mixed feedback from residents. The new draft pilot...
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Clark will send letter to Smith, others affirming support for local water strategy
Mayor Linnsie Clark will send a letter to Premier Danielle Smit and all other appropriate provincial and federal officials reaffirming council support for local water protection and the city’s 25-year action plan for longterm water security. The...
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Council moves forward with south-side aquatics facility
Councillors voted 8-1 in support of entering into negotiations to acquire land and continue the design process for a new outdoor aquatics facility on the city’s south side, as well as new sports fields in Brier Run. Coun. Cheryl Phaff voted against...
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Hundreds of workers gather for annual Labour Day BBQ
Local workers were treated to a free barbecue lunch on Monday held by volunteers from the Medicine Hat & District Labour Council, which served hundreds of free burgers and hot dogs despite the rainy weather. The annual barbecue is held to show...
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Two-tier health care underway in Alberta
Critics continue to say government is ignoring what citizens want Nearly 400 specialist physicians in Alberta have expressed interest in participating in the province’s new dual-practice health system, a move critics warn creates a two-tiered model...
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Referendum results will take time, Qs counted one at a time
Officials from Elections Alberta outlined operational details for the upcoming provincial referendum during a technical briefing Thursday, detailing a hand-count process that will extend at least into the early morning following the vote. Deputy chief...
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Quality family time
Austin and Linnea Weisgerber and seen walking with their daughter Rese and dog Wrigley along a pathway adjunct to Police Point Drive on Wednesday afternoon. Forecasters are calling for temperatures to cool into this weekend, with some more rain on the...
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Premier, education minister suggest province making progress in classrooms as students return to school
Premier Danielle Smith held a press conference Tuesday afternoon with Minister of Education and Childcare Demetrios Nicolaides to highlight education investments and initiatives heading into the 2026-27 school year. Alberta’s government welcomed...
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AFL report suggests separation would harm workers most
The Alberta Federation of Labour has released an economic report warning that provincial separation from Canada would severely harm working-class citizens, while accusing the provincial government and separatist groups of misdirecting public anger over...
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Indigenous gathering space brings cultural significance closer to home
Medicine Hat’s Indigenous community is now able to use an outdoor gathering space at Police Point Park for ceremonies, teachings, reflection and cultural connection after the ground was blessed Friday morning. The new gathering space and ceremonial...
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Alberta continues to profit off spiked oil
The province announced another quarterly surplus in its latest financial update. The economic update for the province’s 2026 Q1 shows a 2.3% real GDP growth, followed by strength in energy, exports and investment sectors. Impact from international...
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Beekeepers face trade turbulence after new tariffs take effect
Southern Alberta beekeepers are facing a wave of trade uncertainty after new U.S. tariffs came into effect over the weekend, leaving local producers to navigate potential shifts in the domestic market. The import duties, which target a wide range of...
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Ex-premiers join hands to keep Alberta in Canada
Two former political foes in Alberta are joining hands to try to keep the province from separating. And one of them says when it comes to Canada, it’s a nobrainer. “I’m always happy to put patriotism ahead of partisanship,” former premier Jason...
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City looks to support businesses seeking involvement with major regional projects
A biannual financial report that will be presented to council Sept. 8 shows during the first half of 2026 the city received 92 investment attraction inquiries and is involved in eight major projects totalling more than $4.4 billion and 270 new...
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Black Hatters release draft constitution for independency
Separatist leaders and federalists alike are panning the draft constitution assembled by Medicine Hat-based right-wing group the Black Hat Gang. The document released publicly this week by the separatist group the Alberta Prosperity Project was...
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Business boomed during Special Olympics
One business owner described the streets downtown as lively, friendly and reminiscent of the 80s last week as Medicine Hat welcomed the nation’s top Special Olympians to compete in the 2026 Canada Summer Games. Jake Knodel, owner of Station Coffee...
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Alberta gets extremely rare day without active August wildfire
For the first time in more than 40 years, Alberta marked an August day earlier this week with no active wildfires. For a stretch lasting a little more than 24 hours Tuesday, the province recorded a wildfire-free day in one of the hottest and driest...
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Cypress County advances plans for $65-million rec centre
Cypress County is moving forward with plans for a new recreation centre in Dunmore, with a global project budget of $65 million. Following a motion at Tuesday’s meeting, administration will now move forward with preparing a request for proposal for...
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Closing ceremonies wrap Special Olympics Summer Games, the ‘greatest show this city has ever seen’
A week of rain in Canada’s sunniest city showed the true meaning of shining bright through the Special Olympics Canada Summer Games. The 2026 Summer Games hosted in Medicine Hat came to a close Saturday evening with closing ceremonies at Co-op Place,...
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Calgary gymnast wins silver in Medicine Hat, carrying on family Olympic legacy
Zoe Bates won a silver medal Thursday in rhythmic gymnastics at the Special Olympics Canada Summer Games after finishing second in the rope event. The 42-year-old from Calgary is one of about 1,700 athletes competing at the Games. But she also carries...
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Every aspect of wellbeing covered with Healthy Athletes program
As part of their time at the 2026 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games, athletes have access to a wide variety of free health screenings. For the first time, that screening also includes getting a bra that fits. Healthy Athletes is a multidisciplinary...
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Unforgiving skies can’t dampen Special Olympic spirit
Canada’s sunniest city has hit the showers during the Special Olympics Canada Summer Games. The second full day of competition at the 2026 Summer Games was met with rain and sometimes downpour as athletes from across Canada competed in their...
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Special Olympics Canada Summer Games open
The event floor at Co-op Place was bright Tuesday with colours of 10 provinces and two territories shining together ahead of competing at the 2026 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games. The opening ceremonies Tuesday kicked off the Games hosted in...
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Flame of Hope arrives as Special Olympics open
The Flame of Hope will reach Medicine Hat today as the city opens the 2026 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games with help from a new law enforcement fundraiser. Officers will carry the flame from the Medicine Hat Police Service station to the Solar...
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New governor general coming to Medicine Hat
Louise Arbour to be first GG to attend Special Olympics Canada Games The Governor General of Canada, the Right Honourable Louise Arbour, will be travelling to Medicine Hat early next week to attend the 2026 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games. This...
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Suffield, region a major player for DND: McGuinty
Federal Minister of Defence David McGuinty says he is working to restore the BATUS tank training program, which ground to a halt in 2023 after decades of collaboration at CFB Suffield. McGuinty was in Alberta on Thursday for an itinerary that included...
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Premier calls out police force for anti-hate campaign
Premier Danielle Smith says police departments should be focused on monitoring drugs and violence, not “hurt feelings,” in a response to an Edmonton anti-hate speech campaign. The UCP government says it will be communicating to the province’s policing...
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Ottawa moves to list Alberta-backed West Coast pipeline as national interest project
The federal government is advancing the process to designate a proposed oil pipeline to the West Coast as a “national interest” project. Naming a project in the national interest under the Building Canada Act allows the government to fast-track...
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Brothers face off in Tennis Alberta Jr. tourney final
Mike Fentabil exacts revenge from last year with golden performance over younger Thomas A weekend of high-end youth tennis at the Medicine Hat Tennis Club came to an end on a local note. The two-day Tennis Alberta Jr. 3.5 star U12/U16 tournament held...
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Medicine Hat area leads province in primary care metrics; Minister Wright hopes to export local wins to the province
During an appearance in Medicine Hat last week, Minister of Primary and Preventative Health Services Justin Wright highlighted the Palliser Primary Care Network as an example of one of the highest performing primary care units in the country. It’s a...
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Lund files judicial review of coal petition rejection by Elections Alberta
Country singer Corb Lund’s advocacy group Water Not Coal is filing a judicial review of the Elections Alberta decision that deemed his citizen initiative petition was unsuccessful. Lund says the review is necessary to protect the integrity of...
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Vulcano honoured to hold Mavs’ games record
With one phone call in the spring of 2023, the Medicine Hat Mavericks found their games played leader. A 20-year-old Johnny Vulcano was looking for a place to play summer ball after missing out on a spring season due to class eligibility. That phone...
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‘Everything is gone’ in images showing wildfire damage outside Clinton, B.C.
There was little left besides twisted metal, blackened trees, the charred shell of a car and a tractor still burning in images taken at a property outside Clinton, B.C., by the owner, whose home was destroyed by a ferocious wildfire on Friday. Chris...
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Sun sets on another “successful” Stampede say organizers
The dust has settled after another successful edition of the Medicine Hat Exhibition & Stampede that featured three days of professional rodeo action, two well-attended night shows and one of one of largest parades in history. Although official...
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‘Everything on the table’ to combat U.S. tariffs – except oil, says Smith
Premier Danielle Smith sees the United States as a threat to Canada’s energy independence worth combatting through the construction of a new eastbound pipeline. But she’s not prepared to fight the current tariff threat by leveraging Canadian oil. At...
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NDP Leader Naheed Nenshi talks referendum, pipeline in visit to the Hat
In a Medicine Hat College lecture hall, NDP staffers handed out lawn signs bearing the slogan, “SEPARATION IS NOT THE SOLUTION” to the few dozen supporters who filled the room Wednesday to hear opposition leader Naheed Nenshi speak. His primary...
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Métis Kitchen Party Tour makes stop in Medicine Hat
On Wednesday night, Kin Coulee was filled with the sounds of fiddle music and feet stomping. The source of the merry sound was the latest stop in the Kitchen Party Tour, a travelling cultural celebration that kicked off in May. Medicine Hat marks the...
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Albertans divided on data centre development as experts, regulator projects short-term power price jump
As opposition to data centres across the country grows, the project queue in Alberta is growing longer and experts say the influx of power-hungry facilities is likely to impact consumers on their power bills. Protests against proposed data centre...
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Ready in the chute: Last chance for discounted Stampede tickets
Today is the final day to grab tickets for the Medicine Hat Exhibition & Stampede at a discounted price before the four-days of ‘Endless Summer’ begins on Wednesday. Stampede officials say tickets for the professional rodeo and both night shows are...
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Trump threatens increased tariffs on Canada over wildfire smoke in U.S. cities
President Donald Trump threatened Friday to increase tariffs on Canada due to smoke from wildfires in Ontario blanketing parts of the United States as Republican lawmakers escalated their complaints about air quality. “We are holding Canada...
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Alberta, Ottawa present united front after annual meeting of Canadian environment ministers
Environment ministers from the 10 Canadian provinces and the federal government met in Calgary this week, and in a closing press conference Wednesday, they celebrated a, “shifting landscape” in environmental decision-making. Alberta Environment...
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Latest dispute brings renewed attention to Jeffrey Rath’s long history of legal and disciplinary proceedings
One of Alberta’s most outspoken separatist agitators is embroiled in a legal battle with a First Nation in what is the latest in a long list of legal and professional challenges. Jeffrey Rath was the subject of a hearing Wednesday that saw Court of...
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Medicine Hat Women’s Shelter Society, federal government celebrate shelter expansion
The federal government is celebrating a success in Medicine Hat this week. A $7.6 million investment from the federal government supported the expansion of the Phoenix Safe House, an emergency shelter operated by the Medicine Hat Women’s Shelter...
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Experts question influx of major pipeline projects
Environmental and industry experts are split over the prospects of major pipeline developments as announcements proceed at a blistering pace. Earlier this month, two major pipeline projects were announced with ambitions to transport Alberta bitumen...
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Family, Fun and Flight takes to the Medicine Hat skies
Hundreds of Hatters were watching the blue skies over Medicine Hat on Friday afternoon as members of the Canadian Armed Forces Parachute Team, the SkyHawks, performed demonstrations during the opening day of the Dave Rozdeba Memorial Airshow hosted by...
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Alberta Decides: Inside Canadians’ views on Alberta’s outside ambitions
Anthony Koch’s Canada includes Alberta. And a prosperous one at that. But that doesn’t mean he doesn’t have questions about what’s happening here right now. “From my perspective, there’s a question. Even for those of us that like Alberta, love...
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