Seniors Seek Dental Care under the CDCP, Independent Hygienists Play a Vital Role

The Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), which provides coverage to seniors aged 70 and older, has seen a low uptake among oral health care providers, with only 9,000 signing up. Dental hygienists have emphasized their key role in the plan, especially for those without participating dentists. Independent hygienists have played a significant part in providing preventive care services in Alberta, where they have been allowed to practice without dentist supervision since 2006. The Canadian Dental Hygienists Association believes that independent hygienists will be crucial in the success of the CDCP, playing a vital role in providing timely and affordable dental care to seniors.

Oilers and Canucks Clash for Game 7 Showdown

The Edmonton Oilers and Vancouver Canucks will square off in a nail-biting Game 7 on Monday night, determining which team will advance to the NHL Western Conference final. The series is tied at 3-3 after the Oilers’ commanding 5-1 victory in Edmonton on Saturday night. The winner of Monday’s game will face the Dallas Stars, with the third-round matchup starting on Thursday.

Fort McMurray Wildfire Now Under Control

A wildfire burning near Fort McMurray in northeastern Alberta has been downgraded to “being held” status, as it has not grown and is not expected to threaten the community or infrastructure. Firefighters and heavy equipment operators have made progress in containing the fire, which is now 19,451 hectares in size. While the fire ban remains in effect for the Fort McMurray Forest Area and an off-highway vehicle restriction is in place south of Lake Athabasca, residents have been allowed to return home after evacuation orders were dropped on Saturday morning.

Alberta Cancer Patients Facing Extended Wait Times for Specialist Consultations

In Alberta, cancer patients are experiencing significant delays in accessing specialist consultations. According to the Alberta Medical Association, patients are waiting three to four times longer than recommended standards to see an oncologist. This alarming trend has raised concerns among healthcare professionals, with some patients facing waits of up to 13 weeks for a radiation oncologist consultation. The prolonged wait times have dire consequences, potentially compromising patient outcomes and quality of life. The situation has prompted calls for increased recruitment and training of oncologists in the province.

Calgary Transit and Victoria Park/Stampede Station Closures for Maintenance and Construction

Calgary Transit and the Calgary Municipal Land Corporation (CMLC) are conducting maintenance and construction work on LRT tracks and stations, including the Victoria Park/Stampede Station. The closures are scheduled to begin on Saturday at 2 a.m. and end on Tuesday at 4 a.m. Crews will work around the clock to complete track work, concrete work, and upgrades to the station’s canopy and oculus. The closures are part of a larger project that includes the extension of 17th Avenue onto the Stampede grounds. The $128-million project was previously expected to be completed in time for the Stampede in July, but those plans have been revised. The station is now expected to be completed later this summer, along with the opening of the extension.

Heritage Park’s New Show Spotlights Nellie McClung, Women’s Rights Pioneer

As Heritage Park opens its doors for the 2024 season, visitors will be treated to an engaging new show that delves into the life and legacy of Nellie McClung, a trailblazing women’s rights activist. Through a captivating radio play set in 1929, actors bring to life the struggles and triumphs of McClung, a member of the Famous Five who fought tirelessly for Canadian women’s right to vote and be recognized as persons. The performance incorporates live sound effects, adding a touch of excitement to the show’s important messages about preserving and fighting for women’s rights. The production aims to enhance the historical experience for park visitors, while also ensuring that McClung’s story and contributions remain relevant and inspiring.

Canada’s Tourism Industry Grapples with Wildfires and Climate Change Amidst International Convention

As the Rendez-vous Canada tourism convention unfolds, Canada’s tourism industry faces a major challenge: wildfires exacerbated by climate change. Hot, dry weather conditions have sparked massive fires in Alberta and British Columbia, forcing evacuations and threatening communities. The impact of wildfires extends beyond immediate destruction, as international perceptions of Canada as an unsafe destination deter visitors. Tourism operators report cancellations due to widespread media coverage of fires, despite the vast majority of the country remaining unaffected. The industry is also navigating rising insurance costs and staffing challenges resulting from extreme weather events. In response to these challenges, the federal government and stakeholders are working to address concerns and promote Canada’s diverse offerings beyond fire-affected areas.

Alberta Exploring New Roadway Out of Fort McMurray Amidst Wildfire Evacuations

Thousands of Fort McMurray residents were forced to flee their homes due to an out-of-control wildfire, prompting the provincial government to explore an alternative roadway out of the community. Currently, Highways 63 and 881 are the only routes leading south, causing significant congestion during evacuations. Premier Danielle Smith announced plans to consult on Highway 686, which would connect the Peace Region to Fort McMurray. This proposal aligns with recommendations made after the 2016 Fort McMurray wildfire, which emphasized improving communication and making FireSmart investments.

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