Scientists on the Hunt for the Holy Grail: Drought-Resistant Wheat

Scientists on the Hunt for the Holy Grail: Drought-Resistant Wheat

With climate change leading to more frequent and severe droughts, scientists are racing to develop a wheat variety that can withstand these conditions. Wheat, a staple food for billions worldwide, is particularly vulnerable to water shortages due to its high water consumption. Traditional plant breeding methods have made some progress in creating drought-tolerant varieties, but the process is slow. Gene editing techniques, which allow for more precise changes to plant DNA, are offering new hope for a truly drought-resistant wheat. While challenges remain, such as the sheer complexity of the wheat genome, scientists are making strides and believe that this agricultural Holy Grail is within reach.

Bear Warnings Issued in Banff National Park

Bear Warnings Issued in Banff National Park

Parks Canada has issued bear warnings for Saskatchewan Crossing Resort and the eastern section of Bow Valley Parkway (Highway 1A) in Banff National Park. Black bears and grizzly bears have been spotted in these areas. Visitors are advised to be aware of their surroundings, make noise while hiking and cycling, and carry bear spray. Minimum safe distances from wildlife are 100 meters for bears, wolves, cougars, and coyotes, and 30 meters for deer, elk, sheep, and moose. Sightings should be reported to the Visitor Centre, Johnston Canyon Campground kiosk, or Banff Dispatch.

Crowchild Trail Maintenance to Begin, Causing Traffic Delays

Crowchild Trail Maintenance to Begin, Causing Traffic Delays

A major road maintenance project will begin on Crowchild Trail in Calgary on Monday, June 3. The work will take place on a nine-kilometer stretch of Crowchild Trail N.W. between Stoney Trail and 32nd Avenue. The project is expected to be completed in mid-September, with a shutdown in July during the Calgary Stampede. The city says the work is essential to ensure the safety and longevity of the road and sidewalks. Crews will be repairing and replacing asphalt, concrete, sidewalks, wheelchair ramps, curbs, barriers, and gutters. Commuters are expected to experience delays during the construction period. The city says one to two lanes in each direction of Crowchild Trail will always be open, and most of the work will be done in off-peak hours.

Multi-Vehicle Collision Injures Multiple on Calgary’s Stoney Trail N.W.

Multi-Vehicle Collision Injures Multiple on Calgary’s Stoney Trail N.W.

Multiple individuals sustained injuries in a multi-vehicle collision on Calgary’s Stoney Trail N.W. near the Bow River bridge crossing on Saturday. The incident involving two vehicles occurred around 4:00 p.m., resulting in the closure of all southbound lanes on Stoney Trail and causing significant traffic delays. Witnesses reported a white van colliding with a food truck. Those injured were transported to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries. The police investigation into the cause of the accident is ongoing.

Parkinson’s Picnic Raises Funds, Awareness in Calgary

Parkinson’s Picnic Raises Funds, Awareness in Calgary

Family, friends, and researchers gathered on St Patrick’s Island for a fundraising and awareness picnic dedicated to Parkinson’s Disease. The event, hosted by the Calgary Parkinson’s Research Initiative at the University of Calgary, featured face painting, live music, and games, with the goal of raising funds and supporting research into new treatments and therapies for the neurological disorder.

Former Train Conductor Expresses Condolences, Urges Caution After Teen Killed by Train

Former Train Conductor Expresses Condolences, Urges Caution After Teen Killed by Train

A seasoned train conductor has extended his sympathies to the family of a 17-year-old student who tragically lost their life after being struck by a train in northwest Calgary. The incident, which occurred near a bridge in the Bowness community, has served as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with venturing onto railway tracks. The former conductor, Lou Schillaci, emphasized that trains require a substantial distance to stop, highlighting the importance of staying away from these areas. While safety measures such as fences and warning signs have been implemented, Schillaci stressed that personal responsibility is crucial in preventing similar tragedies.

Juror Excused for Wearing T-shirt with Accused’s Faces in Murder-Conspiracy Trial

Juror Excused for Wearing T-shirt with Accused’s Faces in Murder-Conspiracy Trial

A prospective juror for a murder-conspiracy trial involving two men charged in connection with the 2022 Coutts border blockade was excused after he appeared in court wearing a T-shirt with the faces of the accused printed on it. During the jury selection process, several other potential jurors were also excused for various reasons, including a man who works overnight shifts and a woman who had a non-refundable trip booked to Europe.

A 14-year veteran of overnight shifts said he wouldn’t be able to stay awake, while another potential juror was excused due to bias because his brother was a police officer. The woman who was excused due to her upcoming trip burst into tears of joy when the judge granted her request.

After a four-hour proceeding, a jury of five men and nine women was selected to preside over the trial, which is scheduled to begin later this week. The accused, Anthony Olienick and Chris Carbert, are facing charges of conspiracy to commit murder of police officers, mischief, and possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose.

Calgary Police Chief Mark Neufeld: Leaked Survey Causing Division

Calgary Police Chief Mark Neufeld: Leaked Survey Causing Division

Calgary Police Chief Mark Neufeld expressed concern over a leaked internal police survey that criticized his leadership, stating that it has caused harm and division within the force. The survey, conducted by Leger Marketing and initiated by the Calgary Police Association (CPA), gave Neufeld a “D” grade while other executive leaders received more favorable reviews. Neufeld emphasized the importance of constructive feedback but criticized the survey’s approach, saying it has caused distress to those involved and their families.

Eau Claire Market Closes, Making Way for New Greenline LRT Station and Plaza

Eau Claire Market Closes, Making Way for New Greenline LRT Station and Plaza

Friday marked the last day of operations for Eau Claire Market, a historic shopping and entertainment destination in Calgary. The closure paves the way for the demolition of the site this summer to make room for a new Greenline LRT station and plaza. The market, which opened in 1993, struggled to keep shops occupied in recent years and has been slated for demolition for years. While some people are disappointed with the impending demolition, others are excited about the new possibilities that the next chapter will bring.

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