High-tech innovations in the greater Calgary area have moved one step closer to market with support from the Alberta government. Getting inventive projects such as these into the marketplace not only creates opportunities for Albertans, but also makes the province an attractive place to invest.

Innovation vouchers totalling more than $2.6 million were awarded to 98 companies based in Balzac, Calgary, Cochrane, Okotoks, and Strathmore to assist them in getting the specialized expertise and services they need to move their ideas to the marketplace.

Across the province, 204 vouchers worth almost $6 million were awarded to companies in 33 communities. In April 2009, 179 vouchers totalling more than $5 million were awarded in the first round of the program to companies from 24 communities across Alberta.

The Alberta Innovation Voucher Pilot Program assists small businesses and entrepreneurs at the pre-commercial stage, where the majority of new businesses fail. Vouchers can be put towards up to 75 per cent of the cost of specialized services from an approved, non-profit service provider such as labs, fabrication centres or intellectual property managers. Businesses can receive only one $10,000 voucher and one $50,000 voucher over the life of their business.

Launched in November 2008, the program, which is the first of its kind in Canada, was developed as part of Alberta's Action Plan: Bringing Technology to Market. For more information about the innovation voucher pilot program and a list of all voucher recipients, visit http://www.technology.gov.ab.ca/.

Olympics deliver long-term benefits for Alberta

With hundreds of business contacts made and resulting media exposure that would have cost about $70 million to purchase, Albertans will see lasting benefits from the business, tourism and cultural promotion conducted at the 2010 Winter Games, Feb. 12-28 in Vancouver.

Alberta has a proud Olympics legacy, having hosted the 1988 Games in Calgary. More than half of the athletes on Canada's 2010 team were born, live or train in Alberta.

Highlights of Alberta at the Olympics include:

• the Alberta Train, which became one of the hottest tickets at the Games and attracted interest from guests and media from around the world. In total, about 2800 people rode the Alberta Train, including influential national and international tour operators and travel writers;
• an average of about 1000 visitors from around the world lined up every day to dine on Alberta food products and enjoy free concerts by more than 40 Alberta performers at Alberta Plaza;
• Alberta House hosted more than 2250 national and international guests including athletes, sports federations, corporate leaders, tourism operators, media, government officials and young Alberta leaders;
• special guests at Alberta House included Olympians Alexandre Bilodeau and Jenn Heil to Wayne Gretzky and the Canadian Curling Teams; and
• more than 60 Alberta artists and groups who showcased their talents during the Olympics and the Cultural Olympiad.

Premier Ed Stelmach and 12 provincial Cabinet ministers promoted Alberta over 17 days of the Games. Over three years, the government invested $14 million to acquire venues and promote Alberta in Vancouver/Whistler.

Premier Stelmach salutes Canada's Olympians

Alberta Premier Ed Stelmach issued the following statement on the tremendous success of Vancouver's 2010 Winter Olympic Games.

'Like all Canadians, I watched the Games with immense pride in this great country,' said Premier Stelmach. 'Everyone - the organizers, volunteers, spectators and especially the athletes - worked so hard to make these Winter Games a marvel.'

'I know every Albertan welled up with pride this afternoon as Alberta's own Jarome Iginla set up Sidney Crosby for the gold medal in men's hockey, capping off a fantastic Olympics by giving Canada its 14th gold medal of the Games.'

'It was Canada's most golden Winter Games. In fact, we won the most gold medals of any nation, ever. Alberta is proud of the role the province played in preparing this exceptional group of athletes for success. The legacy of Calgary's 1988 Games helped Canadian athletes take on the world, and win,' said Premier Stelmach. 'I also offer my thanks and appreciation to all of the Olympic families for supporting their sons and daughters, brothers and sisters through the many years of hard training preparing for the Winter Games.'

'Congratulations to all of Canada's Olympians - you made your country proud.'

Historic partnership to strengthen First Nation education in Alberta

The Government of Canada, the Government of Alberta and the Assembly of Treaty Chiefs in Alberta have signed an historic memorandum of understanding (MOU) on education. The MOU provides a common vision for strengthening learning and educational success for First Nation learners. It will also provide a framework for collaboration and will support a range of education-related issues including parental and community engagement, Treaty and cultural awareness, and on-going work on tuition and education service agreements.

Key highlights of the MOU include the following:

• the establishment of an Indigenous Knowledge and Wisdom Centre which will, for the first time, create a centre of education expertise for all of the First Nations in the three Treaty organizations;
• a commitment to develop a long-term strategic plan for First Nation education in Alberta targeted at improving First Nations student outcomes; and
• the creation of the Alberta First Nations Education Circle comprised of senior officials from all parties to oversee the implementation of the MOU.

Indian and Northern Affairs Canada will support First Nations in establishing the Indigenous Knowledge and Wisdom Centre and is committed to supporting the development of work plans and strategies contemplated by the MOU. As part of the MOU, the province will provide assistance and expertise in areas such as data collection and management as well as curriculum and resource development.

Province updates Alberta's elections legislation

The Alberta government has introduced legislative changes to update how provincial elections are held. Proposed amendments would also ensure that those involved in election campaigning and advertising properly handle and report financial contributions.

Bill 7, the Election Statutes Amendment Act, 2010, proposes amendments that will:

• allow the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) to appoint returning officers;
• change the way enumerators are appointed, eliminating the need for constituency association or political party involvement;
• broaden investigative powers of the Chief Electoral Officer;
• open advance polls to those who, for any reason, want to vote early;
• give Albertans who are prisoners the right to vote, in accordance with a Supreme Court of Canada ruling;
• improve third party advertising legislation;
• require candidates who run a campaign deficit to retire that deficit and report to the Chief Electoral Officer the manner by which it is retired;
• increase safeguards for the list of electors;
• update the types of information voters can present at polling stations, if required (e.g. government issued identification); and
• provide mechanisms for the Chief Electoral Officer to explore the use of new voting technologies and to conduct a pilot project that will see by-election polls open at 7 a.m. These innovative ideas will be explored by the CEO together with the Standing Committee on Legislative Offices.

This Bill will amend the Election Act and the Election Finances and Contributions Disclosure Act. The amendments were developed in cooperation with the Office of the Chief Electoral Officer and in response to recommendations for improvement made by that office. Other amendments in Bill 7 include technical improvements and stricter rules to allow the Chief Electoral Officer to better monitor and enforce financial reporting. This includes extending the time period over which records must be kept and requiring the reporting of more detailed information about revenues and expenses.

Alberta expands online campground reservation system

Starting March 8, Albertans and visitors can book more than 5,800 campsites at 50 provincial campgrounds online or through a new toll-free phone reservation service.

Online reservations at the 50 provincial campgrounds are available up to 90 days in advance at http://www.reserve.albertaparks.ca/.

• Online reservations start March 8 at 9 a.m. for the May long weekend.
• Online reservations start April 1 for the July long weekend.
• Online reservations start May 3 for the August long weekend.
• Online reservations start June 5 for the September long weekend.

Visitors can preview http://www.reserve.albertaparks.ca/ starting March 1 to research their individual campsite on an interactive map. The maps show the campsite size and features such as nearby trails, firepit location, and proximity to washrooms. The website provides a 360-degree panoramic view of each campsite and campground. Starting March 8, a new toll-free phone reservation service will allow those who prefer to speak directly with a reservation agent to book their campsite over the phone at 1-877-537-2757.

More than 20 provincial campgrounds, that are not online, will begin taking phone reservations at local campground offices on May 3. More than 140 other provincial campgrounds offer first-come first-served only campsites.

The Alberta Innovation Voucher Pilot Program assists small businesses and entrepreneurs at the pre-commercial stage, where the majority of new businesses fail. Vouchers can be put towards up to 75 per cent of the cost of specialized services from an approved, non-profit service provider such as labs, fabrication centres or intellectual property managers. Businesses can receive only one $10,000 voucher and one $50,000 voucher over the life of their business.

Launched in November 2008, the program, which is the first of its kind in Canada, was developed as part of Alberta's Action Plan: Bringing Technology to Market. For more information about the innovation voucher pilot program and a list of all voucher recipients, visit www.technology.gov.ab.ca.

Olympics deliver long-term benefits for Alberta

With hundreds of business contacts made and resulting media exposure that would have cost about $70 million to purchase, Albertans will see lasting benefits from the business, tourism and cultural promotion conducted at the 2010 Winter Games, Feb. 12-28 in Vancouver.

Alberta has a proud Olympics legacy, having hosted the 1988 Games in Calgary. More than half of the athletes on Canada's 2010 team were born, live or train in Alberta.

Highlights of Alberta at the Olympics include:

• the Alberta Train, which became one of the hottest tickets at the Games and attracted interest from guests and media from around the world. In total, about 2800 people rode the Alberta Train, including influential national and international tour operators and travel writers. Travel Alberta estimates that the resulting media coverage would have cost about $70 million to purchase;
• an average of about 1000 visitors from around the world, who lined up every day to dine on Alberta food products and enjoy free concerts by more than 40 Alberta performers at Alberta Plaza;
• Alberta House hosting more than 2250 national and international guests including athletes, sports federations, corporate leaders, tourism operators, media, government officials and young Alberta leaders;
• special guests at Alberta House included Olympians Alexandre Bilodeau, Jenn Heil, Wayne Gretzky, and the Canadian Curling Teams; and
• more than 60 Alberta artists and groups, who showcased their talents during the Olympics and the Cultural Olympiad.

Premier Ed Stelmach and 12 provincial Cabinet ministers promoted Alberta throughout the Games. Over three years, the government invested $14 million to acquire venues and promote Alberta in Vancouver/Whistler.

Alberta Utilities Commission Releases Heartland Information Session Schedule

Alberta's independent utilities regulator has finalized details of information sessions being held in anticipation of an application for the Heartland Transmission Project. The information sessions are designed to inform interested parties about the Alberta Utilities Commission (AUC or the Commission) public hearing process and intervener funding rules.

Beginning March 16, the AUC will be holding information sessions at six locations throughout the greater Edmonton region to explain its public hearing process, how potentially-affected parties can participate in the process and details of the regulator's local intervener funding program.

The need for the Heartland Transmission Project has already been determined by the Government of Alberta. The project's proponents, EPCOR and AltaLink, have stated in their public materials they intend to file a facilities application for the Heartland project, setting out routing and equipment, in the spring of this year. The Commission will hold a public hearing to determine if the project is in the public interest.

In order to maximize the preparation time for parties that may be directly and adversely affected by the AUC's decision and in recognition of the scope, nature and timeframe of this proceeding, the AUC announced enhanced procedural steps an participation opportunities on Jan. 20. These enhancements include streamlined standing procedures, pre-registration, flexibility in the degree to which participants may become involved in the Commission's quasi-judicial hearing, and a series of early information sessions.

Each session will begin at 7:00 p.m. with a presentation covering the AUC's hearing process and intervener funding, followed by a question and answer period. Details of the information sessions are as follows:

The AUC is an independent, quasi-judicial agency of the province of Alberta. The Commission has jurisdiction over the siting of facilities deemed to be critical transmission facilities as well as other transmission facilities, electric power plants and natural gas transmission pipelines. The AUC is committed to delivering innovative and efficient regulatory solutions for Alberta.

Province updates Alberta's elections legislation

The Alberta government has introduced legislative changes to update how provincial elections are held. Proposed amendments would also ensure that those involved in election campaigning and advertising properly handle and report financial contributions.

Bill 7, the Election Statutes Amendment Act, 2010, proposes amendments that will:

• allow the Chief Electoral Officer to appoint returning officers;
• change the way enumerators are appointed, eliminating the need for constituency association or political party involvement;
• broaden investigative powers of the Chief Electoral Officer;
• open advance polls to those who, for any reason, want to vote early;
• give Albertans who are prisoners the right to vote, in accordance with a Supreme Court of Canada ruling;
• improve third party advertising legislation;
• require candidates who run a campaign deficit to retire that deficit and report to the Chief Electoral Officer the manner by which it is retired;
• increase safeguards for the list of electors;
• update the types of information voters can present at polling stations, if required (e.g. government issued identification); and
• provide mechanisms for the Chief Electoral Officer to explore the use of new voting technologies and to conduct a pilot project that will see by-election polls open at 7 a.m. which will be explored by the CEO together with the Standing Committee on Legislative Offices.

The Bill will amend the Election Act and the Election Finances and Contributions Disclosure Act. The amendments were developed in cooperation with the Office of the Chief Electoral Officer and in response to recommendations for improvement made by that office. Other amendments in Bill 7 include technical improvements and stricter rules to allow the Chief Electoral Officer to better monitor and enforce financial reporting. This includes extending the time period over which records must be kept and requiring the reporting of more detailed information about revenues and expenses.

Former Strathcona councilor to chair Municipal Government Board

Ken Lesniak has been appointed as the new chair of the Municipal Government Board, effective March 1. Lesniak has previously served as councilor for Strathcona County and chair of the Elk Island Catholic School District. Lesniak also brings considerable management and municipal sector experience to his new role; he has held several board appointments including director for the Federation of Canadian Municipalities and vice chair for the federal Green Municipal Fund Board.

The Municipal Government Board is an independent and impartial body set up to make decisions on certain appeals and disputes stemming from the Municipal Government Act. This act forms the legal basis for the way local governments in cities, towns, villages and rural areas operate in Alberta.

The Municipal Government Board rules on issues such as:

• appeals on property assessment from decisions of a local Assessment Review Board (for example, if a resident disputes a property assessment by the Assessment Review Board, the resident can appeal the decision to the Municipal Government Board);
• complaints for linear property assessment, which includes pipelines and electrical power lines;
• appeals concerning subdivisions and equalized assessment, which aims to ensure property wealth is calculated in the same way in all municipalities;
• disputes between municipalities;
• annexation matters; and
• conflicts between municipalities and two or more management bodies such as housing authorities.

• the Alberta Train, which became one of the hottest tickets at the Games and attracted interest from guests and media from around the world. In total, about 2800 people rode the Alberta Train, including influential national and international tour operators and travel writers. Travel Alberta estimates that the resulting media coverage would have cost about $70 million to purchase.
• an average of about 1000 visitors from around the world lined up every day to dine on Alberta food products and enjoy free concerts by more than 40 Alberta performers at Alberta Plaza.
• Alberta House hosted more than 2250 national and international guests including athletes, sports federations, corporate leaders, tourism operators, media, government officials and young Alberta leaders.
• special guests at Alberta House included Olympians Alexandre Bilodeau and Jenn Heil as well as Wayne Gretzky and the Canadian Curling Teams.
• more than 60 Alberta artists and groups showcased their talents during the Olympics and the Cultural Olympiad.
• 21 projects were showcased through the Cultural Olympiad including the Alberta Ballet; Alberta Theatre Projects; Catalyst Theatre; David Hoffos; Theatre Calgary; and John Wort Hannam.
• participation of Alberta artists in ancillary cultural programming at many venues including the Talking Stick Festival; PRIDE House Whistler; Place de la Francophonie; the Aboriginal Pavilion; Art of Craft exhibit at the Museum of Vancouver and the Athletes' Villages in both Vancouver and Whistler.
• performance of Allez Ouest, Cadence Weapon, DJ Jay Mak and Raghav at the Victory Ceremony at BC Place on Feb. 17 - Alberta Day. Paul Brandt also performed following the medal ceremonies.
• release of Big Rock Brewery's Untapped Volume 3 compilation CD featuring 12 Alberta artists on Feb. 19. Visitors to Alberta Plaza received one of the1000 free copies of the CD.

Premier Ed Stelmach and 12 provincial Cabinet ministers promoted Alberta over 17 days of the Games.

Province updates Alberta's elections legislation

The Alberta government has introduced legislative changes to update how provincial elections are held. Proposed amendments would also ensure that those involved in election campaigning and advertising properly handle and report financial contributions.

Bill 7, the Election Statutes Amendment Act, 2010, proposes amendments that will:

• Allow the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) to appoint returning officers;
• Change the way enumerators are appointed, eliminating the need for constituency association or political party involvement;
• Broaden investigative powers of the Chief Electoral Officer;
• Open advance polls to those who, for any reason, want to vote early;
• Give Albertans who are prisoners the right to vote, in accordance with a Supreme Court of Canada ruling;
• Improve third party advertising legislation;
• Require candidates who run a campaign deficit to retire that deficit and report to the Chief Electoral Officer the manner by which it is retired;
• Increase safeguards for the list of electors;
• Update the types of information voters can present at polling stations, if required (e.g. government issued identification); and
• Provide mechanisms for the Chief Electoral Officer to explore the use of new voting technologies and to conduct a pilot project that will see by-election polls open at 7 a.m. These innovative ideas will be explored by the CEO together with the Standing Committee on Legislative Offices.

This Bill will amend the Election Act and the Election Finances and Contributions Disclosure Act. The amendments were developed in cooperation with the Office of the Chief Electoral Officer and in response to recommendations for improvement made by that office. Other amendments in Bill 7 include technical improvements and stricter rules to allow the Chief Electoral Officer to better monitor and enforce financial reporting. This includes extending the time period over which records must be kept and requiring the reporting of more detailed information about revenues and expenses.

Bill 7 does not address fixed election dates or allow Albertans to vote at any polling place in any electoral division. Leadership campaign financing rules are also not included in Bill 7 because a request will be made for a policy field committee to study this issue.

The 2008 Chief Electoral Officers' report contained a total of 182 recommendations. These were consolidated into 144 that, following discussion with the Chief Electoral Officer, formed the basis for government consideration. Of these, government accepted or revised 92 and did not accept 52.

Historic partnership to strengthen First Nation education in Alberta

The Government of Canada, the Government of Alberta and the Assembly of Treaty Chiefs in Alberta have signed an historic memorandum of understanding (MOU) on education. The MOU provides a common vision for strengthening learning and educational success for First Nation learners.

The MOU was signed by the Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development Canada and Federal Interlocutor for Metis and Non-Status Indians, Dave Hancock, Alberta Education Minister, Len Webber, Alberta Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Grand Chiefs Eddy Makokis, Confederation of Treaty 6 First Nations; Charles Weasel Head, Treaty 7 Management Corporation and Allan Adam, Treaty 8 First Nations of Alberta.

Strengthening the education outcomes for Alberta's First Nation students is a priority for all of the partners. This MOU will provide a framework for collaboration and will support a range of education-related issues including parental and community engagement, Treaty and cultural awareness, and on-going work on tuition and education service agreements.

The MOU provides a framework for change to guide restructuring First Nations education in Alberta. Key highlights of the MOU include the following:

• the establishment of an Indigenous Knowledge and Wisdom Centre which will, for the first time, create a centre of education expertise for all of the First Nations in the three Treaty organizations;
• a commitment to develop a long-term strategic plan for First Nation education in Alberta to improve First Nations student outcomes; and
• the creation of the Alberta First Nations Education Circle comprised of senior officials from all parties to oversee the implementation of the MOU.

Indian and Northern Affairs Canada will support First Nations in establishing the Indigenous Knowledge and Wisdom Centre and is committed to supporting the development of work plans and strategies contemplated by the MOU. As part of the MOU, the province will provide assistance and expertise in areas such as data collection and management as well as curriculum and resource development.

At the Gathering for Success symposium on Aboriginal economic development held in Banff at the end of June, 2009, Minister Strahl agreed to the development of this partnership proposed by Alberta and the Assembly of Treaty Chiefs in Alberta.

• Calgary by two additional divisions;
• Edmonton by one; and
• the Rest of Alberta by one.

Using the 2009 official population list, the total population being considered by the commission is 3,556,583. Based on this number, electoral divisions will have an average population, or quotient, of 40,880. Electoral divisions are to be within +/- 25 per cent of the provincial average population with the exception that up to four constituencies may exceed that range where sparse population is spread over large areas. The commission recognized two proposed special divisions, Dunvegan-Central Peace and Lesser Slave Lake.

The Commission has attempted to limit the variations in the average population per division. Under the commission's recommendations the variation of the average population per electoral division from the quotient would range from +4.3 per cent in Calgary to -2.8 per cent in the Rest of Alberta.

• Calgary: +4.3 per cent;
• Edmonton: +0.7 per cent; and
• Rest of Alberta: -2.8 per cent.

The variation from the quotient of the proposed electoral divisions within the categories is:

The commission is seeking public input on the interim report. Based on this feedback, a second series of public hearings will be held, to be scheduled as required during the period April 12 to 30, 2010. The commission will receive comments on this report and will issue its final report in July.

To view the report and related maps, visit www.altaebc.ab.ca.

Olympics deliver long-term benefits for Alberta

With hundreds of business contacts made and resulting media exposure that would have cost about $70 million to purchase, Albertans will see lasting benefits from the business, tourism and cultural promotion conducted at the 2010 Winter Games, Feb. 12-28 in Vancouver.

Alberta has a proud Olympics legacy. Our province hosted the 1988 Games in Calgary, and more than half of the athletes on Canada's 2010 team were born, live or train in Alberta.

Highlights of Alberta at the Olympics include:

• the Alberta Train, which became one of the hottest tickets at the Games and attracted interest from guests and media from around the world. In total, about 2800 people rode the Alberta Train, including influential national and international tour operators and travel writers.
• an average of about 1000 visitors from around the world lined up every day to dine on Alberta food products and enjoy free concerts by more than 40 Alberta performers at Alberta Plaza.
• Alberta House hosted more than 2250 national and international guests including athletes, sports federations, corporate leaders, tourism operators, media, government officials and young Alberta leaders.
• special guests at Alberta House included Olympians Alexandre Bilodeau and Jenn Heil as well as Wayne Gretzky and the Canadian Curling Teams.
• more than 60 Alberta artists and groups showcased their talents during the Olympics and the Cultural Olympiad.
• 21 projects were showcased through the Cultural Olympiad including the Alberta Ballet; Alberta Theatre Projects; Catalyst Theatre; David Hoffos; Theatre Calgary; and John Wort Hannam.
• participation of Alberta artists in ancillary cultural programming at many venues including the Talking Stick Festival; PRIDE House Whistler; Place de la Francophonie; the Aboriginal Pavilion; Art of Craft exhibit at the Museum of Vancouver and the Athletes' Villages in both Vancouver and Whistler.
• performance of Allez Ouest, Cadence Weapon, DJ Jay Mak and Raghav at the Victory Ceremony at BC Place on Feb. 17 - Alberta Day. Paul Brandt also performed following the medal ceremonies.
• release of Big Rock Brewery's Untapped Volume 3 compilation CD featuring 12 Alberta artists on Feb. 19. Visitors to Alberta Plaza received one of the1000 free copies of the CD.

Premier Ed Stelmach and 12 provincial Cabinet ministers promoted Alberta over 17 days of the Games.

Status report on grizzly bear population and habitat complete

A status report on Alberta's grizzly bear population and habitat, prepared by an independent scientist, is now available online. The status report establishes a new baseline of information using the advanced technique of DNA surveys and other data.

The report estimates there are 691 grizzly bears in Alberta, ranging in density from five to 18 bears per 1000 square kilometres. Some local populations with significant habitat alteration may be declining, other populations appear stable. The report also suggests that reducing human-caused mortality and motorized access to habitat are important for a self-sustaining grizzly bear population.

The Endangered Species Conservation Committee (ESCC) will use the status report to help make a recommendation on the designation of grizzly bears in Alberta. The ESCC is a multi-stakeholder committee of researchers, conservation groups, ranchers, industry and government.

A scientific sub-committee of the ESCC reviewed the report and will provide a status evaluation, in accordance with international criteria, to the ESCC for consideration. The ESCC will also recommend a designation to the Minister of Sustainable Resource Development. Grizzly bears can be designated as either Not at Risk, Data Deficient, Species of Special Concern, Threatened or Endangered.

Conducting population and habitat assessments were part of Alberta's Grizzly Bear Recovery Plan, accepted in 2007. Other aspects currently underway include public education and the BearSmart program, hiring and training bear management staff including a carnivore specialist, better managing problem grizzly bears, and a suspension of hunting.

For further information, including the status report Grizzly Bear (Ursus arctos) in Alberta, Update 2010, visit http://www.srd.alberta.ca/.

Alberta expands online campground reservation system

Starting March 8, Albertans and visitors can book more than 5800 campsites at 50 provincial campgrounds online or through a new toll-free phone reservation service.

Online reservations at the 50 provincial campgrounds are available up to 90 days in advance at Reserve.AlbertaParks.ca.

• Online reservations start March 8 at 9 a.m. for the May long weekend.
• Online reservations start April 1 for the July long weekend.
• Online reservations start May 3 for the August long weekend.
• Online reservations start June 5 for the September long weekend.

Visitors can now preview Reserve.AlbertaParks.ca to research their individual campsite on an interactive map. The maps show the campsite size and features such as nearby trails, fire-pit location, and proximity to washrooms. The website provides a 360-degree panoramic view of each campsite and campground. Starting March 8, a new toll-free phone reservation service will allow those who prefer to talk to a real person, to book their campsite over the phone at 1-877-537-2757.

In 2009, campers made nearly 50,000 online reservations. More than 20 provincial campgrounds, that are not online, will begin taking phone reservations at local campground offices on May 3. More than 140 other provincial campgrounds offer first-come first-served only campsites.

• bolster the front lines of Alberta police forces with 100 new officers;
• launch a new vision for education;
• keep using the Sustainability Fund to protect municipalities, social programs, educational institutions and the health care system;
• continue to invest in research and technology solutions to environmental challenges posed by oil sands development, including the eventual elimination of tailings ponds; and
• seek fair treatment for Albertans under universal federal programs.

The full text of the 2010 Speech from the Throne is available online at http://www.alberta.ca/.

Office of the Premier
Bill 1 strikes partnership to make Alberta more competitive

Through Bill 1, the Alberta Competitiveness Act, the province will work closely with industry, business leaders and Albertans towards a shared goal of making the province one of the most competitive jurisdictions in the world.

This landmark legislation focuses efforts to ensure Alberta increases its competitive advantage in the face of increasing competition for investment and related employment opportunities from other jurisdictions in a post-recession economy.

Bill 1 will increase collaboration between government, businesses and Albertans. It will establish a partnership, led by the Premier, and comprised of relevant ministers and key stakeholders. By coordinating efforts to advance shared goals, the partners will develop strategies to enhance Alberta's competitiveness for the long-term benefit of Alberta families and the entire province.

This partnership will bolster the province's competitiveness by:

• advancing current Alberta competitiveness initiatives, such as the oil and gas competitiveness review and the Western Economic Partnership;
• developing strategies to encourage innovation, productivity and the adoption of technology;
• promoting effective policies and regulatory systems that deliver the economic, environmental and social outcomes Albertans expect; and
• measuring progress and reporting to the public about how Alberta's competitiveness contributes to the province's prosperity, environment and quality of life.

Government's efforts to increase competitiveness will cut through all sectors in the province, from agriculture to petrochemicals, research and development to transportation infrastructure and more.

Throughout the next year, benchmarks and goals will be established to measure Alberta's competitiveness. A report will be developed providing an overall framework for assessing competitiveness, and detailing the current state of Alberta's competitiveness.

Finance and Enterprise
Budget 2010 strikes the right balance by focusing on Albertans' priorities while limiting spending

Budget highlights:

• $1.3 billion in savings found through cross-ministry spending review.
• Cost savings re-invested in and new money added to priority areas:
• $1.7-billion increase for ongoing health programs; AHS deficit paid off;
• $250-million increase for school boards;
• benefit levels maintained for recipients of Alberta Seniors Benefit and Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped; and
• funding remains at $597 million for Persons with Developmental Disabilities program.
• Alberta's competitive advantage supported and enhanced:
• $20.1-billion investment in infrastructure over three years; and
• no tax increases; taxes remain lowest overall in Canada.
• $38.7 billion forecast total expense in 2010-11; $34.0 billion forecast revenue in 2010-11.
• $4.7-billion deficit forecast for 2010-11; $505-million surplus forecast in 2012-13.
• Savings in Sustainability Fund used to offset deficits.

Budget 2010 sets the stage for putting Alberta back in the black in three years while protecting health care and other priorities and holding the line on taxes.

Despite current fiscal challenges, the Alberta government will increase funding for health, basic education and supports for seniors and vulnerable Albertans, while maintaining the lowest tax regime in Canada. This is thanks in large part to cost savings found across government that are being reinvested in these priority areas.

As part of plans to balance the budget by 2012-13, a detailed review of ministry spending was undertaken and $1.3 billion in savings were identified. In light of an improved revenue picture, government was able to re-invest these savings into priority areas, without jeopardizing its goal to return to balanced budgets within three years.

Finance and Enterprise
Alberta Capital Bonds interest rate set

The interest rate for the five-year, fixed rate Alberta Capital Bonds, which went on sale Feb. 16, was set at 3.3 per cent.

Interest payments on the bonds will be made annually on March 15, with interest on the bonds paid in equal annual installments or compounded annually and paid at maturity.

This means, for example, that someone who invests $1,000 would earn a return of either:

• $165 in total, paid out in five equal annual payments of $33, or
• $176.26 in total, paid out in one payment when the bond matures after five years. This payment is higher as the investor earns interest on interest.

Funds raised through the bonds will help build accommodations for Alberta seniors, including long-term care and supportive living facilities.

The bonds will be available for purchase at participating banks, credit unions, investment dealers and ATB Financial branches in Alberta, and only to Alberta residents, and Alberta-based corporations and trusts.

More information on the bonds is available online at capitalbonds.alberta.ca.

Finance and Enterprise

New web portal helps increase businesses' productivity

The Alberta government has launched www.productivityalberta.ca to help Alberta businesses assess and improve their overall productivity.

The Productivity Alberta web portal will connect Alberta companies to tools and resources to help them tackle productivity challenges and improve their competitive position in international and domestic markets.

The website provides links to a wide variety of government and industry information and resources. It contains the most up-to-date information on best practices and productivity strategies, and there are assessment tools to help companies compare their processes with industry benchmarks.

The website is just one action government is taking to help increase provincial productivity. Government also provides on-site productivity assessments and training for firms wishing to improve their productivity, efficiency and overall competitiveness.

Agriculture and Rural Development
Province reduces regulatory costs for cattle producers

To help reduce regulatory burden on producers, the Alberta government is reviewing the existing regulatory process to identify barriers that add unnecessary costs and reduce competitiveness for our agricultural industry.

As a first step in this review, Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development will provide a grant of $25,000 to Livestock Identification Services to cover the cost of livestock inspection for Alberta beef producers who graze their cattle in Saskatchewan or British Columbia. This initiative will reduce trade barriers between provinces, lower production costs, and ease the regulatory burden for producers.

The grant will cover inspection costs of cattle that temporarily move into Saskatchewan or British Columbia for the 2010 grazing season which starts in April. Traditionally, about 25,000 head of cattle move between the provinces for seasonal grazing.

The Alberta government is working to be one of the most competitive jurisdictions in the world and has a clear plan for strong economic recovery. An important part of The Way Forward is making sure Alberta's industries remain globally competitive. For more information on the plan visit Alberta.ca.

Agriculture and Rural Development
'Explore Local' targets the home field advantage for agriculture

The Alberta government's new Explore Local initiative helps local farmers and industry in 'capturing Alberta's home field advantage.'

Explore Local pulls together existing efforts in areas such as farmers' markets, farm direct marketing, regional cuisine and Ag-tourism under one umbrella.

In the province, as in many other jurisdictions across Canada and internationally, local market channels for agri-food products and services are seeing record sales and unprecedented growth. Farmers' market direct sales in Alberta alone have jumped 30 per cent in just a few years - helping push total sales across Canada to over $1 billion.

The Explore Local initiative is in its early stages, with specific strategies taking shape that will evolve by working with industry. But, clear target areas for progress are already emerging, such as supporting new and expanded operations, building awareness and partnerships, and working with industry to address barriers to growth and expansion.

Explore Local: 'Capturing Alberta's home field advantage' is part of Growing Forward, a federal-provincial initiative.

Tourism, Parks and Recreation
Alberta brand to keep on riding the rails and highways

The Alberta Train and touring buses will now make a colourful impression on visitors to the Rockies through the 2010 summer and fall travel season in British Columbia and Alberta.

The train visually promotes Alberta on its daily runs between Vancouver and Whistler during the Games, and the Brewster motor coaches serve as ground transportation. Travel Alberta, the Government of Alberta's tourism marketing agency, estimates that Alberta will realize around $70 million worth of international media coverage through its Olympic tourism marketing strategy.

Building Tomorrow

Office of the Premier
Premier outlines priorities and actions to cabinet in mandate letters

Premier Ed Stelmach has released new mandate letters for his cabinet team. Priority activities are highlighted that support Alberta's return to prosperity and create the foundation for Alberta to emerge from the current economic downturn in the strongest financial position of all provinces.

The Premier said that the contracts with Ministers will create a stronger Alberta that will have the best financial position of all provinces, the most innovative and competitive economy in North America, the best performing health-care system in Canada and the most advanced infrastructure in North America.

In the mandate letters, Stelmach said he expects ministers to fulfill other responsibilities in addition to those outlined in the letters in the coming year and that all cabinet members must work together to support the government's priorities.

Ministerial mandate letters were first issued in December 2006 as part of Premier Stelmach's commitment to open and accountable government.

A copy of each Minister's mandate letter can be found on Premier Stelmach's website: http://www.premier.alberta.ca/Team/index.cfm.

Education
Historic partnership to strengthen First Nation education in Alberta

The Government of Canada, the Government of Alberta and the Assembly of Treaty Chiefs in Alberta have signed an historic memorandum of understanding (MOU) on education. The MOU provides a common vision for strengthening learning and educational success for First Nation learners.

Strengthening the education outcomes for Alberta's First Nation students is a priority for all of the partners. This MOU will provide a framework for collaboration and will support a range of education-related issues including parental and community engagement, Treaty and cultural awareness, and on-going work on tuition and education service agreements.

The MOU provides a framework for change to guide restructuring First Nations education in Alberta.

Indian and Northern Affairs Canada will support First Nations in establishing the Indigenous Knowledge and Wisdom Centre and is committed to supporting the development of work plans and strategies contemplated by the MOU. As part of the MOU, the province will provide assistance and expertise in areas such as data collection and management as well as curriculum and resource development.

Municipal Affairs
Municipal investment reaches across the province

In Budget 2010, Alberta municipalities (outside of Calgary and Edmonton) will receive $460 million in Municipal Sustainability Initiative (MSI) funding - a $247 million increase over last year.

Since the program was announced by Premier Ed Stelmach in 2007, Alberta municipalities have seen more than 1,500 key projects approved.

With this year's funding, municipalities are continuing to receive considerably more than they did before the MSI program was introduced in 2007.

To view this year's funding by community, visit: http://www.municipalaffairs.alberta.ca/images/MSI_2010.pdf.

Tourism, Parks and Recreation
2010 Alberta Winter Games celebrate success

After three successful days of competition and camaraderie, the 2010 Alberta Winter Games came to a conclusion at Bonnyville/Cold Lake. From February 4-7, nearly 2,350 participants from across Alberta competed in 24 different activities.

Three awards were handed out at the closing ceremonies:

• Alberta Cup: Awarded to the zone that achieves the most medal points - Calgary (Zone 3);
• Minister's Cup: Awarded to the zone showing the greatest improvement from one Alberta Games to the next - Northeast Alberta (Zone 7); and
• Spirit of Sport Award: Presented to the zone which best demonstrates the spirit of fair play, sportsmanship, team spirit and cooperation on and off the field of play - Edmonton (Zone 6).

Approximately 3,000 volunteers helped feed, transport and host the athletes. Two years of preparation and planning by local organizers were required in order to host the event, which also relied on the support of various community partners.

The first Alberta Winter Games were held in Banff in 1976 and now take place every two years. The 2010 Alberta Sumer Games will be held in Peace River from July 19-25 and the 2012 Alberta Winter Games are set for Spruce Grove.

To view results of the 2010 Alberta Winter Games please visit www.albertagames.com.

Strong Communities

Children and Youth Services
Families to benefit from expansion of positive parenting program

The Alberta government has expanded the Positive Parenting Program (Triple P) to 45 Parent Link Centres across the province, giving parents greater access to a program proven to help build stronger families.

Based on 30 years of research, Triple P is designed to assist families with flexible, timely support when they need it most. The program offers parents advice and resources tailored to their unique needs to handle common issues and more complex situations that can result when caring for children. Services range from offering general information or guidance, tip sheets, parenting advice and workshops, to offering more advanced support to help parents experiencing significant behavioural issues with their children. Triple P is offered from Parent Link Centres free-of-charge.

In 2010-11, the Alberta government will invest $1 million in Safe Communities funding to support the continued expansion of Triple P, which will include additional training for Parent Link Centre staff across the province.

To learn more about Triple P, visit www.triplep.net or go to a Parent Link Centre nearest to your community. Parent Link Centre locations can be found at http://www.parentlinkalberta.ca/.

Justice and Attorney General
Intervention programs support at-risk Albertans and reduce crime

Intervention programs that address family violence, housing for the mentally ill and at-risk youth are getting a boost from the Safe Communities Innovation Fund. The fund provides support to programs aimed at prevention to support long-term crime reduction in Alberta. The four final funding recipients from the first round of applications include:

• Connect Family and Sexual Abuse Network (formerly Calgary Collaborative Services Centre): $1.45 million for services for Albertans affected by domestic violence and sexual assault;
• Mental Health Supported Housing Initiative: $1.35 million to deliver a supported mental health housing program in Edmonton for individuals in the criminal justice system with a serious mental illness or addiction;
• Assessment Support Intervention Success Team: $540,000 to offer intervention services to grade 7-12 students in Edmonton Catholic Schools with risk factors for criminal behaviour; and
• Bamboo Shield: $670,000 to help reduce criminal behaviour among high-risk Aboriginal and immigrant youth in two Edmonton junior high schools.

Health and Wellness
Government acts quickly on health committee report

Consultation on developing a new Alberta Health Act will begin immediately with legislation expected later this fall.

The Government of Alberta has accepted the recommendations from the Minister's Advisory Committee on Health report.

The committee released its 48-page report on Jan. 20 centered on four recommendations:

• articulate a set of principles that must be sustained and maintained throughout Alberta's health system;
• legislate an Alberta Health Act for the future;
• ensure ongoing citizen engagement in the development of legislation, regulation and policy including the development of a patient charter; and
• develop clear directions to guide legislative, regulatory, policy and program delivery changes across the health system.

A blueprint that reflects the feedback from Albertans, and includes a detailed plan to move forward will be presented to the Minister by Sept. 30, 2010.

The Minister's Advisory Committee on Health report is available at http://www.health.alberta.ca/.

Health and Wellness
Surgeries increased, wait times reduced

Alberta Health Services (AHS) and Alberta Health and Wellness have announced a six-week plan through March 31 to immediately increase the number of surgeries in high-priority areas.

Surgeries will be further increased during April, May and June as more surgical capacity becomes available, including more operating-room time and increased availability of surgeons and surgical teams.

At least 2,230 more surgeries and non-surgical procedures with long wait lists have been approved for the initial surge through March 31, including urgent cancer surgery, orthopedic surgery (including hip and knee replacements), neurosurgery, heart surgery and cataract surgery. As well, 3,500 more MRI and CT scans will be added immediately.