Best of Alberta Primetime

Original Air Date: Monday, July 02, 2012

Alberta Seniors’ Menu: Tough to Swallow?

Seniors and what they're eating in government-run, long-term and continuing care facilities is the topic of a startling, new mini-documentary produced by the Alberta Union of Provincial Employees. 

“Tough To Swallow - Meals That Sparked a Seniors Revolt” examines what has happened to food and food preparation in seniors’ facilities since Alberta Health Services moved to its provincial 21-day menu two years ago.

What did a food expert find when he taste-tested the menu? What does it say about meeting the dietary needs of Alberta seniors?
 
We speak with John Gilchrist, food writer for the Calgary Herald and the taste tester who appeared in the AUPE mini documentary.

The Future of Alberta’s Wild West

A government recreation survey reveals an increasing number of Albertans are swapping their saddles for ATV's and gym memberships. Riding is at a 50 year low.

The equine industry says the decline is due to the recent recession and only temporary. Skeptics argue Alberta’s younger generations are losing our horseback heritage.

Why are Albertans riding less? Is the sun setting on a beloved part of Alberta’s western culture?
 
Joining us for this discussion is Dr. Jodie Santarossa, Veterinarian at Brightside Vet and Consulting; Les Burwash, Horse Program Manager for Alberta Agriculture; Ron Anderson, Board Member for the Horse Industry Association of Alberta.

Focus on Economic Immigration

As Alberta braces itself for another boom, Canada’s Immigration Minister is looking to allow provinces and businesses to choose which potential immigrants should get priority, and clear the backlog of nearly a million people

But critics are concerned that this focus on filling jobs will bring in a new pool of immigrants with a narrow skill set, and takes the focus off of training those already in the country

How could these changes affect Alberta? Do businesses need more of a say in who should come into the province? What is the best way to choose new Albertans?

Joining us for this discussion is Jim Frideres, a Sociology Professor from the University of Calgary and part of the Prairie Metropolis Centre a Group that Researches Immigration and Integration; Evelyn Ackah, a Lawyer with the Firm Ackah Business Immigration Law; Deepak Obhrai, The Member of Parliament for Calgary East.

Catherine Ford on Multiculturalism

All of us must be accommodated, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or culture.

Traveling Alberta’s Boomtown Trail

100 years ago, Western North America was covered in boomtowns; small communities that popped up literally over night with the advent of the railroad.

In this Hidden Gem, taking a step back in time to travel Alberta’s Boomtown Trail.