Hanna Banana is a lively puppy found with her brother in Sherwood Park, both in need of care.

 

Initially underweight, she’s now thriving, thanks to attentive foster care.

 

Thought to be a collie, shepherd, and husky mix, Banana is highly intelligent and affectionate.

 

She adores cuddling, learning quickly, and delights in puzzle toys while still working on manners like counter surfing.

 

Banana’s gentle nature and skittishness suit a patient family, ideally with another dog and a backyard to play in.

 

Force-free training and older children are ideal to help her build confidence.

 

Spayed, microchipped, and vaccinated, she’s ready for her forever home.

 

Groups like NASAP and Heart Prints Dog Rescue Society are devoted to local pet adoption and care.

 

Neighborhoods such as Heritage Hills and Foxboro offer plenty of space for pets in Sherwood Park, making puppy adoption a rewarding choice.

A recent survey indicates that a significant majority of Albertans trust their local libraries to determine which books should be available, rather than relying on provincial government oversight.

 

According to the January 2026 TrendWatch Alberta Omnibus Survey, 82% of residents expressed confidence in public libraries' ability to curate materials, with nearly half indicating a great deal of trust.

 

In contrast, only 46% of Albertans trust the provincial government to make similar decisions.

 

The survey, which polled 900 Albertans aged 18 and older, found that nearly seven in ten respondents believe library materials should be selected locally by trained staff guided by library board policies.

 

Only 22% favored provincial rules governing library collections.

 

These findings emerge as the Alberta government considers new regulations on access to certain library materials.

 

The survey suggests such measures may face public opposition, with 60% of Albertans stating they would oppose laws restricting access to library materials, compared to 35% who would support them.

 

The Coalition of Alberta Public Libraries commissioned the research, which was conducted by Trend Research in partnership with Janet Brown Opinion Research.

 

The margin of error is plus or minus 3.3 percentage points.

 

In Sherwood Park, local library patrons have expressed concerns over potential provincial interventions.

 

One resident noted, "Our library has always been a place of learning and exploration. We trust the staff to make appropriate decisions without external interference."

 

Another added, "Imposing provincial rules could undermine the community's unique needs and preferences."

 

As discussions continue, the survey underscores a strong public sentiment favoring local autonomy in library governance.

 

Albertans appear to value the expertise of their local librarians and the tailored services they provide to their communities.

In the heart of Sherwood Park, the arrival of summer brings a wave of excitement and community spirit.

 

Residents eagerly anticipate a variety of events that celebrate the season's warmth and camaraderie.

 

One such event is the annual Summerfest, scheduled for August 18, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Wanick Park.

 

This festival promises a day filled with entertainment, food, beverages, and delightful treats for all ages.

 

Volunteers are always welcome to assist in various areas to ensure the event's success.

 

For those interested in lending a hand, contacting the event organizers is encouraged.

 

Adding to the summer festivities, the Colchester Community League is hosting its Summer Sizzler on June 22, 2025, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Colchester Community League Hall.

 

Attendees can look forward to a bouncy castle, obstacle course, horse and wagon rides, lawn games, face painting, balloon animals, live music, a vendor market, and a barbecue with food available for purchase.

 

These events not only provide entertainment but also foster a sense of community and togetherness among Sherwood Park residents.

 

As the days grow longer and the temperatures rise, the community's enthusiasm for summer activities becomes palpable.

 

Whether it's enjoying a refreshing treat at Summerfest or participating in the myriad of activities at the Summer Sizzler, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

 

These gatherings serve as a reminder of the vibrant and welcoming spirit that defines Sherwood Park.

 

As we embrace the joys of summer, let's come together to celebrate the season and create lasting memories with friends and family.

Did you know? One of the world's most beloved frozen treats was invented completely by accident — by an 11-year-old boy!

 

In 1905, young Frank Epperson of San Francisco mixed up a batch of soda powder and water on a chilly evening. He stirred it with a wooden stick and accidentally left the cup outside on his porch overnight. 

 

Temperatures dropped below freezing, and by morning, the soda had frozen solid around the stick.

 

When Frank pulled out the frozen mixture and tasted it, he was amazed — it was delicious! He called his creation the Epsicle, combining his name with the word icicle.

 

For nearly 20 years, Frank made these frozen treats for friends and family. But it wasn't until 1923, when he was an adult with children of his own, that he saw the commercial potential. He applied for a patent and began selling his invention at Neptune Beach, an amusement park in Alameda, California.

 

Frank's children loved the treats so much they constantly asked for Pop's sicles. The name stuck, and the Epsicle became the Popsicle we know and love today.

 

In 1925, Frank sold his patent to the Joe Lowe Company, and the Popsicle went on to become a summertime staple across North America.

 

Today, hundreds of millions of Popsicles are enjoyed every year in dozens of flavours.

 

So the next time you enjoy a Popsicle on a hot summer day, remember — this refreshing treat was born from a happy accident by a curious 11-year-old boy over a century ago!

Strathcona County is welcoming applications for its 2026 community grants and public art initiatives, inviting residents, local groups, and artists to help shape a vibrant region.

 

Community Connection grants of up to $400 support neighborhood gatherings, like block parties and concerts, to strengthen safety and social ties.

 

Community Change grants offer up to $2,000 for projects that boost well-being, such as new gardens or emergency kits, reflecting the proactive spirit of local residents.

 

Artists can also join the Annual Art Acquisition Program, open to County-linked creators and equity-seeking artists on Treaty 6 Territory, with submissions due by April 26, 2026.

 

A call is out for muralists to design a standout mural at Sherwood Heights Multi-Sport Park, with applications open until June 4, 2026.

 

All applicants should check the County website for full details and are encouraged to submit projects that reflect the unique spirit of Sherwood Park and its neighbors.

Ardrossan has claimed the title of best community in the greater Edmonton area after winning top honours at the 2026 BILD Edmonton Metro Awards of Excellence.

 

The Strathcona County hamlet outpaced well-known competitors including Chapelle Gardens, Edgemont, The Orchards, and Sherwood Park’s Cambrian.

 

Strata Development, the driving force behind Ardrossan’s growth and the “Kingdom of Ardrossan” campaign, credits the win to their innovative vision of larger lots and diverse housing choices, setting the community apart.

 

Recent approvals will see nearly 90 new homes built across 15 hectares, featuring single-family, duplex, and executive lots—the largest ever developed by Strata.

 

A new commercial hub by the Recreation Center is bringing vibrant restaurants, childcare, and local services, enhancing daily life.

 

With a projected population of 6,000, Ardrossan is emerging as a thriving and welcoming destination in metro Edmonton.

RCMP dispatcher Megan Adkin stands inside the newly established Operational Communications Centre at RCMP Headquarters ‘K’ Division in Edmonton.

 

Operators at this center handle emergency and non-emergency calls around the clock, delivering critical dispatching services to 114 RCMP detachments across Alberta.

Sherwood Park is seeing a vibrant surge in women-owned businesses, with local entrepreneurs transforming the community’s economy and spirit.

 

The anticipated Queen of Hearts Women’s Show returns on Saturday, March 14, from 12–5 p.m. at The Agora, spotlighting talented women-led ventures from across the region.

 

Attendees can browse unique handmade goods, specialty clothing, and wellness products, while also meeting the passionate founders behind these brands.

 

The event aims to foster community and collaboration, giving business owners a valuable stage for networking and support.

 

Organizers hope to inspire residents to shop local and celebrate the growing influence of women entrepreneurs in Sherwood Park.

 

Admission is free, inviting everyone to connect, discover, and uplift local women in business.