Awards go out to those tackling mental health issues head-on

Alberta’s mental health leaders will be recognized by Lt.-Gov. Lois E. Mitchell at a Friday night ceremony at Government House.

The True Awards from Mitchell’s Circle on Mental Health and Addiction recognize Albertans who work to end stigma and deliver innovative mental health and addiction services. Recipients set the standard for groundbreaking and compassionate care, offer dedicated service to Albertans and share personal journeys to inspire others.

Recipients this year include Mike Loughman from Airdrie, who lived with addiction for 22 years. Now 47 months sober, he has started two businesses to help folks with sobriety. Also being recognized are Clean Scene, in Edmonton, which supports and educates youth to reach their full potential through the pursuit of a drug-free and crime-free lifestyle. Youth awards go to Calgary’s Mehul Gupta and Rylie Essington.

PROJECTS COMPLETE

It has taken three years, but 10 government-funded projects at the University of Alberta are finally complete. On Thursday, Advanced Education Minister Marlin Schmidt trumpeted his government’s $26.5-million investment. The federal government also contributed $56.3 million to the projects, which include enhancements to an electrical and computer engineering research facility, modernization of a chemistry lab, renewals of the Augustana science and Campus Saint-Jean labs, and upgrades to the medical sciences building.

“Investments in post-secondary infrastructure are more than just bricks and mortar; they are an investment in Alberta’s future,” Schmidt said in a release.

NEW MLAS OFFICIAL

The two UCP MLAs elected during recent byelections were sworn in at the legislature building Thursday. Laila Goodridge, member for Fort McMurray-Conklin, and Devin Dreeshen, who represents Innisfail-Sylvan Lake, took their oaths in the Carillon Room.