Community service is a big part of sentencing, however, those who work in the courts are finding a shortage of placements for those navigating the legal system.
     Service to the community has become an integral part of the legal system. Often included as a part of sentencing is for the offender to work within the community. There is also a need for placements for programs such as alternative measures, where a person facing minor legal issues can complete a program and not have a criminal record, or extrajudicial sanctions, a similar program for youth.
    Defense lawyer Colin Kloot has seen where clients are given the opportunity to make a difference in their community and also possibly clear up legal issues, however the are having problems finding a place to work.
    These placements can be with any charitable organization that is able to provide a supervisor. This could be churches, museums or other organizations. The work is completed with no payment to the individual.
    Probation officer Kristi Donison sees community service opportunities as an important part of the process.
    “They want to give back,” said Donison. “The more involved in the community, the less likely they are to reoffend, in my experience.”
    For information on the program, contact Donison at 403-823-1664 or email kristi.donison@gov.ab.ca.

On the first full day of the election campaign, Tuesday, March 27, Wildrose Party leader, Danielle Smith stopped by the Badlands Community Facility  , to deliver the Wildrose message that Alberta needs a change.
    Smith arrived in Drumheller late Tuesday afternoon in the second edition of her campaign bus. Over 50 residents attended the event to listen to Smith’s election platform.
    One of the main themes of Smith’s nearly 15 minute speech was that the Progressive Conservative party has been in power too long and, as a consequence, are out of touch.
    “The PC’s have succumbed to a culture of entitlement, in which the only thing that matters is what’s in it for them. That’s why the choice that Albertans face on April 23 is so important,” said Smith.
    Smith explained that the Wildrose represents a fresh conservative government alternative.
    “It’s time for a real conservative government that respects property rights, that won’t raise taxes, that will cut spending and balance the budget, and that represents Albertans and not bureaucrats. It’s time Alberta, it’s time for a new Wildrose government,” said Smith.
    Smith promised that the Wildrose, if in power, would put money in the front lines of health care and education, so doctors and nurses can treat Albertans and teachers can teach.
    Smith presented the first pledge of the Wildrose campaign, the Balanced Budget and Savings Act.
    In the promised act, year-over-year spending would be limited to increases in population plus inflation, mandate a return to balanced budgets without cuts to teachers, nurses, or other front line services, and grow the Heritage Fund to $200 billion in 20 years.
    Smith’s stop in Drumheller happened on the first full day of the election campaign, the writ had dropped the previous day.
    “On the second day of the writ drop I’m pleased and proud. It shows we want to engage with Albertans,” said Rick Strankman, Wildrose candidate for Drumheller-Stettler. “I was quite blessed that we were able to have her this early in the campaign.”
    Smith may come to Drumheller again, depending on how the election develops.
    The Wildrose has been gaining momentum throughout the province explained Strankman.
    “We’re going to make great strides here in the province. People are coming out, grabbing signage and showing support,” said Strankman.
    “The PC’s time is up,” said Smith. “It’s time for a change. It’s time for a Wildrose government. It’s time for a government that puts people first.”