Peter Casurella News Today

Each year nearly 15,000 students will study post-secondary in Lethbridge, with many coming from out of town. Once theyve completed their education, however, many choose to start their career outside the Lethbridge region -- a pattern Lethbridge stakeholders hope to reverse.

Launched as a collaboration between an economic development group called the SouthGrow Regional Initiative and Kainaiwa, Community Futures Lethbridge Region, Alberta SouthWest Regional Alliance, and Tourism Lethbridge, the pilot project hopes to spread awareness about the importance of preserving the Blackfoot language in communities across Alberta.

A new program is helping preserve the Blackfoot language, while teaching locals and visitors to southern Alberta about the regions history.

Tourism Lethbridge is preparing for a busy summer, and says this year theres an added focus on growing the citys agriculture and food tourism.

“This phase is likely to take two or three years, depending on the region. We have had some communication with government that they will be speaking with members of the community.”

"Alberta is open for business," Smith told those in attendance. "We have opportunities, well-paying jobs, we've got targeting support for strategic and emerging sectors."

Southern Alberta is known for its agriculture, however some say the industry has even more room to grow by creating experiences that tell the stories behind the food.

A new survey conducted by the Alberta Motor Association shows 27 per cent of Albertans would consider buying an electric vehicle.

LETHBRIDGE HERALDabeeber@lethbridgeherald.comAn electric tidal wave is rolling over the automotive industry and SouthGrow Regional Economic Development is