The Alberta Government posted record budget surpluses in 2005 and 2006. Revenues were attained primarily through record non-renewable resource revenues. Oil sands development as the major economic driver of Alberta's economy and accounts for 62 per cent of major projects. The processes used to develop and extract energy from the oil sands, mining and in-situ recovery, are also known to be the most harmful to the environment with damage ranging from habitat destruction, depletion of freshwater reserves and the production of large amounts of greenhouse gas emissions. Despite the known negative impact on the environment, record numbers of megaprojects and new lease agreements are being processed. Critical praxis theory and critical discourse analysis methods are utilized to examine how stakeholders frame issues in the news media to create and shape public perception of the environmental impact of energy development in Alberta, Canada. This book aims to contribute to the field of discourse analysis by gaining a deeper understanding of how discourse is used to argue and support an argument in the print news media.

Now in its third edition, In the News is the standard Canadian textbook on media relations, used across the country. The authors provide an introduction to media relations, grounded in both communications theory and hands-on, day-to-day experience. Whether you need to promote your issues to the nation or reach small, targeted groups, this book is your step-by-step guide. In the News is perfect for communications students; media relations practitioners in the private, public and voluntary sectors; and anyone who wants to break a story.

Experts in public relations, marketing, and communications have created the most comprehensive textbook specifically for Canadian students and instructors. Logically organized to lead students from principles to their application-and generously supplemented with examples and case studies-the book features chapters on theory, history, law, ethics, research methods, planning, writing, marketing, advertising, media, and government relations, as well as digital, internal, and crisis communications. Chapters open with learning objectives and conclude with lists of key terms, review and discussion questions, activities, and recommended resources. Fundamentals of Public Relations and Marketing Communications in Canada will be essential in post-secondary classes and will serve as a valuable reference for established professionals and international communicators working in Canada. Contributors: Colin Babiuk, Sandra L. Braun, Wendy Campbell, John E.C. Cooper, Marsha D'Angelo, Ange Frymire Fleming, Mark Hunter LaVigne, Danielle Lemon, Allison G. MacKenzie, Sheridan McVean, Charles Pitts, David Scholz, Jeff Scott, Charmane Sing, Amy Thurlow, Carolyne Van Der Meer, Ashleigh VanHouten, Cynthia Wrate, and Anthony R. Yue. Sponsor: Hill + Knowlton Strategies