 The thesis was based in part on journalistic work he had done on the Calgary Herald's City Hall and Regional Affairs beats.In 1999 and 2000, Climenhaga was a leader in the attempt by the Communications Energy and Paperworkers Union of Canada to organize a union local and negotiate a first contract with the "Calgary Herald".Before and during the eight-month strike by journalists in 1999 and 2000, Climenhaga was Vice-President of Local 115A of the CEP.