Alberta battling dozens of wildfires

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When asked about their initial response to public safety incidents, readers overwhelmingly expressed concern for community well-being. Two senior residents shared that these issues have left them feeling unsafe in the city, in particular the prevalence of misbehaving or “unsupervised” youths.

👀 In today's edition:

• Human trafficking investigation leads to 10 local arrests

• Second-degree murder charge for Calgary boy

• Gardeners beware — gophers are here

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WORTH KNOWING

☀️ Today: High 23C, Low 12C. See the 7-day forecast.

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⚠️ Here’s the current smoke forecast / check Calgary wildfire and fire restrictions and the Alberta Wildfire Dashboard.

QUICK POLL

Alberta battling dozens of wildfires

Despite a recent drop in temperatures, wildfires continue to burn across Alberta, with 56 active blazes reported as of Tuesday. Officials say nearly half of those are classified as out of control. While cooler, wetter conditions have helped slow the spread in some regions, Alberta Wildfire cautions that the season is far from over. The wildfire danger rating remains high in certain areas, and crews are working around the clock to contain flare-ups and protect nearby communities.

The ongoing fires have forced evacuations in several rural areas and have prompted renewed calls for caution as residents prepare for what’s expected to be another active fire season. So far this year, over 503 wildfires have scorched more than 492,000 hectares—numbers that are lower than the same period last year but still above the provincial average.

In response to the ongoing crisis, the federal government announced it will match all donations made to the Canadian Red Cross. These funds will go towards wildfire relief and disaster recovery.

Need to know

🚨 Ten men have been charged following an investigation into trafficking of underage Indigenous girls on the Tsuut'ina Nation. None of the individuals arrested were members of the nation.

🏥 The median time spent in an Albertan emergency room in 2024 was almost four hours, a jump of nearly an hour from the previous year.

👨‍🌾 Gophers are terrorizing the residents of Monterey Park in northeast Calgary by doing what gophers do best — incessantly digging holes in gardens, backyards, and parks.

✈️ The Calgary Airport Authority is expecting 5.8 million passengers through the summer in what promises to be a record year for the airport. Officials have also warned of increased security and police presence before and during the G7 summit.

👀 James Fowler High School in northwest Calgary was locked down on Tuesday under suspicion of an individual with a weapon in the building. The lockdown was lifted after roughly an hour.

💔 A 15-year-old Calgary boy who fatally shot 16-year-old Jal Acor Jal in 2022 has been convicted of second-degree murder.

😷 As of Tuesday, there were 724 cases of measles in the province. Infectious disease specialists are expecting the number to continue to rise — and quickly.

🏢 Real estate and property management investor Oxford Properties has purchased four office towers in downtown Calgary.

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Swinging to support mental health

The Distress Centre Calgary is hosting its third annual Drive for Distress Charity Golf Tournament on June 19, 2025, at Elbow Springs Golf Club. The event aims to raise critical funds for crisis and mental health support services, responding to over 35,000 contacts so far this year. Organizers hope to exceed last year’s attendance and raise more than $100,000 to support programs like their 24-hour crisis line and the ConnecTeen peer support service for youth. Registration is open until June 9, with tickets priced at $300.

The tournament offers a full day of golf, meals, and a silent auction, creating an engaging and welcoming environment for participants. Beyond the enjoyment, every dollar raised directly supports Distress Centre Calgary’s critical programs, helping to ensure that vital crisis and mental health services remain accessible to those who need them most. Organizers encourage everyone—from dedicated golfers to community supporters—to get involved and help make a meaningful difference in the lives of Albertans facing crisis.

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Where to eat and drink

🍴 Meltro Burger: Meltro Burger is a Calgary-based burger joint known for its artisanal, handcrafted burgers made from scratch. Their menu features bold creations like the Meltro Majesty, Buffalo Burnout, and Hawaiian Island, all crafted with halal beef and complemented by indulgent sides such as Megamelt Fries and Onion Hoops.

🍴 The Coup: The Coup is a celebrated vegetarian restaurant located in Calgary's Beltline district, offering a diverse, plant-based menu crafted from locally sourced ingredients. Established in 2004, the restaurant emphasizes ethical dining practices, including compostable packaging and energy-efficient systems, while providing a warm and authentic hospitality experience.

Have a food or drink suggestion? Message us and we might share it!

Things to do

🎟️ Rez In The City 2.0: This fashion show, hosted by Authentically Indigenous Inc., returns to Calgary on June 22, 2025, at Southcentre Mall. This vibrant event showcases the work of six Indigenous designers, blending cultural heritage with contemporary fashion in a dynamic runway presentation.

🎟️ 403Market at The Confluence: On Saturday, head to 403Market to check out a diverse array of local artists, artisans, and vendors. From 10am to 6pm, visitors can explore unique handmade goods, enjoy live music, and support Calgary's vibrant creative community. It's a perfect opportunity to discover one-of-a-kind items and connect with local talent.

🎟️ Easy & Healthy Mediterranean Cooking: June 17 – Discover great flavours and improve your nutrition with recipes and tips for heart health, brain health or general well-being. (Free VIRTUAL class led by AHS Registered Dietitians).*

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