Crime drops sharply in Alberta

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👀 In today's edition:

• Alberta separation goes for constitutional review

• Why wine costs more

• Bike lanes could disappear

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Crime drops sharply in Alberta

Alberta saw police-reported crime rates fall by nine per cent in 2024, more than double the national decline, according to new Statistics Canada data. Alberta’s Public Safety Minister Mike Ellis said the results reflect strong work by police services across the province, including those serving Calgary and surrounding areas. Property crimes and vehicle thefts both dropped significantly, with decreases of eight and nine per cent respectively.

The improvements come as specialized Alberta Sheriff units have expanded operations in urban centres like Calgary, focusing on closing drug houses and increasing officer presence to address social disorder. Alberta recorded the lowest crime rate increase among all provinces – six times below the national average – suggesting Calgary residents are benefiting from broader provincial safety trends.

However, Ellis commented that federal bail policies continue to pose challenges for Calgary and other Alberta communities by “allowing violent repeat offenders back on our streets.” The province plans to maintain investments in front-line policing and specialized crime units while pushing Ottawa for policy changes to support local law enforcement efforts.

Need to know

👮 A retired RCMP officer named Geordie Erickson was charged with aggravated assault stemming from a 2019 incident where he shot a man in the cheek during a confrontation over stolen vehicles in Eckville, Alberta.

👨‍⚖️ Calgary police charged a man with multiple counts of sexual interference involving a child victim who was part of his extended family, with the alleged assaults occurring between 2011 and 2012 when the victim was nine or 10 years old.

🍷 British Columbia wineries criticized Alberta's new wine fees that took effect in April, claiming the charges added up to 30% to bottle prices and significantly reduced their sales to Alberta customers.

🌊 Multiple people, including both children and adults, fell into Calgary's Bow River near the 85 Street NW Bridge in Bowness on Tuesday evening, prompting a water rescue response from firefighters and EMS teams with no reported injuries.

🚴 Calgary's mayor scheduled a meeting with Alberta's transportation minister to discuss the province's potential intervention in municipal bike lane decisions, following the minister's criticism of cycling infrastructure in major Alberta cities.

🗳️ Alberta's chief electoral officer referred a proposed referendum question about Alberta separating from Canada to a judge for constitutional review after it was submitted by an executive from the Alberta Prosperity Project.

🚂 A 35-year-old man died after being struck by a CN Rail train in Edmonton's Maple Crest area, reigniting resident concerns about limited emergency access to the neighbourhood due to frequent train blockages.

New exhibition explores joy through creative chaos

Calgary's cSPACE Marda Loop is currently hosting "Into the Void and Out of the Void," the debut solo exhibition by local mixed-media artist Carmine Aspen. Running through Aug. 25 in the Cupola Gallery, the show explores how artists find joy through creative expression, regardless of their mental state—a theme that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable.

The collection spans everything from flowing paint and ink work to embroidery and collage pieces. Aspen describes their work as informed by navigating a mind that's "bright and hopeful but equally existential and depressive," creating art that captures this fascinating dichotomy between light and shadow through diverse mediums and creative chaos.

The opening reception takes place this Friday, Aug. 1 from 6-8pm, with Aspen on hand to discuss their work. The exhibition runs daily through the end of August (closed Sundays), offering visitors a chance to experience art that celebrates the unexpected forms joy can take in creative expression.

Where to eat and drink

🍴 Broken Plate Greek Restaurant: Savour delicious Greek flavours and Mediterranean hospitality at this beloved Calgary spot known for its fresh souvlaki and warm, welcoming atmosphere.

🍴 Sushi Bar Zipang: Enjoy expertly crafted sushi and traditional Japanese dishes at this long-established restaurant where skilled chefs create beautiful, fresh cuisine with care and precision.

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

Things to do

🎟️ Family Fun Fair: Bring the whole family for a carnival-style weekend adventure featuring exciting games, delicious treats, memorable photo opportunities, and fun activities perfect for creating lasting memories with kids of all ages.

🎟️ Days of Yore at Heritage Park: Step back through centuries of military history with an immersive experience where you can engage with Vikings, watch medieval jousting, witness cannon demonstrations, and explore historical camps spanning from ancient times to World War II.

Have an event suggestion? Message us and we might share it!

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