- Edmonton has introduced a new pet bylaw that imposes tougher regulations on dog and cat owners. Owners of vicious dogs must display warning signs and complete mandatory behaviour training, with fines for attacks ranging from $250 to $3,000. Edmonton faces about 1,000 dog attacks annually. The bylaw manages about 70,000 feral cats by allowing volunteers to care for them without ownership obligations. Other changes include enhanced animal welfare protections, such as fines for unsafe pet conditions, free or discounted animal licences, and clearer urban agriculture rules.
- Coun. Michael Janz is calling for a portion of 99th Avenue near the Alberta legislature to be renamed Forever Canadian Avenue. Janz's initiative aims to celebrate patriotism following a pro-federalist petition that gathered more than 400,000 signatures. Janz argued that the separatist movement in Alberta jeopardizes investment and prosperity in Edmonton. His proposal comes after an Edmonton court dismissed a separatist group's petition for an Alberta independence referendum.
- Renowned Indigenous cellist Cris Derksen died in a car accident on May 15 near Slave Lake while returning from her father's funeral. Derksen, who is from North Tallcree reserve, was celebrated for fusing Indigenous rhythms with classical music. A mentor and global performer, Derksen received numerous accolades, including Juno nominations.
- The Global Economic Diversification Council summit is taking place in Edmonton, focusing on strategies to diversify the economy beyond traditional industries. The summit serves as a platform for exchanging ideas and best practices, emphasizing Edmonton's role in fostering economic growth and resilience in a changing global economy.
- Alberta's cool spring weather has delayed the activity of insects such as bees, wasps, and ants. Despite their non-native origin, dandelions play a crucial role in supporting these pollinators by providing nectar and pollen. Jenkins, an entomologist, notes that field ants, attracted to sugars and proteins, help aerate the soil and serve as food for other animals. Homeowners can manage ant invasions by sealing entry points and removing food sources. Pharaoh ants, a particularly challenging species, often nest in warm household spaces.
- The Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village east of Edmonton has reopened to the public, one year after a fire destroyed its visitor centre and about 27,000 historical artifacts, including items original to the site's historic buildings. While Alberta Infrastructure is overseeing the visitor centre's reconstruction, a temporary reception area has been set up to welcome visitors.
- Alberta is investigating the death of a man who died after waiting six hours in Edmonton's Royal Alexandra Hospital emergency room. Physician Paul Parks of the Alberta Medical Association highlighted severe overcrowding as a persistent issue. Alberta Health Services and Acute Care Alberta are reviewing the case to propose improvements. Earlier calls from Edmonton physicians in January warned of the poor conditions, pressing the government to address systemic issues, including underfunding and rapid population growth.
Headlines: May 19, 2026
By Mariam Ibrahim