Did you know that not everyone celebrates New Year’s on the same day? This year, the Chinese New Year is on February 12. The Japanese New Year starts on January 1 but ends on January 4. The Jewish New Year (Rosh Hashanah) will be on September 6, while the Islamic New Year (Hijra) is from August 9 to 10 this year. In India, the Hindu New Year typically falls on the 14th or 15th of April. So, whoever and wherever you may be, Happy New Year!
As I am writing this in November, I am already pleased to say that our ice rinks are just starting to come to life, and already kids are using it every day. This rink would not be possible without dedicated volunteers who help maintain this rink during this season. Volunteering needed. More details in this issue. As this goes to print, we have new directives from the Government of Alberta. A new directive which will be reviewed mid-December, is rink usage. A maximum of 10 people only, are allowed at any one time. Please refer to our signage and any changes. You can also go on the www.alberta.ca webpage for updates.
Many thanks to Linda M for writing a wonderful article about idling your car. This is often done in winter to keep the car warm. While I walk daily throughout Banff Trail, I am often found nauseated by the exhaust from those waiting in front of schools, which leaves me ill for hours. Thank you for reminding us about our responsibilities. Please see her article in this issue.
Currently, the parking around Banff Trail on the street is free of charge. But did you know that Calgary City Council is considering permit fees for residential parking? The proposed yearly fees would be, $50 for first permit of a personal vehicle, $75 for a second vehicle, $125 for a third vehicle, and $75 for each of two visitor parking passes. More details in this issue.
Is there a kid in your home? Are they looking for a volunteer opportunity that delivers fun, parties, and friendship? The Banff Trail Youth Council is right in your neighbourhood. We are very proud to have Kim Jordan as our Youth Leader. Join our youth group! Visit [email protected]. Please see the Banff Trail Youth Council’s 2019 Halloween celebrations in this issue.
Would you like to see a cycle track in your neighbourhood? More details are in this issue about the Banff Trail Cycle Track.
Do you have a Banff Trail Community Membership? At the 2018 AGM, your BTCA voted to set memberships to zero dollars. Yes, free. To get a membership, just provide your name, contact information, and let us know if you live within the Banff Trail neighbourhood boundaries at [email protected] . Memberships run from March to February and do not automatically renew.
If you have anything you’re interested in, don’t hesitate to get involved. Our meetings are always on the first Wednesday of the month from 7:00 to 9:00 pm. Feel free to call 403-282-2234 or email [email protected]. You are more than welcome to attend! The Banff Trail Community Association consists of a pretty awesome group of neighbours who are here to make Banff Trail a great place to be.
Your editor for the Banff Trail Howler,
Ravenmoon Spicer
Honouring Indigenous cultures: Calgary (and Banff Trail) is situated at Mohkinsstsis (in Blackfoot); Wîchîspa (in Stoney); or Guts’ists’i (in Tsuut’ina) in Treaty 7 territory, home of the Blackfoot Nations, Stoney-Nakoda Nations, Tsuut’ina Nation, and the Métis Nation of Alberta, Region 3.