Edgemont’s President’s Message for December

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December is always a time of celebration in a number of cultures in our community. The street decorations bring a smile and everywhere I go, there is music playing. So, I thought I’d list a few wishes I have for this season.

I wish that the vendors and the customers at the Winter Market found what they were looking for and perhaps even a few things they weren’t looking for. We really pushed the variety of vendors this year (over 80!) and if you follow the ECA Facebook page you will have seen a number of them profiled. A nice variety for sure! In addition, ECA is always grateful for donations of food and funds to the Holiday Hamper Program as well as the Food Bank.

I wish that all Edgemont residents experienced food security and a happy, safe family life. Until that time, ECA works on putting together Holiday Hampers to supplement what some families are missing. We are still accepting donations including toys, and new or gently used items. In the past, we have received some things that were in very poor condition which leaves us with the task of disposing of them. Gift cards and monetary donations are very welcome and always the right size. Contact the ECA office for more information.

I wish that people would respect one another’s property. In Edgeburn Lane we have had folks dump their garbage into the garbage bins rather than make the trip to the landfill. This is very frustrating. The community that supports Edgeburn Lane operates on a tight budget and if we have to call in additional garbage bins, this means an additional expense. The money has to come from somewhere and that somewhere is one of the other essential budget items. Surely, if a person can drive the garbage to Edgeburn Lane, they can drive it to the landfill!

I wish that drivers would follow the rules of the road. Edgebrook Drive NW has become a racing track. Residents on that street report excessive speed and passing on the right side of the road. Someone is going to get hurt. We have contacted the City and the Calgary Police. We will be forwarding our concerns to DJ Kelly, our new City Councillor. Is this a case where we have to involve the media? Lately there have been a number of stories about pedestrians’ injuries and fatalities. I don’t want to see Edgemont added to that list.

I wish we had additional volunteers for the Snow Angel and Ice Rink programs. In the Snow Angel program, those willing to shovel walks will be matched with those needing their walks shovelled and who are challenged to complete that task on their own. The benefactors of the program are always very grateful and unless this is a really snowy winter, it doesn’t take too much time from the shovellers’ other activities. For the Ice Rink, we need people to help with snow removal and other tasks that keep the rink in good shape. The rink is very well used (weather permitting). Times are Wednesdays at 9:00 pm and weekends at 8:00 am. Volunteers who supported the Casino program can give themselves a pat on the back. Maintenance at the rink is funded through the funds you earned and will include new and upgraded lighting this year.

I wish that any Edgemont resident who has a notion to get involved would act on that impulse. Jymi is our Volunteer Coordinator, and she can be reached at [email protected] or call the office at 403-239-1211 for more information. We can likely tailor the task to the time you have available. We welcome new people with innovative ideas and some energy to put to a task.

The celebratory season continues into January so it seems to me that I should also include some wishes for the New Year. We have lots of exciting programs coming your way.

I wish that our first Coffee and Conversations event of the year on January 11, 2026, is well attended. The topic will be Wealth Management and Financial Planning skills needed to plan estates and create wills in Alberta, and Canada that reflect your wishes. The session will be facilitated by Hash Assad and Rehana Begum from Assad Wealth Management. Check the website for registration details.

I wish that we uncover new and emerging artists in Edgemont as well as encouraging some who have already uncovered their talents. We are hosting a sip and paint class on January 23, 2026, from 5:30 to 8:30 pm and the entry fee is $35 per person. Registration opens December 5. It’s meant to be a fun, relaxing event. Will I see you there?

For kids, we also have an exciting “Paint the Rocky Mountains” art class being taught by a local Edgemont artist for kids ages 5 to 10 years old. The date is January 25 from 3:15 to 4:45 pm and the cost is $10 – supplies included. Spaces are limited and registration opens December 9.

I wish that all those people who are long time Lego enthusiasts or who perhaps got some Lego in a present would consider supporting the Lego Mania Competition as either a participant builder or a spectator. ECA is hosting Lego Mania on February 7, 2026. There are 80 spots available. There are three categories; Things that Go, Scenes and Buildings, and Animals and Figures. Registration for the Lego Mania opens up on December 15, 2025. Additional details including the exact February date will be on the website once all is finalized.

Finally, I wish that Edgemont residents have a happy and healthy holiday season with family and friends. In particular, a shout out to the many, many volunteers that give freely of their time to support our activities so others can enjoy our community.

Best wishes to all,

Pamela Wilson

President

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