KNA-Pedestrian/Cycling Issues Committee-Update from the Dec 15th meeting

13 people came out to the newly formed KNA-Pedestrian/Cycling Issues Committee.
Discussion focused around working with Strathcona Advisory Council to tackle Main and Dundurn Streets with a plan to influence the format of the next Public Information Centre for Strathcona Master Transportation Plan.

Also, talked about painting pavement at Kent and Herkimer (on hold), speedwatch at Aberdeen, Trinity Development proposal.
They plan to have a meeting that will focus on effective strategizing for mobilizing citizens in January.

Jingle Bell Walk at St Joesph's Catholic School

St. Joseph’s kids take Jingle Bell walk – encouraged to walk to school despite the short days and cold weather

St. Joseph’s Elementary School, 270 Locke St. South, took part in a Jingle Bell Walk on Dec. 16^th.
Despite the short days and cold temperatures, children are encouraged to make walking part of their daily school routine.

Each of the 515 students at St. Joseph’s was sent home with a set of bells to attach to their boots or sneakers. The entire school took a group Jingle Bell Walk around the school property.

This was a festive way of expressing the commitment St. Joseph Elementary has made to the Active and Safe Routes to School program. The Jingle Bell Walk was a friendly reminder to parents and students that physical activity, pedestrian safety, traffic congestion, air quality and community spirit all benefit from walking to school.

Although social and health benefits are the primary motives for this project, school Principal Flora Nordoff notes traffic congestion is a serious problem around the school in the morning. Buses, bringing French Immersion students from out of catchment, are competing with parents who drive their children for convenience. The morning traffic jam is unsafe and unpleasant for young students walking.
The walk was mentioned on CHML and the Spectator has contacted us about it.
Thanks to Public Health, Sharon Mckinnon and parent Rebekah Jackson who helped with getting this going.

Do Something!

December 12, 2008

The Canadian Press

Canadian Arctic to melt so quickly, the region will have an ice-free season in six years.

Following a 15-month expedition, scientists from Canada and 15 other countries warn an ice-free Arctic for part of the year will have a major impact on wildlife, Inuit communities, and the entire northern ecosystem.

They note only two years ago, a seasonal ice-free Arctic was predicted by 2030.

Dr. David Barber, one of the scientists on the expedition, says `the Arctic is telling us that climate change is coming quicker and stronger.’

Canadian scientists attending this week’s International Arctic Change conference in Quebec City say the call for immediate government action on climate change appears to be falling on deaf ears.

Barber says unless Canada and other nations show the political will and leadership needed to reduce climate change, the consequences will be increasingly difficult to manage in the near future.

HIke a la Reble

Dec 4th
Our super-volunteer, Richard Reble lead a hike around the grounds of Dundurn Castle, the magnificent home of Sir Allan Napier MacNab, one of Canada's first premiers.
On a freezing cold night, (and despite the fact that the posters I put up around town advertising the event were taken down-who knows why?!!!) 20 brave souls came out and enjoyed a brisk walk together.
Who's up for another one?

Personal Safety workshop

Officer Steve Mahler gave 2 presentations Dec 2nd:
one was with a group of 25 (?) engaging, grade 8 students (Ryerson Sage Quest program). The other evening presentation was at the Ryerson Rec centre. 12 people came out for that.