Briefing on Calgary Forest Lawn Federal Electoral District

Calgary Forest Lawn is a federal electoral district located in the province of Alberta, Canada. The district comprises a diverse range of communities that play a significant role in Calgary’s social, cultural and economic spheres. The interesting mix of young families, working professionals, and retirees makes Calgary Forest Lawn a dynamic place to live, work, and play.

Population Centres

Calgary Forest Lawn is predominantly made up of the communities of Forest Lawn, Erin Woods, Applewood Park, Penedoia, and Eastfield. Forest Lawn is a culturally diverse neighbourhood that is well-known for its vibrant shopping district, 17th Ave SE (International Avenue), which is home to a variety of restaurants, grocery stores, and shops that celebrate the area's cultural diversity. Erin Woods is a predominantly residential community that is popular with families due to its numerous parks and pathways. Applewood Park is a relatively new community with a mix of residential and commercial properties.

Issues and Events

In 2021, the federal election was a hotly contested issue in Calgary Forest Lawn. As one of the more ethnically diverse ridings in Canada, community members came out in force to vote in the election. The riding has been facing issues such as affordable housing and crime reduction. In 2019, Calgary Forest Lawn was also the epicentre of a measles outbreak in the city, which led to several schools shutting down due to high infection rates.

Economy

The economy of Calgary Forest Lawn is driven by small businesses, healthcare, and retail. The largest employer in the area is the Rockyview General Hospital, followed by other healthcare facilities such as the Peter Lougheed Centre and the South Health Campus. The area is also home to a diverse range of retail businesses that cater to the needs of the diverse community. International Avenue, in particular, has numerous small businesses that offer a unique shopping experience. A recent event that had a profound impact on the local economy was the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused many businesses to shut down or reduce their operations.

Important Landmarks

Calgary Forest Lawn has several landmarks that attract visitors from all over the city. The most notable of these is the Marlborough Mall, which is one of the biggest shopping centres in the east of the city. The mall offers a diverse range of shops, restaurants, and services that cater to the needs of the community. The area also has several natural attractions, including the Elliston Park, which features a beautiful lake and numerous walking trails. The park hosts the GlobalFest fireworks festival each year, which attracts thousands of visitors.

Arts and Culture

Calgary Forest Lawn has a rich cultural heritage that is celebrated through several community events and institutions. The District is home to the Calgary Chinese Cultural Centre, which hosts a series of cultural events and festivals, including the Mid-Autumn Festival and the Lunar New Year festival. The area is also home to the Calgary Multicultural Centre, which promotes cultural diversity and supports newcomers to the area. The GlobalFest festival is a great example of the area’s commitment to cultural diversity.

Electoral Issues

The top issues for the 2021 federal election in Calgary Forest Lawn were affordable housing, community safety, and infrastructure development. Several community members felt that housing affordability was a significant issue that was not being properly addressed. Community safety was another central issue, as there have been concerns about increasing crime rates in the district. Infrastructure development was also a major focus, with many community members calling for increased investment in public transportation and community services.

Community Organizations

Calgary Forest Lawn has several community organizations that work tirelessly to support the local community. The Calgary Chinese Community Service Association is one such organization, providing essential services such as language training and employment support to newcomers to the area. The Greater Forest Lawn 55+ Society is another group dedicated to improving the quality of life for seniors in the area by providing social and recreational activities.

Multicultural Groups

Calgary Forest Lawn is one of the most multicultural regions in Alberta, with a significant number of residents coming from Asian and East Indian communities. These communities have contributed significantly to the area's cultural landscape, and their cultures are celebrated through numerous events and festivals. The biggest of these celebrations is the Lunar New Year festival, which is one of the biggest events of the year in the community.

In conclusion, Calgary Forest Lawn is a culturally diverse and dynamic community that plays a significant role in Calgary’s social, cultural, and economic activities. The area has several landmarks, cultural institutions, and natural attractions that make it a great place to live, work, and visit. While the area faces several economic and social issues, the community is vibrant and determined to overcome these challenges.