Re: “Best of Calgary 2008,” May 29-June 4, 2008.

It troubles me to know that the enduring disregard for two of Calgary's dispossessed neighbourhoods has been so broadly acknowledged by a publication that purports itself as progressive. Having grown up in both Dover and Forest Lawn, I can attest first-hand to the struggle that the communities and some of their residents face, but will not accept their undeserved labelling as our city’s Most Unlivable Neighbourhoods.

The crime rates of Dover and Forest Lawn are not entirely shocking when they are compared with others in the city, and it seems disingenuous to think that Fast Forward could justify slandering these communities given the limited distribution of the publication within them. I struggle to think how the inclusion of this category, for what seems to be the first time, could be considered beneficial for anyone other than those who wish to continue to neglect the promise that exists in both of these areas. These communities are certainly not unlivable but rather are unbelievable given the amenities they have and pretension they lack. Realistically, how many of the individuals who consider these areas to be unlivable have taken an opportunity to visit them? These areas contain within them park and pathway systems that few, if any, other areas of the city have direct access to, and enjoy commute times that would be coveted by the residents of any new suburb in Calgary.

Though the readers of Fast Forward selected the communities in the category, it was the choice of the paper to publish the results; unfortunately, it is hardly a distinct viewpoint from that of Calgary’s other media outlets. While the influx of people arriving in the city brings many promising opportunities for the growth of culture, it seems clear that the socialization that occurs in Calgary is overtly insular. I applaud the winners of each of the poll’s categories, and know that many of the accolades are well-deserved, but feel that many wonderful stores, services and sections of the city receive no mention in the celebration of the highlights of Calgary.

The Best of Calgary 2008 is a collection of material that does little to further the notion that we as Calgarians are living in an increasingly transitory mode, individualizing and compartmentalizing our surroundings in order to gain separation from potentially genuine aspects of our life. Similar polls feature writers’ personal favourites they feel should be acknowledged — a curious omission from a paper on top of the pulse of the city. To declare the Best of Calgary a “reference for Calgary's inquisitive and outgoing citizens” is a shame, considering how much of this great city has never been included in it.

M. Graham,

Calgary

Editor’s note: Contrary to your complaint that we didn’t include “writers’ personal favourites” in our Best of Calgary issue, we did so. Our “critics picks” included best and worst critiques of provincial politics, city projects, local food, the cityscape, local music and booze.