The calendar might say that January is the start of the new year, but the fall sure feels a whole lot more like it.
The start of school is the one time that nearly all kids dread, even if they spent the entire summer complaining about how bored they were.
But with school starting up, motorists will have to exercise extra caution, as drivers will have to be a lot more mindful of the hundreds of Westlock youth walking the streets and the new traffic rules implemented by the town.
As part of the town’s new traffic bylaw, many school zones are now playground zones, meaning speed limits are in effect from one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset.
And the zones are also now in effect seven days a week, instead of Monday through Friday.
Besides the usual 30 km/h speed limit in school zones, motorists are reminded the speed limit on all residential roads in town is 40 km/h.
Highways 44 and 18, as well as non-residential roads, are not affected by the change.
Also, keep in mind the rules for passing a school bus. The biggest risk to school bus passengers comes not during traffic, but when the bus is actually loading and unloading passengers.
Passing a school bus with flashing red lights results in a hefty fine and demerit points, and if you’ve ever chatted with a bus driver, you would know this happens far more than it should.
But you know, just as fall is a time for added caution, it’s also an exciting time of the year, as hockey will be kicking off soon, and so will volleyball and football.
The end of summer also brings with it the start-up of many volunteer organizations and clubs. Many of these organizations will be on display during the town’s annual community showcase at the Rotary Spirit Centre on Sept. 9.
Over 40 organizations are expected to showcase what they have to offer this year including the cadets, Adult Learning Centre, Figure Skating Club, and Westlock Lacrosse.
It’s a great opportunity to see what the community has to offer. If you’re new to town, it’s a chance to learn if your favourite activity is offered here.
And if you’ve been around the community for a while, it’s your chance to sign up for that activity you’ve never had the chance to try.
Here’s to hoping your fall is a pleasant one.
