With every passing year, the events of the First and Second World Wars become ever more distant parts of our country's history. Remembrance requires work, and any excuse to think about or discuss these conflicts and the sacrifices of Canadian veterans helps keep their memories alive.

In this context, three southwest Calgary neighbourhoods that wear their military history on their sleeve are especially significant.

Calgary's 12 business improvement areas (BIAs) represent 20 per cent of city businesses, with over $600 million in assessed property/business value, and $59 million in taxes. They go to bat for almost 5,500 businesses each day.

And while traditionally formed in and around Calgary's core, Iris Li, the City of Calgary's neighbourhood partnership co-ordinator, says four new BIAs are being considered across the city, including in suburban areas.