Welcome back! It’s a new issue at the start of a new year. Our focus this month is “Sights and Sounds,” highlighting the incredible visual art and music that can be found in McCauley and Boyle Street. It’s no secret to anyone who knows the area that there is a lot of talent in these neighbourhoods.

We also have our usual collection of news and event coverage, as well as views from our various columnists. This year also marks the fact that we are one year away from the paper’s 40th anniversary. We’re still interested in hearing about your favourite stories from the past four decades. Our complete archive can be found online at our website: bmcnews.org.

Don’t forget that we’re also active on social media. Our Facebook and Twitter are bmcnews and our "Instagram":https://www.instagram.com/bmcviews is bmcviews. Follow us for current announcements and extras.

If you are inspired to write or take pictures, we’re always looking for contributors from the area. Contact me at editor@bmcnews.org to discuss your ideas.