 
Welcome to our winter issue!
First of all, I would like to thank Honourable Kathleen Wynne, Minister of Education, MPP Don Valley West, for inviting us at her constituency office on November 24. It was a privilege to have met her, as well as the other representatives from various local and ethnic media organizations. It was indeed a fruitful reception that was set in a casual atmosphere. Despite the chilly weather outside, I personally felt the warmth welcome of her honour. The reception was generally more like a ‘get-to-know you better’ for all attendees. Of course, she spoke about her platform as Minister of Education, but more so to acknowledge our importance as media members in strengthening our society by being the voice of our communities. Truthfully enough, as GTA This Month focuses on diversity and multi-culturalism, our slogan is: Your Community Magazine in the heart of the GTA.
Officially, winter will only start on December 22. However, as this is Canada, weather is behaving like it should. Our first drops of snow came early this year and the temperature immediately dropped with wind chill. As Canadians, when we see snow outside our windows, we instantaneously feel the spirit of Christmas. Despite the nasty weather and the hassle that comes with it, GTA This month enjoyed the full coverage of what is going on in the city and beyond.
The city will soon be covered with white stuff and this will guarantee a white Christmas. Although it is bitterly cold outside and everyone is dressed up like Eskimo, surely, this is still the most wonderful time of the year for it isn’t complete for the Canadians to celebrate Christmas without snow. So, hop in and we will celebrate - the Torontonian’s way.
Canada is a concoction of different cultures and every family has its own unique Christmas traditions. Apparently, we joyously celebrate the season with acceptance of different ethnicity as demonstrated by the Canadians during the Santa Claus Parade. It's a great festive occasion with carollers from England, marching bands from the Philippines, floats adorned with ornaments from China, Christmas trees from Germany, and our very own Santa Claus from the North Pole.
As we draw closer to Christmas, most houses and streets in T.O. are now decorated with Christmas trees, wreaths and lots of coloured lights. The sound of carols and Christmas songs can be heard everywhere, especially in the malls and shopping complex. GTA This Month captured the festive city lights of Toronto, which I am sure you will all enjoy much as we did.
For our winter sports fanatic readers and adventurers, if you are planning for some outdoor activities that rely on snow, don’t miss “Beyond GTA”. The article will give you some tips on planning your winter holiday in Ontario’s resort region on a two and a half hour drive - Haliburton Highlands, where you will experience skating on glass smooth frozen lakes, ski or snowmobile on an adequate base of snow. There are truly ‘a-must-see” amazing winter landscape and places beyond the Greater Toronto Area like Niagara Falls and Collingwood. Enjoy the ride, experience the crisp clear days of winter, and feel the fluffy white stuff on your skin. I am personally not a winter person but I love the feel of fresh drop of snow dumping on my cheeks.
Let us keep in mind what Christmas is all about. As our young writer has mentioned, “this Christian holiday is to remind us of the birth of Jesus". Let us embrace the true spirit of the season by giving and forgiving”.
So, while Jack Frost is nipping at our nose, remember that this is the season of happiness and delight, not only on the glittering Christmas decors but also in believing in the magic of the winter air. Whatever way you want to celebrate Christmas, remember its significance – the love we have for each other. It is certainly about creating memories of each other that sure to last a lifetime, be it with your family, special someone or friends.
Let the beauty of all cultures shine through.
Until next year!
Criss Papa-Nañola
Editor |
