The festive season of Christmas has concluded, and our attention now shifts to New Year’s Eve, marking the commencement of a new year. I trust your celebrations were enjoyable, and you received the anticipated gifts. Regrettably, the gift of peace on earth eluded us all. The implementation of gun control laws continues to remain elusive, not arriving as swiftly as we had hoped. Additionally, even the Pope’s appeal for peace in Syria remains uncertain. However, the sales have commenced, and shoppers are eagerly snatching up everything offered at half-price. Already, we have bid farewell to the goodwill of Christmas, as greed begins to infiltrate our thoughts and actions. Conflicts involving pirates and refugees, turmoil in Afghanistan, and bombings in Iraq loom ahead in the next year. I appreciated the celebrity video advocating against gun violence, and I sincerely hope its message resonates widely. Our police forces will face a busy period as they work to manage the revelers celebrating the arrival of the New Year. Please be mindful of them and all other merry-makers by moderating your alcohol consumption. Wishing everyone a safe holiday season and a Happy New Year to all our readers. Reflecting on 2012 brings back fond memories of the Olympics and the Para-Olympics. The retirement of Ricky Ponting serves as a reminder that even the finest must step away. This year has witnessed its share of catastrophic events, including storms, floods, earthquakes, shootings, bombings, and even the unfortunate incident involving Prince Harry and his trousers. We have bid farewell to several great talents in the entertainment industry, but one, in particular, resonates with me: a ‘should have’ been multi-Oscar-winning actor whose life was cut short by excessive acclaim and indulgence. Yes, we said goodbye to Koko, the star of Red Dog. Diagnosed with heart disease in 2012, Koko ultimately succumbed to the condition. At just 7 years old, Koko passed away peacefully in Perth. See you all in 2013. by Tommy Taylor