Editorial: Season for new hope

Santa.

"Do journalists have to tell the truth?" asked my 10-year-old daughter seemingly innocently as we were decorating the tree last weekend.

"Yes of course," I replied, "That is the number one thing they must always do."

"Does Santa really exist?"

I hesitated before replying.

"If you believe he does, then he does."

For those of you in any doubt, turn to page 5 where Ruth Keber interviews the man himself, as he prepares for his biggest night.

As we approach the end of the year, there is good reason to celebrate. In Saturday's Bay of Plenty Times Weekend, Natalie Dixon reported the Bay is currently a hotspot for jobs. On our front page today, latest spending figures indicate that despite the recent tough times, there is much to be hopeful for in the local economy.

Christmas is a time to remember that not everything hinges on the material. Not everyone will sink teeth into pineapples and strawberries tomorrow. Sandra Conchie reports on page 3 what is on offer for those who may be feeling less well off or isolated.

It makes me proud to be a part of a community that has shown itself to be caring. As reported in the Bay of Plenty Times Weekend, the Bay community has generously raised a record $75,265.45 at last count for the Tauranga Community Foodbank. The figure is still rising as the last donations are added up. Thank you. You have made Christmas a little happier for many Bay families.

For every celebration, there is also time to remember those for whom this Christmas may be difficult. We recently had a celebration for Bay of Plenty Times Person of the Year 2013 hero policeman Deane O'Connor, who saved the life of Maungatapu Bridge crash victim Ashley Donkersley. On my mind this Christmas is the family of Greg Woledge, the second victim of that crash who sadly did not survive. In my thoughts this Christmas are his partner and family.

Whatever your circumstances this Christmas may it be the best day it can for you tomorrow.

Christmas is a time of hope. There is a lot to be optimistic about in 2014. What an exciting year it promises to be.

Does Santa exist? If you believe he does, then he does.

On behalf of all the staff of Bay of Plenty Times we wish all our readers and advertisers a Merry Christmas.