Wednesday, 19 December 2007 @ 8:50pm.
With the widespread use of technology, particularly computers and the internet, the importance of local news sources may be questioned. I watched a debate on television the other day and found the arguments for the continued relevance of local news to be quite persuasive. It is great that many people have access to what is going on thousands of miles away from them, especially given the butterfly effect or six degrees of separation, but it’s also great and probably necessary to know what is happening close to home. I live in the lovely suburb of Sunshine where there are two main local newspapers. I have learned a lot about local politics, immigration, diversity, environmental matters, families, and consumerism from the papers. Even with my wireless internet and the world supposedly at my fingertips, it would be difficult to get the same information. Go figure.
‘Tis the holiday season… I wanted to mention that fun for the whole family can be had at the Chanukah in the City festival, which is held in Melbourne annually by the Jewish Community Council of Victoria. The free event usually takes place at Federation Square. I went to Chanukah in the City (also known as “Festival of Light”) in the late evening on December 11th and enjoyed seeing what is supposedly the largest gas burning Chanukiah in the Southern Hemisphere:
I went too late and didn’t get to enjoy the kosher food and drinks (I lament the fact that I didn’t get a bagel!) and carnival rides, but I did get to hear some music. One very interesting group I saw was the Jewish punk rock band Yidcore. They were funny and crazy, all with a good sound!
Though Christmas is around the corner, I have not seen as many house decorations outside as in the U.S. I must admit that it is odd not to see an abundance of reindeer ornaments on the lawns or colorful lights hanging from rooftops. Where are the snow people, candy canes, Santa images, stars, and red ribbons? There are a few decorated houses here and there, though, so that’s nice. I recently put up my Christmas tree inside and it’s looking very good if you ask me. It’s nothing fancy, but sometimes that’s the best kind, right? I even attempted a popcorn chain, but it’s kinda short as I gave up after a while because it was taking me ages to complete! The only thing missing right now is a big star for the top. I’m looking forward to attending midnight mass at the Catholic Church nearby. I’m not sure about plans for the 25th yet, though. With the recent hot weather, I just might spend it at the beach…who knows? I will be celebrating my first Boxing Day this year, too. I’ve heard that it’s a huge shopping day, as well as popular for sports like cricket.
