On the eve of the International Year of Astronomy welcome to a REAL (Canadian) Winter Solstice issue of E-Cassiopeia. For the first time since 1971 all Canadian readers will also be treated to a White Christmas! In addition to the many regular and informative articles, special mention needs to be made of the Feature Article A New Major Optical Observatory in Canada by Frank P. Roy and Paul Wiegert as well as the CASCA Board's announcement of The Peter G. Martin Award. In addition you will updates on recent IYA activities as well as a feature by Jaymie Matthews on recent initiatives with MOST.

As always many thanks to the numerous faithful contributors and to Ros Hanes for taking charge of mounting the issue on the national server. Merry Christmas season and very best wishes for the new year!

Brian Martin (brian.martin@kingsu.ca)