Hamilton area: "This is a record breaking year of positive growth for the Golden Horseshoe area. The Lister Block is going down, making way for a new, spectacular multipurpose complex. Mayor Fred Eisenberger is up to the political test and passes beautifully with flying colours. I don't see a toll on the Red Hill Parkway, but look for it with in the next five years. On a sad note, the loss of a major Hamilton icon in January and another in June - both are men. There will be three huge Lotto winners in Hamilton and surrounding area. One is a group. Boris Brott is bringing a big name to Hamilton. People will be running out to buy tickets."

Federal Politics: "Expect a spring election announcement. More promises from both sides are coming true. It's going to be a real neck-and-neck race. It will be unbeleiveable how many political promises fall into place this year. Canadians will be generally very pleased."

Native Issue: "Look for a settlement of sorts in the Native dispute in Caledonia."

Loonie/energy: "It will be the highest ever in an "M" month this year but then will level out. Gas prices are soaring at record highs, then by summer they will be under a$1 a litre."

Weather: "An up-and-down winter, mostly warm with an early spring to look forward to. Watch out for the caterpillar infestation this summer.

McMaster University: Major medical breakthroughs from research teams in cancer and diabetes.

Hamilton Hollywood: "A very busy spectacular summer of celebrity sightings is ahead as more movies are produced in Little Hollywood. Movie money will flow to the Hamilton area. And another big break for Hamiltonian Brian Melo as he continues to shine."

Ticats: "I'm keeping my fingers crossed. I see a big victory party from them. It would be great if it was in 2008."