2026 Predictions, predicted on Nov 27, 2025

  Our Very Own Predictions For 2026

Predicted on Nov 27, 2025

Dona Maria 

Prime Minister Mark Carney will actually get a Majority after another Conservative will cross the floor after Pierre Poilievre no longer being a leader. 

 ********

 

Delayed Spring/Lingering Cold: Some forecasts for the preceding winter 2026 suggest that colder-than-normal temperatures, particularly for the Prairies, could linger well into March, potentially leading to a delayed start to spring in certain central and eastern regions.

 

 ********

First time ever, Canada Lotto Max will reach over  $100,000,000 jackpot this winter.  A group of people will win from Quebec. 

 

 ********

The biggest event for Canada in 2026 will be the FIFA World Cup 26™. Canada will co-host the tournament with the United States and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026. This event will bring a massive influx of international visitors, driving tourism, local consumption, and global visibility for the host cities. Host Cities: Toronto will host six matches, including Canada's first-ever men's World Cup game on Canadian soil. Vancouver will host seven matches. However, it will be Canada that will end up hosting all of the US games. 

 ********

Housing & Affordability: The government is pushing the "Build Canada Homes" initiative with major investments aimed at increasing housing construction significantly (targeting 500,000 homes per year). This target will actually be met if the builders can find more tradesmen.  This is where Doug Ford and other Provincial Ministers come in. 

 ********

Canadian Actress Pamela Anderson and Actor Liam Nelson will move in together and live in Pamela's hometown in British Columbia.

 ********

Former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, dating Katy Perry, is not as serious as it seems; both are in a rebound relationship...well, you all know how that relationship will end. 

 

******** 

What to invest in Canada! It's time for Penny Stock again. 

High-Growth Canadian Sectors to Watch in 2026

The Canadian economy in 2026 is expected to be influenced by global monetary policy, domestic focus on sovereignty, and the continued build-out of high-tech infrastructure. Penny stocks often try to capitalize on these macro themes:

1. Critical Minerals & Metals 

2. Information Technology and Digital Transformation. 

 3.  Renewable Energy and Infrastructure

 4.  Healthy Technology Med Tech.  

Let me know how this goes, and I will accept a nice donation to a local charity. 

 

 ********

 

 HEALTHY EATING, Lemon

Lemon everything from drinks to cakes to body lotion and decors will hit the mainstream to the highest level ever and it won't stop!!

******

TOP 15 TRAVEL DESTINATIONS in order

1. Italy 

2. Mediterranean Cruises

3. Canada (Canada-wide, focusing on the Prairies, Atlantic Canada, Yukon and Nunavut)

4. Mexico

5. Brazil and South American Cruise

6. Switzerland

7. Sweden

8. Germany

9. United Kingdom

10. Turkey

11. Egypt 

12. Australia

13. New Zealand

14. Malaysia

15. United Arab Emirates

******

As 2025 draws to a close and we prepare to welcome 2026, I want to take a moment to extend my warmest wishes to all of you—our loyal readers, viewers, and supporters of Alla Salute Canadian Magazine. This past year has been filled with creativity, discovery, and celebration of Canadian excellence, and none of it would have been possible without your continued engagement and encouragement.

The New Year is always a time of reflection and renewal. It invites us to look back on the milestones we’ve achieved together, whether through culinary storytelling, travel features, wellness insights, or the recognition of Canadian innovators, and to look forward with optimism to the opportunities that lie ahead. Your enthusiasm for our magazine and your passion for Canadian culture inspire us to keep raising the bar, delivering content that uplifts, informs, and connects communities across the country.

As we step into 2026, my wish for each of you is a year filled with joy, health, and prosperity. May this season of new beginnings bring you closer to your dreams, strengthen your bonds with family and friends, and offer moments of peace and inspiration. I also encourage everyone to celebrate responsibly, keeping safety and well-being at the heart of your festivities. A happy New Year is best enjoyed when it is also a safe one.

On behalf of Alla Salute Canadian Magazine, I thank you for being part of our journey. Your readership and viewership are the heartbeat of our work, and it is with immense gratitude that I look forward to another year of sharing stories that highlight the beauty, creativity, and excellence of Canada.

So here’s to 2026 a year of promise, of growth, and of continued celebration of all that makes our nation remarkable. From my heart to yours, I wish you a very Happy and Safe New Year 2026.

Will, Renata, Timothy, Serena, Tim, Clarissa and all of our guest writers, Roland, Donna, Samantha, Angela, Gina and Katherine. 

The Gentle Pause Thriving in the Window Between Holiday Rush and New Year's Resolution

 

The Gentle Pause: Thriving in the Window Between Holiday Rush and New Year's Resolution

 Angela Rosesen and Clarissa

As the last sparkle of holiday cheer fades and the final cookie crumbs settle, a rare and beautiful stillness begins to unfold. This quiet interlude—the gentle pause between the festive whirlwind and the fresh promise of a new year—is not merely a gap in the calendar. It is a sacred space, rich with possibility and ripe for renewal. Rather than rushing headlong into resolutions or surrendering to post-holiday fatigue, we are invited to treat this moment as a gift: a time to restore, reflect, and gently prepare for what’s next.

The holidays, with their joyful gatherings and glittering expectations, often leave us exhilarated but depleted. The pace, the planning, the pressure to create perfection—it all takes a toll. To begin a new year from a place of exhaustion is to risk burnout before the first month is through. Instead, this transitional window offers a chance to reclaim our energy, re-adjust our thoughts, and realign with what truly matters.

This is not a time for doing more—it is a time for undoing. Begin by easing into the process of winding down. Let go of the idea that everything must be tidied in a single day. Instead, approach the post-holiday reset with gentle intention. Take thirty minutes to lovingly store away decorations, one category at a time. Each ornament tucked away is a quiet affirmation that the season has been honoured, and now, space is being made for something new.

Just as we clear physical clutter, we can also release digital and emotional noise. Step back from screens for a day or two. Let your mind breathe. Review your finances not with guilt, but with grace. A simple, honest budget for the month ahead is not a punishment—it’s a promise to yourself, a way to step into the new year with clarity and control.

And then, return to your natural rhythms. The holidays often disrupt sleep, nutrition, and movement. Reintroduce nourishing foods, hydrate with intention, and gently re-establish a consistent sleep schedule. These small acts of care are not chores—they are gifts to your future self, restoring the foundation upon which your vitality rests.

Once your energy begins to return, the pause becomes a powerful space for reflection. This is not about judgment or regret—it’s about learning with kindness. Take a moment to write. Use a simple framework: What will you stop doing? What will you start? What will you continue? This exercise transforms vague intentions into meaningful insights. It’s a way to honour your growth, release what no longer serves you, and recommit to what brings joy and purpose.

Gratitude, too, has a place in this pause. The holidays may have been imperfect, but within them were moments of connection, laughter, and grace. Each day, jot down three things you’re thankful for. This gentle practice shifts your focus from what was missing to what was meaningful, creating a positive lens through which to view the year ahead.

As the new year approaches, resist the urge to leap into grand resolutions. Instead, plant seeds of intention. Let your goals be rooted in self-compassion and guided by values. An intention is not a demand; it’s a direction. It invites you to move through life with purpose, not pressure.

Take twenty minutes to sketch a simple Life Map for January. Choose one health habit to nurture, one skill to explore, one relationship to invest in. Schedule these small steps now, so that when the calendar turns, you are not scrambling; you are ready. Your path is already lit with gentle intention.

This quiet window between years is not empty—it is essential. It is a time to honour the past, restore the present, and prepare for the future with elegance and ease. Let it be a sanctuary, a soft landing, a place where you gather strength and clarity before stepping forward.

As you move into the new year, do so not with haste, but with grace. Let each step be intentional, each breath a renewal. The year ahead is waiting—not for perfection, but for presence. And you, restored and ready, are beautifully poised to meet it.

Holiday Bloopers In Ottawa, A Canadian Comedy of Errors

 

Holiday Bloopers in Ottawa: A Canadian Comedy of Errors  Roland Monteleone, Chef 

The Fancy Ottawa Restaurant Fiasco

I moved to Ottawa to complete a six-month trade carpenter apprenticeship during the holiday season a few years ago, before I left for London, England, then moved to Abruzzi and back to London (another story to be told). I should have known the holidays were off to a rocky start when I tried to look sophisticated at a high-end Ottawa restaurant. Picture me, dressed to the nines, trying to impress my table with my knowledge of wine pairings. The sommelier poured a glass of something so rare it probably had its own passport. I swirled it, sniffed it, and in true Canadian fashion promptly sneezed into the glass. The waiter’s horrified gasp echoed across the dining room like the Rideau Canal frozen ice cracking in spring.

But the pièce de résistance came later, during my holiday cooking demo. I was halfway through flambéing a crème brûlée when the smoke alarm decided it had had enough of my culinary theatrics. Seconds later, the sprinkler system erupted like Niagara Falls in March. Guests screamed, the kitchen flooded, and I stood there holding a blowtorch like a pyromaniac Santa. By the time the fire department arrived, I was ankle-deep in water, still insisting the dessert was “almost ready.”

And because Canada never disappoints, the bloopers kept coming. I once tried to carve a turkey while wearing mittens (don’t ask), slipped on black ice carrying a box of Timbits, and accidentally set off a snowblower in reverse, spraying my neighbour’s Christmas lights with a blizzard of slush. 

Another time I was on a "hot date," I was determined to play the part of the sophisticated diner once again. I adjusted my fake Gucci tie (which, by the way, was knitted by my aunt in Moose Jaw and looked more like a woolly boa constrictor than haute couture). The waiter approached me and spoke in French, I pulled out my translator, which ended up, for some reason, Siri responding, I'm sorry, Sir, but we cannot have s*x.

Again, during dinner, it spiralled from there. I ordered foie gras, which I thought was French for “fancy chicken.” Turns out it’s liver. I tried to cut it delicately, but the piece shot off my plate like a hockey puck and landed in the lap of a diplomat two tables over. He gave me a look that could freeze the Rideau Canal.

By dessert, I was so rattled I mistook crème brûlée for soup and tried to slurp it. The spoon clanged against the caramelized top like a cowbell. The entire restaurant turned to stare. I raised my glass and declared, “Happy holidays, everyone!”

The Cooking Demo Catastrophe

If the restaurant debacle wasn’t enough, my first holiday cooking demo after my carpenter-boring and failed apprenticeship sealed my fate as Canada’s clumsiest chef.

Picture this: a packed kitchen, cameras rolling, audience buzzing. I was halfway through flambéing a crème brûlée (yes, I gave it another shot, I’m nothing if not stubborn). I lit the blowtorch, leaned in dramatically, and suddenly my crème brûlée caught on fire;  the smoke alarm shrieked like a banshee.

Seconds later, the sprinkler system exploded. Water gushed from the ceiling like Niagara Falls in July. Guests screamed, cameramen scrambled, and I stood there holding a blowtorch like a pyromaniac Santa.

The fire department arrived to find me ankle-deep in water, still insisting the dessert was “almost ready.” One firefighter shook his head and muttered, “Buddy, you’re banned from propane until further notice.”

The footage went viral. My friends still send me memes of me in a chef’s hat, standing in a flood, captioned: Canada’s Next Top Disaster.

Canadian Winter Bloopers

Of course, no Canadian holiday season is complete without a winter mishap. The Hockey Rink Disaster: At a holiday shinny game, I tried to impress everyone with a slapshot. The puck ricocheted off the boards and nailed me square in the shin. I limped off the ice, declaring, “I meant to do that. It’s performance art.”

Tim Hortons Tales

No Canadian blooper reel is complete without Tim Hortons.

One holiday morning, I ordered a flavoured hazelnut double-double and promptly spilled it on my lap. I spent the rest of the day smelling like roasted hazelnut beans.

Another time, I tried to balance a tray of Timbits while opening the door. The tray flipped, and Timbits rained down like hailstones. A kid shouted, “It’s snowing donuts!” and dove to catch them.

Family Dinner Chaos

Ah, the family holiday dinner, we do not serve turkey in Italy, so when we visited Toronto, after getting married, my wife and our children decided to make turkey for the whole family at my mother's home. It was the ultimate Canadian test of patience and survival.

 I decided to carve the turkey with my mother's electric knife while wearing mittens. Don’t ask why. Maybe I thought it was festive. The result? Turkey shrapnel everywhere. My sister Angela ducked behind the mashed potatoes for cover.

Another year, I tried to make gravy from scratch. I must have had a male blond moment; I misread the recipe and added maple syrup instead of broth. The result was a sticky, sweet concoction that glued the stuffing together like culinary cement. My uncle declared it “the most Canadian gravy ever,” he said, and he used it to patch a hole in his shed.

And let’s not forget the time my niece hid candy canes in the mashed potatoes. Watching Nonna bite into one was like witnessing a live-action episode of Just for Laughs Gags.

Travel Troubles

Holiday travel in Canada is its own comedy routine.

I once boarded a VIA Rail train, minding my own business, when a nice lady came up with a large overstuffed tote bag, which burst open in the aisle. Out rolled pantyhose, lingerie and for reasons I still can’t figure out, a rubber pig. The conductor gave her a look that said, “Madame, this is not Cirque du Soleil.”

Another time, I flew into Calgary during a blizzard. My luggage ended up in Vancouver. I spent three days wandering around in cowboy boots, a parka, and swim trunks. Locals thought I was starting a new fashion trend.

Since the rise of the "Elbow Up" craze in Canada, everything feels serious, focused on resilience, wide pure Canadian love, and unity and yet the holiday is about finding joy amidst chaos. Whether it’s a snowblower that misbehaves or gravy that functions as glue, we accept the mess and consider it part of the festive spirit.

So "chin-chin and cheers", may my holiday bloopers keep us humble, keep us laughing, and remind us that the best memories are the ones that go hilariously wrong.

It is time for Mary Morganelli to Shine.

It's Time for Mary Morganelli to Shine

 

Can you share a bit about your background and what inspired you to pursue an art

career?

Mary began her journey as a Canadian artist when she landed in Toronto from her hometown in Ceprano, Italy, at age six. As a child immigrant in a strange place, far different from the small village she left behind, she struggled to feel at home with the culture and language of an unknown country. It was particularly challenging for her at school with no means to communicate with her teacher and other students, but with the indomitable spirit and relentless capacity to look beyond obstacles and see the bright side that defined her character and was mirrored in her art, Mary quickly mastered the English language with the help of her dedicated teacher. Mary’s love and passion for drawing and painting surfaced at an early age when she attended a grade nine art class. She later continued to nurture/develop her artistic expression by taking lessons through a correspondence art course. Soon afterwards, she married her high school sweetheart and hung her artist cap up for a while to channel her time and creative energy into her young family. In November 2010, Mary’s career as an artist returned to centre stage and began to flourish. Her first step was refreshing her talent by attending a grade 11/12 art course at Dr. Betty Stephenson Learning, which she completed with honours. She further committed to expanding her portfolio as she immersed herself in private lessons from an artist/ teacher. During this time, she produced many paintings, experimenting with different mediums. Mary currently has an art collection in a variety of subjects and mediums, which she shares with the world in Mariellart Gallery. Her paintings include portraits, landscapes, flowers, animals, birds, still life, children and more. All are incredibly detailed, whether it is painted in acrylic, oil, watercolour, charcoal, pastel or ink. Her career took off quickly, earning many compliments from a well-known artist and other artists, which Mary has come across in her life, while also capturing the hearts and imagination of those who have bought her paintings and commissioned her work. Often, the work of Mary's hands comes from the outpouring of her heart onto canvas. The storms of life have at times seized her with cold chills resulting from heavy losses and devastating challenges, including losing her child to a dreadful disease when he was barely 3 years old. Her determination to make something beautiful from the ashes is reflected in her art. Mary has been featured in newspapers and magazine articles for her Alzheimer’s painting “Forget Not,” which she was driven to paint due to the sorrow of watching her father suffer from the disease. The Alzheimer’s Society has also used this inspirational piece to bring awareness to this dreadful disease. In 2019, Mary was also awarded first prize in the acrylic category for her highly emotional painting “Out for the Evening”. In 2020, Mary was awarded an honorary mention for “King Farm,” in a plein-air competition. In the spring of 2022, a cover page and a full-page article in the Mosaic magazine featured Mary. 

Her artwork can be viewed at www.mariellart.com

Contact by email mary@mariellart.com.

What themes or messages do you aim to convey through your artwork?

Many of Mary's paintings tell you a story, offering glimpses of peace, serenity, relaxation, inspiration, meaning, and emotion, while some were just done for fun. In her everyday life and travels, Mary takes many photos and lets her imagination go into her artwork. The overall impression is one of profound calm, an invitation to breathe deeply and find solace, an intrinsic beauty that exists when the world is in perfect equilibrium.

How has your artistic style evolved over the years?

The most common way an art style evolves is by either building upon a previous style or rebelling against it. Artists will study the techniques and ideas of their predecessors, then perfect or expand upon them. Mary practices a new adventure as often as possible to develop new techniques.

What role does your Italian heritage play in your art?

As an artist with deep roots in Italian heritage, her adaptation strategy can be viewed as blending the enduring values of history with the dynamic tools of the future. Mary is one who respects history deeply enough to successfully push it forward. Her love of Italian painting is likely a profound connection that goes beyond mere admiration of a home, history, emotional, form of cultural autobiography, human experience and intellectual bond of her roots, where the canvases of the past illuminate her identity. Mary has visited Italy numerous times, and her explorations have developed into many Italian landscape artworks, bringing Italy home to Canada.

Can you describe your creative process? What does a typical day in your studio look

like?

Mary’s art pieces are vibrant and bold, strong, colour selection. These areas function like a deep, steady breath, allowing the viewer's eye to rest and absorb the surrounding energy without becoming overwhelmed. The extensive use of colour ensures the work feels alive, energized, and deeply expressive, inviting viewers into an emotional landscape that is anything but passive. When Mary is in her studio (her world), the hours outside the studio cease to exist. Time becomes elastic, either speeding up intensely as you work or slowing down to the pace of a single brushstroke.  She loses consciousness of the past or future; only the present moment of creation holds weight. Mary listens to the soundscape of her image; she lives inside the composition, it’s a temporary alternate reality. The artist's latest artwork was displayed at an event. Will be inserted here.

What upcoming projects or exhibitions are you currently working on?

Preparing for the March 2026 Motorama Custom Car & Motorsports Expo at the International Center in Mississauga, she brings an unparalleled focus to reflective surfaces in her vehicle paintings. The result is a portrait of a classical vehicle like no other, a vibrant, soulful tribute to automotive design and engineering. Currently working on new samples to bring to the massive car show.

How do you see the art world changing in the next few years, and how do you plan to adapt to those changes?

That is a challenge for every artist today. The art world is shifting rapidly, driven by technology, social change, and market demands. The biggest change is the rise of digital tools. Painting, as a medium, faces unique challenges in a world dominated by fast-moving digital media and conceptual art. The solution is not to abandon painting, but to redefine its relevance by embracing new materials, new narratives, and new forms of promotion. Mary’s art pieces consistently portray the meaning of peace; they are not just decorative; they are meditations, invitations, and affirmations of a profound human desire.

 Are there any new techniques or media you are excited to explore in your future work?

The world of art techniques is vast, encompassing thousands of specialized methods, and she is always ready for a new challenge. Every time she picks up a brush, she challenges herself to something new. Each new medium feels like a foreign language; you study its grammar (how a pigment mixes, how a tool cuts, how a surface absorbs) and its vocabulary (the unique texture, scent, and weight). Mary’s studio is filled with the texture of strange papers, canvases and the distinct sound of tools that are used awkwardly for the first time.

What advice would you give to aspiring artists who look up to you?

Your skill and unique voice are your ultimate product. Never stop developing them. The temptation to compare your progress to others is constant. Stay true to your vision. Focus on making work that is meaningful to you and finding an audience that genuinely connects with it. Success is often built over years, not months.

How can your audience and fans support you in your future endeavors?

Painting is a truly captivating endeavor, one that offers a unique blend of technical challenge and profound aesthetic reward. Mary’s audience can support her with referrals looking to spurs up their home or office. She offers beautiful pieces of art, with colours that light up your room with peace and joy. Her desire is for her art to touch lives, bring a smile to their face and beauty to their eyes. She aims to share the gift she was given to become a gift for others.

The Art of a Perfect Pizza

 

The Art of Perfect Pizza

 Pizzaiolo Roland Monteleone   FB: Roland Monteleone

1. Roland, what inspired your love for pizza making?

Roland: I grew up in a home where cooking was the center of family life in Abruzzi, and then we moved to Toronto, Canada. Pizza was our Friday night ritual, and everyone added their own toppings, and I loved the creativity of it. Over time, I realized pizza isn’t just food, it’s a way to bring people together.

2. What makes your pizza style unique?

Roland: I focus on balancing thin, crispy crusts with light, fresh toppings. I use a blend of Italian and local Canadian ingredients if I am back home, like Ontario tomatoes, fresh basil, and artisan cheese. It’s about simplicity done right.

3. Do you prefer traditional or experimental pizza combinations?

Roland: Both! I love the classics like Margherita or Quattro Formaggi, but I’m also known to experiment. One of my favourites is roasted pear with prosciutto and gorgonzola. It’s unexpected, but it works.

4. What’s your secret to a perfect pizza crust?

Roland: Time and patience. I let my dough ferment for at least 24 hours. It develops flavor and gives that beautiful airy texture. And always use a pizza stone or steel, it makes all the difference.

5. Any advice for home cooks intimidated by pizza dough?

Roland: Don’t overthink it. Start with a basic recipe and good flour, 00 flour if you can find it. Let the dough rest and don’t rush it. Pizza dough should be soft and relaxed, not forced.

]6. What are your must-have toppings?

Roland: Fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, and a drizzle of olive oil. I also love adding roasted garlic or a touch of chilli flakes for depth.

7. Do you have a favourite memory related to pizza?

Roland: Definitely making pizza with my kids. They get flour everywhere, but their excitement reminds me why I started it’s about joy and connection.

8. What advice would you give to young chefs starting out?

Roland: Stay curious. Don’t chase trends; learn the fundamentals first. Once you understand balance, texture, and flavour, you can make magic with simple ingredients.

Roland’s Signature Rustic Margherita Pizza

Ingredients:

• 2 cups (250 g) 00 flour or all-purpose flour

• ¾ cup (180 ml) warm water

• 1 tsp yeast

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• ½ cup tomato passata or crushed tomatoes

• 1 clove roasted garlic, mashed

• 125 g fresh mozzarella, sliced

• Fresh basil leaves

• Olive oil for drizzling

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and olive oil. Add flour and salt; knead until smooth (about 8 minutes).

2. Cover and let rise for 24 hours in the fridge or at least 3 hours at room temperature.

3. Preheat oven to 475°F (245°C) with a pizza stone inside.

4. Roll out the dough thinly, spread tomato passata mixed with garlic, and top with mozzarella and basil.

5. Bake: 7–9 minutes until the crust is golden, and the cheese is bubbly.

6. Drizzle with olive oil and serve hot!

The Crown Jewel of Holiday Shopping Inside the Ontario Made Artisan Market at Queen's Park

   

The Crown Jewel of Holiday Shopping Inside the Ontario Made Artisan Market at Queen’s Park  Timothy Watson 

If you ever needed proof that magic can happen when history, creativity, and community collide, stepping inside Queen’s Park this November 22 was all the evidence you needed. For a few unforgettable hours, the iconic Legislative Building, typically a hub for debates and political life, was transformed into a Christmas wonderland, a real spectacular, dazzling, joyful, and utterly unique Ontario Made Holiday Artisan Market. In fact, it was like stepping back in time; all they needed was carolers singing once in a while, even though they had beautiful festive music playing in the background, it was enchanting. 

This event was not merely a gathering; it was a moment, a movement, and a masterpiece showcasing the finest of Ontario craftsmanship and community spirit. A heartfelt thank you is owed to the Speaker of the House, Madame Donna Skelly whose gracious support made this spectacular event possible. The incredible staff, every greeter, coordinator, and behind-the-scenes organizer, worked tirelessly to infuse warmth, beauty, and holiday magic into these historic halls. Ontario truly owes them a standing ovation. 

The market was not just a shopping experience; it was the crown jewel of holiday shopping in Ontario.

As you entered the Legislative Building during the market, it felt like stepping into a beautifully scripted Christmas movie scene. The grand staircase, the stone arches, echoing corridors, and intricate wood carvings, already impressive on any normal day, were elevated to new heights by the vibrant colors and life brought in by vendors from every corner of Ontario. Queen’s Park, one of the most recognizable buildings in Canada, became something almost enchanted for this event.

Laughter drifted through the hallways, families clustered around handmade ornaments, and tourists snapped photos of towering Christmas wreaths framed by the building’s century-old architecture. Political leaders engaged with artisans about beeswax, wool, maple syrup, leatherwork, and Indigenous beadwork. It felt as though history and modern creativity were holding hands for an entire weekend, resulting in a completely unforgettable experience.

The atmosphere was electric, filled with the enticing aroma of roasted maple nuts and the glimmer of crystal jewelry catching the light. The soft hum of conversations between makers and shoppers created a warm ambiance. This was not a chaotic bazaar or a typical craft fair; it was a curated, thoughtful, and spacious celebration of community and creativity. Witnessing families, tourists, Members of Provincial Parliament, seniors, students, and wide-eyed children discovering the magic of Ontario-made products was incredibly uplifting.

                                                           http://www.blackbirdpottery.com

Ontario’s artisans showcased their absolute best, and the selection was nothing short of spectacular. Each table felt like its own little universe, complete with a story, a purpose, and a person behind it who poured their love into every item.

The market offered a delightful array of gourmet delights, from maple butter that melted on your tongue to artisanal cheese spreads and beautifully packaged coffee roasted right in the province. Indigenous artists shared breathtaking beadwork, carvings, and prints, while local designers showcased bold, modern works that infused a fresh pulse into the historic halls. Sustainable clothing, eco-friendly skincare, handcrafted soaps, and wellness goods were also on display, items that not only looked good but made you feel good. Shoppers who came in for a single ornament often left with bags full of wreaths, table toppers, cards, and handcrafted holiday décor that simply cannot be found in big-box stores.

The blend of tradition and innovation was perfect, reflecting Ontario’s diversity and a shared love for locally made excellence.

http://www.herpsinc.com

One of the most meaningful aspects of the day for me, was the presentation of the Alla Salute Canadian Magazine Award of Excellence, which recognized a few artisans and organizers who made this event extraordinary. This wasn't planned; it just happened that the award winners who were voted last September by Alla Salute readers, FB and IG pages just happened to be vendors at this extraordinary event. It was a moment filled with heartfelt gratitude, emotion, and pride. The organizers were celebrated for their stunning vision, meticulous planning, and their ability to transform a government building into a festive public space filled with joy. Their strong commitment to supporting Ontario’s creative economy was evident, and they truly transformed Queen’s Park into an arts and culture showcase that should become an annual tradition.   

Chef Gina Cianfarani presented the Alla Salute Canadian Magazine Award to Deborah LaMantia, Director of the Parliamentary Protocol and Public Relations Branch at the Legislative Assembly of Ontario, alongside Sous Chef Nancy Castro.

A few of their vendors, who are the award winners of Alla Salute Canadian Magazine Awards, were honored for their craftsmanship, creativity, cultural significance, and innovation. They were not merely sellers; they were ambassadors of what makes this province special. The ceremony felt like a warm embrace, a reminder that creativity deserves celebration at the highest levels of public life.

                                                    http://www.flightsoffancyhbc.com

Beyond the decorations and beautifully wrapped packages, this market held deeper significance for Ontario. Many small businesses rely heavily on holiday sales, and this market provided them with unmatched exposure. Buyers were not just picking up gifts; they were supporting families, dreamers, and entrepreneurs. The diversity of vendors created a gallery of Ontario’s identity, showcasing everything from Indigenous traditions to modern design.

                                                         http://www.cultureshockbeadsco.com

In essence, the Ontario Made Holiday Artisan Market at Queen’s Park was more than just a shopping event; it was a celebration of community, creativity, and the rich tapestry of Ontario’s cultural heritage. It was a reminder of the power of local artisans and the importance of supporting one another during the holiday season and beyond.  Now, if only two events like this were held at Queens Park in the Spring and Holiday season. 

Finding Calm and Joy This Holiday Season

By Angela Rosen

A Season That Shines Brighter Than the Headlines

Sometimes the world feels noisier than we’d like. Grown-ups whisper about the news, headlines flash across phones, and friends talk about things that sound confusing or even scary. And during Christmas break, when school is closed and the days feel quieter, you might notice those worries a little more.

But here’s the truth:
Even if the world outside feels busy or uncertain, you can still find calm, courage, and joy inside your home and your heart.
The holidays are filled with traditions and moments that matter much more than anything on a screen. 

The Power of Small Joys

Think about the things that made you happiest at Christmas. 

Decorating the tree and making handmade Christmas decorations.

Baking cookies

Playing in the snow

Watching holiday movies

Listening to music with your family

These small joys are powerful reminders that your world is safe, warm, and filled with love.

Talking About Worries

If worries creep in, don’t hide them.
Talk to someone you trust a parent, grandparent, guardian, or older sibling.
Fears grow bigger when they stay inside your head.
But when you speak them out loud, they shrink.

The people who love you can help you understand what’s happening and remind you that you’re cared for and protected.

Easy Calm-Down Tools for Kids

Flower & Candle Breathing

• Pretend you’re smelling a flower, slow breath in.

• Pretend you’re blowing out a candle, slow breath.
  Repeat a few times and feel your body soften.

Move Your Body

• Dance to holiday music

• Build a snow fort and snowball fight.

• Stretch like a superhero
  Movement replaces worry with strength.

“Love is always stronger than fear.”
Families, friends, and communities work hard to keep one another safe.
Even when the world seems confusing, helpers are always out there bringing hope.

 Holiday Feature: The Joy Jar Challenge

A fun, simple activity to bring happiness to your holiday break.

Step One: Create Your Joy Jar

Use an empty jar, decorated box, or festive bag.
Each day, write down one thing that made you smile—
Hot chocolate, a snowball fight, a bedtime story, a warm hug.

Slip the note inside.

Step Two: Share the Joy

On New Year’s Eve, open the jar with your family.
Read each note together and look back on all the good moments you created.

Extra Festive Tip:
Cut small slips of paper shaped like stars, snowflakes, or ornaments.

Creative Corner: Mini Story Exercise

Turning Fear Into Courage

Choose one of the prompts below or create your own and write a short story about discovering your inner light and bravery.

Story Starters:
• One snowy night, I discovered a glowing star in my window. It whispered courage to me…
• The Christmas tree lights flickered, and suddenly they became a magical shield that kept my family safe.
• I opened a snow globe and inside was a tiny world where helpers were always ready to protect us…
• The laughter of my family filled the room, and I realized it was the strongest light of all…

Let your imagination guide you.

“I know the world can be noisy, but our home is quiet and safe. Christmas is still about joy.”

 

The Wild Grill TV Show - Canada's Best Canadian Wild Games TV series....

 

The Wild Grill Igniting Canadian Culinary Television

When The Wild Grill first aired, it was clear that Canadian culinary television had found a bold new voice. Created, written, and produced by Simon Hutchings, with the dynamic Lindsay Lester as hostess, the series quickly captured audiences with its unique blend of rugged authenticity and refined culinary storytelling. Today, the show boasts over 1.3 million viewers, a remarkable achievement that underscores its resonance with Canadians coast to coast. This fresh approach has now been recognized with the Alla Salute Canadian Magazine Award of Excellence for Best New TV Series, a distinction that cements the show’s place as one of the most exciting additions to Canada’s cultural landscape.

At its heart, The Wild Grill is a celebration of fire, flavor, and tradition. Each episode takes viewers outdoors, where wild game is prepared over open flames against the backdrop of Canada’s breathtaking landscapes. Hutchings, a seasoned television producer with more than three decades of experience across networks such as Discovery Channel, TSN, OLN, and the World Fishing Network, brings a masterful eye to the production. His vision ensures that the series is not just about cooking—it is about storytelling, heritage, and the connection between Canadians and the land they inhabit.

The show’s concept is deceptively simple yet profoundly resonant: explore the culinary possibilities of wild proteins, from salmon and trout to moose, bear, duck, goose, and even more adventurous options like crocodile or buffalo. Each recipe is presented with both technical precision and cultural context, reminding viewers that food is never just sustenance—it is history, identity, and community. Importantly, the recipes are adaptable, allowing home cooks to substitute familiar proteins such as beef, pork, or turkey, making the show accessible to a wide audience while still honoring its wild roots.

While Hutchings provides the creative vision and production expertise, it is Lindsay Lester who gives the show its warmth and relatability. As hostess, Lester guides viewers through each recipe with charisma and genuine enthusiasm. Her presence is approachable yet authoritative, making even the most complex dishes feel achievable. In a genre often dominated by male hosts, Lester’s role is particularly significant, broadening the show’s appeal and challenging stereotypes about who belongs in the world of outdoor cooking. Her passion for wild game cuisine feels authentic, and her ability to connect with audiences transforms The Wild Grill from a cooking program into a shared experience.

The episodes themselves are as diverse as Canada’s culinary landscape. In “Colours of the Woods,” autumn flavors are paired with wild proteins to create a feast that mirrors the vibrancy of the season. “This Bear Heads South of the Border” takes a daring approach to bear meat, infusing it with international influences. “The Waters Hold Rainbows Too” pays tribute to Canada’s rivers with rainbow trout grilled to perfection, while “Oh Deer, Is That Venison Lasagna Soup?” offers a playful twist on traditional venison dishes. Perhaps most iconic is “The King of the West Coast Rivers,” which highlights salmon, a cornerstone of Canadian cuisine and culture. While the Apple Pie Pizza is a winner with  Alla Salute award-winning food brand, CuGinas Flavors Apple Pie Jam. Each episode is a testament to the show’s creativity, respect for biodiversity, and commitment to culinary excellence.

Winning the Alla Salute Canadian Magazine Award of Excellence is no small feat. The award recognizes innovation, cultural impact, and editorial integrity—qualities that The Wild Grill embodies in abundance. Its innovation lies in introducing audiences to wild game cooking in a format that is both educational and entertaining. Its cultural impact is evident in the way it showcases Canadian landscapes, traditions, and proteins, strengthening national identity through food. And its editorial integrity shines in the accuracy of its recipes, the respect for food safety, and the adaptability offered to diverse audiences.

Beyond its culinary achievements, The Wild Grill TV carries broader cultural significance. It encourages sustainability by promoting responsible hunting and fishing practices. It revives heritage by reconnecting modern Canadians with traditional cooking methods that echo the practices of their ancestors. And it fosters community by inspiring families and friends to gather around the grill, reinforcing the social bonds that food has always nurtured.

Critics and audiences alike have praised the show for its originality and emotional resonance. Unlike formulaic studio-bound cooking programs, The Wild Grill TV feels alive. Its outdoor settings, unpredictable elements, and genuine passion distinguish it from anything else on Canadian television. The award recognition amplifies this reception, positioning the series as a benchmark for future culinary programming in Canada.

Ultimately, The Wild Grill is more than a television series—it is a cultural movement. By blending Simon Hutchings’ production mastery with Lindsay Lester’s engaging presence, the show elevates wild game cooking into a national celebration. With over 1.3 million viewers already tuning in, its impact is undeniable. Winning the Alla Salute Canadian Magazine Award of Excellence for Best New TV Series is not just a milestone; it is a promise of what lies ahead. As audiences continue to embrace the show, one thing is certain: The Wild Grill has ignited a flame that will keep burning, inspiring Canadians to cook, connect, and celebrate their heritage around the grill.

We Are Going Nuts for Jewels Under the Kilt!

Jewels Under the Kilt

Exclusive Interview with Elisabeth Burrow

Owner Founder of Jewels Under the Kilt

Recipient of the 2025 Alla Salute Award of Excellence

Introduction by Alla Salute

At Alla Salute Magazine, we celebrate Canadian innovators who bring passion, creativity, and

excellence to everything they do. This year, we are proud to honor Elisabeth Burrow, the

visionary founder of Jewels Under the Kilt. Known for her artisanal nut products that combine

bold flavors with a commitment to quality, Elizabeth has carved out a unique place in Canada’s

culinary landscape. In this exclusive interview, she shares the story behind her company, what

winning this award means to her, and what’s next for Jewels Under the Kilt.

Elizabeth, congratulations on winning the Alla Salute Award of Excellence! How does it feel

to receive this recognition? 

Thank you so much. I am extremely humbled by this award. It came as such a surprise. I'm proud of my team for helping me make these nuts.

Can you tell us the story of how Jewels Under the Kilt began? What inspired you to start the

company? 

The beginning started from a jar of dark maple syrup. My Husband’s Family had a

sugar bush, and we would get jars of Dark maple syrup. I really didn’t know what I was going to

do with it, because my husband and I, along with our daughter, didn’t eat anything with syrup. I

did it with a lot of nuts that is got from Bulk Barn or bulk from grocery stores, but they never tasted

good, and the alternative ones were just not healthy enough for me. So by sheer luck, I created a

patented process that uses the syrup as a preservative and not a sweetener. I never could make

nuts for one person, so I’d make a ton of nuts and eventually started selling them, and then we

started growing them and my dream of creating a sustainable life for our disabled daughter was

born.

The name is so unique! How did you come up with “Jewels Under the Kilt,” and what does

it represent to you? 

The name of the company came about because my partner ( Husband ) was joking

with me while I was trying to register a name for our business. As soon as he said it, I knew it

was the one. I registered it right away. To me, the name is fun, and that’s what our company is all

about. Having fun and making great nuts.

Starting a food business is no small task. What were some of the biggest challenges you

face in the early days, and how did you overcome them? 

I have faced many challenges, the first was a push back on the name of the company from one of the larger vendors. I was so upset and saddened by this that I almost went and made the change. We actually created a whole new name and design. I am really glad. That I changed my mind and decided to stay with Jewels under the kilt. We have created a very strong brand that represents my daughter and the life we are building for her.  Another difficulty is staffing. As we grew the company, we needed people to fill positions. This can be hard since the farm is out of town and people need to drive to the job site. We had to change the way we hire in order to have staff retention and diversity.

Also funding for my little company to grow. The funding never seemed to come my way. So this

hardship turned into a good thing. We grew at a manageable rate.

Your products stand out for their quality and flavor. What’s your creative process for

developing new varieties? 

They are processed through my brain. I work the recipe through my head for a while. Sometimes it takes a while to work it out to get the results in looking for. Then we just roast my vision and see if it turns out the way I was thinking. People think. I am part magician, part scientist.

Winning this award is a huge milestone. What impact do you think it will have on your

company and on your own journey as an entrepreneur? 

Well, for me and the team, we are very humbled by this award. I think it will reinforce the beauty of being an inclusive company and working with your employees rather than working above them.

Looking ahead, what are your plans for Jewels Under the Kilt? Are there new products? 

markets, or collaborations on the horizon? 

I have a couple of innovations in the works. One is an international line using sauces from different countries and adding a modern twist. 

Thanks, Elizabeth, for keeping it going! We love Jewels Under the Kilt Artisan Nuts.  Where to buy:

https://www.jewelsunderthekilt.com/where-to-buy