Newspaper Article
For Release December 20, 2006

This is the time of year where timeless traditions become alive again. Families gathering for dinners, Christmas carols and decorations all bring to us the excitement of the season.

There are many things about Christmas that make it a very special time. Most of us are fortunate enough to spend time visiting with family and friends and travelling. We can also look forward to the end of a busy time of shopping for gifts, attending Christmas concerts, work parties and other seasonal events.

I am very fortunate to represent the most beautiful and scenic riding in Ontario, but also am proud to represent so many hardworking people and families who are committed to providing the best for their communities.

Volunteers also are what bring alive the spirit of Christmas for children and families who otherwise would not have a reason to celebrate. Toy Drives, Santa Claus Parades and Food Banks are just some of the great work, provided by our volunteers, young and old, in order to help bring happiness into people’s lives and to spread the Christmas Spirit to all.

In spite of the busy-ness and the rush of the season, Christmas represents so much of what is good about humanity. The sprit of family and friendship, the sprit of giving, along with the aspirations of hope and the desire to make the coming year the best it can be.

The Christmas season is in many ways symbolic of goodwill for all. If there is any place where the fundamental principles of freedom and affirmation of our diversity should be abundantly evident, it is in this great province of Ontario and in Canada.

I wish all of you the joy and hope of this Christmas season. Please have a safe and happy holiday, and a wonderful new year in 2007.
It is a pleasure to invite you to attend one of my annual New Year’s Levee’s:

As in past years, please bring a non-perishable food item to be donated to local food banks. I look forward to seeing many of you there.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from my family to yours.

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