As we greet the New Year, the year just past reminds us of how precious a gift our lives are. The sudden flood in Peterborough and the recent Tsunami disaster may be worlds apart, but they both are reminders of the might of nature. They also serve as reminders of how people rally to help when their neighbours are in trouble, even if those neighbours are half a world away.

The New Year is a time of hope for the future and a time to rededicate ourselves to important tasks whether they are personal or professional. I will continue to work at Queen’s Park and with our federal and municipal partners over the coming year to make sure that we continue to do the best we can for our communities.

I know that the past year has been a trying one for many of our farmers, but I am hopeful that the coming year will bring an open border for our beef exports to the U.S. I hope that the working committee will be able to develop a solution for the Frost Centre that allows for the continuation of their educational and stewardship programs. I hope that the government will recognize the difficulties faced by our hospitals, our seniors, our farmers, and our local businesses when they bring forward new legislation affecting our communities. I hope that we will be able to attract more doctors and other healthcare professionals to our area so that everyone will be able to access the healthcare that they need.

Most of all, I hope that you and your family have a safe and prosperous new year.

Please accept my invitation to attend my annual New Years Levee on Saturday January 8, 2005 at the Wigamog Inn Resort (North Kashagawigamog Rd.) from 2-4 or on Sunday January 9, 2005 at the Lindsay Inn (354 Lindsay St. South – Lindsay). Please bring a non-perishable food item for donation to local food banks. I look forward to seeing you there.