My new portfolio as Parliamentary Secretary for Accessibility has allowed me during the month of October to visit many Service Providers under the Community Living BC umbrella and celebrate with them Community Living Month.

The work being done by these agencies focusses on adults with developmental disabilities and connects them to meaningful employment where possible in addition to enhancing their lives in many other ways. I have been humbled by this experience and thankful to the many employers throughout this constituency and Province who have opened their doors to employing adults with developmental disabilities.

In October, we also recognize the many small businesses who are the backbone of all of Rural BC. Our wonderful communities would not exist we’re it not for the entrepreneurship and investment of individuals who chose to live and work in our area. In BC Small Business is big business, more than a third of the Provinces GDP and over half of all employees work for small business. It is important that we all support our local businesses and keep our communities alive and well.

This is also what is often referred to as ‘silly season’- local Election time. I want to thank all local politicians, regional directors and school boards who are stepping down for their service to their communities over the last 3 years. A mostly thankless job. I can assure all of you that no one puts their name on a ballot looking for fame and fortune.

The people I have had the privilege of working with all had one thing in common, the desire to serve their Communities and to make a positive difference in the future of their areas. They have to develop a ‘thick skin’ and try to separate their personal and professional lives. Congratulations to all of you who have put your name and face on the ballots for what will be a 4 year term of service.

The only disappointment is the apathy that is always evident at the polls and the poor turnouts that are the legacy of elections. Many individuals have given up their lives for a democracy that gives us all the right to vote without duress.

So please, get out and vote on November 15!!

Thank you to all of those who work in the Agricultural sector. Your hard work has resulted in the rest of us, once again, able to enjoy an amazing harvest time and celebrate it with many events throughout the region. Take a moment to thank these hard working individuals and visit one of the many fruit stands and wineries in our area before the regular season ends.

November 11th is also rapidly approaching. Wear a poppy and show your support for our local Legion associations and recognize our Veterans. They fought for our freedoms and many made the ultimate sacrifice with their lives. So thank you to all of our armed forces personnel past and present for their sacrifices making it possible so we all could live in peace and safety.

And finally as our weather starts to cool down – be safe and stay warm.

Linda.