January is Alzheimer Awareness Month. Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias are degenerative brain disorders that affect more than 70,000 British Columbians, nearly 10,000 of which are under the age of 65. Alzheimer’s disease not only affects the individual but their families as well. It can be a devastating experience to see a loved one begin to face memory loss.
It’s hard to believe that the holiday season is here. So with that – I’d like to invite you to my Christmas Open House, December 4th from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at #120 – 5455 152nd Street. It’s a great opportunity to say Merry Christmas, Joyeux Noel, Happy Hanukkah or frankly just Hello! Please RSVP to 604-574-5662 or by return email.
Crime prevention leaders come from all walks of life and from communities big and small. November 1 to 7 is Crime Prevention Week, which gives us an opportunity to honour our local heroes and to learn how everyone can get involved and help make their community a safer place.
Our government has declared October 12, 2012, Smoke Alarm Awareness Day. Justice Minister and Attorney General Shirley Bond presented the proclamation to firefighters and health professionals at the Canadian Injury Action Forum. The goal is to raise awareness about fire safety and encourage all British Columbians to take responsibility and proper precautions to protect ourselves and our families from household fires.
They say there is one constant in life. Change. September has already brought several exciting changes to our government and to me personally. For our government, this is a time of renewal with new people taking on new responsibilities with fresh ideas to ensure that British Columbia continues to be the best place on earth.
The past couple of months have been jam packed with great festivals right here in Surrey. I have had the opportunity to take in many of these terrific events. Surrey was the proud host for the BC Summer Games.
The impacts of any emergency or disaster can be lessened by knowing what to do before, during and after an emergency. May 6-12 was Emergency Preparedness Week in Canada, and it was a great way to remind families about the value of emergency planning and preparedness.
A campaign to ensure that every home in B.C. has a working smoke alarm was launched in Surrey on March 22nd. Championed by Surrey Fire Chief Len Garis, and Justice Minister Shirley Bond, this is part of a broad initiative to reduce fire-related deaths and injuries.
Last week our government announced a series of measures to combat crime in communities such as Surrey.
As the holiday frenzy begins, I would like to encourage everyone to consider buying local this holiday season. By buying local you support your neighbours and friends, and ensure our local economy continues to thrive.