Welcoming students back to school and assisting Ainslie at the crosswalks at Octagon Pond Elementary. Principal Elsie Colbourne and Assistant Principal Karen Norman were all over the place welcoming students and parents while Darlene took care of the phones. Welcome back!

Had a very informative meeting with Emily Wadden of Safe Works Access Program (SWAP) this morning. Obtained some Naloxone kits as well information and demonstration of how to administer to save a life. Thank you!

Let’s take a moment to reflect on what today means. Every child matters.

In my final days as Shadow Minister for HCS I want applaud all who came forward and trusted me with your very personal and at times tragic healthcare challenges. It takes so much courage to do so and although I could not find solutions for all, know that each call was treated 1/2

with great priority. Going forward please be assured I will continue 2 advocate for better Mental Health supports, a full IVF service, a province wide CGM program, and greater respect for our seniors, 2 name a few. As always, reach out any time. We deserve better. 2/2

It was a great evening joining my brother to have a discussion and answer questions with third year MUN students of the Media & Canadian Politics course. Thank you to course instructor, Anthony Germaine for the invite. These young students are our future.

Lots of smiles today at Tim Hortons Paradise helping out with their holiday smile cookie campaign. Thank you to the staff and Veronica Kirk, President of the Topsail Paradise PC District Association for helping.

Happy to be at the Avalon Mall today with Veronica Kirk, president of the PC Topsail District Association for the Sock It For Sick kids for Ronald McDonald House Charities Newfoundland and Labrador.

What a great initiative, Old School Intergenerational Projects. So much fun! Just one outstanding time!

Christmas is getting closer and so come the Christmas craft fairs. Lots to see and purchase at the Holidaze Christmas Market.

Wonderful morning at the Newfoundland All Breed Kennel Club watching my daughter Morgan Dinn and granddogger (Louise) take part in their first show together. And Louise won best baby puppy in show!!! Lot’s of fun!

Week 156 of reminding Government of Newfoundland & Labrador that long term mental healthcare needs to be more accessible.

This is beyond an embarrassment. People deserve better. Our first major storm of the year and this is where some will spend the night. We were able to pull together to help those stranded during 9 11 so surely the province can come up with a coordinated effort here. Stay safe.

I had a very enlightening visit to The Gathering Place today with a tour of the facility and new projects in the works. This facility and staff are amazing in the work they do for the less fortunate. I encourage all to donate/ helpout in any way.

Very festive evening at Town of Paradise Christmas tree lighting. Had a lot of fun spinning the prize wheel for the Kin Club of Paradise, NL - a lot of turkeys won. Thanks to all to bought tickets, sang carols, council, staff and all who just enjoyed the event. Merry Christmas!

Lots of great crafts at the Get Messy NL Christmas Craft Fair. I left with some freeze dried peanut brittle (low calorie of course!). I got my picture with Joanne and Jennifer and ………..SANTA CLAUS!!!!!

Today is International Volunteer Day an opportunity to shine a light on the impact of volunteer efforts everywhere and promote the work of volunteers at all levels, including local, national and international. Thank you to the many, many volunteers throughout our communities!

Christmas and children young and old. Mr. Claus dropped in on Karwood Retirement Retreat for a visit to check his list a second time. Mostly good, ho ho ho ! Merry Christmas!

Great morning with my school council colleagues and the many parent volunteers preparing a Christmas pancake breakfast for the students. Another example of community. Merry Christmas all! Octagon Pond Elementary Parents

Today is national pink shirt day. The annual occasion sees people come together and wear a pink shirt to school or work as a symbol of their stance against bullying. If you can be anything today, and everyday, choose kindness. Have a great day!