Dec 2 - Santa's Festival of Trees - Laurie brought Christmas greetings to a large family crowd at this annual event at the Shaw Conference Centre. 

Nov 29 - Laurie was one of the guest speakers at a Calgary Military Museum Society reception to thank the major donors to the new Museum in Calgary.  The federal Government was one of the major contributors and Laurie was proud to represent the Minister of National Defence for the occasion.    

Nov 29 - Calgary Military Museums Society Gala - Laurie was Guest of Honour at this annual gala in support of the Calgary Military Museum.  He provided an update of our mission in Afghanistan and had many requests for copies of the speech.  A special treat was sharing dinner with Rex Murphy, who also provided very spell-binding remarks to the crowd of over 600 people.

With fellow dinner guest and speaker, Rex Murphy

Nov 29 - Forzani Hockey Gear for the Troops - Laurie was part of an event at a Sports Chek store in Calgary, where the Forzani Group announced the donation of $60,000 in hockey gear for use by our troops in Afghanistan.  It was an idea brought forward by employees and will make the many hockey games  overrseas more fun.  Skates were not required.

Game's on!

Loading the gear for the troops.

Nov 25 - Evan's Game - Laurie sold 50/50 tickets and gave opening remarks at this soccer game commemorating the life of Evan Grykuliak.  Evan was murdered on his 17th birthday in November 2006.  His family, friends and community have made atremendous effort to turn tragedy into something positive and the game between Evan's under-18 team and the Edmonton Police Service was the featured event ina campaign that has raised over $50,000 for anti-bullying programs in Edmonton's schools.  E-V-A-N, or End Violence Act Now, is the name of the project and everyone involved deserves great credit.  Laurie also devoted a Member's Satement in the House of Commons to the event, and this may be viewed by clicking on the link.

Nov 24 - Oilers Salute the Troops - The Edmonton Oilers staged a spectacular event to salute our troops. Over 5,000 season ticket holders gave their tickets back so that soldiers and their families could enjoy an evening out at Rexall Place. The crowd was a sea of camouflage and there was a great outpouring of affection for the brave men and women who "stand on guard for thee". The Minister of National Defence and the Chief of the Defence Staff joined Laurie and two Edmonton soldietrs and their wives at centre ice for the ceremonial faceoff. Laurie gave up his box seats to a soldier and his wife and joined the troops in the stands. All in all, it was a memorable evening and to put the icing on the cake, the Oilers won the game in a shoot-out. Perfect!

Dropping the puck

With Master Corporal Campbell and his wife after they swapped tickets.

Saluting the Troops

Half a cadpat doughnut!

Nov 24 - Mix and mingle with Edmonton Centre EDA - Laurie invited the Minister of National Defence to join him in meeting and chatting with about 75 members of the Edmonton Centre constituency at the Edmonton Petroleum Club.

Laurie's constituency staff Linda, Averil and Oula with their MP and MND

Nov 24 - Laurie and Hon Peter MacKay visited the Health Research Innovation facility at the University of Alberta and the National Institute of Nanotechnology. It was an eye-opener into the extremely high level of research being carried out at the U of A - research that will lead to great benefits for Canadians in many areas of health and technology.

Nov 24 - Edmonton United Services Institute Symposium - Laurie and Minister of National Defence, the Honourable Peter MacKay spoke at this symposium that focused on our mission in Afghanistan. It highlighted both the successes and the challenges of that critical mission that is working to rebuild Afghanistan from scratch.

Introducing Hon Peter MacKay

Nov 23 - Educacentre College - Laurie attended the official launch of this francophone virtual campus in Vancouver. He brought greetings en francais and enjoyed learning about this innovative project.

With other participants in Educacentre launch.

Nov 19 - Air Force Officers Advisory Group - Laurie addressed this large body of retired Air Force officers and answered many questions on military issues of the day. It was a challenging group with many retired three-star generals and former Commanders of Canada's air force.

Nov 17 - Going Once, Going Twice - Laurie attended the annual event sponsored by the Harcourt House Art Gallery. Many works of art in a wide variety of media were available and Laurie managed to be the top bidder and "win" and beautiful painted platter.

Nov 17 - Immigrant Access Fund Announcement - Laurie announced funding of $120,000 for the Immigrant Access Fund, which helps immigrants with $5,000 loans to upgrade their credentials for employment in their professional field. The programme is now self-sustaining and is aiding many immigrants in becoming full participants in the opportunities that Canada has to offer.

Announcing $120,000 in funding

Nov 16 - InterAct Club Fund Raiser - Laurie and Judy dropped in on this event put on by students at Ross Sheppard High School to raise funds in support of education programmes in Belize. It was a great example of what our young people can accomplish and illustrates what great citizens we are raising.

Nov 16 - Military Family Resource Centre Wine and Cheese - Laurie and Judy also dropped in on thuis event at the Edmonton Garrison. The MFRC was celebrating the contributions of various organizations and individuals towards programmes for the families of soldiers on duty overseas.

Nov 15 - Laurie attended the National Aboriginal Achievement Reception in Ottawa. This event highlights the excellent accomplishments of many of Canada's aboriginal citizens.

Nov 13 - Meeting with Polish Ambassador - Laurie's new position as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence is bringing him into contact with more people on the international scene. One example was today's meeting with the Polish Ambassador to Canada Piotr Ogrodzinski, at which they discussed various topics of mutual interest to Canada and Poland.

With Polish Ambassador Grodzinski

Nov 11 - Lest We Forget - Laurie, Judy and son Robb spent a very busy day attending various Remembrance Day ceremonies, laying wreaths and speaking. There were large turnouts at all locations, as Canadians pause to give thanks for those who have served the cause of freedom in the past and those who continue to serve today.

Speaking at West Edmonton Mall

With Meadowcroft residents Roy and Jeannette

Nov 10 - Vimy at the Citadel - Laurie and Judy attended and thoroughly enjoyed the performance of the new play Vimy, written to tell the story of a number of characters at the Battle of Vimy Ridge in April 1917. That battle has been widely accepted as one of the seminal events in Canada reaching true nationhood. The play was very moving and kleenex was much in evidence when the curtain fell.

With actors Billy MacLellan and Daniela Vlaskalic

Nov 9 - NE Rotary Club - Laurie was a guest speaker at the NE Rotary Club Remembrance Day Luncheon. There were many veterans in the audience and Laurie's update on Afghanistan was well received.

Addressing NE Rotary Club

Nov 9 - Seniors Visits - Laurie visited a number of seniors residences for their Remembrance Day ceremonies. It is very important that we spend time remembering and appreciating that everything we have has been "paid for" by someone else.

Speaking at the McQueen Residence

Nov 8 - Trip to Cold Lake - Laurie spent the day at 4 Wing Cold Lake being brought up to date on upgrades to the CF-18 Hornet, which is Canada's front-line fighter. Laurie had been the first Canadian Forces pilot checked out on the CF-18 back in 1982. A planned flight had to be cancelled due to weather, but Laurie had the opportunity to be the Guest of Honour at a Mess Dinner that evening.

All dressed up and nowhere to go.

Nov 7 - Breakfast with the Boys - Laurie was part of a very large crowd at the Shaw Centre in support of the Alberta Council of Womens Shelters. The programme promoted awareness of violence against women and called on "The Boys" to make a difference.

Nov 7 - Clean Scene Luncheon - Laurie brought greetings to this annual event that promotes awareness of drug abuse, particularly amongst our young people. There were several real life stories told about successful battles to get off drugs and contribute to others doing the same.

Nov 6 - Town Hall Meeting - Laurie met a packed house at the Laurier Heights Community League. He brought them up to date on several issues, answered questions and had excellent discussions on a wide variety of topics. This is an important aspect of staying in touch with constituents.

Chatting with constituents after the Town Hall Meeting.

Nov 6 - Business Opening - Laurie helped a large crowd at the Century Palace Restaurant to celebrate the launching of a new business by prominent Edmonton businessman Herbert Chiu. SIF Asset Management Corp. will provide services to all Edmontonians and will be an excellent addition to the Chinese business scene in particular.

Congratulating businessman Herbert Chiu

Nov 05 - Funding for the Institute for the Advancement of Aboriginal Women (IAAW) - Laurie again used his limited Cree to announce $60,000 in funding to support the adminstration of the IAAW. This organization advocates on behalf of aboriginal women and provides programs for them to advance in their communities.

In discussion with members of the aboriginal community.

Nov 05 - Funding for Metis Nation of Alberta - Laurie announced $315,000 in funding to promote the preservation of the Michif language in Alberta. Michif is the cree-based language spoken by the majority of Albertra's Metis people, and preserving it is important to the cultural identity of this important group of Canadians.

With MNA President Audrey Poitras after bringing money and greetings in Cree.

Nov 03 - Edmonton Police Service Annual Retirement Dinner - Laurie and Judy attended and brought greetings to this annual event that celebrates the long service of Edmonton's finest who have sworn to protect us. Members who had served as long as 38 years accepted reirement gifts and 25-year members were presented with gold watches.

Nov 03 - Jeans and Beans - Laurie and Judy brought greetings to the annual Jeans and Beans Banquet in support of Employabilities. This organization works very hard to help people with physical or mental challenges to make the most of their abilities. Laurie uses their call centre and is very impressed with their professionalism and effectiveness.

Nov 03 - Funeral of Allen Williams - Edmonton came out in huge numbers to the Aviation Museum on Kingsway to say goodbye to Allen Williams. Allen was an engineering entrepreneur, pilot, and outdoor adventurer who lost his life in a plane crash near Golden, BC. He was an outstanding business and community leader and he will be missed.

Nov 03 - Craft Sales - Laurie joined residents and visitors of Canterbury Court and McQueen Seniors Residence for their annual craft sales. He contributed to their their coffers by picking up some Christmas stocking stuffers and even won a door prize.

Nov 02 - Atlantic Treaty Association 53rd General Assembly - Laurie delivered a closing speech to the 53rd meeting of this NATO body and covered Canada's historical commitments and our contributions to the current mission in Afghanistan.

Nov 01 - Edmonton Festival City Road Show - Laurie came out to support an Ottawa event sponsored by Edmonton tourism. Many of Edmonton's hotels and tourist organizations were represented and Ottawa business and convention people learned why they should bring their business to Edmonton.

Oct 31 - Atlantic Council of Canada Dinner - Laurie attended a small dinner sponsored by Hon. Bill Graham, former Leader of the Liberal Party, which included several ambassadors and members of NATO. It was an evening of lively discussion, as some, such as the Ambassador of Russia, had slightly different historical perspectives than some others.

Oct 31 - Teachers Institute Dinner - Laurie attended this dinner in honour of teachers from around the country who have been recognized for their excellence. Jasper Place High School teacher Lynne Burns was one of the recipients of recognition and Laurie was pleased to acknowledge her contributions to education.

Presenting certificate to teacher Lynne Burns

Oct 30 - Big Brothers and Sisters Reception - Laurie joined the Hon. Peter MacKay and members of all parties at an event in support of Big Brothers and Sisters. A special treat at the event was meeting hockey legend Bobby Orr.

With hockey legend Bobby Orr, Boston Bruins #4

Oct 28 - 90th Anniversary of Passchendaele - The 49th Battalion of the Loyal Edmonton Regiment celebrated the 90th anniversary of this pivotal battle of World War One. The 49th earned a battle honour for their valour as a unit. This battle was a true illustration of the horror of war, as the Canadians divisions suffered nearly 80% casualties. It was also a true illustration of valour, as no fewer than nine Victoria Crosses were earned during the battle. Laurie addressed the parade and also met a visiting general of the Afghanistan National Army.

With General Khair Mahmod of the Afghanistan National Army

Oct 27 – Italian Monument Unveiling –Laurie joined two hundred members of the Italian community on the grounds of the Alberta Legislature for the unveiling of a monument to celebrate Italian culture and heritage in Alberta.  Laurie brought remarks in Italian to the delight and appreciation of the assembly.Oct 27 – Edmonton Firefighters Retirement Banquet – Laurie and Judy joined the reception for this annual event that celebrates the long service of members of the Edmonton Fire Department.  We should all be grateful for their devotion to protecting us and our property.

l – r Councillor Tony Caterina, Laurie, Italian Consul General Gabriele Sardo and Carlo Amodio

Oct 27 – Ukrainian National Federation 75^th Anniversary – Laurie and Judy joined the dinner and celebration of 75 years of the UNF’s service to Canada’s Ukrainian community.  Laurie delivered a significant portion of his remarks in Ukrainian and everyone enjoyed some great musical entertainment and a performance by the world famous Shumka Dancers.

Laurie doing his best Ukrainian.

27 Oct - Art Gallery of Alberta - Months of hard work by the Edmonton team of MPs paid off with the announcement of $10 million in funding for the exciting new Art Gallery of Alberta. This is a great project undertaken with the assistance of all three levels of government and corporate and individual donors. The new art gallery will be a signature piece of infrastructure and will enhance the quality of life for Edmonton.

l - r Hon Gene Zwozdeski, Mayor Stephen Mandel, Hon. Rona Ambrose, Laurie, MP Mike Lake, MLA Thomas Lukaszuk, Allen Scott

26 Oct - Harvest Gala 2007 - Laurie and Judy attended this 10th annual event in celebration of the farm harvest and all the bounty that it provides to Canadians. The agricultural sector in Canada puts food on our tables and provides jobs for hundreds of thousands of Canadians.

Laurie and Minister of Agriculture the Hon. Gerry Ritz

25 Oct - ArteZan Designs Project Silk Shawl Event - This event at the National Arts Centre in Ottawa was sponsored by Government Whip Jay Hill and his wife Leah and Afghanistan Ambassador Omar Samad and his wife Karsheid. It was in support of women in Afghanistan who are reviving the art of silk weaving; an art that was almost lost under the Taliban. All of the proceeds from the sale of the shawls goes to the women in Afghanistan so that they can feed therir families and train other women to participate. A total of over $23,000 was raised.

Oct 22 - Maritime Simulation Conference - Laurie gave a speech on behalf of the Minister of National Defence to open the annual Maritime Simulation Conference.  This events showcases advances in simulation technology and Canada's leading role in developing this sector.

Oct 22 - Canadian Foundation for Innovation 10th Anniversary Dinner - Along with a number of MPs from all parties, Laurie attended this formal dinner to recognize the accomplishments of Canada's innovators and their significant impact on the advancement of science and technology.

Oct 23 - Free mail to the troops - Laurie accompanied the Hon. Lawrence Cannon, Minister Responsible for Canada Post and represented the Minister of National Defence at the announcement of free mailing of letters from friends and families to our troops overseas.  The announcement took place in Buckingham, QC, and Laurie took the opportunity to practice his French.

Oct 20 - 21 - Nova Scotia visit - Laurie accompanied the Hon. Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence, on visits to a variety of defence-related activities in central Nova Scotia.  He got to meet reservists who are doing great work in the local communities and paid a special visit to 12 Wing Shearwater to discuss the implementation of the Cyclone shipborne helicopter programme.

Oct 16 - 19 - Briefings - Laurie spent a lot of time being briefed by various organizations within the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Forces on various aspects of his new duties as Parliamentary Secretary.

Oct 16 - Throne Speech - Parliament reconvened with a Speech from the Throne, outlining our Government's plans and priorities for the next session of the 39th Parliament.  If you Google "Speech from the Throne", you'll find all the details.

 Oct 15 - Swearing in as Parliamentary Secretary - A ceremony at Rideau Hall, which included Governor General Her Excellency Michaelle Jean and Prime Minister the Right Honourable Stephen Harper, saw Laurie sworn-in to his new position as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence. 

Bringing a laugh to the Governor General

Oct 15 - Regimental Funeral for RCMP Constable Christopher Worden - Laurie joined thousands of mourners at a very dignified and solemn celebration of the life of RCMP Constable Christopher Worden, who was killed in the line of duty at Hay River, NWT.  We must never forget those who pay the ultimate price to protect us and our way of life.

Oct 14 - Knitty in the City - Laurie brought greetings to this annual fund raiser for The Alzheimers Society of Alberta.  Alzheimers and related disorders affect hundreds of thousands of Canadians and Knitty in the City is an excellent opportunity the educate and raise money.  The silent auction raised over $4,000 for the cause.

Oct 14 - Happy Birthday Betty Drury - Laurie joined family and friends for an 80th birthday celebration for long-time Edmonton resident and nurse Betty Drury.  Laurie's wife, Judy, was a Registered Nurse for 30 years and he had a lively discussion with Betty, whose mind is still as sharp as a tack.

Oct 13 - and still more door knocking.

Oct 13 - 25th Anniversary Korean War Veterans - Laurie was the keynote speaker at the 25th Anniversary of Unit 21 of the Korean Veterans Association.  Laurie spoke about the sacrifice of those who served in Korea and the positive results that flowed from their commitment - a modern and prosperous South Korea.  Laurie also related Canada's Korean experience to our current commitment to help the people of Afghanistan to rebuild their country.

Oct 13 - Canadian Polish Congress 30th Annual  Biannnual Convention - Laurie brought greetings in English and Polish to this biannual event.  A number of issues pertinent to Edmonton and Alberta's Polish community were discussed.  Polish immigrants and their families born in Canada have contributed in many ways to the prosperity and cultural diversity of Canada.

Oct 12 - 15th Anniversary of Dream Catchers - Laurie brought greetings in the Cree language to this 15th anniversary event which highlights the accomplishments of aboriginal youth.  The weekend event also provides training and motivation for young people to catch their dreams.

Oct 11 - Constituency Day - Laurie spent the day meeting with constituents, in order to be able to help them with individual situations.  This is the most basic function of an MP and Laurie and his staff work very hard to help people with troublesome circumstances.

Oct 11 - Edmonton Police Service Ride-along - Laurie spent ten hours on shift with Constables Denise Tarnowski and Will Hermosura patrolling the night streets of downtown Edmonton.   It was an excellent experience, and Laurie was highly impressed with the professionalism and compassion exhibited by members of the EPS.  It was also educational to note that every situation they dealt with was drug-related in some way. 

Oct 10 - Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence - News that Laurie had been forced to "sit on" for two months was finally released and he assumes new additional duties after the appointment by the Prime Minister.

Oct 10 - Summit Village flag raising - Laurie donated the flag and took part in the flag raising ceremony on the new pole erected by the residents of Summit Village.  It's great to see such patriotism and community spirit alive and well in Edmonton.

Oct 10 - Edmonton Caucus - Laurie performed his regular role as Chair of the Edmonton Regional Caucus at their monthly meeting.  These are excellent opportunities to coordinate the activities of all eight Edmonton MPs in their support of issues inportant to Alberta's Capital Region.

Oct 10 - Downtown Business Association Annual Fall Luncheon - Laurie brought greetings to this gathering of business leaders who have brought progress and prosperity to the Edmonton area.  Small and medium sized businesses are key to economic development.

Laurie addresses gathering while CBC emcees Ron Wilson and Portia Clark look on

Oct 09 - Door knocking - Laurie hit the bricks again to talk to constituents and see what's on their minds.  This is one of Laurie's favourite activities, because he never knows who will answer the door or what they might say.  Whatever their thoughts, people do enjoy seeing their representative between elections.

Oct 06 - 07 - Laurie, Judy, son Robb and a Canadian Forces doctor friend, who has done a tour in Afghanistan, enjoyed Thanksgiving in the Rockies.  Hiking in that beautiful environment always brings a deep appreciation of what we have to be thankful for, as Canadians living in such a great country.

Oct 05 - RCMP 'K' Division Change of Command - Laurie was an interested observer as command of RCMP 'K' Division passed from D/Comm Bill Sweeney to D/Comm Rod Knecht in a colourful ceremony at the Jefferson Armoury. 

Oct 04 - Minister of Justice Visit - Hon. Rob Nicholson visited Edmonton and attended a variety of public and private meetings to discuss our government's justice program.  We have been following an aggressive agenda designed to enhance the safety of individual Canadians and our communities.  It's time the opposition parties stopped blocking the public safety that Canadians want and deserve.

Oct 04 - Edmonton Police Gala - Laurie and Judy were guests and Laurie brought greetings to this gala dinner that featured the great work of the Edmonton Police Service, the Edmonton Police Foundation and the Edmonton Police Commission.  Laurie was joined in his praise by Hon. Gene Zwozdeski and His Worship Mayor Stephen Mandel.

Oct 01 - 04 - Read In Week - Laurie very actively participated in Read In Week by visiting 13 Edmonton elementary schools and reading to 22 classes.   Laurie and the students had  a lot of fun.

Oct 01 - Canadian Progress Club Toasty Roast - Premier Ed Stelmach and Mayor Stephen Mandel were the primary targets of six celebrity roasters at this annual charity event.  Being in the front row, Laurie did attract some attention and also had the pleasure of meeting Canadian teen idol (for those as old as Laurie) Bobby Curtola.