Normally, fellow members of the Association would be reading this report in their printed version of Orders of the Day.

Not this month.

This month our thoughts and prayers go out to Rob Lee, our steadfast production wizard at Orders of the Day, and to his wife Karina and the family. We often say there would be no OOTD without Rob to organize and layout the newsletter. Well, this month that is sadly true. Karina tells us Rob is in hospital fighting a very serious infection. He could be sidelined for a month.

Peter Gourlay and his staff at the Legislative Library are working with OOTD editor Brian Kieran to load April content on this website in as user-friendly a format as possible. We are hoping to also mail out a notification to all members.

Elections are a time of renewal and a testament to our democracy. On April 28th, Canadians will elect a new parliament to govern our country. This is our opportunity to shape the future by selecting representatives who reflect our values and priorities.

Political parties have different strengths and weaknesses, and no party is without flaws. However, all strive to govern well based on their vision for the country and their history as a political party. As voters, it is our responsibility to stay informed, evaluate candidates, and vote for those who best represent our communities. If elected officials fail to meet expectations, democracy gives us the power to hold them accountable in the next election.

I encourage you to learn about your candidates and political parties and vote responsibly. Please remind every eligible Canadian voter to cast their ballot on or before April 28 for the best candidate in your area.

April is a month of renewal, a time to reflect on and celebrate what has gone before us and what will come. It is the month we observe Earth Day, and Christians around the world celebrate Easter, commemorating the resurrection of Jesus – a time of renewal and faith. Similarly, Vaisakhi marks a significant moment for the Sikh and Hindu faith, celebrating our new beginnings and togetherness. Because of my wife Isabelle’s Christian background – her Spanish and French heritage – I understand how Easter, like many religious observances, brings families together to renew their faith and purpose.

The spring season also includes many other meaningful observances, such as Yom HaShoah (Holocaust Remembrance Day), Eid al-Fitr, the Birth of Buddha, World Autism Awareness Day, World Book Day, International Workers’ Memorial Day, and Cancer Awareness Month. I encourage you to celebrate with family and friends, appreciating our shared blessings.

As you reflect on the good things in your life, consider also your actions' impact on Earth. Try to find ways at a personal level and in business to impact the environment positively. Every action matters.

Finally, an AFMLABC Membership Reminder: some AFMLABC members still have outstanding dues. While we don’t issue invoices, this is a friendly nudge to renew your membership. Annual membership dues are $60 (many round up to $100). The non-member subscription is $40, and the lifetime membership for members 65 and older is $1,000. Payments can be made online at www.formerbcmla.com/payments.

If you have suggestions or advice or want to talk, please reach out at daveshayer@gmail.com.

Wishing you all a joyful and meaningful season.

Warm regards,
Dave S. Hayer
President