What does a politician do when over 400 people show up at his door on a Sunday afternoon? No problem. He simply turns the BBQ on, asks an 85 year old musician to keep them entertained, gets his wife to sing a few of his favourite songs and serves them 400 apple turnovers he claims to have personally baked.

PHOTO CREDIT - GuyLauzon.ca

St. Andrews - Aug. 23, 2011 - What does a politician do when over 400 people show up at his door on a Sunday afternoon? No problem. He simply turns the BBQ on, asks an 85 year old musician to keep them entertained, gets his wife to sing a few of his favourite songs and serves them 400 apple turnovers he claims to have personally baked.

That is exactly what happened to your Stormont Dundas and South Glengarry Member of Parliament on Sunday August 14. My wife Frances and I hosted our 7th annual Constituency BBQ at our home.

Over the years we have been welcomed to so many special occasions by so many wonderful people, we thought it would be nice to have an event to somehow show our appreciation. We decided a summer BBQ or picnic might be a relaxed, informal way to show our appreciation to the many constituents we have met. We searched around for a park where we could hold such an event but, were unable to find one suitable for our needs. We are very fortunate to have a large lot surrounding our home and Frances suggested it would be more personal to invite them to our home. So we decided to invite all the constituents of SD&SG to our home once a year. We began this tradition in 2005.

Each year the number of people attending has increased. This year with the skies threatening thunder storms, over 400 took us up on our offer. It is a wonderful opportunity for Frances and me to meet everyone in an informal, relaxed atmosphere. Politics is forbidden for the afternoon. There are no speeches, no political questions asked or answered. The afternoon is all about folks getting to know us and each other on a personal level while enjoying Frances' flower gardens.

All the work is done by volunteers. A group of dedicated friends do all the cooking, the cleanup and ensure that all runs smoothly. Each year the highlight of the afternoon and the reason everyone keeps coming back is the incredible musical performance by 85 year old Smokey Leger, his family, and of course Frances' great singing. After everyone is gone Frances and I, both very tired, sit down and thank God for bringing so many wonderful people into our lives. Thank you to all who attended this year's BBQ and for those who couldn't make it we hope to see you next year.

Guy Lauzon
Member of Parliament
Stormont-Dundas-South Glengarry