Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Honorable MLA Blair Lekstrom Member for Peace River South

Thank you, Father God, for people like Blair Lekstrom--a dedicated servant who works for the betterment of our province. We ask, Lord, that you continue to help him do a great job in his constituency of Peace River as well as in his position of Minster of BC’s natural resources. Help him to know what will serve the province best in the areas of energy, mines and petroleum resources. We ask for favour, good health and travel safety for Blair. Watch over and protect Blair and his family; especially during those times that Blair is away from home.

Blair Lekstrom was re-elected to a third term as MLA for Peace River South on May 12, 2009 and was re-appointed as Minister of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources on June 10, 2009.

Blair was first appointed Minister of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources on January 19, 2009 after serving as Minister of Community Development from June 23, 2008. He was first elected in the 2001 provincial general election in the riding of Peace River South, and was re-elected for a second term in the 2005 general election.


Previously, Blair chaired the Legislative Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services (2001, 2002, 2005 and 2006) and served on the Select Standing Committee on Public Accounts, the Agriculture Policy Development Committee, the Legislative Review Committee and the Government Caucus Committee on the Economy. In the past he has also served as the Chair of the Legislative Committee to review the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act and the BC Offshore Oil and Gas Committee. He has been a member of the Select Standing Committee on Aboriginal Affairs, the Select Standing Committee on Health, the Northern Caucus Committee, the Cabinet Committee on Agenda & Priorities, and the Legislative Committee on the Citizens’ Assembly on Electoral Reform.


Before becoming an MLA, Blair was serving his second term as Mayor of the City of Dawson Creek. He was first elected mayor in 1996, after serving for three years as a councillor.


Born in 1961 in North Battleford, Saskatchewan, Blair moved to Dawson Creek later that year and has lived there ever since. Following graduation from South Peace Secondary School, Blair started with BC Tel in 1979 and worked for the next 17 years as an installer-repairman until his election as Mayor in 1996. He was a Peace River Regional District member and served on the North Central Municipal Association executive.


Blair's previous appointments include serving as a Municipal Finance Authority board member, North Central Municipal Association president, BC Task Force on Bank Mergers member, BC Agri-Food Policy Working Group member, and Union of BC Municipalities executive member.

 
Blair's community involvements included: Dawson Creek & District Hospital Foundation board member, Board Member, Pouce Coupe Long-Term Care Facility as well as participation in a wide range of community groups in his capacity as Mayor of Dawson Creek.

He and wife Vicki were married in 1982. They have two children. Blair is an avid motorcyclist and enjoys working on and riding his Harley Davidson. Other hobbies include: carpentry, camping with his family, and playing baseball and hockey.





Tuesday, March 30, 2010

MLA Richard T. Lee Burnaby North

Heavenly Father we give thanks to you today for Richard Lee as he serves in the riding of Burnaby North.We recognize that he you have given him may gifts and talents, help him to continue to use them wisely and we pray you would continue to supply all his needs as he serves his 3rd term. We pray that you would continue to grant him wisdom and divine strategy for the many tasks he has before him. We thank you for his willingness to serve on the many Select Standing Committees, and ask that you would give him the necessary strength and good health to serve. We pray for Your protection over him and his family, in Jesus mighty name Amen.


Richard T. Lee was first elected as the MLA for the riding of Burnaby North in 2001 and was re-elected to his third term in the May 2009 provincial general election. He was appointed Parliamentary Secretary for the Asia-Pacific Initiative on June 16, 2005.

Currently, Richard also serves as a member of the Legislative Select Standing Committee on Public Accounts, Select Standing Committee on Legislative Initiatives and a member of the Select Standing Committee on Education.


Previously, Richard also served as member of the Legislative Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services, the Legislative Special Committee to Review the Police Complaint Process, the Special Committee to Appoint a Police Complaint Commissioner, Vice-chair of the Special Committee to Appoint a Merit Commissioner, the Government Caucus Committee on Economy and Government Operations, the Government Caucus Multicultural Committee and as Chair of the Government Caucus Asian Economic Development Committee.


Before being elected to the Legislature, Richard was a programmer analyst at TRIUMF, Canada's national particle research facility. In 1976, he earned a Combined Honours Bachelor of Science degree from UBC in physics and mathematics and in 1980 a Masters of Science from UBC in Applied Mathematics. While studying, Richard worked as a research assistant from 1975 to 1977 and then as a teaching assistant from 1977 to 1979 with the Department of Mathematics at UBC. From 1979 to 1982 he worked as a programmer at TRIUMF and in 1982 became a programmer analyst. Richard attended the United States Particle Accelerator School at Berkeley in 1989 and once again in 1990 at Harvard University.


In 1971 Richard moved to British Columbia where his grandfather settled since 1913. He and his wife Anne married in 1986 and have lived in Burnaby since then. They have three children.

Monday, March 29, 2010

MLA Harry Lali - Member for Yale-Lillooet

Dearest Heavenly Father, we ask for Your blessing to rest upon Harry Lali as he serves as Opposition Critic for Multiculturalism. May he be of great value to his government counterpart as he shares his personal experiences and knowledge. May the people of Yale-Lillooet find Harry to be a great resource and voice for their area. We ask You to refresh and uplift his spirit. May you bless him with ears to hear You and a heart to obey You.

Harry Lali served as Minister of Transportation and Highways from February, 1998, to February, 2001. He was the longest serving NDP Highways Minister in British Columbia. Previously, Harry served as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Forests from June, 1996, to February, 1998.

Harry serves as opposition critic for Multiculturalism.

In 1988, Harry was elected City Councillor in Merritt for one term. In 1991, Harry was elected Member of the Legislative Assembly for Yale-Lillooet, re-elected MLA in 1996, and 2005. He was elected to a fourth term on May 12, 2009.

Harry is 51 years old and was born in Jullundur District, Punjab, and currently lives in Merritt. He was educated at the University of Victoria and the University of British Columbia, where he obtained a Bachelor of Arts Degree in History and South Asia Area Studies. Harry is the founder of the group that established the Chair of Punjabi and Sikh Studies at the University of British Columbia.

Before his election to the Legislature, Harry was an Employment Counsellor for the federally-sponsored Merritt Outreach Program from 1986 – 1991. He has also worked at MOSAIC in Vancouver. Harry is a former member of the IWA Local 1-417 when he spent 11 summers working in the sawmill industry in Interior B.C. Harry is also a former co-owner of a sporting goods store

From 2001 – 2006 Harry owned his own business that was involved in international development and technology transfer to developing countries, namely in the field of environmental technologies and power generation.

Harry and his wife, Rani, are the proud parents of two sons and one daughter.

Sunday, March 28, 2010

MLA Dr.Terry Lake Kamloops - North Thompson

Heavenly Father, we rejoice with You this day which You have made for all of us to enjoy. And in this blessed day we come to You on behalf of Dr. Terry Lake, whose public service has been well-noted and appreciated in Kamloops.
Now, as he takes on greater responsibility for the whole province, we pray a blessing upon this man and his family. Endow him with wisdom, patience, good humour and a caring heart. Help his family during the times when Terry will be away from home for extended periods of time. And, when the work load gets too heavy, may he turn to You for divine strength.
We pray this in the precious Name of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Amen

Dr. Terry Lake was appointed Parliamentary Secretary for the Ranching Task Force to the Minister of Agriculture and Lands on June 10, 2009. He was elected MLA for Kamloops-North Thompson on May 12, 2009.

Terry is a veterinarian by profession and served as the Mayor of the City of Kamloops from 2005-2008 and as a city councillor from 2002-2005, a time when Kamloops reached record employment and construction and was recognized for service to residents by the National Quality Institute.

Terry is a recipient of the BC Veterinary Medical Association Award of Merit for service to the profession and has served as Vice President of the World Small Animal Veterinary Association and Vice President of the Union of BC Municipalities. He was a member of the BC Transit Board of Directors for three years when transit service increased dramatically in Kamloops.

Community service has long been a part of Terry’s life whether serving as president of the Coquitlam Rotary Club in the 1990s or as president of the Kamloops Recreational Soccer League. One of his most rewarding experiences was traveling with Developing World Connections to Tangalle, Sri Lanka in 2008 to assist with tsunami relief.

Terry and his wife Lisa have three daughters, a dog and a cat.





Thursday, March 25, 2010

MLA Jenny Wai Ching Kwan Vancouver - Mount Pleasant

Dearest Heavenly Father, we bring before You Jenny Kwan and ask that Your hand would be upon her to bless her, favour her and guide her as she performs her duties as Opposition Critic for Small Business, Technology and Economic Development and as representative for Vancouver-Mount Pleasant. Rejuvenate her spirit and refresh her outlook as she continues to serve. May You grant her wisdom and patience and may she be a calming voice to her peers. We ask you to bless Jenny and her family with good health.

Jenny Kwan was first elected as the MLA for Vancouver - Mount Pleasant in 1996, becoming one of the first Chinese-Canadians to sit in BC's Legislative Assembly and the first Chinese Canadian Cabinet Minister in the history of B.C. She was re-elected in 2001, 2005 and again on May 12, 2009.


Jenny serves as opposition critic for Small Business, Technology and Economic Development.
Born in Hong Kong, Jenny Wai Ching Kwan immigrated to Canada with her family when she was nine years old.
She holds a Bachelor of Arts (Criminology) from Simon Fraser University. Jenny began working as a community legal advocate in the Downtown Eastside shortly after graduation.
Jenny was elected to Vancouver City Council in 1993 --becoming the youngest councillor in Vancouver’s history -- and served for three years as the sole representative of Vancouver's progressive municipal political party, COPE.
In 1998 Jenny was appointed Minister of Municipal Affairs, becoming BC's first Chinese-Canadian cabinet minister. Jenny also served as Minister of Women's Equality and Minister of Community Development, Cooperatives and Volunteers and was the provincial government’s lead person in developing the Vancouver Agreement.
Jenny is married and lives in East Vancouver with her husband, daughter, son and stepson.

Wednesday, March 24, 2010

Hon. MLA Kevin Krueger Member for Kamloops - South Thompson Minister of Tourism, Culture and the Arts

Father God, we thank You for Kevin Krueger, who has faithfully served the people of British Columbia for years. Bless him, Lord, as he continues to serve in many capacities. Guide him in each area and provide him with the wisdom and discernment as needed. May You also provide him with physical help when he needs it. Thank You, God, that he has so willingly given of his time in service. We ask that You also provide him with ample time to spend with his family and friends, and that these times be filled with joy. Bless him with good health, and safety as he travels.


Leonard Krog was re-elected as the MLA for Nanaimo on May 12, 2009.
Leonard serves as opposition critic for the Attorney General.


Born in Nanaimo and raised in Coombs, Leonard served as MLA for Parksville-Qualicum from 1991 to 1996.


Since 1980, Leonard has been a practicing lawyer in a Nanaimo law firm, most recently with his wife Sharon.
In addition , Leonard has served as the director and president of the Mid-Island Consumer Services Co-operative, chair of the United Way for Nanaimo and District, director of the Nanaimo City Centre Association, president of the Nanaimo City Bar Association, director and president of the Planned Parenthood Association's Nanaimo Branch, a member and supporter of Amnesty International and Lawyers for Social Responsibility.
Leonard and his wife Sharon live in Nanaimo. They have two children, Jessica and Parker, and two grandchildren, Portia and Archer.










Tuesday, March 23, 2010

MLA Maurine Karagianis Esquilmalt - Royal Roads




Dearest Heavenly Father, as Maurine Karagianis has led a pioneering life that reflects her care and concern for issues that matter to her, we ask that you direct her leadership abilities, her energy and her varied life experiences to the benefit of her government peers and the people of this province. May You bless her with wisdom and discernment as she serves as Opposition Critic for Children, Family Development and Child Care and as representative for Esquimalt-Royal Roads. Please bless her with good health and uplifted spirits.


Maurine Karagianis was elected MLA for Esquimalt-Metchosin on May 17, 2005, and re-elected to the reconfigured riding of Esquimalt-Royal Roads on May 12, 2009.



Maurine serves as opposition critic for Children, Family Development and Child Care.

 
She was elected to Esquimalt Council in 1996. Serving for three terms, Maurine helped create and chaired the CRD Arts Committee, and by working to save the Matson Gary Oak meadow in the Inner Harbour and daylighting the Gorge Creek helped enrich green space and renew bird habitat in Esquimalt.



A long-standing Director of the Veins of Life Watershed Society, Maurine has worked in support of environmental stewardship for the Gorge Waterway and watershed protection in the Capital Region.


She worked in the fashion industry for over 15 years, in retail, wholesale and import/export, and also spent more than a decade working in the communications industry for the tourism market and international motorcycle industry.

 

Maurine ran a consulting firm that worked with non-profit organizations and First Nations communities to create affordable housing. Her career has also included working for the provincial Ministry of Transportation and the Ministry of Social Services.

 
A proud mother and grandmother, Maurine lives with her partner in Esquimalt.






Monday, March 22, 2010

MLA Leonard Krog

Dearest Heavenly Father, we thank you for the commitment and desire to serve that Leonard Krog brings to his position as Opposition Critic for the Attorney General and MLA for Nanaimo. We ask that You use his position of influence and his many and varied experiences and knowledge to the benefit of this province. Keep Your guiding hand upon him as he performs his duties with integrity and honour. May he increase in wisdom and may You give him a heart that is open to hear You.

Leonard Krog was re-elected as the MLA for Nanaimo on May 12, 2009.

Leonard serves as opposition critic for the Attorney General.

Born in Nanaimo and raised in Coombs, Leonard served as MLA for Parksville-Qualicum from 1991 to 1996.

Since 1980, Leonard has been a practicing lawyer in a Nanaimo law firm, most recently with his wife Sharon.

In addition , Leonard has served as the director and president of the Mid-Island Consumer Services Co-operative, chair of the United Way for Nanaimo and District, director of the Nanaimo City Centre Association, president of the Nanaimo City Bar Association, director and president of the Planned Parenthood Association's Nanaimo Branch, a member and supporter of Amnesty International and Lawyers for Social Responsibility.

Leonard and his wife Sharon live in Nanaimo. They have two children, Jessica and Parker, and two grandchildren, Portia and Archer.

Thursday, March 18, 2010

MLA Carole James Victoria-Beacon Hill

                                                                                                                                                 
Heavenly Father, we thank You for Carole James who, over the course of many years, has demonstrated her dedication to the well-being and protection of our children and youth.
Our prayer today for Carole is that she will be granted good health and an abundance of energy in order that she may perform her many and time- consuming duties with grace, dignity and wisdom. Sharpen and shape her diverse talents so that she may continue to provide good leadership to the opposition party in the legislature. May she learn to call upon You for divine guidance. Protect her and her family today and in the days to come. This we pray in Jesus' Holy Name. Amen.

Carole James was elected Leader of the British Columbia New Democratic Party on November 23, 2003.
She was elected to the Greater Victoria School Board from 1990 to 2001, including seven terms as chair. She also served at the national level as Vice-President of the Canadian School Boards Association.
In addition to serving a two-year term as the Director of Child Care Policy for the government of British Columbia, she has participated on the Greater Victoria Region Social Planning Council, the City of Victoria Parks and Recreation Committee, and the Task Force on Violence Prevention.
In recognition of her work in the area of co-operative pre-schools, she was named an Honorary Life Member of the Vancouver Island Co-operative Pre-School Association.

In 2001, Carole moved to Prince George to serve as the Director of Child and Family Services for Carrier Sekani Family Services. As part of her management responsibilities, she coordinated the planning for regionalization of child and family services from the Ministry of Children and Families to an Aboriginal Authority. In July 2003, just prior to becoming Leader of the B.C. NDP, she became Coordinator with the Northern Aboriginal Authority for Families.

In May 2005, Carole was elected as MLA for Victoria-Beacon Hill, and became the Leader of B.C.'s Official Opposition. She was re-elected as MLA on May 12, 2009.
Carole is the mother of two children, Alison and Evan. She was also a foster parent for 20 years, caring for children and adults with special needs.











Wednesday, March 17, 2010

MLA Vicki Huntington Delta South

Father God, we thank You for Vicki Huntington, and for her intense desire to serve the people of British Columbia. We pray that You would continue to guide her and shine Your light upon her path; provide her with wisdom and discernment as she diligently works at the job given to her. Bless her, Father God, with health and strength.

Victoria (Vicki) Huntington is a native of Vancouver, BC and has a degree in Political Science from the University of British Columbia. Much of her early career was spent in Ottawa with the federal government. More recently, she served as an elected Councillor for the Municipality of Delta, BC.


For most of the 1970s, Vicki worked with the RCMP Security Service, beginning as a civilian member and later a Special Constable (Investigator) in the force. In preparation for this position, she was commissioned as a 1st Lieutenant in the Canadian Army Intelligence Corps (Res).


Vicki served as Band Manager for the Gitanmaax Indian Reserve in Hazelton, BC. First-hand knowledge and understanding gained in this capacity was invaluable in her later work with the federal Minister of Indian Affairs & Northern Development; Nisga’a Task Group; and as Vice Chair of the Lower Mainland Treaty Advisory Committee and its representative on the Provincial Treaty Negotiating Team.


During a number of years in Ottawa, Vicki served the Solicitor General of Canada; and the Ministers of both National Revenue and Indian Affairs & Northern Development. She was also involved in various capacities at the federal level with the Progressive Conservative Party. She returned to British Columbia in 1988 as the Director of the Federal Ministers’ Regional Offices in Vancouver.


Vicki has shown a particular interest in environmental matters. In this regard, she received an award from the Delta Farmland and Wildlife Trust for exceptional service.


A resident of Ladner (Delta), British Columbia, Vicki was first elected in 1993 to Delta Municipal Council and returned to Council at or near the top of the polls in the four subsequent municipal elections. She declined to run again in 2008.


Vicki was elected as an Independent MLA for Delta South in May 2009.







Tuesday, March 16, 2010

MLA Rob Howard Richmond Centre

                                                                                                                                    
Dearest Heavenly Father, we bring Rob Howard to You today and ask for Your guiding hand to be on his life as he represents the people of Richmond Centre. Use his experience as a City Councillor and proponent in financial matters to the benefit of our province in a way pleasing unto You. Direct the same enthusiasm he brings to his volunteer positions to the position entrusted to him as a leader and shaper of our province. May his ears be open to hear you and may he conduct all his affairs with integrity and honour.


Rob Howard was elected as the MLA for Richmond Centre in 2009.


Rob has served as President of Tourism Richmond, was co-Chair of the Vancouver chapter of the Real Estate Institute of BC and has served on the board of the Richmond Caring Place Society and the Heritage Commission. During his time on Richmond City Council, he chaired several committees including the Finance and Community Safety Committees.
Rob was the driving force behind the Richmond Airport Vancouver Rapid Transit Task Force and was a strong proponent of the City’s long-term financial plan. During his time as City Councilor, he was also deeply involved in the Asia Pacific Strategy.


Along with his wife Trudy and son Jay, Rob enjoys giving back to the community in which he has spent his life. Together, they have spent 12 years volunteering, assisting, coaching and running tournaments for the Richmond Minor Hockey Association.






Monday, March 15, 2010

MLA Douglas Horne - Coquitlam-Burke Mountain

Dear Father,

We are filled with joyful expectation for British Columbia's future.  We have witnessed amazing victories as our Canadian Atheletes held on to their vision, then pressing in to win the goal.

We thank you for Douglas Horne and ask you to bless the vision you have given him for his riding Coquitlam-Burke Mountain.


We ask for strength and endurance to finish well.  Thankyou for the wisdom and insight he brings to our Province.


May Your hand of protection be upon him and his family each day.

In Jesus Name, Amen



Douglas Horne was elected as the MLA for the riding of Coquitlam-Burke Mountain in 2009. He brings more than twenty-five years of experience in corporate development, communications, finance, government relations and public affairs.


Doug has been active in federal, provincial and civic politics for many years. In Ottawa, he served as Special Assistant to the Ministry of Industry Science and Technology and to the former Speaker of the House of Commons, John Fraser. Doug also worked towards the creation of the Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site.

Before entering politics, Doug was Managing Director – Corporate & CEO of Maple Leaf Studios Ltd. This leading international design and production studio has created innovative and engaging experiences for international themed attractions, World Fairs & Expos, visitor centres and destination resorts. Doug was instrumental in the success of British Columbia – Canada Place during the 2006 Winter Games in Torino, Italy. This facility was built to promote the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, as well as the Province of British Columbia and Canada.

Doug has lived in Coquitlam on Westwood Plateau with his wife and two children since 1996.

Wednesday, March 10, 2010

MLA John Horgan - Malahat Juan de Fuca

Dear Father,

We bless and thank You for our MLA John Horgan and his riding of Malahat - Juan de Fuca.  We thank you for the wisdom you have given John as he serves as opposition critic for Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources. We ask for Your favor in the challenges before him, that he may see barriers removed.

Bless the vision you have given John for his riding, and may he be renewed and strengthened in every way.

We bless John and his family and ask for your hand of protection to be upon their home and their health. Bless them with times of refreshing.

In Jesus Name, Amen



John Horgan was elected as the MLA for Malahat-Juan de Fuca on May 17, 2005, and re-elected to the reconfigured riding of Juan de Fuca on May 12, 2009.


John serves as opposition critic for Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources.

John was born and raised in Victoria.

A former long time public servant, he started his career in Ottawa working in the House of Commons before returning to British Columbia to work for the provincial government. He has also worked in the private sector, running a management and consulting company.

John has a Bachelor of Arts from Trent University and completed his Master of Arts at Sydney University in Australia.

John and his wife Ellie have two sons who attend the University of Victoria.


Tuesday, March 9, 2010

MLA Gordon Hogg - Surrey White Rock

Heavenly Father, we thank you for MLA Gordon Hogg and the many responsibilites You have placed with him. We acknowledge and thank You for his heart and compassion for the people of British Columbia. Please give him wisdom, discernment and endurance as he serves in a role of leadership for BC. We pray for blessings over Mr. Hogg and his family.



In Jesus' precious name, Amen


Gordon Hogg was first elected to represent the riding of Surrey-White Rock in a 1997 byelection. He was re-elected in 2001, 2005 and again in 2009.


Gordon Hogg was appointed Minister of State for Mining on June 23, 2008. He previously served as Minister of State for ActNow BC and Minister of Children and Family Development.

Mr. Hogg also served as chair of the Government Caucus and was a member of the Legislative Assembly Management Committee. He was also the chair of the Seniors Caucus Committee and has served on the Cabinet Committee for Agenda Development and the Select Standing Committees on Finance and Government Services; Sustainable Aquaculture; Children and Youth; Health and Social Services; Justice; Constitutional Affairs; and Intergovernmental Relations.

Previously, Mr. Hogg served as the Official Opposition Critic for education and human resources and was also a member of the Official Opposition Caucus Committees on Health and Education.

Mr. Hogg was a counsellor, probation officer and regional director for corrections prior to his election to the Legislative Assembly. He received his bachelor of arts in sociology and psychology from the University of British Columbia and his master’s degree in psychology from Antioch College

Mr. Hogg served on White Rock council for 20 years, for 10 of which he was mayor. He has been a board member of more than 15 committees and non-profit societies, including the Peace Arch Community Health Council and Peace Arch District Hospital. He has also been a foster parent and little league coach.

Gordon and his wife, LaVerne, live in White Rock and have one son.

Monday, March 8, 2010

MLA Spencer Herbert - Vancouver West End

Dear Father,

We thank You for Spencer Herbert and ask for Your blessings to be upon him as her serves as MLA for Vancouver West End.  This season has many challenges and we ask for greater wisdom and insight for Spencer as he tackles each issue head on, and may he discern priorities. We ask for times of refreshing for him.


We thank you for Spencer and pray your hand of protection to be upon him.

In Jesus Name


Amen


Spencer Herbert was elected MLA for Vancouver-West End on May 12, 2009. He served as MLA for Vancouver – Burrard from October 29, 2008 until the riding boundaries were re-drawn.


Spencer serves as opposition critic for Tourism, Culture and the Arts.

A strong community activist, Spencer tackles issues head on. He was elected to serve as Vancouver Parks Commissioner in 2005. He was voted “Unsung Hero” by the readers of the WestEnder and one of Vancouver’s three best politicians by the readers of Georgia Straight.

Spencer's achievements include initiating the first of many fundraising drives to restore storm-damaged Stanley Park and helping improve environmental sustainability at parks throughout the city. He was instrumental in the improvements to Nelson Park in the West End, and Emery Barnes Park in Yaletown.

Spencer’s background is in the arts and culture industry. He was the associate producer of the United Nations World Urban Festival and has been a facilitator and lecturer with Better Environmentally Sound Transportation, the GLBT Centre and the B.C. Civil Liberties Association.

He's also worked actively with the Coal Harbour Residents Association, the West End Residents Association, the Stanley Park Ecology Society, the Roundhouse Community Arts and Recreation Centre and the Save St. Paul's Coalition.

Born and raised in Vancouver, Spencer enjoys baseball and is a keen community gardener.

Spencer lives in the West End with partner Romi, a community developer.

Sunday, March 7, 2010

Hon. Kash Heed - Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General

Dear Father,  We thankYou for Minister Kash Heed and bless the work that has been placed before him in his riding of Vancouver-Fraserview and across our province as he serves as Minister for Public Safety and Solicitor General.  We thankYou for the courage and wisdom you have given Mr. Heed to stand for righteousness and justice in our Province, we ask for your favor to be upon him.  We ask for discernment and fresh strategies that will open doors to victory in his calling.


Bless him and his family Lord, protect them each day.

In Jesus Name, Amen


Kash Heed was appointed Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General on June 10, 2009.  Minister Heed was elected MLA for Vancouver-Fraserview in the 2009 general provincial election.


Kash graduated from the B.C. Police Academy in 1979 and has spent the past 30 years serving the public in law enforcement and began his career as an officer with the Vancouver Police Department where he moved through the ranks of Constable, Detective, Sergeant, Inspector and Superintendent. During this same time, he completed his BA and MA at Simon Fraser University part-time.

While Superintendent in charge of the south part of Vancouver, and as an Inspector in the southeast quadrant of Vancouver he created the Gang Violence Task Force.

Heed was also head of the drug squad, led the Indo-Canadian gang task force and launched the COMPSTAT system, using computer technology to track crime.

In 2007, Kash was appointed Chief of the West Vancouver Police Department.

Kash lives in Richmond with his wife and new daughter.

Thursday, March 4, 2010

MLA Dave S.Hayer - Surrey/Tynehead


Our eternal, Heavenly Father, we wish to express our appreciation for Dave Hayer who has so dedicated his time and talents to the service of this province.
We pray for this good man, his wife and children that this day will be filled with divine blessings for each one. Encourage Dave as he undertakes his many duties and responsibilities. Provide him with clearness of thought and compassion for the well-being of others.
Help him to serve You, Lord God, in all You have set before him. We ask for Your blessing upon him this day and the days to come. In Jesus' Blessed Name. Amen!

Dave S. Hayer was first elected to the BC Legislature as MLA for the riding of Surrey-Tynehead in the 2001 provincial general election and was re-elected in 2005 and 2009.

He is currently serving as Parliamentary Secretary for Multiculturalism and is a member of the Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services, Select Standing Committee on Health and Select Standing Committee on Legislative Initiatives.

Dave was appointed Parliamentary Secretary for Multiculturalism on June 16, 2005. In this role, he works closely with Hon. Moira Stilwell, Minister of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development, who is responsible for the Provincial Nominee Program. Previously, Dave was a member of the Select Standing Committee on Parliamentary Reform, Ethical Conduct, Standing Orders and Private Bills.

In January 2007, Dave received a prestigious award from the Government of India. The Pravasi Bharatia Samman Award is annually given to people of Indian heritage, no longer living in India, who have achieved excellence in their chosen fields of endeavour. Dave was presented with the award for his "active leadership in the community, his contributions to public service and for his achievements in government". At the presentation ceremony, Dave was described as a "great friend of India and has been a strong voice in the Indo-Canadian community against terrorism and violence". He was the only Canadian among 15 people from other countries to be given the Pravasi Bharatia Samman Award this year. Dave is only the second Canadian to be presented with this honour. Dave received his award from Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam, President of India, at a ceremony in New Delhi, India on January 9, 2007. In 2008 Dave was selected by the Vancouver Sun as one of the 100 top most influential Canadians of South Asian descent making a difference in BC.

Previously, Dave served as Chair of Surrey Caucus; Caucus Liaison for the Minister of State for Mental Health and Addictions Services; vice-chair of the Caucus Committee for Asian Economic Development; member of the Government Caucus Committee on Multiculturalism & Diversity and Government Caucus Committee on Health; member of the Cabinet Committee on Environment and Resource Development for the Ministry of Skills Development and Labour and Ministry of Sustainable Resource Management; member of the Select Standing Committees on Finance and Government Services, Education, and Aboriginal Affairs; the Special Committee to Review the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act; member of the Government Caucus Committee on Government Operations, Select Standing Committee member on Crown Corporations and Caucus Liaison for the Minister of State for Intermediate, Long Term and Home Care.

Before his election to public office, Dave was a Surrey businessperson, Assistant Publisher of the Indo-Canadian Times, Kwantlen University College Governor, real estate agent, and he worked in the newspaper and forestry industries and as labourer in a steel factory. Dave earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration from Simon Fraser University in 1982 and from 1981 to 1982 he completed taxation courses at the University of British Columbia. Dave served as the General Manager of the Canadian Accounting Aggregates Public Accountants from 1983 to 1988 following which he joined the Indo-Canadian Times.

Dave's current involvements include: member of the Rotary Club of Surrey, Surrey Chamber of Commerce and the Cloverdale Chamber of Commerce. Some previous business involvements include: BC Chamber of Commerce director (1999-2001); Surrey Chamber of Commerce president (1996-97), vice-president (1994-96), director (1992-94); Vancouver Board of Trade Small Business Council member (1995-2000); Indo-Canadian Business Association vice-president (1993-2000); Ethnic Press Association of BC vice-president (1994-99), treasurer/director (1991-99); and, City of Surrey Economic Development Strategy Advisory Committee member (1995-2000).

Some of Dave's former community involvements include: Rotary Club of Surrey president (1999-2000), vice-president (1996-98); Surrey Community Crime Prevention Society president (1995-96); South Fraser Child Development Centre Christmas Party chair (1988-2001); and Surrey & White Rock Home Support Association director (94-95). As well, Dave initiated the Surrey Police Officer of the Year Awards and initiated the building of the Surrey Chamber of Commerce Building.

Born in 1958 in India, Dave moved to Surrey in 1972 and into the Surrey-Tynehead constituency in 1991. He and Isabelle Martinez, who married in 1981, have four children. Dave enjoys working on community projects, reading, swimming and walking.











Wednesday, March 3, 2010

Hon. Randy Hawes - Minister of State for Mining, Member for Abbotsford/Mission



Father, we thank You for Minister Hawes and his years of service to the people of British Columbia. We thank You that he has given of himself to make his community a better place. We do pray Your richest blessing upon him as he serves this term in office. We pray success over his portfolio, success in his personal life and success as a father and grandfather. May You direct his steps, and may You make him successful for the sake of the people of British Columbia. Thank You that You honour men, and we thank You that others have honoured Randy and recognized his service and achievements. May You bless him this term.

Randy Hawes was re-elected as MLA to represent the new riding of Abbotsford-Mission in the spring of 2009.

Randy was first elected as MLA for Maple Ridge-Mission in 2001 and was re-elected in the May 2005 provincial general election.

Randy was appointed the Minister of State for Mining in June 2009.
Randy has served as Chief Government Whip as appointed by Premier Gordon Campbell, he has chaired the Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Service, Chair of the Government Committee on Health, and has been a member of the Legislative Assembly's Select Standing Committee on Health. In addition, he serves on the Legislative Assembly's Select Standing Committee on Public Accounts, the Special Committee to Select a Merit Commissioner and chairs the Burrard Thermal Options Committee. Formerly, Randy was Chair of the Special Committee to Appoint a Chief Electoral Officer, and served on the Government Caucus Committee on Communities and Safety and the Small-Scale Salvage Review committee.
Before becoming an MLA, Randy was in his third term as Mayor of the District of Mission. Randy was also Chair of the Fraser Valley Regional District, a member of the Fraser Valley Treaty Advisory Committee for four years, a four-year member of the James Sewer Treatment Plant Board, and a seven-year member (four as Chair) of the Fraser Valley Water Commission.

Randy started as a loans officer with the Toronto Dominion Bank in 1972 and worked as manager in a variety of locations throughout BC and the Yukon. Because he wanted to stay in Mission, Randy left the TD bank in 1986 to pursue a career in real estate and property development. Randy was elected to a one-year term as a District of Mission councillor in 1987 and became mayor in 1993.

 
Randy has been an active participant in many aspects of his constituency, including serving for two years on the Mission Community Health Council, five years on the District of Mission Justice Council, and three years on the Ferndale Penitentiary Citizens' Advisory Committee. Randy served as director of the Fraser House, a drug and alcohol treatment facility, was an honourary member of the Royal Canadian Legion's Branch 57, and is a member of the Mission Rotary Club. He also coached minor hockey for 15 years and minor baseball for 10 years in Mission.

 
Born in Edmonton in 1947, Randy and Alma married in 1969 and moved to Mission in 1979; they have three children and nine grandchildren. Randy's passions are playing golf, reading, and spending time with his grandchildren.















Monday, March 1, 2010

Hon. Colin Hansen - Minister of Finance and Deputy Premier, Member for Vancouver-Quilchena


Heavenly Father, You have placed great responsibility on this man. So we ask that You would help Colin to walk in wisdom and understanding in this position of leadership. Help him to know how to resolve all the issues that confront him. We pray for Your protection over him and his family. In Jesus' Holy Name.

 Colin Hansen was re-appointed Minister of Finance and appointed Deputy Premier on June 10, 2009. He previously served as Minister of Economic Development (June 16, 2005 to June 23, 2008), Minister of Health Services (June 5, 2001 to December 14, 2004) and a previous appointment as Minister of Finance (December 15, 2004 to June 15, 2005).

He was first elected in 1996 to represent the electoral district of Vancouver-Quilchena and was re-elected in 2001, 2005 and 2009.
Colin served as health critic for the Official Opposition, as well as the critic for Employment and Investment, and for Labour. He sat on the Select Standing Committees on Crown Corporations and on Economic Development, Science, Labour, Training and Technology.

He also sat on the Official Opposition Caucus Committees on Health and Economy.
Colin received his bachelor of arts in political science from the University of Victoria in 1975. Before his election to the Legislative Assembly, he and his wife Laura owned and operated a small business they established in 1988. Prior to that, he was vice-president of finance and administration for the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada.

Colin served as a director of the Vancouver-Yokohama Sister City Society and chair of the Vancouver Museum board of trustees. Colin and Laura Hansen have two children and live in the Dunbar area of Vancouver-Quilchena.