Tuesday, August 31, 2010

MLA Hon Dr. Moira Stillwell Vancouver-Langara Minister of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development

Dearest Heavenly Father, thank You for the dedication of the Honourable Dr. Moira Stilwell as she represents the people of Vancouver-Langara and in her role as Minister of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development. We pray You will bless Minister Stilwell with abundant wisdom and clarity of vision as she sets policy and guides her Ministry into the future. May she makes decisions that please You and that will line up with Your plan. Grant her and her family good health and uplifted spirits. We pray this in Jesus' name.

Dr. Moira Stilwell was appointed Minister of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development on June 10, 2009.

Minister Stilwell was elected MLA for Vancouver-Langara in the 2009 provincial general election.

Dr. Moira Stilwell is a radiologist and nuclear medicine physician who has been working at BC Women’s Hospital for nearly a decade. Prior to being elected, Moira was Head of Nuclear Medicine at St. Paul’s Hospital, Surrey Memorial Hospital, Abbottsford Regional Hospital and Cancer Clinic. She was also the Co-Chair of the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation 2020 Task Force. She previously worked at BC Women’s Hospital where she was Co-medical director of the Breast Health Program and staff radiologist. She was a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Radiology in the Faculty of Medicine at University of British Columbia.

She is the past Chair of the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation/BC Yukon Chapter, has served on the Board of the Canadian Breast Cancer Research Alliance, as well as on the BC Women’s Hospital Foundation Board.

In addition to her active involvement in promoting a healthy community, both as a volunteer and physician, Moira has been actively involved in her children’s schools and local community.

Moira has three grown children and currently lives in Vancouver with her husband Dr. Sam Lichtenstein.







Monday, August 30, 2010

MLA Hon. Ben Stewart Westside-Kelowna Minister of Community and Rural Development

Dear God, we thank You that we can come before You today knowing that You will always hear and answer our prayers. We bring before You today, the Hon. Ben Stewart who is our Minister of Community and Rural Development, elected for Westside-Kelowna. We thank You God for the diversity of talents that You had given him and for Your continual blessing over him day by day. We ask that You continue to give him wisdom and understanding as he represents BC citizens in the rural communities.
In Jesus name we pray. Amen.

Ben Stewart is currently the Minister of Community and Rural Development. His past portfolios include Ministry of Citizens' Services and Minister Responsible for Multiculturalism and the Public Affairs Bureau. He was elected MLA for Westside-Kelowna on May 12, 2009.

An entrepreneur, Ben founded and built Quails’ Gate into one of Canada’s leading estate wineries.

Ben has 30 years of extensive experience serving the community and is a founding director of a Venture Capital Fund for local business development. He was on the board of the Kelowna General Hospital Foundation and has been active in the fundraising and establishment of the Brookhaven Extended Care Facility Campaign, Southern Interior Cancer Centre Campaign, and the Rotary Centre for the Arts.

Ben was chair of the BC Grape Marketing Board where they successfully negotiated with provincial and federal governments on agricultural stabilization. Additionally, he was chairman of the Regional Transportation Advisory Committee for the Thompson Okanagan, as well as a member of the Presidents Community Advisory Council at UBC Okanagan.

His other experience includes having served as the past chair of VQA Canada, where they successfully resolved a number of significant international issues such as trademark protection, international mutual recognition agreements including national wine and health standards. As vice-chair of the Canadian Vintners Association, he oversaw the establishment of new national wine association offices in Ottawa and the hiring of their first CEO.

Ben has been recognized as Business Leader of the Year in Kelowna in 1998, received the Westbank Chamber of Commerce President’s Award in 2006, and recognized as Family Business of the Year by Grant Thornton in 2007. He also received the Queen’s Jubilee Medal for Community Service. He was a Kinsman, a scout leader and a member of the Canadian Ski Patrol.

Ben lives in Westside with Ruth his wife of 30 years and has three grown children.





Sunday, August 29, 2010

MLA John Slater Member for Boundary - Simikameen

Father, this morning as we pray for Mr. Slater. As we pray for him today, we trust that Your peace, rest and strength will come alive in his heart, to meet whatever needs he has today. We give thanks for John’s faithful dedication of 30 years of community service to those who live in riding .. Now that he is serving as their MLA. we pray you will continue to richly bless him with the ability to see clearly and discern the needs in this community. May he find favour as he seeks to accomplish goals, that will greatly benefit the constituents, of his riding.


We ask that you will bless him daily with renewed energy, good health and safety as he travels.

In the Name of Jesus. Amen!


John Slater was appointed Parliamentary Secretary for Water Supply and Allocation to the Minister of Environment on June 10, 2009. He was elected as MLA for Boundary-Similkameen on May 12, 2009. He will also be serving on the Environment and Land Use Committee.

He currently owns and operates Desert Edge Nursery, a retail/wholesale operation selling vegetable and nursery products.

John is a well-known proactive community leader in the South Okanagan having served Osoyoos for twelve years on city council and then six years as Mayor.

For nearly 30 years in Osoyoos, John has been actively involved in the community. For more than 20 years he coached youth basketball, soccer, hockey and baseball. He was a Kinsman as well as serving as Director for the Osoyoos & District Recreation Commission, the Osoyoos Child & Youth Committee, the Osoyoos Chamber of Commerce, the Okanagan Regional Library, the Interior Vegetable Marketing Agency & Greenhouse Growers Association, and was a Director of the BC Vegetable Marketing Commission.

Born and raised in Kelowna, John studied at the University of Victoria but soon returned to the Okanagan moving to Osoyoos in 1980. Over the years, he has owned and operated tourism and service industry businesses. He established a nursery and greenhouse business specializing in vegetable production where he became very involved in agricultural issues and organizations.









Thursday, August 26, 2010

MLA Shane Simpson Member for Vancouver - Hastings

Dearest Heavenly Father, we thank You for MLA Shane Simpson and ask for Your merciful hand to guide him and strengthen him as he represents the people of Vancouver-Hastings and performs the duties of Opposition Critic for Housing and Social Development. Thank You for the intelligence, sense of dedication, and servant's heart You have blessed Shane with. May he feel appreciated for his hard work and may he sense Your hand upon him. We pray You will refresh his spirit as he continues in service to the people of BC. We pray this in Jesus' name.

Shane Simpson was re-elected as the MLA for Vancouver-Hastings on May 12, 2009. He was first elected to the Legislature in 2005.

Shane serves as opposition critic for Housing and Social Development.

Born and raised in Vancouver, Shane has lived, worked, and engaged in community-building activities in East Vancouver for more than 35 years.

In his professional career, Shane has worked as the Director of Policy and Communications for Smart Growth BC, Chair of the Vancouver City Planning Commission, Instructor in the Community Economic Development program at Simon Fraser University, Executive Director of the Worker Ownership Resource Center, Legislative Coordinator for the Canadian Union of Public Employees, coordinator and fundraiser for the Ray Cam Cooperative Center, executive assistant to former Vancouver East MP Margaret Mitchell, and as a self-employed consultant on business and economic development for labour, co-operative and non-profit groups.

Shane was the recipient of the Queen's Golden Jubilee Medal for his contribution to community in 2002. In 1992, he was awarded the Governor General's 125th Anniversary Commemorative Medal for Community Service.

Shane, his partner Cate Jones and their daughter Shayla, live in the Burrardview neighbourhood of Vancouver Hastings.













Wednesday, August 25, 2010

MLA Bob Simpson Member for Cariboo North

God, bless and encourage Bob Simpson. As he serves as the Opposition critic for Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation grant him great depth of understanding. Give him favor with all the people of our province and particularly our Aboriginal people. May he walk with Your wisdom and grace. As he fulfills the life of duty and family, may he have great ability to balance it all well. Cover him with health and safety.

Bob Simpson was re-elected as the MLA for Cariboo North on May 12, 2009. He was first elected to the Legislature in 2005.


Bob serves as opposition critic for Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation.

A former small business owner and entrepreneur, Bob was most recently Corporate Manager, Organizational Effectiveness and Leadership Development for a major forest products company.

Born in Scotland, Bob's family immigrated to Winnipeg, Manitoba in 1967 and he moved to British Columbia in 1973 when he joined the Canadian Navy. He has two undergraduate degrees and a Teaching Certificate from the University of Victoria.

Bob is a former National Triathlon Champion in his age group and was named BC’s Male Triathlete of the Year in 2002; he is also an avid mountain biker and runner.

Bob, his wife Trish, and their two teenage children live in Quesnel.











Tuesday, August 24, 2010

MLA Nicholas Simons Member for Powell River - Sunshine Coast

Heavenly Father, we pray for Nicholas Simons today. We ask that You will bless him and continue to give him wisdom in his area of responsibility that You have placed him in. We thank You for his influence in working for the care and safety of the children within our province. We ask that You will give him insight to be more affective in this area. We ask You will give him favour and bless him, his family and staff as they rest and relax during the summer break.

Nicholas Simons was first elected as MLA for Powell River-Sunshine Coast on May 17, 2005.

Nicholas serves as deputy opposition critic for Housing and Social Development.

Nicholas has spent over fifteen years working in the areas of health, justice, social services and child welfare.

He served as the Executive Director of Health and Social Development for the Sechelt Nation from 1997 until his election in 2005. In this role he oversaw Health, Child Welfare, Alcohol and Drugs, Financial Assistance, and Justice Programs. He also negotiated funding for innovative preventative health and social services.

Prior to his employment with the Sechelt Nation, he worked as a child-protection social worker for the Ministry for Children and Family Development, as a Financial Assistance Worker, and as the Crime Prevention Coordinator for the Northwest Territories. He has been a consultant for the Federal, Northwest Territories, and First Nations governments in areas including law reform, child welfare, and legal.

He has lectured in Criminology at Simon Fraser University (SFU), in which he has a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Ottawa (1986) and a Master's degree from SFU (1993). He has taught child-protection social work to social workers working in First Nations communities.

Nicholas has been active in the arts community both as a cello teacher and performer. He has performed and recorded with local, national and international artists and is the former President of the Sunshine Coast Arts Council.






Monday, August 23, 2010

MLA Michael Sather Member for Maple Ridge - Pitt Meadows

Today, Heavenly Father, we pray for M.L.A. Michael Sather. We ask that you work in his life in such a way that he is aware that You are giving him the wisdom and strength he needs as he serves our province. We ask that today You will help him see where he can make a difference for the betterment of his constituency. Bless him as a husband and father. Help him to juggle all the responsibilities he has and help him to know that he is appreciated. Amen.

Michael Sather was re-elected as the MLA for Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows on May 12, 2009. He was first elected to the Legislature in 2005.

Michael serves as deputy opposition critic for Environment.

Michael attained a teaching certificate from the University of Alberta and taught school in Alberta. Michael later attained his Bachelor of Science in Zoology at the University of Alberta.

He moved to British Columbia in 1974 and pursued a career studying wildlife for the next ten years. In 1985 he became a wilderness guide and set up a small business as owner/operator of Hummingbird Nature Tours in Maple Ridge.

Michael also served as the Constituency Assistant to former NDP MLA Bill Hartley.

Michael attained his Masters Degree in Psychology in 1998 and was employed as a Mental Health Therapist for the Fraser Health Authority for three and a half years prior to being elected MLA.

Michael has an extensive background and experience in agriculture, education, environment, small business, social services and health care.

Michael lives with his spouse, writer and conservationist Annette LeBox. He has two stepchildren, Christian and Sara.







Sunday, August 22, 2010

MLA John Rustad Member for Nechako Lakes

We Bless John Rustad today. We ask Father that You bless him in those things that You have called him to do. Father we decree that he will seek divine wisdom causing him to be a catalyst of change to see kingdom plans come into this region and have an affect on our nation and its people.

John Rustad was re-elected to represent the newly redistributed riding of Nechako Lakes on May 12, 2009, and was appointed Parliamentary Secretary for Silviculture to the Minister of Forests and Range on June 10, 2009. He was previously elected as MLA for the riding of Prince George-Omineca in the 2005 provincial election.

John currently co-chairs the Farm Assessment Review Panel and has chaired the Select Standing Committee on Crown Corporations, the Select Standing Committee to Appoint a Police Complaint Commissioner and the Government Caucus Committee on Social Development. He was also a member of the Select Standing Committee on Children and Youth, the Select Standing Committee on Education, the Selection Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services and the Select Standing Committee on Public Accounts.

Since 2005, John has chaired the Northern Caucus of B.C. and has toured extensively throughout the North to listen and bring forward issues that affect those communities. He is also a chair of B.C.’s Outdoor Caucus and government representative to PNWER (Pacific Northwest Economic Region).

Born and raised in Prince George, John has worked in the forest industry for more than 20 years. He formed Western Geographic Information Systems Inc. in 1995, offering a consulting service to the forest industry. Previously he was the Geographic Information Systems department manager for Timberline Forest Inventory Consultants in Prince George. John also owns a woodlot license and has been involved in land development projects.

Elected as a school trustee in 2002, John has worked on innovative projects throughout the district, including the South Fort George Family Resource Centre, a project designed to combine social services from a variety of agencies. John also championed the renovation and expansion of the College Heights Secondary School (CHSS) through a self-financed project; and advocated for the new Trade and Technical Program of Excellence for Grade 10-12 students and the Healthy Choices Committee designed to promote healthy choices in diet and exercise within schools.

John and his wife Kim were married in 1995. John is an avid soccer player and he and Kim enjoy theatre, golf, skiing and the outdoors.



Thursday, August 19, 2010

MLA Doug Routley Member for Nanaimo - North Cowichan

We thank God today for Doug Routley, for his desire to serve the people of British Columbia in the political realm. We ask that You would continue to bless him with wisdom, skills and gifts needed for this work of service. We pray that with his interests in different cultures, he may be able to use that to present innovative ways of encouraging the people of British Columbia to continue to welcome the people of the world upon this land. Bless his time with his family, may they have many hours of uninterrupted time together while he is at home.

Doug Routley was elected as the MLA for Nanaimo-North Cowichan on May 12, 2009. He served as MLA for Cowichan-Ladysmith from May 17, 2005 until the riding boundaries were re-drawn.

Doug serves as opposition critic for Citizens’ Services.

Doug was born May 9, 1961 in New Westminster, BC and grew up in Duncan.

He comes from a family of educators and attended the public schools of the Cowichan Valley and attended Camosun College before traveling to Japan, where he lived and worked for one year.

Doug has experience in logging, as a sawmill worker, treeplanter and in construction. He also has been a business owner and operator, school custodian and School Trustee.

While in Japan, Doug taught English and studied Sumea, traditional Japanese ink painting. He was a bicycle racer and while training in Japan, met a bicycle manufacturer. After his return to Canada, Doug established a bicycle retail and wholesale company which had dealers throughout Canada and the USA.

Doug has two daughters, Sasha, 21 and Madeline, 13.



Wednesday, August 18, 2010

MLA Bill Routley Member for Cowichan Valley

Lord, we ask for support for Bill as he faces the challenges of every working day. Help him to feel confident and to know that his work is appreciated. Give him peace at the end of every day. Amen.

Bill Routley was elected MLA for Cowichan Valley on May 12, 2009. Bill serves as deputy opposition critic for Forests and Range.

Bill began his career in the Forest industry working at the Youbou Sawmill where he became active first as the Safety Chairman, and then as Plant Chairman. He was elected the President of IWA Local 1-80; now USW-Steelworkers Local 1-1937.

Bill served as a Pension Trustee on the IWA-Forest Industry Pension Plan. He was a member of the IWA-Forest Industry Pension Audit Committee, and was a Trustee on the IWA-Forest Industry Health and Welfare Benefit Plan. Bill's service to the community includes five years as a School Trustee in Lake Cowichan (1980 -1985).

Bill and his wife Charmaine enjoy the company of their two grown children, son Noah and daughter Alisha who have provided the gift of five wonderful grandchildren; ages four to nine years. While Bill and Charmaine currently reside in Duncan, they started their family in Youbou and then lived at Marble Bay on Lake Cowichan for many years. Bill and Charmaine were very active in Lake Cowichan with their involvement in Boy Scouts(Beavers) and Girl Guides.

Bill and Charmaine owned a home decorating business "Decorating Den" for many years.







Tuesday, August 17, 2010

MLA Linda Reid Member for Richmond East

To-day as we pray for MLA. Linda Reid , we truly give You thanks for the many years of outstanding contributions she has made for the people of BC.  Her record as a worthy candidate in her riding of Richmond East, have been proven by the constituents of her riding , who have returned her to the legislature in every election since 1991. We pray You will grant her great grace and favour and a willing heart to seek You for guidance, discernment and direction in her role as Deputy Speaker. Protect and keep her safe as she travels, and may she and her dear family be blessed with good health and happiness.
In Jesus Name , Amen.

Linda Reid was nominated as Deputy Speaker on June 10, 2009. Previously, she was Minister of State for Childcare from June 16, 2005 to June 9, 2009. She also served as Minister of State for Early Childhood Development from June 5, 2001. She was first elected in 1991 to represent the riding of Richmond East and was re-elected in 1996, 2001, 2005 and 2009.

Linda previously served in a variety of critic roles for the Official Opposition, including children and families, health, attorney general, municipal affairs, and science, technology and research.

She sits as a member of the Government Caucus Committee on Education.

Before her election to the Legislative Assembly, Linda worked as a language therapist, teacher and school administrator for the Richmond School District.

She graduated from the University of British Columbia with an education degree and earned a master of arts from UBC specializing in education, exceptional learners, language acquisition and public administration.

Linda was the BC chair for the Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind and a director of the Garden City Hospice Society. She has been active in the Richmond Chamber of Commerce, the Asia-Pacific Business Association, and the Canadian Council for Exceptional Children and the Family Court Committee of Richmond. She was a founding member of the Richmond Chinatown Lions Club and was chair of the British Columbia Youth Parliament board from 1986 to 1991.

Linda and her husband Sheldon live in Richmond and have two children – Olivia and Will.







Monday, August 16, 2010

MLA Bruce Ralston Member for Surrey-Whalley

Thank You, Lord, for Bruce Ralston and for the position he holds as Opposition Critic for Finance. We need men and women with great wisdom to be involved in the money matters for our province. We give thanks for his expertise in any number of areas that will help him to a great job on behalf of the Province of BC. We ask, Father, that You bless Bruce and his family, that You grant him favour, and that Bruce will continue to be used to bring about dynamic change in the areas he serves, both in his party and in his community.

Bruce Ralston was re-elected as the MLA for Surrey - Whalley on May 12, 2009. He was first elected to the Legislature in 2005.

Bruce serves as opposition critic for Finance. Bruce is currently the chair of the Select Standing Committee on Public Accounts. He has also been a member of the Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services since 2006.

Bruce is a lawyer in Surrey, where he has operated his own law firm for 18 years.

From 1995 to 2006, Bruce was elected to four consecutive terms as a member of the VanCity Savings Credit Union board of directors. He served as the chair of the board from 2001 to 2003. In 2003 BC Business magazine recognized Bruce as one of BC’s leading five board chairs. From 2003 until 2005, Bruce acted as the chair of the board of VanCity Enterprises, a VanCity subsidiary with a mandate to provide innovative housing solutions throughout the Lower Mainland.

Bruce also served on the Surrey City Council from 1988 to 1993, where he promoted planned development for healthy neighbourhoods for Surrey families. He is a former board member of Surrey Memorial Hospital and the Surrey Public Library.

A former president of the BC NDP, Bruce was born in Victoria and grew up in Vancouver. He has degrees in history and law from the University of British Columbia and a degree in history from the University of Cambridge in England.

Bruce is married to Miriam Sobrino. They have three children, 20, 18 and 15, who grew up in Whalley and attended public schools in Surrey and New Westminster. The elder two attend Canadian universities, while the youngest is entering Grade 10. The family is active in their community through a number of community and sports organizations.










Sunday, August 15, 2010

MLA Lana Popham Member for Saanich South

Heavenly Father, we thank You today for the opportunity to pray for M.L.A. Lana Popham. We ask that You give her wisdom and strength to carry the passions she has for the well-being of her constituency and the province of B.C. May she know that she is making a difference. Bless her as a wife and mother and give her wisdom in balancing all areas of her life. May You bring people into her life today that will let her know that she is appreciated as a servant of our province. Amen.

Lana Popham was elected as a Member of the British Columbia Legislative Assembly for the Constituency of Saanich South on May 12, 2009.

She is also the New Democratic Opposition Critic for the Ministry of Agriculture and Lands.

Lana was raised on Quadra Island and has an undergraduate degree from the University of British Columbia.

Lana has an extensive track record as a community leader, advocate and environmental activist. For example, her recent contributions include being a:

Member of Saanich's Planning, Transportation and Economic Development Committee,

President the Vancouver Island Grape Growers Association,

Chair of the Certification Committee for the Islands Organic Producers Association,

Commissioner on the Peninsula Agricultural Commission, and a
Voting Member of the Agri-Food Initiative Advisory Committee.

In late 2007, Lana launched a campaign called “Think Outside the Bag” to reduce the use of disposable bags. While initially dismissed by cynics, in less than two years this campaign has helped to dramatically change how consumers use plastic bags and contributed to a sea change with many grocery stores and other retailers no longer offering them.

Lana has lived in Saanich South since 1996. She is married to Jon Popham, a fire-fighter, and has one young son. The family owns and operates Barking Dog Vineyard, the first certified organic vineyard on Vancouver Island.














Thursday, August 12, 2010

MLA Hon Mary Polak Langley Minister of Children and Family Development and Minister Responsible for Child Care

Father we pray today for Hon Mary Polak. Our families are the heart of society and as our families are well so is our country. I pray Lord that as decisions come up that must be made or policies put into place, that Gods will and His kingdom come and that a safe guard will be put into place against those things that would tear down the core of our nations fabric. We ask for a spirit of wisdom to lead Mary in all that she puts her hand to.

Mary Polak was appointed Minister of Children and Family Development and Minister Responsible for Child Care on June 10, 2009. She was re-elected to the B.C. Legislature in 2009, having represented the constituents of Langley since 2005.

Prior to her new Cabinet post, Mary served as the Minister of Healthy Living and Sport and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health for the Conversation on Health.

Also, Mary previously sat on the Cabinet Committee on New Relationship Coordination and the Government Caucus Committee on Social Development as well as on the Government Caucus Committee for Natural Resources and the Economy, the Select Standing Committees for Children and Youth, Education and Public Accounts, the Cabinet Committee on Agenda Development and the Special Committee to Review the Personal Information Protection Act.

Before being elected to the Legislative Assembly, Mary Polak was director of operations for a small polling and research firm and a trustee and former chair of the Surrey School Board. Under her leadership, Surrey became the first school district in B.C. to balance its books according to generally accepted accounting principles. She also led an initiative to make Surrey the first school district in the province to publish school-by-school results for both elementary and secondary schools.

Throughout her nine years in local government, Mary has worked with many regional and provincial organizations. As a representative to the Lower Mainland Consortium of School Districts for Successful Settlement, she twice presented briefs to the Federal Immigration Commission. In the mid 1990s, Mary chaired the Council of British Columbia School Districts and in 2003, was elected to the board of directors of the British Columbia School Trustees Association.

Mary lives happily in the Willoughby area of Langley.







Wednesday, August 11, 2010

MLA Pat Pimm Member for Peace River South

Dearest Heavenly Father, It is with thankful hearts we come to You today and pray for Pat Pimm who is our MLA for Peace River North. We acknowledge Your hand in setting him as a leader of our province and ask that You equip him with all that he needs to accomplish the many tasks set before him.  Bless him for his willingness to serve his community and province and help him to be an even more effective leader.  We are grateful for the many gifts You have bestowed upon him and ask that You continue to bless him and his family, in Jesus mighty name Amen.

Pat Pimm was elected MLA for Peace River North in the 2009 provincial election.

Upon being sworn in to office, Pat was appointed as the Chair of the Northern Caucus and currently sits on three Select Standing Committees: Crown Corporations, Parliamentary Reform and Legislative Initiatives. In June 2010, Pat was appointed a member of Treasury Board.

A long-time resident of the Peace River region, Pat served twelve years as councillor for the City of Fort St. John from 1993-2005. For six years, he was chair of city hall’s Finance Committee, responsible for overseeing the municipality’s budget process.

With 25 years experience in the oil and gas industry, he was co-chair of the BC Oil and Gas Conference in 2002 and 2005, bringing together industry stakeholders to identify further strategies and opportunities for economic development in British Columbia’s northeast region. He has also served on a variety of other local community boards and committees.

Pat possesses an extensive background in the construction industry. He is president of Alpha Controls Ltd, a company that provides construction, maintenance, and electrician services for numerous projects. He is also a director and vice-president of the North Peace Construction Association.

Pat is a director of the British Columbia Golf Association and past president of the Lake Point Golf and Country Club. He is a long-time youth sports volunteer, having coached golf, hockey, and minor league fastball. He enjoys travel, curling, and playing hockey. Pat is married to Jody and the father of two daughters and two sons.







Tuesday, August 10, 2010

MLA Hon Barry Penner Chilliwack-Hope Minister of Environment

We come together and ask that You God of all the Earth would bless Barry Penner today. We ask that You would give Barry the wisdom to make wise decisions on behalf of the people of British Columbia in the area of stewardship of our environment. Thank You for his many years of service, may he continue to be able to do this with in good health and much enthusiasm and joy.

Barry Penner was re-elected as MLA to represent the new riding of Chilliwack-Hope in the spring of 2009.

Barry was first elected to represent Chilliwack in 1996, and was re-elected in the new riding of Chilliwack-Kent in 2001 and 2005.

Mr. Penner was appointed Minister of Environment on June 10, 2009.

Barry was raised in Chilliwack. He studied political science and economics at Simon Fraser University to earn his Bachelor of Arts degree. He later earned his law degree from the University of Victoria. A former park ranger and sawmill worker, Barry also worked as a B.C. Legislative intern in Victoria. In 1991, he worked for an International law firm in Bangkok, Thailand and then later practiced law in Chilliwack until his election in 1996.

Barry previously served as Parliamentary Secretary to the Government House Leader, as Chair of the Government Caucus Committee on Natural Resources, and was a member of the Legislature's Standing Committee on Crown Corporations.

Barry was appointed by Premier Campbell as the co-chair of B.C.’s Alternative Energy and Power Technology Task Force in April 2005.

He has also chaired the Legislature’s Standing Committee on Parliamentary Reform, Ethical Conduct, Standing Orders and Private Bills, and served as a member of the Legislature's Select Standing Committee on Aboriginal Affairs, and the Cabinet Committee for Legislative Review.

Premier Campbell appointed Barry in 2001 to lead BC's delegation to the Pacific Northwest Economic Region (PNWER). He served as President of PNWER from June 2002 to July 2003 and remains active in PNWER issues.

Barry represents and lives in the electoral district of Chilliwack-Hope.





Monday, August 9, 2010

MLA Michelle Mungall Member for Nelson - Creston

We lift up Michelle Mungall in prayer today and give thanks for this young woman who has broken ground in a number of areas. We pray that she will be seen as an example of what young people can accomplish when their minds are set on a positive course of action. We pray that Michelle will excell in all that she sets her hands and heart to accomplish during her time within the government framework. We pray for her safety and ask that she be given strength to stay the course

At the age of 31 years-old, Michelle became the first woman elected as MLA in Nelson-Creston. Seven years earlier, in 2002, she set another record as the youngest person ever elected to Nelson City Council.

Michelle serves as deputy opposition critic for Advanced Education and Labour Market Development.

Her university studies and her career in community development eventually brought her to Zambia, where she worked to better the lives of girls with HIV/AIDS. Michelle served as Nelson City Councillor (2002-2005); Community Coordinator, Nelson Committee on Homelessness; National Programs Assistant, YWCA Zambia; and managed the Nelson food security and micro-finance non-profit organizations.

Michelle holds a BA (Honours) in Political Science from University of Alberta and a MA in Human Security and Peacebuilding from Royal Roads University.

She was the 2008 Recipient of the National Social Sciences Humanities Research Council Joseph-Armand Bombardier Canada Graduate Scholarship and is bilingual in English and French.

Michelle and her partner Zak reside in their Nelson home. They enjoy skiing, hiking, local arts and being active in the region.











Sunday, August 8, 2010

MLA Don McRae Member for Comox Valley

Heavenly Father, we pray for Don McRae today. We ask that You will him in his area of influence especially with First Nations. This is a delicate area within our province so we ask for wisdom for him and his staff. We ask for favour and blessing in the various areas he serves within our province. Most of all we ask that Don, his family and staff will have opportunities to rest and be refreshed this summer.

Don McRae was elected on May 12, 2009 as MLA for the riding of Comox Valley. Don is the Convener of the Select Standing Committee on Aboriginal Affairs and is a member of the Select Standing Committee on Health and Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services.

Don was born and raised in the Comox Valley. For the past 14 years he has taught at GP Vanier Secondary School. Aside from teaching Social Studies, Military History, and Psychology, he has also served as a rugby coach, athletic director, department chair, and Staff Leadership Committee Chair.

Don has served as a Courtenay City Councillor for the past seven years. During his time on council, he has served as a municipal director for both the Comox Strathcona Regional District and the newly restructured Comox Valley Regional District. He has also been a member of the Comox Strathcona Hospital Board, vice-chair of the Comox Valley Sewer and Water Committees and numerous community organizations and boards. In 2008, he was also appointed by Premier Campbell to the Citizen’s Conservation Council.

He is an avid jogger and enjoys hiking and fly fishing. Don has been married to his wife Deanne for 14 years and they have a six year old daughter, Gracie Ava.






Friday, August 6, 2010

Rock and Mudslide Near Pemberton

A massive rock and mudslide caused by a melting glacier has resulted in an evacuation warning being posted for Pemberton. The warning affects over 4000 people. We recognize that God is always in control and that this slide and threat is not a surprise to Him. We ask you to pray that there will be no loss of life in this situation and that God will keep His hand upon every aspect of this situation and that He would grant wisdom to protection services and those who will be making critical decisions in this matter.

UPDATE!
The evacuation has been lifted as of this afternoon.  There has been no damage to property or loss of life.  Two missing hikers were found safe.

Thursday, August 5, 2010

MLA Hon. Mary McNeil Vancouver-False Creek Minister of Citizens' Services and Minister Responsible for Multiculturalism and the Public Affairs Bureau

Thank You that You have placed Mrs. McNeil in the position of Minister of State for the Olympics and Act Now BC. As all the debriefing and winding down now takes place in the aftermath of the Olympics, please give Mrs. McNeil wisdom and understanding. May You fulfill your good purpose for athletes and others through the Act Now BC initiative, and may Mrs. McNeil be a wise steward of the funds at her disposal.

Mary McNeil was appointed Minister of Citizen Services on June 11, 2010. She previously served as Minister of State for The Olympics and Actnow BC.

Minister McNeil was elected MLA for Vancouver-False Creek in the 2009 general provincial election.

Most recently, Mary served as president and CEO of the BC Cancer Foundation for eight years. She has served in key roles for international economic events including the G7 meetings in Halifax and Toronto, APEC in Vancouver and the XI international conference on AIDS. Mary has also served on the Vancouver Police Board for four years.

Mary was born and educated in Vancouver and has lived in Yaletown for 11 years with her husband of 38 years, Rod. She has raised four daughters and currently has eleven grandchildren.





Wednesday, August 4, 2010

MLA Joan McIntyre Member for West Vancouver-Sea to Sky

We thank You Lord for Joan McIntyre and her faithfulness in serving the riding of West Vancouver- Sea to Sky.  We ask that as she takes on the many tasks You have set before her, that You continue to equip her with wisdom and effectiveness in all that she sets her hands to. We know that You Lord have placed Joan in this position for this time and would ask that You give her discernment and understanding in the Committees she has so willingly offered to serve. Bless Joan and her family with health, stamina and protection.
We ask this in Jesus name Amen.

Joan McIntyre was first elected in the riding of West Vancouver-Garibaldi in the 2005 provincial general election and re-elected in the riding of West Vancouver-Sea to Sky in 2009.

Joan was appointed to the Agenda and Priorities Committee on June 10, 2009. She previously served as Minister of State for Intergovernmental Relations.

In 1980, Joan co-founded the well-known BC polling firm of McIntyre & Mustel Research Associates Ltd. She sold her interest in 1996 to work independently and to concentrate more on the qualitative side of the research business.

Throughout her career, Joan has conducted political research and provided counsel on many campaigns. She has also mentored and encouraged young people to become engaged in the political process to ensure they have a direct say in their future.

A long time supporter of the 2010 Olympic Bid, Joan was appointed in 2002 to a communications advisory committee for the Bid and was fortunate to be in Prague for the winning IOC announcement.

Joan currently sits on two Cabinet Committees, Agenda Development and Legislative Review and is a member on the Agricultural Planning Government Caucus Committee. She has served as the Deputy Chair of the Select Standing Committee on Public Accounts, and was a member on the Select Standing Committee on Crown Corporations.

Joan grew up in Toronto, Ontario, and attended the University of Toronto's Trinity College. She graduated with an Honours BA in Political Science in 1971. An avid skier and sailor, Joan takes full advantage of living in one of the healthiest and active ridings in Canada.

Joan and her husband Andrew Pottinger have lived in West Vancouver since 1983 and they have two children, Leigh and Drew.





Tuesday, August 3, 2010

MLA Norm Macdonald Member for Columbia River - Revelstoke

We lift up Norm MacDonald today and give thanks for his position as Opposition Critic in the area of Forest and Range and Integrated Land Management. We pray that he will be able to apply his gift of teaching as pertinent information is brought to the forefront, and as there is need for explanations pertaining to these large areas of responsibility. Place into Norm’s hands all the resources that will help him to do the best job possible. Keep him healthy and watch over him, we ask in Jesus’ Name.

Norm Macdonald was re-elected as the MLA for Columbia River-Revelstoke on May 12, 2009. He was first elected to the Legislature in 2005.

Norm serves as opposition critic for Forest and Range and Integrated Land Management.

Recently the principal of Nicholson Elementary School, Norm has taught for more than 15 years in the Columbia Valley.

He has a further six years experience teaching in Africa.

Norm served as a Councillor and was then elected Mayor of Golden in 1996.

Norm Macdonald lives in Golden with his wife Karen and two teenage daughters.







Monday, August 2, 2010

MLA Hon.Dr. Margaret MacDiarmid Vancouver-Fairview Minister of Education and Minister Responsible for Early Learning and Literacy

Creator: As Margaret comes into each day, help her to find the right path. As her constituents call on her for support and advice, help her to find clarity easily. As she looks back on her working day, may she see her efforts as valued and appreciated. Amen.

Dr. Margaret MacDiarmid was appointed Minister of Education and Minister Responsible for Early Learning and Literacy on June 10, 2009.

 Minister MacDiarmid was elected MLA for Vancouver-Fairview in the 2009 general provincial election.

Margaret has been a family physician for 23 years. She served on the board of the BC Medical Association for 12 years and was president in 2006-2007. The BCMA is a voluntary association of 11,000 members comprised of British Columbia's physicians, medical residents, and medical students. During her time with the BCMA, Margaret met with key leaders from government and other organizations.

Margaret experienced the health care system as a patient after an early diagnosis of breast cancer in 2007. She received treatment and has fully recovered.

Originally from Saskatchewan, Margaret and her husband Robert moved to Rossland, BC in 1989. Since the mid-1990s, both Robert’s and Margaret’s work brought them more frequently to Vancouver, where ultimately they decided to settle. Margaret enjoys golf, bridge, playing piano, kayaking and treasures the time she spends with family and friends.










Sunday, August 1, 2010

MLA Norm Letnick Member for Kelowna-Lake Country

Heavenly Father, we uplift M.L.A. Norm Letnick to You. May he be aware today of Your reality and Your availability to him. May Mr. Letnick, in all his responsibilities and interests, receive Your wisdom and strength. May he know that he is making a difference in his Kelowna-Lake Country riding and throughout our province. Bless him as a husband and father and may You help him set his priorities. Amen.

Norm was elected as MLA for Kelowna-Lake Country on May 12, 2009 in the provincial general election.

Norm is the Chair of the Select Standing Committee on Parliamentary Reform, Ethical Conduct, Standing Orders, and Private Bills and is on the Select Standing Committees on Public Accounts as well as Finance and Government Services. He is also the President, Francophone Parliamentary Assembly, B.C. Section.

His previous community service experience includes serving on Kelowna City Council from 2005-2008, the Kelowna Rotary and Gyro Clubs, and a council member of St. Charles Garnier Parish. Norm has served on the city’s Housing Committee, the Downtown Entertainment District Task Force, the Parks, Recreation, and Culture Task Forces, and as chair of the city’s Affordable and Special Needs Housing Task Force.

As well, Norm represented the central Okanagan on the province’s single business license implementation committee which resulted in reduced cost and red tape for mobile businesses throughout the Okanagan/Similkameen, and he worked as the selection process leader on the City of Kelowna’s Roads Task Force which recommended transportation network access improvements to the new W. R. Bennett Bridge.

Before moving to Kelowna, Norm lived in Banff and owned two H&R Block franchises, a Motorola dealership, and a computer store. He served on the Banff Tourism Bureau, as president of the Banff Rotary Club, secretary/treasurer of the Banff Shine Club, and was chairman of both the Banff Hospital Board and Municipal Planning Commission. Norm also served the Banff community as a city councillor, first elected in 1992 and re-elected in 1995. He was also president of the Banff Housing Corporation developing over $20 million in affordable housing.

Before being called to Provincial service, Norm was an instructor in the business program at Okanagan College and he holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from the University of Calgary, a Master of Business Administration degree from Heriot-Watt University Edinburgh, and is currently working toward a Ph.D. in health economics at UBC Okanagan, focusing on international research to improve health care for British Columbians.

Norm was the 2009 recipient of the Canadian Cancer Society’s Regional Community Champion Award for his work with the Gala of Hope helping to fund raise $624,000 over three years.

He is bilingual in English and French, enjoys sports, reading, good movies and helping others reach their full potential. He and his wife Helene have three children.