Wednesday, October 31, 2012

MLA: Carole James - Victoria-Beacon Hill

Father, we are thankful for MLA: Carole James and her willingness over the years to serve the people of our great province. We would ask that You would continually keep her in good health and may she experience Your blessings and favour upon her life each day. May she feel encouraged even when the "going seems tough".  We pray that she would find herself refreshed and strengthened by You. Bless her family and give them strength and peace.  In Jesus name, we ask these things.  Amen.

Carole has served as the MLA for Victoria-Beacon Hill since 2005 and serves as the official opposition critic for Social Development.

Prior to entering provincial politics, Carole served as President of the B.C. School Trustees Association for an unprecedented five terms, commencing in 1995.

She was elected to the Greater Victoria School Board from 1990 to 2001. She has also served at the national level as the Vice-President of the Canadian School Boards Association.

Carole has been appointed to numerous provincial initiatives, including the Independent B.C. Budget Review Panel, the Public Education Restructuring Consultation, the Ministry of Children and Families Secure Care Committee.

In addition to serving a two-year term as the Director of Child Care Policy for the government of British Columbia, she has served 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.

Carole is the mother of two children, Alison and Evan. She was also a foster parent for 20 years, giving care to children and adults with special needs.

Tuesday, October 30, 2012

MLA: Vicki Huntington - Delta South

We ask, Lord, that You would bless MLA: Vicki Huntington, especially today.  We give thanks for her many years of faithful service at all levels of government.  Give her wisdom and understanding as she brings leadership to the people of Delta South and the issues that are being dealt with in that riding. May she also find time in her busy schedule to find refreshing and rest. We pray that You would continue to guide her and the doors that need to be opened for Vicki would open and those doors that need to be closed would close. We thank You for Your blessing on her life and may she sense your peace. Amen.

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.

Monday, October 29, 2012

MLA: Rob Howard - Richmond Centre

Father, we thank You for MLA: Rob Howard and his dedication to serving the public both locally in Richmond and provincially.  We ask that You would bless him and his family. May his family be encouraged and be strengthened in the times that he is not able to be with them.  We ask for wisdom and guidance for Rob in his role in the Jobs and Training area of the cabinet. Lord, we ask that You would give him strategies for training workers that he would be able to share with his colleagues and that would have a positive impact on our economy in British Columbia.  We ask for Your blessing on his life. Amen.

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

Rob served as the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Transportation with a specific focus on air services agreements. He now serves as a member of the Cabinet Committee on Jobs and Skills Training.

Rob was born and raised in Richmond and has raised his son Justin here with his wife Trudy. Rob ran his own business, a commercial real estate and seniors’ home management company, prior to becoming an MLA. He has also been involved in many aspects of Richmond life, including a twelve-year involvement with the Richmond Minor Hockey Association.

Rob is a past president of Tourism Richmond, and he has served on the Board of the Richmond Caring Place Society. Rob was also co-chair of the Vancouver Chapter of the Real Estate Institute of British Columbia and is a long-time member of the Richmond Chamber of Commerce.

Rob served as a councillor for the City of Richmond for seven years (2001-2008). During his time on Richmond City Council, he served as the chair of the Finance Committee, as well as the Community Safety and the Public Works and Transportation Committees. Rob was also the Council representative to the Economic Advisory Committee, the Heritage Commission, the Richmond Safe Communities Alliance, the Richmond Sister City Committee, the Minoru Seniors Society, and the Olympic Oval Building Committee.

Rob served as council liaison to the RAV Rapid Transit Task Force, the Economic Development Task Force and Blue Ribbon Business Round Table. Rob also served as a director on the Board of the Lower Mainland Local Government Association.

Provincially, Rob has served on the Select Standing Committee on Public Accounts and the Special Committee to Appoint an Information and Privacy Commissioner. He also served on the Special Committee to Appoint a Representative for Children and Youth and the Special Committee to Appoint an Ombudsperson.

Rob served as the chair of the Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services for the pre-budget consultations for Budget 2012.

 

Sunday, October 28, 2012

MLA: Douglas Horne - Coquitlam-Burke Mountain

Father, we are grateful for MLA: Douglas Horne and his commitment to the people of British Columbia. May You continue to develop his ability to explain effectively and succinctly a problem and then the vision, direction and steps necessary to alleviate the problem. We pray that he would be that strength, support and encouragement to our Premier that You want him to be in his role as her Parliamentary Secretary. Keep his family unified and protected. Amen. 

Douglas Horne was appointed Parliamentary Secretary to the Premier on September 5, 2012.

He was elected as the MLA for the electoral district of Coquitlam-Burke Mountain in May, 2009. He is currently Deputy Chair of the Committee of the Whole (Chair – Committee of Supply), a Member of the Executive Council’s Legislative Review Committee, the Deputy Chair of the Select Standing Committee for Public Accounts, a Member of the Select Standing Committee for Children and Youth, and Chair of the Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services.

In addition, Douglas was previously a Member of the Provincial Treasury Board, a Member of the B.C. Local Government Elections Task Force, a Member of the Special Committee to Review the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, and a Member of the Special Committee to Appoint a Merit Commissioner.

Douglas has been active in federal, provincial and civic politics for many years. While working in Ottawa, he served as a Special Assistant to a former federal Minister, and as a Special Assistant to the former Speaker of the House of Commons, The Honourable John Fraser.

Before entering politics, Douglas was Managing Director – Corporate and 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 and Expos, visitor centres and destination resorts. Douglas was instrumental in the success of British Columbia – Canada Place (the log house) during the 2006 Winter Games in Torino, Italy. In addition, Douglas worked with Russian business leaders and the City of Sochi on their successful bid to host the 2014 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games. As well, Maple Leaf Studios and its partner, Shanghai Art-Design (a member of the Shanghai Media Group) were selected by Shanghai Expo 2010 for the central theme pavilions preliminary design competition.

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

Thursday, October 25, 2012

MLA: John Horgan - Juan de Fuca

God, we thank You for MLA: John Horgan and ask that You would continue to lead and guide him. Increase his ability to be that visionary that you are calling him to be. May You continue to bring him into contact with those people and organizations that will help fulfill his vision for the future of our province. We thank You for his enthusiasm and pray that it would become contagious and as a result help him to accomplish all of the things that he puts his hands to. May You ensure that even in the midst of his busy schedule that he and his family will always find those times together just enjoying being in each others' company. 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 Official Opposition House Leader and is the 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. 

Wednesday, October 24, 2012

MLA: Gordon Hogg - Surrey-White Rock

Father we are blessed to have MLA: Gordon Hogg as a member of our legislature. We thank You for the lifetime of experience he has in the public sector. We pray that You would continue to use him, his knowledge and numerous contacts that he has developed over the years to improve the quality of life for the average British Columbian. Continue to encourage him as he works diligently to bring about those changes that are dear to him. May he also find that his time with family and close firends is supernaturally revitalizing and refreshing. We ask this in Jesus' 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 is currently the government caucus chair and is Parliamentary Secretary for Non-profit Partnerships to the Minister of Social Development. He also serves on various committees, including the Cabinet Committee on Families First and the Cabinet Committee on Open Government and Engagement.

Previously, he served as Parliamentary Secretary for Social Entrepreneurship to the Minister of Finance and a member of the Select Standing Committees on Education, Aboriginal Affairs and Crown Corporations. He is also the former Minister of State for Mining, Minister of State for ActNow BC and Minister of Children and Family Development.

He previously served as Minister of State for ActNow BC and Minister of Children and Family Development.

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, Gordon 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.

Gordon 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

He 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.  

Tuesday, October 23, 2012

MLA: Kash Heed - Vancouver-Fraserview

 
Lord we lift up MLA: Kash Heed to You today. We pray he would sense Your love and goodness as he works in his constituency. May he feel encouraged as he serves the people in his community and the province. With so many tasks at hand, we pray You would give him strength and wisdom to carry these out. Bless him and his family with good health. As he prepares to leave his position as MLA, we pray You would give him direction in all his future endeavors. 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.

Kash 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.

Monday, October 22, 2012

MLA: Dave S. Hayer - Surrey-Tynehead

Father in heaven, thank You for MLA: Dave Hayer and for his willingness and dedication to serve You in government. Help him in his committee work to contribute Your wisdom and good judgement. May he sense Your joy and peace during his very busy schedule. We pray he will have meaningful and refreshing times with his family. We also ask that You would help Dave to finish strong in his role as MLA. May You lead, direct and bless him and as he prepares to make a change with his career. 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.

Dave is a member of the Cabinet Committee for Families First, the Select Standing Committee on Finance and Government Services, the Select Standing Committee on Health and the Convener of the Select Standing Committee on Legislative Initiatives as well as acting as Deputy Chair of Committee of Supply, as required throughout session.

Dave formerly served as the Parliamentary Secretary for Multiculturalism and Immigration from 2005 -2011, where he worked closely with the Minister of Science and Universities and the Minister of Regional Economic and Skills Development, which was responsible for the Provincial Nominee Program.

Dave previously worked with the Attorney General of British Columbia, the Minister of Regional Economic and Skills Development and various Ministers of Citizens' Services and Ministers Responsible for Multiculturalism and the Public Affairs Bureau.

Dave has also served as Chair of the 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 and Diversity and the 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, member of the Select Standing Committees on Education, member of the Select Standing Committee on Health, member of the Select Standing Committee on Parliamentary Reform, Ethical Conduct, Standing Orders and Private Bills and member of the Select Standing Committees on 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.

In 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 by the President of India, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, at a ceremony in New Delhi, India on January 9, 2007 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” as having been a strong voice in the Indo-Canadian community against terrorism and violence". He was the only Canadian among 15 people to receive the Pravasi Bharatia Samman Award that year and to date Dave is only the second Canadian to be presented with this honour.

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. Dave is also a recipient of the Rotary Club of Surrey's Paul Harris Fellow award. A Paul Harris Fellowship is "recognition of exceptional service" to the community and to the world. In addition, Dave is a recipient of the Golden Jubilee medal of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II  to commemorate the Fiftieth Anniversary of Her Majesty’s Reign as Queen of Canada.

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 worked in the restaurant, newspaper, construction, transportation and forestry industries. In addition, Dave has worked as a labourer in a steel factory and during his teenage years worked on farms, in greenhouses, in a grocery store and even delivered both the Sun and Province newspapers.

Dave also 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 earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration from Simon Fraser University in 1982 and during 1981 and 1982 he completed taxation and Executive Management courses at the University of British Columbia. He also attended Douglas College from 1977 to 1979 and completed the Tax Course at BCIT.

Dave's current involvements include membership in: the Rotary Club of Surrey, Whalley Royal Canadian Legion, Surrey Board of Trade and the Cloverdale District Chamber of Commerce an honorary member of the Vancouver Board of Trade and Simon Fraser University’s India Advisory Council which supports SFU's strategic initiatives in India and engagement with BC's Indo-Canadian diaspora.

Some previous community and business involvements include: Rotary Club of Surrey president (1999-2000); Surrey Community Crime Prevention Society president (1995-96); Surrey Chamber of Commerce president (1996-97); BC Chamber of Commerce director (1999-2001); 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); City of Surrey Economic Development Strategy Advisory Committee member (1995-2000); South Fraser Child Development Centre Christmas Party chair (1988-2001); and Surrey & White Rock Home Support Association director (94-95). As well, Dave created the Surrey Police Officer of the Year Awards and initiated the building of the Surrey Chamber of Commerce (now Board of Trade) Building.

Dave Sukhdip Singh Hayer was born in 1958 in India. He moved to Surrey with his family in 1972 and has lived in the Surrey Guildford, Tynehead and Fraser Heights areas since 1976. He and Isabelle Martinez, whom he married in 1981, have four children. Dave enjoys working on community projects, reading, swimming and walking.

Sunday, October 21, 2012

MLA: Randy Hawes - Abbotsford-Mission

Thank You Lord for MLA: Randy Hawes and all the years he has given to public service. At present, he is involved with many important  projects. We pray You would give him Your wisdom and insights to complete these projects and to better our province. We pray Randy will have good judgement in his dealings with his constituents and different organizations. As he is preparing to leave his position as MLA, we pray he will finish with excellence all the tasks you have called him to carry out. Bless Randy and his family at this time and in the future. Amen.

Randy Hawes was named Parliamentary Secretary for Natural Resource Operations Review to the Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations on March 14, 2011. He also serves on the Treasury Board and the Environment and Land Use Committee. Randy 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.

Thursday, October 18, 2012

MLA: Colin Hansen - Vancouver-Quilchena

 
Thank You, Lord, for MLA: Colin Hansen’s many years of service to the people of this province.  We pray that Your hand would continue to guide his life and bless his work.  Make him aware of those who genuinely need his help and enable him to contribute to their well-being.  Give him the strength and endurance he needs and let him know that his efforts are appreciated.  Bless his family with health and wholeness and may they be aware of Your presence in their lives.  Amen.

MLA Colin Hansen was first elected in 1996 to represent the electoral district of Vancouver-Quilchena and was re-elected in 2001, 2005 and 2009.

Colin serves on the Treasury Board.  He was re-appointed Minister of Finance and appointed Deputy Premier on June 10, 2009. He was given additional responsibility for Small Business on October 25, 2010, and served in both these roles until March 14, 2011. 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).

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.

Wednesday, October 17, 2012

MLA: Sue Hammell - Surrey-Green Timbers

 
Lord, surround MLA:Sue Hammell today and in the days to come with Your wisdom and guidance.  May her thoughts and plans be established by You. Give her the ability to discern what is of real value. May she be filled with a healthy compassion and speak truth that is recognized and acted upon.  Bless her family members; may love and faithfulness never leave them and may they win favor and a good name with all people. We pray in Jesus' name, Amen.

Sue Hammell was re-elected as the MLA for Surrey-Green Timbers on May 12, 2009. She was first elected in 1991, and re-elected in both 1996 and 2005.

Sue serves as Official Opposition Deputy House Leader and is the opposition critic for Women’s Issues, Child Care and Early Learning.

Sue has served in a number of cabinet positions during her political career, including Minister of Housing, Recreation and Consumer Services, Minister Responsible for Co-operatives, and the Minister for Women's Equality. In addition, she was Government Caucus Chair and was active on several legislative committees.

Sue is also a founding member of the Minerva Foundation for BC Women, initiated in 1999 to provide funds for projects that will assist women to realize their potential and to create a safe place for them to live and work in British Columbia.

Sue has been working with Washington DC based National Democratic Institute since 2000. With NDI she traveled to the Middle East five times to work with emerging political parties and female candidates.

In 2002 Sue worked with the Surrey Aboriginal Society as their Executive Director. She developed the Society into a modern urban centre for aboriginal people with an annual budget of over 2 million dollars.

Born in Vancouver, Sue was raised on Sea Island in Richmond. After graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Education from the University of British Columbia, she taught in Verdun, Quebec, in Courtenay and Surrey.

Sue is married and has one grown daughter, Sage. Sue and her husband John have lived in the Surrey Green Timbers area since 1990.

Tuesday, October 16, 2012

MLA: Guy Gentner - Delta North

 
Lord we ask You to bless MLA: Guy Gentner in the many duties he fulfills.  Give him clarity and the ability to make good judgments; lead him into opportunities that will be for the benefit of his constituents and the people of our province.  Fill his heart with Your grace and peace and may his family be aware of Your love and care for them. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen

Guy Gentner was re-elected as the MLA for Delta North on May 12, 2009. He was first elected to the Legislature May 17, 2005.

Guy serves as opposition critic for Public Health and Sport.

Guy Gentner served as a Delta Councillor from 1999 to 2005. As chair of the Delta Parks, Recreation and Culture Commission, Guy re-organized the department to include a significant capitalization program for parks, recreation and the arts.

Guy’s efforts as chair of the commission were instrumental in the delivery of an enhanced Sun God Aquatic Centre, Mackie Park Artificial Turf Field, improvements to the Watershed Park and the new Fire Hall Centre for the Arts.

Guy also chaired Delta’s Planning and Environment Committee and Traffic and Safety Committee and served on many municipal committees including Finance, Foreshore and Harbours, Tour de Delta, and the GVRD’s Parks Committee. Guy’s community involvement consists of Delta’s Heritage Advisory Commission, Delta’s Board of Variance and the Delta Arts Council.

Guy helped form the North Delta/Newton Public Hospital Society, and is also a past president of the North Delta Ratepayers Association and former vice-president of the Burns Bog Conservation Society.

Through the mayor’s bog task force, Guy contributed to the negotiating process that helped public purchase of Burns Bog.

Guy graduated from Simon Fraser University, drove a bus for many years, fly fishes and is an advocate for outdoor recreation.

Monday, October 15, 2012

MLA: Scott Fraser - Alberni-Pacific Rim

 
Father, we thank You for the strength that You have imparted to MLA: Scott Fraser. Strength of character, integrity and the ability to understand the complexities that he faces in his every day life. We ask that You would further strengthen him and that he would see clearly the issues that stand before him as he makes decisions that affect not only his personal life but also those of the people that live in this great province. In Jesus' name, we pray.

Scott Fraser was elected as the MLA for Alberni-Pacific Rim on May 12, 2009. He served as MLA for Alberni-Qualicum from May 17, 2005 until the riding boundaries were re-drawn.

Scott serves as opposition critic for Aboriginal Relations.

From 1996 to 1999 Scott served as the mayor of the District of Tofino and was involved in the creation of the first UNESCO World Biosphere designation in British Columbia.

Scott has also served on many organizations, including Alberni Clayoquot Regional District Board, Vancouver Island Regional Library Board, Clayoquot Sound Central Region Board, Tourism British Columbia, Vancouver Island Health Board, Tofino/Long Beach Chamber of Commerce, treaty advisory committees, fisheries committees and the Family Court Committee.

Scott was born in Ottawa, Ontario and has been a resident of BC since 1980. His background includes small business, labour, harbour management, fisheries and shellfish aquaculture.

Scott lived in Tofino with his wife and daughter for over 12 years. They now live in the Qualicum Beach area.

Sunday, October 14, 2012

MLA: Eric Foster - Vernon-Monashee

 
Father, we thank You for MLA: Eric Foster and for his service to the people of British Columbia and the change that he has instigated to make our province better. We ask, Father,  that You would keep him in a place of peace in this next season and that he will know that his steps are ordered by You. Keep him and his family healthy and prosperous.  Amen.

Eric Foster was elected on May 12, 2009 as MLA for Vernon-Monashee in the general provincial election.

Eric is the Government Whip and currently a member of the Environment and Land Use Committee. He served previously on the Select Standing Committees on Legislative Initiatives, and Parliamentary Reform, Ethical Conduct, Standing Orders, and Private Bills. Eric was also a member of the Cabinet Agenda and Priorities Committee.

Serving as the Mayor of the Village of Lumby for four years prior to his election as MLA, Eric also served as councilor for the Village of Lumby for 12 years and as a director of the North Okanagan Regional District.

He is a registered forest technician and a member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Auxiliary, as well as a director of the North Okanagan Community Futures Development Corporation.

Eric and his wife Janice have been volunteering, working and living in the North Okanagan for more than 20 years.

Eric is a great supporter of sports, the outdoors, his community, arts and culture.

Thursday, October 11, 2012

MLA: Rob Fleming - Victoria-Swan Lake

 
Father in this season of changes and transition we ask that MLA: Rob Fleming would walk in the confidence of Your calling on his life.  We ask Father that You give him clear direction and discernment, wisdom and revelation. We pray that he would rest in knowing that those things that concern him concern You, as well, and that Your plan will unfold. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Rob Fleming was elected on May 17, 2005 as the MLA for Victoria-Hillside, and re-elected on May 12, 2009 as the MLA for the re-configured constituency of Victoria-Swan Lake.

Rob serves as opposition critic for Environment.

Rob has served as critic for the environment and post-secondary and sat as chair of the legislature’s Public Accounts committee.

Rob served two terms as a Victoria City Councillor before his election to the legislature. He chaired the city’s finance committee and represented Victoria at the Capital Regional District, the Victoria Regional Transit Commission, the Capital Housing Corporation and Tourism Victoria.

Rob has been involved in a number of community organizations, including the Work Place, the Veins of Life Watershed Society, and the Victoria Cool Aid Society Foundation.

Rob received a bachelor of arts degree from the University of Victoria and has worked in research and communications.

Rob lives in Victoria with his wife Maura, daughter Rory and son Jack. He is a dedicated soccer fan and player, and an avid user of Victoria's parks and beaches.

Wednesday, October 10, 2012

MLA: Mike Farnworth - Port Coquitlam

God of heaven and earth, Your word tells us to pray for those who govern over us so that we might live lives marked with peace and Your blessing.  Today we pray for MLA: Mike Farnworth.  We thank You for his many years of public service and the experience he brings to his current role as MLA for Port Coquitlam.  We ask that as he serves his constituents and the people of British Columbia as Health Critic that he would experience Your help and strength.  Help him today as he addresses the needs and concerns of his constituents.  Use him as an effective advocate on behalf of those who are in need of his assistance and support.  Bless his life today! Amen.

Mike Farnworth was elected as MLA for Port Coquitlam on May 12, 2009. He was first elected as the MLA for Port Coquitlam-Burke Mountain in 1991, and re-elected in 1996. Mike was re-elected again as MLA for this constituency on May 17, 2005.

Mike serves as opposition critic for Health.

Mike also served the people of Port Coquitlam as a three term City Councillor.

During his time as the MLA for Port Coquitlam he served in numerous Cabinet positions, including Minister of Health and Minister of Social Development and Economic Security.

From 2001 to 2004, Mike worked in Bulgaria, the Balkans and most recently Iraq on democratic governance programs to help build multiparty democracies in former one-party states.

Mike was raised in Port Coquitlam and has lived there for over 30 years.

Tuesday, October 9, 2012

MLA: Kevin Falcon - Surrey-Cloverdale

 
We ask for Your blessing on MLA: Kevin Falcon today.  Thank You for his years of service to British Columbians as both an MLA and a Cabinet Minister.  As he prepares for a new career outside of politics, we ask that You would direct his steps. Lead him on a path that will bring him great joy and satisfaction.   Help him to complete his term with excellence as he serves his constituents and the people of British Columbia as a private member.  Bless him, his family and his staff today. Amen.

Kevin Falcon was appointed to serve as Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance on March 14, 2011. He also serves as Chair of the Treasury Board.

MLA Falcon was first elected in 2001 to represent the riding of Surrey-Cloverdale, and was re-elected in 2005 and 2009. He previously served as the Minister of Health Services and as Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure, initially serving as Minister of State for De-regulation.

As well, Minister Falcon has previously overseen a capital program that includes the Kicking Horse Canyon, the Sea to Sky Highway and the William Bennett Bridge, among many others.

Minister Falcon's leadership earned him recognition in Vancouver Magazine's annual ranking of the city's 50 most influential leaders in 2008.

Before his election to the Legislative Assembly in 2001, Kevin Falcon was president of Access Group, a corporate communications firm he founded in 1998. He has also worked in the real estate development industry and was vice-president of Northwest Investment Properties. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Simon Fraser University, and his real estate education at the University of British Columbia.

Kevin has been active with his local Chamber of Commerce and Rotary Club. He is a past director of the Vancouver Sea Festival, past-president of the Vancouver Junior Chamber of Commerce and a former volunteer with the Cloverdale RCMP Bike Patrol.

Monday, October 8, 2012

MLA: Mable Elmore - Vancouver-Kensington

 
Heavenly Father, we pray for MLA Mabel Elmore today.  We are thankful for the gifts and abilities that You have given to her.  As she fulfills the responsibility of leadership that has been entrusted to her, we ask for Your divine help and support.  Grant her strength, wisdom, compassion and courage as she serves her constituents and the people of British Columbia. Bless her, her staff and the people of Vancouver-Kensington. Amen.

Mable Elmore was elected MLA for Vancouver-Kensington on May 12, 2009.

Mable serves as opposition critic for ICBC and Deputy Finance critic.

Mable has been a transit operator for 10 years, driving a bus in Metro Vancouver while taking a role in her union, the Canadian Auto Workers Local 111, where she coordinated the "More Buses Now" campaign to improve public bus transit.

Mable is a second generation Filipino-Canadian who has also been active in the peace movement and on immigrant, social justice, women's and gay, lesbian and transgendered issues.

Sunday, October 7, 2012

MLA: Doug Donaldson - Stikine

Dearest Heavenly Father, we thank You for and appreciate the value MLA: Doug Donaldson, MLA for the Stikine and Deputy Opposition Critic for Finance and Energy brings.  We thank You for the diversity of his background and the divergent perspectives and ideas he has obtained.  May You lead and guide his thoughts in accordance with Your will.  Make him effective in strengthening our province. Allow him to bring cohesion to the many regions and personalities he comes in contact with.  May You grant him success in his personal endeavours in order that he may keep his focus on the tasks You have put before him.  Bless him and his family with good health and joyful times together.  We thank You, Lord, and ask this in Jesus’ name.

Doug Donaldson was elected as MLA for Stikine on May 12, 2009 after four terms as a municipal councillor in Hazelton.

Doug serves as deputy opposition critic Finance, and Energy and serves as Chair of the caucus committee on Sustainable Economic Development.

Doug’s previous work in the Stikine included jobs in forestry, tourism, education, communications and journalism. He has been active on many local and provincial boards.

Doug lived in Smithers and Telkwa before settling in Hazelton. He has traveled extensively through the new Stikine riding, with many trips to the northern part of the constituency featuring a recent visit to Iskut to participate in a community coalbed methane forum organized by the Tahltan. Doug is married and has two adult children. He enjoys skiing, hiking, squash and tending to his chickens, turkeys, sheep and llamas. His formal education includes an undergraduate degree in biology and a graduate degree in journalism.

Thursday, October 4, 2012

MLA: Adrian Dix - Vancouver-Kingsway

Dearest Heavenly Father, in MLA: Adrian Dix's critical role as Leader of the Opposition and as MLA for Vancouver-Kingsway we ask that You would lead and guide him . May he be a shining light of integrity and honesty and  may his upright conduct and honour be an example to all members of our Legislature.  We thank You for the many hours of work and the sacrifices MLA Dix has made to serve in our government.  May You grant him great discernment that he may hear and obey Your leading and allow Your favour to rest upon him.  We ask that his days off would be times of refreshing and filled with rewarding and encouraging encounters with friends and family.  We thank You, Lord, and ask this in Jesus’ name.

Adrian Dix was elected Leader of the British Columbia New Democratic Party on April 17, 2011.

Adrian Dix was re-elected as MLA for Vancouver-Kingsway on May 12, 2009. He was first elected to the Legislature on May 17, 2005.

Adrian has extensive experience as a non-profit director, education community leader, government strategist and media commentator.

For the past five years, Adrian travelled the province as Executive Director of Canadian Parents for French – BC & Yukon Branch, a non-profit organization promoting language education.

Adrian is a commentator on public policy whose regular columns were published in the Victoria Times-Colonist and The Source, a Vancouver multicultural newspaper. Over the past five years, he was regularly called upon to present views on public policy issues for local, provincial, national and international media.

Adrian also served as the Chief of Staff to Premier Glen Clark from 1996 to 1999.

Adrian grew up in Vancouver, graduated from University of British Columbia and now lives in the Collingwood neighbourhood.

 

 

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

MLA: Hon. Michael de Jong, Q.C. - Abbotsford West - Minister of Finance

Dearest Heavenly Father, as MLA for Abbotsford West and Minister of Finance for our province, we ask that Your hand of favour would rest upon MLA: Hon. Michael de Jong.  We ask that You impart to him special wisdom and astuteness that he may conduct our financial interests with the utmost skill and ingenuity.  May You cause integrity and forthrightness to be the hallmarks of his tenure. Let special discernment also be his and may he know and follow Your leading.  Bless Minster de Jong with good health and surround him with people who will be a strength and a blessing to him.  We thank You, Lord, and ask this in Jesus’ name.

Michael de Jong was named Minister of Finance on September 5, 2012.

He will also serve as the Government House Leader.

The five-term MLA previously served as Minister of Health, Attorney General, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General, Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation, Minister of Labour and Citizens’ Services, and Minister of Forests.

He was re-elected in 2009 as the MLA for Abbotsford West, an area he has represented since first being elected to the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia in a 1994 byelection.

Before his election as a Member of the Legislative Assembly in 1994, Mike served two terms as an elected School Trustee for Abbotsford School District 34, and was a practicing lawyer with his own Abbotsford firm. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Carleton University in Ottawa and a law degree from the University of Alberta.

Michael has also been involved with the Abbotsford-Matsqui Arts Council, the Matsqui Youth Commission, and holds the rank of Captain in the Canadian Armed Forces Air Force Reserve.

Still an avid hockey player, in his teen years Michael was a member of the Abbotsford Pilots Junior B hockey team. He attended Mouat Secondary School and still lives on the Matsqui Prairie farm where he grew up.

Tuesday, October 2, 2012

MLA: Marc Dalton - Maple Ridge-Mission

Lord we thank You for MLA: Marc Dalton and his life of public service and dedication to people of Maple Ridge - Mission and to British Columbia. Your Word says in Proverbs 16:9 "We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps.(NLT). We pray that You will continue to give him Your revelation, wisdom, strength  and vision as to how to best serve his constituents and the province while bringing the most good to the greatest number of people. We pray for divine connections with colleagues, organizations and key people to create a synergy to bring about the change that You want to see in our province. May Your hand of protection be upon him and his family. In the mighty name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Marc Dalton was elected as MLA to represent the riding of Maple Ridge-Mission on May 12, 2009.

Previously, Marc worked as a long-time teacher in the Maple Ridge School District at both the elementary and high school levels.  He has a Bachelors Degree in French and History and a Masters Degree in Educational Leadership, both from Simon Fraser University. Raised in a military family he lived in bases across the country and served in the Canadian Armed Forces Reserves after graduating. He is a member of the Royal Canadian Legion in Maple Ridge.

Mr. Dalton is Aboriginal (Metis) and speaks French.  He has led student exchanges to Quebec to promote unity, French language fluency and an appreciation of Canadian culture. He has attended the Teachers Institute of Parliamentary Democracy in Ottawa and has been active in politics at all different levels over the past 25 years.
 
Mr. Dalton is a resident of Maple Ridge and has been married to his wife, Marlene, for 24 years.  They have three grown children.

For several years, Mr. Dalton worked as a volunteer with youth and reaching out to the needy. Currently, he and Marlene are involved with feeding the homeless in downtown Maple Ridge.                    

Monday, October 1, 2012

MLA: Kathy Corrigan - Burnaby-Deer Lake

Jesus, You are quoted in John 15:7 as saying "If you abide in Me, and My words abide in You, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for You." (NASB). We pray that You will continue to strengthen, encourage and guide MLA: Kathy Corrigan as she serves in the legislature of British Columbia. We ask this so that she is able to implement those things that you have laid on her heart to accomplish for the citizens of our province. We also ask that You would give her renewed encouragement from her family and close friends and a supernatural peace in the midst of her busy schedule. In Jesus' name, we pray.

Kathy Corrigan was elected MLA for Burnaby-Deer Lake in 2009 and serves as Official Opposition Deputy Caucus Chair, and Public Safety and Corrections critic.

A strong advocate for public education, Kathy served three terms on the Burnaby Board of Education (1999-2008) and was board chair in 2007 and 2008. She served on numerous district committees and was a member of the BC School Trustees' Provincial Council. 
 
Kathy is a lawyer and public policy researcher by profession. She has also edited a legal journal and has written about privatization and trade agreements.

As a long-time community volunteer, Kathy spent many years serving on parent advisory committees, the Burnaby Minor Hockey Association, the Burnaby & New Westminster Ringette Association, the Lakeside Advisory Board, and other organizations.

She and husband Derek Corrigan have lived in Burnaby since 1977. They have four grown children.