MLA Ian Donovan, Little Bow

Dear Lord, we ask you to bless MLA Ian Donovan in the many things he does. We pray that you will be with him and give him the ability to make good decisions. We pray that he and his family will feel your presence in stressful times. Guide him on the right paths to make the right decisions. Amen.

 

Ian Donovan was elected as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Little Bow on April 23, 2012. He was appointed to the Standing Committee on Public Accounts on May 24, 2012. He was appointed to the Standing Committee on Alberta’s Economic Future on May 28, 2012.

Mr. Donovan was born in High River and calls the hamlet of Mossleigh home. A graduate of Senator Riley high school, he has operated a grain farm in Mossleigh for 20 years. In addition to his running his farm, he is a long-time member and former director of the Blackie Seed Cleaning Association.

Mr. Donovan is an active member of his community, having been involved with the Lions Club of Mossleigh and Community Futures Highwood, a nonprofit community-owned business development organization, for the past 15 years. He also served as councillor for division 9 of Vulcan county from 1995 until his election to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta.

Donovan lives with his wife, Serena, and their children on their farm in Mossleigh.

June 19, 2012

Honourable Jonathan Denis, QC, Calgary-Acadia

Lord, we lift up the Honourable Jonathan Denis. We pray that he would feel your presence and know that he is loved. We pray for his family that they will be strong and support him during his time in office as Minister of Justice and Solicitor General. Thank you for his efforts to seek to improve the quality of life for our Albertans in the community of Calgary-Acadia. Bless him and his family in all that they do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

 

Minister of Justice and Solicitor General

Jonathan Denis, QC, was elected to his second term as a Member of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta for Calgary-Acadia on April 23, 2012, and currently serves as Minister of Justice and Solicitor General. In addition, Jonathan serves as Deputy Government House Leader and is a member of the Treasury Board.

Jonathan moved to Calgary in 2000 from Saskatchewan, where he was born in Regina. Prior to moving to Alberta, Jonathan obtained degrees in commerce and law. Before serving as a Member of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, Jonathan was a senior associate with the Calgary office of a national law firm, specializing in litigation and government relations.

In 2009 Jonathan was appointed a Queen’s Counsel of Alberta. He was also the president of a communications firm and a director of the Institute for Public Sector Accountability, a nonprofit organization founded to promote transparency and accountability in the public sector.

Jonathan previously served as Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs, where he exceeded targets for affordable housing and reducing homelessness while reducing spending by 39 per cent. He has also served as Solicitor General and Minister of Public Security and parliamentary assistant for Energy.

An active part of his community, Jonathan has been a volunteer with the Heart and Stroke Foundation, the Multiple Sclerosis Society, Habitat for Humanity and the Canadian Cancer Society. Jonathan has also been a health care advocate for patients throughout Calgary. In 2010, he was recognized by Avenue Magazine as one of Calgary’s Top 40 under 40.

In his spare time Jonathan enjoys keeping active and spending time with family and friends. Jonathan is also an avid fan of both of the Calgary Flames and Calgary Stampeders.

November 6, 2012

MLA Alana DeLong, Calgary-Bow

Dear Lord, be with MLA Alana DeLong. Help her to effectively carry out good plans in leading our province. Keep her close to her family members and let them be supportive of her. May you ensure that she feels encouraged and is aware of the numerous people praying for her. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Alana DeLong was elected to her fourth term on April 23, 2012, as the Member of the Legislative Assembly representing the constituency of Calgary-Bow.

Ms. DeLong is a member of the Legislative Offices Committee; the Public Accounts Committee; Standing Committee on Private Bills; and the Families and Communities Committee. She is chair of the Seniors Advisory Council for Alberta. As well, Ms. DeLong is chair of Alberta’s delegation to the Pacific North West Economic Region. She previously co-chaired the 2010 PNWER Calgary Summit Host Committee.

Born in Nelson, British Columbia, Ms. Alana DeLong obtained her bachelor of science (honours) in mathematics with a minor in theatre from the University of British Columbia. She then moved to Calgary, where she attended courses at the University of Calgary, master’s in computer science Program.

Ms. DeLong has more than 20 years of experience in the field of information technology and has worked for many leading high-tech computer firms in Calgary, serving as president of Sterling Rock Systems. Alana was also the first female computer mainframe salesman with Sperry Univac. She was also the first female marketing manager with Canadian General Electric.

An active member of her community, some of Ms. DeLong’s past contributions have been as president of Tuesday Nooners Toastmasters and as a singer with the Calgary Opera Chorus. She has campaigned extensively for the Red Cross Society, the Cancer Foundation, the Heart and Stroke Foundation, Flowers of Hope, and various municipal, national and provincial elections. She hosted a TV ski program and has been an actress with Theatre Calgary.

For more than 30 years Ms. DeLong has called Calgary-Bow home. Alana enjoys the outdoors and has hiked the province’s mountains and canoed most of the rivers in southern Alberta. Alana has two grown children, Samantha and James.

January 11, 2013

Honourable Cal Dallas Red Deer-South

Dear Lord God, we thank you for the Honourable Cal Dallas of Red Deer South. Give him wisdom and guide him in his work on the committees he has been appointed to. Give him strength for the many pressures and stresses that he faces every day. May his constituents let him know how much his hard work is appreciated. In your name, Amen.

Minister of International and Intergovernmental Relations

Mr. Dallas was elected as a Member of the Legislative Assembly for Red Deer-South on March 3, 2008 and re-elected on April 23, 2012. Mr. Dallas was appointed to cabinet on October 12, 2011 as the Minister of Intergovernmental, International and Aboriginal Relations and reappointed as Minister of International and Intergovernmental Relations on May 8, 2012.

Prior to entering cabinet, Mr. Dallas served as parliamentary assistant to the Minister of Finance and Enterprise and parliamentary assistant to the Minister of Environment. He co-chaired Climate-Change Central, was vice- chair of the Regulatory Enhancement Project Task Force and served on the Cabinet Policy Committee on Energy.

He has carried four bills through the legislative process: Bill 12, the Alberta Investment Management Corporation Amendment Act, 2011; Bill 10, the Supportive Living Accommodation Licensing Act, 2009; Bill 40, the Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Amendment Act; and Bill Pr3 (2009) Les Filles de la Sagesse Act Repeal Act.

Prior to serving in the Legislative Assembly Mr. Dallas was Executive Director of the Red Deer Chamber of Commerce and, before that, he worked in the printing and publishing industry for 25 years, including nine years as publisher of the Red Deer Express.

An active member of his community, Mr. Dallas has been involved in the following organizations:

• Red Deer Rotary Club, director
• Alberta Chamber of Commerce, vice-president (volunteer)
• United Way of Central Alberta, director
• Innisfail Golf Association, president
• Red Deer College, board of governors
• STARS Capital Campaign
• Mayor’s Task Force on Homelessness

In recognition of his community involvement, Mr. Dallas received the Canadian Chamber of Commerce volunteer of the year award in 2002 and the Queens Jubilee Medal in 2003. Additionally, he received the Bill Draayer award from the Alberta Weekly Newspapers´ Association in 2004, and the Alberta Centennial Medal in 2005.

Mr. Dallas and his wife, Jacqueline, live in Red Deer.

May 25, 2012

MLA Christine Cusanelli Calgary-Currie

Lord, we ask you to bless MLA Christine Cusannelli in the many duties she fulfills as she represents the constituency of Calgary-Currie. Help her to be a good leader and make wise decisions. We pray that you would guide her life and bless her work. We pray also that you would keep her healthy and safe. In Christ’s name. Amen.

Christine Cusanelli was elected to her first term as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Calgary-Currie on April 23, 2012. She was sworn in as Minister of Tourism, Parks and Recreation on May 15, 2012, a position she held until February 4, 2013.

She has a bachelor of education degree from Faculté Saint-Jean, University of Alberta, and a masters degree in psychology from Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington. She started her career as a teacher with the Calgary Catholic school district, where she taught elementary and junior high students in French immersion and other educational settings. Most recently Ms Cusanelli led St. Michael´s school (K-9) in implementing two international baccalaureate programs. She has been a keen supporter and advocate for students with special needs and learning challenges.

She became a principal at age 32, placing her among the youngest principals in Calgary. In this role she spent the past several years working to create bonds with students, their families and the broader community through outreach that has included visiting seniors´ homes, working with Inn from The Cold and opening the school up to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Calgary.

Ms Cusanelli is a runner, cyclist and swimmer. She has participated in triathlons, marathons and other races in the pursuit of personal health and to fund raise for various charities. She spends time golfing, travelling, reading and enjoying the arts with her daughter.

February 4, 2013

MLA Ron Casey Banff-Cochrane

Lord, we thank you for MLA Ron Casey and faithfulness. We pray that you would guide his steps today. Please be with him as he thinks through and plans what he needs to do each day. Give him the ability to know what is most important to give his attention to. Bless him and help him to know that what he does for our province is appreciated. Amen.

Ron Casey was elected to his first term as a Member of the Legislature on April 23, 2012.

Ron and his family have resided in Canmore for the past 38 years. His wife, Pennie has been a Dental Hygienist in Canmore for over 30 years. They have two grown children, Alison and Shannon.

They are also blessed now to be proud grandparents of baby Casey. Casey along with his parents, Shannon and Chad, live close by in the Town of Cochrane.

Ron is a Master Electrician and operated B&C Electric Ltd. from 1978 until 1990. Since then he has focused most of his business activities in the development area, building numerous industrial buildings as well as several houses and small commercial developments.

On top of his business activities, he has served as a member of Town Council from October 1995. He was Mayor of the Town of Canmore from 1998 – 2001 and after a three year break was re-elected Mayor in 2004, 2007 and 2010.

For recreation he has been actively involved in Karate for 30 years and is currently a 4th degree black belt in Chito Ryu Karate - owning and operating a training facility for many years. He also spends as much time as he can on his motorcycles during the summer months.

MLA Wayne Cao Calgary-Fort

Dear God, please bless MLA Wayne Cao. Help and guide him to make right decisions and actions. We pray for his family and colleagues that they can have peace of mind and you can strengthen them. Help him to make smart or wise decisions and give him guidance. Please surround him with your presence and help him know that you are with him. We pray for health for him and his family. Bless the Calgary-Fort office as well that it can be a peaceful place of work. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

 
Wayne Cao was first elected to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta on March 11, 1997, as the MLA for the Calgary-Fort constituency and re-elected on March 11, 2001, November 22, 2004, March 3, 2008 and April 23, 2012. On April 14, 2008, Mr. Cao was elected to the position of Deputy Speaker and Chair of Committees.

Mr. Cao was appointed chair of the Standing Committee on Private Bills on May 24, 2012. He was appointed to the Standing Committee on Resource Stewardship on May 28, 2012.

His past appointments include:

• Chair, Cabinet Policy Committee on Government Services
• Member, Standing Committee on Education
• Member, Legislative Offices Committee
• Member, Legislative Review Committee
• Member, Alberta Heritage Savings Trust Fund Committee
• Deputy chair, select standing committees on Private Bills and Privileges and Elections, Standing Orders and Printing
• Cabinet member liaison to caucus for southern Alberta
• Chair, government caucus in Calgary
• Chair, child care legislation review
• Chair, Court Service Workers Review Committee
• Member of the Standing Policy Committee on Learning
• Chair, Committee on Lifelong Learning
• Chair, Employment Standards Regulations Review
• Chair, Northland Athabasca School District Review
• Member, Natural Heritage Environment Protection Legislation Review
• Member of the Subcommittees of Supply and Designated Supply
• Member, Government Strategy Team on Private Members’ Bills
• Government Member, Lougheed House Historical Preservation Society
• Government Representative, Calgary Diversity Leadership Council
• Member, Legislature Standing Committee on Public Accounts
• Member, MLA Committee on Strengthening Alberta’s Role in Confederation

Mr. Cao has brought forward several legislation changes related to maternity/parental leave increase, minimum wage increase, employment standards for domestic workers, medical benefits for severely handicapped people, seniors’ assistance programs and the selection of Alberta’s official song.

He has lived, worked and travelled extensively in many parts of the world: Southeast Asia, Western Europe, Australia, Mexico, the USA and Canada.

Mr. Cao received training in engineering, computing technology and business management from various corporations and institutions such as the universities of Auckland, Saigon and Waterloo and continuing education programs through Shell Petroleum in Canada and the USA. He is a certified information technology professional, holding ISP designation from the Canadian Information Processing Society.

He worked for the Shell petroleum company for 26 years in many specialist and management roles before early retirement in 1997 after winning his first election. He taught evening courses for the Association of Engineers of Saigon-Vietnam and the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology.

Mr. Cao is a past director of Kimson Consulting Services and Canadasia Management Consulting, a past chair of the Data Warehouse Technology Special Interest Group of the Canadian Information Processing Professional Society and past member of the Data Processing Management Association of America.

He has participated in and held memberships in various society and charity organizations, including:

• Canadian Club of Calgary
• United Nations Association
• Wildrose Lions Club
• Royal Canadian Legion, Ogden Branch
• The Future Group
• Habitat for Humanity
• For the Love of Children Society
• New View Global Vision Foundation
• Calgary Minor Soccer Association

Mr. Cao also has worked with Calgary community TV and has spent time advising cultural events. He was a volunteer/session leader with the Junior Achievement stay-in-school programs; judge for high school debates, science and heritage fairs; a volunteer/contributor with Meals-for-Homeless and Inn-from-the-Cold; and a participant and fundraiser for various charity events.

His contributions to the community have been recognized through awards and honorary membership from For The Love of Children Society, the Hart Foundation, Friends of Elliston Park Society, the Ogden Seniors Association, Fort Calgary Historic Foundation, Visminsa Filipino Society, Indo-Canada Association, Hispanic Arts Society, Hoysun Association, Millican-Ogden Association, Calgary Minor Soccer Association and Chinese Music Development Society. He has received the Queen’s Jubilee Medal and the Alberta Centennial Medal.

Mr. Cao enjoys playing racket sports, downhill skiing, fishing, playing music and singing, history reading, language learning and martial arts practice.

He has established his home in Calgary for over the last 30 years with his wife, Kim Hoang, an engineer and banking professional, and their three sons: William (MBA; law, University of Calgary), Winston (engineer, University of Waterloo) and Ulysses (biochemist, Queen’s University). They have one grandson so far.

June 6, 2012

Honourable Robin Campbell West Yellowhead

Lord, we ask you to bless MLA Robin Campbell in the many duties he fulfills. Give him a clear mind and the ability to make the right decisions. Lead him to 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, Amen.

 Minister of Aboriginal Relations

Deputy House Leader

Mr. Campbell was elected to his second term as a Member of the Legislative Assembly for West Yellowhead on April 23, 2012. Mr. Campbell currently serves as Minister of Aboriginal Relations, Deputy House Leader and as a member of the Treasury Board.

Prior to becoming a Cabinet Minister, Mr. Campbell served as Chief Government Whip and Deputy Government Whip. He also chaired the Northern Alberta Development Council.

Mr. Campbell’s varied experience prior to serving as a Member of the Legislative Assembly for West Yellowhead includes being president of the local United Mine Workers of America and working as an appeals commissioner with the Workers’ Compensation Board. He was also a member of the Alberta Labour Relations Board and the Environmental Protection Advisory Committee. Additionally, he was a key participant in the Cheviot hearings, representing the Hinton and District Chamber of Commerce, Alberta Council for Sustainable Communities and the Environment and the United Mine Workers.

Mr. Campbell lives in Jasper.

June 26, 2012

MLA Pearl Calahasen Lesser Slave Lake

Dear Lord, we thank you for MLA Pearl Calahasen. We pray that you will give her strength to carry out her duties and may she be encouraged that what she is doing is making a difference. Give her the discernment that she needs and guide her each day. May she experience your rest and peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

 

Pearl Calahasen was elected to her seventh term as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Lesser Slave Lake on April 23, 2012.She was appointed to the Standing Committee on Public Accounts and the Special Standing Committee on Members´ Services on May 24, 2012. She was appointed to the Standing Committee on Resource Stewardship on May 28, 2012.

Ms. Calahasen previously served as a member of the following Standing Committees of the Legislative Assembly:

• Private Bills
• Privileges and Elections, Standing Orders and Printing
• Community Development
• Public Accounts

Since she was first elected to the Alberta Legislature in 1989, Ms. Calahasen served as Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, minister without portfolio responsible for children’s services, Associate Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and as a member of the Standing Committee on Resources and Environment.

Pearl Calahasen was born and raised in Grouard, Alberta. She has a bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Alberta and a master’s degree from the University of Oregon. She is currently an adjunct professor at the University of Alberta’s Faculty of Education.

Her professional experience includes teaching Grades 1-12, serving as a continuing education co-ordinator at Alberta Vocational College in Lesser Slave Lake (now Northern Lakes College) and working as a private consultant developing and evaluating educational materials.

Ms. Calahasen has been a champion of Native education programs. She led the development of the first Native language program introduced in Alberta schools and was responsible for developing the Cree language program for adult students. As a consultant with Alberta Education Ms. Calahasen was the principal advisor for the development of the Native education policy, curriculum materials and language development and programming.

Actively involved in community affairs, Ms. Calahasen has served as a member of the Native economic development program, as an Alberta human rights commissioner and as a volunteer tutor for illiterate adults. She has canvassed for the Heart Fund and Cancer Society and has been actively involved in community sports as a player, coach and administrator. Ms. Calahasen was one of the founding members of the University of Alberta Native Students’ Association.

Ms. Calahasen has been recognized by the Aboriginal community as a role model and has received many awards. Some of these include:

• Esquao Circle of Honour
• Honorary membership in the Kapawe’no First Nation
• Honorary Chief of Tallcree First Nation
• Induction into the Blackfoot Women’s Society
• The National Aboriginal Achievement Award for Public Service
• Aboriginal Role Model Award

In addition to these honours and awards, the board of governors representing universities and colleges in Alberta granted Ms. Calahasen the Distinguished Achievement Award Celebrating Success.

June 5, 2012

MLA Dr. Neil Brown Calgary-Mackay-Nose Hill

Lord, thank you for MLA Dr. Neil Brown and his service to the people of this province. We ask that your hand would continue to bless and guide every aspect of Dr. Brown’s life. We pray that as he makes important decisions for this province that you would help him see clearly the issues most important. Bless his family with health and faithfulness and may they be aware of your presence in their lives. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Dr. Neil Brown, QC, was elected to his third term as a Member of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta for the constituency of Calgary-Mackay-Nose Hill on April 23, 2012. He was appointed to the Standing Committee on Private Bills on May 24, 2012, and to the Standing Committee on Resource Stewardship on May 28, 2012.
Committees Served on
Current Assignments

• Standing Committee on Resource Stewardship
• Standing Committee on Legislative Offices
• Standing Committee on Private Bills
• Member of the board of the Canadian Energy Research Institute
• Health – Primary Care & Health Benefits Panel

Past Assignments

• Chair, Standing Committee on Private Bills
• Agenda and Priorities Committee
• Standing Committee on Education
• Private Members Business Committee
• Regulatory Review Secretariat
• Cabinet Policy Committee on Education
• Chair, Cabinet Policy Committee on Public Safety and Services (responsible for reviewing policy changes and proposed legislation in departments of Justice and Attorney General; Solicitor General, Aboriginal Affairs, Service Alberta, Treasury Board, and Executive Council.)
• Standing Committee on Public Safety and Services: all party committee which examines policy and legislation
• Chair, Legislative Review Committees: Member Agenda and Priorities Committee (2006-2008)
• Chair, Select Special Committee on Conflicts of Interest
• Chair, Alberta Forestry Research Institute
• Standing Committee on Public Accounts
• MLA AISH Review Committee
• Chair, Protection of Persons in Care Review
• Standing Committee on Government Services
• Cabinet Policy Committee on Resources and Environment
• MLA Métis Harvesting Committee
• Forestry Industry Sustainability Committee
• Standing Committee on Public Accounts
• Chair, all-party Select Special Committee on Conflicts of Interest Act Review

Dr. Brown began his career as an assistant professor of biology at Trent University. He then went on to practise law with McLaws and Company (later Parlee McLaws), focusing mainly on civil litigation and oil and gas matters. In 1987 he went into private practice, specializing in civil litigation, administrative, oil and gas and environmental law. Dr. Brown received his bachelor’s of science in biology from the University of Calgary in 1971, his master’s of science in zoology from the University of Alaska in 1974, his Ph.D. in biology from McGill University in 1977 and his bachelor of laws from the University of Calgary in 1982.
Dr. Brown is an active member of the Law Society of Alberta.
Since being elected to serve as an MLA, Dr. Brown has successfully sponsored 15 government bills.
His contribution to the public sector includes:

• Service on the Board of Governors and Senate of the University of Calgary
• Past president of the Alumni Association of the University of Calgary
• Member, Student Legal Aid, the University of Calgary
• Vice-president and chair of his community association
• Associate (voting) member, Royal Canadian Legion for over 30 years
• Director, Midnapore Church of England Society (historic site)
• Lecturer, Historic Calgary Week of Chinook Country Historical Society
• Volunteer canvasser for the Heart and Stroke Foundation, the Alberta Lung Association, the Canadian Cancer Society and the Kidney Foundation

Dr. Brown has received a number of awards and honours, including:

• Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee medal
• Canada 125 medal for Service to Community and Canada in 1992
• Alberta Centennial medal for outstanding service to Alberta 2005
• National Sciences and Engineering Research Council grant (1978-79)
• National Research Council of Canada Scholar (1974-77)
• Award of Merit Honoree, Alumni Association of the University of Calgary (1992)
• Chief Justice McGillivray Shield, University of Calgary Faculty of Law (1980 and 1981)
• President’s Citation, University of Calgary Students’ Union (1989-90)

Dr. Brown enjoys outdoor pursuits, including canoeing, fishing, hunting as well as creative writing, travelling and reading.
January 22, 2012

MLA Laurie Blakeman Edmonton-Centre

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for MLA Laurie Blakeman and her service to the people of Edmonton-Centre. Give her the endurance and strength she needs and that her work is making a difference. We pray that your hand would continue to guide her and please bless her with health and wholeness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Laurie Blakeman was first elected as Edmonton-Centre MLA in 1997 and is now in her fifth term. She currently serves as Alberta Liberal House Leader in the Alberta Legislature. She was appointed to the Standing Committee on Legislative Offices on May 24, 2012. She was appointed to the Standing Committee on Alberta’s Economic Future and the Standing Committee on Resource Stewardship on May 28, 2012.

In addition, Ms. Blakeman served as deputy chair of the Standing Committee on Energy and was a member of the following Standing Committees:

• Community Development
• Select Special Information and Privacy Commissioner Search
• Legislative Offices

Ms. Blakeman has served as critic for eight other portfolios, including Health and Wellness.
Ms. Blakeman has a bachelor of fine arts degree in acting and a certificate in public administration, both from the University of Alberta. Before serving in the provincial Legislature, she enjoyed a successful career in the theatre both as a performer and an administrator with Phoenix Theatre, Theatre Network, and Celebration of Women in the Arts.

Ms. Blakeman is a former executive director of the Alberta Advisory Council on Women’s Issues and past president of Celebration of Women in the Arts as well as the founding member of the Edmonton National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. In 1999 she received a YWCA Woman of Distinction Award.

A long-time resident of Edmonton’s Rossdale neighbourhood, Ms. Blakeman is married to Ben Henderson, Edmonton city councillor for ward 8. They share their home with two large dogs and two cats.
June 6, 2012

MLA Deron Bilous Edmonton-Beverly-Clareview

Dear God, we pray for MLA Deron Bilous, for his health and family. We pray for all of  his decisions he has to make. We pray for all the work he has to do, that he will have the energy to do all of it. We pray that he has support from both family and friends to support him in his work, also with his decisions. Thank you, Lord for Mr. Bilous. In Jesus’name we pray, Amen.

Deron Bilous was elected as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Edmonton-Beverly-Clareview on April 23, 2012. He was appointed to the Standing Committee on Privileges and Elections, Standing Orders and Printing on May 24, 2012. He was appointed to the Standing Committee on Public Accounts and the Standing Committee on Resource Stewardship on May 28, 2012.

Mr. Bilous was born and raised in Edmonton and is very proud of his Ukrainian ancestry. He graduated from the University of Alberta with a bachelor of education degree in 2001. For the past five years he has taught and mentored students at Edmonton’s Inner City High School.

An active volunteer in his community, Mr. Bilous has been a member of the Beverly Heights Community League and vice-president of the Boyle Street Community League. From 2008 to 2011 he served as a board member on the Edmonton Aboriginal Urban Affairs Committee.

Mr. Bilous also participated in the Canada World Youth program in 1995-96, working in Edmonton, Saint Jerome in Quebec and Tunisia.

Mr. Bilous lives in Beverly Heights. In his spare time he enjoys playing recreational hockey and other sports as well as traveling.
June 1, 2012

MLA Gary Bikman Cardston-Taber

Dear Lord, we pray for Mr. Gary Bikman. Thank you God for giving him success in the important role he plays in our society and I pray that you would continue to give him wisdom and clarity of thought as he assists in the governance of our province. Take away any stress and give him peace of mind. Let him feel encouraged as he makes his community a better place. Bless him and his family, keep them safe, healthy and successful throughout their lives. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Gary Bikman was elected as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Cardston-Taber-Warner on April 23, 2012. He was appointed deputy chair of the Standing Committee on Alberta’s Economic Future on May 28, 2012.

Mr. Bikman was born and raised in southern Alberta. He holds a bachelor’s of science degree and a master’s in business administration degree from Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah.

Mr. Bikman has extensive business experience, having successfully owned and managed an oilfield service company for 25 years. He cofounded and led ChopStix Restaurants from 2006 to 2010 and ChopStix International Franchising Inc. from 2010 to 2012. Mr. Bikman is also an experienced and dedicated educator, having been a sessional instructor at the University of Lethbridge’s faculty of management and at Lethbridge College.

An active member of his community, Mr. Bikman has frequently served as Stirling’s mayor, deputy mayor and councillor since 1980. He has also served intermittently as a member of the Chinook Arch Regional Library Board and as a scout leader in the village of Stirling.

Mr. Bikman and his first wife, Suzy, moved to Stirling in 1972. She died of cancer in 1989, leaving their nine children motherless. He later met and married Sheila Cooper-Leavitt. Together with her four children their blended family totals 13, with 33 1/3 grandchildren. They continue to reside in Stirling.

In his spare time he enjoys sports, yard work, leading self-employment workshops and teaching ethics and morality to teenagers. He is also an avid reader.

June 6, 2012

Honourable Manmeet S. Bhullar Calgary-Greenway

Minister of Service Alberta
Lord, thank you for giving MLA Manmeet S. Bhullar strength of character and integrity. We ask that you will further strengthen him in these areas. Give him the clarity to make good decisions. We also pray that you will give him your peace. Amen.

Manmeet Bhullar was elected to his second term as MLA for Calgary-Greenway on April 23, 2012. On May 8, 2012 Mr. Bhullar was sworn in as Minister of Service Alberta. Previously, Mr. Bhullar also served as Political Minister-Calgary.

He has also served as Parliamentary Assistant for Advanced Education and Technology, and he was reappointed as Parliamentary Assistant for Municipal Affairs in January 2010.
Mr. Bhullar serves as representative for Calgary-Greenway, but his community involvement began long before he was elected to office. He created a youth development organization with the hope to empower young people and encourage participation in positive acts of community service rather than turning to harmful activities. His community service has earned him many awards including the Alberta Centennial Medal, the Centennial Medallion, and the Athabasca University Leadership Award.
Formerly, Mr. Bhullar served as a member of the following standing committees of the Legislative Assembly

• Legislative Offices
• Community Services
• Members’ Services

Lord, thank you for giving MLA Manmeet S. Bhullar strength of character and integrity. We ask that you will further strengthen him in these areas. Give him the clarity to make good decisions. We also pray that you will give him your peace. Amen.

Mr. Bhullar has also served as a member of the Select Special Chief Electoral Officer Search Committee. He was the representative for the Alberta government on the board for WorldSkills 2009.
Mr. Bhullar has also carried the following legislation during his time as MLA:

• Bill 7,the Post-secondary Learning Amendment Act, 2008
• Bill 30, the Alberta Evidence Amendment Act, 2008
• Bill 4, the Post-secondary Learning Amendment Act, 2009 – allowing Mount Royal and MacEwan Colleges to become Universities.
• Bill 6, the Emergency Management Amendment Act, 2010
• Motion 508, a motion encouraging innovation in education (27th Legislature, 2nd Session)

June 6, 2012

MLA Naresh Bhardwaj Edmonton-Ellerslie

Dear God, we thank you for MLA Mr. Naresh Bhardwaj. We pray that you would give him wisdom and strength in the work that he does to help Albertans have such an amazing lifestyle. We also pray for his family, that you would show them that you are there for them and that you will always love them. We pray that as he continues as an MLA, that you would guide and lead him in what he should say and do. We once again God, thank you for Mr. Naresh Bhardwaj and pray that You will continue to touch the life of him and his family. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Mr. Bhardwaj was elected to his second term as a Member of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta for Edmonton-Ellerslie on April 23, 2012. In addition to his duties as an MLA, Mr. Bhardwaj serves as chair of the capital region caucus. He also sits on the following committees: the Legislative Review Committee and the Standing Committees on Private Bills, Alberta’s Economic Future and Privileges and Elections, Standing Orders and Printing.

Naresh moved to Alberta with his family in 1976. He became a journeyman automotive mechanic in 1983 before going back to school and graduating from the U of A with a double major. Naresh then spent the next 18 years working as a teacher in Pincher Creek, Whitecourt, Red Deer, Calgary and Edmonton, teaching predominantly automotives, mathematics and physical education.

Mr. Bhardwaj has been actively involved with Edmonton communities for over 36 years, serving on many committees and associations, establishing Youth Link, a youth employment training program, and coaching soccer at the community league level and for Juventus U-18.

Mr. Bhardwaj was married in 1982 to his wife, Sunita, and has three children: Sarah, Stephen and Neeraj.
December 5, 2012

MLA Drew Barnes Cypress-Medicine Hat

Dear Lord, we thank you for MLA Drew Barnes and his service to the people of the province of Alberta. I pray that you will bless his work and bless his family members as well, and that they will continue to love and care for him. Give him strength and endurance, and let him know his efforts are appreciated. Amen.

Drew Barnes was elected as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Cypress-Medicine Hat on April 23, 2012.

Mr. Barnes was born in Moosomin, Saskatchewan, and moved to Medicine Hat with his family in 1974. Upon graduation from Medicine Hat high school, he continued his studies at Camrose Lutheran College and the University of Alberta. Upon completion of his bachelor of commerce degree from the U of A, he pursued an award-winning career in real estate.

Mr. Barnes owned and managed a successful real estate office in Medicine Hat during his 26-year career in real estate. A member of the Medicine Hat Real Estate Board from 1983 to 2009, he served as board president in 1991.

An entrepreneur and businessman, Mr. Barnes owns a number of businesses in Medicine Hat which include a construction company, a storage facility and a property management company. He also owns commercial and residential property all over southern Alberta and southwestern Saskatchewan and has irrigation and ranchland, raising commercial beef and rodeo stock.

An active member of the community, Drew has been involved in many organizations in Medicine Hat and area. He has served as campaign chair and president of the United Way of Southeastern Alberta. A former president of the Kiwanis Club and Opportunity Capital Corporation, Drew enjoys working with others to forward a common cause. He was also a past member of the Kinsmen and Hockey Hounds. In his spare time Drew enjoys playing and coaching many sports, including golf, hockey, baseball and soccer, and watching his sons play football.
June 6, 2012

MLA Joe Anglin Rimbey-Rocky Mountain House-Sundre

Lord, we thank you for MLA Joe Anglin, and his service to the people in Rimbey-Rocky Mountain House-Sundre. We ask you to bless his office and that it would be a place where much work will get done. Let him have rest so that he may be strong and discerning. Thank you Lord for the integrity that he has shown and for the work that he has done. In Jesus’name, Amen.

Joe Anglin was elected as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Rimbey-Rocky Mountain House-Sundre on April 23, 2012. He was appointed to the Standing Committee on Public Accounts on May 24, 2012, and the Standing Committee on Resource Stewardship on May 28, 2012.

Mr. Anglin served in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam era before becoming a police officer. He then obtained a bachelor’s degree in business and a master’s degree in education. Mr. Anglin worked as a lineman for a public electric utility before going on to work for AT&T, the world’s largest corporation. He obtained a diploma in engineering and worked his way up into executive management. During his time with AT&T he taught fibre-optic transmission engineering at the Bell Labs training facilities in Chicago and served as the White House communications liaison for George Bush Sr. in Kennebunkport, Maine.
In the late 1990s Mr. Anglin became a unit leader for the Canadian Coast Guard’s fast-response search and rescue operations on the Pacific coast. In 2000, as the unit leader, Joe organized and led the Canadian national search and rescue team to victory in the World Marine Search and Rescue competitions.

Most recently Mr. Anglin was the founder and CEO of ASIG Inc., which operated as an international financial services firm. With offices located in Vancouver and Washington, ASIG specialized in trading derivatives, oil contracts, gas contracts and currencies.
An active member of his community, Mr. Anglin successfully organized and led the Lavesta Area Group, an association of southern Alberta landowners opposed to the construction of a 500KV electricity transmission line through their area, from 2006 to 2010. He served as chair of the Rimoka Housing Foundation from 2010 to 2012 and also served as a town councillor in Rimbey from 2010 until his election to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta.
In 2007 the Edmonton Journal named Mr. Anglin one of the top 10 people who made a difference. In 2008 Alberta Venture named him one of Alberta’s 50 most influential people.
Mr. Anglin currently lives in Rimbey with his wife, Deborah, and their two children.
July 17, 2012