Wednesday 31 May 2017

Mr. Jamie Kleinsteuber - MLA for Calgary-Northern Hills

Father God, thank You for Mr. Jamie Kleinsteuber and the commitment that he has made to the people of his riding in Calgary-Northern Hills.  Lord, we pray that You would give him new vision and new strategies to help him accomplish much for his constituents and the province of Alberta.  As he looks into the issues that come before him, we pray that You would bring clarity and understanding and unique solutions.  Walk with him, give him wisdom and guide his decisions for our Province daily.  Bless him in all that he does for his people.  Cover and protect him as he travels and meets with others.  May his constituency be blessed by his leadership and may Your will Lord be done by the tireless work of our MLA’s across Alberta.  In Your Name, Amen. 

Jamie Kleinsteuber was elected as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Calgary-Northern Hills on May 5, 2015.

He currently serves as a member of the Standing Committee on Private Bills and the Standing Committee on Legislative Offices. He also serves a member of the Standing Committee on Resource Stewardship and the Select Special Ombudsman and Public Interest Commissioner Search Committee.

Mr. Kleinsteuber attended the University of Ottawa and received a baccalaureate in arts: concentration History/ concentration public policy and public management, which included studies in public policy and analysis and public administration.


Prior to being elected, Mr. Kleinsteuber worked in the aviation industry for 18 years. During his employment with an airline he worked as ground staff based at airports in Ottawa, Montreal, Toronto and Calgary.

Tuesday 30 May 2017

Ms. Anam Kazim - MLA for Calgary-Glenmore

Father in Heaven we ask You to bless Honourable Ms. Anam Kazim as she serves in our Legislature.  We are grateful for the experience she brings to the position she holds and for past achievements.  We pray Lord, that You would direct her thoughts and plans as she works with colleagues and the people of the busy constituency of Calgary-Glenmore.  Refresh her with new strength as she carries out her role.  Amen.  

Anam Kazim was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, representing the constituency of Calgary-Glenmore, on May 5, 2015.

She is a member of the Standing Committee on Private Bills, the Standing Committee on Resource Stewardship and the Standing Committee on Privileges and Elections, Standing Orders and Printing. Previously she served as chair of the Standing Committee on Resource Stewardship.

Prior to serving with the Legislative Assembly, she spent two years as an applications engineer for an industrial pump manufacturer. Before that, she worked for two years as the director of training programs for an education and training centre that specialized in project management.

She also spent close to five years working with Western University, where she obtained her post-secondary education, first as a teaching assistant and later as a research assistant.

Ms. Kazim holds a master's degree in biochemical/environmental engineering, a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering and is certified in conflict resolution. While a student, she was involved in the investment club and the chemical engineering club. Ms. Kazim is also certified in Six Sigma Green Belt and in Lean Management.

As well, she has donated her time to fundraising for the Canadian Cancer Society and mentoring for Engineers Canada as part of its women in engineering program.

An avid traveler, Ms. Kazim has lived on four continents and has visited more than 16 countries. Through these experiences she has gained invaluable insight into the importance of diversity and multiculturalism.

Monday 29 May 2017

Mr. Brian Michael Jean - MLA for Fort McMurray-Conklin

Dear Lord, we are grateful for MLA Mr. Brian Jean as he serves in our legislature.  We pray for his involvement on boards and committees and that he would be directed to make plans so Alberta may continue to grow in strength and towards a promising future.  Bless and refresh him today we pray and may he know he is appreciated.  In Jesus Name, Amen. 

Leader of the Official Opposition

Brian Michael Jean was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, representing the constituency of Fort McMurray-Conklin, on May 5, 2015.

Prior to serving as a provincial representative, Mr. Jean served as the Member of Parliament for the constituency of Fort McMurray-Athabasca from 2004 to 2014. During his tenure he was appointed Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, a position he held from 2006 to 2011.

Before entering public service, he dedicated 11 years to private legal practice as partner at a large Northern Alberta law firm, primarily as a litigator. Mr. Jean’s areas of practice included corporate/commercial, criminal, constitutional, real estate, personal injury, family, wildlife and First Nations law. He also provided pro bono and legal aid counsel during this time.

Prior to becoming a lawyer, Mr. Jean pursued entrepreneurial endeavours, owning and operating a number of successful small businesses.

In addition to his extensive public service, he also has a long history of community service, including serving as director of the Fort McMurray chamber of commerce, president of the downtown business association and as honorary chair of the Children’s Health Foundation for northern Alberta.

In 1985 he was chair of the Alberta Summer Games Volunteer Committee, and in 1988 he was director of the Olympic Torch Committee for Fort McMurray. He founded the Fort McMurray Business Revitalization Zone as well as the Jean Family Scholarship for aboriginal students at Keyano College, where he also volunteered as an instructor from 1993 to 2006.

Over the years Mr. Jean has received numerous honours and awards, including being appointed as Queen’s Counsel and being presented with the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee medal.

In addition to a bachelor of laws, Mr. Jean also holds a bachelor of science degree and a masters in business administration.

Mr. Jean, the youngest of 11 children, has lived in Fort McMurray since the age of four and is a father of three.
He has been a printer, a logger, a farm hand and a registered trapper, and is an avid and capable outdoorsman, boater and hunter.

Friday 26 May 2017

Ms. Sandra Jansen - MLA for Calgary-North West

Dear Heavenly Father we thank You for MLA Ms. Sandra Jensen, and the constituency she serves in Calgary – North West.  We ask that You would give her wisdom as she serves on boards and committees in both her community and with her colleagues in the Legislature.  We pray that she would know what steps to take and what she should do as she seeks to serve the interests and needs of all Albertans.  May she be blessed with strength and vitality.  In Jesus Name, Amen.

Sandra Jansen was elected to her second term as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Calgary-North West on May 5, 2015.

She currently serves as a member of the Standing Committee on Families and Communities.

She previously served as Associate Minister of Family and Community Safety and as a member of the following committees:
  • Standing Committee on Public Accounts
  • Standing Committee on Privileges and Elections, Standing Orders and Printing
  • Standing Committee on Families and Communities
  • Select Special Ethics and Accountability Committee
  • Standing Committee on Alberta's Economic Future
She also served as Deputy Government Whip, chair of the Calgary caucus and co-chair of the Alberta Film Advisory Council.

Ms. Jansen earned a broadcasting diploma from the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology and later studied French at McGill University. She also holds a master's degree in professional communications from Royal Roads University. Ms. Jansen is an experienced journalist, having spent 23 years in the field, including 10 years as a national news anchor at CTV News Channel in Toronto. She also hosted the City TV Calgary show Your City from 2007 to 2010. Ms. Jansen later served as Premier Alison Redford's southern Alberta communications manager from October 2011 to March 2012.


A passionate advocate and dedicated volunteer, over the years she has been a spokesperson and a volunteer for the United Way, Calgary Health Trust, and Ronald McDonald House and a board member at the Calgary Girls' School. Ms. Jansen is an acrylic artist and has donated more than 50 paintings to various charities in the Calgary area.

Thursday 25 May 2017

Ms. Debbie Jabbour - MLA for Peace River

Father God, it is our prayer today for MLA Ms. Debbie Jabbour as she serves in the constituency of Peace River and in our legislature.  May You grant her a measure of wisdom and the insight she needs as she puts plans in motion for our province.  May she also feel appreciated and know how important her role is.  In Jesus Name, Amen.

Deputy Speaker and Chair of Committees

Debbie Jabbour was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, representing the constituency of Peace River, on May 5, 2015. On June 11, 2015, she was elected Deputy Speaker and Chair of Committees.

She currently serves as a member of the Special Standing Committee on Members' Services. She previously served as a member of the Standing Committee on Legislative Offices.

Prior to serving as a Member of the Legislative Assembly, she worked as a mental health specialist for 10 years with Almasana Creative Wellness as well as with Alberta Health Services in the year prior to her election. During this same time period she also worked as an analyst with Alberta Health, financial accountability and as a Hansard input editor with the Alberta Legislative Assembly. Prior to that, she worked in administrative roles, as a freelance writer and as a professional musician.

Born in Edmonton, Ms. Jabbour currently resides in High Level. Her grandparents on both sides came to Canada in the early 1900s. With the exception of two years in Central America Ms. Jabbour has called Alberta home her entire life.

She received her master of counselling in 2010 from the University of Calgary, University of Lethbridge and Athabasca University. In 2003 she received her bachelor of arts with a major in psychology and communications. She also holds a certificate in career counselling and is a provisional psychologist.

In her spare time Ms. Jabbour volunteers in her community with the Chinchaga Adult Learning Centre and as an actor with the High Level Theatre Troupe.


Ms. Jabbour enjoys spending time with her children and grandchildren. She is also interested in theatre, music, travel, reading and research.

Wednesday 24 May 2017

Mr. Grant Hunter - MLA for Cardston-Taber-Warner

Dear Heavenly Father, we are grateful for MLA Mr. Grant Hunter as he serves the people of Cardston-Taber-Warner in our beautiful Province.  We pray for strategies and creative ideas as he carries out his tasks and works through his day today.  May he experience renewed strength and vitality in the busyness of his schedule.  Amen.

Grant Hunter was elected as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Cardston-Taber-Warner on May 5, 2015. He currently serves as a member of the Standing Committee on Alberta's Economic Future and the Standing Committee on Public Accounts.

He currently serves as deputy chair of the Standing Committee on Resource Stewardship. Previously Mr. Hunter served as a member of the Standing Committee on Alberta's Economic Future and the Standing Committee on Public Accounts.

Prior to his election Mr. Hunter operated Hunter Construction, a residential and commercial construction company. He has also worked in the import and export business, in the media industry and as a former teacher in Alberta.

Mr. Hunter has served as a board member for several political and community organizations, including the Cardston Lions Club.


He resides in Cardston with his wife, Angie, and their five children.

Tuesday 23 May 2017

Mr. Trevor Horne - MLA for Spruce Grove-St. Albert

We pray Lord that You would bring upon MLA Mr. Trevor Horne, Your blessing.  We thank You that You provide him with all the knowledge and wisdom he needs to be a good steward of his office.  Lead and guide him we pray in his decision making as he serves his constituents in Spruce Grove-St. Albert.  We pray for windows of opportunity and new ideas for the good of all Albertans.  Amen. 

Trevor Horne was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, representing the constituency of Spruce Grove-St. Albert, on May 5, 2015.

He currently serves as a member of the Standing Committee on the Alberta Heritage Savings Trust Fund and the Standing Committee on Families and Communities. He also serves as a member of the Standing Committee on Legislative Offices and the Select Special Ombudsman and Public Interest Commissioner Search Committee.

Mr. Horne previously served as a member of the Standing Committee on Resource Stewardship and the Standing Committee on Alberta's Economic Future.

Prior to serving with the Legislative Assembly, Mr. Horne's focus centred primarily on involvement in his community. He volunteered during Alberta's 2012 general provincial election and 2013 municipal election. He was also previously involved in Scouts Canada.

More recently and while studying political science at MacEwan University, he served as chair of a post-secondary political association, beginning in 2012, and as policy chair for a political youth association, beginning in 2014.

He holds a graphic communications certificate from NAIT and attended MacEwan University from 2011 to 2015.
Mr. Horne was born in Edmonton and resides in St. Albert.

Friday 19 May 2017

Honourable Sarah Hoffman - MLA for Edmonton-Glenora

Dear Heavenly Father, we pray that Your blessing will come upon Hon. Sarah Hoffman.  We ask You Lord that she would see clearly the direction that she must go and be enlightened by Your wisdom for every situation she is facing.  Lord we ask that she would see progress as she continues to work towards a good future here in Alberta.  We thank You for strength and encouragement as she serves in the Premier’s Cabinet. Amen.

Deputy Premier

Minister of Health

Sarah Hoffman was elected as the Member of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta for Edmonton-Glenora on May 5, 2015. She was appointed to serve as Minister of Health and Minister of Seniors on May 24, 2015, and on February 2, 2016, Ms. Hoffman was named Deputy Premier, while continuing to serve as Minister of Health.

Ms. Hoffman holds a master of education (educational policy studies) and a bachelor of education (secondary math) from the University of Alberta. She also has a bachelor of science (math) and a bachelor of arts (religion) from Concordia University College of Alberta.

Ms. Hoffman worked as a researcher prior to becoming a trustee for the Edmonton public school board. During her first term as a school trustee, from 2010 to 2012, she served as vice-chair and was then acclaimed as board chair in 2012, 2013 and 2014.


An active community member, Ms. Hoffman has volunteered her time and skills to numerous organizations over the years, including the Alberta Association for Multicultural Education and the Alberta Community Crime Prevention Association.

Thursday 18 May 2017

Mr. Bruce Hinkley - MLA for Wetaskiwin-Camrose

We thank You Lord, that You have given Mr. Hinkley a heart of genuine concern for his people and the desire to make right decisions for them.  Lord, we ask that You would give him the wisdom to find solutions to problems he faces within his constituency so that people can see progress and a good future ahead.  We ask that You would bless him with Your love and protection.  Amen.

Bruce Hinkley was elected as the Member of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta for Wetaskiwin-Camrose on May 5, 2015.

He currently serves as a member of the Standing Committee on Private Bills and the Standing Committee on Families and Communities.

Mr. Hinkley holds a master's degree in education from the University of Alberta and a bachelor of education degree from the University of Calgary.

He was a small-business owner and operator and a veteran educator with over 30 years of experience, both as a classroom teacher and as an administrator. Mr. Hinkley served as the executive director for the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Wetaskiwin from 1986 to 1991.

Mr. Hinkley has supported local youth centres and supports sports and literacy organizations throughout Wetaskiwin and its surrounding area. He has coached hockey, baseball, volleyball and cross-country skiing.

Mr. Hinkley enjoys a wide range of hobbies, particularly running, hiking and walking his dogs. He has been alpine and cross-country skier. He is also presently enrolled in a Spanish language certificate program, and he is an avid collector of stamps and chess sets, many of which he finds on his travels around the world.


He and his family live in rural Wetaskiwin.

Wednesday 17 May 2017

Mr. David B. Hanson - MLA for Lac La Biche-St. Paul-Two Hills

Heavenly Father we are grateful for MLA Mr. David Hanson as he serves the people of Lac La Biche-St. Paul-Two Hills.  Give him Your wisdom as he fulfills his role.  Lord, may he be surrounded by wise counsellors so that he may continue to stand out as a good leader, excelling in his work. May he find Your presence with him and Your goodness being poured out over him and his family.   In Your Name, Amen.
 
David Hanson was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, representing the constituency of Lac La Biche-St. Paul-Two Hills, on May 5, 2015.

He currently serves as a member of the Standing Committee on Resource Stewardship and the Standing Committee on Privileges and Elections, Standing Orders and Printing. He previously served as a member of the Standing Committee on Alberta's Economic Future.

Prior to serving with the Legislative Assembly, Mr. Hanson worked for over 37 years in the construction industry in service of both the commercial and oil and gas sectors. Over the course of his career he has worked in various capacities, including as a foreman, as a superintendent and, most recently, as a consultant and construction inspector for a major Alberta oil and gas company.

He attended NAIT in 1982 and holds certification in three trades: plumbing, gasfitting and steamfitting. He also received a diploma in medical radiology in 1988.

Mr. Hanson is a member of the St. Paul & District Lions Club.


He was born and raised in Two Hills, and he and his family now reside on a farm northeast of St. Paul in the hamlet of Owlseye.

Tuesday 16 May 2017

Honourable Christina Gray - MLA for Edmonton-Mill Woods

Father God, we pray that You would make Your presence very real to Hon. Ms. Christina Gray and be with her through the tasks before her today.  May the people she represents in Edmonton-Millwoods come to the forefront of her mind.  We pray that she will see beyond the obvious to discern needs and urgent situations that require addressing as she serves in the cabinet position as Minister of Labour.  Lord, give her strength and courage as well as she serves in her constituency.  We speak your blessings over her and her family.  Amen.
  
Minister of Labour

Minister Responsible for Democratic Renewal

Christina Gray was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, representing the constituency of Edmonton-Mill Woods, on May 5, 2015. On February 2, 2016, Ms. Gray was appointed Minister of Labour and Minister Responsible for Democratic Renewal.

She previously served as chair of the Select Special Ethics and Accountability Committee and as deputy chair of the Standing Committee on Public Accounts.

Prior to serving with the Legislative Assembly, Ms. Gray worked as a senior consultant with a local software development consulting firm, beginning in 2008. Previous to this, she worked as a software developer and instructor.

Active in her community, she served on the Edmonton Transit System Advisory Board for six years, three years of which were in the capacity of chair. She also volunteered as a distress line operator with The Support Network for four years. In 2007 she was recognized for her various contributions with a YWCA of Edmonton women of distinction award.

She holds a bachelor of arts degree in psychology and a diploma in software development.

Ms. Gray and her husband, Neal, are long-term residents of Edmonton.

Monday 15 May 2017

Mr. Richard Gotfried - MLA for Calgary-Fish Creek

Father in Heaven, we ask that You would give MLA Mr. Richard Gotfried an extra measure of grace as he serves the people of Alberta.  May he experience a wisdom and knowledge above and beyond his own.  We pray that he will have eyes to see the good path You have laid out for him today, that will lead to success.  This we pray in the Name of Jesus.  Amen.

Richard Gotfried is proud to have been born and raised in Alberta. He was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, representing the constituency of Calgary-Fish Creek, on May 5, 2015.

Mr. Gotfried is a member of the standing committees on Public Accounts and Alberta's Economic Future.
Prior to serving with the Legislative Assembly, he spent over a decade working as a senior executive for a Calgary-based home builder. Earlier, he worked for over 15 years as a district sales manager for an international airline. In addition, he was vice-president of corporate and community engagement with Calgary Economic Development between 2011 and 2013.

As a strong supporter of community engagement he has volunteered with several community associations, including the Calgary Home Builders Foundation; the Hong Kong-Canada Business Association; Skål International, Calgary (the International Association of Travel and Tourism Professionals); Scouts Canada and GlobalFest. In addition, he is the founder of the public, essential and key employees (PEAK) home ownership program.

He was named international airline executive of the year in 1990 by Agent Canada, and in 2007 he received a community service award from the Canadian Home Builders' Association.

Mr. Gotfried holds a certificate in corporate and community involvement from the Carroll School of Management at Boston College and an executive management certificate from the University of Hong Kong and studied political science and economics at the University of Calgary.

Friday 12 May 2017

Ms. Nicole Goehring - MLA for Edmonton-Castle Downs

Heavenly Father, bless MLA Ms. Nicole Goehring with strength and wise counsel as she serves the people of Edmonton – Castle Downs.  Thank You for the experience she brings to her portfolio and to her constituents.  Surround her with knowledgeable people who will enable her to bring about success and advancement to the people of Alberta.  May she rise to fulfill her tasks at hand with courage and conviction.  Amen.

Nicole Goehring was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, representing the constituency of Edmonton-Castle Downs, on May 5, 2015.

She was appointed to the role of Government of Alberta’s Liaison to the Canadian Armed Forces shortly after being sworn in. In her role, Ms. Goehring is responsible for developing, supporting, promoting and sustaining government’s relationship with the Canadian Armed Forces. This led to Ms. Goehring’s appointment to the Edmonton Salutes Committee. This committee works collaboratively to support the military community in and around Edmonton.

She currently serves as chair of the Standing Committee on Families and Communities and as a member of the Standing Committee on Privileges and Elections and the Standing Orders and Printing and the Standing Committee on Public Accounts. Previously she served as chair of the Standing Committee on Resource Stewardship and as a member of the Special Standing Committee on Members’ Services and as a member of the Standing Committee on Families and Communities.

Prior to serving with the Legislative Assembly, Ms. Goehring worked for close to a decade with Child and Family Services in various capacities, including as a caseworker, assessor and, most recently, as a court co-ordinator. Previous to this, she worked with Edmonton Integrated Services for seven years, six of which she spent in the role of group home supervisor.

From 1996-1997 Ms. Goehring worked as a peers educating peers coordinator for TERRA Association, a program she co-created and implemented in schools, hospitals and universities to provide community education in the area of teen pregnancy. From 1995-1996 she was a youth mediator with Community and Family Services. At that time she co-created and implemented a youth friendly mediation manual and program, and worked with Edmonton school counselors and Edmonton police officers to mediate youth related situations in schools and communities to avoid suspensions, expulsion and or criminal charges.

An active parent, she has managed sports teams, has worked on parent advisory committees and has acted as a parent liaison.

She holds a diploma in social work from Grant MacEwan Community College (now known as MacEwan University).

Ms. Goehring lives in Edmonton with her husband, Shane, and three children.

Thursday 11 May 2017

Mr. Prab Gill - MLA for Calgary-Greenway

Heavenly Father we pray for MLA Mr. Prab Gill today.  Thank You for his desire to serve the people of Calgary – Greenway.  We pray that You would enable him to initiate changes that will bring advancement in the economy and security for all Albertans’.  We ask God that You would watch over Mr. Gill and his family showing Your great love for them.  Amen. 

Prabhdeep (Prab) Singh Gill was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta in the Calgary-Greenway by-election, which was held on March 22, 2016.

Prior to being elected, Mr. Gill worked as real estate appraiser and is a member of Appraisal Institute of Canada (AIC) and served as director of a real estate appraisal firm and director of an industrial construction firm.

He holds a bachelor of science in agriculture (honours) and is working on completing his postgraduate certificate in real property valuation (PGCV) from UBC Sauder School of Business.

Mr. Gill is an active member of his community. His experience includes involvement with the assured income for the severely handicapped (AISH) program, IES (Income and Employment Support) Alberta Works. He has also volunteered with the Heart and Stroke Foundation and a drug awareness associations.


Mr. Gill and his wife have two children. In his spare time he enjoys watching football, hockey, movies and spending time with his family.

Wednesday 10 May 2017

Honourable Kathleen Ganley - MLA for Calgary-Buffalo

Heavenly Father, bless the Calgary-Buffalo, Hon. Kathleen Ganley.  May she continue to have wisdom to fulfill her duties as Minister of Justice and Solicitor General and stands for the rights of all Albertans.  Give her patience for the challenges she faces as she walks through her day and guide her in her interactions with colleagues.  Bless her today with strength and peace.  Amen.

Kathleen Ganley was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, representing the constituency of Calgary-Buffalo, on May 5, 2015. She currently serves as Minister of Justice and Solicitor General.

Prior to serving with the Legislative Assembly, Ms. Ganley worked with a private law firm as an associate, specializing in labour, employment and human rights law. Previous to this, she articled with the Provincial Court of Alberta from June 2011 to March 2012.

Before beginning her legal career, Ms. Ganley spent a summer as a caseworker with student legal assistance and as a research assistant with RESOLVE Alberta, a research network focused on ending violence against women.

An avid volunteer, over the years she has donated her time to participating in a variety of community activities, including providing student legal assistance, delivering patient care at the Foothills hospital, coaching swimming, counselling children's day camp and assisting with community theatre.

In addition to receiving a number of scholarships and bursaries, Ms. Ganley was awarded the department of philosophy silver medallion and the University of Calgary undergraduate merit award.

Along with a juris doctor degree from the University of Calgary, she also holds a bachelor of arts in philosophy and a bachelor of science in psychology.

Tuesday 9 May 2017

Mr. Rick Fraser - MLA for Calgary-South East

Heavenly Father, we ask You today for MLA Rick Fraser that You would be with him in his daily duties and the commitments before him.  Guide him in the decisions he needs to make, with wisdom and understanding.  Thank You that he considers the good of the people he is serving in the constituency of Calgary – South East.  Bless and keep him and his family with peace.  In Jesus Name, Amen.

Rick Fraser was elected to his second term as the Member for Calgary-South East on May 5, 2015.
He currently serves as a member of the Standing Committee on Public Accounts and the Standing Committee on Private Bills.

He previously served as Legislative Secretary, Ambulance Services (reporting to the Minister of Health), as Associate Minister of Public Safety and as the Associate Minister of Recovery and Reconstruction of High River. As well he has served as a member of the following committees:
  • Special Standing Committee on Members' Services
  • Standing Committee on Families and Communities
  • Strategic Tourism and Marketing Council
  • Standing Committee on Resource Stewardship
Mr. Fraser also served as Deputy Government Whip. Like so many Canadians, one of Mr. Fraser's passions is the game of hockey. Upon graduating high school, he was drafted eighth overall in the 1994 East Coast Hockey League free agent draft by the Columbus Chill. He has enjoyed sharing his love for teamwork and volunteerism by coaching various sports teams in and around his community.

After three and a half years of college, he earned his advanced-care paramedic diploma in the University of Alberta Faculty of Augustana paramedic program. As an advanced-care paramedic, he was responsible for all advanced life-saving procedures outside of a hospital setting combined with advanced treat-and-release, and treat-and-refer protocols for the sick and injured anywhere in Alberta. In addition, Mr. Fraser has served the public for 12 years working for the ambulance service.

Mr. Fraser was a leader in his profession, operating as crew chief in Calgary and teaching advanced cardiac life support to EMS staff, physicians, nurses and students at Lakeland College in Camrose. From 2008 to 2010 he served as president of Calgary paramedics. Additionally, he sat on the Alberta College of Paramedics committee that is responsible for developing a critical care paramedic program and overseeing continuing education for all EMS staff in Alberta. Mr. Fraser also advocates for new paramedic students as the practicum co-ordinator for the Calgary zone of Lakeland College.


Born and raised in Calgary, Rick Fraser and his wife Mishelle are now raising two young sons in Calgary's southeast side.

Monday 8 May 2017

Ms. Maria Fitzpatrick - MLA for Lethbridge-East

Father in Heaven we pray today for MLA Maria M. Fitzpatrick.  We ask that you would continue to give her a sensitive heart and understanding for the needs and challenges of the people of Alberta. Thank you Lord that you help her to highlight the needs of those she represents, to the people that can make positive changes and move things forward for a better future. Bless her with your peace and presence today. Amen

Maria Fitzpatrick was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, representing the constituency of Lethbridge-East, on May 5, 2015.

She currently serves as chair of the Standing Committee on Privileges and Elections, Standing Orders and Printing and as a member of the Standing Committee on Alberta’s Economic Future.

Prior to her service with the Legislative Assembly she dedicated over 30 years of her life in the field of corrections. During this time she spent 20 years within operations serving as a parole officer both in the institution and the community; as a recreation supervisor, a basic literacy teacher and acting education co-ordinator; she served federally and with the territorial government of the Northwest Territories. She finished her career in corrections working for National Headquarters of the Correctional Service of Canada working in policy and project management. Maria took a 3 year leave of absence during her career when she was elected as the regional executive vice-president of the Public Service Alliance of Canada in the National Capital Region. 
Maria's work career began as a teacher with the Catholic school board in St. John's, Newfoundland.

Ms. Fitzpatrick's extensive community service spans over several decades and involves participation on several boards and in numerous associations, including United Way Ottawa, the Public Service Alliance of Canada and the National Association of Federal Retirees. In addition, she served as chair of the Lethbridge Regional Women's Committee, as vice-president of the Canadian Federation of University Women and as an event organizer with the Ottawa Regional Women's Committee. She is also a member of the McKillop United church choir. Maria actively worked with other volunteers in the community garden at the Agricultural Research Station in Lethbridge to provide produce to the Inter-faith food bank since 2013.

Born and educated in Newfoundland, she attended Memorial University in St. John's, Newfoundland, between 1966 and 1972 and received a diploma in education from St. Francis Xavier University in Nova Scotia in 1988.

Ms. Fitzpatrick is a well-known proponent of an active lifestyle. She was named St. John's female athlete of the year in 1969 and over the years has coached a number of track and field teams in several jurisdictions.

A resident of Lethbridge, she has called Alberta home for close to 20 years. She has three children.

Friday 5 May 2017

Mr. Derek Fildebrandt - MLA for Strathmore-Brooks

Heavenly Father, we thank you for MLA Derek Fidebrandt. We appreciate his heart to go the extra mile and be willing to do the tough stuff. May his desire to see change for the better, continue to inspire him and others to walk out their vision. We ask that you would give him the grace and ability to do what is necessary to implement that change. Amen

Derek Fildebrandt was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, representing the constituency of Strathmore-Brooks, on May 5, 2015.

He currently serves as a member of the Standing Committee on Public Accounts.

He previously served as chair of the Standing Committee on Public Accounts and as a member of the Special Standing Committee on Members' Services.

As well he serves as the Official Opposition's shadow minister of Finance and Treasury Board.

Prior to serving as a Member of the Legislative Assembly, Mr. Fildebrandt was the Alberta director and national research director of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation. He also previously worked as a policy analyst for the Forum of Labour Market Ministers for the British Columbia Public Service.

Born and educated in Ontario, Mr. Fildebrandt received his bachelor of arts, history and political science from Carleton University.


Mr. Fildebrandt enjoys a number of outdoor activities such as fishing, sport shooting and canoeing.