Mr. Wayne Anderson - MLA for Highwood

Father, we bring MLA Mr. Wayne Anderson before you today thanking you for the gift of his leadership. We pray that as he represents the constituents of Highwood, that he would experience ongoing wisdom and guidance. Surround him with people that are knowledgeable and have insight into the needs of Albertans and solutions to meet those needs. Amen

Wayne Anderson was elected as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for the constituency of Highwood on May 5, 2015.

He currently serves as a member of the Select Special Ethics and Accountability Committee and the Standing Committee on Private Bills.

Prior to entering politics, Mr. Anderson spent over 25 years in the information technology industry, holding positions in business development and management for major corporations. He also worked as an auto mechanic and a welder for CP Rail yards.

He attended the University of Winnipeg bachelor of science program and was actively involved in student and local politics. He held the positions of student council treasurer and president and participated on the board of regents and the university senate.

Mr. Anderson and his family reside on an acreage in the community of Davisburg in De Winton, Alberta.

Mr. Shaye Anderson - MLA for Leduc-Beaumont

Lord, we bring MLA Mr. Shayne Anderson before you grateful for his commitment to serve the people of Leduc and Beaumont. Grant him great wisdom as he works not only with his colleagues in the Legislature but with civic leaders and business leaders who together can bring about plans toward a positive and prosperous Alberta. Bless Mr. Anderson with health and strength for the long hours he gives to serving in his role. In your holy name we pray, Amen.

Shaye Anderson was elected as the Member of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta for Leduc-Beaumont on May 5, 2015.

He currently serves as a member of the Standing Committee on Alberta’s Economic Future and the Standing Committee on Private Bills. He previously served as a member of the Standing Committee on Resource Stewardship.

Mr. Anderson attended post-secondary studies in British Columbia, from where he originally hails. He obtained a diploma in physical education from Malaspina University-College, now known as Vancouver Island University, and also attended the University of Victoria's Faculty of Education.

For over 10 years Mr. Anderson has worked as a telecommunications technician; his employers include Telus Communications, Vista Telecom Networks and Shaw Cable. In 2015 Mr. Anderson was the recipient of Telus Communications' Customer First champion award.

Mr. Anderson has been involved with the Telecommunications Workers Union and United Steelworkers local 1944 as a shop steward and vice-president.

An avid sportsman, Mr. Anderson plays competitive fastball and rugby; he also helps coach his two sons' soccer and baseball teams.

He and his wife, Kelly, have two sons, Declan and Maddoc.

Mrs. Leela Sharon Aheer - MLA for Chestermere-Rocky View

God in Heaven, we thank you for MLA Ms. Leela Aheer and for all the work she has done, and continues to do for our beautiful province of Alberta. We pray that she would be encouraged with the result of her labours today and in the coming days. Continue to guide and bless her in her work and that she would prosper in all she does. Amen.

Leela Sharon Aheer was elected as the Member of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta for Chestermere-Rocky View on May 5, 2015.

She currently serves as a member of the Standing Committee on Resource Stewardship.

Mrs. Aheer has been a proud small-business owner since 1998. She has successfully operated a number of small businesses, each employing several people, including the Aheer Studio of Performance and Chestermere's WestCreek Auto Wash.

Mrs. Aheer studied political science at the University of Calgary for several years before obtaining a bachelor's degree in music from the University of Manitoba. She is a professional musician and is classically trained in all styles. She plays the flute and teaches voice, piano and guitar. Mrs. Aheer has won various awards at the Calgary Kiwanis music festival and has nine songs published to her credit. With her group Minerva she collaborated on a CD entitled Follow Me, which received a national release in Canada. She is fluent French and also sings and instructs voice in French, Italian, German, Spanish, Punjabi, Hindi and Telugu. She and her students have won awards and scholarships for voice and musical theatre.

Mrs. Aheer is an active volunteer, especially in areas of music and the arts. She is known to lend her time and energy to more than 50 events per year and has received numerous accolades for her efforts, including the volunteer of the year award from the town of Chestermere in 2013. Mrs. Aheer is a dedicated advocate for individuals with special needs and regularly spends her time volunteering at hospitals and other care facilities.

Mrs. Aheer along with her family – husband, Malkeet, and two children, Akesh and Sehran – reside in Chestermere.

Mr. Tany Yao - MLA for Fort McMurray-Wood Buffalo

Father in Heaven, we pray for MLA Tany Yao, today.   We ask that You would continue to give him a sensitive heart and understanding for the needs and challenges of the people of Alberta.  Thank You Lord for his 20 year career in emergency services and fire fighter training.  Help him to elevate the needs and concerns of those he represents, to the people that can make positive changes and move things forward in their lives for a better future.  Bless him with Your peace and presence today.   Amen

Tany Yao was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, representing the constituency of Fort McMurray-Wood Buffalo, on May 5, 2015.

He currently is a member of the Standing Committee on Families and Communities.

Prior to serving with the Legislative Assembly, he worked on his property portfolio between 2011 and 2015.

Before this, he began a 20 year career in emergency response services in 1991 in Ponoka. He then enrolled in NAIT's paramedic program and then worked with the Alberta Central Air Ambulance in Lac La Biche. He also worked for Peace Regional Emergency Medical Services and the Fort McMurray Fire Department. While with the FMFD he acted in a supervisory role and another four years as the Assistant Deputy Chief of Operations - EMS.

In addition to holding a diploma in paramedics, he has undergone extensive firefighter training. He also received certification in project management and in business administration.

Over the years he has volunteered his time to support various charitable organizations, including the Boys and Girls Club, the United Way, Muscular Dystrophy Canada, the Alberta Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) and the Canadian Cancer Society's Relay For Life.

Ms. Denise Woollard - MLA for Edmonton-Mill Creek

Heavenly Father, thank You for MLA Denise Wollard.  We pray for a heart that continues to go the extra mile as willing to do the tough stuff.  Thank You for the years of experiences in the education field as a teacher and school counsellor.  May her desire to see change for the better continue to inspire others to vote for change and give them the grace to do what is necessary to implement that change.  Amen.

Denise Woollard was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, representing the constituency of Edmonton-Mill Creek, on May 5, 2015.

She currently serves as a member of the Standing Committee on Legislative Offices and as a member of the Standing Committee on Resource Stewardship and the Standing Committee on Privileges and Elections, Standing Orders and Printing. She previously served as chair of the Standing Committee on Legislative Offices.

Prior to serving with the Legislative Assembly, Ms. Woollard worked for one term as a university facilitator at the University of Alberta. Previous to this, she worked for 8 years as an educational psychologist and 32 years as a teacher and counsellor at schools throughout the province with the Northland and Parkland school divisions.

An avid volunteer, she has dedicated over 35 years to community service, including serving on the board of directors for the Wabamun Public Library and volunteering for the Edmonton Folk Music Festival, the Citadel Theatre and the Canadian Federation of University Women.

Her extensive educational background includes a master's in education, a bachelor of arts in English, a professional diploma and a diploma in special education.

Ms. Woollard was raised in Edmonton and she and her adult children are long time Edmonton residents.

Mr. Cameron Westhead - MLA for Banff-Cochrane

Dear Lord, we pray this day for MLA Cameron Westhead.  Thank You for the years he has served as a registered nurse and pray his experience will enable him to more effectively have input as he serves on the committee of Families and communities.  As he sees what needs to be done from day to day give him the strength to do it and the wisdom to know when and what to delegate.  Bless him with health and well-being.  Amen.

Cameron Westhead was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, representing the constituency of Banff-Cochrane, on May 5, 2015.

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

Prior to serving with the Legislative Assembly, Mr. Westhead was a registered nurse with Alberta Health Services for 10 years, beginning in 2005. He most recently worked in the operating room at the Foothills hospital. During this time he also served as a workplace representative, an elected position which he held for four years.

He holds a bachelor of science in nursing from the University of Toronto and a bachelor of arts from Nipissing University.

Mr. Westhead and his wife call Bragg Creek home.

Honourable Robert Wanner - MLA for Medicine Hat

Dear Lord, we thank You today for Honourable MLA Robert Wanner.  We pray that his heart would continue to be moved towards doing what is right and good as he serves in the significant role of speaker of the House.  We are grateful for the 40 years plus of community service experience that will enable him to make decisions for Albertans with sensitivity and compassion.  We pray for strength in the busyness of his schedule and time to spend with his family and many grandchildren.   Amen. 

Speaker

Robert E. Wanner was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, representing the constituency of Medicine Hat, on May 5, 2015. On June 11, 2015, he was elected Speaker of the Legislative Assembly.

As Speaker he serves as chair of the Special Standing Committee on Members' Services and as president of the Alberta branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association.

Prior to his service with the Legislative Assembly, Mr. Wanner devoted 15 years to Canadians Reaching Out to the World's Children Foundation (CARO), of which he is a founding member and was president from 2000 to 2015. CARO is a Medicine Hat based foundation that is dedicated to improving the lives of vulnerable children in Medicine Hat and around the world.

Mr. Wanner started his career as a social worker with the province of Alberta in Grande Prairie, Alberta. He then enjoyed a lengthy career with the city of Medicine Hat, where he worked for over 35 years in various senior management and executive-level positions, including as director of preventive social services, as the Medicine Hat Police Service's director of administration and planning and as the superintendent of social planning and housing. In 1995 he was appointed to the executive leadership of the city of Medicine Hat as the public services commissioner, and he then served as a project leader of a major organizational development initiative.

He is a registered social worker (RSW), qualified mediator (QMed) and registered family mediator (RFM). In 2005 he formed and operated a private mediation, conflict resolution and small property development business.

Extensively involved in his community, Mr. Wanner has over 40 years of community service experience, including as a senator for the University of Calgary; a founding member and past president of the Gas City Former Employees Association; a volunteer for the Salvation Army, the United Way and several community theatre organizations and, most recently, as chair of a family care clinic (FCC) steering committee.

He holds a bachelor of arts from the University of Saskatchewan, a master of arts in social welfare policy from McMaster University and a master of business administration from the University of Calgary.

Born in Weyburn, Saskatchewan, Mr. Wanner has called Medicine Hat home since 1972. He and his wife, Joan Emard-Wanner, have four children and 11 grandchildren.

Mr. Glenn van Dijken - MLA for Barrhead-Morinville-Westlock

Lord, today we lift up MLA Glenn van Dijken to Your throne of grace.  We ask that You would give him insight and understanding as he serves in Barrhead – Morinville – Westlock.  We are grateful for the many sacrifices he makes to serve Albertans.  Bless MLA Van Dijken with health and vitality and may he feel Your presence with him today.  Amen. 

Glenn van Dijken was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, representing the constituency of Barrhead-Morinville-Westlock, on May 5, 2015.

He currently serves as a member of the Standing Committee on Legislative Offices and as a member of the Standing Committee on Privileges and Elections, Standing Orders and Printing. He is also a member of the Select Special Ethics and Accountability Committee.

Prior to serving with the Legislative Assembly, Mr. van Dijken's activities centred on operating his family grain farm in Dapp, Alberta, for which he and his spouse, Barb, were named Outstanding Young Farmers of Alberta in 2001.

He has also worked on various committees and boards. He co-chaired the Canadian Outstanding Young Farmer program from 2009 to 2010 and served on the board of directors for the Federated Co-operative Limited from 2011 to 2015, the Goldeye Foundation Society from 2011 to 2015 and the Neerlandia Co-operative Association Limited from 1996 to 2008.

A founding member of the Western Hog Exchange (WHE), Mr. van Dijken was a WHE director for 12 years, between 1997 and 2011, serving five years as vice-chair and two as chair.

Other community activity for Mr. van Dijken includes serving on his church council and volunteering as a hockey and baseball coach.

Dr. Bob Turner - MLA for Edmonton-Whitemud

Father God, we lift up MLA Dr. Bob Turner in the Edmonton – Whitemud Constituency.  We ask Lord that You would bless everything he puts his hand to today.  Surround him with Your presence and give him wisdom and understanding in the decisions that are his to make.  Bless MLA Turner and keep his family safe and may they know Your peace.  Amen.

Andrew Robert (Bob) Turner was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, representing the constituency of Edmonton-Whitemud, on May 5, 2015.

He currently serves as a member of the Standing Committee on Public Accounts and as a member on the Standing Committee on the Alberta Heritage Savings Trust Fund. Previously he served as Chair of the Standing Committee on Privileges and Elections, Standing Orders and Printing.

For nearly 40 years, he has served Albertans as an oncologist at the Cross Cancer Institute, the University of Alberta Hospital and other hospitals in northern Alberta. Dr. Turner, a retired professor of Medicine at the University of Alberta, has also lectured at leading Canadian and international medical teaching facilities and done clinical research in novel therapies of leukemias and other blood disorders.

Dr. Turner attended McGill University, where he received his science and medical degrees while also serving on the student council and board of governors. He went on to train in Internal Medicine at the Royal Victoria hospital in Montreal and then in Hematology and Medical Oncology at the University of Pittsburgh.

A dedicated member of the Edmonton medical community, Dr. Turner has served in a number of working groups and committees for entities such as the Alberta Medical Association, the University of Alberta Department of Medicine, Alberta Health Services, the Alberta Cancer Board and the Canadian Red Cross Blood Transfusion Service. Dr. Turner has also been widely published in academic medical journals and has contributed to a number of medical textbooks.

Dr. Turner and his wife, Dr. Joan Allalunis-Turner, reside in Edmonton and have two children, Emily and Simon, and one grandson. Bob enjoys an active lifestyle that includes cycling, curling, skiing and running. His hobby is the study of western Canadian history, particularly explorers and mapmakers such as David Thompson.

Mr. Wes Taylor - MLA for Battle River-Wainwright

Lord, we are thankful today for our public servants and recognize today MLA Wes Taylor.  Encourage him as he seeks to bring about changes that will improve the quality of life for the residents of Battle River – Wainwright and bring about changes for all the people of Alberta.  May he experience Your peace and health and well-being to continue to serve in his important role in our legislature.   Amen.

Wes Taylor was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta as the Member for the constituency of Battle River-Wainwright on May 5, 2015. On June 1 he was appointed by Brian Jean as shadow cabinet spokesman for Innovation and Advanced Education.

He currently serves as a member of the Standing Committee on the Alberta Heritage Savings Trust Fund and of the Standing Committee on Alberta's Economic Future.

Prior to his service with the Legislative Assembly Mr. Taylor was employed as a realtor from 1998 to 2014. He also has a bachelor of education degree from the University of Alberta and worked as a teacher in the Buffalo Trail school division for five years.

An active member of the community, Mr. Taylor has served as a member of the board for Wainwright Pentecostal Assembly, director of Eastalta Co-op and director of the Alberta Real Estate Association. In addition Mr. Taylor is a volunteer firefighter.

Mr. Taylor and his wife, Eileen, reside in Wainwright and have three children: Chantel, Matthew and Ashley. He enjoys golfing, motorcycles, scuba diving and auto-body refinishing. He also holds a black belt in Tae-Kwon-do.

Ms. Heather Sweet - MLA for Edmonton-Manning

Father in Heaven we are thankful today for MLA Ms. Heather Sweet and her commitment to public life.  We pray that the knowledge and experience gained in other sectors of society would prove to be an asset to her as she serves the people of Edmonton – Manning.  Keep her in good health and may she rest well at night and be energized for the day.   Amen.  

Heather Sweet was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, representing the constituency of Edmonton-Manning, on May 5, 2015.

She currently serves as chair of the Standing Committee on Families and Communities and as deputy chair of the Standing Committee on Legislative Offices.

Prior to serving with the Legislative Assembly, Ms. Sweet worked for over a decade as a registered social worker. From 2005 to 2015 she worked in child protection services, focusing on high-risk youth, and previous to this, she worked for a year with the Metis Child and Family Services Society.

She was a member of the Alberta Union of Provincial Employees' Committee on Political Action and served as chapter chair for Edmonton and Area Human Services workers.

Active in her community, Ms. Sweet has volunteered at the Vancouver Olympics and the Edmonton Folk Music Festival and with FIFA Edmonton.

She was recently honoured to be among those selected to attend the Governor General's Canadian Leadership Conference in 2015.

Dr. David Swann - MLA for Calgary-Mountain View

Lord, we pray that You would surround MLA David Swann today and in up and coming days with Your guidance and wisdom.  Continue to make him aware of the needs of the Calgary – Mountain View constituency and may his thoughts and plans be established by You.   We pray that You would give him favor and a good repore with all those he comes in contact with today.  Amen.

David Swann was elected to his fourth term as a Member of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta for the constituency of Calgary-Mountain View on May 5, 2015. From December 15, 2008 to September 12, 2011, Dr. Swann served as leader of the Alberta Liberal caucus, Her Majesty’s Official Opposition.

He currently serves as a member of the Standing Committee on Families and Communities and on the Select Special Ethics and Accountability Committee.

He previously served as critic for Health and Wellness and Executive Council. Additionally, Dr. Swann served as a member of the following Standing Committees:

• Public Health and Safety
• Private Bills
• Families and Communities
• Privileges and Elections, Standing Orders and Printing

During his first term Dr. Swann was environment critic and also served as deputy chair of the Standing Committee on Resources and Environment and as a member of the Private Bills Committee and the Standing Committee on Health.

Dr. Swann graduated from the University of Alberta with his B.MSc. in 1971, his MD in 1973 and from the University of Calgary with his FRCP(C) in 1988. He practised as a family physician from 1975 to 1984 and then as a public health consultant from 1988 to 2004.

Dr. Swann is active within his community and was responsible for initiating the Healthy City Project in Calgary in 1987. He was also a part of developing the first pesticide-free park in Calgary in 1998 and has been involved in a number of anti-sanctions, anti-war movements from 1995 to 2004, which included three trips to Iraq.

He was involved in the publication of Finding My Voice for Peace (from Canada and the New American Empire, ed. George Melnyk). Dr. Swann was also honoured with the Gold Star Teaching Award in both 1999 and 2003 from the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Calgary.

Dr. Swann has been actively involved in raising issues of human security and human rights both locally (farm-workers) and internationally (Darfur).

Dr. Swann and his wife, Laureen, have three children. During his free time he enjoys peace and justice work, music and singing, jogging, woodworking and writing.

Mr. Graham D. Sucha - MLA for Calgary-Shaw

Lord, we are praying together today for MLA Graham Sucha.  Give him clarity and the ability to make wise decisions in the many duties he fulfills.  Lead and guide him to opportunities that would best benefit his constituents.  We pray that You would bless Mr. Sucha with health and peace.  In Your Name, Amen.

  

Graham Sucha was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, representing the constituency of Calgary-Shaw, 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 Resource Stewardship. He previously served as a member of the Standing Committee on Alberta's Economic Future.

Prior to serving with the Legislative Assembly, he worked for over a decade in restaurant management, overseeing several restaurants in the Calgary area. While there he aided in raising money for several charities including the Special Olympics and 2013 Flood Relief.

He holds a diploma in television and broadcasting from Algonquin College and studied political science at Carleton University in Ottawa. While in Ottawa he completed a broadcasting placement with the Canadian armed forces’ Army News.

A second generation Calgarian, Graham is proud of his family heritage that has roots in Great Britain and Slovakia. Growing up in Marlborough Park, he currently resides in Millrise with his wife and three children.

Mr. Rick Strankman - MLA for Drumheller-Stettler

Father in Heaven it is with gratitude we come in prayer for Mr. Rick Strankman and for the season of service he has given to the people of Drumheller – Stettler.  We know that previous experience has shaped him to be the person he is today and we are grateful for that experience.  Give him energy for the road ahead and wisdom to make the best choices for the people of this province.  Bless him and family and give them understanding when his schedule get busy.  Amen.

Rick Strankman was elected to his second term as a Member of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta for the constituency of Drumheller-Stettler on May 5, 2015.

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

Mr. Strankman has owned and operated a farming business since 1973. From 1999 to 2011 he also volunteered as secretary/treasurer of the Western Barley Growers Association. Although initially interested in agriculture, Mr. Strankman became increasingly involved in politics and social activism in response to federal regulation of the agriculture industry, including legislation relating to the Canadian Wheat Board.

Mr. Strankman was jailed in 2002 after being charged under the Customs Act for taking 756 bushels of wheat across the U.S. border in protest of the Canadian Wheat Board’s monopoly. He and the other farmers that were arrested received a pardon from Prime Minister Stephen Harper on August 1, 2012, when the federal government’s Marketing Freedom for Grain Farmers Act came into effect, which allowed producers to opt out of the Canadian Wheat Board and sell wheat on the open market. He served one week of a 180 day sentence.

His commitment to public service began early on and as a youth Mr. Strankman was honored with the Queen’s scout award by Boy Scouts of Canada.

Mr. Strankman also has a keen interest in aviation and has held a pilot’s license and done aerial application since 1974. He and his wife Dianne live in Altario and have two grown children.

Mr. Pat Stier - MLA for Livingstone-Macleod

Heavenly Father we pray for MLA Mr. Pat Stier in the constituency of Livingstone – MacLeod and we ask that You would bless him today.  Lord give him strength and wisdom for You said if we need wisdom to just ask You.  We pray for You to guide his thoughts as he makes decisions today and may he experience joy in serving.  Amen.

Pat Stier was elected to his second term as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Livingstone-Macleod on May 5, 2015. During his first term he served as Chief Opposition Whip.

He currently serves as a member of the Standing Committee on Private Bills and as a member of the Standing Committee on Resource Stewardship.

Mr. Stier has lived in Alberta’s foothills region his entire life. He grew up on the family ranch near De Winton, where he and his family have raised Angus cattle, Arabian horses and various crops for more than 30 years. He attended school in Okotoks.

Throughout his working career Mr. Stier was employed primarily in the seismic data segment of the oil and gas industry in Calgary. He is President of River Canyon Enterprises Inc., a rural land planning consulting company in the foothills region.

Mr. Stier has many years of experience in municipal government including service on planning, subdivision, development, and assessment boards prior to his election as a municipal councillor from 2004 to 2007 with the Municipal District of Foothills. He served as President of the Dunbow Road Area Residents Association from 1988 to 1999.

Dr. Richard Starke - MLA for Vermilion-Lloydminster

Father in Heaven, we thank You for MLA Dr. Richard Starke.  We are grateful as well for his position in our province and active involvement in the constituency of Vermillion – Lloydminster.  For His responsibilities today, fill him with Your clarity, insight and wisdom and bless his team with even a greater sense of purpose.  Continue to protect and grant health and well-being to Dr. Starke.   Amen.

Richard Starke was elected to his second term as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Vermilion-Lloydminster on May 5, 2015.

He currently serves as a member of the Standing Committee on Privileges and Elections, Standing Orders and Printing. He is also a member of the Select Special Ethics and Accountability Committee.

Dr. Starke previously served as a member of the Treasury Board and the Standing Policy Committees on Health and Seniors, and Environment and Energy. During his first term he was also a member of the Standing Committee on Privileges and Elections, Standing Orders and Printing and served as chair of the Rural Health Care Review Panel.

Prior to that he had served as Minister of Tourism, Parks and Recreation and as chair of the Natural Resources and Environment Ministerial Group. In addition, he has served as a member of the following committees and boards: the Agenda and Priorities Committee, Operations and Policy Cabinet Committee, Southern Alberta Recovery Ministerial Task Force and the Families and Community Ministerial Group. He has also served as a member of the Legislature Standing Committees on Alberta’s Economic Future, Public Accounts and Private Bills.

Dr. Starke was born and raised in Edmonton. He attended the University of Alberta and later the Western College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Saskatchewan, where he graduated with a doctor of veterinary medicine (DVM) in 1983. Dr. Starke joined the Lloydminster Animal Hospital in 1983, became a partner in 1985 and was senior partner from 1990 until his retirement from practice in December 2011.

Dr. Starke first became interested in politics while in high school, when he participated in model parliamentary activities as a member of the TUXIS Parliament of Alberta. During his time in TUXIS Parliament he served in various cabinet positions and as Premier and Speaker. He also represented Alberta at the first National Youth Parliament in Ottawa in 1980, serving as Minister of Energy. In 1985 he became the youngest person to be elected to city council in Lloydminster, when at the age of 25 he was elected alderman. He served two terms, from 1985 to 1991.

An active member of his community, Dr. Starke has served as a member and board chair of the Lloydminster Region Health Foundation. He has been involved with the Rotary Club of Lloydminster and Rotary International since the late 1980s, and he is a founding member of Lloydminster’s German Heritage Society. He has also served as director of coaching and programs for the Lloydminster Border Blades Speed Skating Club.

Dr. Starke lives north of Lloydminster in the Durness district with his wife, Alison, their Bernese Mountain Dog, Liesl, and two annoyingly affectionate cats. Both of their sons currently attend university.

Mr. Mark Smith - MLA for Drayton Valley-Devon

Lord as we pray today for MLA Mark Smith in Drayton Valley – Devon, we thank You for his faithful service to his constituents.  We ask You Lord to give him strength today and for all his decisions, wisdom and direction.  May he hear Your discerning voice giving him a clear understanding in all his ways.  We pray Father for protection over him and his family.   Amen. 

Mark Smith was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, representing the constituency of Drayton Valley-Devon, on May 5, 2015.

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

Prior to serving as a Member of the Legislative Assembly, Mr. Smith was a social studies teacher with 30 years of experience as an educator.

While having been born in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, Mr. Smith completed his postsecondary education in Alberta. He began studying at Concordia College in 1979 and later received his bachelor of education degree from the University of Alberta.

An avid sportsman who enjoys football, hockey and basketball, Mr. Smith has dedicated a great deal of his personal time over the past 30 years to volunteering as a basketball coach. He has also volunteered on the board for Calvary Baptist church in Drayton Valley for many years.

Mr. Smith and his wife, Lisa, have three children: Joshua, Luke and Sarah.

Honourable Lori Sigurdson - MLA for Edmonton-Riverview

Lord God, we thank You for the Honourable Ms. Lori Sigurdson and the abilities she brings to the responsibilities she carries.  Thank You as well for the passion she has for serving as Minister of Advanced Education and the development of training and skills in the labour force here in Alberta.  May she experience satisfaction and fulfilment as she involves herself in local events, meets individuals and families and seeks to acquaint herself with their needs.   Amen. 

Minister of Advanced Education

Minister of Jobs, Skills, Training and Labour

Lori Sigurdson was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, representing the constituency of Edmonton-Riverview on May 5, 2015. She was appointed to serve as Minister of Innovation and Advanced Education and Minister of Jobs, Skills, Training and Labour, on May 24, 2015. On October 22, 2015 the Minister was sworn in as the Minister of Advanced Education. Her portfolio with Jobs, Skills, Training and Labour remained the same.

Ms. Sigurdson holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science from the University of Alberta as well as Bachelor and Master of Social Work Degrees from the University of Calgary. She has over 25 years of experience as a social worker. In addition, Ms. Sigurdson served as an instructor at the University of Calgary, Grant MacEwan University and Norquest College. Most recently she was employed at the Alberta College of Social Workers as the manager of professional affairs.

A mother of three sons, Ms. Sigurdson is an active volunteer in her community. She served as the vice-president of Public Interest Alberta and, has been involved in the work of the Parkland Institute, the Greater Edmonton Alliance, The Mayor’s Task Force to Eliminate Poverty, Ritchie United Church and the Alberta College of Registered Social Workers.

Mr. David Shepherd - MLA for Edmonton-Centre

We pray today for our MLA David Shepherd as he serves in Edmonton – Centre.  Give him everything he needs and requires for the tasks ahead of him.  We are grateful for the sacrifices he has made working in this position and pray for health and strength.  We pray that he would sense Your presence as he goes about his work today.  Bless Mr. Shepherd’s family and protect and keep them safe in Your care.  In Your Name Jesus.  Amen.

avid Shepherd was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, representing the constituency of Edmonton-Centre, on May 5, 2015.

He currently serves as a member of the Standing Committee on Legislative Offices and the Standing Committee on Families and Communities.

Prior to serving with the Legislative Assembly, Mr. Shepherd worked in the communications field as a communications adviser and writer for organizations such as the North Edge Business Association, the city of Edmonton and the government of Alberta. Before his career in communications, Mr. Shepherd held a variety of employment positions such as taxpayer services agent and salesperson in support of his work as a musician and studio engineer.

His educational background includes diplomas in music performance and in live sound recording from MacEwan University. He also has a bachelor of arts in professional communications from Royal Roads University, where he received the Royal Roads University chancellor's award in 2014.

Mr. Shepherd leads an active lifestyle in Edmonton. He is an avid cyclist and has volunteered for the Edmonton Bike Coalition as a spokesperson and organizer. He also enjoys live music, film and playing the piano.

Mrs. Kim Schreiner - MLA for Red Deer-North

Dear Heavenly Father, Mrs. Kim Schreiner has committed herself to being a part of the government team leading our Province.  As You know, her position requires time, wisdom, courage and travel.  We pray that You would grant her an awareness of Your involvement in her life as you are involved in all the affairs of your creation.  We pray also that You grant her the wisdom and courage to make the decisions facing her daily and also to be able to manage her time well as she faces multiple priorities.  Also, Lord, grant her safety in all her travels. Thank you. In Jesus Name, Amen

Kim Schreiner was elected to the Legislative Assembly of Alberta, representing the constituency of Red Deer-North, on May 5, 2015.

She currently serves as a Member of the Standing Committee on Alberta’s Economic Future, and the Special Standing Committee on Members’ Services.

Prior to her serving with the Legislative Assembly, Mrs. Schreiner had a long standing career in the health sector working with seniors and individuals with mental and physical disabilities since 1989. During this time she occupied the position of Chief Union Steward and advocated for occupational health and safety within the local Alberta Union of Provincial Employees. Additionally, she provided guidance pertaining to resident advisory committees and family councils.

Born in Abitibi, Quebec, she has called Red Deer home for over 30 years. As an active member in her community, Mrs. Schreiner has volunteered much of her time and abilities to various organizations. She was a strong advocate within the educational system ensuring the continuation of the hot lunch and reading programs.

 Additionally, for over 20 years Mrs. Schreiner has volunteered with The Kidney Foundation, the Canadian Cancer Society and the Canadian Diabetes Association.