MLA: HON. SHARON BLADY - KIRKFIELD PARK

Lord, we are blessed to have people like Hon. Sharon Blady who care enough about their communities and province to enter the political arena and seek to serve others.  We pray for her today as she serves our province as Minister of Health.  This is a complex and challenging portfolio and we ask that You would help Sharon rise to the challenges that this particular ministry presents.  She needs Your wisdom, Your insights, Your strength to help succeed in this role.  As those who will benefit from her success we ask she would know Your favour and blessing on her life and work in every way. Amen

Minister of health

"Kirkfield Park is a caring and active community – my job is to support our community by finding new ways of making life better and more affordable for the families who live here."

• First appointed to cabinet in 2013
• First elected in 2007
• Deep roots in the community, active on parent councils and the Block Parent program

Sharon was elected as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Kirkfield Park on May 22, 2007 and was re-elected on October 4, 2011. She was appointed Minister of Healthy Living and Seniors by Premier Greg Selinger on October 18, 2013.
Sharon has deep roots in the community, where she attended Buchanan Elementary, Hedges Junior High and Silver Heights Collegiate. She is proud to be raising her two boys in the neighbourhood, where they have attended École Bannatyne, Golden Gate and Silver Heights/Sturgeon Heights Collegiate.
Sharon has taken on various additional roles since being elected. She served on several government committees, including as president of the Manitoba section of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Francophonie (L’assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie). She was also an Energy Committee member for the Midwestern Legislators' Conference.
Prior to her election, Sharon was an educator, decolonization scholar and published author, focusing on the art, history and gender relations of First Peoples in Canada and working for social justice for women and Aboriginal peoples. Sharon has over 15 years’ experience teaching at post-secondary institutions across Canada, including teaching in the Joint Baccalaureate Nursing Program and the Inner City Social Work Program at the University of Manitoba. She also designed and taught introductory courses for the Gender and Women’s Studies Program at Brandon University.
Sharon brings her experience as an activist and a mother to her role as MLA for Kirkfield Park. With her involvement on parent councils and the Block Parent program, as well as with social justice and environmental groups like the University of Manitoba Recycling and Environmental Group and the Western Canada Wilderness Committee, she has brought energy and commitment to providing a better future for our children, our community, and our planet.

MLA: HON. PETER BJORNSON - GIMLI

Our Heavenly Father, We come to you in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord to intercede on behalf of our MLA for Gimli, Hon. Peter Bjornson. We thank you for the gifts, talents, passions and insights you have instilled in him. We ask that you would give Peter an increase in wisdom as he serves this critical role as Minister of Education and Advanced Learning. Guide him through the presence and power of Holy Spirit so that he will know he will know that he is honouring you as he serves the people you have placed under his care. May your righteousness guard him so that in the intensity of his calling he will find rest and refreshment for his spirit, soul and body. In every relationship, whether personal or professional, he will be what you need him to be so that, through him people will experience your grace, mercy and truth. We ask this in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Minister of education and advanced learning

“I care about what you care about. Making life affordable, creating opportunities and making sure services are there when you need them.”

• First appointed to cabinet in 2003
• First elected in 2003

Peter Bjornson was elected in the June 2003 general election, re-elected in 2007, and again in 2011. He was appointed the Minister of Education, Citizenship and Youth by Premier Gary Doer in 2003 and re-appointed after the 2007 election. In November 2009, he became Minister of Entrepreneurship, Training and Trade under Premier Greg Selinger. Finally, on October 18, 2013, he was appointed Minister of Housing and Community Development.
A teacher by profession, Peter devoted 13 years of his life to his students before entering politics. Peter's involvement at the scholastic level has included coaching volleyball and basketball, assisting with student council, and participating in the drug and alcohol policy, school improvement, and discipline committees. A teacher advocate and member of the Evergreen Teachers' Association Executive, Peter served as president in 1996.
Peter has also served as a councilor for the Town of Gimli where he gained valuable experience in local governance. During his term from 1998 to 2002, Gimli saw many improvements made and initiatives undertaken such as upgrades to recreational facilities and other infrastructure projects, including the harbour park development and a new public works facility. During his term, Peter was a key player in the historic municipal merger between the Town and RM of Gimli. There was also a reduction in municipal taxes during his time on council.
A young entrepreneur, Peter ran a successful small business for 15 years.
During his six years as Minister of Education, Peter substantially advanced Inclusive Education and Aboriginal Academic Achievement initiatives and initiated the Education for Sustainable Development grant program. He also increased funding for a number of important programs and put forth many innovations in curriculum and resource supports, including Safe Schools, Assessment for Learning, mandatory physical education and nutrition policies, amongst many others.
Peter was raised in a household where community service wasn't unique or exceptional, but expected. He has served on the Gimli and District Restitution and Reconciliation Committee for Youth Justice and was president of the Kinsmen Club of Gimli. Peter was also co-chair for two Kinsmen projects that raised capital funds for a new health centre. Furthermore, Peter has represented the town of Gimli on the Gimli Recreation Society, the Icelandic Festival Committee, the Gimli Youth Advisory Board, the Western Canada Summer Games, the Gimli Fire Committee, the Gimli Harbour Committee and the Canada Day Committee. He also served as chairperson of the Parks and Recreation Committee.
Peter's innovative teaching methods, curiosity, and desire for excellence have been recognized through numerous awards such as the Queen's Jubilee Medal, the Governor General's Award for Excellence in Teaching Canadian History (2000 & 2003) and the Prime Minister's Award in 2001. Peter's awareness of history and its impact on our province as well as events that may shape our future make him an excellent MLA to represent the constituency of Gimli.

MLA: HON. STEVE ASHTON - THOMPSON

Lord, your word says that you are a God of justice, love and compassion. In his career thirty years plus career as a servant to the people of Manitoba, Hon. Steve Ashton has tried his best to ensure the fair treatment of workers and to ensure their safety in the work place. In his efforts to ensure social and economic justice for all, the heart of God the Father is reflected, for Jesus himself said that God shows no favouritism. We ask that you give your eternal wisdom to Steve in order to best represent the people of Thompson. In these fiscally challenging days, we ask for God’s vision and favour as Steve seeks to improve upon the infrastructure within the province. As Manitoba led the way with the Red River Diversion, may you grant him and his colleagues the insight needed to deal with the continued flooding challenges of Manitoba. Bless his family with your grace and love. Amen.


Minister of infrastructure and transportation
Minister responsible for emergency measures

"Our infrastructure is key to our future economic growth. With CentrePort Canada the Port of Churchill, our world class airports, rail lines and highway links we have the opportunity to transform Manitoba into an international hub of trade and transportation."

Steve was first elected to the Manitoba Legislature in 1981. He has been re-elected eight consecutive times. Before Premier Greg Selinger appointed Steve as the Minister of Infrastructure and Transportation, he served as the Minister of Conservation, the Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs and Minister responsible for Emergency Measures, and in November 2003 he was named Minister of Water Stewardship, a department solely committed to water issues and the first such department to be created in Canada.
Steve is also the minister responsible for Emergency Measures, and has worked hard to protect homes and communities from last year’s historic flooding.

More About Steve

• Received a B.A. (Hon.) in Political Studies at the University of Manitoba and a M.A. in Economics from Lakehead University
• Has lived in Thompson since 1967 – his wife Hari Dimitrakopoulou-Ashton is a college instructor
• Has two children – Niki, the MP for Churchill and Alexander, an instructor with the University College of the North in Thompson.

MLA: ROB ALTEMEYER - WOLSELEY

Lord, thank you for people like MLA Rob Altemeyer who are willing to commit their lives to public service. We ask that you give him health, strength and safety as he serves the people of his constituency, WolselEy.  We pray you would grant ROB wisdom during this time of uncertainty in his party. Surround him with leaders and workers who will help him build his community upon the foundations of justice and integrity. Amen. 
 

"Our lakes, rivers, forests and grasslands are an inheritance we cannot afford to squander. By implementing the best environmental laws in Canada, we can preserve our natural environment for generations of families to enjoy."

Rob was first elected 2003 and re-elected in 2007. He is honoured to represent the diverse and dynamic neighbourhoods of West Broadway, St. Matthew’s, Armstrong Point, Spence and Wolseley. Rob’s priorities at the legislature reflect the priorities of his constituents, including green initiatives and poverty reduction.
Rob’s extensive background working on environmental issues led Premier Selinger to appoint Rob as the Legislative Assistant to both the Minister of Housing and Community Development and the Minister of Conservation. Rob also serves as a Deputy Chair to the Committee of the Whole in the Legislative Chamber.

More About Rob

• Attended university in North Dakota on an academic-athletic scholarship
• Completed a master’s degree in natural resource management at the University of Manitoba, where he also played a key role in bringing recycling programs to the University of Manitoba and went on to become its first Waste Prevention Coordinator.
• As a student, co-founded the Global Change Game, an internationally recognized world-issues education workshop that toured extensively across Canada and which has since been transferred to OXFAM for international distribution.
• Volunteers every year as Coordinator of Composting Program at the Winnipeg Folk Festival.
• Completes at least one half marathon race every year and has competed at the national or international level in three different sports: hockey, baseball and ultimate frisbee.

MLA: HON. JAMES ALLUM - FORT GARRY-RIVERVIEW

Lord we lift Hon. James Allum up to you today. As James works towards a better Manitoba for future generations. We pray for wisdom, courage and encouragement for him throughout his daily decisions. May you bless him, his wife and family as he serves. We ask this in Jesus name, Amen

Minister of justice and attorney general
Minister responsible for constitutional affairs
Minister charged with the administration of the Manitoba Public Insurance Corporation Act

“Strong neighbourhoods create a strong Manitoba. I’m looking forward to working with Greg Selinger and Today’s NDP to continue making Manitoba an even better place to live, work and raise a family.”

• First appointed to cabinet in 2013
• First elected in 2011
• Well known advocate for civic heritage, urban sustainability, public education and community development

James was elected as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Fort Garry-Riverview on October 4, 2011 following a fifteen-year career with the City of Winnipeg. He was appointed Minister of Education and Advanced Learning by Premier Greg Selinger on October 18, 2013.
James moved to Winnipeg in 1996 to work at the City of Winnipeg Archives, which houses one of the finest municipal archival collections in Canada. In 2001, James joined the CAO (Chief Administrative Officer) Secretariat where he served in a variety of positions including Corporate Projects Officer, Executive Assistant and Policy Advisor to the CAO, Acting Environmental Coordinator, and Senior Consultant in Strategic Management. His last post was as the Manager of Aboriginal Initiatives in the Office of the CAO.
James completed a BA and MA at Trent University in Peterborough, where he won the Governor General’s Gold Medal for Academic Achievement in 1988. He holds a PhD in Canadian and Environmental History from Queen’s University. In addition to writing the first PhD thesis in Environmental History at Queen’s, he has published a variety of articles and book reviews over the years.
James is active in the local academic, educational, heritage and political communities. He taught part-time in the Department of History at the University of Winnipeg from 1999 to 2006 and served as Chair of the Manitoba Heritage Council from 2002 to 2006. In 2008, he was named Chair of the Council on Post-secondary Education for the Province of Manitoba.
He is a former board member of the Riverview Community Club and convener for Riverview in the Pembina Trail Hockey Association. He is also the founder of the Connecting Communities Project, which encourages mutual aid and support between neighbourhoods in Winnipeg. A well-known advocate for active transportation and green commuting, James is also an avid sports fan and participant with an intense interest in hockey, baseball, football, and golf.
He and his wife Susan have three adult children and are proud to call Winnipeg home.

MLA: NANCY ALLAN - ST VITAL

Heavenly Father, thank you for MLA Nancy Allen.  Thank you for her gifts, her abilities and the broad and diverse experience that has prepared her for service and leadership within our province.  We pray that You would bless Nancy abundantly today!  Grant her wisdom and insight so that she can effectively represent and serve her constituents in St. Vital.  Bless her family, her staff and those that surround her today.

In Jesus Name, Amen

• First elected in 1999
• Served in cabinet from 2003 to 2013
• Avid supporter of education, entrepreneurship and environmental issues

Nancy Allan was first elected to the Manitoba Legislature in 1999 as the MLA for St. Vital and re-elected in 2003, 2007 and 2011. In November 2003, she was appointed the Minister of Labour and Immigration, Minister responsible for Multiculturalism, the Workers Compensation Board, and Status of Women. In November 2009, Nancy was appointed the Minister of Education under Premier Greg Selinger where she served until 2013.
Prior to 2003, she was a member of the Legislative Assembly Management Commission and participated on the Task Force for Graduated Drivers Licenses. Nancy also served as the Legislative Assistant to the Minister of Education and Youth, and to the Minister of Culture, Heritage and Tourism.
Nancy served as a school trustee in the Norwood School Division and as Chair of the St. Boniface School Division Finance Committee. She was on the Amalgamation Steering Committee for the Norwood and St. Boniface School Divisions, which amalgamated in 1998.
Prior to being elected, she managed Nancy Allan Associates, which provided fund development and strategic planning services to small businesses and non-profit organizations. Her experience as a business owner and expertise in the non-profit sector gave her the opportunity to work with many community organizations.
Nancy was the Director of Development for the Canadian Diabetes Association and also served as the Executive Director of the Manitoba Motion Picture Industries Association. She was Chair of the Board of the Winnipeg International Children's Festival and received a Premier's Volunteer Service Award for her commitment to this organization. She also taught two Continuing Education courses at the University of Winnipeg on fund development.
In her community, Nancy has fostered relationships with daycares, tenant associations, seniors, youth, business organizations and the intersectoral social agencies. She has also implemented and supported a Drug Awareness Working Group, which works in the community to develop youth programming. Nancy is involved with environmental issues within the community and is proud of the work done by Save Our Seine and Bishop Grandin Greenway.
Nancy and her husband have two children.

MLA: IAN WISHART - PORTAGE LA PRAIRIE * MANITOBA PC CRITIC FOR FAMILY SERVICES AND PERSONS WITH A DISABILITY

Dear Lord, thank you for our MLA Ian Wishart and his constituency of Portage La Prairie. His family's roots there run very deep and so Ian understands the importance of a healthy agricultural community for the land and the people. May you give him wisdom as he works toward ensuring the health of the land and the health of the economy. Protect Ian and his family. May they see Your provision in their lives. In the Name of our Lord, Amen.

Ian and his wife Leslie live on a four generation family farm just north of the City of Portage la Prairie with their two children CJ and Rhae.

Ian has most recently finished his third term as president of Keystone Agricultural Producers, following four years as Vice-President of that organization. He has served on the Canadian Federation of Agriculture executive including terms as co-chair of Safety Nets and Environment. Ian also served 9 years on the Manitoba Crop Insurance Board, including 3 years as vice-chair and 3 years with the Manitoba Water Council.

He currently serves on the Portage Fair Board, a position he has maintained since returning to Portage la Prairie, is the secretary of the Delta Agricultural Conservation Coop, and is a director of the Centennial Community Club Inc, which administers arena operations to further support the athletic pursuits of Portage youth. In the past, he was President of the Manitoba Forage Council for 7 years, and participated in a trade mission to promote Manitoba products overseas.

Ian received the Agri Food Award of Excellence for the environmental work he has done on the Alternate Land Use Services (ALUS) program that introduced the principals of Environmental Goods & Services to Canadian Ag Policy.

MLA: HON MELANIE WIGHT - BURROWS * MINISTER OF CHILDREN AND YOUTH OPPORTUNITIES

Dear Lord, thank you for our MLA Hon Melanie Wight. Thank you for the heart you have given her to work with youth and children in need. May Melanie continue to be a strong voice for them and may she continue to see the positive changes she has seen in the past and see her desire for healthy communities be fulfilled. Bless Melanie and her family. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
 
“Manitoba is proof that a strong social conscience and strong economic growth can coexist. Continuing to work together to improve the lives of all families in Burrows is my number 1 priority. Let’s keep building a province that makes us proud.”

As Burrows new MLA, Melanie brings a wealth of experience to the Manitoba legislature. She has been working in the child welfare field since the 1990s, when she began managing an emergency foster home for boys in the North End of Winnipeg. For the past 16 years, she has worked for MacDonald Youth Services at a recovery unit for adolescent boys involved in crime. Her experiences have taught her first-hand how the right interventions can create positive change in the lives of crime-involved youth and improve the health of entire communities.

Melanie also has experience in the corporate world with a local commercial development firm where she worked as corporate asset manager for the continental region.

Melanie Wight was born in Melita and spent her childhood and adolescence on a farm just outside of Napinka. She moved to Winnipeg at age 18 and earned a BA from the University of Manitoba with a focus on psychology, sociology and criminology. She has also attended Red River Community College where she trained to become a certified youth care worker.

She looks forward to helping make Burrows an even better, more affordable place to live and raise a family.
More about Melanie

• Passionate about education and has taken a number of courses in areas like mental health First Aid, youth and suicide, cultural awareness, Aboriginal culture, and theatre;
• Has been a core trainer for youth care workers and recently become a trainer for the Red Cross RespectEd program, designed to prevent abuse in youth relationships;
• An experienced group facilitator and counsellor;
• An accomplished speaker who also performs periodically in theatrical productions
• Appointed to the board of directors for the Rehabilitation Centre for Children and acts as the board’s representative to the Children’s Rehabilitation Foundation;
• Vice-president of the Child and Youth Care Workers Association of Manitoba, and
• For 20 years, has worked and lived in Winnipeg’s North End, where she raised her daughter.

MLA: MATT WIEBE - CONCORDIA

Dear Lord, thank you for our MLA Matt Wiebe and for the opportunity you have given him to serve his constituency of Concordia. May Matt continue to promote resources to empower all Manitobans to succeed in the future. Give him clear solutions for providing safer communities within our province. Protect him and his family. May they continue to grow in favour with those they come in contact with. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

"Safe communities, more recreation opportunities, and the best schools in the country - that’s how we empower young Manitobans and prepare them for the future."

Matt Wiebe has a proven ability to bring people together. As a community organizer, Matt spearheaded several initiatives in his home neighbourhood of Elmwood around the issues of adult literacy training, support for new Canadians, neighbourhood beautification and crime and safety issues. The broad base of trust he built throughout the community was critical to his election as MLA for Concordia in 2010 and re-election in 2011.

With Matt as MLA, Concordia has continued to experience exciting growth, including the rebuilding of the East Elmwood Community Centre, the upgrading and repaving of Molson Street, and support for new housing and health care initiatives at Concordia Hospital.

Matt is dedicated to building a safer, healthier, greener northeast Winnipeg. He has served as a board member of the Elmwood Community Resource Centre as well as the volunteer chair of the Elmwood Safety Committee and the Communities That Care initiative. He’s proud to be part of a government that is focused on public safety.

More About Matt

• Holds a degree in Economics from the University of Manitoba and a Master Degree in Public Administration from the University of Winnipeg/Manitoba;
• Grew up in the East Kildonan neighbourhood of Valley Gardens;
• Has volunteered his time to organizations in and around Concordia, including the Keenleyside Outreach Centre, Elmwood/East Kildonan Residents Advisory Committee, Happy Days on Henderson/Take Pride Elmwood, Beautify Elmwood Community Committee and the River East Neighbourhood Network; and
• Matt lives in north Winnipeg with his wife Kaila and children Anna and Noah

MLA: ANDREW SWAN - MINTO

Dear Lord, thank you for our MLA Andrew Swan. May he recognize the race he runs will improve the lives of all Manitobans as he strives to make the streets of our province a safe place. Bless Andrew and his family and protect them. In the Name of our Lord, Amen.

"I’m working to make Manitoba a national beacon of public safety, where effective, proven prevention measures prevent crime, where police have the resources they need to fight crime, and where tough penalties give prosecutors the tools they need to keep criminals off our streets - and make no mistake, the streets are ours."

Andrew was first elected as an MLA in 2004 and was re-elected in 2007. He has served as the Minister of Competitiveness, Training and Trade, and in 2009 he was appointed the Minister of Justice and Manitoba’s Attorney General.

Andrew’s appointment as the Minister of Justice follows a long and active career in Manitoba’s Justice system. He graduated from the U of M Law School and practiced law at the firm of Thompson Dorfman Sweatman from 1990 until his election to the Legislature. While practicing law, he was also an active member of the Manitoba Bar Association, serving as chairperson of the Young Lawyers subsection. He also assisted as a lecturer and a seminar leader for the Law Society of Manitoba’s Bar Admission course.

More About Andrew

• An active community volunteer and an avid runner
• Former Trustee for Manitoba Marathon Foundation
• Served on the all-party Healthy Kids, Healthy Futures Task Force, which reported on ways to improve child nutrition, physical activity and injury prevention
• Lives in Winnipeg with his wife Tamsin and their two children, both of whom attend French Immersion schools.

MLA: HON. STAN STRUTHERS - DAUPHIN * MINISTER OF MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT, MINISTER CHARGED WITH THE ADMINISTRATION OF THE MANITOBA HYDRO ACT

Lord, we thank you for our MLA  Hon. Stan Struthers. His co-operation and hard work have paved the way to influence and favour in his respective areas of influence. Lord, we pray that you give Stan strength and wisdom as he carries out his responsibilities.  Thank you for Stan’s family and may they experience your grace and provision in every aspect of their lives.  In Jesus Name,  Amen.

“Manitoba is a better place to live, work and raise a family than it’s ever been – working together, we can keep building.”

• First appointed to cabinet in 2003
• First elected in 1995

Stan Struthers was first elected to the Manitoba Legislature in 1995 as the member for Dauphin and was re-elected as the MLA for Dauphin-Roblin in 1999, 2003, 2007 and again in 2011 as the MLA for Dauphin.

In his first term, he served as his party's Natural Resources Critic and Deputy Agriculture Critic. After the election of 1999, he served as the Legislative Assistant to the Minister of Health. In November 2003 he was appointed Minister of Conservation by Premier Gary Doer. Stan went on to become Manitoba's longest serving Minister of Conservation, until he was appointed Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives in November 2009. He then became the Minister of Finance in 2011. On October 18, 2013, Premier Greg Selinger appointed Stan the Minister of Municipal Government and Minister charged with administration of the Manitoba Hydro Act.

Stan graduated from Swan Valley Regional Secondary School in 1977, received his Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education degrees from Brandon University and his Masters of Education from the University of Manitoba. His teaching career began at Norway House First Nation and took him to teaching positions in the Parkland area, including a two-year term as principal of Rorketon Collegiate.

Stan's first interest in politics came to him at a very young age. With his father he watched the Liberal nomination race that elected Pierre Trudeau as leader—to his father's dismay. Stan soon came to share with his father a keen interest in politics. Debates on the issues of the day became a regular occurrence in the Struthers household.

Stan has enjoyed working with the people of his community over the years and cites the strength of that relationship on the twin pillars of co-operation and hard work. He has always marveled at the abundance of wisdom and knowledge to be found in the community and often cites the rich cultural fabric of the area which has produced a tradition of collaboration and success.

According to Stan, building on an agricultural base represents the future of the Parkland. The region's success, he says, depends on creating value-added jobs in agriculture and opportunities for our youth. Young people want to be part of building our community, one that will provide solid recreational opportunities and an equally strong and well-developed infrastructure.

Stan is proud of Dauphin for its recreation facilities which are second to none in promoting healthy living, like the Vermillion walking trail and the walking track at Credit Union Place which many people use on a daily basis. He believes the constituency of Dauphin is a great place to raise a family—especially when every community in the constituency is working hard to improve opportunities for young people.

Stan enjoys participating in many local fundraising events and is often asked to take part in community initiatives. He tries to accept every invitation that arrives in his office; for him, remaining active in the life of his community and representing the interests of his constituents are the most important things he can do as the area's MLA.

On June 4, 2005, the Dauphin-Roblin NDP Constituency Association recognized Stan with a 10-year anniversary celebration and on October 1st, 2010, for his 15 years as MLA with a celebration marking his election to office. Stan is honoured to have been elected five times and owes a debt of gratitude to his family and his constituents.

Stan and his wife Michelle live in Dauphin with their son Alex.

MLA: HEATHER STEFANSON - TUXEDO * MANITOBA PC CRITIC FOR JOBS AND THE ECONOMY, CITY OF WINNIPEG

Lord, we lift up to you our MLA Heather Stefanson. We thank you for blessing Heather with a caring heart and hope for the future.  We ask, Lord, that you would provide the strength and the courage to Heather as she represents the citizens of Manitoba. We pray for her family that they would experience Your blessing and protection. In Jesus Name. Amen.

Heather Stefanson was first elected to the Manitoba Legislature as the member for Tuxedo in a by-election in 2000. Since then, she has held a number of shadow cabinet portfolios including Advanced Education, Education, Training and Youth, Health, Water Stewardship, Conservation, Aboriginal and Northern Affairs, and Caucus Whip.

Heather has been successful in bringing forward a wide range of issues on behalf of her constituency. She believes in strong family values; a competitive economy that offers hope and opportunity for young Manitobans; a strong education system that prepares our youth to compete in the global economy; a health care system that puts patients first; a justice system that fosters safe communities and a clean environment where our children can safely swim in our lakes.

Before entering the Legislature as an MLA, Heather was active in politics as a volunteer. In addition, she volunteered for a number of charitable organizations and events in Winnipeg and in London where she went to the University of Western Ontario for her undergraduate degree in Political Science. Heather also had the opportunity to work in government at both the federal and provincial levels in the offices of the Prime Minister of Canada and the Minister of Education.

Above all else, Heather loves spending family time with husband Jason, her two children, Victoria (born November 2001), Tommy (born January 2004), and their Labrador Retriever, Thatcher.

MLA: DENNIS SMOOK - LA VERENDRYE * MANITOBA PC CRITIC FOR LABOUR, IMMIGRATION AND WORKER'S COMPENSATION BOARD

Lord, we thank you for our MLA Dennis Smook.  We know you have blessed him with a caring and concerned heart for people and their well being. We ask that you would continue to give Dennis favour as he mingles with his customers, his sports team players and his constituency of La Verendyre. Lord, may Dennis and his family sense your love and protection and your provision. In Jesus Name, Amen.

Dennis is a long time member of our riding and has been involved in numerous organizations which has given him the opportunity to meet with many residents.

Dennis has run a business in the community with the help of his wife Gwen for over 30 years. He is currently working for the Ste. Anne Co-op in Steinbach and was associated with Shell Canada across the Southeast for 29 years serving as a marketing associate. During those years he gained experience that will pay dividends as the MLA for La Verendrye.

Dennis has always been a community-minded person, and enjoys working with people. He has a strong track record of community service, including work with the Vita Curling Club, Vita Fire department, Minor Baseball, and Ducks Unlimited. I have also served as a trustee for the Boundary School Division.

Dennis and his wife Gwen chose to raise their four children in La Verendrye because they wanted them to grow in a kind and caring environment that would assist in there development as responsible adults.

Community Involvement:

- Vice President Vita Community Hall
- Treasurer District Wild Life
- School Trustee Boundary School Div #16
- Volunteer Fire Fighter
- President Vita Curling Club
- Chairman South East Ducks Unlimited
- Lions Club Member
- Town coordinator and rep for Carillon
- Local Baseball Youth Coach
- Local Hockey Youth Coach

PREMIER: HON. GREGORY F. SELINGER - MLA FOR ST. BONIFACE * PREMIER OF MANITOBA, PRESIDENT OF EXECUTIVE COUNCIL, MINISTER OF FEDERAL-PROVINCIAL RELATIONS, MINISTER RESPONSIBLE FOR THE SKILLS STRATEGY, MINISTER RESPONSIBLE FOR FRANCOPHONE AFFAIRS

Lord, we lift up to you our Premier Hon. Greg Selinger.  We pray that he would walk in integrity and that people would see his genuine character.  Even when he seems to be  in a dark valley and the opposition is mounting, Lord, we ask that you would protect Greg.  We thank you for his influence in government and may he continue to establish favour with his cabinet and the people of Manitoba. Lord, during this tumult, we pray for  your protection and provision for his family. In Jesus Name, Amen.

On October 19th, 2009, Greg Selinger became Manitoba’s 21st Premier.

Since then Greg has helped move Manitoba forward through a downturn in the global economy and a record-breaking flood, while building and improving our schools, hospitals and the services Manitoba families count on.

Greg was first elected as MLA for St. Boniface in 1999. He was re-elected in 2003, 2007 and again in 2011. He also serves as Minister of Federal-Provincial Relations, Minister responsible for the Skills Strategy, and as Minister responsible for Francophone Affairs.

Before becoming Premier, Greg was appointed by former Premier Gary Doer to the senior role of Minister of Finance where he balanced the province’s budget 10 years in a row.

Before being elected an MLA , Greg was a Winnipeg city councillor, university educator and worked with several community development organizations.

Greg earned a Bachelor of Social Work degree from the University of Manitoba, a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Queen’s University and a Ph.D from the London School of Economics.

Greg and his wife Claudette have two sons and live in St. Boniface.

MLA: ERIN SELBY - SOUTHDALE

Lord, we lift up to you our MLA Erin Shelby. Lord, in times of uncertainty and difficulty   may Erin see your unfailing love and wisdom.  We ask that you would protect her as she seeks to represent the residents of Manitoba in integrity. Lord, give her a clear and confident voice as she fulfils her responsibilities. We ask you, Lord, that you would protect and provide for her family.   In Jesus Name,  Amen.

“I care about what you care about—making life affordable, creating opportunities and making sure services are there when you need them.”

• First appointed to cabinet in 2011
• Appointed to the Treasury Board in 2012
• First elected in 2007

Erin was elected in 2007 and re-elected in 2011 to represent Southdale. In 2009, Premier Greg Selinger appointed Erin the Legislative Assistant to both the Minister of Family Services and Consumer Affairs and the Minister of Culture, Heritage, and Tourism. On March 28, 2011 Erin was appointed Minister of Advanced Education and Literacy by Premier Greg Selinger and then appointed Minister of Health on October 18, 2013.

Born in Winnipeg, Erin spent her childhood years in Pinawa. She attended high school in Ottawa and earned a B.A. in Communications from Concordia University in Montreal. Erin began her journalism career in Montreal, first as a reporter for a chain of bilingual community newspapers, and then as the weather anchor for Global Montreal. In 2002 Erin and her family moved back home to Manitoba.

Erin was an anchor and the first Consumerwatch reporter for CTV Winnipeg for four years before becoming host of Citytv’s Breakfast Television. Erin was a member of the Children's Hospital Foundation Board and the foundation's broadcast committee. Erin was also a member-at-large on the Parent Advisory Council at her children's school.

Through her work on television, Erin has volunteered with a number of local charities. In the spring of 2007, Erin stepped down from Citytv and the board of the Children’s Hospital to launch her political career.

Erin and her family live in Southdale.

MLA: RON SCHULER - ST. PAUL * MANITOBA PC CRITIC FOR TOURISM, CULTURE AND HERITAGE, SPORT, CONSUMER AFFAIRS, LIQUOR CONTROL ACT, LOTTERIES CORPORATION ACT

Lord, we thank you for Our MLA  Ron Schuler.  We pray you would continue to bless him in all of his endeavours.  Give him the wisdom to keep his governmental responsibilities, business, and family in a proper perspective.  We thank you for his family and may they always see your mighty hand of provision and protection. In Jesus Name, Amen.

First elected in 1999 as a MLA, Ron is first and foremost a family man. In addition to raising his kids and being active in his community and church, Ron founded a family-run catalogue sales business, which has been successful for over 15 years.

Ron has held numerous critic portfolios during his time in office including: Labour and Immigration, Energy, Science and Technology, Manitoba Hydro, the Civil Service Commission, Lotteries and Gaming, Education and Citizenship & Youth.

A University of Manitoba graduate with a degree in International Relations, Ron is also an independent businessperson, who has co-owned several successful businesses. The foundations for his successful business ventures were laid during his time as a junior executive at the T. Eaton Company.

Ron is an active community volunteer, giving his time to a number of worthy efforts including Big Brothers, Citizens on Patrol, Citizens Against Impaired Driving, the Kidney Foundation of Manitoba, Max Reinhardt Theatre Canada, the Folk Arts Council, the German Canadian Heritage Foundation and the Manitoba Inter-Cultural Council.

MLA: MOHINDER SARAN - THE MAPLES

Lord, we lift up to you our MLA Mohinder Saran. We pray you would give him your wisdom and strength. Lord, we thank you that you gave him the concern for all families. May Mohinder use his influence to bring about positive change to his constituency and to Manitoba. Lord, we ask that you would protect his family and may they experience your blessing.  In Jesus Name, Amen.

"My priority is to keep our community strong, diverse and moving forward – with quality services and programs that help make life easier and more affordable for local families"

Mohinder was already a well-known community activist when he was elected to represent the people of The Maples in 2007. He is the former Chief Power Engineer for Manitoba Infrastructure and Transportation at Red River College. Mohinder is also the former president of the Sikh Society of Manitoba, former director and vice-president of the India Association, and he helped establish the first Gurdwara in the province.

In 2009, Mohinder became a legislative assistant responsible for the Premier’s Office. He is also the Deputy Chairperson of the Committees of the Whole House. Throughout his time in government Mohinder has worked hard to represent all families living in The Maples.
More About Mohinder

• Born in a small village in the Punjab (India) and moved to Canada in 1970
• Served as President of the Maples NDP for 3 years
• Has lived in the Maples for the past thirty years with his wife Kuldip – they have three children

MLA: LEANNE ROWAT - RIDING MOUNTAIN * MANITOBA PC CRITIC FOR CHILDREN AND YOUTH OPPORTUNITIES

Lord, thank you for our MLA Leanne Rowat. We are blessed that she represents us in government. Lord, we ask that you would strengthen her as she balances her responsibilities and her ongoing participation with her constituency and, more importantly, her family. We pray that Leanne would have wisdom and insight as she fulfills her duties. Lord, may her family experience your protection and blessing all of the time. In Jesus Name, Amen

Leanne Rowat was elected to the Manitoba Legislature in June 2003, winning the seat vacated by long-time Progressive Conservative Cabinet Minister Harold Gilleshammer.
While Leanne’s tenure as a MLA has been relatively short, she is no stranger to the provincial politics or the legislature - having previously served in positions with Executive Council, Industry, Trade and Tourism, Education and Training and the Seniors' Directorate.

In addition to her government experience, Leanne has served on the Board of Directors for the South West Regional Health Authority and worked as the Economic Development Officer for the Souris-Glenwood Community Development Corporation.

Leanne’s community involvement has given her insight into her constituency’s needs, as well as a keen understanding of the challenges the province faces in creating an economic environment that fosters growth and opportunity for young Manitobans.

A resident of Souris, Leanne lives with her husband, Brad, and their two children. During legislative sessions, she splits her time between Winnipeg and her constituency – a challenge that requires her to balance the needs of her constituents with those of her family.

Away from politics, Leanne enjoys participating in outdoor activities such as golf and canoeing, but, like the majority of Canadian parents, most of her spare time is spent in arenas watching her daughter figure skate or her son play hockey.

And will Leanne’s children follow their mother’s political lead and pursue political careers of their own?

“My parents were politically active at both the municipal and provincial levels, so I was exposed to politics at a very early age and I credit the countless dinnertime conversations we had for shaping my political career,” says Leanne. “My children are being raised in a similar environment, so, I wouldn’t be surprise if they too became politically active.”

Hawaii Votes

Hawaii is having their state elections for Governor tomorrow.  It's a pivotal election for the state as they will choose to address their current issues and build for the future.  There is no PrayHawaii (yet....) but I promised some people I met last week that I would put this out to my friends and networks asking them to pray that God would use this election to accomplish HIS purposes for the great state of Hawaii.  So... I'm asking you to remember Hawaii in your prayers over the next 24 hours.  If you are looking for some direction, use the following:

God in Heaven, I pray today for the great state of Hawaii as they choose a new Governor and government.  I pray that You would use this election to accomplish Your purposes for the people of Hawaii and that those elected will be people that will be responsive to Your work and leading in their lives.  Direct this election in a miraculous way!  Amen!

MLA: JIM RONDEAU - ASSINIBOIA

Lord, we lift up to you our MLA Jim Rondeau. We thank you for his dedication and community awareness.  We ask you, Lord, to continue to give Jim insight as he promotes healthy living for all ages. We are honoured that he  puts a high value on our  military personal. Lord, keep Jim safe as he represents us in government. Lord, we pray for his family that they would be kept safe and strong. In Jesus Name, Amen.

"We succeed in Assiniboia because we all work together – creating the opportunities that make people want to stay here, work here and raise their families here."

• First elected in 1999
• Served in cabinet from 2003 to 2013
• Shapes his career around dedication, community awareness, and action

Awards and Recognitions

• First-time winner of the Literacy Partners Manitoba Lifetime Service award
• Queen's Golden Jubilee Award 2002
• Optimist of the Year Award, Assiniboia Optimist Club 2002
• Manitoba Peacekeeper Recognition Award 2002
• Conference Board of Canada Workplace Award 1998
• Numerous Best Coach Awards 1990-1999

Jim Rondeau was elected the MLA for Assiniboia in the 1999, 2003, 2007 and 2011 Manitoba elections. In November, 2003 he was appointed the new Minister of Healthy Living within the Department of Health and was also given responsibility for Seniors and Healthy Child Manitoba. A year later he became the Minister of Industry, Economic Development and Mines. In September 2006 he was appointed the Minister of Science, Technology, Energy and Mines. In November 2009, he was appointed Minister of Healthy Living, Citizenship and Youth by Premier Greg Selinger. He is also the Minister Responsible for Seniors, Healthy Child Manitoba, Mental Health and Recreation. He was re-appointed to Premier Greg Selinger’s cabinet as the Minister of Healthy Living, Seniors and Consumer Affairs from January 2012 until October 2013.

Jim has served on the Legislative Review Committee, the task force on the Graduated Drivers Licensing, the Manitoba Round Tables on Disability, and numerous pre-budget consultations. He was also instrumental in the introduction and passage of The Canadian Forces Personnel Act, which improved the rights and benefits of military personnel moving into Manitoba.

Prior to entering politics, Jim had an extensive career in education. He has taught at schools in Norway House and Cranberry Portage, and was an instructor at the University of Winnipeg. He later became the Adult/Work Education Coordinator for the Frontier School Division, helping establish 18 adult learning centres and libraries throughout the province and developing an award-winning school-to-work transition program for young people from northern Manitoba.

Jim has always been a willing and committed community volunteer. He is a proud member of the Assiniboia Optimist Club, and regularly works with community clubs, parent councils, seniors groups, military organizations and other community initiatives.

Jim's career is one of dedication, community awareness, and action. He reflects these values in his passionate and committed service to his constituents and to all Manitobans.