Hon. James Allum MLA - Fort Garry - Riverview

God, please give wisdom and guidance to the decisions being made by hon. James Allum, for the people of Fort Gary/Riverview.

Minister of Justice and Attorney General
Minister responsible for Constitutional Affairs
Minister charged with the administration of the Manitoba Public Insurance Corporation Act

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.

http://www.yourmanitoba.ca/caucus2010/mla?constituency=Fort%20Garry%20-%20Riverview

Nancy Allan MLA - St. Vital

God, be with Nancy Allen. Help her to have discretion in the things that are used in the motion picture industry, that they will be family oriented and pleasing to you.

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.

http://todaysndp.ca/mla/nancy-allan

Rob Altemeyer MLA - Wolseley

God, we ask that you guide Rob Altemeyer in everything that he represents for the wolseley area. Give him enough hours in his day to accomplish the things he needs to do.

BIOGRAPHY

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.

http://todaysndp.ca/mla/rob-altemeyer

Hon. Ron Kotyshyn MLA - Swan River

Swan River Manitoba is a unique district Lord, which you know best in all its needs. We pray that you enable Ron Kostyshyn to meet your expectations for the Swan River community, both great and small. Help him to prioritize with all sensitivity to what you have called him to do in his district and protect him and his family from the evil one, and all his dealings with staff and officials. We pray this in your Son’s Holy name, Jesus Christ. Amen. 

Minister of agriculture, food and rural development
Ron was elected as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Swan River on October 4, 2011. He was appointed Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives in 2012 and re-appointed to the same department under its new name, the Department of Agriculture, Food and Rural Development, in 2013. Ron also served as Reeve of the RM of Mossey River and on council for two decades.
For the past 26 years, Ron has worked on the family farm consisting of a 200 cow/calf operation with 2560 acres. Born and raised in rural Manitoba, Ron knows that a strong rural economy is key to Manitoba’s success.
He is looking forward to working hard for families and for farmers in the Swan River constituency, and ensuring that Manitobans continue to benefit from a strong government that values the importance of agriculture, health care, education, jobs and infrastructure.

http://todaysndp.ca/mla/ron-kostyshyn

Bidhu Jha MLA - Radisson

Dear God you have raised up Bidhu Jha to meet the special needs of the people in the district of Radisson Manitoba. Equip Bidhu with power and strength to persist with the tasks to meet his constituents’ needs at all levels and to do so in a godly fashion to honour your name. Equip his family, friends, colleagues and officials to support him in the expected decisions and tasks ahead. We pray this in Christ’s name. Amen. 

Bidhu Jha, a Winnipeg resident since 1970, was elected as Radisson's NDP MLA in 2003, 2007 and 2011. He has been legislative assistant to the premier and minister of Energy, Science and Technology and was recently appointed as Manitoba's special envoy for international trade. Bidhu participates in several legislative committees on such issues as public accounts and finances, Crown corporations, social services, justice, and community economic development.

He has also received the prestigious Asia Pacific Award of Entrepreneurship from the Asper School of Business (University of Manitoba) and an honourable distinguished community service award by ICHHA, an organization set up to serve humanity. Bidhu is a published poet and writer of short stories and articles. A tireless worker in uniting Canada's diverse communities, Bidhu is a strong voice for equal rights for all.

http://todaysndp.ca/mla/bidhu-jha

Hon. Kerri Irvin-Ross MLA - Fort Richmond

Dear God, I pray for Kerri Irvin-Ross and the work she does with the families in our community. We recognize all the work she does in our schools and daycare centres and with seniors groups. Whether she's working with the young or the elderly, we ask that you give her wisdom and knowledge to know what tasks she needs to prioritize. Direct her in how she helps care for our children and youth with implementing programs at different levels. We ask that you guide her decisions, especially as she works with at-risk youth and crime prevention. Thank you for her heart for those in need and the time she gives to those you love. Please have the right people come alongside her and bless her as she accomplishes the things that are important to you in our society. Thank you for the people you have set in the paths of her care and help them to feel taken care of and loved.
In Jesus name.

Minister of Family Services
Minister of Housing and Community Development
Minister responsible for Persons with Disabilities
Minister responsible for the Status of Women

"My job is to help people in our community imagine the possibilities – to keep looking ahead and finding new ways of building a better future for Manitobans."

BIOGRAPHY

First elected as MLA for Fort Garry in 2003, she has served as Minister of Healthy Living, Minister responsible for Healthy Child Manitoba and Seniors, Minister of Housing and Community Development and was appointed Minister of Family Services by Premier Greg Selinger on October 18, 2013.

Raised in a small farming community in southern Saskatchewan, Kerri and her family moved to Winnipeg over 15 years ago. They established roots in Winnipeg and become a part of many community and school organizations. Kerri accepted a position at the Winnipeg Child Guidance Clinic and through her work as a school social worker she grew increasingly aware of the importance of providing positive opportunities in order to create and maintain healthy communities.

As a community builder Kerri has been recognized for her role in developing crime prevention initiatives and spearheading efforts to improve community recreation facilities. She regularly works with community clubs, parent councils, child care centres, schools, seniors groups such as the Fort Garry Seniors Resource Council and Pembina Active Living 55+, as well as other community initiatives. Kerri is also a strong supporter of groups such as the Fort Garry Historical Society and the Fort Garry Community Network. Her constituency office has become a meeting place for many such groups.

During her three years as Minister of Healthy Living Kerri was responsible for introducing Healthy Child Legislation, implementing Age-Friendly Manitoba, establishing nutrition guidelines for schools, designing new suicide prevention initiatives, expanding the diabetes prevention programs in the North, introducing a new eating disorders program, providing children with low-cost bike helmets, and building on our anti-smoking initiatives.
As Minister of Housing and Community Development, Kerri prioritized a positive experience for tenants, which has led to customer service training for staff, improved security services, and a bed bug remediation strategy for Manitoba Housing properties. She has worked to meet housing needs in Manitoba through a variety of initiatives, which has resulted in hundreds of new units of affordable housing tailored to families, seniors, students and people with disabilities.

A strong supporter of community economic development, she has championed the department’s partnership with Warm Up Winnipeg/BUILD and other community based employment training programs which has resulted in reduced energy and water costs for Manitoba Housing Properties and job experience for hundreds of worker with barriers to employment. She believes in the power of Co-op Development for Manitoba, and champions grassroots empowerment and neighbourhood revitalization through Neighbourhoods Alive!.
Kerri enjoys working with government departments, community groups, and citizens to support vibrant, healthy communities across Manitoba.

http://todaysndp.ca/mla/kerri-irvin-ross

Jennifer Howard MLA - Fort Rouge

Dear God, you know the Fort Rouge, Winnipeg, Manitoba district more than all of us, all the social, educational, business, and infrastructure needs that are before its community that need addressing, and done so in a godly fashion. We pray that especially open Jennifer Haward’s eyes to your purposes and how to address all the needs for your glory, and that she be fully equipped to persevere in what is right and good, that you name be glorified throughout the district. We pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Jennifer was elected MLA for Fort Rouge in 2007, later serving as the Vice-Chairperson of the Public Accounts Committee. In November 2009, she was appointed the Minister of Labour and Immigration and Minister responsible for Persons with Disabilities, Workers Compensation Board and the Status of Women.

Jennifer was re-elected on October 4, 2011 and was appointed Minister of Family Services and Labour. On October 18, 2013, Premier Greg Selinger appointed Jennifer the Minister of Finance, as well as Minister responsible for the Civil Service Commission, Minister charged with the administration of the Crown Corporations Public Review and Accountability Act and Minister responsible for Persons with Disabilities.
Jennifer Howard is a well-known and credible advocate who has worked in the community and government on issues such as poverty, health care, neighbourhood safety and equality for women.

Prior to her appointment, Jennifer held a number of public positions, including:

• Executive Director of the Women’s Health Clinic
• Chairperson of the Manitoba NDP Status of Women Committee
• Positions with the Prairie Women’s Health Centre of Excellence and the Manitoba Action Committee on the Status of Women
• Policy advisor to Premier Gary Doer on health care issues
• Founding Member, South Osborne Neighbourhood Safety Association

Jennifer is a life-long Manitoban—born and raised in Brandon where she graduated from Brandon University. She moved to Winnipeg in 1998.

Jennifer has served on the Boards of numerous organizations, including the College of Registered Nurses of Manitoba, the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives (Manitoba), the Rainbow Resource Centre and the University of Winnipeg’s Board of Regents.
Jennifer was named a Woman of Distinction in 1999 by the Brandon YWCA. She has also received a Community Builder Award from LAMBDA, the gay and lesbian business and professional organization.

Jennifer is a keen reader, theatre-goer and singer with a community choir - the Rainbow Harmony Project.

http://todaysndp.ca/mla/jennifer-howard

Reg Helwer MLA - Brandon West

God almighty you know the district of Brandon West in Manitoba, its needs and challenges. We pray that you supernaturally intervene in this district and rise up Reg Helwer to accomplish your will to address the people’s needs in his role of influence as a civil official and district decision maker. We pray you protect and strengthen his family, friends and co-workers and all the officials and government workers he associates with for harmony and productivity in meeting all the needs before them. We pray this in Christ’s name.  

Reg’s vision is for a government that gets tough on crime, controls spending, makes investments in education and creates opportunities for young people.  Reg  is very committed to his community and has spent many hours volunteering and serving in the following roles:

- 30 years coaching community sports
- YMCA Campaign Co-Chair
- Past President, Brandon Chamber of Commerce
- Past Vice Chair, Brandon University Board of Governors
- Past President, Brandon University Students’ Union

Reg has a very strong commitment to Business and Education:

- Past President, Canadian Association of Agri Retailers               
- Partner, Shur Gro Farm Services   
- M.Sc. Agricultural Economics, Purdue University              
- B.A. Political Science, Brandon University

Reg Helwer’s values are – family, hard work and integrity.  Reg & Anysley have been married for twenty-five plus years and have four children – Jessica, Andrew, Carolyn and Adam.

Reg was first elected to the Manitoba Legislature as the member for Brandon West in the Provincial Election October 4, 2011. In his first session as an MLA he was critic for Manitoba Hydro, MPI and active member of Public Accounts.

With the newly elected Leader Brian Pallister, Reg will be the critic for Justice and Attorney General; Constitutional Affairs & MPI.  He will also be the Chair for the Public Accounts Committee.

http://www.reghelwer.com/

Cliff Graydon MLA - Emerson

Dear Lord and God, we pray that you are with Cliff, his family and colleagues. We pray that you protect them all and give them discernment and insight to understand fully their community needs. Equip him to accomplish the tasks before them that are required. We pray in Jesus name. 

Cliff Graydon was born and raised in Arnaud and has spent the past 30 years farming grain and purebred Charolais cattle. Cliff has held various critic portfolios during his time in office including: MPI; Liquor Control; Lotteries; Gaming and Agriculture as well as Entrepreneurship Training and Trade.

He was a founding member of the Manitoba Cattle Producers Association and served on its board of directors. He has also served as a member of the Stuartburn Piney Agricultural Development Association and the Prairies East Sustainable Agricultural Initiative.

Cliff and his wife, Rose Ellen, live in the Woodmore area and have two children, Amy and Warren, a daughter-in-law Venessa and three lovely grandchildren, Bailey, Colby and Reneé.

http://www.cliffgraydon.ca/

Kelvin Goertzen MLA - Steinbach

Lord, Steinbach as a Christian community has a long history in your son’s name in recognizing and adhering to your will. We pray that any shortcomings in this regard be thwarted wherever the enemy has a stronghold and that your satisfaction will reach across community. We pray that you be with Kelvin Goertze and his family. We pray that your will be done here in Christ’s name. Amen.

Born and raised in Steinbach, Kelvin has deep roots in South Eastern Manitoba. Whether helping out on his grandfather's farm in the Pansy/Grunthal area or volunteering at the Mennonite Museum in Steinbach, Kelvin's parents taught him the value of hard work.

Following his graduation from the Steinbach Regional Secondary School in 1987, Kelvin enrolled in the University of Manitoba, ultimately earning his Honours degree in Commerce and a Bachelor's degree in Law. During this time he paid his way through University working evenings and weekends at what was then Penner Foods.

Early on, Kelvin realized the importance of community involvement in building a successful and compassionate province. He has served as Vice-President of Southeast Helping Hands Food Bank and of the Steinbach Arts Council and has been a Director for several other organizations. Kelvin is currently a member of the Southeast Rotary Club which raises money for worthwhile local causes. In 2007, Kelvin received the HOPE (Helping Other People Everywhere) medal from the Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario Lions Foundation in recognition of his community volunteer activities.

In addition to working in a major financial institution and with a property development company, Kelvin worked for several years as the Executive Assistant to former Steinbach MLA's Albert Driedger and Jim Penner. He also served as the Special Assistant to the Deputy Minister of Culture, Heritage and Citizenship, and was the first Legislative Intern to be elected to the Manitoba Legislature.

In 2003, Kelvin became the youngest MLA ever elected in the Steinbach Constituency. In 2007, Kelvin was re-elected MLA for the Steinbach Constituency achieving 83% of the vote, the highest in the history of the riding.

Since his election to the Manitoba Legislature, he has served in several senior positions for the PC Caucus including Health Critic and Education Critic. Currently, Kelvin is the Justice Critic and House Leader for the Progressive Conservative Caucus.

In 2008, Kelvin graduated from the Bowhay Institute for Legislative Leadership Development (BILLD) which is conducted in Madison Wisconsin for emerging leaders in the midwest part of Canada and the United States.

Kelvin enjoys writing and has published several articles including in the Asper Review of International Business and Trade Law. In 2006 he published a book on the life of former Steinbach MLA, Jim Penner, entitled "A Life Well Lived."

In 1997, Kelvin married Kim Hiebert from New Bothwell and have one son Malachi who was born September 30, 2006. They have been members of Southland Community Church in Steinbach for the past 13 years.

http://www.kelvingoertzen.com/

Jon Gerrad MLA - River Heights

God you know the needs of the River Heights district in Winnipeg. We know you have the power and means to influence Jon Gerrad in applying the truth of your word to those needs. We pray that your will be done in his life in Christ’s name. Amen.

BIOGRAPHY

Jon Gerrard’s diverse career offers a multitude of strengths to his leadership position. As a scientist and researcher, medicine has been a dominant thread in his career. Gerrard’s lifelong passion for politics encouraged a career change where yet again, he has daily opportunities  to make a difference.

Jon was born in 1947. Dr. Gerrard obtained a BA in Economics from the University of Saskatchewan (1967), MD from McGill University, Montreal (1971), and Ph.D. from the University of Minnesota. In 1976, Dr. Gerrard received his Certificate in Pediatrics from the American Academy of Pediatrics. He became a fellow of the Royal College of Canada (pediatrics) in 1982.

Gerrard is an internationally recognized researcher and physician. He has a rich publication history that explores medicine, science and the environment. From 1985 to 1992, Gerrard led a multidisciplinary team in the care and treatment of Manitoba children with cancer as head of Pediatric Hematology/Oncology at Children’s Hospital in Winnipeg.

Jon Gerrard’s political career began when he was elected as the Member of Parliament for Portage-Interlake. While on Parliament Hill his positions as Secretary of State for Science and Technology (1993 – 1997) and Western Economic Diversification (1996 – 1997) provided him with opportunities to promote research, technology, economic growth, job opportunities and a better future for Canadians. Dr. Gerrard made the switch to provincial politics in September of 1999, when he was elected MLA for River Heights.
Gerrard has been a strong voice for the Liberal perspective in the legislature. His unique perspective, creative problem solving skills, down to business approach and extraordinary work ethic make him an exceptional and responsive MLA.

A diverse background including science and technology, health care and education, economics and the environment is an invaluable resource to bring to the office of the leader. Jon’s understanding and experience of Manitoba’s rural and urban life and knowledge of politics and government management in cabinet and federal arenas set him apart.

http://jongerrardmla.ca/

Dave Graudreau MLA - St. Norbert

God we pray that Dave Graudreau is able to see and be sensitive to his St. Norbert constituents and meet them according to your word and truth. In spite of himself, we pray that he will abide in the truth because of your power in how he applies himself to all facets of his work in the community. We pray that you will protect him, his family, and co-workers from the evil one. We pray this in your son’s name, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Dave was first elected MLA in October 2011 and is building on the progress made in St. Norbert under former NDP MLA Marilyn Brick. With his energy and community connections, Gaudreau is  providing strong representation for the families of St. Norbert as your newly elected NDP MLA in Premier Greg Selinger’s government.

A journeyman welder by trade, Dave completed his apprenticeship program at Keewatin Community College in The Pas (now University College of the North) where he graduated as apprentice of the year. He most recently worked for the City of Winnipeg and completed a program in industrial supervision at Red River College.

Dave and has been active in the labour movement and has been an active volunteer who has organized fundraising events for Osborne House and W.I.S.H., an organization in St. Norbert that provides housing and supports to women and children affected by domestic violence.

As a parent, Dave knows how important a high-quality education is to children and their families in St. Norbert.  Dave is a passionate defender of our health care system and believes we must keep recruiting and training doctors and nurses and continue to invest in our health facilities for the future.  He also recently started working on a campaign to improve Canada's pension system to ensure seniors can retire with dignity rather than live in poverty.

http://todaysndp.ca/mla/dave-gaudreau

Cameron Friesen MLA - Morden-Winkler

Lord as Cameron wakes up everyday with the thought of what to do for, improve and make work in his constituency, may Your thoughts towards his family be the same and greater. May programs implemented benefit the people of the Morden and Winkler in Jesus name. Amen.

After being elected as MLA for Morden—Winkler, Cameron assumed the role of Critic for Education.  Under the new PC Leader Brian Pallister, Cameron moves to the role of Health Critic. 

Cameron was previously Executive Assistant to the Member of Parliament for Portage—Lisgar, working with local stakeholders to enhance and grow the Morden—Winkler region. He was liaison to local government, business and industry, and resolved issues for employees and employers, new Canadians, seniors, community organizations and farmers.

Cameron’s twelve-year teaching career included positions in Winnipeg, Steinbach and Morden school divisions. He built solid programs through a commitment to fundamentals like measurable outcomes and meaningful assessment of learners, gaining the respect of students, peers and the community, and earning a reputation as a hardworking educator and advocate for music education in the public school system.

Cameron is dedicated to life-long learning; he holds degrees from CMBC, University of British Columbia and University of Manitoba and has completed courses in the management and administration program at University of Winnipeg.

Cameron was born and raised in Morden. He and Shelley have been married for 20 years. Their love of the area and commitment to community and family brought them back home ten years ago, where they are now proudly raising their three children.

www.cameronfriesen.ca

Ralph Eichler MLA - Lakeside

Lord, we pray for Ralph Eichler as he represents the Lakeside constituency. We pray your wisdom into the different decision processes he faces. Please protect his family and  wrap them in your love. Amen

Ralph was elected as a Member of the Legislative Assembly in June, 2003.

He is a long time resident of the Lakeside area with strong ties to the community and local businesses.

Ralph believes that building a healthy and sustainable rural economy is essential. He foresees future prosperity in Lakeside with a thriving agricultural economy, expanding tourist industry and improved infrastructure.

For eight years, Ralph served as the Administrator of the Interlake School Division and remains committed to building opportunities for youth. He believes that with strong leadership, accountability and vision, we will see community growth and stability in Manitoba.

Ralph’s dedication to the people of the Lakeside constituency is instantly recognizable by his continual involvement in community service. He volunteers his time to many community organizations in various capacities.

He was an active member of a variety of organizations including the Teulon and Area Lions Club and the Stonewall Royal Canadian Legion Branch 52. Ralph and his family are active members of their local church.

In the past, Ralph served as Board Director of the Prairie Implements Manufacturers’ Association (PIMA), Board Chairman of Neicom Developments, an original Director of the Teulon Green Acres Park Board, President of the Interlake Riding Club, supporter of the Handivan Committee, Treasurer of the Teulon Kinsmen Club, member of the Interlake Community Foundation Board and Treasurer of the Teulon Golf and Country Club.

Ralph understands the struggles of livestock producers, having raised both purebred Simmentals and a commercial herd. He is the past owner/operator of Prairie Farm and Ranch Supply, a major manufacturer and importer/exporter of livestock handling equipment. While a business owner, he successfully initiated the global marketing of an innovative Manitoba agricultural invention called “The Stockdoctor”. He currently owns Ray’s Auction Service.

Ralph was elected, by his peers, on January 16, 2010 as a Director to the State Agriculture Rural Leaders (SARL) Board representing Canada, USA and Mexico. Ralph attends, on a regular basis, the Legislative Agriculture Chairs Summit. Here, he works together with senior US state agriculture legislators, Canadian provincial Ministers, and elected officials to discuss and develop agriculture policy and to exchange best practices.

Ralph and his wife Gail have two sons, a daughter and son-in-law, and three grandchildren.

http://www.ralpheichler.com/

Myrna Dreidger MLA - Charleswood

Father, guide Hon. Myrna Dreidger as she reflects on how to improve her community while you bless her family. Help her find ways to ensure her constituency is well taken care of. In Jesus name.

Myrna’s path in life is rooted in her strong desire to make a difference. Having served as a nurse, a leader in the area of missing and exploited children, and as an elected Member of the Legislative Assembly in Manitoba, Myrna’s many roles have reflected this calling to help make her community a better place.

Myrna is currently the Health Critic of the PC Party of Manitoba as well as the Critic for the Status of Women. She has also held a number of diverse critic roles in the past including that of Deputy Leader, Critic for Finance, Child & Family Services, and Education. During her time in government, she was the Legislative Assistant to the Minister of Health.

In 2011, Myrna was elected Chair of the Canadian Region of the Commonwealth Women Parliamentarians (CWP) by her peers from across the country. In September, 2012, Myrna was also elected the Vice-Chair CWP International. CWP works for better representation of women in legislatures throughout Canada and the Commonwealth.

Before entering public life, Myrna had a successful and rewarding career as a registered nurse with experience in general duty, nursing education, medical and nursing research, patient education, and nursing administration. Her nursing experience has led her to have a passionate voice for a better health care system.

As President and Executive Director of Child Find Manitoba, Myrna was a leading advocate for the protection of children. Her fierce determination and leadership were the driving force behind the early development of Child Find Manitoba, which is now recognized across Canada as a central player in child protection issues.

Myrna’s professional achievements have earned her recognition on the “Canadian Who’s Who” list as well as the “Who’s Who of Canadian Women”. For service to her community, Myrna was presented the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal.

Not afraid to take on a challenge, Myrna is a strong voice for health, education, justice, and economic issues, and is a champion of youth, seniors’ and women’s issues. Her persistence, as well as her strong belief in the power and ability of women, led to the establishment of the Nellie McClung Foundation and the memorial on the grounds of the Manitoba Legislature.

Myrna and her husband, Hal live in Charleswood with their two sons, Rhys and Curtis. She enjoys cooking, gardening, photography, and the occasional round of golf.

http://www.myrnadriedger.com/

Hon. Greg Dewar MLA - Greg Dewar

Dear Lord, please be with Hon. Greg Dewar as he works with the various public Crown Corporations and the accountability Act. May he find favour with workers that he oversees in Jesus name.

Minister of finance
Minister responsible for the civil service
Minister charged with the administration of the Crown Corporations Public Review and Accountability Act

Greg Dewar brings a wide range of experience to the table. He was born in Selkirk and raised in Cloverdale, in a farming family. He has worked on the family farm, as a steelworker and as a businessman in Selkirk. He is the grandson of Ben Massey, a past mayor of Selkirk. Greg has a BA in history.

Greg was elected as the MLA for the Selkirk in 1990 and was re-elected in 1995, 1999, 2003 and 2007. He has served as the government whip and has been a member of the caucus executive, the House Strategy committee and the Legislative Assembly Management Committee. In November 2009 Premier Selinger appointed him the Legislative Assistant to the Minister of Finance. He is also Vice-Chair of the Public Accounts Committee.

http://todaysndp.ca/mla/greg-dewar

Cliff Cullen MLA - Spruce Woods

Gracious God, May Hon. Cliff Cullen experience your peace and love as he pours himself into his work for the good of his constituency and family. May Your light shine into any decision making that may come across as confusing. 

Cliff is the Caucus representative for the Manitoba Legislative Internship Program.

Cliff Cullen was born and raised on a grain and cattle farm near Wawanesa and graduated from the University of Manitoba with a diploma in agriculture. He was first elected MLA for Spruce Woods in 2004 and was re-elected in 2007 and 2011. 

He has been involved in his community for many years, serving as captain of the volunteer fire department and volunteering on various community boards such as the Glenboro Community Development Corporation, Community Round Table, Glenboro Curling Club and the Glenboro United Church.

Cliff is an ardent activist for the environment. He has held the position of president of the Manitoba Weed Supervisors Association and the provincial manager of the Association for a Clean Rural Environment.

Cliff and his wife Marilyn, a Grade 5 & 6 teacher at the Glenboro School, have three sons: Braydon, Addison and Colby. 

www.cliffcullen.ca