Friday, February 27, 2015

MLA: COREY TOCHOR - SASKATOON EASTVIEW

Dear Lord, we pray today for MLA Corey Tochor and the work that he does for the people of Saskatchewan. We pray that You would gift him with a voice full of wisdom and credibility. Help him to effectively meet the needs of constituents that approach him, as well as those who may not even be aware that he is there to help. Bless he and Danielle with health and vitality throughout the years. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Corey Tochor was first elected to the Saskatchewan Legislature in the 2011 provincial election for the Saskatoon Eastview constituency. 
Prior to entering politics, Corey was a local Saskatoon entrepreneur who owned and operated Health Conveyance Inc., a communications company that provides electronic messaging in health facilities across the province. 

Corey has been very active in his local community as past vice-president of the Kinsmen Club of Saskatoon and has volunteered on the corporate board for Telemiracle 33. He has also served as treasurer of the Kinsmen Activity Place House, which is a community center supporting Saskatoon’s inner city. 

Corey was born and raised in Esterhazy, Saskatchewan. He currently resides in Saskatoon with his wife Danielle.

Thursday, February 26, 2015

MLA: HONOURABLE CHRISTINE TELL - REGINA WASCANA PLAINS - MINISTER RESPONSIBLE FOR CORRECTIONS AND POLICING

Lord Jesus, thank You for the Honourable Christine Tell. We pray that You would grant her an incredible capacity to balance work life and personal life challenges easily. Thank You also for her strength and drive and we pray that she will continue to use her strengths to affect positive changes throughout all of Saskatchewan. Bless her and her family with health, deep relationships and courage of character. Amen.

Christine was first elected to the legislature as the MLA for Regina Wascana Plains in the 2007 provincial election and was re-elected in 2011. She has served as Minister of Government Services, Minister Responsible for Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority, and Minister of Tourism, Parks, Culture and Sport. Ms. Tell is currently the Minister Responsible for Corrections and Policing. 
Born and raised in Regina, Christine graduated from Miller High School before receiving a psychiatric nursing diploma from Wascana Institute (SIAST). After working as a psychiatric nurse for a time, she entered and graduated from the Saskatchewan Police College. She joined the Saskatoon police service and worked there for three years before joining the Regina City Police. Christine rose to the rank of sergeant and was in charge of central operations prior to taking a leave of absence to run as a candidate for a seat in the provincial legislature.  

Christine served in the Regina Police Association and the Saskatchewan Federation of Police Officers for a number of years during her police career. She was elected as president of the Regina Police Association and was the first woman in Canada to lead a major police association. 

Community involvement has been an important role in Christine's life. She served on the Police Pension Administrative Board; Canadian Pension & Benefits Institute, Saskatchewan council; Regina Airport Authority - Community Consultative Committee; Regina Business & Professional Women's Organization; Regina Women's Network; and, Women of the Dawn, Aboriginal Awards selection committee. 

Christine is married and has two sons.

Wednesday, February 25, 2015

MLA: HON. LYLE STEWART - THUNDER CREEK - MINISTER OF AGRICULTURE AND MINISTER RESPONSIBLE FOR SASKATCHEWAN CROP INSURANCE CORPORATION

Dear God, we thank You for the Honourable Lyle Stewart and everything that he has done for the people of Saskatchewan. We ask that You grant him an extra portion of energy and passion this year as he continues his service to Saskatchewan and the people of Thunder Creek. Bless he and his family with deep and authentic spiritual lives. In the name of Jesus, Amen. 

Lyle Stewart was born and raised near Pense, Saskatchewan where he continues to farm and ranch with his wife Linda and son Lee.

Lyle was one of the first members in the newly formed Saskatchewan Party and was elected to the Legislative Assembly as the MLA for Thunder Creek in 1999.

He was re-elected in 2003, 2007 and 2011. During his two terms in opposition, Lyle served as the interim leader of the party, as well as the critic for Agriculture, Economic Development and Industry and Resources.

After the Saskatchewan Party formed the government in 2007, Lyle served as the Minister for Enterprise and Innovation, the chair of the Legislature's Standing Committee on the Economy, a member of the caucus' standing policy committee on the economy, and the province's Treasury Board.

On May 25, 2012 Premier Brad Wall appointed Lyle as the Minister of Agriculture and Minister Responsible for Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation.

Lyle and his wife Linda have threeDear Lord. Thank you for the Honourable Lyle Stewart and everything that he has done for the people of Saskatchewan. We ask that you grant him an extra portion of energy and passion this year as he continues his service to Saskatchewan and the people of Thunder Creek. Bless he and his family with deep and authentic spiritual lives. Amen.  grown children and five grandchildren.

Tuesday, February 24, 2015

MLA: WARREN STEINLEY - REGINA WALSH ACRES

Dear Lord, we ask that You consider MLA Warren Steinley today. Would You bless him this year with wisdom akin to Solomon. May he be able to see the challenges of all sides of the issues and may he be able to courageously choose the best solutions even if they are the toughest. Bless he and his wife Larissa and their son Nickson with a great year together full of health and enjoyment. In Jesus' name we ask this. Amen. 

Warren Steinley was first elected in the constituency of Regina Walsh Acres in the 2011 provincial election.

Warren grew up on a dairy farm near Rush Lake where he did everything from milking cows to marketing breeding stock at exhibitions across Western Canada.

Warren then graduated with an Honours Degree in Political Science from the University of Regina where he was a member of the Cougars Track and Field team. He also co-founded the local Saskatchewan Party Campus Club.

After university, Warren combined his farm background and his commitment to public service by spending a summer as an intern in the Minister of Agriculture's office in Ottawa. He then worked within the Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification's office during the fall of 2008.

Warren worked in various government roles with the latest one being Director of Research in the Caucus office prior to being elected on November 7, 2011.

Warren, his wife Larissa and their son, Nickson reside in Regina.

Monday, February 23, 2015

MLA: CATHY SPROULE - SASKATOON NUTANA

Lord God, thank You for MLA: Cathy Sproule. We ask that You bless her this year with wisdom and energy to effectively fill her government roles. Help her to represent her constituency well, both in speaking for them and in demonstrating a high degree of character and poise. May she accomplish those things that You have laid on her heart for her constituents. Bless her family with health and success. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Cathy Sproule was elected to represent the constituency of Saskatoon Nutana in 2011.

Born and raised on a farm in southern Saskatchewan, Cathy Sproule worked as a lawyer for the federal government as an aboriginal law specialist prior to being elected.

Cathy co-founded the Ness Creek Music Festival in 1991, and the Northern Lights Bluegrass and Old Tyme Music Festival in 2006. She organizes music workshops, dances, and concerts around the province to keep a part of Saskatchewan's history alive. She is an accomplished fiddle player, and the house accompanist for the Saskatoon Fiddle Orchestra.

Cathy is bilingual and holds bachelor degrees in Education, Law, and Arts from the University of Saskatchewan. She co-owns Ness Core Ventures, a small business that operates the Nesslin Lake Campgrounds and the Ness Creek Site.

 Cathy has two sons.

Friday, February 20, 2015

MLA: LAURA ROSS - REGINA QU'APPELLE VALLEY

Dear Lord, we thank You for Laura Ross. We pray that You would truly bless her with a keen sense of wisdom and tenacity in the coming months. Help her to speak for the people who do not have a voice. May she continually model the very best in leadership and humanity.  Bless her and Terry with health and happiness throughout all of 2015. In Your precious name Jesus, we pray. Amen.

Laura was first elected as an MLA for Regina Qu’Appelle Valley constituency in 2007 and was re-elected in 2011. She was appointed Legislative Secretary to the Minister of Health, responsible for retention and recruitment of nurses, long-term care and the reduction of surgical wait times. She was also Minister of Government Services.

Laura currently serves on the caucus’ policy committee on human services and the legislature’s Standing Committee on Human Services, is a member of the board of directors of the Crown Investments Corporation of Saskatchewan and is a member of the creative industries cabinet committee.

Laura is a founding member of the Saskatchewan Chapter of Equal Voice and serves as a role model and mentor to young women interested in professional and political lives. Laura also was instrumental in the development of Regina’s first Habitat for Humanity Women’s Build project in 2011 and she sat on a committee to spearhead the Habitat for Humanity Mountie House.

Laura Ross was born and raised on the family farm near Yorkton and attended the University of Regina where she obtained a B.A. in geography and sociology. For more than twenty years Laura was a licensed realtor in Regina specializing in residential properties. Prior to her success as a realtor, she operated her own catering company and farmed with her husband Terry.

Laura and her husband currently reside in Regina. They have one son. 

Thursday, February 19, 2015

MLA: JIM REITER - ROSETOWN-ELROSE - MINISTER OF GOVERNMENT RELATIONS, MINISTER RESPONSIBLE FOR FIRST NATIONS, METIS AND NORTHERN AFFAIRS AND MINSITER RESPONSIBLE FOR SASKENERGY

Heavenly Father,  We pray for the Honourable Jim Reiter and ask You to bless him in all of his governmental work this year. Give him wisdom, grace, tenacity, and flexibility. Help him to navigate the current challenges with integrity and character in every decision, both professional and personal. Bless him also with a spiritual life that encourages and refreshes him daily. In Jesus' name we pray these things. Amen.

Jim Reiter was first elected as the MLA for Rosetown-Elrose in the 2007 provincial election and was re-elected in 2011. 

Professionally, Jim has extensive experience in municipal governance. He was the long-time administrator for the Rural Municipalities of Marriott and Pleasant Valley. He has served as director, Vice-President, and President of the Rural Municipal Administrators' Association (RMAA), as well as executive director.


Among his educational accomplishments is a Senior Certificate in Local Government Administration from the University of Regina. He also served six years on the U of R Senate. Jim has served his community as a Justice of the Peace and marriage commissioner.

Jim served as the Legislative Secretary to the Minister of Education with specific responsibility for the Property Tax Initiative. His report formed the basis for the largest education property tax cut in a single year in the province's history. Jim served as the Minister of Highways and Infrastructure and the Minister Responsible for Saskatchewan Transportation Company.

Jim currently serves as Minister of Government Relations, Minister Responsible for First Nations, Métis and Northern Affairs, and Minister Responsible for SaskEnergy.

Wednesday, February 18, 2015

MLA: KEVIN PHILLIPS - MELFORT

Dear Lord, thank You for MLA Kevin Phillips. We ask that You would continue to grant him compassion for the people that do not have a voice in society. Help him to see their needs and to spearhead initiatives for them. May he also receive renewed encouragement from his colleagues in the legislature this year as he works on our behalf. Bless he and his wife April and their family with health and prosperity. Thank You, Jesus. Amen.

Kevin Phillips was first elected in the 2011 provincial election for the constituency of Melfort.

Kevin has lived in his constituency for most of his life. He worked in business and advertising, including being a partner with the Melfort Journal for over 25 years and sitting on the board of the Canadian Community Newspaper Association and the Saskatchewan Weekly Newspapers Association. Most recently he was a partner in an automotive dealership. Kevin served for five years as mayor of Melfort during which time he lead a period of tremendous growth in residential and commercial areas of the city of Melfort. He was also vice-chair of the Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association SUMAssure Reciprocal Insurance company.

Kevin has been very involved in the Melfort community. He is a past president and life member of the Kinsmen club of Melfort and previously served as a board member, finance chairman and chairman of the board of the then Melfort school division. 

Kevin and his wife April together have four children and seven grandchildren. 

Kevin is a member of the legislature’s Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice.


Tuesday, February 17, 2015

MLA: ROGER PARENT - SASKATOON MEEWASIN

Dear Lord, thank You for MLA Roger Parent and his work for the people of Saskatchewan. We ask that he would have increasing opportunities as a public servant to encourage and care. May he be known for his authenticity and sincerity. Bless he and his wife Sheila with truly meaningful spiritual lives. In Jesus' name, we pray! Amen.

Roger Parent was first elected to the Saskatchewan Legislature in the 2011 provincial election for the Saskatoon Meewasin constituency.

Prior to entering politics, Roger was a business consultant working with a variety of organizations developing aboriginal businesses around the province. Roger spent many years prior to aboriginal business development in project management and as technical advisor in equipment and building services. He is a graduate of SIAST in mechanical engineering technology and a graduate from the University of Saskatchewan in Business Administration. Roger also graduated from Purchasing Management Association of Canada at the University of Saskatchewan.

He has been involved with several initiatives within the community, including Canadian institute of Management, Purchasing Management Association of Canada, SREDA Aboriginal Economic Development committee, the Saskatoon Homelessness Initiative partnership, and most recently as a board member for the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation. Provincially Roger has been on the board of directors for the Saskatchewan Economic Development Association, Council for the Advancement of Native Development Officers, Action Saskatchewan Summit committee, Northern Apprenticeship committee and the Northern Labour Market committee.

Roger and his wife Sheila have lived most of their lives in Saskatoon, in the Meewasin constituency.

Monday, February 16, 2015

MLA: HONOURABLE GREG OTTENBREIT - YORKTON - MINISTER RESPONSIBLE FOR RURAL AND REMOTE HEALTH

Almighty God, we bring the Honourable Greg Ottenbeit to You today and ask that You would continue to bless and keep him throughout this new year. Give him an uncanny insight and wisdom with which to lead in his ministerial roles. Help him to see the needs of the people of Saskatchewan and to work well with those under him to design solutions and to make the pathways strait for people in need. Amen.

Greg was first elected as the MLA for Yorkton in the 2007 provincial election and was re-elected in 2011. Born in Regina, Greg has lived in Yorkton for most of his life, and has always been involved in his community. Prior to being elected, Greg owned and operated Ottenbreit Waste Systems, a private environmental and waste disposal business.

Greg has been married to his high school sweetheart, Leone, for over 26 years, and has two daughters, Katelin and Rayanne. In 1998, the couple started Brayden Ottenbreit Close Cuts for Cancer, an event that encourages volunteers to shave their head to raise money for cancer research and local initiatives. The charity, which has raised almost $700,000, is named in honour of their son Brayden who lost his battle with cancer in 2000 at age 5.

Greg and Leone received the Saskatchewan Centennial Medal in 2005 for their community involvement and volunteerism. Greg was recognized in 2012 with the Hal Rogers Fellow Award, the highest honour presented by the Kinsmen of Canada.

Greg has served as the Legislative Secretary to the Minister of Social Services, Community Based Organizations initiative and as Legislative Secretary to the Minister of Environment, Recycling. In June 2010, he was appointed as Legislative Secretary to the Premier for Vulnerable Youth. Greg has served as Chair of the caucus' standing policy committee on human services and the Chair of the legislature's Standing Committee on Human Services. He has served as Deputy Government Whip and Government Whip. On September 24, 2014, he was appointed as the Minister Responsible for Rural and Remote Health.

Friday, February 13, 2015

MLA: ROB NORRIS - SASKATOON GREYSTONE

Dear Lord, thank You for MLA Rob Norris. We pray that You give him wisdom and focus in his government work. May he embody the best characteristics of a public servant. Help he and his family to pursue a deep spiritual walk. Bless them with health and fulfillment throughout the year. We praise You, Lord Jesus. Amen.

Rob Norris was born in Edmonton, Alberta, raised in Red Deer, and completed post-secondary education in both Alberta and Saskatchewan. He moved to Saskatchewan in 1994.

From 1997 to 1999, he served as a Legislative Assistant within the Canadian House of Commons; his primary duties related to foreign policy. In February 1999, Rob started with University of Saskatchewan International. Between 2004 and 2007, Rob served as the co-ordinator of Global Relations at the U of S and was responsible for helping to shape and sustain strategic partnerships with public and private stakeholders.

Rob has an M.A. (Alberta, with courses completed in Saskatchewan) and a B.A. with distinction (Lethbridge) in political science. As a student at the U of S, he participated in Saskatchewan consultations regarding the Calgary Declaration. Rob has published several pieces in the popular press and academic journals.

Rob was first elected to the legislature for Saskatoon Greystone in the 2007 provincial election and was re-elected in 2011. Rob has served as Minister of Advanced Education, Employment and Immigration, Minister Responsible for Saskatchewan Power Corporation, and Minister Responsible for Innovation, among other responsibilities. He served as Legislative Secretary for First Nations and Metis Engagement and Legislative Secretary for International Trade and Education.

Currently, Rob is the vice-chair of the Public Sector Bargaining committee and participates on the Cabinet committee on Children and Youth. He was recently the vice-chair of the Aboriginal Youth Task Force.

Rob is married to Dr. Martha Smith-Norris, a history professor at the University of Saskatchewan. Their daughter, Jacqueline, is in high school. 

Thursday, February 12, 2015

MLA: JOHN NILSON - REGINA LAKEVIEW

Father, we pray for MLA John Nilson and ask that You bless him with health and professional capacity. Continue to give him the strength of character and responsibility to effectively fill his roles in government. We ask that John’s spiritual life would be rich and encouraging for him. May he find an amazing, supernatural peace in the midst of life's challenges. Thank You Jesus for answering our prayers. Amen.

John T. Nilson was born in Saskatoon and raised in western Canada. John obtained his education at Pacific Lutheran University, Tacoma, Washington, University of Oslo, Norway, and St. Olaf College in Minnesota, prior to obtaining his law degree from the University of British Columbia in 1977. He was admitted to the Bar in British Columbia in 1978 and in Saskatchewan in 1979. He practiced law and mediation with MacPherson, Leslie & Tyerman from 1978 until he was elected as MLA for the Regina Lakeview Constituency in June, 1995 and re-elected in 1999, 2003, 2007, and 2011.

John was first appointed to cabinet as Minister of Justice and Attorney General in November, 1995 and has also served in several portfolios including Crown Investments Corporation, Health, and Environment. In 2007 he served as opposition critic for Intergovernmental Affairs and served as interim Leader of the Official Opposition from 2011 to March 9, 2013.

He and his wife, Linda, have two daughters, Ingrid and Solveig. They live in Regina Lakeview, near the Legislature, and farm north of Parkbeg.

Wednesday, February 11, 2015

MLA: HONOURABLE DON MORGAN - SASKATOON SOUTHEAST - MINISTER OF LABOUR RELATIONS AND WORKPLACE SAFETY AND MINISTER OF EDUCATION

Dear Lord, thank You for the Honourable Don Morgan. Thank You for his commitment to the people of Saskatchewan and to his constituency of Saskatoon Southeast. May You bless him with the energy and passion to lead the ministries that he oversees effectively. Bless he and his wife Sandy with health and spiritual growth throughout 2015. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Don Morgan was born, raised and educated in Saskatoon. He graduated from the College of Law, University of Saskatchewan, in 1978 and practiced law in Saskatoon from 1979 to 1988. Between 1988 and 1992 he was chairman and CEO of the Saskatchewan Legal Aid Commission. He was appointed as Queen's Counsel in 1990. Don also served on the Saskatoon Public School Board from 1999 to 2003 including a term as board Chair. He practiced law in Saskatoon from 1992 until 2007.
Don was first elected to the Legislative Assembly in November 2003 representing the constituency of Saskatoon Southeast. He was re-elected in the 2007 and 2011 provincial elections. During his term in opposition, Don served as critic for Justice, deputy critic for First Nations and Métis Relations, Opposition Deputy House Leader, and sat on the legislature’s Standing Committee on Private Bills. After the 2007 election he served as Minister of Justice until the spring of 2012, and in 2010 the portfolio of Minister of Labour Relations and Workplace Safety was added to his responsibilities.

In the cabinet shuffle of May 2012 Don retained his position of Minister of Labour Relations and Workplace Safety and also became Minister of Advanced Education.

In the cabinet shuffle of September 2013 Don relinquished his portfolio of Advanced Education, retained his position of Minister of Labour Relations and Workplace Safety and added the position of Minister of Education.

Don and his wife, Sandy, are long-time residents in the Lakeridge area of Saskatoon.Agency.

Tuesday, February 10, 2015

MLA: HONOURABLE SCOTT MOE - ROSTHERN-SHELLBROOK - MINISTER OF THE ENVIRONMENT AND MINISTER RESPONSIBLE FOR SASKWATER AND WATER SECURITY

Lord,  We ask You to bless and empower the Honourable Scott Moe. Give him wisdom and compassion in his ministerial roles. Help him to continue to grow in his leadership capacities. We ask that You would also guide him into a deepening spiritual journey that is meaningful and refreshing. Grant him times of refreshing with those closest to him. Amen. 

Scott Moe was first elected to the Saskatchewan Legislature in the 2011 provincial election for the Rosthern-Shellbrook constituency.

Scott was born and raised in the constituency on a grain farm between Shellbrook and Parkside. Currently, Scott and his wife Krista live in Shellbrook with their two children. As a family, they enjoy many outdoor activities in what he describes as the irreplaceable landscape of Saskatchewan.

Scott was educated at the University of Saskatchewan where he received his Bachelor of Science in Agriculture. Scott has been active in the community through his work with the Economic Development Corporation, the Shellbrook and District Health Services Project Inc., and the Shellbrook and District Physician Recruitment committee. He has also volunteered his time to work with local hockey and softball associations.

Scott served as a member of the legislature’s Standing Committee of Crown and Central Agencies and was Deputy Chair of the legislature’s Standing Committee on Public Accounts.

On June 5, 2014 he was appointed Minister of Environment and Minister Responsible for SaskWater and the Water Security 

Monday, February 9, 2015

MLA: WARREN MICHELSON - MOOSE JAW NORTH

God, thank You for MLA Warren Michelson from Moose Jaw North. We pray that he would have an excellent year serving his constituents and working within the legislature. We ask that his capacity for leadership would increase and develop. Grant him opportunities and challenges to make a difference in many people’s lives and continue to bless him with character and courage. Thank You Lord Jesus. Amen.

Warren Michelson was first elected to represent the constituency of Moose Jaw North in 2007, and re-elected in 2011.

He has served as Chair of the legislature’s Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice, a member of the legislature’s Standing Committee on the Economy, as well as Deputy Chair of the legislature’s Standing Committee on Public Accounts.

In June 2014 he was appointed the Legislative Secretary to the Minister of the Economy in regards to manufacturing. His responsibilities include co-chairing the Saskatchewan Construction Panel made up of professional organizations and government representatives in support of a stable and healthy Saskatchewan construction industry.

Prior to being elected, Warren worked in the communication industry of television, radio, and newspaper in a variety of management positions in several Saskatchewan communities. Warren served on the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce for 13 years, serving as provincial president in 2004-05. From 2000 to 2006, Warren held a seat on the Senate of the University of Regina.

Warren's commitments to community volunteer service include past member of the Moose Jaw Hospital Foundation Board, and past director of the Moose Jaw Chamber of Commerce. He is the co-founder and past chairperson of the Moose Jaw Business Network. He also takes an active part in the lay ministries of his church.

His many accomplishments and leadership capabilities were recognized in Saskatchewan Business magazine being acknowledged as one of "Saskatchewan's Men of Influence" in March of 2004.

Warren and his wife Debbie have four adult children and six grandchildren, all living in Saskatchewan.

Friday, February 6, 2015

MLA: PAUL MERRIMAN - SASKATOON SUTHERLAND

Dear Lord, we bring MLA Paul Merriman before You and ask that You bless him with a great year in the legislature. Give him many opportunities to serve his constituents and to make a positive difference. Continue to grant him the wisdom and courage to choose the ethical path. May he constantly be guided by the Holy Spirit and may he and his family experience a growing spiritual legacy. In your name, Jesus, Amen.

Paul Merriman was first elected to the Saskatchewan Legislature in the 2011 provincial election for the Saskatoon Sutherland constituency.

Born and raised in Toronto, Paul moved to Saskatchewan with his family in 1988. His father, Ted Merriman, served as the MLA for Saskatoon Northwest for one term from 2003 to 2007. His father’s involvement in politics piqued his interest in politics.

Paul has lived and worked in Saskatoon since 1994. Recently, he was the executive director of the Saskatoon Food Bank and Learning Centre. During his tenure with the food bank, Paul has worked diligently to increase funding and decrease costs. Prior to his employment with the food bank, he was employed with SaskEnergy for eight years setting up a province-wide salvage operation of used material that generated corporate savings for the Crown Corporation in excess of $8 million. He has also operated two small businesses.

Paul and his wife, Leane Durand, a small business owner herself, have four children.

Thursday, February 5, 2015

MLA: HONOURABLE DON MCMORRIS - MINISTER OF CROWN INVESTMENTS AND MINISTER RESPONSIBLE FOR SASKATCHEWAN GOVERNMENT INSURANCE, SASKATCHEWAN LIQUOR AND GAMING AUTHORITY, PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION AND THE LEAN INITIATIVE

Lord Jesus, Thank You for the Honourable Don McMorris. We pray that You will be a big part of his life this year. We ask that he would have a growing and rewarding spiritual life. We also pray that You would bless him abundantly in his many and varied ministerial roles. May You also help him to balance the challenges of public life with the blessings of family and friends. In Your precious name, we ask this!  Amen.

Don McMorris was raised in southern Saskatchewan’s Indian-Head Milestone constituency and maintains strong connections to the communities and people of the area. He graduated from Milestone High School, later worked with the Prairie View School Division, and managed the family farm in the Lewvan area.

Throughout the years, Don has always focused on serving the people of our province. After many years with the Saskatchewan Safety Council, he was elected to the Legislature as the MLA of Indian Head-Milestone in 1999. He was re-elected in 2003, 2007, and 2011 provincial election.

Don has served as Minister of Health and Minister of Highways and Infrastructure. In June 2014, he was appointed Minister of Crown Investments and Minister Responsible for Saskatchewan Government Insurance, Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority, Public Service Commission, and the Lean Initiative.

Don remains very active in the community along with his wife Cindy and their two sons.

Wednesday, February 4, 2015

MLA: WARREN MCCALL - REGINA ELPHINSTONE-CENTRE

Dear Lord, we bring MLA Warren McCall to You and ask that You bless him throughout the year and into the future. Give him continuous opportunities to serve the people of Regina Elphinstone-Centre. We also ask that You protect and enrich his spiritual life. Help him to call on You in both the challenging times and also in the times of happiness. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Warren McCall is proud to call north central Regina home. It is the neighbourhood where he was born and raised, and is the largest community in Regina Elphinstone-Centre. 

First elected in a February 2001 by-election, McCall has subsequently been returned to the Legislative Assembly by the people of Elphinstone-Centre in the 2003, 2007, and 2011 general elections. He is proud of the fact that he has been voted “Best Regina MLA” seven years in a row by the readers of Regina’s Prairie Dog Newsmagazine. 

McCall is the Opposition House Leader and is the official opposition critic for Advanced Education, SaskTel, Central Services, the Lean Initiative, Saskatchewan Gaming Corporation, and the Provincial Capital Commission. Aussi, il est le Président de la section de la Saskatchewan de l’Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie (APF). 

McCall holds a Bachelor of Arts in Canadian history from the University of Regina. He volunteers for a number of organizations and community events, including Habitat for Humanity, Regina Folk Festival, Cathedral Village Arts Festival, Albert Library Community Council, Canadian Blood Service, CIBC Run for the Cure, and the North Central Community Association. 

Tuesday, February 3, 2015

MLA: RUSS MARCHUK - REGINA DOUGLAS PARK

Lord God, we pray that You will bless MLA Russ Marchuk this year and throughout his life with a deep spiritual experience. Help him to continually discover the divine image in every person he works with. Help him in his legislative work to be focused and effective at whatever he decides is best for the people of his constituency and the province of Saskatchewan. Amen.
Russ Marchuk was first elected to the Saskatchewan Legislature in the 2011 provincial election for the constituency of Regina Douglas Park.
From his beginnings in Regina Douglas Park, Russ went on to a thirty-year career with the Regina public schools in a variety of capacities, including: teacher, vice-principal and principal at a number of Regina elementary and secondary schools; school board trustee; and, vice-chair and Chair of the Regina Public School Board. Russ also served as an education consultant with First Nations’ schools in the Treaty 4 area, a position he held from 2001 until 2011.
Russ is a strong community leader and passionate about his community, his city and his province. Russ has acted as the logistics coordinator for the Office of the Provincial Secretary for six royal visits and a number of national conferences. In 2005 Russ was presented the Royal Victorian Medal (silver) by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II for service to Her Majesty and members of the royal family. He has also served as a public representative on two committees with the Saskatchewan Registered Nurses Association.
He currently serves on the cabinet committee on Saskatchewan Child & Family Agenda, the Intergovernmental Affairs & Justice caucus policy committee, as well as the legislatures Standing Committee on Intergovernmental Affairs and Justice. He is also the Legislative Secretary to the Minister of Education.
Russ and his wife Karen have four children. He enjoys golfing, kite skiing and cooking.

Monday, February 2, 2015

MLA: GENE MAKOWSKY - REGINA DEWDNEY

Dear Lord, thank You for MLA Gene Makowsky and his commitment to Saskatchewan. We ask that you continue to give him strength of character and passion in his various roles. Help him to continually keep the people of Saskatchewan in clear focus. Bless he and his family with a renewed spiritual walk and a deeping commitment to each other. In Jesus' name, we ask this. Amen.

Gene was first elected to the Legislature in the 2011 provincial election. He currently sits on the legislature’s Standing Committee on Crown and Central Agencies and the caucus’ standing committee on crown and central agencies. In May 2012, Gene was appointed Deputy Whip.

Gene graduated from the University of Saskatchewan in 1996 where he received his bachelor’s degree in education with distinction. He is best known for his 17 years playing offensive line with the Saskatchewan Roughriders. He was named the CFL’s Most Outstanding Lineman twice, a CFL All-Star five times and helped lead the Riders to a Grey Cup in 2007.

Known as a quiet leader, Gene is committed to giving back to the community. In the off-season he worked as a substitute teacher in the Regina Public School System and always attends as many charity and community events as possible. In 2008, Gene was hired by the provincial government to work with minor football to help aspiring players at the grassroots level in Saskatchewan excel on the football field.

Gene and his wife Tami call Regina home with their three boys, Nicholas, Ryan and Blake.