Thank you Alberta
Thank you Alberta
Vote PC on April 23, 2012: Tides have changed. We really are a new PC Party under the leadership of Alison Redford
I became a PC party member in 2007 when my friend and mentor, Teresa Woo-Paw, decided to run for nomination in the riding of Calgary-Mackay where we both live. As most of my friends and acquaintances might remember, it was a shock to everyone that someone like myself, extremely socially progressive, would consider even voting Conservative let alone volunteering for them. But I found the experience very rewarding. Like many Albertans, I wasn’t very happy with some of the ‘old boys club’ type of politics that ran our province, and I honestly wasn’t sure whether I would actively participate in the 2012 election.
But, then Alison Redford put her name forward to run for the party. And like many socially progressive Albertans, I was ecstatic about the breath of fresh air that she brought to the potential leadership of the province.
Over the course of the past year it has been my honour and privilege to volunteer on Alison Redford’s campaign. First, as she put her bid in to lead the Progressive Conservative Party of Alberta, and then, after successfully winning, and becoming Premier of Alberta, to volunteer to do what I am most passionate about; engaging communities in dialogue.
With this, came the opportunity over the past month to attend a number of events and watch Alison and some of the other PC candidates in action. And through this experience I learned a lot about who I am, what I value for myself and my family, and where I’d like to see our province be in the future.
| 
|  | Chinese newspaper
Photo courtesy: Oriental Weekly.com
| Filipino Community for Alison Redford | Gurdhwara eating in Lungar
Photo courtesy: Bobby Randhawa
|
There are far more articulate and qualified people than myself that have given you a million reasons to NOT vote for the Wildrose Party. So I’m not going to get into that again. I’ll just direct you to some of the more recent articles that I found informative, realistic and unbiased.
10 Reasons I am not Voting Wildrose
Remington: Why this Conservative is no Dani boy
And here are some articles I really liked about why voting PC is the best choice.
Ten reasons why I am voting for Alison Redford’s Progressive Conservatives | Edmonton Journal
Calgary business leaders have a message for voters: choose PC
Now I could probably never be construed as a ‘Dani boy’ as Mr. Remington speaks to in his article, and really, that article doesn’t apply to most of my network either. So for the fairly socially progressive folks like myself out there, here is why plain, ordinary, Albertan me, thinks you should:
a. Take the time to vote on April 23, 2012
b. Vote PC
 |  |  | Arts Vote – Minister Bhullar & Mark Hopkins
Photo courtesy: Rehana Bharwani
| Lighting Lamp for Sri Lankan New Year
Photo courtesy: Ronald Munaweera
| First Nations Dance at Multicultural Gala |
I am proud ofbeing Canadian and very proud of being an Albertan, born and raised in Calgary. I am happy that my family chose to immigrate to Calgary in the 1960s from India and Pakistan. I think it’s hilarious that my Uncle Husain chose Calgary because he was a geoligist and a polo player. He believed Alberta had the best oil & gas industry in Canada, and Calgary had, by far, the best polo grounds in the Nation (both are true, of course). Mostly, I am proud of how inclusive and welcoming Alberta has been to my loved ones, and how many wonderful opportunities Alberta has provided my cousins, my brother and I.
I support Alison Redford to be the Premier of Alberta for the same reasons my father and I chose to volunteer for her during the PC leadership race (YouTube videos: English http://youtu.be/MeOfqyJ6ZZQ & Urdu http://youtu.be/NUIbCMVQOCY) and I spoke to it again a few days ago (YouTube video: http://youtu.be/9F7kam0gfwI).
Simply put, Alison has integrity. No one ever doubts how smart she is. She could have chosen any career in the world, but she chose to be a human rights lawyer, assisting people around the world in ways I could only dream of. She worked alongside Nelson Mandela and has taken assignments in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, Namibia, Uganda, Zimbabwe and Afghanistan. Quite frankly, going to those countries, under those conditions frightens me, and Alison’s bravery in chosing to go there leaves me in awe.
When Alison Redford speaks about human rights, it’s from a perspective of someone who has lived the dilemmas and seen the strife around the world. She understands how important it is to maintain an inclusive and welcoming Alberta because it is the Alberta she believes in. How do I know this? Because I’ve had many conversations with her about it. When we go to events together, like the ones in the photos I’ve uploaded, it’s not for a photo op. Alison actually enjoys meeting new people and learning about other cultures. And that’s extremely important to me. Alberta deserves a leader that can not only represent Alberta, but can lead Alberta moving forward as we continue to build respectful relationships with the rest of Canada, and the world. Alison Redford is the best choice for Premier of Alberta. I hope you will agree and vote PC on April 23, 2012.
|  | 
| | Multicultural Gala – Guest of Honour | Teresa Woo-Paw at Ethno-cultural Forum | Irish Dance at Multicultural Gala |
My Speech about PC Candidate for Calgary-Hawkwood, Jason Luan
Gabe is a grade 6 student in the constituency of Calgary-Hawkwood. He prepared this speech for his class - it speaks for itself. The PC Party is investing in the future of Alberta, Gabe’s future.
Thanks for sharing this with us Gabe!
My Speech about PC Candidate for Calgary-Hawkwood, Jason Luan
By Gabe Hartzler
My group and I are here to share about our candidate Jason Luan for the Progressive Conservatives. Today we are going to share about Jason Luan and tell you why you should consider voting Jason Luan for Calgary-Hawk wood MLA.
Jason Luan has lived in Calgary Northwest for over 20 years; this means he has seen the changes in our community. Jason has worked in the public sector for 21 years and most recently as a city planner. He wants every family to feel safe in the community of Hawkwood. Jason Luan is the Vice President of the Dalhousie Community Association. Jason is a parent volunteer at King George School. Jason wants citizens to participate in democracy. He encourages citizens to participate in building a society and making a better future for all citizens.
Jason Luan and the Progressive Conservatives are promising 50 new schools and 70 schools to be refurbished. This would cost 2.4 billion dollars. The Progressive Conservatives are also promising better financial assistance for post-secondary students.
Health Care is Jason’s main priority. The PC’s are promising fast-track emergency rooms. This would reduce wait times for Albertans. The PC’s will also develop innovation pilot projects to deliver real-time, virtual or distance-delivery health care through existing technologies such as Alberta super net.
Now if you’re worried about our environment, which we all should be, The PC’s will encourage greater use of water conservation, recycling, and reuse technologies, such as “grey water” collection from showers for use in toilets, by providing incentives or mandating changes in residential and commercial development. They will also design an incentive and reward system to encourage action on energy efficiency, including a review of provincial micro-generation regulations to allow more homeowner, farmers and small businesses to participate.
Just because people are old, doesn’t mean we shouldn’t care about them. The PC’s will introduce a new program to enable seniors having difficulty with their property taxes to defer these costs until they sell their home, supporting seniors to live in their own homes for longer. They will also build 1,000 new continuing care spaces per year for the next 5 years, and develop continuing care centres that offer a range of options, enabling couples to continue living together even if their care needs differ and remain in the same facility even when their care needs change. They will also implement an elder abuse strategy to protect our most vulnerable citizens.
Quality of life is very important. The PC party wants to invest the money that Danielle Smith will give away to citizens, known as Dani-Bucks. The PC’s will use this money to invest in a better economy and a better future for all Albertans. The PC party has a 5 year plan to eliminate child poverty, and a ten year plan to reduce poverty. The PC’s also promise no new taxes and no service cuts.
These are some things that the Progressive conservatives will do to make a better future for Alberta and for the people of Alberta. They will also use Dani-Bucks for investing in a better economy and a better future.
Recap of Day 28 on the Campaign Trail
Premier Redford started the day out in Edmonton at a breakfast rally with candidates from all over the city. Thomas Lukaszuk introduced candidates from all over the city
Premier Redford ended the day in Calgary where it was a packed house for her and Calgary candidates
An Open Letter from Calgary Business Leaders
Dear Fellow Calgarians,
Regrettably the 2012 Provincial election has become quite
heated, divisive and confusing. Many are saying that Albertans made a mistake
by electing the Progressive Conservative Party as Alberta’s Government for the
past 41 years and that it is time for a change. We should not take our
prosperity and success for granted. Change for the mere sake of change is likely
to erode Alberta’s continued stability and good fortune; and electing an
untested and evolving political party is likely not the best change. One thing
is certain, as Albertans we are united in our desire to do the best for our
Province and its citizens.
Alberta is positioned for greatness. How did we get here?
Not just by luck – yes we are blessed with our resource base, but it has been
careful planning, vision and the ability to adapt both in business and in government
that has positioned us. We have benefited from good, stable and predictable government
that shared in our vision and provided the framework that was necessary to
foster the competitive advantage that Alberta enjoys. The Alberta Government’s ability
to innovate and change with social and economic influences over the years has
been the key to making Alberta a leader in the global economy.
It is important that Albertans pause and think about the
issues that should be fundamental to all of us, namely: (i) protection of the
entrepreneurial spirit and can-do culture that has been a cornerstone of our Province's
commerce; (ii) improving our tolerant and inclusive society so that we can continue
to attract and retain talented and committed individuals and families who wish
to be part of the wonder that is Alberta; and (iii) continuing to be a leading
and model jurisdiction within Canada and throughout the world. Now is not the time
to build barriers around Alberta which isolate us from the rest of Canada and
the world.
It is our belief that the best means of continuing the
prosperity and the growth of Alberta and its citizens is by supporting the PC
Party of Alberta under the leadership of Premier Alison Redford. The PC Party has
and will continue to change and adapt as a consequence of Premier Redford's leadership,
the issues raised during the election, and the many voices that have been heard
by those individuals prepared to do public service. Now, more than ever, we need
stable, reliable and experienced government committed to fiscal discipline in
improving our health care and education systems through multi-year, result based
budgeting and enhancing our business environment. Premier Alison Redford and
the PC Party of Alberta is best able to provide just that.
We are fortunate to live in Alberta, we are the envy of many
other Canadians and others around the world. On Monday, April 23rd we urge you
to carefully weigh the issues. Please be an informed voter. Thank you.
Respectfully,
John Aldred George Brookman Heather Culbert Lesley Conway
Bonnie DuPont
Jim Gray Brian Felesky Kevin Fleury Chen Fong Chris Fong
Wayne Henuset Dr. Kabir Jivraj Tim Kitchen Sam Kolias Lorne
Paperny
Bill Sembo Yves Trepanier Peter Valentine
Recap of Day 26 on the Campaign Trail
Premier Redford visited Kiwanis Place in Edmonton-Centre with candidate Akash Khokhar.
Premier Redford and Akash Khokhar attended the #YEG Down Town Lunch Break later in the day
A packed hall for Premier Redford and Ray Danyluk up in St. Paul
Recap of Day 25 on the Campaign Trail
Premier Redford took a tour of a newly constructed seniors residence in Edmonton-Beverly-Clareview with Tony Vandermeer.
Premier Redford went to Edmonton-Manning and met with supporters and Peter Sandhu.
It was a packed house
Premier Redford puts a big smile on the face of former finance minister, Jim Dinning.
Gift from the HeArt exhibition at the Nina Haggerty Centre. Drawn by a Gr. 5 student, John!
Premier Redford stands with the winners of the Mistresses of the Modern. ATB Financial launched the Mistresses of the Modern – Celebrating Alberta Women though Stories competition with the goal of celebrating the unique, inspiring stories of Alberta women. They accepted nominations from the public and their judges selected seven winners. These women are from across the province and each has their own unique background. What they share in common is the amazing narrative they’ve created of their lives.
Premier Redford discusses Energy at the ARC Symposium
Peter Tertzakian, Chief Energy Economist and Managing Director of ARC Financial, hosts the Honourable Alison Redford for a fireside chat on energy matters that matter to us all.
Our oil and gas industry in Canada is in the midst of momentous change. Companies are responding; free market forces are shaking up boardrooms, relentlessly demanding creative strategies for formative years ahead.
Yet energy is a complex business with themes that cut across many concerns, including economy, security, environment, aboriginal claims and societal sensitivities. At the nexus of all this is government. Interestingly, federal and provincial officials are signaling strong support for key oil and gas issues like market diversification. Does this mark a new era of cooperation between government and industry?
Click on the video to hear more.
Endorsement - Former Premier Peter Lougheed
I wish to extend my wholehearted support of Premier Redford. This is a
time when Alberta needs to reestablish a position of leadership in
confederation.
Alberta's strength has always been our ability to lead the national
agenda while protecting provincial rights. Premier Redford is on the
right track with her Canadian Energy Strategy. We will achieve much more
by working with our fellow provinces.
Premier Redford is a leader who stands for Alberta and Alberta's natural
place in Canada. I am proud to have her leading Alberta's Progressive
Conservative Party.
Endorsement - Basketball Alberta
Basketball Alberta fully
supports the proposed Physical Activity Tax Credit initiative and the
proposed doubling of funding given to amateur sport organizations as put
forward by the Progressive Conservative Party. Our organization
recognizes the need for systemic advantages to encourage families to
find wholesome physical activity opportunities for their children.
Additional funding to amateur sport groups will provide a more varied
and higher quality number of options for families to consider. The
addition of these programs will enhance the health and well being for
Albertans as they lead more active lifestyles.
Fri, Apr 13, 2012
Wildrose and Agriculture: Just Making it Up as they Go Along?
Olds, Alberta April 19, 2012
 As part of a 110 year Alberta farming family, I was pretty shocked to hear Wildrose Leader Danielle Smith yesterday blame the Alberta PC’s for “a series of policies that have increased input costs, depressed crop prices and limited access to important international markets” in yesterday’s article in the Calgary Herald. It seems the Wildrose Party are a bit confused about the current state of affairs in agriculture.
First of all, crop prices are currently at all time highs....according to the Alberta Canola Producer’s Commission, canola is over $14 per bushel this week, and barley at over $4.50 per bushel, prices which are close to record highs. And as past Chair of the Alberta Beef Producers, I worked closely with the Alberta government to get international borders re-opened for beef markets around the world, in response to the BSE crisis which hit the industry in 2003; we now have regained access for our beef around the world, and beef prices are also at record highs.
When I served the broader Canadian agrifood industry as President of the Canadian Agrifood Trade Alliance, the PC government was one of the strongest contributors in Canada to efforts to liberalize agricultural trade. We have always been present for our farmers whether at the WTO or in various bi-lateral agreements advocating for the best outcome for our producers. Alberta was the first provincial government in Canada to advocate for improved marketing choice for farmers by eliminating single desk marketing of wheat and malt barley through the Canadian Wheat Board. And removal and closure of our Alberta trade offices in Asia and Europe, as the Wildrose leader proposes, will do nothing to help our farmers better access those markets.
And on the subject of increased input costs, the surprising suggestions by the Wildrose party keep coming. The 400+ people who attended the Olds-Didsbury-Three Hills forum at Olds College on April 11 were surprised when my rival, Wildrose candidate Bruce Rowe, suggested providing subsidies to fertilizer companies to help deal with the high price of nitrogen fertilizer….talk about making it up as you go along!
Wildrose has also incessantly beat the drum about rural property rights being threatened by Bills 19, 24, 36 and 50, but have been silent about the new legislation enabled over the last 12 months in Bills 6, 10, and 23. These bills are proof that Premier Redford and the new Alberta PCs have listened to the concerns of rural landowners, and have acted to ensure their property rights are protected by strengthening consultation, compensation, and (when necessary) access to the courts.
While I’m concerned about the Wildrose plans to eliminate the Alberta Meat and Livestock Agency, which invests in important research and market development activities for our industry, I’m even more concerned about their plans for farm insurance. As a Director of the Agricultural Financial Services Corp., a provincial Crown Corporation, I was pleased to see Budget 2012 commit $430 million to the most comprehensive set of agriculture risk management tools of any province in Canada. In the last four years AFSC has been responsible for distributing emergency funds to producers who found themselves struck by extreme weather as well as developing new programs such as the Cattle Price Insurance Program. Our farm risk management programs are the envy of other provinces, as we see the Brad Wall government in Saskatchewan building their own version of AFSC. Across the board budget cuts as promised by Danielle Smith and the Wildrose Party in their alternative budget would threaten reliable access to hail and crop insurance and numerous other programs that our farmers use and need to compete in the global marketplace.
Farmers are a lot of things….hard working, entrepreneurial, resilient and determined. One thing that they are not, is gullible….and the Wildrose penchant for “making it up as we go” does not sit well with farmers. That is why I am proud to be part of the new Alberta PC team with Premier Alison Redford, and look forward to working with her to continue to support rural Alberta, and invest in our agricultural community and young people.
Darcy Davis,
PC Candidate,
Olds-Didsbury-Three Hills
Volunteer Spotlight - Tarjinder Bhullar
 “The 2008 election is my favorite PC volunteer memory. I remember
experiencing the positive energy and enthusiasm from all of the youth that
helped with Manmeet Bhullar's campaign. Many of them had never been involved in
a campaign before but that didn't stop them. They had the willingness to learn,
the heart to cheer each other on and the will to say-this can be done, positive
change can be made!” Tarjinder Bhullar explains.
Tarjinder is a current regional director on the PCAA
executive team and will be the campaign manager for her brother, Manmeet, for
the second time around this election. She is a star in her community, well
organized and many look to her for advice.
Why does Tarjinder volunteer for the PC Party? She jokes
that it is a “prerequisite to hold good standing within my family”, but in all
seriousness she explains, “Volunteering for the PC Party is my way of reminding
myself that it is a privilege to live where I live, to have
the opportunities I have and that doesn't just happen.”
The Bhullar’s have an incredible story. Tarjinder
explains, “I live in a province that my parents came to with nothing more
than a desire to work hard, give their children the ability to pursue an
education and a career of their choice, all while recognizing that personal
success can go hand in hand with the success of one's entire community.
Volunteering with the PC Party is a way to be involved in the community - to
see that at the heart of politics is public service and we all have a role to
play in that.”
“I see people in the PC party that understand the core
values that all Albertans share. I see their desire to be true public servants.
I see people like Manmeet engage those that never thought they would be engaged
in politics. That makes me proud; it makes me see that the PC party stands
for values, beliefs and principles that tie us all together.”
Thank you for your hard work Tarjinder. We know that
Calgary-Greenway is in good hands with you and your brother!
Things we have learned
Our moment of reflection …
1.
Share everything - nothing is
truly off limits.
2.
Personal boundaries do not
exist nor does one’s own water glass.
3.
Breakfast is the most important
meal of the day, as it is likely your only full/warm meal.
4.
There are no secrets,
especially who snores or talks in their sleep.
5.
Learning that not all people
wake up at 5am and that some enjoy beauty rest.
6.
Putting up backdrops with one
person is next to impossible.
7.
Days of the week do not exist.
I.E: No such thing as a Tuesday, just Day ‘X’ of the campaign.
8.
Learn to be flexible, as you
rarely know where or what you are doing the next day.
9.
Caffeine is a food group.
10. Tim Horton stops are to refuel, not just about meeting constituents.
11. Ability to know where you are on the QE2 based on Exit Numbers.
12. Learn you can love and hate somebody all at the same moment.
13. Enjoy the shower, it is the only time you are alone.
14. Hotel staff will say welcome home (shout out to Delta Bow Valley)
15. Restaurants will guard food while the entire table steps out just
after being served for a 45 minute conference call.
16. Peanut Butter is a food group, easy to transport, and free to make
its way into your purse after breakfast.
17. Sleeping in your own bed is priceless.
18. PC volunteers across the
province are amazing, even if we just whirlwind in
and out of their area.
19. Making CDs for the road should have been in the travel tool kit
items.
20. Hot pink duct tape has some purpose.
21. Learn to appreciate the small victories. I.E: having business
centres at your hotel and no limit to pages you print.
22. Even though you yearn for privacy, after 2 days away from the tour
team, you miss them and cannot wait to reunite.
23. Knowing that it is all
worth it when the Premier thanks us at the end of the day, she is truly a
wonderful woman to work for.
From the PC Alberta Advance Team
Recap of Day 24 on the Campaign Trail
Premier Redford was joined by Doug Griffiths, candidate for Battle River-Wainwright, and Steve Christie, candidate for Lacombe-Ponoka, at a potato farm in Lacombe run by brothers Herman and Alen Scholing. They were there to to discuss the Progressive Conservatives commitment to agriculture industry in Alberta.
Volunteer Spotlight - Linda Yargeau
“I am proud to be part of a team of volunteers from across this province who are motivated by optimism and commitment, to be part of a provincial party that believes in a set of principles consistent with my values including fiscal and economic responsibility, a free enterprise economy and supporting Albertans to achieve their full potential,” explains Linda Yargeau.
Linda certainly embodies this pride as a star PC Party volunteer. She has been an active member of the Innisfail-Sylvan Lake PC Constituency Association for 15 years. She has served on the board as CFO and is currently President. On top of that she is a part of the PC Party Executive Team working as the Central Vice President. She takes this role very seriously and is constantly reaching out to ensure all of our central constituency associations are engaged. Linda was a member of the Senate Nomination Committee and the Executive Search Committee. She was also an important voice on the Membership Committee. This committee facilitated discussions to provide recommendations about changes to existing membership cards; changes that they hope to see in the next year.
“I still remember that Early Kinsella sold me my first PC membership but my most vivid first memory of volunteering for the PC Party was door knocking for former MLA Gary Severtson. It was an opportunity to hear from friends and neighbors about their expectations of government and issues that were important to them. From there I was hooked,” Linda says of her early experiences as a PC volunteer.
“My most memorable moment, however, would have to be watching the results unfold in a provincial campaign where our local candidate not only won the vote by a substantial margin but also soundly beat the leader of an opposition party,” Linda recounts. She knows her constituency will work even harder this time around to ensure another victory.
Thanks for all your hard work Linda! We are excited to watch you continue to shine in Innisfail-Sylvan Lake along with your whole team during Election 2012!
Recap of Day 22 & 23 on the Campaign Trail
On April 16, Premier Redford started her day out in Calgary by visiting Wayne Cao, candidate in Calgary-Fort and supporters at his campaign office.
Premier Redford joined Rick Fraser, candidate in Calgary-South East to talk with supporters.
Premier Redford took part in the first ever Calgary Herald/Edmonton Journal online leaders debate.
Premier Redford speaks with Media outside of Father Whelihan School.
Premier Redford and Farouk Adatia spoke to young students in Calgary - Shaw.
Premier Redford speaks to a packed house in Calgary Elbow.
On April 17, Premier Redford visited Jamie Lall, candidate for Calgary-Buffalo
Volunteer Spotlight - Devin Elkin
Devin Elkin is a fairly new PC volunteer. He has been an active member of the Calgary-Shaw constituency association for the past couple years. He helped out with the previous PC leadership vote, has been a key player in the coordination of community relations and has been doorknocking on a regular basis.
“My best moment thus far came during the PC leadership vote at our local community center. Having heard about the passion in this province this was the first time I had the chance to actually bear witness to those that care. The conversations, level of passion, and overall drive for change was clear in everyone that came to vote that day. It was a real eye opener to how passionate PC members are,” explains Devin.
As the president of the Midsun Community Association it has always been Devin’s stance that if you’re going to complain you have to put yourself in a position to do something about it. “It was this passion that had the current MLA, Cindy Ady, approach me and request that I sit on her board. It was in that moment of having someone of her accreditation, with values that reflect what the party is about, suggest such a thing. This was like the NY Yankees telling you had the right stuff and they wanted you to play on their team. The PC party is that team, the one everyone wants to be on because of what it represents, where it’s been and where it’s going. I am proud to be a PC because I am in a position to reflect change, to make a difference while holding my head high.”
“I volunteer for the PC party because I was asked to share my vision and passion for the community with those that also share that same passion. I volunteer because if I don’t, if we don’t, then we run the risk of making decisions that don’t reflect the best interest of our families, neighbours and friends. In short it’s our responsibility,” it’s clear Devin is a passionate PC.
Thank you Devin; especially for making volunteering for the PC Party your responsibility. You are a great example and community leader.
Recap of Day 21 on the Campaign Trail
Premier Redford was joined by Manmeet Bhullar during Vaisakahi celebrations in Calgary.
Premier Redford later celebrated Sri Lankan Sinhalese New Years with Moe Amery
Premier Redford visits the Bangladesh Community Association
Premier Redford visited the Vietnamese Buddhist temple in Calgary
Recap of Day 19 on the Campaign Trail
Premier Redford was joined by various First Responders to announce that the Alberta Government will legislate that Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is included in the list of injuries and illnesses covered by the Workers' Compensation Board.
Premier Redford was joined by Thomas Lukaszuk, candidate for Edmonton-Castle Downs
Premier Redford visits The Current on CBC
This morning, Premier Redford chatted with Anna Maria Tremonti on The
Current on CBC. Click below to listen to their conversation:
Recap of Day 17 on the Campaign Trail
Premier Redford started out the day at the in Elbow Valley with Ted Morton, candidate in Chestermere-Rocky View
Premier Redford greets supporters in Red Deer
Premier Redford and Bev Esslinger, candidate for Edmonton-Calder, visited the Shepherd's Care Kensington Village
Premier Redford joined David Dorward in Edmonton-Gold Bar to meet constituents and listen to Brett Kissel, a young Alberta country music artist
Premier Redford and Brett Kissel
Recap of Day 16 on the Campaign Trail
A supporter hugs Premier Redford after the forum
Premier Redford's dad came out to show his support
Premier Redford talked with students after the forum
Premier Redford headed to Cochrane, and posed in front of the Rockyview Hotel on her way to visit Mckay's to help scoop up and serve their world famous ice cream
Recap of Day 15 on the Campaign Trail
Premier Redford speaks to an excited crowd at Vecova in Calgary, which is a registered non-profit charitable research and service agency that has been meeting the needs of persons with disabilities and the community-at-large since 1969.
Premier Redford received a card from AISH recipients
Premier Redford and Linda Johnson, candidate for Calgary-Glenmore, visited with constituents at a local shopping centre.
Premier Redford and Linda Johnson are joined by former MLA Bill Dicky in Calgary-Glenmore.
A note on Agriculture
Arno Doerksen is the incumbent candidate in Strathmore-Brooks. To learn more, visit his website at http://doerksen.votepc.ca.
My experience in agriculture comes from 20 years as an owner and manager of a cattle and irrigation farm in our constituency. Prior to my role as your MLA I have also served for more than 10 years as an elected Chairman or Board Member of associations that represent Albertans who make their living in agriculture. Livestock and crop production has been an important contributor to the local economy and while there will always be challenges, I am optimistic about the future of agriculture in Alberta.
Over the years I have had the opportunity on multiple occasions to visit our top export markets for Alberta’s agriculture products including China, Japan, Mexico, South Korea and the USA. There are significant and growing opportunities particularly in countries such as China where rising incomes create demand. To maintain our current capacity and also to secure a future for younger producers entering the industry we need to ensure we have stable and meaningful access to markets around the world. My time as your MLA and also as Chairman of the Canada Beef Export Federation and the Alberta Beef Producers has given me an understanding of the way in which government operates at the local, provincial, federal and international levels. We need strong relationships to maintain our access to markets and also a willingness to challenge unfair trading practices, such as Country of Origin Labeling in the USA, where that is necessary.
The world’s population which is now approximately 7 billion is continuing to grow and by United Nations estimates will hit 9 billion by the middle of this century. As we all know the land available to grow crops and produce livestock cannot expand proportionally. I am a strong supporter of research and innovations in areas such as the creation of new improved crop varieties which increase yield and this work is underway in our province. There is also an opportunity to increase our production of value added products to grow the already substantial numbers of Albertan’s employed in the agri-food sector. Government has a role with industry in supporting research and this is an area that can benefit agricultural production in our constituency.
There are also areas where I think the private sector needs to lead with government in the background as much as possible. There is an opportunity to streamline and simplify our regulations and reduce the time the agricultural community spends dealing with government departments. We also need to ensure that interactions with government including those related to property right issues are fair and well understood. I recently served on the Property Rights Taskforce at the request of Premier Allison Redford and appreciated the perspectives shared with me by producers in our constituency and throughout the province.
Fundamentally, I understand the importance of agricultural land and believe the changes in approach described by the Premier including a dedicated Provincial Advocate to help land owners are essential. Full compensation and the means to challenge a decision which in the view of the land owner is not satisfactory is equally important.
As was mentioned at the start of this article I am optimistic about the future of agriculture in our communities. My goal is to continue to represent our producers to the best of my abilities and to bring forward issues that matter to you in the Alberta Legislature.
Sincerely,
Arno Doerksen
Family Care Clinics
Earlier in the week, Premier Redford announced 140 Family
Care Clinics that would be established across the province. There have been a
lot of good questions about exactly what these would be, so I wanted to take
some time to discuss them.
Family Care Clinics are designed to be a one-stop shop for
Albertans to be able to access a variety of health care services. In any one of the
clinics, Albertans will have access to doctors, nurse practitioners, registered nurses, licensed practical
nurses, social workers, dieticians, mental health workers, physiotherapists and
pharmacists. Instead of having to travel to multiple locations, you would be
able to get to see the health care worker you need to see.
Some
have asked if Family Care Clinics will replace the highly successful Primary
Care networks. They will not, instead they will work with them, and build on
and leverage their successes. Primary Care Networks are an administrative set
up. Doctors and other health workers are linked, but the services are not
provided in the same place, you have to see a doctor first, and the hours are
limited. Family Care Clinics would provide care under one roof with extended
hours. If you needed to see a dietician, you would see them directly, without
first having to see a doctor, thus freeing up their time as well. The goal is
to provide direct access to the most appropriate care provider. This will allow
Albertans to access as many primary health needs as possible in one time and
place.
These
clinics will not be established with a one size fits all mentality. Instead,
local communities will determine how they will look and function. Each clinic
will be tailored to best meet local primary care health needs. They will serve
all Albertans, including those that are underserved, those without a family
physician, and those with high needs.
So
far, 44 communities have expressed interest. Currently, there are 3 pilot
Family Care Clinics; in Edmonton, Calgary and Slave Lake. These pilots will be
evaluated by a Family Care Clinic Minister’s Advisory Committee, which has
representation from members of many of Alberta’s regulated health professions
including the Alberta Medical Association, Alberta College of Psychologists,
College & Association of Registered Nurses of Alberta, Alberta College of
Social Workers, among others. This
Committee was consulted during the development of family care clinics and will
continue to provide advice and evaluation.
Family
Care Clinics are about getting people the care they need. Their focus will
place emphasis on wellness, addiction, mental health, and chronic disease
prevention and management. It is about helping people and families see the
specialist or health care worker they need quicker, and with more convenience.
We have seen success with them so far, and we are confident that they will
continue to be successful as they are set up over the next 4 years.
Blog from Donna Kennedy-Glans, candidate for Calgary-Varsity
Donna Kennedy-Glans, candidate for Calgary-Varsity, wrote a blog about how healthcare is a shared priority for the people in Calgary-Varsity. Since healthcare is a priority for all Albertans, we thought we would share it here. To learn more about Donna, you can visit her website at www.donnapc.ca.
Healthcare is a shared priority for people in Calgary-Varsity
At the doorsteps, it’s clear: Healthcare is a shared priority for people in Calgary-Varsity.And, many people in this constituency are front-line healthcare professionals, administrators and researchers who play direct roles in the design and delivery of healthcare.
Yes, there are many legitimate concerns about healthcare, and no one wants to sweep these challenges under the carpet. And, there is great upside too. Let’s reframe the scarcity mentality to ask, instead: How can we support the most effective healthcare system in Alberta? Our healthcare system has the potential to be another jewel in Alberta’s crown. Right now, we have the unprecedented opportunity in Alberta to strengthen and sustain a quality healthcare system for all Albertans, one that has the potential to attract people to Alberta and to become an economic engine in Alberta's knowledge- based economy.
To realize this potential, we need to reframe the healthcare discussion; it’s time to have an adult discussion on healthcare. I want to resist the temptation to use polarizing and fear-inducing language in the discussion about healthcare in Alberta (two tier, private/public), pitting Albertans against one another in their perceived access to a ‘scarce’ resource.
Healthcare Quality
What do Albertans want? We all want quality healthcare. In healthcare, quality includes several aspects: accessibility, acceptability, effectiveness, efficiency, safety and appropriateness. Looking at any of these aspects in isolation, without considering the others, leaves the discussion incomplete.
Image from: http://www.albertahealthservices.ca/hp/if-hp-ce-scn-pocketcard.pdf
Expanding the discussion
Front line healthcare providers (e.g. doctors, nurses, technicians) are responsible for exercising judgment to ensure quality healthcare is delivered within a wider system. In a simple example, a cancer doctor may see a patient—a 17 year old with bone cancer in her knee. That doctor’s professional responsibility is to that individual patient, and the doctor will make choices (e.g. about MRI, testing, surgery, treatment) about that young cancer patient within a wider system. In some cases, that may mean the doctor chooses to advocate for this patient to be treated in priority to other patients with less life threatening surgeries. Our healthcare system must afford this adaptiveness to assure quality (in this case, responding to what is appropriate). Our focus must not just be on top-down policy in healthcare; we need to refocus on front-line, bottom-up.
As a society, we determine what essential healthcare services look like, and the Alberta government is responsible for creating the conditions for quality healthcare to be provided. This can entail public and innovative approaches to delivery, for example, the radiological model in Alberta. And, a quality healthcare system in Alberta means that government must work with all partners…this takes collaboration and trust. Delivering quality healthcare is also dependent on a partnership with each and every Albertan. We have a strong sense of personal responsibility, and as individuals and families, we need to make personal choices that help us all to realize the full potential of our healthcare system. It is time to start making practical choices in how we use the system, asking ourselves good questions, for example: when would a 24 clinic be a more appropriate choice rather than a hospital emergency department emergency?
We have one of the best healthcare systems in the world. There is no need to ravage this system, and ourselves, with divisive, polarizing arguments. We have the opportunity to build on our positive experiences and learnings, for example, the progression from Primary Care Networks to Family Care Clinics. With collaboration, we can continue the work of aligning incentives to create appropriate choices in healthcare. We need to affirm with one another the belief that every Albertan is equal. And we need to honestly and openly talk about what decision-making looks like in a healthcare system where front-line healthcare experts are trusted to make choices about resource allocation.
With trust-- and rational discussion that includes all stakeholders--we can be proud of Alberta’s quality healthcare system. We can recognize its worth as another jewel in Alberta’s crown.
Donna Kennedy-Glans; PC Candidate for Calgary-Varsity
Recap of Day 11 on the Campaign Trail
Premier Redford started day 10 of the campaign in Calgary, where she annouced a plans to introduce "Fast-Track" Emergency Rooms to reduce wait times in Alberta
Premier Redford next headed to Drumheller to visit Jack Hayden , incumbent candidate for Drumheller-Stettler
It was there Premier Redford announced a new $500 teacher tax credit . Teachers often go above and beyond for students, reaching into their own pockets for classroom supplies and support students.
Premier Redford visited the Verdant Valley & Dorcas Women's Institute, the oldest organization in Alberta, who are celebrating their 100th anniversary in May
Recap of Day 10 on the Campaign Trail
Day 9 of the campaign started off in Lethbridge:
Premier Redford, along with Greg Weadick and Bridget Pastoor , announced the Seniors' Activity Tax Creditat at the Medicine Hat Lodge
Premier Redford also visited the Calgary-Varsity Preschool. She announced funding for 50 new schools and modernization for 70 more schools in the next 4 years
Recap of Day 8 on the Campaign Trail
Day 8 of the campaign started off in Medicine Hat:
Premier Redford started off the day in Medicine Hat, where she discussed her commitment for continued investment
Premier Redford visited with the "Red Hat" ladies
Premier Redford was made an honourary "Red Hat"
Premier Redford next visited Taber, along with local candidate Pat Shimbashi , local candidate for Cardston-Taber-Warner
Premier Redford visited Reboth Christian Ministries near Coaldale
Rehoboth Christian Ministries employees people with mental disabilities, many of whom are AISH recipients
Premier Redford attended a coffee party near Coaldale, where she got up close and personal with a burrowing owl
A recap of week 1 from Spruce Grove-Sturgeon-St. Albert
Well, the first week is done and we have been able to talk to thousands in our constituency, both at the doors and on the phone.
The response from those we speak to is that they want us to set Healthcare, Education, and infrastructure as our priorities. Our communities are growing and we need health care facilities and professionals, schools and teachers, roads, rail and overpasses.
Yes we need to be prudent… but these are the things that we need to continue to grow.
There is a lot of misinformation out there. It is challenging over social media and traditional media, but at the doors we can get to the discussion of issues.
We are not going to raise taxes, we are not going to stop homeschooling or private schools, we are not going to blend school boards together and we are not going to take your land away.
Albertans want us to focus on hope and opportunity… not fear and anger.
This election is about the future of our Province. Premier Redford campaigned for the leadership of our Party based on change… change in the way we do things.
The opposition parties talk about cuts to education, healthcare and infrastructure or about raising taxes and doing more of the same in healthcare. We need to invest in our future. Let’s build schools where and when we need them. Let’s build family care clinics so you can see the heath professional you need to see. Let’s build the roads and infrastructure to prepare our economy for a sustainable future.
Former Premier Lougheed recently said the Wildrose want us to go back to the days of Social Credit. Alison Redford is bringing us back to Progressive Conservative, and I remain a proud Progressive Conservative!
Thanks to all who have been working so hard on our campaign let’s keep the momentum going!
-Doug Horner is the candididate for Spruce Grove-Sturgeon-St. Alberta
Calgary-NW Community Leaders: Community Kitchen
"How's it going on the campaign trail", people ask me every day. The truth? Fantastic! Sure, there are people out there who are unhappy with some governrment policy and decisions, but most are entirely willing to talk about these issues and find collaborative solutions. It's the great thing about Albertans. We are positive and not afraid to tackle the issues at hand. This is why I'm running for MLA - I want to be a part of those solutions.
Calgary-Northwest continues to delight and amaze me. We have so many talented and philanthropic residents here that I MUST take my hat off to their efforts. Take for instance, Joan Nordin. Joan is a resident of Tuscany and I had the pleasure of meeting her through her husband, Dr. Phil Nordin, the energetic senior pastor with the Jubilee Christian Centre.
Joan is the Operations Manager for the Community Kitchen Program, an organization with some first rate programs that are filling the hungry stomachs of some of Calgary's most needy. Heard of Tummy Tamers? It's a feeding program that finds kids from low income families who normally depend on school lunch programs but fall through the cracks in the summer. Some of these kids have no daytime supervision and hang out in parks with no food or water all day. It would be a pretty dismal way to get by if Joan and crew weren't there to make sure they have a hot lunch, water bottles and even sunblock!
The programs are numerous at Community Kichen and they all need volunteers to keep them running. If you have some time, even an hour or two a week....please give them a call and pitch in. It's a great feeling to know a few less kids (and homeless Calgarians too!) are out on our streets, hungry and alone. Check out their website at www.ckpcalgary.ca. The program founder, Marilyn Gunn, is standing by too, to inspire you to get involved and begin "Taking the Bite Out of Hunger".
And by the way, Dr Phil Nordin is no slouch in the philanthropy department either! He is off to Ethiopia again building schools and orphanages. And if that's not enough, these dynamic Nordins have their kids involved in their endeavors...a family worthy of a MAJOR salute!!
-Sandra Jansen is the candidate for Calgary-North West.
Tales from the Campaign Bus - April 3, 2012
Brad is traveling on the Campaign Bus across with Premier Redford.
Day nine began at the Medicine Hat lodge where day 8 had previously come to a close. Early in the morning Premier Redford made an announcement about a budget initiative which would see the undertaking of the Trans Canada Overpass and a hospital expansion. Both these infrastructure projects are exciting for the people of Medicine Hat and are essential as the region continues to grow.
Leaving the Medicine Hat Lodge Premier Redford made a quick stop at the CO-OP to visit with locals and enjoy a cup of coffee. Among the locals excited to see the PC leader were a couple who had been married for 70 years – crazy! Also enjoying a morning coffee were the “Red Hats” a great group of women who were excited to chat with the Premier and even gave her a hat, making her an honorary Red Hat.
Premier Redford’s campaign bus then hit the road as we travelled to Taber where Premier was greeted by our enthusiastic PC Candidate Pat Shimbashi, along with his many supporters! On main Street Taber in front of a local pharmacy and surrounded by media, Premier Redford
announced a new healthcare initiative, allowing pharmacists to utilize their full scope of practice writing prescriptions for drug renewals, easing the stress on doctors. As Premier walked the short distance from main street to Pat’s campaign office, supporters had gathered and Premier spent time shaking hands and spoke briefly, reminding supporters that this election will shape Alberta’s future.
Just a short drive outside of Taber was our next stop at Gouw Farms; an Alberta owned and operated company. This factory processes and packages onions... a lot of onions! This stop was a great example of strong Alberta companies using amazing technology and amazing people to create a great Alberta produced product.
 Our next stop was remarkably exciting, the Rehoboth Christian Ministries is run by persons with mental disabilities. This beautiful nursery and wood shop offers meaningful employment to some of Alberta’s most vulnerable citizens. The stop brought a great smile to Premier Redford’s face, as well as to the faces of those who work there. Many employees thanked Premier for their increases in AISH, and they presented her with a beautiful bird house they built for her.
This is an amazing an initiative, which is supplying great products (many of which Premier Redford purchased before leaving).
John Kolk joined Premier Redford on the bus in between the events in his riding today, and took us to a coffee party being held in Coaldale. The coffee party was filled with great community leaders and active volunteers. Shortly after arriving a gentleman who works with birds of prey asked Alison if she would like to hold a young burrowing Owl. Premier was thrilled as she rubbed her nose against the owls beak, certainly a first and likely a last (at least for this
campaign).
Later in the afternoon Premier Redford joined Greg Weadick at Whoop up park to visit the scouts. As Premier entered Fort Whoop Up she received a traditional sweet grass smudge and a tour of the aboriginal museum. Outside Premier joined the scouts and was even made an honorary scout, repeating the scouts honor. As she joined the scouts for stories around the campfire Premier Redford spoke of how much she enjoyed seeing kids of all ages, learn and grow up in the Scouts
Canada organization.
The final event of the day was a motivating one. As Premier Redford entered Greg Weadick’s campaign office in Lethbridge the support was invigorating! In the building which appears to have been a restaurant and bar in another life, PC supporters clammered to shake Premier’s hand and to hear her speak! Premier was even joined by senate candidates Mike sheikh and Scott Tannas as she chatted with locals!
Day 9 was a day about building a stronger, healthier Alberta. From infrastructure to healthcare, the issues which effect Alberta are integrated and need to be thought of as such. Premier Redford’s vision for the future of Alberta does just that, can’t wait for day 10!
Recap of Day 8 on the Campaign Trail
Day 7 of the campaign started off in Strathmore:
Premier Redford announced 140 new Family Care Clinics across Alberta in front of Rocky View Bakery in Strathmore.
Premier Redford visited the campaign office of Arno Doerksen , incumbent candidate for Strathmore-Brooks
Later in the day, Premier Redford visited the Inland Skateboard Park in Medicine Hat.
Recap of Day 6 & 7 on the Campaign Trail
Day 6 of the campaign was spent in Edmonton:
Premier Redford and Rick McIver , candidate in Calgary-Hays, started the day at the Genesis Centre of Community Wellnessin Calgary.
Premier Redford and Rick McIver visited with community members at a local Tim Hortons
Premier Redford next visited campaign office of Kyle Fawcett , incumbent candidate for Calgary-Klien.
Premier Redford also visited the campaign office of Jonathan Denis , incumbent candidate for Calgary-Acadia.
Premier Redford and Manmeet Bhullar , incumbent candidate for Calgary-Greenway, visit the Westside Recreation Centre in Calgary
Premier Redford ended the evening by attending the Calgary Filipino Community Fundraiser.
On Day 7, Premier Redford visited with Jamie Lall , candidate for Calgary-Buffalo.
Tales from the Campaign Bus - March 30, 2012
 The morning began with coffee in Edmonton-Centre with candidate Akash Khokhar at Credo Coffee Shop where she chatted with the regulars. Leaving the coffee shop with Akash she walked the streets of Edmonton-Centre, getting some fresh air and discussing technology start ups and entrepreneurial innovation. Premier Redford then took a tour of "Startup Edmonton" an entrepreneur-led nonprofit organization that amplifies creative innovation and activates startups in our community.
 Over lunch Premier joined hockey legend Gordie Howe at the Scotiabank Pro-am for Alzheimer's. The lunch was a great event, hosting a packed room of hockey fans, and even the mayor of Edmonton. Both Gordie Howe and Premier Redford signed a jersey before Premier spoke. Premier Redford spoke of her memories as a youth watching Hockey Night in Canada with her father on Saturday nights. There is no doubt the Alzheimer Society of Alberta & Northwest Territories is doing great work http://www.alzheimer.ab.ca/ .
 Moving from Edmonton to Leduc, Premier Redford joined candidate George Rogers at a rec centre for the announcement of a seniors' property tax deferral program. After being greeted by enthusiastic supporters, she spoke of the importance of ensuring those who built the strong province we live in today are properly cared for. The importance of this initiative was exemplified by the grandmother proudly taking pictures of her young grandson with Premier Redford after she spoke.
 In Innisfail Luke Ouellette hosted the Premier at his packed campaign office, which smelled delicious as supporters enjoyed beef on a bun. Premier Redford spent time shaking hands, and speaking with all of the supporters before both her and Luke said a few short words.
At the final stop of the day, Premier Redford joined Olds-Didsbury-Three Hills candidate Darcy Davis at his campaign office, where she would interview him for a video, before they headed down to the local coffee shop to meet supporters. Upon entering the coffee shop Premier Redford  was quickly embraced in a long hug by an admiring young lady. As a recipient of AISH increases her appreciation for Premier Redford was clear by her smile as she thanked Alison.
Today was a day that was all about the quality of life here in Alberta, a topic which was embraced at every stop.
For more pictures of the event, visit the Premier's Facebook Page .
Seniors' Property Tax Deferral Program
 Every summer when I was young, my parents would throw me and my siblings
into our van, and we would drive 10 hours to the acreage my grandparents lived on. My grandparents had lived there for longer than I can remember. In
fact, my dad would tell us every year how him and his brother actually dug out
the basement of the house – after it was built. My grandpa built the swing set,
the merry-go-round, two go karts, a bicycle built for two, and he actually
built my first car, a VW Beetle.
They loved their home, as did all of our family. It was a
place for my grandparents to host the grandkids, my cousins, aunts and uncles.
They were proud of not only the house they had built, but the home that it
became.
Seniors help make Alberta the great province that it is to live,
work and raise a family. The Seniors' Tax Deferral Program is simple enough: It
allows seniors to defer their property tax through a home equity loan, which
keeps more money in their pockets. The deferred tax is paid back to the
government only after the home is sold. With more money in their pockets, seniors won’t have to stress about home repairs, medical bills, or spoiling
their grandkids.
This voluntary program just makes sense. There are 170,000
households that are eligible. This will help real people, and I know that
Albertans will embrace helping out those that built this province.
Eldon
PC Alberta Volunteer
Recap of Day 5 on the Campaign Trail
Day 5 of the campaign was spent in Edmonton:
Premier Redford and Akash Khokhar, candidate for Edmonton-Centre, met with local constituents at Credo Coffee.
Premier Redford joined Mr. Hockey (Gordie Howe) at the Scotiabank Pro-am for Alzheimer's.
Premier Redford and George Rogers, incumbent candidate for Leduc-Beaumont-Devon, visted the Leduc Recreation Centre to make an announcement about the Seniors' Tax Deferral Program.
Premier Redford stopped by the campaign office of Luke Ouellette, incumbent candidate for Innisfail-Sylvan Lake.
Premier Redford and Darcy Davis , candidate for Olds-Didsbury-Three Hills.
|
