A Message from your MLA
Len Webber - MLA Calgary - Foothills
(December 2011)
As I look back on this past year and reflect on the challenges and changes our community and province have experienced to date, I am continually reminded that our collective strength to create a future of growthand stability, amidst world-wide uncertainty, rests within each of us. I am moved by the support and good work of people across our community, energized by the achievements of our younger generations, and inspired by the wisdom and inquiry of those ‘young and old’ who have visited my office or sent emails of concern or issue inquiry. Responding to hundreds of emails and meeting with numerous constituents has kept meapprised of priority areas requiring attention on your behalf. I appreciate the time taken, your thoughtful comments and commitment to bring issues forward to our constituency office.
I am so proud to acknowledge the achievements of 901 high school students from our Calgary-Foothills communities who, over this past year, were awarded provincial scholarships totaling $1,415,300. In addition, from these same communities, I have been privileged to congratulate many youth, adults and seniors on their athletic accomplishments and leadership in Summer and Winter Games, both provincially and nationally, as participants, coaches and volunteers. It has been a particular highlight to meet so many individuals from our constituency over these past few months, through Constituency Days, ‘Coffee and Chat’ appointments, andcommunity events. We are truly blessed with people of all ages committed to a solid future for our community.
And now, December is upon us. It is a very special time of year – a month when millions of homes all around the world are decorated with Christmas trees, lights and candles. This is Christmas. It is a time whenwe re- member others; when we make extra effort to contact all those special people who quietly support us in so many different ways throughout our life. It is a time to slow down... to share precious moments with our loved ones... to fi ll some of our days with fun, family, friends and festivity.
This festival celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ. Over the years, Christmas has become a time of gift giving and rejoicing in peace. We have taken many customs from different places around the world and mixedthem together to form our modern celebration of Christmas. For example, we have taken the Christmas tree from Germany and the gift giving from the Dutch tradition of leaving out wooden shoes to be filled wit goodies. But one tradition remains universal --- the tradition of sharing and love, in fellowship and togetherness. It is in spreading the warmth in our hearts to touch the lives of others with joy and good cheer that the true meaning of Christmas unfolds.
As we deal with the pressures from this past year, I hope we can pause to consider our blessings often forgotten or taken for granted. Let us take some time to look forward...to plan for a future that encouragesopportunity, is inclusive, sustainable and values family and community...where we can share ideas, listen, learn and pre- serve a quality of life special to us all.
I want to thank you for the support you have given my family and I over this past year. Your understanding, guidance and support have buoyed me. I am truly honoured to represent you in the Alberta Legislature and will continue to work to the best of my abilities to be sure your voice is heard in government. As your MLA, I am always available to assist you in any way I can.
My daughters and I join in extending our very best wishes to you this holiday season. May the wonderful blessings of Christmas be with you throughout the New Year.
Len Webber, MLA
Calgary - Foothills Constituency