Hello Banff-Kananaskis! As the back-to- school season arrives and routines reset, it’s hard to believe how quickly the summer has flown by. Our summer calendar was bustling with community events across our riding, and it’s been a joy to participate in so many of them.
We enjoyed attending a variety of events, including Indigenous Peoples’ Day celebrations in Banff, pancake breakfasts in Priddis and Exshaw, and Stampede festivities in Calgary. We also participated in Canmore Public Library’s events, BBQs in Waiparous, Bragg Creek Days, the Canmore Folk Festival, Alberta Innovates’ HYRS Open House, and the Priddis & Millarville Fair. Other highlights included visits to the Kiyooka Sculpture Park in Springbank, United Fest with the Ukrainian Canadian Congress Bow Valley Association Team, the “Come Paint Alberta” En Plein Air Session, the Back to School BBQ in Stoney Heath, the Springbank Old Tyme Country Fair, and the Canmore Festival of Art & Creativity. And of course, my MLA on Tour visits allowed me to connect with many of you directly as well.
Balancing these engagements with my legislative responsibilities and constituent needs is no small feat. While I strive to be present at events and in our diverse communities, I depend on my dedicated staff to represent me when I cannot be there in person.
Allow me to introduce Sean Tonelli, your Constituency Manager. Sean joined our team just over a year ago, bringing a passion for community advocacy and a commitment to addressing local needs. His daily efforts ensure that your concerns are heard and that our government is working effectively on your behalf. Whether advocating for sustainable development, supporting local businesses, or protecting our natural environment, Sean is dedicated to making our community thrive. Sean will tell you that his goal is to strengthen relationships within our community and “to help make Banff-Kananaskis an even better place to live, work, and visit.”
We’re also thrilled to welcome Joan Chand’oiseau, who recently joined us part-time as a Constituent Assistant. Joan’s role focuses on outreach, helping us connect more deeply with our communities through social media and local events. I first met Joan during the 2023 provincial election when she was a candidate for the neighbour riding of Calgary West. Her dedication to community and human rights, combined with her extensive experience in government relations and the social service sector, makes her a valuable addition to our team. Joan lives in Springbank with her husband and three teens and actively volunteers, currently serving on the Board of Directors for FCSS for Rocky View County. I have no doubt Joan will serve our riding with the same dedication, compassion, and integrity she has demonstrated as an award-winning community leader.
This summer, you might have also interacted with our Summer Outreach students, Kate and Dominique. As they return to their studies, I want to extend a heartfelt thanks for their hard work and contributions.
I encourage you to connect with me, Sean, and Joan about your organizations, events, or any issues where we can assist. If you’re interested in my thoughts on recent changes made by the Minister for
Forestry & Parks regarding regulations for dealing with ‘conflict’ bears, please check out the August edition of High Country News. Your feedback is crucial for me to represent your concerns effectively when the legislature resumes next month.
Thank you for continuing to welcome my staff and me into your communities and for trusting us to serve your needs. Connect with us on social media, sign up for our bi-monthly newsletter, and reach out to us at Banffkananakis@assembly.ab.ca.
Sarah Elmeligi
