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| NEWS - November 24, 2009 |
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| 30 years of service |
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Andrew Serba
Leader Staff
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Last Saturday marked the 30th year Ken Kowalski was elected to represent his constituency as a Member of Alberta’s Legislative Assembly.
Federal, provincial and municipal politicians along with constituents from across Barrhead-Morinville-Westlock met to honour a man who has found stability in a career most known for its uncertainty.
Don Toth, the speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan, told the crowd of 550 people that Kowalski’s success in politics stems from his dedication to the people he represents.
"I think there’s three things that can explain Ken’s longevity in politics," he said. "Hard work, sound representation and a servant’s heart.... (In politics) you need to know what it means to be a servant."
The celebration took place at Westlock’s Community Hall under the theme "Time Flies." Kowalski told the crowd it was a challenge when he decided to leave a stable career as a teacher for one in politics. He entered politics in 1974 with a position as an executive assistant in the Ministry of Agriculture.
In 1979 he made another leap of faith when he decided to run for the Progressive Conservative nomination in a by-election and had to resign from his post at the ministry. Kowalski said it was a decision that left him with no income or stability, but it was a path he never strayed from.
"Never look back in life," Kowalski said. "Always go forward."
That tenacity and determination has helped him to stay the course ever since he won the 1979 by-election. It was a success he would repeat another eight times, each with more votes than the last. He has also been Speaker of the Legislative Assembly since first being elected to the position in 1997.
Barrhead Mayor Brian Schulz said Kowalski’s representation has been effective for the Town and surrounding area over the years.
"I’ve worked very closely with Mr. Kowalski and he’s always open to listen to our concerns," he said. "Looking around this room, the number of lives he’s touched and the number of people who have been positively affected by his decisions is obvious."
Alberta Premier Ed Stelmach said the experience that Kowalski brings to the party serves as an excellent example for all its members.
"I’ve had the pleasure of serving with Ken since I was first elected in 1992," Stelmach said. "He’s a great campaigner – going to business after business along Main Street."
Kowalski, who said he did not know who would be coming to the celebration, said the theme was a fitting one. Time has flown and he has had fun, he said.
"Overall, when you take everything into consideration, it’s been really positive. Of course it’s had its ups and downs, that happens all the time to everybody in life. But it’s been worthwhile and productive – that’s what’s really key." Kowalski added that he is always looking to better his constituency and that he is dedicated to continuing his work for his constituents.
"I couldn’t care less what position I have in Edmonton," Kowalski said. "The most important job I have is to be the Member of the Legislative Assembly for the constituency of Barrhead-Morinville-Westlock...and they’ve honoured me for 30 years." |
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