35 years of Management and Public Relations Counsel, 35 years of Political Practice, Integrated contemporary MBA Graduate Studies, Editor

and Publisher, Sherwood Park Independent Weekly 105 Blueberry Crescent, Sherwood Park Alberta T8H 1P5: Cell Phone 780.686.8072; Telephone 780. 464.5311 E. jamesfordindependent@shaw.ca

February 1, 2012 NEWS RELEASE: James Ford is entering the race as Independent Candidate in Sherwood Park Spring election 2012 : His pledge: To be the best M.L.A. ever
I have nearly 40 years of communications and public relations experience coupled with a graduate, a university masters degree in communications as well as three decades of political history and involvement at the municipal, provincial and federal levels. I understand no MLA can be an expert on all issues. However, I am practiced and passionate about taking the voters concerns into the legislature and bringing back plain-talk information. Just as I have proven with producing 150 issues of my local constituency weekly newspaper over the past three years, my goal is to be the best messenger ever, to answer every inquiry, to bring back plain talk constituency information, to focus on representing what the residents have to say about shared programs and initiatives and to speak without fear of partisan politics. The idea of having to be a loyal party backbencher can be terribly unrewarding to the constituents. At least an independent can demand more attention for what is major constituency in the province of Alberta. A wise first native chief once said in answer a reporters question as to the reason for his achievements he said, To be successful the key is, to stand where you can be seen. As an Independent at least I have a better chance of being seen and ultimately heard. In terms of what legislation will I support? I will support legislation put forth those parties and those bills that best serve our constituency and Alberta. Know however that I am a right wing conservative and will support conservative ideas. I want people to think about an independent candidate, not as a member of a hockey or a football team can face being benched. I want constituents of my being someone who can achieve success as a track and field athlete a runner, swimmer, down hill skier. It is up to me to achieve as your representative and as such will endevour to serve well. Independents have served in the legislature in the past and have performed admirably. You only have to consider the services of Dr. Walter Buck who served in the Fort Saskatchewan, Strathcona County region for more than 9 years as an Independent MLA. Following his retirement he continues to receive the respect and admiration of his community. Attachment: Issues Statement James and his wife Marjorie have lived in Sherwood Park for more than 30 years and have second and third generations living in the Park Daughters Keely (Neil) Vany, Tammy (Tony) Bulman, three grandchildren, Jesse (16), Tanner (13) and Katie (11)