John Becker for Pitt Meadows Mayor

Media release September 21, 2011 For immediate release

John Becker wins award and ramps up run for Pitt Meadows Mayor
PITT MEADOWS, BC - Premier Christy Clark presented The May Brown Award to Mayor candidate, John Becker recently. The award recognizes a member of the B.C. Liberal Party who has performed tirelessly as a community and civic leader. Its awarded every two years by the Awards Committee of the Provincial Executive. Im attered to be recognized for my work and leadership in our community a place that I love and care deeply about. As a community Im proud of the great strides weve made. Much work is still needed, though, and I look forward to achieving even more for Pitt Meadows, said Becker. When asked why Becker was singled out for this award, Marion Keys, Fraser Valley Regional Director of the B.C. Liberal Party, says, John stepped in as President of the new Maple Ridge - Mission riding and did the best possible job that you can imagine. The following year he served as President of the Maple Ridge Pitt Meadows riding for two years. Its his commitment that sets him apart from others -- he just doesnt quit until the job is complete. We all like John he has a quick wit and hes an easy person to be around. And as a leader, hes clear about what he has in mind and hes absolutely authentic. We need more politicians in this world like this. John doesnt bend with the wind; he has a strong moral compass. He would be a great Mayor for Pitt Meadows. Becker is actively pursuing the role of Pitt Meadows Mayor and has recently limited some of his other civic interests. Last week he declined to run for President of the Maple Ridge/Pitt Meadows Liberal Riding Association in favour of focusing on both his run for Mayor and the duties of Mayor, should he be elected. John resigned as the current Riding President at the AGM on September 15, 2011. He is also stepping down from his position as Chair of the Meadowridge School Board of Governors, where he has been an active board member for the past 10 years. Hugh Burke, Meadowridge School, Headmaster, adds, I wish him well. John is an inspiring leader with highly developed organizational and leadership

skills. Our board meetings are far more efcient and effective thanks to John. He doesnt go ahead with initiatives that arent well thought-through, supported or resourced. He has a long-term vision and also understands the daily things and how the two are aligned. Ultimately, though, John is interested in the common good, not personal good. I am very focussed on taking on the role of Mayor and dedicating whatever time is needed to do the job and using my leadership experience to serve Pitt Meadows. Its difcult to disengage from organizations from which I have dedicated much time and energy, but I am delighted to be concentrating on the possibility of accomplishing more as Mayor, says Becker. Becker is meeting with residents and listening to their concerns and interests. He is also receiving calls on his Talk to John direct phone line at 604-465-4514 and via his new website at www.johnbecker.ca.