Well, another election cycle has come and gone.
And if I’m being honest, I’m disappointed in how some of our local candidates refused to engage during the provincial campaign. I’ve worked as a journalist for more than 20 years, and covered roughly a dozen elections across all three levels of government. I can still recall sitting down, as a college student, with then-premier Ernie Eves in a Belleville restaurant, back in the days when party leadership would welcome one-on-one and roundtable interviews with local media.
Now, just trying to get a riding candidate on the line for five minutes, or commit to an all-candidates meeting, is a tedious chore.
There are some pressing issues in the Barrie-Innisfil and York-Simcoe ridings that needed open discussion and many people running for office simply chose not to engage. I don’t exactly know why, though I have a few hunches. I will say it is a real shame that we've reached this point in the public discourse. It is a privilege to be considered for election by your peers, not a burden.
You deserve better, Bradford and Innisfil.
Here’s what’s happening in South Simcoe this weekend:
Drop in on Radiant Roots
Join Making Change on Saturday, March 1 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for Radiant Roots — A Black Cultural Expo. It’ll be held at the Innisfil ideaLAB and Library’s Lakeshore branch (967 Innisfil Beach Rd.). The family-friendly event will include vendors, food and crafts. Entertainment will be provided by DJ Maxx, and there will be face painting, balloon creations, and a Pan African Fashion Show on the main stage. Get more details at calendar.innisfil.ca.
Paws for Reading
Local students in grades 1 to 5 are invited to attend the BWG Leisure Centre (471 West Park Ave.) Saturday from 11 a.m. to noon to read with a four-legged friend. In this monthly reading program, children will have the chance to practice their skills with a St. John Ambulance therapy dog. This is perfect for readers who need a cute, non-judgmental listener. For further information, go to calendar.townofbwg.com.
Podcasting 101
Lead Podcasting founder Amanda Cupido teaches you tactics and approaches to help build confidence as an interviewer and podcast host. This event takes place at the BWG Leisure Centre Saturday from 1 to 2:30 p.m. To register, visit forms.office.com.
Got an upcoming event or news tip to share? Send it to us at [email protected].