The Toronto Star Picks Gord Perks Today - So I Spoke to Andrew Phillips, Editor to Ask Why?

When today's article came out, I realized why I needed to push harder to win the election. https://www.thestar.com/opinion/editorials/2018/10/15/these-are-the-city-builders-that-toronto-needs.html

Firstly, as a mid-career woman who has worked in public, private, not-for-profit sectors and in government, and have spent my entire career serving Canadians and/or co-creating solutions to make life better for Canadians and who now wants to serve the residents of Ward 4 on City Council - I am so disappointed in The Editorial Board. Phillips says that they picked Gord, "because he has been good to us and the community, he is the only incumbent in the new Ward and his ideas align with ours." He then confirms, "When we like an incumbent we go with them...so no we did not explore the credentials of any other candidate in Ward 4... that's just the way it is."

What could I do other than share my disappointment and provide feedback that before writing the article, at least one Editor should have attended one of the town halls rather than negating the efforts of all other 9 candidates. The Editorial Board shared its opinion but this is not news - this is favourtism based on long-standing relationships without any information or evidence regarding the other Candidates - in a world where 'fake news' and mysogyny is rampant - well Ward 4 residents, you have a choice - go with The Toronto Star's Candidate because he is the incumbent or Vote for the Change You Need!

Here is some Ward 4 resident feedback that I received in the past two weeks:

Regarding my understanding of Section 37, "Thank you for a most well thought out response... I am most impressed  with your understanding of the issue and with your realistic solution oriented thinking."

Regarding my solutions for a range of issues facing the residents living in a condo tower, "Thank you for your detailed response. You are the first candidate to respond and I have shared with our residents.  To be honest at the debate only you and Gord Perks knew what you were talking about, the others making vague generalities,  but like Coun Doucette they have had ample time to address these issues and we have seen no action in our area. Thank you again for your response and good luck!"

Regarding me posting Vote Compass on front web page to determine who you align with, "I was frustrated trying to understand the interests and positions of the candidates in Ward 4. Then in my list gleaned from the web I looked up you (third in my list) and clicked on the link to votecompass you were so kind and progressive to include in your website. THANK YOU! I did the survey and guess what. You're my candidate!"

Regarding my performance at the 1st Debate hosted by Bloor West Village Residents Association at Runnymede United Church on Oct 10th, "You were so articulate, clearly a professional and took command of the room and you were so gracious despite the microphone issues - you did a great job stating your policy positions and your experience came through clearly."

Regarding my position on the IATSE lock out, "Thank you for your prompt response. I appreciate your time taken to respond. You can count on my vote."

As someone who has dedicated my entire career to serving Torontonians, Ontarians, Canadians and beyond - I understand, 'this is just the way it is' but I will keep focused on winning this election for Ward 4 residents so that we have new solution-focused leadership that TAKES ACTION to promote healthy and safe communities, keep our streets and transit moving, ensure affordable housing, bolster our local businesses, and protect our parks and preserve our heritage!