Rochelle Hanson

By Rochelle Hanson

About to go grocery shopping? Wait. Before you leave the house, write a list.

“Oh, I don’t need a list, I know exactly what I need.”

Every time I say that to myself I most definitely regret it. Below you will find the top three reasons why you should take the time to write a list.

Save money. You enter the grocery store with it’s beautiful colours and enticing displays. Everything looks yummy. You’re tempted to buy more than you actually need. Thankfully you read this column, and you remembered to write a list. You’re a planner. You know exactly what you need for the next few meals, and you stick to buying those particular ingredients. You even took the extra step to write down the approximate costs of the items and a basic budget. You get to the checkout and there are no surprises. The impulse chocolate strategically calls out your name. You are stronger. You look away. Bravo, my fellow list writer. You just saved yourself some money. Pat yourself on the back and smile.

Save time. Lemons. Kale. Celery. Apples. You’re in. You’re out. Let’s go! That’s what it looks like when you write a list. You’re focused. It’s like having tunnel vision. There’s no song and dance at the cookie aisle. You don’t even see the cookie aisle. Taking five minutes to plan ahead can save you 30min in the store. You can use that extra time to do something fun or relaxing, like catching up on the latest blog at Simply Natural Ideas. I’m smiling as I write this. Let’s move on.

Stay healthy. You have goals for yourself. You’re on a journey to health and wellness. This is the true motivation for writing a list. If you keep the junk off the list, you keep the junk out of your house. If the junk is not is not in your house, you will have less opportunity to eat it. You are in control of your body. The junk food companies and the marketing corporations are not. Write a list. Stay healthy. I believe in you.

When you avoid making decisions on the fly, you save yourself a lot of hassle. You can apply this principle to every area of your life, not just grocery shopping. In the age of cell phones and fancy mobile devices, there is no reason why you shouldn’t take a few minutes to organize your thoughts. And if you don’t have a smart phone, use your own smarts. There’s nothing wrong with a pen and some paper. They still sell cute little note books at the dollar store. So the next time you have something to get done, whether it be grocery shopping or planning a party, stay ahead of the game and take the time to write a list.

Rochelle Hanson is a Freelance Writer and Natural Health Enthusiast, offering practical tips on natural health and wellness. For healthy recipes, motivational tips, and ideas on natural health, subscribe to her blog, Simply Natural Ideas, or connect with Rochelle on Facebook.

By Geena Lee

Have you ever been in a relationship with a jealous person? Or do you get jealous when you’re in a relationship? Sometimes feelings of jealousy creep up on you out of nowhere.  Maybe because your partner is still in touch with their ex, or when you’re out in public they get a lot of attention from ‘potential competition’, and it puts you on edge.  Or maybe it’s your partner that gets a bit antsy every time you talk to someone of the opposite sex, or decide to have a night out with your friends.  None of us are immune from the emotion of jealousy, but it’s something that we should be vigilant in avoiding, as it can ruin a relationship very quickly if allowed to fester.

The best way to get rid of jealousy is to get to the root of why you feel the way you do.  What are the triggers? Identify and nullify them. Let’s go back to the example of the ex.  Say your partner still talks to their ex, and that makes you uncomfortable.  You need to communicate that to them and find a solution.  If it’s not possible for them to stop talking to their ex, say because they have a child with them, then they need to be open with you about the nature of their contact.  If you know exactly what they’re talking about, (speakerphone is great for this) then you don’t have to entertain any jealous thoughts based on assumptions.  I know of couples who give each other the passwords to their phone, email, Facebook and Twitter accounts, so that there is complete transparency between them. Not everyone would feel comfortable doing this, but it’s an option in the quest to build trust.

Trust.  That’s really the issue with jealousy isn’t it?  Not trusting that your partner is truthful, faithful.  Not trusting that you are worthy of being truthful and faithful to.  Those who don’t trust, like to control.  If I can’t trust that you’ll be faithful to me, then I’ll make you be faithful.  What manifests out of that is a paranoia that poisons. Here comes the constant phone calls and texts with the “Where are you, who are you with? Why didn’t you call me back?” Then it’s the “Were you looking at her/him? You’re cheating on me aren’t you? Just admit it, I know you’re lying, you won’t look me in the eye!”… Yeah, not pretty.

Don’t feed the green-eyed monster, it will devour you eventually.  However, when it starts to lash its tail, don’t ignore it either.  If you find yourself getting jealous often in your relationship, it could be because there is a reason to be suspicious! Or maybe there is something your partner is deliberately doing to put you in a position of insecurity.  Some people like to use that emotion as a way of manipulation in order to keep a person attached to them. It’s an unhealthy way to orchestrate a relationship, and it’s bound to backfire eventually.

When it comes to jealousy, you really have to look at everything with a clear vision and evaluate whether you are just being too paranoid or if there’s a more sinister situation at play.  Trust your instincts, and if you have levelheaded friends, see if you can get an objective perspective.  Again, let your partner know how you’re feeling, because if someone loves you, they will do all they can to make sure you feel secure in that love.  We all come with a history of past hurts, so what may seem innocent to them, may be a red flag to you, so you have to find a common ground that you can both stand on.  Jealousy is a seed that you don’t want to water in a relationship, it’ll become a weed that will choke the life out of anything you grow together, so the minute you see it sprout, pluck it out!

DJ/producer/host of ‘The Lovezone with Geena Lee’ (www.geenalee.com), Geena is also a voice actor, media arts instructor and freelance writer.

By Samuel Getachew

It has been four years since Margarett Best was chosen by the residents of Scarborough-Guildwood as their member of Provincial Parliament.

To visit her riding office is to be impressed with the many idealistic young people, mostly visible minorities, who are trying to contribute to the betterment of their community. With an expected leadership opening with the Ontario Liberals in mere years, she remains a visible candidate to replace her leader. Sway caught up with the super busy woman of many titles recently.

SG: Ms Best – You have been an MPP for the last four years. Looking back, what were some of your achievements?

Best: The service which I have provided to my constituents of Scarborough-Guildwood and the respectful relationships I have fostered with them. Equally important is my role in bringing to fruition the following important initiatives in Scarborough-Guildwood. Some of our achievements are the expansion and renovation in the East Scarborough Storefront facilities to serve youth: the entire facility was designed with input from youth ambassadors from Kingston-Galloway and Orton Park and the rehabilitation and expansion of The Boys and Girls Club of East Scarborough among many notable achievments.

Most would agree Ontario is one of the more diverse provinces compared to others. Why do you think we have less diversity at Queens Park?

The Ontario Liberal Party is very diverse: from Ministers Office staff, our Constituency Offices, Interns and MPPs, we represent the spectrum of Ontario’s cultural communities: from across the African diaspora and beyond. This includes women and the LGBT community and individuals with varying abilities, we represent all of our constituents certainly.

There is more to do; thus it is important for us to continue our work as Liberals, to move this agenda forward. I am pleased with the range of Ontario Liberal candidates who are on board for our upcoming October 6th election date and as an African-Canadian, I certainly take pleasure in welcoming Mr. Michael Coteau, the Liberal Candidate in Don Valley East. There are also 40 women candidates on the ballot for the Liberals for the upcoming election.

There are many reasons that makes one join a political party. What is / are your reason(s)?

I identify strongly with the values of the Liberal Party of Ontario concerning families, education, jobs, maintaining a sustainable, modern and efficient health care system, access to services needed to achieve a better quality of life and respect for cultural diversity and Pierre Elliott Trudeau was one of my heroes.

What has surprised you most about politics?

Politics is in my DNA and I absolutely love the work that I do as a politician.

It has been seven years since the Liberals formed government in Ontario under the Hon Dalton McGuinty. Why does he deserve yet another chance to form the next Ontario government?

Dalton McGuinty and the Ontario Liberal party have worked diligently for Ontario since our first mandate in 2003, making tough decisions in tough times. We have made tremendous progress but certainly recognize that there is more to do.

Here are some of the results which show how Ontario as Canada’s most populous province is leading on many fronts: Ontario has the best-educated workforce in the world – 64 per cent of adults have completed postsecondary education, putting us ahead of all 34 OECD countries; The number of students in Grades 3 and 6 meeting the provincial standard is up 14 percentage points and graduation rates have risen from 68 to 79 per cent.  We have made room for 200,000 students in our colleges, universities and apprenticeship programs.  The recession took 257,000 jobs from us, however, we have regained 278,000.

Since 2003, we have invested $62 billion in infrastructure – more than the last two governments combined.

As a Minister, you have had many public achievements. What one achievement are you most proud of and why?

Investments in Amateur Sports and having “Sport” added to the name of the Ministry, which took effect in August 2010. The Ministry of Health Promotion and Sport’s Smoke Free Ontario Strategy and Smoke Free Ontario Act is one of the most comprehensive anti-smoking initiatives in North America and since the act was enacted, Ontario has seen the following results: the reduction of reduction of tobacco consumption by 32 per cent in 4 years; 4.6 billion fewer cigarettes smoked. the protection of children from smoking in vehicles, the banning of the display of tobacco products in stores and have a 95 per cent compliance rate, the restriction of the sale of cigarillos to packs of 20 and banned flavoured cigarillos, which target children and the building on the strategy with $5 million investment to prevent youth from smoking as we tackle contraband.

You have one of the most diverse ridings in Ontario. What are some of the leading issues?

Healthcare, youth and seniors issues, programs and services for immigrants and racialized communities are some of the major issues in Scarborough-Guildwood. The gains I mentioned previously with respect to programming in the riding with the East Scarborough Storefront, The Boys and Girls Club of East Scarborough, Scarborough Women’s Centre and South Asian Family Support Services, Momiji Health Care Society and the Scarborough Village Community Centre are some of the resources available to address those issues.

We also have the issue of after-school initiative which is up and running at eight sites and to the benefit of 479 children across the riding, full day kindergarten in 21 schools as of September 2012 which is a respite to parents of 1,762 students benefitting from the program.

When it comes to seniors and healthcare, our government has made significant investments in the Scarborough Village Community Center. As of March 2011, at Rouge Valley Health System (RVHS), Centenary Site, 85 percent of emergency department (ED) patients were treated within the provincial targets of four hours for patients with minor/uncomplicated conditions and eight hours for patients with complex or serious conditions.

Since the province started measuring wait times in 2008, the RVHS Centenary Site has been able to reduce its ED wait times by 5.5 hours (40 percent), thanks in part to our government’s effort to reduce ED wait times.

Any parting words?

I am looking forward to continuing to serve my constituents for four more years under the leadership of the Premier, the Honourable Dalton McGuinty

Photo courtesy of The Toronto Star

By Samuel Getachew

Lance Armstrong once reflected on cancer by saying, “If children have the ability to ignore all odds and percentages, then maybe we can all learn from them. When you think about it, what other choice is there but to hope? We have two options, medically and emotionally: give up, or fight like hell”.

Fight like hell was what the late Jack Layton did. At only 61 years old, he died earlier today from  cancer, which also claimed his beloved father at around the same age a generation ago. When he was diagnosed a year and a half ago, he promised he would fight and beat it like his father, former Progressive Conservative cabinet minister, Robert Layton. Ultimately, his courageous fight became shorter than anyone expected.

Less than a month ago, when he announced a temporary leave of absence from active politics, many Canadians paid a personal tribute to the giant he has become. Literally, thousands of Canadians reflected on the conversations they had with the Leader of the NDP at their corner stores, on their doorsteps, at the airport and in many other areas of Canada.

I had my first conversation with him when he was a candidate for the leadership of the NDP in 2003 at Carleton University. He was very unknown then. He was the grassroots leader who was just endorsed by former NDP Leader Ed Broadbent at the objection of his wife. Even superstar former Barenaked Ladies lead singer, Steven Page had become an outspoken supporter. Jack was the candidate that was expected to lose to one of the deans of the House of Commons, the respected Bill Blaike.

Not only did he win, but he also inspired many Canadians to be engaged to a political process that has neglected them for many years. It took Canadians some time to warm up to him, but he worked day in and day out to ensure his passion became as mainstream as he could. After all, how could progressive issues like human rights, and caring for the environment not be one. In a party that always looked back for inspiration, he was very modern and forward in his leadership style.

I had an extensive conservation with him at a fundraiser in Hull a few years back. He spoke to me for about two minutes and asked me if I had a napkin. When I pulled out one, he wrote his personal cell number and told me to call him so that we could allow the conversation to continue. On many occasions, I did just that. I called him when I had issues with the NDP as well as when I did have an event I was a part of in the Ethiopian Canadian community in Toronto.

At the event I invited him to, he always came with books he had written and always spoke highly of the hopes and dreams of our newest Canadians. When I spoke to him, he never asked me if I was a member of the NDP, which I was not, nor did he patronize me in any way. It was perhaps the first time that I had an adult conversation with a national leader. He seemed to have understood a citizenship dream that is bigger than oneself or a political party.

In his last letter to Canadians, he eloquently spoke of ” love that is bigger than anger, hope that is better than fear, optimism that is better than despair”. He continued by encouraging us to be loving, hopeful and optimistic. That he said could “change the world”. Then again, how can it not? That is the message he took to Canadians mere months ago and in return, they gave him the biggest electoral success in the party’s history. Like Terry Fox before him, his words and deeds will live on in the hearts and minds of all Canadians.

He will be missed!

Aries (March 21-April 19)

Feeling like folks are getting annoyed by you? Do the check list and ask yourself ‘what could I be doing differently in order to get a better response?’ Perhaps it could be a matter of you just relaxing and going with the flow. On the flip side, the issue could be with them instead of you.

Taurus (April 20- May 20)

Do not be surprised when somebody tries to attack your character without any warning first. It is quite possible they are jealous of you. So be aware, remain refined and go with the flow. Do not give anybody any reason to smuck your name.

Gemini (May 21- June 20)

A friend will want to celebrate life and have a good time. Go and chill with them. They really do not need anything for fun but a lil’ music, laughter and a good time.

Cancer (June 21- July 22)

You will feel less pressure if you begin to accept stressful situations as learning curves which will mature you, and do not dwell things for too long.

Leo (July 23- August 22)

Before you move into a direction which is unpredictable and may cause hardship, first sit back and think. Ponder the benefit you will gain from your actions. If it is not worth the struggle, then why invest your energy?

Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

Do not settle for second best when you know you are worthy of more. Live for your happiness and peace of mind. Do not allow folks who are living an undesirable lifestyle to affect you. Stay strong minded, but kind hearted.

Libra (September 23- October 22)

Feeling stuck and unfulfilled? Alter the course of direction in your plans a slight bit, and you will see things start to flourish in a different, more desirable fashion within two weeks.

Scorpio (October 23- November 21)

Do not put yourself on a level where you do not shine. Rise up from the darkness and show how brilliant your aura is in the light.

Sagittarius (November 22- December 21)

It is okay to make blunders. What makes it not okay is how hard you are on yourself afterwards. When you mess up, do not beat yourself up. Simply forgive yourself and move on. You are perfectly imperfect like most, if not all, things in life.

Capricorn (December 22- January 19)

You are capable of doing so much more and you know it, but don’t stress yourself and others by talking about it. Just keep your mind on your goal and your eye on your mark. You will find contentment.

Aquarius (January 20- February 18)

When friends and family try to get close to you yet continue to disregard your wishes, do not get frustrated. Do your own thing and eventually folks will get it that you are not putting up with their ignorance.

Pisces (Feb 19- March 20)

Smile and be proud. Do not allow negative or insecure thoughts to disturb your mental equilibrium, and you will not add stress to your week or your body.

To book a private-one-to-one session, please contact Cerise. www.cerisefairfax.com | (416) 722-5233 | email[email protected] |www.facebook.com/cerisefairfax | www.twitter.com/cerisefairfax |

By Samuel Getachew

At only 29 years old, Dionne Coley is a dream candidate by any standard. Young, talented, educated and ambitious, she was recently nominated as a candidate for the NDP in Etobioke – Lakeshore. Sway caught up with the lawyer and law professor turned aspiring politician recently.

SG: Dionne – Congratulations on your nomination – Why the NDP?

Coley: I am honored to stand shoulder to shoulder with men and women across Etobicoke-Lakeshore, the GTA and Ontario promoting change that puts people first. I believe that pursuing partnerships among individuals, community agencies and government to strengthen the tapestry of our interconnectivity is a MUST. The NDP has positively stood on the right side of history in standing for social justice. It is my pleasure to stand with the NDP to ensure working families and individuals for that matter are heard and have a voice at Queens Park.

You have an impressive background in law and public service. Please share with us your experience?

I am a licensed attorney in the State of New York and I anticipate being called to the Ontario Bar this September. I have experience in legal advocacy from working at a district attorney’s office, a criminal law firm and the appellate defender where I argued my first case in the appellate division. The best part of my law school years was spent mentoring youth in a diversion program from the criminal justice system.

My campaign run in the last municipal elections (2010) for Toronto District School Board Trustee displayed my true passion for education and the community. I am a professor of law and legal studies and currently in the process of writing two books geared towards helping students study the law. It is an absolute joy to mentor my students beyond the classroom. I also have experience in missions work as a humanitarian in South Africa. I continue to further my passion for missions as I am completing a Masters in Divinity in Bible College.

As a member of the Ontario Bar, you will soon join an exclusive club that lacks diversity as much as the lack of diversity that still exists in elected office in Ontario. Why do you think elected office and, for that matter, the legal profession are a great way to contribute to the betterment of our province and ultimately country?

Both elected office and working within a legal setting are privileges which require a consistently grounded view of one’s self. The time has come for change in which we can hear the voices of everyday Ontarians speaking, as opposed to career politicians. I enter this election knowing well in advance that it (the election) is NOT about me. It is about being a Voice For Change. It is about being a voice that everyday Ontarians can identify with. Whether it is serving constituents or clients within a legal setting, it is forever my objective to stay actively listening and actively engaged.

With a true love for litigation, I am eager to lead and argue the case for making life affordable for Ontarians. Is life more affordable for you whether you live in Toronto or Thunder Bay? The answer is No. How does the current government justify taxing hydro and home heating? There’s just no excuse. I want to work with businesses and individuals to get Ontario where it needs to be. We get there by rewarding job creators, putting a stop to the corporate tax giveaways and lowering small business taxes.

You are part of  the NDP team that is led by a woman, Andrea Horwath.  If she is successful, she will become the first woman Premier of Ontario. That would be rare. Is it important to take that in to consideration or are we, as a society, way passed that era?

Electing Andrea Horwath as the next premier of Ontario is the route to take to ensure a Tim Hudak government isn’t going to saddle the most vulnerable Ontarians with policies that are designed to falter. We have to remember the cuts that took place under a Conservative Harris government—a government that Mr. Hudak was a part of.

Who can forget Ontario’s more recent history with eight years of Liberal rule under Dalton McGuinty? Mr. McGuinty and the Liberal team campaign mirroring the NDP and govern like the Conservatives. Again, you’ve got to ask yourself—has life gotten any better for you over this time period? It probably hasn’t with the taxes you must now hand over to the government so you can keep the lights on and heat your home. Anyone choosing to vote for the Andrea Horwath NDP team should do so on the merit of Andrea, their local MPP Candidate, and the policies of the Party. It is a great day all across the world when women get involved in political life. We should definitely celebrate the accomplishments made by Andrea regardless of gender. However, it brings pleasure to me to see that women are taking on the responsibility of government and blazing a trail for young women across the world to discover.

What are some of your signature ideas you would hope to bring to the House if you indeed became an MPP?

During my 2010 campaign run for Toronto District School Board Trustee, I developed a platform that emphasized leadership, community empowerment, life skill approaches and mentorship which are the hallmark of my political journey.

As MPP, I plan to promote these educational initiatives as well as an equal access to educational resources approach with “no child being left behind”. The NDP is the Party that promotes this initiative and recognizes that there is a disparity in the allocation of these resources—a reality based on factors as trivial as the area you may happen to live in.

Any Parting Words?

The NDP represents Change that Puts People First. The simple truth is that our government has let us down – and continues to let us down. It’s time to use the frustration we are feeling as a motivating tool to make things happen for Ontarians in terms of affordability, education, health care and I plead, in terms of our government recognizing our worth as the hard-working tax payer instead of continuously leaving us behind in an agenda that serves “some” of us.

We presently have two levels of misguided right of centre ideological government – the people of Ontario need a New Democratic government to counter balance a Conservative agenda of one-size-fits all governance. We can do this, but ONLY as a collective movement! Join me in this Evolution of Change! I need you and look forward to making it happen.

My email is [email protected], my facebook is “Dionne Coley Vote NDP“ and our website is ELNDP.com.

I look forward to Seeing You on the Campaign Trail!

Break news and debate about the issues that matter in your community through the Speak Your Mind website, convened by thestar.com.

Speak Your Mind will be a forum for commentary, debate and conversation around the key topics driving the Fall provincial election.

Candidates will be assessed based on a mix of the following three criteria:

Your “reach”, meaning the size of the online network you can bring into conversation, will also be taken into consideration as well as the number of pieces you expect to produce, and how active you expect to be in the community.

Click here to apply. Connect with Speak Your Mind Canada on Facebook.

Rochelle Hanson

By Rochelle Hanson

There comes a point in everyone’s life where death smacks you right in the face. Last week in this column, I teased you all a bit by saying you should lighten up. But when you’re dealing with a serious issue like death, letting go of the pain is much easier said than done. Whether it’s a parent, a child, extended family or a friend, death is something that deeply affects us all.

I’m not a psychologist, but I know what it feels like to loose a loved one.  Coping with a loss is never easy, and every single loss is different. In my own personal life, I’ve experienced the loss of four individual family members. All of whom I loved dearly. During those times I developed some strategies to cope with it all.

Why am I bringing this up right now? Because there isn’t a moment that somebody somewhere around the world isn’t struggling with loss. Chances are that person may need encouragement. Chances are that person could be you. I don’t believe you are reading this column by mistake. Below you will find the two basic strategies on how to cope with loss.

Allow yourself to feel. When my grandfather on my father’s side passed away, nobody saw it coming. We knew he had some health issues, but he was fine, or so we thought. I remember getting a phone call from my dad at work, telling me that my grandfather was in the hospital. A few hours later, before the work day was even finished, my grandfather passed away.

At his funeral, I took tons of pictures. Pictures of everything from the plane ride to the flowers to the family members and even the burial. I remember my oldest brother asking me why I was doing this. For me, the pictures were an expression of my pain. Almost like I was forcing myself to accept the reality that was before my eyes.

When pain enters our lives, especially when it’s sudden, we have the tendency to shut down. The pain of loosing a loved one can be so intense that blocking it out can seem like the easiest way to function. If you notice that this is happening in your life, make a conscious effort to process and digest what is happening. You need to allow yourself time and space to feel if you want to heal.

Allow yourself to move on. Out of all the losses I’ve experience to date, losing my Auntie Cheryl was the hardest. To be honest, I haven’t completely gotten over her death, but I have reached the point where I don’t have to focus on it regularly. Loosing Auntie Cheryl was long and painful and very difficult to watch. When she was alive, we would spend hours talking together on the phone; we were very close. The moments surrounding her death were some of the hardest in my life. Even now, I’m in tears as I write this because the memories are coming up fresh in my mind. I used to keep a big picture of Auntie Cheryl up in my room. About six months ago, I took the picture down. That was my way of saying to myself, ok Rochelle, that’s enough now, it’s time to move on.

Even after we allow ourselves to feel, we have to accept that there is a time when the constant grieving needs to stop. Grief is like a cycle that revisits us over and over for as long as we allow it to. If you let yourself get depressed, how will you live?

There are people in your life right now who need you and love you. Don’t forget about them. Yes, give yourself the time to feel, and when the memories come back to your mind, it’s ok to shed a tear. But know and believe that the person you are crying for would never want you to be sad. Use your pain as fuel for positivity. What do you think motivates me to keep going on my healthy journey? In this life, we are given only so much time. Make the choice to use it wisely.  Now is the time to live.

Rochelle Hanson is a Freelance Writer and Natural Health Enthusiast, offering practical tips on natural health and wellness. For healthy recipes, motivational tips, and ideas on natural health, subscribe to her blog, Simply Natural Ideas, or connect with Rochelle on Facebook.

Tyrone Benskin

By Samuel Getachew

It has been mere months since the New Democratic Party scored its best electoral success under the leadership of the Hon. Jack Layton. The province of Quebec is where the NDP had its best result, winning 58 seats over the lone seat it held pre-election.

As the leader steps aside temporarily to fight a newly discovered cancer, Sway catches up with Tyrone Benskin, one of those NDP Quebec MP’s that benefited from the great historic efforts of the NDP as he reflects on his beloved leader and the controversial new temporary leader, Nycole Turmel.

SG: Congratulations on your great win. What has surprised you most about the position since you were elected?

Benskin: I don’t think I am so much surprised as excited. I think the biggest surprise, if any, was the feeling of awe stepping into the House of Commons for the first time and taking my seat. As far as the position itself, I am excited to already be working on some of the issues facing my constituents as well as the pride. I am energized by the passion they and the organizations they represent bring to the table in an effort to make their lives and their communities better.

Why the NDP?

I joined the NDP quite simply because I found that the values that make up the core of the NDP platform were really in line with my own – from a human perspective. Although it is a political party, the NDP still manages to focus on what is important to people and not simply for political gain. That was important to me as a candidate and it is important to me as a public servant.

You are the new critic of Canadian heritage for the NDP. What are some of the areas you would want to focus on and what changes will you be proposing?

The cultural portfolio is a sizable one. I think it is imperative that a government recognizes the importance of the cultural sector – of course economically, but more importantly its value to Canadians and the expression of their identity. As an artist, I am keenly aware of how difficult it is to function in an environment of uncertainty. As The Official Opposition Heritage Critic, I will make that importance clear to this government.

It is vital that there be a focus on stabilizing the sector with permanent investment in Canada’s extraordinary arts organizations, as well as a film and TV industry second to none. We need to build a reason for our talented artists and technicians to stay here in Canada and give them an opportunity to build home-grown careers. Also, tax averaging for artists is an issue that has been a long time on the agenda but little has happened. This is an important element to aiding and supporting our artists. The Conservatives need to stop undermining the efforts of Canada’s arts and cultural sector and start working with it.

Let us focus on your leader, the Hon. Jack Layton. I am sure you were shocked by his new battle like all Canadians. Tell us about Mr. Layton and the person and personality you have known over the years.

Jack Layton, like for so many of us, is a source of inspiration and leadership to me. I had the pleasure of meeting with Jack over the last eight or so years through the advocacy work I was doing. I have come to know him as a strong, passionate and dedicated individual and have every ounce of faith that he will not only beat this cancer, but will be back to lead us to the first ever NDP government in Canada.

Tell us about the new interim leader of the NDP Nycole Turmel and why you think she would be a great interim leader of the official party of Canada?

Nycole Turmel is a dynamic leader, and I’m looking forward to working with her. She is doing an excellent job helping our caucus prepare for the fall session. She was the unanimous choice by the caucus and federal council as she has played a leadership role in the party. Like Jack Layton when he became leader, Turmel has proven success leading a major pan-Canadian organization – she was the first woman to lead the Public Service Alliance of Canada.

She is ready to help the New Democrat team take on the Conservatives and get results on issues like pensions, health care and making life more affordable for Canadian families. I am confident the rest of Canada will soon discover what Quebecers have known for years – Nycole Turmel is a strong and dynamic leader.

Any parting words?

Thank you for the opportunity to share some of my thoughts with you and your readers. I am looking forward to hearing theirs.

By Samuel Getachew

Ontario Green Party Leader Mike Schreiner, describes Judith Van Veldhuysen, his candidate in St. Paul’s as a leader who is ”committed to making a positive difference in her community, listening to the needs of her neighbours and working hard on delivering sensible, long-term solutions”. Sway caught up with the first-time determined candidate as she was campaigning door-to-door in her posh riding in the heart of Toronto.

SG: Why the Green Party of Ontario?

Veldhuysen: I joined the Green Party because it’s the only party with a platform that fully aligns with my values – strong communities, real democracy and sustainable health.

Most identify the Green Party of Ontario exclusively with the environment. Why do you think that is and please share with us some of the policies of the Greens in Ontario?

The Green Party has always had a strong commitment to the environment. For this reason we are usually only covered in the media in terms of environmental issues. However, we believe the best way to create a brighter future for the generations to come is to focus on all issues.

The Green Party has a full and diverse platform with a holistic approach to governing. We believe that we must ensure we have sustainable economic social and environmental planning moving forward. Our platform is designed to be sustainable not just for an election cycle but for several generations. The Green Party has a clear plan for creating 21^st century jobs, harnessing affordable energy, promoting sustainable health, feeding our communities locally, and delivering a government that works for the people.

I am aware that you have just been promoted to a critical position for the party. Please share with us what it is and tell us what qualities and ideas you bring to the particular position?

Last week I was asked to join the Green Party’s shadow cabinet in the role of Women’s Issues critic.  The role requires that I help to develop and disseminate the party’s policy positions on issues affecting women.

Women of all ages and backgrounds are facing hardships, and there are some major disparities that I would like to see corrected – issues of poverty, access to adequate health care, affordable housing and child care to name a few.  I’d like to see a fundamental change in the way we care for our children and participate in our communities. Overall we need better support systems for women, led by women. And the best way to start is by becoming more politically involved. We need more female representation at Queen’s Park so that our voices can be heard.

Tell us about the leader of the party, Mike Schreiner, and why you believe he is the best person to be Premier?

Mike Schreiner is the most honest politician I’ve ever met, and he’s the reason why I joined the Green Party.  His sincerity and genuine concern for Ontarians is exactly what the province needs.

Mike Schreiner is the best person for the job of Premier because he’s willing to roll up his sleeves and do the heavy lifting.  He’s already met with thousands of residents across the province so he could hear first hand what issues are most affecting our communities.  Mike Schreiner’s willingness to go the extra distance is exactly what this province needs.

Most find the Green Party movement lacking diversity and I am aware that this is changing with great citizens such as yourself and even with the Deputy Leader of the National Green Party, Georges Larques. Share with us your experience.

I would argue that all of the parties are still quite lacking in diversity.  One of the comments I heard after the federal debates was: “it was just 3 old guys talking for an hour”. And this reminded me again of how most people don’t see themselves reflected in our MPs and MPPs.  After hearing this, I was more reassured than ever before that I am doing the right thing by running for office.  I need to prove that there is a place for female minorities in the political arena – it’s not just an old boys club.  Canada has an incredibly diverse population, one that I’m proud to be a part of, and we need to have more culture and gender diversity at Queen’s Park.

When I introduce myself as a candidate for the Green Party of Ontario most people are pleasantly surprised.  They feel encouraged to see a young female representing their community.  I’ve been met with tremendous support and words of encouragement.  I think the province of Ontario, and especially the residents of St. Paul’s are ready for a change, and I’m just the change they’re looking for.

If you were to be an MPP after the October election – what are some of the signature issues you are hoping to bring to Queen’s Park?

High on my list of priorities is health promotion, child care reform and conservation.  We have to start thinking outside of the box in order to find long term solutions to these issues. Building strong communities, humanizing poverty, and improving transit, will go a long way towards elevating the living standards of all voters.

Any parting words?

My goal is to bring the Green Party’s message to as many people as possible.  I’m committed to changing the way people traditionally view politics.  Everyone needs to play an active role in shaping our futures. So why not start today?