Ward 10 Forum.

I biked to Don's ward 10 forum tonight with Sable and Leanne! We were later joined by Marilyn and Dan as well, but by then it was too dark for photos. This photo was taken after we arrived and I had to take off my trench, gloves, scarf, and blazer so I could ventilate before entering the school's theatre where the forum was taking place.

Here is Leanne during the ride while we were on a multi-use trail.

And Sable on her foldy while we were riding through a neighbourhood (Lendrum) that has recently had all its roads re-paved. Soooo smooth. Our ride over was actually really lovely, it was just paths and neighbourhoods all the way.

Ah, there is Pashley's loop frame, as viewed from above.

Gloves are a must in this fall weather.

Leanne likewise takes off layers too. She usually clips her helmet into her shoulder bag. I usually leave mine in the basket.

Once inside we saw Lisa handing out our literature!

Sable helped too.

Don gave his opening remarks.

I spied Nielsen in the crowd.

And this adorable old man who used his hand to amplify his hearing.

After two hours of answering questions, we mingle.

While Don continues to have discussions with constituents.

Raffaella shoots me shooting her.

Then we rode over to The Bothy to decompress and debrief with volunteers. Don is on his iPhone reading the press.

Lisa waits for a drink.

Commiserating.

My BLT with salad that featured truffle oil in the dressing. Really, really good.

Me and Fella.

Go team Iveson!

And that was an evening of politics, friends/volunteers, good food and drink, and bikes. We have less than a week of crazy campaigning left so little opportunities like this, spent appreciating one and other, are valuable.

As for the forum, I thought Don rocked it! There were some individuals who arrived without clear questions, but instead had a lot of preamble that was in some cases ill-informed, argumentative, disrespectful, and frankly, pretty rude. However, I saw these instances as an opportunity for Don. He displayed his aptitude for the job and used facts, examples, information, and clear expression to answer even the questions.

I've found the forum recorded online, feel free to have a listen if this sort of thing excites you:)

I am very proud of my husband. Not just because he's my husband, but because he is one of the best candidates out there, regardless of which ward we're talking about. I think the city is lucky to have him as a current councillor and those who want to address him in a manner that is not befitting of the respect he deserves? They, unfortunately, make themselves look shameful in the process of hurling accusations. And they must not understand how much hard work Don puts into his job. It's a sacrifice for him and for our family, but we carry on because we believe in building this city so it can be great for our kids.

In any case, the point is that I thought Don was excellent at the forum and I'm proud to say he is my husband!