TAKING THE STAGE.
Justin Trudeau talks to Muskokans personally on his way to the stage at the Bracebridge Sportsplex on Friday, Feb. 15.
Photo by Jennifer Bowman
BRACEBRIDGE - Celebrity politician Justin Trudeau thrilled a Muskoka audience at the Bracebridge Sportsplex on Friday, Feb. 15 with his vision for Canada.
More than 300 crowded into the Bracebridge Sportsplex to listen to Trudeau’s platform in the federal Liberal leadership race.
His speech on hope, a Canada united in its focus, and a government of service supported by its grassroots was interspersed with loud applause, nods and the flash of cameras. He emphasized he is not living in his father’s shadow and said he wants every area of Canada to be represented by electing all officials instead of appointing them.
“If this riding starts clamoring, as I know you will, for more gazebos, you will get them,” Trudeau told the audience.
Amongst the visionary speech and promises, he put some of the responsibility back on Canadians.
“We need to expect better, demand more, from communities and leaders, but mostly to demand more of ourselves,” Trudeau said.
On his way to the stage before the presentation, the celebrity shook hands with a hungry audience, autographed memorabilia from papers to mugs, and calmed an upset child.
His speech ended with a French farewell drowned out by a cheering audience and followed by a presentation to Trudeau of two photos of his first trip to Muskoka in 1974 and a crate of goods from the Muskoka Brewery.
For more, see next week’s Bracebridge Examiner (Feb. 20).