Margarita

To Whom It May Concern,

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It is with great pleasure that I offer my wholehearted endorsement of James Blair as a candidate for Pickering City Council, Ward 1. 

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I have had the privilege of knowing James for over 20 years as a colleague at Dunbarton High School.  During that time, I have worked alongside him as a fellow educator, coached with him, and shared many experiences that have allowed me to witness his exceptional leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment to our students and community. 

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As a teacher, James has always put students first. He believes in helping every student reach their full potential, both inside and outside the classroom. His genuine care, compassion, and ability to connect with young people have earned him the respect of students, parents, and colleagues alike. 

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As a coach of the Dunbarton High School girls' rugby team, James inspired countless student-athletes to believe in themselves, work as a team, and strive for excellence. I had the opportunity to travel with him to Tennessee to coach girls' rugby, where I saw firsthand his ability to motivate young people, build lasting relationships, and represent our school and community with pride and professionalism. 

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One of James's most remarkable qualities is his creativity and vision. He has always looked for innovative ways to expand students' learning beyond the classroom. A perfect example was his leadership in organizing an unforgettable educational exchange with students from Nunavut through YMCA Canada.  James helped coordinate a meaningful trip to Nunavut that provided students with a unique opportunity to learn about Indigenous culture, build friendships, and broaden their perspectives. He also played a key role in hosting students from Nunavut here in Pickering, creating lasting connections between our communities and providing experiences that enriched everyone involved. 

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James has an extraordinary ability to bring people together. Throughout his career, he has organized countless activities that engaged students while strengthening connections within the broader community. Whether collaborating with the Community Food Bank, Durham Regional Police Service, local organizations, or the feeder schools to Dunbarton High School, James consistently built partnerships that benefited students and fostered a strong sense of community. He understands that meaningful change happens when people work together, and he has dedicated his career to making those connections possible. 

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His leadership is built on integrity, compassion, and service. James listens to people, values different perspectives, and has a natural ability to unite individuals around a common goal. These are qualities that are essential in an effective municipal leader. 

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I have no doubt that James Blair will bring the same passion, innovation, and collaborative leadership to Pickering City Council that he has demonstrated throughout his career as an educator, coach, and community builder. Ward 1 deserves a representative who is committed to serving others, finding practical solutions, and bringing people together to make our community even stronger. 

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I offer my strongest endorsement of James Blair for Pickering City Council, Ward 1, and encourage residents to support his candidacy. I am confident that he will serve the people of Pickering with honesty, dedication, and a genuine commitment to building a vibrant and inclusive community.

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Sincerely, 

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Margarita Filinov 

Teacher, Dunbarton High School Coach & Youth Advocate, Pickering