Neil Craig

To the Residents of Pickering Ward 1, 

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It is my privilege to offer my strongest endorsement of James Blair for Pickering City Council, Ward 1. 

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I have known James for more than twenty-five years, first meeting him in the fall of 2000 when it quickly became evident that his passion for education, youth development, and community involvement extended far beyond the classroom. From the very beginning, James demonstrated a genuine commitment to students, not only as learners but as young people who benefit from mentorship, opportunity, and belonging. 

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Over the years, I have had the opportunity to work closely with James through his involvement in coaching both male and female rugby, as well as wrestling programs that helped shape the lives of many young athletes in our community. His approach has always been inclusive, supportive, and focused on ensuring that every student—regardless of ability or background— had a place to participate, grow, and succeed. 

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When James left Pine Ridge Secondary School in 2005 to take a position at Dunbarton High School, he demonstrated something that left a lasting impression on me: he kept his word and remained committed to the students and programs he had helped build. He continued to involve Pine Ridge students in the Dunbarton wrestling program and ensured that athletes he had previously coached in rugby were still welcomed and supported. He actively worked to maintain continuity for students during that transition, including integrating many Pine Ridge athletes into the Dunbarton Girls Rugby program and broader opportunities, including competitive travel experiences such as tournaments in Tennessee in 2005. 

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This level of commitment is rare. It demonstrated not only leadership, but integrity and a deep sense of responsibility to the young people he had coached and mentored. 

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Throughout the years, James has consistently focused on inclusion and opportunity. His work in sport has never been about competition alone—it has been about building confidence, discipline, teamwork, and respect among young people. He understands that extracurricular programs are often where students find their voice, develop leadership skills, and build lifelong friendships. In the fall of 2024, I had the opportunity to visit Dunbarton High School and witness firsthand the impact James continues to have. I observed a wrestling program with nearly fifty students— both male and female—actively participating, engaged, and motivated under his leadership. It was clear that James continues to inspire students at a high level, creating an environment where young people feel encouraged to try new things, challenge themselves, and be part of something meaningful. 

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James Blair is, above all, a community builder. Whether in the classroom, on the field, or in the wrestling room, he consistently demonstrates patience, leadership, and a genuine belief in the potential of every student. His ability to connect with young people and earn their trust is exceptional.

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Having worked in education and youth development for more than two decades myself, I recognize the qualities that truly make a difference. James possesses those qualities: consistency, integrity, empathy, and an unwavering commitment to youth success. He leads not for recognition, but because he genuinely cares about the development and well-being of the students and families he serves. 

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James has always been the students’ largest advocate. I have only ever known him to put students first, so I am confident that James Blair would bring the same dedication, fairness, and community-focused leadership to municipal government that he has demonstrated throughout his  career in education and athletics. He understands people, he understands community needs, and he understands how to bring individuals together toward shared goals. 

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For these reasons, I am proud to offer my full and unreserved endorsement of James Blair for Pickering Ward 1 City Council. I believe he will serve the residents of Pickering with the same integrity, energy, and commitment that he has shown for more than two decades in education and youth sport. 

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Sincerely, 

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Neil Craig 

Teacher, Pine Ridge Secondary School 

Coach & Youth Advocate, Pickering