At YkOnline.ca, we’re trying to keep you informed and connected to the people who would like to have a hand in the building and operation of Yellowknife but in a light-hearted way. We sent around the following questions to each of the candidates for mayor and council asking for a written or video response. As each candidate responds we’ll post their answers. You can follow all the 2012 Municipal Election posts with the tag “yzfelec2012“.
Daniel Wong
Where do you volunteer and why?
As a board member of Ecology North for three years and active volunteer in the organization I know the City of Yellowknife is ready to lead the Northwest Territories down the path to a sustainable North. Recently I’ve participated in the annual Herc Pull fundraiser for Special Olympics and the Car-Free Day Rally held on September 20th. I’m also the Route Coordinator for the Multiple Sclerosis Walk in May 2013. Please mark thursday September 27 in your calender, there is an MS Volunteer Recruitment Drive for the walk at Javaroma from 7-9pm!
Volunteering is a great way to become to stronger Yellowknifer. It is a way share your knowledge and skills with others while further developing your leadership skills, meeting new people and even gaining new abilities.
What is the most embarrassing thing you’ve done in public?
I will answer this question honestly – after the election!
How will you communicate with residents, how will that be better than what is available now?
I’ve built a large following on Facebook, Twitter and my website. Many Yellowknifers, especially younger Yellowknifers, have chosen social media to engage politically and connect to the community. I am committed to using these tools to broadcast information out to residents, and respond to incoming concerns. As an effective social-media communicator I have the creativity and committment to upload a constant stream of quality content for followers, especially videos.
What do you have in your fridge?
Garden-grown vegetables, no dairy, no gluten. Some leftovers from One of a Thai, mmmmm. A piece of Arctic Char a from the Coppermine River last week marinating with crow and juniper berries.
How do people know you around town?
As the 18 year old who ran for territorial politics in 2003!
Where can you be found most often during the endless days in the summer?
With a canoe on my shoulders bombing down a buggy portage trail en route to another beautiful fishing spot. We truly live in the best place on earth.
Describe what the Harbour Plan is in plain english and why it is, or isn’t important.
The Harbour Plan means doing a better job of showcasing the big lake right beside Yellowknife. The Harbour Plan is immensely important because the lake is immensely awesome!
Have you worked with any of the other councilor candidates before?
I first met Lydia Bardack as a volunteer in the Dene Ko Day Shelter. Otherwise, I look forward to collaborating with the other candidates if elected to council. I know well the mayoral candidates Mark Heyck and Paul Falvo from prior community involvement.
What is your favourite winter activity?
The lit and well-groomed trails of the Yellowknife Ski Club bring magic and adventure to any dark winter night. As for machine-power, a good rip on the snowmobile never fails to get the blood flowing.
Are you a first generation Yellowknifer?
I am a second-generation Yellowknifer. My father Andy Wong moved to Yellowknife in 1979 and became a successful accountant and wonderful mentor to a young man passionate for a life of public service and politics.
Have you worked on councils or committee before?
I sat as a councilor for the Graduate Student Society at the University of British Columbia representing the Department of Political Science. I have committee experience from my time on Ecology North’s Transportation Issues Committee and my involvement in Green College, a graduate residential college at the UBC with a mandate to promote advanced interdisciplinary inquiry.
For more information on how to follow each of the candidates visit our Election 2012 Page.
