HAL’S HEADLINES: We shouldn’t have part-time politicians

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MLAs and their side hustles got plenty of attention over on Broadway this week. First, on Monday, the NDP gave Fort Garry’s Mark Wasyliw the boot because he refused to give up his legal clients. Wasyliw and Premier Wab Kinew obviously don’t like each other and there’s lots going on there, most of which we’ll likely never know. But I think the conversation about politicians carrying on with their careers after being elected to office is a good one. Then, on Thursday, Manitoba’s ethics commissioner said a New Democrat cabinet minister was wrong not to disclose a business contract with the province. Ian Bushie who represents Keewatinook says he’ll sell the gas bar and convenience store at the centre of the controversy. An MLA makes a base salary of $106,603. Surely that’s enough to give up any part-time positions and focus on doing a great job for the people who voted you in. And if it’s not, then maybe you should have just stuck with your original line of work. I see elected office as a calling. If you’re called to do it, and do it properly, you shouldn’t have any extra time for a gig on the side. If you ask me, it’s simple. Just be the best MLA, MP or city councillor you can be for a term or two and then if you’re any good at your original line of work, that career should be happy to have you back.

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SAVING LAKE WINNIPEG

As someone who’s lucky enough to own property on Lake Winnipeg, I really hope this latest effort to save the body of water is successful. Indigenous groups have filed a statement of claim in Court of King’s Bench against the province and Manitoba Hydro. I would have added the City of Winnipeg, the federal government and others. The lawsuit says the lake is sacred, alive, has a spirit and deserves better. Let’s hope the Kinew government and Hydro sit down with these Indigenous leaders and finally get serious about saving Lake Winnipeg.

NOT ENOUGH ME TIME

The average parent gets just 31 minutes of me time each day, according to a survey of 2,000 moms and dads. The average working parent pulls an 18-hour day, while non-working parents have a 17-hour day. 56% of all parents feel guilty for not spending enough time with their kids.

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‘IT’S OK TO STAND OUT’

Michigan teenager Eric Kilburn has set a new Guinness World Record for his incredibly large feet and hands. The 16-year-old wears size 23 shoes and his hands stretch more than nine inches. His mom suggested applying for the record after paying more than $1,500 for custom-made shoes. He has since landed sponsorships from Puma and Under Armour. Eric embraces his uniqueness and encourages others to take pride in themselves. “It’s OK to stand out. Don’t let negativity distract you from your goals.”

TOY FINALISTS

The Toy Hall of Fame has announced this year’s finalists for induction. Balloons, Transformers, Choose Your Own Adventure books, My Little Pony and Pokemon cards are among the 12 finalists. “These 12 toys represent the wide range of play — from strategic to whimsical to physical — and present many playful match-ups,” chief curator Christopher Bensch said. You can vote for your favourites until Wednesday at MuseumOfPlay.org.

-Hal has written columns for years. He’s also the host of Connecting Winnipeg weekday mornings from 10 to noon on 680 CJOB. You can email him at Hal@HalAnderson.ca.

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