From a casual appraisal of the scene at Memorial Gardens yesterday, an outsider would never have predicted this result. It appeared to be a giant exercise in the branding of one of the candidates, but the other candidate, Bill Vrebosch, took the nomination and will be running in the next provincial election under the Conservative banner. Even the most jaded observer would have his or her faith restored in our electoral system, as this result was generated by a grassroots effort.

Judy Koziol, in a show of class, declared that the result should be considered unanimous in favour of Mr. Vrebosch, and asked the riding association to unite behind him.

This election promises to be absolutely fascinating as Monique Smith, the highly regarded Nipissing MPP, who is rumored to be a potential cabinet minister, runs for re-election against the charismatic Mayor of East Ferris.