In a city longing for a hero, Toronto got a wake up call from 67-year-old Mary Trapani Hynes tonight. The senior delivered a tour-de-force of sarcasm at the expense of the mayor’s doltish executive committee. It was only a minute long but even the committee couldn’t help but grin.
“I’m a senior living in North York and I have some modest proposals,” she hollered into the microphone. Hundreds who had been quietly chattering shushed themselves silent.
“First, the library. You’ve made a good start with closing the Metro branch. Don’t stop there. You should get rid of the entire public library system —”
Spectators exchanged confused glances.
“— As you can see from the thousands of petitions and emails complaining about proposed service cuts, far too many people use the library to improve literacy and to learn about government and politics. You would save millions.”
The room exploded in giggles. Echoes of cheering could be heard from the neighbouring committee room, which was handling the overflow. Many on the mayor’s executive committee couldn’t help but chuckle.
“While you’re at it,” Hynes continued. “Get rid of the city’s website information on how Toronto city government works and on how to access the city. You would save millions.”
Hey Rob Ford – ever heard of Detroit? That’s where you’re driving particular bus, baby. Um, Rob…where are you? Another big lie: “I’ll sit there all night if I have to”.
