The Honourable Kathleen Wynne, Provincial Minister of Education, held her New Year’s levee Sunday, January 13. Among those in attendance were John Godfrey, Federal Liberal Member of Parliament for Don Valley West, who is resigning to become principal of Toronto French School, and the Honourable Sarmite Bulte.

Bulte has been asked to run for the nomination in Don Valley West to replace Godfrey, and the veteran Latvian-Canadian politician indicated that she could use the help of Estonians.

"The nomination meeting could be called at any time and then the [riding’s Liberal party] membership will be closed," said Bulte, adding that “time is of the essence." Bulte will be facing off against high-profile candidate Deborah Coyne, who has is also seeking the nomination for Godfrey’s perceived safe seat. Former Tory star candidate Mark Warner is rumoured to be another possible contender for the liberal nomination.

"I have received the Estonian Central Council Medal of Merit. It is something I am very proud of," said Bulte.

Bulte was Liberal Member of Parliament in Parkdale-High Park from 1997 until 2006. She was defeated by Peggy Nash of the NDP in the last federal election.

While in office she became Parliamentary Assistant to Heritage Minister Sheila Copps. She has done considerable work for the Baltic Federation.

"Sarmite Bulte was a very hard worker, everything she promised to do she did," said Ruta Silins, wife of the Latvian Ambassador in Ottawa.

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