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Hazel McCallion92-year-old mayor of the Canadian city of Mississauga
Date of Birth: 14.02.1921
Country:  Canada |
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Biografi of Hazel McCallion
Hazel McCallion, also known as Hurricane Hazel, is a 92-year-old mayor of Mississauga, a city in Canada. She has held this position since 1978, serving as the mayor for over three decades. In October 2010, McCallion was re-elected for the 12th consecutive time, winning with 76% of the votes. Despite being dubbed "Fidel Hazel Castro" by some critics, her popularity remained unaffected.
Early Life and Personal Life
Hazel McCallion, born Hazel Journeaux, in 1921 in Port Daniel, Canada. Her father was a fish cannery owner, and her mother took care of the household and the family farm. McCallion had two older sisters and two older brothers. She completed her education in secretarial courses but desired to attend university. However, due to financial constraints, she had to settle for secretarial skills.
In 1951, McCallion met her future husband, Sam McCallion, at a church. The couple got married later that same year and remained together until Sam's passing in 1997. They had three children who took over the management of the family business, "The Mississauga Booster" newspaper.
Political Career
McCallion entered politics in 1967 after working for the Canadian company "Kellogg" in Montreal and later in Toronto. Having achieved some success in the business world, she decided to pursue a career in politics. Her political career began in Streetsville, a village that later merged with Mississauga, which is now the sixth-largest city in Canada and the third-largest in Ontario.
It is widely believed that Mississauga's prosperity and growth can be credited to Hazel McCallion's leadership. She was first elected as mayor in 1978, and shortly after, in 1979, a major train accident occurred, resulting in the release of toxic chemicals. McCallion's prompt and organized evacuation efforts earned her respect and admiration. Over 200,000 lives were saved, and McCallion became known worldwide.
Over the years, Mississauga transformed from a small town into a modern city, with a population of over 700,000 by 2010. McCallion remained the mayor and played a significant role in the city's development. Mississauga soon became one of Canada's corporate and financial centers, thanks in part to her efforts. McCallion's plans included a grand project to construct giant skyscrapers in the city.
Later Years and Legacy
Despite being over 90 years old, McCallion continues to serve as the mayor of Mississauga and remains one of the most popular women in Canada. She is known for her down-to-earth demeanor and her love for hockey, a sport she played herself. It is said that she still drives to work in her old car and manages all of her household chores.
In memory of her late husband, who passed away from Alzheimer's disease in 1997, McCallion personally funded the construction of the Sam McCallion Senior Centre for Alzheimer's patients. She has also been leading the Anti-retirement movement, advocating against mandatory retirement.
As of February 14, 2013, McCallion celebrated her 92nd birthday and continues to have ambitious plans for the city's development. She is highly respected and influential, making her one of Canada's most revered women.
