I have not had a great deal to do with actual party politics but I have to admit that I mainly voted NDP in no small part because of the quality of the leadership. Not just the dedication to the cause but the intelligence and, more importantly, the sense of humour. Sure, Ed could get snappy and Alexa couldn't make the break through but, like Jack, there was an honest smile that came along with their message. Jack's, however, was the best. It was genuine, impartial, generous and infectious.

During the 2006 election campaign, I suggested to the world that NDP supporters needed to make their own Jack 'stash by printing off a handy DIY kit. There is something about the news today that suggests I offer it again, to remind us of the smile he brought to whatever tasks were at hand.