Paul Hong, a 22-year resident of Bolton and Caledon is the latest candidate seeking the nomination of the provincial Dufferin-Caledon Progressive Conservative Association.

In a news release on Monday, Mr. Hong said, "I am joining this race because I am grateful for the opportunities this country and community have provided me and I want to give back to it."

The 27-year-old emigrated from Korea with his family in 1984, with hopes of finding democracy and opportunity. After graduating from Robert F. Hall Catholic School, Mr. Hong completed post-secondary at the Richard Ivey School of Business and Osgoode Hall Law School. He is currently a Canadian Forces Naval Reserve officer and an active community volunteer serving as vice-chair for the Caledon Community Service.

"I care deeply about the issues impacting both our communities and our province and I have the education, experience and drive needed to affect positive change. My deep respect for John Tory's values of volunteerism, commitment to building a strong and diverse team and my belief that he's a leader who will keep his word, make me want to stand alongside him during the next provincial election."

Mr. Hong joined the PC party as a youth in 1997, is on the executive of the Dufferin Caledon Provincial PC Association and has volunteered for two leadership campaigns, nine electoral campaigns and managed several youth campaigns.

In a telephone interview he identified the need for youth and young adult voters to get involved.

"I don't see young adults and youth engaged in the political process," he said. "This needs to change." He believes leaders must find new ways to reach the voters and hopes he will be able to that.

Mr. Hong says all the candidates know the areas issues and he shares concern about local transportation and support for farmers but he also believes a society has a responsibility to take care of its most vulnerable members with respect saying, "I believe in hand-ups not hand-outs."

In his media release Mr. Hong says the province needs a comprehensive and balanced strategy to tackle growth and transportation challenges.

Other issues high on his list of priorities include the environment, value for taxpayers' money, strengthening the health care system, finding better ways to deliver services to the disabled and elderly and the administration of justice.

His military service includes serving on five Canadian warships and in two reserve units. He served as an Aide-de-Camp to Ontario's lieutenant governor and currently serves on the boards of directors of Caledon Community Services and St. John Ambulance.

He is a member of the Knights of Columbus and serves as an organist at Holy Family Catholic Church.

Mr. Hong joins four other candidates for the party nomination: Orangeville's former Mayor Drew Brown, Sylvia Jones, currently MPP John Tory's executive assistant, Caledon councillor Jim Wallace and long-time Caledon resident Lynne Moore.

One other person, formerly in local municipal politics, is rumoured to announce his candidacy in the next week.

The final date for candidates to declare their intention to run is Dec. 10.

Anyone wishing to vote for the riding's PC candidate is required to join the PC Association by Dec. 20. Memberships cost $10 per person and can be purchased by anyone14 years of age or older who resides in the electoral riding of Dufferin- Caledon.

The candidate selection is to take place January 13 at the Orangeville Agriculture Society in Mono. Voting will take place by the paid-up membership with a preferential ballot.