I am delighted to share the resounding success of the 2024 Markham Jazzlicious WinterFest, which just wrapped up recently.

Jazzlicious is a three-month-long event which was generously supported by funding from the Experience Ontario program of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport. It brought together gastronomes and music lovers for a night of great food and live jazz in Markham–Unionville. It showcased the amazing musical talent and culinary skills we have right here in Markham–Unionville. It’s also a fantastic celebration of Canadian jazz music and our community’s culinary scene.

I would like to thank Minister Lumsden and his dedicated team for spearheading the impactful Experience Ontario program. Their efforts have not only enriched the fabric of Markham–Unionville but have also given countless local communities opportunities to thrive. By inviting visitors to discover Ontario’s diverse offerings and fostering connections with local experiences, Experience Ontario continues to stimulate tourism spending and promote cultural appreciation across our great province. And Speaker:

Sung to the tune of What a Wonderful World.

I see jazz lovers,

Jazz musicians, too,

And chef-inspired dinners

For Jazzlicious Winterfest,

And I think this combination

Makes a wonderful world.

Speaker, it is indeed a pleasure to return to Queen’s Park after a productive winter break. I’m grateful for this opportunity today to share my recent engagements with stakeholders and constituents in Markham–Unionville during the lunar new year festivities.

The lunar new year holds profound significance for the Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean communities across Canada. To celebrate this cherished tradition, I hosted a meet-and-greet event and attended different celebrations in the community, which were met with great enthusiasm and participation from local families. Witnessing the community come together to embrace ancient customs and celebrate familial bonds was truly heartwarming.

I want to extend my sincere appreciation to Premier Ford, Minister Dunlop, Minister Lecce, Minister Parsa, Minister Williams, as well as my fellow MPPs Wai, Kanapathi and Smith for gracing us with their presence at the celebration at First Markham Place. Together, we shared warm wishes and distributed red packets to families and friends.

This year marks the Year of the Dragon in the lunar calendar. The dragon symbolizes strength and vitality. As we embrace the spirit of renewal and embark on new beginnings, let’s face the opportunities ahead with courage, resilience and unity. May the Year of the Dragon bring strength, vitality and abundance to Ontarians.