Mr. Speaker, this past weekend I had the pleasure of attending two events that demonstrated the great energy, character and generosity of the people of Bruce–Grey–Owen Sound. The first was Saturday morning at the Walk for Alzheimer’s at the Grey Sauble Conservation Authority near Inglis Falls outside Owen Sound. It was a beautiful morning, and there was a huge turnout of walkers, volunteers and supporters. This great event was organized by the Alzheimer Society of Grey-Bruce and was supported by IG Wealth Management. Amazingly, it was one of four walks they organized that day. Alzheimer Society does such important work to support those living with Alzheimer’s and dementia in our community, and it was great to see such active community support for this important work.

Next, it was off to beautiful Harrison Park in Owen Sound for the Hike for Hospice in support of Grey Bruce Hospice and Chapman House in Owen Sound. Again, there were many hikers and volunteers supporting a great organization. Grey Bruce Hospice provides comprehensive and compassionate care to residents and families in communities during their journey with life-limiting illness. Our friend former MPP Bill Murdoch received great care at the Grey Bruce Hospice before his passing last August. Thank you to all who supported the Hike for Hospice.

These two events demonstrate the great character of our great community in Bruce–Grey–Owen Sound, so thank you to all who were involved.

I rise this morning to let members know about the Kiwanis Owen Sound Santa Claus Parade I had the pleasure of participating in last Saturday evening. It was the 77th running of the parade, and notwithstanding 60 centimetres of snow having fallen, it was a fantastic show. Local firefighters, paramedics, Canada Post workers, the Salvation Army and many, many more were there, as well as thousands of hardy families watching from snowbanks. Of course, Santa was there to provide his personal joy and the spirit of the season. I had the pleasure of walking with members of the Owen Sound municipal council, including both new and re-elected members. I look forward to working with them and other municipal councillors in Bruce–Grey–Owen Sound.

After the parade, there was the Festival of Northern Lights, also in downtown Owen Sound. Dozens of light displays were lit up along the banks of the Sydenham River. It is a spectacular display that will keep the downtown lit up through Christmas and New Year’s.

Next up for Santa is Grey Highlands, my home community, tomorrow. Then, next week, he’s on to Durham, Lion’s Head, Meaford, Dundalk, Hanover and Wiarton. He will be a busy fellow.

Speaking of Wiarton, there are now only 71 days before Willie makes his prediction about the arrival of spring. I understand that Wiarton Willie is already starting vocal exercises and linguistic training to make sure his views are well understood.

I look forward to seeing you all in Wiarton on February 2, 2023.

It is my pleasure this morning to bring this House news about two recent events in Bruce–Grey–Owen Sound.

The first is the two fantastic fall fairs I had the privilege of attending this past weekend. In the great community of Durham, our colleague the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs was there with us to see this excellent fair. There was a great presence from the local agricultural community, including many members of local 4H clubs—lots of future farmers showing their skills. Then I was off to Desboro for their fall fair opening. The Desboro fair always starts with a great parade through town. I was pleased to be part of that parade as MP Alex Ruff and I rode in a manure spreader. I understand that Bill Murdoch started this great tradition, and it was lots of fun. Congratulations and thanks to the organizers of both these great fall fairs.

The other event I want to highlight and make this House aware of was the Stanley Cup coming to Sauble Beach on August 29. Kurtis MacDermid, who plays for the Stanley Cup champions, Colorado Avalanche, grew up in Sauble Beach and played minor hockey there and in nearby Shallow Lake. Kurtis and his family were all there, along with an estimated 10,000 local people. The sun shone brightly on Lord Stanley’s cup in Kurtis’s hometown. Congratulations on your great achievement, Kurtis. You’ve made our great Grey-Bruce community very proud.