Peter Goldring celebrates Chinese Lunar New Year
February 16, 2007
OTTAWA — Peter Goldring, Member of Parliament for Edmonton East, spoke today at the opening ceremonies of the Chinese Lunar New Year Extravaganza, held to mark the start of the Year of the Pig. The celebrations are taking place over the next fifteen days at the Edmonton Chinatown Multi-cultural Centre.
Mr. Goldring said the following words:
“On behalf of the Prime Minister, Stephen Harper and the Government of Canada, I would like to express my best wishes to all members of Edmonton’s Chinese community on the eve of this year’s Lunar New Year Extravaganza. I would like to recognize a few individuals on stage with me.
The New Moon in the sky tonight marks the beginning of what I am sure will be another spectacular event to ring in the Chinese New Year. Last year, nearly 20,000 people attended the festivities and I know that this year’s will be no less successful.
I have worked closely with many of you in the Chinese Community here in Edmonton and admire your dedication to our city, your community and your families. If you bring to this event the same hard work exhibited in your daily lives, the next fifteen days will be quite the celebration.
2007 is the year of the Pig. Those born in the year of the Pig tend to be brave, giving, honest and committed, which describes the members of the Chinese community who made the journey to Canada and contribute so much to our nation.
Mr. Goldring commended the work of the Extravaganza Organizing Committee in planning the event, which will include many cultural performances and displays over the next two weeks.
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