Press Releases 2007

February 16, 2007

For Immediate Release

KLEES: Chinese New Year A Meaningful Canadian Holiday

(QUEEN'S PARK) Oak Ridges MPP Frank Klees, the PC Education and Citizenship & Immigration Critic, today said that Chinese New Year, that begins on Sunday, February 18 th , is one of the most colourful and meaningful cultural celebrations in Canada and around the globe:

"Chinese New Year festivities last for 15 days beginning on

'chu-xi' or New Year's eve and ending with the Lantern Festival or 'Shi Wu Wan.'

"According to legend, Buddha asked all the animals to meet him at the new year and when twelve different animals came, he named a year after each one. This year, Ding Hai 4705, is the Year of the Boar or Pig and those born in this year are said to be hard-working with excellent manners who are liked by all as loyal friends. At Chinese New Year celebrations it is customary to wear and to decorate with the colour red that symbolizes fire that drives away bad luck. New Year fireworks have a similar meaning.

"In China , the New Year is a time of family reunion dinners with different traditions that are followed on different days of the 15 day New Year's period, culminating with the Lantern Festival and its highlight, the Dragon Dance. Glowing lanterns are hung in temples and are carried in parade under the light of the full moon.

"On behalf of John Tory, the Leader of the Official Opposition and the Ontario PC Caucus, I would like to extend warmest best wishes to our entire Chinese Canadian Community for a happy and prosperous New Year Ding Hai 4705! Kong Hey Fa-Choy!"

-30-

For further information

Frank Klees, MPP

416-325-7316

Frank Klees, MPP with

Ms Alice Ko, Fashion Designer Ms Ko created the

Traditional Chinese Jacket worn By Mr. Klees at the Benefit Gala for the

Yee Hong Centre for Geriatric Care Sat Feb 17, 2007

Kong Hey Fa-Choy