It was an honour to be invited and attend many Chinese New Year celebrations in our community. I extend my very best wishes to all Markham residents for a Happy, Healthy, and Prosperous Year of the Dragon!
CRIME
YORK REGIONAL POLICE WARNING ABOUT EXTORTION SCAM TARGETING CHINESE COMMUNITY
In recent weeks, York Regional Police has received multiple reports of individuals being contacted by scammers posing as Chinese law enforcement officials. The scammers use various tactics, including phone calls and social media messages, to deceive victims into believing that they are in legal trouble in China. The scammers then demand victims transfer money or provide personal information, sometimes threatening deportation or arrest.
To learn more about this scam, ways to protect yourself, and how to report it, please click below.
HEALTH
YORK REGION PUBLIC HEALTH WARNING ABOUT MEASLES
On February 29, York Region Public Health confirmed a measles case in an adult who hasn’t travelled recently or been in contact with anyone ill. Because the source of the infection is unknown and measles is a highly contagious viral infection, public health officials are advising anyone who is concerned about exposure to check their immunization records or call their health professional BEFORE going to see them. To access a measles factsheet, please click below.
ARTS & CULTURE
VARLEY ART GALLERY
FREE ADMISSION EVENTS, NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED
Little Native Hockey League (LNHL) Art and Craft Workshop – March 9 – 17 from 10 am to 5 pm
In honour of the 50th Anniversary of the LNHL and Markham’s first hosting of their annual tournament, drop in for this workshop.
Lost and Found Musician Practice Sessions – January 27 – May 5, 2024 from 2 pm to 4 pm
Visitors will encounter a musician or musical group practicing their respective instruments in the gallery space.
Purple Market – Sunday, March 24, 2024 from 1pm to 4 pm
The Varley transforms into a market-style space showcasing an array of handcrafted creations by talented youth artists, from prints and clothing to jewelry and baked goods.
MOM Market – Sunday, March 31 from 11 am to 3 pm
Peruse the offerings of up to 17 local vendors hosted by the MOM Market Collective, a national organization that supports small businesses, including artisans.
SPECIAL EASTER EVENT
Easter Egg Painting Party – Sunday, March 17 from 1 pm to 2:30 pm
Registration is required – $27 per person. Children will create Easter-themed artwork and participate in an old-fashioned Easter Egg Hunt.
SPRING 2024 PROGRAM REGISTRATION NOW OPEN
Immerse yourself in art with a diverse range of activities for people of all ages at the Gallery. Varley Members save 10% and Seniors save 30%. Programs fill up fast and include:
• Adult and Children’s Art Classes
• One-day Workshops
• Summer Camps
• P. A. Day Camps
VOLUNTEER AT THE VARLEY
People (ages 14+) with an interest in art can apply to assist with art education programming by:
- Run special events
- Assist with Children’s program
- Monitor the Exhibition Galleries (Gallery Attendants)
TRANSIT NEWS
FREE TRANSFER FROM YORK REGION TRANSIT WITH ONTARIO’S NEW ONE FARE PROGRAM
Starting Monday, February 26, 2024, Ontario’s One Fare Program will allow customers to transfer for free with one fare from York Region Transit (YRT) to the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), GO Transit and other participating transit systems, using PRESTO, PRESTO Mobile Wallet, credit or debit.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
YORK REGION ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ACTION PLAN
York Regional Council has now approved the 2024 to 2027 Economic Development Action Plan, a strategic priority to contribute to economic vitality. The Plan highlights four pillars to deliver business support services, support entrepreneurship and innovation, grow a skilled workforce, and promote York Region as a top location for business.
Specific actions over the next four years include:
- Delivering small business services support through the York Small Business Enterprise Centre
- Continuing to strengthen York Region’s Foreign Direct Investment program to attract international businesses and investments
- Administering relevant funding opportunities like the York Region Innovation Investment Fund and the York Region Entrepreneurship and Innovation Fund
- Continuing to enhance the York Link marketing platform
FESTIVALS & EVENTS
Festivals and Events Ontario (FEO) has announced that two of Markham’s signature events, the 2023 Canada Day and 2023 Markham-Milliken Children’s Festival, are recipients of their 2024 Top 100 Festivals and Events in Ontario Award. The Children’s Festival was also awarded in 2023.
Congratulations and much appreciation to our City’s Corporate & Community Events Team for their hard work and dedication to create such fun-filled, safe, and educational celebrations for residents of all ages. Mark your calendars for these two events for Monday, July 1 and Saturday, September 7, 2024!
YORK REGION FOOD COUNCIL
TAKE THE SURVEY AND A CHANCE TO WIN A GROCERY GIFT CARD
The York Region Food Council is seeking public input through a survey to update the York Region Food Charter. Do you live, work or study in York Region? Do you care about food, agriculture, the environment in York Region? Do you want to be entered into a draw to win a $50 grocery gift card? Click below to participate!
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