Toronto Mayor Rob Ford launched the 133rd CNE with a ceremony hosted by Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) announcer Jackie Perrin. Music was provided by 87 year old Jazz Vibophonist Peter Appleyard who sounded as clear as he did years ago. Of the politicians present were Ted Opitz MP who previously had been Special Assistant to Federal Citizen and Immigration Minister Jason Kenney. He is of Polish background and a colonel in the 48th Highlanders reserve regiment. Other politicians were the Hon. Margarett Best, MPP, and Toronto City Councillor Michael Thompson.
The Hon. Peter Van Loan, Conservative House Leader was representing Prime Minister Stephen Harper at the opening ceremony of the National Ethnic Press and Media Council of Canada (NEPMCC) display at the Direct Energy Building, in the diversity show behind the performance stage. Mr. VanLoan spoke to the full crowd from the stage. Other politicians attending were the Hon. John McKay, PC, MP, the Hon. Jim Karygiannis, PC, MP and Toronto City Councillor Michael Thompson.
