KELOWNA, British Columbia, February 18, 2008 - On behalf of the Honourable Josée Verner, Minister of Canadian Heritage, Status of Women and Official Languages, Ron Cannan, Member of Parliament (Kelowna-Lake Country), today announced funding for the Rutland Residents Association's centennial celebrations.
Funding of $36,000 will support the Rutland Residents Association's 100th anniversary celebrations for Rutland, which will be held from February 24 to September 1, 2008. Planned activities include the Rutland Centennial Community Social, May Days Celebration, and Pioneer and Family Picnic. The celebrations will feature performances by local artists and artisans.
"The Government of Canada is pleased to support the Rutland Residents Association's 100th anniversary celebrations," said Minister Verner. "We are proud to partner with communities to support activities that celebrate local history, arts, and heritage."
"It is important that future generations be aware of their origins and of Canada's rich and diverse heritage," said Mr. Cannan. "The 100th anniversary celebrations for Rutland will increase pride among members of our community."
"Without this support from the Government of Canada, it would be difficult to plan a festive year to celebrate Rutland's Centennial gala events, which will honour and pay tribute to our pioneers as they truly deserve," said Evelyn Vielvoye, Head of the Rutland 100-Year Committee. "Our historical displays will bring back memories of the early years, show how these hard working pioneers struggled to build a new community in the Okanagan Valley, and leave a legacy of hope and community spirit for future generations."
The Rutland Residents Association, a local non-profit organization, was established in 1994 and works to promote the interests of the residents, including quality of life and the environment. The Association facilitates dialogue and interaction with the City of Kelowna and the Regional District of Central Okanagan.
The new Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage (BCAH) program, announced in September 2007, provides Canadians with more opportunities to take part in local activities that present arts and culture and celebrate local history and heritage. This program will benefit many community events and celebrations in Canada throughout the coming year.
The Government of Canada is committed to building stronger communities and to providing all Canadians with opportunities to get involved in their communities and in celebrating Canadian arts and heritage.
Information:
Dominic Gosselin
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage,
Status of Women and Official Languages
819 997-7788
Ginette Montreuil
Regional Manager
Communications
Western Region
Canadian Heritage
604 666-6504
Donald Boulanger
A/Chief, Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819 994-9101
