WELLAND, Ontario, February 22, 2008 - On behalf of the Honourable Josée Verner, Minister of Canadian Heritage, Status of Women and Official Languages, Dean Allison, Member of Parliament (Niagara West-Glanbrook), today announced funding for the 150th Anniversary of the City of Welland.
Funding of $98,500 will be used for heritage activities, including outdoor photographic displays, historical photographic displays, and historical building exhibits, to celebrate the city's 150th anniversary. Activities and artistic performances will take place throughout the year and draw together residents and visitors to Welland.
"The Government of Canada is proud to support Welland's 150th Anniversary by providing funding under the new Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program," said Minister Verner. "We are proud to partner with communities to support activities that celebrate local history and heritage."
"It is important that future generations be aware of their origins, as well as the rich and diverse history we have in the Niagara region," said Mr. Allison. "Welland's 150th anniversary will increase pride among its citizens and bring people together in celebration from across Niagara."
"On behalf of Welland's 150th Anniversary Planning Committee, we are extremely pleased that the Government of Canada is recognizing our community's 150th anniversary celebration and the efforts of our Committee to produce a first-rate celebration," said Damian Goulbourne, Mayor of Welland.
"Welland's 150th Anniversary Planning Committee is thrilled to be a recipient of the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage Program," said Deanna Villella, Co-Chair of the Welland 150th Planning Committee. "These funds will allow us to provide a range of quality programming that otherwise would not have been possible. On behalf of the Committee and the residents of Welland, thank you for your generous assistance."
The new Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage 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 the celebration of 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
Maya Kane
Manager, Communications
Ontario Region
Canadian Heritage
416 954-6615
Donald Boulanger
A/Chief, Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819 994-9101
