STONY PLAIN, Alberta, April 21, 2008 - Stony Plain-area residents will have an opportunity to participate in the painting and construction of a commemorative mural thanks to an investment from the Government of Canada.
The Honourable Rona Ambrose, President of the Queen's Privy Council for Canada, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Minister of Western Economic Diversification, and Member of Parliament (Edmonton-Spruce Grove), on behalf of the Honourable Josée Verner, Minister of Canadian Heritage, Status of Women and Official Languages, today announced funding for the Stony Plain Centennial Committee.
Funding of $5,950 will help support the Stony Plain 100 th anniversary celebrations. Planned activities include community and cultural events, and a Centennial Mural Project that will allow local residents and organizations to be a part of the painting and construction of a commemorative mural. The celebrations will also feature performances and works by local artists and artisans.
"The Government of Canada is proud to partner with communities to support activities that celebrate local history, arts, and heritage," said Minister Verner. "We are 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.
"It is important that future generations be aware of their origins and of Canada's rich and diverse heritage," said Minister Ambrose. "The 100 th anniversary celebrations for Stony Plain will increase pride among citizens, and provide opportunities for all Canadians to engage in their community."
"The Town of Stony Plain Mural Program is dedicated to the preservation of our community's heritage, and our Centennial Mural Mosaic will be a unique way for us to share our story with current and future generations," said Ken Lemke, Mayor of Stony Plain. "This funding makes it possible for our entire community to be a part of this commemorative project, and we look forward to unveiling the final image during our Centennial Homecoming celebrations in July."
The Stony Plain 100 th anniversary celebrations will showcase artists, artisans, and heritage performers that commemorate local history and heritage through a variety of events. These activities, that will be open to the general public, will strongly promote the participation of everyone in the community. Events will include concerts, artist-run workshops, and a Family Day at Rotary Park.
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.
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
