CHASE, British Columbia, May 15, 2008 -- Chase-area residents and visitors will have an opportunity to participate in 100 days of festivities thanks to an investment by the Government of Canada.
Colin Mayes, Member of Parliament (Okanagan-Shuswap), on behalf of the Honourable Josée Verner, Minister of Canadian Heritage, Status of Women and Official Languages, today announced funding for the celebrations of the centennial of the village of Chase.
Funding of $15,000 will help support the Chase 100th anniversary celebrations, which are taking place from May 5 to August 9. All community events in the 100 days leading up to the anniversary celebrations will have a historical theme that promotes the history, arts, and culture in the area. Planned activities include a re-enactment of the selling of the first lot in Chase, the grand opening of a museum exhibit, nightly outdoor concerts, family reunions, and a First Nations cultural day.
"The Government of Canada is proud 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 to celebrate Canadian arts and heritage."
"It is important that future generations be aware of their origins and of Canada's rich and diverse heritage," said Mr. Mayes. "The 100th anniversary celebrations for Chase will increase pride among members of our community."
"Community Spirit is at an all-time high, and we are very grateful for all the support that we have been receiving," said Barbara Maher, Chair of the Chase Centennial. "The Village of Chase extends a warm invitation to everyone and hopes they will add Chase to their summer plans."
The Chase 100th anniversary celebrations will showcase artists, artisans, and heritage performers commemorating local history and heritage through a variety of events. These activities, which will be open to the general public, will strongly promote the participation of everyone in the community.
The 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
