FORT SASKATCHEWAN, Alberta, April 17, 2009 - On behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, Tim Uppal, Member of Parliament (Edmonton - Sherwood Park), today announced funding for the Fort Saskatchewan Historical Society.
This funding will allow the Society to carry out activities to mark the 100th anniversary of Fort Saskatchewan's Courthouse. These activities include mock trials for children and the general public, a new museum exhibit based on law and order, and a showcase of artists and heritage performers.
"Our Government is pleased to support celebrations for the 100th anniversary of the Courthouse," said Minister Moore. "We are proud to partner with communities to commemorate important milestones of their heritage and history, which strengthen ties between generations."
"By supporting the Fort Saskatchewan Historical Society, we are embracing our heritage, which defines us as a nation," said Mr. Uppal. "The Society plays a vital role in our community, and I am pleased to be a part of the 100th anniversary of Fort Saskatchewan's Courthouse."
"The support from the Government of Canada for our celebration of the 100th anniversary of our Courthouse will go a long way in making this a memorable and educational event for our local schools," said Ray Thurston, President of the Fort Saskatchewan Historical Society. "These types of grants help enormously in ensuring our culture and heritage are not forgotten and that they are an essential component of our future generation's learning."
The Fort Saskatchewan Historical Society, incorporated in 1970, is a local organization with the mandate to promote interest in the history of the Fort Saskatchewan district and to actively support the functions of the Fort Saskatchewan Museum and Historic Sites.
The Government of Canada has provided funding of $2,700 through the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage Program of the Department of Canadian Heritage, which provides Canadians with more opportunities to take part in activities that present local arts and culture and celebrate local history and heritage. This program will benefit many community events and historic anniversaries in Canada this year.
Information: Deirdra McCracken
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and
Official Languages
819-997-7788
deirdra.mccracken@pch.gc.ca Ginette Montreuil
Regional Manager
Communications
Western Region
Canadian Heritage
604-666-6504
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
