RUSAGONIS-WAASIS, New Brunswick, August 24, 2009 - On behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, the Honourable Keith Ashfield, Minister of State (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency) and Member of Parliament (Fredericton), today announced funding for the Rusagonis Recreation Council. The funds will support celebrations during the week of August 23 to 30 to commemorate the centennial anniversary of the Patrick Owen Covered Bridge and the past 100 years in Rusagonis.
The public is invited to take part in a number of activities, including historical displays, the dedication of the 100-year-old bridge, an old-fashioned agricultural exhibit and fair, and the Come Home to Gornish fall festival. Community volunteers are planning a range of events that feature local artisans, artists, and musicians.
"The Government of Canada is pleased to announce funding to celebrate the centennial of the Patrick Owen Covered Bridge, and indeed, 100 years in the life in Rusagonis-Waasis," said Minister Moore. "We are proud to partner with communities to support activities that promote local arts and heritage and contribute to their economy."
"Local celebrations bring people of all ages and backgrounds together and contribute to building stronger communities," said Minister of State Ashfield. "Community volunteers are to be commended for their great work in highlighting local arts and heritage during such an important anniversary."
"The grant we have received from the Government of Canada is truly appreciated and will be a great help in making the celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Patrick Owen Covered Bridge a big success," said Bev Adams, Chair of the Come Home to Gornish Festival. "The funding will allow our volunteer committee to put on an event that will showcase local talent and artisans, while educating the public-and, more importantly, the youth of our area-in our history and the rich culture of the past."
The Government of Canada has provided funding of $28,263 through the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program provides Canadians with more opportunities to take part in activities that present local arts and culture and celebrate local history and heritage.
Deirdra McCracken
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and
Official Languages
819-997-7788
deirdra.mccracken@pch.gc.ca
Claudine Daigle
Director
Regional Communications
Atlantic Region
Canadian Heritage
506-851-3980
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
