FERGUS, Ontario
Michael Chong, Member of Parliament (Wellington-Halton Hills), on behalf of the Honourable Josée Verner, Minister of Canadian Heritage, Status of Women and Official Languages and Minister for La Francophonie, today announced funding for the Fergus 175th Anniversary Committee and the Fergus Scottish Festival, which both celebrate the history and cultural heritage of Fergus.
The Fergus 175th Anniversary Committee will receive $20,000 in funding to increase its programming activities for this anniversary year. This celebration will feature several arts and heritage activities throughout the year, including a homecoming weekend at the end of June.
The 2008 Fergus Scottish Festival will receive $7,500 to support its three-day program in August, which showcases Scottish heritage and celebrates the artistic, athletic, and musical traditions of Scotland.
“The Government of Canada is pleased to support the Fergus 175th Anniversary Committee and the Fergus Scottish Festival,” said Minister Verner. “We are proud to partner with communities to support activities that celebrate our shared history and our rich cultural diversity.”
“The 175th Anniversary of Fergus and the Fergus Scottish Festival are wonderful occasions for us to celebrate 175 years of history, as we remember those who came before and built this community,” said Mr. Chong. “Having grown up in this community, and proud to call Fergus my home, I am pleased to support the 175th Anniversary Committee and the Festival in their important role of showcasing the heritage of Wellington County.”
“With this grant, we have the ability to let our community know what is so great about living in a 175 year old town,” said Mary Lloyd, Chair of the Fergus 175th Anniversary Committee. “Activities along the picturesque Grand River, historic buildings open for tours, a rock”n”roll dinner dance, and a downtown art walk provide a sample of what this small town has to offer.”
The 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 throughout Canada this year.
Information:
Dominic Gosselin
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage,
Status of Women and Official Languages and Minister for La Francophonie
819 997-7788
Jim Smith
Office of Michael Chong
519-843-7344