Government of Canada Supports Prescott's Bicentennial Anniversary Celebrations

January 18, 2010

PRESCOTT - On behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, Gord Brown, Member of Parliament for Leeds-Grenville, today announced funding for the Prescott Bicentennial Committee for its celebrations to mark the 200th anniversary of the Town of Prescott.

The organization will use this funding to present the Town of Prescott's bicentennial anniversary celebration, which will feature the work of about 75 local artists, artisans, and performers. Commemorative activities include a series of lectures on local historical heritage, a local artisan showcase, theatrical performances, and a bicentennial anniversary commemorative mural.

"Our Government is proud to invest in the 200th anniversary of the Town of Prescott," said Minister Moore. "These celebrations will bring to life the rich military and industrial history of the town in a way that is both educational and entertaining, through the works of the vibrant cultural community living there today."

"I was pleased to be able to participate in the New Year's Day opening celebration for Prescott's Bicentennial and I am thrilled that our Government is supporting this important year-long celebration," said Mr. Brown. "Prescott's history is unique and colourful, and I want to thank the volunteers for the efforts they are making on behalf of this important celebration."

"We are very grateful to have received this funding, which will help celebrate the anniversary of the founding of Prescott by Colonel Edward Jessup in 1810," said Suzanne Dodge, Chair of the Prescott Bicentennial Committee. "We will use these funds in partnership with the town, community groups, and organizations to welcome families and friends when they visit our historic fort town on the St. Lawrence River throughout 2010."

The Prescott Bicentennial Committee is a local, unincorporated, volunteer-run organization whose mandate is to plan, implement, and evaluate the Prescott Bicentennial 1810-2010.

The Government of Canada has provided funding of $52,700 through the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage (http://www.pch.gc.ca/pgm/dcap-bcah/index-eng.cfm) 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.