The Government of Canada Supports Settlers’ Day Committee

July 23, 2008

PENETANGUISHENE, Ontario – Residents and visitors to Penetanguishene will have an opportunity to celebrate the heritage and history of Penetanguishene, thanks to an investment by the Government of Canada.

Bruce Stanton, Member of Parliament (Simcoe North), 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 Settlers’ Day Committee of Penetanguishene.

The $3,000 in funding will help the Committee organize Settlers’ Day Weekend, which takes place from September 19 to 21. The event will highlight the heritage and history of the area through a series of historical re-enactments, musical performances, as well as other activities to mark the 180th anniversary of the Drummond Island Migration.

“The Government of Canada is pleased to announce funding for the Settlers’ Weekend,” said Minister Verner. “We are pleased to partner with communities to support activities that celebrate local history, arts, and heritage.”

“Local festivals like this one bring people of all ages and backgrounds together and contribute to building strong communities,” said Mr. Stanton. “I am proud that our Government has taken decisive steps to strengthen our shared sense of heritage.”

“We are grateful to Canadian Heritage for providing funds for the Settlers’ Day weekend, which also celebrates the 180th anniversary of the Drummond Island Migration,” said Nicole Jackson, Treasurer of the Settlers’ Day Committee. “The additional funds will allow us to provide more entertainment and exhibits related to the cultural significance of the migration to the Penetanguishene area.”

The Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program, announced in September 2007, provides Canadians with more opportunities to take part in events and activities that present local arts and culture and celebrate local history and heritage. This program will benefit many community events and anniversaries throughout Canada this year.