Government of Canada Invests in the Bicentennial Celebration of the Old Stone Mill and the Founding of the Town of Delta

January 18, 2010

DELTA - On behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, Gord Brown, Member of Parliament (Leeds-Grenville), today announced funding for the Delta Mill Society's commemoration of the 200th anniversary of the Town of Delta and the Old Stone Mill.

Funding for this bicentennial celebration will enable the Delta Mill Society to organize various educational and community-strengthening activities. These year-long celebrations will include the opening of the Mill exhibition, bicentennial ceremonies, Delta beautification projects, street demonstrations, and tours of the village.

"Our Government is proud to support the 200th anniversary of Delta and the Old Stone Mill," said Minister Moore. "The wealth of events taking place in the town of Delta in 2010 will both encourage community pride and participation and attract tourism to this beautiful, historically rich town."

"The Delta Mill is one of Leeds-Grenville's historical treasures," said Mr. Brown. "This bicentennial celebration will help more people learn about the importance of this mill in our history. I am pleased to be part of a government that recognizes the importance of the Old Stone Mill and supports the efforts of the volunteers."

"This funding is greatly appreciated and will go a long way in helping the Delta Mill Society achieve its 2010 goals," said curator Paul George. "The contribution will support Deltabration 2010, a community-wide initiative that aims to strengthen community participation and partnerships while celebrating Delta's heritage."

The Delta Mill Society is a local, incorporated, volunteer-run organization whose mandate is to plan, implement, and evaluate the bicentennial celebrations for the town of Delta and the Old Stone Mill. These year-long festivities feature the work of 50 local artists, musicians, and performers of local historical heritage, providing opportunities for local artists and artisans to engage with their communities and increasing exposure to local historical heritage.

The Government of Canada has provided funding of $72,262 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.