Wardsville, ON – Bev Shipley, Conservative Member of Parliament for Lambton-Kent-Middlesex, today attended the Wardsville Bi-Centennial kick off celebrating the local arts and heritage of Wardsville and surrounding area.

“Our Government is proud to support the Wardsville Community Association,” said Minister Moore. “By partnering with communities to support activities that celebrate our shared history and our rich cultural diversity, we are fulfilling our commitment to strengthen our communities and support arts, culture and heritage.”

Shipley noted, “I am pleased to be here to make this announcement on behalf of the Minister.  Community celebrations are important to the residents of my riding and I want to commend and thank the committee for their initiative and for their efforts.”

The Wardsville Community Association has received funding of $33,100.00 to help present its Bi-Centennial, which will take place from June 18 to June 20, 2010.

The Government of Canada created the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program in September 2007. This program 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.