Royal Couple Attend Celebration of Nova Scotia Event
NOTE: A social media version of this release, with downloadable high-res photographs, video and audio clips is available at http://gov.ns.ca/news/smr/2010-06-29-royal-tour.asp .
Premier Darrell Dexter hosted a Celebration of Nova Scotia today, June 29, to profile the remarkable achievements of Nova Scotians to Her Majesty the Queen and His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh.
The event, at the Cunard Centre in Halifax, was designed to showcase Nova Scotia's history, heritage and culture in a unique way, while profiling Nova Scotians who have made, and continue to make, significant contributions to their communities, province and country.
"The monarchy represents tradition and the evolution of our institutions," said Premier Dexter. "By acknowledging the accomplishments and achievements of these proud Nova Scotians with the Royal Couple, we are reminded that service to country and community makes Nova Scotia an even better place to live, work and raise a family."
On behalf of Nova Scotians, Premier Dexter presented the Royal Couple with a commemorative crystal pedestal bowl created by the craftsmen of NovaScotian Crystal. The original pattern, entitled Celebration 2010, symbolizes the firm foundation on which our constitutional monarchy is built. As a mark of respect for the occasion, the bowl will not be reproduced.
Her Majesty and His Royal Highness greeted and mingled with guests, which included recipients of the province's highest honour, the Order of Nova Scotia, Canadian Forces members, unsung heroes who work outside the spotlight to make their communities better and Premier's Power of Positive Change recipients.
The province also made a donation to the Halifax and Region Military Family Resource Centre in support of the Canadian Navy Centennial, and out of respect of the deployed members and their families.
Nova Scotia's cultural diversity was on display with a performance by DRUM! The show featured artists from the province's four principal cultures -- Black, Celtic, Aboriginal and Acadian -- and included music, dance and song. With Nova Scotia's remarkable history as a backdrop, DRUM! tells of the arrival, settlement, struggles and ultimate coming together of four of North America's founding cultures.
"As a province, we have a lot to offer through our people, achievements and cultural diversity," said Premier Dexter. "DRUM! showcases Nova Scotia's immense musical talent, while telling the story of our rich history in a lively format that everyone can enjoy."