HALIFAX (CNB) – Spectators arriving at the opening of the 2011 Canada Winter Games in Halifax today were encouraged by Premier David Alward and Nova Scotia Premier Darrell Dexter to vote for the Bay of Fundy in the New7Wonders of Nature campaign.

"I am happy to join Premier Dexter at the 2011 Canada Winter Games and encourage Canadians to vote for our Bay of Fundy," said Alward. "Our provinces share a fantastic natural wonder in the Bay of Fundy, and this is a great chance to rally Canadians to vote from coast to coast."

The premiers handed out votemyfundy magnets to show Canadians how they can help support the bid to have the Bay of Fundy named one of the seven new natural wonders of the world.

"The opening ceremony is the official launch to the Canada Games, and I want to personally welcome Nova Scotians and visitors from across the country," said Dexter. "The Games are as much about nation-building as they are about sports, and encouraging people to vote for one of this country's most spectacular natural assets is something I am proud to support."

Terri McCulloch, executive director of Bay of Fundy Tourism and official nominator of the Bay of Fundy, also attended the opening.

"The Canada Games are about celebrating national pride,” said McCulloch. “It is a perfect opportunity to encourage all Canadians to make their global finalist one of the official New7Wonders of Nature."

The Bay of Fundy is the only Canadian finalist among 28 candidates in the international New7Wonders of Nature campaign. The seven winners will be announced Nov. 11. More information is online.

LINK:

●    New7Wonders of Nature Finalist (Bay of Fundy): www.votemyfundy.com


11-02-11