Rutland Lions Cenotaph Receives Federal Support for Renovation

September 08, 2009

Kelowna, British Columbia – The Rutland Lions Cenotaph in Rutland Park built in approximately 1920, which is dedicated to local soldiers who served during the First and Second World Wars and in the Korean War, will be restored thanks to support from the Government of Canada.

On behalf of the Honourable Greg Thompson, Minister of Veterans Affairs, Ron Cannan, Member of Parliament for Kelowna – Lake Country announced today federal government support of $25,000 for the City of Kelowna that will be used to help restore and conserve the Rutland Lions Cenotaph in Rutland Lions Park in Kelowna, British Columbia.

Funding was provided through Veterans Affairs Canada’s Cenotaph/Monument Restoration Program which will allow the cenotaph to be restored by removing and redoing all mortar in joints, cleaning all granite including corner posts, filling visible holes or cracks made from the original lead letters and installing replacement bronze plaques.

 “This cenotaph reminds us all of the many sacrifices Canadians have made for the freedom we enjoy today,” said Minister Thompson. “The Rutland Lions Cenotaph in Rutland Park is a poignant symbol of conflicts past and present.”

Mr. Cannan added, “The restored Rutland Lions Cenotaph will provide the local citizens with a place to honour all of Canada’s service men and women.”

“We are so pleased to restore this monument and properly reflect the respect we have for those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country,” says Kelowna Mayor Sharon Shepherd. “The enhancements also reflect the input received from our citizens at an open house held earlier this year.”

To complement the federal government’s improvements and provide better access to the Cenotaph, the City of Kelowna has committed $170,000 to the construction of a formal promenade and plaza around the monument. The work begins later this month and will be completed in time for the Remembrance Day service on November 11.

“The result will be a lasting and fitting legacy that will remind regular park users and Remembrance Day participants of the price paid for our freedoms,” says Andrew Gibbs, Park & Public Space Projects Manager for the City of Kelowna.

The Cenotaph/Monument Restoration Program helps communities across Canada to preserve the memory of those who have served our country.  Through partnerships with community groups and local organizations, the cenotaphs and monuments honouring Veterans, Canada’s war dead and significant events, are maintained with the standard of care and dignity that they deserve.

To learn more about the program or to apply for funding, call 1-877-604-8489 or visit
www.vac-acc.gc.ca