NLIS 1
June 1, 2000
(Tourism, Culture and Recreation)

FULL CIRCLE:
First Contact Vikings and Skraelings in Newfoundland and Labrador
to officially open on June 5

On Monday, June 5 the FULL CIRCLE: First Contact Vikings and Skraelings in Newfoundland and Labrador exhibit will be officially opened by the Right Honourable Adrienne Clarkson, Governor General of Canada and the Honourable Premier Brian Tobin, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador. Also participating in the ceremony will be Gerry Byrne, Member of Parliament for Humber-St. Barbe-Baie Verte representing Herb Gray, Minister responsible for the Canada Millennium Partnership Program and Sheila Copps, Minister of Canadian Heritage, Peter Penashue of the Innu Nation representing the Aboriginal Community, and Eva Bugge, Director General of the Norwegian Foreign Department representing the Nordic Council of Ministers. Charles Furey, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, will be the host for the event. The opening will begin at 10:00 a.m. in the main stage theatre of the St. John�s Arts and Culture Centre.

Photo opportunities in addition to the main stage theatre proceedings include the Official Arrival of Their Excellencies, with full Military Honours, outside the building at 9:45 a.m., Their Excellencies touring the Exhibit, and speaking with members of the Newfoundland Symphony Youth Choir following the tour.

A luncheon will follow at R. Gushue Hall at noon. Any media wishing to attend the luncheon must notify Tara Laing by Friday, June 2 at noon to reserve seating.

Media are requested to arrive by 9:30 a.m. for media briefing in the main lobby of the Arts and Culture.

Media contact: Tara Laing, Viking Celebrations, (709) 729-3813.

2000 06 01                                 11:20 a.m.