2006 Labrador Winter Games board of directors announced

Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation Paul Shelley today announced the Board of Directors for the 2006 Labrador Winter Games. Joe Goudie (Vice-Chair), Leo Abbass, Ron Bowles, Rick Lewis, Sandy Kershaw, Gary Raume, Al Casey, Dave Winters, Rosemary Fowler, Chris Myrden and Andrew Battcock (Games Director) were appointed to the board, following the announcement of Dusty Miller as chair of the games committee in June of this year.

�I am pleased to announce the composition of the Board of Directors for the 2006 Labrador Winter Games,� said Minister Shelley. �The Labrador Winter Games have become an essential component of the sporting and cultural mosaic of Labrador and, as such, this board is an integral component in ensuring the success of this event. These games have become the corner stone of sport and recreational planning in the region, and I am delighted that the leadership is in the hands of very competent individuals who are recognized leaders within the community.�

�Through the Labrador Winter Games, approximately 450 athletes representing around 30 Labrador communities participate in both traditional and contemporary sporting and lifestyle activities,� said MHA John Hickey. �This board will be instrumental in making this sporting experience the best it can be for the many athletes who will be participating, as well as their families and friends.�

The Labrador Winter Games are held every three years in Happy Valley-Goose Bay. These games are a testament to the region�s focus on health prevention through active living. Additionally, these games contribute greatly to the economic climate of Labrador and contribute to the leadership development of numerous individuals at the community level.

�In Budget 2005, we committed $500,000 in support of the 2006 Labrador Winter Games,� said the minister. �We need to continue our focus on individual health by making a commitment to wellness, healthy communities and healthy lifestyles, and our support of these games is a crucial step toward achieving that goal in Labrador.�

Media contact: Melony O�Neill, Communications, (709) 729-0557, 727-5517

2005 09 13                            9:45 a.m.