News Release

Restoration Foundation Established - Public Gardens

(Halifax, October 14, 2003- Public response to the outpouring of donations and support for the restoration of the Halifax Public Gardens has resulted in a decision to establish the Halifax Public Gardens Restoration Foundation to coordinate the work and provide an opportunity for people who missed local radio broadcast for fund-raising to make a contribution before March 31, 2004.

According to Maritime Broadcasting Chairman, Robert Pace and His Worship Halifax Mayor Peter Kelly, the public support to the radio fundraiser of $1,021,750 has resulted in a focus on the Gardens and continued interest in making a contribution to the work that will be required.

In a joint news release Mayor Peter Kelly and Robert Pace stated,"we believe that there is a need for a foundation to manage the work and to continue to manage and accept support. The foundation will focus on the massive job of restoring the historic gardens as a place of pride for the city and a major attraction for the region."Mayor Kelly said "Regional Council and I are delighted and overwhelmed by the efforts of Mr. Pace and Maritime Broadcasting over the weekend. The public outpouring of support by residents of HRM, as well as many other communities in Nova Scotia and in other provinces across Canada, has been terrific. We are truly appreciative and thankful."

Mr. Pace stated,"Our appeal for the public to support this important first step along the path to recovering from hurricane Jaun touched a nerve and showed the true spirit of a community rallying for a common cause."

Donations to the Halifax Public Gardens Restoration Foundation can be made at any branch of the Bank of Nova Scotia (Scotiabank) or by mail to The Halifax Public Gardens Fund c/o Maritime Broadcasting Systems PO Box 400, Halifax, N.S. B3J 2R2

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Nancy Hilchie
CHFX
(902) 422-1651

John O'Brien
Corporate Communications Officer
(902) 490-6531
(902) 490-4044 (fax)
e-mail www.obrienj@region.halifax.ns.ca