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Ericksen works to extend
Peace Arch Park's
International Sculpture Exhibition for Winter
Olympics
Lawmaker works with governor's office, State Parks
and Recreation Commission
When it appeared the Peace
Arch Park's International Sculpture Exhibition could be denied an
extension and forced to dismantle prior to the 2010 Winter Olympics,
Rep.
Doug Ericksen sought a solution. The state lawmaker may
have found one after picking up the phone and talking to the governor's
office and director of the Washington State Parks and Recreation
Commission.
"I spoke with the governor's office and Rex Derr of
the State Parks and Recreation Commission and was told that if an
application was submitted there was a good chance the International Sculpture Exhibition would be allowed to
stay on display
through the 2010 Winter Olympics," said Ericksen, R-Ferndale.
"I join many others who feel it is important to show the
world what Blaine and Whatcom County offer and represent.
Peace Arch Park and its art are beautiful reflections of the area."
Ericksen said the city of Blaine will need to
submit an application to the state, but that he does not
foresee any problems arising that would result in the exhibition being
removed. The application process is a result of new state policy
regarding public displays of political, religious or secular content on
state property. The exhibition was deemed to be secular content.
"There is a formal process in place that must be followed, but I
don't think there will be any problems," said Ericksen.
"I want to thank the governor's office and Director Rex Derr for being
prompt and attentive to this important local matter. It's a great
example of different levels of government working together to put forth
a common-sense solution that benefits the community."
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For more information, contact:
John
Handy, Deputy Communications Director | (360) 786-5758
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