First Lady Names Florissant as A Preserve America Community

Post author:independentnws
Post published:September 9, 2008
Post category:Florissant
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Florissant has been named as one of the nation’s newest Preserve America Communities by First Lady Laura Bush, honorary chair of the Preserve America Initiative.

Mayor Robert Lowery received a letter and a certificate of designation signed by Mrs. Bush announcing that Florissant is now a Preserve America Community. The mayor said he looks forward to further preservations efforts in Florissant to maintain the heritage of
North St. Louis County.

Designated communities receive national recognition for their efforts. Benefits include the right to use the Preserve America logo on signs and promotional materials; eligibility for Preserve America Grants; notification to state tourism offices; and listing in a Wed-based directory that showcases Florissant’s preservation efforts and heritage tourism destinations.

“Preserve America Communities demonstrate that they are committed to preserving America’s heritage while ensuring a future filled with opportunities for learning and enjoyment,” Bush said. “This community designation program, combined with the Preserve America Grant Program, Preserve America Presidential Awards, and other federal support, provides strong incentives for continued preservation of our cultural and natural heritage resources,” the press release from the First Lady stated. “I commend you for your commitment to preserving an important part of our nation’s historic past for visitors, neighbors, and, most importantly, for children,” Mrs. Bush said.

Preserve America Communities are also featured in National Register Travel itineraries and in Teaching With Historic Places curricular materials created by the National Park Service. Preserve America is an Administration effort to encourage and support community efforts to preserve and enjoy America’s priceless culture and natural heritage. In 2006. Preserve American grants totaled nearly $5 million and were awarded to 68 projects nationwide. In 2008, $10 million is available.