From the Office of Senator Kerry

Monday, November 22, 2004

Congressman John F. Tierney (D-Salem) joined Senators Edward M. Kennedy and John F. Kerry in obtaining $900,000 for the Essex National Heritage Area in the fiscal year 2005 appropriations bill. The bill awaits the President's signature pending correction of one unrelated matter in the overall bill. "The Essex National Heritage Area plays a key role in our region's civic life by insuring that our rich history helps to guide our future," Senator Kennedy said. "We've built a great partnership over the years, and I'm grateful our congressional colleagues have again recognized the importance of the work being done by the Essex National Heritage Commission." "This funding will help bring tourists and increased economic activity to the historic sites in Essex County. I am pleased to work with Congressman Tierney and Senator Kennedy to secure funding for the Essex National Heritage Area." Senator Kerry said. "I am tremendously pleased that we were able to again obtain funds for Essex National Heritage, which will support a multitude of programs including the restoration of historic properties, education grants, and important heritage development initiatives," Tierney said. "I am delighted to receive word that the fiscal year 2005 budget has finally passed and that it includes $900,000 for the Essex National Heritage Area. The members of the Commission understand that this has been a very difficult year for domestic programs, and it is a great accomplishment that Congressman Tierney and Senators Kennedy and Kerry have been able to secure this funding for another year," said Annie C. Harris, Executive Director of the Commission that manages grants and programs within the nationally designated Heritage Area. "The Commission has a track record of using every dollar that we receive in federal funds to leverage an additional $3.00 to $4.00 in other non-federal investment in Essex County. We will make certain that these funds will be used very judiciously in this way again," concluded Thomas M. Leonard, President of Essex National Heritage Commission and former Senior Vice President of Salem Five Savings Bank. # # #