Union Gas Helps East Parry Sound Students Explore Science

$3,000 grant supports regional science fair for grades 7 to 12

SOUTH RIVER, ON, April 9, 2014 /CNW/ - Union Gas is helping students explore their interest in science and technology at the East Parry Sound Regional Science Fair (EPSRSF), courtesy of a $3,000 grant awarded today.

Chris Minor, Union Gas manager of construction and growth, presented the cheque to George Stripe, chairperson for the East Parry Sound Regional Science Fair and the EPSRSF committee prior to the awards ceremony at Almaguin Highlands Secondary School in South River.  Minor was also involved in the presentation ceremony.

The East Parry Sound Regional Science Fair is open to all local grade 7 to 12 students. The annual fair encourages students to undertake independent research in an area of science that interests them such as health or the environment. Students have the opportunity to present their projects to judges the day of the fair. In promoting science and technology the EPSRSF involves students, teachers, community members, local businesses and service clubs.

"At Union Gas, we believe that investing in education creates lasting benefits for people and communities," said Minor. "That's why we support important educational programs in the communities we serve, such as the East Parry Sound Regional Science Fair which is helping students develop their interest in science and technology."

"We are extremely grateful to Union Gas for your generous financial support of the fair," said Stripe. "On behalf of the students and committee I would like to thank you for your continued support, without which the fair would not be possible. By holding the fair each year it gives students in this rural area the opportunity to explore hands on science outside of the classroom. This leads to creative and innovative thinking by the students."

In addition to natural gas delivery services for homes and businesses and contributing to the province's economy through investment, job creation, municipal taxes and energy efficiency programs, Union Gas supports education as a way to build a skilled workforce for the future, support economic development for Aboriginal communities and encourage conservation. This value is reflected each year, as the company supports communities across Ontario through thousands of volunteer hours for local charitable and non-profit organizations, major charitable giving and sponsorships. Last year, Union Gas donated close to $3 million to community and charitable organizations in Ontario, including over $928,000 to United Way.  In addition, Union Gas employees, retirees, family and friends provided over 17,000 volunteer hours to help strengthen the communities where they live and work. For more information visit uniongas.com/community.

About East Parry Sound Regional Science Fair
The East Parry Sound Regional Science Fair has been running for over 26 years. It is a community based organization with a mission to promote an interest by youth in science and technology through the organization of a yearly regional science fair and by acknowledging creativity and achievement in science and technology. In promoting science and technology the EPSRSF involves students, teachers, community partners, local businesses and service clubs.

About Union Gas
Union Gas Limited, a Spectra Energy (NYSE: SE) company, is a major Canadian natural gas storage, transmission and distribution company based in Ontario with 100 years of experience and service to customers, assets of over $6.4 billion and approximately 2,200 employees. The distribution business serves about 1.4 million residential, commercial and industrial customers in more than 400 communities across Ontario. Union Gas is one of Canada's Top 100 Employers for 2014. For more information, visit uniongas.com or find us on Twitter: twitter.com/uniongas, Facebook: facebook.com/uniongas and YouTube: youtube.com/user/uniongas.

SOURCE: Union Gas Limited

CONTACTS:

Union Gas Limited 
Andrea Stass
Manager, External Communications and Media Relations
Ph: 519 436-5490 or 1-800-571-8446 ext. 5005490
Cell: 519 365-1010
[email protected]

East Parry Sound Regional Science Fair
Helen Weaver
Fundraising Chair
Cell: 705 471-0001
[email protected]