PLASTER ROCK (GNB) – The provincial government's 2014 Buy Local initiative is getting an early start this year by partnering with one of the province's largest winter sporting and tourism events - the World Pond Hockey Championship in Plaster Rock.
About 700 hockey players and journalists from across North America, and as far away as Australia, will experience a new event on the opening day of the tournament - a Taste of New Brunswick welcome reception on Feb. 13. The reception will feature local producers and a chef serving up some of New Brunswick's best natural and value-added products and flavours.
“We not only play some of the best hockey in the world, we also have some of the highest-quality natural and value-added products in the world, like seafood and cheeses, as well as some of the most innovative entrepreneurs and businesses,” said Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries Minister Michael Olscamp. “We want to promote our local products and producers. By supporting local, we also contribute to creating jobs and strengthening the economy.”
A total of 120 teams compete in the four-day pond hockey event and more than 8,000 spectators will visit Plaster Rock from Feb. 13 to Feb. 16.
“The World Pond Hockey Tournament is a great way for New Brunswickers and visitors to enjoy our province as a year-round tourism destination,” said Tourism, Heritage and Culture Minister Trevor Holder. “Our government is pleased to take this opportunity to give participants a warm welcome while showcasing the best of what New Brunswick has to offer.”
The reception is being hosted by the Department of Tourism, Heritage and Culture, and the Department of Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries. The following local producers and products will be represented through Real Food Connections of Fredericton:
● Jolly Farmer (raw milk sharp cheeses, granola);
● Chocolaterie Facklemann (handmade chocolates);
● A Acadien Atlantic (smoked salmon paté);
● Chickadee Larder Gourmet Condiments (BBQ sauce and mustard);
● Springbrook Cranberry Inc. (Organic cranberry products, value-added);
● Covered Bridge Potato Chips;
● Down East Coffee Roasters (espresso);
● Roland's Sea Vegetables (dulse); and
● Real Food Creations (a selection of chef-made delicacies).
The True North Salmon Company based in St. George will also participate with their smoked salmon.