Province Congratulates Gary Beals

Premier John Hamm and Tourism and Culture Minister Rodney MacDonald offered congratulations today, Sept. 17, to 20-year-old Gary Beals on behalf of all Nova Scotians.

Mr. Beals, from Cherry Brook, was the runner up in the final round of the Canadian Idol contest, a popular TV show aired on CTV. Ryan Malcolm of Kingston, Ont. received more votes than Mr. Beals and was awarded the title Tuesday night.

"All Nova Scotians are tremendously proud of Gary," said Premier Hamm. "Not only is he a model of talent and dedication for other young artists, he has created a legacy in his community and throughout Nova Scotia that will be tough to match. I have no doubt that he will go on to achieve great things with his music. We are so very proud of him."

"Gary has been a superb ambassador for Nova Scotia and has carried himself extremely well during this long, arduous competition," said Mr. MacDonald. "Without a doubt, he has distinguished himself in a province that has an established tradition of great music and talent."

Gary Beals made it to the final round of the contest, which started last spring with 15,000 amateur singers from across Canada trying to become a star.