THUNDER BAY, Ontario, March 6, 2007 - On behalf of the Honourable Beverley J. Oda, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Status of Women, the Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Health and Minister for the Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario, today announced funding of $17,000 for the Thunder Bay Children's Festival, and $11,310 for the Northwestern Ontario Snowmobile News, a North Superior Publishing magazine.
"Canada's New Government is pleased to assist these key players on the Thunder Bay cultural scene," said Minister Oda. "I am proud to support these projects, which will allow the people of northern Ontario to enjoy rich cultural experiences."
"Our Government is committed to offering all Canadians an opportunity to appreciate the talent of our artists and the richness of our heritage," said Minister Clement. "This is why we are pleased to support two organizations that have made such a valuable contribution to stimulating the cultural vitality of your region."
"The Thunder Bay Children's Festival is very excited to receive funding from the Department of Canadian Heritage for our 15th anniversary celebrations," said Donna Perrault, a member of the Thunder Bay Children's Festival Board. "Without this funding it would not be possible for us to offer the quality entertainment and top-notch festival that we do. The department's support is greatly appreciated."
This financial support will help the Thunder Bay Children's Festival to celebrate its 15th anniversary, from June 14 to 16, 2007. The Festival will showcase a variety of artists in Thunder Bay's community auditorium. Professional Canadian musicians, dancers and entertainers will present unique and innovative shows during the three-day Festival.
The funding for North Superior Publishing will allow it to explore new business opportunities intended to increase its advertising revenue, its distribution of the Northwestern Ontario Snowmobile News magazine, and its financial sustainability.
Canada's New Government has provided this funding through Canadian Heritage's Arts Presentation Canada program and its Canada Magazine Fund.
Arts Presentation Canada seeks to give Canadians more access to direct experiences of the diversity and richness of Canada's culture through professional arts festivals, presentation of live professional performances, and other arts experiences.
The Canada Magazine Fund is intended to encourage the growth of small magazine publishers.
Information:
Véronique Bruneau
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Status of Women
819 997-7788
Erik Waddell
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Health and Minister for the Federal Economic Development Initiative for Northern Ontario
613 957-0200
Jaime Burke
A/Communications Manager
Ontario Region
Canadian Heritage
416 973-2050
