SAINT-ISIDORE, Alberta, February 4, 2008 - On behalf of the Honourable Josée Verner, Minister of Canadian Heritage, Status of Women and Official Languages, Chris Warkentin, Member of Parliament (Peace River), today announced funding for the Comité Culturel de Saint-Isidore.
Funding of $7, 673 will be used by the Comité Culturel de Saint-Isidore for its 26th annual Carnaval in celebration of this vibrant small community's Francophone culture. The Carnaval, which will take place from February 12 to 17, 2008, includes snow sculptures, sleigh rides, a cabane à sucre (sugar shack), musical entertainment, a masquerade, and many more outdoor and indoor activities. There are special activities specifically for students from February 12 to 14.
"I am pleased the Government of Canada is supporting the Comité Culturel de Saint-Isidore," said Minister Verner. "This organization celebrates Canada's rich Francophone heritage and provides opportunities for Canadians to participate in the cultural life of their communities."
"This new funding provides citizens with opportunities to take part in activities that celebrate Canadian arts and heritage," said Mr. Warkentin. "The Government of Canada is proud to support local community organizations in their efforts to provide all Canadians with access to festivals that celebrate this country's diversity."
"This funding comes at a great time for the Comité culturel and the Carnaval de Saint-Isidore. It will help us to better understand and appreciate the great contributions of our local artists to the cultural and community development of our region," said Françoise Lavoie, President of the Comité culturel de Saint-Isidore. "This is an excellent partnership that enhances the ability of our small organization to make a real difference in the quality of life in our community."
Since 1982, the Comité Culturel de Saint-Isidore's Carnaval has brought together Francophone and non-Francophone Canadians of all ages to experience the unique culture of Franco-Albertans.
The Government of Canada has provided this grant under the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage Program of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This new program, announced in September 2007, provides Canadians with more opportunities to take part in local activities that present arts and culture and celebrate local history and heritage. This program will benefit many community events and celebrations in Canada throughout the coming year.
The Government of Canada is committed to building stronger communities and to providing all Canadians with opportunities to get involved in their communities and in the celebration of Canadian arts and heritage.
Information:
Dominic Gosselin
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage,
Status of Women and Official Languages
819 997-7788
Ginette Montreuil
Regional Manager
Communications
Western Region
Canadian Heritage
604 666-6504
Donald Boulanger
A/Chief, Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819 994-9101
