THUNDERBAY, Ontario, February 11, 2008 -- On behalf of the Honourable Josée Verner, Minister of Canadian Heritage, Status of Women and Official Languages, the Honourable Joe Comuzzi, Member of Parliament (Thunder Bay-Superior North), today announced funding for the Hearst Carnival.
Funding of $12,000 will be used for the annual Hearst Carnival. This festival provides an opportunity for area residents to participate in their community and engage with local artisans.
"The Government of Canada is proud to support the Hearst Carnival, one of the first festivals to receive funding under the new Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program," said Minister Verner. "We are proud to partner with communities to support activities that celebrate local history and heritage."
"Local festivals like the Hearst Carnival bring people of all ages and backgrounds together and contribute to building strong communities," said Mr. Comuzzi. "I am proud that our Government has taken decisive steps to strengthen our shared sense of heritage."
"These funds will be used to develop the arts and culture in the community, to promote and develop local talents. We would like to thank Canadian Heritage, since without their contribution it would be impossible for us to hold an event that will promote and expand the arts in the community and make them more visible," said Sylvie Gauthier, President of the Hearst Carnival. "Thanks to this investment, we will be able to encourage artists to continue to contribute to the community's artistic development."
The new Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage 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
Maya Kane
Manager, Regional Communications
Ontario Region
Canadian Heritage
416 954-6615
Donald Boulanger
A/Chief, Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819 994-9101
