LUMBY, British Columbia, April 19, 2008 - Lumby-area residents and visitors will have an opportunity to see and hear local artists this summer, thanks to an investment by the Government of Canada.
Colin Mayes, Member of Parliament (Okanagan-Shuswap), on behalf of the Honourable Josée Verner, Minister of Canadian Heritage, Status of Women and Official Languages, today announced funding for the Monashee Arts Council Society.
The Society will receive funding of $4,000 to stage the Lumby Days Festival from June 13 to15. This annual festival offers public art displays, art demonstrations and workshops, and live performances by local musical and dance groups. The Festival's activities also include a gala opening show with live performances and multimedia demonstrations.
"The Government of Canada is pleased to announce funding for this festival," said Minister Verner. "We are proud to partner with communities to support activities that celebrate local history, arts, and heritage."
"Local festivals like this one bring people of all ages and backgrounds together and contribute to building strong communities," said Mr. Mayes. "The Government of Canada is proud to support local community organizations in their efforts to provide Canadians with access to festivals that celebrate the diversity of cultural expression in Canada."
The Monashee Arts Council Lumby Days Festival will showcase artists and artisans that commemorate local history and heritage through a variety of events and activities. These events are inclusive, accessible, and open to the general public, encouraging the participation of everyone in the community.
The new Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage (BCAH) 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 celebrating 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
