HEARST, Ontario, February 9, 2009 - On behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, the Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Industry and Member of Parliament (Parry Sound-Muskoka), is pleased to announce funding for the organizing committee of the Carnaval de Hearst. This funding will help residents and visitors to Hearst to enjoy the work of local craftspeople and snow sculptors, and performances by local musicians. This year's carnival will be held from February 6 to 15.
For 16 years, residents and visitors to Hearst have celebrated the community and local culture through the annual Carnaval de Hearst. This winter festival features a number of activities including snowmobile races, snowball fights, and snowshoeing. It celebrates the beauty of living in a northern climate and helps promote tourism during a typically slow period.
"Our Government is proud to partner with communities to support activities that celebrate their local history, arts, and heritage," said Minister Moore. "Over the next two years, we will be investing an unprecedented amount of funding in festivals like this one, which bring people together and help strengthen the local economy."
"The Carnaval de Hearst draws members of the community and surrounding area together," said Minister Clement. "It promotes a strong sense of pride in the community and demonstrates an ongoing commitment to celebrating Canada's rich and diverse culture."
"Government of Canada funding allows us to promote the Carnaval de Hearst in our area and throughout Northern Ontario," said Sylvie Gauthier, Chair of the Carnaval de Hearst. "The funds provide people in Hearst and the surrounding area with an opportunity to express themselves individually or in groups, through winter sports or the arts."
The Government of Canada has provided funding of $18,100 through the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program. This program of the Department of Canadian Heritage helps give Canadians new opportunities to take part in activities that present local arts and culture and celebrate local history and heritage. This program will benefit many community events and historic anniversaries in Canada this year.
Information:
Deirdra McCracken
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages
819-997-7788
deirdra.mccracken@pch.gc.ca Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
