CHURCHILL, Manitoba, March 20, 2009 - On behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, the Honourable Vic Toews, President of the Treasury Board and Member of Parliament (Provencher), today announced funding for Aurora Winterfest 2009.
This annual event features local artists showcasing fiddling, square-dancing, singing, and jigging. It also features Aboriginal drumming by the Sayisi Dene Drummers, snow sculptures, igloo building, dog mushing, and other traditional winter activities.
"The Aurora Winterfest brings residents and visitors together to celebrate the culture, history, and heritage of the northern region of Manitoba," said Minister Moore. "These celebrations are important to the community's cultural and economic vitality."
"I am proud that our Government can provide financial assistance to this organization, which supports local artists, artisans, and heritage performers," said Minister Toews. "I applaud the work of the local volunteers and festival organizers who contribute to Aurora Winterfest's success."
"Once again, Churchill's Premier Festival, the Aurora Winterfest, is underway, and a whole week of events celebrating where we live and our unique cultures awaits us," said Louise Lawrie, Coordinator of the Aurora Winterfest. "We would like to thank the Government of Canada for their support and we invite the whole country to our part of the world to experience, to absorb, and to enjoy our part of Canada."
The 11th annual Aurora Winterfest takes place from March 21 to April 4, 2009, at many venues in the town of Churchill. More than 30 local artists will perform in various artistic disciplines or in heritage presentations.
The Government of Canada has provided funding of $9,900 through the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage Program of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program gives Canadians more opportunities to take part in activities that highlight 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: Stephanie Rea
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and
Official Languages
819-997-7788
stephanie.rea@pch.gc.ca Francine D. Lefebvre
A/Director
Communications and
Executive Services
Prairies and Northern Region
Canadian Heritage
204-983-4367
francine.lefebvre@pch.gc.ca Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
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