JOUSSARD, Alberta, May 21, 2009 - On behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, Brian Jean, Member of Parliament (Fort McMurray-Athabasca), today announced funding that will help the Lesser Slave Lake North Community Association present its 31 st annual North Country Fair.
The Fair, which will take place from June 19 to 21, 2009, just outside of Drift Pile, Alberta, will feature more than 30 culturally diverse artists, including Aboriginal, in performances and workshops of music, theatre, dance, poetry, and children's entertainment.
"Our Government knows how essential arts and culture are to our communities and our Canadian identity," said Minister Moore. "The Lesser Slave Lake North Community Association makes an outstanding contribution to the cultural vitality of the region, and we are proud to contribute to it."
"On the occasion of the 31 st annual North Country Fair, I am proud that our Government will be lending support to this important local event," said Mr. Jean. "The community of Lesser Slave Lake is enriched by this annual gathering, and I am pleased with the Community Association's ongoing commitment to its organization and success."
"The North Country Fair, now in its 31 st year, has become a favourite event in the community and surrounding area," said Carole Weatherall, Artistic Director for the North Country Fair. "Without the generous help provided by the Government of Canada, we would find it impossible to present the quality entertainment our audience has become accustomed to."
The Lesser Slave Lake North Community Association aims to present performing arts and participatory activities that are entertaining, educational, and accessible to all members of the community.
The Government of Canada has provided $18,000 in funding through the Arts Presentation Canada Program of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program gives Canadians increased access to the diversity and richness of Canada's culture through professional arts festivals, presentations of live professional performances, and other artistic experiences.
Deirdra McCracken
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and
Official Languages
819-997-7788
deirdra.mccracken@pch.gc.ca
Ginette Montreuil
Regional Manager
Communications
Western Region
Canadian Heritage
604-666-6504
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
