TROIS-RIVIÈRES, Quebec, June 4, 2009 - On behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, the Honourable Denis Lebel, Minister of State (Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec) and Member of Parliament (Roberval-Lac-Saint-Jean), today announced funding for the Comité récréotouristique de Pointe-du-Lac for the Rendez-vous des coureurs des bois de Trois-Rivières, which will take place on July 4 and 5, 2009.
Music, dance, storytelling, Aboriginal culture, and historical recreations of the time of New France will be on display at this regional event. The Rendez-vous, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, will also feature about 75 local artists, artisans, and performers, as well as about 60 volunteers.
"The Rendez-vous offers residents of Trois-Rivières and visitors to the city the opportunity to relive moments from local heritage, as well as the opportunity to pass it on," said Minister Moore. "Events like this promote participation in our communities and help increase their vitality."
"Residents of Trois-Rivières have reason to be proud of their region and to celebrate their sense of belonging to a place they can call their own," said Minister of State Lebel. "Our Government encourages events like this that give citizens the opportunity to take part in activities that pay tribute to their history and highlight local artists and artisans."
The Government of Canada has approved funding of $12,000 under the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage Program of the Department of Canadian Heritage. This program provides Canadians with more opportunities to take part in activities that present local arts and culture and celebrate local history and heritage.
Deirdra McCracken
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages
819-997-7788
deirdra.mccracken@pch.gc.ca
Éric Amyot
Director, Regional Communications
Quebec Region
Canadian Heritage
514-283-4027
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
