NEW WESTMINISTER, British Columbia, September 25, 2010 -The Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, today announced funding for the Fraser River Discovery Centre.
This funding will support the 3rd annual BC Rivers Day Festival taking place September 25 and 26, 2010, in New Westminster. This diverse community event will include live music, children's entertainment, interactive arts and crafts stations, and presentations by historians. Free events and performances will be presented along the Fraser River waterfront at Westminster Quay Boardwalk, the Quay Plaza, and the Fraser River Discovery Centre.
"This festival will provide residents with access to a variety of cultural and artistic experiences, while strengthening community ties," said Minister Moore. "Our Government is proud to support an organization that engages Canadians through the performing arts and in the expression and celebration of local heritage."
"The Fraser River Discovery Centre is grateful for the support of Canadian Heritage, which has allowed the BC Rivers Day Festival to grow bigger each year," said Shannon King, Education Coordinator. "Each artist, musician, and organization participating in the festival has been inspired by the Fraser River. Our hope is that visitors will leave inspired to learn more about this amazing river."
Established in 1989, the Fraser River Discovery Centre is recognized as a centre of excellence that both stimulates the community's interest in the Fraser River and provides educational opportunities to nourish this interest. In presenting stories about the river through rotating exhibits and hands-on public programs, the Centre highlights the river's contribution to the life, history, and future of British Columbia and its people.
The Government of Canada has provided funding of $13,600 through 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.
For more information (media only), please contact:
Jean-Luc Benoît
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
and Official Languages
819-997-7788
jean-luc.benoit@pch.gc.ca
Perry Boldt
A/Regional Manager
Communications
Western Region
Canadian Heritage
604-666-5739
Media Relations
Canadian Heritage
819-994-9101
1-866-569-6155
media@pch.gc.ca
