Government of Canada Invests in Festi-Vent sur glace

SAINT-PLACIDE, QUEBEC--(Marketwire - Jan. 25, 2011) - The 13^th Festi-Vent sur glace, which will be held on February 19 and 20, will receive funding from the Government of Canada. The announcement was made by the Honourable Claude Carignan, Senator (Mille Isles), on behalf of the Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.

Once again, citizens of Saint-Placide and beyond can admire the many forms and colours of kites flying in the Laurentians sky. Festival goers will also enjoy two lively days of music and dance shows, artistic performances, exhibitions, and activities for children. More than 40 artists will take part in the 2011 Festi-Vent sur glace, and about 150 volunteers will help make it happen.

"One of the best ways to bring communities together is by inviting them to participate in popular local artistic events that display creative diversity and talent," said Minister Moore. "The Festi-Vent sur glace does just that. Our Government is pleased to be associated with events that play an important role in citizens' lives and the local economy."

"By investing in culture, the Government of Canada is enabling citizens to become more aware of the value of their shared local heritage, and, thanks to this support, the Festi-Vent sur glace can organize, year after year, dynamic activities that attract families, neighbours, and visitors and promote artists and artisans from the Laurentian region," said Senator Carignan.

"We would like to thank Canadian Heritage, whose generosity will allow us to offer more interesting activities for families," said Stéphanie Bergot, Executive Director of the Festi-Vent sur glace. "Thanks to this grant, we are able to add colourful activities for the young and not so young. May the good winds blow you to Saint-Placide on February 19 and 20 to be uplifted by winter!"

The main mandate of the Festi-Vent sur glace organization is to contribute to culture and recreation in Saint-Placide in the Laurentians region of Quebec. The group also organizes this annual winter festival of kites.

The Government of Canada has provided funding of $9,700 under the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program. This program provides Canadians with more opportunities to take part in activities that present local arts and culture and celebrate local history and heritage.

(This news release is also available on the Internet at www.canadianheritage.gc.ca under Media Room.)