Member of Parliament Barry Devolin Announces Support for Cannington Dog Sled Races and Winter Festival

CANNINGTON, ON, Oct. 23, 2013 /CNW/ - Barry Devolin, Member of Parliament (Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock), on behalf of the Honourable Shelly Glover, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, today announced funding for the Cannington Dog Sled Races and Winter Festival.

"From ice sculpting to authentic Aboriginal food to dog sled races, there is something for everyone at the Cannington Festival," said Mr. Devolin. "This festival makes me look forward to January, and I invite you to take part in this celebration of our culture, history, and heritage."

This funding will support the 10^th edition of the Annual Cannington Dog Sled Races and Winter Festival, which will take place in late January 2014 in the Township of Brock, Ontario. In addition to the races, the festival features live music and presentations of traditional Métis culture.

"This festival attracts visitors and racers from all over North America and has already become a tradition in this area," said Minister Glover. "Our Government is proud to support an event that not only promotes and celebrates diverse cultural traditions, but also brings an economic boost to this region."

"The funding received from the Department of Canadian Heritage is a key factor in allowing us to present Aboriginal culture and history, and support local artists and musicians," said Alison Bennie and Ben Deith, event organizers and committee members, on behalf of the Annual Cannington Dog Sled Races and Winter Festival Committee. "It also allows us to actively engage the community, foster volunteerism, and draw a diverse crowd from the surrounding area to experience and learn about our local history through re-enactors, storytellers, dance, and music."

The Government of Canada has provided funding of $17,300 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.

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SOURCE: Canadian Heritage

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