VERNON, British Columbia – Residents and visitors to Vernon will have an opportunity to take part in the Cowboy Festival, thanks to an investment by the Government of Canada.

Colin Mayes, Member of Parliament (Okanagan–Shuswap), on behalf of the Honourable Josée Verner, Minister of Canadian Heritage, Status of Women and Official Languages and Minister for La Francophonie, today announced funding for the Cowboy Festival.

Funding of $7,500 will help the O’Keefe Ranch and Interior Heritage Society host the Cowboy Festival, which will take place from July 29 to August 3, 2008. The festival will showcase the rich cultural heritage of the historic O’Keefe Ranch and will feature local amateur and professional artists and artisans.

“The Government of Canada is pleased to announce funding for the Cowboy Festival,” said Minister Verner. “We are proud to partner with communities to support activities that celebrate local history, arts, and heritage.”

“Local festivals like this one bring people of all ages and backgrounds together and contribute to building strong communities,” said Mr. Mayes. “I am proud that our Government has taken decisive steps to strengthen our shared sense of heritage.”
         
The Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program, announced in September 2007, provides Canadians with more opportunities to take part in events and activities that present local arts and culture and celebrate local history and heritage. This program will benefit many community events and anniversaries throughout Canada this year.