Woodstock, Ontario — Dave MacKenzie, Member of Parliament for Oxford and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Public Safety, today was pleased to announce $6,200.00 for the Kaleid Choral Festival 2010, presented by the Woodstock Fanshawe Singers.

The Woodstock Fanshawe Singers is a local unincorporated volunteer-run organization. From May 5 to May 8, 2010 (target dates), it will present the 5th edition of The Kaleid Choral Festival in Woodstock and London, Ontario. Festival activities include workshops and choral performances by local artists. This year the Kaleid Choral Festival will see an estimated 500 participants in London and an estimated 350 participants in Woodstock. The festival will also host international guest Ragatont, an A cappella group from Finland.

“Our Government is proud to support the Woodstock Fanshawe Singers,” said Minister Moore. “By partnering with communities to support activities that celebrate our shared history and our rich cultural diversity, we are fulfilling our commitment to strengthen our communities and support arts, culture and heritage.”

“The festival is in its’ fifth year now, and is really developing an energy of its own, people keep coming back”, said Jim Harrison, Chair of the Board of the Woodstock Fanshawe Singers. “It is exciting and thrilling that the federal government deemed it worthwhile”.

“Canada’s government is taking steps to strengthen communities through the celebration of their local arts and heritage. The ‘Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program brings together neighbours and visitors alike to take part in activities that showcase culture and history. Therefore, I am pleased to be able to announce this federalcontribution to the Kaleid Choral Festival 2010”, said MacKenzie.