Community, Sport and Cultural Development Minister Bill Bennett says after three years of work on the part of the Resort Municipality of Whistler, he is approving its Official Community Plan.

A $60,000 Community Gaming Grant provided to the Senior Citizens Club of Fernie and District will help the club upgrade and buy much-needed equipment for their facility.

A $20,000 Community Gaming Grant provided to the Sand Creek Community Club will go toward a feasibility study to determine whether a new arena and curling rink will be built in the South Country area.

A $25,000 Community Gaming Grant will help the Fernie Nordic Society begin the process of mapping and designing new trails in the Elk Valley.

The government of B.C. has committed to funding $1.3 million toward a new senior's centre in Southeast Vancouver.

The Kamloops Legacy Performance Games will include disability sports thanks to provincial government funding.

Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development Bill Bennett encouraged education and awareness about youth bodychecking for parents, coaches, and all involved in youth hockey.

Non-profit arts and cultural organizations, First Nations band councils and friendship centres in B.C. will share $2.384 million in grants for 118 projects through two new arts programs.

Thirty-eight local sport organizations and Aboriginal communities in northern B.C. are benefiting from grants of up to $5,000 each through the Northern Sport Strategy Initiative.

The 14th annual BC Arts and Culture Week, April 21-27, will offer British Columbians great opportunities to enjoy exciting arts events in communities throughout the province.