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.

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.

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.

Twenty-one B.C. communities will benefit from government grants geared to the development of local sport programs.

The government of British Columbia is providing an additional $1 million to Creative BC bringing the total new contribution to the society to $2 million and enhancing its ability to focus on priorities areas.

As a signatory of the Climate Action Charter, communities throughout B.C. received more than $6.2 million with the latest round of grants through the Climate Action Revenue Incentive Program.

The B.C. government is contributing $100,000 to the Ford World Men's Curling Championship, announced Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation Ida Chong during the celebration of the opening ceremony.

Communities throughout B.C. will share more than $20 million with the latest instalment of the Strategic Community Investment Fund (SCIF) announced Bill Bennett, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development.

Premier Christy Clark presented Frank Leonard and Lisa Seed with the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal in recognition of their significant achievements and distinguished service to their fellow citizens, on behalf of Community, Sport and Cultural Development Minister Bill Bennett.