Mr. Speaker, Albertans are demonstrating that they are willing to support the arts without massive federal assistance. Yesterday the Toronto based Council for Business and the Arts in Canada announced the winners of the 17th annual Business in the Arts awards. I am so pleased to announce that Big Rock Breweries from my riding of Calgary Southeast has received the award for community support.
The shrinking budgets in all areas of our economy demand we seek new, innovative and creative ways of accessing funds, including the cultural sector. Big Rock Breweries from Alberta is leading the way as a private sector supporter for the arts. Last year Big Rock provided over $100,000 to over 40 different arts groups. It views its cultural support as a wise business practice and not as a charitable donation.
Thanks to the support of Big Rock Breweries, groups like the Alberta Theatre Project and the Muttard Public Art Gallery are thriving. Albertans indeed are leading the way in private sector support for the cultural sector. I applaud Big Rock Breweries.