Duncan McCallum

Southampton's upcoming 150th anniversary celebrations had a little pressure taken off when the organzing committee was notified it had received a $94,800 grant last week from the Federal Government through Saugeen Shores Chamber of Commerce. The grant is in specific support of the arts and cultural and heritage events.

"The Government of Canada is pleased to announce funding for the Southampton 150th Anniversary Celebration," said Minister of Heritage, Josee Verner. "We are proud to partner with communities to support activities that celebrate local history, arts and heritage."
 

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According to the 150th Committee's Media Relations spokesperson, Duncan McCallum, "The grant was applied for last fall after identifying all the components where monies would be needed, such as, the hiring of a person to oversee the marketing and promotions of the celebrations.  In addition, it was recognized that money would be needed for local musicians and performers to perform at various functions.  The grant is entirely separate from infrastructure requirements, such as signage and sponsorship recognition, and a complete audit is required at the end."

McCallum adds that, "The town has also been very generous, often providng the free use of various facilities for events."

Despite the Committee's good fortune in receiving the grant, fundraising and sponsorship will continue through the year until the final celebrations are held in August.