NEWS RELEASE          For release June 25, 2008

Thanks to our sponsors

Southampton, Ont., June 25, 2008 -- The 150th anniversary celebrations are made possible by the hard work of a large team of volunteers, plus funding from government and local sponsors.

A $94,800 federal grant came from Heritage Canada and its "Building Communities through Arts and Heritage" program. The grant is for local artists and heritage promotion. It must be spent on local artists, musicians, performers, historical costuming, etc., The federal grant doesn't cover infrastructure such as fencing, stage construction, security and toilet facilities, which is why sponsors are needed.

The position of Special Events Coordinator was filled thanks to Employment Ontario's Job Creation Partnership. It's a program of the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities. The Employment Ontario contribution has a total value of $26,640.

Community support is essential for a major undertaking like the 150th anniversary. Here are some examples of special support from local sponsors:

Sponsor	Special Support
Bruce County Museum	Incorporation Day Reception
Burke's Foodland	Beef Bash BBQ Dinner
Chippewa Golf & Country Club	150th Golf Tournament Sponsor
DC Johnston Royal LePage	Main Stage, "Royal LePage DC Johnston Realty Stage"
Johnston & Nagel	Roller Skating
Martins Bicycle Shop	BMX Dirt Bike Demo
OLG	Antique Car Show
Optimists	Beach Volleyball Tournament
Pelee Island Winery	Wine Sponsor
Steelback Brewery	Beer Sponsor
Thorncrest Outfitters	150th Canoe and Kayak Regatta

The 150th Anniversary Committee would like to thank the many sponsors who have stepped forward to support the celebrations marking Southampton's 150th anniversary. If you would like to be a sponsor, contact Duncan McCallum, 519-797-2043.