Local festivals get nearly $70K boost

Three festivals in town—including the recently announced Rock on the River—is getting a good chunk of money from the province.

The total, combined, funds total $69,276.

This is part of $15.3-million to support 200 festivals and events across Ontario.

The Great Canadian Kayak Challenge will get the bulk of it, at $42,201.

Rock on the River, an event put on by the Timmins Festivals and Events Committee, gathers $14,250 and the Porcupine Agricultural Fall Fair trucks in $12,825.

John Olavesen from the Timmins Festivals and Events Committee is pretty happy, according to a Tweet he sent out earlier.

@TimminsFestival received Celebrate Ontario funding!!! Huge shout out to @TimminsChamber without them it wouldn't of been possible !!!

— John Olaveson (@Johnnyo5150) April 21, 2016

Michael Coteau, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport, was joined by representatives from Peterborough Musicfest, one of North America’s largest free outdoor music festivals, which is receiving support for its 30th anniversary season for the overall announcement Monday.

“Festivals and events showcase Ontario’s culture, heritage and diversity,” the media release read, “This investment will help organizers to enhance their programs, activities and services so they can attract more tourists and increase visitor spending.

Investing in festivals and events is part of the government’s economic plan to build Ontario up and deliver on its number-one priority to grow the economy and create jobs. The four-part plan includes investing in talent and skills, including helping more people get and create the jobs of the future by expanding access to high-quality college and university education. The plan is making the largest investment in public infrastructure in Ontario’s history and investing in a low-carbon economy driven by innovative, high-growth, export-oriented businesses. The plan is also helping working Ontarians achieve a more secure retirement.”