Leamington tomato festival receives federal funding

May 20, 2010

Leamington, Ontario - Today Dave Van Kesteren Member of Parliament for Chatham-Kent Essex announced the Leamington Tomato Festival will be receiving $20,700.00 in federal funding towards the operational costs of the popular summer festival.

“The federal government is proud to sponsor this local festival as it has become an important weekend for businesses in Leamington with the increase of visitors as well as for the residents of Leamington who benefit from the heightened sense of community this annual festival brings,” said MP Van Kesteren.
   
“The organizers genuinely appreciate the opportunities afforded through the Heritage Canada grant which now allows us to reach out to the greater community to involve them in the Tomato Festival's activities and events. Much thanks and appreciation to Dave Van Kesteren for his support and assistance,” said Dave Campbell, Chair, Leamington Tomato Festival. Stan Brophey, Vice chair added, ““This is great!  What a wonderful opportunity for the Festival to engage and share the richness in the diversities of our community.”
   
The Government of Canada created the Building Communities Through Arts and Heritage program in September 2007. This program provides Canadians with more opportunities to take part in local activities that present arts and culture and celebrate local history and heritage. The program will benefit many community events and celebrations throughout Canada this year.
   
The Leamington Tomato Festival runs from August 20the until August 22nd and includes a parade, pageant, a center stage with continual live entertainment along with many other annual activities associated with the Tomato Festival.  For more information on the Festival please visit www.leamingtontomatofestival.com or call 519-326-2878.