New campaign encourages Ontario residents to vacation at home

Ontarians are being encouraged to holiday at home this year by a multi-pronged campaign designed to stimulate the economy and create new jobs. The campaign was launched by tourism minister Jim Bradley using funds from the $22 million allocated to tourism in the McGuinty government’s $190 million economic stimulus package – which includes $4.5 million in new funding for Ontario festivals and events, bringing more conventions to the province, and a multi-media campaign to boost domestic tourism that includes billboards, web-based promotions and cinema and television ads. “Getting more Ontarians travelling in Ontario is the best way to increase tourism in the province this year,” says Bradley. “Our campaign is designed to help expand festivals and events and make it easier to plan your Ontario holiday, and encouraging Ontarians to explore the province.” Fifty-seven festivals and events across the province will be receiving programming funding of up to $75,000, and marketing funding up to $18,750 from the “Celebrate Ontario” initiative for total funding of as much as $93,750 each. This is a one-time funding initiative to support the growth of existing festivals and events. An on-line component is also included (after March 19) in the campaign at http://www.ontariotravel.net/, where visitors can order customized printed brochures and sign up to receive e-mails with specific vacation suggestions.

Port Darlington Waterfront Park

Found this sign on the waterfront at the east beach area, what a great idea. I'll try to get some info in the new year and post here. Hope you have a Very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Lighting the Christmas Tree

Friday night was a great winter-like night to be out for the Christmas Tree lighting. A brave crowd gathered to sing songs and enjoy the evening. Here Charles from the Museum relates what life was like 100 years ago.

Santa Claus Parade

Toady was the Santa Claus parade and it was a great event, with perfect weather. I walked with the OVERT team again this year. This picture is the Trinity United Church float, “Project Away in a Manger”. Trinity is raising money to supply an African village with animals to help make them self sufficient. It looks like we may have enough raised to supply 2 villages at this time!

Total Hockey Museum opens

Well, I'm not really a hockey fan but who could refuse a chance to go to the opening?

Family Safety Day

As a member or OVERT, I took part manning our display on Safety Day. I had a chance to view the other displays and was very impressed with the activities taking place.

Terry Fox Run

Participants round the corner on their trek around town.