U.S. Sen. Brown supports VWIFF
Times Bulletin – U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown offered his support to the Van Wert Independent Film Festival (VWIFF) that is offering prospects to bring tourism dollars to the town.
Brown, R-Ohio, sent a letter of support to the film festival’s organizers — including Executive Director, Len Archibald — who are looking for creative ways to fund the project that is supported by The Northwest Ohio Film Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. The Foundation is also counting on the support of U.S. Rep. Lynn Wachtmann (R-Ohio) and U.S. Senator Rob Portman (R-Ohio) as well.
According to Brown’s office, the festival to take place at the Niswonger Performing Arts Center the weekend of July 8, 2011 is “…a chance to attract tourism and an influx of other economic opportunities as well.” Current Mayor, Louis Ehmer has also gone on record to support the endeavor.
The Northwest Ohio Film Foundation will host a “Launch” Fundraiser to help garner financial support for the festival on Saturday, April 9, 2011 at the Van Wert Banquet Hall and Convention Center. Tickets are on sale now for $20 and can be purchased at the Pitt Stop or the Chamber of Commerce in Van Wert, Westside Carryout in Celina and The Fort in Fort Jennings. Brown goes on record to say that Ohio is on a trend of slower population growth compared to other states. “By developing attractions like the VWIFF,” he states, “we can help reverse this trend and put a stop to brain drain.”
