Funding of $20,000 secured by state Sen. Patty Ritchie, R-Heuvelton, will support Waddington’s hosting of the Evan Williams Bourbon Bassmaster Elite tournament at the St. Lawrence River this week.

Ritchie’s Senate district includes northwestern St. Lawrence County.

Elsewhere in the county, Ritchie has announced support for fishing programs in

• Town of Oswegatchie: $7,500

• City of Ogdensburg: $15,000

• St. Lawrence Valley Sportsmen’s Club: $5,000

• St. Lawrence River Walleye Association: $10,000

• Northern New York Junior Bassmasters: $2,500

for a grand total of $60,000.

“Whether you’re a competitive angler or someone who likes to fish for fun, there’s no disputing that fishing is a big part of our way of life here in Central and Northern New York,” said Ritchie.

“And, it’s more than just an enjoyable sport. Fishing provides a major boost to our local economy, helping to support small businesses and create jobs here locally. I’m pleased to be able to deliver this funding, which will help to promote our local fishing tourneys and encourage more people—both locally and from out of the area—to take advantage of all our region has to offer.”

“This year, we are thrilled to once again welcome some of the nation’s top anglers to Waddington for the Evan Williams Bourbon Bassmaster Elite at the St. Lawrence River tournament,” said Waddington Mayor Janet Otto Cassada.

“Thanks to these large scale tournaments, more and more people are learning just how awesome the St. Lawrence River is for fishing and other sports,” she said. “We couldn’t be more grateful for funding secured by Senator Ritchie, which will help us spread the message that the North Country is the place to be when it comes to outdoor recreation.”

Ritchie’s announcement says she has been a strong supporter in recent years of New York State’s $1.8 billion fishing industry. Last year, she found $150,000 for tournaments throughout the region she represents.