MCGUINTY GOVERNMENT HELPS THE OSHAWA JAZZ AND BLUES FESTIVAL
ATTRACT LARGER AUDIENCES

OSHAWA — The McGuinty government is helping promote the 6th annual Oshawa Jazz and Blues Festival, August 6 – 12, through an investment of $10,000 for radio advertising in Ontario and New York, Tourism Minister Jim Bradley announced today.

“The Ontario government is pleased to help the Oshawa Jazz and Blues Festival to attract more visitors,” said Bradley. “Supporting festivals, events and attractions provides an economic boost to communities across the province, and memorable experiences for our visitors.”

The Oshawa Jazz and Blues Festival is expected to draw more than 10,000 people to hear national jazz award winner Heather Bambrick, Jack DeKeyzer, Sultans of Swing, Jazz Divas Showcase and Swing Rosie.  There will also be a dinner cruise, a music stage featuring local artists, and a children’s performance. 

“We’re delighted the Ontario government recognizes how important the Oshawa Jazz and Blues Festival is to the cultural and economic development of our community,” said Kerri King, president and chief executive officer of Eclipse Concerts. “With the support of the Ministry of Tourism we’ll be able to attract more visitors and encourage continued growth of the festival as a major summer event for the Region of Durham.”

The Oshawa Jazz and Blues Festival is among dozens of events and festivals supported by the Ontario government.  Marketing support for these events encourages increased tourism and strengthens Ontario's tourism industry by assisting local organizations to promote their events to the people of Ontario and beyond. 

“A healthy tourism industry supports Ontario’s high quality of life,” said Bradley. “Festivals and events increase tourism, bringing new visitors to communities across Ontario, supporting small businesses and creating jobs.”

– 30 –

Contacts:
David Oved, Minister’s Office, (416) 314-1400
Gary Wheeler, Communications Branch, (416) 325-8391