For Immediate Release
June 29, 2005
MCGUINTY GOVERNMENT INVESTING IN LOCAL TOURISM
Festivals And Events Help Build A Strong And Prosperous Economy
KINGSTON – John Gerretsen MPP for Kingston and The Islands today announced funding in the amount of $12,000 to help market the 1000 Islands Poker Run.
“Today’s funding announcement demonstrates our governments commitment to supporting community festivals, events and attractions that promote tourism,” said MPP John Gerretsen. “Events like the 1000 Islands Poker Run give an economic boost to Kingston area businesses, and provide a memorable experience for our residents and visitors.”
The Tourism Event Marketing Partnership Program (TEMPP) funding will be used to market the 16th annual 1000 Islands Poker Run taking place August 11th – 14th. The Poker Run is the largest boat rally of its kind and runs through Kingston, Brockville, Prescott and Rockport Ontario. Last year an estimated 60,000 people visited Kingston to watch the Run and this year event organizers expect attendance to exceed 65,000 people. The funding investment announced today will be used to promote the event through radio and print advertising into the City of Montreal and U.S. markets.
“The 1000 Islands Poker Run is a great event that showcases Kingston’s beautiful waterfront landscape, “said Gerretsen. “I want to congratulate those involved organizing this event and the volunteers who are working hard to make sure it is a great success.”
“A healthy tourism industry supports Ontario’s high quality of life,” said Jim Bradley, Minister of Tourism and Recreation. “Festivals and events increase tourism, bringing new visitors to communities across Ontario, contributing to a strong and prosperous economy.”
The 1000 Islands Poker Run is among a growing number of Ontario events and festivals sponsored under the Ontario Tourism Marketing Partnership Corporation's Tourism Event Marketing Partnership Program. By assisting local organizations to showcase their events to the people of Ontario and our neighbours, TEMPP encourages increased tourism and strengthens Ontario's tourism industry.
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