Press Release

Ontario Convention Center Generates $2.4 Million in Economic Impact

Ontario, Calif., March 5, 2009 – Despite tight budgets and the recession, Ontario Convention Center is set to host nine events, attract 20,000 people and generate more than $2.4 million in economic impact for local businesses in March.

"When we're busy, local businesses benefit; people who attend events, conventions and shows spend at local restaurants, hotels and shops, it's a win-win situation," General Manager and CEO Bob Brown said. "Ontario is a value destination and I'm optimistic that our central location in Southern California and our state-of-the-art center will keep us busy through these tough times and continue to help our local businesses."

Scheduled events include the California Community College Foundation Tech Ed 2009 Conference March 23-25, the Xtreme Spirit Western National Championship March 28-29 and the Gannett Healthcare Nurseweek Career Fair 2009 March 31. The three events will attract 10,000 people and generate $731,836 in economic impact.

"During our last fiscal year the center generated more than $28 million in actualized economic impact; that's a 2.5 percent increase over the prior year," Brown said. "I hope that we can continue that trend this year and I look forward to meeting that challenge."

For more information about the Ontario Convention Center, operated by Philadelphia-based SMG, visit www.ontariocc.com.