For the past two years, my aunt has treated me to the “Can Am Jazz Jam”:https://www.ontbluecoast.com/events/can-am-jazz-jam/ at the Best Western Guildwood Inn in Point Edward, Ontario for my birthday. This is a special treat because she doesn’t really like jazz but even she has enjoyed it. This year marked the 17th year for the annual event which usually takes place on a Sunday afternoon from 1-5 pm. Ticket price is $25. During the show there is a cash bar service in the room and light snacks are provided on the tables (crisps, nuts, pretzels).
For the past six years the festival is put on in conjunction with the Sarnia Community Foundation as a fundraiser for a variety of organizations. The aim this year was to target funding for secondary schools to address issues such as mental health and to continue providing scholarships for local youth. In addition to the ticket sales, raffle tickets are sold during the performance. A maximum of 500 tickets are sold for the raffle; $5 each or 3 tickets for $10. First prize was a $250 Hotel/Show voucher; second prize was a $200 wine basket; third prize was a $130 dinner/show voucher; and fourth prize was a $100 vintner’s package. Sadly we did not win anything. Last year my aunt won a door prize; a hot pepper plant, and yes, the peppers were very hot as her granddaughter’s friend found out to her dismay.
On the program this year were The Jitterbugs, who had everyone jumping in their seats, and Denise Pelley, both from London, Ontario. In the last set the two acts joined together to entertain the crowd. Last year was Jon Seiger and the All Stars and The Jitterbugs. It was a delightful way to spend a sunny summer afternoon. Great to hear wonderful musicians enjoying playing their music as much as we enjoyed listening to it.
