Oshawa Pays Its Debt To Tv Host Stephen Colbert

Despite losing a bet with U.S. talk-show host Stephen Colbert, it was Oshawa’s turn to shine on March 20, 2007.

Over 3,000 were on hand to celebrate Stephen Colbert Day in Oshawa at the “Grin and Bear It” Festival in the new General Motors Centre.

It was no coincidence that the event fell on Oshawa Mayor Gray’s birthday. As a result of a wager with Colbert, Gray had to declare March 20 in Oshawa "Stephen Colbert Day".

"Mr. Colbert, you think you have defeated Oshawa. You think you have the upper hand. Take a close look at our collective grins," said Mayor Gray on stage. "Over 180 media outlets across North America have covered this story. This is the way to lose a bet."

Earlier in the evening, at the venue’s Prospects Bar & Grill, the Mayor was presented with a giant birthday cake featuring a photo of himself and Colbert.

Other event highlights included: a special presentation by Don Cherry, hockey icon and star of "Coach’s Corner" on Hockey Night in Canada; comedian Darrin Rows, music-comedy duo Two For The Show; mascots Shooter (Oshawa Generals), Steagle Colbeagle the Eagle and The Raptor; free cake and free Dr Pepper - Mr. Colbert’s favourite soft drink.

The winner of The Comedy Network’s "Stephen Colbert Look-A-Like Contest" was judged by an applause-o-metre and crowned at Oshawa’s Stephen Colbert Day. The Comedy Network will send winner Maurice Collard from Saskatoon and his guest to New York City and provide him with two tickets to an actual live taping of The Colbert Report.

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada raised over $2,000 through a 50-50 draw and a silent auction featuring Don Cherry memorabilia, $100 gift certificates and Oshawa Generals tickets.

Colbert Day partners included Rogers Television, CKDO, KX96, 94.9 The Rock, Metroland Durham Region Media Group, The Comedy Network, Dr Pepper, Oshawa Centre, Uphoff Printing, Downtown Oshawa, Blueline Taxi, Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment, Oshawa Generals and Saginaw Spirit.

View the "Colbert Report" episodes relating to this event:
Teddy Bear Toss
Colbert Accepts Mayor's Wager
Mayor acknowledges Colbert's Win
Stephen Colbert's "Colbert Day" Message