ORANGEVILLE – David Tilson, Member of Parliament for Dufferin-Caledon, was pleased to announce $15,000 from Canadian Heritage in support of the Town of Orangeville. The Town of Orangeville will be hosting celebrations during the Olympic Torch Relay’s journey across the country.

“It is incredibly exciting for the residents of the Town of Orangeville and area to be participating in this national event,” said Mr. Tilson. “The events and activities that will be a result of this funding will highlight our local spirit as well as our Canadian pride.”

The events and activities organized by each celebration community will highlight Canada’s outstanding athletes, culture, and national pride. Canadians from coast to coast will have the unique opportunity to participate in an unforgettable Olympic experience and to celebrate the talent and dedication of Canadian athletes, as they own the podium in 2010.

“The funding assistance for our Torch Relay celebration means a lot to us,” said Mayor Rob Adams who chairs the Olympic Torch Relay Community Task Force. “We have an exciting show planned with about 200 performers and some unique elements both on stage and out in the sports field. The $15,000 grant from the Federal Department of Canadian Heritage will help us promote the celebration. This is an opportunity to really bring the broader community together for a special event and to showcase the area to the rest of Canada.”

Orangeville’s Olympic Torch Relay celebration will take place December 28th at the Tony Rose Memorial Sports Centre on an outdoor stage and portions of the adjacent sports fields, with performances appearing on a large screen near the stage. The show times and Torch Relay route will be announced later in the fall. For more information and updates on the celebration visit www.orangeville.ca.The celebration show is being produced by Orangeville’s Olympic Torch Relay Community Task Force and Canadian choreographer Roland Kirouac.

The Government of Canada is investing $22.5 million to help communities throughout Canada to join in the excitement and thrill of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Torch Relay. Funding will be used to highlight local talent and artists, provide interactive activities to engage youth and individuals, and to showcase each community’s local identity. Each celebration community is different and will offer unique opportunities for all Canadians to welcome the Olympic Flame.