Dufferin-Caledon, ON- David Tilson, Member of Parliament for Dufferin-Caledon, spent Canada Day taking part in the many lively events throughout the riding. Beginning the day with a trip to Downey’s Farm Market, Mr. Tilson, accompanied by MPP Sylvia Jones and Town of Caledon Mayor Marolyn Morrison, serenaded the audience with a spirited rendition of O Canada.

Following the Downey’s Farm Market celebration, MP Tilson and other dignitaries marched into the Caledon Fairgrounds to officially open the Caledon Agricultural Society’s annual festival. Assisted by the Town Crier Betty Kading, the official opening ceremony was quite a lively occasion.

The next stop on the Canada Day tour was the Amaranth celebration. Mr. Tilson was able to participate in the opening ceremony and assist with the unveiling or Amaranth’s Roll of Honour, in recognition of Amaranth residents who gave their lives in Service to Canada during the World War One and World War Two.

Immediately after the Amaranth event, Mr. Tilson arrived in time to bring greetings from the federal government at the Orangeville Legion Branch 233 Canada Day event. With the help of Town of Orangeville Mayor Rob Adams and MPP Sylvia Jones the Canada Day cake was cut and the event officially opened.

After the Orangeville Legion event Mr. Tilson headed to Shelburne to participate in the opening ceremony for the Town of Shelburne’s Canada Day celebration. Following his speech Mr. Tilson, Mayor Ed Crewson and MPP Sylvia Jones kicked off the Shelburne Idol competition with a passionate performance of the national anthem.

Last but not least, the highlight of the day, Mr. Tilson presided over a beautiful citizenship ceremony for Caledon resident Jade Scognamillo. Jade received a unique grant of citizenship from the Honourable Jason Kenney, Minister of Citizenship and Immigration in recognition of her unwavering commitment to Canadian ideals and her aspirations as a Canadian athlete. Minister Kenney granted MP Tilson judicial authority to swear Jade in during the heart warming ceremony which took place at the Albion Hills Conservation Area.

When asked about his favorite event this Canada Day, Mr. Tilson responded, “It’s difficult to choose a favourite with so many wonderful celebrations here in Dufferin Caledon. However, given its uniqueness, I will always remember my experience presiding over Jade Scognamillo’s citizenship ceremony.”

All things considered Mr. Tilson judges Dufferin-Caledon’s 2009 Canada Day celebrations, “another impressive success, the organizers and volunteers associated with these incredible events never cease to amaze me.”