VANCOUVER, February 14, 2010 - The Honourable James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, invites all Canadians to celebrate British Columbia Day and to take part in the first victory ceremony at the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games.
"As British Columbians, we have demonstrated that we are wonderful hosts," said Minister Moore. "Today I invite everyone to celebrate the Chinese New Year, cheer on the competing athletes, and take part in the Victory Ceremonies featuring talented artists from British Columbia and celebrating the athletic excellence of the medallists. Our athletes are an enormous source of pride for all Canadians, and we will celebrate and share in their achievements at tonight's victory ceremony."
Victory ceremonies will be held for 12 nights in Vancouver during the Olympic Winter Games. Each night's ceremony is sponsored by a territory or province. Each ceremony begins with a show by the host province or territory, starting tonight with British Columbia. The show will be followed by athlete medal presentations, and then an hour-long performance by the headlining act.
"I am pleased that British Columbians, indeed all Canadians, are already benefiting from hosting the 2010 Winter Games," said Minister Moore. "Investments by the Government of Canada in hosting the 2010 Winter Games have resulted in economic benefits for Canada and British Columbia, including the creation of business opportunities and jobs."
The Government of Canada is a major and committed partner in delivering successful Winter Games in 2010 and is striving to maximize Canadians' investment in the Games. The Games will unite all Canadians by celebrating our passion for sport, sharing our pride in our athletes and our many and varied cultures, and showcasing our talents to the world.
Deirdra McCracken
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages
deirdra.mccracken@pch.gc.ca
Government of Canada
2010 Winter Games Media Enquiry Centre
613-998-2010
1-877-760-2010
media2010@canada.gc.ca
www.canada2010.gc.ca/media
