Beaconsfield unveils torch celebration

Award-winning concert performers, interactive sports simulation games, sustainable home exhibits, and some other surprises will be on-hand on Dec. 8 as Beaconsfield holds a community celebration for the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics' torch relay, officials announced at a press conference today.

"It provides an opportunity for all West Islanders to be part of the Olympic Torch Relay," said Mayor David Pollock today at Centennial Hall, near Centennial Park where a large stage is slated to hold the celebration.

Performers will include a group from the award-winning Dollard des Ormeaux-based hip hop dance studio 8Count, as well as a folkloric dance group, the Pieds Légers de Laval.

The main show, however, will be a performance by the Juno-award winning Montreal Jubilation Gospel Choir under the musical direction of Dr. Trevor Payne.

The Royal Bank of Canada, one of the main sponsors of the Olympics, will be building on its theme of sustainability by showcasing an interactive sustainable mobile home.

Marie Moorhead, branch manager at the RBC Royal Bank in Beaconsfield, revealed some other flourishes to be brought in by the bank as well. "(Attendees) will be able to take photos with the 2010 Olympic Torch," she said, as well as meet with some Quebec Olympians who will be present

Moorhead said interactive ski and snowboarding simulation games will be around as well.

With parking space at Centennial limited, the city will provide shuttle services from areas such as Beaurepaire Village, Beaconsfield High School and Beaconsfield Shopping Centre from 5 to 7 p.m. and a return service from 7:30 to 9 p.m.

Midway through the ceremony, Beaconsfield's last torch bearer, Benjamin Mumme of BHS, will arrive on-stage to light the Olympic Cauldron with the Olympic Torch.

In case of inclement weather, Pollock said the celebration would move indoors to the Recreation Centre. However, he said that would really only be reserved for "very extreme weather."

The Sucrerie de la Montagne, a Rigaud-based sugar inn and multiple activity hub, will provide hot beverages and sweets at the event.

Jessica Belair, of Coca Cola Company, another major sponsor of the event, was present at the press conference. However, she did not unveil any of the soft drink giant's planned activities.

"We're keeping it a secret," she said with a laugh when asked to comment afterward. "It's a surprise."