Canada Games and partners aim to brighten spirits
The 2021 Canada Games Host Society is teaming up with its partners to brighten up the spirits of Niagara residents as they work their way through the COVID-19 pandemic.
The society has teamed up with all of Niagara’s municipalities, including Regional Niagara, and Production Service Industries Niagara, the Games’ official audio-visual and show supplier, to present the Niagara Light of Hope. It is in an effort to transmit a message of hope and solidarity across the region amidst the outbreak of COVID-19.
The Light of Hope is a beam of light that will illuminate the skylines of all of Niagara’s municipalities from 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. during a two-week period in May.
“The coronavirus pandemic has created significant challenges and adversity for many across the region,” said Doug Hamilton, the board chair of the 2021 Canada Games Host Society. “We hope this initiative will provide some inspiration and foster a sense of unity amongst our communities.”
Production Service Industries Niagara is happy to be a part of the venture.
“We are experiencing many emotions during this time, which made this initiative an extremely important undertaking for us,” said Steven Vian, President of PSI Niagara’s president. “The multiple rays converging into one strong bright beam represents the strength of our community, and the light is our presentation of hope. Ultimately, we hope that our message will provide Niagara with a moment to pause and reflect on this difficult period, while also helping people feel encouraged about the days that lie ahead.”
Organizers also feel the Niagara Light of Hope will serve as a tribute to frontline workers, who continue to work tirelessly to serve local communities in the fight against COVID-19. It has been the collective efforts of first responders, health care professionals and essential workers that have allowed the region to persevere through the current challenges.
“It is during challenging times like these that we are given the opportunity to show our support and appreciation for those who are on the frontlines, tirelessly doing their jobs to keep us all safe, healthy and fed,” Niagara’s Regional Chair Jim Bradley said. “The Light of Hope initiative is a small way to show our gratitude, while also demonstrating that we are eternally hopeful for a brighter future.”
The weather dependant schedule for the showing of the Light of Hope started yesterday at Regional Niagara and continues: May 4 in Niagara Falls; May 5 in Port Colborne; May 6 in St. Catharines; May 7 in Thorold; May 8 in Welland; May 9 in Fort Erie; May 10 in Grimsby May 11 in Lincoln; May 12 in Niagara-on-the-Lake; May 13 in Pelham; May 14 in Wainfleet; and, May 15 in West Lincoln.
More than 5,000 young athletes and their coaches will gather to compete in the Games Aug. 6-21 in Niagara.
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