Whistler Medal Ceremonies Back On
09/04/2009 04:40
Vancouver's Olympic Committee announced Tuesday it would award medals for Whistler-based events at a central plaza, reversing a decision that would have seen them given out at individual event venues.
Late last year, VANOC said it would present medals at venues as a cost-cutting measure. But after meetings between Olympic organizers and the Whistler municipality, officials worked out a plan to reduce staffing levels, production costs, and the size of The Whistler Olympic and Paralympic Celebration Plaza. It will now host a series of concerts and medal presentations.
"We are very pleased to have the medals ceremonies return," said Whistler Mayor Ken Melamed.
The International Olympic Committee expressed its support for this decision.
"We are delighted that VANOC and the Resort Municipality of Whistler have found a way to present the medals at Whistler Olympic and Paralympic Celebration Plaza," said IOC Coordination Commission Chairman René Fasel.
"The daily achievements of the athletes will undoubtedly only be matched by the enthusiasm of the spectators and the Whistler community, celebrating with them at the Plaza."
The cost of the celebrations are pegged at $12.8-million. The plaza will also host the closing ceremonies of the Paralympic games.
SWIVEL HIPS SAYS:
Finally, sanity prevails.