The Town of Orangeville has joined the Count Me In! community challenge that's under way until August 14, the anniversary of the North American blackout in 2003.

Mayor Rob Adams joined Wednesday's announcement, indicating that Orangeville plans to be a "fierce competitor" in a challenge issued by Woodstock Mayor Michael Harding.

The Count Me In! Community Challenge actually involves two challenges:

• The highest percentage drop in electricity consumption on August 14, and

• The highest per capita participation in the pledge drive between now and August 14.

The Community Challenge is a joint initiative of the Ontario Power Authority, the City of Woodstock, the Association of Municipalities of Ontario, the Independent Electricity System Operator, and the Electricity Distributors Association.

Results of the challenge will be announced at the AMO Annual Conference in Ottawa in August.

"It's a great day for conservation," Mayor Harding said, noting that individuals can use some of the 100 everyday tips found at www.countmeinontario.ca.

"We are ready to take on all comers," he said, noting the challenge between municipalities will be on a per capita basis to create a level playing field. The goal is to have 60 municipalities sign on for this summer's challenge.

Although everyone wins when energy savings result, there is even more at stake - the Woodstock Cup goes to the challenge winner.

Mayor Adams said Orangeville is up to the challenge. "Everyone is watching the Stanley Cup to see who will prevail. Now everyone can take part in another challenge."

He soaid Orangeville has the opportunity to take home the Woodstock Cup by meeting energy conservation targets every day, but particularly on August 14, and by taking the online pledge. You can check out www. countmeinontario.ca to take the pledge, view the energy saving tips, and plan how you are going to help.