Morden will officially kick off its "Chautauqua Spirit" celebrations for the 2008 Cultural Capital of Canada program on March 20.

This event is being hosted by the Morden Area Foundation as part of their Community Builders Luncheon Series.

"Chautauqua Spirit" project coordinator Nancy Penner said the Foundation event is fitting for a launch as they both have a similar goal of bringing community together.

Numerous events and workshops have already taken place and a full lineup is scheduled to take place throughout 2008.

Penner will inform the luncheon audience of upcoming events as well as provide an overview presentation about the "Chautauqua Spirit" project.

"Our full color program has been printed and will be available at the luncheon," said Penner. "It is really exciting to see the number of events that will be happening as well as the different types and varied audiences they will attract".

Entertainment will be provided by "Tomcat" of "Lulu and the Tomcat" and their "kidden" helpers. They will be performing a sampling of the fossil songs that have been commissioned for the Canadian Fossil Discovery Centre as part of the "Chautauqua Spirit" project.

A number of provincial, federal and local dignitaries will also be on hand for the launch.

There is a $10 fee, payable at the door to cover the cost of lunch.

The luncheon takes place from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Morden Friendship Centre.