About the CCC Award
What Is The Cultural Capitals of Canada Program?
The Government of Canada announced on May 31, 2002 the creation of Cultural Capitals of Canada. This national program recognizes and supports municipalities that already demonstrate support for arts, culture and heritage as integral to community life. The designation “Cultural Capital” is awarded to communities demonstrating the ability to celebrate and build a legacy for arts and culture, and also demonstrating a good track record of past achievements. Submissions for the award must contain plans for an ambitious program that can be realistically achieved within the limitations imposed by the size and resources of the community.
Morden is honoured to receive this prestigious award and be designated a 2008 Cultural Capital of Canada. Morden’s proposal was successful on its first application and is the first Manitoba community to win this award. There are four communities each year that are selected. The other Cultural Capitals of Canada for 2008 are;
- Surrey, British Columbia
Category: Over 125,000 Population Category
Maximum Contribution of 2 Million - Nanaimo, British Columbia
Category: 50,000 to 125,000 Population Category
Maximum Contribution of $750,000 - Sackville, New Brunswick
Category: Under 50,000 Population Category
Maximum Contribution of $500,000
The funding provided helps support special projects that celebrate the arts and culture. With a population of under 50,000, Morden may be awarded up to $500,000. The funds will be used to create and produce the "Chautauqua Spirit" Project.
When Was The Award Announced?
On behalf of the Honourable Beverly J. Oda, Minister of Canadian Heritage, Brian Pallister, Member of Parliament for Portage-Lisgar, announced that Morden was designated one of the 2008 Cultural Capitals of Canada on June 27th, 2007 at the Pembina Hills Art Centre.
Who is involved in the Chautauqua Spirit celebration?
Nancy Penner, Project-Co-ordinator; Carol Wilkinson, Community Resources Officer; Larry Danielson, Executive Chair; Wes Hamm, Music Events Manager; Yvonne Peters, Visual Arts Events Manager; Gerald Pauls, Speech Arts Events Manager; David Wilkinson & Anita Janzic, Canadian Fossil Discovery Centre Events Managers; Ernie Epp, Town of Morden CAO; Brian Hildebrand & Ron Laverty, Town of Morden Councillors; Mayor Doug Wilson; and representatives of many arts and culture organizations in Morden.
