Communities in Bloom Made the Secretariat for Cultural Capitals of Canada
OTTAWA, October 3, 2002 -- Minister of Canadian Heritage Sheila Copps today announced that the Communities in Bloom organization has been made the secretariat for the new Cultural Capitals of Canada program."For many years, Communities in Bloom has shown outstanding leadership in improving the quality of life of our communities," said Minister Copps. "The Government of Canada wants to show the same energy in celebrating our rich and diverse culture, and in highlighting the remarkable work of municipalities and cities in this area, through the Cultural Capital of Canada program."
Communities in Bloom is a Canada-wide non-profit organization committed to fostering civic pride, environmental responsibility and beautification through community participation and the challenge of a national competition.
The Cultural Capitals of Canada program, announced on May 31, 2002 by Minister Copps, is a national program to recognize and support Canadian municipalities for special activities that harness the many benefits of arts and culture in community life.
Five cities and municipalities out of those that submit applications will receive Cultural Capitals of Canada awards. The deadline for applying for a 2003 award is October 18, 2002. The deadline for applying for a 2004 award is February 1, 2003.
An independent jury will make recommendations to the Minister, who will select the five winners. In addition to the title of Cultural Capital of Canada, each winner will receive a matching contribution of up to $500,000, depending on the size of the municipality and the type of project involved.
For more information of this program, please visit the Department of Canadian Heritage's Web site at www.canadianheritage.gc.ca, or dial 1 866 661-0662.
Information:
Sonya-Kim St-Julien
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
(819) 997-7788
[ Media Room ]
