610 CKTB NEWS, St. Catharines
October 14, 2011

Niagara has been crowned Cultural Capital of Canada for 2012.

The region shares the title with Calgary.

The title gets Niagara over $1.6 million from the Heritage Ministry for a year-long celebration of culture.

Niagara Falls MP Rob Nicholson made the announcement Friday.  Nicholson says the designation goes beyond what the region has planned for War of 1812 bi-centennial celebrations, though it's a good fit.

Earlier this week, Ottawa pledged $28-million to mark the 200th anniversary of the war.

The cultural capital title will fund more than two dozen projects.

Among them, dance, theatre, art & music demonstrations, plus a historical walk, an interactive display on the history of the Welland Canal & a traditional lacrosse game.

Regional Chair Gary Burroughs believes Niagara residents know how fortunate they are to have such a rich heritage, but says it's wonderful to have it nationally recognized.

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