July 2, 2010
Happy Canada Day!
Did you know that David Suzuki has nominated the blueberry as Canada’s new national symbol? In a recent Globe & Mail poll he said, “Canadians from Newfoundland to the Yukon harvest this fruit, in berry-picking parties in the bush, with parents, cousins, aunts and uncles – eating as they go. Turning those pails of fruit into jam, wine or pancakes is another opportunity to socialize and celebrate…” Canada Day is a good time to reflect on what we love most about this fantastic country. Happy Canada Day!
July 26, 2009
Niagara-on-the-Lake Street Ranks Among the Top Ten
Did you know that the Toronto Star recently named Prideaux Street as one of the best streets to live on in the “905” exchange? In the words of Arts and Architecture columnist Christopher Hume, “Almost any street in this lovely though heavily gentrified town would do, but this one, with its elegant Georgian houses and magnificent gardens, is one of the best.” Prideaux is an excellent representative for the dozens of beautiful streets in Old Town!
March 22, 2009
A Showcase of Canadian Architecture Comes on the Market
Did you know that one of Canada’s prominent architects, Robert Ian Macbeth, worked in the Niagara region in the 20th century? After apprenticing under Arthur Edwin Nicholson, Macbeth set up his own practice in 1930. He completed commissions for American clients building large summer homes on Lake Erie. Many of the distinctive white colonials can still be seen along the shore. His firm also designed public buildings, including the St. Catharines City Hall, built in 1937. He completed one of his final private home designs in 1960, the product of which stands at 117 Victoria Street in Niagara-on-the-Lake. This house is a beautiful reflection of the modern, mid-20th century design aesthetic. For more information go to perryquinn.com or visit http://www.niagaraarchitects.com
September 23, 2008
Habitat for Humanity in Niagara
Did you know Habitat for Humanity has a Niagara chapter? Habitat for Humanity works in partnership with the community to build and renovate decent, affordable housing. The houses are sold to those in need at no profit and with no interest charged. One way you can support Habitat for Humanity is through the “ReStore” – a building supply stores that accepts and resells quality new and used building materials. They generate funds to support Habitat’s building programs, while recycling usable materials. You can find windows, doors, paint, hardware, lumber, tools, lighting fixtures and more at bargain prices, and the money you spend goes to this great cause. Check out the local ReStore at 141 Cushman Rd or go to http://www.habitatniagara.on.ca/restore
May 28, 2008
“Wine Spectator” Touts Niagara Charms
Did you know that “Wine Spectator,” the internationally acclaimed publication, recently featured Niagara-on-the-Lake? With over 2 million readers worldwide, this luxury lifestyle publication is considered an opinion leader. Describing our area as “bucolic and charming,” they promote our reputation as “the loveliest town in Ontario” and recommend this as “an ideal time to discover this region.” This article is one more example of the growing perception of NOTL as an exclusive destination and a very desirable place to live.
May 13, 2008
Niagara Wine Weekend & Auction Is Coming Soon!
Did you know that the 2nd annual Niagara Wine Weekend & Auction is just about a month away? Taking place June 13-15, this event raises funds for the SickKids Foundation and the St. Catharines General Hospital Foundation. The goal is to profile our first class vintners while giving back to the community. All-inclusive passes include a Friday VIP reception at Peller Estates, a Saturday afternoon wine garden party followed by a gala dinner and dance on The Commons, and on Sunday, a wineries showcase tour. Weekend entertainment will be provided by artists including The Pointer Sisters and The Temptations, among others. For more information, go to niagarawineauction.com
July 1, 2007
First Annual Niagara Wine Auction
Did you know that this weekend marks the occasion of the first annual Niagara Wine Auction? The event’s host Dan Aykroyd is an enthusiastic supporter of the Ontario wine industry. The weekend-long program features celebrity chef dinners on Friday, a Saturday afternoon auction and evening gala dinner on The Common, and a closing brunch plus Shaw Festival matinee on Sunday. This gala weekend celebrates our wine industry while raising funds for Sick Kids’ Hospital and the Paediatric Ward at the St. Catharines General Hospital. Go to http://www.niagarawineauction.com for more info about this high-quality event with a big heart for sick kids.
May 11, 2007
A Little Niagara-on-the-Lake History
Did you know that our town was first settled by 16 United Empire Loyalist families in 1782? Ten years later, we were named the first capital of Upper Canada and the legislature met for the first time under a large oak tree. Thus the name “Parliament Oak” for our school! As 1800 approached, the town grew to about 70 homes – only to be destroyed in the war of 1812. An optimistic rebuilding program followed, and many homes dating back to the 1800s are proudly occupied and carefully maintained today – part of the living history that is Niagara-on-the-Lake! (April 22, 2006)
May 11, 2007
The Niagara Parkway Called the Prettiest Drive in the World
Did you know that Sir Winston Churchill once described the Niagara Parkway as “the prettiest Sunday afternoon drive in the world?” Visitors and residents come to our town for many reasons, not the least of which is the extraordinary natural beauty. Just think – we get to enjoy it 365 days a year! (May 13, 2006)
