THUNDER BAY – There does not appear to be any widespread support for venues in our region. Kakabeka Falls has 35 votes, but the amazing skating rink at Prince Arthur’s Landing isn’t on the list. Well isn’t on the list yet. The new Paddle to the Sea Park in Nipigon isn’t on the list either. Perhaps the evolution in the Evergreen Neighbourhood should be there too? Fortunately the nominations are still open in the second annual Great Places in Canada contest.
With a month to go until the close of nominations, the second annual Great Places in Canada contest is heating up as communities scramble to have their favourite street, neighbourhood or public space named one of the greatest locations in the country. The competition is attracting some very determined support. Botanical Beach in Juan de Fuca Provincial Park near Port Renfrew, BC, is currently the leader in the Great Public Space category. “It’s really exciting that the Botanical Beach is leading, but we need to get the vote out to secure our top spot!” says Rose Betsworth, President of Port Renfrew Chamber of Commerce.
Not to be outdone, Mayor Gregor Robertson of Vancouver, BC, is touting the merits of the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, currently the runner-up in the same category. “Vancouver’s historic Chinatown is a unique neighbourhood that reflects our diversity,” said Mayor Robertson. “The Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Garden is one of our most treasured cultural spaces, and I hope the voters in this contest agree.”
The top nominees in the Great Street category are Queen Street in Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON, and Icefields Parkway (Highway 93) in Alberta. “More than 3 million people visit Niagara-on-the-Lake every year and we hope that everyone who has enjoyed Queen Street will vote for us,” notes Niagara-on-the-Lake Mayor Dave Eke.
Mayor Richard Ireland of Jasper, AB, says the Icefields Parkway “provides spectacular views of Canada’s pristine mountain environment and is one of the most scenic drives in the world; we are so proud of the recognition it’s getting.”
Parkdale in Toronto, ON, is currently laying claim to the first place in the Great Neighbourhoods category. Councillor Gord Perks says that “Parkdale is the dynamic and inclusive community I am proud to represent. The secret is out…it is one of the best places in Canada!”
Victoria Park in Kitchener, ON, is one of the top ranked nominations for Canada’s Great Neighbourhood. Mayor Carl Zehr says, “Having Victoria Park – the jewel of our city – nestled in its midst has made this near 200-year-old neighbourhood a cultural and recreational destination for residents and visitors, who are interested in learning more about our city’s past and enjoying some of our finest amenities.”
There are 33 nominations so far that have collectively received over 3,400 votes.
Getting Thunder Bay and region into the game starts with you. Visit www.greatplacesincanada.com