Industry Highlights - RTO 9

Industry Highlights

With both water and land options, Chaffey's Lock provides one of the more eclectic stops on the Rideau Canal PHOTO BY JULIA CLERK YOGERST

Explore Canada’s 126-Mile-Long National Treasure

Forbes, Sep 10, 2024 - Joe Yogerst - Media Fam Tour

About: Stretching 126 miles (202 km) between Ottawa and Lake Ontario, the Rideau Canal is one of Canada’s most popular national parks. Yet it’s barely known outside of the Maple Leaf nation.

Both a Parks Canada national historic site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Rideau meanders through the Ontario backcountry along a route pioneered centuries ago by First Nations people and French voyageurs.

Magazine reach
Forbes magazine has 44 licensed local editions in 77 countries
The magazine is published eight times a year
In Summer 2024, MRI reported that Forbes magazine had 5.7 million readers

Digital reach
In October 2024, Forbes reported that it had a global digital audience of 109.2 million
Forbes.com has millions of visitors

Forbes has a social footprint of over 50 million


Curisocity Dec 4, 2024

These scenic winter driving routes in Ontario will feel like you’re in a snowglobe

Curiocity - December 4 - Taylor Lucus

About: Winter driving routes are the ultimate solution to the age-old problem of wanting to enjoy winter scenery without getting cold. Yep, you can still take in the gorgeous sights of the snowy season in Ontario, all from the comfort of your warm car. Grab a friend, pack up the car and get ready to embark on a magical day along one of these winter driving routes.

1,000 Islands Parkway
1,000 Islands Parkway is a gorgeous route that boasts views of the St. Lawrence River which is especially beautiful with a layer of freshly fallen snow. Spanning around 37 km, this drive shows off panoramic scenery between Brockville and Gananoque, off the 401.

Reach: 512K


Photo via camilleviauuu on Intsgram

This Ontario destination is brimming with quaint bookshops and tiny Christmas towns

Narcity Canada, November 26 - Madeline Forsyth

South Eastern Ontario is home to some enchanting hidden gems, and you can explore several of them along the Bookworm's Paradise Shopping Route. The Christmas-themed trail takes you to independent bookstores throughout Brockville and 1000 Islands Rideau Canal Waterways. You'll travel through enchanting small towns and streets decked out in festive decor along the way.

Reach: 1 M


1000 Islands Helicopter Tour 2024 MsN

Budget-friendly vs. Splurge-worthy: The 1000 Islands

MSN.com - November 25, 2024 -Jennifer Merrick

In this series, I’ll introduce one fabulous destination and show you where to stay, savor and play on two different budgets. Splurge-worthy picks are all about luxury resorts, fine dining and individualized experiences while budget-friendly ideas offer bargain digs, cheap (but good) eats and free or inexpensive activities to enjoy. I’ll provide money-saving tips (even for the splurges) and ensure that whatever your budget is, you’ll be able to make the most of your vacation. There’s a tinge of magic in the 1000 Islands. It’s as though the rosy hues of their famous sunsets gives us the lens to experience its allure no matter what your budget.

Reach: 126M


Kingston City Hall via edu_ellie instagram

This Ontario city has a 'Hallmark holiday movie vibe' with twinkly trolleys and cozy cafes

Narcity Canada, November 20 - Madeline Forsyth

Twinkling streets, glowing cafes, horse-drawn wagons and more await at this enchanting Christmas destination in Ontario. You'll feel like you've stepped into a cozy Christmas film as you wander through the town square and around the glittering shops. Kingston, Ontario is getting a magical makeover for the Christmas season. The lakeside city is brimming with European charm and is just a road trip away from Toronto.

Reach: 1 M


Brockville Centeen Underwater Dive Park

Centeen Park in Brockville: an underwater dive park

Niagara-on-the-Lake Local - David Gilchrist - November 18

On the bank of the St. Lawrence River, in Brockville, lies an interesting park. Located at the east end of the city, it is at the end point of the Brock Trail which runs through the city of Brockville. What is especially interesting about this park is that it has become the land-based centre for Canada’s first underwater statue park: Centeen Memorial Dive Park.

Reach: 23 K


Photo Credit Xinhua - Zou Zheng via Getty Images

Where Was 'Hot Frosty' Filmed? Explore the Wintery Romance of Ontario, Canada

MSN.com - November 16, 2024 -Teejay Small

Hot Frosty was filmed entirely in Ontario, Canada, for those seeking a Winter wonderland escape of their own. The province, which stands in the East-Central zone of the great white North, offers some of the finest tourism options for Americans looking to explore their Northern neighbor. Specifically, most of Hot Frosty was shot in and around the city of Brockville, which is located quite close to the border of upstate New York, just across the St. Lawrence River.

Reach: 126M


Photo via Ontario Conservation Areas

There’s a park in Ontario with a trail that offers a birds-eye view of a flowing lake

Curiocity - Nov 14, 2024 - Karen Doradea

Outdoor fall adventure await at Sheffield Conservation Area. Home to a dark sky viewing area, trails and five gorgeous lakes, here’s what to know about this lovely Ontario Park.The park is maintained by the county of Lennox and Addington and can be found at at 8032 County Road 41, in Erinsville.

Reach: 512 K


Pembroke Observer image

Ontario building 41 EV chargers in Hastings-Lennox and Addington

Pembroke Observer and News - Nov 14, 2024 - Postmedia Staff

Ontario is building 41 new charging stations for electric vehicles in the Hastings-Lennox and Addington riding. The expansion is part of a $91-million government program. The program’s stream for community sites is to build more than 1,300 chargers. Request for bids for government sites, including hospitals and post-secondary schools, closed in September.

Reach: 16.8 K


Frontenac Retreat

2024 Frontenac Business Awards recognize local business operators in Frontenac County

Kingstonist - November 6, 2024 - Jessica Foley

Frontenac County has announced the recipients of the 2024 Frontenac County Business Award winners at the Frontenac County Business Retreat and Awards in Parham at RKY Camp in Central Frontenac.

Reach: 156K


Burgers - LG

10 restaurants in Leeds and Grenville participating in United Way's Novemburger event

CTV News Ottawa - November 2, 2024 - Jack Richardson

Ten restaurants in the Leeds and Grenville region are participating in United Way’s “Novemburger” event this month to support the agency.

The full list of participating locations in the region this year are:
Fat Les’s on King (Brockville, Ont.)
Bridgeview Restaurant (Prescott, Ont.)
CedarValley Golf Course (Elizabethtown-Kitley, Ont.)
Karra’s Burgers & Fries (Brockville)
Keystorm Pub (Brockville)
Luna Pizzeria and Restaurant (Brockville)
Manoll’s Fish & Chips (Brockville)
Rapid Valley Restaurant (Lansdowne, Ont.)
Stoodleys (Elgin, Ont.)
Tim’s Fish & Chips (Prescott)

Reach: 9.94 M


Lyndhurst Bridge 2024

This charming rural village is home to the oldest bridge in Ontario

Curiocity - October , 2024 - Karen Doradea

In the charming village of Lyndhurst, Ontario, you can enjoy a scenic stroll that feels like a journey through time. This picturesque destination is home to Ontario’s oldest bridge, a remarkable piece of history. This beautiful stone bridge, dating back to the 1850s, is recognized by the Ontario Heritage Trust as a prime example of masonry arch construction in the province.

Reach: 515 K


Brain Trust Marketing leading the tourism strategic plan

Cornwall Tourism, SDG Tourism ask what visitors and locals like to see, do

The Whig Standard - October 28, 2024

“What is unique to Cornwall, SDG, and Akwesasne, and how is it accessible to visitors?” That was a question asked during the first of three visioning sessions among community stakeholders, who met on Monday afternoon at the Saunders Hydro Dam Visitors Centre in Cornwall.The sessions, facilitated by Brain Trust Marketing, are being held as part of the process to shape a five-year tourism strategic plan for SDG Tourism and Cornwall Tourism. SDG Tourism, supported by Cornwall Tourism, has engaged with Alphabet Creative and CMK Consulting, in addition Brain Trust, to develop a collaborative and comprehensive plan that will look at drawing visitors to the area.

Reach: 68.8 K


Rock Dunder 2024

There's a trail in Ontario with breathtaking woodland views 275 feet above a bay

Curiocity - October 31, 2024 - Karen Doradea

Nothing beats Ontario’s natural beauty! If you’re a hiking enthusiast and love a rewarding finish to your trek, then a thrilling adventure to Rock Dunder Nature Reserve is a must.If you live in Kingston and the surrounding area, you’ve probably heard of this place or trailed it more times than you can count. You’ll find this lovely gem in Morton, ON, just over three hours east of Toronto.

Reach: 515 K


Long Sault Parkeay Oct. 2024 Park of the St. Lawrence

There's an Ontario parkway connecting 11 islands that offers a picturesque fall drive

Curiocity - October 21, 2024 - Karen Doradea

Your upcoming fall road trip is about to be epic! The Long Sault Parkway is a winding road in Ontario that connects a series of 11 islands and this time of the year the views are spectacular. You’re going to want to plan your trip to Long Sault ASAP though, as it’s set to close for the season next month. According to Parks of the St. Lawrence, the parkway is “a series of 11 islands created from high points of land left after the flooding of the St. Lawrence River during the construction of the Seaway in the 1950s.

Reach: 515 K


Gananoque Fall Foliage

This Ontario destination has warm autumn weather and mesmerizing 'double foliage' views

Narcity Canada, Oct 13 - Madeline Forsyth

The 1000 Islands is a picturesque region located along the border between northern New York State and southeastern Ontario. According to the website, it's a "sightseer's paradise" and is home to over 1800 islands.1000 Islands Tourism calls this spot "one of the best fall getaways in Ontario" and you can enjoy stunning colours, autumn experiences and more.

Reach: 1.12 M


Diversity Festival Cornwall SDG

Just the launch for this festival in Cornwall promises to be memorable

Kingston Whig-Standard, August 11
About: The launch ceremony for the first Cornwall SDG International Afro and Diversity Festival – in Lamoureux Park next summer with final dates to be determined – will include singers, dancers and bands representing various nationalities, a fashion show, kids activities and numerous dignitaries on hand, including Sen. Bernadette Clement and the Ivory Coast ambassador Bafetigue Quattara.


Ottawa

What's happening in Ottawa this weekend: Aug. 11-13

CTV News Ottawa, August 11
About: CTVNewsOttawa.ca looks at things to do in Ottawa, eastern Ontario and western Quebec this weekend. Including Cornwall Pride, Brockville Aquatarium, Kingston Farmer’s Market


Pen Exhibit Image

‘Prisoners of Age’ exhibit comes to Kingston Pen Tours

Global News, August 11
About: Kingston Pen Tours is hosting a travelling exhibition. “Prisoners of Age” showcases images and interviews captured between 1996 and 2015 at men’s and women’s prisons across Canada and the United States.


Fort Henry March Newsletter image

Kingston Fortifications National Historic Site seeks input for new management plan

Kingston Whig-Standard, August 11
About: Parks Canada is reaching out to the public for input as it plans the future of the Kingston Fortifications National Historic Site, including Fort Henry and Murney Tower.


Life Boats

Titanic-era steamship, S.S. Keewatin, expected to arrive in Kingston this fall

Global News, August 10
About: The last Titanic-era steamship, the S.S. Keewatin, is expected to arrive at the Marine Museum of the Great Lakes dry dock this fall. Preparations for the ship’s arrival are underway and some of the Keewatin’s accessories have already arrived. Nine lifeboats currently sit outside the museum along Kingston’s downtown waterfront.


kingston

Weekend Spotlight: Five things to do in Kingston area this weekend

The Kingston Whig-Standard, August 10
About: Exciting events happening in the city this weekend including the Limestone Jazz Collective Live, Heritage Bike Tour, Biodiverse Garden Tour and more.


Lift Lock

Le Boat Expands on the Trent-Severn for 2024

Canadian Yachting, August 9
About: Le Boat has revealed plans to expand on the Trent Severn Waterway for 2024 and cruises are now on sale for the 2024 boating season. Le Boat is Europe’s largest boat rental company will be launching on the Trent Severn Waterway with a fleet of 8 Luxury Horizon Cruisers and their base will be located at Horseshoe Bay Marine.


Open Farms

Open Farm Days celebrate food and farming in Kingston and Frontenac County

Kingstonist, August 8
About: Open Farm Days will take place over six weeks this year and be an opportunity to bring friends and family together and explore the farms, farmers’ markets, and various locations across the region. The events will offer opportunities to explore, engage, and learn more about farming and where our local food comes from.


Clark and Minster Of Tourism

Area gets $220K tourism boost

The Kingston Whig-Standard, August 7
About: Festivals and tourism venues across the region, including the Aquatarium, Prescott’s Shakespeare festival and the Lombardy Fair, will split nearly $220,000 in provincial funding.


Breathe Vaction Rentals

Breathe luxury vacation rentals acquires Sandbanks tour agency, fuelling expansion across Eastern Ontario

Ottawa Business Journal, August 4
About: Ottawa-based Breathe Vacation Rentals is continuing its expansion across Ontario and western Quebec with the acquisition of Sandbanks Vacations, a popular tour and rental agency in Prince Edward County.


kingston

Fort Henry Guard set to mark 85th anniversary

Kingstonist, August 3
About: To mark the Fort Henry Guard’s 85th anniversary, a Sunset Ceremony will take place at Fort Henry on August 5, 2023. The ceremony will include performances of the Fifes and Drums, the Drill Squad, the Artillery detachments of the FHG, a march-past of FHG alumni, and conclude with a fireworks display.


1000 Islands

There Are Plenty Of Surprises In Ontario: Unique Locations To See In The Most Populous Canadian Province

Kelly's Thoughts on Things, August 2
About: There are plenty of activities in the Ontario Thousand Islands Area. For instance, take a short drive to Kingston, Ontario, and sample some of the incredible culinary marvels. Visit the well-known Fort Henry while you're there to learn how crucial the military has been to the development of the St. Lawrence River route.


Tyendinaga’s traditional Pow Wow

Tyendinaga’s traditional Pow Wow returns from COVID hiatus

The Kingston Whig-Standard, August 2
About: For the first time since 2019, Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory will host its traditional PowWow. The Tyendinaga Traditional PowWow: Tsitewatsiro:ten Rekindling Our Spirit, this year’s official title, dates back to the mid 1980s, one of its organizers, Ainsley Leween, said in an interview at the site as preparation were still being made ahead of its big return.


A20I4954

Four Kingston festivals receive provincial funding boost

The Kingston Whig-Standard, August 1
About: Kingston Canadian Film Festival, Kingston Writersfest, Festival of Live Digital Art and Kingstonlicious will all share more than a $140,000 funding boost from the province. Funds were provided through the province’s Experience Ontario grant program, which supports events and festivals in hopes they will draw out-of-town visitors to the host municipality.


Monarch Point Conservation Reserve

Ontario government creates new conservation reserve in Prince Edward County

Global News, July 31
About: The provincial government announced the creation of a new conservation reserve in Prince Edward County on Monday. The first of its kind in over a decade, according to the province, the new Monarch Point Conservation Reserve will preserve and protect thousands of acres of land along the county’s south shore.