The Niagara Parks Commission

Niagara Parks to Host Public Information Centres

WHAT:
The Niagara Parks Commission (NPC) invites local residents and members of the media to attend one of its information sessions scheduled to review three major construction projects being undertaken by NPC.

NPC Projects:
1. Relocation of the Niagara Parkway to the area south of Table Rock
2. Year-round/fully accessible Falls Incline Railway
3. Repairs at Oakes Garden Theatre

WHEN:
Tuesday, May 15
6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

OR

Wednesday, May 16
2:00 p.m. to 4 p.m.

WHERE:
Whirlpool Public Golf Course
3351 Niagara Parkway, 7km north of Niagara Falls
Free parking available on site.

For Immediate Release
May 2, 2012

OFFICIAL MEDIA RELEASE
Wallenda Tightrope Walk Date Announced

Highly anticipated event to take place on June 15th pays tribute to tourism destination’s stunting past

NIAGARA FALLS, NY/ON – Famed aerialist Nik Wallenda, along with The Niagara Parks Commission (NPC) and New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, are pleased to officially announce the much anticipated date of his tightrope walk across the Niagara Gorge on a high wire.

Wallenda, who obtained approval from both U.S. and Canadian officials to attempt this feat, plans to cross the Niagara Gorge on Friday, June 15, beginning at 9 p.m. Wallenda will make the approximate 550-metre (1,800-foot) crossing above the world-renowned Horseshoe Falls.
In announcing the walk, Wallenda stated, “This has been a dream of mine ever since I saw Niagara Falls for the first time when I was six years old. I fully expect this to be only the beginning of my life long relationship with Niagara Falls.”

According to NPC Chair Janice Thomson, “Given Niagara’s storied history with stunting and daredevil attempts, it is appropriate that Niagara Falls serve as the backdrop for this event; one which pays tribute to the individuals and performances of long ago, while highlighting Niagara Parks’ ongoing role as one of the world’s leading tourism destinations. This event will allow NPC and our colleagues at the New York State Park to showcase our world-class venues and inspire all those who wish to make Niagara their vacation destination of choice.”

“New York State Parks welcomes Mr. Wallenda to the historic Niagara Falls State Park for an event that will capture the imagination of people around the world,” said Rose Harvey, New York State Parks Commissioner. “We look forward to working with Mr. Wallenda and our partners in the Niagara Falls region to make June 15 a successful day and to highlight this natural wonder.”

Wallenda’s tightrope walk is expected to draw more than 120,000 people between both Parks to witness the event firsthand. A major American television network will broadcast Wallenda’s historic high wire walk live, enabling millions of viewers to watch worldwide.

Members of the media wishing to cover Nik Wallenda’s high wire walk in Canada will need to arrange accreditation with The Niagara Parks Commission. For further details about the event and accreditation, please go to www.niagaraparksmedia.com.

For media accreditation in the U.S., please contact Angela Berti at angela.berti@parks.ny.gov.

About The Niagara Parks Commission:
NPC is committed to a vision of Ontario’s Niagara Parks as one that preserves a rich heritage, conserves natural wonders and inspires people world-wide. Founded in 1885, The Niagara Parks Commission is an Operational Enterprise Agency of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport. Its mission is to protect the natural and cultural heritage along the Niagara River for the enjoyment of visitors while maintaining financial self-sufficiency.

About New York State Parks:
The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees 178 state parks and 35 historic sites, including Niagara Falls State Park, America’s oldest state park. New York State Parks include over 350,000 acres, with activities as varied as our natural resources.

For more information on any of these recreation areas, call 518-474-0456, visit www.nysparks.com, or follow on Facebook and Twitter.

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For more information, please contact:
Kirsten Schubert
DSW Entertainment
kschubert@dswent.com
(212) 974-5322

Tony Baldinelli
Acting Director, Communications, Marketing and Stakeholder Relations
The Niagara Parks Commission
tbaldinelli@niagaraparks.com
(905) 356-2241 Ext. 220

Angela P. Berti, APR
Western District Marketing and Public Affairs Coordinator
NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation
angela.berti@parks.ny.gov
(716) 278-1764

Branding of new Niagara Falls Visitor Transportation System —
WEGO — revealed

Click for Official Media Release

STEWARD THE RICH HERITAGE AND
BEAUTY OF NIAGARA PARKS

General Manager

Established over 125 years ago, The Niagara Parks Commission has been a custodian and steward of one of the world’s natural wonders along with many of Niagara’s inspiring environmental and historical treasures. In the extensive 1,325 hectare portfolio, Niagara Parks’ properties consist of family attractions, golf courses, historic sites, a horticultural school, restaurants and even a butterfly conservatory. In addition, Niagara Parks operates its own police service, visitor transportation system, road and snow maintenance, and community and recreational facilities. There is also a 56 km recreational trail and the scenic Niagara Parkway. From its inception, this provincial agency has been completely self-sufficient, operating at no cost to the Ontario taxpayer, but is a publically accountable organization. The decisions, projects and policies of the Commission affect a broad array of stakeholders. As the General Manager, you’ll be comfortable in this type of environment.

Reporting to the Chair and Commissioners, you will add both strategic and operational stewardship to the organization as it serves millions of visitors and tourists from across Canada and around the world.  With your business, fiscal and relationship management skills, you’ll oversee a budget of approximately $75 million and work with a wide range of public and private sector stakeholders. Build the brand of Niagara Parks as a trustworthy and publicly responsible organization. Mentor and coach your senior management team in engaging and motivating a full-time staff of 260 that grows to more than 1,600 during the peak season. Assess the commercial enterprises to ensure they are fully leveraged and strategically aligned with the core mission and vision of Niagara Parks. Take a long-term approach to revenue sustainability and execute on goals identified in the organization’s strategic plan.

You are a proven business leader who possesses an entrepreneurial drive and track record of growing successful operations. You understand what it takes to transform an organization’s culture, and can demonstrate your creativity in identifying new sources of revenue within Provincial guidelines. With ten years of senior executive management experience and oversight of diverse businesses, you have worked with a Board and have been exposed to public/private partnerships. This exposure has given you an understanding of the public sector context and a commitment to integrity, transparency and accountability. Here is where you can put all of your credentials to work on behalf of a unique public agency.

How to Apply

To be considered for this position, please submit your resume online at http://www.odgersberndtson.ca/en/careers/10817. For further information please contact Margaret Campbell in Odgers Berndtson’s Toronto office at 416-366-1990.

For Immediate Release
February 29, 2012

Niagara Parks Commission Announces
Resignation of General Manager

Niagara Falls, ON – The Niagara Parks Commission (NPC) announced today that General Manager Fay Booker is resigning from the Commission.

While Ms. Booker’s resignation is effective March 14, 2012, she is taking some time off.  On an interim basis and effective today, Gershom Moyo, the Commission’s internal auditor, will assume the responsibilities of General Manager to ensure operational continuity.

“We appreciate Fay Booker’s service to the Commission. Ms. Booker has accomplished what had been directed at the outset of her contract – delivery of the Boat Tour decision, a restructure of the management team and development of a new business direction for the future.  We will build on the foundation Ms. Booker helped to establish and continue moving in a new strategic direction to ensure a strong, sustainable future for The Niagara Parks Commission,” said Janice Thomson, Chair of The Niagara Parks Commission. “In the next few weeks, I will announce plans to fill the position of General Manager on a permanent basis,” Thomson added.

Founded in 1885, The Niagara Parks Commission is an Operational Enterprise Agency of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport. Its mission is to protect the natural and cultural heritage along the Niagara River for the enjoyment of visitors while maintaining financial self-sufficiency.

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For more information, please contact:
Janice Thomson, Chair
The Niagara Parks Commission
905-356-2241, extension 223

For Immediate Release
Wednesday, February 22, 2012

The Niagara Parks Commission announces
new boat tour service operator

New 30-year lease agreement brings investment in new fleet and facilities, maintains family-friendly prices, and generates additional revenue for Niagara Parks

NIAGARA FALLS – The Niagara Parks Commission (NPC) has awarded the land lease related to boat tour operations at the Niagara Falls Gorge to Hornblower Canada Company (Hornblower). The agreement provides better value-for-money for Ontarians and will bring new investment to the Niagara region.

The new agreement is estimated to generate in excess of $500 million in revenue to the NPC over the 30-year span of the contract – representing an increase of more than $300 million in revenue compared to previous agreements. This includes guaranteed minimum revenue of $67 million in the first five years. In order to realize their vision of operations in the Niagara Falls Gorge, investments will be made to upgrade passenger facilities and construct new tour boats. The new service is expected to commence in Spring 2014.

“This is a great day for The Niagara Parks Commission and a great day for the tourism industry in Niagara and across Ontario,” stated NPC Chair Janice Thomson. “It not only marks the beginning of a new era for all of us, but it continues to build on what Niagara and Niagara Parks is all about, building memories and creating experiences that will last a lifetime.”

To assist NPC through the procurement process, the Ontario Government engaged external expertise, including a naval architect and a procurement advisor. An independent and impartial Fairness Commissioner also observed, monitored and oversaw the competitive process. The Fairness Commissioner’s reports on the fairness of the process are available on the NPC website.

NPC is committed to a vision of Ontario’s Niagara Parks as one that Preserves a rich heritage, Conserves natural wonders, and Inspires people world-wide. Founded in 1885, The Niagara Parks Commission is an Operational Enterprise Agency of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport. Its mission is to protect the natural and cultural heritage along the Niagara River for the enjoyment of visitors while maintaining financial self-sufficiency.

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For more information, please contact:
Tony Baldinelli, Acting Director
Communications, Marketing and Stakeholder Relations
tbaldinelli@niagaraparks.com
(905) 356-2241, ext. 220

For Immediate Release
February 21, 2012

Enjoy the Beauty of the Niagara Parks Floral Showhouse
New programming being introduced for 2012

Niagara Falls, ON – For over 65 years, the Niagara Parks Floral Showhouse has been a beloved part of the Niagara Falls experience for Ontario residents and international travellers alike. The Niagara Parks Commission (NPC) is excited about the opportunity to work with the Master Gardeners of Niagara and others to provide enhanced programming and display opportunities at the Showhouse, which a new $5 admission fee (excluding tax), being implemented on March 1, will support.

The displays in the popular greenhouses are regularly changed for visitors’ enjoyment, with eight seasonal plant exhibitions that are carefully grown and professionally displayed, along with a large permanent tropical plant collection. The annual Spring Display is currently in place, featuring a variety of vibrant Primula, Calceolaria, Cyclamen, Cineraria, Schizanthus, forced bulbs and shrubs.

Flying through the warm and inviting Floral Showhouse are dozens of tropical songbirds, which add charm to the quaint facility. The expanded “Shop in the Garden” also includes a café area where visitors may enjoy light refreshments and shop for unique garden gifts. The shop and café are open daily from 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

All monies generated through the new admission fees will be reinvested into the maintenance and care of this magnificent conservatory and surrounding gardens, as well as into additional programming and new exhibits, which will be announced throughout the year. For an additional $5, residents of Ontario may upgrade to a season’s pass, to return as often as they like as the displays are changed throughout the year.

Located just south of the Falls on the Niagara Parkway, the Floral Showhouse is open each day from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Paid parking is available on site. The Niagara Parks Commission is committed to a vision of Ontario’s Niagara Parks as one which Preserves a rich heritage, Conserves natural wonders, and Inspires people world-wide. Founded in 1885, NPC is an Operational Enterprise Agency of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport. Its mission is to protect the natural and cultural heritage along the Niagara River for the enjoyment of visitors while maintaining financial self-sufficiency.

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For more information, visit www.niagaraparks.com or contact:
Tony Baldinelli, Acting Director
Communications, Marketing and Stakeholder Relations
tbaldinelli@niagaraparks.com
(905) 356-2241 Ext. 220

For Immediate Release
February 15, 2012

The Niagara Parks Commission approves
Wallenda tightrope walk  

Niagara Falls, ON Canada – The Niagara Parks Commission (NPC) has approved a request by professional tightrope walker Nik Wallenda to walk across the Niagara Gorge on a tightrope.

“This decision was approved in part in recognition of the role that stunting has played in the history and promotion of Niagara Falls. We have made it clear that this is a very unique one-time situation. It’s not an every day activity and will not be allowed to become an every day activity,” NPC Chair Janice Thomson said.

Under the motion approved by the NPC Board, consideration could be given to a professional performer’s stunting proposal such as this, only once every 20 years.

The approval is in principle and depends on an agreement being successfully negotiated with the NPC and Wallenda that includes obtaining all necessary regulatory approvals.

An agreement is expected to be reached between the two parties by March 31 and the proposed walk is anticipated to take place in summer, 2012.

NPC is committed to a vision of Ontario’s Niagara Parks as one that Preserves a rich heritage, Conserves natural wonders, and Inspires people world-wide. Founded in 1885, The Niagara Parks Commission is an Operational Enterprise Agency of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Recreation and Sport. Its mission is to protect the natural and cultural heritage along the Niagara River for the enjoyment of visitors while maintaining financial self-sufficiency.

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For more information, visit www.niagaraparks.com or contact:
Tony Baldinelli
Acting Director, Communications, Marketing and Stakeholder Relations
tbaldinelli@niagaraparks.com
(905) 356-2241 Ext. 220

View The Gardens and Nature Parkway Residents Newsletter (PDF) Here

Click to view the official media release

For Immediate Release
Octover 17, 2011

Niagara Parks Announces Community Open House Meeting
Public Invitation

WHAT:  The Niagara Parks Commission (NPC) is inviting the public to attend an Open House Meeting to share a general overview of its operations from the past year as well as to review new initiatives such as the Shoreline Works Programme and the Shoreline Docks Policy.  This is an annual opportunity for local residents to meet and ask questions of the NPC Chair and senior staff and NPC looks forward to meeting as many members of the public that can attend.

WHEN:  Wednesday October 19, 2011

TIME:   Meeting will begin at 7:00 p.m.

WHERE: Old Fort Erie Visitor Centre – Theatre
350 Lakeshore Road
Fort Erie, Ontario

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For more information, please contact:
Tony Baldinelli
Acting Director, Communications, Marketing
and Stakeholder Relations
tbaldinelli@niagaraparks.com
(905) 356-2241 Ext. 220

Click Here for Official Media Release / French Version

Official Media Release: Decision on Nik Wallenda Wire Walk Proposal 

For Immediate Release
December 13, 2011

Cullen Miniature Village finds new home at Niagara Parks Commission Botanical Gardens

NIAGARA FALLS, ON – The Cullen Miniature Village, which has delighted hundreds of thousands of visitors at its former location in the Durham Region, has found a new home in The Niagara Parks Commission’s (NPC) Botanical Gardens.

“Our Botanical Gardens will be the perfect site for the Miniature Village,” stated NPC Chair Janice Thomson. “The village was originally developed for a botanical setting and they were intended to be viewed by audiences of all ages; our Botanical Gardens, with the Butterfly Conservatory right next door, will be the perfect home for this collection”.

The village is made up of 182 separate items, including the main village, cottage country, a train system, fairground, Santa Claus parade, and miniature accessories. The City of Oshawa purchased the village for $239,000 following the closure of Cullen Gardens. It has remained in storage ever since. NPC will pay the City of Oshawa $20,000 a year, over a five year period for the collection, starting in 2013.

“This is a wonderful addition to the Parks and will provide visitors with yet another compelling reason to visit Niagara Parks and Niagara. This was a much-loved attraction when it was part of the former Cullen Gardens and we believe that it will become an even greater attraction here,” Thomson said.
Once the village is refurbished and reassembled by NPC it will be put on public display in 2013. NPC has also pledged to erect a plaque identifying the important role the City of Oshawa played in keeping this unique collection intact for the public.

According to Oshawa Mayor John Henry, the planned move of the Cullen Miniatures to its new home at The Niagara Parks Commission’s (NPC) Botanical Gardens, celebrates a great man and visionary, Mr. Len Cullen. By keeping the collection intact, the City of Oshawa and NPC collectively bring new life to this treasured miniature heritage collection. “I look forward to visiting The Niagara Parks Commission’s Botanical Gardens to celebrate together the collection’s rebirth in one of Canada’s natural wonder locations. This is a fitting tribute to the creator of the collection,” said Mayor John Henry.

NPC is committed to a vision of Ontario’s Niagara Parks as one which Preserves a rich heritage, Conserves natural wonders, and Inspires people world-wide. Founded in 1885, The Niagara Parks Commission is an Operational Enterprise Agency of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Recreation. Its mission is to protect the natural and cultural heritage along the Niagara River for the enjoyment of visitors while maintaining financial self-sufficiency.

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For more information, please contact:
Tony Baldinelli, Acting Director,
Communications, Marketing and Stakeholder Relations
The Niagara Parks Commission
tbaldinelli@niagaraparks.com
(905) 356-2241, ext. 220