Dear editor:

I am pleased to see that council has decided that Niagara-on-the-Lake is more than “wine country,” but was disappointed to learn that their new vision statement will say that the town is “known for its natural beauty, food and wine and unrivalled cultural experiences” (“‘Wine country’ at the heart of a controversy over new tourism vision,” May 8).

The phrase “cultural experiences” is too weak. The town is noted for its extremely rich heritage. It is a town of firsts and preserves an incredible collection of built heritage.

Visitors come to the historic town of Niagara to experience its heritage ambience combined with visits to wineries, the Shaw, and so on. Would our wine industry, hospitality sector and the Shaw be as successful if it were not for the heritage setting? Other parts of Ontario can boast of wine and natural beauty, but attract far fewer tourists to their streets.

Our heritage is our most important asset from a tourism perspective. Let’s not forget how blessed we are with such a rich history and so many reminders of a dramatic past.

Ron Dale
NOTL