Mississauga First Nation, Blind River, and Destination Northern Ontario were awarded two accreditations at the recent Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO) 2022 summit held in Muskoka in late October.
TIAO awards were based on activities achieved during the pandemic.
“2021 continued to be a year that challenged our industry, reinforcing our need for determination and perseverance,” a TIAO news release stated. “It just made sense for us to continue to recognize those that have shown resiliency, gained inspiration from others and look towards rebuilding with the Ontario Resiliency Awards.”
This year’s awards have two new elements of criteria. The first is that each nomination must be able to provide the actions made toward diversity, equity, and inclusion in what they are being nominated for.
The second addition came from one of the most positive elements of the pandemic and the desire and opportunity to promote and collaborate.
The trio made the finalist list under the collaboration category, one for “Indigenous Tourism Operator”, and one for “Winter” for a recently built loop trail located at the end of Youngfox Road in Blind River.
“Mississaugi welcomes every opportunity to promote our beautiful region, through parks and trails, even more, to be able to collaborate with our neighbouring communities to win awards is the result of good relations. Baa Maa,” said Mississauga First Nation’s Chief Bob Chiblow.
“The Town of Blind River is thankful for its partner in recreation, development, and inclusive spaces, Mississauga First Nation. Blind River is committed to collaboration on many future projects with our neighbour.” Blind River Mayor Sally Hagman
“The trail named Aasaakamigo Assinii Miikana (Trail with the Mossy Rocks) has been designed to be a space that promotes year-round activity, rest, meditation, and learning, as well as act as an outdoor facility that can host inclusive events for the public,” said MFN economic development officer Jon Cada.
“Council would like to thank NOHFC, Trans Canada Trail, Destination Northern Ontario, and Cameco for project funding. We would also like to highlight above-and-beyond support from DNO’s Pat Forrest, Mike Wozny, and David MacLachlan. Lastly, thank you to Heather Bot of Algoma Country, and Marlaine Koehler of The Great Lakes Waterfront Trail who ensure our shared tourism product is current and shared province-wide,” Hagman added.
Blind River’s director of facilities and community services Karen Bittner shares how rewarding the project was.
“We were faced with every challenge imaginable on this one, and by working as a team, constantly troubleshooting, and having the support of two community councils, almost a dozen organizations, and too many people to count, we knew we could get this done. It is very fulfilling to see vehicles parked in the accessibility space.”
Aasaakamigo Assinii Miikana hosted its inaugural public event on Oct. 29. Timber Village Museum’s First Annual Twilight Trail brought over 680 guests of all ages to the loop.