Nov 6, 2017 |
by William Kendall @WilliamKendall1
November 11th is a day of commemoration, drawn out of the First World War. On that date in 1918, an armistice was signed, ending the war between Germany and the Allies. The War To End All Wars didn’t accomplish that, of course, but out of that particular date came a long standing tradition. The day goes by different names- Armistice Day initially, Remembrance Day throughout the Commonwealth, and Veterans Day in the United States. At cenotaphs and memorials around the world, wreaths are placed, prayers are given, and mournful, subdued music rings out, including universal … read the rest. . .
Oct 12, 2017 |
by William Kendall @WilliamKendall1
Ghost stories abound throughout the world, from isolated homes in the countryside to small towns and even large cities.
Especially when October comes around and our thoughts turn to ghosts, goblins, and jack-o-lanterns. Such is the case in Ottawa, which has a wealth of ghost stories in some unexpected places, and even a tour company, the Haunted Walk, with several tailored tours of the city’s core and spooky stories that go along with it. One of those locales just happens to be our most prestigious hotel.
The Chateau Laurier is right downtown, on the east bank … read the rest. . .
Sep 11, 2017 |
by William Kendall @WilliamKendall1
Sometimes you pass by a building of significance, shut off to the public, and wonder what it would be like to step past those doors.
Doors Open is an opportunity that lets you do precisely that.
In the province of Ontario, from late April to early October each year, Doors Open Ontario presents events in cities and towns across the province, opening buildings to the public on a given date- buildings of historic and architectural interest. Some are churches, synagogues, mosques, or temples. Others are infrastructure related. Some are museums and galleries that might give the … read the rest. . .
Aug 9, 2017 |
by William Kendall @WilliamKendall1
The job of a Governor General is not the sort of post that would show up in the want ads, but if it did, it might read like this:
“Wanted: challenging temporary job applicant, generous pay and perks, official residence for five to seven years. The applicant must be fluent in English and French (with additional language comprehension a bonus), must be apolitical, well-educated and distinguished in their field, be well-traveled and willing to deal with endless ceremonies, be willing to put up with a battalion of Mounties in a protective detail 95% of the
… read the rest. . .
Jul 12, 2017 |
by William Kendall @WilliamKendall1
One of my early memories in childhood was going with my parents to an event held somewhere in the greater Toronto area. It was held in something like a convention center or other large space, where booths were set up to showcase different countries around the world, with a good many people spending time exploring the area. I don’t know why that memory sticks with me, but it’s left a curiosity about the world at large in me- even if I have yet to get out of North America.
This year is the 150th anniversary … read the rest. . .
