Niagara At Large

A Brief One for a Break from the Bad and Ugly by Doug Draper

Posted June 10^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Judy Garland as Dorothy with her best Triend Toto in the classic film The Wizard of Oz

With all of the bad and ugly news that is coming our these days, I thought it would nice to have a little escape for a few minutes by sharing with you one of my favourite songs about  wishing for better world from one of my all-time favourite movies.

The song is ‘Somewhere Over The Rainbow’, performed so movingly by the late Judy Garland, whose birthday was today (June 10th, 1922) and the movie was 1939’s ‘The Wizard of Oz’, a much beloved film for generation after generation until this day.

And while you are watching Judy Garland’s Dorothy singing the song, by clicking on the screen below, let’s not forget the amazing little dog Terry, who played Toto, one of the most remembered canines ever, who was featured as her best friend in this film.

I hope you enjoy watching this clip from the film as much as I do and don’t think I am little to far gone for posting it here –

• Let’s Keep Striving To Find That Place Over The Rainbow, Doug Draper (And thanks to those of you out there who may have indulged me in posting this at a time when I think it might do all of us a little good.)

NIAGARA AT LARGE Encourages You To Join The Conversation By Sharing Your Views On This Post In The Space Following The Bernie Sanders Quote Below and by sharing the Niagara At Large site at www.niagaraatlarge.com with all of your friends and associates.

“A Politician Thinks Of The Next Election. A Leader Thinks Of The Next Generation.” – Bernie Sanders

“Bill C-232 would have required inmates who had been found to be dangerous offenders or those convicted of more than one first-degree murder to be assigned a security classification of maximum and confined in a maximum-security penitentiary or area in a penitentiary. Instead, the Liberal government voted against the bill.”                                                                                           – Niagara Falls Federal Conservative MP Tony Baldinelli

News from Niagara Falls Federal MP Tony Baldinelli and Canada’s Conservative Party

Posted June 10^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

A dated mug shot of convicted serial killer Paul Bernardo that I post with great reluctance here.

A Brief Foreword by Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper – Those who are regular visitors to Niagara At Large may know that this online news and commentary site is not in the practice of posting crime stories unless they have to do with crimes against our natural heritage, other living species,  and our environment in general. Outside of hate-driven attacks against people, I prefer to leave the rest of the crime coverage to the mainstream media.

Having said that, there remains an obvious, very understandable interest in Niagara and across the rest of the country in anything to do with convicted serial killer and rapist Paul Bernardo that is very hard, if not impossible, to ignore.

And in the case of the latest news about him, posted below, I find it difficult to understand why any member of Canada’s parliament, regardless of their political stripes, would vote against a bill that ensures that an all-round  monster like Bernardo is kept in maximum security prison for the rest of his life. Continue reading →

“My Private Member’s Bill is about doing what is right, by ensuring criminal monsters such as Paul Bernardo (killer of St. Catharines/Niagara school girl Kristen French and Burlington, Ontario teen Leslie Mahaffy)… are returned to serve their sentences in a maximum-security penitentiary, where they rightly belong.”  – Niagara Falls Federal Conservative Party MP Tony Baldinelli

A News Release from the Conservative Party of Canada

Posted June 9^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Ottawa, ON – Today (June 9th, 2026), Private Member’s Bill C-232, An Act to amend the Corrections and Conditional Release Act (Maximum Security Offenders), introduced by Tony Baldinelli, Conservative Member of Parliament for Niagara Falls—Niagara-on-the-Lake, will conclude second reading debate in the House of Commons. Members of Parliament are expected to have a chance to vote for the legislation tomorrow.

If passed, Baldinelli’s Bernardo Bill will require that inmates who have been found to be dangerous offenders or convicted of more than one first-degree murder be assigned a security classification of “maximum” and confined in a maximum-security penitentiary or area in a penitentiary. Continue reading →

An Invite to All from the Organizers of Horse Sense For Kids Niagara

Posted June 9^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Photos courtesy of Horse Sense For Kids

A Brief Foreword Note from Doug Draper – What a wonderful way this is to being people of all ages in our Niagara community together. Please do what you can to attend it with our children and do anything else you can to support it.)

FENWICK  in Niagara, ON – Families across Niagara are invited to spend an afternoon at the farm during the upcoming HSFK Open Farm – Celebrating Horses & Community on Saturday, June 13 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at BNR Stables, home of Horse Sense for Kids.

Admission is free and all ages are welcome.

This relaxed, family-friendly event offers visitors the opportunity to meet the horses, explore the farm, and enjoy an afternoon focused on connection, community, and fun. Continue reading →

Tell Doug Ford: Stop selling off the land that feeds us.

A Call-Out To All of Us from the Green Party of Ontario

Posted June 9^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Every morning, Ontario farmers tend the fields that put food on your table. But the Ford government has spent the past eight years selling off that same land to PC donors and rich investors to build more highways and sprawl.

Ontario is losing 319 acres of it every single day. These are the fields that supply your grocery store, cleared for an investor’s profit. Continue reading →

A Statement from the Office of Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney

Posted June 8^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Ottawa, Ontario – “On behalf of the Government of Canada, I congratulate Her Excellency the Right Honourable Louise Arbour as she formally assumes the role of the 31st Governor General of Canada.

The Governor General is the guardian of our constitutional order, a symbol of unity, and above all, a steward of our commitment to peace, order, and good government. Canadians entrust the Governor General to defend our institutions, to uphold our values, and to represent our ambition to build a stronger, fairer country for all. These duties call for sound judgment, deep learning, and an unwavering commitment to the rule of law. Continue reading →

Niagara Jazz Festival Announces 2026 Summer Festival Line-Up

June 25-28, 2026 –  Niagara-on-the-Lake

July 4-5, 2026 – St. Catharines + Port Dalhousie

“I’m incredibly excited for our 13th summer season and can’t believe how far we’ve come! It’s incredible!! … The musicians joining us this season are truly exceptional, and we’re honored to welcome them to our stages here in Niagara. My heart is full.” – Niagara Jazz Festival Executive Artistic Director and Co-Creator Juliet Dunn

Posted June 8th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

NIAGARA, Ontario —The Niagara Jazz Festival is proud to announce the artist and presentation line-up for the 2026 Niagara Jazz Festival, taking place June 25 – 28 & July 4 – 5 in Niagara-on-the-Lake and St. Catharines.

Now celebrating its 13th year, the award-winning festival continues to showcase remarkable, compelling, multicultural, and genre-blending jazz talent in some of Niagara’s most stunning settings—from picturesque wineries to elegant jazz venues and acclaimed local eateries throughout Niagara-on-the-Lake and St. Catharines.

This year’s festival is energized by a newly appointed all-volunteer Board of Directors comprised of experienced professionals from the fields of music and festival production, media and marketing, arts organizations, legal services, education, Indigenous organizations, humanitarian programming, fundraising, and community development. Continue reading →

A  Commentary by Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper

Posted on World Environment Day, June 5^th, 2026

This June 5th marks World Environment Day today – the 54th day of its kind since it was first established by the United Nation General Assembly in 1972 – but not that it appears this year that many people have noticed.

Even the Office of Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney, that has a habit of coming out with a canned “statement” ffrom the PM for almost every conceivable day except ones that might honour cow chips or belly button lint, has not come out with one to recognize World Environment Day – although, we will see. The day is only a little more than half through.

If this aging journalist, who spent a good deal of his years at newspapers and other media venues reporting on environment issues, sounds a little disheartened to you at this point in time, I would have to confess that you are  damn right. I am. Continue reading →

“A robust, efficient and modern Regional Road network is crucial to help move residents and vehicles across our area as the region grows to meet local and provincial growth demands.”                     – Jill Stephen, Niagara Region’s Associate Director of Infrastructure Planning.

A Call-Out To Niagara Residents from the Regional Government

Posted June June 5^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

As Niagara anticipates growing over the next few decades, Niagara Region transportation experts are planning for an efficient and viable road network to move people and goods across communities to meet that demand and is asking for the public’s insight into developing this crucial blueprint.

The Region has started its  Niagara Transportation Plan (TMP) 2051 [https://www.niagararegion.ca/projects/transportation-master-plan-update/default.aspx], which is a comprehensive update to the Region’s 2017 Transportation Master Plan.

Its purpose is to establish a long-term strategy for our Regional network that is sustainable, affordable and economically viable, ensuring it can safely and reliably support residents, businesses and visitors over the next 25 years. Continue reading →

“This milestone is not only about celebrating 150 years of service, but also about recognizing the essential role the Decew Water Treatment Plant continues to play in delivering safe drinking water to Niagara Region’s residents and businesses. We are very proud of Niagara Region’s water infrastructure and the expertise and dedication of our talented staff to provide reliable, world-class drinking water to all of our communities every single day.”  – Phill Lambert, Director of Water-Wastewater Services 

A News Release and a Door Open Invite from Niagara’s Regional Government 

Posted June 4^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large 

From its humble beginnings delivering safe, reliable drinking water starting in St. Catharines in 1875, the Decew Water Treatment Plant has grown and evolved into a state-of-the-art facility that now supplies millions of litres of world-class drinking water to tens of thousands of Niagara residents every day.

And that is cause for celebration. That is why, as part of Doors Open St. Catharines on Sat., June 13, 2026, Niagara Region invites residents to celebrate this milestone anniversary of the Decew Water Treatment Plant being in operation for 150 years.  Continue reading →

A News Release from Tax Fairness Canada, a non-profit citizens group advocating for a fairer tax system for Canadians

Posted June 4^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

As another scorching summer begins and gas prices continue to soar, support for a tax on Big Oil’s windfall profits is also heating up.

[New polling](https://www.taxfairness.ca/civicrm/mailing/url?u=8445&qid=2680951) shows that two in three Canadians support a windfall profits tax on Canada’s Big Oil companies, which are set to rake in $90 billion of windfall profits as a result of Donald Trump’s war in Iran. Continue reading →

“AI is here. The question is whether it will improve the lives of all Canadians or benefit only a few. AI can shorten our emergency room wait times and make a small business more competitive, if it is governed by Canadian values with a clear goal of improving the lives of all Canadians. That’s why we need an ambitious new strategy: AI for All.”— Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada

News from the Office of Canada’s Prime Minister, Mark Carney

Posted June 4^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

The world is changing rapidly, with intensifying economic competition, accelerating technological change, and a global race to secure the talent, infrastructure, and innovation that will define the future. Artificial intelligence (AI) is at the centre of that transformation, changing how people live and work, how businesses compete, and how countries protect their sovereignty.

While Canada has world-class talent and one of the fastest-growing digital sectors in the G7, we are among the slowest countries to adopt AI at scale. This gap risks undermining public trust, driving Canadian talent and startups abroad, and leaving critical parts of our AI ecosystem under foreign control. 

With the global AI market projected to reach U.S.$4.8 trillion by 2033, Canada has a limited but real opportunity to ensure AI works for all Canadians – to harness this technology to create jobs, protect Canadians, and strengthen our prosperity. Continue reading →

A Message from Theresa McClenaghan, Executive Director, Canadian Environmental Law Association (CELA)

Posted June 4^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

We know you’re busy, but suspect you’ll want to weigh in on a proposal that could significantly weaken the laws that protect our water, human health, species at risk, and future generations.

Last month, the federal government released a discussion paper proposing significant changes to the way major projects are assessed and approved in Canada. Continue reading →

News from Environmental Defence Canada, a not-for-profit group dedicated to protecting and preserving our environment

Posted June 2^nd, 2026 on Niagara At Large

(A Brief Foreword by Doug Draper at Niagara At Large – So you think that the climate crisis doesn’t impact you? If you pay property and car insurance, please read the following, then go back and have a conversation with those who argue that climate change is not a problem or it is a hoax.)

Climate impacts have added an estimated $533 to the average Canadian homeowner’s annual insurance premium since 2008, according to new research released today by Environmental Defence Canada.

The report, titled Mounting Costs: How Climate Change Is Costing You More than $500 Extra Per Year in Home Insurance, was conducted in partnership with the University of Toronto and analyzed data from Canada’s largest home insurer, Intact. The findings show that weather-related insurance claims have risen 11.9 per cent annually since 2008, far outpacing routine claims, which have increased just 1.97 per cent per year over the same period. Continue reading →

A News Release from Brock University in Niagara, Ontario

Posted June 2nd, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Jim Willwerth, Associate Professor of Biological Sciences and Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute (CCOVI) Researcher, joins Debbie Inglis, Professor of Biological Sciences and CCOVI Director, at the Brock University Norris W. Walker Research Farm.

The institution marked a milestone moment on Friday, May 29, welcoming supporters and industry partners to the Brock University Norris W. Walker Research Farm<https://brocku.ca/brock-news/2025/09/brock-farm-to-flourish-with-legacy-gift-from-norris-walker/> and signalling the next step in the Clean Agriculture for Sustainable Production (CASP) project that will strengthen Canada’s roots in sustainable farming.

The expansive green space on Merrittville Highway just south of Brock’s main campus will allow researchers to expand on the University’s existing Clean Plant Program, which is critical to supporting Canada’s $11.6-billion grape and wine industry. Continue reading →

“The protection of citizens is the most fundamental responsibility of government. As antisemitism surges in Canada, we are taking decisive action to ensure no Canadian community is driven from our shared public institutions by hatred. We are building a country where Jewish Canadians can be visibly, fully, and joyfully Jewish in public life.”                                                                       –  Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada

News from the Office of Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney

Posted June 2nd, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Canada’s fundamental insight is that unity does not require uniformity. We believe our differences are strengths to be nurtured, not risks to be managed. We believe that faith, language, heritage, and tradition are not concessions to citizenship – they are expressions of it.

Today, that nature is being tested, as Canadian Jewish communities face a surge of antisemitism to levels not seen in the post-war period. Last year, over two-thirds of all religion-motivated hate crimes were directed at Jewish Canadians, who make up only 1% of the population. That same scourge is occurring around the world – it plagues Europe, Australia, and the United States.

The shame is global. Our actions must be local.

Continue reading →

“His recent concerts are a thunderous call to fight for democracy. The nation could use more like him.”

By Steven Greenhouse, The Guardian, U.K.

Posted June 1^st, 2026 on Niagara At Large

The Bruce Springsteen I first saw in concert in Buffalo and Toronto, all those years ago.

(A Brief Foreword Note by Doug Draper at Niagara At Large – I have been a huge fan of Bruce Springsteen since the 1970s when he released albums like ‘The Wild, The Innocent & The E Street Shuffle’, ‘Born To Run’ and Darkness On The Edge Of Town’. I was convinced then that he was an authentic voice for everyday people, but I never could have imagined how much that voice would have him standing up with so much principle and courage today against the likes of a monster like Donald Trump. So please indulge me while I post this great peace on Bruce Springsteen by Steven Greenhouse from The Guardian newspaper in the U.K. and I hope at least some of you find some hope and inspiration in it too. Here it goes -)

The Bruce Springsteen concert I went to in Brooklyn last week was unlike any concert I’ve attended in decades. It was far more than a fabulous, joyous concert; it was also an inspiring resistance event.

From the get-go, the Boss made clear that this concert would be part of the anti-Trump resistance. It was a three-hour-long ode to the resistance and a thunderous call to Springsteen fans to step up and do more to fight for democracy and against authoritarianism. In this way, Springsteen is serving as a model for how celebrities can stand up against Trump and fight for what’s right. Continue reading →

An Invite To All From the Niagara Falls Nature Club

Posted June 1st, 2026 on Niagara At Large

WEDNESDAY WEEKLY WALKS SEASON IS BACK!

WE INVITE YOU TO JOIN US FOR OUR NEXT OUTING!

The Niagara Falls Nature Club welcomes you to participate in leisurely walks as we enjoy the flora and fauna of Niagara. The walks are rated from 1 to 10: 1 is easy and 10 is strenuous. For more information or if you have any questions, please get in touch!

DATE: Wednesday June 3rd 2026
TIME: 7:00 PM
LOCATION: Niagara College Ponds (Glendale Campus)
DIFFICULTY RATING:  2/10

DESCRIPTION:

Niagara College Ponds

On the Wetland Ridge Trail, we will find marsh birds, turtles, and frogs.

Meet at Niagara College, 135 Taylor Rd., NOTL, at the south-east corner of the back parking lot near the greenhouse. Free parking!

RSVP to niagarafallsnatureclub@gmail.com to register!

WE LOOK FORWARD TO WANDERING WITH YOU! 

SEEKING OUTING LOCATIONS AND LEADERS 

We are always seeking new locations for the Club’s Wednesday evening walks and outings within the Niagara Peninsula. Please contact us if you have a spot in mind for viewing various flora and fauna. Let us know if you are interested in leading or co-leading an outing or walk this year!

Please be sure to complete the required waiver form(s) to attend NFNC Walks and Outings

WAIVER FORM 

Click here for our 2026 Wednesday Walk Schedule!

Visit our Website!

Presenting the first encyclical of his papacy, Pope Leo XIV warned that artificial intelligence risks deepening inequality, weakening human relationships and concentrating power unless guided by ethical oversight.

News from Josephine Peterson, Catholic News Service

Posted May 31st, 2026 on Niagara At Large

A Brief Foreword Note by Doug Draper at Niagara At Large – I am not a Catholic or a church goer of any kind. But just as I have posted messages  the late Pope Francis has shared with the world on the climate crisis because I believed they were worth all of us paying attention to, I feel the same about this message from Pope Leo on the threat Artificial Intelligence poses to our humanity – 

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Presenting the first encyclical of his pontificate, Pope Leo XIV warned that artificial intelligence must be “disarmed,” urging governments, tech leaders and society to confront the rapidly growing technology before it weakens human relationships, critical thinking and peace itself.

With its authoritative teaching, the 82-page encyclical, “Magnifica Humanitas” (“Magnificent Humanity”), significantly boosts the Catholic Church’s position as an active voice in discussions over artificial intelligence, autonomous weapons, labor, human dignity and the concentration of technological power among a handful of corporations.

“Peace, not merely the absence of war, is justice at work,” Pope Leo said May 25 during a presentation unveiling the document in the Vatican’s Synod Hall to an audience filled with members of the Roman Curia, reporters and special guests. “But when technology weakens our critical sense, peace itself is at risk.” Continue reading →

A Brief Commentary by Doug Draper

Posted May 29^th. 2026 on Niagara At Large

For the past two months now, several hundreds of citizens from across Niagara have gathered in front of the Pen Centre Shopping Mall off Glendale Avenue in St. Catharines to demonstrate their opposition to the havoc the Doug Ford government has been wreaking on our public health care and education services, on environment and conservation protection rules and on our local systems of democracy.

A rally of Niagara citizens earlier this spring in front of the Pen Centre shopping mall.

Here is your chance to join them and to let Ford and his supporters know that we are not going to put up with the damage he is doing to our communities and all we need to keep them healthy places to live in any more for us, for our children and for everyone who follows.

NIAGARA AT LARGE Encourages You To Join The Conversation By Sharing Your Views On This Post In The Space  Below and by sharing the Niagara At Large site at www.niagaraatlarge.com with all of your friends and associates.

Visit us every day on www.niagaraat.arge.com and on Doug Draper’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/doug.draper.180 and encourage everyone else you know to do the same. Let’s build media outlets for local news and commentary!

News from Brock University in Niagara, Ontario

Posted May 29^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

(A Brief Foreword by Doug Draper at Niagara At Larte – I am honoured to post this good news about this very fine person in our midst on Niagara At Large. Congratulations to Tim Johnson and may his contributions to our community of communities be an inspiration to all.)

Tim Johnson, President of the Niagara Academy for Indigenous Relations, will receive an honorary doctorate during Brock’s Spring Convocation on Thursday, June 11. Photo courtesy of Brock University

Tim Johnson has dedicated his life to sharing Indigenous history and culture with people across North America and inspiring them to learn more.

During Brock University’s Spring Convocation next month, the President of the Niagara Academy for Indigenous Relations hopes to spark that same inspiration in the graduating class.

Johnson will deliver the Convocation address on Thursday, June 11 at the 10 a.m. ceremony, where he will also be presented with an honorary Doctor of Laws from the University recognizing his accomplishments and contributions.

Throughout his expansive career of more than 45 years, Johnson has served in several roles and advised on many initiatives that amplify the importance of recognizing Indigenous history. Continue reading →

A News Release from the Constituency Office of Niagara Falls NDP MPP Wayne Gates

Posted May 29^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Falls NDP MPP Wayne Gates, representing Niagara Falls, Niagara-on-the-Lake and Fort Erie

QUEEN’S PARK — MPP Wayne Gates (Niagara Falls) teamed up with Health Critic MPP France Gélinas (Nickel Belt) to take action to protect young people from the growing xxx of youth vaping by co-sponsoring and passing Bill 125, Vaping is not for kids Act, through first reading.

“I hear from parents and teachers in Niagara that they are frustrated that vaping products are being targeted to our children and teenagers.” said MPP Gates.

“We cannot sit back while more and more young people become addicted to nicotine  We all are all grateful for the decades of work public health agencies have done to raise awareness of the risks of smoking – this bill is about putting making sure we are not going backwards, putting the health and well-being of kids first.” Continue reading →

A Brief Commentary by Doug Draper

Posted May 28^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Trump seems to be circling the drain, according to many recent popularity polls conducted in his country, but the numbers show there are still tens-of-millions of hardcore supporters who are declaring their  willingness to follow him right up to and  through the gates of hell.

Here is a computerized rendition of one Trump stalwart that a friend and regular reader of Niagara At Large just sent me that may help explain the kind of twisted, up-side-down “logic” behind why –

In the same spirit, here is a depiction of die-hard MAGA cult members that comedian Jimmy Kimmel depicted on his late night show a month or two ago.

To watch it, click on the screen immediately below –

What is so sad about these satirical pieces is how close they appeaar to be to the truth.

• God Help America and God Help Us All. Doug Draper, Niagara At Large

NIAGARA AT LARGE Encourages You To Join The Conversation By Sharing Your Views On This Post In The Space  Below and by sharing the Niagara At Large site at www.niagaraatlarge.com with all of your friends and associates.

Visit us every day on www.niagaraat.arge.com and on Doug Draper’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/doug.draper.180 and encourage everyone else you know to do the same. Let’s build media outlets for local news and commentary!

Former federal Liberal Environment Minister Steven Gilbeault’s “departure comes as Prime Minister Carney’s government guts Canada’s climate laws and policies and is proposing to roll back at least 50 years of environmental progress. PM Carney is overseeing the worst evisceration of environmental law in Canadian history in a futile and misguided attempt to appease the fossil fuel industry and Alberta’s Premier Smith.”

A Statement from Tim Gray, Executive Director of Environmental Defence Canada, a nation-wide citizens group dedicated to the protection and preservation of our natural environment.

Posted May 27^th, 2027 on Niagara At Large

Steven Guilbeault, former federal Liberal Environment Minister and climate action champion, will be leaving government in the wake of Prime Minister Mark Carney striking tar sand pipeline deals with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and moves to weaken Canada’s climate change measures

Toronto – Environmental Defence extends its gratitude to Steven Guilbeault for his years of dedication to Canada.

In his time as Minister of the Environment and Climate Change, he made significant progress in building a robust climate action framework for the country and did everything in his power to put us on a path to a better, more just future.

He worked to hold Canada accountable to meeting its climate targets, developed a strategy to build a clean, competitive and expanding electricity grid, capped pollution from the country’s largest emitters, upheld polluter pays mechanisms, ended many fossil fuel subsidies, addressed toxic chemicals, protected biodiversity and limited plastic pollution. Continue reading →

A Brief Tribute Posted by Doug Draper on Niagara At Large with a remembrance aired on PBS

Posted May 27^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

He was, among so many of those he performed with, from Charlie Parker and John Coltrane to  Thelonious Monk and Miles Davis, one of the very last of the great legends from one of the greatest eras of jazz music standing.

Sonny Rollins, who will almost surely be remembered by lovers of jazz music everywhere for one of the greatest  albums from that genre of all time, 1956’s Saxophone Colossus, died this past May 25^th at his home in Woodstock, New York at age 95.

He was a living, breathing encyclopedia of the history of jazz music from the late 1940s until he took his last breath, and one can only hope that others mined as much as they could of that remarkable musical history from him before he finished his journey on this earth.

To watch some of that history, aired on PBS, click on the screen immediately below –

• R.I.P. Sonny Rollins

NIAGARA AT LARGE Encourages You To Join The Conversation By Sharing Your Views On This Post In The Space  Below and by sharing the Niagara At Large site at www.niagaraatlarge.com with all of your friends and associates.

Visit us every day on www.niagaraat.arge.com and on Doug Draper’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/doug.draper.180 and encourage everyone else you know to do the same. Let’s build media outlets for local news and commentary!

A News Release from the Constituency Office of St. Catharines NDP MPP Jennie Stevens

Posted May 27^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

St. Catharines NDP MPP Jennie Stevens in front of abandoned General Motors site off Ontario Street in St. Catharines

QUEEN’S PARK – NDP MPP Jennie Stevens (St. Catherines) tabled a motion (this May 27^th) calling on the Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks to use powers under Sections 17 and 18 of the Environmental Protection Act to hold General Motors accountable for remediation of the former Ontario Street GM property in St. Catharines:

“Fifteen years after General Motors abandoned the Ontario Street site, St. Catharines residents are still living beside contamination, unanswered questions, and a complete lack of accountability,” said MPP Stevens. Continue reading →

“SCOPE Niagara is part of a broader provincial network, enabling collaboration across regions to ensure patients can access specialized care when and where they need it.”

A News Release from Scope Niagara, a group operated by Niagara Health to help community physicians connect patients with the care they need

Posted May 26^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

For many primary care providers in Niagara, navigating referral pathways and accessing timely specialist care can be challenging. Over the past four years, SCOPE Niagara has helped change that by connecting physicians to real-time specialist advice and support.

Launched on May 25, 2022, SCOPE Niagara — Seamless Care Optimizing the Patient Experience — was designed to help community physicians connect patients to the right care, at the right time. Through a simple phone call, fax or email, primary care providers can access hospital-based specialists for clinical guidance or outpatient referrals, often avoiding unnecessary visits to the Emergency Department (ED). Continue reading →

“Niagara’s beaches are an important part of summer in our community, and we want everyone to enjoy them safely.”              –  Dr. Azim Kasmani, Medical Officer of Health for Niagara Region.

A News Release from Niagara Region’s Public Health Department

Posted May 27^th,  2026 on Niagara At Large

Bay Beach in the Crystal Beach area of Fort Erie, Niagara on a sunny, summer day

Niagara, Ontario – As warm weather returns and beach season begins, Niagara Region Public Health is launching its annual  testing program, which monitors public beaches from Victoria Day through Labour Day.

Alongside this program, Public Health is offering tips to help residents and visitors experience Niagara’s beaches in healthy ways. Continue reading →

“The Greenbelt shows us what’s possible when nature is given space to breathe.” – Ontario Nature’s Acting Conservation Science and Stewardship Director, Jenna Quinn

News from the non-profit citizens group, Ontario Nature

Posted May 25th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Toronto – On World Biodiversity Day, (this past May 22nd, 2026) a new report published by Ontario Nature demonstrates the critical role that the Greenbelt plays as a safe haven for some of Ontario’s most vulnerable species.

The report – Species at Risk in the Greenbelt: Successes, Challenges and Opportunities – shows that since 2004, the number of species at risk living in the Greenbelt has increased by 68%, rising from 72 to 121 species. That growth far outpaces provincial trends, confirming the Greenbelt’s critical importance for biodiversity in southern Ontario. Continue reading →

News from Ontario’s Official Opposition NDP Party

Posted May 25th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Official Opposition Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles (and some of her NDP members) held a press conference this May 22nd; where they introduced a bill to scrap the HST on all food and drink (https://www.ola.org/en/legislative-business/bills/parliament-44/session-1/bill-113) , and prevent grocery monopolies from using lease agreements to stifle competitive pricing.

“After eight years of Doug Ford, affordability has never been further out of reach,” said Stiles. “People are hurting every time they go to pay for their groceries, trying to stretch a dollar further and further just to feed their families. Continue reading →

Released by the Office O Canada’s Prime Minister

Posted Mary 25th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

(A Brief Foreword Note from Doug Draper at Niagara At Large – Sad but not surprising, the United States – now dominated by the Trump administration –  did not sign on to this statement. And Trump thinks he deserves a Nobel Peace Prize?)

“Statement by the leaders of Canada, Australia, France, Germany, Italy, New Zealand and the United Kingdom on the situation in the West Bank.

Over the past few months, the situation in the West Bank has deteriorated significantly. Settler violence is at unprecedented levels. The policies and practices of the Israeli government, including a further entrenchment of Israeli control, are undermining stability and prospects for a two-state solution. Continue reading →

Ford government, Niagara West MPP Sam Oosterhoff

A News Release from Niagara West Ford Government MPP Sam Oosterhoff

Posted May 25th, 2026

BEAMSVILLE – Sam Oosterhoff, MPP for Niagara West, welcomed the groundbreaking of a new municipal transformer station in Lincoln, today, which when complete, will add critical capacity and increase resiliency for electrical customers in Niagara West.

Niagara Peninsula Energy is investing more than $35 million to build the transformer station.

The electrical distribution project will step down power from an adjacent Hydro One Networks transmission line to support three existing transformer stations in Smithville, Vineland and Beamsville. Continue reading →

A Brief Word from Doug Draper with a Song by John Fogerty of Creedence Clearwater Revival

Posted on a very rainy Saturday, May 23^rd, 2026 on Niagara At Large

I don’t know about you but for me, this weather we have been having is starting to get a little annoying.

As I am sure at least some of you do know who have been visiting Niagara At Large over the years, certain songs come often come to mind for me, depending on what is going down and on this super wet day in Niagara, I found myself singing this one.

Here it is performed  by John Fogerty, the man who wrote it and originally recorded it with his band Creedence Clearwater Revival, who is accompanied by  Bruce Springsteen, the late, great Robbie Robertson from The Band and other friends at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. I’m sure many of you will agree it is a perfect song for this day and so many others we have splashed through this spring of 2026.

To hear and watch it being performed, click on the screen immediately below –

And yes, I know that we need water for life and for all of the plants around us to grow, but a few more days with blue skies and sunshine would be nice right about now too.

• Doug Draper, Niagara At Large

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A Brief Commentary by Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper

Posted May 22^nd, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, spending time last year with Donald Trump down in his Mar-a-Lago den for the most rich and privileged.

While so many of us in the rest of Canada have stood up for our country’s sovereignty and for  the values our country cherishes in the wake of Trump’s punishing tariffs and “51^st state” threats against us, the screwball Premier of Alberta, Danielle Smith, and sizable segment of her ultra-right wing Conservative Party are supporting referendums for  people in their province to vote on to leave Canada.

My understanding, from many of the news reports I have read and listened to, is that a majority of Albertans do not support this push to split with Canada. A majority in that province   want to stay in our country.

I hope that is true, and if it is, my message to those in Alberta who want to leave is: “Go all the way right now. Move to the United States under Trump and see how much you like it there. Continue reading →

“The environment is getting pushed into the background and this is crazy.” – Jane Goodall

Posted by Doug Draper on Niagara At Large

May 22^nd, 2026

We shouldn’t let other challenges we are facing in our lives, in our communities and around the world leave the urgent need to address the climate crisis and other threats to our natural environment behind.

To hear what world-renown naturalist and environmental activist Jane Goodall had to say about that not long before her death at age 91 this past December, 2025, click on the screen immediately below –

To read a tribute to Jane Goodall, posted on Niagara At Large following her death, click on – https://niagaraatlarge.com/2025/12/31/in-2025-we-lost-one-of-the-greatest-friends-this-earth-all-who-live-on-it-had/

NIAGARA AT LARGE Encourages You To Join The Conversation By Sharing Your Views On This Post In The Space  Below and by sharing the Niagara At Large site at www.niagaraatlarge.com with all of your friends and associates.

Visit us every day on www.niagaraat.arge.com and on Doug Draper’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/doug.draper.180 and encourage everyone else you know to do the same. Let’s build media outlets for local news and commentary!

A Statement by Environmental Defemce Canada’s Program Manager Rebecca Kolarich

Posted May 22^nd. 2026 on Niagara At Large

Toronto – Earlier this May, the provincial government bypassed public consultation and quietly passed Bill 98—a move that keeps the door open to water privatization in Ontario. By doing so, it shrugged off a golden opportunity to put its words into action and ensure that Ontario’s water and wastewater systems remain public.

While Bill 98 included minor amendments to the Water and Wastewater Public Corporations Act (WWPCA), the changes are nowhere near enough to protect Ontario’s water from stealth privatization. The government had the chance to do right by Ontarians and use Bill 98 to keep water public, but it chose not to. Continue reading →

New analysis from Environmental Defence reveals that in 2025, the Government of Canada provided over $10 billion in subsidies and public financing to oil and gas companies and projects. 

News from Environmental Defence Canada, a not-for-profit citizens group dedicated to protecting and preserving out environment

Posted May 21st. 2026 on Niagara At Large

New analysis from Environmental Defence Canada reveals that the Government of Canada provided over $10 billion to the oil and gas industry in 2025, and over $85 billion since 2020. This ongoing support to the fossil fuel industry exposes Canadians to growing financial and climate risks while the global economy shifts towards clean energy. 

“The federal government continues to pour billions into fossil fuel companies, even as the industry stands to make massive windfall profits, with billions more on the table through the MOU’s proposed pipeline and Pathways CCS project,” said Aly Hyder Ali, Senior Program Manager at Environmental Defence. Continue reading →

A Brief Comment by Doug Draper, with a video of Bruce Springsteen on Stephen Colbert’s second to last show

Posted May 21^st, 2026 on Niagara At Large

As Trump continues turning America into a totalitarian state where everything, including what you can watch on a video screen, comes under his control, Stephen Colbert, who never hesitated to take jabs at the ‘dear leader’ on his Lake  Show, is airing CBS for the last time this May 22^nd.

This May 21^st, on the second-to-last night for the show, Bruce Springsteen made an appearance in support of him and sang the song he released this past winter about the ICE thugs terrorizing American cities called ‘Streets of Minneapolis’.

To watch it, click on the screen immediately below, and consider tuning into Colbert’s last show tonight at 11:30 P.M. –

We should no longer feel any comfort – as we once may have – living next to this country.  Trump’s America  is now like living across from what is rapidly becoming and in many cases already is, a Soviet Union/North Korean-like totalitarian state. – Doug Draper

NIAGARA AT LARGE Encourages You To Join The Conversation By Sharing Your Views On This Post In The Space  Below and by sharing the Niagara At Large site at www.niagaraatlarge.com with all of your friends and associates.

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All She Wants For Her Generation & Generations Yet To Come Is A Future,  Free From A Growing Climate Crisis That Is Wreaking Havoc On The Life-Sustaining Resources On Our Planet

A Brief One from Doug Draper

Posted May 20^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Here is yet another young person, urging us to take real – not just token -action.

This past May 17^th on the long weekend, CBC Radio’s program ‘What On Earth’ – an excellent weekly program on climate change- a segment was aired on the anxiety the climate crisis is causing for kids.

Particularly moving were the words of a 12-year-old girl that were played at the beginning of a program – words that all of her elders, particularly those who are not taking the climate crisis seriously should hear.

What she had to say brought tears to my eyes. Unless you are as greedy and as heartless as someone like a Donald Trump, a Danielle Smith (premier of Alberta), or any one of a number of Big Oil barons, it should bring tears to yours too, along with a resolve to DO SOMETHING.

To hear her, click, click on the following link then click on the icon that says listen – https://www.cbc.ca/listen/live-radio/1-429-what-on-earth/clip/16215089-how-kids-save-climate-anxiety

Shame on those of us – particularly those in leadership positions in business and government – who are still not giving the climate emergency the attention it deserves

• Doug Draper, Niagara At Large

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Oil Prices, Gas Taxes, and the Coming Inflation: Analysis from the Centre for Future Work

We will also host a special webinar on Thursday, May 21, at 1:00PM Eastern time (10:00AM Pacific) to present this research. … Registration for the webinar is free; sign up to join the webinar here.

From Canadian Economist Jim Stanford. Director, Centre for Future Work

Posted May 20th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

The war in the Persian Gulf has caused the biggest disruption in oil supply in world history, and is driving up costs and inflation around the world. We’re feeling it directly in Canada, even though we produce three times as much oil as we use, and import none from the Persian Gulf.

In short, Canadians are facing a repeat of the painful experience of 2022, when another geopolitical misadventure (Russia’s invasion of Ukraine) sparked a destructive cycle of inflation, falling real wages, high interest rates, and near-recession. We know how that movie ended. Unfortunately, the sequel will be worse. Continue reading →

“Seeing the smiles on faces and hearing the joy and energy from everyone as they experience the best of Niagara, is truly what a Farmers Market is about – building community.”                        – St. Catharines   Market Coordinator Deanna Chakarova

News from the City of St. Catharines in Niagara, Ontario

Posted May 20^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

The St. Catharines Farmers Market is ready for the 2026 harvest season, with a record number of vendors lined up to serve the community this summer.

With more than 60 vendors offering a variety of easily accessible goods including farm to table produce, baking, cured meats, flowers, and a diverse selection of prepared foods, the Market will be expanding outside on Saturday, May 16.

The event kicks off with an opening welcome from Mayor Mat Siscoe live on the Market Stage at 9 a.m.
Continue reading →

Border Crossings To U.S. Have Declined Significantly Over Past Year, According to a recent CBC Report

A Brief Commentary by Doug Draper

Posted May 19^th on Niagara At Large

I have never been much of a flag waver in my life, but I have to confess that with the possible exceptions of visiting Canada’s grand 100th anniversary fair Expo ‘67 with my family as a kid and with the first time our very own Canadian flag was raised in 1965, I have never been prouder to be a Canadian than I am right now.

The way so many of us have responded to the insults and threats that Trump and his screwball cult of MAGA followers have hurled at Canada has been awe-inspiring. Continue reading →

“Positive Living Niagara’s CTS reversed more than 1,500 overdoses and connected thousands of people to healthcare, housing, and treatment supports. Losing this critical service will only push more overdoses into out emergency rooms and increase pressure on already stretched paramedics and hospitals.”

A Statement from St. Catharines NDP MPP Jennie Stevens

Posted May 19^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

St. Catharines NDP MPP Jennie Stevens

ST. CATHERINES, Ontario NDP MPP Jennie Stevens says the closure of Positive Living Niagara’s CTS  is another devastating example of the Ford government turning their back on communities in the middle of an overdose crisis fuelled by a toxic drug supply:

“This is a reckless and heartbreaking decision that will have real consequences in our community. Positive Living Niagara’s CTS reversed more than 1,500 overdoses and connected thousands of people to healthcare, housing, and treatment supports.

Losing this critical service will only push more overdoses into out emergency rooms and increase pressure on already stretched paramedics and hospitals. Continue reading →

“This training offers students opportunities to test their clinical and critical-thinking skills, which are foundational to nursing education.” – Brock University Graduate Program Clinical Supervisor Magdalena Dobosiewicz

News from Brock University in Niagara, Ontario

Posted May 19^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

As sounds of an explosion rang through the halls of Brock University’s East Academic buildings, Abigale Phillips sprang into action.

Brock University Bachelor of Nursing/Master of Nursing students triaged patients during a disaster simulation training exercise held on campus Friday, May 15. photo courtesy of Brock University

The second-year Bachelor of Nursing/Master of Nursing (BN/MN) student’s instincts — informed by the program’s practical learning — kicked into high gear as she responded to victims scattered about the emergency scene.

Phillips was one of 30 BN/MN students who put their clinical decision-making skills to the test on Friday, May 15 during a disaster simulation training exercise staged to resemble the aftermath of an explosion in a hospital parking lot.

Working in teams and wearing personal protective equipment, students rapidly assessed and triaged patients, including high-fidelity mannequins and live actors. Continue reading →

Posted on Niagara At Large by Doug Draper on Victoria Day, May 18^th, 2026

Out of the ‘British Invasion’ led by The Beatles in the 1960s came a great group called The Kinks with a slew of songs that became big hits, one of which is perfect for Victoria Day.

Here it is, performed live by the group. You can hear and watch by clicking on the screen immediately below –

• Happy Victoria Day To All, Doug Draper

Stay Tuned for a return of news and commentary on Niagara At Large this coming week. Meanwhile. scr0ll back to see what we have posted in weeks gone by and feel free to share your own comments on those.

NIAGARA AT LARGE Encourages You To Join The Conversation By Sharing Your Views On This Post In The Space  Below and by sharing the Niagara At Large site at www.niagaraatlarge.com with all of your friends and associates.

Visit us every day on www.niagaraat.arge.com and on Doug Draper’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/doug.draper.180 and encourage everyone else you know to do the same. Let’s build media outlets for local news and commentary!

“It’s time for Doug Ford to act – stop the privatization of our health care system and start properly fund our public healthcare and hospitals so that patients receive the care they need when they need it.” – Niagara Health Coalition

A Call-Out to All of Us from the Niagara Health Coalition, a regional chapter of the province-wide citizens-based Ontrio Health Coalition, dedicated to fighting for quality public health care for everyone.

Posted May 18^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Please join us on May 28 in support of our public hospitals as we send a strong message to Premier Doug Ford and Sylvia Jones Minister of Health. Stop Privatizing and Start Funding our public health system.

Niagara health is reducing our health services by laying off front line health professionals and health support staff. Existing staff are run off their feet trying to meet the needs of the patients many of whom are being cared for in hallways.

Our wait times are long, Our hospitals are well over 100% occupancy. Many patients are sent home too early and may not have the home care supports that they need.  Continue reading →

Unless Something Impossible To Ignore Comes Up, We Will Be Back To Posting News & Commentary In The Coming Week

In the meantime, you can view and comment on any of the news and commentary already posted here and on Doug Draper’s Facebook page.

Thanks always for supporting this site with your visits.

Doug Draper, Niagara At Large, May 15^th, 2026

Please do your best to support our Canada by enjoying your time here and supporting our local businesses, and by NOT crossing that border.

NIAGARA AT LARGE Encourages You To Join The Conversation By Sharing Your Views On This Post In The Space  Below and by sharing the Niagara At Large site at www.niagaraatlarge.com with all of your friends and associates.

Visit us every day on www.niagaraat.arge.com and on Doug Draper’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/doug.draper.180 and encourage everyone else you know to do the same. Let’s build media outlets for local news and commentary!

“Canada is the only G7 nation whose (carbon) emissions have increased since 1990.”

A Statement from Environmental Defence Canada, a not-for-profit citizens advocate for protecting Canada’s environment

Posted May 14^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney strike new tar sands pipeline construction deal, even while countless thousands of Smith’s supports campaign to leave Canada.

Ottawa – If Prime Minister Carney proceeds to gut the industrial carbon pricing, as reporting indicates, he will have put the final nail in Canada’s climate action coffin.

By agreeing to let Alberta reach a minimum effective industrial carbon price of $130/tonne by 2040, PM Carney will turn the industrial carbon pricing into a permission slip to pollute for another decade and a half, while Canadians deal with the devastating consequences. Continue reading →

Environmental Defence releases new backgrounder on the growing threat of climate change misinformation and disinformation, and reference resources for debunking misleading myths about fossil fuels.

“There’s a long history of Big Oil misleading the public about climate change, which is why we need to be absolutely clear about the main cause of global warming — coal, oil, and ‘natural’ gas.” – Emilia Belliveau, the energy transition program manager at Environmental Defence

A News Release from the citizens group Environmental Defence Canada

Posted May 12^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Montréal – Fossil Fuel Fact Check: Fighting climate disinformation and misleading oil and gas industry narratives is a new backgrounder that explains the rising threat of climate disinformation and its power to undermine effective climate solutions. Continue reading →

“Instead of giving multi-million dollar handouts to a private sector nuclear company, we could be supporting communities that want to build affordable renewable energy.”

News from the Ontario Clean Air Alliance, a citizens group dedicated to a cleaner, green environment for all

Posted May 13^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

The Ontario government and the nuclear lobby keep promising that new nuclear will avoid the massive cost overruns, long delays, and poor performance of the past that lead to soaring electricity rates. 

But then there is the real world.

Last week, Ontario Energy Minister Stephen Lecce announced that the province has directed the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) to subsidize Bruce Power’s $300 million pre- development budget for a new nuclear station.

That means Ontario electricity consumers are once again being forced to bankroll a high-cost nuclear project that could cost $110 billion. Continue reading →

The Doug Ford government yet to outline a jobs strategy as young workers face summer of unemployment

A Report from Data Shows, a professional, non-partisan data gathering venue based in Ontario, Canada

Posted May 12th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

No matter how many times Doug Ford repeats his pitch that Ontario is open for business or buys ads telling voters they are being protected, the monthly data keeps saying the opposite.

Statistics Canada’s April Labour Force Survey pegged Ontario unemployment rate at 7.5 per cent, third-highest in Canada, with young worker unemployment at 17.7 per cent, worst in the country. There were 672,900 unemployed workers in Ontario in April. Continue reading →

From the City of St. Catharines in Niagara, Ontario

Posted May 12^th, 2026 on Niagara At All

Emerging, student and established artists living in the Niagara Region are invited to submit their work to the 17th City of St. Catharines Annual Juried Art Exhibition, Current.

Niagara is shaped by currents – its waterways, its histories, and the forces that move through the region today. This year’s theme invites artists to explore both the literal flows that define this place and the cultural, social, and global currents influencing our present moment. Continue reading →

 “Dr. Rigg has provided clear, thoughtful and steady leadership during a time of change across the post-secondary sector.”            – Anne McCourt, Chair of Brock’s Board of Trustees.

A News Release from Brock University in Niagara, Ontario

Posted May 11^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Brock University President and Vice-Chancellor Lesley Rigg in her office at Schmon Tower. (Photo by Stephen Leithwood)

Brock University has reappointed Dr. Lesley Rigg to a second term as President and Vice-Chancellor. The unanimous decision was made by the University’s Board of Trustees at its recent meeting and comes at a time when President Rigg has just over one year left on her current five-year term. The new appointment takes effect Nov. 1, 2027.  

 Since joining Brock, Rigg has led the University through a period of significant progress, guiding the development and launch of its 2025-2030 Strategic Plan — a community-informed roadmap focused on transforming people and reimagining the future.  Continue reading →

“It’s easy for Doug Ford to tell young people to just work harder when he’s never had to worry about finding a summer job to pay tuition or rent. Young people are applying everywhere, trying to get experience, trying to build a future, and they’re still getting shut out.” – Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles

A News Release from Ontario’s NDP Official Opposition Party

Posted May 11^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

QUEEN’S PARK — Marit Stiles and the Ontario NDP are bringing forward an Opposition Day motion calling for a new Youth Summer Jobs Program to help young people find work and get experience at a time when too many are being shut out of the job market. 

“Doug Ford’s jobs disaster is leaving an entire generation behind,” said Stiles. “Young folks are sending out resumes everywhere, hearing nothing back, and wondering how they’re supposed to build a future when they can’t even get a first job.”  Continue reading →

A Brief One For Our Mothers – Those Who Are Still With Us and Those Wh0 Are Gone – from Doug Draper

Posted on Mother’s Day, May 10^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

When you were growing up, how many times did your mother warn you not to do something, but there you ran off and did it anyway?

Then you wish you had of listened to your mother.

Here is all of the mother’s out there who did their best to raise us right.

To hear it, courtesy of the classic rock group Three Dog Nigh, click on the screen immediately below while I admit that I lost count of the number of times I did listen –

Thanks for trying Mom – Doug Draper, Niagara At Large

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This World Needs Many More Like Him

Posted by Doug Draper, May 10^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

“It seems to me that the natural world is the greatest source of excitement; the greatest source of visual beauty; the greatest source of intellectual interest. It is the greatest source of so much in life that makes life worth living.” ― David Attenborough

To watch a moving trailer for ‘Ocean’, David Attenborough’s latest nature documentary, click on the screen immediately below –

NIAGARA AT LARGE Encourages You To Join The Conversation By Sharing Your Views On This Post In The Space  Below and by sharing the Niagara At Large site at www.niagaraatlarge.com with all of your friends and associates.

Visit us every day on www.niagaraat.arge.com and on Doug Draper’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/doug.draper.180 and encourage everyone else you know to do the same. Let’s build media outlets for local news and commentary!

A Brief News Commentary by Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper

Posted May 8^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Well that’s it for a Niagara Regional Council with a Chair and 32 locally election members.

That’s also it for a Regional Council with a Chair chosen by those 32 council members elected by we, the people, across this region.

Thanks to Ontario Premier Doug Ford, those days of local decision making by representatives elected by us are all over!

In the wee, small hours of this past Thursday, May 7^th, after many of us across Niagara were home in bed, Ford and his Conservatives used their majority to drive through Bill 100 – also identified by the Orwellian title; ‘the Better Governance Bill’ – despite opposition from Niagara NDP MPPs Wayne Gates, Jeff Burch and Jennie Stevens, and from coalitions of citizens across the region. Continue reading →

Province protecting communities, creating jobs and supporting economic growth

“This investment strengthens the foundations of our communities. It means safer, more reliable drinking water for residents, modern infrastructure that can withstand extreme weather and the capacity our municipalities need to grow. But just as importantly, this is an investment in Niagara’s economic future.” – Brian Grant, Acting Niagara Regional Chair and Mayor of Wainfleet

A News Release from the Ontario Government of Premier Doug Ford

Posted May 7^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

THOROLD In Niagara, Ontario — The Ontario government is investing nearly $44 million to help rehabilitate drinking water, wastewater and stormwater infrastructure in the Niagara Region. The funding is through the Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program’s Health and Safety Water Stream (MHIP-HSWS) and will support access to safe drinking water, housing, job creation and protection for communities in the event of extreme weather events.

“As we continue to navigate economic uncertainty, our government is protecting Ontario by investing in critical infrastructure that drives growth, creates jobs and strengthens communities,” said Todd McCarthy, Acting Minister of Infrastructure. Continue reading →

“We need support and accountability from other levels of government. Selling off public assets is a dangerous and short-sighted move that puts long-term sustainability at risk.”                – Haley Bateman, Niagara Regional Councillor

A News Release from Niagara  Regional Councillor for St, Cathgarines, Haley Bateman

Posted May 7^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

St. Catharines Regional Councillor Haley Bateman

Niagara Region, ON – The provincial government has introduced several pieces of legislation that warrant close scrutiny from residents, workers, and those representing communities across Ontario. Among them is Bill 98, which proposes allowing municipalities to amortize the costs of infrastructure related to water and wastewater systems.

St. Catharines Regional Councillor Haley Bateman is raising serious concerns about the implications of this legislation, particularly around the potential for privatization.

“This legislation opens the door to privatization, despite claims to the contrary,” said Bateman. “To suggest otherwise is misleading. Permitting shareholders in water and wastewater systems is, by definition, privatization. The Act explicitly states that ‘a municipality, the Province of Ontario, the Government of Canada or an agent of any of them’ can hold shares in these systems. We cannot allow this to happen.” Continue reading →

“Local decisions should be made by the people who live here and elect their representatives, not dictated by Queen’s Park.”

News from the Constituency Office of Niagara Centre MPP Jeff Burch

Posted May 6^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Centre MPP Jeff Burch in provincial legislature

NIAGARA – Ontario NDP Shadow Minister for Municipal Affairs, Jeff Burch, says the Ford government is once again pulling a cheap shot on Ontarians by using late-night sittings to force through major changes to local democracy while most people are asleep.

“People should be asking themselves why this government always seems to pass its most controversial legislation in the middle of the night,” said Burch. Continue reading →

“The Ford government must empower local expert voices, and throw this ridiculous plan (to amalgamate conservation authorities) in the trash, where it belongs. … The Premier needs to stop meddling with municipalities, and focus more on funding the schools, hospitals, and roads they rely on.”

News from Ontario’s NDP Official Opposition Party

Posted May 5^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

QUEEN’S PARK — Ontario NDP Shadow Minister for Environment, Conservation, and Parks Peter Tabuns (Toronto Danforth); and Shadow Minister for Municipal Affairs Jeff Burch (Niagara Centre) are calling on the Ford government to scrap their planned amalgamation of the province’s regional conservation authorities (including the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority):

“Doug Ford and Minister McCarthy are hanging our conservation authorities out to dry,” said Tabuns. “The Conservatives are moving ahead with their senseless plan to shrink these authorities and preventing them from making their own decisions in the meantime. This decision will lead to contaminated water, costly flooding, and species loss. Continue reading →

“As Canada works to diversify our international relationships, we look first to our longstanding European partners and allies. We share the history, values, and ambition to build a better, more just future. In a more dangerous and divided world, a stronger partnership between Canada and Europe will create more stability, more security, and more prosperity on both sides of the Atlantic.” – Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada

A News Release from the Office of Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney

Posted May 4^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

(A Brief Foreword Note from Doug Draper at Niagara At Large – Here’s a high five for Prime Minister Mark Carney. This is the way to go. If Trump and his MAGA fanatics want to threaten Canada and treat our country so badly, it’s time to build our future with our friends and allies in Europe and do as much as we can to cut our ties with the United States.)

In a more dangerous and divided world, Canada’s new government is building our strength at home and diversifying our relationships with like-minded partners abroad. Bound by a shared history and common values, Canada and Europe are natural partners. By working more closely together, we can create greater stability, security, and prosperity for all.

Today (this May 4th, 2026), the Prime Minister, Mark Carney, concluded his first official visit to Armenia. He attended the 8th European Political Community Summit in Yerevan, marking the first time a non-European leader joined the Summit. Continue reading →

                   “Flowers are better than bullets.”                           –  Allison Krause, one of the four students killed by government troops on the campus of Kent State University in Ohio on May 4th, 1970

By Doug Draper

Posted May 4th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

The four students killed by government troops on the campus of Kent State University in Ohio on May 4th, 1970

I was finishing up one of my last years in high school in the spring of 1970 and like a lot of my peer sat the time, I was bursting with youthful hope and idealism.

In my mind and I believe in the minds of so many others, we were the generation that was going to end all wars, end gender and racial oppression,  end dictatorial rule in government and create  greener, safer and more affordable communities for all of us to live in.

And we were going do it free of violence and with chants of “we shall overcome”  and “give peace a chance.”

Then on one sunny spring day in May, 1970, a regiment of armed U.S. National Guardsmen (very reminiscent of the masked ICE squads roaming the streets of United States today) shot and killed four unarmed students on the campus of Kent State University in Ohio during a protest against an ongoing War in Vietnam that had already slaughtered tens-of-thousands of young Americans drafted to fight in it and hundreds of thousands of Vietnamese men, women and children. Continue reading →

“While our community’s story extends far beyond 150 years, rooted in the Indigenous peoples who first called this land home, we are proud to mark the 150th anniversary of St. Catharines’ official incorporation.” – Mat Siscoe, Mayor of St. Catharines

An Invite to All from the City of St. Catharines in Niagara, Ontario

Posted May 1st, 2026 on Niagara At Large

The City of St. Catharines is set to mark a milestone, and the community is invited to celebrate in a big way with a free, family-friendly event.

Join us on Saturday, May 2, at Montebello Park and help celebrate the 150th anniversary of St. Catharines being incorporated as a City. It was May 1, 1876 when the growth of the community – much of which was a catalyst of the work on the third Welland Canal just five years earlier – saw it attain City status after more than 30 years of being incorporated as a town.

Saturday’s event will take place from noon to 4 p.m., with official greetings, a ceremonial cake celebration and a welcome from Mayor Mat Siscoe at 1 p.m. The afternoon will feature a wide range of activities aimed at families, with all activities and food available free to those who attend. Continue reading →