Niagara At Large

Supports Redevelopment Of “Sky Wheel” Up On Lands Next To Clifton Hill Instead

A News Release from the Niagara Parks Commission in Niagara Falls, Ontario

Posted September 15th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

More than 700 citizens attend a town hall meeting this past July to express their concern over plans to erect an amusement park-style ride on greenspace near the Horseshoe Falls in Niagara Falls, Ontaro

A Brief Foreword Note from Doug Draper at Niagara At Large – First, let me simply say Thank God that the Niagara Parks Commission, an agency created over a century ago to protect and preserve the natural grounds around the Falls (not to junk these lands up with amusement park rides), and Ontario’s Ford government finally came to their senses and ditched plans for a gargantuan ferris wheel on the beautiful old Queen Victory Park lands near the Horseshoe Falls.

What I find disappointing in reading the Niagara Parks note is 1) there is no real acknowledgment in the role Ontario’s Ford government played in pushing plans for this ride and 2) there was no recognition of the role countless numbers of citizens played in reaching out the Niagara Parks and the provincial government with their concerns about building anything that looked like a carnival ride in such a scenic, worlk-renown spot.

Standing at the podium at left, Niagara Falls NDP MPP Wayne Gates at the town hall meeting he hosted last July, expressing his opposition to building a pian ferris wheel ride on world-renown green lands next to the Horseshoe Falls

At one point in early July, more than 700 Niagara area citizens filled a banquet hall at Club Italia in Niagara Falls for a town hall meeting hosted by Niagara Falls MPP Wayne Gates to express a resounding “NO’ to this ferris wheel plan and it is hard for this reporter to believe that there wasn’t at least one Niagara Parks representative at the meeting, monitoring what was being said. 

At the very least, Niagara Parks must have been aware of it from stories in area newspapers and television news programs in the Greater Toronto Area. 

It would have been good of Niagara Parks in its news release to at least give members of the public some credit for caring enough to express their concerns and to say something like; ‘Thank you to the public for reaching out on this matter. We took your views into serious consideration before making a final decision on this project.

I find that very few, if any government bodies, are willing to make any kind of a statement like that which may be one of the reasons why members of the public hold government in such low regard.

Now here is the News Release from the Niagara Parks Commission – 

The Niagara Parks Commission has cancelled its Request for Proposals (RFP) process for a new observation wheel in Queen Victoria Park following a significant new private sector commitment to redevelop the existing Niagara SkyWheel (near Clifton Hill).Following the release of the RFP, Niagara Parks received a Letter of Intent from Harry Oakes, President and CEO of HOCO Entertainment, outlining plans for a major redevelopment of the Niagara SkyWheel, which has operated for more than 20 years and has established itself as a cornerstone of the Niagara Falls visitor experience.

The Sky Wheel overlooking the Falls near Clifton Hill. Controversial plans for a similar giant ferris wheel ride on  Queen Victoria Park lands closer to Falls are now dead.

Since then, Mr. Oakes and HOCO Entertainment have developed a detailed business case for the proposed redevelopment and demonstrated that financing is in place to advance the project. The redevelopment will see the existing Niagara SkyWheel replaced with a new 250-foot Ferris wheel, making it the tallest Ferris wheel in Canada, along with improvements to the surrounding Clifton Hill plaza.

With the proposed SkyWheel redevelopment now supported by a business case and in the advanced planning stage, Niagara Parks has determined that there is a viable alternative to proceeding with a new observation wheel in Queen Victoria Park. As a result, the Commission has cancelled the RFP process.

Issued on December 15, 2025, the RFP for a new observation wheel in Queen Victoria Park was launched in alignment with the province’s Destination Niagara Strategy, which aims to double the number of visitors, extend length of stays, raise Niagara’s global profile and attract new private sector investment to the region. Continue reading →

– Historic Royal George Theatre Name To Be preserved –

“This extraordinary investment through the Build Communities Strong Fund will help create a new Royal George Theatre that honours the site’s wonderful and varied history while setting a new standard for accessibility and environmental sustainability. More than a theatre, the new Royal George will be a place where communities come together to connect, create and be inspired.”    – Tim Jennings, Executive Director/CEO, Shaw Festival.

A News Release from The Shaw Festival in Niagara, Ontaro

Posted September 14^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

The Royal George Theatre, photo courtesy of The Shaw Festival

Niagara-on-the-Lake – The Shaw Festival today welcomed a contribution of up to $25 million from the Government of Canada to help rebuild the Royal George Theatre in Niagara-on-the-Lake, creating a more accessible and environmentally sustainable home for one of Canada’s most beloved cultural institutions.

Announced today by Chris Bittle, Member of Parliament for St. Catharines, the federal contribution is being made through the Direct Delivery stream of the Build Communities Strong Fund. The investment represents a significant commitment to cultural infrastructure that supports economic growth, creates jobs and strengthens communities. Continue reading →

You Are Invited To from the Niagara District Council of Women (See Details on Poster Below)

Posted September 14^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

In these ever-changing local  political times, it’s even more important for the  women of Niagara to step forward in the upcoming  municipal elections, where  the Premier gives Mayors  “strong” powers  and  appoints an unelected  Regional Niagara  Chair. Continue reading →

 “This year’s first human case of West Nile Virus in Niagara is an important signal that the virus is actively circulating.”                    – Dr. Hamidah Meghani, Niagara Region Associate Medical Officer of Health.

News from Niagara Region’s Public Health Department

Posted September 14^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large 

Niagara, Ontario – Niagara Region Public Health has reported its first laboratory-confirmed human case of West Nile virus infection in 2026. 

The case was confirmed in St. Catharines, but all Niagara residents and visitors are encouraged to take steps to protect themselves and their families against mosquito bites and West Nile virus. 

While most people infected with West Nile virus do not experience symptoms, 20 per cent of people will experience flu-like symptoms and fatigue if infected with the virus. Continue reading →

“As parents struggle to navigate purchasing decisions during an affordability crisis, we shouldn’t also have to worry about whether kids’ products and toys contain hidden toxics.”

A News Release from Environmental Defence Canada

Posted September 14^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

A Statement from Environmental Defence Canada’s Senior Program Manager Cassie Barker

Toronto, Ontario – Choosing to support Canadian-owned businesses shouldn’t mean exposing kids and families to toxic chemicals.

But, while U.S.-based Dollar Tree has committed to restricting toxic chemicals in products on Canadian shelves, Canada-based Dollarama has made no such commitment. This glaring gap in voluntary action highlights the need for federal intervention. Continue reading →

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

Posted September 13^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

One of my favourite old books by Gloria Steinhem

Since the sad passing of feminist icon and all-round human rights activist Gloria Steinem this past September 2^nd, at age 92, I have been rereading passages from books she has written that I have had sitting on my shelves for many years.

In them, I have come across many quotable quotes by her, including the following one about truth that is something that is in shorter and shorter supply in the world we are living in today.

Here are those words about truth that you can read in the image below and share with others for their contemplation too –

R.I.P. Gloria. Every time we get depressed at what is going on around us, we should remind ourselves that there are people like this in this world and we all have the opportunity, even in a small way,  to carry on with their work on behalf of making our communities better places to live in.

• Doug Draper, Niagara At Large

Watch an Interview and short bio pic featuring Gloria Steinman, produced by the New York Times by clicking on the screen immedately below –

 A related tribute to Gloria Steinmen was posted earlier this September on Niagara At Large . You can read it by clicking on – https://niagaraatlarge.com/2026/09/03/one-of-the-great-champions-for-peace-justice-and-human-equality-gloria-steinem-has-died-at-age-92/

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

Posted by Doug Draper this September 12^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

For the sake of our Canada, click on the screen immediately below and crank it up –

And don’t forget it. By standng together and supporting each other and the local farmers and other businesses in our communities, we will survive!

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

“Never mistake our generosity for weakness. … never mistake our tolerance for lack of determination. And never, never mistake our kindness for softness.”                – Jean Chretien

Posted September 11^th, 2026 by Doug Draper on Niagara At Large on 25^th Anniversary of 9/11 attacks

Former Canadian Prime Minister Jean Chretien

If you missed it, this address former Canadian Prime Minister Jean Chretien delivered in Gander, Newfoundland this September 11^th.  2026 at a 25^th anniversary commemoration of the 9/11 terrorist attacks it is well worth listening too.

And let’s hope Trump and his cronies either have or will get to hear it too.

To hear and watch the former Prime Minister deliver his address, 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!

News from the Town of Fort Erie in Niagara, Ontaro

Posted September 11^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Town of Fort Erie Mayor Wayne Redekop

FORT ERIE, ON – The Town of Fort Erie honoured the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks with a commemorative service at Mather Arch.

Members of the community, local dignitaries, first responders and representatives from both sides of the border gathered to remember and honour the nearly 3,000 people who lost their lives that day.

“Twenty-five years later, we continue to remember the lives lost, the families forever changed and the courage shown in the face of an unimaginable tragedy. Mather Arch stands as a symbol of the enduring friendship between Canada and the United States. Gathering here, within sight of the Peace Bridge, is a meaningful way to show that Fort Erie continues to stand with our American neighbours in remembrance and support.” – Fort Erie Mayor Wayne Redekop Continue reading →

From the Office of Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney

Posted September 9^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Prime Minister Mark Carney is a stark contrast to the idiocy of Donald Trump

A Brief Foreword by Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper – One of the many things that makes me prouder and prouder to be a Canadian in these turbulent times is how much class, strength and intelligence our Prime Minister, Mark Carney, has continued to show in the face of the totally uncalled for conduct being exhibited by U.S. President Donald Trump and his administration and supporters.

The following statement that Prime Minister Carney has released on 9/11 is a glowing example of that and Americans ought to take heed from it that we are not their enemy.

A Statement by Prime Minister Mark Carney to mark 9/11 and the National Day of Service

Ottawa, Ontario – “Twenty-five years ago, on a clear September morning, an ordinary day became one  of history’s darkest. Continue reading →

“By planting these nine trees along our 9/11 Memorial Trail and throughout the park, we honour the precious Canadian lives taken that day, embrace the resilience of the survivors, and salute the unwavering bravery of the first responders. May these branches offer shade for reflection and a lasting symbol of hope for future generations.”                                                                               – Mat Siscoe, Mayor of St. Catharines, Ontaro

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

Posted September 11^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

General Baxter Hunt, U.S. Consul General in Toronto, speaking at the commemoration event with from left to right, St. Catharines MP Chris Bittle, St. Catharines Mayor Mat Siscoe and St. Catharines MPP Jennie Stevens joining him. photo courtesy of the City of St. Catharines

Nine new trees planted on 9/11 Memorial Trail and park in St. Catharines;species significant to location of attacks, National September 11 Memorial & Museum in New York City.

St. Catharines Mayor Mat Siscoe, U.S. Consul General Baxter Hunt, St. Catharines MP Chris Bittle and St. Catharines MPP Jennie Stevens (this past Thursday, September 10th, 2026)  remembered and honoured the 24 Canadians killed and three U.S. citizens with family in Canada in the 9/11 attacks, survivors, and first responders with nine new trees planted on the 9/11 Memorial Trail and throughout the rest of the park in St. Catharines during a 25th Anniversary Commemoration event. Continue reading →

Posted by Doug Draper on Niagara At Large, on September 11^th, 2026, the 25^th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks

The following song, written and performed by Bruce Springsteen, was inspired by the sight of a man in a suit and carrying a brief case, covered in ash as he staggered away from the site where the Twin Towers in New York City stood.

To hear the song, called Nothing Man, and view heart-wrenchng  images from that day, click on the screen immediately below –

R.I.P. To All Those Who Lost Their Lives On That Horrific Day

• Doug Draper, Niagara At Large

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

Appointment Comes At A Time When Ontario Farmers Are Facing Trump’s Trade War and More Frequent Threats From Severe Weather 

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

Posted September 10^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Thaniks to Ontario Premier Doug Ford, Niagara West MPP Sam Oosterhoff is now the province’s Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness Minister.

So just when we need someone who can stand up to Trump’s threats to our farmers in Ontario and who can work to build a build a food-growing system in this province that serves us all, even as our food-growing lands face more and more severe weather, Premier Doug Ford has picked Niagara West MPP Sam Oosterhoff to be our province’s new Agriculture Minister.

The home-schooled, 29-year-old Oosterhoff’s appointment to this portfolio  comes at a time when farmers are struggling with the costs of dealing with severe weather that has been doing countless millions of dollars of dollars of damage to orchards, vineyards and other crops in and around the Niagara region alone. Continue reading →

A Commentary by Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper

Posted September 11^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

When a second commercial jet went crashing into the Twin Towers in New York City, it was instantly clear to everyone watching that these were terrorist attacks.

Twenty-five years after what the world has simply come to know as 9/11, I still remember looking up at a screen at local diner on that morning of September 11^th in 2001 and watching the Twin Towers in Manhattan being attacked and pancaking down in clouds of smoke and fire in real time.

Then there was generosity of people in communities across Niagara and our country when it came to helping our American neighbours through this horror.

Immediately after those terrorist attacks, when the U.S. government closed its airspace to any and all incoming commercial aircraft for fear that more jets, like the ones that were slammed into the Twin Towers and the Pentagon outside of Washington, D.C., might be used as weapons, Canada took a chance and allowed commercial jets to land here. Continue reading →

“As a Council, we recognize the importance of preserving and respecting the cultural heritage that exists within our community. Echoes of the Ancestors offers an insightful look at Fort Erie’s Indigenous history and the shared responsibility we have to protect sacred sites and honour the stories connected to them.” – Fort Erie Mayor Wayne Redekop

A News Release from the Town of Fort Erie in Niagara, Ontaro

Posted September 9^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

FORT ERIE, ON  – Echoes of the Ancestors is a new three-part documentary series produced by Michael Summers and Mitch Baird of the McLean Consulting Group, scheduled to launch September 10 on Bell Fibe TV1.

The series explores the cultural and historical significance of Indigenous burial grounds and archaeological sites in the Fort Erie region, including the Orchid and Surma ossuary sites and the area surrounding the Peace Bridge.

Through archaeological research, community perspectives, and conversations with Indigenous knowledge holders and heritage professionals, the documentary connects the region’s ancient Indigenous presence with questions that remain urgent today. Continue reading →

“Ontario lost 18,000 jobs in August, and today’s numbers show that Ontario is facing a jobs crisis at exactly the moment families need economic security the most.”

News from Ontario’s Official Opposition NDP Party

Posted September 9^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

QUEEN’S PARK — Ontario NDP Shadow Minister for Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade Catherine Fife (Waterloo); and Shadow Minister for Finance and Treasury Board Jessica Bell (University—Rosedale) are calling on the Ford government to create a plan to protect Ontarian jobs, as August saw 18,000 jobs lost in Ontario and the unemployment rate climbed to 6.9 per cent.

“Ontario’s unemployment rate has climbed to 6.9 per cent,” said Fife. “These numbers show that Doug Ford’s economic plan is not delivering for working people. Blaming global uncertainty isn’t a strategy to protect Ontarian jobs. Continue reading →

“A clear sign of an economy that isn’t working for everyone is one where the heaviest burden falls on people who work for a living, while the ultra-rich are able to skirt their responsibilities. And that’s the reality in Canada today.”

A Labour Day Message from Canadians for Tax Fairness

Posted September 7^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

On Labour Day , we reflect on, celebrate, and honour the achievements of working people in Canada.

At Canadians for Tax Fairness (C4TF), we stand in solidarity with workers across the labour movement, and we’re deeply grateful for the many years of support and partnership from Canadian unions. In fact, C4TF would not exist today without the support of our allies in the labour movement from day one.

But here’s the thing: the kind of Canada we aspire to build—a country where everyone can afford a home, put food on the table, and thrive, with access to the public services we all depend on, from healthcare and education to transit and green infrastructure—is rapidly being stripped away. Continue reading →

Posted September 7^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

A Brief Foreword by Doug Draper – On this Labour Day, I wish to thank everyone out there who has continued to support Niagara At Large through their visits to this independent online news and commentary site and, once again, I ask you to encourage as many people as you know to do the same. All the Best to you and your loved ones on this Labour Day, 2026 and let’s dedicated ourselves to working together as Canadians to support each other and to protect and preserve the values and freedoms that define our country. And Buy Canadian every chance you get.

“In the face of unjustified and unprovoked tariffs from the United States, we are stepping up to protect our workers and businesses – helping them retool, retrain, diversify, and build.”                       – Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada

A Statement by Canada’sPrime Minister Mark Carney on Labour Day.

“On Labour Day, we honour the workers who have built our country and celebrate the proud history of organised labour in Canada. Continue reading →

‘The annual costs of flood damage to homes and buildings across Canada could increase three to five times over the coming decades.’ – from Environment Canada’s latest State of the Climate report

From Environmental Defence Canada, a country-wide citizens advocacy group for environmental protection

Posted September 4^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

A Statement from Julia Levin, Associate Director, National Climate, Environmental Defence

Posted September 4th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Ottawa – Canada’s latest state of the climate report is a stark warning of what Canadians will face if governments fail to tackle the climate crisis with the urgency it requires.

Given that Prime Minister (Mark) Carney’s government has dismantled much of Canada’s climate progress, it is of little surprise that the government tried to bury its own report by quietly releasing it right before a long weekend.

This report should be a call to action. What the future looks like for our children depends on the policy choices being made today. The worst impacts of climate change are far from inevitable. Continue reading →

“Our recovery is not over. Many residents are still dealing with significant damage to their homes and the difficult work that comes with recovering from a flood. Ending the State of Emergency is an important milestone, but we will continue to support our community, work with our partners and advocate for the resources St. Catharines needs to recover and become more resilient.”                                                                                           – Mat Siscoe, Mayor of City of St. Catharines

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

Posted September 4^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

St. Catharines Mayor Mat Siscoe has ended the State of Emergency declared in response to the significant flooding that impacted St. Catharines following extraordinary rainfall in late July and early August.

Ending the State of Emergency does not mean flood recovery is over. Residents continue to deal with damage to their homes, cleanup, insurance claims and the impacts of the flooding.

The City also continues to assess and repair damage to municipal infrastructure, support affected residents and advocate for provincial and federal recovery funding.

The decision to terminate the State of Emergency under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act was made as immediate emergency conditions have stabilized and the City continues its transition from emergency response to ongoing recovery. Continue reading →

“The end of the emergency declaration marks an important transition, while recognizing that many residents are still facing recovery. Our focus remains on supporting those who have been affected and continuing to advocate for the resources and assistance Lincoln needs.”                                                                        – Town Of Lincoln Mayor Sandra Easton

News from the Town of Lincoln in Niagara, Ontario

Posted September 4^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Lincoln, ON –  The Town of Lincoln has formally terminated the State of Emergency declared in response to the significant flooding that affected the community in August.

The decision reflects the Town’s transition from the immediate emergency response phase to ongoing recovery efforts. While the State of Emergency has ended, the Town recognizes that recovery will take time and significant work remains to support residents, businesses and the broader community.

The State of Emergency was declared on August 3 under the /Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act/ following an extraordinary rainfall event that overwhelmed roads, stormwater infrastructure, homes, businesses and municipal services.

The impacts of the storm were further compounded by widespread power outages, which created additional challenges for residents, businesses and municipal infrastructure. Continue reading →

Investments in Emergency Care Across the Province Have Reduced Ambulance Offload Times by Sixty-Eight Percent in the Past Year

News Release from the Constituency Office of Niagara West Ford Government MPP Sam Oosterhoff 

Posted September 4^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large 

THOROLD – The Ontario government is investing $37,248,501 in Niagara to connect more people to emergency care faster and increase the availability of paramedics and ambulances in the community. 

Ontario is increasing land ambulance funding for the Regional Municipality of Niagara by eleven percent, bringing the province’s total investment in the region to $35,395,305 this year.  

In addition, to further reduce delays paramedics encounter when arriving at hospitals to transfer patients, Ontario is providing the region with $1,853,196 through the Dedicated Offload Nurses Program to hire nurses and other eligible health professionals dedicated to offloading ambulance patients in hospital emergency departments.  Continue reading →

“A feminist is anyone who recognizes the equality and full humanity of women and men.”                                                              ― Gloria Steinem

“When humans are ranked instead of linked, everyone loses.”      ― Gloria Steinem, from her 2015 book ‘My Life On The Road’

A Few Words of Tribute by Doug Draper

Posted September 3^rd, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Activist, humanitarian Glorie Steinem

After a restless night of worry over the possibility of more flooding rain swamping the basement of my family’s home in Niagara (which did not happen this time, Thank God), I didn’t need to wake up this morning of September 3^rd to the “Breaking News” that Gloria Steinem died.

In the mid- to late-1960s, when I was still just a kid growing interested in the civil rights, anti-war and all of the other movements bursting to the forefront back then, there she was – a young, courageous, charismatic woman of deep intellect –drawing me in to the struggle for equal rights and opportunities for women too.

As a journalist, among other things, and her own excellent work as a freelancer reporting on a host of political and social issues for prominent newspapers and magazines, she played a significant role in making it possible for other women to find employment in a newsroom writing about more than food recipes, the latest fashions in clothing and the like. Continue reading →

“While the NPCA does not anticipate major flooding along larger watercourses, flash flooding along small and urbanized watercourses, rapid increase in water levels and localized flooding in low-lying or poorly drained areas may occur.”

An Advisory to All from the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority

Posted September 2^nd, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – The Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) is advising the public and local municipalities of the potential for flooding within its jurisdiction in the afternoon/evening of Wednesday September 2nd into the morning of September 3rd, 2026.

This includes the Niagara Peninsula, the southeastern portion of the City of Hamilton, and the eastern portion of Haldimand County. Continue reading →

“We’ve been fighting for two-way, all-day GO Service to Niagara Falls since 2014, so there’s no question we’re frustrated to see daily service moving in the wrong direction.”                                    – Niagara Falls NDP MPP Wayne Gates

A News Release from Niagara, Ontario NDP MPPs Jennie Stevens (St. Catharines Riding) and Wayne Gates (Niagara Falls Riding)

Posted September 2^nd, 2026 on Niagara At Large

NIAGARA– Ontario NDP MPPs Jennie Stevens (St. Catharines) and Wayne Gates (Niagara Falls) blasted Metrolinx for cutting three of five GO Trains to and from Niagara, and the Ford government for its continual refusal to hold them accountable.

“After almost a decade of calling on this government to increase service, we’re now taking 10 steps backwards,” said Stevens.

“Niagara residents can’t be getting into Union Station for 9:00 a.m. on the direct train from St. Catharines, so they end up driving to Burlington to catch an earlier train that gets them into the city in time for work or school. This defeats the purpose of using public transportation and adds to roadway congestion.” Continue reading →

“Recognition like this affirms the value of continually looking for smarter ways to operate our (long-term care) homes and support the people who live in them.”                                                    – Paolo Varias, Niagara Region’s Director of Seniors Services.

A News Release from Niagara’s Regional Government

Posted September 2^nd, 2026 on Niagara At Large

At the Regional Council meeting on Aug. 27, Niagara Region received the Ontario Water Works Association’s 2026 Water and Energy Efficiency Award of Excellence. This honour recognizes organizations that demonstrate innovation, measurable impact and leadership in advancing water and energy efficiency across Ontario.

“This award is a positive reflection of Niagara Region’s commitment to responsible, forward-looking municipal leadership. It aligns with Council’s priorities by demonstrating how thoughtful investments can reduce resource use, improve operational efficiency and build more sustainable Regional facilities for the future,” said Acting Regional Chair Tom Insinna. Continue reading →

“On the face of it, the whole renaming is ridiculous, but it’s what it reflects that’s important: that Donald Trump is not interested in a good trade deal for the United States or Canada. He’s interested in dominating Canada.” – Blayne Haggart, political science professor, Brock University

News from Brock University in St. Catharines, Ontario

Posted September 2^nd, 2026 on Niagara At Large

U.S. President Donald Trump’s renaming of Lake Ontario is the latest manoeuvre in his ongoing campaign to undermine Canada’s sovereignty, say experts from Brock University’s Department of Political Science.

In the days following the breakdown of U.S.-Canada trade negotiations, Trump signed an executive order to change the lake’s more-than-400-year-old name to Lake America, despite its longstanding Indigenous roots.

Professor Blayne Haggart says Trump’s latest escalation emphasizes why Prime Minister Mark Carney was right to walk away from the negotiating table. Continue reading →

From Environment Canada

Posted September 1^st, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Today (Monday, September 1^st) through Wednesday, possibly lasting into Thursday.

Take action to protect yourself and others – extreme heat can affect everyone’s health. Determine if you or others around you are at greater risk of heat illness. Check on older adults, those living alone and other at-risk people in-person or on the phone multiple times a day.

Watch for the early signs of heat exhaustion in yourself and others. Signs may include headache, nausea, dizziness, thirst, dark urine and intense fatigue. Stop your activity and drink water. Continue reading →

A September song for you, shared by Doug Draper

Posted September 1st, 2026 on Niagara At Large

First it was the toxic air from smoke drifting in from wildfires in northern Ontario. Then came the severe winds and flooding rains, among the worst on record, that toppled trees, ravaged homes, businesses and farm lands in Niagara’s north end.

And yet in the middle of all of this, I had a guy working on the damage done to the basement of my home who insisted that climate change is a hoax.

As much as I love summer, this has been a pretty brutal one for way too many of us – so much so that even I am looking forward to this coming September 22nd when we leave the summer of 2026 behind.

So how about listening to one of the most uplifting September songs I know with a hope that the worst of the severe weather is behind us, at least for a little while.

The song is called September by the super group Earth, Wind & Fire and you can hear it by clicking on the screen below. Crank up the volume too –

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!

Offshore wind in Lake Ontario can keep our power out of American hands

A Message from the Ontario Clean Air Alliance, a citizens group advocating for greener renewable energy

Posted September 1st, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Our lake, our power

Lake America. How annoying is that?

But it’s going to take more than a sign to respond effectively to this provocation from Donald Trump. In fact, we should turn this insult into a huge opportunity to strengthen our energy sovereignty.

Instead of spending billions of dollars on American designed nuclear reactors, as Doug Ford is currently planning to do, let’s send an effective message by building offshore wind power on our side of the Great Lakes. Continue reading →

News from Municipal World Magazine, a Canada-wide publication focusing on municipal

Posted September 1^st, 2026 on Niagara At Large

What does it take to win 16 consecutive elections and become the longest-serving municipal councillor in Canada?

For nearly five decades, Joseph Kushner has been prominent in the municipal politics of St. Catharines, securing victory in every election since 1976, most often topping the polls. This book takes readers on a fascinating journey through his unprecedented career, offering rare insights into what it truly takes to succeed in politics. Specifically:

 how he defeated two high-profile incumbents in his very first election, despite little community experience  the strategies he developed over the years to keep winning lessons aspiring politicians and current councillors can learn from his success. Continue reading →

“Long before President Trump, this lake was called Lake Ontario. Long after President Trump is gone, it will still be called Lake Ontario.” – Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario.

A Brief News Commentary by Doug Draper

Posted August 31st, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Ontario Premier Doug Ford may not be too far behind U.S. President Donald Trump when it comes to a slide in public popularity, but one thing is for sure.

Trump is the best thing Ford has had in rallying a majority of the province’s people behind him each and every time he punches back at the orange-face bully’s threats and insults.

So it should be of no surprise to anyone who has been paying attention to see Ford jump at the chance to respond to Trump’s recent and ridiculous ‘executive order’ to change the name of Lake Ontario to ‘Lake Ontario’ by erecting big signs along the Canadian shores of the lake, including a couple in Niagara, that read; “Lake Ontario. Now and Always.” Continue reading →

Our popular literary series returns September 10th!

News from the Niagara Parks Commission in Niagara, Ontario

Posted August 31st, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Get ready for thrilling stories that’ll keep you turning pages late into the night.

This four-part speaker series is back for its 10th anniversary, with four new tales of determination and survival at all costs.

Join us inside the chapel of the Laura Secord Homestead for this exceptional in-person series. Tickets are $15 per night or $50 for all four evenings. Continue reading →

“The climate crisis isn’t a problem for a future generation. We’re living with its consequences right now.”

A Message from the Green Party of Ontario

Posted August 28th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Ontario has suffered through 750 wildfires so far this year. That’s up from 650 last year and 480 in 2024.

Thousands of people have been forced to evacuate. Smoke and poor air quality have affected people far beyond the fire zones. And fire rangers and first responders are working hard to keep people safe.

Another difficult wildfire season is reminding us just how much is at stake. Continue reading →

“Marineland’s financial interest in shipping the animals off-site so it can pursue its multi-million dollar real estate deal should not in any way factor into the government’s decision to grant export permits.”                                                                                           – Kaitlyn Mitchell, director of legal advocacy at Animal Justice

A News Release from Animal Justice, a Canadian citizens’ advocacy group for protecting animals

Posted August 29th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

TORONTO—Animal Justice is calling on federal Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson to immediately investigate the death of Peekachu, a 23-year-old beluga whale who died at Shedd Aquarium in Chicago less than two weeks after being exported from Marineland, and to halt further beluga transports until the investigation is complete and the public can be sure the remaining whales are healthy enough for transport.

Peekachu arrived in Chicago on Aug. 13 and was found to be dehydrated before her sudden death on Tuesday (August 18). Her tragic death comes amid an unprecedented effort to relocate dozens of belugas from Marineland, the notorious Niagra Falls roadside zoo and aquarium, to facilities across the U.S. and Spain. Six belugas remain at Marineland awaiting transport. Continue reading →

Saturday, August 29^th at 11 A.M Unti Noon In Front Of The Main Gateway To The Pen Centre on Glendale Avenue and Tremont Drive in St. Catharines

Posted August 28^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Some of the hudreds Niagara residents attendig a ‘Fight Ford’ rally in front of the Pen Centre in St. Catharines this past March

Every month since this past winter, hundred of residents from across Niagara have gathered at these rallies to demonstrate their concerns over Ford government policies on a host of issues, from education, health care and environmental protection to the assault on democracy at the municipal government level.

Similar rallies are being held on the same day in regions across the province. This August 29^th, you can make a sign expressing your concerns and be part of the one in St. Catharines/Niagara.

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!

“Homelessness and housing insecurity are on the rise everywhere. As a community, we want our strategies, funding, and outcomes (to address the homeless issue) to be driven by real evidence and coordinated action.”                                                          – Wayne Redekop, Mayor of Fort Erie

A News Release from the Town of Fort Erie

Posted August 28^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Town of Fort Erie Mayor Wayne Redekop

FORT ERIE, ON – Mayor Wayne Redekop hosted the Mayor’s Community Roundtable on Homelessness on Monday, August 24, 2026, at the Leisureplex Banquet Hall, bringing together about 50 invitees from among municipal leadership, service providers, and community partners to discuss homelessness and housing insecurity in Fort Erie.

The roundtable builds on six months of research led by Dr. Joanne Heritz of Brock University’s Niagara Community Observatory, funded by the Niagara Community Foundation and conducted in partnership with CASA, a local transitional shelter for women and children experiencing housing insecurity. 

This research centres the lived expertise of Fort Erie community members who have experienced homelessness and housing insecurity firsthand. Continue reading →

“Neighbours are stepping up for one another, but charity cannot replace the province’s responsibility. Doug Ford needs to stop drawing arbitrary lines and make sure every Ontarian affected by these floods gets the support they need.”                                         – Ontario Official Opposition and NDP Leader Marit Stiles

A Message  from Ontario’s Official Oppositon NDP Party

Posted August 28^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles

QUEEN’S PARK– Ontario NDP and Official Opposition Leader Marit Stiles, along with NDP MPPs Jennie Stevens (St. Catharines) and Chandra Pasma (Ottawa West–Nepean) and Wayne Gates (Niagara Falls) have called for the immediate expansion of the Disaster Recovery Assistance for Ontario (DRAO) to support residents, small businesses, farms and not-for-profit organizations impacted by the flooding in Ottawa, St. Catharines, the Niagara region and greater Sudbury region.

“Families and businesses impacted by flooding should not have to fight the government to get help,” said Stiles. Continue reading →

A Brief Commentary by Doug Draper

Posted April 27^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

If Americans are looking for one more reason to keep Canadians from visiting their country or from ever trading products with them again, they have got it!

This August 27^th, 2026, Donald Trump took out time from doing nothing about the economic issues plaguing his own people and signed an ‘Executive Order’, renaming Lake Ontario “Lake America,” or to put it in a more totalitarian or facist way, ‘Lake AMERIKA’.  Continue reading →

“We know that uncertainty is difficult for residents who are already dealing with the impacts of flooding. While the final decision is not within the Town’s control, we remain committed to sharing information openly and helping residents understand what supports may be available as soon as we receive further direction from the Province.”

A News Release from the Town of Lincoln in Niagara, Ontario

Posted August 27th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Lincoln, ON – The Town of Lincoln is formally requesting that the Province of Ontario consider activating the Disaster Recovery Assistance for Ontarians (DRAO) program following the recent flooding events that affected the community.

Since July 31, the Town has been collecting detailed information about the impacts experienced across Lincoln, including the areas affected, the timing and severity of flooding, and the ways residents, businesses and properties have been impacted. Continue reading →

“If you see someone without a smile today, give ’em yours.” – Dolly Parton

Another Brief Commentary on Dolly Parton by Doug Draper

Posted August 26^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Dolly Parton and the program she created to encourage children across the U.S. and Canada to read.

After the past day or so since the world received the breaking news that singer/songwriter and philanthropist Dolly Parton died, so much other news has come out about her rise from abject poverty and her humility, kindness and generosity.

Having grown up in deeply impoverished conditions, she rose up to become one of the most successful recording artists of all time and she invested so much of her time and wealth helping others, most famously with her “Imagination Library” program that circulated a total of more than 330 million free books to children across the United States and Canada to encourage them to read. Continue reading →

A Brief Tribute by Doug Draper

Posted August 25^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Dolly Parton, front and centre, with friends and fellow singers Emmylou Harris to her left and Linda Rondstadt to her right. Together they recorded a few very warmly recieved albums.

I am no big fan of country music, but oh how sorry I was to hear the news that this country singer/songwriter has gone.

I am talking about Dolly Parton, who has just passed away at age 80 and who was such a presence in our collective lives over the past 50 or more years for her music, her infectious personality  and for her dedication to human rights and philanthropy. Continue reading →

“We all want more homes. We all want Niagara to grow. But growth requires roads, water, sewers, transit and other services,” said Bateman. Those things still have to be paid for. If the Province reduces what developers pay, it cannot simply leave Niagara residents to make up the difference.”                                               – Haley Bateman, a St. Catharines representative sitting on Niagara Regional Council

A News Release from Haley Bateman, St. Catharines Regional Councillor and a long-time community activist

Posted August 25^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Haley Bateman, a Niagara Regional Councillor living in St. Catharines, Ontario

NIAGARA REGION –  Niagara Regional Councillor Haley Bateman says the proposed development charge reduction program is not the New Deal council has asked for, one that recognizes the real cost of growth and stops shifting more costs onto local residents.

Bateman says that a long-term, fair and predictable funding relationship between municipalities and the Province is needed to make budgets manageable.

Niagara continues to face growing demands for public health, social services, waste management, roads, water and sewer systems, transit and other essential services. Municipalities are being asked to do more with less provincial support. Continue reading →

News from the citizen advocacy group Canadians for Tax Fairness

Posted August 25^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

We all knew this was happening. But that makes it no less infuriating to see it in black and white.

As wildfires rage across the country and thousands are forced to evacuate, Canada’s Big Four oil companies just reported]$13.3 billion in profits in three months — more than double what they made during the same period last year.

But it doesn’t stop there. We dug deeper into their latest disclosures to find out what Big Oil is using these profits for — and it’s déjà vu all over again. Continue reading →

Read The Plea To Authorities On The Side Of The Superbus & Do What You Can To Help Your Fellow Citizens Demand Action

A Photo of a Message just added late this August, 2026 on a Superbus from The Coalition for a Better St. Catharines

Posted August 24^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

A Commentary by Doug Draper, a former environment reporter with the St. Catharines Standard and the publisher of Niagara At Large

It is pretty bad and it is unprecedented for that matter, when a citizens group in St. Catharines, Niagara has to go so far as to pay for a giant message to be placed  on the sides of a superbus that wheels around the city, pleading with government authorities and other responsible bodies to clean up poisons, including PCBs, asbestos and heavy metals, on a former General Motors site next to a residential neighbourhood. Continue reading →

A Statement by Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney on Ukrainian Independence Day

Posted August 24^th on Niagara At Large

Ottawa, Ontario – “Thirty-five years ago today, Ukraine’s Parliament proclaimed the country’s independence. That historic decision marked the beginning of a new chapter for Ukraine – one defined by freedom, democracy, and self-determination.

Canada was the first Western nation to recognise Ukraine’s independence, deepening a friendship that has grown into an enduring bond between our nations.

That bond is strengthened by the more than 1.4 million Canadians of Ukrainian descent. Continue reading →

“These times call for a strong and decisive response. Doug Ford and his government must take these steps to defend Ontario in the face of Donald Trump’s belligerent attacks on our workers and our economy.” Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles

News from the Office of Ontario’s Official Opposition Leader Marit Stiles

Posted August 24^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Ontario NDP Leader Marit Stiles

QUEEN’S PARK — Marit Stiles, Leader of the Official Opposition Ontario NDP, has written to Premier Doug Ford  calling for urgent action to safeguard Ontario from the impacts of American tariffs.

“Ontario is looking for its leaders to step up for them,” said Stiles. “To protect their livelihoods and their families. We must stand strong and united from coast to coast to coast.

“Today, I’ve asked Doug Ford to immediately recall the legislature so that we can pass an emergency relief bill to support Ontario workers in tariff-exposed sectors and businesses. It is our duty as elected officials to immediately get to work in the fight against Donald Trump’s inexcusable and dangerous tariffs.” Continue reading →

City staff will share information about the City’s response and recovery since St. Catharines experienced three 100-year rain storms between July 21 and August 2 that resulted in more than 300 mm of heavy rainfall.

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

Posted August 24th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

The City of St. Catharines will host a Telephone Town Hall on Tuesday, Aug. 25, to provide residents with updates on the City’s ongoing flood recovery and response efforts and answer questions from the community.

City officials will take part in the telephone town hall from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. A telephone town hall operates similarly to a radio call-in show. Rather than residents calling in, the City will call households across St. Catharines and invite them to participate in the live conversation.

City staff will share information about the City’s response and recovery since St. Catharines experienced three 100-year rain storms between July 21 and August 2 that resulted in more than 300 mm of heavy rainfall. Continue reading →

Posted August 22^nd, 2026 on Niagara At Large with some commentary by NAL reporter/publisher Doug Draper 

“Last spring I warned that America is trying to break us so that it can own us, and I promise that that will never ever happen. And we are keeping that promise. Canada is becoming stronger and less dependent on America. We are already giving ourselves more than they can take away. And we are just getting started.” –  Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada

For the record, here is a video of the full address Prime Minister Mark Carney delivered to Canadians earlier this August 22^nd, 2026 on the break down in trade talks with the U.S. Trump administration.

If you missed it and would like to watch it –and I urge you to watch it because what is happening here will continue to have a significant impact on the lives of all of us and the communities we live in – click on the screen immediately below –

Prime Minister Carney said he will, in the days ahead, be unveiling the retaliatory measures Canada is going to take against Trump’s efforts to break Canada. We will be watching and if you have some ideas of what measures should be taken, share them with your federal representative and your fellow Canadians now.

In the meantime, Canadians can continue to take their own steps by boycotng all travel to the United States and by doing everything we can to avoid buying U.S. products.

Together, we the people of Canada, can send a strong message that we are not going to take being bullied like this .

As the Prime Minister said in his address to the nation; “In the last year and a half, Canadians have met this moment with resolve, purpose, and strength. We are vacationing in our national parks. Buying Canadian products. Choosing Canadian. Small acts of solidarity. Repeated millions of times that make a statement: we are the masters of our destiny.”

Three cheers for that!

– Doug Draper, Niagara At Large

To read the full text of Prime Minister Mark Carney’s address to Canadians, click on – https://www.pm.gc.ca/en/news/speeches/2026/08/22/prime-minister-carney-delivers-remarks-canada-us-trade-negotiations

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!

And Let’s Continue To Do Everything Else We Can To Stand Up For Canada And Against The Threats and Punishing Tariffs Trump And His Followers Are Aiming At Us

A Brief Commentary by Doug Draper

Posted August 21^st, 2026 on Niagara At Large

There are reports that our federal government in Canada may have been urging Ontario and other provinces to lift their ban on selling American alcoholic beverages as one way of convincing Trump to at least reduce his punishing tariffs on our country.

Now that talks with Trump to do so have broken down to a point where this screwball in the White House is slapping even more tariffs on a wide range of Canadian goods, U.S. wines and spirits should remain off Canadian retail shelves for the rest of time he is in office. Continue reading →

“As marine shipping on the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway is a primary conduit for bi-national trade, this development will be challenging for many members of the CMC and their customers and may very well result in increases in the cost of living and potential scarcity in the availability of essential commodities.” – Jason Card, Vice-President of External Affairs for the Chamber of Marine Commerce

News from the Chamber of Marine Commerce representing marine transporters that ship goods through the Welland Canal, Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway

Posted August 22nd, 2026 on Niagara At Large

One of the many large cargo vessels navigating its way through the Welland Canal every day of the marine shipping season

The new 50% tariffs imposed by the Trump Administration, as well as the promise of Canadian counter tariffs, will cause significant challenges for many companies represented by Chamber of Marine Commerce (CMC) that support the in-land marine supply chain, as well as the customers those companies serve on both sides of the border.

“As marine shipping on the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway is a primary conduit for bi-national trade, this development will be challenging for many members of the CMC and their customers and may very well result in increases in the cost of living and potential scarcity in the availability of essential commodities,” noted Jason Card, Vice-President of External Affairs for the Chamber of Marine Commerce. Continue reading →

This notice remains in effect until 9:00 AM on Tuesday August 25th, 2026, and will be updated as conditions warrant.

Flood Alert from the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA), based on upcoming forecasts from Environment Canada’s weather specialists

Posted August 21st, 2026 on Niagara At Large 

The Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) is advising local municipalities, emergency services, and the public of the potential for flooding within its jurisdiction. This includes the Niagara Peninsula, the southeastern portion of the City of Hamilton, and the eastern portion of Haldimand County.

A slow-moving weather system is expected to bring thunderstorms and significant rainfall from Saturday, August 22, through Monday, August 24. Total rainfall amounts of 40 to 60 mm are possible, with locally higher amounts where thunderstorms develop. Thunderstorms may produce an additional 15 to 25 mm in affected areas. Continue reading →

A Public Service Announcement from the Town of Lincoln in Niagara, Ontario

Posted August 21^st, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Lincoln, ON  – The Town of Lincoln is updating community members about expanded waste services that are providing additional time to manage waste related to the recent flooding and ongoing recovery efforts.

Waived Landfill Tipping Fees

The waiving of landfill tipping fees for eligible flood-related waste has been extended through Saturday, August 29, 2026*.

 The limit to the number of truckloads or trailers visits per household have also been lifted. Continue reading →

A Statement from St. Catharines NDP MPP Jennie Sevens

Posted August 20^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

St. Catharines NDP MPP Jennie Stevens

St. CATHARINES – NDP MPP Jennie Stevens (St. Catharines) released a statement following the announcement from the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) that ten offices will be closed and the organization is cutting nearly 500 jobs:

“We have learned that the WSIB is cutting hundreds of jobs and closing ten offices across Ontario, including the St. Catharines office.

“These cuts will mean the loss of good local jobs and, importantly, the loss of experienced, high-seniority workers who carry years of institutional knowledge about Ontario’s workers’ compensation system. Continue reading →

“Access to primary care is an important part of what makes Niagara a place where people want to live, work, invest and grow. When residents can access the care they need close to home, it strengthens quality of life, supports workforce attraction and contributes to long-term economic growth across the region.” – George Spezza, Director of Economic Development, Niagara Region.

News from Niagara’s Regional Government

Posted  August 19th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Niagara has added 10 family physicians and connected more than 9,000 additional residents to primary care during the first six months of 2026, according to Ontario’s Ministry of Health.

“Every resident connected to a family doctor is a step toward a healthier, more equitable Niagara,” said Tom Insinna, Acting Niagara Regional Chair. “These results show meaningful progress and reflect the continued success behind physician recruitment and primary care access efforts across the region.” Continue reading →

New Campus Unites Artist And Visitor Residences, Creative Production And Expanded Programming At The Burton Centre For Lifelong Creativity

News from The Shaw Festival

Posted August 19^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON – The Shaw Festival has officially opened the 40,000 square foot Shaw Artists’ Village, bringing together housing, creative production, arts education and professional development on one campus dedicated to exploring the role creativity plays in helping people learn, communicate and connect.

“The Shaw Artists’ Village represents the next chapter in our evolution as a centre for communication, creativity and curiosity,” said Tim Jennings, Executive Director/CEO of the Shaw Festival. Continue reading →

From the Office of Canada’s Prime Minister, Mark Carney

Posted August 18th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney

“Over the last number of weeks, Canada has engaged in intensive discussions with the United States to address outstanding trade issues and deliver greater certainty and real benefits for Canadian businesses, workers, farmers, and families.

Substantial progress has been made, although there is important work still to be done. As this work is ongoing, the United States has agreed to postpone the implementation of its 50% tariff on a range of Canadian goods under Section 338 of the U.S. Tariff Act of 1930 until end of day, August 21. Continue reading →

A report from Brock University in St. Catharines/Niagara,  Ontario

Posted August 18^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Members of the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation have witnessed many changes<https://brocku.ca/brock-news/2021/02/brock-prof-to-talk-climate-change-with-chief-of-vuntut-gwitchin-government/> unfold across the far reaches of their traditional territory in northern Yukon.

Tundra grasslands are being replaced by shrubs. Permafrost is thawing at an accelerated rate. Lakes are draining more than in the past. River and lake shorelines are eroding more quickly. And fires are burning within and beyond the boreal treeline.

Officials from the community have been working with Brock University Professor of Geography and Tourism Studies Kevin Turner’s research lab and Parks Canada staff to track measurements that quantify these changes in Van Tat, commonly known as Old Crow Flats, a 15,000-square-kilometre watershed north of the Arctic Circle and south of the Beaufort Sea. Continue reading →

“This is our farmland, and these are our tax dollars. We are gathering on August 22 to show that the public deserves answers before decisions are made — not after.”                                                – Heather Fyfe, spokesperson for #HandsOffOurFarmland

Public Protest Announced as Questions Grow Over Potential Industrial Development on Ridge Road Farmland

A Call-Out To All Of Us from the Cooks Mills community Group Hands Off Our Farmland

Posted August 17^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Cooks Mills community group calls for transparency from Welland City Council, raises alarm over Ontario’s accelerating loss of agricultural land, and files information request.

The Cooks Mills community group, through its #HandsOffOurFarmland campaign, is calling on Welland City Council for full transparency regarding the future of agricultural land on Ridge Road and announcing a public protest for Saturday, August 22, 2026. Continue reading →

A Full Text of Premier Doug Ford’s Speech at the 2026 Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) Annual Conference, August 17^th , 2026

Posted  August 17^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

(A Brief Foreword Note by Doug Draper at Niagara At Large – Those of you who are regular visitors to Niagara At Large would know by now that this reporter/commentator has many significant concerns with the policies and with the decisions made by Premier Ford. Nevertheless, I am posting his full speech to our municipal leaders for the record and for those of you who may wish to read it for information purposes.)

Ontario Premier Doug Ford

OTTAWA — Premier Ford delivered the following remarks at the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) 2026 annual general meeting and conference.

“Good morning, everyone.

It’s great to be back here in Ottawa with all of you for the 2026 AMO Conference. Continue reading →

An Invite To All from the Niagara Falls Nature Club

Posted August 17th, 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 Aug 19th 2026
TIME: 7:00PM
LOCATION: Malcolmson Eco-Park
DIFFICULTY RATING:  2/10

DESCRIPTION: We will observe the native plant restoration that is attracting many birds and mammals.

LOCATION: 325 Lakeshore Rd, St Catharines. Free parking!

RSVP to niagarafallsnatureclub@gmail.com to register.

WE LOOK FORWARD TO WANDERING WITH YOU!  Continue reading →

In the upcoming Fall municipal elections, it is imperative that we elected candidates in Niagara who promise to do everything they can to protect our environment and to take action at the community level to address climate change.

• Posted by Doug Draper on Niagara At Large, August 15^th, 2026

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!

Whale Sanctuary Project is calling on Shedd Aquarium and Georgia Aquarium (in U.S.) to committing publicly that the Marineland belugas transferred into their care will not be bred

“Marineland’s collapse should be a turning point for captive belugas, not an opportunity to continue the cycle of forcing them to live in barren tanks while growing its inhumane breeding program,”                               – Dr. Lori Marino, President and Founder of the Whale Sanctuary Project, Nova Scotia Canada

A Call-Out from The Whale Sanctuary Project, a not-for-profit marine mamal protection group based in Nova Scotia, Canada

Posted August 14^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Another beluga whale from Marineland’s defunct amusement park in Niagara Falls, Ontario moving out

Four whales bound for Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium and two for Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta as third airlift in three weeks moves animals from one concrete tank to another

 The Whale Sanctuary Project (in Nova Scotia, Canada) is raising concerns over the breeding programs of both Shedd Aquarium and Georgia Aquarium as six more beluga whales were removed from Marineland (in Niagara Falls, Ontario) and transported this week.

Transferring beluga whales from one impoverished environment to another, only to be bred, should not be celebrated as the humane end to this crisis.

“Marineland’s collapse should be a turning point for captive belugas, not an opportunity to continue the cycle of forcing them to live in barren tanks while growing its inhumane breeding program,” said Dr. Lori Marino, President and Founder of the Whale Sanctuary Project. Continue reading →

People should not have to wait indefinitely for a dangerous site to be cleaned up. “No neighbourhood should have to live beside this kind of hazard. No one should die because we failed to act.”           – Gwen Kennedy, Director, Coalition for a Better Catharines

A News Release from The Coalition for a Better Catharines, a city-based citizens group

Posted August 14^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

ST. CATHARINES, Ontario — A Niagara Transit Superbus will travel through St. Catharines for the next eight weeks with a message to City Hall, the former GM property owner and the public:

“Clean up the former GM site: No more delays!”

The Coalition for a Better St. Catharines is sponsoring the campaign to demand action at the 55-acre former General Motors property on Ontario Street. Continue reading →

Posted by Doug Draper, reporter/publisher Niagara At Large

August 13^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Greta Thunberg as she looks now at age 23. A voice for her generation on the climate crisis.

“Today we use 100 million barrels of oil every single day. There are no politics to change that. There are no rules to keep that oil in the ground. We can’t save the world by playing by the rules. The rules have to be changed.” ~ 23-year-old, Swedish-born  Greta Thunberg, recognized around the world for her climate activism

To read one of many stories about Donald Trump attacking Greta Thunberg, click on – Donald Trump attacks Greta Thunberg as ‘a troublemaker’ with ‘an anger management problem’ – as she fires back online | LBC

Greta makes the cover of Time Magazine in 2019 as “Person Of The Year.”

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