Author Archives: dougdraper

Proceeds from the sale will be donated to local charities; Hotel Dieu Shaver Foundation, Wellspring Niagara, Special Olympics (St. Catharines), and St. Vincent de Paul Food Bank (Thorold).

Presented by Knights of Columbus, Sacred Heart Council 2319, Thorold

Posted April 14^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Thorold, ONTARIO – Niagara has a solution for a season of lush gardens, vibrant lawns, and healthy plants! The solution starts with the Knights of Columbus 2319 at their 5th annual Garden Fest in Thorold. 

The community event will feature a fertilizer, grass seed, and compost sale.  Potted plants from Schenck Farms will also be available. It’s your one-stop shop for all the essentials to nurture your garden and yard.

Event Details:

Fri., April 25, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.  Sat., April 26, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sun, April 27, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Holy Rosary Hall, parking lot, Sullivan Avenue, Thorold

Whether you’re planting a new lawn, feeding your garden beds, or giving your outdoor spaces a spring refresh, the Knights will have the perfect products for you. The high-quality fertilizers selected for Garden Fest are designed to nourish your soil and promote healthy, vigorous growth. Choose grass seed varieties to suit your needs for sun or shade areas.

Additionally, don’t miss our premium compost donated by Walker Industries for rich, organic material that will boost plant health and structure.

Why Choose Garden Fest?

Customer Service: The Knights will be in action to help you load up  the right products for your lawn’s or garden’s needs.

Top-Quality Products: Garden Fest stocks top quality, local products including fertilizers, grass seeds, compost, and potted plants ensuring your lawn and garden thrives.

Great Value: Enjoy great deals with all-in pricing on premium gardening products during this 3-day sale!

Support Charities:  Proceeds from the sale will be donated to local charities; Hotel Dieu Shaver Foundation, Wellspring Niagara, Special Olympics (St. Catharines), and St. Vincent de Paul Food Bank (Thorold).

Thanks to Sponsors  – The Knights appreciate the support of Garden Fest sponsors.  Financial support from Bocchinfuso Funeral Home, Dixie Regulator and Torch Repair, Marr’s Thorold Foodland, Club Belvedere, Golden Gardens Supply Co., Buck or Two Thorold, JKJ Heating and Air Conditioning enable the Knights to promote the fundraising event for our charities.

Growing together over the past 4 years with Garden Fest and Harvest Fest in Thorold, the Knights’ events have donated $20,952 to charities.

Key highlights of Garden Fest fundraising event:

• Buy Local. Get great deals on top quality, local fertilizer and grass seed supplied by Niagara Orchard & Vineyard Corp., compost from Walker Industries, and potted plants from Schenck Farms and Greenhouses. We’re growing together!
• 50/50 Draw. Purchase tickets in the Knights of Columbus 2319 50/50 draw for a chance to win a cash prize.  You will be helping us help others!
• Bottle Drive. Donate recyclable beer, wine or liquor containers purchased in Ontario. Proceeds go to charities. Help us keep the environment clean and safe.
• Food Collection. Come to Garden Fest to donate non perishable foods for the SVDP Food Bank supporting local families in need

“We’re thrilled to bring together gardening enthusiasts and local companies for this year’s Garden Fest,” said John Perri, Knights of Columbus member and event chair. “We’re offering products that are perfect for gardeners who want to grow beautiful plants. We’re proud to be offering solutions that support healthy, sustainable gardening practices.”

Not too far from the Garden Fest event, you can also meet the Knights at the Earth Day celebration hosted by the City of Thorold. 

Customers can purchase lawn and garden products from the Knights at the community event in the Thorold Arena, Sat. April 26, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.  The Knights famous Beef on a Bun will be on sale as well as hot dogs and popcorn at the arena canteen during the Earth Day celebration.

For more information on Garden Fest email kofc2319@gmail.com

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.

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

News from the Ontario Clean Air Alliance, a not-for-profit citizens group advocating for a cleaner, greener future for Ontario 

Posted April 14^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large 

We applaud the Ford Government pulling U.S. booze off liquor store shelves and cancelling its contract with Elon Musk’s Starlink in response to American economic attacks. 

But this week’s  announcement  that Ontario Power Generation (OPG) and the Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) must adhere to the government’s ban on American companies participating in public procurement processes was largely window dressing. 

The announcement will do nothing to end Ontario’s growing dependence on American fossil gas imports, nor stop OPG from buying American-designed nuclear reactors – thanks to large loopholes in the policy. And that’s simply not good enough.  Continue reading →

A Brief Tribute to Record Stores by Doug Draper

Posted April 12^th, 2025 – Record Store Day – on Niagara At Large

Once upon a time, and not really all that long ago, one of the great pleasure for a music lover was walking through the doors of a well-stocked record store.

Walk into the grand old Sam The Record Man on Yonge Street in Toronto or that amazing music palace called Record Theatre in Buffalo –both gone now – and you felt like a little kid walking into a big room full of bright, shiny toys. Continue reading →

  ‘Poilievre’s plan will make life affordable again by cutting taxes, building homes, lowering costs, and boosting the economy by unleashing Canadian resources and business.’

Federal Election News from Pierre Poilievre’s Conservative Party

Posted April 11^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large 

Canada’s federal Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre

A Brief Foreword by Doug Draper at Niagara At Large – One of the first rules of campaigning in an election is to make sure you get the name of the community you are campaigning in right.

On that score, Poilievre gets an F for at one point during his address saying that he was in Welland when, in fact, he was speaking at a shipyard along the Welland Canal in a neighbouring Niagara municipality of  St. Catharines, Ontario.

After his prepared address, which was peppered with the usual ‘lost Liberal decade’ slogans, Poilievre (as per usually during his stops in this federal election race) only took four questions from the media.

One of the questions came  from a CBC reporter who asked him why he was only taking four questions from the media. Was he afraid to take more, the reporter asked.

“No,” Poilievre quickly resplied before repeating all of his usually talking points about how broken Canada is under 10 years of Liberal government and how a Conservative government would “bring (Canada) home” again with Canadian flags waving proudly above. Continue reading →

In Wake Of Trump Tariff War, Canadians Respond By Giving U.S. Travel A Thumbs Down

News from Statistics Canada

Posted April 11^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Canadian-resident return trips from the United States by automobile continue to decline.

In March, the number of Canadian-resident return trips by automobile from the United States totaled 1.5 million, a steep decline – down 31.9 per cent – from the same month in 2024.

March 2025 marked the third consecutive month of year-over-year decline, and the third decline observed since March 2021. Continue reading →

Niagara Falls NDP MPP Wayne Gates

“Right now, top of mind for people in Niagara is protecting local jobs and our economy from the threat of Trump’s tariffs. We must invest into supporting important local sectors, including auto, manufacturing, tourism, and agriculture. We must continue to support a buy local, buy Canadian strategy.”  – Wayne Gates, MPP for the provincial Niagara Falls Riding that includes Niagara Falls, Fort Erie and Niagara-on-the-Lake

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

Posted April 11^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

NIAGARA FALLS – MPP Wayne Gates (Niagara Falls), who has been recently re-elected for a fifth term as the representative for Niagara Falls, Fort Erie & Niagara-on-the-Lake, has laid out his priorities for the community as the provincial legislature returns on Monday, April 14th.

“Right now, top of mind for people in Niagara is protecting local jobs and our economy from the threat of Trump’s tariffs”, said Gates.

“We must invest into supporting important local sectors, including auto, manufacturing, tourism, and agriculture. We must continue to support a buy local, buy Canadian strategy, we must knock down barriers to interprovincial trade, and we must make sure we are getting direct supports into the hands of workers and their families.” Continue reading →

West Harbour GO Station Upgrades Will Save Riders Over Fifteen Minutes per Roundtrip

News from the Constituency Office of Niagara West MPP Sam Oosterhoff

Posted April 11^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Niagara West Ford government MPP Sam Oosterhoff

HAMILTON – As part of its plan to deliver faster and more reliable GO service across the Greater Golden Horseshoe, the Ontario government has completed construction at West Harbour GO Station, including a recent upgrade that will save more than 250,000 commuters from Niagara over fifteen minutes per roundtrip.

“These completed upgrades at West Harbour GO Station will save Niagara commuters more than an hour per week and opens the way for additional service as the province moves ahead with the Grimsby GO Station,” said Sam Oosterhoff, MPP for Niagara West.

“As our government makes record investments in transit across the province, we are providing commuters in Niagara with easier access to fast, reliable and affordable public transit.” Continue reading →

Expansion will help municipalities deliver on provincial priorities like building homes and infrastructure

Expansion Includes Seven More Municipalities In Niagara For A Total Of 10 Out Of 12 (Find Link For Complete List Below)

News from The Government of Ontario Premier Doug Ford

Posted April 10, 2025 on Niagara At Large

TORONTO — Ontario is proposing to expand strong mayor powers to the heads of council in 169 additional municipalities effective May 1, 2025 to help deliver on provincial priorities, such as building more homes, transit and other infrastructure across Ontario.

This significant expansion reflects Ontario’s commitment to streamline local governance and help ensure municipalities have the tools they need to reduce obstacles that can stand in the way of new housing and infrastructure development. Continue reading →

Hosted by Niagara’s Islam and Rights Advocacy Association

Posted April 10^th, 2025 on 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.

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

A Brief One from Doug Draper at Niagara At Large

Posted April 9^th, 2025

It’s been particularly tough these past three or four months, but there is also so much that we Canadians can feel proud of in the wake of all of the threats and all of the damage Trump is still trying to do to our country.

I think that a good deal of it can be summed up in the following quote that a friend and long-time supporter of Niagara At Large sent me a few months ago, and here it is –

Let’s continue to stand together in the face of the bully south of the border by purchasing as many Canadian products as we can and by boycotting ‘Made In The U.S.A.’.

Stay Tune for more news and commentary on Niagara At Large starting this April 10th.

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.

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

An Invite from the West Niagara Chamber of Commerce in Niagara, Ontario

Possibly the best way to deal with politicians you feel are not doing a good job of working for the public at large. Fire them at the ballot box.

Posted April 9^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

The West Niagara Chambers of Commerce invites you to our 2025 Federal Election All-Candidates Night for the Niagara West Riding. This is your chance to hear directly from the candidates and learn where they stand on key issues.

• Monday, April 14, 2025

• West Niagara Secondary School

• 7:00 PM–9:00 PM (doors open at 6:30 PM)

Continue reading →

An Invite from the grassroots group, The Hamilton 350 Committee

Posted April 9^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Join the global Fridays for Future movement and come to our Hamilton rally happening on Friday April 11 at 3:30 pm at Gore Park.

Let’s work together to demand action on the climate crisis and support a youth-led movement.

Stay tuned for more announcements

Continue reading →

“Your voice is your power. Don’t let anyone take away your power. Now is the time to stand up. Now is the time to speak out.” – Kamala Harris, former U.S. Senator, Vice-President and Democratic presidential candidate

A Brief Commentary by Doug Draper

Posted April 8th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

On of my favourite photos from hundreds of rallies that took place this past April 5th against Trump and his dangerous and destructive agenda

With all of the bad going down these days around ‘King Trump’, it is easy to fall into a state of despair.

I think that is a big part of his game plan though, to the extent he has any kind of a coherent plan beyond whatever nonsense he reads on his smart phone while sitting on his golden throne in the middle of the night. It is to bum us out and grind us down to a point where there is little or no strength left and resistance to what he and others in his idiocracy do.

The turnout on streets, in parks and courtyards across the United States (and some cities in Canada) of countless hundreds of thousands people this past Saturday, April 5^th to protest what Trump is doing to unravel democracy and agencies and institutions that provided vital public services, and the threats he is aiming at Canada and other longtime friends and allies around the world transmits a powerful sign of hope.

One of the many rallies in cities and towns across North America this past April 5th.

It should inspire us all to believe that if there is enough of us standing together, there is hope that we can snuff out what Trump and his ilk are trying to do to the freedoms and common good efforts generations of people in the United States and Canada have fought so hard for.

On the American news network MSNBC this April 7^th, author, political commentator and network host extraordinaire Rachel Maddow did a fabulous job of highlighting the passion and energy in those ‘Hands-Off rallies’ a few days earlier.

To hear and watch Rachel Maddow’s coverage of those rallies, 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 Following The Bernie Sanders Quote Below.

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

“There are opportunities right now, a silver lining perhaps, for us to have a more nuanced story about the implications of what we’re consuming, including the effect on climate.”                             – Brock University Associate Professor Jennifer Good

News from Brock University in St. Catharines, Ontario

Posted April 8^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Brock University Associate Professor Jennifer Good

Niagara, Ontario – As Canadians continue swapping American-made goods for local alternatives, Jennifer Ellen (Jenellen) Good says the time may be right for conversations to shift from what is being consumed — to how much.

“We’re living in fraught times and in amongst the chaos, it seems like an opportunity to think differently about the stories we tell about consumerism and our planet,” she says. “Sure, let’s buy Canadian, but what about also buying less?”

The Brock University Associate Professor of Communication, Popular Culture and Film studies stories told about the environment and how those stories relate to the relationship between people and the Earth. For example, she has researched the intersection of fast fashion — the rapid production and distribution of inexpensive clothing that mirrors fashion trends — and sustainability. Continue reading →

“This community room is a meaningful step toward creating an environment where Indigenous patients and families feel welcomed, supported and valued.”                                                          – Linda Boich, Executive Vice-President, Patient Experience and Integrated Care for Niagara Health

News from Niagara Health, the almagamated system of hospital services across the Niagara regon

Posted April 8^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

From left Shyann Jenkins, Indigenous Community Outreach and Engagement and Cherie Bernard, Environmental Services Aide celebrate the opening of the new community room space.

Niagara, Ontario – Niagara Health is committed to meeting the needs of all Indigenous community members. As part of our commitment to Reconciliation to provide culturally inclusive care, Niagara Health’s Indigenous Health Services and Reconciliation team has opened a new Indigenous community room at the Marotta Family Hospital, with programming set to begin this month.

The Gathering of the Good Minds was selected by community members as the name for this room, which will serve as a welcoming space where Indigenous community members can connect, access resources and host programming. Continue reading →

A Statement from Ontario’s Ford Government

Posted April 8^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

TORONTO — Kevin Holland, Ontario’s Associate Minister of Forestry and Forest Products, and Vic Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade, issued the following statement in response to the latest U.S. decision on softwood lumber duties. –

“Ontario is deeply disappointed that the United States intends to drastically raise duty rates on Canadian softwood lumber exports later this year. These unjustified and punitive measures will raise construction costs and further strain housing affordability for American families. Continue reading →

A Brief Comment from Doug Draper at Niagara At Large

Posted April 7^th, 2025

The president from hell seems to be getting sick pleasure from wreaking havoc on us all.

I just got through listening to a phone-in program on CBC Radio asking people in Ontario if their money situation is being impacted by the death dive  finances are taking, for the third day in a row, on Wall Street, on the Toronto Stock Exchange and on other global markets  – all because of Trump’s decision to use tariffs to wreak havoc on countries around the world.

A number of people who phoned in to the CBC program said they were losing thousands and, in some cases, tens-of-thousands of money they worked hard for and had placed in investment portfolios.

A number of the callers also said that they are cancelling plans to go on a vacation, to buy a car, a home and, in the case of some who are approaching their senior years or are already in them,  to retire.

One question here – 

When in hell are enough members of Trump’s own party going to grow some spine – to put it politely – and stop this madman before we end up drowning in a 1930s-like Great Recession?

Do none of them at least care about what could happen to the lives of those who voted for them? What in hell is wrong with them?

Trump Republicans could get off the crazy train and join Democrats in voting down this malignant narcissistic maniac’s tariff war TODAY!

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.

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

“When New Democrats brought forward legislation to protect severance, vacation pay, and pensions during bankruptcies, the Liberals blocked it. The Conservatives didn’t lift a finger.”

A Federal Election Message from NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh

Posted April 7^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Short of a miracle, the days of this Hudson Bay store at the Pen Centre in St. Catharines/Niagara are numbered. And what will become of those who work there and any support for them? photo by Doug Draper, NAL

TORONTO – As iconic Canadian companies like Hudson’s Bay are dismantled and sold off by foreign private equity firms, NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh announced that an NDP government will bring in tough new rules to stop billionaire-backed investors from buying up Canadian businesses just to strip them for parts and abandon workers.

“Hudson’s Bay has been part of Canada since before Canada was even a country,” said Singh. “But now, an American hedge fund is walking away with the real estate while workers are left with nothing—not their wages, not their severance, not even a thank you. We are done letting that happen. New Democrats will stand up for Canadian workers, not Wall Street billionaires.” Continue reading →

A News Release from the Office of NDP Official Opposition Leader Marit Stiles

Posted April 7^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

QUEEN’S PARK – Marit Stiles unveiled the Shadow Cabinet for the 44th Legislative Assembly of Ontario. The Ontario NDP was re-elected as the Official Opposition at Queen’s Park with 27 seats representing communities in every corner of the province.

All three NDP incumbents in the Niagara area won back their seats in the recent provincial election and will be members of their party’s shadow cabinet, They include, from lett, Niagara Centre MPP Jeff Burch, Niagara Falls MPP Wayne Gates and St. Catharines MPP Jennie Stevens

“The people have put their trust in New Democrats to once again serve as the official opposition while our province faces unprecedented economic uncertainty from south of the border. Continue reading →

Province delivering support to businesses, while making Ontario the best place in the G7 to invest, create jobs and do business

“We can’t control President Trump, but we’re in full control of the kind of future we build for ourselves.”       – Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario

News from the Office of Ontario Premier Doug Ford

Posted April 7^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Ontario Premier Doug Ford

TORONTO — The Ontario government is providing approximately $11 billion in relief and support for workers and businesses as it protects the province’s economy from economic uncertainty and the impact of U.S. tariffs.

“In the face of President Trump’s attacks on Ontario’s economy, our government will do whatever it takes to protect Ontario workers and businesses. Today’s measures will help give workers and businesses the support they need in the face of growing economic uncertainty,” said Premier Doug Ford. Continue reading →

We Canadians Have To Remember That We Have Many Allies In the United States In Our Fight Against Trump’s Dangerous Actions

A Brief Commentary by Doug Draper, followed by a news video on the ‘Hands-Off’ rally held in Buffalo, New York this April 5th

Posted April 6^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

A sign from the Buffalo, N.Y. Hands-Off Rally.

Even as we Canadians rightfully show our anger against the threats Trump and his followers continue to make against our country, we should remember that there are many Americans, including our neighbours in Buffalo, N.Y., who also oppose the awful damage rump is working to doing on their country and ours..

That is why t is important for Canadians and Americans who oppose Trump’s reign of terror to show support for each other, just as citizens from the Buffalo area did days ago when they lined up on their side of  the Niagara River near the Peace Bridge, waving Canadian flags so people on our side could see.

This April 5^th, 2025, thousands of Buffalo area residents also joined the giant ‘Hands-Off’ rallies countless hundreds of thousands of  fellow citizens were participating in across their country in what will hopefully be the beginning of a nation-wide movement to stop Trump and his rancid march for autocracy and fascism. Continue reading →

Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission approves construction license for Darlington New Nuclear Project

News from Ontario’s Ford Government

Posted April 4^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

A Brief Foreword by Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper –

Why isn’t Ford  taking our tax dollars and doing more of this instead? Is he afraid of being a world leader in 21st Century energy generation?

I know that this is beginning to sound like a broken record that I am getting tired of too, but just think of how much further we could go with the billions of dollars Ford wants to spend on nuclear reactors if we took that money and spent it on  more renewable & environmentally sustainable energy projects like wind and solar.

And why isn’t the Ford government willing to take more seriously measures to build new homes and other buildings and retrofit existing ones to conserve more energy? Why is energy conservation hardly ever mentioned by this government and by governments at the municipal and federal level, for that matter?

Certainly a good many jobs would be created moving with more vigor in those directions too!

Ontario’s massive, more than three and a half decade old Darlington Nuclear plant, located along the northern shores of Lake Ontario.

Now here is the Ford government’s news release – 

TORONTO, Ontario – Today (this April 4^th) , Stephen Lecce, Ontario’s Minister of Energy and Mines, issued the following statement in response to the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission’s decision to issue a power reactor construction licence for Unit One of the Darlington New Nuclear Project. Continue reading →

Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada

“The global economy is fundamentally different today than yesterday. We must respond with purpose and force and take every step to protect Canadian workers and businesses against the unjust tariffs imposed by the United States, including on automobiles. We will never cease to defend the interests of Canadians, safeguard our workers and businesses, and continue our pursuit to build the strongest economy in the G7.”                                                                — Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada

News from the Office of Canada’s Prime Minister

Posted April 4^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large 

This past Wednesday, April 2^nd, 2025, the United States administration announced a series of unwarranted and unjustified tariffs that will fundamentally change the international trading system. 

While some important elements of the Canada U.S. trade relationship have been preserved, new tariffs on automobiles have now entered into force. These are on top of the previously announced tariffs, including those on steel and aluminum, which remain in place.  Continue reading →

Increase to $17.60 an hour will take effect October 1

News from the Government of Ontario, followed by a Critique by Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper

Posted April 4th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

TORONTO — The Ontario government is increasing the minimum wage from $17.20 to $17.60 an hour effective October 1, 2025, to support workers and businesses. This annualized wage increase is based on the Ontario Consumer Price Index (CPI) of 2.4 per cent and will bring Ontario’s minimum wage to the second highest provincial rate in Canada.

“Our government will continue to have the backs of Ontario workers, investing in skills training and development and helping ensure that work pays,” said David Piccini, Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. “Ontario’s minimum wage remains one of the highest in the country. Now more than ever, workers and businesses need fair, balanced and predictable wages.” Continue reading →

Trump Slaps Tariffs On An Island Inhabited By Nothing But Penguins And Other So-Called ‘Nations’

A Brief Commentary by Doug Draper, followed by a video featuring MSNBS’s Rachel Maddow doing another well-deserved number of Trump

Posted April 3^rd, 2025 on Niagara At Large

In his lavishly produced presentation at the Whie House this April 2nd, Trump holds up charts of dozens of countries around the world who deserve to have stiff tariffs slapped on them because, in his words, they have been ‘raping us’ and ‘ripping us off.’

There is hardly a day that goes by when something that Trump says or does to make the world around him a train wreck again leaves me feeling bewildered at the thought that a total of 77,284,118 Americans – 49.8 per cent of those who bothered to go to the polls in last November’s U.S. presidential election – cast a vote to put this dangerous, self-serving screwball back in the White House.

This April 2^nd, 2025 was certainly another one of those days as I sat in front of a screen at home and watched Trump using the Rose Garden on the White House lawns like a stage for a cheaply scripted reality TV show as he slapped a new round of tariffs on literally dozens of nations– even after at least a couple hundred eminent economists and corporate leaders warned him that these tariffs could lead to millions of job losses and recessions in his country and others around the world. Continue reading →

A Brief Commentary by Doug Draper, followed by a disturbing CBC TV News report

Posted April 3^rd, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Since Trump began his threats against Canada’s economy and sovereignty more than four months ago, I have heard many of my fellow Canadians say out loud that they are now afraid to cross the border to the United States.

Many have also said they will not cross the border on principle and out of a sense of support for Canada. And some have said they will not enter the United States “until he (meaning Trump) is gone.” Continue reading →

With an election underway, we should be asking our candidates where they stand on tax fairness, income inequality, and wealth inequality.

A Federal Electon Message from the public advocacy group Canadians for Tax Fairness

Posted April 3^rd, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Regardless of who wins this federal election, our research has shown a disturbing trend over the last 40 years: market-oriented economic and tax policies have siphoned the gains of economic growth to the very top, leaving millions of Canadians behind.

Canadians are keenly aware of what’s happening with the US right now. While much of it is chaos from the Trump government, some Americans are raising the right concerns.

Recently, Bernie Sanders described what’s happening in America as, “the Robin Hood principle in reverse – taking from the poor and giving to the rich and very, very rich.”

That trend isn’t just an American phenomenon. It’s happening here too:

• – Since 1982, the top 0.01% in Canada have grown their incomes 6x faster than the bottom 50%
• – While GDP per capita has risen by 70%, incomes for half of Canadians have increased at less than half that rate

With an election underway, we should be asking our candidates where they stand on tax fairness, income inequality, and wealth inequality.

Canadians for Tax Fairness will continue to pose these questions, before, during, and after the election. Our research and advocacy ensure that the facts are front and center. But we can’t do it without you.

Together, we can stop the reverse Robin Hood effect and advocate for a fairer future for all Canadians.

To make a donation, please visit: www.taxfairness.ca/donate

About C4TF – Canadians for Tax Fairness (C4TF) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that advocates for fair and progressive tax policies, aimed at building a strong and sustainable economy, reducing inequalities, and funding quality public services.

Our vision is a country where taxation is regarded as a way to invest in Canada and Canadians. We believe in a progressive tax system where all individuals and corporations pay their fair share. We believe that Canada in the 21st century should be a society in which economic disparities are decreasing, basic needs are met by investing in high-quality public services, economic policies are designed to create good quality jobs and protect our environment, and the will of the people drives our political process.

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.

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

Posted by Doug Draper this  April 2^nd, 2025 on Niagara At Large

In the wake of a tsunami of punishing tariffs that Trump slapped on countries around the world this April 2^nd, Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney said the tariffs will affect the lives of millions of Canadians.

Carney said during a brief news briefing after a cabinet meeting in Ottawa that Canada is going to fight Trump’s tariffs with “counter measures” and act to protect Canadian jobs. He added that he will be meeting with provincial premiers and territorial leaders across the country this Thursday, April 3^rd and will have more to say about actions Canada will take after that meeting.

To watch a video of the Prime Minister’s April 2^nd late afternoon news briefing, click on – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TT7y9ZLK8EE 

In concert with measures our federal and provincial governments are already taking and with more measures from our governments to come, let’s continue, as Canadian citizens, to do whatever we can to buy Canadian and boycott the United States.  – 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.

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

U.S. Trump Administration Designates Canada’s “Zero Plastic Waste Agenda” as a Barrier to Trade

A Statement  from Environmental Defence Canada, a nationwide citizens group dedicated to environmental protection, followed by a brief commentary by Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper, accompanied by  two videos on Trump, Polievre and Plastic

Posted April 2^nd, 2025 on Niagara At Large

 It is appalling that the latest report from the U.S. government on trade barriers points the finger at the Canadian government’s action on plastic pollution.

The entry on plastics reads like talking points from the plastics and petrochemical industry that has long opposed action on plastic pollution in the U.S. and elsewhere, including Canada.

Canada is absolutely right to tackle the causes of plastic pollution, including restricting harmful, unnecessary plastic items that are often used for a short time, but persist in the environment and cause harm to animals and the places they live.

What’s more, medical researchers are finding plastic particles everywhere they look in the human body, including the brain and other vital organs. We are literally eating, drinking and breathing in plastic without understanding the full impact on our health.

Polling consistently reflects strong support for action on plastics among people who live in Canada. The trade war with the United States has underscored the need to support Canadian-made  products.

Trump using a plastic straw in his soft drink to wash down one of his favourites meals – MacDonald’s fries and cheeseburgers.Polling consistently reflects strong support for action on plastics among people who live in Canada. The trade war with the United States has underscored the need to support Canadian-made  products. Tackling plastic pollution must be integral to Canada’s response.

Protecting and enhancing the single-use plastics bans while supporting convenient and affordable reuse and refill systems can help reduce reliance on U.S.-sourced single-use packaging and shield Canadian food growers and producers from price volatility, all while eliminating waste and pollution.

ABOUT ENVIRONMENTAL DEFENCE ( environmentaldefence.ca ): Environmental Defence is a leading Canadian environmental advocacy organization that works with government, industry and individuals to defend clean water, a safe climate and healthy communities.

A Brief Commentary by Doug Draper At Niagara At Large – After he was sworn in for a second terms as U.S. president this January, Trump signed an executive order calling for a return of plastic straws over the paper straws that replaced them. 

To watch a video of him signing that order, click on the video immediately below –

Then, this past February, Canada’s Trump-like federal Conservative Party leader Pierre Polievre went after then Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his Liberal government for what he called their “unconstitutional plastics ban.”

Polievre gives every reason to believe he would move quickly to gut this ban, which is actually a phase-out of one-time-use, throw away plastic straws, packaging and related plastic waste – if he becomes Canada’s next prime minister – a move that would put Canada in step with Trump and behind countries in Europe that already have plastic phase-out programs in place.

Watch the following video of Polievre, attacking the Liveral government’s plastic phase-out program and ask yourself if this is who we want in the Prime Minister’s Office in Canada for the next four years.

To watch click on the screen immediately below –

You might find it hard to convince me that Trump and Poilievre are not   political soul brothers. – 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.

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

“It is vitally important that our current moment of patriotism and nationalism be used positively. Our Canadian sovereignty is under attack by the United States, and it’s at risk, which tells us that sovereignty is important, something we should respect, especially in our treaty obligations with First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.”                                          – Brock University Associate Professor of Political Science Blayne Haggart

News from Brock University in St. Catharines, Niagara

Posted April 2^nd, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Brock University Associate Professor of Political Science Blayne Haggart

Niagara, Ontario – A Brock expert, together with colleagues from other Canadian universities, is calling upon the federal government to convene a royal commission on securing Canada’s future.

Alongside Jörg Broschek, Érick Duchesne and Patrick Leblond, Brock University Associate Professor of Political Science Blayne Haggart penned an open letter, available in English<https://uniweb.uottawa.ca/sites/Open-Letter-Royal-Commission> and French<https://uniweb.uottawa.ca/sites/Lettre-ouverte-commission-royale> and also published by Policy Options<https://policyoptions.irpp.org/magazines/march-2025/royal-commission-future/>, outlining the argument in favour of a royal commission.

Haggart says that although royal commissions may seem old-fashioned — the last one was the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples, established in 1991 — they have proven effective at mapping out complex issues and informing a path forward. Continue reading →

This notice is in effect until 9:00 AM, Monday, April 7th, 2025, and will be updated as required.

A Flood Watch Report from the Niagara Peninsula Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA)

Posted April 2^nd, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – For Wednesday, April 2nd, 2025, this notice is intended to advise the public and local municipalities of the potential for flooding within the NPCA’s jurisdiction as it relates to the Niagara Peninsula, the southeastern portion of the City of Hamilton and the eastern portion of Haldimand County.

Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued a rainfall warning for Southern Ontario. A low-pressure system is forecasted to move into the province on Wednesday morning, bringing rain and freezing rain to much of Southern Ontario. Continue reading →

‘Now, more than ever, supporting Ontario farmers helps protect the local food supply we rely on.’

A Call-Out to All of Us from the Ontario Greenbelt Foundation

Posted April 3^rd, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Spring has arrived in the Greenbelt, bringing fresh local flavours and a renewed appreciation for everything this protected landscape provides!

April marks the arrival of Ontario-grown asparagus, rhubarb, greenhouse greens. These seasonal favourites highlight the rich farmland and fresh water that make the Greenbelt essential to our province’s food system.

Now, more than ever, supporting Ontario farmers helps protect the local food supply we rely on. Visit a farmers’ market or check your grocery store for Ontario-grown produce to enjoy the best of early spring while keeping our agricultural communities strong.

Every bite of local food is a step toward a healthier, more resilient future!

Find A Market Near You. Click on [https://communications.greenbelt.ca/ext/click/go/3bbf040d33a5629a7ee624d988307f46/2523e9caba0b83ffcc067eaa7a14f9c6/1950cfb70e1ae9f3481a905ba40a0893]

For more on Ontario’s Greenbelt Foundation, click on – https://www.greenbelt.ca/ 

A Note from Doug Draper at Niagara At Large  – The list of farmer’s markets in the link above does not appear to include other markets in Niagara – in Welland, Port Colborne, Pelham, Niagara Falls and in other communities across the region. Please do a little research in your community and find the market nearest you.

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.

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

April 2025 Airline Bookings Between Canada And U.S. Down 76% From 2024

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

Posted April 2nd, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Annexation threats from U.S. President Donald Trump and stories of detainment by American police and border officers are causing a collapse in airline flight bookings between Canada and the United States, according to travel data company OAG [ h a UK-based airline travel data aggregator.

OAG reports airline ticket purchases made by mid-March 2025 for flights between Canadian and U.S. airports in April 2025 are down almost 76 per cent from the number made by mid-March 2024 for April 2024.

By mid-March 2024 there were 1,218,570 airline seats booked for travel between Canadian and U.S. locations in April 2024.

As of mid-March 2025, only 295,982 seats are booked for Canada-U.S. travel this April, according to OAG. Continue reading →

Under our plan, Ontarians get  lower electricity costs , more jobs and reduced exposure to erratic American whims.

A News Release from the Ontario Clean Air Alliance, a citizens group advocating for a cleaner, greener environment for all

Posted April 2nd, 2025 on Niagara At Large

In response to President Trump’s 25 percent tariffs on cars and auto parts crossing the border, Premier Ford stated:

“We’re going to make sure that we inflict as much pain as possible to the American people without inflicting pain on the Canadian population.” [https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ford-retaliatory-tariffs-1.7494676]

We have some ideas for our Premier:

Continue reading →

$35 million investment to rebuild the Royal George Theatre will boost Niagara tourism and support Canadian culture

Shaw Festival executive director Tim Jennings

“Beyond the incredible artistic legacy of this iconic space, The Royal George Theatre generates more than $70 million in economic impact for the region of Niagara every year. Rebuilding this beloved venue has been a priority for us not just so we can continue to deliver outstanding theatre here in the heart of wine country, but to play our part in accelerating the growth of our region as a world-class centre for cultural tourism.”                                                                                                         – Tim Jennings, Executive Director/CEO, Shaw Festival

News from the Government of Ontario

Posted April 1^st, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Shaw Festival’s historic Royal George Theatre

NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, Ontario — The Ontario government is investing $35 million over three years to support the Shaw Festival’s rebuild of the iconic Royal George Theatre. This capital funding will bring a new, larger, modern theatre to Niagara-on-the-Lake and is part of the government’s commitment to boost tourism in the region and establish Niagara as a world-class destination.

“The Shaw Festival is a cultural icon for Ontario and for Canada, and is just one of the many great reasons to visit Niagara-on-the-Lake and the broader Niagara Region throughout the year,” said Stan Cho, Ontario’s Minister of Tourism, Culture and Gaming. “Our government’s investment will help create hundreds of good jobs, boost the local and regional economy and give Ontarians the opportunity to enjoy world-class performances right here at home.” Continue reading →

Breaking News reported by Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper

Posted April 1^st, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Seen here early this past February, the recently re-elected and sworn in President Trump signed an executive order changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the ‘Gulf of America

In his first days as U.S. president, Donald Trump signed an executive order to change the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America.

Now, according to sources close to The White House, Trump is planning to sign another executive order – this time to rename the Great Lakes and adjoining waters shared by his country and a Canada he prefers to call “the 51^st state.”

While reporters in Washington are scrambling to find out when the signing of this  executive  order for the Great Lakes will occur, what they do know is that Trump plans to rename Lake Superior “Lake Elon Musk” to recognize the superior role that multi-billionaire plays in his administration. Continue reading →

Ontario Auditor General Shelley Spence

“Contaminated drinking water can cause gastrointestinal illnesses and other potentially serious health effects, which may result in significant economic costs due to hospitalizations, doctor visits, lost work days and other related costs. As demonstrated by the Walkerton crisis, the consequences of Ontarians drinking unsafe water can be deadly.” – Ontario Auditor General Shelly Spence, from a Special Report

A News Release On A Special Report tabled the the Auditor General of Ontario

Posted April 1^st, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Toronto, Ontario – Nearly 3 million Ontario residents (almost 20% of the population), as well as many businesses and other facilities, rely on non-municipal drinking-water supplies for drinking, preparing food, and bathing.

While over 98% of all samples tested from non-municipal drinking-water systems over the past decade have met the Ontario Drinking Water Quality Standards, not all water is sampled and tested. “A lack of testing can expose Ontarians to risks”, says Auditor General Shelley Spence in a special report tabled this March 31^st  in the Legislature. Continue reading →

“The average wait time for intensive treatment for children and youth who experience impaired functioning because of their mental health problems was 105 days in 2023/24, up from 94 days the year before.”

A News Release from the Office of Ontario’s Auditor General

Posted March 31^st, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Ontario Auditor General Shelley Spence

Toronto, Ontario –  Children and youth in Ontario, especially those with severe mental health issues, are at risk of not being able to access the mental health services they need in the community when they need them.

“As one in five children and youth in Ontario will experience mental health challenges in their lifetimes, the Province needs to ensure young people and their families have timely access to the services and supports that government-funded agencies provide to help them through difficult times,” says Auditor General Shelley Spence. Continue reading →

A Brief Statement from Doug Draper at Niagara At Large, followed by an uplifting and fun ‘Stand Tall’ video

Posted March 31^st. 2025 on Niagara At Large

The grand opening of the great Expo ’67 park in Montreal, visited by millions across the country and around the world during Canada’s 100th anniversary of confederation.

As much of a danger Trump poses to Canada and the rest of the free, democratic world, the one good thing he has done is unite us as a country, with a pride and a strength of collective purpose that I haven’t seen since I was a wee little kid during Canada’s 100^th anniversary celebrations in 1967.

Growing numbers of us are going to grocery stores and other retail outlets to purchase ever possible Made In Canada product that we can or at least buy products from other friendly countries, which the United States is no more. Continue reading →

Canadian citizen and bookstore owner Patricia Massy started the petition below and it now has more than 5,770 signatures. Please add your own and contact federal candidates in your riding to urge them not to slap retaliatory tariffs on books!

Posted March 30^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Dear Booklovers across Canada, we urgently need your help.

The Canadian government is set to impose a 25% retaliatory tariff on books entering Canada from the US (regardless of author origin) beginning April 2nd. This incredibly steep additional cost to retailers will cripple indie bookstores, as well as Canadian authors and publishers.

Books were not listed in the first round of tariffs, but they are now. We need to take action and let our leaders know about the dire impact this will have on the beloved book industry in Canada. 

The Canadian tariff is intended to retaliate on the recent US tariffs, to cause enough hardship for the US so that they will back off. However, these tariffs will have dire consequences for the Canadian book industry.

Continue reading →

“As we navigate the economic storms caused by the international trade situation, it is more important than ever that we come together as a community. Supporting Niagara’s businesses and workers strengthens our local economy, keeps money circulating in our neighbourhoods, and fuels community pride.”  – Jim Bradley, Niagara Regional Chair

A News Release from Niagara’s Regional Government

Posted March 28th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – Niagara Region, in collaboration with all 12 local municipalities, is encouraging residents to Shop, Support and Share Local.

This Support Local initiative joins similar efforts from across the country designed to stimulate local economies and ignite pride in buying local and supporting local businesses. Continue reading →

“Let me tell you how it will be
There’s one for you, nineteen for me
‘Cause I’m the taxman.” – lyrics from the song ‘Taxman’ by George Harrison

News from the Government of Ontario

March 28^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

A Brief Foreword by Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper – Once again, here is the annual list of public sector workers making over $100,000 a year.

As you review this list, if you have the stomach to, you might find it heartening to know that at a time when so many people are struggling to pay their renit, their property taxes and put food on their tables, and when homelessness and lineups at food banks have grown to crisis proportions, that there are others who are doing so fine on our dime. Continue reading →

“Together, we can halt and reverse biodiversity loss, restore protection for species at risk and protect our natural heritage. The only way this will happen is if candidates and political leaders hear loudly and clearly that environmental protection is important to you.”

A Message from Ontario Nature, a citizens organization advocating for the protection of our natural heritage

Posted March 26^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Nature is foundational to the Canadian identity. With a federal election called for April 28, 2025, it is imperative that all political parties commit to protecting and restoring nature.

The next federal government must adequately fund conservation to meet Canada’s international commitment to protect 30% of its lands and waters by 2030.

Science has long documented the human health benefits of healthy ecosystems. Our economy and well-being depend on a federal government that is committed to ensuring a liveable planet for our children and future generations. Continue reading →

Access To Local News Has Decreased For Canadians Over The Past 16 Years.

A News Release from the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives (CCPA)

Posted March 28^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Reversing the loss of local news outlets in Canada is essential to preventing the spread of misinformation.

Sad news from the CCPA’s latest report, News Deprivation: Canadian communities starving for local news. It finds, since 2008, that Canada has lost 11 per cent of its local print media outlets and nine per cent of its private broadcast news outlets. Continue reading →

A News Release from Canadians for Tax Fairness

Posted March 28^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Federal Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre recently said he would “axe the tax” for Canada’s largest industrial  emitters of climate-ravaging carbon pollution.

This past March 18^th, 2025, at a press conference, federal Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre recklessly promised to eliminate federal industrial carbon pricing, rules that ensure big polluters pay for the pollution they cause.

If it wasn’t already obvious, it is now. ‘Axe the tax’ was never about helping Canadians. It’s about giving oil and gas corporations a free pass to pollute while the rest of us pay the price in the air we breathe and the communities we lose to wild fires every year. Continue reading →

From Environmental Defence, A Canada-wide citizens group advocating for a cleaner, greener environment for us all

Posted March 28th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

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

Ottawa, Ontario – Canadians have fought for two decades to make our country safer in the face of climate change. We’re seeing the results. For the first time ever, Canada’s emissions are going down while clean investments and renewable energy jobs are growing.

Oil and gas companies want to take a page from the Trump playbook and gut all of the progress that Canadians have made. In a letter sent yesterday to leaders of Canada’s political parties, 14 CEOs of some of the wealthiest oil and gas companies operating in Canada shared their plan to destroy Canada’s climate progress and put the places and people we love at risk. Continue reading →

Lana Payne, president of the Unifor union representing Canadian auto workers

“Donald Trump has convinced himself that, somehow, the jobs of Canadian autoworkers are his to claim,” said Unifor National President Lana Payne. “We have built cars here for over a century, long before the U.S. was our primary trade partner. I will state this as clearly and unequivocally as I can. These are not his jobs to take.” – Canada’s Unifor Union National President Lana Payne.

“We applaud the Trump administration for stepping up to end the free trade disaster that has devastated working class communities for decades.” – U.S. United Auto Workers Union Leader Shawn Fain.

A News release from the United Auto Workers in the United States, with a Foreword by Doug Draper at Niagara At Large

Posted March 27th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

A Foreword by Doug Draper – Remember that old line; ‘Workers of the world unite’?  I think it was Karl Marx who said that.

This sign along a busy street in front of the Unifor union hall in St. Catharines, Ontario certainly makes it clear how auto workers here feel about Trump and his tariffs. photo by Doug Draper

Well, when it comes to the tariffs Trump is now threatening to impose on auto products from outside the United States, auto workers in Canada and the U.S. seem to be worlds apart when it comes to how they view those threats, or at least their union leaders are.

On the Canadian side of the border, by almost every account, auto  workers and the union leaders who represent them view the Trump tariffs, including the 25 per cent tariff the U.S. president is vowing to impose this coming April 3rd on cars and trucks  shipped into his country, as a move that could put the kibosh on more than 100,000 good-paying jobs  in Niagara, Windsor, Oshawa and other regions of the country. Continue reading →

Bradley Discusses Tariff War Challenges In His 7^th Annual State Of The Region Address

“The coming months may not be easy, but we have the collective power to make Niagara thrive, if we truly treasure our opportunities and embrace our identity as one of the most free, prosperous, resilient and pioneering regions in Canada.”               – Niagara Regional Chair Jim Bradley 

News from Niagara’s Regional Government

Posted March 27^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Regional Chair Jim Bradley. file photo

Niagara, Ontario – Regional Chair Jim Bradley called on Niagara to embrace its resiliency and strength in the face of U.S. tariffs and shore up its economy through his seventh State of the Region address on March 26, hosted by the Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce.

Chair Bradley spoke on international trade, economic prosperity, housing, homelessness and more in his speech to a sold-out audience of over 400 community leaders that included special guests from New York State and Belgium. Continue reading →

The Full Text of  the Address was shared with Niagara At Large by Niagara’s Regional Government

Posted March 26^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

A Brief Foreword by Doug Draper at Niagara At Large – This March 26^th, 2025 Niagara Regional Chair Jim Bradley delivered his annual State of the Region Address to a large gathering of area political,  business  and other community leaders hosted by the Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce at the Club Italia in St. Catharines.

Rather than post a story with selective quotes from that annual address, Niagara At Large has decided, once again, to post the address in its entirety so that readers receive the full breadth of what Niagara’s top political leader had to say on a host of issues from housing and homelessness to economic growth, budget challenges and the impact on our region of the current trade war launched by the U.S. Trump administration 

The only editing that Niagara At Large has done is to highlight  in bold lettering some, but certainly  not all of the key points made in an address that is necessarily long and that covers a good deal of territory around issues and challenges residents across our region are facing today.

I trust that posting the whole text rather than an abbreviated version of it, as is typically the case, is a public service that better informs all of us who engage in the affairs of our region and are eligible to vote in the next municipal elections that will take place a little more than a year from now. – Doug Draper, Niagara At Large

With that, here is the full text of the address, minus a reference to a short video promoting Niagara that was shown  as part of the address  –

STATE OF THE REGION ADDRESS – 2025

Introduction

I would like to start by thanking the dedicated team at the Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce for hosting today’s event, as well as our signature sponsor, Pen Financial Credit Union, for making today possible. Continue reading →

It Could Be Win-Win For Both Of Our Countries

A Commentary by Doug Draper (and yes, I’m that proud Canadian)

Posted March 24^th on Niagara At Large

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith making a pitch for what matters most – more pipelines (paid for by Canadians at large, for  more tar sands production

Even before she was elected Alberta’s premier in 2022, it seemed like Danielle Smith did not care much for being part of a Canada she viewed as a meddler in her province’s right to do whatever it wants.

Not long after she assumed office, she championed a ‘sovereignty act’ which basically told the rest of Canada that if her government didn’t like something other provinces and territories, in concert with the federal government, were agreeing to do for the betterment of all, her province would just circle the wagons and not do it.

Interestingly enough, that ‘stay-out-of-our-face’ posture never seemed to apply when Alberta need money from taxpayers across the rest of Canada to subsidies the cost of new pipelines for the tar sands or to help repair the damage caused by catastrophic wildfires. Continue reading →

A Commentary by Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper

Posted March 23th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Anyone across our Canada who has been paying attention, knew it would soon be coming, and HERE WE ARE!

As of this March 23th, a federal election is on and for the moment, I am hoping for just a few important things from all of us, with more to come later.

First, I am hoping that slightly less than one month after a provincial election in Ontario ended this past February 27^th, we do not tune out due to election fatigue.

Why? Because as some of our political leaders and political analysts have already stressed – with the continued threats to our economic well-being and to the very sovereignty of our country from Trump to the south, this is one of the most consequential elections in Canadian history. Continue reading →

Niagara Regional Chair Jim Bradley,

“Timely access to a family doctor is a necessity for a healthy and thriving community, and I am pleased to see the progress Niagara has made in bringing new physicians to the region. Thanks to the ongoing collaboration and joint efforts of the Region, the area municipalities, our health care system and many other partners, more and more family doctors are choosing Niagara as the place to set up practice, and I look forward to seeing continued success in this regard over the coming year.” – Jim Bradley, Niagara Regional Chair

News from Niagara’s Regional Government

Posted March 22^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – Niagara Region has made significant progress in addressing the physician shortage over the past year, with the net addition of 16 family physicians since January 2024, resulting in a net increase of 15,527 patients receiving access to primary care.

This improvement reflects ongoing efforts to enhance healthcare services throughout the region, ensuring that residents have timely and equitable access to family doctors. This figure reflects the addition of 26 new physicians over the past year, offset by 10 who left practice during the same period. Continue reading →

Media Statement from Ontario Nature, a citizens group dedicated to protecting and preserving Ontario’s natural heritage

Posted March 21^st, 2025 on Niagara At Large

An aerial view of Parks Canada lands where historic Fort George is located near the mouth of the Niagara River in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario

With a federal election on the horizon, it is imperative that all political parties commit to protecting and restoring nature. Canada has already committed to protecting 30% of land, water and oceans by 2030, which is known as the 30 x 30 target.

Yet, significant cuts to Parks Canada’s budget would undermine progress towards this commitment. As reported by Canada’s National Observer, budget documents show Parks Canada is bracing for $450 million in cuts and lapsed funding over the next two years. This would be a significant rollback of nature investment in Canada. Continue reading →

People Power May Still Prevail Over The Dark Shadows Of Trump & Musk

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

Posted March 21^st, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Vermont Senator and New York Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (AOC) host a huge rally for freedom, democracy and justice for all in the heart of Trumpland

It is  hard these days for a Canadian or for a citizen of any other free and democratic country in Europe or elsewhere around the world to look at what has been unfolding in the United States since Trump’s second ascendency to presidential power and not be overcome with  feelings of dread and despair.

I find myself mourning for a country that only a few weeks ago I still viewed as a good friend and neighbor to our Canada. And the threats of wreaking economic havoc on us as a means to forcing a takeover of our country has driven me and many of my fellow citizens to feelings of anger and determination to break away and forge stronger friendships with Europe and beyond.

But then, as a close friend in the United States reminded me over and over again in a recent phone call about all of this mayhem, many Americans did not vote for Trump and even growing numbers who did are already beginning to regret it and are ready to fight back. Continue reading →

In the wake of Trump’s Tariff Threats, ‘Poilievre failed to react to the fundamental change to Canada’s political discourse until February, when he launched his “Canada First” rebrand, a cheap knock-off of (the Trump) MAGA’s “America First” slogan.”

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

Posted March 21st, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Canada’s Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, left, and MAGA America’s Donald Trump

The likelihood of Pierre Poilievre’s Conservatives landing a parliamentary majority has crashed from near certainty to virtual impossibility since Donald Trump became U.S. president on January 20, according to seat projections by 338 Canada.

From the start of the New Year to February 2, the odds were 99 per cent that Poilievre would score a majority as several reputable pollsters found Conservative support at 47 per cent in mid-January.

Polls from Angus Reid, Leger and IPSOS released this week found Conservative support at 37, 39 and 36 per cent, respectively. Continue reading →

From a Summary Report Prepared And Presented (via overheads) to Niagara Regional Council this March 20^th by Members of the Physician Recruitment Roundtable (links to more detailed report can be found below)

Posted March 21^st. 2025 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – The following comes out of a November 26^th 2024 gathering of medical experts, post-secondary school representatives and political leaders in the Niagara region –

Purpose of November, 2024 Roundtable: Niagara’s first-ever roundtable to develop coordinated strategies for attracting and retaining family doctors.

Who Participated: 38 representatives from Niagara’s municipalities, healthcare system, post-secondary institutions, family doctors, and Mayors and CAOs of the area municipalities. Continue reading →

People across the province need a cabinet that “will fight rising costs, invest in building homes, hire doctors, and build a tariff-proof economy.”

A Statement from the Office of Ontario NDP Official Opposition Leader Marit Stiles

Posted March 20^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Ontario’s NDP Leader Marit Stiles holds on to ‘Official Oppositon’ status.

TORONTO — Marit Stiles, Leader of the Official Opposition, released the following statement in response to Doug Ford’s cabinet announcement:

“I want to congratulate Premier Ford and the new cabinet as they are sworn in. However, at this critical moment for Ontario, this is not the time for more of the same.” said Stiles.

“People are worried about the future of our province and our country. They are struggling to afford groceries; they can’t find a family doctor or an affordable place to live.” Continue reading →

News from the Town of Lincoln Chamber of Commerce in Niagara, Ontario

Posted March 21st, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – The Lincoln Chamber of Commerce is pleased to share the results of its latest survey on the impact of the escalating trade challenges with the U.S. on Ontario businesses.

In collaboration our colleagues across Ontario, we gathered insights from 600 Chamber Network members from February 7 to February 23, 2025. Continue reading →

From Doug Draper at Niagara At Large

Posted on the First Day of Spring, March 20th, 2025

Wow! Did we make it through that winter?

I don’t know about you but waking up to a morning of bone-breaking cold and ice and hard patches of ice that are treacherous to walk on is not my idea of a beautiful day for anything but staying inside with the furnace cranked up.

Those heating bills were enough to bring a chill to your spine too.

But here we finally yard with days growing longer and birds chirping in the trees outside and daffodils and crocuses pushing up through the soil.

It’s the first day pf spring – a time for warmer days and new life – and I love it.  So I am going to leave you in a happy mood, I hope, with one of my favourite songs for spring by one of my all-time favourite groups from the 1960s called The Rascals.

The song is called ‘A Beautiful Morning’ and it was released on March 22^nd, 1968. Crank it up and enjoy by clicking on the screen immediately below –

I’m no doctor, but I don’t think it will do your mind and body any harm if you have that song bouncing through your head for the rest of the day.

• Have a Nice Spring, Doug Draper, Niagara At Large

Thank you for visiting Niagara At Large for news and commentary and please encourage everyone in your circle of life to do the same.

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.

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

Ford says experienced team (all listed below) will deliver on historic mandate from the people to protect Ontario’s economy and workers

A News Release from the Office of Ontario Premier Doug Ford with a commentary by Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper

Posted March 20^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

(A Brief Foreword Commentary by Doug Draper at Niagara At Large – Wasn’t there a time when political parties that called themselves Conservative believed in reducing the size and cost of government for taxpayers?

Ontario Premier Doug Ford governs again with one of the largest cabinet’s in the province’s history – a cabinet significantly larger than the one recently sworn in under Prime Minister Mark Carney to govern the whole country.

Yet here Ontario’s Conservative Premier Doug Ford goes again – swearing in one of the largest, if not the largest cabinets in the province’s history with a total of 37 members including himself.

Keep in mind that most, if not all cabinet members need an office and astaff and one of those special cars to be chauffeured  around in, all at a total cost of many millions of dollars to the taxpayers of Ontario. But then, having that many party members enjoying the perks of holding a cabinet job is certainly one way of buying Ford party loyalty, isn’t it.

As you go through the list below, ask yourself how many of these cabinet positions scream out duplication and could easily be combined or eliminated completely. Continue reading →

Fewer Canadians Want To Visit the U.S. Now That The Friendship’s Gone

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

Posted March 18^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Five years ago this week, the Peace Bridge between Fort Erie, Ontario and Buffalo, N.Y., like all border crossings between Canada and the United States, closed to all but “essential” traffic due to COVID-19 spread.

It was five years ago this week that the COVID-19 pandemic began sweeping across North America to a point where governments in Canada and the United States were declaring a states of emergency.

At the same time,  Canada-U.S. border crossings, including the Peace Bridge and Rainbow Bridge spanning the Niagara River, were closed to all but “essential” commercial trade-related traffic in a frantic effort to curb the spread of this highly infectious disease.

Now, thanks not to a health crisis like COVID, but to a dangerous idiot in the White House named Donald Trump who is using punishing tariffs in an effort to crush Canada’s economy and threaten its sovereignty, Canadian travel to the United States has dropped to its lowest levels since around the time the COVID border crossing restrictions were lifted some three years ago. Continue reading →

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

Posted March 18^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – In response to the imposed U.S. tariffs on Canadian goods, the City of St. Catharines is taking decisive action to protect local businesses and ensure economic resilience.

At its meeting on March 17, City Council approved a temporary “Canada-First” procurement policy, prioritizing Canadian-made goods and services in municipal purchasing. The policy is part of a broader strategy to mitigate the economic impact of tariffs on local businesses and infrastructure projects. Continue reading →

“Canadian consumers, now more than ever, have a strong dissociative identity from the U.S. It’s not just that they’re choosing the Canadian option, it’s that they’re not choosing the American products.”                    – Brock U. Professor of Marketing and Consumer Psychology Antonia Mantonakis

News on Canadian Response to Trump Threats from Brock University in St. Catharines, Ontario

Posted March 18^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – As trade war tensions wax and wane, people north of the 49th parallel aren’t meeting U.S. President Donald Trump’s threats of tariffs and annexation with their characteristic politeness.

“Canadians are justly reacting to the imposition of tariffs with outrage, recognizing that they are aimed at their prosperity and quality of life,” says Brock University Associate Professor of Theory and Rhetoric Andrew Pendakis.

Assistant Professor of Sport Management Taylor McKee says many Canadians are responding to these threats by tapping into the use of traditional sport language and doubling down on the connection between hockey and national identity. Continue reading →

Losing the world’s trust, and a lot of money too

“America is no longer a reliable ally to the world’s democracies; indeed, between Trump’s turn toward Putin and his talk of annexing Canada and Greenland, we don’t look like an ally at all. “

A Commentary by Paul Krugman, retired New York Times columnist and Nobel Prize winning economist

Posted March 18^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

President Joe Biden meets with Paul Krugman, economist and OpEd columnist for The New York Times,

Last week Mark Carney, having won the Liberal Party’s leadership election, became Canada’s Prime Minister. And it looks possible that he may hold that position for a while. Not long ago the Liberals seemed headed for an electoral wipeout, but they’ve seen an amazing surge in the polls.

The secret behind that surge is, of course, Donald Trump, who has not only imposed tariffs on Canada without any justification but keeps doubling down on his completely insane demand that Canada become the 51st state.

 Every time Trump or his minions repeat that demand, they strengthen Carney’s hand against (Canada’s )Pierre Poilievre, the Bitcoin-loving, Trumpy-sounding Conservative leader.Source: The Economist Continue reading →

To Ontario Premier Doug Ford – Rip up the GE-Hitachi US nuclear contract

A Call-Out from the Ontario Clean Air Alliance, a non-profit citizens group advocating for greener, safer sources of energy across the province

Posted March 17^th, 2025 on Niagara At Large

Premier Ford says he will tear up Ontario’s expensive contract for Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite service in the wake of Donald Trump’s unhinged attacks on our economy. And thanks to Doug Ford, American wine and bourbon is gone from our liquor stores.

He  has also ordered the Ontario Public Service to go through the province’s contracts “with a fine tooth comb” to find other U.S. contracts that can be axed. According to Premier Ford: “We won’t award contracts to people who enable and encourage economic attacks on our province and our country.” Continue reading →