Author Archives: dougdraper

New Bylaw Could Be Approved by Regional Council As Soon As This Coming Thursday, October 22^nd

Have You Had Your Say Yet? If You Care About Protecting and Preserving Our Trees, Here May Be Your Last Chance to Contact Your Regional Councillors and Mayors and Raise Your Voice Before This Revised Bylaw Is Passed

A News Release from Niagara’s Regional Government

Posted October 17^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – This past October 14^th,, Niagara Region’s Planning and Economic Development Committee put its stamp of approval on the Region’s updated Woodland Conservation By-law after a comprehensive review and public and stakeholder engagement process.

The updated by-law governs the protection and preservation of woodlands in Niagara, and recently underwent a complete review and public engagement process.

Several key changes were made to ensure the by-law meets the current and future needs of Niagara, and is consistent with Provincial legislation and best planning and management practices.

Continue reading →

Rino Mostacci, Commissioner of Planning and Development Services, to retire from Niagara Region on October 30th

A News Release from Niagara, Ontario’s Regional Government

Posted October 14^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Rino Mostacci is retiring out of a top job at Niagara Region at the end of this October that, according to 2019 records, rewarded him an annual salary of about $223,000 and more than $9,000 in benefits.

After six years of service as Commissioner of Planning and Development Services, Rino Mostacci announced that he will retire from Niagara Region, effective Oct. 30.

Mostacci joined Niagara Region as commissioner in September of 2014. Since that time, he has distinguished himself as a team-builder and visionary planner, driving innovation, supporting prosperity and relentlessly encouraging better urban outcomes.

Under Mostacci, the Region adopted an innovative model of district planning that has produced the Brock District Plan in Thorold, including the new International Plaza at Regional Headquarters, and the recently approved Glendale District Plan in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

Under his leadership, the Region has also been preparing a new Niagara Official Plan, a comprehensive land-use planning document that will guide Niagara’s growth for the next 30 years. Continue reading →

The Bell – Arriving in Niagara, Ontario this October 14^th -Has Been Making Its Way Across Ontario, Visiting Paramedic Services In Each Area That It Passes Through.

A News Release from Niagara’s Regional Government

Posted October 14^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – The Paramedic Memorial Bell honours the Paramedic Services line of duty deaths in Canada.

The “Remember the Fallen” ceremonies demonstrate that those who have been lost are Always Remembered. The Paramedic Memorial Bell is tolled an extra time to recognize post-traumatic stress disorder and suicides.

The annual Paramedic Memorial Bike Ride has been cancelled due to COVID-19, but the bell has been making its way across Ontario, visiting Paramedic Services in each area that it passes through.

The Paramedic Memorial Bell arrives in Niagara on Oct. 14 for this leg of the journey, hosted by Niagara EMS, CUPE 911 and the Niagara Paramedic Association. Continue reading →

Prince William speaks out on climate emergency

“If we don’t get our act together in the next 10 years, by 2030, it’s too late.” – Prince William of Britain

A Brief Foreword by Niagara At Large reporter and publisher Doug Draper, followed by a Full Offering of the Prince’s Remarks

Posted October 13th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

I am probably about as far away from being a fan of aristocrats or monarchs as one can be, and I’m certainly not predisposed to be impressed with all that much that aristocrats or monarchs do.

Having said that, how inspiring and heartening it was earlier this October to watch Prince William – the oldest son of Prince Charles and the late Princess Diana – make such a strong plea to all of us around the world to take real and effective action now to address a climate crisis that is already causing such hardship for life and countless trillions of dollars of damage and destruction around the world. Continue reading →

United Nation’s World Food Programme Awarded This Year’s Nobel Peace Prize

(Here is some good news that we could all use during these perilous times  – Doug Draper, Niagara At Large)

Posted October 13^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

A Statement by David Beasley, World Food Programme Executive Director, October 9th, 2020

UN World Food Programme Executive Director David Beasley

ROME, Italy – The awarding of the Nobel Peace Prize to the World Food Programme (WFP) is a humbling, moving recognition of the work of WFP staff who lay their lives on the line every day to bring food and assistance for close to 100 million hungry children, women and men across the world.

People whose lives are often brutally torn apart by instability, insecurity and conflict.

Every one of the 690 million hungry people in the world today has the right to live peacefully and without hunger.

Today (October 9th), the Norwegian Nobel Committee has turned the global spotlight on them and on the devastating consequences of conflict. Climate shocks and economic pressures have further compounded their plight. And now, a global pandemic with its brutal impact on economies and communities, is pushing millions more to the brink of starvation.

The Nobel Peace Prize is not WFP’s alone.

Continue reading →

“As you plan for Thanksgiving, I urge everyone to make responsible decisions that will keep you and your family safe.”    – Ontario Premier Doug Ford

A Statement from Ontario Premier Doug Ford

Posted October 10^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Ontario Premier Doug Ford

Ontario Premier Doug Ford has issued the following statement in advance of the Thanksgiving weekend:

“As we approach the Thanksgiving weekend, we have an opportunity to take time and reflect on what matters most as we all live through these unprecedented  times in our province.

I know Thanksgiving is normally a time when people get together with family and friends to give thanks and reconnect, but these aren’t normal times. This year, we will have to make adjustments in order to ensure everyone remains healthy and safe.

On the advice of the Chief Medical Officer of Health, it’s not enough to limit the size of Thanksgiving gatherings to 10 people or less. We must all do our part to keep gathering sizes small by sticking to our immediate households. Continue reading →

Ontario Hits Daily Record this this Friday, October 9^th of 939 COVID-19 Cases!

Do We Really Want to Suffer Through Another Crippling Lockdown?

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

Posted October 9^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Congratulations to all of you anti-maskers and virus spreaders out there.

Yes indeed. Here is to what appears to be fairly robust anti-mask coalition right here in Niagara, Ontario – call them ‘Hugs Over Masks’ or whatever you will.

I can’t think of them as anything other than a bunch of Trump-like screwballs and COVID-19 liberators.

Here also is to the enablers and supporters on the current Niagara Regional Council, including West Lincoln Mayor David Bylsma, West Lincoln Regional Councillor Albert Wittenveen, Welland Regional Councillors Leanna Villela and others, and to even others in in our Niagara Reginal Government who bestowed legitimacy on these wackos by allowing them to waste more than an hour and a half of public time spewing their anti-mask garbage at a Regional Council meeting this past September.

I thought of those nuts and their enablers again this October 9^th, when CBC posted the following news bulletin, and it simply reinforced my view that it is time for our Niagara Regional Council and those they allowed to spew their garbage for so long to CEASE AND DESIST.

The CBC report I am talking this October 9^th  began like this –

Continue reading →

Canada’s Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, and the Premier of Ontario, Doug Ford, announced this October 8^th their commitment to Ford Motor Company of Canada’s investment in its Oakville Assembly Complex.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau

“Companies like Ford are helping accelerate our transition to a low-carbon, clean-growth economy, which will help protect our environment, drive innovation, and create many good middle class job.”                                                                  – Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau

A News Release from the Government of Canada

Posted October 8^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

As we continue to address the health, social, and economic impacts of COVID-19, we are also working toward a sustainable and greener economic recovery that will create new jobs and opportunities for workers and businesses alike.

This is why we are supporting measures to accelerate our country’s clean energy transition, making zero-emission vehicles (ZEV) more affordable while investing in more charging stations across the country. This work will help ensure we can become a leading destination for the design, development, and manufacturing of the sustainable technologies of the future.

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, and the Premier of Ontario, Doug Ford, announced this October 8^th their commitment to Ford Motor Company of Canada’s investment in its Oakville Assembly Complex. Continue reading →

Ford Government “Welcomes Construction of Largest Renewable Natural Gas Plant in the Province and New Program for Enbridge Customers”

“Innovative Niagara facility will transform landfill waste into clean, affordable energy and Create Jobs”

News from the Government of Ontario

Posted October 7^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

NIAGARA FALLS — Ontario will soon be home to a new renewable natural gas (RNG) facility, which will create local jobs, stimulate regional economic development, while reducing greenhouse gas emissions in Canada.

The Niagara Falls Renewable Natural Gas plant will be the largest of its kind in Ontario and will generate enough clean renewable energy from landfill waste to heat 8,750 homes across the country and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 48,000 tonnes. Continue reading →

“How can this government continue to say their plan is working when someone in Niagara has to wait up to four days to just get a call back about a test?”                                                                           – St. Catharines NDP MPP Jennie Stevens

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

Posted October 7th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

St. Catharines NDP MPP Jennie Stevens

QUEEN’S PARK – NDP MPP Jennie Stevens (St. Catharines) has urged Doug Ford to stop trying to save money off the backs of Niagara residents, and fix the testing mess in Niagara, that’s left local residents waiting for up to four days just to get a call back from an assessment centre to make an appointment for a COVID-19 test.

Over the weekend, the time to get a call back from Niagara assessment centres has doubled from up to two days to up to four days. Stevens shared the experience of a St. Catharines resident who has struggled to book a test so she can visit her grandmother in hospital. Continue reading →

Day of Action Begins this Thursday, October 8^th in Town of Beamsville, Niagara, Ontario (SEE DETAILS BELOW)

A Call-Out from the Niagara Health Coalition and its umbrella group, the Ontario Health Coalition

Posted October 6th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

We are calling for:

• 1.     Immediate action by the Ford government to recruit & train staff, improve pay and working conditions and provide full-time work. The conditions of work are the conditions of care
• 2.     The Ford government to implement a minimum care standard of 4-hours of hands-on care per resident per day.
• 3.     Both our federal and provincial governments to end for-profit long-term care, starting by making Revera long-term care homes in Niagara public.

The funding and staffing announcements this week so far increase the money but the announced staffing is far less than needed and strings are not attached to ensure that care levels are actually increased. Continue reading →

When Will This Assault on Niagara’s Natural Heritage End?

Join the Online Public Meeting, This  Coming Tuesday, October 6th, at 4:30 p.m. – More Details Below

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

Posted October 5^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – Well here we are – going on five full years now – and the City of Niagara Falls, Ontario’s Mayor Jim Diodati’s is still hosting public meetings on one of a pet project, scorned by so many citizens across this Niagara region.

The pet project in question is a controversial plan to urbanize at least part of some sprawling green lands in a Niagara River watershed we have made pledge after pledge with our American neighbours to treat with care for present and future generations.

These lands, covering some 484-acres in the southwest end of Niagara Falls, have become known to many in Niagara and beyond our region’s borders as ‘Thundering Waters Forest’.

Why has Thundering Waters Forest become so well-known and such a topic of public concern. Continue reading →

Horwath Calls For Urgent Public Health Investment, Stronger Measures To Stop The Spread

“Niagara Public Health has re-assigned staff from programs like mental health to try to manage the caseload.” 

A News Release from the Office of Ontario Official Opposition and NDP Leader Andrea Horwath

Posted October 5th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Ontario NDP and Official Opposition Andrea Horwath

QUEEN’S PARK — As public health units warn that they’re overwhelmed, NDP Leader Andrea Horwath said the Ford government must not wait another moment to make massive investments in public health units, and implement stronger measures to stop the spread.

“Doug Ford’s attempt to save money by ignoring the second wave is costing Ontario much more than it should have,” said Horwath. “We now know that he ignored warnings about the second wave, denied requests from municipalities for public health support, and failed to strengthen protections in long-term care properly because he wanted to save a buck.” Continue reading →

“Niagara needs more personal support workers. … Through this investment, our government is helping hard-working people in Niagara train for this viable and important career path.”             – Ontario Government and Niagara West MPP Sam Oosterhoff

A News Release from the Office of Ontario Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development Monte McNaughton

Posted October 5^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

ST. CATHARINES, Niagara – The Ontario government has invested $500,000 to help 92 Niagara-area residents train for careers as personal support workers (PSWs).

This training is helping people from all walks of life gain the skills they need to pursue careers providing care and comfort for those living in long-term care homes or at home with an illness or injury.

The announcement was made (this October 5^th)  by Monte McNaughton, Minister of Labour, Training and Skills Development, at Lifetime Learning, the District School Board of Niagara adult education centre running the training program. Continue reading →

All These Characters Are  Doing Through Their Selfish Words and Conduct is Liberating the COVID-19 Virus

A Commentary by Niagara At Large reporter and commentator Doug Draper

Posted October 4rth, 2020 on Niagara At Large

How disturbing it was to log on to a general meeting of Niagara Regional Council this past September 17^th and see some seven or eight residents from across the region, spouting just about every screwball argument out there against wearing masks as a protective measure during aCOVID-19 pandemic that is continuing to cause so much sickness and death, as well as emotional and economic pain.

Something close to an hour and a half of our Regional Council’s time was taken up listening to this bunch question everything from the effectiveness of face coverings and whether this virus constitutes a heath emergency at all, to a spouting of libertarian gibberish about what a gross assault mask by-laws are on our individual freedoms.

Freedom is Essential? So is your life and the lives of others! A recent anti-mask protest in the Toronto area, where daily COVID-19 cases are spiking back to spring-time levels.

About the only thing missing in the so-called “presentations” these people delivered to our elected representatives was a suggestion that we drink bleach or shoot up Lysol.

My first thought as I listened to all of this Trump-like nonsense was why is our Regional Council offering any more time to this than most of us would to some nut bar yelling this stuff from a soapbox in a park?

What’s on the agenda for the next council meeting? Another seven or eight characters still trying to convince the world that smoking cigarettes doesn’t cause lung cancer?

Upon asking these questions to a representative of the Region’s council, I was told that according to the rules in place for delegations, these citizens had a right to a maximum of 10 minutes each to address councillors. Continue reading →

When Is Niagara, Ontario Going To Do What Our American Neighbours Have Done – Honour Those Who Have Worked to Restore the Niagara River to Environmental Health with a Global ‘Ramsar’ Designation

Why do we still not have elected leaders and public bodies on the Niagara, Ontario side of the Niagara River willing to do this?

A Commentary by Jocelyn Baker, a Niagara, Ontario resident and Canadian Co-chair, Niagara River Ramsar Designation Binational Steering Committee, with a Foreword by Niagara At Large reporter and publisher Doug Draper

Posted October 3rd, 2020 on Niagara At Large

A Foreword by Doug Draper –

A year ago this October 3rd, our U.S. neighbours assembled near the mist of the Horseshoe and American Falls in Niagara Falls, New York to celebrate the designation of their side of the Niagara River corridor as a “Wetland of International Importance’ under a ‘Ramsar Convention’ signed in 1971 by 170 member nations around the world, including Canada.

Western New York area C-Chair of the Niagara River Ramsar Designation Binational Steering CommiteeJajean-Rose Burney, with his Canadian counterpart and Niagara, Ontario resident Jocelyn Baker, celebrating an international designation for the American side of the Niagara River, a year ago this October 3rd. After years of trying, we still can’t get this done on the Ontario side. What an embarrassment. What a disgrace!

Since the signing of the Ramsar designation almost 50 years ago, more than 2,300 sites around the globe, known for their natural beauty and rich biodiversity, have been designated as wetlands of international importance.

On October 3rd of last year, a large assembly of New Yorkers, including citizens, municipal leaders, state and federal leaders, and leaders of academic institutions on the American side of the border, came together to celebrate a Ramsar designation for their side of the Niagara River corridor. Continue reading →

A Statement by Buffalo, New York-area Democratic Congressman Brian Higgins,  in Response to the U.S. President & First Lady Contracting COVID-19

Posted October 2^nd, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Brian Higgins, U.S. Congressman (Democrat) for the Buffalo, New York area

Buffalo, New York – “News that the President and First Lady have tested positive for COVID-19 is an urgent reminder that everyone is vulnerable to this disease. While we wish the first couple a speedy recovery, these results should be a wake-up call to the Administration and an urgent reminder that we all must take this virus seriously.

“The President is the Commander in Chief of our armed forces at home and around the world. That his actions and those in his inner circle could have made such a transmission event possible should be a cause for concern to our national security.”

“Wearing a mask, adhering to social distancing guidelines, and following the advice of medical experts and scientists is not political; its common sense and lifesaving. Continue reading →

“Over the past few months, women – and in particular low-income women – have been hit hardest by the global COVID-19 pandemic. Many have served bravely on the frontlines, risking their health to provide essential care and services to Canadians.” – Prime Minister Justin Trudeau

A Statement on Women’s History Month from Canada’s Prime Minister

Posted October 1st, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Ottawa, Ontario – The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, (this October 1^st) issued the following statement for Women’s History Month:

“Women have contributed enormously to making Canada the country we know today. During Women’s History Month, we celebrate the significant achievements of women and girls, but also reflect on the work still to be done so that they can all reach their full potential.

“This year’s theme – Because of You – honours the trailblazers, activists, and advocates who work to advance gender equality and the well-being of women and girls, in all their diversity, here in Canada and around the world. Continue reading →

Province of Ontario Marks Orange Shirt Day – Wednesday September 30^th, 2020

A Statement from Greg Rickford, Ontario’s Minister of Indigenous Affairs,

Posted September 30^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

TORONTO — This September 30th, Greg Rickford, Minister of Indigenous Affairs, issued the following statement on Orange Shirt Day:

“Today, we acknowledge the long-lasting, multi-generational impact of the residential school system on Indigenous communities, our province and our country. For more than 100 years, Indigenous children across Canada were removed from their families and forced to attend residential schools, where they were stripped of their language and culture. Continue reading →

Key Niagara Region Committee Meeting Coming – This October 14^th at 1 P.M. – on Proposed By-Law for Protecting and Preserving Trees in our Region

Find Out Below How You Can Have Your Say

A Brief Commentary by Doug Draper at Niagara At Large, followed by a Notice from Niagara’s Regional Government

Posted September 29^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

More than a decade has passed since Niagara’s Regional Government last updated its tree protection by-law, and many Niagara citizens have made it clear, in one way or another, that a revised by-law for better protecting what wooded areas Niagara has left is long overdue.

Over past decade, there have been numerous cases of trees being taken out with chainsaws or bulldozers. There would be an outcry from citizens who were often told that the laws in place for protecting trees do little or nothing to charge those who cut them down. Continue reading →

News from the Town of Lincoln

Posted September 29^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Lincoln, Ontario – As part of Lincoln’s celebratory 50^th anniversary year, 50 trees will be planted in several parks throughout the Town.

Beautification and decoration of public spaces helps to instill a sense of civic pride and support community belonging. Town staff work to beautify the public realm and animate spaces through year-round seasonal plantings and decorations.

To further support these beautification efforts, there is opportunity to commemorate the Town’s 50th anniversary in 2020 by installing legacy beautification pieces such as floral displays and new trees.

Tree planting locations will include:

Continue reading →

“We ask that the Government of Ontario commit to greater transparency in dealing with the business community and the public at this very difficult time.”                                                                   – the Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce, Niagara, Ontario’s large organization representing  members of the region’s business community

A News Release from the Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce

Posted September 28^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Chamber asks Ontario government for more transparency on its decision making  around this virus

Niagara, Ontario – On September 25th, the Government of Ontario announced immediate changes applying additional measures and restrictions to restaurants, bars and other food and drink establishments.

The government stated that the decision was made in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, but did not reveal what the nature of that consultation was, who recommended the changes, who decided to legislate the changes, and what data that decision was based upon.

These changes will negatively impact many businesses which are already struggling to survive under the pressure of the pandemic. The GNCC does not prioritize business over public health, but simply asks that decisions which harm businesses include a clear and tangible demonstration of benefit to public health, with data that include projections of cases with and without the measure.

The GNCC offered similar suggestions when Niagara was not among the regions selected to move to Stage 2 of the provincial re-opening. While we respect the decision of the government and encourage all of our members to comply with legislation, the government’s case would be better-made if the data they were basing their decisions on, and the methods by which they reached them, were publicly available.

We ask that the Government of Ontario commit to greater transparency in dealing with the business community and the public at this very difficult time.

The Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce is the largest business organization in Niagara and the third-largest Chamber of Commerce in Ontario, with 1,600 members representing 50,000 employees.

More information on the GNCC is available at gncc.ca

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

As COVID-19 Infections Hit The Highest-Ever Daily Count In Ontario – Now A Full 700 a Day –  NDP Leader Andrea Horwath Said It’s Clear Doug Ford’s So-Called Plan Isn’t Working

A Statement from Ontario Official Opposition and NDP Leader Andrea Horwath

Posted September 28^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Ontario Official Opposition and NDP Leader Andrea Horwath

QUEEN’S PARK, Ontario — On the day (this September 28thy) that COVID-19 infections hit the highest-ever daily count in Ontario, NDP Leader Andrea Horwath said it’s clear Doug Ford’s incomplete, weeks-late so-called plan isn’t working — and she urged the government to make the investments needed to try to get ahead of the second wave, now.

“The Ford government is doing the bare minimum in order to save a buck, and it’s not working,” said Horwath.

“Parents are worried about their kids as COVID-19 cases climb in schools, families are worried about their grandparents as COVID-19 reignites in long-term care homes, and tens of thousands of people are waiting anxiously in self-isolation for their test results because of a backlog. It’s clear Doug Ford’s late, incomplete, so-called plan for the second wave isn’t working.” Continue reading →

Canada’s PM Shares Words with UN about Climate Crisis That Many Wish He Would Live Up To At Home

Trudeau May Have One More Chance to Prove Himself a Leader on the Climate Front

A Commentary by Niagara At Large reporter and publisher           Doug Draper

Posted September 26^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Canada’s Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau

I can’t count the number of times I have had friends from the United States – friends who are sick to their stomachs over Trump and all the damage he continues to do – say to me; ‘Any chance we can switch leaders with you? We really like Justin Trudeau.”

I understand what my American friends are saying, and I would just love it if I could like our Canadian prime minister as much as they do too.

Problem is that Justin Trudeau says an awful lot of things that, to liberal, progressive-minded people at least, sound good, then he turns around and either does little or nothing, or he allows he allows ideas from past federal governments or he comes up with ideas of his own that betray the good words he is speaking.

Take the climate crisis that is already taking such a costly toll on Canada and other regions around the world. Continue reading →

“I look forward to continuing to faithfully represent and actively advocate for the needs and concerns of families and job creators in Niagara West at Queen’s Park.”                                                         – Niagara West MPP Sam Oosterhoff 

Next Ontario Election is Now Just Twenty Months Away

News from Ontario’s Progressive Conservative Constituency Association for Niagara West

Posted September 27^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

BEAMSVILLE in Niagara, Ontario – Sam Oosterhoff, MPP for Niagara West, has been formally acclaimed as the riding’s Progressive Conservative candidate leading into the next provincial general election.

In an online Zoom Meeting, Saturday, chaired by riding president, Tony Joosse, the executive and membership of the Progressive Conservative Constituency

Association of Niagara West endorsed the acclamation.

“On behalf of the Progressive Conservative Constituency Association of Niagara West, Provincial Nominations Committee and our great Premier, Doug Ford, I am pleased to declare and announce our dedicated and hardworking MPP, Sam Oosterhoff, as theOntario PC Partycandidate for the upcoming general election,” said Joosse. Continue reading →

Plan for Planting In The Fall, Plant Trees In The Spring – Now Is The Time To Advance A Canada-Wide Tree Planting Strategy

“With our dedicated partners, we already plant about three million trees a year from coast to coast in British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, Nova Scotia, Quebec, and Newfoundland and Labrador.”                                                                                                        – Forests Ontario and Forest Recovery Canada

An Opinion Piece by Rob Keen, Registered Professional Forester and CEO of Forests Ontario and Forest Recovery Canada

Posted September 25^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

As Canadians, we need to ask ourselves this question – how do we build upon and deploy large-scale tree planting efforts such as the Two Billion Tree Program envisioned by Prime Minster Trudeau?

We are not alone with this idea. According to ETH Zurich University, the Food and Agriculture Organization and the United Nations, planting one trillion trees around the world may be one of the most effective ways to combat climate change impacts.

To respond to our moral and global responsibilities, and since Canada is able to contribute to the world’s growing need for trees and new forests, I say it is time we build on the Prime Minister’s visionary Two Billon Tree promise announced near Belleville last September with a climate focused national tree planting strategy. Continue reading →

“Your opinion matters. Please take the time to help shape the 2021 budget process by participating in this short survey (linked in the post below).”                                                                                       – Niagara Regional Chair Jim Bradley

An Invite to All Niagara Citizens from Niagara’s Regional Government

Posted September 25^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Work to determine Niagara Region’s 2021 budget is underway. Through the budget  process, choices are made to ensure the Region continues to provide services at a level that residents expect.

The COVID-19 pandemic has hit our community hard. Your Regional government wants to learn more about which municipal services you value and believe should remain a priority during this challenging time. Continue reading →

“Canada has been promising climate action for years now, yet we continue to fall further behind in meeting our existing targets. There is still no vision for how Canada gets off fossil fuels or transforms our economy and energy system.”                                                    – Tim Gray, Environmental Defence Canada

A Statement from Tim Gray, Executive Director of Environmental Defence

Posted September 24^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has always, at least, talked a good game on fighting the global climate emergency

Toronto, Ontario – We are glad to see the government reaffirm its commitment to the environment and climate change in the Speech from the Throne.

In particular, we welcome the promise to ban harmful single-use plastics next year and ensure more plastic is recycled, and the commitment to modernize the two-decade old toxics and pollution prevention law, the Canadian Environmental Protection Act .

We’re likewise happy to see commitments to immediately bring forward a plan to exceed Canada’s 2030 climate goal and legislate Canada’s goal of net-zero emissions by 2050.

We are also pleased to see the promise to introduce legislation to implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples before the end of this year. Continue reading →

“As part of our plan to ensure that we are ready for future waves of COVID-19, our government is working with pharmacies to help expand testing for Ontarians,”                                                         – Ontario Health Minister Christine Elliott

News from the Ontario Government

Posted September 24^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Ontario government is providing people with convenient and timely access to free COVID-19 testing at pharmacies in the province. As of Friday, up to 60 pharmacies in Ontario will begin offering testing by appointment only, with further locations coming online in the coming weeks. This initiative will expand testing capacity well beyond the province’s 150 assessment centres.

Details were provided today by Premier Doug Ford and Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health.

“We rely on our pharmacists for our flu shots, prescriptions, and important health advice for ourselves and our families. It makes sense to engage them as key partners in delivering more COVID-19 testing,” said Premier Ford. Continue reading →

Buffalo, N.Y. Area Congressman Brian Higgins Strongly Opposes Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Rule Rollback Allowing Release of Toxic Metals Into Great Lakes and Waterways

Urges a Re-doubling of Efforts to Prioritize the Long-term Sustainability of the Environment

This Trump Rollback Affects Canadians Who Depend on Great Lakes Water for Our Survival Too!

A News Release from the Buffalo, New York Office of U.S. Congressman Brian Higgins

Posted September 23rd, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Our shared Great Lakes. They only remain healthy and safe, if all governments in Canada and the United States work together to protect them.

Buffalo, New York – Congressman Brian Higgins (Democrat) spoke on the House floor to strongly oppose the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)’s recent rule rollback allowing the release of toxic metals into our nation’s Great Lakes and waterways, and urged colleagues to re-double their efforts to prioritize the long-term sustainability of the environment.

Higgins said “For decades, communities across Western New York have been working together to bring back waterways, like the Buffalo River, that were once declared ecologically dead due to unchecked industrial pollution.” Continue reading →

Here Is Something Positive We Can All Do to Add More Green to our Planet

An Invite to All form the Niagara Native Gardening Club and Ontariogreen, in partnership with the Town of Lincoln

Posted September 23^rd, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – Fall is the perfect time to add trees and shrubs to your garden.

To help you pick a plant that will not only provide you with the shade and beauty you want, but that will also benefit our local environment, the Niagara Native Gardening Club and Ontariogreen, in partnership with the Town of Lincoln, is holding our Second Annual Native Tree and Shrub sale.

There will be more than a dozen species to choose from. A list of the trees and shrubs available, along with information about their features, size, soil requirements etc. is available here: http://www.ontariogreen.ca/tree-sale.html Payment for your tree and shrub order can be securely online through Paypal, Debit or Credit Card. Continue reading →

“There’s so much more that could be done to make people better off right now.” – a statement by Ontario NDP Official Opposition Leader Andrea Horwath as daily COVID-19 case counts in Niagara rise dangerous close to 500

A News Release from Ontario’s New Democratic Party

Posted September 22^nd, 2020 on Niagara At Large

QUEEN’S PARK — NDP Leader Andrea Horwath said Tuesday that Ontario is in desperate need of action to help Ontario cope with the second wave of COVID-19 infections.

“Yet again (this September 22^nd), (Ontario Premier Doug) Ford didn’t announce any changes to make people safer,” said Horwath.

“For people with loved ones in long-term care, for everyone waiting hours in lines for a COVID-19 test, and for parents whose child is stuffed in a class of 30 kids, Doug Ford is telling them that there are no changes coming to help them.” Continue reading →

From the New York State Governor’s Office in Albany, N.Y.

Posted September 21^st, 2020 on Niagara At Large

A Statement by NYS Governor Andrew Cuomo –

New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo

“On Friday (September 18^th) , we were devastated to learn that Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg had passed away. Justice Ginsburg was a daughter of Brooklyn and her life was a testament to the true meaning of New York Tough — accomplishment, tenacity, conviction, all coupled with respect, grace and dignity.

“As an advocate, litigator, professor and judge, Justice Ginsburg was a singular force for justice throughout her extraordinary career, particularly in her relentless fight for gender equality. New York will honour her life and legacy with a statue in Brooklyn.

“This statue will serve as a physical reminder of Justice Ginsburg’s monumental contributions to American jurisprudence and as an inspiration to us all.”

A  Footnote from Niagara At Large publisher Doug Draper –

Now that is how you pay tribute to one of your great citizens – not with the disgusting garbage coming out of the mouths of Trump and his cult.

To read a commentary I wrote and posted earlier this September 21^st on the Trump crowd’s shameful response to the death of this great humanitarian and Supreme Court justice, click on – https://niagaraatlarge.com/2020/09/21/trumpies-already-dancing-on-the-great-justice-ginsburgs-grave/

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

            “Fill that seat! Fill that seat! Fill that seat!”                          – a chant from the masses at a Trump rally on September 19^th, not 24 hours after the death of  U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg

A Commentary by Niagara At Large reporter and publisher Doug Draper

Posted September 21^st, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Trump’s cult-like band of worshipers – many of them evangelical Christians – could not seem to wait for 24 hours following the death of the great U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg before pressing to have her seat filled with a judge, singularly bent on saving fetus at any cost to anything or anyone else.

The late American satirist and social critic George Carlin could not have been more right about these single-issue fanatics when he put it this way –

“Boy, these conservatives are really something, aren’t they? They’re all in favour of the unborn. They will do anything for the unborn. But once you’re born, you’re on your own,” said Carlin. Continue reading →

“Together with the support of the community The Alzheimer Society will provide help for today and hope for tomorrow.”

News from the Alzheimer Society of Niagara Region

Posted September 21^st, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – There are 10,524 people living with progressive dementia in Niagara, with the most common being Alzheimer’s disease. Anyone may develop dementia and there is no cure.

COVID-19 is significantly impacting persons living with dementia and their care partners. People living with dementia already face deep stigmatization, and the isolation they live with every day has become so much worse. 

In Ontario, nine out of 10 residents in long term care have some form of cognitive impairment, 2/3rds with dementia – and 64.6% of all COVID-19 deaths in Ontario (as of September 17)) are among long-term care residents. Continue reading →

“It’s now even easier to learn about solid waste management in our community with our improved mobile app, Niagara Region Waste, and online tools.”                                                                               – Jennifer Mazurek, Waste Management Program Manager, Niagara Region

News from Niagara’s Regional Government

Posted September 20^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – Niagara Region has launched a new waste management app, called Niagara Region Waste, which makes it even easier for residents to obtain current information about waste and recycling collection programs.

Residents can download the mobile app forApple orAndroid smartphones. In the mobile app, you will find the garbage/recycling collection schedule specific to your house address, with the ability to sign up and receive a collection day reminder. As part of signing up for a reminder, you will also receive updates in case of collection changes or delays. Continue reading →

“Custodians will complete a deep cleaning of Eastdale Secondary School this weekend. Additionally, the school community will continue to be vigilant with preventative COVID-19 practices.”

A Media  Advisory from the District School Board of Niagara

Posted September 19^th, 2020 in Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – Niagara Region Public Health (NRPH) has advised the District School Board of Niagara that an individual at Eastdale Secondary School has tested positive for COVID-19. For privacy reasons, the identity of the individual will not be shared.

On Monday, September 21, a Public Health Inspector and a Public Health Nurse from NRPH will visit the school.

Eastdale Secondary School and the District School Board of Niagara will work collaboratively with Niagara Region Public Health to ensure the school meets all the health and safety protocols required.  Continue reading →