Author Archives: dougdraper

The Sierra Club Writers Group of Western New York Encourages You to Participate, on Monday, November 18th, 2019 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the University of Buffalo South Campus Hayes Hall in Buffalo, New York

A Call-Out from the Sierra Club and the Citizens Regional Transit Corporation in the Buffalo/Western New York area

Posted November 13th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

We are reaching out to invite you to a local roundtable discussion regarding Sierra Club’s Transforming Transportation (https://my-geo.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=35f78c77c3fbd6dbbeeebe6ac&id=bd3902bba7&e=1e416ef83d) report on November 18th from 10:30am – 12:30pm at UB Hayes Hall 402. 

This year, New York passed the nation’s most ambitious climate legislation which will phase out fossil fuels in our economy by 2050. Over 1/3rd of our greenhouse gas emissions come from the transportation sector. Continue reading →

And How Many More Trees Are Going to Have to Fall in Forests in Niagara Before We Get a Stronger                    Tree Protection Bylaw in this Region?

A Brief Commentary by Doug Draper 

Posted November 13^th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

‘Cut and move on
Cut and move on
Take out trees
Take out wildlife at a rate of species every single day.’

• Lyric’s from Bruce Cockburn’s song ‘When a Tree Falls in the Forest’

Canadian-born singer/songwriter Bruce Cockburn performed a sold-out concert at the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre in St. Catharines this October and one of the songs he sang was If A Tree Falls in the Forest.

As Cockburn performed the song, members of the audience joined him in singing the chorus; “If a tree falls in the forest, does anybody hear?”

Last year, a number of trees were sawed down or bulldozed out of the way in forests in Niagara Falls and Fort Erie, and on the property of a historic old estate in Niagara-on-the-Lake , and many people heard.

A tree taken down in Waverly Woods in Fort Erie last year, much to the chagrin of residents in the community, fighting to keep the woods free of urban development.

They not only heard and witnessed the destruction themselves, they made angry calls to the powers that be in government, only to be told, for the most part,  that the regional government’s current tree protection bylaw is not strong enough to do anything of any real substance about it. Continue reading →

Jobs in Manufacturing, Health Care Hit Hardest

A News Release from Ontario’s NDP and Official Opposition Party

Posted November 12th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

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

Ontario Premier Doug Ford and his Conservatives have declared the province “open for business.” Okay, so why aren’t there more full-time jobs and living wages?

Did I miss hearing something in all of the “open for business” sermons coming out of Ontario Premier Doug Ford and his Conservatives over the past 16 months?

Without ever showing Ontarians any details or substantive plans or policies in the run-up to the June 2018 provincial election, Ford and company told us  they were going to make Ontario “open for business” by cutting red tape (code for tearing up labour safety, building code, planning and environmental rules and regulations) and cutting taxes for “job creators,” which is a totally misleading term the radical right and their supporters use for any business that donates money to their party.

And, oh yes, Ford and his “government for the people” crusaders followed through on a promise to cap the minimum wage at a rate that falls significantly below what has been calculated by Poverty Reduction Networks across Ontario, including Niagara’s network, to be a living hourly wage in most communities because as Ford and his minions put it, anything higher than a capped down poverty wage is “a job killer.” Continue reading →

A Statement from Phil Wachel, President of Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), Locaal 4207, shared with Niagara At Large

Posted November 11th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

“In light of recent events that have occurred regarding racist, derogatory statements that have gone as far as call for violence against Indigenous Peoples on behalf of NAFA’s Facebook page, we, CUPE Local 4207, express our support of the traditional deer harvest that is part of inherent and treaty rights of Indigenous Peoples at Short Hills Provincial Park.

“Though NAfA (Niagara Action for Animals) has issued what they refer to as an ‘apology’, this once again reverses the onus in saying that it is one’s own fault for being offended.  

“The general tenor of the posts to their Facebook page as well as the administrators’ response is not acceptable.  Acts of colonial violence, racism and intolerance must not be ignored and treated with the utmost seriousness. 

“Everyone has the right to protest and express an opinion.  Protesting only in an area where Indigenous Peoples conduct a traditional harvest, calling on members of NAFA to commit acts of violence, is perpetuating colonial racism and violence against Indigenous Peoples.

“We support inherent and treaty rights, and denounce any and all acts of violence.”

• Phil Wachel, President

Canadian Union of Public Employees local 4207, Co-host of the Indigenous Rights Conference

1812 Sir Isaac Brock Brock Way, MC C 402, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1

Brock University

To read a piece Niagara At Large posted earlier this November 11th on the upcoming Indigenous Rights Conference on Saturday, November 16th click on https://niagaraatlarge.com/2019/11/11/you-are-invited-to-an-indigenous-rights-conference/

To read a statement of regret from Niagara Action for Animals and the Short Hills Wildlife Alliance, posted on Niagara At Large on November 8th, click on – https://niagaraatlarge.com/2019/11/08/short-hills-deer-hunt-protesters-offer-regrets-for-words-perceived-to-be-offensive-on-facebook-page/

To read Niagara At Large journalist Doug Draper’s commentary on this disturbing affair, click on – https://niagaraatlarge.com/2019/11/07/racist-words-disgrace-short-hills-deer-hunt-protesters-and-their-cause/ .

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 reminder that we only post comments by individuals who also share their first and last names.

For More News And Commentary From Niagara At Large – An independent, alternative voice for our  Greater Bi-National Niagara Region – Become A Regular Visitor And Subscriber To NAL At Www.Niagaraatlarge.Com .

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

On Saturday, November 16th, 2019 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. at Brock University’s Marilyn I.Walker School of the Fine and Performing Arts in downtown St. Catharines, Ontario

A News Release form the Supporters of the Haudenosaunee Right to Hunt

Posted November 11^th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

St Catharines, Ontario – The Supporters of Haudenosaunee Right to Hunt are pleased to release the schedule for their upcoming Indigenous Rights Conference (in St. Catharines/Niagara).

The conference isa spectacular interdisciplinary program featuring Indigenous women scholars who look across multiple Indigenous Rights issues.

Mayor Walter Sendzik and the Strong Water Women, Niagara Women’s Drum Group, will help to open theconference.

It will be held Saturday November 16, 2019 from 9:00 am until 8:00 pm. at Brock University’s Marilyn I. Walker School of Fine and Performing Arts, 15 Artists’ Common, downtown St. Catharines in Niagara, Ontario.

Michele-Elise Burnett

Michele–Elise Burnett, Celebration of Nations Artistic Director and Brock University’s Aboriginal Education Council Co-Chair explains why it was important to her that Celebration of Nations partner with the Indigenous Rights Conference:

“By having our rights recognized and respected shows the Two Row Collaboration in action! There is a positive Indigenous momentum happening in Niagara. Celeste and Jodielynn [Co-Founders of The Supporters of Haudenosaunee Right to Hunt] are true warriors set on a mission to education the public of our inherent right to hunt and what it means to our peoples and our future generations.” Continue reading →

Wednesday, November 13th at 8 p.m. at the  St. Catharines Central Library. The Forum is open to all and  Free of Charge

Posted November 11^th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

A Brief Foreword Note from NAL publisher Doug Draper –

With all of the recent discussion and controversy over some racist language aimed at Indigenous people who participate in an annual deer hunt in Short Hills Provincial Park in Niagara, this public forum, organized before that troubling episode occurred, could not be more timely and important.

So try, if you can, to attend this forum if you can and join in a discussion aimed at making our communities more welcome and peaceful for everyone.

On Wednesday November 13th , at 8 p.m. the  Niagara District Council of Women will hold a public forum on racism, discrimination and oppression.

Now here is News about the Public Forum from the Niagara District Council of Women – 

Niagara is not immune to racism, discrimination and oppression – a most  disturbing  fact  recognized by Niagara Regional Councillors as they voted recently  to join the Canada-wide  Coalition of Inclusive Municipalities , such as Hamilton, London and Windsor.

Niagara District Council of Women, strongly supports this action , and as  its President, Gracia Janes notes:  “  From  press reports of an  ever-growing platform of hateful messages on the internet and   graffiti  on private fences, to school yard bullying and  personal experiences , this blight is now clearly in the public’s view and needs remedying quickly and strongly.”

Forum panelists  – Nona Bader, of the  Niagara Anti-Racism Association, Laura Ip, Niagara Regional Councillor, Nyarayi Kapisavanhu, ED Tools of Empowerment for Success, and Saleh Wazirudden, Chair  City of St. Catharines’ Anti-Racism Committee have experienced, and /or closely observed  racism, discrimination and oppression, and  are working together to counter this growing blight and  to create an inclusive  society here in Niagara.

For more information on the very good community work of the Niagara District Council of Women, click on – http://ndcw.ca/ .

For an earlier post on this event, click on – https://niagaraatlarge.com/2019/10/31/you-are-invited-to-a-public-forum-on-racism-discrimination-and-oppression-in-our-niagara-region/

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 reminder that we only post comments by individuals who also share their first and last names.

For More News And Commentary From Niagara At Large – An independent, alternative voice for 0ur   Greater Bi-National Niagara Region – Become A Regular Visitor And Subscriber To NAL At Www.Niagaraatlarge.Com .

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

A Statement by the Canada’s Prime Minister on Remembrance Day 

Posted November 11th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

Canadian soldiers, about to assualt the beaches of Normandy, France, D-Day, June 6, 1944

Ottawa, Ontario –  The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on Remembrance Day:

“Today, we come together to honour the brave Canadians in uniform who have served our country throughout our history. They’ve built peace. They’ve defended democracy. And they’ve enabled countless people to live in freedom – at home and around the world.

“Remembrance Day <https://www.veterans.gc.ca/eng/remembrance> was first held in 1919 on the first anniversary of the armistice agreement that ended the First World War. Continue reading →

November 9^th, 1989, the Day the Berlin Wall was Demolished in a Spirit of Peace and Celebration

A Brief Comment by Doug Draper

Posted November 9th, 2019 

“If you are not moving forward, you are moving backward.”
― Mikhail Gorbachev

Many of us know that Americans like to give their president at the time – that former B-movie actor  and television commercial pitchman Ronald Reagan – much of the credit for the Berlin Wall coming down.

Mikhail Gorbachev, who chose to stand back and let the wall come tumbling down.

I may get myself in trouble for saying this, but I think a lot of  credit also has to go to courageous freedom fighters like union organizer and later to become Nobel Peace Prize laureate Lech Walesa of Poland, and to the last leader of the Soviet Union, Mikhail Gorbachev who, rather than unleash troops and tanks, just let it be.

Let’s be fair and give the proper amount of credit where credit is due.

It always kind of seemed to at least some of us at the time that Gorbachev wanted to put an end to the dark decades of the Cold War and Soviet oppression too.

So the Berlin Wall tumbled in a celebration of peace and now we have another world leader chomping at the bit to build another one along his country’s southern border.

To view some of that mind-blowing footage many watched on television at the time, click on the screen below –

Meanwhile, closer to home in 2019, at the border intersecting the world’s largest supply of what we hope will be healthy, fresh water for generations to come –

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 reminder that we only post comments by individuals who also share their first and last names.

For More News And Commentary From Niagara At Large – An independent, alternative voice for our  Greater Bi-National Niagara Region – Become A Regular Visitor And Subscriber To NAL At Www.Niagaraatlarge.Com

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

Protesters Say They “sincerely regret that comments were posted on NAfA’s (Niagara Action for Animal’s) Facebook page that were perceived to be hateful, threatening and/or discriminatory in any way, and that these comments were not  immediately called out.”

A Statement from Niagara Action for Animals (NAfA) and Short Hills Wildlife Alliance (SHWA)

Posted November 8^th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

A Brief Foreword by Doug Draper at Niagara At Large –

Niagara Action for Animals (NAfA) and the Short Hills Wildlife Alliance (SHWA) issued the following statement this November 7^th, a day after reports appeared in Niagara daily newspapers about vile words and comments appearing on NAfA’s Facebook page.

Deer hunt opponents gather for protest at Short Hills Provincial Park in Niaara, Ontario

The ugly words were aimed at members of the Indigenous community who, with the blessing now of two Ontario governments (the former Liberals and now Doug Ford’s Conservatives) exercise their Aboriginal Treaty rights each year around this time to hunt deer for a few days in Short Hills Provincial Park in Niagara. Continue reading →

NDP fights Ford’s attempt to give himself the power to pass bills even faster

His government may have been elected with significantly less than half the popular vote, and polls may show that his own popularity is in the toilet, but that doesn’t seem to be stopping Doug Ford from wanting to run Ontario as if he were anointed King.

A News Release from Ontario’s New Democratic Party

Posted November 8^th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

Like his carbon-loving, radical right kindred spirit to the south, Doug Ford (right) appears to want to govern the way Donald Trump does and sign executive orders rather than put his ideas through a full and fair democratic process

QUEEN’S PARK – The NDP will oppose a package of changes the Doug Ford government is planning to push through – changes that would allow Ford to introduce and pass a bill even faster, with even less public input.

“As it is, Doug Ford has done his best to prevent the people of Ontario from having any opportunity to weigh in on changes that impact them,” said NDP House Leader Gilles Bisson. “With Doug Ford, we see a lot of backroom deals cooked up with insiders, and very little consultation with everyday Ontarians.

“Now, the system that prevents much consultation is about to go from bad to worse.” Continue reading →

All Are Welcome – Begin at 10:45 a.m. on Monday, November 11^th at Brock’s Ian Beddis Gymnasium (Walker Complex) in St. Catharines, Ontario

Posted November 8^th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – On Monday, Nov. 11, Brock University is hosting a Remembrance Day gathering in the Ian Beddis Gymnasium (Walker Complex) beginning at 10:45 a.m.

This is the first time in three years Brock is hosting a Remembrance Day gathering as it hasn’t fallen on a weekday since 2016.

The event will include Aboriginal drumming, a two-minute moment of silence at 11 a.m., the singing of O Canada, placing of the wreaths, and various readings of Remembrance Day poems, including Laurence Binyon’s For the Fallen and John McCrae’s In Flanders Fields. Continue reading →

One of the protest signs that have greeted Indigenous hunters at Short Hills Park

Protesters Could Do More For Wildlife Working Together with Indigenous Community – But it May Be Too Late for that Now

A Group That Has Done A Lot of Good Work for Animals May Have Drowned Itself  in a Cesspool of Hateful Words

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

Posted November 7^th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

How sad and sickening this all is! But let me start by saying this.

When I first heard, seven or eight years ago, that Ontario’s Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) was going to allow a “controlled hunt” for deer, or what the ministry sometimes called a “harvest,” in Short Hills Provincial Park, I was a bit shocked.

Deer in Short Hills Provincial Park sprawling through the borders of St. Catharines, Thorold and Pelham. File photo by Dan Wilson

As a kid growing up in the northwest end of Welland, my friends and I would bike out to the Short Hills on hot summer days and we were often told by our elders to tread lightly in or around the park because it was a “nature sanctuary.”

We were also warned not to pick any of the white trilliums, which were scattered in bunches beneath the park’s tree canopy, because picking them was illegal, which may or may not have been true.

Nevertheless, the message my friends and I grew up with was clear.  Short Hills was a protected area for wildlife and we were to walk its paths with the lightest possible footprints and leave everything living in it alone.

So from my perspective, at least, any hunting of deer or any other animal in that park, by whatever group, for whatever reason, was wrong. Continue reading →

This Thursday, November 7th at 7 p.m. at the Niagara Falls Public Library on 4848 Victoria Avenue in Niagara Falls, Ontario

A Brief Note from Doug Draper

Posted November 7th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

Marcie Jacklin, a Fort Erie, Ontario resident and great conservationist and expert on birds, and one of the people fighting to save Waverly Woods from developers in her community, was good enough to circulate the following note about what sounds like a very interesting presentation we can all attend.

Some of you may remember Snake Hill in Fort Erie as the place where a construction crew happened to come across the remains of several American soldiers from the War of 1812, who were then repatriated in a moving caravan of hearses crossing the Peace Bridge to the U.S. side.

Here is Marcie’s note –

Are you a history buff?

You might like to attend June Chipp’s presentation entitled “Tragedy at Snake Hill: An Unknown Fort Erie Battlefield?” Her talk is on Thursday November 7th at 7 pm at the Niagara Falls Public Library. 

Finally, here is a short video on some of the history of the Snake Hill site that you may also find interesting. Click on the screen below to watch –

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 reminder that we only post comments by individuals who also share their first and last names.

For more news and commentary from Niagara At Large – an independent, alternative voice for our greater bi-national Niagara region – become a regular visitor and subscriber to NAL at www.niagaraatlarge.com .

“A politician thinks of the next election. a leader thinks of the next generation.” – Bernie Sanders

Input Will Help Town and Partnering Niagara Communities Put Together a Climate Adaption Plan for our Future 

This Climate Survey is Applicable to Residents of Pelham, St. Catharines, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Grimsby, Niagara Falls, Lincoln, and Welland

Let’s hear from all of you! Niagara Adapts is a partnership that brings together seven Niagara municipalities — Grimsby, Lincoln, Niagara Falls, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Pelham, St. Catharines and Welland — with Brock’s Environmental Sustainability Research Centre (ESRC) to address climate change.

Message from Niagara Adapts, a partnership that brings together seven Niagara municipalities with Brock’s Environmental Sustainability Research Centre (ESRC) to address climate change.

Posted November 6^th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

The Town of Pelham, collaborating with Niagara Adapts, is looking for input on their climate vulnerability assessment.

Filling out a survey could net you $300. Currently, all municipalities involved with Niagara Adapts (Pelham, St. Catharines, Welland, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Niagara Falls, Grimsby, and Lincoln) are in the process of conducting their vulnerability assessments.

These assessments are crucial for developing robust climate solutions in a climate adaptation plan.  Defined by the International Council on Local Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI), vulnerability is a function of both the sensitivity and the adaptive capacity of a given sector, and understanding how such factors are influenced by impacts posed by climate change will help key decision makers identify the best-fit climate solutions accordingly.   Continue reading →

A News Commentary by Doug Draper, followed by a Salary Disclosures Statement released this November 5^th by the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA)

Posted November 6^th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

In a brief statement circulated to the media this November 5^th, the NPCA has disclosed the salaries for six positions at the agency that command salaries of $100,000 or more.

The statement comes after the office of Ontario’s Information and Salaries Commissioner ruled this October that disclosing the salaries at an agency that receives more than $10 million annually in public funds is in the “public interest” and over-rides any privacy concerns.

The six positions listed in the statement, along with the salaries that come with them, are as follows:

• Manager, Information Management & Technology (previously disclosed) $102,035
• Manager, Finance $102,035
• Senior Manager, Operations & Special Projects $110,347
• Director, Watershed Management $130,274
• Senior Director, Corporate Services $147,383
• Chief Administrative Officer $156,267

Ed Smith, a St. Catharines resident and community activist, made the request for disclosing the salaries before he was appointed to the NPCA’s board earlier this year by St. Catharines city council.

Ed Smith, a St. Catharines resident and citizen activist, filed a request for the disclosure of the salaries to the provincial commissioner’s office  last year, before he was appointed earlier this year to a position on the NPCA’s board of directors by St. Catharines city council.

Smith did so after the last NPCA board of directors and its then-chair Sandy Annunziata – a board that drew considerable public controversy over the past four years with a make-up of mostly municipal mayors and regional councillors who are now gone – did not disclose any NPCA administrators salaries for the province’s 2018 so-called Sunshine list for public servant salaries annually worth $100,000 or more.

Annunziata, who was also a regional councillor for Fort Erie before he was defeated in the October municipal elections, insisted last year that the Conservation Authority submitted six-digit salaries to provincial bureaucrats putting together the Sunshine List but was told that the NPCA did not qualify to make the list, and its submission was rejected. Continue reading →

On Energy the Alliance of World Scientists is urging humanity to take “immediate steps” to “implement massive conservation practices; replace fossil fuels with low-carbon renewables; leave remaining stocks of fossil fuels in the ground; eliminate subsidies to fossil fuel companies; and impose carbon fees that are high enough to restrain the use of fossil fuels.”

A News Release and Urgent Call-Out  from the Alliance of World Scientists

Posted November 5^th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

Corvallis, Oregon – A global coalition of scientists led by William J. Ripple and Christopher Wolf of Oregon State University says “untold human suffering” is unavoidable without deep and lasting shifts in human activities that contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and other factors related to climate change.

“Despite 40 years of major global negotiations, we have continued to conduct business as usual and have failed to address this crisis,” said Ripple, distinguished professor of ecology in the OSU College of Forestry.

“Climate change has arrived and is accelerating faster than many scientists expected.”

In a paper published today in BioScience, the authors, along with more than 11,000 scientist signatories from 153 countries, declare a climate emergency, present graphics showing trends as vital signs against which to measure progress, and provide a set of effective mitigating actions. Continue reading →

Greta Thunberg, right, gives Trump a telling look as he walks through the United Nations corridors to spend a token few minutes at a global climate summit this past September

“You have stolen my dreams and my childhood with your empty words.”

“The eyes of all future generations are upon you. And if you choose to fail us I say we will never forgive you. We will not let you get away with this. Right here, right now is where we draw the line.”                – 16-year-old Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg at a United Nations Climate Summit this past summer

News from the Sierra Club in the United States

Posted November 5^th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

This past Monday, November 4th, the Trump administration notified the United Nations that it is quitting the Paris Agreement.

This shameful act of presidential negligence means that the U.S. will be the only country in the world that is not participating in this landmark international climate agreement.

This is not only a stunning abdication of global leadership; it threatens to devastate ecosystems and unleash unprecedented suffering on generations of vulnerable people, both here and abroad.

We’re not taking this lying down. We will work even harder with our allies in Congress and at the state and local level to hold this administration accountable and keep our country moving forward. Continue reading →

City of Peterborough is one of most recent municipalities to pass Ontario Health Coalition’s Council Resolution against the cuts

A Call-Out from the Ontario Health Coalition, a public advocacy group for quality public health care

Posted November 5th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

Late this October, the City of Peterborough joined Toronto, Lambton County, Kingsville, and others to pass a municipal council resolution from the Ontario Health Coalition calling on the Ford government to stop its cuts/plans to eliminate local public health, ambulance/paramedic, hospital and long-term care services.

Thank you to the Peterborough Health Coalition!

The resolution began its journey across Ontario in Lambton County where it was introduced by Sarnia’s Mayor Mike Bradley. Continue reading →

For NAL’s Niagara, Ontario and Buffalo, New York area readers, here is a bit of what is happening on the climate action front on the American side of our shared border

A Call-Out from the Western New York Youth Climate Council 

Posted November 5^th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

At an Earth Day march in Buffalo, New York, April 2017. File photo by Doug Draper

Buffalo, New York – Before we talk action, what is a Climate Emergency Declaration?  

Very basically, it is a resolution which makes it clear that the government that passes it is open to taking climate change for the life threatening crisis it is.

Once we have our foot in the door, we can push for further actions based on the promises that they make in the passage of the resolution, and beyond. SO, in September we approached the Erie County legislature with a petition to have the County declare a Climate Emergency.

So far, we haven’t heard back. But that’s no reason to stop! 

Now, we’re asking for your help to demand Buffalo Common Council declare an emergency as well.

We went to the Legislature with 577 all youth signatures, but this time we want even more, to show just how much Western New York supports a climate emergency. 

You can sign below or get signatures on paper!

Continue reading →

Tuesday, November 5th to Monday, November 11th

A Statement by Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Veterans’ Week 

Posted November 5^th, 2019 on Niagara At Large 

A memorial statue to First World War veterans in Chippawa Park in Welland, Ontario. File photo by Doug Draper

Ottawa, Ontario – The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, issued the following statement today on Veterans’ Week, which runs from November 5 to 11, 2019: 

“Generations of brave Canadians from all walks of life have stepped forward to serve and sacrifice for our country. Hundreds of thousands have fought – and many continue to serve – so we may live in peace. 

“In the days leading up to Remembrance Day, Veterans’ Week <https://www.veterans.gc.ca/eng/remembrance/get-involved/remembrance-day> is an opportunity for us all to learn from the stories of Canadians who answered the call of duty. Confronted with extraordinary circumstances during times of conflict, these ordinary people became the honoured heroes we remember today.  Continue reading →

Glen Walker, Chair, Niagara Poverty Reduction Network

“Providing wages that allow a family to meet its basic household needs is one important tool to address cost of living and precarious employment challenges in Niagara region and should be top of mind for all employers.”                                                               – Glen Walker, Chair of the Niagara Poverty Reduction Network

News from the Niagara Poverty Reduction Network

Posted November 4^th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – With the annual cost of household living expenses for a Niagara region family of four conservatively pegged at over $73,000, the Niagara Poverty Reduction Network (NPRN) has calculated the hourly wage necessary to meet these expenses, otherwise known as a living wage, to be $18.12 for 2019. 

As part of National Living Wage Week, the Network has released a new report, ‘Calculating the Living Wage for Niagara Region, 2019’, which outlines the full methodology used. Continue reading →

‘Ford’s Conservatives have proposed giving industry a cheaper pass when it comes to dumping sewage in our water, using toxic pesticides and polluting the air.’

A Statement from Ontario NDP Environment critic Ian Arthur

Posted November 4^th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

QUEEN’S PARK – NDP critic for the Environment, Ian Arthur, released the following statement regarding the Ford government’s attempt to make it cheaper for industry to pollute in Ontario:

“Ontarians are worried about the environment, and worried that future generations are going to inherit a more polluted province.

The Ford government’s new environmental plan will make it cheaper for companies to pollute. The Conservatives have proposed giving industry a cheaper pass when it comes to dumping sewage in our water, using toxic pesticides and polluting the air. Continue reading →

From Niagara At Large reporter and publisher Doug Draper

Posted November 1st, 2019 on Niagara At Large

I am going to blame it on the fact that I was up most of last night, concerned about what the severe winds might be doing to the big maple trees around my house.

The excitement of that left me feeling so tired this Friday that I posted a piece on the Ontario Ombudsman’s report on the Niagara Region CAO hiring controversy that had some embarrassing typos and grammatical errors in it.

I have temporarily removed the piece and will have it back on shortly. Sorry for any inconvenience or confusion.

Please discard the last post on this issue and watch for the revised one

– Doug Draper, Niagara At Large

New Report Says Hundreds of Millions Could See Their Coastal Communities & Homes Disappear by 2050

With an Introductory Commentary  by Doug Draper, reporter and publisher, Niagara At Large

Posted October 31^st, 2019 on Niagara At Large

An image from one of many NASA reports over the years on rising seas and climate change

If you are one of the many Canadians who enjoy spending your winters in Florida, you better enjoy it while you can because by the middle of this century and beyond, much of the current coastal areas in that could be gone.

Virtually all due to melting ice caps and rising seas linked to climate change.

In one of several past reports on what scientists are forecasting for the world’s coastal areas in the decades ahead if we fail to more seriously address the climate emergency we are facing now, this journalist read that by the middle of this century, Donald Trump’s coveted Miami, Florida area golf resort, Mar-a-Lago, could be under water for most of the year if current climate warming and ice melting trends continue.

By the middle of this century, most, if not all, of Trump’s Mara-a-Lago resort in Florida could be under water most of the year, thanks to rising seas and a climate emergency he repeatedly calls a hoax.

That may seem like poetic justice given that Trump is arguably the worst of all leaders in the developed world for gutting environmental programs, encouraging more burning of oil and coal, and calling climate change a hoax every chance he can get.

But Trump, who is now in his 70s, probably won’t be around to see Mara-Lago disappear anyway below the surf anyway which may be one of the reasons why he and a disproportionate number of other people his age would rather have cheap gas than deal with climate change anyway. Continue reading →

              Wednesday, November 13^th at 8 p.m. at the                         St. Catharines Central Library. The Forum is open to all and  Free of Charge

An Invite from the Niagara District Council of Women

Posted October 31^st. 2019 on Niagara At Large

A Brief Footnote from Niagara At Large reporter and publisher Doug Draper –

Those of us who live in Niagara may like to think that acts of racism or discrimination against others due to the colour of their skin, their ethnicity, their religion, their gender or sexuality or due to some other reason are rare here, or at least not as frequent as they are in other regions of Canada or the United States. Continue reading →

By Doug Draper

Posted Halloween Eve, October 30th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

Who needs fake ghosts and goblins on Halloween?

I don’t know about you, but no one in the world frightens me more right now than this guy!

We could wake up one morning and find out that he has done or said something crazy that has started another world war.

When are our American neighbours going to finally take the bull by the horns and get him out of the Oval Office and away from that nuclear code? Enough of him raping Mother Nature too!

What better way to end this nightmare than a good impeachment, followed by a battery of criminal charges and convictions.

Let’s give it up for Nancy Pelosi’s Congressional majority and the best of prosecutors in the U.S. justice system.

One of the most recent covers of New York magazine was heartening to see

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 reminder that we only post comments by individuals who also share their first and last names.

For more news and commentary from Niagara At Large – an independent, alternative voice for our greater bi-national Niagara region – become a regular visitor and subscriber to NAL at http://www.niagaraatlarge.com .

“A politician thinks of the next election. a leader thinks of the next generation.” – Bernie Sanders

Another Piece of Niagara’s Rich Natural Heritage Targeted by Developers

A Redheaded Woodpecker in Waverly Woods. A recent scientific report predicted a crash in bird populations across North American, in no small part due to loss of place like this for birds to live.

You Are Invited to a Trivia Night Fundraiser – Saturday, November 2^nd, evening hours in Fort Erie – and Sign the Petition Below

A Call-Out from Community Voices in Fort Erie, a citizens group dedicated to protecting and preserving the community’s priceless natural and historical resources

Posted October 29^th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

Trivia Night is almost here – help Save Waverly Woods

One of the many residents of Waverly Woods near the shores of Lake Erie

Hello everyone.

Just a reminder that Trivia Night is the evening of November 2nd. If you went the last time you’ll remember the great baked goods we provided.

If you can get your tickets soon, we’ll know how much to bake! How to get tickets and all the special events happening that night are posted here https://sites.google.com/view/communityvoicesfe/home/fundraising-events?authuser=0 .

We hope to see new and old friends there!! It was so much fun last time. Please come out and support us.

Have you seen this video about Erie Beach. There is some really interesting information here  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q5FQHlaouUQ&fbclid=IwAR0ijHMS8_DSQhdpmXG2PFSJPeUnEa7KTPsd5gQ75vWMelg1cj2a3mfy7fQ

A pathway inside Waverly Woods in Fort Erie/Niagara. Let’s keep it this way for present and future generations of people and wildlife

How can you help?

• * Donate to help us cover our legal and expert cost at this link https://www.forterievoices.org/donation or send a donation to Community Voices of Fort Erie, P.O. Box 273, Fort Erie, Ontario L2A 2S0.
• * Share the petition with others https://www.change.org/p/ten-story-condo-going-up-in-waverly-woods Can we get to 5200 signatures by December 1st?  An alternative is to join our email BLAST list by sending your email and name to cvferie@gmail.com

A Brief Afterword from Niagara At Large publisher and environment writer –

Don’t let a sign like this be the beginning of the end of another place rich with natural and historical resources in Niagara. There are so many other places in the region where pavement can go

I hope you support this very important effort by citizens in the Town of Fort Erie to save this gem of  a place for present and future generations.

Like so many other battles, including one in neighbouring Niagara Falls to save the Thundering Waters Forest from developers and their enablers on that city’s council, these are almost always Dave vs. Goliath battles , pitting citizens against parties with political influence and  deep pockets

So give all the support that you can because once these gems in our Niagara are gone – and we have lost too many already – they are gone forever!

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 Reminder That We Only Post Comments By Individuals Who Also Share Their First And Last Names.

For More News And Commentary From Niagara At Large – An Independent, Alternative Voice For Our Greater Bi-National Niagara Region – Become A Regular Visitor And Subscriber To NAL At Www.Niagaraatlarge.Com .

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

The Premier’s Tone May Change but his Conservative Party’s War on our Environment Rages On

A Commentary by Doug Draper, professional journalist, veteran environment writer, and publisher of Niagara At Large

Posted October 28^th, 2019

After almost half a year of shutting Ontario’s legislature down, Premier Doug Ford has re-opened its doors today with a promise to strike a “new,” less nasty tone.

What does that mean? Are Ford and his 75 Tory Party minions going to do less yelling and desk pounding when they are pressed to answer for themselves during question period?

No amount of playing up the nice is going to mask the havoc this Ford government has been wreaking, and is continuing to wreak on common sense services across this province, including programs for protecting our environment and addressing the existential climate catastrophe younger generations will face if climate deniers and laggards who make up and support this government have their way. Continue reading →

‘The long-term vision … is to help municipalities be proactive in planning for safe and efficient transportation system for all users, with an emphasis on public transit and active transportation modes.’

News from Niagara’s Regional Government

Posted October 28^th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Regional Headquarters

Niagara, Ontario – This October, Niagara Regional Council adopted an amendment to existing transportation policies that encourage improvements to the overall design of new neighbourhoods, helping communities maximize their potential and become attractive places to live and work.

Regional Official Plan Amendment (ROPA) 13 ensures higher level transportation policies in the Regional Official Plan are aligned with recommendations of the Region’s approved 2017 Transportation Master Plan, and that they are consistent with current provincial legislation.

Through new policies and mapping, this planning update advances active transportation networks (i.e. modes like walking and cycling), interconnected public transit systems, and efficient goods movement networks, and address the following key areas: Continue reading →

‘Sustained strong winds (this  have resulted in a rise of Lake Erie water levels of approximately 2.3m (7.5 feet) with significant waves heights of over 1.5m (5 feet) being experienced’

A News Update from the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority

Posted October 27^th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

LAKE ERIE – FLOOD WARNING – (This update issued at 1:29 p.m. this Sunday, October 27th)

To: All School Boards, All Municipalities,Police and Emergency Services

MNR, Area, District and Provincial Response CentreNews mediaHamilton Region, Grand River, & Long Point Conservation Authorities

This notice is intended to update the public and local municipalities of the condition of the Lake Erie shoreline within the Niagara Peninsula and the eastern portion of Haldimand County. Continue reading →

Canadian Youth Sue Federal Government for Contributing to Climate Change, Endangering ‘The youth assert that the climate change impacts they are experiencing infringe their rights to life, liberty, security of the person and their right to equal protection under the law under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.’

“As youth, we have dreams for the future. Without a stable climate, our generation will not fulfill these dreams. My government should not be standing in the way of our dreams.”                                                                         – Lucas, 15 years old and one of the plaintiffs in the lawsuit from Ottawa, Ontario

News from Our Children’s Trust – Canada

Posted October 25^th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

Canadian youth, ages 10 to 19 years old, filed a lawsuit in the Federal Court of Canada, alleging that the Canadian government causes, contributes to and allows dangerous levels of greenhouse gas emissions, and is thus responsible for the specific, individualized climate change impacts they are experiencing.

The young plaintiffs in the climate lawsuit against Canada’s federal government. The filing of the lawsuit was announced at a hue climate strike rally attended by 16-year-old global activist Greta Thunberg in Vancouver, B.C. this October 25th

The youth assert that the climate change impacts they are experiencing infringe their rights to life, liberty, security of the person and their right to equal protection under the law under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, as well as their rights as beneficiaries under the Public Trust Doctrine. Continue reading →

For Now at Least, the Status Quo in Niagara – 13 Municipal Councils (including regional) and more than 120 Municipal Councillors – Will Remain

Niagara Region’s council in session and now looking like it won’t be downsized any time soon. file photo by Doug Draper

“Our government … conducted a review of Ontario’s eight regional governments (including Niagara’s) … After careful consideration of the feedback we heard through the course of the review, our government stands firm in its commitment to partnering with municipalities without pursuing a top-down approach. We will provide municipalities with the resources to support local decision-making.”                                                              – Steve Clark, Ontario’s Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing.

A News Commentary by Doug Draper

Posted October 25^th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

One of many protesting the Ford government’s decision to slash the size of Toronto’s city council, arrested in the provincial legislature last year.

Okay, so what was all that hooting, hollering and hand-ringing ll about?

Ontario Premier Doug Ford and his Conservatives began their term in power last year by taking a meat axe to Toronto’s city council – cutting the number of elected councillors serving one of North America’s largest cities almost in half – then went on to make all kinds of noise about doing something similar in other regions of the province.

“Big government is bad, in my opinion,” he told one of Niagara’s mainstream newspapers earlier this year. What’s Niagara and Muskoka? They have 122 or 133 elected officials? … That’s absolutely ridiculous.” Continue reading →

Ontario’s Ford Government Announces It Will Not Move Forward With More Downsizing of Municipal Councils in Province   

Niagara Regional Chair Jim Bradley

Regional Chair Bradley’s Statement on the Provincial governance review  Announcement

Posted October 25^th, 2019 on Niagara At Large 

Niagara, Ontario – ​Regional Chair Jim Bradley offered the following statement regarding the Minister Steve Clark’s announcement on the municipal governance review:

“Today, the Provincial Government announced that they will not being taking a ‘top-down’ approach to amalgamations across Ontario, instead letting local councils decide what is best for them in terms of governance, decision-making and service delivery.

I applaud the decision of Minister Steve Clark and the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing for listening to the people of Ontario when making this important decision. Continue reading →

“It is an honour to represent the City of St. Catharines for this special occasion with the Lincoln and Welland Regiment. The bonds between our cities and our countries were forged in the toughest of times and they are bonds that remain strong through the special relationships that have developed over the last 75 years.” – St. Catharines Mayor Walter Sendzik

St. Catharines Mayor Walter Sendzik

News from the City of St. Catharines

Posted October 24^th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – Mayor Walter Sendzik is honoured to join members of the Lincoln and Welland Regiment and Canadian leaders to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the liberation of The Netherlands in the Second World War at ceremonies in the city of Bergen op Zoom this week.

The Lincoln and Welland Regiment played a major role in key battles to liberate The Netherlands in September and October, 1944. The Dutch city of Bergen op Zoom was a strategic location that was liberated by the Lincoln and Welland Regiment and South Alberta Regiment in October 1944.

Canadian troops moving in during the liberation of the Netherlands from Nazi occupation in the fall of 1944

 The Canadian War Cemetery in Bergen op Zoom holds the graves of 1100 Canadian soldiers who were killed in the liberation of the area, including 69 casualties from the Lincoln and Welland Regiment. Every year, families and descendants of veterans travel to the city for commemoration ceremonies to honour their loved ones. Continue reading →

All Existing Services will be  Transferred to           Welland Courthouse

“The consolidation of services to the Welland courthouse will improve service levels to the public and ensure Niagara residents can find all necessary resources in one location. The efficiencies generated from this transfer keep the Niagara taxpayer in mind.” ~Jim Bradley, Niagara Regional Chair

News from Niagara’s Regional Government

Posted October 24th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

St. Catharines services moving to Welland Courthouse

Niagara, Ontario – ​The St. Catharines Provincial Courthouse will be closing Oct. 31, 2019 at noon.

Regional Council approved the closure of the 71 King St. courthouse on June 20, with all existing services transferring to the new 1,836 square metre Welland courthouse, located at 445 East Main St.

Up until its closure on Oct. 31, the St. Catharines Courthouse will continue to operate as a counter service to assist members of the public with setting a trial or early resolution meeting, extensions or re-openings, appeal documents and fine payments. No trial proceedings have taken place at the courthouse since October 2018. Continue reading →

With one decade to halve emissions, Parliament has critical role in addressing climate crisis

A Message from the David Suzuki Foundation

Posted October 23^rd, 2019 on Niagara At Large

OTTAWA — The newly elected Canadian Parliament must implement unprecedented action to meet its international climate commitments, in line with maximum global warming of 1.5 C. To do so, members of Parliament must come together and work across political boundaries.

“Canadians overwhelmingly support climate action. They want immediate and long-term solutions to the climate crisis now,” David Suzuki Foundation CEO Stephen Cornish said. “Canadians — especially younger people — expect government to rise to the challenge.” Continue reading →

“Invasive species are great at spreading and growing. They basically take over habitat, displacing many native species and further endangering native species that are already threatened.” – Lyn Brown, Master of Sustainability student, Brock University

News from Brock University in St. Catharines 

Posted October 23^rd, 2019 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – They hitch rides on the soles of people’s shoes and in water carried and dumped by ships, enabling them to sneak through borders undetected.

During her Master of Sustainability program at Brock University, Lyn Brown (MS ’19) created the Niagara Region Aquatic and Riparian Invasive Species Control Database, which lists activities by organizations and groups in Niagara that manage invasive plant and aquatic species.

Once in their new homes, they destroy their neighbours by crowding them out, passing along diseases or even poisoning nearby plants, sometimes leading to major landscape transformations.

Plants and animals being introduced on purpose, or inadvertently into new environments, can have harmful impacts<https://www.environmentalscience.org/invasive-species> on native ecosystems.  Continue reading →

NDP Leader Andrea Horwath eager to get back to provincial legislature to help families affected by Conservative cuts

Ford and Company Shut Doors on House for doing Peoples’ Business a Full Five Months Ago!

A Message from Ontario’s Opposition New Democratic Party

Posted October 23^rd, 2019 on Niagara At Large

Ontario Opposition NDP Leader Andrea Horwath wants the provincial legislature back in business.

QUEEN’S PARK – Official Opposition NDP Leader Andrea Horwath says New Democrats are eager to return to the legislature and work for families after Premier Doug Ford went into hiding for five months.

“Five months ago, Doug Ford shut down the legislature and went into hiding to help his friends in the federal Conservative party. It didn’t work,” said Horwath. “While Doug Ford hid the damage caused by his cuts was in plain sight: in our hospitals, our schools and for families across Ontario.”

Horwath noted that Ontario families continue to feel the fallout caused by Doug Ford’s budget cuts. Over the summer schools narrowly avoided a province-wide shutdown and the independent Financial Accountability Office confirmed that Ontario schools will shed 10,000 teaching jobs due to Ford cuts. Continue reading →

Support the Campaign to “Rescue” Welland’s classic Central Fire Hall – Saturday, November 2^nd at Welland’s Royal Legion Hall

A Call-Out to All from the Central Station Education Initiative

Posted October 23^rd, 2019 on Niagara At Large

Rescue Me!

A night of blazing rock music by the popular band Stonewall will fire up fund raising to preserve Welland’s classically designed Central Fire Station.

The Saturday, November 2^nd  dance at Welland’s Royal Canadian Legion hall, at 383 Moringstar Ave., will feature the popular band Stonewall leading a fun-filled night of dancing. It will include tasty snacks and great prizes.

Tickets are $10 at the door or in advance from members of the Central Station Education Initiative. Doors open 7:30 p.m. for a party that continues until midnight. Continue reading →

“You can’t always get what you want, but if you try sometimes, you get what you need.” – from the lyrics of a song by                The Rolling Stones’ Keith Richards and Mick Jagger

With the election over, will these three federal leaders now work more closely together for progressive change?

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

Posted October 22^nd, 1019 on Niagara At Large

The choices for many of us in this federal election may not have been great ones. Some even found them  disappointing and awful.

Yet, for more progressive-minded people across the Niagara region and across the country – for those of us who are demanding far stronger action on climate change and who want to see other common good services protected and improved – the results of this October 21^st election may be as good as we could expect, given the choices and given the very real threat of a Scheer Conservative Party win.

In fact, the results of this election could be the start of a new dawn for more progressive action on climate and a host of other common good issues, from health care and education to fairer wages and closing tax loopholes for the upper ten per cent, if a minority Liberal government, the NDP and Greens can put one-upmanship partisan politics aside and work together for a healthier, more just and prosperous future for all. Continue reading →

Statement from  Official Opposition Ontario NDP Leader Andrea Horwath on the Federal Election

Posted October 22^nd, 2019 on Niagara At Large

Ontario NDP Leader Andrea Horwath

Toronto — Andrea Horwath, NDP Leader and Leader of the Official Opposition, issued the following statement:

“I want to congratulate Justin Trudeau on his re-election as Prime Minister and thank all of the candidates who put their names on the ballot, and put their lives on hold to make democracy work.

I look forward to working with the new government and elected MPs of all stripes on priorities identified throughout the campaign: improving our healthcare system, expanding drug coverage with pharmacare, making education affordable and taking action on the climate crisis. Continue reading →

Ford wants new federal government to help pitch in on services for Ontario municipalities, people

“Ontarians need and expect our governments to work with our municipal partners to build new and needed hospital infrastructure, create long-term care beds for our aging population, address gridlock and congestion on our roads and to build affordable housing for young people and families.”               – Ontario Premier Doug Ford

A Statement from Ontario Premier Doug Ford on the Federal Election 

Posted October 22nd, 2019 on Niagara At Large 

Toronto — Today (October 22^nd) Doug Ford, Premier Of Ontario, Issued The Following Statement: 

“I want to congratulate Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on his re-election, and congratulate all federal leaders on a hard fought campaign to ensure Canadians’ voices are heard on the important issues facing this country. 

Our government looks forward to working with the Prime Minister, and with all federal parties, to build better public services and to make life more affordable and prosperous for Ontarians and all Canadians.  

This Ford government sticker is a shot at one of the federal Liberal government’s efforts to place a price on climate-changing carbon pollution by, in part, demonizing it as a “tax.” Ford is continuing to fight the so-called “carbon tax” in the courts.

We stand ready to work with the federal government on important shared priorities, including building critical infrastructure for the future, breaking down barriers to trade, ensuring better access to mental health services, and investing in health care, education and other vital public services. 

Our Government is further encouraged by the Prime Minister’s commitment on the campaign trail to fund the federal government’s share of the all-new Ontario line subway project. 

Ontarians need and expect our governments to work with our municipal partners to build new and needed hospital infrastructure, create long-term care beds for our aging population, address gridlock and congestion on our roads and to build affordable housing for young people and families. 

I look forward to working with Prime Minister Trudeau and to continuing to work with the federal government to deliver on the priorities that matter most to the people of Ontario.”

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 Reminder That We Only Post Comments By Individuals Who Also Share Their First And Last Names.

For More News And Commentary From Niagara At Large – An Independent, Alternative Voice For Our Greater Bi-National Niagara Region – Become A Regular Visitor And Subscriber To NAL At Www.Niagaraatlarge.Com . .

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

“As a first order of business, the federal government must legislate a new greenhouse gas reduction target for this country. … The government also needs to bring a swift end to fossil fuel subsidies, reign in the disinformation campaigns paid for by the fossil fuel lobby, and craft a transition plan for workers and communities who will be impacted by the phaseout of fossil fuels from our economy.” 

Statement from Tim Gray, Executive Director of Environmental Defence, on the results of the 2019 Federal Election

Posted October 22^nd, 2019 on Niagara At Large

This election was essentially a referendum on climate change action, and Canadians voted a strong “yes!”

Although a majority of Canadians didn’t vote for any one political party, a majority of Canadians did vote for a more ambitious climate action plan.

Now the parties and members of  parliament must work together across party lines to forge an alliance to deliver action in line with what Canadians are expecting and what science tells us must be done.

As a first order of business, the federal government must legislate a new greenhouse gas reduction target for this country and increase our level of ambition to ensure Canada does its part to limit warming to 1.5 degrees. Continue reading →

A Call-Out from Niagara Action for Animals (NAfA)

Posted October 22^nd, 2019 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – NAfA will be holding a bazaar at the Fairview Mall on Geneva Street in St. Catharines this Wednesday, October 23^rd and Thursday October 24^th during mall hours.

We will be at the IKEA end of the mall this time and have a whole host of new and nearly new items to  sell…. including household goods, decor, children’s toys & stuffies & books, jewellery, framed prints, ‘pet stuff’ and more!

We hope you can come see us and find some bargains or just pop by for a chat.

P.S. – Knit Cat (pictured in this post) will be joining us.

Niagara Action for Animals is a non-profit, all volunteer charity devoted to ending all forms of animal cruelty through education, direct action and legitimate protest.

For more on Niagara Action for Animals and its advocacy work, click on – https://niagaraactionforanimals.org/ .

A Brief Note from Doug Draper at Niagara At Large –

Niagara Action for Animals is currently one of the longest-lasting citizen groups advocating for any issue in Niagara, and even if you don’t agree with its positions or actions on every issue, it has done and it continues to do some great work for all creatures great and small.

It is a group that deserves the greater community’s support which is why Niagara At Large is pleased to  post NAfA’s call-out for this charity event.  Please support it if you can.

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 reminder that we only post comments by individuals who also share their first and last names.

For more news and commentary from Niagara At Large – an independent, alternative voice for our greater bi-national Niagara region – become a regular visitor and subscriber to NAL at www.niagaraatlarge.com .

“A politician thinks of the next election. a leader thinks of the next generation.” – Bernie Sanders

Vote for the Candidate in Your Riding – Liberal, NDP or Green – Who You Believe is Most Likely to Win and Spare Us from the Nightmare of a Service Gutting, Climate-Denying Ford-Scheer Coalition in Ontario

Vote Liberal, Green or NDP, whichever party and candidate you believe has the best chance in your riding of beating the Conservative and fighting for a better future for us all.

A Commentary by Niagara At Large reporter and publisher                 Doug Draper

Posted October 20^th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

I have often wondered who, among us, is getting called for all the polls we read and hear about during provincial and federal elections,

Then a few days ago, for perhaps only the second or third time in my life, I was called by a national polling agency and asked to respond to a few questions about this Monday’s federal election.

First I was asked, who I thought was the best leader among all at the helm of parties in this federal race. My answer, without a nanosecond of hesitation, was Green Party Leader Elizabeth

The very next ask from the pollster was which party in my party that I planned to vote for. My answer was the Liberals.

If this comes across as confusing, disappointing or something worse to you, let me try offering a brief explanation. Continue reading →

Niagara Centre Conservative Candidate’s Record on former NPCA Board, Regional Council Should Be Enough To Count Her Out

A Commentary by Ed Smith

Posted October 18^th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

If I lived in Niagara Centre (and I don’t), I would not vote for Aril Jeffs, who is now running in that riding as the federal Conservative candidate.

Ed Smith raises concerns about operations at a Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority board meeting three years ago. April Jeffs was a board member at the time.

There are many reasons why I wouldn’t, and Jeff’s promotional ads in which she talks about the need for “trust” has made me feel compelled to write this.

April Jeffs was on the Board of Directors of the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) and was a councillor at the Niagara Region during what can only be described as some of the darkest days of politics in Niagara’s history.

In the interest of transparency, I need to tell you that I am the Niagara citizen that April and the rest of the NPCA board at the time and a now former CAO (Chief Administrative Officer) of the Conservation Authority tried unsuccessfully (in 2016 and 2017) to sue.

They were disturbed by me being critical of their actions at the NPCA and by my demands for answers. Continue reading →

Brickell sued the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority for $2.3 million in February of 2019 for wrongfull dismissal by now former NPCA administrators and board members in late 2018

A Brief Foreword Note by Doug Draper, Niagara At Large

Posted October 18^th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

Former NPCA CAO Mark Brickell and the Conservation Authority have apparently reached a settlement on Brickell’s $2.3 million lawsuit against the agency. No further detailed have been made available.

I knew that the NPCA’s new board and administrators were working to reach some sort of mutually agreeable settlement to the heft lawsuit former NPCA CAO Mark Brickell filed against the agency in February of this year.

However, we have no details on whatever settlement may have been reached in recent days or any payment or compensation the NPCA has made to Brickell, who served in the role of CAO from April 2017 to December of last year.

The following “Joint Statement”, released late this Friday afternoon, October 18^th, 2019 as all of the information we have received so far.

It came with a note from an NPCA communications specialist, reading; “Because this is remains an HR matter, the NPCA will not be providing any further comment.”  Continue reading →

Join Host Friends of One Mile Creek and Guest Speaker Owen Bjorgan at a Free Meeting on Wednesday, 23^rd, at  7.m. in the Niagara-on-the-Lake  Community Centre

An Invite from Friends of One Mile Creek (FOMC) in Niagara-on-the-Lake

Posted October 18^th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario  – At the October 23^rd meeting of Friends of One Mile Creek (FOMC), special guest speaker Owen Bjorgan will talk about Niagara’s wetlands and what’s happening in the watersheds of our traditional creeks such as One Mile Creek, Two Mile Creek, Four Mile Creek and Eight Mile Creek.

Owen Bjorgan doing what he loves – exploring Niagara’s natural places

An accomplished photographer and experienced outdoor adventurer, Owen will explain and show how important wetlands are in our ecosystem. Continue reading →

The Conservatives came in Dead Last for their Platform!

“The NDP is tops with an overall mark of A- for producing one of the mostprogressive platforms in decades, with the best plans to close taxloopholes, tackle tax havens, make the tax system more progressive andlevel the digital playing field by taxing foreign e-commerce giants.”

“The Greens weren’t too far behind with a B+ for their ambitious proposalsincluding increasing the carbon pricing system and closing tax loopholes.”

“The Liberals and the Bloc both tied in third place with a score of C- afterreleasing platforms that mostly skipped over tax fairness measures while the Conservatives came in dead last with an F for their platform, which included proposals to reintroduce tax breaks for millionaires.”

A News Release from the nation-wide public interest group, Canadians for Fair Taxation

Posted October 18^th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

We’ve just released our Fair Tax Report Card grading every party on the tax fairness strength of their platforms and promises.

Grades were based on the top five tax fairness priorities our supporters selected this summer: closing tax loopholes, tackling tax havens, making the tax system more progressive, levelling the digital playing field, and addressing climate change. Continue reading →

The potential changes could affect water tables, trucking routes and where quarries could expand. Self-filing procedures and elimination of licensing for some “low risk” activities are also proposed.

Changes of concern to Hamilton and other municipalities include no longer requiring “agreements between municipalities and aggregate producers regarding aggregate haulage.”

News from Citizens at City Hall, a Hamilton, Ontario-based citizen watchdog group

Posted October 16^th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

Hamilton, Ontario – City of Hamilton staff are fuming over a Ford government re-write of the rules governing quarrying and related aggregate transportation.

The provincial plans emerged from a “summit” last March to which the
city was not invited.

And once again the changes have not been spelled out in
sufficient detail to determine their impacts, although they have won
the endorsement of the aggregate industry association.

The potential changes could affect water tables, trucking routes and
where quarries could expand. Self-filing procedures and elimination of
licensing for some “low risk” activities are also proposed. Continue reading →

“A living wage reflects what earners need to be paid based on the actual costs of living and being included in the community.”

News from the Niagara Poverty Reduction Network

Posted October 16^th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

ClaraDerma+ co-owners Alicia Yap and Olenka Allison with Niagara Poverty Reduction Netwok chair Glen Walker

Niagara, Ontario – The Niagara Poverty Reduction Network is pleased to announce that ClaraDerma+ has become a certified living wage employer at the Champion level.

ClaraDerma+ is a medical aesthetics clinic dedicated to helping patients address their skin needs using a variety of preventative measures, corrective treatments and patient education. They are based in St. Catharines and currently employ five full time, three part time and three contract staff.

“Being a living wage employer is not only beneficial to our staff’s quality of life, but also beneficial to the business as a whole when the people working here are happy to be a part of the team. Our clinic’s tagline being “your concern is our concern” does not only apply to our clients/patients,” says ClaraDerma+ co-owners Alicia Yap and Olenka Allison. Continue reading →

A Call on All of Us to Speak Out for Putting Our Species and Others before Stones and Gravel

A Call-Out from Ontario Nature, a not-for-profit, non-partisan citizens’ advocacy group for protecting and preserving Ontario’s natural heritage 

Posted October 14th, 2019 on Niagara At Large 

Here we go again.

Relentless in the pursuit of its “open for business” agenda, the Government of Ontario wants to weaken protections for nature in order to fast-track development.

Specifically, the government aims to make potentially devastating amendments to Ontario’s Provincial Policy Statement (PPS) which would permit pits and quarries on sensitive landscapes across the province.

Ontarians cannot let these proposed changes fly under the radar. If you agree, please join Ontario Nature in voicing your concern. Continue reading →

Niagara Centre NDP MPP Jeff Burch

“Each day that children ,,, are denied much needed therapy, it is another day their full potential for success and growth is thwarted by your government’s inaction on getting funding finalized.” – Niagara Centre NDP MPP Jeff Burch

An ‘Urgent Open Letter’ from Niagara Centre MPP Jeff Burch to Ford’s Minister of Children, Community and Social Services

Posted October 16^th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

Signs like this have become commonplace in Ontario since Doug Ford’s Ontario Conservatives were elected to power in June, 2018.

Dear Minister Todd Smith:

I am sending this urgent letter on behalf of constituent Joe Seranni of Welland who has yet to see any provincial funding to provide much needed therapy for his son Ashton.

Ashton, who was 3 years old when his father applied in March, has been diagnosed with autism and his Physician recommended 10 hours of applied behaviour analysis (ABA) therapy a week.

Joe will tell you almost in tears the advances his son has made with the limited therapy he is now getting weekly that he is paying out of pocket. Otherwise, there would be no therapy at all. Continue reading →

‘The province’s new rules on climate change are limited to preparing for its “potential” impacts. … There are no policies within the (Ford government’s revised Provincial Policy Statement) document which speak to the importance of taking measures now to prevent or avoid climate change,” declares a City of Hamilton staff report.

A News Article by the Hamilton-based citizens’ watchdog group, Citizens At City Hall (CATCH)

(This article was originally posted on September 30th, 2019 in CATCH’s online newsletter at http://hamiltoncatch.org/list_articles.php .)

Posted October 15th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

Bulldozing over ever more paradise to make way for more low-density, urban sprawl.

Hamilton, Ontario – City staff are challenging yet another massive rewrite of planning rules by the provincial government. Planning staff oppose the province’s proposed elimination of policies to fight climate change and protect sensitive natural areas.

They are also questioning “market based” changes that will make it easier for developers to pave over farmland and effectively shift planning approvals “from a municipal-led approach to a developer-led one.”

Municipalities are facing a major revision of the Provincial Policy Statement (PPS), the document which sets out the overriding rules that all land use planning in Ontario “must be consistent with”.  The PPS directs policies on housing, infrastructure, transportation, economic development, aggregate extraction, land servicing arrangements and other municipal activities. Continue reading →

Ontario Premier Doug Ford issued the following statement on Thanksgiving Day, 2o19

Posted October 14th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

Ontario Premier Doug Ford wishes Ontarians a happy Thanksgiving

Toronto — “Today, people across Ontario will come together to celebrate Thanksgiving. It’s a time to be thankful for the many good things in each of our own lives.

We all have our different traditions, whether it’s carving a turkey, volunteering at the local soup kitchen, or giving thanks before sharing a meal with loved ones.

On this day, I also want to recognize and give thanks for the work of our first responders and our Canadian service members. They go above and beyond every day to keep us safe and healthy.

From my family to yours, wishing you a very Happy Thanksgiving.” – Ontario Premier Doug Ford

End of Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s Statement and the News Release circulated by Ontario News

The above image obviously did not come from the Ontario government’s news media reps with the Premier’s Thanksgiving statement.

A Thanksgiving Footnote from Niagara At Large –

In this photo, circulated in social media before the 2018 provincial elections, here is then-Ontario Conservative Party leader Doug Ford posing with this then Niagara Centre Riding candidate April Jeffs

And  if we don’t have enough to be thankful for this Thanksgiving season, consider the following. 

We now have April Jeffs , a former Wainfleet mayor and a former member of the board of directors of the Niaagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) under the management of past NPCA administrators, including  Carmen D’Angelo and David Barrick, and Doug Ford’s former  Niagara Centre Riding candidate in the 2018 Ontario election, running as the Conservative/Andrew Scheer candidate in the Niagara Centre Riding in this federal election.

Is the turkey ready yet?

To review the special report Ontario Auditor General Bonnie Lysyk released a year ago this September onoperations at the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority under the administration of the NPCA’s past administrators and board of directors, click on – http://www.auditor.on.ca/en/content/specialreports/specialreports/NPCA_en.pdf .

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 reminder that we only post comments by individuals who also share their first and last names.

For more news and commentary from Niagara At Large – an independent, alternative voice for our greater bi-national Niagara region – become a regular visitor and subscriber to NAL at http://www.niagaraatlarge.com .

“A politician thinks of the next election. a leader thinks of the next generation.” – Bernie Sanders

A Message from Ontario Nature, a non-partisan, public advocacy group for protecting and preserving our natural heritage 

Posted October 13^th, 2019 on Niagara At Large 

Are you ready to vote for nature?  

You don’t need to wait in line on October 21st. Advance voting has already started and runs through the holiday Monday, October 14th.

Here’s what you need: 

Continue reading →

“Nine out of 10 Canadians are concerned with plastics pollution in groundwater sources and drinking water, almost nine out of 10 are concerned about plastics pollution in soil and food eaten.”

A Message to All Candidates in this Federal Election from Friends of the Earth, one of the more time-honoured environmental groups on the plant

Posted October 13th, 2019 on Niagara At Large

Ottawa, Ontario – Half way through the federal election, Friends of the Earth Canada has a message for Canadian politicians. 

The electorate wants action to stop plastics pollution: 86% of Canadians want you to take more action on plastics as a way of reducing climate harmful greenhouse gases. And 8 out 10 Canadians will support you to ban production and use of single-use disposable plastic containers and packaging.

Friends of the Earth is releasing its new national poll with six questions on plastics pollution. Oraclepoll Research Limited conducted the 1,200 person national poll on behalf of Friends of the Earth between September 20-23 (margin of error for total N=1,200 sample is ± 2.8%, 19 times out of 20). Complete results are attached to the release – including vote intent breakout by question. Continue reading →