Author Archives: dougdraper

A Statement by the Prime Minister of Canada on airstrikes in Syria

Posted April 14th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, issued the following statement today on airstrikes in Syria:

“Canada condemns in the strongest possible terms the use of chemical weapons in last week’s attack in eastern Ghouta, Syria.

“Canada supports the decision by the United States, the United Kingdom, and France to take action to degrade the Assad regime’s ability to launch chemical weapons attacks against its own people. Continue reading →

Wynne’s Broken Promises Send Auto Rates In The Wrong Direction

Niagara Falls Riding MPP Wayne Gates

A Statement by Ontario NDP transportation critic and Niagara Falls MPP Wayne Gates

Posted April 13^th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Queen’s Park – Ontario NDP transportation critic Wayne Gates issued the following statement:

“Once again Ontario drivers are being forced to dig deeper into their pockets to pay for their auto insurance because Kathleen Wynne broke her promise to bring down rates by 15 per cent. Continue reading →

A News Release from Brock University in St. Catharines/Niagara

Posted April 13^th,, 2018 on Niagara At Large

This exam room and all others will be closed at Brock University this Saturday, April 14th due to ice storm threat

Niagara, Ontario – Brock University is cancelling all exams scheduled for Saturday, April 14 after Environment Canada declared the growing likelihood of an ice storm this weekend.

To minimize travel and protect personal safety, exams scheduled for Saturday will now take place on Thursday, April 26. Times and location will be posted next week.

Some 55 exams had been scheduled for throughout the day Saturday, starting in the morning and running until 10 p.m.

In addition, the annual Sankey Lecture hosted by Brock’s Department of History that was scheduled for Sunday has been cancelled and will be rescheduled at a later date. Continue reading →

A News Release from Ontario’s Progressive Conservative Party

Posted April 13^th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Ontario PC Leader Doug Ford vows to axe Hydro One boss

Toronto, Ontario — This April 12th, Ontario PC Leader Doug Ford  announced his intention to fire the current CEO, as well as the entire Board, of Hydro One, and put an end to the Liberal practice of making millionaires on the backs of taxpayers, should the Ontario PCs form government after June 7.  

 “It is morally indefensible, at a time when seniors are fearful of heating their own homes, when businesses are closing down and good jobs are moving out of our province, and when taxpayers are facing financial hardships – all due to skyrocketing hydro bills – that this Board and this CEO are laughing themselves to the bank,” said Ford. Continue reading →

P.R. Campaign Launched On How Great Niagara Has Been Doing Over Past Three Years

A Brief News Commentary by Doug Draper

Posted April 13^th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – An issue that seemed to have lots of Niagara area residents up in arms in recent days over what is going on in regional government is being addressed.

Niagara regional chair Al Caslin

This past Thursday, April 12^th, following a protest rally engaged in by a couple dozen people in front of Niagara’s regional headquarters, The Region’s Chair Al Caslin remained at the helm while a majority on the regional council agreed to direct the ADR Chambers – the firm already on contract to investigate code of conduct complaints for the Caslin council – to investigate any and all allegation that 2016 process for hiring the Region’s current CAO, Carmen D’Angelo, may have been compromised or corrupted.

There was no request by anyone on the regional council that Caslin, whose office may have been the source of a confidential memo Angelo is alleged to have received about other candidates for the CAO position before he was hired, should step aside during the Thursday night discussion over how to address the allegation,

Caslin simply went on – totally uncontested – chairing the proceedings, while D’Angelo sat to his right, looking relative calm as if all of this was just another evening of regional council business. Continue reading →

One week only –  April 23rd to -27th

A News Release from Niagara’s regional government

Posted April 13^th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – Residents across Niagara are being asked to bring their batteries to the curb for a special one-week collection this spring.

Residents of single-family homes and apartments with up to six units will be able to place their used or unwanted batteries at the curb on their regular collection day the week of April 23 – 27.

This special, one-week only collection gives residents in all Niagara municipalities the opportunity to conveniently keep used and unwanted batteries out of our landfills. All batteries collected will be recycled. Continue reading →

Investigation In To Alleged Irregularities Around Hiring Of CAO Carmen D’Angelo Must Be As Independent As Possible

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

Posted April 11th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Okay, let me try to put what  I am about to say as bluntly as I can without restoring  any of the seven words George Carlin once warned against ever  using on television.

Niagara regional chair Al Caslin should keep his nose out of the CAO hiring contrsoversy

That’s my pledge to keep my language as clean as possible. So with that and three deep breaths, here I go –

There is no damn way in a fair and just world that Niagara regional chair Al Caslin or anyone else who had anything directly to do with the selection of candidates for the Region’s top staff position of Chief Administrative Officer (CAO ) two years ago should have anything to do with an investigation into alleged irregularities or wrongdoing around the hiring of the Region’s current CAO, Carmen D’Angelo.

That means absolutely anything! In the interest of avoiding any perception of a conflict of interest, it means nothing at all! Continue reading →

This free one-day event features films from Jay Cheel and Edward Burtynsky

News from the FirstOntario Performing Arts in St. Catharines/Niagara

Posted April 10^th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – In celebration of the fifth annual National Canadian Film Day the FirstOntario Performing Arts Centre will offer a free screening of two documentaries in The Film House on Wednesday 18 April at 7pm.

National Canadian Film Day’s mandate is to encourage all Canadians to celebrate the incredible achievements of the nation’s filmmakers.

 Last year, National Canadian Film Day 150 was an event of unprecedented size and scope, which reached an astonishing number of people across the country and around the world. This year The Film House is proud to present two documentaries made by local St. Catharines filmmakers. Continue reading →

“We are learning seemingly every week that there is truly ‘something rotten in Denmark’. …The citizens of Niagara deserve the best people and a government with the highest standards of honesty and integrity. Anything less is not acceptable.”

A Commentary by Dennis Edell, Niagara Chapter president for Trout Unlimited Canada

Posted April 10th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Region’s CAO Carmen D’Angelo. Less than two years into his contract, is it time for him to say goodbye?

Niagara, Ontario  – The St. Catharines Standard last week (April 6th) reported that their dogged investigative journalists had uncovered a memo from Niagara regional chair Alan Caslin’s office that was sent to Carmen D’Angelo who was then one of several candidates for the regional Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) job.

This shocking memo – reportedly disclosed to Mr. D’Angelo – the names and bios of the other candidates for the position for which he was vying.

At that point the competition to find a suitable candidate for the highest non-elected municipal office in Niagara was hopelessly polluted.  Any chance of a fair competition to find the best person for the most important job in the Region was lost. Continue reading →

Motion Also Calls for Local Municipalities To Appoint Members With Proper “Skillset” for Conservation to NPCA Board

A News Commentary from Doug Draper

Posted April 10^th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority’s current CAO Mark Brickell fails to convince Port Colborne’s city council enough to defeat motion calling for sweeping out current NPCA board.

Niagara, Ontario – Following efforts by the NPCA’s CAO Mark Brickell to defend the Niagara Peninsula Conservative for its “effectiveness” and its “openness and transparency,” Port Colborne’s city council voted to approve a motion to have the NPCA’s board replaced with individuals appointed by local municipalities rather than the regional government.

The motion, tabled by Port Colborne city councillor Barbara Butters, will be circulated to other local councils in Niagara for consideration and reads as follows –

WHEREAS Port Colborne City Council is aware of concerns in the community that the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) has demonstrated an inability to operate as an effective, open and transparent Conservation Authority, that respects its mandate; Continue reading →

Province Partners with Local Business to Strengthen Economy and Create Jobs

Silversmith Brewing Company brings a wealth of character and charm to the region, and this partnership will contribute to our community’s continued prosperity.” — Jim Bradley, MPP for St. Catharines

A News Release from the  Constituency Office of St. Catharines MPP Jim Bradley

Posted April 10th, 2018 on Niagara At Large  

St. Catharines MPP Jim Bradley

Niagara, Ontario – Ontario is partnering with Silversmith Brewing Company to help create 10 jobs and retain 15 existing positions in Niagara.

Jim Bradley, MPP for St. Catharines, made the announcement today at Silversmith Brewing Company on behalf of Jeff Leal, Minister Responsible for Small Business.

Silversmith Brewing Company is an independent craft beer brewery known for its award-winning Black Lager — a first of its kind in Ontario. Continue reading →

Region Should Leave It To Local Municipalities To Appoint Board Members With Proper “Skillset” For Conservation To NPCA

Motion Is On The Table For Debate This Monday, April 9th When Port Colborne Council Meets At 6:30 P.M.

A Brief News Commentary by Doug Draper

Posted April 9^th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Port Colborne city councilor Barbara Butters to table motion calling for total overhaul of NPCA board and the way board members are appointed.

Niagara, Ontario – This past November, Port Colborne’s city council was the first of a number of local councils across Niagara to call on the Ontario government to establish the powers to take control of a Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) a majority on that council argued has demonstrated a lack of will and ability to carry out a conservation mandate in an effective, open and transparent manner.

This Monday, April 9^th, the same Port Colborne council may be the first to call on Niagara’s regional government to turn to Niagara’s 12 local municipalities’ responsibilities for appointing members to the NPCA’s board of directors for the very same reason.

“Port Colborne City Council is aware of concerns in the community that the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) has demonstrated an inability to operate as an effective, open and transparent Conservation Authority, that respects its mandate,” says the motion expected to be tabled at Port Colborne council meeting by City Councillor Barbara Butters. Continue reading →

 A Message from Ontario’s Niagara Parks Commission

Posted April 8^th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Falls, Ontario – The Niagara Falls Illumination Board will illuminate Niagara Falls in the colours of green and gold this evening (Sunday, April 8^th), as a symbol of binational support for the residents of Humboldt, Saskatchewan as they deal with the pain and shock emanating from Friday’s terrible crash.

In honour of those who were killed or injured, both the American and Canadian Horseshoe Falls will be illuminated from 9:00 p.m. to 9:15 pm. Continue reading →

A message from Niagara At Large publisher Doug Draper

Posted April 7th, 2018

At least these flowers have been in bloom inside our kitchen window.

Due to some gremlins on this side and more than a few sleepless nights over the past week, some news and commentary pieces have been sent out to our subscribers and other readers more than once.

That has certainly been the case with one of the latest commentaries, headlined – Niagara Regional Chair, CAO Have A Lot To Answer For.

If you shared a comment with Niagara At Large on any of the earlier versions of this on any other piece that popped up more than once, you would have to resend that comment in the comment area available under the latest posted version. We cannot post comments for other people.

Very sorry for any inconvenience or confusion this has caused.

We ask for your patience and some real spring weather would be nice too.

Stay Tune for more news and commentary on Niagara At Large in the days and weeks ahead.

NIAGARA AT LARGE encourages you to join the conversation by sharing your views on this post in the space below the Bernie quote.

For more news and commentary from Niagara At Large – an independent, alternative voice for our greater binational 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

If St. Catharines Standard Story is Correct, both Al Caslin and Carmen D’Angelo should be fired out of their jobs – ASAP!

A Commentary by Niagara At Large reporter and publisher Doug Draper

Posted April 7th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

I do not often send Niagara At Large  readers off to other venues for news. I prefer to keep them here, but please listen up because this is different.

If you are reside in Niagara, Ontario – if you live, work and pay taxes in this region – then the front page story in the Friday, April 6th edition of The St. Catharines Standard is a MUST READ.

There are many good people who were opposed to the hiring of Carmen D’Angelo, who was CAO at the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) to the position of Chief Administrative Officer of Niagara’s regional government right from the start. Continue reading →

Regional Chair’s ‘Shape Niagara’ Strategic Planning Pitch Carries  The Stench  Of An Election Year Stunt

A Commentary by Niagara At Large reporter and publisher Doug Draper

Posted updated to April 6th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Declaring he has his “hands on the wheel (and) eyes on the road,” Niagara regional chair Al Caslin delivers his ‘State of the Region’ address late this March to a Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce audience. Photo by Doug Draper

It was the last week of March – Wednesday, March 28^th, 2018, to be precise – and I was returning from the luncheon the Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce hosts each year for the “State of the Region” address.

The address was delivered by Niagara’s regional chair Al Caslin and even by his standards, it was one of the most anaemic speeches I have heard from an elected leader in my more than 35 years of covering these things.

What may have been intended as applause lines from Caslin’s address, including one about how Niagara Region was going to “rise above local politics, media headlines and deliver what residents want” were still lumbering around my mind, when I opened up my computer to a news release from Niagara’s regional government with a headline on it that read – “Have Your Say On The Niagara Regional Council’s 2019 – 2022 Strategic Plan.” Continue reading →

A News Release from Niagara, Ontario’s Regional Government

Posted April 5th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Join Niagara Region in celebrating Earth Week 2018 by participating in the following activities, which are provided to residents free of charge. Finish off the week with Earth Day on April 22, 2018 and celebrate the largest environmental event in the world at home with your family and friends.

Recycling Centre Tour – Wednesday, April 18, 11:15 a.m. and 1:15 p.m.
4935 Kent Ave., Niagara Falls

The sorting plant where our recycled waste goes

Join Niagara Region and Niagara Recycling for a 45-minute guided tour of Niagara Region’s Recycling Centre. Learn first-hand about the machines, processes and people that sort, bale and ship your recyclables. Continue reading →

Chamber  wants to have it Both Ways – Affordable Energy Bills and Costly Nuclear Power Plant too

A News Release from the Ontario Clean Air Alliance, a province-wide citizens group

Posted April 5th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

The Ontario Chamber of Commerce has spent the last few years predicting that rising electricity prices would doom the province’s businesses and drive its economy into the ditch.

So it is a bit puzzling that the Chamber, in a piece of “research” sponsored by Ontario Power Generation (OPG), favours keeping a nuclear plant with the highest operating costs in North America running until 2024 instead of importing low-cost water power from Quebec.

The Chamber sees a potential business bonanza in the billions of dollars that OPG intends to spend on rebuilding old reactors. Which is great if you are a supplier of nuclear components. Continue reading →

A Brief Message from NAL reporter and publisher Doug Draper

Posted April 4^th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Join the call for justice for former NPCA employee Jocelyn Baker

Since Niagara At Large posted a commentary this past April 3rd by a new group called Friends of Jocelyn Baker, many people have already emailed us or taken to Facebook and other social media venues to encourage even more people to join the call for justice for the former NPCA employee who has been sued by a Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority that has a record of using our tax dollars to sue, censure or throw out of work individuals who say and do things it doesn’t like.

The following Call-Out by Niagara, Ontario resident Emily Beth is an example of what has been happening since the commentary from Friends of Jocelyn Baker was posted on NAL this April 3rd, and her is some of it followed by Emily Beth’s Facebook link so that you can read the rest –

PLEASE HELP: Longtime former Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority employee Jocelyn Baker needs our support. WRITE OUR REPRESENTATIVES ON THE NPCA BOARD AND LET THEM KNOW YOU SUPPORT JOCELYN AND THE LAWSUIT MUST BE DROPPED. Continue reading →

MLK was cut down by the ill-winds of anger and hate on April 4th, 1968

A Comment from Gary Screaton Page, a Fort Erie resident and regular Niagara At Large reader

Posted April 4th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech still sends shivers up my spine.

Without question he was a gifted orator. The speech is truly one of the greatest ever delivered. I keep it mounted on my office wall: a continual reminder of how love can conquer hate.

What a contrast to the diatribes of Donald Trump as he Tweets his lies and venom: hateful writing far too often.
Continue reading →

‘The taxpayers of Niagara do not fund the NPCA with their tax dollars so that it can pursue lawsuits, under any circumstance, against private citizens. We expect the NPCA to spend our money on conservation efforts.’

A Message from Friends of Jocelyn Baker, a Niagara, Ontario-based citizen group organized in support of former NPCA employee Jocelyn Baker.

Posted April 3rd, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Something significant may have happened at the board meeting of the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) this past March 26th.

Former NPCA employee and respected watershed restoration expert Jocelyn Baker still facing NPCA lawsuit – a legal suit filed against a member of the public with public tax funded  dollars. When will the use of our tax money to go after citizens end?

Welland Mayor Frank Campion, one of the majority of politicians Niagara’s regional council appointed to the 15-member board, appeared to make a move towards common sense leadership that has rarely been demonstrated by this board.

The details are a little bit thin at the moment but it appears that Mayor Campion has started a motion that could result in the board reconsidering the NPCA decision to sue former employee Jocelyn Baker.

The NPCA launched legal action against Baker in response to an email she sent last year to Niagara area MPP Cindy Forster.  The email apparently described conditions of employment at the NPCA that included harassment of staff.

For reasons unknown, Baker – respected on both sides of the Niagara River for her dedicated efforts to restore and protect the watershed – was terminated from the NPCA more than a year ago after 23 years of service. Shortly thereafter she sent the email to her MPP. Continue reading →

“I have some very sad news for all of you, and, I think, sad news for all of our fellow citizens, and people who love peace all over the world; and that is that Martin Luther King was shot and was killed tonight in Memphis, Tennessee.” – from a brief statement by then Senator and U.S. presidential candidate Bobby Kennedy, in Indianapolis, Indiana on the evening of April 4th, 1968

A Brief Commentary and Remembrance by Doug Draper

Posted April 2^nd, 2018 on Niagara At Large

He was, without a word of doubt from this commentator, one of the most passionate and courageous voices for brotherly and sisterly love, for peace from war and for social justice who walked the surface of this earth in the last hundred years.

Fifty years ago this April 4^th, 2018, Martin Luther King, the great civil rights leader who dared to dream of a day when his children and all children will live in a world where “they will not be judged by the colour of their skin, but by the content of their character,” was cut by forces of anger and hate while in Memphis, Tennessee, supporting striking a group of grossly underpaid and exploited sanitation workers. Continue reading →

You are invited to a meeting in Niagara, Ontario on April 5th and in Hamilton, Ontario on April 23rd

More details on Ontario Health Coalition Upcoming Events and Meetings Below

A Call-Out from the Ontario Health Coalition

Posted April 2nd, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Local health care coalitions are working on fighting hospital cuts, protecting public health care for all, against privatization and 2-tier user fees for patients, improving home care and long-term care, stopping the privatization of primary care, improving quality and reducing wait times, protecting democratic decision-making and public access to information about our health care institutions and system.

Local coalitions are open to anyone who is interested and who supports the aims and values of the health coalition — to safeguard and improve public health care for all under the principles of equity and fairness that are embodied in the Canada Health Act. Continue reading →

Stealing  a Page from Trump Playbook, Long-time Friendly Neighbours Ramp Up For Cross-Border Trade War of their Own

Niagara At Large is posting the tit-for-tat statement from the Office of Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne

April 2nd, 2018 (April Fool’s Day if over. The following statement really came from the Ontario Premier’s Office.)

Premier Kathleen Wynne released the following statement this April 2nd on the introduction of an Ontario regulation to level the playing field in response to New York State’s “Buy American” legislation:

Hey, New York State, want a cross-border trade war? It’s an election year in Ontario and province’s premier is vowing to fight back.

“I have consistently supported open and competitive procurement because it helps create good jobs on both sides of the border, but it has to be a two-way street. When Ontario workers and businesses are threatened by protectionist U.S. actions I have no choice but to respond. I will not let New York, or any other state, tilt the field in their favour without taking appropriate action.

Last month Ontario passed the Fairness in Procurement Act, 2018, so that the province would have the ability to respond to unfair “Buy American” practices by U.S. states, including those which took effect in New York State this April 1st. Continue reading →

Canadian, U.S. Leaders Discuss Swapping Tar-Stained Alberta for Democrat-Infested, West Coast States

Posted April 1^st, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and U.S. President Donald Trump have reportedly set aside trade talks between the two countries and Mexico to focus on what could be a milestone agreement to swap the Province of Alberta for three west coast states of California, Oregon and Washington.

Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, U.S. President Donald Trump negotiating unprecedented land swap between two countries.

If the agreement goes through, Canada stands to benefit from the inclusion of three states that, in the case of California alone, represent an economic powerhouse rivalling the European Union and Great Britain combined.

And what does the United States have to gain from all this.

First and foremost, the U.S. would adopt a province that is very much like the coal-mining state of West Virginia in the sense that both are largely tied to sources of energy more relevant to economic growth the 19^th and 20^th centuries. In the case of Alberta, of course, that energy is oil derived from tar strip mined from the province’s once lush, forested northern regions. Continue reading →

“The (Hydro One) CEO’s $6.2-million paycheque is over eight times what the CEO made when Hydro One was owned by the people of Ontario.” – Ontario NDP Leader Andrea Horwath

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA

A Statement from Ontario NDP Leader Andrea Horwath

Posted March 31st, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Queen’s Park, Toronto – Ontario NDP leader Andrea Horwath issued the following statement regarding pay raises at Hydro One:

 “Seeing the executives at Hydro One take massive raises is a slap in the face to the hard-working Ontario families being gouged on their hydro bills as a result of Kathleen Wynne’s disastrous sell-off of our public utilities. Continue reading →

“This investment by the Ontario government reaffirms its commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions on university campuses. This will allow the province of Ontario and its post-secondary institutions to lead by example when it comes to being energy efficient.” – St. Catharines MPP and Ontario Liberal government member Jim Bradley

A News Release from Brock  University

Posted March 31, 2018 on Niagara At Large 

An aerial view of Brock University’s campus above the Niagara Escarpment in St. Catharines, Ontario

Niagara, Ontario  – The second phase of a massive project to upgrade Brock University’s co-generation power facility is moving forward after an Ontario government funding announcement made Tuesday, March 27 in Toronto.

The Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Development (MAESD) announced $85.2 million in funding for eight Ontario universities through its Greenhouse Gas Campus Retrofits Program (GGCRP) Innovation Grant Fund. The GGCRP is designed to help post-secondary institutions reduce their greenhouse gas emissions and improve energy efficiency. Continue reading →

‘Peter Kormos was known around Ontario as a champion for working class people.’

A News Release from Sudbary, Ontario area MPP and NDP health critic France Gélinas

Posted March 30th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Peter Kormos, a long-time political representative in Niagara and champion for everyday people across Ontario, passed away five years ago this spring at age 60. His fighting spirit is sorely missed now.

Queen’s Park, Toronto — This March 29th, MPP France Gélinas introduced the Peter Kormos Memorial Act (Trillium Gift of Life Network Amendment) and An Act to amend the Labour Relations Act, 1995 to commemorate the fifth anniversary of Kormos’ passing.

An ardent supporter of organ donation, Kormos made many speeches and introduced numerous pieces of legislation to expand organ collection in Ontario. The Peter Kormos Memorial Act (Trillium Gift of Life Network Amendment) would amend the Trillium Gift of Life Network Act to have people opt out of organ donation rather than opt in.

If a person, or their representative, objects to any organ donation, no donation will take place. Continue reading →

“We, your teachers in Buffalo and across the country, are very proud of you. You give us hope for the future.”

“Don’t give up hope. We are with you.”

Posted by Doug Draper this March 30th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

The March For Our Lives rally this March 2018 in Buffalo, New York. Photo by Doug Draper

While in Buffalo, New York visiting a loved one this past March 29th,  I opened the latest (March 28th) issue of a weekly Buffalo area paper called ‘The Public’ to a message that is very moving and worth sharing with everyone during these often troubled times.

The message came in the form of a full-page open letter from members of the Buffalo Teachers Association. It was a message  to their young students and to so many others who organized and participated in ‘March For Our Lives’ rallies across the United States and other countries, including Canada, around this world earlier this March.

As I read the teachers’ open letter, I remember thinking that when I was a high school student in late 1960s, going into the 1970s, I had a few great teachers who encouraged us to go out and rally for peace, environmental protection and other issues that we faced in our present and future lives. Continue reading →

Niagara Falls MPP Wayne Gates

“The good news—in a few short months we are going to bring in an NDP government that will end hallway medicine, make life more affordable for working families and seniors, help students address their student debt, and solve our long-term care crisis.” – Wayne Gates

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

Posted March 30th, 2018, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario — In the wake of  Ontario’s Wynne government tabling its 2018 budget this March 28th, NDP MPP for Niagara Falls Wayne Gates made the following statement regarding the 2018 provincial budget:

Niagara Falls Riding MPP Wayne Gates in Ontario legislature. File photo

“The key highlights of this budget are truly a disappointment for working people in Niagara. There is nothing in this budget to help middle class families get ahead, nothing to end hallway medicine in Niagara and it surely does not solve our long-term care crisis.
No matter how the Liberals may want to spin this, the budget does not provide Ontarians with universal prescription drug coverage or dental care that they deserve. Their dental plan isn’t up to the job–$50 a year for dental for children wouldn’t even pay for a single check-up.

There is nothing in this budget to make housing more affordable for renters in Niagara. Continue reading →

But Chamber Also Urges Ontario Government to show Deficit Caution

A News Release from the Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce

Posted March 29th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – The Government of Ontario released its 2018 budget this past Wednesday, March 28th.

The Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce (GNCC) had previously offered comments from Niagara’s business community at a budget consultation on January 29th with MPP Yvan Baker, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Finance, and MPP Jim Bradley, St. Catharines. The GNCC also submitted written comments directly to Finance Minister Charles Sousa.

We acknowledge the Government of Ontario’s openness and its collaborative attitude, and are pleased to see our suggestions reflected in some of the budgetary items announced today. Continue reading →

A News Release from Niagara College in Niagara, Ontario

Posted March 29th, 2017 on Niagara At Large

Niagara College President Dan Patterson

Niagara, Ontario – The Ontario government’s 2018 budget investments will ensure more students have access to college programs that open the door to rewarding and meaningful employment.

“The budget delivers some important investments in student success,” said Niagara College president Dan Patterson. “Niagara College graduates are driving the growth of key industries in Niagara, and this will help us produce more grads who provide the skills and knowledge that is pivotal to success in today’s economy.” Continue reading →

Ontario Continuing to Invest in Health Care, Child Care and Transit

“Whether it’s providing free child care, making prescription drugs free for everyone 65 and over through OHIP+, or expanding GO rail transit to Niagara, our government understands the needs of our community and is willing to make investments that will help more families get ahead.” Jim Bradley, MPP, St. Catharines

St. Catharines MPP Jim Bradley

A News Release from the Constituency Office of St. Catharines MPP Jim Bradley

Posted March 29^th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – This past Wednesday, March 28^th, the government released the 2018 Budget, which includes significant new investments in health care, child care, home care, and transit, along with new measures to create more job opportunities for people across the Niagara Region.

If passed, the 2018 Budget would expand OHIP+ with free prescription drugs for everyone 65 and over, improve mental health care and addictions services, and introduce free preschool child care for children aged two-and-a-half until eligible for kindergarten. Continue reading →

“The Liberals have had 15 years to get good things done for people.” Ontario NDP Leader Andrea Horwath

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

Posted March 29th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Ontario NDP Leader Andrea Horwath

Queen’s Park, Toronto  – Kathleen Wynne’s final budget is a disappointing, last-ditch pitch for votes – with the details failing to live up to her vote-grabbing hype.

 “It’s clear that Kathleen Wynne believes it’s more important for her to look good than for people to feel good,” said NDP Leader Andrea Horwath. “This is why people are disappointed. This is why people are cynical about politics. And this is why Ontarians are looking forward to electing a new premier in June.

 “It’s time to replace that cynicism with hope – with a premier that will deliver better health care, and a more affordable life for everyone.” Continue reading →

A News Release from the Constituency Office of  Niagara West-Glanbrook MPP Sam Oosterhoff

Niagara West-Glanbrook MPP Sam Oosterhoff

Statement from Niagara West-Glanbrook MPP Sam Oosterhoff in response to the Liberal government’s 2018 budget

Posted March 29th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

This  March 28^th’s Ontario Liberal government  budget has given us what we have come to expect from Kathleen Wynne. The Liberals have promised to raise taxes even more and put our province even further into debt.”

“Far from the balanced budget that they had promised, the Liberals plan to run a 6.7 billion dollar deficit this year. We will be in a deficit until at least 2024.” Continue reading →

Niagara Regional Chair Al Caslin

“To achieve Niagara’s true potential, we must forge the next phase of Niagara’s path together. As Niagara Region launches“Shape Niagara”, the largest strategic consultation effort in Niagara’s history, we must be bold. … Regional Council looks forward to residents, businesses, and community organizations seizing the opportunity to provide input on how they would like to shape the exciting future of Niagara.”   ~ Alan Caslin, Niagara Regional Chair

A News Release from Niagara, Ontario’s regional government

Posted March 28th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Region’s heaquarters in Thorold/Niagara.

Niagara, Ontario – Starting today (this passing Wednesday, March 28th) , Niagara Region is inviting residents, businesses and community leaders to share how they would like to “Shape Niagara” by providing their ideas and feedback about what should be included in Council’s next strategic plan.

Feedback shared with the Region will form part of a background study that will inform the next term of Council’s strategic plan deliberations. Continue reading →

Costs of Dental Care in Ontario Have Got to be Brought Under Control!

“Being a dentist is a license to print money. They have to be rubbing their hands together in wait of government-paid billing!!! “

A Commentary by Carla Rienzo

I do not contest what the Ontario New Democratic Party is proposing, particularly if it is paid for by closing legal tax shelter loopholes for the rich.

But I do want to pose this question: “Why isn’t anyone questioning the ridiculously high cost of dental services?” Continue reading →

Sign the Petition Below and Pass it on to your Friends

More than 220,000 Going on 300,000 have already Signed!

A Call-Out for Humane Action from the animal advocacy group ‘Friends of Ruth & Emily

Posted March 28th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

(A Brief Intro Note from Niagara At Large – If you follow NAL on a regular basis, you know that we care a great deal for the welfare of all creatures on this planet, great and small. In that spirit, we are posting this.)

Buttonwood Park Zoo: Please Allow Ruth & Emily to be Relocated to The Elephant Sanctuary

Ruth and Emily are aging Asian elephants living in deplorable conditions at the Buttonwood Park Zoo in New Bedford, Massachusetts. They endure extreme heat/cold and live in an enclosure that would be much too small for a single elephant. Both elephants, especially Ruth, regularly display behavioral patterns consistent with extreme stress.

Ruth and Emily

Even by the lowest of standards, Ruth and Emily are incompatible- a violation of the USDA’s Animal Welfare Act. Continue reading →

A News Release from the Canadian Chamber of Marine Commerce

Posted March 28th, 2018 on Niagara At Large 

Chamber of Marine Commerce statement on new government measures to protect North Atlantic Right Whales

Ottawa, Ontario — The Chamber of Marine Commerce is issuing the following statement in response to today’s announcement by Transport Canada and Fisheries and Oceans Canada on shipping mitigation measures in the Gulf of St. Lawrence to help protect North Atlantic Right Whales.

Bruce Burrows, President to the Chamber of Marine Commerce, said: “We are pleased that the government has taken into account industry and academic input and moved forward with two dynamic shipping routes north and south of Anticosti Island.” Continue reading →

A Message from Canada’s Green Party Leader Elizabeth May

Posted March 28th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Dear Friends,

I was arrested on Friday (this past March 23rd) for protesting Kinder Morgan’s risky pipeline and tanker scheme.

Canadian Green Party Leader Elizabeth May arrested at protest over tar sands pipeline in B.C.

Violating an injunction is not a step I took lightly. Continue reading →

Horwath motion calls for universal access to              drug coverage, dental care

‘Premier Kathleen Wynne and the Liberals have had 15 years to fix this. … They chose not to.’ – Ontario NDP Leader Andrea Horwath

A News Release from the Office of Ontario’s NDP Leader

Posted March 27^th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Ontario NDP Leader Andrea Horwath

Queen’s Park, Toronto – Ontario NDP leader Andrea Horwath has introduced a motion at Queen’s Park to give all Ontarians pharmacare and dental care now, regardless of age, income, job status or health status.

“I love Ontario, and I want everyone to be able to build their best life, right here,” said Horwath. “But too many people in Ontario are being forced to go without the care they need because Kathleen Wynne has let them down. No one should ever have to leave the doctor’s office with a prescription they can’t afford to fill.” Continue reading →

Providing Free preschool Child Care for Children Aged Two and a Half to Kindergarten

“Not being able to find or afford child care is stressful, it is troubling, and it is holding families back at a time when it’s already hard enough to get ahead. Our plan to make preschool child care free for Ontario children from the age of two-and-a-half until kindergarten will relieve that pressure and make sure kids are learning and growing in a safe environment.” – Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne

A News Release from the Office of the Ontario Premier

Posted March 27^th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

This March 27^th, Premier Kathleen Wynne announced that full-day licensed child care will become free for preschool children from the age of two-and-a-half until they are eligible to start kindergarten, beginning in 2020. Free preschool child care will save families an estimated $17,000 per child, allow parents to go back to work when they choose and help give children the best start in life.

The Premier was joined today at Nelson Mandela Park Public School in Toronto by Charles Sousa, Minister of Finance, and Indira Naidoo-Harris, Minister of Education and Minister Responsible for Early Years and Child Care, to talk about how Ontario’s new investment of $2.2 billion over three years will expand access to affordable child care across the province, ease the financial burden families are facing in our changing economy, and deliver free licensed child care for children from the age of two-and-a-half until kindergarten, beginning in 2020. Continue reading →

Anyone can participate by filling out their nominations for each individual award category. See Details Below

A News Release from Pride Niagara

Posted March 27th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

 Pride Niagara is happy to announce NOMINATIONS ARE NOW OPEN for the 5th Annual 2018 Niagara UNITY Awards! Theses awards showcases the important successes of individuals and groups that have made an impact for the Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender Plus (LGBT+) community here in the Niagara Region.

Pride Niagara has launched a month long nomination process starting March 26th, 2018 via an online link https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/3QCMBJ5 which can also be found at www.prideniagara.com listed under events. Anyone can participate by filling out their nominations for each individual award category. Continue reading →

Major Funding Boost Will Reduce Wait Times, Address Capacity Issues and Provide Better Care Closer to Home

A News Release from the Government of Ontario followed by a critical analysis from the Ontario Health Coalition, a citizens advocacy group,

Posted March 27^th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Late this March, Premier Kathleen Wynne announced there will be an additional $822 million investment in Ontario hospitals in 2018-19 — an increase of 4.6 per cent.

Niagara area politicians gather with Ontario health minister at rural Niagara Falls site in Fall of 2017 for an update promise that another new hospital in region will one day be built. File photo by Doug Draper

The Premier was joined by Dr. Helena Jaczek, Minister of Health and Long-Term Care, and Charles Sousa, Minister of Finance, at North York General Hospital to explain how this major increase in hospital funding will provide better access to care, reduce wait times, address capacity issues and better meet the needs of Ontario’s growing and aging population.

This overall increase of 4.6 per cent is on top of the 3.2 per cent provided last year — allowing hospitals to invest with more precision in the care and supports that address the specific needs of their patients and community. Continue reading →

Prime Minister delivers a statement of exoneration for six Tsilhqot’in Chiefs

Canada’s Prime Minister Justin Trudeau

“I know that this posthumous exoneration cannot by itself repair the damage that has been done. It is my sincere hope, though, that it will allow healing to begin as Canada and the Tsilhqot’in Nation embark on a new journey together toward reconciliation. This is another important step forward to recognize and support the implementation of the rights of the Tsilhqot’in and all Indigenous Peoples, enshrined in our Constitution.”” – Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau

Chief Joe Alphonse, Tribal Chairman, Tsilhqot_in National Government photos

“We are prepared to work with Canada to transform the lives of our people and this country – in a way that ensures our children will not have to see such things as Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women, high Indigenous incarceration rates, or over representation of Indigenous children in the foster care system.”
—Chief Joe Alphonse, Tribal Chairman, Tsilhqot’in National Government

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

Posted March 27th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

As Canada continues its journey of reconciliation and renewal with Indigenous Peoples, we need to confront our history so we can build a new nation-to-nation relationship guided by the recognition of rights and the values of respect and partnership.

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, this March 26th  delivered a statement of exoneration on behalf of the Government of Canada to the Tsilhqot’in Nation and the descendants of six Tsilhqot’in Chiefs. He confirmed the posthumous exoneration of all six chiefs – Chief Lhats’as?in, Chief Biyil, Chief Tilaghed, Chief Taqed, Chief Chayses, and Chief Ahan. Continue reading →

 ‘March For Our Lives’ Rally Rivals Peace & Civil Rights Marches of 1960s

“The fight begins today. And it won’t end until we get what we need.” – Cameron Kasky, a survivor of the mass shooting at Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida and one of the organizers of a March 24th ‘March For Our Lives’ Rally that went global.

The March For Our Lives rally in Buffalo, New York. Photo by Doug Draper

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

Posted March 26th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

At the risk of being accused of overdoing it with lines from Bob Dylan songs,  one of his more interesting ones, called ‘The Ballad of a Thin Man’, from a time in the 1960s when youthful rebellion was really beginning to shake the rafters of the status quo, featured a line that went like this – “Something is happening here, but you don’t know what it is, do you, Mr. Jones.’

Well something is happening again. Continue reading →

‘Novelty Cheque’ Presentation Was a Waste of         Public’s Time

A Commentary by Niagara, Ontario resident and community activist Ed Smith

Posted March 26^th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – Last Thursday, March 22^nd, at the regularly scheduled Regional Council meeting, Councillor Tony Quirk of Grimsby introduced a motion that in effect delays the payment – potentially indefinitely -of the $1.2 million the Niagara Peninsula Conservation had committed, only a few weeks ago, to return, the Niagara Region and, ultimately, to its taxpayers.

The giant cardboard ‘Novetly Cheque’ presentation at the March 1st Niagara regional council meeting. From left are Niagara Region’s chair Al Caslin, NPCA board chair and Fort Erie regional councilor Sandy Annunziata and Hamilton area NPCA board member James Kaspersetz.

The money was made available as the result of a decision made by the province’s Deputy Mining and Lands Commissioner in favour of the levying agreements the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) has with Hamilton. Continue reading →

An Invite from Niagara Parks in Niagara Falls, Ontario

Posted March 26^th, 2018 in Niagara At Large

 •  Don’t miss the traditional Easter lilies, live chicks and bunnies at the Niagara Parks Floral Showhouse

•   Take part in the Annual Signs of Spring scavenger hunt event at the Butterfly Conservatory

•  Delight in the popular Easter brunch offerings prepared at four of Niagara Parks’ FeastOn certified restaurants

Niagara Falls, Ontario – Make a visit to Niagara Parks part of your Easter long weekend plans and check out the fantastic lineup of springtime activities and events taking place all along the Niagara River corridor. Continue reading →

A Brief News Commentary by Doug Draper

Posted March 23rd, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Along with Elizabeth May, Leader of Canada’s Green Party, Kennedy Stewart, an NDP MP for the Riding of Burnaby South in British Columbia, was arrested by police this March 23^rd during a protest against the construction of a pipeline from the tar sands in Alberta to ports on the shores of the Pacific Ocean in B.C.

Kennedy Stewart, an NDP MP from Burnaby, British Columbia, being arrested in protest against Kinder Morgan pipeline being build to carry oily tar from Alberta’s tar sands to Pacific ports.

Today I was arrested by the RCMP for defying a court injunction as it applies to Kinder Morgan’s Burnaby Mountain facilities. I did so while standing with my community, Indigenous Leaders, and those from across British Columbia who oppose this new pipeline. Please read my full statement below. Together, we can stop Kinder Morgan,” said Kenney in a statement following his arrest. Continue reading →

“Non-violent civil disobedience is the moral obligation of the climate-aware, responsible citizen.”                            – Elizabeth May, Leader, Green Party of Canada

A News Release from the Green Party of Canada

Posted March 23rd, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Dear Friends

A year and a half ago, Elizabeth May announced on national television that her opposition to the Kinder Morgan pipeline was so strong that she would spend time behind bars to stop it.

NDP MP Kennedy Stewart and Green Party leader Elizabeth May join protesters at a Kinder Morgan pipeline expansion worksite in Burnaby, British Columbia on March 23, 2018.

True to her word, Elizabeth was arrested earlier this March 23rd  while protesting the pipeline’s construction on Burnaby mountain. Continue reading →

2017 Ontario Public Sector Salaries Disclosed

“Ontario’s commitment to openness and transparency includes releasing public sector salaries annually. … We will continue to transform government to make it more innovative, more efficient, and more accountable to the people of Ontario.” – Eleanor McMahon, President of Ontario’s Treasury Board

A News Release from the Government of Ontario

But First, A Few Introductory Comments from Niagara At Large reporter and publisher Doug Draper –

Okay, fellow Ontario citizens it is finally here – one of the most popular or unpopular lists the provincial government releases all year, depending on which way you look at it.

And is it ever busy! Continue reading →

A Brief News Commentary by Doug Draper

Posted March 23rd, 2018 on Niagara At Large

After all the build-up over the possibility of flying monkey’s showing up at this past Thursday, March 22nd Niagara regional council meeting to take yet another run at Pelham Mayor Dave Augustyn and his town council, for once it didn’t happen.

The scary monkeys were kept at bay and whatever regional government equivalent of a wicked witch might unleash them – this time, at least – just melted away.

There might have been what some regional council observers have taken to calling another “s— show” in the council chambers where, oddly enough, signs are now posted on the walls warning visiting members of the public not to engage in “aggressive or intimidating behaviour.” Continue reading →

Congressman Brian Higgins Praises Louise Slaughter as a “Champion of Progressive Causes” on House Floor where she Service for more than 30 years

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

Posted March 23rd, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Veteran Democrat Congresswoman Louise Slaughter for Western New York was also a good neighbour of communities in Niagara, Ontario.

(The tribute Buffalo, New York area Congressman Brian Higgins delivered this March 22^nd comes in the wake of Congresswoman Louis Slaughter’s death at age 88  this past March 16^th following a concussion she suffered from falling in her home. Her congressional district, which she represented since 1986, included the Niagara Falls, New York area and stretch east through Rochester. Slaughter had a long and strong record of championing the rights of women and minority groups, and has been highly praised by her colleagues and many  citizens groups for her courage and dedication in doing so.)

Now here is Congressman Higgins’s  News Release –

The Floor of House of Representatives is where Congresswoman Louise M. Slaughter stood up with passion and purpose to fight for the good of the community and country she loved, and it is there where, Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) paid tribute to his Western New York Delegation colleague and friend.  Continue reading →

“An NDP government will deliver the 15 per cent savings the Liberals refused to deliver.”

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

Posted March 23rd, 2018 on Niagara At Large

North York, Ontario  – At a town hall on auto insurance this past Thursday, March 22nd, Ontario NDP leader Andrea Horwath announced that an NDP government will lower auto insurance rates by at least 15 per cent and ban the practice of neighborhood discrimination in the setting of auto insurance premiums.

Ontario NDP Leader Andrea Horwath

“An NDP government will deliver the 15 per cent savings the Liberals refused to deliver,” said Horwath, referring to a promise Kathleen Wynne broke right after the election. “And we won’t allow your postal code to determine how much you pay. 

“Families are feeling the squeeze in Ontario. Costs are going up, and paycheques aren’t. Making life more affordable is critical in making sure everyone can build their best life, right here in Ontario.”

NDP candidate for the riding of Humber River – Black Creek Tom Rakocevic said that his neighborhood and others across Ontario have been unfairly targeted by discriminatory practices in the insurance system.

“Folks here in Humber River – Black Creek and nearby communities like Brampton are paying higher auto insurance rates than other Ontario communities for no good reason,” Rakocevic said.

“It hurts people — but it doesn’t have to be this way. I’m so inspired by Andrea’s commitment to make sure  people don’t have to settle for high prices. She’s such a contrast to the discrimination and broken Liberal promises Kathleen Wynne delivered on auto insurance rates.”

New Democrats have been fighting to bring down auto insurance bills for over five years. But during Wynne’s time in office, auto insurance bills climbed higher and higher.

“As premier, I will stand up to the insurance companies,” said Horwath. “We will curb insurance company profit and improve government oversight of the auto insurance industry. And when I say I will lower rates by at least 15 per cent, I mean it.

“People know where I stand, before and after an election. Not with insurance companies — with everyday families that have car insurance payments, hydro bills and prescription costs piling up. They need relief, and I’m going to make sure they get it.”

Horwath and the NDP have a plan to lower hydro bills by 30 per cent, and keep them down by returning Hydro One to public hands.

She has also promised drug and dental coverage for all Ontarians through her plans Pharmacare for Everyone and Dental Care for Everyone.

NIAGARA AT LARGE encourages you to join the conversation by sharing your views on this post in the space below the Bernie quote.

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

A News Release from the Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce

Posted March 23rd, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario  – On March 28th, at the Scotiabank Convention Centre in Niagara Falls, Regional Chair Alan Caslin will deliver his annual State of the Region address to an audience of five hundred.

The event is presented by PenFinancial Credit Union and Bell, and made possible by the GNCC’s partner organizations, the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, the Niagara-on-the-Lake Chamber of Commerce, Niagara Industrial Association, Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority, Niagara Association of Realtors, Niagara Home Builders Association, Niagara Construction Association. Continue reading →

“The state-of-the-art St. Catharines Site has been the catalyst for a number of significant enhancements to patient care. It is an exciting time at Niagara Health as we continue our work to build a world-class hospital system where the quality of patient care and the work environment are second to none.” –  says Niagara Health President Suzanne Johnston.

A News Release from Niagara Heath, the body operating the system of hospital services across the Niagara region

Posted March 22nd, 2018 on Niagara At Large

(A Brief Foreword  to this News Release from  Niagara At Large reporter and publisher Doug Draper –

As one of a mere few reporters who repeatedly editorialized for locating this huge hospital complex, located in the west end of St. Catharines, at a more central location in the Niagara region, I can’t help saying a few words here.

Niagara’s new hospital complex, now five years old, in the west end of St. Catharines. Photo courtesy of Niagara Health

The debate over where this hospital – which at least some of us knew was going to be possibly the only new “super hospital” for Niagara for decades to come – should go raged on for the better part of a decade before it was built, And the debate very often became polarizing and parochial. Continue reading →

Could the Flying Monkeys Be Very Far Behind?

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

Posted March 21st, 2018 on Niagara At Large

First, let me start by giving you some good news.

Spring is finally here and here’s the most important thing. There are only 213 days left until this coming October’s municipal elections.

This coming October’s municipal elections are our chance to draw the curtains on this circus.

Yes, I know, at least some of you are probably saying that another 213 days is like a century with the kind of characters we have on Niagara’s regional council, not to mention on more than a few of our local councils in this region.

My response to that is go out and enjoy the spring and summer, and by  all means get informed and engaged in what is going on in municipal politics in this region. And lo and behold,, that glorious date of October 21st, when we can go to the polls and show all those characters (less the good ones on our councils, because there are some good ones) who the real boss is will come soon enough.

In the meantime, here’s the bad news. Continue reading →

 “No senior should have to live in pain because they can’t afford dental care. Nor should they live with worries about cracking a tooth, knowing they can’t afford to fix it.”

A Media Release from the Ontario New Democratic Party and Welland Riding (Niagara Centre) MPP Cindy Forster

Posted March 21st, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Welland Riding MPP Cindy Forster in Ontario legislature. File photo

Queen’s Park, Toronto  – During question period this past Tuesday, March 20th, Cindy Forster, NDP MPP for Welland, called on the Wynne government to make sure low-income seniors have access to necessary dental care after being contacted by a 68-year-old low-income constituent who lost over 30 pounds because she can’t access the oral care she needs. 

 “Lisa is a low income senior in my riding. Over the last year, Lisa has lost over 30 pounds because she can’t be treated for TMJ –  severe arthritis of the jaw. Her jaw locks, gets stuck and the pain is so overwhelming she’s unable to eat. Worse, when she went to her doctor last fall, she was told the oral service needed to fix it isn’t covered by OHIP,” Forster said. Continue reading →

Buffalo Rally Being Held In Support of Major Washington, D.C. March To End ‘Gun Violence’ in America

A Call-Out from the Western New York Peace Center

Posted March 21^th, 2018 on Niagara At Large

March For Our Lives – WNY

March 24 @ 1:30 pm – 3:00 pm

Join us to stand against gun violence. #NeverAgain should our children have to be afraid to go to school because our politicians are too busy filling their pockets with NRA contributions to do the right thing to keep people safe.

Rally in Niagara Sq, City Hall Steps, Bflo, w/circular March (est > 1mile). Organized by New Yorkers Against Gun Violence, and the WNY Peace Center, with stellar co-sponsors (see below) – 38 and counting! Continue reading →

“Change starts when we examine our own attitudes and beliefs, and question how they came to be. It takes daily, deliberate effort to recognize the biases we hold, especially those we are unaware of.”

A Statement from the Office of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau

Posted March 21st, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Canada’s  Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination:

“As Canadians, we embrace diversity as a defining aspect of our identity. Yet, over the centuries, people in Canada have not felt progress equally. Far too many have faced discrimination, often on the basis of the way they look or where they are from. Continue reading →

“While Canada is one of the safest countries in the world, increased gun crime has caused too much violence and taken too many lives in communities of all kinds.  It has tragically claimed innocent bystanders, children and police officers from coast to coast.  With this legislation and our other measures, we are taking concrete steps to make our country less vulnerable to the scourge of gun violence, while being fair to responsible, law-abiding firearms owners and businesses.” – Ralph Goodale, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness

A News Release from the Government of Canada

Posted March 21, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Ottawa, Ontario – Crime rates generally in Canada have been on the decline for more than two decades, but offences involving firearms have become more prevalent, especially since 2013.

Many communities across the country have been facing a steady increase in gun violence over the past five years. Gun-related homicides, domestic and gender-based violence involving guns, criminal gang activity and gun thefts are all up significantly. Continue reading →

“By creating a culture where it is easier for employers to hire through transparent and measurable means, we address both the short-term challenge of getting a person into a job, and the longer-term challenges of maintaining balance between labour supply and demand.” – Niagara Community Observatory Director Charles Conteh

A News Release from Brock University’s Niagara Community Observatory

Posted March 21st, 2018 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – A significant portion of Niagara employers hire their staff through the ‘hidden’ job market, according to a newly-released youth employment policy brief co-researched by Brock University.

Niagara Workforce Planning Board researchers Thalia Semplonius, left, and Adam Durrant listen as Brock University associate professor Jeff Boggs goes over data from the “Youth in Niagara: Highly Skilled, Highly Mobile” policy brief released Tuesday, March 20 at Brock University.

Brock’s Niagara Community Observatory (NCO) and the Niagara Workforce Planning Board (NWPB) estimate that 20 per cent of the region’s employers could be using private job boards, paywalls and other publicly inaccessible ways of recruiting employees rather than advertising positions openly. Continue reading →