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“Border communities, families and devastated tourism operators are rightfully asking to see the complete plan for border reopening. We fully agree that it needs to be guided by public health metrics …,but it is time for a clear plan with a roadmap to a full reopening of the border.”                                                                     – Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce

A News Release from the Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce in Niagara, Ontario

Posted June 23^rd, 2021 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – This past Monday, June 21^st,, the Government of Canada announced that Canadian borders would be reopened on July 6 to Canadian citizens and permanent residents who have had a full series of COVID-19 vaccinations.

This means that most fully vaccinated foreigners (including Americans) are still unable to travel to Canada for non-essential purposes. The announcement gives Canadians the opportunity to travel and will result in a boost for the tourism sectors of other countries, but not our own.

This change has been dubbed “Phase 1,” yet the government’s announcement contained no details as to what Phase 2 would be, when it would start, what public health measurements would indicate that it could start, or even how many total phases were in the border reopening plan. Continue reading →

Why is Doug Ford allowing far right, anti-choice groups to select PC Party candidates?

“Doug Ford has allowed close ties to dangerous anti-choice, anti-women groups to grow in his party, and now we are seeing the extreme Campaign Life Coalition organize his local campaigns and select candidates in communities like ours.”            – Jennie Stevens, NDP MPP for St. Catharines

News from Ontario’s NDP Official Opposition Party

Posted June 23^rd, 2021 on Niagara At Large

Niagara West and Ford Conservative Government MPP Sam Oosterhoff, speaking at anti-abortion rally in front of Queen’s Park a few years ago, with Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s blessing.

ST. CATHARINES and TORONTO, Ontario — The Campaign Life Coalition, an extreme anti-abortion lobby group, is fundraising and soliciting membership sign-ups for the PC Party of Ontario — and is planning to pick the party’s candidate in at least one riding.

The NDP is calling on Doug Ford to denounce anti-choice organizers in his caucus and party immediately.

“Doug Ford has allowed close ties to dangerous anti-choice, anti-women groups to grow in his party, and now we are seeing the extreme Campaign Life Coalition organize his local campaigns and select candidates in communities like ours,” said Jennie Stevens, NDP MPP for St. Catharines, who is also the critic for Veterans, Legions, and Military Affairs.

“Ontarians who believe in reproductive rights need to hear Doug Ford publicly denounce the Campaign Life Coalition and their mission. He needs to clearly and publicly instruct this hateful organization to stop collecting donations and memberships on his behalf.” Continue reading →

New report illustrates how carmakers’ EV pledges mask their push to sell more polluting SUVs, jeopardizing efforts to cut carbon emissions now

Report calls out automaker duplicity on climate change

A New Report from Environmental Defence, a Canada-wide advocacy group for a healthier planet

Posted June 23^rd, 2021 on Niagara At Large

Toronto, Ontario – A new report released from Environmental Defence  illustrates how carmakers’ promises of an all-electric future mask their push to sell more gas-powered SUVs now, contributing to rising carbon emissions from transportation.

The report, titled “Car Wars: EVs versus SUVs and the Battle for a Cleaner Future,” argues that carmakers’ plans to sell millions of gas-powered SUVs and pickups means Canada will not meet its electric vehicle (EV) targets and transition to electric cars, unless the federal government takes strong action.

“The car companies are talking a big game, filled with new promises of a cavalcade of electric cars, trucks and SUVs that’s just around the corner. But Canadians should take these claims with a big grain of salt,” said Keith Brooks, Programs Director for Environmental Defence. Continue reading →

A News Release from Ontario’s Niagara Parks Commission and the Niagara Falls Illumination Board

Posted June 21^st on Niagara At Large

Niagara Falls, Ontario – The Niagara Falls Illumination Board will be illuminating both the Canadian Horseshoe and American Falls in white and purple tonight from 9:00 to 9:45 P.M.  & 10:15 to 12:00 A.M. in celebration of National Indigenous Peoples Day in Canada.

White and purple are the colours of Wampum belts which are significant to Niagara Indigenous history. At the Treaties of Niagara councils held in Niagara in 1764, numerous wampum strings and belts were exchanged with some two dozen First Nations and the Crown. Continue reading →

This deer has made its home in Waverly Woods – now a target of predatory development in Fort Erie. How many homes will be left for wildlife like this if Niagara Regional Council passes a weak Official Plan?

“Niagara Regional Council, including all (of Niagara’s) mayors, will be making a decision in the next couple of weeks about whether to choose Option 3C or 3B for a Natural Heritage System (for our region). Option 3B is a developers dream and will continue to allow development on urban environmentally sensitive areas. Option 3C is the best choice for anyone who cares about the environment of Niagara particularly in urban areas.”

A Call-Out to All of Us from Marcie Jacklin and Community Voices of Fort Erie, a citizens group fighting to save Waverly Woods in Fort Erie from destruction

Posted June 21^st, 2021 on Niagara At Large

PETITION UPDATE

Niagara Regions new Official Plan and Saving Waverly Woods

Marcie Jacklin, a leading member of Community Voices of Fort Erie a long-time field naturalist and conservationist in Niagara is urging Regional Councillors not to gamble with our future.

Niagara, Ontario – For decades now residents have been opposing many inappropriate developments in Niagara.

Locally informed citizens become aware of significant environmental or historic sites under attack and have to weave their way through a complicated planning process at the region or local municipality.

The amount of time and money spent by residents to oppose development on these priceless properties is enormous. In the meantime, when developers see there might be problems,they gear up their lobbying machines to influence staff and politicians in ways that the public can’t. Continue reading →

Where Is the Game Plan on Re-Opening. Border Crossings

And Why Do the Federal Governments Keep Moving the Goal Posts?

Buffalo, New York area Democratic Party Congressman Brian Higgins

“First the public was told vaccinations were the key to re-opening the border. Yet the vaccinated continue to be shut out. Then it was said, 75% partially vaccinated and 20% fully vaccinated was the threshold Canada needed to meet to loosen restrictions. That goal has been reached and still the border restrictions were extended for another month.”                                       -Brian Higgins, U.S. Democratic  Democratic Congressman representing border communities in New York State

A Statement By Congressman Brian Higgins, A U.S. Cngressman representing a District that includes the Buffalo and Niagara Falls, New York area

Posted June 21^st, 2021 on Niagara At Large

Stop! Even if you are a fully vaccinated Canadian, you are not crossing that border for, possibly for the remainder of the summer, according to some reports. . Trudeau government seems determine to lock fully vaccinated people in Canada.

During a Sunday interview Canada’s Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness discussed the extension of existing travel restrictions between the United States and Canada.

“We haven’t reached the finish line, and the finish line is when a significant majority of Canadians, approximately 75%, are fully vaccinated,” said (Minister Bill) Blair.

Canada-United States Interparliamentary Group Co-Chair Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) released the following statement in response: Continue reading →

“We’re all in this together, both as a university and as a community. Being able to offer all Brock students direct access to the vaccine through this on-campus clinic is a very important step in the right direction.”                                                                          – Lynn Wells, Brock University Provost and Vice-President, Academic

News from Brock University in St. Catharines, Ontario

Posted June 17^th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – As public health officials look to increase the vaccination rates among young adults in Niagara, Brock University will be offering the Moderna vaccine to undergraduate and graduate students starting Friday, June 25.

Brock University. COVID-19 vaccine shots coming to Brock students, starting this coming June 25th

The University is working to ensure students have access to both first and second doses of the Moderna vaccine as part of its campus-wide fall preparations. Continue reading →

“I applaud the Biden Administration’s leadership throughout the pandemic, and we look forward to coming together again with our neighbors to the north.”                                                                           – Brian Higgins, U.S. Democratic Congressman for the Buffalo and Niagara Falls, New York area

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

Posted June 17^th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

Biden sends a million more doses of Moderna vaccine north to Canada

Buffalo, New York – Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) applauded action by President Biden to send one million doses of the Moderna COVID vaccine to Canada.

Higgins said, “Both the United States and Canada have made tremendous progress in fighting COVID in a short period of time, but there is still work to do to get everyone fully vaccinated. Continued action by the United States to share vaccines with our Canadian friends will serve to expedite a return to normalcy and save lives.

I applaud the Biden Administration’s leadership throughout the pandemic, and we look forward to coming together again with our neighbors to the north.” Continue reading →

Brock is one step closer to offering widespread electric vehicle (EV) charging on campus.

“By increasing the number of charging stations in our community, we hope to see more people opting for greener options in the future.”                                                                                     – Scott Johnstone, Senior Associate Vice-President, Infrastructure and Operations, Brock University

A News Release from Brock University in St. Catharines, Ontario

Posted June 16^th,2021 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario –After announcing earlier this year plans to introduce 20 EV chargers, made possible by funding from Natural Resources Canada’s Zero-Emission Vehicle Infrastructure Program and Brock’s own contributions, construction is now underway.

“We are giving Canadians the greener options they want to get to where they need to go,” said Minister of Natural Resources Seamus O’Regan Jr. “This is how we get to net-zero by 2050.”

The University has partnered with Blackstone Energy Services, who will supply and install 17 Level 2 and three Level 3 DC Fast ChargePoint EV charging stations in parking lots across Brock’s main campus. Level 3 charging is particularly important for people who travel from outside Niagara, as they can charge a near-empty battery to 80 per cent in as little as 20 minutes. Continue reading →

“After three years of cozying up to developers who are also Ford donors, people are extremely concerned (about warning signs) that Ford is about to gift more extraordinary MZOs (Ministry Zoning Orders)so developers can pave over wetlands and precious farmland.”

A News Release from Ontario’s Official Opposition New Democratic Party

Posted June 16^th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

HAMILTON, Ontario — Doug Ford may be signalling that he’s ready to double down on his controversial Minister’s Zoning Orders (MZO), a scheme in which he lets powerful land developers — often big Ford donors, insiders and allies — pave over important and ecologically sensitive lands.

On Wednesday (June 16^th), the Ford government announced that when it hands over land to developers using MZOs, it will make amends by adding other, unspecified, land to the Greenbelt.  Sandy Shaw, the NDP’s critic for Environment, Conservation and Parks, said that’s a bad scheme, and a troubling sign of what’s to come. Continue reading →

“We celebrate the work we have done to see that our Indigenous community and their family members were vaccinated as a first priority. This work, supported by Niagara Region Public Health and Niagara Health ,has ensured our most vulnerable are as safe as we can make it from this Pandemic”                                                  – Jennifer Dockstader, executive director, Fort Erie Native Friendship Centre

News from Niagara Region Public Health

Posted June 16^th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – In recognition of Indigenous Heritage Month, Niagara Region Public Health would like to thank the many community partners who helped make our Indigenous specific clinics a success.

Since March 10, 2021, 11 clinics were held in Niagara for Indigenous adults and youth 12-17, as well as those in their households. Approximately 3,800 first doses and 4,000 second doses have been given to Indigenous individuals and their household members in these clinics.

Jennifer Dockstader, executive director, Fort Erie Native Friendship Centre

“We celebrate the work we have done to see that our Indigenous community and their family members were vaccinated as a first priority. This work, supported by Niagara Region Public Health and Niagara Health ,has ensured our most vulnerable are as safe as we can make it from this Pandemic,” says Jennifer Dockstader, executive director of the Fort Erie Native Friendship Centre.

“We thank all levels of government for the value placed on our health and hope this marks a new chapter of good relations and inclusion, where we move beyond colonial approaches when with our Indigenous community. Now as vaccines are so readily available, we continue to urge each community member to sign up to the Provincial Portal and continue to be vaccinated. The sooner we all do this, the sooner we can gather again safely. Swatete’nikulala:k- Everyone be safe.” Continue reading →

Province partnering with Indian Residential School survivors, families and Indigenous leaders on a community-led approach

“Our children were taken from us by government diktat in an effort to eliminate our language, culture, values, and identity, and some of them were never seen again. No parent or child should ever have to experience that.”                                                          – Chief Mark B. Hill Six Nations of the Grand River

News from the Government of Ontario

Posted June 15^th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

KENORA, Ontario —The Ontario government is providing $10 million to help support the identification, investigation, protection and commemoration of Indian Residential School burial sites across the province.

A vintage photo of a former residential school, this one operated in Brantford, Ontario for more than a century. Indigenous children here were made to perform slave labour in neighbouring farm fields. Question is, where are the children who died here buried?

The funding will also ensure that culturally appropriate, trauma-informed mental health supports are available for Indian Residential School survivors, their families and Indigenous communities.

“Like all Ontarians, I was heartbroken by the news of a burial site containing the remains of 215 Indigenous children at the former Indian Residential School in Kamloops, British Columbia,” said Premier Doug Ford. Continue reading →

Grimsby Resident Bruce MacKenzie Recognized by Ontario Nature for Work Protecting Nature

A News Release from Ontario Nature, one of the Province’s Major Non-Profit Advocacy Group for Conserving our Natural Heritage

Posted June 15th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

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

Grimsby resident and long-time citizen conservationist Bruce MacKenzie

Bruce MacKenzie, a resident of the Niagara, Ontario municipality of Grimsby, has been a dedicated campaigner for natural heritage protection for many years now.

How good it is that he has now been recognized by one of the province’s premier conservation groups, Ontario Nature for all of his selfless efforts.

Bruce MacKenzie currently sits as a citizen member for Grimsby on the Board of Directors for the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) and is the board’s Vice-Chair.

Unfortunately, Ontario’s Ford government has recently passed legislation to weaken Conservation Authorities across the province as advocates for conservation – legislation that will, among other things, purge ordinary citizens like Bruce MacKenzie from sitting on Conservation Authority boards.

Ford wants only hand-picked, elected politicians serving on Conservation Authority boards. Heaven help us if those boards also included citizens outside of politics who have a true love for our natural heritage.

Here is the write-up Ontario Nature posted on its site for the award is presented this spring to Bruce MacKenzie –

Bruce MacKenzie – J.R. Dymond Public Service Award for public service that resulted in exceptional environmental achievement to Bruce MacKenzie for extensive efforts to restore a decommissioned sewage lagoon to a natural wetland known as the Grimsby Wetlands.

Bruce MacKenzie, out in our green places in Niagara, where he loves to be.

Now here is Ontario Nature’s recent news release for all its 2021 award winners –

 Ontario Nature celebrated 90 years of protecting wild species and spaces at its annual gathering and conservation awards ceremony on June 12, 2021. This year, Ontario Nature recognized the exceptional contributions to natural habitat protection made by organizations, individuals and companies. Their dedication inspires everyone to continue to fight to protect nature in Ontario.

The winners are:

Ontario Nature Achievement Award for outstanding contribution to the activities of Ontario Nature to John Lounds who served for six years as Executive Director of Ontario Nature then as Chief Executive Officer of Nature Conservancy of Canada until stepping down in 2020.

W. E. Saunders Natural History Award for achievement in natural history research to Owen Clarkin for spearheading an extensive survey of remnant habitat of rare red spruce in eastern Ontario with hundreds of hours of volunteer fieldwork.

Richards Education Award for helping people understand the natural world to David Hawke for many years in nature education as interpretive naturalist at Wye Marsh Wildlife Interpretive Centre and subsequently at Tiny Marsh Provincial Wildlife Area, part-time instructor at Georgian College and Lakehead University, and writing nature columns in local newspapers.

W.W.H. Gunn Conservation Award for outstanding commitment to nature conservation over many years to Karen Yukich for her dedication to the restoration and conservation of nature in Toronto’s High Park.

Ian Shenstone Fraser Memorial Award for making a significant contribution toward a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in Ontario to Don and Marnie Ross for helping establish the UNESCO Frontenac Arch Biosphere Reserve and working with land trusts to expand natural protected areas within the Frontenac Arch.

Carl Nunn Media and Conservation Award for effective communication on conservation issues in the media to Leah Gerber who, as a reporter for the Waterloo Region Record newspaper, writes stories focusing on the Grand River Watershed.

Lee Symmes Municipal Award to a town, city or municipality for implementing programs that protect the natural environment to the City of Kingston for declaring a climate emergency, and implementing numerous nature-based solutions and climate change mitigation measures.

J.R. Dymond Public Service Award for public service that resulted in exceptional environmental achievement to Bruce MacKenzie for extensive efforts to restore a decommissioned sewage lagoon to a natural wetland known as the Grimsby Wetlands.

Ontario Nature Corporate Award for an organization demonstrating outstanding action in the environmental field to Ontario Power Generation – Wesleyville for actions to improve nature conservation including restoration activities at Wesleyville Creek for brook trout, monitoring and research at Wesleyville coastal marsh and bluebird, tree swallow and wood duck nesting box and osprey platform program.

The Steve Hounsell Greenway Award for working to preserve a natural heritage system core area or corridor to Land Over Landings for working to preserve the rich farmland and natural heritage features of the former airport lands in north Pickering.

Margaret and Carl Nunn Memorial Camp Scholarship for youth showing interest and leadership potential in natural history to attend Nature Camp at Camp Kawartha to Sarah Inglis, a 14-year-old resident of Cobourg who helps with Willow Beach Field Naturalist activities, and is interested in birds and other wildlife.

About Ontario Nature – Ontario Nature protects wild species and wild spaces through conservation, education and public engagement. Ontario Nature is a charitable organization representing more than 30,000 members and supporters, and 155 member groups across Ontario.

For more information about Ontario Nature,  visit ontarionature.org.

NIAGARA AT LARGE Encourages You To Join The Conversation By Sharing Your Views On This Post In The Space Following The Bernie Sanders Quote Below.

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

“Natural” gas is a fossil fuel and was responsible in 2018 for the biggest spike in carbon emissions Ontario has seen in decades.”

News from Environmental Defence, a Canada-wide advocacy group for protecting the environment

Posted June 15^th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

A Statement from Sarah Buchanan, Ontario Climate Program Manager for Environmental Defence, on Ontario spending $26,000 per customer to subsidize fossil fuels over clean technologies

Doug Ford, shown here in what turned out to be a very costly for taxpayers, failed attempt to kill the federal government’s so-called “carbon tax,” has been a friend of climate-ravaging carbon emissions for all of the three years he has been Ontario premier.

Toronto, Ont. – Ontario has launched the second phase of a program to expand fossil fuel gas pipelines to new communities.

Instead of supporting viable and more cost-effective clean technologies like heat pumps, Ontario is spending more than $234 million to support approximately 8750 connections – a subsidy of over $26,000 per customer.

This is a big subsidy for fossil fuels and a step in the wrong direction, when the government could have chosen to support clean technologies, help customers save money long term, lower capital costs, and cut carbon emissions. Continue reading →

“Science tells us that fully vaccinated people pose virtually no risk to transmit or receive COVID-19.  In recognition of this, in terms of domestic policy. … The same policy can and should be extended immediately for vaccinated Americans and Canadians crossing the border.”                                                                                                    – Buffalo, New York Area Congressman Brian Higgins

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

Posted June 15^th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

Buffalo, New York area Democratic Congressman Biran Higgins has been pushing for months now for a safe plan for gradual border re-opening.

With United States and Canadian officials expected to discuss plans to re-open the border, Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) released the following statement urging both nations to act with urgency:

“Science tells us that fully vaccinated people pose virtually no risk to transmit or receive COVID-19.  In recognition of this, in terms of domestic policy, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has advised lifting restrictions on vaccinated people.

The same policy can and should be extended immediately for vaccinated Americans and Canadians crossing the border. People have not been able to access property they own or see loved ones for over 15 months, and they shouldn’t have to wait any longer. Continue reading →

Don’t Let Them Mow Down and Pave Over  What is Left of Niagara’s Natural Heritage

You Are Invited to Two Upcoming Public Consultation Sessions – Happening Virtually On Thursday, June 17^th and On Wednesday, June 23^rd – Focusing  On An ‘Official Plan’ That Will Shape the Way Niagara Grows for Years to Come

A Call-Out from Niagara At Large reporter and publisher                 Doug Draper

Posted June 14^th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

Members of our Niagara Regional Council, made up of 20 directly elected Regional Councillors and 12 Mayors of local municipalities across Niagara – will soon be voting on a new Official Plan for the way we grow our region.

The decision they make on what policies and rules are embraced in this Official Plan will have a significant impact, not only on shaping the future of transportation and the infrastructure that supports urban growth, but on how much protection what is left of our green places – our wetlands and watersheds and woodlands, and all of the biodiversity of life they support – receive for the foreseeable future and possibly for generations to come.

Suffice to say any final decision members of Niagara’s Regional Council makes on a new Official Plan – expected as early as this July – is one of the most important decisions it will make for the collective health and prosperity of our collective future for decades to come. Continue reading →

A News Release from Ontario’s Niagara Parks Commission and the Ontario/New York Niagara Falls Illumination Board

Posted June 13^th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Falls, Ontario –  In support of the Montreal Canadiens’ pursuit of the Stanley Cup, as Canada’s last remaining team in the 2021 NHL playoffs, the Canadian Horseshoe Falls will be illuminated tonight in Red, White and Blue from 9:30 to 10:00pm., the night before the team begins its next series.

No Canadian team has won the Stanley Cup since 1993, when the Montreal Canadiens defeated Wayne Gretzky and the Los Angeles Kings four games to one to claim their record 24th Championship. Continue reading →

This Monday, June 14^th at 10 A.M. – Find Link For Joining this Virtual Rally Below

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

Posted June 13th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

URGENT: Virtual Rally to Protest Doug Ford Running Roughshod Over Our Canadian Constitution

“So Doug Ford wants to break the constitution to up his chances of winning an election & stifle his opposition. The only other time I have been this disgusted was when Ford passed Bill 218 last fall to shield the for-profit long-term care companies from liability for their negligence,” – Ontario Health Coalition Executive Director Natalie Mehra on hearing the news that Doug Ford is invoking the notwithstanding clause to override the constitution.

We are calling on all our members and supporters to please join in the online protest organized by the Ontario Federation of Labour.

Details here:

Continue reading →

Welcome Michelle Sergi – Most Recently Chief Planner for Waterloo Region – to Niagara this July 19^th

Diana Huson

“The importance of the work undertaken by the Region’s Planning and Development Services – whether it be managing development approvals, planning for the future of our communities or designing policies to protect Niagara’s natural environment, cannot be underestimated. Michelle’s experience and leadership will be critical as we work to ensure that Niagara’s social and economic future is one we can be proud of.”                         – Pelham Regional Councillor and Chair of Niagara Region’s Planning and Economic Development Committee, Diana Huson

A News Release from Niagara’s Regional Government

Posted June 11^th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

Meet Niagara Region’s incoming Planning Commissioner, Michelle Sergi

Niagara, Ontario – Michelle Sergi joins Niagara Region as Commissioner of Planning and Development Services Niagara Region is pleased to announce the appointment of Michelle Sergi as the Region’s new Commissioner of Planning and Development Services.

Sergi’s appointment was approved at a Special Council meeting on June 10, and follows an extensive, Canada-wide, recruitment process that was undertaken by an independent recruitment agency. She brings with her a proven track record of success in a wide variety of areas, including strategic planning, policy development, natural heritage protection and relationship-building.

As Commissioner, Sergi will be part of the Region’s Corporate Leadership Team and will lead the Planning and Development Services Department, which comprises Infrastructure Planning and Development Engineering, Long-range Community Planning and Development Approvals. Continue reading →

Citizen Organizers Host a Vigil for Victims of London, Ontario Attack, of Canada’s Residential Schools and the most recent Palestinian-Israeli Conflict

Posted June 11^h, 2021 on Niagara At Large

A Brief Note about this Event from Niagara At Large reporter and publisher Doug Draper

Right about now, we could all use some healing, couldn’t we?

A memorial of flowers and children’s toys continues to grow at a crosswalk in London, Ontario where a young man with a hate on aimed his speeding pick-up truck at a Muslim Canadian family, killing four of them while they were on a Sunday walk this past June 6th.

As if more than 15 months of COVID-19 hasn’t been punishing enough, this past week we received news of a horrible, hate-driven attack against a family of the Muslim faith in London, Ontario with four members, representing three generations of that family, murdered and a nine-year old boy seriously injured and left without his parents, his 15-year-old sister and a grandmother. There crime was the colour of their skin, their dress and going out for a walk together on a Sunday evening.

This past May there was the discovery of a mass grave of 215 Indigenous children on the grounds of a former residential school in Kamloops, British Columbia – yet another jarring reminder of how horribly native peoples have been treated on this continent for hundreds of years.

Children’s shoes left on the steps of St. Catharines City Hall in recent days as a memorial to the 215 Indigenous children discovered in a mass grave in Kamloops, B.C.

Also this spring, there was another eruption of violence in the seemingly endless conflict between the State of Israel and Palestinians in the Gaza and West Bank area. As always, it is mostly civilians who become the co-lateral damage when the rocks start to fly – this time at least a dozen people in Israel and more than 200 Palestinians, an estimated 60 or more of them children.

How tragic it is that the two sides have never been able to find leaders willing and able to put an end to this this carnage.

With all of this in mind, some citizens have organized the vigil on the grounds of City Hall in St. Catharines downtown this coming Monday, June 14th at 7:30 p.m.

They are asking everyone who attends to bring their own candle, to wear a mask and be prepared to follow all other COVID-19 safety rules.

Here is a poster created for the ‘Night of Healing’ vigil –  

NIAGARA AT LARGE Encourages You To Join The Conversation By Sharing Your Views On This Post In The Space Following The Bernie Sanders Quote Below.

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

Members of Committee Have Now Been Named

Niagara Regional Chair Jim Bradley

“The events of the past year has shown us that much work remains to address the negative impacts of bias and discrimination that exist within our society. I am pleased to see such a diverse, talented and energetic group of individuals on this committee, and I am confident that their collaborative work will go a long way toward making Niagara an open and welcoming community for everyone.”                  ~ Jim Bradley, Chair of Niagara Regional Council

A News Release from Niagara’s Regional Government in Niagara, Ontario

Posted June 10^th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Regional Headquarters

Niagara, Ontario – Niagara Region confirms membership of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Advisory Committee

Regional Council recently took a step toward fostering a more diverse and welcoming community, appointing two regional councillors and eight community members to its new Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advisory Committee <https://www.niagararegion.ca/government/committees/diversity/default.aspx>(DEIAC).

They will be joined by representatives from the Women’s Advisory Committee and the Accessibility Advisory Committee. Continue reading →

“The cancellation of the Keystone XL pipeline extension is devastating.” Canada’s federal Conservative Party Erin O’Toole

A Commentary by Niagara At Large reporter and publisher Doug Draper, followed by a Statement by Canada’s Conservative Leader Erin O’Toole

Posted June 9t^h, 2021 on Niagara At Large

Erin O’Toole, Canada’s federal Conservative leader and cowboy for the Alberta tar sands

My God!

Canada’s Conservative Leader Erin O’Toole has tried to deny that his party doesn’t take the global climate emergency seriously, but if there were any more proof that he and his party doesn’t, check out the statement O’Toole released below.

It is a statement that is a gift to the now governing Justin Trudeau Liberals and every other federal party vying to convince a majority of Canadians – including growing numbers of engaged younger voters – that they are serious about addressing one of the most serious and potentially most urgent challenges facing us in the 21^st century. Continue reading →

“The past six months have been difficult, with our lives disrupted to control COVID-19. We can be cautiously optimistic about better days coming as we begin to reopen on Friday,”                      – Dr. Mustafa Hirji, Acting Medical Officer Of Health, Niagara Region Public Health

A News Release from Niagara Region Public Health

Posted June 9^th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

As the province moves to Step One of the Roadmap to Reopen on Friday, June 11, Niagara Region Public Health is reminding Niagara residents of additional public health and safety measures as part of section 22 orders for food premises and retail.

These remain in place to help keep our community safe, to continue to keep transmission rates low, and to help ensure Niagara will be ready for Step 2 of reopening.

*Food Premises*

When outdoor dining reopens in Niagara, diners at one table will once again be limited to just the same household (with existing exceptions for persons essential to physical and mental health of the party such as caregivers). Continue reading →

“If we can do it for some, we can surely find a way to do it for all. Families have been separated for over a year, homeowners have been kept from their property, and our economies have suffered. Leaders on both sides of the border must get this done.”                    – Brian Higgins, U.S. Congressman from the Buffalo, New York area and a Co-Chair of a Canada-U.S. Norther Border Caucus

A Statement by Buffalo, New York area U.S. Congressman Higgins on the U.S. – Canada Border

Posted June 8^th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

Buffalo, New York area Democratic Congressman Biran Higgins has been pushing for months now for a safe plan for a gradual border re-opening.

Buffalo, New York – U.S. Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26), who serves as Co-Chair of the Northern Border Caucus and the Canada-U.S. Interparliamentary Group released the following statement in response to ongoing discussions about U.S.-Canada border restrictions:

“It is clearly the beginning of the end of the border shutdown between the U.S. and Canada. In conversations with government leaders on both sides of the border we are learning plans are moving forward to provide for expanded crossing allowances. Action is long overdue.

“Later this week President Biden and Prime Minister Trudeau will travel to meet in England for the G7. And accommodations were made to allow U.S. and Canadian hockey teams to come together for the Stanley Cup finals. Science and progress in fighting the pandemic have made this possible. Continue reading →

A Brief News Release from Ontario’s Niagara Parks Commission and the Niagara Fals Illumination Board

Posted June 8th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

Niagara’ Horseshoe and American Falls to be Illuminated in support of the Afzaal Family from London, Ontario

Niagara Falls, Ontario – The Niagara Falls Illumination Board will be illuminating both the Canadian Horseshoe and American Falls in white, in support of the Afzaal family of London, Ontario.

The illumination will take place tonight, Tuesday June 8 between 9:30pm and 10:30pm.

The Illumination Board expresses its sincere condolences to the Afzaal family and stands in unity with the people of the city of London against hatred, violence and prejudice.

A memorial of flowers and children’s toys continues to grow at a crosswalk in London, Ontario where a young man with a hate on aimed his speeding pick-up truck at a Muslim Canadian family, killing four of them while they were on a Sunday walk this past June 6th.

Continue reading →

“On behalf of the people of Niagara, I wish to express our sincere condolences to the Afzaal family, and reiterate that we stand in solidarity with the people of London, Ontario, as well as Muslim Canadians across the country.”                                                                 – Jim Bradley, Niagara Region

A Statement from Jim Bradley, Niagara, Ontario’s Regional Chair

Posted June 8^th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

Sunday’s (May 6^th) senseless attack on a London family was an act of cowardice and brazen violence that has no place in our communities.

Many come to place flowers near a street crossing in London, Ontario where four members and three generations of a Muslim family became a target this June 6th in a horrific hate attack.

We are now learning that this horrendous act was fueled by hatred, and the  Afzaal family was targeted solely because of their Muslim Faith. I agree with those who have defined this attack as an act of terrorism and this type of violent, brutal racism cannot not be tolerated.

Unfortunately, this violent act of Islamophobia is not an isolated incident, and we must all work together to eliminate hatred and prejudice where it exists. Continue reading →

“Enough is enough. This type of hate is simply incomprehensible. These were innocent human beings who were killed simply because of their faith. They were our neighbours, family, friends, and co-workers who were murdered in cold blood.”

A Statement from the Niagara Folk Arts Multicultural Centre on the murder of a Muslim family in London, Ontario

Posted June 8^th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – The Niagara Folk Arts Multicultural Centre is shocked and horrified and demands justice after learning about the planned and premediated act of murder against a Muslim family in London, Ontario who were out for a walk on Sunday evening.

Four members of the family were killed and the lone survivor, a nine-year-old boy, remains in hospital with serious injuries after they were run down on the side of the street.

We strongly condemn this act of unspeakable hatred, murder, and Islamophobia as it has no place in our society. Continue reading →

Ford Government Moves to Step One of Roadmap to Reopen on June 11

Improvements in Key Indicators Allowing Province to Begin the Safe and Gradual Lifting of Public Health Measures

A News Release from the Government of Ontario

Posted June 7^th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

TORONTO, Ontario — Based on the provincewide vaccination rate and continuing improvements in key public health and health system indicators, the Ontario government, in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, will move the province into Step One of its Roadmap to Reopen at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, June 11, 2021.

“Thanks to the ongoing success of Team Ontario’s vaccine rollout and the ongoing improvements in public health trends, we are able to enter step one of the Roadmap and begin to safely and cautiously lift restrictions,” said Premier Doug Ford. Continue reading →

“Words are not enough to express the sorrow and anger we are all feeling in the wake of news that three generations of a family were targeted and killed by a hateful act of Islamophobic terror in (the city of)London (Ontario) this week.”                                          – Ontario’s Official Opposition Party Leader Andrea  Horwath

A News Release from Ontario’s New Democratic Party

Posted June 7th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

Ontario NDP MPP Official Opposition Leader Andrea Horwath

QUEEN’S PARK — NDP Leader Andrea Horwath released the following statement in response to London Police Services’ revelation that a Muslim family was targeted and deliberately struck by a driver on Sunday in London, Ontario:

“Words are not enough to express the sorrow and anger we are all feeling in the wake of news that three generations of a family were targeted and killed by a hateful act of Islamophobic terror in London this week.

This family mattered, they were loved, and they should be here today. My heart aches for their relatives, friends, loved ones and their community forced to cope and grieve in the wake of this heinous attack, and devastating loss. Continue reading →

“Climate change poses an existential threat to not only our community, but every corner of the planet. As a City we are continuing to do all that we can to limit emissions and mitigate its scope, but we also have to be ready for those impacts, even a worst-case scenario.”                                                                                   – St. Catharines Mayor Walter Sendzik

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

Posted June 7th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

Even as the City of St. Catharines takes efforts to prevent climate change from occurring, planning and action is under way to adapt to the impacts a changing climate will bring.

On Monday, May 31, Council approved the City’s first Climate Adaptation Plan (CAP), a document that will guide the City as it undertakes efforts to adapt to the impacts of climate change. The document is the culmination of months of work by the City, in cooperation with the Niagara Adapts network of local municipalities and Brock University. Continue reading →

 “More than ever, we must work with nature, not against it.”                         – Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

Canada’s  Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on World Environment Day

Posted June 5^th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

“Today (this June 5^th) , on World Environment Day <https://www.un.org/en/observances/environment-day>, we join the global community in celebrating nature and recommit ourselves to building a cleaner, more resilient world.

“World Environment Day 2021 marks the launch of the United Nations’ Decade on Ecosystem Restoration <https://www.decadeonrestoration.org/>. This international initiative reminds us of the vital importance of healthy ecosystems and the urgent need to restore, protect, and sustain them for generations to come. To help put nature and biodiversity on a path to recovery, I signed the Leaders’ Pledge for Nature <https://www.leaderspledgefornature.org/> in September. The race is on for a nature positive world in 2030.

“From purifying the air we breathe to providing us with nutritious food and fresh water, ecosystems are essential to our health and well-being. They are also key to our continued prosperity – in the fight against climate change, we have no stronger, more natural allies. Ecosystems, as large as the ocean and as small as a tree, work together to reduce pollution. They also offer protection from the worst impacts of climate change, from storm surges to heat waves. Continue reading →

United Nations Experts Call On Canada, Holy See To Investigate Mass Grave At Residential Schools

“We urge (Canadian) authorities to conduct full-fledged investigations into the circumstances and responsibilities surrounding these deaths, including forensic examinations of the remains found, and to proceed to the identification and registration of the missing children.” – United Nations

Some White nun, in the name of “ripping the Indian out of the Indian,” oversees Indigenous children, ripped away from their families by the RCMP, praying to God in one of Canada’s residential schools. All sanctioned by more than a hundred years from one Canadian government after another. One can’t help but ask how many of the children in this photo ended up iburied in an unmarked grave on the school grounds.

A News Release from the United Nation’s Human Rights Office in Geneva Switzerland

Posted June 4th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

United Nations (UN) human rights experts have urged Canadian authorities and the Catholic Church to conduct prompt and thorough investigations into the discovery of a mass grave containing the remains of over 200 children at a British Columbia ‘residential school’ for indigenous children forcibly taken from their homes.

Indigenous children in one of Canada’s residential schools, which ran up to the 1990s, forced to chalk lines on a black board while praising Jesus. Where in hell were we Canadians while this was still going on? Shame on us.

The Kamloops Indian Residential School, where the children’s remains were found, had been run by the Catholic Church between late 19th century and the late 1960s, when the federal government took over until its closure in the 1970s.

It was part of the indigenous residential school system which, between 1831 and 1996, hosted over 150,000 children in 130 schools, many run by the Catholic Church or the federal government. Continue reading →

Governments can save lives and minimize costs by investing proactively in measures that improve people’s health and security in the face of rising climate impacts

A New Report from The Canadian Institute for Climate Choices, made up of a individuals in a host of expert fields from across the country

Posted June 4^th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

OTTAWA, Ontario —As the world takes stock of how the COVID-19 pandemic continues  to impact the most vulnerable people, a new report from the Canadian Institute for Climate  Choices warns that climate change will similarly worsen health inequities and significantly  increase costs to Canada’s health system and economy without targeted government action.  

Published today, The Health Costs of Climate Change: How Canada Can Adapt, Prepare, and  Save Lives finds that climate change represents a significant public health threat that will  disproportionately harm those most vulnerable.   Continue reading →

“The pandemic has been particularly challenging for older adults. … Now that vaccines are flowing through our community, it is my hope that we will soon see a return to normal for seniors across Niagara.”    – Jim Bradley, Chair, Niagara Regional Council

Appointments to receive the COVID-19 vaccine are currently available. See Details Below.

A Statement from Niagara Regional Chair Jim Bradley on Seniors Month

Posted June 4^th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Regional Chair Jim Bradley

“Every June, we take time to acknowledge the substantial contributions that seniors and older adults make in our community.

This year, the theme for Seniors Month is Stay Safe, Active and Connected – this is particularly fitting as we continue to cope with the impacts of COVID-19 across Niagara.

Seniors and older adults continue to play an important role in our community by making significant contributions to our economy and volunteering thousands of hours each year to non-profit organizations.

Older adults in Niagara have a tremendous positive influence on the quality of live for everyone in our region, and Seniors Month is an excellent time to reflect on those contributions. Continue reading →

“This regulation has low targets, broad categories and poor reporting requirements. That means companies will still be able to churn out mountains of non-recyclable packaging destined for burial or burning and face no consequences.”                                                                                              – Emily Alfred, Waste Campaigner at the Toronto Environmental Alliance

A News Release from the public interest groups Environmental Defence, Health And Environment Justice Support, Toronto Environmental Alliance, Citizens’ Network On Waste Management, Waste Watch Ottawa And Canadian Environmental Law Association

Posted June 3^rd, 2021 on Niagara At Large

New Blue Box program put business interests ahead of protecting the environment

Plastic bottles and other plastic debris wash up on shores of Great Lakes.

Toronto, Ontario – This June 3^rd, 2021, Ontario Environment Minister Yurek announced changes to the province’s  Blue Box recycling program.

Unfortunately, this long-awaited shift of responsibility for Blue Box recycling from municipalities to the businesses who make, use and sell packaging will do little to reduce plastic pollution. 

Known as “extended producer responsibility,” the announcement signals that the new rules are light on measures to reduce plastics that end up in landfills, incinerators and the natural environment.  Continue reading →

“Our goal is to ensure our program remains convenient, affordable and right for communities. That’s why we are creating a stronger and more effective blue box service that will have some of the highest waste diversion targets in North America.”                                                                                                       – Ontario Minister of Environment, Conservation and Parks Jeff Yurek

A News Release from the Government of Ontario

Posted June 3^rd, 2021 on Niagara At Large

Province bringing recycling to more communities and expanding list of blue bin items

TORONTO, Ontario  — Following extensive consultations, the Ontario government is improving blue box recycling by expanding service to more communities, standardizing the list of materials that can be recycled across the province and saving municipalities money by making producers of products and packaging fully responsible for the cost and operation of the program.

“Producers and municipalities have been advocating for an enhanced, producer-led Blue Box program for over a decade and I’m proud that our government has finalized these improvements,” said Jeff Yurek, Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks. Continue reading →

“The recent news of the remains of 215 children discovered at the site of a former Kamloops Indian Residential School is a painful reminder of the lasting impact residential schools have on Indigenous communities across the country.”                                      – Jim Bradley, Chair of Niagara’s Regional Council

The flag’s for Niagara’s Regional Government and those for all 12 local municipalities in Niagara were lowered to half mast at the Region’s headquarters in Thorold this May 31 after news broke that the bodies of 215 children were discovered in a mass grave on the property of a former residential school in British Columbia. Photo by Doug Draper

A Statement from Niagara Regional Chair Bradley on National Indigenous History Month

Posted June 3^rd, 2021 on Niagara At Large

June is National Indigenous History Month

<https://www.rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca/eng/1466616436543/1534874922512>, giving us an opportunity to deepen our understanding of the distinct histories, diverse cultures and outstanding achievements of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples around Niagara.

The recent news  of the remains of 215 children discovered at the site of a former Kamloops Indian Residential School is a painful reminder of the lasting impact residential schools have on Indigenous communities across the country. Continue reading →

“Thank you to the LGBTQ2+ Advisory committee for their work on the design and implementation of the Pride Crosswalk. This design is a visible acknowledgement of the city’s solidarity with LGBTQ2+ communities here in St. Catharines and to visitors from afar. We want to ensure our community is a place where everyone feels seen and welcomed.”                                                        – St. Catharines Mayor Walter Sendzik

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

Posted June 3^rd, 2021 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – As Pride Month celebrations get underway the City of St. Catharines is celebrating the installation of its first Pride Crosswalk, recognizing the community’s diversity and the importance of continued efforts toward inclusion.

St. Catharines Mayor Walter Sendzik, left, atofficial opening of Pride crosswalk in city’s downtown. To the mayor’s right is LGBTQ2+ Advisory Committee Chair Liam Clarke-Coward. Photo courtesy of City of St. Catharines

The crosswalk was installed last week at the St. Paul Street pedestrian crossover located in front of the FirstOntario PAC, with a design developed in consultation with the City’s LGBTQ2+ and Anti-racism Advisory Committees. Continue reading →

Leaders Representing Buffalo, Niagara Falls, New York, Beaches-East York, Toronto & Malpeque, Prince Edward Island Push for Action

A Joint Statement from Buffalo, New York Area U.S. Congressman Higgins & Canadian Liberal Members of Parliament Erskine-Smith & Wayne Easter on Northern Border

Posted June 3^rd, 2021 on Niagara At Large

Sooner or later, our Canadian and U.S. Governments are going to have to release a plan for safely crossing the border on bridges like this – the Peace Bridge between Fort Erie, Ontario and Buffalo, New York

“Reopening our countries’ shared border must be a top priority for our respective governments at this point in the pandemic. For more than a year, Americans and Canadians have endured separation from their families, friends, and property in response to the public health crisis.

“Guidance from both the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Canada’s COVID-19 Testing and Screening Expert Advisory Panel is clear: individuals with proof of immunity can travel safely and should not be subject to quarantine requirements.

“It is time for our governments to listen to the experts and together release an evidence-based plan to reunite families, safely resume normal border operations, and quickly restore our two countries’ deeply interconnected economies.”

Higgins represents portions of Western New York, including the Cities of Buffalo and Niagara Falls in the U.S. House of Representatives. Erskine-Smith represents Beaches-East York, a downtown Toronto riding in Canada’s House of Commons. Easter represents the riding of Malpeque, Prince Edward Island.

Higgins & Easter serve as Co-Chairs of the Canada-U.S. Interparliamentary Group and regularly work on cross-border issues. The statement follows a virtual meeting between Higgins and Erskine-Smith.

The United States and Canada share 5,525 miles of border, the longest land boundary between two countries in the world.

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

Buffalo, New York area Congressman Brian Higgins has been calling on both countries for a safe border re-opening plan.

Okay, so I can already imagine more than a few readers saying; ‘Here we go again with this Congressman from the Buffalo, New York area calling for a plan for re-opening Canada-U.S. border crossings.

That Congressman – a Democrat from the Buffalo area named Brian Higgins – has been taking more than his fair share of hits from individuals on the Canadian side of the border for some time now calling for a strategy for eventually re-opening border crossings like the Peace Bridge to everyday traffic.

We all know that the border crossings – closed to all but so-called “essential traffic  for going on a year and a half now – are going to open sooner or later.

Higgins, by all accounts and his own words and as a long-time member of a Canada-U.S. border committee, has never been  calling for the border gates to be swung wide open. For the most part, he has advocated for people on both sides of the border, with valued properties or with beloved relatives they have not been able to visit in hospitals or long-term care homes, to be able to cross under rules that are safe for everyone.

I simply wanted to try to point that out for those who may read this post and criticize him again for asking for safe, science-based border -re-opening rules.

I would also say that, in the view of this Canadian journalist anyway, Buffalo are Congressman Brian Higgins has shown every sign of being a friend of Canada and we should feel good about having a U.S. political representative like him (rather than someone in the more hostile Trump camp) as a close neighbour.

• Doug Draper, Niagara At Large

NIAGARA AT LARGE Encourages You To Join The Conversation By Sharing Your Views On This Post In The Space Following The Bernie Sanders Quote Below.

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

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

Posted June 2^nd, 2021 on Niagara At Large

Sandbags holding back the rising and near record high waters of Lake Ontario in 2019 as, for the second or third year in a row, much of the beach area in the Port Dalhousie area of St. Catharines is swamped with water, resulting in costly damage and making the area off limits, for week as a recreational area. Photo by Doug Draper

Niagara, Ontario – Over the past decades or so, Niagara At Large has joined members of the pubic in taking well-warranted shots at municipal leaders across Niagara for taking positions that do more to harm than protect our shared environment.

Indeed, there continue to be examples of municipal politicians in Niagara, taking positions hurtful to what is left of our natural heritage, and Niagara At Large will continue to do what we can to call these politicians out.

And when there are examples of our municipal representatives working together with area residents and other public partners to do something positive for our environment, we need to praise them.

I ‘ve learned well enough, from my decades working as a news reporter, that even the best of our elected representatives find themselves buried in criticism when an issue surfaces that raises pubic ire. When things go right, they all too often hear the sound of crickets. Continue reading →

Buffalo, New York Area Congressman Brian Higgins Says if Travel Exemptions Can Be Made for Hockey Teams, Similar Allowances Can Be Made for Separated Families

Reports Indicate Plans Underway to Allow Crossings, Waive Quarantine Requirements for NHL Players

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

Posted June 2^nd, 2021 on Niagara At Large

Buffalo, New York – Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) responded to published reports<https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/31540404/nhl-working-health-authorities-plot-travel-exemption-canada-united-states-later-postseason-report-says> indicating plans are underway to accommodate NHL teams by extending exemptions for travel between the United States and Canada.

Buffalo, New York area Brian Higgins, seen in this file photo, speaking at a news conference with Peace Bridge crossing in background

Higgins said, “If exemptions can be made to bring hockey teams together, the same can be done to bring families together.”

Congressman Higgins does not oppose coordination to allow for teams to cross the border. Higgins is a member of the Congressional Hockey Caucus, played hockey as kid and has laced up his skates in recent years for charity hockey events.

The Congressman would simply like the two governments to work in the same urgent and deliberative manor to come to agreement on the process allowing for families to reunite after being separated for over 14 months. Continue reading →

“As Regional Chair, I will continue to advocate for equality as I stand in solidarity with the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.”                    – Niagara Regional Chair Jim Bradley

A Statement from Niagara Regional Chair Jim Bradley on Pride Month

Posted June 1^st, 2021 on Niagara At Large

Every June, we mark Pride Month across many parts of the world. While this time is often a cause for celebration in our community, it is also a time to reflect on the importance of equality, human rights, and the work that remains to eliminate discrimination in our society.

Niagara Regional Chair Jim Bradley, left at Pride Month flag raising at the Region’s headquarters in Thorold, with St. Catharines Regional Councillors George Darte and Laura Ip. Photo courtesy of Niagara Region

This term of council has taken strides to make Niagara a more welcoming and inclusive community. In addition to joining the Coalition of Inclusive Municipalities, we have also made investments by hiring our first Manager of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion to ensure our policies and practices are working  for everyone. Continue reading →

“Let this be the first step towards an honest reckoning with the past by Ontario, by Canada, and all the people who call this land home.”                                                                                                              – Suze Morrison, the NDP critic for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Response

A News Release from Ontario’s NDP Official Opposition Party

Posted May 31^st, 2021 on Niagara At Large

QUEEN’S PARK – After the remains of 215 children were found at a residential school in Kamloops, British Columbia, the Ontario NDP is calling on the Government of Ontario to work with Indigenous communities to use radar technology to investigate all lands and properties formerly associated with residential schools within Ontario.

“The legacy of residential schools is one of children being ripped away from their parents, disappearing forever. Those parents never stopped loving their children, and never stopped looking for them,” said Suze Morrison, the NDP critic for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Response.

Sol Mamakwa, NDP critic for Indigenous and Treaty Relations, said it is an open secret that children were buried at residential schools. Continue reading →

Niagara’s Regional Chair, Mayors Issue Statement Following Discovery of Indigenous Children In Mass Grave

”The discovery of this mass grave is a stark reminder of the devastating legacy that the Canadian residential school system continues to have on Indigenous people across our country.”  – from the Statement released by Niagara Regional Chair Jim Bradley and Niagara’s Mayors

A Statement from Niagara Regional Chair Jim Bradley and Niagara’s Mayors

Posted May 31^st 2021 on Niagara At Large

Regional Chair Jim Bradley and Niagara’s 12 mayors offered the following joint  statement:

On behalf of the people of Niagara, we have asked that flags be lowered at municipal facilities across the region in honour of the 215 children who were recently found in a mass grave at a former residential school in Kamloops. The flags will remain at half-mast for one hour for each of the lives that were taken.

Shrines of chidren’s shoes are appearing all over Canada following latest discovery of mass grave

Starting Monday, May 31, flags will be flown at half-mast until June 8.

The discovery of this mass grave is a stark reminder of the devastating legacy that the Canadian residential school system continues to have on Indigenous people across our country. As Canadians, we must never forget that residential schools forcefully removed Indigenous children from their families, robbed them of their culture, and exposed many of them to physical, mental and sexual abuse. Continue reading →

“Improving the energy efficiency of our homes not only cuts down on pollution, it also creates new jobs, economic growth, and a cleaner future for everyone.”                                                         – The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

Posted May 31st, 2021 on Niagara At Large

Ottawa, Ontario – Climate action starts at home. By helping Canadians make their homes more energy efficient, the Government of Canada is making it easier for them to reduce their  energy bills and making their lives more affordable. This will cut pollution,  create jobs and growth, and build a cleaner future for all Canadians.

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today launched the new Canada Greener Homes Grant, which will help up to 700,000 Canadian homeowners across the country improve the energy efficiency of their homes and reduce their energy bills through an investment of $2.6 billion over seven years. Continue reading →

A Brief News Commentary by Doug Draper at Niagara At Large, followed by Statements from Ontario’s Opposition Parties

Posted May 30^th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

Ontario Chief Medical Heath Officer Dr. David Williams is firing himself out. And who knows if we will ever get the whole story behind that exit.

For quite some time now, during the darkest times of waves two and three of this killer virus washing across the Ontario landscape, one wondered when Dr. David Williams, the province’s Chief Medical Heath Officer,  would finally call it a nightmare and leave the building.

This Monday, May 31^st. word has already leaked out that Dr. Williams is going to announce that he is doing just that – exit stage far right.

Indeed, there have been so many open letters from health professionals across Ontario, scolding Premier Doug Ford for not doing what he has always claimed he was doing – listening to the science rather than the worst among us in the business community, who have always chomped at the bit to get back to ‘business as usual’ when it was still too damn risky to do so.

And through all of this, there was Dr. Williams, often standing behind Premier Ford at news conferences, looking like he was in a hostage tape when it was his turn to speak. Then there was yet another round of health professionals from across the province, taking shots at Ford and Williams again for blowing off advice from others following the science. Continue reading →

Sixty-Five Per Cent of Adults Have Received First Doses, Ahead Of Schedule

News from the Office of Ontario Premier Doug Ford

Posted May 28^th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

TORONTO, Ontario — Ontario has reached a key milestone in its fight against COVID-19, having achieved its target to administer first doses to 65 per cent of Ontarians aged 18 and over ahead of schedule.

Ontario is also preparing to roll out the eligibility for accelerated second dose appointments starting with individuals aged 80 and over, beginning on May 31, 2021. If there is sufficient vaccine supply, it is anticipated that the majority of Ontario residents who choose to receive the vaccine will be able to be fully vaccinated by the end of summer.

“Team Ontario has shown what we can do when we have a steady and reliable supply of vaccines,” said Premier Ford. “Having made so much progress administering first doses, we are now in a position to begin delivering second doses for a two-dose summer. If we receive more vaccines from the federal government, we’ll be able to accelerate our rollout further to offer more protection to Ontarians even sooner.” Continue reading →

Greenbelt Foundation and EcoHealth Ontario Highlight the Importance of Investing in Natural Spaces

“Previous research by EcoHealth Ontario has shown nature is important for community health and well-being, and these case studies now help to also understand the true economic value from a health system resources perspective.”             – Edward McDonnell, Greenbelt Foundation CEO

News from Greenbelt Foundation, a charitable body dedicated to preserving Ontario’s Greenbelt, the  and EcoHealthOntario, an alliance of experts in the health and environmental fields

Posted May 27th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

TORONTO, Ontario —The Greenbelt Foundation and EcoHealth Ontario have released two new case studies and one survey design that showcase the economic, public health and community well-being benefits of urban greenspace.

Previous studies in the region have examined the health benefits of greenspace, but these are the first to calculate the health savings from those benefits using a framework developed by the EcoHealth collaborative. The framework can be used on future projects to inform policy and land-use decisions and can estimate total health system savings that would result from natural infrastructure investments. Continue reading →

“Once again, a heartfelt thank you to those in our community who rallied to respond to the call with generosity. The impact of your gift will be life-changing for many.”                                                     – Niagara, Ontario resident and business leader Tom Rankin

A News Release from Niagara Health, Niagara, Ontario’s amalgamated system of hospitals

Posted May 27^th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – The Niagara Health Foundation is humbled by the incredible support and community spirit it has seen during its recent efforts to bring a 3rd MRI (magnetic resonance imagery) machine to Niagara.

The Foundation was supported by Tom Rankin, who put out a community-wide call-to-action to support bringing a third MRI to the Niagara Region.

The outpouring of support from Mr. Rankin’s efforts was almost immediate and created a flood of support and well wishes to Niagara Health, raising $2,800,000 in just over two months. Continue reading →

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

Posted May 27^th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

Prime Minister delivers apology for internment of Italian Canadians during Second World War

Ottawa, Ontario – The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today (May 27^th, 2021) delivered a formal apology in the House of Commons for the internment of Italian Canadians during the Second World War.

Following Italy’s declaration of war against Canada on June 10, 1940, the Government of Canada interned more than 600 people of Italian heritage.

Around 31,000 Italian Canadians across the country were declared “enemy aliens”, and many experienced discrimination, lost their jobs, or saw their businesses boycotted or vandalized. The government’s actions violated the values that our country was fighting to secure during the Second World War, including freedom, equality, and justice, and had serious impacts on families and the Italian Canadian community. Continue reading →

“Happiness is a warm gun. Bang, bang. Shoot, shoot.”                   – from a song by former Beatle John Lennon, who was gunned down in America in 1980

A Commentary by Niagara At Large reporter and publisher Doug Draper

Posted May 27^th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

I know this is going to sound callous, but when CNN came in with “BREAKING NEWS” this May 26^th that there has been another mass shooting in America, my first instincts this time were to switch over to the Food Channel or turn my cable screen off completely.

Here we go again. Another mass shooting in America. And stay tuned for the next one.

How much more mass shooting news from America can one take, with all of the stock lines from residents and political leaders in the community like; “I can thought this would happen here” and “This is not who we are.”

And this has always been one of my favourites from members of America’s powerful gun lobby; “Now is not the time to talk about gun control.”

This May 26^ths mass shooting took place at a large transit terminal in San Jose, California where one of the terminal’s long-time employees, who reportedly had anger management issues, killed at least nine of his fellow employees before cheating some lawyers of work by doing himself in.

I once felt the sorrow and shock that so many others have at the news of these mass shooting, but they have become so routine in the United States that it is getting harder and harder to work up some tears for them, even though one knows how tragic they must be for families of the victims. Continue reading →

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

Posted May 26th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

With so much bad news these days – so much of it focused on an Ontario government and its enablers working to weaken programs for protecting our natural heritage – you have to celebrate goods news when you get it.

Niagara Regional Chair Jim Bradley and Pelham Regional Councillor hold a toast to planting trees at a major tree-planting event on the grounds of the Region’s Decew Water Treatment Plan on the borders of St. Catharines and Thorold in Niagara, Ontario . Photo by Doug Draper

In that spirit, how good it was this May 25th, to go out to Niagara Region’s Decew Falls Water Treatment Plant to cover a story about a large tree-planting project our Regional Government is involved in on acres of the Decew Falls property, in partnership with the good people at Land Care Niagara

The two Regional Councillors who were there for this ground-breaking event are among our most progressive when it comes to looking forward to a post-pandemic future in Niagara that re-imagines how we plan growth and prosperity with respect to protecting and growing what is left of our natural environment. Continue reading →

A Commentary by Niagara At Large reporter and publisher           Doug Draper

Posted May 25th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Regional Councillor and West Lincoln Mayor David Bylsma under the gun again for his recent participation in an anti-lockdown rally in St. Catharines/Niagara

Like one of those holier than thou, evangelical preachers south of the border who’ve been caught doing something naughty West Lincoln Mayor and Niagara Regional Councillor David Bylsma took up some the first minutes of a Niagara Region council meeting this past May 20^th, prostrating himself for his latest sin.

As you will see (if you care to open up a link to a video at the bottom of this commentary). Bylsma was allowed time the meeting to apologize to the people of the West Lincoln he represents as a mayor, to the people of Niagara he represents as a Regional Councillor, to members of the Council and not least of all, to a young citizen of Niagara who, in a recent Twitter message, Bylsma so thoughtlessly, and without invitation from her, asked a question about her menstrual cycle.

Through this pitiful spectacle of self-flogging, the beleaguered mayor characterized himself at one point as a “wayward child” who sent the tweet out to the young woman in a statue of “fatigue.” Continue reading →

Niagara Centre Liberal MP Vance Badawey

“It’s one thing to say you want to preserve heritage buildings; it’s quite another to develop a plan to pay for that preservation and to make an older building viable to the wider community. The Central Station Education Initiative deserves all of our thanks for caring about the history of Welland and making sure we continue to enjoy the use of our 100-year-old fire hall by ensuring this architecturally significant building will continue to be a landmark in the downtown core.”                                                                                           – Niagara Centre MP Vance Badawey

News from the Constituency Office of Niagara Centre Liberal MP Vance Badawey

Posted May 24^th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

WELLAND, Ontario, – The Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Canadian Heritage,  announced (earlier this May) an investment of $500,000 over three years for the Central Station Education Initiative to support the restoration of the historical Central Fire Hall in Welland.

Welland’s historic Central Fire Hall remains a heritage gem in Niagara

Minister Guilbeault was joined by Vance Badawey, Member of Parliament (Niagara Centre).

The preservation and repurposing of the fire station in the heart of downtown Welland will provide the community with a gathering place to learn about history and arts.

The station will provide information about the history of firefighting and other services in the Niagara Region, preserving memories of the past for future generations. It will also serve as a place where groups and individuals interested in the arts, culture and history can come together. Continue reading →

“Once a natural asset is gone, it is gone forever. … I think, we have to remember that.” – Niagara Regional Chair Jim Bradley, at meeting of the Region’s Council this May 20th, 2021

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

Posted May 21^st, 2021 on Niagara At Large

A Red-Tail Hawk soars over what is left of the precious green and blue natural places in our Niagara region. Studies show we are already down to less than what we need for a healthy. sustainable future.

One of the good Niagara citizens, who took time they will never get back this May 20^th to live stream the meeting of Niagara Regional Council, sent this reporter an email afterword that led with the words; “Where does one begin?”

Where does one begin, indeed!

Those words summarize a justifiable response to so many of the smoke bombs, along with the babble gab and Grade A B.S. coming from the usual suspects on the Region’s Council, and often looking so orchestrated, that clouded an oh-so-long session on where Niagara goes around protecting what is left of our life-sustaining water resources and green places. Continue reading →

Province Safely Reopening Outdoor Recreational Amenities Prior to End of Stay-at-Home Order

A News Release from the Government of Ontario

Posted May 20th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

TORONTO, Ontario  — The Ontario government, in consultation with the Chief Medical Officer of Health, has released its Roadmap to Reopen, a three-step plan to safely and cautiously reopen the province and gradually lift public health measures based on the provincewide vaccination rate and improvements in key public health and health care indicators.

In response to recent improvements to these indicators, Ontario will allow more outdoor recreational amenities to reopen, with restrictions in place, effective May 22, 2021 at 12:01 a.m.

“As a result of the strict public health measures we introduced to stop the spread of COVID-19 variants, we are seeing a steady improvement in our situation as ICU and hospital numbers begin to stabilize,” said Premier Doug Ford. Continue reading →

Please Join Us For An Informative Discussion – This coming May 27^th from 7 to 8:30 P.M. – About Expanding Protected Areas. See Details For Registering Below

An Invite to All from Ontario Nature, a public interest group dedicated to protecting and preserving Ontario’s natural areas

Posted May 20th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

Please join us on May 27th for an informative discussion about expanding Ontario’s protected areas.

During the Your Protected Places webinar, we will consider emerging opportunities and unveil a collective StoryMap showcasing special places across the province that people would like to permanently set aside from development for future generations.

Though the Government of Ontario recently announced its intention to protect more natural areas <https://ontarionature.thankyou4caring.org/page.redir?target=https%3a%2f%2fnews.ontario.ca%2fen%2frelease%2f60977%2fontario-working-with-conservation-experts-to-protect-more-natural-areas&srcid=47768&srctid=1&erid=7167978&trid=878925b2-451c-4597-9444-2ab72051c546>, it provided no public process for offering input on where or how protected areas should be established. Continue reading →

Statement by Congressman Higgins on Extension of the US-Canada Border Shutdown Homeland Security Keeps Northern Border Closed to Non-Essential Travel Through June 21

Posted May 20^th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

Buffalo, New York area Democratic Congressman Biran Higgins has been pushing for months now for a safe plan for gradual border re-opening.

Buffalo, New York – U.S. Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) expressed great disappointment following the announcement that the United States and Canada have continued to keep the Northern Border closed to non-essential travel for another full month.

“It is truly unacceptable at this point to have another 30-day extension with no further exceptions for those vaccinated, no goals or targets outlined to expand crossings, no reciprocal allowances for family reunification, and no plan,” said Higgins, who serves as Co-Chair of the Northern Border Caucus and the Canada-US Interparliamentary Group.

“We have made great strides in fighting the pandemic and we need to make progress on reopening the border. That is essential to both families that have been separated for way too long and to our binational economies.” Continue reading →

Let’s At Long Last Put the Health and Economic Welfare of our Communities  Ahead of the Short-Term, Growth-At-Any-Cost Greed of the Predators in Niagara’s Development Industry 

A Commentary by and Plea from Niagara At Large reporter and publisher Doug Draper

Posted May 17^th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

A Red-Tail Hawk soars over what is left of the precious green and blue natural places in our Niagara region. Studies show we are already down to less than what we need for a healthy. sustainable future.

“I recently became a great grandmother and in 2051, when my great granddaughter is 29 or 30 years old and I will be 98, and … if I am still around, I would like to be able to look around and see a Niagara that is still green and that we have made the best decisions going forward that preserves what really makes Niagara special.”

Those were some of the final words from Port Colborne Regional Councilor Barbara Butters at a meeting this past May 12^th of Niagara Region’s Planning and Economic Development Committee.

At the same committee meeting, where options for protecting Niagara’s environmental system were being considered for approval, members of the public urged members of the committee to vote in favour on an option identified as 3C that would provide a higher level of protection for woodlands, hedgerows and other green place, and for water resources like wetlands, both in and outside urban boundaries across our region. Continue reading →

The Following is a Moving Message from some of Niagara’s Children Shared by the Biodiversy and Climate Action Committee of Niagara

Posted May 19th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

These two young brothers care about the environment.

They go to the Woodland school in Niagara and belong to its Green Heron Ecoclub.

Their club made this fantastic four-minute video that talks about their concern for Niagara’s unique and special environment.

Please take a few minutes to watch it by clicking on the screen immediately below – 

For more on the Biodiversity and Climate Action Committee, a large coalition of individuals and groups dedicated to working for a healthier natural in Niagara, click on – Biodiversity and Climate Action Committee – Niagara

Please contact your members of Niagara Regional Council NOW and urge them to support Option 3C – a higher level of protection for Niagara’s water resources and green places – when they meet for a Regional Council Meeting this Thursday, May 20th at 6:30 p.m.

For contact information for your Regional Councillors, click on – https://www.niagararegion.ca/government/council/profiles/default.aspx

Please also feel free to share this entire post of messages from children by emailing the link for it to your Regional Councillors. Here is the link – https://niagaraatlarge.com/2021/05/19/tell-our-regional-councillors-to-protect-niagaras-natural-heritage-for-our-children/ .

Read a related story on what is at stake now at Niagara Regional Council by clicking on – https://niagaraatlarge.com/2021/05/19/regional-councillors-have-one-more-chance-to-get-it-right-on-protecting-niagaras-natural-heritage-for-future-generations/ .

NIAGARA AT LARGE Encourages You To Join The Conversation By Sharing Your Views On This Post In The Space Following The Bernie Sanders Quote Below.

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

Niagara Regional Chair Releases Statement Regarding Inappropriate Comments by Bylsma

Bylsma Sent Out Recent Twitter to Niagara Resident, Asking Her a Question About Her “Period”

A Brief Foreword from Niagara At Large reporter and publisher Doug Draper followed by a May 18^th, 2021 Statement issued by Niagara Regional Chair Jim Bradley

Posted May 18^th, 2021 on Niagara At Large

A Foreword by NAL journalist Doug Draper –

Niagara Regional Councillor and West Lincoln Mayor David Bylsma under the gun again f

What gives with David Bylsma?

When I first met him in the parking lot of the Niagara Regional Headquarters in late 2018, short after he was sworn in as Mayor of West Lincoln (an elected post that automatically earns him at seat on the Region’s Council, he didn’t strike me as a genius, but he seemed like a nice enough guy.

Yes, I already knew he was president of a fringe, far right political outfit called the Christian Heritage Party of Canada, and that he took a hard stand against abortion and did not believe climate change has anything to do with human activities but I, like others, was not prepared for what was to come.

Since then, Bylsma has found himself in hot water with fellow councillors and others for such things as making controversial comments about the LGBTQ  community and Black Lives Matter on a local radio program. Continue reading →