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New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo

“No one should be talking about social Darwinism for the sake of the stock market. The first order of business is to save lives, whatever it costs.”                           – Andrew Cuomo, Governor of New York

From the Office of New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo

Posted March 25th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

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

I can’t imagine anyone who has access to cable television and has taken the time to watch New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo’s almost daily update briefings on the toll that COVID-19 is taking on his state and what his government is doing to address it, who has not been impressed with the strength and candor and passion that comes through in his words.

New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo, at a March 24th news conference, where he updated citizens on the status of the coronavirus COVID-19 outbreak

No wonder so many are now looking at him as a model for how to lead during these times and have taken to calling him “America’s Governor.” What a contrast from the delusional buffoon now occupying the White House. Continue reading →

“It is my unfortunate duty to report that a patient being treated at Niagara Health for COVID-19 passed away earlier today.”       – Niagara Health President Lynn Guerriero

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

Posted March 24th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

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

The following statement, from Niagara Health President Lynn Guerriero came in just before 7 p.m. this March 24^th and, I must admit, my fingers are shaking a little as I key in these words.

This is all of the information we have about this death so far, but all of our hearts should go out to members of this person’s family and to those who loved and cared about this person.

My fear is that this is just the first news of this nature that we are going to receive in our Niagara region in the days, weeks and possibly the next number of months ahead.

Please heed all of the urges from health experts to stay home and stay safe)

A Statement from Niagara Health President Lynn Guerriero –

It is my unfortunate duty to report that a patient being treated at Niagara Health for COVID-19 passed away earlier today. On behalf of the hospital, I would like to extend our sincere condolences to the patient’s family and loved ones at this extremely sad time. We all mourn this loss as a community, and this passing reinforces Niagara Health’s commitment to continue providing safe, high-quality and compassionate care.

Niagara Health has been planning for the arrival of COVID-19 in our community for months. We have a comprehensive plan in place to support the safety, health and well-being of our patients. We will continue to work with our experts and our regional, provincial and federal healthcare partners to make evidence-based decisions to ensure the hospital remains as safe as possible over the course of this pandemic.

A Brief Update from Niagara At Large – Since this news was posted March 24th, Niagara At Large has learned that the person who died was an 84-year-old resident of Grafton Gage Village, a retirement and long-term care home in St. Catharines/Niagara.

The person was admitted to hospital more than a week ago where a test confirmed that he had the coronavirus. He had apparently been infected by a relative wh had recently been in Europe.

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

“This declaration will better position the Town as we respond to this rapidly evolving situation. We must seize this opportunity in an effort to stop the potential for community spread.”                    – Niagara-on-the-Lake Lord Mayor Betty Disero

News from the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake in Niagara, Ontario

Posted March 23^rd, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Niagara-on-the-Lake Lord Mayor Betty Disero

Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario – Today (this March 23^rd), in consultation with the Town’s Emergency Control Group (ECG) and with the support of her Town Council colleagues, Lord Mayor Betty Disero declared a state of emergency to further protect Niagara-on-the-Lake from the potential spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act S. 4(1) states –

“The head of council of a municipality may declare that an emergency exists in the municipality or in any part thereof and may take such action and make such orders as he or she considers necessary and are not contrary to law to implement the emergency plan of the municipality and to protect property and the health, safety, and welfare of the inhabitants of the emergency area.”

An emergency declaration aligns the Town with the Province granting the Mayor the authority to take such action as she considers necessary to implement the Town’s Emergency Response Plan. Continue reading →

See a Link for A List of Workplaces and Businesses Consered “Essential” Enough to Remain Open Below

Business-owners Encouraged to Continue their Operations Through Work-From-Home Policies and Innovative Business Models

An Update from the Office of the Ontario Premier

Posted March 24^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

TORONTO — Due to the evolving COVID-19 situation, the Ontario government will be ordering at-risk workplaces to close-down, while encouraging businesses to explore opportunities to continue operations through work-from-home and innovative business models.

At the same time, the government reminds businesses to put in place protocols for physical distancing and regular hand-washing in order to protect the health and safety of employees and the general public. Continue reading →

A Commentary by Doug Draper at Niagara At Large, followed by a message we should all take seriously from Leslie Daniels, a retired nurse in Niagara, Ontario

Posted March 23^rd on Niagara At Large

Not that I don’t take it  seriously, but I may not have  been freaking out over the Coronavirus outbreak as much as I think some people have.

Yet one of the more frightening pieces of news I read in one of our local newspapers over the past week or so is that in all of Niagara, Ontario, at least as of March 19^th date the article was posted, there are on enough hospital beds to handle “about 54 severe cases of COVID-19” at any one time.

Think about that my fellow Niagara citizens.

In a region with a population of more than 440,000 residents, we only have (as of only a few days ago, at least) enough hospital beds in Niagara for slightly more than 50 people who may come down with a severe case of this potentially fatal virus. Continue reading →

New Measures – effective as of Tuesday, March 24^th at 11:59 p.m. – to Further Protect the Health and Safety of the People of Ontario

News from the Office of the Ontario Premier

Posted March 23^rd, 2020 on Niagara At Large

TORONTO — To further contain the spread of COVID-19, the Ontario Government will order the mandatory closure of all non-essential workplaces effective as of Tuesday, March 24th at 11:59 p.m.

This closure will be in effect for 14 days with the possibility of extending this order as the situation evolves. A full list of businesses that are permitted to stay open will be released tomorrow.

“This was a tough decision, but the right decision, as this is no time for half measures,” said Premier Doug Ford. Continue reading →

“Canada is home to some of the most skilled and brightest researchers in the world. … We are all in this together, and need to be doing our part to prevent the spread of the virus.”                 – Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

Another Update from Canada’s Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau

Posted March 23^rd, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau

The Government of Canada is supporting our country’s researchers as they do critical work to protect the health and safety of all Canadians, and people around the world, during the COVID-19 outbreak.

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced support to quickly mobilize Canadian researchers and life sciences companies to support large-scale efforts towards countermeasures to combat COVID-19, including potential vaccines and treatments.

This $275 million for coronavirus research and medical countermeasures is part of the Government of Canada’s more than $1 billion COVID-19 Response Fund. The funding will be used to advance projects that are already underway by university researchers and others to respond to COVID-19, and ensure domestic supply of potential vaccines. Continue reading →

Province of Ontario Launches First Phase Of The Learn At Home Portal

For Students Who Do Not Have Access To A Computer, Work Is Underway, In Conjunction With School Boards, To Provide The Necessary Technology To Everyone Who Needs It.

News from the Office of the Ontario Premier

Posted March 23rd, 2020 at Niagara At Large

TORONTO — Ontario Premier Doug Ford has joined Stephen Lecce, Minister Of Education to launch the first phase of Learn At Home And Apprendre À La Maison, a new online portal that will provide resources for families so students can continue their education while schools are closed due to the ongoing COVID-19 Situation.

“As a father myself, i know parents always want the best for their children, and i also know from speaking to parents that many are concerned that their child is going to fall behind while schools are closed during this difficult period,” said Premier Ford.

“To support families and students, our government has developed a one-stop spot for at-home learning. It doesn’t replace school, but offers a great alternative as we approach the end of March Break.” Continue reading →

“Organize everyone you know to scream bloody murder today. Let your governor/mayor/Senator/President know you will not tolerate one more fucking day of this.” – Michael Moore

By Michael Moore, from Michael Moore’s Facebook Page

Posted March 23rd, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Academy Award-winning filmmaker, author and journalist Michael Moore

A woman in my apartment building was taken out by EMT workers yesterday and died shortly after.

She tested positive for the coronavirus. Rest her soul, blessings upon her.

A chill spread through many in the building, knowing this is only the first of these, here & everywhere. The media doesn’t want you to panic.

The politicians insist that you not panic. I’m here to tell you to panic. Panic like you’ve never panicked before. Continue reading →

Government requests recall of the House of Commons to help workers and businesses during COVID-19 crisis

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau

“Canadians are counting on all parliamentarians to work together to help them during this difficult time. Canadians are worried about their health and their jobs, and we need everyone to come together and do their part”                                                       – Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

News from the Office of Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

Posted March 22nd, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Ottawa, Ontario – The Government of Canada is taking strong and quick action to protect the health and safety of all Canadians, stabilize our economy, and help workers and businesses as COVID-19 continues to spread.

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today (this Sunday, March 22nd, 2020) announced that the Government House Leader has asked the Speaker of the House of Commons to recall the House in order to introduce urgent economic measures, as part of Canada’s $82 billion response to support workers and businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Continue reading →

‘Regional Government will continue working closely with all levels of government and our public health partners to monitor the evolving COVID-19 developments and take action to protect the health and well-being of our citizens and staff.’

News from Niagara’s Regional Government

Posted March 22nd, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – Beginning Monday, March 23, all Niagara Region facilities, including Regional  headquarters, public health centres, public works facilities and others, will be  closed to general public access. Access to Regional facilities will be limited to necessary interactions, including deliveries, and Regional Council and committee meetings.

Niagara, Ontario’s regional government headquarters where, for the time being, everyone is not welcome due to the need to keep a safe distance in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak.

This proactive measure is being taken to limit the spread of COVID-19 and to ensure that Regional staff can continue to safely deliver essential services to Niagara residents. During this time, staff will also take measures to practice social distancing and avoid unnecessary in-person gatherings. Continue reading →

Together, We Can Survive This & Come Out Even Stronger on the Other Side!

“Well, I won’t back down
No, I won’t back down
You can stand me up at the gates of hell
But I won’t back down”

                                            – from a song by Tom Petty

A Brief Comment from Doug Draper, Niagara At Large

Posted Friday, March 20^th, 2020

Was it really just a month or so ago that kids were walking along the sidewalks, on their way back and forth to school, or that we could greet friends with a hug or a shake of a hand?

Yes, we were hearing news about this mysterious virus infecting people and tragically killing some, but that was happening somewhere oceans away, on the other side of the world. We were still working at our jobs, attending social gatherings and shopping at our favourite stores.

Now, as if the sunlight in our lives has faded within a few minutes, this killer virus has arrived at our doorstep, and there are no more hugs and handshakes, there is one restriction after another on our travel, and most everything and every place we like to do or go has been cancelled or shut down.

Yet, as disappointing and disturbing and frightening as it all is, we have to promise each other that we are not going to let it defeat our resolve to survive and come out of this stronger than we were before. Continue reading →

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau

“We’re partnering with Canadian industry and business so we can act fast to ensure our health care providers have the products and supplies they need to help Canadians. Together, we are mobilizing all of Canada to fight the spread of the virus.” 

 – Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

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

Posted March 20^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Ottawa, Ontario – The COVID-19 outbreak continues to evolve rapidly, and the government is mobilizing Canadian businesses and manufacturers to help fight the spread of the virus and protect the health and safety of all Canadians.

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced Canada’s Plan to Mobilize Industry to fight COVID-19, which will create pathways to deploy resources to domestic manufacturers and businesses so they can help during this critical time.

The Plan introduces new measures to directly support these businesses to rapidly scale up production or re-tool their manufacturing lines to develop products made in Canada that will help in the fight against COVID-19. These products could include critical health and safety supplies and equipment, including personal protective equipment, sanitization products, diagnostic and testing products, and disease tracking technology. Continue reading →

Here Comes the Sunshine List!

The Public Sector Salary Disclosure Act, 1996 makes Ontario’s public sector more open and accountable to taxpayers. The act requires organizations that receive public funding from the Province of Ontario to make public, by March 31 each year, the names, positions, salaries and total taxable benefits of employees paid $100,000 or more in the previous calendar year.

News from the Ontario Government’s Treasury Board Secretariat

Posted March 20^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

A Brief Foreword Note from Doug Draper at Niagara At Large –

Let me begin by saying this. 

There are a good number of public servants out there who are performing valuable services for us and are worth every penny they get.

Now let me finish, for the moment at least,  with this.

If you aren’t feeling upset enough over what the ongoing coronavirus outbreak is doing to our collective lives, you might want to do what I know many others do each year when the latest Public Sector Salary Disclosure documents are released – click on the appropriate link below, look up your least favourite public servants in Ontario in your least favourite publicly-funded bodies, and yell at the screen when you find out how much they made last year in salary and benefits. Continue reading →

Those who believe they have been exposed to COVID-19 can contact Public Health at 905-688-8248 ext. 7019 or toll free at 1-888-505-6074 for an initial screening. Based on that assessment, patients may be referred to the Assessment Centre.’

News from Niagara Health, Niagara, Ontario’s amalgamated hospital system

Posted March 30th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – Niagara Health’s second dedicated COVID-19 Assessment Centre is now open at the St. Catharines site. The Assessment Centres in St. Catharines and Niagara Falls are available by referral only. 

Those who believe they have been exposed to COVID-19 can contact Public Health at 905-688-8248 ext. 7019 or toll free at 1-888-505-6074 for an initial screening. Based on that assessment, patients may be referred to the Assessment Centre. Staff at the centre will contact referred patients directly to arrange an appointment.  Continue reading →

“Given the uncertainty and financial impact of this evolving pandemic, we want to provide assurance to our community that we understand their concerns. No additional late fees will be applied during the grace period and we will not disconnect customers who are in arrears.”                                                                – City of St. Catharines CAO Shelley Chemnitz.

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

Posted March 20th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Downtown St. Catharines where the city has temporarily waived parking charges

Niagara, Ontario – The City of St. Catharines is introducing a payment grace period to support residents and businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The City has also suspended payment for parking on street, and in municipal lots.

The grace period for payment – which runs until June 30 – means late fees and interest penalties will not be applied to water and tax payments, as well as accounts receivables. Water bills continue to be issued across the City as scheduled.

The City has also suspended all water disconnections due to non-payment. Continue reading →

All Thumbs Up  to Everyone from our Health Care and other Public Service Workers, to the those Stocking the Shelves and Manning the Cash Registers at the Grocery Store

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

Posted March 19th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

The sign this man was holding up in downtown St. Catharines in Niagara, Ontario this March 18th hit the spot during these troubling times. Drivers waved and honked horns of approval as they passed. Photo by Doug Draper

Following a special session this March 18^th of Niagara’s Regional Council– one in which the Region’s Chair Jim Bradley rightfully took time to thank thousands of municipal staff across Niagara for keeping essential services working during these very troubling times – I decided to take a brief drive around Thorold and St. Catharines.

For whatever reason, I wanted to take that ride just to see what, if anything may have changed in in a Niagara that is now counting up its own confirmed cases of people who have tested positively for the COVID-19 coronavirus.

It was a little after 5 p.m. and as I drove north on Glenridge Avenue toward St. Catharines’ downtown, I was struck by how little traffic was on the road during a time of day when the streets would normally be busy with people driving home from work.

I passed no more than a half a dozen or so pedestrians as I drove the whole  length of Glenridge Avenue from the Niagara Escarpment to Westchester Crescent before turning left to St. Paul Street. Continue reading →

Regional Chair Jim Bradley Shares Hope Niagara Will Emerge from Coronavirus Crisis a ‘Stronger, More Resilient Community’

Niagara Mayors and Regional Chair join together to form Niagara Economic Rapid Response Team

A Brief Report by Doug Draper, following by a News Release from Niagara’s Regional Government

Posted March 18th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Regional Chair Jim Bradley .

Niagara, Ontario – Members of Niagara’s Regional Council held a special meeting this March 18th to address some of the concerns and challenges Niagara is facing in the wake of the ongoing coronavirus outbreak.

Niagara’s Regional Chair Jim Bradley began the meeting by noting that a few regional councillors from across Niagara were not in attendance because they were in “self-isolation”’ at home “after travelling outside of the country,” and those who were there were seated further apart from one and another – following the recommendations of health experts around the world that people should practice “social distancing” to prevent spread of what appears to be a highly infectious virus.

Bradley went on to thank the Region’s staff for the work they are doing, despite what is a “rapidly evolving situation” that could grow worse before it gets better , to keep services working. Continue reading →

Province’s NDP Will Support Ford’s ‘Emergency Legislation’ this March 19^th, But Says It Falls Well Short

Ontario NDP and Official Opposition Leader Andrea Horwath

“The NDP has been pushing for leave from work to be paid, not unpaid, along with other measures. … We won’t give up on getting people the help they need.”                                                                – Ontario NDP Leader Andrea Horwath

A Statement from Ontario’s NDP Official Opposition Leader Andrea Horwath

Posted March 18^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

QUEEN’S PARK — Andrea Horwath, Leader of the Official Opposition New Democrats, released the following statement on Wednesday:

“Thursday afternoon, the Legislative Assembly will reconvene to deal with emergency legislation for workers who need to miss work as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Continue reading →

Both countries have shut down all cross-border travellers to visitors, vacationers and for anyone or anything over than essential commercial reasons.

A Brief News Commentary by Doug Draper

Posted March 18th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

(A Note from Doug Draper – Since I posted this commentary earlier this March 18th, I have heard mixed reports about 9/11 and whether or not the land crossings between the U.S. and Canada may have been closed to at least some traffic for a matter of days after the attacks. If anyone out there has more definitive information on that, please share it in the comment area below this post.)

The Peace Bridge in Fort Erie/Buffalo and other Canada/U.S. border crossings have been shut down to all but commerical trucks and other “essential” traffic.. File photo by Doug Draper

Canadians and Americans have collectively called it “the largest undefended border in the world.”

In normal times, countless hundreds of thousands of people from both countries cross it each day.

But as has been sinking in for all of us in recent weeks, we are no longer living in anything resembling normal times.

So one of the many restrictions that at least some of us may have been anticipating in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak has now come into effect, and it is as follows.

This March 18^th, 2020, in consultation with the U.S. federal government, our Canadian government has announced that it has now “temporarily,” and for an unknown period of time, has shut down cross-border travel to all but those transporting commercial goods back and forth. Continue reading →

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau

“No Canadian should have to worry about paying their rent or buying groceries during this difficult time. That is why we are taking the strong action needed to stabilize our economy and help those impacted by the COVID-19 virus. Together, we will get through this difficult time.”                                                                      – Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

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

Posted March 18^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

(A Brief Foreword Note from Doug Draper at Niagara At Large – Finally, after several weeks of calls from health care workers and other parties speaking on behalf of low-income workers with few or not benefits, Canada’s Prime Minister and his Liberal government have announced the following measures. Ontario’s Premier, Doug Ford, and his Tories  and their so-called ‘Government for the People’ are so far another story.)

Ottawa, Ontario – The Government of Canada is taking strong and quick action to protect our economy, and the health, safety, and jobs of all Canadians during the global COVID-19 outbreak.

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced a new set of economic measures to help stabilize the economy and help Canadians affected by the impacts of this challenging period.

These measures, delivered as part of the Government of Canada’s COVID-19 Economic Response Plan, will provide up to $27 billion in direct support to Canadian workers and businesses, plus $55 billion to meet liquidity needs of Canadian businesses and households through tax deferrals to help stabilize the economy.  Continue reading →

Ontario Health Minister Christine Elliott

“Our government is breaking down siloes within the health care sector as part of our plan to end hallway health care and build a modern, sustainable and connected health care system for current and future generations.” – Ontario Health Minister Christine Elliott

A News Release from the Ontario Ministry of Health

Posted March 18^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

(A Brief Foreword Note from Doug Draper at NAL – Sorry to sound so jaded about anything this Ford government in Ontario does to our essential services, but I am posting this news release from Ford’s health minister, wondering what gremlins might be hiding behind Doors # 1,2 and 3. So Niagara At Large will have reaction to this announcement, and there will almost surely be some, as it comes in.)

Measures said by Ford government to help end ‘hallway medicine’ and overcrowding in province’s hospitals

Ontario is building healthier and safer communities by taking further steps to end hallway health care and build an integrated, connected health care system.

Today (this March 18^th), Christine Elliott, Deputy Premier and Minister of Health, issued a transfer order under the Connecting Care Act, 2019 to transfer the Ontario Telemedicine Network (OTN) to Ontario Health, the province’s new health agency.

The transfer will take effect on April 1, 2020. Continue reading →

Katrina Miller, Broadbent Institute

“This pandemic has made life more difficult than ever for low-income and precarious workers. Too many people are currently unable to access Employment Insurance and worry about how they will make ends meet during this crisis.”                                       – Katrina Miller, Program Director, Broadbent Institute

A Call-Out to All of Us  from the Broadbent Institute, an independent voice for the progressive principles of its name-sake, former leader of Canada’s New Democratic Party, Ed Broadbent

Posted March 18^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Another day of the COVID-19 pandemic and I know you are doing everything you can to protect the health and well-being of yourself and your fellow community members.

Right now, we need you to help us <https://www.broadbentinstitute.ca/covid> make sure no one goes to work sick because they are worried about paying for rent or buying groceries. Continue reading →

A deer in Waverly Woods in Fort Erie/Niagara, an area now targeted for urban development. This has got to be stopped.

Join the Fight by Signing in the Post the Petition Below

Nothing Less Than Our Region’s Rich Natural Heritage is at Stake!

A Call-Out from Marcie Jacklin, for Community Voices of Fort Erie, a citizens group working to save Waverly Woods along the shores of Lake Erie in Niagara, Ontario

Posted March 17th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – Government is once again planning on environmental deregulation, this time with Conservation Authorities.

Inside Waverly Woods, near the shores of Lake Erie in Fort Erie, Ontario. The citizens fight continues to save it.

For many of us in Niagara we have seen what happens when bad politicians had too much influence in the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority.

It cost the tax payers a lot of money and resulted in the Auditor General doing an investigation. Yet this is the direction the Ontario Government wants to head. 

The NPCA manages the impact of human activities, urban growth, and rural activities on the Niagara Peninsula watershed with programs and services that help keep people and their property safe from flooding and erosion, while retaining the safety of our drinking water.

I can assure you that the current Board of NPCA and the CAO are very much improved over the previous regime. Please help them by taking part in the survey below.  (A March 13th deadline has passed for this but don’t let that stop you from lending your name and voice to this urgent matter.)

Survey link: https://www.ontario.ca/form/survey-ontario-conservation-authorities Continue reading →

Will the onging Coronavirus Crisis Bring Out the Best or the Worst in Us?

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

Posted March 16^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Every once in a while you might find someone else, or perhaps even yourself, observing other humans engaging in ugly or ill-tempered behaviour, then respond by saying; “Look at that. They are behaving like animals.”

And to that, I find myself saying; “How unfair is that? What an insult to animals.”

Now if you think I am being unfair to humans, I ask you to consider reviewing the following two videos. Continue reading →

“These are very difficult decisions, as we understand the impact a postponed procedure will have on everyone from patients to members of our care team.”                                                                      – Derek McNally, Niagara Health’s Executive Vice President, Clinical Services & Chief Nursing Executive

News from Niagara Health, Niagara, Ontario’s amalgamated hospital system

Posted March 16^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Health’s St. Catharines hospital site

Niagara, Ontario – Beginning Tuesday, March 17, we are postponing elective surgeries and non-urgent ambulatory procedures as part of our COVID-19 response. 

The Ontario Government has asked that all hospitals ramp down elective surgeries and other nonemergent clinical activity to protect patient safety and increase capacity for healthcare workers to respond to COVID-19. 

We are taking a carefully planned approach to accomplish this goal responsibly and with the best interests of our patients’ and team’s health and well-being in mind.  Continue reading →

Latest Niagara case involves “a 47-year-old male with a travel history to Europe.”

More News on the Coronavirus Outbreak from Niagara’s Regional Government

Posted March 16^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – Niagara Region Public Health and Emergency Services is investigating a confirmed case of Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) in a 47-year-old male with a travel history to Europe.

This is Niagara region’s third case of COVID-19.

The patient is recovering at home in self-isolation. The patient has interacted only with his immediate family during the time he may have been contagious, and  has not exposed anyone in the community. All protocols were followed by health care providers resulting in no exposure of themselves nor other patients. Continue reading →

Dr. Mustafa Hirji, Niagara Region’s Medical Officer of Health (acting)

“As we continue to see growing COVID-19 cases around the world, we expect to continue to see travel-related cases in Niagara.”                                      -Dr. Mustafa Hirji, Niagara Region’s acting Medical Officer of Health

More News on the Coronavirus Outbreak from Niagara, Ontario’s Regional Government

Posted March 15th, 2020 on Niaggara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – Niagara Region Public Health and Emergency Services is investigating a confirmed case of Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) in a 55-year-old female with a travel history to Egypt. This is Niagara region’s second case of COVID-19.

The patient is recovering at home in self-isolation. The patient has interacted only with a family member during the time she may have been contagious, and has not exposed anyone in the community. All protocols were followed by health care providers resulting in no exposure of themselves nor other patients.

“As we continue to see growing COVID-19 cases around the world, we expect to continue to see travel-related cases in Niagara,” said Dr. Mustafa Hirji, medical officer of health (acting), Niagara Region Public Health and Emergency Services.

“However, we are not seeing any local circulation of the virus, and so our risk remains low. Everyone should feel comfortable continuing with their daily activities.”

Continue reading →

Both Post-Secondary Schools Now Working on Alternative Forms of Class and Exam Delivery for Students

Statements from Brock University and Niagara College in Niagara, Ontario

Posted March 13th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

First, a Statement from Brock University –

Brock suspending face-to-face classes and moving toward alternative forms of delivery

Brock University in St. Catharines/Niagara

Niagara, Ontario – Brock University is suspending face-to-face classes and exams for the rest of this academic term and is working on a plan to move to alternative forms of class and exam delivery, including online. The academic term is not at risk.

In-person classes will be suspended at the end of classes Friday, March 13.

Faculty members will be asked for alternatives for course delivery, and the goal will be to resume virtual classes the week of Monday, March 23 for those instructors who are able to mount their classes in a virtual environment.

The University will encourage faculty members to consider re-distributing the assessment for a course based on the material and work already completed. Continue reading →

Dr. Karim Ali, director, Division of Infectious Diseases, and Emergency

Investigation into the source for this person’s infection is currently underway. The person does not have any recent travel history

“The patient is currently in an isolation room undergoing treatment by our  infectious diseases team to manage his symptoms and is in stable condition.”                                                          – Dr. Karim Ali, director, Division of Infectious Diseases, and Emergency

News from Niagara’s Regional Government in Niagara, Ontario

Posted March 13,2020 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Ontario – Niagara Region Public Health and Emergency Services is investigating a confirmed case of Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) in an 84-year-old male. This is  Niagara region’s first case of COVID-19.

The patient was transferred to the hospital by EMS for another medical problem on March 10 and subsequently tested positive for COVID-19 on March 12.

Health care providers and paramedics who interacted with the patient prior to developing symptoms will self-isolate out of an abundance of caution.

“The patient is currently in an isolation room undergoing treatment by our  infectious diseases team to manage his symptoms and is in stable condition,” said Dr. Karim Ali, director, Division of Infectious Diseases, and Emergency Preparedness Lead. “We will continue to take every possible step to ensure the safety of our staff, physicians, patients and families.” Continue reading →

Closings Effective at 4:30 p.m. today (March 13, 2020), until April 5

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

Posted March 13^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

St. Catharines’s downtown Central Libary among many city venues closing due to coronavirus outbreak

Niagara, Ontario – While Niagara Region Public Health has reported the risks surrounding COVID-19 remain low to residents, the City is exercising an abundance of caution, moving forward with closures of all recreational and community facilities to limit spread of the virus.

On Thursday afternoon the City partially activated its Emergency Operations Centre in response to the spread of the virus, moving forward on the best measures to protect the health of the public and staff. As of right now it appears the virus is not circulating locally in the community.  Continue reading →

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

Posted March 13^th, 2020 in Niagara At Large

This March 12^th, as part of continued close monitoring of the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak, the City of St. Catharines partially activated its Emergency Operations Centre (EOC), and continues to be activated this morning.

While Niagara Region Public Health continues to advise that the risk of contracting the virus is still low, the City is focused on efforts to protect staff, their families, and the public from potential exposure to COVID-19. Continue reading →

Niagara Centre  MPP Jeff Burch

“Health workers are working around the clock to contain COVID-19, and (the Ford government’s current, ongoing  review of the province’s health services) amid a global outbreak creates unnecessary confusion in trying times.”                                              – Niagara Centre NDP MPP Jeff Burch

A Statement from Niagara Centre NDP MPP Jeff Burch

Posted March 12, 2020 on Niagara At Large

LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF ONTARIO, Thursday, March 12, 2020

Niagara Centre MPP Jeff Burch – “People in my community of Niagara are concerned about COVID-19, also known as Corona Virus.

“Niagara Region Public health has been working with the province and the federal government on identifying travellers who might be carrying COVID-19. Locally they have developed multiple scenarios for what may happen and plans for those scenarios are continually being revisited as we learn more from other countries.

“I would join the Association of Local Public Health agencies in imploring this government to put their modernization review of public health and emergency health services on the back-turner. Continue reading →

Partnership will help Niagara Parks sustainably grow its extensive trail network while respecting shared commitment to the environment

Provost and Vice-President, Brock University, and Sandie Bellows, Niagara Parks Chair, sign the additional collaboration agreement between Brock and Niagara Parks. Garrett Hutson, Associate Professor of Recreation and Leisure Studies, Brock University (left) and David Adames, Niagara Parks CEO (right), look on.

News from Brock University and Ontario’s Niagara Parks Commission

Posted March 12th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – A partnership built on the mutual goal of environmental stewardship is taking another step forward.

Two years after signing an initial Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), the Niagara Parks Commission and Brock University signed an additional collaboration agreement on Thursday, March 12 at Niagara Parks’ public Commission Meeting that will help the Parks assess and sustainably grow its extensive trail network.

To be known as the Trails Assets and Tourism Initiative, the new partnership involves Brock and Niagara Parks, along with the Ontario Trails Council. Continue reading →

“Our message to Canadians is clear: to every worker and business, in every province and territory, we have your back and we will get through this together.” – The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

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

Posted March 11, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Ottawa, Ontario – COVID-19 is a rapidly evolving global challenge. The Government of Canada is working closely with local, provincial, territorial, and international partners to minimize its health, economic, and social impacts in Canada and around the world.

We have worked closely with Canada’s trained public health and medical professionals to put in place the plans, infrastructure, and resources needed to protect the health and safety of all Canadians.

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today outlined Canada’s whole-of-government response to COVID-19, by establishing a more than $1 billion COVID-19 Response Fund. This comprehensive approach includes measures already underway to respond to the outbreak, as well as new investments to limit the spread of the virus in Canada and prepare for its possible broader impacts on our people, our economy, and our small businesses. Continue reading →

“Canada is a significant contributor to the world’s plastic pollution problem. Every year, 4.5 million tonnes of plastic are introduced to the Canadian market. Only nine per cent of it is recycled.”                                                                                                        – from a new, must-read  Environmental Defence report, ‘No Time to Waste; Six Ways Canada Can Proress to Zero Plastic by 2025

New report provides the first comprehensive roadmap for solving the problem of plastic pollution in Canada

A News Release from the Canada-wide activist group Environmental Defence

Posted March 11^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Toronto, Ont. — A new report provides the first overarching blueprint forCanada’s federal, provincial, and municipal governments on how they can reduce plastic pollution.

The report, No Time to Waste: Six Ways Canada Can Progress to Zero Plastic Waste by 2025 , released today by Environmental Defence, outlines six immediate steps that governments can take to drastically decrease waste caused by single-use plastics.

“Single-use plastics continue to be a massive contributor to the world’s plastic pollution crisis,” said Vito Buonsante, Plastics Program Manager with Environmental Defence. “Canada can be a world leader in turning the tide on this problem, but it’s not simply a matter of better recycling or banning certain plastic items. We need a comprehensive reduction strategy to make plastic waste a thing of the past.” Continue reading →

New York State’s Ban on Single-Use Plastic Bags       Now in Effect

As of this past March 1^st, 2020, single-use plastic bags are gone at retail stores

News from the Sierra Club, one of the oldest and most respected environmental groups in the world

Posted March 11^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

(A Brief Foreword Note from Niagara At Large reporter and publisher Doug Draper – While Ontario and other provinces across Canada continue to fiddle while plastic waste continues to pile, right across the border in New York State, single-use plastic bags are banned, beginning this past March 1^st.

Plastic bags don’t belong here

Going back to my years as a full-time environment reporter at newspapers in the 1980s and 90s, I can remember when governments in Canada were leaders in taking measures like this. But that hasn’t been the case for much of the past 20 or so years.

Now here is some news from the Sierra Club about the New York State ban on single-use plastic bags.)

Starting  Sunday, March 1^st, shoppers in New York State said goodbye to single-use thin film plastic bags at the checkout lines.

Continue reading →

The Constituency Youth Council Invites All                Young Canadians to Apply

From the Constituencey Office of Niagara Centre MP Vance Badawey

Posted March 11^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – Niagara Centre. Vance Badawey, Member of Parliament for the riding of Niagara Centre, invites all young Canadians from the ages of 15-26 to apply to his 2019-2020 Constituency Youth Council.  

What? The Constituency Youth Council is an opportunity for youth to learn about Canada’s political process, discuss their viewpoints on issues, and most importantly, get involved in their communities. Projects undertaken by past Constituency Youth Councils have ranged from food drives to multimedia projects. Continue reading →

United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres

“We will not fight climate change with a virus,” said United Nations chief António Guterres, underlining the importance of not allowing the fight against the coronavirus distract us from the need to defeat climate change.

While the disease is expected to be temporary, climate change, added the Secretary-General, has been a phenomenon for many years, and and will “remain with us for decades and require constant action.”

News of Concern about our Climate from the United Nations

Posted March 10^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

A wide-ranging UN climate report, released on Tuesday March 10th), shows that climate change is having a major effect on all aspects of the environment, as well as on the health and wellbeing of the global population.

The report, The WMO Statement on the State of the Global Climate in 2019, which is led by the UN weather agency (World Meteorological Organization), contains data from an extensive network of partners.

It documents physical signs of climate change – such as increasing land and ocean heat, accelerating sea level rise and melting ice – and the knock-on effects on socio-economic development, human health, migration and displacement, food security, and land and marine ecosystems. Continue reading →

A Statement from Ontario’s NDP Official Opposition Party Leader Andrea Horwath

Posted March 10th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Ontario NDP and Official Opposition Leader Andrea Horwath

QUEEN’S PARK – NDP Official Opposition Leader Andrea Horwath has issued the following statement on the urgent need for an Ontario-wide COVID-19 emergency response plan:

“Ontario’s public health units and frontline medical teams are doing an exceptional job containing the COVID-19 virus, and I’m grateful for their tireless work. I am hopeful this outbreak is not going to get worse, and patients with the virus today will make swift recoveries. Continue reading →

A Commentary from Linda McKellar, a Fort Erie, Ontario resident and regular reader of Niagara At Large

Posted March 9^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

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

Linda McKellar’s comment is a reply to a commentary I wrote and posted on Niagara At Large this March 8^th on International Women’s Day.

My commentary, which I admit was laced with anger, was sparked by watching live coverage this past March 5^th of Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren announcing her decision end her campaign for the U.S. presidency.

After making her announcement, Warren, who was the last the last serious female candidate running in the 2020 presidential race, was almost moved to tears when she was asked what message her departure from the race sent to other women in the U.S., and she responded by saying; “One of the hardest parts of this is all those little girls (she met on the campaign trail) who are going to have to wait four more years.” Continue reading →

Strategy Outlines Next Steps to Reduce Flooding Risk and Increase Preparedness

For two of the past three years, the Lakeside Park and harbour area along the Lake Ontario shores of Port Dalhousie in Niagara, Ontario  have been swamped like this, causing costly damage and loss of use of the area for the spring and early summer.    file photo by Doug Draper

News from Ontario’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry

Posted March 9, 2020 on Niagara At Large

City of St. Catharines built walls of sandbags in spring of 2019 to hold back rising lake water at Lakeside Beach. File photo by Doug Draper

The Ontario government is taking action to protect people and communities from the effects of flooding by reducing flood risk and helping Ontarians to be better prepared for flooding events.

“We know that we can’t prevent flooding in Ontario – we can only become more resilient to it,” said John Yakabuski, Minister of Natural Resources and Forestry. “Our strategy is designed to increase public awareness and help us to be better prepared and equipped to respond to the devasting effects of flooding.” Continue reading →

Dedicated Website Will Now Include Twice Daily Updates on New Cases

News from Ontario’s Ministry of Health

Posted March 9^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

TORONTO —As COVID-19 evolves, Ontario is taking further steps to inform the public on the status of the virus across the province.

Ontario has been monitoring and reporting on the development of COVID-19 since initial cases of a viral pneumonia were reported in China in late December 2019. Every weekday at 10:30 a.m.

Ontario has been updating its dedicated web page with the most up-to-date information on the status of cases in Ontario, including: the number of cases currently under investigation; and the number of confirmed positive, negative and resolved cases. Continue reading →

Ford Plans To Discontinue Popular ‘Discounted Double Fare Program’ used by Commuters Riding to and from Niagara and Toronto

“We should be making it easier for commuters in the 905 to leave their cars at home, not making it harder to take transit by piling on new expenses.” – Ontario NDP Transit critic Jessica Bell

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

Posted March 9th, 2020 on Niagara At Large 

QUEEN’S PARK, Ontario — Today (this March 9th), NDP Official Opposition Leader Andrea Horwath will debate a motion to make transit more affordable for Ontarians who commute between the 905 and Toronto for work.

Horwath’s motion calls on the Doug Ford government to reverse its cancelation of the Discounted Double Fare Program, and restore the 50 per cent operating subsidy for municipal transit agencies to help make transit fares more affordable.

Next month, the Ford government is planning to scrap the Discounted Double Fare Program, which would stick commuters who use both GO transit and the TTC with an extra $720 in costs every year. Continue reading →

Come Meet ‘Evolve Our Prison Farm’ co-founder Calvin Neufeld on Saturday, March 14^th at 7 p.m. at 7 Gale Crescent in                St. Catharines, Ontario 

An Invite to All from the Niagara, Ontario-based citizen advocacy group Niagara Action for Animals

Posted March 9^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Dear Friends of Animals,

Please mark your calendars now for Saturday March 14th – 7 p.m. and we will be hosting speaker Calvin Neufeld from Evolve Our Prison Farms (EOPF).

The talk  will take place at 7 Gale Crescent (opposite the Rex Stimers Arena). We warmly  invite you to attend. Question time and light refreshments will follow the talk.

EOPF was founded in 2016 by Calvin Neufeld and his mother Franceen Neufeld. EOPF  is a grassroots social justice campaign advocating an ethical and  environmentally responsible approach to Canada’s restored prison farm program, and opposing any exploitation of prisoners and animals. Continue reading →

“You could see there was blood coming out of her eyes, blood coming out of her wherever.” – what then U.S. presidential candidate Donald Trump said about then Fox News Channel anchor Megyn Kelly after she asked him about a number of highly insulting comments he has made about other women

“Nobody respects women more than I do. Nobody!”        – Donald Trump

A Commentary by Niagara At Large reporter and publisher           Doug Draper

Elizabeth Warren, announcing her decision this March 5th to end her run for the U.S. presidency

Posted March 8th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

“One of the hardest parts of this is all those little girls who are going to have to wait four more years.” – U.S. Senator for Massachusetts Elizabeth Warren, on March 5th, the day she ended her candidacy for whatever now passes as the U.S. presidency, on all of the “little girls” she met on the campaign trail who hoped she might be their country’s first woman President.

Then Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump follows then Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton around debate stage in 2016, invading her space like a creepy stalker

“I moved on her like a bitch. … “I don’t even wait. And when you’re a star, they let you do it. You can do anything. … Grab them by the p—y. You can do anything.”  – Donald Trump, from the infamous 2005 Access Hollywood tape of him bragging about what he can do to women, released weeks before the 2016 presidential election where millions of Americans went out and elected him President of the United States.

This Sunday, March 8, 2020 is or was, depending on when you read this post, International Women’s Day – a day placed on the calendar more than 40 years ago by the United Nations to celebrate women and to raise public awareness about the ongoing struggle to end gender abuse and discrimination.

As the sun rose on this International Women’s Day, one of the first things that came to mind for me was the was the well-attended and very highly moving of women’s struggles and achievements that the Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce hosted in Niagara Falls, New York a few days earlier, on Friday, March 6^th. Continue reading →

“I encourage all Canadians to celebrate women’s achievements, and to keep pushing for progress so we can all reach our full potential.” – Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau

Statement by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau

Posted  March 8th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on International Women’s Day:

Ottawa, Canada – “Today (this March 8th), on International Women’s Day, we celebrate the accomplishments and leadership of women in Canada and around the world, and recommit ourselves to moving forward to a future in which everyone has an equal chance to succeed.

“We all have women in our lives who inspire us every day. This year’s theme, Because Of You, honours those who have paved the way. In particular, we celebrate Canadian women leaders who challenge norms, lift up other women and girls, and change our country for the better.   Continue reading →

15-Year-Old Global  Water Champion  Delivers Keynote Address to more than 700 at Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce International Women’s Day Event

A News Commentary by Doug Draper

Posted March 7th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

15-year-old water activist Autumn Peltier, a global Children’s Peace Prize nominee three years in a row,  was keynote speaker at International Women’s Day event in Niagara Falls, Ontario

If women are looking for up and coming leaders that can inspire, there sure was one in Niagara for this March 6th’s International Women’s Day.

She is a 15-year-old Indigenous water activist and chief water commissioner of the Anishinabek Nation in Canada and the Great Lakes region, and her name is Autumn Peltier.

Within the past year, she has addressed the United Nations General Assembly and United Nations Climate Summit, and this past January, she participated on a panel with the 17-year-old, world-renown Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg at the World Economic Summit in Davos-Klosters, Switzerland.

And then here she was this March 6th, in front of an audience of more than 700 mostly women in Niagara Falls, Ontario, at an International Women’s Day event hosted the Greater Niagara Chamber of Commerce. Continue reading →

“While the NDP welcomes news of more resources to fight human trafficking, a lot of questions remain about whether Ontario’s 42 rape crisis centres will get additional funding this year to provide services to survivors of rape and sexual assault.”                               – Ontario NDP MPPs Jill Andrew and Suze Morrison

A Brief Statement from the Ontario New Democratic Party,s Women’s Issue Critic Jill Andrew and NDP MPP Suze Morrison

Posted March 6^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Queen’s Park – Jill Andrew, Ontario NDP Women’s Issues critic, and Suze Morrison, Ontario NDP critic for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Response, released the following statement in response to the government’s announcement regarding human trafficking:

“While the NDP welcomes news of more resources to fight human trafficking, a lot of questions remain about whether Ontario’s 42 rape crisis centres will get additional funding this year to provide services to survivors of rape and sexual assault. We should be giving rape crisis centres the $14 million dollars the Liberals waited 15 years to promise, and then failed to deliver. Continue reading →

$307 million invested to protect children and youth, crack down on offenders

News from the Office of Ontario Premier Doug Ford

Posted March 6^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

St. Catharines, Ontario — The Government of Ontario is taking strong action to protect children and youth, support survivors, raise awareness and hold offenders accountable by releasing Ontario’s new anti-human trafficking strategy today.

Premier Doug Ford, Jill Dunlop, Associate Minister of Children and Women’s Issues, and Solicitor General Sylvia Jones released today a new, comprehensive five-year strategy to combat human trafficking and end child sexual exploitation across the province.

The new strategy is the largest total investment in dedicated anti-human trafficking supports and services in the country and is a major step forward in Ontario’s fight against human trafficking.  Continue reading →

From Niagara Region’s Public Health and Emergency Services

Posted March 6th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – Niagara Region Public Health and Emergency Services is closely monitoring an outbreak caused by a novel (new) coronavirus first identified in Hubei Province, China (including Wuhan).

We’re also collaborating with local hospitals, primary care, emergency services, the Ministry of Health, Public Health Ontario, and other provincial and federal partners to protect Niagara residents. Continue reading →

‘The Ontario Fire Code requires working smoke alarms on every storey of a home and outside all sleeping areas.’

An Important Message to All from the City of St. Catharines Fire Services in Niagara, Ontario

Posted March 6, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario — With clocks rolling forward one hour at 3 a.m. on Sunday, March 8, residents may lose an hour’s sleep, but they don’t need to lose peace of mind when it comes to home fire safety.

St. Catharines Fire Services are reminding residents that with the changing of the clocks they should be taking time to test the smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) alarms in their homes. Continue reading →

Niagara Centre NDP MPP Jeff Burch

“Instead of providing the necessary funding to fix Ontario’s emergency services, the Ford government is busy looking for ways (of) plowing ahead with cutting and merging Ontario’s emergency services.”                                                                                  – Niagara Centre NDP MPP Jeff Burch

A News Release from Niagara Centre NDP MPP Jeff  Burch and Ottawa-Centre NDP MPP Joel Harden

Posted March 5^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

QUEEN’S PARK — NDP MPPs Jeff Burch (Niagara Centre), the Official Opposition’s Municipal Affairs critic, and Joel Harden (Ottawa Centre) warned Doug Ford (this March 4rth) that he risks putting lives in danger with his government’s cuts to critical emergency services.

Apparently members of Ontario’s Ford government and their supporters don’t need services like this given their continued record of cutting funding or under-funding them.

A new report published today by CUPE Ontario reveals that pressure on frontline paramedics is reaching a breaking point with more ‘code zero’ events where Ontarians call 911 in need of urgent medical care only to be left waiting with no ambulances available to help. Continue reading →

A New Release  from Niagara Health, Niagara, Ontario’s amalgamated hospital system

Posted March 5^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Niagara, Ontario – A new program at Niagara Health is enhancing care and access to services for palliative patients and their families. Niagara Health’s Palliative Care Consultation Service, which launched on March 2, provides patient care services, including managing symptoms, organizing home or hospice care, and social and emotional support.

Niagara Health Palliative Care Consultation Service team, from left to right: General Internists Dr. Lorraine Jensen, Dr. Manon Tougas and Dr. Andre Maddison (Project Lead) and Nurse Practitioner Andrea Lehal. Photo courtesy of Niagara Health

The team consists of a group of physicians and nurse practitioners who offer in-person and phone consultations on a referral basis. The team works across Niagara Health’s Greater Niagara General, Welland and St. Catharines sites and is dedicated to meeting the needs of patients and their families. Continue reading →

From the Office of Ontario Education Minister Stephen Lecce

Posted March 5th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Stephen Lecce (PC Candidate, King-Vaughan) addresses media at the Hilton Toronto hotel in downtownToronto, Ont. on Sunday May 27, 2018. Ernest Doroszuk/Toronto Sun/Postmedia

TORONTO — Today (this March 5th), Stephen Lecce, Minister of Education, issued the following  statement in response to continued strike action by OSSTF, OECTA, and AEFO:

“I have offered all teachers’ union federations a fair and reasonable plan, which should pave the way to reaching a good deal that keeps students in class.

The government has consistently made reasonable moves – effectively freezing class room sizes, a parental opt out for online learning, a commitment to  full-day kindergarten, and one hundred per cent investment in special education.

The time for a deal is now, I urge the unions to stop this disruptive escalation  and return to the table to get a deal that is fair for parents, students, and  educators.” Continue reading →

“We need to fund scientific research that can quickly diagnose and provide therapies to prevent and treat the virus. … And we need to all look after each other.” U.S. Congressman Brian Higgins, a Democrat representing the Buffalo, New York area

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

Posted March 5^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

(A Brief Foreword Note from Niagara At Large – With a virus that has been spreading around the globe like this, it certainly matters what our neighbours are doing about it right across such a heavily trafficked  border. In that spirit, we  post this news.)

Buffalo, New York – Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) announced House passage of H.R. 6074, the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2020.

The bill provides $8.3 billion for a robust response to COVID-19, the “Coronavirus,” including vaccine development, support for state and local governments, and assistance for affected small business.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is a respiratory illness that was first identified as a result of an outbreak in Wuhan, China in December 2019. Symptoms of COVID-19 are similar to those of other respiratory illnesses, and include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Continue reading →

Ontario Official Opposition and NDP Leader Andrea Horwath

“The chaotic rollout of these new plates will certainly have costs associated. However, the Government has not revealed the costs.” – from Ontario NDP Leader Andrea Horwath’s March 4^th, 2020 letter to the province’s Auditor General, Bonnie Lysyk

News from the Office of Ontario’s Official Opposition and NDP Leader Andrea Horwath

Posted March 4^th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

The license plate Ontario vehicle owners have had for decades, on top, and the new one below. They also just happen to feature the Ford government’s Tory Party colours.

QUEEN’S PARK – Ontario Official Opposition and NDP Leader Andrea Horwath has formally requested Ontario’s Auditor General review all costs associated with the production and replacement of the Ford government’s defective license plates, and review the non-disclosure agreement signed between the Ford government and manufacturer 3M.

Replacing the new, faulty license plates with even newer ones will, as Horwath notes in her letter, “certainly have costs associated,” including those related to materials, shipping and redesign –  but Doug Ford and his government are attempting to hide those costs with the non-disclosure agreement. Continue reading →

“It’s time to face facts. Based on its weak Environment Plan, the lack of action to reduce carbon pollution, and its commitment to fight well established climate solutions like carbon pricing, it seems the province (of Ontario) has no intention to fight climate change.”

A Commentary by Keith Brooks, Programs Director, Environmental Defence Canada

Posted March 4th, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Ontario’s Environment Minister Jeff Yurek, with Premier Doug Ford to the right, waging a post-truth war on climate change

Since gaining office a year and a half ago, the Ontario government has taken a post-truth approach to climate change: they say what they want you to believe, rather than what experts agree to be true.

Specifically, the government claims to have a real plan to fight climate change that proves you can fight it without a price on carbon.

However, experts agree:

• the plan is not based on sound evidence.
• the plan will not meet Ontario’s weak targets to reduce carbon pollution;
• the plan actually does contain an element of carbon pricing (for large polluters).

But so far, none of that seems to matter to the provincial government. They carry on with the post-truth politics on climate change. Continue reading →

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau

“We are supporting businesses that are making investments today to help protect our environment for future generations.”     – Prime Minister Justin Trudeau

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

Posted March 3rd, 2020 on Niagara At Large

Just as Canada’s Trudeau government did a year ago, when it moved to make up for the funding Ontario’s Ford Government cut from a province-wide program for planting millions of trees, it is now offering more in the way of financial rebates or incentives to encourage businesses to purchase zero-emission vehicles and other technologies.

One of the many environmental protecting-gutting moves that the Ontario government of Doug Ford made to please its corporate masters in the carbon fuel industry after coming to power two years ago was to quite literally pull the plug on rebates the previous government had put in to stimulate the sale of electric trucks and cars.

For Ontario’s Premier Doug Ford, it has been all about selling more carbon-based fuels, cheaper.

After the rebate was cancelled, sales of electric vehicles in Ontario plunged by more than 50 per cent, which appears to have had little impact on the thinking of a Ford government that is spinning its wheels  in the middle half of the last century when it comes to transportation and to carbon-based  fuels that are contributing to an escalating climate crisis. Continue reading →

“People in Niagara are dying. We lose one Niagara resident to suicide every seven days.” Niagara Falls MPP Wayne Gates

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

Posted March 3^rd, 2020 in Niagara At Large

Niagara Falls NDP MPP Wayne Gates

Niagara Falls, Ontario  — NDP MPP Wayne Gates (Niagara Falls) has responded to the Ministry of Health’s mental health and addictions strategy that fails to include any new funding for the crisis facing Niagara.

“People in Niagara are dying. We lose one Niagaran to suicide every seven days. Over 70 percent of calls to first responders in the region are related to a mental health crisis,” says Gates.

Preventative care and supports to family members helping their loved ones are already inadequate. Even worse, after 9 o’clock at night, there’s almost nowhere for people to go who are in crisis, except our already overstretched hospital. Continue reading →

“The way to stop the spread of the coronavirus is to make sure anyone who might have been exposed can stay home, to avoid spreading it. There are serious concerns about Ontarians who can’t afford to take a day off work if they’re showing symptoms.”                                        – Ontario NDP Leader Andrea Horwath

News from Ontario’s Official Opposition New Democratic Party

Posted March 3^rd, 2020 on Niagara At large

Ontario NDP and Official Opposition Leader Andrea Horwath

Queen’s Park, Ontario  – NDP Official Opposition Leader Andrea Horwath is calling on Doug Ford to help prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus, or COVID-19, by immediately introducing and passing an emergency bill to ensure employees can stay home from work when they’re sick.

Horwath is asking the provincial government to take two specific measures: prevent employers from requiring people to go to a doctor’s office to get a sick note, and make sure employees have access to paid sick days in order to avoid spreading any illness or virus they’ve contracted, and to self-quarantine if they have any symptoms. Continue reading →

News from the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority

Posted March 3rd, 2020 on Niagara At Large

A red-tailed hawk soaring above the Beamer Memorial Conservation Area and Niagara Escarpment in Niagara, Ontario. File photo courtesy of NPCA

Niagara, Ontario – Monitoring of the 2020 spring hawk migration will once again take place from March 1 to May 15, as members of the Niagara Peninsula Hawkwatch (NPH) will be on site counting the number of sightings daily.

“Beamer Memorial Conservation Area is known as the best vantage point in the Niagara Peninsula, with sightings of more than 15,000 hawks, eagles, falcons and vultures on average each spring,” says Kim Frohlich, Ecologist at the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority.

“At this site, members of the public can see a variety of birds of prey, as they migrate from South and Central America, the Caribbean and the United States to their nesting territories in Canada.” Continue reading →