Category Archives: Uncategorized

A Full Text of Premier Doug Ford’s Speech at the 2026 Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) Annual Conference, August 17^th , 2026

Posted  August 17^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

(A Brief Foreword Note by Doug Draper at Niagara At Large – Those of you who are regular visitors to Niagara At Large would know by now that this reporter/commentator has many significant concerns with the policies and with the decisions made by Premier Ford. Nevertheless, I am posting his full speech to our municipal leaders for the record and for those of you who may wish to read it for information purposes.)

Ontario Premier Doug Ford

OTTAWA — Premier Ford delivered the following remarks at the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) 2026 annual general meeting and conference.

“Good morning, everyone.

It’s great to be back here in Ottawa with all of you for the 2026 AMO Conference. Continue reading →

An Invite To All from the Niagara Falls Nature Club

Posted August 17th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

WEDNESDAY WEEKLY WALKS SEASON IS BACK!

WE INVITE YOU TO JOIN US FOR OUR NEXT OUTING!

The Niagara Falls Nature Club welcomes you to participate in leisurely walks as we enjoy the flora and fauna of Niagara. The walks are rated from 1 to 10: 1 is easy and 10 is strenuous. For more information or if you have any questions, please get in touch! 

DATE: Wednesday Aug 19th 2026
TIME: 7:00PM
LOCATION: Malcolmson Eco-Park
DIFFICULTY RATING:  2/10

DESCRIPTION: We will observe the native plant restoration that is attracting many birds and mammals.

LOCATION: 325 Lakeshore Rd, St Catharines. Free parking!

RSVP to niagarafallsnatureclub@gmail.com to register.

WE LOOK FORWARD TO WANDERING WITH YOU!  Continue reading →

In the upcoming Fall municipal elections, it is imperative that we elected candidates in Niagara who promise to do everything they can to protect our environment and to take action at the community level to address climate change.

• Posted by Doug Draper on Niagara At Large, August 15^th, 2026

NIAGARA AT LARGE Encourages You To Join The Conversation By Sharing Your Views On This Post In The Space  Below and by sharing the Niagara At Large site at www.niagaraatlarge.com with all of your friends and associates.

Visit us every day on www.niagaraat.arge.com and on Doug Draper’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/doug.draper.180 and encourage everyone else you know to do the same. Let’s build media outlets for local news and commentary!

Whale Sanctuary Project is calling on Shedd Aquarium and Georgia Aquarium (in U.S.) to committing publicly that the Marineland belugas transferred into their care will not be bred

“Marineland’s collapse should be a turning point for captive belugas, not an opportunity to continue the cycle of forcing them to live in barren tanks while growing its inhumane breeding program,”                               – Dr. Lori Marino, President and Founder of the Whale Sanctuary Project, Nova Scotia Canada

A Call-Out from The Whale Sanctuary Project, a not-for-profit marine mamal protection group based in Nova Scotia, Canada

Posted August 14^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Another beluga whale from Marineland’s defunct amusement park in Niagara Falls, Ontario moving out

Four whales bound for Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium and two for Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta as third airlift in three weeks moves animals from one concrete tank to another

 The Whale Sanctuary Project (in Nova Scotia, Canada) is raising concerns over the breeding programs of both Shedd Aquarium and Georgia Aquarium as six more beluga whales were removed from Marineland (in Niagara Falls, Ontario) and transported this week.

Transferring beluga whales from one impoverished environment to another, only to be bred, should not be celebrated as the humane end to this crisis.

“Marineland’s collapse should be a turning point for captive belugas, not an opportunity to continue the cycle of forcing them to live in barren tanks while growing its inhumane breeding program,” said Dr. Lori Marino, President and Founder of the Whale Sanctuary Project. Continue reading →

People should not have to wait indefinitely for a dangerous site to be cleaned up. “No neighbourhood should have to live beside this kind of hazard. No one should die because we failed to act.”           – Gwen Kennedy, Director, Coalition for a Better Catharines

A News Release from The Coalition for a Better Catharines, a city-based citizens group

Posted August 14^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

ST. CATHARINES, Ontario — A Niagara Transit Superbus will travel through St. Catharines for the next eight weeks with a message to City Hall, the former GM property owner and the public:

“Clean up the former GM site: No more delays!”

The Coalition for a Better St. Catharines is sponsoring the campaign to demand action at the 55-acre former General Motors property on Ontario Street. Continue reading →

Posted by Doug Draper, reporter/publisher Niagara At Large

August 13^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Greta Thunberg as she looks now at age 23. A voice for her generation on the climate crisis.

“Today we use 100 million barrels of oil every single day. There are no politics to change that. There are no rules to keep that oil in the ground. We can’t save the world by playing by the rules. The rules have to be changed.” ~ 23-year-old, Swedish-born  Greta Thunberg, recognized around the world for her climate activism

To read one of many stories about Donald Trump attacking Greta Thunberg, click on – Donald Trump attacks Greta Thunberg as ‘a troublemaker’ with ‘an anger management problem’ – as she fires back online | LBC

Greta makes the cover of Time Magazine in 2019 as “Person Of The Year.”

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 and by sharing the Niagara At Large site at www.niagaraatlarge.com with all of your friends and associates.

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

“Let me be very clear: this homelessness crisis did not appear out of nowhere. It is the direct result of policy choices made by the Doug Ford government.”                                                                          – St. Catharines Regional Councillor Haley Bateman

A News Commentary by St. Catharines Regional Councillor Haley Bateman

Posted August 13^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

St. Catharines Regional Councillor Haley Bateman

ST. CATHARINES, Ontario  – Premier Doug Ford’s government has created the conditions that have driven more Ontarians into housing insecurity and homelessness and now, as municipalities are struggling to respond to the crisis his policies have created, his has made the sweeping decision to take away one of the most basic tools we have to keep people safe: a shelter.

The reported decision to cancel the lease for the shelter in St. Catharines is unconscionable.

Let me be very clear: this homelessness crisis did not appear out of nowhere. It is the direct result of policy choices made by the Doug Ford government.

For years, this government has made decisions that have made it harder for people to remain housed while failing to provide municipalities with the resources necessary to deal with the consequences and impossible for local councils to manage effectively. Continue reading →

“Many residents have been dealing with extraordinarily difficult circumstances over the past  weeks. We are grateful to Team Rubicon Canada, the Province of Ontario, Ontario Corps and the District School Board of Niagara (who provided a local property to be used as a home base) for coming together to support St. Catharines.” – Mat Siscoe, Mayor of St. Catharines

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

Posted August 12^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Ontario Corps partner Team Rubicon Canada has landed in St. Catharines to support recovery efforts following heavy rainfalls causing widespread flooding across the community.

Beginning this past Tuesday, August 11th Team Rubicon Canada deployed volunteers, know as  Grey shirts, to conduct removal of debris, flooring, drywall and other flood damaged items, answering a request for assistance through Ontario Corp to support and assist residents and homeowners through the difficult process of recovery. Continue reading →

‘Residents will get tips for checking trees and learn how to spot early signs of trouble from local experts during a walk and learn workshop.’

An Invite to All Residents from Niagara’s Regional Government

Posted August 12^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Residents gather at the entrance to the Glenridge Naturalization site before the start of the walking tour for the 2025 Tree Check Month event.

August is  Tree Check Month [https://inspection.canada.ca/en/plant-health/invasive-pests-and-plants/tree-check-month] and Niagara Region, in partnership with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, is co-hosting a free tree check event to teach residents how to keep their trees and greenspaces healthy.

A public demonstration will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 18, from 1 to 3 p.m., at the main entrance pavilion at the  Glenridge Quarry Naturalization site [https://www.niagararegion.ca/living/naturalization/default.aspx] (1860 Sir Isaac Brock Way, Thorold). Parking is available on site. Registration is not required. Continue reading →

“While we cannot guarantee assistance or provide specific timelines, every request will be carefully reviewed. Our goal is to connect residents with available support as quickly and efficiently as possible.” – Town of Lincoln in Niagara, Ontario

News from the Town of Lincoln in Niagara, Ontario

Posted August 12^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

The Town of Lincoln is working with partner agencies, including Team Rubicon, deployed by Ontario Corps, and Samaritan’s Purse and Mennonite Disaster Service, to connect residents with flood cleanup and recovery assistance.

Please note that these are the only three agencies the Town of Lincoln is working with to assist removal of damaged materials and cleanup within residents’ homes in Lincoln.

Here’s how the process works:

Continue reading →

New Tools Will Help Police Services, Including Niagara Regional Police, Fight Illegal Drugs, Guns And Cross-Border Crime

News from the Government of Ontario

Posted August 11^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

The Peace Bridge border crossing – one of the busiest between Canada and the United States – between Fort Erie in Niagara, Ontario and Buffalo, New York

As part of its work to protect Ontario and keep communities safe, the government is strengthening border security by investing $32.5 million in new tools, technology and investigative resources that will help police detect, deter and disrupt the smuggling of illegal firearms, drugs and other contraband into Ontario.

“Protecting Ontario starts with strong borders,” said Solicitor General Michael Kerzner. “We’re giving police the tools they need to stop illegal guns, drugs and organized crime before they reach our communities because every illegal firearm or shipment of drugs intercepted at the border is one less threat to Ontario families.” Continue reading →

News from the City of Port Colborne

Posted August 11^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Niagara’s own Bob Saracino

The City of Port Colborne is mourning the passing of former Mayor Bob Saracino, a dedicated community leader and longtime advocate for our city.

Bob devoted decades of his life to serving Port Colborne, including nearly two decades as Mayor. Even after his time in elected office, his passion for the community never faded. He continued to be an active and familiar presence, supporting local organizations, causes and initiatives that mattered deeply to him.

His commitment to Port Colborne and the people who call our city home leaves a lasting legacy. He will be remembered for his dedication, passion and many contributions to our community. Continue reading →

Niagara EMS Marks First Milestone In Its 10-Year Facilities Master Plan

News from Niagara’s Regional Government

Posted August 10th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Region EMS ambulance

Niagara EMS has officially opened its new Prince Charles Station located at 345 Prince Charles Drive in Welland. This marks the first completed milestone in the EMS 10-year Facilities Master Plan and an important step in strengthening emergency medical services across Niagara.

As Niagara’s population continues to grow and age, demand for Niagara EMS services is also changing. The 10-year Facilities Master Plan is a long-term roadmap for Niagara’s future, creating a network of modern EMS facilities and strategically located stations that will better support paramedics, strengthen emergency response and help ensure timely access to emergency care. Continue reading →

Posted by Doug Draper, August 10^th, 2026

What we don’t need right now- another severe rainstorm.

At least some of you may be wondering why there isn’t as much news and commentary on Niagara At Large that a visitor to the site would usually expect to find.

The answer can be summed up in the water that backed up into the basement of my family’s home, not just once but three or four times over the space of the last three weeks and the severe rainstorms that swept over our region.

It has left me, along with so many others, with a hell of a lot of cleanup work to do, not to mention engaging insurance agents and building contractors to help my family cover the cost for repairing the damage. Continue reading →

For Details For Each Impacted Community, Read Below

A News Release from Niagara’s Regional Government

Posted August 6^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Recent widespread flooding has affected properties throughout Niagara. We’re working with local area municipalities on storm response and recovery, including eligible areas and temporarily enhanced waste collection services. New information will be posted as it becomes available.

If your property was affected, you may qualify for enhanced waste collection services. Find your city or town to learn what’s available in your area.

Residents experiencing flooding are encouraged to contact their insurer to begin their claims process. Continue reading →

A News Release from the Kristen French Child Advocacy Centre’s Child Victim Witness Program

Posted August 6^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

The Child Victim & Witness Program helps children navigate court and understand they are not to blame

Niagara Region, ON — One year after the Kristen French Child Advocacy Centre Niagara launched its Child Victim & Witness Program, the Centre is marking the program’s impact while flagging concern in regard to online luring and exploitation cases involving multiple young victims.

The Centre serves children and youth who have experienced physical or sexual abuse, neglect, online luring, or exposure to violence. Working alongside Niagara Regional Police Service and child protection partners (FACS Niagara), the Centre provides a safe,child-friendly setting for investigations and a coordinated path of support. Continue reading →

“This partnership represents an important step toward bringing Indigenous knowledge systems alongside contemporary conservation practices in ways that benefit both people and the environment,”                                                                                              – Phil Davis, Member of the Board of Directors of the Niagara Academy for Indigenous Relations.

A News Release from the Niagara Academy for Indigenous Relation and Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority

Posted August 5^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

NIAGARA, ONTARIO — The Niagara Academy for Indigenous Relations (NAIR) and the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) are pleased to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that establishes long-term relations to strengthen environmental stewardship, conservation, education, and the respectful integration of Indigenous knowledge throughout the Niagara Peninsula watershed.

The agreement recognizes that the health of the land, water, plants, animals, and people is interconnected, reflecting values expressed in the Haudenosaunee Thanksgiving Address (Ohen:ton Karihwatehkwen), which teaches gratitude, reciprocity, and responsibility toward the natural world. These principles closely align with the missions of both organizations and provide a strong foundation for future collaboration. Continue reading →

“To every resident who has lost cherished belongings, been displaced from their home or is facing the emotional and financial strain of rebuilding: we see you, we stand with you and we will not leave you to face this alone.”                                               – Niagara’s Acting Regional Chair and Fort Erie Regional Councillor Tom Insinna

A Statement from Niagara’s Acting Regional Chair on Flooding Across the Region

Posted August 4^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Inaugural Region of Niagara council meeting, Thursday, November 24, 2022. Photo by Denis Cahill

Thorold, Ontario – Niagara’s Acting Regional Chair, Tom Insinna, issued the following statement regarding the devastating flooding across the Region:

“Over the past two weeks, severe storms have flooded homes, damaged businesses, and turned lives upside down across Niagara.

To every resident who has lost cherished belongings, been displaced from their home or is facing the emotional and financial strain of rebuilding: we see you, we stand with you and we will not leave you to face this alone.

Regional and local infrastructure performed as designed, but no municipal system could have absorbed the extraordinary volume of rain that fell in such a short period. Continue reading →

“Many residents are reliving the devastating experience of flooding for the second time in less than a week, and Sunday’s storm extended those impacts to even more neighbourhoods across St. Catharines. This declaration underscores the severity of what our community has experienced and the need for continued support from our partners at all levels of government as we work together through recovery.”                                              – St. Catharines Mayor Mat Siscoe

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

Posted August 3^rd, 2026 on Niagara At Large

St. Catharines Mayor Mat Siscoe has declared a State of Emergency for the City of St. Catharines following significant flooding over the last week that has had widespread effects on homes, property over the last week.

The declaration comes following a pair of intense storms that brought more than 140 mm of rain to areas across the City on July 27-28 and again on August 2.

The historic storms overwhelmed the City’s infrastructure, including roads and sewer / stormwater infrastructure, and has caused flooding that has affected homes, businesses, City facilities, and significant property damage, including shoreline erosion to private and public property. Continue reading →

“Our community has faced an extraordinary challenge. We have witnessed the devastating impacts of flooding on families, businesses, farms, and critical infrastructure. Declaring a State of Emergency ensures we are taking every available step to protect our community, coordinate our response, and advocate for the support Lincoln needs to recover.”                                             – Town of Lincoln Mayor Sandra Easton

A News Release from the Town of Lincoln in Niagara, Ontario

Posted August 3^rd, 2026 on Niagara At Large

The Town of Lincoln has declared a State of Emergency following the historic flooding that has impacted our community over the past 24 hours.

The declaration comes after an extraordinary rainfall event that overwhelmed roads,stormwater infrastructure, homes, businesses, and municipal services. The situation was further exacerbated by widespread power outages, which significantly affected homes, businesses, and municipal infrastructure.

This decision reflects the severity of the situation and strengthens the Town’s ability to coordinate resources, implement emergency measures, and support requests for provincial assistance, while reinforcing the significance of the impacts on our community. Continue reading →

Stay Tuned To CBC Radio One 99.1 FM Or CBC Television For Updates

Posted August 2^nd, 2026 on Niagara At Large

From Environment and Climate Change Canada · Last updated 4 mins ago

At 12:26 p.m. EDT (Sunday, August 2^nd), Environment Canada meteorologists are tracking a severe thunderstorm that is possibly producing a tornado. Damaging winds, large hail and locally intense rainfall are also possible.

This is a very dangerous and potentially life-threatening situation.

Tornado warnings are issued when a thunderstorm is producing or is likely to produce a tornado.

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 and by sharing the Niagara At Large site at www.niagaraatlarge.com with all of your friends and associates.

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

And Enough Of Those Severe Winds And All Of he Havoc They Cause, Please!

A Summer Song Posted with a Commentary by Doug Draper

August 1^st, 2026

Sixty years ago this August, when groups like The Beatles,  Rolling Stones,  Yardbirds and The Lovin’ Spoonful and singers like Donovan, Petula Clark  and Stevie Wonder had big hits on the Billboard charts, a relatively old guy from my parents younger years also broke through with a hit song called ‘Summer Wind’.

A huge Beatles fan back then, I found myself liking this song. There was something about it and the way Frank Sinatra, who by then was a legendary singer with a recording career stretching back through the 1940s and 50s, sang it that made me  feel good and made me imagine walking along a sandy beach on Cape Cod or even one of our own beaches along Lake Erie with a light breeze embracing me on a warm summer day.

Sixty years later, there is still something nice about that song so I thought I would share it with you on this first day of August, 2026. To hear it and watch a video that accompanies it, click on the screen immediately below –

• Hope you have some enjoyable times during the last half of summer  – Doug Draper, Niagara At Large, with memories of my mother and father who remained big Frank Sinatra fans while I was driving them crazy spinning those Beatles records.

NIAGARA AT LARGE Encourages You To Join The Conversation By Sharing Your Views On This Post In The Space  Below and by sharing the Niagara At Large site at www.niagaraatlarge.com with all of your friends and associates.

Visit us every day on www.niagaraat.arge.com and on Doug Draper’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/doug.draper.180 and encourage everyone else you know to do the same. Let’s build media outlets for local news and commentary!

“Today (on this Emancipation Day, 2026”), we honour those whose courage helped make our country freer, fairer, and stronger.” – Prime Minister of Canada, Mark Carney

A Statement by Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney on Emancipation Day 2026

Posted August 1st, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Ottawa, Ontario – “Today (August 1^st, 2026), communities across Canada mark Emancipation Day. On this day in 1834, the /Slavery Abolition Act/ came into effect across the British Empire.

Slavery existed here – in New France, in the Maritimes, in the households of the powerful. While the Act marked a turning point, freedom was not granted in a single day. It was taken, held, and defended – by those who fled, by those who were freed and stayed to build, and by generations who came after.

When slavery ended, segregation endured. Africville was razed. Black Canadians were refused service, denied housing, and separated in schools and churches. Continue reading →

From the City of St. Catharines

Posted July 31^st, 2026 on Niagara At Large

  * The City has established a Vulnerable Assistance Registry <https://    webforms.stcatharines.ca/Fire-Services/Vulnerable-Assistance-Registry-    Application> for eligible residents who require support removing water and waste from their homes. Pleasefill out our form </umbraco/

The City is provicing assistance to eleigable residents who requre support removingwater and waste from their homes or  or call 905.688.5600 for intake support. Continue reading →

An Alert from Niagara Region Public Health

Posted July 31^st, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Niagara Region Public Health is informing residents of the first confirmation of mosquitoes to test positive for West Nile virus in 2026.

West Nile virus is spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito.

Though the risk to most individuals is low, it is important to take steps to protect yourself and your family from mosquito bites: Continue reading →

“Residents have contacted our (St. Catharines constituency) office to report washing machines floating, personal belongings destroyed, and furniture ruined.”                                                           – from a letter by St. Catharines NDP MPP Jennie Stevens to Ontario Minister of Municipal Affairs & Housing Rob Flack

From the Constituency Office of St. Catharines NDP MPP Jennie Stevens

Posted July 31^st, 2026 on Niagara At Large

St. Catharines NDP MPP Jennie Stevens

A Brief Comment by Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper – Good for St. Catharines MPP Jennie Stevens for doing this. I think every MPP in Niagara and every municipal leader across the north end of Niagara, especially in areas of St. Catharines, Niagara-on-the-Lake and Thorold, that were especially hard hit by this near-record flooding rainstorm, should contact the Ford government and do the same.

At the very least, Ontario’s Ford government needs to know that there is a very high cost associated with storms that are becoming ever more frequent and severe due to a lack of action on climate change.

So at long last, let’s make protecting what are left of our green lands and wetlands, and investing in renewable forms of energy rather than building more highways far more of a priority!

A Letter To Rob Flack, Ontario Minister of Municipal Affairs & Housing from St. Catharines MPP Jennie Stevens –

On the evening of Monday, July 27, St. Catharines was struck by a devastating flash flood that affected thousands of homes and businesses across the community.

Flooding and water damage ranged from several inches to waist-deep water in residential basements. Residents have contacted our office to report washing machines floating, personal belongings destroyed, and furniture ruined. Continue reading →

A Call-Out from Animal Justice Canada., a non-profit organization fighting for stronger legal protection for animals

Posted July 29th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

One of many protests held near the front gates of the now-defunct Marineland amusement park in Niagara Falls, Ontario over the years. photo by Doug Draper

Marineland in Niagara Falls, Ontario is shipping its surviving beluga whales and dolphins to aquariums in the US and Spain. Canadian and US officials recently approved the transfers after the now-for-sale park threatened to kill all of its remaining whales.

Instead of working together to retire these long-suffering animals to a seaside sanctuary, Marineland and government officials are simply moving them from one tank to another. Continue reading →

“The City is responding to significant flooding impacts across the St. Catharines following the torrential storm that saw 138.75 mm of rainfall. By declaring a significant weather event, the City is notifying the public that weather conditions may prevent it from meeting its normal maintenance standards.”

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

Posted July 28^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

The City of St. Catharines is declaring a significant weather event following the impacts of substantial rainfall from last night’s overnight storm.

Residents who are dealing with the impacts of flooding following the overnight storm can use public washrooms and showers at the St. Catharines Kiwanis Aquatics Centre. Bottled water is also available for residents who require assistance.

Washrooms are available during regular business hours at other City facilities as well, including Port Weller Community Centre, St. Catharines City Hall, the Seymour-Hannah Sports and Entertainment Centre and the St. Catharines Museum and Welland Canals Centre. Continue reading →

Weather Alert Issued by the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority

Posted July 27, 2026 on Niagara At Large

The Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority (NPCA) is advising the public and local municipalities of the potential for flooding within its jurisdiction in the afternoon of Monday July 27th, 2026. This includes the Niagara Peninsula, the southeastern portion of the City of Hamilton, and the eastern portion of Haldimand County.

There is a risk of severe thunderstorms capable of producing torrential rainfall – between 50 – 75 mm – arriving this evening and into tomorrow morning. Given the instability of storm behaviour during this time of year, there remains some uncertainty as to where the highest rainfall amounts will be. Continue reading →

A Message from St. Catharines Regional Councillor Haley Bateman

Posted July 27th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

St. Catharines Regional Councillor Haley Bateman

Maybe I am easily frustrated, but I’m getting pretty tired of reading about how staff at the Niagara Region need to be sliced and diced.

Now, I’m all for a debate and review of services and the criticism that comes with public office, but the people who are touting “get rid of staff” never make the argument that they are prepared to  do away with the services these staff provide.

Tell me the minimum number of Niagara EMS (Emergency Medical Services) and dispatchers that our region can manage with to serve the 14 million people (including residents and visitors) Niagara is host to? Continue reading →

“This project was a true community build. We did not receive government funding to build these homes. Instead, these homes were built by the generosity of people, community partners and organizations across Niagara.”                                                              – Habitat For Humanity Niagara CEO Mark Carl

A News Release from Habitat For Humanity Niagara

Posted July 27^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

A Brief Foreword Note from Doug Draper at Niagara At Large – With the leadership of the late U.S. President Jimmy Carter and his wife Rosalyn, this is one of the greatest non-for-profit organizations founded and now operating in hundreds of communities across North America, including Niagara, to help put a roof over the heads of struggling families. Let’s do everything we can as individuals and communities to support it.

WELLAND, ONTARIO – Five local families are now homeowners thanks to Habitat for Humanity Niagara’s largest housing project to date.

Thanks to volunteers across Niagara. these folks will now have a home. Photo courtesy of Habitat For Humanity Niagara

At a key ceremony held today, Habitat Niagara officially handed over the keys to five families moving into new townhomes in Welland. The six-unit townhouse development was built on land purchased from the City of Welland, with three more townhouses planned for construction on the property in the coming months. Continue reading →

This is what People Power can do if enough people stand up against  bad government planning

Now how about putting a complete end to Ford’s plan to build a giant ferris wheel ride on Queen Victoria Park lands next to the Horseshoe Falls

A Statement from Tim Gray, Executive Director, Environmental Defence

Posted July 25th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Toronto, Ontario –This weekend, we’re celebrating a monumental victory for Toronto, our waterfront, and the people that love it.

The federal government’s decision to ground the proposal (by Premier Doug Ford’s government) to expand the Toronto Island Airport to accommodate jets is a triumph for community power and democratic participation.

This wasn’t a consultation. It was a referendum. Eighty-seven per cent of people said no jets, and the federal government listened. You can’t buy our waterfront. We just proved it.

Over three months, thousands of lawn signs went up across the city, thousands of letters landed on the desks of Toronto MPs, and 87,000 people responded to the government’s survey with one clear message: No jets on our waterfront. Continue reading →

This Saturday, July 25^th, 2026 In St. Catharines  from 11 A.M Until Noon – See Details On Poster Below

Posted July 24^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

For more on this upcoming rally, click on the following link- https://niagaraatlarge.com/2026/07/22/join-the-next-st-catharines-niagara-edition-of-a-province-wide-rally-against-the-policies-practices-of-doug-ford/

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 and by sharing the Niagara At Large site at www.niagaraatlarge.com with all of your friends and associates.

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

With Courage, Vision, and Action, We Can Thrive!

A Message from the Green Party of Canada

Posted July 24^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

The Green Party has a message for Donald Trump.

We can weather his trade war and attacks on our sovereignty. We can even become stronger for it. We just need vision and the courage to act.

Trump underestimates Canadians. In the wake of new tariffs and ‘51st State’ threats, he said that, without the U.S., there’s “no way” our country can survive.” Continue reading →

Years of rejected retirement solutions and inadequate government planning left captive whales with no truly humane option 

A News Release from the Whale Sanctuary Project in Port Hilford Bay, Nova Scotia 

Posted July 23rd^d, 2026 on Niagara At Large 

As (Niagara Falls, Ontario-based) Marineland Canada’s remaining 30 beluga whales begin their transfer to U.S. marine entertainment parks and aquariums, the Whale Sanctuary Project says the operation marks the latest chapter in the captive cetacean industry’s decades-long practice of moving whales between facilities rather than retiring them.

Rather than signalling a new model for animal welfare, the transfers perpetuate the same system of captivity that created the Marineland crisis in the first place.

“For years, we warned that this day was coming,” said Dr. Lori Marino, President and Founder of Whale Sanctuary Project. Continue reading →

Banning the bags could save the Canadian industry $10 Million a year and prevent harmful plastic waste and pollution

A Report from Environmental Defence Canada and the University of Toronto Trash Team

Posted July 23rd, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Toronto – A study from the University of Toronto Trash Team has found that grocery chains give out approximately 2,000 single-use plastic produce bags per store every day in Toronto.

These bags are virtually impossible to recycle and contribute to avoidable plastic waste and litter while costing one grocery brand more than $300,000 per year. 

“Our research revealed just how normalized single-use produce bags have become, with thousands used every day in grocery stores across Toronto,” said Diego Arreola Fernández, 2024 Pollution Prevention Project Fellow, U of T Trash Team, and Founder and President of Green Speaking. Continue reading →

Taking place Friday, July 24, Saturday, July 25, and Sunday, July 26 in St. Catharines, Niagara (See Details Below)

An Invite To All from Matter of Black in St. Catharines, Niagara

Posted July 23^rd, 2026 on Niagara At Large

St. Catharines, ON – Matter of Black invites the community to celebrate Emancipation Day STC 2026, a weekend of events taking place July 24, July 25, and July 26, bringing together comedy, history, culture, music and community while honouring the legacy of emancipation and the enduring contributions of African, Caribbean and Black communities in Niagara.

This year’s celebration begins with an exciting new partnership between Matter of Black and Spotlight Comedy, kicking off the weekend with an evening of laughter before commemorating the 175th anniversary of (the great Underground Railroad heroine) Harriet Tubman’s arrival in St. Catharines. Continue reading →

For whatever reason, Canada is a convenient punching back from the U.S. Trump administration

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

Posted July 22nd, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Donald Trump (left) and his sychophant of an ambassador to Canada, Pete Hoeksrat

And if the threats and insults are not coming from Trump himself, they are coming from Pete Hoekstra, the ambassador he has shipped up to Ottawa to toe the line for him in our country.

Earlier on in his time here, Hoekstra responded to expressions of anger from Canadians to the taunt from Trump that our country should become a “51^st state” with a figurative wave of his hand and the suggestion that we should just “move on” and get over it.

In the wake of Trump’s more recent threats that Canada should be punished with more crippling  tariffs because of the smoke drifting down in to the country he rules like a 17^th century king from wildfires up north, Hoekstra could hardly wait to echo his master’s threat with the line; “Canada must answer for wildlife smoke.”

What I would like to know is who is going to answer for the smoke coming out of Hoekstra’s mouth and how much more of this Trump-groveling creep do we have to take? Continue reading →

Deal will break down interprovincial trade barriers for alcoholic beverages, improving consumer choice and opening up new markets to Canadian manufacturers

“In the face of President Trump’s latest tariffs, it’s more important than ever that Team Canada work together to build a more united, resilient and self-reliant Canadian economy.”            – Ontario Premier Doug Ford. “

News from the Ontario Government

Posted July 22^nd, 2026 on Niagara At Large

CHARLOTTETOWN, PEI — This past July 21^st, 2026, Premier Doug Ford along with premiers of eight other Canadian provinces — British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and Newfoundland and Labrador — signed a historic agreement that will allow direct-to-consumer (DTC) sales of alcoholic beverages between their individual jurisdictions for personal use.

This new agreement is building a more open and united Canadian economy by removing a major trade barrier within Canada. It was co-led by Ontario and Saskatchewan and reflects collaboration among all participating jurisdictions, building on the commitments made in the 2025 Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on DTC sales of alcoholic beverages and is a major part of Ontario’s plan to remove barriers to free and open trade between Canadian provinces and territories. Negotiations on the agreement concluded earlier this year. Continue reading →

This Coming Saturday, July 25^th, from 11 A.M. To Noon In Front of the Pen Centre Mall at the Corner of Glendale and Tremont Drive in St. Catharines

 Posted July 22^nd, 2026 on Niagara At Large

A ‘Fight Ford’ rally of Niagara citizens  this past spring in front of the Pen Centre shopping mall. photo by Emily Spanton

Once every month since this past winter, even through cold, wet, not-very-pleasant weather, several hundred  citizens each time have gathered together from across Niagara – home-made signs in hand – to demonstrate their opposition to Ford’s policies and practices on every issue from health care, education, the environment, to his government’s ongoing disassembling of our democratic institutions at the municipal level, and more.

All of us across Niagara are invited to come join them again as similar rallies are held in communities across Ontario this coming July 25th.

Come out and join your fellow citizens across the region and show Ford and his government and those local parties in and out of local government who support them that, to use the line in an old movie, “we are mad as hell and we are not going to take it any more.”

NIAGARA AT LARGE Encourages You To Join The Conversation By Sharing Your Views On This Post In The Space  Below and by sharing the Niagara At Large site at www.niagaraatlarge.com with all of your friends and associates.

Visit us every day on www.niagaraat.arge.com and on Doug Draper’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/doug.draper.180 and encourage everyone else you know to do the same. Let’s build media outlets for local news and commentary!

Thanks To Trump And His Millions Of Supporters, Any Friendship We Had With The United States Is Over!

A Commentary by Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper

Posted  July 21st, 2026 on Niagara At Large

“They (Canadians) need us to survive,” declared a puffed up Donald Trump shortly after he announced plans this week to hit Canada with even more punishing tariffs on a broad number of goods Canadian businesses sell to the United States.

“Without the United States,” tough-guy Trump continued, “there is no way they (Canadians) can survive.”

With that kind of schoolyard bully manner of talk, along with all of Trump’s previously threats to make Canada a “51^st state,” aimed at a country that long considered the U.S. a friendly, reliable neighbour, I think we Canadians need to double down on our determination to  make a go of it without Trump and the tens-of-millions of Americans he represents, and do our best to build a stronger bond with Europe and other regions around the world. Continue reading →

“There is a growing movement geared towards embracing nearby nature: your backyard, your local trail or the park down the street. … We’re starting to authentically reconnect with unplugged experiences and see first-hand that life is better without the constant sounds, badges, notifications and apps stealing attention and directing it to things that largely don’t matter.”                                                                                                         – Brock University Associate Professor of Recreation and Leisure Studies Garrett Hutson

A Report from Brock University in Niagara, Ontario

Posted July 21^st, 2026 on Niagara At Large

There’s a popular activity making its way onto Canadians’ to-do lists this summer: unplugging outdoors.

In a world saturated by screen time and technology, more people are putting down their devices and spending time outside, says Brock University Associate Professor of Recreation and Leisure Studies Garrett Hutson.

“There is a growing movement geared towards embracing nearby nature: your backyard, your local trail or the park down the street,” he says. Continue reading →

Breaking News and Commentary by Doug Draper on Niagara At Large

July 20^th, 2026, 2026

Two of the 30 surviving beluga whales  held in captivity at the now-shuttered Marineland amusement park in Niagara Falls, Ontario are now in the process of being moved to parks in the United States and Spain.

After many months of hand-wringing over the fate of 30 remaining beluga whales and four dolphins at the defunct Marineland amusement park in Niagara Falls, park operators have begun the delicate process of transporting them to marine parks in the United States and Spain, according to newly released reports.

The move draws an end to efforts by animal advocacy groups across Canada to have the whales re-located to a marine mammal sanctuary which is still under construction off the shores of Nova Scotia.

But on the positive side, the whales and dolphins will at least not be euthanized, which was the threat Marineland representatives first made last year after claiming that they could no longer afford to look after them after so many years of exploiting them for profit. Continue reading →

We Should Be Going For Gold In Renewables, Emergency Preparedness, And Protecting Nature

A Message from the Green Party of Canada

Posted July 20th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Toronto and Niagara Falls this past week when the air quality from smoke drifting in was at its worst

First place doesn’t always mean you win.

Toronto (and the Niagara area) had the dubious honour of having the highest air quality index in the world last Wednesday, July, 15th, 2026. In other words, it had the worst, most polluted air.

This isn’t the kind of ‘award’ communities want. But global temperatures are continuing to rise as humans burn fossil fuels. And the risk of dangerous smoke and wildfires is rising along with it.

That is, unless we take action now. Continue reading →

See Details for this Nature Walk Below 

An Invite t to All from the Niagara Falls Nature Club 

Posted July 20^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

A small porton of Gonder’s Flats, adjacent to the Niagara River in Fort Erie, Niagara

The Niagara Falls Nature Club welcomes you to participate in leisurely walks as we enjoy the flora and fauna of Niagara. The walks are rated from 1 to 10: 1 is easy and 10 is strenuous.

For more information or if you have any questions, please get in touch! 

• DATE: Wednesday July 22nd 2026TIME: 7:00PM
• LOCATION: Gonder’s Flats, Fort Erie
• DIFFICULTY RATING:  2/10 
• DESCRIPTION: This wetland adjacent to the Niagara River has undergone restoration of the shoreline habitat that will include wildlife habitat conservation work, trail upgrades and educational signage. 2919 Niagara Parkway, Fort Erie (Townline Rd & Niagara River Parkway) (free parking!) 

Continue reading →

But Those Wildfires In Northwestern Ontario Are Still Burning & Spewing Out Smoke With A Vengeance

A Brief Update from Environment Canada

Posted July 19th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

For the moment, at least, Niagara’s air quality is now down in the low risk range so enjoy some time outdoors.

Air quality in St. Catharines/Niagara today is at a Low Risk level, with an Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) of 2 to 3. The air is ideal for all outdoor activities, as the special air quality alerts caused by northwestern Ontario forest fire smoke have been lifted.

For the most up-to-date, hyper-local monitoring data throughout the day, you can check the live tracking on the Environment Canada St. Catharines AQHI page or view the provincial readings via Air Quality Ontario.

NIAGARA AT LARGE Encourages You To Join The Conversation By Sharing Your Views On This Post In The Space  Below and by sharing the Niagara At Large site at www.niagaraatlarge.com with all of your friends and associates.

Visit us every day on www.niagaraat.arge.com and on Doug Draper’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/doug.draper.180 and encourage everyone else you know to do the same. Let’s build media outlets for local news and commentary!

‘Big Oil’s obscene profits keep growing while the costs of climate disasters are shouldered by the rest of us.’

A News Release from the public interest group Canadians for Tax Fairness

Posted July 18^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Dozens of wildfires are raging across Canada, destroying communities, forcing families from their homes, and blanketing cities like Toronto with some of the worst air quality in the world.

Meanwhile, as Canadians choke on wildfire smoke and face skyrocketing costs, Big Oil keeps cashing in.

If you’ve followed our work recently, you know Canada’s largest fossil fuel companies are majority foreign-owned —and 60% owned by Americans. If current trends continue, Big Oil and its U.S. investors are on track to collect as much as $90 billion in windfall profits by the end of 2026. Continue reading →

“A s our air becomes unbreathable, Prime Minister Carney boasts about the “lasting benefits” of expanding fossil fuel production and claims that previous climate targets are “too expensive” to meet while allocating billions of public dollars for pipelines.”  

A Message from Liisa Schofield, Director of Organizing, Canada’s New Democratic Party 

Posted July 17th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Earlier this week, I woke up in Toronto to a red sun, smoky skies and a burning at the back of my throat.

As I was walking my son to camp, wearing facemasks we dug out of the drawer, he said to me “I just wish we had the sky back”.

It is heartbreaking to explain the climate catastrophe to our kids. 

Our hearts and solidarity are with the people of Collins, Namaygoosisagagun First Nation which has been burned beyond recognition with people narrowly escaping by boat. Armstrong, Whitesand First Nation, and many others are now being evacuated as well.  Too many of our neighbours are struggling to breathe. Continue reading →

‘Peter Asher: Everywhere Man’, Playing At the Film House In Downtown St. Catharines, Niagara  on Tuesday, July 21st At 2 P.M.

A Brief One from Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper

Posted July 17^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

If you are a lover of music going back to the 1960s and also enjoy watching film documentaries about key figures in the world of music going back to that time, I highly recommend this  one focusing on the musical career of Peter Asher, who began as a performer (of singing duo Peter & Gordon fame) in the 1960s and who went on the produce best-selling records for James Taylor, Linda Ronstadt and other great artists from the 1970s and on.

And to all of you younger people out there, if you love great music, you don’t have to be a member of the baby boomer generation to dig this film.

I want to stress that I am not getting a penny from the Film House for promoting the screening of this film and I don’t mind giving the Film House a plug every once in a while. We are lucky to have this great independent film theatre here and it certainly deserves as much support as we can give it – Doug Draper

A Film House presentation
Peter Asher: Everywhere Man

Tuesday, July 21nd, 2026, 2 P.M.

US, UK, 2025. Directed by Daniel Geller & Dayna Goldfine. 118 min. NR. Starring: Peter Asher, Eric Idle, Jane Asher 

Peter Asher’s extraordinary life has intersected with some of the greatest artists and musical moments of the last six decades. A child actor who became a pop star and then a manager and producer to the likes of James Taylor and Linda Ronstadt, he is a Zelig-like figure who remains a vital creative force to this day. Featuring interviews with Paul McCartney, Carole King, and many more.  Continue reading →

An Update By City of St. Catharines on its response to Air Quality Concerns

Posted July 17^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Outdoor City programs will also resume as scheduled at 3 p.m. July 17, including:

•   *   The Lakeside Park Carousel
•   *   City outdoor swimming lessons and aquatics programs
•   *   City outdoor recreation programs
•   *   Permits for outdoor spaces

Residents are encouraged to monitor weather and air quality reports and use City outdoor pools and sports fields at their own discretion.

The City will continue to monitor the situation and respond as needed.

A Footnote from Niagara At Large – As of the posting, during the noon hour of July 17th,  of this update from the City of St. Catharines, air quality alerts from Environment Canada still remain in place, so to everyone out there, I would say use your own judgement and keep safe.

NIAGARA AT LARGE Encourages You To Join The Conversation By Sharing Your Views On This Post In The Space  Below and by sharing the Niagara At Large site at www.niagaraatlarge.com with all of your friends and associates.

Visit us every day on www.niagaraat.arge.com and on Doug Draper’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/doug.draper.180 and encourage everyone else you know to do the same. Let’s build media outlets for local news and commentary!

A Public Service Announcement from the Town of Lincoln

Posted July 16^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Lincoln, ON –– Please be advised that the Allan F. Gretsinger and Jordan Lions outdoor pools are closed as of 3 p.m. Wednesday, July 15, 2026 (and forward) due to poor air quality.

The pools will remain closed until the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) lowers from the current very high health risk to a moderate health risk. Continue reading →

A Statement from Mat Siscoe

Posted July 16^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

St. Catharines Mayor Mat Siscoe

ST. CATHARINES, ON. — “Today (this July 16^th) I’m proud to announce that I’ve filed my nomination papers for re-election as Mayor of St. Catharines for another four years.

“At the start of my first term we laid out an ambitious agenda with the goal of establishing a strong foundation for the future of our community.

“Collectively, we met those goals. Our community has faced adversity, overcome significant challenges, and celebrated many successes in four short years. As we look ahead to the future, I have a vision that will build upon the foundation to create an even stronger community where we can all thrive – together. Continue reading →

From the Town of Fort Erie in Niagara, Ontario

Posted July 16^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Popular Bay Beach in Town of Fort Erie, temporarily closed due to poor air quality.

Due to poor air quality caused by wildfire smoke, the Town of Fort Erie has temporarily closed or cancelled the following programs and facilities for today (Thursday, July 16) until further notice:

• Bay Beach is closed.
  • Splash pads are closed.
  • The Tennis Club is closed.
  • Recreation programs are cancelled.
  • The Supper Market scheduled for this evening has been cancelled.

The Town will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates as they become available. Continue reading →

So You Say You Still Don’t Believe We Are In A Climate Crisis?

Posted by Niagara At Large reporter/publisher Doug Draper

July 16th, 2026

Smoke blanketing Lady Liberty in New York during an earlier episode of smoke drifting in from Canadian wildfires in 2023

In case we need reminding of how wide-ranging the impacts of climate-related wildfires can be – and at least some of us out there seem to need reminding – the smoke from wildfires in northern Ontario and other regions of Canada has now drifted as far away as New York City, Boston and Washington, D.C where the quality of the air is being declared “hazardous.”

One report from ABC News  begins as follows –

‘Canadian wildfire smoke descends on parts of US, including New York City

‘More than 830 wildfires were burning in Canada, along with more than a dozen in northern Minnesota, forcing mandatory evacuations and spreading unhealthy smoke down to the Lower 48. A cloudy orange haze was seen blanketing the spires of buildings that make up New York City’s iconic skyline on Wednesday, with poor air quality expected to continue through Thursday.’ Continue reading →

A Notice to Public from the City of St. Catharines

Posted July 16^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Due to the Air Quality Warning issued by Environment Canada, the City is closing its outdoor pools and sports fields and cancelling its outdoor activities and events, including:

• City outdoor swimming lessons and aquatic programs
• The Lakeside Park Carousel
• City outdoor recreation programs
• Permits for outdoor spaces

The City welcomes anyone looking to beat the heat to the St. Catharines Kiwanis Aquatics Centre and other select City facilities. City splash pads will remain open until 9 p.m. The St. Catharines Museum and Welland Canals Centre is open until 8 p.m. tonight.

To read a related post on this air quality crisis, click on – https://niagaraatlarge.com/2026/07/15/environment-canada-issues-high-risk-air-quality-alert-for-niagara-region/ 

NIAGARA AT LARGE Encourages You To Join The Conversation By Sharing Your Views On This Post In The Space  Below and by sharing the Niagara At Large site at www.niagaraatlarge.com with all of your friends and associates.

Visit us every day on www.niagaraat.arge.com and on Doug Draper’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/doug.draper.180 and encourage everyone else you know to do the same. Let’s build media outlets for local news and commentary!

“It (this oil pipline) would add to the pollution burden facing local communities while fuelling the climate conditions that make dangerous wildfire-smoke days like today more frequent and severe.”

A Statement by Emily Hunter, Senior Program Manager, Ontario Climate, Environmental Defence

Posted July 15^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Toronto – It is darkly ironic that on a day when wildfire smoke turned Ontario’s sky orange and Toronto ranked among the worst cities in the world for air quality, the Ontario government (of Premier Doug Ford) chose to make a sales pitch for more oil refining and a massive new pipeline.

It’s clear that the provincial government is completely out of touch with the climate crisis unfolding outside our windows.

Continue reading →

A Commentary by Niagara At Large publisher/reporter Doug Draper

Posted July 15th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

It was earlier this July when I had someone doing some work on the outside of my house.

Within a matter of minutes of him beginning that work, it grew menacingly  dark and a sudden violent windstorm set in.

That someone looked up at the skies and said; “My God. What is that?”

I replied; “I think they call it climate change,” to which he responded; “I don’t believe in climate change.” Continue reading →

A Brief Tribute from a life-long fan, Doug Draper

Posted July 15^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

That Stone Poneys album with a young, upcoming Linda Ronstadt featured on the cover.

Way back in 1968, when I was still a kid in grade school, I went to one of my favourite record stores and spotted an album with a picture of this beautiful  young lady with big brown eyes on the cover.

It that made my teenage heart melt.

The album was by a group called Stone Poneys and the young lady was Linda Ronstadt who had a big hit with the group that year called ‘Different Drum’.

Linda soon went on to pursue a solo career with records that sold tens-of-millions and earned her an amazing 11 Grammy Awards and so many other honours, including induction in to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

As for this guy, I still love her and my wife has had to get used to it.

And I can’t believe  that Linda Ronstadt has turned 80 today, but our journey on this earth is shorter than we want it to be and here we are.

I will leave you with one of her first great solo hits, from 1970, called ‘Long, Long Time.’ You will enjoy hearing and watching her perform it by clicking on the screen immediately below –

• Have a Great 80^th Birthday Linda. Doug Draper

NIAGARA AT LARGE Encourages You To Join The Conversation By Sharing Your Views On This Post In The Space  Below and by sharing the Niagara At Large site at www.niagaraatlarge.com with all of your friends and associates.

Visit us every day on www.niagaraat.arge.com and on Doug Draper’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/doug.draper.180 and encourage everyone else you know to do the same. Let’s build media outlets for local news and commentary!

Due to smoke from distant wildfires, air quality in Niagara area & throughout the Greater Toronto Area is now ranked ‘worst in the world’

A Public Warning from Environment Canada

Posted July 15^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

• Orange Warning – Air Quality

• Impact Level: High

• Forecast Confidence: High

Air quality is expected to deteriorate later today (this July 15th, 2026) as smoke from wildfires in northwestern Ontario moves into the area.

Poor air quality may persist into Friday.

During heavy smoke conditions, everyone’s health is at risk regardless of their age or health status. Limit time outdoors. Reschedule or cancel outdoor sports, activities and events. You may experience mild and common symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches or a mild cough. Continue reading →

See Details for Next Walk Below

An Invited To All from the Niagara Falls Nature Club

Posted July 14th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

WEDNESDAY WEEKLY WALKS SEASON IS BACK!

WE INVITE YOU TO JOIN US FOR OUR NEXT OUTING!

The Niagara Falls Nature Club welcomes you to participate in leisurely walks as we enjoy the flora and fauna of Niagara. The walks are rated from 1 to 10: 1 is easy and 10 is strenuous. For more information or if you have any questions, please get in touch!

DATE: Wednesday July 15th 2026
TIME: 7:00PM
LOCATION: Heartland Forest, Niagara Falls
DIFFICULTY RATING:  1/10

DESCRIPTION: Join us for an easy walk while discovering the flora and fauna. We’ll keep an eye out for butterflies as well. They are graciously keeping the park open late for us so we can enjoy our evening. Meet at the front of the visitor Centre. Free parking!

8215 Heartland Forest Rd, Niagara Falls, ON L2H 0L5 Continue reading →

Students Will Benefit from New, Modern Classrooms that Prepare Them for Good-Paying Stable Careers

“We are building the schools students need, and we are making sure they get built quickly and on schedule.”                                          – Paul Calandra, Ontario Minister of Education

NEWS from the Government of Ontario

Posted July 14th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Paul Calandra, Ontario Minister of Education

THOROLD – The Ontario government is continuing to deliver on its plan to protect Ontario and ensure students have access to modern classrooms by investing $1.6 billion in seventy-nine school construction projects across Ontario. 

The investments will support growing communities by creating over 29,000 new student spaces and over 1,900 licensed child care spaces so students have the modern learning spaces they need to succeed in their studies and prepare for in-demand careers.

In Niagara, the province is investing $28.1 million to build a new school in Thorold and $4.5 million to expand Saint Michael Catholic High School in Niagara Falls, creating more student spaces and child care spaces in growing communities.  Continue reading →

Posted by Doug Draper on Niagara At Large

July 13thl 2026, 2026

George Carlin – Where are you when we need you.

I don’t know how many times in this age of Trump that I have said or I have heard others say; “Too bad George Carlin isn’t isn’t here. We sure could use him now.”

There is no doubt that the late, great comedian/social critic – so fearless, insightful and outspoken, could have had a field day with what is going on in this mad, mad world we are living in these days.

Here are just a few words from George that are more relevant now than they were when he first said them many years ago –

And those of us living in Canada find ourselves in the unfortunate situation of sitting in the row right behind. – Doug Draper

NIAGARA AT LARGE Encourages You To Join The Conversation By Sharing Your Views On This Post In The Space  Below and by sharing the Niagara At Large site at www.niagaraatlarge.com with all of your friends and associates.

Visit us every day on www.niagaraat.arge.com and on Doug Draper’s Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/doug.draper.180 and encourage everyone else you know to do the same. Let’s build media outlets for local news and commentary!

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

Posted July 10^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

I would bet every drop of water rushing over the Horseshoe Falls every single second of the day that there was at least one Niagara Parks Commission representative at the town hall Niagara Falls NDP MPP Wayne Gates hosted this past Monday, July 6^th at the Club Italia to address Doug Ford’s controversial plan to have a giant ferris wheel built on Queen Victoria Park lands near the brink of the Horseshoe Falls.

One amazing turn out at a town hall. photo courtesy of the Constitiuency Office of Niagara Falls MPP Wayne Gates

And if I am right, I am also willing to bet that this same Niagara Parks representative would have gone right back and told the Doug Ford-appointed Chair of Niagara Park’s board, Graham Coveney, something like; “Wow, you should have seen it. There were more than 700, if not a thousand people packing that town hall meeting and they don’t want a huge ferris wheel built on greenspace near the Falls. …

“And they are angry as all hell that Niagara Parks has not consulted with the public on this grotesque plan and that it has not already come out and made it clear to Ford that it violates everything the Parks Commission is supposed to be standing for since its founding in 1885 – to protect and preserve the Falls and the natural beauty of the greenspace along the Niagara River corridor.” Continue reading →

“Our government is making historic investments in Ontario’s shipbuilding industry to ensure the sector’s long-term prosperity and generate good-paying jobs that drive economic growth for years to come.”                                                                                            – Prabmeet Sarkaria, Ontario Minister of Transportation

News from the Government of Ontario

Posted July 10^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

Port Weller Dry Docks of Ontario Shipyards in St. Catharines

ST. CATHARINES, Ontario –  Earlier this week, Hon. Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario, was in St. Catharines to announce that the Ontario government is investing over $90 million through the Ontario Shipbuilding Grant Program to increase capacity in the province’s shipbuilding industry as part of its plan to protect Ontario.

The investment will help meet the growing demand for Ontario-made vessels, help Ontario shipbuilders support Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy and boost the economic competitiveness of Ontario’s shipbuilding and its supply chain while creating thousands of good-paying jobs across the marine sector. Continue reading →

“Migrant workers have been coming to Niagara for sixty years. The Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program began here in 1966. In six decades, Canada, Ontario and Niagara have used this program to drive the growth of large-scale farms and profits. Yet in all that time they have not built the road infrastructure, the transit, or the protections that would keep workers safe.”

A Call-Out from the Migrant Workers Alliance for Change

Posted July 9^th, 2026 on Niagara At Large

NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE — The Migrant Workers Alliance for Change has launched a petition, also endorsed by the Niagara Community Legal Clinic, demanding a response to the death of Sinhue Garcia, a migrant farmworker killed while cycling home in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

The petition, at migrantworkersalliance.org/sinhue, calls on local MPPs, MP, the provincial and federal government, and every councilor and candidate in the town’s October municipal election, to unite to take action. Two weeks since Sinhue’s death, not one elected official at any level of government has publicly said a word. Continue reading →